@article {pmid40574575, year = {2025}, author = {Krackow, E and Rashed, J and Thompson, I}, title = {Does Hypnosis Aid Memory Retrieval?: A Review of Steven Jay Lynn's Research.}, journal = {The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-10}, doi = {10.1080/00207144.2025.2508410}, pmid = {40574575}, issn = {1744-5183}, abstract = {Steven Jay Lynn was one of the most prolific clinical psychologists who made major contributions to the scientific literature in numerous areas, including in the area of hypnosis and memory. We review this work, limited to studies appearing in empirical journals, with special emphasis on research methodology. Hypnosis did not enhance accurate recall in any study and in some cases impeded recall. In numerous studies, hypnosis increased recall of never-experienced events; this recall persisted over time, and participants were at least moderately confident in their recall of these never-experienced events. We discuss the branching off of this work into the courts and psychotherapy.}, }
@article {pmid40573526, year = {2025}, author = {Yang, Z and Yu, J and Liu, M and Peng, T and Wang, H}, title = {A Method for Predicting Trajectories of Concealed Targets via a Hybrid Decomposition and State Prediction Framework.}, journal = {Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {25}, number = {12}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/s25123639}, pmid = {40573526}, issn = {1424-8220}, abstract = {Accurate trajectory prediction of concealed targets in complex, interference-laden environments present a formidable challenge for millimeter-wave sensor tracking systems. To address this, we propose a state-of-the-art autonomous prediction framework that integrates an Improved Sequential Variational Mode Decomposition (ISVMD) algorithm with an Extreme Learning Machine (ELM), synergistically optimized by the novel Red-billed Blue Magpie Optimizer (RBMO). The ISVMD enhances signal reconstruction by transforming noisy target echo signals into robust feature sequences, effectively mitigating the impacts of environmental disturbances and intentional concealment. Subsequently, the RBMO-optimized ELM leverages these feature sequences to predict the future trajectories of concealed targets with high precision. The RBMO further refines critical parameters within the ISVMD-ELM pipeline, ensuring adaptability and computational efficiency across diverse scenarios. Experimental validation using real-world data demonstrates that the RBMO-ISVMD-ELM approach surpasses state-of-the-art algorithms in both accuracy and robustness when predicting the trajectories of concealed ground targets, achieving optimal performance metrics under demanding conditions.}, }
@article {pmid40573437, year = {2025}, author = {Vilibić-Čavlek, T and Barbić, L and Klobučar, A and Vucelja, M and Bogdanić, M and Sabadi, D and Kutleša, M and Gjurašin, B and Stevanović, V and Curman Posavec, M and Bjedov, L and Boljfetić, M and Jozić-Novinc, T and Škara, R and Tomljenović, M and Hruškar, Ž and Al-Mufleh, M and Potočnik-Hunjadi, T and Rončević, I and Savić, V}, title = {Re-Emergence of Usutu Virus and Spreading of West Nile Virus Neuroinvasive Infections During the 2024 Transmission Season in Croatia.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {17}, number = {6}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/v17060846}, pmid = {40573437}, issn = {1999-4915}, support = {NPOO 1//European Union NextGenerationEU project supported by the Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Croatia/ ; 653316//European Virus Archive goes Global (EVAg) project that has received funding from the Europe-an Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme/ ; }, mesh = {Croatia/epidemiology ; Animals ; Humans ; *West Nile Fever/epidemiology/transmission/virology/veterinary ; Horses/virology ; *West Nile virus/genetics/isolation & purification ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; *Flavivirus/genetics/isolation & purification/immunology ; *Flavivirus Infections/epidemiology/transmission/virology/veterinary ; Horse Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; Female ; Seasons ; Male ; Birds/virology ; Phylogeny ; Middle Aged ; Culicidae/virology ; Adult ; Adolescent ; RNA, Viral/genetics ; Young Adult ; Aged ; Immunoglobulin M/blood ; Child ; Mosquito Vectors/virology ; Immunoglobulin G/blood ; }, abstract = {Neuroinvasive arboviruses such as tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), West Nile virus (WNV), Usutu virus (USUV), and Toscana virus (TOSV) have (re-)emerged with increasing incidence and geographic range. We analyzed the epidemiology of arboviral infections in Croatia during the 2024 transmission season. A total of 154 patients with neuroinvasive diseases (NID), 1596 horses, 69 dead birds, and 7726 mosquitoes were tested. Viral RNA was detected using RT-qPCR. IgM/IgG-specific antibodies were detected using commercial ELISA or IFA, with confirmation of cross-reactive samples by virus neutralization test. RT-qPCR-positive samples were Sanger sequenced. Arboviral etiology was confirmed in 33/21.42% of patients with NID. WNV was most frequently detected (17/11.03%), followed by TBEV (10/6.49%), USUV (5/3.24%), and TOSV (1/0.64%). WNV infections were reported in regions previously known as endemic, while in one continental county, WNV was recorded for the first time. USUV infections re-emerged after a six-year absence. In addition to human cases, acute WNV infections were recorded in 11/395 (2.78%) of horses and two dead crows. WNV IgG seropositivity was detected in 276/1168 (23.63%) and TBEV IgG seropositivity in 68/428 (15.88%) horses. None of the tested mosquito pools were positive for WNV and USUV RNA. Phylogenetic analysis showed the circulation of WNV lineage 2 and Usutu Europe 2 lineage. Climate conditions in 2024 in Croatia were classified as extremely warm, which could, at least in part, impact the quite intense arboviral season. The spreading of flaviviruses in Croatia highlights the need for continuous surveillance in humans, animals, and vectors ("One Health").}, }
@article {pmid40572814, year = {2025}, author = {Bayir, MC and Mensur, E}, title = {XGBoost-Based Modeling of Electrocaloric Property: A Bayesian Optimization in BCZT Electroceramics.}, journal = {Materials (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {18}, number = {12}, pages = {}, pmid = {40572814}, issn = {1996-1944}, support = {FA9550-21-2-0296//United States Air Force Office of Scientific Research/ ; }, abstract = {Electrocaloric materials, which exhibit adiabatic temperature change under an applied electric field, are promising for solid-state cooling technologies. In this study, the electrocaloric response of lead-free BaxCa1-xZryTi1-yO3 (BCZT) ceramics was modeled to investigate the effects of composition, processing, and measurement conditions on performance. A high-accuracy XGBoost regression model (R[2] = 0.99, MAE = 0.02 °C) was developed using a dataset of 2188 literature-derived data points to predict and design the electrocaloric response of BCZT ceramics. The feature space incorporated compositional ratios, processing parameters, measurement settings, and atomic-level Magpie descriptors, along with Curie temperature to account for phase-transition behavior. Feature importance analysis revealed that electric field, measurement temperature, and proximity to the Curie point are the most critical factors influencing ΔTEC. Bayesian optimization was applied to navigate the design space and identify performance maxima under unconstrained and realistic constraints, offering valuable insights into the nonlinear interactions governing electrocaloric performance. Under room temperature and moderate-field conditions (24 °C, 40 kV/cm), the optimized ΔTEC achieved a value of 1.03 °C for Ba0.85Ca0.15Zr0.40Ti0.60, to be processed at 1090 °C for 3 h during calcination, 1300 °C for 2 h during sintering. By integrating experimental insight with machine learning and optimization, this study offers a refined, interpretable framework for accelerating the design of high-performance electrocaloric ceramics while reducing the experimental workload.}, }
@article {pmid40572647, year = {2025}, author = {Jin, Y and Li, N and Chen, Z and Zeng, K and Wang, J and Sheng, A and Fu, H and Hu, L and Mao, J}, title = {Clinical Characteristics and Genetic Variants in Children with PAX2 Mutation-Associated Disorders.}, journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)}, volume = {61}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {40572647}, issn = {1648-9144}, support = {2022YFC2705103//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 2022YFC2705100//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; LTGD24H050002//Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *PAX2 Transcription Factor/genetics/analysis ; Female ; Male ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Infant ; Mutation/genetics ; Phenotype ; Genetic Variation/genetics ; Genotype ; }, abstract = {Background and Objectives: PAX2 serves as a critical transcription factor integral to the process of embryogenesis. Variations in the PAX2 gene could result in the aberrant development of numerous organs. Despite the identification of numerous mutations within the PAX2 gene, the correlation between specific genotypes has yet to be fully clarified. The objective of this study was to examine the clinical phenotypes and genotypes associated with PAX2 mutation-induced disorders in pediatric patients of Chinese descent. The aim of our study was to forecast the pathogenic potential of these genetic mutations and to ascertain possible correlations between genotypic variations and the clinical manifestations of disorders linked to PAX2 mutations. Materials and Methods: We recruited 14 pediatric subjects with PAX2 mutations, meticulously examining the clinical characteristics and genetic alterations present in these individuals. Computational techniques were utilized to evaluate the pathogenicity, stability, and biophysical characteristics. A range of computational tools were employed for this assessment, including PredictSNP, MAGPIE, iStable, Align GVGD, ConSurf, and SNP effect. Results: The age at onset ranged from prenatal to 12 years. Five patients progressed to end-stage renal disease. Proteinuria and bilateral renal hypoplasia were observed in 92% of cases. Ocular and auditory abnormalities were also noted. We identified eleven different PAX2 mutations, including five novel variants not previously reported in the literature. We predicted that all mutations, with the exception of p.F27-L33 del and N188S, exhibited high pathogenicity scores. In particular, R117P and R140W are strongly associated with disease pathogenicity and are likely to cause more significant damage than other gene mutants. Conclusions: This study expands the mutational and phenotypic spectrum of PAX2-related disorders in the pediatric population. The identification of five novel variants enhances our understanding of the genetic basis of these conditions. Despite recurrent mutations, marked phenotypic heterogeneity persists, underscoring the need for further research.}, }
@article {pmid40566893, year = {2025}, author = {Çelik, S and Arslan, L and Özarslan, C and Mart, M}, title = {Psychometric Properties of the Social Attribution Task and Its Relationship With Cognitive Functions.}, journal = {Psychiatry investigation}, volume = {22}, number = {6}, pages = {687-698}, pmid = {40566893}, issn = {1738-3684}, support = {1919B012206375//TUBITAK 2209-A program project/ ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The Social Attribution Task-Multiple Choice (SAT-MC) battery is one of tests used to evaluate social cognitive capacity. This study aimed to examine the reliability and validity of the SAT-MC for the first time in healthy adults and in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, then to investigate the effect on SAT-MC performance of clinical variables in schizophrenia patients.<br><br>METHODS: The study included 207 volunteers; 157 healthy adults, and 50 individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. All the study participants were applied with the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices Test (RSPM), the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test (RMET), and the SAT-MC.<br><br>RESULTS: The results of the analyses showed that the SAT-MC had content and criteria validity in both the individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia and in the healthy control group. Internal consistency of test was calculated as McDonald's omega coefficient 0.81, and the test-retest reliability was found to be 0.75. Hierarchical multivariate regression analysis showed a predictive effect of RSPM and RMET on the SAT points.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results of this study demonstrated that SAT was valid and reliable in evaluating social attribution skills in both a healthy and a schizophrenia sample group. Social attribution skill was found to be related to the perceptual reasoning and abstract thinking skills of neurocognition. The social cognition dimension was determined to be related to the theory of mind skills. Insufficient social attribution skills, seen especially in schizophrenia patients, can lead to social withdrawal and isolation by disrupting interactions and relationships with others.}, }
@article {pmid40563936, year = {2025}, author = {Gryz, J and Krauze-Gryz, D and Brach, M}, title = {Wildfire-Driven Shifts in Bird and Red Fox Activity: A Case Study from Biebrza National Park.}, journal = {Biology}, volume = {14}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {40563936}, issn = {2079-7737}, support = {This work was supported by the Forest Fund from the State Forests under contract number EZ.0290.1.24.2020 with the Biebrza National Park.//Polsih State Forests/ ; }, abstract = {Fires of natural or anthropogenic origin shape some ecosystems on Earth; this disturbance can maintain the landscape and influence many processes like vegetation structure, carbon, and hydrological cycle, climate, and others [...].}, }
@article {pmid40561730, year = {2025}, author = {Payne, H}, title = {G.G. Simpson's changing attitude towards quantum evolution.}, journal = {Studies in history and philosophy of science}, volume = {112}, number = {}, pages = {60-69}, doi = {10.1016/j.shpsa.2025.06.007}, pmid = {40561730}, issn = {0039-3681}, abstract = {This paper conducts a study of the published responses to a key process - quantum evolution - in G.G. Simpson's paleontological masterpiece Tempo and Mode in Evolution (1944), with the primary goal of revealing the reasons for Simpson's changed views, as indicated in his next book Major Features of Evolution (1953), on the importance of quantum evolution. I argue that the primary force that drove this change was not pressure from other leading synthesis thinkers like Mayr and Dobzhansky but rather empirical paleontological considerations. I consider the implications this has for the supposed hardening of the synthesis as defended by Stephen Jay Gould and for our understanding of the status of paleontology in the post-synthesis period. I claim that paleontology's secondary status in the immediate post-synthesis period resulted from the internal workings of paleontology and not merely pressures from allied biological disciplines.}, }
@article {pmid40559580, year = {2025}, author = {Gherman, CM and Balea, A and Györke, A and Kalmár, Z and Ionică, AM and Villena, I and Spano, F and de Craeye, S and Cozma, V}, title = {Prevalence and Toxoplasma gondii Genotypes Circulating in Five Wild Corvid Species from Romania.}, journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {14}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {40559580}, issn = {2076-0817}, mesh = {*Toxoplasma/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/classification ; Romania/epidemiology ; Animals ; *Genotype ; *Toxoplasmosis, Animal/epidemiology/parasitology ; Prevalence ; DNA, Protozoan/genetics ; Antibodies, Protozoan/blood ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; *Bird Diseases/parasitology/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {The apicomplexan parasite Toxoplasma gondii can potentially infect all warm-blooded animals, including birds, which, due to their high dispersal capabilities, are considered a significant candidate group of sentinel animals that reveal environmental contamination with this protozoan. In the present study, the serologic and molecular prevalences of T. gondii infection were determined in 333 corvids from Romania. Paired meat juice (n = 333) and heart samples (n = 244) were collected and analyzed using the modified agglutination test for antibodies, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for DNA, and SAG2 molecular marker sequencing for genotyping. The overall T. gondii antibodies prevalence was 19.5%, with 48.1% infected jackdaws, 72.8% rooks, 89.7% hooded crows, 77.5% magpies, and 42.9% jays. Of 244 heart samples analyzed with PCR amplification, only 3 (1.2%) resulted positive and were shown to belong to genotype III through the sequencing of the SAG2 amplicon. This is the first extensive study on T. gondii in crows from Romania.}, }
@article {pmid40559547, year = {2025}, author = {Garcia, YLNL and Gomes, AJC and Neto, GG and Ando, NF and Rodrigues, CS and Cesario, RA and Domit, C and Lima, FH and Ferreira, HL and Araújo, JP and Silva, BLD and Spilki, FR and Thomazelli, LM and Gamon, THM and Assis, IB and Durigon, EL and Oliveira, DBL and Costa, VGD and Calmon, MF and Rahal, P}, title = {Potential New Avian Species as Carriers of Diverse Circoviruses.}, journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {14}, number = {6}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/pathogens14060540}, pmid = {40559547}, issn = {2076-0817}, support = {88887.805202/2023-00//Coordena&#xe7;&#xe3;o de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de N&#xed;vel Superior/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Circovirus/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/classification ; *Circoviridae Infections/veterinary/virology/epidemiology/transmission ; *Birds/virology ; Brazil/epidemiology ; *Bird Diseases/virology/epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; *Carrier State/virology/veterinary ; }, abstract = {Avian species pose risks for transmitting viruses, including avian circoviruses, that could be a threat for conservation and introduction into commercial flocks. This study investigated the presence of circovirus in 81 avian species from different regions of Brazil, including the northwest region of São Paulo and the coast of Paraná. Blood samples and oropharyngeal, cloacal, and other organ swabs were collected. The samples were extracted and screened using nested PCR for the replicase gene. In positive cases, the samples were sequenced. Regarding the results, a total of 1528 swab samples were collected from 601 birds, of which 24 (4%, 95% CI: 2.4-5.6) tested positive for various circovirus subtypes. Most positive birds (92%, 22/24) were from the northwest region of São Paulo, mainly from the city of São José do Rio Preto (54%, 12/22). The study also identified the presence of circovirus subtypes in avian families that were not previously described. Furthermore, the presence of raven circovirus in the blood sample of a Nyctibius griseus (potoo), suggests the possibility of a new carrier of the virus. Ultimately, the findings underscore the complexity of the viral ecology of avian circoviruses, highlight the necessity of enhancing future studies, and emphasize the need to support health assessment of wildlife, including marine birds.}, }
@article {pmid40550692, year = {2025}, author = {Liao, DA and Schwarzbach, E and Nieder, A}, title = {Exploring Neural Dynamics in the Auditory Telencephalon of Crows using Functional Ultrasound Imaging.}, journal = {The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1523/JNEUROSCI.0016-25.2025}, pmid = {40550692}, issn = {1529-2401}, abstract = {Crows, renowned for advanced cognitive abilities and vocal communication, rely on intricate auditory systems. While the neuroanatomy of corvid auditory pathways is partially explored, the underlying neurophysiological mechanisms are largely unknown. This study used functional ultrasound imaging (fUSi) to investigate sound-induced cerebral blood volume (CBV) changes in the field L complex of the auditory telencephalon in two female crows. FUSi revealed frequency-specific CBV responses, showing a tonotopic organization within the field L complex, with low frequencies in posterior dorsal region and high frequencies in the anterior ventral region. Machine learning analyses showed fUSi signals could be used to classify sound types accurately, in both awake and anesthetized states. Variable CBV responses to longer sound stimuli suggest a delineation of subregions within the field L complex. Together, these findings highlight the potential of fUSi for providing high-resolution insights into functional systems in corvids, enabling future exploration of experimental task-related cognitive dynamics.Significance Statement This study highlights the use of functional ultrasound imaging (fUSi) to explore auditory processing in crows, marking the first application of this technique in songbirds. By revealing the frequency map of the crow's auditory system and demonstrating the ability of fUSi to classify sound types, the research uncovers the neural dynamics supporting complex auditory functions. The findings suggest conserved auditory organization across avian species and provide insights into the evolution of audio-vocal behaviors in birds. This work paves the way for future studies on the neural underpinnings of cognition and communication in corvids, offering significant implications for comparative neuroscience and neuroethology.}, }
@article {pmid40547778, year = {2025}, author = {Kumar, S and Singh, R and Kampani, S and Gopal, KM}, title = {Policy mandates for Ayush in National Health Policy-2017: Achievements, impediments, and future prospects.}, journal = {Journal of family medicine and primary care}, volume = {14}, number = {5}, pages = {1597-1603}, pmid = {40547778}, issn = {2249-4863}, abstract = {The Ayush sector has seen multidimensional growth in the last 10 years, especially since its inception as the Ministry of Ayush in 2014 from the earlier Department of Ayush. This expansion is evident across various facets of the sector, notably reflected in the allocation within the union budget, the surge in exports of herbal medicines, the proliferation of educational institutions, the establishment of integrated Ayush hospitals, and the integration into the broader public healthcare system. The National Health Policy 2017 (NHP-2017) is the cornerstone guiding document for all health-related matters, including Ayush systems. It advocates for transitioning from a standalone to a comprehensive three-dimensional mainstreaming of Ayush services, emphasising the intricate integration of Ayush into the public healthcare system and adopting Ayush-based promotive and preventive strategies for fostering healthy lifestyles. Significant strides have been undertaken in recent years to realise the mandates outlined in NHP-2017. Noteworthy initiatives include the approval of 12,500 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs - Ayush (erstwhile Health and Wellness Centres), the establishment of co-located Ayush facilities across three tiers of public healthcare, the provision for Ayush academic departments in all new and forthcoming AIIMS establishments, and, more recently, the publication of guidelines related to Indian Public Health Standards for Ayush. However, several challenges persist, such as the skewed distribution of Ayush facilities, the non-inclusion of Ayush packages from the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), and logistical issues about the supply chain of medicines in co-located facilities. Addressing these challenges is imperative for achieving a seamless integration of Ayush systems into the mainstream public healthcare framework and fulfilling the policy mandate designated to Ayush. Such integration holds promise for contributing to realising universal health coverage, national health objectives, and the overarching goal of health for all. This paper delves into the policy imperatives for Ayush within the public health domain as stipulated by NHP-2017, examining its progress, identifying challenges, and proposing potential solutions.}, }
@article {pmid40539864, year = {2025}, author = {Llinares-Segura, J and Alarcón, A and Mendoza, ME and Green, JP and Capafons, A}, title = {The Development and Use of the Valencia Scales of Attitudes and Beliefs Toward Hypnosis.}, journal = {The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-27}, doi = {10.1080/00207144.2025.2507720}, pmid = {40539864}, issn = {1744-5183}, abstract = {The importance of attitudes and beliefs in relation to people's behavior, both in general and within the context of psychological treatment, is undeniable. This is especially true in the field of hypnosis, where misinformation and myths are widespread. In response to a request from, and as a tribute to, Professor Steven Jay Lynn, we summarize the status of the Valencia Scales of Attitudes and Beliefs toward Hypnosis, both the client (VSABH-C) and therapist (VSABH-T) versions. A literature review was conducted in May 2024 across nine databases. The only inclusion criterion was that the studies had to cite and/or use either or both versions of the VSABH scales as a measurement instrument. A total of 73 references were selected and classified into four categories: psychometric analyses, use of the scales, citations, and unpublished references. The findings indicate that the VSABHs are widely used, useful, robust, and versatile scales with international projection, and its 37-item version is recommended. Scholars and practitioners are encouraged to continue the psychometric and applied study of these scales and to undertake adaptation processes in different languages, cultures, and samples, adhering to the guidelines set forth by the International Test Commission (ITC) rather than relying solely on reverse translations.}, }
@article {pmid40531062, year = {2025}, author = {Montgomery, GH and Green, JP and Apelian, C and Zahedi, A and Polizzi, CP and Terhune, DB and Lynn, SJ}, title = {Hypnosis at the Crossroads: A Primer of the Past and Visions for the Future.}, journal = {The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-39}, doi = {10.1080/00207144.2025.2508407}, pmid = {40531062}, issn = {1744-5183}, abstract = {The field of hypnosis has intrigued clinicians and researchers alike for more than 200 years. Below, a review of hypnosis is presented from historical, theoretical, experimental, and clinical perspectives in order to provide those readers less aware of the field with a broad foundation. The literature reveals that while theoretically driven experimental research has led to groundbreaking clinical applications, there remains much to be done regarding dissemination of efficacious interventions and our understanding of underlying mechanisms responsible for observed effects. The goal is to inspire readers to pursue innovative work to improve our understanding of hypnosis and the quality of life of patients through clinical application. Along the way, we highlight empirical findings and selective writings of Dr. Steven Jay Lynn who was a tireless champion of hypnosis and psychotherapy.}, }
@article {pmid40526687, year = {2025}, author = {Yadav, SK and Bakhsh, A and Sharma, D}, title = {Who pays for surgical care in the global south? A narrative review.}, journal = {PLOS global public health}, volume = {5}, number = {6}, pages = {e0004781}, doi = {10.1371/journal.pgph.0004781}, pmid = {40526687}, issn = {2767-3375}, abstract = {For decades, surgical care was sidelined in global health policy, perceived as costly, complex, and secondary to communicable disease control. However, the past two decades have witnessed a paradigm shift, with evidence highlighting surgery's critical role in addressing nearly 30% of the global disease burden. Landmark efforts like the 2015 Lancet Commission on Global Surgery and WHO Resolution WHA68.15 underscored that safe, timely, and affordable surgical care is indispensable to achieving Universal Health Coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals. Yet, despite increasing advocacy, a fundamental question remains inadequately addressed: who pays for surgical care in the Global South? This narrative review explores the current landscape of surgical financing in low- and middle-income countries, examining domestic public funding, insurance-based models, donor assistance, diaspora contributions, and the persistent burden of out-of-pocket payments. While some initiatives-such as India's AB PM-JAY and organizations like Smile Train and KidsOR-illustrate scalable financing models, most low- and middle-income countries still rely on fragmented, underfunded systems that lead to catastrophic health expenditures. Moreover, political neglect, lack of standardized surgical metrics, and low visibility within global health frameworks continue to hinder sustained investment. The review further highlights the cost-effectiveness and economic benefits of surgical interventions, positioning surgery not only as a clinical imperative but also as a strategic investment in national development. Emphasizing the emerging concept of value-based surgery, it argues for integrating frugal innovations and systems-based approaches into health financing frameworks. To achieve equitable and sustainable surgical systems in the Global South, the global health community must address the multifaceted barriers to financing-economic, structural, and political. The review calls for strategic investments, better data, and policy integration to ensure that surgical care is no longer a privilege but a universal right.}, }
@article {pmid40526551, year = {2025}, author = {Zuo, Z and Dong, J and Wu, Y and Qu, Y and Wu, Z}, title = {PADiff: Reconstruction From Patch to Pixel With Normality-Guided Diffusion Model for Unsupervised Anomaly Localization.}, journal = {IEEE transactions on neural networks and learning systems}, volume = {PP}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1109/TNNLS.2025.3572438}, pmid = {40526551}, issn = {2162-2388}, abstract = {Anomaly localization (AL) is an indispensable and challenging task in manufacturing. Recently, diffusion models have been widely used to localize anomalies through discrepancies between original and reconstructed representations, which is based on the hypothesis that diffusion models regard anomalies as noise and reconstruct them to normal representations. However, anomalies usually deviate from prior standard Gaussian distribution and diffusion models cannot reconstruct anomaly parts as normal patterns well due to powerful generalization. These issues hinder the application of diffusion models in AL and lead to suboptimal performance. As a remedy, we present a novel framework for AL based on the diffusion model, dubbed PADiff. To enable the diffusion model to reconstruct abnormal regions to normal regions in an anomaly image, we propose to guide the diffusion model in the reconstruction process using its normal counterpart. High-quality guided normal counterpart plays a key role in our method. Therefore, we propose a patch-substitution strategy to obtain a high-quality-guided normal counterpart. Specifically, we first construct a normal patch memory bank using normal training samples. With a normal memory bank, we find potential anomaly patches in testing images and substitute them with most similar normal patches in the memory bank. After substitution, pseudo-normal images are generated to guide the diffusion model. To make our method more data-efficient, we divide an image into patches and propose patch-wise training and reconstruction. As one of our innovations, we propose to encode each patch into positional embedding and add it on time embedding, which introduces patch-level representation and position information in the diffusion model. Extensive experiments are conducted on three commonly used anomaly detection datasets (MVTec-AD, VisA, and BTAD) to showcase the state-of-the-art (SOTA) performance of the proposed PADiff. The source code is publicly available at https://github.com/Jay-zzcoder/padiff.}, }
@article {pmid40522119, year = {2025}, author = {Yadav, K and Hazarika, J and Rohullah, M and Chosenyah, M and Chandrasekar, R}, title = {Thermo-Welded Periodic Arrays of Fluorescent Polymer Microspheres for Rollable Coupled-Resonator Optical Waveguides.}, journal = {Small (Weinheim an der Bergstrasse, Germany)}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {e2502583}, doi = {10.1002/smll.202502583}, pmid = {40522119}, issn = {1613-6829}, support = {SERB-STR/2022/00011//SERB-New Delhi/ ; CRG/2023/003911//SERB-New Delhi/ ; DST/INT/RUS/RSF/P-71/2023(G)//DST-RSF/ ; }, abstract = {Polymer microspherical resonators that trap light are crucial structures for on-chip and on-board integration in nanophotonic applications. Using advanced micromanipulation and thermo-welding methods, welded polystyrene-based coupled-resonator optical waveguides (CROWs) are successfully created with customized lengths, shapes, and optical characteristics. Through the thermal fusion of blue, green, and red fluorophore-doped polystyrene microspheres, multi-fluorescent cohesive units are created from dimeric to henicosameric periodic arrangements. Detailed micro-spectroscopy studies reveal CROWs' capability to support optical whispering-gallery modes. The periodic arrangements of different fluorophore-doped resonators within the CROW facilitate efficient guided transmission of light via both active and passive mechanisms in opposite directions. The welded structures exhibit mechanically driven rolling motion, confirming their integration as cohesive units. These findings highlight the versatility and performance of thermo-welded polymer microsphere-based waveguides, paving the way for scalable, low-cost photonic devices in sensing, modulation, and light guiding, emphasizing their role in future integrated photonics.}, }
@article {pmid40514777, year = {2025}, author = {Gasparini, M and Scandola, M and Salati, E and Margiotta, R and Barbetti, S and Diana, S and Amato, S and Gambina, G and Bruno, G and Vanacore, N and Moro, V}, title = {The need to adapt neuropsychological tests to population changes. An update of the Italian normative data for three tests: Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure, Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices and COWAT -FAS.}, journal = {Journal of clinical and experimental neuropsychology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-12}, doi = {10.1080/13803395.2025.2519295}, pmid = {40514777}, issn = {1744-411X}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The study aims to update normative data for three of the tests which are most widely used in the Italian clinical services for dementia screening: the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure test, the Coloured Progressive Matrices test and the Controlled Oral Word Association test. In fact, the obsolescence of normative data is a crucial problem for cognitive tests, and their periodical updating is recommended because of the Flynn Effect: the longer the time which has passed since standardization, the greater the likelihood is that scores will overestimate real abilities.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 364 neurologically healthy individuals (130 males/234 females; age&#x2009;&#x2265;&#x2009;40, mean&#x2009;=&#x2009;65.67&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;10.29&#x2009;years, education&#x2009;=&#x2009;12.98&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;3.88&#x2009;years; MMSE score&#x2009;=&#x2009;29.32&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;1.11) were recruited from Rome and the surrounding area and divided into 8 groups by five-year age intervals (range 40-85&#x2009;years). Linear models with modulating effects for age, education, and gender were applied to obtain the correction scores. Percentiles and Equivalent Scores were calculated as well.<br><br>RESULTS: Normative data corrected for age, gender and education were obtained for the three tests. Decremental effects of age and incremental effects of education were confirmed, while mixed results were found for gender. When compared with previous Italian normative studies, a global increase in the mean scores was recorded.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The study provides updated scores for the Italian population for three tests widely used in clinical and experimental settings. The effects of aging, education, and gender on cognitive performance are confirmed, as well as the Flynn effect and the necessity for periodical updating of normative data for neuropsychological tests.}, }
@article {pmid40510728, year = {2025}, author = {Punde, P and Mishra, N and Joshi, A and Ramgadiya, A}, title = {A modified high infraorbital with lateral crow feet extension incision (Punincision) for body of zygoma fractures and zygoma implants: Original research.}, journal = {National journal of maxillofacial surgery}, volume = {16}, number = {1}, pages = {71-76}, pmid = {40510728}, issn = {0975-5950}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of the infraorbital incision with lateral crow feet extension to treat fractures present towards the body of zygoma.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Totally fifteen patients aged from 22 to 69 years diagnosed with fracture line running close to body of zygoma which had been reported to authors between February 2013 and June 2018 were included in this study. Seven patients had low-level frontozygomatic fractures. Eight had fracture lines too lateral to infraorbital foramina. These fractures require longer incisions if conventional approaches are used. New incision design comprising of laterally placed infraorbital incision joined with crow feet extension was used in all these cases. Fracture stabilization was done using 1.5 mm plates in all the cases.<br><br>RESULTS: The fractures were well reduced and stabilized. The scar was inconspicuous in nature hidden in skin crease in all the cases. Operation time was observed to be less when compared to using surgical records of conventional incision cases. Soft tissue swelling was also found out to be less as compared to conventional incision cases.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This modified incision was found to be effective for fractures near the center of body of zygoma in terms of easiness of fracture site exposure and fixation in less time.}, }
@article {pmid40504381, year = {2025}, author = {de Quadros, RM and Júnior, JAC and Raffi, MF and Casagrande, RA and Bassini-Silva, R}, title = {Collyriclum faba (Bremser, 1831) (Digenea: Collyriclidae) in the Azure jay, Cyanocorax caeruleus (Vieillot, 1818): the first report of the parasite in Brazil.}, journal = {Veterinary research communications}, volume = {49}, number = {4}, pages = {221}, pmid = {40504381}, issn = {1573-7446}, mesh = {Animals ; Brazil/epidemiology ; *Trematoda/isolation &amp; purification/classification ; *Trematode Infections/veterinary/parasitology/epidemiology ; *Bird Diseases/parasitology/epidemiology ; *Passeriformes/parasitology ; Female ; }, abstract = {This study aims to document the first record of the trematode Collyriclum faba in Brazil. This species parasitizes various bird groups, including Passeriformes, Galliformes, and domestic birds, across Europe, Northeast Asia, and the Americas. An Azure Jay (Cyanocorax caeruleus) found in Praia Grande, Santa Catarina State, southern Brazil, exhibited an unusual enlargement and obliteration of the pericloacal region by an approximately 4 cm diameter, multilobular mass was firm in consistency. A sample of the excised tissue was extracted and sent for histopathological analysis, revealing eight adult C. faba specimens within the cyst. Each cyst cavity contained two parasites, surrounded by fibrous connective tissue, forming multiple cavitations. Longitudinal and transverse sections of the trematodes showed a tegument-covered body with parenchymal lining inside the cavity. The uterus contained numerous thick-walled, yellowish-brown eggs. The parasites were encircled by a predominant infiltrate of macrophages, multinucleated giant cells, and diffuse heterophils, accompanied by bacterial colonies, resulting in the formation of a parasitic heterophilic granuloma.}, }
@article {pmid40501980, year = {2025}, author = {Wang, X and Kostrzewa, C and Reiner, A and Shen, R and Begg, C}, title = {A Bayesian Approach for Identifying Driver Mutations within Oncogenic Pathways through Mutual Exclusivity.}, journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1101/2025.05.27.656485}, pmid = {40501980}, issn = {2692-8205}, abstract = {Distinguishing driver mutations from the large background of passenger mutations remains a major challenge in cancer genomics. Evidence-based approaches to nominate driver mutations are often limited by the availability of experimental or clinical validation for specific variants. As clinical sequencing becomes integrated into patient care, computational methods provide powerful opportunities to analyze expanding genomic datasets and identify functional candidates beyond the current knowledge base. Among various analytical frameworks, mutual exclusivity, the observation that mutations in two or more genes tend not to co-occur within the same tumor, has been particularly attractive. Building on this principle, we propose BayesMAGPIE, a refined version of a statistical method, MAGPIE, developed previously for identifying driver genes within oncogenic pathways. The new method introduces two key innovations. First, it incorporates information on mutation type using a Bayesian hierarchical modeling framework, enabling the distinction between potential differences in functional effects among variants within the same gene, thereby improving the accuracy of driver identification. Second, it models gene-specific driver frequencies with a Dirichlet prior which effectively controls the sparsity of the inferred driver set and aligns with the biological expectation that most tumor types are driven by a small number of genes. We evaluate BayesMAGPIE through extensive simulation studies to assess its estimation bias and accuracy in driver identification, and benchmark its performance against MAGPIE using TCGA data from eight cancer types.}, }
@article {pmid40491745, year = {2025}, author = {Gupta, U and Kumar, N}, title = {Feathers, folklore, and eco-literacy: Stories ascribe cultural keystone status to avian scavengers in South Asian cities.}, journal = {Ornithological applications}, volume = {127}, number = {1}, pages = {duae056}, pmid = {40491745}, issn = {2732-4621}, support = {/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {We examined the cultural significance of commensal avian scavenger species-vultures, kites, and crows-and their exploitation of anthropogenic resources and sentiments within Delhi's urban landscapes. For this, we investigated the intrinsic values attributed to these birds by people, which are indicative of complex, rapidly urbanizing social-ecological systems. Semi-structured interviews revealed folk perceptions intertwined with socio-cultural narratives and traditions, shaped by observations of avian morphology, ecology, and behavior. Birds' nesting habits, habitats, home ranges, and foraging behaviors affected people's perceptions, while ecosystem services inspired zoomorphism and anthropomorphism via vernacular-nomenclature (e.g., chidiya collectively for songbirds, giddha for scavenging raptors). Culturally rooted perceptions, which informed ritual feeding practices and shaped prevalent attitudes toward commensal species, fostered mutual tolerance, and brought people into closer contact with urban biodiversity. Such physical and cultural proximity is a defining characteristic distinguishing tropical urban ecosystems from their Western counterparts. We also uncovered the web of social-technological influences on animal-related folk stories. The urbanization of perceptions in vulture extinction zones revealed shifts in social-ecological relationships with wildlife. It adds cultural dimensions to the currently appreciated keystone status of vultures, vital for their erstwhile coexistence at extremely high densities in South Asia. Urban transformations, technological advancements, and media exposure potentially reshaped human-animal interface, with media misinformation affecting personalized ecologies. Conflicts and health concerns arose from media narratives on garbage-consuming animals. Our findings offer insights to prevent severing of people and nature connections due to urbanization (e.g., technological applications can integrate scientific knowledge with biocultural narratives and folklore), promoting a new-age eco-literacy.}, }
@article {pmid40482599, year = {2025}, author = {Isoda, N and Hiono, T and Hew, YL and Takaya, F and Nguyen, BL and Kobayashi, D and Fujino, K and Sakoda, Y}, title = {Dynamics of high pathogenicity avian influenza virus infection with multiple introductions in a crow flock in an urban park in Hokkaido, Japan.}, journal = {Comparative immunology, microbiology and infectious diseases}, volume = {121}, number = {}, pages = {102367}, doi = {10.1016/j.cimid.2025.102367}, pmid = {40482599}, issn = {1878-1667}, abstract = {Since 2021, high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) of the H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b has been circulating globally, not only in domestic poultry but also in wild birds, both migratory and resident species. In March to May 2022, March to April 2023, and January to April 2024, crow die-offs were reported in an urban garden in Hokkaido, Japan, raising suspicions of HPAIV infection. Since August 2022, all dead carcasses were investigated for HPAIV detection and isolation. Phylogenetic analysis of the H5 hemagglutinin gene revealed that all detected HPAIVs belonged to clade 2.3.4.4b, a dominant lineage in Hokkaido since early 2022. Two distinct subgroups were identified: G2d (in 2022-2024) and G2a (in 2024). A maximum clade credibility tree, based on concatenated nucleotide sequences of the isolates, suggested that multiple distinct types of HPAIVs were introduced into the garden in rotation during the winters of 2022-2023 and 2023-2024. Infectious HPAIVs were isolated not only from the lungs and brains but also from the rectal contents of the dead crows, with no apparent difference in viral titers between the two subgroups. The case reproduction numbers of HPAIV infection in the crow flock ranged from 0.52 and 1.57 in the spring of 2022 and from 0.55 to 1.78 in the spring of 2023, suggesting that the contiguous HPAIV infections in the crows were due to multiple introductions into the flock. Crow can play a key role of potential spread to other animals, poultry and wildlife in urban areas or humans in rural areas.}, }
@article {pmid40481186, year = {2025}, author = {Zhang, X and Huang, C and Gui, W}, title = {A multi-strategy improved crow search algorithm for multi-level thresholding image segmentation.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {20033}, pmid = {40481186}, issn = {2045-2322}, abstract = {The standard crow search algorithm suffers from low convergence accuracy, insufficient stability, and susceptibility to getting stuck in local optima. To tackle these formidable challenges, this paper proposes a novel multi-strategy improved crow search algorithm (MSICSA) specifically designed for multi-level image segmentation. The proposed approach incorporates three key enhancements: firstly, opposition-based learning (OBL) is utilized to improve the quality of initial solutions within MSICSA; secondly, an adaptive awareness probability mechanism is introduced to better balance the trade-off between exploration and exploitation; lastly, two differential mutation operators are developed to enhance global search capabilities, increase population diversity, and reduce the risk of converging on local optima. To validate the performance of the proposed algorithm, two sets of experiments are conducted. In the first set of experiments, CEC 2020 benchmark test functions are selected to compare the performance of MSICSA with other group intelligent optimization algorithms. In the second set of experiments, Otsu's method and fuzzy entropy are employed as objective functions for performing multilevel threshold segmentation on twelve grayscale images. The experimental results demonstrate that MSICSA outperforms seven comparison algorithms in terms of both convergence speed and segmentation quality.}, }
@article {pmid40474401, year = {2020}, author = {Freeberg, TM}, title = {On mark-test replication and mirror self-recognition in magpies.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {134}, number = {4}, pages = {361-362}, doi = {10.1037/com0000256}, pmid = {40474401}, issn = {1939-2087}, abstract = {We have known about the importance of replication and reproducibility since our earliest science classes. In animal behavioral studies, the major texts on methods in the field stress the importance of study replication. Nonetheless, there has been a growing call in animal behavior for greater efforts to replicate published studies. An interesting avian candidate for the mark-test is the magpie, Pica pica. Over 10 years ago, a study revealed evidence of two magpies (out of five tested) passing the mark-test (Prior, Schwarz, &amp; Güntürkün, 2008). Given the importance of this finding to the field of comparative cognition, and the aforementioned arguments about the need for increased efforts to replicate such findings, Soler et al. (2020) set out to replicate the earlier magpie study with a slightly larger sample size. The magpies were caught in the wild as adults (whereas those in the earlier study were adults that had been hand-raised in the lab; Prior et al., 2008). During the experiment itself, Soler and colleagues (2020; this issue) tried to follow the experimental steps of the earlier study as closely as possible. Magpies were marked on their throats with different sizes and colors of stickers and were presented with either a mirror or a size-matched cardboard stimulus. Although the magpies showed different social and self-directed behavior in the context of the mirror as compared with the cardboard control stimulus, they did not pass the mark-test. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid40470745, year = {2025}, author = {Avilés, JM and de la Cruz, C and González-Medina, E and Villegas, A and Valencia, J and Masero, JA}, title = {Body size as a mediator of climatic effects: Insights from a long-term study of social Iberian magpies.}, journal = {Ecology}, volume = {106}, number = {6}, pages = {e70130}, doi = {10.1002/ecy.70130}, pmid = {40470745}, issn = {1939-9170}, support = {2PR02A080//Junta de Extremadura/ ; IB18089//Junta de Extremadura/ ; IPR99A020//Junta de Extremadura/ ; PRI09A057//Junta de Extremadura/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Body Size/physiology ; Male ; Female ; *Climate Change ; Reproduction ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; *Climate ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {The importance of considering body size in assessing evolutionary responses to climatic change is increasingly recognized, as body size correlates with morphological, physiological, and ecological traits that are climate-sensitive and influence fitness. However, the role of body size in mediating climatic effects in vertebrates remains poorly understood. Here, we examined structural body-size responses to natal and adult-experienced climate in a social bird and assessed whether body size mediates the direction of climatic effects. Using 26 years of data on cooperatively breeding Iberian magpies Cyanopica cooki, we found that adult males reared in late spring nests were smaller than those hatched earlier in the breeding season. This pattern was driven by smaller females, which reproduced later and produced smaller sons. Larger males born in hottest years had lower lifetime fledgling production, while larger males experiencing hotter springs as adults produced more fledglings over their lifetime. Additionally, larger males born in driest years or raised in nests with many brood mates had shorter lifespans. Despite a significant increase in temperature in the study area over 26 years, the average tarsus length of males has not changed, likely due to opposing effects of natal and adult climate on body size. Our findings illustrate how inherited body size mediates climatic effects at different life stages, with these effects acting in contrasting directions on fecundity, resulting in apparent trait stasis despite ongoing climate warming.}, }
@article {pmid40467686, year = {2025}, author = {Shawky, EM and Hamdy, R and Elgindi, MR and Baky, MH}, title = {UPLC-HRMS-MS profiling of Ludwigia adscendens subsp. diffusa aerial parts and investigation of the anti-inflammatory effect.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {19718}, pmid = {40467686}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {*Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Plant Components, Aerial/chemistry ; Tandem Mass Spectrometry ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry ; Phytochemicals/pharmacology/chemistry/analysis ; Animals ; Mice ; Flavonoids ; RAW 264.7 Cells ; }, abstract = {Ludwigia adscendens subsp. diffusa (Forssk.) P.H. Raven, also known as L. stolonifera, is an aquatic herb belonging to family Onagraceae and widely distributed in canals and drains in the Nile Delta, Egypt. The main goal of the current study is to investigate the metabolic profile of L. adscendens aerial parts using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with high resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-HRMS/MS) and investigation of its anti-inflammatory activity. A total of 168 metabolites were identified by UPLC-MS/MS analysis in negative and positive modes belonging to several phytochemical classes including phenolics (57), flavonoids (26), terpenoids (25), sterols (23), fatty acids (11), coumarins (7) organic acids (5), sugar derivatives (5), lactones (4), acids (3), and glycoside (2). The UPLC-MS analysis of L. adscendens revealed identification of a diverse array of phytochemicals which contribute to its potential pharmacological properties. The identification of bioactive metabolites in L. adscendens aerial parts including gallic acid, quercetin, ellagic acid, and betulinic acid can impart biological activities including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The anti-inflammatory activity was investigated for L. adscendens methanol and ethyl acetate extract using nitric acid inhibition assay revealing IC50 of 26.4 and 23.9 µg/ml, respectively, compared to resveratrol as a standard anti-inflammatory with IC50 value of 14.2 µg/ml. These findings can highlight the importance of L. adscendens aerial parts as a potential source of bioactive metabolites.}, }
@article {pmid40463953, year = {2025}, author = {Eibner-Gebhardt, MW and Fleischer, RC and Campana, MG}, title = {A historical Hawaiian Avipoxvirus genome reconstructed from an 1898 museum specimen.}, journal = {iScience}, volume = {28}, number = {4}, pages = {112153}, pmid = {40463953}, issn = {2589-0042}, abstract = {Avipoxvirus is an avian pathogen that likely contributed to the declines and extinctions of endemic Hawaiian birds since its 19th century introduction. We surveyed 719 DNA libraries, including 639 representing 440 Hawaiian bird specimens, for evidence of Avipoxvirus infection. We reconstructed a 5.2× Avipoxvirus genome from an 1898 Hawaii 'amakihi (Chlorodrepanis virens) specimen. Its sequence matched an extant Hawaiian Avipoxvirus strain, supporting the strain's persistence in Hawaii over the last century. We identified the earliest molecularly verified case of Avipoxvirus in the Hawaiian Islands in an 1887 'alalā (Corvus hawaiiensis) specimen and reconstructed a partial Avipoxvirus genome from this specimen. Both specimens' Avipoxvirus strains were most closely related to canarypox virus, suggesting that introduced passerines may be the source of Avipoxvirus in Hawaiian endemic land birds. These findings clarify the origins and evolution of Avipoxvirus in Hawaii and provide evidence for the broader role of pathogens in driving biodiversity loss.}, }
@article {pmid40455535, year = {2025}, author = {Shen, J and Palmeri, TJ}, title = {Modeling the dynamics of real-world perceptual expertise.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Learning, memory, and cognition}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1037/xlm0001496}, pmid = {40455535}, issn = {1939-1285}, support = {//National Science Foundation/ ; //Vanderbilt University/ ; }, abstract = {Novices are faster to verify categories at intermediate ("basic") levels of abstraction (bird) than superordinate (animal) or subordinate (blue jay) levels, whereas experts are equally fast at subordinate and intermediate levels. One explanation ("entry-level hypothesis") is that for novices, categorization at intermediate levels is faster because it is the "entry level" into conceptual knowledge; experts become as fast at the subordinate level because the subordinate level becomes an alternative entry level. An alternative explanation ("differentiation hypothesis") is that for novices, categorization at intermediate levels is faster because that level is more differentiated and informative, not that it happens first; experts become as fast at the subordinate level because representations of objects at that level become more differentiated. We evaluated these hypotheses by fitting the diffusion decision model to accuracy and response time data from online participants with various psychometrically measured levels of birding expertise. We identified the alternative hypotheses with diffusion decision model parameters: Differences in nondecision time across category levels are arguably associated with the entry-level hypothesis, whereas differences in drift rate are arguably associated with the differentiation hypothesis. We fitted the diffusion decision model using a Bayesian hierarchical framework to estimate individual differences in model parameters across conditions. Behaviorally, we replicated the entry-level shift online. Theoretically, we found that differences in categorization speed across levels of expertise were captured by differences in both drift rate and nondecision time across levels. These results provide insights into the changes in representations and processes with the development of perceptual expertise. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid40452390, year = {2025}, author = {Xin-Li,  and Lingling-Hu,  and Weimin-Song,  and Qian-Lu, }, title = {Safety and efficacy of platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of periorbital skin photoaging.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-7}, doi = {10.1080/14764172.2025.2513380}, pmid = {40452390}, issn = {1476-4180}, abstract = {Periorbital skin photoaging is a common cosmetic problem.Presently, conventional treatment methods cannot achieve satisfactory results. Periorbital skin aging may benefit from platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection. However, there is little experimental evidence on the safety and efficacy of PRP in the treatment of periorbital skin photoaging. To examine the safety and efficacy of PRP injection in the treatment of periorbital skin photoaging, PRP was injected into the periorbital skin of 20 patients, and patient satisfaction was assessed at the first month (M1), the second month (M2), and the third month (M3) after treatment. Two experienced dermatologists independently evaluated the patient's skin before and after treatment according to internationally accepted guidelines. The objective indicators of skin hydration, melanin index, erythema index, skin brightness, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin elasticity, and skin thickness were measured. Some subjective indicators, including pigmentation around the eyes, suborbital wrinkles, and static crow's feet, were significantly improved. Some objective indicators, including skin brightness, skin thickness, and collagen strength, were also significantly improved. Eye bags and TEWL slightly improved, but the differences were not statistically significant. The overall patient satisfaction with the treatment was high, no serious complications were noted, and the recovery profile was favorable. PRP injection was safe and effective for the treatment of periorbital skin photoaging.}, }
@article {pmid40448730, year = {2025}, author = {Lamien-Meda, A and Harl, J and Lieber, A and Unterköfler, MS and Eigner, B and Wortha, LN and Müller, F and Heddergott, M and Fuehrer, HP}, title = {Molecular analysis of blood-associated pathogens in common ravens (Corvus corax) from Germany.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {124}, number = {6}, pages = {56}, pmid = {40448730}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Animals ; Germany/epidemiology ; *Crows/parasitology ; Prevalence ; *Bird Diseases/parasitology/epidemiology ; *Haemosporida/isolation &amp; purification/genetics/classification ; Trypanosomatina/isolation &amp; purification/genetics/classification ; *Blood/parasitology ; Filarioidea/isolation &amp; purification/genetics/classification ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Common ravens (Corvus corax) are intelligent scavengers that adapt to diverse environments, playing a key ecological role, but their health and ecosystem contributions can be affected by parasites. This study investigates the prevalence and diversity of blood parasite infections in common ravens using molecular techniques. Blood samples (n = 42) were collected from dead common ravens in Germany and screened for filarioid nematodes, trypanosomatids, and haemosporidian parasites. The results showed that 26.2% of the common ravens were PCR-positive for at least one parasite, with some cases of mixed infections. Filarioid nematodes were found in 16.7%, trypanosomatids in 4.8%, and haemosporidian parasites in 16.7% of the common ravens. Sequencing revealed the presence of four Leucocytozoon CytB lineages and one Haemoproteus lineage. The findings suggest that common ravens in Germany are often infected with diverse avian blood parasites, with a higher prevalence of filarioid nematodes. Further research is needed to confirm the circulation of these parasites in the common raven population and to identify the specific filarioid nematode species present in Germany.}, }
@article {pmid40442496, year = {2025}, author = {Bhojani-Lynch, T and Shah-Desai, S and Bichet, JC and Magalhães, B and Poupard, K}, title = {Real-World Evidence on the Routine Use, Efficacy, and Safety of a Hyaluronic Acid-Based Dermal Filler in the Periorbital Region.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {40442496}, issn = {1432-5241}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The appearance of the periorbital region is essential in facial aesthetic perception and is a frequent concern of patients seeking rejuvenation. TEOSYAL® PureSense Redensity 2 (R2) has a 10-year track record of effectively and safely treating the under-eye area, specifically the tear trough.<br><br>METHODS: A prospective, observational study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of R2 in a real-world setting for aesthetic indications. Participants received at least one treatment injection with R2, and investigators followed their routine injection techniques and indications. The primary endpoint was&#xa0;the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) score recorded 3 months post-injection. Secondary efficacy outcomes included subject and investigator satisfaction, as well as GAIS&#xa0;scores at later timepoints. Safety was monitored by documenting common treatment responses (CTRs) and adverse events (AEs).<br><br>RESULTS: The 136 subjects enrolled in EYELIGHT received 958 initial injections, of which 451 (47.1%) were performed with R2: 89 (35.3%) tear trough, 61 (24.2%) palpebromalar groove, 45 (17.9%) outer canthus, 38 (15.1%) crow's feet, and 19 (7.5%) brow. A GAIS improvement of more than 70% was achieved for the tear trough and remaining periorbital indications, with most subjects reporting satisfaction with treatment (84.3%). Treatment effect was observed up to 12 months post-injection. All CTRs were mild or moderate and resolved within a month. No severe AEs were reported.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Real-world evidence confirmed the 10-year long success of R2 as an effective and safe treatment of the tear trough. Based on this evidence, its use extends beyond the tear trough, showing effectiveness and safety in the whole periorbital area.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .}, }
@article {pmid40425099, year = {2025}, author = {Helal, ZH and Soriano, NF and Chung, DH and Lee, DH and Tocco, N and Gazeyoglu, F and Hyeon, JY and Risatti, GR}, title = {Molecular epidemiology of West Nile Virus in Raptors, Connecticut, USA, 2022: A case series with whole genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis.}, journal = {Infection, genetics and evolution : journal of molecular epidemiology and evolutionary genetics in infectious diseases}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {105769}, doi = {10.1016/j.meegid.2025.105769}, pmid = {40425099}, issn = {1567-7257}, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV), a mosquito-borne flavivirus, circulates in an enzootic cycle between birds and mosquitoes, with raptors serving as key amplifying hosts. Despite their importance in WNV surveillance, complete genome sequences from raptors remain limited. This study aimed to investigate the genetic diversity and evolutionary history of WNV in raptors from Connecticut, USA. Samples were collected in 2022 from the brain tissue of deceased red-tailed hawks, red-shouldered hawks, Cooper's hawks, a peregrine falcon, and American crows. Complete protein-coding sequences (CDSs) of 19 WNV isolates were obtained using multiplex tiling reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) developed in this study and Illumina iSeq100 sequencing. Phylogenetic analyses revealed our sequences were grouped into two monophyletic clusters and two singletons within lineage 1, showing genetic similarities to WNV strains detected in mosquitoes in New York (2012-2015) rather than earlier strains from Connecticut (1999-2008). Bayesian analysis indicated at least four independent introductions, with the estimated time to the most recent common ancestor (tMRCA) for Clusters 1 and 2 in April 2009 and February 2010, respectively. The mean substitution rate was 4.30 × 10[-4] substitutions/site/year. All sequences contained the T249P mutation in NS3, which has been linked to reduced virulence in avian models. These findings provide valuable reference data for future WNV genomic surveillance studies, emphasizing the role of raptors as sentinel species and the need for ongoing genomic surveillance to monitor WNV evolution, transmission, and potential public health risks.}, }
@article {pmid40418245, year = {2025}, author = {Hunter, H and Blackburn, G and Ashton, BJ and Ridley, AR}, title = {Group size affects spontaneous quantity discrimination performance in wild Western Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen dorsalis).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {28}, number = {1}, pages = {41}, pmid = {40418245}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Male ; *Discrimination, Psychological ; Female ; Reward ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; Social Behavior ; Western Australia ; }, abstract = {Animals may benefit from the ability to discriminate between quantities in their environment; for example, when choosing between foraging patches differing in food availability or assessing the size of rival groups. Numerous studies utilising spontaneous quantity discrimination tasks have found that a wide range of species possess the ability to discriminate between quantities, with large interspecific differences being found in these capabilities. However, the causes of variation in quantity discrimination have received less attention, particularly when considering intraspecific variation. Here, we use a spontaneous quantity discrimination task to (i) investigate if Western Australian magpies possess quantity discrimination abilities, and (ii) determine the factors that underlie individual variation in this ability. We found that magpies were able to discriminate between two discrete quantities of a food reward and chose the larger quantity of food more often than expected by chance, with their accuracy increasing as the difference between the two quantities of food items increased (i.e. as the ratio decreased). Individual performance on the assay was significantly affected by group size, with individuals from smaller groups choosing the larger quantity of food more often than individuals from larger groups when presented with the 2 vs. 5 combination. This group size difference may arise because individuals from smaller groups benefit more from enhanced quantity discrimination abilities compared to individuals from larger groups due to the greater risk of competition and loss of resources from intergroup conflict with larger groups. Our study is the first to investigate and identify group size as a source of intraspecific variation in spontaneous quantity discrimination abilities and highlights the importance of considering the causes of individual variation in cognitive performance.}, }
@article {pmid40411979, year = {2025}, author = {Zhang, L and Han, Y and Yan, H and Zhang, C and Li, X and Liang, J and Tang, C and Wu, W and Deng, W and Xie, G and Guo, W}, title = {Decreased left brain specialization in bipolar disorder patients and its association with neurotransmitter and genetic profiles: A longitudinal study.}, journal = {Asian journal of psychiatry}, volume = {109}, number = {}, pages = {104539}, doi = {10.1016/j.ajp.2025.104539}, pmid = {40411979}, issn = {1876-2026}, abstract = {Brain specialization plays a crucial role in human behavior and cognition. Previous studies have suggested abnormal specialization in psychiatric disorders; however, the specialization patterns of bipolar disorder (BD) and the effects of medication on these changes remain unclear. According to Crow's hypothesis regarding the key role of language in the origin of psychoses, BD patients (BDPs) may exhibit abnormal language-related specialization. Here, we aimed to explore brain specialization alterations of BDPs before and after pharmacological treatment. The autonomy index, based on resting-state images, was used to assess brain specialization in 82 BDPs and 88 healthy controls (HCs). Among patients, 43 BDPs who underwent 3 months of pharmacological treatment completed the follow-up. Using autonomy index as input, support vector regression (SVR) analysis was conducted to predict treatment response. Additionally, we conducted cross-sample correlation analyses between autonomy index and genetic profiles or the densities of neurotransmitter receptors/transporters. At baseline, BDPs exhibited reduced autonomy index in the left middle temporal gyrus (MTG) relative to HCs. However, no significant alterations were observed following pharmacological treatment. Using autonomy index, the SVR model could predict treatment response for BDPs with a correlation coefficient of 0.705. Brain specialization patterns were correlated with six genes and neurotransmitters including dopaminergic (D1R, D2R, and DAT) and serotonergic (5-HT2A) transmission. In line with Crow's hypothesis, we found reduced brain specialization in a key node of the language network (LN) in BDPs. We also provided potential genetic and biological mechanisms underlying BD.}, }
@article {pmid40410321, year = {2025}, author = {Ghochani, G and Aghajani, A and Rajabi, MT and Zand, A and Yaseri, M and Rafizadeh, SM}, title = {Comparison of Two Botulinum Neurotoxin Type A Preparations (Masport and Dysport) for Upper Face Rhytides: A Randomized Clinical Trial.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {40410321}, issn = {1432-5241}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum neurotoxin type A has played a key role in the treatment of facial rhytides. We aimed to compare the safety and effectiveness of Masport and Dysport as botulinum toxin type A preparations in the treatment of upper face rhytides.<br><br>METHODS: A double-blind randomized, clinical trial was conducted on adults with at least mild severity (scale 1) for lateral canthal (crow's feet), glabellar, and frontal lines at maximum contraction positions (dynamic status), regardless of their static scales (rest position). Participants were randomly assigned to receive either Masport or Dysport. Rhytides in each area were scaled at baseline and at post-injection weeks 2, 8, 12, and 16. Self-satisfaction were assessed at follow-ups.<br><br>RESULTS: For both groups, a decrease in dynamic rhytides was observed at week 2 compared to baseline (all Ps < 0.05). Although dynamic rhytides increased again in subsequent follow-ups, they remained significantly lower than baseline levels until week 12 (all Ps < 0.05). By week 16, no differences were observed compared to baseline (all Ps > 0.05). While at week 2, both dynamic and static scales were higher in the Masport group (all Ps < 0.05), this difference did not persist for most of them at weeks 12 and 16. Satisfaction scores were similar between the groups throughout all follow-ups (all Ps > 0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The onset and duration of action for Masport and Dysport are similar in the treatment of upper face rhytides at equal doses. While Dysport may initially show a stronger effect than Masport in treating upper face rhytides, this advantage does not persist in the long term.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE I: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these evidence-based medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .}, }
@article {pmid40408204, year = {2025}, author = {Kwiatkowski, J and Krawiec, K}, title = {Staged Self-Supervised Learning for Raven Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {IEEE transactions on neural networks and learning systems}, volume = {PP}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1109/TNNLS.2025.3561069}, pmid = {40408204}, issn = {2162-2388}, abstract = {This study presents and investigates abstract compositional transformers (ACTs), a class of deep learning (DL) architectures based on the transformer blueprint, designed to handle abstract reasoning tasks that require completing spatial visual patterns. We combine ACTs with choice-making modules and apply them to Raven progressive matrices (RPMs), logical puzzles that require selecting the correct image from the available answers. We devise a number of ACT variants, train them in several modes and with additional augmentations, subject them to ablations, demonstrate their data scalability, and analyze their behavior and latent representations that emerged in the process. Using self-supervision allows us to successfully train ACTs on relatively small training sets, mitigate several biases identified in RPMs in past studies, and achieve SotA results on the two most popular RPM benchmarks.}, }
@article {pmid40407737, year = {2025}, author = {De León-Hernández, A and Martínez-Hernández, A and Bolivar-Tellería, I and Bosch-Sánchez, A and Cabrera-Padilla, MF and López-López, CO}, title = {A Method for Custom-Contoured Cushion Fabrication Based on Pressure Mapping for Wheelchair Users to Prevent Pressure Ulcers: Feasibility Quasi-Experimental Study.}, journal = {JMIR rehabilitation and assistive technologies}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {e68612}, doi = {10.2196/68612}, pmid = {40407737}, issn = {2369-2529}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pressure ulcers constitute a major health care burden, characterized by significant morbidity, diminished quality of life, and elevated treatment costs. Wheelchair users are predisposed to pressure ulcers due to sustained ischial and sacral interface pressures resulting from prolonged periods of sitting. Implementation of pressure-relieving interventions, including specialized seating systems engineered to redistribute load and augment the weight-bearing surface area, is critical for mitigating the risk of pressure ulcers.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate a methodology for the custom fabrication of pressure relief cushions, through the user-cushion interface pressure mapping to reduce high-pressure areas and increase contact area in wheelchair users.<br><br>METHODS: First, a validation study was carried out with 7 healthy volunteers. The pressure was determined with an FSA sensor (BodiTrak BT1510, Vista Medical Manufactures), and the cushion profile was obtained through a linear relation with pressure values. In the second phase, 10 cushions for wheelchair users were manufactured and tested. The resulting data from buttock pressure using a flat foam, Jay X2 (gel-foam), ROHO high profile (air), and customed-contoured cushions were analyzed and compared using the following 4 variables: peak pressure, peak pressure index, mean pressure, and contact area.<br><br>RESULTS: In the validation study, the statistically significant difference between the flat and the custom-contoured cushion showed a better performance in pressure relief for the custom cushion (mean pressure 27.3, SD 4.5 mm Hg and 34.6, SD 3.5 mm Hg; P<.001). Regarding the study with wheelchair users, custom-contoured cushions had lower peak pressure (mean 91.3, SD 36 mm Hg), peak pressure index (mean 69.5, SD 33.7 mm Hg), and mean pressure (34.2, SD 17.4 mm Hg) against flat, Jay X2, and ROHO high profile cushions (P<.005). The contact area (mean 1457.6, SD 254.1 cm2) was greater for the contoured cushion (P<.001) than for flat and ROHO high profile (Permobile) cushions; nevertheless, it was not significantly different from Jay X2 (P=.59).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The main finding is that the buttock pressure mapping method produces custom-contoured cushions that, compared with commercial cushions, have good pressure distribution and increased contact area. These results suggest that pressure mapping is a good alternative for manufacturing affordable custom-contoured cushions that can prevent the development of pressure ulcers.}, }
@article {pmid40403206, year = {2025}, author = {Zhu, C and Wang, Z and Peng, Y and Xiao, W}, title = {An improved Red-billed blue magpie feature selection algorithm for medical data processing.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {20}, number = {5}, pages = {e0324866}, pmid = {40403206}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Humans ; *Data Mining/methods ; Machine Learning ; Pattern Recognition, Automated/methods ; }, abstract = {Feature selection is a crucial preprocessing step in the fields of machine learning, data mining and pattern recognition. In medical data analysis, the large number and complexity of features are often accompanied by redundant or irrelevant features, which not only increase the computational burden, but also may lead to model overfitting, which in turn affects its generalization ability. To address this problem, this paper proposes an improved red-billed blue magpie algorithm (IRBMO), which is specifically optimized for the feature selection task, and significantly improves the performance and efficiency of the algorithm on medical data by introducing multiple innovative behavioral strategies. The core mechanisms of IRBMO include: elite search behavior, which improves global optimization by guiding the search to expand in more promising directions; collaborative hunting behavior, which quickly identifies key features and promotes collaborative optimization among feature subsets; and memory storage behavior, which leverages historically valid information to improve search efficiency and accuracy. To adapt to the feature selection problem, we convert the continuous optimization algorithm to binary form via transfer function, which further enhances the applicability of the algorithm. In order to comprehensively verify the performance of IRBMO, this paper designs a series of experiments to compare it with nine mainstream binary optimization algorithms. The experiments are based on 12 medical datasets, and the results show that IRBMO achieves optimal overall performance in key metrics such as fitness value, classification accuracy and specificity. In addition, compared with nine existing feature selection methods, IRBMO demonstrates significant advantages in terms of fitness value. To further enhance the performance, this paper also constructs the V2IRBMO variant by combining the S-shaped and V-shaped transfer functions, which further enhances the robustness and generalization ability of the algorithm. Experiments demonstrate that IRBMO exhibits high efficiency, generality and excellent generalization ability in feature selection tasks. In addition, used in conjunction with the KNN classifier, IRBMO significantly improves the classification accuracy, with an average accuracy improvement of 43.89% on 12 medical datasets compared to the original Red-billed Blue Magpie algorithm. These results demonstrate the potential and wide applicability of IRBMO in feature selection for medical data.}, }
@article {pmid40389693, year = {2025}, author = {Wang, Z and Zhan, P}, title = {Eye-tracking-based hidden Markov modeling for revealing within-item cognitive strategy switching.}, journal = {Behavior research methods}, volume = {57}, number = {6}, pages = {175}, pmid = {40389693}, issn = {1554-3528}, support = {24YJA190019//the MOE (Ministry of Education in China) Project of Humanities and Social Sciences/ ; 31900795//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Markov Chains ; *Problem Solving/physiology ; *Eye-Tracking Technology ; *Cognition/physiology ; Male ; Female ; Young Adult ; Adult ; *Eye Movements/physiology ; }, abstract = {Identifying cognitive strategies in problem-solving helps researchers understand advanced cognitive processes and their applicable contexts. Current methods typically identify strategies for each item of Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices, capturing only between-item cognitive strategy switching (CSS). Although within-item CSS is recognized, methods to dynamically identify and reveal it are lacking. This study introduces the concept of an eye movement snippet, a basic unit for studying within-item CSS, along with a new eye-tracking process measure that quantifies the sequence length of alternatives viewed in a snippet. Combined with hidden Markov modeling, we propose a new method for dynamically identifying within-item cognitive strategies and revealing their switching. Using eye-tracking data from a matrix reasoning test, we demonstrate the value of the proposed method through a series of analyses. The results indicate that during problem-solving: (1) participants predominantly used two strategies-constructive matching and response elimination; (2) there is a high probability of switching from constructive matching to response elimination, but not vice versa; (3) more difficult items lead to more frequent strategy switching; (4) frequent strategy switching decreases time spent in the matrix area and on problem-solving planning; (5) frequent strategy switching correlates with incorrect answers for some items; and (6) frequent strategy switching increases total response time. Additionally, within-item CSS showed three distinct patterns as the test progressed, with significant differences in participants' intelligence levels and total test time among the patterns. Overall, the proposed method effectively identifies within-item cognitive strategies and their switching in matrix reasoning tasks.}, }
@article {pmid40380315, year = {2025}, author = {Malin, KJ and Vance, AJ and Moser, SE and Zemlak, J and Edwards, C and White-Traut, R and Koerner, R and McGrath, J and McGlothen-Bell, K}, title = {The impact of social determinants of health on infant and maternal health using a reproductive justice lens.}, journal = {BMC pregnancy and childbirth}, volume = {25}, number = {1}, pages = {577}, pmid = {40380315}, issn = {1471-2393}, support = {1K23NR021043-01A1/NR/NINR NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Social Determinants of Health/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Pregnancy ; *Maternal Health/statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Infant Health/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Infant, Newborn ; United States/epidemiology ; *Social Justice ; Infant ; Adult ; Infant Mortality ; Prenatal Care/statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Rates of preterm birth, low birth weight, and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) admissions continue to rise in the United States (US). Social determinants of health (SDOH) are recognized as significant contributors to infant and maternal health, underscoring the need for use of research frameworks that incorporate SDOH concepts. The Restoring Our Own Through Transformation (ROOTT) theoretical framework is rooted in reproductive justice (i.e. reproductive rights and social justice-based framework) and emphasizes both structural and social determinants as root causes of health inequities. The impact of SDOH on maternal and infant mortality and morbidity can often be traced to structural determinants unique to the US, including slavery, Jim Crow laws, redlining, and the GI Bill.<br><br>AIMS: Using data from the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) 8&#xa0;database, we aimed to evaluate relationships between SDOH (as guided by the ROOTT Framework) and maternal and infant health outcomes.<br><br>METHODS: Data were analyzed from 11 states that included the SDOH supplement in their PRAMS 8 data collection. We used bivariate analyses to examine relationships between SDOH measures guided by the ROOTT framework (e.g. abuse during pregnancy, access to prenatal care, housing stability and education) and maternal morbidity (i.e., gestational hypertension and gestational diabetes) and infant outcomes (i.e., preterm birth, NICU admission, breastfeeding). Pre-identified covariates were controlled for in the logistic and linear regression models.<br><br>RESULTS: Preterm birth, NICU admission, breastfeeding, and maternal morbidities were significantly associated with SDOH measures linked to structural determinants in the US. Abuse during pregnancy, access to prenatal care, housing, and education were all significantly associated with poorer infant health outcomes in the final regression models. Women who received prenatal care beginning in the 3[rd] trimester were twice as likely to develop gestational hypertension.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: SDOHs rooted in structural determinants are important predictors of poorer maternal and infant health outcomes. Evaluating health outcomes using a reproductive justice framework reveals modifiable risk factors, including access to stable healthcare, safety, and housing. Comprehensive healthcare provision must ensure early and consistent access to healthcare and resources for safety and housing stability to support maternal and infant health.}, }
@article {pmid40378360, year = {2025}, author = {Bhavnani, S and Ranjan, A and Mukherjee, D and Divan, G and Prakash, A and Yadav, A and Lal, C and Gajria, D and Irfan, H and Sharma, KK and Todkar, S and Patel, V and McCray, G}, title = {A non-specialist worker delivered digital assessment of cognitive development (DEEP) in young children: A longitudinal validation study in rural India.}, journal = {PLOS digital health}, volume = {4}, number = {5}, pages = {e0000824}, pmid = {40378360}, issn = {2767-3170}, abstract = {Cognitive development in early childhood is critical for life-long well-being. Existing cognitive development surveillance tools require lengthy parental interviews and observations of children. Developmental Assessment on an E-Platform (DEEP) is a digital tool designed to address this gap by providing a gamified, direct assessment of cognition in young children which can be delivered by front-line providers in community settings. This longitudinal study recruited children from the SPRING trial in rural Haryana, India. DEEP was administered at 39 (SD 1; N = 1359), 60 (SD 5; N = 1234) and 95 (SD 4; N = 600) months and scores were derived using item response theory. Criterion validity was examined by correlating DEEP-score with age, Bayley's Scales of Infant Development (BSID-III) cognitive domain score at age 3 and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM) at age 8; predictive validity was examined by correlating DEEP-scores at preschool-age with academic performance at age 8 and convergent validity through correlations with height-for-age z-scores (HAZ), socioeconomic status (SES) and early life adversities. DEEP-score correlated strongly with age (r = 0.83, 95% CI 0.82 0.84) and moderately with BSID-III (r = 0.50, 0.39 - 0.60) and CPM (r = 0.37; 0.30 - 0.44). DEEP-score at preschool-age predicted academic outcomes at school-age (0.32; 0.25 - 0.41) and correlated positively with HAZ and SES and negatively with early life adversities. DEEP provides a valid, scalable method for cognitive assessment. It's integration into developmental surveillance programs could aid in monitoring and early detection of cognitive delays, enabling timely interventions.}, }
@article {pmid40372593, year = {2025}, author = {Loconsole, M and Schnell, AK and Garcia-Pelegrin, E and Clayton, NS}, title = {Uncertainty monitoring in Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {28}, number = {1}, pages = {37}, pmid = {40372593}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Uncertainty ; Animals ; Male ; *Metacognition ; Female ; Decision Making ; Memory, Short-Term ; Choice Behavior ; *Passeriformes ; Reward ; }, abstract = {Metacognition- namely the capacity to reflect on one's own cognitive processes - provides animals with numerous evolutionary advantages. Metacognition abilities encompass enhanced decision-making in uncertain situations, more efficient resource management, error detection and correction, and improved problem-solving skills. Here, we investigate how Eurasian jays, Garrulus glandarius, monitor uncertainty through a working memory food-retrieval task. In this task, a desirable food item is hidden under one of two cups, which are then shuffled either once (easy treatment) or several times (difficult treatment). The jays then choose to either engage in locating the food or opt out by selecting a third cup that offers a less preferred food reward. Our findings reveal that the difficulty of the task significantly influenced the jays' choice, with a higher tendency to opt out during difficult trials. Individual performance analysis revealed that when jays that typically opted out of difficult trials chose to engage instead, they exhibited significant accuracy. This suggests their decisions were guided by a confidence assessment of their knowledge. Overall, our study indicates that Eurasian jays possess metacognitive abilities that enable them to evaluate their own certainty and make strategic decisions based on perceived task difficulty and confidence in their knowledge. These capabilities likely confer advantages in natural settings, such as caching behaviours, allowing jays to make well-informed decisions about when to store or retrieve food based on environmental cues and internal assessments of uncertainty.}, }
@article {pmid40368805, year = {2025}, author = {Tokuda, T and Yoshioka, N and Tanaka, A and Kojima, S and Yamaguchi, K and Yanagiuchi, T and Ogata, K and Takei, T and Nakama, T}, title = {Comparison of Stent Strategy and Drug-Coated Balloon After JETSTREAM for Severely Calcified Femoropopliteal Artery Disease (CORVUS Study).}, journal = {Circulation journal : official journal of the Japanese Circulation Society}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1253/circj.CJ-25-0087}, pmid = {40368805}, issn = {1347-4820}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study compared procedural complications, patency, and adverse events between a stent strategy and drug-coated balloon (DCB) treatment after using the JETSTREAM atherectomy device for severely calcified femoropopliteal (FP) lesions.<br><br>METHODS AND RESULTS: We retrospectively analyzed multicenter data from 588 patients who underwent endovascular therapy for severely calcified de novo FP lesions between April 2018 and December 2023 at 8 centers in Japan. Patients were categorized into 2 groups based on the revascularization method: stent strategy and DCB after JETSTREAM atherectomy. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to compare primary patency, clinically driven target lesion revascularization (CD-TLR), and the occurrence of acute limb ischemia (ALI)/major amputation at 1 year. After PSM, 82 matched pairs of patients were identified, with no significant intergroup differences in baseline characteristics. The rates of primary patency, CD-TLR, ALI, and major amputation were similar between the 2 groups. However, the rate of distal embolization was significantly higher in the DCB after JETSTREAM group. (18.3% vs. 1.2%; P<0.001) Baseline characteristics had no interaction effects on the association between the 2 strategies and the 1-year restenosis risk.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: DCB after JETSTREAM atherectomy demonstrated comparable safety, except for distal embolization, and high efficacy in patients with severely calcified FP lesions, suggesting that it may be an alternative revascularization method to the stent strategy.}, }
@article {pmid40357133, year = {2025}, author = {Giri, T and Garcia-Pelegrin, E}, title = {Opportunistic Tool Use by Two Unexpected Corvid Species.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {e71314}, pmid = {40357133}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {This Nature note reports the first documented instance of tool use in Sunda crows (Corvus enca) and provides additional evidence of this ability in house crows (Corvus splendens). At Singapore Zoo (December 2023), individuals from both species spontaneously manipulated a hooked stick to extract food rewards from enclosed containers. This observation extends the catalogue of tool-using corvids. We briefly review tool use across the corvid family and examine competing hypotheses regarding its evolution, including inherited predisposition from a tool-using ancestor and the development of general physical intelligence with food caching as a potential precursor. Our findings suggest that the cognitive foundation for tool use may be conserved across the corvid family, with expression contingent upon environmental demands rather than species-specific adaptations. This work contributes to ongoing discussions regarding the evolutionary origins of complex problem-solving in birds and the potential role of general physical intelligence in corvid cognition.}, }
@article {pmid40341629, year = {2025}, author = {Piao, JZ and Lee, JH and Hu, KS and Kim, HJ}, title = {Positional Relationship Between the Orbicularis Oculi and Zygomaticus Complex Muscles by Ultrasonography: New Anatomical Insights for Crow's Feet Injection.}, journal = {Clinical anatomy (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1002/ca.24290}, pmid = {40341629}, issn = {1098-2353}, support = {NRF-RS-2023-00279373//National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF)/ ; }, abstract = {The orbicularis oculi muscle (OOc) is strongly associated with facial aging as its contraction causes the formation of crow's feet. Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) injection is a representative treatment targeting muscle. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the anatomical relationship between the OOc and the zygomaticus complex muscles, and to visualize the distribution of the facial nerve that innervates the OOc, thereby providing reference data for BoNT injections targeting that muscle. The positional relationships and overlapping ranges between the OOc, zygomaticus minor (Zmi), and zygomaticus major (ZMj), and their distances from the skin, were measured on four different perpendicular planes using ultrasonography. Specimens of the OOc were stained with modified Sihler's stain. The mean distances between the lateral canthus horizontal plane (LCHP) and the zygomaticus complex muscles superior margin were 20.0, 17.9, 22.8, and 20.8 mm in perpendicular planes LC (lateral canthus), OR (orbital rim), M (midpoint of the frontal process of zygomatic bone), and J (Jugale point), respectively. The mean distances between the OOc and the skin were 4.9, 4.8, 5.5, and 4.7 mm in those perpendicular planes. The mean distances between the zygomaticus complex muscles and the OOc were 3.0, 3.1, 4.5, and 4.1 mm. The authors propose new insights for crow's feet injection based on anatomical information obtained from ultrasonography and Sihler's staining, which should contribute to minimizing complications and improving the efficacy of BoNT administration.}, }
@article {pmid40341248, year = {2025}, author = {Zhao, J and Tang, J and Wang, Z and Munir, S and Jiao, R and Li, J and Chao, K and Wan, Q and Wang, L and Ye, C}, title = {Extraction, analysis, and antifungal activity study of algae antibiotic active substances in plateau lakes.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {20}, number = {5}, pages = {e0319853}, doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0319853}, pmid = {40341248}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {*Antifungal Agents/pharmacology/isolation &amp; purification/chemistry ; *Lakes ; Polyphenols/pharmacology/isolation &amp; purification/chemistry ; Fusarium/drug effects ; Tandem Mass Spectrometry ; Chlorella vulgaris/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/isolation &amp; purification/chemistry ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid ; }, abstract = {This study was carried out to assess the inhibitory activity of algae in plateau lakes against plant pathogenic fungi, and further conduct preliminary research and analysis on their antifungal active ingredients, in order to provide a certain basis for the development and utilization of algal secondary metabolite as anti-plant pathogenic fungal agents. Different solvent extraction methods using water, ethyl acetate, ethanol, and methanol were conducted to extract polyphenol metabolites from Ulothrix, Chlorella vulgaris, and Microcystis pseudofilamentosa Crow. The composition of the extracts was analyzed based on the UPLC-MS/MS detection platform, and the antifungal activity was determined. The results showed that the content of polyphenol metabolites extracted from Ulothrix using methanol was the highest, followed by ethyl acetate and ethanol. The water extraction method resulted in the highest loss of polyphenolic metabolites. Three species of Fusarium oxysporum were used as indicator fungus to determine the antifungal activities of algae extracts. The three types of algae extracts showed good antimicrobial effects on F. oxysporum. The polyphenol metabolites extracted from Ulothrix using methanol demonstrated the strongest antifungal activity, with up to 20 mm in diameter of inhibition zone. The metabolite with the weakest antifungal activity was M. pseudofilamentosa Crow, with an 8-mm diameter of inhibition zone. Based on the UPLC-MS/MS detection, 242 polyphenol metabolites were initially identified in the methanol extracts of the three algae, including 160 phenolic acids, 32 flavonoids, 17 flavonols, 7 dihydroflavones, 2 dihydroflavonols, 2 chalcones, 2 flavanols, 5 flavonoids, 5 lignans, and 10 coumarins. Principal component analysis, fold change analysis, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis were used to conduct differential metabolite screening and related metabolic pathway enrichment. The methanol extract samples of the three algae were mainly classified into two categories. Ten important differential metabolites and 15 important metabolic pathways were obtained. In addition, the methanol extracts of Ulothrix contained the largest variety of phenolic acid compounds, with a total of 75 phenolic acid compounds detected, which was followed by C. vulgaris, with 44 phenolic acid compounds detected, and M. pseudofilamentosa Crow, with 37 phenolic acid compounds. Compared with phenolic acid compounds, the quantitative differences of other polyphenols were smaller. Based on these results and those from the antifungal experimental analysis, phenolic acids in algae polyphenol metabolites are the main antifungal active ingredients.}, }
@article {pmid40340778, year = {2025}, author = {Waddington, JL}, title = {From genetics and cerebral asymmetry, through motor dysfunction intrinsic to psychosis, to early intervention: elaborating the seminal contributions of Timothy J. Crow.}, journal = {Psychological medicine}, volume = {55}, number = {}, pages = {e143}, doi = {10.1017/S0033291725001254}, pmid = {40340778}, issn = {1469-8978}, }
@article {pmid40340205, year = {2025}, author = {Labbe, D and Alsajjan, H and Abdulshakoor, A}, title = {Comparison of classic vs double concentrated dose botulinum toxin injections in the treatment of crow's feet.}, journal = {Annales de chirurgie plastique et esthetique}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1016/j.anplas.2025.03.005}, pmid = {40340205}, issn = {1768-319X}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: When it comes to administering botulinum toxin for treating rhytids, a standard approach is usually used by most providers in terms of dose concentration. The aim of this study is to compare the outcomes of a classic, none double concentrated dose vs. a double concentrated dose for treating crow's feet.<br><br>METHOD: We have injected the orbicularis oculi in a series of 10 patients with the left side as a control side using the classically concentrated dose (2 units per 0.5cm[3]) compared to the double concentrated dose on the right (2 units per 0.25cm[3]). The injections were administered using an auto-injecting syringe.<br><br>RESULTS: On control day 14, we noticed that the majority of patients had a more apparent reduction in wrinkles on the left-classically concentrated-side (wrinkling appeared to be more prominent on the double concentration right side). A benefit noticed in some patients was a more symmetrical appearance of periorbital rhytids and sometimes the eyebrows with the uneven doses.<br><br>CONCLUSION: We found that injecting a double concentrated dose of botulinum toxin does not necessarily mean better reduction in the appearance of wrinkles even with the retrograde injection technique. However, certain implications may be found in tailoring the dosing of botulinum toxin depending on the needs of the patient on opposite sides of the face as opposed to unifying the dose for both sides.}, }
@article {pmid40339952, year = {2025}, author = {Perales, A and Aviño, J and Diaz-Martinez, A and Conde-Agudelo, A and Romero, R and Rojo, L and Serra, V}, title = {Prenatal exposure to vaginal progesterone for the prevention of preterm birth is not associated with abnormal psychopathological and cognitive profiles in dichorionic twins at 6 to 9 years of age: a follow-up study of a randomized controlled trial.}, journal = {American journal of obstetrics and gynecology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1016/j.ajog.2025.04.056}, pmid = {40339952}, issn = {1097-6868}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Current evidence indicates that administration of vaginal progesterone to women with a twin gestation and a short cervix reduces the risk of preterm birth occurring at early gestational ages and of neonatal morbidity and mortality. However, the potential long-term effects of prenatal administration of vaginal progesterone for preventing preterm birth on the psychopathological and cognitive profiles of twins remain unknown.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the psychopathological and cognitive profiles at 6 to 9 years of age of surviving children born to mothers who participated in a randomized controlled trial that compared two different daily doses of vaginal progesterone (200 mg and 400 mg) to placebo to prevent preterm birth in dichorionic twin gestations.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: This is a follow-up study from a multicenter, double-blind, randomized controlled trial with three parallel groups (placebo, vaginal progesterone 200 mg/day, and vaginal progesterone 400 mg/day administered from 20 to 34 weeks of gestation or delivery, whichever came first; randomization ratio 1:1:1). The Child Behavior Checklist for ages 6 to 18 questionnaire and the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices test of non-verbal intelligence were applied to the participating mothers and their surviving children aged 6 to 9 years, respectively. The participant mothers, questionnaire collector, and database organizer were blinded to the intervention received in the original trial. The primary outcomes were behavioral, emotional, and social problems evaluated by the Child Behavior Checklist for ages 6 to 18 -18 questionnaire, and the intelligence coefficient percentile evaluated by the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices test. Analyses were performed on an intention-to-treat basis using descriptive and analytical tests. P values <0.05 were considered statistically significant.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 206 children born to 104 mothers (35.4% of those included in the original randomized controlled trial) were included in the study: 75 were exposed to vaginal progesterone 200 mg/d, 63 to vaginal progesterone 400 mg/d, and 68 to placebo. Overall, there were no significant differences in maternal sociodemographic, pregnancy and neonatal characteristics between participants and non-participants in the follow-up study, as well as between the three participating study groups. The mean scores of the 11 psychopathological syndrome scales evaluated by the Child Behavior Checklist for ages 6 to 18 questionnaire among children exposed to vaginal progesterone 200 mg/d, 400 mg/d or 200 &amp; 400 mg/d were not significantly different to those among children exposed to placebo. There were no significant differences in the mean total Child Behavior Checklist score between the vaginal progesterone groups (31.08 &#xb1; 22.58 for the 200 mg/d group, 37.48 &#xb1; 28.59 for the 400 mg/d group, and 34.00 &#xb1; 25.60 for the 200 &amp; 400 mg/d group) and the placebo group (34.60 &#xb1; 25.55) (P=0.38, 0.54, and 0.87, respectively). The mean percentiles of the Raven's test were slightly higher among children exposed to vaginal progesterone 200 mg/d (63.11 &#xb1; 27.03) and 400 mg/d (60.40 &#xb1; 31.51) than among those exposed to placebo (59.40 &#xb1; 30.64) although these differences were not statistically significant (P = 0.44 and 0.85, respectively).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Exposure to 200 or 400 mg/day of vaginal progesterone in the second half of pregnancy for preterm birth prevention, had no effect on the psychopathological and cognitive profiles of dichorionic twins at 6-9 years of age.}, }
@article {pmid40338023, year = {2025}, author = {Banks, S and Ware, IV and Dunson, A and Sibert, D and Nakayama, DK}, title = {Tragedy and Healing: The Impact of Two Black Surgeons in the Jim Crow South.}, journal = {Journal of the American College of Surgeons}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1097/XCS.0000000000001437}, pmid = {40338023}, issn = {1879-1190}, abstract = {In 1956, as racial conflict in the South reached a murderous climax, Thomas H. Brewer, Sr (1894-1956), a prominent Black physician and civic leader in Columbus, Georgia, was shot and killed by a White businessowner. When his assailant was released without charges, many of the town's Black physicians and professionals left town, fearing for their safety and unwilling to live under Jim Crow. In 1964, M. Delmar Edwards (1926-2009), graduating surgery resident at the nearby Tuskegee Veterans Administration Hospital, asked two White surgeons in Columbus-Seaborn Roddenbery, III, and Abraham Conger-to serve as preceptors over his last two years of training, a requirement for board certification. They agreed, and Edwards joined their practice. Edwards filled the void left by Brewer's death. He overcame White-only restrictions to the hospital medical staff, segregated wards, and professional shunning. He eventually served in leadership roles for the hospital, including chair of the department of surgery and vice president of the hospital system. Over the next decades, he encouraged more than 70 Black physicians to settle in Columbus as full members of the city's professional community. Their stories separated by only eight years, Brewer and Edwards embodied an inflection point in the civil rights movement: the transition between murderous injustice and the integration of the Black community into the social and political mainstream of the South brought on by a Supreme Court decision, an Act of Congress, and changes in the hearts of the American people.}, }
@article {pmid40334748, year = {2025}, author = {Pinar-Martí, A and Ayala-Aldana, N and Ruiz-Rivera, M and Lertxundi, N and Subiza, M and González-Safont, L and Vioque, J and Riaño-Galán, I and Rodríguez-Dehli, C and Iglesias-Vázquez, L and Arija, V and Fernández-Barrés, S and Romaguera, D and Pascual-Rubio, V and Fabregat-Sanjuan, A and Healy, D and Basagaña, X and Vrijheid, M and Guxens, M and Foraster, M and Julvez, J}, title = {Maternal prenatal nut and seafood consumption and child neuropsychological function from 4 to 15 years of age: a population-based cohort study.}, journal = {The American journal of clinical nutrition}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1016/j.ajcnut.2025.04.032}, pmid = {40334748}, issn = {1938-3207}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Understanding the role of maternal diet in early brain development is critical, as pregnancy represents a period of significant vulnerability and growth for the developing brain.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To assess the association between maternal nuts, total seafood and large fatty fish consumption during pregnancy and offspring neuropsychological function up to 15 years, considering the potential mediation of omega-3 fatty acids.<br><br>METHODS: This study was part of the Spanish Childhood and Environment (INMA) birth cohort, following 1737 mother-child pairs from pregnancy to age 15. Maternal diet was evaluated using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire, while children's neuropsychological function was measured through standardized computer-based tests. Attention (hit reaction time and its variability, HRT and HRT-SE) was measured with the Conners' Kiddie Continuous Performance Test and the Attention Network Test. Working memory (detectability in 2-back, d2', and 3-back tasks, d3') was evaluated using the N-back task. Fluid intelligence was assessed with Raven's Progressive Matrices and the Test of Primary Mental Abilities. Linear mixed-effects regression models assessed the association of nuts, seafood and large fatty fish with neuropsychological outcomes, while generalized structural equation modelling was used for mediation analyses.<br><br>RESULTS: Higher maternal nut consumption was significantly linked to improved attention (HRT-SE &#x3b2; = -0.05, 95%CI = -0.09; -0.00) and working memory (d2' &#x3b2; = 0.05, 95%CI = 0.00; 0.09, and d3' &#x3b2; = 0.06, 95%CI = 0.02; 0.11) in offspring. Greater consumption of large fatty fish was associated with better attention (HRT-SE &#x3b2; = -0.06, 95%CI = -0.10; -0.02; and HRT &#x3b2; = -0.04, 95%CI = -0.08; -0.00) and fluid intelligence (&#x3b2; = 0.08, 95%CI = 0.02; 0.13). Omega-3 fatty acids mediated 8-14% of these effects on attention.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Maternal diet at pregnancy and omega-3 intake may support long-term cognitive development in children and adolescents.}, }
@article {pmid40334149, year = {2025}, author = {Wang, JH and Sherry, AD and Bazyar, S and Sutera, P and Radwan, N and Phillips, RM and Deek, MP and Lu, J and Dipasquale, S and Deville, C and DeWeese, TL and Song, DY and Wang, H and Hobbs, RF and Malek, R and Dudley, SA and Greco, SC and Antonarakis, ES and Marshall, CH and Denmeade, S and Paller, CJ and Carducci, MA and Pienta, KJ and Oz, OK and Ramotar, M and Leenstra, JL and Park, SS and Abramowitz, MC and Desai, N and Berlin, A and Stish, BJ and Tang, C and Tran, PT and Kiess, AP}, title = {Outcomes of Radium-223 and Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy Versus Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy for Oligometastatic Prostate Cancers: The RAVENS Phase II Randomized Trial.}, journal = {Journal of clinical oncology : official journal of the American Society of Clinical Oncology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {JCO2500131}, doi = {10.1200/JCO-25-00131}, pmid = {40334149}, issn = {1527-7755}, abstract = {PURPOSE: Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) have shown progression-free survival (PFS) benefits of metastasis-directed therapy (MDT) without androgen deprivation therapy for oligometastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (omCSPC). Most patients with bone metastatic (BM) omCSPC recur with additional bone disease after MDT. We hypothesized the BM-targeting alpha-emitter radium-223 dichloride (Ra223) could target subclinical bone disease and delay progression.<br><br>METHODS: This is an investigator-initiated, multicenter, open-label phase II RCT. Eligible men with recurrent omCSPC with &#x2265;one bone metastasis (&#x2264;three on conventional imaging and/or &#x2264;five on molecular imaging) were randomly assigned (1:1) to stereotactic ablative radiation (SABR) MDT alone or SABR MDT with Ra223 (six cycles). Primary end point was composite PFS.<br><br>RESULTS: From August 9, 2019, to March 2, 2023, 64 patients were randomly assigned, 33 to SABR MDT and 31 to SABR MDT/Ra223 balancing for key covariates. Most SABR MDT/Ra223 patients (87%) received six cycles of Ra223. The median PFS was 11.8 months with SABR MDT and 10.5 months with SABR MDT/Ra223 (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.42 [95% CI, 0.79 to 2.56]; P = .24). Seven patients (11%) experienced grade 3 treatment-related adverse events (no grade 4 or 5), 2 of 33 (6%) with SABR and 5 of 30 (17%) with SABR MDT/Ra223. Patients with high-risk (HiRi) pathogenic mutations in ATM, BRCA1/2, RB1, or TP53 had worse PFS (HR, 5.95 [95% CI, 1.83 to 19.3]; P = .003). Greater T-cell receptor (TCR) unique productive rearrangements were prognostic for improved PFS independent of the treatment arm (aHR, 0.45 [95% CI, 0.21 to 0.96]; P = .04).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Adding Ra223 to SABR MDT in BM omCSPC does not delay progression of disease. We provide evidence for an HiRi mutational signature and TCR repertoire as prognostic biomarkers in omCSPC treated with SABR MDT, highlighting the importance of collecting biological correlates in RCTs for omCSPC.}, }
@article {pmid40320498, year = {2025}, author = {Smirnova, AA and Cheplakova, MA and Kubenko, KN}, title = {Some Hooded crows (Corvus cornix) understand how a loose string works.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {15569}, pmid = {40320498}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {23-28-00364//Russian Science Foundation/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows/physiology ; *Behavior, Animal/physiology ; }, abstract = {In a loose-string task an out-of-reach tray baited with food can only be retrieved by simultaneously pulling on both ends of a string threaded through the loops on the tray. This task is used to assess an animal's ability to cooperate, with each animal only having access to one end of the string. Some studies use the loose-string task in a pre-training phase, during which animals are individually taught to pull both ends of the string. Usually, no additional tests are conducted to determine whether the animals have understood how the loose string works. It is conceivable that a lack of knowledge of the causal basis of the loose-string task could make it more challenging to grasp how the partner can assist with it. Here, we tested whether Hooded crows could acquire some knowledge of the causal basis of the loose-string task. Prior to the critical test (Phase 3), the birds were presented with two different tasks (Phase 1 and Phase 2) to allow them to acquire some knowledge of the causal basis of the task. The results may indicate that, as a consequence of the experience gained, some crows may have begun to understand how the loose string works.}, }
@article {pmid40319179, year = {2025}, author = {Rajan, P and Goswami, D and Vanlalhmuaka,  and Datta, S and Rabha, B and Kamboj, DV}, title = {Acoustic behaviour and flight tone frequency changes in adult Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {15499}, pmid = {40319179}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; *Aedes/physiology ; *Culex/physiology ; *Flight, Animal/physiology ; Female ; Male ; Wings, Animal/physiology ; Acoustics ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Species-specific wingbeat frequency of mosquitoes has already been shown to be useful in species identification. However, mosquito identification using their fundamental wingbeat frequency requires proper evaluation along with its morphological and ecological characters. An acoustic study was carried out on four species of laboratory reared mosquitoes Aedes albopictus, Culex quinquefasciatus, Anopheles crawfordi, and Armigeres subalbatus. However, a detailed study on wingbeat frequency and its variation at different points of the adult life stages was conducted for Ae. albopictus and Cx. quinquefasciatus. Recorded wingbeat beat frequency during the different point of adult life stages was analyzed using the Raven Pro 1.6.1 sound analysis software. Result showed that there was a significant difference in the fundamental frequency between four study species (F = 81.62; df = 151; p < 0.001). Wingbeat frequency of Ae. albopictus and Cx. quinquefasciatus observed to be low immediately after emergence from the pupal stage and gradually became peak during the swarming stage which is considered as the species' fundamental frequency. These change in wingbeat frequency during the early adult stages leads to uncertainty in species identification based on the fundamental frequency. Swarming and pairing activities in Cx. quinquefasciatus and Ae. albopictus exclusively depends on the convergence between male first harmonics (M1) and female second harmonics (F2) of their fundamental frequency and make combined harmonic frequency at 1400-1500 Hz. Interestingly, this study observed that the frequency of adult male and early stages of female did not converge at the M1-F2 harmonics, thereby preventing successful mating. It thus infers that the wingbeat frequency of active male and female have significant role in the selection of potential mates within the species.}, }
@article {pmid40316871, year = {2025}, author = {Veit, W and Browning, H and Garcia-Pelegrin, E and Davies, JR and DuBois, JG and Clayton, NS}, title = {Dimensions of corvid consciousness.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {28}, number = {1}, pages = {35}, pmid = {40316871}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {*Consciousness ; Animals ; Animal Welfare ; *Crows ; }, abstract = {Corvids have long been a target of public fascination and of scientific attention, particularly in the study of animal minds. Using Birch et al.'s (2020) 5-dimensional framework for animal consciousness we ask what it is like to be a corvid and propose a speculative but empirically informed answer. We go on to suggest future directions for research on corvid consciousness and how it can inform ethical treatment and animal welfare legislation.}, }
@article {pmid40309632, year = {2025}, author = {Yusuf, MA and Ranjan, R and Adhikary, D and Moureen, A and Hakim, M}, title = {Association of Paternal Diabetes With Hemorrhagic Stroke in Bangladeshi Women: The MAGPIE Study.}, journal = {Health science reports}, volume = {8}, number = {5}, pages = {e70809}, pmid = {40309632}, issn = {2398-8835}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hemorrhagic stroke (HS) accounts for ~10% of all first-time strokes, with an increasing incidence in Asia and a scarcity of information available about sex-related differences. This study investigates the independent predictors of HS among Bangladeshi women.<br><br>METHODS: The Multidimensional Approach of Genotype and Phenotype in Stroke Etiology (MAGPIE) study is a Bangladeshi observational study that recruited nationwide HS patients between 2022 and 2024. We utilized univariate analysis to identify risk patterns in the data sets, whereas a multivariate logistic regression (LR) analysis identified the independent predictors of HS in women.<br><br>RESULTS: We evaluated a total of 1080 hemorrhagic patients with female predominance (59.5%) and similar age of onset to males (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.38). Although males had significantly higher rates of hypertension (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001), diabetes (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.008), chronic constipation (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.03), and systolic blood pressure (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001), females were found to have significantly higher body mass index (23.1&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;3.1 vs. 21.4&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;2.9; p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001) and paternal diabetes (9.6% vs. 4.8%; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.004) compared to male. Further, the age-adjusted multivariate LR model found paternal diabetes (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2-3.5, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.007) as a potential independent predictor of HS in females compared to males. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve of 0.67 (95% CI 0.63-0.70, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001) with 67.7% sensitivity and 58.2% specificity presents the goodness of fit of the model.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Bangladeshi women with a history of paternal diabetes have a 2.1-fold heightened risk of HS than men.}, }
@article {pmid40308392, year = {2025}, author = {Elhaddad, M and Carrillo-Kashani, A and Tavakalyan, K and Massaband, BD}, title = {Dufourmentel Rhomboid Flap for Plantar Charcot Midfoot Ulcer: A Novel Reconstructive Approach.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {17}, number = {3}, pages = {e81484}, pmid = {40308392}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {Chronic plantar ulcers in Charcot neuropathic osteoarthropathy (CNO) present a significant challenge in limb salvage due to biomechanical instability, poor tissue quality, and high mechanical stress at weight-bearing sites. Traditional surgical techniques, such as exostectomy and tendo-Achilles lengthening (TAL), effectively redistribute plantar pressure but often fail to provide durable soft tissue coverage. This study describes the first documented use of a Dufourmentel rhomboid flap for reconstructing a chronic plantar midfoot ulcer in a 59-year-old female with CNO and poorly controlled diabetes. The patient presented with a non-healing ulcer over a prominent osseous deformity, complicated by advanced neuropathy and a rocker-bottom foot. Surgical intervention included TAL, exostectomy, and meticulous wound debridement, followed by primary closure using a Dufourmentel flap to achieve tension-free, durable coverage. Postoperatively, the patient was managed with strict immobilization using a total contact cast and transitioned to a Charcot Restraint Orthotic Walker (CROW) boot. Despite partial non-compliance with weight-bearing restrictions, the wound healed completely by six months, with no recurrence. This case highlights the Dufourmentel flap as an innovative and effective reconstructive option for complex plantar ulcers in CNO, offering enhanced soft tissue resilience and long-term stability. The integration of TAL, exostectomy, and biomechanically optimized wound closure provides a comprehensive approach to limb salvage in high-risk diabetic patients. Further research is warranted to evaluate the flap's long-term outcomes and broader applicability in Charcot foot reconstruction.}, }
@article {pmid40308131, year = {2025}, author = {Aplin, L and Crates, R and Flack, A and McGregor, P}, title = {Social learning and culture in birds: emerging patterns and relevance to conservation.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {380}, number = {1925}, pages = {20240128}, doi = {10.1098/rstb.2024.0128}, pmid = {40308131}, issn = {1471-2970}, support = {//Swiss Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI)/ ; //New South Wales Local Land Services under the Commonwealth of Australia's National Landcare program/ ; //Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Social Learning ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; *Birds/physiology ; *Social Behavior ; *Culture ; }, abstract = {There is now abundant evidence for a role of social learning and culture in shaping behaviour in a range of avian species across multiple contexts, from migration routes in geese and foraging behaviour in crows, to passerine song. Recent emerging evidence has further linked culture to fitness outcomes in some birds, highlighting its potential importance for conservation. Here, we first summarize the state of knowledge on social learning and culture in birds, focusing on the best-studied contexts of migration, foraging, predation and song. We identify extensive knowledge gaps for some taxa but argue that existing evidence suggests that: (i) social learning and culture are taxonomically clustered and that (ii) reliance on social learning in one behavioural domain does not predict reliance across others. Together, we use this to build a predictive framework to aid conservationists in species-specific decision-making under imperfect knowledge. Second, we review evidence for a link between culture and conservation in birds. We argue that understanding which behaviours birds are likely to learn socially can help refine conservation strategies, improving the trajectories of threatened populations. Last, we present practical steps for how consideration of culture can be integrated into conservation actions including reintroductions, translocations and captive breeding programmes.This article is part of the theme issue 'Animal culture: conservation in a changing world'.}, }
@article {pmid40304112, year = {2025}, author = {Coban, I and Erkmen, FY and Aktaş, GD}, title = {Dynamic Periocular Wrinkle Patterns: An Anatomical Study on Young Adults.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {24}, number = {5}, pages = {e70215}, pmid = {40304112}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {294//Scientific Research Projects Board of Izmir Democracy University/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Skin Aging/physiology ; Male ; Young Adult ; Adolescent ; Photography ; *Face/anatomy &amp; histology ; Healthy Volunteers ; Eyelids/anatomy &amp; histology ; Observer Variation ; Reproducibility of Results ; Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Aging causes facial wrinkles, especially dynamic wrinkles related to mimic movements, predisposing areas to static wrinkles from a young age, notably in the periorbital region. This study aims to analyze dynamic wrinkle patterns on periorbital skin during mimic movements in healthy young adults to identify wrinkle precursor regions.<br><br>METHODS: Dynamic periorbital wrinkle patterns were analyzed in 184 healthy adults (93 females, 91 males) aged 18-24&#x2009;years. Standardized facial photographs were taken at rest and during various mimic movements. The periorbital region was divided into superior, inferior, lateral, and medial subregions; wrinkle patterns were classified and analyzed. Interobserver and intraobserver reliability were assessed.<br><br>RESULTS: In the upper periorbital region, the most common wrinkle pattern was oblique lines extending from the medial and lateral canthus to the upper corners (Type 3, 56%). Inferiorly, the most common pattern was a linear wave from the lateral canthus to the lateral margin (Type 3, 25.5%). Medially, no specific pattern (Type 6, 33.2%) and an arrowhead-like motif directed toward the medial canthus (Type 2, 20.7%) were prevalent. Laterally, radial waves extending from the lateral canthus to the lateral brow tip were most common (Type 1, 34.8%). The absence of a distinct wrinkle pattern in the medial region was more common in men than in women (48.4% vs. 17.6%). Males were more likely to have wrinkle patterns consisting of oblique short lines in the inferolateral direction in the inferior region (Type 2, 31.2%). Miniature crow's feet-like wrinkles were more common in females.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study presents a new classification of dynamic wrinkle patterns in the periorbital region in young adults, highlighting sex differences.}, }
@article {pmid40303116, year = {2024}, author = {Sohier, C and Breman, FC and Vervaeke, M and De Regge, N}, title = {West Nile Virus Monitoring in Flanders (Belgium) During 2022-2023 Reveals Endemic Usutu Virus Circulation in Birds.}, journal = {Transboundary and emerging diseases}, volume = {2024}, number = {}, pages = {4146156}, pmid = {40303116}, issn = {1865-1682}, mesh = {Animals ; Belgium/epidemiology ; *West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification ; *Bird Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; *West Nile Fever/veterinary/epidemiology/virology ; Birds ; *Flavivirus Infections/veterinary/epidemiology/virology ; *Flavivirus/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {The recent emergence of West Nile virus (WNV) and Usutu virus (USUV) in some European countries has triggered an increase in animal and human cases across Europe. Wild birds, serving as key reservoirs for WNV and USUV, often act as crucial indicators for the introduction and spread of these viruses. Currently, there is no durable large-scale monitoring for WNV in Belgium, and specific monitoring for USUV is lacking. In Flanders, passive WNV monitoring in birds has been in place for many years, while initial efforts to initiate active monitoring started in 2022. Here, we present the results of a limited study conducted during the vector seasons of 2022 and 2023 in Flemish bird populations to actively and passively monitor the prevalence of WNV and additionally assess the presence of USUV. Several real-time reverse transcription-PCR tests were employed for virus detection, revealing the absence of WNV-RNA during both vector seasons. Conversely, USUV-RNA was identified in 2022 through active surveillance, affecting two (5.5%) out of 36 birds (Corvus corone), and in passive surveillance, impacting eight (72.7%) out of 11 birds (Turdus merula [6] and Rhea pennata [2]). In 2023, active surveillance was more extensive and identified 16 (7.2%) USUV-RNA positive birds (Buteo buteo [1], T. merula [14] and Athene noctua [1]) out of 222 examined birds, while passive surveillance detected two (7.1%) positive birds (T. merula [1], and Larus marinus [1]) out of 28. Viral sequence information was obtained from seven USUV-positive birds using whole genome sequencing or Sanger sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis placed all identified strains within the Africa 3 lineage. This restricted WVN monitoring effort in Flanders did not reveal WNV presence, but found indications of an endemic USUV circulation in Belgium. It is crucial to intensify monitoring efforts for WNV in the coming years, considering its endemic status in several European countries and its expanding geographical range in northern Europe.}, }
@article {pmid40284799, year = {2025}, author = {Wang, Y and Cui, Q and Hou, Y and He, S and Zhao, W and Lancuo, Z and Sharshov, K and Wang, W}, title = {Metagenomic Insights into the Diverse Antibiotic Resistome of Non-Migratory Corvidae Species on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau.}, journal = {Veterinary sciences}, volume = {12}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {40284799}, issn = {2306-7381}, support = {2022-HZ-812//the program of science and technology international cooperation project of Qinghai province/ ; }, abstract = {Antibiotic resistance represents a global health crisis with far-reaching implications, impacting multiple domains concurrently, including human health, animal health, and the natural environment. Wild birds were identified as carriers and disseminators of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and their associated antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). A majority of studies in this area have concentrated on migratory birds as carriers for the spread of antibiotic resistance over long distances. However, there has been scant research on the resistome of non-migratory Corvidae species that heavily overlap with human activities, which limits our understanding of antibiotic resistance in these birds and hinders the development of effective management strategies. This study employed a metagenomics approach to examine the characteristics of ARGs and mobile genetic elements (MGEs) in five common Corvidae species inhabiting the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. The ARGs were classified into 20 major types and 567 subtypes. Notably, ARGs associated with multidrug resistance, including to macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramins, tetracyclines, beta-lactam, and bacitracin, were particularly abundant, with the subtypes acrB, bacA, macB, class C beta-lactamase, and tetA being especially prevalent. A total of 5 types of MGEs (166 subtypes) were identified across five groups of crows, and transposase genes, which indicated the presence of transposons, were identified as the most abundant type of MGEs. Moreover, some common opportunistic pathogens were identified as potential hosts for these ARGs and MGEs. Procrustes analysis and co-occurrence network analysis showed that the composition of the gut microbiota shaped the ARGs and MGEs, indicating a substantial association between these factors. The primary resistance mechanisms of ARGs in crows were identified as multidrug efflux pumps, alteration of antibiotic targets, and enzymatic inactivation. High-risk ARGs which were found to potentially pose significant risks to public health were also analyzed and resulted in the identification of 81 Rank I and 47 Rank II ARGs. Overall, our study offers a comprehensive characterization of the resistome in wild Corvidae species, enhancing our understanding of the potential public health risks associated with these birds.}, }
@article {pmid40303696, year = {2023}, author = {Ito, S and Bosch, J and Aguilar-Vega, C and Isoda, N and Martínez-Avilés, M and Sánchez-Vizcaíno, JM}, title = {Development of an Effective Oral Vaccine Dissemination Strategy against Classical Swine Fever for Wild Boar in Gifu Prefecture, Japan.}, journal = {Transboundary and emerging diseases}, volume = {2023}, number = {}, pages = {9484441}, pmid = {40303696}, issn = {1865-1682}, mesh = {Animals ; *Classical Swine Fever/prevention &amp; control/epidemiology ; Swine ; Japan/epidemiology ; Administration, Oral ; *Sus scrofa ; *Viral Vaccines/administration &amp; dosage/immunology ; *Classical Swine Fever Virus/immunology ; }, abstract = {In September 2018, classical swine fever (CSF) reemerged in Japan after more than a quarter of a century. After the first notification on a pig farm, wild boars positive for CSF were found continuously in the surrounding area. Gifu was the first prefecture in Japan to disseminate oral vaccines to wild boars in March 2019, with vaccines spread to approximately 14,000 sites between 2019 and 2020. While these diligent measures seemed to have shown some effectiveness, several vaccine spray sites remained without wild boar emergence. Based on the vaccine dissemination records from these periods, this study conducted a statistical analysis to propose more effective vaccine dissemination sites. First, a generalized linear mixed model was used to identify factors correlated with wild boar emergence. Then, two spatial interpolation methods, inverse distance weighted (IDW) and Kriging, were adopted to create a probability map of wild boar emergence for the entire Gifu Prefecture. The analysis showed a positive correlation between wild boar emergence and the appearance of raccoons, raccoon dogs, and crows as well as road density and wild boar distribution index. In particular, raccoon (OR: 1.83, 95%CI: 1.25-2.68, p < 0.001), raccoon dog (OR: 1.81, 95%CI: 1.25-2.66, p < 0.001), and medium level road density (OR: 1.56, 95%CI: 1.04-2.39, p = 0.04) were strongly correlated with wild boar emergence. The spatial interpolation approach resulted in better prediction accuracy for the Kriging method than for IDW by the root mean square error, but both approaches identified a high wild boar appearance probability area in southeastern Gifu and a low appearance probability area in central Gifu. Here we have demonstrated a tool to effectively disperse oral vaccine to wildlife.}, }
@article {pmid40278933, year = {2025}, author = {Beauchamp, G and Bakley, TD and Fitzpatrick, JW and Barve, S}, title = {Food, weather, and population density, not number of helpers, drive overwinter survival in Florida Scrub-Jays.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {207}, number = {5}, pages = {68}, pmid = {40278933}, issn = {1432-1939}, mesh = {Animals ; Population Density ; *Weather ; Florida ; Seasons ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; }, abstract = {Survival is affected by many ecological factors including food, weather, population density, and predation pressure, but documenting survival rates together with all these associated variables requires long-term observational and ecological data from a large, marked population. We used 33 years of data on Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) demography, local weather, and food availability to assess determinants of jay survival during the non-breeding season (September to February). We used the known-fate model from program MARK to analyze the probability of survival for breeders and juveniles while independently testing multiple covariates. Breeder survival increased when territory size was larger, decreased when local population density was higher, and did not vary with mean daily minimum temperature in the winter. Juvenile survival slightly increased with mean daily minimum temperature in the winter but showed no association with territory size or local population density. For both breeders and juveniles, odds of survival increased with presence of both breeders in the territory and higher acorn availability, and decreased with higher total winter rainfall. Neither breeder nor juvenile survival was correlated with number of helpers or juveniles in the group. Our results emphasize the importance of environmental variables in driving adult and juvenile survival in this declining endangered bird.}, }
@article {pmid40278429, year = {2025}, author = {Heled, E and Levi, O and Strobinsky, E and Zeilig, G}, title = {Non-Verbal Working Memory in Post-Stroke Motor Aphasia: A Pilot Study Using the Tactual Span.}, journal = {Neurology international}, volume = {17}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/neurolint17040058}, pmid = {40278429}, issn = {2035-8385}, abstract = {Background: Working memory (WM) impairment is a potential consequence of motor aphasia resulting from left-hemisphere ischemic stroke. While verbal WM has been studied extensively in this disorder, research regarding non-verbal modalities remains limited, particularly visuospatial WM, tactile WM, and the relationship between them. Additionally, language impairments limit the ability to assess WM in aphasia patients, highlighting the necessity of non-verbal diagnostic tools in clinical practice. The current study's objectives were to compare tactile and visuospatial WM in patients with post-stroke motor aphasia and to validate the one-hand version of the Tactual Span task as a clinical measure of WM. Methods: A total of 29 participants-14 with post-stroke motor aphasia and 15 healthy controls-completed a battery of cognitive tests, including the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices Test, the Visuospatial Span, the Tactual Span, and a visual 1-Back task. Results: There was significantly lower performance across all WM tasks in the aphasia group compared to the controls. Additionally, the Tactual Span successfully discriminated between patients and controls, showing sensitivity estimates of 92.9% and a specificity of 66.7%, with a cut-off score of 4.5 (AUC = 0.91), for the forward stage. The backward stage revealed a sensitivity of 71.4% and a specificity of 73.3%, with a cut-off score of 3.5 (AUC = 0.83). Conclusions: The findings may suggest that non-verbal WM impairment in post-stroke aphasia affects both visuospatial and tactile modalities similarly. Furthermore, the Tactual Span appears to be sensitive to left-hemisphere stroke damage, suggesting its potential utility as a clinical tool for WM assessment in patients with motor aphasia.}, }
@article {pmid40271352, year = {2025}, author = {Liu, H and Zhang, D and Zhu, Y and Ma, H and Xiao, H}, title = {Emotions spread like contagious diseases.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {16}, number = {}, pages = {1493512}, pmid = {40271352}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Emotional contagion, that is, the spontaneous synchronization of emotions among individuals, is the basic mechanism of social cohesion and survival of different species. Emotional contagion can be observed in humans and many animals, and it has become an effective means to protect individuals from danger. The study of emotional contagion in different animals is of evolutionary significance, and in human society, emotional contagion has an important impact on mental health and group behavior. However, the existing research still has obvious shortcomings in the similarities and differences of cross-species emotional contagion, the communication dynamics in virtual space and the infectious effect of positive emotions. This paper reviews the mechanisms of emotional contagion in different species, such as rodents, nonhuman primates, dogs, crows and zebrafish, highlighting evolutionary conservatism and species-specific adaptation, and analyzes the role of human children's behavioral mimicry in its early development. Furthermore, we extend the discussion of emotional contagion to virtual social networks, revealing the unique communication mechanism in online environment. In addition, by combing the sociological model and the emerging neurocognitive model, the complex process of emotional contagion can be explained more comprehensively. Through multidisciplinary perspective, it provides systematic theoretical and empirical support for us to understand emotional contagion.}, }
@article {pmid40269659, year = {2025}, author = {Emmerich, E and Alcantara, E and Úngari, L and O'Dwyer, L and Pérez-Ponce de León, G and Silva, R}, title = {First integrative assessment of Ochetosoma heterocoelium (Travassos, 1921) (Digenea: Ochetosomatidae) parasite of Bothrops moojeni Hoge, 1966 (Reptilia: Viperidae) from Brazil.}, journal = {Journal of helminthology}, volume = {99}, number = {}, pages = {e57}, doi = {10.1017/S0022149X25000343}, pmid = {40269659}, issn = {1475-2697}, mesh = {Animals ; Brazil ; Phylogeny ; *Bothrops/parasitology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 28S/genetics ; *Trematoda/genetics/classification/isolation &amp; purification/anatomy &amp; histology/ultrastructure ; DNA, Helminth/genetics/chemistry ; DNA, Ribosomal/genetics/chemistry ; *Trematode Infections/veterinary/parasitology ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Electron Transport Complex IV/genetics ; Mouth/parasitology ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Esophagus/parasitology ; Venomous Snakes ; }, abstract = {Ochetosoma heterocoelium (Travassos, 1921) was collected from the mouth and oesophagus of a pit viper, Bothrops moojeni Hoge, 1966 in São Sebastião do Paraíso Farm (21°51'48.26" S, 48°26'56.78" W), municipality of Boa Esperança do Sul, São Paulo State, Brazil. In this study, we provide the first molecular characterisation of this digenean using 28S rDNA and COI sequences, and its phylogenetic position within the Plagiorchiida is assessed. Furthermore, new morphological features are added to the diagnosis of the species, and scanning electron microscopy photomicrographs are presented. Sequences of the 28S rRNA gene of O. heterocoelium were successfully obtained and aligned with 35 digenean species belonging to Plagiorchiida. Only three congeners - O. aniarum (Leidy, 1890), O elongatum (Seo et al. 2024), and O. kansense (Crow, 1913) - have been sequenced for this molecular marker. The newly sequenced individuals of O. heterocoelium are 98.7% and 99.4% similar to O. aniarum and O. kansensis, respectively, and Ochetosoma is not recovered as a monophyletic group. Dasymetra nicolli Holl and Allison, 1935 and Lechriorchis tygarti Talbot, 1933 are nested with Ochetosoma.}, }
@article {pmid40268688, year = {2025}, author = {Buniyaadi, A and Prabhat, A and Bhardwaj, SK and Kumar, V}, title = {Role of melatonin in physiological mitigation of sleep disruption in an unnatural temporal environment.}, journal = {Journal of neuroendocrinology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {e70035}, doi = {10.1111/jne.70035}, pmid = {40268688}, issn = {1365-2826}, support = {//Indian National Science Academy, New Delhi/ ; }, abstract = {Illuminated nights reduce melatonin peak and disrupt sleep. Using this as the basis of the present experimental paradigm, we investigated whether nocturnal melatonin levels were crucial for sleep regulation in a diurnal vertebrate. Acclimated Indian house crows (Corvus splendens) were randomly segregated into three groups of 12 each. For the next 10 days, one group was maintained on 12 L:12 D, as before (LD control); for the other two groups, the absolute darkness was replaced with dim light at night (dLAN; L = ~150 lux, D = ~6 lux). Under dLAN, half an hour before light off time, the LD control and one dLAN group received intraperitoneally 200 μL of vehicle (0.75% physiological saline), while the other dLAN group received a similar 200 μL vehicle but containing melatonin at a dose of 50 μg bird[-1] day[-1]. Under dLAN, exogenous melatonin elevated nocturnal AANAT mRNA and plasma melatonin levels and induced changes in diurnal expressions of clock genes (PER2, CRY1, BMAL1, NPAS2, REVERB) in the pineal gland and hypothalamus, and of genes encoding melatonin receptors (MEL1a, MEL1b) and epigenetic modifiers (HAT1, HDAC2, HDAC4, DNMT3a) in the hypothalamus. Elevated nocturnal melatonin levels bettered sleep with positive effects on the hypothalamic expression of genes associated with nocturnal sleep (cytokine pathway: TLR4, TNFα, IL-1β, NOS1; calcium pathway: CAMK2, SIK3) and awake (ACHM3, EGR1, HOMER1a, OREXIN) states, and with neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity (BDNF, EGR1, CREB). These suggested the role of melatonin in mitigation of the dLAN-induced sleep disruption. Nocturnal melatonin peak levels are a crucial component of the regulatory transcriptional pathways underlying the daily wake-sleep pattern, with far-reaching implications for sleep-related issues in diurnal species including perhaps humans inhabiting an over-lit environment with pervasive light pollution.}, }
@article {pmid40264843, year = {2025}, author = {Sadik, AS and Datta, AK}, title = {Nesting on Cell Phone Towers: An Inexplicable Breeding Strategy by Asian Woollynecks Ciconia episcopus in Bangladesh.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {e71353}, pmid = {40264843}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {The Asian Woollynecks were once thought to be a rare winter migrant to the wetlands of Bangladesh, and until very recently, only a few incidents of nesting had been observed. New information shows expanding populations across their habitat, though little is known about their movement ecology, breeding ecology and preferences for artificial nest sites. In this paper, we documented some crucial nesting and breeding information on this species. We used camera traps as a means of passive monitoring and identified Large-billed crow Corvus macrorhynchos and House crow Corvus splendens as potential nest predators. Three nests were found in artificial structures, where anthropogenic activity, like disturbances during cell phone tower maintenance, or predators limit the breeding success of Asian Woollynecks.}, }
@article {pmid40257903, year = {2025}, author = {Havoc, RC and Woody, WD}, title = {The shrouded self: Racial passing as a tool of survival in early 20th century psychology.}, journal = {History of psychology}, volume = {28}, number = {2}, pages = {170-178}, doi = {10.1037/hop0000277}, pmid = {40257903}, issn = {1939-0610}, abstract = {Josiah Moses faced repeated rejections from academic positions during 1905-1911 because of his Jewish identity, which at that time was viewed as his race. In 1911, after changing his name, Josiah Morse was hired at the University of South Carolina during the time of explicitly antisemitic Jim Crow. In this article, we reveal the deceptive tactics Moses/Morse used to pass as a White person who was not Jewish with the support of his former doctoral advisor, G. Stanley Hall. We conclude with the examination of the consequences of passing and Morse's influence in psychology and other communities. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid40251059, year = {2025}, author = {Gutiérrez-Ibáñez, C and Němec, P and Paré, M and Wylie, DR and Lefebvre, L}, title = {How do big brains evolve?.}, journal = {Trends in ecology &amp; evolution}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1016/j.tree.2025.03.008}, pmid = {40251059}, issn = {1872-8383}, abstract = {In both birds and mammals, variation in brain size predominantly reflects variation in mass or volume of the pallium (neocortex) and, to a lesser extent, of the cerebellum, suggesting convergent coevolution of brains and cognition. When brain measures are based on neuron counts, however, a surprisingly different picture emerges: The number of neurons in the cerebellum surpasses those in the pallium of all mammals (including humans and other primates) and in many but not all birds studied to date. In particular, parrots and corvids, clades known for cognitive abilities that match those of primates, have brains that contain more pallial than cerebellar neurons. Birds and mammals may thus have followed different evolutionary routes of pallial-cerebellar coordination behind enhanced cognitive complexity.}, }
@article {pmid40247751, year = {2025}, author = {Ren, H and Zha, P and Liu, Y and Zhang, W and Meng, H and Di, T}, title = {Study on Moisturizing Effect of Dendrobium officinale, Sparassis crispa, and Their Compound Extracts.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {24}, number = {4}, pages = {e70189}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.70189}, pmid = {40247751}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Filaggrin Proteins ; *Dendrobium/chemistry ; Humans ; Aquaporin 3/genetics/metabolism ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry ; Hyaluronic Acid/metabolism ; Hyaluronan Synthases/genetics/metabolism ; Claudin-1/metabolism/genetics ; Epidermis/drug effects/metabolism ; *Polysaccharides/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Emollients/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Recently, natural plants have been widely developed and applied in moisturizing cosmetics. Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo (D. officinale) is known as one of the "Nine Immortals" of Chinese herbal medicine, whereas Sparassis crispa (Wulf.) Fr. (S. crispa) is known as the "king of mushrooms"; both of which have excellent biological activity.<br><br>AIMS: To explore the effects of D. officinale polysaccharide (DOP) with different molecular weights and S. crispa on the expression of moisturizing-related genes and verify the moisturizing performance of their complex.<br><br>METHODS: PCR was carried out to explore the aquaporin 3 (AQP3), hyaluronic acid synthetase1 (HAS1), HAS2, and HAS3 genes expression. Immunofluorescence (IF) analysis was used to test the protein level expression of hyaluronic acid (HA), AQP3, claudin-1, and filaggrin (FLG) influenced by moisturizing composition in a reconstructed epidermis skin model. The ability of samples to resist cell drying damage was evaluated by a cell drying damage model. Furthermore, this study validated the effect of the compositions during their application in cosmetics through tests of skin moisture content, crow's feet, and skin elasticity.<br><br>RESULTS: The results showed that DOP with molecular weights of 100&#x2009;k-500&#x2009;kDa (Dalton) had higher effects on AQP3 gene expression compared to that with molecular weights of 10&#x2009;k-100&#x2009;kDa and 1&#x2009;k-10&#x2009;kDa. Additionally, the extract of S. crispa significantly promoted the expression of HAS1, HAS2, and HAS3 genes, which are genes encoding hyaluronic acid synthesis. In addition, the mRNA and protein expression levels of HA, AQP3, claudin-1, and FLG were significantly increased as a result of the moisturizing composition consisting of DOP (100&#x2009;k-500&#x2009;kDa) and S. crispa. The application of the moisturizing composition markedly increased the skin moisture content, improved eye wrinkles, and enhanced skin elasticity.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In summary, our study proved that D. officinale and S. crispa had good moisturizing effects, and as natural plant humectants, they may have broad applications in future moisturizing cosmetics.}, }
@article {pmid40242372, year = {2025}, author = {Elman, C and Feltey, KM and Wittman, B and Stevens, C and Hartsough, MB}, title = {How the Struggle for Public Health in the Jim Crow South Reflected and Reinforced Systemic Racial Health Inequality.}, journal = {Du Bois review : social science research on race}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {93-117}, pmid = {40242372}, issn = {1742-058X}, support = {P2C HD065563/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; P30 AG034424/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {The twenty-first century COVID-19 epidemic revealed a U.S. public health system that countenanced health inequities and a U.S. public that resisted disease containment policies. This crisis, however, was only the most recent chapter in a longer struggle in the United States to institutionalize public health. We focus on two early twentieth-century public health campaigns in the American South, the unhealthiest U.S. region at the time. Black southerners-denied basic health, political, economic, and social rights under a rising Jim Crow regime-self-organized health services networks, including through the Tuskegee Woman's Club, the Negro Organization Society of Virginia, and the Moveable School (1890s-1915). Around the same time, a philanthropic project, the Rockefeller Sanitary Commission (RSC, 1909-1914), seeded state-level public health agencies in eleven southern states, thereby installing public health in a top-down manner. We use archival data sources to explore key similarities and differences in the public health concerns and coalition-building approaches of each campaign and southern resistance to their efforts. We find Black-led campaigns often blurred the color line to form coalitions that provided services to the underserved while tackling environmental health risks at the community level. In contrast, RSC affiliates in southern states, as directed by RSC administrators, provided health services as short-term public dispensaries. Services reached Black and White communities willing to participate but in a manner that did not overtly challenge Jim Crow-era practices. Southern resistance to public health expansion persisted under each approach. The legacies of these struggles remain; the political-economic and ideological forces that limited public health expansion while marginalizing Black community health efforts reverberate in public health inequities today.}, }
@article {pmid40242340, year = {2025}, author = {Aota, I and Takano, M and Izawa, EI}, title = {Effects of a short-term removal of the dominant male on vocalization in captive groups of large-billed crows (Corvus macrorynchos).}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {12}, number = {4}, pages = {241458}, pmid = {40242340}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {Dominance hierarchy is widespread among group-living animals as a conflict resolution strategy to avoid the cost and risk of fights among individuals. Dominance signals are well-known mechanisms that allow individuals to assess their opponent's fighting ability without physical contact, thereby maintaining dominance relationships. In fission-fusion societies, where group composition is fluid, dominance status can shift depending on the current group members. In such situations, vocal signals may be particularly useful as dominance signals due to their easy modification by the signaller. In this study, we investigated the relationship between rank-dependent behaviours and rank ascending by temporarily removing individuals from captive groups of large-billed crows (Corvus macrorhynchos). We removed either the first-ranked or third-ranked individuals from the group for 1 day and compared the behaviours of the remaining group members before the removal, during the removal and after the removed individuals rejoined the group. We found that the number of sequential ka calls, which is assumed to be a status signal, increased only during the removal of first-ranked individuals and decreased after they rejoined the group. These results suggest that sequential ka calls serve as dominance signals, and the subordinates flexibly adjust their vocalization depending on the presence of high-ranked individuals.}, }
@article {pmid40242334, year = {2025}, author = {Husby, M and Slagsvold, T}, title = {The Neophobia Hypothesis: nest decoration in birds may reduce predation by corvids.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {12}, number = {4}, pages = {250427}, pmid = {40242334}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {Many birds suffer heavily from nest predation, selecting several behaviours to avoid the risk. Corvids are among the most serious nest predators. However, they are also among the most neophobic of any birds. We suggest that nesting birds may take advantage of this fear by decorating the nest with anthropogenic materials that are novel to the predators (termed the Neophobia Hypothesis). They may also add large, conspicuous feathers that may indicate a site where a bird has recently been killed. In a study in the field, we found that territorial Eurasian magpies Pica pica waited for a longer period to remove eggs from artificial nests decorated with a shiny metal teaspoon, or with large, white feathers compared to adjacent artificial control nests with no decoration. On a landfill, where the birds had become more habituated to forage among anthropogenic material, common ravens Corvus corax also avoided nests decorated with a teaspoon or with feathers. The study supports the hypothesis that birds may suffer less nest predation by corvids if they decorate the nest with anthropogenic material or with large feathers.}, }
@article {pmid40238963, year = {2025}, author = {Nelson, M}, title = {Honoring Dr. Jay Siwek and 75 Years of American Family Physician.}, journal = {American family physician}, volume = {111}, number = {4}, pages = {293}, pmid = {40238963}, issn = {1532-0650}, }
@article {pmid40233941, year = {2025}, author = {Mole, J and Ruffle, JK and Nelson, A and Chan, E and Shallice, T and Nachev, P and Cipolotti, L}, title = {A right frontal network for analogical and deductive reasoning.}, journal = {Brain : a journal of neurology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1093/brain/awaf062}, pmid = {40233941}, issn = {1460-2156}, support = {089231/A/09/Z/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; //Department of Health's National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre's/ ; //National Brain Appeal/ ; MR/X00046X/1//Guarantors of Brain and the Medical Research Council/ ; }, abstract = {Two of the most well-studied types of reasoning are analogical reasoning (AR) and deductive reasoning (DR). Yet, our understanding of the relationship between reasoning abilities and their neuroanatomical basis remains surprisingly limited. We aimed to conduct fine-grained anatomical mapping of performance on tests of AR, DR and fluid intelligence (Gf), in a large sample of patients with unilateral focal frontal or posterior lesions and healthy controls. We assessed 247 prospectively recruited patients using two new tests: the Analogical Reasoning Test (ART) and the Deductive Reasoning Test (DRT); and the best-established measure of Gf: Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM). Non-parametric Bayesian stochastic block modelling was used to reveal the community structure of lesion deficit networks, disentangling functional from confounding pathological distributed effects. ART and DRT performance was significantly impaired in patients with frontal lesions [ART: F(2,238) = 18.93; P < 0.001; Frontal group worse than Posterior group and healthy controls, both P < 0.001; DRT: F(2,387) = 18.491; P < 0.001; Frontal group worse than healthy controls, P < 0.01]. Right frontal effects were evident on both tests. Thus, on the ART, right frontal patients were more impaired than left (P < 0.05). On the DRT, right frontal patients were more impaired than left frontal patients on questions with indeterminate solutions (P < 0.05) but not on questions with determinate ones. Non-parametric Bayesian stochastic block modelling implicated a right frontal network in ART and DRT performance. Strikingly, we found that this network was also implicated in performance on RAPM. Our study represents the most robust investigation of AR and DR in the focally injured brain. Our findings imply that a right frontal network is critical. The ART and DRT appear to be promising new clinical tests, capable of evaluating reasoning abilities and identifying right frontal lobe dysfunction.}, }
@article {pmid40226647, year = {2024}, author = {Ceolato-Martin, C and Chevallier-Collins, C and Clément, JP and Charles, E and Lacroix, A and Ranoux, D}, title = {OnabotulinumtoxinA in Resistant Depression: A Randomized Trial Comparing Two Facial Injection Sites (OnaDEP Study).}, journal = {Depression and anxiety}, volume = {2024}, number = {}, pages = {1177925}, pmid = {40226647}, issn = {1520-6394}, mesh = {Humans ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology ; Male ; Female ; *Depressive Disorder, Treatment-Resistant/drug therapy ; Middle Aged ; *Depressive Disorder, Major/drug therapy ; Adult ; *Neuromuscular Agents/administration &amp; dosage ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {Background: OnabotulinumtoxinA (OnaA) injection in glabella area appears to be a promising treatment for major depression. However, one major concern of placebo-controlled studies on botulinum toxin injections is to ensure adequate blinding. Patients and Methods: In this context, all subjects of this trial received the active product (OnaA). After randomization, 58 patients with resistant major depressive disorder (MDD) received OnaA either in the glabella area (N = 29) or in the crow's feet area (N = 29). Subjects were blinded to the supposedly effective area against resistant depression and the examiner was not aware of the injected area. The primary outcome measure was the proportion of responders (50% or greater decrease in MADRS [Montgomery and Asberg Depression Rating Scale] score from baseline) in glabella group versus crow's feet group at week 6 after the OnaA injection. Results: The number of responders was significantly higher in the glabella group than in the crow's feet group with 13 responders out of 29 patients (44.8%) in the glabella group and five out of 28 patients (17.9%) in the crow's feet group (p=0.029). The rate of psychomotor agitation as measured by item 9 of the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), associated with a shorter span of psychiatric disorder, was a potent positive predictive factor of positive response to treatment. Conclusion: We conclude that OnaA injected in the glabella muscles is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for MDD. We suggest that patients with a high score at item 9 of the HAM-D might be a subgroup of best responders. We assume that OnaA may act as a modulator of the activity of the primary sensorimotor cortex and then of the amygdala. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03484754.}, }
@article {pmid40223762, year = {2025}, author = {Grossmann, D and Srivastava, S and Winkler, V and Brenner, S and Gupta, KJ and Paliwal, A and Singh, K and De Allegri, M}, title = {Determinants of outpatient healthcare-seeking behaviors among the rural poor affected by chronic conditions in India: a population-based cross-sectional study in seven states.}, journal = {Global health action}, volume = {18}, number = {1}, pages = {2480413}, doi = {10.1080/16549716.2025.2480413}, pmid = {40223762}, issn = {1654-9880}, mesh = {Humans ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; India/epidemiology ; Male ; Female ; Adult ; Chronic Disease/therapy/epidemiology ; *Patient Acceptance of Health Care/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Middle Aged ; *Rural Population/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Young Adult ; *Ambulatory Care/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Adolescent ; Poverty ; Health Services Accessibility ; Aged ; Insurance, Health ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: A rising burden of chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs) increases demand for outpatient healthcare. Yet, evidence on preferences and barriers to healthcare services for India's most disadvantaged population, the target of India's largest public health insurance scheme (PM-JAY), is lacking.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: We explore determinants of outpatient healthcare-seeking behavior among PM-JAY eligible individuals with CNCDs in rural areas of seven states.<br><br>METHODS: Using cross-sectional data from a household survey (conducted between November 2019 and March 2020), we employed multilevel multinomial logistic regression to identify factors associated with seeking care from informal (home treatment, pharmacies, traditional healers), formal public, or formal private providers, compared with no care. Anderson's behavioral model informed the selection of independent variables.<br><br>RESULTS: Of 51,820 individuals, 5,061 (9.8%) reported a chronic condition. Despite their disease, 1,168 (23.1%) reported not using regular outpatient care. Another 2,421 individuals (48.0%) used formal private, 922 (18.3%) used formal public, and 535 (10.6%) used informal care. Predictors of formal private care were higher socioeconomic status (RRR&#x2009;=&#x2009;2.441, 95% CI [1.61, 3.70]) and health insurance coverage (RRR&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.478, 95% CI [1.12, 1.95]). Residents of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Gujarat were more likely to use formal public care (RRR&#x2009;=&#x2009;23.915, 95% CI [9.01, 63.44]). Suffering from Major CNCDs or experiencing limitations in daily activities increased the probability of using healthcare across all options.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Future research should explore the reasons for non-utilization of chronic care and the preference for private providers. Policies to enhance public healthcare utilization and expand insurance for outpatient care could improve access and reduce health inequities.}, }
@article {pmid40221436, year = {2025}, author = {Al-Matarneh, FM}, title = {Integrating hybrid bald eagle crow search algorithm and deep learning for enhanced malicious node detection in secure distributed systems.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {12647}, pmid = {40221436}, issn = {2045-2322}, abstract = {A distributed system comprises several independent units, each planned to track its tasks without interconnecting with the rest of them, excluding messaging services. This indicates that a solitary point of failure can reduce a method incapable without caution since no single point can achieve all essential processes. Malicious node recognition is a crucial feature of safeguarding the safety and reliability of distributed methods. Numerous models, ranging from anomaly recognition techniques to machine learning (ML) methods, are used to examine node behaviour and recognize deviances from usual patterns that may designate malicious intent. Advanced cryptographic protocols and intrusion detection devices are often combined to improve the flexibility of these methods against attacks. Moreover, real-time observing and adaptive plans are vital in quickly identifying and answering emerging attacks, contributing to the complete sturdiness of safe distributed methods. This study designs a Hybrid Bald Eagle-Crow Search Algorithm and Deep Learning for Enhanced Malicious Node Detection (HBECSA-DLMND) technique in Secure Distributed Systems. The HBECSA-DLMND technique follows the concept of metaheuristic feature selection with DL-based detection of malicious nodes in distributed systems. To accomplish this, the HBECSA-DLMND technique performs data normalization using the linear scaling normalization (LSN) approach, and the ADASYN approach is employed to handle class imbalance data. Besides, the HBECSA-DLMND method utilizes the HBECSA technique to choose a better subset of features. Meanwhile, the convolutional sparse autoencoder (CSAE) model detects malicious nodes. Finally, the dung beetle optimization (DBO) method is employed for the parameter range of the CSAE method. The experimental evaluation of the HBECSA-DLMND methodology is examined on a benchmark WSN-DS database. The performance validation of the HBECSA-DLMND methodology illustrated a superior accuracy value of 98.99% over existing approaches.}, }
@article {pmid40216860, year = {2025}, author = {Si, S and Jiang, X and Su, Q and Carin, L}, title = {Detecting implicit biases of large language models with Bayesian hypothesis testing.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {12415}, pmid = {40216860}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Bayes Theorem ; *Language ; Humans ; Bias ; Large Language Models ; }, abstract = {Despite the remarkable performance of large language models (LLMs), such as generative pre-trained Transformers (GPTs), across various tasks, they often perpetuate social biases and stereotypes embedded in their training data. In this paper, we introduce a novel framework that reformulates bias detection in LLMs as a hypothesis testing problem, where the null hypothesis [Formula: see text] represents the absence of implicit bias. Our framework leverages binary-choice questions to measure social bias in both open-source and proprietary LLMs accessible via APIs. We demonstrate the flexibility of our approach by integrating classical statistical methods, such as the exact binomial test, with Bayesian inference using Bayes factors for bias detection and quantification. Extensive experiments are conducted on prominent models, including ChatGPT (GPT-3.5-Turbo), DeepSeek-V3, and Llama-3.1-70B, utilizing publicly available datasets such as BBQ, CrowS-Pairs (in both English and French), and Winogender. While the exact Binomial test fails to distinguish between no evidence of bias and evidence of no bias, our results underscore the advantages of Bayes factors, particularly their capacity to quantify evidence for both competing hypotheses and their robustness to small sample size. Additionally, our experiments reveal that the bias behavior of LLMs is largely consistent across the English and French versions of the CrowS-Pairs dataset, with subtle differences likely arising from variations in social norms across linguistic and cultural contexts.}, }
@article {pmid40216706, year = {2025}, author = {Jyani, G and Gedam, P and Sharma, S and Dixit, J and Prinja, S}, title = {Financial Viability of Private Hospitals Operating Under India's National Health Insurance Scheme Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri-Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY).}, journal = {Applied health economics and health policy}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {40216706}, issn = {1179-1896}, support = {F.NO.T.11011/02/2017-HR/3176774//Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India/ ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Private hospitals account for 46% of all hospitals empanelled in India's national health insurance scheme and contribute to 54% of all the hospitalizations under it. However, insufficient package prices are often cited as a constraint to viable hospital operations. This study assesses the financial viability of establishing such hospitals at district level, with a focus on determining the break-even threshold by forecasting the financial trajectory of hospitals.<br><br>METHODS: By utilizing primary data from 27 district hospitals across nine states in India on cost of providing healthcare services, a blend of bottom-up and top-down micro-costing methods was used to estimate financial cost across input resource categories, including land procurement, building construction, human resources, equipment, drugs, consumables, maintenance, and overheads. Revenue from inpatient services was estimated using healthcare provider payment rates under India's largest tax-funded health insurance scheme, coupled with patient volume data stratified by distinct diseases across different specialties. Revenue projections from outpatient services were extrapolated as a fixed proportion of their inpatient counterparts. A 10-year evaluation framework was employed to forecast the hospital operations using revenue-expenditure perspective. Sensitivity analyses were undertaken to assess the extent of variations in the output owing to varying bed-occupancy levels and doctor-to-bed ratios.<br><br>RESULTS: For a model 100-bed private hospital operating at district level, the average annual expenditure and revenue are projected to be at Indian Rupee (&#x20b9;)85.27 million (US $1.03 million) and &#x20b9;104.36 million (US $1.26 million), respectively, for the initial 10 years. Human resources constitute the primary share (40%) of total expenditure, followed by spending on drugs and consumables (20%). A sequential evaluation of annual revenue and expenditure reveals that hospitals reach breakeven by their fourth operational year, subsequently transitioning into a profitable phase.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The study suggests a viable financial trajectory for private hospitals at district level, following the pricing structure of government-sponsored health insurance scheme.}, }
@article {pmid40215319, year = {2025}, author = {Schmidbauer, P and Hahn, M and Nieder, A}, title = {Crows recognize geometric regularity.}, journal = {Science advances}, volume = {11}, number = {15}, pages = {eadt3718}, doi = {10.1126/sciadv.adt3718}, pmid = {40215319}, issn = {2375-2548}, mesh = {*Crows/physiology ; Animals ; Humans ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual/physiology ; }, abstract = {The perception of geometric regularity in shapes, a form of elementary Euclidean geometry, is a fundamental mathematical intuition in humans. We demonstrate this geometric understanding in an animal, the carrion crow. Crows were trained to detect a visually distinct intruder shape among six concurrent arbitrary shapes. The crows were able to immediately apply this intruder concept to quadrilaterals, identifying the one that exhibited differing geometric properties compared to the others in the set. The crows exhibited a geometric regularity effect, showing better performance with shapes featuring right angles, parallel lines, or symmetry over more irregular shapes. This performance advantage did not require learning. Our findings suggest that geometric intuitions are not specific to humans but are deeply rooted in biological evolution.}, }
@article {pmid40212605, year = {2025}, author = {Jiang, X and Liang, W and Zhang, Y}, title = {Host personality and seasonal parasitism risk do not account for egg rejection behavior in the azure-winged magpie.}, journal = {International journal for parasitology. Parasites and wildlife}, volume = {26}, number = {}, pages = {101056}, pmid = {40212605}, issn = {2213-2244}, abstract = {Brood parasitism reduces the reproductive success of hosts and many host birds have evolved a range of anti-parasitism strategies, including egg recognition and egg rejection. Recent studies have shown that host egg rejection behavior can vary according to personality traits and parasitism risk. However, these relationships have not been clearly determined. The aim of this study was to further investigate the influence of seasonal parasitism pressure and host personality traits on egg rejection behavior in the azure-winged magpie (Cyanopica cyanus). Our results showed no significant difference in the proportion of egg rejection between hosts with low (before the arrival of cuckoos) and high (after the arrival of cuckoos) parasitism pressure. In addition, no significant difference was detected in the proportion of egg rejection between bold individuals (shorter flight initiation distance, FID) and shy individuals (longer FID). We hypothesized that the relatively weak effect of the presence or absence of cuckoos on this species could be attributed to their inherently strong egg recognition abilities. Moreover, the quantification of host behavior along a single personality axis (boldness-shyness) may be insufficient to capture behavioral differences that arise from the combined effects of various personality traits. Our study provides novel insights into the influence of seasonal parasitism risk and personality traits on host egg rejection behavior.}, }
@article {pmid40208017, year = {2025}, author = {Gwee, CY and Metzler, D and Fuchs, J and Wolf, JBW}, title = {Reconciling Gene Tree Discordance and Biogeography in European Crows.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {e17764}, doi = {10.1111/mec.17764}, pmid = {40208017}, issn = {1365-294X}, support = {WO 14262-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; INST 86/2050-1 FUGG//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; ERCStG-336536 FuncSpecGen/ERC_/European Research Council/International ; }, abstract = {Reconstructing the evolutionary history of young lineages diverging with gene flow is challenging due to factors like incomplete lineage sorting, introgression, and selection causing gene tree discordance. The European crow hybrid zone between all-black carrion crows and grey-coated hooded crows exemplifies this challenge. Most of the genome in Western and Central European carrion crow populations is near-identical to hooded crows, but differs substantially from their Iberian congeners. A notable exception is a single major-effect colour-locus under sexual selection aligning with the 'species' tree. To understand the underlying evolutionary processes, we reconstructed the biogeographic history of the species complex. During the Pleistocene carrion and hooded crows took refuge in the Iberian Peninsula and the Middle East, respectively. Allele-sharing of all-black Western European populations with likewise black Iberian crows at the colour-locus represents the last trace of carrion crow ancestry, resisting gene flow from expanding hooded crow populations that have homogenised most of the genome. A model of colour-locus introgression from an Iberian ancestor into hooded crow populations near the Pyrenées was significantly less supported. We found no positive relationship between introgression and recombination rate consistent with the absence of genome-wide, polygenic barriers in this young species complex. Overall, this study portrays a scenario where few large-effect loci, subject to divergent sexual selection, resist rampant and asymmetric gene exchange. This study underscores the importance of integrating population demography and biogeography to accurately interpret patterns of gene tree discordance following population divergence.}, }
@article {pmid40204817, year = {2025}, author = {Bharath, S and Vasuki, A}, title = {Adaptive energy loss optimization in distributed networks using reinforcement learning-enhanced crow search algorithm.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {12165}, pmid = {40204817}, issn = {2045-2322}, abstract = {Modern power distribution network incorporates distributed generation (DG) for numerous benefits. However, the incorporation creates numerous challenges in energy management and to handle the challenges it requires advanced optimization techniques for an effective operation of the network. Unlike traditional methods such as Genetic Algorithm (GA), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), and standard Crow Search Algorithm (CSA), which suffer from premature convergence and limited adaptability to real-time variations, Reinforcement Learning Enhanced Crow Search Algorithm (RL-CSA) which is proposed in this research work solves network reconfiguration optimization problem and minimize energy losses. Unlike conventional heuristic methods, which follow predefined search patterns, RL-CSA dynamically refines its search trajectory based on real-time feedback, ensuring superior convergence speed and global search efficiency. The novel RL-CSA enables real-time adaptability and intelligent optimization for energy loss reduction in distributed networks. The proposed model validation is performed on the IEEE 33 and 69 Bus test systems considering diverse performance metrics such as power loss reduction, voltage stability, execution time, utilization efficiency for DG deployment, and energy cost minimization. Comparative results show that RL-CSA achieves a 78% reduction in energy losses, limiting power loss to 5 kW (IEEE 33-Bus) and 8 kW (IEEE 69-Bus) whereas traditional models converge at higher loss levels. The execution time is optimized to 1.4 s (IEEE 33-Bus) and 1.8 s (IEEE 69-Bus), significantly faster than GA, PSO, and CSA, making RL-CSA more efficient for real-time power distribution applications. By balancing exploration-exploitation using CSA while adapting search parameters through reinforcement learning, RL-CSA ensures scalability, improved DG utilization (98%), and better voltage stability (< 0.005 p.u.), making it a robust and intelligent alternative for modern smart grid optimization.}, }
@article {pmid40199999, year = {2025}, author = {Chandralekha, M and Jayadurga, NP and Chen, TM and Sathiyanarayanan, M and Saleem, K and Orgun, MA}, title = {A synergistic approach for enhanced eye blink detection using wavelet analysis, autoencoding and Crow-Search optimized k-NN algorithm.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {11949}, pmid = {40199999}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {RSPD2024R697//King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia/ ; }, mesh = {*Blinking/physiology ; Humans ; *Electroencephalography/methods ; *Wavelet Analysis ; *Algorithms ; Machine Learning ; Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Neural Networks, Computer ; Deep Learning ; Adult ; }, abstract = {This research endeavor introduces a state-of-the-art, assimilated approach for eye blink detection from Electroencephalography signals. It combines the prominent strategies of wavelet analysis, autoencoding, and a Crow-Search-optimized k-Nearest Neighbors to enhance the performance of eye blink detection from EEG signals. This procedure is initiated by escalating the robustness of EEG data through jittering, which integrates noise into the dataset. Consequently, the wavelet transform is highly demanded during feature extraction in identifying the essential time-frequency components of the signals. These features are further distilled using an autoencoder to provide a dense, yet informative representation. Prior to introducing these features into the machine learning system, they were adjusted. Evidently, the hyperparameters of the k-Nearest Neighbors model have been fine-tuned using Crow Search Algorithm, inspired by the hunting characteristics of crows. This optimization method actively samples the search space to balance exploration and exploitation to identify the optimal configuration for the model. The k-NN model that has been optimized using the proposed method demonstrates significantly higher performance in the eye blink detection process in comparison to the deep learning models when equipped with decorous feature extraction and fine tuning. The effectiveness of the developed system has been ascertained according to the assessment indices such as accuracy, classification reports, and confusion matrix. Thus, the present work offers an optimal method of detecting the eye blink from the EEG signals assisting in the development of further EEG applications including user interfaces, fatigue level identification, and neurological disorders analysis through the enhancement of signal processing and optimization methods. It becomes evident after a detailed evaluation that conventional machine learning algorithms if implemented with correct feature extraction and fine-tuning surpass the deep learning approaches including the frameworks composed of Convolutional Neural Network and Principal Component Analysis and empirical mode decomposition by approximately 96% across all datasets. This proves the advantage of optimized traditional Machine Learning models over the Deep Learning models in realistic EEG-based eye blink detection.}, }
@article {pmid40195903, year = {2025}, author = {Yu, F and Yu, C and Guo, S and Wang, X and Li, J and Li, Z}, title = {The risk perception and response of Azure-winged magpies: On the aspect of feeding behaviour and alarm calls.}, journal = {The Journal of animal ecology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1111/1365-2656.70044}, pmid = {40195903}, issn = {1365-2656}, support = {2022YFC3202104//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; BK20211151//Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province, China/ ; }, abstract = {Prey are expected to effectively perceive predation cues, recognise predators and adopt appropriate anti-predator strategies to enhance their chances of survival. Species with high cognitive abilities tend to be better at these processes, while empirical research is still lacking. The role of cognition in avoiding predation requires further investigation, especially in species with complex social structures and communication systems. Azure-winged magpies (Cyanopica cyanus) have demonstrated great talents in cognitive tasks. We conducted model presentation and playback experiments to test their predator detection and information transmission in the wild. We found that magpies exhibited distinct responses according to the model type (pigeon, falcon and cat) and eye condition of models (covered or uncovered). Individuals postponed the visit to the feeder and took less food in response to predator and eye-uncovered models. The cat model was perceived as a higher risk, and magpies would emit alarm calls with a wider bandwidth, a higher frequency of 5%, and a higher frequency of 95%. We also found that the playback of alarm calls could induce different anti-predator behaviours from conspecifics. Our study examined how Azure-winged magpies perceive information and make decisions to avoid predators. It indicates that the alarm calls of Azure-winged magpies function in encoding and sharing information, providing an in-depth understanding of complex vocal communication and risk cognition in birds.}, }
@article {pmid40188266, year = {2025}, author = {Asha, MM and Ramya, G}, title = {Predator crow search optimization with explainable AI for cardiac vascular disease classification.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {11692}, pmid = {40188266}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Humans ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/classification/diagnosis ; *Artificial Intelligence ; Algorithms ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {The proposed framework optimizes Explainable AI parameters, combining Predator crow search optimization to refine the predictive model's performance. To prevent overfitting and enhance feature selection, an information acquisition-based technique is introduced, improving the model's robustness and reliability. An enhanced U-Net model employing context-based partitioning is proposed for precise and automatic left ventricular segmentation, facilitating quantitative assessment. The methodology was validated using two datasets: the publicly available ACDC challenge dataset and the imATFIB dataset from internal clinical research, demonstrating significant improvements. The comparative analysis confirms the superiority of the proposed framework over existing cardiovascular disease prediction methods, achieving remarkable results of 99.72% accuracy, 96.47% precision, 98.6% recall, and 94.6% F1 measure. Additionally, qualitative analysis was performed to evaluate the interpretability and clinical relevance of the model's predictions, ensuring that the outputs align with expert medical insights. This comprehensive approach not only advances the accuracy of CVD predictions but also provides a robust tool for medical professionals, potentially improving patient outcomes through early and precise diagnosis.}, }
@article {pmid40187177, year = {2025}, author = {Hu, W and Zhang, X and Shao, J and Wang, Y}, title = {Altruistic behavior in Chinese children with hearing impairment: Associations with power cognition and word comprehension.}, journal = {Acta psychologica}, volume = {255}, number = {}, pages = {104981}, doi = {10.1016/j.actpsy.2025.104981}, pmid = {40187177}, issn = {1873-6297}, abstract = {Altruistic behavior is a crucial manifestation in the socialization process of preschool children with hearing impairment, yet research on this topic among Chinese children remains limited. This study investigated the effects of power cognition and word comprehension on altruistic behavior in preschool-aged children with hearing impairment. A sample of 64 children, including both hearing-impaired and typically developing children, completed altruistic behavior tasks, power cognition tasks, word comprehension tasks, and the Raven's Combined Test. The results revealed that: (1) Children with hearing impairment exhibited significantly lower levels of altruistic behavior compared to typically developing children; (2) Both power cognition and word comprehension were positively correlated with altruistic behavior in children with hearing impairment; (3) Word comprehension mediated the relationship between power cognition and altruistic behavior in children with hearing impairment.}, }
@article {pmid40184381, year = {2025}, author = {Ong, K and Norris, DR}, title = {Experimental evidence demonstrating how freeze-thaw patterns affect spoilage of perishable cached food.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {20}, number = {4}, pages = {e0319043}, pmid = {40184381}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Freezing ; *Feeding Behavior/physiology ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; }, abstract = {For the small number of temperate and boreal species that cache perishable food, previous research suggests that increasing freeze-thaw events can have a negative impact on fitness by degrading the quality of cached food. However, there is no experimental evidence that directly links freeze-thaw events to cache quality. To examine how the timing, frequency, duration, and intensity of freeze-thaw events influenced cached food mass loss, a proxy for caloric content, we conducted a series of month-long laboratory experiments by placing simulated caches (raw chicken placed between two pieces of black spruce Picea mariana bark) in programmable freezers. Freeze-thaw treatments were modelled after weather data from Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, where a population of Canada jays (Perisoreus canadensis), a species that caches perishable food for overwinter survival and to support late-winter breeding, has declined by > 70% since the 1980s. First, we found no evidence that an increased frequency of freeze-thaw events influenced mass loss, suggesting that microstructural damage caused by crystal reformation does not significantly influence cache quality. Instead, our experimental results demonstrated that mass loss was positively influenced by longer individual thaws, which likely reflects increased microbial growth, oxidation, and progressive drip loss. We also found that caches lost more weight when subjected to early freeze-thaw events compared to late freeze-thaw events. Finally, we show that milder freezes led to less mass loss and, unexpectedly, warmer than average thaws post-freeze also led to less mass loss. Our results suggest that longer thaw periods post-freezing and milder freezes cause or lead to significantly increased spoilage of perishable cached food. All of these temperature-related conditions are closely associated with long-term changes in climate and, thus, the effects on cache degradation reported in these experiments should be applicable to species caching perishable food in the wild.}, }
@article {pmid40180641, year = {2025}, author = {Fielding, MW and Yates, LA and Buettel, JC and Stojanovic, D and Brook, BW}, title = {Carcass use by mesoscavengers varied across modified landscapes in the absence of top carnivores.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {207}, number = {4}, pages = {60}, pmid = {40180641}, issn = {1432-1939}, support = {FL160100101//Australian Research Council/ ; CE170100015//Australian Research Council/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Ecosystem ; Carnivora ; *Feeding Behavior ; Raptors ; *Crows/physiology ; Australia ; }, abstract = {The decomposition of carrion is crucial to the functioning and nutrient cycling of ecosystems, and many species use this high-quality resource. However, the availability and reliability of carrion differs across environments. Modified landscapes, such as farms and roads, often produce a high density of carcasses, with disproportionate benefits for generalist mesoscavengers that can tolerate, or are attracted to, human presence. In this study, we placed carcasses strategically across two large islands in southern Australia and used camera traps to investigate how different scavengers locate and use carrion in forested, farmland and roadside habitats. Forest ravens, an avian generalist, were the dominant scavengers across all three habitat types but were three times more likely to discover carcasses deployed in modified landscapes. Raptors were twice as likely to discover and use carcasses in farmland habitats, indicating enhanced scavenging opportunities in these areas. The discovery rate and use of carcasses by feral cats did not differ between habitat types. In this setting, differences in carrion use between diurnal and nocturnal scavengers are potentially due to the absence of top mammalian carnivores (Tasmanian devils and quolls). Diurnal scavengers, such as forest ravens and raptors, followed expected habitat preferences, albeit with greater access to carrion due to increased persistence. However, feral cats demonstrated no preference for carcasses across habitats, likely due to the reduced landscape of fear. Overall, our study underscores the important role of native mammalian carnivores in structuring scavenger communities and further validates the value of trophic rewilding to restore key ecological functions.}, }
@article {pmid40171387, year = {2025}, author = {Nishikawa, K and Idogaki, H}, title = {Effect of oral intake of heat-killed Fructobacillus fructosus OS-1010 on human skin: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study.}, journal = {Bioscience of microbiota, food and health}, volume = {44}, number = {2}, pages = {122-127}, pmid = {40171387}, issn = {2186-6953}, abstract = {Fructobacillus spp. comprise a large genus of fructophilic lactic acid bacteria whose growth characteristics differ from those of other common lactic acid bacteria. The genus has been extensively investigated microbiologically and phylogenetically. However, knowledge regarding Fructobacillus nutritional benefits remains unclear. In particular, Fructobacillus fructosus OS-1010 (OS-1010) was recently shown to act on intestinal cells to release extracellular vesicle exosomes that act on distant target cells. The released exosomes reportedly enhanced the expression of longevity-associated genes and intracellular mitochondrial activity in muscle cells. OS-1010 is expected to be a functional ingredient that improves the function of distant tissues such as muscles and skin upon oral intake. This study examined the effects of the oral intake of heat-killed OS-1010 on human skin in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study of healthy participants. Significant improvement in skin elasticity was observed after eight weeks of oral OS-1010 intake. Furthermore, although no significant difference was found between the two groups in a wrinkle-related parameter, the OS-1010 group demonstrated improvements in the percentage wrinkle area and overall average wrinkle depth of crow's feet, which were not observed in the placebo group. These results indicate that OS-1010 can contribute to the improvement in skin conditions.}, }
@article {pmid39533155, year = {2025}, author = {Lara Green, R and Joanne Carrington, S and Shaw, DJ and Kessler, K}, title = {Investigating visual perspective taking and belief reasoning in autistic adults: A pre-registered online study.}, journal = {Autism : the international journal of research and practice}, volume = {29}, number = {4}, pages = {920-933}, doi = {10.1177/13623613241290880}, pmid = {39533155}, issn = {1461-7005}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; Adult ; Young Adult ; *Theory of Mind ; *Autistic Disorder/psychology ; Middle Aged ; *Autism Spectrum Disorder/psychology ; Reaction Time ; Adolescent ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {As many autistic individuals report mentalizing difficulties into adulthood, the current pre-registered study investigated potential differences in belief reasoning and/or visual perspective taking between autistic and non-autistic adults. The Seeing-Believing task was administered to 121 gender-balanced participants online (57 with a self- reported diagnosis of an autism spectrum condition and 64 without), as well as Raven's Progressive Matrices (on which the groups did not significantly differ) and the Autism Spectrum Quotient. Non-autistic adults replicated previous findings with this task, revealing slower responses to belief-reasoning than to perspective-taking trials. Autistic adults did not show significantly slower or more error-prone performance during perspective taking and/or belief reasoning. In fact, the autistic group committed significantly fewer mistakes, including fewer altercentric intrusions. The main group difference in response times was a steeper increase with increasing angular disparity between self and other in the autistic group. We discuss our findings in terms of differences in self-other control, but emphasise that our findings cannot be explained in terms of simplistic deficit-based notions of autism and suggest that autistic adults might favour slightly different strategies when judging another's perspective or belief.Lay abstractMany autistic individuals report difficulties in social situations, where they are required to think about what goes on in others' minds. These states of the mind can include how others perceive the world around them, their beliefs, or their desires. While research has shown that autistic children could be delayed in developing their full capacity in this regard, less is known about how adults process others' experiences and beliefs. Here we used a novel task and asked adults to participate online. Participants self-reported whether they had been diagnosed with autism or not and we split them into two groups depending on their response. We also asked participants to fill in a self-report questionnaire about social preferences and habits and we also asked them to conduct a test of their nonverbal reasoning ability. Importantly, the autistic and the non-autistic groups did not differ in their nonverbal reasoning abilities, and on our task, we observed that the autistic group committed fewer mistakes than the non-autistic group. Autistic participants were particularly fast and made fewer mistakes on those responses that overlapped with their own view and belief of reality. In conclusion, our findings do not support a simple view of autism in terms of deficits in either social or more general thinking abilities. Instead, autistic adults might favour slightly different ways of thinking about other's experiences and beliefs that is more firmly linked to their own experience and knowledge.}, }
@article {pmid40168984, year = {2025}, author = {van Hasselt, SJ and Martinez-Gonzalez, D and Mekenkamp, GJ and Vyssotski, AL and Verhulst, S and Beckers, GJL and Rattenborg, NC and Meerlo, P}, title = {Sleep pressure causes birds to trade asymmetric sleep for symmetric sleep.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2025.03.008}, pmid = {40168984}, issn = {1879-0445}, abstract = {Sleep is a dangerous part of an animal's life.[1][,][2][,][3] Nonetheless, following sleep loss, mammals and birds sleep longer and deeper, as reflected by increased electroencephalogram (EEG) slow-wave activity (SWA; ≈1-5 Hz spectral power) during non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep.[4][,][5] Stimulating a brain region during wakefulness also causes that region to sleep deeper afterwards,[6][,][7][,][8][,][9] indicating that NREM sleep is a local, homeostatically regulated process.[10][,][11] Birds and some marine mammals can keep one eye open during NREM sleep,[12][,][13] a behavior associated with lighter sleep or wakefulness in the hemisphere opposite the open eye-states called asymmetric and unihemispheric NREM sleep, respectively.[13][,][14][,][15][,][16][,][17][,][18][,][19][,][20][,][21][,][22][,][23] Closure of both eyes is associated with symmetric NREM or REM sleep. Birds rely on asymmetric and unihemispheric sleep to stay safe.[17][,][24][,][25] However, as sleeping deeply with only one hemisphere at a time increases the time required for both hemispheres to fulfill their need for NREM sleep, increased sleep pressure might cause birds to engage in symmetric sleep at the expense of asymmetric sleep.[26][,][27] Using high-density EEG recordings of European jackdaws (Coloeus monedula), we investigated intra- and inter-hemispheric asymmetries during normal sleep and following sleep deprivation (SD). The proportion of asymmetric sleep was lower early in the sleep period and following SD-periods of increased sleep pressure. Our findings demonstrate a trade-off between the benefits of sleep and vigilance and indicate that a bird's utilization of asymmetric sleep is constrained by temporal dynamics in their need for sleep.}, }
@article {pmid40159384, year = {2025}, author = {Kocourek, M and Zhang, Y and Sandberg, L and Stehlík, P and Polonyiová, A and Olkowicz, S and Straková, B and Pavelková, Z and Hájek, T and Kušta, T and Lučan, RK and Kverková, K and Němec, P}, title = {Cellular scaling rules for brains of the galliform birds (Aves, Galliformes) compared to those of songbirds and parrots: Distantly related avian lineages have starkly different neuronal cerebrotypes.}, journal = {Brain, behavior and evolution}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-28}, doi = {10.1159/000545417}, pmid = {40159384}, issn = {1421-9743}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Songbirds, especially corvids, and parrots are remarkably intelligent. Their cognitive skills are on par with primates and their brains contain primate-like numbers of neurons concentrated in high densities in the telencephalon. Much less is known about cognition and neuron counts in more basal bird lineages. Here, we focus on brain cellular composition of galliform birds, which have small brains relative to body size and a proportionally small telencephalon and are often perceived as cognitively inferior to most other birds.<br><br>METHODS: We use the isotropic fractionator to assess quantitatively the numbers and distributions of neurons and nonneuronal cells in 15 species of galliform birds and compare their cellular scaling rules with those of songbirds, parrots, marsupials, insectivores, rodents and primates.<br><br>RESULTS: On average, the brains of galliforms contain about half the number of neurons found in parrot and songbird brains of the same mass. Moreover, in contrast to these birds, galliforms resemble mammals in having small telencephalic and dominant cerebellar neuronal fractions. Consequently, galliforms have much smaller absolute numbers of neurons in their forebrains than equivalently sized songbirds and parrots, which may limit their cognitive abilities. However, galliforms have similar neuronal densities and neuron counts in the brain and forebrain as equally sized non-primate mammals. Therefore, it is not surprising that cognitive abilities of galliforms are on par with non-primate mammals in many domains.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Comparisons performed in this study demonstrate that birds representing distantly related clades markedly differ in neuronal densities, neuron numbers and the allocation of brain neurons to major brain divisions. In analogy with the concept of volumetric composition of the brain, known as the cerebrotype, we conclude that distantly related birds have distinct neuronal cerebrotypes.}, }
@article {pmid40131252, year = {2025}, author = {Yang, S and Liao, W and Zhou, Y and Peng, C and Wang, J and Zhang, Z}, title = {Normative modeling of brain morphometry in self-limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes.}, journal = {Cerebral cortex (New York, N.Y. : 1991)}, volume = {35}, number = {3}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1093/cercor/bhaf064}, pmid = {40131252}, issn = {1460-2199}, support = {82302293//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2024NSFSC1782//Science and Technology Foundation of Sichuan Province/ ; KYTZ2023036//Talent Introduction Research Projects of Chengdu University of Information Technology/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Male ; Child ; *Brain/pathology/diagnostic imaging ; *Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Adolescent ; *Epilepsy, Rolandic/pathology/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology ; Child, Preschool ; Electroencephalography ; }, abstract = {Self-limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes is the most common pediatric epilepsy, characterized by an age-dependent onset that typically arises during childhood brain development and is followed by remission at puberty. However, the heterogeneity in children's brain development at the individual level complicates the challenge of personalized treatment. Our goal is to quantify individual deviations from the normative range of brain morphometric variation in children with Self-limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes and to assess their associations with clinical manifestations and cognitive functions. We have developed sex-specific normative models on regional subcortical volume, cortical thickness, and surface area data from 457 healthy children sourced from two datasets. These models were then utilized to map the brain morphometric deviations of children with Self-limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (n = 187) and sex- and age-matched healthy controls (n = 108) from another dataset. In the Self-limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes group, children exhibited a higher proportion of regions with infra-normal deviations in subcortical volumes, the number of regions with normative deviations correlated with disease duration, seizure frequency, and Raven's total score. Our findings suggest that a few extreme distributions of heterogeneous brain morphometric deviations are present in a minority of individuals, emphasizing the need to monitor brain abnormalities throughout the course of the disease.}, }
@article {pmid40129562, year = {2025}, author = {Feng, W and Liu, H}, title = {Urticaria-Like Hypersensitivity Reaction Following Botulinum Toxin Injection: A Case Report of Possible Interaction with β-Lactam Antibiotics.}, journal = {International medical case reports journal}, volume = {18}, number = {}, pages = {367-371}, doi = {10.2147/IMCRJ.S510203}, pmid = {40129562}, issn = {1179-142X}, abstract = {Botulinum toxin serotype A (BTX-A) is commonly used for treating facial dynamic wrinkles. The clinical safety of BTX-A has been proven, and it has few side effects; despite this, BTX-A has the potential to cause an allergic reaction. This case raises concerns about a possible interaction between botulinum toxin serotype A (CBTX-A) and β-lactam antibiotics, contributing to the limited literature on hypersensitivity reactions. Herein, we described the case of a 35-year-old woman who was injected with Chinese botulinum toxin serotype A (CBTX-A) to treat crow's feet. The treatment was performed after the patient had taken cefprozil for an upper respiratory tract infection. Subsequently, the patient developed urticaria-like symptoms that completely resolved within 24 hours after administration of antihistamines. This case emphasises the need for careful medication history review before botulinum toxin administration, especially in patients receiving β-lactam antibiotics, as hypersensitivity reactions may occur.}, }
@article {pmid40127088, year = {2025}, author = {Richman, SN and Tomback, DF and Grevstad, N and Kobobel, D}, title = {Dining with wolves: Are the rewards worth the risks?.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {20}, number = {3}, pages = {e0319565}, doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0319565}, pmid = {40127088}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {*Wolves/physiology ; Animals ; *Crows/physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; Reward ; Colorado ; Passeriformes/physiology ; Predatory Behavior ; }, abstract = {Where wild populations of gray wolves (Canis lupus) occur in North America, common ravens (Corvus corax) and, in western regions, black-billed magpies (Pica hudsonia) (Family Corvidae), show up quickly at wolf kills and scavenge carcasses, often feeding near wolves. Ravens and magpies also visit wolf enclosures at gray wolf sanctuaries in Colorado, USA, and attempt to take food from wolves, but there is no information regarding how often they obtain food or are injured or killed. Working at the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center, Divide, Colorado, we asked whether ravens and magpies associate with gray wolves at feeding time; what proportions of ravens and magpies obtain food per enclosure; whether individual wolves react differently to the birds; and if the birds are harmed by interacting with wolves. We also examined the effects of food type, amount, and air temperature on bird numbers. We counted raven and magpie numbers in wolf enclosures and wolf and bird behaviors during daily feeding tours across 20 visits and within eight wolf enclosures per visit. Wolf reactions within each enclosure were categorized as chasing or ignoring birds or removing food. Cumulatively, across all dates and enclosures, 33% of ravens and 43% of magpies obtained food within each enclosure. Because birds were not individually marked, these percentages could be higher. Individual wolves differed in responses to ravens and magpies but most often ignored bird presence. We found no effect of food type on bird numbers but a trend in reward probability with greater food amount for ravens. There were, however, statistically significant negative relationships between daily maximum and average temperature and raven numbers, and significant positive relationships between daily minimum and average temperature and magpie numbers. We conclude that dining with wolves represented a successful foraging strategy with low risk to ravens and magpies.}, }
@article {pmid40124943, year = {2025}, author = {Lopez-Rodriguez, B and Sharma, N and Li, Z and van der Kolk, R and van der Boom, J and Scholte, T and Chang, J and Gröblacher, S and Esmaeil Zadeh, I}, title = {Magic Silicon Dioxide for Widely Tunable Photonic Integrated Circuits.}, journal = {ACS photonics}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, pages = {1321-1328}, doi = {10.1021/acsphotonics.4c01373}, pmid = {40124943}, issn = {2330-4022}, abstract = {Integrated photonic circuits have transformed data communication, biosensing, and light detection and ranging and hold wide-ranging potential for optical computing, optical imaging, and signal processing. These applications often require tunable and reconfigurable photonic components, most commonly accomplished through the thermo-optic effect. However, the resulting tuning window is limited for standard optical materials, such as silicon dioxide and silicon nitride. Most importantly, bidirectional thermal tuning on a single platform has not been realized. For the first time, we show that by tuning and optimizing the deposition conditions in inductively coupled plasma chemical vapor deposition (ICPCVD) of silicon dioxide, this material can be used to deterministically tune the thermo-optic properties of optical devices without introducing significant losses. We demonstrate that we can deterministically integrate positive and negative wavelength shifts on a single chip, validated on amorphous silicon carbide (a-SiC), silicon nitride (SiN), and silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platforms. This enables the fabrication of a novel tunable coupled ring optical waveguide (CROW) requiring only a single heater. In addition, we observe up to a 10-fold improvement of the thermo-optic tunability and demonstrate athermal ring resonators with shifts as low as 1.5 pm/°C. The low-temperature deposition of our silicon dioxide cladding can be combined with lift-off to isolate the optical devices, resulting in a decrease in thermal crosstalk by at least 2 orders of magnitude. Our method paves the way for novel photonic architectures incorporating bidirectional thermo-optic tunability.}, }
@article {pmid40119198, year = {2025}, author = {Hahn, LA and Fongaro, E and Rose, J}, title = {Neuronal correlates of endogenous selective attention in the endbrain of crows.}, journal = {Communications biology}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {470}, pmid = {40119198}, issn = {2399-3642}, support = {Freigeist Fellowship 93299//Volkswagen Foundation (VolkswagenStiftung)/ ; Freigeist Fellowship 93299//Volkswagen Foundation (VolkswagenStiftung)/ ; Freigeist Fellowship 93299//Volkswagen Foundation (VolkswagenStiftung)/ ; Project A19 of the collaborative research center SFB1280 Projektnummer 316803389//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; Project A19 of the collaborative research center SFB1280 Projektnummer 316803389//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows/physiology ; *Attention/physiology ; *Neurons/physiology ; *Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; Male ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Cognition/physiology ; }, abstract = {The ability to direct attention and select important information is a cornerstone of adaptive behavior. Directed attention supports adaptive cognitive operations underlying flexible behavior, for example in extinction learning, and was demonstrated behaviorally in both mammals and in birds. The neural foundation of such endogenous attention, however, has been thoroughly investigated only in mammals and is still poorly understood in birds. And despite the similarities at the behavioral level, cognition of birds and mammals evolved in parallel for over 300 million years, resulting in different architectures of the endbrain, most notably the absence of cortical layering in birds. We recorded neuronal signals from the nidopallium caudolaterale, the avian equivalent to mammalian pre-frontal cortex, while crows employed endogenous attention to perform change detection in a working memory task. The neuronal activity profile clearly reflected attentional enhancement of information maintained by working memory. Our results show that top-down endogenous attention is possible without the layered configuration of the mammalian cortex.}, }
@article {pmid40111497, year = {2025}, author = {Suresh, M and Maragatharajan, M}, title = {Optimized ensemble model for accurate prediction of cardiac vascular calcification in diabetic patients.}, journal = {Acta diabetologica}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {40111497}, issn = {1432-5233}, abstract = {AIM: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are a major threat to diabetic patients, with cardiac vascular calcification (CVC) as a key predictive factor. This study seeks to improve the prediction of these calcifications using advanced machine learning (ML) algorithms. However, current ML and Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods face challenges such as limited sample sizes, insufficient data, high time complexity, long processing times, and significant implementation costs.<br><br>METHOD: To predict CVC in diabetic patients, the Simple linear iterative clustering based Ensemble Artificial Neural Network (SLIC-EANN) model is proposed in this paper. In this research article, certain biochemical, imaging, and clinical data are used that are captured from Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) dataset. The proposed model employs preprocessing techniques such as image normalization, image resizing, and image augmentation to clean and simplify the input images. Then Localization of the cardiac vascular calcification is done using the simple linear iterative clustering (SLIC) algorithm. The ensemble artificial neural network (EANN) classifies calcification severity by integrating outputs from three machine learning techniques Support Vector Machine (SVM), Gradient Boosting (GB), and Decision Tree (DT).<br><br>RESULTS: This method achieves an accuracy of 98.7% and an error rate of 1.3%, outperforming existing techniques.<br><br>CONCLUSION: A comprehensive analysis is conducted in this research article that concludes that the proposed model achieved better prediction performances of calcification in diabetic patients.}, }
@article {pmid40109883, year = {2025}, author = {Palaniyappan, L and Liddle, PF}, title = {Seminal Contributions of Timothy J. Crow.}, journal = {Psychological medicine}, volume = {55}, number = {}, pages = {e75}, pmid = {40109883}, issn = {1469-8978}, mesh = {Humans ; History, 20th Century ; *Schizophrenia/history ; Psychotic Disorders/history ; History, 21st Century ; }, abstract = {We recall the life and work of Timothy J. Crow, whose contributions provided great insights into the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and continue to shape many questions in the field. We compile his key works relating to psychotic disorders, focusing on the trajectory of his theoretical stance. Our account is interlaced with our own interpretation of the evidence that influenced Crow's arguments over the years as well as his scientific method. Crow has had a significant impact on the neuroscience of schizophrenia. Many of his observations are still valid and several questions he raised remain unanswered to date.}, }
@article {pmid40109554, year = {2025}, author = {Menge, BA}, title = {Impacts of Birds vs. Invertebrate Predators on Rocky Intertidal Community Structure.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {e71121}, pmid = {40109554}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Most studies of species interactions in rocky intertidal communities focus on invertebrate predators and herbivores interacting with sessile invertebrates and macrophytes. However, shorebirds are usually a conspicuous presence on rocky shores and eat sessile and mobile invertebrate prey, often including invertebrate predators and herbivores. Inspired by classic studies of strong bird predation effects in rocky intertidal habitats in Washington state (USA) and South Africa, I tested the effects of bird and invertebrate (sea stars, whelks) predation at multiple sites, wave exposures, and zones on the central Oregon coast from spring 1996 to fall 1997. To gain insight into the effects of birds relative to the effects of invertebrate predators, I used a crossed design, with bird exclusions (present and absent) and invertebrate predator removal (present and reduced). Compared to Washington state and South Africa, birds had little effect on the abundance of sessile or mobile prey in wave-exposed mid, wave-exposed low, and wave-protected mid zones at 2-4 sites. I suggest that differences between Oregon results and those in Washington and South Africa were driven by differences in bird abundance associated with whether the study site had resident colonies of shorebirds (primarily gulls, crows, and oystercatchers). That is, offshore islands often have resident breeding colonies such as in the Washington and South African studies, while sites in this study were all on the mainland where gulls were mostly transient visitors, while resident oystercatchers were usually limited to one or two pairs per site. Comparison with other marine and terrestrial experimental tests suggests that top-down effects of birds often vary in strength, and thus, future investigations should seek to understand the factors that underlie this variation.}, }
@article {pmid40103280, year = {2025}, author = {Pennington, L and Potts, L and Murray, J and Geytenbeek, J and Laws, K and Sargent, J and Clarke, M and Swettenham, J and Lachkovic, J and Martin, C and McColl, E}, title = {The UK C-BiLLT: Validity and reliability of an online assessment of spoken language comprehension for children with severe motor disorders.}, journal = {International journal of language &amp; communication disorders}, volume = {60}, number = {2}, pages = {e70025}, doi = {10.1111/1460-6984.70025}, pmid = {40103280}, issn = {1460-6984}, support = {GN2742//Action Medical Research/ ; //Great North Children's Hospital Foundation/ ; //Peter Sowerby Foundation/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Male ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Language Tests ; *Comprehension ; Infant ; United Kingdom ; Language Development Disorders/diagnosis ; Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted ; Psychometrics ; Motor Disorders/diagnosis ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Current UK measures of early spoken language comprehension require manipulation of toys and/or verbal responses and are not accessible to children with severe motor impairments. The Computer-Based Instrument for Low motor Language Testing (C-BiLLT) (originally validated in Dutch) is a computerized test of spoken language comprehension that children with motor disorders control using their usual response methods.<br><br>AIMS: To create a UK version of the C-BiLLT, evaluate its validity and reliability, and assess its practicability for children with motor disorders.<br><br>METHODS &amp; PROCEDURES: The C-BiLLT was translated into British English and items were adapted to ensure familiarity to UK children. A total of 424 children (233 females, 191 males) aged 1:6-7:5 (years:months) without developmental disabilities were recruited from North East England. Children completed the UK C-BiLLT and Preschool Language Scales 5 (PLS-5) for convergent validity evaluation and either the visual reception subtest of the Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL) (children aged 1:8-5:5) or Ravens Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM) (ages 5:6-7:5) to assess divergent validity. A total of 33 children completed the UK C-BiLLT within 4 weeks of initial assessment for test-retest reliability assessment (intraclass correlation coefficient-ICC). Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha and exploratory factor analysis examined structural validity. A total of 24 children (10 female, 14 male; aged 4-12 years) with non-progressive motor disorders who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), rated the UK C-BiLLT's ease of use and completed British Picture Vocabulary Scales (BPVS) and CPM as for convergent and divergent validity testing.<br><br>OUTCOMES &amp; RESULTS: Internal consistency was high for children without motor disorders (&#x3b1;&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.96). Exploratory factor analysis extracted two factors, together explaining 68% of the total variance. Test-retest reliability was excellent (ICC&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.95; 0.90-0.98 95% confidence interval-CI). UK C-BiLLT scores correlated highly with PLS-5 (r&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.91) and MSEL (r&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.81), and moderately with CPM (r&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.41); and increased across full-year age-bands (F(6, 407)&#xa0;=&#xa0;341.76, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;< 0.001, &#x3b7;[2]&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.83). A total of 19 children with motor disorders rated the UK C-BiLLT as easy/ok to use; two judged it hard; three declined to rate the ease of use. Their UK C-BiLLT scores correlated highly with BPVS (r&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.77) and moderately with CPM (r&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.57).<br><br>The UK C-BiLLT is a valid, reliable measure of early spoken language development and is potentially practicable for children with motor disorders. It may facilitate international research on the language development of children with motor disorders and evaluation of intervention at the national level.<br><br>WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on the subject Young children with motor disorders have difficulties accessing standardized assessments of language comprehension that require children to handle objects or to speak a response. What this paper adds to the existing knowledge This study demonstrates the validity and reliability of a UK translation of the C-BiLLT and suggests that the measure is feasible for children with motor disorders who use AAC and have a reliable method of response via computer access. What are the potential or clinical implications of this work? The UK C-BiLLT is a useful addition to the limited tools currently available to assess early spoken language comprehension of children with motor disorders.}, }
@article {pmid40102499, year = {2025}, author = {Alabduallah, B and Al Dayil, R and Alkharashi, A and Alneil, AA}, title = {Innovative hand pose based sign language recognition using hybrid metaheuristic optimization algorithms with deep learning model for hearing impaired persons.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {9320}, pmid = {40102499}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {KSRG-2024- 238//King Salman Center for Disability Research/ ; }, mesh = {*Sign Language ; Humans ; *Deep Learning ; *Algorithms ; *Gestures ; *Persons with Hearing Disabilities ; Hand/physiology ; }, abstract = {Sign language (SL) is an effective mode of communication, which uses visual-physical methods like hand signals, expressions, and body actions to communicate between the difficulty of hearing and the deaf community, produce opinions, and carry significant conversations. SL recognition (SLR), the procedure of automatically identifying and construing gestures of SL, has gotten considerable attention recently owing to its latent link to the lack of communication between the deaf and the hearing world. Hand gesture detection is its domain, in which computer vision (CV) and artificial intelligence (AI) help deliver non-verbal communication between computers and humans by classifying the significant movements of the human hands. The emergence and constant growth of DL approaches have delivered motivation and momentum for evolving SLR. Therefore, this manuscript presents an Innovative Sign Language Recognition using Hand Pose with Hybrid Metaheuristic Optimization Algorithms in Deep Learning (ISLRHP-HMOADL) technique for Hearing-Impaired Persons. The main objective of the ISLRHP-HMOADL technique focused on hand pose recognition to improve the efficiency and accuracy of sign interpretation for hearing-impaired persons. Initially, the ISLRHP-HMOADL model performs image pre-processing using a wiener filter (WF) to enhance image quality by reducing noise. Furthermore, the fusion of three models, ResNeXt101, VGG19, and vision transformer (ViT), is employed for feature extraction to capture diverse and intricate spatial and contextual details from the images. The bidirectional gated recurrent unit (BiGRU) classifier is implemented for hand pose recognition. To further optimize the performance of the model, the ISLRHP-HMOADL model implements the hybrid crow search-improved grey wolf optimization (CS-IGWO) model for parameter tuning, achieving a finely-tuned configuration that enhances classification accuracy and robustness. A comprehensive experimental study is accomplished under the ASL alphabet dataset to exhibit the improved performance of the ISLRHP-HMOADL model. The comparative results of the ISLRHP-HMOADL model illustrated a superior accuracy value of 99.57% over existing techniques.}, }
@article {pmid40087823, year = {2022}, author = {Burgers, TA and Vanderwerff, KJ}, title = {Vision and Radar Steering Reduces Agricultural Sprayer Operator Stress without Compromising Steering Performance.}, journal = {Journal of agricultural safety and health}, volume = {28}, number = {3}, pages = {163-179}, doi = {10.13031/jash.15060}, pmid = {40087823}, issn = {1074-7583}, abstract = {HIGHLIGHTS: Stress was measured in professional sprayer operators who, while working, drove manually and with vision or radar steering. Vision and radar steering reduced the average operator stress rate by 48% relative to manual steering. The use of automatic guidance could have a dramatic positive effect on the health of sprayer operators. Sprayer steering performance was reported for professional operators and both vision and radar guidance for the first time.<br><br>ABSTRACT: Self-propelled agricultural sprayer operators work an average of 15 h d[-1] in peak season, and steering is the task that causes the operator the most stress because of the large number of stimuli involved. Automatic guidance systems help reduce stress and fatigue for operators by allowing them to focus on tasks other than steering. Physiological signals like skin conductance (electrodermal activity, EDA) change with stress and can be used to identify stressful events. The objective of this study was to determine if using a&#xa0;commercially available vision and radar guidance system (VSN[&#xae;], Raven Industries) reduces agricultural sprayer operators' stress compared to when they are steering manually. Four male professional sprayer operators participated in this study. Each operator performed his job duties normally in GPS-guidance-planted fields, at his self-selected speed, except to drive some passes manually and others with VSN in the same field. EDA was measured with an Empatica E4 wristband, and stressful events were quantified. Machine data (e.g., speed, RTK-GPS, and VSN metrics) were collected from each sprayer via CAN logs. The steering type, stress rate (e.g., stressful events min[-1]), and steering performance (cross-track error standard deviation, XTE SD) were determined for each pass. In total, 51 passes (23 manual, 28 VSN) in six fields were analyzed. Operators using VSN had a significant reduction (48% lower, p < 0.001) in their stress rate compared to when they were steering manually. There was no significant difference in the XTE SD for the steering type. The use of an automatic guidance system such as VSN could have a dramatic positive effect on the health of sprayer operators, especially during the long workdays of the peak spraying season, and could reduce the negative effects that stress and fatigue have on steering performance, mistakes, and accidents.}, }
@article {pmid40084976, year = {2025}, author = {Heled, E and Levi, O}, title = {The effect of age and fluid intelligence on working memory in different modalities among elderly individuals: a moderated mediation analysis.}, journal = {Neuropsychology, development, and cognition. Section B, Aging, neuropsychology and cognition}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-15}, doi = {10.1080/13825585.2025.2474472}, pmid = {40084976}, issn = {1744-4128}, abstract = {Working memory (WM), the capacity to temporarily hold and manipulate information, is evaluated using the span paradigm, which consists of forward and backward recall tasks to assess storage and manipulation, respectively. In accordance with the dedifferentiation theory, which suggests that different cognitive abilities compensate for the decline of others during the aging process, the current study aimed to examine whether fluid intelligence mediates the relationship between forward and backward recall across verbal, visuospatial, and tactile modalities while including age as a moderator. A total of 106 healthy older adults aged 60-89 years underwent the Digit Span, Visuospatial Span, Tactual Span, and Raven Colored Progressive Matrices Test. We found positive correlations between forward and backward recall in all three span tasks. Additionally, the tactile and visuospatial moderated mediation models were significant, whereas the tactile model seemed more robust. However, the verbal model was found to be non-significant. These findings suggest that storage and manipulation are associated across different modalities, but fluid intelligence becomes a more significant factor as age progresses, thus compensating for WM decline. Nevertheless, this pattern varies between modalities, indicating a WM modality-specific differentiation dependent on the cognitive load. Our findings have implications for understanding cognitive aging processes and theoretical frameworks concerning WM.}, }
@article {pmid40079980, year = {2024}, author = {Burgers, TA and Kamarei, K and Vora, M and Horne, M}, title = {An Automated On-The-Go Unloading System Reduces Harvest Operator Stress Relative to Manual Operation.}, journal = {Journal of agricultural safety and health}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {89-106}, doi = {10.13031/jash.15992}, pmid = {40079980}, issn = {1074-7583}, mesh = {Humans ; Adult ; *Automation ; *Occupational Stress/prevention &amp; control ; Male ; Workload ; Farmers ; Female ; Middle Aged ; Crop Production/methods ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {HIGHLIGHTS: Stress was measured in harvest operators who performed on-the-go unloading manually and with an automated system. Automated unloading reduced the average grain cart and combine operator stress rate by 18% and 12%, respectively, compared to manual operation. Harvest operators usually worked more than 9 hours and often worked more than 12hours per workday during harvest. The use of automated unloading systems could positively affect the health of harvest operators.<br><br>ABSTRACT: On-the-go unloading improves harvest operational efficiency, but it requires skilled labor because it is challenging and stressful to balance numerous concurrent tasks. Harvest automation reduces workload, stress, and fatigue. The objective of this study was to determine if using a commercially available, automated on-the-go unloading system (Raven Cart Automation[TM], RCA, Raven Industries) would reduce operator stress compared to manual operation. Nine grain cart tractor operators and six combine operators participated in this study. Operators performed their typical harvest operation, except to alternate on-the-go unloading using RCA or operating manually. Skin conductance (electrodermal activity) was measured with an Empatica E4 wristband, and stressful events were quantified. Machine data was collected from the tractor and combine via CAN logs. Over 200 total unload events were analyzed. Grain cart and combine operators using RCA had an 18% (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.022) and 12% (p = 0.18) reduction in stress rate, respectively, compared to operating the grain cart tractor manually. RCA reduced the tractor cross-track error standard deviation by 2.5&#xa0;cm on straight passes (p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.0001). The use of an automated on-the-go unloading system reduces operator stress during harvest and could positively affect the health of operators, especially during the long harvest workdays.}, }
@article {pmid40079265, year = {2025}, author = {Burger, NFV and Nicolis, VF and Botha, AM}, title = {Evaluating long-read assemblers to assemble several aphididae genomes.}, journal = {Briefings in bioinformatics}, volume = {26}, number = {2}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1093/bib/bbaf105}, pmid = {40079265}, issn = {1477-4054}, support = {CSRU180414320893//National Research Foundation of South Africa/ ; WCT2001/02//South African Winter Cereal Industry Trust/ ; }, mesh = {*Aphids/genetics ; Animals ; *Genome, Insect ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods ; Sequence Analysis, DNA/methods ; Software ; }, abstract = {Aphids are a speciose family of the Hemiptera compromising >5500 species. They have adapted to feed off multiple plant species and occur on every continent on Earth. Although economically devastating, very few aphid genomes have been sequenced and assembled, and those that have suffer low contiguity due to repeat-rich and AT-rich genomes. With third-generation sequencing becoming more affordable and approaching quality levels to that of second-generation sequencing, the ability to produce more contiguous aphid genome assemblies is becoming a reality. With a growing list of long-read assemblers becoming available, the choice of which assembly tool to use becomes more complicated. In this study, six recently released long-read assemblers (Canu, Flye, Hifiasm, Mecat2, Raven, and Wtdbg2) were evaluated on several quality and contiguity metrics after assembling four populations (or biotypes) of the same species (Russian wheat aphid, Diuraphis noxia) and two unrelated aphid species that have publicly available long-read sequences. All assemblers did not fare equally well between the different read sets, but, overall, the Hifiasm and Canu assemblers performed the best. Merging of the best assemblies for each read set was also performed using quickmerge, where, in some cases, it resulted in superior assemblies and, in others, introduced more errors. Ab initio gene calling between assemblies of the same read set also showed surprisingly less similarity than expected. Overall, the quality control pipeline followed during the assembly resulted in chromosome-level assemblies with minimal structural or quality artefacts.}, }
@article {pmid40075987, year = {2025}, author = {Ciebiera, O and Czechowski, P and Morelli, F and Rubacha, S and Jerzak, L}, title = {Adaptation of Eurasian Magpie (Pica pica) to Urban Environments: Population Dynamics and Habitat Preferences in Zielona Góra (Poland) over 23 Years.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ani15050704}, pmid = {40075987}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {This study investigates the changes in population size, distribution, and habitat preferences of the Eurasian magpie Pica pica in Zielona Góra over 23 years, emphasising the effects of urbanisation and habitat transformation. A comprehensive survey conducted in 2022 identified 953 magpie pairs, with an average density of 8.8 pairs/km[2] across the current administrative boundaries of Zielona Góra (without forests), and 27.7 pairs/km[2] in strictly urbanised zones. The highest densities were observed in the old town (36.5 pairs/km[2]) and residential blocks (34.5 pairs/km[2]), while peripheral areas, like allotment gardens and industrial zones, showed significantly lower densities. The nests were predominantly located in coniferous trees, especially spruces, marking a shift from the previously favoured poplars. The mean nest height was 11.8 m, varying by habitat type, with the highest nests found in the old town and parks. Environmental factors, such as proximity to trash bins, water sources, and tall trees, were significant predictors of nest density and placement. These findings underscore the magpie's adaptability to urban environments, influenced by the availability of anthropogenic resources, habitat structure, and surrounding urban features.}, }
@article {pmid40075929, year = {2025}, author = {Juozaitytė-Ngugu, E and Švažas, S and Bea, A and Šneideris, D and Villanúa, D and Butkauskas, D and Prakas, P}, title = {Molecular Confirmation of Raptors from Spain as Definitive Hosts of Numerous Sarcocystis Species.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ani15050646}, pmid = {40075929}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {Most raptors are flagship and umbrella species acting as ecosystem engineers. Research on avian parasites in raptors is therefore of interest. There is a lack of studies on Sarcocystis in naturally infected raptors. In the present work, we aimed to identify Sarcocystis spp. in intestinal scrapings of the raptors from Spain. Sarcocystis spp. were identified in 82.5% of the intestinal samples studied by nested PCR and sequencing of the partial ITS1 region and 28S rRNA. A total of nine known Sarcocystis species, S. arctica, S. columbae, S. cornixi, S. glareoli, S. halieti, S. kutkienae, S. cf strixi, S. turdusi, and Sarcocystis sp. ex Corvus corax, and three genetically new organisms, Sarcocystis sp. Rod6, Sarcocystis sp. Rod7, and Sarcocystis sp. 22AvEs1, were identified in the intestines of raptors. This study is the first report of Sarcocystis spp. in the intestines of eleven raptor species from Spain. Furthermore, the new potential definitive hosts have been determined for seven Sarcocystis species. Co-infection of Sarcocystis spp. has also been observed, with more than one species found in 72.5% of birds. Nine different Sarcocystis species were identified in the intestinal samples of the Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo). In conclusion, raptors play an important role in the transmission of Sarcocystis spp.}, }
@article {pmid40065382, year = {2025}, author = {Rudaitytė-Lukošienė, E and Rehbein, S and Calero-Bernal, R and Butkauskas, D and Prakas, P}, title = {Morphological and molecular characterisation of Sarcocystis capracanis, Sarcocystis cornagliai and Sarcocystis rossii n. sp. infecting the Alpine ibex (Capra ibex).}, journal = {Parasites &amp; vectors}, volume = {18}, number = {1}, pages = {96}, pmid = {40065382}, issn = {1756-3305}, mesh = {*Sarcocystis/genetics/classification/isolation &amp; purification/ultrastructure ; *Sarcocystosis/veterinary/parasitology ; Animals ; *Phylogeny ; *RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; Austria ; *Goats/parasitology ; Goat Diseases/parasitology ; Electron Transport Complex IV/genetics ; Microscopy, Electron, Transmission/veterinary ; DNA, Protozoan/genetics/chemistry ; Diaphragm/parasitology ; Myocardium/ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The cyst-forming coccidia of the genus Sarcocystis (Sarcocystidae) are widespread protists of mammals, particularly of domestic and wild ruminants. Research on genus Sarcocystis in wild members of the subfamily Caprinae is, however, rather limited. Sarcocystis in the Alpine ibex (Capra ibex) have only been investigated in depth once and then solely by morphological techniques. In the current investigation we aimed to morphologically and genetically characterise Sarcocystis species of Alpine ibex in Austria.<br><br>METHODS: Sarcocysts detected in the diaphragm and myocardium muscles were morphologically described using light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Isolated sarcocysts were molecularly identified and characterised at the level of the 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene and cytochrome c oxidase I gene (cox1). The obtained sequences were subjected to phylogenetic analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: Three Sarcocystis species, namely S. capracanis, S. cornagliai and S. rossii n. sp., were found in Alpine ibex. For the first time, we genetically characterised S. cornagliai, which is most closely related to Sarcocystis species that are transmitted by corvid birds. Sarcocysts of S. rossii n. sp. were found to be ribbon-shaped, with pointed tips. Hair-like protrusions about 5 &#x3bc;m in length were observed on sarcocyst walls. Observation of toluidine blue-stained semi-thin sections revealed that the sarcocyst of S. rossii n. sp. was thin-walled. Using TEM, cyst walls were observed to be similar to type 7a, with thin hair-like villar protrusions on the cyst wall, which were filled with many fine electron-dense granules. The ground substance layer was particularly thin, measuring 0.2-0.4&#xa0;&#x3bc;m. The cox1 sequences of S. rossii n. sp. had the highest similarity to those of Sarcocystis arieticanis and Sarcocystis hircicanis. Sarcocystis rossii n. sp. had a close phylogenetic relationship with species that use canids as definitive hosts.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study confirms the role of the Alpine ibex as an intermediate host of three Sarcocystis species and sets a new host record for S. capracanis. It also provides the first molecular data on Sarcocystis from Alpine ibex and on S. cornagliai. In addition, a new species, S. rossii, was identified and described. Phylogenetic analyses suggested corvid birds and canids as potential definitive hosts for S. cornagliai and S. rossii n. sp., respectively.}, }
@article {pmid40052146, year = {2025}, author = {Lingstädt, F and Apostel, A and Rose, J}, title = {"Distribution of dominant wavelengths predicts jackdaw (Corvus monedula) color discrimination performance".}, journal = {Frontiers in physiology}, volume = {16}, number = {}, pages = {1543469}, pmid = {40052146}, issn = {1664-042X}, abstract = {Color vision is an important perceptual ability in most species and a crucial capacity underlying any cognitive task working with color stimuli. Birds are known for their outstanding vision and tetrachromacy. Two jackdaws were trained to indicate whether they perceive two colors as same or different. The dominant wavelengths of the experimental colors were assessed to relate the birds' performance to the physical qualities of the stimuli. The results indicate that the differences or similarities in dominant wavelengths of the colors had a strong influence on the behavioral data. Colors related to a reduced discriminatory performance were colors of particularly close wavelengths, whereas differences in saturation or brightness were less relevant. Overall, jackdaws mostly relied on hue to discriminate color pairs, and their behavior strongly reflected the physical composition of the color set. These findings show that when working with color stimuli, not only the perceptual abilities of the particular species, but also the technical aspects concerning the color presentation have to be considered carefully.}, }
@article {pmid40048071, year = {2025}, author = {Takakura, Y and Otsuki, M and Takagi, R and Houkin, K}, title = {A feasibility pilot study comparing tablets and smartphones for an app-based speed training program in older people: an open-label, randomized controlled PROBE trial.}, journal = {Cognitive processing}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {40048071}, issn = {1612-4790}, abstract = {This feasibility pilot study examined whether the device type (tablet or smartphone) influences the effectiveness of a brain training program for older adults. Forty-four community-dwelling participants were randomly assigned to the tablet or smartphone group using a stratified block randomisation protocol based on age and sex. Each participant completed 12 supervised training sessions, each lasting approximately 40 min, over 3 to 4 months. Cognitive assessments included general intelligence, attention, memory, and executive function. Two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to test the effects of the device type and time (pre- vs. post-intervention). Of the 44 participants, 36 completed the program. No main or interaction effects were observed for device type. However, significant improvements over time were found in the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test, Frontal Assessment Battery, time required to complete Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, visual cancellation, and Trail-Making Test Part A. These results suggest comparable near-transfer benefits in attention and executive functions across tablets and smartphones. However, neither device produced far-transfer gains in memory measures. These findings underscore the feasibility and potential cost-effectiveness of smartphone-based training interventions for supporting cognitive health in later life.Trial Registration: Registered in the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry on October 15, 2020 (UMIN000042123).}, }
@article {pmid40046655, year = {2025}, author = {}, title = {Editor's Note: The war on good research: Debating research ethics and methods on the basis of Jay Levy's The war on people who use drugs: The harms of Sweden's aim for a drug-free society (Routledge, 2017).}, journal = {Nordisk alkohol- &amp; narkotikatidskrift : NAT}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {14550725241298435}, pmid = {40046655}, issn = {1458-6126}, }
@article {pmid40044491, year = {2025}, author = {Hussain, A and Ali, MJ}, title = {Lacrimal History - Part 39: Doyens of Dacryology Series - Jeffrey Jay Hurwitz (1944-2022).}, journal = {Seminars in ophthalmology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-3}, doi = {10.1080/08820538.2025.2474341}, pmid = {40044491}, issn = {1744-5205}, }
@article {pmid40040463, year = {2025}, author = {Llewellyn, M}, title = {Ali Smith's queer autobiocritical aesthetics.}, journal = {Journal of lesbian studies}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-17}, doi = {10.1080/10894160.2025.2461903}, pmid = {40040463}, issn = {1540-3548}, abstract = {Ali Smith's allusive relationship to the literary and cultural canon is a prominent feature of her writing life. Smith's works offer a rich and diverse perspective on the magpie-like appreciation of cultural mo(ve)ments as accretive and cumulative sites of creative re/construction. But they also provide a sense of the writer as reader, thinker and re-visioner of personalised literary and cultural canons including not only books but paintings, films and music. In this essay, I explore Smith's work through what I term the "autobiocritical" - that is literary texts which serve to play with notions of identity, authorial positioning and critical approaches via an allusive, metafictional and theoretically informed exploration of fiction, form and self-representation. The essay focuses on Smith's Artful (2012) in which I suggest she engages in a complex process of homage and adaptation that is invested in the queering of the acts of reading, re-reading and critical perspective. Smith's subversive approach to the nature of critical analysis when divested of personality, character and readerly interaction presents a degree of cynicism and scepticism about the role of the aesthetic when anaesthetised from the quirks and individualities of character and of reading - that are central to Smith's aesthetic.}, }
@article {pmid40038068, year = {2025}, author = {Gogola, JV and Joyce, MK and Vijayraghavan, S and Barnum, G and Wildenberg, G}, title = {NSF Workshop Report: Exploring Measurements and Interpretations of Intelligent Behaviors Across Animal Model Systems.}, journal = {The Journal of comparative neurology}, volume = {533}, number = {3}, pages = {e70035}, doi = {10.1002/cne.70035}, pmid = {40038068}, issn = {1096-9861}, support = {//Neuronex: The fabric of the primate neocortex and the origin of mental representations, NSF 2015276/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Intelligence/physiology ; *Models, Animal ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Neurosciences/methods ; Brain/physiology ; }, abstract = {Defining intelligence is a challenging and fraught task, but one that neuroscientists are repeatedly confronted with. A central goal of neuroscience is to understand how phenomena like intelligent behaviors emerge from nervous systems. This requires some determination of what defines intelligence and how to measure it. The challenge is multifaceted. For instance, as we begin to describe and understand the brain in increasingly specific physical terms (e.g., anatomy, cell types, activity patterns), we amplify an ever-growing divide in how we connect measurable properties of the brain to less tangible concepts like intelligence. As our appreciation for evolutionary diversity in neuroscience grows, we are further confronted with whether there can be a unifying theory of intelligence. The National Science Foundation (NSF) NeuroNex consortium recently gathered experts from multiple animal model systems to discuss intelligence across species. We summarize here the different perspectives offered by the consortium, with the goal of promoting thought and debate of this ancient question from a modern perspective, and asking whether defining intelligence is a useful exercise in neuroscience or an ill-posed and distracting question. We present data from the vantage points of humans, macaques, ferrets, crows, octopuses, bees, and flies, highlighting some of the noteworthy capabilities of each species within the context of each species' ecological niche and how these may be challenged by climate change. We also include a remarkable example of convergent evolution between primates and crows in the circuit and molecular basis for working memory in these highly divergent animal species.}, }
@article {pmid40038036, year = {2025}, author = {Han, J and Yang, X and Gong, Q and Liu, T and Tu, H and Lu, X and Yang, F and Ji, R and Hu, L}, title = {Ocular surface side effects of botulinum toxin type A injections in the treatment of lateral canthal wrinkles (Crow's Feet).}, journal = {Contact lens &amp; anterior eye : the journal of the British Contact Lens Association}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {102389}, doi = {10.1016/j.clae.2025.102389}, pmid = {40038036}, issn = {1476-5411}, abstract = {PURPOSE: This study investigates the impact of Botulinum Toxin Type A (BoNT-A) injections for lateral canthal wrinkles on the ocular surface.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 30 patients (30 eyes) who received BoNT-A injections were followed over a three-month period. Evaluations included tear meniscus height (TMH), strip meniscometry test, fluorescein tear film break-up time (FTBUT), corneal staining score, meibomian gland orifice and meibum quality score. Observations were recorded at baseline, one week, one month, and three months post-injection.<br><br>RESULTS: Upper and total eyelid meiboscore, meibomian gland orifice obstruction, and meibum quality score peaked at three months post-injection, while FTBUT was shortest during the same period, with significant differences observed across time points (P < 0.05). Post-hoc analysis indicated a significant reduction in FTBUT between baseline and three months (P = 0.048). Corneal staining scores were highest at one week, with significant differences across time points (P < 0.001); post-hoc analysis revealed a significant difference between one week and three months (P = 0.037). No significant changes were found in TMH or strip meniscometry test score (P = 0.374, P = 0.732).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: BoNT-A injections may temporarily compromise ocular surface stability by decreasing tear film stability, disrupting meibomian gland function, and causing corneal epithelial disruption.}, }
@article {pmid40033487, year = {2025}, author = {Huang, MH and Kuan, YH and Tu, PC and Chan, YE and Su, TP}, title = {Differential involvement of trait impulsivity, fluid intelligence, and executive function in creativity among euthymic patients with bipolar disorder.}, journal = {Journal of the Chinese Medical Association : JCMA}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1097/JCMA.0000000000001221}, pmid = {40033487}, issn = {1728-7731}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: While anecdotal evidence suggests a link between bipolar disorder and heightened creativity, empirical studies are scarce, and the underlying cognitive mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the association between trait impulsivity, executive function, fluid intelligence, and creativity among euthymic patients with bipolar disorder.<br><br>METHODS: Euthymic outpatients with bipolar disorder and age- and sex-matched healthy controls were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Creativity was assessed using the Abbreviated Torrance Test for Adults and the Chinese Word Remote Associates Test, which examined divergent thinking and convergent thinking, respectively. Trait impulsivity was measured using the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale, while cognitive flexibility was evaluated using the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test. Fluid intelligence was assessed using Raven's Progressive Matrices. General linear models were used to assess the associations between these cognitive measures.<br><br>RESULTS: Fifty-seven euthymic patients with bipolar disorder and fifty-six controls were recruited. Euthymic patients with bipolar disorder exhibited comparable overall creativity to controls but underperformed in convergent thinking. General linear models confirmed a negative association between trait impulsivity and creativity, primarily observed in patients with bipolar disorder. Cognitive flexibility positively correlated with creativity among patients with bipolar disorder, independent of fluid intelligence.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our study showed that euthymic patients with bipolar disorder do not have heightened creativity. The findings underscore the importance of considering trait impulsivity and cognitive factors in understanding creativity in bipolar disorder.<br><br>LAY SUMMARY: Bipolar disorder (BD) is often linked to creativity, but scientific evidence on this connection is limited. Some individuals with BD may have creative strengths, while others struggle with cognitive challenges. This study explored how impulsivity, cognitive flexibility, and fluid intelligence affect creativity in euthymic patients with BD. Creativity was assessed by measuring divergent thinking (generating many different ideas) and convergent thinking (problem solving ability). The results showed that patients with BD do not have heightened creativity compared to healthy individuals. Importantly, higher impulsivity was linked to lower creativity, while better cognitive flexibility was associated with greater creativity in BD. The findings suggest that while BD does not enhance creativity, certain cognitive traits-such as lower impulsivity and stronger cognitive flexibility-may support creative thinking.}, }
@article {pmid40031162, year = {2025}, author = {Wei, Q and Chen, D and Yuan, B}, title = {Multi-Viewpoint and Multi-Evaluation with Felicitous Inductive Bias Boost Machine Abstract Reasoning Ability.}, journal = {IEEE transactions on image processing : a publication of the IEEE Signal Processing Society}, volume = {PP}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1109/TIP.2025.3530260}, pmid = {40031162}, issn = {1941-0042}, abstract = {Great efforts have been made to investigate AI's ability in abstract reasoning, along with the proposal of various versions of RAVEN's progressive matrices (RPM) as benchmarks. Previous studies suggest that, even after extensive training, neural networks may still struggle to make decisive decisions regarding RPM problems without sophisticated designs or additional semantic information in the form of meta-data. Through comprehensive experiments, we demonstrate that neural networks endowed with appropriate inductive biases, either intentionally designed or fortuitously matched, can efficiently solve RPM problems without the need for extra meta-data augmentation. Our work also reveals the importance of employing a multi-viewpoint with multi-evaluation approach as a key learning strategy for successful reasoning. Nevertheless, we acknowledge the unique role of metadata by demonstrating that a pre-training model supervised by meta-data leads to an RPM solver with improved performance. Codes are available in: https://github.com/QinglaiWeiCASIA/RavenSolver.}, }
@article {pmid40024953, year = {2025}, author = {Xia, Y and Ye, Y and Liu, M and Wang, Y and Shang, L and Wang, P and Sun, H}, title = {Impact of high lodine and fluoride intake on children's IQ in rural China.}, journal = {European journal of nutrition}, volume = {64}, number = {2}, pages = {104}, doi = {10.1007/s00394-025-03617-w}, pmid = {40024953}, issn = {1436-6215}, mesh = {Humans ; China ; Child ; Female ; Male ; *Fluorides/urine/analysis/administration &amp; dosage ; *Rural Population/statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Intelligence/drug effects ; *Iodine/urine/administration &amp; dosage ; Intelligence Tests ; Drinking Water/chemistry ; Cognition/drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Excessive intake of both fluorine and iodine can lead to various health effects. The potential influence of excessive fluorine and iodine intake on the intelligence of school-age children has become a notable concern.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To investigate the relationship between urinary fluoride (UF) levels, urinary iodine (UI) levels, and intelligence quotient (IQ).<br><br>METHODS: This study involved 711 children aged 8 to 12 from rural Jiangsu, China. Water iodine levels were measured using As[3+]-Ce[4+] catalytic spectrophotometry, while UI levels were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Fluoride levels in urine and drinking water were measured using the ion-selective electrode method. Children's cognitive function, evaluated through IQ scores, was assessed using the Combined Raven's Test. The results were considered significant at the P&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05 level.<br><br>RESULTS: The average IQ score was 107.6, the median UF was 281&#xa0;&#xb5;g/L, and the median UI was 1.39&#xa0;mg/L. The correlation coefficient (&#x3b2;) and confidence interval (95%CI) for UF and UI on IQ were -&#x2009;3.34 (-4.14, -2.43) and -&#x2009;3.31 (-4.19, -2.41), respectively (P&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001, P&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001). UF&#x2009;>&#x2009;1.4&#xa0;mg/L and UI&#x2009;&#x2265;&#x2009;300&#xa0;&#xb5;g/L were negatively correlated with IQ scores in all school-age children (P&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001, P&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001), with &#x3b2; and 95% CIs of -3.59 (-5.45, -1.74), -4.06 (-5.91, -2.21), respectively. The interaction term (UF&#x2009;>&#x2009;1.4&#xa0;mg/L: UI&#x2009;&#x2265;&#x2009;300&#xa0;&#xb5;g/L) was negatively correlated with IQ scores in all (P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.041) and female school-age children (P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.007), with &#x3b2; and 95%CIs of -4.43 (-8.66, -0.19) and -&#x2009;8.87 (-15.16, -2.40), respectively.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: High levels of both fluoride and iodine intake negatively affect the IQ of school-age children. Monitoring and regulating these elements in children's diets is essential to prevent cognitive impairment.}, }
@article {pmid40022279, year = {2025}, author = {Wang, Y and Chen, Z and Cai, Z and Ao, W and Li, Q and Xu, M and Zhou, S}, title = {Exploring Graph Theory Mechanisms of Fluid Intelligence in the DLPFC: Insights From Resting-State fNIRS Across Various Time Windows.}, journal = {Brain and behavior}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {e70386}, pmid = {40022279}, issn = {2162-3279}, support = {//the National Natural Science Foundation Project of China/ ; //Humanity and Social Science Research Project of Jiangxi Educational Committee/ ; //Technology Planning Project of Health Commission of Jiangxi Province/ ; //Graduate Innovation Special Fund of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ ; //Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Innovation Team Development Program/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Intelligence/physiology ; Male ; Female ; *Spectroscopy, Near-Infrared/methods/standards ; Adult ; Young Adult ; *Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex/diagnostic imaging/physiology ; Time Factors ; Functional Neuroimaging/methods/standards ; Rest/physiology ; Brain Mapping/methods ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Brain imaging technologies can measure fluid intelligence (gF) levels more directly, objectively, and dynamically, compared to traditional questionnaire scales. To clarify the temporal mechanisms of graph theory in measuring gF, this study investigated the relationship between graph theoretical indicators in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and gF levels under various time windows.<br><br>METHODS: Using 30-min resting-state fNIRS (rs-fNIRS) data and Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices from 116 healthy participants, the relationship between individual gF levels and DLPFC brain signals was analyzed using average degree (AD) and global efficiency (Eglob).<br><br>RESULTS: AD and Eglob in the resting-state DLPFC were significantly negatively correlated with the RAPM score. Considering the effectiveness and efficiency of gF measurement, a 2-min data collection might suffice, while for Eglob, more than 15-min collection was more effective.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These findings help clarify brain indicators and demonstrate the effectiveness of rs-fNIRS in intelligence measurement, providing a theoretical and practical basis for portable and objective gF assessment .}, }
@article {pmid40020660, year = {2025}, author = {Linderoth, T and Deaner, L and Chen, N and Bowman, R and Boughton, RK and Fitzpatrick, SW}, title = {Translocations spur population growth but fail to prevent genetic erosion in imperiled Florida Scrub-Jays.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2025.01.058}, pmid = {40020660}, issn = {1879-0445}, abstract = {Land and natural resource use in addition to climate change can restrict populations to degraded and fragmented habitats, catalyzing extinction through the reinforced interplay of small population size and genetic decay. Translocating individuals is a powerful strategy for overcoming direct threats from human development and reconnecting isolated populations but is not without risks.[1] Habitat Management Plan analyses under section 7 of the U.S. Endangered Species Act determined that multiple subpopulations of Federally Threatened Florida Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens, hereafter FSJ) belonging to a metapopulation on Florida's west coast were declining demographic sinks, occupying areas where agriculture and fire suppression had degraded and fragmented the habitat.[2] In order to increase the viability of the overall metapopulation, 51 FSJs from five of these small subpopulations in areas to be mined were translocated throughout 2003-2010 into a larger site of more contiguous, recently restored habitat at the core of the metapopulation, which contained a small resident population.[3] Prior to translocations and for nearly two decades afterward, this core population, referred to as the M4 core region (CR) population, was extensively monitored, yielding a nearly complete pedigree. We used this pedigree, along with temporal genomic analyses and simulations, to show that translocations coupled with habitat restoration generated rapid population growth, but high reproductive skew increased inbreeding and led to genetic erosion. This mechanistic understanding of mixed conservation outcomes highlights the importance of monitoring and the potential need for genetic rescue to offset consequences of reproductive skew following translocations, regardless of demographic recovery.}, }
@article {pmid40019547, year = {2025}, author = {Vernouillet, A and Huang, N and Kelly, DM}, title = {Pinyon Jays (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) and Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana) can discriminate between pilfering and non-pilfering conspecifics, but not between heterospecifics.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {28}, number = {1}, pages = {19}, pmid = {40019547}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {BOF.PDO.2021.0035.01//University of Ghent/ ; RGPIN-2017-04944//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; *Feeding Behavior ; Male ; Female ; Social Behavior ; Species Specificity ; Discrimination, Psychological ; }, abstract = {When foraging, individuals often need to assess potential risk from competitors. Within many food-caching (food-storing) species, individuals can modify their caching behavior depending on whether other individuals are present during the caching event. During caching, individuals may interact with not only conspecifics but also heterospecifics. However, the extent to which individual cachers can discriminate between conspecifics and heterospecifics that present a pilfering threat or not, has received little attention. During this study, we examined this issue with food-storing birds, highly social pinyon jays and less social Clark's nutcrackers. Cachers were given a choice to store their seeds in one of two visually distinct trays. Subsequently, one of the trays was given to an individual (either a conspecific or a heterospecific) who pilfered the caches, whereas the other tray was given to an individual (either a conspecific or a heterospecific) who did not pilfer the caches. When the two trays were returned to the cachers, they recached the seeds from the tray given to the pilfering observer individual more so than the tray given to the non-pilfering observer, but only when the pilferer was a conspecific. Our results suggest that the pinyon jays and nutcrackers could distinguish between conspecifics based on their pilfering behavior, but not between heterospecifics. Together, our results reconsider the ability of corvids to discriminate between individuals based on their pilfering risk and the importance of doing so while caching.}, }
@article {pmid40011843, year = {2025}, author = {Singhal, R and Namdev, R and Kumar, A and Bhagol, A and S, S}, title = {Correlation of fluoride intake with haemoglobin level and intelligence quotient in 8-12 year aged children: an observational study from India.}, journal = {BMC public health}, volume = {25}, number = {1}, pages = {788}, pmid = {40011843}, issn = {1471-2458}, support = {F.N. 5/9/1458/2022-Nut//Indian Council of Medical Research/ ; F.N. 5/9/1458/2022-Nut//Indian Council of Medical Research/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; Child ; *Fluorosis, Dental ; India ; *Hemoglobins/analysis ; *Fluorides/urine/analysis ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Intelligence/drug effects ; Drinking Water/chemistry ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Fluorosis caused by excess intake of fluoride can affects various soft tissues of the body, such as the gastrointestinal tract, blood, brain tissues and thyroid gland apart from dental fluorosis and skeletal fluorosis. Nonskeletal fluorosis is considered reversible if diagnosed early and treated promptly. Therefore, diagnostic methods that can be easily performed even by primary health care workers and depict any ongoing health problems, should be validated. Dental fluorosis, assessment of fluoride in urine and water are tests that fulfill these requirements. To date, no study has correlated haemoglobin (Hb) with dental fluorosis; moreover, studies focusing on intelligence quotient (IQ) had conflicting results and need further research. Hence, study was conducted to determine any relationship among different fluoride assessment parameters (severity of dental fluorosis, fluoride level in urine and drinking water) with IQ status and hemoglobin level of children aged 8-12 years, affected with or without dental fluorosis.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 300 children aged 8-12 years were evaluated for dental fluorosis via Dean's index, IQ level via Raven's coloured progressive matrices test, Hb level, and fluoride content in water and urine.<br><br>RESULTS: Water fluoride, age and gender were significantly associated with Hb. Intelligence was significantly related to urinary fluoride levels. Presence or absence of dental fluorosis and its severity were not significantly related to IQ or Hb.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Excess fluoride intake has adverse effects on hematological parameters and children's cognitive neurodevelopment, which were evaluated by current fluoride exposure markers, i.e., water and urinary fluoride. However, dental fluorosis cannot be used as a definitive assessment marker for these conditions, as it is not significantly correlated with these conditions.}, }
@article {pmid40007017, year = {2025}, author = {Dirks, KR and Pinto, SM and Pham, KN and Byrne-Haber, TJ and Thompson, RW and Ratnayake, OC and Rovnak, J and Perera, R}, title = {The 24th Annual Meeting of the Rocky Mountain Virology Association.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/v17020262}, pmid = {40007017}, issn = {1999-4915}, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Virology ; Colorado ; Virus Diseases/immunology ; Viruses/genetics/immunology ; Arboviruses/physiology ; Prions ; }, abstract = {Located in the Rocky Mountains within the Arapahoe and Roosevelt National Forests, Colorado State University's Mountain Campus in Pingree Park hosted the 24th Annual Rocky Mountain Virology Association's meeting in 2024. A total of 165 participants, both regional and international, participated in the 3-day event, which consisted of 48 talks and 42 posters. These presentations discussed developments in prion research, current affairs, and novel tools in virology; investigated arboviruses and their vectors, as well as molecular foundations of viral interactions; and provided increased understanding of viral immunology and vaccines. This year's Randall Jay Cohrs keynote presentation unveiled how viral infections disrupt intestinal homeostasis via Sting-dependent NK-kB signaling. This novel research demonstrated the importance of immunological pathways in the virus-induced disruption of homeostasis. Nested in the valley of the Rocky Mountains, participants could enjoy the fall colors and partake in hiking and fishing all while discussing science and networking amongst a variety of scientists. This report encapsulates selected presentations from the 24th Annual Rocky Mountain Virology Association meeting.}, }
@article {pmid40003498, year = {2025}, author = {Grant, TJ}, title = {COVID-19 as a Mirror: Reflecting the Pandemic of Racism and the Historical Roots of Health Inequities.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {22}, number = {2}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijerph22020273}, pmid = {40003498}, issn = {1660-4601}, mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology/ethnology ; Humans ; *Racism/history ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics/history ; United States/epidemiology ; Health Inequities ; History, 20th Century ; Social Determinants of Health ; Black or African American ; History, 21st Century ; Health Status Disparities ; White ; }, abstract = {Historically, the attribution of biology to race has shaped societies and manifested in innumerable disparities and irreparable harm, especially in communities of color. From the earliest days of the United States to the present day, the dehumanization and "othering" of African Americans have caused deep racial inequities that have been perpetuated and embedded in American culture. The early months of the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the deep racial inequalities in the US, especially in health outcomes for communities of color. Structural racism has played a critical role in exacerbating disparities, with Black, Hispanic, Latinx, and Indigenous populations experiencing higher rates of severe disease and mortality. The interconnectedness of racism with the social determinants of health, concomitant with higher rates of chronic illnesses like diabetes and hypertension, increases vulnerability to severe COVID-19. Health disparities are compounded by implicit biases in the medical field, a lack of diversity among healthcare providers, and historical medical mistrust among marginalized groups. Underrepresentation in the medical field, biomedical sciences, and academia hinders efforts to address health disparities effectively. This essay seeks to raise awareness of how the concepts of race and racism have resulted in racial hierarchies that perpetuate systems of oppression and impede efforts toward racial and health equity. Specifically, this essay covers time periods in American history, including slavery, the Jim Crow Era, the Civil Rights Movement, and the COVID-19 pandemic, and discusses how addressing race and racism and the achievement of racial health equity require targeted efforts to increase diversity in healthcare and biomedical fields, improve cultural competence, and foster trust between medical professionals and communities of color.}, }
@article {pmid39997167, year = {2025}, author = {Okur, M and Aksoy, V}, title = {The Effect of a Working Memory Intervention Package on the Working Memory Performance of Primary School Students with Specific Learning Disabilities.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {39997167}, issn = {2079-3200}, abstract = {This study examines the effects of a working memory (WM) intervention package on the WM performance of students with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLDs). A pre-test post-test experimental design was applied with 40 students, divided equally into experimental (20 students) and control groups (20 students). Data were collected using the Working Memory Scale (WMS), Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM), and the Working Memory Performance Tasks Form (WM-PTF). The experimental group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in WMS and WM-PTF scores relative to the control group (p < 0.006, d = 1.96 for WMS; d = 1.42 for WM-PTF). Additionally, a positive correlation was observed between the increase in WM performance and intelligence scores, suggesting that intelligence may influence WM gains. In conclusion, the WM intervention package was significant in improving the WM performance of students with SLDs, indicating that such interventions have significant potential for enhancing cognitive functions and memory. These findings highlight the critical role of WM interventions in contributing to the cognitive development of students with learning difficulties.}, }
@article {pmid39997165, year = {2025}, author = {Liu, Y and He, K and Man, K and Zhan, P}, title = {Exploring Critical Eye-Tracking Metrics for Identifying Cognitive Strategies in Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices: A Data-Driven Perspective.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/jintelligence13020014}, pmid = {39997165}, issn = {2079-3200}, abstract = {The present study utilized a recursive feature elimination approach in conjunction with a random forest algorithm to assess the efficacy of various features in predicting cognitive strategy usage in Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices. In addition to item response accuracy (RA) and response time (RT), five key eye-tracking metrics were examined: proportional time on matrix (PTM), latency to first toggle (LFT), rate of latency to first toggle (RLT), number of toggles (NOT), and rate of toggling (ROT). The results indicated that PTM, RLT, and LFT were the three most critical features, with PTM emerging as the most significant predictor of cognitive strategy usage, followed by RLT and LFT. Clustering analysis of these optimal features validated their utility in effectively distinguishing cognitive strategies. The study's findings underscore the potential of specific eye-tracking metrics as objective indicators of cognitive processing while providing a data-driven method to identify strategies used in complex reasoning tasks.}, }
@article {pmid39993628, year = {2025}, author = {Gore, S and Mhamane, S and Jadhav, S and Padvi, N and Mhatre, A and Joshi, P and Sawakare, S and Samant, V and Chaturvedi, P and Pramesh, CS and Gupta, S and Budukh, A}, title = {Implementation challenges of government-funded health schemes for cancer treatment at Tata Memorial Centre.}, journal = {Journal of cancer policy}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {100564}, doi = {10.1016/j.jcpo.2025.100564}, pmid = {39993628}, issn = {2213-5383}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The study aims to understand the Ayushman Bharat- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) and Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana (MJPJAY)health scheme awareness, challenges faced by the scheme beneficiaries, facilitators and out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) for cancer treatment at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai.<br><br>METHODS: We conducted an observational cross-sectional study approved by the Tata Memorial Centre Ethics Committee. We collected data by interviewing participants through a structured questionnaire.<br><br>RESULTS: Out of 515 participants, 489 (95%) were beneficiaries (patients/caregivers) of the schemes, 15 (2.9%) MJPJAY staff, 6 (1.1%) medical social workers (MSW), and 5 (1.0%) AB PM-JAY staff. Of the 489 beneficiaries, only 162 (33.1%) were aware of the scheme. Most patients were satisfied with the benefits of the scheme; of the 83 (17%) who were dissatisfied, 30 (36%) cited incomplete coverage at a 95% Confidence Interval (CI) [0.26-0.46] and 19 (23%) 95% CI [0.14-0.32] cited OOPE as the reason for dissatisfaction. Participants opined a need to increase package coverage of cancer treatment and essential investigations. The beneficiaries highlighted delays in the approval process and technical issues of the scheme as potential areas of improvement.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Government health schemes are effective in improving treatment completion without impoverishment and have the potential to improve treatment outcomes and cancer survival. Study results indicate the need to increase awareness about these schemes in the general population, improving the health benefit packages for cancer treatment, with inclusion investigations, supportive care, nutritional care, palliative care, immunotherapy, chemotherapy drugs, targeted therapy, bone marrow transplantation, and hormonal therapy.<br><br>POLICY SUMMARY: Government-funded health schemes are effective in reducing impoverishment related to healthcare costs and promoting Universal Health Coverage. However, periodic review of the breadth of coverage as well as feasibility of completing treatment using these packages is necessary to eliminate out-of-pocket expenditure and facilitate treatment completion.}, }
@article {pmid39990470, year = {2025}, author = {Edwards, SV and Fang, B and Khost, D and Kolyfetis, GE and Cheek, RG and Deraad, D and Chen, N and Fitzpatrick, JW and McCormack, JE and Funk, WC and Ghalambor, CK and Garrison, E and Guarracino, A and Li, H and Sackton, TB}, title = {Comparative population pangenomes reveal unexpected complexity and fitness effects of structural variants.}, journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1101/2025.02.11.637762}, pmid = {39990470}, issn = {2692-8205}, abstract = {Structural variants (SVs) are widespread in vertebrate genomes, yet their evolutionary dynamics remain poorly understood. Using 45 long-read de novo genome assemblies and pangenome tools, we analyze SVs within three closely related species of North American jays (Aphelocoma, scrub-jays) displaying a 60-fold range in effective population size. We find rapid evolution of genome architecture, including ~100 Mb variation in genome size driven by dynamic satellite landscapes with unexpectedly long (> 10 kb) repeat units and widespread variation in gene content, influencing gene expression. SVs exhibit slightly deleterious dynamics modulated by variant length and population size, with strong evidence of adaptive fixation only in large populations. Our results demonstrate how population size shapes the distribution of SVs and the importance of pangenomes to characterizing genomic diversity.}, }
@article {pmid39987304, year = {2025}, author = {Qian, Y and Su, Q and Liu, W and Ma, L and Ma, M and Ma, L}, title = {The influence of socioeconomic status on intelligence in school-age children in Xuyong County: a mediation analysis of nutrition literacy and dietary diversity.}, journal = {European journal of nutrition}, volume = {64}, number = {2}, pages = {100}, pmid = {39987304}, issn = {1436-6215}, support = {06/00180176//Southwest Medical University/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Child ; Female ; Male ; *Intelligence/physiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Adolescent ; *Social Class ; *Diet/methods/statistics &amp; numerical data ; China ; *Mediation Analysis ; *Health Literacy/statistics &amp; numerical data/methods ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Nutritional Status ; Rural Population/statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: While children's nutrition in rural areas has garnered attention, the most studies focus on underweight, obesity and anemia, neglecting the importance of intelligence in children's current academic performance and future success. This study aimed to examine how food and nutrition literacy (FNLIT) and dietary diversity score (DDS) mediate the impact of socioeconomic status (SES) on the intelligence development, offering insights for improving childhood nutrition.<br><br>METHODS: This cross-sectional study employed a stratified cluster random sampling method and included 1704 children aged between 8 and 16&#xa0;years. Questionnaires was used to collect demographic data, FNLIT, DDS and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) scores. SES was constructed using principal component analysis. Linear regression analysis was used to explore the interrelationship between the variables.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean scores for FNLIT, DDS, and SPM were 58.06&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;7.00, 6.25&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;1.64, and 37.60&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;8.91, respectively. SES is positively correlated with SPM (B&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.434, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.01); FNLIT mediates the relationship between SES and SPM (B&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.065, 95% CI: 0.035, 0.098). Among participants with DDS&#x2009;&#x2264;&#x2009;6, DDS mediates the relationship between SES and SPM (B&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.017, 95% CI: 0.0002, 0.044). For students with DDS&#x2009;&#x2264;&#x2009;6, FNLIT&#x2009;+&#x2009;DDS has a positive mediated (B&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.003, 95% CI: 0.0004, 0.007), while for primary students, it show a negative effect (B&#x2009;=&#x2009;-&#xa0;0.003, 95% CI: -&#xa0;0.008, -&#xa0;0.001).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Both FNLIT and DDS have impacts on children intelligence. Nutrition education and dietary interventions should prioritize children with low SES and inadequate DDS to enhance intellectual development.}, }
@article {pmid39987138, year = {2025}, author = {Nazari, MA and Abbasi, S and Rezaeian, M and Heysieattalab, S and Safakheil, H and Nasrabadi, AM and Barzegar, Z and Joghataei, MT and Asgharian, Z and Ghobadzadeh, F and Alizadeh, M and Amini Yeganeh, P and Khayyat Naghadehi, A and Azizi, K and Alizadeh Chakharlou, M and Nasiri, A and Davoudkhani, M and Rezaeian, M and Safakheil, M and Katebi, A and Hasanzadeh Tahraband, M and Delkhahi, S and Soltani, H and Shahrabi Farahani, V and Ghasemkhani, K and Nazari, E and Farkhondeh Tale Navi, F}, title = {Iranian 6-11 years age population-based EEG, ERP, and cognition dataset.}, journal = {Scientific data}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {319}, pmid = {39987138}, issn = {2052-4463}, support = {12286//Cognitive Sciences and Technologies Council (CSTC)/ ; 12286//Cognitive Sciences and Technologies Council (CSTC)/ ; 12286//Cognitive Sciences and Technologies Council (CSTC)/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Child ; *Electroencephalography ; *Cognition ; Iran ; Male ; Female ; Memory, Short-Term ; Evoked Potentials ; Learning Disabilities/physiopathology ; Brain/physiology ; Longitudinal Studies ; }, abstract = {This report presents an open-source dataset investigating neurodevelopmental profiles in children. The dataset consists of EEG, ERP, and cognitive assessments from 100 Iranian non-clinical participants (age range 6-11 years, Mean = 8.52 ± 1.5 SD). Notably, this is a smaller group drawn from a larger longitudinal ongoing study. The research aligns with the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) framework, aiming to enhance diagnostic precision and intervention efficacy for specific learning disabilities (SLD) using EEG/ERP measures and machine learning. Cognitive assessments included non-verbal intelligence (Raven Test), attention (IVA-2), and working memory tasks. EEG recordings captured resting-state (eyes closed/open) and brain activity during working memory tasks with numerical and non-numerical stimuli (ERPs). Additionally, demographic information such as age, gender, education, handedness, parental history of learning difficulties, and child symptom inventory-4 (CSI-4) were collected. This dataset provides a valuable resource for exploring the neurophysiological correlates of cognitive functions in typically developing children, which can advance our understanding of the neural foundations of cognitive development in children.}, }
@article {pmid39985626, year = {2025}, author = {Daw, F and Beheim, BA and Wascher, CAF}, title = {Evolutionary drivers of caching behaviour in corvids.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {28}, number = {1}, pages = {17}, pmid = {39985626}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; *Feeding Behavior ; Ecosystem ; }, abstract = {Caching has recurrently evolved across a range of animal taxa to withstand fluctuations in food availability and in the context of intraspecific competition. It is widespread in the corvid family, which exhibit considerable interspecific variation in their behavioural and morphological adaptations to caching. However, the evolutionary drivers responsible for this diversity have seldom been explored. The present study systematically reviews the literature on caching behaviour in corvids globally to determine (1) which food caching strategies species have adopted (specialist, generalist or non-cacher) and (2) whether ecological factors affect the occurrence of different strategies, namely (a) climate breadth, (b) trophic niche, (c) habitat breadth, (d) centroid latitude, (e) centroid longitude, (f) breeding system, and (g) body mass. In addition, the ancestral states of caching are reconstructed to assess the evolutionary trajectory of each strategy. Caching strategies were identified in 63 species from 16 genera (out of 128 corvid species and 22 genera). Ancestral state analysis suggested specialist caching as the ancestral state in corvids. Type of caching is associated with distance from equator and by average body mass, with generalist caching concentrated around the equatorial zone and among heavier corvids, while specialist caching occurring more commonly in smaller species found farther from the equator. Although specialist caching most likely was the ancestral state in corvids, both specialist and generalist caching evolved several times independently in the family of corvids. Our results show caching to be widespread in corvids and affected by body size and latitude but ecological factors such as topic niche and habitat breadth and breeding system, not to be strong drivers shaping caching behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid39979404, year = {2025}, author = {Clark, FE and Burdass, J and Kavanagh, A and King, A}, title = {Palaeognath birds innovate to solve a novel foraging problem.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {4512}, pmid = {39979404}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; *Feeding Behavior/physiology ; *Palaeognathae/physiology ; Problem Solving ; Cognition ; Birds/physiology/classification ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; }, abstract = {The ability to innovate implies flexible cognition, and is used as a broad metric of intelligence. Innovation in birds has been intensively studied in the larger and more taxonomically diverse Neognathae clade (particularly crows and parrots) and overlooked in the smaller and more ancestral Palaeognathae clade. The current study provides the first known evidence of technical innovation in palaeognath birds. We tested the ability of nine individuals of three species to move a hole towards a chamber to access a food reward. This problem was different to traditional innovation puzzle-boxes where an obstacle is moved away from a food chamber. Three emus and one rhea produced a wheel-turning innovation, moving the hole in the most efficient direction (closer to the nearest food item) in 90% of cases. One rhea dismantled the task twice by removing the central bolt, which we suggest is a second type of innovation, and it did not persist once they innovated the wheel turning solution. Ostriches did not innovate. We classify innovation in palaeognaths as low level/simplistic, relying on general exploration and asocial trial and error learning. Our research suggests that technical innovation may have evolved far earlier in birds than previously thought, and palaeognath birds are a compelling taxonomic group for further cognitive research.}, }
@article {pmid39978703, year = {2025}, author = {Plinio, SD and Perrucci, MG and Ferrara, G and Sergi, MR and Tommasi, M and Martino, M and Saggino, A and Ebisch, SJ}, title = {Intrinsic Brain Mapping of Cognitive Abilities: A Multiple-Dataset Study on Intelligence and its Components.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {121094}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroimage.2025.121094}, pmid = {39978703}, issn = {1095-9572}, abstract = {This study investigates how functional brain network features contribute to general intelligence and its cognitive components by analyzing three independent cohorts of healthy participants. Cognitive scores were derived from 1) the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS-IV), 2) the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices (RPM), and 3) the NIH and Penn cognitive batteries from the Human Connectome Project. Factor analysis on the NIH and Penn cognitive batteries yielded latent variables that closely resembled the content of the WAIS-IV indices and RPM. We employed graph theory and a multi-resolution network analysis by varying the modularity parameter (γ) to investigate hierarchical brain-behavior relationships across different scales of brain organization. Brain-behavior associations were quantified using multi-level robust regression analyses to accommodate variability and confounds at the subject-level, node-level, and resolution-level. Our findings reveal consistent brain-behavior relationships across the datasets. Nodal efficiency in fronto-parietal sensorimotor regions consistently played a pivotal role in fluid reasoning, whereas efficiency in visual networks was linked to executive functions and memory. A broad, low-resolution 'task-positive' network emerged as predictive of full-scale IQ scores, indicating a hierarchical brain-behavior coding. Conversely, increased cross-network connections involving default mode and subcortical-limbic networks were associated with reductions in both general and specific cognitive performance. These outcomes highlight the relevance of network efficiency and integration, as well as of the hierarchical organization in supporting specific aspects of intelligence, while recognizing the inherent complexity of these relationships. Our multi-resolution network approach offers new insights into the interplay between multilayer network properties and the structure of cognitive abilities, advancing the understanding of the neural substrates of the intelligence construct.}, }
@article {pmid39976791, year = {2025}, author = {Accinelli, C and Bruno, V and Abbas, HK and Morena, C and Khambhati, VH and Shier, WT}, title = {Microplastic uptake by birds: from observation to development of a novel seed coating to prevent bird predation of corn seeds.}, journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {39976791}, issn = {1614-7499}, abstract = {The occurrence of microplastics in soil is an emerging issue that not only impacts soil ecology but also has the potential to affect terrestrial birds foraging in agricultural fields. Foraging birds may unintentionally take up soil-borne microplastics along with soil adhering to crop residues and seeds of cultivated species. Microplastic uptake by foraging terrestrial bird species, including Pica pica (magpie), Corvus cornix (hooded crow), and Columba palumbus (common wood pigeon), studied using camera traps, showed that the risk of MP uptake by these birds microplastics from compostable plastic bags was elevated by 27 and 78% when the microplastic particles were associated with corn seed grits or corn seeds, respectively. When these film fragments were coated with a slurry containing tannic acid, saponin, and juglone, microplastic uptake was significantly reduced. Similarly, coating corn seeds with this repellent slurry reduced seed predation by birds up to 86%, and completely wrapping corn seeds with a repellent plastic film resulted in no observed seed predation by birds. The same results were obtained when the wrapping film was replaced by a seed coating containing hairy cotton fibers which may have triggered a feather fear or repulsion response in the birds. This study demonstrated that covering corn seeds with natural repellents or hairy filaments provided complete protection from bird predation.}, }
@article {pmid39970819, year = {2025}, author = {DeLisi, LE}, title = {A Tribute to Timothy J. Crow: 1938-2024.}, journal = {Schizophrenia research}, volume = {277}, number = {}, pages = {18-19}, doi = {10.1016/j.schres.2025.01.011}, pmid = {39970819}, issn = {1573-2509}, }
@article {pmid39968405, year = {2025}, author = {Alamshah, AL and Marshall, BM}, title = {Distribution-wide morphometric data of Jungle Crows (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Data in brief}, volume = {59}, number = {}, pages = {111325}, pmid = {39968405}, issn = {2352-3409}, abstract = {Understudied, widespread species may harbour underappreciated variation in morphology. Museum specimens represent a rich source of morphometric data, and for many species this information is untapped. Here we present a dataset derived from standardised photography of museum specimens of Jungle Crows (Corvus macrorhynchos), a widespread Asian Corvid. We photographed 1105 crows, for which 1069 we managed to collect measurements of hard tissue (i.e., bill characteristics and tarsus length). We combined these measurements with museum-curated data on the locality of the specimens, resulting in a geotagged dataset of Jungle Crow morphology. The measured crows originated from across their distribution, representing the most comprehensive morphometric dataset for Corvus macrorhynchos to date. The dataset is a valuable resource for exploring the driving forces behind morphological variation in Corvus macrorhynchos, as well as a foundation for intraspecific comparison of proposed subspecies and interspecific comparisons of other bird species.}, }
@article {pmid39966284, year = {2025}, author = {Double, KS}, title = {Survey measures of metacognitive monitoring are often false.}, journal = {Behavior research methods}, volume = {57}, number = {3}, pages = {97}, pmid = {39966284}, issn = {1554-3528}, support = {DE230101223//Australian Research Council/ ; }, abstract = {Metacognitive monitoring is an extremely important ability that predicts a wide range of outcomes. However, do people have insight into their own metacognitive monitoring capacity? This study measured participants' perceived metacognitive monitoring abilities using a novel psychometrically validated questionnaire (Study 1) and then examined how well survey responses aligned with online measures of metacognitive monitoring (resolution, discrimination, sensitivity, efficiency) taken from confidence ratings participants made while performing a perceptual decision-making task and Raven's Progressive Matrices (Study 2). We found a negative correlation between the questionnaire responses and many of the online measures of metacognitive monitoring - those who reported being better at metacognitive monitoring, in fact tended to be worse according to the online metacognitive ratings. This occurred because, in general, high self-perceptions of monitoring ability were, in fact, related to higher confidence and lower cognitive performance. These findings suggest that we may have inaccurate insights into our own metacognitive monitoring capacity and questionnaire-based measures of metacognitive abilities may be problematic as they may represent unrealistic self-perceptions.}, }
@article {pmid39961891, year = {2025}, author = {Larkum, AWD and Falkowski, PG and Edwards, D and Osmond, CB and Lambers, H and Sanchez-Baracaldo, P and Ritchie, RJ and Runcie, JW and Ralph, PJ and Westoby, M and Maberly, S and Griffiths, H and Smith, FA and Beardall, J}, title = {John Raven, FRS, FRSE: a truly great innovator in plant physiology, photosynthesis and much more.}, journal = {Photosynthesis research}, volume = {163}, number = {2}, pages = {18}, pmid = {39961891}, issn = {1573-5079}, mesh = {*Photosynthesis/physiology ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Plant Physiological Phenomena ; Botany/history ; }, abstract = {This is a tribute to a truly inspirational plant biologist, Prof. John A. Raven, FRS, FRSE (25th June 1941- 23rd May 2024), who died at the age of 82. He was a leader in the field of evolution and physiology of algae and land plants. His research touched on many areas including photosynthesis, ion transport, carbon utilisation, mineral use, such as silicon, iron and molybdenum, the evolution of phytoplankton, the evolution of root systems, the impact of global change, especially on the acidification of the oceans, carbon gain and water use in early land plants, and ways of detecting extraterrestrial photosynthesis. Beginning his research career in the Botany School, University of Cambridge, John studied ion uptake in a giant algal cell. This was at the time of great strides brought about by Peter Mitchell (1920-1992) in elucidating the role of energy generation in mitochondria and chloroplasts and the coupling of ion transport systems to energy generation. With Enid MacRobbie and Andrew Smith, John pioneered early work on the involvement of ion transport in the growth and metabolism of plant cells.On leaving Cambridge John took up a lectureship at the University of Dundee in 1971, where he was still attached upon his death. His primary focus over the years, with one of us (Paul Falkowski), was on phytoplankton, the photosynthetic microalgae of the oceans. Still, his publication list of 5 books and over 600 scientific papers spans a very broad range. The many highly cited papers (see Table 1) attest to an outstanding innovator, who influenced a multitude of students and coworkers and a very wide readership worldwide. At the personal level, John Raven was a wonderful human being; he had an extraordinary memory, dredging up facts and little-known scientific papers, like a scientific magician, but at the same time making humorous jokes and involving his colleagues in fun and sympathetic appreciation. Table 1 Ten best cited articles (from google scholar) Citations Date Aquatic Photosynthesis, 3rd Edition P.G. Falkowski &amp; J.A. Raven Princeton University Press, 2013 3854 2013 The evolution of modern eukaryotic phytoplankton P.G. Falkowski, M.E. Katz, A.H. Knoll, A. Quigg, J.A. Raven, et al Science 305, 354-360 1790 2004 CO2 concentrating mechanisms in algae: mechanisms, environmental modulation, and evolution M. Giordano, J. Beardall &amp; J.A. Raven Annu. Rev. Plant Biol. 56 (1), 99-131 1648 2005 Algae as nutritional food sources: revisiting our understanding M.L. Wells, P. Potin, J.S. Craigie, J.A. Raven, S.S. Merchant, et al Journal of applied phycology 29, 949-982 1527 2017 Plant Nutrient acquisition strategies change with soil age H. Lambers, J.A. Raven, G.R. Shaver &amp; S.E. Smith Trends in ecology &amp; evolution 23, 95-103 1488 2008 Ocean acidification due to increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide J. Raven, K. Caldeira, H. Elderfield, O. Hoegh-Guldberg, P. Liss, et al The Royal Society, Policy Document, June 2005 1470 2005 Phytoplankton in a changing world: cell size and elemental stoichiometry Z.V. Finkel, J. Beardall, K.J. Flynn, A. Quigg, T.A.V. Rees &amp; J.A. Raven Journal of plankton research 32, 119-137 1198 2010 Opportunities for improving phosphorus efficiency in crop plants E.J. Veneklaas, H. Lambers, J. Bragg, P.M. Finnegan, C.E. Lovelock, et al New phytologist 195, 306-320 951 2012 Adaptation of unicellular algae to irradiance: an analysis of strategies K. Richardson, J. Beardall &amp; J.A. Raven New Phytologist 93, 157-191 914 1983 Nitrogen assimilation and transport in vascular land plants in relation to Intracellular pH regulation J.A. Raven &amp; F.A. Smith New Phytologist 76, 415-431 893 1976 Temperature and algal growth J.A. Raven &amp; R.J. Geider New phytologist 110, 441-461 867 1988 The role of trace metals in photosynthetic electron transport in O2 -evolving organisms J.A. Raven, M.C.W. Evans &amp; R.E. Korb Photosynthesis Research 60, 111-150 840 1999.}, }
@article {pmid39961427, year = {2025}, author = {Yatsuda, C and Izawa, EI}, title = {Sex difference of LiCl-induced feeding suppression and, autonomic and HPA axis responses in crows.}, journal = {Physiology &amp; behavior}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {114846}, doi = {10.1016/j.physbeh.2025.114846}, pmid = {39961427}, issn = {1873-507X}, abstract = {Visceral sensation is crucial for feeding, emotion, and decision making in humans and non-human animals. Visceral discomforting stimulation activates stress-coping systems, such as the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and hypothalamus-pit-adrenal (HPA) axis, with varied responses and thresholds between sexes. Despite these systems working together during visceral discomfort, ANS and HPA have been separately investigated with few studies examining the co-occurrence of the ANS and HPA responses to visceral stimulations. The basic profiles of the ANS and HPA responses to visceral discomfort and sex differences in birds are poorly elucidated. This study investigated the effects of visceral stimulation via intraperitoneal injection of lithium chloride (LiCl) on feeding behavior, ANS and HPA activities, and sex differences in crows. We identified the LiCl dose that suppressed the intake of a preferred food and compared the LiCl-induced feeding suppression between sexes. Changes in heart rate variability (HRV), as a proxy of sympathetic and parasympathetic activities, and serum corticosterone (CORT) levels by LiCl injection were compared. Feeding suppression occurred at higher LiCl doses in males than in females. HRV analysis revealed that LiCl injection reduced HR and increased parasympathetic activity; however, it did not change sympathetic activity, with no sex differences in any variables. In contrast, LiCl injections at lower doses increased serum CORT levels more in males than in females. Our findings provide the first evidence of sex-specific response profiles to feeding suppression and ANS and HPA activities associated with LiCl-induced visceral discomfort in birds.}, }
@article {pmid39960921, year = {2025}, author = {Park, SH and Park, SO and Jung, JA}, title = {Clinical study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of home-used LED and IRED mask for crow's feet: A multi-center, randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled study.}, journal = {Medicine}, volume = {104}, number = {7}, pages = {e41596}, doi = {10.1097/MD.0000000000041596}, pmid = {39960921}, issn = {1536-5964}, mesh = {Humans ; Double-Blind Method ; Middle Aged ; *Skin Aging ; Female ; Male ; Adult ; Aged ; Low-Level Light Therapy/methods/instrumentation/adverse effects ; Treatment Outcome ; Infrared Rays/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: As the elderly population continues to grow, the demand for antiaging products is increasing concurrently. On our face, wrinkles begin to form first around the eyes, where the skin is the thinnest. Previous studies have suggested that irradiating the skin with light-emitting diode (LED)/infrared emitting diode (IRED) light at 600 to 660 nm/800 to 860 nm, stimulates the cells of the dermis and epidermal tissue and is effective in wrinkle improvement and antiaging. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of low-level light therapy masks.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: A randomized, sham device-controlled, double-blind clinical trial was conducted at 2 institutions. Sixty Asian descent individuals between the ages of 30 and 65 years who showed type II to V skin type on the Fitzpatrick scale were included. Among participants with a score of 2 to 4 on the crow's feet grading scale (CFGS) at rest (without expression), those who sought temporary improvement in both crow's feet were selected. The participants were categorized into 2 groups: the experimental group, which used a device with a combination of 630&#x2009;nm LED (max 10 mW/cm3) and 850&#x2009;nm IRED (max 10 mW/cm3), and the control group, which used the sham device. Efficacy evaluation included various evaluations, including the CFGS as rated by independent raters, CFGS scores assigned by investigators, and the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale evaluation by both investigators and the participants.<br><br>RESULTS: After using the LED mask for 16 weeks, the CFGS score of the independent raters and investigators showed significant differences at 8, 12, and 16 weeks. In addition, considering the success criteria of this study, a comparison of independent raters showed an improvement rate of &#x2265;69.2% (full analysis set [FAS]: 86.2%, per-protocol set [PPS]: 89.3%) and a difference of &#x2265;49.2% from the control group (FAS: 69.5%, PPS: 72.6%). The change in scores from the baseline showed significant differences between the test group and the control groups at 8, 12, and 16 weeks for both independent raters and investigators.<br><br>CONCLUSION: LED and IRED phototherapies at 630&#x2009;nm and 850&#x2009;nm, respectively, are effective, safe, well-tolerated, and painless treatment for skin rejuvenation.}, }
@article {pmid39957524, year = {2025}, author = {Barrón-Martínez, JB and Salvador-Cruz, J}, title = {Executive function abilities in Mexican people with Down syndrome during the COVID-19 pandemic.}, journal = {Journal of intellectual &amp; developmental disability}, volume = {50}, number = {1}, pages = {116-126}, doi = {10.3109/13668250.2024.2410846}, pmid = {39957524}, issn = {1469-9532}, mesh = {Humans ; *Down Syndrome/psychology ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; *Executive Function/physiology ; Mexico ; Male ; Female ; Adult ; Adolescent ; Young Adult ; Child ; Neuropsychological Tests ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; North American People ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The aim was to explore the executive function profile of a group of Mexican people with Down syndrome (DS) aged 12-30 years during the COVID-19 pandemic.<br><br>AIM: To analyse the relationships between mental, chronological age and eight domains of executive function.<br><br>METHOD: Participants were 42 people with DS with a chronological age (CA) of 12-30 years and a mean nonverbal mental age (MA) of 7 years. MA was evaluated with Raven's Progressive Matrices test and executive function with the Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF-2); both were administered online.<br><br>RESULTS: The Monitor, Emotional Control, Initiative, and Organisation of Materials scales showed strengths, while Working Memory, Plan/Organise, Shift, and Inhibit scales showed weaknesses. CA correlated negatively with seven of the eight executive domains. Chronologically older participants showed less impairment in skills such as inhibition, emotional control, working memory, and monitoring. Nonverbal MA correlated negatively with two domains: emotional control and monitoring.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Participants' executive profile during the COVID-19 pandemic was consistent with that reported in studies prior to the pandemic.}, }
@article {pmid39943112, year = {2025}, author = {Yakhlef, V and Magalhães-Sant'Ana, M and Pereira, AL and Azevedo, A}, title = {A Global Survey on the Perception of Conservationists Regarding Animal Consciousness.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ani15030341}, pmid = {39943112}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {Human perceptions of animal consciousness have evolved over time, influencing how they are treated. This study aimed to assess perceptions of animal consciousness in people working in conservation. An online survey of 87 participants evaluated their perceptions of animals' capabilities across 10 dimensions of consciousness, including self-consciousness, learning, and reasoning. The sum of the answers to the questions was validated as a "perception index" using a principal component analysis. Next, its variation according to taxonomic, demographic, professional factors, and the duration, type, and frequency of interaction with animals was assessed with generalized linear models and stepwise model selection. Participants' perceptions varied with taxonomic class and the level of education, with mammals obtaining higher indexes than birds (-0.14; 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.24, -0.03, p < 0.01) or reptiles (-0.41; 95% CI -0.55, -0.27, p < 0.01), and respondents holding a PhD exhibiting higher perception indexes than those with BScs (-0.19; 95% CI -0.32, -0.06, p < 0.01) or lower education (-0.18; 95% CI -0.32, -0.03, p = 0.01). The attribution of consciousness followed a phylogenetic pattern, but several exceptions (e.g., the octopus and raven) were noted on a finer scale supporting a multifactorial influence on the perception of animal consciousness that emerges upon a baseline phylogenetic pattern. Finally, the results suggest that conservationists are influenced by culture and scientific knowledge, as much as their personal experiences, when evaluating animals' perceptions, highlighting the need for further research on the convergence between perception, belief, and evidence.}, }
@article {pmid39935089, year = {2025}, author = {Fink, B and Campiche, R and Shackelford, TK and Voegeli, R}, title = {Effects of under-eye skin and crow's feet on perceived facial appearance in women of five ethnic groups.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1111/ics.13045}, pmid = {39935089}, issn = {1468-2494}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Age-related skin changes in the periorbital region caused by intrinsic (e.g. atrophy of collagen and fat) and extrinsic (e.g. sun exposure) factors, including skin wrinkling, hyperpigmentation, dark circles and lateral canthal lines ('crow's feet'), are a concern for women. We investigated the impact of under-eye skin and crow's feet on perceptions of women's faces in different ethnic groups.<br><br>METHODS: Facial images of women (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;180) from five ethnic groups were rated for age, health and attractiveness by na&#xef;ve assessors of the same ethnic group (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;120). Digital image analysis was used to quantify visible skin characteristics in two facial regions, that is, under the eyes (colour, gloss, tone evenness and wrinkles) and in the crow's feet region (wrinkles only). Skin image measurements were used to predict face ratings in the full sample and separately by ethnicity.<br><br>RESULTS: Ethnic differences were detected for measurements of skin colour, gloss, tone evenness and wrinkles - the latter under the eyes and in the crow's feet region. Correlational and regression analysis indicated a major role of wrinkles (both regions) in predicting rated age, health and attractiveness from the facial portraits across ethnic groups, with some variation in the types or the predictive magnitude of skin characteristics.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The predictive utility of under-eye wrinkles and crow's feet for rated age, health and attractiveness correspond to women's reported concern with under-eye bags, dark circles and crow's feet. Despite some ethnic differences in these features, their impact on women's facial appearance ratings is similar across ethnic groups.}, }
@article {pmid39929864, year = {2025}, author = {Khan, MA and Latif, M and Mansha, M and Hussain, T and Bin Jardan, YA and Metouekel, A and Dauelbait, M and Belkahia, H and Iqbal, F and Said, MB}, title = {Genetic characterization and phylogenetic analysis of common house crows (Corvus splendens).}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {4871}, pmid = {39929864}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; *Phylogeny ; *Crows/genetics ; Pakistan ; Electron Transport Complex IV/genetics ; Genetic Variation ; DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic/methods ; }, abstract = {The Common House Crow (Corvus splendens) exhibits remarkable ecological adaptability, enabling its rapid expansion across continents. However, despite its wide distribution, there is a need for genetic studies to clarify its evolutionary history and population structure. This research employs DNA barcoding, focusing on the mitochondrial gene cytochrome oxidase subunit I (Cox1), which is effective for species identification and phylogenetic analysis. Blood samples were collected from 70 C. splendens specimens across seven cities in Punjab, Pakistan: Lahore, Kasur, Sialkot, Narowal, Pakpattan, Gujranwala, and Bahawalpur. Genomic DNA extraction was performed, and a partial sequence of the COX1 gene was amplified using PCR techniques. Sequencing of the Cox1 marker from 10 randomly selected specimens revealed nine distinct genetic variants. Interspecific analysis positioned our C. splendens sequences alongside various Corvus species available in GenBank, while intraspecific analysis identified a total of 15 genetic variants. These variants showed nucleotide identity rates ranging from 98.7 to 99.8%, with genetic distances between 0.002 and 0.013. The analysis indicated that the C. splendens group consists of a single heterogeneous clade with variants from multiple countries, including Pakistan, Tanzania, Nepal, South Africa, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Kenya, Australia, and Singapore. This study significantly enhances our understanding of genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships within C. splendens populations, highlighting the necessity of genetic research to inform conservation strategies. Further research employing advanced molecular techniques and broader geographic sampling is essential to assess the genetic diversity and population dynamics of this adaptable species.}, }
@article {pmid39928177, year = {2025}, author = {Zhang, R and Guo, R and Xin, Y and Jiang, Q and Qiu, J}, title = {A bibliometric analysis of immune response in oral cancer.}, journal = {Discover oncology}, volume = {16}, number = {1}, pages = {146}, pmid = {39928177}, issn = {2730-6011}, support = {20232BAB216073, 20242BAB25514//Jiangxi Natural Science Foundation/ ; GZY-KJS-2023-028//Key Projects of Jiangxi Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ ; 82260194, 82403716//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), a type of oral cancer, has a high mortality rate and unfavorable outcomes. Its tumor microenvironment (TME) is intricate and adaptable, with research frequently focusing on the immune reaction. Scholars are exploring ways to enhance survival by bolstering the immune response within the TME. However, a comprehensive trend analysis is lacking. Bibliometric analysis can address this by visualizing research patterns. This study aimed to map these trends in OSCC immunology from 2003 to 2023.<br><br>METHODS: An immunology-focused search on OSCC was executed within the Web of Science Core Collection, spanning 2003 to 2023. Despite its narrow focus, the search offers a telling glimpse of current researches in this domain. Bibliometric analysis was performed using VOSviewer, Citespace, Scimago Graphica, and R software.<br><br>RESULTS: From 2003 to 2023, the field has published 805 publications, predominantly from China and the United States. The most valuable contributing author is Friedman Jay, topping co-citation counts. The journal Oral Oncology is the leading journal with the highest publication volume. An analysis of keyword bursts indicated that research into nivolumab and chemotherapy is a prevalent area of interest within the clinical community. These findings suggest that neoadjuvant immunotherapy represents a promising avenue for future therapeutic development.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study presented a summary of the current trends and research frontiers in the field of immunological aspects of OSCC. This summary can serve as a valuable reference and a source of new insights into this area of research.}, }
@article {pmid39927110, year = {2024}, author = {Wrigley-Field, E}, title = {Stolen Lives: Redress for Slavery's and Jim Crow's Ongoing Theft of Lifespan.}, journal = {The Russell Sage Foundation journal of the social sciences : RSF}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {88-112}, doi = {10.7758/rsf.2024.10.2.04}, pmid = {39927110}, issn = {2377-8253}, abstract = {Reparations proposals typically target wealth. Yet slavery's and Jim Crow's long echoes also steal time, such as by producing shorter Black lifespans even today. I argue that lost time should be considered an independent target for redress; identify challenges to doing so; and provide examples of what reparations redressing lost lifespan could look like. To identify quantitative targets for redress, I analyze area-level relationships between Black lifespans and six measures of intensity of slavery, Jim Crow, and racial terror. Results reveal inconsistent relationships across measures, suggesting difficulties in grounding a target for redress in such variation. Instead, I propose that policies aim to redress the national lifespan gap between White and Black Americans. The article concludes with a typology of potential strategies for such redress.}, }
@article {pmid39921575, year = {2025}, author = {Moll, FW and Kersten, Y and Erdle, S and Nieder, A}, title = {Exploring Anatomical Links Between the Crow's Nidopallium Caudolaterale and Its Song System.}, journal = {The Journal of comparative neurology}, volume = {533}, number = {2}, pages = {e70028}, pmid = {39921575}, issn = {1096-9861}, mesh = {Animals ; *Vocalization, Animal/physiology ; *Crows/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; *Neural Pathways/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; *Telencephalon/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology/cytology ; Male ; Neurons/physiology/cytology ; }, abstract = {Crows are corvid songbirds that exhibit remarkable cognitive control, including their ability to vocalize on command. The activity of single neurons from the crow's associative telencephalic structure nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL) is correlated with the execution of this vocal and many non-vocal behaviors. However, whether anatomical connections directly link the crow NCL to its "song system" remains unclear. To address this, we used fluorescent tracers along with histological staining methods to characterize the connectivity of the crow's NCL in relation to its song system. Consistent with previous findings in other songbirds, we found that the NCL sends dense projections into the dorsal intermediate arcopallium (AID) directly adjacent to the song system's telencephalic motor output, the robust nucleus of the arcopallium (RA). Similarly, we demonstrate dense NCL projections into the striatum engulfing the basal ganglia song nucleus "area X." Both of these descending projections mirror the projections of the nidopallial song nucleus HVC (proper name) into RA and area X, with extremely sparse NCL fibers extending into area X. Furthermore, we characterized the distribution of cells projecting from the lateral part of the magnocellular nucleus of the anterior nidopallium (MAN) to NCL. Notably, a separate medial population of MAN cells projects to HVC. These two sets of connections-MAN to NCL and MAN to HVC-run in parallel but do not overlap. Taken together, our findings support the hypothesis that the NCL is part of a "general motor system" that parallels the song system but exhibits only minimal monosynaptic interconnections with it.}, }
@article {pmid39916800, year = {2025}, author = {Chantoufi, A and Canário, AM and Baud, T and Vallé, C and Baux, A and Jiguet, F}, title = {Seed and Color Preferences of Wild Carrion Crows From Cafeteria Experiments.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {15}, number = {2}, pages = {e70944}, pmid = {39916800}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Birds can cause significant damage to agricultural fields, notably in Europe, where corvid species like carrion crows (Corvus corone) and rooks (Corvus frugilegus) target spring crops, posing challenges for conservation and wildlife management. Among targeted crops, sunflower and maize suffer the highest levels of damage from corvids' foraging. While both lethal and non-lethal strategies are employed to mitigate bird damage, their effectiveness is limited and context-dependent. Consequently, there is growing interest in identifying natural bird repellents. To improve our understanding of corvid food selection and explore potential non-lethal management strategies, we conducted (1) cafeteria trials with five common seed types (maize, sunflower, soy, pea, and wheat) and (2) two-choice color tests with maize seeds in four colors (blue, green, orange, and red) on an urban population of carrion crows accustomed to human presence. Results indicated a marked preference for sunflower and wheat, while soy and pea were largely avoided, and maize was moderately consumed. The crows also demonstrated a preference for green-colored maize over blue, orange, red, and natural maize seeds. These findings suggest that strategic planting of preferred crops like wheat alongside sunflower or maize may help mitigate damage. Further, incorporating colors into repellent seed coatings could reinforce the aversive learning process in birds, although color may play a less significant role in food selection when seeds are sown.}, }
@article {pmid39911412, year = {2025}, author = {Tomita, KM and Matsuyama, H}, title = {Cleaning Interactions Between Crows and Sika Deer: Implications for Tick-Borne Disease Management.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {15}, number = {2}, pages = {e70845}, pmid = {39911412}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Cleaning interactions between mammals and birds have been widely observed worldwide. Here, we report cleaning interactions between sika deer and crows in Japan, based on a field observations using camera traps and online research. Online research was performed on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and personal blogs. We finally collected 27 cases of cleaning associations between sika deer and crows. Crows associated with male more than female deer and mainly pecked their heads or necks, suggesting that crows remove Ixodid ticks from the deer's surface. Given that ticks on sika deer are vectors of several zoonotic pathogens such as Rickettsia and Borrelia spp., further studies should be conducted to examine the roles of crows as biocontrol agents of ticks and tick-borne diseases.}, }
@article {pmid39904394, year = {2025}, author = {Hahn, LG and Hooper, R and McIvor, GE and Thornton, A}, title = {Pair-bond strength is consistent and related to partner responsiveness in a wild corvid.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {292}, number = {2040}, pages = {20242729}, pmid = {39904394}, issn = {1471-2954}, support = {/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; //Leverhulme Trust/ ; //Natural Environment Research Council/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows/physiology ; *Pair Bond ; Female ; Male ; Social Behavior ; Cognition ; }, abstract = {The need to maintain strong social bonds is widely thought to be a key driver of cognitive evolution. Cognitive abilities to track and respond to information about social partners may be favoured by selection if they vary within populations and confer fitness benefits. Here we evaluate four key assumptions of this argument in wild jackdaws (Corvus monedula), corvids whose long-term pair bonds exemplify one of the putative social drivers of cognitive evolution in birds. Combining observational and experimental behavioural data with long-term breeding records, we found support for three assumptions: (i) pair-bond strength varies across the population, (ii) is consistent within pairs over time and (iii) is positively associated with partner responsiveness, a measure of socio-cognitive performance. However, (iv) we did not find clear evidence that stronger pair bonds lead to better fitness outcomes. Strongly bonded pairs were better able to adjust hatching synchrony to environmental conditions but they did not fledge more or higher quality offspring. Together, these findings suggest that maintaining strong pair bonds is linked to socio-cognitive performance and may facilitate effective coordination between partners. However, they also imply that these benefits are insufficient to explain how selection acts on social cognition. We argue that evaluating how animals navigate trade-offs between investing in long-term relationships versus optimizing interactions in their wider social networks will be a crucial avenue for future research.}, }
@article {pmid39904153, year = {2025}, author = {Asano, D and Takeda, M and Gima, H and Nobusako, S}, title = {Development of fluid intelligence in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy: A cross-sectional study.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {158}, number = {}, pages = {104928}, doi = {10.1016/j.ridd.2025.104928}, pmid = {39904153}, issn = {1873-3379}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cerebral palsy (CP) often presents alongside cognitive developmental delays and motor impairments. This study aimed to identify the function most closely linked to the development of fluid intelligence in individuals with CP, and to estimate the point at which the fluid intelligence of children with CP diverges from that of typically developing (TD) children.<br><br>METHODS AND PROCEDURES: Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) were used to evaluate the fluid intelligence of participants. Fifty-one participants with CP aged 4-18 years and 33 TD children aged 3-9 years were included in this study and underwent RCPM testing. The severity of CP was assessed using the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), Manual Ability Classification System (MACS) and Communication Function Classification System (CFCS).<br><br>RESULTS: Multiple regression analysis demonstrated that within the three distinct functional levels, MACS was a significant predictor of fluid intelligence in children with CP (&#x3b2; = - 0.29, p&#x202f;<&#x202f;0.05). Significant disparities in the development of fluid intelligence between the CP and TD groups emerge after 57.6 months of age.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: The findings offer valuable insights into timely and functionally targeted interventions to prevent cognitive stagnation.}, }
@article {pmid39896779, year = {2025}, author = {Feng, J and Wang, M and Zhang, Q and Xia, C}, title = {Winter Roost Preferences of Crows in Beijing City.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {15}, number = {2}, pages = {e70931}, pmid = {39896779}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {During the winter season, an extensive population of crows (predominantly the carrion crow Corvus corone) seek refuge in Beijing's urban landscapes for roosting, subsequently generating noise and droppings that adversely affect the quality of life of residents. This study elucidates the selection criteria employed by crows in Beijing's urban areas for roosting sites. Drawing upon historical records and the outcomes of our survey, we observed a remarkable consistency in the selection of roosting locations by crows over time, with the same locations being preferentially chosen across different years. We also conducted a quantitative analysis of the habitat characteristics associated with the crow roosting sites. We discovered that crows demonstrate a preference for roosting sites situated in proximity to human structures, particularly towering buildings, which are often adjacent to broad roads. By understanding the factors that influence the selection of roosting sites by crows, policy-makers and urban planners can devise targeted interventions aimed at mitigating conflicts between humans and crows.}, }
@article {pmid39896409, year = {2024}, author = {Banumathy, D and Vetriselvi, T and Venkatachalam, K and Cho, J}, title = {Quantum-inspired seagull optimised deep belief network approach for cardiovascular disease prediction.}, journal = {PeerJ. Computer science}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {e2498}, pmid = {39896409}, issn = {2376-5992}, abstract = {The early detection and accurate diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases is vital to reduce global morbidity and death rates. In this work, the quantum-inspired seagull optimization algorithm (QISOA) combined with a deep belief network (DBN) is proposed to improve the identification of cardiovascular disorders. As part of preprocessing, cleaning, transformation, and standardization are performed to eliminate noise, inconsistencies, and scaling issues in the data. QISOA is used to optimize the weights and biases of the DBN model, enhancing its prediction efficiency. The algorithm incorporates quantum mechanics concepts to develop its exploration potential further, leading to faster convergence and increased global search efficiency. Optimized DBN provides efficient acquisition of hierarchical representations of the data, which results in improved feature learning and classification accuracy. The publicly accessible Cleveland Heart Disease dataset is used to assess the performance of the suggested model. Extensive experiments are conducted to demonstrate the superior performance of the QISOA-optimized DBN model compared to traditional machine learning and other metaheuristic-based models. Initially, machine learning models such as support vector machines, decision trees, Random Forests, multi-layer perceptrons, and fully connected networks were considered for comparison with the cardiovascular predictive performance of the DBN model. Further, meta-heuristic optimization algorithms such as particle swarm optimization, genetic algorithm, grey wolf optimization, cuckoo search optimization and crow search algorithm are combined with the machine learning models and the classification efficiency is evaluated. Additionally, few state-of-the-art techniques proposed in the existing literature are investigated and compared against the proposed model. It was evident from the comprehensive performance assessment of the proposed model that it yields a higher accuracy of 98.6% with precision, recall, and F1-scores of 97.6%, 96.8%, and 97.1%, respectively, compared to other traditional and existing models for cardiovascular disease prediction.}, }
@article {pmid39886338, year = {2024}, author = {Bruno, F and Spadafora, P and Veltri, I and Cuconati, ML and Condino, F and Cerantonio, A and De Benedittis, S and Greco, BM and Di Palma, G and Gallo, O and Citrigno, L and Qualtieri, A and Cundari, M and Cavalcanti, F}, title = {Sex and APOE genotype modulate neuropsychological profile and depression in temporal lobe epilepsy.}, journal = {Frontiers in neuroscience}, volume = {18}, number = {}, pages = {1514902}, pmid = {39886338}, issn = {1662-4548}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Temporal lobe epilepsy is the most common form of focal epilepsy, often associated with cognitive impairments, particularly in memory functions, and depression. Sex and APOE ε4 genotype play a crucial role in modulating cognitive outcomes and depression in various neurological conditions like Alzheimer's disease. However, the combined effects of APOE genotype and sex on cognitive performance and depression in temporal lobe epilepsy have not been previously investigated.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: This study aims to (i) identify impaired cognitive performance and clinically relevant depression; (ii) explore the interaction between sex and APOE &#x3b5;4 genotype on cognitive performance and depression in individuals with temporal lobe epilepsy.<br><br>METHODS: We used a comprehensive battery of neuropsychological tests to assess domains such as learning and memory, attention, executive functions, language, and visuo-spatial constructional skills and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. We also performed APOE genotyping to assess its role in the study. The final sample was composed by fifty-four patients (53.7% female). Cognitive performance and depression were analyzed using normative cut-off scores. To examine the main effects and interactions of sex and APOE &#x3b5;4 carrier status on neuropsychological test scores and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, we also conducted a two-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA).<br><br>RESULTS: Female APOE &#x3b5;4 carriers compared to normative cut-offs, exhibited poor performance on multiple test scores, including the MMSE, The Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (immediate and delayed recall), The Corsi Block-Tapping Task, The Verbal Fluency Test, The Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices and The Pentagon-copying Test. Males showed impairment only in visuo-spatial short-term memory. ANOVA analysis revealed significant main effects of APOE &#x3b5;4 status and sex on the MMSE, The Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, The Verbal Fluency, The Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices and The Pentagon-copying Test scores. Specifically, female APOE &#x3b5;4 carriers performed consistently worse than other groups on many tasks. For depression, only an effect of sex emerged. Females scored higher besides APOE genotype.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: These findings underscore the importance of considering both sex and APOE genotype when assessing cognitive performance in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy. The significant cognitive deficits we observed among females carrying the APOE &#x3b5;4 allele highlight previously unexplored genetic and sex-related influences on cognition. This has potential implications for personalized therapeutic strategies, emphasizing the need for targeted assessment and intervention.}, }
@article {pmid39876722, year = {2025}, author = {Hahner, L and Nieder, A}, title = {Volitional spatial attention is lateralized in crows.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {292}, number = {2039}, pages = {20242540}, pmid = {39876722}, issn = {1471-2954}, support = {//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows/physiology ; *Attention ; *Cues ; *Functional Laterality/physiology ; Space Perception/physiology ; Visual Fields/physiology ; Male ; Reaction Time ; Female ; Volition/physiology ; Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Like humans and many other animal species, birds exhibit left-right asymmetries in certain behaviours due to differences in hemispheric brain functions. While the lateralization of sensory and motor functions is well established in birds, the potential lateralization of high-level executive control functions, such as volitional attention, remains unknown. Here, we demonstrate that carrion crows exhibit more pronounced volitional (endogenous) attention for stimuli monocularly viewed with the left eye and thus in the left visual hemifield. We trained four crows on Posner-like spatial cueing tasks using informative cues to evaluate their volitional top-down attention. The crows detected cued targets using either the left or right eye. As a measure of volitional attention, we calculated reaction time differences for detecting targets that were correctly (validly) and incorrectly (invalidly) cued, separately for the left and right visual hemifields. We found that cued targets were detected more quickly and efficiently in the left visual field compared with the right visual field. Because the left-eye system of the crow's brain processes information primarily from the left visual hemifield, these findings suggest that crows, like humans, exhibit superior executive control of attention in the left-eye/right hemisphere system of their brains.}, }
@article {pmid39875490, year = {2025}, author = {Zheng, M and Wan, W and Fang, Z}, title = {Abstract visual reasoning based on algebraic methods.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {3482}, pmid = {39875490}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {2020AAA0109300//Ministry of Science and Technology/ ; 2020AAA0109300//Ministry of Science and Technology/ ; }, abstract = {Extracting high-order abstract patterns from complex high-dimensional data forms the foundation of human cognitive abilities. Abstract visual reasoning involves identifying abstract patterns embedded within composite images, considered a core competency of machine intelligence. Traditional neuro-symbolic methods often infer unknown objects through data fitting, without fully exploring the abstract patterns within composite images and the sequential sensitivity of visual sequences. This paper constructs a relation model with object-centric inductive biases, learning end-to-end multi-granular rule embeddings at different levels. Through a gating fusion module, the model incrementally integrates explicit representations of objects and abstract relationships. The model incorporates a relational bottleneck method from information theory, separating the input perceptual information from the embeddings of abstract representations, thereby restricting and differentiating feature processing to encourage relational comparisons and induce the extraction of abstract patterns. Furthermore, this paper bridges algebraic operations and machine reasoning through the relational bottleneck method, extracting common patterns of multi-visual objects by identifying invariant sequences within the relational bottleneck matrix. Experimental results on the I-RAVEN dataset demonstrate a total accuracy of 96.8%, surpassing state-of-the-art baseline methods and exceeding human performance at 84.4%.}, }
@article {pmid39871427, year = {2025}, author = {Patil, VI and Patil, SR}, title = {Optimized Transfer Learning With Hybrid Feature Extraction for Uterine Tissue Classification Using Histopathological Images.}, journal = {Microscopy research and technique}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1002/jemt.24787}, pmid = {39871427}, issn = {1097-0029}, abstract = {Endometrial cancer, termed uterine cancer, seriously affects female reproductive organs, and the analysis of histopathological images formed a golden standard for diagnosing this cancer. Sometimes, early detection of this disease is difficult because of the limited capability of modeling complicated relationships among histopathological images and their interpretations. Moreover, many previous methods do not effectively handle the cell appearance variations. Hence, this study develops a novel classification technique called transfer learning convolution neural network with artificial bald eagle optimization (TL-CNN with ABEO) for the classification of uterine tissue. Here, preprocessing is done by the median filter, followed by image enhancement by the multiple identities representation network (MIRNet). Moreover, pelican crow search optimization (PCSO) is used for adapting weights in MIRNet, where PCSO is generated by combining the crow search algorithm (CSA) and pelican optimization algorithm (POA). Then, segmentation quality assessment (SQA) helps in tissue segmentation, and deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) helps in parameter selection that is trained by fractional PCSO (FPCSO). Furthermore, feature extraction is done and, finally, cell classification is done by TL with CNN, which is trained by the proposed ABEO algorithm. Here, ABEO is newly developed by the integration of the bald eagle search (BES) algorithm and artificial hummingbird algorithm (AHA). Furthermore, ABEO + TL-CNN achieved a high accuracy of 89.59%, a sensitivity of 90.25%, and a specificity of 89.89% by utilizing the cancer image archive dataset.}, }
@article {pmid39854035, year = {2025}, author = {Yip, CCH and Wong, TT and Wong, BHD and Hsu, LS}, title = {Development and validation of a short form for the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices using a machine learning approach.}, journal = {The British journal of developmental psychology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1111/bjdp.12542}, pmid = {39854035}, issn = {2044-835X}, support = {//University Research Committee (URC), The University of Hong Kong/ ; }, abstract = {Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM) is a widely used assessment tool for measuring general cognitive ability in developmental and educational research, particularly in studies involving young children. However, administering the full set of the 36-item CPM can be burdensome for young participants, hindering its practicality in large-scale studies and reducing research efficiency. In the current study, a short form of the CPM was developed based on a sample of preschoolers (n = 336, mean age = 5.8 years) using penalised regression, a machine learning approach that allows for variable selection. The resulting 12-item CPM short form demonstrated a very strong correlation with the total score of the 36-item full form (r = .94). Further investigations into the short form's item stability, content validity, and concurrent validity collectively supported its psychometric properties as a reliable and valid alternative to the full form. The significance of the CPM short form is also discussed.}, }
@article {pmid39850750, year = {2025}, author = {Chen, Y and Xu, Y and Wang, J and Chen, T and Liu, B and Chen, P and Lu, C}, title = {The Eurasian Magpie Preys on the Nests of Vinous-throated Parrotbills in Invasive Smooth Cordgrass.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {e70905}, pmid = {39850750}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Native animals worldwide are experiencing long-term coexistence with invasive plants, leading to diverse behavioral changes. Invasive plants may create new habitat structures that affect the distribution or behavior of prey, which in turn might attract predators to these novel habitats, thereby altering predator-prey dynamics within the ecosystem. However, this phenomenon is rarely reported. Our previous research found that in the Yellow Sea wetlands of China, the native bird species, the vinous-throated parrotbill (Sinosuthora webbiana), has adapted to breeding in the invasive smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) by increasing its nesting height. Here, our observations indicate that in cordgrass habitats, the main nest predator of parrotbills was the Eurasian magpie (Pica pica), accounting for 75% of predation events. In contrast, in native habitats, the primary predators were mammals and snakes, accounting for 83% of predation events, with no nests being predated by magpies. We believe that changes in the breeding and nesting behavior of parrotbills may have attracted magpie predation in cordgrass habitats. Our findings may provide an empirical case of how behavioral changes induced by invasive plants can lead to dynamic shifts in predation relationships. We advocate for further research into this intriguing phenomenon, as it could enhance our understanding of changes in interspecific relationships and their ecological consequences within the context of biological invasions.}, }
@article {pmid39846022, year = {2024}, author = {Kim, M and Wut Hmohn, ZZ and Jang, W and Baek, G and Han, JI}, title = {Hematologic and clinical chemistry reference intervals for six species of wild birds frequently rescued in the Republic of Korea.}, journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {1484082}, pmid = {39846022}, issn = {2297-1769}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Reference intervals for hematologic and clinical chemistry values are useful when diagnosing a pathologic condition in animals. This study establishes relevant reference intervals for six species of wild birds that are frequently rescued at wildlife rescue centers in the Republic of Korea.<br><br>METHODS: Forty-two Eurasian eagle owls (Bubo bubo), 34 Oriental turtle doves (Streptopelia orientalis), 73 domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica), 27 brown hawk-owls (Ninox scutulata), 76 common kestrels (Falco tinnunculus), and 25 Eurasian magpies (Pica pica) were included in this study. Only released birds were included because they were judged to be clinically healthy through physical examinations, blood examinations, radiographic examinations, and flight evaluations. The reference intervals were set according to the American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology guideline, and if there were fewer than 20 birds, the reference intervals were set between the 2.5th percentile and the 97.5th percentile. One-way ANOVA was performed to compare hematologic and clinical chemistry parameters among species.<br><br>RESULTS: The total protein levels in carnivorous birds (Eurasian eagle owl, brown hawk-owl, and common kestrel) were significantly higher than those in omnivorous birds (Oriental turtle dove and domestic pigeon). The common kestrel exhibited significantly lower white blood cell counts and heterophil counts than other species. The Eurasian magpie had significantly higher eosinophils than other species.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study provides reference intervals for wild birds often rescued at wildlife rescue centers in Korea. It is expected that these reference intervals will be used as important data in diagnosing diseases in rescued wild birds.}, }
@article {pmid39843880, year = {2025}, author = {Dutry, M and Vereeck, A and Duyck, W and Derous, E and Schelfhout, S and Szmalec, A and Woumans, E and Schittekatte, M and Debeer, D and Dirix, N}, title = {Validation of the Children's International Cognitive Ability Resource (Ch-ICAR).}, journal = {Behavior research methods}, volume = {57}, number = {2}, pages = {66}, pmid = {39843880}, issn = {1554-3528}, mesh = {Humans ; Child ; Adolescent ; Male ; Female ; *Psychometrics/methods/instrumentation ; *Cognition/physiology ; Pilot Projects ; *Intelligence Tests/standards ; Reproducibility of Results ; Intelligence ; Wechsler Scales/standards ; }, abstract = {The International Cognitive Ability Resource, abbreviated ICAR, counters some of the practical problems researchers face when using good, but proprietary, licensed intelligence tests like the Wechsler tests, which include unfeasible administration times and financial costs. So far, ICAR has been validated for adolescents and adults in many countries, offering a viable test alternative for these populations. For use among children, however, the appropriateness of this resource was yet unknown. Therefore, we set out to develop a children's ICAR: an instrument composed of ICAR-items, which provides a measure of cognitive ability in children between 11 and 14 years of age. The present article discusses the compilation process of the Ch-ICAR drawing from a pilot study, and evaluates its validity based on two additional studies. The pilot study involved 99 primary school pupils and aimed to select items for the Ch-ICAR instrument. Study 1 investigated the basic psychometric qualities of the Ch-ICAR in a sample of 820 secondary school pupils. Study 2 examined the construct validity by cross-validating the Ch-ICAR with on the one hand Raven's 2 Progressive Matrices, and on the other hand the Flemish CoVaT-CHC Basic Version, relying on samples of 91 secondary and 96 primary school pupils, respectively. Results support the utility of the Ch-ICAR as a measure of children's cognitive abilities within a research context.}, }
@article {pmid39841628, year = {2025}, author = {Griffith, JI and James, HF and Ordoño, J and Fernández-Crespo, T and Gerritzen, CT and Cheung, C and Spros, R and Claeys, P and Goderis, S and Veselka, B and Snoeck, C}, title = {Reconstructing prehistoric lifeways using multi-Isotope analyses of human enamel, dentine, and bone from Legaire Sur, Spain.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {e0316387}, pmid = {39841628}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Humans ; *Dental Enamel/chemistry ; Spain ; *Dentin/chemistry ; Female ; *Bone and Bones/chemistry ; Archaeology/methods ; Male ; History, Ancient ; Strontium Isotopes/analysis ; Adult ; Carbon Isotopes/analysis ; Oxygen Isotopes/analysis ; Child ; }, abstract = {Megalithism has been repetitively tied to specialised herding economies in Iberia, particularly in the mountainous areas of the Basque Country. Legaire Sur, in the uplands of Álava region, is a recently excavated passage tomb (megalithic monument) that held a minimum number of 25 individuals. This study analysed the carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and strontium isotope ratios of 18 individuals, in a multi-tissue sampling study (successional tooth enamel sampling, incremental dentine sampling, and bulk bone collagen sampling). The results provide a high-resolution reconstruction of individual mobility, weaning, and dietary lifeways of those inhumed at the site. Oxygen and strontium isotope analysis suggest all individuals come from a similar, likely local, geological region, aside from one biological female who presents a notably different geographical birthplace, weaning, and dietary life history than the rest of the burial population. Comparisons to other nearby megalithic sites (∼35km as the crow flies), located in a valley area, reveal that, whilst sharing the same mortuary practices, these individuals held notably different lifeways. They highlight notably earlier ages of cessation of nursing (≤2 years at Legaire Sur vs. ≥4 years in other megalithic tombs), and a greater dependence on pastoralism than previously observed in lowland megalithic graves. The results from Legaire Sur reveal the complexity of the Late Neolithic-Chalcolithic transition in north-central Iberia, categorising yet another separate socio-economic group with distinctive lifeways inhabiting the region.}, }
@article {pmid39839126, year = {2024}, author = {Liu, B and Sun, H and Zhao, Q and Li, L and Tian, R and Lui, S and Zhu, H}, title = {Plastic but not progressive changes in cognitive function and hippocampal volume in an adolescent with bipolar disorder: a case report.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychiatry}, volume = {15}, number = {}, pages = {1507333}, pmid = {39839126}, issn = {1664-0640}, abstract = {Bipolar disorder (BD) is a prevalent mood disorder characterized by alternating episodes of depression and mania, often accompanied by varying degrees of cognitive impairment. Cognitive impairments often serve as indicators of a bleak prognosis or the likelihood of progressing to dementia. Additionally, some studies suggest that individuals diagnosed with BD may undergo a decline in hippocampal volume. However, the potential for reversibility of these changes, particularly in adolescents, remains unclear. We present an intriguing case involving an 18-year-old male student who experiences concurrent occurrences of both BD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), accompanied by a subtle reduction in hippocampal volume. Initially, the individual exhibited impaired general cognitive function, as indicated by an IQ score of 80 on the Standard Raven's Progressive Matrices test, and demonstrated slightly reduced bilateral hippocampal volume compared to the normative reference, as determined through quantitative structural magnetic resonance imaging (qsMRI). The deposition profiles of amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide in the brain were not identified with 18F-AV45 PET/MRI. Following six months of combined psychopharmacological treatment and cognitive behavioral therapy, the individual's psychopathological symptoms improved significantly, leading to a restoration of his IQ score to 116 and normalization of hippocampal volume. This case suggests that the hippocampal volume reduction and cognitive impairment seen in some adolescents with BD may demonstrate greater plasticity compared to neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). These findings highlight the potential importance of early intervention in young BD patients with cognitive impairments.}, }
@article {pmid39836991, year = {2025}, author = {Clark, JE}, title = {African American pharmacists and the evolution of black professional pharmacy associations.}, journal = {Currents in pharmacy teaching &amp; learning}, volume = {17}, number = {4}, pages = {102278}, doi = {10.1016/j.cptl.2024.102278}, pmid = {39836991}, issn = {1877-1300}, abstract = {The histography of Black professional pharmacist associations has largely been ignored. During the Jim Crow era there existed multiple and overlapping spaces within which Black civic and professional voluntary organizations engaged in representation and advocacy, professional support and development, cultural competence, community engagement and education, research and innovation, and diversity and inclusion in the professions. One group that has received minimal to no attention is that of the role of Black professional pharmacy organizations. Through historical review, several key points about Black professional pharmacy organizations will be explored. (This is the second of three papers dealing with key points of black professional pharmacy associations. This paper should be considered as a direct continuation of the preceding paper cited earlier).}, }
@article {pmid39823308, year = {2024}, author = {Liang, Y and Zhao, J and Yang, R and Bai, J and Hu, W and Gu, L and Lian, Z and Huo, H and Guo, J and Gong, H}, title = {PROCERA interacts with JACKDAW in gibberellin-enhanced source-sink sucrose partitioning in tomato.}, journal = {Plant physiology}, volume = {197}, number = {1}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1093/plphys/kiaf024}, pmid = {39823308}, issn = {1532-2548}, support = {32272706//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; }, mesh = {*Solanum lycopersicum/genetics/metabolism/growth &amp; development ; *Gibberellins/metabolism ; *Sucrose/metabolism ; *Plant Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; *Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; *Plant Leaves/metabolism/genetics ; Phloem/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Proper regulation of the source-sink relationship is an effective way to increase crop yield. Gibberellin (GA) is an important regulator of plant growth and development, and physiological evidence has demonstrated that GA can promote source-sink sucrose partitioning. However, the underlying molecular mechanism remains unclear. Here, we used a combination of physiological and molecular approaches to identify the components involved in GA-enhanced source-sink sucrose partitioning in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). GA treatment increased the sucrose export rate from source leaves and the sucrose level in young leaves (sink organ). GA-mediated enhancement of source-sink sucrose partitioning depended on SlPROCERA (SlPRO), the DELLA protein in tomato. Sucrose transporter 1 (SlSUT1) was involved in phloem sucrose loading. SlJACKDAW (SlJKD) was identified as an interaction partner of SlPRO. SlJKD negatively regulated the sucrose export rate from source leaves and could directly bind to the promoter of SlSUT1 and repress its expression, while SlPRO enhanced the transcription repression function of SlJKD. This study reveals the molecular mechanism by which GA promotes source-sink sucrose partitioning in tomato and provides potential targets for source-sink relationship optimization.}, }
@article {pmid39822556, year = {2024}, author = {Krishnakumar, A and Chellappan, DK and Jeyakodi, S and Dalal, M and Shetty, S}, title = {Efficacy and safety of a proprietary Punica granatum extract in skin health - a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study in healthy volunteers.}, journal = {American journal of translational research}, volume = {16}, number = {12}, pages = {8043-8053}, pmid = {39822556}, issn = {1943-8141}, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The concept of beauty from within is a growing trend in the market and people now look for oral supplements that can enhance the well-being of skin from within. Within this principle, a proprietary pomegranate extract (Grantria[®]), standardized to ellagic acid, punicic acid and punicalagin, was developed using ADOP (Advanced Oil-Powder) technology and was clinically evaluated for its efficacy and safety in healthy adults.<br><br>METHODS: This evaluation was carried out as a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study for 60 days at a daily dose of 300 mg. This study involved a total of 60 subjects randomized in the ratio of 1:1 to test group and placebo group. Multiple skin health parameters were evaluated before and after the intervention.<br><br>RESULTS: Data from this study indicated that Punica granatum extract significantly reduced crow's feet wrinkles, tactile roughness, forehead fine lines, forehead wrinkles and improved skin radiance compared to the placebo in 60 days. Other skin health attributes like pores, spots and UV pigmentation were also observed to exhibit significant changes. The test group showed a significant improvement in skin tone evenness, skin moisturisation, elasticity and firmness compared to the baseline. The Tyrosinase biomarker levels were observed to drop by 3% in the Grantria[&#xae;] supplemented group.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Grantria[&#xae;] was found to be effective, safe, and well accepted by the subjects making it a potential candidate for use in the supplements intended for maintaining healthy and glowing skin.}, }
@article {pmid39816752, year = {2025}, author = {De Nardi, A and Marini, G and Dorigatti, I and Rosà, R and Tamba, M and Gelmini, L and Prosperi, A and Menegale, F and Poletti, P and Calzolari, M and Pugliese, A}, title = {Quantifying West Nile virus circulation in the avian host population in Northern Italy.}, journal = {Infectious Disease Modelling}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {375-386}, pmid = {39816752}, issn = {2468-0427}, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) is one of the most threatening mosquito-borne pathogens in Italy where hundreds of human cases were recorded during the last decade. Here, we estimated the WNV incidence in the avian population in the Emilia-Romagna region through a modelling framework which enabled us to eventually assess the fraction of birds that present anti-WNV antibodies at the end of each epidemiological season. We fitted an SIR model to ornithological data, consisting of 18,989 specimens belonging to Corvidae species collected between 2013 and 2022: every year from May to November birds are captured or shot and tested for WNV genome presence. We found that the incidence peaks between mid-July and late August, infected corvids seem on average 17% more likely to be captured with respect to susceptible ones and seroprevalence was estimated to be larger than other years at the end of 2018, consistent with the anomalous number of recorded human infections. Thanks to our modelling study we quantified WNV infection dynamics in the corvid community, which is still poorly investigated despite its importance for the virus circulation. To the best of our knowledge, this is among the first studies providing quantitative information on infection and immunity in the bird population, yielding new important insights on WNV transmission dynamics.}, }
@article {pmid39814839, year = {2025}, author = {Jabari, M and Ekinci, S and Izci, D and Bajaj, M and Blazek, V and Prokop, L}, title = {Efficient pressure regulation in nonlinear shell-and-tube steam condensers via a Novel TDn(1 + PIDn) controller and DCSA algorithm.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {2090}, pmid = {39814839}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {TN02000025 National Centre for Energy II//Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports/ ; TN02000025 National Centre for Energy II//Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports/ ; CZ.10.03.01/00/22_003/0000048//Ministry of the Environment of the Czech Republic/ ; CZ.10.03.01/00/22_003/0000048//Ministry of the Environment of the Czech Republic/ ; }, abstract = {Steam condensers are vital components of thermal power plants, responsible for converting turbine exhaust steam back into water for reuse in the power generation cycle. Effective pressure regulation is crucial to ensure operational efficiency and equipment safety. However, conventional control strategies, such as PI, PI-PDn and FOPID controllers, often struggle to manage the nonlinearities and disturbances inherent in steam condenser systems. This paper introduces a novel multistage controller, TDn(1 + PIDn), optimized using the diligent crow search algorithm (DCSA). The proposed controller is specifically designed to address system nonlinearities, external disturbances, and the complexities of dynamic responses in steam condensers. Key contributions include the development of a flexible multi-stage control framework and its optimization via DCSA to achieve enhanced stability, faster response times, and reduced steady-state errors. Simulation results demonstrate that the TDn(1 + PIDn) controller outperforms conventional control strategies, including those tuned with advanced metaheuristic algorithms, in terms of settling time, overshoot, and integral of time weighted absolute error (ITAE). This study marks a significant advancement in pressure regulation strategies, providing a robust and adaptive solution for nonlinear industrial systems.}, }
@article {pmid39802701, year = {2025}, author = {Halder, P and Dixit, J and Gupta, N and Mehra, N and Singh, A and Malhotra, P and Mathew, A and Kumar, L and Chandra Kataki, A and Gupta, S and Prinja, S}, title = {Access to timely cancer treatment initiation in India: extent, determinants and trends.}, journal = {The Lancet regional health. Southeast Asia}, volume = {32}, number = {}, pages = {100514}, pmid = {39802701}, issn = {2772-3682}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Treatment delays are significantly associated with advanced stage, poor response to treatment, increased mortality risk, poor health outcomes, increased healthcare expenditures among cancer patients. However, factors associated with these delays have not yet been robustly evaluated. In order to bridge this gap, we determined the delayed time to treatment initiation (TTI) among cancer patients in India, ascertained its determinants, and assessed the trends of delayed TTI.<br><br>METHODS: We analysed data collected from 6695 cancer patients seeking outpatient/daycare treatment, recruited at purposively selected seven healthcare facilities across six states of India. Data on socio-demographic and clinical characteristics including date of cancer diagnosis, date of treatment initiation, cancer site, stage and type of treatment were collected to determine the median TTI and ascertain its determinants among cancer patients in India. Time to treatment initiation was calculated as the duration (days) between diagnosis of cancer (histologically/clinically) and date of initiation of treatment. Multi-variable logistic regression was employed to analyse the relationship between the outcome variable (TTI) and each explanatory variable. A Cox Proportional Hazard (CPH) model was used to conduct time-to-event analysis, and to assess the impact of government-funded health insurance on timely cancer treatment initiation.<br><br>FINDINGS: The median (IQR) overall TTI was 20 (7-39) days, with a mean of 53.7 days (SD, 192.9). The TTI was higher for those having head and neck cancer (median TTI: 29 days, IQR: 10.5-55.5) and those receiving radiotherapy as initial treatment (27.5 days, IQR: 10-49.5). Younger patients, those educated up to graduation level and males had significantly lower odds of delayed TTI. As compared to patients who were diagnosed between 1995 and 2017, those diagnosed after 2018 had a 36% (26-46%) higher odds of timely initiation of treatment within 30 days. Upon stratifying by enrolment under PMJAY, we found that while the access for timely treatment initiation increased by 33% for those who were not enrolled, vs. 90% among those enrolled under PM-JAY. Overall, this shows significant improvement in timely initiation of cancer treatment as a result of introduction of PM-JAY.<br><br>INTERPRETATION: The study highlights the positive impact of government-funded health insurance schemes on the timely access to cancer treatment in India. Our study recommends expanding AB PM-JAY cancer packages to include cost-effective treatments, increasing population coverage under screening programs and promoting e-RUPI to reduce financial constraints associated with diagnostic services to address delayed treatment initiation due to unknown cancer stages.<br><br>FUNDING: Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi, India.}, }
@article {pmid39802641, year = {2025}, author = {,  and ,  and Alexakis, L and Buczkowski, H and Ducatez, M and Fusaro, A and Gonzales, JL and Kuiken, T and Ståhl, K and Staubach, C and Svartström, O and Terregino, C and Willgert, K and Melo, M and Kohnle, L}, title = {Avian influenza overview September-December 2024.}, journal = {EFSA journal. European Food Safety Authority}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {e9204}, pmid = {39802641}, issn = {1831-4732}, abstract = {Between 21 September and 6 December 2024, 657 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) and A(H5N5) virus detections were reported in domestic (341) and wild (316) birds across 27 countries in Europe. Many HPAI outbreaks in domestic birds were clustered in areas with high poultry density and characterised by secondary farm-to-farm spread. Waterfowl, particularly the mute swan, were primarily affected during this reporting period, with HPAI virus detections focused on south-eastern Europe. Notably, A(H5N5) viruses expanded their geographic and host range, resulting in a surge in detections and mortality events described in gulls and crows. No new HPAI virus detections in mammals were reported in Europe during this reporting period, but the number of dairy cattle farms reportedly affected in the United States of America (USA) rose to >800 in 16 States, and HPAI virus was identified in two pigs in a mixed-species farm. Between 21 September and 11 December 2024, 56 new human cases with avian influenza virus infection were reported from North America (45 A(H5N1) cases), Viet Nam (one A(H5)) and China (ten A(H9N2) cases). Most of the A(H5) human cases in North America (95.6%, n = 43/45) had reported exposure to poultry, live poultry markets, or dairy cattle prior to avian influenza virus detection or onset of illness. Human infections with avian influenza viruses remain rare and no evidence of human-to-human transmission has been documented in the reporting period. The risk of infection with currently circulating avian A(H5) influenza viruses of clade 2.3.4.4b in Europe remains low for the general public in the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA). The risk of infection remains low-to-moderate for those occupationally or otherwise exposed to infected animals or contaminated environments.}, }
@article {pmid39800907, year = {2025}, author = {Manuskiatti, W and Wannawittayapa, T and Buranaporn, P and Wanitphadeedecha, R and Lizarondo, FPJ and Nokdhes, Y}, title = {The Efficacy and Safety of Synchronized Radiofrequency and High Intensity Facial Electrical Stimulation in Improving Facial Skin Laxity and Quality in Asians.}, journal = {Lasers in surgery and medicine}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1002/lsm.23878}, pmid = {39800907}, issn = {1096-9101}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Noninvasive aesthetic procedures for facial rejuvenation are gaining popularity. Conventional treatments, such as radiofrequency (RF) and high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), primarily improve skin quality but do not address the deeper musculoaponeurotic structures that affect facial laxity. A novel approach that delivers synchronized RF with high intensity facial electrical stimulation (HIFES) thought to target both the skin and underlying musculoaponeurotic framework to effectively enhance facial laxity has been investigated.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To assess the long-term efficacy and safety of combined synchronous RF and HIFES therapies in treating facial skin laxity among Asian subjects.<br><br>METHODS: In this prospective, evaluator-blinded study, 15 participants aged 40-65 years with mild to moderate facial skin laxity were enrolled. Each underwent four weekly treatments using a synchronized RF and HIFES system using noninvasive electrode applicators on the forehead and cheeks. Objective assessments included forehead and cheek lifting measurements using a 3D photographic system, eyebrow lifting measurement using ImageJ software, skin texture and melanin levels using Antera 3D&#xae;, and skin elasticity using Cutometer&#xae; MPA 580. Additionally, patients provided self-assessments regarding their perceived level of improvement. Assessments were conducted at baseline, before the 3rd treatment, and at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after the last treatment.<br><br>RESULTS: All participants completed the study. Significant improvements were observed in forehead and cheek lifting sustained at 6 months (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.0001). A significant eyebrow lift of 1.39&#x2009;mm was observed at 3 months (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.0087), with a sustained lifting distance of 1.31&#x2009;mm at 6 months (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.0021). Skin firmness improved substantially (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.0001), with R0 (skin firmness) increasing by 81.24% at 6 months. Skin texture improved notably in the crow's feet area (13.82% improvement at 3 months, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.049). Melanin levels decreased significantly in the crow's feet and forehead regions. Treatment was well tolerated, with pain scores decreasing from 3.5&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;1.8 to 1.6&#x202f;&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;1.0 by the fourth session. No serious adverse events occurred.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Combined synchronous RF and HIFES therapy is a safe and effective Noninvasive method of improving facial skin laxity and quality in Asian subjects. Lasers Surg. Med. 00:00-00, 2024. &#xa9; 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.}, }
@article {pmid39799780, year = {2025}, author = {van Schijndel, TJP and Jansen, BRJ}, title = {Integrating lines of research on children's curiosity-driven learning.}, journal = {Journal of experimental child psychology}, volume = {252}, number = {}, pages = {106168}, doi = {10.1016/j.jecp.2024.106168}, pmid = {39799780}, issn = {1096-0457}, mesh = {Humans ; Child ; Male ; Female ; *Exploratory Behavior ; *Mental Recall ; *Learning ; *Intelligence/physiology ; Attention ; }, abstract = {Epistemic curiosity is considered indispensable in children's learning, but previous empirical research on children's curiosity-driven learning has been fragmented; separate research lines tend to focus on single learning outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed at integrating different research lines by adapting an existing paradigm to investigate not only the relation between children's state curiosity and their memory performance but also their desire to explore. In addition, this study examined a possible mechanism through which curiosity affects recall: increased attentional processes. Last, this study investigated the role of intelligence and perceived prior knowledge in the relation between curiosity and recall. We applied a within-participants design in which the Trivia task (N = 32) and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices were administered to 10- to 12-year-olds. In the Trivia task, participants learn answers to trivia questions for which they have high and low curiosity, and subsequently recall is tested. Main findings include that children memorized trivia facts better when they were in a high-curious state rather than a low-curious state, and this positive relation may increase with intelligence. Importantly, the relation between curiosity and recall still held when taking into account perceived prior knowledge. Curiosity was positively related not only to recall but also to children's desire to further explore the concerning topic. Given that in some educational contexts promoting curiosity is not considered a priority and children express little school-related curiosity, an important value of this study for educational practice lies in the reinforcement of the notion of curiosity being a main driver of children's learning.}, }
@article {pmid39790721, year = {2025}, author = {Marie Montenegro, V and Mateo-Tomás, P and Schneider, J and Dent, DH and Crowther, T and Bello, C}, title = {Linking Functional Traits To Trophic Roles In Scavenger Assemblages.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {e70485}, pmid = {39790721}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Scavenging is a widespread feeding strategy involving a diversity of taxa from different trophic levels, from apex predators to obligate scavengers. Scavenger species play a crucial role in ecosystem functioning by removing carcasses, recycling nutrients and preventing disease spread. Understanding the trophic roles of scavenger species can help identify specialized species with unique roles and species that may be more vulnerable to ecological changes. To identify species with specialized roles, we studied three scavenger networks (one in north temperate Spain and two in central-south Mediterranean Spain) that comprised 25 scavenger species (65% birds and 35% mammals), consuming carcasses of four wild ungulate species. We characterized the trophic role of a species by combining four species-level network metrics (normalized degree, specialization, closeness, and betweenness centrality) into a single centrality metric, quantifying how scavenger species interact with carcass species within their ecological network. Higher centrality indicates the species feeds on a greater variety of carcasses and may contribute more to carrion consumption than species with lower centrality, which have more peripheral and specialized roles. The griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus) and the azure-winged magpie (Cyanopica cyanus) had the highest centrality. In contrast, the red kite (Milvus milvus) in the northern site had the lowest centrality, and the Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus) was among the most peripheral species for all three networks. In general, scavengers with large home ranges and nocturnal or crepuscular activity patterns tended to have more central roles, whereas species that forage silently tended to have more peripheral roles. Changes in species' centrality between sites and the high centrality of species with large home ranges suggest that management strategies in one location can have implications that extend beyond, highlighting the need to implement coordinated transboundary protection efforts to ensure the resilience and functionality of scavenger networks and derived ecosystem services.}, }
@article {pmid39779656, year = {2025}, author = {Worsfold, E and Clayton, NS and Cheke, LG}, title = {Revisiting episodic-like memory in scrub jays: Is there more we can still learn from what-where-when caching behaviour?.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {39779656}, issn = {1543-4508}, abstract = {Professor Nicola Clayton is perhaps best known for her work on food-caching scrub jays. Her seminal 1998 paper, together with Anthony Dickinson, showed that scrub jays could remember what food they had cached, where and how long ago, suggesting memory ability that is 'episodic-like' in nature. Here, we present data from a previously unpublished study that sought to replicate and extend these findings. The results replicate previous findings and address potential alternative explanations for earlier results. We argue that the controlled behavioural analyses introduced in this study have the potential to add nuance to our understanding of memory in scrub jay cache retrieval, and to inspire new studies exploring this phenomenon, about which we still have so much to learn.}, }
@article {pmid39774767, year = {2025}, author = {Gallo, L and Kim, P and Churchill, I and Rae, C and Voineskos, SH and Thoma, A and Pusic, AL and Cano, SJ and Klassen, AF}, title = {Establishing Convergent Validity of the Face-Q Aesthetics Module Scales.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1093/asj/sjaf003}, pmid = {39774767}, issn = {1527-330X}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: FACE-Q Aesthetics scales assess patient-important outcomes following both surgical/nonsurgical facial cosmetic interventions. Convergent validity is the degree to which the scores of one measurement relate to another measuring a similar construct.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: This study aims to establish the convergent validity of 11 FACE-Q Aesthetics appearance scales using the MERZ Aesthetics scales.<br><br>METHODS: Data were collected from an online international sample of participants aged &#x2265;20 years, who presented to a dermatologist or plastic surgeon within the last 12 months for a minimally invasive facial aesthetic treatment. Participants provided demographic and clinical data and completed 11 FACE-Q Aesthetics scales and 12 MERZ Aesthetics scales. Hypotheses regarding the strength of correlations between scales were generated a priori. Adequate convergent validity was based on percentage of correct hypotheses (>75%) and/or correlation &#x2265;0.50 with an instrument measuring a similar construct.<br><br>RESULTS: 1259 participants were included in this survey. Participants were on average 42.6 (&#xb1;11.9) years old, and mostly female (72.5%), Caucasian (76.9%), and living in the United States (49.9%) or the United Kingdom (42.9%). FACE-Q Lines Overall, Lower Face and Jawline, Appraisal of Lines - Forehead/Between Eyebrows/Crow's Feet/Lips/Nasolabial Folds/Marionette, and Lips scales demonstrated adequate convergent validity with patient reported MERZ Aesthetics scales. The FACE-Q Face Overall and Cheeks scales did not show adequate convergent validity.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study provides evidence of convergent validity for FACE-Q Aesthetics appearance scales. Establishing validity of these scales remains an iterative process and further studies comparing the FACE-Q to other related measurement tools are required to strengthen this evidence.}, }
@article {pmid39772751, year = {2025}, author = {Hashimoto-Roth, E and Forget, D and Gaspar, VP and Bennett, SAL and Gauthier, MS and Coulombe, B and Lavallée-Adam, M}, title = {MAGPIE: A Machine Learning Approach to Decipher Protein-Protein Interactions in Human Plasma.}, journal = {Journal of proteome research}, volume = {24}, number = {2}, pages = {383-396}, doi = {10.1021/acs.jproteome.4c00160}, pmid = {39772751}, issn = {1535-3907}, mesh = {Humans ; *Machine Learning ; *Tandem Mass Spectrometry/methods ; *Blood Proteins/metabolism/analysis ; *Protein Interaction Mapping/methods ; *Algorithms ; *Immunoprecipitation/methods ; Proteomics/methods ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {Immunoprecipitation coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (IP-MS/MS) methods are often used to identify protein-protein interactions (PPIs). While these approaches are prone to false positive identifications through contamination and antibody nonspecific binding, their results can be filtered using negative controls and computational modeling. However, such filtering does not effectively detect false-positive interactions when IP-MS/MS is performed on human plasma samples. Therein, proteins cannot be overexpressed or inhibited, and existing modeling algorithms are not adapted for execution without such controls. Hence, we introduce MAGPIE, a novel machine learning-based approach for identifying PPIs in human plasma using IP-MS/MS, which leverages negative controls that include antibodies targeting proteins not expected to be present in human plasma. A set of negative controls used for false positive interaction modeling is first constructed. MAGPIE then assesses the reliability of PPIs detected in IP-MS/MS experiments using antibodies that target known plasma proteins. When applied to five IP-MS/MS experiments as a proof of concept, our algorithm identified 68 PPIs with an FDR of 20.77%. MAGPIE significantly outperformed a state-of-the-art PPI discovery tool and identified known and predicted PPIs. Our approach provides an unprecedented ability to detect human plasma PPIs, which enables a better understanding of biological processes in plasma.}, }
@article {pmid39767918, year = {2024}, author = {Rymarczyk, K and Makowska, I and Hyniewska, S}, title = {The Impact of the Interactive Floor Device and Aerobic Training on Executive Functions in Children.}, journal = {Children (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {11}, number = {12}, pages = {}, pmid = {39767918}, issn = {2227-9067}, abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Considering the importance of physical activity on the development of cognitive functions in children, the aim of this study was to assess the effects of a ten-week training program using the Interactive Floor device (© Funtronic), i.e., a kinesthetic educational game, and aerobic activity training on executive functions in 9-year-old children. Given current knowledge of the advantages of gamification and on-task switching, stronger improvement was expected for the Interactive Floor device than aerobic exercise activities.<br><br>METHODS: Sixty-four children (29 boys/35 girls) were randomly assigned to the Interactive Floor (n = 22), Aerobic Training (n = 22), or Control groups (n = 20). The participants had their cognitive abilities assessed twice (pre- and post-intervention) using computer tests from the Vienna Test System (VTS) and subtests from the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children[&#xae;] Fifth Edition (WISC[&#xae;]-V). From VTS, the Stroop Test was used to measure inhibition and attentional control, while the Corsi Block test assessed visuospatial short-term working memory. To assess auditory working memory, the Digit Span subtest from the WISC[&#xae;]-V was applied. Additionally, fluid intelligence was estimated using Raven's Progressive Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: Repeated-measures mixed ANOVA and post hoc tests with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons showed that all intervention program groups improved in terms of intelligence and non-verbal abstract reasoning. The second significant finding in this study was that especially children from the Interactive Floor group developed their executive functions, i.e., inhibition and attentional control as well as their spatial short-term memory capacity.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that a combination of both physical exercise and cognitive games in the Interactive Floor group resulted in greater improvement in cognitive abilities in children than aerobic exercise or physical education lessons. It seems that a multidisciplinary approach combining physical and cognitive stimulation effectively promotes child development. Future programs aiming to improve cognitive skills in children should consider incorporating interactive and engaging activities that stimulate both the body and the mind.}, }
@article {pmid39761472, year = {2024}, author = {Strozier, CB}, title = {Historical and Psychological Authenticity.}, journal = {Psychoanalytic review}, volume = {111}, number = {4}, pages = {475-480}, doi = {10.1521/prev.2024.111.4.475}, pmid = {39761472}, issn = {1943-3301}, mesh = {Humans ; *Psychoanalysis/history ; Culture ; Psychoanalytic Theory ; History, 20th Century ; }, abstract = {In this reflection the author examines the question of authenticity in the culture and in his own experience as a historian and psychoanalyst. His vantage points are death and totalism, the nature of facts, and the spiritual and psychological access to truth.}, }
@article {pmid39754886, year = {2025}, author = {Liao, DA and Moll, FW and Nieder, A}, title = {Bridging the fields of cognition and birdsong with corvids.}, journal = {Current opinion in neurobiology}, volume = {90}, number = {}, pages = {102965}, doi = {10.1016/j.conb.2024.102965}, pmid = {39754886}, issn = {1873-6882}, abstract = {Corvids, readily adaptable across social and ecological contexts, successfully inhabit almost the entire world. They are seen as highly intelligent birds, and current research examines their cognitive abilities. Despite being songbirds with a complete 'song system', corvids have historically received less attention in studies of song production, learning, and perception compared to non-corvid songbirds. However, recent neurobiological studies have demonstrated that songbird vocal production and its neuronal representations are regularly influenced by environmental and cognitive factors. This opinion article discusses the literature on 'corvid song' before introducing other flexible vocal behaviors of corvids in both the wild and controlled laboratory studies. We suggest corvids with their flexible vocal control as promising model species to study the links between brain networks for cognition and vocalization. Studying corvid vocal flexibility and associated cognitive processes in both ecological and lab settings offers complementary insights, crucial for bridging the fields of cognition and birdsong.}, }
@article {pmid39747893, year = {2025}, author = {Loji, K and Sharma, S and Sharma, G and Rawat, T}, title = {Multiobjective distribution system operation with demand response to optimize solar hosting capacity, voltage deviation index and network loss.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {300}, doi = {10.1038/s41598-024-82379-7}, pmid = {39747893}, issn = {2045-2322}, abstract = {In this research, demand response impact on the hosting capacity of solar photovoltaic for distribution system is investigated. The suggested solution model is formulated and presented as a tri-objective optimization that consider maximization of solar PV hosting capacity (HC), minimization of network losses (Loss) and maintaining node voltage deviation (VDev) within acceptable limits. These crucial objectives are optimized simultaneously as well as individually. To assess the efficacy of the solution, different multi-objective case studies are scrutinised based on the combinations of (i) HC and Loss, (ii) HC and VDev, (iii) Loss and VDev, (iv) HC Loss and VDev simultaneously with the effect of demand response. The multi-objective research problem is formulated as non-linear and non-convex programming approach. To solve this complex problem, the modified crow search optimization (MCSO) is proposed. The MCSO achieved the 0.0714 MW of network loss with the optimal integration of distributed generation and is comparable to the well-established optimization algorithms available in literature. From the simulation results, it is found that HC is 3322.31 kW, VDev is 0.4982 p.u and system losses is 1314.86 kWh with demand response program when all the objectives are simultaneously optimized. The simulation outcomes highlight the superiority of the MCSO over others. The application results show the benefits and the beauty of proposed research work.}, }
@article {pmid39747186, year = {2025}, author = {Bapat, A and Kempf, AE and Friry, S and Boucherie, PH and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Patterns of object play behaviour and its functional implications in free-flying common ravens.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {137}, pmid = {39747186}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {P33960//Austrian Science Fund/ ; P33960//Austrian Science Fund/ ; P33960//Austrian Science Fund/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows/physiology ; *Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Female ; Male ; *Social Behavior ; Play and Playthings/psychology ; Austria ; }, abstract = {Object play has been proposed to provide individuals with information about their environment, facilitating foraging skills and tool use. In species where object play co-occurs with locomotor or social play, it may have additional functional implications, such as facilitating the evaluation of peers or forming social bonds. For instance, ravens judge others' competitiveness via play caching and engage in social play by exchanging objects. However, most raven studies were conducted on a restricted number of individuals and under controlled captive settings. To validate these findings and to gauge the functional scope of object play under field conditions, we investigated the patterns and characteristics of object play in individually marked free-flying ravens in the Austrian Alps. Using two large data sets, we show a decrease in object play with age and a preference for playing longer with novel objects, supporting findings from captivity. We also find adults occasionally playing with objects and no difference in the duration of social or non-social object play bouts across age classes. Taken together, our findings are in line with the assumption that raven object play likely has more than one function and serves to gain information about the individual's physical and social environment.}, }
@article {pmid39738990, year = {2024}, author = {Summers, J and Cosgrove, EJ and Bowman, R and Fitzpatrick, JW and Chen, N}, title = {Density dependence maintains long-term stability despite increased isolation and inbreeding in the Florida Scrub-Jay.}, journal = {Ecology letters}, volume = {27}, number = {12}, pages = {e14483}, pmid = {39738990}, issn = {1461-0248}, support = {R35 GM133412/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; 1R35GM133412/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Inbreeding ; Florida ; *Population Dynamics ; Population Density ; Passeriformes/physiology ; Ecosystem ; Male ; Female ; }, abstract = {Isolation caused by anthropogenic habitat fragmentation can destabilize populations. Populations relying on the inflow of immigrants can face reduced fitness due to inbreeding depression as fewer new individuals arrive. Empirical studies of the demographic consequences of isolation are critical to understand how populations persist through changing conditions. We used a 34-year demographic and environmental dataset from a population of cooperatively breeding Florida Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) to create mechanistic models linking environmental and demographic factors to population growth rates. We found that the population has not declined despite both declining immigration and increasing inbreeding, owing to a coinciding response in breeder survival. We find evidence of density-dependent immigration, breeder survival and fecundity, indicating that interactions between vital rates and local density play a role in buffering the population against change. Our study elucidates the impacts of isolation on demography and how long-term stability is maintained via demographic responses.}, }
@article {pmid39738289, year = {2024}, author = {Lanszki, J and Molnár, TG and Erős, T and Ónodi, G and Lanszki, Z and Purger, JJ}, title = {Testing how environmental variables affect the survival of freshwater turtle nests and hatchlings using artificial nests and dummy hatchlings.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {31713}, pmid = {39738289}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-00014//Hungarian National Multidisciplinary Laboratory for Climate Change/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Turtles/physiology ; *Nesting Behavior/physiology ; *Predatory Behavior/physiology ; *Ecosystem ; Fresh Water ; Reproduction/physiology ; Wetlands ; Female ; }, abstract = {The European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) is a wide-ranging, long-living freshwater species with low reproductive success, mainly due to high predation pressure. We studied how habitat variables and predator communities in near-natural marshes affect the survival of turtle eggs and hatchlings. We followed the survival of artificial turtle nests placed in marshes along Lake Balaton (Hungary) in May and June as well as hatchlings (dummies) exposed in September. We found that the fewest nests remained intact in the least disturbed, most extensive area with the largest turtle population without predator control. Hatchlings, compared to nests had a significantly higher probability of survival. The density of carnivore dens indicated the negative influence on the number of exposure days, while marsh vegetation coverage was unrelated. The role of carnivores, especially the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) in the predation of nests was more significant, while predation by corvids (Corvidae) and wild boar (Sus scrofa) increased for the hatchlings. Predation by mammals increased with the limited availability of dry terrestrial surfaces suitable for laying eggs and with distance to water. Our multifactorial analyses highlight the need for targeted conservation efforts to improve the reproductive success of turtles in these ecologically sensitive environments.}, }
@article {pmid39730827, year = {2024}, author = {Selvaraj, G and Rajangam, K and Vishnuram, P and Bajaj, M and Zaitsev, I}, title = {Optimal power scheduling in real-time distribution systems using crow search algorithm for enhanced microgrid performance.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {30982}, pmid = {39730827}, issn = {2045-2322}, abstract = {Microgrids (MGs) have gained significant attention over the past two decades due to their advantages in service reliability, easy integration of renewable energy sources, high efficiency, and enhanced power quality. In India, low-voltage side customers face significant challenges in terms of power supply continuity and voltage regulation. This paper presents a novel approach for optimal power scheduling in a microgrid, aiming to provide uninterrupted power supply with improved voltage regulation (VR). To address these challenges, a crow search algorithm is developed for effective load scheduling within the distribution system. The proposed method minimizes the total operating cost (TOC) and maximizes VR under varying loading conditions and distributed generation (DG) configurations. A case study in Tamil Nadu, India, is conducted using a microgrid composed of three distributed generation sources (DGs), modeled and simulated using the Electrical Transient Analyzer Program (ETAP) environment. The proposed approach is tested under three operational scenarios: grid-connected mode, islanded mode, and grid-connected mode with one DG outage. Results indicate that the crow search algorithm significantly optimizes load scheduling, leading to a substantial reduction in power loss and enhancement in voltage profiles across all scenarios. The islanded mode operation using the crow search algorithm demonstrates a remarkable reduction in TOC and maximizes voltage regulation compared to other modes. The main contributions of this work include: (1) developing a new meta-heuristic approach for power scheduling in microgrids using the crow search algorithm, (2) achieving optimal power flow and load scheduling to minimize TOC and improve VR, and (3) successfully implementing the proposed methodology in a real-time distribution system using ETAP. The findings showcase the effectiveness of the crow search algorithm in microgrid power management and its potential for application in other real-time power distribution systems.}, }
@article {pmid39730262, year = {2025}, author = {Danek, A}, title = {The 1888 dissertation of a female medical student, Ueber Character-Veränderungen des Menschen in Folge von Laesionen des Stirnhirns (On character changes of man as a consequence of lesions of the frontal lobe).}, journal = {Cortex; a journal devoted to the study of the nervous system and behavior}, volume = {182}, number = {}, pages = {217-227}, doi = {10.1016/j.cortex.2024.11.008}, pmid = {39730262}, issn = {1973-8102}, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; History, 19th Century ; *Frontal Lobe ; Academic Dissertations as Topic ; Brain Injuries ; Switzerland ; }, abstract = {A case of brain injury with a transient syndrome of mainly disinhibited behaviour (Franz Binz) was the subject of the 1888 medical dissertation of Leonore Welt (∗1859 Chernivtsi, Ukraine; †1944 Geneva, Switzerland) which came to be discussed quite controversially. Although Binz was never fully forgotten, the similar "American crow-bar case" (Phineas Gage) attracted more interest. Welt's study, in contrast, provides not only well-illustrated neuropathological findings but also more detailed clinical data. Here, the clinical report and sections of its analysis are translated from the German original. Through comparison with similar cases, Welt proposed the straight gyrus (gyrus rectus) as the main area responsible. The transient nature of the behavioural alteration was taken as indicating a peculiar disease process at that location. She stressed that disinhibited behaviour suggests fronto-orbital lesions, but that the conclusion is not to be reversed. She had noted the absence of symptoms in the majority of similarly situated injuries: normal behaviour thus being no proof of an intact fronto-orbital region. Along with two sisters, Rosa Welt-Straus (1856-1938) and Sara Welt-Kakels (1860-1943), Leonore Gourfein-Welt was among the first females from then Austria to graduate in medicine - against considerable resistance. After her thesis work, she turned to practising ophthalmology in Geneva.}, }
@article {pmid39719650, year = {2024}, author = {Pan, DN and Xie, H and Zeng, Y and Zhou, Y and Lin, C and Ma, X and Ren, J and Jiao, Y and Wu, Y and Wei, W and Xue, G}, title = {The development and validation of a tablet-based assessment battery of general cognitive ability.}, journal = {BMC psychology}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {778}, pmid = {39719650}, issn = {2050-7283}, support = {YYBB29//by Science Foundation of Beijing Language and Culture University (supported by "the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities")/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; Adult ; Reproducibility of Results ; Young Adult ; *Cognition ; *Computers, Handheld ; Adolescent ; *Neuropsychological Tests/standards ; Psychometrics/instrumentation ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Memory, Short-Term ; Attention ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Traditional cognitive assessments, often reliant on paper-and-pencil tests and professional evaluators, suffer from subjectivity and limited result discrimination. This study introduces the Baguan Online Cognitive Assessment System (BOCAS), a tablet-based system that evaluates both general cognitive ability (GCA) and domain-specific functions across six domains: sensory-motor skills, processing speed, sustained attention, working memory, cognitive flexibility, and spatial ability.<br><br>METHODS: BOCAS was validated with 151 healthy Chinese adults aged 18-40. Reliability was assessed through internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were used to validate the model. The GCA score was correlated with the Raven IQ test and self-reported cognitive flexibility, and its relationship with negative emotions (depression and anxiety) was examined.<br><br>RESULTS: BOCAS showed satisfactory reliability, with internal consistency ranging from 0.712 to 0.846 and test-retest reliability from 0.56 to 0.71. Factor analysis revealed a common factor explaining 40% of the variance, and CFA indicated a good model fit (&#x3c7;&#xb2;/df&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.81; CFI&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.932). The GCA score strongly correlated with the Raven IQ test (r&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.58) and was related to self-reported cognitive flexibility and negative emotions.<br><br>CONCLUSION: BOCAS offers a digital solution for cognitive assessment, providing automated, remote, and precise evaluations. It demonstrates reliability, validity, and potential for use in clinical and research settings.}, }
@article {pmid39719346, year = {2024}, author = {Wang, Y and Li, Q and Yin, L and Zheng, J and Sun, W and He, A and Fei, X and Cao, Y}, title = {[Nutritional status and height development of rural children aged 10-12 years in Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, and the relationship with intelligence quotient in 2019].}, journal = {Wei sheng yan jiu = Journal of hygiene research}, volume = {53}, number = {6}, pages = {956-998}, doi = {10.19813/j.cnki.weishengyanjiu.2024.06.017}, pmid = {39719346}, issn = {1000-8020}, mesh = {Humans ; Child ; *Nutritional Status ; Male ; Female ; *Rural Population/statistics &amp; numerical data ; China/epidemiology ; *Intelligence ; *Body Height ; Body Mass Index ; Child Development ; Intelligence Tests ; Body Weight ; Students/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Overweight/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate the nutritional status, height development and intellectual development level of rural children aged 10-12 years in Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, and to analyze the relationship between the nutritional status and height development of local schoolchildren and their intellectual development.<br><br>METHODS: In 2019, a total of 1721 students were selected from 8 counties(cities) under the jurisdiction of Linxia Prefecture in Gansu Province, with 1 township selected from each county in 5 directions: east, west, south, north, and central. One primary school was randomly selected from each township, and 45 students aged 10-12 were selected from each primary school. Measure children&apos;s height and weight data, calculate body mass index(BMI). Using the Chinese Joint Raven Test(Rural Edition) for intelligence testing and using the norm to calculate their intelligence quotient(IQ). Based on national standards for children&apos;s nutrition, height development, and intelligence, explore the relationship between children&apos;s nutritional status, height development, and intelligence.<br><br>RESULTS: The IQ of children with moderate to severe weight loss, mild weight loss, normal, overweight, and obesity were 102.7, 102.8, 103.3, 102.5 and 106.9, respectively. The better the nutritional status of children, the higher their IQ values, and the intelligence of children was statistically significant(H=602.816, P<0.001). The detection rate of intellectual disability in overweight children was 0%, while the detection rate of low, marginal, and extremely excellent intelligence in obese children was 0%. The IQ of children in the growth retardation group and non growth retardation group were 99.5 and 103.3, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant(U=171.000, P<0.05). The intelligence of children with different height development levels is statistically significant(H=55.174, P<0.001), and the average intelligence of children increases with the increase of height levels. The detection rate of low and marginal intelligence among children with upper height was 0%, the detection rate of extremely high intelligence was also 0%, and the detection rate of average and above intelligence was 90.9%. Ordered logistic regression analysis showed that the height level was above average(OR=0.598, 95%CI 0.397-0.899, P<0.05), above average(OR=0.002, 95%CI 0.027 2-0.747, P<0.05), nutritional status was normal(OR=0.633, 95%CI 0.484-0.980, P<0.05), overweight(OR=0.487, 95%CI 0.299-0.795, P<0.05), obesity(OR=0.569, 95%CI 0.358-0.907, P<0.05), and non growth and developmental delay(OR=0.578, 95%CI 0.371-0.901, P<0.05) were all local. Protective factors for the intelligence of children.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The nutritional status and height development of rural children in Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province are related to intelligence. Normal or above nutritional status and normal height development are beneficial for the development of children&apos;s intelligence, but obesity and superior height development may affect the development of excellent intelligence in children.}, }
@article {pmid39712390, year = {2024}, author = {Chang, C and Sun, Y and Li, T and Weng, B and Zou, Y}, title = {Coupling-Controlled Photonic Topological Ring Array.}, journal = {ACS photonics}, volume = {11}, number = {12}, pages = {5260-5266}, pmid = {39712390}, issn = {2330-4022}, abstract = {Photonic topological insulators with boundary states present a robust solution to mitigate structure imperfections. By alteration of the virtual boundary between trivial and topological insulators, it is possible to bypass such defects. Coupled resonator optical waveguides (CROWs) have demonstrated their utility in realizing photonic topological insulators, as they exhibit distinct topological phases and band structures. With this characteristic, we designed and experimentally validated a CROW array capable of altering its topological phase by adjusting the coupling strength. This array functions partially as a topological insulator and partially as a topologically trivial array, guiding light along the virtuous boundary between these two regions. By altering the shape of the topological insulator, we can effectively control the optical path. This approach promises practical applications, such as optical switches, dynamic light steering, optical sensing, and optical computing.}, }
@article {pmid39704510, year = {2024}, author = {Luo, M and Zhao, Q and Liu, W and Xu, J and He, Z}, title = {Modified Infrabrow Blepharoplasty for Periorbital Rejuvenation in Asia Women.}, journal = {The Journal of craniofacial surgery}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1097/SCS.0000000000011030}, pmid = {39704510}, issn = {1536-3732}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The infrabrow blepharoplasty is a common surgical operation indicated in Asians for periorbital rejuvenation. This operation alone is difficult to achieve the correction of crow's feet. Therefore, the authors elucidate the authors' experiences of applying infrabrow blepharoplasty combined with the subcutaneous undermining of the lateral periorbital region to treat upper eyelid dermatochalasis with lateral hooding deformity and alleviate crow's feet, including its indications, operative procedures, and postoperative outcomes.<br><br>METHODS: Retrospective review of patients undergoing infrabrow blepharoplasty incorporated with subcutaneous undermining of the lateral periorbital region between January 2019 and December 2023. Thirty-nine patients who were well followed up were retrospectively reviewed. The surgical procedure is described in depth. Frontal and lateral view photographs were obtained to evaluate the curative effect. The following data were collected preoperatively and at postoperative 6 months: distance between the pupil centre and the supratarsal fold, distance between the pupil centre and lower margin of eyebrow, distance between the lateral canthus and the supratarsal fold, distance between the lateral canthus and lower margin of eyebrow, the rating of Crow's Feet Grading Scale (CFGS) at rest and at a maximum smile.<br><br>RESULTS: The study included 78 eyelids of 39 patients ranging in age from 37 to 56 years, with a mean age of 46.25 years. The mean follow-up for the patients was 6.7 months. Compared with the postoperation with the preoperation, distance between the pupil centre and the supratarsal fold increased from 5.45 &#xb1; 1.31 to 5.98 &#xb1; 1.62&#xa0;mm, distance between the lateral canthus and the supratarsal fold increased from 3.93 &#xb1; 1.24 to 6.13 &#xb1; 1.87&#xa0;mm, no evidence of significant changes in distance between the pupil centre and lower margin of eyebrow and distance between the lateral canthus and lower margin of eyebrow. The average change in the rating of CFGS was -0.62 &#xb1; 0.11 at maximum contraction and -0.24 &#xb1; 0.08 at rest. No significant complications occurred in any patient postoperatively.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The combination of infrabrow blepharoplasty with the subcutaneous undermining of the lateral periorbital region was effective in addressing moderate dermatochalasis with lateral hooding and improve crow's feet in middle-aged Chinese patients, resulting in a rejuvenated periorbital area and flattening of the eyebrow is not noted at the same time. The anthropometric measurement of the upper eyelid and CFGS facilitate operation outcome assessment.}, }
@article {pmid39704133, year = {2025}, author = {Cartier, H and Deutsch, JJ and Braccini, F and Garcia, P and Ehlinger, A and David, M and Loreto, F and Benadiba, L and Grand-Vincent, A and Mathey, ER and Nadra, K and Fanian, F}, title = {Long-Term Performance and Safety of a Superficial HA Filler With Tri-Hyal Technology on Different Facial Zones: Forehead, Cheeks, Crow's Feet, and Upper Lips.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {24}, number = {1}, pages = {e16565}, pmid = {39704133}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Humans ; *Hyaluronic Acid/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; *Dermal Fillers/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; Single-Blind Method ; Female ; Middle Aged ; Prospective Studies ; *Forehead ; *Lip ; *Cheek ; *Cosmetic Techniques/adverse effects ; Adult ; Male ; Treatment Outcome ; Face ; Aged ; Hyaluronoglucosaminidase/administration &amp; dosage ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The function of injectable hyaluronic acid-based fillers is to smooth dermal wrinkles formed during aging. The aim of this study is to evaluate the performance and safety of a dermal filler after its commercialization.<br><br>METHODS: In this context, an 18-month prospective randomized single-blind study for the efficacy and safety of ART FILLER Fine Lines (AFFL) was performed on the forehead, the upper lip, the cheek folds, and the crow's feet. The efficacy, the longevity, and the safety were evaluated after a single filler injection without any re-touch injection. The persistence of the correction was evaluated at 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, and 18&#x2009;months.<br><br>RESULTS: The observations performed on 196 subjects enrolled showed that AFFL injections induced a significant improvement in wrinkle correction for all the assessed areas. These effects were significant as soon as 3&#x2009;weeks after injection and remained significant until 18&#x2009;months. Furthermore, injections of AFFL were well tolerated and no severe event was recorded. The minor reported reactions were resolved within 3&#x2009;weeks.<br><br>CONCLUSION: AFFL with Tri-Hyal technology is suitable and well tolerated for the treatment of superficial wrinkles without any irregularity or Tyndall effect and showed a prolonged efficacy for at least 18&#x2009;months.}, }
@article {pmid39703216, year = {2024}, author = {Wolff, LM and Stevens, JR}, title = {Less activity means improved welfare? How pair housing influences pinyon jay (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) behaviour.}, journal = {Animal welfare (South Mimms, England)}, volume = {33}, number = {}, pages = {e49}, pmid = {39703216}, issn = {2054-1538}, abstract = {The activity level and specific behaviours exhibited by captive animals are crucial indicators of welfare. Stereotypies, or repetitive behaviours that have no apparent function or goal, are performed by animals experiencing poor conditions in their environment and indicate welfare concerns. Changes in the housing environment in particular may have critical influences on behaviour and welfare. Here, we measured behavioural changes in a captive pinyon jay (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) population (n = 10) associated with a shift from single to pair housing. Using automated video processing, we show that pair housing greatly reduced overall activity levels in these birds. The stark reduction in activity was surprising, as we expected that social housing would increase interactions between birds, thus increasing activity levels. Upon further analysis, however, we found that stereotypic behaviours, such as beak scraping, jumping, pecking, and route tracing decreased after pair housing, whereas the positive welfare behaviours of perching and preening increased. Our results indicate that pair housing may reduce overall activity in pinyon jays; however, this reduction is primarily in stereotypic behaviours.}, }
@article {pmid39701437, year = {2024}, author = {Bolognia, JL and Braverman, IM}, title = {The New Sydenham Society's Atlas of Portraits of Diseases of the Skin - an Educational Tool.}, journal = {Clinics in dermatology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1016/j.clindermatol.2024.12.014}, pmid = {39701437}, issn = {1879-1131}, abstract = {In 1859, the New Sydenham Society undertook the publication of an Atlas of Portraits of Diseases of the Skin, having been inspired by Ferdinand Ritter von Hebra's Atlas der Hautkrankheiten. Utilizing information contained in Sir Jonathan Hutchinson's Descriptive Catalogue of the New Sydenham's Society Atlas of Portraits of Diseases of the Skin (published in 1869 and 1875), an exhibit of twenty-five illustrations of cutaneous disorders, along with teaching points, was held at the Harvey Cushing/John Jay Whitney Medical Library at Yale University. It served as an educational tool for dermatologists, dermatology residents, medical students, and even physicians from other specialties.}, }
@article {pmid39698066, year = {2024}, author = {Ranjan, R and Adhikary, D and Ken-Dror, G and Yusuf, MA and Moureen, A and Hakim, M and Sharma, P}, title = {Anthropometric Measurements in Predicting Haemorrhagic Stroke Among Bangladeshi Population: The MAGPIE Study.}, journal = {Journal of multidisciplinary healthcare}, volume = {17}, number = {}, pages = {5941-5947}, pmid = {39698066}, issn = {1178-2390}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Anthropometric measurements used to predict cardiovascular disease vary worldwide but are mostly derived from those of Caucasian ancestry. We sought to undertake such measurements in the little studied Bangladeshi population.<br><br>METHODS: The MAGPIE (Multidimensional Approach of Genotype and Phenotype in Stroke Etiology) study is a Bangladeshi stroke case-control study that recruited nationwide between January 2022 and June 2024. The univariate analysis was utilised to curtail the risk of independent variables, and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was employed to identify the cut-off values of Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist Circumference (WC), and Hip Circumference (HC). Furthermore, a multivariate logistic regression (LR) model demonstrated the risk of independent predictors of haemorrhagic stroke (HS) among sexes.<br><br>RESULTS: Of a total of 1491 age- and sex-matched study population, 918 were haemorrhagic stroke (61.5%) with female predominance (n=489; 53.3%) and significantly older than men (P=0.003). The BMI (22.9 &#xb1;3.0 vs 21.3 &#xb1;3.0; P<0.001), WC (84.0 &#xb1;7.3 vs 80.8 &#xb1;7.3; P<0.001) and HC (90.6 &#xb1;7.1 vs 85.5 &#xb1;7.7; P<0.001) was significantly higher among women compared to men. A ROC curve demonstrated that the cut-off values of BMI, WC, and HC are 20.6kg/m[2], 78.8cm, and 84.6cm, respectively, in men and 21.1 kg/m[2], 81.5cm, and 88.1cm, respectively, in women haemorrhagic stroke population. Furthermore, an age-adjusted multivariate LR model identified a HC of &#x2265;84.6 cm in men (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.61-4.97; P <0.001) and a WC of &#x2265;81.5cm in women (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.01-2.37; P=0.001) as potential independent predictors of haemorrhagic stroke.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Bangladeshi men with a hip circumference of &#x2265;84.6cm have about threefold, and women with a waist circumference of &#x2265;81.1cm have about twofold heightened risk of haemorrhagic stroke.}, }
@article {pmid39696032, year = {2024}, author = {Mahjubi, K and Effatpanah, M and Parsaei, M and Mojtahedi, SY and Izadi, A and Tavakolizadeh, R}, title = {Association of anthropometric parameters with intelligence quotient in early school-aged children: a cross-sectional study in Iran.}, journal = {BMC pediatrics}, volume = {24}, number = {1}, pages = {809}, pmid = {39696032}, issn = {1471-2431}, mesh = {Humans ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Male ; Child ; Iran ; *Intelligence/physiology ; *Anthropometry ; Intelligence Tests ; Body Mass Index ; Waist Circumference ; Body Weight ; Linear Models ; Body Height ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: While the link between body growth indices in the first three years of life and neurodevelopment is well established, the relationship between these indicators and intelligence levels in later stages is not well understood. This study aimed to investigate the association between various anthropometric indices and Intelligence Quotient in early school-aged children.<br><br>METHODS: This cross-sectional study recruited healthy students aged 7 to 8&#xa0;years from four primary schools in Tehran, Iran. Measurements included body weight, height, body mass index, arm circumference, waist circumference, and hip circumference. Intelligence Quotient was assessed using the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices Test, with scores standardized by age according to the Raven's manual. Separate univariate linear regression analyses evaluated the association between each anthropometric index and children's Intelligence Quotient scores. Multivariate linear regression analyses were then performed to adjust for potential confounding factors, including the child's sex, age, and parental education levels.<br><br>RESULTS: A cohort of 160 children (80 females), with a mean age of 7.5&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;0.6&#xa0;years, was included in the study. The participants exhibited the following mean anthropometric values: weight 27.7&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;6.5&#xa0;kg, height 1.2&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;0.1&#xa0;m, body mass index 17.9&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;3.4&#xa0;kg/m[2], arm circumference 20.7&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;2.8&#xa0;cm, waist circumference 56.4&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;6.4&#xa0;cm, and hip circumference 68.1&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;6.6&#xa0;cm. Their mean Intelligence Quotient score was 106&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;16.6. In the univariate analysis, children's weight was not significantly associated with Intelligence Quotient score (P-value&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.153, &#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.288 [-0.108, 0.684]), while height was negatively associated (P-value&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.048, &#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;-31.685 [-63.142, -0.228]) and body mass index showed a positive association (P-value&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.001, &#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.265 [0.524, 2.006]). Abdominal circumference was not significantly associated with Intelligence Quotient (P-value&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.913, &#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.051 [-0.870, 0.972]), but both waist circumference (P-value&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.007, &#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.542 [0.147, 0.937]) and hip circumference (P-value&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.013, &#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.484 [0.102, 0.866]) demonstrated significant positive associations with Intelligence Quotient. However, none of the anthropometric indices maintained statistically significant associations with Intelligence Quotient after adjusting for potential confounders (P-values&#x2009;>&#x2009;0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study indicated no strong relationship between various body measurements and intelligence levels in school-aged children after adjusting the analyses for confounders. This suggests that intelligence in these children may be largely shaped by genetic and sociodemographic factors, with minimal influence from physical growth patterns.}, }
@article {pmid39691435, year = {2024}, author = {Zuo, T and Wang, J and Liu, J and Liu, J and Zhou, Q and Hou, J}, title = {Recognition of Predator Type and Risk Level in Azure-Winged Magpies (Cyanopica cyanus) Through Visual and Auditory Cues.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {14}, number = {12}, pages = {e70749}, pmid = {39691435}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Predation events are an important key factor determining the survival and reproduction of prey species. To cope, prey species have evolved various anti-predator strategies, including mechanisms for accurate predator identification and distinguishing predator types and risk levels. Birds rely on visual, auditory, and olfactory cues to perceive and categorize predators. However, previous studies have focused on single sensory modalities and have largely been conducted during breeding seasons. Thus, analyses of the accuracy and differences in predator recognition cues, especially during non-breeding periods, are needed. In this study, predator recognition in Azure-winged Magpies (Cyanopica cyanus) was evaluated during the non-breeding season. We examined responses to two predators, Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) and Domestic Cat (Felis catus), and two non-predators, Oriental Magpie (Pica serica) and Oriental Turtle Dove (Streptopelia orientalis). Using specimens and playback experiment, the ability of Azure-winged magpies to identify threats through both visual and auditory cues was evaluated. The results showed that Azure-winged Magpies can identify predator types through both visual and auditory cues, accurately distinguish threat levels, and adjust their foraging behavior accordingly. Notably, they exhibited the strongest anti-predator response to Domestic Cats (frequently encountered under natural conditions), as evidenced by longer observation times, shorter foraging duration, and quicker flight responses. The results indicate that Azure-winged Magpies can correctly identify predator types and threat levels through both visual and auditory cues and exhibit stronger anti-predator behaviors with increasing apparent threat levels.}, }
@article {pmid39685698, year = {2024}, author = {Trinczer, IL and Shalev, L}, title = {Computerised Attention Functions Training Versus Computerised Executive Functions Training for Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Randomised Controlled Trial.}, journal = {Journal of clinical medicine}, volume = {13}, number = {23}, pages = {}, pmid = {39685698}, issn = {2077-0383}, support = {//Tel Aviv University Argentinian's Friends/ ; //The Minducate Learning Innovation Research and Entrepreneurship Center/ ; }, abstract = {Background: Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by deficits in attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Current treatments, such as stimulant medication and behavioural therapy, ameliorate symptoms but do not address the core cognitive dysfunctions. This study aimed to investigate the effects of two computerised neurocognitive training programs, attention functions training and executive functions training, in children with ADHD. Methods: Eighty children with ADHD (ages 8-13) were randomly assigned to one of three groups: Attention functions training (AFT), targeting sustained, selective-spatial, orienting, and executive attention; executive functions training (EFT), focusing on working memory, cognitive flexibility, and problem solving; or a passive control group. Training sessions were administered in small groups twice a week for nine weeks. Participants underwent comprehensive assessments of attention (Continuous Performance Test, Conjunctive Visual Search Task), executive functions (Corsi Block-Tapping Tasks), nonverbal reasoning (Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices), parent-rated behavioural symptoms, and arithmetic performance at baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up. Results: The AFT group demonstrated significant improvements in sustained and selective-spatial attention, nonverbal reasoning, inattentive symptoms, and arithmetic performance, and most improvements persisted at follow-up. The EFT group showed gains in nonverbal reasoning and inattentive symptoms, although no improvements were documented in working memory or in parent ratings of executive functions. Conclusions: The AFT program that addressed core attentional functions in children with ADHD produced robust cognitive and behavioural benefits, whereas the EFT program yielded behavioural benefits and a limited improvement in executive functions. Future research should explore different training protocols for broader gains in executive functions. These findings support the potential of theory-driven, structured neurocognitive training targeting basic cognitive functions as an effective small-group intervention for ADHD.}, }
@article {pmid39678049, year = {2024}, author = {Bildiren, A and Fırat, T and Kavruk, SZ}, title = {The Validity and Reliability Study of TONI-3 Test for 4-17 Aged Children.}, journal = {Noro psikiyatri arsivi}, volume = {61}, number = {4}, pages = {358-362}, pmid = {39678049}, issn = {1300-0667}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Since there are not enough scales to evaluate the cognitive performance of adolescents in Türkiye, the aim of this study is to conduct a reliability and validity study of the Test of Nonverbal Intelligence-3 (TONI-3) for individuals aged between 14 and 17.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 566 children between the ages of 14-17 were included in the study. A form of TONI-3 test was administered to all participants. Test-retest and parallel form application were made for reliability analyses, and Raven Standard Progressive Matrices Test (RSPM) and Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test (NNAT-I) tests were applied for validity analyses.<br><br>RESULTS: It has been found that the TONI-3 Test has a high reliability with an average reliability coefficient of 0.92. It was determined that there was a high, positive and significant relationship between Form A and Form B of the TONI-3 Test (r=0.76, p<0.01). The correlation coefficient between the scores was found to be 0.83 between the first application of the TONI-3 test and the test repeated after 4 weeks. A high, positive and significant correlation was found between TONI-3 Test, RSPM Test and NNAT-I (r=0.69, p<0.01; r=0.81, p<0.01).<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study revealed evidence of the reliability and validity of the TONI-3 test between the ages of 14-17. This is the first study of the TONI-3 test in this age group. It is thought that clinicians can practically evaluate cognitive abilities in children who are clinically referred to or determined to have behavior disorders at school through this test.}, }
@article {pmid39673229, year = {2025}, author = {Mercurio, DG and Flament, F and Muller, B and Bernerd, F and Josso, M and Jager-Lezer, N and Delaunay, C and Passeron, T}, title = {Gain of Protection Afforded by the Methoxypropylamino Cyclohexenylidene Ethoxyethylcyanoacetate (MCE) UVA1 Filter on Pigmentary and Aging Signs: An Outdoor 4-Week Randomized, Intra-Individual Comparative Study in 52 Brazilian Women.}, journal = {Photodermatology, photoimmunology &amp; photomedicine}, volume = {41}, number = {1}, pages = {e13020}, doi = {10.1111/phpp.13020}, pmid = {39673229}, issn = {1600-0781}, support = {//L'Or&#xe9;al Research &amp; Innovation Department/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Sunscreening Agents/chemistry ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; Adult ; Brazil ; Middle Aged ; *Skin Pigmentation/drug effects/radiation effects ; Ultraviolet Rays/adverse effects ; Prospective Studies ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Conventional sunscreens shield the skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays up to 370 nm leaving wavelengths between 370 and 400 nm unfiltered despite their potentially harmful biological and clinical effects.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The beneficial effects of methoxypropylamino cyclohexenylidene ethoxyethylcyanoacetate (MCE) UVA1 filter were explored at 1% in a SPF50 sunscreen under outdoors summer conditions against pigmentation and aging signs compared against a reference SPF50 without the MCE filter.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective randomized comparative intra-individual study was conducted in 52 Brazilian women (phototype I-III). A hemiface application was performed for the SPF50 sunscreen with 1% MCE and SPF50 reference without MCE before 1-h outdoor sunlight exposure, twice daily for 4&#x2009;weeks. Study endpoint included expert panel grading of pigmentation (3), vascular (1) signs as well as facial skin ageing and assessment of facial skin radiance and skin homogeneity by a na&#xef;ve panel.<br><br>RESULTS: Significant differences were reported for all facial signs comparing areas protected with SPF50/MCE and SPF50, respectively: upper lip wrinkles, crow's feet wrinkles, upper lip texture, upper lip pigmentation, vascular abnormalities (all p < 0.0001), texture of the mouth contour (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.001), ptosis of lower face (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.003), lateral facial pigmentation (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.005), and whole face pigmentation (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.01). The evaluations performed by na&#xef;ve panel showed a significant superiority of the SPF50/MCE product for skin homogeneity (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.043).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Overall, this study demonstrates a significant gain of protection with the SPF50 containing 1% MCE in reducing hyperpigmentation, redness and aging signs compared to the same SPF50 sunscreen without MCE, thus supporting the need for an enlarged UVA1 photoprotection.}, }
@article {pmid39666895, year = {2025}, author = {Marsja, E and Holmer, E and Stenbäck, V and Micula, A and Tirado, C and Danielsson, H and Rönnberg, J}, title = {Fluid Intelligence Partially Mediates the Effect of Working Memory on Speech Recognition in Noise.}, journal = {Journal of speech, language, and hearing research : JSLHR}, volume = {68}, number = {1}, pages = {399-410}, doi = {10.1044/2024_JSLHR-24-00465}, pmid = {39666895}, issn = {1558-9102}, mesh = {Humans ; *Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; *Intelligence/physiology ; Male ; *Noise ; Female ; *Speech Perception/physiology ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; Longitudinal Studies ; Hearing Aids ; Adult ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: Although the existing literature has explored the link between cognitive functioning and speech recognition in noise, the specific role of fluid intelligence still needs to be studied. Given the established association between working memory capacity (WMC) and fluid intelligence and the predictive power of WMC for speech recognition in noise, we aimed to elucidate the mediating role of fluid intelligence.<br><br>METHOD: We used data from the n200 study, a longitudinal investigation into aging, hearing ability, and cognitive functioning. We analyzed two age-matched samples: participants with hearing aids and a group with normal hearing. WMC was assessed using the Reading Span task, and fluid intelligence was measured with Raven's Progressive Matrices. Speech recognition in noise was evaluated using Hagerman sentences presented to target 80% speech-reception thresholds in four-talker babble. Data were analyzed using mediation analysis to examine fluid intelligence as a mediator between WMC and speech recognition in noise.<br><br>RESULTS: We found a partial mediating effect of fluid intelligence on the relationship between WMC and speech recognition in noise, and that hearing status did not moderate this effect. In other words, WMC and fluid intelligence were related, and fluid intelligence partially explained the influence of WMC on speech recognition in noise.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study shows the importance of fluid intelligence in speech recognition in noise, regardless of hearing status. Future research should use other advanced statistical techniques and explore various speech recognition tests and background maskers to deepen our understanding of the interplay between WMC and fluid intelligence in speech recognition.}, }
@article {pmid39664634, year = {2024}, author = {Aslanova, M and Gavrilova, M and Iurina, E}, title = {Does sibling family structure matter in the emotion understanding development in preschoolers?.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {15}, number = {}, pages = {1428087}, pmid = {39664634}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {The objective of the study was to investigate the impact of sibling family structure -including the number of children, age gaps, presence of a twin, sibling position, and gender composition - on emotion understanding and its development in children aged 5-6 years. A total of 409 preschoolers participated. Emotion understanding was assessed using The Test of Emotion Comprehension at the baseline and then again at a 1-year follow-up. In addition to the primary variables, executive functions (comprising visual and verbal working memory and cognitive flexibility) and non-verbal intelligence were controlled for in the analysis. We used the Dimensional Change Card Sort task to assess cognitive flexibility, the Sentence Repetition and Memory for Designs subtests of NEPSY-II to measure verbal and visual working memory, respectively, and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices to assess non-verbal intelligence. Sibling data were obtained from the parent surveys, while psychological assessments were administered to children by psychologists. While sibling family structure influences emotion understanding, it does not significantly affect its development over a year. A more advanced reflective emotional understanding is associated with higher cognitive flexibility and having a younger sibling, compared to other sibling positions. The results of this study offer additional knowledge for parents, educators, family therapists, and child psychologists seeking a deeper understanding of emotional development in children. These professionals can design interventions and programs that leverage sibling and peer relationships to foster emotional development, encourage collaboration through age-diverse activities, and promote caregiving roles to enhance family and group dynamics.}, }
@article {pmid39653419, year = {2024}, author = {Orozco-Arias, S and Sierra, P and Durbin, R and González, J}, title = {MCHelper automatically curates transposable element libraries across eukaryotic species.}, journal = {Genome research}, volume = {34}, number = {12}, pages = {2256-2268}, pmid = {39653419}, issn = {1549-5469}, support = {/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {*DNA Transposable Elements ; Animals ; Humans ; *Molecular Sequence Annotation ; Software ; Gene Library ; Zebrafish/genetics ; Data Curation ; Eukaryota/genetics ; Genomics/methods ; Oryza/genetics ; Zea mays/genetics ; }, abstract = {The number of species with high-quality genome sequences continues to increase, in part due to the scaling up of multiple large-scale biodiversity sequencing projects. While the need to annotate genic sequences in these genomes is widely acknowledged, the parallel need to annotate transposable element (TE) sequences that have been shown to alter genome architecture, rewire gene regulatory networks, and contribute to the evolution of host traits is becoming ever more evident. However, accurate genome-wide annotation of TE sequences is still technically challenging. Several de novo TE identification tools are now available, but manual curation of the libraries produced by these tools is needed to generate high-quality genome annotations. Manual curation is time-consuming, and thus impractical for large-scale genomic studies, and lacks reproducibility. In this work, we present the Manual Curator Helper tool MCHelper, which automates the TE library curation process. By leveraging MCHelper's fully automated mode with the outputs from three de novo TE identification tools, RepeatModeler2, EDTA, and REPET, in the fruit fly, rice, hooded crow, zebrafish, maize, and human, we show a substantial improvement in the quality of the TE libraries and genome annotations. MCHelper libraries are less redundant, with up to 65% reduction in the number of consensus sequences, have up to 11.4% fewer false positive sequences, and up to ∼48% fewer "unclassified/unknown" TE consensus sequences. Genome-wide TE annotations are also improved, including larger unfragmented insertions. Moreover, MCHelper is an easy-to-install and easy-to-use tool.}, }
@article {pmid39649523, year = {2024}, author = {Jenkins, R and Bianchi, J and Watson, J and Shinners, J and Jaisinghani, P and Spain, B and Ruotolo, C}, title = {Risk and Prognosis of Hamstring Injuries in the National Football League: A 12-Year Review.}, journal = {Orthopaedic journal of sports medicine}, volume = {12}, number = {12}, pages = {23259671241298622}, pmid = {39649523}, issn = {2325-9671}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hamstring injuries can have a significant burden on a professional football player's career and performance. One in 4 players will suffer a lower extremity strain in their career, with the hamstring being the most common. These injuries are often fraught with extended periods of recovery and reinjury rates varying between 16% and 38%.<br><br>PURPOSE: To determine the progression and duration of hamstring injury as well as risk factors and probability of reinjury in the National Football League (NFL).<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive epidemiology study.<br><br>METHODS: Data were extracted from the official publicly accessible NFL database of injuries. NFL players suffering a hamstring injury during the study period of 2008-2020 were identified. Injuries were reported weekly as mandated by the NFL. Players were deemed cleared from injury when no longer listed in the injury report (IR). Reinjury was defined as any subsequent hamstring injury after a player's initial injury. The duration of injury and factors associated with injury were analyzed. Secondary objectives included team-specific injury rates and timing of injury.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 2101 hamstring injuries occurred among 1354 players. The mean duration of the IR was 2.4 &#xb1; 2.1 weeks. A total of 442 (33%) players suffered subsequent reinjury, 27% of which occurred during the same season. The mean duration on the IR for reinjury was 2.4 &#xb1; 1.8 weeks, with no significant difference in duration compared with initial injury (2.4 &#xb1; 1.8 vs 2.2 &#xb1; 1.7; P = .138). Defensive skill players were most frequently injured (50.4%) followed by offensive skill players (37.7%). Of the 4812 total IR listings, 1806 (38%) did not participate in practice. A total of 1590 (33.5%) had limited participation in practice, and 1353 (28.5%) had full participation in practice. Injury rates among teams varied and ranged from 0.6% (Baltimore Ravens) to 5.7% (Houston Texans), with a median of 3.1% (P < .0001).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Hamstring injuries can have a lasting impact on a player's career with more than a third of players suffering subsequent reinjury. Although suffering a hamstring injury predisposes a player to reinjury, previous injury was not associated with longer recovery times. Rates of injury among organizational teams vary; thus, further research to understand the difference in preventive measures and treatment protocols may be warranted.}, }
@article {pmid39646984, year = {2024}, author = {Salinas-Velasco, HV and Valdez-Mondragón, A and Bueno-Villegas, J}, title = {A new species of the spider genus Mexentypesa Raven (Araneae: Nemesiidae) from Hidalgo, Mexico and taxonomic comments on M. chiapas Raven.}, journal = {Zootaxa}, volume = {5453}, number = {2}, pages = {233-244}, doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.5453.2.4}, pmid = {39646984}, issn = {1175-5334}, mesh = {Animals ; *Spiders/classification/anatomy &amp; histology ; Mexico ; Male ; Female ; *Animal Distribution ; Animal Structures/anatomy &amp; histology/growth &amp; development ; Body Size ; Organ Size ; Ecosystem ; }, abstract = {A new species of the enigmatic spider genus Mexentypesa (Raven, 1987) from a cloud forest in Hidalgo state, Mexico is described: M. hidalguensis sp. nov. The description of the species is based on both male and female adult specimens. This discovery increases the diversity of the genus to two species: Mexentypesa chiapas (Raven, 1987) and the new species described herein. Additionally, Aptostichus sabinae syn. nov. (=M. chiapas), which was previously described as a different species, is formally synonymized.}, }
@article {pmid39645881, year = {2024}, author = {Scherz, MD and Rudolph, J and Rakotondratsima, M and Ratsoavina, FM and Crottini, A and Andreone, F and Glaw, F and Vences, M}, title = {Molecular systematics of the subgenus Gephyromantis (Phylacomantis) with description of a new subspecies.}, journal = {Zootaxa}, volume = {5446}, number = {2}, pages = {205-220}, doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.5446.2.3}, pmid = {39645881}, issn = {1175-5334}, mesh = {Animals ; Madagascar ; *Phylogeny ; *Animal Distribution ; Female ; *Anura/anatomy &amp; histology/genetics/classification ; Male ; Animal Structures/anatomy &amp; histology/growth &amp; development ; Body Size ; Organ Size ; Genetic Variation ; }, abstract = {The mantellid subgenus Phylacomantis (genus Gephyromantis) currently contains four species of frogs distributed in the South (G. corvus, G. kintana), West (G. atsingy), North East, North, and Sambirano regions (G. pseudoasper) in Madagascar. We assess the molecular systematics of these amphibians based on extended sampling and analysis of multiple nuclear-encoded and mitochondrial genes. We confirm the delimitation of the four known species, which form monophyletic groups in a mitochondrial tree and separate phylogroups without haplotype sharing in haplotype networks of four nuclear markers. Newly included samples of G. pseudoasper from the North and North East regions confirm a comparatively low genetic variation of this species across its range, with pairwise genetic distance in the 16S gene not exceeding 1.4%. On the contrary, newly collected specimens from three sites in the North East and North West of the island strongly differed from all other Phylacomantis, with genetic distances exceeding 4.8% for the16S gene. Mitochondrial and nuclear markers strongly suggest them to be sister to G. corvus from the South. Due to haplotype sharing in two nuclear genes, absence of detectable morphological differences, and lack of data on bioacoustic differentiation, we describe these populations as a new subspecies, G. corvus bakilana ssp. nov., emphasizing that this taxon may be elevated to species status in the future pending new data. This biogeographic pattern, with apparently disjunct sister lineages in the South vs. North West of Madagascar, is rare among Malagasy anurans and calls for increased exploration of the remaining humid forest fragments in the North West and West of the island.}, }
@article {pmid39644715, year = {2024}, author = {Hirao, AJ and Aoyama, M and Sugita, S}, title = {During the breeding season, lymphocytes assemble into ellipse-shaped clusters in the uropygial gland of the jungle crow Corvus macrorhynchos.}, journal = {Morphologie : bulletin de l'Association des anatomistes}, volume = {109}, number = {364}, pages = {100924}, doi = {10.1016/j.morpho.2024.100924}, pmid = {39644715}, issn = {1286-0115}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Recent studies indicate that the uropygial gland produces intraspecific chemosensory cues. The jungle crow Corvus macrorhynchos, which is a type of passerine, exhibits extreme morphological variation in the gonadal gland during the breeding season. Because the uropygial gland of the jungle crow sometimes exhibits morphological changes during the breeding season, we attempted to clarify the morphological changes in the uropygial gland of the jungle crow according to development and season.<br><br>METHODS: Captured birds were divided into three age groups according to the color of their upper palate: <1 year, 1-2 years, and >2 years old. Paraffin sections of the uropygial gland were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, Elastica van Gieson, Giemsa, and a proliferating cell nuclear antigen antibody.<br><br>RESULTS: Sexual dimorphism was not seen in the morphology of the uropygial gland in the jungle crow. However, changes due to growth and season were identified. During the breeding season in birds>2 years old, lymphocytes formed ellipse-shaped clusters around the glandular cavity. These clusters were invaded by collagen fibers from spherical cells.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Collagen fibers, which develop from spherical cells, seem to be related to lymphoid cluster migration. Ellipse-shaped lymphoid clusters may play a crucial role in reproductive behavior during the breeding season.}, }
@article {pmid39638926, year = {2024}, author = {Lois-Milevicich, J and Rat-Fischer, L and de la Colina, MA and Gómez, RO and Reboreda, JC and Kacelnik, A}, title = {Mechanical problem solving by plush-crested jays: are tools special after all?.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {27}, number = {1}, pages = {82}, pmid = {39638926}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {UBACyT 20020170100521BA//Universidad de Buenos Aires/ ; PICT 2015-1628//Agencia Nacional de Promoci&#xf3;n Cient&#xed;fica y Tecnol&#xf3;gica/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Problem Solving ; Male ; Tool Use Behavior ; Female ; Passeriformes/physiology ; }, abstract = {Tool use is taxonomically associated with high behavioural flexibility and innovativeness, and its prevalence is greater in primates and some bird species. This association, however, is not known to be causally determinant of tool-related competence since flexibility and innovativeness are often observed in the absence of tool use and vice versa. For this reason, it is interesting to explore whether animals that can be loosely categorized as outstanding, or 'intelligent' physical problem solvers, are also remarkable using tools innovatively, rather than tool use presenting special constraints. We investigate this problem using plush-crested jays (Cyanocorax chrysops), a corvid new to cognitive research that shows highly flexible and inquisitive behaviour in the wild and has not been reported to use tools. We tested jays in two tasks of apparent similar manipulative complexity and incentive, one involving a tool (T) and the other not (NT). In the NT task birds had to open a box with a transparent lid blocked by a latch to get a reward, whereas in the T task, they had to use a rake to pull out the reward from the box. Eight out of nine subjects succeeded in the NT task, whereas none of them learned to solve the T task. This is consistent with tool use involving dedicated competencies, rather than just high problem-solving proficiency.}, }
@article {pmid39636993, year = {2024}, author = {Kaiser, J}, title = {Trump picks an 'outsider' and NIH critic to lead agency.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {386}, number = {6726}, pages = {1080-1081}, doi = {10.1126/science.adv0705}, pmid = {39636993}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Humans ; Biomedical Research/economics/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; *COVID-19/prevention &amp; control/epidemiology ; Financing, Government ; *National Institutes of Health (U.S.)/economics ; Research Support as Topic/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; United States ; Policy ; Politics ; }, abstract = {Jay Bhattacharya, who has analyzed NIH funding and ripped U.S. COVID-19 policies, could overhaul key funder.}, }
@article {pmid39633841, year = {2024}, author = {Ranjan, R and Adhikary, D and Barman, S and Islam, MS and Ken-Dror, G and Yusuf, MA and Moureen, A and Hakim, M and Sharma, P}, title = {Multidimensional Approach of Genotype and Phenotype in Stroke Etiology: The MAGPIE Study.}, journal = {Health science reports}, volume = {7}, number = {12}, pages = {e70227}, pmid = {39633841}, issn = {2398-8835}, abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Stroke is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in Bangladesh. It is estimated that genetic determinants account for around 40%-60% of its etiology, similar to environmental factors. This study aimed to provide a better understanding of the genetic, environmental, and clinical risk factors in stroke patients from Bangladesh.<br><br>METHODS: The MAGPIE (Multidimensional Approach of Genotype and Phenotype In Stroke Etiology) study is a population-based case-control study that will allow a hypothesis-free genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify genetic risk factors associated with adult stroke (age&#x2009;&#x2265;&#x2009;18 years) in Bangladesh. This study will collect detailed phenotypic data as well as blood samples from stroke patients and control subjects. High-molecular-weight genomic DNA will be isolated and archived using Qiagen DNA isolation kits.<br><br>RESULTS: We will utilize SPSS v28.0, vR-4.3.2 and gPLINK v2.0 software to analyse the study variables, as appropriate. Further, appropriate statistical tests will be applied to test the significance level between study groups. As applicable, data will be presented in tables and graphs, such as Manhattan plots and Quantile-Quantile (QQ) plots. A p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05 will be considered as statistical significance.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This will be the first large-scale carefully phenotyped biobank of Bangladeshi stroke patients which will enable a GWAS enabling an understanding of the association between gene-phenotype risk factors which has the potential to revise and refine national stroke guidelines.}, }
@article {pmid39633193, year = {2024}, author = {Shin, WD and Phan, HV and Daley, MA and Ijspeert, AJ and Floreano, D}, title = {Fast ground-to-air transition with avian-inspired multifunctional legs.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {636}, number = {8041}, pages = {86-91}, pmid = {39633193}, issn = {1476-4687}, mesh = {Animals ; Air ; *Biomechanical Phenomena ; *Birds/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; *Extremities/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Flight, Animal/physiology ; Gait/physiology ; *Locomotion/physiology ; *Robotics/instrumentation/methods ; Wings, Animal/physiology ; Walking/physiology ; *Aircraft/instrumentation ; *Biomimetics/instrumentation/methods ; *Motion ; }, abstract = {Most birds can navigate seamlessly between aerial and terrestrial environments. Whereas the forelimbs evolved into wings primarily for flight, the hindlimbs serve diverse functions such as walking, hopping and leaping, and jumping take-off for transitions into flight[1]. These capabilities have inspired engineers to aim for similar multimodality in aerial robots, expanding their range of applications across diverse environments. However, challenges remain in reproducing multimodal locomotion, across gaits with distinct kinematics and propulsive characteristics, such as walking and jumping, while preserving lightweight mass for flight. This trade-off between mechanical complexity and versatility[2] limits most existing aerial robots to only one additional locomotor mode[3-5]. Here we overcome the complexity-versatility trade-off with RAVEN (Robotic Avian-inspired Vehicle for multiple ENvironments), which uses its bird-inspired multifunctional legs to jump rapidly into flight, walk on the ground, and hop over obstacles and gaps similar to the multimodal locomotion of birds. We show that jumping for take-off contributes substantially to the initial flight take-off speed[6-9] and, remarkably, that it is more energy efficient than taking off without the jump. Our analysis suggests an important trade-off in mass distribution between legs and body among birds adapted for different locomotor strategies, with greater investment in leg mass among terrestrial birds with multimodal gait demands. Multifunctional robot legs expand the opportunities to deploy traditional fixed-wing aircraft in complex terrains through autonomous take-offs and multimodal gaits.}, }
@article {pmid39623611, year = {2024}, author = {Koh, YG and Lee, WG and Park, KY}, title = {Efficacy and Safety of Needle-Free Microjet Injection Versus Needle Injection of Botulinum Toxin for the Treatment of Crow's Feet: A Randomized Split-Face Pilot Study.}, journal = {Annals of dermatology}, volume = {36}, number = {6}, pages = {355-360}, pmid = {39623611}, issn = {2005-3894}, support = {//JSK Biomed Inc./Korea ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin is commonly used for cosmetic enhancements in various applications. However, the pain experienced during the injection process remains a significant concern.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a needle-free microjet drug injector, powered by an Er:YAG laser, for the injection of botulinum toxin to treat crow's feet wrinkles.<br><br>METHODS: Botulinum toxin injections were randomly administered using a microjet injector on one side and a conventional needle injection on the other. The results were evaluated by two dermatologists, who were blinded to the treatment method. They used a 5-point scale to assess the severity of both static and dynamic crow's feet before and after the treatment. The participants' pain levels during the procedure were measured using a visual analog scale, and the physician/subject global aesthetic improvement scale (GAIS) was used to assess overall aesthetic improvement.<br><br>RESULTS: Ten Korean women (mean age, 50.7) participated in the study. Both sides exhibited significant improvement in crow's feet wrinkles compared to the baseline, with no noticeable differences between the two sides. The microjet injector side showed a significantly lower mean pain score, while there was no difference between the sides in terms of P/SGAIS scores. The evaluation of the wrinkle scale demonstrated high reliability.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The needle-free microjet drug injector, which utilizes an Er:YAG laser, may be a useful option for treating crow's feet wrinkles with botulinum toxin due to its ability to reduce pain.}, }
@article {pmid39623228, year = {2024}, author = {Zhang, W and Wen, Y and Zhong, Y and Chen, Q}, title = {Meta-Analysis of Adverse Reactions of Botulinum Toxin A in Facial Rejuvenation Treatment.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {39623228}, issn = {1432-5241}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Facial rejuvenation is a popular non-surgical treatment, and its treatment safety is of key significance to patients. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to compare the effects of botulinum toxin A and placebo on the occurrence of adverse reactions in facial rejuvenation treatment.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: According to PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted in Chinese and English databases, and 20 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. The main result is to evaluate the level of adverse events (AEs), and the secondary result is to evaluate the level of AEs in crow's feet (CFL), glabellar lines (GL), and forehead lines (FHL).<br><br>METHODS: The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial of botulinum toxin A for facial rejuvenation published up to August 2023 was searched by computer, and the completed data were retrieved manually. Two researchers screened out the included studies and evaluated the quality of the literature, and analyzed the included studies with Revman 5.3 software.<br><br>RESULTS: The 20 RCTs literatures included 7275 cases in the experimental group and 2552 cases in the control group. The AEs level in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the placebo group (RR=1.22; 95%CI 1.13-1.32; p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.00001), and the level of heterogeneity is low (P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.11, I2&#x2009;=&#x2009;29%). The AE level of patients in CFL test group was significantly higher than that in control group (RR&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.13; 95%CI 1.02-1.04; P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.01), and the level of heterogeneity is low (P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.14, I2&#x2009;=&#x2009;38%). The level of AE in GL experimental group was significantly higher than that in control group (RR&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.42; 95%CI 1.21-1.67; p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.0001), and the level of heterogeneity is low (P&#x2009;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.60, I2&#x2009;=&#x2009;0%). The AE level of patients in FHL experimental group was significantly higher than that in control group (RR&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.53; 95%CI 1.12-2.10; p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.008), and the level of heterogeneity is low (P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.99, I2&#x2009;=&#x2009;0%).<br><br>CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis confirmed the safety of BTX-A in the treatment of facial rejuvenation (CFL, GL, FHL). Although the incidence of adverse reactions was low, there was still a significant difference compared with the placebo control group.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE II: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors &#xa0; www.springer.com/00266 .}, }
@article {pmid39622556, year = {2024}, author = {Tanne, JH}, title = {Trump nominates Jay Bhattacharya to head US National Institutes of Health.}, journal = {BMJ (Clinical research ed.)}, volume = {387}, number = {}, pages = {q2695}, doi = {10.1136/bmj.q2695}, pmid = {39622556}, issn = {1756-1833}, }
@article {pmid39620002, year = {2024}, author = {Hao, Y and Wang, Z and Qu, L}, title = {Investigating the Skin Health Benefits of Rosa roxburghii, Punica granatum and Rose: A Randomized Single-Blind Controlled Clinical Trial.}, journal = {Food science &amp; nutrition}, volume = {12}, number = {11}, pages = {9846-9855}, pmid = {39620002}, issn = {2048-7177}, abstract = {Recent studies underscore the beneficial impacts of oral natural plant extracts on human skin health, though clinical evidence of their efficacy and safety is limited. This study evaluates the skin health effects of a novel oral supplement containing Rosa roxburghii, Punica granatum, and rose extracts (RPR) 0.70 healthy female participants were randomly assigned to either a control group or an RPR group, with the latter ingesting 20 mL of the RPR supplement daily on an empty stomach over 8 weeks. After 8 weeks, the RPR group exhibited significant enhancements (p < 0.001) in skin hydration, glossiness, elasticity, and skin tone, with increases of 69.02%, 30.48%, 25.97%, and 7.52%, respectively. Concurrently, decreases in skin firmness and melanin levels were observed at 21.17% (p = 0.007) and 25.06% (p < 0.001), respectively. Statistical analysis confirmed that these changes were significantly greater than those in the control group. Image analysis indicated no significant changes in mean optical density of hyperpigmented spots within the RPR group (p = 0.367), but a significant reduction in the areas of hyperpigmented spots, under-eye fine lines, and crow's feet by 41.50%, 37.55%, and 29.36%, respectively (p < 0.001), whereas no significant changes were detected in the control group. Importantly, no adverse effects were observed. These findings suggest that the combined intake of Rosa roxburghii, Punica granatum, and rose extracts can improve skin health, offering a promising natural alternative for dermatological care.}, }
@article {pmid39614750, year = {2024}, author = {George, DN and Dwyer, DM and Haselgrove, M and Le Pelley, ME}, title = {Apparent statistical inference in crows may reflect simple reinforcement learning.}, journal = {Quarterly journal of experimental psychology (2006)}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {17470218241305622}, doi = {10.1177/17470218241305622}, pmid = {39614750}, issn = {1747-0226}, abstract = {Johnston et al. report results which they argue demonstrate that crows engage in statistical inference during decision-making. They trained two crows to associate a set of stimuli with different reward probabilities (from 10% to 90%) before choice tests between pairs of stimuli. Across most pairwise combinations, and in a control task in which the number of rewards was equated between probabilities, both crows preferred the stimulus associated with higher reward probability. The magnitude of this preference was affected by the absolute difference between the two probabilities, although (contrary to a claim made by Johnston et al. 2023) preference did not reflect the ratio of prior probabilities independently of absolute differences. Johnston et al. argue that preference for the stimulus with the higher reward probability is "the signature of true statistical inference" (p. 3238), implemented by an analogue magnitude system that represents the reward probability associated with each stimulus. Here, we show that a simple reinforcement learning model, with no explicit representation of reward probabilities, reproduces the critical features of crows' performance-and indeed better accounts for the observed empirical findings than the concept of statistical inference based on analogue magnitude representations, because it correctly predicts the absence of a ratio effect that would reflect magnitudes when absolute distance is controlled. Contrary to Johnston et al.'s claims, these patterns of behaviour do not necessitate retrieval of calculated reward probabilities from long-term memory and dynamic application of this information across contexts, or (more specifically) require the involvement of an analogue magnitude system in representing abstract probabilities.}, }
@article {pmid39593442, year = {2024}, author = {Roodbarani, M and Tagharrobi, Z and Sharifi, K and Sooki, Z and Zare, M}, title = {Influence of Brain Gym on children's behavioral problems with autism spectrum disorder: A randomized controlled clinical trial.}, journal = {Journal of bodywork and movement therapies}, volume = {40}, number = {}, pages = {1248-1254}, doi = {10.1016/j.jbmt.2024.07.048}, pmid = {39593442}, issn = {1532-9283}, mesh = {Humans ; *Autism Spectrum Disorder ; Male ; Female ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Iran ; Exercise Therapy/methods ; Stereotyped Behavior/physiology ; Communication ; Social Interaction ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) present with a variety of behavioral problems. The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of Brain Gym (BG) on the behavioral problems of children with ASD in Iran.<br><br>METHODS: This clinical trial was conducted on 36 children with ASD at Kashan and Arak in 2019. Samples were selected using the block randomization method and assigned to the intervention and control groups. The intervention group received ten sessions of BG according to Dennison's protocol. There was no intervention in the control group. The stereotyped behavior, communication, and social interactions of the behavioral problems were assessed at the beginning (T0), the end of the intervention (T1), and two months later (T2). The data were collected using the Demographics, Rutter, GARS-2, and Raven scales. Data from 33 children were analyzed via per-protocol and intention-to-treat analysis using repeated measures analysis of variance.<br><br>RESULTS: The two groups did not differ significantly in demographic variables. The results showed a significant interaction effect of time and intervention on the severity of behavioral problems (p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.0001). There was a significant difference in the severity of behavioral disorders between the two groups at T1 and T2 (p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05). A within-group analysis revealed a significant difference in the severity of the behavioral disorder at the three time points between the BG and control groups (p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.0001).<br><br>CONCLUSION: BG can alleviate the behavioral problems of children with ASD. This intervention is recommended as a complementary treatment for affected families with children with ASD.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: IRCT20100211003329N5.<br><br>DATE OF REGISTRATION: 2020-07-16.}, }
@article {pmid39590643, year = {2024}, author = {Ma, S and Jia, N}, title = {Measuring Raven's Progressive Matrices Combining Eye-Tracking Technology and Machine Learning (ML) Models.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {12}, number = {11}, pages = {}, pmid = {39590643}, issn = {2079-3200}, support = {22FJKB019//The Post-Funded Projects of The National Social Science Fund/ ; }, abstract = {Extended testing time in Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM) can lead to increased fatigue and reduced motivation, which may impair cognitive task performance. This study explores the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in RPM by combining eye-tracking technology with machine learning (ML) models, aiming to explore new methods for improving the efficiency of RPM testing and to identify the key metrics involved. Using eye-tracking metrics as features, ten ML models were trained, with the XGBoost model demonstrating superior performance. Notably, we further refined the period of interest and reduced the number of metrics, achieving strong performance, with accuracy, precision, and recall all above 0.8, using only 60% of the response time and nine eye-tracking metrics. This study also examines the role of several key metrics in RPM and offers valuable insights for future research.}, }
@article {pmid39587617, year = {2024}, author = {Landman, F and Jamin, C and de Haan, A and Witteveen, S and Bos, J and van der Heide, HGJ and Schouls, LM and Hendrickx, APA and , }, title = {Genomic surveillance of multidrug-resistant organisms based on long-read sequencing.}, journal = {Genome medicine}, volume = {16}, number = {1}, pages = {137}, pmid = {39587617}, issn = {1756-994X}, mesh = {*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics ; Humans ; *Genome, Bacterial ; Genomics/methods ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods ; Bacteria/genetics/drug effects/classification ; Whole Genome Sequencing/methods ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO) pose a significant threat to public health worldwide. The ability to identify antimicrobial resistance determinants, to assess changes in molecular types, and to detect transmission are essential for surveillance and infection prevention of MDRO. Molecular characterization based on long-read sequencing has emerged as a promising alternative to short-read sequencing. The aim of this study was to characterize MDRO for surveillance and transmission studies based on long-read sequencing only.<br><br>METHODS: Genomic DNA of 356 MDRO was automatically extracted using the Maxwell-RSC48. The MDRO included 106 Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates, 85 Escherichia coli, 15 Enterobacter cloacae complex, 10 Citrobacter freundii, 34 Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 16 Acinetobacter baumannii, and 69 methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), of which 24 were from an outbreak. MDRO were sequenced using both short-read (Illumina NextSeq 550) and long-read (Nanopore Rapid Barcoding Kit-24-V14, R10.4.1) whole-genome sequencing (WGS). Basecalling was performed for two distinct models using Dorado-0.3.2 duplex mode. Long-read data was assembled using Flye, Canu, Miniasm, Unicycler, Necat, Raven, and Redbean assemblers. Long-read WGS data with&#x2009;>&#x2009;40&#x2009;&#xd7;&#x2009;coverage was used for multi-locus sequence typing (MLST), whole-genome MLST (wgMLST), whole-genome single-nucleotide polymorphisms (wgSNP), in silico multiple locus variable-number of tandem repeat analysis (iMLVA) for MRSA, and identification of resistance genes (ABRicate).<br><br>RESULTS: Comparison of wgMLST profiles based on long-read and short-read WGS data revealed&#x2009;>&#x2009;95% of wgMLST profiles within the species-specific cluster cut-off, except for P. aeruginosa. The wgMLST profiles obtained by long-read and short-read WGS differed only one to nine wgMLST alleles or SNPs for K. pneumoniae, E. coli, E. cloacae complex, C. freundii, A. baumannii complex, and MRSA. For P. aeruginosa, differences were up to 27 wgMLST alleles between long-read and short-read wgMLST and 0-10 SNPs. MLST sequence types and iMLVA types were concordant between long-read and short-read WGS data and conventional MLVA typing. Antimicrobial resistance genes were detected in long-read sequencing data with high sensitivity/specificity (92-100%/99-100%). Long-read sequencing enabled analysis of an MRSA outbreak.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrate that molecular characterization of automatically extracted DNA followed by long-read sequencing is as accurate compared to short-read sequencing and suitable for typing and outbreak analysis as part of genomic surveillance of MDRO. However, the analysis of P. aeruginosa requires further improvement which may be obtained by other basecalling algorithms. The low implementation costs and rapid library preparation for long-read sequencing of MDRO extends its applicability to resource-constrained settings and low-income countries worldwide.}, }
@article {pmid39585881, year = {2024}, author = {Landini, A and Segovia, M and Palma, M and Nayga, RM}, title = {Food for thought: The impact of short term fasting on cognitive ability.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {19}, number = {11}, pages = {e0312811}, pmid = {39585881}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Humans ; *Fasting/physiology ; *Cognition/physiology ; Male ; Female ; Adult ; Young Adult ; Decision Making ; Time Factors ; Adolescent ; }, abstract = {Growing evidence suggests that resource scarcity can severely impede individuals' cognitive capacity, resulting in sub-optimal decision making. Few experimental studies investigate whether food deprivation as a form of resource scarcity influences decisions in other non-hunger related domains. We examine the effect of short term fasting on cognitive capacity by exogenously manipulating individuals' fasting time in a laboratory experiment. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three treatments: 1) 3-hour fast; 2) 12-hour fast; and 3) control, in which participants were not required to fast and consumed a protein shake upon arriving to the lab. Following the manipulation, participants completed the Raven's Progressive Matrices test which measures cognitive function. Although we find null treatment effects on cognitive ability, our results provide evidence that short term fasting does not directly inhibit cognition.}, }
@article {pmid39579366, year = {2024}, author = {Fochesatto, CF and Brand, C and Cristi-Montero, C and da Costa, BGG and Dias, AF and Gaya, ACA and Gaya, AR}, title = {Getting up for brain health: Association of sedentary behavior breaks with cognition and mental health in children.}, journal = {Applied neuropsychology. Child}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-8}, doi = {10.1080/21622965.2024.2432342}, pmid = {39579366}, issn = {2162-2973}, abstract = {Children spend most of their waking hours sedentary and reducing this behavior has been challenging. Interrupting prolonged episodes of sedentary behavior with active breaks can provide mental and cognitive health benefits. Considering the multifactorial nature of these health aspects, this study aimed to verify the role of body mass index (BMI), cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), and moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in the relationship between the break in sedentary time with cognitive and mental health in children. This is a cross-sectional study with 129 children (62 boys), aged between 6 and 11 years (mean 8.73 ± 1.53) from a public school in southern Brazil. For the assessment of fluid intelligence, psychologists applied Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices test. Mental health was measured using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Sedentary breaks were measured using accelerometers, and CRF was determined using the 6-min walk test. Generalized linear regression analyses were used to verify associations of sedentary breaks with fluid intelligence and mental health, according to children's BMI, CRF, and MVPA. All models were adjusted for sex, age, somatic maturation, and total time of accelerometer use. Our results indicated that sedentary breaks were associated with fluid intelligence in overweight/obese (β = 0.108; p = 0.021) and physically inactive children (β = 0.083; p = 0.010). Regarding mental health, no association was identified with sedentary breaks. In conclusion, sedentary breaks should be encouraged for the benefits of fluid intelligence, especially in children who do not meet physical activity recommendations and are overweight.}, }
@article {pmid39571953, year = {2025}, author = {Morris, SA and Hazzi, NA and Hormiga, G}, title = {Molecular phylogenetics of nursery web spiders (Araneae: Pisauridae).}, journal = {Molecular phylogenetics and evolution}, volume = {203}, number = {}, pages = {108247}, doi = {10.1016/j.ympev.2024.108247}, pmid = {39571953}, issn = {1095-9513}, mesh = {*Spiders/genetics/classification/anatomy &amp; histology ; Animals ; *Phylogeny ; Likelihood Functions ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Pisauridae Simon, 1890, or nursery web spiders, are a large family with a worldwide distribution and very diverse life history strategies. Despite being named for their nursery webs, similar structures are built by some members of Ctenidae, Trechaleidae, and Oxyopidae. Pisauridae has no known morphological synapomorphies that circumscribe all members of the family, and delineation of subfamilies has been a longstanding issue. In addition, several recent molecular phylogenetic studies have called into question the monophyly of Pisauridae. Here, we infer a phylogeny of Pisauridae with nine genetic markers (12S, 16S, 18S, 28S, actin, COI, histone H3, ITS2, and NADH) combined with ultraconserved elements (UCEs) to test the monophyly of the group and determine intrafamilial relationships. Our study includes a total of 81 terminals (59 of them pisaurids). Our maximum likelihood and gene coalescence analyses strongly suggest that as currently circumscribed, the family Pisauridae is not monophyletic. To circumscribe Pisauridae as a monophyletic group, based on our molecular results, we propose the restoration of the family Dolomedidae Simon, 1876 (rank resurrected) to include the genera DolomedesLatreille, 1804 and BradystichusSimon, 1884. In addition, based on morphological evidence, we also place in Dolomedidae the genera MegadolomedesDavies &amp; Raven, 1980; Tasmomedes Raven, 2018; Mangromedes Raven, 2018; OrnodolomedesRaven &amp; Hebron, 2018; and CaledomedesRaven &amp; Hebron, 2018. We provide a phylogenetic delimitation of the three subfamilies of Pisauridae: Halinae, Thaumasiinae, and Pisaurinae. Ten pisaurid genera are deemed incertae sedis in terms of their placement. In light of our hypothesized molecular phylogeny, we discuss the morphological characters and putative synapomorphies of Pisauridae and propose diagnostic characters for its subfamilies and for the family Dolomedidae, along with taxonomic notes about genera not included in our study.}, }
@article {pmid39553199, year = {2024}, author = {Gutierrez, JC and Holladay, SD}, title = {Comparison of spatial and non-verbal reasoning abilities in veterinarians in the fields of radiology and surgery.}, journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {1438062}, pmid = {39553199}, issn = {2297-1769}, abstract = {Spatial ability tests measure capacity for mentally understanding and interpreting three-dimensional images. Such skills have been found to be predictive for anatomical learning success and proficiency in human and veterinary medical students. Veterinarians in the radiology and surgery field develop high levels of three-dimensional topographic anatomic understanding through exposure to anatomy portions of the veterinary curriculum, followed by highly specialized residency programs. Validated testing tools were used to compare spatial and general non-verbal reasoning abilities in veterinarians in the field of radiology (radiology group, RG) and veterinarians in the field of surgery (surgery group, SG). These tests were: Guay's Visualization of Views Test: Adapted Version (GVVT), the Mental Rotation Test (MRT), and Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices Test, short form (APMT). Results showed a significant difference for GVVT scores in favor of the RG (15.2 ± 0.3 and 12.3 ± 0.4, respectively, p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in scores for MRT and APMT between the RG and SG. There was a significant positive correlation between spatial ability tests scores and general non-verbal reasoning test scores for the RG but not for the SG. Future studies are planned to determine if the RG innately possess high spatial and reasoning skills, and to expand the present findings to other veterinary specialty areas.}, }
@article {pmid39552205, year = {2024}, author = {Deliencourt-Godefroy, G and Legoedec, J and Bourdens, M and Juin, N and Nguyen, LT and Branchet, MC and Boisnic, S and Keophiphath, M}, title = {TFC-1326 Compound Reduces Clinical Signs of Skin Aging. Evidence From In Vitro Human Adipose and Skin Models and Pilot Clinical Trial.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {e16679}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.16679}, pmid = {39552205}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//TFChem (Sirona Biochem Corp)/ ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Anti-freeze Glycoproteins (AFGPs) were described to preserve biological materials and protect them from different stresses.<br><br>AIMS: The effects of a synthetic anti-freeze glycoprotein-based compound, TFC-1326, on human skin quality and its biological actions were studied.<br><br>METHODS: The effects of various concentrations of TFC-1326 on the biology of human preadipocytes, differentiated in the proinflammatory microenvironment, and on human fibroblasts grown in coculture with human mature adipocytes or monocultured in stress conditions were investigated in, in&#xa0;vitro studies. Additionally, the efficacy of a 1% TFC-1326 topical cream was evaluated in a clinical investigation on the skin biology and appearance of 20 women aged between 40 and 65&#x2009;years throughout 84&#x2009;days of application.<br><br>RESULTS: The in&#xa0;vitro studies revealed that TFC-1326 mitigated the deleterious effects of a proinflammatory cytokine cocktail produced by human macrophages, by restoring preadipocyte adipogenic capacity and by reducing their fibroinflammatory state. TFC-1326 also stimulated the proliferative capacity of dermal fibroblasts co-cultured with mature adipocytes as well as their production of hyaluronic acid and procollagen type I, while decreasing IL6 secretion and increasing fibroblast viability. Furthermore, daily 1% TFC-1326 topical cream application, measurably improved skin radiance and laxity, as well as skin density. Finally, significant reductions of the volume and depth of the crow's feet wrinkles were also observed.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The compound TFC-1326 significantly improved the physiological appearance and cellular functions of aging skin.}, }
@article {pmid39551240, year = {2024}, author = {Tubío-Fungueiriño, M and Cernadas, E and Fernández-Delgado, M and Arrojo, M and Bertolin, S and Real, E and Menchon, JM and Carracedo, A and Alonso, P and Fernández-Prieto, M and Segalàs, C}, title = {Prediction of pharmacological response in OCD using machine learning techniques and clinical and neuropsychological variables.}, journal = {Spanish journal of psychiatry and mental health}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1016/j.sjpmh.2024.11.001}, pmid = {39551240}, issn = {2950-2853}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Obsessive compulsive disorder is associated with affected executive functioning, including memory, cognitive flexibility, and organizational strategies. As it was reported in previous studies, patients with preserved executive functions respond better to pharmacological treatment, while others need to keep trying different pharmacological strategies.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this work we used machine learning techniques to predict pharmacological response (OCD patients' symptomatology reduction) based on executive functioning and clinical variables. Among those variables we used anxiety, depression and obsessive-compulsive symptoms scores by applying State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale respectively, while Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test was used to assess organisation skills and non-verbal memory; Digits' subtests from Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-IV were used to assess short-term memory and working memory; and Raven's Progressive Matrices were applied to assess problem solving and abstract reasoning.<br><br>RESULTS: As a result of our analyses, we created a reliable algorithm that predicts Y-BOCS score after 12 weeks based on patients' clinical characteristics (sex at birth, age, pharmacological strategy, depressive and obsessive-compulsive symptoms, years passed since diagnostic and Raven's Progressive Matrices score) and Digits' scores. A high correlation (0.846) was achieved in predicted and true values.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The present study proves the viability to predict if a patient would respond or not to a certain pharmacological strategy with high reliability based on sociodemographics, clinical variables and cognitive functions as short-term memory and working memory. These results are promising to develop future prediction models to help clinical decision making.}, }
@article {pmid39550380, year = {2024}, author = {Ng, JY and Zhou, H and Li, T and Chew, FT}, title = {Comparisons between Caucasian-validated and Chinese-validated photo-numeric scales for assessing facial wrinkles.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {28293}, pmid = {39550380}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {N-154-000-038-001//National University of Singapore/ ; R-154-000-191-112//Singapore Ministry of Education Academic Research Fund/ ; BMRC/01/1/21/18/077//Biomedical Research Council (BMRC) (Singapore)/ ; SIgN-06-006//Singapore Immunology Network/ ; NMRC/1150/2008//National Medical Research Council (NMRC) (Singapore)/ ; NRF-MP-2020-0004//National Research Foundation (NRF) (Singapore)/ ; SFS_RND_SUFP_001_04//Singapore Food Agency (SFA)/ ; H17/01/a0/008//Agency for Science Technology and Research (A*STAR) (Singapore)/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Young Adult ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *East Asian People ; *Face ; *Skin Aging ; *White People ; }, abstract = {Skin ageing results in wrinkling. In this study, we discuss four types of facial wrinkles: Crow's Feet wrinkles, forehead wrinkles, glabellar frown wrinkles, and nasolabial folds. These four phenotypes can be assessed either with a photo-numeric scale developed and validated on Caucasian skin (i.e., Caucasian scale) or with a photo-numeric scale developed and validated on Chinese skin (i.e., Chinese scale). As Caucasian and Chinese skin have inherent differences, the main objective of this study is to determine whether these inherent differences affect the suitability of evaluating facial wrinkles on ethnic Chinese skin with a Caucasian scale. Three trained assessors studied four types of wrinkles on the faces of 1,081 ethnic Chinese young adults from the Singapore/Malaysia Cross-sectional Genetics Epidemiology Study (SMCGES). We found that Caucasian scales and Chinese scales are concordant (Spearman's Rank Correlation (ρ) values: 0.53-0.80) and the level of agreement between the Caucasian scales and Chinese scales is moderately high (Cohen's Kappa (κ) values: 0.40-0.49). When tested on ethnic Chinese skin, both the Caucasian scale and the Chinese scale are largely consistent in showing presence or absence of a given facial wrinkle (Area under curve (AUC) values: 0.79-0.90). All assessors are highly internally consistent (Weighted Kappa (κw) values: 0.686-0.992). Our results build confidence that four types of facial wrinkles on ethnic Chinese faces can be assessed with Caucasian scales. To the best of our knowledge, Chinese scales for facial wrinkles beyond the four types discussed here have yet to be developed. Caucasian scales for these other facial wrinkles will also need to be tested for their suitability to be used on ethnic Chinese skin as and when more Chinese scales are developed.}, }
@article {pmid39550148, year = {2024}, author = {}, title = {50th Anniversary Presidential Edition - Ronald Raven.}, journal = {European journal of surgical oncology : the journal of the European Society of Surgical Oncology and the British Association of Surgical Oncology}, volume = {50}, number = {8}, pages = {108566}, doi = {10.1016/j.ejso.2024.108566}, pmid = {39550148}, issn = {1532-2157}, }
@article {pmid39545188, year = {2024}, author = {Naser, RA and Almaliki, SH and Zghair, FS and Al-Ezzy, AIA}, title = {Study of morphological and histological properties of the pancreas in crow (Linnaecus corvus) and Iraqi black partridge (Melanoperdix niger).}, journal = {Open veterinary journal}, volume = {14}, number = {10}, pages = {2634-2641}, pmid = {39545188}, issn = {2218-6050}, mesh = {Animals ; *Pancreas/anatomy &amp; histology ; *Crows/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; *Galliformes/anatomy &amp; histology ; Male ; Female ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The structures of the pancreas in crow (Linnaecus corvus) and Iraqi black partridge (Melanoperdix niger) were the targets for histological and morphometric differences in both birds.<br><br>AIM: To study the comparative histomorphology of the pancreas in two species black partridge and local crow.<br><br>METHODS: Five healthy black partridge and five local crows were used in the current study.<br><br>RESULTS: The anatomical study reveals that the pancreas in both species is situated within the coelomic compartment on the right side. It is composed of four lobes including splenic, ventral, third, and dorsal lobes. It showed three ducts of the pancreas located between two duodenal limbs. Histologically, the pancreas of both birds contained two portions, endocrine and exocrine zone. The portion that occupied a large area of the pancreas was the exocrine which consisted of acini made of pyramid cells varying in shape and size. In black partridge, the acini have centroacinar cells but no centroacinar in crow. The duct system starting from the intercalated duct, interlobular and terminated by the main duct was folded with line simple columnar epithelium. The islet Langerhans was oval in black partridge and had a distinctive border containing two types of cells (Alpha and Beta), while a Delta, in addition to Alpha Beta cells, was detected in the crow islet Langerhans which was a sphincter in shape.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The pancreas of both bird black partridge (Melanoperdix niger) and crow (Linnaecus corvus) was a lobulated organ, that has a similar location in coelomic cavity. The pancreas in the crow was longer. In addition to the presence of some differences in histological structures between the two birds, a better understanding of the function of the pancreas in these species is needed.}, }
@article {pmid39539237, year = {2025}, author = {Singh, N and Wigmann, C and Vijay, P and Phuleria, HC and Kress, S and Majmudar, G and Kong, R and Krutmann, J and Schikowski, T}, title = {Combined Effect of Ambient Temperature and Relative Humidity on Skin Aging Phenotypes in the Era of Climate Change: Results From an Indian Cohort Study.}, journal = {Dermatitis : contact, atopic, occupational, drug}, volume = {36}, number = {1}, pages = {72-79}, doi = {10.1089/derm.2024.0301}, pmid = {39539237}, issn = {2162-5220}, mesh = {Humans ; *Skin Aging/physiology ; Female ; India ; *Humidity/adverse effects ; *Climate Change ; *Phenotype ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; Cohort Studies ; Hot Temperature/adverse effects ; Temperature ; Ultraviolet Rays/adverse effects ; Environmental Exposure/adverse effects ; Aged ; Air Pollution/adverse effects ; }, abstract = {Background: There is no doubt that global warming, with its extreme heat events, is having an increasing impact on human health. Heat is not independent of ambient temperature but acts synergistically with relative humidity (RH) to increase the risk of several diseases, such as cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases. Although the skin is the organ in direct contact with the environment, it is currently unknown whether skin health is similarly affected. Objective: While mechanistic studies have demonstrated the mechanism of thermal aging, this is the first epidemiological study to investigate the effect of long-term exposure to heat index (HI) as a combined function of elevated ambient temperature and RH on skin aging phenotypes in Indian women. Methods: The skin aging phenotypes of 1510 Indian women were assessed using the Score of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Skin Aging (SCINEXA™) scoring tool. We used data on ambient temperature and RH, combined into an HI with solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR), and air pollution (particulate matter <2.5 µm [PM2.5]; nitrogen dioxide [NO2]) from secondary data sources with a 5-year mean residential exposure window. An adjusted ordinal multivariate logistic regression model was used to assess the effects of HI on skin aging phenotypes. Results: HI increased pigmentation such as hyperpigmented macula on the forehead (odds ratios [OR]: 1.31, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12, 1.54) and coarse wrinkles such as crow's feet (OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.30) and under-eye wrinkles (OR: 1.3, 95% CI: 1.15, 1.47). These associations were robust to the confounding effects of solar UVR and age. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat, as indicated by high HI, contributes to skin aging phenotypes. Conclusion: Thus, ambient temperature and RH are important factors in assessing the skin aging exposome.}, }
@article {pmid39538855, year = {2024}, author = {Cheng, W and Guo, C and Wang, J and Shi, S and Chen, Y and Wang, P and Niu, H and Hu, G and Cui, Y and Yun, B}, title = {Flexible and reconfigurable integrated optical filter based on tunable optical coupler cascaded with coupled resonator optical waveguide.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {32}, number = {14}, pages = {24058-24071}, doi = {10.1364/OE.524798}, pmid = {39538855}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {Reconfigurable optical filter can satisfy diverse filtering requirements in different application scenarios and shorten development cycle. However, it is still challenging to achieve multi-functional filtering richness with high performance. Here, based on a tunable optical coupler cascaded with a coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW), a highly flexible and reconfigurable integrated optical filter is proposed and demonstrated on the low-loss silicon nitride platform. Both single injection and double injection configurations can be deployed to obtain rich spectral responses. For the single injection configuration, flat-top bandpass filter was experimentally achieved, whose shape factor could be as low as 1.648 and extinction ratio (ER) can be 37.5 dB with a bandwidth tuning range from 2.12 to 4.01 GHz. For the double injection configuration, Lorentz, triangular, sinusoidal, square, tangent-like, and interleaver spectral responses have been reconfigured by controlling seven phase shifters. Moreover, both single and double free spectral ranges (FSR) can be obtained for a fixed ring perimeter in the double injection configuration. The measured ER for the notch filter of Lorentz responses with double FSR is 36.8 dB. We believe that the proposed device has great potential for reconfigurable photonic filtering and microwave photonic signal processing.}, }
@article {pmid39522295, year = {2024}, author = {Musálek, M and Malambo, C and Chrudimský, J and Kokštejn, J and Bačáková, R and Vokounová, &#x160;}, title = {Strength-agility and fine motor are differently associated with non-verbal intelligence in dependency to sex and age in school children: Structural equation modelling multigroup approach.}, journal = {Acta psychologica}, volume = {251}, number = {}, pages = {104546}, doi = {10.1016/j.actpsy.2024.104546}, pmid = {39522295}, issn = {1873-6297}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; Child ; *Intelligence/physiology ; *Motor Skills/physiology ; Sex Factors ; Age Factors ; Child Development/physiology ; Latent Class Analysis ; Czech Republic ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In today's digital age, demanding to interpret vast quantities of visual information with speed and accuracy, nonverbal Intelligence has become increasingly crucial for children, as it plays a key role in cognitive development and learning. While motor proficiency has been positively linked to various cognitive functions in children, its relationship with nonverbal Intelligence remains an open question. This study, therefore, explored the structural associations between motor proficiency and nonverbal Intelligence in school-aged children (6 to 11 years), focusing on potential age and sex-specific patterns.<br><br>METHODS: Data were obtained from 396 children aged 6 to 11 (214 boys, 182 girls; mean age 8.9&#xa0;years &#xb1;1.3) divided into younger children 6-8&#xa0;years and older Children 9-11&#xa0;years. Motor proficiency was assessed using the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, Second Edition (BOT-2), and non-verbal Intelligence was evaluated with the Raven Progressive Matrices (RPM). We conducted multigroup structural modelling with non-verbal Intelligence as a dependent latent variable.<br><br>RESULTS: The BOT-2 and RPM models demonstrated an acceptable fit in Czech children. Strength-agility and Fine motor control emerged as the strongest predictors of nonverbal intelligence level assessed by five sets of RPM. Age-specific analyses revealed that the Strength-agility construct was consistently a significant predictor of nonverbal intelligence level in both age categories. However, in older children, also Fine motor control was significantly linked to nonverbal intelligence level. Sex-specific differences were also observed in the structural modelling results, indicating significant predictor non-invariance based on participants' sex. In girls, both Fine motor control and the Strength-agility constructs were significant predictors of nonverbal Intelligence level, showing stronger associations with nonverbal Intelligence than boys. For boys, only the Strength-agility construct was a significant predictor of RPM performance.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study reveals a nuanced age- and sex-specific relationship between children's motor proficiency and nonverbal Intelligence. The findings underscore the need for targeted physical interventions, particularly those emphasising fine motor and strength-agility exercises, to ensure equitable opportunities for motor skill development. Such interventions may enhance physical abilities and support cognitive development in an increasingly digital world.}, }
@article {pmid39520985, year = {2024}, author = {Urban, L and Becker, R and Ochs, A and Sicks, F and Brecht, M and Kaufmann, LV}, title = {Water-hose tool use and showering behavior by Asian elephants.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {34}, number = {23}, pages = {5602-5606.e1}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2024.10.017}, pmid = {39520985}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; *Elephants/physiology ; Female ; *Tool Use Behavior ; Water ; Animals, Zoo/physiology ; }, abstract = {Since Jane Goodall's famous observations of stick tool use by chimpanzees,[1] animal tool use has been observed in numerous species, including many primates, dolphins, and birds. Some animals, such as New Caledonian crows, even craft tools.[2][,][3] Elephants frequently use tools[4][,][5] and also modify them.[6] We studied water-hose tool use in Asian zoo elephants. Flexibility, extension, and water flow make hoses exceptionally complex tools. Individual elephants differed markedly in their water-hose handling. Female elephant Mary displayed sophisticated hose-showering behaviors. She showed lateralized hose handling, systematically showered her body, and coordinated the trunk-held water hose with limb behaviors. Mary usually grasped the hose behind the tip, using it as a stiff shower head. To reach her back, however, she grasped the hose further from the tip and swung it on her back, using hose flexibility and ballistics. Aggressive interactions between Mary and the younger female elephant, Anchali, ensued around Mary's showering time. At some point, Anchali started pulling the water hose toward herself, lifting and kinking it, then regrasping and compressing the kink. This kink-and-clamp behavior disrupted water flow and was repeated in several sessions as a strict sequence of maneuvers. The efficacy of water flow disruption increased over time. In control experiments with multiple hoses, it was not clear whether Anchali specifically targeted Mary's showering hose. We also observed Anchali pressing down on the water hose, performing an on-hose trunk stand, which also disrupted water flow. We conclude that elephants show sophisticated hose tool use and manipulation. VIDEO ABSTRACT.}, }
@article {pmid39513185, year = {2024}, author = {Hospers, L and Dillon, GA and McLachlan, AJ and Alexander, LM and Kenney, WL and Capon, A and Ebi, KL and Ashworth, E and Jay, O and Mavros, Y}, title = {The effect of prescription and over-the-counter medications on core temperature in adults during heat stress: a systematic review and meta-analysis.}, journal = {EClinicalMedicine}, volume = {77}, number = {}, pages = {102886}, pmid = {39513185}, issn = {2589-5370}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Heat stress impacts are an escalating global health concern. Public health bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) warn that certain medications impair thermoregulation, with limited supporting evidence. Our aim was to investigate whether medications listed by the WHO increase core temperature responses during heat stress.<br><br>METHODS: For this systematic review and meta-analysis, MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science, and EMBASE were searched up to Jan.30, 2024. Randomised studies exposing humans to exertional and/or passive heat stress that investigated a drug identified by WHO compared to no drug/placebo were eligible. The primary outcome was core temperature (e.g., rectal, oesophageal, aural, tympanic). We assessed risk of bias (Cochrane's Risk of Bias 2) and certainty of evidence (GRADE). The study was pre-registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020170684).<br><br>FINDINGS: Thirty-five studies were included enrolling 353 individuals (16 women; 4.5%). Twenty-seven unique medications were tested. The average age of participants across studies was <30 years, and only one study included a clinical population. Under heat stress, there was moderate quality evidence that drugs with high anticholinergic properties increased core temperature at air temperatures &#x2265;30&#xb0;C (+0.42&#xb0;C; 95% CI 0.04, 0.79&#xb0;C; p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.03) alongside reduced sweating, although evidence is limited to the drug atropine. Similarly, non-selective beta-blockers (+0.11&#xb0;C; 95% CI 0.02, 0.19&#xb0;C; p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.02), adrenaline (+0.41&#xb0;C; 95% CI 0.21, 0.61&#xb0;C) and anti-Parkinson's agents (+0.13&#xb0;C; 95% CI 0.07, 0.19&#xb0;C; p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.02) elevated core temperature. Antidepressants, diuretics, or drugs with weak anticholinergic effects did not alter core temperature responses.<br><br>INTERPRETATION: Current evidence supports strong anticholinergics, non-selective beta-blockers, adrenaline, and anti-Parkinson's agents impairing thermoregulation during heat stress. No evidence indicated thermoregulation is impacted by other WHO-listed medications. Evidence is predominantly limited to healthy young men, with short heat stress exposures. Studies over longer durations, in women, older adults and those with chronic diseases are required to better inform the pharmaceutical management of patients during hot weather.<br><br>FUNDING: This study was supported by a National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Investigator Grant (2021/GNT2009507; Holder: O. Jay).}, }
@article {pmid39512141, year = {2024}, author = {Gutema, BT and Sorrie, MB and Batire, S and Hailu Zewdie, T and Levecke, B and Abubakar, A and De Henauw, S and Abbeddou, S}, title = {Association of Chronic Malnutrition, and Not Anemia, with Cognitive Development in Ethiopian Schoolchildren: A Cross-Sectional Study.}, journal = {Ecology of food and nutrition}, volume = {63}, number = {6}, pages = {647-668}, doi = {10.1080/03670244.2024.2426104}, pmid = {39512141}, issn = {1543-5237}, mesh = {Humans ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Ethiopia/epidemiology ; Female ; *Cognition/physiology ; Child ; Male ; *Malnutrition/epidemiology ; *Nutritional Status ; *Anemia/epidemiology ; Child Development ; Hemoglobins/analysis ; Body Mass Index ; Chronic Disease ; Thinness/epidemiology ; Adolescent ; Body Height ; }, abstract = {This study assesses the associations between nutritional status and cognitive development of schoolchildren. A unit increase in height-for-age Z-score was associated with 0.12 SD, 0.08 SD and 0.12 SD increase in standardized digit span, Raven's colored progressive metrics, and performance index of visual search task, respectively. A unit increase in body-mass-index-for-age Z-score was associated with 0.11 SD increase in standardized digit span. Hemoglobin concentration was not associated with any of the cognitive outcomes. Chronic malnutrition was associated with cognitive development in schoolchildren while thinness and hemoglobin concentrations were associated with selected or no cognitive outcomes, respectively.}, }
@article {pmid39506848, year = {2024}, author = {Xu, X and Jigeer, G and Gunn, DA and Liu, Y and Chen, X and Guo, Y and Li, Y and Gu, X and Ma, Y and Wang, J and Wang, S and Sun, L and Lin, X and Gao, X}, title = {Facial aging, cognitive impairment, and dementia risk.}, journal = {Alzheimer's research &amp; therapy}, volume = {16}, number = {1}, pages = {245}, pmid = {39506848}, issn = {1758-9193}, support = {JIF201036Y//the Startup grant at Fudan University/ ; XDB38010300//Strategic Priority CAS Project/ ; 2017SHZDZX01//Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Major Project/ ; 81970684//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Male ; *Dementia/epidemiology ; Aged ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/epidemiology ; Middle Aged ; *Aging ; Face ; Risk Factors ; United Kingdom/epidemiology ; China/epidemiology ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Prospective Studies ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Facial aging, cognitive impairment, and dementia are all age-related conditions. However, the temporal relation between facial age and future risk of dementia was not systematically examined.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To investigate the relationship between facial age (both subjective/perceived and objective) and cognitive impairment and/or dementia risk.<br><br>METHODS: The study included 195,329 participants (age&#x2009;&#x2265;&#x2009;60 y) from the UK Biobank (UKB) with self-perceived facial age and 612 participants from the Nutrition and Health of Aging Population in China Project (NHAPC) study (age&#x2009;&#x2265;&#x2009;56 y) with objective assessment of facial age. Cox proportional hazards model was used to prospectively examine the hazard ratios (HRs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of self-perceived facial age and dementia risk in the UKB, adjusting for age, sex, education, APOE &#x3b5;4 allele, and other potential confounders. Linear and logistic regressions were performed to examine the cross-sectional association between facial age (perceived and objective) and cognitive impairment in the UKB and NHAPC, with potential confounders adjusted.<br><br>RESULTS: During a median follow-up of 12.3 years, 5659 dementia cases were identified in the UKB. The fully-adjusted HRs comparing high vs. low perceived facial age were 1.61 (95% CI, 1.33&#x2009;~&#x2009;1.96) for dementia (P-trend&#x2009;&#x2264;&#x2009;0.001). Subjective facial age and cognitive impairment was also observed in the UKB. In the NHAPC, facial age, as assessed by three objective wrinkle parameters, was associated with higher odds of cognitive impairment (P-trend&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). Specifically, the fully-adjusted OR for cognitive impairment comparing the highest versus the lowest quartiles of crow's feet wrinkles number was 2.48 (95% CI, 1.06&#x2009;~&#x2009;5.78).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: High facial age was associated with cognitive impairment, dementia and its subtypes after adjusting for conventional risk factors for dementia. Facial aging may be an indicator of cognitive decline and dementia risk in older adults, which can aid in the early diagnosis and management of age-related conditions.}, }
@article {pmid39506669, year = {2024}, author = {Gona, PN and Estrada-Martinez, LM and Zhang, L and Gona, CM and Mody, A and Rao, SR and Cooper, J and Mack-Shelton, K and Chen, P and Leveille, SG and Mokdad, AH and , }, title = {Racial disparity in mortality from tuberculosis in the US between states with and without a history of Jim-Crow laws: an analysis of the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) and risk factors study, 1990 to 2019.}, journal = {BMC public health}, volume = {24}, number = {1}, pages = {3075}, pmid = {39506669}, issn = {1471-2458}, mesh = {Humans ; United States/epidemiology ; *Tuberculosis/mortality/ethnology ; *Global Burden of Disease ; Risk Factors ; Health Status Disparities ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: While TB-related mortality in the US declined four-fold from 1990 to 2019, country-level estimates of TB burden obscure within-state racial heterogeneity and changes in TB burden over time. In sixteen US Southern States and Washington DC, the effects of health inequities engendered by Jim-Crow laws enacted from the late 1800s to the 1960s have not been evaluated for TB-related mortality. We, therefore, sought to compare TB mortality rates and annualized rate of change (AROC) between 1990 and 2019 in former Jim-Crow vs. non-Jim-Crow states to help guide response efforts and inform resource prioritization to improve racial equity.<br><br>METHODS: We evaluated whether TB-related mortality varied over time, from 1990 to 2019, between states that have a history of enacting Jim-Crow laws vs. states with no such history using estimates from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2019 (GBD 2019). TB mortality per 100,000 population and bootstrap 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs) were modeled using the Cause of Death Ensemble model (CODEm) framework with varying combinations of predictive covariates. For changes over time, we present age-standardized AROC as the percent difference in the natural logarithm of the rate in 1990 and 2019 divided by 30 (i.e., 100*[ln(2019 Rate/1990 Rate)/(30)) and the corresponding 95% UIs.<br><br>RESULTS: TB-related mortality in all US states declined between 1990 and 2019. From 1990 to 2019, most former Jim-Crow states had higher mortality rates than states that did not enact Jim-Crow laws. The most significant decline in TB mortality was in Washington DC, with a six-fold decline from 2.69 (2.46-2.96) per 100,000 population in 1990 to 0.45(0.37-0.55) in 2019, corresponding to an AROC of -0.83% (-0.86;-0.79). The lowest decline was in Iowa, from 0.30 (0.27-0.33) to 0.09 (0.07-0.11) (AROC: -0.70% (-0.76; -0.63)). Eleven of the 16 states and Washington DC in the third tertile of TB mortality rate in 1990 (range 0.81-2.69) had a history of Jim-Crow laws, whereas none of the 17 states in the first tertile (range 0.30-0.51) had such history. Conversely, mortality decreased relatively slowly in former Jim-Crow states than in non-Jim-Crow states.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Even though the 1964 Civil Rights Act dismantled Jim-Crow statutes, racial inequities in TB burden experienced by past generations may still be felt in subsequent generations. Understanding the role of structural racism at the intersection of science and medicine shows the complex ways historical laws, such as Jim-Crow laws, continue to negatively impact health outcomes and warn of future dangers, such as COVID-19, to avoid.}, }
@article {pmid39500372, year = {2024}, author = {Temeroli, E and Jelbert, SA and Lambert, ML}, title = {Do kea parrots infer the weight of objects from their movement in a breeze?.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {20}, number = {11}, pages = {20240405}, pmid = {39500372}, issn = {1744-957X}, support = {//Austrian Science Fund/ ; /BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Parrots/physiology ; Male ; Problem Solving/physiology ; Female ; Weight Perception/physiology ; Movement ; }, abstract = {Weight, though it cannot be seen directly, pervades nearly every aspect of an animal's life. However, the extent to which non-human animals reason about the property of weight remains poorly understood. Recent evidence highlights birds as a promising group for testing this ability: for example, New Caledonian crows can infer the weight of objects after observing their movements in a breeze. Here, we tested for similar weight inference abilities in kea (Nestor notabilis), a parrot species known for its sophisticated problem-solving skills. Subjects were trained to exchange objects of a target weight (light or heavy) for a food reward. They were then allowed to observe pairs of novel objects (one light and one heavy) hung in front of an electric fan in both an experimental condition (fan on, light object moving) and a control condition (fan off, both objects motionless). The birds were subsequently presented with test trials in which they could use the information from the demonstration to select an object of their target weight. We found that, unlike New Caledonian crows, kea did not perform significantly better on trials in which they observed the objects' movements and discussed our findings within the context of the kea's highly explorative nature.}, }
@article {pmid39496638, year = {2024}, author = {Aliabadi, MJ and Radmehr, M}, title = {Hybrid energy system optimization integrated with battery storage in radial distribution networks considering reliability and a robust framework.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {26597}, pmid = {39496638}, issn = {2045-2322}, abstract = {This research presents a robust optimization of a hybrid photovoltaic-wind-battery (PV/WT/Batt) system in distribution networks to reduce active losses and voltage deviation while also enhancing network customer reliability considering production and network load uncertainties. The best installation position and capacity of the hybrid system (HS) are found via an improved crow search algorithm with an inertia weight technique. The robust optimization issue, taking into account the risk of uncertainty, is described using the gap information decision theory method. The proposed approach is used with 33- and 69-bus networks. The results reveal that the HS optimization in the network reduces active losses and voltage variations, while improving network customer reliability. The robust optimization results show that in the 33-bus network, the system remains resilient to prediction errors under the worst-case uncertainty scenario, with a 44.53% reduction in production and a 22.18% increase in network demand for a 30% uncertainty budget. Similarly, in the 69-bus network, the system withstands a 36.22% reduction in production and a 16.97% increase in load for a 25% uncertainty budget. When comparing stochastic and robust methods, it was found that the stochastic Monte Carlo method could not consistently provide a reliable solution for all objectives under uncertainty, whereas the robust approach successfully managed the maximum uncertainty related to renewable generation and network demand across different uncertainty budgets.}, }
@article {pmid39494417, year = {2024}, author = {Shankar, GS and Onyema, EM and Kavin, BP and Gude, V and Prasad, BS}, title = {Breast Cancer Diagnosis Using Virtualization and Extreme Learning Algorithm Based on Deep Feed Forward Networks.}, journal = {Biomedical engineering and computational biology}, volume = {15}, number = {}, pages = {11795972241278907}, pmid = {39494417}, issn = {1179-5972}, abstract = {One of the leading causes of death for women worldwide is breast cancer. Early detection and prompt treatment can reduce the risk of breast cancer-related death. Cloud computing and machine learning are crucial for disease diagnosis today, but they are especially important for those who live in distant places with poor access to healthcare. While machine learning-based diagnosis tools act as primary readers and aid radiologists in correctly diagnosing diseases, cloud-based technology can also assist remote diagnostics and telemedicine services. The promise of techniques based on Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) for sickness diagnosis has attracted the attention of several re-searchers. The 4 methods for the proposed research include preprocessing, feature extraction, and classification. A Smart Window Vestige Deletion (SWVD) technique is initially suggested for preprocessing. It consists of Savitzky-Golay (S-G) smoothing, updated 2-stage filtering, and adaptive time window division. This technique separates each channel into multiple time periods by adaptively pre-analyzing its specificity. On each window, an altered 2-stage filtering process is then used to retrieve some tumor information. After applying S-G smoothing and integrating the broken time sequences, the process is complete. In order to deliver effective feature extraction, the Deep Residual based Multiclass for architecture (DRMFA) is used. In histological photos, identify characteristics at the cellular and tissue levels in both tiny and large size patches. Finally, a fresh customized strategy that combines a better crow forage-ELM. Deep learning and the Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) are concepts that have been developed (ACF-ELM). When it comes to diagnosing ailments, the cloud-based ELM performs similarly to certain cutting-edge technology. The cloud-based ELM approach beats alternative solutions, according to the DDSM and INbreast dataset results. Significant experimental results show that the accuracy for data inputs is 0.9845, the precision is 0.96, the recall is 0.94, and the F1 score is 0.95.}, }
@article {pmid39492799, year = {2025}, author = {Hess, KZ and Forsythe, KR and Wang, X and Arredondo-Navarro, A and Tipling, G and Jones, J and Mata, M and Hughes, V and Martin, C and Doyle, J and Scott, J and Minghetti, M and Jilling, A and Cerrato, JM and El Hayek, E and Gonzalez-Estrella, J}, title = {Emerging investigator series: open dumping and burning: an overlooked source of terrestrial microplastics in underserved communities.}, journal = {Environmental science. Processes &amp; impacts}, volume = {27}, number = {1}, pages = {52-62}, pmid = {39492799}, issn = {2050-7895}, support = {P50 MD015706/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; R15 ES034901/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Microplastics/analysis ; *Environmental Monitoring ; Montana ; Soil Pollutants/analysis ; Oklahoma ; Refuse Disposal ; Waste Disposal Facilities ; }, abstract = {Open dumping and burning of solid waste are widely practiced in underserved communities lacking access to solid waste management facilities; however, the generation of microplastics from these sites has been overlooked. We report elevated concentrations of microplastics (MPs) in soil of three solid waste open dump and burn sites: a single-family site in Tuttle, Oklahoma, USA, and two community-wide sites in Crow Agency and Lodge Grass, Montana, USA. We extracted, quantified, and characterized MPs from two soil depths (0-9 cm and 9-18 cm). The average of abundance of particles found at community-wide sites three sites (18, 460 particles kg[-1] soil) equals or exceeds reported concentrations from currently understood sources of MPs including biosolids application and other agricultural practices. Attenuated total reflectance Fourier transformed infrared (ATR-FTIR) identified polyethylene as the dominant polymer across all sites (46.2-84.8%). We also detected rayon (≤11.5%), polystyrene (up to 11.5%), polyethylene terephthalate (≤5.1), polyvinyl chloride (≤4.4%), polyester (≤3.1), and acrylic (≤2.2%). Burned MPs accounted for 76.3 to 96.9% of the MPs found in both community wide dumping sites. These results indicate that solid waste dumping and burning activities are a major source of thermally oxidized MPs for the surrounding terrestrial environment with potential to negatively affect underserved communities.}, }
@article {pmid39475969, year = {2024}, author = {Liu, J and Zhou, F and Yan, H and Liang, W}, title = {Breeding stages affect egg recognition in azure-winged magpies (Cyanopica cyanus).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {27}, number = {1}, pages = {71}, pmid = {39475969}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {No. 32160242//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; Nos. 31970427 and 32270526//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Ovum ; Female ; *Recognition, Psychology ; Passeriformes/physiology ; China ; }, abstract = {Egg rejection often involves a cognitive process of recognizing foreign eggs, which can vary not only between species or among different individuals of the same species, but also within the same individual during different breeding stages, leading to markedly different responses to parasitic eggs. We conducted a comparative study in Wuhan, Hubei, and Fusong, Jilin, China, on the recognition and rejection behavior of azure-winged magpies (Cyanopica cyanus) at different breeding stages (pre-egg-laying, one-host-egg, multi-host-egg and early incubation stages). In the Fusong population, there was a significant difference in the rejection rate of model eggs by azure-winged magpies at different stages of the egg-laying period. During the one-host-egg stage, the rejection rate (63.6%) was significantly lower than that during the pre-egg-laying stage (85.7%) and the multi-host-egg stage (100%). The population of azure-winged magpies in Wuhan exhibited a 100% rejection rate towards model eggs during the pre-egg-laying stage. Furthermore, during the incubation stage, azure-winged magpies were able to accurately recognize and reject foreign eggs even when those were in majority. This indicates that azure-winged magpies employ a template-based recognition mechanism rather than relying on discordance mechanism for recognition after the onset of incubation. This study suggests that while azure-winged magpies can truly recognize their own eggs, different breeding stages still influence their rejection response towards parasitic eggs, especially during the pre-egg-laying and egg laying stages.}, }
@article {pmid39474474, year = {2024}, author = {Helmstetter, NA and Conway, CJ and Roberts, S and Adams, JR and Makela, PD and Waits, LP}, title = {Predator-specific mortality of sage-grouse nests based on predator DNA on eggshells.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {14}, number = {10}, pages = {e70213}, pmid = {39474474}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Greater sage-grouse (hereafter sage-grouse; Centrocercus urophasianus) populations have declined across their range. Increased nest predation as a result of anthropogenic land use is one mechanism proposed to explain these declines. However, sage-grouse contend with a diverse suite of nest predators that vary in functional traits (e.g., search tactics or hunting mode) and abundance. Consequently, generalizing about factors influencing nest fate is challenging. Identifying the explicit predator species responsible for nest predation events is, therefore, critical to understanding causal mechanisms linking land use to patterns of sage-grouse nest success. Cattle grazing is often assumed to adversely affect sage-grouse recruitment by reducing grass height (and hence cover), thereby facilitating nest detection by predators. However, recent evidence found little support for the hypothesized effect of grazing on nest fate at the pasture scale. Rather, nest success appears to be similar on pastures grazed at varying intensities. One possible explanation for the lack of observed effect involves a localized response by one or more nest predators. The presence of cattle may cause a temporary reduction in predator density and/or use within a pasture (the cattle avoidance hypothesis). The cattle avoidance hypothesis predicts a decreased probability of at least one sage-grouse nest predator predating sage-grouse nests in pastures with livestock relative to pastures without livestock present during the nesting season. To test the cattle avoidance hypothesis, we collected predator DNA from eggshells from predated nests and used genetic methods to identify the sage-grouse nest predator(s) responsible for the predation event. We evaluated the influence of habitat and grazing on predator-specific nest predation. We evaluated the efficacy of our genetic method by deploying artificial nests with trail cameras and compared the results of our genetic method to the species captured via trail camera. Our molecular methods identified at least one nest predator captured predating artificial nests via trail camera for 33 of 35 (94%) artificial nests. We detected nest predators via our molecular analysis at 76 of 114 (67%) predated sage-grouse nests. The primary predators detected at sage-grouse nests were coyotes (Canis latrans) and corvids (Corvidea). Grazing did not influence the probability of nest predation by either coyotes or corvids. Sagebrush canopy cover was negatively associated with the probability a coyote predated a nest, distance to water was positively associated with the probability a corvid predated a nest, and average minimum temperature was negatively associated with the probability that either a coyote or a corvid predated a nest. Our study provides a framework for implementing an effective, non-invasive method for identifying sage-grouse nest predators that can be used to better understand how management actions at local and regional scales may impact an important component of sage-grouse recruitment.}, }
@article {pmid39473055, year = {2024}, author = {Gupta, K and Mandal, R and Chatterjee, P}, title = {Navigating the landscape of cervical cancer in India: Epidemiology, prevention, current status, and emerging solutions.}, journal = {The journal of obstetrics and gynaecology research}, volume = {50 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {55-64}, doi = {10.1111/jog.16030}, pmid = {39473055}, issn = {1447-0756}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Early Detection of Cancer/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Health Policy ; India/epidemiology ; Papillomavirus Vaccines/administration &amp; dosage ; *Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/prevention &amp; control/epidemiology ; Aged ; }, abstract = {Cervical cancer poses a significant health burden for women worldwide, particularly in India. Despite global progress, India's mortality rate, with 79 906 deaths, remains disproportionately high at approximately 11.2 per 100 000 women compared to the global average of 7.1 per 100 000 women. India's NPCDCS and other initiatives focus on VIA screening for women aged 30-65. The National Health Policy 2017 emphasizes primary healthcare enhancement, allocating two-thirds of the budget. Ayushman Bharat promotes universal health coverage, including Health and Wellness Centers and PM-JAY. Initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and the National Cancer Grid offer hope for improved cancer care. Leveraging technology, strengthening infrastructure, integrating services, promoting awareness, and enhancing HPV vaccination are crucial. By addressing barriers, improving access, and fostering collaboration, the cervical cancer burden can be reduced, ensuring better health outcomes for women nationwide.}, }
@article {pmid39466899, year = {2024}, author = {Cardeña, E}, title = {An homage to Steven Jay Lynn.}, journal = {The American journal of clinical hypnosis}, volume = {66}, number = {4}, pages = {357-359}, doi = {10.1080/00029157.2024.2396776}, pmid = {39466899}, issn = {2160-0562}, }
@article {pmid39465599, year = {2024}, author = {Coombs, S and Trestman, M}, title = {A multi-trait embodied framework for the evolution of brains and cognition across animal phyla.}, journal = {The Behavioral and brain sciences}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-52}, doi = {10.1017/S0140525X24000335}, pmid = {39465599}, issn = {1469-1825}, abstract = {Among non-human animals, crows, octopuses and honeybees are well-known for their complex brains and cognitive abilities. Widening the lens from the idiosyncratic abilities of exemplars like these to those of animals across the phylogenetic spectrum begins to reveal the ancient evolutionary process by which complex brains and cognition first arose in different lineages. The distribution of 35 phenotypic traits in 17 metazoan lineages reveals that brain and cognitive complexity in only three lineages (vertebrates, cephalopod mollusks, and euarthropods) can be attributed to the pivotal role played by body, sensory, brain and motor traits in active visual sensing and visuomotor skills. Together, these pivotal traits enabled animals to transition from largely reactive to more proactive behaviors, and from slow and two-dimensional motion to more rapid and complex three-dimensional motion. Among pivotal traits, high-resolution eyes and laminated visual regions of the brain stand out because they increased the processing demands on and the computational power of the brain by several orders of magnitude. The independent acquisition of pivotal traits in cognitively complex (CC) lineages can be explained as the completion of several multi-trait transitions over the course of evolutionary history, each resulting in an increasing level of complexity that arises from a distinct combination of traits. Whereas combined pivotal traits represent the highest level of complexity in CC lineages, combined traits at lower levels characterize many non-CC lineages, suggesting that certain body, sensory and brain traits may have been linked (the trait-linkage hypothesis) during the evolution of both CC and non-CC lineages.}, }
@article {pmid39463698, year = {2024}, author = {Kryukov, AP and Kryukov, KA and Collier, K and Fang, B and Edwards, SV}, title = {Mitogenomics clarifies the position of the Nearctic magpies (Pica hudsonia and Pica nuttalli) within the Holarctic magpie radiation.}, journal = {Current zoology}, volume = {70}, number = {5}, pages = {618-630}, pmid = {39463698}, issn = {1674-5507}, abstract = {Partial separation of a peripheral population may lead to its divergence and, potentially, speciation due to genetic drift followed by selection and geographic isolation. This process may cause taxonomic uncertainty because reproductive isolation in allopatry cannot be verified directly. The two Nearctic allopatric species of magpies (Aves, Corvidae: Pica) serve as a good example of these problems. The Black-billed magpie Pica hudsonia is widely distributed in North America, whereas the Yellow-billed Magpie Pica nuttalli is endemic to a restricted range in California. Their relationships with Palearctic species have been little studied. We obtained complete mitochondrial genomes of both Nearctic magpie species, along with the Eurasian Magpie (Pica pica) and the Oriental Magpie (Pica serica), 20 mitogenomes in total. Phylogenetic analysis reveals a basal position of P. serica, and P. pica as a sister clade to the two Nearctic species. P. hudsonia and P. nuttalli form reciprocal monophyletic subclades, showing recent divergence between and within them. Our data show that the Nearctic magpie lineage diverged from the common ancestor with P. pica, with a single migration wave via the Beringia. Within the Nearctic, we hypothesize a peripatric mode of speciation among Pica taxa due to the divergence and separation of the small marginal population in California below the Sierra-Nevada mountains. Diversifying amino acid substitutions in ND4-ND5-ND6 genes along the branch leading to the New World clade may indicate selection for heat-tolerance. Considering the clear phenotypic differences between P. hudsonia and P. nuttalli, our data, showing their reciprocal monophylies and genetic distinctness, is consistent with the two-species taxonomy.}, }
@article {pmid39463687, year = {2024}, author = {Yuan, K and Yang, S and Liu, J and Liang, W}, title = {Responses of birds to observers holding popguns: Hunting history influences escape behavior of urban birds.}, journal = {Current zoology}, volume = {70}, number = {5}, pages = {631-636}, pmid = {39463687}, issn = {1674-5507}, abstract = {Human activities affect bird behavior both directly and indirectly. Birds constantly regulate their behavior in response to human disturbance. Gun hunting, a major directional disturbance, puts enormous selection pressure on birds. In China, gun bans have been in place for nearly 30 years, and little hunting using guns occurs in modern cities. However, little attention has been paid to whether a history of hunting still affects the behavioral adaptations of urban birds. In this study, we compared the flight initiation distance (FID) of the Eurasian tree sparrow Passer montanus, Azure-winged magpie Cyanopica cyanus, Common hoopoe Upupa epops and Eurasian magpie Pica pica in the presence of observers with or without popguns. The Eurasian tree sparrow, Azure-winged magpie, and Eurasian magpie effectively recognized the difference between the observers, and perceived the armed observer as a greater threat, exhibiting earlier escape behavior, but this phenomenon was not found in the Common hoopoe. The different expressions in FID of experimental bird species in China cities may be affected by the different levels of recognition of hunting pressure due to different hunting histories.}, }
@article {pmid39460872, year = {2025}, author = {Govindharaj, V and Herald Victor, MBB and Garber, PA and Parthasarathy, TN}, title = {Nest raiding by bonnet macaques (Macaca radiata) and the response of nest guarding birds in a suburban habitat.}, journal = {Primates; journal of primatology}, volume = {66}, number = {1}, pages = {41-45}, pmid = {39460872}, issn = {1610-7365}, support = {PU/AD-3/URF-Extension/025191/23F85502/204//Periyar University/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Nesting Behavior ; *Ecosystem ; Female ; India ; *Macaca radiata/physiology ; Predatory Behavior ; Male ; Crows/physiology ; Birds/physiology ; }, abstract = {In many primate species, nest raiding is a form of opportunistic foraging behavior designed to acquire protein-rich eggs and nestlings. In urban environments, this is a significant cause of nest failure in birds. Here, we describe nest raiding and egg predation in bonnet macaques (Macaca radiata) inhabiting a suburban area of Salem, Tamil Nadu, India. During nest raiding, large-billed crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) and house crows (Corvus splendens), actively defended their nest from the macaques. When several macaque foragers jointly raided the nest, they were successful in obtaining and consuming the eggs. In contrast, when a solitary macaque attempted to raid the nest, it was unsuccessful. Bird size appeared to play an important role in nest defense. Small birds, such as the scaly breasted munia (Lonchura punctulata) and the purple sunbird (Cinnyris asiaticus) were not able to protect their nests from lone bonnet macaques. These observations indicate that in urban landscapes, bonnet macaques are egg predators of many bird species. When macaques coordinate their actions and forage in small subgroups, they were more successful in preying on the eggs of larger-bodied bird species.}, }
@article {pmid39458342, year = {2024}, author = {Tang, B and Wang, Y and Dong, Y and Cui, Q and Zeng, Z and He, S and Zhao, W and Lancuo, Z and Li, S and Wang, W}, title = {The Catalog of Microbial Genes and Metagenome-Assembled Genomes from the Gut Microbiomes of Five Typical Crow Species on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau.}, journal = {Microorganisms}, volume = {12}, number = {10}, pages = {}, pmid = {39458342}, issn = {2076-2607}, support = {2022-HZ-812//the program of science and technology international coop-654 eration project of Qinghai province/ ; }, abstract = {While considerable progress has been made in understanding the complex relationships between gut microbiomes and their hosts, especially in mammals and humans, the functions of these microbial communities in avian species remain largely unexplored. This gap in knowledge is particularly notable, given the critical roles gut microbiomes are known to play in facilitating crucial physiological functions, such as digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune system development. Corvidae birds are omnivorous and widely distributed across various habitats, exhibiting strong adaptability and often displaying the traits of accompanying humans. However, to date, information on species composition, sequenced genomes, and functional characteristics of crow gut microbes is lacking. Herein, we constructed the first relatively comprehensive crows gut microbial gene catalog (2.74 million genes) and 195 high-quality and medium-quality metagenome-assembled genomes using 53 metagenomic samples from five typical crow species (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax, Corvus dauuricus, Corvus frugilegus, Corvus macrorhynchos, and Corvus corax) on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. The species composition of gut microbiota at the phylum and genus levels was revealed for these five crow species. Simultaneously, numerous types of prevalent pathogenic bacteria were identified, indicating the potential of these crows to transmit diseases within the local community. At the functional level, we annotated a total of 356 KEGG functional pathways, six CAZyme categories, and 3607 virulence factor genes in the gut microbiomes of the crows. The gut microbiota of five distinct crow species underwent a comparative analysis, which uncovered significant differences in their composition, diversity, and functional structures. Over 36% of MAGs showed no overlap with existing databases, suggesting they might represent new species. Consequently, these findings enriched the dataset of microbial genomes associated with crows' digestive systems. Overall, this study offers crucial baseline information regarding the gut microbial gene catalog and genomes in crows, potentially aiding microbiome-based research, as well as an evaluation of the health risks to humans from the bacterial pathogens transmitted by wild birds.}, }
@article {pmid39457130, year = {2024}, author = {Bello, A and Ferraresi, P and Pallini, S and Perucchini, P and Lonigro, A}, title = {Which Factors Predict L2 Receptive Vocabulary and Expressive Syntax in Bilingual Children from Low-SES Families?.}, journal = {Children (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {11}, number = {10}, pages = {}, pmid = {39457130}, issn = {2227-9067}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The objective of the current study was two-fold. First, it aimed to estimate receptive vocabulary and expressive syntax skills in L2 Italian among early sequential/simultaneous bilingual children of migrant single-mother families with very low socioeconomic status (SES). This objective was achieved by matching the participants' performance with normative data. Secondly, this study aimed to identify which individual and language exposure factors contributed to learning L2 vocabulary and syntax.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty-four early sequential/simultaneous bilingual children (age range = 5.10-12.4 years) and their mothers were enrolled. Mothers answered questions about linguistic biography and demographic information. Children completed Lexical Comprehension, Sentence Repetition, and Non-Word Repetition tasks from the Language Assessment Battery for 4-12-year-olds to, respectively, assess receptive vocabulary, expressive syntax, and phonological processing. Moreover, non-verbal intellectual functioning was evaluated by the Raven's Test.<br><br>RESULTS/DISCUSSION: Compared to normative data, 20 children showed lower receptive vocabulary abilities (<-1.5 SD), 24 lower expressive syntax skills (-2DS), and 7 children lower phonological processing (<-1.5 DS). Moreover, L2 phonological processing and the length of L2 exposure in an educational context positively predicted L2 receptive vocabulary as well as L2 expressive syntax skills. To date, performance in L2 among early sequential/simultaneous bilingual children from migrant households and very low SES remains underexplored. Future efforts need to be directed towards the understanding of factors that impact oral competence in L2, considering that these children will also be exposed to written L2 in the school context.}, }
@article {pmid39455458, year = {2024}, author = {Yue, Q and Cao, Z and Li, R and Wang, Y and Rui, S and Zhang, T and Liu, L}, title = {"Folding Fan Flap": A Novel and Dependable Surgical Technique for Crow's Feet Correction by Z-Plasty of Orbicularis Oculi Muscle.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {39455458}, issn = {1432-5241}, support = {2021-I2M-1-052//Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Innovation Funds for Medical Sciences/ ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The challenge of crow's feet surgical correction is to minimize the complication caused by orbicularis oculi muscle (OOM) resection while ensuring the operative effect. This study aims to propose a novel technique to solve this problem and evaluate its efficacy.<br><br>METHODS: From January 2022 to April 2024, all patients who received "Folding fan flap" in our institution were included. The outer third of the OOM below the lateral canthus was dissected and received Z-plasty to exchange width for length and reconstruct the muscle dynamics in a non-circular direction. Preoperative and postoperative smiling crow's feet were assessed by two independent physicians using the Lemperle wrinkle scale. At least six months after surgery, patient satisfaction with wrinkle correction, naturalness of facial expression, and local flattening was subjectively evaluated on a five-point scale. Complications including hematomas, incomplete eyelid closure, facial stiffness, and forehead numbness were recorded.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 32 patients (63 sides) were included with a mean follow-up of 13.9 &#xb1; 5.2 months. Postoperative assessments showed a significant reduction in Lemperle's score from 4.8 &#xb1; 0.4 to 1.5 &#xb1; 0.5 (P=0.000). Regarding the satisfaction of surgical outcomes and the naturalness of facial expressions, thirty patients (93.8%) were very satisfied. There were no severe complications such as hematomas and incomplete eyelid closure.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Preliminary clinical studies demonstrated the efficacy of this technique in ensuring outcomes while preserving normal dynamic expressions. By Z-plasty of the outer circle of OOM, the muscle dynamic was successfully modified rather than eradicated.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .}, }
@article {pmid39448510, year = {2024}, author = {Johnston, M and Scarf, D}, title = {Are crows smart? Let them count the ways.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {39448510}, issn = {1543-4508}, abstract = {Liao et al. demonstrated that crows can count out loud, revealing a level of vocal control previously unobserved in nonhuman species. This discovery suggests that rather than being judged by primate standards, birds might represent a new benchmark for vocal and perhaps broader cognitive abilities.}, }
@article {pmid39447325, year = {2024}, author = {Kruger, RF and Pédra, MMG and Fonseca, LDS and Morales, DF and Rodrigues, GD and Marinho, MAT}, title = {The impact of burnt carcass on the occurrence probability of Chrysomya albiceps and Lucilia ochricornis (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in southern Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.}, journal = {Forensic science international}, volume = {365}, number = {}, pages = {112249}, doi = {10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.112249}, pmid = {39447325}, issn = {1872-6283}, mesh = {Animals ; *Calliphoridae/growth &amp; development ; *Forensic Entomology ; *Postmortem Changes ; Brazil ; Swine ; *Feeding Behavior ; Models, Animal ; Fires ; Linear Models ; Diptera ; }, abstract = {We evaluated the impact of burnt carcasses on the probability of finding Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann, 1819) and Lucilia ochricornis (Wiedemann, 1830) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), and the time it took for them to arrive at the experimental carcasss. These species are biological indicators of the postmortem interval (PMI) in forensic scenarios. Using stillborn pig carcasses, this study analysed how different degrees of burning affect the level of attraction and colonisation by these species. Experimental models were subjected to level 2 (CG2) and 4 (CG4) burning according to the Crow-Glassman (CG) scale, ranging from fresh to skeletonization. Generalised Linear Models (GLM) with a Binomial distribution were used to evaluate the influence of decomposition time and experimental treatment on the probability of occurrence of each species. Additionally, survival analyses with the Weibull distribution were used to investigate how long it takes until the arrival of the first fly species in each experimental group. The results indicate that burning affects the probability of occurrence and colonisation time of the studied fly species. Although both species were affected by high degrees of burning, Lucilia ochricornis was more heavily affected than Chrysomya albiceps. This pattern was reflected in the time it took for the first occurrence of each fly species. In both cases, it took longer for flies to arrive at carcasses that had been more severely burnt. In the case of C. albiceps, the longest mean time until a fly was detected (Weibull, α = 79.9 h) happened in the CG4 group, followed by the CG2 group (α = 65.6 h) and the control group (α = 51.5 h). In contrast, for L. ochricornis, the longest mean first occurrence time (α = 85.4 h) was in CG2 group, followed by the Control (α = 49.1 h) and CG4 (α = 54.4 h) groups. This study emphasises the importance of considering whether or not a carcass was burnt and its degree of burning in forensic investigations, given that this variable can influence the accuracy of PMI estimation in crime scenes.}, }
@article {pmid39441044, year = {2024}, author = {Lau, RC and Anderson, PJ and Gathercole, S and Wiley, JF and Spencer-Smith, M}, title = {Does working memory training in children need to be adaptive? A randomized controlled trial.}, journal = {Child development}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1111/cdev.14180}, pmid = {39441044}, issn = {1467-8624}, support = {//Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University/ ; //Australian Government Research Training Program Scholarship/ ; //Monash Graduate Excellence Scholarship/ ; //Tan Kah Kee Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship/ ; 1178487//National Health and Medical Research Council Investigator Grants/ ; 1176077//National Health and Medical Research Council Investigator Grants/ ; }, abstract = {Most cognitive training programs are adaptive, despite limited direct evidence that this maximizes children's outcomes. This randomized controlled trial evaluated working memory training with difficulty of activities presented using adaptive, self-select, or stepwise compared with an active control. At baseline, immediately, and 6-months post-intervention, 201 Australian primary school children (101 males, 7-11 years) completed working memory tests (near and intermediate transfer) and the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices, and caregivers completed the attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder-Rating Scale-5 (far transfer). The intervention comprised ten 20-min sessions delivered in class. For each training condition, compared with the active control, there was no evidence of transfer immediately or 6-months post-intervention (negligible to small effects). This trial provides no evidence that adaptive working memory training maximizes children's outcomes.}, }
@article {pmid39440441, year = {2024}, author = {Mazengenya, P and Manger, PR}, title = {Nuclear parcellation of pontine catecholaminergic and cholinergic neurons in gray parrots and pied crow brains.}, journal = {Anatomical record (Hoboken, N.J. : 2007)}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1002/ar.25593}, pmid = {39440441}, issn = {1932-8494}, support = {2022-IRG-MED-3//Ajman University Research Grant/ ; }, abstract = {Employing immunohistochemical procedures with antibodies raised against tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and choline acetyltransferase we identified and mapped the locus coeruleus complex (LoC) and the pontine laterodorsal tegmental (LDT) and pedunculopontine tegmental (PPN) cholinergic nuclei in the brains of a Congo gray parrot, a timneh gray parrot, and a pied crow. The LoC and LDT/PPN are centrally involved in the regulation and generation of different sleep states, and as all birds studied to date show both REM and non-REM sleep states, like mammals, we investigated whether these noradrenergic and cholinergic nuclei in the avian pons shared anatomical features with those in the mammalian pons. The LoC was parcellated into 3 distinct nuclei, including the locus coeruleus (A6), subcoeruleus (A7), and the fifth arcuate nucleus (A5), while distinct LDT and PPN nuclei were revealed. Several similarities that allow the assumption of homology of these nuclei between birds and mammals were revealed, including their location relative to each other and other structures within the pontine region, as well as a specific degree of topographical overlap of the noradrenergic and cholinergic neurons. Despite this, some differences were noted that may be of interest in understanding the differences in sleep between birds and mammals. Further anatomical and physiological studies are needed to determine whether these pontine nuclei in birds play the same role as in mammals, as while the homology is apparent, the functional analogy needs to be revealed.}, }
@article {pmid39437743, year = {2024}, author = {Taylor, AH and Johnston, M}, title = {How do animals understand the physical world?.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {34}, number = {20}, pages = {R996-R999}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2024.07.005}, pmid = {39437743}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal/physiology ; *Cognition/physiology ; Environment ; }, abstract = {The natural world is full of examples of animals interacting with their physical environment in surprising ways: capuchin monkeys crack open nuts with rocks; dolphins use sponges as 'gloves' on their rostra when searching for prey on the sea floor; and New Caledonian crows manufacture stick tools to pull grubs from logs (Figure 1). Deeper into the phylogenetic tree we continue to see interesting examples of behaviors of this kind, such as octopuses using coconut shells for protection, tuskfish breaking open cockles by hitting them against coral heads, and bees learning to pull string to gain out-of-reach food. These sophisticated behavioral interactions with their physical environment suggest that animals might have a deep understanding of their physical world at a cognitive level. In this primer, we review the performances of a variety of species when faced with tasks that probe their understanding of their physical world.}, }
@article {pmid39435948, year = {2024}, author = {Hoffmann, DE}, title = {Charity Scott - A Masterful Teacher.}, journal = {The Journal of law, medicine &amp; ethics : a journal of the American Society of Law, Medicine &amp; Ethics}, volume = {52}, number = {2}, pages = {224-227}, doi = {10.1017/jme.2024.93}, pmid = {39435948}, issn = {1748-720X}, mesh = {Humans ; *Awards and Prizes ; History, 21st Century ; History, 20th Century ; Maryland ; United States ; Faculty/history ; }, abstract = {In 2006, the University of Maryland Carey School of Law had the privilege of co-hosting the annual Health Law Professors Conference with the American Society of Law, Medicine &amp; Ethics (ASLME). Coincidentally, as director of the Law &amp; Health Care Program at Maryland, I had the opportunity to announce the winner of the Jay Healey Health Law Teachers' Award at the conference. The award is given to "professors who have devoted a significant portion of their career to health law teaching and whose selection would honor Jay [Healey's] legacy through their passion for teaching health law, their mentoring of students and/or other faculty and by their being an inspiration to colleagues and students."[1] Healey, a Professor in the Humanities Department at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine, was the youngest recipient of the Society's Health Law Teachers' Award, which he received in 1990. He was passionate about teaching and had the idea to devote a session each year at the annual conference to teaching health law. It was always a plenary session at which he challenged us to be better teachers. Jay died in 1993, at the age of 46, not long after the Health Law Teachers conference that year, which he attended and which also happened to be held in Baltimore at the University of Maryland School of Law. Thereafter, the award was given in his name.}, }
@article {pmid39435947, year = {2024}, author = {Watson, SD}, title = {A Tribute to Professor Charity Scott: Imagination, Reflection, and the Jay Healey Teaching Plenary.}, journal = {The Journal of law, medicine &amp; ethics : a journal of the American Society of Law, Medicine &amp; Ethics}, volume = {52}, number = {2}, pages = {228-231}, doi = {10.1017/jme.2024.122}, pmid = {39435947}, issn = {1748-720X}, mesh = {Humans ; Georgia ; *Teaching/history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Faculty/history ; }, abstract = {Georgia State University College of Law Professor Emerita Charity Scott quoted these words from Albert Einstein in June of 2022 as she concluded a tribute to Professor Joseph (Jay) M. Healey, one of the founding lights of health law and health law teaching. She chose the quote because she thought the words and sentiment would resonate with Jay. I repeat it because Dr. Einstein's words capture the essence and heart of Charity's approach to teaching, pedagogy, and life. Charity modeled, urged, nudged, and taught the community of health law professors to embrace imagination and creativity. Charity's vision has helped us be more creative and reflective teachers.[2].}, }
@article {pmid39419984, year = {2024}, author = {Lengyel, K and Rudra, M and Berghof, TVL and Leitão, A and Frankl-Vilches, C and Dittrich, F and Duda, D and Klinger, R and Schleibinger, S and Sid, H and Trost, L and Vikkula, H and Schusser, B and Gahr, M}, title = {Unveiling the critical role of androgen receptor signaling in avian sexual development.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {8970}, pmid = {39419984}, issn = {2041-1723}, mesh = {Animals ; *Receptors, Androgen/metabolism/genetics ; Male ; Female ; *Signal Transduction ; *Chickens/metabolism ; *Testosterone/metabolism ; *Sexual Development ; Sexual Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Fertility ; }, abstract = {Gonadal hormone activities mediated by androgen and estrogen receptors, along with cell-autonomous mechanisms arising from the absence of sex-chromosome dosage compensation, are key factors in avian sexual development. In this study, we generate androgen receptor (AR) knockout chickens (AR[-/-]) to explore the role of androgen signaling in avian sexual development. Despite developing sex-typical gonads and gonadal hormone production, AR[-/-] males and females are infertile. While few somatic sex-specific traits persist (body size, spurs, and tail feathers), crucial sexual attributes such as comb, wattles and sexual behaviors remain underdeveloped in both sexes. Testosterone treatment of young AR[-/-] males fails to induce crow behavior, comb development, or regression of the bursa of Fabricius, which are testosterone-dependent phenotypes. These findings highlight the significance of androgen receptor mechanisms in fertility and sex-specific traits in chickens, challenging the concept of a default sex in birds and emphasizing the dominance of androgen signaling in avian sexual development.}, }
@article {pmid39418618, year = {2024}, author = {Yearby, R}, title = {The Return of Jim Crow: Government Discrimination Against Women, LGBTQIA+ Individuals, and Racial/Ethnic Minority Individuals.}, journal = {American journal of public health}, volume = {114}, number = {12}, pages = {1331-1334}, pmid = {39418618}, issn = {1541-0048}, }
@article {pmid39409738, year = {2024}, author = {Skoracki, M and Nielsen, &#xd3;K and Sikora, B}, title = {Corvisyringophilus, a New Genus in the Family Syringophilidae (Acariformes: Prostigmata) and Its Phylogenetic Position among Primitive Genera.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {14}, number = {19}, pages = {}, pmid = {39409738}, issn = {2076-2615}, support = {UAM ID-UB 094/07/POB1/0013 (to M.S.)//Excellence Initiative Program "Mobility" of the UAM Research University/ ; UAM UD-UB 094/07/POB1/0012 (to B.S.)//Excellence Initiative Program "Mobility" of the UAM Research University/ ; }, abstract = {Syringophilidae is one of the most species-rich families in the superfamily Cheyletoidea, comprising approximately 420 species across 62 genera and two subfamilies. In this paper, we propose a new genus, Corvisyringophilus, and a new species, C. krummi gen. n. et sp. n., found in the wing covert quills of the Common Raven, Corvus corax Linnaeus, in Iceland. Corvisyringophilus is placed among the primitive genera of syringophilid mites, which possess the full complement of idiosomal and leg setae. Phylogenetic analysis based on morphological characters suggests that this genus forms a sister clade to Blaszakia Skoracki &amp; Sikora, 2008, and Charadriphilus Bochkov &amp; Mironov, 1998, which inhabit birds of the orders Musophagiformes and Charadriiformes, respectively. The study proposes that the current distribution patterns of quill mites, based on their morphological characteristics, may result from multiple host switching followed by co-speciation events, highlighting the complex evolutionary dynamics within this family.}, }
@article {pmid39406878, year = {2024}, author = {Lequitte-Charransol, P and Robert, A and Jiguet, F}, title = {Increased adult movements and decreased juvenile apparent survival of urban crows during COVID-19 lockdowns.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {24135}, pmid = {39406878}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {ESOD//Minist&#xe8;re de l'&#xc9;cologie, du D&#xe9;veloppement Durable et de l'&#xc9;nergie/ ; }, mesh = {*Crows/physiology ; Animals ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/mortality/prevention &amp; control ; Humans ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation &amp; purification ; Quarantine ; Paris/epidemiology ; Urban Population ; Population Dynamics ; Cities/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {The increasing abundance of animal species thriving in urban environments is a source of conflicts with managers and users of public spaces. Although opportunistic urban species often use resources originating from human food leftovers, the potential impact of a reduction in these resources on their demography is hard to quantify. The COVID-19 epidemic, which led many countries to set up lockdowns, gave us the opportunity to estimate the impact of a drastic reduction in such food resources and human activities on the demography of an urban bird population. Based on 7 years (2015-2021) of capture-mark-recapture of carrion crows (Corvus corone) in the city of Paris, France, we used multi-state models to examine the intra-annual (3-month time steps) apparent survival and movement patterns of crows during and outside COVID-19 lockdowns. We showed that the apparent survival of juvenile carrion crows decreased down during lockdown, while adult movements increased during this period, with more adult crows moving out of the urban district. Lockdown modified the demography of this urban crow population, suggesting that the reduction in food resources was sufficient to affect fitness and reduce carrying capacity.}, }
@article {pmid39403249, year = {2024}, author = {Díaz-Rodríguez, C and Pérez-Córdoba, E}, title = {Influence of problem-solving ability and personality variables on the improvement and creativity of tactical decisions in basketball.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {15}, number = {}, pages = {1450084}, pmid = {39403249}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Basketball players are increasingly required not only to read the tactical actions that take place in a game but also to make correct tactical decisions. This includes greater creativity in the type of solutions they must provide when faced with various tactical situations. To acquire these skills, young players need training in which personality and general intelligence variables significantly influence the learning process.<br><br>METHODS: A Perceptual Tactical Training (PTT) program was implemented, correlated with the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire and the Raven's Progressive Matrices test, to observe improvements in tactical perception and decision-making among young basketball players.<br><br>RESULTS: The PTT produced significant improvements in tactical solutions and tactical perception for all players. Players who scored high in general intelligence found it easier to perceive tactical situations but struggled to generate original tactical solutions. Conversely, players with high psychoticism and high general intelligence were more capable of creating innovative tactical solutions but did not excel in perceiving tactical game situations.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of the individual differences in intelligence and personality traits among young players to enhance their tactical decision-making and creative abilities.}, }
@article {pmid39397068, year = {2024}, author = {Syama, S and Ramprabhakar, J and Anand, R and Guerrero, JM}, title = {An integrated binary metaheuristic approach in dynamic unit commitment and economic emission dispatch for hybrid energy systems.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {23964}, pmid = {39397068}, issn = {2045-2322}, abstract = {The current generation portfolio is obligated to incorporate zero-emissions energy sources, predominantly wind and solar, due to the depletion of fossil fuels and the alarming rate of global warming. In the current scenario, power engineers must devise a compromised solution that not only advocates for the adoption of renewable energy sources (RES) but also efficiently schedules all conventional power generation units to balance the increasing load demand while simultaneously minimizing fuel costs and harmful emissions that are currently addressed by Unit Commitment (UC) and Combined Economic Emission Dispatch (CEED) problem solutions. However, the integration of renewable energy resources (RES) further complicates the UC-CEED problem due to their intermittent nature. Recently, metaheuristic algorithms are acquiring momentum in resolving constrained UC-CEED problems due to their improved global solution ability, adaptability, and derivative-free construction. In this research, a computationally efficient binary hybrid version of crow search algorithm and improvised grey wolf optimization is proposed, namely Crow Search Improved Binary Grey Wolf Optimization Algorithm (CS-BIGWO) by inclusion of nonlinear control parameter, weight-based position updating, and mutation approach. Statistical results on standard mathematical functions prove the supremacy of the proposed algorithm over conventional algorithms. Further, a novel optimization strategy is devised by integrating enhanced lambda iteration with the CS-BIGWO algorithm (CS-BIGWO- λ) to solve a day-ahead UC-CEED problem of the hybrid energy system incorporating cost functions of RES. For the model, a day-ahead forecast of wind power and solar photovoltaic power is obtained by using the Levy-Flight Chaotic Whale Optimization Algorithm optimized Extreme Learning Machines(LCWOA-ELM). The proposed algorithm is tested for the UC-CEED solution of an IEEE-39 bus system with two distinct cases: (1) without RES integration and (2) with RES integration. Several independent trial runs are executed, and the performance of the algorithms is assessed based on optimal UC schedules, fuel cost, emission quantization, convergence curve, and computational time. For case 1, the proposed algorithm resulted in a percentage reduction of 0.1021% in fuel cost and 0.7995% in emission. In contrast, for test case 2, it resulted in a percentage reduction of 0.12896% in fuel cost and 0.772% in emission with the proposed algorithm. The results validate the dominance of the proposed methodology over existing methods in terms of lower fuel costs and emissions.}, }
@article {pmid39394831, year = {2025}, author = {Kruger, L and Bambino, K and Schmalenberg, K and Santhanam, U and Orentreich, D and Orentreich, C and Logerfo, J and Saliou, C}, title = {Efficacy of Topical Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate-Peptide Product Versus Fractional CO2 Laser in Facial Aging.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {24}, number = {1}, pages = {e16621}, pmid = {39394831}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Humans ; *Skin Aging/drug effects/radiation effects ; Female ; *Lasers, Gas/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; *Face ; Adult ; Treatment Outcome ; Administration, Cutaneous ; Cosmetic Techniques ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Many people are interested in addressing visible signs of aging with non-invasive cosmetic treatments. Development of effective topical products will provide options to delay or support cosmetic procedures.<br><br>AIMS: This study assessed and compared the efficacy and tolerance of a topical product used over the course of 16&#x2009;weeks to a single ablative laser treatment on women with moderate global photodamage on the face.<br><br>METHODS: Subjects in Cell 1 (Laser Cell) were treated over the entire face with a fractional CO2 laser system. Subjects in Cell 2 (Topical Serum Cell) were treated with a topical serum containing hydroxypinacolone retinoate and peptides over the entire face, twice per day for 16&#x2009;weeks. The study was composed of 71 women, with 29 in the Laser Cell (mean age 56.2) and 42 in the Topical Serum Cell (mean age 55.0), between 40 and 65&#x2009;years old. Expert grading was used to determine efficacy parameters.<br><br>RESULTS: Participants in the Topical Serum Cell achieved more significant improvement (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05) in Marionette lines, fine lines (global face), wrinkles (global face), wrinkles (crow's feet), nasolabial folds, texture, smoothness (tactile), global hyperpigmentation, lift, and photodamage compared to participants in the Laser Cell. Participants in the Topical Serum Cell achieved parity in the look of fine lines (crow's feet), forehead lines, glabella, firmness/bounce (tactile), skin tone evenness, radiance.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: While no statistically significant differences in tolerability were observed, treatment with the topical cosmetic product achieved parity or statistically better improvement in parameters compared to laser treatment at 16&#x2009;weeks.}, }
@article {pmid39390071, year = {2024}, author = {Lifshitz, H and Shnitzer-Meirovich, S and Koslovsky, M and Yozevitch, R}, title = {Exploring crystallized and fluid intelligence in down syndrome using graph theory.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {23738}, pmid = {39390071}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {*Down Syndrome ; Humans ; Male ; *Intelligence ; Female ; Adult ; Adolescent ; Young Adult ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Intelligence Tests ; Middle Aged ; Intellectual Disability ; Cognition ; }, abstract = {This cross-sectional study examined the cognitive performance of crystallized intelligence (Gc) and fluid intelligence (Gf) in 340 individuals, comparing adults (aged 22-45) to adolescents (aged 16-21) in two groups of etiologies. Down syndrome (DS) and non-specific intellectual disability (NSID). The aim was to estimate whether their cognitive performance reflected accelerated, stable, or continuous trajectories. Participants were assessed using the Vocabulary, Similarities, Block Design, and Raven Matrix tests. ANOVA analysis indicated that adults exhibited higher scores than adolescents on three of the crystallized and fluid intelligence tests, with similar trends observed in the Raven Matrix test, thus supporting the Compensation Age Theory. Participants with NSID exhibited higher scores in Vocabulary than participants with DS. Participants with DS exhibited higher scores in Block Design and Raven than participants with NSID. There was no difference between the groups in Similarities, suggesting that the verbal ability of individuals with DS is not so impaired relative to participants with NSID. Graph analysis demonstrated divergent Gc-Gf networks between the two groups of etiologies. The DS etiology revealed more coherent connections between crystallized and fluid intelligence, especially in adulthood, compared to the diffuse and absent connections seen in adults with NSID. Thus, the relative strength in Similarities and the more coherent Gc-Gf interconnections in the DS etiology suggested a more coherent and not-so-impaired profile in a clear diagnostic etiology such as DS, especially in adulthood, compared to unclear genetic etiologies such as NSID. The findings hold educational implications for adults with ID with and without Down syndrome at least until their 40's as a time for growth and development, perhaps serving as a protective factor against possible cognitive decline in the future.}, }
@article {pmid39374830, year = {2024}, author = {Gems, D and Kern, CC}, title = {Biological constraint, evolutionary spandrels and antagonistic pleiotropy.}, journal = {Ageing research reviews}, volume = {101}, number = {}, pages = {102527}, doi = {10.1016/j.arr.2024.102527}, pmid = {39374830}, issn = {1872-9649}, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Aging/genetics/physiology ; *Genetic Pleiotropy ; *Biological Evolution ; Longevity/genetics/physiology ; }, abstract = {Maximum lifespan differs greatly between species, indicating that the process of senescence is largely genetically determined. Senescence evolves in part due to antagonistic pleiotropy (AP), where selection favors gene variants that increase fitness earlier in life but promote pathology later. Identifying the biological mechanisms by which AP causes senescence is key to understanding the endogenous causes of aging and its attendant diseases. Here we argue that the frequent occurrence of AP as a property of genes reflects the presence of constraint in the biological systems that they specify. This arises particularly because the functionally interconnected nature of biological systems constrains the simultaneous optimization of coupled traits (interconnection constraints), or because individual traits cannot evolve (impossibility constraints). We present an account of aging that integrates AP and biological constraint with recent programmatic aging concepts, including costly programs, quasi-programs, hyperfunction and hypofunction. We argue that AP mechanisms of costly programs and triggered quasi-programs are consequences of constraint, in which costs resulting from hyperfunction or hypofunction cause senescent pathology. Impossibility constraint can also cause hypofunction independently of AP. We also describe how AP corresponds to Stephen Jay Gould's constraint-based concept of evolutionary spandrels, and argue that pathologies arising from AP are bad spandrels. Biological constraint is a conceptual missing link between ultimate and proximate causes of senescence, including diseases of aging.}, }
@article {pmid39372881, year = {2024}, author = {Kim, JS}, title = {Three-dimensional Analysis of Lifting Effects after High-intensity Focused Ultrasound (Ultraformer-MPT) across Seven Facial Aesthetic Units Considering SonoAnatomy.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open}, volume = {12}, number = {10}, pages = {e6203}, pmid = {39372881}, issn = {2169-7574}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This investigation delves deep into the lifting degree for each area of noninvasive facial rejuvenation through high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). The study meticulously examines the lifting effects of HIFU treatment across seven distinct facial aesthetic-units, using advanced three-dimensional scanner analysis.<br><br>METHODS: The study examined a cohort of 50 patients treated with HIFU. Pre- and immediate posttreatment evaluations were conducted using three-dimensional scanner analysis, allowing for precise quantification of lifting effects across seven aesthetic units. Treatment protocols were tailored to leverage five cartridges with micropulsed mode options, optimizing outcomes based on sonographic anatomy.<br><br>RESULTS: The forehead was lifted by 1.24&#x2009;mm; crow's feet, 2.25; malar region, 2.46; posterior cheek, 3.40; jowl, 2.90; mandible, 3.09; and neck, 3.53.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The forehead showed a lift of 1.24&#x2009;mm, attributed to the thin tissue requiring a cautious approach to avoid discomfort. A lift of 2.25&#x2009;mm in the crow's feet area demonstrated the efficacy of HIFU in addressing fine lines and wrinkles. Significant lift of 2.47&#x2009;mm in the malar region highlights HIFU's effectiveness in addressing mid-face laxity and restoring volume to the cheeks. The most substantial lift of 3.38&#x2009;mm in the posterior cheek underscores targeted energy application for enhanced lifting and contouring. Notable lifting effect of 2.90&#x2009;mm in the jowl area benefits sagging along the jawline, refining facial contour. Lift of 3.10&#x2009;mm in the mandible shows improvement of lower facial laxity, defining the jawline. The highest lift of 3.55&#x2009;mm in the neck region addresses laxity and sagging for a defined neck profile.}, }
@article {pmid39355196, year = {2024}, author = {Agarwalla, S and Chandra, B and Kundu, GK}, title = {Influence of Age and Gender on Emotional Intelligence, Intelligence Quotient, Anxiety, and Behavior of Children in a Dental Setup.}, journal = {International journal of clinical pediatric dentistry}, volume = {17}, number = {5}, pages = {518-523}, pmid = {39355196}, issn = {0974-7052}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Children's age is a significant predictor factor for their panic and conduct intraoperatively. A child's developmental stage influences their ability to handle stress in dental operations, and it seems that younger children are more anxious and have a better capacity to cope with dental procedures. Age and gender are said to have a significant influence on emotional quotient (EQ) and intelligence quotient (IQ), but the data regarding this is extremely sparse in the dental literature.<br><br>AIM: To find the impact of age and gender on EQ, IQ, panic, and conduct of children in an oral care setup.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 57 female and 50 male (total 107) children were considered participants aged 7-12 years. The study was executed in two sessions in the pediatric dentistry department. In the first session, "Bar-On emotional quotient inventory: youth version (Bar-On EQ-i: YV)" and the "Raven's colored progressive matrices (RCPM)" tests were administered to evaluate the EQ and IQ of the children, and a clinical psychologist supervised and guided the whole procedure. In the second appointment, anxiety was recorded using the "faces version of the modified child's dental anxiety scale (MCDAS(f))," whereas behavior was recorded with the "sound, eye, and motor (SEM) scale." Interpretation of data was done by statistical methods.<br><br>RESULTS: The difference in IQ scores between the groups aged 7-9 and 10-12 years was not statistically significant. There was a statistically notable difference (p-value of 0.006) in the RCPM IQ scores among male and female participants, where female participants scored better. There was a statistically insignificant variation in total EQ scores between male and female participants. Based on age and gender, a statistically insignificant variation was noted in the anxiety scores (MCDAS(f)) among participants. A statistically notable difference (p-value of 0.018) was seen between the SEM scores of the 7-9 and 10-12 years age-groups. SEM scores of male and female participants showed no significant difference.<br><br>CONCLUSION: There was no influence of age on the IQ and EQ scores of the participants. A gender difference was found in relation to the IQ scores and the intrapersonal and stress management subscales of EQ. Based on age and gender, there was a statistically nonsignificant difference between the anxiety scores (MCDAS(f)) of the participants. A statistically notable variation was seen between the SEM scores for behavior of the 7-9 and 10-12 years age-groups. Statistically insignificant variation was noted between the SEM scores of both genders.<br><br>HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Agarwalla S, Chandra B, Kundu GK. Influence of Age and Gender on Emotional Intelligence, Intelligence Quotient, Anxiety, and Behavior of Children in a Dental Setup. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(5):518-523.}, }
@article {pmid39345526, year = {2024}, author = {Shah, SS and Diamond, J and Barve, S and Cosgrove, EJ and Bowman, R and Fitzpatrick, JW and Chen, N}, title = {Lifetime fitness benefits of breeding site fidelity and low costs of inbreeding permit inbreeding tolerance in an avian cooperative breeder.}, journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1101/2024.09.21.614049}, pmid = {39345526}, issn = {2692-8205}, abstract = {Inbreeding, or breeding with close relatives, often decreases individual fitness, but mate choice in many species can increase inbreeding risk. Inbreeding is more likely in species with limited dispersal, such as cooperative breeders where non-parental individuals-often offspring from previous broods-provide parental care and frequently breed close to home. We leverage 32 years of data from a population of Florida Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens), an avian cooperative breeder, to investigate whether mate choice, and its lifetime fitness outcomes, affects inbreeding tolerance. We find that both sexes show a stronger preference for geographically closer rather than less related mates. While female-biased dispersal mitigates inbreeding risk when pairing for the first time, limited movement away from the breeding territory by both sexes for later pairings (following mate death or divorce) results in higher relatedness between mates than expected under random mating. Males paired with close relatives and females that move longer distances experience equivalently reduced lifetime reproductive success. Fitness benefits of breeding site fidelity and relatively low fitness costs of inbreeding thus permit inbreeding tolerance in Florida Scrub-Jays. Understanding how and why mate choice contributes to inbreeding is crucial for informed conservation action for endangered species like the Florida Scrub-Jay.}, }
@article {pmid39345301, year = {2024}, author = {Boadi, M and Gbedema, SY and Boakye, YD and Bayor, MT and Aboagye, EA}, title = {Wound Healing and Acute Dermal Toxicity Studies of Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) P. H. Raven (Onagraceae) in Sprague-Dawley Rats.}, journal = {Journal of tropical medicine}, volume = {2024}, number = {}, pages = {9576349}, pmid = {39345301}, issn = {1687-9686}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The aerial part of Ludwigia octovalvis has been used traditionally in some parts of Asia for the management of wounds owing to the presence of phytochemicals such as tannins, flavonoids, and triterpenoids among others. The incidence of wounds, their associated complications, and the cost of wound care are on the increase globally, therefore, the need to develop alternative wound care agents. The aim of this study was to scientifically investigate the wound healing potential of the ethanolic extract of L. octovalvis using the excision wound healing model in rats and also carry out an acute dermal toxicity investigation of the plant extract.<br><br>METHOD: A 70% ethanol extract of L. octovalvis was prepared for the wound healing activity using the excision wound healing model in Sprague-Dawley rats. Aqueous creams (1, 3, and 10%) were prepared and topically applied to the wounds once daily according to the groups of animals. The wounds were assessed for rates of wound closure on days 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11. Re-epithelialization periods were also determined. Sections of wound tissues obtained on day 13 were subjected to histological investigations. An acute dermal toxicity of the plant extract was investigated.<br><br>RESULTS: L. octovalvis treatment (1, 3, and 10%) exhibited a mean percentage wound contraction range of 85.36&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;7.22-94.14&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;2.23 on day 11. The extract exhibited re-epithelialization periods of 17.3&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;1.2, 19.8&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;2.6, and 16.0&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;1.7&#x2009;days for the 1, 3, and 10% extract creams, respectively, whereas the cream-only and 1% silver sulfadiazine treatments resulted in a re-epithelialization period of greater than 28&#x2009;days. Histopathological investigation revealed enhanced fibroblast infiltration and collagen deposition in the treatment groups. No adverse reaction was observed in the acute dermal toxicity study.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Extract of L. octovalvis exhibited wound healing by enhancing wound contraction, re-epithelialization, fibroblast infiltration, and collagen deposition at the wound site. The extract did not exhibit any toxic reaction in the acute dermal toxicity study.}, }
@article {pmid39344034, year = {2024}, author = {Rengot, J and Prestat-Marquis, E and Aime, I and Campos, JR and Camel, E and François, G}, title = {SCAWA scales: A new digital tool for wrinkles clinical grading based on AI.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1111/ics.12995}, pmid = {39344034}, issn = {1468-2494}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Clinical assessment of wrinkle depth is essential for efficacy evaluations of anti-ageing products. Standardized photographic scales, representative of different wrinkle depths are often used by experts to assign subjects reliable grades. These tools, based on real pictures, usually exist as hard copies (printed books or sheets) for in vivo gradings. Our project aims at developing a methodology to create digital standardized computer-generated scales, allowing photograph and real-life gradings, and providing raters with greater comfort, accessibility, and flexibility in their construction, thanks to the artificial intelligence significative contribution.<br><br>METHODS: A completely new approach, based on machine learning, allows the creation of Standardized ColorFace&#xae; AI-based Wrinkle Assessment (SCAWA) scales. Instead of using real photographs, the scale images are computer-generated. A generative adversarial network (GAN) is trained to create realistic wrinkle samples that are finely controllable by exploring the GAN latent space. Finally, the scale images are selected among hundreds of artificial images depicting natural wrinkle appearances, such as the illustrated wrinkle evolution is well-detailed (small gaps between grades), morphologically stable, and mathematically linear according to a criterion of wrinkle conspicuous depth.<br><br>RESULTS: The created 12-point scale for crow's feet wrinkle evaluation on ColorFace&#xae; pictures is proven to be realistic, linear, and robustly and accurately usable for photograph assessments. The scale coherence in terms of image ranking has been validated, as well as its reliability and acceptability in real conditions of use. Additionally, the wrinkle grades obtained by the SCAWA scale are well correlated (R&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.94) with the ones obtained by the Skin Aging Atlas on the same pictures. The AI methodology and digital format brought also interesting side results, such as an enhanced harmonization between experts and a higher representativeness, that is, a decrease of out-of-range pictures.<br><br>CONCLUSION: SCAWA scale makes the most of machine learning to provide an innovative digital tool to ease wrinkles in visual assessment of pictures, while optimizing linearity, homogeneity, and accuracy aspects. The experts' enthusiastic feedback about the scale format and quality is promising regarding the adaptation of the methodology to other signs and a larger distribution of this tool in the market of cosmetic product efficacy assessment.}, }
@article {pmid39328063, year = {2024}, author = {Romero, FG and Beaudry, FEG and Hovmand Warner, E and Nguyen, TN and Fitzpatrick, JW and Chen, N}, title = {A new high-quality genome assembly and annotation for the threatened Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens).}, journal = {G3 (Bethesda, Md.)}, volume = {14}, number = {12}, pages = {}, pmid = {39328063}, issn = {2160-1836}, support = {R35 GM133412/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {The Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens), a Federally Threatened, cooperatively-breeding bird, is an emerging model system in evolutionary biology and ecology. Extensive individual-based monitoring and genetic sampling for decades has yielded a wealth of data, allowing for the detailed study of social behavior, demography, and population genetics of this natural population. Here, we report a linkage map and a chromosome-level genome assembly and annotation for a female Florida Scrub-Jay made with long-read sequencing technology, chromatin conformation data, and the linkage map. We constructed a linkage map comprising 4,468 SNPs that had 34 linkage groups and a total sex-averaged autosomal genetic map length of 2446.78 cM. The new genome assembly is 1.33 Gb in length, consisting of 33 complete or near-complete autosomes and the sex chromosomes (ZW). This highly contiguous assembly has an NG50 of 68 Mb and a Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs (BUSCO) completeness score of 97.1% with respect to the Aves database. The annotated gene set has a BUSCO transcriptome completeness score of 95.5% and 17,964 identified protein-coding genes, 92.5% of which have associated functional annotations. This new, high-quality genome assembly and linkage map of the Florida Scrub-Jay provides valuable tools for future research into the evolutionary dynamics of small, natural populations of conservation concern.}, }
@article {pmid39324792, year = {2024}, author = {Gallichotte, EN and Fitzmeyer, EA and Williams, L and Spangler, MC and Bosco-Lauth, AM and Ebel, GD}, title = {WNV and SLEV coinfection in avian and mosquito hosts: impact on viremia, antibody responses, and vector competence.}, journal = {Journal of virology}, volume = {98}, number = {10}, pages = {e0104124}, pmid = {39324792}, issn = {1098-5514}, support = {T32-AI162691//HHS | National Institutes of Health (NIH)/ ; BII 2021909, BII 2213854//National Science Foundation (NSF)/ ; AI067380//HHS | National Institutes of Health (NIH)/ ; T32 AI162691/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI067380/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *West Nile virus/immunology ; *West Nile Fever/virology/transmission/veterinary/immunology ; *Coinfection/virology/immunology ; *Culex/virology ; *Mosquito Vectors/virology ; *Viremia/virology ; *Encephalitis Virus, St. Louis/immunology ; *Antibodies, Viral/blood/immunology ; *Bird Diseases/virology/transmission/immunology ; Encephalitis, St. Louis/virology/transmission ; Virus Replication ; Songbirds/virology ; Antibody Formation ; Birds/virology ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) and St. Louis encephalitis virus (SLEV) are closely related flaviviruses that can cause encephalitis in humans and related diseases in animals. In nature, both are transmitted by Culex, with wild birds, including jays, sparrows, and robins, serving as vertebrate hosts. WNV and SLEV circulate in the same environments and have recently caused concurrent disease outbreaks in humans. The extent that coinfection of mosquitoes or birds may alter transmission dynamics, however, is not well characterized. We therefore sought to determine if coinfection alters infection kinetics and virus levels in birds and infection rates in mosquitoes. Accordingly, American robins (Turdus migratorius), two species of mosquitoes, and vertebrate and invertebrate cells were infected with WNV and/or SLEV to assess how simultaneous exposure may alter infection outcomes. There was variable impact of coinfection in vertebrate cells, with some evidence that SLEV can suppress WNV replication. However, robins had comparable viremia and antibody responses regardless of coinfection. Conversely, in Culex cells and mosquitoes, we saw a minimal impact of simultaneous exposure to both viruses on replication, with comparable infection, dissemination, and transmission rates in singly infected and coinfected mosquitoes. Importantly, while WNV and SLEV levels in coinfected mosquito midguts were positively correlated, we saw no correlation between them in salivary glands and saliva. These results reveal that while coinfection can occur in both avian and mosquito hosts, the viruses minimally impact one another. The potential for coinfection to alter virus population structure or the likelihood of rare genotypes emerging remains unknown.IMPORTANCEWest Nile virus (WNV) and St. Louis encephalitis virus (SLEV) are closely related viruses that are transmitted by the same mosquitoes and infect the same birds in nature. Both viruses circulate in the same regions and have caused concurrent outbreaks in humans. It is possible that mosquitoes, birds, and/or humans could be infected with both WNV and SLEV simultaneously, as has been observed with Zika, chikungunya, and dengue viruses. To study the impact of coinfection, we experimentally infected vertebrate and invertebrate cells, American robins, and two Culex species with WNV and/or SLEV. Robins were efficiently coinfected, with no impact of coinfection on virus levels or immune response. Similarly, in mosquitoes, coinfection did not impact infection rates, and mosquitoes could transmit both WNV and SLEV together. These results reveal that WNV and SLEV coinfection in birds and mosquitoes can occur in nature, which may impact public health and human disease risk.}, }
@article {pmid39315189, year = {2024}, author = {Huang, J and Zhang, X and Chang, Y}, title = {Effectiveness and safety of botulinum toxin type A combined with blepharoplasty in treating sagging skin around the eyes.}, journal = {Heliyon}, volume = {10}, number = {18}, pages = {e37407}, pmid = {39315189}, issn = {2405-8440}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Researchers looked into the safety and effectiveness of blepharoplasty in conjunction with botulinum toxin type A for the treatment of periocular skin laxity.<br><br>METHODS: 92 patients who received treatment at our institution for periocular skin laxity were chosen as research subjects. Their admission time ranged from May 2020 to December 2022. Using various therapy modalities, the patients were split into two groups: an observational team (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;46) and a controlling team (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;46). They were respectively given blepharoplasty treatment intervention and botulinum toxin type A combined with blepharoplasty treatment intervention. Eyelid bags, crow's feet, skin radiance and aesthetic results, quality of life were analyzed before and after the intervention, and physician and patient' satisfaction with the results were compared.<br><br>RESULTS: 95.65&#xa0;% was the effective rate of the observed group, which was 71.74&#xa0;% compared with the control group, and significantly increased (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05). After interference, the score, aesthetic effect and quality of life grade of skin gloss, crow's feet and eyelid bags were significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05). The complication rate in the observation group was 6.52&#xa0;% was significantly higher than 30.43&#xa0;% in the control group (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05). The patient satisfaction of the observation group was 93.48&#xa0;%, significantly greater than the control group 69.57&#xa0;% (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05); the customer satisfaction of the observation group was 95.65&#xa0;%, which was significantly higher than the control group 82.61&#xa0;% (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The combination of type A botulinum toxin and eye bag plastic surgery has a good effect on improving skin laxity around the eyes. It can significantly reduce eyelid bags and crow's feet, improve skin gloss, increase aesthetic effects, and comprehensively restore vitality to aged eye skin, improve life quality, and have high doctor-client contentment and safety.}, }
@article {pmid39313949, year = {2025}, author = {Choi, SY and Koh, YG and Yoo, KH and Han, HS and Seok, J and Kim, BJ}, title = {A Randomized, Participant- and Evaluator-Blinded, Matched-Pair, Prospective Study Comparing the Safety and Efficacy Between Polycaprolactone and Polynucleotide Fillers in the Correction of Crow's Feet.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {24}, number = {1}, pages = {e16576}, pmid = {39313949}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//This work was funded by DexLevo, Inc./ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Polyesters/adverse effects/administration &amp; dosage ; *Dermal Fillers/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; Prospective Studies ; Female ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; *Cosmetic Techniques/adverse effects ; Male ; *Polynucleotides/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Single-Blind Method ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Dermal fillers have gained widespread popularity for facial cosmetic enhancement and anti-aging treatments. Recently, polycaprolactone (PCL) and polynucleotides (PN) fillers have emerged as promising options owing to their safety and long-lasting effects.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of a novel PCL-based dermal filler (DLMR01) with purified PN filler (RJR: Rejuran) in correcting crow's feet wrinkles.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: A randomized, evaluator-blinded, prospective split-face study was conducted with 218 healthy Asian participants. The primary outcome was in the improvement rate of the Crow's Feet Grading Scale (CFGS) at rest after 12&#x2009;weeks. Secondary outcomes included the improvement rate of the CFGS at expression and rest at earlier time points, changes in CFGS, and the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) assessment.<br><br>RESULTS: The results showed that DLMR01 was not inferior to RJR in improving crow's feet wrinkles, with a significantly higher CGFS improvement rate at week 12. Both fillers demonstrated good safety profiles, with mild and tolerable adverse events. No serious adverse events were reported during the study period.<br><br>CONCLUSION: DLMR01, a PCL-based dermal filler, showed effectiveness and safety in improving wrinkles described as crow's feet. The study suggests that DLMR01 could be a promising option for noninvasive anti-aging treatments.}, }
@article {pmid39307930, year = {2024}, author = {Micula, A and Holmer, E and Ning, R and Danielsson, H}, title = {Relationships Between Hearing Status, Cognitive Abilities, and Reliance on Visual and Contextual Cues.}, journal = {Ear and hearing}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {39307930}, issn = {1538-4667}, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Visual and contextual cues facilitate speech recognition in suboptimal listening conditions (e.g., background noise, hearing loss, hearing aid signal processing). Moreover, successful speech recognition in challenging listening conditions is linked to cognitive abilities such as working memory and fluid intelligence. However, it is unclear which cognitive abilities facilitate the use of visual and contextual cues in individuals with normal hearing and hearing aid users. The first aim was to investigate whether individuals with hearing aid users rely on visual and contextual cues to a higher degree than individuals with normal hearing in a speech-in-noise recognition task. The second aim was to investigate whether working memory and fluid intelligence are associated with the use of visual and contextual cues in these groups.<br><br>DESIGN: Groups of participants with normal hearing and hearing aid users with bilateral, symmetrical mild to severe sensorineural hearing loss were included (n = 169 per group). The Samuelsson and R&#xf6;nnberg task was administered to measure speech recognition in speech-shaped noise. The task consists of an equal number of sentences administered in the auditory and audiovisual modalities, as well as without and with contextual cues (visually presented word preceding the sentence, e.g.,: "Restaurant"). The signal to noise ratio was individually set to 1 dB below the level obtained for 50% correct speech recognition in the hearing-in-noise test administered in the auditory modality. The Reading Span test was used to measure working memory capacity and the Raven test was used to measure fluid intelligence. The data were analyzed using linear mixed-effects modeling.<br><br>RESULTS: Both groups exhibited significantly higher speech recognition performance when visual and contextual cues were available. Although the hearing aid users performed significantly worse compared to those with normal hearing in the auditory modality, both groups reached similar performance levels in the audiovisual modality. In addition, a significant positive relationship was found between the Raven test score and speech recognition performance only for the hearing aid users in the audiovisual modality. There was no significant relationship between Reading Span test score and performance.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Both participants with normal hearing and hearing aid users benefitted from contextual cues, regardless of cognitive abilities. The hearing aid users relied on visual cues to compensate for the perceptual difficulties, reaching a similar performance level as the participants with normal hearing when visual cues were available, despite worse performance in the auditory modality. It is important to note that the hearing aid users who had higher fluid intelligence were able to capitalize on visual cues more successfully than those with poorer fluid intelligence, resulting in better speech-in-noise recognition performance.}, }
@article {pmid39282745, year = {2024}, author = {Karaavci, FA and Dortbudak, MB and Demircioglu, M and Kocyigit, A}, title = {Investigation of Glandula Uropygialis in Different Avian Species Using Morphometric and Histological Methods.}, journal = {Anatomia, histologia, embryologia}, volume = {53}, number = {5}, pages = {e13107}, doi = {10.1111/ahe.13107}, pmid = {39282745}, issn = {1439-0264}, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Male ; *Birds/anatomy &amp; histology ; Feathers/anatomy &amp; histology ; Geese/anatomy &amp; histology ; Columbidae/anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to identify the glandula uropygialis's macroanatomical and histological structure in male and female birds (stork, goose, eagle, pigeon, crow and sparrowhawk) that belong to different populations. A total of 58 specimens were used in the study. The study materials were delivered to our laboratory by nature conservation and national parks, and no animals were euthanised for this study. The longitudinal and transversal lengths, dorsoventral heights and feather length of the glandula uropygialis and papilla uropygialis were measured with a digital calliper. Haematoxylin-eosin and Masson trichrome staining were performed for histological examinations. The shape of the glandula uropygialis was found to be pear-shaped in pigeons and sparrowhawks, heart-shaped in geese, kidney-shaped in eagles and oval-fascule-shaped in storks. In the crow, the shape of the glandula uropygialis was different from the other species in that it was located dorso-caudally. Histomorphological examination of the glands of these species revealed that the gland generally consisted of two lobes, right and left, surrounded by connective tissue from the outside. The parenchyma of these lobes consisted of tubulo-alveolar secretory glands with a radial arrangement from the periphery to the centre. The glands within the lobes differed from the periphery to the centre and although the general histomorphological appearance was similar between bird species, some differences were observed between species. Similar stromal structure was observed in all bird species evaluated in the study. However, the reticular connective tissue forming the roof of the gland was found to be more developed in pigeons, especially in Masson's trichroma staining. The degenerative layer in the glands was more prominent in the eagle, followed by the goose and crow. Although a common general histological structure was observed among bird species, simple histomorphological differences were found between these formations, but no differences were found between the sexes. The results obtained will be compared with the findings of the aves class and will provide a data source for this special gland specific to birds. It is thought that the results obtained may help to determine the functional properties of the gland and contribute to the science of ornithology.}, }
@article {pmid39282681, year = {2024}, author = {Ayoub, AEA and Aljughaiman, AM and Alghawi, MA and Morsy, A and Omara, EMN and Abdulla Alabbasi, AM and Renzulli, JS}, title = {Validation of Hamdan intelligence scale in upper elementary grades using the Rasch model: exploratory study.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {15}, number = {}, pages = {1407734}, pmid = {39282681}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Hamdan Intelligence Scale (HIS) is the first intelligence scale that has been developed and normed in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This study aimed to examine the refinement, validity, and reliability of HIS in upper elementary grades using the Rasch model. A total of 4,301 students (34.3% Male; 65.7% Female) from grade 4 to 6 (32.1% grade 4; 33.7% grade 5; 34.2% grade 6) were administered to the HIS. The confirmatory factor analysis was first conducted to verify the fitness of the one-factor model of the HIS. The results of validity showed strong correlation coefficients between the HIS and the Aurora-g battery (0.83) and the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM; 0.86). Moreover, the results of the developmental trends demonstrated that raw scores of the HIS increase with age and grade relatively constantly across composite scores. Unidimensionality was confirmed through the Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Principal Component Analysis of Residuals (PCAR). The low eigenvalues of the first contrast were below 2, and additionally, the infit and outfit mean squares ranged from 0.88 to 1.14 and 0.84 to 1.14. Rasch's person reliability result of 0.62 was acceptable reliability. The results provided strong support for the validity and reliability of using the Hamdan Intelligence Scale in the UAE environment.}, }
@article {pmid39275229, year = {2024}, author = {Liu, S and Yu, X and Xing, Z and Ding, P and Cui, Y and Liu, H}, title = {The Impact of Exposure to Iodine and Fluorine in Drinking Water on Thyroid Health and Intelligence in School-Age Children: A Cross-Sectional Investigation.}, journal = {Nutrients}, volume = {16}, number = {17}, pages = {}, pmid = {39275229}, issn = {2072-6643}, support = {82173641//National Nature Science Foundation of China/ ; TJWJ2022MS045//The Scientific and Technological Project of Tianjin health/ ; TJSQNYXXR-D2-151//Tianjin high-level personnel training program/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Child ; *Iodine/urine/deficiency ; Male ; Female ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Fluorine ; *Intelligence/drug effects ; *Drinking Water/chemistry/analysis ; *Thyroid Gland/drug effects ; China ; Thyroid Hormones/blood ; Adolescent ; Intelligence Tests ; }, abstract = {Iodine and fluorine, as halogen elements, are often coexisting in water environments, with nearly 200 million people suffering from fluorosis globally, and, in 11 countries and territories, adolescents have iodine intakes higher than that required for the prevention of iodine deficiency disorders. It has been suggested that excess iodine and/or fluorine can affect thyroid health and intellectual development, especially in children, but their combined effect has been less studied in this population. This study investigated 399 school-age children in Tianjin, China, collected drinking water samples from areas where the school-age children lived, and grouped the respondents according to iodine and fluorine levels. Thyroid health was measured using thyroid hormone levels, thyroid volume, and the presence of thyroid nodules; intelligence quotient (IQ) was assessed using the Raven's Progressive Matrices (CRT) test; and monoamine neurotransmitter levels were used to explore the potential relationship between thyroid health and intelligence. Multiple linear regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analyses showed that iodine and fluorine were positively correlated with thyroid volume and the incidence of thyroid nodules in school-age children, and negatively correlated with IQ; similar results were obtained in the secondary subgroups based on urinary iodine and urinary fluoride levels. Interaction analyses revealed a synergistic effect of iodine and fluorine. A pathway analysis showed that iodine and fluorine were negatively associated with the secretion of free triiodothyronine (FT3) and free tetraiodothyronine (FT4), which in turn were negatively associated with the secretion of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Iodine and fluorine may affect IQ in school-aged children through the above pathways that affect thyroid hormone secretion; of these, FT3 and TSH were negatively correlated with IQ, whereas FT4 was positively correlated with IQ. The relationship between thyroid hormones and monoamine neurotransmitters may involve the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis, with FT4 hormone concentrations positively correlating with dopamine (DA), norepinephrine (NE), and 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HT) concentrations, and FT3 hormone concentrations positively correlating with DA concentrations. Monoamine neurotransmitters may play a mediating role in the effects of iodine and fluoride on intelligence in schoolchildren. However, this study has some limitations, as the data were derived from a cross-sectional study in Tianjin, China, and no attention was paid to the reciprocal effects of iodine and fluorine at different doses on thyroid health and intelligence in schoolchildren in other regions.}, }
@article {pmid39270252, year = {2024}, author = {Zhu, H and Fang, Y and Wu, J and Wang, Z and Li, J and Cheng, X and Ji, H and Su, Y and Shieh, W}, title = {Narrow-bandwidth silicon photonic CROW filter for carrier-extracted self-coherent (CESC) detection.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {49}, number = {18}, pages = {5151-5154}, doi = {10.1364/OL.536778}, pmid = {39270252}, issn = {1539-4794}, abstract = {In this Letter, we report a second-order silicon photonic (SiP) coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW) filter with an ultra-narrow 10-dB bandwidth of 1.75 GHz and a high extinction ratio (ER) of ∼50 dB. By utilizing this CROW filter, we demonstrated an innovative self-coherent detection, called carrier-extracted self-coherent (CESC) detection. By effectively suppressing signal components with the narrow-bandwidth CROW, full-field recovery can be achieved without expensive coherent lasers and sophisticated iteration algorithms. The performance of the CROW filter-based CESC system was further experimentally verified by retrieving 100 Gb/s QPSK signals.}, }
@article {pmid39263731, year = {2025}, author = {Hu, B and Wang, J and Wang, Y and Li, Y and Wang, B and Xiang, C and Xing, Y and Han, S and Yuan, G and He, H}, title = {The First Report of Sphaerirostris picae Infection in the Oriental Magpie (Pica serica) in Beijing, China.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {25}, number = {1}, pages = {21-25}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2023.0101}, pmid = {39263731}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Animals ; Beijing/epidemiology ; *Phylogeny ; *Bird Diseases/parasitology/epidemiology ; *Passeriformes/parasitology ; China/epidemiology ; Trematode Infections/veterinary/epidemiology/parasitology ; }, abstract = {Background: Sphaerirostris picae is a parasitic species known for its ability to infect and transmit between hosts in the gastrointestinal tracts of wild avian species. However, there is limited information on its presence and impact on urban avian populations, particularly in China. Materials and Methods: In this study, morphological observations were conducted to detect the presence of Sphaerirostris sp. within the intestinal tract of the Oriental Magpie (Pica serica) collected in Beijing, China. Further confirmation of the parasite's identity was achieved through phylogenetic analysis using COX1 gene sequencing to compare with previously documented Sphaerirostris picae isolates. Results: The morphological and molecular analyses confirmed the presence of Sphaerirostris picae in the Oriental Magpie. Phylogenetic analysis indicated a close relationship with known Sphaerirostris picae isolates. This represents the first reported case of Sphaerirostris picae infection in magpies from Beijing, China. Conclusion: The findings highlight the potential health hazards posed by Sphaerirostris picae to urban avian populations and public health. The study suggests that additional research and surveillance efforts are necessary to better understand the risks associated with this parasite and to develop effective mitigation strategies.}, }
@article {pmid39261348, year = {2024}, author = {Koçak, HK}, title = {The effect of cognitive intervention program on intelligence scores in preschool.}, journal = {Cognitive processing}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {39261348}, issn = {1612-4790}, abstract = {Dynamic assessment is an approach that aims to improve student performance through interventions. One of the important application areas of dynamic assessment is the assessment of intelligence. Within the scope of the study, after a Cognitive intervention program (CIP) was developed, its effects on intelligence scores were examined with a quasi-experimental research method. The CIP was prepared by adopting a dynamic assessment approach to improve the performance of students with expert support. This improvement would be provided by the clues and feedback given during the intervention within the scope of the CIP. The sample of the study included 173 students in the 5-6 age group (83 experimental group, 90 control group). The CIP developed by the researcher consisted of 54 worksheets and was applied to the experimental group for 9 weeks. The implementation of the worksheets was supervised by classroom teachers. The digital application of the Anadolu-Sak Intelligence Scale (d-ASIS) and Raven's colored progressive matrices (RCPM) were applied to both the experimental and control groups as pretests and posttests. The increases in the intelligence scores of the experimental and control groups were analyzed by MANOVA. The analysis showed that the intelligence levels of the experimental group increased significantly more than the control group in terms of both d-ASIS and RCPM total gain scores (posttest to pretest). This result indicated that the CIP, which was developed by adopting a dynamic assessment approach, supported cognitive development.}, }
@article {pmid39260852, year = {2024}, author = {Chugh, Y and Sharma, S and Guinness, L and Sharma, D and Garg, B and Mehndiratta, A and Prinja, S}, title = {Establishing national hospital costing systems: insights from the qualitative assessment of cost surveillance pilot in Indian hospitals.}, journal = {BMJ open}, volume = {14}, number = {9}, pages = {e082965}, pmid = {39260852}, issn = {2044-6055}, mesh = {Humans ; India ; *Qualitative Research ; Pilot Projects ; *Hospital Costs ; Interviews as Topic ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The Indian Government launched Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), the world's largest health insurance scheme, in 2018. To reform pricing and gather evidence on healthcare costs, a hospital cost-surveillance pilot was initiated among PM-JAY empanelled hospitals. We analysed the process and challenges from both healthcare providers and payer agency's perspectives and offer recommendations for implementing similar systems in lower- and middle-income countries.<br><br>DESIGN: We employed an open-ended, descriptive and qualitative study design using in-depth interviews (IDI) as the data collection strategy.<br><br>SETTINGS: The interviews were conducted in both virtual and face-to-face modes depending on the convenience of the participants. The IDIs for the National Health Authority (NHA) officials and all providers in Kerala were conducted virtually, while face-to-face interviews were conducted and in Haryana and Chhattisgarh.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: Staff from 21 hospitals in three states (Haryana, Chhattisgarh and Kerala), including officials from State Health Agency (n=5) and NHA (n=3) were interviewed.<br><br>RESULTS: The findings highlight significant challenges in reporting cost data at the hospital level. These include a shortage of trained staff, leading to difficulties in collecting comprehensive and high-quality data. Additionally, the data collection process is resource-intensive and time-consuming, putting strain on limited capacity. Operational issues with transaction management system, such as speed, user-friendliness and frequent page expirations, also pose obstacles. Finally, current patient records data has gaps, in terms of quantity and quality, to be directly put to use for pricing.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Accurate cost data is vital for health policy decisions. Capacity building across healthcare levels is needed for precise cost collection. Integration into digital infrastructure is key to avoid burdening providers and ensure quality data capture.}, }
@article {pmid39257567, year = {2024}, author = {Ham, JR and Pellis, SM and Pellis, VC}, title = {Oppositions, joints, and targets: the attractors that are the glue of social interactions.}, journal = {Frontiers in behavioral neuroscience}, volume = {18}, number = {}, pages = {1451283}, pmid = {39257567}, issn = {1662-5153}, abstract = {Social interactions are often analyzed by scoring segments of predefined behavior and then statistically assessing numerical and sequential patterns to identify the structure of the encounters. However, this approach can miss the dynamics of the animals' relationship over the course of the encounter, one that often involves invariant bonds, say a nose-to-nose orientation, with many different movements performed by both partners acting to counteract each other's attempts to break or maintain the relationship. Moreover, these invariant bonds can switch from one configuration to another during an interaction, leading from one stable configuration to another. It is this stepwise sequence of configurational stabilities that lead to functional outcomes, such as mating, aggression, or predation. By focusing on the sequence of invariant relational configurations, the deep structure of interactions can be discerned. This deep structure can then be used to differentiate between compensatory movements, no matter how seemingly stereotyped they may appear, from movement patterns which are restricted to a particular form when more than one option is available. A dynamic perspective requires suitable tools for analysis, and such tools are highlighted as needed in describing particular interactions.}, }
@article {pmid39253095, year = {2024}, author = {d' Isa, R and Parsons, MH and Chrzanowski, M and Bebas, P and Stryjek, R}, title = {Catch me if you can: free-living mice show a highly flexible dodging behaviour suggestive of intentional tactical deception.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {11}, number = {7}, pages = {231692}, pmid = {39253095}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {Intentional tactical deception, the employment of a tactic to intentionally deceive another animal, is a complex behaviour based on higher-order cognition, that has rarely been documented outside of primates and corvids. New laboratory-to-field assays, however, provide the opportunity to investigate such behaviour among free-living mice. In the present study, we placed laboratory-style test chambers with a single entrance near a forest outside Warsaw, where we observed the social interactions of two territorial murids, black-striped and yellow-necked mice, under food competition for seven months. Notably, among the social interactions, we video-recorded 21 instances of deceptive pursuer evasion. In the most obvious cases, an individual inside the chamber, to avoid an incoming mouse, hid by the chamber opening (the only means to enter or exit), paused until the pursuer entered and passed by, and then exploited the distraction of the back-turned pursuer by fleeing through the opening in a direction opposite to the one the pursuer came from. This deceptive dodging is the first evidence of a behaviour suggestive of intentional tactical deception among mice. As such, this deceptive behaviour may be of interest not only for rodent psychology but also, more generally, for the fields of non-human intentionality and theory of mind.}, }
@article {pmid39252993, year = {2024}, author = {Prinja, S and Dixit, J and Nimesh, R and Garg, B and Khurana, R and Paliwal, A and Aggarwal, AK}, title = {Impact of health benefit package policy interventions on service utilisation under government-funded health insurance in Punjab, India: analysis of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY).}, journal = {The Lancet regional health. Southeast Asia}, volume = {28}, number = {}, pages = {100462}, pmid = {39252993}, issn = {2772-3682}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The design of health benefits package (HBP), and its associated payment and pricing system, is central to the performance of government-funded health insurance programmes. We evaluated the impact of revision in HBP within India's Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) on provider behaviour, manifesting in terms of utilisation of services.<br><br>METHODS: We analysed the data on 1.35 million hospitalisation claims submitted by all the 886 (222 government and 664 private) empanelled hospitals in state of Punjab, from August 2019 to December 2022, to assess the change in utilisation from HBP 1.0 to HBP 2.0. The packages were stratified based on the nature of revision introduced in HBP 2.0, i.e., change in nomenclature, construct, price, or a combination of these. Data from National Health System Cost Database on cost of each of the packages was used to determine the cost-price differential for each package during HBP 1.0 and 2.0 respectively. A dose-response relationship was also evaluated, based on the multiplicity of revision type undertaken, or based on extent of price correction done. Change in the number of monthly claims, and the number of monthly claims per package was computed for each package category using an appropriate seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA) time series model.<br><br>FINDINGS: Overall, we found that the HBP revision led to a positive impact on utilisation of services. While changes in HBP nomenclature and construct had a positive effect, incorporating price corrections further accentuated the impact. The pricing reforms highly impacted those packages which were originally significantly under-priced. However, we did not find statistically significant dose-response relationship based on extent of price correction. Thirdly, the overall impact of HBP revision was similar in public and private hospitals.<br><br>INTERPRETATION: Our paper demonstrates the significant positive impact of PM-JAY HBP revisions on utilisation. HBP revisions need to be undertaken with the anticipation of its long-term intended effects.<br><br>FUNDING: Deutsche Gesellschaft f&#xfc;r Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).}, }
@article {pmid39241525, year = {2024}, author = {Shichijo, T and Ikeda, T and Higashide, D and Omori, A and Suzuki, T and Suzuki, M}, title = {Quantification of wildlife visits to pig farms via camera traps in Japan.}, journal = {Preventive veterinary medicine}, volume = {232}, number = {}, pages = {106318}, doi = {10.1016/j.prevetmed.2024.106318}, pmid = {39241525}, issn = {1873-1716}, mesh = {Animals ; Japan ; *Animals, Wild ; Swine ; Birds ; Mammals ; Sus scrofa ; Photography ; Animal Husbandry/methods/instrumentation ; Farms ; }, abstract = {Infectious diseases in livestock not only cause significant economic losses but also affect food security. Although wildlife may be involved in these infectious diseases by serving as reservoirs, research has primarily focused on livestock and related species. Moreover, while these species represent a potential threat in wildlife-borne infectious diseases, comprehensive surveys of the presence of various species are limited. In this study, we aimed to quantitatively investigate the occurrence of various mammals and birds at three pig farms in Japan. We conducted camera trap surveys from October 15, 2020, to March 24, 2022, and determined the relative abundance index inside and outside the sanitary control zone. Wild boar (Sus scrofa), sika deer (Cervus nippon), and Japanese serow (Capricornis crispus) were photographed only outside the sanitary control zone. In contrast, small and medium-sized mammals, such as feral cats (Felis catus), raccoons (Procyon lotor), and rodent species (Muridae), and birds, such as the rufous oriental turtle dove (Streptopelia orientalis) and crows of the genus Corvus, were photographed both inside and outside the sanitary control zone. This comprehensive quantitative evidence suggests that various mammals and birds may be in indirect contact with livestock, highlighting the need to improve biosecurity at livestock farms. Moreover, while fences are effective against large mammals, they are inefficient against small to medium-sized mammals and birds. Therefore, the results of this study provide important insights into enhancing biosecurity on livestock farms by strengthening physical fencing, disinfecting clothing and equipment, and complying with standards of hygiene management.}, }
@article {pmid39240772, year = {2024}, author = {Yonemoto, G and Cheung, TP and Vyce, SD and Gazes, MI}, title = {Vacuum-Assisted Eggshell-Type Bone Debridement with Implantation of Antibiotic-Impregnated Bone Substitute for Treatment of Calcaneal Osteomyelitis with Subsequent Charcot's Reconstruction: A Case Report.}, journal = {Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association}, volume = {114}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.7547/23-092}, pmid = {39240772}, issn = {1930-8264}, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Middle Aged ; *Osteomyelitis/surgery/etiology ; *Calcaneus/surgery ; *Debridement/methods ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use/administration &amp; dosage ; *Bone Substitutes/therapeutic use ; Arthropathy, Neurogenic/surgery ; Calcium Sulfate/therapeutic use ; Plastic Surgery Procedures/methods ; Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy/methods ; }, abstract = {Charcot's neuroarthropathy complicated by calcaneal osteomyelitis can be difficult to treat. Various surgical techniques describe how to manage these conditions. Eggshell-type debridement with application of antibiotic-impregnated bone substitute is a viable option that eliminates infected bone and allows staged reconstructive surgery. A 50-year-old woman with right midfoot Charcot's neuroarthropathy presented with osteomyelitis of the cuboid and fourth and fifth metatarsal bases after resection and failed antibiotic therapy. The patient eventually developed adductovarus, septic shock, and hematogenous osteomyelitis of the calcaneus, navicular, and lateral cuneiform. Vacuum-assisted eggshell-type debridement was performed, and the calcaneal defect was filled with antibiotic-impregnated calcium sulfate and calcium phosphate. Eight weeks after the initial surgery, the infection resolved; however, the patient had trouble walking. She underwent staged Charcot's reconstructive surgery with application of a dynamic multiplanar external fixator with gradual deformity and split-thickness skin graft to cover the residual plantar lateral foot wound. The second stage included septic fusion of the midfoot and subtalar joint from the frame. Twelve weeks postoperatively, radiographic union was achieved, the external fixator was removed, and the patient demonstrated a plantigrade foot. She was transitioned to a total-contact cast and allowed to bear weight as tolerated. Eighteen months after the initial procedure, the patient is wound-free and weightbearing in a CROW boot. This innovative eggshell-type debridement technique aspirates osteomyelitic cancellous bone while preserving cortical bone. It can be particularly useful in hematogenous osteomyelitis, where cortical integrity is not breached, or in situations where there is minimal cortical involvement. Specifically preserving the calcaneus, a major weightbearing bone, permits subsequent reconstructive surgical planning. At 18 months, there were no signs of osteomyelitis recurrence.}, }
@article {pmid39234642, year = {2024}, author = {Hsu, WY and Hu, SW and Yen, CE}, title = {The relationship between the food intake frequency, weight status and intelligence in school children.}, journal = {Nutrition and health}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {2601060241277579}, doi = {10.1177/02601060241277579}, pmid = {39234642}, issn = {0260-1060}, abstract = {This study aimed to explore the relationship between food intake frequency, weight status, and intelligence among school children. A cross-sectional study involved 562 children (aged 6.3-12.7 years) randomly selected from five elementary schools in Taichung City, Taiwan. Demographic information was collected, and the children's body weight and height were measured to calculate their body mass index. A food frequency questionnaire assessed the participating children's dietary habits. Intelligence quotient scores were evaluated using Raven's colored progress matrices for first and second graders, and Raven's standard progressive matrices for third to sixth graders. This study found that there was no significant relationship in intelligence quotient scores between gender, birth order groups, and weight status. The higher consumption of pork liver, hamburgers, fruit juices, and the Taiwanese snack "Science Noodles" was associated with lower intelligence quotient scores among school children.}, }
@article {pmid39228068, year = {2024}, author = {Forbes, SL and Huculak, M and Watson, CJ}, title = {Taphonomic impact of vertebrate scavengers on degradation and dispersal of remains, southeastern British Columbia.}, journal = {Journal of forensic sciences}, volume = {69}, number = {6}, pages = {1985-1995}, doi = {10.1111/1556-4029.15620}, pmid = {39228068}, issn = {1556-4029}, support = {C150-2017-12//The Canada 150 Research Chairs/ ; RGPIN/6098/2019//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; British Columbia ; Swine ; *Feeding Behavior ; Postmortem Changes ; Body Remains ; Forensic Anthropology ; Seasons ; Ursidae ; }, abstract = {Vertebrate scavengers represent important taphonomic agents that can act on a body, particularly when in an outdoor environment. Understanding the effects of these agents will direct how and where to search for human remains and influence the likelihood of discovery in a particular region. The current study aimed to identify the taphonomic impact of scavenger guilds in the peri-urban and rural regions of southeastern British Columbia. Vertebrate scavenger activity on pig carcasses was recorded remotely using trail cameras and analyzed to determine temporal scavenging profiles. Both the peri-urban and rural environments produced comparable scavenger guilds, namely: turkey vultures, American crows/northern ravens (classified as "corvids"), American black bears, and coyotes. Although the two locations had different study lengths due to variable degrees of scavenging, for the period that was common to both locations (summer to early fall), the black bear was the most frequent scavenger followed by coyote. However, the dispersal of remains by the mammalian scavengers was distinctly different between sites. Only 12%-33% of skeletal elements were recovered at the rural sites compared to 80%-90% recovered at the peri-urban sites, even though the latter sites had a longer study timeframe. The extended timeframe of the peri-urban sites confirmed that certain scavengers (e.g., turkey vultures and black bears) are only seasonally active in this region. These findings demonstrate the variability of scavenger behavior and the need to assign caution and local ecological knowledge when predicting scavenger trends. Such taphonomic information is relevant for human remains searches in regions with comparable scavenger guilds.}, }
@article {pmid39227504, year = {2024}, author = {Cornero, FM and Clayton, NS}, title = {Object permanence in rooks (Corvus frugilegus): Individual differences and behavioral considerations.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {39227504}, issn = {1543-4508}, abstract = {Piagetian object permanence (OP) refers to the ability to know that an object continues to exist when out of sight: In humans, it develops in six stages. Species of great apes, other mammals, and birds (parrots, corvids, and pigeons) have been shown to possess partial or full OP, which is a prerequisite for more complex physical cognition abilities they may possess. In birds, the greatest variation is in Stage 6 (invisible displacements) and in "A-not-B" errors-incorrectly persevering in searching an empty location rewarded previously. Caching abilities have been invoked as holding explanatory power over results in corvids, for which this error is sometimes completely absent. The rook (Corvus frugilegus), a cognitively advanced, social, caching corvid, has not yet been studied for OP. This study applies tasks of one OP scale commonly adapted for nonhuman animals, Uzgiris and Hunt's Scale 1, as well as later-conceived tasks 16 and S, to a sample of adult, captive rooks. One rook demonstrated full OP (Stage 6b, multiple invisible displacements), whereas other individuals varied, attaining between Stages 5a (single visible displacements) and 6a (single invisible displacements). Like some corvids, a few made transient "A-not-B" errors. Behavioral considerations potentially underlying observed individual variation in results in rooks, including dominance, neophobia, past experiences, and individual idiosyncrasies, are examined. Rooks, like other corvids, possess well-developed OP abilities, and these results support the idea that exertion of executive control is required to avoid "A-not-B" errors, rather than caching abilities or developmental age, as previously suggested.}, }
@article {pmid39224166, year = {2024}, author = {Stone, MM and Afriandi, H and Suwanda, FN and Andono, A and Mahmud, R and Khairani, OK and Clark, AB and Webster, M and McGowan, K and Radcliffe, RW}, title = {Symbiosis between the Javan rhinoceros and slender-billed crow: A novel inferred cleaning mutualism.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {14}, number = {9}, pages = {e70224}, pmid = {39224166}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Over the past century, the Javan rhinoceroses' (Rhinoceros sondaicus) secluded nature and low population size have led to a gap in knowledge of their ecology. With fewer than 80 individuals surviving in a single population in West Java, Indonesia, the Javan rhinoceros is one of the most critically endangered mammals in the world. As part of a pilot bioacoustics study of the Javan rhinoceros in 2019, we systematically reviewed camera trap footage from the core Javan rhinoceros range in Ujung Kulon National Park (UKNP). In doing so, we discovered a previously unknown interaction between the Javan rhinoceros and the slender-billed crow (Corvus enca), in which the crow finds and eats ectoparasites from the rhinoceros (Figure 1). We describe this interaction and suggest that it may represent a cleaning mutualism with benefits for both the crow and the rhinoceros.}, }
@article {pmid39215030, year = {2024}, author = {Malik, S and Patro, SGK and Mahanty, C and Lasisi, A and Al-Sareji, OJ}, title = {Hybrid raven roosting intelligence framework for enhancing efficiency in data clustering.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {20163}, pmid = {39215030}, issn = {2045-2322}, abstract = {The field of data exploration relies heavily on clustering techniques to organize vast datasets into meaningful subgroups, offering valuable insights across various domains. Traditional clustering algorithms face limitations in terms of performance, often getting stuck in local minima and struggling with complex datasets of varying shapes and densities. They also require prior knowledge of the number of clusters, which can be a drawback in real-world scenarios. In response to these challenges, we propose the "hybrid raven roosting intelligence framework" (HRIF) algorithm. HRIF draws inspiration from the dynamic behaviors of roosting ravens and computational intelligence. What distinguishes HRIF is its effective capacity to adeptly navigate the clustering landscape, evading local optima and converging toward optimal solutions. An essential enhancement in HRIF is the incorporation of the Gaussian mutation operator, which adds stochasticity to improve exploration and mitigate the risk of local minima. This research presents the development and evaluation of HRIF, showcasing its unique fusion of nature-inspired optimization techniques and computational intelligence. Extensive experiments with diverse benchmark datasets demonstrate HRIF's competitive performance, particularly its capability to handle complex data and avoid local minima, resulting in accurate clustering outcomes. HRIF's adaptability to challenging datasets and its potential to enhance clustering efficiency and solution quality position it as a promising solution in the world of data exploration.}, }
@article {pmid39212877, year = {2024}, author = {Sánchez Arteaga, J}, title = {"The Logic of Monsters:" Pere Alberch and the Evolutionary Significance of Experimental Teratology.}, journal = {Journal of the history of biology}, volume = {57}, number = {3}, pages = {379-401}, pmid = {39212877}, issn = {1573-0387}, mesh = {*Teratology/history ; *Biological Evolution ; Animals ; *Developmental Biology/history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 19th Century ; Caudata/genetics ; Anura ; }, abstract = {This paper offers an historical introduction to Pere Alberch's evolutionary thought and his contributions to Evo-Devo, based on his unique approach to experimental teratology. We will take as our point of reference the teratogenic experiments developed by Alberch and Emily A. Gale during the 1980s, aimed at producing monstrous variants of frogs and salamanders. We will analyze his interpretation of the results of these experiments within the framework of the emergence of evolutionary developmental biology (or "Evo-Devo"). The aim is understand how Alberch interpreted teratological anomalies as highly revealing objects of study for understanding the development of organic form, not only in an ontogenetic sense-throughout embryonic development-but also phylogenetically-throughout the evolution of species. Alberch's interpretation of monsters reflects the influence of a long tradition of non-Darwinian evolutionary thought, which began in the nineteenth century and was continued in the twentieth century by people such as Richard Goldschmidt, Conrad H. Waddington, and Stephen Jay Gould. They all proposed various non-gradualist models of evolution, in which embryonic development played a central role. Following this tradition, Alberch argued that, in order to attain a correct understanding of the role of embryological development in evolution, it was necessary to renounce the gradualist paradigm associated with the Darwinian interpretation of evolution, which understood nature as a continuum. According to Alberch, the study of monstrous abnormalities was of great value in understanding how certain epigenetic restrictions in development could give rise to discontinuities and directionality in morphological transformations throughout evolution.}, }
@article {pmid39210516, year = {2024}, author = {Pesant, M-J and Ferrell, S and Köszegi, M and Baby, V and Grenier Saint-Sauveur, V and Valle Tejada, C and Lair, S and Gagnon, CA}, title = {Complete genome sequence of a Circovirus pigeon strain in lymphocyte-depleted bursa of Fabricius of a Common Raven (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Microbiology resource announcements}, volume = {13}, number = {10}, pages = {e0037824}, pmid = {39210516}, issn = {2576-098X}, support = {RGPIN-2017-05240//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; 324663//FRQ | Fonds de recherche du Qu&#xe9;bec - Nature et technologies (FRQNT)/ ; }, abstract = {A necropsy was performed on a Common Raven (Corvus corax) presenting an opportunistic fungal respiratory infection and a bursal lymphoid depletion with inclusion bodies, suggestive of a circovirus infection. High-throughput sequencing of circular DNA in the bursa of Fabricius revealed a complete genome sequence of a Circovirus pigeon strain.}, }
@article {pmid39207215, year = {2024}, author = {Islam, A and Wille, M and Rahman, MZ and Porter, AF and Hosaain, ME and Hassan, MM and Shirin, T and Epstein, JH and Klaassen, M}, title = {Phylodynamics of high pathogenicity avian influenza virus in Bangladesh identifying domestic ducks as the amplifying host reservoir.}, journal = {Emerging microbes &amp; infections}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {2399268}, pmid = {39207215}, issn = {2222-1751}, mesh = {Animals ; *Influenza in Birds/virology/epidemiology/prevention &amp; control ; *Ducks/virology ; Bangladesh/epidemiology ; *Phylogeny ; *Disease Reservoirs/virology ; *Chickens/virology ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/genetics/pathogenicity/immunology/classification/isolation &amp; purification ; Crows/virology ; Animals, Wild/virology ; Influenza A virus/genetics/pathogenicity/classification/immunology ; Poultry Diseases/virology/epidemiology/prevention &amp; control ; }, abstract = {High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) virus H5N1 first emerged in Bangladesh in 2007. Despite the use of vaccines in chickens since 2012 to control HPAI, HPAI H5Nx viruses have continued to infect poultry, and wild birds, resulting in notable mass mortalities in house crows (Corvus splendens). The first HPAI H5Nx viruses in Bangladesh belonged to clade 2.2.2, followed by clade 2.3.4.2 and 2.3.2.1 viruses in 2011. After the implementation of chicken vaccination in 2012, these viruses were mostly replaced by clade 2.3.2.1a viruses and more recently clade 2.3.4.4b and h viruses. In this study, we reconstruct the phylogenetic history of HPAI H5Nx viruses in Bangladesh to evaluate the role of major host species in the maintenance and evolution of HPAI H5Nx virus in Bangladesh and reveal the role of heavily impacted crows in virus epidemiology. Epizootic waves caused by HPAI H5N1 and H5N6 viruses amongst house crows occurred annually in winter. Bayesian phylodynamic analysis of clade 2.3.2.1a revealed frequent bidirectional viral transitions between domestic ducks, chickens, and house crows that was markedly skewed towards ducks; domestic ducks might be the source, or reservoir, of HPAI H5Nx in Bangladesh, as the number of viral transitions from ducks to chickens and house crows was by far more numerous than the other transitions. Our results suggest viral circulation in domestic birds despite vaccination, with crow epizootics acting as a sentinel. The vaccination strategy needs to be updated to use more effective vaccinations, assess vaccine efficacy, and extension of vaccination to domestic ducks, the key reservoir.}, }
@article {pmid39201022, year = {2024}, author = {Colucci, F and Stefanelli, S and Contaldi, E and Gozzi, A and Marchetti, A and Pugliatti, M and Laudisi, M and Antenucci, P and Capone, JG and Gragnaniello, D and Sensi, M}, title = {Cognition in Patients with Spinocerebellar Ataxia 1 (SCA1) and 2 (SCA2): A Neurophysiological and Neuropsychological Approach.}, journal = {Journal of clinical medicine}, volume = {13}, number = {16}, pages = {}, pmid = {39201022}, issn = {2077-0383}, abstract = {Background/Objectives: Cognitive impairment in spinocerebellar ataxia patients has been reported since the early-disease stage. We aimed to assess cognitive differences in SCA1 and SCA2 patients. Methods: We performed neuropsychological (NPS) and neurophysiological (auditory event-related potentials, aERPs) assessments in 16 SCA1 and 18 SCA2 consecutive patients. Furthermore, clinical information (age at onset, disease duration, motor disability) was collected. Results: NPS tests yielded scores in the normal range in both groups but with lower scores in the Frontal Assessment Battery (p < 0.05) and Visual Analogue Test for Anosognosia for motor impairment (p < 0.05) in SCA1, and the Trail Making Test (p < 0.01), Raven's progressive matrices (p < 0.01), Stroop (p < 0.05), and emotion attribution tests (p < 0.05) in SCA2. aERPs showed lower N100 amplitude (p < 0.01) and prolonged N200 latency (p < 0.01) in SCA1 compared with SCA2. Clinically, SCA2 had more severe motor disability than SCA1 in the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia Scale. Conclusions: SCA2 showed more significant difficulties in attentional, visuospatial, and emotional function, and greater motor impairment. In contrast, SCA1 showed less cognitive flexibility/phasic ability, probably affected by a more severe degree of dysarthria. The same group revealed less neural activity during nonconscious attentional processing (N100-N200 data), suggesting greater involvement of sensory pathways in discriminating auditory stimuli. NFS did not correlate with NPS findings, implying an independent relationship. However, the specific role of the cerebellum and cerebellar symptoms in NPS test results deserves more focus.}, }
@article {pmid39195696, year = {2024}, author = {Iacob, D and Paduraru, E and Gabor, VR and Gache, C and Breaban, IG and Gurlui, S and Plavan, G and Jijie, R and Nicoara, M}, title = {Trace Metal Bioaccumulation in Feral Pigeons (Columba livia f. domestica) and Rooks (Corvus frugilegus) Residing in the Urban Environment of Iasi City, Romania.}, journal = {Toxics}, volume = {12}, number = {8}, pages = {}, pmid = {39195696}, issn = {2305-6304}, abstract = {Nowadays, trace metal contamination within urban atmospheres is a significant and concerning global issue. In the present study, two synanthropic bird species, namely, the feral pigeon (Columba livia f. domestica) and the rook (Corvus frugilegus), were employed as bioindicators to assess the atmospheric trace metal pollution in Iasi City, Romania. The concentrations of Ni, Pb, Cd, Co, Cr, and Cu were determined through high-resolution continuum source graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (HR-CS GF-AAS) of various tissues, including the liver, kidney, lung, heart, muscle, and bone, of feral pigeons and rooks collected in Iasi City. The order of trace metal concentrations in the tissues of feral pigeons and rooks in Iasi City was similar: Cu > Pb > Ni > Cd > Cr > Co. However, trace element values in most tissues were higher in the rook samples than in feral pigeon ones, except for Co, which had elevated levels in feral pigeon renal and cardiac tissues, and Cu, which registered the highest concentrations in feral pigeon liver and kidney tissues. While not statistically significant, Pb concentration values in the PM10 fraction of atmospheric particles positively correlated with Pb concentrations in rook kidney samples (p = 0.05). The concentration levels of Cd, Pb, and Ni in the PM10 fraction of air particles showed a positive correlation with Cd levels in the samples of pigeon heart and rook liver, kidney, and heart, Pb levels in the samples of pigeon kidney, heart, and muscle and rook liver and bone, and Ni levels in the samples of pigeon liver, kidney, and bone and rook liver, muscle, and bone, respectively.}, }
@article {pmid39195074, year = {2025}, author = {Rasouli, N and Malakouti, SK and Bayat, M and Mahjoubnavaz, F and Fallahinia, N and Khosrowabadi, R}, title = {Frontal Activity of Recent Suicide Attempters: EEG spectrum Power Performing Raven Task.}, journal = {Clinical EEG and neuroscience}, volume = {56}, number = {2}, pages = {140-149}, doi = {10.1177/15500594241273125}, pmid = {39195074}, issn = {2169-5202}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; *Suicide, Attempted/psychology ; Female ; *Electroencephalography/methods ; Adult ; *Depressive Disorder, Major/physiopathology/psychology ; *Frontal Lobe/physiopathology ; Case-Control Studies ; Problem Solving/physiology ; Young Adult ; Executive Function/physiology ; Prefrontal Cortex/physiopathology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Middle Aged ; }, abstract = {Background: Deficits in problem-solving may be related to vulnerability to suicidal behavior. We aimed to identify the electroencephalographic (EEG) power spectrum associated with the performance of the Raven as a reasoning/problem-solving task among individuals with recent suicide attempts. Methods: This study with the case-control method, consisted of 61 participants who were assigned to three groups: Suicide attempt + Major Depressive Disorder (SA + MDD), Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), and Healthy Control (HC). All participants underwent clinical evaluations and problem-solving abilities. Subsequently, EEG signals were recorded while performing the Raven task. Results: The SA + MDD and MDD groups were significantly different from the HC group in terms of anxiety, reasons for life, and hopelessness. Regarding brain oscillations in performing the raven task, increased theta, gamma, and betha power extending over the frontal areas, including anterior prefrontal cortex, dlPFC, pre-SMA, inferior frontal cortex, and medial prefrontal cortex, was significant in SA + MDD compared with other groups. The alpha wave was more prominent in the left frontal, particularly in dlPFC in SA + MDD. Compared to the MDD group, the SA + MDD group had a shorter reaction time, while their response accuracy did not differ significantly. Conclusions: Suicidal patients have more frontal activity in planning and executive function than the two other groups. Nevertheless, it seems that reduced activity in the left frontal region, which plays a crucial role in managing emotional distress, can contribute to suicidal tendencies among vulnerable individuals. Limitation The small sample size and chosen difficult trials for the Raven task were the most limitations of the study.}, }
@article {pmid39172397, year = {2024}, author = {Gomes-Ng, S and Gray, Q and Cowie, S}, title = {Pigeons' (Columba livia) intertemporal choice in binary-choice and patch-leaving contexts.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1037/com0000387}, pmid = {39172397}, issn = {1939-2087}, support = {//Auckland University of Technology/ ; }, abstract = {Typical approaches to study self-control present subjects with a simultaneous choice between a larger-later (LL) reinforcer and a smaller-sooner (SS) reinforcer. In contrast, in patch-leaving tasks, subjects choose between staying at a patch for an SS (or LL) reinforcer and leaving for an LL (or SS) reinforcer. Previous studies show that blue jays, monkeys, humans, and rats prefer the SS reinforcer in binary-choice tasks, whereas the same subjects prefer the LL reinforcer in equivalent patch-leaving tasks. The current study systematically replicated this research using pigeons. Six pigeons responded in a binary-choice task and in two patch-leaving tasks in which staying led to an LL (Patch-L) or SS (Patch-S) reinforcer. Across conditions, the SS reinforcer delay varied from 5 to 55 s; the LL reinforcer delay was always 60 s. In binary-choice conditions, subjects preferred the SS reinforcer. In Patch-L and Patch-S conditions, subjects preferred the LL and SS reinforcer, respectively, reflecting a bias to stay at the patch. This bias persisted when the stay response was more effortful and when the delays to both reinforcers were equal. This may reflect a species-specific win-stay bias and the differential consequences of staying (which led to a stimulus signaling food) versus leaving (which led to a stimulus never associated with food). Thus, we propose a conditioned-reinforcement account of intertemporal choice in patch-leaving contexts. We suggest several avenues for further investigations of the mechanisms underlying intertemporal choice in different contexts and question the economic equivalence of the operant and patch-leaving procedures. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid39172108, year = {2024}, author = {Mason, LLK and Masuda, B and Swaisgood, RR and Flanagan, AM}, title = {Nest quality predicts the probability of egg loss in the critically endangered 'Alalā (Corvus hawaiiensis).}, journal = {Zoo biology}, volume = {43}, number = {5}, pages = {481-490}, doi = {10.1002/zoo.21849}, pmid = {39172108}, issn = {1098-2361}, support = {//San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance/ ; //State of Hawaii Division of Forestry and Wildlife/ ; //Max and Yetta Karasik Family Foundation/ ; //National Fish and Wildlife Foundation/ ; //U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service/ ; //Anonymous/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Endangered Species ; *Nesting Behavior/physiology ; Male ; Female ; Animal Husbandry/methods ; Ovum/physiology ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; Animals, Zoo ; }, abstract = {Conservation breeding programs for endangered species face challenges, notably in the development of husbandry techniques, complicated by the impracticality of conducting controlled experiments. To reduce uncertainty regarding what works in conservation breeding programs, it is essential to capture data. In avian breeding programs, the construction of quality nests and appropriate incubation and handling of eggs by the parents are essential prerequisites to the successful production of offspring. Here, we study factors influencing nest-building and parental incubation outcomes in 'alalā (Corvus hawaiiensis), which is extinct in the wild and numbers fewer than 130 individuals in human care. Using parent-incubated egg data from 2018 to 2021 (171 clutches, 55 pairs), we evaluated the role of husbandry factors in determining the quality of nests constructed by 'alalā and the likelihood of nest quality and other social and environmental factors to predict egg loss (breaking, cannibalization, or ejection of an egg from the nest). More than half of all eggs laid failed to reach the hatch date. Nest quality was the most influential predictor of egg loss, with eggs in higher quality nests more likely to reach the hatch date. Male age also influenced egg loss, with very young (3 years old) and older males (⪞12 years old) experiencing more egg loss. Furthermore, the two facilities and two aviary types also differed in the quality of nests 'alalā constructed, indicating that nest-building behavior can be influenced by husbandry practices. These findings reduce uncertainty and provide insights for recommended management interventions to facilitate successful reproduction in human care.}, }
@article {pmid39169572, year = {2024}, author = {Onal, C and Demirhan, B and Elmali, A and Guler, OC}, title = {Nomograms for detecting lymph node metastasis detected with surgery-Can you name any birds other than crow?.}, journal = {The Prostate}, volume = {84}, number = {15}, pages = {1413-1414}, doi = {10.1002/pros.24759}, pmid = {39169572}, issn = {1097-0045}, }
@article {pmid39169115, year = {2024}, author = {Dos Santos, FAA and Barros, SC and Fagulha, T and Ramos, F and Henriques, AM and Duarte, A and Magalhães, A and Luís, T and Duarte, MD}, title = {First detection of Bagaza virus in Common magpies (Pica pica), Portugal 2023.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {19452}, pmid = {39169115}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {Project UIDB/00276/2020//FCT/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Portugal ; *Flavivirus/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Phylogeny ; Bird Diseases/virology/epidemiology ; Flavivirus Infections/virology/veterinary/transmission/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Bagaza virus (BAGV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus of the family Flaviviridae, genus Orthoflavivirus, Ntaya serocomplex. Like other viruses of the Ntaya and Japanese encephalitis serocomplexes, it is maintained in nature in transmission cycles involving viremic wild bird reservoirs and Culex spp. mosquitoes. The susceptibility of red-legged partridge, ring-necked pheasant, Himalayan monal and common wood pigeon is well known. Determining whether other species are susceptible to BAGV infection is fundamental to understanding the dynamics of disease transmission and maintenance. In September 2023, seven Eurasian magpies were found dead in a rural area in the Mértola district (southern Portugal) where a BAGV-positive cachectic red-legged partridge had been found two weeks earlier. BAGV had also been detected in several red-legged partridges in the same area in September 2021. Three of the magpies were tested for Bagaza virus, Usutu virus, West Nile virus, Avian influenza virus and Avian paramyxovirus serotype 1, and were positive for BAGV only. Sequencing data confirmed the specificity of the molecular detection. Our results indicate that BAGV is circulating in southern Portugal and confirm that Eurasian magpie is potential susceptible to BAGV infection. The inclusion of the abundant Eurasian magpie in the list of BAGV hosts raises awareness of the potential role of this species as as an amplifying host.}, }
@article {pmid39148142, year = {2024}, author = {Martínez-Renau, E and Martín-Platero, AM and Bodawatta, KH and Martín-Vivaldi, M and Martínez-Bueno, M and Poulsen, M and Soler, JJ}, title = {Social environment influences microbiota and potentially pathogenic bacterial communities on the skin of developing birds.}, journal = {Animal microbiome}, volume = {6}, number = {1}, pages = {47}, pmid = {39148142}, issn = {2524-4671}, support = {PRE2018-085378//Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovaci&#xf3;n/ ; CGL2017-83103-P//Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovaci&#xf3;n/ ; CGL2017-83103-P//European Regional Development Fund/ ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Animal bacterial symbionts are established early in life, either through vertical transmission and/or by horizontal transmission from both the physical and the social environment, such as direct contact with con- or heterospecifics. The social environment particularly can influence the acquisition of both mutualistic and pathogenic bacteria, with consequences for the stability of symbiotic communities. However, segregating the effects of the shared physical environment from those of the social interactions is challenging, limiting our current knowledge on the role of the social environment in structuring bacterial communities in wild animals. Here, we take advantage of the avian brood-parasite system of Eurasian magpies (Pica pica) and great spotted cuckoos (Clamator glandarius) to explore how the interspecific social environment (magpie nestlings developing with or without heterospecifics) affects bacterial communities on uropygial gland skin.<br><br>RESULTS: We demonstrated interspecific differences in bacterial community compositions in members of the two species when growing up in monospecific nests. However, the bacterial community of magpies in heterospecific nests was richer, more diverse, and more similar to their cuckoo nest-mates than when growing up in monospecific nests. These patterns were alike for the subset of microbes that could be considered core, but when looking at the subset of potentially pathogenic bacterial genera, cuckoo presence reduced the relative abundance of potentially pathogenic bacterial genera on magpies.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our findings highlight the role of social interactions in shaping the assembly of the avian skin bacterial communities during the nestling period, as exemplified in a brood parasite-host system.}, }
@article {pmid39146098, year = {2024}, author = {Xu, M and Lei, P and Bai, Y and Chen, Z and Xie, X}, title = {Enhancement of Brillouin nonlinearities with a coupled resonator optical waveguide.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {49}, number = {16}, pages = {4541-4544}, doi = {10.1364/OL.533979}, pmid = {39146098}, issn = {1539-4794}, abstract = {Stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) is a nonlinear optical phenomenon mediated from the coupling of photons and phonons. It has found applications in various realms, yet the acousto-optic interaction strength remains relatively weak. Enhancing the SBS with resonant structures could be a promising solution, but this method faces strict constraints in operational bandwidth. Here, we present the first demonstration to our knowledge of the broadband enhancement of Brillouin nonlinearities by a suspended coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW) on an SOI platform. By comprehensively balancing the Brillouin gain and operational bandwidth, a 3-fold enhancement for the Brillouin gain coefficient (GB) and a broad operational bandwidth of over 80 GHz have been achieved. Furthermore, this 1.1 mm device shows a forward Brillouin gain coefficient of 2422 m[-1]W[-1] and a high mechanical quality factor (Qm) of 1060. This approach marks a pivotal advancement toward wide bandwidth, low energy consumption, and compact integrated nonlinear photonic devices, with potential applications in tunable microwave photonic filters and phonon-based non-reciprocal devices.}, }
@article {pmid39142379, year = {2024}, author = {Seo, H and Ansai, E and Sase, T and Saito, T and Takano, T and Kojima, Y and Waki, T}, title = {Introduction of a snake trematode of the genus Ochetosoma in eastern Japan.}, journal = {Parasitology international}, volume = {103}, number = {}, pages = {102947}, doi = {10.1016/j.parint.2024.102947}, pmid = {39142379}, issn = {1873-0329}, mesh = {Animals ; Japan ; *Trematoda/classification/isolation &amp; purification/anatomy &amp; histology/genetics ; *Snakes/parasitology ; Phylogeny ; Snails/parasitology ; Trematode Infections/parasitology/veterinary/epidemiology ; Introduced Species ; Mouth/parasitology ; }, abstract = {In Japan, trematodes of the family Ochetosomatidae are not naturally distributed. However, the introduced ochetosomatid Ochetosoma kansense (Crow, 1913) has been reported from the oral cavity of native snakes in western Japan since 2010s. In this study, trematodes were isolated from the oral cavities of the native Japanese snakes, Elaphe quadrivirgata (Boie, 1826), E. climacophora (Boie, 1826), and Rhabdophis tigrinus (Boie, 1826), in the central Kanto region of eastern Japan. Morphological and molecular analyses of the isolated trematodes revealed that all trematodes were identifiable to a newly introduced ochetosomatid species to Japan, O. elongatum (Pratt, 1903), which originated from North America; Lechriorchis tygarti Talbot, 1933 was synonymized with O. elongatum based on identical molecular data and morphological similarity. To identify first intermediate hosts of O. elongatum, seven freshwater snail species were examined in eastern Japan. Molecular analysis was used to identify O. elongatum sporocysts in the freshwater snail Physella acuta (Draparnaud, 1805), which also originated from North America. The other six species did not host O. elongatum, suggesting that Ph. acuta is the only first intermediate host of O. elongatum in Japan. Although O. elongatum has been detected in Japan, its invasion route and period of introduction are unclear. Frequent imports of freshwater snails and wild snakes from North America, after the 1990s and 2005, respectively, presumably introduced O. elongatum in Japan.}, }
@article {pmid39141936, year = {2024}, author = {Nelson, APK and Mole, J and Pombo, G and Gray, RJ and Ruffle, JK and Chan, E and Rees, GE and Cipolotti, L and Nachev, P}, title = {The minimal computational substrate of fluid intelligence.}, journal = {Cortex; a journal devoted to the study of the nervous system and behavior}, volume = {179}, number = {}, pages = {62-76}, doi = {10.1016/j.cortex.2024.07.003}, pmid = {39141936}, issn = {1973-8102}, mesh = {Humans ; *Intelligence/physiology ; Male ; Female ; *Neural Networks, Computer ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; Cognition/physiology ; Young Adult ; Intelligence Tests ; Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {The quantification of cognitive powers rests on identifying a behavioural task that depends on them. Such dependence cannot be assured, for the powers a task invokes cannot be experimentally controlled or constrained a priori, resulting in unknown vulnerability to failure of specificity and generalisability. Evaluating a compact version of Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM), a widely used clinical test of fluid intelligence, we show that LaMa, a self-supervised artificial neural network trained solely on the completion of partially masked images of natural environmental scenes, achieves representative human-level test scores a prima vista, without any task-specific inductive bias or training. Compared with cohorts of healthy and focally lesioned participants, LaMa exhibits human-like variation with item difficulty, and produces errors characteristic of right frontal lobe damage under degradation of its ability to integrate global spatial patterns. LaMa's narrow training and limited capacity suggest matrix-style tests may be open to computationally simple solutions that need not necessarily invoke the substrates of reasoning.}, }
@article {pmid39140880, year = {2024}, author = {Machado, RB and Amorim, TOS and de Castro, F and Andriolo, A}, title = {Use of whistles for acoustic classification of delphinids (odontoceti: Delphinidae) in the Western South Atlantic Ocean.}, journal = {The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America}, volume = {156}, number = {2}, pages = {1070-1080}, doi = {10.1121/10.0028170}, pmid = {39140880}, issn = {1520-8524}, mesh = {Animals ; *Vocalization, Animal/classification ; *Acoustics ; Atlantic Ocean ; *Dolphins/classification/physiology ; Sound Spectrography ; Brazil ; Species Specificity ; Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted ; }, abstract = {This study focuses on the acoustic classification of delphinid species at the southern continental slope of Brazil. Recordings were collected between 2013 and 2015 using towed arrays and were processed using a classifier to identify the species in the recordings. Using Raven Pro 1.6 software (Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology, Ithaca, NY), we analyzed whistles for species identification. The random forest algorithm in R facilitates classification analysis based on acoustic parameters, including low, high, delta, center, beginning, and ending frequencies, and duration. Evaluation metrics, such as correct and incorrect classification percentages, global accuracy, balanced accuracy, and p-values, were employed. Receiver operating characteristic curves and area-under-the-curve (AUC) values demonstrated well-fitting models (AUC ≥ 0.7) for species definition. Duration and delta frequency emerged as crucial parameters for classification, as indicated by the decrease in mean accuracy. Multivariate dispersion plots visualized the proximity between acoustic and visual match data and exclusively acoustic encounter (EAE) data. The EAE results classified as Delphinus delphis (n = 6), Stenella frontalis (n = 3), and Stenella longirostris (n = 2) provide valuable insights into the presence of these species between approximately 23° and 34° S in Brazil. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of acousting classification in discriminating delphinids through whistle parameters.}, }
@article {pmid39140629, year = {2024}, author = {Wang, SS and Parikh, JR}, title = {A Radiologist's Wellness Journey: AJR Podcast Series on Wellness, Episode 5.}, journal = {AJR. American journal of roentgenology}, volume = {223}, number = {3}, pages = {e2431888}, doi = {10.2214/AJR.24.31888}, pmid = {39140629}, issn = {1546-3141}, mesh = {Humans ; *Radiologists ; Webcasts as Topic ; Burnout, Professional/prevention &amp; control ; Periodicals as Topic ; Health Promotion/methods ; }, }
@article {pmid39123837, year = {2024}, author = {Sankaranarayanan, S and Vijayakumar, R and Swaminathan, S and Almarri, B and Lorenz, P and Rodrigues, JJPC}, title = {Node Localization Method in Wireless Sensor Networks Using Combined Crow Search and the Weighted Centroid Method.}, journal = {Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {24}, number = {15}, pages = {}, pmid = {39123837}, issn = {1424-8220}, support = {No. KFU241353//Deanship of Scientific Research, Vice Presidency for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia/ ; No. 306607/2023-9//Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development-CNPq/ ; }, abstract = {Node localization is critical for accessing diverse nodes that provide services in remote places. Single-anchor localization techniques suffer co-linearity, performing poorly. The reliable multiple anchor node selection method is computationally intensive and requires a lot of processing power and time to identify suitable anchor nodes. Node localization in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is challenging due to the number and placement of anchors, as well as their communication capabilities. These senor nodes possess limited energy resources, which is a big concern in localization. In addition to convention optimization in WSNs, researchers have employed nature-inspired algorithms to localize unknown nodes in WSN. However, these methods take longer, require lots of processing power, and have higher localization error, with a greater number of beacon nodes and sensitivity to parameter selection affecting localization. This research employed a nature-inspired crow search algorithm (an improvement over other nature-inspired algorithms) for selecting the suitable number of anchor nodes from the population, reducing errors in localizing unknown nodes. Additionally, the weighted centroid method was proposed for identifying the exact location of an unknown node. This made the crow search weighted centroid localization (CS-WCL) algorithm a more trustworthy and efficient method for node localization in WSNs, with reduced average localization error (ALE) and energy consumption. CS-WCL outperformed WCL and distance vector (DV)-Hop, with a reduced ALE of 15% (from 32%) and varying communication radii from 20 m to 45 m. Also, the ALE against scalability was validated for CS-WCL against WCL and DV-Hop for a varying number of beacon nodes (from 3 to 2), reducing ALE to 2.59% (from 28.75%). Lastly, CS-WCL resulted in reduced energy consumption (from 120 mJ to 45 mJ) for varying network nodes from 30 to 300 against WCL and DV-Hop. Thus, CS-WCL outperformed other nature-inspired algorithms in node localization. These have been validated using MATLAB 2022b.}, }
@article {pmid39118841, year = {2024}, author = {Hosoda, C and YunFeng, Z and Watanabe, J and Maruya, K and Tabuchi, R and Hosokawa, K and Matsuhashi, T}, title = {The importance of childhood social capitals in the future well-being of children.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {15}, number = {}, pages = {1389269}, pmid = {39118841}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Elucidating the enduring effects of childhood social capital is vital for shaping future well-being. Here, we investigate the impact of childhood social capital (SC) and parental engagement on adult psychological well-being and cognitive performance.<br><br>METHODS: Utilizing a cohort of 292 Japanese university students, we assessed the influences of SC and parental time during childhood on adult outcomes. Participants retrospectively reported their early childhood experiences, focusing on social interactions and parental involvement.<br><br>RESULTS: Our findings reveal a significant positive correlation between childhood SC and adult subjective well-being, particularly in its positive dimensions. Additionally, maternal involvement during childhood is associated with cognitive abilities in adulthood, as measured by Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices. Hierarchical multiple linear regression analysis highlights the substantial impact of childhood SC on adult well-being, elucidating the intricate interplay between social and parental contributions to developmental trajectories.<br><br>DISCUSSION: These results highlight the crucial roles of both parental and non-parental figures in fostering social, emotional, and cognitive development from childhood to adulthood, underscoring the importance of nurturing supportive relationships throughout early life to promote positive developmental outcomes.}, }
@article {pmid39111859, year = {2024}, author = {Shimoda, M and Ishitsuka, K and Morisaki, N}, title = {[Development and psychometric properties of the Japanese version of Child and Youth Resilience Measure-Revised (CYRM-R) among Japanese youth].}, journal = {[Nihon koshu eisei zasshi] Japanese journal of public health}, volume = {71}, number = {10}, pages = {599-605}, doi = {10.11236/jph.23-113}, pmid = {39111859}, issn = {0546-1766}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; East Asian People/psychology ; Japan ; *Psychometrics ; *Resilience, Psychological ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {Objectives Resilience is the ability to navigate adversity and recover from challenging situations. Developing resilience at a young age promotes mental health and provides benefits throughout one's lifespan. Validated measures for assessing resilience at a young age are required in both clinical practice and epidemiological studies. The Child and Youth Resilience Measure-Revised (CYRM-R) is a tool used worldwide to assess resilience in children and young people. The objective of this study was to develop a Japanese version of the CYRM-R and investigate its psychometric properties.Methods Children in grades 5-9 were recruited via a two-stage cluster random sampling taken from the Japan Adolescent and Youth (JAY) Longitudinal Cohort Study. The participants completed the Japanese version of the CYRM-R . The CYRM-R consists of two subscales, personal resilience and caregiver resilience, with a total of 17 items. The linguistic validity of the Japanese version of the CYRM-R was ensured through translation and back-translation.Cronbach's alpha coefficients were examined for the total score and the two subscales to assess the internal consistency of the Japanese version of the CYRM-R scale. In addition, correlation coefficients of the subscales were calculated. For factorial validity, a confirmatory factor analysis was conducted on the same two-factor structure as in the original version to assess the model's goodness of fit. Results A total of 2,266 children (50.0% male) were included in the study. The overall Cronbach's alpha of the Japanese version of the CYRM-R obtained from this sample was 0.956; For the personal resilience subscale, Cronbach's alpha was 0.932; for the caregiver resilience subscale, it was 0.919. Significant positive correlations were also found between subscales (r = 0.827, p < 0.001). A confirmatory factor analysis was conducted using a two-factor structure for validity. The model fit was good (RMSEA = 0.085, SRMR = 0.041, CFI = 0.934).Conclusion The Japanese version of the CYRM-R maintained the same two-factor structure as the original version. The study findings showed that the Japanese version of the CYRM-R had adequate internal consistency and factorial validity for assessing resilience in children and youth. Therefore, this scale is a valuable tool for identifying individuals or groups at risk in terms of children's resilience and for evaluating the effectiveness of support and interventions.}, }
@article {pmid39110762, year = {2024}, author = {Zandberg, L and Morfi, V and George, JM and Clayton, DF and Stowell, D and Lachlan, RF}, title = {Bird song comparison using deep learning trained from avian perceptual judgments.}, journal = {PLoS computational biology}, volume = {20}, number = {8}, pages = {e1012329}, pmid = {39110762}, issn = {1553-7358}, mesh = {Animals ; *Deep Learning ; *Vocalization, Animal/physiology ; *Finches/physiology ; Algorithms ; Computational Biology/methods ; Judgment/physiology ; Male ; Sound Spectrography/methods ; Conditioning, Operant/physiology ; Humans ; }, abstract = {Our understanding of bird song, a model system for animal communication and the neurobiology of learning, depends critically on making reliable, validated comparisons between the complex multidimensional syllables that are used in songs. However, most assessments of song similarity are based on human inspection of spectrograms, or computational methods developed from human intuitions. Using a novel automated operant conditioning system, we collected a large corpus of zebra finches' (Taeniopygia guttata) decisions about song syllable similarity. We use this dataset to compare and externally validate similarity algorithms in widely-used publicly available software (Raven, Sound Analysis Pro, Luscinia). Although these methods all perform better than chance, they do not closely emulate the avian assessments. We then introduce a novel deep learning method that can produce perceptual similarity judgements trained on such avian decisions. We find that this new method outperforms the established methods in accuracy and more closely approaches the avian assessments. Inconsistent (hence ambiguous) decisions are a common occurrence in animal behavioural data; we show that a modification of the deep learning training that accommodates these leads to the strongest performance. We argue this approach is the best way to validate methods to compare song similarity, that our dataset can be used to validate novel methods, and that the general approach can easily be extended to other species.}, }
@article {pmid39108544, year = {2024}, author = {Dai, M and Mo, J and Liao, X and Li, Z and Wu, H and Xia, S and Xu, Q}, title = {The complete mitochondrial genome of Mya japonica (Jay, 1857 Myida:myidae).}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part B, Resources}, volume = {9}, number = {8}, pages = {991-994}, pmid = {39108544}, issn = {2380-2359}, abstract = {The soft-shell clam Mya japonica (Jay, 1857) is a commercially important fishery resource. In this study, we identified the complete mitochondrial genome of M. japonica and performed a phylogenetic analysis to explore its genetic relationship with Mya arenaria. The genome is 21,396 bp in length and contains 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 23 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), 2 ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs), and 5 D-Loop control regions. The atp8 gene was annotated in Myidae for the first time. Notably, the genome contains an additional trnM, consistent with M. arenaria. The length of the cox2 gene is 1,947 bp, which is 513 bp longer than that in M. arenaria. Its base composition is 29.14% A, 37.26% T, 10.89% C, and 22.71% G. Phylogenetic analysis based on 12 PCGs and 2 rRNAs indicates that M. japonica and M. arenaria form a sister group. In this study, the identification and phylogenetic analysis of the complete mitochondrial genome of M. japonica provide significant information for future taxonomic and evolutionary research of the genus Mya.}, }
@article {pmid39107974, year = {2024}, author = {Zang, S and Chen, J and Chevalier, C and Zhang, J and Li, S and Wang, H and Li, J and Chen, Y and Xu, H and Sheng, L and Zhang, Z and Qiu, J}, title = {Holistic investigation of the anti-wrinkle and repair efficacy of a facial cream enriched with C-xyloside.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {23}, number = {12}, pages = {4017-4028}, pmid = {39107974}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Humans ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; Female ; *Skin Cream/administration &amp; dosage ; Adult ; *Filaggrin Proteins ; Middle Aged ; *Elasticity/drug effects ; Epidermis/drug effects ; Water Loss, Insensible/drug effects ; Face ; Treatment Outcome ; Glycosides/administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate the repairing and anti-wrinkle efficacy of the facial cream enriched with C-xyloside, aiming at comprehensively evaluating its skin anti- aging effect and clarify its potential mechanism of action.<br><br>METHODS: The repairing efficacy was studied on 3D epidermis skin model and the antiaging efficacy was studied on ex-vivo human skin. Two clinical studies were conducted with Chinese females. In the first study, 49 subjects aged between 30 and 50 with wrinkle concerns were recruited and instructed to apply the investigational cream containing C-xyloside for 8&#x2009;weeks. Wrinkles attributes were assessed by dermatologist. Instrumental measurements on skin hydration, trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), and skin elasticity were also conducted. In the second study, 30 subjects aged between 25 and 60 with self-declared sensitive skin and facial redness were recruited and instructed to apply the cream for 4&#x2009;weeks. Biomarker analysis of the stratum corneum was conducted through facial tape strips.<br><br>RESULTS: The cream improved the histomorphology of the 3D epidermis skin model after SLS stimulation, and significantly increase the expression of LOR and FLG. On human skin, the cream improved the histopathology induced by UV, and significantly increased the protein content of COL I and COL III, collagen density and the number of Ki-67 positive cell of skin compared with model group (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;3, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.01). The results from the first clinical study demonstrate a significant increased the skin hydration and elasticity by 21.90%, 13.08% (R2) and 12.30% (R5), respectively (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;49, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05), and the TEWL values decreased by 33.94% (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;49, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05), after 8&#x2009;weeks application of the cream. In addition, the scores for nasolabial folds, glabellar wrinkle, underneath eye wrinkles, crow's feet wrinkle and forehead wrinkle in the volunteers exhibited a significant reduction of 34.02%, 43.34%, 50.03%, 33.64% and 55.81% respectively (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;49, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). The (rCE)/(fCE) ratio of volunteers based on tape stripping significant increased after using the sample cream (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;30, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The cream containing C-xyloside showed improvement of skin wrinkles and enhancement of skin barrier function. These efficacies may be attributed to the fact that the sample cream can increase the expression of skin barrier related proteins LOR and FLG, promote the maturation of cornified envelope, enhance collagen I and III protein expression and stimulate skin cell proliferation, to provide sufficient evidence supporting its antiaging efficacy of skin.}, }
@article {pmid39106453, year = {2024}, author = {Hew, YL and Hiono, T and Monne, I and Nabeshima, K and Sakuma, S and Kumagai, A and Okamura, S and Soda, K and Ito, H and Esaki, M and Okuya, K and Ozawa, M and Yabuta, T and Takakuwa, H and Nguyen, LB and Isoda, N and Miyazawa, K and Onuma, M and Sakoda, Y}, title = {Cocirculation of Genetically Distinct Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N5 and H5N1 Viruses in Crows, Hokkaido, Japan.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {30}, number = {9}, pages = {1912-1917}, pmid = {39106453}, issn = {1080-6059}, mesh = {Animals ; *Influenza in Birds/virology/epidemiology ; Japan/epidemiology ; *Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/genetics/pathogenicity/classification/isolation &amp; purification ; *Crows/virology ; *Phylogeny ; Influenza A virus/genetics/classification ; }, abstract = {We isolated highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N5 and H5N1 viruses from crows in Hokkaido, Japan, during winter 2023-24. They shared genetic similarity with HPAI H5N5 viruses from northern Europe but differed from those in Asia. Continuous monitoring and rapid information sharing between countries are needed to prevent HPAI virus transmission.}, }
@article {pmid39073820, year = {2024}, author = {Krieger, N and Testa, C and Chen, JT and Johnson, N and Watkins, SH and Suderman, M and Simpkin, AJ and Tilling, K and Waterman, PD and Coull, BA and De Vivo, I and Smith, GD and Diez Roux, AV and Relton, C}, title = {Epigenetic Aging and Racialized, Economic, and Environmental Injustice: NIMHD Social Epigenomics Program.}, journal = {JAMA network open}, volume = {7}, number = {7}, pages = {e2421832}, pmid = {39073820}, issn = {2574-3805}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Middle Aged ; *Epigenomics/methods ; *Aging/genetics ; Aged ; *Epigenesis, Genetic/genetics ; United States ; Racism/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Adult ; Social Justice ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Aged, 80 and over ; }, abstract = {IMPORTANCE: Epigenetic age acceleration is associated with exposure to social and economic adversity and may increase the risk of premature morbidity and mortality. However, no studies have included measures of structural racism, and few have compared estimates within or across the first and second generation of epigenetic clocks.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To determine whether epigenetic age acceleration is positively associated with exposures to diverse measures of racialized, economic, and environmental injustice measured at different levels and time periods.<br><br>This cross-sectional study used data from the My Body My Story (MBMS) study between August 8, 2008, and December 31, 2010, and examination 5 of the Multi-Ethnic Atherosclerosis Study (MESA) from April 1, 2010, to February 29, 2012. In the MBMS, DNA extraction was performed in 2021; linkage of structural measures to the MBMS and MESA, in 2022. US-born individuals were randomly selected from 4 community health centers in Boston, Massachusetts (MBMS), and 4 field sites in Baltimore, Maryland; Forsyth County, North Carolina; New York City, New York; and St Paul, Minnesota (MESA). Data were analyzed from November 13, 2021, to August 31, 2023.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Ten epigenetic clocks (6 first-generation and 4 second-generation), computed using DNA methylation data (DNAm) from blood spots (MBMS) and purified monocytes (MESA).<br><br>RESULTS: The US-born study population included 293 MBMS participants (109 men [37.2%], 184 women [62.8%]; mean [SD] age, 49.0 [8.0] years) with 224 Black non-Hispanic and 69 White non-Hispanic participants and 975 MESA participants (492 men [50.5%], 483 women [49.5%]; mean [SD] age, 70.0 [9.3] years) with 229 Black non-Hispanic, 191 Hispanic, and 555 White non-Hispanic participants. Of these, 140 (11.0%) exhibited accelerated aging for all 5 clocks whose estimates are interpretable on the age (years) scale. Among Black non-Hispanic MBMS participants, epigenetic age acceleration was associated with being born in a Jim Crow state by 0.14 (95% CI, 0.003-0.27) SDs and with birth state conservatism by 0.06 (95% CI, 0.01-0.12) SDs, pooling across all clocks. Low parental educational level was associated with epigenetic age acceleration, pooling across all clocks, for both Black non-Hispanic (0.24 [95% CI, 0.08-0.39] SDs) and White non-Hispanic (0.27 [95% CI, 0.03-0.51] SDs) MBMS participants. Adult impoverishment was positively associated with the pooled second-generation clocks among the MESA participants (Black non-Hispanic, 0.06 [95% CI, 0.01-0.12] SDs; Hispanic, 0.07 [95% CI, 0.01-0.14] SDs; White non-Hispanic, 0.05 [95% CI, 0.01-0.08] SDs).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: The findings of this cross-sectional study of MBMS and MESA participants suggest that epigenetic age acceleration was associated with racialized and economic injustice, potentially contributing to well-documented inequities in premature mortality. Future research should test the hypothesis that epigenetic accelerated aging may be one of the biological mechanisms underlying the well-documented elevated risk of premature morbidity and mortality among social groups subjected to racialized and economic injustice.}, }
@article {pmid39069816, year = {2024}, author = {Connelly, F and Johnsson, RD and Mulder, RA and Hall, ML and Lesku, JA}, title = {Experimental playback of urban noise does not affect cognitive performance in captive Australian magpies.}, journal = {Biology open}, volume = {13}, number = {8}, pages = {}, pmid = {39069816}, issn = {2046-6390}, support = {//Holsworth Wildlife Research Endowment/ ; //Ecological Society of Australia/ ; DP170101003//Australian Research Council/ ; //La Trobe University/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; *Noise/adverse effects ; Australia ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; Behavior, Animal ; Male ; }, abstract = {Exposure of wildlife to anthropogenic noise is associated with disruptive effects. Research on this topic has focused on behavioural and physiological responses of animals to noise, with little work investigating links to cognitive function. Neurological processes that maintain cognitive performance can be impacted by stress and sleep disturbances. While sleep loss impairs cognitive performance in Australian magpies, it is unclear whether urban noise, which disrupts sleep, can impact cognition as well. To fill this gap, we explored how environmentally relevant urban noise affected the performance of wild-caught, city-living Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen tyrannica) on a cognitive task battery including associative and reversal learning, inhibitory control, and spatial memory. Birds were housed and tested in a laboratory environment; sample sizes varied across tasks (n=7-9 birds). Tests were conducted over 4 weeks, during which all magpies were exposed to both an urban noise playback and a quiet control. Birds were presented with the entire test battery twice: following exposure to, and in the absence of, an anthropogenic noise playback; however, tests were always performed without noise (playback muted during testing). Magpies performed similarly in both treatments on all four tasks. We also found that prior experience with the associative learning task had a strong effect on performance, with birds performing better on their second round of trials. Like previous findings on Australian magpies tested on the same tasks in the wild under noisy conditions, we could not find any disruptive effects on cognitive performance in a controlled experimental laboratory setting.}, }
@article {pmid39064646, year = {2024}, author = {Nobile, V and Dudonné, S and Kern, C and Roveda, G and Garcia, C}, title = {Antiaging, Brightening, and Antioxidant Efficacy of Fermented Bilberry Extract (Vaccinium myrtillus): A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.}, journal = {Nutrients}, volume = {16}, number = {14}, pages = {}, pmid = {39064646}, issn = {2072-6643}, support = {n/a//Seppic Research and Innovation/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; *Antioxidants/pharmacology ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology ; Female ; *Vaccinium myrtillus/chemistry ; Double-Blind Method ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; Male ; Skin/drug effects ; Skin Pigmentation/drug effects ; Fermentation ; Dietary Supplements ; Aged ; Anthocyanins ; }, abstract = {Strategies for successful aging, including the use of food supplements, are part of the approach to support skin youthfulness. To demonstrate the efficacy of fermented bilberry extract (FBE) against skin aging and uneven complexion, a clinical trial was carried out on 66 subjects with visible "crow's feet" wrinkles, mild-to-moderate skin slackness, and uneven skin tone. The wrinkle depth, skin smoothness (Ra) and roughness (Rz), skin firmness (R0) and elasticity (R2), skin coloration (ITA°), and skin antioxidant capacity were measured before and after 28 (D28), 56 (D56), and 84 (D84) days of product use (either FBE or a placebo). These parameters were also integrated with a clinical evaluation, carried out by a dermatologist, and a self-assessment questionnaire to align the measured efficacy with the visual or perceived efficacy. At D84, the wrinkle depth had decreased by 10.6%, Ra had improved by 7.9%, Rz had decreased by 7.3%, R0 had improved by 13.3%, R2 had improved by 12.4%, and skin antioxidant capacity had increased by 20.8%. ITA° increased by 20.8% and was accompanied by a decrease in the skin's redness component by 16.8% and an increase in the lightness component by 2.2%. The variation of all the above-mentioned parameters was statistically significant between the FBE and PL groups. Our findings demonstrate the efficacy of FBE in improving skin aging and complexion evenness.}, }
@article {pmid39061443, year = {2024}, author = {Terra de Oliveira, R and Lino, TB and Scarmagnan, GS and Miziara Barbosa, SR and de Souza Pegorare, ABG and Christofoletti, G}, title = {A Controlled Clinical Trial on the Effects of Aquatic Exercise on Cognitive Functions in Community-Dwelling Older Adults.}, journal = {Brain sciences}, volume = {14}, number = {7}, pages = {}, pmid = {39061443}, issn = {2076-3425}, support = {275/2022//Fundect/ ; }, abstract = {Several therapies have been developed to reduce cognitive decline associated with aging. Aquatic exercises, which are widely used to enhance functional capacity, may play a role in stimulating cognitive functions. This study investigated the effects of a 3-month aquatic exercise program on cognitive functions in community-dwelling older adults. In this prospective, single-blinded, controlled clinical trial, 31 participants were allocated to either the experimental (aquatic exercises) or control (no-exercise) group. The intervention program consisted of exercises conducted twice a week in a 1.2 m deep indoor pool. The main outcome measures were cognitive functions, assessed using Raven's Progressive Matrices test and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test. A repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to assess the impact of the exercise program. The effect sizes (η[2]p) were reported when a level of significance was achieved (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the participants who underwent aquatic exercises showed positive outcomes in Raven's Progressive Matrices test (p = 0.046; η[2]p = 0.131) and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (p = 0.001, η[2]p = 0.589). Complementary analyses of the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test indicated that the benefits of the aquatic exercise were observed in terms of the number of trials (p = 0.001, η[2]p = 0.478), number of errors (p = 0.001, η[2]p = 0.458), and number of non-perseverative errors (p = 0.001, η[2]p = 0.302). The results indicate that a period of three months of aquatic exercise was beneficial for stimulating specific aspects of the cognitive function of community-dwelling older individuals. Aquatic exercise should be prescribed to this population.}, }
@article {pmid39060612, year = {2024}, author = {Blackburn, G and Ashton, BJ and Thornton, A and Hunter, H and Woodiss-Field, S and Ridley, AR}, title = {Investigating the relationship between physical cognitive tasks and a social cognitive task in a wild bird.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {27}, number = {1}, pages = {52}, pmid = {39060612}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {DP200100566//ARC Discovery Grant/ ; DP200100566//ARC Discovery Grant/ ; DP200100566//ARC Discovery Grant/ ; DP200100566//ARC Discovery Grant/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; Male ; Female ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; Spatial Memory ; Social Cognition ; }, abstract = {Despite considerable research into the structure of cognition in non-human animal species, there is still much debate as to whether animal cognition is organised as a series of discrete domains or an overarching general cognitive factor. In humans, the existence of general intelligence is widely accepted, but less work has been undertaken in animal psychometrics to address this question. The relatively few studies on non-primate animal species that do investigate the structure of cognition rarely include tasks assessing social cognition and focus instead on physical cognitive tasks. In this study, we tested 36 wild Western Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen dorsalis) on a battery of three physical (associative learning, spatial memory, and numerical assessment) and one social (observational spatial memory) cognitive task, to investigate if cognition in this species fits a general cognitive factor model, or instead one of separate physical and social cognitive domains. A principal component analysis (PCA) identified two principal components with eigenvalues exceeding 1; a first component onto which all three physical tasks loaded strongly and positively, and a second component onto which only the social task (observational spatial memory) loaded strongly and positively. These findings provide tentative evidence for separate physical and social cognitive domains in this species, and highlight the importance of including tasks assessing both social and physical cognition in cognitive test batteries.}, }
@article {pmid39059727, year = {2024}, author = {McKechnie, AE and Freeman, MT and Kemp, R and Wolter, K and Naidoo, V}, title = {Effects of lead on avian thermoregulation in the heat: An experimental test with pied crows (Corvus albus).}, journal = {Environmental toxicology and pharmacology}, volume = {110}, number = {}, pages = {104519}, doi = {10.1016/j.etap.2024.104519}, pmid = {39059727}, issn = {1872-7077}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows/physiology ; *Body Temperature Regulation/drug effects ; *Lead/toxicity/blood ; *Hot Temperature ; Basal Metabolism/drug effects ; Male ; Water Loss, Insensible/drug effects ; Female ; Body Temperature/drug effects ; }, abstract = {Many of the negative physiological effects of lead involve the hypothalamus, but the possibility that thermoregulation is affected has received little attention. We tested the hypothesis that lead exposure reduces avian thermoregulatory performance under hot conditions in pied crows (Corvus albus) experimentally exposed to lead in their diet. Crows in our high lead treatment (blood [Pb] = 87.3 ± 44.7 μg dL[-1]) showed significantly higher air temperature (Tair) inflections for evaporative water loss (EWL) and resting metabolic rate (RMR) compared to control (6.4 ± 1.8 μg dL[-1]) or intermediate (53.9 ± 23.7 μg dL[-1]) lead groups, which did not differ. EWL, RMR and body temperature (Tb) all increased more rapidly at Tair > Tb in the high lead treatment. In contrast, neither maximum Tair tolerated by the crows nor maximum Tb varied with treatment. Our data reveal that water and energy balance during hot weather is affected by lead exposure.}, }
@article {pmid39057739, year = {2024}, author = {Gharaibeh, NY and De Fazio, R and Al-Naami, B and Al-Hinnawi, AR and Visconti, P}, title = {Automated Lung Cancer Diagnosis Applying Butterworth Filtering, Bi-Level Feature Extraction, and Sparce Convolutional Neural Network to Luna 16 CT Images.}, journal = {Journal of imaging}, volume = {10}, number = {7}, pages = {}, pmid = {39057739}, issn = {2313-433X}, abstract = {Accurate prognosis and diagnosis are crucial for selecting and planning lung cancer treatments. As a result of the rapid development of medical imaging technology, the use of computed tomography (CT) scans in pathology is becoming standard practice. An intricate interplay of requirements and obstacles characterizes computer-assisted diagnosis, which relies on the precise and effective analysis of pathology images. In recent years, pathology image analysis tasks such as tumor region identification, prognosis prediction, tumor microenvironment characterization, and metastasis detection have witnessed the considerable potential of artificial intelligence, especially deep learning techniques. In this context, an artificial intelligence (AI)-based methodology for lung cancer diagnosis is proposed in this research work. As a first processing step, filtering using the Butterworth smooth filter algorithm was applied to the input images from the LUNA 16 lung cancer dataset to remove noise without significantly degrading the image quality. Next, we performed the bi-level feature selection step using the Chaotic Crow Search Algorithm and Random Forest (CCSA-RF) approach to select features such as diameter, margin, spiculation, lobulation, subtlety, and malignancy. Next, the Feature Extraction step was performed using the Multi-space Image Reconstruction (MIR) method with Grey Level Co-occurrence Matrix (GLCM). Next, the Lung Tumor Severity Classification (LTSC) was implemented by using the Sparse Convolutional Neural Network (SCNN) approach with a Probabilistic Neural Network (PNN). The developed method can detect benign, normal, and malignant lung cancer images using the PNN algorithm, which reduces complexity and efficiently provides classification results. Performance parameters, namely accuracy, precision, F-score, sensitivity, and specificity, were determined to evaluate the effectiveness of the implemented hybrid method and compare it with other solutions already present in the literature.}, }
@article {pmid39050654, year = {2024}, author = {Nakashima, Y and Hashizume, A and Kanda, A}, title = {A statistical approach to assess interspecific consumptive competition and functional redundancy in ephemeral resource uses using camera traps.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {14}, number = {7}, pages = {e70031}, pmid = {39050654}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Camera traps have been widely used in wildlife research, offering significant potential for monitoring species interactions at ephemeral resources. However, raw data obtained from camera traps often face limitations due to observation censoring, where resource consumption by dominant animals may obscure potential resource use by less dominant animals. We extended time-to-detection occupancy modeling to quantify interspecific consumptive competition and redundancy of ecosystem functions through consumption between two species, while accounting for observation censoring. By treating resource use by rival species as censored data, we estimated the proportion of resources potentially used in the absence of rival species and calculated the loss caused by the rival species, which is defined as "Competition Intensity Index." We also defined the Unique Functional Contribution, which represents the net functional loss when a species is removed, calculated by excluding the contribution potentially substituted by the other species. We also considered resource degradation and computed the quantity of resources acquired by each species. This established framework was applied to predation data on bird nests by alien squirrels and other predators (Case 1) as well as scavenging on mammalian carcasses by two carnivores (Case 2). In Case 1, the introduction of squirrels significantly affected the breeding success of birds. Although nests were being preyed upon by native crows also, our model estimated that Unique Functional Contribution by the squirrels was 0.47. This means that, by eradicating the squirrels, the reproductive success of the birds could potentially increase by as much as 47%. In Case 2, the Competition Intensity Index for foxes was 0.17, whereas that for raccoon dogs was 0.46, suggesting an asymmetric effect of resource competition between the two species. The frequency distribution of wet mass available to the two species differed significantly. This approach will enable a more robust construction of resource-consumer interaction networks.}, }
@article {pmid39049707, year = {2024}, author = {Fujita, Y and Biswas, KB and Kawai, Y and Takayama, S and Masutani, T and Iddamalgoda, A and Sakamoto, K}, title = {Mentha piperita leaf extract suppresses the release of ATP from epidermal keratinocytes and reduces dermal thinning as well as wrinkle formation.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {46}, number = {6}, pages = {972-981}, doi = {10.1111/ics.12996}, pmid = {39049707}, issn = {1468-2494}, mesh = {Humans ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology ; *Keratinocytes/drug effects ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; *Adenosine Triphosphate/metabolism ; *Plant Leaves/chemistry ; *Mentha piperita/chemistry ; Adult ; Cells, Cultured ; Female ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To achieve a more beautiful and younger appearance, reducing wrinkles is a key concern. The process of wrinkle formation is complex and the development of truly effective cosmetic ingredients to reduce wrinkles remains a challenge. Recent studies have revealed a close relationship between wrinkles and skin thinning, suggesting that preventing skin thinning could also prevent wrinkle formation. In this study, we examined the role of extracellular adenosine triphosphate (eATP) in the progression of thinning, as eATP reportedly increases skin ageing factors, such as senescence-associated secreted phenotype (SASP) factors in epidermal cells. We determined the effects of Mentha piperita leaf extract on suppressing eATP to reduce thinning and wrinkles.<br><br>METHODS: Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels were measured in normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK) in the presence of M.&#x2009;piperita leaf extract. Dryness, high pH, and UVB radiation were used as extrinsic ageing factors. Intrinsic skin ageing was evaluated by comparing cells from adults (AD-NHEK) and newborns (NB-NHEK). A placebo-controlled in&#xa0;vivo study was carried out with a formulation containing 1% M.&#x2009;piperita leaf extract.<br><br>RESULTS: The eATP levels were significantly higher in AD-NHEK compared with that in NB-NHEK cells. M.&#x2009;piperita leaf extract significantly decreased eATP levels in adult cells. Extrinsic ageing factors increased eATP levels in NHEK, whereas M.&#x2009;piperita leaf extract significantly suppressed eATP under all conditions. The active components of M.&#x2009;piperita leaf extract, luteolin glucuronide and rosmarinic acid, also decreased eATP. Moreover, compared with placebo lotion, M.&#x2009;piperita leaf extract-formulated lotion markedly increased dermal thickness and reduced wrinkles associated with crow's feet and the neck area.<br><br>CONCLUSION: We demonstrated for the first time that M.&#x2009;piperita leaf extract containing rosmarinic acid and luteolin-7-O-glucuronide has the potential to reduce eATP release from epidermal keratinocytes. An increase in eATP was observed not only during inflammation but also during natural ageing. Furthermore, the in&#xa0;vivo experiment revealing that 1% M.&#x2009;piperita leaf extract-containing lotion improved dermal thinning and wrinkles across multiple areas is attributed to the amelioration of dermal thinning. Thus, our data suggest the possibility of a novel cosmetic approach for reducing skin ageing by reducing eATP-mediated dermal thinning.}, }
@article {pmid39044204, year = {2024}, author = {Mohanty, SK and Wadasadawala, T and Sen, S and Maiti, S and E, J}, title = {Catastrophic health expenditure and distress financing of breast cancer treatment in India: evidence from a longitudinal cohort study.}, journal = {International journal for equity in health}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {145}, pmid = {39044204}, issn = {1475-9276}, mesh = {Humans ; *Breast Neoplasms/economics/therapy ; Female ; India ; *Health Expenditures/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Longitudinal Studies ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; Catastrophic Illness/economics ; Cohort Studies ; Aged ; Financing, Personal/statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To estimate the catastrophic health expenditure and distress financing of breast cancer treatment in India.<br><br>METHODS: The unit data from a longitudinal survey that followed 500 breast cancer patients treated at Tata Memorial Centre (TMC), Mumbai from June 2019 to March 2022 were used. The catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) was estimated using households' capacity to pay and distress financing as selling assets or borrowing loans to meet cost of treatment. Bivariate and logistic regression models were used for analysis.<br><br>FINDINGS: The CHE of breast cancer was estimated at 84.2% (95% CI: 80.8,87.9%) and distress financing at 72.4% (95% CI: 67.8,76.6%). Higher prevalence of CHE and distress financing was found among rural, poor, agriculture dependent households and among patients from outside of Maharashtra. About 75% of breast cancer patients had some form of reimbursement but it reduced the incidence of catastrophic health expenditure by only 14%. Nearly 80% of the patients utilised multiple financing sources to meet the cost of treatment. The significant predictors of distress financing were catastrophic health expenditure, type of patient, educational attainment, main income source, health insurance, and state of residence.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In India, the CHE and distress financing of breast cancer treatment is very high. Most of the patients who had CHE were more likely to incur distress financing. Inclusion of direct non-medical cost such as accommodation, food and travel of patients and accompanying person in the ambit of reimbursement of breast cancer treatment can reduce the CHE. We suggest that city specific cancer care centre need to be strengthened under the aegis of PM-JAY to cater quality cancer care in their own states of residence.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION: CTRI/2019/07/020142 on 10/07/2019.}, }
@article {pmid39041009, year = {2024}, author = {Bonde, BM and Stien, A}, title = {Ecological implications of the pink salmon invasion in northern Norway-Aggregative responses and terrestrial transfer by white-tailed eagles.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {14}, number = {7}, pages = {e70001}, pmid = {39041009}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Over the last 10 years, the spawning population of invasive pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) has increased in the river systems in northern Norway to a level that is causing concern about their impact on endemic fauna and ecosystem processes. The scale of transfer of pink salmon carcasses into the terrestrial ecosystem is likely to be a key determinant of terrestrial impact. Bears (Ursus sp.) are responsible for most such transfers in North America but are rare in Norway. The white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla) is common however, and a candidate to be a main cause of such transfers. To evaluate this hypothesis, data on the abundance of white-tailed eagles and pink salmon were collected along the river Skallelv in northern Norway in 2021, a year the pink salmon spawned in the river, and in 2022, a year no pink salmon spawned in the river. The abundance of white-tailed eagles along the river was much higher the year pink salmon spawned in the river. Furthermore, white-tailed eagles were observed aggregating and catching pink salmon where and when pink salmon were present at the spawning and post-spawning stages. Based on our observations, we suggest that the white-tailed eagle is the main species involved in the transport of pink salmon from the river into the riparian zone in northern Norway and that other scavengers, in particular the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and common raven (Corvus corax), play an important role in transporting pink salmon carcasses from the riparian zone to the wider terrestrial ecosystem.}, }
@article {pmid39030682, year = {2024}, author = {Varnado, K and Richardson, S and Somyoo, N and Mejia-Downs, A and Dial, M}, title = {How Integrating the 5 Pillars of Community Practice Can Transform Physical Therapist Education and Reduce Health Disparities.}, journal = {Physical therapy}, volume = {104}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1093/ptj/pzae103}, pmid = {39030682}, issn = {1538-6724}, mesh = {Humans ; *Physical Therapy Specialty/education ; United States ; Healthcare Disparities ; Social Determinants of Health ; Physical Therapists/education ; Cultural Diversity ; Cultural Competency ; }, abstract = {Patient history assists clinicians in determining the most appropriate tests to identify the symptoms' source and select appropriate interventions. Therefore, a subjective history is an essential component of patient management. When physical therapist practitioners transition into academia, they must understand how the history of the education system may affect learners. Health disparities are related to the lack of workforce diversity and skills in cultural responsiveness, and the education system is critical in addressing the impact of future providers on health disparities. Developing a doctor of physical therapy program to address health disparities requires an analysis of the historical context of the US educational and health care systems, along with traditional components of physical therapist education. This country's education system was built upon a 2-tiered system, where minoritized individuals struggled to overcome barriers imposed by legislation and societal beliefs. Jim Crow laws continued this unequal access to education, and the recent Supreme Court ruling to deny race-based affirmative action continues these inequities. This historical context informed the construction of the College of Saint Mary Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. The program's mission led to using less traditional educational approaches; thus, the pillars of practice took form. The 5 pillars evolved to include social determinants, inclusive faculty and student recruitment and retention practices, equitable grading, culturally responsive pedagogy, and community development. The purpose of this paper is to present a historical overview of the US education system and its influence on physical therapist education. Furthermore, it will illustrate how this historical context inspired the 5 Pillars of Community Practice from College of Saint Mary and discuss the challenges and interventions related to these pillars. There are tremendous disparities in educational outcomes and patient services in the United States. Disparities are most significant in those with historically marginalized identities. If those disparities are to improve, a change is required in the people providing care to patients. The best way to accomplish this is by transforming how future providers are educated.}, }
@article {pmid39017034, year = {2024}, author = {Yi, KH and Wan, J}, title = {Anatomical considerations of medial eye wrinkles: Guidelines for botulinum neurotoxin injections.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {23}, number = {11}, pages = {3503-3507}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.16474}, pmid = {39017034}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Humans ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Female ; Cosmetic Techniques/adverse effects/standards ; Middle Aged ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Neuromuscular Agents/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Facial Muscles/drug effects/anatomy &amp; histology ; Eyelids/drug effects ; Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Acetylcholine Release Inhibitors/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; }, abstract = {Crow's feet lines in the lateral canthal region are a common concern among aging patients, initially appearing as dynamic wrinkles during facial expressions and becoming more pronounced with age. Botulinum neurotoxin temporarily paralyzes muscles by inhibiting acetylcholine release, smoothing wrinkles and enhancing skin's youthful appearance. Effective treatment requires tailored approaches considering individual anatomy and muscle activity. Recent cadaveric studies identified the tear trough muscle, emphasizing its role in infraorbital support and aging. Clinically, patients often present medial eye wrinkles after BoNT treatment for crow's feet, prompting exploration of underlying mechanisms and management strategies. Three cases demonstrated that medial BoNT injections in the orbicularis oculi muscle significantly improve medial eye wrinkles and tear trough appearance. The study underscores the importance of understanding muscle hyperactivity and anatomical variations for precise treatment. Enhanced injection techniques targeting specific areas can achieve better outcomes and minimize complications, particularly in culturally sensitive regions where facial expressions are valued. This research highlights the necessity for comprehensive anatomical knowledge and patient-specific treatment strategies to address medial eye wrinkles effectively.}, }
@article {pmid39005308, year = {2024}, author = {Di Tullio, RW and Wei, L and Balasubramanian, V}, title = {Slow and steady: auditory features for discriminating animal vocalizations.}, journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {39005308}, issn = {2692-8205}, support = {R01 EB026945/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {We propose that listeners can use temporal regularities - spectro-temporal correlations that change smoothly over time - to discriminate animal vocalizations within and between species. To test this idea, we used Slow Feature Analysis (SFA) to find the most temporally regular components of vocalizations from birds (blue jay, house finch, American yellow warbler, and great blue heron), humans (English speakers), and rhesus macaques. We projected vocalizations into the learned feature space and tested intra-class (same speaker/species) and inter-class (different speakers/species) auditory discrimination by a trained classifier. We found that: 1) Vocalization discrimination was excellent (> 95%) in all cases; 2) Performance depended primarily on the ~10 most temporally regular features; 3) Most vocalizations are dominated by ~10 features with high temporal regularity; and 4) These regular features are highly correlated with the most predictable components of animal sounds.}, }
@article {pmid38989962, year = {2024}, author = {Warma, S and Warma, H and Merja, A and Patel, N and Patel, M}, title = {Revitalizing skin, hair, nails, and muscles: Unlocking beauty and wellness with vegan collagen.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {23}, number = {11}, pages = {3740-3756}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.16443}, pmid = {38989962}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Humans ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; *Collagen/administration &amp; dosage ; Female ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; *Hair/drug effects/growth &amp; development ; Male ; Nails/drug effects ; Vegans ; Beauty ; Muscle Strength/drug effects ; Skin/drug effects ; Elasticity/drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Collagen, a key protein in the body maintains hair, skin and bone health and its production tends to decrease in synthesis as humans age. The demand for vegan collagen-builder has increased worldwide due to increased adaptability to vegan diet.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: This clinical study was designed aim to evaluate the safety and efficacy of vegan collagen builder (VEGCOL&#x2122;&#xfe0f;) at different dosages (2.5, 5, and 10&#x2009;g) in adult participants.<br><br>METHODS: Total 66 subjects (22 subjects/dose) aged 30 to 50&#x2009;years were enrolled, and 63 subjects completed the study. Duration of study was 60&#x2009;days. Evaluations included change in skin elasticity, hydration, crow's feet area wrinkles, fine lines, skin, Glogau skin age, change in pain scale score, muscle strength and subject perception assessment about test treatment use.<br><br>RESULTS: After 60&#x2009;days of treatment, there was significant improvement in hair growth rate by 45.01%, 38.54% and 50.37% with p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.01 for doses 2.5, 5, and 10&#x2009;g respectively. Additionally, 19.64% (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.0001) and 20.51% (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.0001) increase in hair density and hair thickness respectively was observed with 10&#x2009;g dose. 2.5&#x2009;g dose resulted in 33.03% (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.01) increase in skin smoothness and 49.94% (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.0001) decrease in crow's feet area wrinkles, decreased retraction time by 21.71 milliseconds (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). 52.54% reduction in pain score (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001). No any adverse events were reported.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Vegan collagen-builder effectively improved multiple age-related concerns such as wrinkles, fine lines, joint pain, muscle strength and hair growth. All respondents perceived the product as beneficial in improving the aesthetics of the skin, hair, and nails. The findings support the use of vegan collagen-builder as safe and efficacious in promoting healthier skin, stronger muscles, and improved hair and nail conditions.}, }
@article {pmid38989559, year = {2024}, author = {Rodriguez, DCP and Weber, KC and Sundberg, B and Glasgow, A}, title = {MAGPIE: An interactive tool for visualizing and analyzing protein-ligand interactions.}, journal = {Protein science : a publication of the Protein Society}, volume = {33}, number = {8}, pages = {e5027}, pmid = {38989559}, issn = {1469-896X}, support = {R00GM135529/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Software ; Ligands ; *Proteins/chemistry/metabolism ; Protein Binding ; Models, Molecular ; }, abstract = {Quantitative tools to compile and analyze biomolecular interactions among chemically diverse binding partners would improve therapeutic design and aid in studying molecular evolution. Here we present Mapping Areas of Genetic Parsimony In Epitopes (MAGPIE), a publicly available software package for simultaneously visualizing and analyzing thousands of interactions between a single protein or small molecule ligand (the "target") and all of its protein binding partners ("binders"). MAGPIE generates an interactive three-dimensional visualization from a set of protein complex structures that share the target ligand, as well as sequence logo-style amino acid frequency graphs that show all the amino acids from the set of protein binders that interact with user-defined target ligand positions or chemical groups. MAGPIE highlights all the salt bridge and hydrogen bond interactions made by the target in the visualization and as separate amino acid frequency graphs. Finally, MAGPIE collates the most common target-binder interactions as a list of "hotspots," which can be used to analyze trends or guide the de novo design of protein binders. As an example of the utility of the program, we used MAGPIE to probe how different antibody fragments bind a viral antigen; how a common metabolite binds diverse protein partners; and how two ligands bind orthologs of a well-conserved glycolytic enzyme for a detailed understanding of evolutionarily conserved interactions involved in its activation and inhibition. MAGPIE is implemented in Python 3 and freely available at https://github.com/glasgowlab/MAGPIE, along with sample datasets, usage examples, and helper scripts to prepare input structures.}, }
@article {pmid38989155, year = {2023}, author = {Guzmán Naranjo, M and Jäger, G}, title = {Euclide, the crow, the wolf and the pedestrian: distance metrics for linguistic typology.}, journal = {Open research Europe}, volume = {3}, number = {}, pages = {104}, pmid = {38989155}, issn = {2732-5121}, abstract = {It is common for people working on linguistic geography, language contact and typology to make use of some type of distance metric between lects. However, most work so far has either used Euclidean distances, or geodesic distance, both of which do not represent the real separation between communities very accurately. This paper presents two datasets: one on walking distances and one on topographic distances between over 8700 lects across all macro-areas. We calculated walking distances using Open Street Maps data, and topographic distances using digital elevation data. We evaluate these distance metrics on three case studies and show that from the four distances, the topographic and geodesic distances showed the most consistent performance across datasets, and would be likely to be reasonable first choices. At the same time, in most cases, the Euclidean distances were not much worse than the other distances, and might be a good enough approximation in cases for which performance is critical, or the dataset cover very large areas, and the point-location information is not very precise.}, }
@article {pmid38980174, year = {2024}, author = {Kawar, K}, title = {Retracted: The Relationship Between Oral and Written Language in Narrative Production by Arabic-Speaking Children: Fundamental Skills and Influences.}, journal = {Journal of speech, language, and hearing research : JSLHR}, volume = {67}, number = {11}, pages = {4534-4548}, doi = {10.1044/2024_JSLHR-23-00717}, pmid = {38980174}, issn = {1558-9102}, abstract = {NOTICE OF RETRACTION: https://doi.org/10.1044/2024_Nov2024ASHA.<br><br>PURPOSE: This study aims to investigate the relationship between oral and written language skills in narrative production among Arabic-speaking children, focusing on cognitive and linguistic abilities. It examines the differences in narrative parameters between oral and written narratives and explores the associations between these parameters and cognitive and linguistic skills.<br><br>METHOD: The research involved 237 sixth-grade Arabic-speaking students from low-socioeconomic status schools in Israel. Each participant was instructed to orally tell a narrative and to write another narrative based on two sets of six sequential pictures. Various narrative features were analyzed, including word count for length, type-token ratio (TTR) for lexical diversity, mean length of utterance (MLU) for morphosyntax, and number of episodes for macrostructure. Cognitive linguistic measures, including Raven's Progressive Matrices, reading comprehension (RC), and morphological awareness (MA) were also assessed.<br><br>RESULTS: The study found significant differences between oral and written narratives regarding lexical diversity and macrostructure. Participants exhibited significantly higher TTR in written narratives compared to oral narratives, whereas the number of episodes was significantly higher in oral narratives than in written ones. However, no significant differences were observed in narrative length or MLU. Moreover, the study identified significant predictors for various aspects of written narratives, particularly MA and RC, which significantly predicted TTR, MLU, and macrostructure. Additionally, the inclusion of word count in oral narratives significantly enhanced the explained variance for narrative length and macrostructure in written language.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The results highlight the importance of the oral-written interface in both micro- and macrostructure representations in both oral and written modalities. They suggest that cognitive and linguistic skills, such as MA and RC, play a crucial role in narrative production. The findings have implications for educational practices and literacy outcomes in the Arab world, enhancing the understanding of the challenges and strategies involved in written language production among Arabic-speaking children.}, }
@article {pmid38965805, year = {2024}, author = {Robic, J and Lata, W and Nkengne, A and Bigouret, A and Vie, K}, title = {The impact of air pollution on the facial skin of Caucasian women using real-life pollutant exposure measurements.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {30}, number = {7}, pages = {e13669}, pmid = {38965805}, issn = {1600-0846}, support = {//Laboratoires Clarins/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Young Adult ; *Air Pollution/adverse effects ; *Environmental Exposure/adverse effects ; Environmental Monitoring/methods ; *Face ; Geographic Information Systems ; Paris ; *Particulate Matter/adverse effects ; Pollen ; Skin/drug effects ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; Smartphone ; White People ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: To date, studies examining the effect of air pollution on skin characteristics have relied on regional pollution estimates obtained from fixed monitoring sites. Hence, there remains a need to characterize the impact of air pollution in vivo in real-time conditions. We conducted an initial investigation under real-life conditions, with the purpose of characterizing the in vivo impact of various pollutants on the facial skin condition of women living in Paris over a 6-month period.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: A smartphone application linked to the Breezometer platform was used to collect participants' individual exposures to pollutants through the recovery of global positioning system (GPS) data over a 6-month period. Daily exposure to fine particulate matter (PM 2.5&#xa0;&#xb5;m and PM 10&#xa0;&#xb5;m), pollen, and air quality was measured. Facial skin color, roughness, pore, hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle measurements were taken at the end of the 6-month period. Participants' cumulated pollutant exposure over 6 months was calculated. Data were stratified into two groups (lower vs. higher pollutant exposure) for each pollutant.<br><br>RESULTS: 156 women (20-60 years-old) were recruited, with 124 women completing the study. Higher PM 2.5&#xa0;&#xb5;m exposure was associated with altered skin color and increased roughness under the eye. Higher PM 10&#xa0;&#xb5;m exposure with increased wrinkles and roughness under the eye, increased pore appearance, and decreased skin hydration. Exposure to poorer air quality was linked with increased forehead wrinkles and decreased skin elasticity, while higher pollen exposure increased skin roughness and crow's feet.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study suggests a potential correlation between air pollution and facial skin in real-life conditions. Prolonged exposure to PM, gases, and pollen may be linked to clinical signs of skin ageing. This study highlights the importance of longer monitoring over time in real conditions to characterize the effect of pollution on the skin.}, }
@article {pmid38962998, year = {2024}, author = {Factor, L and Vasconcellos, GSFM and Carvalho, VV and Acedo, T and Cortinhas, C and Chebel, RC and Baruselli, PS}, title = {Effects of supplementation of grazing Nellore cows with β-carotene and vitamins A + D3 + E + biotin on follicle diameter, oestrus, establishment of pregnancy, and foetal morphometry.}, journal = {Reproduction in domestic animals = Zuchthygiene}, volume = {59}, number = {7}, pages = {e14660}, doi = {10.1111/rda.14660}, pmid = {38962998}, issn = {1439-0531}, mesh = {Animals ; Cattle ; Female ; Pregnancy ; *Vitamin A/administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology ; *Dietary Supplements ; *beta Carotene/administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology ; *Vitamin E/administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology ; *Estrus/drug effects ; *Biotin/administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology ; Cholecalciferol/pharmacology/administration &amp; dosage ; Ovarian Follicle/drug effects ; Diet/veterinary ; Vitamins/administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology ; Animal Feed ; Lactation ; Fetus/drug effects ; }, abstract = {The objectives of this experiment were to evaluate the effects of supplementation of Nellore (Bos indicus) cows with β-carotene + vitamins A + D3 + E + biotin on body condition score (BCS), oestrus, pregnancy, and foetal morphometry. Lactating cows (n = 497) from two herds were balanced for BCS and calving period [early calving (EC); late calving (LC)] and were assigned randomly to: Control (n = 251)-supplementation with a mineral supplement; and SUP (n = 246)-supplementation with the mineral supplement fed to control + β-carotene (150 mg/day) + vitamin A (40,000 IU/day) + vitamin D3 (5000 IU/day) + vitamin E (300 mg/day) + biotin (20 mg/day). Cows were supplemented from Days -30 to 30 (Day 0 = timed artificial insemination; TAI). Pregnancy was diagnosed 30 days after TAI and foetal crown-rump distance and thoracic diameter were measured at 30 and 77 days of gestation. Cows in the SUP treatment were more likely to have BCS ≥3.0 on Day 0 (63.0 ± 3.1 vs. 60.2 ± 3.1; p < .01) and were more likely to gain BCS from Days -30 to 30 (57.7 ± 3.3 vs. 44.1 ± 3.3%; p < .01). Fewer LC cows in the SUP treatment were detected in oestrus at the time of the first TAI (Control: LC: 75.4 ± 4.4 vs. SUP: LC: 64.0 ± 5.2 vs. Control: EC: 65.3 ± 4.0 vs. SUP: EC: 71.8 ± 3.7; p = .04). There was a tendency for the SUP treatment to increase pregnancy to the first TAI (64.2 ± 3.0 vs. 56.6 ± 3.1%; p = .08). A greater percentage of SUP cows was detected in oestrus at the time of the second TAI (70.1 ± 5.0 vs. 52.3 ± 4.8%; p = .01). The SUP treatment increased pregnancy to the second TAI among LC cows (SUP: LC: 75.9 ± 8.0% vs. Control: LC: 50.0 ± 8.3% vs. Control: EC: 52.0 ± 5.9% vs. SUP: EC: 41.4 ± 6.5%; p = .02). The SUP treatment increased foetal size (crown-rump; p = .04 and thoracic diameter; p < .01) at 30 days of gestation and, despite decreasing crow-rump length at 77 days after the first TAI among EC cows (p < .01), it increased the thoracic diameter at 77 days after the first TAI independent of calving season. Our results support that pregnancy establishment and foetal growth can be improved when grazing Nellore cows are supplemented with β-carotene and vitamins A + D3 + E + biotin.}, }
@article {pmid38954382, year = {2024}, author = {de Almeida, AT and de Sanctis Pecora, C and Marques, ER and Contin, L and de Almeida, CT and da Cunha, AL}, title = {Assessment of the Efficacy and Durability of IncobotulinumtoxinA in the Treatment of the Upper Face in Adult Women.}, journal = {Dermatology and therapy}, volume = {14}, number = {8}, pages = {2093-2108}, pmid = {38954382}, issn = {2193-8210}, support = {001/2022//Merz Pharmaceuticals/ ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: IncobotulinumtoxinA (Xeomin®) is used in the treatment of dynamic wrinkles and the aesthetic repositioning of facial structures. The duration of its muscular effect typically extends for around 4 months. However, the residual aesthetic benefit can be observed for a longer period. To date, the long-term aesthetic benefit of incobotulinumtoxinA in facial aesthetics has not been systematically evaluated. This study aimed to evaluate longitudinally the duration and aesthetic benefits of incobotulinumtoxinA in the treatment of the upper face in adult women.<br><br>METHODS: A quasi-experimental, evaluator-blind, clinical trial involving 28 adult women (30-60&#xa0;years old) with facial movement lines, undergoing treatment of the upper face with incobotulinumtoxinA by two injectors, following an individualized protocol (ONE21 and glabellar contraction patterns) was performed. Participants were evaluated on the day of the intervention (day&#xa0;0) and days&#xa0;30, 120, 180, and 240, and subjected to standardized photographs. The following outcomes were evaluated blindly at each visit: Merz Aesthetics Facial Contraction Scale (MAS), GAIS (Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale), and patient satisfaction. Adverse effects were evaluated at each visit.<br><br>RESULTS: Participants ranged in age from 30 to 60&#xa0;years, 93% were self-declared white, and most of their baseline MAS scores for dynamic lines were moderate and severe. All the parameters presented significative reduction from baseline until day&#xa0;180. At day&#xa0;240, the dynamic MAS scores were lower than baseline for forehead lines in 15.4% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.8-30.0%) of the participants, for glabellar lines in 38.5% (95%&#xa0;CI 18.8-58.1%), and for crow's feet lines in 26.9% (95%&#xa0;CI 9.0-44.8%). Aesthetic improvement compared to baseline was identified in 35% (CI 95% 23&#x2012;50%) of the participants at day&#xa0;240, and 62% (CI 95% 42&#x2012;81%) of the sample kept reporting some satisfaction with the procedure.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The aesthetic treatment of the upper face with incobotulinumtoxinA demonstrates enduring clinical benefits, and patient satisfaction lasting up to 180&#xa0;days in most participants. The length of efficacy, which exceeded those reported in the literature, may be attributed to the use of techniques based on individualized assessment such as ONE21 and glabellar patterns of contraction.}, }
@article {pmid38951235, year = {2025}, author = {Battista, P and Aresta, S and Tagliente, S and Merlo, F and Mongelli, D and Lagravinese, G and Falcone, R and Palmirotta, C and Turi, G and Castellari, M and Zonno, A and Gelao, C and Picciola, E and Fiore, P and Battel, I and Minafra, B}, title = {Exploring the Neuropsychological Correlates of Swallowing Disorders in People with Parkinson's Disease: a Cross-Sectional Study.}, journal = {Dysphagia}, volume = {40}, number = {1}, pages = {292-304}, pmid = {38951235}, issn = {1432-0460}, mesh = {Humans ; *Parkinson Disease/complications/physiopathology/psychology ; *Deglutition Disorders/physiopathology/etiology/psychology ; Male ; Female ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Aged ; *Executive Function/physiology ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Middle Aged ; *Attention/physiology ; Deglutition/physiology ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {Around 80% of persons with Parkinson's disease (PD) present symptoms of dysphagia. Although cognitive impairment may contribute to dysphagia, few studies have investigated the association between the PD neuropsychological profile and objective measures of swallowing dysfunction. Since the swallowing function comprises involuntary but also voluntary actions, we hypothesize that specific measures of attention and executive functions can be underlined in PD-related dysphagia. Therefore, the aim of this study was to extensively investigate the correlation and the relationship between attentive and executive functions and safety/efficiency of pharyngeal phase of swallowing in people with PD. All participants received a fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing and were evaluated using the Penetration Aspiration Scale (PAS); the Yale Pharyngeal Residue Severity Rating Scale (IT-YPRSRS), and the Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS-IT). Participants also underwent a neuropsychological assessment covering global cognitive status, attention, and frontal executive functions. Correlations and associations between neuropsychological measures and swallowing components were calculated. Twenty-one participants with PD (mean age 69.38 ± 6.58 years, mean disease duration 8.38 ± 5.31 years; mean MDS-UPDRS III 43.95 ± 24.18) completed all evaluations. The most significant correlations were found between attentive functions (i.e., Stroop Time), and executive functions (i.e., Raven's Progressive Matrices, Digit Backward and Semantic Fluency), and FOIS-IT, PAS, and IT-YPRSRS sinuses and valleculae. These associations were not influenced by disease duration. These results suggest that a dysfunction to attentional processes and/or to executive functions can contribute to penetration and the presence of pharyngeal residue in participants with middle-stage PD.}, }
@article {pmid38949222, year = {2024}, author = {Zhang, X and Wu, G and Qiu, C and Yang, W and Yao, T and Zhang, Z and He, Y}, title = {Research Progress of Central Serous Chorioretinopathy in Recent 20 Years Based on Visual Bibliometric Analysis.}, journal = {Seminars in ophthalmology}, volume = {39}, number = {8}, pages = {639-650}, doi = {10.1080/08820538.2024.2373268}, pmid = {38949222}, issn = {1744-5205}, mesh = {*Central Serous Chorioretinopathy/diagnosis ; Humans ; *Bibliometrics ; *Biomedical Research ; Tomography, Optical Coherence/methods ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To dynamically track the publications on central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) and depict the research status and hot spots to guide future research.<br><br>METHODS: Gather all papers published in this area between 2004 and 2024 in the WOSCC databases comprehensively, assess their trends, and characterize the contributions of various nations, authors, institutions, and journals. In addition, VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and R software are used to obtain the most popular keywords for the topic.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 2,203 papers were published across 1,863 institutions in 59 countries. Among these, 6,907 authors contributed to publications in 300 journals and generated a total of 35,638 citations. The number of publications continues to grow steadily. Notably, Jay Chhablani's team/Lab stands out as the leading contributor with ownership of 84 publications. Through keyword network analysis and clustering techniques, risk factor-related clustering, imaging-related clustering, pathogenesis-related clustering, and treatment-related clustering were identified. Furthermore, keyword analysis has unveiled emerging frontier areas including pachychoroid disease, choroidal vasculature abnormalities, PDT therapy, and optical coherence tomography that have garnered increasing interest.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study presents a comprehensive review of central serous retinopathy research conducted in the past two decades, highlighting key trends and exploring emerging research frontiers within this field. As such, it provides valuable references and suggestions for researchers engaged in studying this topic.}, }
@article {pmid38948655, year = {2024}, author = {Isik, K and Odabaşı, Z}, title = {An interesting cause of wrist drop: The crow position in yoga and hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies.}, journal = {Turkish journal of physical medicine and rehabilitation}, volume = {70}, number = {2}, pages = {282-284}, pmid = {38948655}, issn = {2587-1250}, abstract = {Hereditary neuropathy with liability pressure palsies (HNPP) is usually caused by compression and is an episodic, painless, recurrent hereditary neuropathy with focal motor and sensory involvement. It begins in adolescence and young adulthood. The most commonly affected nerves in HNPP are the ulnar, peroneal, radial, and median nerves. In this article, we present a 31-year-old female patient with a previously undescribed case of HNPP, which presented with wrist drop due to the trapping of the radial nerve in the spiral groove after the crow position in yoga.}, }
@article {pmid38948538, year = {2024}, author = {Cavill, EL and Morales, HE and Sun, X and Westbury, MV and van Oosterhout, C and Accouche, W and Zora, A and Schulze, MJ and Shah, N and Adam, PA and Brooke, ML and Sweet, P and Gopalakrishnan, S and Gilbert, MTP}, title = {When birds of a feather flock together: Severe genomic erosion and the implications for genetic rescue in an endangered island passerine.}, journal = {Evolutionary applications}, volume = {17}, number = {7}, pages = {e13739}, pmid = {38948538}, issn = {1752-4571}, abstract = {The Seychelles magpie-robin's (SMR) five island populations exhibit some of the lowest recorded levels of genetic diversity among endangered birds, and high levels of inbreeding. These populations collapsed during the 20th century, and the species was listed as Critically Endangered in the IUCN Red List in 1994. An assisted translocation-for-recovery program initiated in the 1990s increased the number of mature individuals, resulting in its downlisting to Endangered in 2005. Here, we explore the temporal genomic erosion of the SMR based on a dataset of 201 re-sequenced whole genomes that span the past ~150 years. Our sample set includes individuals that predate the bottleneck by up to 100 years, as well as individuals from contemporary populations established during the species recovery program. Despite the SMR's recent demographic recovery, our data reveal a marked increase in both the genetic load and realized load in the extant populations when compared to the historical samples. Conservation management may have reduced the intensity of selection by increasing juvenile survival and relaxing intraspecific competition between individuals, resulting in the accumulation of loss-of-function mutations (i.e. severely deleterious variants) in the rapidly recovering population. In addition, we found a 3-fold decrease in genetic diversity between temporal samples. While the low genetic diversity in modern populations may limit the species' adaptability to future environmental changes, future conservation efforts (including IUCN assessments) may also need to assess the threats posed by their high genetic load. Our computer simulations highlight the value of translocations for genetic rescue and show how this could halt genomic erosion in threatened species such as the SMR.}, }
@article {pmid38945195, year = {2024}, author = {Desai, JK and Trangadia, BJ and Patel, UD and Patel, HB and Kalaria, VA and Kathiriya, JB}, title = {Reply to comment on "Neurotoxicity of 4-nonylphenol in adult zebrafish: Evaluation of behaviour, oxidative stress parameters and histopathology of brain" by Jay K. Desai. et al. [Environmental Pollution 334 (2023): 122206].}, journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)}, volume = {357}, number = {}, pages = {124441}, doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124441}, pmid = {38945195}, issn = {1873-6424}, mesh = {Animals ; *Phenols/toxicity ; *Zebrafish ; *Oxidative Stress/drug effects ; *Brain/drug effects/metabolism ; Behavior, Animal/drug effects ; Water Pollutants, Chemical/toxicity ; Neurotoxicity Syndromes ; }, }
@article {pmid38943372, year = {2024}, author = {Beran, F and Heckel, DG}, title = {Escalation by duplication: Milkweed bug trumps Monarch butterfly.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {33}, number = {14}, pages = {e17443}, doi = {10.1111/mec.17443}, pmid = {38943372}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Butterflies/genetics ; *Sodium-Potassium-Exchanging ATPase/genetics/metabolism ; *Asclepias/genetics/chemistry ; Cardenolides ; Gene Duplication ; Cardiac Glycosides/pharmacology ; Larva ; }, abstract = {The iconic Monarch butterfly is probably the best-known example of chemical defence against predation, as pictures of vomiting naive blue jays in countless textbooks vividly illustrate. Larvae of the butterfly take up toxic cardiac glycosides from their milkweed hostplants and carry them over to the adult stage. These compounds (cardiotonic steroids, including cardenolides and bufadienolides) inhibit the animal transmembrane sodium-potassium ATPase (Na,K-ATPase), but the Monarch enzyme resists this inhibition thanks to amino acid substitutions in its catalytic alpha-subunit. Some birds also have substitutions and can feast on cardiac glycoside-sequestering insects with impunity. A flurry of recent work has shown how the alpha-subunit gene has been duplicated multiple times in separate insect lineages specializing in cardiac glycoside-producing plants. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Herbertz et al. toss the beta-subunit into the mix, by expressing all nine combinations of three alpha- and three beta-subunits of the milkweed bug Na,K-ATPase and testing their response to a cardenolide from the hostplant. The findings suggest that the diversification and subfunctionalization of genes allow milkweed bugs to balance trade-offs between resistance towards sequestered host plant toxins that protect the bugs from predators, and physiological costs in terms of Na,K-ATPase activity.}, }
@article {pmid38937886, year = {2025}, author = {Dassanayake, TL and Ariyasinghe, DI and Baminiwatta, A and Hewawasam, C}, title = {Age-stratified norms for Raven's standard progressive matrices for Sri Lankan adults.}, journal = {The Clinical neuropsychologist}, volume = {39}, number = {1}, pages = {203-217}, doi = {10.1080/13854046.2024.2370908}, pmid = {38937886}, issn = {1744-4144}, mesh = {Humans ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; Male ; Female ; Sri Lanka ; Adolescent ; Young Adult ; Aged ; Reference Values ; Age Factors ; *Aging/physiology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to create age-stratified norms for the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) for Sri Lankan adults.<br><br>METHODS: A sample of 610 adults (age: 18-72&#x2009;years; education: 1-19&#x2009;years), underwent the 60-item version of the SPM under individual supervision of a test administrator. The sample was stratified into 5-year age bands, and the norms are presented as percentile tables and percentile curves.<br><br>RESULTS: The age-related changes were more accurately predicted by a curvilinear model (overall R[2] = 0.961) than a linear regression model (R[2] = 0.639). The SPM norms are presented as age-stratified percentile tables, as well as sex-, age- and education-adjusted multiple regression equations. The highest percentiles in the younger end of the age spectrum showed a ceiling effect. In the context of age-stratified US (1993) and British (1992) norms, older individuals in the Sri Lankan sample scored much lower than their Western counterparts. However, the difference narrowed in the younger age bands, showing no difference among the 18-to-22-year age bands in the three countries.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This age-by-country interaction can be partly explained by poorer education in the older individuals in the present sample compared to those in the US and UK standardization samples. SPM norms presented in this paper fill a hiatus in assessment of general intellectual ability in Sri Lankan adults. Given that Sri Lanka improves its educational, socioeconomic and health standards faster than the nations who have already reached higher standards, these norms would require re-standardization in the coming decades.}, }
@article {pmid38931431, year = {2024}, author = {Kobylarz, D and Paprotny, &#x141; and Wianowska, D and Gnatowski, M and Jurowski, K}, title = {Silent Bird Poisoning in Poland: Reconfirmation of Bromadiolone and Warfarin as the Proximal Causes Using GC-MS/MS-Based Methodology for Forensic Investigations.}, journal = {Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {17}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {38931431}, issn = {1424-8247}, abstract = {The extensive use of rodenticides poses a severe threat to non-target species, particularly birds of prey and scavengers. In this study, a GC-MS/MS-based method was used to unlock the cause of bird deaths in Poland. Organs (liver, heart, kidney, and lungs) collected during autopsies of two rooks (Corvus frugilegus) and one carrion crow (Corvus corone corone), as well as fecal samples, were analyzed for the presence of anticoagulant coumarin derivatives, i.e., warfarin and bromadiolone. As for warfarin, the highest concentration was found in crow samples overall, with concentrations in the feces and lungs at 5.812 ± 0.368 µg/g and 4.840 ± 0.256 µg/g, respectively. The heart showed the lowest concentration of this compound (0.128 ± 0.01 µg/g). In the case of bromadiolone, the highest concentration was recorded in the liver of a rook (16.659 ± 1.499 µg/g) and this concentration significantly exceeded the levels in the other samples. By revealing the reality of the threat, these discoveries emphasize the need to regulate and monitor the trade in rodenticides.}, }
@article {pmid38927338, year = {2024}, author = {Beauchamp, G and Barve, S}, title = {Gazing Strategies among Sentinels of a Cooperative Breeder Are Repeatable but Unrelated to Survival.}, journal = {Biology}, volume = {13}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {38927338}, issn = {2079-7737}, abstract = {Vigilance is a common behavioural adaptation to increase the chances of detecting predators before it is too late to escape. Behavioural traits are often repeatable among individuals over the long term, suggesting differences in personality. Earlier studies have documented individual consistency in the time allocated to vigilance. However, little is known about individual consistency in the ways vigilance is achieved from one moment to another and whether different patterns of vigilance among individuals are associated with survival. We aimed to determine whether sentinels of a cooperative breeder showed individual consistency in their vigilance and if individual variation was related to annual survival. During sentinel bouts from vantage points, Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) turn their heads from side to side to monitor their surroundings. Over three field seasons, we found that the head-turning frequency was repeatable in breeders but not in juveniles or non-breeding helpers. The moderate repeatability in breeders was not related to survival. Our results suggest that the head-turning frequency in sentinels of the Florida scrub-jay is repeatable in breeders but not in less experienced juveniles or helpers and, therefore, likely becomes more repeatable as individuals age. The assumption that individual variation in vigilance is related to survival was unsupported in our study and requires further study.}, }
@article {pmid38923365, year = {2024}, author = {Dardas, LA and Al-Ammouri, I and Sweis, S and Eid, A and Abid, M and Pan, W}, title = {Beyond the heart: Cognitive and verbal outcomes in Arab children with congenital heart diseases.}, journal = {Birth defects research}, volume = {116}, number = {6}, pages = {e2374}, doi = {10.1002/bdr2.2374}, pmid = {38923365}, issn = {2472-1727}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; Child ; *Heart Defects, Congenital/psychology ; *Quality of Life/psychology ; *Arabs/psychology ; *Cognition/physiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Adolescent ; Jordan ; Wechsler Scales ; Intelligence Tests ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study investigates how congenital heart diseases (CHD) characteristics and interventions affect cognitive and verbal skills in Arab children, while also uncovering previously unexplored connections between these skills and the quality of life (QoL) scores as perceived by both children and parents.<br><br>METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Jordan, involving 62 children with CHD aged 6-16. Data were collected through standardized intelligence tests (namely The Raven's Progressive Matrices Test and The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children) and QoL assessments.<br><br>RESULTS: Sex, disease severity, cyanosis, CHD defect status, conducted operations, and types of interventions did not significantly influence cognitive scores. However, a significant difference was observed in Wechsler's scores between cyanotic and non-cyanotic children (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;.01) and between severe and moderate cases (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;.01). Further, a significant positive correlation was identified between Wechsler's Scores and QoL reported by parents (r&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.33, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;.01). This correlation was particularly pronounced in the social and school functioning dimensions of QoL.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the need for personalized care approaches for children with CHDs based on their individual characteristics. While cognitive abilities did not directly correlate with children's QoL reports, a significant positive correlation between verbal skills and QoL reported by parents underscores the importance of effective communication in assessing a child's overall well-being. Future research should further examine the cognitive development in this population, employing neurocognitive investigations and longitudinal studies to gain a deeper understanding of their cognitive profiles and trajectories.}, }
@article {pmid38921693, year = {2024}, author = {Ma, Y and Yin, J and Xuan, H and Ren, X and He, J and Wang, T}, title = {Personality Traits and Family SES Moderate the Relationship between Media Multitasking and Reasoning Performance.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {12}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {38921693}, issn = {2079-3200}, support = {32000761//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 20YJC880095//Humanities and Social Science Fund of Ministry of Education of China/ ; 2020FDD04//China Association of Higher Education/ ; }, abstract = {The prevalence of media multitasking has raised concerns regarding its potential impact on cognitive abilities. Despite increasing attention given to this topic, there remains no consensus on how media multitasking is related to cognitive performance. This study aims to shed light on this issue by examining whether and how personality traits and family socioeconomic status (SES) moderate the relationship between media multitasking and reasoning performance. To this end, a large sample of university students (n = 777) completed a battery of measures, including the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices, the Media Multitasking Inventory, the Big Five Inventory, the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale, the Grit Scale, and the Family SES Questionnaire. Results revealed a negative correlation between media multitasking and reasoning performance. However, this relationship was substantially moderated by conscientiousness, extraversion, openness, and family SES. Specifically, media multitasking was more detrimental to reasoning performance among individuals with lower levels of conscientiousness, extraversion, openness, and family SES, whereas it was less detrimental to counterparts with higher levels of these personality traits and family SES. The proposed moderation model, for the first time, not only offers novel insights into the theoretical accounts regarding how media multitasking relates to cognitive abilities, but also identifies the protective factors that may buffer the negative impacts of media multitasking.}, }
@article {pmid38915110, year = {2024}, author = {Shields, W and Kenney, A and Shiang, E and Malizia, R and Billie, H}, title = {Unintentional injury prevention in American Indian and Alaska Native communities: a scoping review of the Indian Health Service Primary Care Provider newsletter.}, journal = {Injury epidemiology}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {27}, pmid = {38915110}, issn = {2197-1714}, support = {R49 CE003090/CE/NCIPC CDC HHS/United States ; R49CE003090/ACL/ACL HHS/United States ; 5R49CE003090/CE/NCIPC CDC HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Unintentional injuries disproportionately impact American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations. Developing effective and culturally tailored data collection and intervention programs requires an understanding of past prevention efforts in AI/AN communities, but limited peer-reviewed literature on the topic is available. This scoping review aims to summarize efforts that have been published in the Primary Care Provider newsletter, a source of gray literature available through the Indian Health Service.<br><br>METHODS: The research team obtained all injury related articles in the Provider newsletter and excluded those that did not describe an unintentional injury prevention effort. Included articles were organized chronologically and by topic, and outcomes were described in a data abstraction form.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 247 articles from the Provider newsletter were screened, and 68 were included in this review. The most number of articles were published in 2007 (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;15). Many focused not specifically on one tribal community but on the AI/AN community as a whole (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;27), while others reported that certain tribes were the focus of study but did not identify tribes by name (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;24). The following is a list of 14 tribal communities explicitly mentioned: Omaha, Cherokee, Ute, Yakama, Chippewa, Apache, Ho-Chunk, The Crow Tribe, Tohono O'odham Nation, Fort Mojave Tribe, Chemehuevi Tribe, The Rosebud Tribe, Navajo, and The Pueblo of Jemez. Published unintentional injury prevention efforts have covered the following 7 topics in AI/AN communities: falls, motor vehicle crashes, poisonings, improving data, burns, children, and other.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This scoping review makes available and searchable information on injury prevention work conducted in and for AI/AN communities that is not currently found in the peer-reviewed literature.}, }
@article {pmid38913736, year = {2025}, author = {Ichien, N and Stamenković, D and Whatley, MC and Castel, AD and Holyoak, KJ}, title = {Advancing with age: Older adults excel in comprehension of novel metaphors.}, journal = {Psychology and aging}, volume = {40}, number = {1}, pages = {6-16}, doi = {10.1037/pag0000836}, pmid = {38913736}, issn = {1939-1498}, support = {//National Science Foundation/ ; //Canon Corporation/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Aged ; *Comprehension/physiology ; *Metaphor ; Middle Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Female ; Male ; Adult ; Young Adult ; *Intelligence/physiology ; *Aging/psychology/physiology ; Adolescent ; Age Factors ; }, abstract = {Older adults may experience certain forms of cognitive decline, but some forms of semantic memory remain intact in older age. To address how metaphor comprehension changes with age and whether metaphor comprehension relies more heavily on analogical reasoning (supported by fluid intelligence) or on conceptual combination (supported by crystalized intelligence), we compared performance of younger and older adults. In two experiments, healthy older adults (54-88 years) scored lower on a measure of fluid intelligence (Ravens Progressive Matrices) but higher on a measure of crystalized intelligence (Mill Hill Vocabulary Test) relative to younger adults (18-34 years). Groups were equally successful in comprehending relatively easy metaphors (Study 1), but older adults showed a striking advantage over younger adults for novel literary metaphors (Study 2). Mixed-effects modeling showed that measures of fluid and crystalized intelligence each made separable contributions to metaphor comprehension for both groups, but older adults relied more on crystalized intelligence than did younger adults. These age-related dissociations clarify cognitive effects of aging and highlight the importance of crystalized intelligence for metaphor comprehension in both younger and older adults. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid38906144, year = {2024}, author = {Harten, L and Chen, X and de Marcas, L and Rachum, A and Handel, M and Goldshtein, A and Levi, MF and Rosencwaig, S and Yovel, Y}, title = {Time-mapping and future-oriented behavior in free-ranging wild fruit bats.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {34}, number = {13}, pages = {3005-3010.e4}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2024.05.046}, pmid = {38906144}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; *Chiroptera/physiology/psychology ; Feeding Behavior ; Male ; Female ; }, abstract = {Episodic memory and mental time travel have been viewed as uniquely human traits.[1][,][2][,][3] This view began to shift with the development of behavioral criteria to assess what is referred to as "episodic-like memory" in animals.[4][,][5] Key findings have ranged from evidence of what-where-when memory in scrub-jays, rats, and bees; through decision-making that impacts future foraging in frugivorous primates; to evidence of planning based on future needs in scrub-jays and tool use planning in great apes.[4][,][6][,][7][,][8][,][9][,][10][,][11][,][12][,][13] Field studies of these issues have been rare, though there is field-based evidence for future-oriented behaviors in primates.[8][,][10][,][14][,][15] We report evidence that free-ranging wild fruit bats rely on mental temporal maps and exhibit future-oriented behaviors when foraging. We tracked young bats as they navigated and foraged, documenting every tree they visited over many months. We prevented the bats from foraging outside for different time periods and monitored their foraging decisions, revealing that the bats map the spatiotemporal patterns of resources in their environment. Following a long period in captivity, the bats did not visit those trees that were no longer providing fruit. We show that this time-mapping ability requires experience and is lacking in inexperienced bats. Careful analysis of the bats' movement and foraging choices indicated that they plan which tree to visit while still in the colony, thus exhibiting future-oriented behavior and delayed gratification on a nightly basis. Our findings demonstrate how the need for spatiotemporal mental mapping can drive the evolution of high cognitive abilities that were previously considered exclusive to humans.}, }
@article {pmid38897044, year = {2024}, author = {Kampouri, M and Margetaki, K and Koutra, K and Kyriklaki, A and Daraki, V and Roumeliotaki, T and Bempi, V and Vafeiadi, M and Kogevinas, M and Chatzi, L and Kippler, M}, title = {Urinary iodine concentrations in preschoolers and cognitive development at 4 and 6 years of age, the Rhea mother-child cohort on Crete, Greece.}, journal = {Journal of trace elements in medicine and biology : organ of the Society for Minerals and Trace Elements (GMS)}, volume = {85}, number = {}, pages = {127486}, doi = {10.1016/j.jtemb.2024.127486}, pmid = {38897044}, issn = {1878-3252}, mesh = {Humans ; *Iodine/urine ; Greece ; Female ; Male ; *Cognition/physiology ; Child, Preschool ; Child ; Cohort Studies ; Child Development/physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Evidence regarding child iodine intake and neurodevelopment is scarce.<br><br>METHODS: We aimed to assess the impact of child iodine intake at 4 years of age on cognitive and motor development at 4 and 6 years among 304 children from the Rhea cohort on Crete, Greece. Child iodine intake was assessed via urinary iodine concentrations (UIC) measured using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and adjusted for specific gravity. Child cognitive and motor development was assessed using the McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities (MSCA) at 4 years of age and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM), Finger Tapping Test (FTT), and Trail Making Test (TMT) at 6 years. Associations were explored using multivariable-adjusted linear regression analyses with UIC categorized according to WHO criteria [insufficient intake <100&#x202f;&#xb5;g/L, adequate 100-299&#x202f;&#xb5;g/L (reference group), excessive &#x2265;300&#x202f;&#xb5;g/L].<br><br>RESULTS: The children's median UIC was 249&#x202f;&#xb5;g/L (25-75th percentile: 181-344&#x202f;&#x3bc;g/L). Children with UIC <100&#x202f;&#x3bc;g/L had lower scores in the motor scale at 4 years (MSCA-motor scale: B=-10.3; 95&#x202f;%CI -19.9, -0.6; n=10) and in intelligence at 6 years (RCPM-total score: B=-3.6, 95&#x202f;%CI -6.8, -0.5; n=9) than children in the reference group. No associations were found with the general cognitive scale at 4 years or with TMT and FTT scales at 6 years. Children with UIC &#x2265;300&#x202f;&#x3bc;g/L had lower cognitive scores both at 4 (MSCA; B= -3.5; 95&#x202f;%CI -6.9, -0.1; n =101) and 6 years of age (RCPM-total score; B= -1.2; 95&#x202f;%CI -2.3, -0.0; n =98) than children in the reference group. No associations were observed with the motor scale at 4 years or with TMT and FTT scales at 6 years.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate that both low and excessive iodine intake at preschool age may adversely affect child cognitive abilities. Additionally, low iodine intake may also impact motor abilities.}, }
@article {pmid38889775, year = {2024}, author = {Hashizume, A and Koda, R and Nakashima, Y}, title = {Infection risk associated with carnivore carcasses may govern trophic interactions between maggots and insectivorous passerine birds.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {20}, number = {6}, pages = {20240069}, pmid = {38889775}, issn = {1744-957X}, support = {//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Food Chain ; *Predatory Behavior ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; Raccoons/physiology ; Larva/physiology ; Japan ; Feeding Behavior ; }, abstract = {Infection risk by pathogenic agents motivates hosts to avoid using resources with high risks. This, in turn, results in increased availability of these resources for other species that are more tolerant of infections. For instance, carcasses of mammalian carnivores are frequently avoided by conspecific or closely related carnivores, allowing them to be almost exclusively used by maggots. This may lead to novel interactions with other species. This study investigated the consumption of maggots from carnivore carcasses by non-corvid passerines. We successfully monitored 66 raccoon carcasses in Hokkaido, Japan, from 2016 to 2019. Vertebrates only scavenged 14 carcasses before maggot dispersal; the other 52 carcasses produced abundant maggots that regularly fed at least 12 species of non-corvid passerines. Surprisingly, predation occurred at a distance from the carcasses, mainly after maggot dispersal for pupation, despite the higher efficiency of feeding on maggot masses on the carcasses. Birds are likely to reduce the potential risk of infection from the carcass and/or from maggots on the carcasses. Overall, only 1% of maggots were consumed. Our results suggest that necrophagous flies could benefit from the infection risk associated with carnivore carcasses, which may decrease scavenging by other carnivores and constrain maggot consumption by insectivorous birds.}, }
@article {pmid38878496, year = {2024}, author = {Relimpio, D and Serna Moreno, MDC and Horta Muñoz, S and Viaplana, E and Mancera, JC and Urniza, A and de la Fuente, J and Gortázar, C}, title = {Improved stability and specificity of baits for oral administration of substances to wild boar.}, journal = {Preventive veterinary medicine}, volume = {229}, number = {}, pages = {106241}, doi = {10.1016/j.prevetmed.2024.106241}, pmid = {38878496}, issn = {1873-1716}, mesh = {Animals ; *Sus scrofa ; Administration, Oral ; Swine ; Vaccination/veterinary/methods ; Animal Feed/analysis ; Vaccines/administration &amp; dosage ; Honey/analysis ; Zea mays ; Animals, Wild ; Sugars ; }, abstract = {Oral vaccination is one of the most effective interventions for disease control in wildlife. As a result of the recent global reemergence of African swine fever and ongoing classical swine fever and animal tuberculosis, oral vaccination of Eurasian wild boar (Sus scrofa) receives increased interest. Several baits for wild boar and feral pigs have been described, but developing more stable and personalized formulations is important. This paper proposes a new bait formulation primarily composed of corn flour, piglet feed, sugar, and honey as a binder to obtain improved elasticity. The bait consists of a matrix with no protective coats, has a hemispherical shape (ø 3.4 ×1.6 cm), and displays an anise aroma and blue color. The color and aroma did not affect bait choice by wild boar, while bait coloring contributed to avoid consumption by non-target species (corvids). Baits with the new formulation were significantly more resistant to humidity and high temperatures than previous versions. Simulations suggest that baits with the new formulation are elastic enough to resist impacts from a maximum altitude of 750 m. Thus, the new bait prototype solves several problems of previous bait formulations while keeping a format that can be selectively consumed by piglets and adult wild boar.}, }
@article {pmid38874516, year = {2024}, author = {Chen, J and Moubadder, L and Clausing, ES and Kezios, KL and Conneely, KN and Hüls, A and Baccarelli, A and Factor-Litvak, P and Cirrillo, P and Shelton, RC and Link, BG and Suglia, SF}, title = {Associations of childhood, adolescence, and midlife cognitive function with DNA methylation age acceleration in midlife.}, journal = {Aging}, volume = {16}, number = {11}, pages = {9350-9368}, pmid = {38874516}, issn = {1945-4589}, support = {R01 AG058704/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HD058515/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *DNA Methylation ; Female ; Male ; Adolescent ; Middle Aged ; *Cognition/physiology ; Child ; Aging/genetics ; Adult ; Intelligence/genetics ; Cognitive Aging ; }, abstract = {Prior studies showed increased age acceleration (AgeAccel) is associated with worse cognitive function among old adults. We examine the associations of childhood, adolescence and midlife cognition with AgeAccel based on DNA methylation (DNAm) in midlife. Data are from 359 participants who had cognition measured in childhood and adolescence in the Child Health and Development study, and had cognition, blood based DNAm measured during midlife in the Disparities study. Childhood cognition was measured by Raven's Progressive Matrices and Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (PPVT). Adolescent cognition was measured only by PPVT. Midlife cognition included Wechsler Test of Adult Reading (WTAR), Verbal Fluency (VF), Digit Symbol (DS). AgeAccel measures including Horvath, Hannum, PhenoAge, GrimAge and DunedinPACE were calculated from DNAm. Linear regressions adjusted for potential confounders were utilized to examine the association between each cognitive measure in relation to each AgeAccel. There are no significant associations between childhood cognition and midlife AgeAccel. A 1-unit increase in adolescent PPVT, which measures crystalized intelligence, is associated with 0.048-year decrease of aging measured by GrimAge and this association is attenuated after adjustment for adult socioeconomic status. Midlife crystalized intelligence measure WTAR is negatively associated with PhenoAge and DunedinPACE, and midlife fluid intelligence measure (DS) is negatively associated with GrimAge, PhenoAge and DunedinPACE. AgeAccel is not associated with VF in midlife. In conclusion, our study showed the potential role of cognitive functions at younger ages in the process of biological aging. We also showed a potential relationship of both crystalized and fluid intelligence with aging acceleration.}, }
@article {pmid38865769, year = {2024}, author = {Graziosi, G and Lupini, C and Favera, FD and Martini, G and Dosa, G and Trevisani, G and Garavini, G and Mannelli, A and Catelli, E}, title = {Characterizing the domestic-wild bird interface through camera traps in an area at risk for avian influenza introduction in Northern Italy.}, journal = {Poultry science}, volume = {103}, number = {8}, pages = {103892}, pmid = {38865769}, issn = {1525-3171}, mesh = {Animals ; *Influenza in Birds/epidemiology/virology ; Italy/epidemiology ; *Animals, Wild ; Poultry Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; Chickens ; Birds ; }, abstract = {Direct or indirect interactions between sympatric wildlife and poultry can lead to interspecies disease transmission. Particularly, avian influenza (AI) is a viral epidemic disease for which the poultry-wild bird interface shapes the risks of new viral introductions into poultry holdings. Given this background, the study hereby presented aimed to identify wild bird species in poultry house surroundings and characterize the spatiotemporal patterns of these visits. Eight camera traps were deployed for a year (January to December 2021) in 3 commercial chicken layer farms, including free-range and barn-type setups, located in a densely populated poultry area in Northern Italy at high risk for AI introduction via wild birds. Camera traps' positions were chosen based on wildlife signs identified during preliminary visits to the establishments studied. Various methods, including time series analysis, correspondence analysis, and generalized linear models, were employed to analyze the daily wild bird visits. A total of 1,958 camera trap days yielded 5,978 videos of wild birds from 27 different species and 16 taxonomic families. The animals were predominantly engaged in foraging activities nearby poultry houses. Eurasian magpies (Pica pica), ring-necked pheasants (Phasianus colchicus), and Eurasian collared doves (Streptopelia decaocto) were the most frequent visitors. Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos), an AI reservoir species, were observed only in a farm located next to a fishing sport lake. Time series analysis indicated that wild bird visits increased during spring and winter. Farm and camera trap location also influenced visit frequencies. Overall, the results highlighted specific species that could be prioritized for future AI epidemiological surveys. However, further research is required to assess their susceptibility and infectivity to currently circulating AI viruses, essential for identifying novel bridge hosts.}, }
@article {pmid38859176, year = {2024}, author = {Aslan, B and Franchi, R and Biasi, S and Ali, S and Pavesi, L}, title = {On the spectral response of a taiji-CROW device.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {32}, number = {9}, pages = {15177-15198}, doi = {10.1364/OE.514629}, pmid = {38859176}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {Physical systems with topological properties are robust against disorder. However, implementing them in integrated photonic devices is challenging because of the various fabrication imperfections and/or limitations that affect the spectral response of their building blocks. One such feature is strong backscattering due to the surface wall roughness of the waveguides, which can flip the propagating modes to counterpropagating modes and destroy the desired topological behavior. Here, we report a study on modeling, designing and testing an integrated photonic structure based on a sequence of two taiji microresonators coupled with a middle link microresonator (a taiji-CROW device, where CROW stands for coupled resonator optical waveguides). Our study provides design constraints to preserve the ideal operation of the structure by quantifying a minimum ratio between the coupling coefficients and the backscattering coefficients. This ratio is valuable to avoid surface roughness problems in designing topological integrated photonic devices based on arrays of microresonators.}, }
@article {pmid38857943, year = {2024}, author = {Sharma, D and Chauhan, AS and Guinness, L and Mehndiratta, A and Dhiman, A and Singh, M and Prinja, S}, title = {Understanding the extent of economic evidence usage for informing policy decisions in the context of India's national health insurance scheme: Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (PM-JAY).}, journal = {BMJ global health}, volume = {9}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {38857943}, issn = {2059-7908}, mesh = {Humans ; India ; *Health Policy ; *National Health Programs/economics ; Policy Making ; Decision Making ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (PM-JAY) is one of the world's largest tax-funded insurance schemes. The present study was conducted to understand the decision-making process around the evolution (and revision) of health benefit packages (HBPs) and reimbursement rates within PM-JAY, with a specific focus on assessing the extent of use of economic evidence and role of various stakeholders in shaping these policy decisions.<br><br>METHODS: A mixed-methods study was adopted involving in-depth interviews with seven key stakeholders involved in HBP design and reimbursement rates decisions, and a survey of 80 government staff and other relevant stakeholders engaged in the implementation of PM-JAY. The data gathered were thematically analysed, and a coding framework was developed to explore specific themes. Additionally, publicly available documents were reviewed to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the decision-making processes.<br><br>RESULTS: Findings reveal a progressive transition towards evidence-based practices for policy decisions within PM-JAY. The initial version of HBP relied heavily on key criteria like disease burden, utilisation rates, and out-of-pocket expenditures, along with clinical opinion in shaping decisions around the inclusion of services in the HBP and setting reimbursement rates. Revised HBPs were informed based on evidence from a national-level costing study and broader stakeholder consultations. The use of health economic evidence increased with each additional revision with consideration of health technology assessment (HTA) evidence for some packages and reimbursement rates based on empirical cost evidence in the most recent update. The establishment of the Health Financing and Technology Assessment unit further signifies the use of evidence-based policymaking within PM-JAY. However, challenges persist, notably with regard to staff capacity and understanding of HTA principles, necessitating ongoing education and training initiatives.<br><br>CONCLUSION: While substantial progress has been made in transitioning towards evidence-based practices within PM-JAY, sustained efforts and political commitment are required for the ongoing systematisation of processes.}, }
@article {pmid38854476, year = {2024}, author = {Lee, JS and Yoon, YC and Kim, JM and Kim, YH and Kang, YH and Shin, YC}, title = {Liquid collagen from freshwater fish skin ameliorates hydration, roughness and elasticity in photo-aged skin: a randomized, controlled, clinical study.}, journal = {Nutrition research and practice}, volume = {18}, number = {3}, pages = {357-371}, pmid = {38854476}, issn = {1976-1457}, abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Collagen is commonly used in diverse forms as a functional component in skincare products. On the other hand, the effects of collagen on human skin are controversial. Dietary collagen hydrolysates from freshwater Pangasius hypophthalmus fish skin ameliorated photo-aged skin of hairless mice. This study conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to determine if liquid fish collagen (Collagen-Tripep20™, Tripep20) as a drink strengthens skin health and quality.<br><br>SUBJECTS/METHODS: In this clinical trial, 85 subjects aged 35-60 yrs were diagnosed with photo-aged skin. Eighty-five subjects were randomized to receive either Tripep20 (n = 44) or placebo (n = 41). Seventy-eight subjects fully participating for a 12-week period consumed 1,000 mg of Tripep20 (n = 41) or placebo (n = 37) in a 50-mL bottle as a daily drink. The intend-to-treat and per-protocol populations were 85 and 78, respectively. Skin hydration, wrinkles, and elasticity were assessed at 0 (baseline), 6, and 12 weeks during the study period.<br><br>RESULTS: Skin hydration in the Tripep20 group was significantly higher from 6 weeks (P < 0.001) than the baseline. After 12 weeks, the Crow's-feet visual score and skin roughness (Ra, Rq, and Rmax) were significantly improved in the Tripep20 group than in the placebo group (P < 0.05). Consuming liquid collagen Tripep20 greatly enhanced skin elasticity (Gross R2, Net R5, and Biological elasticity R7) in 6 weeks compared to the placebo group. The Tripep20 group showed a significant increase in skin elasticity from the baseline after 6 and 12 weeks (P < 0.001). Neither abnormal symptoms nor adverse events were encountered during the study period in subjects ingesting Tripep20 or placebo. The changes in parameters related to hematology and clinical chemistry were within the normal ranges.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Oral consumption of liquid collagen Tripep20 was safe and well-tolerated. The results of this study show that freshwater fish-derived liquid collagen Tripep20 can be used as a healthy functional food ingredient to improve skin moisturizing, anti-wrinkling, and elasticity in an aging population.}, }
@article {pmid38845349, year = {2024}, author = {Cho, E and Pinzur, MS and Schiff, AP and Hamid, K}, title = {Outcomes Following Surgical Correction of Talocalcalcaneal Joint Dislocation in Diabetes Associated Charcot Foot Arthropathy.}, journal = {Foot &amp; ankle international}, volume = {45}, number = {9}, pages = {972-978}, doi = {10.1177/10711007241255373}, pmid = {38845349}, issn = {1944-7876}, mesh = {Humans ; *Arthropathy, Neurogenic/surgery/complications ; Retrospective Studies ; *Joint Dislocations/surgery/complications ; Middle Aged ; Female ; *Diabetic Foot/surgery/complications ; Male ; Subtalar Joint/surgery ; Aged ; Adult ; Treatment Outcome ; Arthrodesis/methods ; External Fixators ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Growing clinical interest in the treatment of acquired foot deformity due to diabetes-associated Charcot foot arthropathy has led to multiple reports of favorable clinical outcomes in patients when their acquired deformity is at the midfoot level. Clinical failures and less than optimal clinical outcomes are achieved when the deformity is at the hindfoot or ankle levels.<br><br>METHODS: A retrospective review was performed of all patients who underwent surgical correction of diabetes-associated Charcot foot arthropathy with talocalcaneal dislocation over an 18-year period. Reduction of the talocalcaneal dislocation, and maintenance of the correction with percutaneous pins and circular external fixation after subtalar joint preparation for fusion, was used as the method of surgically achieving a clinically plantigrade foot. Clinical outcomes were based on resolution of infection, limb salvage, and the ability to ambulate with commercially available therapeutic footwear.<br><br>RESULTS: Forty-three feet in 39 patients were included. A favorable clinical outcome was achieved in 32 of 43 feet (74%) with 26 (60%) considered to have an "excellent" result with minimal shoeing issues and 6 (14%) considered to have a "good" outcome based on their need for a custom shoe modification and/or some form of short ankle-foot orthosis. Eleven feet (26%) were judged to have a "poor" clinical outcome and among those 11 feet, 6 underwent partial, or whole-foot amputation, 2 had persistent wounds, and 5 required the use of a standard ankle foot orthosis or Charcot Restraint Orthotic Walker (CROW).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Subtalar dislocation in Charcot arthropathy is a complex clinical problem. In our series, reduction and maintenance of the reduction after subtalar dislocation was essential for a favorable clinical outcome.}, }
@article {pmid38841999, year = {2024}, author = {Babu, KR and Prasad, JL and Bhaskar, NL and Kumar, PN}, title = {Study on Universal Health Coverage Scheme in India - The Stumper to Private Hospitals.}, journal = {Hospital topics}, volume = {102}, number = {3}, pages = {193-199}, doi = {10.1080/00185868.2024.2359553}, pmid = {38841999}, issn = {1939-9278}, mesh = {Humans ; *Hospitals, Private/economics/statistics &amp; numerical data ; India ; *Universal Health Insurance/statistics &amp; numerical data/economics/trends ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Many governments have introduced health insurance schemes for the poor sections of society to save them from catastrophic health expenditure. Private hospitals play a key role in India, as they are in significant number in secondary and tertiary care services. Private hospitals have to fund their infrastructure, staff salaries from the revenue of previous year. In this study, we compared money received by a private medical college hospital bed through government insurance scheme patient and private paying patient.<br><br>METHODS: Observational study, comparing money reimbursed for top ten procedures treated in private medical college hospitals by Ayushman Bharat (AB) fund and the price offered by a paying patient in similar bed.<br><br>RESULTS: On average 600 patients received medical care through the AB scheme per month at our tertiary care super-specialty hospital. Highest numbers were seen in specialties like cardiovascular, and cancer treatments and infectious diseases under general medicine specialty. The costs considered were surgeon's cost, medicines, devices, and hospitalization costs. The laparoscopic procedures were incurring a loss of 130%, knee replacements about 50%, coronary bypass grafting thankfully due to controlling of prices by central government is incurring a loss of 10%. The package amount offered accounts to 26-52% only of the costs incurred by the private hospitals.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The private academic hospitals need 25% to 50% more than current prices offered, across various procedures.}, }
@article {pmid38841134, year = {2024}, author = {Anastasiu, P and Miu, IV and Gavrilidis, AA and Preda, C and Rozylowicz, L and Sirbu, C and Oprea, A and Urziceanu, M and Camen-Comanescu, P and Nagoda, E and Memedemin, D and Barbos, M and Boruz, V and Cislariu, A and Don, I and Fagaras, M and Frink, JP and Georgescu, IM and Haruta, OI and Hurdu, BI and Matis, A and Milanovici, S and Muncaciu, S and Neacsu, AG and Neblea, M and Nicolin, AL and Niculescu, M and Oroian, S and Pop, OG and Radutoiu, DI and Samarghitan, M and Simion, I and Soare, LC and Steiu, C and Stoianov, E and Strat, D and Szabo, A and Szatmari, PM and Tanase, C and Mirea, MD and Manta, N and Sirbu, IM}, title = {Alien plant species distribution in Romania: a nationwide survey following the implementation of the EU Regulation on Invasive Alien Species.}, journal = {Biodiversity data journal}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {e119539}, pmid = {38841134}, issn = {1314-2828}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Biological invasions pose an increasing risk to nature, social security and the economy, being ranked amongst the top five threats to biodiversity. Managing alien and invasive species is a priority for the European Union, as outlined in the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Alien plant species are acknowledged to impact the economy and biodiversity; thus, analysing the distribution of such species provides valuable inputs for the management and decision-making processes. The database presented in the current study is the first consolidated checklist of alien plant species that are present in Romania, both of European Union concern and of national interest. This database complements a prior published distribution, based only on records from literature, bringing new information regarding the occurrence of alien plants in Romania, as revealed by a nationwide field survey. We consider this database a valuable instrument for managing biological invasions at both national and regional levels, as it can be utilised in further research studies and in drafting management and action plans, assisting stakeholders in making informed decisions and implementing management actions.<br><br>NEW INFORMATION: We present the results of the first nationwide survey of alien plant species in Romania, conducted between 2019 and 2022, in the framework of a national project coordinated by the Ministry of Environment, Waters and Forests and the University of Bucharest. The present database complements and updates the database published by Sirbu et. al (2022), which included occurrence records published until 2019. The new database includes 98323 occurrence records for 396 alien plant species in 77 families, with most species belonging to the Asteraceae family. One alien plant species in our database, the black locust Robiniapseudoacacia L., had more than 10,000 occurrence records. The distribution database also includes information on newly-reported invasive alien plant species of European Union concern in Romania (i.e. the floating primrose-willow Ludwigiapeploides (Kunth) P.H.Raven) and documents the presence of plants in 44 additional families compared to Sirbu et al. (2022). Each entry includes information on species taxonomy, location, year, person who recorded and identified the alien plant, geographical coordinates and taxon rank.}, }
@article {pmid38837343, year = {2024}, author = {Yang, X and Yang, R and Zhang, T and Tan, DJ and Pan, R and Chen, Z and Wu, D and Chen, C and Xu, Y and Zhang, L and Li, X and Shu, Q and Hu, L}, title = {Genotypic and phenotypic spectrum of maple syrup urine disease in Zhejiang of China.}, journal = {QJM : monthly journal of the Association of Physicians}, volume = {117}, number = {10}, pages = {717-727}, pmid = {38837343}, issn = {1460-2393}, support = {2024C03151//Key R&amp;D Program of Zhejiang/ ; 82000030//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2022YFC2703401//National Program on Key Basic Research Project/ ; //Special Fund for the Incubation of Young Clinical Scientist/ ; CHZJU2022YS005//The Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine/ ; }, mesh = {*Maple Syrup Urine Disease/genetics/diagnosis ; Humans ; China ; Female ; Male ; Retrospective Studies ; Infant, Newborn ; *Phenotype ; *Genotype ; *Mutation ; 3-Methyl-2-Oxobutanoate Dehydrogenase (Lipoamide)/genetics ; Neonatal Screening/methods ; Infant ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is an autosomal recessive metabolic disorder originating from defects in the branched-chain α-ketoacid dehydrogenase (BCKDH) complex encoded by BCKDHA, BCKDHB and DBT. This condition presents a spectrum of symptoms and potentially fatal outcomes. Although numerous mutations in the BCKDH complex genes associated with MSUD have been identified, the relationship between specific genotypes remains to be fully elucidated.<br><br>AIM: Our objective was to predict the pathogenicity of these genetic mutations and establish potential links between genotypic alterations and the clinical phenotypes of MSUD.<br><br>DESIGN: Retrospective population-based cohort.<br><br>METHODS: We analyzed 20 MSUD patients from the Children's Hospital at Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Hangzhou, China), recorded from January 2010 to December 2023. Patients' blood samples were collected by heel-stick through neonatal screening, and amino acid profiles were measured by tandem mass spectrometry. In silico methods were employed to assess the pathogenicity, stability and biophysical properties. Various computation tools were utilized for assessment, namely PredictSNP, MAGPIE, iStable, Align GVGD, ConSurf and SNP effect.<br><br>RESULTS: We detected 25 distinct mutations, including 12 novel mutations. The BCKDHB gene was the most commonly affected (53.3%) compared to the BCKDHA gene (20.0%) and DBT gene (26.7%). In silico webservers predicted all novel mutations were disease-causing.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the genetic complexity of MSUD and underscores the importance of early detection and intervention. Integrating neonatal screening with advanced sequencing methodologies is pivotal in ensuring precise diagnosis and effective management of MSUD, thereby significantly improving the prognosis for individuals afflicted with this condition.}, }
@article {pmid38835280, year = {2024}, author = {Speechley, EM and Ashton, BJ and Thornton, A and King, SL and Simmons, LW and Woodiss-Field, SL and Ridley, AR}, title = {Aggressive interactions influence cognitive performance in Western Australian magpies.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {291}, number = {2024}, pages = {20240435}, pmid = {38835280}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; *Social Behavior ; Western Australia ; *Aggression ; Male ; Passeriformes/physiology ; Female ; }, abstract = {Extensive research has investigated the relationship between the social environment and cognition, suggesting that social complexity may drive cognitive evolution and development. However, evidence for this relationship remains equivocal. Group size is often used as a measure of social complexity, but this may not capture intraspecific variation in social interactions. Social network analysis can provide insight into the cognitively demanding challenges associated with group living at the individual level. Here, we use social networks to investigate whether the cognitive performance of wild Western Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen dorsalis) is related to group size and individual social connectedness. We quantified social connectedness using four interaction types: proximity, affiliative, agonistic and vocal. Consistent with previous research on this species, individuals in larger groups performed better on an associative learning task. However, social network position was also related to cognitive performance. Individuals receiving aggressive interactions performed better, while those involved in aggressive interactions with more group members performed worse. Overall, this suggests that cognitive performance is related to specific types of social interaction. The findings from this study highlight the value of considering fine-grained metrics of sociality that capture the challenges associated with social life when testing the relationship between the social environment and cognition.}, }
@article {pmid38830782, year = {2025}, author = {Higginbotham, GD}, title = {The Dark Side of Safety: A Call for a More Thorough Consideration of Racism and Collective Power Motivations in the Social Psychology of Firearms.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {128}, number = {1}, pages = {267-304}, doi = {10.1177/00332941241252773}, pmid = {38830782}, issn = {1558-691X}, mesh = {Humans ; *Firearms/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; *Racism ; *Motivation ; *Safety ; *Power, Psychological ; Psychology, Social ; United States ; Black or African American/psychology/ethnology ; White People/psychology ; Ownership ; White ; }, abstract = {This paper situates current social psychological research on the symbolic use of firearms (e.g., as a source of personal safety) in broader historical context to motivate a more thorough consideration of collective power motives. Historically, firearms have been used to dominate racial outgroup members (e.g., White Americans use of firearms and firearm laws to dispossess indigenous people of land or control free and enslaved Black people) or, at times, attempt to resist group-based oppression (e.g., Black Americans use of firearms to struggle against White Jim Crow terrorism). Given most gun owners report self-protection as their primary reason for firearm ownership and yet anti-Black attitudes are still a consistently important predictor of firearm ownership among dominant group members (e.g., White Americans), this paper examines how guns may function as a perceived source of personal safety and collective power. I center the persistent role of White supremacy and anti-Blackness in original U.S. firearm psychology and policy to illuminate the interrelatedness of personal safety and collective power perceptions, and how perceived threats to in-group power may motivate the use of guns and policies that selectively regulate gun access to mitigate associated safety concerns. Seeking to nudge social psychology to more thoroughly examine firearms' potential function as a symbolic source of collective power, I end by discussing how considering collective power can help us better understand how historically dominant and historically marginalized groups view firearms today while also illuminating some barriers to the pursuit of gun safety for all.}, }
@article {pmid38829346, year = {2024}, author = {Auersperg, A}, title = {Within the sound of trouble: Do humans use pitch to correctly assess emotional arousal across species?.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {138}, number = {2}, pages = {77-79}, doi = {10.1037/com0000389}, pmid = {38829346}, issn = {1939-2087}, mesh = {Humans ; *Arousal/physiology ; *Emotions/physiology ; Animals ; Pitch Perception/physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Comments on an article by Jay W. Schwartz , Kayleigh H. Pierson, and Alexander K. Reece (see record 2024-19488-001). In this issue, Schwartz et al. (2024) tackle the pitch rule in humans by testing to what extent we use pitch alone to judge emotional arousal across closely and distantly related animal species. The findings of Schwartz et al. open a number of intriguing possibilities for future research: Notably important additional steps would include to further investigate the accuracy of the pitch rule across closely and distantly related species. Upon this, in order to study the evolutionary ancestry of the pitch rule, it will be necessary to study its applicability across nonhumans. Particularly interesting would be the inclusion of subject species that have been found to eavesdrop on heterospecific alarm calls. Previous research (see Hoeschele, 2017 for a review) as well as present findings on human ratings of macaque versus cricket calls also suggest that we should additionally focus on sound features that compliment emotional arousal rating beyond pitch such as spectral information. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid38826666, year = {2024}, author = {Tozzi, A and Peters, JF}, title = {Towards a single parameter for the assessment of EEG oscillations.}, journal = {Cognitive neurodynamics}, volume = {18}, number = {3}, pages = {1209-1214}, pmid = {38826666}, issn = {1871-4080}, abstract = {The single macroscopic flow on the boundary of a closed curve equals the sum of the countless microscopic flows in the enclosed area. According to the dictates of the Green's theorem, the counterclockwise movements on the border of a two-dimensional shape must equal all the counterclockwise movements taking place inside the shape. This mathematical approach might be useful to analyse neuroscientific data sets for its potential capability to describe the whole cortical activity in terms of electric flows occurring in peripheral brain areas. Given a map of raw EEG data to coloured ovals in which different colours stand for different amplitudes, the theorem suggests that the sum of the electric amplitudes measured inside every oval equals the amplitudes measured just on the oval's edge. This means that the collection of the vector fields detected from the scalp can be described by a novel, single parameter summarizing the counterclockwise electric flow detected in the outer electrodes. To evaluate the predictive power of this parameter, in a pilot study we investigated EEG traces from ten young females performing Raven's intelligence tests of various complexity, from easy tasks (n = 5) to increasingly complex tasks (n = 5). Despite the seemingly unpredictable behavior of EEG electric amplitudes, the novel parameter proved to be a valuable tool to to discriminate between the two groups and detect hidden, statistically significant differences. We conclude that the application of this promising parameter could be expanded to assess also data sets extracted from neurotechniques other than EEG.}, }
@article {pmid38820727, year = {2024}, author = {Łopucki, R and Stępień-Pyśniak, D and Christensen, H and Kubiński, K and Lenarczyk, E and Martinez-de-Tejada, G and Kitowski, I and Masłyk, M}, title = {Interspecies transmission of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria between wild birds and mammals in urban environment.}, journal = {Veterinary microbiology}, volume = {294}, number = {}, pages = {110130}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2024.110130}, pmid = {38820727}, issn = {1873-2542}, mesh = {Animals ; Poland/epidemiology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Escherichia coli/drug effects/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; *Animals, Wild/microbiology ; *Cities ; Feces/microbiology ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Birds/microbiology ; Mammals/microbiology ; Escherichia coli Infections/veterinary/transmission/microbiology/epidemiology ; Crows/microbiology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Rodentia/microbiology ; }, abstract = {The transmission of antibiotic-resistant bacteria among wild animal species may hold significant epidemiological implications. However, this issue is seldom explored due to the perceived complexity of these systems, which discourages experimental investigation. To address this knowledge gap, we chose a configuration of birds and mammals coexisting in an urban green area as a research model: the rook Corvus frugilegus and the striped field mouse Apodemus agrarius. The indirect transmission of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria between these species is possible because rodents inhabiting rook colonies frequently come into contact with the birds' faeces and pellets. The study was conducted in two cities in eastern Poland (Central Europe) - Lublin and Chełm. Among 71 Escherichia (E.) coli isolates studied, 19.7% showed resistance to from one to six of the antibiotics tested, with much higher prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the birds (32%) than in the rodents (7%). Whole genome sequencing was performed on 10 selected E. coli isolates representing similar resistance phenotypes. The following antimicrobial resistance genes were detected: blaTEM-1b, tet(A), tet(B), aph(6)-Id, aph(3'')-Ib, aadA1, aadA2, catA1, floR, cmlA, sul2, sul3, dfrA14, and dfrA2. Birds from the same city and also from both neighbouring cities shared E. coli bacteria with the same sequence types, whereas isolates detected in birds were not found to have been transferred to the mammalian population, despite close contact. This demonstrates that even intensive exposure to sources of these pathogens does not necessarily lead to effective transmission of antibiotic-resistant E. coli strains between birds and mammals. Further efforts should be dedicated to investigating actual transmission of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in various ecological systems, including those that are crucial for public health, such as urban environments. This will facilitate the development of more accurate models for epidemiological threats and the formulation of well-balanced decisions regarding the coexistence of humans and urban wildlife.}, }
@article {pmid38818494, year = {2024}, author = {Tamba, M and Bonilauri, P and Galletti, G and Casadei, G and Santi, A and Rossi, A and Calzolari, M}, title = {West Nile virus surveillance using sentinel birds: results of eleven years of testing in corvids in a region of northern Italy.}, journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {1407271}, pmid = {38818494}, issn = {2297-1769}, abstract = {The natural transmission cycle of West Nile virus (WNV) involves birds as primary hosts and mosquitoes as vectors, but this virus can spread to mammals, human beings included. Asymptomatic infected donors pose a risk to the safety of blood transfusions and organ transplants, as WNV can be transmitted through these medical procedures. Since 2009, the region of Emilia-Romagna in northern Italy has been implementing an integrated surveillance system in order to detect WNV circulation in the environment at an early stage. Here we report the results of the two components of the surveillance system, the active testing of corvids and humans, and demonstrate that bird surveillance alone improves a surveillance system based solely on human case detection. As WNV risk reduction measures are applied on a provincial basis, we assessed the ability of this surveillance system component to detect virus circulation prior to the notification of the first human case for each province. Overall, 99 epidemic seasons were evaluated as a result of 11 years (2013-2023) of surveillance in the nine provinces of the region. In this period, 22,314 corvids were tested for WNV and 642 (2.9%) were found to be infected. WNV was generally first detected in birds in July, with sample prevalence peaks occurring between August and September. During the same period, 469 autochthonous human cases were notified, about 60% of which were reported in August. WNV was detected 79 times out of the 99 seasons considered. The virus was notified in birds 73 times (92.4%) and 60 times (75.9%) in humans. WNV was first or only notified in birds in 57 seasons (72.1%), while it was first or only notified in humans in 22 seasons (27.8%). Active surveillance in corvids generally allows the detection of WNV before the onset of human cases. Failure of virus detection occurred mainly in seasons where the number of birds tested was low. Our results show that active testing of a minimum of 3.8 corvids per 100 km[2] provides a satisfactory timeliness in the virus detection, but for early detection of WNV it is crucial to test birds between mid-June and mid-August.}, }
@article {pmid38813372, year = {2024}, author = {Banta Lavenex, P and Blandin, ML and Gaborieau, C and Lavenex, P}, title = {Well-designed manufacturing work improves some cognitive abilities in individuals with cognitive impairments.}, journal = {Frontiers in rehabilitation sciences}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {1377133}, pmid = {38813372}, issn = {2673-6861}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Employment is recognized as a fundamental human right, which correlates with better physical and mental health. Importantly, well-designed work, which considers the physical, social, and psychological impacts of work, can serve to enhance the cognitive abilities of workers. Although often overlooked, work for individuals with disabilities, including cognitive impairments, is equally important for their physical and mental well-being. What has not been established, however, is whether well-designed work can also enhance the cognitive abilities of individuals with cognitive impairments.<br><br>METHODS: Using a longitudinal study design, we investigated the impact of well-designed work on the cognitive abilities of 60 participants (operators) at the AMIPI Foundation factories, which employ individuals with cognitive impairments to produce electrical cables and harnesses for the automobile industry. The same operators were assessed at three different time points: upon hiring (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;60), and after working in the factory for 1 year (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;41, since 19 left the factory) and 2 years (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;28, since 13 more left the factory). We used five cognitive tests evaluating: (1) finger and manual dexterity, bimanual dexterity, and procedural memory using the Purdue Pegboard; (2) sustained and selective attention using the Symbol Cancellation Task; (3) short- and long-term declarative verbal memory and long-term verbal recognition memory using Rey's Audio-Verbal Learning Test; (4) short- and long-term visual recognition memory using the Continuous Visual Memory Test; and (5) abstract reasoning using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: We observed improvements in procedural memory, sustained and selective attention, and short- and long-term visual recognition memory after working in the factory for 1 or 2 years. We did not observe improvements in finger or manual dexterity or bimanual dexterity, nor short- or long-term declarative verbal memory or verbal recognition memory, nor abstract reasoning.<br><br>DISCUSSION: We conclude that, in addition to improving physical and mental well-being, well-designed manufacturing work can serve as a training intervention improving some types of cognitive functioning in individuals with cognitive impairments.}, }
@article {pmid38808028, year = {2024}, author = {Parishar, P and Rajagopalan, M and Iyengar, S}, title = {Changes in the dopaminergic circuitry and adult neurogenesis linked to reinforcement learning in corvids.}, journal = {Frontiers in neuroscience}, volume = {18}, number = {}, pages = {1359874}, pmid = {38808028}, issn = {1662-4548}, abstract = {The caudolateral nidopallium (NCL, an analog of the prefrontal cortex) is known to be involved in learning, memory, and discrimination in corvids (a songbird), whereas the involvement of other brain regions in these phenomena is not well explored. We used house crows (Corvus splendens) to explore the neural correlates of learning and decision-making by initially training them on a shape discrimination task followed by immunohistochemistry to study the immediate early gene expression (Arc), a dopaminoceptive neuronal marker (DARPP-32, Dopamine- and cAMP-regulated phosphoprotein, Mr 32 kDa) to understand the involvement of the reward pathway and an immature neuronal marker (DCX, doublecortin) to detect learning-induced changes in adult neurogenesis. We performed neuronal counts and neuronal tracing, followed by morphometric analyses. Our present results have demonstrated that besides NCL, other parts of the caudal nidopallium (NC), avian basal ganglia, and intriguingly, vocal control regions in house crows are involved in visual discrimination. We have also found that training on the visual discrimination task can be correlated with neurite pruning in mature dopaminoceptive neurons and immature DCX-positive neurons in the NC of house crows. Furthermore, there is an increase in the incorporation of new neurons throughout NC and the medial striatum which can also be linked to learning. For the first time, our results demonstrate that a combination of structural changes in mature and immature neurons and adult neurogenesis are linked to learning in corvids.}, }
@article {pmid38806771, year = {2024}, author = {Krämer, K}, title = {Daily briefing: Carrion crows have counting skills seen only in people.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1038/d41586-024-01579-3}, pmid = {38806771}, issn = {1476-4687}, }
@article {pmid38788911, year = {2024}, author = {Novčić, I and Mikula, P}, title = {Nearest neighbour distance does not affect escape behaviour in urban hooded crows.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {219}, number = {}, pages = {105057}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2024.105057}, pmid = {38788911}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {*Crows/physiology ; Animals ; *Escape Reaction/physiology ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Male ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Female ; }, abstract = {The nearest-neighbour distance is an important property of a group, as individuals can obtain environmental information more quickly and easily from nearby individuals. We examined whether distance to the nearest neighbour affected two components of escape behaviour - alert distance (AD) and flight initiation distance (FID) - in an urban population of hooded crows Corvus cornix, while controlling for confounding variables. We did not find evidence that AD and FID were influenced by the nearest neighbour distance. However, both AD and FID were negatively affected by feeding activity of individuals - focal crows alerted later and escaped at shorter distance if they were feeding during our approach. In addition, AD and FID were positively related to starting distance and grass coverage. The lack of evidence for the nearest neighbour effect on escape behaviour of crows may be due to: (1) disturbance by close neighbours that may impede antipredator behaviour of focal birds, (2) variable distribution of familiar, dominant or experienced individuals within a flock, and (3) dynamic change in position of the nearest neighbour during the potential predator approach.}, }
@article {pmid38786375, year = {2024}, author = {Bazalo, B and Morales-Sánchez, V and Pérez-Romero, N and Contreras-Osorio, F and Campos-Jara, C and Hernández-Mendo, A and Reigal, RE}, title = {Associations between Fluid Intelligence and Physical Fitness in School Children.}, journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {12}, number = {10}, pages = {}, pmid = {38786375}, issn = {2227-9032}, abstract = {Previous research has highlighted that active lifestyles that contribute to improved physical fitness are positively related to cognitive functioning in children and adolescents. Specifically, the increase in physical condition at school age is considered relevant because it is related to better cognitive ability and greater academic performance. Thus, the aim of this study was to analyze the relationships between explosive strength, speed-agility, and fluid reasoning in schoolchildren. To achieve this objective, an associative, comparative, and predictive design was used in this research. A total of 129 children participated in this study (age: M = 9.48; SD = 0.99). To assess fluid reasoning, the Raven test's Standard Progressive Matrices Subtest and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-V) were used. To assess physical fitness, the speed-agility test and the horizontal jump test (ALPHA-fitness battery tests), as well as the ball throw test (2 kg), were used. The results showed that the speed-agility test significantly predicted WISC-V Fluid Reasoning Index scores, and the medicine ball toss test significantly predicted Raven test scores. The results obtained highlight the associations between physical condition at these ages and fluid intelligence. This suggests that promoting active lifestyles that improve physical fitness could have a positive impact on children's cognitive health.}, }
@article {pmid38783132, year = {2024}, author = {Lenharo, M}, title = {These crows have counting skills previously only seen in people.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {38783132}, issn = {1476-4687}, }
@article {pmid38781709, year = {2024}, author = {Fujii, Y and Masatani, T and Nishiyama, S and Takahashi, T and Okajima, M and Izumi, F and Sakoda, Y and Takada, A and Ozawa, M and Sugiyama, M and Ito, N}, title = {Molecular characterization of an avian rotavirus a strain detected from a large-billed crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) in Japan.}, journal = {Virology}, volume = {596}, number = {}, pages = {110114}, doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2024.110114}, pmid = {38781709}, issn = {1096-0341}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows/virology ; Japan ; *Rotavirus/genetics/classification/isolation &amp; purification ; *Rotavirus Infections/virology/veterinary/transmission ; *Phylogeny ; *Bird Diseases/virology/transmission ; *Feces/virology ; *Genotype ; }, abstract = {Avian rotaviruses A (RVAs) are occasionally transmitted to animals other than the original hosts across species barriers. Information on RVAs carried by various bird species is important for identifying the origin of such interspecies transmission. In this study, to facilitate an understanding of the ecology of RVAs from wild birds, we characterized all of the genes of an RVA strain, JC-105, that was detected in a fecal sample of a large-billed crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) in Japan. All of the genes of this strain except for the VP4 and VP7 genes, which were classified as novel genotypes (P[56] and G40, respectively), were closely related to those of the avian-like RVA strain detected from a raccoon, indicating the possibility that crows had been involved in the transmission of avian RVAs to raccoons. Our findings highlight the need for further viral investigations in wild birds and mammals to understand the mechanisms of avian-to-mammal RVA transmission.}, }
@article {pmid38781375, year = {2024}, author = {Liao, DA and Brecht, KF and Veit, L and Nieder, A}, title = {Crows "count" the number of self-generated vocalizations.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {384}, number = {6698}, pages = {874-877}, doi = {10.1126/science.adl0984}, pmid = {38781375}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Animals ; Acoustics ; *Crows/physiology ; Cues ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Producing a specific number of vocalizations with purpose requires a sophisticated combination of numerical abilities and vocal control. Whether this capacity exists in animals other than humans is yet unknown. We show that crows can flexibly produce variable numbers of one to four vocalizations in response to arbitrary cues associated with numerical values. The acoustic features of the first vocalization of a sequence were predictive of the total number of vocalizations, indicating a planning process. Moreover, the acoustic features of vocal units predicted their order in the sequence and could be used to read out counting errors during vocal production.}, }
@article {pmid38777168, year = {2024}, author = {Wascher, CAF and Hillemann, F}, title = {Observation of female-male mounting in the carrion crow.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {219}, number = {}, pages = {105055}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2024.105055}, pmid = {38777168}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows/physiology ; Female ; Male ; *Sexual Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Social Behavior ; Copulation/physiology ; }, abstract = {In the biological sciences, sexual behaviours in non-human animals are traditionally investigated in the context of reproduction and direct fitness benefits. While the evolutionary functions of non-conceptive sexual behaviours ('socio-sexual behaviours') remain less well explored, these interactions and displays have been suggested to be important for shaping and maintaining social relationships. Here, we report an observation of a captive female carrion crow, Corvus corone corone, mounting her co-housed male partner. We highlight the importance of more systematic research, reporting, and discussions of rarely observed behaviours in social evolution research, including considerations for behaviours that transcend binary or heteronormative frameworks, for a more comprehensive understanding of non-conceptive socio-sexual behaviours.}, }
@article {pmid38774764, year = {2024}, author = {Assari, S and Zare, H and Sonnega, A}, title = {Racial Disparities in Occupational Distribution Among Black and White Adults with Similar Educational Levels: Analysis of Middle-Aged and Older Individuals in the Health and Retirement Study.}, journal = {Journal of rehabilitation therapy}, volume = {6}, number = {1}, pages = {1-11}, pmid = {38774764}, issn = {2767-5122}, support = {U01 AG009740/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; U54 MD000214/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Occupational classes play a significant role in influencing both individual and population health, serving as a vital conduit through which higher education can lead to better health outcomes. However, the pathway from education to corresponding occupational classes does not apply uniformly across different racial and ethnic groups, hindered by factors such as social stratification, labor market discrimination, and job segregation.<br><br>AIMS: This study seeks to investigate the relationship between educational attainment and occupational classes among Black, Latino, and White middle-aged and older adults, with a focus on their transition into retirement.<br><br>METHODS: Using cross-sectional data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), this research examines the impact of race/ethnicity, educational attainment, occupational classes, and timing of retirement among middle-aged and older adults. The analysis includes a sample of 7,096 individuals identified as White, Black, or Latino. Through logistic regression, we assess the additive and multiplicative effects of race/ethnicity and education on six defined occupational classes: 1. Managerial and specialty operations, 2. Professional Specialty, 3. Sales, 4. Clerical/administrative support, 5. Services, and 6. Manual labor.<br><br>RESULTS: Participants were Black (n = 1,143) or White (n =5,953). This included Latino (N =459) or non-Latino (n = 6,634). Our analysis reveals a skewed distribution of Black and Latino adults in manual and service occupations, in stark contrast to White adults who were more commonly found in clerical/administrative and managerial positions. Educational attainment did not equate to similar occupational outcomes across racial groups. Key findings include: Firstly, Black individuals with a college degree or higher were less likely to occupy clerical and administrative positions compared to their White counterparts. Secondly, holding a General Educational Development (GED) credential or some college education was generally linked to reduced likelihood of being in managerial roles; however, this inverse relationship was less evident among Black middle-aged and older adults than White ones. Thirdly, having a GED reduced the chances of working in sales roles, while having a college degree increased such chances. An interaction between race and some college education revealed that the impact of some college education on sales roles was more significant for Black adults than for White ones. We did not observe any interaction between ethnicity (Latino) and educational attainment on occupational classes. Given the stability of occupational classes, these findings could also apply to the last occupation held prior to retirement.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study highlights significant racial disparities in occupational classes among individuals with comparable levels of education, underscoring the profound implications for health and wellbeing disparities. Future research should explore strategies to alleviate labor market discrimination and job segregation as ways to close these occupational gaps. Additionally, the influence of social stratification, job segregation, and historical legacies, such as the repercussions of the Jim Crow era, on these disparities merits further investigation. Addressing these issues is crucial for enhancing the health and wellbeing of all populations.}, }
@article {pmid38768208, year = {2024}, author = {Broad, HR and Dibnah, AJ and Smith, AE and Thornton, A}, title = {Anthropogenic disturbance affects calling and collective behaviour in corvid roosts.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {379}, number = {1905}, pages = {20230185}, pmid = {38768208}, issn = {1471-2970}, support = {//Leverhulme Trust/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Vocalization, Animal ; *Crows/physiology ; *Noise ; *Social Behavior ; Anthropogenic Effects ; Human Activities ; }, abstract = {Acoustic communication plays an important role in coordinating group dynamics and collective movements across a range of taxa. However, anthropogenic disturbance can inhibit the production or reception of acoustic signals. Here, we investigate the effects of noise and light pollution on the calling and collective behaviour of wild jackdaws (Corvus monedula), a highly social corvid species that uses vocalizations to coordinate collective movements at winter roosting sites. Using audio and video monitoring of roosts in areas with differing degrees of urbanization, we evaluate the influence of anthropogenic disturbance on vocalizations and collective movements. We found that when levels of background noise were higher, jackdaws took longer to settle following arrival at the roost in the evening and also called more during the night, suggesting that human disturbance may cause sleep disruption. High levels of overnight calling were, in turn, linked to disruption of vocal consensus decision-making and less cohesive group departures in the morning. These results raise the possibility that, by affecting cognitive and perceptual processes, human activities may interfere with animals' ability to coordinate collective behaviour. Understanding links between anthropogenic disturbance, communication, cognition and collective behaviour must be an important research priority in our increasingly urbanized world. This article is part of the theme issue 'The power of sound: unravelling how acoustic communication shapes group dynamics'.}, }
@article {pmid38768205, year = {2024}, author = {Walsh, SL and Townsend, SW and Engesser, S and Ridley, AR}, title = {Call combination production is linked to the social environment in Western Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen dorsalis).}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {379}, number = {1905}, pages = {20230198}, pmid = {38768205}, issn = {1471-2970}, support = {//Holsworth Wildlife Research Endowment/ ; //Ecological Society of Australia Incorporated/ ; //Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur F&#xf6;rderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Vocalization, Animal ; Western Australia ; Social Environment ; Social Behavior ; Male ; Passeriformes/physiology ; Female ; Songbirds/physiology ; }, abstract = {It has recently become clear that some language-specific traits previously thought to be unique to humans (such as the capacity to combine sounds) are widespread in the animal kingdom. Despite the increase in studies documenting the presence of call combinations in non-human animals, factors promoting this vocal trait are unclear. One leading hypothesis proposes that communicative complexity co-evolved with social complexity owing to the need to transmit a diversity of information to a wider range of social partners. The Western Australian magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen dorsalis) provides a unique model to investigate this proposed link because it is a group-living, vocal learning species that is capable of multi-level combinatoriality (independently produced calls contain vocal segments and comprise combinations). Here, we compare variations in the production of call combinations across magpie groups ranging in size from 2 to 11 birds. We found that callers in larger groups give call combinations: (i) in greater diversity and (ii) more frequently than callers in smaller groups. Significantly, these observations support the hypothesis that combinatorial complexity may be related to social complexity in an open-ended vocal learner, providing an important step in understanding the role that sociality may have played in the development of vocal combinatorial complexity. This article is part of the theme issue 'The power of sound: unravelling how acoustic communication shapes group dynamics'.}, }
@article {pmid38758592, year = {2024}, author = {Erker, TD and Arif, Y and John, JA and Embury, CM and Kress, KA and Springer, SD and Okelberry, HJ and McDonald, KM and Picci, G and Wiesman, AI and Wilson, TW}, title = {Neuromodulatory effects of parietal high-definition transcranial direct-current stimulation on network-level activity serving fluid intelligence.}, journal = {The Journal of physiology}, volume = {602}, number = {12}, pages = {2917-2930}, pmid = {38758592}, issn = {1469-7793}, support = {F30 AG076259/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; P20 GM144641/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; P20-GM144641//HHS | National Institutes of Health (NIH)/ ; F30-AG076259//HHS | National Institutes of Health (NIH)/ ; R01 MH116782/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; RF1 MH117032/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; S10 OD028751/OD/NIH HHS/United States ; S10-OD028751//HHS | National Institutes of Health (NIH)/ ; RF1-MH117032//HHS | National Institutes of Health (NIH)/ ; F32-NS119375//HHS | National Institutes of Health (NIH)/ ; R01-MH116782//HHS | National Institutes of Health (NIH)/ ; F32 NS119375/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation/methods ; Adult ; *Parietal Lobe/physiology ; Male ; Female ; *Intelligence/physiology ; Young Adult ; Nerve Net/physiology ; Magnetoencephalography/methods ; }, abstract = {Fluid intelligence (Gf) involves rational thinking skills and requires the integration of information from different cortical regions to resolve novel complex problems. The effects of non-invasive brain stimulation on Gf have been studied in attempts to improve Gf, but such studies are rare and the few existing have reached conflicting conclusions. The parieto-frontal integration theory of intelligence (P-FIT) postulates that the parietal and frontal lobes play a critical role in Gf. To investigate the suggested role of parietal cortices, we applied high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) to the left and right parietal cortices of 39 healthy adults (age 19-33 years) for 20 min in three separate sessions (left active, right active and sham). After completing the stimulation session, the participants completed a logical reasoning task based on Raven's Progressive Matrices during magnetoencephalography. Significant neural responses at the sensor level across all stimulation conditions were imaged using a beamformer. Whole-brain, spectrally constrained functional connectivity was then computed to examine the network-level activity. Behaviourally, we found that participants were significantly more accurate following left compared to right parietal stimulation. Regarding neural findings, we found significant HD-tDCS montage-related effects in brain networks thought to be critical for P-FIT, including parieto-occipital, fronto-occipital, fronto-parietal and occipito-cerebellar connectivity during task performance. In conclusion, our findings showed that left parietal stimulation improved abstract reasoning abilities relative to right parietal stimulation and support both P-FIT and the neural efficiency hypothesis. KEY POINTS: Abstract reasoning is a critical component of fluid intelligence and is known to be served by multispectral oscillatory activity in the fronto-parietal cortices. Recent studies have aimed to improve abstract reasoning abilities and fluid intelligence overall through behavioural training, but the results have been mixed. High-definition transcranial direct-current stimulation (HD-tDCS) applied to the parietal cortices modulated task performance and neural oscillations during abstract reasoning. Left parietal stimulation resulted in increased accuracy and decreased functional connectivity between occipital regions and frontal, parietal, and cerebellar regions. Future studies should investigate whether HD-tDCS alters abstract reasoning abilities in those who exhibit declines in performance, such as healthy ageing populations.}, }
@article {pmid38756014, year = {2024}, author = {}, title = {Retracted: "Optimized lung tumor diagnosis system using enhanced version of crow search algorithm, Zernike moments, and support vector machine".}, journal = {Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. Part H, Journal of engineering in medicine}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {9544119241255854}, doi = {10.1177/09544119241255854}, pmid = {38756014}, issn = {2041-3033}, }
@article {pmid38748646, year = {2024}, author = {Davies, JR and Garcia-Pelegrin, E and Clayton, NS}, title = {Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius) show episodic-like memory through the incidental encoding of information.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {19}, number = {5}, pages = {e0301298}, pmid = {38748646}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Memory, Episodic ; Mental Recall/physiology ; Passeriformes/physiology ; Male ; Female ; Humans ; }, abstract = {Episodic memory describes the conscious reimagining of our memories and is often considered to be a uniquely human ability. As these phenomenological components are embedded within its definition, major issues arise when investigating the presence of episodic memory in non-human animals. Importantly, however, when we as humans recall a specific experience, we may remember details from that experience that were inconsequential to our needs, thoughts, or desires at that time. This 'incidental' information is nevertheless encoded automatically as part of the memory and is subsequently recalled within a holistic representation of the event. The incidental encoding and unexpected question paradigm represents this characteristic feature of human episodic memory and can be employed to investigate memory recall in non-human animals. However, without evidence for the associated phenomenology during recall, this type of memory is termed 'episodic-like memory'. Using this approach, we tested seven Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius) on their ability to use incidental visual information (associated with observed experimenter made 'caches') to solve an unexpected memory test. The birds performed above chance levels, suggesting that Eurasian jays can encode, retain, recall, and access incidental visual information within a remembered event, which is an ability indicative of episodic memory in humans.}, }
@article {pmid38729409, year = {2024}, author = {Espinoza, MJ and Laviada, I and Taberner Cerezo, A and Luna, &#xc1; and Gil-Delgado, JA and Bernat-Ponce, E}, title = {Do birds select the plastics debris used for nest construction? A case study in a Mediterranean agricultural landscape.}, journal = {Environmental research}, volume = {255}, number = {}, pages = {119117}, doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2024.119117}, pmid = {38729409}, issn = {1096-0953}, mesh = {Animals ; *Plastics/analysis ; *Nesting Behavior ; *Agriculture ; Spain ; Waste Products/analysis ; Passeriformes ; Environmental Monitoring ; }, abstract = {Plastic pollution is becoming a global problem due to its ubiquitous occurrence and the impacts detected for many species. However, the research about plastics in nests of terrestrial bird species has remained relatively overlooked in comparison to those devoted to marine ecosystems. Here we study the occurrence and patterns of use of anthropogenic material in nests of two passerine birds, the Eurasian magpie (Pica pica) and the European serin (Serinus serinus), breeding in an orange tree cultivation in Mediterranean Spain. Our results show that both species use extensively plastic debris as nest material; almost 71% of the European serin nests and 96% of nests of Eurasian magpies contained plastic debris. Furthermore, by analyzing the plastic debris availability in the agricultural landscape surveyed we confirmed a selection pattern in the two species. Thus, both species preferably select plastic filaments over other plastic debris. The Eurasian magpie does not select plastic based on size or color but the European serin avoid black plastics prefer smaller fragments in comparison to the average size available. Moreover, we suggest the apparent similarity of plastic filaments with the natural materials typically used by these species, as well as how they use the plastic in their nests could influence their selection behavior. More studies focused on terrestrial birds inhabiting human modified habitats could offer a deeper approach to how plastic debris interacts with wildlife in different ways.}, }
@article {pmid38722645, year = {2024}, author = {Driscoll, RMH and Beaudry, FEG and Cosgrove, EJ and Bowman, R and Fitzpatrick, JW and Schoech, SJ and Chen, N}, title = {Allele frequency dynamics under sex-biased demography and sex-specific inheritance in a pedigreed jay population.}, journal = {Genetics}, volume = {227}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {38722645}, issn = {1943-2631}, support = {R35 GM133412/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; //National Science Foundation/ ; /NH/NIH HHS/United States ; 1939268//NSF Graduate Research Fellowship/ ; 2109639//NSF Postdoctoral Research Fellowship/ ; }, mesh = {Male ; Female ; *Gene Frequency ; Animals ; *Pedigree ; Models, Genetic ; }, abstract = {Sex-biased demography, including sex-biased survival or migration, can alter allele frequency changes across the genome. In particular, we can expect different patterns of genetic variation on autosomes and sex chromosomes due to sex-specific differences in life histories, as well as differences in effective population size, transmission modes, and the strength and mode of selection. Here, we demonstrate the role that sex differences in life history played in shaping short-term evolutionary dynamics across the genome. We used a 25-year pedigree and genomic dataset from a long-studied population of Florida Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) to directly characterize the relative roles of sex-biased demography and inheritance in shaping genome-wide allele frequency trajectories. We used gene dropping simulations to estimate individual genetic contributions to future generations and to model drift and immigration on the known pedigree. We quantified differential expected genetic contributions of males and females over time, showing the impact of sex-biased dispersal in a monogamous system. Due to female-biased dispersal, more autosomal variation is introduced by female immigrants. However, due to male-biased transmission, more Z variation is introduced by male immigrants. Finally, we partitioned the proportion of variance in allele frequency change through time due to male and female contributions. Overall, most allele frequency change is due to variance in survival and births. Males and females make similar contributions to autosomal allele frequency change, but males make higher contributions to allele frequency change on the Z chromosome. Our work shows the importance of understanding sex-specific demographic processes in characterizing genome-wide allele frequency change in wild populations.}, }
@article {pmid38715207, year = {2023}, author = {Prinja, S and Chugh, Y and Gupta, N and Aggarwal, V}, title = {Establishing a Health Technology Assessment Evidence Ecosystem in India's Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana.}, journal = {Health systems and reform}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {2327097}, doi = {10.1080/23288604.2024.2327097}, pmid = {38715207}, issn = {2328-8620}, mesh = {India ; *Technology Assessment, Biomedical/methods ; Humans ; Universal Health Insurance/trends ; Health Care Reform/methods/trends ; }, abstract = {The introduction of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) scheme in India was a significant step toward universal health coverage. The PM-JAY scheme has made notable progress since its inception, including increasing the number of people covered and expanding the range of services provided under the health benefit package (HBP). The creation of the Health Financing and Technology Assessment (HeFTA) unit within the National Health Authority (NHA) further enhanced evidence-based decision-making processes. We outline the journey of HeFTA and highlight significant cost savings to the PM-JAY as a result of health technology assessment (HTA). Our paper also discusses the application of HTA evidence for decisions related to inclusions or exclusions in HBP, framing standard treatment guidelines as well as other policies. We recommend that future financing reforms for strategic purchasing should strengthen strategic purchasing arrangements and adopt value-based pricing (VBP). Integrating HTA and VBP is a progressive approach toward health care financing reforms for large government-funded schemes like the PM-JAY.}, }
@article {pmid38701808, year = {2024}, author = {Westhoff, KM and Fischer, D and Jäger, K and Trinkaus, K and Ziegler, U and Lierz, M}, title = {Laryngeal and oropharyngeal adenocarcinoma with pulmonary metastases in a common raven (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Tierarztliche Praxis. Ausgabe K, Kleintiere/Heimtiere}, volume = {52}, number = {2}, pages = {125-129}, doi = {10.1055/a-2289-1297}, pmid = {38701808}, issn = {2567-5842}, mesh = {Animals ; Male ; *Lung Neoplasms/veterinary/pathology/secondary ; *Adenocarcinoma/veterinary/pathology/diagnosis ; *Bird Diseases/pathology ; *Oropharyngeal Neoplasms/veterinary/pathology ; *Laryngeal Neoplasms/veterinary/pathology ; Fatal Outcome ; }, abstract = {A captive 15-year-old male common raven (Corvus corax) was presented for post-mortem examination. It had been previously presented to a local veterinarian due to a 3-4 weeks long history of abnormal respiratory sounds. Upon admission, the bird demonstrated severe dyspnea and a massive amount of mucous in the oropharynx. After symptomatic treatment, dyspnea deteriorated dramatically, and euthanasia was elicited because of poor prognosis. The necropsy revealed a 2.65 x 2.15 x 2.18 cm expansile and poorly delineated cauliflower-shaped mass around the glottis and extending inside the tracheal lumen. Additionally, a dilated salivary gland in the adjacent tissue and multifocal reddish-fleshy areas in the lung parenchyma were detected. Histopathological examination identified the mass as moderately differentiated, tubular adenocarcinoma with invasive growth and moderate to marked cellular atypia and numerous mitoses. The presumptive origin of the neoplasia was one of the salivary glands. Multiple metastases were identified in the lung both macroscopically and histologically. Bacterial culture and molecular testing for West Nile and Usutu viruses were negative. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of metastatic laryngeal and oropharyngeal adenocarcinoma in a common raven.}, }
@article {pmid38701068, year = {2024}, author = {Stefanova, V and Scheepers, C and Wilson, P and Papageorgiou, KA}, title = {Grandiose narcissism associates with higher cognitive performance under stress through more efficient attention distribution: An eye-tracking study.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {19}, number = {5}, pages = {e0302644}, pmid = {38701068}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; *Narcissism ; *Cognition/physiology ; Adult ; *Attention/physiology ; Young Adult ; Eye-Tracking Technology ; Stress, Psychological ; Adolescent ; Self Concept ; }, abstract = {Narcissism is a part of the Dark Triad that consists also of the traits of Machiavellianism and psychopathy. Two main types of narcissism exist: grandiose and vulnerable narcissism. Being a Dark Triad trait, narcissism is typically associated with negative outcomes. However, recent research suggests that at least the grandiose type may be linked (directly or indirectly) to positive outcomes including lower levels of psychopathology, higher school grades in adolescents, deeper and more strategic learning in university students and higher cognitive performance in experimental settings. The current pre-registered, quasi-experimental study implemented eye-tracking to assess whether grandiose narcissism indirectly predicts cognitive performance through wider distribution of attention on the Raven's Progressive Matrices task. Fifty-four adults completed measures of the Dark Triad, self-esteem and psychopathology. Eight months to one year later, participants completed the Raven's, while their eye-movements were monitored during high stress conditions. When controlling for previous levels of psychopathology, grandiose narcissism predicted higher Raven's scores indirectly, through increased variability in the number of fixations across trials. These findings suggest that grandiose narcissism predicts higher cognitive performance, at least in experimental settings, and call for further research to understand the implications of this seemingly dark trait for performance across various settings.}, }
@article {pmid38689546, year = {2024}, author = {Storms, RF and Carere, C and Musters, R and Hulst, R and Verhulst, S and Hemelrijk, CK}, title = {A robotic falcon induces similar collective escape responses in different bird species.}, journal = {Journal of the Royal Society, Interface}, volume = {21}, number = {214}, pages = {20230737}, pmid = {38689546}, issn = {1742-5662}, support = {//Dutch Research Council (NWO)/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Escape Reaction/physiology ; *Falconiformes/physiology ; *Robotics ; Predatory Behavior/physiology ; Birds/physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Patterns of collective escape of a bird flock from a predator are fascinating, but difficult to study under natural conditions because neither prey nor predator is under experimental control. We resolved this problem by using an artificial predator (RobotFalcon) resembling a peregrine falcon in morphology and behaviour. We imitated hunts by chasing flocks of corvids, gulls, starlings and lapwings with the RobotFalcon, and compared their patterns of collective escape to those when chased by a conventional drone and, in case of starlings, hunted by wild peregrine falcons. Active pursuit of flocks, rather than only flying nearby by either the RobotFalcon or the drone, made flocks collectively escape more often. The RobotFalcon elicited patterns of collective escape in flocks of all species more often than the drone. Attack altitude did not affect the frequency of collective escape. Starlings escaped collectively equally often when chased by the RobotFalcon or a wild peregrine falcon. Flocks of all species reacted most often by collective turns, second most often by compacting and third by splitting into subflocks. This study demonstrates the potential of an artificial aerial predator for studying the collective escape behaviour of free-living birds, opening exciting avenues in the empirical study of prey-predator interactions.}, }
@article {pmid38687063, year = {2024}, author = {Chen, Z and Grim, CJ and Ramachandran, P and Meng, J}, title = {Advancing metagenome-assembled genome-based pathogen identification: unraveling the power of long-read assembly algorithms in Oxford Nanopore sequencing.}, journal = {Microbiology spectrum}, volume = {12}, number = {6}, pages = {e0011724}, pmid = {38687063}, issn = {2165-0497}, support = {U01 FD001418/FD/FDA HHS/United States ; U01FDU001418//HHS | U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)/ ; }, mesh = {*Algorithms ; *Metagenome ; *Nanopore Sequencing/methods ; *Genome, Bacterial ; *High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods ; Bacteria/genetics/classification/isolation &amp; purification ; Computational Biology/methods ; Salmonella enterica/genetics/classification/isolation &amp; purification ; Metagenomics/methods ; Pseudomonas aeruginosa/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/classification ; }, abstract = {Oxford Nanopore sequencing is one of the high-throughput sequencing technologies that facilitates the reconstruction of metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs). This study aimed to assess the potential of long-read assembly algorithms in Oxford Nanopore sequencing to enhance the MAG-based identification of bacterial pathogens using both simulated and mock communities. Simulated communities were generated to mimic those on fresh spinach and in surface water. Long reads were produced using R9.4.1+SQK-LSK109 and R10.4 + SQK-LSK112, with 0.5, 1, and 2 million reads. The simulated bacterial communities included multidrug-resistant Salmonella enterica serotypes Heidelberg, Montevideo, and Typhimurium in the fresh spinach community individually or in combination, as well as multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the surface water community. Real data sets of the ZymoBIOMICS HMW DNA Standard were also studied. A bioinformatic pipeline (MAGenie, freely available at https://github.com/jackchen129/MAGenie) that combines metagenome assembly, taxonomic classification, and sequence extraction was developed to reconstruct draft MAGs from metagenome assemblies. Five assemblers were evaluated based on a series of genomic analyses. Overall, Flye outperformed the other assemblers, followed by Shasta, Raven, and Unicycler, while Canu performed least effectively. In some instances, the extracted sequences resulted in draft MAGs and provided the locations and structures of antimicrobial resistance genes and mobile genetic elements. Our study showcases the viability of utilizing the extracted sequences for precise phylogenetic inference, as demonstrated by the consistent alignment of phylogenetic topology between the reference genome and the extracted sequences. R9.4.1+SQK-LSK109 was more effective in most cases than R10.4+SQK-LSK112, and greater sequencing depths generally led to more accurate results.IMPORTANCEBy examining diverse bacterial communities, particularly those housing multiple Salmonella enterica serotypes, this study holds significance in uncovering the potential of long-read assembly algorithms to improve metagenome-assembled genome (MAG)-based pathogen identification through Oxford Nanopore sequencing. Our research demonstrates that long-read assembly stands out as a promising avenue for boosting precision in MAG-based pathogen identification, thus advancing the development of more robust surveillance measures. The findings also support ongoing endeavors to fine-tune a bioinformatic pipeline for accurate pathogen identification within complex metagenomic samples.}, }
@article {pmid38686548, year = {2024}, author = {Reid, SM and Byrne, AMP and Lean, FZX and Ross, CS and Pascu, A and Hepple, R and Dominguez, M and Frost, S and Coward, VJ and Núñez, A and James, J and Stephan, L and Aegerter, JN and Brown, IH and Banyard, AC}, title = {A multi-species, multi-pathogen avian viral disease outbreak event: Investigating potential for virus transmission at the wild bird - poultry interface.}, journal = {Emerging microbes &amp; infections}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {2348521}, pmid = {38686548}, issn = {2222-1751}, mesh = {Animals ; *Influenza in Birds/transmission/virology/epidemiology ; *Chickens/virology ; *Animals, Wild/virology ; *Disease Outbreaks/veterinary ; *Influenza A Virus, H5N8 Subtype/isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity/genetics ; United Kingdom/epidemiology ; *Poultry Diseases/virology/transmission/epidemiology ; Poultry/virology ; Crows/virology ; Birds/virology ; }, abstract = {A free-range organic broiler (Gallus gallus domesticus) premises in Staffordshire was infected by high pathogenicity avian influenza virus (HPAIV) H5N8 during the 2020-2021 epizootic in the United Kingdom (UK). Following initial confirmation of the infection in poultry, multiple wild bird species were seen scavenging on chicken carcasses. Detected dead wild birds were subsequently demonstrated to have been infected and succumbed to HPAIV H5N8. Initially, scavenging species, magpie (Pica pica) and raven (Corvus corax) were found dead on the premises but over the following days, buzzards (Buteo buteo) were also found dead within the local area with positive detection of HPAIV in submitted carcasses. The subacute nature of microscopic lesions within a buzzard was consistent with the timeframe of infection. Finally, a considerable number of free-living pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) were also found dead in the surrounding area, with carcasses having higher viral antigen loads compared to infected chickens. Limited virus dissemination was observed in the carcasses of the magpie, raven, and buzzard. Further, an avirulent avian paramyxovirus type 1 (APMV-1) was detected within poultry samples as well as in the viscera of a magpie infected with HPAIV. Immunohistochemistry did not reveal colocalization of avian paramyxovirus antigens with lesions, supporting an avirulent APMV-1 infection. Overall, this case highlights scenarios in which bi-directional transmission of avian viral diseases between commercial and wild bird species may occur. It also underlines the importance of bio separation and reduced access when infection pressure from HPAIV is high.}, }
@article {pmid38685700, year = {2024}, author = {Davis, A and Furtak, A and Paterson, S and Velthuizen, R and Shen, J and Nip, J and Bappal, A and Lathrop, W and Villa, A and Lee, JM and Guelakis, M}, title = {Topical application of retinyl propionate, 4 hexyl resorcinol, and niacinamide reverses molecular and clinical features of ageing.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {46}, number = {5}, pages = {761-774}, doi = {10.1111/ics.12958}, pmid = {38685700}, issn = {1468-2494}, support = {//Unilever/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; Middle Aged ; Female ; Aged ; *Resorcinols/pharmacology/administration &amp; dosage ; *Administration, Topical ; *Niacinamide/analogs &amp; derivatives/pharmacology/administration &amp; dosage ; Adult ; Cosmetics/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Topical tretinoin is the mainstay of treatment for photoageing, despite the risk of skin irritation. Cosmetic combination anti-ageing formulations may offer similar efficacy to tretinoin, while improving on tolerability. We aim to demonstrate facial appearance benefits of a novel triple-active cosmetic formulation containing 4-hexylresorcinol, retinyl propionate, and niacinamide and to identify transcriptomic biomarkers underpinning these benefits.<br><br>METHODS: A cosmetic prototype formulation containing 4-hexylresorcinol, retinyl propionate, and niacinamide was evaluated ex&#xa0;vivo and in a clinical study. For ex&#xa0;vivo experiments, the cosmetic formulation was applied for 3&#x2009;days to healthy surgical discard skin from female donors aged 31-51&#x2009;years, with tissues harvested for gene expression and histologic analyses. In the clinical study, females aged 47-66&#x2009;years with moderate-to-severe overall visual photodamage on the face applied either topical 0.02% tretinoin or the cosmetic formulation to the face for 16&#x2009;weeks and to forearms for 1&#x2009;week, with forearm biopsies taken for gene expression analyses. Visual grading for facial photodamage and VISIA-CR images was taken throughout the clinical study. Safety was visually assessed during site visits, and adverse event monitoring was conducted throughout.<br><br>RESULTS: Gene expression analyses in both studies revealed modulation of pathways associated with skin rejuvenation, with several genes of interest identified due to being implicated in ageing and differentially expressed following the application of the cosmetic formulation. Reversal of a consensus skin ageing gene signature was observed with the cosmetic formulation and tretinoin in the ex&#xa0;vivo and clinical studies. Both the cosmetic formulation and tretinoin clinically improved the overall appearance of photoageing, crow's feet, lines, wrinkles, and pores. Adverse event reporting showed that the cosmetic formulation caused less skin irritation than tretinoin.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In a double-blind clinical study, the novel triple-active cosmetic combination formulation improved the visual appearance of photoageing similarly to prescription tretinoin. The cosmetic formulation and tretinoin reversed a consensus gene signature associated with ageing. Together with adverse event reporting, these results suggest that the cosmetic formulation may be a well-tolerated and efficacious alternative to tretinoin for improving the visual features of photoageing.}, }
@article {pmid38684368, year = {2024}, author = {Kersten, Y and Moll, FW and Erdle, S and Nieder, A}, title = {Input and Output Connections of the Crow Nidopallium Caudolaterale.}, journal = {eNeuro}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {38684368}, issn = {2373-2822}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows/physiology ; *Telencephalon/physiology/anatomy &amp; histology ; *Neural Pathways/physiology ; Male ; Neurons/physiology ; Female ; }, abstract = {The avian telencephalic structure nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL) functions as an analog to the mammalian prefrontal cortex. In crows, corvid songbirds, it plays a crucial role in higher cognitive and executive functions. These functions rely on the NCL's extensive telencephalic connections. However, systematic investigations into the brain-wide connectivity of the NCL in crows or other songbirds are lacking. Here, we studied its input and output connections by injecting retrograde and anterograde tracers into the carrion crow NCL. Our results, mapped onto a published carrion crow brain atlas, confirm NCL multisensory connections and extend prior pigeon findings by identifying a novel input from the hippocampal formation. Furthermore, we analyze crow NCL efferent projections to the arcopallium and report newly identified arcopallial neurons projecting bilaterally to the NCL. These findings help to clarify the role of the NCL as central executive hub in the corvid songbird brain.}, }
@article {pmid38683398, year = {2024}, author = {Smirnova, AA and Bulgakova, LR and Cheplakova, MA and Jelbert, SA}, title = {Hooded crows (Corvus cornix) manufacture objects relative to a mental template.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {27}, number = {1}, pages = {36}, pmid = {38683398}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {No. 23-28-00364//Russian Science Foundation Project/ ; No. 23-28-00364//Russian Science Foundation Project/ ; No. 23-28-00364//Russian Science Foundation Project/ ; }, mesh = {*Crows ; Animals ; *Tool Use Behavior ; Female ; Male ; Reward ; Cognition ; }, abstract = {It was recently found that not only tool-specialized New Caledonian crows, but also Goffin cockatoos can manufacture physical objects in accordance with a mental template. That is, they can emulate features of existing objects when they manufacture new items. Both species spontaneously ripped pieces of card into large strips if they had previously learned that a large template was rewarded, and small strips when they previously learned that a small template was rewarded. Among New Caledonian crows, this cognitive ability was suggested as a potential mechanism underlying the transmission of natural tool designs. Here, we tested for the same ability in another non-specialised tool user-Hooded crows (Corvus cornix). Crows were exposed to pre-made template objects, varying first in colour and then in size, and were rewarded only if they chose pre-made objects that matched the template. In subsequent tests, birds were given the opportunity to manufacture versions of these objects. All three crows ripped paper pieces from the same colour material as the rewarded template, and, crucially, also manufactured objects that were more similar in size to previously rewarded, than unrewarded, templates, despite the birds being rewarded at random in both tests. Therefore, we found the ability to manufacture physical objects relative to a mental template in yet another bird species not specialized in using or making foraging tools in the wild, but with a high level of brain and cognitive development.}, }
@article {pmid38682905, year = {2024}, author = {Jung, SG and Hwang, K and Hwang, YJ}, title = {Aging-Related Changes of the Historical Japanese Beauty, Ono no Komachi (, 825-900 AD).}, journal = {The Journal of craniofacial surgery}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1097/SCS.0000000000010182}, pmid = {38682905}, issn = {1536-3732}, abstract = {The aim of this study was to determine how the aging-related changes of a beautiful woman were described in Japanese literature. A poem written by Ono no Komachi was reviewed. Images of her were also searched through Google search. Komachi's poem in Hyakunin Isshu reads: "How the color has faded from the flowers. As I gaze in reverie at the falling rain, I find my beauty, too, has fallen in this world's esteem." Tamatsukuri Komachiko's Death Book describes: "She became thin and looked tired. Her hair looks like a lotus with frost. Her skin resembles a frozen pear. Her bones stick out and her tendons are visible. Her face is dark, and her teeth are yellow". Color woodblock print shows an old woman: She retains her intelligence and beauty even in her advanced years. Her posture was stooped, with a pronounced forward curvature of the spine, resulting as "turtle neck." Her hair was long and gray. Visible signs of aging included forehead wrinkles, crow's feet, deepened nasolabial folds, and marionette lines. Her upper jaw appeared retracted, a "witch's chin." She exhibited neck wrinkles as well as on her hands and wrists, which grasped a bamboo walking stick. Her eyes were sunken, accompanied by a drooping of the upper eyelids. We think that the narrative of her transformation into an ugly and poor woman was intended to convey to men the fleeting nature of women's beauty, and to women that the power of beauty is not ultimately of major significance.}, }
@article {pmid38675927, year = {2024}, author = {Brehm, AL and Dunham, TJ and Pinto, SM and Williams, KA and Coffin, KL and Ring, ME and Ratnayake, OC and Rovnak, J and Perera, R}, title = {The 23rd Annual Meeting of the Rocky Mountain Virology Association.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/v16040586}, pmid = {38675927}, issn = {1999-4915}, support = {R13AI179143/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Colorado ; Animals ; *Virology ; Virus Diseases/virology ; Viruses/genetics/classification ; Prions ; Arboviruses ; One Health ; }, abstract = {Located 50 miles west of Fort Collins, Colorado, Colorado State University's Mountain Campus in Pingree Park hosted the 23rd annual Rocky Mountain Virology Association meeting in 2023 with 116 participants. The 3-day event at the end of September consisted of 28 talks and 43 posters that covered the topics of viral evolution and surveillance, developments in prion research, arboviruses and vector biology, host-virus interactions, and viral immunity and vaccines. This year's Randall Jay Cohrs keynote presentation covered the topic of One Health and emerging coronaviruses. This timely discussion covered the importance of global disease surveillance, international collaboration, and trans-disciplinary research teams to prevent and control future pandemics. Peak fall colors flanked the campus and glowed along the multiple mountain peaks, allowing for pristine views while discussing science and networking, or engaging in mountain activities like fly fishing and hiking. On behalf of the Rocky Mountain Virology Association, this report summarizes select presentations from the 23rd annual meeting.}, }
@article {pmid38666841, year = {2024}, author = {van Hasselt, SJ and Coscia, M and Allocca, G and Vyssotski, AL and Meerlo, P}, title = {Sleep and Thermoregulation in Birds: Cold Exposure Reduces Brain Temperature but Has Little Influence on Sleep Time and Sleep Architecture in Jackdaws (Coloeus monedula).}, journal = {Biology}, volume = {13}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {38666841}, issn = {2079-7737}, support = {OCENW.KLEIN.240/NWO_/Dutch Research Council/Netherlands ; }, abstract = {Birds have an electrophysiological sleep state that resembles mammalian rapid-eye-movement (REM) sleep. However, whether its regulation and function are similar is unclear. In the current experiment, we studied REM sleep regulation in jackdaws (Coloeus monedula) by exposing the birds to low ambient temperature, a procedure that selectively suppresses REM sleep in mammals. Eight jackdaws were equipped with electrodes to record brain activity and neck muscle activity and a thermistor to record cortical brain temperature. Recordings covered a three-day period starting with a 24 h baseline day at an ambient temperature of 21 °C, followed by a 12 h cold night at 4 °C, after which the ambient temperature was restored to 21 °C for the remaining recovery period. Cold exposure at night caused a significant drop in brain temperature of 1.4 °C compared to the baseline night. However, throughout the cold night, jackdaws expressed NREM sleep and REM sleep levels that were not significantly different from the baseline. Also, EEG spectral power during NREM sleep was unaffected by cold exposure. Thus, while cold exposure had a clear effect on brain temperature in jackdaws, it did not have the same REM sleep suppressing effect reported for mammals. These findings suggest that the REM-sleep-like state in birds, unlike REM sleep in mammals, is protected against the influence of low temperature.}, }
@article {pmid38657438, year = {2024}, author = {Wada, Y and Ibrahim, AB and Umar, YA and Afolabi, HA and Wada, M and Alissa, M and Al Amri, KAS and Al Ibrahim, AA and Al Fares, MA and Albayat, H and AlKhathlan, MK and Al Kaabi, NA and Al-Subaie, MF and Alfaresi, M and Alrasheed, HA and Rabaan, AA and Yean, CY and Zaidah, AR}, title = {Status of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus in species of wild birds: A systematic review and meta-analysis.}, journal = {Journal of infection and public health}, volume = {17}, number = {6}, pages = {1023-1036}, doi = {10.1016/j.jiph.2024.04.004}, pmid = {38657438}, issn = {1876-035X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Animals, Wild/microbiology ; *Birds/microbiology ; *Gram-Positive Bacterial Infections/epidemiology/veterinary/microbiology ; Prevalence ; *Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Wild birds could be a reservoir of medically relevant microorganisms, particularly multidrug-resistant Enterococcus spp. Resistant bacteria's epidemiology and transmission between animals and humans has grown, and their zoonotic potential cannot be ignored. This is the first study to evaluate the status of vancomycin resistant enterococci (VRE) in various wild bird species using meta-analysis and a systematic review. In this study, the pooled prevalence was obtained by analyzing data from published articles on the occurrence of VRE in wild bird species. It's unclear how the antibiotic resistance gene transfer cycle affects wild birds. Google Scholar and PubMed were used to conduct the research. The data and study methodology was assessed and extracted by two reviewers independently, with a third reviewing the results. Heterogeneity between study and publication bias were analyzed using the random effect model. Thirty-eight studies were included in the meta-analysis. 382 out of the 4144 isolates tested, were VRE. The pooled prevalence of VRE among wild birds was estimated at 11.0% (95% CI; 6.9 -17.2%; I[2] = 93.204%; P < 0.001). There was high variability between study (t[2] = 2.156; heterogeneity I[2] = 93.204% with chi-square (Q) = 544.413, degrees of freedom (df) = 37, and P < 0.001). Egger's test verified the funnel plot's bias, while result from the leave-one-out forest plot had no effect on the pooled prevalence.}, }
@article {pmid38656932, year = {2024}, author = {Sutton, AO and Strickland, D and Lachapelle, J and Young, RG and Hanner, R and Brunton, DF and Skevington, JH and Freeman, NE and Norris, DR}, title = {Fecal DNA metabarcoding helps characterize the Canada jay's diet and confirms its reliance on stored food for winter survival and breeding.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {19}, number = {4}, pages = {e0300583}, pmid = {38656932}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Seasons ; *Feces/chemistry ; *Diet ; DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic/methods ; Passeriformes/physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; Breeding ; Canada ; DNA/analysis/genetics ; }, abstract = {Accurately determining the diet of wild animals can be challenging if food items are small, visible only briefly, or rendered visually unidentifiable in the digestive system. In some food caching species, an additional challenge is determining whether consumed diet items have been previously stored or are fresh. The Canada jay (Perisoreus canadensis) is a generalist resident of North American boreal and subalpine forests with anatomical and behavioural adaptations allowing it to make thousands of arboreal food caches in summer and fall that are presumably responsible for its high winter survival and late winter/early spring breeding. We used DNA fecal metabarcoding to obtain novel information on nestling diets and compiled a dataset of 662 published and unpublished direct observations or stomach contents identifications of natural foods consumed by Canada jays throughout the year. We then used detailed natural history information to make informed decisions on whether each item identified to species in the diets of winter adults and nestlings was best characterized as 'likely cached', 'likely fresh' (i.e., was available as a non-cached item when it appeared in a jay's feces or stomach), or 'either possible'. Of the 87 food items consumed by adults in the winter, 39% were classified as 'likely cached' and 6% were deemed to be 'likely fresh'. For nestlings, 29% of 125 food items identified to species were 'likely cached' and 38% were 'likely fresh'. Our results support both the indispensability of cached food for Canada jay winter survival and previous suggestions that cached food is important for late winter/early spring breeding. Our work highlights the value of combining metabarcoding, stomach contents analysis, and direct observations to determine the cached vs. non-cached origins of consumed food items and the identity of food caches, some of which could be especially vulnerable to degradation through climate change.}, }
@article {pmid38643223, year = {2024}, author = {Mansoor, MH and Lu, X and Woksepp, H and Sattar, A and Humak, F and Ali, J and Li, R and Bonnedahl, J and Mohsin, M}, title = {Detection and genomic characterization of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli harboring tet(X4) in black kites (Milvus migrans) in Pakistan.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {9054}, pmid = {38643223}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Tigecycline/pharmacology ; *Escherichia coli ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Klebsiella pneumoniae ; Pakistan ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics ; Birds/genetics ; Plasmids/genetics ; Genomics ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; }, abstract = {The emergence of plasmid-mediated tigecycline resistance gene tet(X4) among clinically relevant bacteria has promoted significant concerns, as tigecycline is considered a last-resort drug against serious infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria. We herein focused on the isolation and molecular characterization of tet(X4)-positive Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) in wild bird populations with anthropogenic interaction in Faisalabad, Pakistan. A total of 150 birds including black kites (Milvus migrans) and house crows (Corvus splendens) were screened for the presence of tigecycline resistance K. pneumoniae and E. coli. We found two K. pneumoniae and one E. coli isolate carrying tet(X4) originating from black kites. A combination of short- and long-read sequencing strategies showed that tet(X4) was located on a broad host range IncFII plasmid family in K. pneumoniae isolates whereas on an IncFII-IncFIB hybrid plasmid in E. coli. We also found an integrative and conjugative element ICEKp2 in K. pneumoniae isolate KP8336. We demonstrate the first description of tet(X4) gene in the WHO critical-priority pathogen K. pneumoniae among wild birds. The convergence of tet(X4) and virulence associated ICEKp2 in a wild bird with known anthropogenic contact should be further investigated to evaluate the potential epidemiological implications. The potential risk of global transmission of tet(X4)-positive K. pneumoniae and E. coli warrant comprehensive evaluation and emphasizes the need for effective mitigation strategies to reduce anthropogenic-driven dissemination of AMR in the environment.}, }
@article {pmid38640235, year = {2024}, author = {Zhang, C and Jia, B and Zhu, Y and Zhu, SC}, title = {Human-level few-shot concept induction through minimax entropy learning.}, journal = {Science advances}, volume = {10}, number = {16}, pages = {eadg2488}, pmid = {38640235}, issn = {2375-2548}, abstract = {Humans learn concepts both from labeled supervision and by unsupervised observation of patterns, a process machines are being taught to mimic by training on large annotated datasets-a method quite different from the human pathway, wherein few examples with no supervision suffice to induce an unfamiliar relational concept. We introduce a computational model designed to emulate human inductive reasoning on abstract reasoning tasks, such as those in IQ tests, using a minimax entropy approach. This method combines identifying the most effective constraints on data via minimum entropy with determining the best combination of them via maximum entropy. Our model, which applies this unsupervised technique, induces concepts from just one instance, reaching human-level performance on tasks of Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM), Machine Number Sense (MNS), and Odd-One-Out (O[3]). These results demonstrate the potential of minimax entropy learning for enabling machines to learn relational concepts efficiently with minimal input.}, }
@article {pmid38622257, year = {2024}, author = {Schumm, YR and Lederer-Ponzer, N and Masello, JF and Quillfeldt, P}, title = {High prevalence of haemosporidian parasites in Eurasian jays.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {123}, number = {4}, pages = {182}, pmid = {38622257}, issn = {1432-1955}, support = {LOEWE priority project Nature 4.0 - Sensing Biodiversity//Hessen State Ministry for Higher Education, Research and the Arts/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Parasites ; Prevalence ; DNA, Protozoan ; Phylogeny ; *Songbirds ; *Passeriformes ; *Haemosporida/genetics ; *Bird Diseases/epidemiology/parasitology ; *Protozoan Infections, Animal/epidemiology/parasitology ; }, abstract = {Avian haemosporidians are vector-borne parasites, infecting a great variety of birds. The order Passeriformes has the highest average infection probability; nevertheless, some common species of Passeriformes have been rather poorly studied. We investigated haemosporidians in one such species, the Eurasian jay Garrulus glandarius (Corvidae), from a forest population in Hesse, Central Germany. All individuals were infected with at least one haemosporidian genus (overall prevalence: 100%). The most common infection pattern was a mixed Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon infection, whereas no Plasmodium infection was detected. Results on lineage diversity indicate a rather pronounced host-specificity of Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon lineages infecting birds of the family Corvidae.}, }
@article {pmid38591218, year = {2024}, author = {De Tollenaere, M and Meunier, M and Lapierre, L and Chapuis, E and Guilleret, A and Harrison, I and Jean, T and Rannou, A and Scandolera, A and Reynaud, R}, title = {High molecular weight hyaluronic acid vectorised with clay provides long-term hydration and reduces skin brightness.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {30}, number = {4}, pages = {e13672}, pmid = {38591218}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Humans ; *Hyaluronic Acid/pharmacology/chemistry ; Clay ; Molecular Weight ; Skin ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a widely used active cosmetic ingredient. Its multiple skin care benefits are modulated by its molecular weight. Low molecular weight (LMW) HA can penetrate the skin, but high molecular weight (HMW) HA remains at the surface. Here, we assessed how vectorization of HMW HA with bentonite clay-achieved with an innovative technology-enhances its cosmetic and hydrating properties.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: The two HA forms were applied to skin explants; their penetration and smoothing effects were monitored by Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The two forms were biochemically characterised by chromatography, enzyme sensitivity assays, and analysis of Zeta potential. Cosmetics benefits such as, the smoothing effect of vectorised-HA was assessed in ex vivo experiments on skin explants. A placebo-controlled clinical study was finally conducted applying treatments for 28 days to analyse the final benefits in crow's feet area.<br><br>RESULTS: Raman spectroscopy analysis revealed native HMW HA to accumulate at the surface of skin explants, whereas vectorised HMW HA was detected in deeper skin layers. This innovative vectorisation process changed the zeta potential of vectorised HMW HA, being then more anionic and negative without impacting the biochemical structure of native HA. In terms of cosmetic benefits, following application of vectorised HMW HA ex vivo, the skin's surface was visibly smoother. This smoothing was clinically confirmed, with a significant reduction in fine lines.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The development of innovative process vectorising HMW HA allowed HMW HA penetration in the skin. This enhanced penetration extends the clinical benefits of this iconic cosmetic ingredient.}, }
@article {pmid38589583, year = {2024}, author = {Krige, Z and Spencer, EE and Crowther, MS and Dickman, CR and Newsome, TM}, title = {Flooding, season and habitat interact to drive changes in vertebrate scavenging and carcass persistence rates.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {204}, number = {4}, pages = {861-874}, pmid = {38589583}, issn = {1432-1939}, support = {Threatened Species Recovery Hub [Theme 1//Australian Government's National Environmental Science Program/ ; Subproject 1.1.11//Australian Government's National Environmental Science Program/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Floods ; *Ecosystem ; *Seasons ; Australia ; Vertebrates/physiology ; Food Chain ; Climate Change ; }, abstract = {Scavenging dynamics are influenced by many abiotic and biotic factors, but there is little knowledge of how scavengers respond to extreme weather events. As carrion is a major driver of the organisation and structure of food webs within ecological communities, understanding the response of scavengers to extreme weather events is critical in a world that is increasingly subject to climate change. In this study, vertebrate scavenging and carcass persistence rates were quantified in the Simpson Desert of central Australia; a system that experiences major fluctuations and extremes in weather conditions. Specifically, a total of 80 adult red kangaroo (Osphranter rufus) carcasses were placed on the landscape and monitored using remote sensor cameras. This included 40 carcasses monitored before and then 40 carcasses monitored after a major flooding event. The carcasses were monitored equally before and after the flood across different seasons (warm and cool) and in dune and interdune habitats. Overall, a total of 8124 scavenging events for 97,976 visitation minutes were recorded for 11 vertebrate species within 30 days of carcass placement pre- and post-flood. Vertebrate scavenging increased post-flood in the warm season, especially by corvids which quadrupled their scavenging events during this time. There was little difference in carcass persistence between habitats, but carcasses persisted 5.3-fold longer post-flood in warm seasons despite increased vertebrate scavenging. The results demonstrate that a flood event can influence scavenging dynamics and suggest a need to further understand how seasons, habitats and extreme weather events can drive changes in carrion-based food webs.}, }
@article {pmid38583936, year = {2024}, author = {Hu, B and Wang, JM and Zhang, QX and Xu, J and Xing, YN and Wang, B and Han, SY and He, HX}, title = {Enterococcus faecalis provides protection during scavenging in carrion crow (Corvus corone).}, journal = {Zoological research}, volume = {45}, number = {3}, pages = {451-463}, pmid = {38583936}, issn = {2095-8137}, mesh = {Animals ; Mice ; *Crows ; Enterococcus faecalis ; Ecosystem ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S ; Feeding Behavior ; Birds ; }, abstract = {The gut microbiota significantly influences host physiology and provides essential ecosystem services. While diet can affect the composition of the gut microbiota, the gut microbiota can also help the host adapt to specific dietary habits. The carrion crow (Corvus corone), an urban facultative scavenger bird, hosts an abundance of pathogens due to its scavenging behavior. Despite this, carrion crows infrequently exhibit illness, a phenomenon related to their unique physiological adaptability. At present, however, the role of the gut microbiota remains incompletely understood. In this study, we performed a comparative analysis using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing technology to assess colonic content in carrion crows and 16 other bird species with different diets in Beijing, China. Our findings revealed that the dominant gut microbiota in carrion crows was primarily composed of Proteobacteria (75.51%) and Firmicutes (22.37%). Significant differences were observed in the relative abundance of Enterococcus faecalis among groups, highlighting its potential as a biomarker of facultative scavenging behavior in carrion crows. Subsequently, E. faecalis isolated from carrion crows was transplanted into model mice to explore the protective effects of this bacterial community against Salmonella enterica infection. Results showed that E. faecalis down-regulated the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interferon gamma (IFN-γ), and interleukin 6 (IL-6), prevented S. enterica colonization, and regulated the composition of gut microbiota in mice, thereby modulating the host's immune regulatory capacity. Therefore, E. faecalis exerts immunoregulatory and anti-pathogenic functions in carrion crows engaged in scavenging behavior, offering a representative case of how the gut microbiota contributes to the protection of hosts with specialized diets.}, }
@article {pmid38583220, year = {2024}, author = {Melo-Souza, V and Gavrilov, A and Rossi-Santos, MR}, title = {Dropping a bombshell: Acoustic characterization of blast fishing in Todos os Santos Bay, Brazil, and its implication for marine conservation.}, journal = {Marine pollution bulletin}, volume = {202}, number = {}, pages = {116332}, doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116332}, pmid = {38583220}, issn = {1879-3363}, mesh = {Brazil ; *Bays ; *Acoustics ; *Fisheries ; Animals ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; Fishes ; Environmental Monitoring ; Explosions ; Ecosystem ; }, abstract = {Blast fishing is an illegal fishing method that not only affects fish populations and the marine ecosystem, but also local food security and local economy. Despite its effects, blast fishing continues to persist in many coastal regions around the world, including Todos os Santos Bay (BTS - Baia de Todos os Santos) in Northeastern Brazil. This study provides the first acoustic record of underwater explosions along this region. The acoustic data were collected between 2016 and 2018, from a boat-survey platform, using a portable system consisting of an HTI-90 min hydrophone (sensitivity of about -165 dB re 1 V/μPa) connected to a TASCAM DR-40 digital recorder (combined frequency response up to 30 kHz), recording at 7 m depth. The acoustic analysis was performed using both RAVEN 1.6 and MATLAB 2021a softwares. The results revealed a distinctive underwater explosion signal detected in the BTS, indicating evidence of blast fishing activities. The acoustic characterization of blast fishing in BTS provides crucial information on its occurrence and extent of this destructive practice worldwide.}, }
@article {pmid38582185, year = {2024}, author = {Maruyama, M and Ushine, N and Watanabe, Y and Ishii, C and Saito, K and Sakai, H and Kuritani, T and Doya, R and Ogasawara, K and Ikenaka, Y and Yohannes, YB and Ishizuka, M and Nakayama, SMM}, title = {Current situation of lead (Pb) exposure in raptors and waterfowl in Japan and difference in sensitivity to in vitro lead exposure among avian species.}, journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)}, volume = {349}, number = {}, pages = {123907}, doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123907}, pmid = {38582185}, issn = {1873-6424}, mesh = {Animals ; *Lead/blood/metabolism ; Japan ; *Raptors/metabolism ; *Environmental Pollutants/blood ; *Birds/metabolism ; Environmental Monitoring/methods ; Lead Poisoning/veterinary ; Environmental Exposure/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Crows ; }, abstract = {Although lead (Pb) poisoning in wild birds has been considered a serious problem in Japan for over 30 years, there is little information about Pb exposure and its sources throughout Japan except for Hokkaido. Furthermore, to identify and effectively prioritize the conservation needs of highly vulnerable species, differences in sensitivity to Pb exposure among avian species need to be determined. Therefore, we investigated the current situation of Pb exposure in raptors (13 species, N = 82), waterfowl (eight species, N = 44) and crows (one species, N = 6) using concentration and isotope analysis. We employed blood or tissue samples collected in various Japanese facilities mainly in 2022 or 2023. We also carried out a comparative study of blood δ-ALAD sensitivity to in vitro Pb exposure using blood of nine avian species. Pb concentrations in the blood or tissues displayed increased levels (>0.1 μg/g blood) in two raptors (2.4%), ten waterfowl (23%) and one crow (17%). Among them, poisoning levels (>0.6 μg/g blood) were found in one black kite and one common teal. The sources of Pb isotope ratios in ten blood samples with high Pb levels were determined as deriving from shot pellets (N = 9) or rifle bullets (N = 1). In the δ-ALAD study, red-crowned crane showed the highest sensitivity among the nine tested avian species and was followed in order by five Accipitriformes species (including white-tailed and Steller's sea eagle), Blakiston's fish owl, Muscovy duck and chicken, suggesting a genetically driven variance in susceptibility. Further studies on contamination conditions and exposure sources are urgently needed to inform strict regulations on the usage of Pb ammunition. Furthermore, detailed examinations of δ-ALAD sensitivity, interspecific differences, and other factors involved in the variability in sensitivity to Pb are required to identify and prioritize highly sensitive species.}, }
@article {pmid38571527, year = {2024}, author = {Cheyette, SJ and Piantadosi, ST}, title = {Response to Difficulty Drives Variation in IQ Test Performance.}, journal = {Open mind : discoveries in cognitive science}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {265-277}, pmid = {38571527}, issn = {2470-2986}, abstract = {In a large (N = 300), pre-registered experiment and data analysis model, we find that individual variation in overall performance on Raven's Progressive Matrices is substantially driven by differential strategizing in the face of difficulty. Some participants choose to spend more time on hard problems while others choose to spend less and these differences explain about 42% of the variance in overall performance. In a data analysis jointly predicting participants' reaction times and accuracy on each item, we find that the Raven's task captures at most half of participants' variation in time-controlled ability (48%) down to almost none (3%), depending on which notion of ability is assumed. Our results highlight the role that confounding factors such as motivation play in explaining individuals' differential performance in IQ testing.}, }
@article {pmid38564380, year = {2024}, author = {Farris, P and Berson, D and Bhatia, N and Goldberg, D and Lain, E and Mariwalla, K and Zeichner, J and Miller, D and McGuire, T and Kizoulis, M}, title = {Efficacy and Tolerability of Topical 0.1% Stabilized Bioactive Retinol for Photoaging: A Vehicle-Controlled Integrated Analysis.}, journal = {Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {209-215}, doi = {10.36849/JDD.8124}, pmid = {38564380}, issn = {1545-9616}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Administration, Cutaneous ; Double-Blind Method ; Retinoids ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; Tretinoin/adverse effects ; *Vitamin A ; Adult ; Controlled Clinical Trials as Topic ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Chronic exposure to ultraviolet light photoages skin. Retinol, a precursor molecule to retinoic acid that causes less irritation, is available as a nonprescription, cosmetic retinoid and improves collagen production, skin elasticity, and signs of photoaging. Advances in formulation science have allowed the production of stabilized bioactive retinol formulations. This integrated analysis aims to build on previous studies and further examine the comprehensive efficacy and tolerability of topical 0.1% stabilized bioactive retinol.<br><br>METHODS: This analysis included 6 vehicle-controlled studies of 0.1% stabilized bioactive retinol in women with mild-to-moderate signs of photodamage. Across all studies, the same dermatologist investigator assessed overall photodamage; wrinkles on the forehead, cheeks, and undereye area; crow&rsquo;s feet wrinkles and fine lines; lack of even skin tone; and brown spots at baseline and weeks 4, 8, and 12 on a numerical scale. Tolerability was also assessed.<br><br>RESULTS: Participants (retinol, N=237; vehicle, N=234) had a mean (SD) age of 47.4 (6.6) years. Retinol induced greater improvements from baseline in all signs of photoaging vs vehicle as early as week 4 and through 12 weeks of application. Few participants experienced irritation; all events were mild to moderate and transient. The most common signs of irritation were erythema (n=2) and skin scaling/peeling (n=5).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This pooled analysis of 6 vehicle-controlled clinical studies provides new evidence for the efficacy of 0.1% stabilized bioactive retinol in improving signs of photoaging without causing major irritation. Topical 0.1% stabilized bioactive retinol was well tolerated with only a few reported cases of skin irritation. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(4):&amp;nbsp; &amp;nbsp; &amp;nbsp;doi:10.36849/JDD.8124.}, }
@article {pmid38563943, year = {2024}, author = {Wadas, MJ and White, WJ and LeFevre, HJ and Kuranz, CC and Towne, A and Johnsen, E}, title = {Hydrodynamic Mechanism for Clumping along the Equatorial Rings of SN1987A and Other Stars.}, journal = {Physical review letters}, volume = {132}, number = {11}, pages = {111201}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevLett.132.111201}, pmid = {38563943}, issn = {1079-7114}, abstract = {An explanation for the origin and number of clumps along the equatorial ring of Supernova 1987A has eluded decades of research. Our linear analysis and hydrodynamic simulations of the expanding ring prior to the supernova reveal that it is subject to the Crow instability between vortex cores. The dominant wave number is remarkably consistent with the number of clumps, suggesting that the Crow instability stimulates clump formation. Although the present analysis focuses on linear fluid flow, future nonlinear analysis and the incorporation of additional stellar physics may further elucidate the remnant structure and the evolution of the progenitor and other stars.}, }
@article {pmid38557350, year = {2024}, author = {Wang, Z and Mayer, CH and Li, J}, title = {A psychobiographical analysis of Empress Dowager Cixi: exploring the femininity castrated complex.}, journal = {International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England)}, volume = {36}, number = {1-2}, pages = {56-68}, doi = {10.1080/09540261.2023.2274934}, pmid = {38557350}, issn = {1369-1627}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Animals ; *Femininity ; *Chickens ; }, abstract = {In Chinese culture, there is a widely circulated phrase, 'A hen crows in the morning'. This phrase is used to humiliate women who steal power and engage in the political field. It demonstrates the complicated relationship between women and power in the context of Chinese culture. Women are not completely excluded from the politics, but women in power are often stigmatised. This study explores the life of Empress Dowager Cixi (1835-1908), the last female dominator in Chinese history, takes psychobiography as the research method, and attempts to understand the complicated relationship between women and power in Chinese culture through analysing Cixi's life from the perspective of complex and cultural complex theory which originated with C.G. Jung and analytical theory. The research findings show that humiliating and suppressing women with political talent can trigger their complexes, both personal and cultural. This study attempts to propose the femininity castrated complex to better describe the conscious and unconscious psychological dynamics impacting on women within patriarchal, political Chinese culture. This complex further relates to (1) denying her biological sex in order to avoid accusations of superego and, (2) the relationship with her son who is not only her son, but also her enemy regarding (political) power.}, }
@article {pmid38553766, year = {2024}, author = {Chambon, R and Paillisson, JM and Fournier-Sowinski, J and Dugravot, S}, title = {Agricultural habitat use and selection by a sedentary bird over its annual life cycle in a crop-depredation context.}, journal = {Movement ecology}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {26}, pmid = {38553766}, issn = {2051-3933}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Modern agriculture has undoubtedly led to increasing wildlife-human conflicts, notably concerning bird damage in productive and attractive crops during some parts of the annual cycle. This issue requires utmost attention for sedentary birds that may impact agricultural crops at any stage of their annual life cycle. Reducing bird-human conflicts requires a better understanding of the relationship between bird foraging activity and the characteristics of agricultural areas, notably with respect to changes in food-resource availability and crop sensitivity across the year.<br><br>METHODS: We explored how GPS-tagged adult male western jackdaws- sedentary corvids- utilize agricultural areas throughout their annual cycle, in a context of crop depredation. More precisely, we described their daily occurrence distribution and the extent of habitat use and selection consistency with respect to landscape composition across time.<br><br>RESULTS: Jackdaws moved in the close agricultural surroundings of their urban nesting place over the year (<&#x2009;2.5&#xa0;km from the nest, on average). Daily occurrence distributions were restricted (<&#x2009;2.2&#xa0;km[2]), relatively centered on the nesting locality (distance between the daily occurrence centroid and the nest&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.9&#xa0;km), and rather spatially stable during each annual life-cycle period (overlap range: 63.4-76.1%). Their foraging patterns highlighted that they fed mainly in grasslands all year round, and foraged complementarily and opportunistically in maize (during sowing- coinciding with the first stages of the birds' breeding period) and cereal crops (during harvesting- their post-fledging period).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our findings demonstrate the very limited space use by breeding male jackdaws which foraged preferentially in grasslands. We call for future investigations in other agricultural contexts and also considering non-breeders for extrapolation purposes.}, }
@article {pmid38545615, year = {2024}, author = {Hooper, R and Maher, K and Moore, K and McIvor, G and Hosken, D and Thornton, A}, title = {Ultimate drivers of forced extra-pair copulations in birds lacking a penis: jackdaws as a case-study.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {231226}, pmid = {38545615}, issn = {2054-5703}, support = {/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {Forced copulation is common, presumably because it can increase male reproductive success. Forced extra-pair copulation (FEPC) occurs in birds, even though most species lack a penis and are widely thought to require female cooperation for fertilization. How FEPC persists, despite a presumed lack of siring success and likely non-negligible costs to the male, is unknown. Using the jackdaw (Corvus monedula) as a case study, we use SNPs to quantify the extra-pair paternity rate through FEPC and evaluate explanations for the persistence of FEPC in species without a penis. We then collate evidence for FEPC across penis-lacking birds. Combining genetic and behavioural analyses, our study suggests that the most likely explanations for the maintenance of FEPC in jackdaws are that it provides a selective advantage to males or it is a relic. Our literature review shows that across birds lacking a penis, FEPC is taxonomically widespread, and yet, little is known about its evolution. A broader implementation of the approach used here, combining both genetic and behavioural data, may shed light on why this widespread sexual behaviour persists. Additional work is necessary to understand whether a penis is needed for paternity through forced copulation and to quantify the costs of FEPC.}, }
@article {pmid38545558, year = {2024}, author = {Tummeleht, L and Häkkä, SSS and Jürison, M and Vilem, A and Nurmoja, I and Viltrop, A}, title = {Wild boar (Sus scrofa) carcasses as an attraction for scavengers and a potential source for soil contamination with the African swine fever virus.}, journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {1305643}, pmid = {38545558}, issn = {2297-1769}, abstract = {The wild boar (Sus scrofa) is a social animal species native to Eurasia. During the last decade, the wild boar population in Estonia has been severely affected by the African swine fever virus (ASFV), which has also affected domestic pig farming. The potential transmission routes of ASFV remain unclear and are currently under intensive investigation. This pilot study aimed to clarify the frequency and characteristics of contacts between living wild boars and the carcasses of their conspecifics, which could play a role in the transmission of ASFV. Wild animals' contact and scavenging behavior on wild boar carcasses were studied using trail cameras in an experimental setting on Hiiumaa, Western Estonia. Four legally hunted carcasses were used in the present study. This study aimed to determine whether intraspecies scavenging occurs in wild boars. The persistence of ASFV DNA in soil contaminated with infected wild boar carcasses was investigated separately. Among the 17 identified wildlife species that visited wild boar carcasses, the common raven (Corvus corax) was the most frequent one (37.26%), followed by raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides; 4.25%), carcass conspecific/wild boars (3.16%), and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes; 2.14%). Regarding the direct contact with the carcass, the same species ranking was detected: common raven (74.95%), raccoon dogs (9.94%), wild boars (4.21%), and red foxes (4.21%). No clear signs of cannibalism were noted among the wild boars, although brief physical contact with the carcasses was evident. The persistence of ASFV DNA in soil contaminated by infected wild boar carcasses was investigated separately. This study revealed that ASFV DNA from infected carcasses could be detected in forest soil for prolonged periods, even after removing the carcasses. Hence, the carcasses of infected wild boars may play an important role in spreading the African swine fever virus in wild boar populations; thus, prompt removal and disinfection of the soil could be considered necessary to limit the spread of the infection.}, }
@article {pmid38541285, year = {2024}, author = {Held, S and Feng, D and McCormick, A and Schure, M and Other Medicine, L and Hallett, J and Inouye, J and Allen, S and Holder, S and Bull Shows, B and Trottier, C and Kyro, A and Kropp, S and Turns Plenty, N}, title = {The Báa nnilah Program: Results of a Chronic-Illness Self-Management Cluster Randomized Trial with the Apsáalooke Nation.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {21}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {38541285}, issn = {1660-4601}, support = {U01 MD010619/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; U01MD010619/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; U54GM104944/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; P20GM103474/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; P20 GM103474/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; U54 GM104944/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *American Indian or Alaska Native ; Chronic Disease ; Community-Based Participatory Research/methods ; *Indians, North American ; *Self-Management ; }, abstract = {Indigenous people in Montana are disproportionately affected by chronic illness (CI), a legacy of settler colonialism. Existing programs addressing CI self-management are not appropriate because they are not consonant with Indigenous cultures in general and the Apsáalooke culture specifically. A research partnership between the Apsáalooke (Crow Nation) non-profit organization Messengers for Health and Montana State University co-developed, implemented, and evaluated a CI self-management program for community members. This article examines qualitative and quantitative program impacts using a pragmatic cluster randomized clinical trial design with intervention and waitlist control arms. The quantitative and qualitative data resulted in different stories on the impact of the Báa nnilah program. Neither of the quantitative hypotheses were supported with one exception. The qualitative data showed substantial positive outcomes across multiple areas. We examine why the data sets led to two very different stories, and provide study strengths and limitations, recommendations, and future directions.}, }
@article {pmid38538209, year = {2024}, author = {Shatkovska, OV and Ghazali, M and Mytiai, IS and Stegney, MM}, title = {Patterns of integrated growth of body parts in Rook (Corvus frugilegus) ontogeny.}, journal = {Journal of morphology}, volume = {285}, number = {4}, pages = {e21690}, doi = {10.1002/jmor.21690}, pmid = {38538209}, issn = {1097-4687}, support = {2020.02/0247//National Research Foundation of Ukraine/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Wings, Animal ; Chickens ; Hindlimb ; Forelimb ; }, abstract = {The early period of ontogeny is key to understanding the patterns of body plan formation in birds. Most studies of avian development have focused on the development of individual avian characters, leaving their developmental integration understudied. We explored the dynamics and integration of relative percentage increments in body mass, lengths of head, skeletal elements of wing and leg, and primary flight feathers in the embryonic and postnatal development of the Rook (Corvus frugilegus). The relative percentage increments were calculated according to Brody's equation. Groups of similar growing traits (modules) were determined using hierarchical cluster analysis, and the degree of correlation between modules was estimated by PLS analysis. The embryonic and postnatal periods demonstrate significant consistency both in the dynamics of changes in relative percentage increments of studied traits as well as in the clustering of individual modules. The modules mainly include the body mass and head length, as well as the elements that form the fore- and hind limbs. Differences were revealed in the combination of modules into clusters in embryonic and postnatal periods. Hind limb elements clustered together with wing elements in the embryonic period but with body mass and the head in the postnatal period. The strongest modularity was noted for the leg in embryogenesis, and for the wing in postnatal development. The forelimb and especially the primary feathers had more distinctive growth patterns. We suggest the changes in the degree of integration between locomotor modules in ontogenesis are connected with the earlier functioning of the legs in the postnatal period and with the preparation of the wings for functioning after a chick leaves the nest.}, }
@article {pmid38537165, year = {2024}, author = {Edwards-Grossi, &#xc8; and Willoughby, CDE}, title = {Slavery and Its Afterlives in US Psychiatry.}, journal = {American journal of public health}, volume = {114}, number = {S3}, pages = {S250-S257}, pmid = {38537165}, issn = {1541-0048}, mesh = {Humans ; *Enslavement ; Mental Health ; *Psychiatry/history ; Socioeconomic Factors ; United States ; *Black or African American/psychology ; }, abstract = {Antecedents of racist treatments of Black patients by the psychiatric profession in the United States affect the way they view treatment today. Specifically, in this essay, we explore the enduring consequences of racial science on various treatment practices. We examined a range of primary sources on the history of racial theories about the mind, medical and psychiatric publications, and hospitals. We contextualize this analysis by examining the secondary literature in the history and sociology of psychiatry. Through analyzing racial thinking from the antebellum through the Jim Crow periods, we show how US medicine and psychiatry have roots in antebellum racial science and how carceral logics underpinned the past and present politics of Black mental health. Changing this trajectory requires practitioners to interrogate the historical foundations of racist psychiatric concepts. This essay urges them to reject biological racial realism, which bears reminiscences to 19th-century racial science, and embrace the variable of race as a social construct to study social inequalities in health as a first step toward moving away from the legacies of past injustices in medicine. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S3):S250-S257. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307554).}, }
@article {pmid38536907, year = {2024}, author = {Humpenöder, F and Popp, A and Merfort, L and Luderer, G and Weindl, I and Bodirsky, BL and Stevanović, M and Klein, D and Rodrigues, R and Bauer, N and Dietrich, JP and Lotze-Campen, H and Rockström, J}, title = {Food matters: Dietary shifts increase the feasibility of 1.5°C pathways in line with the Paris Agreement.}, journal = {Science advances}, volume = {10}, number = {13}, pages = {eadj3832}, pmid = {38536907}, issn = {2375-2548}, mesh = {Feasibility Studies ; *Diet ; *Greenhouse Gases ; Food ; Carbon Dioxide/metabolism ; Climate Change ; Greenhouse Effect ; }, abstract = {A transition to healthy diets such as the EAT-Lancet Planetary Health Diet could considerably reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, the specific contributions of dietary shifts for the feasibility of 1.5°C pathways remain unclear. Here, we use the open-source integrated assessment modeling (IAM) framework REMIND-MAgPIE to compare 1.5°C pathways with and without dietary shifts. We find that a flexitarian diet increases the feasibility of the Paris Agreement climate goals in different ways: The reduction of GHG emissions related to dietary shifts, especially methane from ruminant enteric fermentation, increases the 1.5°C compatible carbon budget. Therefore, dietary shifts allow to achieve the same climate outcome with less carbon dioxide removal (CDR) and less stringent CO2 emission reductions in the energy system, which reduces pressure on GHG prices, energy prices, and food expenditures.}, }
@article {pmid38518171, year = {2024}, author = {Bibi, C and Nigar, Z}, title = {Clinical Evaluation of a Topical Unani Polyherbal Formulation in the Management of Photodamaged Facial skin: An open-label Standard Controlled Trial.}, journal = {Alternative therapies in health and medicine}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {16-23}, pmid = {38518171}, issn = {1078-6791}, mesh = {Humans ; Middle Aged ; Female ; Male ; Adult ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; Medicine, Unani/methods ; Aged ; Face ; Administration, Topical ; Phytotherapy/methods ; Plant Extracts/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Ageing is a natural process of life. With increasing age, the skin suffers progressive morphological and physiological decrement. Hyperpigmentation, Wrinkles, and roughness of skin are some of the symptoms of aged skin. Exposure to sunlight, pollution, stress, nicotine, etc aggravates Skin aging. This study aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of polyherbal formulation and compare its efficacy with the standard drug tretinoin in subjects of moderate to advanced Photoaged facial skin. Ingredients of polyherbal formulation are Aarade baqla (Vicia faba), Jau (Hordeum vulgare), Nakhud (Cicer arietinum),Masoor (Lens esculenta), Tukhm e turb (Raphanus sativus), Khardal (Brassica nigra), Haldi (Curcuma longa), Kateera (Cochlospermum religiosum).<br><br>METHODS: This was a randomized open-label standard controlled study. 82 eligible subjects were allocated equally into test and control groups by computer-generated random numbers. In the test group, a paste of 15 gm polyherbal formulation in milk, and the control group, 0.025% Tretinoin 1 gram was used topically on the face once a day for two months. The response was assessed by theclinician using following different scales for different parameters.<br><br>It was assessed by the Skin Hyperpigmentation Index online calculator (SHI). It describes the ratio of two scores, namely the hyperpigmented skin of the affected area and normal sun-protected skin from the same patient. The image was recorded with a Digital microscope-Win7 from a hyperpigmented area and normal sun-protected area. Both the images were uploaded on https://shi.skinimageanalysis.com/ and calculated the mean value of hyperpigmentation. SHI ranges from 1 (no hyperpigmentation) to 4 (maximum hyperpigmentation) where scores between 1 and 2 showed as light hyperpigmentation, 2-3 as medium hyperpigmentation, and scores between 3 and 4 as severe hyperpigmentation.<br><br>ASSESSMENT OF FINE WRINKLES: Fine wrinkles number was determined by digital photography. The photographs were taken through Canon EOS 1500D DSLR Camera with an 18-55 mm Lens. Three images were taken of each subject's face (right, left, and center full face) on Baseline and Day 15th, 30th, 45th, and 60th to assess visible changes/improvement in their fine wrinkles score.<br><br>ASSESSMENT OF NASOLABIAL FOLD: Modified Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Scale (MFWS) was used to assess Nasolabial folds. The scale comprised four main classes of Nasolabial wrinkling: 0, 1, 2, and 3 representing absent, fine, moderate, and deep wrinkles, respectively, and three inter classes i.e., 0.5, 1.5, and 2.5 to estimate wrinkle depth. The definitions of the entire classes of the scale are as follows: Class 0 = No wrinkle. No visible wrinkle; continuous skin line; Class 0.5 = Very shallow yet visible wrinkle; Class 1= Fine wrinkle. Visible wrinkle and slight indentation; Class 1.5= Visible wrinkle and clear indentation. <1-mm wrinkle depth; Class 2= Moderate wrinkle. Visible wrinkle, 1- to 2-mm wrinkle depth; Class 2.5= Prominent and visible wrinkle. More than 2-mm and less than 3-mm wrinkle depth; Class 3=Deep wrinkle. Deep and furrow wrinkle; more than 3-mm wrinkle depth.<br><br>Forehead lines were assessed (number and depth) by a Validated Grading Scale for Forehead Lines. The Forehead Lines Grading Scale is a 5- point photonumeric rating scale that was developed to objectively quantify resting (static) and hyperkinetic (dynamic) forehead lines. The scale ratings are 0 for no wrinkles, 1 for no wrinkles present at rest but fine lines with facial expression, 2 for fine wrinkles present at rest and deep lines with facial expression, 3 for fine wrinkles present at rest and deeper lines with facial expression, and 4 for deeper wrinkles at rest and deeper furrows with facial expression.<br><br>The number of lateral canthal lines was determined by a Validated Grading Scale for Crow's Feet. The Crow's Feet Grading Scale is a 5- point photonumeric rating scale developed to objectively quantify the severity of crow's feet. This scale was applied to two separate evaluations of crow's feet: at rest (static) and with expression (dynamic). The scale ratings are 0 for no wrinkles, 1 for very fine wrinkles, 2 for fine wrinkles, 3 for moderate wrinkles, and 4 for severe wrinkles.<br><br>The Allergan Skin Roughness Scale was used for facial skin roughness assessment. The area of assessment for the Allergan Skin roughness Scale is the area between the nasolabial fold to the preauricular cheek and from the inferior orbital rim to the mandible. The Allergan Skin Roughness Scale assigns a grade from none (0) to extreme (4) that describes the severity of skin coarseness, crosshatching, and elastosis in the midface area. The scale grading are 0 (None) Smooth visual skin texture, 1 (Minimal) Slightly coarse and uneven visual skin texture, 2 (Moderate) Moderately coarse and uneven visual skin texture; may have early elastosis, 3 (Severe) Severely coarse visual skin texture, cross-hatched fine lines; may have some elastosis, and 4 (Extreme) Extremely coarse visual skin texture, cross Hatched deep creases; extreme elastosis.<br><br>ASSESSMENT OF FACIAL DULLNESS: Dullness was assessed on a clinical basis with an arbitrary scoring ranging from 0 to 9 where 0-3=mild, 3.5-6=moderate, and 6.5-9=severe facial skin dullness.<br><br>ASSESSMENT OF QUALITY OF LIFE: Subjects' life quality was assessed by the Dermatology Life Quality Index questionnaire. It consists of 10 questions. Each question is scored on a four-point Likert scale: Very much = 3, A lot = 2, A little = 1, Not at all = 0, Not relevant = 0 and Question unanswered = 0. The DLQI is calculated by adding the score of each question, resulting in a maximum of 30 and a minimum of 0. Where, 0-1= no effect at all on patient's life, 2-5 = small effect on patient's life, 6-10 = moderate effect on patient's life, 11-20 = very large effect on patient's life, 21-30 = extremely large effect on patient's life.<br><br>RESULTS: Both groups showed a significant improvement in Fine Wrinkles, Forehead Lines, Crow's Feet, Roughness, Dullness, Nasolabial Fold, Hyperpigmentation, and Quality of Life parameters. (P < .001) A large number of subjects in the control group reported mild to moderate redness, itching, dryness, and blackening of the skin, while in the test group, absolutely no side effects were reported during treatment.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The effects in both groups were substantial, but the polyherbal formulation is safe and effective for use in photoaged facial skin. It may be a more feasible easily accessible cheap and safe formulation to prevent skin aging and restore skin elasticity and make skin brighter. Further studies to evaluate the efficacy of formulation on objective parameters using standard instruments should be done for appropriate measurements of parameters.}, }
@article {pmid38514912, year = {2024}, author = {Hernández, LAP and Hernández, AMP and Castelanich, D and Shitara, D and Chacín, M}, title = {A novel hybrid BonT-A and hyaluronic acid cannula-based technique for eyelid ptosis and periorbital rejuvenation.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {23}, number = {6}, pages = {2001-2006}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.16264}, pmid = {38514912}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//Universidad Sim&#xf3;n Bol&#xed;var/ ; //Internal Funds for Research Strengthening from Universidad Sim&#xf3;n Bol&#xed;var, Vicerrector&#xed;a de Investigaci&#xf3;n, Extensi&#xf3;n e Innovaci&#xf3;n, Barranquilla, Colombia/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Hyaluronic Acid/administration &amp; dosage ; *Blepharoptosis ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage ; *Rejuvenation ; *Cannula ; *Eyelids ; Female ; Cosmetic Techniques/instrumentation ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; Treatment Outcome ; Oculomotor Muscles/drug effects ; Male ; Neuromuscular Agents/administration &amp; dosage ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Eyelid ptosis is characterized by an inferior displacement of the upper eyelid when the eye assumes its primary position. Besides its aesthetic implications, ptosis can also adversely affect visual acuity.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the simultaneous administration of IncobotulinumtoxinA (IncoBonTA) and hyaluronic acid effect in eyelid ptosis and ocular rejuvenation.<br><br>METHODS: A novel, non-surgical technique for eyelid ptosis management involving IncoBonTA and hyaluronic acid the co-administration within a single syringe, and applied using a cannula.<br><br>RESULTS: The dual action of IncoBonTA and hyaluronic acid in conjunction with the exact injection sites approaches improves overall aesthetic outcomes but also optimizes the restoration of eyelid functionality in palpebral ptosis.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The functional balance achieved among the contributory muscles-primarily the orbicularis oculi (OO) and its antagonists, the frontal muscle and levator palpebrae superioris (LPS), yields to both, cosmetic and functional.}, }
@article {pmid38512931, year = {2024}, author = {Gutema, BT and Tariku, EZ and Melketsedik, ZA and Levecke, B and De Henauw, S and Abubakar, A and Abbeddou, S}, title = {Assessing the influence of COVID-19 lockdown measures on cognition and behavior in school age children in Arba Minch Health and Demographic Surveillance site, Southern Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study.}, journal = {PLOS global public health}, volume = {4}, number = {3}, pages = {e0002978}, pmid = {38512931}, issn = {2767-3375}, abstract = {Ethiopian schools were closed for nearly 40 weeks as a measure to control the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of the study was to evaluate the role of COVID-19 pandemic's restrictive measures on cognition and behavioral difficulties of schoolchildren in Arba Minch Health and Demographic Surveillance Site. Two cross-sectional surveys were conducted in November 2019 (pre-COVID-19-lockdown) and November 2020 (post-COVID-19 lockdown). Data were collected both at the school and homes of the children. Cognitive development of the children was assessed using digit span, Raven's coloured progressive matrices (RCPM) and Visual search using cancellation task. Behavioral difficulties score of the children was assessed using Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to compare between the cognition outcomes and behavioral difficulties score pre- and post-COVID-19-lockdown. In a sub-group of children who provided data in both surveys, the difference in cognitive and behavioral outcomes was tested using a mixed effect model. Compared to the pre-COVID-19-lockdown, schoolchildren post-COVID-19-lockdown scored lower in the standardized performance index for the visual search task, which measures attention (0.27 SD, 95% confidence intervals (95%CI): -0.40, -0.13). However, they scored higher by 0.26 SD (95%CI: 0.13, 0.40) and 0.36 SD (95%CI: 0.22, 0.49) in digit span and RCPM, respectively, measuring working memory and non-verbal intelligence. There was no significant difference in total difficulties score between pre- and post-COVID-19-lockdown (0.01 SD, 95%CI: -0.12, 0.15). The subgroup analysis showed a significant increase in digit span among children post-COVID-19-lockdown while the other domains did not show a significant change. Factors contributing to the improvement of children's cognitive domains while away from the school environment should be explored and utilized to enhance child development. This study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT04137354 on October 14, 2019.}, }
@article {pmid38507327, year = {2024}, author = {López-Vázquez, MA and Varela-Montes, J and Serrano-Corral, ML and Junco-Muñoz, ML and Olvera-Cortés, ME}, title = {Pressure control and treatment interact in the deterioration of incidental visuospatial memory in hypertensive patients.}, journal = {Archivos de cardiologia de Mexico}, volume = {94}, number = {1}, pages = {25-32}, pmid = {38507327}, issn = {1665-1731}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; *Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *Hypertension/complications/drug therapy/epidemiology ; Antihypertensive Agents/therapeutic use ; Blood Pressure ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Systemic hypertension (SH) is the main risk factor to cognitive deterioration, whereas visuospatial memory is more vulnerable to ageing. Some antihypertensive agents have a neuroprotector effect, however, such effects could be masked by comorbidities and/or the lack of effective control on the arterial pressure of patients.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To assess this, the evaluation of incidental visuospatial memory of SH patients and the relation to the treatment received and the effective control of pressure were made.<br><br>METHOD: 80 patients (46 woman) were included grouped by the received medication: angiotensin 2 receptor blockers (ARB) or angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI). A multiple correlation analysis between visuospatial scores and clinical variables was made; also, a mixed model analysis (fixed factors: treatment, pressure control, diabetes comorbidity; aleatory factors: age, schooling, months from SH diagnoses).<br><br>RESULTS: Half of the patients had a controlled pressure, from them the higher proportion received ARB, and a minor number of patients received ACEI. The normotensive patients receiving ACEI were inefficient whereas the hypertensive patients were more efficient. The systolic pressure was negatively related with the visuospatial scores in spite of no correlations occurred with MoCA and Raven tests.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The visuospatial incidental/intentional scores were negatively correlated with systolic pressure. The efficiency in the visuospatial ability depends on the interaction of treatment and effective control of blood pressure. The interaction between treatment and effective pressure control must be taken in count when cognitive deterioration is studied.}, }
@article {pmid38495912, year = {2024}, author = {Trehan, A and Anand, R and Chaudhary, G and Garg, H and Verma, MK}, title = {Efficacy and Safety of Skin Radiance Collagen on Skin and Hair Matrix: A Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial in Healthy Human Subjects.}, journal = {Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology}, volume = {17}, number = {}, pages = {581-591}, pmid = {38495912}, issn = {1178-7015}, abstract = {PURPOSE: Collagen supplements are rising in the market as collagen has been demonstrated to be an important protein in the human aging process. Also, it is safe and easily absorbed in the body. Hence the aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness and safety of a collagen and antioxidant-rich treatment compared to a placebo in relation to various skin and hair indicators in healthy adult human subjects.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: Forty healthy adult non-pregnant/non-lactating women (aged 38-50 years) provided their informed consent in writing before their participation. Skin Radiance Collagen (SRC) treatment and a placebo were assessed for efficacy before application on Day 1, and post-application on Days 28 and 56, to measure changes in skin elasticity, hydration, brightness, pigmentation; texture, wrinkles, dryness, smoothness, fine lines, changes in the crow's feet region; as well as hair strength and hair fall.<br><br>RESULTS: It was observed after 56 days that therapy with SRC, compared to placebo, produced a substantial effect on reduction of wrinkle depth and fine lines by 48.11% and 39%, respectively, with p-value <0.01 in the test group. There was a 15.69% improvement in skin hydration observed and 28% reduction in hair fall with p-value <0.01.<br><br>CONCLUSION: SRC, a combination of collagen with hyaluronic acid (HA), biotin, and vitamins C and E, showed a significant improvement in skin and hair health, including improvements in skin elasticity, skin hydration, reduction in crow's feet area wrinkles and fine lines, hair fall, and decrease in roughness, leading to improved skin texture. Vitamin C in the formulation also acts as a collagen builder for the body and helps in preventing oxidative stress in the body. The test treatment SRC was found to be efficacious and safe in healthy human adult subjects.}, }
@article {pmid38483609, year = {2024}, author = {González, L and Popovic, M and Rebagliato, M and Estarlich, M and Moirano, G and Barreto-Zarza, F and Richiardi, L and Arranz, E and Santa-Marina, L and Zugna, D and Ibarluzea, J and Pizzi, C}, title = {Socioeconomic position, family context, and child cognitive development.}, journal = {European journal of pediatrics}, volume = {183}, number = {6}, pages = {2571-2585}, pmid = {38483609}, issn = {1432-1076}, support = {FP7-ENV-2011 cod 282957, HEALTH.2010.2.4.5-1 and ATHLETE cod 874583//UE/ ; Red INMA G03/176, CB06/02/0041; FIS-FEDER: PI06/0867, PI09/00090, PI11/02038, PI13/02187, PI16/1288, and PI17/00663, PI18/01142 and PI19/1338//ISCIII/ ; Margarita Salas Grant MS21-125//European Union-Next Generation EU and the Ministerio de Universidades/ ; AICO/2020/285; CIAICO/2021/132//Generalitat Valenciana/ ; 2005111093, 2009111069, 2013111089 and 2015111065//Department of Health of the Basque Government/ ; DFG06/002, DFG08/001 and DFG15/221//Provincial Government of Gipuzkoa/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Child Development ; Child ; Male ; *Cognition/physiology ; *Social Class ; Longitudinal Studies ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Parenting/psychology ; }, abstract = {Socioeconomic position (SEP) may have different effects on cognitive development and family context could play a role in this association. This work aimed to analyse the role of socioeconomic positions, measured via various indicators collected longitudinally, in cognitive development at 7-11 years of age, evaluating the role of family context as a potential mediator. The study sample included 394 and 382 children from the INMA Gipuzkoa and Valencia cohorts, respectively. SEP indicators were assessed during pregnancy (family social class, parental education, employment, and disposable income) and at 7 (Gipuzkoa) and 11 (Valencia) years of age (At Risk of Poverty or Social Exclusion (AROPE)). Family context and cognitive development were measured with the Haezi-Etxadi Family Assessment Scale 7-11 (HEFAS 7-11) and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (Raven's CPM), respectively. Linear regression models were developed to assess the relationships between (a) SEP-family context, (b) SEP-cognitive development, and (c) family context-cognitive development, adjusting for a priori-selected confounders. Simple and multiple mediation analyses were performed to explore the role of family context in the SEP-cognitive development relationship. Lower SEP was related with a lower cognitive score, this association being particularly robust for family social class. SEP indicators were related to subscales of family context, in particular those regarding cognitive stimulation, parental stress, and parenting. A relationship was also found between these three subscales and child cognitive development, mediating the effect of family social class on child cognition by 5.2, 5.5, and 10.8%, respectively, and 12.0% jointly. Conclusion: Both family SEP and context contribute to a child's cognitive development. Equalising policies and positive parenting programmes could contribute to improving cognitive development in children. What is Known: • Parental social class, education, and employment status have been widely employed to measure socioeconomic position. What is New: • This work focuses on standard measurements of socioeconomic position but also other economic indicators such as the EHII and AROPE, and their effect on child cognitive development and family context. • Promotion of cognitive and linguistic development, parental stress and conflict, and parental profile fostering child development mediated the effect of family social class on cognitive development.}, }
@article {pmid38483002, year = {2024}, author = {Mazengenya, P and Spocter, MA and Manger, PR}, title = {Nuclear parcellation and numbers of orexinergic neurons in five species of larger brained birds.}, journal = {The Journal of comparative neurology}, volume = {532}, number = {3}, pages = {e25602}, doi = {10.1002/cne.25602}, pmid = {38483002}, issn = {1096-9861}, support = {//Carnegie Corporation of New York/ ; 2022-IRG-MED-3//Ajman University Research Grant/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Neuropeptides/metabolism ; Phylogeny ; Neurons/metabolism ; Orexins ; Brain/metabolism ; Hypothalamus/metabolism ; Birds ; Mammals ; }, abstract = {The orexinergic/hypocretinergic system, while having several roles, appears to be a key link in the balance between arousal and food intake. In birds, to date, this system has only been examined anatomically in four species, all with brains smaller than 3.5 g and of limited phylogenetic range. Here, using orexin-A immunohistochemistry, we describe the distribution, morphology, and nuclear parcellation of orexinergic neurons within the hypothalami of a Congo gray and a Timneh gray parrot, a pied crow, an emu, and a common ostrich. These birds represent a broad phylogeny, with brains ranging in size from 7.85 to 26.5 g. Within the hypothalami of the species studied, the orexinergic neurons were organized in two clusters, and a densely packed paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus cluster located within the medial hypothalamus (Hyp), but not contacting the ventricle, and a more loosely packed lateral hypothalamic cluster in the lateral Hyp. Stereological analysis revealed a strong correlation, using phylogenetic generalized least squares regression analyses, between brain mass and the total number of orexinergic neurons, as well as soma parameters such as volume and area. Orexinergic axonal terminals evinced two types of boutons, larger and the smaller en passant boutons. Unlike the orexinergic system in mammals, which has several variances in cluster organization, that of the birds studied, in the present and previous studies, currently shows organizational invariance, despite the differences in brain and body mass, phylogenetic relationships, and life-histories of the species studied.}, }
@article {pmid38481983, year = {2024}, author = {Speechley, EM and Ashton, BJ and Thornton, A and Simmons, LW and Ridley, AR}, title = {Heritability of cognitive performance in wild Western Australian magpies.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {231399}, pmid = {38481983}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {Individual differences in cognitive performance can have genetic, social and environmental components. Most research on the heritability of cognitive traits comes from humans or captive non-human animals, while less attention has been given to wild populations. Western Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen dorsalis, hereafter magpies) show phenotypic variation in cognitive performance, which affects reproductive success. Despite high levels of individual repeatability, we do not know whether cognitive performance is heritable in this species. Here, we quantify the broad-sense heritability of associative learning ability in a wild population of Western Australian magpies. Specifically, we explore whether offspring associative learning performance is predicted by maternal associative learning performance or by the social environment (group size) when tested at three time points during the first year of life. We found little evidence that offspring associative learning performance is heritable, with an estimated broad-sense heritability of just -0.046 ± 0.084 (confidence interval: -0.234/0.140). However, complementing previous findings, we find that at 300 days post-fledging, individuals raised in larger groups passed the test in fewer trials compared with individuals from small groups. Our results highlight the pivotal influence of the social environment on cognitive development.}, }
@article {pmid38476711, year = {2024}, author = {Maryan, RE and Feizbakhsh, M and Esmaeilian, Z and Sedaghati, G}, title = {Comparison of intelligent development (IQ &amp; EQ) of children with cleft lip and palate.}, journal = {Dental research journal}, volume = {21}, number = {}, pages = {16}, pmid = {38476711}, issn = {1735-3327}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Attention to the issue of intelligence and its promotion in children with cleft lip and cleft palate (CL and CP) is necessary to reduce their injuries in life. This study aimed to determine the intelligence quotient (IQ) and emotional intelligence (EQ) in children with CL and CP in comparison to healthy children.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this descriptive study, 140 children, including 70 children with CL and CP, were selected from the Children treated in Craniofacial and Cleft Research Center, Spearman correlation, ANOVA and 70 healthy children were selected from the Pediatric Dentistry Department of Isfahan University, in the age range of 5-9 years. After obtaining the consent of the children's parents, the Raven IQ questionnaire and the Mayer and Salovey EQ questionnaire were given to the children. Data were analyzed by the Pearson correlation coefficient tests (&#x3b1; =0.05).<br><br>RESULTS: EQ score in healthy children was significantly higher than in children with CL and CP (P < 0.001). The percentage of IQ cognitive intelligence in healthy children and children with CL and CP was not significantly different (P = 0.641). In healthy children, no significant relationship was observed between cognitive intelligence IQ and EQ (r = 0.018, P = 0.882). However, among children with CL and CP, there was a significant inverse relationship between cognitive intelligence IQ and EQ (P < 0.001, r = -0.526).<br><br>CONCLUSION: CL and CP have no effect on IQ in children, but it does affect EQ.}, }
@article {pmid38476507, year = {2024}, author = {Musharbash, IJ and Chakra, RJ}, title = {Treatment of Full Eyelid Ptosis Following Botox Injection: A Case Report.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {16}, number = {3}, pages = {e55970}, pmid = {38476507}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {We report the case of a 24-year-old woman who was referred to one of the authors' clinics after six days of botulinum toxin type A injection to treat dynamic lines on her forehead, glabella complex, and crow's feet area. Her first esthetic injection was done by another colleague elsewhere in a different clinic. Her main complaint was full eyelid ptosis, which started four days after her treatment and continued to aggravate until the time she sought our help. We treated it with another dose of botulinum toxins. The patient started to notice a gradual improvement in her eyelid five days after our injection, so on day 14th, her eyelid was very closely back to normal opening; complete recovery was achieved. Ptosis due to botulinum toxin injection was surprisingly and successfully reversed in our article by a second dose of botulinum toxins. This suggests that this management successfully treats such cases and can deliver a beneficial reversal option for practitioners and their patients. The case report concludes that ptosis should be promptly evaluated and treated through a multimodal approach.}, }
@article {pmid38464619, year = {2024}, author = {Scognamiglio, C and Sorge, A and Borrelli, G and Perrella, R and Saita, E}, title = {Exploring the connection between childhood trauma, dissociation, and borderline personality disorder in forensic psychiatry: a comprehensive case study.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {15}, number = {}, pages = {1332914}, pmid = {38464619}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {This case study examines the complex relationship between childhood trauma, dissociation, and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) within the context of forensic psychiatry. It focuses on a young murder defendant named "Paul," who has experienced various traumatic events, including childhood maltreatment and domestic violence. These experiences have led to dissociative states marked by high emotional intensity, particularly of an aggressive nature, and impaired impulse control, resulting in violent behavior during dissociative episodes. The study employs advanced assessment tools like Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM), the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory-III (MCMI-III), and the Level of Service/Case Management Inventory (LS/CMI) to gain a comprehensive understanding of Paul's psychopathological condition, risk factors, and rehabilitation needs. The LS/CMI assessment highlights a high risk of recidivism, mainly influenced by family relationships, educational challenges, interpersonal connections, and aggressive tendencies. To address the multifaceted needs of individuals like Paul, the study emphasizes the importance of using transdiagnostic models for trauma and dissociation. This approach informs tailored treatment programs that include processing past traumatic experiences, improving self-identity, nurturing healthy relational patterns, and enhancing emotional regulation. Although this study is based on a single case, it serves as a model for integrating assessment tools and theoretical-clinical models in the field of forensic psychiatry. Understanding the intricate dynamics of childhood trauma, dissociation, and BPD is crucial for making informed decisions, conducting risk assessments, and developing rehabilitation programs within the justice system. Future research should expand the scope of cases and further validate assessment tools to advance our understanding of this complex relationship.}, }
@article {pmid38460703, year = {2024}, author = {Jin, T and Huang, T and Zhang, T and Li, Q and Yan, C and Wang, Q and Chen, X and Zhou, J and Sun, Y and Bo, W and Luo, Z and Li, H and An, Y}, title = {A Bayesian benchmark concentration analysis for urinary fluoride and intelligence in adults in Guizhou, China.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {925}, number = {}, pages = {171326}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171326}, pmid = {38460703}, issn = {1879-1026}, mesh = {Child ; Adult ; Humans ; *Fluorides/analysis ; *Fluorosis, Dental/epidemiology ; Benchmarking ; Bayes Theorem ; Intelligence ; China/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Environmental fluoride exposure has been linked to numerous cases of fluorosis worldwide. Previous studies have indicated that long-term exposure to fluoride can result in intellectual damage among children. However, a comprehensive health risk assessment of fluorosis-induced intellectual damage is still pending. In this research, we utilized the Bayesian Benchmark Dose Analysis System (BBMD) to investigate the dose-response relationship between urinary fluoride (U-F) concentration and Raven scores in adults from Nayong, Guizhou, China. Our research findings indecate a dose-response relationship between the concentration of U-F and intelligence scores in adults. As the benchmark response (BMR) increased, both the benchmark concentration (BMCs) and the lower bound of the credible interval (BMCLs) increased. Specifically, BMCs for the association between U-F and IQ score were determined to be 0.18 mg/L (BMCL1 = 0.08 mg/L), 0.91 mg/L (BMCL5 = 0.40 mg/L), 1.83 mg/L (BMCL10 = 0.83 mg/L) when using BMRs of 1 %, 5 %, and 10 %. These results indicate that U-F can serve as an effective biomarker for monitoring the loss of IQ in population. We propose three interim targets for public policy in preventing interllectual harm from fluoride exposure.}, }
@article {pmid38440084, year = {2024}, author = {Bibi, N and Yuan, Q and Chen, C and Chen, S and Duan, Y and Luo, X}, title = {Three cases of collared owlet depredation on the green-backed tit within nest boxes.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {e11083}, pmid = {38440084}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {The main cause of the reproductive failure of cavity-nesting birds is nest predation, even though cavity nests protect from numerous predators. To study the breeding biology of the green-backed tit (Parus monticolus) and to promote the reproduction of some other avian cavity breeders, we placed 245 nest boxes in the Zixi Mountain, southwest China. We collected breeding data by regularly checking the artificial nest boxes, three cases of green-backed tits being predated by collared owlet (Glaucidium brodiei) were confirmed by the video recordings. Larger mammals, chipmunks, squirrels, sparrowhawks, jays, and snakes have been identified as common predators of cavity-nesting birds in high-latitude regions of the northern hemisphere. Limited research in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Asia, has demonstrated squirrels and snakes as common predators of cavity-nesting birds. A gap in avian predators to cavity-nesting birds exists in the current knowledge. Hence the three cases of collared owlet's depredation reveal a new danger to green-backed tits, broadening our knowledge of the dynamics of cavity-nesting birds. In all three cases, the artificial box's entrance hole was only 5 × 5 cm in size and has not been expanded or poked. These findings provided evidence that the collared owlet is the predator of nestlings and adult green-backed tit breeding in artificial boxes, which emphasized a reevaluation of predator-prey interactions. Therefore, for effective breeding of the green-backed tit, we suggest to choose a hole size of 3 × 3 cm that is appropriate for its body size.}, }
@article {pmid38431156, year = {2024}, author = {Meeraus, W and Joy, M and Ouwens, M and Taylor, KS and Venkatesan, S and Dennis, J and Tran, TN and Dashtban, A and Fan, X and Williams, R and Morris, T and Carty, L and Kar, D and Hoang, U and Feher, M and Forbes, A and Jamie, G and Hinton, W and Sanecka, K and Byford, R and Anand, SN and Hobbs, FDR and Clifton, DA and Pollard, AJ and Taylor, S and de Lusignan, S}, title = {AZD1222 effectiveness against severe COVID-19 in individuals with comorbidity or frailty: The RAVEN cohort study.}, journal = {The Journal of infection}, volume = {88}, number = {4}, pages = {106129}, doi = {10.1016/j.jinf.2024.106129}, pmid = {38431156}, issn = {1532-2742}, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 ; *COVID-19 ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; *Crows ; *Frailty/epidemiology ; Cohort Studies ; Comorbidity ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Despite being prioritized during initial COVID-19 vaccine rollout, vulnerable individuals at high risk of severe COVID-19 (hospitalization, intensive care unit admission, or death) remain underrepresented in vaccine effectiveness (VE) studies. The RAVEN cohort study (NCT05047822) assessed AZD1222 (ChAdOx1 nCov-19) two-dose primary series VE in vulnerable populations.<br><br>METHODS: Using the Oxford-Royal College of General Practitioners Clinical Informatics Digital Hub, linked to secondary care, death registration, and COVID-19 datasets in England, COVID-19 outcomes in 2021 were compared in vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals matched on age, sex, region, and multimorbidity.<br><br>RESULTS: Over 4.5 million AZD1222 recipients were matched (mean follow-up &#x223c;5 months); 68% were &#x2265;50 years, 57% had high multimorbidity. Overall, high VE against severe COVID-19 was demonstrated, with lower VE observed in vulnerable populations. VE against hospitalization was higher in the lowest multimorbidity quartile (91.1%; 95% CI: 90.1, 92.0) than the highest quartile (80.4%; 79.7, 81.1), and among individuals &#x2265;65 years, higher in the 'fit' (86.2%; 84.5, 87.6) than the frailest (71.8%; 69.3, 74.2). VE against hospitalization was lowest in immunosuppressed individuals (64.6%; 60.7, 68.1).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Based on integrated and comprehensive UK health data, overall population-level VE with AZD1222 was high. VEs were notably lower in vulnerable groups, particularly the immunosuppressed.}, }
@article {pmid38422615, year = {2024}, author = {Johnson, SD and Lehner, A and Dirikolu, L and Buchweitz, J}, title = {Ciprofloxacin enhances therapeutic levels of voriconazole through CYP450 inhibition in the common raven (Corvus corax), possibly improving efficacy against aspergillosis: a pilot study.}, journal = {American journal of veterinary research}, volume = {85}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.2460/ajvr.23.12.0288}, pmid = {38422615}, issn = {1943-5681}, mesh = {*Voriconazole/pharmacokinetics/therapeutic use ; Animals ; *Ciprofloxacin/pharmacokinetics/therapeutic use ; Pilot Projects ; *Aspergillosis/veterinary/drug therapy ; *Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacokinetics ; *Bird Diseases/drug therapy/microbiology ; Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme Inhibitors/pharmacology ; Male ; Female ; Random Allocation ; Administration, Oral ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine if a cytochrome (CYP) P450 enzyme inhibitor can maintain therapeutic plasma levels of voriconazole when administered orally.<br><br>ANIMALS: 11 healthy, common ravens (Corvus corax).<br><br>METHODS: Birds were randomly assigned to pilot study groups to receive voriconazole orally alone or combined with a CYP inhibitor. Pilot studies with 3 CYP inhibitors launched the main study using ciprofloxacin (20 mg/kg) followed 1 hour later by voriconazole (6 mg/kg) every 12 hours for 14 days. Plasma voriconazole concentrations were measured at various time points by HPLC-MS. The study period lasted from September 2016 to December 2020.<br><br>RESULTS: The birds failed to maintain therapeutic plasma levels of voriconazole during multidose administration alone or following preadministration with various CYP inhibitors. For the 14-day study period, voriconazole reached a maximum plasma concentration of 2.99 &#x3bc;g/mL with a time-to-peak drug concentration of 1.2 hours following preadministration of ciprofloxacin. One bird was removed from the study due to lethargy, but the other birds completed the study without incident.<br><br>CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Ciprofloxacin (20 mg/kg) followed by voriconazole (6 mg/kg) maintained the concentration of voriconazole within the recommended therapeutic range of 0.5 to 5 &#x3bc;g/mL without toxicity. Ciprofloxacin prevented the saturable metabolism of voriconazole and maintained these levels for the study duration. This drug combination could be used in the treatment of chronic aspergillosis in the common raven.}, }
@article {pmid38420775, year = {2024}, author = {Rampling, JM}, title = {Citrination and its Discontents: Yellow as a Sign of Alchemical Change.}, journal = {Ambix}, volume = {71}, number = {1}, pages = {73-97}, doi = {10.1080/00026980.2024.2309059}, pmid = {38420775}, issn = {1745-8234}, mesh = {*Alchemy ; England ; *Awards and Prizes ; *Drama ; }, abstract = {Many of the "signs and tokens" described in alchemical texts relate to colour, from the Crow's Bill signifying putrefaction to the philosophical solvents disguised as Green Lions, Red Dragons, and Grey Wolves. While the process of yellowing, or citrination, often appears in medieval recipes, it seems to have interested commentators less than the more familiar processes of blackening, whitening, or reddening. Yet beyond these canonical colours, yellowness turns out to be ubiquitous in alchemy and its associated craft practices, both in Latin texts and vernacular translations. This paper uses source criticism and experimental reconstruction to interrogate the role of yellowness at the beginning, middle, and end of practice, focusing on fifteenth- and sixteenth-century England. As starting ingredients, yellow vitriol and litharge offered the potential for transmutation but also posed problems for identification and preparation. As an intermediate stage, yellowness offered promising signs of future success, in the form of dramatic colour changes and unexpected products. But yellowness also offered an end in itself, as appears from the many citrination processes attested in recipe collections which aimed to imitate the properties of gold - suggesting that yellowing was prized as a significant indicator of chemical change across diverse areas of craft practice.}, }
@article {pmid38420597, year = {2024}, author = {Vermeesch, AL and Ellsworth-Kopkowski, A and Prather, JG and Passel, C and Rogers, HH and Hansen, MM}, title = {Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing): A Scoping Review of the Global Research on the Effects of Spending Time in Nature.}, journal = {Global advances in integrative medicine and health}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {27536130241231258}, pmid = {38420597}, issn = {2753-6130}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This Scoping review (ScR) builds upon the 2017 review conducted by Hansen et al which contributed to evidence base shinrin-yoku (SY), also known as forest bathing (FB), has many positive health effects and is becoming a prescribed dose (specific time spent in nature) by health care providers. Practice and research regarding SY, has been historically based in Asian countries with a recent increase in Europe. The need and call for more research worldwide continues to further the evidence of SY as a health promotion modality. Through this ScR the authors identified programmatic components, health information monitored and screened, time spent in nature, geographical regions, trends, and themes in SY research worldwide.<br><br>METHODS: Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines we searched across 7 electronic databases for SY or FB research articles from 2017 through 2022. PubMed, CINAHL, PsycInfo, ScienceDirect, SCOPUS, Embase, JSTOR were included due to the interdisciplinary nature of SY or FB research. Each database provided unique strengths ensuring a capture of a wide range of articles. The resulting articles were screened and extracted through Covidence.<br><br>RESULTS: Database searches returned 241 results, with 110 references removed during the deduplication process, 131 were initially screened in the title and abstract review stage. Resulting in 82 unique results deemed relevant and screened in full text. During the final stage of the review, 63 articles met all inclusion criteria and were extracted for data.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The practice of SY has physiological (PHYS) and psychological (PSYCH) benefits across age groups. Research findings indicate either the natural or the virtual environment (VW) has significant health benefits. Continued research is encouraged globally for short- and long-term health outcomes for all individuals. The connection with nature benefits the mind, body and soul and is supported by Henry David Thoreau's philosophy: "Our livesneed the relief of where the pine flourishes and the jay still scream."}, }
@article {pmid38419376, year = {2024}, author = {Burban, E and Tenaillon, MI and Glémin, S}, title = {RIDGE, a tool tailored to detect gene flow barriers across species pairs.}, journal = {Molecular ecology resources}, volume = {24}, number = {4}, pages = {e13944}, doi = {10.1111/1755-0998.13944}, pmid = {38419376}, issn = {1755-0998}, support = {//R&#xe9;gion Bretagne/ ; ANR-17-EUR-0007//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; ANR-19-CE32-0009-02//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; GDR 3765//Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique/ ; }, mesh = {*Gene Flow ; Bayes Theorem ; *Genetic Speciation ; Genomics ; Genome ; }, abstract = {Characterizing the processes underlying reproductive isolation between diverging lineages is central to understanding speciation. Here, we present RIDGE-Reproductive Isolation Detection using Genomic polymorphisms-a tool tailored for quantifying gene flow barrier proportion and identifying the relevant genomic regions. RIDGE relies on an Approximate Bayesian Computation with a model-averaging approach to accommodate diverse scenarios of lineage divergence. It captures heterogeneity in effective migration rate along the genome while accounting for variation in linked selection and recombination. The barrier detection test relies on numerous summary statistics to compute a Bayes factor, offering a robust statistical framework that facilitates cross-species comparisons. Simulations revealed RIDGE's efficiency in capturing signals of ongoing migration. Model averaging proved particularly valuable in scenarios of high model uncertainty where no migration or migration homogeneity can be wrongly assumed, typically for recent divergence times <0.1 2Ne generations. Applying RIDGE to four published crow data sets, we first validated our tool by identifying a well-known large genomic region associated with mate choice patterns. Second, while we identified a significant overlap of outlier loci using RIDGE and traditional genomic scans, our results suggest that a substantial portion of previously identified outliers are likely false positives. Outlier detection relies on allele differentiation, relative measures of divergence and the count of shared polymorphisms and fixed differences. Our analyses also highlight the value of incorporating multiple summary statistics including our newly developed outlier ones that can be useful in challenging detection conditions.}, }
@article {pmid38418500, year = {2024}, author = {Salgotra, R and Gandomi, AH}, title = {A novel multi-hybrid differential evolution algorithm for optimization of frame structures.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {4877}, pmid = {38418500}, issn = {2045-2322}, abstract = {Differential evolution (DE) is a robust optimizer designed for solving complex domain research problems in the computational intelligence community. In the present work, a multi-hybrid DE (MHDE) is proposed for improving the overall working capability of the algorithm without compromising the solution quality. Adaptive parameters, enhanced mutation, enhanced crossover, reducing population, iterative division and Gaussian random sampling are some of the major characteristics of the proposed MHDE algorithm. Firstly, an iterative division for improved exploration and exploitation is used, then an adaptive proportional population size reduction mechanism is followed for reducing the computational complexity. It also incorporated Weibull distribution and Gaussian random sampling to mitigate premature convergence. The proposed framework is validated by using IEEE CEC benchmark suites (CEC 2005, CEC 2014 and CEC 2017). The algorithm is applied to four engineering design problems and for the weight minimization of three frame design problems. Experimental results are analysed and compared with recent hybrid algorithms such as laplacian biogeography based optimization, adaptive differential evolution with archive (JADE), success history based DE, self adaptive DE, LSHADE, MVMO, fractional-order calculus-based flower pollination algorithm, sine cosine crow search algorithm and others. Statistically, the Friedman and Wilcoxon rank sum tests prove that the proposed algorithm fares better than others.}, }
@article {pmid38417339, year = {2024}, author = {Azalou, M and Assani, AS and Kpomasse, CC and Tona, K and Alkoiret, IT and Pitala, W}, title = {Phenotypic and morphometric characterization of domestic geese raised in northern Benin.}, journal = {Poultry science}, volume = {103}, number = {4}, pages = {103563}, pmid = {38417339}, issn = {1525-3171}, mesh = {Male ; Female ; Animals ; Benin ; *Geese/genetics ; *Chickens ; Phenotype ; }, abstract = {Documentation on the domestic geese (Anser anser) in Benin is scarce, making it objectively difficult to exploit. Its production depends on small flocks raised by livestock farmers in different areas. The aim of the study was to describe the phenotypic and morphometric characteristics of geese encountered in northern Benin. To this end, a total of 576 adult geese (353 males and 223 females) from 102 farms in 4 agro-ecological zones of northern Benin were evaluated for 11 quantitative and 5 qualitative body traits. There are 6 plumage colors with white (42.01%), white-brown magpie (24.65%) and white-grey magpie (17.19%) as dominant colors. The proportions of white-grey (75%) and multicolored (51.85%) in Far northern zone of Benin (FNZB) were higher (P < 0.05) than those in the cotton zone of northern Benin (CZNB), Food-producing zone of southern Borgou (FZSB) and West-Atacora Zone (WAZ). The red coloring of the tarsi was more dominant in the FZSB (63.09%) and the FZSB (61.79%) (P < 0.05). Orange (57.47%) and yellow (28.82%) colored beaks were dominant but did not vary (P > 0.05) from one agro-ecological zone to another. Quantitative traits such as body length, tarsus length, wing span and thoracic circumference of geese varied (P < 0.05) between 71.34 to73.22 cm, 10.08 to 10.6 cm, 131.95 to 135.42 cm and between 42.07 to 43.86 cm respectively. Males differed significantly from females (P < 0.05) for all morphometric traits. The live weight of geese in the FNZB showed higher values than those of other agro-ecological zones (P ˂ 0.05). In addition, white phenotype geese (3.76 kg) were heavier (P ˂ 0.05) than other phenotypes. All correlations between weight and body measurements of domestic geese were positive, but the correlations between live weight and wing span (r = 0.68) were the strongest. These correlations could be used to assess the live weight of the geese population studied and for selection based on live weight. This study provides a reference for morpho-biometric traits and will be complemented by molecular characterization.}, }
@article {pmid38408666, year = {2024}, author = {Simpson, AK and Drysdale, M and Gamberg, M and Froese, K and Brammer, J and Dumas, P and Ratelle, M and Skinner, K and Laird, BD}, title = {Human biomonitoring of dioxins, furans, and non-ortho dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in blood plasma from Old Crow, Yukon, Canada (2019).}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {923}, number = {}, pages = {171222}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171222}, pmid = {38408666}, issn = {1879-1026}, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Dioxins/analysis ; *Polychlorinated Biphenyls/analysis ; Yukon Territory ; *Crows ; Furans/toxicity ; Biological Monitoring ; Canada ; Plasma/chemistry ; *Polychlorinated Dibenzodioxins ; }, abstract = {Dioxins, furans, and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a group of persistent and toxic chemicals that are known to have human health effects at low levels. These chemicals have been produced for commercial use (PCBs) or unintentionally as by-products of industry or natural processes (PCBs, dioxins, and furans). Additionally, dioxin-like PCBs were formerly used in electrical applications before being banned internationally (2004). These chemicals are widely dispersed in the environment as they can contaminate air and travel hundreds to thousands of kilometers before depositing on land or water, thereafter, potentially entering food chains. Community concerns surrounding the safety of traditional foods prompted a human biomonitoring project in Old Crow, Yukon Territory (YT), Canada (2019). Through collaborative community engagement, dioxins and like compounds were identified as a priority for exposure assessment from biobanked samples. In 2022, biobanked plasma samples (n = 54) collected in Old Crow were used to measure exposures to seven dioxins, ten furans, and four dioxin-like PCBs. 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDD, 1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDD, 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDD, OCDD, 2,3,4,7,8-PeCDF, 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDF, PCB 126, and PCB 169 were detected in at least 50 % of samples. Among these analytes, the only congener at elevated levels was PCB 169, which was approximately ∼2-fold higher than the general population of Canada. No significant sex-based or body mass index (BMI) differences in biomarker concentrations were observed. Generally, the concentrations of the detected congeners increased with age, except for 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDD. For the first time, this research measures dioxin and like-compound exposures in Old Crow, advancing the information available on chemical exposures in the Arctic. Further research could be directed towards the investigation of PCB 169 exposure sources and temporal monitoring of exposures and determinants.}, }
@article {pmid38401133, year = {2024}, author = {Penhale, SH and Arif, Y and Schantell, M and Johnson, HJ and Willett, MP and Okelberry, HJ and Meehan, CE and Heinrichs-Graham, E and Wilson, TW}, title = {Healthy aging alters the oscillatory dynamics and fronto-parietal connectivity serving fluid intelligence.}, journal = {Human brain mapping}, volume = {45}, number = {3}, pages = {e26591}, pmid = {38401133}, issn = {1097-0193}, support = {F31 DA056296/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; R36-DA059323/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; P20-GM144641/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; P20 GM144641/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DA047828/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DA056223/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; R01-MH116782/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; F31-DA056296/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R01-MH118013/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R01-DA056223/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH118013/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01-DA047828/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH116782/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Aged ; *Healthy Aging ; Brain/diagnostic imaging/physiology ; Magnetoencephalography/methods ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Brain Mapping/methods ; Intelligence/physiology ; }, abstract = {Fluid intelligence (Gf) involves logical reasoning and novel problem-solving abilities. Often, abstract reasoning tasks like Raven's progressive matrices are used to assess Gf. Prior work has shown an age-related decline in fluid intelligence capabilities, and although many studies have sought to identify the underlying mechanisms, our understanding of the critical brain regions and dynamics remains largely incomplete. In this study, we utilized magnetoencephalography (MEG) to investigate 78 individuals, ages 20-65 years, as they completed an abstract reasoning task. MEG data was co-registered with structural MRI data, transformed into the time-frequency domain, and the resulting neural oscillations were imaged using a beamformer. We found worsening behavioral performance with age, including prolonged reaction times and reduced accuracy. MEG analyses indicated robust oscillations in the theta, alpha/beta, and gamma range during the task. Whole brain correlation analyses with age revealed relationships in the theta and alpha/beta frequency bands, such that theta oscillations became stronger with increasing age in a right prefrontal region and alpha/beta oscillations became stronger with increasing age in parietal and right motor cortices. Follow-up connectivity analyses revealed increasing parieto-frontal connectivity with increasing age in the alpha/beta frequency range. Importantly, our findings are consistent with the parieto-frontal integration theory of intelligence (P-FIT). These results further suggest that as people age, there may be alterations in neural responses that are spectrally specific, such that older people exhibit stronger alpha/beta oscillations across the parieto-frontal network during abstract reasoning tasks.}, }
@article {pmid38396520, year = {2024}, author = {Zhang, Z and Bi, J and Zhao, X and Cai, Y and Yang, C}, title = {Comparison of Reproductive Strategies between Two Sympatric Copsychus Passerines.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {14}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {38396520}, issn = {2076-2615}, support = {32260127//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; }, abstract = {Reproduction plays a crucial role in determining the development, fate, and dynamics of bird populations. However, reproductive strategies vary among species and populations. In this study, we investigated the reproductive strategies of the Oriental Magpie Robin (Copsychus saularis) and White-rumped Shama (C. malabarica), which are closely related passerines that reproduce in sympatric areas. We found that although these two species were both cavity nesting, their nest-site selection differed; the Shama preferred nesting close to trees and forests, whereas the Magpie Robin nested close to human residential areas. Furthermore, their egg incubation patterns differed; the Shama increased daily incubation frequency with incubation time, but the Magpie Robin maintained its daily incubation time regardless of changes in incubation frequency. However, the nestling heating patterns of these two species were similar, indicating a critical demand for regulating hatchling body temperature during this crucial stage. The feeding frequencies of male parents were strongly correlated with those of females in both species, suggesting equal contribution and good synchronization between the sexes. Nestling feeding frequency was also correlated with nest cleaning frequency, implying coordination between feeding and defecation by parents and offspring, respectively. This research explored the divergence and convergence of reproductive strategies between these two sympatric species, providing valuable insights into the niche differentiation theory.}, }
@article {pmid38391697, year = {2024}, author = {de Chiusole, D and Spinoso, M and Anselmi, P and Bacherini, A and Balboni, G and Mazzoni, N and Brancaccio, A and Epifania, OM and Orsoni, M and Giovagnoli, S and Garofalo, S and Benassi, M and Robusto, E and Stefanutti, L and Pierluigi, I}, title = {PsycAssist: A Web-Based Artificial Intelligence System Designed for Adaptive Neuropsychological Assessment and Training.}, journal = {Brain sciences}, volume = {14}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {38391697}, issn = {2076-3425}, support = {PRIN: Progetti di Ricerca di Rilevante Interesse Nazionale - Bando 2020, Protocol n. 20209WKCLL, Project title: Computerized, adaptive and personalized assessment of executive functions and fluid intelligence//Italian Ministry of Research and University/ ; }, abstract = {Assessing executive functions in individuals with disorders or clinical conditions can be challenging, as they may lack the abilities needed for conventional test formats. The use of more personalized test versions, such as adaptive assessments, might be helpful in evaluating individuals with specific needs. This paper introduces PsycAssist, a web-based artificial intelligence system designed for neuropsychological adaptive assessment and training. PsycAssist is a highly flexible and scalable system based on procedural knowledge space theory and may be used potentially with many types of tests. We present the architecture and adaptive assessment engine of PsycAssist and the two currently available tests: Adap-ToL, an adaptive version of the Tower of London-like test to assess planning skills, and MatriKS, a Raven-like test to evaluate fluid intelligence. Finally, we describe the results of an investigation of the usability of Adap-ToL and MatriKS: the evaluators perceived these tools as appropriate and well-suited for their intended purposes, and the test-takers perceived the assessment as a positive experience. To sum up, PsycAssist represents an innovative and promising tool to tailor evaluation and training to the specific characteristics of the individual, useful for clinical practice.}, }
@article {pmid38389412, year = {2024}, author = {Lehner, AF and Johnson, SD and Dirikolu, L and Johnson, M and Buchweitz, JP}, title = {Mass spectrometric methods for evaluation of voriconazole avian pharmacokinetics and the inhibition of its cytochrome P450-induced metabolism.}, journal = {Toxicology mechanisms and methods}, volume = {34}, number = {6}, pages = {654-668}, doi = {10.1080/15376516.2024.2322675}, pmid = {38389412}, issn = {1537-6524}, mesh = {*Voriconazole/pharmacokinetics ; Animals ; *Antifungal Agents/pharmacokinetics ; *Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme Inhibitors/pharmacology ; *Tandem Mass Spectrometry ; Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System/metabolism ; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry ; Male ; Chromatography, Liquid ; }, abstract = {Invasive fungal aspergillosis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in many species including avian species such as common ravens (Corvus corax). Methods were developed for mass spectral determination of voriconazole in raven plasma as a means of determining pharmacokinetics of this antifungal agent. Without further development, GC/MS/MS (gas chromatography-tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry) proved to be inferior to LC/MS/MS (liquid chromatography-tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry) for measurement of voriconazole levels in treated raven plasma owing to numerous heat-induced breakdown products despite protection of voriconazole functional groups with trimethylsilyl moieties. LC/MS/MS measurement revealed in multi-dosing experiments that the ravens were capable of rapid or ultrarapid metabolism of voriconazole. This accounted for the animals' inability to raise the drug into the therapeutic range regardless of dosing regimen unless cytochrome P450 (CYP) inhibitors were included. Strategic selection of CYP inhibitors showed that of four selected compounds including cimetidine, enrofloxacin and omeprazole, only ciprofloxacin (Cipro) was able to maintain voriconazole levels in the therapeutic range until the end of the dosing period. The optimal method of administration involved maintenance doses of voriconazole at 6 mg/kg and ciprofloxacin at 20 mg/kg. Higher doses of voriconazole such as 18 mg/kg were also tenable without apparent induction of toxicity. Although most species employ CYP2C19 to metabolize voriconazole, it was necessary to speculate that voriconazole might be subject to metabolism by CYP1A2 in the ravens to explain the utility of ciprofloxacin, a previously unknown enzymatic route. Finally, despite its widespread catalog of CYP inhibitions including CYP1A2 and CYP2C19, cimetidine may be inadequate at enhancing voriconazole levels owing to its known effects on raising gastric pH, a result that may limit voriconazole solubility.}, }
@article {pmid38381738, year = {2024}, author = {Mustafa, FE and Ahmed, I and Basit, A and Alqahtani, M and Khalid, M}, title = {An adaptive metaheuristic optimization approach for Tennessee Eastman process for an industrial fault tolerant control system.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {19}, number = {2}, pages = {e0296471}, pmid = {38381738}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Reproducibility of Results ; Tennessee ; *Algorithms ; *Environment ; }, abstract = {The Tennessee Eastman Process (TEP) is widely recognized as a standard reference for assessing the effectiveness of fault detection and false alarm tracking methods in intricate industrial operations. This paper presents a novel methodology that employs the Adaptive Crow Search Algorithm (ACSA) to improve fault identification capabilities and mitigate the occurrence of false alarms in the TEP. The ACSA is an optimization approach that draws inspiration from the observed behavior of crows in their natural environment. This algorithm possesses the capability to adapt its search behavior in response to the changing dynamics of the optimization process. The primary objective of our research is to devise a monitoring strategy that is adaptable in nature, with the aim of efficiently identifying faults within the TEP while simultaneously minimizing the occurrence of false alarms. The ACSA is applied in order to enhance the optimization of monitoring variables, alarm thresholds, and decision criteria selection and configuration. When compared to traditional static approaches, the ACSA-based monitoring strategy is better at finding faults and reducing false alarms because it adapts well to changes in process dynamics and disturbances. In order to assess the efficacy of our suggested methodology, we have conducted comprehensive simulations on the TEP dataset. The findings suggest that the monitoring strategy based on ACSA demonstrates superior fault identification rates while concurrently mitigating the frequency of false alarms. In addition, the flexibility of ACSA allows it to efficiently manage process variations, disturbances, and uncertainties, thereby enhancing its robustness and reliability in practical scenarios. To validate the effectiveness of our proposed approach, extensive simulations were conducted on the TEP dataset. The results indicate that the ACSA-based monitoring strategy achieves higher fault detection rates while simultaneously reducing the occurrence of false alarms. Moreover, the adaptability of ACSA enables it to effectively handle process variations, disturbances, and uncertainties, making it robust and reliable for real-world applications. The contributions of this research extend beyond the TEP, as the adaptive monitoring strategy utilizing ACSA can be applied to other complex industrial processes. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the development of advanced fault detection and false alarm monitoring techniques, offering significant benefits in terms of process safety, reliability, and operational efficiency.}, }
@article {pmid38378710, year = {2024}, author = {Khadem, A and Nadery, M and Noori, S and Ghaffarian-Ensaf, R and Djazayery, A and Movahedi, A}, title = {The relationship between food habits and physical activity and the IQ of primary school children.}, journal = {Journal of health, population, and nutrition}, volume = {43}, number = {1}, pages = {29}, pmid = {38378710}, issn = {2072-1315}, mesh = {Child ; Humans ; Male ; Female ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Intelligence Tests ; *Feeding Behavior ; *Exercise ; Schools ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Children's intelligence quotient (IQ) is influenced by various environmental and genetic variables. The current study aimed to determine how children's dietary choices and physical activity levels correlated with their IQ.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 190 students (111 girls and 79 boys) between the ages of 8 and 10 were chosen randomly for this cross-sectional research. For all children, questionnaires were utilized to gather information on their anthropometry, socio-economic position, food habits, and 24-h memory. Children's physical activity questionnaire (CPAQ) was also used to gauge their level of physical activity. Raven's color progressive intelligence test was also used to gauge children's IQ. All the questions may be filled out online with the assistance of parents. SPSS software was used to gather and evaluate the generated data.<br><br>RESULTS: Of 190 respondents, 79 (41.6%) are males, and 111 (58.4%) are girls. The results of the study showed that, a positive correlation between children's IQ and physical activity (P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.017, r&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.17), if this relationship was not seen by gender. In addition, a positive correlation was observed between the IQ and food habits scores in all children (P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.001, r&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.24), as well as by gender, that is, male (P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.04, r&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.23) and female (P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.006, r&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.26), which indicates that children with better food habits were associated with higher IQ.<br><br>CONCLUSION: It was shown that elementary school children's IQ, food habits, and degree of physical activity are all positively correlated.}, }
@article {pmid38378155, year = {2024}, author = {Betz, A and Bischoff, R and Petschenka, G}, title = {Late-instar monarch caterpillars sabotage milkweed to acquire toxins, not to disarm plant defence.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {291}, number = {2017}, pages = {20232721}, pmid = {38378155}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Larva ; Latex ; *Butterflies ; *Asclepias ; Cardenolides/toxicity ; }, abstract = {Sabotaging milkweed by monarch caterpillars (Danaus plexippus) is a famous textbook example of disarming plant defence. By severing leaf veins, monarchs are thought to prevent the flow of toxic latex to their feeding site. Here, we show that sabotaging by monarch caterpillars is not only an avoidance strategy. While young caterpillars appear to avoid latex, late-instar caterpillars actively ingest exuding latex, presumably to increase sequestration of cardenolides used for defence against predators. Comparisons with caterpillars of the related but non-sequestering common crow butterfly (Euploea core) revealed three lines of evidence supporting our hypothesis. First, monarch caterpillars sabotage inconsistently and therefore the behaviour is not obligatory to feed on milkweed, whereas sabotaging precedes each feeding event in Euploea caterpillars. Second, monarch caterpillars shift their behaviour from latex avoidance in younger to eager drinking in later stages, whereas Euploea caterpillars consistently avoid latex and spit it out during sabotaging. Third, monarchs reared on detached leaves without latex sequestered more cardenolides when caterpillars imbibed latex offered with a pipette. Thus, we conclude that monarch caterpillars have transformed the ancestral 'sabotage to avoid' strategy into a 'sabotage to consume' strategy, implying a novel behavioural adaptation to increase sequestration of cardenolides for defence.}, }
@article {pmid38375775, year = {2024}, author = {Jariwala, N and Ozols, M and Eckersley, A and Mambwe, B and Watson, REB and Zeef, L and Gilmore, A and Debelle, L and Bell, M and Bradley, EJ and Doush, Y and Keenan, A and Courage, C and Leroux, R and Peschard, O and Mondon, P and Ringenbach, C and Bernard, L and Pitois, A and Sherratt, MJ}, title = {Prediction, screening and characterization of novel bioactive tetrapeptide matrikines for skin rejuvenation.}, journal = {The British journal of dermatology}, volume = {191}, number = {1}, pages = {92-106}, doi = {10.1093/bjd/ljae061}, pmid = {38375775}, issn = {1365-2133}, support = {//Walgreens Boots Alliance/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Fibroblasts/metabolism/drug effects ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; *Rejuvenation ; *Oligopeptides/pharmacology ; Skin/drug effects/pathology/metabolism ; Cells, Cultured ; Female ; Middle Aged ; Cell Proliferation/drug effects ; Extracellular Matrix/metabolism ; Male ; Extracellular Matrix Proteins/metabolism ; Adult ; Aged ; Proteomics/methods ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Extracellular matrices play a critical role in tissue structure and function and aberrant remodelling of these matrices is a hallmark of many age-related diseases. In skin, loss of dermal collagens and disorganization of elastic fibre components are key features of photoageing. Although the application of some small matrix-derived peptides to aged skin has been shown to beneficially affect in vitro cell behaviour and, in vivo, molecular architecture and clinical appearance, the discovery of new peptides has lacked a guiding hypothesis.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To identify, using protease cleavage site prediction, novel putative matrikines with beneficial activities for skin composition and structure.<br><br>METHODS: Here, we present an in silico (peptide cleavage prediction) to in vitro (proteomic and transcriptomic activity testing in cultured human dermal fibroblasts) to in vivo (short-term patch test and longer-term split-face clinical study) discovery pipeline, which enables the identification and characterization of peptides with differential activities.<br><br>RESULTS: Using this pipeline we showed that cultured fibroblasts were responsive to all applied peptides, but their associated bioactivity was sequence-dependent. Based on bioactivity, toxicity and protein source, we further characterized a combination of two novel peptides, GPKG (glycine-proline-lysine-glycine) and LSVD (leucine-serine-valine-aspartate), that acted in vitro to enhance the transcription of matrix -organization and cell proliferation genes and in vivo (in a short-term patch test) to promote processes associated with epithelial and dermal maintenance and remodelling. Prolonged use of a formulation containing these peptides in a split-face clinical study led to significantly improved measures of crow's feet and firmness in a mixed population.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This approach to peptide discovery and testing can identify new synthetic matrikines, providing insights into biological mechanisms of tissue homeostasis and repair and new pathways to clinical intervention.}, }
@article {pmid38368968, year = {2024}, author = {Le Covec, M and Bovet, D and Watanabe, S and Izawa, EI and Bobin-Bègue, A}, title = {Spontaneous tempo production in cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) and jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {217}, number = {}, pages = {105007}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2024.105007}, pmid = {38368968}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows/physiology ; *Cockatoos/physiology ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Beak/physiology ; Male ; Female ; }, abstract = {Musical and rhythmical abilities are poorly documented in non-human animals. Most of the existing studies focused on synchronisation performances to external rhythms. In humans, studies demonstrated that rhythmical processing (e. g. rhythm discrimination or synchronisation to external rhythm) is dependent of an individual measure: the individual tempo. It is assessed by asking participants to produce an endogenous isochronous rhythm (known as spontaneous motor tempo) without any specific instructions nor temporal cue. In non-human animal literature, studies describing spontaneous and endogenous production of motor tempo without any temporal clue are rare. This exploratory study aims to describe and compare the spontaneous motor tempo of cockatiels and jungle crows. Data were collected on spontaneous beak drumming behaviours of birds housed in laboratory. Inter beak strokes intervals were calculated from sound tracks of videos. The analyses revealed that inter beak strokes intervals are non-randomly distributed intervals and are isochronous. Recorded spontaneous motor tempos are significantly different among some cockatiels. Since we could only conduct statistical analysis with one corvid, we cannot conclude about this species. Our results suggest that cockatiels and jungle crows have individual tempos, thus encouraging further investigations.}, }
@article {pmid38364572, year = {2024}, author = {Brennan Kearns, P and van den Dries, MA and Julvez, J and Kampouri, M and López-Vicente, M and Maitre, L and Philippat, C and Småstuen Haug, L and Vafeiadi, M and Thomsen, C and Yang, TC and Vrijheid, M and Tiemeier, H and Guxens, M}, title = {Association of exposure to mixture of chemicals during pregnancy with cognitive abilities and fine motor function of children.}, journal = {Environment international}, volume = {185}, number = {}, pages = {108490}, doi = {10.1016/j.envint.2024.108490}, pmid = {38364572}, issn = {1873-6750}, support = {CS/16/4/32482/BHF_/British Heart Foundation/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Pregnancy ; Adult ; Child ; Maternal Exposure/adverse effects ; Cognition ; *Hydrocarbons, Chlorinated ; *Fluorocarbons ; *Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects ; *Environmental Pollutants/toxicity ; *Phthalic Acids ; }, abstract = {Chemical exposures often occur in mixtures and exposures during pregnancy may lead to adverse effects on the fetal brain, potentially reducing lower cognitive abilities and fine motor function of the child. We investigated the association of motheŕs exposure to a mixture of chemicals during pregnancy (i.e., organochlorine compounds, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, phenols, phthalates, organophosphate pesticides) with cognitive abilties and fine motor function in their children. We studied 1097 mother-child pairs from five European cohorts participating in the Human Early Life Exposome study (HELIX). Measurement of 26 biomarkers of exposure to chemicals was performed on urine or blood samples of pregnant women (mean age 31 years). Cognitive abilities and fine motor function were assessed in their children (mean age 8 years) with a battery of computerized tests administered in person (Raveńs Coloured Progressive Matrices, Attention Network Test, N-back Test, Trail Making Test, Finger Tapping Test). We estimated the joint effect of prenatal exposure to chemicals on cognitive abilities and fine motor function using the quantile-based g-computation method, adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics. A quartile increase in all the chemicals in the overall mixture was associated with worse fine motor function, specifically lower scores in the Finger Tapping Test [-8.5 points, 95 % confidence interval (CI) -13.6 to -3.4; -14.5 points, 95 % CI -22.4 to -6.6, and -18.0 points, 95 % CI -28.6 to -7.4) for the second, third and fourth quartile of the overal mixture, respectively, when compared to the first quartile]. Organochlorine compounds, phthalates, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances contributed most to this association. We did not find a relationship with cognitive abilities. We conclude that exposure to chemical mixtures during pregnancy may influence neurodevelopment, impacting fine motor function of the offspring.}, }
@article {pmid38363314, year = {2024}, author = {Zahid, N and Enam, SA and Mårtensson, T and Azam, I and Mushtaq, N and Moochhala, M and Javed, F and Kausar, F and Hasan, A and Rehman, L and Mughal, MN and Altaf, S and Kirmani, S and Brown, N}, title = {Predictors of neurocognition outcomes in children and young people with primary brain tumor presenting to tertiary care hospitals of Karachi, Pakistan: a prospective cohort study.}, journal = {Child's nervous system : ChNS : official journal of the International Society for Pediatric Neurosurgery}, volume = {40}, number = {6}, pages = {1707-1719}, pmid = {38363314}, issn = {1433-0350}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Young Adult ; *Brain Neoplasms/psychology/complications ; Cohort Studies ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Pakistan/epidemiology ; Prospective Studies ; *Tertiary Care Centers ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Primary brain tumors are a common cause of morbidity and mortality in children and young people (CYP) globally. Impaired neurocognitive function is a potential severe consequence in primary brain tumor (PBT) survivors. There are no in-depth studies from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) to inform management and follow-up. The research questions of this study were as follows: Are the sociodemographic factors (lower age of CYP, female gender, low socioeconomic status, low parental education), disease-related factors (high grade of tumor, presence of seizures, presence of hydrocephalous), and treatment-related factors (adjuvant therapy, no surgical intervention, post-treatment seizures, placement of shunts) associated with decline in neurcognition outcomes 12 months post-treatment in CYP with PBTs?<br><br>METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted from November 2020 to July 2023 at the Aga Khan University Hospital and Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, tertiary care hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan. All CYP aged 5 to 21&#xa0;years with a newly diagnosed PBTs were eligible. The neurocognition assessment was undertaken by a psychologist at two points, i.e., pre-treatment and at 12&#xa0;months post-treatment using validated tools. The verbal intelligence was assessed by Slosson Intelligence tool, revised 3rd edition (SIT-R3), perceptual reasoning by Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM), and the Processing Speed Index by Wechsler Intelligence Scale (WISC V) and Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS-IV). The data were analyzed by STATA version 12 software. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) was used to determine the factors associated with the mean change in 12&#xa0;months post-treatment verbal and non-verbal neurocognition scores. Unadjusted and adjusted beta coefficients with their 95% confidence intervals were reported.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 48 CYPs with PBTs were enrolled, 23 (48%) of them were lost to follow-up and 10 (21%) died. The remaining 25 (52%) were reassessed 12&#xa0;months after treatment. On multivariable analysis, a significant decline in verbal intelligence scores at 12&#xa0;months was predicted by post-treatment seizures beta&#x2009;=&#x2009;&#x2009;-&#x2009;20.8 (95% CI,&#x2009;-&#x2009;38.2,&#x2009;-&#x2009;3.4), mothers having no formal educational status and lower household monthly income. Similarly, a significant&#xa0;decline in perceptual reasoning scores was also&#xa0;predicted by post-treatment seizures beta&#x2009;=&#x2009;&#x2009;-&#x2009;10.7 (95% CI,&#x2009;-&#x2009;20.6,&#x2009;-&#x2009;0.8), mothers having no formal education and having lower household monthly income. Worsening of processing speed scores at 12&#xa0;months post-treatment were predicted by tumor histology, post-treatment seizures beta&#x2009;=&#x2009;&#x2009;-&#x2009;33.9 (95% CI,&#x2009;-&#x2009;47.7,&#x2009;-&#x2009;20.0), lower educational status of the mother, and having lower household monthly. However, an improvement was seen in processing speed scores after surgical tumor resection.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In this novel study, the post-treatment mean change in verbal and non-verbal neurocognition scores was associated with sociodemographic, tumor, and treatment factors. These findings may have potential implications for targeted early psychological screening of higher risk CYP with PBTs. Identification of these predictors may serve as a foundation for developing more cost-effective treatment thereby alleviating the burden of neurocognitive morbidity. However to establish generalizability, future research should prioritize larger-scale, multicountry studies. (Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05709522).}, }
@article {pmid38362616, year = {2024}, author = {Itahara, A and Kano, F}, title = {Gaze tracking of large-billed crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) in a motion capture system.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {227}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {38362616}, issn = {1477-9145}, support = {//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; //Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; //The Leading Graduate Program in Primatology and Wildlife Science/ ; //Academist/ ; 19H01772, 23KJ1303 and 20H05000//Japan Society for Promotion of Science/ ; //Leading Graduate Program in Primatology and Wildlife Science/ ; 422037984//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft Cluster of Excellence/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Eye-Tracking Technology ; Motion Capture ; Vision, Ocular ; Visual Fields ; }, abstract = {Previous studies often inferred the focus of a bird's attention from its head movements because it provides important clues about their perception and cognition. However, it remains challenging to do so accurately, as the details of how they orient their visual field toward the visual targets remain largely unclear. We thus examined visual field configurations and the visual field use of large-billed crows (Corvus macrorhynchos Wagler 1827). We used an established ophthalmoscopic reflex technique to identify the visual field configuration, including the binocular width and optical axes, as well as the degree of eye movement. A newly established motion capture system was then used to track the head movements of freely moving crows to examine how they oriented their reconstructed visual fields toward attention-getting objects. When visual targets were moving, the crows frequently used their binocular visual fields, particularly around the projection of the beak-tip. When the visual targets stopped moving, crows frequently used non-binocular visual fields, particularly around the regions where their optical axes were found. On such occasions, the crows slightly preferred the right eye. Overall, the visual field use of crows is clearly predictable. Thus, while the untracked eye movements could introduce some level of uncertainty (typically within 15 deg), we demonstrated the feasibility of inferring a crow's attentional focus by 3D tracking of their heads. Our system represents a promising initial step towards establishing gaze tracking methods for studying corvid behavior and cognition.}, }
@article {pmid38362046, year = {2023}, author = {Myers, T and Bouslimani, A and Huang, S and Hansen, ST and Clavaud, C and Azouaoui, A and Ott, A and Gueniche, A and Bouez, C and Zheng, Q and Aguilar, L and Knight, R and Moreau, M and Song, SJ}, title = {A multi-study analysis enables identification of potential microbial features associated with skin aging signs.}, journal = {Frontiers in aging}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {1304705}, pmid = {38362046}, issn = {2673-6217}, abstract = {Introduction: During adulthood, the skin microbiota can be relatively stable if environmental conditions are also stable, yet physiological changes of the skin with age may affect the skin microbiome and its function. The microbiome is an important factor to consider in aging since it constitutes most of the genes that are expressed on the human body. However, severity of specific aging signs (one of the parameters used to measure "apparent" age) and skin surface quality (e.g., texture, hydration, pH, sebum, etc.) may not be indicative of chronological age. For example, older individuals can have young looking skin (young apparent age) and young individuals can be of older apparent age. Methods: Here we aim to identify microbial taxa of interest associated to skin quality/aging signs using a multi-study analysis of 13 microbiome datasets consisting of 16S rRNA amplicon sequence data and paired skin clinical data from the face. Results: We show that there is a negative relationship between microbiome diversity and transepidermal water loss, and a positive association between microbiome diversity and age. Aligned with a tight link between age and wrinkles, we report a global positive association between microbiome diversity and Crow's feet wrinkles, but with this relationship varying significantly by sub-study. Finally, we identify taxa potentially associated with wrinkles, TEWL and corneometer measures. Discussion: These findings represent a key step towards understanding the implication of the skin microbiota in skin aging signs.}, }
@article {pmid38360908, year = {2024}, author = {Inzalaco, HN and Brandell, EE and Wilson, SP and Hunsaker, M and Stahler, DR and Woelfel, K and Walsh, DP and Nordeen, T and Storm, DJ and Lichtenberg, SS and Turner, WC}, title = {Detection of prions from spiked and free-ranging carnivore feces.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {3804}, pmid = {38360908}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {37000-0000009433//Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Prions ; *Neurodegenerative Diseases ; Feces ; *Wasting Disease, Chronic/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Deer ; *Coyotes ; }, abstract = {Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a highly contagious, fatal neurodegenerative disease caused by infectious prions (PrP[CWD]) affecting wild and captive cervids. Although experimental feeding studies have demonstrated prions in feces of crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos), coyotes (Canis latrans), and cougars (Puma concolor), the role of scavengers and predators in CWD epidemiology remains poorly understood. Here we applied the real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC) assay to detect PrP[CWD] in feces from cervid consumers, to advance surveillance approaches, which could be used to improve disease research and adaptive management of CWD. We assessed recovery and detection of PrP[CWD] by experimental spiking of PrP[CWD] into carnivore feces from 9 species sourced from CWD-free populations or captive facilities. We then applied this technique to detect PrP[CWD] from feces of predators and scavengers in free-ranging populations. Our results demonstrate that spiked PrP[CWD] is detectable from feces of free-ranging mammalian and avian carnivores using RT-QuIC. Results show that PrP[CWD] acquired in natural settings is detectable in feces from free-ranging carnivores, and that PrP[CWD] rates of detection in carnivore feces reflect relative prevalence estimates observed in the corresponding cervid populations. This study adapts an important diagnostic tool for CWD, allowing investigation of the epidemiology of CWD at the community-level.}, }
@article {pmid38359753, year = {2024}, author = {Owings, CG and McKee-Zech, HS and Orebaugh, JA and Devlin, JL and Vidoli, GM}, title = {The utility of blow fly (Diptera: Calliphoridae) evidence from burned human remains.}, journal = {Forensic science international}, volume = {356}, number = {}, pages = {111962}, doi = {10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.111962}, pmid = {38359753}, issn = {1872-6283}, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Diptera ; Calliphoridae ; Body Remains ; Insecta ; Entomology ; *Burns ; Larva ; }, abstract = {Burning of human remains is a common method to conceal or destroy evidence associated with homicides and illegal activities. However, data regarding blow fly colonization of burned remains are scarce, with all previously published empirical studies focusing only on non-human animals. It is critically important to obtain basic data on blow fly colonization patterns of burned human remains as such evidence may represent the only feasible method for PMI estimation in cases of burning. In this study, we thermally altered six human donors to a Crow-Glassman Scale Level 3 (CGS-3) and placed them at the Anthropology Research Facility at the University of Tennessee in Summer 2021, Spring 2022, and Summer 2022. Six unburned human donors were used as controls. Observations for insect activity began within 24 h of placement and continued twice weekly through decomposition. Age estimations were performed with immature blow flies to estimate the time of colonization (TOC), and accuracy was assessed against the time of placement for each donor. All burned donors examined in this study were colonized by blow flies. No significant difference in species composition was determined between treatments, though TOC estimations from burned donors were slightly (but significantly) less accurate than TOC estimations from unburned donors (80% vs. 83% accuracy; χ[2] = 0.041, df = 1, P = 0.840). These results indicate that blow flies can successfully colonize human remains burned to CGS-3 and that accurate TOC estimations can still be generated from larval specimens. Though several limitations to this study exist (e.g., inconsistent donor BMI, lack of donor temperature data), our results underscore the utility of entomological evidence in cases of burned human remains.}, }
@article {pmid38358989, year = {2024}, author = {Mafizur, RM and Sangjin, L and Chul, PY}, title = {Prevalence of Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli in the feces of free-roaming wildlife throughout South Korea.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {19}, number = {2}, pages = {e0281006}, pmid = {38358989}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Swine ; Animals ; Humans ; Mice ; Animals, Wild/microbiology ; Prevalence ; Phylogeny ; *Shiga-Toxigenic Escherichia coli/genetics ; *Deer/microbiology ; *Escherichia coli Infections/epidemiology/veterinary/microbiology ; Sus scrofa ; Salmonella/genetics ; Feces/microbiology ; }, abstract = {Wildlife can carry pathogenic organisms, including viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi, which can spread to humans and cause mild to serious illnesses and even death. Spreading through animal feces, these pathogens significantly contributes to the global burden of human diseases. Therefore, the present study investigated the prevalence of zoonotic bacterial pathogens, such as Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), in animal feces. Between September 2015 and August 2017, 699 wildlife fecal samples were collected from various agricultural production regions and mountainous areas in South Korea. Fecal samples were collected from wild mammals (85.26%, 596/699) and birds (14.73%, 103/699). Salmonella spp. and E. coli were present in 3% (21/699) and 45.63% (319/699) of the samples, respectively. Moreover, virulence genes stx1 and both stx1 and stx2 were detected in 13.30% (93/699) and 0.72% (5/699) of the samples, respectively. The 21 Salmonella spp. were detected in badgers (n = 5), leopard cats (n = 7), wild boars (n = 2), and magpies (n = 7); STEC was detected in roe deer, water deer, mice, and wild boars. Through phylogenetic and gene-network analyses, the Salmonella spp. isolates (n = 21 laboratory isolates, at least one isolate from each Salmonella-positive animal fecal sample, and n = 6 widely prevalent reference Salmonella serovars) were grouped into two major lineages: S. enterica subsp. enterica and S. enterica subsp. diarizonae. Similarly, 93 E. coli isolates belonged to stx1, including three major lineages (groups 1-3), and stx1 and stx2 detected groups. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a wild leopard cat serving as a reservoir for Salmonella spp. in South Korea. The research findings can help manage the potential risk of wildlife contamination and improve precautionary measures to protect public health.}, }
@article {pmid38350545, year = {2024}, author = {Tariq, A and Ahmad, SR and Qadir, A}, title = {Nesting material adaptation of native bird species with anthropogenic litter along an urbanization gradient in Pakistan.}, journal = {Environmental research}, volume = {249}, number = {}, pages = {118435}, doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2024.118435}, pmid = {38350545}, issn = {1096-0953}, mesh = {Animals ; Pakistan ; *Urbanization ; *Nesting Behavior ; Birds/physiology ; Anthropogenic Effects ; Environmental Monitoring ; Waste Products/analysis ; }, abstract = {Rapid urbanization and associated waste generation have become a mounting ecological concern for wildlife, especially avian communities. Research has primarily focused on investigating the impacts of human activities on marine birds with comparatively less focus on terrestrial species that live in far more anthropized environments and are at significant risk. Our study has explored the abundance and characteristics of anthropogenic litter in 70 nests of four generalist bird species: Bank Myna (Acridotheres ginginianus), Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis), Black Kite (Milvus migrans) and House Crow (Corvus splendens), within the city of Lahore (Pakistan) and its surroundings, by determining and following an urbanization gradient. The overall frequency of litter occurrence (FLO%) for all the sampled nests was 89%. Over 80% of the recorded litter items consisted of plastic materials, primarily dominated by sheet-like plastics. There was a strong association between fabric and Black Kite nests, and metal and House Crow nests. Litter incorporation increased across the gradient from rural to urban habitats. The highest FLO% was found in nests sampled from waste dumping sites and urban sites (95%-100%), where anthropogenic influence was more intense. The high level of litter incorporation is potentially indicative of a species' adaptive response to urbanization, associated with the decline in natural nesting material and availability of anthropogenic litter. These findings highlight the need for strengthening the existing global database for terrestrial litter and its effect on wildlife and devising policy actions for better waste management and conservation of natural ecosystem balance.}, }
@article {pmid38346081, year = {2024}, author = {Guo, Z and Duan, D and Tang, W and Zhu, J and Bush, WS and Zhang, L and Zhu, X and Jin, F and Feng, H}, title = {magpie: A power evaluation method for differential RNA methylation analysis in N6-methyladenosine sequencing.}, journal = {PLoS computational biology}, volume = {20}, number = {2}, pages = {e1011875}, pmid = {38346081}, issn = {1553-7358}, support = {R01 DK131437/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HG012384/HG/NHGRI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 CA267872/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; P30 CA043703/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; UG3 NS132061/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HG009658/HG/NHGRI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*RNA/genetics/metabolism ; *RNA Methylation ; Methylation ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; }, abstract = {Recently, novel biotechnologies to quantify RNA modifications became an increasingly popular choice for researchers who study epitranscriptome. When studying RNA methylations such as N6-methyladenosine (m6A), researchers need to make several decisions in its experimental design, especially the sample size and a proper statistical power. Due to the complexity and high-throughput nature of m6A sequencing measurements, methods for power calculation and study design are still currently unavailable. In this work, we propose a statistical power assessment tool, magpie, for power calculation and experimental design for epitranscriptome studies using m6A sequencing data. Our simulation-based power assessment tool will borrow information from real pilot data, and inspect various influential factors including sample size, sequencing depth, effect size, and basal expression ranges. We integrate two modules in magpie: (i) a flexible and realistic simulator module to synthesize m6A sequencing data based on real data; and (ii) a power assessment module to examine a set of comprehensive evaluation metrics.}, }
@article {pmid38343459, year = {2024}, author = {Fine, L}, title = {We are our history: Baylor University Medical Center and Black physicians in Dallas.}, journal = {Proceedings (Baylor University. Medical Center)}, volume = {37}, number = {2}, pages = {185-195}, pmid = {38343459}, issn = {0899-8280}, abstract = {The Texas Baptist Memorial Sanatorium, the hospital that later became known as Baylor University Medical Center, dates back to 1904. With this long-lived history comes the truths that affected all hospitals during the Jim Crow era: segregation and inequality. This paper attempts to place Baylor University Medical Center, which aimed (and continues to aim) to be a "great humanitarian hospital," in its historical context. Understanding this history may help explain and combat the inequities we continue to see in health care today.}, }
@article {pmid38335247, year = {2024}, author = {Sun, C and Hassin, Y and Boonman, A and Shwartz, A and Yovel, Y}, title = {Species and habitat specific changes in bird activity in an urban environment during Covid 19 lockdown.}, journal = {eLife}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {38335247}, issn = {2050-084X}, support = {3-17988//Israeli Ministry of Science/ ; 201906620060//China Scholarship Council/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Ecosystem ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Communicable Disease Control ; Birds ; Introduced Species ; }, abstract = {Covid-19 lockdowns provided ecologists with a rare opportunity to examine how animals behave when humans are absent. Indeed many studies reported various effects of lockdowns on animal activity, especially in urban areas and other human-dominated habitats. We explored how Covid-19 lockdowns in Israel have influenced bird activity in an urban environment by using continuous acoustic recordings to monitor three common bird species that differ in their level of adaptation to the urban ecosystem: (1) the hooded crow, an urban exploiter, which depends heavily on anthropogenic resources; (2) the rose-ringed parakeet, an invasive alien species that has adapted to exploit human resources; and (3) the graceful prinia, an urban adapter, which is relatively shy of humans and can be found in urban habitats with shrubs and prairies. Acoustic recordings provided continuous monitoring of bird activity without an effect of the observer on the animal. We performed dense sampling of a 1.3 square km area in northern Tel-Aviv by placing 17 recorders for more than a month in different micro-habitats within this region including roads, residential areas and urban parks. We monitored both lockdown and no-lockdown periods. We portray a complex dynamic system where the activity of specific bird species depended on many environmental parameters and decreases or increases in a habitat-dependent manner during lockdown. Specifically, urban exploiter species decreased their activity in most urban habitats during lockdown, while human adapter species increased their activity during lockdown especially in parks where humans were absent. Our results also demonstrate the value of different habitats within urban environments for animal activity, specifically highlighting the importance of urban parks. These species- and habitat-specific changes in activity might explain the contradicting results reported by others who have not performed a habitat specific analysis.}, }
@article {pmid38335048, year = {2024}, author = {Mazengenya, P and Lesku, JA and Rattenborg, NC and Manger, PR}, title = {Apparent absence of hypothalamic cholinergic neurons in the common ostrich and emu: Implications for global brain states during sleep.}, journal = {The Journal of comparative neurology}, volume = {532}, number = {2}, pages = {e25587}, doi = {10.1002/cne.25587}, pmid = {38335048}, issn = {1096-9861}, support = {2022-IRG-MED-3//Ajman University Research Grant/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Dromaiidae/metabolism ; *Struthioniformes/metabolism ; Brain/metabolism ; Hypothalamus/metabolism ; Cholinergic Neurons/metabolism ; Sleep/physiology ; Cholinergic Agents ; Choline O-Acetyltransferase/metabolism ; }, abstract = {We examined the presence/absence and parcellation of cholinergic neurons in the hypothalami of five birds: a Congo grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus), a Timneh grey parrot (P. timneh), a pied crow (Corvus albus), a common ostrich (Struthio camelus), and an emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae). Using immunohistochemistry to an antibody raised against the enzyme choline acetyltransferase, hypothalamic cholinergic neurons were observed in six distinct clusters in the medial, lateral, and ventral hypothalamus in the parrots and crow, similar to prior observations made in the pigeon. The expression of cholinergic nuclei was most prominent in the Congo grey parrot, both in the medial and lateral hypothalamus. In contrast, no evidence of cholinergic neurons in the hypothalami of either the ostrich or emu was found. It is known that the expression of sleep states in the ostrich is unusual and resembles that observed in the monotremes that also lack hypothalamic cholinergic neurons. It has been proposed that the cholinergic system acts globally to produce and maintain brain states, such as those of arousal and rapid-eye-movement sleep. The hiatus in the cholinergic system of the ostrich, due to the lack of hypothalamic cholinergic neurons, may explain, in part, the unusual expression of sleep states in this species. These comparative anatomical and sleep studies provide supportive evidence for global cholinergic actions and may provide an important framework for our understanding of one broad function of the cholinergic system and possible dysfunctions associated with global cholinergic neural activity.}, }
@article {pmid38327363, year = {2023}, author = {Chaprazov, T and Petrov, R and Yarkov, D and Andonova, Y and Lazarova, I}, title = {Basic blood biochemical parameters of wild common ravens (Corvuscorax).}, journal = {Biodiversity data journal}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {e103271}, pmid = {38327363}, issn = {1314-2828}, abstract = {Baseline haematological and biochemical blood parameters in healthy wild birds are key to managing wild populations and to saving critically ill individuals. This knowledge is crucial for the care, rehabilitation and the release of birds after treatment in wildlife rescue centres. Plasma levels provide valuable information for the evaluation of the physical condition of animals. The objective of this study was to obtain reference values of some basic biochemical blood parameters of wild common ravens (Corvuscorax). Between 2020 and 2023, we took blood samples from the wild population of common ravens in Bulgaria (n = 36). We determined the values of 18 parameters - alanine transaminase (ALT, U/I), albumin (g/l), alkaline phosphatase (ALP, U/I), amylase (U/I), aspartate transaminase (AST, U/I), calcium (mmol/l), chloride (mmol/l), cholesterol (mmol/l), creatine kinase (CK, U/I), creatinine (μmol/l), blood glucose (mmol/l), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH, U/I), magnesium (mmol/l), phosphorus (mmol/l), total bilirubin (μmol/l), total protein (g/l), triglycerides (TG, mmol/l) and uric acid (μmol/l). We made a comparative analysis including the regions in which the groups were sampled and the time of year. Most of the presented results were comparable to published values of other species from the Corvidae family and some were higher (ALP, amylase, AST, CK, total protein and uric acid levels). Most of these could be explained by the capture- and handling stress. This is the first report in official literary sources presenting some basic biochemical blood parameters of healthy wild common ravens in Bulgaria. The results may be of use to scientists, veterinarians and other researchers in rescue and rehabilitation centres and they can provide the basis for further studies with regards to animal welfare and health assessment of the species.}, }
@article {pmid38325410, year = {2024}, author = {Sitko, J and Heneberg, P}, title = {Avian trematodes of central European corvids are heterogeneous regarding preferences for host species and age.}, journal = {Journal of helminthology}, volume = {98}, number = {}, pages = {e17}, doi = {10.1017/S0022149X23001001}, pmid = {38325410}, issn = {1475-2697}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds/parasitology ; Czech Republic ; *Dicrocoeliidae ; Ecosystem ; *Trematoda ; }, abstract = {Corvids are highly adaptive birds that respond well to anthropogenic changes in their environment. Trematode communities of corvids were studied mainly in the 1950s through 1970s in regularly flooded parts of the Volga River delta in Russia; more recent studies and data from other regions where the corvids are in less contact with postflooding habitats are limited. Data for Corvus corax were lacking. Using our samples obtained from 1963 to 2023, we performed a large-scale analysis of trematode species composition and community structure in Corvus frugilegus, Corvus cornix, C. corax, Coloeus monedula, Pica pica, and Garrulus glandarius; all originated from the Czech Republic. We identified corvids as hosts of mutually overlapping component communities of only a few species of trematodes (Brachylecithum lobatum, Lyperosomum petiolatum, Lyperosomum longicauda, Tamerlania zarudnyi, Urogonimus macrostomus), with the presence of many rare and incidental findings of other trematode species. Only a few species used corvids as their core hosts (L. longicauda and B. lobatum). Trematode component communities in first-year birds included Prosthogonimus cuneatus, Prosthogonimus ovatus, Plagiorchis asperus, and Morishitium dollfusi due to an increased share of insects (intermediate hosts of Prosthogonimus and Plagiorchis) and snails (intermediate hosts of Morishitium) in the diet of juveniles. The trematode component communities of corvid species overlapped but were heterogeneous at the level of host individuals, likely reflecting differences in food sources related to the respective host ages and nesting sites.}, }
@article {pmid38314367, year = {2023}, author = {Shenoy, C and Agrawal, R and Chandrashekar, BS and Lalchandani, R}, title = {Comparison of Safety and Efficacy of Two Brands of Botulinum Toxin A for the Treatment of Lateral Canthal Lines (Crow's Feet): A Split-Face Study.}, journal = {Journal of cutaneous and aesthetic surgery}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {270-278}, pmid = {38314367}, issn = {0974-2077}, abstract = {AIM: To compare the safety and efficacy of Stunnox with the international brand of botulinum toxin A on lateral canthal lines.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a nonrandomized, controlled, pilot, split-face study in 47 patients who were given two brands of Botulinum toxin A for the treatment of lateral canthal lines for 12 weeks. Evaluation of lines was assessed with grades of 0 (none), 1 (mild), 2 (moderate), and 3 (severe) at a maximum smile and rest by using ANTERA 3D camera.<br><br>RESULTS: There was a statistical significance in lateral canthal lines wrinkles reduction on the Stunnox sides compared to pretreatment and at weeks 4, 8, and 12, respectively (all P < 0.05). The wrinkle reduction was similar to the effects of the control internationally available brand of botulinum toxin A. The clinical improvement of lateral canthal line wrinkles was greatest at 4 weeks after injection and the improvement lasted until 12 weeks of treatment with no adverse events observed.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In this split-face study, Stunnox botulinum toxin A showed a moderate but significant wrinkle-soothing effect without obvious side effects on the lateral canthal.}, }
@article {pmid38308828, year = {2023}, author = {Kazim, AR and Houssaini, J and Tappe, D and Heo, CC and Vellayan, S}, title = {Two new records of chewing lice (Phthiraptera: Amblycera) from the Oriental honey buzzard [Pernis ptilorhynchus (Temminck, 1821)] and house crow (Corvus splendens Viellot, 1817) in Malaysia.}, journal = {Tropical biomedicine}, volume = {40}, number = {4}, pages = {416-421}, doi = {10.47665/tb.40.4.006}, pmid = {38308828}, issn = {2521-9855}, mesh = {Animals ; *Amblycera ; *Crows ; *Ischnocera ; *Lice Infestations/veterinary ; Malaysia ; *Honey ; *Bird Diseases ; Birds ; }, abstract = {We report two new records of chewing lice from avian pets in Peninsular Malaysia: Colpocephalum apivorus Tendeiro, 1958 from an Oriental honey buzzard (Pernis ptilorhynchus (Temminck, 1821)), and Myrsidea splendenticola Klockenhoff, 1973 from an albino house crow (Corvus splendens Vieillot, 1817). The scarcity of louse records from avian pets and wild birds, and the lack of louse research in Malaysia are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid38306284, year = {2024}, author = {Clancey, E and MacPherson, A and Cheek, RG and Mouton, JC and Sillett, TS and Ghalambor, CK and Funk, WC and Hohenlohe, PA}, title = {Unraveling Adaptive Evolutionary Divergence at Microgeographic Scales.}, journal = {The American naturalist}, volume = {203}, number = {2}, pages = {E35-E49}, doi = {10.1086/727723}, pmid = {38306284}, issn = {1537-5323}, mesh = {Humans ; Bayes Theorem ; *Selection, Genetic ; *Ecosystem ; Phenotype ; Genetic Variation ; }, abstract = {AbstractStriking examples of local adaptation at fine geographic scales are increasingly being documented in natural populations. However, the relative contributions made by natural selection, phenotype-dependent dispersal (when individuals disperse with respect to a habitat preference), and mate preference in generating and maintaining microgeographic adaptation and divergence are not well studied. Here, we develop quantitative genetics models and individual-based simulations (IBSs) to uncover the evolutionary forces that possibly drive microgeographic divergence. We also perform Bayesian estimation of the parameters in our IBS using empirical data on habitat-specific variation in bill morphology in the island scrub-jay (Aphelocoma insularis) to apply our models to a natural system. We find that natural selection and phenotype-dependent dispersal can generate the patterns of divergence we observe in the island scrub-jay. However, mate preference for a mate with similar bill morphology, even though observed in the species, does not play a significant role in driving divergence. Our modeling approach provides insights into phenotypic evolution occurring over small spatial scales relative to dispersal ranges, suggesting that adaptive divergence at microgeographic scales may be common across a wider range of taxa than previously thought. Our quantitative genetic models help to inform future theoretical and empirical work to determine how selection, habitat preference, and mate preference contribute to local adaptation and microgeographic divergence.}, }
@article {pmid38302714, year = {2024}, author = {Jia, Y and Qiu, L and Zhang, H and Li, Z and Zhao, P and Zhang, Y and Zhang, B}, title = {Efficacy and Safety of Type III Collagen Lyophilized Fibers Using Mid-to-Deep Dermal Facial Injections for the Correction of Dynamic Facial Wrinkles.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {48}, number = {13}, pages = {2500-2512}, pmid = {38302714}, issn = {1432-5241}, support = {2020089//Scientific research project of Shanxi Provincial Health Commission/ ; 2021047//Scientific research project of Shanxi Provincial Health Commission/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; Retrospective Studies ; Female ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; Treatment Outcome ; Male ; Injections, Intradermal ; *Collagen Type III ; *Dermal Fillers/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Patient Satisfaction/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Freeze Drying ; Esthetics ; Face ; Cosmetic Techniques ; Cohort Studies ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of injecting Type III collagen lyophilized fibers into the mid-to-deep layers of the facial dermis to ameliorate dynamic facial wrinkles.<br><br>METHODS: In this retrospective analysis, clinical data were collected from patients exhibiting dynamic facial wrinkles (encompassing frown lines, forehead lines, and crow's feet) with a wrinkle severity rating scale (WSRS) score of 3 or higher. In the control group, 75 participants received collagen implant injections into the mid-to-deep facial dermal layers, whereas 76 participants in the experimental group received injections of Type III collagen lyophilized fibers in similar layers. The study analyzed and compared clinical efficacy, WSRS score alterations, patient satisfaction, and safety profiles between the groups over the 30-day and 90-day treatment periods.<br><br>RESULTS: At the 30-day mark, the therapeutic efficacy was not significantly different between the two groups (P&#xa0;>&#xa0;0.05). However, at 90 days, the treatment efficacy in the experimental group surpassed that in the control group, showing a statistically significant difference (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05). After 30 days of treatment, the WSRS score improvement in the experimental group was significantly superior to that in the control group (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05). Conversely, at the 90-day mark, the results revealed no significant variation in WSRS score improvements between the two groups (P&#xa0;>&#xa0;0.05). Regarding treatment satisfaction among researchers and participants post-30 and 90-day treatment in both groups, no statistically significant differences were observed (P&#xa0;>&#xa0;0.05). Similarly, the incidence of adverse reactions between the groups was not statistically significant (P&#xa0;>&#xa0;0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Injections of lyophilized type III collagen fibers into the mid-to-deep layers of the facial dermis have a definitive therapeutic effect on dynamic facial wrinkles. This treatment not only substantially diminishes wrinkle severity but also has a commendable safety profile.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE I: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .}, }
@article {pmid38301191, year = {2024}, author = {Rushovich, T and Nethery, RC and White, A and Krieger, N}, title = {1965 US Voting Rights Act Impact on Black and Black Versus White Infant Death Rates in Jim Crow States, 1959-1980 and 2017-2021.}, journal = {American journal of public health}, volume = {114}, number = {3}, pages = {300-308}, pmid = {38301191}, issn = {1541-0048}, mesh = {Humans ; Infant ; *Black or African American ; *Infant Death ; United States ; *Voting/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; White ; }, abstract = {Objectives. To investigate the impact of the US Voting Rights Act (VRA) of 1965 on Black and Black versus White infant deaths in Jim Crow states. Methods. Using data from 1959 to 1980 and 2017 to 2021, we applied difference-in-differences methods to quantify differential pre-post VRA changes in infant deaths in VRA-exposed versus unexposed counties, controlling for population size and social, economic, and health system characteristics. VRA-exposed counties, identified by Section 4, were subject to government interventions to remove existing racist voter suppression policies. Results. Black infant deaths in VRA-exposed counties decreased by an average of 11.4 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.7, 21.0) additional deaths beyond the decrease experienced by unexposed counties between the pre-VRA period (1959-1965) and the post-VRA period (1966-1970). This translates to 6703 (95% CI = 999.6, 12 348) or 17.5% (95% CI = 3.1%, 28.1%) fewer deaths than would have been experienced in the absence of the VRA. The equivalent differential changes were not significant among the White or total population. Conclusions. Passage of the VRA led to pronounced reductions in Black infant deaths in Southern counties subject to government intervention because these counties had particularly egregious voter suppression practices. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(3):300-308. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307518).}, }
@article {pmid38289304, year = {2023}, author = {Koryagina, YV and Ter-Akopov, GN and Abutalimova, SM and Nopin, SV and Akhkubekova, NK and Ukhanova, OP and Mikhailova, AA}, title = {[Effect of hyperoxic inhalations for athletes of different sports, including those who had COVID-19, when training in the middle altitude].}, journal = {Voprosy kurortologii, fizioterapii, i lechebnoi fizicheskoi kultury}, volume = {100}, number = {6}, pages = {46-51}, doi = {10.17116/kurort202310006146}, pmid = {38289304}, issn = {0042-8787}, mesh = {Humans ; Altitude ; *COVID-19 ; *Sports ; Athletes ; Hypoxia ; Oxygen ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To identify hyperoxic inhalations on the functional state of the cardiorespiratory system of athletes of different sports, who have previously had COVID-19, when training in the middle altitude.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included 64 elite athletes during the preparatory period. The studies were conducted in Kislovodsk in the middle altitude (1240 meters) on the Maloe Sedlo mountain, in the conditions of training camps. We studied the parameters of heart rate variability and functional state of cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Hyperoxic inhalations were performed with the JAY-10 oxygen concentrator (LONGFIAN SCITECH CO., LTD., China). The oxygen concentration in the mixture was 93&#xb1;3%, capacity - 5 l/min, exposure time - 20 min.<br><br>RESULTS: Athletes specializing in sports with predominantly anaerobic lactate and mixed mechanism of energy supply, respectively experiencing hypoxia in the process of their athletic activity during training can experience hypoxia at rest as well. The state of hypoxia during exercise in the middle altitude in such athletes is shown in heart rate variability indices (high values of heart rate and stress index, low power of high frequency waves), low saturation, increased oxygen uptake from the blood microcirculation system. The use of oxygen therapy in athletes promotes positive dynamics of the functional state, consisting in a reduced stress of regulatory mechanisms, strengthened tone of the parasympathetic nervous system in the heart rate regulation, increased economization of the central hemodynamics' parameters, improved functions of the external respiratory system.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Application of hyperoxic inhalations during intense exercise in the middle altitude has a favorable effect on the functional state of the cardiorespiratory system in all the studied sports, especially in athletes who have previously had COVID-19.}, }
@article {pmid38279165, year = {2024}, author = {Ziegler, S and Srivastava, S and Parmar, D and Basu, S and Jain, N and De Allegri, M}, title = {A step closer towards achieving universal health coverage: the role of gender in enrolment in health insurance in India.}, journal = {BMC health services research}, volume = {24}, number = {1}, pages = {141}, pmid = {38279165}, issn = {1472-6963}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; *Universal Health Insurance ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Sexism ; Insurance, Health ; India ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: There is limited understanding of how universal health coverage (UHC) schemes such as publicly-funded health insurance (PFHI) benefit women as compared to men. Many of these schemes are gender-neutral in design but given the existing gender inequalities in many societies, their benefits may not be similar for women and men. We contribute to the evidence by conducting a gender analysis of the enrolment of individuals and households in India's national PFHI scheme, Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY).<br><br>METHODS: We used data from a cross-sectional household survey on RSBY eligible families across eight Indian states and studied different outcome variables at both the individual and household levels to compare enrolment among women and men. We applied multivariate logistic regressions and controlled for several demographic and socio-economic characteristics.<br><br>RESULTS: At the individual level, the analysis revealed no substantial differences in enrolment between men and women. Only in one state were women more likely to be enrolled in RSBY than men (AOR: 2.66, 95% CI: 1.32-5.38), and this pattern was linked to their status in the household. At the household level, analyses revealed that female-headed households had a higher likelihood to be enrolled (AOR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.14-1.62), but not necessarily to have all household members enrolled.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Findings are surprising in light of India's well-documented gender bias, permeating different aspects of society, and are most likely an indication of success in designing a policy that did not favour participation by men above women, by mandating spouse enrolment and securing enrolment of up to five family members. Higher enrolment rates among female-headed households are also an indication of women's preferences for investments in health, in the context of a conducive policy environment. Further analyses are needed to examine if once enrolled, women also make use of the scheme benefits to the same extent as men do. India is called upon to capitalise on the achievements of RSBY and apply them to newer schemes such as PM-JAY.}, }
@article {pmid38262352, year = {2024}, author = {Johnsson, RD and Connelly, F and Lesku, JA and Roth, TC}, title = {Australian magpies.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {34}, number = {2}, pages = {R41-R43}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2023.12.017}, pmid = {38262352}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {Robin D. Johnsson and colleagues introduce Australian magpies, which are not actually magpies.}, }
@article {pmid38261937, year = {2024}, author = {Costa, D and Giordani, A}, title = {Aristotelian universals, strong immanence, and construction.}, journal = {Synthese}, volume = {203}, number = {2}, pages = {35}, pmid = {38261937}, issn = {0039-7857}, abstract = {The Aristotelian view of universals, according to which each universal generically depends for its existence on its instantiations, has recently come under attack by a series of ground-theoretic arguments. The last such arguments, presented by Raven, promises to offer several significant improvements over its predecessors, such as avoiding commitment to the transitivity of ground and offering new reasons for the metaphysical priority of universals over their instantiations. In this paper, we argue that Raven's argument does not effectively avoid said commitment and that Raven's new reasons fail. Moreover, we present a novel ground-theoretic interpretation of the Aristotelian view, referred to as strong immanence, and introduce a new argument against the Aristotelian view, intended to sidestep any commitment to the transitivity of ground.}, }
@article {pmid38261918, year = {2024}, author = {Godarzi, B and Chandler, F and van der Linden, A and Sikkema, RS and de Bruin, E and Veldhuizen, E and van Amerongen, A and Gröne, A}, title = {A species-independent lateral flow microarray immunoassay to detect WNV and USUV NS1-specific antibodies in serum.}, journal = {One health (Amsterdam, Netherlands)}, volume = {18}, number = {}, pages = {100668}, pmid = {38261918}, issn = {2352-7714}, abstract = {Arboviruses such as West Nile Virus (WNV) and Usutu Virus (USUV) are emerging pathogens that circulate between mosquitoes and birds, occasionally spilling over into humans and horses. Current serological screening methods require access to a well-equipped laboratory and are not currently available for on-site analysis. As a proof of concept, we propose here a species-independent lateral flow microarray immunoassay (LMIA) able to quickly detect and distinguish between WNV Non-Structural 1 (NS1) and USUV NS1-specific antibodies. A double antigen approach was used to test sera collected from humans, horses, European jackdaws (Corvus monedula), and common blackbirds (Turdus merula). Optimization of the concentration of capture antigen spotted on the LMIA membrane and the amount of detection antigen conjugated to detector particles indicated that maximizing both parameters increased assay sensitivity. Upon screening of a larger serum panel, the optimized LMIA showed significantly higher spot intensity for a homologous binding event. Using a Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curve, WNV NS1 LMIA results in humans, horses, and C. monedula showed good correlation when compared to "gold standard" WNV FRNT90. The most optimal derived sensitivity and specificity of the WNV NS1 LMIA relative to corresponding WNV FRNT90-confirmed sera were determined to be 96% and 86%, respectively. While further optimization is required, this study demonstrates the feasibility of developing a species-independent LMIA for on-site analysis of WNV, USUV, and other arboviruses. Such a tool would be useful for the on-site screening and monitoring of relevant species in more remote or low-income regions.}, }
@article {pmid38260596, year = {2024}, author = {Summers, J and Cosgrove, EJ and Bowman, R and Fitzpatrick, JW and Chen, N}, title = {Impacts of increasing isolation and environmental variation on Florida Scrub-Jay demography.}, journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1101/2024.01.10.575127}, pmid = {38260596}, issn = {2692-8205}, abstract = {Isolation caused by anthropogenic habitat fragmentation can destabilize populations. Populations relying on the inflow of immigrants can face reduced fitness due to inbreeding depression as fewer new individuals arrive. Empirical studies of the demographic consequences of isolation are critical to understand how populations persist through changing conditions. We used a 34-year demographic and environmental dataset from a population of cooperatively-breeding Florida Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) to create mechanistic models linking environmental and demographic factors to population growth rates. We found that the population has not declined despite both declining immigration and increasing inbreeding, owing to a coinciding response in breeder survival. We find evidence of density-dependent immigration, breeder survival, and fecundity, indicating that interactions between vital rates and local density play a role in buffering the population against change. Our study elucidates the impacts of isolation on demography and how long-term stability is maintained via demographic responses.}, }
@article {pmid38255402, year = {2024}, author = {Giancola, M and Palmiero, M and Pino, MC and Sannino, M and D'Amico, S}, title = {How Do Children "Think outside the Box"? Fluid Intelligence and Divergent Thinking: A Moderated Mediation Study of Field Dependent-Independent Cognitive Style and Gender.}, journal = {Children (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {38255402}, issn = {2227-9067}, abstract = {The interplay between fluid intelligence (Gf) and divergent thinking (DT) has widely characterized current research in the psychology of creativity. Nevertheless, the evidence on the main factors involved in this association during childhood remains a matter of debate. Present research has addressed the interplay between Gf and DT, exploring the mediating role of a field dependent-independent cognitive style (FDI) and the moderating effect of gender in 101 children (Mage = 8.02; SDage = 1.43). Participants carried out Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, the Children Embedded Figure Test, and the Alternative Uses Task. The results revealed the mediating effect of FDI in the association between Gf and DT, providing evidence that this cognitive style represents a function of controlled mental processes underpinned by Gf, which are useful to thinking divergently. In addition, the findings reported that the interplay between FDI and DT was moderated by gender, suggesting that the impact of FDI on DT was stronger among boys. Through a multidimensional approach, these current research findings provide further insight into the primary children's factors involved in the ability to find alternative solutions and think divergently.}, }
@article {pmid38244996, year = {2024}, author = {Williams, ME and Corn, EA and Martinez Ransanz, S and Berl, MM and Andringa-Seed, R and Mulkey, SB}, title = {Neurodevelopmental assessments used to measure preschoolers' cognitive development in Latin America: a systematic review.}, journal = {Journal of pediatric psychology}, volume = {49}, number = {5}, pages = {321-339}, pmid = {38244996}, issn = {1465-735X}, support = {P50 HD105328/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HD102445/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R01HD102445/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; //Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health &amp; Human Development/ ; R01HD102445/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; //DC Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center/ ; P50HD105328-01/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; //Thrasher Research Fund/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Latin America ; Child, Preschool ; *Child Development/physiology ; *Cognition ; Child ; Neuropsychological Tests/standards/statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to systematically review the standardized neurodevelopmental assessments used to study preschool-aged children's cognitive development in Spanish-speaking Latin America.<br><br>METHODS: The authors systematically searched PubMed, PsycINFO, and ERIC databases for peer-reviewed articles from Spanish-speaking Latin American countries. Articles were included if they measured cognitive development among children aged 2-6&#x2009;years using at least one standardized assessment tool; 97 articles were included and reviewed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines to assess their use of these tools.<br><br>RESULTS: Ninety-seven studies across 13 countries used a total of 41 assessments to measure cognitive development; most widely used were the Wechsler intelligence scales (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;46/97), particularly the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence and Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;23 and 29, respectively). Other common assessments included the McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;9), Raven's Progressive Matrices (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;9), Child Neuropsychological Assessment (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;8), and Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;7). In regions where normative data for a given assessment were unpublished, authors commonly used norms from the United States, Mexico, or Spain or did not report standard scores in their analyses.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The wide range of tools used in these studies presents a challenge for generalizing results when measuring the neurodevelopment of Latin American preschool-aged children. The low availability of normative data for specific regions reveals concerns if some tools are culturally and linguistically appropriate even when Spanish is a common language, particularly in low-resource settings. Future work to forge greater consistency in the use of validated measures, clarity in reporting research methods, and publication of regional normative data would benefit the field.}, }
@article {pmid38244968, year = {2024}, author = {Domínguez, A and Koch, S and Marquez, S and de Castro, M and Urquiza, J and Evandt, J and Oftedal, B and Aasvang, GM and Kampouri, M and Vafeiadi, M and Mon-Williams, M and Lewer, D and Lepeule, J and Andrusaityte, S and Vrijheid, M and Guxens, M and Nieuwenhuijsen, M}, title = {Childhood exposure to outdoor air pollution in different microenvironments and cognitive and fine motor function in children from six European cohorts.}, journal = {Environmental research}, volume = {247}, number = {}, pages = {118174}, doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2024.118174}, pmid = {38244968}, issn = {1096-0953}, mesh = {Child ; Humans ; *Air Pollutants/toxicity ; *Air Pollution/analysis ; Cognition ; Cohort Studies ; Environmental Exposure/analysis ; Particulate Matter/analysis ; Transportation ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Exposure to air pollution during childhood has been linked with adverse effects on cognitive development and motor function. However, limited research has been done on the associations of air pollution exposure in different microenvironments such as home, school, or while commuting with these outcomes.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To analyze the association between childhood air pollution exposure in different microenvironments and cognitive and fine motor function from six European birth cohorts.<br><br>METHODS: We included 1301 children from six European birth cohorts aged 6-11 years from the HELIX project. Average outdoor air pollutants concentrations (NO2, PM2.5) were estimated using land use regression models for different microenvironments (home, school, and commute), for 1-year before the outcome assessment. Attentional function, cognitive flexibility, non-verbal intelligence, and fine motor function were assessed using the Attention Network Test, Trail Making Test A and B, Raven Colored Progressive Matrices test, and the Finger Tapping test, respectively. Adjusted linear regressions models were run to determine the association between each air pollutant from each microenvironment on each outcome.<br><br>RESULTS: In pooled analysis we observed high correlation (rs&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.9) between air pollution exposures levels at home and school. However, the cohort-by-cohort analysis revealed correlations ranging from low to moderate. Air pollution exposure levels while commuting were higher than at home or school. Exposure to air pollution in the different microenvironments was not associated with working memory, attentional function, non-verbal intelligence, and fine motor function. Results remained consistently null in random-effects meta-analysis.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: No association was observed between outdoor air pollution exposure in different microenvironments (home, school, commute) and cognitive and fine motor function in children from six European birth cohorts. Future research should include a more detailed exposure assessment, considering personal measurements and time spent in different microenvironments.}, }
@article {pmid38239514, year = {2023}, author = {Fathima, A and Jeevanandan, G}, title = {Interrelationship Between Intelligence Quotient and Space Maintainers Among Children: A Cross-Sectional Comparative Study.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {15}, number = {12}, pages = {e50752}, pmid = {38239514}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {Introduction Intelligence quotient (IQ) is an indicator to measure a child's cognitive ability to learn or understand and to deal with new situations with their logical and analytical skills. Children with better IQ exhibit increased cooperation when undergoing dental treatments, leading to a positive attitude toward dental care. The primary aim of the study was to assess the interrelationship between the IQ of children, space maintainer therapy, and the behavior of children aged 6-10 years. Materials and methods A total of 104 children were divided into two groups: group 1 included children undergoing space maintainer therapy and group 2 included children who did not undergo space maintainer therapy. Their IQ scores were assessed using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices and behavior and the Frankl behavior rating scale. The data were analyzed by SPSS Version 23 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Independent t-tests were used to evaluate the differences between IQ and children with space maintainers, and Mann-Whitney U tests were used to assess the differences between behavior and space maintainers. Results The mean age of the participants was approximately 8.28 years. The mean IQ score of the group of children undergoing the space maintainer therapy was 90.69 ± 7.65 and that of the control group was 105.59±10.71. Based on the Frankl behavior rating scale, the mean score in the space maintainer group was 35.44 and that of the control group was 69.56. There was a significant association between IQ, behavior, and the presence of space maintainers. Conclusion The group of children undergoing space maintainer therapy demonstrated comparatively lesser IQ, and the majority of children exhibited negative behavior. Also, children wearing space maintainers had undergone one or multiple extractions, which is traumatic for children and may lead to them likely exhibiting a negative behavior than children in the control group. Hence, it may be concluded that intelligence, behavior, and space maintainers are all significantly associated with each other.}, }
@article {pmid38232729, year = {2024}, author = {Wang, X and Kostrzewa, C and Reiner, A and Shen, R and Begg, C}, title = {Adaptation of a mutual exclusivity framework to identify driver mutations within oncogenic pathways.}, journal = {American journal of human genetics}, volume = {111}, number = {2}, pages = {227-241}, pmid = {38232729}, issn = {1537-6605}, support = {P01 CA206980/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; P30 CA008748/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 CA251339/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Computational Biology/methods ; Likelihood Functions ; *Neoplasms/genetics ; Genomics/methods ; Mutation/genetics ; Algorithms ; }, abstract = {Distinguishing genomic alterations in cancer-associated genes that have functional impact on tumor growth and disease progression from the ones that are passengers and confer no fitness advantage have important clinical implications. Evidence-based methods for nominating drivers are limited by existing knowledge on the oncogenic effects and therapeutic benefits of specific variants from clinical trials or experimental settings. As clinical sequencing becomes a mainstay of patient care, applying computational methods to mine the rapidly growing clinical genomic data holds promise in uncovering functional candidates beyond the existing knowledge base and expanding the patient population that could potentially benefit from genetically targeted therapies. We propose a statistical and computational method (MAGPIE) that builds on a likelihood approach leveraging the mutual exclusivity pattern within an oncogenic pathway for identifying probabilistically both the specific genes within a pathway and the individual mutations within such genes that are truly the drivers. Alterations in a cancer-associated gene are assumed to be a mixture of driver and passenger mutations with the passenger rates modeled in relationship to tumor mutational burden. We use simulations to study the operating characteristics of the method and assess false-positive and false-negative rates in driver nomination. When applied to a large study of primary melanomas, the method accurately identifies the known driver genes within the RTK-RAS pathway and nominates several rare variants as prime candidates for functional validation. A comprehensive evaluation of MAGPIE against existing tools has also been conducted leveraging the Cancer Genome Atlas data.}, }
@article {pmid38225936, year = {2024}, author = {Bugnyar, T}, title = {Why are ravens smart? Exploring the social intelligence hypothesis.}, journal = {Journal of ornithology}, volume = {165}, number = {1}, pages = {15-26}, pmid = {38225936}, issn = {2193-7192}, support = {P 29705/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Ravens and other corvids are renowned for their 'intelligence'. For long, this reputation has been based primarily on anecdotes but in the last decades experimental evidence for impressive cognitive skills has accumulated within and across species. While we begin to understand the building blocks of corvid cognition, the question remains why these birds have evolved such skills. Focusing on Northern Ravens Corvus corax, I here try to tackle this question by relating current hypotheses on brain evolution to recent empirical data on challenges faced in the birds' daily life. Results show that foraging ravens meet several assumptions for applying social intelligence: (1) they meet repeatedly at foraging sites, albeit individuals have different site preferences and vary in grouping dynamics; (1) foraging groups are structured by dominance rank hierarchies and social bonds; (3) individual ravens memorize former group members and their relationship valence over years, deduce third-party relationships and use their social knowledge in daily life by supporting others in conflicts and intervening in others' affiliations. Hence, ravens' socio-cognitive skills may be strongly shaped by the 'complex' social environment experienced as non-breeders.}, }
@article {pmid38222241, year = {2023}, author = {Gupta, S and Prithviraj, M and Gangwar, A and Rath, RS}, title = {Impact of Sleep Duration, Quality, and Chronotype on Learning and Academic Performance: A Cross-Sectional Study Among First Year Medical Students of a Tertiary Care Institute.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {15}, number = {12}, pages = {e50413}, pmid = {38222241}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {Introduction The link between sleep and cognitive processes, such as memory and learning, continues to be one of the most intriguing and perplexing theories. Undergraduate medical students in their first year are particularly vulnerable to sleep disturbances. Academic achievement and learning have been linked to sleep patterns, which include not only the quantity and quality of sleep but also the timing of sleep in relation to the natural sleep onsets, or chronotypes. There have been conflicting reports on the outcomes of sleep and relatively fewer researches focused on the impact of chronotypes on learning and academic achievement among medical students. The current study thus sought to determine the chronotypes of medical students, evaluate the quantity and quality of sleep, and determine the impact of these factors on learning and academic performance. Methods The study was conducted in the Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Gorakhpur, India. Sleep health was assessed in 167 first-year medical students using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), morningness-eveningness questionnaire (MEQ), and sleep log books. Learning and memory assessment was performed using Raven's progressive matrices test. Grade point average (GPA) was used to assess their academic performance. The relationship of sleep scores with GPA and RPM scores were obtained by linear regression analysis. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and unpaired t-test were used to investigate other comparisons among categories of chronotypes and those of mean GPA. A p-value of <0.05 was considered as significant. Results The mean GPA and RPM scores obtained in the groups with PSQI ≥ 5 (2.67 ± 1.1, 49.51 ± 6.24, respectively) and PSQI < 5 (3.15 ± 0.59, 54.73 ± 4.01, respectively) and those in the group with ESS ≥ 10 (2.72 ± 1.17, 50.97 ± 5.92, respectively) and ESS < 10 (3.15 ± 0.6, 54.18 ± 3.91, respectively) varied with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). Statistically significant R-squared values for the relationship of PSQI and ESS scores with RPM and GPA scores were obtained. No correlation between academic grades and chronotype was found. Poor GPA scores were found to be associated with reduced mean sleep duration for one week before the exams. Conclusion Learning and academic performance are negatively impacted by poor sleep quality and daytime sleep dysfunction. No definite evidence for the association of sleep chronotypes with the learning and memory could be attained. Higher test performance is more closely linked to the average sleep length over a duration of time preceding the exams.}, }
@article {pmid38204786, year = {2024}, author = {Martin, K and Cornero, FM and Clayton, NS and Adam, O and Obin, N and Dufour, V}, title = {Vocal complexity in a socially complex corvid: gradation, diversity and lack of common call repertoire in male rooks.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {231713}, pmid = {38204786}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {Vocal communication is widespread in animals, with vocal repertoires of varying complexity. The social complexity hypothesis predicts that species may need high vocal complexity to deal with complex social organization (e.g. have a variety of different interindividual relations). We quantified the vocal complexity of two geographically distant captive colonies of rooks, a corvid species with complex social organization and cognitive performances, but understudied vocal abilities. We quantified the diversity and gradation of their repertoire, as well as the inter-individual similarity at the vocal unit level. We found that males produced call units with lower diversity and gradation than females, while song units did not differ between sexes. Surprisingly, while females produced highly similar call repertoires, even between colonies, each individual male produced almost completely different call repertoires from any other individual. These findings question the way male rooks communicate with their social partners. We suggest that each male may actively seek to remain vocally distinct, which could be an asset in their frequently changing social environment. We conclude that inter-individual similarity, an understudied aspect of vocal repertoires, should also be considered as a measure of vocal complexity.}, }
@article {pmid38191864, year = {2024}, author = {Ramos, HHA and Amaral, V and de Oliveira Afonso, LP and Campagnaro, JCM and Gazzinelli, HCG and Muzy, G and de Almeida, ART}, title = {Advanced Injection of Botulinum Toxin in the Nasal Muscles: A Novel Dynamic Change in Facial Expression.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {48}, number = {8}, pages = {1511-1521}, pmid = {38191864}, issn = {1432-5241}, mesh = {Humans ; Retrospective Studies ; *Facial Muscles/drug effects ; Female ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage ; *Facial Expression ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; Male ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Treatment Outcome ; Nose ; Cohort Studies ; Esthetics ; Neuromuscular Agents/administration &amp; dosage ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Among the nasal muscles, the levator labii superior alaeque nasi (LLSAN) acts as a transitional muscle that conjugates with other nasal and perinasal muscles. Thus, when treating the nasal region with Botulinum toxin (BTX), it is important to understand local nasal muscular dynamics and how they can influence the muscular dynamics of the entire face.<br><br>METHODS: This is a retrospective analysis of cases treated by an injection pattern encompassing the face, including nasal muscles. Photographs were taken at rest and during motion (frontal and oblique views), before and after treatment.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 227 patients have been treated in the last 18&#xa0;months with the following results: eyebrow tail lifting, softness of crow's feet, improvement of the drooping of the tip of the nose, and shortening of the lip philtrum when smiling. We present cases illustrating the use of this approach.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Treating the facial muscles globally (including the frontal, corrugators, procerus, orbicularis oculi, platysma, DAO, and nasal muscles) can improve the smile and facial expressions. This is believed to occur because the elevated portion of the upper lip muscle becomes stronger as the nasal part of the LLSAN is paralyzed.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .}, }
@article {pmid38185709, year = {2024}, author = {Liu, Y and Zhang, T and You, N and Wu, S and Shen, N}, title = {MAGPIE: accurate pathogenic prediction for multiple variant types using machine learning approach.}, journal = {Genome medicine}, volume = {16}, number = {1}, pages = {3}, pmid = {38185709}, issn = {1756-994X}, mesh = {Humans ; *Genome, Human ; *Machine Learning ; }, abstract = {Identifying pathogenic variants from the vast majority of nucleotide variation remains a challenge. We present a method named Multimodal Annotation Generated Pathogenic Impact Evaluator (MAGPIE) that predicts the pathogenicity of multi-type variants. MAGPIE uses the ClinVar dataset for training and demonstrates superior performance in both the independent test set and multiple orthogonal validation datasets, accurately predicting variant pathogenicity. Notably, MAGPIE performs best in predicting the pathogenicity of rare variants and highly imbalanced datasets. Overall, results underline the robustness of MAGPIE as a valuable tool for predicting pathogenicity in various types of human genome variations. MAGPIE is available at https://github.com/shenlab-genomics/magpie .}, }
@article {pmid38183183, year = {2024}, author = {Zhang, L and Feng, J and Liu, C and Hu, H and Zhou, Y and Yang, G and Peng, X and Li, T and Chen, C and Xue, G}, title = {Improved estimation of general cognitive ability and its neural correlates with a large battery of cognitive tasks.}, journal = {Cerebral cortex (New York, N.Y. : 1991)}, volume = {34}, number = {2}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1093/cercor/bhad510}, pmid = {38183183}, issn = {1460-2199}, support = {2021ZD0200500//STI 2030-Major Projects/ ; 32330039//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 62061136001/DFG TRR169//Sino-German Collaborative Research Project/ ; }, mesh = {Young Adult ; Humans ; Reproducibility of Results ; Neural Pathways ; *Brain/diagnostic imaging ; *Brain Mapping ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods ; Cognition ; }, abstract = {Elucidating the neural mechanisms of general cognitive ability (GCA) is an important mission of cognitive neuroscience. Recent large-sample cohort studies measured GCA through multiple cognitive tasks and explored its neural basis, but they did not investigate how task number, factor models, and neural data type affect the estimation of GCA and its neural correlates. To address these issues, we tested 1,605 Chinese young adults with 19 cognitive tasks and Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM) and collected resting state and n-back task fMRI data from a subsample of 683 individuals. Results showed that GCA could be reliably estimated by multiple tasks. Increasing task number enhances both reliability and validity of GCA estimates and reliably strengthens their correlations with brain data. The Spearman model and hierarchical bifactor model yield similar GCA estimates. The bifactor model has better model fit and stronger correlation with RAPM but explains less variance and shows weaker correlations with brain data than does the Spearman model. Notably, the n-back task-based functional connectivity patterns outperform resting-state fMRI in predicting GCA. These results suggest that GCA derived from a multitude of cognitive tasks serves as a valid measure of general intelligence and that its neural correlates could be better characterized by task fMRI than resting-state fMRI data.}, }
@article {pmid38174442, year = {2024}, author = {Elvebakken, HF and Christensen, IB and Vedel, C and Kjærulff, S}, title = {A proof of concept: Clinical anti-aging efficacy and safety of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LB244R® applied topically in a double-blinded placebo-controlled study.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {1233-1242}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.16138}, pmid = {38174442}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Humans ; Ointments/pharmacology ; *Skin ; *Skin Aging ; Double-Blind Method ; Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: With the increasing age of the westernized population, there is also increasing economic and aesthetic interest in reducing the signs of skin aging. Additionally, the physical aspect of aging can be displeasing and have detrimental effects psychologically in individuals. Probiotics have shown potential as anti-aging agents, albeit proper studies are needed to confirm their potential.<br><br>AIMS: Proving that Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LB244R&#xae; could alleviate aging signs relative to its placebo vehicle.<br><br>PATIENTS/METHODS: In total, 46 subjects were randomly assigned either the ointment with live bacteria, L. plantarum LB244R&#xae; or its vehicle ointment, and had to use the assigned ointment twice daily for 56&#x2009;days. On Day 0, Day 28, and Day 56 subepidermal low echogenic band (SLEB) thickness, dermal density, skin firmness and elasticity, skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin pH, collagen fiber visualization using confocal microscopy, Crow's feet, spot score, skin smoothness, and complexion radiance were assessed by dermatologists.<br><br>RESULTS: All parameters except TEWL improved relative to their baseline (D0) for the active group. L. plantarum LB244R&#xae; improved SLEB thickness, dermal density, skin elasticity, skin hydration, and Crow's feet wrinkle score relative to the placebo vehicle ointment.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The study demonstrates an anti-aging effect of L. plantarum LB244R&#xae; for topical skin use in the first double-blinded, vehicle-ointment placebo-controlled clinical study.}, }
@article {pmid38170976, year = {2024}, author = {Atiyeh, B and Ghanem, OA and Oneisi, A and Chalhoub, R}, title = {Long-Term Improvement of Crow's Feet Wrinkles in Combination With Cervicofacial and Temporal Lifting: Review of the Literature.}, journal = {Annals of plastic surgery}, volume = {92}, number = {4}, pages = {474-483}, doi = {10.1097/SAP.0000000000003740}, pmid = {38170976}, issn = {1536-3708}, mesh = {Humans ; *Blepharoplasty/methods ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A/therapeutic use ; Facial Muscles/surgery ; Lifting ; *Rhytidoplasty/methods ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The lateral orbital crow's feet area is one for which rejuvenation is most frequently requested by patients. Moreover, lateral canthal wrinkles are a common source of dissatisfaction after rhytidoplasty. Botulinum toxin injection has emerged as a most popular, easy, and effective solution; nevertheless, repeated injections are required periodically for long-term effect. Other nonsurgical options have also been described to have some demonstrable advantages. Orbicularis oculi surgical manipulations have been described as well.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: A systematic PubMed literature search was conducted to identify clinical cohort studies including more than 10 patients describing surgical approaches for improvement of crows' feet wrinkles in combination with face and/or temporal lifts. The search was complemented by Embase, Medline, and Cochrane searches in addition to screening of reference lists of selected studies and simple term searches about surgical treatment of crow's feet.<br><br>RESULTS: Fourteen studies satisfied the inclusion criteria and were included in this review describing various muscle excision techniques including vertical strip excision, lateral partial resection, wedge resection, muscle resection in "C" pattern, and enlarged myectomy of about one-third of the whole orbital extension in addition to muscle manipulation modalities, including muscle splaying, muscle division, muscle division and splaying, muscle undermining with partial denervation, and muscle suspension. Interposition of fascia between orbicularis muscle and overlying skin was also reported.<br><br>CONCLUSION: View the few studies retrieved and the wide spectrum of reported techniques, it is not possible to determine from this review the most effective modality. Nevertheless, it seems that subcutaneous undermining of the lateral canthal area combined with splaying and traction of the orbicularis oculi muscle and fixation to the temporalis fascia with or without muscle division would yield the best long-term results. This review indicates also that surgical correction of crow's feet during rhytidectomy or temporal lift could be a positive complement to improve aesthetic outcome. Unfortunately, if not underreported, it is definitely neglected. We believe that this review may be an eye-opener for surgeons.}, }
@article {pmid38168159, year = {2023}, author = {Krieger, N and Testa, C and Chen, JT and Johnson, N and Watkins, SH and Suderman, M and Simpkin, AJ and Tilling, K and Waterman, PD and Coull, BA and De Vivo, I and Smith, GD and Roux, AVD and Relton, C}, title = {Epigenetic aging &amp; embodying injustice: US My Body My Story and Multi-Ethnic Atherosclerosis Study.}, journal = {medRxiv : the preprint server for health sciences}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {38168159}, support = {R01 AG027122/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; 75N92020D00005/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HL135009/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95163/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 TR001079/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95164/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95168/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; P30 DK063491/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95165/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95159/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; 75N92020D00007/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95167/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 TR000040/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 TR001881/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; 75N92020D00002/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; HHSN268201500003C/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95160/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; T32 AI007358/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; P30 ES000002/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DK101921/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; 75N92020D00001/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95169/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HL101250/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MD014304/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95162/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; 75N92020D00003/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95161/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 TR001420/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; 75N92020D00004/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; HHSN268201500003I/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; RF1 AG054474/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HL126477/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; 75N92020D00006/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95166/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {IMPORTANCE: Epigenetic accelerated aging is associated with exposure to social and economic adversity and may increase risk of premature morbidity and mortality. However, no studies have included measures of structural racism and few have compared estimates within or across the 1[st] and 2[nd] generation of epigenetic clocks (the latter additionally trained on phenotypic data).<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To determine if accelerated epigenetic aging is associated with exposures to diverse measures of racialized, economic, and environmental injustice measured at different levels and time periods.<br><br>DESIGN: Cross-sectional My Body My Story Study (MBMS; US, 2008-2010) and Exam 5 Multi-Ethnic Atherosclerosis Study (MESA; US, 2010-2012). MBMS DNA extraction: 2021; linkage of structural measures to MBMS and MESA: 2022.<br><br>SETTING: MBMS recruited a random sample of US-born Black non-Hispanic (BNH) and white non-Hispanic (WNH) participants from 4 community health centers in Boston, MA. The MESA Exam 5 epigenetic component included 975 randomly selected US-born BNH, WNH, and Hispanic participants from four field sites: Baltimore, MD; Forsyth County, NC; New York City, NY; St. Paul, MN.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: US-born persons (MBMS: 224 BNH, 69 WNH; MESA: 229 BNH, 555 WNH, 191 Hispanic).<br><br>MAIN OUTCOME AND MEASURES: 10 epigenetic clocks (six 1[st] generation; four 2[nd] generation), computed using DNA methylation data (DNAm) from blood spots (MBMS; N = 293) and purified monocytes (MESA; N = 975).<br><br>RESULTS: Among Black non-Hispanic MBMS participants, epigenetic age acceleration was associated with being born in a Jim Crow state by 0.14 standard deviations (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.00, 0.27) and with birth state conservatism (0.06, 95% CI 0.00, 0.05), pooling across all clocks, as was low parental education for both Black non-Hispanic and white non-Hispanic MBMS participants (respectively: 0.24, 95% CI 0.08, 0.39, and 0.27, 95% CI 0.03, 0.51. Adult impoverishment was positively associated with the pooled 2[nd] generation clocks among the MESA participants (Black non-Hispanic: 0.06, 95% CI 0.01, 0.12; white non-Hispanic: 0.05, 95% CI 0.01, 0.08; Hispanic: 0.07, 95% CI 0.01, 0.14).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Epigenetic accelerated aging may be one of the biological mechanisms linking exposure to racialized and economic injustice to well-documented inequities in premature morbidity and mortality.}, }
@article {pmid38165732, year = {2024}, author = {Wagener, L and Nieder, A}, title = {Conscious Experience of Stimulus Presence and Absence Is Actively Encoded by Neurons in the Crow Brain.}, journal = {Journal of cognitive neuroscience}, volume = {36}, number = {3}, pages = {508-521}, doi = {10.1162/jocn_a_02101}, pmid = {38165732}, issn = {1530-8898}, support = {NI 618/6-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Consciousness ; *Crows ; Telencephalon/physiology ; Brain/physiology ; Visual Perception/physiology ; Neurons/physiology ; }, abstract = {The emergence of consciousness from brain activity constitutes one of the great riddles in biology. It is commonly assumed that only the conscious perception of the presence of a stimulus elicits neuronal activation to signify a "neural correlate of consciousness," whereas the subjective experience of the absence of a stimulus is associated with a neuronal resting state. Here, we demonstrate that the two subjective states "stimulus present" and "stimulus absent" are represented by two specialized neuron populations in crows, corvid birds. We recorded single-neuron activity from the nidopallium caudolaterale of crows trained to report the presence or absence of images presented near the visual threshold. Because of the task design, neuronal activity tracking the conscious "present" versus "absent" percept was dissociated from that involved in planning a motor response. Distinct neuron populations signaled the subjective percepts of "present" and "absent" by increases in activation. The response selectivity of these two neuron populations was similar in strength and time course. This suggests a balanced code for subjective "presence" versus "absence" experiences, which might be beneficial when both conscious states need to be maintained active in the service of goal-directed behavior.}, }
@article {pmid38165586, year = {2024}, author = {Rodriguez, JM and Bae, B}, title = {Political Ideology Direction of Policy Agendas and Maternal Mortality Outcomes in the U.S., 1915-2007.}, journal = {Maternal and child health journal}, volume = {28}, number = {5}, pages = {865-872}, pmid = {38165586}, issn = {1573-6628}, mesh = {United States/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Maternal Mortality ; *Policy ; Politics ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The causes for persistently high and increasing maternal mortality rates in the United States have been elusive.<br><br>METHODS: We use the shift in the ideological direction of the Republican and the Democratic parties in the 1960s, to test the hypothesis that fluctuations in overall and race-specific maternal mortality rates (MMR) follow the power shifts between the parties before and after the Political Realignment (PR) of the 1960s.<br><br>RESULTS: Using time-series data analysis methods, we&#xa0;find that, net of trend, overall and race-specific MMRs were higher under Democratic administrations than Republican ones before the PR (1915-1965)-i.e., when the Democratic Party was a protector of the Jim Crow system. This pattern, however, changed after the PR (1966-2007), with Republican administrations underperforming Democratic ones-i.e., during the period when the Republican Party shifted toward a more economically and socially conservative agenda. The pre-post PR partisan shifts in MMRs were larger for Black (9.5%, p < . 01) relative to White mothers (7.4%, p < . 05) during the study period.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS FOR PRACTICE: These findings imply that parties and the ideological direction of their agendas substantively affect the social determinants of maternal health and produce politized health outcomes.}, }
@article {pmid38159630, year = {2024}, author = {Xu, J}, title = {Comment on "neurotoxicity of 4-nonylphenol in adult zebrafish: Evaluation of behaviour, oxidative stress parameters and histopathology of brain"by Jay K. Desai. et al. [Environmental Pollution 334 (2023): 122206].}, journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)}, volume = {343}, number = {}, pages = {123214}, doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123214}, pmid = {38159630}, issn = {1873-6424}, mesh = {Animals ; *Zebrafish/physiology ; *Brain ; Oxidative Stress ; Environmental Pollution ; *Phenols ; }, abstract = {In a recent study by Jay K. Desai et al., (Desai et al., 2023) the authors extensively documented the effects of long-term exposure to 4-nonylphenol neurotoxicity in zebrafish, including oxidative stress markers, behavioral changes, and neuropathology results. The results indicate that, although Neurotoxicity of 4-nonylphenol did not cause evident changes in zebrafish brain tissue pathology, it significantly induced oxidative stress reactions in the zebrafish brain and altered their exploratory behaviors in response to light and dark stimuli.However, upon reviewing the results of this study, we have identified several questionable outcomes and errors in image usage, leading to some concerns.}, }
@article {pmid38155685, year = {2023}, author = {Rajaei, N and Doosti, A}, title = {Designing a novel method based on multiplex PCR for detecting various meat of birds in processed ground meat products.}, journal = {Food chemistry. Molecular sciences}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {100177}, pmid = {38155685}, issn = {2666-5662}, abstract = {Falsified food directly influences wildlife, fair trade, religion, and the health of society. Here, we report a multiplex polymerase chain reaction to evaluate the accurate determination of seven species of bird meat in meals on a single assay platform. To amplify segments of DNA from Columba livia, Corvus moneduloides, Gallus gallus, Coturnix japonica, Phasianus colchicus, Struthio camelus, and Meleagris gallopavo meats, respectively, a total of seven sets of species-specific primers targeting the mitochondrial and cytochrome b genes were developed. Gel photographs and electrochromatography from an Experion Bioanalyzer were used to identify all PCR products. Species specificity checks discovered no cross-species amplification. The applicability of its screening to find target species in processed food was shown in commercial and model meatballs. A validation study revealed that the test is reliable, quick, affordable, repeatable, specific, and accurate down to 50,000 mitochondrial copies. It might be used for raw meats and products involving processed and severely deteriorated food samples. The customers, the food business, and law enforcement would all benefit immensely from this suggested approach.}, }
@article {pmid38154314, year = {2024}, author = {Simonit, F and Da Broi, U and Giudici, F and Sciarappa, OE and Innocenti, D and Desinan, L}, title = {Autopsy findings in fire deaths in relation to manner of death: Analysis of autopsy records in Friuli, Italy (1993-2020).}, journal = {Legal medicine (Tokyo, Japan)}, volume = {67}, number = {}, pages = {102372}, doi = {10.1016/j.legalmed.2023.102372}, pmid = {38154314}, issn = {1873-4162}, mesh = {Humans ; *Suicide ; Homicide ; *Burns ; Autopsy ; Accidents ; Italy/epidemiology ; Cause of Death ; Retrospective Studies ; }, abstract = {The determination of the cause and manner of death can be particularly difficult in burned and charred bodies and autopsy remains a key element in the investigation. In this study, 39 autopsy records of fire deaths were reviewed in relation to the manner of death (25 accidents, 8 suicides, 3 homicides and 3 instances in which the manner of death remained undetermined). The analysis focused on the study of the burns, the degree to which the bodies were consumed by fire and the evidence of signs of vital exposure to fire and of non-fire-related injuries. Total surface body area (TBSA) was found to be significantly higher (p = 0.02) in suicides than in accidents. Moreover, the degree of destruction according to the Crow-Glassman Scale and the presence of a pugilistic posture tended to be higher in suicides compared to accidental deaths, whereas such parameters were found to be variable in homicides. With regard to the anatomical distribution of burns, in contrast with the literature, the feet were affected by burning in all suicides, with a significantly higher prevalence than in accidents (p < 0.01). Traumatic non-fire related injuries were noted in all homicides (with no signs of vital exposure to fire), 1 complicated suicide, 1 undetermined death and 13 accidents. We found that very few studies have focused on the analysis of burn distribution and extension according to manner of death and that there is currently no standardised anatomical model with which to study these variables for forensic purposes.}, }
@article {pmid38145675, year = {2024}, author = {Drysdale, M and Gamberg, M and Brammer, J and Majowicz, SE and Packull-McCormick, S and Skinner, K and Laird, BD}, title = {Hexachlorobenzene and omega-3 fatty acid intake from traditional foods in the northern Yukon: A risk and benefit analysis.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {914}, number = {}, pages = {169205}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169205}, pmid = {38145675}, issn = {1879-1026}, mesh = {Humans ; *Hexachlorobenzene/analysis ; Yukon Territory ; Canada ; *Fatty Acids, Omega-3 ; Docosahexaenoic Acids ; Eicosapentaenoic Acid ; Body Weight ; }, abstract = {A human biomonitoring study was conducted in the community of Old Crow, Yukon, in 2019, finding that levels of hexachlorobenzene (HCB) in plasma were elevated in the community relative to the general Canadian population. The aim of this study was to estimate dietary intake of both hexachlorobenzene, and the nutrient omega-3 fatty acids from locally harvested traditional foods in Old Crow, with the aim of identifying possible regional sources of exposure. A stochastic model was constructed to estimate intake of both hexachlorobenzene and the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Average predicted hexachlorobenzene exposure levels from traditional food consumption in Old Crow were below the tolerable daily intake of 1600-1700 ng/kg body weight/day in both average (18 ng/kg body weight/day) and short-term maximum (27 ng/kg body weight/day) exposure models. The primary contributors to average hexachlorobenzene intake were caribou fat, bone marrow, ribs, and kidneys, and Chinook salmon muscle. Average estimated dietary EPA + DHA intake levels from traditional foods were below the recommendation of 2.1 to 3.2 g of EPA + DHA per week in the average (1.6 g/week) exposure model, but above this recommendation in the short-term maximum model (3.3 g/week). The primary contributors to average EPA + DHA intake were the meat of Chinook, coho, and, chum salmon muscle, and whitefish muscle and eggs. The results of this study support the message that traditional foods continue to be an important source of nutrients and other health benefits and that the health benefits of traditional foods generally outweigh contaminant risks.}, }
@article {pmid38117679, year = {2024}, author = {Lipton, LR and Prock, L and Camarata, S and Fogler, J and Nyp, SS}, title = {Developmental Delay and Behavior Challenges in an Internationally Adopted Child.}, journal = {Journal of developmental and behavioral pediatrics : JDBP}, volume = {45}, number = {1}, pages = {e88-e91}, doi = {10.1097/DBP.0000000000001235}, pmid = {38117679}, issn = {1536-7312}, mesh = {Male ; Humans ; Child ; *Child, Adopted ; Social Behavior ; Aggression ; *Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/diagnosis ; *Language Development Disorders/diagnosis ; }, abstract = {Jay is a 6-year-old boy who was referred to a multidisciplinary developmental clinic for evaluation because of speech/language delays and challenging behaviors. He attends kindergarten with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) supporting developmental challenges with speech/language, motor, and academic skills.Jay was reportedly born full-term after an uneventful pregnancy and lived with his biological family for several months before transitioning to institutional care. Shortly before his first birthday, he transitioned to the first of 3 foster homes. It is suspected that Jay experienced malnourishment, neglect, lack of appropriate supervision, and inappropriate levels of responsibility (e.g., providing care to an infant when he was a toddler) as well as limited language input while in foster care. Ages at which he attained developmental milestones are unknown, but he has displayed delays across all developmental domains, including speech/language development in his primary language, which is not English.Jay's adoptive parents report that he is learning English vocabulary well but has been noted to have occasional word-finding difficulties and errors in verb conjugation, pronoun use, and syntax in English. Behavioral concerns include impulsivity, hyperactivity, and aggression exacerbated by new or loud environments and transitions. Socially, he seems to be typically engaged with peers but lacks understanding of personal space/boundaries. His adoptive parents have also noted that he is very sensitive to the emotions of others around him, more irritable in the morning, fascinated by "scary" things, and seems to fear abandonment. During the initial months in his adoptive home, he had frequent night awakenings, fear of the dark, and aggression at bedtime, but all these concerns have improved with time.Neuropsychological testing was completed as part of the multidisciplinary developmental evaluation, and Jay demonstrated low-average cognitive abilities, delayed preacademic skills in all language-based areas, and receptive and expressive language delays. He was socially engaged during the evaluation. Ultimately, he was diagnosed with mixed receptive-expressive language disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, combined presentation, and unspecified trauma/stress-related disorder.Given what is known about Jay's early history, what factors would you consider in addressing his parents' concerns regarding his speech/language development and behavior challenges?}, }
@article {pmid38114856, year = {2024}, author = {Wang, CZ and van Loon, JJA}, title = {Chemosensory detection of glucosinolates as token stimuli for specialist insects on brassicaceous plants: discovery and impact.}, journal = {Journal of comparative physiology. A, Neuroethology, sensory, neural, and behavioral physiology}, volume = {210}, number = {2}, pages = {243-248}, pmid = {38114856}, issn = {1432-1351}, support = {32130090//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Butterflies/physiology ; Glucosinolates ; Insecta ; Larva ; }, abstract = {In this paper, we take a historical perspective by going back to Verschaffelt's landmark study published in 1910, in which he found that glucosinolates were used as token stimuli by larvae of Pieris butterflies, specialist feeders on plants in the family Brassicaceae. This classic discovery provided key evidence for Fraenkel (Science 129:1466-1470, 1959) to elaborate on the function of secondary plant substances and for Ehrlich and Raven (Evolution 18:586-608, 1964) to put forward the hypothesis of insect-plant coevolution. The discovery by Schoonhoven (Kon Nederl Akad Wetensch Amsterdam Proc Ser C70:556-568, 1967) of taste neurons highly sensitive to glucosinolates in Pieris brassicae was an important milestone in elucidating the chemosensory basis of host-plant specialization. The molecular basis of glucosinolate sensitivity was elucidated recently (Yang et al., PLoS Genet 17, 2021) paving the way to unravel the evolution of gustatory receptors tuned to glucosinolates that are crucial for host-plant selection of Pieris butterflies. We propose a hypothetical model for the evolution of labeled-line neurons tuned to token stimuli.}, }
@article {pmid38109036, year = {2023}, author = {Raymond, S and St Clair, CC}, title = {Urban Magpies Frequently Feed on Coyote Scats and May Spread an Emerging Zoonotic Tapeworm.}, journal = {EcoHealth}, volume = {20}, number = {4}, pages = {441-452}, pmid = {38109036}, issn = {1612-9210}, support = {Canada Graduate Scholarship--Master's//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; Discovery Grant (RGPIN-2017-05915)//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; Faculty of Science Research Fellowship//University of Alberta/ ; Walter H. Johns Graduate Fellowship//University of Alberta/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Coyotes/parasitology ; Animals, Wild/parasitology ; Zoonoses/epidemiology ; Cities ; *Cestoda ; *Parasites ; }, abstract = {Allocoprophagy, in which animals feed on the feces of other individuals or species, has been little studied in vertebrates, despite its relevance to parasite transmission. These relationships may be especially important in cities, where animal density, disease incidence, and spatial overlap of humans and wildlife increase. Our goal was to document the incidence and predictors of coprophagy by black-billed magpies (Pica hudsonia) at coyote (Canis latrans) scats in Edmonton, Canada. We detected scats by following coyote trails and recorded whether coprophagy had occurred. We used multiple logistic regression to determine the top contextual and environmental predictors of coprophagy. Of 668 coyote scats, 37.3% had apparently been fed on. Coprophagy was more likely in winter and when scats were not fresh and did not contain vegetation or garbage. Environmental predictors of coprophagy included proximity to other coyote scats and playgrounds, distance from water and maintained trails, abundant natural land cover, and proximity to encampments of people experiencing homelessness. Our results reveal that magpies frequently access coyote scat and often do so near human-use areas. In Edmonton, where > 50% of coyotes are infected with a zoonotic tapeworm, coprophagy likely causes magpies to transport parasites with implications for zoonotic disease risk.}, }
@article {pmid38107531, year = {2023}, author = {Lohrasbi, S and Moradi, AR and Sadeghi, M}, title = {Exploring Emotion Recognition Patterns Among Iranian People Using CANTAB as an Approved Neuro-Psychological Assessment.}, journal = {Basic and clinical neuroscience}, volume = {14}, number = {2}, pages = {289-295}, pmid = {38107531}, issn = {2008-126X}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Emotion recognition is the main component of social cognition and has various patterns in different cultures and nationalities. The present study aimed to investigate emotion recognition patterns among Iranians using the Cambridge neuro-psychological test automated battery (CANTAB) as a valid neuropsychological test.<br><br>METHODS: In this descriptive-analytical study, 117 males and females (Mean&#xb1;SD of age 32.1&#xb1;6.4) were initially assessed by computerized intelligence and progressive matrices of RAVEN-2. Furthermore, the excitement recognition subtest taken from the Cambridge neuro-psychological test automated battery (CANTAB) was performed. The correct response of participants to each of the six basic emotions as well as the recognition time was used for analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: The maximum correct response rate was 75.83% related to happy emotion. The correct responses for sadness, surprise, disgust, anger, and fear were 70%, 68.48%, 47.84%, 42.54%, and 38.26%, respectively. Moreover, the shortest recognition time was related to disgust at 322 ms, while sadness with a mean response time of 1800 ms and fear response time at 1529 ms indicated the longest recognition time. In addition, participants recognized happiness with a mean response time of 1264 ms better than other emotions; however, post-hoc t-test analyses showed that only the correct responses for sadness and surprised emotions did not differ significantly, (t(112)=-0.59, P=0.55, d=0.05). These results suggested that different emotions have various correct responses. However, sadness and surprise did not differ.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The findings of this study could be beneficial for evaluating cognitive elements, as well as cognitive abilities and inabilities among the Iranian population. Moreover, the findings could be used for investigating social cognition in this population.<br><br>HIGHLIGHTS: Emotion recognition patterns among Iranians were investigated using a valid neuropsychological test.Iranians showed higher accuracy in recognizing happiness and lower accuracy in recognizing fear.Disgust was recognized with the shortest response time, while sadness and fear had the longest recognition time.The findings highlight cultural differences in emotion recognition and can aid in evaluating cognitive abilities and social cognition in the Iranian population.The study emphasizes the importance of considering cultural factors in assessing and understanding emotion recognition.<br><br>PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: Understanding how people recognize emotions is crucial for effective communication and building social connections. However, the ability to recognize emotions can vary across cultures. This study aimed to investigate how Iranians recognize emotions using a reliable test. The researchers assessed 117 Iranian adults, both males and females, using a computer-based test. Participants were asked to identify six basic emotions (happiness, sadness, anger, disgust, fear, and surprise) displayed on a screen. The researchers measured the participants' accuracy in identifying each emotion and the time it took them to recognize it. The findings revealed that Iranians were most accurate in recognizing happiness and least accurate in recognizing fear. They were better at identifying positive emotions like happiness and surprise compared to negative emotions like disgust and anger. Participants took the least time to recognize disgust and the longest time to recognize sadness and fear. These results show that Iranians have specific patterns in recognizing emotions, which can be influenced by cultural factors. Understanding these patterns is important for assessing cognitive abilities and social cognition in the Iranian population. Moreover, these findings have broader implications. They highlight the need to consider cultural differences in emotion recognition, as it can impact communication and social interactions. The study's outcomes can be valuable for various applications. For instance, they can aid in developing tests to assess emotion recognition difficulties in individuals with conditions such as autism or schizophrenia. Furthermore, these findings can be useful for professionals, such as employees in customer service or mental health providers, who need to accurately interpret others' emotions. By shedding light on cultural variations in emotion recognition, this research contributes to our understanding of human emotions and their role in interpersonal relationships.}, }
@article {pmid38105971, year = {2023}, author = {Watkins, SH and Testa, C and Simpkin, AJ and Smith, GD and Coull, B and De Vivo, I and Tilling, K and Waterman, PD and Chen, JT and Diez-Roux, AV and Krieger, N and Suderman, M and Relton, C}, title = {An epigenome-wide analysis of DNA methylation, racialized and economic inequities, and air pollution.}, journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {38105971}, issn = {2692-8205}, support = {R01 AG027122/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; 75N92020D00005/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HL135009/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95163/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 TR001079/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95164/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95168/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; P30 DK063491/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95165/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95159/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; 75N92020D00007/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95167/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 TR000040/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 TR001881/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; 75N92020D00002/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; HHSN268201500003C/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95160/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; T32 AI007358/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; P30 ES000002/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DK101921/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; 75N92020D00001/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95169/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HL101250/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MD014304/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95162/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; 75N92020D00003/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95161/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 TR001420/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; 75N92020D00004/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; HHSN268201500003I/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; RF1 AG054474/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HL126477/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; 75N92020D00006/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; N01HC95166/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {IMPORTANCE: DNA methylation (DNAm) provides a plausible mechanism by which adverse exposures become embodied and contribute to health inequities, due to its role in genome regulation and responsiveness to social and biophysical exposures tied to societal context. However, scant epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS) have included structural and lifecourse measures of exposure, especially in relation to structural discrimination.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: Our study tests the hypothesis that DNAm is a mechanism by which racial discrimination, economic adversity, and air pollution become biologically embodied.<br><br>DESIGN: A series of cross-sectional EWAS, conducted in My Body My Story (MBMS, biological specimens collected 2008-2010, DNAm assayed in 2021); and the Multi Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA; biological specimens collected 2010-2012, DNAm assayed in 2012-2013); using new georeferenced social exposure data for both studies (generated in 2022).<br><br>SETTING: MBMS was recruited from four community health centers in Boston; MESA was recruited from four field sites in: Baltimore, MD; Forsyth County, NC; New York City, NY; and St. Paul, MN.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: Two population-based samples of US-born Black non-Hispanic (Black NH), white non-Hispanic (white NH), and Hispanic individuals (MBMS; n=224 Black NH and 69 white NH) and (MESA; n=229 Black NH, n=555 white NH and n=191 Hispanic).<br><br>EXPOSURES: Eight social exposures encompassing racial discrimination, economic adversity, and air pollution.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOME: Genome-wide changes in DNAm, as measured using the Illumina EPIC BeadChip (MBMS; using frozen blood spots) and Illumina 450k BeadChip (MESA; using purified monocytes). Our hypothesis was formulated after data collection.<br><br>RESULTS: We observed the strongest associations with traffic-related air pollution (measured via black carbon and nitrogen oxides exposure), with evidence from both studies suggesting that air pollution exposure may induce epigenetic changes related to inflammatory processes. We also found suggestive associations of DNAm variation with measures of structural racial discrimination (e.g., for Black NH participants, born in a Jim Crow state; adult exposure to racialized economic residential segregation) situated in genes with plausible links to effects on health.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Overall, this work suggests that DNAm is a biological mechanism through which structural racism and air pollution become embodied and may lead to health inequities.}, }
@article {pmid38097447, year = {2024}, author = {Güntürkün, O and Pusch, R and Rose, J}, title = {Why birds are smart.}, journal = {Trends in cognitive sciences}, volume = {28}, number = {3}, pages = {197-209}, pmid = {38097447}, issn = {1879-307X}, support = {101021354//AVIAN MIND/ ; 316803389//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation)/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds/physiology ; *Cognition/physiology ; Neocortex ; Prefrontal Cortex ; }, abstract = {Many cognitive neuroscientists believe that both a large brain and an isocortex are crucial for complex cognition. Yet corvids and parrots possess non-cortical brains of just 1-25 g, and these birds exhibit cognitive abilities comparable with those of great apes such as chimpanzees, which have brains of about 400 g. This opinion explores how this cognitive equivalence is possible. We propose four features that may be required for complex cognition: a large number of associative pallial neurons, a prefrontal cortex (PFC)-like area, a dense dopaminergic innervation of association areas, and dynamic neurophysiological fundaments for working memory. These four neural features have convergently evolved and may therefore represent 'hard to replace' mechanisms enabling complex cognition.}, }
@article {pmid38084754, year = {2024}, author = {Forbes, SL and Kjorlien, Y and Watson, CJ}, title = {The taphonomic impact of scavenger guilds in peri-urban and rural regions of central and southern Alberta. Part I - Identification of forensically relevant vertebrate scavengers.}, journal = {Journal of forensic sciences}, volume = {69}, number = {2}, pages = {415-429}, doi = {10.1111/1556-4029.15443}, pmid = {38084754}, issn = {1556-4029}, support = {RGPIN/6098/2019]//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; C150-2017-12//The Canada 150 Research Chair in Forensic Thanatology/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; Alberta ; *Body Remains ; Vertebrates ; Feeding Behavior ; Birds ; Fishes ; *Ursidae ; }, abstract = {As a body decomposes in an outdoor environment, numerous taphonomic agents can act on the process of human decomposition. It is important to understand the impact of these agents as they can vary the rate of soft and hard tissue loss which may alter postmortem interval estimations. One taphonomic factor which has not been extensively investigated in many regions of the world, including Canada, are vertebrate scavengers. The current study aimed to identify scavenger guilds in the peri-urban and rural regions of two major cities in Alberta (Calgary and Edmonton) where human remains are frequently located. Vertebrate scavenger activity was recorded continuously using cellular and noncellular trail cameras. Images were analyzed to determine how the scavenging profiles (i.e., scavenger species, arrival time, and feeding behavior) impacted the loss of soft and hard tissue. We identified a range of mammalian and avian scavengers and found that coyote and black-billed magpie were the predominant scavengers recorded at the Edmonton peri-urban and rural sites, and the Calgary peri-urban sites. In contrast, when a site was within bear territory such as the Calgary rural sites, black and grizzly bears were the predominant scavengers. At all sites, the large mammalian scavengers were responsible for most soft tissue loss and subsequent hard tissue dispersal. None of the scavengers demonstrated a clear preference for open versus closed sites. This taphonomic information is important to consider when searching for human remains at these locations or in other North American regions with comparable scavenger guilds.}, }
@article {pmid38081798, year = {2023}, author = {Shaiek, A and Monot, M and Rubert, V and Cornillon, C and Vicic, M and Decocq, G and Flament, F}, title = {Applications of the new Aeva-HE™ imaging system: Its link with the visual evaluation of facial wrinkles and its potential in screening tensile products.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {29}, number = {12}, pages = {e13512}, pmid = {38081798}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Cheek ; *Cosmetics ; Face/diagnostic imaging ; *Skin Aging ; White People ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To evaluate, in vivo, a recently developed imaging system (Aeva-HE™), based on fringe projection methodology: (i) its correlation with expert's assessments and real age of 85 French Caucasian women and (ii) its potential, as a screening tool, in rapidly selecting prototypes of tensile cosmetic products.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: First, the bare faces of 85 differently aged French/Caucasian women were photographed under standard conditions and further analyzed by the Aeva-HE&#x2122; device. An expert aesthetician graded the severity of wrinkling on a fixed scale, helped by the use of a dedicated Skin Aging Atlas. A panel of 15 judges performed the same task on full-face standard photographs. The Aeva-HE&#x2122; software yielded various wrinkle's parameters (density, volume, mean depth, etc.) on different facial locations, according to age-groups. Second, seven women, balanced in age and wrinkling severity, were recruited in a separate study. These women applied at Day 1 a prototype of the tensile product and at Day 2, they applied another prototype of the tensile product. The whole faces (before and after products application) of the seven studied women were captured and analyzed by the Aeva-HE&#x2122; system.<br><br>RESULTS: The density of wrinkles was significantly highly correlated with the aesthetician scores and, unsurprisingly, with age. Some parameters (volume, depths) of different wrinkles (glabellar, crow's feet, cheeks) were quantified, showing different absolute values and of statistically different progressions with age. The amplitudes of the rapid effects brought by the two prototypes of tensile products were clearly differentiated.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The recently developed device&#xa0;Aeva-HE&#x2122; is an efficient system for rapidly establishing a faithful and precise status of facial wrinkles, in vivo and seems like a precious tool in the rapid screening of tensile products, possibly performed on a rather limited number of subjects.}, }
@article {pmid38081583, year = {2024}, author = {Anand, S and Reddy, RV and Omoba, OE and Detchou, D and Barrie, U and Aoun, SG}, title = {Maxine Deborrah Hyde: First Female Graduate of Case Western Reserve University's Neurologic Surgery Residency Program and Second Black Female Neurosurgeon in the United States.}, journal = {World neurosurgery}, volume = {183}, number = {}, pages = {63-69}, doi = {10.1016/j.wneu.2023.12.021}, pmid = {38081583}, issn = {1878-8769}, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; United States ; Neurosurgeons ; *Internship and Residency ; Universities ; Neurosurgical Procedures ; *Neurosurgery/education ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The historical diversity gap in the neurosurgical workforce persists to this day. Women, despite constituting over half of the yearly total of medical school graduates, comprise only 6% of certified practicing neurosurgeons in the United States. Furthermore, Black Americans make up under 4% of U.S. neurosurgeons, despite making up around 14% of the national population. The purpose of this account is to highlight the life and career of Dr. Maxine Deborrah Hyde and illustrate the importance and necessity of diversity and inclusivity in advancing the field of neurosurgery. Through this paper, we aspire to encourage the development of new diversity initiatives.<br><br>METHODS: Original scientific and bibliographic materials of Hyde were examined, and an extensive analysis of her life was compiled.<br><br>RESULTS: Despite growing up during the era of Jim Crow, Dr. Hyde persevered and became the valedictorian of Oak Park High School. As a first-generation college student at Tougaloo College, she later earned her MS from Cleveland State University. Dr. Hyde graduated with honors from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in 1977. Thereafter, she became the first female and first Black graduate of Case Western's neurosurgery residency and the second Black woman to receive certification from the American Board of Neurological Surgery. Later in life, Dr. Hyde established the Beacon of Hope Scholarship Foundation to assist disadvantaged students in overcoming educational barriers.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Dr. Hyde was a trailblazer who overcame systematic barriers and paved the way for future generations of aspiring neurosurgeons.}, }
@article {pmid38078562, year = {2024}, author = {Trapote, E and Moreno-González, V and Canestrari, D and Rutz, C and Baglione, V}, title = {Fitness benefits of alternated chick provisioning in cooperatively breeding carrion crows.}, journal = {The Journal of animal ecology}, volume = {93}, number = {1}, pages = {95-108}, doi = {10.1111/1365-2656.14033}, pmid = {38078562}, issn = {1365-2656}, support = {CGL2016-77636-P//Spanish Ministerio de Econom&#xed;a y Competitividad/ ; //SEO-Birdlife Research to ET/ ; BB/S018484/1//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Crows ; Cooperative Behavior ; *Songbirds ; Breeding ; Nesting Behavior ; }, abstract = {In most bird species, parents raise offspring cooperatively. In some cases, this cooperation extends to helpers-at-the-nest who assist the breeders with a range of tasks. While cooperative food provisioning might merely arise incidentally, as a result of the efforts of carers that act independently from each other, recent studies suggest that birds may coordinate by taking turns in visiting the nest. However, evidence that such coordination emerges because individuals actively respond to each other's behaviour is controversial, and the potential benefits of carers' alternation remain unknown. We addressed this knowledge gap by analysing a multiyear dataset for cooperatively breeding carrion crows Corvus corone, comprising 8693 nest visits across 50 groups. Our results reveal that turn-taking does occur in this species and that all group members, regardless of their sex and social role (breeder/helper), tend to alternate at the nest with other carers rather than to make repeat visits. Importantly, we found that the body mass of nestlings increased significantly with the degree of carers' alternation, possibly because well-coordinated groups provided food at more regular intervals. Using earlier monitoring data, the observed increase in body mass is predicted to substantially boost postfledging survival rates. Our analyses demonstrate that alternation in nestling provisioning has measurable fitness benefits in this study system. This raises the possibility that cooperatively breeding carrion crows, as well as other bird species with similarly coordinated brood provisioning, exhibit specialized behavioural strategies that enable effective alternation.}, }
@article {pmid38072820, year = {2024}, author = {Bracken, A and Hauss, J and Grinshpun, S and Lasc, D and Hershkovich, A and Yang, Y}, title = {A profile of spatial abilities in people with Down syndrome.}, journal = {Journal of intellectual disability research : JIDR}, volume = {68}, number = {3}, pages = {223-236}, pmid = {38072820}, issn = {1365-2788}, support = {SC2 HD103587/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; SC2HD103587/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Humans ; Young Adult ; Aptitude ; Cognition ; *Down Syndrome/psychology ; *Spatial Navigation ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Spatial abilities are fundamental cognitive abilities, have direct applications in daily life, serve as a cognitive foundation for many other complex skills and are used in many specialty jobs. The current study aimed to systematically and comprehensively evaluate the spatial abilities of individuals with Down syndrome (DS) relative to mental ability-matched typically developing (TD) children based on Newcombe and Shipley's double-dimension theoretical framework for classifying spatial abilities.<br><br>METHODS: Forty adolescents and young adults with DS and 40 TD children completed a nonverbal intelligence test (Raven's), two measures of static-extrinsic skills (water-level task and cart task), two measures of static-intrinsic skills (figure ground and form completion), two measures of dynamic-extrinsic skills (three mountains task and dog task) and two measures of dynamic-intrinsic spatial skills (mental rotation task and block design task).<br><br>RESULTS: Participants with DS showed reduced performance on two dynamic-intrinsic tasks and one static-extrinsic task (i.e. cart task) relative to TD children. Performances were similar in two dynamic-extrinsic tasks and two static-intrinsic tasks. Analyses of composite accuracy for each spatial category further confirmed deficits in dynamic-intrinsic and static-extrinsic categories for people with DS relative to TD children.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed an uneven profile of spatial abilities in people with DS relative to ability-matched TD children with particular weaknesses in comprehending and manipulating dynamic-intrinsic and static-extrinsic spatial relations. Furthermore, our research has important clinical implications for more targeted interventions to improve spatial abilities in people with DS.}, }
@article {pmid38071961, year = {2023}, author = {Kálmán, M and Sebők, OM}, title = {Entopallium Lost GFAP Immunoreactivity during Avian Evolution: Is GFAP a "Condition Sine Qua Non"?.}, journal = {Brain, behavior and evolution}, volume = {98}, number = {6}, pages = {302-313}, pmid = {38071961}, issn = {1421-9743}, mesh = {Animals ; *Columbidae ; Coturnix ; Phylogeny ; Pica ; Chickens ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The present study demonstrates that in the same brain area the astroglia can express GFAP (the main cytoskeletal protein of astroglia) in some species but not in the others of the same vertebrate class. It contrasts the former opinions that the distribution of GFAP found in a species is characteristic of the entire class. The present study investigated birds in different phylogenetic positions: duck (Cairina moschata domestica), chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus), and quails (Coturnix japonica and Excalfactoria chinensis) of Galloanserae; pigeon (Columba livia domestica) of a group of Neoaves, in comparison with representatives of other Neoaves lineages, which emerged more recently in evolution: finches (Taeniopygia guttata and Erythrura gouldiae), magpie (Pica pica), and parrots (Melopsittacus undulatus and Nymphicus hollandicus).<br><br>METHODS: Following a perfusion with 4% buffered paraformaldehyde, immunoperoxidase reactions were performed with two types of anti-GFAP: monoclonal and polyclonal, on floating sections.<br><br>RESULTS: The entopallium (formerly "ectostriatum," a telencephalic area in birds) was GFAP-immunopositive in pigeon and in the representatives of Galloanserae but not in songbirds and parrots, which emerged more recently in evolution. The lack of GFAP expression of a brain area, however, does not mean the lack of astroglia. Lesions induced GFAP expression in the territory of GFAP-immunonegative entopallia. It proved that the GFAP immunonegativity is not due to the lack of capability, but rather the suppression of GFAP production of the astrocytes in this territory. In the other areas investigated besides the entopallium (optic tectum and cerebellum), no considerable interspecific differences of GFAP immunopositivity were found. It proved that the immunonegativity of entopallium is due to neither the general lack of GFAP expression nor the incapability of our reagents to detect GFAP in these species.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The data are congruent with our proposal that a lack of GFAP expression has evolved in different brain areas in vertebrate evolution, typically in lineages that emerged more recently. Comparative studies on GFAP-immunopositive and GFAP-immunonegative entopallia may promote understanding the role of GFAP in neural networks.}, }
@article {pmid38062030, year = {2023}, author = {Jo, H and McCune, KB and Jablonski, PG and Lee, SI}, title = {Long-term memory of experienced jays facilitates problem-solving by naïve group members in the wild.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {21593}, pmid = {38062030}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Songbirds ; Problem Solving ; Memory, Long-Term ; Mental Recall ; }, abstract = {Long-term memory affects animal fitness, especially in social species. In these species, the memory of group members facilitates the acquisition of novel foraging skills through social learning when naïve individuals observe and imitate the successful foraging behavior. Long-term memory and social learning also provide the framework for cultural behavior, a trait found in humans but very few other animal species. In birds, little is known about the duration of long-term memories for complex foraging skills, or the impact of long-term memory on group members. We tested whether wild jays remembered a complex foraging task more than 3 years after their initial experience and quantified the effect of this memory on naïve jay behavior. Experienced jays remembered how to solve the task and their behavior had significant positive effects on interactions by naïve group members at the task. This suggests that natural selection may favor long-term memory of solutions to foraging problems to facilitate the persistence of foraging skills that are specifically useful in the local environment in social birds with long lifespans and overlapping generations.}, }
@article {pmid38059964, year = {2024}, author = {Gonthier, C and Harma, K and Gavornikova-Baligand, Z}, title = {Development of reasoning performance in Raven's matrices is grounded in the development of effective strategy use.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. General}, volume = {153}, number = {3}, pages = {689-705}, doi = {10.1037/xge0001518}, pmid = {38059964}, issn = {1939-2222}, support = {//City of Rennes/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Child ; Humans ; *Problem Solving ; *Cognition ; Intelligence Tests ; Memory, Short-Term ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {Performance in reasoning tasks such as Raven's matrices experiences a dramatic increase over cognitive development, but the mechanisms responsible for this increase are unknown. Many cognitive processes are involved in a matrix task and could potentially change with age; strategy use appears to be a good candidate, as it typically improves over development and has a large impact on reasoning performance in adults. The present study tested the role of effective strategy use in Raven's standard progressive matrices in groups of 6-, 8-, 10-, 12-, 14-, 16-, and 18-year-olds (total N = 474). Strategy use was assessed with behavioral measures of gaze patterns in Raven's matrices. We also measured working memory capacity (WMC), a good predictor of strategy use in adults, using a battery of complex spans. The results showed that the effective strategy of constructive matching substantially increased with age, along with performance. Strategy use mediated over half the effect of age on reasoning performance. Older participants were also better at adapting strategy use to difficulty of the problems. Effective strategy use was beneficial to the same extent for participants of all ages. Age-related improvements in strategy use occurred in tandem with improvements in WMC, but did not appear to be primarily driven by them. Overall, our results indicate that strategy use is a critical underpinning of reasoning performance in children as well as in adults, and that theories of cognitive development of reasoning have to consider the central role of strategy use. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid38055711, year = {2023}, author = {Miller, R and Davies, JR and Schiestl, M and Garcia-Pelegrin, E and Gray, RD and Taylor, AH and Clayton, NS}, title = {Social influences on delayed gratification in New Caledonian crows and Eurasian jays.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {18}, number = {12}, pages = {e0289197}, pmid = {38055711}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Adult ; Humans ; *Crows ; *Delay Discounting ; Feeding Behavior ; *Songbirds ; *Passeriformes ; Reward ; }, abstract = {Self-control underlies goal-directed behaviour in humans and other animals. Delayed gratification - a measure of self-control - requires the ability to tolerate delays and/or invest more effort to obtain a reward of higher value over one of lower value, such as food or mates. Social context, in particular, the presence of competitors, may influence delayed gratification. We adapted the 'rotating-tray' paradigm, where subjects need to forgo an immediate, lower-quality (i.e. less preferred) reward for a delayed, higher-quality (i.e. more preferred) one, to test social influences on delayed gratification in two corvid species: New Caledonian crows and Eurasian jays. We compared choices for immediate vs. delayed rewards while alone, in the presence of a competitive conspecific and in the presence of a non-competitive conspecific. We predicted that, given the increased risk of losing a reward with a competitor present, both species would similarly, flexibly alter their choices in the presence of a conspecific compared to when alone. We found that species differed: jays were more likely to select the immediate, less preferred reward than the crows. We also found that jays were more likely to select the immediate, less preferred reward when a competitor or non-competitor was present than when alone, or when a competitor was present compared to a non-competitor, while the crows selected the delayed, highly preferred reward irrespective of social presence. We discuss our findings in relation to species differences in socio-ecological factors related to adult sociality and food-caching (storing). New Caledonian crows are more socially tolerant and moderate cachers, while Eurasian jays are highly territorial and intense cachers that may have evolved under the social context of cache pilfering and cache protection strategies. Therefore, flexibility (or inflexibility) in delay of gratification under different social contexts may relate to the species' social tolerance and related risk of competition.}, }
@article {pmid38050565, year = {2023}, author = {Seyyed Hashemi, SF and Tehrani-Doost, M and Khosrowabadi, R}, title = {The Brain Networks Basis for Deductive and Inductive Reasoning: A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study.}, journal = {Basic and clinical neuroscience}, volume = {14}, number = {4}, pages = {529-542}, pmid = {38050565}, issn = {2008-126X}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Frontoparietal (FPN) and cingulo-opercular network (CON) control cognitive functions needed in deductive and inductive reasoning via different functional frameworks. The FPN is a fast intuitive system while the CON is slow and analytical. The default-interventionist model presents a serial view of the interaction between intuitive and analytic cognitive systems. This study aims to examine the activity pattern of the FPN and CON from the perspective of the default-interventionist model via reasoning.<br><br>METHODS: We employed functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate cingulo-opercular and frontoparietal network activities in 24 healthy university students during Raven and Wason reasoning tasks. Due to the different operation times of the CON and FPN, the reaction time was assessed as a behavioral factor.<br><br>RESULTS: During Raven's advanced progressive matrices (RAPM) test, both the CON and FPN were activated. Also, with the increase in the difficulty level of the Raven test, a linear increase in response time was observed. In contrast, during the Wason's selection task (WST) test, only the activity of FPN was observed.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results of the study support the hypothesis that the default-interventionist model of dual-process theory provides an accurate explanation of the cognitive mechanisms involved in reasoning. Thus, the response method (intuitive/analytical) determines which cognitive skills and brain regions are involved in responding.<br><br>HIGHLIGHTS: The cingulo-opercular and fronto-parietal networks (FPNs) control cognitive functions and processes.The frontoparietal network is a fast intuitive system that utilizes short-time attention which is compatible with type 1 processing. In contrast, the cingulo-opercular network (CON) is an analytical time-consuming system that utilizes attention and working memory for a longer time, compatible with type 2 processing.The default-interventionist model of a dual-process theory states that our behaviors are controlled by type 1 processing unless we are confronted with novel and complex problems in which we have no prior experiences.<br><br>PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: The present study examined the activity of two task-based brain networks through performing diffrent type of reasoning tasks. Fronto-parietal and Cingulo-opercular are the two task-based brain networks that are responsible for cognitive control. These two brain networks direct the way to use cognitive skills and executive functions which are necessary to perform cognitive tasks especially higher-order ones as reasoning tasks. Since the two types of inductive and deductive reasoning tasks requier two different bottom-up and top-down cognitive control respectively, different cognitive skills would be needed which affect the activity of fronto-parietal and cingulo-opercular brain networks. Our results showed that through inductive reasoning task which examined by RAVEN, both of the fronto-parietal and cingulo-opercular brain networks were activated but deductive reasoning task which examined by Wason Selection Card test, just the fronto-parietal brain network was activated. It seems that in the case of deductive reasoninf task, there is a higher probability of errors which lead to giving less correct responses. Based on our results, subjects paid not enough attention to details, so had failure to update informations that leaded to responding with errors. Inactivity of cingulo-opercular network through dedeuctive reasoning task clearly showed that the bottom-up cognitive control did not happen successfully. As a result of that, information processing did not proceed properly.}, }
@article {pmid38046123, year = {2023}, author = {Srivastava, P and Jaarsveld, S and Sangani, K}, title = {Verbal-analytical rather than visuo-spatial Raven's puzzle solving favors Raven's-like puzzle generation.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1205056}, pmid = {38046123}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Raven's advanced progressive matrices (APM) comprise two types of representational codes, namely visuo-spatial and verbal-analytical, that are used to solve APM puzzles. Studies using analytical, behavioral, and imaging methods have supported the multidimensional perspectives of APM puzzles. The visuo-spatial code is expected to recruit operations more responsive to the visual perception tasks. In contrast, the verbal-analytical code is expected to use operations more responsive to the logical reasoning task and may entail different cognitive strategies. Acknowledging different representational codes used in APM puzzle-solving is critical for a better understanding of APM's performance and their relationship with other tasks, especially creative reasoning. We used the eye-tracking method to investigate the role of two representational codes, visuo-spatial and verbal-analytical, in strategies involved in solving APM puzzles and in generating an APM-like puzzle by using a creative-reasoning task (CRT). Participants took longer time to complete the verbal-analytical than visuo-spatial puzzles. In addition, visuo-analytical than visual-spatial puzzles showed higher progressive and regressive saccade counts, suggesting the use of more response elimination than constructive matching strategies employed while solving verbal-analytical than visuo-spatial puzzles. We observed higher CRT scores when it followed verbal-analytical (Mdn = 84) than visuo-spatial (Mdn = 73) APM puzzles, suggesting puzzle-solving specific strategies affect puzzle-creating task performance. The advantage of verbal-analytical over visuo-spatial puzzle-solving has been discussed in light of shared cognitive processing between APM puzzle-solving and APM-like puzzle-creating task performance.}, }
@article {pmid38041323, year = {2023}, author = {Lim, MG and Park, YJ and Choi, DJ and Kim, DU and Hong, MS and Her, MJ and Takabayashi, AY and Jeong, Y and Park, J and Han, S and Quack, N and Bae, Y and Yu, K and Han, S}, title = {Fully reconfigurable MEMS-based second-order coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) with ultra-low tuning energy.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {31}, number = {24}, pages = {40166-40178}, doi = {10.1364/OE.505295}, pmid = {38041323}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {Integrated microring resonators are well suited for wavelength-filtering applications in optical signal processing, and cascaded microring resonators allow flexible filter design in coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) configurations. However, the implementation of high-order cascaded microring resonators with high extinction ratios (ERs) remains challenging owing to stringent fabrication requirements and the need for precise resonator tunability. We present a fully integrated on-chip second-order CROW filter using silicon photonic microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) to adjust tunable directional couplers and a phase shifter using nanoscale mechanical out-of-plane waveguide displacement. The filter can be fully reconfigured with regard to both the ER and center wavelength. We experimentally demonstrated an ER exceeding 25 dB and continuous wavelength tuning across the full free spectral range of 0.123 nm for single microring resonator, and showed reconfigurability in second-order CROW by tuning the ER and resonant wavelength. The tuning energy for an individual silicon photonic MEMS phase shifter or tunable coupler is less than 22 pJ with sub-microwatt static power consumption, which is far better than conventional integrated phase shifters based on other physical modulation mechanisms.}, }
@article {pmid39867504, year = {2023}, author = {Zhang, J and Cong, Q and Grishin, NV}, title = {Descriptions of one hundred new species of Hesperiidae.}, journal = {Insecta mundi}, volume = {1026}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {39867504}, issn = {0749-6737}, support = {R35 GM127390/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {A century and a half since the time of Hewitson, we are experiencing a renaissance in species discovery fueled by whole genome sequencing. A large-scale genomic analysis of Hesperiidae Latreille, 1809 (Lepidoptera), including primary type specimens, reveals a deluge of species new to science. One hundred of them (one in a new genus) are described here from the New World (type localities are given in parenthesis): Drephalys (Drephalys) diovalis Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Napo), Euriphellus panador Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Esmeraldas), Euriphellus panamicus Grishin, new species (Panama: Panama), Cecropterus (Thorybes) viridissimus Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Zamora-Chinchipe), Cecropterus (Murgaria) dariensis Grishin, new species (Panama: Darien), Urbanus (Urbanus) mericuti Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Napo), Telegonus (Telegonus) pastus Grishin, new species (Panama: Panama), Autochton (Autochton) dora Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Pastaza), Astraptes centralis Grishin, new species (Panama: Colón), Aguna claxonica Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Napo), Aguna esmeralda Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Esmeraldas), Aguna lata Grishin, new species (Guyana), Ridens angulinea Grishin, new species (Peru: Cuzco), Pythonides lera Grishin, new species (Peru: Cuzco), Pythonides latemarginatus Grishin, new species (Panama: Panama), Gindanes variegatus Grishin, new species (Brazil: Mato Grosso), Milanion (Milanion) virga Grishin, new species (Brazil: Rondônia), Milanion (Milanion) furvus Grishin, new species (Panama: Panama), Milanion (Milanion) laricus Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Napo), Charidia ronda Grishin, new species (Brazil: Rondônia), Pseudodrephalys tinas Grishin, new species (Peru: Loreto), Pseudodrephalys argus Grishin, new species (Suriname: Para), Achlyodes calvus Grishin, new species (Brazil: Santa Catarina), Spioniades artemis Grishin, new species (Panama: Panama), Spioniades artemidoides Grishin, new species (Brazil: Santa Catarina), Myrinia orieca Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Orellana), Myrinia aragua Grishin, new species (Venezuela: Aragua), Myrinia maculosa Grishin, new species (Guatemala), Myrinia manchada Grishin, new species (Guyana), Polyctor (Fenops) lamperus Grishin, new species (Panama: Darien), Nisoniades (Nisoniades) lutum Grishin, new species (Mexico: Guerrero.), Bolla (Stolla) vena Grishin, new species (Venezuela: Aragua), Staphylus (Vulga) vula Grishin, new species (Mexico: Veracruz), Staphylus (Vulga) vulga Grishin, new species (Panama: Darien), Staphylus (Staphylus) rotundalus Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Napo), Staphylus (Staphylus) yucatanus Grishin, new species (Mexico: Quintana Roo/Yucatan), Heliopetes (Heliopetes) lana Grishin, new species (Guatemala), Canesia ella Grishin, new species (Venezuela: Barinas), Paches (Paches) loxeca Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Morona-Santiago), Clito congruens Grishin, new species (Panama: Colón), Cycloglypha corax Grishin, new species (Brazil: Rio de Janeiro), Festivia peruvia Grishin, new species (Peru: Huánuco), Decinea notata Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Napo), Pompeius fuscus Grishin, new species (Brazil: Minas Gerais), Vernia clara Grishin, new species (Panama: Chiriquí), Oligoria (Oligoria) obtena Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Napo), Thespieus mandal Grishin, new species (Brazil: Rio de Janeiro), Psoralis (Saniba) magnamacus Grishin, new species (Panama: Darien), Alychna ayonis Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Napo), Wahydra banios Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Tungurahua), Wahydra cuzcona Grishin, new species (Peru: Cuzco), Cynea (Cynea) aureofimbra Grishin, new species (Ecuador), Cynea (Nycea) quada Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Napo), Cynea (Quinta) achirae Grishin, new species (Mexico: Tamaulipas), Eutus amazonicus Grishin, new species (Peru: Madre de Dios), Eutus incus Grishin, new species (Peru: Cuzco), Eutus septemaculatus Grishin, new species (Brazil: Mato Grosso), Godmia viridicapita Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Napo), Rhomba pulla Grishin, new species (Peru: Cuzco), Niconiades victoria Grishin, new species (Mexico: Tamaulipas), Lancephallus purpurus Grishin, new genus and new species (Guyana), Mnasicles (Remella) ecua Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Pichincha), Amblyscirtes (Amblyscirtes) aeratus Grishin, new species (Mexico: Oaxaca), Amblyscirtes (Mastor) chrysoplea Grishin, new species (Mexico: Oaxaca), Amblyscirtes (Mastor) chrysomisa Grishin, new species (Mexico: Chiapas), Amblyscirtes (Flor) meridus Grishin, new species (Mexico: Veracruz), Rectava chiriquensis Grishin, new species (Panama: Chiriquí), Cobalopsis adictys Grishin, new species (Panama: Veraguas), Cymaenes melaporphyrus Grishin, new species (Mexico: San Luis Potosí), Lerema (Morys) ecuadorica Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Pichincha), Saturnus obscurior Grishin, new species (Panama: Darien), Cantha zoirodicta Grishin, new species (Peru: Madre de Dios), Cantha meiodicta Grishin, new species (Peru: Madre de Dios), Phlebodes duplex Grishin, new species (Guatemala: Cayuga), Lychnuchus (Enosis) valle Grishin, new species (Colombia: Valle), Eutychide ochoides Grishin, new species (Peru: Cuzco), Dion bora Grishin, new species (Panama: Darien), Dion occida Grishin, new species (Peru: Madre de Dios), Eprius (Eprius) veledinus Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Pichincha), Radiatus panamensis Grishin, new species (Panama: Panama), Pheraeus pulcher Grishin, new species (Peru: Madre de Dios), Callimormus rades Grishin, new species (Panama: Panama), Gubrus lubens Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Loja), Ludens labens Grishin, new species (Panama: Darien), Rigga isa Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Napo), Flaccilla lactea Grishin, new species (Peru: Cuzco), Falga athena Grishin, new species (Panama: Darien), Panoquina jay Grishin, new species (Peru: Loreto), Calpodes salianus Grishin, new species (Peru: Madre de Dios), Calpodes stingo Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Sucumbíos), Aides nobra Grishin, new species (Panama: Colón), Thracides pavo Grishin, new species (Mexico: Tabasco), Talides eluta Grishin, new species (Peru: Cuzco), Talides laeta Grishin, new species (Peru: Cuzco), Neoxeniades angustior Grishin, new species (Brazil: Rio de Janeiro), Damas zea Grishin, new species (Guyana), Tromba xantha Grishin, new species (Mexico: Veracruz), Perichares fura Grishin, new species (Ecuador: Pichincha), Carystoides (Balma) goliath Grishin, new species (Colombia: Valle), and Agathymus galeana Grishin, new species (Mexico: Nuevo Leon). Additionally, we present evidence to support 22 taxa as species (not subspecies or synonyms) and synonymize one genus and four species. Namely, the following taxa are species: Milanion pilta Evans, 1953 (not Milanion pilumnus Mabille and Boullet, 1917), Milanion latior Mabille and Boullet, 1917 (not a synonym of Milanion marciana Godman and Salvin, 1895), Charidia pilea Evans, 1953, and Charidia pocus Evans, 1953 (not Charidia lucaria (Hewitson, 1868)), Paches (Paches) gloriosus Röber, 1925 and Paches (Paches) loxana Evans, 1953 (not Paches (Paches) loxus (Westwood, 1852)), Spioniades anta Evans, 1953 (not Spioniades abbreviata (Mabille, 1888)), Decinea onasima (Hewitson, 1877) and Decinea formosus (Hayward, 1940) (not Decinea dama (Herrich-Schäffer, 1869)), Thespieus guerreronis (Dyar, 1913) (not Thespieus dalman (Latreille, [1824])), Cynea (Nycea) erebina (Möschler, 1879) and Cynea (Nycea) cleochares (Mabille, 1891) (not Cynea (Cynea) diluta (Herrich-Schäffer, 1869)), Amblyscirtes (Mastor) repta Evans, 1955 (not Amblyscirtes (Flor) florus (Godman, 1900)), Saturnus tiberius (Möschler, 1883), Saturnus conspicuus (E. Bell, 1941), Saturnus meton (Mabille, 1891), and Saturnus obscurus (E. Bell, 1941) (not Saturnus reticulata (Plötz, 1883)), Phlebodes sifax Evans, 1955 (not Phlebodes campo (E. Bell, 1947)), Eutychide ochus Godman, 1900 and Eutychide rogersi (Kaye, 1914) (not a subspecies and a synonym, respectively, of Eutychide subcordata (Herrich-Schäffer, 1869)), Falga mirabilis Evans, 1955, Falga jacta Evans, 1955, and Falga ombra Evans, 1955 (not Falga jeconia (A. Butler, 1870)); and the following taxa are junior subjective synonyms: Libra Evans, 1955 (of Phemiades Hübner, [1819]), Papilio clito Fabricius, 1787 of Milanion hemes hemes (Cramer, 1777), Pamphila hycsos Mabille, 1891 of Cynea (Nycea) erebina (Möschler, 1879), Hesperia olympia Plötz, 1882 of Eutychide subcordata (Herrich-Schäffer, 1869), and Hesperia ocrinus Plötz, 1882 of Aides aegita (Hewitson, 1866). Furthermore, we propose new combinations for genus-species: Lychnuchus (Enosis) ponka (Evans, 1955) (not Thoon Godman, 1900), and species-subspecies: Charidia pocus mayo Evans, 1953 (not Charidia lucaria (Hewitson, 1868)), Decinea onasima boliviensis (E. Bell, 1930) (not Decinea dama (Herrich-Schäffer, 1869)), Cynea (Nycea) erebina somba Evans, 1955 (not Pamphila hycsos Mabille, 1891), Saturnus tiberius suffuscus (Hayward, 1940) (not Saturnus reticulata (Plötz, 1883)), and Falga mirabilis odol Evans, 1955 (not Falga jeconia (A. Butler, 1870)). Then, Milanion pilumnus var. hemestinus Mabille and Boullet, 1917 is a junior subjective synonym of Milanion pilumnus pilumnus Mabille and Boullet, 1917, not of Milanion leucaspis (Mabille, 1878). Lectotypes are designated for nine taxa (names in original combinations below): Pellicia bromias Godman and Salvin, 1894 (Mexico: Veracruz, Atoyac), Nisoniades perforata Möschler, 1879 (Colombia), Helias ascalaphus Staudinger, 1876 (central Panama), Pamphila hycsos Mabille, 1891 (Colombia), Amblyscirtes fluonia Godman, 1900 (Mexico: Guerrero, Xocomanatlan), Mastor anubis Godman, 1900 (Mexico: Guerrero, Omiltemi), Eutychide ochus Godman, 1900 (Mexico: Veracruz, Atoyac), Cobalus subcordata Herrich-Schäffer, 1869 (Southeast Brazil), and Thracides xanthura Godman, 1901 (Panama: Chiriquí Province, Bugaba). A neotype is designated for Eudamus briccius Plötz, 1881 (Guyana: Iwokrama Forest).}, }
@article {pmid38035126, year = {2024}, author = {Brin, MF and De Boulle, K and Liew, S and Carruthers, A and Carruthers, J and Rivkin, A and Wu, Y and Kawashima, M and Yushmanova, I and Boodhoo, TI and Lee, E}, title = {Safety and tolerability of onabotulinumtoxinA in the treatment of upper facial lines from global registration studies in 5298 participants: A meta-analysis.}, journal = {JAAD international}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {4-18}, pmid = {38035126}, issn = {2666-3287}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Since its discovery as a facial aesthetic treatment >30 years ago, onabotulinumtoxinA has received worldwide approval for dynamic upper facial line treatment.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: Meta-analysis examining the safety of onabotulinumtoxinA for treatment of glabellar lines (GL), crow's feet lines (CFL), and forehead lines (FHL).<br><br>METHODS: Participants (N&#xa0;= 5298) with moderate to severe GL, CFL, or FHL at maximum contraction received onabotulinumtoxinA or placebo in 1 of 18 registration studies (14 double-blind, placebo-controlled [DBPC]; 1 double-blind; 3 open-label). Adverse events (AEs) were analyzed by descriptive statistics and fixed-effects meta-analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: In the overall double-blind placebo-controlled (DBPC) population, AEs were reported in 1443 (42.1%) and 486 (35.8%) participants in the onabotulinumtoxinA (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;3431) and placebo (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;1359) groups, respectively. Serious AEs were reported in 54 (1.6%) and 17 (1.3%) participants; 1 (spontaneous abortion) was considered possibly treatment related by the investigator. Using fixed-effects statistical meta-analysis, AEs of interest that were found to be statistically higher for onabotulinumtoxinA than placebo in the DBPC population were eyelid ptosis, eyelid sensory disorder, skin tightness, brow ptosis, eyelid edema, and facial pain (P&#xa0;&#x2264;&#xa0;.05).<br><br>LIMITATIONS: Retrospective, ad hoc analysis.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis confirms the onabotulinumtoxinA safety profile for GL, CFL, and FHL treatment, with no new onabotulinumtoxinA-associated AEs.}, }
@article {pmid38031577, year = {2023}, author = {Davis, A and Gourdine, R}, title = {Intersectionality and Social Security Age-18 Redetermination: Reducing the Stress and Trauma of Transition for Black Transition-Age Youth with Disabilities.}, journal = {Child &amp; adolescent social work journal : C &amp; A}, volume = {40}, number = {4}, pages = {513-523}, pmid = {38031577}, issn = {0738-0151}, support = {R61 HD104570/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; T32 HD094687/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Greater attention is being paid to the transition to adulthood for youth with disabilities. We are also at a period of reckoning with the vestiges of slavery, Jim Crow, and a lack of constitutional protections for Black-identifying persons. The contemporary impact of inequitable access to opportunities, services, and supports that would improve the quality of life of racialized Black individuals has added consequences for Black youth with disabilities. A sub-population of youth with disabilities receives monthly support in the form of Supplemental Security Income (SSI), with a disproportionate number of Black-identifying youth qualifying for SSI. Such youth are impacted by the intersectionality of racism, disability, and poverty. The outcome of an SSI age-18 redetermination can be precarious and occurs in the backdrop of these intersectional forces, impacting the life course of racialized Black youth and their families on a scale that is concerning. The authors describe the time frames of pre age-18 redetermination, age-18 redetermination and post age-18 redetermination in the contexts of intersectionality and transition, and articulate what type of services and supports can reduce the experience of chronic stress in the lives of racialized Black youth facing an SSI age-18 redetermination, and thereby improve the outcomes of these youth as they transition to adulthood.}, }
@article {pmid38028983, year = {2023}, author = {Felin Fochesatto, C and Cristi-Montero, C and Ribeiro Bandeira, PF and Brand, C and Dias, AF and Bandeira, DR and Mota, J and Araujo Gaya, AC and Reis Gaya, A}, title = {A network analysis involving mental difficulties, cognition, physical fitness, 24-hour movement components, fatness, and sociodemographic factors in children.}, journal = {Journal of exercise science and fitness}, volume = {21}, number = {4}, pages = {416-423}, pmid = {38028983}, issn = {1728-869X}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Evidence supports the beneficial linear influence of diverse lifestyle behaviors on brain health since childhood; however, multiple behaviors -and not only one-simultaneously affect such outcomes. Therefore, the aim was to explore the multivariate relationship through a network analysis among mental difficulty and cognitive function with physical fitness (PF), 24-h movement components, fatness, and sociodemographic factors in children.<br><br>METHODS: Cross-sectional study involved 226 children (52.2&#xa0;% boys) aged between six and 11 years. Mental difficulties were evaluated through the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and cognitive function by the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices Test. The body mass index and PF were assessed according to the procedures suggested by the Proesp-Br, while moderate-to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) using accelerometry. The socioeconomic level, sleep, and screen time were evaluated by questionnaires. A network analysis was carried out to evaluate the associations among variables and establish centrality measures.<br><br>RESULTS: Age and PF moderated the negative relationship between cognitive function and MVPA. Furthermore, the direct and inverse relationship between cognitive function and mental difficulties appears to be affected by the 24-h movement components. Finally, age, PF, and screen time are the nodes with higher values of expected influence, indicating more sensitivity to interventions for decreasing mental difficulty and improving cognitive function.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Mental health and cognitive function were moderated by the multivariate interaction among age, PF, and the three 24-h movement components. Nonetheless, centrality measures from the network analysis suggest that PF, MVPA, and screen time are crucial nodes in order to implement future interventions.}, }
@article {pmid38024264, year = {2023}, author = {Islam, A and Rahman, MZ and Hassan, MM and Epstein, JH and Klaassen, M}, title = {Determinants for the presence of avian influenza virus in live bird markets in Bangladesh: Towards an easy fix of a looming one health issue.}, journal = {One health (Amsterdam, Netherlands)}, volume = {17}, number = {}, pages = {100643}, pmid = {38024264}, issn = {2352-7714}, abstract = {Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus subtype H5N1 endangers poultry, wildlife, and human health and is enzootic in large parts of Asia, with live bird markets (LBMs) as putative hotspots for their maintenance, amplification, and spread. To mitigate the extent of these and other avian influenza viruses (AIV) of concern, we aimed to increase our quantitative understanding of the factors determining the presence of avian influenza virus in LBM stalls. Between 2016 and 2017, we collected fecal or offal samples from 1008 stalls in 113 LBMs across the Dhaka and Rajshahi districts in Bangladesh. For each stall, samples were pooled and tested for the AIV matrix gene, followed by H5 and H9 subtyping using rRT-PCR. We detected Influenza A viral RNA in 49% of the stalls. Of the AIV positive samples, 52% and 24% were determined to be H5 and H9 viruses, respectively, which are both subtypes of considerable health concern. We used generalized linear mixed effect modelling to study AIV presence in individual stalls within LBMs as a function of 13 out of the 20 risk factors identified by FAO. We found that small and feasible improvements in cleaning and disinfection frequency, installing running water in stalls, and not mixing different breeds of chicken in the same cages had large impacts on the presence of AIV in stalls (Odds ratios 0.03-0.05). Next, cleaning vehicles used in poultry transport, not selling waterfowl with chickens in the same stall, buying stock directly from commercial farms, separating sick birds from healthy ones, and avoiding access by wild birds like house crows, also had major effects on lowering the risk of stalls having AIV (Odds ratios 0.16-0.33). These findings can be directly used in developing practical and affordable measures to reduce the prevalence of AIV in LBMs. Also, in settings with limited resources like Bangladesh, such mitigation may significantly contribute to reducing AIV circulation amongst poultry and spillover to wildlife and humans.}, }
@article {pmid38016972, year = {2023}, author = {Rolando, A and Basso, C and Brunelli, N and Bocca, M and Laini, A}, title = {The foraging ecology of yellow-billed and red- billed choughs changed between two climatically different years.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {20908}, pmid = {38016972}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; *Ecosystem ; *Passeriformes ; Ecology ; Homing Behavior ; Italy ; }, abstract = {Climate change is affecting the alpine ecosystem at an unprecedented rate, with marked changes in spring phenology and the elevation distribution of birds. Changes in the European Alps are happening rapidly, and it is possible behaviours stand to change from one year to the next. The year 2022 was characterised by climatic extremes: Italy experienced its hottest year ever, and it was the driest since 1800. Here, we assessed whether the foraging ecology of two coexisting upland bird species, the yellow-billed and the red-billed chough, changed from 2021 to 2022. We assessed foraging stay times, flock size, propensity to mixed flocking, foraging home ranges and altitudinal distribution. Stay times of both species when foraging in monospecific flocks significantly shortened in 2022, especially in the case of the red-billed chough. The two corvids are known to influence each other when foraging together. In 2021, as expected, the stay times of the red-billed chough decreased when in the presence of the congener, but this did not occur in 2022. Instead, the yellow-billed chough increased its altitudinal foraging distribution in 2022. The results are in line with the hypothesis that large climate variations may disrupt the foraging ecology of mountain birds. However, as it is not possible to draw solid conclusions from just two years of observations, further field research will have to be planned in the future.}, }
@article {pmid38002488, year = {2023}, author = {Parameshwaran, D and Thiagarajan, TC}, title = {High Variability Periods in the EEG Distinguish Cognitive Brain States.}, journal = {Brain sciences}, volume = {13}, number = {11}, pages = {}, pmid = {38002488}, issn = {2076-3425}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To describe a novel measure of EEG signal variability that distinguishes cognitive brain states.<br><br>METHOD: We describe a novel characterization of amplitude variability in the EEG signal termed "High Variability Periods" or "HVPs", defined as segments when the standard deviation of a moving window is continuously higher than the quartile cutoff. We characterize the parameter space of the metric in terms of window size, overlap, and threshold to suggest ideal parameter choice and compare its performance as a discriminator of brain state to alternate single channel measures of variability such as entropy, complexity, harmonic regression fit, and spectral measures.<br><br>RESULTS: We show that the average HVP duration provides a substantially distinct view of the signal relative to alternate metrics of variability and, when used in combination with these metrics, significantly enhances the ability to predict whether an individual has their eyes open or closed and is performing a working memory and Raven's pattern completion task. In addition, HVPs disappear under anesthesia and do not reappear in early periods of recovery.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: HVP metrics enhance the discrimination of various brain states and are fast to estimate.<br><br>SIGNIFICANCE: HVP metrics can provide an additional view of signal variability that has potential clinical application in the rapid discrimination of brain states.}, }
@article {pmid38000912, year = {2022}, author = {Cosma, BM and Shirali Hossein Zade, R and Jordan, EN and van Lent, P and Peng, C and Pillay, S and Abeel, T}, title = {Evaluating long-read de novo assembly tools for eukaryotic genomes: insights and considerations.}, journal = {GigaScience}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {38000912}, issn = {2047-217X}, mesh = {Sequence Analysis, DNA/methods ; *Genome ; Algorithms ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods ; *Nanopores ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Assembly algorithm choice should be a deliberate, well-justified decision when researchers create genome assemblies for eukaryotic organisms from third-generation sequencing technologies. While third-generation sequencing by Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) and Pacific Biosciences (PacBio) has overcome the disadvantages of short read lengths specific to next-generation sequencing (NGS), third-generation sequencers are known to produce more error-prone reads, thereby generating a new set of challenges for assembly algorithms and pipelines. However, the introduction of HiFi reads, which offer substantially reduced error rates, has provided a promising solution for more accurate assembly outcomes. Since the introduction of third-generation sequencing technologies, many tools have been developed that aim to take advantage of the longer reads, and researchers need to choose the correct assembler for their projects.<br><br>RESULTS: We benchmarked state-of-the-art long-read de novo assemblers to help readers make a balanced choice for the assembly of eukaryotes. To this end, we used 12 real and 64 simulated datasets from different eukaryotic genomes, with different read length distributions, imitating PacBio continuous long-read (CLR), PacBio high-fidelity (HiFi), and ONT sequencing to evaluate the assemblers. We include 5 commonly used long-read assemblers in our benchmark: Canu, Flye, Miniasm, Raven, and wtdbg2 for ONT and PacBio CLR reads. For PacBio HiFi reads , we include 5 state-of-the-art HiFi assemblers: HiCanu, Flye, Hifiasm, LJA, and MBG. Evaluation categories address the following metrics: reference-based metrics, assembly statistics, misassembly count, BUSCO completeness, runtime, and RAM usage. Additionally, we investigated the effect of increased read length on the quality of the assemblies and report that read length can, but does not always, positively impact assembly quality.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our benchmark concludes that there is no assembler that performs the best in all the evaluation categories. However, our results show that overall Flye is the best-performing assembler for PacBio CLR and ONT reads, both on real and simulated data. Meanwhile, best-performing PacBio HiFi assemblers are Hifiasm and LJA. Next, the benchmarking using longer reads shows that the increased read length improves assembly quality, but the extent to which that can be achieved depends on the size and complexity of the reference genome.}, }
@article {pmid37999484, year = {2023}, author = {Athanasakopoulou, Z and Sofia, M and Skampardonis, V and Giannakopoulos, A and Birtsas, P and Tsolakos, K and Spyrou, V and Chatzopoulos, DC and Satra, M and Diamantopoulos, V and Mpellou, S and Galamatis, D and G Papatsiros, V and Billinis, C}, title = {Indication of West Nile Virus (WNV) Lineage 2 Overwintering among Wild Birds in the Regions of Peloponnese and Western Greece.}, journal = {Veterinary sciences}, volume = {10}, number = {11}, pages = {}, pmid = {37999484}, issn = {2306-7381}, support = {"Integrated Program for Mosquito Control, Creation of a Control Structure and Development of a West Nile Virus Surveillance and Vigilance Mechanism in the Peloponnese Region" and "Epidemiological surveillance of West Nile Virus in wild birds and equines i//the Prefecture of Peloponnese (Peloponnisos SA) and the Joint Venture 2 INSEKO EU - Eleftheriou Bioapplications and Co. LTD./ ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV), a zoonotic mosquito-borne virus, has recently caused human outbreaks in Europe, including Greece. Its transmission cycle in nature includes wild birds as amplifying hosts and ornithophilic mosquito vectors. The aim of this study was to assess WNV circulation among wild birds from two regions of Greece, Peloponnese and Western Greece, during 2022. To this end, a total of 511 birds belonging to 37 different species were sampled and molecularly screened. WNV RNA was detected from February to November in a total of 71 wild birds of nine species originating from both investigated regions. The first eight positive samples were sequenced on a part of NS3 and, according to the phylogenetic analysis, they belonged to evolutionary lineage 2 and presented similarity to previous outbreak-causing Greek strains (Argolis 2017, Macedonia 2010 and 2012). It was more likely to identify a PCR positive bird as the population density and the distance from water sources decreased. The present report provides evidence of WNV occurrence in both Peloponnese and Western Greece during 2022 and underlines its possible overwintering, highlighting the need for avian species surveillance to be conducted annually and throughout the year. Magpies are proposed as sentinels for WNV monitoring.}, }
@article {pmid37992097, year = {2023}, author = {Çilem Kızılpınar, S and Çiğdem Aydemır, M and Doğan, &#xd6; and Bahar Atak-Akkus, F and Baran, Z}, title = {SOCIAL COGNITION AND OXIDATIVE STRESS IN SCHIZOPHRENIA PATIENTS AND FIRST-DEGREE RELATIVES OF PATIENTS.}, journal = {Psychiatria Danubina}, volume = {35}, number = {4}, pages = {523-534}, doi = {10.24869/psyd.2023.523}, pmid = {37992097}, issn = {0353-5053}, mesh = {Humans ; *Social Cognition ; *Psychotic Disorders ; Cognition ; Schizophrenia, Paranoid ; Oxidative Stress ; Glutathione Peroxidase ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Misattribution of motivational salience to non-salient (neutral) stimuli could be viewed as a hallmark of psychosis in schizophrenia. Studies have recently revealed increased subjective experience of emotional arousal (EA) to neutral social stimuli in paranoid schizophrenia psychosis, suggesting a misattribution of emotional salience to them. We examined this phenomenon directly by quantifying the level of EA subjectively attributed to low-arousal, neutral-valenced faces.<br><br>SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Patients with remitted schizophrenia (PG) (n=26), first-degree relatives of schizophrenic patients (RG) (n=25), and healthy controls (HCG) (n=36) were compared in terms of oxidative stress parameters -serum Superoxide Dismutase, Catalase, Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx), Nitrite, Nitrate, Malondialdehyde, and Total Glutathione levels-, social cognition measured by the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test and working memory measured by the N-back Task. Groups were compared, assuming that HCG had a genetically lower risk of schizophrenia compared to PG and RG.<br><br>RESULTS: HCG performed significantly better than PG and RG, who were genetically at high risk, in terms of social cognition (respectively p=0.000, p=0.014), working memory (respectively p=0.001, p=0.003), and had statistically lower Glutathione Peroxidase (GPX) level than the PG and RG (both p:0.000). After controlling for the effect of the general intellectual abilities measured by the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices Test and working memory the differences between groups on the Eyes Test disappeared (p=0.057). However, this value tended to be significant.<br><br>CONCLUSION: It was concluded that social cognition and working memory and GPx level may be used as endophenotypes and social cognition, working memory, and general intellectual skills are different but strongly related constructs. Endophenotypes guide treatment targets even after the disease has developed. The results of our study showed that in addition to psychopharmacological treatments, interventions to reduce oxidative stress and approaches to improve cognitive skills will have a positive impact on the disease's progression.}, }
@article {pmid37991482, year = {2023}, author = {Kasimov, V and White, RT and Jelocnik, M}, title = {Draft genomes of novel avian Chlamydia abortus strains from Australian Torresian crows (Corvus orru) shed light on possible reservoir hosts and evolutionary pathways.}, journal = {Microbial genomics}, volume = {9}, number = {11}, pages = {}, pmid = {37991482}, issn = {2057-5858}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Birds ; *Chlamydia/genetics ; *Crows ; Phylogeny ; *Genome, Bacterial ; }, abstract = {Chlamydia abortus, an obligate intracellular bacterium, is a major causative agent of reproductive loss in ruminants, with zoonotic potential. Though this pathogen is primarily known to infect livestock, recent studies have detected and isolated genetically distinct avian strains of C. abortus from wild birds globally. Before this study, only five avian C. abortus genomes were publicly available. Therefore, we performed culture-independent probe-based whole-genome sequencing on clinical swabs positive for avian C. abortus obtained from Australian Torresian crows (Corvus orru) in 2019 and 2020. We successfully obtained draft genomes for three avian C. abortus strains (C1, C2 and C3), each comprising draft chromosomes with lengths of 1 115 667, 1 120 231 and 1 082 115 bp, and associated 7 553 bp plasmids, with a genome completeness exceeding 92 %. Molecular characterization revealed that these three strains comprise a novel sequence type (ST333), whilst phylogenetic analyses placed all three strains in a cluster with other avian C. abortus genomes. Interestingly, these three strains share a distant genomic relation (2693 single nucleotide variants) with the reference strain 15-58d/44 (ST152), isolated from a Eurasian magpie (Pica pica) in Poland, highlighting the need for more publicly available genomes. Broad comparative analyses with other avian C. abortus genomes revealed that the three draft genomes contain conserved Chlamydia genomic features, including genes coding for type III secretion system and polymorphic membrane proteins, and potential virulence factors such as the large chlamydial cytotoxin, warranting further studies. This research provides the first avian C. abortus draft genomes from Australian birds, highlighting Torresian crows as novel reservoir hosts for these potential pathogens, and demonstrates a practical methodology for sequencing novel Chlamydia genomes without relying on traditional cell culture.}, }
@article {pmid37989310, year = {2024}, author = {Harrington, KJ and Folkertsma, R and Auersperg, AMI and Biondi, L and Lambert, ML}, title = {Innovative problem solving by wild falcons.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {34}, number = {1}, pages = {190-195.e3}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2023.10.061}, pmid = {37989310}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; Problem Solving ; Cognition ; Learning ; *Parrots ; *Falconiformes ; }, abstract = {Innovation (i.e., a new solution to a familiar problem, or applying an existing behavior to a novel problem[1][,][2]) plays a fundamental role in species' ecology and evolution. It can be a useful measure for cross-group comparisons of behavioral and cognitive flexibility and a proxy for general intelligence.[3][,][4][,][5] Among birds, experimental studies of innovation (and cognition more generally) are largely from captive corvids and parrots,[6][,][7][,][8][,][9][,][10][,][11][,][12] though we lack serious models for avian technical intelligence outside these taxa. Striated caracaras (Phalcoboenus australis) are Falconiformes, sister clade to parrots and passerines,[13][,][14][,][15] and those endemic to the Falkland Islands (Malvinas) show curiosity and neophilia similar to notoriously neophilic kea parrots[16][,][17] and face similar socio-ecological pressures to corvids and parrots.[18][,][19] We tested wild striated caracaras as a new avian model for technical cognition and innovation using a field-applicable 8-task comparative paradigm (adapted from Rössler et al.[20] and Auersperg et al.[21]). The setup allowed us to assess behavior, rate, and flexibility of problem solving over repeated exposure in a natural setting. Like other generalist species with low neophobia,[21][,][22] we predicted caracaras to demonstrate a haptic approach to solving tasks, flexibly switching to new, unsolved problems and improving their performance over time. Striated caracaras performed comparably to tool-using parrots,[20] nearly reaching ceiling levels of innovation in few trials, repeatedly and flexibly solving tasks, and rapidly learning. We attribute our findings to the birds' ecology, including geographic restriction, resource unpredictability, and opportunistic generalism,[23][,][24][,][25] and encourage future work investigating their cognitive abilities in the wild. VIDEO ABSTRACT.}, }
@article {pmid37984348, year = {2024}, author = {Kirubalingam, K and Nguyen, P and Kang, A and Beyea, JA}, title = {Implantable Hearing Devices in Ontario: A Population-Based Study of Access to Care and Access to Devices.}, journal = {Audiology &amp; neuro-otology}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {136-145}, doi = {10.1159/000534384}, pmid = {37984348}, issn = {1421-9700}, mesh = {Humans ; Retrospective Studies ; Ontario/epidemiology ; Cohort Studies ; *Hearing Aids ; *Cochlear Implants ; Hearing ; Health Services Accessibility ; Bone Conduction ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The prevalence of hearing loss in Canada is high, with many patients requiring implantable hearing devices (IHDs) as treatment for their disease severity. Despite this need, many eligible patients do not pursue these interventions. The objective of this study was to examine rates of IHD based on geographic location to understand locoregional variation in access to care.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: This was a retrospective population-based cohort study.<br><br>SETTING: All hospitals in the Canadian province of Ontario.<br><br>METHODS: Of all patients with IHD between April 1, 1992, and March 31, 2021, cochlear implants (CIs) (4,720) and bone-anchored hearing aids (BAHA) (1,125) cohorts were constructed. Place of residence was categorized based on Local Health Integrated Network (LHIN). Summary statistics for place of surgical institution based on LHIN at first surgery, name of institution of first surgery and "as the crow flies" distance (in km) between place of residence and surgical institution were calculated. Rate of implantations was calculated for LHIN regions based on number of surgeries per 1,000,000 persons/years.<br><br>RESULTS: Toronto Central, Central, Central East, and Champlain regions had >10% of patients undergoing BAHA and CI. 1,019 (90.6%) and 4,232 (89.7%) of patients receiving BAHA and CI, respectively, resided in urban/suburban regions and 94 patients (8.4%) and 436 (9.2%) resided in rural regions. The median distance between residential location and the institution was 46.4 km (interquartile range [IQR], 18.9-103.6) and 44.7 km (IQR, 15.7-96.9) for BAHA and CI, respectively. From 1992 to 2021, the number of CI and BAHA performed across Ontario increased by 17 folds and 6 folds, respectively.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This large comprehensive population study provides longitudinal insight into the access to care of IHD based on geographic factors. Our findings of the present population-based study indicate an overall increase in access to devices with disproportionate access to care based on geographic locations. Further work is needed to characterize barriers to IHD access to align with demands.}, }
@article {pmid37979839, year = {2024}, author = {Broekstra, DC and Werker, PMN}, title = {Correspondence to: Henry O'Brien, Jay Paniker and Liam Brown: Is a smartphone application as accurate as a traditional goniometer for assessing finger joint angles in Dupuytren's disease? Hand Surg Rehabil 2023 Sep 29.}, journal = {Hand surgery &amp; rehabilitation}, volume = {43}, number = {2}, pages = {101619}, doi = {10.1016/j.hansur.2023.11.004}, pmid = {37979839}, issn = {2468-1210}, mesh = {Humans ; *Smartphone ; *Dupuytren Contracture/physiopathology ; *Mobile Applications ; *Finger Joint/physiopathology ; *Arthrometry, Articular/instrumentation ; }, }
@article {pmid37968687, year = {2023}, author = {Sandkühler, JF and Kersting, X and Faust, A and Königs, EK and Altman, G and Ettinger, U and Lux, S and Philipsen, A and Müller, H and Brauner, J}, title = {The effects of creatine supplementation on cognitive performance-a randomised controlled study.}, journal = {BMC medicine}, volume = {21}, number = {1}, pages = {440}, pmid = {37968687}, issn = {1741-7015}, mesh = {Humans ; *Creatine/adverse effects ; Bayes Theorem ; *Dietary Supplements ; Brain ; Double-Blind Method ; Cognition ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Creatine is an organic compound that facilitates the recycling of energy-providing adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in muscle and brain tissue. It is a safe, well-studied supplement for strength training. Previous studies have shown that supplementation increases brain creatine levels, which might increase cognitive performance. The results of studies that have tested cognitive performance differ greatly, possibly due to different populations, supplementation regimens, and cognitive tasks. This is the largest study on the effect of creatine supplementation on cognitive performance to date.<br><br>METHODS: Our trial was preregistered, cross-over, double-blind, placebo-controlled, and randomised, with daily supplementation of 5&#xa0;g for 6&#xa0;weeks each. We tested participants on Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM) and on the Backward Digit Span (BDS). In addition, we included eight exploratory cognitive tests. About half of our 123 participants were vegetarians and half were omnivores.<br><br>RESULTS: Bayesian evidence supported a small beneficial effect of creatine. The creatine effect bordered significance for BDS (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.064, &#x3b7;[2]P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.029) but not RAPM (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.327, &#x3b7;[2]P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.008). There was no indication that creatine improved the performance of our exploratory cognitive tasks. Side effects were reported significantly more often for creatine than for placebo supplementation (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.002, RR&#x2009;=&#x2009;4.25). Vegetarians did not benefit more from creatine than omnivores.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our study, in combination with the literature, implies that creatine might have a small beneficial effect. Larger studies are needed to confirm or rule out this effect. Given the safety and broad availability of creatine, this is well worth investigating; a small effect could have large benefits when scaled over time and over many people.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION: The trial was prospectively registered (drks.de identifier: DRKS00017250, https://osf.io/xpwkc/).}, }
@article {pmid37966883, year = {2023}, author = {Watanabe, T and Tahara, K and Hirano, E}, title = {Evaluating the Impact of a Cream Containing Horse Placental Extract on Eye Corner Wrinkles in Healthy Women: Single-Blind Comparative Study.}, journal = {JMIR dermatology}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {e51070}, pmid = {37966883}, issn = {2562-0959}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Placental extract has been mostly used in skin care for cosmetic purposes. However, the use of various placental extracts has been limited due to the lack of established and effective application methods.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: In this study, we investigated the antiwrinkle effect of a cream formulation-LNC wrinkle eye cream (LNC-EC)-containing horse placental extract as the main ingredient.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 24 healthy women, aged 37-54 years, with wrinkle grades 1-3, were treated with LNC-EC for 2 weeks. The cream was applied on one-half of the participants' faces, and the results were compared with the untreated half of the face.<br><br>RESULTS: Visual inspection, using the wrinkle grade standard, showed that the area treated with LNC-EC had a significantly lower wrinkle grade than the untreated area when comparing before and after the application of LNC-EC. In addition, replica analysis showed a significant reduction in both the maximum wrinkle width and the number of wrinkles in the LNC-EC-treated area in comparison to the untreated area before and after the application. These results suggest that LNC-EC has an antiwrinkle effect on the corners of the eyes based on parameters like the maximum wrinkle width and the number of wrinkles.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: LNC-EC, with horse placental extract as its main ingredient, was shown to be effective in improving wrinkles at the eye corners, presumably due to a reduction in the maximum wrinkle width and the number of wrinkles. Interpretation of the results is limited because this study was conducted only in the intervention group. A randomized controlled trial with a placebo control group is necessary to verify the antiwrinkle effects of horse placental extract.}, }
@article {pmid37965549, year = {2023}, author = {Sen, K and Llewellyn, M and Taheri, B and Turner, RJ and Berglund, T and Maloney, K}, title = {Mechanism of fungal remediation of wetland water: Stropharia rugosoannulata as promising fungal species for the development of biofilters to remove clinically important pathogenic and antibiotic resistant bacteria in contaminated water.}, journal = {Frontiers in microbiology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1234586}, pmid = {37965549}, issn = {1664-302X}, abstract = {Mycoremediation uses mushroom forming fungi for remediation of sites contaminated with biotic and abiotic contaminants. The root-like hyphae of many fungi, the mycelia, have been used to remediate soil and water. In this study mushroom mycelia biofilters were evaluated for remediation efficacy of wetland water polluted with crow feces containing antibiotic resistant (AMR) bacteria. Three strains of fungi, Pleurotus ostreatus, Stropharia rugosoannulata, and Pleurotus pulmonarius, were allowed to develop dense mycelia for 3-5 weeks on wood chips within cylindrical jars. Biofilter jars were incubated with wetland water (WW) obtained from a crow roost area that was additionally spiked with AMR bacteria isolated from previous crow fecal collections. E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecium, Campylobacter jejuni, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Salmonella enteritidis were added at concentrations of 1,500-3,500 CFU/100 ml. Remediation was calculated from bacterial counts or gene copy numbers (GCN), before and after passage of water through jars. Stropharia and P. pulmonarius biofilters remediated all bacteria, but Klebsiella, in the range of 43-78%, after 1 h. Incubation of water for 24 h showed Stropharia remediation to be superior relative to other tested fungi. Percent remediation varied as follows: S. aureus-100%, E. faecium-97%, C. jejuni-59%, P. aeruginosa-54%, E. coli-65% and S. enteritidis-27%. The mechanism of remediation was tested by removing the mycelium from the biofilter column after passage of water, followed by extraction of DNA. Association of bacterial DNA with the mycelia was demonstrated by qPCR for all bacteria, except S. aureus and Salmonella. Depending on the bacteria, the GCN ranged from 3,500 to 54,000/250 mg of mycelia. Thus, some of the ways in which mycelia biofilters decrease bacteria from water are through bio-filtration and bio-absorption. Active fungal growth and close contact with bacteria appear necessary for removal. Overall these results suggest that mushroom mycelia biofilters have the potential to effectively remediate water contaminated with pathogenic and AMR bacteria.}, }
@article {pmid37964353, year = {2023}, author = {Otieno, B and Elson, L and Matharu, AK and Riithi, N and Chongwo, E and Katana, K and Nasambu, C and Mutebi, F and Feldmeier, H and Krücken, J and Fillinger, U and Abubakar, A}, title = {Neurocognitive and mental health outcomes in children with tungiasis: a cross-sectional study in rural Kenya and Uganda.}, journal = {Infectious diseases of poverty}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {100}, pmid = {37964353}, issn = {2049-9957}, support = {405027164//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; KR 2245/7-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; Child ; *Tungiasis/epidemiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Uganda/epidemiology ; Kenya/epidemiology ; Tunga/physiology ; Outcome Assessment, Health Care ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Tungiasis, a neglected tropical parasitosis, disproportionately affects children. Few empirical studies have reported neurocognitive and mental health outcomes of children with ectoparasitic skin diseases like tungiasis. Pathophysiology of tungiasis suggests it could detrimentally affect cognition and behaviour. This study pioneered the investigation of neurocognitive and mental health outcomes in children with tungiasis.<br><br>METHODS: This was a multi-site cross-sectional study including 454 quasi-randomly sampled school-children aged 8-14 from 48 randomly selected schools in two counties in Kenya and a district in Uganda. The participants were stratified into infected and uninfected based on the presence of tungiasis. The infected were further classified into mild and severe infection groups based on the intensity of the infection. Adapted, validated, and standardized measures of cognition and mental health such as Raven Matrices and Child Behaviour Checklist were used to collect data. Statistical tests including a multilevel, generalized mixed-effects linear models with family link set to identity were used to compare the scores of uninfected and infected children and to identify other potential risk factors for neurocognitive and behavioural outcomes.<br><br>RESULTS: When adjusted for covariates, mild infection was associated with lower scores in literacy [adjusted &#x3b2;(a&#x3b2;)&#x2009;=&#x2009;-&#xa0;8.9; 95% confidence interval (CI) -&#xa0;17.2, -&#xa0;0.6], language (a&#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;-&#xa0;1.7; 95% CI -&#xa0;3.2, -&#xa0;0.3), cognitive flexibility (a&#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;-&#xa0;6.1; 95% CI&#xa0;-&#xa0;10.4, -&#xa0;1.7) and working memory (a&#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;-&#xa0;0.3; 95% CI -&#xa0;0.6, -&#xa0;0.1). Severe infection was associated with lower scores in literacy (a&#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;-&#xa0;11.0; 95% CI -&#xa0;19.3, -&#xa0;2.8), response inhibition, (a&#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;-&#xa0;2.2; 95% CI -&#xa0;4.2, -&#xa0;0.2), fine motor control (a&#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#xa0;-&#xa0;0.7; 95% CI -&#xa0;1.1, -&#xa0;0.4) and numeracy (a&#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;-&#xa0;3; 95% CI -&#xa0;5.5, -&#xa0;0.4).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study provides first evidence that tungiasis is associated with poor neurocognitive functioning in children. Since tungiasis is a chronic disease with frequent reinfections, such negative effects may potentially impair their development and life achievements.}, }
@article {pmid37963613, year = {2023}, author = {Prinja, S and Chugh, Y and Garg, B and Guinness, L}, title = {National hospital costing systems matter for universal healthcare: the India PM-JAY experience.}, journal = {BMJ global health}, volume = {8}, number = {11}, pages = {}, pmid = {37963613}, issn = {2059-7908}, mesh = {Humans ; *Universal Health Care ; *Health Care Costs ; Hospitals ; India ; }, abstract = {India envisions achieving universal health coverage to provide its people with access to affordable quality health services. A breakthrough effort in this direction has been the launch of the world's largest health assurance scheme Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, the implementation of which resides with the National Health Authority. Appropriate provider payment systems and reimbursement rates are an important element for the success of PM-JAY, which in turn relies on robust cost evidence to support pricing decisions. Since the launch of PM-JAY, the health benefits package and provider payment rates have undergone a series of revisions. At the outset, there was a relative lack of cost data. Later revisions relied on health facility costing studies, and now there is an initiative to establish a national hospital costing system relying on provider-generated data. Lessons from PM-JAY experience show that the success of such cost systems to ensure regular and routine generation of evidence is contingent on integrating with existing billing or patient information systems or management information systems, which digitise similar information on resource consumption without any additional data entry effort. Therefore, there is a need to focus on building sustainable mechanisms for setting up systems for generating accurate cost data rather than relying on resource-intensive studies for cost data collection.}, }
@article {pmid37961949, year = {2024}, author = {O'Brien, MJ and Valverde, S and Duran-Nebreda, S and Vidiella, B and Bentley, RA}, title = {Punctuated equilibrium at 50: Anything there for evolutionary anthropology? Yes; definitely.}, journal = {Evolutionary anthropology}, volume = {33}, number = {1}, pages = {e22009}, doi = {10.1002/evan.22009}, pmid = {37961949}, issn = {1520-6505}, support = {2019 BP 00206//Beatriu de Pin&#xf3;s postdoctoral programme in the Office of the General Secretary of Research and Universities and the Ministry of Research and Univertisites/ ; 801370//Marie Sklodowska-Curie COFUND/ ; //2020-2021 Biodiversa and Water JPI/ ; 101003777//BiodivRestore ERA-NET Cofund/ ; //Innovation Fund Denmark (IFD)/ ; //Agence Nationale de la Recherche (ANR)/ ; //Funda&#xe7;&#xe3;o para a Ci&#xea;ncia e a Tecnologia (FCT)/ ; //Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA)/ ; PCI2022-132936//MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033/ ; //European Union NextGenerationEU/PRTR/ ; PID2020-117822GB-I00/AEI/10.13039/501100011033//Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation through the State Research Agency (AEI)/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Biological Evolution ; *Fossils ; Cultural Diversity ; Databases, Factual ; }, abstract = {The theory of punctuated equilibrium (PE) was developed a little over 50 years ago to explain long-term, large-scale appearance and disappearance of species in the fossil record. A theory designed specifically for that purpose cannot be expected, out of the box, to be directly applicable to biocultural evolution, but in revised form, PE offers a promising approach to incorporating not only a wealth of recent empirical research on genetic, linguistic, and technological evolution but also large databases that document human biological and cultural diversity across time and space. Here we isolate the fundamental components of PE and propose which pieces, when reassembled or renamed, can be highly useful in evolutionary anthropology, especially as humanity faces abrupt ecological challenges on an increasingly larger scale.}, }
@article {pmid37958278, year = {2023}, author = {Palanisamy, P and Urooj, S and Arunachalam, R and Lay-Ekuakille, A}, title = {A Novel Prognostic Model Using Chaotic CNN with Hybridized Spoofing for Enhancing Diagnostic Accuracy in Epileptic Seizure Prediction.}, journal = {Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {13}, number = {21}, pages = {}, pmid = {37958278}, issn = {2075-4418}, support = {PNURSP2023R79//Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia./ ; }, abstract = {Epileptic seizure detection has undergone progressive advancements since its conception in the 1970s. From proof-of-concept experiments in the latter part of that decade, it has now become a vibrant area of clinical and laboratory research. In an effort to bring this technology closer to practical application in human patients, this study introduces a customized approach to selecting electroencephalogram (EEG) features and electrode positions for seizure prediction. The focus is on identifying precursors that occur within 10 min of the onset of abnormal electrical activity during a seizure. However, there are security concerns related to safeguarding patient EEG recordings against unauthorized access and network-based attacks. Therefore, there is an urgent need for an efficient prediction and classification method for encrypted EEG data. This paper presents an effective system for analyzing and recognizing encrypted EEG information using Arnold transform algorithms, chaotic mapping, and convolutional neural networks (CNNs). In this system, the EEG time series from each channel is converted into a 2D spectrogram image, which is then encrypted using chaotic algorithms. The encrypted data is subsequently processed by CNNs coupled with transfer learning (TL) frameworks. To optimize the fusion parameters of the ensemble learning classifiers, a hybridized spoofing optimization method is developed by combining the characteristics of corvid and gregarious-seeking agents. The evaluation of the model's effectiveness yielded the following results: 98.9 ± 0.3% accuracy, 98.2 ± 0.7% sensitivity, 98.6 ± 0.6% specificity, 98.6 ± 0.6% precision, and an F1 measure of 98.9 ± 0.6%. When compared with other state-of-the-art techniques applied to the same dataset, this novel strategy demonstrated one of the most effective seizure detection systems, as evidenced by these results.}, }
@article {pmid37952928, year = {2024}, author = {Gutema, BT and Levecke, B and Sorrie, MB and Megersa, ND and Zewdie, TH and Yesera, GE and De Henauw, S and Abubakar, A and Abbeddou, S}, title = {Effectiveness of intermittent iron and high-dose vitamin A supplementation on cognitive development of school children in southern Ethiopia: a randomized placebo-controlled trial.}, journal = {The American journal of clinical nutrition}, volume = {119}, number = {2}, pages = {470-484}, doi = {10.1016/j.ajcnut.2023.11.005}, pmid = {37952928}, issn = {1938-3207}, mesh = {Child ; Female ; Humans ; Cognition ; Dietary Supplements ; Ethiopia ; *Iron ; *Iron Deficiencies ; Vitamin A ; Vitamins ; Male ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Iron is an essential mineral whose deficiency results in cognitive alteration, impaired emotional behaviors, and altered myelination and neurotransmission. In animal models, it has been shown that vitamin A (VA) could affect cognition.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of intermittent iron and VA supplementation on cognitive development of schoolchildren, and to assess the interaction between these supplementations.<br><br>METHODS: Considering a 2 &#xd7; 2 factorial design, 504 children were randomly assigned to 1 of the 4 arms: placebo VA and placebo iron supplement; high-dose vitamin VA and placebo iron supplement; iron supplement and placebo VA; and iron and high-dose vitamin VA supplements. Cognitive development was assessed using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, digit span, Tower of London, and visual search tasks.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean [&#xb1; standard deviation (SD)] age of the enrolled children was 9.6 (&#xb1;1.6) y. One-fifth of the children had iron deficiency or anemia, whereas 2.9%, 3.9%, and 12.1% of children had low iron stores, iron deficiency anemia, and VA deficiency, respectively. Intermittent iron supplementation did not result in any significant improvement of children's cognitive development and had a negative effect on the performance index of the visual search task compared with placebo (-0.17 SD, 95% confidence interval: -0.32, -0.02). Effects were evident among children with stunting, thinness, or children coming from understimulating home environments. High-dose VA supplementation resulted in a significant improvement of digit span z-score with a mean difference of 0.30 SD (95% confidence interval: 0.14, 0.46) compared with placebo VA. VA had a more beneficial impact for girls, children infected with helminths, and those from food secure households.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In a population where the prevalence of iron deficiency is low, intermittent iron supplementation did not have any or negative effect on the child's cognitive development outcomes. Conversely, VA supplementation improved the child's working memory.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: The study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT04137354 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04137354).}, }
@article {pmid37947547, year = {2023}, author = {Keene, S and Allen, S and McCormick, AKHG and Trottier, C and Bull Shows, B and Hallett, J and Deernose, R and Held, S}, title = {Developing and Implementing a Culturally Consonant Treatment Fidelity Support Plan with the Apsáalooke Nation.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {20}, number = {21}, pages = {}, pmid = {37947547}, issn = {1660-4601}, support = {P20 GM103474/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; U01 MD010619/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; U54 GM104944/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {United States ; Humans ; Behavior Therapy ; *Self-Management ; Chronic Disease ; *Health Services, Indigenous ; National Institutes of Health (U.S.) ; }, abstract = {Treatment fidelity remains underreported in health intervention research, particularly among Indigenous communities. One explanation for this gap is the lack of culturally consonant strategies listed in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Behavior Change Consortium (BCC) treatment fidelity framework, the gold standard for understanding and measuring fidelity. This paper focuses on the development and implementation of a culturally consonant treatment fidelity support plan across two of the five BCC fidelity areas, provider training and treatment delivery, within a chronic illness self-management program for the Apsáalooke (Crow) Nation. Our team selected and adapted strategies from, and added strategies to, the BCC framework, that centered on relational accountability and the Apsáalooke culture. To be culturally consonant, we approached treatment fidelity as supporting Aakbaabaaniilea (Apsáalooke program facilitators) rather than monitoring them. This resulted in the development of a fifth treatment fidelity area: building and fostering relationships. We propose that fidelity to relational accountability is the foundation of successful programs in Indigenous communities. This suggests an important shift from tracking what was conducted in an intervention to prioritizing how things were conducted. We encourage others to view the BCC framework as a starting point in developing fidelity strategies that are consonant with local cultures.}, }
@article {pmid37945911, year = {2024}, author = {Bastos, APM}, title = {Crows make optimal choices based on relative probabilities.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {52}, number = {3}, pages = {207-208}, pmid = {37945911}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {*Crows ; *Choice Behavior ; Animals ; Probability ; Reward ; Reinforcement, Psychology ; }, abstract = {A recent study by Johnston, Brecht, and Nieder (2023, Current Biology, 33, 3238-3243) finds that carrion crows associate varying rates of reinforcement with novel arbitrary stimuli and make optimal decisions when they must later choose between stimulus pairs. These results demonstrate that crows are capable of not only storing information about reward probabilities in their memory but also making optimal choices based on this information even a month later.}, }
@article {pmid37932494, year = {2023}, author = {Apostel, A and Panichello, M and Buschman, TJ and Rose, J}, title = {Corvids optimize working memory by categorizing continuous stimuli.}, journal = {Communications biology}, volume = {6}, number = {1}, pages = {1122}, pmid = {37932494}, issn = {2399-3642}, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Brain ; Cognition ; *Songbirds ; Primates ; }, abstract = {Working memory (WM) is a crucial element of the higher cognition of primates and corvid songbirds. Despite its importance, WM has a severely limited capacity and is vulnerable to noise. In primates, attractor dynamics mitigate the effect of noise by discretizing continuous information. Yet, it remains unclear whether similar dynamics are seen in avian brains. Here, we show jackdaws (Corvus monedula) have similar behavioral biases as humans; memories are less precise and more biased as memory demands increase. Model-based analysis reveal discrete attractors are evenly spread across the stimulus space. Altogether, our comparative approach suggests attractor dynamics in primates and corvids mitigate the effect of noise by systematically drifting towards specific attractors. By demonstrating this effect in an evolutionary distant species, our results strengthen attractor dynamics as general, adaptive biological principle to efficiently use WM.}, }
@article {pmid37929861, year = {2023}, author = {Morales, C and Flores Ferro, E and Osorio, J and Maureira Cid, F}, title = {[Independence of the anthropometric profile, attention and intelligence in higher education students in the field of physical activity in Chile].}, journal = {Nutricion hospitalaria}, volume = {40}, number = {6}, pages = {1246-1252}, doi = {10.20960/nh.04719}, pmid = {37929861}, issn = {1699-5198}, mesh = {Humans ; Chile ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Anthropometry ; *Body Composition ; *Exercise ; Intelligence ; Students ; Attention ; }, abstract = {Introduction: kinanthropometry is the current science that studies body parameters in relation to its functioning (such as body composition, proportionality, somatotype, etc.), with established norms, techniques and criteria. Objective: to relate anthropometric profile, attention and problem solving in higher education students in the field of physical activity in Chile. Method: quantitative-correlational approach, with non-experimental and cross-sectional design. Results: there is no significant relationship between body composition (body masses) and cognitive tests (attention and Raven). Regarding anthropometric data (body composition), no significant differences were observed between the sexes for any parameter. Conclusion: it can be deduced that the results of the cognitive factors may be associated with other variables, and not specifically with the variables that may affect anthropometric parameters. These are very interesting topics for future studies, so it is suggested to continue studying cognitive abilities with other variables.}, }
@article {pmid37919347, year = {2023}, author = {Han, Y and Li, C and Wang, R and Zhang, J and Wu, F and Zhao, J and Yan, S and Liu, Q and Pan, Y}, title = {A new Chinese crow's feet grading scale based on the DermaTOP system.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {18903}, pmid = {37919347}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Humans ; *Cosmetics ; East Asian People ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {Many Chinese wrinkle studies continue to use non-Chinese scales because few Chinese-based wrinkle scales have been developed. The study aims to develop a crow's feet grading scale for Chinese individuals. We enrolled 608 healthy Chinese subjects and measured data through the DermaTOP system. We chose exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to reduce the dimensions of the data. A three-factor structure was obtained by using EFA, and it explained a cumulative total of 89.551% of the variance. A computational formula was obtained by calculating the total factor tilt scores and taking the variance contribution rate of three factors as the weight. Based on the computational formula, a grading map was designed and tested. The model validation was conducted using both subjective assessments from the expert panel and objective results from the model calculations. The results showed that our grading scale model is stable. This study developed a Chinese crow's feet (CCF) grading scale, which included a parameter, a grading map, and literal descriptions. The CCF grading scale is a validated tool for evaluating the effects of cosmetics or specific therapies. More importantly, the CCF scale was developed based on objective data, which may inspire new ideas for wrinkle grading scale development in the future.}, }
@article {pmid37907616, year = {2023}, author = {Kannoth, S and Ali, N and Prasanth, GK and Arvind, K and Mohany, M and Hembrom, PS and Sadanandan, S and Vasu, DA and Grace, T}, title = {Transcriptome analysis of Corvus splendens reveals a repertoire of antimicrobial peptides.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {18728}, pmid = {37907616}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Crows ; Antimicrobial Peptides ; Staphylococcus aureus/genetics ; Escherichia coli/genetics ; Lipopolysaccharides ; Gene Expression Profiling ; *Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology ; Cathelicidins/chemistry ; Transcriptome ; }, abstract = {Multidrug resistance has become a global health problem associated with high morbidity and mortality. Antimicrobial peptides have been acknowledged as potential leads for prospective anti-infectives. Owing to their scavenging lifestyle, Corvus splendens is thought to have developed robust immunity to pathogens found in their diet, implying that they have evolved mechanisms to resist infection. In the current study, the transcriptome of C. splendens was sequenced, and de novo assembled to identify the presence of antimicrobial peptide genes. 72.09 million high-quality clean reads were obtained which were then de novo assembled into 3,43,503 transcripts and 74,958 unigenes. About 37,559 unigenes were successfully annotated using SwissProt, Pfam, GO, and KEGG databases. A search against APD3, CAMPR3 and LAMP databases identified 63 AMP candidates belonging to more than 20 diverse families and functional classes. mRNA of AvBD-2, AvBD-13 and CATH-2 were found to be differentially expressed between the three tested crows as well as among the tissues. We also characterized Corvus Cathelicidin 2 (CATH-2) to gain knowledge of its antimicrobial mechanisms. The CD spectroscopy of synthesized mature Corvus CATH-2 peptide displayed an amphipathic α-helical structure. Though the synthetic CATH-2 caused hemolysis of human RBC, it also exhibited antimicrobial activity against E. coli, S. aureus, and B. cereus. Docking simulation results revealed that this peptide could bind to the LPS binding site of MD-2, which may prevent LPS from entering the MD-2 binding pocket, and trigger TLR4 signaling pathway. The Corvus CATH-2 characterized in this study could aid in the development of novel therapeutics.}, }
@article {pmid37903802, year = {2023}, author = {Spironelli, C and Marino, M and Mantini, D and Montalti, R and Craven, AR and Ersland, L and Angrilli, A and Hugdahl, K}, title = {fMRI fluctuations within the language network are correlated with severity of hallucinatory symptoms in schizophrenia.}, journal = {Schizophrenia (Heidelberg, Germany)}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {75}, pmid = {37903802}, issn = {2754-6993}, abstract = {Although schizophrenia (SZ) represents a complex multiform psychiatric disorder, one of its most striking symptoms are auditory verbal hallucinations (AVH). While the neurophysiological origin of this pervasive symptom has been extensively studied, there is so far no consensus conclusion on the neural correlates of the vulnerability to hallucinate. With a network-based fMRI approach, following the hypothesis of altered hemispheric dominance (Crow, 1997), we expected that LN alterations might result in self-other distinction impairments in SZ patients, and lead to the distressing subjective experiences of hearing voices. We used the independent component analysis of resting-state fMRI data, to first analyze LN connectivity in three groups of participants: SZ patients with and without hallucinations (AVH/D+ and AVH/D-, respectively), and a matched healthy control (HC) group. Then, we assessed the fMRI fluctuations using additional analyses based on fractional Amplitude of Low Frequency-Fluctuations (fALFF), both at the network- and region of interest (ROI)-level. Specific LN nodes were recruited in the right hemisphere (insula and Broca homologous area) for AVH/D+ , but not for HC and AVH/D-, consistent with a left hemisphere deficit in AVH patients. The fALFF analysis at the ROI level showed a negative correlation between fALFF Slow-4 and P1 Delusions PANSS subscale and a positive correlation between the fALFF Slow-5 and P3 Hallucination PANSS subscale for AVH/D+ only. These effects were not a consequence of structural differences between groups, as morphometric analysis did not evidence any group differences. Given the role of language as an emerging property resulting from the integration of many high-level cognitive processes and the underlying cortical areas, our results suggest that LN features from fMRI connectivity and fluctuations can be a marker of neurophysiological features characterizing SZ patients depending on their vulnerability to hallucinate.}, }
@article {pmid37903264, year = {2023}, author = {Kirschhock, ME and Nieder, A}, title = {Association neurons in the crow telencephalon link visual signs to numerical values.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {120}, number = {45}, pages = {e2313923120}, pmid = {37903264}, issn = {1091-6490}, support = {NI 618/12-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG)/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Phylogeny ; Brain/physiology ; Neurons/physiology ; Telencephalon ; }, abstract = {Many animals can associate signs with numerical values and use these signs in a goal-directed way during task performance. However, the neuronal basis of this semantic association has only rarely been investigated, and so far only in primates. How mechanisms of number associations are implemented in the distinctly evolved brains of other animal taxa such as birds is currently unknown. Here, we explored this semantic number-sign mapping by recording single-neuron activity in the crows' nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL), a brain structure critically involved in avian numerical cognition. Crows were trained to associate visual shapes with varying numbers of items in a number production task. The responses of many NCL neurons during stimulus presentation reflected the numerical values associated with visual shapes in a behaviorally relevant way. Consistent with the crow's better behavioral performance with signs, neuronal representations of numerical values extracted from shapes were more selective compared to those from dot arrays. The existence of number association neurons in crows points to a phylogenetic preadaptation of the brains of cognitively advanced vertebrates to link visual shapes with numerical meaning.}, }
@article {pmid37896802, year = {2023}, author = {Nath, BK and Das, T and Peters, A and Gupta, SD and Sarker, S and Forwood, JK and Raidal, SR and Das, S}, title = {Australasian Pigeon Circoviruses Demonstrate Natural Spillover Infection.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {15}, number = {10}, pages = {}, pmid = {37896802}, issn = {1999-4915}, mesh = {Animals ; Columbidae ; *Circovirus/genetics ; Phylogeny ; Australia/epidemiology ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Genome, Viral ; *Circoviridae Infections ; *Bird Diseases ; }, abstract = {Pigeon circovirus (PiCV) is considered to be genetically diverse, with a relatively small circular single-stranded DNA genome of 2 kb that encodes for a capsid protein (Cap) and a replication initiator protein (Rep). Australasia is known to be the origin of diverse species of the Order Columbiformes, but limited data on the PiCV genome sequence has hindered phylogeographic studies in this species. To fill this gap, this study was conducted to investigate PiCV in 118 characteristic samples from different birds across Australia using PCR and sequencing. Eighteen partial PiCV Rep sequences and one complete PiCV genome sequence were recovered from reservoir and aberrant hosts. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that PiCV circulating in Australia was scattered across three different subclades. Importantly, one subclade dominated within the PiCV sequenced from Australia and Poland, whereas other PiCV sequenced in this study were more closely related to the PiCV sequenced from China, USA and Japan. In addition, PiCV Rep sequences obtained from clinically affected plumed whistling duck, blue billed duck and Australian magpie demonstrated natural spillover of PiCV unveiled host generalist characteristics of the pigeon circovirus. These findings indicate that PiCV genomes circulating in Australia lack host adapted population structure but demonstrate natural spillover infection.}, }
@article {pmid37894259, year = {2023}, author = {Martelli, L and Fornasiero, D and Scarton, F and Spada, A and Scolamacchia, F and Manca, G and Mulatti, P}, title = {Study of the Interface between Wild Bird Populations and Poultry and Their Potential Role in the Spread of Avian Influenza.}, journal = {Microorganisms}, volume = {11}, number = {10}, pages = {}, pmid = {37894259}, issn = {2076-2607}, abstract = {Water birds play a crucial role in disseminating and amplifying avian influenza viruses (AIVs) in the environment. However, they may have limited interactions with domestic facilities, raising the hypothesis that other wild birds may play the bridging role in introducing AIVs into poultry. An ornithocoenosis study, based on census-transect and camera-trapping methods, was conducted in 2019 in ten poultry premises in northeast Italy to characterize the bird communities and envisage the species that might act as bridge hosts for AIVs. The data collected were explored through a series of multivariate analyses (correspondence analysis and non-metric multidimensional scaling), and biodiversity indices (observed and estimated richness, Shannon entropy and Pielou's evenness). The analyses revealed a high level of complexity in the ornithic population, with 147 censused species, and significant qualitative and quantitative differences in wild bird species composition, both in space and in time. Among these, only a few were observed in close proximity to the farm premises (i.e., Magpies, Blackbirds, Cattle Egrets, Pheasants, Eurasian Collared Doves, and Wood Pigeons), thus suggesting their potential role in spilling over AIVs to poultry; contrarily, waterfowls appeared to be scarcely inclined to close visits, especially during autumn and winter seasons. These findings stress the importance of ongoing research on the wild-domestic bird interface, advocating for a wider range of species to be considered in AIVs surveillance and prevention programs.}, }
@article {pmid37887616, year = {2023}, author = {Bruck, HA and Gupta, SK}, title = {A Retrospective of Project Robo Raven: Developing New Capabilities for Enhancing the Performance of Flapping Wing Aerial Vehicles.}, journal = {Biomimetics (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {8}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {37887616}, issn = {2313-7673}, support = {FA9550-12-1-0158 and FA9550-15-1-0350//United States Air Force Office of Scientific Research/ ; }, abstract = {Flapping Wing Air Vehicles (FWAVs) have proven to be attractive alternatives to fixed wing and rotary air vehicles at low speeds because of their bio-inspired ability to hover and maneuver. However, in the past, they have not been able to reach their full potential due to limitations in wing control and payload capacity, which also has limited endurance. Many previous FWAVs used a single actuator that couples and synchronizes motions of the wings to flap both wings, resulting in only variable rate flapping control at a constant amplitude. Independent wing control is achieved using two servo actuators that enable wing motions for FWAVs by programming positions and velocities to achieve desired wing shapes and associated aerodynamic forces. However, having two actuators integrated into the flying platform significantly increases its weight and makes it more challenging to achieve flight than a single actuator. This article presents a retrospective overview of five different designs from the "Robo Raven" family based on our previously published work. The first FWAVs utilize two servo motors to achieve independent wing control. The basic platform is capable of successfully performing dives, flips, and button hook turns, which demonstrates the potential maneuverability afforded by the independently actuated and controlled wings. Subsequent designs in the Robo Raven family were able to use multifunctional wings to harvest solar energy to overcome limitations on endurance, use on-board decision-making capabilities to perform maneuvers autonomously, and use mixed-mode propulsion to increase payload capacity by exploiting the benefits of fixed and flapping wing flight. This article elucidates how each successive version of the Robo Raven platform built upon the findings from previous generations. The Robo Raven family collectively addresses requirements related to control autonomy, energy autonomy, and maneuverability. We conclude this article by identifying new opportunities for research in avian-scale flapping wing aerial vehicles.}, }
@article {pmid37886251, year = {2023}, author = {Mirzaghavami, M and Sadraei, J and Pirestani, M and Bahadory, S}, title = {The Role of Some Free-Ranging Animals in the Transmission of Multi-Host Species of Cryptosporidium Spp.}, journal = {Iranian journal of parasitology}, volume = {18}, number = {3}, pages = {313-323}, pmid = {37886251}, issn = {1735-7020}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: We aimed to characterize Cryptosporidium spp. in rats, cats, pigeons, and crows.<br><br>METHODS: Fifty-five animal origin Cryptosporidium spp. genome were identified, genotyped and confirmed by nested PCR and of RFLP-PCR analysis as well as sequenced based on 18s rRNA and gp60 genes in Tehran (2012-2019). Finally, the phylogenetic analysis was performed by MEGA software (version 7).<br><br>RESULTS: By the molecular method, Cryptosporidium spp. were detected in 24 (15.2%), 15 (15%), 2 (2%) and 13 (13%) cases of wild rats, cat, pigeon, and crow, respectively. Among the identified species by the RFLP pattern, most isolates were identified as C. parvum (24/157) 17.8% in rats, (15/100) 15% in cats, (13/100) 13%in crew and (2/100) 2% in pigeons; and the rest of the cases were C. muris and C. felis. The results of sequencing did not prove the existence of C. parvum, C. felis, C. muris, and rat genotype. Subtyping of C. parvum was indicated that the dominant subtype family belongs to the IId family and the subtype A20G1 was the most common subtype detected in all hosts while A19G1 was detected in one isolate of cat and pigeon.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Free-ranging animals are infected by species/subtype of Cryptosporidium, which can infect humans. This shows by itself the hygienic importance of the free-ranging animals in urban ecosystems. In the transmission of human cryptosporidiosis, the multi-host Cryptosporidium species such as C. parvum, C. felis, and C. muris can be transferred potentially from these animals to humans.}, }
@article {pmid37883792, year = {2023}, author = {Kirschhock, ME and Nieder, A}, title = {Numerical Representation for Action in Crows Obeys the Weber-Fechner Law.}, journal = {Psychological science}, volume = {34}, number = {12}, pages = {1322-1335}, doi = {10.1177/09567976231201624}, pmid = {37883792}, issn = {1467-9280}, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; Male ; Differential Threshold ; *Crows ; Cognition ; Judgment ; Neurons ; }, abstract = {The psychophysical laws governing the judgment of perceived numbers of objects or events, called the number sense, have been studied in detail. However, the behavioral principles of equally important numerical representations for action are largely unexplored in both humans and animals. We trained two male carrion crows (Corvus corone) to judge numerical values of instruction stimuli from one to five and to flexibly perform a matching number of pecks. Our quantitative analysis of the crows' number production performance shows the same behavioral regularities that have previously been demonstrated for the judgment of sensory numerosity, such as the numerical distance effect, the numerical magnitude effect, and the logarithmical compression of the number line. The presence of these psychophysical phenomena in crows producing number of pecks suggests a unified sensorimotor number representation system underlying the judgment of the number of external stimuli and internally generated actions.}, }
@article {pmid37875131, year = {2024}, author = {Hamilton, JB and Abiri, A and Nicolas, CA and Grant, EJ and Best, NC}, title = {Black Appalachia's Oldest Old: Untold Stories of Experienced Racism and Coping With Religious Practices/Beliefs.}, journal = {The Gerontologist}, volume = {64}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1093/geront/gnad143}, pmid = {37875131}, issn = {1758-5341}, mesh = {Aged, 80 and over ; Female ; Humans ; Adaptation, Psychological ; Black or African American ; *Racism ; *Religion ; United States ; Male ; Aged ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Racism and religion are recognized as prevailing Social Determinants of Health (SDoH). To explore ways in which racism and religion looms in the daily lives of African Americans, we analyzed the experiences of African Americans born during the Jim Crow years and living in the Southern Appalachian Region of the United States.<br><br>RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Twenty-seven African Americans participated in this qualitative descriptive study that utilized criterion sampling, open-ended semistructured interviews, and content analysis to identify a typology of categories related to experienced racism and ways in which religion was used in response to those experiences.<br><br>RESULTS: Participants were an average age of 82.22 years (SD&#x2005;=&#x2005;5.07); primarily women (n&#x2005;=&#x2005;19, 70.4%); married (n&#x2005;=&#x2005;11, 40.7%); junior high school (n&#x2005;=&#x2005;6, 22.2%), high school or general educational diploma (n&#x2005;=&#x2005;7, 25.9%), completed college or professional school (n&#x2005;=&#x2005;6, 22.2%); were retired (n&#x2005;=&#x2005;27, 100.0%); and affiliated with Baptist churches (n&#x2005;=&#x2005;18, 66.7%). Experiences with racism included inequities in healthcare and education, and racially motivated physical violence. Religious practices/beliefs included forgiveness, humility, and humanity.<br><br>DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: Racism experienced by African American participants was likely countered by religious practices/beliefs inspired through intergenerational teachings with affiliations to the Black Church. These experiences of the oldest old) African Americans living in communities of the Southern Appalachia, United States, illustrate the pervasive nature of racism. The religious beliefs that are frequently transmitted intergenerationally through the Black Church are relevant to understand present-day encounters with racism among African Americans and possibly other communities of color.}, }
@article {pmid37864481, year = {2023}, author = {Badás, EP and Bauch, C and Boonekamp, JJ and Mulder, E and Verhulst, S}, title = {Ectoparasite presence and brood size manipulation interact to accelerate telomere shortening in nestling jackdaws.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {32}, number = {24}, pages = {6913-6923}, doi = {10.1111/mec.17177}, pmid = {37864481}, issn = {1365-294X}, support = {8444403//European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under the Marie Sklodowska-Curie/ ; BA 5422/1-1//DFG fellowship/ ; 823.01.009//NWO/ ; 823.01.006//NWO/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Telomere Shortening/genetics ; Stress, Physiological ; Telomere/genetics ; }, abstract = {Early-life conditions impact fitness, but whether the combined effect of extrinsic stressors is additive or synergistic is not well known. This is a major knowledge gap because exposure to multiple stressors is frequent. Telomere dynamics may be instrumental when testing how stressors interact because many factors affect telomere shortening, and telomere shortening predicts survival. We evaluated the effect of manipulated brood size and natural infestation by the carnid fly Carnus hemapterus on nestling growth and telomere shortening of wild jackdaws (Corvus monedula). Telomere length, measured in blood using TRF, shortened on average by 264 bp, and on average, Carnus infection induced more telomere shortening. Further analyses showed that in enlarged broods, nestlings' telomeres shortened more when parasitized, while in reduced broods there was no effect of infection on telomere shortening. We conclude that there is a synergistic effect of number of siblings and Carnus infection on telomere shortening rate: blood-sucking parasites may negatively impact telomeres by increasing cell proliferation and/or physiological stress, and coping with infection may be less successful in enlarged broods with increased sibling competition. Larger nestlings had shorter telomeres independent of age, brood manipulation or infection. Growth was independent of infestation but in enlarged broods, nestlings were lighter at fledging. Our findings indicate that (i) evaluating consequences of early-life environmental conditions in isolation may not yield a full picture due to synergistic effects, and (ii) effects of environmental conditions may be cryptic, for example, on telomeres, with fitness consequences expressed beyond the temporal framework of the study.}, }
@article {pmid37863938, year = {2023}, author = {Pendergraft, LT and Marzluff, JM and Cross, DJ and Shimizu, T and Templeton, CN}, title = {American crows that excel at tool use activate neural circuits distinct from less talented individuals.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {6539}, pmid = {37863938}, issn = {2041-1723}, support = {S10 OD017980/OD/NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; Adult ; Female ; *Crows ; *Tool Use Behavior ; Hippocampus ; }, abstract = {Tools enable animals to exploit and command new resources. However, the neural circuits underpinning tool use and how neural activity varies with an animal's tool proficiency, are only known for humans and some other primates. We use 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography to image the brain activity of naïve vs trained American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) when presented with a task requiring the use of stone tools. As in humans, talent affects the neural circuits activated by crows as they prepare to execute the task. Naïve and less proficient crows use neural circuits associated with sensory- and higher-order processing centers (the mesopallium and nidopallium), while highly proficient individuals increase activity in circuits associated with motor learning and tactile control (hippocampus, tegmentum, nucleus basorostralis, and cerebellum). Greater proficiency is found primarily in adult female crows and may reflect their need to use more cognitively complex strategies, like tool use, to obtain food.}, }
@article {pmid37862096, year = {2023}, author = {Bahafid, E and Bradtmöller, I and Thies, AM and Nguyen, TTON and Gutierrez, C and Desvoyes, B and Stahl, Y and Blilou, I and Simon, RGW}, title = {The Arabidopsis SHORTROOT network coordinates shoot apical meristem development with auxin-dependent lateral organ initiation.}, journal = {eLife}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37862096}, issn = {2050-084X}, mesh = {*Arabidopsis/metabolism ; Meristem ; *Arabidopsis Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Indoleacetic Acids/metabolism ; Transcription Factors/genetics/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Homeodomain Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Cyclins/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Plants produce new organs post-embryonically throughout their entire life cycle. This is due to stem cells present in the shoot and root apical meristems, the SAM and RAM, respectively. In the SAM, stem cells are located in the central zone where they divide slowly. Stem cell daughters are displaced laterally and enter the peripheral zone, where their mitotic activity increases and lateral organ primordia are formed. How the spatial arrangement of these different domains is initiated and controlled during SAM growth and development, and how sites of lateral organ primordia are determined in the peripheral zone is not yet completely understood. We found that the SHORTROOT (SHR) transcription factor together with its target transcription factors SCARECROW (SCR), SCARECROW-LIKE23 (SCL23) and JACKDAW (JKD), promotes formation of lateral organs and controls shoot meristem size. SHR, SCR, SCL23, and JKD are expressed in distinct, but partially overlapping patterns in the SAM. They can physically interact and activate expression of key cell cycle regulators such as CYCLIND6;1 (CYCD6;1) to promote the formation of new cell layers. In the peripheral zone, auxin accumulates at sites of lateral organ primordia initiation and activates SHR expression via the auxin response factor MONOPTEROS (MP) and auxin response elements in the SHR promoter. In the central zone, the SHR-target SCL23 physically interacts with the key stem cell regulator WUSCHEL (WUS) to promote stem cell fate. Both SCL23 and WUS expression are subject to negative feedback regulation from stem cells through the CLAVATA signaling pathway. Together, our findings illustrate how SHR-dependent transcription factor complexes act in different domains of the shoot meristem to mediate cell division and auxin dependent organ initiation in the peripheral zone, and coordinate this activity with stem cell maintenance in the central zone of the SAM.}, }
@article {pmid37857541, year = {2023}, author = {Prinja, S and Bahuguna, P and Singh, MP and Guinness, L and Goyal, A and Aggarwal, V}, title = {Refining the provider payment system of India's government-funded health insurance programme: an econometric analysis.}, journal = {BMJ open}, volume = {13}, number = {10}, pages = {e076155}, pmid = {37857541}, issn = {2044-6055}, mesh = {Humans ; *Insurance, Health ; *Health Care Costs ; Hospital Costs ; Hospitals, Teaching ; Government ; India ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Reimbursement rates in national health insurance schemes are frequently weighted to account for differences in the costs of service provision. To determine weights for a differential case-based payment system under India's publicly financed national health insurance scheme, the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), by exploring and quantifying the influence of supply-side factors on the costs of inpatient admissions and surgical procedures.<br><br>DESIGN: Exploratory analysis using regression-based cost function on data from a multisite health facility costing study-the Cost of Health Services in India (CHSI) Study.<br><br>SETTING: The CHSI Study sample included 11 public sector tertiary care hospitals, 27 public sector district hospitals providing secondary care and 16 private hospitals, from 11 Indian states.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: 521 sites from 57 healthcare facilities in 11 states of India.<br><br>INTERVENTIONS: Medical and surgical packages of PM-JAY.<br><br>The cost per bed-day and cost per surgical procedure were regressed against a range of factors to be considered as weights including hospital location, presence of a teaching function and ownership. In addition, capacity utilisation, number of beds, specialist mix, state gross domestic product, State Health Index ranking and volume of patients across the sample were included as variables in the models. Given the skewed data, cost variables were log-transformed for some models.<br><br>RESULTS: The estimated mean costs per inpatient bed-day and per procedure were 2307 and 10&#x2009;686 Indian rupees, respectively. Teaching status, annual hospitalisation, bed size, location of hospital and average length of hospitalisation significantly determine the inpatient bed-day cost, while location of hospital and teaching status determine the procedure costs. Cost per bed-day of teaching hospitals was 38-143.4% higher than in non-teaching hospitals. Similarly, cost per bed-day was 1.3-89.7% higher in tier 1 cities, and 19.5-77.3% higher in tier 2 cities relative to tier 3 cities, respectively. Finally, cost per surgical procedure was higher by 10.6-144.6% in teaching hospitals than non-teaching hospitals; 12.9-171.7% higher in tier 1 cities; and 33.4-140.9% higher in tier 2 cities compared with tier 3 cities, respectively.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our study findings support and validate the recently introduced differential provider payment system under the PM-JAY. While our results are indicative of heterogeneity in hospital costs, other considerations of how these weights will affect coverage, quality, cost containment, as well as create incentives and disincentives for provider and consumer behaviour, and integrate with existing price mark-ups for other factors, should be considered to determine the future revisions in the differential pricing scheme.}, }
@article {pmid37846601, year = {2023}, author = {Blackburn, G and Ashton, BJ and Thornton, A and Woodiss-Field, S and Ridley, AR}, title = {Cognition mediates response to anthropogenic noise in wild Western Australian magpies (Gmynorhina tibicen dorsalis).}, journal = {Global change biology}, volume = {29}, number = {24}, pages = {6912-6930}, doi = {10.1111/gcb.16975}, pmid = {37846601}, issn = {1365-2486}, support = {//Ada Jackson Irwin Street Commemoration Award/ ; //Australian Government Research Training Program/ ; //Holsworth Wildlife Research Endowment/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Ecosystem ; Australia ; Noise/adverse effects ; Animals, Wild ; Cognition ; *Passeriformes ; }, abstract = {Anthropogenic noise is a pollutant of growing concern, with wide-ranging effects on taxa across ecosystems. Until recently, studies investigating the effects of anthropogenic noise on animals focused primarily on population-level consequences, rather than individual-level impacts. Individual variation in response to anthropogenic noise may result from extrinsic or intrinsic factors. One such intrinsic factor, cognitive performance, varies between individuals and is hypothesised to aid behavioural response to novel stressors. Here, we combine cognitive testing, behavioural focals and playback experiments to investigate how anthropogenic noise affects the behaviour and anti-predator response of Western Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen dorsalis), and to determine whether this response is linked to cognitive performance. We found a significant population-level effect of anthropogenic noise on the foraging effort, foraging efficiency, vigilance, vocalisation rate and anti-predator response of magpies, with birds decreasing their foraging, vocalisation behaviours and anti-predator response, and increasing vigilance when loud anthropogenic noise was present. We also found that individuals varied in their response to playbacks depending on their cognitive performance, with individuals that performed better in an associative learning task maintaining their anti-predator response when an alarm call was played in anthropogenic noise. Our results add to the growing body of literature documenting the adverse effects of anthropogenic noise on wildlife and provide the first evidence for an association between individual cognitive performance and behavioural responses to anthropogenic noise.}, }
@article {pmid37846510, year = {2024}, author = {Blanchet, G and Bellinger, MR and Kearns, AM and Cortes-Rodriguez, N and Masuda, B and Campana, MG and Rutz, C and Fleischer, RC and Sutton, JT}, title = {Reduction of genetic diversity in 'Alalā (Hawaiian crow; Corvus hawaiiensis) between the late 1800s and the late 1900s.}, journal = {The Journal of heredity}, volume = {115}, number = {1}, pages = {32-44}, doi = {10.1093/jhered/esad063}, pmid = {37846510}, issn = {1465-7333}, support = {BB/G023913/2/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Crows/genetics ; Genetic Variation ; Hawaii ; Inbreeding ; Genome ; Endangered Species ; }, abstract = {Genetic and genomic data are increasingly used to aid conservation management of endangered species by providing insights into evolutionary histories, factors associated with extinction risks, and potential for future adaptation. For the 'Alalā, or Hawaiian crow (Corvus hawaiiensis), genetic concerns include negative correlations between inbreeding and hatching success. However, it is unclear if low genetic diversity and inbreeding depression are consequences of a historical population bottleneck, or if 'Alalā had historically low genetic diversity that predated human influence, perhaps as a result of earlier declines or founding events. In this study, we applied a hybridization-based sequence capture to generate a genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) dataset for comparing historical specimens collected in the 1890s, when 'Alalā were more numerous, to samples taken between 1973 and 1998, when 'Alalā population densities were near the lowest documented levels in the wild, prior to all individuals being collected for captive rearing. We found low genome-wide diversity in both sample groups, however, the modern sample group (1973 to 1998 cohort) exhibited relatively fewer polymorphic alleles, a lower proportion of polymorphic loci, and lower observed heterozygosity, consistent with a population decline and potential bottleneck effects. These results combined with a current low population size highlight the importance of continued efforts by conservation managers to mitigate inbreeding and maintain founder representation to preserve what genetic diversity remains.}, }
@article {pmid37835184, year = {2023}, author = {Calonico, K and De La Rosa-Millan, J}, title = {Digestion-Related Enzyme Inhibition Potential of Selected Mexican Medicinal Plants (Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) P.H.Raven, Cnidoscolus aconitifolius and Crotalaria longirostrata).}, journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {12}, number = {19}, pages = {}, pmid = {37835184}, issn = {2304-8158}, abstract = {Medicinal plants offer a valuable source of natural compounds with specific and selective bioactivity. These compounds have been isolated since the mid-nineteenth century and are now commonly used in modern medications. L. octovalvis (Jacq.) P.H.Raven, C. aconitifolius, and C. longirostrata are Mexican medicinal plants consumed regularly, and research has shown that they contain bioactive compounds capable of promoting the inhibition of digestive enzymes. This is noteworthy since enzyme inhibitors are bioactive substances that interact with enzymes, diminishing their activity and thereby contributing to the management of diseases and metabolic disturbances. To investigate the activity of these plants, individual analyses were conducted, assessing their proximal composition, bioactive compounds, and inhibition of α-Amylase, α-Glucosidase, lipase, and pepsin. The results revealed that all three plants exhibited enzymatic inhibition. When comparing the plants, it was determined that C. aconitifolius had the lowest concentration required for a 50% inhibition in α-Amylase, α-Glucosidase, and lipase, as indicated by the IC50 values. For pepsin, C. longirostrata demonstrated the lowest IC50 value. By understanding the bioactive compounds present in these plants, we can establish the relationship they have with enzymatic inhibition, which can be utilized for future investigations.}, }
@article {pmid37834970, year = {2023}, author = {Lee, SK and Kim, MS and Kwon, SH and Chung, BY and Han, SH and Kim, HJ}, title = {Efficacy, Safety, and Subject Satisfaction of PrabotulinumtoxinA for Moderate-to-Severe Crow's Feet: A Phase IV, Multicenter, Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial.}, journal = {Journal of clinical medicine}, volume = {12}, number = {19}, pages = {}, pmid = {37834970}, issn = {2077-0383}, support = {there is no grant number.//Daewoong Pharmaceutical (South Korea)/ ; }, abstract = {PrabotulinumtoxinA has been identified as an effective agent against crow's feet. Our study, which included Korean patients with moderate to severe crow's feet, was undertaken to compare the efficacy and safety of PrabotulinumtoxinA and placebo treatments. Of the 90 study participants, 60 received prabotulinumtoxinA (24 U), whereas 30 received a placebo. The primary outcome assessment included facial wrinkle grading by investigators. At week 4, 69.64% of patients in the prabotulinumtoxinA group exhibited minimal crow's feet severity; in contrast, a 0% improvement was observed in the placebo group (p < 0.0001). At week 12, the improvement rates were 30.36% for prabotulinumtoxinA and 6.90% for the placebo, demonstrating a significant difference (p = 0.0152). Based on the independent review panel's assessment at week 4, the improvement rate was 39.29% in the prabotulinumtoxinA group and 3.45% in the placebo group during maximum smiling. Additionally, patient satisfaction was notably higher in the prabotulinumtoxinA group (32.14%) than in the placebo group (10.34%) at week 4 (p = 0.0289). Both treatments displayed comparable safety profiles, with only mild local reactions reported as ADRs for one patient from the prabotulinumtoxinA group. Thus, prabotulinumtoxinA demonstrates significant potential as a potent and safe remedy for crow's feet.}, }
@article {pmid37829066, year = {2023}, author = {Xu, Z and Zhang, P and Tu, M and Zhang, M and Lai, Y}, title = {Brain optimization with additional study time: potential brain differences between high- and low-performance college students.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1209881}, pmid = {37829066}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {This study investigates potential differences in brain function among high-, average-, and low-performance college students using electroencephalography (EEG). We hypothesize that the increased academic engagement of high-performance students will lead to discernible EEG variations due to the brain's structural plasticity. 61 third-year college students from identical majors were divided into high-performance (n = 20), average-performance (n = 21), and low-performance (n = 20) groups based on their academic achievements. We conducted three EEG experiments: resting state, Sternberg working memory task, and Raven progressive matrix task. Comprehensive analyses of the EEG data from the three experiments focused on power spectral density (PSD) and functional connectivity, with coherence (COH) employed as our primary metric for the latter. The results showed that in all experiments, there were no differences in working memory ability and IQ scores among the groups, and there were no significant differences in the power spectral densities of the delta, theta, alpha1, alpha2, beta, and gamma bands among the groups. Notably, on the Raven test, compared to their high-performing peers, low-performing students showed enhanced functional connectivity in the alpha 1 (8-9 Hz) band that connects the frontal and occipital lobes. We explored three potential explanations for this phenomenon: fatigue, anxiety, and greater cognitive effort required for problem-solving due to inefficient self-regulation and increased susceptibility to distraction. In essence, these insights not only deepen our understanding of the neural basis that anchors academic ability, but also hold promise in guiding interventions that address students' diverse academic needs.}, }
@article {pmid37823489, year = {2023}, author = {Toyoshima, M and Nakaoji, K and Hamada, K and Yamanaka, A and Inaba, Y and Muraoka, K and Tohsuji, E and Sakakibara, K and Saji, N and Jinnin, M}, title = {Analysis of skin aging patterns using a facial imaging system in patients with atopic dermatitis.}, journal = {European journal of dermatology : EJD}, volume = {33}, number = {4}, pages = {383-393}, doi = {10.1684/ejd.2023.4528}, pmid = {37823489}, issn = {1952-4013}, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; *Skin Aging ; *Dermatitis, Atopic/diagnostic imaging ; Face/diagnostic imaging ; Aging ; Skin ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: There are few studies on skin aging in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD).<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To clarify the characteristics of facial skin aging in AD patients.<br><br>MATERIALS &amp; METHODS: Using facial images obtained by a digital imaging system (VISIA evolution), we compared the severity scores for 10 aging signs in 53 women in the AD group and 29 women in the healthy control group, all 35-49 years old.<br><br>RESULTS: The severity scores for fine lines on the forehead, periorbital wrinkles, nasolabial folds, and texture of the mouth contour were significantly higher in the AD group than in the controls. However, in order to exclude a direct effect of dermatitis at the time of measurement, cases with signs of AD at the evaluation site were excluded from the AD group (defined as the AD [non-lesion] group), revealing no statistical significance between the AD (non-lesion) group and the healthy control group for any of the 10 facial signs. Age subset analysis showed that for individuals in their late 40s, the AD (non-lesion) group exhibited significantly higher scores for crow's feet wrinkle and nasolabial fold compared to the healthy control group. Furthermore, these two scores correlated with one other, suggesting that they may be induced by the same factors.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results of this study show that skin aging associated with AD is prominent in areas prone to transient wrinkling by frequent blinking and speaking or facial expressions. Understanding of the need for appropriate AD treatment from a cosmetic perspective may increase patient adherence.}, }
@article {pmid37822735, year = {2023}, author = {Carter, MQ and Quiñones, B and Laniohan, N and Carychao, D and Pham, A and He, X and Cooley, M}, title = {Pathogenicity assessment of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli strains isolated from wild birds in a major agricultural region in California.}, journal = {Frontiers in microbiology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1214081}, pmid = {37822735}, issn = {1664-302X}, abstract = {Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) consists of diverse strains differing in genetic make-up and virulence potential. To better understand the pathogenicity potential of STEC carried by the wildlife, three STEC and one E. coli strains isolated from wild birds near a major agricultural region in California were selected for comparative pathogenomic analyses. Three American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) strains, RM9088, RM9513, and RM10410, belonging to phylogroup A with serotypes O109:H48, O9:H30, and O113:H4, respectively, and a red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) strain RM14516 in phylogroup D with serotype O17:H18, were examined. Shiga toxin genes were identified in RM9088 (stx1a), RM10410 (stx1a + stx2d), and RM14516 (stx2a). Unlike STEC O157:H7 strain EDL933, none of the avian STEC strains harbored the pathogenicity islands OI-122, OI-57, and the locus of enterocyte effacement, therefore the type III secretion system biogenesis genes and related effector genes were absent in the three avian STEC genomes. Interestingly, all avian STEC strains exhibited greater (RM9088 and RM14516) or comparable (RM10410) cytotoxicity levels compared with EDL933. Comparative pathogenomic analyses revealed that RM9088 harbored numerous genes encoding toxins, toxins delivery systems, and adherence factors, including heat-labile enterotoxin, serine protease autotransporter toxin Pic, type VI secretion systems, protein adhesin Paa, fimbrial adhesin K88, and colonization factor antigen I. RM9088 also harbored a 36-Kb high pathogenicity island, which is related to iron acquisition and pathogenicity in Yersinia spp. Strain RM14516 carried an acid fitness island like the one in EDL933, containing a nine gene cluster involved in iron acquisition. Genes encoding extracellular serine protease EspP, subtilase cytotoxin, F1C fimbriae, and inverse autotransporter adhesin IatC were only detected in RM14516, and genes encoding serine protease autotransporter EspI and P fimbriae were only identified in RM10410. Although all curli genes were present in avian STEC strains, production of curli fimbriae was only detected for RM9088 and RM14516. Consistently, strong, moderate, and little biofilms were observed for RM9088, RM14516, and RM10410, respectively. Our study revealed novel combinations of virulence factors in two avian strains, which exhibited high level of cytotoxicity and strong biofilm formation. Comparative pathogenomics is powerful in assessing pathogenicity and health risk of STEC strains.}, }
@article {pmid37818825, year = {2023}, author = {Asrullah, M and Hositanisita, H and L'Hoir, M and Muslimatun, S and Jm Feskens, E and Melse-Boonstra, A}, title = {Intra-uterine exposure to lower maternal haemoglobin concentration is associated with impaired cognitive function in stunted adolescents: results from a 17-year longitudinal cohort study in Indonesia.}, journal = {International journal of food sciences and nutrition}, volume = {74}, number = {8}, pages = {826-835}, doi = {10.1080/09637486.2023.2267792}, pmid = {37818825}, issn = {1465-3478}, mesh = {Female ; Pregnancy ; Humans ; Adolescent ; Child ; Longitudinal Studies ; Indonesia/epidemiology ; Cohort Studies ; *Anemia/epidemiology ; Hemoglobins/analysis ; Cognition ; }, abstract = {The long-term impact of maternal anaemia on cognitive performance remains unknown. Indonesian longitudinal cohort data of 363 paired pregnant mothers and their 10-14-year-old offspring were used to investigate the association between maternal haemoglobin (Hb) concentration and their offspring's cognitive function (assessed by Raven's Progressive Matrices test) during adolescence. The weighted anaemia prevalence was 49.3% in pregnant mothers and 22.2% in adolescents. Adolescents who were stunted, anaemic, or living in a rural area had significantly lower cognitive scores than their counterparts. Maternal Hb was not associated with adolescent cognitive function (β: 0.14; 95%CI: -0.052-0.340). However, the effect of maternal Hb concentration on offspring's cognitive function was modified by stunting status (β, stunted: 0.44; 95%CI: 0.05-0.82; non-stunted: 0.01; 95%CI: -0.02-0.24). This study shows adverse cognitive outcomes at adolescent age are likely multi-causal and can be partially explained by intra-uterine exposure to low maternal Hb concentrations.}, }
@article {pmid37813941, year = {2023}, author = {Graham, BA and Szabo, I and Cicero, C and Strickland, D and Woods, J and Coneybeare, H and Dohms, KM and Burg, TM}, title = {Habitat and climate influence hybridization among three genetically distinct Canada jay (Perisoreus canadensis) morphotypes in an avian hybrid zone complex.}, journal = {Heredity}, volume = {131}, number = {5-6}, pages = {361-373}, pmid = {37813941}, issn = {1365-2540}, mesh = {Animals ; Ecosystem ; Climate ; Hybridization, Genetic ; *Picea/genetics ; *Songbirds ; Canada ; }, abstract = {Examining the frequency and distribution of hybrids across contact zones provide insights into the factors mediating hybridization. In this study, we examined the effect of habitat and climate on hybridization patterns for three phenotypically, genetically, and ecologically distinct groups of the Canada jay (Perisoreus canadensis) in a secondary contact zone in western North America. Additionally, we tested whether the frequency of hybridization involving the three groups (referred to as Boreal, Pacific and Rocky Mountain morphotypes) is similar across the hybrid zones or whether some pairs have hybridized more frequently than others. We reanalyzed microsatellite, mtDNA and plumage data, and new microsatellite and plumage data for 526 individuals to identify putative genetic and phenotypic hybrids. The genetically and phenotypically distinct groups are associated with different habitats and occupy distinct climate niches across the contact zone. Most putative genetic hybrids (86%) had Rocky Mountain ancestry. Hybrids were observed most commonly in intermediate climate niches and in habitats where Engelmann spruce (Picea engelmannii) overlaps broadly with boreal and subalpine tree species. Our finding that hybrids occupy intermediate climate niches relative to parental morphotypes matches patterns for other plant and animal species found in this region. This study demonstrates how habitat and climate influence hybridization patterns in areas of secondary contact and adds to the growing body of research on tri-species hybrid zones.}, }
@article {pmid37810349, year = {2023}, author = {Guo, H}, title = {The evaluation of university management performance using the CS-RBM algorithm.}, journal = {PeerJ. Computer science}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {e1575}, pmid = {37810349}, issn = {2376-5992}, abstract = {Amidst the ongoing higher education reforms in China, the escalated investments in colleges and universities underscore the need for an effective assessment of their performance to ensure sustainable development. However, traditional evaluation methods have proven time-consuming and labor-intensive. In response, a novel approach called CS-RBM (Crow Search Restricted Boltzmann Machine) prediction algorithm has been proposed for the educational management of these institutions. By integrating the CS algorithm and an enhanced RBM algorithm, this method facilitates the scoring of project performance indicators, bolstered by insights from user evaluation form reports. The comprehensive project performance is ultimately derived from this combination. Comparative analysis with the standard particle swarm optimization algorithm on public data sets demonstrates a remarkable 45.6% reduction in prediction errors and an impressive 34.7% increase in iteration speed using the CS-RBM algorithm. The accuracy of the tested data set surpasses 98%, validating the efficacy of the CS-RBM algorithm in achieving precise predictions and effective assessments. Consequently, this innovative approach exhibits promising potential for expediting and enhancing the performance evaluation of colleges and universities, contributing significantly to their sustainable development.}, }
@article {pmid37808414, year = {2023}, author = {Sen Yavuz, B and Yilmaz, MA and Yilmaz, HN and Agrali, OB and Bilsel, SO and Kargul, B}, title = {Assessment of Relationship between Intelligence Quotient and Orthodontic Treatment Need.}, journal = {Acta stomatologica Croatica}, volume = {57}, number = {3}, pages = {248-255}, pmid = {37808414}, issn = {0001-7019}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Low cognitive ability may reduce the ability to understand the importance of oral health and to perform the necessary practices to maintain proper oral hygiene. Early loss of primary teeth following high caries risk may lead to malocclusion of permanent dentition. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the cognitive levels of adolescents and their orthodontic treatment needs.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between January 2018 and May 2018, 200 adolescents aged 10 - 15 who applied to the Pediatric Dentistry Clinic of Marmara University and sought orthodontic treatment were invited to participate in the study. The orthodontic treatment needs of 150 adolescents who agreed to participate were evaluated with the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need - Aesthetic Component and their cognitive levels were evaluated with the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) Test. P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean age (&#xb1; standard deviation) of 126 adolescents (77 females and 49 males) who completed the SPM test was 11.8 (&#xb1; 1.3). There was no consistency between the intellectual level and the need for orthodontic treatment (Kappa value = 0.071, p-value = 0.081). There was no correlation between malocclusion severity and intelligence quotient scores of adolescents (&#x3c1; [rho] = -0.089, p = 0.322). According to Multiple logistic regression results, there was no difference between 'borderline need' (p = 0.059) and 'great need' (p = 0.881) from 'no need' for orthodontic treatment in adolescents with different intelligence quotients.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The results showed no evidence for an association between malocclusion and intelligence quotient.}, }
@article {pmid37801469, year = {2024}, author = {Viviano, A and Mori, E and Manzini, J and Paoletti, E and Hoshika, Y and Cotrozzi, L and Pisuttu, C and Risoli, S and Materassi, A and Moura, BB}, title = {The magpie and the grapes: increasing ozone exposure impacts fruit consumption by a common corvid in a suburban environment.}, journal = {Pest management science}, volume = {80}, number = {11}, pages = {5491-5499}, doi = {10.1002/ps.7819}, pmid = {37801469}, issn = {1526-4998}, mesh = {*Vitis ; *Ozone ; Animals ; *Fruit ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; Air Pollutants/analysis ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The Eurasian magpie Pica pica is a resident bird species able to colonize farmlands and anthropized environments. This corvid shows a wide trophic spectrum by including fruits, invertebrates, small vertebrates and carcasses in its diet. A camera-trap experiment was carried out to test the effect of different ozone (O3) concentrations on potted Vitis vinifera plants, which resulted in different grape consumption rates by suburban birds. The test was performed at an Ozone-Free Air Controlled Exposure (FACE) facility, consisting of nine plots with three ozone (O3) levels: AA (ambient O3 concentration); and two elevated O3 levels, 1.5× AA (ambient air with a 50% increase in O3 concentration) and 2.0× AA (ambient air with a 100% increase in O3 concentration). Camera-traps were located in front of each treatment area and kept active for 24 h day[-1] and for 5 days at a time over a period of 3 months to monitor grape consumption by birds.<br><br>RESULTS: We collected a total of 38 videos. Eurasian magpies were the only grape consumers, with a total of 6.7&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;3.3 passages per hour (mean&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;SD) and no differences across the different O3 treatments. Grapes in the AA treatment were consumed significantly more quickly than those in the 1.5&#xd7; AA treatment, which in turn, were consumed faster than those in the 2.0&#xd7; AA treatment. At 3&#x2009;days from the start of treatment, 94%, 53% and 22% berries from the AA, 1.5&#xd7; AA and 2.0&#xd7; AA treatments had been eaten, respectively. When the O3 was turned off, berries were consumed at the same rate among treatments.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Increasing O3 concentrations limited grape consumption by magpies probably because O3 acted as a deterrent for magpies, although the lower sugar content recorded in the 2.0&#xd7; AA berries did not affect the consumption when O3 was turned off. Our results provided valuable insights to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts in suburban environments. &#xa9; 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley &amp; Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.}, }
@article {pmid37801262, year = {2024}, author = {Aashima,  and Sharma, R}, title = {A Systematic Review of the World's Largest Government Sponsored Health Insurance Scheme for 500 Million Beneficiaries in India: Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana.}, journal = {Applied health economics and health policy}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {17-32}, pmid = {37801262}, issn = {1179-1896}, mesh = {Humans ; *Insurance, Health ; *Hospitals ; Government ; India/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: In pursuit of universal health coverage, India has launched the world's largest government-sponsored health insurance scheme, Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) in 2018. This study aims to provide a holistic review of the scheme's impact since its inception.<br><br>METHODS: We reviewed studies (based on interviews or surveys) published from September 2018 to January 2023, which were retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus database. The main outcomes studied were: (1) awareness; (2) utilization of scheme; (3) experiences; (4) financial protection; and (5) challenges encountered by both beneficiaries and healthcare providers.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 18 studies conducted across 14 states and union territories of India were reviewed. The findings revealed that although PM-JAY has become a familiar name, there remains a low level of awareness regarding various facets of the scheme such as benefits entitled, hospitals empanelled, and services covered. The scheme is benefitting the poor and vulnerable population to access healthcare services that were previously unaffordable to them. However, financial protection provided by the scheme exhibited mixed results. Several challenges were identified, including continued spending by beneficiaries on drugs and diagnostic tests, delays in issuance of beneficiary cards, and co-payments demanded by healthcare providers. Additionally, private hospitals expressed dissatisfaction with low health package rates&#xa0;and&#xa0;delays in claims reimbursement.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Concerted efforts such as population-wide&#xa0;dissemination of&#xa0;clear and complete knowledge of the scheme, providing training to healthcare providers, addressing infrastructural gaps and concerns of healthcare providers, and ensuring appropriate stewardship are imperative to achieve the desired objectives of the scheme in the long-run.}, }
@article {pmid37798388, year = {2023}, author = {Abou El Ela, AA and El-Sehiemy, RA and Shaheen, AM and Shalaby, AS and Mouafi, MT}, title = {Reliability constrained dynamic generation expansion planning using honey badger algorithm.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {16765}, pmid = {37798388}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {*Honey ; Reproducibility of Results ; Algorithms ; Heuristics ; Intelligence ; }, abstract = {Generation expansion planning (GEP) is a complex, highly constrained, non-linear, discrete and dynamic optimization task aimed at determining the optimum generation technology mix of the best expansion alternative for long-term planning horizon. This paper presents a new framework to study the GEP in a multi-stage horizon with reliability constrained. GEP problem is presented to minimize the capital investment costs, salvage value cost, operation and maintenance, and outage cost under several constraints over planning horizon. Added to that, the spinning reserve, fuel mix ratio and reliability in terms of Loss of Load Probability are maintained. Moreover, to decrease the GEP problem search space and reduce the computational time, some modifications are proposed such as the Virtual mapping procedure, penalty factor approach, and the modified of intelligent initial population generation. For solving the proposed reliability constrained GEP problem, a novel honey badger algorithm (HBA) is developed. It is a meta-heuristic search algorithm inspired from the intelligent foraging behavior of honey badger to reach its prey. In HBA, the dynamic search behavior of honey badger with digging and honey finding approaches is formulated into exploration and exploitation phases. Added to that, several modern meta-heuristic optimization algorithms are employed which are crow search algorithm, aquila optimizer, bald eagle search and particle swarm optimization. These algorithms are applied, in a comparative manner, for three test case studies for 6-year, 12-year, and 24-year of short- and long-term planning horizon having five types of candidate units. The obtained results by all these proposed algorithms are compared and validated the effectiveness and superiority of the HBA over the other applied algorithms.}, }
@article {pmid37796585, year = {2024}, author = {Makowski, LM and Troche, SJ}, title = {Can the resting state peak alpha frequency explain the relationship between temporal resolution power and psychometric intelligence?.}, journal = {Behavioral neuroscience}, volume = {138}, number = {1}, pages = {15-29}, doi = {10.1037/bne0000571}, pmid = {37796585}, issn = {1939-0084}, mesh = {Young Adult ; Humans ; Psychometrics ; *Electroencephalography/methods ; *Intelligence ; Eye ; Brain/physiology ; }, abstract = {The temporal resolution power (TRP) hypothesis states that individuals with higher TRP, as reflected by a higher performance on several psychophysical timing tasks, perform better on intelligence tests due to their ability to process information faster and coordinate their mental operations more effectively. It is proposed that these differences in TRP are related to the rate of a master clock based on neural oscillations. The present study aimed to investigate whether the peak alpha frequency (PAF) measured via electroencephalography (EEG) reflects a psychophysiological measure of this rate and its potential role in explaining the relationship between TRP and psychometric intelligence. A sample of 129 young adults (M = 23.0, SD = 3.1) completed a short version of Raven's Advanced Progressives Matrices and three timing tasks. PAF was measured using EEG before each timing task during two resting states with eyes closed (EC) and eyes open (EO), respectively. From these PAF measurements, four latent PAF variables were extracted, differing in resting state (EC, EO) and electrode cluster (frontal/central, parietal/occipital). The results confirmed a strong association between TRP and psychometric intelligence (r = .56, p < .01), as previously reported in other studies. Additionally, we found a positive association between intelligence and a latent PAF variable extracted from frontal/central electrodes in the EO resting state conditions (r = .27, p < .05). However, there was no association between TRP and PAF. This indicates that PAF does not reflect the underlying psychophysiological mechanism that links TRP to intelligence. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid37789130, year = {2024}, author = {van Hasselt, SJ and Coscia, M and Allocca, G and Vyssotski, AL and Meerlo, P}, title = {Seasonal variation in sleep time: jackdaws sleep when it is dark, but do they really need it?.}, journal = {Journal of comparative physiology. B, Biochemical, systemic, and environmental physiology}, volume = {194}, number = {3}, pages = {335-345}, pmid = {37789130}, issn = {1432-136X}, support = {OCENW.KLEIN.240//Nederlandse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Seasons ; *Sleep/physiology ; *Photoperiod ; *Electroencephalography/veterinary ; *Crows/physiology ; Male ; Darkness ; Circadian Rhythm/physiology ; Female ; }, abstract = {Sleep is an important behavioural and physiological state that is ubiquitous throughout the animal kingdom. Birds are an interesting group to study sleep since they share similar sleep features with mammals. Interestingly, sleep time in birds has been shown to vary greatly amongst seasons. To understand the mechanisms behind these variations in sleep time, we did an electro-encephalogram (EEG) study in eight European jackdaws (Coloeus monedula) in winter and summer under outdoor seminatural conditions. To assess whether the amount and pattern of sleep is determined by the outdoor seasonal state of the animals or directly determined by the indoor light-dark cycle, we individually housed them indoors where we manipulated the light-dark (LD) cycles to mimic long winter nights (8:16 LD) and short summer nights (16:8 LD) within both seasons. Jackdaws showed under seminatural outdoor conditions 5 h less sleep in summer compared to winter. During the indoor conditions, the birds rapidly adjusted their sleep time to the new LD cycle. Although they swiftly increased or decreased their sleep time, sleep intensity did not vary. The results indicate that the strong seasonal differences in sleep time are largely and directly driven by the available dark time, rather than an endogenous annual clock. Importantly, these findings confirm that sleep in birds is not a rigid phenomenon but highly sensitive to environmental factors.}, }
@article {pmid37786694, year = {2023}, author = {Wang, X and Kostrzewa, C and Reiner, A and Shen, R and Begg, C}, title = {Adaptation of a Mutual Exclusivity Framework to Identify Driver Mutations within Biological Pathways.}, journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1101/2023.09.19.558469}, pmid = {37786694}, issn = {2692-8205}, abstract = {Distinguishing genomic alterations in cancer genes that have functional impact on tumor growth and disease progression from the ones that are passengers and confer no fitness advantage has important clinical implications. Evidence-based methods for nominating drivers are limited by existing knowledge on the oncogenic effects and therapeutic benefits of specific variants from clinical trials or experimental settings. As clinical sequencing becomes a mainstay of patient care, applying computational methods to mine the rapidly growing clinical genomic data holds promise in uncovering novel functional candidates beyond the existing knowledge-base and expanding the patient population that could potentially benefit from genetically targeted therapies. We propose a statistical and computational method (MAGPIE) that builds on a likelihood approach leveraging the mutual exclusivity pattern within an oncogenic pathway for identifying probabilistically both the specific genes within a pathway and the individual mutations within such genes that are truly the drivers. Alterations in a cancer gene are assumed to be a mixture of driver and passenger mutations with the passenger rates modeled in relationship to tumor mutational burden. A limited memory BFGS algorithm is used to facilitate large scale optimization. We use simulations to study the operating characteristics of the method and assess false positive and false negative rates in driver nomination. When applied to a large study of primary melanomas the method accurately identified the known driver genes within the RTK-RAS pathway and nominated a number of rare variants with previously unknown biological and clinical relevance as prime candidates for functional validation.}, }
@article {pmid37782864, year = {2023}, author = {Jahn, JL and Zubizarreta, D and Chen, JT and Needham, BL and Samari, G and McGregor, AJ and Douglas, MD and Austin, SB and Agénor, M}, title = {Legislating Inequity: Structural Racism In Groups Of State Laws And Associations With Premature Mortality Rates.}, journal = {Health affairs (Project Hope)}, volume = {42}, number = {10}, pages = {1325-1333}, pmid = {37782864}, issn = {2694-233X}, support = {K01 HD103879/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; United States ; *Systemic Racism ; Mortality, Premature ; *Racism ; }, abstract = {Most evaluations of health equity policy have focused on the effects of individual laws. However, multiple laws' combined effects better reflect the crosscutting nature of structurally racist legal regimes. To measure the combined effects of multiple laws, we used latent class analysis, a method for detecting unobserved "subgroups" in a population, to identify clusters of US states based on thirteen structural racism-related legal domains in 2013. We identified three classes of states: one with predominantly harmful laws ([Formula: see text]), another with predominantly protective laws ([Formula: see text]), and a third with a mix of both ([Formula: see text]). Premature mortality rates overall-defined as deaths before age seventy-five per 100,000 population-were highest in states with predominantly harmful laws, which included eighteen states with past Jim Crow laws. This study offers a new method for measuring structural racism on the basis of how groups of laws are associated with premature mortality rates.}, }
@article {pmid37777561, year = {2023}, author = {Ręk, P and Magrath, RD}, title = {The quality of avian vocal duets can be assessed independently of the spatial separation of signallers.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {16438}, pmid = {37777561}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Vocalization, Animal ; Australia ; *Songbirds ; Territoriality ; *Passeriformes ; }, abstract = {Interactions among groups are often mediated through signals, including coordinated calls such as duets, and the degree of temporal coordination within a group can affect signal efficacy. However, in addition to intrinsic duet quality, the spatial arrangement of callers also affects the timing of calls. So, can listeners discriminate temporal effects caused by intrinsic duet quality compared to spatial arrangement? Such discrimination would allow assessment of quality of duets produced by a pair, as distinct from transient extrinsic spatial effects. To address this issue, we studied experimentally the influence of intrinsic duet quality and spatial arrangement on the efficacy of Australian magpie-lark (Grallina cyanoleuca) vocal duets. Breeding pairs duet at varying distances from each other and to multiple neighbours. Coordinated duets are more effective territorial signals than uncoordinated duets, but it remains unclear whether listeners can discriminate the effects of quality and spatial arrangement. Our playback experiment showed that any deviation from perfect regularity of partners' notes reduced duet efficacy, but that lack of coordination due to spatial separation (slower tempo and offset of notes) had a lower effect on efficacy than effects due to intrinsic quality (irregularity). Our results therefore provide experimental evidence that the temporal organisation of group vocalisations could signal coalition quality independently of spatial effects.}, }
@article {pmid37766243, year = {2023}, author = {Alkie, TN and Byrne, AMP and Jones, MEB and Mollett, BC and Bourque, L and Lung, O and James, J and Yason, C and Banyard, AC and Sullivan, D and Signore, AV and Lang, AS and Baker, M and Dawe, B and Brown, IH and Berhane, Y}, title = {Recurring Trans-Atlantic Incursion of Clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 Viruses by Long Distance Migratory Birds from Northern Europe to Canada in 2022/2023.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {15}, number = {9}, pages = {}, pmid = {37766243}, issn = {1999-4915}, mesh = {Animals ; *Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/genetics ; Phylogeny ; Canada/epidemiology ; Birds ; *Influenza A virus ; Europe/epidemiology ; Foxes ; *Influenza in Birds/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {In December 2022 and January 2023, we isolated clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 high-pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) viruses from six American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) from Prince Edward Island and a red fox (Vulpes vulpes) from Newfoundland, Canada. Using full-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, these viruses were found to fall into two distinct phylogenetic clusters: one group containing H5N1 viruses that had been circulating in North and South America since late 2021, and the other one containing European H5N1 viruses reported in late 2022. The transatlantic re-introduction for the second time by pelagic/Icelandic bird migration via the same route used during the 2021 incursion of Eurasian origin H5N1 viruses into North America demonstrates that migratory birds continue to be the driving force for transcontinental dissemination of the virus. This new detection further demonstrates the continual long-term threat of H5N1 viruses for poultry and mammals and the subsequent impact on various wild bird populations wherever these viruses emerge. The continual emergence of clade 2.3.4.4b H5Nx viruses requires vigilant surveillance in wild birds, particularly in areas of the Americas, which lie within the migratory corridors for long-distance migratory birds originating from Europe and Asia. Although H5Nx viruses have been detected at higher rates in North America since 2021, a bidirectional flow of H5Nx genes of American origin viruses to Europe has never been reported. In the future, coordinated and systematic surveillance programs for HPAI viruses need to be launched between European and North American agencies.}, }
@article {pmid37765829, year = {2023}, author = {Perera, JC and Gopalakrishnan, B and Bisht, PS and Chaudhari, S and Sundaramoorthy, S}, title = {A Sustainability-Based Expert System for Additive Manufacturing and CNC Machining.}, journal = {Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {23}, number = {18}, pages = {}, pmid = {37765829}, issn = {1424-8220}, abstract = {The objective of this research study is to develop a set of expert systems that can aid metal manufacturing facilities in selecting binder jetting, direct metal laser sintering, or CNC machining based on viable products, processes, system parameters, and inherent sustainability aspects. For the purposes of this study, cost-effectiveness, energy, and auxiliary material usage efficiency were considered the key indicators of manufacturing process sustainability. The expert systems were developed using the knowledge automation software Exsys Corvid[®]V6.1.3. The programs were verified by analyzing and comparing the sustainability impacts of binder jetting and CNC machining during the fabrication of a stainless steel 316L component. According to the results of this study, binder jetting is deemed to be characterized by more favorable indicators of sustainability in comparison to CNC machining, considering the fabrication of components feasible for each technology.}, }
@article {pmid37754146, year = {2023}, author = {Fan, Y and Yang, H and Wang, Y and Xu, Z and Lu, D}, title = {A Variable Step Crow Search Algorithm and Its Application in Function Problems.}, journal = {Biomimetics (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {8}, number = {5}, pages = {}, pmid = {37754146}, issn = {2313-7673}, support = {52175502//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; LH2023E082//The Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province/ ; 2022-KYYWF-0144//The basic research business fee projects of provincial undergraduate universities in Heilongjiang Province/ ; }, abstract = {Optimization algorithms are popular to solve different problems in many fields, and are inspired by natural principles, animal living habits, plant pollinations, chemistry principles, and physic principles. Optimization algorithm performances will directly impact on solving accuracy. The Crow Search Algorithm (CSA) is a simple and efficient algorithm inspired by the natural behaviors of crows. However, the flight length of CSA is a fixed value, which makes the algorithm fall into the local optimum, severely limiting the algorithm solving ability. To solve this problem, this paper proposes a Variable Step Crow Search Algorithm (VSCSA). The proposed algorithm uses the cosine function to enhance CSA searching abilities, which greatly improves both the solution quality of the population and the convergence speed. In the update phase, the VSCSA increases population diversities and enhances the global searching ability of the basic CSA. The experiment used 14 test functions,2017 CEC functions, and engineering application problems to compare VSCSA with different algorithms. The experiment results showed that VSCSA performs better in fitness values, iteration curves, box plots, searching paths, and the Wilcoxon test results, which indicates that VSCSA has strong competitiveness and sufficient superiority. The VSCSA has outstanding performances in various test functions and the searching accuracy has been greatly improved.}, }
@article {pmid37747941, year = {2023}, author = {Catalán, A and Merondun, J and Knief, U and Wolf, JBW}, title = {Chromatin accessibility, not 5mC methylation covaries with partial dosage compensation in crows.}, journal = {PLoS genetics}, volume = {19}, number = {9}, pages = {e1010901}, pmid = {37747941}, issn = {1553-7404}, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Male ; *Chromatin/genetics ; *Crows/genetics ; Epigenesis, Genetic ; Methylation ; Dosage Compensation, Genetic ; Sex Chromosomes ; }, abstract = {The evolution of genetic sex determination is often accompanied by degradation of the sex-limited chromosome. Male heterogametic systems have evolved convergent, epigenetic mechanisms restoring the resulting imbalance in gene dosage between diploid autosomes (AA) and the hemizygous sex chromosome (X). Female heterogametic systems (AAf Zf, AAm ZZm) tend to only show partial dosage compensation (0.5 < Zf:AAf < 1) and dosage balance (0.5<Zf:ZZm<1). The underlying mechanism remains largely elusive. Here, we quantified gene expression for a total of 15 male and female Eurasian crows (Corvus (corone) spp.) raised under common garden conditions. In addition, we characterized aspects of the regulatory epigenetic landscape quantifying chromatin accessibility (ATAC-seq) and 5mC methylation profiles. Partial dosage balance and compensation was due to female upregulation of Z-linked genes which covaried significantly with increased chromatin accessibility of the female Z chromosome. 5mC methylation was tissue and sex chromosome-specific, but unrelated to dosage. With the exception of the pseudo-autosomal region (PAR), female upregulation of gene expression was evenly spread across the Z chromosome without evidence for regional centers of epigenetic regulation, as has, for example, been suggested for the male hypermethylated region (MHM) in chicken. Our results suggest that partial dosage balance and compensation in female heterogametic systems are tightly linked to chromosome-wide, epigenetic control of the female Z chromosome mediated by differential chromatin accessibility.}, }
@article {pmid37743885, year = {2023}, author = {Viveros-Muñoz, R and Huijse, P and Vargas, V and Espejo, D and Poblete, V and Arenas, JP and Vernier, M and Vergara, D and Suárez, E}, title = {Dataset for polyphonic sound event detection tasks in urban soundscapes: The synthetic polyphonic ambient sound source (SPASS) dataset.}, journal = {Data in brief}, volume = {50}, number = {}, pages = {109552}, pmid = {37743885}, issn = {2352-3409}, abstract = {This paper presents the Synthetic Polyphonic Ambient Sound Source (SPASS) dataset, a publicly available synthetic polyphonic audio dataset. SPASS was designed to train deep neural networks effectively for polyphonic sound event detection (PSED) in urban soundscapes. SPASS contains synthetic recordings from five virtual environments: park, square, street, market, and waterfront. The data collection process consisted of the curation of different monophonic sound sources following a hierarchical class taxonomy, the configuration of the virtual environments with the RAVEN software library, the generation of all stimuli, and the processing of this data to create synthetic recordings of polyphonic sound events with their associated metadata. The dataset contains 5000 audio clips per environment, i.e., 25,000 stimuli of 10 s each, virtually recorded at a sampling rate of 44.1 kHz. This effort is part of the project ``Integrated System for the Analysis of Environmental Sound Sources: FuSA System'' in the city of Valdivia, Chile, which aims to develop a system for detecting and classifying environmental sound sources through deep Artificial Neural Network (ANN) models.}, }
@article {pmid37731881, year = {2023}, author = {Patiz, B and Bayraktar, S}, title = {Evaluation of neuropsychological characteristics and attention bias in juvenile offenders, juvenile victims, and juveniles who have not participated in the criminal justice system.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1229044}, pmid = {37731881}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The increasing inclusion of children in the criminal justice system as "juvenile offenders" and "juvenile victims" has recently emerged as a severe and multifaceted problem. This study evaluates whether juvenile offenders differ from juveniles who have not participated in the criminal justice system and juvenile victims regarding executive function skills and attentional bias.<br><br>METHOD: The participant group comprised 85 children aged 12-18, and the study setting was Turkey, utilizing one control group and two treatment groups with open criminal case files in Antalya Courthouse. The first treatment group consisted of 30 juvenile offenders; the second consisted of 30 juvenile victims. The control group consisted of 25 juveniles who were not juvenile offenders or victims. In this context, children's executive functions were measured with the short-form Barratt Impulsivity Scale, the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices Test, the TBAG-form Stroop test, the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, and the Istanbul 5 Cube Planning Test. Attentional bias was measured using a dot-probe task. Illiteracy, intellectual or developmental disability, and being a non-native Turkish speaker were the exclusion criteria for all three groups.<br><br>RESULTS: The study found that the scores of the juvenile offender group on the Barratt Impulsivity Scale were significantly higher than the children in the juvenile victim group and the children in the control group. For other tests measuring executive functions, the control group's scores were significantly higher than juvenile offenders and juvenile victims. Regarding attentional bias, the children in the control group exhibited less attentional bias to negative stimuli than the juvenile offenders and victims.<br><br>DISCUSSION: Researchers have generally addressed the reasons that push children to crime and become victims of crime through individual, familial, and environmental reasons. However, the number of studies investigating the neuropsychological characteristics of children dragged into crime is relatively limited in our country. In addition, there is no study comparing the executive functions and attentional bias of children who are dragged into crime, victimized children, and children without a history of being dragged into crime and victimization. In this context, this study can highlight important implications for the judicial system regarding juvenile delinquency interventions.}, }
@article {pmid37725418, year = {2023}, author = {Lau, RC and Anderson, PJ and Wiley, JF and Huang, D and Surjatin, F and McIntosh, P and Gathercole, S and Spencer-Smith, M}, title = {Working Memory Training for Children Using the Adaptive, Self-Select, and Stepwise Approaches to Setting the Difficulty Level of Training Activities: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.}, journal = {JMIR research protocols}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {e47496}, pmid = {37725418}, issn = {1929-0748}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: A common yet untested assumption of cognitive training in children is that activities should be adaptive, with difficulty adjusted to the individual's performance in order to maximize improvements on untrained tasks (known as transfer). Working memory training provides the ideal testbed to systematically examine this assumption as it is one of the most widely studied domains in the cognitive training literature, and is critical for children's learning, including following instructions and reasoning.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: This trial aimed to examine children's outcomes of working memory training using adaptive, self-select (child selects difficulty level), and stepwise (difficulty level increases incrementally) approaches to setting the difficulty of training activities compared to an active control condition immediately and 6-month postintervention. While the aim is exploratory, we hypothesized that children allocated to a working memory training condition would show greater improvements: (1) on near transfer measures compared to intermediate and far transfer measures and (2) immediately postintervention compared to 6-month postintervention.<br><br>METHODS: This double-blinded, active-controlled, parallel-group randomized trial aimed to recruit 128 children aged 7 to 11 years from 1 metropolitan primary school in Melbourne, Australia. Following baseline testing, children were randomized into 1 of 4 conditions: adaptive, self-select, or stepwise working memory training, or active control. An experimental intervention embedded in Minecraft was developed for teachers to deliver in class over 2 consecutive weeks (10 &#xd7; 20-minute sessions). The working memory training comprised 2 training activities with processing demands similar to daily activities: backward span and following instructions. The control comprised creative activities. Pre- and postintervention, children completed a set of working memory tests (near and intermediate transfer) and the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (far transfer) to determine training outcomes, as well as motivation questionnaires to determine if motivations toward learning and the intervention were similar across conditions. Caregivers completed the ADHD-Rating Scale-5 to measure their child's attention (far transfer). Statistical analysis will include traditional null hypothesis significance testing and Bayesian methods to quantify evidence for both the null and alternative hypotheses.<br><br>RESULTS: Data collection concluded in December 2022. Data are currently being processed and analyzed.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This trial will determine whether the adaptive approach to setting the difficulty of training activities maximizes cognitive training outcomes for children. This trial has several strengths: it adopts best practices for cognitive training studies (design, methods, and analysis plan); uses a range of measures to detect discrete levels of transfer; has a 6-month postintervention assessment; is appropriately powered; and uses an experimental working memory training intervention based on our current understanding of the cognitive mechanisms of training. Findings will inform future research and design of cognitive training interventions and highlight the value of the evidence-based principles of cognitive training.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, ACTRN12621000990820; https://www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12621000990820.aspx.<br><br>DERR1-10.2196/47496.}, }
@article {pmid37717468, year = {2023}, author = {Elman, C and Cunningham, SA and Howard, VJ and Judd, SE and Bennett, AM and Dupre, ME}, title = {Birth in the U.S. Plantation South and Racial Differences in all-cause mortality in later life.}, journal = {Social science &amp; medicine (1982)}, volume = {335}, number = {}, pages = {116213}, pmid = {37717468}, issn = {1873-5347}, support = {P2C HD065563/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; P30 AG034424/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; U01 NS041588/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Child ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; Race Factors ; Stroke/mortality ; White ; *Black or African American ; Southeastern United States ; *Mortality ; Agriculture ; Birth Setting ; }, abstract = {The American South has been characterized as a Stroke Belt due to high cardiovascular mortality. We examine whether mortality rates and race differences in rates reflect birthplace exposure to Jim Crow-era inequalities associated with the Plantation South. The plantation mode of agricultural production was widespread through the 1950s when older adults of today, if exposed, were children. We use proportional hazards models to estimate all-cause mortality in Non-Hispanic Black and White birth cohorts (1920-1954) in a sample (N = 21,941) drawn from REasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS), a national study designed to investigate Stroke Belt risk. We link REGARDS data to two U.S. Plantation Censuses (1916, 1948) to develop county-level measures that capture the geographic overlap between the Stroke Belt, two subregions of the Plantation South, and a non-Plantation South subregion. Additionally, we examine the life course timing of geographic exposure: at birth, adulthood (survey enrollment baseline), neither, or both portions of life. We find mortality hazard rates higher for Black compared to White participants, regardless of birthplace, and for the southern-born compared to those not southern-born, regardless of race. Race-specific models adjusting for adult Stroke Belt residence find birthplace-mortality associations fully attenuated among White-except in one of two Plantation South subregions-but not among Black participants. Mortality hazard rates are highest among Black and White participants born in this one Plantation South subregion. The Black-White mortality differential is largest in this birthplace subregion as well. In this subregion, the legacy of pre-Civil War plantation production under enslavement was followed by high-productivity plantation farming under the southern Sharecropping System.}, }
@article {pmid37708722, year = {2023}, author = {Becker, D and Meisenberg, G and Dutton, E and Bakhiet, SFA and Alfayez, FA and Essa, YAS}, title = {International differences in the speed of cognitive development: A systematic examination of the existence of the Simber Effect.}, journal = {Acta psychologica}, volume = {240}, number = {}, pages = {104015}, doi = {10.1016/j.actpsy.2023.104015}, pmid = {37708722}, issn = {1873-6297}, mesh = {Child ; Humans ; Child, Preschool ; Adult ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Intelligence Tests ; *Intelligence ; *Cognition ; }, abstract = {The Simber Effect refers to the phenomenon whereby, in Arabic countries, young children have an IQ that is little different from that of Western children but that these differences increase throughout childhood culminating in a difference of around 20 points by adulthood. The true nature of this phenomenon is revealed by an examination of 125 samples from all around the globe measured with Raven's Progressive Matrices. We show that in many cases different speeds of cognitive development increase the IQ score differences between countries mostly between 4 and 9 years of age, and that these increases can in part be explained by poor environmental conditions. However, the patterns are not completely clear, either in terms of regularity or strengths. Methodological problems, in particular the cross-sectional designs of the included samples, as well as the significance of the Simber Effect for country comparisons in intelligence are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid37696804, year = {2023}, author = {Kings, M and Arbon, JJ and McIvor, GE and Whitaker, M and Radford, AN and Lerner, J and Thornton, A}, title = {Wild jackdaws can selectively adjust their social associations while preserving valuable long-term relationships.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {5103}, pmid = {37696804}, issn = {2041-1723}, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Crows ; Cognition ; Exercise ; Knowledge ; Learning ; }, abstract = {Influential theories of the evolution of cognition and cooperation posit that tracking information about others allows individuals to adjust their social associations strategically, re-shaping social networks to favour connections between compatible partners. Crucially, to our knowledge, this has yet to be tested experimentally in natural populations, where the need to maintain long-term, fitness-enhancing relationships may limit social plasticity. Using a social-network-manipulation experiment, we show that wild jackdaws (Corvus monedula) learned to favour social associations with compatible group members (individuals that provided greater returns from social foraging interactions), but resultant change in network structure was constrained by the preservation of valuable pre-existing relationships. Our findings provide insights into the cognitive basis of social plasticity and the interplay between individual decision-making and social-network structure.}, }
@article {pmid37695418, year = {2023}, author = {Wahl, B and Nama, N and Pandey, RR and Garg, T and Mishra, AM and Srivastava, S and Ali, S and Verma, SK and Erchick, DJ and Sauer, M and Venkatesh, U and Koparkar, A and Kishore, S}, title = {Neonatal, Infant, and Child Mortality in India: Progress and Future Directions.}, journal = {Indian journal of pediatrics}, volume = {90}, number = {Suppl 1}, pages = {1-9}, pmid = {37695418}, issn = {0973-7693}, mesh = {Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Child ; Humans ; *Child Mortality ; *Child Health ; India/epidemiology ; Infant Mortality ; }, abstract = {In India, considerable progress has been made in reducing child mortality rates. Despite this achievement, wide disparities persist across and socio-economic strata, and persistent challenges, such as malnutrition, poor sanitation, and lack of clean water. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the state of child health in India, examining key risk factors and causes of child mortality, assessing the coverage of child health interventions, and highlighting critical public health programs and policies. The authors also discuss future directions and recommendations for bolstering ongoing efforts to improve child health. These include state- and region-specific interventions, prioritizing social determinants of health, strengthening data systems, leveraging existing programs like the National Health Mission (NHM) and Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), and the proposed Public Health Management Cadre (PHMC). The authors argue that reducing child mortality requires not only scaled-up interventions but a comprehensive approach that addresses all dimensions of health, from social determinants to system strengthening.}, }
@article {pmid37694318, year = {2023}, author = {Erlandson, E and Ramirez, C and Dean, W}, title = {Medicine shouldn't be this hard: The intersection of physician moral injury and patient healthcare experience in pediatric complex care.}, journal = {Journal of pediatric rehabilitation medicine}, volume = {16}, number = {3}, pages = {443-447}, doi = {10.3233/PRM-230027}, pmid = {37694318}, issn = {1875-8894}, mesh = {Humans ; Child ; *Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic ; *Physicians ; Electronic Health Records ; Delivery of Health Care ; }, abstract = {Dr. Jay Neufeld's story in If I Betray These Words is a detailed account of one physician's catastrophic journey through moral injury when caring for pediatric patients with complex medical conditions [1]. Many clinicians may recognize Jay's journey in their own experiences, but what deserves parallel consideration are the journeys of patients and families when they are accompanied by physicians at risk of moral injury. This case study illustrates the tight link between drivers of physician moral injury and patients' negative healthcare experiences. These include (1) decisions directed by health insurance regulations and prior authorizations; (2) the electronic medical record (EMR); and (3) healthcare systems focused on revenue generation.}, }
@article {pmid37680962, year = {2023}, author = {Yang, R and Egan, S and Gao, H and Brice, B and Berto, BP}, title = {Morphological and molecular characterization of Isospora elliotae n. sp. (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) from the Australian magpie Gymnorhina tibicen (Latham, 1801) (Passeriformes: Artamidae) in Western Australia.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {13}, number = {9}, pages = {e10505}, pmid = {37680962}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {A new coccidian species, Isospora elliotae n. sp., from the Australian magpie Gymnorhina tibicen (Latham, 1801) in Western Australia, is described and characterized morphologically and molecularly. Microscopic analysis of a faecal sample identified subspheroidal oocysts (n = 20), 20-22 × 18-20 (20.7 × 18.7); length/width (L/W) ratio 1.05-1.14 (1.10). Wall bi-layered, 1.0-1.3 (1.2) thick, outer layer smooth, c. 2/3 of total thickness. Micropyle and oocyst residuum absent, but usually two polar granules are present. Sporocysts (n = 28) ovoidal, 12-13 × 9-11 (12.6 × 9.7); L/W ratio 1.22-1.35 (1.30). Stieda body present, flattened to half-moon-shaped, c. 0.5 deep × 2.0 wide; sub-Stieda indistinct or barely discernible, c. 1.0 deep × 2.5 wide; para-Stieda body absent; sporocyst residuum present, composed of granules dispersed among the sporozoites. Sporozoites vermiform, with anterior and posterior refractile bodies and nucleus. Segments of three gene loci (18S rRNA, 28S rRNA and COI) were sequenced and I. elliotae n. sp. exhibited 99.8% genetic similarity to Isospora sp. MAH-2013a (KF648870) followed by 99.7% genetic similarity to Isospora neochmiae (Yang, Brice &amp; Ryan, 2016) (KT224380) at the 18S rRNA gene locus. It shared 97.0% genetic similarity with an unnamed Isospora sp. (AY283852) at the 28S rRNA gene locus and it also shared the highest genetic similarity of 99.8% with the unnamed Isospora sp. from an American crow (OL999120) at the COI gene locus. Based on morphological and molecular data, this isolate is a new species named as I. elliotae n. sp.}, }
@article {pmid37678225, year = {2024}, author = {Hwang, K}, title = {Crow's Feet in Men: A Symbol of Achievements Left Behind.}, journal = {The Journal of craniofacial surgery}, volume = {35}, number = {1}, pages = {274}, doi = {10.1097/SCS.0000000000009730}, pmid = {37678225}, issn = {1536-3732}, mesh = {Male ; Humans ; *Skin Aging ; Eye ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; }, }
@article {pmid37676486, year = {2023}, author = {Lodjak, J and Boonekamp, J and Lendvai, &#xc1;Z and Verhulst, S}, title = {Short- and long-term effects of nutritional state on IGF-1 levels in nestlings of a wild passerine.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {203}, number = {1-2}, pages = {27-35}, pmid = {37676486}, issn = {1432-1939}, support = {PUTJD700//Eesti Teadusagentuur/ ; MOBTP169//Eesti Teadusagentuur/ ; K139021//National Research, Development and Innovation Office (HU)/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Insulin-Like Growth Factor I/metabolism ; Nutritional Status ; *Passeriformes ; }, abstract = {Growth trajectories of young animals are intimately connected to their fitness prospects, but we have little knowledge of growth regulation mechanisms, particularly in the wild. Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) is a central hormone in regulating resource allocation, with higher IGF-1 levels resulting in more growth. IGF-1 levels generally increase in conjunction with nutritional state, but whether IGF-1 levels are adjusted in response to current nutrient availability or to the nutrient availability integrated over a longer term is not well known. We tested for such effects by supplementary feeding the jackdaw (Corvus monedula) nestlings in experimentally reduced or enlarged broods with either water (control) or a food solution; these manipulations have long- and short-term effects on the nutritional state, respectively. Baseline plasma IGF-1 levels were higher in reduced broods. Food supplementation induced an increase in plasma IGF-1 levels measured one hour later, and this effect was significantly more substantial in nestlings in reduced broods. Changes in plasma IGF-1 levels increased with increased retention of the supplementary food, which was higher in reduced broods, explaining the stronger IGF-1 response. Thus, IGF-1 levels respond to short-term variations in the nutritional state, but this effect is amplified by longer-term variations in the nutritional state. We discuss our findings using a graphical model that integrates the results of the two treatments.}, }
@article {pmid37675830, year = {2023}, author = {Garcia-Raventós, A and Muñoz-Mérida, A and Lapiedra, O and Unzeta, M and Ferrandiz-Rovira, M and Sol, D}, title = {Identification of sex-linked SNP markers in wild populations of monomorphic birds.}, journal = {Molecular ecology resources}, volume = {23}, number = {8}, pages = {1905-1913}, doi = {10.1111/1755-0998.13862}, pmid = {37675830}, issn = {1755-0998}, support = {CGL2017-90033-P//Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovaci&#xf3;n/ ; PID2020-119514GB-I00 (MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033)//Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovaci&#xf3;n/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; Animals ; Reproducibility of Results ; Genotype ; *Birds/genetics ; Heterozygote ; *Sex Characteristics ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; }, abstract = {Single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis is a powerful tool for population genetics, pedigree reconstruction and phenotypic trait mapping. However, the untapped potential of SNP markers to discriminate the sex of individuals in species with reduced sexual dimorphism or of individuals during immature stages remains a largely unexplored avenue. Here, we developed a novel protocol for molecular sexing of birds based on the detection of unique Z- and W-linked SNP markers. Our method is based on the identification of two unique loci, one in each sexual chromosome. Individuals are considered males when they show no calls for the W-linked SNP and are heterozygous or homozygous for the Z-linked SNP, while females exhibit both Z- and W-linked SNP calls. We validated the method in the Jackdaw (Corvus monedula). The reduced sexual dimorphism in this species makes it difficult to identify the sex of individuals in the wild. We assessed the reliability of the method using 36 individuals of known sex and found that their sex was correctly assigned in 100% of cases. The sex-linked markers also proved to be widely applicable for discriminating males and females from a sample of 927 genotyped individuals at different maturity stages, with an accuracy of 99.5%. Since SNP markers are increasingly used in quantitative genetic analyses of wild populations, the approach we propose has great potential to be integrated into broader genetic research programmes without the need for additional sexing techniques.}, }
@article {pmid37675691, year = {2023}, author = {Pawar, SD and Kode, SS and Keng, SS and Tare, DS and Pande, SA}, title = {Spatio-temporal distribution &amp; seasonality of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 &amp; H5N8 outbreaks in India, 2006-2021.}, journal = {The Indian journal of medical research}, volume = {158}, number = {2}, pages = {113-118}, pmid = {37675691}, issn = {0975-9174}, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Influenza in Birds/epidemiology ; *Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype ; *Influenza A Virus, H5N8 Subtype ; *Influenza A Virus, H9N2 Subtype ; Disease Outbreaks ; Animals, Wild ; Birds ; Poultry ; India/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND &amp; OBJECTIVES: The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 and H5N8 viruses have been one of the leading causes of avian diseases worldwide, resulting in severe economic losses and posing potential zoonotic risk. There are no reports on the correlation of the seasonality of H5N1 and H5N8 viruses with the migratory bird season in India, along with the species affected. The present report describes the distribution and seasonality of HPAI outbreaks in India from 2006 to 2021.<br><br>METHODS: The data on the occurrence and locations of outbreaks in India and affected bird species were collated from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations database and grouped by month and year. The distribution and seasonality of HPAI H5N1 and H5N8 viruses were analyzed.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 284 H5N1 outbreaks were reported since 2006, with a surge in 2021. The initial outbreaks of H5N1 were predominantly in poultry. Since 2016, 57 outbreaks of H5N8 were also reported, predominantly in wild birds. Most of the outbreaks of HPAI were reported from post monsoon onwards till pre-summer season (i.e. between October and March) with their peak in winter, in January. Apart from poultry, the bird species such as owl, Indian peafowl, lesser adjutant, crows and wild migratory birds such as demoiselle crane, northern pintail and bar-headed goose were positive for HPAI.<br><br>Such studies on the seasonality of HPAI outbreaks would help in the development of prevention and control strategies. The recent human infections of H5N1 and H9N2 viruses highlight the need to strengthen surveillance in wild, resident, migratory birds and in poultry along with One Health studies in India.}, }
@article {pmid37671798, year = {2023}, author = {Li, J and Arnold, WA and Hozalski, RM}, title = {Spatiotemporal Variability in N-Nitrosodimethylamine Precursor Levels in a Watershed Impacted by Agricultural Activities and Municipal Wastewater Discharges and Effects of Lime Softening.}, journal = {Environmental science &amp; technology}, volume = {57}, number = {37}, pages = {13959-13969}, doi = {10.1021/acs.est.3c01767}, pmid = {37671798}, issn = {1520-5851}, mesh = {*Dimethylnitrosamine ; *Wastewater ; Water Softening ; Water ; }, abstract = {The Crow River, a tributary of the Mississippi River in Minnesota, U.S.A., that is impacted by agricultural activities and municipal wastewater discharges, was sampled approximately monthly at 12 locations over 18 months to investigate temporal and spatial variations in N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) precursor levels. NDMA precursors were quantified primarily by measuring NDMA formed under the low chloramine dose uniform formation conditions protocol (NDMAUFC) and occasionally using the high dose formation potential protocol (NDMAFP). Raw water NDMAUFC concentrations (2.2 to 128 ng/L) exhibited substantial temporal variation but relatively little spatial variation. An increase in NDMAUFC was observed for 126 of 169 water samples after lime-softening treatment. A kinetic model indicates that under chloramine-limited UFC test conditions, the increase in NDMAUFC can be attributed to a decrease in competition between precursors and natural organic matter (NOM) for chloramines and reduced interactions of precursors with NOM. NDMAUFC concentrations correlated positively with dissolved nitrogen concentration (ρ = 0.44, p < 0.01) when excluding the spring snowmelt period and negatively correlated with dissolved organic carbon concentration (ρ = -0.47, p < 0.01). Overall, NDMA precursor levels were highly dynamic and strongly affected by lime-softening treatment.}, }
@article {pmid37665095, year = {2023}, author = {Murry, VM and Nyanamba, JM and Hanebutt, R and Debreaux, M and Gastineau, KAB and Goodwin, AKB and Narisetti, L}, title = {Critical examination of resilience and resistance in African American families: Adaptive capacities to navigate toxic oppressive upstream waters.}, journal = {Development and psychopathology}, volume = {35}, number = {5}, pages = {2113-2131}, doi = {10.1017/S0954579423001037}, pmid = {37665095}, issn = {1469-2198}, mesh = {Humans ; *Black or African American/psychology ; *Racism/ethnology/psychology ; *Resilience, Psychological ; *Family/ethnology/psychology ; }, abstract = {African American families navigate not only everyday stressors and adversities but also unique sociocultural stressors (e.g., "toxic upstream waters" like oppression). These adverse conditions are consequences of the historical vestiges of slavery and Jim Crow laws, often manifested as inequities in wealth, housing, wages, employment, access to healthcare, and quality education. Despite these challenges, African American families have developed resilience using strength-based adaptive coping strategies, to some extent, to filter these waters. To advance the field of resilience research, we focused on the following questions: (1) what constitutes positive responses to adversity?; (2) how is resilience defined conceptually and measured operationally?; (3) how has the field of resilience evolved?; (4) who defines what, when, and how responses are manifestations of resilience, instead of, for example, resistance? How can resistance, which at times leads to positive adaptations, be incorporated into the study of resilience?; and (5) are there case examples that demonstrate ways to address structural oppression and the pernicious effects of racism through system-level interventions, thereby changing environmental situations that sustain toxic waters requiring acts of resilience to survive and thrive? We end by exploring how a re-conceptualization of resilience requires a paradigm shift and new methodological approaches to understand ways in which preventive interventions move beyond focusing on families' capacity to navigate oppression and target systems and structures that maintain these toxic waters.}, }
@article {pmid37661072, year = {2023}, author = {Verma, AK and Kumar, M and Murugkar, HV and Nagarajan, S and Tosh, C and Namdeo, P and Singh, R and Mishra, S and Senthilkumar, D and Singh, VP and Sanyal, A}, title = {Highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) infection in crows through ingestion of infected crow carcasses.}, journal = {Microbial pathogenesis}, volume = {183}, number = {}, pages = {106330}, doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106330}, pmid = {37661072}, issn = {1096-1208}, mesh = {Animals ; *Influenza in Birds ; *Crows ; *Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype ; *Influenza A virus ; Paralysis ; Eating ; }, abstract = {The present study was aimed to investigate the role of cannibalism in transmission of H5N1 avian influenza virus to house crows (Corvus splendens). Four crows were intranasally inoculated with 10[8.0] EID50 (A/crow/India/01CA249/2021) H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus and were observed for 14 days for any overt signs of illness. Two of the infected crows showed signs of wing paralysis, incoordination, and torticollis. For cannibalism experiment, two crows showing clinical signs were euthanized on 14th day post-infection (dpi) and were kept in the isolator and four naïve healthy crows were introduced along with the euthanized crows. The viscera from the infected carcasses were eaten by all the four crows. Oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs were collected up to 14 days to assess virus excretion. All four crows showed clinical signs viz., dullness, reluctance to move with ruffled feathers on 6th day post cannibalism along with neurological signs including incoordination and paralysis of the wings. All the crows gradually recovered after showing clinical signs and were euthanized on 21st day of observation period. Virus excretion was observed from 3rd to 11th day post cannibalism through both oropharyngeal and cloacal routes with maximum shedding through oropharyngeal route. The virus was isolated from lungs and trachea of one the infected crows at 21st day after euthanasia. All the four crows seroconverted against H5N1 virus infection at 14th day post cannibalism. Our study confirms the transmission of H5N1 virus in crows through cannibalism and highlights how H5N1 virus might circulate in a crow colony once they become infected.}, }
@article {pmid37640493, year = {2023}, author = {Mohanty, SK and Upadhyay, AK and Maiti, S and Mishra, RS and Kämpfen, F and Maurer, J and O'Donnell, O}, title = {Public health insurance coverage in India before and after PM-JAY: repeated cross-sectional analysis of nationally representative survey data.}, journal = {BMJ global health}, volume = {8}, number = {8}, pages = {}, pmid = {37640493}, issn = {2059-7908}, mesh = {Humans ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Public Health ; India ; *Insurance Coverage ; Universal Health Insurance ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The provision of non-contributory public health insurance (NPHI) to marginalised populations is a critical step along the path to universal health coverage. We aimed to assess the extent to which Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)-potentially, the world's largest NPHI programme-has succeeded in raising health insurance coverage of the poorest two-fifths of the population of India.<br><br>METHODS: We used nationally representative data from the National Family Health Survey on 633 699 and 601 509 households in 2015-2016 (pre-PM-JAY) and 2019-2021 (mostly, post PM-JAY), respectively. We stratified by urban/rural and estimated NPHI coverage nationally, and by state, district and socioeconomic categories. We decomposed coverage variance between states, districts, and households and measured socioeconomic inequality in coverage. For Uttar Pradesh, we tested whether coverage increased most in districts where PM-JAY had been implemented before the second survey and whether coverage increased most for targeted poorer households in these districts.<br><br>RESULTS: We estimated that NPHI coverage increased by 11.7 percentage points (pp) (95% CI 11.0% to 12.4%) and 8.0 pp (95% CI 7.3% to 8.7%) in rural and urban India, respectively. In rural areas, coverage increased most for targeted households and pro-rich inequality decreased. Geographical inequalities in coverage narrowed. Coverage did not increase more in states that implemented PM-JAY. In Uttar Pradesh, the coverage increase was larger by 3.4 pp (95% CI 0.9% to 6.0%) and 4.2 pp (95% CI 1.2% to 7.1%) in rural and urban areas, respectively, in districts exposed to PM-JAY and the increase was 3.5 pp (95% CI 0.9% to 6.1%) larger for targeted households in these districts.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The introduction of PM-JAY coincided with increased public health insurance coverage and decreased inequality in coverage. But the gains cannot all be plausibly attributed to PM-JAY, and they are insufficient to reach the goal of universal coverage of the poor.}, }
@article {pmid37639294, year = {2023}, author = {Hutton, HE and Aggarwal, S and Gillani, A and Chander, G}, title = {A Digital Counselor-Delivered Intervention for Substance Use Among People With HIV: Development and Usability Study.}, journal = {JMIR formative research}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {e40260}, pmid = {37639294}, issn = {2561-326X}, support = {K24 AA027483/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; UM1 AI068636/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Substance use disorders are prevalent and undertreated among people with HIV. Computer-delivered interventions (CDIs) show promise in expanding reach, delivering evidence-based care, and offering anonymity. Use in HIV clinic settings may overcome access barriers. Incorporating digital counselors may increase CDI engagement, and thereby improve health outcomes.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: We aim to develop and pilot a digital counselor-delivered brief intervention for people with HIV who use drugs, called "C-Raven," which is theory grounded and uses evidence-based practices for behavior change.<br><br>METHODS: Intervention mapping was used to develop the CDI including a review of the behavior change research in substance use, HIV, and digital counselors. We conducted in-depth interviews applying the situated-information, motivation, and behavior skills model and culturally adapting the content for local use with people with HIV. With a user interaction designer, we created various digital counselors and CDI interfaces. Finally, a mixed methods approach using in-depth interviews and quantitative assessments was used to assess the usability, acceptability, and cultural relevance of the intervention content and the digital counselor.<br><br>RESULTS: Participants found CDI easy to use, useful, relevant, and motivating. A consistent suggestion was to provide more information about the negative impacts of drug use and the interaction of drug use with HIV. Participants also reported that they learned new information about drug use and its health effects. The CDI was delivered by a "Raven," digital counselor, programmed to interact in a motivational interviewing style. The Raven was perceived to be nonjudgmental, understanding, and emotionally responsive. The appearance and images in the intervention were perceived as relevant and acceptable. Participants noted that they could be more truthful with a digital counselor, however, it was not unanimously endorsed as a replacement for a human counselor. The C-Raven Satisfaction Scale showed that all participants rated their satisfaction at either a 4 (n=2) or a 5 (n=8) on a 5-point Likert scale and all endorsed using the C-Raven program again.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: CDIs show promise in extending access to care and improving health outcomes but their development necessarily requires integration from multiple disciplines including behavioral medicine and computer science. We developed a cross-platform compatible CDI led by a digital counselor that interacts in a motivational interviewing style and (1) uses evidence-based behavioral change methods, (2) is culturally adapted to people with HIV who use drugs, (3) has an engaging and interactive user interface, and (4) presents personalized content based on participants' ongoing responses to a series of menu-driven conversations. To advance the continued development of this and other CDIs, we recommend expanded testing, standardized measures to evaluate user experience, integration with clinician-delivered substance use treatment, and if effective, implementation into HIV clinical care.}, }
@article {pmid37628405, year = {2023}, author = {Sousa, M and Peixoto, M and Cruz, O and Cruz, S}, title = {Academic Performance in Institutionalized and Noninstitutionalized Children: The Role of Cognitive Ability and Negative Lability.}, journal = {Children (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {10}, number = {8}, pages = {}, pmid = {37628405}, issn = {2227-9067}, abstract = {More research is needed to understand the factors that contribute to low academic achievement in institutionalized children. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between cognitive and emotion regulation skills and academic performance, by comparing institutionalized and noninstitutionalized Portuguese children. The sample comprised 94 participants (46 institutionalized (22 boys) and 48 noninstitutionalized (23 boys) children), aged between 6 and 10 years, matched for age and sex. We used Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) to measure cognitive abilities. Emotional regulation and negative lability were assessed using the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERC). Academic performance was assessed with the Competence Academic Scale (CAS) of the Portuguese version of the Social Skills Rating System-Teacher Form (SSRS-T). Institutionalized children exhibited poorer academic performance than their noninstitutionalized counterparts (effect size, η[2] = 0.174). Cognitive ability (β = 0.28) and negative lability (β = -0.28) were significant predictors of academic performance. In addition to institutionalization, cognitive ability, and the challenges of managing negative emotions may contribute to the observed differences in academic performance. Interventions aimed at fostering cognitive and emotional competencies may play a protective role for institutionalized children facing academic and social difficulties.}, }
@article {pmid37624355, year = {2023}, author = {Niczyporuk, JS and Kozdrun, W and Czujkowska, A and Blanchard, Y and Helle, M and Dheilly, NM and Gonzalez, G}, title = {West Nile Virus Lineage 2 in Free-Living Corvus cornix Birds in Poland.}, journal = {Tropical medicine and infectious disease}, volume = {8}, number = {8}, pages = {}, pmid = {37624355}, issn = {2414-6366}, abstract = {The summer temperatures recorded in Poland in 2022 were among the highest in over 30 years and, combined with higher-than-expected rainfall, gave the impression of an almost tropical climate. Such climatic conditions were ideal for the transmission of vector-borne zoonotic diseases such as West Nile fever. In northeastern Poland, in the Mazowieckie region, the Polish event-based surveillance network reported increased fatalities of free-living hooded crows (Corvus corone cornix). West Nile virus (WNV) lineage 2 was identified for the first time as the etiological agent responsible for the death of the birds. WNV was detected in 17 out of the 99 (17.17%) free-living birds tested in this study. All the WNV-infected dead birds were collected in the same area and were diagnosed in September by the NVRI and confirmed by the EURL for equine diseases, ANSES, in October 2022. Unnaturally high temperatures recorded in Poland in 2022 likely favored the infection and spread of the virus in the avian population. A nationwide alert and awareness raising of blood transfusion centers and hospitals was carried out to prevent human infections by WNV.}, }
@article {pmid37619490, year = {2023}, author = {Sakaguchi, K and Tanabe, M and Takizawa, S and Kasahara, S and Denda, T and Koide, S and Hayashi, W and Nagano, Y and Nagano, N}, title = {Zoonotic potential and antimicrobial resistance of Escherichia spp. in urban crows in Japan-first detection of E. marmotae and E. ruysiae.}, journal = {Comparative immunology, microbiology and infectious diseases}, volume = {100}, number = {}, pages = {102040}, doi = {10.1016/j.cimid.2023.102040}, pmid = {37619490}, issn = {1878-1667}, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Escherichia coli/genetics ; *Crows ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Japan/epidemiology ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics ; }, abstract = {Little is known about the prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and pathogenic Escherichia coli in crows (carrion and jungle crows). We studied the phylogeny, virulence and antimicrobial resistance gene profiles of crow E. coli isolates to investigate their zoonotic potential and molecular epidemiology. During the winter of 2021-2022, 34 putative E. coli isolates were recovered from 27 of the 65 fresh fecal samples collected in urban areas. Three strains of the B1-O88:H8-ST446-fimH54 lineage, classified as extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) and necrotoxigenic E. coli type 2, were colistin-resistant and harbored mcr-1.1-carrying IncI2 plasmids. The blaCTX-M-55 was identified in a multidrug-resistant B1-O non-typeable:H23-ST224-fimH39 strain. In phylogroup B2, two lineages of O6:H1-ST73-fimH30 and O6:H5-ST83-fimH21 were classified as ExPEC, uropathogenic E. coli, and necrotoxigenic E. coli type 1 (O6:H5-ST83-fimH21), and contained several virulence genes associated with avian pathogenic E. coli. Noteworthy is that three isolates, identified as E. coli by MALDI-TOF MS, were confirmed to be two Escherichia marmotae (cryptic clade V) and one Escherichia ruysiae (cryptic clade III) based on ANI and dDDH analyses. Our results provide the first evidence of these new species in crows. E. marmotae and E. ruysiae isolates in this study were classified as ExPEC and contained the enteroaggregative E. coli heat-stable toxin 1 gene. In addition, these two E. marmotae isolates displayed a close genetic relationship with human isolates associated with septicemia. This study provides the first insights into the prevalence and zoonotic significance of Escherichia spp. in urban crows in Japan, posing a significant risk for their transmission to humans.}, }
@article {pmid37616390, year = {2024}, author = {Dayan, S and Ogilvie, P and Boyd, C and De Boulle, K and Cavallini, M and Garcia, JK and Musumeci, M}, title = {Self-perception of natural outcome, appearance, and emotional well-being after OnabotulinumtoxinA treatment for upper facial lines: Post hoc analysis across age and gender.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {107-116}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.15947}, pmid = {37616390}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//AbbVie/ ; //Allergan/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Male ; Humans ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A/therapeutic use ; *Neuromuscular Agents/therapeutic use ; Patient Satisfaction ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Double-Blind Method ; Forehead ; Self Concept ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: OnabotulinumtoxinA (onabotA) is indicated for upper facial lines (UFL). Fear of unnatural-looking outcomes is a frequently reported treatment barrier.<br><br>AIMS: Examine patient-reported outcomes (PROs) after onabotA treatment for UFL.<br><br>METHODS: A post hoc analysis was conducted on two 12-month pivotal studies of onabotA for forehead and glabellar lines (20&#x2009;U each), with/without treatment of crow's feet lines (&#xb1;24&#x2009;U). This analysis used PROs from the Facial Line Satisfaction Questionnaire: Items 4 (natural look), 5 (treatment effect), 11 (met expectations), and Impact Domain (appearance and psychological impact). The analysis included 458 neurotoxin-naive adults achieving a &#x2265;2-grade improvement in forehead line (FHL) severity on the Facial Wrinkle Scale at Day 30 (primary endpoint). [Corrections made on 28 December 2023, after first online publication: 'UFL' in the previous sentence has been corrected to 'forehead line (FHL)' in this version.] Data were further stratified into millennials and men.<br><br>RESULTS: At Day 30, 90.5% of all participants, 94.6% of millennials, and 85.7% of men were satisfied with receiving a natural look. Millennials had higher odds of being satisfied with natural outcomes at Day 30. This measure remained >&#x2009;80% for all groups throughout the 12&#x2009;months. Additionally, &#x2265;80% were satisfied with the treatment effect, and >90% reported results met expectations. At Day 30, &#x2265;50% reported positive impacts on self-perceived appearance and psychological well-being, but millennials had higher, and men had lower odds of reporting these improvements.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Participants achieving a &#x2265;2-grade improvement in FHL severity after onabotA reported high satisfaction with natural outcomes and the treatment effect, with improved self-perceived appearance and psychological well-being. [Corrections made on 28 December 2023, after first online publication: 'UFL' in the previous sentence has been corrected to 'FHL' in this version.] These results may help aesthetic providers and patients address fears regarding unnatural results with onabotA.}, }
@article {pmid37615835, year = {2023}, author = {Brown, A and Furmanczyk, M and Ramos, D and Ribes, A and Pons, L and Bustos, J and de Henestrosa, ARF and Granger, C and Jourdan, E}, title = {Natural Retinol Analogs Potentiate the Effects of Retinal on Aged and Photodamaged Skin: Results from In Vitro to Clinical Studies.}, journal = {Dermatology and therapy}, volume = {13}, number = {10}, pages = {2299-2317}, pmid = {37615835}, issn = {2193-8210}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Plants are a source of natural ingredients with retinol-like properties that can deliver anti-aging benefits without the side effects typically associated with retinoid use. We hypothesized that by combining two such analogs, bakuchiol (BAK) and Vigna aconitifolia extract (VAE), with the potent retinoid retinal (RAL), the anti-photoaging potential of RAL could be enhanced without compromising its skin irritation profile. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate that BAK and VAE potentiate the anti-photoaging activity of RAL.<br><br>METHODS: Gene expression profiling of full-thickness reconstructed skin was first used to examine the impact of BAK or VAE in combination with RAL on skin biology. Next, the irritative potential of this combination, and its capacity to reverse key signs of photoaging in an ex vivo model was assessed. Finally, a proof-of-concept open label clinical study was performed to evaluate the anti-photoaging capacity and skin compatibility of a cosmetic formulation (tri-retinoid complex; 3RC) containing this complex in combination with other well characterized anti-photoaging ingredients.<br><br>RESULTS: In vitro profiling suggested that combining 0.1% RAL with BAK or VAE potentiates the effect of RAL on keratinocyte differentiation and skin barrier function without affecting its skin irritation profile. When formulated with other anti-photoaging ingredients, such as niacinamide and melatonin, 3RC reversed ultraviolet radiation-induced deficits in structural components of the dermal extracellular matrix, including hyaluronic acid and collagen. In vivo, it led to a reversal of clinical signs of age and photodamage, with statistically significant improvement to skin firmness (+5.6%), skin elasticity (+13.9%), wrinkle count (-43.2%), and skin tone homogeneity (+7.0%), observed within 28&#xa0;days of once nightly use. Notably, the number of crow's feet wrinkles was reduced in 100% of subjects. Furthermore, 3RC was very well tolerated.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These data suggest that 3RC is a highly effective and well-tolerated treatment for photoaging.}, }
@article {pmid37614918, year = {2023}, author = {Zhu, ZQ and Zi, SM and Gao, LF and Zhang, XD and Liu, FY and Wang, Q and Du, B}, title = {A diagnosis model of parental care: How parents optimize their provisioning strategy in brood reduction?.}, journal = {Current zoology}, volume = {69}, number = {4}, pages = {385-392}, pmid = {37614918}, issn = {1674-5507}, abstract = {Altricial birds often display biased preferences in providing parental care for their dependent offspring, especially during food shortages. During this process, such inflexible rules may result in provisioning errors. To demonstrate how parents optimize their provisioning strategies, we proposed a "diagnosis model" of parental care to posit that parents will undergo a diagnosis procedure to test whether selecting against some particular offspring based on phenotype is an optimal strategy. We tested this model in an asynchronous hatching bird, the Azure-winged Magpie Cyanopica cyanus, based on 10 years of data about demography and parental provisioning behaviors. Given their higher daily survival rates, core offspring (those hatched on the first day) merits an investment priority compared with their marginal brood mates (those hatched on later days). However, a marginal offspring also merited a priority if it displayed greater weight gain than the expected value at the early post-hatching days. Parents could detect such a marginal offspring via a diagnosis strategy, in which they provisioned the brood at the diagnosis stage by delivering food to every nestling that begged, then biased food toward high-value nestlings at the subsequent decision stage by making a negative response to the begging of low-value nestlings. In this provisioning strategy, the growth performance of a nestling became a more reliable indicator of its investment value than its hatching order or competitive ability. Our findings provide evidence for this "diagnosis model of parental care" wherein parents use a diagnosis method to optimize their provisioning strategy in brood reduction.}, }
@article {pmid37609628, year = {2023}, author = {Thomason, EC and Turley, NJS and Belthoff, JR and Conkling, TJ and Katzner, TE}, title = {Illegal shooting is now a leading cause of death of birds along power lines in the western USA.}, journal = {iScience}, volume = {26}, number = {8}, pages = {107274}, pmid = {37609628}, issn = {2589-0042}, abstract = {Human actions, both legal and illegal, affect wildlife in many ways. Inaccurate diagnosis of cause of death undermines law enforcement, management, threat assessment, and mitigation. We found 410 dead birds collected along 196 km of power lines in four western USA states during 2019-2022. We necropsied these carcasses to test conventional wisdom suggesting that electrocution is the leading cause of death of birds at electrical infrastructure. Of 175 birds with a known cause of death, 66% died from gunshot. Both raptors and corvids were more likely to die from gunshot than from other causes, along both transmission and distribution lines. Past mitigation to reduce avian deaths along power lines has focused almost exclusively on reducing electrocutions or collisions. Our work suggests that, although electrocution and collision remain important, addressing illegal shooting now may have greater relevance for avian conservation.}, }
@article {pmid37602515, year = {2023}, author = {Roy, J and Soler-Garzón, A and Miklas, PN and Lee, R and Clevenger, J and Myers, Z and Korani, W and McClean, PE}, title = {Integrating de novo QTL-seq and linkage mapping to identify quantitative trait loci conditioning physiological resistance and avoidance to white mold disease in dry bean.}, journal = {The plant genome}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {e20380}, doi = {10.1002/tpg2.20380}, pmid = {37602515}, issn = {1940-3372}, support = {//USDA-ARS through the National Sclerotinia Initiative/ ; }, mesh = {*Quantitative Trait Loci ; Chromosome Mapping/methods ; Phenotype ; *Chromosomes, Plant ; Disease Resistance/genetics ; }, abstract = {White mold (WM), caused by the ubiquitous fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, is a devastating disease that limits production and quality of dry bean globally. In the present study, classic linkage mapping combined with QTL-seq were employed in two recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations, "Montrose"/I9365-25 (M25) and "Raven"/I9365-31 (R31), with the initial goal of fine-mapping QTL WM5.4 and WM7.5 that condition WM resistance. The RILs were phenotyped for WM reactions under greenhouse (straw test) and field environments. The general region of WM5.4 and WM7.5 were reconfirmed with both mapping strategies within each population. Combining the results from both mapping strategies, WM5.4 was delimited to a 22.60-36.25 Mb interval in the heterochromatic regions on Pv05, while WM7.5 was narrowed to a 0.83 Mb (3.99-4.82 Mb) region on the Pv07 chromosome. Furthermore, additional QTL WM2.2a (3.81-7.24 Mb), WM2.2b (11.18-17.37 Mb, heterochromatic region), and WM2.2c (23.33-25.94 Mb) were mapped to a narrowed genomic interval on Pv02 and WM4.2 in a 0.89 Mb physical interval at the distal end of Pv04 chromosome. Gene models encoding gibberellin 2-oxidase proteins regulating plant architecture are likely candidate genes associated with WM2.2a resistance. Nine gene models encoding a disease resistance protein (quinone reductase family protein and ATWRKY69) found within the WM5.4 QTL interval are putative candidate genes. Clusters of 13 and 5 copies of gene models encoding cysteine-rich receptor-like kinase and receptor-like protein kinase-related family proteins, respectively, are potential candidate genes associated with WM7.5 resistance and most likely trigger physiological resistance to WM. Acquired knowledge of the narrowed major QTL intervals, flanking markers, and candidate genes provides promising opportunities to develop functional molecular markers to implement marker-assisted selection for WM resistant dry bean cultivars.}, }
@article {pmid37602217, year = {2023}, author = {Holzinger, A and Saranti, A and Angerschmid, A and Finzel, B and Schmid, U and Mueller, H}, title = {Toward human-level concept learning: Pattern benchmarking for AI algorithms.}, journal = {Patterns (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {4}, number = {8}, pages = {100788}, pmid = {37602217}, issn = {2666-3899}, abstract = {Artificial intelligence (AI) today is very successful at standard pattern-recognition tasks due to the availability of large amounts of data and advances in statistical data-driven machine learning. However, there is still a large gap between AI pattern recognition and human-level concept learning. Humans can learn amazingly well even under uncertainty from just a few examples and are capable of generalizing these concepts to solve new conceptual problems. The growing interest in explainable machine intelligence requires experimental environments and diagnostic/benchmark datasets to analyze existing approaches and drive progress in pattern analysis and machine intelligence. In this paper, we provide an overview of current AI solutions for benchmarking concept learning, reasoning, and generalization; discuss the state-of-the-art of existing diagnostic/benchmark datasets (such as CLEVR, CLEVRER, CLOSURE, CURI, Bongard-LOGO, V-PROM, RAVEN, Kandinsky Patterns, CLEVR-Humans, CLEVRER-Humans, and their extension containing human language); and provide an outlook of some future research directions in this exciting research domain.}, }
@article {pmid37600513, year = {2023}, author = {Matsuda, K and Shinohara, M and Ii, Y and Tabei, KI and Ueda, Y and Nakamura, N and Hirata, Y and Ishikawa, H and Matsuyama, H and Matsuura, K and Satoh, M and Maeda, M and Momosaki, R and Tomimoto, H and Shindo, A}, title = {Magnetic resonance imaging and neuropsychological findings for predicting of cognitive deterioration in memory clinic patients.}, journal = {Frontiers in aging neuroscience}, volume = {15}, number = {}, pages = {1155122}, pmid = {37600513}, issn = {1663-4365}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The severity of cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been assessed using hypertensive arteriopathy SVD and cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA)-SVD scores. In addition, we reported the modified CAA-SVD score including cortical microinfarcts and posterior dominant white matter hyperintensity. Each SVD score has been associated with cognitive function, but the longitudinal changes remain unclear. Therefore, this study prospectively examined the prognostic value of each SVD score, imaging findings of cerebral SVD, and neuropsychological assessment.<br><br>METHODS: This study included 29 patients diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia at memory clinic in our hospital, who underwent clinical dementia rating (CDR) and brain MRI (3D-fluid attenuated inversion recovery, 3D-double inversion recovery, and susceptibility-weighted imaging) at baseline and 1 year later. Each SVD score and neuropsychological tests including the Mini-Mental State Examination, Japanese Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, Trail Making Test -A/-B, and the Rivermead Behavioral Memory Test were evaluated at baseline and 1 year later.<br><br>RESULTS: Twenty patients had unchanged CDR (group A), while nine patients had worsened CDR (group B) after 1 year. At baseline, there was no significant difference in each SVD score; after 1 year, group B had significantly increased CAA-SVD and modified CAA-SVD scores. Group B also showed a significantly higher number of lobar microbleeds than group A at baseline. Furthermore, group B had significantly longer Japanese Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices and Trail Making test-A times at baseline. After 1 year, group B had significantly lower Mini-Mental State Examination, Japanese Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, and Rivermead Behavioral Memory Test scores and significantly fewer word fluency (letters).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Patients with worsened CDR 1 year after had a higher number of lobar microbleeds and prolonged psychomotor speed at baseline. These findings may become predictors of cognitive deterioration in patients who visit memory clinics.}, }
@article {pmid37597025, year = {2023}, author = {Subash Chandra Bose, K and Shah, MI and Krishna, J and Sankaranarayanan, M}, title = {Genome-scale metabolic model analysis of Pichia pastoris for enhancing the production of S-adenosyl-L-methionine.}, journal = {Bioprocess and biosystems engineering}, volume = {46}, number = {10}, pages = {1471-1482}, pmid = {37597025}, issn = {1615-7605}, support = {BT/PR12153/INF/22/200/2014//Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, India/ ; BT/PR7605/FNS/20/732/2013//Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, India/ ; }, mesh = {*Methionine ; Saccharomycetales ; *S-Adenosylmethionine ; Carbon ; Racemethionine ; }, abstract = {Komagataella phaffii, formerly Pichia pastoris (P. pastoris), is a promising methylotrophic yeast used in industry to produce recombinant protein and valuable metabolites. In this study, a genome-scale metabolic model (GEMs) was reconstructed and used to assess P. pastoris' metabolic capabilities for the production of S-adenosyl-L-methionine (AdoMet or SAM or SAMe) from individual carbon sources along with the addition of L-methionine. In a model-driven P. pastoris strain, the well-established genome-scale metabolic model iAUKM can be implemented to predict high valuable metabolite production. The model, iAUKM, was created by merging the previously published iMT1026 model and the draught model generated using Raven toolbox from the KEGG database which covered 2309 enzymatic reactions associated with 1033 metabolic genes and 1750 metabolites. The highly curated model was successful in capturing P. pastoris growth on various carbon sources, as well as AdoMet production under various growth conditions. Many overexpression gene targets for increasing AdoMet accumulation in the cell have been predicted for various carbon sources. Inorganic phosphatase (IPP) was one of the predicted overexpression targets as revealed from simulations using iAUKM. When IPP gene was integrated into P. pastoris, we found that AdoMet accumulation increased by 16% and 14% using glucose and glycerol as carbon sources, respectively. Our in silico results shed light on the factors limiting AdoMet production, as well as key pathways for rationalized engineering to increase AdoMet yield.}, }
@article {pmid37596564, year = {2023}, author = {Singh, SK and Lhungdim, H and Shekhar, C and Dwivedi, LK and Pedgaonkar, S and James, KS}, title = {Key drivers of reversal of trend in childhood anaemia in India: evidence from Indian demographic and health surveys, 2016-21.}, journal = {BMC public health}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {1574}, pmid = {37596564}, issn = {1471-2458}, mesh = {Humans ; *Anemia/epidemiology ; Asian People ; Child Health ; Demography ; India/epidemiology ; Infant ; Child, Preschool ; }, abstract = {AIM: Recent National Family Health Survey results portray striking improvements in most population and health indicators, including fertility, family planning, maternal and child health, gender treatment, household environments, and health insurance coverage of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), with all India resonance. However, the prevalence of any anaemia (< 11 g/dl) among children under age five has exhibited a reversed trajectory in recent years. Therefore, the present study explores key drivers of the reversal of the trend in the prevalence of childhood anaemia between 2015 and2021.<br><br>METHODS: Data of&#xa0;four rounds of the&#xa0;National Family Health Survey (NFHS) were used to show the overall trend of anaemia among children. However, for the analysis of key drivers of the reversal trend of childhood anaemia, only the recent two rounds (NFHS-4 &amp; NFHS-5) were used. Descriptive, bivariate multivariable analysis and Fairlie decomposition model were used to explore the drivers of the&#xa0;reversal of the&#xa0;trend in childhood anaemia.<br><br>RESULTS: During the past two decades, India has seen a decline in the prevalence of childhood anaemia (NFHS-2 to NFHS-4). However, a reversal of trend was observed recently. The prevalence of anaemia among children aged 6-59&#xa0;months increased from 59 percent in NFHS-4 to 67 percent in NFHS-5. In addition, the prevalence of mild anaemia increased from 23.3 percent in NFHS-2 to 28.7 percent in NFHS-5. However, the prevalence of moderate and severe anaemia declined considerably from NFHS-2 (40 percent and 4.1 percent) to NFHS-4 (28.7 percent and 1.6 percent), but showed an increase in the prevalence in NFHS-5 (36.3 percent and 2.2 percent). Among others,&#xa0;mothers' educational attainment, anaemia status and socio-economic status emerge as the key drivers of the change in the prevalence of childhood anaemia.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These findings may have vital implications for the ongoing Anaemia Mukt Bharat Programme, one of the government's dream projects in India.}, }
@article {pmid37594172, year = {2023}, author = {Martín, JM and Revelles, JM and Aznar, NM and Jiménez, LM and Orellana, JB and Gomariz, M&#xc1; and Alfertshofer, M and Cotofana, S}, title = {Superficial versus deep injections of the upper midface-A prospective interventional split-face study.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {22}, number = {11}, pages = {2940-2949}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.15795}, pmid = {37594172}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//Merz Pharmaceuticals/ ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Various injection algorithms have been proposed in the past which are in line with the three aesthetic principles: upper face first, lateral face first, and deep regions first. However, increasing evidence is provided that the upper midface can be targeted with superficial soft tissue filler injections alone too.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To investigate in a prospective split-face study design whether superficial or deep upper midfacial injections provide superior aesthetic outcomes.<br><br>METHODS: A total of n&#x2009;=&#x2009;20 study participants (100% females; age 43.95 (11.7) years; BMI 22.92 (2.6) kg/m[2]) were treated with superficial soft tissue filler injections on side of their face and deep injections on the contralateral side with a mean volume of 0.78&#x2009;cc. Outcome was evaluated at 7&#x2009;weeks follow-up for midfacial, and lower facial volume, for medial and lateral facial skin vector displacement, and for improvement of nasolabial, crow's feet, and upper cheek fullness severity scores.<br><br>RESULTS: No adverse events related to safety or product tolerability were observed during the entire study period. All semiquantitative scores improved statistically significantly after the observational period (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001) but displayed no difference between the two applied injection techniques (p&#x2009;>&#x2009;0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results of this split-face study revealed that both the superficial and the deep cannula injection technique for midface volumization statistically significantly improve the midfacial volume, reduce nasolabial fold and crow's feet severity. No statistically significant difference was observed between the two injection techniques when compared via semiquantitative and objective outcome evaluation after 7&#x2009;weeks follow-up.}, }
@article {pmid37593715, year = {2023}, author = {Hahner, L and Nieder, A}, title = {Costs and benefits of voluntary attention in crows.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {10}, number = {8}, pages = {230517}, pmid = {37593715}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {Behavioural signatures of voluntary, endogenous selective attention have been found in both mammals and birds, but the relationship between performance benefits at attended and costs at unattended locations remains unclear. We trained two carrion crows (Corvus corone) on a Posner-like spatial cueing task with dissociated cue and target locations, using both highly predictive and neutral central cues to compare reaction time (RT) and detection accuracy for validly, invalidly and neutrally cued targets. We found robust RT effects of predictive cueing at varying stimulus-onset asynchronies (SOA) that resulted from both advantages at cued locations and costs at un-cued locations. Both crows showed cueing effects around 15-25 ms with an early onset at 100 ms SOA, comparable to macaques. Our results provide a direct assessment of costs and benefits of voluntary attention in a bird species. They show that crows are able to guide spatial attention using associative cues, and that the processing advantage at attended locations impairs performance at unattended locations.}, }
@article {pmid37589384, year = {2023}, author = {DeRaad, DA and Escalona, M and Benham, PM and Marimuthu, MPA and Sahasrabudhe, RM and Nguyen, O and Chumchim, N and Beraut, E and Fairbairn, CW and Seligmann, W and Bowie, RCK and Cicero, C and McCormack, JE and Wayne, RK}, title = {De novo assembly of a chromosome-level reference genome for the California Scrub-Jay, Aphelocoma californica.}, journal = {The Journal of heredity}, volume = {114}, number = {6}, pages = {669-680}, pmid = {37589384}, issn = {1465-7333}, support = {S10 OD010786/OD/NIH HHS/United States ; S10 OD018174/OD/NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Phylogeny ; *Genome ; *Passeriformes ; Chromosomes ; California ; }, abstract = {We announce the assembly of the first de novo reference genome for the California Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma californica). The genus Aphelocoma comprises four currently recognized species including many locally adapted populations across Mesoamerica and North America. Intensive study of Aphelocoma has revealed novel insights into the evolutionary mechanisms driving diversification in natural systems. Additional insights into the evolutionary history of this group will require continued development of high-quality, publicly available genomic resources. We extracted high molecular weight genomic DNA from a female California Scrub-Jay from northern California and generated PacBio HiFi long-read data and Omni-C chromatin conformation capture data. We used these data to generate a de novo partially phased diploid genome assembly, consisting of two pseudo-haplotypes, and scaffolded them using inferred physical proximity information from the Omni-C data. The more complete pseudo-haplotype assembly (arbitrarily designated "Haplotype 1") is 1.35 Gb in total length, highly contiguous (contig N50 = 11.53 Mb), and highly complete (BUSCO completeness score = 97%), with comparable scaffold sizes to chromosome-level avian reference genomes (scaffold N50 = 66.14 Mb). Our California Scrub-Jay assembly is highly syntenic with the New Caledonian Crow reference genome despite ~10 million years of divergence, highlighting the temporal stability of the avian genome. This high-quality reference genome represents a leap forward in publicly available genomic resources for Aphelocoma, and the family Corvidae more broadly. Future work using Aphelocoma as a model for understanding the evolutionary forces generating and maintaining biodiversity across phylogenetic scales can now benefit from a highly contiguous, in-group reference genome.}, }
@article {pmid37589041, year = {2023}, author = {McCormack, JE and Hill, MM and DeRaad, DA and Kirsch, EJ and Reckling, KR and Mutchler, MJ and Ramirez, BR and Campbell, RML and Salter, JF and Pizarro, AK and Tsai, WLE and Bonaccorso, E}, title = {An elevational shift facilitated the Mesoamerican diversification of Azure-hooded Jays (Cyanolyca cucullata) during the Great American Biotic Interchange.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {13}, number = {8}, pages = {e10411}, pmid = {37589041}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {The Great American Biotic Interchange (GABI) was a key biogeographic event in the history of the Americas. The rising of the Panamanian land bridge ended the isolation of South America and ushered in a period of dispersal, mass extinction, and new community assemblages, which sparked competition, adaptation, and speciation. Diversification across many bird groups, and the elevational zonation of others, ties back to events triggered by the GABI. But the exact timing of these events is still being revealed, with recent studies suggesting a much earlier time window for faunal exchange, perhaps as early as 20 million years ago (Mya). Using a time-calibrated phylogenetic tree, we show that the jay genus Cyanolyca is emblematic of bird dispersal trends, with an early, pre-land bridge dispersal from Mesoamerica to South America 6.3-7.3 Mya, followed by a back-colonization of C. cucullata to Mesoamerica 2.3-4.8 Mya, likely after the land bridge was complete. As Cyanolyca species came into contact in Mesoamerica, they avoided competition due to a prior shift to lower elevation in the ancestor of C. cucullata. This shift allowed C. cucullata to integrate itself into the Mesoamerican highland avifauna, which our time-calibrated phylogeny suggests was already populated by higher-elevation, congeneric dwarf-jays (C. argentigula, C. pumilo, C. mirabilis, and C. nanus). The outcome of these events and fortuitous elevational zonation was that C. cucullata could continue colonizing new highland areas farther north during the Pleistocene. Resultingly, four C. cucullata lineages became isolated in allopatric, highland regions from Panama to Mexico, diverging in genetics, morphology, plumage, and vocalizations. At least two of these lineages are best described as species (C. mitrata and C. cucullata). Continued study will further document the influence of the GABI and help clarify how dispersal and vicariance shaped modern-day species assemblages in the Americas.}, }
@article {pmid37583595, year = {2023}, author = {Oladzad, A and Roy, J and Mamidi, S and Miklas, PN and Lee, R and Clevenger, J and Myers, Z and Korani, W and McClean, PE}, title = {Linked candidate genes of different functions for white mold resistance in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L) are identified by multiple QTL mapping approaches.}, journal = {Frontiers in plant science}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1233285}, pmid = {37583595}, issn = {1664-462X}, abstract = {White mold (WM) is a major disease in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), and its complex quantitative genetic control limits the development of WM resistant cultivars. WM2.2, one of the nine meta-QTL with a major effect on WM tolerance, explains up to 35% of the phenotypic variation and was previously mapped to a large genomic interval on Pv02. Our objective was to narrow the interval of this QTL using combined approach of classic QTL mapping and QTL-based bulk segregant analysis (BSA), and confirming those results with Khufu de novo QTL-seq. The phenotypic and genotypic data from two RIL populations, 'Raven'/I9365-31 (R31) and 'AN-37'/PS02-029C-20 (Z0726-9), were used to select resistant and susceptible lines to generate subpopulations for bulk DNA sequencing. The QTL physical interval was determined by considering overlapping interval of the identified QTL or peak region in both populations by three independent QTL mapping analyses. Our findings revealed that meta-QTL WM2.2 consists of three regions, WM2.2a (4.27-5.76 Mb; euchromatic), WM 2.2b (12.19 to 17.61 Mb; heterochromatic), and WM2.2c (23.01-25.74 Mb; heterochromatic) found in both populations. Gene models encoding for gibberellin 2-oxidase 8, pentatricopeptide repeat, and heat-shock proteins are the likely candidate genes associated with WM2.2a resistance. A TIR-NBS-LRR class of disease resistance protein (Phvul.002G09200) and LRR domain containing family proteins are potential candidate genes associated with WM2.2b resistance. Nine gene models encoding disease resistance protein [pathogenesis-related thaumatin superfamily protein and disease resistance-responsive (dirigent-like protein) family protein etc] found within the WM2.2c QTL interval are putative candidate genes. WM2.2a region is most likely associated with avoidance mechanisms while WM2.2b and WM2.2c regions trigger physiological resistance based on putative candidate genes.}, }
@article {pmid37577796, year = {2023}, author = {Fanian, F and Deutsch, JJ and Bousquet, MT and Boisnic, S and Andre, P and Catoni, I and Beilin, G and Lemmel, C and Taieb, M and Gomel-Toledano, M and Issa, H and Garcia, P}, title = {A hyaluronic acid-based micro-filler improves superficial wrinkles and skin quality: a randomized prospective controlled multicenter study.}, journal = {The Journal of dermatological treatment}, volume = {34}, number = {1}, pages = {2216323}, doi = {10.1080/09546634.2023.2216323}, pmid = {37577796}, issn = {1471-1753}, mesh = {Humans ; *Hyaluronic Acid ; *Skin Aging ; Prospective Studies ; Skin ; Treatment Outcome ; Rejuvenation ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: NCTF®135HA is a bio-revitalizing solution containing hyaluronic acid designed to compensate for skin dehydration, fatigue, and fine wrinkles associated with endogenous and environmental aging.<br><br>METHODS: We conducted a randomized, active-controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of NCTF&#xae;135HA injections on the face (crow's feet), neck, and d&#xe9;collet&#xe9; regions. Subjects were randomly assigned (3:1) to receive three NCTF&#xae;135HA treatment sessions plus twice-daily anti-aging moisturizer cream or cream alone (control). The primary outcome was the reduction in superficial wrinkles between baseline and Day (D)75 in the three areas, assessed by profilometric measures, clinical scoring, subjective changes, and tolerability.<br><br>RESULTS: 146 subjects were randomized to NCTF&#xae;135HA (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;107) or control (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;38). At D75 and D120, NCTF&#xae;135HA significantly reduced wrinkles in all three areas and improved facial radiance scores compared with the control. Skin hydration significantly increased 7&#x2009;d after the last NCTF&#xae;135HA injection. Self-esteem scales showed statistically significant improvements at D75 and D120 in subjects treated with NCTF&#xae;135HA versus baseline. Most adverse events were mild, resolved within 48&#x2009;h, and were related to the injection procedure.<br><br>CONCLUSION: NCTF&#xae;135HA is an effective and well-tolerated treatment to reduce the skin signs of aging. The results are significantly superior to a routine anti-aging cream alone.(Funded by Laboratories FILLMED; ID-RCB number: 2018-A03167-48; clinicaltrials.gov number: NCT05609617).}, }
@article {pmid37577244, year = {2023}, author = {Glahn, JZ and Hooper, RC and Butler, PD}, title = {Recognition and Respect: Contextualizing the History and Contributions of Black American Plastic Surgeons.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open}, volume = {11}, number = {8}, pages = {e5179}, pmid = {37577244}, issn = {2169-7574}, support = {UL1 TR001863/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Recently, there has been heightened interest in the history of Black American plastic surgeons and their contributions to the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS). Despite the increased awareness and attention toward the lack of racial and ethnic diversity of the PRS workforce, the history of how PRS became one of the most ethnically segregated surgical specialties remains unexplored. Here, we outline the various political and cultural factors that contributed to the exclusion of Black practitioners from American PRS professional societies. This work contextualizes the rise of American PRS within the Jim Crow era and highlights the cultural significance of reconstructive procedures performed in the treatment of disfigured soldiers. Through this lens, we identify circumstances where Black surgeons were systematically denied opportunities to participate in the emerging specialty. Despite these barriers, we demonstrate how Black physicians established informal networks for professional advancement and shed light on several previously unrecognized contributions to PRS from Black surgeons. In addition, we explore how the inclusion of Black voices in PRS sparked a paradigm shift in the treatment of non-White patients that expanded the cosmetic marketplace in ways that remain significant today. Finally, we situate the ongoing disparities in Black representation in PRS within a broader historical narrative and illustrate how the stories we tell about our past continue to shape the future of our field.}, }
@article {pmid37565028, year = {2023}, author = {Zhu, G and Zheng, M and Lyu, S and Ma, L}, title = {Report of a magpie preying on a post-fledgling Daurian redstart.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {13}, number = {8}, pages = {e10412}, pmid = {37565028}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {A magpie (Pica pica) preying on a fledgling of Daurian redstart (Phoenicurus auroreus) was incidentally recorded with a video shot by mobile phone on 26 May 2021, providing direct evidence for magpie predation. It also shows that predation is an important factor that affects the survival of fledglings, indicating that survival of fledglings should be considered in evaluating breeding success of birds. The fledgling was about 13-day-old posthatching, and it was on its first day of leaving the nest when the incident occurred. It was preyed upon by a magpie 10 m away from the nest by two attempts under strong defensive behaviour from the female.}, }
@article {pmid37559451, year = {2023}, author = {Xu, M and Yu, X and Fan, B and Li, G and Ji, X}, title = {Influence of Mode of Delivery on Children's Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Childhood Intelligence.}, journal = {Psychiatry investigation}, volume = {20}, number = {8}, pages = {714-720}, pmid = {37559451}, issn = {1738-3684}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether differences exist in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and intelligence between children born by cesarean delivery and those born by vaginal delivery.<br><br>METHODS: This retrospective study included singleton children that were born between January 2013 and December 2014. The Chinese version of the Conners' Parent Rating Scale-Revised (CPRS-48) was required on the probability of psychological and behavioral problems. The China-Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (C-WIRS) was used for evaluation of crystallized intelligence and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices for evaluation of fluid intelligence.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 10,568 valid questionnaires were obtained. CPRS-48 ADHD index and detection rate were higher in cesarean delivery group than those in vaginal delivery group. Cesarean delivery groups had a lower performance intelligence quotient score according to C-WISC.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Children born by cesarean delivery were more likely to have a risk of ADHD and a lower performance intelligence quotient compared with those born by vaginal delivery.}, }
@article {pmid37555467, year = {2023}, author = {Naveed, S and Sallinen, T and Eloranta, AM and Skog, H and Jalkanen, H and Brage, S and Ekelund, U and Pentikäinen, H and Savonen, K and Lakka, TA and Haapala, EA}, title = {Effects of 2-year dietary and physical activity intervention on cognition in children-a nonrandomized controlled trial.}, journal = {Scandinavian journal of medicine &amp; science in sports}, volume = {33}, number = {11}, pages = {2340-2350}, doi = {10.1111/sms.14464}, pmid = {37555467}, issn = {1600-0838}, support = {MC_UU_12015/3/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; MC_UU_00006/4/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Child ; Humans ; Cognition ; Diet ; *Exercise/physiology ; Sedentary Behavior ; *Sports ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: We investigated the effects of a combined dietary and PA intervention on cognition in children and whether changes in diet quality, PA, sedentary behavior (SB), and sedentary time (ST) are associated with changes in cognition.<br><br>METHODS: We conducted a 2-year nonrandomized controlled trial in 504 children aged 6-9&#x2009;years at baseline. The children were allocated to a combined dietary and PA intervention group (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;237) or a control group (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;160) without blinding.<br><br>INTERVENTIONS: The children and their parents allocated to the intervention group had six dietary counseling sessions of 30-45&#x2009;min and six PA counseling sessions of 30-45&#x2009;min during the 2-year intervention period. The children were also encouraged to participate in after-school exercise clubs. Cognition was assessed by the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices. We assessed dietary factors by 4&#x2009;days food records and computed the Baltic Sea Diet Score (BSDS) as a measure of diet quality. PA and ST were assessed by a combined heart rate and body movement monitor, types of PA and SB by a questionnaire.<br><br>RESULTS: The intervention had no effect on cognition. Increased BSDS and consumption of low-fat milk and decreased consumption of red meat and sausages were associated with improved cognition over 2&#x2009;years. Increased organized sports, ST, and reading were positively, while unsupervised PA, computer use, and writing were negatively associated with cognition.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Combined dietary and PA intervention had no effect on cognition. Improved diet quality and increased organized sports and reading were associated with improved cognition.}, }
@article {pmid37554031, year = {2023}, author = {Arbon, JJ and Hahn, LG and McIvor, GE and Thornton, A}, title = {Competition and generalization impede cultural formation in wild jackdaws.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {290}, number = {2004}, pages = {20230705}, pmid = {37554031}, issn = {1471-2954}, support = {/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Crows ; Food ; }, abstract = {Animal cultures have now been demonstrated experimentally in diverse taxa from flies to great apes. However, experiments commonly use tasks with unrestricted access to equal pay-offs and innovations seeded by demonstrators who are trained to exhibit strong preferences. Such conditions may not reflect those typically found in nature. For example, the learned preferences of natural innovators may be weaker, while competition for depleting resources can favour switching between strategies and generalizing from past experience. Here we show that in experiments where wild jackdaws (Corvus monedula) can freely discover depleting supplies of novel foods, generalization has a powerful effect on learning, allowing individuals to exploit multiple new opportunities through both social and individual learning. Further, in contrast to studies with trained demonstrators, individuals that were first to innovate showed weak preferences. As a consequence, many individuals ate all available novel foods, displaying no strong preference and no group-level culture emerged. Individuals followed a 'learn from adults' strategy, but other demographic factors played a minimal role in shaping social transmission. These results demonstrate the importance of generalization in allowing animals to exploit new opportunities and highlight how natural competitive dynamics may impede the formation of culture.}, }
@article {pmid37552946, year = {2023}, author = {Wascher, CAF}, title = {Cognition: Crows are natural statisticians.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {33}, number = {15}, pages = {R808-R810}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2023.06.073}, pmid = {37552946}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Cognition ; Reward ; }, abstract = {A new study shows that carrion crows use memorized reward associations in a combinatorial way to apply relative probabilistic information to optimize reward outcome. This for the first time shows that a corvid species can flexibly apply statistical inference during decision making.}, }
@article {pmid37546494, year = {2022}, author = {Sommers, CL and Houghty, GS and Purbojo, R and Bernarto, I}, title = {Factors influencing nursing students' continued success in a baccalaureate nursing program in Indonesia.}, journal = {Belitung nursing journal}, volume = {8}, number = {4}, pages = {340-348}, pmid = {37546494}, issn = {2477-4073}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Holistic admission processes are needed to promote diversity in nursing students. Previous research had identified different variables related to the average grade point at the end of the first semester. There is a need to examine if those variables are associated with ongoing student success.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to analyze experience, attributes, and academic variables for an association with nursing student success. Student success was defined as being an active student at the end of the first year and at the end of the second year of a baccalaureate nursing program in Indonesia.<br><br>METHODS: Binary logistic regression analysis was used to determine what relationship, if any, the variables had with student success, measured at the end of the first and second academic years. The data of 341 nursing students enrolled in August 2018 was analyzed.<br><br>RESULTS: The variables accounted for 40.3% of the variance at the end of the first year and 24.3% of the variance at the end of the second year. There was a significant (p < .05) relationship between being enrolled at the end of the first year and 1) academic variables of first semester grade point average and the admission score of Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices, and 2) attribute variables of reason for entering nursing and brief calling presence scale. A significant relationship was found between being enrolled at the end of the second year and the attribute variable of grit score. No variables had a strong correlation with other variables.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Holistic admission processes and promoting student success can create the future of the nursing workforce. Improving the diversity in admitted nursing students will enhance the diversity in the nursing workforce. To promote the success of all students, a variety of support interventions will need to be developed. As students' calling and grit may play a role in student success, a better understanding is needed. In addition, more research is needed to explore how developing calling and grit throughout the nursing program can impact student success.}, }
@article {pmid37541170, year = {2023}, author = {Habib, M and Ul-Rahman, A and Zia-Ur-Rehman,  and Shahid, MA and Sarwar, N and Bilal, M and Imran, MS and Munir, M and Abbas, S and Shabbir, MZ}, title = {Comparative immunocompetence and interspecies transmission of avian orthoavulavirus-1 in feral birds originating from rural and urban settings.}, journal = {Comparative immunology, microbiology and infectious diseases}, volume = {100}, number = {}, pages = {102036}, doi = {10.1016/j.cimid.2023.102036}, pmid = {37541170}, issn = {1878-1667}, mesh = {Animals ; *Chickens ; *Animals, Wild ; Newcastle disease virus/physiology ; Ducks ; Immunocompetence ; }, abstract = {Feral birds residing close to urban settings exhibit higher immunocompetence against environmental pathogens than their counterparts in rural areas. In this study, we comprehensively evaluated the immunocompetence of five specific feral bird species and investigated the potential for interspecies transmission and pathogenicity of Avian orthoavulavirus-1 (AOAV-1) originating from the Anseriformes order. The immunocompetence assessment involved administering the phytohemagglutinin (PHA) test to individual groups of birds from rural and urban settings, measuring patagium thickness at specific time intervals (12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 h) following the administration of 0.1 mL (1 mg/mL) of PHA. Urban birds displayed significantly enhanced mean swelling responses, particularly urban pigeons, which exhibited a significant difference in patagium thickness at all-time intervals except for 24 h (p = 0.000, p = 0.12). Similarly, rural and urban quails and crows showed substantial differences in patagium thickness at all-time intervals except for 12 h (p = 0.542, p = 0.29). For the assessment of interspecies transmission potential and pathogenicity, each feral bird group was separately housed with naive broiler birds (n = 10 each) and challenged with a velogenic strain of AOAV-1 isolate (Mallard-II/UVAS/Pak/2016) at a dose of 1 mL (10[8] EID50/mL). Urban birds demonstrated higher resistance to the virus compared to their rural counterparts. These findings highlight the specific immunocompetence of feral bird species and their potential contributions to AOAV-1 transmission and pathogenicity. Continuous monitoring, surveillance, and strict implementation of biosafety and biosecurity measures are crucial for effectively controlling AOAV-1 spillover to the environment and wild bird populations in resource-limited settings, particularly Pakistan.}, }
@article {pmid37540622, year = {2023}, author = {Parmar, D and Strupat, C and Srivastava, S and Brenner, S and Parisi, D and Ziegler, S and Neogi, R and Walsh, C and De Allegri, M}, title = {Effects of the Indian National Health Insurance Scheme (PM-JAY) on Hospitalizations, Out-of-pocket Expenditures and Catastrophic Expenditures.}, journal = {Health systems and reform}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {2227430}, doi = {10.1080/23288604.2023.2227430}, pmid = {37540622}, issn = {2328-8620}, mesh = {Humans ; *Health Expenditures ; *Hospitalization ; Delivery of Health Care ; Insurance, Health ; National Health Programs ; }, abstract = {India launched one of the world's largest health insurance programs, the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), targeting more than 500 million economically and socially disadvantaged Indians. PM-JAY is publicly funded and covers hospitalization costs in public and private facilities. We examine how PM-JAY has affected hospitalizations and out-of-pocket expenditures (OOPE), and given the high use of private health care in India, we compare these outcomes across public and private facilities. We conducted a household survey to collect data on socioeconomic and demographic information, health status and hospitalizations for more than 57,000 PM-JAY eligible individuals in six Indian states. Using multivariate regression models, we estimated whether PM-JAY was associated with any changes in hospitalizations, OOPE and catastrophic health expenditures (CHE) and whether these differed across public and private facilities. We found that PM-JAY was not associated with an increase in hospitalizations, but it increased the probability of visiting a private facility by 4.6% points (p < .05). PM-JAY was associated with a relative reduction of 13% in OOPE (p < .1) and 21% in CHE (p < .01). This was entirely driven by private facilities, where relative OOPE was reduced by 17% (p < .01) and CHE by 19% (p < .01). This implied that PM-JAY has shifted use from public to private hospitalizations. Given the complex healthcare system with the presence of parallel public and private systems in India, our study concludes that for economically and socially disadvantaged groups, PM-JAY contributes to improved access to secondary and tertiary care services from private providers.}, }
@article {pmid37539651, year = {2023}, author = {Taffs, L and Kerridge, I and Lipworth, W}, title = {The silent world of assisted reproduction: A qualitative account of communication between doctors and patients undergoing in vitro fertilisation in Australia.}, journal = {Health expectations : an international journal of public participation in health care and health policy}, volume = {26}, number = {6}, pages = {2340-2348}, pmid = {37539651}, issn = {1369-7625}, mesh = {Child ; Humans ; Pregnancy ; Female ; *Fertilization in Vitro ; Pregnancy Outcome ; Australia ; Communication ; *General Practitioners ; }, abstract = {CONTEXT: In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is now a common assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedure globally, with 8 million children alive today having been conceived utilising IVF. For many patients, IVF is a difficult experience with many discontinuing treatment because of emotional, relationship and financial stress, or intolerable physical side effects of hormone treatments.<br><br>DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS: A qualitative study, in which 31&#xa0;professionals and 25&#xa0;patients from the ART sector in Australia were interviewed. The interviews were analysed using codebook thematic analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: Our data indicates there are 'silences' within the therapeutic relationship of IVF, which may limit the capacity for patients to prepare emotionally, financially,&#xa0;or medically for the procedure, and may contribute to psychological distress and dissatisfaction with care. These 'silences' include what the patient 'is not told' by their clinician or 'does not hear' and what the patient feels they 'cannot say'.<br><br>DISCUSSION: Drawing upon the work of Jay Katz, Charis Thompson,&#xa0;and Miles Little on 'silences' and performance in clinical practice, we argue that although IVF is a complex and multifaceted procedure that is often conducted in a commercial setting, the clinical and therapeutic relationship between doctor and patient remains pivotal to the experiences of patients. The 'silences' within this relationship may impact negatively on decision-making, and on the delivery and experience of care.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Careful attention to the realities of IVF treatment in the clinic room (and awareness of the performances that hide them) should allow for more present and compassionate care. Such care may leave patients more satisfied with their experience and their choices, regardless of treatment outcomes.<br><br>This article draws on interviews with patients who had undergone or were currently undergoing IVF, as well as a range of representatives from the ART community (including reproductive medicine specialists, general practitioners, fertility nurses, counsellors, administrators in ART businesses&#xa0;and embryologists).}, }
@article {pmid37536061, year = {2023}, author = {Lin, X and Tirichine, L and Zhang, X}, title = {The dynamic duo: how DNA methylation and gene transcription help diatoms thrive in modern oceans.}, journal = {Journal of experimental botany}, volume = {74}, number = {14}, pages = {3879-3882}, pmid = {37536061}, issn = {1460-2431}, mesh = {*DNA Methylation ; *Diatoms/genetics ; Oceans and Seas ; DNA Transposable Elements ; Transcription, Genetic ; }, abstract = {This article comments on: Wan J, Zhou Y, Beardall J, Raven JA, Lin J, Huang J, Lu Y, Liang S, Ye M, Xiao M, Zhao J, Dai X, Xia J, Jin P. 2023. DNA methylation and gene transcription act cooperatively in driving the adaptation of a marine diatom to global change. Journal of Experimental Botany74, 4259–4276.}, }
@article {pmid37533413, year = {2023}, author = {Kizilkaya, MC and Kilic, S and Dagistanli, S and Eren, MF and Basaran, C and Ohri, N and Sayan, M}, title = {Effectiveness of a telehealth patient education intervention for breast cancer awareness and screening uptake among Afghan refugee women: a cross-sectional survey and feasibility study.}, journal = {EClinicalMedicine}, volume = {62}, number = {}, pages = {102094}, pmid = {37533413}, issn = {2589-5370}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Refugee populations have low levels of cancer awareness, low cancer screening rates, and a high rate of advanced or metastatic cancer at diagnosis. Educational interventions to improve cancer awareness and screening have been successful in other nationality refugee populations but have never been implemented in Afghan refugee populations. We aimed to estimate the level of breast cancer awareness among Afghan refugee women and test the feasibility of a telehealth breast cancer educational intervention to increase breast cancer awareness in this population.<br><br>METHODS: A cross-sectional survey of Afghan refugee women residing in Istanbul, T&#xfc;rkiye who had no personal history of breast cancer and who presented to outpatient primary clinics for care between August 1, 2022, and February 10, 2023 was performed. Participant awareness of breast cancer (BC) was assessed using the validated BC awareness tool, Breast Cancer Awareness Measure (BCAM), during a telehealth encounter. After this baseline assessment, a BC educational intervention was administered to each participant during the telehealth encounter. Six months after the initial assessment and education, a follow-up BCAM was administered via telehealth in order to determine the effectiveness of the education intervention.<br><br>FINDINGS: One hundred participants were accrued to the study. Median age was 49 years (range: 40-64). All participants had no formal education, were married, and were not employed. Prior to the educational intervention, BC awareness was low; none of the participants were able to identify some common signs/symptoms and risk factors for BC. Prior to the educational intervention, zero participants had ever had a mammogram or seen a physician for a breast-related concern. Six months after the educational intervention, up to 99 percent of participants (99 of 100 participants) were able to correctly identify common signs or symptoms and risk factors for BC. Six months after the educational intervention, all one hundred participants had accepted the offer of a screening mammogram.<br><br>INTERPRETATION: A telehealth BC education intervention meaningfully increased BC awareness in Afghan refugee women. This increase in BC awareness was associated with a strong increase in completion of BC screening. Further implementation of educational interventions is warranted in order to increase participant awareness and improve screening rates.<br><br>FUNDING: Dana Farber Cancer Institute Jay Harris Junior Faculty Research Grant.}, }
@article {pmid37526257, year = {2024}, author = {Wu, HH and Chen, MQ and Liu, JH and Song, LL and Luo, DQ and Lu, JF and Zhao, YK}, title = {Combination of fractional carbon dioxide laser with recombinant human collagen in periocular skin rejuvenation.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {124-133}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.15942}, pmid = {37526257}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//This study was funded by the Guangdong Medical Science and Technology Research Project (A2021344) and Science and Technology Program of Jiangxi Provincial Health Commission (20204474). The recombinant human collagen used in this study was provided by Zheng-Lun Li, the General manager of Guangzhou Sumei Medical Device Co., LTD./ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Carbon Dioxide ; Collagen ; *Laser Therapy/adverse effects ; *Lasers, Gas/adverse effects ; Prospective Studies ; Rejuvenation ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The most visible sign of facial aging is often seen in the periocular area. However, periocular rejuvenation remains challenging due to the particularity of periocular anatomic locations.<br><br>AIMS: We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the fractional-ablative CO2 laser-facilitated recombinant human collagen permeation in periocular rejuvenation.<br><br>PATIENTS/METHODS: This 3-month prospective single-blinded and self-controlled trial enrolled 26 patients with periocular aging who underwent the treatments of fractional-ablative CO2 laser along with laser-facilitated recombinant human collagen permeation. Following the treatments, the patients were quantitatively assessed by various periocular skin aging indices before and after the treatment and monitored for any related adverse events.<br><br>RESULTS: The patients showed significant improvements with the periocular skin aging indices 3&#x2009;months after the treatments, which were detailed with a 47.3% decrease in lower eyelid skin rhytids, a 41.4% decrease in the lower eyelid skin texture, a 35.0% decrease in the static crow's feet, a 29.3% decrease in the amount of upper eyelid laxity, and a 20.2% increase in the MRD1 as compared with baseline (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). Moreover, total skin thickness under ultrasound was increased in both upper and lower eyelids (5.6% and 3.3%, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05, respectively). Moreover, six patients (23.1%, 6/26) had erythema for 2&#x2009;weeks, and two (2/26, 7.7%) had mild hyperpigmentation for 3&#x2009;months.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Fractional-ablative CO2 laser combined with laser-facilitated recombinant human collagen permeation can be a safe and effective treatment for periocular rejuvenation.}, }
@article {pmid37524930, year = {2023}, author = {Webb, T and Holyoak, KJ and Lu, H}, title = {Emergent analogical reasoning in large language models.}, journal = {Nature human behaviour}, volume = {7}, number = {9}, pages = {1526-1541}, pmid = {37524930}, issn = {2397-3374}, mesh = {Humans ; *Problem Solving ; *Cognition ; Language ; }, abstract = {The recent advent of large language models has reinvigorated debate over whether human cognitive capacities might emerge in such generic models given sufficient training data. Of particular interest is the ability of these models to reason about novel problems zero-shot, without any direct training. In human cognition, this capacity is closely tied to an ability to reason by analogy. Here we performed a direct comparison between human reasoners and a large language model (the text-davinci-003 variant of Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT)-3) on a range of analogical tasks, including a non-visual matrix reasoning task based on the rule structure of Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. We found that GPT-3 displayed a surprisingly strong capacity for abstract pattern induction, matching or even surpassing human capabilities in most settings; preliminary tests of GPT-4 indicated even better performance. Our results indicate that large language models such as GPT-3 have acquired an emergent ability to find zero-shot solutions to a broad range of analogy problems.}, }
@article {pmid37524636, year = {2023}, author = {Nieder, A}, title = {Neuroscience of cognitive control in crows.}, journal = {Trends in neurosciences}, volume = {46}, number = {10}, pages = {783-785}, doi = {10.1016/j.tins.2023.07.002}, pmid = {37524636}, issn = {1878-108X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Telencephalon/physiology ; Cognition/physiology ; Cerebral Cortex ; Neurons/physiology ; Mammals ; }, abstract = {Crows, a group of corvid songbird species, show superb behavioral flexibility largely stemming from their advanced cognitive control functions. These functions mainly originate from the associative avian pallium that evolved independently from the mammalian cerebral cortex. This article presents a brief overview of cognitive control functions and their neuronal foundation in crows.}, }
@article {pmid37522597, year = {2023}, author = {Hernández, MC and Lara, RA and Redondo, AJ}, title = {To Mob or Not to Mob: Habitat and Time of Day Influence in Mobbing Behavior in the Azure-Winged Magpie (Cyanopica cookii).}, journal = {Zoological science}, volume = {40}, number = {4}, pages = {273-277}, doi = {10.2108/zs230004}, pmid = {37522597}, issn = {0289-0003}, mesh = {Animals ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; *Strigiformes ; Predatory Behavior ; Ecosystem ; *Bullying ; }, abstract = {While mobbing, individuals utter distinctive calls and perform visual threatening displays. Like any other antipredatory strategies, it involves some costs (time, energy, injuries, and even death). Therefore, mobbing would be expected to vary depending on the perceived magnitude of the predation risk. Moreover, harassment behavior can also serve as a demonstration of social status and to teach juveniles to recognize predators and related behaviors. Therefore, mobbing could also persist even when predation risk is particularly low. To test our hypotheses, we used tawny owl playbacks and a taxidermy mount to elicit the mobbing response in azure-winged magpies throughout the daylight period. To classify mobbing intensity, we created five categories depending on the proximity to the owl model at which the mobbing was performed. The results revealed that mobbing behavior in azure-winged magpies was more intense where predation risk was higher: in the most suitable habitat for the tawny owl, the forest, although considerable levels of mobbing were found in the dehesa and the ecotone, which indicate that mobbing has different purposes. However, we did not find statistically significant differences in mobbing intensity depending on the time of the day. We could not show a daily adjustment of antipredator response, but magpies modulated mobbing depending on the perceived risk linked to the habitat.}, }
@article {pmid37522497, year = {2023}, author = {Couturaud, V and Le Fur, M and Pelletier, M and Granotier, F}, title = {Reverse skin aging signs by red light photobiomodulation.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {29}, number = {7}, pages = {e13391}, pmid = {37522497}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Skin Aging ; Light ; Skin/diagnostic imaging ; Aging ; Face ; *Low-Level Light Therapy/methods ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Photobiomodulation is a process by which the absorption of red light energy produces a series of physiological effects at the cellular level such as the enhancement of mitochondrial Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) production, cell signaling and growth factor synthesis, and the reduction of oxidative stress. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) photobiomodulation is an increasingly popular therapy for treating skin problems, especially for reversing the signs of skin aging.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to demonstrate the effectiveness of a photobiomodulation treatment using red LEDs on the facial skin at a rate of two sessions per week for 3 months. The LED mask used is the Skin Light Dior x Lucibel mask diffusing a cold red light with a wavelength of 630&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;10&#xa0;nm and a power of 15.6 J/cm[2] for a duration of 12 min.<br><br>METHOD: In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the mask in reversing the signs of skin aging, a clinical study was conducted on 20 healthy Caucasian women: the antiwrinkle effect by measuring the depth of the crow's feet wrinkle, the relaxation of the oval of the face by clinical scoring, the firmness and elasticity of the skin by cutometric measurement, the density of the dermis by ultrasound analysis, the smoothness of the skin by measuring the roughness at the cheek, the homogeneity of the complexion by chromametric measurement, the diameter of the pores by macrophotographs and finally the sebo-regulating effect by measurement of the rate of sebum and quantification of the number of pores containing porphyrin in the subjects presenting a mixed to oily skin. The satisfaction of the volunteers was also evaluated at the end of the study via a self-questionnaire.<br><br>RESULTS: The efficacy results measured after 1, 2, and 3 months of use are progressive and confirm the interest of LED photobiomodulation to reverse the visible signs of skin aging. All the volunteers observed an overall improvement in skin quality.<br><br>CONCLUSION: All the results observed confirm the interest of using photobiomodulation to reverse the visible signs of aging. These results last for up to 1 month after stopping the use of the mask, which is a sign of lasting structural and functional rejuvenation of the skin.}, }
@article {pmid37520123, year = {2023}, author = {Tabei, KI and Ogawa, JI and Kamikawa, C and Abe, M and Ota, Y and Satoh, M}, title = {Online physical exercise program with music improves working memory.}, journal = {Frontiers in aging neuroscience}, volume = {15}, number = {}, pages = {1146060}, pmid = {37520123}, issn = {1663-4365}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has limited the implementation of face-to-face non-pharmacological treatment for the prevention of dementia. As a result, online non-pharmacological treatment has become increasingly important. In this study, we used an online conferencing system to implement an online version of a physical exercise program with music, and examined its effect on cognitive function.<br><br>METHODS: The participants were 114 healthy older adults [63 men and 51 women; mean age of 70.7 years (standard deviation = 4.6)]. Seventy-five participants were allocated to the physical exercise with music group (60 min, once a week, total 20 sessions), while the remaining 39 participants were assigned to the control group, and only underwent the examinations. In the physical exercise with music group, we performed neuropsychological examinations and brain tests both before and after the exercise program. Neuropsychological tests included the Mini-Mental State Examination, Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM), the Rivermead Behavioral Memory Test, graphic imitation, word fluency (WF) (animal names and initial sounds), and the Trail Making Test-A/B. As an assessment of brain function, we developed an online examination of subtle cognitive decline, including tests of number and word memory, spatial grasp, the N-back task, and change inference.<br><br>RESULTS: In the N-back task, the physical exercise with music group improved significantly relative to the control group (p = 0.008).<br><br>DISCUSSION: The present findings suggest that the online version of the physical exercise with music program improved working memory, which mainly involves the frontal lobe.}, }
@article {pmid37517728, year = {2023}, author = {Bravo, C and Sarasa, M and Bretagnolle, V and Pays, O}, title = {Hedgerows interact with forests to shape the abundance of mesopredators and their predation rate on eggs in farmland landscapes.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {901}, number = {}, pages = {165712}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165712}, pmid = {37517728}, issn = {1879-1026}, abstract = {Nest predation is the main cause of reproductive failure, particularly in ground-nesting birds on farmlands. Understanding the links between nest predation and habitat change can help design effective management schemes to constrain the negative impact of predation pressure on birds. However, the mechanisms underlying the relationships between landscape attributes, predator distribution, and nest predation are still unclear. Here, we use an experimental approach to examine the effects of distance to the hedgerow as well as hedgerow and forest densities on the abundance of major mesopredators of ground nests of our study area (i.e., corvids) and on the predation rate of artificial ground nests (n = 2576). We found evidence that landscape configuration influenced predation patterns differently depending on the predator species. Nest predation by corvids was more likely in homogeneous and open agricultural landscapes with a low density of forest and hedgerows, whereas predation by other predators was more likely close to hedgerows. Nest predation by corvids and the abundance of corvids also tended to be lower in landscapes dominated by grasslands. Other variables such as road density and distance to human settlements had contrasted effects on the likelihood of a nest being depredated by corvids, i.e., no effect with proximity to human settlements and decreasing trend with road density. Altogether, our results suggest that landscape features interact with mesopredator distribution and their predation rates of ground nests. Therefore, from a conservation and management perspective, a heterogeneous agricultural landscape that includes a mixture of crops associated with patches of forests, hedgerows, and grasslands offering alternative food to generalist predators should contribute to reducing ground-nesting bird predation.}, }
@article {pmid37511775, year = {2023}, author = {Ichihashi, M and Tanaka, M and Iizuka, T and Totsuka, H and Tominaga, E and Hitomi, Y and Ando, H and Nishikata, T and Mizutani, KI}, title = {A Single Intradermal Injection of Autologous Adipose-Tissue-Derived Stem Cells Rejuvenates Aged Skin and Sharpens Double Eyelids.}, journal = {Journal of personalized medicine}, volume = {13}, number = {7}, pages = {}, pmid = {37511775}, issn = {2075-4426}, abstract = {Facial skin aging is the most visible manifestation of aging in the body. In this study, we aimed to rejuvenate aging skin via a one-time intradermal injection of autologous adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs). Eight patients were enrolled for study. Photographs of patients taken immediately before and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after ADSC injections were comparatively evaluated for visible skin manifestations. ADSCs were cultured from the abdominal-skin-derived subcutaneous fat tissue, and 1 × 108 cultured ADSCs were injected intradermally into the facial skin. Cultured myoblasts were incubated with the supernatant derived from ADSCs, and the effect was evaluated via glucose consumption and lactic acid production in the medium. Eight cases showed the shallowing and disappearance of wrinkles, including those of the glabella, lower eyelids, crow`s feet, and forehead and nasolabial grooves, a month to several months after treatment. Double eyelids became prominent, and facial pores significantly reduced in size. These effects lasted for over one year. Myoblasts cultured in the presence of an ADSC-derived exosome were activated compared to that of ADSCs cultured without supernatant. The result supports the role of muscle in ADSC skin rejuvenation. The present study first reports that a single intradermal administration of cultured ADSCs rejuvenates aged facial skin over the course of one year. Further, patients exhibited definite double eyelids and pore shrinkage, strongly indicating the active involvement of muscle, which was supported by an in vitro study. Our study also suggested the important role of biological factors delivered from injected stem cells, although the detailed mechanism of rejuvenation effects of ADSC skin injection remains to be clarified.}, }
@article {pmid37509811, year = {2023}, author = {Bianchi, A and Taglieri, I and Macaluso, M and Sanmartin, C and Zinnai, A and Venturi, F}, title = {Effect of Different Packaging Strategies on the Secondary Shelf Life of Young and Structured Red Wine.}, journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {12}, number = {14}, pages = {}, pmid = {37509811}, issn = {2304-8158}, support = {3553.04032020.158000112//tuscany region/ ; FISR2019-03020//MUR/ ; }, abstract = {When bottled wine is opened, a completely different scenario occurs that can accelerate the oxidation of the product. This is called the secondary shelf life (SSL), which is generally shorter and less predictable than the primary shelf life (PSL). In this context, the research aim was to evaluate the changes that occur in two types of red wine during two tests to evaluate the secondary shelf life as a function of the packaging systems. The variation of Total SO2 and Free SO2 and the other chemical parameters (polyphenols, anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins, color, and volatile acidity) were used to assess the oxidation rate of the packaging samples after opening during the SSL. In both tests and for the two types of stored red wine, the polymeric cap showed the best results. The other types of closure (screw cap, natural cork, crow cap, and Tetra Brik) showed a negative trend and a reduced SSL for both red wines. Finally, the sensory results confirmed that with the polymeric cap, the SSL increases considerably compared to other capping systems. These results may be due to the technical characteristics of polymeric materials, which tend to vary slightly in shape after repeated usage.}, }
@article {pmid37508746, year = {2023}, author = {Saati, AA and Adly, HM}, title = {Assessing the Correlation between Blood Trace Element Concentrations, Picky Eating Habits, and Intelligence Quotient in School-Aged Children.}, journal = {Children (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {10}, number = {7}, pages = {}, pmid = {37508746}, issn = {2227-9067}, support = {43109025//Deanship of Scientific Research at Umm Al-Qura University/ ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Inadequate levels of iron, zinc, and copper have been linked to growth impairment and cognitive and motor development deficits. The objective of this study is to examine the deficiencies of trace elements and their correlation with selective eating patterns and the intelligence quotient (IQ) of children.<br><br>METHODS AND PATIENTS: The cross-sectional analysis involved 430 children aged between 7 and 10 years. Blood samples were analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) to measure the trace elements levels. Children's IQs were assessed using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: Among the sample group, 20.3% exhibited iron deficiency, 42.5% had zinc deficiency, and 14% had insufficient copper levels. Single trace element deficiency was observed in 56.9% of the children, while 66.7% showed coexisting deficiencies of iron and zinc. Children with lower development levels exhibited significantly lower serum zinc levels compared to those with higher development levels (76.78 &#xb1; 10.67 vs. 81.14 &#xb1; 10.19 &#x3bc;g/dL). The analysis reveals that picky eaters had lower serum iron levels (76.59 &#xb1; 10.42 &#x3bc;g/dL) and higher serum copper levels (123.74 &#xb1; 13.45 &#x3bc;g/dL).<br><br>CONCLUSION: A strong association was observed between zinc deficiency, picky eating habits, and lower developmental stages. The findings underscore the importance of monitoring nutritional status in children, given the significant implications for their cognitive development.}, }
@article {pmid37499083, year = {2023}, author = {Carruthers, A and Carruthers, J and De Boulle, K and Lowe, N and Lee, E and Brin, MF}, title = {Treatment of crow's feet lines and forehead lines with Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA): Development, insights, and impact.}, journal = {Medicine}, volume = {102}, number = {S1}, pages = {e32496}, pmid = {37499083}, issn = {1536-5964}, mesh = {Humans ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; Forehead ; *Neuromuscular Agents ; *Skin Aging ; Patient Satisfaction ; *Cosmetic Techniques/adverse effects ; Treatment Outcome ; Double-Blind Method ; }, abstract = {Extrinsic and age-related intrinsic factors contribute to the development of facial lines, including lateral canthal lines (called crow's feet lines [CFL]) and horizontal forehead lines (FHL). OnabotulinumtoxinA is a highly effective treatment for facial lines that inhibits acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction. This temporary chemical denervation leads to localized muscle relaxation and subsequent wrinkle reduction. Early studies of onabotulinumtoxinA treatment for facial neuronal disorders such as dystonia documented improvements in FHL and CFL. After the neurotoxin was approved for treating frown lines (glabellar lines [GL]), individuals requested treatment for other rhytids, and physicians continued assessing use in new areas. Once onabotulinumtoxinA was in clinical trial development, its efficacy and safety for CFL and FHL were successively evaluated as required by the US Food and Drug Administration and by key global health authorities, including those in the European Union, Japan, and China. Allergan, collaborating with leading physicians, established clinical programs that included novel safety and efficacy measures to meet regulatory requirements. Global, phase 3, randomized, controlled studies of CFL and FHL met rigorous primary endpoints. Some countries mandated clinical trial data beyond US and European regulations, and Allergan conducted 11 studies in total, fulfilling diverse regulatory and study population data requirements. Adverse events associated with local spread, including brow and eyelid ptosis, diplopia, headache, and eyelid sensory disorder, were infrequent and well tolerated. Consequently, onabotulinumtoxinA treatment of upper facial lines is now established globally as a highly effective, minimally invasive treatment for patients to achieve a natural appearance and look younger.}, }
@article {pmid37493349, year = {2023}, author = {}, title = {Persuading the Non-canonical Intercalated-Motif DNA to Reveal Its Structure.}, journal = {Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English)}, volume = {62}, number = {38}, pages = {e202308352}, doi = {10.1002/anie.202308352}, pmid = {37493349}, issn = {1521-3773}, mesh = {Humans ; *DNA/chemistry ; Base Pairing ; Promoter Regions, Genetic ; Ions ; Nucleic Acid Conformation ; }, abstract = {This invited Team Profile was created by Kevin Li and Liliya Yatsunyk, Swarthmore College PA (USA) and by John Schneekloth, Jr, (Jay) National Cancer Institute, Frederick MD (USA). They recently published an article on the first crystal structure of an intercalated motif (i-motif or iM) from the HRAS oncogene involved in many cancers. The iHRAS structure was solved to 1.8 Å resolution. It contains a tail-to-tail dimer of two iMs each with six C-C[+] base pairs. The structure is unique in that only two base pairs out of 20 are canonical. The extensive network of capping and connecting interactions is unprecedented. The unique structural elements (loops/connecting region) may be targeted by ligands or proteins as cancer therapies. iHRAS represents the first crystallized iM-forming structure from a human promoter. "Crystal Structure of an iM from the HRAS Oncogene Promoter", K. S. Li, D. Jordan, L. Y. Lin, S. E. McCarthy, J. S. Schneekloth Jr., and L. A. Yatsunyk, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. Engl. 2023, 62, e202301666.}, }
@article {pmid37490767, year = {2024}, author = {Ascher, B and Rzany, BJ and Kestemont, P and Redaelli, A and Hendrickx, B and Iozzo, I and Martschin, C and Milotich, A and Molina, B and Cartier, H and Picaut, P and Prygova, I}, title = {International Consensus Recommendations on the Aesthetic Usage of Ready-to-Use AbobotulinumtoxinA (Alluzience).}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {44}, number = {2}, pages = {192-202}, pmid = {37490767}, issn = {1527-330X}, mesh = {Humans ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; Consensus ; Face ; Esthetics ; *Skin Aging ; *Neuromuscular Agents ; }, abstract = {Alluzience (abobotulinumtoxinA RTU; Ipsen, Paris, France and Galderma SA, Lausanne, Switzerland) is the first ready-to-use (RTU) botulinum toxin type A liquid solution approved for the treatment of glabellar lines in Europe. In this article, the authors provide consensus recommendations on the aesthetic usage of abobotulinumtoxinA RTU. Members of the International Board on Alluzience convened to develop consensus on the treatment of glabellar lines as well as other facial wrinkles based on their own extensive experience. Consensus recommendations were developed to provide practical guidelines for injection of abobotulinumtoxinA RTU. General guidance on proper assessment, treatment planning, and patient education is provided, as well as specific injection guidelines per indication. Indications covered include glabellar lines, crow's feet, horizontal forehead lines, lateral eyebrow lift, lower eyelid wrinkles, bunny lines, drooping nasal tip, perioral wrinkles, drooping mouth corners, masseter hypertrophy, hollow cheek lines, dimpled chin, and platysmal bands. These guidelines provide a practical framework to support routine injection of facial muscles with Alluzience.}, }
@article {pmid37488542, year = {2023}, author = {Trapote, E and Canestrari, D and Baglione, V}, title = {Effects of meteorological conditions on brood care in cooperatively breeding carrion crow and consequences on reproductive success.}, journal = {Frontiers in zoology}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {24}, pmid = {37488542}, issn = {1742-9994}, support = {CGL2016 - 77636-P//Spanish National Plan for Scientific and Technical Research and Innovation/ ; }, abstract = {Meteorological stressors (e.g., temperature and rain shortage) constrain brood provisioning in some bird species, but the consequences on reproductive success have been rarely quantified. Here we show, in a cooperatively breeding population of carrion crow Corvus corone in Spain, that individual feeding rates decreased significantly with rising air temperatures both in breeders and helpers, while lack of rain was associated with a significant reduction in the effort of the male helpers as compared to the other social categories. Group coordination, measured as the degree of alternation of nest visits by carers, was also negatively affected by rising temperature. Furthermore, we found that the body condition of the nestlings worsened when temperatures were high during the rearing period. Interestingly, the analysis of a long-term data set on crow reproduction showed that nestling body condition steadily deteriorated over the last 26-years. Although many factors may concur in causing population changes, our data suggest a possible causal link between global warming, brood caring behaviour and the decline of carrion crow population in the Mediterranean climatic region of Spain.}, }
@article {pmid37485865, year = {2023}, author = {Xiong, Y and Tobler, M and Hegemann, A and Hasselquist, DL}, title = {Assessment of avian health status: suitability and constraints of the Zoetis VetScan VS2 blood analyser for ecological and evolutionary studies.}, journal = {Biology open}, volume = {12}, number = {8}, pages = {}, pmid = {37485865}, issn = {2046-6390}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; }, abstract = {Biochemical analyses of blood can decipher physiological conditions of living animals and unravel mechanistic underpinnings of life-history strategies and trade-offs. Yet, researchers in ecology and evolution often face constraints in which methods to apply, not least due to blood volume restrictions or field settings. Here, we test the suitability of a portable biochemical analyser (Zoetis VetScan VS2) for ecological and evolutionary studies that may help solve those problems. Using as little as 80 µl of whole-bird blood from free-living Jackdaws (Corvus monedula) and captive Zebra Finches (Taeniopygia guttata), we show that eight (out of 10) blood analytes show high repeatability after short-term storage (approximately 2 h) and six after 12 h storage time. Handling stress had a clear impact on all except two analytes by 16 min after catching. Finally, six analytes showed consistency within individuals over a period of 30 days, and three even showed individual consistency over a year. Taken together, we conclude that the VetScan VS2 captures biologically relevant variation in blood analytes using just 80 µl of whole blood and, thus, provides valuable physiological measurements of (small) birds sampled in semi-field and field conditions.}, }
@article {pmid37483973, year = {2023}, author = {Carlón-Beltrán, &#xd3; and Viloria-Gómora, L and Urbán R, J and Martínez-Aguilar, S and Antichi, S}, title = {Whistle characterization of long-beaked common dolphin (Delphinus delphis bairdii) in La Paz Bay, Gulf of California.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {e15687}, pmid = {37483973}, issn = {2167-8359}, mesh = {Animals ; *Common Dolphins ; Bays ; Vocalization, Animal ; Sound Spectrography/methods ; *Dolphins ; }, abstract = {Long-beaked common dolphin (Delphinus delphis bairdii) distribution is limited to the Eastern North Pacific Ocean. Its whistle repertoire is poorly investigated, with no studies in the Gulf of California. The aim of the present study is to characterize the whistles of this species and compare their parameters with different populations. Acoustic monitoring was conducted in La Paz Bay, Gulf of California. Recordings were inspected in spectrogram view in Raven Pro, selecting good quality whistles (n = 270). In the software Luscinia, contours were manually traced to obtain whistle frequencies and duration. Number of steps, inflection points and contour type were visually determined. We calculated the descriptive statistics of the selected whistle parameters and we compared the results with a dolphins population from the Eastern Pacific Ocean. Permutational multivariate analysis of variance (PERMANOVA) was performed to test the intraspecific variation of the whistle parameters among groups. In the present study the mean values (±SD) of the whistle parameters were: maximum frequency = 14.13 ± 3.71 kHz, minimum frequency = 8.44 ± 2.58 kHz and duration = 0.44 ± 0.31 s. Whistles with the upsweep contour were the most common ones (34.44%). The coefficient of variation (CV) values for modulation parameters were high (>100%), in accordance with other studies on dolphins. Whistle parameters showed significant differences among groups. Finally, ending and maximum frequencies, duration and inflection points of the whistles recorded in the present study were lower compared with the parameters of the long-beaked common dolphins from the Eastern Pacific Ocean. This study provides the first whistle characterization of long-beaked common dolphin from the Gulf of California and it will help future passive acoustic monitoring applications in the study area.}, }
@article {pmid37447139, year = {2023}, author = {Morales-Ferra, DL and Zavala-Sánchez, M&#xc1; and Jiménez-Ferrer, E and Trejo-Moreno, C and González-Cortazar, M and Gamboa-Gómez, CI and Guerrero-Romero, F and Zamilpa, A}, title = {Chemical Characterization, Antilipidemic Effect and Anti-Obesity Activity of Ludwigia octovalvis in a Murine Model of Metabolic Syndrome.}, journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {12}, number = {13}, pages = {}, pmid = {37447139}, issn = {2223-7747}, abstract = {Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) P.H. Raven is widely used in traditional medicine for different illnesses, including diabetes and hypertension. However, its impact on lipotoxicity and metabolic syndrome in vivo has not been addressed. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of this plant on the metabolic syndrome parameters in a C57BL6J mouse hypercaloric diet model. L. octovalvis hydroalcoholic extract and its ethyl acetate fraction (25 mg/kg/day) were used for sub-chronic assessment (10 weeks). Additionally, four subfractions (25 mg/kg) were evaluated in the postprandial triglyceridemia test in healthy C57BL6J mice. The hydroalcoholic extract and ethyl acetate fraction significantly decreased body weight gain (-6.9 g and -1.5 g), fasting glycemia (-46.1 and -31.2 mg/dL), systolic (-26.0 and -22.5 mmHg) and diastolic (-8.1 and 16.2 mmHg) blood pressure, free fatty acid concentration (-13.8 and -8.0 μg/mL) and insulin-resistance (measured by TyG index, -0.207 and -0.18), compared to the negative control. A postprandial triglyceridemia test showed that the effects in the sub-chronic model are due, at least in part, to improvement in this parameter. L. octovalvis treatments, particularly the hydroalcoholic extract, improve MS alterations and decrease free fatty acid concentration. These effects are possibly due to high contents of corilagin and ellagic acid.}, }
@article {pmid37439728, year = {2024}, author = {Markiewicz, R and Rahman, F and Apperly, I and Mazaheri, A and Segaert, K}, title = {It is not all about you: Communicative cooperation is determined by your partner's theory of mind abilities as well as your own.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Learning, memory, and cognition}, volume = {50}, number = {5}, pages = {833-844}, doi = {10.1037/xlm0001268}, pmid = {37439728}, issn = {1939-1285}, support = {//University of Birmingham/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; *Theory of Mind ; Communication ; Social Perception ; }, abstract = {We investigated the relationship between Theory of Mind (ToM) and communicative cooperation. Specifically, we examined whether communicative cooperation is affected by the ToM ability of one's cooperative partner as well as their own. ToM is the attribution of mental states to oneself and others; cooperation is the joint action that leads to achieving a shared goal. We measured cooperation using a novel communicative cooperation game completed by participants in pairs. ToM was measured via the Movies for Assessment of Social Cognition (MASC) task and fluid intelligence via the Raven task. Findings of 350 adults show that ToM scores of both players were predictors of cooperative failure, whereas Raven scores were not. Furthermore, participants were split into low- and high-ToM groups through a median split of the MASC scores: high-ToM individuals committed significantly fewer cooperative errors compared to their low-ToM counterparts. Therefore, we found a direct relationship between ToM and cooperation. Interestingly, we also examined how ToM scores of paired participants determine cooperation. We found that pairs with two high-ToM individuals committed significantly fewer errors compared to pairs with two low-ToM individuals. We speculate that reduced cooperation in low-low ToM pairs is a result of less efficient development of conceptual alignment and recovery from misalignment, compared to high-high ToM dyads. For the first time, we thus demonstrate that it is not all about you; both cooperative partners make key, independent, contributions to cooperative outcomes. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid37436821, year = {2023}, author = {Srivastava, S and Bertone, MP and Parmar, D and Walsh, C and De Allegri, M}, title = {The genesis of the PM-JAY health insurance scheme in India: technical and political elements influencing a national reform towards universal health coverage.}, journal = {Health policy and planning}, volume = {38}, number = {7}, pages = {862-875}, doi = {10.1093/heapol/czad045}, pmid = {37436821}, issn = {1460-2237}, support = {/GATES/Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation/United States ; /GATES/Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Health Care Reform ; *Universal Health Insurance ; Insurance, Health ; Policy ; India ; }, abstract = {Many countries are using health insurance to advance progress towards universal health coverage (UHC). India launched the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) health insurance scheme in 2018. We examine the political economy context around PM-JAY policy formulation, by examining the perspectives of policy stakeholders shaping decisions around the reform. More specifically, we focus on early policy design at the central (national) level. We use a framework on the politics of UHC reform proposed by Fox and Reich (The politics of universal health coverage in low- and middle-income countries: A framework for evaluation and action. J. Health Polit. Policy Law 2015;40:1023-1060), to categorize the reform into phases and examine the interactions between actors, institutions, interests, ideas and ideology which shaped reform decisions. We interviewed 15 respondents in Delhi between February and April 2019, who were either closely associated with the reform process or subject experts. The ruling centre-right government introduced PM-JAY shortly before national elections, drawing upon policy legacies from prior and state insurance schemes. Empowered policy entrepreneurs within the government focused discourse around ideas of UHC and strategic purchasing, and engaged in institution building leading to the creation of the National Health Authority and State Health Agencies through policy directives, thereby expanding state infrastructural and institutional power for insurance implementation. Indian state inputs were incorporated in scheme design features like mode of implementation, benefit package and provider network, while features like the coverage amount, portability of benefits and branding strategy were more centrally driven. These balanced negotiations opened up political space for a cohesive, central narrative of the reform and facilitated adoption. Our analysis shows that the PM-JAY reform focused on bureaucratic rather than ideological elements and that technical compromises and adjustments accommodating the interests of states enabled the political success of policy formulation. Appreciating these politics, power and structural issues shaping PM-JAY institutional design will be important to understand how PM-JAY is implemented and how it advances UHC in India.}, }
@article {pmid37413840, year = {2023}, author = {Inui, H and Minic, Z and Hüttmann, N and Fujita, K and Stoykova, P and Karadžić, I}, title = {Cucurbita pepo contains characteristic proteins without a signal peptide in the xylem sap.}, journal = {Journal of plant physiology}, volume = {287}, number = {}, pages = {154038}, doi = {10.1016/j.jplph.2023.154038}, pmid = {37413840}, issn = {1618-1328}, abstract = {Xylem sap is a fluid that transfers water and nutrients from the rhizosphere. This sap contains relatively low concentrations of proteins that originate from the extracellular space among the root cells. One of the characteristic proteins in the xylem sap of the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes cucumber and zucchini, is a major latex-like protein (MLP). MLPs are responsible for crop contamination through the transport of hydrophobic pollutants from the roots. However, detailed information on the content of MLPs in the xylem sap is not available. Proteomic analysis of root and xylem sap proteins from the Cucurbita pepo cultivars Patty Green (PG) and Raven (RA) showed that the xylem sap of cv. RA, a high accumulator of hydrophobic pollutants, contained four MLPs that accounted for over 85% of the total xylem sap proteins in this cultivar. The xylem sap of PG, a low accumulator, mainly contained an uncharacterized protein. The amount of each root protein between the PG and RA cultivars was significantly and positively correlated in spite of being with and without a signal peptide (SP). However, the amount of xylem sap proteins without an SP was not correlated. These results suggest that cv. RA is characterized by MLPs in the xylem sap.}, }
@article {pmid37410575, year = {2023}, author = {Li, SL and Li, KY and Song, T and Wu, D and Yin, NB and Wang, YQ}, title = {Long-Term Effects of Extended Upper Blepharoplasty Combined With Subbrow Skin Removal for Correction of Lateral Hooding in Asian Women.}, journal = {The Journal of craniofacial surgery}, volume = {34}, number = {5}, pages = {1550-1555}, doi = {10.1097/SCS.0000000000009348}, pmid = {37410575}, issn = {1536-3732}, mesh = {Aged ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Blepharoplasty/methods ; Cicatrix/surgery ; Eyelids/surgery ; Retrospective Studies ; Asian People ; }, abstract = {Upper eyelid aging with lateral hooding is common among Asian women older than 40 years. Since Asians tend to develop more visible scars than White people, we used an extended upper blepharoplasty technique to correct lateral hooding and conceal the scar, combined with the removal of the thick subbrow skin for women over 60 years of age, to achieve a stable, improved outcome. An extended cutaneous scalpel-shaped excision was designed and hid the extended part of the excision in the patient's upward crow's feet to address the redundant skin of lateral hooding. For patients older than 60 years, we used a crescent-shaped excision and simultaneously removed the thick skin under the eyebrow to reduce the likelihood of long-term postoperative pseudoexcess. A retrospective study was conducted on 40 Asian women who underwent upper eyelid rejuvenation surgery with the above methods from July 2020 to March 2021 (follow-up, 12-15 mo). Extended blepharoplasty notably corrected the lateral hooding and achieved a natural double eyelid. The postoperative scar was inconspicuous. For patients older than 60 years, the long-term rejuvenation outcome was stable when associated with subbrow skin removal. However, two patients older than 60 years in whom the subbrow skin was not removed developed pseudoexcess of the upper eyelid 1 year postoperatively. Extended blepharoplasty is a simple and effective technique for improving periorbital aging in Asian women, and the postoperative scarring was inconspicuous. For patients older than 60 years, we recommend removal of the thick subbrow skin to avoid long-term postoperative pseudoexcess.}, }
@article {pmid37408173, year = {2023}, author = {Braccini, F and Catoni, I and Belfkira, F and Lagier, J and Roze, E and Paris, J and Huth, J and Bronsard, V and Cartier, H and David, M and Galatoire, O and Obadia, D and Sabatier, H and Sarfati, E and Kestemont, P and Winter, C and Redaelli, A}, title = {SAMCEP Society consensus on the treatment of upper facial lines with botulinum neurotoxin type A: A tailored approach.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {22}, number = {10}, pages = {2692-2704}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.15768}, pmid = {37408173}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Humans ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A/therapeutic use ; Consensus ; Forehead ; Facial Muscles ; Treatment Outcome ; *Skin Aging ; *Neuromuscular Agents/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The safety and efficacy of botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNTA) treatments are well established, but injection techniques, target muscles, and toxin doses continue to evolve, with each refinement producing improvements in treatment outcomes. The recommendations in this consensus move away from standard templates and illustrate how to tailor treatments to individual patterns and strengths of muscle activity, and patient preferences.<br><br>METHODS: Seventeen experts in the fields of plastic surgery, dermatology, ophthalmology, otorhinolaryngology, and neurology convened in 2022 to develop consensus-based recommendations for the use of botulinum toxin A for the treatment of horizontal forehead lines, glabellar frown lines, and crow's feet lines that reflect current clinical practice. The focus was on how to tailor injections to individual patients to optimize treatment outcomes.<br><br>RESULTS: For each upper face indication, consensus members describe how to perform a dynamic assessment to optimize the dose and injection technique for each patient. A tailored treatment protocol is presented for commonly observed patterns of dynamic lines. Units of Inco are defined and the precise location of injection points, illustrated with the use of anatomical images.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This consensus provides up-to-date recommendations on the tailored treatment of upper facial lines based on the latest research and collective clinical experience of the expert injectors. Optimal outcomes require thorough patient evaluation, both at rest and during animation, using both visual and tactile cues; detailed understanding of facial muscular anatomy and how opposing muscles interact; and use of a BoNTA with high precision to target identified zones of excess muscle activity.}, }
@article {pmid37404274, year = {2023}, author = {Prinja, S and Dixit, J and Gupta, N and Dhankhar, A and Kataki, AC and Roy, PS and Mehra, N and Kumar, L and Singh, A and Malhotra, P and Goyal, A and Rajsekar, K and Krishnamurthy, MN and Gupta, S}, title = {Financial toxicity of cancer treatment in India: towards closing the cancer care gap.}, journal = {Frontiers in public health}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {1065737}, pmid = {37404274}, issn = {2296-2565}, mesh = {Humans ; *Financial Stress ; Hospitalization ; Health Expenditures ; Insurance, Health ; Family Characteristics ; *Neoplasms/epidemiology/therapy ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The rising economic burden of cancer on patients is an important determinant of access to treatment initiation and adherence in India. Several publicly financed health insurance (PFHI) schemes have been launched in India, with treatment for cancer as an explicit inclusion in the health benefit packages (HBPs). Although, financial toxicity is widely acknowledged to be a potential consequence of costly cancer treatment, little is known about its prevalence and determinants among the Indian population. There is a need to determine the optimal strategy for clinicians and cancer care centers to address the issue of high costs of care in order to minimize the financial toxicity, promote access to high value care and reduce health disparities.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 12,148 cancer patients were recruited at seven purposively selected cancer centres in India, to assess the out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) and financial toxicity among cancer patients. Mean OOPE incurred for outpatient treatment and hospitalization, was estimated by cancer site, stage, type of treatment and socio-demographic characteristics. Economic impact of cancer care on household financial risk protection was assessed using standard indicators of catastrophic health expenditures (CHE) and impoverishment, along with the determinants using logistic regression.<br><br>RESULTS: Mean direct OOPE per outpatient consultation and per episode of hospitalization was estimated as &#x20b9;8,053 (US$ 101) and &#x20b9;39,085 (US$ 492) respectively. Per patient annual direct OOPE incurred on cancer treatment was estimated as &#x20b9;331,177 (US$ 4,171). Diagnostics (36.4%) and medicines (45%) are major contributors of OOPE for outpatient treatment and hospitalization, respectively. The overall prevalence of CHE and impoverishment was higher among patients seeking outpatient treatment (80.4% and 67%, respectively) than hospitalization (29.8% and 17.2%, respectively). The odds of incurring CHE was 7.4 times higher among poorer patients [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR): 7.414] than richest. Enrolment in PM-JAY (CHE AOR&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.426, and impoverishment AOR&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.395) or a state sponsored scheme (CHE AOR&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.304 and impoverishment AOR&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.371) resulted in a significant reduction in CHE and impoverishment for an episode of hospitalization. The prevalence of CHE and impoverishment was significantly higher with hospitalization in private hospitals and longer duration of hospital stay (p <&#x2009;0.001). The extent of CHE and impoverishment due to direct costs incurred on outpatient treatment increased from 83% to 99.7% and, 63.9% to 97.1% after considering both direct and indirect costs borne by the patient and caregivers, respectively. In case of hospitalization, the extent of CHE increased from 23.6% (direct cost) to 59.4% (direct+ indirect costs) and impoverishment increased from 14.1% (direct cost) to 27% due to both direct and indirect cost of cancer treatment.<br><br>CONCLUSION: There is high economic burden on patients and their families due to cancer treatment. The increase in population and cancer services coverage of PFHI schemes, creating prepayment mechanisms like E-RUPI for outpatient diagnostic and staging services, and strengthening public hospitals can potentially reduce the financial burden among cancer patients in India. The disaggregated OOPE estimates could be useful input for future health technology analyses to determine cost-effective treatment strategies.}, }
@article {pmid37404070, year = {2023}, author = {Smith, MR and Sandhu, S and George, DJ and Chi, KN and Saad, F and Thiery-Vuillemin, A and Stàhl, O and Olmos, D and Danila, DC and Gafanov, R and Castro, E and Moon, H and Joshua, AM and Mason, GE and Espina, BM and Liu, Y and Lopez-Gitlitz, A and Francis, P and Bevans, KB and Fizazi, K}, title = {Health-related quality of life in GALAHAD: A multicenter, open-label, phase 2 study of niraparib for patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer and DNA-repair gene defects.}, journal = {Journal of managed care &amp; specialty pharmacy}, volume = {29}, number = {7}, pages = {758-768}, pmid = {37404070}, issn = {2376-1032}, support = {P30 CA008748/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Male ; Female ; Humans ; *Quality of Life ; *Prostatic Neoplasms, Castration-Resistant/drug therapy/genetics ; Indazoles/therapeutic use ; DNA ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Niraparib is a highly selective poly (adenosine diphosphateribose) polymerase-1 and poly (adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase-2 inhibitor indicated for select patients with ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancer. The phase 2 GALAHAD trial (NCT02854436) demonstrated that niraparib monotherapy is tolerable and efficacious in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and homologous recombination repair (HRR) gene alterations, particularly those with breast cancer gene (BRCA) alterations who had progressed on prior androgen signaling inhibitor therapy and taxane-based chemotherapy. OBJECTIVE: To report the prespecified patient-reported outcomes analysis from GALAHAD. METHODS: Eligible patients with alterations to BRCA1 and/or BRCA2 (BRCA cohort) and with pathogenic alterations in other HRR genes (other HRR cohort) were enrolled and received niraparib 300 mg once daily. Patient-reported outcome instruments included the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Prostate and the Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form. Changes from baseline were compared using a mixed-effect model for repeated measures. RESULTS: On average, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) improved in the BRCA cohort by cycle 3 (mean change = 6.03; 95% CI = 2.76-9.29) and was maintained above baseline until cycle 10 (mean change = 2.84; 95% CI = -1.95 to 7.63), whereas the other HRR cohort showed no early change in HRQoL from baseline (mean change = -0.07; 95% CI = -4.69 to 4.55) and declined by cycle 10 (mean change = -5.10; 95% CI = -15.3 to 5.06). Median time to deterioration in pain intensity and pain interference could not be estimated in either cohort. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with advanced mCRPC and BRCA alterations treated with niraparib experienced more meaningful improvement in overall HRQoL, pain intensity, and pain interference compared with those with other HRR alterations. In this population of castrate, heavily pretreated patients with mCRPC and HRR alterations, stabilization, and improvement in HRQoL may be relevant to consider when making treatment decisions. DISCLOSURES: This work was supported by Janssen Research &amp; Development, LLC (no grant number). Dr Smith has received grants and personal fees from Bayer, Amgen, Janssen, and Lilly; and has received personal fees from Astellas Pharma, Novartis, and Pfizer. Dr Sandhu has received grants from Amgen, Endocyte, and Genentech; has received grants and personal fees from AstraZeneca and Merck; and has received personal fees from Bristol Myers Squibb and Merck Serono. Dr George has received personal fees from the American Association for Cancer Research, Axess Oncology, Capio Biosciences, Constellation Pharma, EMD Serono, Flatiron, Ipsen, Merck Sharp &amp; Dohme, Michael J. Hennessey Association, Millennium Medical Publishing, Modra Pharma, Myovant Sciences, Inc., NCI Genitourinary, Nektar Therapeutics, Physician Education Resource, Propella TX, RevHealth, LLC, and UroGPO; has received grants and personal fees from Astellas Pharma, AstraZeneca, Bristol Myers Squibb, and Pfizer; has received personal fees and nonfinancial support from Bayer and UroToday; has received grants from Calithera and Novartis; and has received grants, personal fees, and nonfinancial support from Exelixis, Inc., Sanofi, and Janssen Pharma. Dr Chi has received grants from Janssen during the conduct of the study; has received grants and personal fees from AstraZeneca, Bayer, Astellas Pharma, Novartis, Pfizer, POINT Biopharma, Roche, and Sanofi; and has received personal fees from Daiichi Sankyo, Merck, and Bristol Myers Squibb. Dr Saad has received grants, personal fees, and nonfinancial support from Janssen during the conduct of the study; and has received grants, personal fees, and nonfinancial support from AstraZeneca, Astellas Pharma, Pfizer, Bayer, Myovant, Sanofi, and Novartis. Dr Thiery-Vuillemin has received grants, personal fees, and nonfinancial support from Pfizer; has received personal fees and nonfinancial support from AstraZeneca, Janssen, Ipsen, Roche/Genentech, Merck Sharp &amp; Dohme, and Astellas Pharma; and has received personal fees from Sanofi, Novartis, and Bristol Myers Squibb. Dr Olmos has received grants, personal fees, and nonfinancial support from AstraZeneca, Bayer, Janssen, and Pfizer; has received personal fees from Clovis, Daiichi Sankyo, and Merck Sharp &amp; Dohme; and has received nonfinancial support from Astellas Pharma, F. Hoffman-LaRoche, Genentech, and Ipsen. Dr Danila has received research support from the US Department of Defense, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the Prostate Cancer Foundation, Stand Up to Cancer, Janssen Research &amp; Development, Astellas Pharma, Medivation, Agensys, Genentech, and CreaTV. Dr Gafanov has received grants from Janssen during the conduct of the study. Dr Castro has received grants from Janssen during the conduct of the study; has received grants and personal fees from Janssen, Bayer, AstraZeneca, and Pfizer; and has received personal fees from Astellas Pharma, Merck Sharp &amp; Dohme, Roche, and Clovis. Dr Moon has received research funding from SeaGen, HuyaBio, Janssen, BMS, Aveo, Xencor, and has received personal fees from Axess Oncology, MJH, EMD Serono, and Pfizer. Dr Joshua has received nonfinancial support from Janssen; consulted or served in an advisory role for Neoleukin, Janssen Oncology, Ipsen, AstraZeneca, Sanofi, Noxopharm, IQvia, Pfizer, Novartis, Bristol Myers Squibb, Merck Serono, and Eisai; and received research funding from Bristol Myers Squibb, Janssen Oncology, Merck Sharp &amp; Dohme, Mayne Pharma, Roche/Genentech, Bayer, MacroGenics, Lilly, Pfizer, AstraZeneca, and Corvus Pharmaceuticals. Drs Mason, Liu, Bevans, Lopez-Gitlitz, and Francis and Mr Espina are employees of Janssen Research &amp; Development. Dr Mason owns stocks with Janssen. Dr Fizazi has participated in advisory boards and talks for Amgen, Astellas, AstraZeneca, Bayer, Clovis, Daiichi Sankyo, Janssen, MSD, Novartis/AAA, Pfizer, and Sanofi, with honoraria to his institution (Institut Gustave Roussy); has participated in advisory boards for, with personal honoraria from, Arvinas, CureVac, MacroGenics, and Orion. Study registration number: NCT02854436.}, }
@article {pmid37395718, year = {2023}, author = {Benham, PM and Cicero, C and DeRaad, DA and McCormack, JE and Wayne, RK and Escalona, M and Beraut, E and Marimuthu, MPA and Nguyen, O and Nachman, MW and Bowie, RCK}, title = {A highly contiguous reference genome for the Steller's jay (Cyanocitta stelleri).}, journal = {The Journal of heredity}, volume = {114}, number = {5}, pages = {549-560}, pmid = {37395718}, issn = {1465-7333}, support = {S10 OD010786/OD/NIH HHS/United States ; S10 OD018174/OD/NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Genome ; *Passeriformes ; Genomics ; Base Sequence ; Chromosomes ; Sex Chromosomes ; }, abstract = {The Steller's jay is a familiar bird of western forests from Alaska south to Nicaragua. Here, we report a draft reference assembly for the species generated from PacBio HiFi long-read and Omni-C chromatin-proximity sequencing data as part of the California Conservation Genomics Project (CCGP). Sequenced reads were assembled into 352 scaffolds totaling 1.16 Gb in length. Assembly metrics indicate a highly contiguous and complete assembly with a contig N50 of 7.8 Mb, scaffold N50 of 25.8 Mb, and BUSCO completeness score of 97.2%. Repetitive elements span 16.6% of the genome including nearly 90% of the W chromosome. Compared with high-quality assemblies from other members of the family Corvidae, the Steller's jay genome contains a larger proportion of repetitive elements than 4 crow species (Corvus), but a lower proportion of repetitive elements than the California scrub-jay (Aphelocoma californica). This reference genome will serve as an essential resource for future studies on speciation, local adaptation, phylogeography, and conservation genetics in this species of significant biological interest.}, }
@article {pmid37386928, year = {2023}, author = {Khan, S and Pathak, G and Milgraum, D and Tamhankar, M and Milgraum, S}, title = {Double vision due to lateral rectus injury after cosmetic botulinum toxin injections.}, journal = {The Australasian journal of dermatology}, volume = {64}, number = {3}, pages = {e220-e223}, doi = {10.1111/ajd.14120}, pmid = {37386928}, issn = {1440-0960}, mesh = {Humans ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A/adverse effects ; Diplopia/chemically induced ; *Neuromuscular Agents/adverse effects ; Face ; *Cosmetic Techniques/adverse effects ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {Facial intramuscular injections of Botulinum toxin (BoNT) injections are among the most common cosmetic procedures in dermatology. Rarely, serious adverse reactions such as blepharoptosis, diplopia and periorbital hematoma may occur with improper administration technique. Here we report a case of painless diplopia 5 weeks post-BoNT injection for 'crow's feet' likely due to inadvertent BoNT diffusion into the lateral rectus muscle causing a temporary palsy. This case aims to raise awareness of proper cosmetic BoNT injection techniques in the periorbital area to avoid ophthalmic complications.}, }
@article {pmid37382807, year = {2023}, author = {Stuhrmann, C}, title = {Sociobiology on Screen. The Controversy Through the Lens of Sociobiology: Doing What Comes Naturally.}, journal = {Journal of the history of biology}, volume = {56}, number = {2}, pages = {365-397}, pmid = {37382807}, issn = {1573-0387}, support = {316166947//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; }, abstract = {When the sociobiology debate erupted in 1975, there were almost too many contributions to the heated exchanges between sociobiologists and their critics to count. In the fall of 1976, a Canadian educational film entitled Sociobiology: Doing What Comes Naturally sparked further controversy due to its graphic visuals and outrageous narration. While critics claimed the film was a promotional tool to further the sociobiological agenda in educational settings, sociobiologists quickly distanced themselves from the film and, in turn, accused the critics of consciously misrepresenting sociobiology by organizing showings of the film. Using audio, video, archival, and published sources, this paper explores the complicated history of Sociobiology: Doing What Comes Naturally and demonstrates how the public debate about the film reflects the positions, polemics, and polarization of the sociobiology debate as a whole.}, }
@article {pmid37375457, year = {2023}, author = {Talmi-Frank, D and Byas, AD and Murrieta, R and Weger-Lucarelli, J and Rückert, C and Gallichotte, EN and Yoshimoto, JA and Allen, C and Bosco-Lauth, AM and Graham, B and Felix, TA and Brault, AC and Ebel, GD}, title = {Intracellular Diversity of WNV within Circulating Avian Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Reveals Host-Dependent Patterns of Polyinfection.}, journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {12}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {37375457}, issn = {2076-0817}, support = {F31 AI134108/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI067380/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; T32 OD010437/OD/NIH HHS/United States ; od010437/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) populations exist as mutant swarms that are maintained between arthropods and vertebrates. West Nile virus (WNV) population dynamics are host-dependent. In American crows, purifying selection is weak and population diversity is high compared to American robins, which have 100- to 1000-fold lower viremia. WNV passed in robins leads to fitness gains, whereas that passed in crows does not. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that high crow viremia allows for higher genetic diversity within individual avian peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), reasoning that this could have produced the previously observed host-specific differences in genetic diversity and fitness. Specifically, we infected cells and birds with a molecularly barcoded WNV and sequenced viral RNA from single cells to quantify the number of WNV barcodes in each. Our results demonstrate that the richness of WNV populations within crows far exceeds that in robins. Similarly, rare WNV variants were maintained by crows more frequently than by robins. Our results suggest that increased viremia in crows relative to robins leads to the maintenance of defective genomes and less prevalent variants, presumably through complementation. Our findings further suggest that weaker purifying selection in highly susceptible crows is attributable to this higher viremia, polyinfections and complementation.}, }
@article {pmid37372429, year = {2023}, author = {Khan, SI and Yamada, R and Shiroma, R and Abe, T and Kozaki, A}, title = {Properties of INDETERMINATE DOMAIN Proteins from Physcomitrium patens: DNA-Binding, Interaction with GRAS Proteins, and Transcriptional Activity.}, journal = {Genes}, volume = {14}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {37372429}, issn = {2073-4425}, mesh = {*Arabidopsis/genetics/metabolism ; Transcription Factors/metabolism ; Plants/genetics ; Signal Transduction/physiology ; *Bryopsida/genetics ; DNA/metabolism ; }, abstract = {INDETERMINATE DOMAIN (IDD) proteins are plant-specific transcription factors that interact with GRAS proteins, such as DELLA and SHORT ROOT (SHR), to regulate target genes. The combination of IDD and DELLA proteins regulates genes involved in gibberellic acid (GA) synthesis and GA signaling, whereas the combination of IDD with the complex of SHR and SCARECROW, another GRAS protein, regulates genes involved in root tissue formation. Previous bioinformatic research identified seven IDDs, two DELLA, and two SHR genes in Physcomitrium patens, a model organism for non-vascular plants (bryophytes), which lack a GA signaling pathway and roots. In this study, DNA-binding properties and protein-protein interaction of IDDs from P. patens (PpIDD) were analyzed. Our results showed that the DNA-binding properties of PpIDDs were largely conserved between moss and seed plants. Four PpIDDs showed interaction with Arabidopsis DELLA (AtDELLA) proteins but not with PpDELLAs, and one PpIDD showed interaction with PpSHR but not with AtSHR. Moreover, AtIDD10 (JACKDAW) interacted with PpSHR but not with PpDELLAs. Our results indicate that DELLA proteins have modified their structure to interact with IDD proteins during evolution from moss lineage to seed plants, whereas the interaction of IDD and SHR was already present in moss lineage.}, }
@article {pmid37371443, year = {2023}, author = {Alhamdan, AA and Murphy, MJ and Crewther, SG}, title = {Visual Motor Reaction Times Predict Receptive and Expressive Language Development in Early School-Age Children.}, journal = {Brain sciences}, volume = {13}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {37371443}, issn = {2076-3425}, abstract = {Proficiency of multisensory processing and motor skill are often associated with early cognitive, social, and language development. However, little research exists regarding the relationship between multisensory motor reaction times (MRTs) to auditory, visual and audiovisual stimuli, and classical measures of receptive language and expressive vocabulary development in school-age children. Thus, this study aimed to examine the concurrent development of performance in classical tests of receptive (Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test; abbreviated as PPVT) and expressive vocabulary (Expressive Vocabulary Test; abbreviated as EVT), nonverbal intelligence (NVIQ) (determined with the aid of Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices; abbreviated as RCPM), speed of visual-verbal processing in the Rapid Automatic Naming (RAN) test, Eye-Hand Co-ordination (EHC) in the SLURP task, and multisensory MRTs, in children (n = 75), aged between 5 and 10 years. Bayesian statistical analysis showed evidence for age group differences in EVT performance, while PPVT was only different for the youngest group of children aged 5-6, supporting different developmental trajectories in vocabulary acquisition. Bayesian correlations revealed evidence for associations between age, NVIQ, and vocabulary measures, with decisive evidence and a higher correlation (r = 0.57 to 0.68) between EVT, MRT tasks, and EHC visuomotor processing. This was further supported by regression analyses indicating that EVT performance was the strongest unique predictor of multisensory MRTs, EHC, and RAN time. Additionally, visual MRTs were found to predict both receptive and expressive vocabulary. The findings of the study have important implications as accessible school-based assessments of the concurrent development of NVIQ, language, and multisensory processing; and hence as rapid and timely measures of developmental and neurodevelopmental status.}, }
@article {pmid37371219, year = {2023}, author = {Lin, YY and Hsu, WY and Yen, CE and Hu, SW}, title = {Association of Dental Fluorosis and Urinary Fluoride with Intelligence among Schoolchildren.}, journal = {Children (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {10}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {37371219}, issn = {2227-9067}, support = {MOST 108-2314-B-040-007//Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan/ ; }, abstract = {Fluoride is present naturally in water and has been used worldwide for the prevention of caries. Several studies conducted in high water fluoride or endemic fluorosis areas reported that fluoride adversely affected children's cognitive function, but some studies had negative findings. This study aimed to assess the relationship between urinary fluoride, dental fluorosis, and intelligence among schoolchildren living in communities with non-fluoridated drinking water. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 562 children aged 6-12 years in Taichung, Taiwan. Each child's urinary fluoride level was determined by a fluoride-ion-selective electrode, and the dental fluorosis condition was evaluated according to the criteria of Dean's Index. The Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices-Parallel and Standard Progressive Matrices-Parallel were used to assess children's intelligence. The results showed that the mean (±standard deviation) urinary fluoride concentrations were 0.40 ± 0.27 mg/L (0.43 ± 0.23 mg/g creatinine) among participants. The prevalence of dental fluorosis was 23.67%. After extensive evaluation of potential confounders, dental fluorosis and urinary fluoride were not associated with intelligence quotient (IQ) scores or grades in the regression models. In conclusion, dental fluorosis and urinary fluoride levels were not significantly related to the IQ of schoolchildren living in areas with low drinking water fluoride.}, }
@article {pmid37370159, year = {2023}, author = {Srivastava, S and Bertone, MP and Basu, S and De Allegri, M and Brenner, S}, title = {Implementation of PM-JAY in India: a qualitative study exploring the role of competency, organizational and leadership drivers shaping early roll-out of publicly funded health insurance in three Indian states.}, journal = {Health research policy and systems}, volume = {21}, number = {1}, pages = {65}, pmid = {37370159}, issn = {1478-4505}, mesh = {Humans ; India ; *Leadership ; *Insurance, Health ; Hospitals ; Government Agencies ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), a publicly funded health insurance scheme, was launched in India in September 2018 to provide financial access to health services for poor Indians. PM-JAY design enables state-level program adaptations to facilitate implementation in a decentralized health implementation space. This study examines the competency, organizational, and leadership approaches affecting PM-JAY implementation in three contextually different Indian states.<br><br>METHODS: We used a framework on implementation drivers (competency, organizational, and leadership) to understand factors facilitating or hampering implementation experiences in three PM-JAY models: third-party administrator in Uttar Pradesh, insurance in Chhattisgarh, and hybrid in Tamil Nadu. We adopted a qualitative exploratory approach and conducted 92 interviews with national, state, district, and hospital stakeholders involved in program design and implementation in Delhi, three state capitals, and two anonymized districts in each state, between February and April 2019. We used a deductive approach to content analysis and interpreted coded material to identify linkages between organizational features, drivers, and contextual elements affecting implementation.<br><br>RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: PM-JAY guideline flexibilities enabled implementation in very different states through state-adapted implementation models. These models utilized contextually relevant adaptations for staff and facility competencies and organizational and facilitative administration, which had considerable scope for improvement in terms of recruitment, competency development, programmatic implementation support, and rationalizing the joint needs of the program and implementers. Adaptations also created structural barriers in staff interactions and challenged implicit power asymmetries and organizational culture, indicating a need for aligning staff hierarchies and incentive structures. At the same time, specific adaptations such as decentralizing staff selection and task shifting (all models); sharing of claims processing between the insurer and state agency (insurance and hybrid model); and using stringent empanelment, accreditation, monitoring, and benchmarking criteria for performance assessment, and reserving secondary care benefit packages for public hospitals (both in the hybrid model) contributed to successful implementation. Contextual elements such as institutional memory of previous schemes and underlying state capacities influenced all aspects of implementation, including leadership styles and autonomy. These variations make comparisons across models difficult, yet highlight constraints and opportunities for cross-learning and optimizing implementation to achieve universal health coverage in decentralized contexts.}, }
@article {pmid37369211, year = {2023}, author = {Johnston, M and Brecht, KF and Nieder, A}, title = {Crows flexibly apply statistical inferences based on previous experience.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {33}, number = {15}, pages = {3238-3243.e3}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2023.06.023}, pmid = {37369211}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Crows ; Problem Solving ; Behavior, Animal ; Uncertainty ; }, abstract = {Statistical inference, the ability to use limited information to draw conclusions about the likelihood of an event, is critical for decision-making during uncertainty. The ability to make statistical inferences was thought to be a uniquely human skill requiring verbal instruction and mathematical reasoning.[1] However, basic inferences have been demonstrated in both preliterate and pre-numerate individuals,[2][,][3][,][4][,][5][,][6][,][7] as well as non-human primates.[8] More recently, the ability to make statistical inferences has been extended to members outside of the primate lineage in birds.[9][,][10] True statistical inference requires subjects use relative rather than absolute frequency of previously experienced events. Here, we show that crows can relate memorized reward probabilities to infer reward-maximizing decisions. Two crows were trained to associate multiple reward probabilities ranging from 10% to 90% to arbitrary stimuli. When later faced with the choice between various stimulus combinations, crows retrieved the reward probabilities associated with individual stimuli from memory and used them to gain maximum reward. The crows showed behavioral distance and size effects when judging reward values, indicating that the crows represented probabilities as abstract magnitudes. When controlling for absolute reward frequency, crows still made reward-maximizing choices, which is the signature of true statistical inference. Our study provides compelling evidence of decision-making by relative reward frequency in a statistical inference task.}, }
@article {pmid37367521, year = {2023}, author = {Gonthier, C}, title = {Should Intelligence Tests Be Speeded or Unspeeded? A Brief Review of the Effects of Time Pressure on Response Processes and an Experimental Study with Raven's Matrices.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {11}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {37367521}, issn = {2079-3200}, abstract = {Intelligence tests are often performed under time constraints for practical reasons, but the effects of time pressure on reasoning performance are poorly understood. The first part of this work provides a brief review of major expected effects of time pressure, which includes forcing participants to skip items, convoking a mental speed factor, constraining response times, qualitatively altering cognitive processing, affecting anxiety and motivation, and interacting with individual differences. The second part presents data collected with Raven's matrices under three conditions of speededness to provide further insight into the complex effects of time pressure, with three major findings. First, even mild time pressure (with enough time available for all participants to complete the task at a leisurely pace) induced speeding throughout the whole task, starting with the very first item, and participants sped up more than was actually required. Second, time pressure came with lower confidence and poorer strategy use and a substantial decrease of accuracy (d = 0.35), even when controlling for response time at the item level-indicating a detrimental effect on cognitive processing beyond speeding. Third, time pressure disproportionately reduced response times for difficult items and participants with high ability, working memory capacity, or need for cognition, although this did not differentially affect ability estimates. Overall, both the review and empirical sections show that the effects of time pressure go well beyond forcing participants to speed or skip the last few items and make even mild time constraints inadvisable when attempting to measure maximal performance, especially for high-performing samples.}, }
@article {pmid37367515, year = {2023}, author = {Zhou, Y and Jia, N}, title = {The Impact of Item Difficulty on Judgment of Confidence-A Cross-Level Moderated Mediation Model.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {11}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {37367515}, issn = {2079-3200}, support = {22FJKB019//Ning Jia/ ; }, abstract = {The factors that influence metacognitive judgments often appear in combination, rather than in isolation. The multi-cue utilization model proposes that individuals often make use of multiple cues when making judgments. Previous studies have focused on the integration of intrinsic and extrinsic cues, while the current investigation examines the integration and influence of intrinsic cues and mnemonic cues. Judgment of confidence is a common form of metacognitive judgment. In this study, 37 college students completed Raven's Progressive Matrices and made judgments of confidence. We used the cross-level moderated mediation model to explore the impact of item difficulty on confidence judgments. Our results indicated that item difficulty negatively predicts the level of confidence. Item difficulty has an impact on the confidence evaluation by altering the processing fluency of intermediate variables. The joint effect of intrinsic cue item difficulty and mnemonic cue processing fluency influences confidence judgments. Additionally, we found that intelligence moderates the effect of difficulty on processing fluency across levels. Specifically, individuals with higher intelligence exhibited lower fluency on difficult tasks and higher fluency on simple tasks than individuals with lower intelligence. These findings expand on the multi-cue utilization model and integrate the influence mechanism of intrinsic and mnemonic cues on confidence judgments. Finally, we propose and verify a cross-level moderated mediation model that explains how item difficulty affects confidence judgments.}, }
@article {pmid37363495, year = {2023}, author = {Mohammadi, Y and Bozorgkhou, H and Hadavi, SM and Shojaei, M and Rezaei Khodadadi, F and Najafi, S and Karimi, Z and Mehdibeygi Sarvestani, M}, title = {The effectiveness of neurofeedback on the management of academic performance in students with academic failure: experimental research.}, journal = {Annals of medicine and surgery (2012)}, volume = {85}, number = {6}, pages = {2677-2682}, pmid = {37363495}, issn = {2049-0801}, abstract = {UNLABELLED: The present study aimed to study the impact of neurofeedback on the academic performance of nursing students with academic failure.<br><br>METHODS: This study was an experimental one with a pretest-posttest design with a control group. The statistical population of this research was the nursing students of the Faculty of Nursing, Tehran University of Medical Sciences University of Medical Sciences. The sample of this study consisted of 60 individuals chosen by a simple random sampling method and two experiment groups (N=30) and a control group (N=30) were replaced by accident. Neurofeedback was an advanced Raven test and a researcher-made questionnaire for data collection. Thereafter, the experimental group was treated with neurofeedback for 7-10 weeks and 20 50-min therapeutic sessions as the experimental condition. In the first 130&#xa0;s, the baseline was determined for the individual, and during the session, the baseline was practiced. Each session consisted of six exercises, each lasting 7&#xa0;min.<br><br>RESULTS: The results of the covariance analysis showed that students who had an educational drop and were trained in neurofeedback sessions showed a significant increase in the next half (P<0.05) compared to the control group.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results of this study showed that neurofeedback is an effective method for managing the academic performance of nursing students with academic failure.}, }
@article {pmid37362274, year = {2023}, author = {He, J and Peng, Z and Zhang, L and Zuo, L and Cui, D and Li, Q}, title = {Enhanced crow search algorithm with multi-stage search integration for global optimization problems.}, journal = {Soft computing}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-31}, pmid = {37362274}, issn = {1432-7643}, abstract = {Crow search algorithm (CSA), as a new swarm intelligence algorithm that simulates the crows' behaviors of hiding and tracking food in nature, performs well in solving many optimization problems. However, while handling complex and high-dimensional global optimization problems, CSA is apt to fall into evolutionary stagnation and has slow convergence speed, low accuracy, and weak robustness. This is mainly because it only utilizes a single search stage, where position updating relies on random following among individuals or arbitrary flight of individuals. To address these deficiencies, a CSA with multi-stage search integration (MSCSA) is presented. Chaos and multiple opposition-based learning techniques are first introduced to improve original population quality and ergodicity. The free foraging stage based on normal random distribution and Lévy flight is designed to conduct local search for enhancing the solution accuracy. And the following stage using mixed guiding individuals is presented to perform global search for expanding the search space through tracing each other among individuals. Finally, the large-scale migration stage based on the best individual and mixed guiding individuals concentrates on increasing the population diversity and helping the population jump out of local optima by moving the population to a promising area. All of these strategies form multi-level and multi-granularity balances between global exploration and local exploitation throughout the evolution. The proposed MSCSA is compared with a range of other algorithms, including original CSA, three outstanding variants of CSA, two classical meta-heuristics, and six state-of-the-art meta-heuristics covering different categories. The experiments are conducted based on the complex and high-dimensional benchmark functions CEC 2017 and CEC 2010, respectively. The experimental and statistical results demonstrate that MSCSA is competitive for tackling large-scale complicated problems, and is significantly superior to the competitors.}, }
@article {pmid37353703, year = {2023}, author = {Kang, KH and Nam, KB and Jeong, BS and Kim, JS and Yoo, JC}, title = {The use of plastic litter as nesting material by the azure-winged magpie Cyanopica cyanus in an agricultural environment of South Korea.}, journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international}, volume = {30}, number = {35}, pages = {84814-84821}, pmid = {37353703}, issn = {1614-7499}, mesh = {Animals ; *Passeriformes ; Republic of Korea ; Soil ; }, abstract = {In bird species, anthropogenic nesting materials have been known to have a negative effect on the survival of birds in general, but in some species, these can be used instead of natural materials, which can have a positive effect on the structural aspects of nests. Our study aims to investigate the type and amount of anthropogenic materials found in the nests of the colonial breeding azure-winged magpie (Cyanopica cyanus) in an agricultural area, as well as the characteristics of these used for each nest structure. We found that plastic litter was used in all of the azure-winged magpie breeding nests observed, and the types and amounts of plastic litter used differed between the cup and the outer. In all nests, soft, elastic, and insulating materials such as polyester fiber were mainly observed in the cup, and strings that weave and anchor branches and soil from nature were mostly found in the outer. The amount of plastic litter used in nests was related to the size of the nest. Plastic litter used in nests is thought to be collected from agricultural materials used in agricultural lands, vinyl greenhouses, and agricultural warehouses in our study site. Consequently, we expect that the phenomenon of azure-winged magpies using plastic litters for nest building may be common situation for the current agricultural environment where plastics are widespread.}, }
@article {pmid37351726, year = {2023}, author = {Martín-Turrero, I and Sureda, X and Escobar, F and Bilal, U and Berasaluce, M and Valiente, R}, title = {How Can We Measure Alcohol Outlet Density Around Schools? A Comparison Between Two Buffer-Based Methods.}, journal = {Journal of urban health : bulletin of the New York Academy of Medicine}, volume = {100}, number = {3}, pages = {627-637}, pmid = {37351726}, issn = {1468-2869}, support = {DP5 OD026429/OD/NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Alcoholic Beverages ; *Commerce ; Geographic Information Systems ; Alcohol Drinking/epidemiology ; Residence Characteristics ; Schools ; }, abstract = {Measuring the density of alcohol outlets around schools is a critical step towards understanding the drivers of drinking among adolescents. Different methodologies have been used in the literature for this purpose, but the implications of using one methodology or another have not been clearly assessed. Our aim was to compare different methods to measure alcohol outlet density and highlight under which characteristics of the environment might be best using each approach. We used Geographic Information Systems to geolocate schools (n = 576) and alcohol outlets (n = 21,732) in Madrid. We defined the density of alcohol outlets as the number of establishments within an area of 400 m around schools measured using two buffering methods: crow flies' and street network distances. We evaluated the agreement between both methods visually and through regression models, including street connectivity, population density, and density of recreational venues as predictors of disagreement. The density of alcohol outlets around schools was higher using crow flies' distances compared to street network distances. The differences between methodologies were wider in areas of higher density of outlets, especially in the downtown areas, where there are higher population density and street connectivity. Our results suggest that the spatial characteristics and morphology of the study area (e.g., street connectivity and population density) should be considered when deciding the methodology to be used to measure alcohol outlet density. Future studies should explore the implications of different exposure measures in their association with drinking prevalence and consumption patterns among different geographical contexts.}, }
@article {pmid37349568, year = {2023}, author = {Baumann, C and Hussain, ST and Roblíčková, M and Riede, F and Mannino, MA and Bocherens, H}, title = {Evidence for hunter-gatherer impacts on raven diet and ecology in the Gravettian of Southern Moravia.}, journal = {Nature ecology &amp; evolution}, volume = {7}, number = {8}, pages = {1302-1314}, pmid = {37349568}, issn = {2397-334X}, support = {817564/ERC_/European Research Council/International ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Adult ; Humans ; *Crows ; Ecosystem ; Ecology ; Diet ; Bone and Bones ; }, abstract = {The earlier Gravettian of Southern Moravia-the Pavlovian-is notable for the many raven bones (Corvus corax) documented in its faunal assemblages. On the basis of the rich zooarchaeological and settlement data from the Pavlovian, previous work suggested that common ravens were attracted by human domestic activities and subsequently captured by Pavlovian people, presumably for feathers and perhaps food. Here, we report independent δ[15]N, δ[13]C and δ[34]S stable isotope data obtained from 12 adult ravens from the Pavlovian key sites of Předmostí I, Pavlov I and Dolní Věstonice I to test this idea. We show that Pavlovian ravens regularly fed on larger herbivores and especially mammoths, aligning in feeding preferences with contemporaneous Gravettian foragers. We argue that opportunistic-generalist ravens were encouraged by human settlement and carcass provisioning. Our data may thus provide surprisingly early evidence for incipient synanthropism among Palaeolithic ravens. We suggest that anthropogenic manipulation of carrion supply dynamics furnished unique contexts for the emergence of human-oriented animal behaviours, in turn promoting novel human foraging opportunities-dynamics which are therefore important for understanding early hunter-gatherer ecosystem impacts.}, }
@article {pmid37341388, year = {2023}, author = {Flanagan, AM and Masuda, B and Komarczyk, L and Kuhar, A and Farabaugh, S and Swaisgood, RR}, title = {Adapting conservation breeding techniques using a data-driven approach to restore the 'Alalā (Hawaiian crow, Corvus hawaiiensis).}, journal = {Zoo biology}, volume = {42}, number = {6}, pages = {834-839}, doi = {10.1002/zoo.21794}, pmid = {37341388}, issn = {1098-2361}, support = {//Funding for conservation breeding was provided by: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, State of Hawaii Division of Forestry and Wildlife, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, The Max and Yetta Karasik Family Foundation, Moore Family Foundation, and Anonymous Donors/ ; }, mesh = {Female ; Animals ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; *Crows ; Hawaii ; Animals, Zoo ; Endangered Species ; }, abstract = {For some critically endangered species, conservation breeding is a vital steppingstone toward re-establishing wild populations. The 'Alalā (Hawaiian crow, Corvus hawaiiensis), currently extinct in the wild, exists today only in a conservation breeding program, which, for many years, utilized successful hands-on husbandry approaches such as separating and resocializing pairs, providing partially manmade nests, artificially incubating eggs, and puppet rearing nestlings. Yet, a top priority of any conservation breeding program is to retain natural behaviors essential to postrelease survival and reproduction, to achieve successful reintroduction and restoration to the wild. We describe how we are adapting 'Alalā husbandry techniques to strengthen pair bonds through full-time socialization, enable pairs to build robust nests, encourage females to incubate eggs to hatch, and provide pairs and their offspring with vital parental rearing experiences. We discuss the use of standardized, data-driven methods to objectively track our progress towards successful parental breeding and to select release candidates based on their likelihood to survive and breed in the wild. The information shared in this report can be applied to other conservation breeding programs, particularly those implementing or transitioning to husbandry techniques geared towards preparing species to thrive in the wild.}, }
@article {pmid37339600, year = {2023}, author = {Butterworth, B}, title = {Categorising: Inside the crow's brain.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {33}, number = {12}, pages = {R694-R695}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2023.05.022}, pmid = {37339600}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Brain/physiology ; Learning ; Neurons/physiology ; Telencephalon/physiology ; }, abstract = {Crows can learn to categorise line lengths into experimenter-defined categories. The crow's brain codes and recodes line lengths in individual neurons in the nidopallium caudolaterale, part of the telencephalon.}, }
@article {pmid37335808, year = {2023}, author = {Li, F and Chen, H and Chen, D and Zhang, B and Shi, Q and He, X and Zhao, H and Wang, F}, title = {Clinical evidence of the efficacy and safety of a new multi-peptide anti-aging topical eye serum.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {22}, number = {12}, pages = {3340-3346}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.15849}, pmid = {37335808}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//Dingmageili Biotechnology Ltd./ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Adult ; Skin/diagnostic imaging ; *Skin Aging ; Peptides/adverse effects ; *Cosmetics/therapeutic use ; Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Skin aging is a complex multifactorial progressive process. With age, intrinsic and extrinsic factors cause the loss of skin elasticity, with the formation of wrinkles, resulting in skin sagging through various pathways. A combination of multiple bioactive peptides could be used as a treatment for skin wrinkles and sagging.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the cosmetic efficacy of a multi-peptide eye serum as a daily skin-care product for improving the periocular skin of women within the ages of 20-45&#x2009;years.<br><br>METHODS: The stratum corneum skin hydration and skin elasticity were assessed using a Corneometer CM825 and Skin Elastometer MPA580, respectively. The PRIMOS CR technique based on digital strip projection technology was used for skin image and wrinkle analysis around the "crow's feet" area. Self-assessment questionnaires were filled on Day 14 and 28 of product use.<br><br>RESULTS: This study included 32 subjects with an average age of 28.5&#x2009;years. On Day 28, there was a significant decrease in the number, depth, and volume of wrinkles. Skin hydration, elasticity, and firmness increased continuously during the study period, consistent with typical anti-aging claims. A majority of the participants (75.00%) expressed overall satisfaction with their skin appearance after using the product. Most participants noted a visible skin improvement, with an increase in skin elasticity and smoothness, and confirmed the extensibility, applicability, and temperance of the product. No adverse reactions related to product use were observed.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The multi-peptide eye serum uses a multi-targeted mechanism against skin aging to improve the skin appearance, making it an ideal choice for daily skincare.}, }
@article {pmid37324165, year = {2023}, author = {Sone, K and Tanimoto, S and Toyohara, Y and Taguchi, A and Miyamoto, Y and Mori, M and Iriyama, T and Wada-Hiraike, O and Osuga, Y}, title = {Evolution of a surgical system using deep learning in minimally invasive surgery (Review).}, journal = {Biomedical reports}, volume = {19}, number = {1}, pages = {45}, pmid = {37324165}, issn = {2049-9442}, abstract = {Recently, artificial intelligence (AI) has been applied in various fields due to the development of new learning methods, such as deep learning, and the marked progress in computational processing speed. AI is also being applied in the medical field for medical image recognition and omics analysis of genomes and other data. Recently, AI applications for videos of minimally invasive surgeries have also advanced, and studies on such applications are increasing. In the present review, studies that focused on the following topics were selected: i) Organ and anatomy identification, ii) instrument identification, iii) procedure and surgical phase recognition, iv) surgery-time prediction, v) identification of an appropriate incision line, and vi) surgical education. The development of autonomous surgical robots is also progressing, with the Smart Tissue Autonomous Robot (STAR) and RAVEN systems being the most reported developments. STAR, in particular, is currently being used in laparoscopic imaging to recognize the surgical site from laparoscopic images and is in the process of establishing an automated suturing system, albeit in animal experiments. The present review examined the possibility of fully autonomous surgical robots in the future.}, }
@article {pmid37323951, year = {2022}, author = {Rostami, M and Faridi, F and Khosrowabadi, R}, title = {Brain Functional Correlates of Intelligence Score in ADHD Based on EEG.}, journal = {Basic and clinical neuroscience}, volume = {13}, number = {6}, pages = {883-900}, pmid = {37323951}, issn = {2008-126X}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: It has been shown that intelligence as a general mental ability is related to the structure and function of the brain regions. However, the specificity of these regional dependencies to the intelligence scores in the typical and atypical developed individuals needs to be well understood. In this study, we hypothesized that neural correlates of IQ should not have a fixed pattern rather they must follow a dynamic pattern to compensate for the functional deficits caused by a neurodevelopmental disorder. Therefore, electroencephalography (EEG) correlates of normal IQ in various subtypes of attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) were compared with a group of healthy controls.<br><br>METHODS: Sixty-three ADHD subjects comprising combined, inattentive, and hyperactive individuals diagnosed by a psychiatrist using structural clinical interview for DSM-V, and 46 healthy controls with similar normal IQ scores were recruited in this study. The subjects' EEG data were then recorded during an eye-closed resting condition. The subjects' intelligence level was measured by Raven's standard progressive matrices. Then, the association between IQ and the power of the EEG signal was computed in the conventional frequency bands. Subsequently, topographical representations of these associations were compared between the groups.<br><br>RESULTS: Our results demonstrated that the association between IQ score and EEG power is not the same in various ADHD subtypes and healthy controls.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This finding suggests a compensatory mechanism in ADHD individuals for changing the regional oscillatory pattern to maintain the IQ within a normal range.}, }
@article {pmid37321662, year = {2023}, author = {Mohammed, WJ and MacDonald, LA and Thomas, KE and McDonald, I and Turner, KW and Wolfe, BB and Hall, RI}, title = {Ecosystem responses of shallow thermokarst lakes to climate-driven hydrological change: Insights from long-term monitoring of periphytic diatom community composition at Old Crow Flats (Yukon, Canada).}, journal = {Science progress}, volume = {106}, number = {2}, pages = {368504231181452}, pmid = {37321662}, issn = {2047-7163}, mesh = {Animals ; Lakes/chemistry ; *Diatoms ; Ecosystem ; *Crows ; Yukon Territory ; Canada ; Water ; }, abstract = {Shallow waterbodies are abundant in Arctic and subarctic landscapes where they provide productive wildlife habitat and hold cultural and socioeconomic importance for Indigenous communities. Their vulnerability to climate-driven hydrological and limnological changes enhances a need for long-term monitoring data capable of tracking aquatic ecosystem responses. Here, we evaluate biological and inferred physicochemical responses associated with a rise in rainfall-generated runoff and increasingly positive lake water balances in Old Crow Flats (OCF), a 5600 km[2] thermokarst landscape in northern Yukon. This is achieved by analyzing periphytic diatom community composition in biofilms accrued on artificial-substrate samplers at 14 lakes collected mostly annually during 2008-2019 CE. Results reveal that diatom communities at 10 of the 14 lakes converged toward a composition typical of lakes with rainfall-dominated input waters. These include six of nine lakes that were not initially dominated by rainfall input. The shifts in diatom community composition infer rise of lake-water pH and ionic content, and they reveal that northern shallow lake ecosystems are responsive to climate-driven increases in rainfall. Based on data generated during the 12 -year-long monitoring period, we conclude that lakes located centrally within OCF are most vulnerable to rapid climate-driven hydroecological change due to flat terrain, larger lake surface area, and sparse terrestrial vegetation, which provide less resistance to lake expansion, shoreline erosion, and sudden drainage. This information assists the local Indigenous community and natural resource stewardship agencies to anticipate changes to traditional food sources and inform adaptation options.}, }
@article {pmid37306010, year = {2023}, author = {Costello, JH and Colin, SP and Gemmell, BJ and Dabiri, JO and Kanso, EA}, title = {A fundamental propulsive mechanism employed by swimmers and flyers throughout the animal kingdom.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {226}, number = {11}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.245346}, pmid = {37306010}, issn = {1477-9145}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Engineering ; Hydrodynamics ; Motion ; Movement ; }, abstract = {Even casual observations of a crow in flight or a shark swimming demonstrate that animal propulsive structures bend in patterned sequences during movement. Detailed engineering studies using controlled models in combination with analysis of flows left in the wakes of moving animals or objects have largely confirmed that flexibility can confer speed and efficiency advantages. These studies have generally focused on the material properties of propulsive structures (propulsors). However, recent developments provide a different perspective on the operation of nature's flexible propulsors, which we consider in this Commentary. First, we discuss how comparative animal mechanics have demonstrated that natural propulsors constructed with very different material properties bend with remarkably similar kinematic patterns. This suggests that ordering principles beyond basic material properties govern natural propulsor bending. Second, we consider advances in hydrodynamic measurements demonstrating suction forces that dramatically enhance overall thrust produced by natural bending patterns. This is a previously unrecognized source of thrust production at bending surfaces that may dominate total thrust production. Together, these advances provide a new mechanistic perspective on bending by animal propulsors operating in fluids - either water or air. This shift in perspective offers new opportunities for understanding animal motion as well as new avenues for investigation into engineered designs of vehicles operating in fluids.}, }
@article {pmid37305510, year = {2023}, author = {Angiolillo, A and Leccese, D and Ciccotelli, S and Di Cesare, G and D'Elia, K and Aurisano, N and Matrone, C and Dentizzi, C and Di Costanzo, A}, title = {Effects of Nordic walking in Alzheimer's disease: A single-blind randomized controlled clinical trial.}, journal = {Heliyon}, volume = {9}, number = {5}, pages = {e15865}, pmid = {37305510}, issn = {2405-8440}, abstract = {Non-pharmacological approaches, including exercise programs, have been proposed to improve cognitive function and behavioral symptoms, such as depression, agitation, or aggression, in the management of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Indeed, physical inactivity is one of the main modifiable risk factors in patients with AD, as well as in the development of cardiovascular diseases and related pathologies. Although Nordic Walking (NW), a particular type of aerobic exercise, is known to benefit the health of aging populations, there is little evidence that patients with AD may benefit from this non-pharmacological treatment. In this context, we performed a pilot study in 30 patients with mild/moderate AD to evaluate whether NW influences different cognitive domains, including executive functions, visual-spatial abilities, and verbal episodic memory. To this aim, 15 patients (Control group, CG) underwent reality orientation therapy, music therapy, motor, proprioceptive and postural rehabilitation, and 15 patients (experimental group, EG) in addition to the activities performed by the CG also had the NW with a frequency of twice a week. Neuropsychological assessments and evaluations of daily activities and quality of life were performed at baseline and after 24 weeks. Twenty-two patients, including 13 in the CG and nine in the EG completed the activity program after 24 weeks. The EG showed a significant improvement in the Frontal Assessment Battery, Rey's auditory Verbal Learning Test Delayed Recall, Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, and completion time for the Stroop Word-Color Interference test, compared to the CG. NW was able to improve cognitive domains like visual-spatial reasoning abilities, verbal episodic memory, selective attention, and processing speed in AD patients. These results, if confirmed by further studies with a larger number of patients and a longer training period, may prospect NW as a safe and likely useful strategy to slow down cognitive impairment in mild/moderate AD.}, }
@article {pmid37304324, year = {2023}, author = {Doumari, SA and Berahmand, K and Ebadi, MJ}, title = {Early and High-Accuracy Diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease: Outcomes of a New Model.}, journal = {Computational and mathematical methods in medicine}, volume = {2023}, number = {}, pages = {1493676}, pmid = {37304324}, issn = {1748-6718}, mesh = {Humans ; *Parkinson Disease/diagnosis ; Movement ; Algorithms ; Cluster Analysis ; Language ; }, abstract = {Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the significant common neurological disorders of the current age that causes uncontrollable movements like shaking, stiffness, and difficulty. The early clinical diagnosis of this disease is essential for preventing the progression of PD. Hence, an innovative method is proposed here based on combining the crow search algorithm and decision tree (CSADT) for the early PD diagnosis. This approach is used on four crucial Parkinson's datasets, including meander, spiral, voice, and speech-Sakar. Using the presented method, PD is effectively diagnosed by evaluating each dataset's critical features and extracting the primary practical outcomes. The used algorithm was compared with other machine learning algorithms of k-nearest neighbor (KNN), support vector machine (SVM), naive Baye (NB), multilayer perceptron (MLP), decision tree (DT), random tree, logistic regression, support vector machine of radial base functions (SVM of RBFs), and combined classifier in terms of accuracy, recall, and combination measure F1. The analytical results emphasize the used algorithm's superiority over the other selected ones. The proposed model yields nearly 100% accuracy through various trials on the datasets. Notably, a high detection speed achieved the lowest detection time of 2.6 seconds. The main novelty of this paper is attributed to the accuracy of the presented PD diagnosis method, which is much higher than its counterparts.}, }
@article {pmid37300600, year = {2023}, author = {Lu, C and Gudowska, A and Rutkowska, J}, title = {What do zebra finches learn besides singing? Systematic mapping of the literature and presentation of an efficient associative learning test.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {26}, number = {5}, pages = {1489-1503}, pmid = {37300600}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {2018/31/B/NZ8/02388//Narodowe Centrum Nauki/ ; N18/DBS/000003//Uniwersytet Jagiello&#x144;ski w Krakowie/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Finches ; Vocalization, Animal ; Chickens ; Learning ; Cognition ; }, abstract = {The process of learning in birds has been extensively studied, with a focus on species such as pigeons, parrots, chickens, and crows. In recent years, the zebra finch has emerged as a model species in avian cognition, particularly in song learning. However, other cognitive domains such as spatial memory and associative learning could also be critical to fitness and survival, particularly during the intensive juvenile period. In this systematic review, we provide an overview of cognitive studies on zebra finches, with a focus on domains other than song learning. Our findings indicate that spatial, associative, and social learning are the most frequently studied domains, while motoric learning and inhibitory control have been examined less frequently over 30 years of research. All of the 60 studies included in this review were conducted on captive birds, limiting the generalizability of the findings to wild populations. Moreover, only two of the studies were conducted on juveniles, highlighting the need for more research on this critical period of learning. To address this research gap, we propose a high-throughput method for testing associative learning performance in a large number of both juvenile and adult zebra finches. Our results demonstrate that learning can occur in both age groups, thus encouraging researchers to also perform cognitive tests on juveniles. We also note the heterogeneity of methodologies, protocols, and subject exclusion criteria applied by different researchers, which makes it difficult to compare results across studies. Therefore, we call for better communication among researchers to develop standardised methodologies for studying each cognitive domain at different life stages and also in their natural conditions.}, }
@article {pmid37277931, year = {2023}, author = {Townsend, AK and Jones, ML and Chen, N and Chivily, C and McAndrews, C and Clark, AB and McGowan, KJ and Eimes, J}, title = {Increased genetic diversity and immigration after West Nile virus emergence in American crows: No evidence for a genetic bottleneck.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {32}, number = {15}, pages = {4199-4208}, doi = {10.1111/mec.17037}, pmid = {37277931}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bird Diseases ; *Crows/genetics ; Emigration and Immigration ; Genetic Variation ; *West Nile Fever/genetics/veterinary/epidemiology ; *West Nile virus/genetics ; }, abstract = {Infectious diseases can cause steep declines in wildlife populations, leading to changes in genetic diversity that may affect the susceptibility of individuals to infection and the overall resilience of populations to pathogen outbreaks. Here, we examine evidence for a genetic bottleneck in a population of American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) before and after the emergence of West Nile virus (WNV). More than 50% of marked birds in this population were lost over the 2-year period of the epizootic, representing a 10-fold increase in adult mortality. Using analyses of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and microsatellite markers, we tested for evidence of a genetic bottleneck and compared levels of inbreeding and immigration in the pre- and post-WNV populations. Counter to expectations, genetic diversity (allelic diversity and the number of new alleles) increased after WNV emergence. This was likely due to increases in immigration, as the estimated membership coefficients were lower in the post-WNV population. Simultaneously, however, the frequency of inbreeding appeared to increase: Mean inbreeding coefficients were higher among SNP markers, and heterozygosity-heterozygosity correlations were stronger among microsatellite markers, in the post-WNV population. These results indicate that loss of genetic diversity at the population level is not an inevitable consequence of a population decline, particularly in the presence of gene flow. The changes observed in post-WNV crows could have very different implications for their response to future pathogen risks, potentially making the population as a whole more resilient to a changing pathogen community, while increasing the frequency of inbred individuals with elevated susceptibility to disease.}, }
@article {pmid37275954, year = {2023}, author = {Meli, AM and Zakaria, NH and Mohd Yusof, H and Kamarudin, KS and Ali, A}, title = {Risk assessment of low cognitive performance among fishermen's children in Malaysia.}, journal = {Journal of Taibah University Medical Sciences}, volume = {18}, number = {6}, pages = {1273-1284}, pmid = {37275954}, issn = {1658-3612}, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Low cognitive performance is a major concern among fishermen's children in Malaysia. Thus, this study was aimed at assessing dietary intake, nutritional status, physical activity, and socio-economic status, and their associations with cognitive performance among fishermen's children in Terengganu, Malaysia. We also investigated the risk associated with low cognitive performance.<br><br>METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 94 children 7-11 years of age in Terengganu. Dietary adequacy was assessed with two 24-h dietary recall surveys. Anthropometric measurements were assessed by calculation of the body mass index (BMI)-for-age Z-score and height-for-age Z-score. In addition, median urinary iodine tests were conducted to determine iodine concentrations. Physical activity was measured with the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C). Raven's coloured progressive matrices were used to determine cognitive performance. Binominal logistic regressions were performed on factors associated with cognitive performance, to identify the risk factors with the strongest association with cognitive performance.<br><br>RESULTS: The children of fishermen had adequate intake of all necessary nutrients except for fat, dietary fibre, thiamine, folate, vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, zinc, and potassium. Most of the children had normal BMI-for-age [median&#xa0;=&#xa0;-0.86 (2.11)] and height-for-age (mean&#xa0;=&#xa0;-1.01&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;1.03). However, more than half had iodine deficiency [median&#xa0;=&#xa0;83.9 (102)]. In addition, 16% had low physical activity levels, and their cognitive performance was classified with a low average score [median&#xa0;=&#xa0;80.0 (21.0)]. The mother's education level (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.037), children's BMI-for-age (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.012), protein (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.020), and niacin (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.032), exhibited significant relationships with cognitive performance (p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05). Of these variables, BMI-for-age (OR&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.290, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.036) and fourth quartile protein intake (&#x2265;52.69&#xa0;g) (OR&#xa0;=&#xa0;7.565, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.015) were significant risk factors for low cognitive performance among fishermen's children in Terengganu.<br><br>CONCLUSION: A balanced diet and healthy lifestyle are crucial for children's cognitive development. Thus, interventions emphasising the promotion of healthy lifestyles, particularly focusing on BMI-for-age and protein intake, are advised.}, }
@article {pmid37271616, year = {2023}, author = {Shirtcliff, EA}, title = {Editorial: Psychoneuroendocrinology honors the legacy of Jay Schulkin.}, journal = {Psychoneuroendocrinology}, volume = {154}, number = {}, pages = {106306}, doi = {10.1016/j.psyneuen.2023.106306}, pmid = {37271616}, issn = {1873-3360}, }
@article {pmid37267264, year = {2023}, author = {Young, AC and Katzner, TE and Shinneman, DJ and Johnson, TN}, title = {Implications of tree expansion in shrubland ecosystems for two generalist avian predators.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {18}, number = {6}, pages = {e0286478}, pmid = {37267264}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Ecosystem ; *Galliformes/physiology ; Animals, Wild ; North America ; Quail ; *Tracheophyta ; *Artemisia ; *Juniperus ; }, abstract = {Shrublands globally have undergone structural changes due to plant invasions, including the expansion of native trees. Removal of native conifer trees, especially juniper (Juniperus spp.), is occurring across the Great Basin of the western U.S. to support declining sagebrush (Artemisia spp.) habitats and associated wildlife species, such as greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus). One justification for conifer removal is that it may improve survival of sagebrush-associated wildlife by reducing the abundance of avian predators. However, the relationship between conifer expansion and predator distributions has not been explicitly evaluated. Further, although structural characteristics of habitat are important for generalist predators, overall prey abundance may also affect habitat use by predators. We examined habitat use of common ravens (Corvus corax) and red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis), two generalist predators whose populations are increasing in western North America, to variation in structural characteristics and prey distributions in sagebrush habitat that has experienced conifer expansion. Structural characteristics of habitat were important predictors of habitat use for both ravens and red-tailed hawks, whereas measures of prey abundance were unimportant for both species likely because generalist predators can use a wide variety of food resources. Ravens, but not red-tailed hawks, responded positively to increasing cover of juniper and the probability of habitat use was highest (> 0.95) where juniper cover within 100 m was > 20%. Habitat use by red-tailed hawks, but not ravens, was greater near cliffs but was not associated with juniper cover. Our study suggests that the removal of conifer in similar environments may lower the probability of habitat use for ravens, a common predator with significant impacts on many prey species. Therefore, we suggest conifer removal may improve sage-grouse reproductive success and survival depending on responses to conifer removal from other predators. Our results may be reflective of similar changes in rangeland ecosystems around the world undergoing expansion of conifer and other woody vegetation. Though species identities differ from sagebrush habitats, generalist avian predators in other habitats may have similar relationships with structural resources.}, }
@article {pmid37264787, year = {2023}, author = {de Winter, JCF and Dodou, D and Eisma, YB}, title = {Responses to Raven matrices: Governed by visual complexity and centrality.}, journal = {Perception}, volume = {52}, number = {9}, pages = {645-661}, pmid = {37264787}, issn = {1468-4233}, mesh = {Humans ; *Cognition ; Reaction Time ; Intelligence Tests ; }, abstract = {Raven matrices are widely considered a pure test of cognitive abilities. Previous research has examined the extent to which cognitive strategies are predictive of the number of correct responses to Raven items. This study examined whether response times can be explained directly from the centrality and visual complexity of the matrix cells (edge density and perceived complexity). A total of 159 participants completed a 12-item version of the Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices. In addition to item number (an index of item difficulty), the findings demonstrated a positive correlation between the visual complexity of Raven items and both the mean response time and the number of fixations on the matrix (a strong correlate of response time). Moreover, more centrally placed cells as well as more complex cells received more fixations. It is concluded that response times on Raven matrices are impacted by low-level stimulus attributes, namely, visual complexity and eccentricity.}, }
@article {pmid37264742, year = {2023}, author = {Cohen, G and Jakus, J and Portillo, M and Gvirtz, R and Ogen-Shtern, N and Silberstein, E and Ayzenberg, T and Rozenblat, S}, title = {In vitro, ex vivo, and clinical evaluation of anti-aging gel containing EPA and CBD.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {22}, number = {11}, pages = {3047-3057}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.15815}, pmid = {37264742}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//ECO Pharmaceutics/ ; //Ministry of Science and Technology/ ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Skin aging manifestation, such as coarse wrinkles, loss of elasticity, pigmentation, and rough-textured appearance, is a multifactorial process that can be exacerbated by air pollution, smoking, poor nutrition, and sun exposure. Exposure to UV radiation is considered the primary cause of extrinsic skin aging and accounts for about 80% of facial aging. Extrinsic skin aging signs can be reduced with demo-cosmetic formulations. Both cannabidiol (CBD) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) have been previously suggested as potent active dermatological ingredients.<br><br>AIMS: The objective of the current research was to evaluate the compatibility of both agents in the prevention and treatment of skin aging. First, the impact of both agents was assessed using standard photoaging models of UV-induced damage, both in vitro (HaCaT cells) and ex vivo (human skin organ culture). Then, a clinical validation study (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;33) was performed using an optimized topical cream formulation tested at different time points (up to Day 56).<br><br>RESULTS: EPA was found to potentiate the protective effects of CBD by reducing the secretion of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and interleukin-8 (IL-8), two primary inflammatory agents associated with photoaging. In addition, a qualitative histological examination signaled that applying the cream may result in an increase in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling following UV radiation. This was also evidenced clinically by a reduction of crow's feet wrinkle area and volume, as well as a reduction of fine line wrinkle volume as measured by the AEVA system. The well-established age-dependent subepidermal low-echogenic band (SLEB) was also reduced by 8.8%. Additional clinical results showed significantly reduced red spots area and count, and an increase in skin hydration and elasticity by 31.2% and 25.6% following 56&#x2009;days of cream application, respectively. These impressive clinical results correlated with high satisfaction ratings by the study participants.<br><br>DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: Collectively, the results show a profound anti-aging impact of the developed formulation and strengthen the beneficial derm-cosmetic properties of CBD-based products.}, }
@article {pmid39175800, year = {2023}, author = {Suvorov, V and SaAkian, DB and Lynch, M}, title = {A solution of the Crow-Kimura evolution model on fluctuating fitness landscape.}, journal = {Europhysics letters}, volume = {142}, number = {5}, pages = {}, pmid = {39175800}, issn = {0295-5075}, support = {R35 GM122566/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {The article discusses the Crow-Kimura model in the context of random transitions between different fitness landscapes. The duration of epochs, during which the fitness landscape is constant over time, is modeled by an exponential distribution. To obtain an exact solution, a system of functional equations is required. However, to approximate the model, we consider the cases of slow or fast transitions and calculate the first-order corrections using either the transition rate or its inverse. Specifically, we focus on the case of slow transitions and find that the average fitness is equal to the average fitness for evolution on static fitness landscapes, but with the addition of a load term. We also investigate the model for a small number of genes and identify the exact transition points to the transient phase.}, }
@article {pmid37261488, year = {2024}, author = {Apostel, A and Hahn, LA and Rose, J}, title = {Jackdaws form categorical prototypes based on experience with category exemplars.}, journal = {Brain structure &amp; function}, volume = {229}, number = {3}, pages = {593-608}, pmid = {37261488}, issn = {1863-2661}, support = {SFB 874/B13, project number: 122679504//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Learning ; Cognition ; Brain ; }, abstract = {Categorization represents one cognitive ability fundamental to animal behavior. Grouping of elements based on perceptual or semantic features helps to reduce processing resources and facilitates appropriate behavior. Corvids master complex categorization, yet the detailed categorization learning strategies are less well understood. We trained two jackdaws on a delayed match to category paradigm using a novel, artificial stimulus type, RUBubbles. Both birds learned to differentiate between two session-unique categories following two distinct learning protocols. Categories were either introduced via central category prototypes (low variability approach) or using a subset of diverse category exemplars from which diagnostic features had to be identified (high variability approach). In both versions, the stimulus similarity relative to a central category prototype explained categorization performance best. Jackdaws consistently used a central prototype to judge category membership, regardless of whether this prototype was used to introduce distinct categories or had to be inferred from multiple exemplars. Reliance on a category prototype occurred already after experiencing only a few trials with different category exemplars. High stimulus set variability prolonged initial learning but showed no consistent beneficial effect on later generalization performance. High numbers of stimuli, their perceptual similarity, and coherent category structure resulted in a prototype-based strategy, reflecting the most adaptive, efficient, and parsimonious way to represent RUBubble categories. Thus, our birds represent a valuable comparative animal model that permits further study of category representations throughout learning in different regions of a brain producing highly cognitive behavior.}, }
@article {pmid37257484, year = {2023}, author = {Memisevic, H and Dedic, A and Malec, D}, title = {The Relative Strengths of Relationships Between Fine Motor Skills, Working Memory, Processing Speed and Fluid Intelligence in Early Elementary School Children.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {130}, number = {4}, pages = {1386-1399}, doi = {10.1177/00315125231181297}, pmid = {37257484}, issn = {1558-688X}, mesh = {Male ; Female ; Humans ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Memory, Short-Term ; *Processing Speed ; Motor Skills ; Cognition ; Intelligence ; }, abstract = {The goal in the present paper was to examine the combined and relative impact of fine motor ability, auditory working memory, and processing speed on fluid intelligence in a sample of early elementary school students. Our participant sample was 145 children (Mage = 9.1 years, SD = 1.1; 80 boys, 65 girls). We used the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices Test as a measure of fluid intelligence and five other measures to represent the three predictor variables: the Grooved Pegboard Test as a measure of fine motor skills, Digit Span Forwards and Digit Span Backwards tests as measures of working memory, and Rapid Automatized Naming and Letter-Digit Substitution tasks as measures of processing speed. Regression analyses indicated that only two of these measures had a statistically significant association with the fluid intelligence test scores, namely, scores on the Grooved Pegboard (fine motor skills) and Digit Span Backwards (working memory) tests, with these two measures explaining 35% of the variance in the fluid intelligence test scores. Thus, fine motor skills and working memory were correlated with fluid intelligence in early elementary-grade students. Until the directions of these relationships are better understood, we might assume that interventions aiming to increase young children's fluid intelligence, or at least their intelligence scores, might partly target working memory and fine motor skills.}, }
@article {pmid37256500, year = {2023}, author = {Jensen, TR and Zeiträg, C and Osvath, M}, title = {The selfish preen: absence of allopreening in Palaeognathae and its socio-cognitive implications.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {26}, number = {5}, pages = {1467-1476}, pmid = {37256500}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {2019-03265//Vetenskapsr&#xe5;det/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Palaeognathae ; Social Behavior ; Cognition ; }, abstract = {Preening behaviours are widespread in extant birds. While most birds appear to autopreen (self-directed preening), allopreening (preening directed at conspecifics) seems to have emerged only in certain species, but across many families. Allopreening has been hypothesised to reinforce mutual relationships and cooperation between individuals, and to underpin various socio-cognitive abilities. Palaeognathae is a bird group exhibiting neurocognitively plesiomorphic traits compared to other birds. They share many features with non-avian paravian dinosaurs and are thus important for the study of cognitive evolution in birds. Despite this, and the important correlation of allopreening with many complicated social behaviours, allopreening has not been systematically studied in Palaeognathae. Therefore, we examined the preening behaviours in four species of palaeognaths: common ostriches (Struthio camelus), greater rheas (Rhea americana), emus (Dromaius novaehollandiae), and elegant crested tinamous (Eudromia elegans). We compared findings with common ravens (Corvus corax), a neognath species known for its allopreening and complex social cognition. We found autopreening, but no allopreening, in the palaeognath species, while both autopreening and allopreening was found in common ravens. The absence of allopreening in Palaeognathae suggests an emergence of this behaviour within Neognathae. We contextualise our results in relation to the socio-cognitive underpinnings of allopreening and its implications for the understanding of the evolution of socio-cognitive abilities in non-avian paravian dinosaurs and early birds.}, }
@article {pmid37248481, year = {2023}, author = {Rachel, M and Jia, H and Amina, A and Perez-Garcia, M and Kumar, M and Wicherts, JM}, title = {Psychometric evaluation of the computerized battery for neuropsychological evaluation of children (BENCI) among school aged children in the context of HIV in an urban Kenyan setting.}, journal = {BMC psychiatry}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {373}, pmid = {37248481}, issn = {1471-244X}, support = {U54 TW012089/TW/FIC NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Child ; Kenya ; *HIV Infections/complications/diagnosis/psychology ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; Case-Control Studies ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Culturally validated neurocognitive measures for children in Low- and Middle-Income Countries are important in the timely and correct identification of neurocognitive impairments. Such measures can inform development of interventions for children exposed to additional vulnerabilities like HIV infection. The Battery for Neuropsychological Evaluation of Children (BENCI) is an openly available, computerized neuropsychological battery specifically developed to evaluate neurocognitive impairment. This study adapted the BENCI and evaluated its reliability and validity in Kenya.<br><br>METHODOLOGY: The BENCI was adapted using translation and back-translation from Spanish to English. The psychometric properties were evaluated in a case-control study of 328 children (aged 6 - 14&#xa0;years) living with HIV and 260 children not living with HIV in Kenya. We assessed reliability, factor structure, and measurement invariance with respect to HIV. Additionally, we examined convergent validity of the BENCI using tests from the Kilifi Toolkit.<br><br>RESULTS: Internal consistencies (0.49&#x2009;<&#x2009;&#x3b1;&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.97) and test-retest reliabilities (-.34 to .81) were sufficient-to-good for most of the subtests. Convergent validity was supported by significant correlations between the BENCI's Verbal memory and Kilifi's Verbal List Learning (r&#x2009;=&#x2009;.41), the BENCI's Visual memory and Kilifi's Verbal List Learning (r&#x2009;=&#x2009;.32) and the BENCI's Planning total time test and Kilifi's Tower Test (r&#x2009;=&#x2009;-.21) and the BENCI's Abstract Reasoning test and Kilifi's Raven's Progressive Matrix (r&#x2009;=&#x2009;.21). The BENCI subtests highlighted meaningful differences between children living with HIV and those not living with HIV. After some minor adaptions, a confirmatory four-factor model consisting of flexibility, fluency, reasoning and working memory fitted well (&#x3c7;[2]&#x2009;=&#x2009;135.57, DF&#x2009;=&#x2009;51, N&#x2009;=&#x2009;604, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;.001, RMSEA&#x2009;=&#x2009;.052, CFI&#x2009;=&#x2009;.944, TLI&#x2009;=&#x2009;.914) and was partially scalar invariant between HIV positive and negative groups.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The English version of the BENCI formally translated for use in Kenya can be further adapted and integrated in clinical and research settings as a valid and reliable cognitive test battery.}, }
@article {pmid37244534, year = {2023}, author = {Herring, G and Eagles-Smith, CA and Buck, JA}, title = {Anticoagulant rodenticides are associated with increased stress and reduced body condition of avian scavengers in the Pacific Northwest.}, journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)}, volume = {331}, number = {Pt 2}, pages = {121899}, doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121899}, pmid = {37244534}, issn = {1873-6424}, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Anticoagulants/metabolism ; *Rodenticides/toxicity/metabolism ; Birds/metabolism ; *Raptors/metabolism ; *Falconiformes/metabolism ; Northwestern United States ; Fishes/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Anticoagulant rodenticides (AR) have been used globally to manage commensal rodents for decades. However their application has also resulted in primary, secondary, and tertiary poisoning in wildlife. Widespread exposure to ARs (primarily second generation ARs; SGARs) in raptors and avian scavengers has triggered considerable conservation concern over their potential effects on populations. To identify risk to extant raptor and avian scavenger populations in Oregon and potential future risk to the California condor (Gymnogyps californianus) flock recently established in northern California, we assessed AR exposure and physiological responses in two avian scavenger species (common ravens [Corvus corax] and turkey vultures [Cathartes aura]) throughout Oregon between 2013 and 2019. AR exposure was widespread with 51% (35/68) of common ravens and 86% (63/73) of turkey vultures containing AR residues. The more acutely toxic SGAR brodifacoum was present in 83% and 90% of AR exposed common ravens and turkey vultures. The odds of AR exposure in common ravens were 4.7-fold higher along the coastal region compared to interior Oregon. For common ravens and turkey vultures that were exposed to ARs, respectively, 54% and 56% had concentrations that exceeded the 5% probability of toxicosis (>20 ng/g ww; Thomas et al., 2011), and 20% and 5% exceeded the 20% probability of toxicosis (>80 ng/g ww; Thomas et al., 2011). Common ravens exhibited a physiological response to AR exposure with fecal corticosterone metabolites increasing with sum ARs (ΣAR) concentrations. Both female common raven and turkey vultures' body condition was negatively correlated with increasing ΣAR concentrations. Our results suggest avian scavengers in Oregon are experiencing extensive AR exposure and the newly established population of California condors in northern California may experience similar AR exposure if they feed in southern Oregon. Understanding the sources of ARs across the landscape is an important first step in reducing or eliminating AR exposure in avian scavengers.}, }
@article {pmid37242196, year = {2023}, author = {McKinley, M and Rowland, N and Leshem, M}, title = {The Hunger for Salt: A Tribute to Derek Denton and Jay Schulkin with an Updated Collection of Papers on Salt Appetite.}, journal = {Nutrients}, volume = {15}, number = {10}, pages = {}, pmid = {37242196}, issn = {2072-6643}, mesh = {*Appetite ; Energy Intake ; *Hunger ; Sodium Chloride ; Sodium Chloride, Dietary ; }, abstract = {This collection of outstanding papers is a trove for all concerned with salt intake [...].}, }
@article {pmid37229706, year = {2023}, author = {Waples, RS and Reed, TE}, title = {Null Models for the Opportunity for Selection.}, journal = {The American naturalist}, volume = {201}, number = {6}, pages = {779-793}, doi = {10.1086/723889}, pmid = {37229706}, issn = {1537-5323}, mesh = {Humans ; *Selection, Genetic ; *Reproduction ; Fertility ; Biological Evolution ; Phenotype ; }, abstract = {AbstractCrow's "opportunity for selection" (I=variance in relative fitness) is an important albeit controversial eco-evolutionary concept, particularly regarding the most appropriate null model(s). Here, we treat this topic in a comprehensive way by considering opportunities for both fertility selection (If) and viability selection (Im) for discrete generations, both seasonal and lifetime reproductive success in age-structured species, and experimental designs that include either a full or partial life cycle, with complete enumeration or random subsampling. For each scenario, a null model that includes random demographic stochasticity can be constructed that follows Crow's initial formulation that I=If+Im. The two components of I are qualitatively different. Whereas an adjusted If (ΔIf) can be computed that accounts for random demographic stochasticity in offspring number, Im cannot be similarly adjusted in the absence of data on phenotypic traits under viability selection. Including as potential parents some individuals that die before reproductive age produces an overall zero-inflated Poisson null model. It is always important to remember that (1) Crow's I represents only the opportunity for selection and not selection itself and (2) the species' biology can lead to random stochasticity in offspring number that is either overdispersed or underdispersed compared with the Poisson (Wright-Fisher) expectation.}, }
@article {pmid37228696, year = {2023}, author = {Han, Y and Xiang, H and Cao, J and Yang, X and Pan, N and Huang, L}, title = {Study on optimization of multi-UAV nucleic acid sample delivery paths in large cities under the influence of epidemic environment.}, journal = {Journal of ambient intelligence and humanized computing}, volume = {14}, number = {6}, pages = {7593-7620}, pmid = {37228696}, issn = {1868-5137}, abstract = {In the context of global novel coronavirus infection, we studied the distribution problem of nucleic acid samples, which are medical supplies with high urgency. A multi-UAV delivery model of nucleic acid samples with time windows and a UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) dynamics model for multiple distribution centers is established by considering UAVs' impact cost and trajectory cost. The Golden Eagle optimization algorithm (SGDCV-GEO) based on gradient optimization and Corsi variation is proposed to solve the model by introducing gradient optimization and Corsi variation strategy in the Golden Eagle optimization algorithm. Performance evaluation by optimizing test functions, Friedman and Nemenyi test compared with Golden Jackal Optimization (GJO), Hunter-Prey Optimization (HPO), Pelican Optimization Algorithm (POA), Reptile Search Algorithm (RSA) and Golden Eagle Optimization (GEO), the convergence performance of SGDCV-GEO algorithm was demonstrated. Further, the improved RRT (Rapidly-exploring Random Trees) algorithm is used in the UAV path planning, and the pruning process and logistic chaotic mapping strategy are introduced in the path generation method. Finally, simulation experiments are conducted based on 8 hospitals and 50 randomly selected communities in the Pudong district of Shanghai, southern China. The experimental results show that the developed algorithm can effectively reduce the delivery cost and total delivery time compared with simulated annealing algorithm (SA), crow search algorithm (CSA), particle swarm algorithm (PSO), and taboo search algorithm (TS), and the developed algorithm has good uniformity, robustness, and high convergence accuracy, which can be effectively applied to the multi-UAV nucleic acid sample delivery path optimization in large cities under the influence of an epidemic environment.}, }
@article {pmid37224062, year = {2023}, author = {Johnson, J and Soehnlen, M and Blankenship, HM}, title = {Long read genome assemblers struggle with small plasmids.}, journal = {Microbial genomics}, volume = {9}, number = {5}, pages = {}, pmid = {37224062}, issn = {2057-5858}, support = {U01 CK000510/CK/NCEZID CDC HHS/United States ; U01CK000510/ACL/ACL HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Plasmids/genetics ; *Genome, Bacterial ; *Nanopores ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; }, abstract = {Whole-genome sequencing has become a preferred method for studying bacterial plasmids, as it is generally assumed to capture the entire genome. However, long-read genome assemblers have been shown to sometimes miss plasmid sequences - an issue that has been associated with plasmid size. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between plasmid size and plasmid recovery by the long-read-only assemblers, Flye, Raven, Miniasm, and Canu. This was accomplished by determining the number of times each assembler successfully recovered 33 plasmids, ranging from 1919 to 194 062 bp in size and belonging to 14 bacterial isolates from six bacterial genera, using Oxford Nanopore long reads. These results were additionally compared to plasmid recovery rates by the short-read-first assembler, Unicycler, using both Oxford Nanopore long reads and Illumina short reads. Results from this study indicate that Canu, Flye, Miniasm, and Raven are prone to missing plasmid sequences, whereas Unicycler was successful at recovering 100 % of plasmid sequences. Excluding Canu, most plasmid loss by long-read-only assemblers was due to failure to recover plasmids smaller than 10 kb. As such, it is recommended that Unicycler be used to increase the likelihood of plasmid recovery during bacterial genome assembly.}, }
@article {pmid37221422, year = {2023}, author = {Majji, R and G, OPP and Rajeswari, R and R, C}, title = {Smart IoT in Breast Cancer Detection Using Optimal Deep Learning.}, journal = {Journal of digital imaging}, volume = {36}, number = {4}, pages = {1489-1506}, pmid = {37221422}, issn = {1618-727X}, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Breast Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging ; *Deep Learning ; *Internet of Things ; Algorithms ; Breast ; }, abstract = {IoT in healthcare systems is currently a viable option for providing higher-quality medical care for contemporary e-healthcare. Using an Internet of Things (IoT)-based smart healthcare system, a trustworthy breast cancer classification method called Feedback Artificial Crow Search (FACS)-based Shepherd Convolutional Neural Network (ShCNN) is developed in this research. To choose the best routes, the secure routing operation is first carried out using the recommended FACS while taking fitness measures such as distance, energy, link quality, and latency into account. Then, by merging the Crow Search Algorithm (CSA) and Feedback Artificial Tree, the produced FACS is put into practice (FAT). After the completion of routing phase, the breast cancer categorization process is started at the base station. The feature extraction step is then introduced to the pre-processed input mammography image. As a result, it is possible to successfully get features including area, mean, variance, energy, contrast, correlation, skewness, homogeneity, Gray Level Co-occurrence Matrix (GLCM), and Local Gabor Binary Pattern (LGBP). The quality of the image is next enhanced through data augmentation, and finally, the developed FACS algorithm's ShCNN is used to classify breast cancer. The performance of FACS-based ShCNN is examined using six metrics, including energy, delay, accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and True Positive Rate (TPR), with the maximum energy of 0.562 J, the least delay of 0.452 s, the highest accuracy of 91.56%, the higher sensitivity of 96.10%, the highest specificity of 91.80%, and the maximum TPR of 99.45%.}, }
@article {pmid37221167, year = {2023}, author = {Brea, J and Clayton, NS and Gerstner, W}, title = {Computational models of episodic-like memory in food-caching birds.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {2979}, pmid = {37221167}, issn = {2041-1723}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Conditioning, Classical ; *Crows ; Food ; Computer Simulation ; }, abstract = {Birds of the crow family adapt food-caching strategies to anticipated needs at the time of cache recovery and rely on memory of the what, where and when of previous caching events to recover their hidden food. It is unclear if this behavior can be explained by simple associative learning or if it relies on higher cognitive processes like mental time-travel. We present a computational model and propose a neural implementation of food-caching behavior. The model has hunger variables for motivational control, reward-modulated update of retrieval and caching policies and an associative neural network for remembering caching events with a memory consolidation mechanism for flexible decoding of the age of a memory. Our methodology of formalizing experimental protocols is transferable to other domains and facilitates model evaluation and experiment design. Here, we show that memory-augmented, associative reinforcement learning without mental time-travel is sufficient to explain the results of 28 behavioral experiments with food-caching birds.}, }
@article {pmid37219737, year = {2023}, author = {Federspiel, IG and Schmitt, V and Schuster, R and Rockenbach, C and Braun, A and Loretto, MC and Michels, C and Fischer, J and Mussweiler, T and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Are you better than me? Social comparisons in carrion crows (Corvus corone).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {26}, number = {4}, pages = {1353-1368}, pmid = {37219737}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; Fi707/18-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; Y366-B17//FWF/ ; Mu 1500/5-1//Leibniz Price/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Crows ; Social Comparison ; Cues ; Biological Evolution ; Primates ; }, abstract = {Comparing oneself to others is a key process in humans that allows individuals to gauge their performances and abilities and thus develop and calibrate their self-image. Little is known about its evolutionary foundations. A key feature of social comparison is the sensitivity to other individuals' performance. Recent studies on primates produced equivocal results, leading us to distinguish between a 'strong' variant of the social comparison hypothesis formulated for humans and a 'weak' variant found in non-human primates that would comprise some elements of human social comparison. Here, we focus on corvids that are distantly related to primates and renowned for their socio-cognitive skills. We were interested in whether crows' task performances were influenced (i) by the presence of a conspecific co-actor performing the same discrimination task and (ii) by the simulated acoustic cues of a putative co-actor performing better or worse than themselves. Crows reached a learning criterion quicker when tested simultaneously as compared to when tested alone, indicating a facilitating effect of social context. The performance of a putative co-actor influenced their performance: crows were better at discriminating familiar images when their co-actor was better than they were. Standard extremity (how pronounced the difference was between the performance of the subject and that of the co-actor), and category membership (affiliation status and sex), of the putative co-actors had no effect on their performance. Our findings are in line with the 'weak' variant of social comparison and indicate that elements of human social comparison can be found outside of primates.}, }
@article {pmid37218772, year = {2023}, author = {Cao, L and Chen, H and Chen, Y and Yue, Y and Zhang, X}, title = {Bio-Inspired Swarm Intelligence Optimization Algorithm-Aided Hybrid TDOA/AOA-Based Localization.}, journal = {Biomimetics (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {8}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {37218772}, issn = {2313-7673}, support = {LY23F010002//Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province/ ; }, abstract = {A TDOA/AOA hybrid location algorithm based on the crow search algorithm optimized by particle swarm optimization is proposed to address the challenge of solving the nonlinear equation of time of arrival (TDOA/AOA) location in the non-line-of-sight (NLoS) environment. This algorithm keeps its optimization mechanism on the basis of enhancing the performance of the original algorithm. To obtain a better fitness value throughout the optimization process and increase the algorithm's optimization accuracy, the fitness function based on maximum likelihood estimation is modified. In order to speed up algorithm convergence and decrease needless global search without compromising population diversity, an initial solution is simultaneously added to the starting population location. Simulation findings demonstrate that the suggested method outperforms the TDOA/AOA algorithm and other comparable algorithms, including Taylor, Chan, PSO, CPSO, and basic CSA algorithms. The approach performs well in terms of robustness, convergence speed, and node positioning accuracy.}, }
@article {pmid37218453, year = {2023}, author = {Peña-Ruiz, LS and Unar-Munguía, M and Colchero, MA and Alarid-Escudero, F and Pérez-Escamilla, R}, title = {Breastfeeding is associated with the intelligence of school-age children in Mexico.}, journal = {Maternal &amp; child nutrition}, volume = {19}, number = {4}, pages = {e13534}, pmid = {37218453}, issn = {1740-8709}, support = {UL1 TR001863/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Female ; Child ; Humans ; Infant ; *Breast Feeding ; Mexico ; *Child Development ; Intelligence ; Milk, Human ; }, abstract = {Breastfeeding has been consistently associated with higher intelligence since childhood. However, this relation could be confounded due to maternal selection bias. We estimated the association between predominant breastfeeding and intelligence in school-age children considering potential selection bias and we simulated the intelligence gap reduction between low versus higher socioeconomic status children by increasing breastfeeding. We analysed predominant breastfeeding practices (breastmilk and water-based liquids) of children 0-3 years included in the Mexican Family Life Survey (MxFLS-1). Intelligence was estimated as the z-score of the abbreviated Raven score, measured at 6-12 years in the MxFLS-2 or MxFLS-3. We predicted breastfeeding duration among children with censored data with a Poisson model. We used the Heckman selection model to assess the association between breastfeeding and intelligence, correcting for selection bias and stratified by socioeconomic status. Results show after controlling for selection bias, a 1-month increase in predominant breastfeeding duration was associated with a 0.02 SD increase in the Raven z-score (p < 0.05). The children who were predominantly breastfed for 4-6 months versus <1 month had 0.16 SD higher Raven z-score (p < 0.05). No associations were found using multiple linear regression models. Among low socioeconomic status children, increasing predominantly breastfeeding duration to 6 months would increase their mean Raven z-score from -0.14 to -0.07 SD and reduce by 12.5% the intelligence gap with high socioeconomic status children. In conclusion, predominant breastfeeding duration was significantly associated with childhood intelligence after controlling for maternal selection bias. Increased breastfeeding duration may reduce poverty-driven intelligence inequities.}, }
@article {pmid37195395, year = {2023}, author = {Jiang, L and Liang, G and Li, Y and Liu, L and Zhang, L and Gu, H and Ge, L and Song, Z}, title = {Does microneedle fractional radiofrequency system inactivate botulinum toxin type A?.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {22}, number = {7}, pages = {2008-2017}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.15826}, pmid = {37195395}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; }, mesh = {Mice ; Female ; Animals ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; *Neuromuscular Agents ; *Skin Aging ; Needles ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The combination of botulinum toxin type A (BoNT/A) and energy equipment have been widely used in the clinic.<br><br>AIMS: To determine whether the energy of microneedle fractional radiofrequency (MFR) affects the efficacy of BoNT/A and to provide an optimal strategy for the energy device in combination with BoNT/A in the clinic.<br><br>METHODS: First, a total of 45 females with moderate-to-severe periorbital crow's feet wrinkles were enrolled and divided into three groups according to different treatment methods and intervals, including BoNT/A injection alone, BoNT/A injected immediately after MFR treatment and BoNT/A injected 7&#x2009;days after MFR treatment. The photographs were compared before treatment and 4&#x2009;weeks after treatment. Then, the mouse models were established by combining MFR with BoNT/A at different intervals, to evaluate muscle strength, muscle mass, muscle nutritional markers, and important cytokines levels.<br><br>RESULTS: All patients in each group had high satisfaction. The MFR&#x2009;+&#x2009;BoNT/A (immediately) group could improve dynamic wrinkles, but the others had more significant efficacy (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). The results of mouse models showed that all BoNT/A groups induced different degrees of muscle paralysis in vivo, but the paralytic effect induced by the BoNT/A group, MFR&#x2009;+&#x2009;BoNT/A (interval of 3-day) group, and MFR&#x2009;+&#x2009;BoNT/A (interval of 7-day) group were higher than others and the expression levels of muscle nutritional markers in NMJ tissues were significantly upregulated.<br><br>CONCLUSION: MFR has a certain reduction effect on the activity of BoNT/A, and this reduction effect would last for 3&#x2009;days after MFR treatment.}, }
@article {pmid37193990, year = {2023}, author = {Radovics, D and Szabolcs, M and Lengyel, S and Mizsei, E}, title = {Hide or die when the winds bring wings: predator avoidance by activity shift in a mountain snake.}, journal = {Frontiers in zoology}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {17}, pmid = {37193990}, issn = {1742-9994}, support = {NKFIH-OTKA K106133//Nemzeti Kutat&#xe1;si Fejleszt&#xe9;si &#xe9;s Innov&#xe1;ci&#xf3;s Hivatal/ ; GINOP2.3.3-15-2016-00019//Nemzeti Kutat&#xe1;si Fejleszt&#xe9;si &#xe9;s Innov&#xe1;ci&#xf3;s Hivatal/ ; &#xda;NKP-22-4-II-DE-201//Nemzeti Kutat&#xe1;si &#xe9;s Technol&#xf3;giai Hivatal/ ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Understanding predator-prey relationships is fundamental in many areas of ecology and conservation. In reptiles, basking time often increases the risk of predation and one way to minimise this risk is to reduce activity time and to stay within a refuge. However, this implies costs of lost opportunities for foraging, reproduction, and thermoregulation. We aimed to determine the main potential and observed predators of Vipera graeca, to infer predation pressure by estimating the incidence and the body length and sex distribution of predation events based on body injuries, and to assess whether and how the activity of V. graeca individuals is modified by predation pressure.<br><br>RESULTS: We observed n&#x2009;=&#x2009;12 raptor bird species foraging at the study sites, of which Circaetus gallicus, Falco tinnunculus and Corvus cornix were directly observed as predators of V. graeca. We found injuries and wounds on 12.5% of the studied individuals (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;319). The occurrence of injuries was significantly positively influenced by the body length of vipers, and was more frequent on females than on males, while the interaction of length and sex showed a significant negative effect. The temporal overlap between predator and viper activity was much greater for the vipers' potential activity than their realised activity. Vipers showed a temporal shift in their bimodal daily activity pattern as they were active earlier in the morning and later in the afternoon than could be expected based on the thermal conditions.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The time spent being active on the surface has costs to snakes: predation-related injuries increased in frequency with length, were more frequent in females than in males and occurred in shorter length for males than for females. Our results suggest that vipers do not fully exploit the thermally optimal time window available to them, likely because they shift their activity to periods with fewer avian predators.}, }
@article {pmid37191910, year = {2023}, author = {Yu, F and Wang, X and Zhao, Y and Li, Z}, title = {Influence of age, breeding state and approach direction on sensitivity to human gaze: a field study on Azure-winged magpies.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {26}, number = {4}, pages = {1369-1379}, pmid = {37191910}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {41871294//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2022YFC3202104//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; BK20211151//Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Passeriformes ; Cognition ; Predatory Behavior ; Breeding ; Fixation, Ocular ; }, abstract = {In predator-prey interactions, various factors affect the prey's perception of risk and decision to flee. Gaze sensitivity, the ability to react to the presence, direction, or movement of the head and eyes, has been reported in many birds. However, few studies have focussed on variation in sensitivity to human gaze in relation to other risks and potential breeding costs. Here, we studied the influence of human gaze on the escape behaviour of Azure-winged magpies (Cyanopica cyanus) and investigated the effects of breeding state (breeding season and nonbreeding season) and approach direction on gaze sensitivity. In Experiment 1, we tested whether magpies showed different sensitivities to human gaze according to age class and breeding state when approached directly. The results showed that the breeding state could affect the flight initiation distance (FID), with adults in the breeding season having a shorter FID compared to those in the nonbreeding season. Meanwhile, only adults were found to be averse to direct human gaze and juveniles showed no sensitivity. In Experiment 2, we conducted three different gaze treatments on adult magpies in the breeding season under three bypass distances (0 m, 2.5 m, 5 m). The results showed that approach direction had no effect on FID, while the sensitivity to human gaze differed under three bypass distances. Adults could clearly recognise human head and eye direction at a certain bypass distance (2.5 m). Our study reveals the cognitive ability of Azure-winged magpies to human head and eye direction and the effects of age, breeding state and approach direction, which may provide further insights into human-wildlife interactions, especially for birds in urban habitats.}, }
@article {pmid37187933, year = {2023}, author = {Hyeon, JY and Helal, ZH and Appel, A and Tocco, N and Hunt, A and Lee, DH and Risatti, GR}, title = {Whole genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of West Nile viruses from animals in New England, United States, 2021.}, journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {1085554}, pmid = {37187933}, issn = {2297-1769}, support = {U18 FD006182/FD/FDA HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne Flavivirus which is the leading cause of global arboviral encephalitis. We sequenced WNVs from an American crow found in Connecticut and an alpaca found in Massachusetts which were submitted to the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (CVMDL). We report here the complete protein-coding sequences (CDS) of the WNVs (WNV 21-3957/USA CT/Crow/2021 and WNV 21-3782/USA MA/Alpaca/2021) and their phylogenetic relationship with other WNVs recovered from across the United States. In the phylogenetic analysis, the WNVs from this study belonged to the WNV lineage 1. The WNV 21-3957/USA CT/Crow/2021 clustered with WNVs from a mosquito and birds in New York during 2007-2013. Interestingly, the virus detected in the alpaca, WNV 21-3782/USA MA/Alpaca/2021 clustered with WNVs from mosquitos in New York, Texas, and Arizona during 2012-2016. The genetic differences between the viruses detected during the same season in an American crow and an alpaca suggest that vector-host feeding preferences are most likely driving viral transmission. The CDS of the WNVs and their phylogenetic relationships with other WNVs established in this study would be useful as reference data for future investigations on WNVs. Seasonal surveillance of WNV in birds and mammals and the genetic characterization of detected viruses are necessary to monitor patterns of disease presentations and viral evolution within a geographical area.}, }
@article {pmid37181207, year = {2023}, author = {Wan, G and Zhao, H and Liu, X and Wang, L and Liang, W}, title = {Predation of Daurian redstarts offspring in nest boxes by the Oriental magpie-robin and tree sparrow.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {e10093}, pmid = {37181207}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Birds select suitable nest sites for breeding to ensure their own and offspring's survival; however, they inevitably suffer some potential predation risk. We studied the breeding ecology of Daurian redstarts (Phoenicurus auroreus) by providing nest boxes for their breeding from March to August of 2022. We recorded the predation of both Daurian redstarts eggs or nestlings by Oriental magpie-robins (Copsychus saularis) and tree sparrow (Passer montanus). Oriental magpie-robin were recorded attacking a feeding female adult and depredating nestlings. After the nestling predation event, the Daurian redstarts abandoned the nest. This video evidence provide a better understanding of the potential predators of cavity-nesting birds.}, }
@article {pmid37181205, year = {2023}, author = {Hamal, S and Sharma, HP and Gautam, R and Katuwal, HB}, title = {Drivers of power line collisions and electrocutions of birds in Nepal.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {e10080}, pmid = {37181205}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Among the several anthropogenic factors, power lines are increasingly regarded as one of the most significant hazards to bird species, primarily owing to collisions and electrocutions. Nepal has comparatively fewer studies on the impact of power line collisions and electrocution on birds compared with developed nations. From November 2021 to May 2022, we assessed the effect of power line collisions and electrocutions on the mortality of birds in the Putalibazar Municipality of the Syangja district of Nepal. We established 117 circular plots in diverse habitats, including agricultural lands, forests, settlements, and river basins, along a 30.6 km long distribution line. Within 18 plots, we detected 43 fatalities of 11 species (17 individuals of six species due to collision and 26 individuals of eight species due to electrocution). House Swift (Apus nipalensis) and Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis) were the primary victims of the collision, whereas House Crow (Corvus splendens) and Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) were frequently observed electrocuted. We also recorded the electrocution of the critically endangered White-rumped Vulture (Gyps bengalensis). The total rate of bird power line collisions per kilometer was 0.55 birds, while the total electrocution rate per 10 poles was 2.22. The bird abundance, distance to agricultural regions, and proximity to human settlements were found to have a strong relationship with the mortality of birds caused by power lines. In order to reduce power line collisions and electrocution fatalities, we recommend conducting a detailed bird population study prior to determining the route of distribution lines.}, }
@article {pmid37174561, year = {2023}, author = {Beauchamp, G and Barve, S}, title = {Multiple Sentinels in a Cooperative Breeder Synchronize Rather Than Coordinate Gazing.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {13}, number = {9}, pages = {}, pmid = {37174561}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {Sentinels can detect predators and rivals early by monitoring their surroundings from vantage points. Multiple sentinels in a group may reduce the perceived predation risk by diluting the risk and increasing collective detection, especially if sentinels monitor different areas at the same time. We investigated sentinel behavior in groups of the Florida scrub jay (Aphelocoma caerulescens). Sentinels in this species turn their heads frequently to monitor different areas for threats. As predicted, we found that sentinels turned their heads less frequently in the presence of other sentinels. Multiple sentinels, however, tended to gaze in the same direction at the same time more often than predicted by chance alone. Gaze synchronization reduces the efficiency of collective detection by reducing visual coverage at any one time at the group level. Despite the benefits of the presence of other sentinels, our results highlight the limits to collective detection when multiple individuals are vigilant at the same time.}, }
@article {pmid37168985, year = {2023}, author = {Madden, JR and Buckley, R and Ratcliffe, S}, title = {Large-scale correlations between gamebird release and management and animal biodiversity metrics in lowland Great Britain.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {e10059}, pmid = {37168985}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {The ecological effects on populations of non-game species driven by the annual release and management of tens of millions of gamebirds for recreational shooting are complex and relatively poorly understood. We investigated these effects at a national scale, considering multiple taxa simultaneously. We used records from the UK National Biodiversity Network Atlas to compare animal species and diversity metrics previously suggested to be affected by behaviors of the released birds, or because resources or habitats are influenced by game management or both processes. We contrasted records from 1 km grid squares where gamebirds were reported released in Great Britain, and control squares with similar land cover but where no releases were reported. There were more records overall reported from release grid squares (RGS) compared with controls (CGS), perhaps due to greater reporting effort or greater biological richness. We found fewer foxes in RGS and fewest in grid squares with largest releases, but more carrion crows in RGS. We found no consistent effects for buzzards, ravens, jays, or magpies. There were more rodents and gray squirrels reported from RGS but no differences for reptiles. There were more butterflies but fewer beetles reported from RGS but no consistent patterns for Orthoptera or ground beetles considered common gamebird prey. Farmland and woodland birds exhibited higher abundance, richness, and diversity in RGS when considering absolute records, but woodland bird abundance and richness were lower when correcting for the relative number of records. These nationwide results, despite crude data resolution, reveal diverse effects of gamebird release and management at a national scale and across trophic levels, increasing some non-game animal populations while decreasing others. This should alert practitioners, opponents, and legislators that a focus on single taxa effects, either positive or negative, may obscure the simultaneous changes in other taxa.}, }
@article {pmid37164878, year = {2023}, author = {Basak, S and Bhattacharyya, B}, title = {Optimal scheduling in demand-side management based grid-connected microgrid system by hybrid optimization approach considering diverse wind profiles.}, journal = {ISA transactions}, volume = {139}, number = {}, pages = {357-375}, doi = {10.1016/j.isatra.2023.04.027}, pmid = {37164878}, issn = {1879-2022}, abstract = {Demand side management (DSM) is one of the trending economic strategies which shifts the elastic demand to the off-peak hours from the peak hours so as to reduce the overall generation cost of the system. The work done in this paper can be categorized in three phases. In the first phase, various wind speed to power conversion mathematical models available in literature are analysed to find out the one with maximum level of wind penetration. For second phase, an economic DSM strategy is implemented to restructure the forecasted load demand model for various participation levels. In the final phase the cost-effective optimization of two microgrid distribution systems are percolated. As an optimization tool, novel hybrid CSAJAYA has been used to carry on the study. Different types of grid participating and pricing strategies along with valve point loading effect and wind energy uncertainty are considered to amplify the complexity and practicality of the study. The generation costs reduced from 3 to 5% when the forecasted demand was reformed with 20% DSM participation for both the test systems. A detailed comparison with the results from various optimization tools studied confirms the effectiveness of the proposed hybrid approach. The hybrid optimization tool presented in this paper performs better in terms of central tendencies, nonparametric statistical analysis, and algorithm execution time.}, }
@article {pmid37155516, year = {2023}, author = {Gibielle, C and Bousseksou, L and Guéhenneux, S and Vié, K}, title = {In a Preliminary Study on Human Subjects, a Cosmetic Cream Containing a Harungana madagascariensis Plant Extract Induces Similar Anti-Aging Effects to a Retinol-Containing Cream.}, journal = {Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology}, volume = {16}, number = {}, pages = {1051-1058}, pmid = {37155516}, issn = {1178-7015}, abstract = {Retinoids are the most effective anti-aging ingredients. Yet, their use can result in adverse reactions. Even bakuchiol, a natural functional analog, can lead to contact dermatitis. We previously showed that a Harungana madagascariensis (Lam. ex Poir.) plant extract (HME) presents retinol-like properties in vitro. Therefore, we performed a preliminary analysis of the anti-aging potential of a cream containing HME on 46 subjects. The participants applied a HME cream on half of their face and one forearm. The effects induced were compared to those produced by a retinol cream applied to the contralateral side. Clinical evaluations indicate that the two creams rapidly (28 days) improve wrinkles underneath the eyes, ptosis, color homogeneity, smoothness, plumpness, firmness, and elasticity of the facial skin. The improvement of crow's feet is only significant after 56 days. For all clinical signs, the effects of both creams are indistinguishable. Instrumental measurements of silicon replica from the eye contour region indicate that the wrinkle surface reduction is already noticeable after 28 days with the HME and retinol cream, while it takes 56 days to have a significant depth decrease. Only the retinol cream improves wrinkle length after 56 days. Ultrasound assessment of forearm skin revealed that the HME cream improves superficial dermis density as early as 28 days with further improvement at day 56, timepoint at which improvement is at the limit of significance with the retinol cream. These preliminary results indicate that HME has similar in vivo functional properties to retinol for reducing the severity of aging signs. Future works, including a bona fide clinical study, are needed to confirm these findings.}, }
@article {pmid37137309, year = {2023}, author = {Wagener, L and Nieder, A}, title = {Categorical representation of abstract spatial magnitudes in the executive telencephalon of crows.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {33}, number = {11}, pages = {2151-2162.e5}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2023.04.013}, pmid = {37137309}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; *Crows ; Learning ; Neurons/physiology ; Telencephalon/physiology ; }, abstract = {The ability to group abstract continuous magnitudes into meaningful categories is cognitively demanding but key to intelligent behavior. To explore its neuronal mechanisms, we trained carrion crows to categorize lines of variable lengths into arbitrary "short" and "long" categories. Single-neuron activity in the nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL) of behaving crows reflected the learned length categories of visual stimuli. The length categories could be reliably decoded from neuronal population activity to predict the crows' conceptual decisions. NCL activity changed with learning when a crow was retrained with the same stimuli assigned to more categories with new boundaries ("short", "medium," and "long"). Categorical neuronal representations emerged dynamically so that sensory length information at the beginning of the trial was transformed into behaviorally relevant categorical representations shortly before the crows' decision making. Our data show malleable categorization capabilities for abstract spatial magnitudes mediated by the flexible networks of the crow NCL.}, }
@article {pmid37132827, year = {2023}, author = {Huang, Y and Zhang, Z and Deng, C and Chen, Z and Yang, H and Hu, C and Zhang, X and Wang, T}, title = {Highly efficient method for cutting position selection of an x-ray mono-capillary lens based on an improved SCA-CSA algorithm.}, journal = {Applied optics}, volume = {62}, number = {13}, pages = {3275-3283}, doi = {10.1364/AO.488807}, pmid = {37132827}, issn = {1539-4522}, abstract = {In order to efficiently select the optimal cutting position of x-ray mono-capillary lenses, an improved sine cosine algorithm-crow search algorithm (SCA-CSA) algorithm is proposed, which combines the sine cosine algorithm with the crow search algorithm, with further enhancements. The fabricated capillary profile is measured using an optical profiler; then the surface figure error for interest regions of the mono-capillary can be evaluated using the improved SCA-CSA algorithm. The experimental results indicate that the surface figure error in the final capillary cut region is about 0.138 µm, and the runtime is 2.284 s. When compared with the traditional metaheuristic algorithm, the particle swarm optimization algorithm, the improved SCA-CSA algorithm, enhances the surface figure error metric by two orders of magnitude. Furthermore, the standard deviation index of the surface figure error metric for 30 runs also improves by more than 10 orders of magnitude, demonstrating the superior performance and robustness of the algorithm. The proposed method provides significant support for the development of precise cuttings of mono-capillaries.}, }
@article {pmid37119534, year = {2023}, author = {Schütz, M and Braswell, H}, title = {Ethicizing history. Bioethical representations of Nazi medicine.}, journal = {Bioethics}, volume = {37}, number = {6}, pages = {581-590}, doi = {10.1111/bioe.13168}, pmid = {37119534}, issn = {1467-8519}, mesh = {Humans ; History, 20th Century ; *National Socialism ; Human Experimentation ; *Bioethics ; Bioethical Issues ; Germany ; }, abstract = {The article presents and analyzes different approaches of U.S. bioethicists in comprehending the Nazi medical crimes after 1945. The account is divided into two sections: one dealing with discussions on research ethics and the Nuremberg Code up until the 1970s and the other ranging from the 1970s to the present and highlighting bioethics' engagement with Nazi analogies. The portrayal of different bioethical scholars, institutions, and documents-most notably Henry K. Beecher, Jay Katz, the Belmont Report, the Hastings Center, Arthur L. Caplan, and Robert M. Veatch-provides a nuanced interpretation of the motives that bioethicists held and the strategies that they applied to establish an understanding of the Nazi medical crimes and their relation to contemporary bioethical issues. In this, the different approaches shared a common goal: To integrate the Nazi medical crimes into an ethical framework by means of selective acknowledgments and representation of their history.}, }
@article {pmid37116431, year = {2023}, author = {Li, B and Chen, J and Howard, N}, title = {Community nursing delivery in urban China: A social power perspective.}, journal = {Social science &amp; medicine (1982)}, volume = {326}, number = {}, pages = {115923}, doi = {10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.115923}, pmid = {37116431}, issn = {1873-5347}, mesh = {Humans ; *Nurse-Patient Relations ; Power, Psychological ; *Nurses ; China ; }, abstract = {Community nurses remain understudied in research on interactional power, especially in China where community healthcare is an emerging practice. Grounded in French &amp; Raven's typology of social power, this article conceptualises the power of community nurses in a Chinese urban context. Through thematic analysis of textual data from 26 semi-structured interviews and two additional focus group discussions with community nurses in Shenzhen, we identified six power varieties, i.e. indirect reward, indirect coercion, legitimate position, peer reference, field expertise, and caring information. We classified these powers trichotomously, as nurse-to-doctor, nurse-to-nurse, and nurse-to-patient, to show the potential influences nurses bring to healthcare relationships. Our analysis indicated nurses' exercise of some powers was constrained by two elements, i.e. doctor-nurse power polarity and patient prejudices against nursing, which together contributed to nurses' adverse power loss. These power adversities permeated the community health environment, contributing to healthcare delivery dysfunctions by undermining nurses' self-improvement, self-assurance, enthusiasm, and cooperation in care. Our analysis, using the insights of social power, develops a novel reading of community nursing delivery in urban China. We argue that nurse empowerment could promote community healthcare delivery. Role enhancement and pro-nursing policy development would reduce adverse power scenarios for community nurses and help convert their potential power resources into practical powers in support of patients' needs.}, }
@article {pmid37103258, year = {2023}, author = {Pallentin, VS and Danner, D and Rummel, J}, title = {Construction and Validation of the HeiQ: An Operation-Oriented Figural Matrices Test.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {37103258}, issn = {2079-3200}, abstract = {Figural matrices tests are among the most popular and well-investigated tests used to assess inductive reasoning abilities. Solving these tests requires the selection of a target that completes a figural matrix among distractors. Despite their generally good psychometric properties, previous matrices tests have limitations associated with distractor construction that prevent them from realizing their full potential. Most tests allow participants to identify the correct response by eliminating distractors based on superficial features. The goal of this study was to develop a novel figural matrices test which is less prone to the use of response elimination strategies, and to test its psychometric properties. The new test consists of 48 items and was validated with N = 767 participants. Measurement models implied that the test is Rasch scalable, inferring a uniform underlying ability. The test showed good to very good reliability (retest-correlation: r = 0.88; Cronbach's alpha: α = 0.93; split-half reliability: r = 0.88) and good construct validity (r = 0.81 with the Raven Progressive Matrices Test, r = 0.73 with global intelligence scores of the Intelligence Structure Test 2000R, and r = 0.58 with the global score of the Berlin Intelligence Structure Test). It even superseded the Raven Progressive Matrices Tests in criterion-related validity (correlation with final year high school grades (r = -0.49 p < .001)). We conclude that this novel test has excellent psychometric properties and can be a valuable tool for researchers interested in reasoning assessment.}, }
@article {pmid37103257, year = {2023}, author = {Kramer, AW and Huizenga, HM}, title = {Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices for Adolescents: A Case for a Shortened Version.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {37103257}, issn = {2079-3200}, support = {400.17.602/NWO_/Dutch Research Council/Netherlands ; }, abstract = {Cognitive ability of adolescents is often measured using the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM). However, the RSPM knows a long administration time which may be suboptimal, as time-on-task effects are known to increase fatigue, to lower motivation, and to worsen performance on cognitive tasks. Therefore, a shortened version for adolescents was developed recently. In the current preregistered study we investigated this shortened version in a sample of adolescents (N = 99) of average educational backgrounds. We tested whether the shortened RSPM is a valid alternative to the original RSPM, which proved to be the case, as we observed a moderate to high correlation between the two versions. Moreover, we tested version effects on fatigue, motivation and performance. Fatigue was lower and motivation was higher after completing the short compared to the original version, and performance was better in the short compared to the original version. However, additional analyses suggested that beneficial version effects on performance were not due to reduced time-on-task, but due to the short version containing less difficult items than the original version. Moreover, version related differences in performance were not related to version related differences in fatigue and motivation. We conclude that the shortened version of the RSPM is a valid alternative to the original version, and that the shortened version is beneficial in terms of fatigue and motivation, but that these beneficial effects on fatigue and motivation do not carry over to performance.}, }
@article {pmid37099882, year = {2023}, author = {Wotherspoon, J and Whittingham, K and Sheffield, J and Boyd, RN}, title = {Cognition and learning difficulties in a representative sample of school-aged children with cerebral palsy.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {138}, number = {}, pages = {104504}, doi = {10.1016/j.ridd.2023.104504}, pmid = {37099882}, issn = {1873-3379}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Child ; Female ; Cohort Studies ; *Cerebral Palsy/psychology ; Cognition ; Intelligence Tests ; Intelligence ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Nearly half of all children with CP experience intellectual impairment, with impacts on academic achievement.<br><br>AIMS: To assess cognitive and academic functioning for primary-school aged children with CP METHODS AND PROCEDURES: This population-based cohort study assessed 93 participants (male n&#xa0;=&#xa0;62; mean = 9 years 9 months, SD 1&#xa0;y 1.8 months) on measures of fluid and crystallised intelligence (Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test) and academic achievement (Wechsler Individual Achievement Test). Analyses included t-tests, Pearson's chi-square and regression.<br><br>OUTCOMES AND RESULTS: 41 (44.1%) children met criteria consistent with intellectual developmental disorder. Academic skills were significantly below population means on word reading (M= 85.4, SD = 19.3), t(66)&#xa0;=&#xa0;-6.2, p&#xa0;<&#xa0;.001; spelling (M=83.3, SD=19.7) t(65)&#xa0;=&#xa0;-6.87, p&#xa0;<&#xa0;.001; and numerical operations (M=72.9, SD=21.7) Z&#xa0;=&#xa0;66.0, p&#xa0;<&#xa0;.001. Cognitive ability was associated with GMFCS level (&#x3c7;&#xb2; (1, N&#xa0;=&#xa0;93) =&#xa0;16.15, p&#xa0;<&#xa0;.001) and diagnosis of epilepsy (&#x3c7;&#xb2; (2, N&#xa0;=&#xa0;93) =&#xa0;11.51 p&#xa0;=&#xa0;.003). Crystallised and fluid intelligence together accounted for 65% of the variance in word reading, 56% in spelling and 52% in numerical operations.<br><br>IMPLICATIONS: Many children with CP experience academic challenges. Screening is recommended for all children with CP and full psychoeducational assessment undertaken when children with CP experience academic difficulties.}, }
@article {pmid37097012, year = {2023}, author = {Korkmaz, D and Demircioglu, I and Harem, IS and Yilmaz, B}, title = {Macroscopic and microscopic comparison of pecten oculi in different avian species.}, journal = {Anatomia, histologia, embryologia}, volume = {52}, number = {5}, pages = {696-708}, doi = {10.1111/ahe.12927}, pmid = {37097012}, issn = {1439-0264}, mesh = {Animals ; *Retinal Vessels/anatomy &amp; histology ; Microscopy, Electron/veterinary ; *Retina ; Ducks ; Quail ; }, abstract = {The current study aims to present differences between the pecten oculi of different avian species through morphologic, macroscopic, light, and electron microscopic examinations. The study is a comprehensive research on seven avian species (sparrowhawk, hawk, magpie, swan, heron, pheasant, duck). The right eyes of the animals utilized in the study were removed for light microscopic examination, whereas their left eyes were removed for electron microscopic and macroscopic examinations. Morphometric analyses, as well as stereo and light microscopic measurements, were carried out on the pecten oculi of the animals. Given all these data, it was determined that the height of the pecten oculi did not differ among the species in the study; however, the pecten oculi were larger in birds with the highest value compared to the other species in the macroscopic measurements. Also, the pecten oculi vessels were larger, and the number of melanocytes was higher in keen eyesight, raptor, and migratory birds with large bulbus oculi. All these data suggest that the pecten oculi not only supplies nutrient to the retina but also contributes to sharp vision during migration and hunting, UV absorption from sunlight, as well as preservation of intraocular equilibrium.}, }
@article {pmid37092417, year = {2023}, author = {Bai, Y and Cao, L and Chen, B and Chen, Y and Yue, Y}, title = {A Novel Topology Optimization Protocol Based on an Improved Crow Search Algorithm for the Perception Layer of the Internet of Things.}, journal = {Biomimetics (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {8}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {37092417}, issn = {2313-7673}, support = {LY23F010002//Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province/ ; }, abstract = {In wireless sensor networks, each sensor node has a finite amount of energy to expend. The clustering method is an efficient way to deal with the imbalance in node energy consumption. A topology optimization technique for wireless sensor networks based on the Cauchy variation optimization crow search algorithm (CM-CSA) is suggested to address the issues of rapid energy consumption, short life cycles, and unstable topology in wireless sensor networks. At the same time, a clustering approach for wireless sensor networks based on the enhanced Cauchy mutation crow search algorithm is developed to address the issue of the crow algorithm's sluggish convergence speed and ease of falling into the local optimum. It utilizes the Cauchy mutation to improve the population's variety and prevent settling for the local optimum, as well as to broaden the range of variation and the capacity to carry out global searches. When the leader realizes he is being followed, the discriminative probability is introduced to improve the current person's location update approach. According to the simulation findings, the suggested CM-CSA algorithm decreases the network's average energy consumption by 66.7%, 50%, and 33.3% and enhances its connectivity performance by 52.9%, 37.6%, and 23.5% when compared to the PSO algorithm, AFSA method, and basic CSA algorithm.}, }
@article {pmid37082716, year = {2023}, author = {Morris, KM and Mishra, A and Raut, AA and Gaunt, ER and Borowska, D and Kuo, RI and Wang, B and Vijayakumar, P and Chingtham, S and Dutta, R and Baillie, K and Digard, P and Vervelde, L and Burt, DW and Smith, J}, title = {Corrigendum: The molecular basis of differential host responses to avian influenza viruses in avian species with differing susceptibility.}, journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {1194878}, doi = {10.3389/fcimb.2023.1194878}, pmid = {37082716}, issn = {2235-2988}, abstract = {[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1067993.].}, }
@article {pmid37072037, year = {2023}, author = {Fuirst, M and Strickland, D and Freeman, NE and Sutton, AO and Ryan Norris, D}, title = {Early-life sibling conflict in Canada jays has lifetime fitness consequences.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {290}, number = {1997}, pages = {20221863}, pmid = {37072037}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Siblings ; *Songbirds ; Reproduction ; Ontario ; Birth Order ; Genetic Fitness ; }, abstract = {While delaying natal dispersal can provide short-term benefits for juveniles, lifetime fitness consequences are rarely assessed. Furthermore, competition for limited positions on a natal territory could impose an indirect fitness cost on the winner if the outcome has negative effects on its siblings. We use radio-tracking and 58 years of nesting data in Ontario, Canada to examine the lifetime fitness consequences of sibling expulsion in the Canada jay (Perisoreus canadensis). Six weeks after fledging, intra-brood dominance struggles result in one 'dominant juvenile' (DJ) remaining on the natal territory after expelling its subordinate siblings, the 'ejectees' (EJs). Despite an older age-at-first-reproduction, DJs produced more recruits over their lifetime and had higher first-year survival than EJs, leading to substantially higher direct fitness. Even though DJs incurred an indirect fitness cost by expelling their siblings and there was no evidence that their presence on the natal territory increased their parents' reproductive output the following year, they still had substantially higher inclusive fitness than EJs. Our results demonstrate how early-life sibling conflict can have lifetime consequences and that such fitness differences in Canada jays are driven by the enhanced first-year survival of DJs pursuant to the early-summer expulsion of their sibling competitors.}, }
@article {pmid37049608, year = {2023}, author = {Lowe, NM and Qualter, P and Sinclair, JK and Gupta, S and Zaman, M}, title = {School Feeding to Improve Cognitive Performance in Disadvantaged Children: A 3-Arm Parallel Controlled Trial in Northwest Pakistan.}, journal = {Nutrients}, volume = {15}, number = {7}, pages = {}, pmid = {37049608}, issn = {2072-6643}, mesh = {Child ; Humans ; *Cognition ; Food Services ; *Malnutrition/prevention &amp; control ; Meals ; Pakistan ; *Schools ; *Micronutrients/administration &amp; dosage ; }, abstract = {Malnutrition is associated with reduced learning aptitude and growth during childhood. We examined the impact of providing two school lunch variants, a standard school meal (school feeding, n = 70), or the standard meal with additional micronutrients (school feeding + micronutrient powder (MNP), n = 70), in children attending two schools in northwest Pakistan. A third local government school, where no lunch was provided (no school feeding, n = 70), served as the control. The primary outcome, cognitive function, was assessed using the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test, alongside haemoglobin, at three-time points: T1 (baseline, before the initiation of the school lunch programme), T2 and T3 (5 and 12 months, respectively, after the introduction of the school lunch). Data were analysed using linear mixed-effects models to contrast between trial groups, the changes from T1 to T2 and T3. Adjusted for T1 and other co-variates, improvements in the RCPM scores were significantly greater in the school feeding group at T2 (b = 1.61, (95% CI = 0.71-2.52), t = 3.52, p = 0.001) and T3 (b = 1.28, (95% CI = 0.22-2.35), t = 2.38, p = 0.019) compared with no school feeding. In addition, at T2 (b = 1.63, (95% CI = -0.10-3.37), t = 1.86, p = 0.065), there were no significant differences between school feeding + MNP and no school feeding groups. However, improvements in the RCPM scores were significantly greater in the school feeding + MNP group at T3 (b = 2.35, (95% CI = 0.51-4.20), t = 2.53, p = 0.013) compared with no school feeding. The findings indicate an improvement in cognitive performance in children who received a school meal with and without MNP, over a 12-month period. Currently there is no operational school feeding programme at the national or provincial level in Pakistan. Our findings, therefore, highlight the need for school feeding programmes to improve learning opportunities for children from underprivileged communities.}, }
@article {pmid37048448, year = {2023}, author = {Abou Zeid, F and Morelli, F and Ibáñez-Álamo, JD and Díaz, M and Reif, J and Jokimäki, J and Suhonen, J and Kaisanlahti-Jokimäki, ML and Markó, G and Bussière, R and Mägi, M and Tryjanowski, P and Kominos, T and Galanaki, A and Bukas, N and Pruscini, F and Jerzak, L and Ciebiera, O and Benedetti, Y}, title = {Spatial Overlap and Habitat Selection of Corvid Species in European Cities.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {13}, number = {7}, pages = {}, pmid = {37048448}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {Understanding habitat and spatial overlap in sympatric species of urban areas would aid in predicting species and community modifications in response to global change. Habitat overlap has been widely investigated for specialist species but neglected for generalists living in urban settings. Many corvid species are generalists and are adapted to urban areas. This work aimed to determine the urban habitat requirements and spatial overlap of five corvid species in sixteen European cities during the breeding season. All five studied corvid species had high overlap in their habitat selection while still having particular tendencies. We found three species, the Carrion/Hooded Crow, Rook, and Eurasian Magpie, selected open habitats. The Western Jackdaw avoided areas with bare soil cover, and the Eurasian Jay chose more forested areas. The species with similar habitat selection also had congruent spatial distributions. Our results indicate that although the corvids had some tendencies regarding habitat selection, as generalists, they still tolerated a wide range of urban habitats, which resulted in high overlap in their habitat niches and spatial distributions.}, }
@article {pmid37027113, year = {2023}, author = {Zeiträg, C and Osvath, M}, title = {Differential responses to con- and allospecific visual cues in juvenile ravens (Corvus corax): the ontogeny of gaze following and social predictions.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {26}, number = {4}, pages = {1251-1258}, pmid = {37027113}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {2019-03265//Vetenskapsr&#xe5;det/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Crows ; Cues ; Social Behavior ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Orientation ; }, abstract = {Gaze following refers to the ability to co-orient with others' gaze directions. Ontogenetic studies on gaze following in animals have predominantly used human experimenters as demonstrators. It is, however, likely that developing animals are initially more attuned to individuals from their own species, which might result in differences in the ontogenetic onset of gaze following with human and conspecific demonstrators. "Checking back" is a signature behaviour in the gaze following repertoires of humans, apes, and some Old world monkeys. It is commonly interpreted as a representation of the referentiality of gaze and is thus diagnostic of social predictions. Recently, "checking back" has been discovered in four avian species, suggesting a shared skill among birds. To investigate effects of con- and allospecific demonstrators on gaze following responses, we studied visual co-orientations of four hand-raised juvenile common ravens (Corvus corax) with human and conspecific gaze cues. Moreover, we for the first time investigated "checking back" in ravens and compared the effects of con- and allospecific demonstrators on this behaviour. Ravens followed human and conspecific gaze with no apparent differences in ontogenetic onset, but after significantly longer latencies with human demonstrators. Subjects moreover already checked back at 30 days old and did so significantly more often with conspecific demonstrators. Our findings suggest differences in processing speed and social predictions of human and conspecific gazes, indicating an underlying neurocognitive mechanism attuned to social information gathering from conspecifics. We propose more studies using conspecific demonstrators to reveal the full gaze following potential of a species.}, }
@article {pmid37023091, year = {2023}, author = {Foss, L and Feiszli, T and Kramer, VL and Reisen, WK and Padgett, K}, title = {Epidemic versus endemic West Nile virus dead bird surveillance in California: Changes in sensitivity and focus.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {18}, number = {4}, pages = {e0284039}, pmid = {37023091}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {U01 CK000539/CK/NCEZID CDC HHS/United States ; U01CK000539/ACL/ACL HHS/United States ; /CC/CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *West Nile virus/physiology ; *West Nile Fever/epidemiology/veterinary ; Mosquito Vectors ; California/epidemiology ; *Sparrows ; San Francisco ; *Bird Diseases/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Since 2003, the California West Nile virus (WNV) dead bird surveillance program (DBSP) has monitored publicly reported dead birds for WNV surveillance and response. In the current paper, we compared DBSP data from early epidemic years (2004-2006) with recent endemic years (2018-2020), with a focus on specimen collection criteria, county report incidence, bird species selection, WNV prevalence in dead birds, and utility of the DBSP as an early environmental indicator of WNV. Although fewer agencies collected dead birds in recent years, most vector control agencies with consistent WNV activity continued to use dead birds as a surveillance tool, with streamlined operations enhancing efficiency. The number of dead bird reports was approximately ten times greater during 2004-2006 compared to 2018-2020, with reports from the Central Valley and portions of Southern California decreasing substantially in recent years; reports from the San Francisco Bay Area decreased less dramatically. Seven of ten counties with high numbers of dead bird reports were also high human WNV case burden areas. Dead corvid, sparrow, and quail reports decreased the most compared to other bird species reports. West Nile virus positive dead birds were the most frequent first indicators of WNV activity by county in 2004-2006, followed by positive mosquitoes; in contrast, during 2018-2020 mosquitoes were the most frequent first indicators followed by dead birds, and initial environmental WNV detections occurred later in the season during 2018-2020. Evidence for WNV impacts on avian populations and susceptibility are discussed. Although patterns of dead bird reports and WNV prevalence in tested dead birds have changed, dead birds have endured as a useful element within our multi-faceted WNV surveillance program.}, }
@article {pmid37016604, year = {2023}, author = {Majeed, M and Nagabhushanam, K and Paulose, S and Rajalakshmi, HR and Mundkur, L}, title = {A Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study to Evaluate the Anti-Skin-Aging Effect of LactoSporin - The Extracellular Metabolite from Bacillus coagulans (Weizmannia coagulans) MTCC 5856 in Healthy Female Volunteers.}, journal = {Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology}, volume = {16}, number = {}, pages = {769-782}, pmid = {37016604}, issn = {1178-7015}, abstract = {PURPOSE: There has been a growing interest in the use of probiotics and their products for skin care, over the last decade. LactoSporin is the extracellular metabolite of a spore-forming probiotic Bacillus coagulans (Weizmannia coagulans) MTCC 5856, with antimicrobial and skin protecting activity.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: The anti-skin-aging potential of LactoSporin was evaluated in a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study in healthy female participants (70 screened and 56 randomized). The participants applied either LactoSporin or matched placebo formulation (N=28 in each group) for 10 weeks, and the effects were assessed by dermatological, and non-invasive instrument-based evaluation using Antera, Cutometer, Corneometer, and Tewameter. All the 56 participants completed the study and were included for the analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: The regular use of LactoSporin cream for 10 weeks showed a significant reduction in visibility of wrinkles around crow's feet, nasolabial folds, frown lines, and facial fine lines compared to baseline and placebo by dermatological and Antera assessments. LactoSporin showed improvement in skin elasticity and hydration by dermatological assessments, but the effect was not significantly different from placebo when assessed by Cutometer, Corneometer, and Tewameter. No adverse events or skin irritation was observed in any participants during the study.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These results suggest that LactoSporin could be a safe natural ingredient to reduce wrinkles and fine lines in cosmetic formulations.}, }
@article {pmid37016552, year = {2023}, author = {Asano, D and Takeda, M and Nobusako, S and Morioka, S}, title = {Error analysis of Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy.}, journal = {Journal of intellectual disability research : JIDR}, volume = {67}, number = {7}, pages = {655-667}, doi = {10.1111/jir.13034}, pmid = {37016552}, issn = {1365-2788}, mesh = {Humans ; Child ; Adolescent ; *Cerebral Palsy ; Intelligence Tests ; *Intellectual Disability ; Problem Solving ; Intelligence ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Analysis of the errors in the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) has been previously performed for children with intellectual disabilities but has not been investigated for those with cerebral palsy (CP). This study aimed to investigate whether the types and positions of errors made by individuals with CP differed from those made by typically developing (TD) controls.<br><br>METHODS: Forty-five participants with CP aged 4-18&#xa0;years and 30 TD children aged 3-9&#xa0;years underwent RCPM testing. We first compared the RCPM performance and error characteristics between the groups and then examined the association between RCPM and the severity of CP and receptive vocabulary in the CP group.<br><br>RESULTS: The results showed that while mean total scores in the two groups were comparable, the types and positions of errors made by individuals with CP differed from those of TD controls. The development of non-verbal intelligence in children with CP increased with age; when controlling for age, non-verbal intelligence was significantly correlated with all three functional levels of CP severity and receptive vocabulary.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study provides valuable insights into the problem-solving strategies employed by children with CP.}, }
@article {pmid37014209, year = {2023}, author = {Sarker, S}, title = {Complete Mitochondrial Genome Sequence of an Australian Little Crow (Corvus bennetti).}, journal = {Microbiology resource announcements}, volume = {12}, number = {5}, pages = {e0136722}, pmid = {37014209}, issn = {2576-098X}, support = {DE200100367//Australian Reserach Council/ ; }, abstract = {This study reports the complete mitochondrial genome sequence of an Australian little crow (Corvus bennetti). The circular genome has a size of 16,895 bp and contains 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, and two rRNA genes. The study provides a reference mitochondrial genome of a little crow for further molecular studies.}, }
@article {pmid36993152, year = {2023}, author = {Yin, D and Li, X and Lorrilliere, R and Han, Z and Zhang, K and Yu, J and E, M and Wang, H}, title = {A case report of an Eurasian jay (Garrulus glandarius) attacking an incubating adult and depredating the eggs of the Japanese tit (Parus minor).}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {13}, number = {3}, pages = {e9931}, pmid = {36993152}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {In May 2021, we opportunistically observed one Eurasian jay (Garrulus glandarius) attacking an adult incubating Japanese tit (Parus minor) and depredating nine tit eggs at a nest box where a woodpecker had greatly enlarged the entrance. After the predation event, the Japanese tits abandoned the nest. We recommend that when using artificial nest boxes to protect hole-nesting birds, the appropriate entrance size should be proportional to the body size of the target species. This observation gives us a better understanding of the potential predators of secondary hole-nesting birds.}, }
@article {pmid36992272, year = {2023}, author = {Simeunovic, G and Polega, J and Toor, S and Andersen, NJ}, title = {Retrospective Analysis of Vaccinated and Unvaccinated COVID-19 Patients Treated with Monoclonal Antibodies (mAb) and Their Emergent Needs (RAVEN).}, journal = {Vaccines}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {36992272}, issn = {2076-393X}, abstract = {Strategies to combat COVID-19 include vaccines and Monoclonal Antibody Therapy. While vaccines aim to prevent development of symptoms, Monoclonal Antibody Therapy aims to prevent the progression of mild to severe disease. An increasing number of COVID-19 infections in vaccinated patients raised the question of whether vaccinated and unvaccinated COVID-19 positive patients respond differently to Monoclonal Antibody Therapy. The answer can help prioritize patients if resources are scarce. We performed a retrospective study to evaluate and compare the outcomes and risks for disease progression between vaccinated and unvaccinated COVID-19 patients treated with Monoclonal Antibody Therapy by measuring the number of Emergency Department visits and hospitalizations within 14 days as well as the progression to severe disease, defined through the Intensive Care Unit admissions within 14 days, and death within 28 days from the Monoclonal Antibody infusion. From 3898 included patients, 2009 (51.5%) were unvaccinated at the time of Monoclonal Antibody infusion. Unvaccinated patients had more Emergency Department visits (217 vs. 79, p < 0.0001), hospitalizations (116 vs. 38, p < 0.0001), and progression to severe disease (25 vs. 19, p = 0.016) following treatment with Monoclonal Antibody Therapy. After adjustment for demographics and comorbidities, unvaccinated patients were 2.45 times more likely to seek help in the Emergency Department and 2.70 times more likely to be hospitalized. Our data suggest the added benefit between the COVID-19 vaccine and Monoclonal Antibody Therapy.}, }
@article {pmid36973988, year = {2023}, author = {Santoprete, R and Hourblin, V and Foucher, A and Dufour, O and Bernard, D and Domanov, Y and Querleux, B and Potter, A}, title = {Reduction of wrinkles: From a computational hypothesis to a clinical, instrumental, and biological proof.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {29}, number = {3}, pages = {e13267}, pmid = {36973988}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Humans ; Aging ; *Glycerol/pharmacology ; Proteomics ; Skin/drug effects ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; Face ; Facial Expression ; Computer Simulation ; *Dermatologic Agents/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Facial wrinkles are clear markers of the aging process, being chronological, photo-induced, or reflecting repetitive facial expressions. The aim of this study is to provide new insights into the biophysical and biological mechanisms involved in the formation, prevention, or elimination of the expression wrinkles.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: We use a computational model to get a better understanding of the wrinkle mechanical behavior and evolution after skin softening and suggesting a possible antiaging mechanism. Then, we provide a clinical demonstration of the anti-wrinkle effect of a long-term application of a 20% glycerol in a moisturizer formula (GBM) versus its vehicle on crow's feet. Skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkles visibility were evaluated by a combination of clinical and instrumental in vivo data, inverse finite element analysis, and proteomic data.<br><br>RESULTS: The computational model shows a predominantly compressive stress beneath the wrinkle and its significant decrease by the softening of stratum corneum. The associated clinical study confirmed a significant increase of skin hydration and elasticity as well as a decrease of wrinkle visibility after 2 and 4 months as application for both formulas; this effect being stronger for GBM. A softening effect on stratum corneum and dermis was also observed for the GBM. Furthermore, proteomic data revealed an effect of upregulation of four proteins associated with desquamation, cell-glycan extracellular interactions, and protein glycation/oxidation, functions related to the tissue mechanics and adhesion.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: We provide an in vivo demonstration of the anti-ageing benefit of glycerol at high dose (20%) reflected by a cumulative skin surface softening effect. The use of high moisturizing potent formulations should bring additional performance to other conventional moisturizing formulations.}, }
@article {pmid36971706, year = {2023}, author = {Radke, NV and Mohamed, S and Brown, RB and Ibrahim, I and Chhablani, J and Amin, SV and Tsang, CW and Brelen, ME and Raichand, NS and Fang, D and Zhang, S and Dai, H and Chen, GLJ and Cheung, CMG and Hariprasad, SM and Das, T and Lam, DSC}, title = {Review on the Safety and Efficacy of Brolucizumab for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration From Major Studies and Real-World Data.}, journal = {Asia-Pacific journal of ophthalmology (Philadelphia, Pa.)}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {168-183}, doi = {10.1097/APO.0000000000000602}, pmid = {36971706}, issn = {2162-0989}, mesh = {Humans ; Angiogenesis Inhibitors/therapeutic use ; *Diabetic Retinopathy/drug therapy ; *Macular Edema/drug therapy ; Endothelial Growth Factors/therapeutic use ; Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor/therapeutic use ; *Uveitis/drug therapy ; Inflammation ; Intravitreal Injections ; Recombinant Fusion Proteins/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {Frequent antivascular endothelial growth factor injections in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) often lead to poor compliance and suboptimal outcomes. A longer-acting agent has been a pressing unmet need until recently. Brolucizumab, an antivascular endothelial growth factor agent, is a single-chain antibody fragment approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on October 8, 2019, for treating nAMD. It delivers more molecules at equivalent volumes of aflibercept, thus achieving a longer-lasting effect. We reviewed literature published in English between January 2016 and October 2022 from MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane database, Embase, and Google scholar using the keywords: "Brolucizumab, real-world data, intraocular inflammation (IOI), safety, and efficacy". Brolucizumab showed reduced injection frequency, better anatomic outcomes, and noninferior vision gains compared with aflibercept in HAWK and HARRIER studies. However, post hoc studies on brolucizumab revealed a higher-than-expected incidence of IOI, leading to the early termination of 3 studies: MERLIN, RAPTOR, and RAVEN for nAMD, branch retinal vein occlusion, and central retinal vein occlusion, respectively. Contrastingly real-world data showed encouraging outcomes in terms of fewer IOI cases. The subsequent amendment of the treatment protocol resulted in reduced IOI. Thereafter US FDA approved its use in diabetic macular edema on June 1, 2022. Based on major studies and real-world data, this review shows that brolucizumab is effective for treating naive and refractory nAMD. The risk of IOI is acceptable and manageable, but proper preinjection screening and high-vigilance care of IOI are needed. More studies are warranted to evaluate further the incidence, best prevention, and treatment measures for IOI.}, }
@article {pmid36971625, year = {2023}, author = {Troiano, AT and Peel, M and Cameron, AI and Bast, R and Flewelling, L and Abbott, J and Barron, H}, title = {INVESTIGATING BLOOD LACTATE CONCENTRATION AS A PROGNOSTIC INDICATOR FOR BIRDS PRESENTING WITH BREVETOXICOSIS: 2020-2021.}, journal = {Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine : official publication of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians}, volume = {54}, number = {1}, pages = {23-31}, doi = {10.1638/2022-0087}, pmid = {36971625}, issn = {1042-7260}, mesh = {Animals ; *Lactic Acid ; Prognosis ; *Animals, Wild ; Birds ; Mammals ; }, abstract = {Large blooms of the dinoflagellate Karenia brevis cause annual harmful algal bloom events, or "red tides" on Florida's Gulf Coast. Each year, the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) is presented with hundreds of cases of aquatic birds that exhibit neurologic clinical signs due to brevetoxicosis. Double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auratus) are the most common species seen, and typically present with a combination of ataxia, head tremors, knuckling, and/or lagophthalmos. Blood lactate levels are known to increase in mammals for a variety of reasons, including stress, hypoxia, sepsis, and trauma, but there is limited literature on blood lactate values in avian species. The objective of this study was to determine the prognostic value of blood lactate concentration on successful rehabilitation and release of birds presenting with clinical signs consistent with brevetoxicosis. Blood lactate levels were collected on intake, the morning after presentation and initial therapy, and prior to disposition (release or euthanasia) from 194 birds (including 98 cormorants) representing 17 species during the 2020-2021 red tide season. Overall, mean blood lactate at intake, the morning after intake, and predisposition was 2.9, 2.8, and 3.2 mmol/L, respectively, for released birds across all species (2.9, 2.9, and 3.2 mmol/L for released cormorants); 3.4, 3.4, and 6.5 mmol/L for birds that died (4.0, 3.5, and 7.9 mmol/L for cormorants that died); and 3.1, 3.5, and 4.7 mmol/L for birds that were euthanized (3.5, 4.7, and 4.9 mmol/L for cormorants that were euthanized). On average, birds that died or were euthanized had an elevated lactate at all time points as compared to those that were released, but these results were not statistically significant (P = 0.13). These results indicate that blood lactate levels do not appear to be useful as a prognostic indicator for successful release of birds, including double-crested cormorants, affected by brevetoxicosis.}, }
@article {pmid36964968, year = {2023}, author = {Pasadas, C}, title = {A commentary on Jay, E.-K., Patterson, C., Fernandez, R., &amp; Moxham, L. (2022). Experiences of recovery among adults with a mental illness using visual art methods: A systematic review. Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing. https://doi.org/10.1111/jpm.12882.}, journal = {Journal of psychiatric and mental health nursing}, volume = {30}, number = {5}, pages = {1040-1041}, doi = {10.1111/jpm.12926}, pmid = {36964968}, issn = {1365-2850}, mesh = {Humans ; Adult ; *Psychiatric Nursing ; *Mental Disorders ; }, }
@article {pmid36949299, year = {2023}, author = {De Marchi, F and Saraceno, M and Sarnelli, MF and Virgilio, E and Cantello, R and Mazzini, L}, title = {Potential role of vitamin D levels in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis cognitive impairment.}, journal = {Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology}, volume = {44}, number = {8}, pages = {2795-2802}, pmid = {36949299}, issn = {1590-3478}, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Vitamin D ; *Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/diagnosis ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/etiology ; *Vitamin D Deficiency/complications ; Survival Analysis ; }, abstract = {Cognitive impairment (CI) is common in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): a keystone is identifying factors that could potentially modify the CI course. In recent years, vitamin D is becoming a potential modificatory factor for CI in many neurological disorders. This study aimed to highlight if vitamin D deficiency correlated with CI and clinical features in a cohort of ALS patients. We included 55 ALS patients with a neuropsychological evaluation (classified with the Strong Criteria) and a vitamin D dosage at the diagnosis. We also reviewed medical records and completed data for medical history, physical and neurological examination, and functional scales. At the diagnosis, 30 patients (54%) had CI. Most patients (82%) displayed low vitamin D levels (19.87 ± 9.80 ng/ml). Comparing the vitamin D level between patients with and without CI, we observed significantly lower values in the first group (15.8 ± 8.2 vs. 22.0 ± 9.7 ng/ml, p: 0.04). In the spinal female subgroup (n = 15), we found an inverse correlation between vitamin D and bizarreness score in the cognitive estimates test (r = 0.58; p: 0.04) and a positive correlation with the Corrected Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (r = 0.53, p: 0.04). Conversely, in the bulbar female group, we observed a correlation with the corrected direct span (r = 0.84, p: 0.03). With the log-rank survival analysis, we found that the patients with vitamin D < 10 ng/ml had a shorter disease duration (Chi: 5.78, p: 0.02). Our results indicate that levels of vitamin D can influence the cognitive status of people living with ALS and that severe deficits might be an adverse prognostic survival factor.}, }
@article {pmid36947493, year = {2023}, author = {Park, S and Choi, J and Kim, B and Noh, H and Lee, SI}, title = {Effect of nanostructural irregularities on structural color in the tail feathers of the Oriental magpie Pica serica.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {18}, number = {3}, pages = {e0282053}, pmid = {36947493}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Feathers/chemistry ; Pica ; Color ; *Passeriformes ; Microscopy, Electron, Transmission ; }, abstract = {The tail feathers of magpies are iridescent, with hues ranging from navy to violet and green. It has been previously shown that the hexagonal arrangement of melanosomes in the distal barbules is responsible for these colors, but previous simulation models have relied on average values for the parameters associated with this arrangement (e.g., periodicity), and it remains to be studied whether the actual (rather than averaged) structural arrangement and its inherent irregularities reliably predict structural color. Previous studies using unmodified images for the analysis have not focused on the effect of such irregularities on the color production. In this study, we conducted finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulations using actual transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images obtained from the distal barbules of a magpie tail feather, compared the reflectance spectra predicted using the FDTD simulation with those measured with a spectrometer, and found a substantial discrepancy between the two. Fourier analysis suggests that the non-uniform arrangement of the melanosomes within the barbule is responsible for this discrepancy by creating variation in the periodicity. Our results suggest that a simple model in which the parameters for internal structures are averaged cannot fully explain the variation in the structural colors observed in biological samples such as the feathers of birds.}, }
@article {pmid36941779, year = {2023}, author = {Dreisbach, D and Bhandari, DR and Betz, A and Tenbusch, L and Vilcinskas, A and Spengler, B and Petschenka, G}, title = {Spatial metabolomics reveal divergent cardenolide processing in the monarch (Danaus plexippus) and the common crow butterfly (Euploea core).}, journal = {Molecular ecology resources}, volume = {23}, number = {6}, pages = {1195-1210}, doi = {10.1111/1755-0998.13786}, pmid = {36941779}, issn = {1755-0998}, support = {PE 2059/3-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; //LOEWE Program of the State of Hesse (LOEWE Center for Insect Biotechnology and Bioresources)/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Butterflies ; Larva ; *Crows/metabolism ; Cardenolides/metabolism ; *Asclepias/chemistry/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Although being famous for sequestering milkweed cardenolides, the mechanism of sequestration and where cardenolides are localized in caterpillars of the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus, Lepidoptera: Danaini) is still unknown. While monarchs tolerate cardenolides by a resistant Na[+] /K[+] -ATPase, it is unclear how closely related species such as the nonsequestering common crow butterfly (Euploea core, Lepidoptera: Danaini) cope with these toxins. Using novel atmospheric-pressure scanning microprobe matrix-assisted laser/desorption ionization mass spectrometry imaging, we compared the distribution of cardenolides in caterpillars of D. plexippus and E. core. Specifically, we tested at which physiological scale quantitative differences between both species are mediated and how cardenolides distribute across body tissues. Whereas D. plexippus sequestered most cardenolides from milkweed (Asclepias curassavica), no cardenolides were found in the tissues of E. core. Remarkably, quantitative differences already manifest in the gut lumen: while monarchs retain and accumulate cardenolides above plant concentrations, the toxins are degraded in the gut lumen of crows. We visualized cardenolide transport over the monarch midgut epithelium and identified integument cells as the final site of storage where defences might be perceived by predators. Our study provides molecular insight into cardenolide sequestration and highlights the great potential of mass spectrometry imaging for understanding the kinetics of multiple compounds including endogenous metabolites, plant toxins, or insecticides in insects.}, }
@article {pmid36937059, year = {2023}, author = {Pizarro, AK and DeRaad, DA and McCormack, JE}, title = {Temporal stability of the hybrid zone between Calocitta magpie-jays revealed through comparison of museum specimens and iNaturalist photos.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {13}, number = {3}, pages = {e9863}, pmid = {36937059}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Hybrid zones are natural experiments for the study of avian evolution. Hybrid zones can be dynamic, moving as species adjust to new climates and habitats, with unknown implications for species and speciation. There are relatively few studies that have comparable modern and historic sampling to assess change in hybrid zone location and width over time, and those studies have generally found mixed results, with many hybrid zones showing change over time, but others showing stability. The white-throated magpie-jay (Calocitta formosa) and black-throated magpie-jay (Calocitta colliei) occur along the western coast of Mexico and Central America. The two species differ markedly in throat color and tail length, and prior observation suggests a narrow hybrid zone in southern Jalisco where individuals have mixed throat color. This study aims to assess the existence and temporal stability of this putative hybrid zone by comparing throat color between georeferenced historical museum specimens and modern photos from iNaturalist with precise locality information. Our results confirm the existence of a narrow hybrid zone in Jalisco, with modern throat scores gradually increasing from the parental ends of the cline toward the cline center in a sigmoidal curve characteristic of hybrid zones. Our temporal comparison suggests that the hybrid zone has not shifted its position between historical (pre-1973) and modern (post-2005) time periods-a surprising result given the grand scale of habitat change to the western Mexican lowlands during this time. An anomalous pocket of white-throated individuals in the northern range of the black-throated magpie-jay hints at the possibility of prehistorical long-distance introduction. Future genomic data will help disentangle the evolutionary history of these lineages and better characterize how secondary contact is affecting both the DNA and the phenotype of these species.}, }
@article {pmid36929339, year = {2023}, author = {Liu, H and Li, T and Ding, S and Tang, J and Wang, C and Wang, D}, title = {Complete genome sequence analysis and biological characteristics of Newcastle disease viruses from different hosts in China.}, journal = {Virus genes}, volume = {59}, number = {3}, pages = {449-456}, pmid = {36929339}, issn = {1572-994X}, support = {DY-CX005//Innovation Team Programes of College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University/ ; 201701D221198//General Program of Shanxi Youth Science and Technology Research Fund/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Chick Embryo ; Newcastle disease virus ; *Newcastle Disease ; Phylogeny ; Genome, Viral/genetics ; Chickens ; China ; Poultry/genetics ; Columbidae ; Sequence Analysis ; Genotype ; *Poultry Diseases ; }, abstract = {Newcastle disease (ND) is one of the most serious diseases affecting poultry worldwide. In 2022, we studied two strains of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) from pigeons and magpies identified by PCR and propagated in SPF chicken embryos. The whole genome of the virus was then expanded and its biological characteristics were studied. The results showed that NDV was isolated from pigeons and magpies. Virus present in the allantoic fluid could agglutinate red blood cells and could not be neutralized by serum positive for avian influenza. Sequencing showed that the gene length of the two isolates was 15,191 bp, had high homology and was located in the same branch of the phylogenetic tree, both belonging to genotype VI.1.1. The sequence of 112-117 amino acids in the F gene sequence was [112]R-R-Q-K-R-F[117], which constituted virulent strain characteristics. The HN gene contained 577 amino acids, which is also consistent with the characteristics of a virulent strain. The results from the study of biological characteristics revealed that the virulence of SX/TY/Pi01/22 was slightly stronger. There were only four different bases in the complete sequence of the two strains. Comprehensive analysis revealed that the G at 11,847 site of the SX/TY/Ma01/22 strain may change to T, leading to translation of amino acids from R to S, thereby weakening viral virulence. Therefore, NDV was transmitted from pigeons to magpies, indicating that the pathogen could be transmitted between poultry and wild birds.}, }
@article {pmid36926515, year = {2023}, author = {Morris, KM and Mishra, A and Raut, AA and Gaunt, ER and Borowska, D and Kuo, RI and Wang, B and Vijayakumar, P and Chingtham, S and Dutta, R and Baillie, K and Digard, P and Vervelde, L and Burt, DW and Smith, J}, title = {The molecular basis of differential host responses to avian influenza viruses in avian species with differing susceptibility.}, journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {1067993}, pmid = {36926515}, issn = {2235-2988}, support = {BB/L004666/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BBS/E/D/20002173/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BBS/E/D/20002174/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Influenza in Birds ; *Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype ; *Influenza A Virus, H9N2 Subtype ; Ducks ; Chickens ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses, such as H5N1, continue to pose a serious threat to animal agriculture, wildlife and to public health. Controlling and mitigating this disease in domestic birds requires a better understanding of what makes some species highly susceptible (such as turkey and chicken) while others are highly resistant (such as pigeon and goose). Susceptibility to H5N1 varies both with species and strain; for example, species that are tolerant of most H5N1 strains, such as crows and ducks, have shown high mortality to emerging strains in recent years. Therefore, in this study we aimed to examine and compare the response of these six species, to low pathogenic avian influenza (H9N2) and two strains of H5N1 with differing virulence (clade 2.2 and clade 2.3.2.1) to determine how susceptible and tolerant species respond to HPAI challenge.<br><br>METHODS: Birds were challenged in infection trials and samples (brain, ileum and lung) were collected at three time points post infection. The transcriptomic response of birds was examined using a comparative approach, revealing several important discoveries.<br><br>RESULTS: We found that susceptible birds had high viral loads and strong neuro-inflammatory response in the brain, which may explain the neurological symptoms and high mortality rates exhibited following H5N1 infection. We discovered differential regulation of genes associated with nerve function in the lung and ileum, with stronger differential regulation in resistant species. This has intriguing implications for the transmission of the virus to the central nervous system (CNS) and may also indicate neuro-immune involvement at the mucosal surfaces. Additionally, we identified delayed timing of the immune response in ducks and crows following infection with the more deadly H5N1 strain, which may account for the higher mortality in these species caused by this strain. Lastly, we identified candidate genes with potential roles in susceptibility/resistance which provide excellent targets for future research.<br><br>DISCUSSION: This study has helped elucidate the responses underlying susceptibility to H5N1 influenza in avian species, which will be critical in developing sustainable strategies for future control of HPAI in domestic poultry.}, }
@article {pmid36923610, year = {2023}, author = {Kubota, Y and Hanaoka, Y and Koyama, JI and Takahashi, Y and Katoh, N and Iwaya, M and Fujii, Y and Ogiwara, T and Horiuchi, T}, title = {Surgical revascularization for quasi-moyamoya disease associated with polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal gammopathy, and skin changes (POEMS) syndrome: a case report and literature review.}, journal = {Nagoya journal of medical science}, volume = {85}, number = {1}, pages = {141-149}, pmid = {36923610}, issn = {2186-3326}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Adult ; *Moyamoya Disease/surgery ; *POEMS Syndrome/surgery/complications ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A ; *Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance/complications ; *Stroke/complications ; *Ischemic Stroke/complications ; }, abstract = {POEMS (polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal gammopathy, and skin changes) syndrome is a rare multisystem disease characterized by plasma cell dyscrasia and overproduction of vascular endothelial growth factor, which is related to disease activity. Recent treatment strategies have improved survival of patients suffering from this disorder; however, ischemic stroke remains a poor prognostic factor. POEMS patients with ischemic stroke frequently develop cerebral large artery stenosis/occlusion, followed by progressive stroke. Post literature review, we present an ischemic stroke case of quasi-moyamoya disease linked with this syndrome that was successfully treated with surgical revascularization. A 41-year-old woman diagnosed with POEMS syndrome developed progressive ischemic stroke due to quasi-moyamoya disease, despite decreased vascular endothelial growth factor level with lenalidomide and dexamethasone treatment. She underwent superficial temporal artery to middle cerebral artery bypass with encephalo-duro-myo-synangiosis bilaterally. The postoperative course was uneventful. Two years and five months after the stroke, neuroimaging demonstrated bypass patency, neovascularization after encephalo-duro-myo-synangiosis, and no recurrence of stroke. Our case is the first to report successful surgical revascularization for a POEMS patient. Surgical revascularization may be a useful treatment option for patients with quasi-moyamoya disease associated with POEMS syndrome, especially for those who develop refractory ischemic stroke despite reduced vascular endothelial growth factor level.}, }
@article {pmid36919892, year = {2023}, author = {Zemach, M and Vakil, E and Lifshitz, H}, title = {Brain reserve theory: Are adults with intellectual disability more vulnerable to age than peers with typical development?.}, journal = {Journal of applied research in intellectual disabilities : JARID}, volume = {36}, number = {4}, pages = {796-811}, doi = {10.1111/jar.13096}, pmid = {36919892}, issn = {1468-3148}, support = {//National Insurance Institute of Israel and the Shalem Fund for Development of Services for People with Intellectual Disabilities in the Local Councils in Israel/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Adult ; *Intellectual Disability/psychology ; *Cognitive Reserve ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Life expectancy is on rise and the intriguing question is: When does cognitive decline occur among adults with intellectual disability, compared to adults with typical development? This cross-sectional study examined cognitive performance of crystallised/fluid intelligence, working and long-term memory of adults with intellectual disability of etiologies other than Down syndrome (IQ 50-68) and adults with typical development (IQ 85-114) in four age cohorts (30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60-69).<br><br>METHOD: The WAIS III[HEB] and the Rey-AVLT were administered to both groups.<br><br>RESULTS: Four patterns of cognitive performance were found: (a) Vocabulary (crystallised intelligence), Spatial Span Forward and Retention yielded similar scores across all four age cohorts in participants with typical development and with intellectual disability. (b) Similarities, Raven and Digit Span Backward exhibit lower scores only in 50-59 or 60-69 compared to the 30-39 age cohort in both groups, (c) Digit Span Forward, Spatial Span Backward and Total Leaning (LTM) yielded lower scores in the 50-59 or 60-69 age cohorts in the typical group, but similar scores in participants with intellectual disability along the age cohorts, (d) Block Design (fluid intelligence) yielded a lower score in the 50-59 cohort versus lower scores only at ages 60-69 in participants with typical development.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest a possible parallel trajectory in age-related cognitive performance for individuals with and without intellectual disability in six measures, and a possible more preserved trajectory in fluid intelligence and some memory measures in adults with intellectual disability compared to their peers. Caution should be exercised regarding Digit and Spatial Span Backwards, which yielded a floor effect in participants with intellectual disability. The Cognitive Reserve Theory, the Safeguard Hypothesis and late maturation might serve as explanations for these findings.}, }
@article {pmid36914498, year = {2023}, author = {Lama, CJ and Jones, MC and Dileso, S and Weiss, AP}, title = {The JAY (Joint Active Yoke) orthosis for a complex pip fracture-dislocation with failed volar plate repair: A case report.}, journal = {Journal of hand therapy : official journal of the American Society of Hand Therapists}, volume = {36}, number = {4}, pages = {1020-1027}, doi = {10.1016/j.jht.2022.09.001}, pmid = {36914498}, issn = {1545-004X}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Fracture Dislocation/surgery ; *Fractures, Bone ; *Hamate Bone ; Fingers ; Orthotic Devices ; Finger Joint/surgery ; *Finger Injuries/surgery ; Range of Motion, Articular ; *Joint Dislocations/surgery ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: This case report details the postsurgical rehabilitation and outcome of a 57-year old neurosurgeon who underwent hemi-hamate arthroplasty and volar plate repair for a complex ring finger proximal interphalangeal (PIP) fracture-dislocation sustained after a fall while snowboarding. Following re-rupture and repair of his volar plate, the patient was fitted for a "yoke" relative motion flexor orthosis, termed a JAY (Joint Active Yoke) orthosis, in a manner reverse to that which is commonly used for extensor-related injuries.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN/METHODS: A 57 yo right hand-dominant male who suffered a complex PIP fracture-dislocation with failed volar plate repair undwent hemi-hamate arthroplasty and early active motion following using a custom-fabricated joint active yoke orthosis.<br><br>PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The purpose of this study is to illustrate the benefits of this orthosis design in allowing for active controlled flexion of the repaired PIP joint with assist from the adjacent fingers, while also reducing joint torque and dorsal displacement forces.<br><br>RESULTS: A satisfactory active motion outcome was achieved with maintenance of PIP joint congruity allowing the patient to return to work as a neurosurgeon at 2-months post-operatively.<br><br>DISCUSSION: There is little published literature on the use of relative motion flexion orthoses following PIP injuries. Most current studies are isolated case reports on boutonniere deformity, flexor tendon repair, and closed reduction of PIP fractures. The following therapeutic intervention was considered an important contributor to a favorable functional outcome, as it minimized unwanted joint reaction forces in a complex PIP fracture-dislocation and unstable volar plate.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Future research with greater level of evidence is required to establish the various applications of relative motion flexion orthoses, as well as determine the appropriate time at which to place the patient in a relative motion orthosis following operative repair to prevent long-term stiffness and poor motion.}, }
@article {pmid36913550, year = {2023}, author = {Uemura, K and Okuda, K and Ueno, K and Kumegawa, S and Wada, Y and Asamura, S}, title = {The 'Invisible Lazy-T' Procedure for Correction of Medial Ectropion.}, journal = {The Journal of craniofacial surgery}, volume = {34}, number = {5}, pages = {1540-1542}, doi = {10.1097/SCS.0000000000009270}, pmid = {36913550}, issn = {1536-3732}, mesh = {Humans ; *Ectropion/surgery ; *Blepharoplasty/methods ; Eyelids/surgery ; Conjunctiva/surgery ; Microsurgery ; }, abstract = {No accepted standard for the correction of medial ectropion has been established. The most critical part of the surgical treatment for medial ectropion is the tightening of both horizontal and vertical laxity. To correct this ectropion, we have applied a combination procedure which includes tightening of the conjunctiva and the eyelid retractors (posterior lamellae) and the lateral tarsal strip procedure. Our imitation of the 'Lazy-T', a surgical operation performed on the medial ectropion, is tentatively named 'Invisible Lazy-T'. It is a versatile technique with a less visible scar than alternative techniques because skin incision is made along the crease line of the 'the crow's feet'. Results suggest a satisfactory solution to this problem and with better outcomes than by other techniques. We propose this novel combination technique is the best strategy for the medial ectropion, and it does not require specialized surgical skill, so ectropion can be managed by craniofacial surgeons.}, }
@article {pmid36909866, year = {2023}, author = {Aruan, RR and Hutabarat, H and Widodo, AA and Firdiyono, MTCC and Wirawanty, C and Fransiska, L}, title = {Double-blind, Randomized Trial on the Effectiveness of Acetylhexapeptide-3 Cream and Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 Cream for Crow's Feet.}, journal = {The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology}, volume = {16}, number = {2}, pages = {37-43}, pmid = {36909866}, issn = {1941-2789}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Crow's feet is one of the signs of skin aging. Many studies regarding skin aging have been carried out in Caucasians, as for Asians, there are different genotypes and phenotypes. Some anti-aging treatments carry a slightly higher risk of side effects and irritation in Asian skin. Currently, the use of topical active peptides for anti-aging, Acetylhexapeptide-3 (AHP-3) and Palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 (PPP-4), has been widely developed. This study aimed to investigate the anti-aging effects of AHP-3 and PPP-4 on the Asian patient with crow's feet.<br><br>METHODS: This study was a double-blind randomized trial using 21 Indonesian female subjects aged 26 to 55 years for eight weeks and divided into three groups: AHP-3 cream, PPP-4 cream, and placebo. The cream was applied twice daily to the periorbital area. The three groups were assessed using Corneometer, Tewameter, Cutometer, digital photography and Crow's Feet Grading Scale.<br><br>RESULTS: Based on clinical photos and data, improvements were found in several subjects using AHP-3 and PPP-4. PPP-4 appeared to demonstrate better results when compared to AHP-3 based on data, clinical photos, and self-assessment questionnaire.<br><br>CONCLUSION: PPP-4 demonstrated better results when compared to AHP-3 and placebo. This initial study provides an opportunity for further study with a more adequate number of samples and duration.}, }
@article {pmid36909864, year = {2023}, author = {Duteil, L and Queille-Roussel, C and Issa, H and Sukmansaya, N and Murray, J and Fanian, F}, title = {The Effects of a Non-crossed-linked Hyaluronic Acid Gel on the Aging Signs of the Face versus Normal Saline: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled, Split-faced Study.}, journal = {The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology}, volume = {16}, number = {2}, pages = {29-36}, pmid = {36909864}, issn = {1941-2789}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Skin bio-revitalization improves skin quality globally; it permits the rejuvenation of the skin by increasing hydration and by reconstructing an optimal physiological environment for the skin cells together with a micro-filling effect.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To assess the comparative efficacy of a non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid (NCHA) preparation (M-HA&#xae;10, FILLMED Laboratories, France) on fine lines reduction and on skin hydration, radiance and mechanical properties, after three sessions of multiple intradermal injections, active versus placebo, on the face of subjects presenting aging signs.<br><br>METHODS: Thirty healthy subjects received filler injections on one side and a control solution (saline) on the contralateral side of the face. Fine lines depth, skin hydration, and mechanical properties were evaluated using instrumental methods. Skin radiance, cheek fold and crow's feet were scored clinically. In addition, Investigator and subject satisfaction rates were evaluated by the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale and a subject self-assessment questionnaire.<br><br>RESULTS: Ten days after the last multi-injection session, the following significant results were observed compared to the control: a reduction of both crow's feet wrinkle depth (in the 110 to 1000&#xb5;m range, -10% for NCHA and +7% for control) and clinical scoring of cheek wrinkles, and increases in skin radiance and hydration (+35%) and also skin firmness (+27%). The Investigator found that NCHA either improved or much improved the aesthetic aspect on 82% of subjects whereas no improvement was found on the saline side. Subjects found that NCHA significantly reduced wrinkles and increased both skin firmness and elasticity.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Intradermal injection of NCHA can improve the quality of facial skin with aging signs by reducing fine wrinkles and improving hydration, firmness and radiance.}, }
@article {pmid36897629, year = {2023}, author = {}, title = {Erratum: Versatile Technique to Produce a Hierarchical Design in Nanoporous Gold.}, journal = {Journal of visualized experiments : JoVE}, volume = {}, number = {193}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3791/6544}, pmid = {36897629}, issn = {1940-087X}, abstract = {An erratum was issued for: Versatile Technique to Produce a Hierarchical Design in Nanoporous Gold. The Authors section was updated from: Palak Sondhi[1] Dharmendra Neupane[2] Jay K. Bhattarai[3] Hafsah Ali[1] Alexei V. Demchenko[4] Keith J. Stine[1] [1]Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Missouri-Saint Louis [2]Food and Drug Administration [3]Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals Company [4]Department of Chemistry, Saint Louis University to: Palak Sondhi[1] Dharmendra Neupane[1] Jay K. Bhattarai[2] Hafsah Ali[1] Alexei V. Demchenko[3] Keith J. Stine[1] [1]Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Missouri-Saint Louis [2]Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals Company [3]Department of Chemistry, Saint Louis University.}, }
@article {pmid36878625, year = {2023}, author = {Inumaru, M and Nakamura, K and Odagawa, T and Suzuki, M and Murata, K and Sato, Y}, title = {The first detection of avian haemosporidia from Culicoides biting midges in Japan, with notes on potential vector species and the transmission cycle.}, journal = {Veterinary parasitology, regional studies and reports}, volume = {39}, number = {}, pages = {100840}, doi = {10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100840}, pmid = {36878625}, issn = {2405-9390}, mesh = {Female ; Animals ; *Ceratopogonidae ; Japan/epidemiology ; Mosquito Vectors ; *Haemosporida/genetics ; Birds ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Biting midges (Ceratopogonidae) are capable of transmitting a variety of pathogens including viruses, trypanosomes and haemosporidia. The majority of Haemoproteus parasites are transmitted by biting midges predominantly of the genus Culicoides and are known to cause significant physical and reproductive impacts on both wild and domestic birds. In Japan, Haemoproteus had been detected from various avian hosts, but not from arthropod vectors. In this study, we investigated the prevalence of avian haemosporidia at an educational forest in central Japan in attempt to reveal possible vector species of Haemoproteus, which would help to better understand the transmission cycle of Haemoproteus within Japan and to develop preventative measures for captive and domestic birds.<br><br>METHODS: Biting midges were caught using UV light traps from 2016 to 2018. The collected samples were morphologically identified, and haemosporidian parasites were detected using PCR-based methods. The detected lineages were phylogenetically analyzed and compared with lineages previously detected from birds. Bloodmeal analyses were also carried out for part of the blood-fed individuals.<br><br>RESULTS: Six Haemoproteus lineages were detected from 17 of 1042 female Culicoides (1.63%), including three species (C. sigaensis, C. arakawae, and C. pictimargo) in which Haemoproteus was detected for the first time. All detected lineages were placed in the subgenus Parahaemoproteus clade and were previously detected from crows of central Japan, strongly suggesting that parasites of these genetic lineages are transmitted between Culicoides and crows. Two Plasmodium lineages were also detected but are thought to be transmitted between Culex mosquitoes and birds of the educational forest based on previous detections. No amplifications were seen in bloodmeal analysis, possibly due to insufficient amount of blood, denaturation via digestion, or insufficient detectability of the used protocol.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Haemoproteus DNA was detected from Culicoides for the first time in Japan, suggesting that transmission is possible within the country. These findings highlight the necessity to investigate Culicoides populations and Haemoproteus infections dynamics in Japan. However, vector competence could not be confirmed in this study and further studies are anticipated.}, }
@article {pmid36875397, year = {2023}, author = {Albrecht, L and Kaufeld, KA}, title = {Investigating the impact of environmental factors on West Nile virus human case prediction in Ontario, Canada.}, journal = {Frontiers in public health}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {1100543}, pmid = {36875397}, issn = {2296-2565}, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; Ontario ; *West Nile virus ; Bayes Theorem ; North America ; Climate Change ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus is the most common mosquito borne disease in North America and the leading cause of viral encephalitis. West Nile virus is primarily transmitted between birds and mosquitoes while humans are incidental, dead-end hosts. Climate change may increase the risk of human infections as climatic variables have been shown to affect the mosquito life cycle, biting rate, incubation period of the disease in mosquitoes, and bird migration patterns. We develop a zero-inflated Poisson model to investigate how human West Nile virus case counts vary with respect to mosquito abundance and infection rates, bird abundance, and other environmental covariates. We use a Bayesian paradigm to fit our model to data from 2010-2019 in Ontario, Canada. Our results show mosquito infection rate, temperature, precipitation, and crow abundance are positively correlated with human cases while NDVI and robin abundance are negatively correlated with human cases. We find the inclusion of spatial random effects allows for more accurate predictions, particularly in years where cases are higher. Our model is able to accurately predict the magnitude and timing of yearly West Nile virus outbreaks and could be a valuable tool for public health officials to implement prevention strategies to mitigate these outbreaks.}, }
@article {pmid36866972, year = {2023}, author = {Hewawasam, C and Wickramasinghe, A and Caldera, MC and Dassanayake, TL}, title = {Subclinical memory impairment in unaffected siblings of patients with dementia.}, journal = {The Clinical neuropsychologist}, volume = {37}, number = {8}, pages = {1669-1685}, doi = {10.1080/13854046.2023.2182832}, pmid = {36866972}, issn = {1744-4144}, abstract = {Objective: Family history of dementia is a known risk factor for dementia. The cognitive performance of unaffected siblings of dementia patients has been poorly studied. We aimed to determine whether clinically unaffected siblings of dementia patients have significant cognitive impairment compared to individuals who do not have first-degree relatives with dementia. Methods: We compared the cognitive performance of 67 patients with dementia (24 males; mean age 69.5), 90 healthy siblings of those patients (34 males; mean age 61.56) and 92 healthy adults (35 males; mean age 60.96) who have no first-degree relatives with dementia. We assessed learning and memory (Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT)), short-term/working memory (Digit Span) executive functions (Stroop Test) and general intelligence (Raven Progressive Matrices). Test scores were compared among three groups, with regression-based adjustments for age, sex, and education. Results: As expected, the patients with dementia were impaired in all cognitive domains. In the Sibling Group, RAVLT total learning was significantly lower compared to controls (B = -3.192, p = .005). In a subgroup analysis, compared to controls, RAVLT delayed recall was poorer in the siblings of patients with early-onset (<65 years) dementia. No significant differences were observed in other cognitive domains. Conclusion: Clinically unaffected siblings of dementia patients seem to have a selective subclinical impairment in memory encoding. This impairment seems to be more prominent in siblings of patients with early-onset dementia who also have deficits in delayed recall. Future studies are needed to determine if the observed cognitive impairment deteriorates to dementia.}, }
@article {pmid36866135, year = {2022}, author = {Asokan, S and Pr, GP and Mathiazhagan, T and Viswanath, S}, title = {Association between Intelligence Quotient Dental Anxiety and Oral Health-related Quality of Life in Children: A Cross-sectional Study.}, journal = {International journal of clinical pediatric dentistry}, volume = {15}, number = {6}, pages = {745-749}, pmid = {36866135}, issn = {0974-7052}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Determining the intelligence quotient (IQ) grades of children help in managing dental anxiety (DA) and maintaining the good oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL).<br><br>AIM: To assess the association between IQ, DA, and OHRQoL in children aged 10-11 years.<br><br>DESIGN: This cross-sectional study was carried out among 202 children aged 10-11 years in the Southern part of Tamil Nadu, India. The IQ level, DA, and OHRQoL were measured using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM), Children's Fear Survey Schedule-Dental Subscale (CFSS-DS), and Child Oral Health Impact Profile Short Form (COHIP-SF) 19, respectively. Chi-squared test and Spearman rank order correlation test were used for analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: The results revealed a significant negative correlation (p < 0.05; r = -0.239) between IQ and OHRQoL. DA was negatively correlated with IQ (r = -0.093) and OHRQoL (r = -0.065), but it was not statistically significant. The gender-based comparison revealed no significant difference in the distribution of girls and boys within different grades of IQ levels (p = 0.74), DA (p = 0.29), and OHRQoL (p = 0.85).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Children with higher IQ showed low OHRQoL scores. DA was negatively correlated with IQ and OHRQoL.<br><br>HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Asokan S, PR GP, Mathiazhagan T, et al. Association between Intelligence Quotient Dental Anxiety and Oral Health-related Quality of Life in Children: A Cross-sectional Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(6):745-749.}, }
@article {pmid38692588, year = {2023}, author = {Kantha, SS}, title = {Suicides of elite Japanese writers: The case of Ryunosuke Akutagawa.}, journal = {The National medical journal of India}, volume = {36}, number = {2}, pages = {117-123}, doi = {10.25259/NMJI_389_22}, pmid = {38692588}, issn = {2583-150X}, mesh = {Humans ; *Suicide/history/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Japan/epidemiology ; History, 20th Century ; History, 19th Century ; Famous Persons ; Male ; East Asian People ; }, abstract = {Background . To mark the 130th birth anniversary of Japanese writer Ryunosuke Akutagawa (1892-1927), I revisit his suicide (as recorded by his hand) in comparison to that of his junior contemporaries, who also chose a similar mode of death. Data sources . Two works of Akutagawa, namely Tenkibo (1926: Death Register) and Aru Ahono Issho (1927: The Life of a Stupid Man) in English translation of Jay Rubin were used as the main sources, in addition to published literature about his creativity. Results . In his final work, The Life of a Stupid Man, completed in the penultimate month before suicide, 7 among the 51 brief descriptions, Akutagawa had described his thoughts on illness and death, in addition to visiting his biological mother in a lunatic asylum, and studying a cadaver for his famous short story 'Rashomon'. These descriptions offer a fascinating perspective on Akutagawa's state of mind, before his suicide. Akutagawa's suicide is also compared with the suicides of five other renowned Japanese writers (Osamu Dazai, Yasunari Kawabata, Misuzu Kaneko, Yukio Mishima and Juzo Itami). Conclusion . Before his suicide, doctors offered Akutagawa various diagnoses: 'insomnia, gastric hyperacidity, gastric atony, dry pleurisy, neurasthenia, chronic conjunctivitis, brain fatigue'. Though it is uncertain, what percentage of hereditary factor(s) played a role, why the practitioners of the medical profession in 1920s Japan failed to save the life of this creative individual still remains a question.}, }
@article {pmid36848446, year = {2023}, author = {Harper, MG}, title = {Informal Power: A Key to Nursing Professional Development Influence.}, journal = {Journal for nurses in professional development}, volume = {39}, number = {2}, pages = {104-106}, pmid = {36848446}, issn = {2169-981X}, mesh = {Humans ; *Leadership ; *Nurse Practitioners ; }, abstract = {Most nursing professional development practitioners do not have formal power that results from being in a leadership position in their organization. As a result, they must optimize their influence through referent, expert, and informational power as described by French and Raven (1959). This column provides actionable recommendations for nursing professional development practitioners to expand their influence in their organizations.}, }
@article {pmid36847022, year = {2023}, author = {Bootsma, JN and Campbell, F and McCauley, D and Hopmans, S and Grahovac, D and Cunningham, BJ and Phoenix, M and de Camargo, OK and Geytenbeek, J and Gorter, JW}, title = {Psychometric properties of the English language version of the C-BiLLT evaluated in typically developing Canadian children.}, journal = {Journal of pediatric rehabilitation medicine}, volume = {16}, number = {1}, pages = {71-81}, pmid = {36847022}, issn = {1875-8894}, mesh = {Humans ; Child ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; Pandemics ; *COVID-19 ; Canada ; Language ; *Cerebral Palsy ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: This study aimed to 1) investigate the convergent and discriminant validity, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability of the Canadian English version of the Computer-Based instrument for Low motor Language Testing (C-BiLLT-CAN), and 2) explore feasibility of the C-BiLLT assessment for children with cerebral palsy (CP) and complex communication needs in the Canadian health care context.<br><br>METHODS: Eighty typically developing children between 1.5 and 8.5 years of age completed the C-BiLLT-CAN, the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-IV (PPVT-4), the receptive language sub-test of the New Reynell Developmental Language Scales (NRDLS), and/or the Raven's 2. Correlations between raw scores were calculated for estimates of convergent and discriminant validity. Internal consistency was calculated for all items and separately for items pertaining to vocabulary and grammar. To calculate the standard error of measurement (SEM) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), 33 participants were re-tested with the C-BiLLT within three weeks. Feasibility was explored with nine participants with CP.<br><br>RESULTS: C-BiLLT-CAN's convergent validity was good to excellent (Spearman's rho&#x200a;>&#x200a;0.78) and discriminant validity was higher than hypothesized (Spearman's rho&#x200a;>&#x200a;0.8). Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha&#x200a;=&#x200a;0.96), test-retest reliability (ICC&#x200a;>&#x200a;0.9), and measurement error (SEM&#x200a;<&#x200a;5%) were excellent. The feasibility study could not be fully completed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Preliminary data demonstrated some technical and practical barriers for using the C-BiLLT in children with CP in Canada.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The C-BiLLT-CAN showed good to excellent psychometric properties in a sample of typically developing children, indicating that it is an adequate test for measuring language comprehension in English-speaking Canadian children. Further research is needed to investigate the feasibility of the C-BiLLT-CAN in children with CP.}, }
@article {pmid36842286, year = {2023}, author = {Covey, TJ and Shucard, JL and Wang, X and Gregory, MA and Shucard, DW}, title = {Cognitive skill learning in multiple sclerosis: A meaningful component of the neuropsychological profile.}, journal = {Brain and cognition}, volume = {166}, number = {}, pages = {105959}, doi = {10.1016/j.bandc.2023.105959}, pmid = {36842286}, issn = {1090-2147}, mesh = {Humans ; *Multiple Sclerosis/psychology ; *Cognition Disorders ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnosis ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Cognition ; }, abstract = {Cognitive skill learning (CSL) refers to the capacity to improve performance on specific cognitive operations through repeated practice. We hypothesized that high CSL aptitude may promote accumulation of cognitive reserve, and resiliency to cognitive decline, in people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Using an adaptive working memory training paradigm, we obtained CSL aptitude indices (amount of improvement on the training task over time) in MS patients for a single session of practice (25-30 min), and longer-term practice (twenty sessions). Neuropsychological performance was assessed with the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT), and the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM). CSL aptitude measures were positively correlated with neuropsychological performance, and had high diagnostic accuracy for classifying cognitive impairment in MS, defined as 1.5 SD below the demographics-corrected normative mean of the SDMT. Positive relationships between CSL aptitude measures and neuropsychological performance tended to be more pronounced for individuals with high estimated cognitive reserve, suggesting that high CSL aptitude is a a factor that promotes the protective effects of cognitive reserve. Furthermore, regression analyses indicated that CSL aptitude is separable from baseline cognitive capacity. The findings suggest that CSL aptitude impacts the neuropsychological profile in MS, and may be a factor underlying variance in cognitive resiliency.}, }
@article {pmid36831812, year = {2023}, author = {Alhamdan, AA and Murphy, MJ and Pickering, HE and Crewther, SG}, title = {The Contribution of Visual and Auditory Working Memory and Non-Verbal IQ to Motor Multisensory Processing in Elementary School Children.}, journal = {Brain sciences}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {36831812}, issn = {2076-3425}, abstract = {Although cognitive abilities have been shown to facilitate multisensory processing in adults, the development of cognitive abilities such as working memory and intelligence, and their relationship to multisensory motor reaction times (MRTs), has not been well investigated in children. Thus, the aim of the current study was to explore the contribution of age-related cognitive abilities in elementary school-age children (n = 75) aged 5-10 years, to multisensory MRTs in response to auditory, visual, and audiovisual stimuli, and a visuomotor eye-hand co-ordination processing task. Cognitive performance was measured on classical working memory tasks such as forward and backward visual and auditory digit spans, and the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM test of nonverbal intelligence). Bayesian Analysis revealed decisive evidence for age-group differences across grades on visual digit span tasks and RCPM scores but not on auditory digit span tasks. The results also showed decisive evidence for the relationship between performance on more complex visually based tasks, such as difficult items of the RCPM and visual digit span, and multisensory MRT tasks. Bayesian regression analysis demonstrated that visual WM digit span tasks together with nonverbal IQ were the strongest unique predictors of multisensory processing. This suggests that the capacity of visual memory rather than auditory processing abilities becomes the most important cognitive predictor of multisensory MRTs, and potentially contributes to the expected age-related increase in cognitive abilities and multisensory motor processing.}, }
@article {pmid36831728, year = {2023}, author = {Pavlinac Dodig, I and Qazzafi, A and Lusic Kalcina, L and Demirovic, S and Pecotic, R and Valic, M and Dogas, Z}, title = {The Associations between Results in Different Domains of Cognitive and Psychomotor Abilities Measured in Medical Students.}, journal = {Brain sciences}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {36831728}, issn = {2076-3425}, abstract = {We aimed to investigate the associations between intelligence quotient test scores obtained using the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM) and psychomotor testing using the Complex Reactionmeter Drenovac (CRD) test battery, while taking into account previous theoretical approaches recognizing intelligent behavior as the cumulative result of a general biological speed factor reflected in the reaction time for perceptual detections and motor decisions. A total of 224 medical students at the University of Split School of Medicine were recruited. Their IQ scores were assessed using Raven's APM, while the computerized tests of CRD-series were used for testing the reaction time of perception to visual stimulus (CRD311), psychomotor limbs coordination task (CRD411), and solving simple arithmetic operations (CRD11). The total test-solving (TTST) and the minimum single-task-solving (MinT) times were analyzed. On the CRD11 test, task-solving times were shorter in students with higher APM scores (r = -0.48 for TTST and r = -0.44 for MinT; p < 0.001 for both). Negative associations between task-solving times and APM scores were reported on CRD311 (r = -0.30 for TTST and r = -0.33 for MinT, p < 0.001 for both). Negative associations between task-solving times in CRD411 and APM scores (r = -0.40 for TTST and r = -0.30 for MinT, p < 0.001 for both) were found. Faster reaction time in psychomotor limbs coordination tasks, the reaction time of perception to visual stimulus, and the reaction time of solving simple arithmetic operations were associated with a higher APM score in medical students, indicating the importance of mental speed in intelligence test performance. However, executive system functions, such as attention, planning, and goal weighting, might also impact cognitive abilities and should be considered in future research.}, }
@article {pmid36830362, year = {2023}, author = {Skibniewska, EM and Skibniewski, M}, title = {The Total Mercury Concentration in Organs of Eurasian Magpies (Pica pica) and Common Woodpigeons (Columba palumbus) from the Warsaw Municipal Area.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {13}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {36830362}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {Mercury is a toxic element widely distributed in the natural environment, affecting animals' health. It is released into the environment from both natural and anthropogenic sources. The present study analyzed the mercury concentrations in liver, kidney, heart and muscle tissue in two species of birds from the Warsaw area, which were used as bioindicators of local environmental pollution with this metal. The mercury content in the examined samples was determined using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) utilizing automatic mercury analyzer type AMA 254. The highest mercury content was found in the body of Eurasian magpies, in which it was 0.025; 0.021; 0.006; 0.0037 and 0.029 mg kg[-1] of tissue wet weight for kidney, liver, heart, thigh muscles and pectoral muscles, respectively. In the case of common woodpigeons, the content of this metal was significantly lower, amounting to 0.007; 0.005; 0.002; 0.001 and 0.001 mg∙kg[-1] wet weight for kidney, liver, heart, thigh muscles and pectoral muscles, respectively. In light of data from the available literature, the values obtained should be considered low, not causing a risk to animal health. The results obtained indicate low environmental exposure to this element.}, }
@article {pmid36821443, year = {2023}, author = {Brecht, KF and Westendorff, S and Nieder, A}, title = {Neural correlates of cognitively controlled vocalizations in a corvid songbird.}, journal = {Cell reports}, volume = {42}, number = {3}, pages = {112113}, doi = {10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112113}, pmid = {36821443}, issn = {2211-1247}, mesh = {Animals ; *Songbirds ; Executive Function ; Neurons/physiology ; Telencephalon/physiology ; Cerebral Cortex ; Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {The neuronal basis of the songbird's song system is well understood. However, little is known about the neuronal correlates of the executive control of songbird vocalizations. Here, we record single-unit activity from the pallial endbrain region "nidopallium caudolaterale" (NCL) of crows that vocalize to the presentation of a visual go-cue but refrain from vocalizing during trials without a go-cue. We find that the preparatory activity of single vocalization-correlated neurons, but also of the entire population of NCL neurons, before vocal onset predicts whether or not the crows will produce an instructed vocalization. Fluctuations in baseline neuronal activity prior to the go-cue influence the premotor activity of such vocalization-correlated neurons and seemingly bias the crows' decision to vocalize. Neuronal response modulation significantly differs between volitional and task-unrelated vocalizations. This suggests that the NCL can take control over the vocal motor network during the production of volitional vocalizations in a corvid songbird.}, }
@article {pmid36819998, year = {2023}, author = {Baciadonna, L and Cornero, FM and Clayton, NS and Emery, NJ}, title = {Mirror stimulation in Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius).}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {e14729}, pmid = {36819998}, issn = {2167-8359}, mesh = {Animals ; Horses ; *Songbirds ; Social Behavior ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; *Elephants ; Pan troglodytes ; }, abstract = {Mirror exposure elicits a wide range of behavioral responses, some of which have been considered as part of possible evidence of mirror self-recognition (MSR). These responses can range from social behaviors, indicating that an animal considers its own reflection as a conspecific, to mirror-guided and self-directed actions. Evidence of MSR has been found categorically in only a few species, such as in magpies, chimpanzees, horses, and elephants. Evidence in corvids is currently debated due to inconsistent findings. In this study, we investigated the reaction of Eurasian jays when presenting them with three mirror-stimulation tasks. Based on the overall behavioral patterns across these three tasks, conclusions about birds' understanding of a reflective surface, and their perception of the reflection as either themselves or as a conspecific, appear premature. We highlight how the high neophobia of corvids and other methodological constraints might have hindered the likelihood to approach and explore a mirror, preventing the emergence of behaviors typically associated with MSR. Furthermore, we discuss how motivational factors, methodological constraints and species differences should be considered when interpreting behavioral responses to mirrors.}, }
@article {pmid36818533, year = {2023}, author = {Tomasek, M and Ravignani, A and Boucherie, PH and Van Meyel, S and Dufour, V}, title = {Spontaneous vocal coordination of vocalizations to water noise in rooks (Corvus frugilegus): An exploratory study.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {e9791}, pmid = {36818533}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {The ability to control one's vocal production is a major advantage in acoustic communication. Yet, not all species have the same level of control over their vocal output. Several bird species can interrupt their song upon hearing an external stimulus, but there is no evidence how flexible this behavior is. Most research on corvids focuses on their cognitive abilities, but few studies explore their vocal aptitudes. Recent research shows that crows can be experimentally trained to vocalize in response to a brief visual stimulus. Our study investigated vocal control abilities with a more ecologically embedded approach in rooks. We show that two rooks could spontaneously coordinate their vocalizations to a long-lasting stimulus (the sound of their small bathing pool being filled with a water hose), one of them adjusting roughly (in the second range) its vocalizations as the stimuli began and stopped. This exploratory study adds to the literature showing that corvids, a group of species capable of cognitive prowess, are indeed able to display good vocal control abilities.}, }
@article {pmid36808478, year = {2023}, author = {Murphy, P and Foley, J and Mole, J and Van Harskamp, N and Cipolotti, L}, title = {Lifespan normative data (18-89 years) for Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices Set I.}, journal = {Journal of neuropsychology}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {417-429}, doi = {10.1111/jnp.12308}, pmid = {36808478}, issn = {1748-6653}, mesh = {Humans ; Aged ; *Longevity ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Aging ; Cognition ; }, abstract = {Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM) Set I is a validated and brief test of fluid intelligence, ideal for use in busy clinical settings. However, there is a dearth of normative data allowing an accurate interpretation of APM scores. To address this, we present normative data from across the adult lifespan (18-89 years) for the APM Set I. Data are presented in five age cohorts (total N = 352), including two older adult cohorts (65-79 years and 80-89 years), which allows age-standardized assessment. We also present data from a validated measure of premorbid intellectual ability, which was absent from previous standardizations of longer forms of the APM. In line with previous findings, a striking age-related decline was noted, beginning relatively early in adulthood and most marked amongst lower-scoring individuals. Older adults did not demonstrate difficulty with specific test items or make an increased proportion of specific errors. Sex was not a significant predictor of performance. The data set is of particular use in the neuropsychological assessment of older adults, given the known susceptibility of fluid intelligence to both the effects of normal ageing and acquired brain injury in older age. The results are discussed in light of theories of neurological ageing.}, }
@article {pmid36806418, year = {2023}, author = {Wagener, L and Rinnert, P and Veit, L and Nieder, A}, title = {Crows protect visual working memory against interference.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {226}, number = {5}, pages = {}, pmid = {36806418}, issn = {1477-9145}, mesh = {Animals ; *Memory, Short-Term ; *Crows ; Cognition ; Behavior, Animal ; Fenbendazole ; }, abstract = {Working memory, the ability to actively maintain and manipulate information across time, is key to intelligent behavior. Because of the limited capacity of working memory, relevant information needs to be protected against distracting representations. Whether birds can resist distractors and safeguard memorized relevant information is unclear. We trained carrion crows in a delayed match-to-sample task to memorize an image while resisting other, interfering stimuli. We found that the repetition of the sample stimulus during the memory delay improved performance accuracy and accelerated reaction time relative to a reference condition with a neutral interfering stimulus. In contrast, the presentation of the image that constituted the subsequent non-match test stimulus mildly weakened performance. However, the crows' robust performance in this most demanding distractor condition indicates that sample information was actively protected from being overwritten by the distractor. These data show that crows can cognitively control and safeguard behaviorally relevant working memory contents.}, }
@article {pmid36792669, year = {2023}, author = {Hur, MS and Iwanaga, J and Tubbs, RS and Moon, YS and Kim, H}, title = {Width of the orbicularis oculi fibers extending to the upper lip with the lateral and inferior lengths of the orbicularis oculi at the lateral canthus level: application to botulinum neurotoxin type A injection for crow's feet.}, journal = {Surgical and radiologic anatomy : SRA}, volume = {45}, number = {4}, pages = {461-468}, pmid = {36792669}, issn = {1279-8517}, support = {2020R1C1C1003237//National Research Foundation of Kortea/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; *Skin Aging ; Lip ; *Lacrimal Apparatus ; Facial Muscles ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to determine the width of the fibers that extend from the orbicularis oculi muscle (OOc) to the upper lip, and the lateral and inferior lengths of the OOc at the lateral canthus level.<br><br>METHODS: The OOc was investigated in the 40 hemifaces of 20 Korean cadavers. The lateral fibers of the OOc (OOc lat) were traced to determine whether or not these fibers extended to the upper lip.<br><br>RESULTS: The OOc lat extended to the upper lip at the lateral canthus level in 31 of the 40 specimens (77.5%), whereas some inferolateral fibers of the OOc that extended to the upper lip were observed near the level of the lower margin of the OOc in the other 9 specimens (22.5%). The mean&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;SD and maximum widths of the OOc lat that extended to the upper lip at the lateral canthus level were 6.9&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;3.3&#xa0;mm and 14.3&#xa0;mm, respectively.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The obtained data will be helpful to distinguish the muscles that underly the wrinkles around the lateral canthus for safer and more-efficient&#xa0;BoNT-A treatments for crow's feet.}, }
@article {pmid36766361, year = {2023}, author = {Marks, CA and Allen, L and Lindeberg, H}, title = {Non-Lethal Dose-Response Models Replace Lethal Bioassays for Predicting the Hazard of Para-Aminopropiophenone to Australian Wildlife.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {13}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {36766361}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {Para-aminopropiophenone (PAPP) is a potent methaemoglobin (MetHb) forming agent used for the lethal control of exotic carnivores and mustelids. To assess the sensitivity of Australian wildlife to PAPP we developed an in vivo assay that did not use death as an endpoint. Sub-lethal dose-response data were modelled to predict PAPP doses required to achieve an endpoint set at 80% MetHb (MetHb80). The comparative sensitivity of non-target mammals referenced to this endpoint was found to be highly variable, with southern brown bandicoots (Isoodon obesulus) the most sensitive species (MetHb80 = 6.3 mg kg[-1]) and bush rats (Rattus fuscipes) the most tolerant (MetHb80 = 1035 mg kg[-1]). Published LD50 estimates were highly correlated with PAPP doses modelled to achieve the MetHb80 endpoint (r[2] = 0.99, p < 0.001). Most dose-response data for native mammals were collected in the field or in semi-natural enclosures, permitting PAPP and placebo dosed animals to be fitted with tracking transmitters and transponders and released at their point of capture. A protracted morbidity and mortality was observed only in Australian ravens (Corvus coronoides). The combination of sub-lethal dose-response assay and survival data collected in the field provided more relevant information about the actual hazard of pest control agents to non-target wildlife species than laboratory-based lethal-dose bioassays. We discuss the need to replace lethal-dose data with biologically meaningful insights able to define a continuum of toxicological hazards that better serve the needs of conservation and veterinary scientists and wildlife managers.}, }
@article {pmid36762604, year = {2023}, author = {Zhai, N and Pan, X and Zeng, M and Xu, L}, title = {Developmental trajectory of pluripotent stem cell establishment in Arabidopsis callus guided by a quiescent center-related gene network.}, journal = {Development (Cambridge, England)}, volume = {150}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1242/dev.200879}, pmid = {36762604}, issn = {1477-9129}, support = {32225007//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; XDB27030103//Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences/ ; XDB27030103//Chinese Academy of Sciences/ ; //Chinese Academy of Sciences/ ; }, mesh = {*Arabidopsis/genetics ; *Arabidopsis Proteins/metabolism ; Gene Regulatory Networks ; Plant Roots/metabolism ; *Pluripotent Stem Cells/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Meristem/metabolism ; }, abstract = {In plant tissue culture, callus formation is induced by a high auxin concentration. Among the three cell layers (the outer, middle and inner cell layers) of the callus, pluripotency acquisition in the middle cell layer is required for the potential ability of the callus to regenerate organs. Here, we reveal the developmental trajectory of middle cell layer initiation and maintenance in callus tissue originating from Arabidopsis thaliana hypocotyls. The S phase of the cell cycle is essential for the expression of quiescent center-related SCARECROW (SCR), PLETHORA1 (PLT1) and WUSCHEL-RELATED HOMEOBOX5 (WOX5) genes during the division of callus founder cells to initiate the callus primordium. After callus initiation, SHOOT-ROOT (SHR) proteins move from the inner to the middle cell layer and act together with SCR to promote the expression of PLT1 and WOX5. WOX5 represses the expression of VASCULAR-RELATED NAC-DOMAIN (VND) genes, thereby preventing callus tissue from differentiating into xylem cells. PLT1 and PLT2 directly activate JACKDAW (JKD), which is necessary for pluripotency acquisition in the middle cell layer. We hypothesize that the middle cell layer could have pluripotent stem cell activity and its establishment requires the quiescent center-related SCR-SHR-WOX5-PLT1/2-JKD gene network.}, }
@article {pmid36761608, year = {2022}, author = {Chu, C and Lu, Y and Yao, Z and Li, S}, title = {A survey of ctenid spiders (Araneae, Ctenidae) from Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Yunnan, China.}, journal = {Biodiversity data journal}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {e87597}, pmid = {36761608}, issn = {1314-2828}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Amauropelma Raven, Stumkat &amp; Gray, 2001 currently contains 24 species. It is distributed in Australia, India, Indonesia, Laos and Malaysia. This genus has not been found in China. Ctenus Walckenaer, 1805 comprises 213 known species. This genus is distributed worldwide. Currently, only two species, Ctenuslishuqiang Jäger, 2012 and Ctenusyaeyamensis Yoshida, 1998 are known to occur in China.<br><br>NEW INFORMATION: Three new species of ctenid spiders are described from Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden in Yunnan Province, China: Amauropelmayunnan sp. nov., Ctenusbanna sp. nov. and Ctenusyulin sp. nov. Amauropelma and Ctenusrobustus Thorell, 1897 are reported from China for the first time.}, }
@article {pmid36747638, year = {2023}, author = {Frank, DT and Byas, AD and Murrieta, R and Weger-Lucarelli, J and Rückert, C and Gallichotte, E and Yoshimoto, JA and Allen, C and Bosco-Lauth, AM and Graham, B and Felix, TA and Brault, A and Ebel, GD}, title = {Intracellular diversity of WNV within circulating avian peripheral blood mononuclear cells reveals host-dependent patterns of polyinfection.}, journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {36747638}, issn = {2692-8205}, support = {F31 AI134108/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI067380/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; T32 OD010437/OD/NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Error-prone replication of RNA viruses generates the genetic diversity required for adaptation within rapidly changing environments. Thus, arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) populations exist in nature as mutant swarms that are maintained between arthropods and vertebrates. Previous studies have demonstrated that West Nile virus (WNV) population dynamics are host dependent: In American crows, which experience extremely high viremia, purifying selection is weak and population diversity is high compared to American robins, which have 100 to 1000-fold lower viremia. WNV passed in robins experiences fitness gains, whereas that passed in crows does not. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that high crow viremia allows higher genetic diversity within individual avian peripheral-blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), reasoning that this could have produced the previously observed host-specific differences in genetic diversity and fitness. Specifically, we infected cells and birds with a novel, barcoded version of WNV and sequenced viral RNA from single cells to quantify the number of WNV barcodes that each contained. Our results demonstrate that the richness of WNV populations within crows far exceeds that in robins. Similarly, rare WNV variants were maintained by crows more frequently than by robins. Our results suggest that increased viremia in crows relative to robins leads to maintenance of defective genomes and less prevalent variants, presumably through complementation. Our findings further suggest that weaker purifying selection in highly susceptible crows is attributable to this higher viremia, polyinfections and complementation. These studies further document the role of particular, ecologically relevant hosts in shaping virus population structure.<br><br>AUTHOR SUMMARY: WNV mutational diversity in vertebrates is species-dependent. In crows, low frequency variants are common, and viral populations are more diverse. In robins, fewer mutations become permanent fixtures of the overall viral population. We infected crows, robins and a chicken cell line with a genetically marked (barcoded) WNV. Higher levels of virus led to multiple unique WNV genomes infecting individual cells, even when a genotype was present at low levels in the input viral stock. Our findings suggest that higher levels of circulating virus in natural hosts allow less fit viruses to survive in RNA virus populations through complementation by more fit viruses. This is significant as it allows less represented and less fit viruses to be maintained at low levels until they potentially emerge when virus environments change. Overall our data reveal new insights on the relationships between host susceptibility to high viremia and virus evolution.}, }
@article {pmid36746831, year = {2023}, author = {Egede, LE and Walker, RJ and Campbell, JA and Linde, S and Hawks, LC and Burgess, KM}, title = {Modern Day Consequences of Historic Redlining: Finding a Path Forward.}, journal = {Journal of general internal medicine}, volume = {38}, number = {6}, pages = {1534-1537}, pmid = {36746831}, issn = {1525-1497}, support = {K24 DK093699/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; K01 DK131319/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DK120861/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; K23 DK132505/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MD013826/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DK118038/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Racism ; Residence Characteristics ; Ethnicity ; }, abstract = {There is emerging evidence that structural racism is a major contributor to poor health outcomes for ethnic minorities. Structural racism captures upstream historic racist events (such as slavery, black code, and Jim Crow laws) and more recent state-sanctioned racist laws in the form of redlining. Redlining refers to the practice of systematically denying various services (e.g., credit access) to residents of specific neighborhoods, often based on race/ethnicity and primarily within urban communities. Historical redlining is linked to increased risk of diabetes, hypertension, and early mortality due to heart disease with evidence suggesting it impacts health through suppressing economic opportunity and human capital, or the knowledge, skills, and value one contributes to society. Addressing structural racism has been a rallying call for change in recent years-drawing attention to the racialized impact of historical policies in the USA. Unfortunately, the enormous scope of work has also left people feeling incapable of effecting the very change they seek. This paper highlights a path forward by briefly discussing the origins of historical redlining, highlighting the modern-day consequences both on health and at the societal level, and suggest promising initiatives to address the impact.}, }
@article {pmid36743222, year = {2022}, author = {Gao, L and Zhang, X and Yang, T and Wang, S and Wang, Q and Liu, F and Zhu, Z and Zi, S and Du, B}, title = {Conspecific nest-raiding directs more at dominant breeders in the azure-winged magpie.}, journal = {Current zoology}, volume = {68}, number = {6}, pages = {734-736}, pmid = {36743222}, issn = {1674-5507}, }
@article {pmid36742982, year = {2023}, author = {Goraichuk, IV and Gerilovych, A and Bolotin, V and Solodiankin, O and Dimitrov, KM and Rula, O and Muzyka, N and Mezinov, O and Stegniy, B and Kolesnyk, O and Pantin-Jackwood, MJ and Miller, PJ and Afonso, CL and Muzyka, D}, title = {Genetic diversity of Newcastle disease viruses circulating in wild and synanthropic birds in Ukraine between 2006 and 2015.}, journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {1026296}, pmid = {36742982}, issn = {2297-1769}, abstract = {Newcastle disease virus (NDV) infects a wide range of bird species worldwide and is of importance to the poultry industry. Although certain virus genotypes are clearly associated with wild bird species, the role of those species in the movement of viruses and the migratory routes they follow is still unclear. In this study, we performed a phylogenetic analysis of nineteen NDV sequences that were identified among 21,924 samples collected from wild and synanthropic birds from different regions of Ukraine from 2006 to 2015 and compared them with isolates from other continents. In synanthropic birds, NDV strains of genotype II, VI, VII, and XXI of class II were detected. The fusion gene sequences of these strains were similar to strains detected in birds from different geographical regions of Europe and Asia. However, it is noteworthy to mention the isolation of vaccine viruses from synanthropic birds, suggesting the possibility of their role in viral transmission from vaccinated poultry to wild birds, which may lead to the further spreading of vaccine viruses into other regions during wild bird migration. Moreover, here we present the first publicly available complete NDV F gene from a crow (genus Corvus). Additionally, our phylogenetic results indicated a possible connection of Ukrainian NDV isolates with genotype XXI strains circulating in Kazakhstan. Among strains from wild birds, NDVs of genotype 1 of class I and genotype I of class II were detected. The phylogenetic analysis highlighted the possible exchange of these NDV strains between wild waterfowl from the Azov-Black Sea region of Ukraine and waterfowl from different continents, including Europe, Asia, and Africa.}, }
@article {pmid36727033, year = {2023}, author = {Lee, WW and Fagien, S and Murdock, J and Bell, M and Widgerow, AD}, title = {A Multi-Center Evaluation of Restorative Eye Treatment and INhance With Trihex Technology to Improve Aesthetic Outcomes When Used Pre- and Post-Blepharoplasty.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal. Open forum}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {ojac089}, pmid = {36727033}, issn = {2631-4797}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Restorative Eye Treatment with TriHex Technology (RET) is a topical eye product with peptides and botanicals that reduce the appearance of crow's feet, under-eye bags, and dark circles. INhance with TriHex Technology (IH) is a topical product that has been clinically proven to accelerate the clearance of bruises and aid in the reduction of swelling. TriHex Technology has been shown to regenerate collagen and elastin.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: Evaluate the use of RET compared to a bland moisturizer prior to blepharoplasty and the bilateral use of INhance postoperatively.<br><br>METHODS: Blepharoplasty patients were randomized to use either RET or a bland moisturizer, twice daily, on the designated periocular skin for 4 weeks prior to the procedure. Postoperatively, participants applied IH bilaterally, at least 4 times a day, and returned for follow-up on Days 1 or 3, 7, and 14. The removed upper-eyelid skin (13 patients) underwent independent dermatopathological evaluation.<br><br>RESULTS: Investigators noted no differences in peri-operative complications but observed faster improvement in swelling, bruising, discomfort on the treated side. 85% of participants had less edema and bruising on the RET pretreated side. Biopsy results revealed improved extracellular matrix appearance on the RET pretreated side. Participants agreed that IH alleviated their swelling and noted that their skin felt and appeared more hydrated.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: A regimen designed for eyelid surgery employing a pretreatment product component and a post treatment product appear to have a positive impact on measured outcomes in blepharoplasty patients including effects on bruising, swelling and patient comfort.}, }
@article {pmid36722171, year = {2023}, author = {Walsh, SL and Engesser, S and Townsend, SW and Ridley, AR}, title = {Multi-level combinatoriality in magpie non-song vocalizations.}, journal = {Journal of the Royal Society, Interface}, volume = {20}, number = {199}, pages = {20220679}, pmid = {36722171}, issn = {1742-5662}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; *Knowledge ; *Language ; Phenotype ; Sound ; }, abstract = {Comparative studies conducted over the past few decades have provided important insights into the capacity for animals to combine vocal segments at either one of two levels: within- or between-calls. There remains, however, a distinct gap in knowledge as to whether animal combinatoriality can extend beyond one level. Investigating this requires a comprehensive analysis of the combinatorial features characterizing a species' vocal system. Here, we used a nonlinear dimensionality reduction analysis and sequential transition analysis to quantitatively describe the non-song combinatorial repertoire of the Western Australian magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen dorsalis). We found that (i) magpies recombine four distinct acoustic segments to create a larger number of calls, and (ii) the resultant calls are further combined into larger call combinations. Our work demonstrates two levels in the combining of magpie vocal units. These results are incongruous with the notion that a capacity for multi-level combinatoriality is unique to human language, wherein the combining of meaningless sounds and meaningful words interactively occurs across different combinatorial levels. Our study thus provides novel insights into the combinatorial capacities of a non-human species, adding to the growing evidence of analogues of language-specific traits present in the animal kingdom.}, }
@article {pmid36720748, year = {2023}, author = {Hunt, GR and Villard, P}, title = {Oscillatory extraction behaviour suggests functional attributes of crows' hooked-stick tools.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {26}, number = {3}, pages = {1091-1095}, pmid = {36720748}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Tool Use Behavior ; *Crows ; Feeding Behavior ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian crows are the only nonhuman animals known to craft hooked-sticks for use in foraging. Since their first description over 25 years ago, researchers have been unable to provide a detailed account of how these complex tools function in natural probe sites. Using close-up video footage, we document how a New Caledonian crow operated a hooked-stick to extract a large tree weta from a chamber in a tree trunk. The extraction technique had two distinct, separate components: (1) simultaneous oscillating head rotation and reciprocating bill action, and (2) measured pulling with the tool. Analysis of this first detailed field observation of hooked-stick use suggests a link between hooked-stick tool characteristics, functionality and skilled manipulation in natural prey extraction by these technological birds. Our findings also provide a rare, if not novel, example of tool-associated oscillatory manipulation in nonhuman animals.}, }
@article {pmid36718772, year = {2023}, author = {Kołodziejczak, A and Rotsztejn, H}, title = {Objective, measurable assessment of the elasticity of the skin around the eyes following the carboxytherapy treatment.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {22}, number = {5}, pages = {1560-1564}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.15599}, pmid = {36718772}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {503/3-066-01/503-31-001-19-00//Medical University of Lodz/ ; //Statutory Research Activity Department of Cosmetology and Aesthetic Dermatology, Faculty of Pharmacy/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Skin Aging ; Elasticity ; Eye ; Skin ; Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Carboxytherapy is one of the most popular procedures used in dermatology. The treatments are known to be minimally invasive and highly effective for various skin disorders. Therefore, the research carried out in the paper is purposeful and addresses an important area of aesthetic therapies.<br><br>AIMS: Objective, apparatus-based assessment of the effect of carboxytherapy on skin elasticity around the eyes.<br><br>PATIENTS/METHODS: The study included a group of 39 Caucasian individuals aged 35-55&#x2009;years. Participants were subjected to a series of five carboxytherapy treatments of eye area at weekly intervals. The Cutometer measuring probe was used to assess skin elasticity. Additionally, photographic documentation was out using the Fotomedicus system.<br><br>RESULTS: In this study, statistically significant increase in R2 parameter was found as the result of applied treatment. This parameter is considered to be the most important indicator of changes in skin elasticity. In 29 out of 39 subjects, the carboxytherapy treatment significantly improved skin tension and elasticity. Such therapy may also exert a beneficial effect on flexibility since in 28 participants the favorable change in the R7 parameter was visible.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The objective analysis of the impact of carboxytherapy treatment on parameters determining skin elasticity revealed that this therapy can be used as an anti-aging method in the eye area. Obtained results are in agreement with other biochemical, histological, and photographical documentation analyses of the effect of carboxytherapy on skin, performed by independent researchers.}, }
@article {pmid36718014, year = {2023}, author = {Falholt Elvebakken, H and Bruntse, AB and Vedel, C and Kjaerulff, S}, title = {Topical Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LB244R® ointment alleviates skin aging: An exploratory trial.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {22}, number = {6}, pages = {1911-1918}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.15657}, pmid = {36718014}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Humans ; Elasticity ; Epidermis ; *Lactobacillales ; Ointments ; Skin/diagnostic imaging ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The skin is of vital importance for health and well-being. As people age, the skin undergoes visual and morphological changes such as wrinkling, loss of elasticity, increased pigmentation, and decreased cell turnover. This is not only visually unappealing to many but can also pose health issues.<br><br>AIM: In this study, a probiotic ointment (PO) containing live lactic acid bacteria (LAB) (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LB244R&#xae;) was investigated for its ability to alleviate symptoms of skin aging in an exploratory clinical trial.<br><br>METHODS: The PO was applied twice daily for 56&#x2009;days by 21 subjects. Anti-aging efficacy was evaluated by skin ultrasonography, skin biomechanical properties, skin hydration, and clinical evaluations at day 0, 28, and 56.<br><br>RESULTS: Sub-epidermal low echogenic band thickness decreased (0.261&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;0.069&#x2009;mm to 0.247&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;0.055&#x2009;mm) after 56&#x2009;days. Dermal density increased (324.689&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;57.506&#x2009;pixel/mm[2] to 367.831&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;75.790&#x2009;pixel/mm[2]). Skin hydration increased (34.1&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;6.9 to 51.3&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;10.0&#xa0;AU). Additionally, skin firmness increased, as shown by decreasing values (0.264&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;0.038 to 0.228&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;0.037&#x2009;mm). Skin elasticity increased (0.578&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;0.045 to 0.618&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;0.044). Trans-epidermal water loss decreased (9.1&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;2.0&#xa0;g/h/m[2] to 8.5&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;1.3). All clinical evaluations, Crow's feet, spot score, smoothness score, and complexion radiance, were improved.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The PO improved all measured parameters with statistical significance after 56&#x2009;days of application, clearly demonstrating the potential of the PO as an anti-aging agent and reaffirming the potential of topical probiotic LAB. Future studies need to elucidate the mode of action of anti-aging effects by probiotics, but at present time, this study paves the way for the use of probiotic LAB topically to alleviate aging of the skin.}, }
@article {pmid36710785, year = {2022}, author = {Ittyerah, M}, title = {Handedness in low-birthweight children: Insights in lateralization.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {1018913}, pmid = {36710785}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Low-birthweight (LBW) children (n = 96) weighing less than 2.5 kg at birth and normal birthweight (NBW) children (n = 96) from Delhi, India, between the ages of 5 and 12 years were assessed for intelligence with Ravens Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM), their handedness and hand proficiency for unimanual and bimanual performance. The objective was to know if there is a relation between birthweight and the development of handedness. Compared with NBW children, the LBW group had lower percentile scores for the RCPM. The LBW children were less lateralized than the NBW children in the hand preference test. The LBW children were faster than the NBW for sorting objects with each hand separately, but they were slower in the bimanual envelope task. This indicates a delay in interhemispheric transfer and the development of the corpus callosum that connects the cerebral hemispheres to enable bimanual coordination. In the absence of more direct evidence, hand skill was used as an index of the extent of lateralized control for performance. Findings indicate a relation between birthweight and lateralization in children tested for hand preference.}, }
@article {pmid36704643, year = {2023}, author = {Tatebe, LC and Ho, VP and Santry, HP and Tatebe, K}, title = {Redefining trauma deserts: novel technique to accurately map prehospital transport time.}, journal = {Trauma surgery &amp; acute care open}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {e001013}, pmid = {36704643}, issn = {2397-5776}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Prehospital transport time has been directly related to mortality for hemorrhaging trauma patients. 'Trauma deserts' were previously defined as being outside of a 5-mile radial distance of an urban trauma center. We postulated that the true 'desert' should be based on transport time rather than transport distance.<br><br>METHODS: Using the Chicagoland area that was used to describe 'trauma deserts,' a sequential process to query a commercial travel optimization product to map transport times over coordinates that covered the entire urban area at a particular time of day. This produces a heat map representing prehospital transport times. Travel times were then limited to 15&#x2009;minutes to represent a temporally based map of transport capabilities. This was repeated during high and low traffic times and for centers across the city.<br><br>RESULTS: We demonstrated that the temporally based map for transport to a trauma center in an urban center differs significantly from the radial distance to the trauma center. Primary effects were proximity to highways and the downtown area. Transportation to centers were significantly different when time was considered instead of distance (p<0.001). We were further able to map variations in traffic patterns and thus transport times by time of day. The truly 'closest' trauma center by time changed based on time of day and was not always the closest hospital by distance.<br><br>DISCUSSION: As the crow flies is not how the ambulance drives. This novel technique of dynamically mapping transport times can be used to create accurate trauma deserts in an urban setting with multiple trauma centers. Further, this technique can be used to quantify the potential benefit or detriment of adding or removing firehouses or trauma centers.}, }
@article {pmid36704627, year = {2023}, author = {Balasubramanian, K and Ramya, K and Gayathri Devi, K}, title = {Optimized adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system based on hybrid grey wolf-bat algorithm for schizophrenia recognition from EEG signals.}, journal = {Cognitive neurodynamics}, volume = {17}, number = {1}, pages = {133-151}, pmid = {36704627}, issn = {1871-4080}, abstract = {Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder that impairs a person's thinking capacity, feelings and emotions, behavioural traits, etc., Emotional distortions, delusions, hallucinations, and incoherent speech are all some of the symptoms of schizophrenia, and cause disruption of routine activities. Computer-assisted diagnosis of schizophrenia is significantly needed to give its patients a higher quality of life. Hence, an improved adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system based on the Hybrid Grey Wolf-Bat Algorithm for accurate prediction of schizophrenia from multi-channel EEG signals is presented in this study. The EEG signals are pre-processed using a Butterworth band pass filter and wICA initially, from which statistical, time-domain, frequency-domain, and spectral features are extracted. Discriminating features are selected using the ReliefF algorithm and are then forwarded to ANFIS for classification into either schizophrenic or normal. ANFIS is optimized by the Hybrid Grey Wolf-Bat Algorithm (HWBO) for better efficiency. The method is experimented on two separate EEG datasets-1 and 2, demonstrating an accuracy of 99.54% and 99.35%, respectively, with appreciable F1-score and MCC. Further experiments reveal the efficiency of the Hybrid Wolf-Bat algorithm in optimizing the ANFIS parameters when compared with traditional ANFIS model and other proven algorithms like genetic algorithm-ANFIS, particle optimization-ANFIS, crow search optimization algorithm-ANFIS and ant colony optimization algorithm-ANFIS, showing high R[2] value and low RSME value. To provide a bias free classification, tenfold cross validation is performed which produced an accuracy of 97.8% and 98.5% on the two datasets respectively. Experimental outcomes demonstrate the superiority of the Hybrid Grey Wolf-Bat Algorithm over the similar techniques in predicting schizophrenia.}, }
@article {pmid36701352, year = {2023}, author = {Duerr, AE and Parsons, AE and Nagy, LR and Kuehn, MJ and Bloom, PH}, title = {Effectiveness of an artificial intelligence-based system to curtail wind turbines to reduce eagle collisions.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {18}, number = {1}, pages = {e0278754}, pmid = {36701352}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Artificial Intelligence ; *Conservation of Natural Resources/methods ; Animals, Wild ; }, abstract = {Operating wind-power projects often includes protecting volant wildlife. One method for doing this uses an automated system to detect, identify (through use of artificial intelligence; AI), track animals (targets) and curtail turbines when risk of a collision is high. However, assessments of the effectiveness, in terms of identification accuracy and subsequent turbine curtailment of such systems are lacking. Over 1 year, we assessed such an automated system installed at a wind project in California, USA to determine its identification accuracy and rates at which "virtual" curtailments were ordered (without slowing turbines), for eagles (intended targets) and non-eagle targets. The system correctly identified 77% of eagles and 85% of non-eagles. Curtailment orders occurred 6 times more frequently for non-eagle targets (5,439) than for eagle targets (850). Greater abundance of common ravens that were misidentified as eagles influenced the effectiveness of the system by greatly increasing unintended curtailment orders. The balance between costs (price of the IdentiFlight system, reduced energy generation, turbine wear and maintenance) and benefits (reduced collisions between intended target species and turbines) may depend upon the biological setting, speed at which operators can curtail turbines, and the objectives of the operator when considering the IdentiFlight system.}, }
@article {pmid36690672, year = {2023}, author = {Likhanov, M and Bogdanova, O and Alenina, E and Kolienko, T and Kovas, Y}, title = {No evidence of a positive effect of learning Chinese language as an L2 on spatial ability.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {1262}, pmid = {36690672}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Child ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; *Language ; Learning ; *Spatial Navigation ; }, abstract = {Spatial ability (SA) was shown to be a robust predictor of success in various educational contexts, including STEM. Thus, ways to improve SA are of interest to educational psychology. There is some evidence that SA might be improved via learning character-based language, e.g. Chinese as a second language (CSL), however, the existing research is quite limited. The study aims to investigate an effect of CSL learning on SA in schoolchildren from Year 2 to Year 7. Current study employs a sample of Russian schoolchildren (N = 283), who learnt: English only, English and Spanish; or English and Chinese. Participants completed Raven's progressive matrices and Mental rotation task at the age of 8 and again at the age of 14. Our data showed negligible group differences in the initial SA level at Year 2 (before learning second language). Similar negligible differences were found at Year 7. Regression analysis showed that SA was predicted by intelligence (Raven's) and gender but not language learnt at both ages. This pattern of results indicates that learning a Chinese as a second language is unlikely to affect SA. Further research is needed to investigate whether other factors, such as length, intensity and context of learning, moderate this link.}, }
@article {pmid36687801, year = {2023}, author = {Breininger, DR and Stolen, ED and Carter, GM and Legare, SA and Payne, WV and Breininger, DJ and Lyon, JE and Schumann, CD and Hunt, DK}, title = {Territory and population attributes affect Florida scrub-jay fecundity in fire-adapted ecosystems.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {e9704}, pmid = {36687801}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Fecundity, the number of young produced by a breeding pair during a breeding season, is a primary component in evolutionary and ecological theory and applications. Fecundity can be influenced by many environmental factors and requires long-term study due to the range of variation in ecosystem dynamics. Fecundity data often include a large proportion of zeros when many pairs fail to produce any young during a breeding season due to nest failure or when all young die independently after fledging. We conducted color banding and monthly censuses of Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) across 31 years, 15 populations, and 761 territories along central Florida's Atlantic coast. We quantified how fecundity (juveniles/pair-year) was influenced by habitat quality, presence/absence of nonbreeders, population density, breeder experience, and rainfall, with a zero-inflated Bayesian hierarchical model including both a Bernoulli (e.g., brood success) and a Poisson (counts of young) submodel, and random effects for year, population, and territory. The results identified the importance of increasing "strong" quality habitat, which was a mid-successional state related to fire frequency and extent, because strong territories, and the proportion of strong territories in the overall population, influenced fecundity of breeding pairs. Populations subject to supplementary feeding also had greater fecundity. Territory size, population density, breeder experience, and rainfall surprisingly had no or small effects. Different mechanisms appeared to cause annual variation in fecundity, as estimates of random effects were not correlated between the success and count submodels. The increased fecundity for pairs with nonbreeders, compared to pairs without, identified empirical research needed to understand how the proportion of low-quality habitats influences population recovery and sustainability, because dispersal into low-quality habitats can drain nonbreeders from strong territories and decrease overall fecundity. We also describe how long-term study resulted in reversals in our understanding because of complications involving habitat quality, sociobiology, and population density.}, }
@article {pmid36677391, year = {2022}, author = {Buttler, J and Drown, DM}, title = {Accuracy and Completeness of Long Read Metagenomic Assemblies.}, journal = {Microorganisms}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {36677391}, issn = {2076-2607}, support = {TL4GM118992/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 GM118991/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; RL5 GM118990/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; RL5GM118990/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; P20 GM103395/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; P20GM103395/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; TL4 GM118992/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; UL1GM118991/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Microbes influence the surrounding environment and contribute to human health. Metagenomics can be used as a tool to explore the interactions between microbes. Metagenomic assemblies built using long read nanopore data depend on the read level accuracy. The read level accuracy of nanopore sequencing has made dramatic improvements over the past several years. However, we do not know if the increased read level accuracy allows for faster assemblers to make as accurate metagenomic assemblies as slower assemblers. Here, we present the results of a benchmarking study comparing three commonly used long read assemblers, Flye, Raven, and Redbean. We used a prepared DNA standard of seven bacteria as our input community. We prepared a sequencing library using a VolTRAX V2 and sequenced using a MinION mk1b. We basecalled with Guppy v5.0.7 using the super-accuracy model. We found that increasing read depth benefited each of the assemblers, and nearly complete community member chromosomes were assembled with as little as 10× read depth. Polishing assemblies using Medaka had a predictable improvement in quality. We found Flye to be the most robust across taxa and was the most effective assembler for recovering plasmids. Based on Flye's consistency for chromosomes and increased effectiveness at assembling plasmids, we would recommend using Flye in future metagenomic studies.}, }
@article {pmid36657966, year = {2023}, author = {Thiele, JA and Richter, A and Hilger, K}, title = {Multimodal Brain Signal Complexity Predicts Human Intelligence.}, journal = {eNeuro}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {36657966}, issn = {2373-2822}, mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; *Brain/diagnostic imaging ; *Brain Mapping/methods ; Mental Processes ; Electroencephalography/methods ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods ; Intelligence ; }, abstract = {Spontaneous brain activity builds the foundation for human cognitive processing during external demands. Neuroimaging studies based on functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) identified specific characteristics of spontaneous (intrinsic) brain dynamics to be associated with individual differences in general cognitive ability, i.e., intelligence. However, fMRI research is inherently limited by low temporal resolution, thus, preventing conclusions about neural fluctuations within the range of milliseconds. Here, we used resting-state electroencephalographical (EEG) recordings from 144 healthy adults to test whether individual differences in intelligence (Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices scores) can be predicted from the complexity of temporally highly resolved intrinsic brain signals. We compared different operationalizations of brain signal complexity (multiscale entropy, Shannon entropy, Fuzzy entropy, and specific characteristics of microstates) regarding their relation to intelligence. The results indicate that associations between brain signal complexity measures and intelligence are of small effect sizes (r ∼ 0.20) and vary across different spatial and temporal scales. Specifically, higher intelligence scores were associated with lower complexity in local aspects of neural processing, and less activity in task-negative brain regions belonging to the default-mode network. Finally, we combined multiple measures of brain signal complexity to show that individual intelligence scores can be significantly predicted with a multimodal model within the sample (10-fold cross-validation) as well as in an independent sample (external replication, N = 57). In sum, our results highlight the temporal and spatial dependency of associations between intelligence and intrinsic brain dynamics, proposing multimodal approaches as promising means for future neuroscientific research on complex human traits.}, }
@article {pmid36655045, year = {2023}, author = {Zhou, L and Lei, J and Zhai, X and Shi, H and Wang, J}, title = {Chinese striped-neck turtles vocalize underwater and show differences in peak frequency among different age and sex groups.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {e14628}, pmid = {36655045}, issn = {2167-8359}, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Male ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Turtles ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Turtle vocalizations play an important role throughout their lives by expressing individual information (position, emotion, or physiological status), reflecting mating preferences, and synchronizing incubation. The Chinese striped-neck turtle (Mauremys sinensis) is one of the most widely distributed freshwater turtles in China, whose wild population is critically endangered. However, its vocalization has not been studied, which can be the basis for behavioral and ecological studies.<br><br>METHODS: Five different sex-age groups of turtles were recorded underwater in a soundproof room. Cluster analysis and principal component analysis for classification of Chinese striped-neck turtle calls were unreasonable. The turtle calls were manually sought using visual and aural inspection of the recordings in Raven Pro 1.5 software and classified according to differences perceived through auditory inspection and the morphological characteristics of the spectrograms. The results of similarity analysis verified the reliability of manual classification. We compared the peak frequency of the calls among different age and sex groups.<br><br>RESULTS: We identified ten M. sinensis call types, displayed their spectra and waveforms, and described their auditory characteristics. Most calls produced by the turtles were low-frequency. Some high-frequency call types, that are common in other turtle species were also produced. Similar to other turtles, the Chinese striped-neck turtle generates harmonic vocalizations. Courtship behaviors were observed when one of the call types occurred in the mixed-sex group. Adult females produced more high-frequency call types, and subadult males had higher vocalizations than other groups. These results provide a basis for future research on the function of vocalizations, field monitoring, and conservation of this species.}, }
@article {pmid36638508, year = {2023}, author = {Salaün, JP and Chagnot, A and Cachia, A and Poirel, N and Datin-Dorrière, V and Dujarrier, C and Lemarchand, E and Rolland, M and Delalande, L and Gressens, P and Guillois, B and Houdé, O and Levard, D and Gakuba, C and Moyon, M and Naveau, M and Orliac, F and Orliaguet, G and Hanouz, JL and Agin, V and Borst, G and Vivien, D}, title = {Consequences of General Anesthesia in Infancy on Behavior and Brain Structure.}, journal = {Anesthesia and analgesia}, volume = {136}, number = {2}, pages = {240-250}, doi = {10.1213/ANE.0000000000006233}, pmid = {36638508}, issn = {1526-7598}, mesh = {Humans ; Child ; Adult ; Animals ; Mice ; *Brain/diagnostic imaging ; Anesthesia, General/adverse effects ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods ; Memory, Short-Term ; *Anesthetics ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: One in 7 children will need general anesthesia (GA) before the age of 3. Brain toxicity of anesthetics is controversial. Our objective was to clarify whether exposure of GA to the developing brain could lead to lasting behavioral and structural brain changes.<br><br>METHODS: A first study was performed in mice. The behaviors (fear conditioning, Y-maze, and actimetry) and brain anatomy (high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging) of 6- to 8-week-old Swiss mice exposed or not exposed to GA from 4 to 10 days old were evaluated. A second study was a complementary analysis from the preexisting APprentissages EX&#xe9;cutifs et cerveau chez les enfants d'&#xe2;ge scolaire (APEX) cohort to assess the replicability of our data in humans. The behaviors (behavior rating inventory of executive function, emotional control, and working memory score, Backward Digit Span, and Raven 36) and brain anatomy (high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging) were compared in 102 children 9 to 10 years of age exposed or not exposed to a single GA (surgery) during infancy.<br><br>RESULTS: The animal study revealed chronic exacerbated fear behavior in the adult mice (95% confidence interval [CI], 4-80; P = .03) exposed to postnatal GA; this was associated with an 11% (95% CI, 7.5-14.5) reduction of the periaqueductal gray matter (P = .046). The study in humans suggested lower emotional control (95% CI, 0.33-9.10; P = .06) and a 6.1% (95% CI, 4.3-7.8) reduction in the posterior part of the right inferior frontal gyrus (P = .019) in the children who had been exposed to a single GA procedure.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The preclinical and clinical findings of these independent studies suggest lasting effects of early life exposure to anesthetics on later emotional control behaviors and brain structures.}, }
@article {pmid36629935, year = {2023}, author = {Huber, L and Lonardo, L}, title = {Canine perspective-taking.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {275-298}, pmid = {36629935}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {W 1262/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; W1262-B29//FWF/ ; CS18-012//WWTF/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Dogs/psychology ; Humans ; Attention ; *Cognition ; Cues ; Learning ; Theory of Mind ; }, abstract = {An important question in the study of canine cognition is how dogs understand humans, given that they show impressive abilities for interacting and communicating with us. In this review, we describe and discuss studies that have investigated dogs' perspective-taking abilities. There is solid evidence that dogs are not only sensitive to the gaze of others, but also their attention. We specifically address the question whether dogs have the ability to take the perspective of others and thus come to understand what others can or cannot perceive. From the latter, they may then infer what others know and use this representation to anticipate what others do next. Still, dogs might simply rely on directly observable cues and on what they themselves can perceive when they assess what others can perceive. And instead of making inferences from representations of others' mental states, they may have just learned that certain behaviours of ours lead to certain outcomes. However, recent research seems to challenge this low-level explanation. Dogs have solved several perspective-taking tasks instantly and reliably across a large number of variations, including geometrical gaze-following, stealing in the dark, concealing information from others, and Guesser/Knower differentiation. In the latter studies, dogs' choices between two human informants were strongly influenced by cues related to the humans' visual access to the food, even when the two informants behaved identically. And finally, we review a recent study that found dogs reacting differently to misleading suggestions of human informants that have either a true or false belief about the location of food. We discuss this surprising result in terms of the comprehension of reality-incongruent mental states, which is considered as a hallmark of Theory of Mind acquisition in human development. Especially on the basis of the latter findings, we conclude that pet dogs might be sensitive to what others see, know, intend, and believe. Therefore, this ability seems to have evolved not just in the corvid and primate lineages, but also in dogs.}, }
@article {pmid36628198, year = {2022}, author = {Wu, K and Liu, Z and Wang, W and Zhou, F and Cheng, Q and Bian, Y and Su, W and Liu, B and Zha, J and Zhao, J and Zheng, X}, title = {An artificially designed elastin-like recombinant polypeptide improves aging skin.}, journal = {American journal of translational research}, volume = {14}, number = {12}, pages = {8562-8571}, pmid = {36628198}, issn = {1943-8141}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: As a substrate for cell growth, elastin can promote the regeneration and remodeling of the epidermis, which plays an important role in delaying skin aging. However, elastin proteins are more than 700 amino acids long and cannot be absorbed through the skin, which prevents the direct utilization of elastin in the prevention and treatment of aging skin.<br><br>METHODS: We designed an elastin-like recombinant polypeptide (ELR) which could be absorbed through the skin based on the property of hexapeptide VGVAPG. Thirty healthy Chinese Han female participants which met the criteria were enrolled in this study and all of them completed the tests including elasticity, tightness, and wrinkle detection. The participants used this polypeptide for 4 weeks and were tested in three visits: one day before trial started (D0), and 14 and 28 days after the trial (D14 and D28, respectively). Paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests for non-parametric measures were used to determine the difference between D0 and D14, or D0 and D28.<br><br>RESULTS: The skin elasticity level in the thirty participants was significantly increased after using ELR for 28 days (P=0.024), and the average value of skin firmness (Uf) declined from 3.313 (D0) to 3.292 (D14) and 3.265 (D28), although there was no statistically significant difference between treatment and pre-treatment. Furthermore, the wrinkle count (D14: P<0.001; D28: P<0.001), wrinkles volume (D14: P<0.001; D28: P=0.008), and wrinkles area (D14: P<0.001; D28: P<0.001) of Crow's feet were significantly improved by using ELR for 14 days or 28 days.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Continuous use of ELR could significantly improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles.}, }
@article {pmid36618291, year = {2022}, author = {Rezaei, H and Tavassoli, M and Esmaeilnejad, B}, title = {Phylogenetic Diversity of Dermanyssus gallinae (Dermanyssidae) based on Mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxidase-1 Gene Sequence Collected from Different Bird Species in Iran.}, journal = {Archives of Razi Institute}, volume = {77}, number = {3}, pages = {1091-1096}, pmid = {36618291}, issn = {2008-9872}, mesh = {Animals ; *Mite Infestations/epidemiology/veterinary ; Phylogeny ; Electron Transport Complex IV/genetics ; Chickens ; Iran ; *Poultry Diseases/epidemiology ; *Mites/genetics ; }, abstract = {A wide range of hosts, especially birds, can be infested with Dermanyssus gallinae (D. gallinae), as an obligate hematophagous mite. In this study, cytochrome oxidase 1 (CO1) gene sequences were employed to perform molecular and phylogenetic analyses of D. gallinae collected from different bird species in Iran. Adult mites were collected from the body surface and cage material of ornamental and wild birds in industrial farms located in the Western and Northwestern regions of Iran. The infestation was identified in layer poultry farming by inspecting the eggs and the whole surfaces of the birds' bodies. The holding area and body surface of the ornamental and wild birds were also thoroughly examined. The D. gallinae samples were assigned to two subgroups of haplogroup A (i.e., A1 and A2). The phylogenetic tree suggested that the D. gallinae samples collected from wild birds in the A1 sub-haplogroup should be placed beside Japanese, Norwegian, Italian, and French samples isolated from wild birds in the A2 sub-haplogroup. Additionally, the highest phylogenetic similarity in the A2 sub-group was observed between mites isolated from ornamental and industrial birds in Australia. The findings of the present study suggest that crows and sparrows may play an important role in the transmission of D. gallinae infestation to other species of wild birds due to their high population, as well as their presence in most areas.}, }
@article {pmid36617783, year = {2023}, author = {Lima, M and Tábuas-Pereira, M and Durães, J and Vieira, D and Faustino, P and Baldeiras, I and Santana, I}, title = {Neuropsychological Assessment in the Distinction Between Biomarker Defined Frontal-Variant of Alzheimer's Disease and Behavioral-Variant of Frontotemporal Dementia.}, journal = {Journal of Alzheimer's disease : JAD}, volume = {91}, number = {4}, pages = {1303-1312}, doi = {10.3233/JAD-220897}, pmid = {36617783}, issn = {1875-8908}, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Male ; *Alzheimer Disease/pathology ; *Frontotemporal Dementia/psychology ; Memory ; Executive Function ; Biomarkers ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Frontal-variant of Alzheimer's disease (fvAD) was purposed for patients with AD pathology that, despite the typical amnestic presentation, show early and progressive deterioration of behavior and executive functions, closely resembling the behavioral-variant of frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD). This leads to a challenging differential diagnosis where neuropsychological evaluation and in vivo pathological evidence are essential.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the contribution of a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment (NP) battery in distinguishing between fvAD-dementia and bvFTD supported by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers.<br><br>METHODS: We included 40 patients with a baseline NP profile with prominent early executive and/or behavioral dysfunction, who meet both diagnosis of bvFTD and fvAD-dementia, according to international criteria. All patients underwent comprehensive NP assessment and CSF-AD biomarker evaluation. Neuropsychological domains as well as clinical and sociodemographic features, and APOE genotype were compared between groups.<br><br>RESULTS: 21 patients (52.5%) met the biological criteria for AD (decreased A&#x3b2;42 together with increased T-tau or P-tau in CSF) and were therefore classified as fvAD (mean age was 64.57, with 47.6% female). There were no differences between groups regarding age/age-at-onset, gender, or educational level. Regarding neuropsychological profile, performances in language and memory functions were equivalent in both groups. Significant differences were found in visuo-constructional abilities (p&#x200a;=&#x200a;0.004), Trail Making Test A (p&#x200a;<&#x200a;0.001), and Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (p&#x200a;=&#x200a;0.019), with fvAD patients showing worst performances.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In patients with an early prominent frontal profile, a higher impairment in attention and visuo-spatial functions, signaling additional right hemisphere fronto-parietal dysfunction, point towards a diagnosis of fvAD-dementia and may be useful in clinical practice.}, }
@article {pmid36617019, year = {2022}, author = {Kapoor, B and Nagpal, B and Jain, PK and Abraham, A and Gabralla, LA}, title = {Epileptic Seizure Prediction Based on Hybrid Seek Optimization Tuned Ensemble Classifier Using EEG Signals.}, journal = {Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {36617019}, issn = {1424-8220}, support = {PNURSP2022R178//Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, 388 Riyadh, Saudi Arabia/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Seizures/diagnosis ; *Epilepsy/diagnosis ; Electroencephalography/methods ; Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Algorithms ; Support Vector Machine ; }, abstract = {Visual analysis of an electroencephalogram (EEG) by medical professionals is highly time-consuming and the information is difficult to process. To overcome these limitations, several automated seizure detection strategies have been introduced by combining signal processing and machine learning. This paper proposes a hybrid optimization-controlled ensemble classifier comprising the AdaBoost classifier, random forest (RF) classifier, and the decision tree (DT) classifier for the automatic analysis of an EEG signal dataset to predict an epileptic seizure. The EEG signal is pre-processed initially to make it suitable for feature selection. The feature selection process receives the alpha, beta, delta, theta, and gamma wave data from the EEG, where the significant features, such as statistical features, wavelet features, and entropy-based features, are extracted by the proposed hybrid seek optimization algorithm. These extracted features are fed forward to the proposed ensemble classifier that produces the predicted output. By the combination of corvid and gregarious search agent characteristics, the proposed hybrid seek optimization technique has been developed, and is used to evaluate the fusion parameters of the ensemble classifier. The suggested technique's accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity are determined to be 96.6120%, 94.6736%, and 91.3684%, respectively, for the CHB-MIT database. This demonstrates the effectiveness of the suggested technique for early seizure prediction. The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the proposed technique are 95.3090%, 93.1766%, and 90.0654%, respectively, for the Siena Scalp database, again demonstrating its efficacy in the early seizure prediction process.}, }
@article {pmid36597822, year = {2023}, author = {Parsa, FR and Bayley, S and Bell, F and Dodd, S and Morris, R and Roberts, J and Wawman, D and Clegg, SR and Dunn, JC}, title = {Epidemiology of protozoan and helminthic parasites in wild passerine birds of Britain and Ireland.}, journal = {Parasitology}, volume = {150}, number = {3}, pages = {297-310}, pmid = {36597822}, issn = {1469-8161}, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Parasites ; United Kingdom/epidemiology ; Ireland/epidemiology ; Bayes Theorem ; Animals, Wild ; *Helminths ; *Passeriformes ; *Bird Diseases/epidemiology/parasitology ; Prevalence ; *Haemosporida ; }, abstract = {Avian endoparasites play important roles in conservation, biodiversity and host evolution. Currently, little is known about the epidemiology of intestinal helminths and protozoans infecting wild birds of Britain and Ireland. This study aimed to determine the rates of parasite prevalence, abundance and infection intensity in wild passerines. Fecal samples (n = 755) from 18 bird families were collected from 13 sites across England, Wales and Ireland from March 2020 to June 2021. A conventional sodium nitrate flotation method allowed morphological identification and abundance estimation of eggs/oocysts. Associations with host family and age were examined alongside spatiotemporal and ecological factors using Bayesian phylogenetically controlled models. Parasites were detected in 20.0% of samples, with corvids and finches having the highest prevalences and intensities, respectively. Syngamus (33%) and Isospora (32%) were the most prevalent genera observed. Parasite prevalence and abundance differed amongst avian families and seasons, while infection intensity varied between families and regions. Prevalence was affected by diet diversity, while abundance differed by host age and habitat diversity. Infection intensity was higher in birds using a wider range of habitats, and doubled in areas with feeders present. The elucidation of these patterns will increase the understanding of parasite fauna in British and Irish birds.}, }
@article {pmid36595212, year = {2023}, author = {Rey, A and Fagot, J}, title = {Associative learning accounts for recursive-structure generation in crows.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {51}, number = {4}, pages = {347-348}, pmid = {36595212}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; *Learning ; }, abstract = {Recursive sequence generation (i.e., the ability to transfer recursive patterns to novel items) was recently reported in crows (Liao et al., 2022, Science Advances, 8[44], eabq3356). Here, we argue that although the reported data are certainly compatible with the recursion hypothesis, they can also be explained by other, much simpler mechanisms of associative learning.}, }
@article {pmid36592102, year = {2022}, author = {Söyler, H&#xc7; and Altintoprak, AE and Aldemir, E&#xd6;}, title = {How Do Cannabis and Synthetic Cannabinoids Affect Neurocognitive Functions?.}, journal = {Turk psikiyatri dergisi = Turkish journal of psychiatry}, volume = {33}, number = {4}, pages = {233-247}, doi = {10.5080/u26956}, pmid = {36592102}, issn = {2651-3463}, mesh = {Male ; Humans ; *Cannabis ; Cognition ; Executive Function/physiology ; *Cannabinoids/adverse effects ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Substance-Related Disorders ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: In this study, the losses of neurocognitive function caused by the use of cannabis and synthetic cannabinoid were studied on specific cognitive areas (attention and working memory, executive functions, visuospatial perception, learning and memory, planning and problem solving, word naming) and were described in comparision with healthy controls (control group).<br><br>METHOD: In this study, while 52 participants who applied to Ege University Faculty of Medicine Department of Mental Health and Mental Disorders Drug Addiction Treatment Center Clinic between March 2015 - February 2017 and used cannabis at least for one year in the past and 51 participants who used synthetic cannabinoids for at least one year in the past were participant groups with a history of substance use; 57 staff/student of Ege University with no history of any substance use were participants of the control group. The research sample consisted of 160 participants. The sample group consisted of 160 men aged 18-35, and also 16 participants aged 36-54 were involved in the study in order to observe neuropsychological functions that changed with age. Stroop Test for attention area, Raven Standart Progressive Matrices Test for executive functions area, Line Orientation Test and Cancellation Test for visuospatial perception area, Serial Digit Learning Test and &#xd6;ktem Verbal Memory Progresses Scale for learning and memory area, The Tower of London Test for planning and problem solving skill, Boston Naming Test for word naming area were used.<br><br>RESULTS: In this study, while the lowest perfomance on the ability of focused attention, visuospatial cognition, visual scanning, orientation, sustained attention, general ability, short-term memory, learning, long-term memory, word naming was shown by the participants with a history of synthetic cannabis use, the participants with a history of cannabis use had the lowest performance on the ability of response rate, perseveration, conceptualizing, abstract thinking, changing sets, recognition. Participants' history of substance use did not affect the ability of planning and problem solving.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In conclusion, this study suggests that the addition of cognitive rehabilitation programs to medical and psychosocial improvement studies carried out in the field of addiction will increase the success.}, }
@article {pmid38625260, year = {2023}, author = {Samal, S and Dash, R}, title = {Developing a novel stock index trend predictor model by integrating multiple criteria decision-making with an optimized online sequential extreme learning machine.}, journal = {Granular computing}, volume = {8}, number = {3}, pages = {411-440}, pmid = {38625260}, issn = {2364-4974}, abstract = {It has always been the goal of many researchers to gain a thorough understanding of the patterns in the stock market and forecast the trends it will follow. The use of an advanced forecasting model can assist with accurately forecasting the future price of stocks, their fluctuations in the markets, as well as make profits in trading. With this motivation, in this study, a novel stock index trend predictor model is designed by integrating Multiple Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) with an optimized Online Sequential Extreme Learning Machine (OSELM). Forecasting the future stock index prices and analyzing the upward or downward trends of these price forecasts are the two objectives of the proposed model. As the performance of OSELM is heavily dependent on the activation functions used in it, suitable selection of the activation function for OSELM is addressed as a MCDM problem. According to this approach, the trend prediction performance of six popular activation functions is assessed based on five regression-based and five classification-based criteria. In this investigation, three MCDM approaches are used to assess the performance matrix and determine which activation function is the best for OSELM based on six alternative models and ten criteria. To further optimize OSELM's performance, a hybrid crow search algorithm (hCSA) is incorporated in its training phase. By introducing the chaotic map and mutation operator in position update scheme and catfish behavior in the search process of original CSA, the proposed hCSA is able to achieve the right balance between exploration and exploitation improving the convergence. The proposed trend predictor model is empirically evaluated over historical data of three stock indices such as BSE SENSEX, S&amp;P 500 and DJIA collected during pre-COVID and COVID time frame. In most of the test cases, the hCSA-OSELM model outperforms the state-of-the-art baseline models in terms of all evaluation criteria. When compared to the second-best baseline model, the suggested model is able to achieve the MSE improvements of 4-6%, 25-31%, and accuracy improvements of 0.4-0.8%, 0.9-1.3% over the pre-COVID and COVID time-frames, respectively. The statistical test also reveals the better performance of the proposed model. The robust and reliable MCDM-based model selection, superior prediction and classification outcomes clearly reveal that the proposed model can be used for financial time-series forecasting amid daily volatility as well as highly volatile markets.}, }
@article {pmid36579399, year = {2023}, author = {Balter, LJT and Sundelin, T and Holding, BC and Petrovic, P and Axelsson, J}, title = {Intelligence predicts better cognitive performance after normal sleep but larger vulnerability to sleep deprivation.}, journal = {Journal of sleep research}, volume = {32}, number = {4}, pages = {e13815}, doi = {10.1111/jsr.13815}, pmid = {36579399}, issn = {1365-2869}, support = {//Karolinska Institutet/ ; //Nordic Mensa Fund/ ; 13-1159:1//Riksbankens Jubileumsfond/ ; 421-2013-2083//Vetenskapsr&#xe5;det/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Sleep Deprivation/psychology ; *Cognition ; Sleepiness ; Sleep ; Intelligence ; }, abstract = {Fluid intelligence is seen as a beneficial attribute, protecting against stress and ill-health. Whether intelligence provides resilience to the cognitive effects of insufficient sleep was tested in the current pre-registered experimental study. Participants (N = 182) completed the Raven's test (measuring fluid intelligence) and a normal night of sleep or a night of total sleep deprivation. Sleepiness and four cognitive tests were completed at 22:30 hours (baseline), and the following day after sleep manipulation. At baseline, higher fluid intelligence was associated with faster and more accurate arithmetic calculations, and better episodic memory, but not with spatial working memory, simple attention or sleepiness. Those with higher fluid intelligence were more, not less, impacted by sleep deprivation, evident for arithmetic ability, episodic memory and spatial working memory. We need to establish a more nuanced picture of the benefits of intelligence, where intelligence is not related to cognitive advantages in all situations.}, }
@article {pmid36574957, year = {2023}, author = {Cipolotti, L and Ruffle, JK and Mole, J and Xu, T and Hyare, H and Shallice, T and Chan, E and Nachev, P}, title = {Graph lesion-deficit mapping of fluid intelligence.}, journal = {Brain : a journal of neurology}, volume = {146}, number = {1}, pages = {167-181}, pmid = {36574957}, issn = {1460-2156}, support = {089231/A/09/Z//Welcome Trust/ ; //Department of Health's National Institute/ ; //Health Research Biomedical Research Centre's/ ; //National Brain Appeal/ ; //Guarantors of Brain/ ; 213038/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Bayes Theorem ; *Brain/diagnostic imaging ; *Intelligence ; Cognition ; Prefrontal Cortex ; Frontal Lobe/diagnostic imaging ; Brain Mapping/methods ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {Fluid intelligence is arguably the defining feature of human cognition. Yet the nature of its relationship with the brain remains a contentious topic. Influential proposals drawing primarily on functional imaging data have implicated 'multiple demand' frontoparietal and more widely distributed cortical networks, but extant lesion-deficit studies with greater causal power are almost all small, methodologically constrained, and inconclusive. The task demands large samples of patients, comprehensive investigation of performance, fine-grained anatomical mapping, and robust lesion-deficit inference, yet to be brought to bear on it. We assessed 165 healthy controls and 227 frontal or non-frontal patients with unilateral brain lesions on the best-established test of fluid intelligence, Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices, employing an array of lesion-deficit inferential models responsive to the potentially distributed nature of fluid intelligence. Non-parametric Bayesian stochastic block models were used to reveal the community structure of lesion deficit networks, disentangling functional from confounding pathological distributed effects. Impaired performance was confined to patients with frontal lesions [F(2,387) = 18.491; P < 0.001; frontal worse than non-frontal and healthy participants P < 0.01, P <0.001], more marked on the right than left [F(4,385) = 12.237; P < 0.001; right worse than left and healthy participants P < 0.01, P < 0.001]. Patients with non-frontal lesions were indistinguishable from controls and showed no modulation by laterality. Neither the presence nor the extent of multiple demand network involvement affected performance. Both conventional network-based statistics and non-parametric Bayesian stochastic block modelling heavily implicated the right frontal lobe. Crucially, this localization was confirmed on explicitly disentangling functional from pathology-driven effects within a layered stochastic block model, prominently highlighting a right frontal network involving middle and inferior frontal gyrus, pre- and post-central gyri, with a weak contribution from right superior parietal lobule. Similar results were obtained with standard lesion-deficit analyses. Our study represents the first large-scale investigation of the distributed neural substrates of fluid intelligence in the focally injured brain. Combining novel graph-based lesion-deficit mapping with detailed investigation of cognitive performance in a large sample of patients provides crucial information about the neural basis of intelligence. Our findings indicate that a set of predominantly right frontal regions, rather than a more widely distributed network, is critical to the high-level functions involved in fluid intelligence. Further they suggest that Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices is a useful clinical index of fluid intelligence and a sensitive marker of right frontal lobe dysfunction.}, }
@article {pmid36574043, year = {2023}, author = {Jang, SI and Jung, YC and Suk, J and Lee, S and Han, J and Suh, BF and Kim, E}, title = {A long term study of the difference in efficacy and effect rate of various concentrations of retinol (1500-6600 IU) in middle aged women.}, journal = {Archives of dermatological research}, volume = {315}, number = {5}, pages = {1323-1332}, pmid = {36574043}, issn = {1432-069X}, mesh = {Middle Aged ; Humans ; Female ; *Vitamin A/therapeutic use ; Skin ; *Skin Aging ; Elasticity ; Nasolabial Fold ; }, abstract = {Retinol is widely used for topical application for antiaging. However, the efficacy and effect rate of different concentrations of retinol have been rarely analyzed. Therefore, in this study, the efficacy and rate of effect of retinol concentrations from 1500 to 6600 IU, on various skin parameters, have been compared. Seventy-two Korean women aged 40-59 years participated in this study. Retinol was used by them for 24 weeks; the effects were measured at 0, 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 weeks. The measurement parameters for aging were crow's feet, forehead wrinkles, nasolabial fold, dermal density, and elasticity and that for skin color were skin brightness, yellowness, redness, and standard deviation of skin brightness. The texture of the skin was measured by measuring the skin roughness and pores, and the skin barrier function was evaluated through hydration, sebum, and desquamation. Low concentration retinol (1500-2500 IU) had a significantly higher effect in skin color, brightness, and elasticity and faster improvement rate in skin brightness and elasticity compared to that for high concentration (3300-6600 IU). High concentration of retinol had a significantly higher effect in wrinkles, dermal density and pores and faster improvement rate for wrinkles, skin texture, pores, and desquamation compared to that for low concentration. This study evaluated the changes caused by different concentration of retinol over a long period of time. The results of this study have great implications as the optimal concentration of retinol can be prescribed for an accurate period for the desired results without side effects.}, }
@article {pmid36558576, year = {2022}, author = {Cheng, W and Lin, D and Liu, P and Yun, B and Lu, M and Shi, S and Hu, G and Cui, Y}, title = {Achieving Fano resonance with an ultra-high slope rate by silicon nitride CROW embedded in a Mach-Zehnder interferometer.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {30}, number = {26}, pages = {46147-46156}, doi = {10.1364/OE.477261}, pmid = {36558576}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {Fano resonance with asymmetric line shape is very promising in many applications such as optical switching, sensing, slow light, laser. Fano resonances based on some integrated structures have been demonstrated on the silicon on insulator platform. However, the extinction ratios and slope rates of the most proposed integrated Fano resonances are relatively low, which limits their applications. In this paper, a tunable silicon nitride coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW) embedded in a Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) is proposed to achieve Fano resonance. Benefiting from fine tuning supported by the low thermo-optic coefficient of the silicon nitride optical waveguide, the optical amplitudes and phases in the two arms of the MZI were accurately adjusted to achieve destructive interference, which gives an ultra-high extinction ratio. Furthermore, high quality factor CROW, supported by the native low loss silicon nitride optical waveguide, greatly shrinks the resonance bandwidth. Combining the above two superiorities, a Fano resonance with a very high extinction ratio of up to 57 dB and slope rate as high as 8.1 × 10[4] dB/nm was obtained, which is an order of magnitude larger than the reported integrated Fano resonances. We believe that the proposed structure would be a promising candidate for high-performance switching and high-sensitivity sensing.}, }
@article {pmid36552280, year = {2022}, author = {Beauchamp, G and Bowman, R}, title = {Visual Monitoring Strategies of Sentinels in a Cooperative Breeder.}, journal = {Biology}, volume = {11}, number = {12}, pages = {}, pmid = {36552280}, issn = {2079-7737}, abstract = {Vigilance is important for early detection of threats. Previous studies have focused on the allocation of time to vigilance but neglected how animals monitor their surroundings during vigilance. Where animals look and how long each look lasts can affect the quality of visual monitoring and thus the ability to detect threats during vigilance. We examined visual monitoring strategies in the Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens), a cooperative breeder with sentinel behaviour. Sentinels in this species make head turns from vantage points to detect the arrival of predators and intruding neighbours. We found that sentinels initiated head turns at regular intervals and also returned their gaze to areas previously monitored at regular intervals, which is predicted when predators and intruders rely on surprise rather than stealth to approach. Sentinels made head turns in several directions, but often more frequently on one side of the body than the other, which was not predicted for regular vigilance. Average look duration during sentinel bouts was shorter in smaller groups and in juveniles. We argue that shorter looks are beneficial to increase visual coverage in more threatening situations. Our study highlights how visual monitoring strategies during vigilance reflect the risk posed by predators and intruders.}, }
@article {pmid36547738, year = {2023}, author = {Rössler, T and Auersperg, AM}, title = {Recent developments in parrot cognition: a quadrennial update.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {199-228}, pmid = {36547738}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {Y01309//Austrian Science Fund/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; *Parrots ; }, abstract = {Psittacines, along with corvids, are commonly referred to as 'feathered apes' due to their advanced cognitive abilities. Until rather recently, the research effort on parrot cognition was lagging behind that on corvids, however current developments show that the number of parrot studies is steadily increasing. In 2018, M. L. Lambert et al. provided a comprehensive review on the status of the most important work done so far in parrot and corvid cognition. Nevertheless, only a little more than 4 years after this publication, more than 50 new parrot studies have been published, some of them chartering completely new territory. On the 25th anniversary of Animal Cognition we think this warrants a detailed review of parrot cognition research over the last 4 years. We aim to capture recent developments and current trends in this rapidly expanding and diversifying field.}, }
@article {pmid36542636, year = {2022}, author = {Mantilla, C and Murad, Z}, title = {Ego-relevance in team production.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {17}, number = {12}, pages = {e0279391}, pmid = {36542636}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Humans ; *Ego ; }, abstract = {We study how individuals' effort contribution to a team production task varies depending on whether the task is ego relevant or not. We conduct an experiment to test the effect of ego-relevance when the team production depends on the team's top- or bottom-performer. Ego-relevance is manipulated by calling the Raven IQ Test an "IQ Task" or a "Pattern Task." We find that the effort contributed to the task is affected by ego-relevance and the impact of the team production function on effort contribution is mediated by the teammate's expected effort contribution. Ego-relevance increases the responsiveness to the teammate's expected effort contributions. Similarly, more responsive behavior is noticeable when the team production depends on the bottom-performer. However, we do not observe interaction-effects between ego-relevance and the team production function that affect effort contributions.}, }
@article {pmid36541516, year = {2022}, author = {O'Coin, D and Mclvor, GE and Thornton, A and Ouellette, NT and Ling, H}, title = {Velocity correlations in jackdaw flocks in different ecological contexts.}, journal = {Physical biology}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1088/1478-3975/aca862}, pmid = {36541516}, issn = {1478-3975}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Crows ; Flight, Animal ; Models, Biological ; Birds ; }, abstract = {Velocity correlation is an important feature for animal groups performing collective motions. Previous studies have mostly focused on the velocity correlation in a single ecological context. It is unclear whether correlation characteristics vary in a single species in different contexts. Here, we studied the velocity correlations in jackdaw flocks in two different contexts: transit flocks where birds travel from one location to another, and mobbing flocks where birds respond to an external stimulus. We found that in both contexts, although the interaction rules are different, the velocity correlations remain scale-free, i.e. the correlation length (the distance over which the velocity of two individuals is similar) increases linearly with the group size. Furthermore, we found that the correlation length is independent of the group density for transit flocks, but increases with increasing group density in mobbing flocks. This result confirms a previous observation that birds obey topological interactions in transit flocks, but switch to metric interactions in mobbing flocks. Finally, in both contexts, the impact of group polarization on correlation length is not significant. Our results suggest that wild animals are always able to respond coherently to perturbations regardless of context.}, }
@article {pmid36536201, year = {2023}, author = {Iqbal, F and Wilson, R and Ayub, Q and Song, BK and Krzeminska-Ahmedzai, U and Talei, A and Hermawan, AA and Rahman, S}, title = {Biomonitoring of heavy metals in the feathers of House crow (Corvus splendens) from some metropolitans of Asia and Africa.}, journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international}, volume = {30}, number = {13}, pages = {35715-35726}, pmid = {36536201}, issn = {1614-7499}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Biological Monitoring ; Cadmium/analysis ; *Environmental Pollutants/analysis ; Feathers/chemistry ; Lead/analysis ; Environmental Monitoring ; *Metals, Heavy/analysis ; Asia ; Birds ; Africa ; }, abstract = {Urban-dwelling birds can be useful biomonitors to assess the impact of the urbanisation on both public and wildlife health. Widely distributed urban bird species, the House crow, was studied for heavy metal accumulation levels from nine cities of South Asia, Southeast Asia and Africa that border the Indian Ocean. Feathers were spectroscopically investigated for the deposition of ten heavy metals, i.e. As, Zn, Pb, Cd, Ni, iron Fe, Mn, Cr, Cu and Li. Fe and Zn were found to be the most prevalent metals in all sites. Measured concentrations of Pb (4.38-14.77 mg kg[-1]) overall, and Fe (935.66 mg kg[-1]) and Cu (67.17 mg kg[-1]) at some studied sites were above the toxicity levels reported lethal in avian toxicological studies. Multivariate analysis and linear models supported geographical location as a significant predictor for the level of most of the metals. Zn and Cu, generally and Pb, Cd, Mn, Cr at some sites exhibited potential bioaccumulation from surrounding environments. Inter-species comparisons strengthen the inference that the House crow is a reliable bioindicator species for the qualitative assessment of local urban environmental pollution and could be a useful tool for inter-regional monitoring programs.}, }
@article {pmid36516059, year = {2022}, author = {Kim, J and Lee, SG and Lee, J and Choi, S and Suk, J and Lee, JH and Yang, JH and Yang, JS and Kim, J}, title = {Oral Supplementation of Low-Molecular-Weight Collagen Peptides Reduces Skin Wrinkles and Improves Biophysical Properties of Skin: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Study.}, journal = {Journal of medicinal food}, volume = {25}, number = {12}, pages = {1146-1154}, doi = {10.1089/jmf.2022.K.0097}, pmid = {36516059}, issn = {1557-7600}, mesh = {Humans ; *Skin Aging ; Skin/metabolism ; Double-Blind Method ; Collagen/metabolism ; Peptides/metabolism ; Dietary Supplements ; }, abstract = {Orally administered collagen peptides could contribute to antiaging by replacing the degraded extracellular matrix proteins caused by photoaging. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of low-molecular-weight collagen peptides for treating photoaged and dry skin. In this randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, double-blinded trial, we randomly assigned study participants (n = 100) to either the test product group or placebo group at a 1:1 ratio for 12 weeks. The wrinkle scale score, eye wrinkle volume, roughness parameters, such as the average maximum height of the wrinkle (Rz), arithmetic average within the total measuring length of the wrinkle (Ra), maximum profile valley depth of the wrinkle (Rv), and skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), overall elasticity (R2), and ratio of elastic recovery to total deformation (R7) were evaluated at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. Safety assessments with serial blood tests were also conducted. Efficacy assessments of data from 84 participants were conducted as the per-protocol analysis. After 12 weeks, the 10-grade crow's feet photo scale score, eye wrinkle volume, skin roughness parameters (Rz, Ra, and Rv), skin elasticity (R2 and R7), skin hydration, and TEWL were significantly improved in the test product group compared to the placebo group. There were no adverse events or abnormalities according to laboratory analysis associated with using the test material during the study period. This study showed that the oral supplementation of low-molecular-weight collagen peptides could improve the wrinkles, elasticity, hydration, and barrier integrity of photoaged facial skin. This clinical study was registered with the Korean Clinical Research Information Service and International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (No: KCT0006500).}, }
@article {pmid36513441, year = {2022}, author = {Apprey, C and Asamoah-Boakye, O and Annaful, VT and Annan, RA}, title = {Comparative analysis of methyl-donor nutrient intakes and RCPM cognitive performance among school-aged children.}, journal = {Clinical nutrition ESPEN}, volume = {52}, number = {}, pages = {105-112}, doi = {10.1016/j.clnesp.2022.10.005}, pmid = {36513441}, issn = {2405-4577}, mesh = {Child ; Humans ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Ghana ; Intelligence Tests ; *Eating ; *Cognition ; Zinc ; Folic Acid ; Vitamins ; Methionine ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Evidence shows a link between methyl-donor nutrient intakes and a child's cognitive ability. However, this is less known among Ghanaian children who might be at higher risk of methyl-donor nutrient deficiencies. This study showed comparative analysis of methyl-donor nutrient intakes and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test performance among 2073 Ghanaian school children aged 9-13 years across four regions of Ghana.<br><br>METHODS: Data for the present study were obtained from the Child Nutrition, Fitness, and Cognition project; a cross-sectional survey conducted in four regions of Ghana. Dietary methyl-donor nutrient values were based on repeated 24&#xa0;h recall data collected during the study periods. Cognitive tests were performed on the 2073 children using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test.<br><br>RESULTS: We found dietary zinc (adjusted: &#x3b2;&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.21, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.003) and methionine (adjusted: &#x3b2;&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.60, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.044) intakes to be associated with RCPM scores in the linear regression model. School children living in Northern Region (adjusted OR&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.6, p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001, 95% CI&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.4-0.7) and Volta Region (adjusted OR&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.7, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.006, 95% CI&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.5-0.9) had lower odds of scoring above the 50th percentile on the RCPM test compared with those living in Greater Accra Region. Children who consumed below the RDA for dietary folate (unadjusted OR&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.8, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.055, 95% CI&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.7-1.0) and zinc (unadjusted OR&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.8, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.049, 95%CI&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.7-1.0) had lower odds of scoring above the 50th percentile on the RCPM test compared with those who consumed above the RDA for dietary folate and zinc respectively. Children who consumed below the EAR for dietary vitamin B12 (unadjusted OR&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.7, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.004, 95% CI&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.6-0.9) had reduced odds of scoring above the 50th percentile on the RCPM test compared with those who consumed above the EAR for dietary vitamin B12.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Higher dietary methionine intake was strongly associated with higher RCPM scores. Regional differences, and children's dietary consumption below the EAR/RDA for dietary folate, vitamin B12, and zinc were associated with poor RCPM test performance. School children's nutrient intake should be prioritized for improved cognition.}, }
@article {pmid36508431, year = {2022}, author = {Singh, MP and Popli, R and Brar, S and Rajsekar, K and Sachin, O and Naik, J and Kumar, S and Sinha, S and Singh, V and Patel, P and Verma, R and Hazra, A and Misra, R and Mehrotra, D and Biswal, SB and Panigrahy, A and Gaur, KL and Pankaj, JP and Sharma, DK and Madhavi, K and Madhusudana, P and Narayanasamy, K and Chitra, A and Velhal, GD and Bhondve, AS and Bahl, R and Kaur, S and Prinja, S}, title = {CHSI costing study-Challenges and solutions for cost data collection in private hospitals in India.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {17}, number = {12}, pages = {e0276399}, pmid = {36508431}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Humans ; *Health Services ; *Government Programs ; Hospitals, Private ; Policy Making ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; India ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) has enabled the Government of India to become a strategic purchaser of health care services from private providers. To generate base cost evidence for evidence-based policymaking the Costing of Health Services in India (CHSI) study was commissioned in 2018 for the price setting of health benefit packages. This paper reports the findings of a process evaluation of the cost data collection in the private hospitals.<br><br>METHODS: The process evaluation of health system costing in private hospitals was an exploratory survey with mixed methods (quantitative and qualitative). We used three approaches-an online survey using a semi-structured questionnaire, in-depth interviews, and a review of monitoring data. The process of data collection was assessed in terms of time taken for different aspects, resources used, level and nature of difficulty encountered, challenges and solutions.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean time taken for data collection in a private hospital was 9.31 (&#xb1; 1.0) person months including time for obtaining permissions, actual data collection and entry, and addressing queries for data completeness and quality. The longest time was taken to collect data on human resources (30%), while it took the least time for collecting information on building and space (5%). On a scale of 1 (lowest) to 10 (highest) difficulty levels, the data on human resources was the most difficult to collect. This included data on salaries (8), time allocation (5.5) and leaves (5).<br><br>DISCUSSION: Cost data from private hospitals is crucial for mixed health systems. Developing formal mechanisms of cost accounting data and data sharing as pre-requisites for empanelment under a national insurance scheme can significantly ease the process of cost data collection.}, }
@article {pmid36507034, year = {2022}, author = {Wang, L and Sheng, A and Chang, L and Zhou, R}, title = {Improving fluid intelligence of children through working memory training: The role of inhibition control.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {1025036}, pmid = {36507034}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Intelligence is strongly associated with working memory. Working memory training can improve fluid intelligence, but the underlying mechanism requires further investigation. Because inhibition control may play a key role in working memory training, this study investigated this process from an electrophysiological perspective. In total, 40 children aged 9 to 11 years were enrolled and randomly divided into a training group (n = 20) and a control group (n = 20). The training group received 20 days of working memory training, whereas the control group did not receive any training. Before and after the training period, all participants were tested using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM), and electrophysiological indicators were recorded while they performed go/no-go and Stroop tasks. The results revealed that relative to the control group, the training group had significantly improved RSPM scores in the test conducted after their training. For the go/no-go tasks, the training group exhibited a significant decrease in N2 amplitude, a significant increase in P3 amplitude, a significant decrease in theta band energy, and an improvement in response inhibition ability. No significant change was observed for the Stroop task. Correlation analysis revealed that an improvement in individual response inhibition can positively predict an improvement in fluid intelligence. These results suggest that working memory training enhances the fluid intelligence of children by enhancing their response inhibition ability.}, }
@article {pmid36503565, year = {2022}, author = {Blum, CR and Fitch, WT and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Social dynamics impact scolding behaviour in captive groups of common ravens (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Frontiers in zoology}, volume = {19}, number = {1}, pages = {32}, pmid = {36503565}, issn = {1742-9994}, support = {W 1262/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Predator avoidance can have immense impacts on fitness, yet individual variation in the expression of anti-predator behaviour remains largely unexplained. Existing research investigating learning of novel predators has focused either on individuals or groups, but not both. Testing in individual settings allows evaluations of learning or personality differences, while testing in group settings makes it impossible to distinguish any such individual differences from social dynamics. In this study, we investigate the effect of social dynamics on individual anti-predator behaviour. We trained 15 captive ravens to recognize and respond to a novel experimental predator and then exposed them to this predator in both group and isolation settings across 1.5 years to tease apart individual differences from social effects and evaluate two hypotheses: (1) weaker anti-predator responses of some individuals in the group occurred, because they failed to recognize the experimental predator as a threat, leading to weak responses when separated, or (2) some individuals had learned the new threat, but their scolding intensity was repressed in the group trials due to social dynamics (such as dominance rank), leading to increased scolding intensity when alone.<br><br>RESULTS: We found that dominance significantly influences scolding behaviour in the group trials; top-ranked individuals scold more and earlier than lower ranking ones. However, in the separation trials scolding duration is no longer affected by rank.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: We speculate that, while top-ranked individuals use their anti-predator responses to signal status in the group, lower-ranking ravens may be suppressed from, or are less capable of, performing intense anti-predator behaviour while in the group. This suggests that, in addition to its recruitment or predator-deterrent effects, alarm calling may serve as a marker of individual quality to conspecifics.}, }
@article {pmid36498712, year = {2022}, author = {Faber, D and Grosse, GM and Klietz, M and Petri, S and Schwenkenbecher, P and Sühs, KW and Kopp, B}, title = {Towards the Validation of Executive Functioning Assessments: A Clinical Study.}, journal = {Journal of clinical medicine}, volume = {11}, number = {23}, pages = {}, pmid = {36498712}, issn = {2077-0383}, abstract = {Neuropsychological assessment needs a more profound grounding in psychometric theory. Specifically, psychometrically reliable and valid tools are required, both in patient care and in scientific research. The present study examined convergent and discriminant validity of some of the most popular indicators of executive functioning (EF). A sample of 96 neurological inpatients (aged 18-68 years) completed a battery of standardized cognitive tests (Raven's matrices, vocabulary test, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, verbal fluency test, figural fluency test). Convergent validity of indicators of intelligence (Raven's matrices, vocabulary test) and of indicators of EF (Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, verbal fluency test, figural fluency) were calculated. Discriminant validity of indicators of EF against indicators of intelligence was also calculated. Convergent validity of indicators of intelligence (Raven's matrices, vocabulary test) was good (rxtyt = 0.727; R[2] = 0.53). Convergent validity of fluency indicators of EF against executive cognition as indicated by performance on the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test was poor (0.087 ≤ rxtyt ≤ 0.304; 0.008 ≤ R[2] ≤ 0.092). Discriminant validity of indicators of EF against indicators of intelligence was good (0.106 ≤ rxtyt ≤ 0.548; 0.011 ≤ R[2] ≤ 0.300). Our conclusions from these data are clear-cut: apparently dissimilar indicators of intelligence converge on general intellectual ability. Apparently dissimilar indicators of EF (mental fluency, executive cognition) do not converge on general executive ability. Executive abilities, although non-unitary, can be reasonably well distinguished from intellectual ability. The present data contribute to the hitherto meager evidence base regarding the validity of popular indicators of EF.}, }
@article {pmid36478284, year = {2022}, author = {Cella, F and Marchak, KA and Bianchi, C and Gelman, SA}, title = {Generic Language for Social and Animal Kinds: An Examination of the Asymmetry Between Acceptance and Inferences.}, journal = {Cognitive science}, volume = {46}, number = {12}, pages = {e13209}, pmid = {36478284}, issn = {1551-6709}, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Language ; }, abstract = {Generics (e.g., "Ravens are black") express generalizations about categories or their members. Previous research found that generics about animals are interpreted as broadly true of members of a kind, yet also accepted based on minimal evidence. This asymmetry is important for suggesting a mechanism by which unfounded generalizations may flourish; yet, little is known whether this finding extends to generics about groups of people (heretofore, "social generics"). Accordingly, in four preregistered studies (n = 665), we tested for an inferential asymmetry for generics regarding novel groups of animals versus people. Participants were randomly assigned to either an Implied Prevalence task (given a generic, asked to estimate the prevalence of a property) or a Truth-Conditions task (given prevalence information, asked whether a generic was true or false). A generic asymmetry was found in both domains, at equivalent levels. The asymmetry also extended to properties varying in valence (dangerous and neutral). Finally, there were differences as a function of property valence in the Implied Prevalence task and a small but consistent interaction between domain and prevalence in the Truth-Conditions task. We discuss the implications of these results for the semantics of generics, theoretical accounts of the asymmetry, and the relation between generics and stereotyping.}, }
@article {pmid36478057, year = {2023}, author = {Parisi, D and Srivastava, S and Parmar, D and Strupat, C and Brenner, S and Walsh, C and Neogi, R and Basu, S and Ziegler, S and Jain, N and De Allegri, M}, title = {Awareness of India's national health insurance scheme (PM-JAY): a cross-sectional study across six states.}, journal = {Health policy and planning}, volume = {38}, number = {3}, pages = {289-300}, pmid = {36478057}, issn = {1460-2237}, support = {//Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation/ ; //German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)/ ; //Deutsche Gesellschaft f&#xfc;r Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; India ; *Insurance, Health ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; *National Health Programs ; }, abstract = {The literature suggests that a first barrier towards accessing benefits of health insurance in low- and middle-income countries is lack of awareness of one's benefits. Yet, across settings and emerging schemes, limited scientific evidence is available on levels of awareness and their determinants. To fill this gap, we assessed socio-demographic and economic determinants of beneficiaries' awareness of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), the national health insurance scheme launched in India in 2018, and their awareness of own eligibility. We relied on cross-sectional household (HH) survey data collected in six Indian states between 2019 and 2020. Representative data of HHs eligible for PM-JAY from 11 618 respondents (an adult representative from each surveyed HH) were used. We used descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression models to explore the association between awareness of PM-JAY and of one's own eligibility and socio-economic and demographic characteristics. About 62% of respondents were aware of PM-JAY, and among the aware, 78% knew that they were eligible for the scheme. Regression analysis confirmed that older respondents with a higher educational level and salaried jobs were more likely to know about PM-JAY. Awareness was lower among respondents from Meghalaya and Tamil Nadu. Respondents from Other Backward Classes, of wealthier socio-economic status or from Meghalaya or Gujarat were more likely to be aware of their eligibility status. Respondents from Chhattisgarh were less likely to know about their eligibility. Our study confirms that while more than half of the eligible population was aware of PM-JAY, considerable efforts are needed to achieve universal awareness. Socio-economic gradients confirm that the more marginalized are still less aware. We recommend implementing tailored, state-specific information dissemination approaches focusing on knowledge of specific scheme features to empower beneficiaries to demand their entitled services.}, }
@article {pmid36475968, year = {2023}, author = {Soga, E and Sakaguchi, K and Takizawa, S and Tanabe, M and Denda, T and Koide, S and Hayashi, W and Kasahara, S and Nagano, Y and Nagano, N}, title = {Emergence of Vibrio cincinnatiensis, a Rare Human Pathogen, in Urban Crows.}, journal = {Microbiology spectrum}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {e0392522}, pmid = {36475968}, issn = {2165-0497}, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Crows ; *Vibrio/genetics ; *Vibrio Infections/epidemiology/veterinary ; }, }
@article {pmid36473095, year = {2022}, author = {Hilger, K and Euler, MJ}, title = {Intelligence and Visual Mismatch Negativity: Is Pre-Attentive Visual Discrimination Related to General Cognitive Ability?.}, journal = {Journal of cognitive neuroscience}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-17}, doi = {10.1162/jocn_a_01946}, pmid = {36473095}, issn = {1530-8898}, support = {HI 2185-1/1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; }, abstract = {EEG has been used for decades to identify neurocognitive processes related to intelligence. Evidence is accumulating for associations with neural markers of higher-order cognitive processes (e.g., working memory); however, whether associations are specific to complex processes or also relate to earlier processing stages remains unclear. Addressing these issues has implications for improving our understanding of intelligence and its neural correlates. The MMN is an ERP that is elicited when, within a series of frequent standard stimuli, rare deviant stimuli are presented. As stimuli are typically presented outside the focus of attention, the MMN is suggested to capture automatic pre-attentive discrimination processes. However, the MMN and its relation to intelligence has largely only been studied in the auditory domain, thus preventing conclusions about the involvement of automatic discrimination processes in humans' dominant sensory modality-vision. EEG was recorded from 50 healthy participants during a passive visual oddball task that presented simple sequence violations and deviations within a more complex hidden pattern. Signed area amplitudes and fractional area latencies of the visual MMN were calculated with and without Laplacian transformation. Correlations between visual MMN and intelligence (Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices) were of negligible to small effect sizes, differed critically between measurement approaches, and Bayes Factors provided anecdotal to substantial evidence for the absence of an association. We discuss differences between the auditory and visual MMN, the implications of different measurement approaches, and offer recommendations for further research in this evolving field.}, }
@article {pmid36468824, year = {2023}, author = {Erdil, D and Manav, V and Türk, CB and Kara Polat, A and Koku Aksu, AE}, title = {The clinical effect of botulinum toxin on pigmentation.}, journal = {International journal of dermatology}, volume = {62}, number = {2}, pages = {250-256}, doi = {10.1111/ijd.16522}, pmid = {36468824}, issn = {1365-4632}, mesh = {Humans ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; *Neuromuscular Agents/adverse effects ; Melanins ; Face ; Forehead ; Pigmentation ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin injection is a common cosmetic procedure often used to treat dynamic wrinkles, but it has also been observed to have a lightening effect on the skin. It is thought that this lightening effect develops due to muscle innervation blockage; however, the change in the amount of melanin levels has not been quantified.<br><br>METHOD: Thirty-one patients who presented to the dermatology clinic of a tertiary hospital for botulinum toxin injection for wrinkle treatment were included in the study. A standard dose of botulinum toxin was injected to each patient's forehead, glabellar, and crow's feet region, and then the melanin index (MI) was measured with the Mexameter&#xae; MX 18 (Courage + Khazaka Electronic, K&#xf6;ln).<br><br>RESULTS: After botulinum toxin treatment, a statistically significant decrease was found in the forehead and upper face MI. The upper face total baseline MI was significantly lower in the Glogau 1 group than in the Glogau 2 group (P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.033). The forehead 15th day MI was significantly lower in the Glogau 1 group than in the Glogau 2, 3, and 4 groups (P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.030).<br><br>DISCUSSION: Botulinum toxin application to healthy skin for wrinkle treatment can cause facial skin lightening by reducing MI. It was also remarkable that this decrease was more pronounced in the forehead, which is a region that is particularly vulnerable to sun exposure, compared to other regions. Younger people, who are included in the Glogau type 1 group, may benefit more from this lightening effect.}, }
@article {pmid36468274, year = {2023}, author = {Cahill, LS}, title = {Black dreams matter: Exploring the polyphonic realms of the Black Radical Imaginary.}, journal = {Journal of personality}, volume = {91}, number = {1}, pages = {30-49}, doi = {10.1111/jopy.12762}, pmid = {36468274}, issn = {1467-6494}, mesh = {Male ; Humans ; *Black People ; *Black or African American ; Imagination ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Charles Cobb Jr. and Alex Davis are two Black American men who have never experienced the full capacity of freedom. The routine denial of their full humanity, or social equity, has counterintuitively sparked an impetus inside of them both to commit their lives to seek to dismantle oppressive systems.<br><br>METHOD: Through a series of oral histories with both organizers, I learned that they have been engaged with radical dreaming and imagination as a survivalist movement strategy.<br><br>RESULTS: Despite the dehumanizing violence of slavery, the political humiliation of Reconstruction, the brutal segregation and state terrorism of Jim Crow, and the many Civil Rights successes and Neoliberal disappointments that have followed, Cobb and Davis have embodied a steadfast commitment to freedom, unwavering trust in their people, in some contexts, a just daring that defies current dominant reason.<br><br>CONCLUSION: I argue that by drawing through lines between the meaning-making experiences of Charles Cobb Jr. 's and Alex Davis' incredible lives we can better understand their critical consciousness and sociopolitical development have influenced their dreams of freedom, cultivated their radical imaginations, and sustained their collectivism.}, }
@article {pmid36466137, year = {2022}, author = {Cicero, C and Mason, NA and Oong, Z and Title, PO and Morales, ME and Feldheim, KA and Koo, MS and Bowie, RCK}, title = {Deep ecomorphological and genetic divergence in Steller's Jays (Cyanocitta stelleri, Aves: Corvidae).}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {12}, number = {12}, pages = {e9517}, pmid = {36466137}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {The relationship between ecology and morphology is a cornerstone of evolutionary biology, and quantifying variation across environments can shed light on processes that give rise to biodiversity. Three morphotypes of the Steller's Jay (Cyanocitta stelleri) occupy different ecoregions in western North America, which vary in climate and landcover. These morphotypes (Coastal, Interior, Rocky Mountain) differ in size, plumage coloration, and head pattern. We sampled 1080 Steller's Jays from 68 populations (plus 11 outgroups) to address three main questions using data on morphology, plumage, genetics (mtDNA, microsatellites), and ecological niches: (1) How do phenotypic and genetic traits vary within and among populations, morphotypes, and ecoregions? (2) How do population-level differences in Steller's Jays compare with other sister species pairs of North American birds? (3) What can we infer about the population history of Steller's Jays in relation to past climates, paleoecology, and niche evolution? We found substantial morphological, genetic, and ecological differentiation among morphotypes. The greatest genetic divergence separated Coastal and Interior morphotypes from the Rocky Mountain morphotype, which was associated with warmer, drier, and more open habitats. Microsatellites revealed additional structure between Coastal and Interior groups. The deep mtDNA split between Coastal/Interior and Rocky Mountain lineages of Steller's Jay (ND2 ~ 7.8%) is older than most North American avian sister species and dates to approximately 4.3 mya. Interior and Rocky Mountain morphotypes contact across a narrow zone with steep clines in traits and reduced gene flow. The distribution of the three morphotypes coincides with divergent varieties of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir. Species distribution models support multiple glacial refugia for Steller's Jays. Our integrative dataset combined with extensive geographic sampling provides compelling evidence for recognizing at least two species of Steller's Jay.}, }
@article {pmid36462496, year = {2023}, author = {Hiono, T and Kobayashi, D and Kobayashi, A and Suzuki, T and Satake, Y and Harada, R and Matsuno, K and Sashika, M and Ban, H and Kobayashi, M and Takaya, F and Fujita, H and Isoda, N and Kimura, T and Sakoda, Y}, title = {Virological, pathological, and glycovirological investigations of an Ezo red fox and a tanuki naturally infected with H5N1 high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses in Hokkaido, Japan.}, journal = {Virology}, volume = {578}, number = {}, pages = {35-44}, doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2022.11.008}, pmid = {36462496}, issn = {1096-0341}, mesh = {Animals ; Foxes ; *Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype ; Japan/epidemiology ; Virulence ; *Influenza A virus/genetics ; *Influenza in Birds/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {In winter/spring 2021-2022, high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) that are genetically closely related to each other were detected worldwide. In a public garden in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan, a crow die-off by HPAIV infection occurred from March 29 to May 18, 2022. During the event, H5N1 HPAIVs were isolated from an Ezo red fox (Vulpes vulpes schrencki) and a tanuki (Nyctereutes procyonoides albus) found in the same garden. The fox showed viral meningoencephalitis and moderate virus replication in the upper respiratory tract, whereas the tanuki showed viral conjunctivitis and secondary bacterial infection in the eyes accompanied with visceral larva migrans. Viruses isolated from the fox and the tanuki were genetically closely related to those isolated from crows in the same garden. Various α2-3 sialosides were found in the respiratory tracts of these canid mammals, consistent with HPAIV infections in these animals. This study highlighted the importance of monitoring HPAIV infections in wild carnivore mammals to detect the potential virus spreading in nature.}, }
@article {pmid36445847, year = {2023}, author = {Michon, A}, title = {Botulinum toxin for cosmetic treatments in young adults: An evidence-based review and survey on current practice among aesthetic practitioners.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {128-139}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.15513}, pmid = {36445847}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Humans ; Young Adult ; Aged ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; Forehead ; Esthetics ; *Neuromuscular Agents ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin A (BoNTA) treatments are popular worldwide. Young adults, less than 41 years of age, are an important cohort of patients seen in practice, and the optimal dosage of BoNTA in this age group remains poorly defined.<br><br>AIMS AND OBJECTIVE: To determine the optimal dosing of BoNTA across different age-matched cohorts by reviewing the literature and to evaluate current BoNTA practices among aesthetic practitioners when treating younger versus older adults.<br><br>METHODS: An evidence-based literature review was performed to evaluate the current evidence on BoNTA injections for cosmetic indications in millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) and young adults. A cross-sectional online survey was distributed to aesthetic practitioners to assess their current practice with BoNTA.<br><br>RESULTS: There is a paucity of high-quality research on BoNT in millennials. Our literature review suggests different patterns of practice when treating younger adults. Specifically, our survey revealed that: (1) younger adults are receiving, on average, fewer units of BoNTA at the glabella, forehead, and crow's feet, (2) younger toxin-na&#xef;ve patients are also afraid to look frozen or unnatural, and (3) wrinkles prevention was the most common reason for seeking treatment in younger patients.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The literature review supports the efficacy of BoNTA for correcting wrinkles in millennials. Our findings provide further insight into the dosing pattern of cosmetic BoNTA and motivating factors for seeking treatments in young adults. This valuable information will help practitioners with treatment planning when seeing patients from different age cohorts. An individualized approach and a lower dosage of BoNTA in toxin-na&#xef;ve younger adults are recommended.}, }
@article {pmid36442123, year = {2022}, author = {Quest, M and Rinnert, P and Hahner, L and Nieder, A}, title = {Exogenous and endogenous spatial attention in crows.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {119}, number = {49}, pages = {e2205515119}, pmid = {36442123}, issn = {1091-6490}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Cues ; Learning ; Reaction Time ; }, abstract = {Attention describes the ability to selectively process a particular aspect of the environment at the expense of others. Despite the significance of selective processing, the types and scopes of attentional mechanisms in nonprimate species remain underexplored. We trained four carrion crows in Posner spatial cueing tasks using two separate protocols where the attention-capturing cues are shown at different times before target onset at either the same or a different location as the impending target. To probe automatic bottom-up, or exogenous, attention, two naïve crows were tested with a cue that had no predictive value concerning the location of the subsequent target. To examine volitional top-down, or endogenous, attention, the other two crows were tested with the previously learned cues that predicted the impending target location. Comparing the performance for valid (cue and target at same location) and invalid (cue and target at opposing locations) cues in the nonpredictive cue condition showed a transient, mild reaction time advantage signifying exogenous attention. In contrast, there was a strong and long-lasting performance advantage for the valid conditions with predictive cues indicating endogenous attention. Together, these results demonstrate that crows possess two different attention mechanisms (exogenous and endogenous). These findings signify that crows possess a substantial attentional capacity and robust cognitive control over attention allocation.}, }
@article {pmid36437544, year = {2023}, author = {Amano, S and Yoshikawa, T and Ito, C and Mabuchi, I and Kikuchi, K and Ooguri, M and Yasuda, C}, title = {Prediction and association analyses of skin phenotypes in Japanese females using genetic, environmental, and physical features.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {29}, number = {1}, pages = {e13231}, pmid = {36437544}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; East Asian People ; *Pigmentation Disorders ; Skin ; *Skin Aging/genetics ; Skin Pigmentation/genetics ; Young Adult ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Skin characteristics show great variation from person to person and are affected by multiple factors, including genetic, environmental, and physical factors, but details of the involvement and contributions of these factors remain unclear.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: We aimed to characterize genetic, environmental, and physical factors affecting 16 skin features by developing models to predict personal skin characteristics.<br><br>METHODS: We analyzed the associations of skin phenotypes with genetic, environmental, and physical features in 1472 Japanese females aged 20-80 years. We focused on 16 skin characteristics, including melanin, brightness/lightness, yellowness, pigmented spots, wrinkles, resilience, moisture, barrier function, texture, and sebum amount. As genetic factors, we selected 74 single-nucleotide polymorphisms of genes related to skin color, vitamin level, hormones, circulation, extracellular matrix (ECM) components and ECM-degrading enzymes, inflammation, and antioxidants. Histories of ultraviolet (UV) exposure and smoking as environmental factors and age, height, and weight as physical factors were acquired by means of a questionnaire.<br><br>RESULTS: A linear association with age was prominent for increase in the area of crow's feet, increase in number of pigmented spots, decrease in forehead sebum, and increase in VISIA wrinkle parameters. Associations were analyzed by constructing linear regression models for skin feature changes and logistic regression models to predict whether subjects show lower or higher skin measurement values in the same age groups. Multiple genetic factors, history of UV exposure and smoking, and body mass index were statistically selected for each skin characteristic. The most important association found for skin spots, such as lentigines and wrinkles, was adolescent sun exposure.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Genetic, environmental, and physical factors associated with interindividual differences of the selected skin features were identified. The developed models should be useful to predict the skin characteristics of individuals and their age-related changes.}, }
@article {pmid36436895, year = {2022}, author = {Esmaeilifallah, M and Sadraei, J and Pirestani, M and Kalantari, R}, title = {Molecular characterization and genotyping of Toxoplasma gondii in free-living animals in Iran: Effect of One Health.}, journal = {Veterinary parasitology, regional studies and reports}, volume = {36}, number = {}, pages = {100808}, doi = {10.1016/j.vprsr.2022.100808}, pmid = {36436895}, issn = {2405-9390}, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; Rats ; *One Health ; *Toxoplasma/genetics ; Genotype ; Iran/epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; Columbidae ; *Felidae ; }, abstract = {To understand the transmission of Toxoplasma gondii, this parasite's genetic diversity distribution in free-living hosts is essential. This research's objective is the molecular genotyping of T. gondii isolates from the brain and muscles of Columbidae, Corvidae, Rattus, and Felidae of Mianeh County, East-Azerbaijan Province, Northwest Iran. Three hundred fifty samples were taken. For the genotyping of T. gondii, the GRA6 gene was amplified and digested by the Tru1I (MseI) enzyme. Results of RFLP were confirmed by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. In total, 52%, 34%, 24%, and 50% of Columbidae, Corvidae, Rattus, and Felidae were positive for T. gondii DNA, respectively. All isolated Columbidae were identified as genotype III (100%). Also, 94.1% and 5.9% of Corvidae isolates, 84.4% and 15.6% of the Rattus isolates, and 51.7% and 48.3% of the Felidae isolates belonged to genotypes III and II, respectively. This study is the first to evaluate genetic similarity and phylogenetic analysis between many definitive and intermediated hosts in northwestern Iran. The finding indicates that the T. gondii cycle is maintained among these hosts. As a result, their presence in the environment can be a risk factor for transmitting the infection to humans. Due to demographic and geographic differences in various regions, further studies are required to determine the genetic population structure.}, }
@article {pmid36420534, year = {2023}, author = {Morin, TM and Moore, KN and Isenburg, K and Ma, W and Stern, CE}, title = {Functional reconfiguration of task-active frontoparietal control network facilitates abstract reasoning.}, journal = {Cerebral cortex (New York, N.Y. : 1991)}, volume = {33}, number = {10}, pages = {5761-5773}, doi = {10.1093/cercor/bhac457}, pmid = {36420534}, issn = {1460-2199}, mesh = {*Frontal Lobe/physiology ; *Parietal Lobe/physiology ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Humans ; *Nerve Net/physiology ; Functional Neuroimaging ; Male ; Female ; Young Adult ; Adult ; *Cognition ; *Perception ; }, abstract = {While the brain's functional network architecture is largely conserved between resting and task states, small but significant changes in functional connectivity support complex cognition. In this study, we used a modified Raven's Progressive Matrices Task to examine symbolic and perceptual reasoning in human participants undergoing fMRI scanning. Previously, studies have focused predominantly on discrete symbolic versions of matrix reasoning, even though the first few trials of the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices task consist of continuous perceptual stimuli. Our analysis examined the activation patterns and functional reconfiguration of brain networks associated with resting state and both symbolic and perceptual reasoning. We found that frontoparietal networks, including the cognitive control and dorsal attention networks, were significantly activated during abstract reasoning. We determined that these same task-active regions exhibited flexibly-reconfigured functional connectivity when transitioning from resting state to the abstract reasoning task. Conversely, we showed that a stable network core of regions in default and somatomotor networks was maintained across both resting and task states. We propose that these regionally-specific changes in the functional connectivity of frontoparietal networks puts the brain in a "task-ready" state, facilitating efficient task-based activation.}, }
@article {pmid36418081, year = {2023}, author = {Aota, I and Yatsuda, C and Izawa, EI}, title = {Salivary corticosterone measurement in large-billed crows by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {85}, number = {1}, pages = {71-75}, pmid = {36418081}, issn = {1347-7439}, mesh = {Animals ; *Corticosterone ; Cosyntropin ; *Crows/metabolism ; Adrenocorticotropic Hormone/metabolism ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay/veterinary ; Mammals ; }, abstract = {Salivary corticosteroid measurement, as a surrogate for plasma corticosteroid levels to evaluate an animal's stress or metabolic state, commonly used in mammals. However, the validity of salivary corticosterone (CORT) measurements in birds has not yet been reported. We aimed to measure salivary CORT in crows using a commercially available CORT enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. An adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) challenge experiment using synthetic cosyntropin, an ACTH analogue, was conducted to compare CORT level elevations between the serum and the saliva in a 10-60 min range. Both salivary and blood CORT was significantly elevated 10 min after injecting synthetic cosyntropin. The results supported the validation of salivary CORT as a surrogate for a blood CORT in crows.}, }
@article {pmid36415974, year = {2022}, author = {Mohamed, A and Taylor, GK and Watkins, S and Windsor, SP}, title = {Opportunistic soaring by birds suggests new opportunities for atmospheric energy harvesting by flying robots.}, journal = {Journal of the Royal Society, Interface}, volume = {19}, number = {196}, pages = {20220671}, pmid = {36415974}, issn = {1742-5662}, mesh = {Animals ; Flight, Animal ; *Robotics ; Birds ; Wind ; *Falconiformes ; }, abstract = {The use of flying robots (drones) is increasing rapidly, but their utility is limited by high power demand, low specific energy storage and poor gust tolerance. By contrast, birds demonstrate long endurance, harvesting atmospheric energy in environments ranging from cluttered cityscapes to open landscapes, coasts and oceans. Here, we identify new opportunities for flying robots, drawing upon the soaring flight of birds. We evaluate mechanical energy transfer in soaring from first principles and review soaring strategies encompassing the use of updrafts (thermal or orographic) and wind gradients (spatial or temporal). We examine the extent to which state-of-the-art flying robots currently use each strategy and identify several untapped opportunities including slope soaring over built environments, thermal soaring over oceans and opportunistic gust soaring. In principle, the energetic benefits of soaring are accessible to flying robots of all kinds, given atmospherically aware sensor systems, guidance strategies and gust tolerance. Hence, while there is clear scope for specialist robots that soar like albatrosses, or which use persistent thermals like vultures, the greatest untapped potential may lie in non-specialist vehicles that make flexible use of atmospheric energy through path planning and flight control, as demonstrated by generalist flyers such as gulls, kites and crows.}, }
@article {pmid36415048, year = {2023}, author = {Zambolli, AH and Manzano, MCR and Honda, LK and Rezende, GC and Culot, L}, title = {Performance of autonomous recorders to detect a cryptic and endangered primate species, the black lion-tamarin (Leontopithecus chrysopygus).}, journal = {American journal of primatology}, volume = {85}, number = {1}, pages = {e23454}, doi = {10.1002/ajp.23454}, pmid = {36415048}, issn = {1098-2345}, mesh = {Animals ; *Leontopithecus ; Endangered Species ; Primates ; Population Density ; Forests ; }, abstract = {Information about species distribution is important for conservation but the monitoring of populations can demand a high sampling effort with traditional methods (e.g., line transects, sound playback) that are poorly efficient for cryptic primates, such as the black lion tamarin (Leontopithecus chrysopygus). Here we investigated the effectiveness of passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) as an alternative method to identify the presence of vocalizing lion tamarins in the wild. We aimed to: (1) determine the maximum distance at which autonomous recorders (Song Meter 3) and Raven Pro acoustic software can respectively detect and identify lion tamarin long calls emitted by two captive subjects (ex situ study); and (2) determine the sampling effort required to confirm the presence of the species in the wild (in situ study). In captive settings, we recorded lion tamarin long calls with one to two autonomous recorders operating at increasing distances from the animals' enclosure (8-202 m). In a 515 ha forest fragment, we deployed 12 recorders in a grid, 300 m apart from each other, within the estimated 100 ha home range of one group, and let them record for 10 consecutive days, totaling 985 h. In the ex situ study, hand-browsing of spectrograms yielded 298 long calls emitted from 8 to 194 m, and Raven's Template Detector identified 54.6% of them, also emitted from 8 to 194 m. In the in situ study, we manually counted 1115 long calls, and the Raven's Template Detector identified 44.75% of them. Furthermore, the presence of lion tamarins was confirmed within 1 day using four randomly sorted recorders, whereas 5 days on average were necessary with only one device. While specific protocols still need to be developed to determine primate population size using this technology, we concluded that PAM is a promising tool when considering long term costs and benefits.}, }
@article {pmid36397910, year = {2022}, author = {Kaur, D and Kaur, K and Sharma, A and Goyal, H and Pahuja, A and Solanki, D}, title = {Assessment of Fluoride Content in Water and Its Impact on the Intelligence Quotient of School Children Aged 12-13 Years.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {14}, number = {10}, pages = {e30157}, pmid = {36397910}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The preliminary study was undertaken with the aim to assess the effect of fluoride content in water on the Intelligence Quotient (IQ) of school children aged 12-13 years residing in areas that differ with respect to fluoride levels.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: The IQ was measured using Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices in 90 children, who were life-long residents in three villages (30 children each) of similar population size but differing in the level of fluoride in drinking water. Urinary fluoride concentration was measured using the selective ion electrode technique. One-way ANOVA was used for the statistical analysis of the data. Results: Children who lived in locations with fluoride levels of 1.60, 6.70, or 2.80 parts per million in their drinking water had urinary fluoride concentrations of 1.60, 6.82, or 2.69 parts per million, and IQ scores of 16.77 + 8.24, 19.36 + 9.98, or 21.87 + 7.47, respectively.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results indicated that there was a positive correlation between excess fluoride in drinking water and IQ.}, }
@article {pmid36378576, year = {2023}, author = {Martinez, A and Swaner, R and Ramdath, C and Kusiak Carey, K}, title = {Police, courts, and corrections: Experiences of procedural injustice among Black adults.}, journal = {American journal of community psychology}, volume = {71}, number = {1-2}, pages = {147-157}, doi = {10.1002/ajcp.12631}, pmid = {36378576}, issn = {1573-2770}, mesh = {Humans ; Adult ; *Police ; *Criminal Law ; Racial Groups ; Trust ; }, abstract = {Racial disparities and a corresponding lack of trust have been documented within the criminal legal system. In response, criminal legal system actors have sought to strengthen the legitimacy of their agencies. However, legitimizing these agencies can be problematic. Some argue that the current criminal legal system continues the legacy of slavery and Jim Crow as Blacks are disproportionately policed and incarcerated. As a framework, procedural injustice can offer a unique backdrop and interrogate ways in which the criminal legal system engages in delegitimizing actions that provoke noncompliance and enable social control. Using a procedural injustice lens, this study examines how justice-involved Black adults experience mistreatment by justice system actors. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 84 Black adults in Newark and Cleveland. Study findings offer a comprehensive account of how participants experience procedural injustice as arrestees, defendants, and incarcerated persons. More specifically, participant narratives describe deliberately antagonistic, abusive, and dehumanizing treatment by justice-system agents-often depicted as racially motivated. Participant accounts also describe this mistreatment as occurring in a context of coercion and powerlessness and as being institutionally sanctioned. Implications for the preservation of racial hierarchies, research, practice, and community psychology are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid36376297, year = {2022}, author = {Kirschhock, ME and Nieder, A}, title = {Number selective sensorimotor neurons in the crow translate perceived numerosity into number of actions.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {6913}, pmid = {36376297}, issn = {2041-1723}, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Crows ; Telencephalon/physiology ; Neurons/physiology ; Muscles ; }, abstract = {Translating a perceived number into a matching number of self-generated actions is a hallmark of numerical reasoning in humans and animals alike. To explore this sensorimotor transformation, we trained crows to judge numerical values in displays and to flexibly plan and perform a matching number of pecks. We report number selective sensorimotor neurons in the crow telencephalon that signaled the impending number of self-generated actions. Neuronal population activity during the sensorimotor transformation period predicted whether the crows mistakenly planned fewer or more pecks than instructed. During sensorimotor transformation, both a static neuronal code characterized by persistently number-selective neurons and a dynamic code originating from neurons carrying rapidly changing numerical information emerged. The findings indicate there are distinct functions of abstract neuronal codes supporting the sensorimotor number system.}, }
@article {pmid36376059, year = {2023}, author = {Gracia-Darder, I and Llull Ramos, A and Giacaman, A and Gómez Bellvert, C and Obrador-Hevia, A and Jubert Esteve, E and Martín-Santiago, A}, title = {Report of a case of RAVEN, hair heterochromia and autism in the setting of FGFR2 mutation.}, journal = {Pediatric dermatology}, volume = {40}, number = {2}, pages = {382-384}, doi = {10.1111/pde.15176}, pmid = {36376059}, issn = {1525-1470}, mesh = {Infant, Newborn ; Animals ; Humans ; *Crows ; *Autistic Disorder ; *Autism Spectrum Disorder ; *Nevus/pathology ; Mutation ; *Nevus, Sebaceous of Jadassohn ; Hair/pathology ; Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 2/genetics ; }, abstract = {A newborn presented with extensive rounded and velvety epidermal nevus (RAVEN) with a genetic study of the cutaneous lesions revealing a heterozygous mutation in FGFR2 (p.Cys382Arg). By 2 years of age, the patient developed hair heterochromia and autism spectrum disorder. Although RAVEN was initially associated with fibroblast growth factor 3 (FGFR3) mutations, three cases of RAVEN have been identified with mutations in FGFR2 (p.Ser252Trp) and one case of linear keratinocytic epidermal nevi has been identified with the same mutation as the mutation identified in our patient. This strongly supports the pathogenic role of these mutations.}, }
@article {pmid36371445, year = {2022}, author = {Chang, X and Zhao, W and Kang, J and Xiang, S and Xie, C and Corona-Hernández, H and Palaniyappan, L and Feng, J}, title = {Language abnormalities in schizophrenia: binding core symptoms through contemporary empirical evidence.}, journal = {Schizophrenia (Heidelberg, Germany)}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {95}, pmid = {36371445}, issn = {2754-6993}, support = {2018SHZDZX01//Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Commission)/ ; 21YF1402400//Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Commission)/ ; 82102138//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; }, abstract = {Both the ability to speak and to infer complex linguistic messages from sounds have been claimed as uniquely human phenomena. In schizophrenia, formal thought disorder (FTD) and auditory verbal hallucinations (AVHs) are manifestations respectively relating to concrete disruptions of those abilities. From an evolutionary perspective, Crow (1997) proposed that "schizophrenia is the price that Homo sapiens pays for the faculty of language". Epidemiological and experimental evidence points to an overlap between FTD and AVHs, yet a thorough investigation examining their shared neural mechanism in schizophrenia is lacking. In this review, we synthesize observations from three key domains. First, neuroanatomical evidence indicates substantial shared abnormalities in language-processing regions between FTD and AVHs, even in the early phases of schizophrenia. Second, neurochemical studies point to a glutamate-related dysfunction in these language-processing brain regions, contributing to verbal production deficits. Third, genetic findings further show how genes that overlap between schizophrenia and language disorders influence neurodevelopment and neurotransmission. We argue that these observations converge into the possibility that a glutamatergic dysfunction in language-processing brain regions might be a shared neural basis of both FTD and AVHs. Investigations of language pathology in schizophrenia could facilitate the development of diagnostic tools and treatments, so we call for multilevel confirmatory analyses focused on modulations of the language network as a therapeutic goal in schizophrenia.}, }
@article {pmid36364754, year = {2022}, author = {Carvalho, IP and Peixoto, B and Caldas, JC and Costa, A and Silva, S and Moreira, B and Almeida, A and Moreira-Rosário, A and Guerra, A and Delerue-Matos, C and Sintra, D and Pestana, D and Pinto, E and Mendes, FC and Martins, I and Leite, JC and Fontoura, M and Maia, ML and Queirós, P and Moreira, R and Leal, S and Norberto, S and Costa, V and Fernandes, VC and Keating, E and Azevedo, L and Calhau, C}, title = {Association between Elevated Iodine Intake and IQ among School Children in Portugal.}, journal = {Nutrients}, volume = {14}, number = {21}, pages = {}, pmid = {36364754}, issn = {2072-6643}, support = {POCI-01-0145-FEDER-007746//EEA Grants/ ; SFRH/BPD/109158/2015//Funda&#xe7;&#xe3;o para a Ci&#xea;ncia e Tecnologia/ ; SFRH/BPD/109153/2015//Funda&#xe7;&#xe3;o para a Ci&#xea;ncia e Tecnologia/ ; UIDB/50006/2020//Funda&#xe7;&#xe3;o para a Ci&#xea;ncia e Tecnologia/ ; UIDP/50006/2020//Funda&#xe7;&#xe3;o para a Ci&#xea;ncia e Tecnologia/ ; LA/P/0008/2020//Funda&#xe7;&#xe3;o para a Ci&#xea;ncia e Tecnologia/ ; PT06//the Public Health Initiatives Programme/ ; UIDP/4255/2020//Funda&#xe7;&#xe3;o para a Ci&#xea;ncia e Tecnologia/ ; }, mesh = {Child ; Humans ; Child, Preschool ; Creatinine/urine ; Portugal ; *Iodine/urine ; Nutritional Status ; Intelligence Tests ; Iodides ; }, abstract = {The goal of this work was to examine whether elevated iodine intake was associated with adverse effects on IQ among school-age children in Portugal. In a representative sample of children from the north of the country, IQ percentiles by age (assessed with Raven’s Colored Progressive Matrices) were dichotomized to <50 (“below-average” IQs) and ≥50. Morning urine iodine concentrations, corrected for creatinine, were dichotomized to <250 µg/g and ≥250 µg/g, according to the European Commission/Scientific Committee on Food’s tolerable upper level of daily iodine intake for young children. Data were examined with Chi-square tests, logistic regression, and GLM univariate analysis. The sample (N = 1965) was classified as generally iodine-adequate (median urinary iodine concentration = 129 µg/L; median iodine-to-creatinine ratio = 126 µg/g) according to the WHO’s criteria. A greater proportion of children in the ≥250 µg/g group had below-average IQs, compared to children with less than 250 µg/g (p = 0.037), despite a sizable (though non-significant) proportion of children in the less-than-250 µg/g group also presenting below-average IQs, at the bottom of the iodine distribution (<50 µg/g). The proportion of below-average IQs increased with increasingly elevated iodine concentrations (p = 0.047). The association remained significant after the adjustment for confounders, with the elevated iodine group showing increased odds of having below-average IQs when compared with the non-elevated iodine group (OR 1.55; 95% CI 1.11−2.17; p = 0.011). Consistently, the former group presented a lower mean IQ than the latter (p = 0.006). High iodine intake was associated with lower IQs even in a population classified as iodine-adequate. These results bear on child cognition and on initiatives involving iodine supplementation.}, }
@article {pmid36359019, year = {2022}, author = {Guo, S and Wu, W and Liu, Y and Kang, X and Li, C}, title = {Effects of Valley Topography on Acoustic Communication in Birds: Why Do Birds Avoid Deep Valleys in Daqinggou Nature Reserve?.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {12}, number = {21}, pages = {}, pmid = {36359019}, issn = {2076-2615}, support = {No. 2022xjkk0802//The Ministry of Science and Technology of China/ ; No. 2019HJ2096001006//The Ministry of Ecology and Environment of China/ ; }, abstract = {To investigate the effects of valley topography on the acoustic transmission of avian vocalisations, we carried out playback experiments in Daqinggou valley, Inner Mongolia, China. During the experiments, we recorded the vocalisations of five avian species, the large-billed crow (Corvus macrorhynchos Wagler, 1827), common cuckoo (Cuculus canorus Linnaeus, 1758), Eurasian magpie (Pica pica Linnaeus, 1758), Eurasian tree sparrow (Passer montanus Linnaeus, 1758), and meadow bunting (Emberiza cioides Brand, 1843), at transmission distances of 30 m and 50 m in the upper and lower parts of the valley and analysed the intensity, the fundamental frequency (F0), and the first three formant frequencies (F1/F2/F3) of the sounds. We also investigated bird species diversity in the upper and lower valley. We found that: (1) at the distance of 30 m, there were significant differences in F0/F1/F2/F3 in Eurasian magpies, significant differences in F1/F2/F3 in the meadow bunting and Eurasian tree sparrow, and partially significant differences in sound frequency between the upper and lower valley in the other two species; (2) at the distance of 50 m, there were significant differences in F0/F1/F2/F3 in two avian species (large-billed crow and common cuckoo) between the upper and lower valley and partially significant differences in sound frequency between the upper and lower valley in the other three species; (2) there were significant differences in the acoustic intensities of crow, cuckoo, magpie, and bunting calls between the upper and lower valley. (3) Species number and richness were significantly higher in the upper valley than in the lower valley. We suggested that the structure of valley habitats may lead to the breakdown of acoustic signals and communication in birds to varying degrees. The effect of valley topography on acoustic communication could be one reason for animal species avoiding deep valleys.}, }
@article {pmid36358981, year = {2022}, author = {Lu, H and Kerkhoven, EJ and Nielsen, J}, title = {A Pan-Draft Metabolic Model Reflects Evolutionary Diversity across 332 Yeast Species.}, journal = {Biomolecules}, volume = {12}, number = {11}, pages = {}, pmid = {36358981}, issn = {2218-273X}, mesh = {Phylogeny ; *Yeasts/genetics ; *Genomics/methods ; Phenotype ; Genome ; }, abstract = {Yeasts are increasingly employed in synthetic biology as chassis strains, including conventional and non-conventional species. It is still unclear how genomic evolution determines metabolic diversity among various yeast species and strains. In this study, we constructed draft GEMs for 332 yeast species using two alternative procedures from the toolbox RAVEN v 2.0. We found that draft GEMs could reflect the difference in yeast metabolic potentials, and therefore, could be utilized to probe the evolutionary trend of metabolism among 332 yeast species. We created a pan-draft metabolic model to account for the metabolic capacity of every sequenced yeast species by merging all draft GEMs. Further analysis showed that the pan-reactome of yeast has a "closed" property, which confirmed the great conservatism that exists in yeast metabolic evolution. Lastly, the quantitative correlations among trait similarity, evolutionary distances, genotype, and model similarity were thoroughly investigated. The results suggest that the evolutionary distance and genotype, to some extent, determine model similarity, but not trait similarity, indicating that multiple mechanisms shape yeast trait evolution. A large-scale reconstruction and integrative analysis of yeast draft GEMs would be a valuable resource to probe the evolutionary mechanism behind yeast trait variety and to further refine the existing yeast species-specific GEMs for the community.}, }
@article {pmid36353077, year = {2022}, author = {Chevrier, B and Lamore, K and Untas, A and Dorard, G}, title = {Young adult carers' identification, characteristics, and support: A systematic review.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {990257}, pmid = {36353077}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Young Adult Carers (YAC) are informal carers aged 18-25 years. This is an unrecognized population. The present systematic review aims to respond to: (1) how YAC are identified in research; (2) the prevalence of YAC; (3) the characteristics of YAC; and (4) how to support YAC. Five electronic databases (Google Scholar, PsycArticle, PsycInfo, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, and PubMed) were searched for studies, scientific articles, and gray literature on YAC published prior to January 18, 2021. The quality of included studies was assessed using the Crow Critical Appraisal Tool, and a narrative method was used to underline major findings. Twenty-three studies were included and revealed that there were several ways to identify YAC, resulting in heterogeneous prevalence. Nine themes were highlighted for YAC characteristics (way into caring; care receiver; caring responsibilities; amount of caring; self-identification as a carer; living arrangement; physical, psychological, and adaptative outcomes; interpersonal relationships; education and employment); and three for YAC support (needs, available support services, and recommendations). The findings showed the diversity of YAC experiences. Although YAC expressed several needs, there are few or no support services devoted to them. More research is needed to improve political awareness.<br><br>https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021231882, identifier: CRD42021231882.}, }
@article {pmid36342250, year = {2022}, author = {Cohen, JL and Fagien, S and Ogilvie, P and De Boulle, K and Carruthers, J and Cox, SE and Kelly, R and Garcia, JK and Sangha, S}, title = {High Patient Satisfaction for up to 6 Months With OnabotulinumtoxinA Treatment for Upper Facial Lines.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {48}, number = {11}, pages = {1191-1197}, pmid = {36342250}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A/adverse effects ; *Cosmetic Techniques/psychology ; Forehead ; Neuromuscular Agents/adverse effects ; *Patient Satisfaction ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic ; Middle Aged ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: OnabotulinumtoxinA safety and efficacy are well established for upper facial lines (UFL), including forehead lines (FHL), glabellar lines (GL), and crow's feet lines (CFL).<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association of onabotulinumtoxinA efficacy with patient-reported psychological impacts and satisfaction in UFL.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: A pooled analysis of data from 4 pivotal Phase 3 trials (onabotulinumtoxinA vs placebo in FHL &#xb1; GL, FHL + GL &#xb1; CFL, CFL, and CFL + GL for &#x2264;180 days) evaluated investigator-assessed &#x2265;1-grade severity improvement on the Allergan Facial Wrinkle Scale at Day 30 (responders). Facial Line Outcomes (FLO-11) Questionnaire, Facial Line Satisfaction Questionnaire (FLSQ), and Subject Assessment of Satisfaction of Appearance (SASA) were used to evaluate responder appearance-related psychological impacts and satisfaction.<br><br>RESULTS: OnabotulinumtoxinA patients, by primary study focus (FHL, GL, or CFL), totaled 921, 921, and 833, respectively; 786 patients received placebo. Most patients were female, White, and aged 45 to 50 years (median). Through 150 days, >42% FHL, >43% GL, and &#x2265;32% CFL patients were onabotulinumtoxinA responders. Responders reported improvements in appearance-related psychological impacts (FLO-11) and high satisfaction (FLSQ and SASA), sustained through &#x2265;150 days.<br><br>CONCLUSION: A &#x2265;1-grade improvement with onabotulinumtoxinA is a clinically meaningful outcome in UFL, associated with long-lasting improved patient-reported psychological impacts and high satisfaction.}, }
@article {pmid36334647, year = {2022}, author = {Hahn, LA and Balakhonov, D and Lundqvist, M and Nieder, A and Rose, J}, title = {Oscillations without cortex: Working memory modulates brainwaves in the endbrain of crows.}, journal = {Progress in neurobiology}, volume = {219}, number = {}, pages = {102372}, pmid = {36334647}, issn = {1873-5118}, mesh = {Animals ; Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; *Crows ; Telencephalon ; *Brain Waves ; Prefrontal Cortex/physiology ; Mammals ; }, abstract = {Complex cognition requires coordinated neuronal activity at the network level. In mammals, this coordination results in distinct dynamics of local field potentials (LFP) central to many models of higher cognition. These models often implicitly assume a cortical organization. Higher associative regions of the brains of birds do not have cortical layering, yet single-cell correlates of higher cognition are very similar to those found in mammals. We recorded LFP in the avian equivalent of prefrontal cortex while crows performed a highly controlled and cognitively demanding working memory task. We found signatures in local field potentials, modulated by working memory. Frequencies of a narrow gamma and the beta band contained information about the location of target items and were modulated by working memory load. This indicates a critical involvement of these bands in ongoing cognitive processing. We also observed bursts in the beta and gamma frequencies, similar to those that play a vital part in 'activity silent' models of working memory. Thus, despite the lack of a cortical organization the avian associative pallium can create LFP signatures reminiscent of those observed in primates. This points towards a critical cognitive function of oscillatory dynamics evolved through convergence in species capable of complex cognition.}, }
@article {pmid36322648, year = {2022}, author = {Liao, DA and Brecht, KF and Johnston, M and Nieder, A}, title = {Recursive sequence generation in crows.}, journal = {Science advances}, volume = {8}, number = {44}, pages = {eabq3356}, pmid = {36322648}, issn = {2375-2548}, abstract = {Recursion, the process of embedding structures within similar structures, is often considered a foundation of symbolic competence and a uniquely human capability. To understand its evolution, we can study the recursive aptitudes of nonhuman animals. We adopted the behavioral protocol of a recent study demonstrating that humans and nonhuman primates grasp recursion. We presented sequences of bracket pair stimuli (e.g., [ ] and { }) to crows who were instructed to peck at training lists. They were then tested on their ability to transfer center-embedded structure to never-before-seen pairings of brackets. We reveal that crows have recursive capacities; they perform on par with children and even outperform macaques. The crows continued to produce recursive sequences after extending to longer and thus deeper embeddings. These results demonstrate that recursive capabilities are not limited to the primate genealogy and may have occurred separately from or before human symbolic competence in different animal taxa.}, }
@article {pmid36319372, year = {2022}, author = {Datta, R and Russell, DR and Tang, I and Clayson, T and Suttle, LG and Chittenden, JP and Lebedev, SV and Hare, JD}, title = {Time-resolved velocity and ion sound speed measurements from simultaneous bow shock imaging and inductive probe measurements.}, journal = {The Review of scientific instruments}, volume = {93}, number = {10}, pages = {103530}, doi = {10.1063/5.0098823}, pmid = {36319372}, issn = {1089-7623}, abstract = {We present a technique to measure the time-resolved velocity and ion sound speed in magnetized, supersonic high-energy-density plasmas. We place an inductive ("b-dot") probe in a supersonic pulsed-power-driven plasma flow and measure the magnetic field advected by the plasma. As the magnetic Reynolds number is large (RM > 10), the plasma flow advects a magnetic field proportional to the current at the load. This enables us to estimate the flow velocity as a function of time from the delay between the current at the load and the signal at the probe. The supersonic flow also generates a hydrodynamic bow shock around the probe, the structure of which depends on the upstream sonic Mach number. By imaging the shock around the probe with a Mach-Zehnder interferometer, we determine the upstream Mach number from the shock Mach angle, which we then use to determine the ion sound speed from the known upstream velocity. We use the sound speed to infer the value of Z̄Te, where Z̄ is the average ionization and Te is the electron temperature. We use this diagnostic to measure the time-resolved velocity and sound speed of a supersonic (MS ∼ 8), super-Alfvénic (MA ∼ 2) aluminum plasma generated during the ablation stage of an exploding wire array on the Magpie generator (1.4 MA, 250 ns). The velocity and Z̄Te measurements agree well with the optical Thompson scattering measurements reported in the literature and with 3D resistive magnetohydrodynamic simulations in GORGON.}, }
@article {pmid36314150, year = {2022}, author = {Schnell, AK and Boeckle, M and Clayton, NS}, title = {Waiting for a better possibility: delay of gratification in corvids and its relationship to other cognitive capacities.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {377}, number = {1866}, pages = {20210348}, pmid = {36314150}, issn = {1471-2970}, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; Pleasure ; *Passeriformes ; *Self-Control ; Pan troglodytes ; *Songbirds ; Cognition ; }, abstract = {Self-control, the ability to resist temptation and wait for better but delayed possibilities, is an important cognitive skill that underpins decision-making and planning. The capacity to exert self-control has been linked to intelligence in humans, chimpanzees and most recently cuttlefish. Here, we presented 10 Eurasian jays, Garrulus glandarius, with a delayed maintenance task, which measured the ability to choose a preferred outcome as well as the ability to sustain the delay prior to that outcome. Jays were able to wait for better possibilities, but maximum wait times varied across the subjects. We also presented them with five cognitive tasks that assessed spatial memory, spatial relationships and learning capacity. These tasks are commonly used as measures of general intelligence within an ecological context. Individual performance was correlated across the cognitive tasks, which suggests that there was a general intelligence factor underlying their performance. Performance in these tasks was correlated significantly with the jays' capacity to wait for better possibilities. This study demonstrates that self-control and intelligence are correlated in jays. The fact that this correlation exists in diverse species suggests that self-control is a fundamental feature of cognition. Our results are discussed in the context of convergent evolution. This article is part of the theme issue 'Thinking about possibilities: mechanisms, ontogeny, functions and phylogeny'.}, }
@article {pmid36313263, year = {2023}, author = {Zhao, S and Wang, P and Heidari, AA and Zhao, X and Chen, H}, title = {Boosted crow search algorithm for handling multi-threshold image problems with application to X-ray images of COVID-19.}, journal = {Expert systems with applications}, volume = {213}, number = {}, pages = {119095}, pmid = {36313263}, issn = {0957-4174}, abstract = {COVID-19 is pervasive and threatens the safety of people around the world. Therefore, now, a method is needed to diagnose COVID-19 accurately. The identification of COVID-19 by X-ray images is a common method. The target area is extracted from the X-ray images by image segmentation to improve classification efficiency and help doctors make a diagnosis. In this paper, we propose an improved crow search algorithm (CSA) based on variable neighborhood descent (VND) and information exchange mutation (IEM) strategies, called VMCSA. The original CSA quickly falls into the local optimum, and the possibility of finding the best solution is significantly reduced. Therefore, to help the algorithm avoid falling into local optimality and improve the global search capability of the algorithm, we introduce VND and IEM into CSA. Comparative experiments are conducted at CEC2014 and CEC'21 to demonstrate the better performance of the proposed algorithm in optimization. We also apply the proposed algorithm to multi-level thresholding image segmentation using Renyi's entropy as the objective function to find the optimal threshold, where we construct 2-D histograms with grayscale images and non-local mean images and maximize the Renyi's entropy on top of the 2-D histogram. The proposed segmentation method is evaluated on X-ray images of COVID-19 and compared with some algorithms. VMCSA has a significant advantage in segmentation results and obtains better robustness than other algorithms. The available extra info can be found at https://github.com/1234zsw/VMCSA.}, }
@article {pmid36308912, year = {2022}, author = {Ioan, I and Weick, D and Sevin, F and Sanlaville, D and De Fréminville, B and Schweitzer, C and Akkari, M and Coutier, L and Putois, B and Plancoulaine, S and Thieux, M and Franco, P}, title = {Neurocognitive evaluation of children with down syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.}, journal = {Sleep medicine}, volume = {100}, number = {}, pages = {542-549}, doi = {10.1016/j.sleep.2022.09.009}, pmid = {36308912}, issn = {1878-5506}, mesh = {Child ; Male ; Humans ; Child, Preschool ; Adolescent ; Female ; *Down Syndrome/complications ; *Sleep Apnea, Obstructive/complications/diagnosis ; Polysomnography ; Sleep ; Arousal ; }, abstract = {Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) treatment has been shown to improve cardiac behavioral and cognitive functions in typically developing children. Early OSAS diagnosis in children with Down syndrome (DS) would be important to prevent its complications, especially cognitive ones, but remains overlooked. The main objective of our study was to assess the cognitive function of children with DS, with and without OSAS. The second objective was to determine the impact of the therapeutic intervention on the cognitive function of children with OSAS. This study included 41 children with DS who underwent polysomnography for OSAS diagnosis and a cognitive evaluation. They were aged between 3.4 and 17.3 years and 24 (59%) were boys. Their median OAHI was 2.6 (0-31)/h of sleep, 30 (73%) were diagnosed with OSAS (15 had mild OSAS, and 15 had moderate/severe OSAS). Some scores of the Raven's colored progressive matrices were negatively correlated with the respiratory arousal index, OAHI tended to be positively correlated with Reiss behavioral problems. 24 (59%) patients received a treatment. Even if we were unable to demonstrate this formally due that only 16 children (39%) accepted a follow-up visit, some displayed improvement in their neuropsychological scores, especially those with moderate/severe OSAS after treatment. Children with DS have low intellectual abilities and more risk of developing OSAS compared to the general population, which may lead to further neurocognitive impairment. Early screening and management are important in this population to prevent any further neurocognitive delay in their development.}, }
@article {pmid36308261, year = {2022}, author = {Nwatah, VE and Ahmed, PA and Audu, LI and Okolo, SN}, title = {Socio-demographic factors influencing measures of cognitive function of early adolescent students in abuja, Nigeria.}, journal = {The Nigerian postgraduate medical journal}, volume = {29}, number = {4}, pages = {317-324}, doi = {10.4103/npmj.npmj_157_22}, pmid = {36308261}, issn = {1117-1936}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Humans ; Male ; Female ; *Intelligence/physiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Nigeria ; *Students ; Cognition/physiology ; Demography ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The brain in the early adolescent period undergoes enhanced changes with the radical reorganisation of the neuronal network leading to improvement in cognitive capacity. A complex interplay exists between environment and genetics that influences the outcome of intellectual capability. We, therefore, aimed to evaluate the relationship between socio-demographic variables and measures of cognitive function (intelligence quotient [IQ] and academic performance) of early adolescents.<br><br>METHODS: The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study of early adolescents aged 10-14 years. Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices was used to assess the IQ and academic performance was assessed by obtaining the average of all the subjects' scores in the last three terms that made up an academic year. A confidence interval of 95% was assumed and a value of P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.<br><br>RESULTS: The overall mean (standard deviation) age of the study population was 11.1 years (&#xb1;1.3) with male-to-female ratio of 1:1. Female sex was associated with better academic performance with P = 0.004. The students with optimal IQ performance were more likely (61.7%) to perform above average than those with sub-optimal IQ performance (28.6%). As the mother's age increased, the likelihood of having optimal IQ performance increased 1.04 times (odds ratio [OR] = 1.04; 95 confidence interval [CI] = 1.01-1.07). Students in private schools were three times more likely to have optimal IQ performance than those from public schools (OR = 2.79; 95 CI = 1.65-4.71).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The present study demonstrated that students' IQ performance and the female gender were associated with above-average academic performance. The predictors of optimal IQ performance found in this study were students' age, maternal age and school type.}, }
@article {pmid36300140, year = {2022}, author = {Takeda, K and Takahashi, N and Izawa, EI}, title = {Social encounters produce different autonomic response between dominants and subordinates in crows.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {9}, number = {10}, pages = {220972}, pmid = {36300140}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {Recent studies of behavioural physiology on animals have suggested the crucial role of peripherally physiological signals in eliciting arousal and emotion. Heart rate (HR) is one of the useful and critical signals to measure autonomic regulation as a physiological basis for arousal and emotion in response to biologically significant stimuli such as social encounter with conspecific individuals. However, our understanding of peripherally physiological response such as HRs and autonomic activities under social contexts of non-human animals is still limited, particularly in birds. Here, we examined the autonomic activity of behaving crows exposed to a dominant and a subordinate conspecific by using non-invasive electrocardiogram recording. We found different patterns of autonomic responses dependent on the relative dominance position: dominant crows encountering subordinates showed the elevation of sympathetic activity, whereas subordinates encountering dominants showed decreased HR with elevated parasympathetic activity. This is the first study in birds to report different autonomic responses dependent on relative dominance positions during dyadic social encounters. The present study advances our understanding of the role of the peripheral autonomic system, as an interactive system with the brain, in eliciting emotion/arousal associated with socially challenging environments from an evolutionary perspective.}, }
@article {pmid36298892, year = {2022}, author = {Román-García, DA and Maldonado-Villamizar, FH and Jaramillo-Ávila, B and Rodríguez-Lara, BM}, title = {Non-local scattering control in coupled resonator networks.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {30}, number = {22}, pages = {39382-39395}, doi = {10.1364/OE.472455}, pmid = {36298892}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {We demonstrate scattering control of Gaussian-like wave packets propagating with constant envelope velocity and invariant waist through coupled resonator optical waveguides (CROW) via an external resonator coupled to multiple sites of the CROW. We calculate the analytical reflectance and transmittance using standard scattering methods from waveguide quantum electrodynamics and show it is possible to approximate them for an external resonator detuned to the CROW. Our analytical and approximate results are in good agreement with numerical simulations. We engineer various configurations using an external resonator coupled to two sites of a CROW to show light trapping with effective exponential decay between the coupling sites, wave packet splitting into two pairs of identical Gaussian-like wave packets, and a non-local Mach-Zehnder interferometer.}, }
@article {pmid36298722, year = {2022}, author = {Isoda, N and Onuma, M and Hiono, T and Sobolev, I and Lim, HY and Nabeshima, K and Honjyo, H and Yokoyama, M and Shestopalov, A and Sakoda, Y}, title = {Detection of New H5N1 High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Viruses in Winter 2021-2022 in the Far East, Which Are Genetically Close to Those in Europe.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {14}, number = {10}, pages = {}, pmid = {36298722}, issn = {1999-4915}, mesh = {Animals ; *Influenza in Birds/epidemiology ; *Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype ; Hemagglutinins ; Virulence ; Seasons ; Chickens ; Phylogeny ; *Influenza A virus/genetics ; Animals, Wild ; Europe/epidemiology ; Asia, Eastern/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Many high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) cases in wild birds due to H5N1 HPAI virus (HPAIV) infection were reported in northern Japan in the winter of 2021-2022. To investigate the epidemiology of HPAIVs brought to Japan from surrounding areas, a genetic analysis of H5 HPAIVs isolated in northern Japan was performed, and the pathogenicity of the HPAIV in chickens was assessed by experimental infection. Based on the genetic analysis of the hemagglutinin gene, pathogenic viruses detected in northern Japan as well as one in Sakhalin, the eastern part of Russia, were classified into the same subgroup as viruses prevalent in Europe in the same season but distinct from those circulating in Asia in winter 2020-2021. High identities of all eight segment sequences of A/crow/Hokkaido/0103B065/2022 (H5N1) (Crow/Hok), the representative isolates in northern Japan in 2022, to European isolates in the same season could also certify the unlikeliness of causing gene reassortment between H5 HPAIVs and viruses locally circulating in Asia. According to intranasal challenge results in six-week-old chickens, 50% of the chicken-lethal dose of Crow/Hok was calculated as 10[4.5] times of the 50% egg-infectious dose. These results demonstrated that the currently prevalent H5 HPAIVs could spread widely from certain origins throughout the Eurasian continent, including Europe and the Far East, and implied a possibility that contagious viruses are gathered in lakes in the northern territory via bird migration. Active monitoring of wild birds at the global level is essential to estimate the geographical source and spread dynamics of HPAIVs.}, }
@article {pmid36290411, year = {2022}, author = {Bailote, HB and Linhares, D and Carvalho, C and Prazeres, S and Rodrigues, AS and Garcia, P}, title = {Iodine Intake and Related Cognitive Function Impairments in Elementary Schoolchildren.}, journal = {Biology}, volume = {11}, number = {10}, pages = {}, pmid = {36290411}, issn = {2079-7737}, support = {M3.1.a/F/004/2018//Fundo Regional da Ci&#xea;ncia e Tecnologia/ ; }, abstract = {Iodine deficiency, the most common cause of preventable mental impairment worldwide, has been linked to poorer intellectual function in several studies. However, to our knowledge, no studies have been performed in moderate iodine-deficient schoolchildren using the complete form of Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-III; Portuguese version). The main purpose of this study was to ascertain whether moderate iodine deficiency would affect the cognitive function of schoolchildren (7-11 years old; 3rd and 4th grades). Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (CPM; Portuguese version) were used for measuring the intelligence quotient (IQ) of the total population (n = 256; median UIC = 66.2 μg/L), and the WISC-III was used to study two selected subgroups: one moderately iodine-deficient (n = 30) and the other with adequate iodine intake (n = 30). WISC-III was shown to be the prime instrument for cognitive function assessment among moderate iodine-deficient schoolchildren; this subgroup had a Full-Scale IQ 15.13 points lower than the adequate iodine intake subgroup, with a magnitude effect of d = 0.7 (p = 0.013). Significant differences were also registered in 6 of the 13 Verbal-Performance IQ subtests. Moderate iodine deficiency has a substantial impact on mental development and cognitive functioning of schoolchildren, with significant impairment in both Performance IQ and Verbal IQ spectrum, adversely impacting their educational performance.}, }
@article {pmid36290239, year = {2022}, author = {Wu, T and Ma, X and Wang, F and Xie, L and Lv, Q and Zeng, M and Xu, Y and Qin, S and Chang, Q}, title = {First Description of the Mitogenome Features of Neofoleyellides Genus (Nematoda: Onchocercidae) Isolated from a Wild Bird (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax).}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {12}, number = {20}, pages = {}, pmid = {36290239}, issn = {2076-2615}, support = {32072885//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; NTF21043//STU Scientific Research Foundation for Talents/ ; }, abstract = {The Onchocercidae family is composed of more than 30 valid nematode species with notable zoonotic potential. Current limitations in molecular characterization methods and species identification are the main obstacles to a better understanding of the biology of Onchocercidae species, particularly in wildlife. This study describes for the first time the complete mitochondrial (mt) genome sequence of Neofoleyellides sp. isolated from a wild bird (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax) and belonging to the Neofoleyellides genus (Nematoda: Onchocercidae). The mt genome of Neofoleyellides sp. (GenBank accession number: ON641583) was a typical circular DNA molecule of 13,628 bp in size with an AT content of 76.69%. The complete mt genome comprised 36 functional subunits, including 12 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 2 ribosomal RNA genes, and 22 transfer RNA genes. The most common start codon was ATT/ATG except for nad2 with TTG, and TAA was the termination codon for all protein-coding genes (PCGs). Phylogenetic analysis of the concatenated and aligned amino acid sequences of the 12 PCGs showed that the trees generated using different methods (Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood) with different partition schemes shared similar topologies. The isolated Neofoleyellides sp. was placed in the Onchocercidae family and formed a sister branch with the genera Onchocerca and Dirofilaria. The entire mt genome of Neofoleyellides sp. presented in this study could provide useful data for studying the population genetics and phylogenetic relationships of Onchocercidae species.}, }
@article {pmid36288670, year = {2022}, author = {Burris, WM and Kinziger, AP and Black, JM and Brown, RN}, title = {KNEMIDOKOPTES MITES AND THEIR EFFECTS ON THE GRIPPING POSITION OF THE FEET OF STELLER'S JAYS (CYANOCITTA STELLERI).}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {58}, number = {4}, pages = {859-868}, doi = {10.7589/JWD-D-22-00016}, pmid = {36288670}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; *Electron Transport Complex IV/genetics ; }, abstract = {Steller's Jays (Cyanocitta stelleri) with swollen legs and feet resembling the signs of scaly leg have been commonly seen around Arcata, California, US. The clinical signs are thought to be caused by knemidokoptic mites, a group of parasites specialized on avian hosts. Between February 2019 and March 2020, we analyzed the long-term database of Steller's Jays collected by Humboldt State University for trends in the prevalence of signs of scaly leg, compared the gripping position in the feet of Steller's Jays with variable signs of this condition as an index of their ability to perch, identified the mites using a partial sequence of the cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene, and examined genetic distances between mites collected from different host species both sequenced in this study and from GenBank. Overall, 27% of jays recorded in the long-term database had shown signs of scaly leg. Jays with signs captured in this study had greater variability in and a reduced degree of contraction in the gripping position of their feet compared to jays without signs, suggesting that infestation may have an impact on the host's ability to perch. The cytochrome oxidase subunit I sequence (578 base pairs) from mites collected from Steller's Jays was compared to sequences from Knemidokoptes jamaicensis, Knemidokoptes derooi, and to unidentified Knemidokoptes spp. collected from different hosts. The mites from Steller's Jays were most closely related to Knemidokoptes jamaicensis but had a relatively high sequence divergence, 7.8%, supporting the possibility that the form infesting these jays may be an undescribed species.}, }
@article {pmid36285494, year = {2022}, author = {Fielding, MW and Cunningham, CX and Buettel, JC and Stojanovic, D and Yates, LA and Jones, ME and Brook, BW}, title = {Dominant carnivore loss benefits native avian and invasive mammalian scavengers.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {289}, number = {1985}, pages = {20220521}, pmid = {36285494}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Cats ; Animals ; *Ecosystem ; Food Chain ; Predatory Behavior ; *Carnivora ; Birds ; Fishes ; }, abstract = {Scavenging by large carnivores is integral for ecosystem functioning by limiting the build-up of carrion and facilitating widespread energy flows. However, top carnivores have declined across the world, triggering trophic shifts within ecosystems. Here, we compare findings from previous work on predator decline against areas with recent native mammalian carnivore loss. Specifically, we investigate top-down control on utilization of experimentally placed carcasses by two mesoscavengers-the invasive feral cat and native forest raven. Ravens profited most from carnivore loss, scavenging for five times longer in the absence of native mammalian carnivores. Cats scavenged on half of all carcasses in the region without dominant native carnivores. This was eight times more than in areas where other carnivores were at high densities. All carcasses persisted longer than the three-week monitoring period in the absence of native mammalian carnivores, while in areas with high carnivore abundance, all carcasses were fully consumed. Our results reveal that top-carnivore loss amplifies impacts associated with carnivore decline-increased carcass persistence and carrion access for smaller scavengers. This suggests that even at low densities, native mammalian carnivores can fulfil their ecological functions, demonstrating the significance of global carnivore conservation and supporting management approaches, such as trophic rewilding.}, }
@article {pmid36285436, year = {2022}, author = {Storms, RF and Carere, C and Musters, R and van Gasteren, H and Verhulst, S and Hemelrijk, CK}, title = {Deterrence of birds with an artificial predator, the RobotFalcon.}, journal = {Journal of the Royal Society, Interface}, volume = {19}, number = {195}, pages = {20220497}, pmid = {36285436}, issn = {1742-5662}, mesh = {Animals ; *Predatory Behavior ; Birds ; *Charadriiformes ; Fear ; }, abstract = {Collisions between birds and airplanes can damage aircrafts, resulting in delays and cancellation of flights, costing the international civil aviation industry more than 1.4 billion US dollars annually. Driving away birds is therefore crucial, but the effectiveness of current deterrence methods is limited. Live avian predators can be an effective deterrent, because potential prey will not habituate to them, but live predators cannot be controlled entirely. Thus, there is an urgent need for new deterrence methods. We developed the RobotFalcon, a device modelled after the peregrine falcon, and tested its effectiveness to deter flocks of corvids, gulls, starlings and lapwings. We compared its effectiveness with that of a drone, and of conventional methods routinely applied at a military airbase. The RobotFalcon scared away bird flocks from fields immediately, and these fields subsequently remained free of bird flocks for hours. The RobotFalcon outperformed the drone and the best conventional method at the airbase (distress calls). Importantly, there was no evidence that bird flocks habituated to the RobotFalcon over the course of the fieldwork. We conclude that the RobotFalcon is a practical and ethical solution to drive away bird flocks with all advantages of live predators but without their limitations.}, }
@article {pmid36279234, year = {2022}, author = {Samoilova, YG and Matveeva, MV and Oleinik, OA and Tonkikh, OS and Kudlay, DA and Yapryntseva, MD and Vorozhtsova, IN}, title = {[Cerebral perfusion and tractography in obese children].}, journal = {Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova}, volume = {122}, number = {10}, pages = {96-101}, doi = {10.17116/jnevro202212210196}, pmid = {36279234}, issn = {1997-7298}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Humans ; Brain/diagnostic imaging/pathology ; Cerebrovascular Circulation ; *Diffusion Tensor Imaging/methods ; *Pediatric Obesity/complications/diagnostic imaging/pathology ; Perfusion ; *White Matter/diagnostic imaging/pathology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To study the relationship of the structure of the white matter of the brain, neurovascularization and cognitive functions in obese children and adolescents.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included 64 obese patients, aged 12-17 years, and 54 children without excess body weight. A general clinical examination, neuropsychological testing (the Raven's test with the calculation of IQ, MoCA, the Rey 15-Item Memory Test (RMT), 1 and 2), magnetic resonance imaging (MR) tractography and contrast-free perfusion of the brain were conducted.<br><br>RESULTS: Obese children and adolescents had both a decrease in scores on MoCA and the Raven's test, and in terms of IQ, while according to RMT-1, there were significant differences in the two groups, and in RMT-2 the results were comparable. Perfusion analysis showed a decrease in vascularization in the white matter area of the occipital lobe on the left and its increase in the temporal lobe area also on the left. When assessing the white matter according to MR tractography, a decrease in fractional anisotropy was noted in the area of the hook-shaped beam on the right and left, anterior and posterior commissural tracts. These changes were correlated with neuropsychological results.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In obese children and adolescents, there was a destruction of the integrity of the white matter and neurovascularization of the brain associated with a deficit of cognitive functions.}, }
@article {pmid36262611, year = {2022}, author = {Wang, Y and Song, J and Teng, Z}, title = {An Improved New Caledonian Crow Learning Algorithm for Global Function Optimization.}, journal = {Computational intelligence and neuroscience}, volume = {2022}, number = {}, pages = {9248771}, pmid = {36262611}, issn = {1687-5273}, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Crows ; Algorithms ; }, abstract = {The New Caledonian crow learning algorithm (NCCLA) is a novel metaheuristic algorithm inspired by the learning behavior of New Caledonian crows learning to make tools to obtain food. However, it suffers from the problems of easily falling into local optima and insufficient convergence accuracy and convergence precision. To further improve the convergence performance of NCCLA, an improved New Caledonian crow learning algorithm (INCCLA) is proposed in this paper. By determining the parent individuals based on the cosine similarity, the juveniles are guided to search toward different ranges to maintain the population diversity; a novel hybrid mechanism of complete and incomplete learning is proposed to balance the exploration and exploitation capabilities of the algorithm; the update strategy of juveniles and parent individuals is improved to enhance the convergence speed and precision of the algorithm. The test results of the CEC2013 and CEC2020 test suites show that, compared with the original NCCLA algorithm and four of the best metaheuristics to date, INCCLA has significant advantages in terms of convergence speed, convergence precision, and stability.}, }
@article {pmid36248595, year = {2022}, author = {Passarello, N and Varini, L and Liparoti, M and Troisi Lopez, E and Sorrentino, P and Alivernini, F and Gigliotta, O and Lucidi, F and Mandolesi, L}, title = {Boosting effect of regular sport practice in young adults: Preliminary results on cognitive and emotional abilities.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {957281}, pmid = {36248595}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Several studies have shown that physical exercise (PE) improves behavior and cognitive functioning, reducing the risk of various neurological diseases, protecting the brain from the detrimental effects of aging, facilitating body recovery after injuries, and enhancing self-efficacy and self-esteem. Emotion processing and regulation abilities are also widely acknowledged to be key to success in sports. In this study, we aim to prove that regular participation in sports enhances cognitive and emotional functioning in healthy individuals. A sample of 60 students (mean age = 22.12; SD = 2.40; M = 30), divided into sportive and sedentary, were subjected to a neuropsychological tests battery to assess their overall cognitive abilities (Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices, APM), verbal and graphic fluency (Word Fluency Task and modified Five Point Test, m-FPT), as well as their emotional awareness skills (Toronto Alexithymia Scale, TAS-20). Our results showed that sportive students performed better than sedentary ones in all cognitive tasks. Regarding emotional processing abilities, significant differences were found in the TAS-20 total score as well as in the Difficulty Describing Feelings (DDF) subscale and the Difficulty Identifying Feeling (DIF) subscale. Lastly, gender differences were found in the External-Oriented Thinking (EOT) subscale. Overall, our findings evidence that PE has positive effects on cognitive functioning and emotion regulation, suggesting how sports practice can promote mental health and wellbeing.}, }
@article {pmid36234318, year = {2022}, author = {Matsimbe, J and Dinka, M and Olukanni, D and Musonda, I}, title = {A Bibliometric Analysis of Research Trends in Geopolymer.}, journal = {Materials (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {15}, number = {19}, pages = {}, pmid = {36234318}, issn = {1996-1944}, abstract = {Geopolymer is an inorganic material formed through the chemical reaction of an aluminosilicate precursor and an alkaline or acidic activating solution. It is seen as a green new alternative binder to ordinary Portland cement (OPC) for sustainable infrastructure development. The strength of the unary or blended geopolymer product is dependent on the composition and properties of the polymeric gel influenced by the ratios of Al2O3/SiO2, CaO/SiO2, CaO/(SiO2 + Al2O3), Na2SiO3/NaOH, SiO2/Na2O, and liquid/binder (L/B). Essential scientific inquiry has been progressively addressed by utilizing expert assessment and research metrics. The network visualization of bibliometric co-occurrence and co-citations is of particular significance. The present study aims to highlight the trends and progress of the most influential publication sources, keywords, authors, articles, and countries in geopolymer research in the last 10 years. Bibliometric data were retrieved through Scopus and visualized in VOSviewer to create bibliometric networks. The yearly distribution and growth trends (April 2011-2022) of geopolymer, geopolymer mortar, and geopolymer concrete before (after) applying inclusion criteria were from 754 to 9887 (5186), 47 to 1374 (866), and 145 to 3721 (2253), respectively, attributed to the discoveries in more precursor materials such as laterite and the growing interest in fire and heat-resistant structures, water and wastewater treatment, cement and concrete, and brick manufacturing. The top three journals in terms of prestige for geopolymer publications were the Journal of Hazardous Materials with an impact factor equal to 14.224 and h-index equal to 307, Cement and Concrete Research with an impact factor equal to 11.958 and h-index equal to 239, and the Journal of Cleaner Production with an impact factor equal to 11.072 and h-index equal to 232. The top three journals in terms of average citation per document were Cement and Concrete Research (135.75), Materials and Design (75), and Cement and Concrete Composites (68.35). Keywords such as "geopolymers", "inorganic polymer", "geopolymer", "compressive strength", "fly ash", and "geopolymer concrete" had the highest occurrences in publications. John Provis-University of Sheffield, Prinya Chindaprasirt-Khon Kaen University, and Jay Sanjayan-Swinburne University of Technology had the highest total citations of 6377, 5626, and 4311, respectively. The highest number of publications were from China, India, Australia, the United States of America, and Malaysia. The bibliometric findings from this study can act as a tool for academicians and policymakers to exchange research expertise, collaborate on novel geopolymer research, and create innovative joint ventures.}, }
@article {pmid36226831, year = {2023}, author = {Majewski, GP and Marchesi, P and Bojanowski, K}, title = {Niacinamide + "Linefade" ameliorate crow's feet wrinkles and facial sagging in a split-face image analysis study.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {22}, number = {2}, pages = {708-709}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.15459}, pmid = {36226831}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Humans ; *Skin Aging ; Patient Satisfaction ; Diagnostic Imaging ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; }, }
@article {pmid36222936, year = {2023}, author = {Sollis, JG and Ashton, BJ and Speechley, EM and Ridley, AR}, title = {Repeated testing does not confound cognitive performance in the Western Australian magpie (Cracticus tibicen dorsalis).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {26}, number = {2}, pages = {579-588}, pmid = {36222936}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; *Passeriformes ; Cognition ; }, abstract = {A robust understanding of cognitive variation at the individual level is essential to understand selection for and against cognitive traits. Studies of animal cognition often assume that within-individual performance is highly consistent. When repeated tests of individuals have been conducted, the effects of test order (the overall sequence in which different tests are conducted) and test number (the ordinal number indicating when a specific test falls within a sequence)-in particular the potential for individual performance to improve with repeated testing-have received limited attention. In our study, we investigated test order and test number effects on individual performance in three inhibitory control tests in Western Australian magpies (Cracticus tibicen dorsalis). We presented adult magpies with three novel inhibitory control tasks (detour-reaching apparatuses) in random order to test whether experience of cognitive testing and the order in which the apparatuses were presented were predictors of cognitive performance. We found that neither test number nor test order had an effect on cognitive performance of individual magpies when presenting different variants of inhibitory control tasks. This suggests that repeated testing of the same cognitive trait, using causally identical but visually distinct cognitive tasks, does not confound cognitive performance. We recommend that repeated testing effects of cognitive performance in other species be studied to broadly determine the validity of repeated testing in animal cognition studies.}, }
@article {pmid36202786, year = {2022}, author = {Romeo, Z and Marino, M and Angrilli, A and Semenzato, I and Favaro, A and Magnolfi, G and Padovan, GB and Mantini, D and Spironelli, C}, title = {Altered language network lateralization in euthymic bipolar patients: a pilot study.}, journal = {Translational psychiatry}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {435}, pmid = {36202786}, issn = {2158-3188}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; *Bipolar Disorder/diagnostic imaging ; Brain/diagnostic imaging ; *Brain Mapping ; Female ; Humans ; Language ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Mania ; Middle Aged ; Pilot Projects ; }, abstract = {Bipolar patients (BD) in the euthymic phase show almost no symptoms, nevertheless possibility of relapse is still present. We expected to find a psychobiological trace of their vulnerability by analyzing a specific network-the Language Network (LN)-connecting many high-level processes and brain regions measured at rest. According to Crow's hypothesis on the key role of language in the origin of psychoses, we expected an altered asymmetry of the LN in euthymic BDs. Eighteen euthymic BD patients (10 females; age = 54.50 ± 11.38 years) and 16 healthy controls (HC) (8 females; age = 51.16 ± 11.44 years) underwent a functional magnetic resonance imaging scan at rest. The LN was extracted through independent component analysis. Then, LN time series was used to compute the fractional amplitude of the low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF) index, which was then correlated with clinical scales. Compared with HC, euthymic patients showed an altered LN with greater activation of Broca's area right homologous and anterior insula together with reduced activation of left middle temporal gyrus. The normalized fALFF analysis on BD patients' LN time series revealed that the Slow-5 fALFF band was positively correlated with residual mania symptoms but negatively associated with depression scores. In line with Crow's hypothesis postulating an altered language hemispheric asymmetry in psychoses, we revealed, in euthymic BD patients, a right shift involving both the temporal and frontal linguistic hubs. The fALFF applied to LN allowed us to highlight a number of significant correlations of this measure with residual mania and depression psychiatric symptoms.}, }
@article {pmid36178004, year = {2022}, author = {McElderry, RM and Paxton, EH and Nguyen, AV and Siers, SR}, title = {Predation thresholds for reintroduction of native avifauna following suppression of invasive Brown Treesnakes on Guam.}, journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America}, volume = {32}, number = {8}, pages = {e2716}, pmid = {36178004}, issn = {1939-5582}, mesh = {Animals ; *Predatory Behavior ; Guam ; *Birds ; }, abstract = {The brown treesnake (BTS) (Boiga irregularis) invasion on Guåhan (in English, Guam) led to the extirpation of nearly all native forest birds. In recent years, methods have been developed to reduce BTS abundance on a landscape scale. To help assess the prospects for the successful reintroduction of native birds to Guåhan following BTS suppression, we modeled bird population persistence based on their life history characteristics and relative sensitivity to BTS predation. We constructed individual-based models and simulated BTS predation in hypothetical founding populations for each of seven candidate bird species. We represented BTS predation risk in two steps: risk of being encountered and risk of mortality if encountered. We link encounter risk from the bird's perspective to snake contact rates at camera traps with live animal lures, the most direct practical means of estimating BTS predation risk. Our simulations support the well-documented fact that Guåhan's birds cannot persist with an uncontrolled population of BTS but do indicate that bird persistence in Guåhan's forests is possible with suppression short of total eradication. We estimate threshold BTS contact rates would need to be below 0.0002-0.0006 snake contacts per bird per night for these birds to persist on the landscape, which translates to an annual encounter probability of 0.07-0.20. We simulated the effects of snake-proof nest boxes for Sihek (Todiramphus cinnamominus) and Såli (Aplonis opaca), but the benefits were small relative to the overall variation in contact rate thresholds among species. This variation among focal bird species in sustainable predation levels can be used to prioritize species for reintroduction in a BTS-suppressed landscape, but variation among these species is narrow relative to the required reduction from current BTS levels, which may be four orders of magnitude higher (>0.18). Our modeling indicates that the required predation thresholds may need to be lower than have yet been demonstrated with current BTS management. Our predation threshold metric provides an important management tool to help estimate target BTS suppression levels that can be used to determine when bird reintroduction campaigns might begin and serves as a model for other systems to match predator control with reintroduction efforts.}, }
@article {pmid36174656, year = {2023}, author = {Pascali, M and Massarelli, O}, title = {The Temporal Subcutaneous Brow Lift with Orbicularis Oculi Muscle Elastic Flap: Technical Considerations, Systematic Review, and Terminology Standardization.}, journal = {Facial plastic surgery : FPS}, volume = {39}, number = {6}, pages = {691-702}, doi = {10.1055/a-1953-2304}, pmid = {36174656}, issn = {1098-8793}, mesh = {Humans ; Esthetics, Dental ; *Rhytidoplasty/methods ; Eyelids/surgery ; *Blepharoplasty/methods ; Facial Muscles/surgery ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: As the face ages, cosmetic changes in the periorbital region including eyebrow ptosis, sagging in the lateral temporo-orbital region with superior eyelid hooding, ptosis of orbicularis oculi muscle associated with drooping of the malar area with multiple "crow feets", a deeper lid-cheek junction, and malar festoons also occur. All these periorbital structures should be considered as a single anatomical entity.<br><br>METHODS: &#x2003;Numerous techniques have been described to correct brow aesthetics in facial rejuvenation. We report the senior author's (M.P.) current approach utilizing a temporal subcutaneous brow lift (TSBL) associated with an orbicularis oculi muscle (OOM) elastic flap. Furthermore, a systematic review of the literature was performed comparing the different surgical approaches striving to clarify its terminology. A total of 298 patients underwent this procedure in 4 years period. Of these, 230 patients, with at least 12 months of follow-up, were submitted to subjective and objective methods to evaluate the self-perception of scar and their overall aesthetic satisfaction. A committee of experts, blinded to each other's assessment, evaluated the same outcomes. Total eyebrow's tail lift was measured and recorded for each patients.<br><br>RESULTS: &#x2003;The most satisfying aspect of these techniques is the dramatic periorbital rejuvenation and preservation of the patient's original youthful identity. In fact, the postoperative results appear very natural and do not suffer from an "operated" look. This aspect is noticeable from both the surgeon's and the patient's perceptions. There were no major complications in any of the cases.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: &#x2003;The proposed TSBL with OOM elastic flap technique, in the hands of senior author (M.P.) has emerged as a reliable, effective, and highly reproducible method to treat sagging and aging of the lateral region of the orbit, even without associated blepharoplasties.}, }
@article {pmid36173469, year = {2023}, author = {Vanhooland, LC and Szabó, A and Bugnyar, T and Massen, JJM}, title = {A comparative study of mirror self-recognition in three corvid species.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {229-248}, pmid = {36173469}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {W 1262/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Phylogeny ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; *Crows ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; }, abstract = {Mirror self-recognition (MSR) assessed by the Mark Test has been the staple test for the study of animal self-awareness. When tested in this paradigm, corvid species return discrepant results, with only the Eurasian magpies and the Indian house crow successfully passing the test so far, whereas multiple other corvid species fail. The lack of replicability of these positive results and the large divergence in applied methodologies calls into question whether the observed differences are in fact phylogenetic or methodological, and, if so, which factors facilitate the expression of MSR in some corvids. In this study, we (1) present new results on the self-recognition abilities of common ravens, (2) replicate results of azure-winged magpies, and (3) compare the mirror responses and performances in the mark test of these two corvid species with a third corvid species: carrion crows, previously tested following the same experimental procedure. Our results show interspecies differences in the approach of and the response to the mirror during the mirror exposure phase of the experiment as well as in the subsequent mark test. However, the performances of these species in the Mark Test do not provide any evidence for their ability of self-recognition. Our results add to the ongoing discussion about the convergent evolution of MSR and we advocate for consistent methodologies and procedures in comparing this ability across species to advance this discussion.}, }
@article {pmid36160814, year = {2022}, author = {Rist, B and Pearce, AJ and Clarke, AC}, title = {Investigating the Psychophysiological Response to Grade One Muscular Injuries in Professional Australian Football Athletes.}, journal = {International journal of exercise science}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {1052-1063}, pmid = {36160814}, issn = {1939-795X}, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to examine Australian Football athletes' responses to a grade one muscular injury from a psychophysiological perspective to understand the strength of the association between stress, optimism, and cortisol. Forty-five players listed with one professional Australian Football club volunteered for this study. Inclusion criteria consisted of sustaining a muscular injury during the course of the season with four-weeks predicted recovery time (as diagnosed by club medical staff, n=9). The control group were age, position, and career history matched players from the same sample. Players were also matched for their personality (10-item Big Five Personality Inventory) and fluid intelligence (Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices). Injured players and matched controls completed perceived stress and optimism measures (paper-based questions) as well as salivary cortisol testing once per week for four weeks. Significant increases in cortisol (p=0.015) and perceived stress (p<0.001) were observed in injured players, along with a reduction in optimism (p<0.001) returning by week 4. A significant positive correlation was found between perceived stress and cortisol (r= 0.426), and significant negative correlations observed between optimism and cortisol r= -0.257 and perceived stress r= -0.391. This study showed that athletes were significantly stressed and less optimistic during the first two-weeks of recovery compared to matched controls. While not statistically significant, large effects observed in cortisol and stress in the week prior to returning to competition in the injured group suggest these results demonstrate that a multi-modality approach can improve understanding of psychophysiological stress following a grade one muscular injury in Australian Football athletes.}, }
@article {pmid36159164, year = {2022}, author = {Ngo, KM and Hosaka, T and Numata, S}, title = {Attitudes and preferences of wildlife and their relationship with childhood nature experience amongst residents in a tropical urban city.}, journal = {Urban ecosystems}, volume = {25}, number = {6}, pages = {1939-1948}, pmid = {36159164}, issn = {1083-8155}, abstract = {UNLABELLED: How people relate to biodiversity and whether they are supportive of conservation programs and policies has implications on global and local biodiversity conservation efforts. Nature experiences in childhood has been shown to be strongly correlated to positive attitudes towards nature and wildlife in adulthood. In this study, we examined wildlife experience, attitudes and willingness to coexist with 26 vertebrates and invertebrates amongst residents in a highly urbanized tropical city, Singapore. A total of 1004 respondents were surveyed and their childhood nature experience and various socioeconomic variables were obtained. The animals were grouped by their likeability and preferred habitat from the respondents' answers. Three main groups of animals were discerned - unfavorable animals, mammals, and favorable animals. Singapore residents generally had high direct experiences of animals that are common in urban settings, for both favorable and unfavorable animals, such as butterflies, dragonflies, crows and bees, but low direct experiences of forest-dependent wildlife. Animals that were well-liked and acceptable near homes include the common urban ones and some forest-dependent ones, while animals that were disliked included stinging insects (bees and hornets) and reptiles (snakes and water monitors). Structured equation modelling showed that both childhood nature experience and wildlife experience had strong effects on wildlife likeability and habitat preference. The apparent mismatch between greening policies and people's willingness to coexist with wildlife may be problematic as urban development further encroaches on forest habitats, and this study highlights the importance of preserving forest habitats so that young children and adults have opportunities to be exposed to them.<br><br>SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11252-022-01280-1.}, }
@article {pmid36153584, year = {2022}, author = {Olivotto, S and Duse, A and Bova, SM and Leonardi, V and Biganzoli, E and Milanese, A and Cereda, C and Bertoli, S and Previtali, R and Veggiotti, P}, title = {Glut1 deficiency syndrome throughout life: clinical phenotypes, intelligence, life achievements and quality of life in familial cases.}, journal = {Orphanet journal of rare diseases}, volume = {17}, number = {1}, pages = {365}, pmid = {36153584}, issn = {1750-1172}, mesh = {*Carbohydrate Metabolism, Inborn Errors/genetics ; Epilepsy/diagnosis/genetics ; Fatigue ; Glucose Transporter Type 1/genetics ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Migraine Disorders ; *Monosaccharide Transport Proteins/deficiency ; Phenotype ; Quality of Life ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Glut1 deficiency syndrome (Glut1-DS) is a rare metabolic encephalopathy. Familial forms are poorly investigated, and no previous studies have explored aspects of Glut1-DS over the course of life: clinical pictures, intelligence, life achievements, and quality of life in adulthood. Clinical, biochemical and genetic data in a cohort of familial Glut1-DS cases were collected from medical records. Intelligence was assessed using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices and Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices in adults and children, respectively. An ad hoc interview focusing on life achievements and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire were administered to adult subjects.<br><br>RESULTS: The clinical picture in adults was characterized by paroxysmal exercise-induced dyskinesia (PED) (80%), fatigue (60%), low intelligence (60%), epilepsy (50%), and migraine (50%). However, 20% of the adults had higher-than-average intelligence. Quality of Life (QoL) seemed unrelated to the presence of PED or fatigue in adulthood. An association of potential clinical relevance, albeit not statistically significant, was found between intelligence and QoL. The phenotype of familial Glut1-DS in children was characterized by epilepsy (83.3%), intellectual disability (50%), and PED (33%).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The phenotype of familial Glut1-DS shows age-related differences: epilepsy predominates in childhood; PED and fatigue, followed by epilepsy and migraine, characterize the condition in adulthood. Some adults with familial Glut1-DS may lead regular and fulfilling lives, enjoying the same QoL as unaffected individuals. The disorder tends to worsen from generation to generation, with new and more severe symptoms arising within the same family. Epigenetic studies might be useful to assess the phenotypic variability in Glut1-DS.}, }
@article {pmid36148654, year = {2023}, author = {Nakayama, DK}, title = {Thurgood Marshall, Hero of American Medicine.}, journal = {The American surgeon}, volume = {89}, number = {11}, pages = {5051-5054}, doi = {10.1177/00031348221129503}, pmid = {36148654}, issn = {1555-9823}, mesh = {Aged ; Humans ; *Black or African American/education/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Civil Rights/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; *Delivery of Health Care/ethnology/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; *Education/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Education, Medical/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Educational Status ; History, 20th Century ; *Human Rights/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Medicare/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Racial Groups ; *Supreme Court Decisions/history ; United States ; *Lawyers/history ; }, abstract = {One of the heroes in American history, Associate Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall (1908-1993) sought legal remedies against racial discrimination in education and health care. As director of the Legal Defense Fund (LDF) of NAACP from 1940 to 1961, his success in integrating law schools in Texas led to the first black medical student admitted to a state medical school in the South. Representing doctors and dentists needing a facility to perform surgery, the LDF brought cases before the courts in North Carolina that moved the country toward justice in health care. His ultimate legal victory came in 1954, Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, the decision that declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional. In 1964, the LDF under Jack Greenberg, Marshall's successor as director, won Simkins v. Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital, a decision that held that hospitals accepting federal funds had to admit black patients. The two decisions laid the judicial foundation for the laws and administrative acts that changed America's racial history, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Social Security Act Amendments of 1965 that established Medicare and Medicaid. His achievements came during the hottest period of the American civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s. Well past the middle of the twentieth century, black Americans were denied access to the full resources of American medicine, locked in a "separate-but-equal" system woefully inadequate in every respect. In abolishing segregation, Marshall initiated the long overdue remedy of the unjust legacies of slavery and Jim Crow.}, }
@article {pmid36146885, year = {2022}, author = {Wang, CW and Chen, YL and Mao, SJT and Lin, TC and Wu, CW and Thongchan, D and Wang, CY and Wu, HY}, title = {Pathogenicity of Avian Polyomaviruses and Prospect of Vaccine Development.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {14}, number = {9}, pages = {}, pmid = {36146885}, issn = {1999-4915}, mesh = {Amino Acids/genetics ; Animals ; *Biological Products ; DNA, Circular ; Epitopes ; Mammals ; *Passeriformes/genetics ; Phylogeny ; *Polyomavirus/genetics ; *Polyomavirus Infections/prevention &amp; control/veterinary ; Vaccine Development ; Virulence ; }, abstract = {Polyomaviruses are nonenveloped icosahedral viruses with a double-stranded circular DNA containing approximately 5000 bp and 5-6 open reading frames. In contrast to mammalian polyomaviruses (MPVs), avian polyomaviruses (APVs) exhibit high lethality and multipathogenicity, causing severe infections in birds without oncogenicity. APVs are classified into 10 major species: Adélie penguin polyomavirus, budgerigar fledgling disease virus, butcherbird polyomavirus, canary polyomavirus, cormorant polyomavirus, crow polyomavirus, Erythrura gouldiae polyomavirus, finch polyomavirus, goose hemorrhagic polyomavirus, and Hungarian finch polyomavirus under the genus Gammapolyomavirus. This paper briefly reviews the genomic structure and pathogenicity of the 10 species of APV and some of their differences in terms of virulence from MPVs. Each gene's genomic size, number of amino acid residues encoding each gene, and key biologic functions are discussed. The rationale for APV classification from the Polyomavirdae family and phylogenetic analyses among the 10 APVs are also discussed. The clinical symptoms in birds caused by APV infection are summarized. Finally, the strategies for developing an effective vaccine containing essential epitopes for preventing virus infection in birds are discussed. We hope that more effective and safe vaccines with diverse protection will be developed in the future to solve or alleviate the problems of viral infection.}, }
@article {pmid36139294, year = {2022}, author = {Chen, Y and Li, L and Zhu, X and Shen, Y and Ma, A and Zhang, X and Chen, P and Lu, C}, title = {Urban Low-Rise Residential Areas Provide Preferred Song Post Sites for a Resident Songbird.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {12}, number = {18}, pages = {}, pmid = {36139294}, issn = {2076-2615}, support = {32171526//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2208085QC71//Anhui Provincial Natural Science Foundation/ ; KJ2020A0085; KJ2021A0128//Key University Science Research Project of Anhui Province/ ; }, abstract = {Urbanization is expanding rapidly worldwide, and brings additional selection pressure on animals. The song differences between urban and rural songbirds have been widely verified, but the effects of urban morphological variation on long-settled urban birds have been poorly explored. Here, we investigated the distribution and song differences of a common resident songbird-the oriental magpie-robin (Copsychus saularis) between three urban morphology types (i.e., urban park, low-rise residential area, and high-rise residential area). The results indicated that the population density in low-rise residential areas was significantly higher than in urban parks, while it was the lowest in high-rise residential areas. Males in low-rise residential areas had greater song length, syllable numbers, frequency bandwidth, and song diversity than those in urban parks. The song differences were mainly related to habitat types, independent of singing height and perch type. Our findings suggest that low-rise residential areas may provide preferred song post sites for the oriental magpie-robin, which is well-adapted to the low-rise building morphology, but rejects the emerging high-rise buildings. Future studies are needed to assess the effects of urban morphological variation on more resident animals to determine which urban morphologies are conducive to enhancing biodiversity and encouraging animals to settle in urban areas.}, }
@article {pmid36138871, year = {2022}, author = {Zhozhikashvili, N and Zakharov, I and Ismatullina, V and Feklicheva, I and Malykh, S and Arsalidou, M}, title = {Parietal Alpha Oscillations: Cognitive Load and Mental Toughness.}, journal = {Brain sciences}, volume = {12}, number = {9}, pages = {}, pmid = {36138871}, issn = {2076-3425}, support = {17-78-30028//Russian Science Foundation/ ; }, abstract = {Cognitive effort is intrinsically linked to task difficulty, intelligence, and mental toughness. Intelligence reflects an individual’s cognitive aptitude, whereas mental toughness (MT) reflects an individual’s resilience in pursuing success. Research shows that parietal alpha oscillations are associated with changes in task difficulty. Critically, it remains unclear whether parietal alpha oscillations are modulated by intelligence and MT as a personality trait. We examined event-related (de)synchronization (ERD/ERS) of alpha oscillations associated with encoding, retention, and recognition in the Sternberg task in relation to intelligence and mental toughness. Eighty participants completed the Sternberg task with 3, 4, 5 and 6 digits, Raven Standard Progressive Matrices test and an MT questionnaire. A positive dependence on difficulty was observed for all studied oscillatory effects (t = −8.497, p < 0.001; t = 2.806, p < 0.005; t = −2.103, p < 0.05). The influence of Raven intelligence was observed for encoding-related alpha ERD (t = −2.02, p = 0.049). The influence of MT was observed only for difficult conditions in recognition-related alpha ERD (t = −3.282, p < 0.005). Findings indicate that the modulation of alpha rhythm related to encoding, retention and recognition may be interpreted as correlates of cognitive effort modulation. Specifically, results suggest that effort related to encoding depends on intelligence, whereas recognition-related effort level depends on mental toughness.}, }
@article {pmid36138608, year = {2022}, author = {Bălănean, DM and Negrea, C and Bota, E and Petracovschi, S and Almăjan-Guță, B}, title = {Optimizing the Development of Space-Temporal Orientation in Physical Education and Sports Lessons for Students Aged 8-11 Years.}, journal = {Children (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {9}, number = {9}, pages = {}, pmid = {36138608}, issn = {2227-9067}, abstract = {The purpose of this research was to analyze how we can improve the space-temporal orientation ability with the help of physical exercises in physical education and sports lessons. In total,148 children between the ages of 8 and 11 participated in this study (M = 9.70; SD = 0.79). They were subjected to three tests, which measured general intelligence (Raven Progressive Matrices) and space-temporal orientation skills (Piaget-Head test and Bender-Santucci test). The tests were carried out both in the pre-test and in the post-test period. In the case of participants in the experimental group, a specific program was applied for a period of 12 weeks. The results showed that general intelligence level was identified as a predictor of spatial-temporal orientation (beta = 0.17, t = 2.08, p = 0.03) but only for the Piaget-Head test. Similarly, no differences between children's age groups were identified in any of the spatial-temporal orientation test scores. However, children in the "+9" age category had higher scores on the intelligence test compared to younger children (77.31 vs. 35.70). In conclusion, the intervention program had a positive effect on spatial orientation skills.}, }
@article {pmid36135607, year = {2022}, author = {Józsa, K and Amukune, S and Zentai, G and Barrett, KC}, title = {School Readiness Test and Intelligence in Preschool as Predictors of Middle School Success: Result of an Eight-Year Longitudinal Study.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {10}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {36135607}, issn = {2079-3200}, abstract = {Research has shown that the development of cognitive and social skills in preschool predicts school readiness in kindergarten. However, most longitudinal studies are short-term, tracking children's development only through the early elementary school years. This study aims to investigate the long-term impact of preschool predictors, intelligence, and mothers' education on grade six school performance. This study presents the results of an eight-year-long longitudinal study. The sample includes 202 Hungarian children (89 boys) from a disadvantaged region of southeastern Hungary. The independent variables were the preschool measures: DIFER (Diagnostic System for Assessing Development), a widely used, standardized school readiness test that measures cognitive and social skills; the Raven intelligence test; and socioeconomic status. The dependent variables in grade six were: National Standardized tests in math and reading (NABC, National Assessment of Basic Competencies) and school grades (GPA). Cronbach's alpha reliability of each test is above 0.76. Correlations and a series of multiple regressions were used for analysis. All three independent variables have significant predictive power for school performance in sixth grade. DIFER skills were the best predictors for reading achievement, intelligence for math achievement, and GPA was best predicted by mothers' education. The results show that developing preschool skills, mothers' education and IQ in preschool are essential to long-term learning success.}, }
@article {pmid36133790, year = {2022}, author = {He, L and Huang, L}, title = {A Study on the Effects of a Cartoon Text Version of Health Education Manual with Sandplay on the Psychological Status and Cognitive Function of Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.}, journal = {Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM}, volume = {2022}, number = {}, pages = {1816391}, pmid = {36133790}, issn = {1741-427X}, abstract = {PURPOSE: The study aimed to examine the effects of a cartoon text version of a health education manual with sandplay on the psychological status and cognitive function of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).<br><br>METHODS: Eighty cases of children with ADHD admitted from February 2019 to September 2021 were selected for the study. They were numbered according to the order of consultation, and after obtaining family consent, they were divided into the control group (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;40) and the observation group (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;40) using the random number table method. The control group received only medication and verbal health education, while the observation group received a cartoon text version of the health education manual together with sandplay on top of the above, and both groups were treated for 30 weeks. The attention test results and the Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham-IV rating scales (SNAP-IV) were used to assess the effectiveness of the treatment for both groups of children. The awareness rate of health education knowledge of children and their families in both groups was counted. The Conners Parent Symptom Questionnaire (PSQ) and the Combined Raven's test (CRT) were used to assess the psychological status and cognitive functioning of the children in both groups.<br><br>RESULTS: After treatment, the response time, the number of errors, and the number of missed alarms in the attention test results were lower in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05). After treatment, the inattention, antagonism and defiance, and impulsiveness and hyperactivity scores on SNAP-IV were lower in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05). After treatment, the knowledge of disease and treatment, medical and nursing cooperation, safety and protection, and dietary precautions were higher in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05). After treatment, the learning problems, conduct problems, psychosomatic problems, anxiety, impulsivity-hyperactivity, and hyperactivity index scores on the PSQ were lower in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05). After treatment, the A, B, C, D, and E theme scores in the CRT were higher in the observation group than in the control group, and the IQ score was also higher in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The cartoon text version of the health education manual with sandplay can significantly improve the attention deficit, hyperactive behaviour, psychological status, and cognitive function of children with ADHD on the basis of pharmacological treatment, which has a good clinical application.}, }
@article {pmid36129004, year = {2022}, author = {Poncet, L and Desnous, C and Bellanger, C and Jozet-Alves, C}, title = {Unruly octopuses are the rule: Octopus vulgaris use multiple and individually variable strategies in an episodic-like memory task.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {225}, number = {19}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.244234}, pmid = {36129004}, issn = {1477-9145}, support = {ANR-18-CE02-0002//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition ; Decapodiformes ; Humans ; Learning ; Mammals ; *Octopodiformes ; Predatory Behavior ; }, abstract = {Episodic-like memory has mainly been studied through experimental tasks in which subjects have to remember what they ate, where and when or in which context. Seemingly quite common in mammals and corvids, episodic-like memory ability has also been demonstrated in the common cuttlefish, a cephalopod mollusc. To explore whether this ability is common to all cephalopods or whether it has emerged to face specific ecological constraints, we conducted an episodic-like memory task with seven Octopus vulgaris. Only one individual learnt the replenishing rates during training and subsequently showed episodic-like memory ability, whereas the other individuals favoured simpler foraging strategies, such as avoidance of familiarity and alternation, use of a win-stay strategy and risk sensitivity. A high variability in the use of these strategies was observed between and within individuals throughout training. As octopuses seem to live under lighter environmental pressure than cuttlefish, they may not need to rely on episodic-like memory ability to optimize foraging as cuttlefish do. These results highlight the differences in the use of complex cognitive abilities between cuttlefish and octopuses, which might be linked to different environmental and predatory constraints.}, }
@article {pmid36125644, year = {2022}, author = {Loth, A and Güntürkün, O and von Fersen, L and Janik, VM}, title = {Through the looking glass: how do marked dolphins use mirrors and what does it mean?.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {25}, number = {5}, pages = {1151-1160}, pmid = {36125644}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {Gu227/16-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Bottle-Nosed Dolphin ; Elephants ; Fishes ; Crows ; *Behavior, Animal ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Facial Recognition ; }, abstract = {Mirror-guided self-inspection is seen as a cognitive hallmark purportedly indicating the existence of self-recognition. Only a few species of great apes have been reported to pass a standard mark test for mirror self-recognition in which animals attempt to touch a mark. In addition, evidence for passing the mark test was also reported for Asian elephants, two species of corvids, and a species of cleaner fish. Mirror self-recognition has also been claimed for bottlenose dolphins, using exposure of marked areas to a mirror as evidence. However, what counts as self-directed behaviour to see the mark and what does not has been debated. To avoid this problem, we marked the areas around both eyes of the animals at the same time, one with visible and the other with transparent dye to control for haptic cues. This allowed the animal to see the mark easily and us to investigate what side was exposed to the mirror as an indicator for mark observation. We found that the animals actively chose to inspect their visibly marked side while they did not show an increased interest in a marked conspecific in the pool. These results demonstrate that dolphins use the mirror to inspect their marks and, therefore, likely recognise a distinction between self and others.}, }
@article {pmid36124258, year = {2022}, author = {Walsemann, KM and Pearson, J and Abbruzzi, E}, title = {Education in the Jim Crow South and Black-White inequities in allostatic load among older adults.}, journal = {SSM - population health}, volume = {19}, number = {}, pages = {101224}, pmid = {36124258}, issn = {2352-8273}, support = {P2C HD065563/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AG067536/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {In the U.S., Black adults consistently have higher allostatic load - an indicator of physiological dysregulation - than White adults. Education is considered a likely mechanism given racial differences in attainment, but evidence is mixed. This may be due, in part, to data limitations that have made it difficult for scholars to account for the structurally rooted systemic racism that shaped the U.S. education system and led to large racial inequities in school term length and school attendance among older adults who grew up in the Jim Crow South. Our study addresses this limitation by linking historical data on Black and White segregated school systems in the U.S. South from 1919 to 1954 to the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) to determine if a new measure of educational attainment that accounts for structural racism that led to differences in the number of school days attended by Black and White students across years and states better explains Black-White inequities in allostatic load among older adults who attended school during Jim Crow. We restrict our sample to HRS respondents racialized as White or Black, who resided in the South when they were school-aged, completed primary/secondary school between 1919 and 1954, and provided a measure of allostatic load (n = 1932). We find that our new measure of schooling - duration in school - reduced the Black-White inequity in allostatic load more so than self-reported years of schooling whether we measured allostatic load continuously (34% vs 16%) or categorically (45% vs 20%). Our findings highlight the importance of identifying and using historically informed measures of schooling that account for structurally rooted systemic racism when trying to understand how education shapes the health of individuals racialized as Black in the United States.}, }
@article {pmid36118475, year = {2022}, author = {Koo, SJ and Kim, YJ and Seo, E and Park, HY and Min, JE and Bang, M and Park, JY and Lee, E and An, SK}, title = {Relationship of neurocognitive ability, perspective taking, and psychoticism with hostile attribution bias in non-clinical participants: Theory of mind as a mediator.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {863763}, pmid = {36118475}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Hostile attribution bias is reportedly common from non-clinical population to those with serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia, and is known to be closely related to theory of mind (ToM). This study aimed to investigate whether ToM skills mediate the relationship among neurocognitive ability, personality traits, and attribution bias.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 198 (101 females) non-clinical youths were recruited. To assess their neurocognitive ability and ToM skills, the participants were asked to complete Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) and the Korean version of the Reading the Mind in Eyes Test (K-RMET). To determine their personality traits, the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (psychoticism) and interpersonal reactivity index (perspective taking) were used. To evaluate hostile attribution bias, the Ambiguous Intentions Hostility Questionnaire was administered. Path analysis and bias-corrected percentile bootstrap methods were used to estimate model fit and the parameters of the mediating effects.<br><br>RESULTS: Based on model comparison, the best model characterized (1) two direct pathways from psychoticism and the K-RMET to hostility attribution bias and (2) three indirect pathways, wherein SPM, perspective taking, and psychoticism influenced hostile attribution bias through K-RMET. The final model fit indices were good [x [2]/df&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.126; comparative fit index&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.996; root mean square error of approximation&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.026; standard root mean square residual&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.026 and Akaike information criterion&#x2009;=&#x2009;28.251] and the K-RMET fully mediated the association between SPM, perspective taking, psychoticism, and hostile attribution bias.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The main findings suggested that ToM skills, such as the RMET, play an important role in explaining the relationship among neurocognitive ability, personality traits, and hostile attribution bias. ToM skills and a remediation strategy may need to be developed to balance the enhanced hostility bias that underlies the paranoia.}, }
@article {pmid36117861, year = {2022}, author = {Ashton, BJ and Thornton, A and Speechley, EM and Ridley, AR}, title = {Does trappability and self-selection influence cognitive performance?.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {9}, number = {9}, pages = {220473}, pmid = {36117861}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {Recent research has highlighted how trappability and self-selection-the processes by which individuals with particular traits may be more likely to be caught or to participate in experiments-may be sources of bias in studies of animal behaviour and cognition. It is crucial to determine whether such biases exist, and if they do, what effect they have on results. In this study, we investigated if trappability (quantified through 'ringing status'-whether or not a bird had been trapped for ringing) and self-selection are sources of bias in a series of associative learning experiments spanning 5 years in the Western Australian magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen dorsalis). We found no evidence of self-selection, with no biases in task participation associated with sex, age, group size or ringing status. In addition, we found that there was no effect of trappability on cognitive performance. These findings give us confidence in the results generated in the animal cognition literature and add to a growing body of literature seeking to determine potential sources of bias in studies of animal behaviour, and how they influence the generalizability and reproducibility of findings.}, }
@article {pmid36113292, year = {2022}, author = {Ge, X and Ren, J and Li, S and Rene, ER and Zhou, D and Zhang, P and Hu, Q and Ma, W}, title = {Prediction of the impact of benzo[a]pyrene on shallow groundwater during natural infiltration of reclaimed water-receiving rivers: A case study of Liangshui, China.}, journal = {Journal of environmental management}, volume = {323}, number = {}, pages = {116070}, doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.116070}, pmid = {36113292}, issn = {1095-8630}, mesh = {Benzo(a)pyrene ; China ; *Drinking Water ; Environmental Monitoring/methods ; *Groundwater ; Rivers ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis ; }, abstract = {The quality of groundwater along rivers is greatly affected by long-term infiltration from surface water, especially reclaimed water-receiving rivers. To predict the degree of influence of contaminated river water on groundwater quality, the spatiotemporal distribution and migration evolution prediction of benzo[a]pyrene (B(a)P) was monitored and simulated by Hydrus-coupled Groundwater Modeling Systems (GMS) model in terms of reclaimed water-receiving Liangshui River. The prediction results indicated the goodness-of-fit of this coupled model, according to the model efficiency (E: 0.78-0.93), the mean absolute error (MAE: 0.01-0.32 m) and the root-mean-square error (RMSE: 0.06-0.35 m). The vertical infiltration rate of B(a)P in the vadose zone was 0.102 m[-1], which was only 0.73% that of water. B(a)P penetrated the 16 m depth vadose zone for 63 years owing to the attenuation function of adsorption and biodegradation, with contribution ratios of 78.4% and 19.3%, respectively. However, once B(a)P intersects with groundwater, the migration of B(a)P is dominated by horizontal migration due to downward movement along the groundwater flow direction. The migration rate of B(a)P in groundwater was 6.65 m/y in the horizontal direction, which was 2.42 and 16.22 times higher than the dispersion rate in the longitudinal and vertical directions, respectively. The spatiotemporal distribution indicated that the B(a)P concentration decreased with the crow-fly distance from river with attenuation rate constants of 1.19 × 10[-4], 3.05 × 10[-4], and 3.67 × 10[-3] m[-1] over horizontal, longitudinal, and vertical direction, respectively, which were negatively correlated with migration rate. However, the B(a)P content increased over the extension of infiltration time with an accumulation rate of 7.3 × 10[-2] d[-1]. The migration and accumulation of B(a)P induced potential health risks to groundwater-based drinking water safety, which resulted in the groundwater safety utilization range decreasing from 450 m, 283 m, and 20.1 m-583 m, 338 m, and 28.2 m far from the river over the horizontal, longitudinal, and vertical directions, respectively, 20 years later. This study provides a numerical modeling solution for the viable spatiotemporal evolution of B(a)P in groundwater and an effective decision-making tool for the safe utilization of groundwater as drinking water.}, }
@article {pmid36106040, year = {2022}, author = {Pishghadam, R and Faribi, M and Kolahi Ahari, M and Shadloo, F and Gholami, MJ and Shayesteh, S}, title = {Intelligence, emotional intelligence, and emo-sensory intelligence: Which one is a better predictor of university students' academic success?.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {995988}, pmid = {36106040}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {The primary aim of this study was to determine the role of psychometric intelligence (IQ), emotional intelligence (EQ), and emo-sensory intelligence (ESQ) in university students' academic achievement. To this end, 212 university students at different academic levels, composed of 154 females and 58 males, were asked to complete the Raven's Progressive Matrices, the Bar-On Emotional Quotient Inventory, and the Emo-Sensory Intelligence Scale. Data were then matched with students' Grade Point Averages as a measure of their academic achievement. The results revealed that students' level of IQ and EQ could positively predict their academic achievement. In the case of their ESQ level, its auditory sub-component was found to be a positive predictor of academic success. Results were discussed, and possible implications and applications for increasing students' chances for success were presented.}, }
@article {pmid36101467, year = {2022}, author = {Zelentsova, EA and Yanshole, LV and Tsentalovich, YP and Sharshov, KA and Yanshole, VV}, title = {The Application of Quantitative Metabolomics for the Taxonomic Differentiation of Birds.}, journal = {Biology}, volume = {11}, number = {7}, pages = {}, pmid = {36101467}, issn = {2079-7737}, support = {21-74-00068//Russian Science Foundation/ ; }, abstract = {In the current pilot study, we propose the use of quantitative metabolomics to reconstruct the phylogeny of vertebrates, namely birds. We determined the concentrations of the 67 most abundant metabolites in the eye lenses of the following 14 species from 6 orders of the class Aves (Birds): the Black kite (Milvus migrans), Eurasian magpie (Pica pica), Northern raven (Corvus corax), Eurasian coot (Fulica atra), Godlewski's bunting (Emberiza godlewskii), Great crested grebe (Podiceps cristatus), Great tit (Parus major), Hawfinch (Coccothraustes coccothraustes), Hooded crow (Corvus cornix), House sparrow (Passer domesticus), Rock dove (Columba livia), Rook (Corvus frugilegus), Short-eared owl (Asio flammeus) and Ural owl (Strix uralensis). Further analysis shows that the statistical approaches generally used in metabolomics can be applied for differentiation between species, and the most fruitful results were obtained with hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA). We observed the grouping of conspecific samples independently of the sampling place and date. The HCA tree structure supports the key role of genomics in the formation of the lens metabolome, but it also indicates the influence of the species lifestyle. A combination of genomics-based and metabolomics-based phylogeny could potentially resolve arising issues and yield a more reliable tree of life.}, }
@article {pmid36099476, year = {2023}, author = {Rahman, E and Mosahebi, A and Carruthers, JDA and Carruthers, A}, title = {The Efficacy and Duration of Onabotulinum Toxin A in Improving Upper Facial Expression Lines With 64-Unit Dose Optimization: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis With Trial Sequential Analysis of the Randomized Controlled Trials.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {43}, number = {2}, pages = {215-229}, doi = {10.1093/asj/sjac253}, pmid = {36099476}, issn = {1527-330X}, mesh = {Humans ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; Facial Expression ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Forehead ; *Skin Aging ; *Neuromuscular Agents/therapeutic use ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Onabotulinumtoxin A (Onabot A) was the first treatment to be approved for aesthetic indications, namely glabellar lines (GLs), crow's feet lines (CFLs), and forehead lines (FHLs), with a cumulative dose of 64 U.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis to combine the available data for approved doses for GLs, CFLs, and FHLs to explore the effect and duration of simultaneous treatment with Onabot A.<br><br>METHODS: PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and other national clinical trial registries were searched for randomized controlled trials from January 2010 to July 2022. The meta-analysis, trial sequential analysis, and investigator-assessed time to return to nonresponder status in GLs, CFLs, and FHLs following Onabot A were plotted to elicit a cumulative dose-adjusted response curve based on Kaplan-Meier analysis with a log-rank test.<br><br>RESULTS: Fourteen randomized controlled trials were eligible for quantitative analysis. A total of 8369 subjects were recruited across the trials. The meta-analysis results show that Onabot A is very effective in reducing moderate to severe GLs, CFLs, and FHLs. The cumulative Z-curve for GLs, CFLs, and FHLs also exceeds the required information size (RIS). Kaplan-Meier analysis with a log-rank test demonstrated that simultaneous treatment of GLs, CFLs, and FHLs requires 182 days (95% CI = 179, 215 days) (P < 0.00002) to return to nonresponder status.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Treatment of the upper facial expression lines with Onabot A is effective, and the approved cumulative dose of 64 U gives longer-lasting effects.}, }
@article {pmid36064742, year = {2022}, author = {Sarker, S and Sutherland, M}, title = {Molecular characterisation of a novel pathogenic avipoxvirus from an Australian little crow (Corvus bennetti) directly from the clinical sample.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {15053}, pmid = {36064742}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; *Avipoxvirus/genetics ; *Bird Diseases ; *Crows ; Phylogeny ; *Poxviridae Infections/veterinary ; }, abstract = {Avipoxviruses are thought to be restricted to avian hosts and considered significant pathogens that may impact the conservation of many birds. However, reports of avipoxvirus-like viruses from reptiles suggest that cross-species transmission, within birds and other species, may be possible. The vast majority of avipoxviruses in wild birds remain uncharacterised and their genetic variability is unclear. Here, cutaneous pox lesions were used to recover a novel full-length crowpox virus genome from an Australian little crow (Corvus bennetti), followed by the detection of immature and intracellular mature virions using electron microscopy. The CRPV genome was 328,768 bp in length and contained 403 predicted open-reading frames. While 356 of the ORFs of CRPV genome had the greatest similarity with other avipoxviruses gene products, a further 47 ORFs were novel. Subsequent phylogenetic analyses showed that the CRPV was most closely related to other avipoxviruses isolated from passerine and marine bird species and demonstrated the highest sequence similarity with an albatrosspox virus (84.4%). Considering the sequence similarity observed between CRPV and other avipoxviruses and phylogenetic position, this study concluded that the CRPV to be a distinct available candidate of avipoxviruses.}, }
@article {pmid36051595, year = {2022}, author = {Behle, N and Kamp, F and Proebstl, L and Hager, L and Riebschläger, M and Schacht-Jablonowsky, M and Hamdorf, W and Neumann, S and Krause, D and Manz, K and Franke, AG and Koller, G and Soyka, M}, title = {Treatment outcome, cognitive function, and psychopathology in methamphetamine users compared to other substance users.}, journal = {World journal of psychiatry}, volume = {12}, number = {7}, pages = {944-957}, pmid = {36051595}, issn = {2220-3206}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The rising number of people using methamphetamine leads to an increasing need for treatment options for this patient group. Evidence-based research on the efficacy of treatment programs for methamphetamine users is limited. Due to specific characteristics of methamphetamine users, the question arises whether established treatment methods for individuals using other substances can be effective for the treatment of methamphetamine dependence as well. We hypothesize that there are significant differences between the two groups that may affect the effectiveness of treatment and worsen the prognosis of treatment outcomes for methamphetamine users compared to consumers of other substances.<br><br>AIM: To investigate potential differences in cognitive functioning and psychopathology between methamphetamine users and other substance users and possible correlations with treatment outcomes.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 110 subjects were recruited for an observational, longitudinal study from a German inpatient addiction treatment center: 55 patients with methamphetamine dependence and 55 patients with dependence of other substances ("OS group"). Both groups were examined at beginning (baseline) and end of treatment (after 6 mo) with regard to treatment retention, craving, cognitive functioning, psychosocial resources, personality traits, depression, and other psychiatric symptoms. Instruments used were Raven's IQ test, Mannheimer craving scale, cognitrone cognitive test battery, NEO personality factors inventory, Hamilton depression scale, Becks depression inventory, and a symptom checklist. The statistical methods used were &#x3c7; [2]-test, t-test and multiple mixed ANOVAs.<br><br>RESULTS: A total drop-out rate of 40% (methamphetamine-group: 36.4%; OS-group: 43.6%) was observed without significant differences between groups. At baseline, methamphetamine-group subjects significantly differed from OS-group individuals in terms of a lower intelligence quotient, fewer years of education, slower working speed, and decreased working accuracy, as well as less cannabinoid and cocaine use. Methamphetamine-group subjects further showed a significantly lower score of conscientiousness, depressive, and psychiatric symptoms than subjects from the OS-group. In both groups, a reduction of craving and depressive symptoms and an improvement of working speed and working accuracy was noted after treatment.<br><br>CONCLUSION: There are differences between methamphetamine users and users of other drugs, but not with regard to the effectiveness of treatment in this inpatient setting. There are differences in cognitive function and psychopathology between methamphetamine and other drugs users. The existing treatment options seem to be an effective approach in treating methamphetamine dependence.}, }
@article {pmid37907444, year = {2022}, author = {Khorana, AA}, title = {Diversifying medical humanities: The case for Jay-Z.}, journal = {Cleveland Clinic journal of medicine}, volume = {89}, number = {9}, pages = {501-503}, doi = {10.3949/ccjm.89a.22011}, pmid = {37907444}, issn = {1939-2869}, }
@article {pmid36029870, year = {2022}, author = {Tubío-Fungueiriño, M and Alemany-Navarro, M and Alonso, P and Arrojo, M and Real, E and Bertolin, S and Menchón, JM and Carracedo, A and Fernández-Prieto, M and Segalàs, C}, title = {Neuropsychological performance and predictors of pharmacological treatment response in obsessive compulsive disorder.}, journal = {Journal of affective disorders}, volume = {317}, number = {}, pages = {52-58}, doi = {10.1016/j.jad.2022.08.063}, pmid = {36029870}, issn = {1573-2517}, mesh = {Cognition ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnosis/drug therapy ; Executive Function ; Humans ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder/psychology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is characterized by the presence of executive dysfunctions. As organizational strategies may play an important role as a possible endophenotype of the disorder, we decided to investigate non-verbal memory and organizational abilities in OCD. We also investigated how organization and non-verbal memory differ between responder and non-responder patients to pharmacological treatment, to test whether cognitive functions can predict the response to pharmacological treatment.<br><br>METHODS: In Study 1, executive and clinical functioning measures were applied to 162 OCD and 95 controls. In Study 2, clinical, intelligence and executive functioning measures were applied to 72 OCD responders and 63 OCD non-responder patients.<br><br>RESULTS: OCD patients and controls from Study 1 differed in copy organization (p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.01) and delayed recall (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.048). In Study 2, the OCD responders displayed better copy organization (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.013) and lower depressive, anxious and OCD symptoms (p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.01 in the three cases). Scores in the following instruments were found to predict the response to pharmacological treatment: HDRS, Y-BOCS, Raven progressive matrices, and Direct digit subtest from the Wechsler's scale (p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.01 in all four cases).<br><br>LIMITATIONS: In Study 1, the imbalance of the sample can be considered a limitation, whilst in Study 2, some of the levels of pharmacological resistance were not represented.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In this study, non-verbal memory and organization was affected in OCD. Responder patients also displayed better executive functioning and fluid intelligence. Organizational ability is a predictor of pharmacological response to SSRI monotherapy in a predictive model controlling for anxious symptoms.}, }
@article {pmid36029482, year = {2022}, author = {Johnson, SD and Buchweitz, JP and Lehner, AF}, title = {Single oral or intravenous administration of voriconazole achieved recommended therapeutic minimum inhibitory concentrations against Aspergillus in the common raven (Corvus corax).}, journal = {American journal of veterinary research}, volume = {83}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.2460/ajvr.22.03.0055}, pmid = {36029482}, issn = {1943-5681}, mesh = {Administration, Intravenous/veterinary ; Administration, Oral ; Animals ; Antifungal Agents ; Area Under Curve ; Aspergillus ; *Crows ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests/veterinary ; Pyrimidines ; Triazoles ; Voriconazole ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine the pharmacokinetics of voriconazole after single IV or orally administered boluses in common ravens (Corvus corax).<br><br>ANIMALS: 8 healthy common ravens.<br><br>PROCEDURES: Voriconazole (5 mg/mL, 10 mg/kg IV) was administered to 8 birds, and then plasma voriconazole concentrations were measured at various time points by high-pressure liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry. Starting 6 months later in a randomized 3-treatment 3-period regimen, birds received a single oral dose of voriconazole suspension (10 mg/mL; 6, 12, and 24 mg/kg PO). The study period was May 2015 to March 2016.<br><br>RESULTS: Voriconazole (10 mg/kg IV) achieved an initial plasma concentration of 6.31 &#xb5;g/mL when measured over 21 hours. After oral administration of voriconazole at 6, 12, and 24 mg/kg, the relative bioavailability was 67.5%, 209%, and 183%, respectively. For the 6-mg/kg dose, the maximum plasma concentration was reached at 30 minutes after administration and remained in the therapeutic range of 0.5 to 1 &#xb5;g/mL for approximately 15 hours. The 12- and 24-mg/kg doses resulted in concentrations in a potentially toxic range.<br><br>CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Voriconazole was well tolerated. All 4 doses resulted in plasma concentrations of voriconazole > 0.5 &#xb5;g/mL, which is the minimum inhibitory concentration recommended for pathogenic species of Aspergillus fungi known to affect birds. A single dose of voriconazole administered as 10 mg/kg IV or 6 mg/kg PO resulted in recommended target plasma concentrations. Administration of voriconazole 6 mg/kg PO 2 to 3 times daily may be adequate for treatment without exceeding the toxic range.}, }
@article {pmid36015978, year = {2022}, author = {Kumra, S and Joshi, S and Sahin, F}, title = {GR-ConvNet v2: A Real-Time Multi-Grasp Detection Network for Robotic Grasping.}, journal = {Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {22}, number = {16}, pages = {}, pmid = {36015978}, issn = {1424-8220}, mesh = {Feedback, Sensory ; Hand Strength ; Neural Networks, Computer ; *Robotic Surgical Procedures ; *Robotics ; }, abstract = {We propose a dual-module robotic system to tackle the problem of generating and performing antipodal robotic grasps for unknown objects from the n-channel image of the scene. We present an improved version of the Generative Residual Convolutional Neural Network (GR-ConvNet v2) model that can generate robust antipodal grasps from n-channel image input at real-time speeds (20 ms). We evaluated the proposed model architecture on three standard datasets and achieved a new state-of-the-art accuracy of 98.8%, 95.1%, and 97.4% on Cornell, Jacquard and Graspnet grasping datasets, respectively. Empirical results show that our model significantly outperformed the prior work with a stricter IoU-based grasp detection metric. We conducted a suite of tests in simulation and the real world on a diverse set of previously unseen objects with adversarial geometry and household items. We demonstrate the adaptability of our approach by directly transferring the trained model to a 7 DoF robotic manipulator with a grasp success rate of 95.4% and 93.0% on novel household and adversarial objects, respectively. Furthermore, we validate the generalization capability of our pixel-wise grasp prediction model by validating it on complex Ravens-10 benchmark tasks, some of which require closed-loop visual feedback for multi-step sequencing.}, }
@article {pmid36015459, year = {2022}, author = {Mgwatyu, Y and Cornelissen, S and van Heusden, P and Stander, A and Ranketse, M and Hesse, U}, title = {Establishing MinION Sequencing and Genome Assembly Procedures for the Analysis of the Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) Genome.}, journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {11}, number = {16}, pages = {}, pmid = {36015459}, issn = {2223-7747}, support = {NA//University of the Western Cape/ ; NA//FooBev SETA Research and Innovation Grant/ ; NA//South African Rooibos Council/ ; }, abstract = {While plant genome analysis is gaining speed worldwide, few plant genomes have been sequenced and analyzed on the African continent. Yet, this information holds the potential to transform diverse industries as it unlocks medicinally and industrially relevant biosynthesis pathways for bioprospecting. Considering that South Africa is home to the highly diverse Cape Floristic Region, local establishment of methods for plant genome analysis is essential. Long-read sequencing is becoming standard procedure for plant genome research, as these reads can span repetitive regions of the DNA, substantially facilitating reassembly of a contiguous genome. With the MinION, Oxford Nanopore offers a cost-efficient sequencing method to generate long reads; however, DNA purification protocols must be adapted for each plant species to generate ultra-pure DNA, essential for these analyses. Here, we describe a cost-effective procedure for the extraction and purification of plant DNA and evaluate diverse genome assembly approaches for the reconstruction of the genome of rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), an endemic South African medicinal plant widely used for tea production. We discuss the pros and cons of nine tested assembly programs, specifically Redbean and NextDenovo, which generated the most contiguous assemblies, and Flye, which produced an assembly closest to the predicted genome size.}, }
@article {pmid36008849, year = {2022}, author = {Jain, V and Bugnyar, T and Cunningham, SJ and Gallego-Abenza, M and Loretto, MC and Sumasgutner, P}, title = {The spatial and temporal exploitation of anthropogenic food sources by common ravens (Corvus corax) in the Alps.}, journal = {Movement ecology}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {35}, pmid = {36008849}, issn = {2051-3933}, support = {P29705//Austrian Science Fund/ ; 798091//European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme/ ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Anthropogenic food sources (AFSs) are widespread in human-transformed landscapes and the current scale at which they occur drives ecological change at the individual, population, and community levels. AFSs are exploited extensively by common ravens, Corvus corax. Understanding how raven populations use AFSs can provide insight into their ecological responses to AFSs.<br><br>METHODS: We equipped 81 ravens in the Austrian Alps with GPS-transmitters over a period of 2.75&#xa0;years. Using these tracking data, we investigated how cohort differences (i.e., age, sex, and origin) and seasonal changes influence raven movement patterns (i.e., occurrence distribution and maximum daily displacement) and AFS-use (i.e., number of AFSs visited and probability of being present at any AFS) at 45 extensively exploited sites.<br><br>RESULTS: We found that proxies for experience and dominance, inferred by age (i.e., juvenile versus adult) and origin (i.e., wild-caught versus captive-bred-released) cohorts, influenced movement patterns and the number of AFSs visited. However, all individuals were equally likely to be present at AFSs, highlighting the importance of AFSs for non-breeders in the study population. Seasonal changes in environmental conditions that&#xa0;affect energetic demands, the availability of natural and anthropogenic food, and foraging competition, &#xa0;influenced individuals' occurrence distributions and AFS-use. We found that under harsher conditions in autumn and winter, individuals ranged wider and depended on AFSs to a larger degree. However, contrary to expectation, they were less likely to be present at AFSs in these seasons compared to spring and summer, suggesting a trade-off between time spent moving and exploiting resources. We attribute the small ranging movements exhibited by non-breeders in spring and summer to the presence of highly territorial and socially dominant breeders. As breeders mostly stay and forage within their territories during these seasons, competition at AFSs decrease, thereby increasing the likelihood of individuals being present at any AFS.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: We emphasize that movement and AFS-use differ according to cohort differences and the seasonality of the environment. Our results highlight that predictable AFSs affect foraging strategies among non-breeding ravens. The extent of AFS-exploitation among non-breeding ravens in our study emphasize the potential of AFSs in shaping raven movement and resource-use.}, }
@article {pmid35997416, year = {2022}, author = {Bouchefra, S and Azeroual, A and Boudassamout, H and Ahaji, K and Ech-Chaouy, A and Bour, A}, title = {Association between Non-Verbal Intelligence and Academic Performance of Schoolchildren from Taza, Eastern Morocco.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {10}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {35997416}, issn = {2079-3200}, abstract = {Interest in identifying factors influencing educational success is growing. It is often observed that a group of students share the same external variables (school environment) yet have different results, which states that individual variables have more impact on the determination of academic performance. Therefore, the present study aimed to substantiate this fact by investigating the association between non-verbal fluid intelligence and academic performance in a population of schoolchildren in Eastern Morocco. The investigation was a cross-sectional study based on a self-administered questionnaire. Items included the standard Raven's progressive matrices. Students' grades were collected from the administrative offices of the visited schools. Significant and positive correlations between the non-verbal intelligence scores and the school results were found: for the general average, the correlation was 0.574; for the school subject French, the correlation coefficient was 0.475; and for mathematics, we found a relatively low coefficient of 0.381. Non-verbal fluid intelligence significantly and positively predicted academic performance (β = .574, p = .000). These results call for policymakers to implement the use of intelligence tests with school directors and teachers as a diagnostic tool to guide support efforts for low-achieving children and even to create pilot classes for the best-performing students.}, }
@article {pmid35996653, year = {2022}, author = {Mohammed, MA and Al-Khateeb, B and Yousif, M and Mostafa, SA and Kadry, S and Abdulkareem, KH and Garcia-Zapirain, B}, title = {Novel Crow Swarm Optimization Algorithm and Selection Approach for Optimal Deep Learning COVID-19 Diagnostic Model.}, journal = {Computational intelligence and neuroscience}, volume = {2022}, number = {}, pages = {1307944}, pmid = {35996653}, issn = {1687-5273}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Animals ; *COVID-19/diagnosis ; COVID-19 Testing ; *Crows ; *Deep Learning ; Humans ; Pandemics ; }, abstract = {Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, computerized COVID-19 diagnosis studies are proliferating. The diversity of COVID-19 models raises the questions of which COVID-19 diagnostic model should be selected and which decision-makers of healthcare organizations should consider performance criteria. Because of this, a selection scheme is necessary to address all the above issues. This study proposes an integrated method for selecting the optimal deep learning model based on a novel crow swarm optimization algorithm for COVID-19 diagnosis. The crow swarm optimization is employed to find an optimal set of coefficients using a designed fitness function for evaluating the performance of the deep learning models. The crow swarm optimization is modified to obtain a good selected coefficient distribution by considering the best average fitness. We have utilized two datasets: the first dataset includes 746 computed tomography images, 349 of them are of confirmed COVID-19 cases and the other 397 are of healthy individuals, and the second dataset are composed of unimproved computed tomography images of the lung for 632 positive cases of COVID-19 with 15 trained and pretrained deep learning models with nine evaluation metrics are used to evaluate the developed methodology. Among the pretrained CNN and deep models using the first dataset, ResNet50 has an accuracy of 91.46% and a F1-score of 90.49%. For the first dataset, the ResNet50 algorithm is the optimal deep learning model selected as the ideal identification approach for COVID-19 with the closeness overall fitness value of 5715.988 for COVID-19 computed tomography lung images case considered differential advancement. In contrast, the VGG16 algorithm is the optimal deep learning model is selected as the ideal identification approach for COVID-19 with the closeness overall fitness value of 5758.791 for the second dataset. Overall, InceptionV3 had the lowest performance for both datasets. The proposed evaluation methodology is a helpful tool to assist healthcare managers in selecting and evaluating the optimal COVID-19 diagnosis models based on deep learning.}, }
@article {pmid35980452, year = {2023}, author = {Hadjikhani, N and Galazka, M and Kenet, T and Joseph, R and Åsberg Johnels, J}, title = {Discrepancy between high non-verbal intelligence and low accuracy at reading emotional expressions in the eyes reflects the magnitude of social-emotional difficulties in autism.}, journal = {European archives of psychiatry and clinical neuroscience}, volume = {273}, number = {3}, pages = {755-759}, pmid = {35980452}, issn = {1433-8491}, support = {PPP00P3-130191//Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur F&#xf6;rderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung/ ; 2018-02397//Vetenskapsr&#xe5;det/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; *Autistic Disorder/psychology ; Quality of Life ; Emotions ; Intelligence ; Empathy ; *Autism Spectrum Disorder/diagnosis ; }, abstract = {Many so-called "high functioning" autistic individuals struggle with daily living skills, and have poorer than expected adult outcomes in employment, relationships, and quality of life. Significant discrepancies between non-verbal intelligence and emotional processing can be observed in autism, but the role of the magnitude of this gap in achieving potential psychosocial outcome is not known. Here, we show in a large group of participants (n = 107), that only among those with an autism diagnosis (n = 33), the gap between non-verbal intelligence (as measured by Raven's matrices) and the ability to perform the Reading the Mind in the Eyes test significantly predicts self-perceived emotional/social difficulties as assessed by the Empathy Quotient. Our results suggest that it is specifically the magnitude of the gap between (high) levels of abstract reasoning skills and poor proficiency in reading emotions expressed by the eyes that predicts self-perceived difficulties in emotional and social interactions among adults with autism. A better understanding of the underlying causes of the discrepancy between potential and actual psychosocial outcomes is the first step toward developing the most appropriate support for this vulnerable population, and our study offers some potentially important insights in this regard.}, }
@article {pmid35969822, year = {2022}, author = {Paltrow, LM}, title = {Roe v Wade and the New Jane Crow: Reproductive Rights in the Age of Mass Incarceration.}, journal = {American journal of public health}, volume = {112}, number = {9}, pages = {1313-1317}, doi = {10.2105/AJPH.2012.301104r}, pmid = {35969822}, issn = {1541-0048}, mesh = {*Abortion, Induced ; Abortion, Legal ; Animals ; Civil Rights ; *Crows ; Female ; Government Regulation ; Humans ; Pregnancy ; Pregnant People ; Reproductive Rights ; Supreme Court Decisions ; United States ; Women's Rights ; }, }
@article {pmid35957551, year = {2022}, author = {Forbes, SL and Samson, C and Watson, CJ}, title = {Seasonal impact of scavenger guilds as taphonomic agents in central and northern Ontario, Canada.}, journal = {Journal of forensic sciences}, volume = {67}, number = {6}, pages = {2203-2217}, doi = {10.1111/1556-4029.15122}, pmid = {35957551}, issn = {1556-4029}, support = {C150-2017-12//Canada 150 Research Chair in Forensic Thanatology/ ; RGPIN/6098/2019//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Swine ; Animals ; Seasons ; *Feeding Behavior ; Ontario ; *Birds ; Ecosystem ; Fishes ; Foxes ; }, abstract = {The process of human decomposition is driven by biological decomposers, mainly bacteria, vertebrates, and invertebrate scavengers. When vertebrate scavengers have access to a body, they can considerably accelerate decomposition through consumption of soft tissue and dispersal of skeletal elements. Presently, there are limited data available on vertebrate scavenging activity in Canada, particularly in densely populated provinces such as Ontario. This study aimed to determine which vertebrate species belong to the scavenger guilds in central and northern Ontario, and the impact of season and habitat on these taphonomic agents. Seasonal trials were conducted in summer, fall, and spring of 2020/2021 with pig carcasses placed in open (grassland) and closed (forest) sites. Vertebrate scavenger activity was recorded continuously using cellular and non-cellular trail cameras. Photographs were analyzed to identify species, quantify feeding intensity, and document scavenging behavior. We identified four mammalian scavengers, namely coyote, red fox, fisher, and pine marten, and three avian scavengers, namely bald eagle, turkey vulture, and American crows/northern ravens (grouped as corvids) across the trials. Season impacted scavenger presence with feeding and loss of soft tissue occurring more quickly in the summer, followed by spring and fall. None of the scavengers demonstrated a clear preference for the open versus closed sites. Our findings have identified the most prevalent vertebrate scavengers in central and northern Ontario and their taphonomic impact on soft and hard tissues. It is important to consider these agents and their ability to degrade and disperse remains during the search and recovery of human remains.}, }
@article {pmid35944836, year = {2022}, author = {Peacock, D and Croxford, A and Iannella, A and Kovaliski, J and Lavazza, A and Cooke, B and Spratt, D and Strive, T and Taggart, D and Campbell, S and Robinson, S and Sawyers, E}, title = {Using genetic analysis to determine the distribution, prevalence and diversity of Eimeria species in pest rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in Australia.}, journal = {Parasitology international}, volume = {91}, number = {}, pages = {102642}, doi = {10.1016/j.parint.2022.102642}, pmid = {35944836}, issn = {1873-0329}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia/epidemiology ; *Coccidiosis/epidemiology/veterinary ; *Eimeria/genetics ; Feces ; Prevalence ; Rabbits ; }, abstract = {To genetically assess the Australian distribution and frequency of Eimeria species in wild rabbits, with a primary focus on Eimeria intestinalis and Eimeria flavescens as possible additional agents of rabbit biocontrol, the distal colon and faecal samples from wild rabbits sourced from 26 Australian locations with mean annual rainfalls of between 252 mm and 925 mm were analysed using amplicon sequencing of the ITS1 region. Contrary to previous microscopy studies which had only detected E. flavescens on mainland Australia at Wellstead in south-west Western Australia, we detected this species at all 23 effectively sampled sites. The more pathogenic E. intestinalis was only found at 52.2% of sites. Three unique Eimeria genotypes were detected that did not align to the 11 published sequences using a pairwise-match threshold of 90%, and may represent unsequenced known species or novel species. One genotype we termed E. Au19SH and was detected at 20 sites, E. Au19CO was detected at eight sites, and E. Au19CN was detected in one rabbit at Crows Nest (Qld). Site diversity ranged from only five Eimeria species at Boboyan (ACT) to 13 unique sequences at Cargo (NSW). Eimeria diversity in individual rabbits ranged from 11 unique sequences in a rabbit at Wellstead (WA) and a rabbit at Cargo (NSW), to one in 17 rabbits and zero in six rabbits. The three rabbit age classes averaged 4.3 Eimeria species per rabbit. No relationship was found between the number of Eimeria species detected and mean annual rainfall. As Eimeria species were found to be fairly ubiquitous at most sites they appear to be an unlikely additional candidate to assist the control of pest rabbits in Australia.}, }
@article {pmid35938778, year = {2022}, author = {Kersten, Y and Friedrich-Müller, B and Nieder, A}, title = {A brain atlas of the carrion crow (Corvus corone).}, journal = {The Journal of comparative neurology}, volume = {530}, number = {17}, pages = {3011-3038}, doi = {10.1002/cne.25392}, pmid = {35938778}, issn = {1096-9861}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain/metabolism ; Cognition/physiology ; *Crows/metabolism ; Hippocampus/metabolism ; *Songbirds ; Tyrosine 3-Monooxygenase/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Corvidae, passerine songbirds such as jays, crows, and ravens known as corvids, have become model systems for the study of avian cognition. The superior cognitive capabilities of corvids mainly emerge from a disproportionally large telencephalon found in these species. However, a systematic mapping of the neuroanatomy of the corvid brain, and the telencephalon in particular, is lacking so far. Here, we present a brain atlas of the carrion crow, Corvus corone, with special emphasis on the telencephalic pallium. We applied four staining techniques to brain slices (Nissl, myelin, combination of Nissl and myelin, and tyrosine hydroxylase targeting catecholaminergic neurons). This allowed us to identify brain nuclei throughout the brain and delineate the known pallial subdivisions termed hyperpallium, entopallium, mesopallium, nidopallium, arcopallium, and hippocampal complex. The extent of these subdivisions and brain nuclei are described according to stereotaxic coordinates. In addition, 3D depictions of pallial regions were reconstructed from these slices. While the overall organization of the carrion crow's brain matches other songbird brains, the relative proportions and expansions of associative pallial areas differ considerably in agreement with enhanced cognitive skills found in corvids. The presented global organization of the crow brain in stereotaxic coordinates will help to guide future neurobiological studies in corvids.}, }
@article {pmid35935789, year = {2022}, author = {Cheng, H and Zhang, R and Zhuo, F}, title = {Synergistic effect of microneedle-delivered extracellular matrix compound and radiofrequency on rejuvenation of periorbital wrinkles.}, journal = {Frontiers in medicine}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {900784}, pmid = {35935789}, issn = {2296-858X}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: A combination of minimally invasive modalities can induce collagen regeneration more quickly and promote the penetration of topical agents, thus promoting skin rejuvenation. In this study, we aimed to investigate the synergistic efficacy of extracellular matrix compound (ECM-C) via microneedle (MN) and radiofrequency (RF) on periorbital wrinkles.<br><br>METHOD: A total of 25 participants with periorbital wrinkles were selected for this study. The left and right side of the periorbital area was randomly given ECM-C via MN or ECM-C via MN combined with RF. MN combined with ECM-C treatment was given 5 times at 2 weeks intervals, whereas RF treatment was given 3 times at 4-week intervals. The following items were assessed: wrinkles by VISIA[&#xae;] system; biophysical parameters such as skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), erythema index, and melanin index by CK multiple probe adapter; and skin elasticity and skin thickness by DermaLab Combo[&#xae;] photographs were taken at the baseline and 2 weeks after the last treatment. Subjective assessments, such as Crow's Feet Grading Scale (CFGS) and Global Aesthetic International Scale (GAIS), were also recorded.<br><br>RESULT: A total of 25 participants with an average age of 43 years participated in this trial. Periorbital wrinkles on both sides decreased after the treatment, and the side treated with ECM via MN and RF showed better improvement than the other side with ECM-C via MN alone. Skin hydration increased after the treatment on both sides. TEWL, skin erythema, and skin melanin indexes were not changed. Skin elasticity and skin thickness increased more on the side of ECM-C via MN and RF than on the other side of ECM-C via MN alone. The evaluation scores for CFGS improved on either side; however, no difference was found for CFGS and GAIS between intergroup comparisons after the treatment.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The objective assessment of wrinkles, elasticity, and thickness of periorbital skin improved more on the side with ECM-C treatment via MN combined with RF than on the other side of ECM-C treatment via MN only. However, no statistically significant difference was found between the subjective CFGS and GAIS evaluation of the two sides.}, }
@article {pmid35906262, year = {2022}, author = {Das Gupta, S and Barua, B and Fournié, G and Hoque, MA and Henning, J}, title = {Village and farm-level risk factors for avian influenza infection on backyard chicken farms in Bangladesh.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {13009}, pmid = {35906262}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {BB/L018993/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/L018993/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Bangladesh/epidemiology ; Chickens ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Farms ; *Influenza in Birds ; Poultry ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {A cross-sectional study was conducted with 144 small-scale poultry farmers across 42 Bangladeshi villages to explore risk factors associated with avian influenza H5 and H9 seropositivity on backyard chicken farms. Using mixed-effects logistic regression with village as random effect, we identified crow abundance in garbage dumping places and presence of migratory wild birds within villages to be associated with higher odds of H5 and H9 seropositivity. At farm-level, garbage around poultry houses was also associated with higher odds of H5 and H9 seropositivity. In addition, specific trading practices (such as, purchase of chickens from live bird markets (LBM) and neighboring farms to raise them on their own farms, frequency of visits to LBM, purchase of poultry at LBM for consumption) and contact of backyard chickens with other animals (such as, feeding of different poultry species together, using pond water as drinking source for poultry, access of feral and wild animals to poultry houses) were associated with higher odds of H5 or H9 seropositivity. Resource-constrained small-scale poultry farmers should be able to address risk factors identified in this study without requiring large investments into poultry management, thereby reducing the likelihood of avian influenza virus transmission and ultimately occurrence of avian influenza outbreaks.}, }
@article {pmid35900860, year = {2022}, author = {Cai, Y and Yang, C and Wang, S and Xue, G}, title = {The Neural Mechanism Underlying Visual Working Memory Training and Its Limited Transfer Effect.}, journal = {Journal of cognitive neuroscience}, volume = {34}, number = {11}, pages = {2082-2099}, doi = {10.1162/jocn_a_01897}, pmid = {35900860}, issn = {1530-8898}, mesh = {Humans ; Learning/physiology ; *Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; Problem Solving ; *Transfer, Psychology/physiology ; }, abstract = {Visual working memory (VWM) training has been shown to improve performance in trained tasks with limited transfer to untrained tasks. The neural mechanism underlying this limited transfer remains unknown. In the present study, this issue was addressed by combining model-fitting methods with EEG recordings. Participants were trained on a color delay estimation task for 12 consecutive 1-hr sessions, and the transfer effect was evaluated with an orientation change detection task. The EEG responses during both tasks were collected in a pretraining test, a posttraining test conducted 1 day after training, and a follow-up test conducted 3 months after training. According to our model-fitting results, training significantly improved the capacity but not the precision of color working memory (WM), and this capacity improvement did not transfer to the orientation change detection task, spatial 2-back task, symmetry span task, or Raven reasoning test. The EEG results revealed that training resulted in a specific and sustained increase in parietal theta power suppression in the color WM task, which reflected individual color WM capacity. In contrast, the increase in parietal-temporal alpha power, which reflected individual orientation WM capacity, did not change with training. Together, these findings suggest that the simultaneous change of stimulus type and task structure would modulate the cognitive and neural substrates of WM tasks and introduce additional constraints for the transfer of WM training.}, }
@article {pmid35899401, year = {2023}, author = {Korkmaz, M and Sapmaz-Yurtsever, S and Kaçar-Başaran, S and Demiral, N and Çabuk, T}, title = {Bender-Gestalt II Test: Psychometric Properties with Global Scoring System on a Turkish Standardization Sample.}, journal = {Child neuropsychology : a journal on normal and abnormal development in childhood and adolescence}, volume = {29}, number = {4}, pages = {607-627}, doi = {10.1080/09297049.2022.2104237}, pmid = {35899401}, issn = {1744-4136}, mesh = {Humans ; Child, Preschool ; Child ; Adolescent ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Bender-Gestalt Test ; *Psychomotor Performance ; Reference Standards ; }, abstract = {The present study aims to standardize the Bender-Gestalt II Test by exploring its psychometric properties on a Turkish sample between the ages of 4 and 17 years and to obtain its normative values. The standardization sample consisted of 2691 students aged 4.0-17.11 years/months from low, middle, and high socioeconomic statuses, attending preschool, primary, and high school education. The participants were administered the Bender-Gestalt II Test and other tests, including the Gesell Developmental Schedules test, Colored Progressive Matrices Test, Goodenough Draw-a-Man Test, Test of Nonverbal Intelligence, Raven Standard Progressive Matrices Test, and Visual-Aural Digit Span Test-Revised Form, according to their age groups. The results revealed the absolute agreement values of the Copy items to be between .87 and .98. Thereafter, we calculated the test-retest reliability coefficients of the Copy scores to range from .74 to .67 by age groups, while the split-half reliability coefficients for each age group were between .62 and .87. The results of the exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses suggested its single-factor structure for all age groups. The Copy scores showed significant correlations and predicted the criterion characteristics, which include general cognitive ability, mental development/fine motor skills, short-term memory, and attention. Overall, the present study confirmed that the Bender-Gestalt II Test is a valid, reliable, and standardized measure to evaluate the visual-motor integration ability of those aged 4.0-17.11 years/months.}, }
@article {pmid35897325, year = {2022}, author = {Lima, RA and Soares, FC and van Poppel, M and Savinainen, S and Mäntyselkä, A and Haapala, EA and Lakka, T}, title = {Determinants of Cognitive Performance in Children and Adolescents: A Populational Longitudinal Study.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {19}, number = {15}, pages = {}, pmid = {35897325}, issn = {1660-4601}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Cognition ; *Exercise ; Female ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; Intelligence Tests ; *Life Style ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Physical Fitness ; }, abstract = {We evaluated the determinants of cognitive performance in children and adolescents. This is a longitudinal study, secondary analysis of the Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children (PANIC) study. We assessed 502 children (51.6% girls) at middle childhood (range: 6.6 to 9.0 years), at late childhood, 437 children (51.0% girls, range: 8.8 to 11.2 years), and in 277 adolescents (54.5% girls, range: 15.0 to 17.4 years). Raven's progressive matrices tests estimated the participants' cognitive performance (outcome variable) at all time points. In total, we evaluated 29 factors from various dimensions (prenatal, neonatal, child fitness, lifestyle and anthropometrics). None of the neonatal and anthropometric parameters were associated with cognitive performance. Preeclampsia (prenatal) and listening to music, writing, arts and craft and watching TV (lifestyle) were negatively associated with cognitive performance. Shuttle run and box and block tests (fitness), and playing music, reading and time at the computer (lifestyle) were positive determinants of cognitive performance in children and adolescents. Fitness and lifestyle factors during childhood and adolescence diminished the importance of prenatal factors on cognitive performance and lifestyle factors were especially relevant in regard to cognitive performance. Reading was positively associated with cognitive performance, regardless of age and time dedicated, and should be promoted.}, }
@article {pmid35896346, year = {2022}, author = {Naka, A and Hinenoya, A and Awasthi, SP and Yamasaki, S}, title = {Isolation and characterization of Escherichia albertii from wild and safeguarded animals in Okayama Prefecture and its prefectural borders, Japan.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {84}, number = {9}, pages = {1299-1306}, pmid = {35896346}, issn = {1347-7439}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Dogs ; *Escherichia/genetics ; Feces/microbiology ; Humans ; Japan/epidemiology ; Mammals ; Rabbits ; }, abstract = {Escherichia albertii has recently been recognized as a zoonotic enteropathogen associated with food poisoning. The reservoirs and transmission routes of this bacterium to humans are still unclear. In this study, we performed a survey of E. albertii in fecal specimens of wild and safeguarded animals in Okayama Prefecture and its prefectural borders, Japan to understand its reservoir in the environment. Forty-two E. albertii were isolated from 10 and 31 droppings of 59 crows and 125 starlings, respectively. Fifty-two E. albertii were isolated from 906 mammal droppings, and out of 52 isolates, origin of 33, 6 and 1 isolates were from martens, foxes, and rabbit, respectively, however, origin of 12 isolates remained unknown. Three E. albertii were isolated from two and one feces of 159 dogs and 76 cats, respectively. Pulsed-filed gel electrophoresis analysis grouped 97 E. albertii strains into 66 pulsotypes including 36 and 30 pulsotypes of isolates from mammals and birds, respectively. E. albertii strains isolated in this study were genetically diverse. Although clonal relationship was not observed between mammal and bird isolates, there were intra- and inter-species relationship in mammalian isolates. All E. albertii strains were positive for eae and Eacdt virulence genes. Furthermore, 20 and 7 strains also carried Eccdt-I and stx2f genes, respectively. Taken together, the results indicate that genetically diverse and potentially virulent E. albertii are distributed among various wild and safeguarded animals in Okayama Prefecture, and the animals could also be reservoirs of E. albertii.}, }
@article {pmid35893267, year = {2022}, author = {Janurik, M and Józsa, K}, title = {Long-Term Impacts of Early Musical Abilities on Academic Achievement: A Longitudinal Study.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {10}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {35893267}, issn = {2079-3200}, support = {NKFI K124839//National Research, Development and Innovation Office, Hungary/ ; MTA-MATE Early Childhood Research Group//Content Pedagogy Research Program of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences/ ; }, abstract = {Numerous neurological, psychological, and transfer studies confirmed the role of learning music in cognitive development and education. However, exploring the long-term impacts of early musical abilities on academic achievement has gained relatively little attention thus far. In a seven-year longitudinal study, we examined the predictive role of musical abilities in future success in school. The sample consisted of 76 Hungarian students. The independent variables were mothers' education and the tests administered to Grade-1 students, which included Raven's Progressive Matrices and tests on word reading, mathematics, and musical abilities. The dependent variable was GPA in Grade 7. All tests demonstrated adequate reliability. In the regression model with the most significant predictive role, the independent variables explained 46% of GPA in Grade 7 when taken together. We established the long-term predictive role of musical abilities in later success in school. Rhythm perception and reproduction demonstrated the most significant explanatory power (11%) of variance for GPA. Mathematics and mothers' education each explained 10% of the variance. The findings shed light on the positive impacts that early musical training may play in later academic achievement, even in the long run.}, }
@article {pmid35890782, year = {2022}, author = {Bhuiyan, R and Abdullah, J and Hashim, N and Al Farid, F and Mohd Isa, WN and Uddin, J and Abdullah, N}, title = {Deep Dilated Convolutional Neural Network for Crowd Density Image Classification with Dataset Augmentation for Hajj Pilgrimage.}, journal = {Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {22}, number = {14}, pages = {}, pmid = {35890782}, issn = {1424-8220}, mesh = {*Crowding ; Data Collection ; Islam ; Neural Networks, Computer ; Saudi Arabia/epidemiology ; *Travel ; }, abstract = {Almost two million Muslim pilgrims from all around the globe visit Mecca each year to conduct Hajj. Each year, the number of pilgrims grows, creating worries about how to handle such large crowds and avoid unpleasant accidents or crowd congestion catastrophes. In this paper, we introduced deep Hajj crowd dilated convolutional neural network (DHCDCNNet) for crowd density analysis. This research also presents augmentation technique to create additional dataset based on the hajj pilgrimage scenario. We utilized a single framework to extract both high-level and low-level features. For creating additional dataset we divide the process of images augmentation into two routes. In the first route, we utilized magnitude extraction followed by the polar magnitude. In the second route, we performed morphological operation followed by transforming the image into skeleton. This paper presented a solution to the challenge of measuring crowd density using a surveillance camera pointed at a distance. An FCNN-based technique for crowd analysis is included in the proposed methodology, particularly for classifying crowd density. There are several obstacles in video analysis when there are a large number of pilgrims moving around the tawaf area, with densities of between 7 and 8 per square meter. The proposed DHCDCNNet method has achieved accuracy of 97%, 89% and 100% for the JHU-CROWD dataset, the UCSD dataset and the proposed Hajj-Crowd dataset, respectively. The proposed Hajj-Crowd dataset, the UCSD dataset, and the JHU-CROW dataset all had accuracy of 98%, 97% and 97%, respectively, using the VGGNet approach. Using the ResNet50 approach, the proposed Hajj-Crowd dataset, the UCSD dataset, and the JHU-CROW dataset all had an accuracy of 99%, 91% and 97%, respectively.}, }
@article {pmid35883367, year = {2022}, author = {Jokimäki, J and Kaisanlahti-Jokimäki, ML and Suhonen, J}, title = {Long-Term Winter Population Trends of Corvids in Relation to Urbanization and Climate at Northern Latitudes.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {12}, number = {14}, pages = {}, pmid = {35883367}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {Corvids (crows, magpies, jays) live in a close association with humans, and therefore knowledge about their population status and changes will be an essential part of monitoring the quality of urban environments. Wintering bird populations can track habitat and climate changes more rapidly than breeding populations. We conducted a long-term (1991-2020) winter census of corvid species in 31 human settlements along a 920 km latitudinal gradient in Finland. We observed a total of five corvid species: the Eurasian Magpie (occurring in 114 surveys out of 122; total abundance 990 ind.), the Hooded Crow (in 96 surveys; 666 ind.), the Eurasian Jackdaw (in 51 surveys; 808 ind.), the Eurasian Jay (in 5 surveys; 6 ind.) and the Rook (in 1 survey; 1 ind.). Only the numbers of the Eurasian Jackdaw differed between the study winters, being greater at the end of the study period (2019/2020) than during the earlier winters (1991/1992 and 1999/2000). The average growth rate (λ) of the Eurasian Jackdaw increased during the study period, whereas no changes were observed in the cases of the Hooded Crow or the Eurasian Magpie. The growth rate of the Eurasian Jackdaw was greater than that observed in the Finnish bird-monitoring work, probably because our data came only from the core area of each human settlement. Even though the number of buildings and their cover increased in the study plots, and the winter temperature differed between winters, the average growth rate (λ) of corvid species did not significantly correlate with these variables. These results suggest that urban settlements are stable wintering environments for the generalist corvids. The between-species interactions were all positive, but non-significant. Despite the total number of winter-feeding sites being greater during the winter of 1991/1992 than during the winter of 2019/2020, the changes in the numbers of feeding stations did not correlate with the growth rates of any corvid species. We assume that the Eurasian Jackdaw has benefitted from the decreased persecution, and probably also from large-scale climate warming that our study design was unable to take in to account. Our results indicated that wintering corvid populations succeed well in the human settlements in Finland. We recommend conducting long-term corvid research, also during breeding season, to understand more detailed causes of the population changes of corvids along an urban gradient. Without year-round long-term monitoring data, the conservation and management recommendations related to the corvid species in urban habitats may be misleading.}, }
@article {pmid35880187, year = {2022}, author = {Calić, G and Glumbić, N and Petrović-Lazić, M and Đorđević, M and Mentus, T}, title = {Searching for Best Predictors of Paralinguistic Comprehension and Production of Emotions in Communication in Adults With Moderate Intellectual Disability.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {884242}, pmid = {35880187}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Paralinguistic comprehension and production of emotions in communication include the skills of recognizing and interpreting emotional states with the help of facial expressions, prosody and intonation. In the relevant scientific literature, the skills of paralinguistic comprehension and production of emotions in communication are related primarily to receptive language abilities, although some authors found also their correlations with intellectual abilities and acoustic features of the voice. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate which of the mentioned variables (receptive language ability, acoustic features of voice, intellectual ability, social-demographic), presents the most relevant predictor of paralinguistic comprehension and paralinguistic production of emotions in communication in adults with moderate intellectual disabilities (MID). The sample included 41 adults with MID, 20-49 years of age (M = 34.34, SD = 7.809), 29 of whom had MID of unknown etiology, while 12 had Down syndrome. All participants are native speakers of Serbian. Two subscales from The Assessment Battery for Communication - Paralinguistic comprehension of emotions in communication and Paralinguistic production of emotions in communication, were used to assess the examinees from the aspect of paralinguistic comprehension and production skills. For the graduation of examinees from the aspect of assumed predictor variables, the following instruments were used: Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test was used to assess receptive language abilities, Computerized Speech Lab ("Kay Elemetrics" Corp., model 4300) was used to assess acoustic features of voice, and Raven's Progressive Matrices were used to assess intellectual ability. Hierarchical regression analysis was applied to investigate to which extent the proposed variables present an actual predictor variables for paralinguistic comprehension and production of emotions in communication as dependent variables. The results of this analysis showed that only receptive language skills had statistically significant predictive value for paralinguistic comprehension of emotions (β = 0.468, t = 2.236, p < 0.05), while the factor related to voice frequency and interruptions, form the domain of acoustic voice characteristics, displays predictive value for paralinguistic production of emotions (β = 0.280, t = 2.076, p < 0.05). Consequently, this study, in the adult population with MID, evidenced a greater importance of voice and language in relation to intellectual abilities in understanding and producing emotions.}, }
@article {pmid35879564, year = {2023}, author = {Loh, Z and Hall, EH and Cronin, D and Henderson, JM}, title = {Working memory control predicts fixation duration in scene-viewing.}, journal = {Psychological research}, volume = {87}, number = {4}, pages = {1143-1154}, pmid = {35879564}, issn = {1430-2772}, support = {R01 EY027792/EY/NEI NIH HHS/United States ; R01-EY027792//Foundation for the National Institutes of Health/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Memory, Short-Term ; *Fixation, Ocular ; Eye Movements ; Saccades ; Cognition ; }, abstract = {When viewing scenes, observers differ in how long they linger at each fixation location and how far they move their eyes between fixations. What factors drive these differences in eye-movement behaviors? Previous work suggests individual differences in working memory capacity may influence fixation durations and saccade amplitudes. In the present study, participants (N = 98) performed two scene-viewing tasks, aesthetic judgment and memorization, while viewing 100 photographs of real-world scenes. Working memory capacity, working memory processing ability, and fluid intelligence were assessed with an operation span task, a memory updating task, and Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices, respectively. Across participants, we found significant effects of task on both fixation durations and saccade amplitudes. At the level of each individual participant, we also found a significant relationship between memory updating task performance and participants' fixation duration distributions. However, we found no effect of fluid intelligence and no effect of working memory capacity on fixation duration or saccade amplitude distributions, inconsistent with previous findings. These results suggest that the ability to flexibly maintain and update working memory is strongly related to fixation duration behavior.}, }
@article {pmid35878200, year = {2022}, author = {Yi, KH and Lee, JH and Kim, GY and Yoon, SW and Oh, W and Kim, HJ}, title = {Novel Anatomical Proposal for Botulinum Neurotoxin Injection Targeting Lateral Canthal Rhytids.}, journal = {Toxins}, volume = {14}, number = {7}, pages = {}, pmid = {35878200}, issn = {2072-6651}, mesh = {*Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; Facial Muscles ; Injections ; *Lacrimal Apparatus ; *Neuromuscular Agents ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {Botulinum neurotoxin injections near the lateral canthal rhytids are commonly used in cosmetic settings; however, there is a lack of thorough anatomical knowledge, and an effective way to treat them with accumulating knowledge is needed. The anatomical characteristics concerning the injection of botulinum neurotoxin into the orbicularis oculi muscle were evaluated in this review. Current knowledge on the identification of botulinum neurotoxin injection points from recent anatomical research was assessed. The lateral canthal lines are involved with the orbicularis oculi muscle and nearby anatomical structures, and the injection points can be more precisely defined. The best possible injection sites were provided, and the injection procedure was described. This review proposes evidence for injection sites associated with the surface anatomy of the orbicularis oculi muscles to enhance the effectiveness of easing lateral canthal rhytids.}, }
@article {pmid35864204, year = {2022}, author = {Ali, KA and Mori, BA and Prager, SM and Willenborg, CJ}, title = {Seed choice in ground beetles is driven by surface-derived hydrocarbons.}, journal = {Communications biology}, volume = {5}, number = {1}, pages = {724}, pmid = {35864204}, issn = {2399-3642}, mesh = {Animals ; *Brassica napus ; *Coleoptera ; Hydrocarbons ; Seeds ; Smell ; }, abstract = {Ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) are among the most prevalent biological agents in temperate agroecosystems. Numerous species function as omnivorous predators, feeding on both pests and weed seeds, yet the sensory ecology of seed perception in omnivorous carabids remains poorly understood. Here, we explore the sensory mechanisms of seed detection and discrimination in four species of omnivorous carabids: Poecilus corvus, Pterostichus melanarius, Harpalus amputatus, and Amara littoralis. Sensory manipulations and multiple-choice seed feeding bioassays showed olfactory perception of seed volatiles as the primary mechanism used by omnivorous carabids to detect and distinguish among seeds of Brassica napus, Sinapis arvensis, and Thlaspi arvense (Brassicaceae). Seed preferences differed among carabid species tested, but the choice of desirable seed species was generally guided by the olfactory perception of long chain hydrocarbons derived from the seed coat surface. These olfactory seed cues were essential for seed detection and discrimination processes to unfold. Disabling the olfactory appendages (antennae and palps) of carabid beetles by ablation left them unable to make accurate seed choices compared to intact beetles.}, }
@article {pmid35858056, year = {2022}, author = {Ręk, P and Magrath, RD}, title = {Reality and illusion: the assessment of angular separation of multi-modal signallers in a duetting bird.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {289}, number = {1978}, pages = {20220680}, pmid = {35858056}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation ; Animals ; Auditory Perception/physiology ; Australia ; *Illusions ; Male ; *Passeriformes ; Photic Stimulation ; *Songbirds/physiology ; Territoriality ; Visual Perception/physiology ; }, abstract = {The spatial distribution of cooperating individuals plays a strategic role in territorial interactions of many group-living animals, and can indicate group cohesion. Vocalizations are commonly used to judge the distribution of signallers, but the spatial resolution of sounds is poor. Many species therefore accompany calls with movement; however, little is known about the role of audio-visual perception in natural interactions. We studied the effect of angular separation on the efficacy of multimodal duets in the Australian magpie-lark, Grallina cyanoleuca. We tested specifically whether conspicuous wing movements, which typically accompany duets, affect responses to auditory angular separation. Multimodal playbacks of duets using robotic models and speakers showed that birds relied primarily on acoustic cues when visual and auditory angular separations were congruent, but used both modalities to judge separation between the signallers when modalities were spatially incongruent. The visual component modified the effect of acoustic separation: robotic models that were apart weakened the response when speakers were together, while models that were together strengthened responses when speakers were apart. Our results show that responses are stronger when signallers are together, and suggest that males were are able to bind information cross-modally on the senders' spatial location, which is consistent with a multisensory illusion.}, }
@article {pmid35849899, year = {2022}, author = {Saito, Y and Takeshita, E and Komaki, H and Nishino, I and Sasaki, M}, title = {Determining neurodevelopmental manifestations in Duchenne muscular dystrophy using a battery of brief tests.}, journal = {Journal of the neurological sciences}, volume = {440}, number = {}, pages = {120340}, doi = {10.1016/j.jns.2022.120340}, pmid = {35849899}, issn = {1878-5883}, mesh = {*Autism Spectrum Disorder ; Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Humans ; *Intellectual Disability ; Male ; *Muscular Dystrophy, Duchenne/complications/diagnosis/genetics ; Quality of Life ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: We report neurodevelopmental manifestations in boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and evaluate the correlations between mutation location and three neurodevelopmental abnormalities: intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, and attentional problems.<br><br>METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 55 Japanese boys with genetically confirmed DMD who visited the outpatient department of the National Center for Psychiatry and Neurology of Japan from October 2017 to April 2018. Neurodevelopmental manifestations were evaluated using the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM), the Parent-Interview Autism Spectrum Disorder Rating Scale-Text Revision (PARS-TR), and the Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder-Rating Scale.<br><br>RESULTS: Among the 55 boys (mean [standard deviation, SD] age, 9.5 [1.6] years), 24 (43.6%) scored below -2.0 SD in RCPM, indicating intellectual disability. Further, 83% had DMD variants in exon 45 or downstream to it (P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.005). On the PARS-TR, 30 (55%) and 21 boys (38%) scored higher than the clinical cutoff score in childhood and present scores, respectively. Stereotyped behavior and restricted interests scores were found to decrease with age (P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.003 and P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.01, respectively).<br><br>DISCUSSION: The results show that boys with DMD who have intellectual disability commonly have DMD variants in exon 45 or downstream to it. Stereotyped behavior and restricted interests improved with age, while intellectual disability did not.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Understanding these characteristics of neurodevelopmental disability may reduce risky behaviors and improve the overall quality of life of patients with DMD.}, }
@article {pmid35844858, year = {2022}, author = {Ram, B and Thakur, R}, title = {Epidemiology and Economic Burden of Continuing Challenge of Infectious Diseases in India: Analysis of Socio-Demographic Differentials.}, journal = {Frontiers in public health}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {901276}, pmid = {35844858}, issn = {2296-2565}, mesh = {*Communicable Diseases/epidemiology ; Family Characteristics ; Female ; Financial Stress ; *Financing, Personal ; Health Expenditures ; Humans ; }, abstract = {Unlike other low- and middle-income countries, infectious diseases are still predominant, and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are emerging without replacing the burden of infectious diseases in India, where it is imposing a double burden of diseases on households in the country. This study aimed to analyse the socio-economic and demographic differentials in the magnitude of economic burden and coping strategies associated with health expenditure on infectious diseases in India. National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO) data on "Key Indicators of Social Consumption in India: Health, (2017-18)" have been employed in this study. The findings of the study revealed that more than 33% of the individuals are still suffering from infectious diseases out of the total ailing population in India. Based on the various socio-economic and demographic covariates, infectious diseases are highly prevalent among individuals with marginalized characteristics, such as individuals residing in rural areas, females, 0-14 age groups, Muslims, illiterates, scheduled tribes (STs), and scheduled castes (SCs), large family households, and economically poor people in the country. The per capita out-of-pocket (OOP) expenditure on infectious diseases is INR 7.28 and INR 29.38 in inpatient and outpatient care, respectively. Whereas, monthly per patient OOP expenditure on infectious diseases by infection-affected populations is INR 881.56 and INR 1,156.34 in inpatient and outpatient care in India. The study found that people residing in rural areas, SCs followed by other backward classes (OBCs), illiterates, poor, and very poor are more dependent on borrowings, sale of assets, and other distressed sources of financing. However, under National Health Policy 2017, many initiatives, such as "Ayushman Bharat," PM-JAY, and National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) in 2021, have been launched by the government of India in the recent years. These initiatives are holistically launched for ensuring better health facilities, but it is early to make any prediction regarding its outcomes; hopefully, the time will define it over the passing of a few more years. Finally, the study proposed the need for proper implementations of policy initiatives, awareness against unhygienic conditions and contamination of illnesses, immunisations/vaccination campaigns, subsidized medical facilities, and the country's expansion of quality primary health-care facilities.}, }
@article {pmid35838408, year = {2022}, author = {Feng, Z and An, N and Yu, F and Ma, J and Li, N and Du, Y and Guo, M and Xu, K and Hou, X and Li, Z and Zhou, G and Ba, Y}, title = {Do methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase, cyclohydrolase, and formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase 1 polymorphisms modify changes in intelligence of school-age children in areas of endemic fluorosis?.}, journal = {Chinese medical journal}, volume = {135}, number = {15}, pages = {1846-1854}, pmid = {35838408}, issn = {2542-5641}, mesh = {Child ; Creatinine ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Fluorides/adverse effects/urine ; *Formate-Tetrahydrofolate Ligase ; Humans ; Intelligence/genetics ; Methylenetetrahydrofolate Dehydrogenase (NADP) ; Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (NADPH2) ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Excessive exposure to fluoride can reduce intelligence. Methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase, cyclohydrolase, and formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase 1 (MTHFD1) polymorphisms have important roles in neurodevelopment. However, the association of MTHFD1 polymorphisms with children's intelligence changes in endemic fluorosis areas has been rarely explored.<br><br>METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in four randomly selected primary schools in Tongxu County, Henan Province, from April to May in 2017. A total of 694 children aged 8 to 12 years were included in the study with the recruitment by the cluster sampling method. Urinary fluoride (UF) and urinary creatinine were separately determined using the fluoride ion-selective electrode and creatinine assay kit. Children were classified as the high fluoride group and control group according to the median of urinary creatinine-adjusted urinary fluoride (UF Cr) level. Four loci of MTHFD1 were genotyped, and the Combined Raven's Test was used to evaluate children's intelligence quotient (IQ). Generalized linear model and multinomial logistic regression model were performed to analyze the associations between children's UF Cr level, MTHFD1 polymorphisms, and intelligence. The general linear model was used to explore the effects of gene-environment and gene-gene interaction on intelligence.<br><br>RESULTS: In the high fluoride group, children's IQ scores decreased by 2.502 when the UF Cr level increased by 1.0&#x200a;mg/L (&#x3b2;&#x200a;=&#x200a;-2.502, 95% confidence interval [CI]:-4.411, -0.593), and the possibility for having "excellent" intelligence decreased by 46.3% (odds ratio&#x200a;=&#x200a;0.537, 95% CI: 0.290, 0.994). Children with the GG genotype showed increased IQ scores than those with the AA genotype of rs11627387 locus in the high fluoride group (P &#x200a; < &#x200a;0.05). Interactions between fluoride exposure and MTHFD1 polymorphisms on intelligence were observed (Pinteraction <&#x200a;0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that excessive fluoride exposure may have adverse effects on children's intelligence, and changes in children's intelligence may be associated with the interaction between fluoride and MTHFD1 polymorphisms.}, }
@article {pmid35833319, year = {2022}, author = {Mack, C and Uomini, N}, title = {Modulation of behavioural laterality in wild New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides): Vocalization, age and function.}, journal = {Laterality}, volume = {27}, number = {4}, pages = {379-405}, doi = {10.1080/1357650X.2022.2098969}, pmid = {35833319}, issn = {1464-0678}, mesh = {Animals ; Functional Laterality ; *Crows ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The New Caledonian crow (Corvus moneduloides) is known for displaying a unique set of tool-related behaviours, with the bird's bill acting as an individually consistently lateralized effector. However, we still fail to understand how such laterality develops, is modulated or even if its expression is consistent across other behavioural categories. Creating the first ethogram for this species allowed us to examine laterality and vocalisations in a population of wild, free-flying New Caledonian crows using detailed analyses of close-up video footage. We revealed the existence of an overall strong left-sided bias during object manipulation only and which was driven by the adult crows of our focal population, the stabilization of individual preferences occurring during the birds' juvenile years. Individually, at least one crow showed consistent side biases to the right and left within different behavioural categories. Our findings highlight previously unknown variability in behavioural laterality in this species, thus advocating for further investigation. Specifically, we argue that a better understanding of the New Caledonian crow's biology and ecology is required if one wishes to pursue the promising comparative road that laterality could be connected to the evolution of tool-making.}, }
@article {pmid35831804, year = {2022}, author = {Krishnamoorthy, S and Liu, Y and Liu, K}, title = {A novel oppositional binary crow search algorithm with optimal machine learning based postpartum hemorrhage prediction model.}, journal = {BMC pregnancy and childbirth}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {560}, pmid = {35831804}, issn = {1471-2393}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Animals ; *Crows ; Female ; Humans ; Machine Learning ; *Postpartum Hemorrhage/diagnosis/etiology ; Pregnancy ; *Shock/complications ; }, abstract = {Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is an obstetric emergency instigated by excessive blood loss which occurs frequently after the delivery. The PPH can result in volume depletion, hypovolemic shock, and anemia. This is particular condition is considered a major cause of maternal deaths around the globe. Presently, physicians utilize visual examination for calculating blood and fluid loss during delivery. Since the classical methods depend on expert knowledge and are inaccurate, automated machine learning based PPH diagnosis models are essential. In regard to this aspect, this study introduces an efficient oppositional binary crow search algorithm (OBCSA) with an optimal stacked auto encoder (OSAE) model, called OBCSA-OSAE for PPH prediction. The goal of the proposed OBCSA-OSAE technique is to detect and classify the presence or absence of PPH. The OBCSA-OSAE technique involves the design of OBCSA based feature selection (FS) methods to elect an optimum feature subset. Additionally, the OSAE based classification model is developed to include an effective parameter adjustment process utilizing Equilibrium Optimizer (EO). The performance validation of the OBCSA-OSAE technique is performed using the benchmark dataset. The experimental values pointed out the benefits of the OBCSA-OSAE approach in recent methods.}, }
@article {pmid35805338, year = {2022}, author = {Shrader-Frechette, K}, title = {Does Hazardous-Waste Testing Follow Technical Guidance, Thus Help Protect Environmental Justice and Health?.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {19}, number = {13}, pages = {}, pmid = {35805338}, issn = {1660-4601}, mesh = {Environmental Health ; Environmental Justice ; *Hazardous Waste ; Hazardous Waste Sites ; United States ; United States Environmental Protection Agency ; *Volatile Organic Compounds ; }, abstract = {Does representative hazardous-waste-site testing tend to follow or to violate government technical guidance? This is an important question, because following such guidance promotes reliable risk analysis, adequate remediation, and environmental-justice and -health protection. Yet only government documents typically address this question, usually only when it is too late, when citizens have already exhibited health harm, allegedly from living or working near current/former hazardous-waste sites. Because no systematic, representative, scientific analyses have answered the preceding question, this article begins to investigate it by posing a narrower part of the question: Does representative US testing of volatile-organic-compound (VOC) waste sites tend to follow or to violate government technical requirements? The article (i) outlines US/state-government technical guidance for VOC testing; (ii) develops criteria for discovering representative US cases of VOC testing; (iii) uses the dominant US Environmental Protection Agency method to assess whether these representative cases follow such guidance; (iv) employs the results of (iii) to begin to answer the preceding question; then (v) discusses the degree to which, if any, these results suggest threats to environmental health or justice. Our initial, but representative, results show that almost all US VOC-waste-site testing (that we investigated) violates government technical requirements and systematically underestimates risks, and this may help justify less expensive, potentially health-threatening cleanups, mostly in environmental justice communities. We outline needed future research and suggest two strategies to promote following government technical guidance for hazardous-waste testing.}, }
@article {pmid35800869, year = {2022}, author = {Srivastva, R and Sabharwal, A and Agrawal, A and Anita,  and Vershney, H and Srivastava, Y}, title = {Personality and achievement: A follow-up study.}, journal = {Industrial psychiatry journal}, volume = {31}, number = {1}, pages = {19-25}, pmid = {35800869}, issn = {0972-6748}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The health and well-being of medical students along with their successful progression is an important concern for society. Studies across the world demonstrated a high prevalence of psychiatric morbidity and low self-esteem among medical students requires immediate attention and effective management.<br><br>AIM: To compare the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress between the groups who have cleared all papers in the first attempt with those who have got supplementary at least in one paper during their MBBS course.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Raven's Progressive Matrices Scale, Eysenck personality Questionnaire, Sinha's Anxiety Scale, Stress Reaction Check (SRC) List, and 16-Personality Factors questionnaires were used along with performance score was recorded for the objective of the study.<br><br>RESULTS: Nonparametric tests, Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxon are used and found that RSPM scores and EPQ Lie-scale scores are statistically different as the P < 0.05. Overall performance and psychological problems association are found out using Spearman's correlation test and it is found that Factor C and Tough poise under 16 PF are significantly correlated.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The study concluded that there is a significant difference between the abstract reasoning between the two groups of students measured by RSPM. When the students are compared by taking gender as grouping variable the study concluded psychosis, lie scale value is significantly different in the two groups and the mean value is higher in the female group. It is also concluded that the stress level measured by SRC is significantly different and the mean value is higher in the female group. Furthermore, the global factors Tough poise and independence are found to be significantly different in two groups with 16 PF questionnaire.}, }
@article {pmid35799015, year = {2022}, author = {Domjanović, J and Matetic, A and Baković Kramarić, D and Domjanović Škopinić, T and Borić Škaro, D and Delić, N and Runjić, F and Jeličić, I}, title = {Association of the novel CROW-65 risk score and mortality in hospitalized kidney transplant recipients with COVID-19 : A retrospective observational study.}, journal = {Wiener klinische Wochenschrift}, volume = {134}, number = {23-24}, pages = {842-849}, pmid = {35799015}, issn = {1613-7671}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Humans ; *COVID-19/etiology ; Retrospective Studies ; *Crows ; *Kidney Transplantation/adverse effects ; Aftercare ; Patient Discharge ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Kidney transplant recipients (KTR) are a group of patients with heterogeneous risks for adverse outcomes with COVID-19, but risk stratification tools in this patient group are lacking.<br><br>METHODS AND PARTICIPANTS: This retrospective observational, hypothesis-generating study included 49 hospitalized adult KTR patients with COVID-19&#x202f;at the University Hospital of Split (August 2020 to October 2021) and evaluated the performance of novel risk score CROW-65 (age, Charlson Comorbidity Index [CCI] lactate dehydrogenase to white blood cell [LDH:WBC] ratio, and respiratory rate oxygenation [ROX index]). The primary outcome of the study was 30-day postdischarge all-cause mortality.<br><br>RESULTS: A&#xa0;total of 8 fatal events (16.3%) occurred during the study follow-up. When comparing CROW-65 by survival status, it was significantly increased in patients with fatal event (P&#x202f;<&#x2009;0.001). Using the Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, the CROW-65 risk score showed statistically significant association with mortality (HR 1.11, 95% CI 1.01-1.23, P&#x202f;=&#x2009;0.027), while receiving operator characteristics (ROC) showed significant discrimination of all-cause mortality with an AUC of 0.85 (95% CI 0.72-0.94, P&#x202f;<&#x2009;0.001), and satisfactory calibration (&#x3c7;[2] 4.91, P&#x202f;=&#x2009;0.555 and Harrell's&#xa0;C 0.835). Finally, survival Kaplan-Meier analysis confirmed significantly higher cumulative incidence of mortality with increasing risk score tertiles and curve separation after 13&#xa0;days (P&#x202f;=&#x2009;0.009).<br><br>CONCLUSION: A&#xa0;novel risk score CROW-65 showed significant association with all-cause mortality in KTR yielding important hypothesis-generating findings. Further powered studies should reassess the performance of CROW-65 risk score in this population, including predictability, calibration and discrimination.}, }
@article {pmid35793298, year = {2024}, author = {Malkinski, M and Mandziuk, J}, title = {Multi-Label Contrastive Learning for Abstract Visual Reasoning.}, journal = {IEEE transactions on neural networks and learning systems}, volume = {35}, number = {2}, pages = {1941-1953}, doi = {10.1109/TNNLS.2022.3185949}, pmid = {35793298}, issn = {2162-2388}, abstract = {For a long time, the ability to solve abstract reasoning tasks was considered one of the hallmarks of human intelligence. Recent advances in the application of deep learning (DL) methods led to surpassing human abstract reasoning performance, specifically in the most popular type of such problems-Raven's progressive matrices (RPMs). While the efficacy of DL systems is indeed impressive, the way they approach the RPMs is very different from that of humans. State-of-the-art systems solving RPMs rely on massive pattern-based training and sometimes on exploiting biases in the dataset, whereas humans concentrate on the identification of the rules/concepts underlying the RPM to be solved. Motivated by this cognitive difference, this work aims at combining DL with the human way of solving RPMs. Specifically, we cast the problem of solving RPMs into a multilabel classification framework where each RPM is viewed as a multilabel data point, with labels determined by the set of abstract rules underlying the RPM. For efficient training of the system, we present a generalization of the noise contrastive estimation algorithm to the case of multilabel samples and a new sparse rule encoding scheme for RPMs. The proposed approach is evaluated on the two most popular benchmark datasets [I-RAVEN and procedurally generated matrices (PGM)] and on both of them demonstrate an advantage over the state-of-the-art results.}, }
@article {pmid35789658, year = {2022}, author = {Kang, KH and Nam, KB and Kim, JS and Yoo, JC}, title = {Nest characteristics and composition of the colonial nesting Azure-winged magpie Cyanopica cyanus in South Korea.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {e13637}, pmid = {35789658}, issn = {2167-8359}, mesh = {Animals ; *Nesting Behavior ; Plant Breeding ; *Passeriformes ; Reproduction ; Republic of Korea ; }, abstract = {Bird nests are crucial for reproductive success since they serve as structures to hold the eggs and nestlings safely. Therefore, the structural characteristics of bird nests have optimally evolved to maximize reproductive success, which are known to be affected by various factors. We gathered information on the nest characteristics such as nest structure and constituent materials in the colonial breeding Azure-winged magpie (Cyanopica cyanus) and investigated the relationship between ecologically relevant factors and the size and mass of the nests. The Azure-winged magpie nest can be deconstructed into an outer nest and an inner cup, and the type and mass of materials used for the construction of each part varies. Compared to the inner cup, the outer nest, which constitutes the overall shape of the nest, is composed of relatively harder materials, such as branches and soil. In contrast, the inner cup, which is the part where birds directly incubate eggs and raise nestlings, is composed of more flexible and softer materials, such as fiber and moss. We found that there was no relationship between nest characteristics and ecologically relevant factors. However, as the breeding season progressed, the volume of the inner cup decreased with increasing ambient temperatures. Our results show that Azure-winged magpies use differing materials for structurally distinct parts of the nests during construction. The results also indirectly suggest that the choice regarding the amount of insulating materials relative to changing temperatures during the breeding season may be one of the more significant adaptive strategies in the nest-building behaviors of Azure-winged magpies.}, }
@article {pmid35785442, year = {2022}, author = {Du, Y and Doraiswamy, C and Mao, J and Zhang, Q and Liang, Y and Du, Z and Vasantharaghavan, R and Joshi, MK}, title = {Facial skin characteristics and concerns in Indonesia: A cross-sectional observational study.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {28}, number = {5}, pages = {719-728}, pmid = {35785442}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {*Acne Vulgaris ; Adult ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; *Hyperpigmentation/epidemiology ; Indonesia/epidemiology ; *Keratosis, Seborrheic ; *Lentigo ; *Melanosis ; Middle Aged ; *Skin Aging ; Water ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Facial skin characteristics and appearance vary according to ethnicity. While much of this knowledge is derived from the Caucasian population, lately there have been efforts to gain such understanding in various regions in Asia. In this paper, we have built an understanding of such features in Indonesia. In Indonesia, a section of females wears a traditional veil (hijab) to cover the scalp and part of face. The influence of the hijab on facial skin attributes was also investigated.<br><br>METHODS: In&#xa0;a cross-sectional observational study design&#xa0;involving 419 female volunteers in Jakarta, Indonesia, facial skin attributes (colour, radiance, hydration, trans-epidermal water loss [TEWL], wrinkles, fine lines, pores, and sebum levels) and conditions (melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), solar lentigines/ senile lentigines, seborrheic keratoses and acne) were assessed by trained operators and dermatologists using standard validated instruments and scales.<br><br>RESULTS: With age, facial skin colour showed darkening in cheek; forehead on the other hand showed slight lightening. The skin evenness and radiance decreased, substantially. Aging attributes measured in terms of lines, wrinkles, and under-eye dark circles showed deterioration with age; the decline was progressively faster than colour change. Facial image data analysis corroborated these findings.&#xa0;Skin hydration remained similar across the age groups even though the skin barrier function measured in terms of TEWL improved with age. Sebum levels in the skin were similar up to the age of 50 but declined in the next group of 50-60 year.&#xa0;Pore severity increased with age. Melasma, seborrheic keratosis and PIH showed a high prevalence (>&#x223c;50%) at the young age group (20-30 years), itself. Melasma prevalence attained 100% in the age group of 41-50 year and onwards, and its severity similarly showed a steady rise with age. PIH on the other hand showed a steady decline with age. Solar lentigines prevalence (&#x223c;30%) did not change much across age groups, and the severity scores were similar in age groups up to 50 year but increased substantially in 51-60-year age groups. Seborrheic keratosis was similar (&#x223c;47%) in age groups up 20-40 year but steadily increased in upper age groups.&#xa0;Its severity was similar in the age groups of 20-30 year and 31-40 year but showed a two-fold increase in subsequent age groups. Acne was 10% in the age group of 20-30 year and declined gradually to 0.7% in the 51-60-year age group. Hijab wearers showed slight protection in skin colour darkening and improvement of evenness and radiance but were similar on aging (fine lines and wrinkles on crow's feet, under eye and peri-oral areas) markers to non-wearers. In general, in majority of age-groups, hijab wearers showed a higher prevalence of melasma, solar/senile lentigines, seborrheic keratosis and PIH.}, }
@article {pmid35782054, year = {2022}, author = {Khosrozadeh, M and Ghadimi, S and Kazemzadeh Gharghabi, M and Kharrazifard, MJ and Hamrah, MH and Baghalian, A}, title = {The Correlation between Children's Intelligence Quotient and Their Behavior in Dental Setting: A Cross-Sectional Study.}, journal = {BioMed research international}, volume = {2022}, number = {}, pages = {2299215}, pmid = {35782054}, issn = {2314-6141}, mesh = {Child ; *Child Behavior ; Child, Preschool ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Parents ; }, abstract = {Children with high intelligence quotient (IQ) are more capable of managing adverse situations. These children may show more cooperation to receive dental treatments. This study assessed the effect of intelligence quotient (IQ) of 5-10-year-old children on their cooperation during dental treatments. Eighty children without previous dental history and in need of pulpotomy and stainless steel crowns in one tooth were selected. A written consent was obtained from the parents, and after the children's IQ was measured by Raven intelligence test, the treatments were performed and their cooperation level was determined using Frankl's behavior rating scale with rating 1 to rating 4 (definitely negative, negative, positive, and definitely positive). In this cross-sectional study, the relationship between IQ and cooperation level was analyzed by one-way ANOVA test while the effect of age and gender on IQ and cooperation level was studied by ordinal regression test. Out of the total samples, 5% had definitely negative, 16.2% had negative, 56.3% had positive, and 22.5% had definitely positive level of cooperation according to Frankl criteria. There was a significant and positive correlation between IQ and level of cooperation (r = 0.87, p < 0.001). According to the results of the linear regression analysis, to examine the effect of age, sex, and IQ variables on cooperation, children's age (p value = 0.003) had a positive effect on their cooperation, but gender had no effect on predicting IQ and cooperation level (p value = 0.557). Regarding significant relationship between IQ scores and cooperation level, dentists can predict cooperation in pediatric patients to deliver better treatments and increase patients' satisfaction.}, }
@article {pmid35782006, year = {2022}, author = {Nguyen, TN and Chen, N and Cosgrove, EJ and Bowman, R and Fitzpatrick, JW and Clark, AG}, title = {Dynamics of reduced genetic diversity in increasingly fragmented populations of Florida scrub jays,Aphelocoma coerulescens.}, journal = {Evolutionary applications}, volume = {15}, number = {6}, pages = {1018-1027}, pmid = {35782006}, issn = {1752-4571}, abstract = {Understanding the genomic consequences of population decline is important for predicting species' vulnerability to intensifying global change. Empirical information about genomic changes in populations in the early stages of decline, especially for those still experiencing immigration, remains scarce. We used 7834 autosomal SNPs and demographic data for 288 Florida scrub jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens; FSJ) sampled in 2000 and 2008 to compare levels of genetic diversity, inbreeding, relatedness, and lengths of runs of homozygosity (ROH) between two subpopulations within dispersal distance of one another but have experienced contrasting demographic trajectories. At Archbold Biological Station (ABS), the FSJ population has been stable because of consistent habitat protection and management, while at nearby Placid Lakes Estates (PLE), the population declined precipitously due to suburban development. By the onset of our sampling in 2000, birds in PLE were already less heterozygous, more inbred, and on average more related than birds in ABS. No significant changes occurred in heterozygosity or inbreeding across the 8-year sampling interval, but average relatedness among individuals decreased in PLE, thus by 2008 average relatedness did not differ between sites. PLE harbored a similar proportion of short ROH but a greater proportion of long ROH than ABS, suggesting one continuous population of shared demographic history in the past, which is now experiencing more recent inbreeding. These results broadly uphold the predictions of simple population genetic models based on inferred effective population sizes and rates of immigration. Our study highlights how, in just a few generations, formerly continuous populations can diverge in heterozygosity and levels of inbreeding with severe local population decline despite ongoing gene flow.}, }
@article {pmid35781294, year = {2022}, author = {Giangaspero, A and D'Onghia, V and Puccini, A and Caiaffa, MF and Macchia, L and Barlaam, A}, title = {When there is no communication between urban planners and public health operators: urban Dermanyssus gallinae infestations in humans.}, journal = {Igiene e sanita pubblica}, volume = {79}, number = {2}, pages = {62-69}, pmid = {35781294}, issn = {0019-1639}, mesh = {Animals ; Cities ; *Columbidae ; Health Promotion ; Humans ; *Mites ; Public Health ; }, abstract = {At the international level, it is necessary to apply urban health strategies that can integrate concrete actions to protect and promote health in urban and architectural planning. In cities, the "urban fauna" mostly consists of synanthropic birds (sparrows, starlings, swallows, martins, jackdaws, crows, hawks, gulls, pigeons) that have adapted to a continuous relationship with humans. These animals enrich the ecological network of biodiversity but also pose health problems. The most successful avian colonizers are pigeons (Columba livia), which proliferate due to the abundance of food available to them and the absence of predators. Pigeons may harbor several organisms that are pathogenic for humans, and among these the role of Dermanyssus gallinae should not be underestimated. In the absence of their preferred pigeon host, these mites will move from the nest to windowsills and window frames from which they attack humans. The Authors show that modern architectural design features in towns can favor the establishment and proliferation of pigeons, contributing to the public health risk for dermanyssosis or other diseases related to these birds. They describe an outbreak of dermanyssosis due to incorrect or unsuitable structural interventions, and highlight the need of re-thinking urban architectural choices in order to safeguard public health.}, }
@article {pmid35781211, year = {2022}, author = {Zorrilla, F and Kerkhoven, EJ}, title = {Reconstruction of Genome-Scale Metabolic Model for Hansenula polymorpha Using RAVEN.}, journal = {Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.)}, volume = {2513}, number = {}, pages = {271-290}, pmid = {35781211}, issn = {1940-6029}, mesh = {Genome, Fungal ; *Metabolic Networks and Pathways/genetics ; Models, Biological ; *Saccharomycetales/genetics/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Genome-scale metabolic models (GEMs) provide a useful framework for modeling the metabolism of microorganisms. While the applications of GEMs are wide and far reaching, the reconstruction and continuous curation of such models can be perceived as a tedious and time-consuming task. Using RAVEN, a MATLAB-based toolbox designed to facilitate the reconstruction analysis of metabolic networks, this protocol practically demonstrates how researchers can create their own GEMs using a homology-based approach. To provide a complete example, a draft GEM for the industrially relevant yeast Hansenula polymorpha is reconstructed.}, }
@article {pmid35779028, year = {2022}, author = {Seervai, RNH and Wiggins, CJ and Rosen, T}, title = {"The Raven Himself Is Hoarse:" Candida dubliniensis fungemia manifesting as an eschar.}, journal = {Skinmed}, volume = {20}, number = {3}, pages = {213-214}, pmid = {35779028}, issn = {1751-7125}, mesh = {Aged ; Animals ; Candida ; *Catheterization, Central Venous/methods ; *Catheterization, Peripheral/methods ; *Crows ; *Fungemia/complications/diagnosis ; Humans ; Male ; }, abstract = {A 65-year-old man with diabetes, end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis, coronary artery disease, and a prosthetic aortic valve. He presented to the emergency department with hypothermia (96.6°F), several weeks of anorexia and chills, and bilateral lower extremity tissue necrosis with erythema and edema (Figure 1A). He had a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line 8 weeks prior placed at another hospital for treatment of cellulitis. Laboratory results revealed anemia, azotemia, and leukocytosis (19,200 WBCs/mm[3]), and he was admitted for sepsis of unknown etiology. (SKINmed. 2022;20:213-214).}, }
@article {pmid35774139, year = {2022}, author = {Gallego-Abenza, M and Boucherie, PH and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Early social environment affects attention to social cues in juvenile common ravens, Corvus corax.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {9}, number = {6}, pages = {220132}, pmid = {35774139}, issn = {2054-5703}, support = {P 29705/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; P 33960/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; W 1262/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Social competence, i.e. defined as the ability to adjust the expression of social behaviour to the available social information, is known to be influenced by early-life conditions. Brood size might be one of the factors determining such early conditions, particularly in species with extended parental care. We here tested in ravens whether growing up in families of different sizes affects the chicks' responsiveness to social information. We experimentally manipulated the brood size of 13 captive raven families, creating either small or large families. Simulating dispersal, juveniles were separated from their parents and temporarily housed in one of two captive non-breeder groups. After five weeks of socialization, each raven was individually tested in a playback setting with food-associated calls from three social categories: sibling, familiar unrelated raven they were housed with, and unfamiliar unrelated raven from the other non-breeder aviary. We found that individuals reared in small families were more attentive than birds from large families, in particular towards the familiar unrelated peer. These results indicate that variation in family size during upbringing can affect how juvenile ravens value social information. Whether the observed attention patterns translate into behavioural preferences under daily life conditions remains to be tested in future studies.}, }
@article {pmid35772139, year = {2022}, author = {Zhu, C}, title = {Effects of Musicotherapy Combined with Cognitive Behavioral Intervention on the Cognitive Ability of Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.}, journal = {Psychiatria Danubina}, volume = {34}, number = {2}, pages = {288-295}, doi = {10.24869/psyd.2022.288}, pmid = {35772139}, issn = {0353-5053}, mesh = {*Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/diagnosis ; Child ; Cognition ; *Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ; Humans ; Social Skills ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) mainly manifests as learning difficulties, emotional impulsiveness, excessive activities, and attention deficit disorder. Given that it can influence social communication abilities, as well as physical and psychological health and viability, ADHD rehabilitation has attracted close attention. This study aims to discuss the influences of musicotherapy combined with cognitive behavioral intervention on the cognitive ability of children with ADHD and provide some references for ADHD rehabilitation.<br><br>SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A total of 120 children with ADHD in the Cooperative Hospital of Guangzhou University from June 2018 to May 2021 were chosen as the research objects. They were divided randomly into the control and observation groups with 60 cases in each group via the observing random digital method. The control group was the blank control and did not receive any intervention. The observation group received 16 weeks of musicotherapy combined with cognitive behavioral intervention. Symptoms and the results of the numerical cross-attention test, the Wisconsin card sorting test, the combined Raven's test (CRT), the Wechsler intelligence scale for children test, and Conner's child behavioral scale for parents of the two groups before and after the intervention were compared.<br><br>RESULTS: The relevant indexes of the control group did not show any significant changes after the intervention (P>0.05). In the intervention group, the accurately crossed number and net scores increased significantly, whereas the wrongly crossed number and missed crossed number scores and error; attention deficit; hyperactivity-impulsiveness; and ADHD-RS-&#x2163; total scores declined dramatically after intervention relative to those before the intervention. Moreover, the above indexes of the observation group showed more significant improvements than those of the control group (P<0.05). In the observation group, the conceptual level percentage and the number of completed classes had significantly increased and the number of discontinuous errors and number of continuous errors after the intervention had dropped sharply compared with those before. The above indexes of the observation group had improved significantly compared with those of the control group (P<0.05). Moreover, in both groups, the concentration/attention factor and CRT scores increased dramatically and the scores of Conner's child behavior scale after the intervention had dropped significantly compared with those before. After intervention, the above indexes of the observation group showed greater improvements than those of the control group (P<0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The musicotherapy combined with cognitive behavioral intervention can improve the cognitive functions of children with ADHD and has clinical application values.}, }
@article {pmid35771525, year = {2022}, author = {Baciadonna, L and Jerwood, GM and Farrar, BG and Clayton, NS and Emery, NJ}, title = {Investigation of mirror-self recognition in ravens (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {136}, number = {3}, pages = {194-198}, doi = {10.1037/com0000319}, pmid = {35771525}, issn = {1939-2087}, support = {//Templeton World Charity Foundation/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; *Crows ; *Passeriformes ; }, abstract = {Large-brained birds, such as corvids and parrots, tend to fail tests for self-recognition (mirror self-recognition [MSR]), but the limited positive evidence for MSR in these species has been questioned due to methodological limitations. In the present study, we aimed to investigate MSR in ravens by performing three mirror tests: a mirror exposure test, a mirror preference test, and a mark test. Across all three tests, the ravens' behavior was not consistent with MSR. Three out of six ravens infrequently interacted with the mirror and the nonmirror surfaces. Two birds explored the mirror and occasionally displayed contingent behaviors. Finally, the ravens made very few social displays toward the mirror, suggesting that at this stage they did not treat their reflection as a conspecific. These findings, along with the current evidence available, raise further questions on the validity of relying on one test to establish self-recognition and call for the development of methods beyond mirror tests to explore self-recognition in nonhuman animals. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid35771112, year = {2022}, author = {Zhang, Y and Peng, S and Ren, Y and Yao, T and Chu, H and Gao, Y and Tian, X}, title = {First report of Pseudomonas palleroniana causing potato soft rot in China.}, journal = {Plant disease}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1094/PDIS-04-22-0816-PDN}, pmid = {35771112}, issn = {0191-2917}, abstract = {Slimy potato (Solanum tuberosum) tubers with a foul-smelling odor were obtained from a potato field during harvest in Huize county (25.94°N; 103.40°E), Yunnan province, China in August 2021. The incidence of symptomatic potato tubers was approximately 5% while no symptoms were observed on potato stems. To isolate the causal agent, potato tubers were surface-disinfected and infected tissues were mashed in a 15 ml sterile centrifuge tube with 2 ml sterile distilled water. After a series of dilutions, a volume of 200 μl bacterial suspension from each dilution was spread on nutrient agar (NA) medium and incubated at 28 °C for 48 h. Single colonies randomly selected from NA plates were then picked and separately subcultured in nutrient broth (NB) medium. Pure cultures were acquired by successive streaking on NA medium. The colonies with irregular shapes were white and opaque (Fig. S1A). Among all the isolates, strain Q1 exhibited pectinolytic activity on inoculated potato tubers using a pin prick method with an inoculum concentration of 108 CFU/ml while no symptoms appeared for the control group using sterile water (Fig. S1B). However, no obvious pits were observed for strain Q1 when tested on crystal violet pectin (CVP) medium. To further identify the strain Q1, total DNA was extracted using the TaKaRa MiniBEST Bacteria Genomic DNA Extraction Kit. PCR amplification of 16S rDNA of strain Q1 was performed using the universal PCR primer pair 27F/1492R and followed by Sanger sequencing. The BLASTn analysis of the sequence (NCBI accession number ON631256) based on NCBI rRNA/ITS databases revealed 100% query coverage and 99.78% identity to the 16S rDNA sequences of type strain Pseudomonas tolaasii ATCC 33618 and Pseudomonas palleroniana CFBP 4389, respectively. Whole-genome sequencing of strain Q1 was then performed using the Illumina and Nanopore sequencing platform. A single contig (NCBI accession number CP092411) with a length of approx. 6.2 MB was obtained by de novo assembly using Raven (v1.5.1) (Vaser and Šikić 2021) and Pilon (v1.24) (Walker et al. 2014). The completeness and redundancy of this assembly was evaluated by BUSCO (v5.2.2) (Manni et al. 2021), and a score of 100% completeness indicated a high quality of the assembly. The genome sequence of strain Q1 was uploaded to the Type Strain Genome Server (TYGS) for a whole genome-based taxonomic analysis (Meier-Kolthoff and Göker 2019). The distance-based phylogeny revealed that strain Q1 is well clustered together with Pseudomonas palleroniana (Fig. S1C). Furthermore, a digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) value (86.9%) between strain Q1 and P. palleroniana was above the species boundary (≥70%), indicating that strain Q1 should be classified as P. palleroniana. In addition, P. palleroniana was re-isolated from potato tubers inoculated using a pin prick method with an inoculum concentration of 108 CFU/ml and was identified by morphological similarities and 16s rDNA sequencing described above, thus fulfilling Koch's postulates. Furthermore, aerial stem rot symptoms were observed after 3-5 days post inoculation of strain Q1 with a concentration of 108 CFU/ml on stems of young potato plants using a pin prick method (Fig. S1D). Notably, a couple of Pseudomonas spp. have been reported to cause soft rot in carrot (Godfrey and Marshall 2002) and melon (Zhang et al. 2016). To our knowledge, this is the first report of P. palleroniana causing soft rot on potato tuber in China.}, }
@article {pmid35766267, year = {2024}, author = {}, title = {Expression of Concern: Optimized lung tumor diagnosis system using enhanced version of crow search algorithm, Zernike moments, and support vector machine.}, journal = {Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. Part H, Journal of engineering in medicine}, volume = {238}, number = {4}, pages = {NP1}, doi = {10.1177/09544119221105206}, pmid = {35766267}, issn = {2041-3033}, }
@article {pmid35753785, year = {2022}, author = {Kuroha, Y and Takahashi, T and Arai, Y and Yoshino, M and Kasuga, K and Hasegawa, A and Matsubara, N and Koike, R and Ikeuchi, T}, title = {[Neuropsychological and regional cerebral blood flow of posterior parietal area features in patients with Parkinson's disease with mild cognitive impairment].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {62}, number = {7}, pages = {532-540}, doi = {10.5692/clinicalneurol.cn-001709}, pmid = {35753785}, issn = {1882-0654}, mesh = {Aged ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Cerebrovascular Circulation/physiology ; *Cognition Disorders ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnostic imaging/etiology ; *Neocortex ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Parkinson Disease/complications/diagnostic imaging ; }, abstract = {This study aimed to clarify associations between neuropsychological scales and regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) of on ‍[123]I-IMP-SPECT in patients with Parkinson's disease with mild cognitive impairment (PD-MCI). Forty-two participants (mean age, 65.5 ± 8.9 years; mean disease duration, 11.1 ±5.7 years) were evaluated using the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, third edition (WAIS-III), Wechsler Memory Scale, revised (WMS-R), Stroop test, Category word fluency, Auditory verbal learning test, Raven colored progressive matrices, Trail Making Test-B, and Clock drawing test. Participants were classified into PD-MCI and PD non-demented (PD-ND) using ten of these scales or its subtests. The rCBF of the posterior cingulate gyrus, precuneus, and parietal lobes was evaluated by ‍[123]I-IMP-SPECT using the easy Z-‍score imaging system (eZIS analysis). Extent was the extent index of voxels showing z-score > 2, and Severity was mean z-score in those regions on eZIS analysis. Cingulate island sign score (CIScore) was the ratio of integrated z-scores of the posterior cingulate gyrus to those of the posterior cortex.Twenty-three participants were diagnosed with PD-MCI (55%). The rCBF indices were significantly increased in the PD-MCI group compared to the PD-ND group (Extent: P = 0.047; CIScore: P = 0.006). These indices were significantly correlated with WAIS-III Processing Speed (Extent: P = 0.041, R = -0.317; Severity: P = 0.047, R = -0.309), Stroop effect (Extent: P = 0.003, R = 0.443; Severity: P = 0.004, R = 0.437), WMS-R Visual memory (Extent: P = 0.019, R = -0.361; Severity: P = 0.014, R = -0.375), and Delayed memory score (Extent: P = 0.005, R = -0.423; Severity: P = 0.044, R = -0.312). The rCBF indices showed no correlations with the number of impaired cognitive domains. Collectively, decreased posterior parietal area rCBF and lower scores on selective neuropsychological scales might be helpful to detect a transition period from PD-MCI to PD-D.}, }
@article {pmid35747185, year = {2022}, author = {Kizilkaya, MC and Kilic, SS and Bozkurt, MA and Sibic, O and Ohri, N and Faggen, M and Warren, L and Wong, J and Punglia, R and Bellon, J and Haffty, B and Sayan, M}, title = {Breast cancer awareness among Afghan refugee women in Turkey.}, journal = {EClinicalMedicine}, volume = {49}, number = {}, pages = {101459}, pmid = {35747185}, issn = {2589-5370}, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Background Refugees and asylum-seekers have lower levels of cancer awareness and this contributes to low rates of screening and more advanced cancers at diagnosis, compared to non-refugee populations, due largely to reduced access to medical information and care. The global Afghan refugee population is rapidly increasing with the ongoing Afghan political crisis. The present study investigates breast cancer (BC) awareness among Afghan refugee women.<br><br>METHODS: A cross-sectional survey of Afghan refugee women residing in Turkey was performed in September 2021. A validated BC patient awareness assessment, the Breast Cancer Awareness Measure (BCAM), was used to assess participants' knowledge of seven domains of BC: symptoms, self-examination, ability to notice breast changes, age-related risk of BC, urgency of addressing changes in the breast, BC risk factors, and BC screening. BCAM was translated into patients' native language and administered verbally by a physician with the assistance of an official interpreter. Routine statistical methods were employed for data analysis.<br><br>FINDINGS: A total of 430 patients were recruited to the study. The response rate was 97&#xb7;7% (420 patients). The median participant age was 35 years (range: 18 to 68 years). The majority of participants (84%) had no formal education. Most participants (96%) were married, and most (95%) were not employed. Awareness of warning signs of BC was low: only seven to 18% of participants recognized 11 common warning signs of BC. Participant use of breast self-exam (BSE) was low, with 82% of participants stating they rarely or never complete BSE. Zero of 420 patients reported ever seeing a physician for a change in their breasts. Awareness of risk factors for BC was also low: only 15% of participants recognized increasing age as a risk factor for BC, and other risk factors were only recognized by four to 39% of participants.<br><br>INTERPRETATION: BC awareness among Afghan refugee women is critically low. There is an urgent need to target this population for practical interventions to increase BC awareness, in addition to screening and earlier diagnosis. Evidence-based interventions include educational sessions in patients' native language and use of BSE and clinical breast examination for screening.<br><br>FUNDING: American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) - Association of Residents in Radiation Oncology (ARRO) Global Health Scholar Grant, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Jay Harris Junior Faculty Research Grant.}, }
@article {pmid35739314, year = {2022}, author = {Malvandi, H and Shamabadi, MH}, title = {Use of Feathers from Birds that Collided with Vehicles to Monitor Heavy Metal Contamination in Western Khorasan Razavi, Iran.}, journal = {Bulletin of environmental contamination and toxicology}, volume = {109}, number = {3}, pages = {495-501}, pmid = {35739314}, issn = {1432-0800}, mesh = {Accidents, Traffic ; Animals ; Birds ; *Environmental Monitoring/methods ; *Feathers/chemistry ; Iran ; *Metals, Heavy/analysis ; Pica ; Strigiformes ; }, abstract = {In the present study, lead, zinc and copper concentrations in the feathers of Common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), Eurasian magpie (Pica pica), Common buzzard (Buteo buteo), Crested lark (Galerida cristata), Eurasian hoopoe (Upupa epops), Little owl (Athene noctua), Long-eared owl (Asio otus), Eurasian eagle-owl (Bubo bubo) and Long-legged buzzard (Buteo rufinus) from Sabzevar and Neghab, Khorasan Razavi of Iran were measured. Almost all of the specimens were obtained from birds that had collided with vehicles or were unable to fly. There were no significant differences in metal concentrations between adult and juvenile, diurnal and nocturnal raptors and species with different diets. Elemental concentrations were lower than toxicity threshold values, so exposure to these elements does not appear to pose a health risk to the studied species. It should be noted that this study was the first study of metals in Galerida cristata, Asio otus and Buteo rufinus.}, }
@article {pmid35733075, year = {2022}, author = {Singh, MP and Prinja, S and Rajsekar, K and Gedam, P and Aggarwal, V and Sachin, O and Naik, J and Agarwal, A and Kumar, S and Sinha, S and Singh, V and Patel, P and Patel, AC and Joshi, R and Hazra, A and Misra, R and Mehrotra, D and Biswal, SB and Panigrahy, A and Gaur, KL and Pankaj, JP and Sharma, DK and Madhavi, K and Madhusudana, P and Narayanasamy, K and Chitra, A and Velhal, GD and Bhondve, AS and Bahl, R and Sachdeva, A and Kaur, S and Nagar, A and Bhargava, B}, title = {Cost of Surgical Care at Public Sector District Hospitals in India: Implications for Universal Health Coverage and Publicly Financed Health Insurance Schemes.}, journal = {PharmacoEconomics - open}, volume = {6}, number = {5}, pages = {745-756}, pmid = {35733075}, issn = {2509-4254}, support = {F.NO.T.11011/02/2017-HR//Department of Health Research/ ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), provisioning for surgical care is a public health priority. Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri-Jan Aarogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) is India's largest national insurance scheme providing free surgical and medical care. In this paper, we present the costs of surgical health benefit packages (HBPs) for secondary care in public district hospitals.<br><br>METHODS: The costs were estimated using mixed (top-down and bottom-up) micro-costing methods. In phase II of the Costing of Health Services in India (CHSI) study, data were collected from a sample of 27 district hospitals from nine states of India. The district hospitals were selected using stratified random sampling based on the district's composite development score. We estimated unit costs for individual services-outpatient (OP) visit, per bed-day in inpatient (IP) and intensive care unit (ICU) stays, and surgical procedures. Together, this was used to estimate the cost of 250 AB PM-JAY HBPs.<br><br>RESULTS: At the current level of utilization, the mean cost per OP consultation varied from US$4.10 to US$2.60 among different surgical specialities. The mean unit cost per IP bed-day ranged from US$13.40 to US$35.60. For the ICU, the mean unit cost per bed-day was US$74. Further, the unit cost of HBPs varied from US$564 for bone tumour excision to US$49 for lid tear repair.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Data on the cost of delivering surgical care at the level of district hospitals is of critical value for evidence-based policymaking, price-setting for surgical care and planning to strengthen the availability of high quality and cost-effective surgical care in district hospitals.}, }
@article {pmid35724843, year = {2022}, author = {Hallett, J and Feng, D and McCormick, AKHG and Allen, S and Inouye, J and Schure, M and Holder, S and Medicine, LO and Held, S}, title = {Improving Chronic Illness Self-Management with the Apsáalooke Nation: The Báa nnilah Project, a cluster randomized trial protocol.}, journal = {Contemporary clinical trials}, volume = {119}, number = {}, pages = {106835}, pmid = {35724843}, issn = {1559-2030}, support = {P20 GM103474/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; U01 MD010619/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; U54 GM104944/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Chronic Disease ; Community-Based Participatory Research ; Humans ; Quality of Life ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *Self-Management ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {Chronic illness (CI) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality for Indigenous people. In Montana, Indigenous communities disproportionately experience CI, a legacy of settler colonialism. For over two decades, Messengers for Health, an Apsáalooke (Crow Indian) non-profit, and Montana State University have partnered to improve community health using a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach. We developed Báa nnilah, an intervention utilizing community strengths, to improve CI self-management. This manuscript describes the protocol for a cluster randomized trial with two arms: an intervention group and a wait list control group, who both participated in the Báa nnilah program. Enrollment occurred through family/clan networks and community outreach and attended to limitations of existing CI self-management interventions by using an approach and content that were culturally consonant. Participants received program materials, attended seven gatherings focused on improving CI management, and received and shared health information through storytelling based on a conceptual framework from the Apsáalooke culture and incorporating CI self-management strategies. Participant support occurred within partnership dyads during and between gatherings, from community mentors, and by program staff. The study used mixed methods to evaluate the intervention, with qualitative measures including the Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Patient Activation Measure (PAM), and a suite of PROMIS measures, various physical tests and qualitative survey responses, semi-structured interviews, and outcomes shared by participants with program staff. We hypothesized that Báa nnilah would significantly improve participant health outcome measures across multiple dimensions with quality of life (QoL) as the primary outcome. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03036189. Registered on 30 January 2017. (From https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03036189).}, }
@article {pmid35723939, year = {2022}, author = {Cavallini, M and Papagni, M and Augelli, F and Muti, GF and Santorelli, A and Raichi, M}, title = {Heterogeneous crow's feet line patterns and customized botulinum toxin rejuvenating treatment.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {21}, number = {10}, pages = {4294-4300}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.15172}, pmid = {35723939}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Middle Aged ; Humans ; Adolescent ; Adult ; *Skin Aging ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; Esthetics ; Aging ; *Neuromuscular Agents ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: From early dynamic lines in smiling and squinting young people, crow's feet lines in the lateral canthal region evolve through prolonged tissue remodeling into mature, stable rhytids after the mid-to-late thirties, and requests for rejuvenating treatment. Because of the heterogeneous fanning behavior of crow's feet lines, individualizing neuromodulation with botulinum toxin injections might be a sound strategy to maximize aesthetic outcomes.<br><br>AIMS: To investigate the prevalence of variable crow's feet line patterns at maximum contracture and while smiling and comment on the relative distribution of such patterns and the influence of aging. These considerations will be the basis and rationale for future studies that will individualize the total 24-unit dose according to the distribution of crow's feet lines.<br><br>METHODS: Identifying CFL orientation at maximum frown and while smiling; assessment tool: the four-class 2015-version of Kane's classification further modified by converting the former "central fan pattern" into a new, more precisely defined "extended full-fan pattern" class.<br><br>RESULTS: The 323 cohort subjects had a mean age of 51.5&#xa0;&#xb1;&#x2009;9.28&#x2009;years. Although with some differences, outcomes in a central-southern real-world European Caucasian population appear similar to the distribution first studied in 2003 in a highly selected population in New England involved in double-blind clinical trials. The full-fan pattern predominated both at maximum contraction and when smiling, followed in prevalence by the upper-fan pattern at maximum contraction and the extended full-fan pattern while smiling. Age significantly influenced the crow's feet line pattern-lower-fan patterns were more frequent than other patterns in the real-world younger middle-age group (40-49&#x2009;years old); full-fan and extended full-fan patterns progressively more prevalent with aging.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The study confirms but somewhat modifies the previous evidence about the non-homogeneous distribution of crow's feet line fanning patterns in different age groups and reinforces the case to individualize the topography of botulinum toxin injections.}, }
@article {pmid35716350, year = {2022}, author = {Piao, JZ and Oh, W and Choi, YJ and Lee, JH and Bae, H and Hu, KS and Kim, HM and Kim, HJ}, title = {Ultrasonographic analyses of Crow's feet and novel guideline for botulinum toxin injection.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {21}, number = {9}, pages = {3787-3793}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.15167}, pmid = {35716350}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {1711138194,KMDF_PR_20200901_0109-01//Korea Medical Device Development Fund grant funded by the Korea government (the Ministry of Science and ICT, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the Ministry of Health &amp; Welfare, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety)/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; *Blepharoplasty/methods ; *Botulinum Toxins ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; Facial Muscles/diagnostic imaging ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Rhytidoplasty/methods ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Crow's feet are bilateral orbital wrinkles formed by the orbital portion of the orbicularis oculi muscle, which is the target muscle for botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) injection.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: This study's aim was to demonstrate a novel BoNT injection guideline by assessing muscle width, thickness, and dynamic features using ultrasonography.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty healthy Korean volunteers (10 men, 10 women; mean age, 25.6) participated. The width, thickness, and dynamic movement of the orbicularis oculi muscle were measured using ultrasonography. Two volunteers were selected to receive BoNT injections. Injections were administered using a novel method with two curved reference lines passing a point 15&#x2009;mm lateral to the lateral canthus (conventional injection) and a point 5&#x2009;mm lateral to the lateral margin of the frontal process of zygomatic bone (additional injection).<br><br>RESULT: At the lateral canthus level, the distance between the lateral margin of the frontal process and the most lateral margin of the orbicularis oculi muscle was 12.5&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;1.3&#x2009;mm. The thickness of the orbicularis oculi muscle at the midpoint of the frontal process, the lateral marginal of the frontal process, and 5&#x2009;mm lateral to the lateral marginal of the frontal process was 0.7&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;0.3&#x2009;mm, 1.1&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;0.3&#x2009;mm, and 1.2&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;0.3&#x2009;mm, respectively. The crow's feet of the two volunteers began to disappear from day 3 and completely disappeared on day 7 after the injection.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The novel injection technique based on the ultrasonographic anatomy resulted in improvements in the appearance of crow's feet.}, }
@article {pmid35714793, year = {2022}, author = {Buniyaadi, A and Prabhat, A and Bhardwaj, SK and Kumar, V}, title = {Night melatonin levels affect cognition in diurnal animals: Molecular insights from a corvid exposed to an illuminated night environment.}, journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)}, volume = {308}, number = {}, pages = {119618}, doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119618}, pmid = {35714793}, issn = {1873-6424}, mesh = {Animals ; Circadian Rhythm/physiology ; Cognition/physiology ; Hippocampus/metabolism ; Light ; *Melatonin/metabolism/pharmacology ; Photoperiod ; }, abstract = {This study investigated the role of nocturnal melatonin secretion in the cognitive performance of diurnal animals. An initial experiment measured the cognitive performance in Indian house crows treated for 11 days with 12 h light at 1.426 W/m[2] (∼150 lux) coupled with 12 h of 0.058 W/m[2] (∼6-lux) dim light at night (dLAN) or with absolute darkness (0 lux dark night, LD). dLAN treatment significantly decreased midnight melatonin levels and negatively impacted cognitive performance. Subsequently, the role of exogenous melatonin (50 μg; administered intraperitoneally half an hour before the night began) was assessed on the regulation of cognitive performance in two separate experimental cohorts of crows kept under dLAN; LD controls received vehicle. Exogenous melatonin restored its mid-night levels under dLAN at par with those under LD controls, and improved the cognitive performance, as measured in the innovative problem-solving, and spatial and pattern learning-memory efficiency tests in dLAN-treated crows. There were concurrent molecular changes in the cognition-associated brain areas, namely the hippocampus, nidopallium caudolaterale and midbrain. In particular, the expression levels of genes involved in neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity (bdnf, dcx, egr1, creb), and dopamine synthesis and signalling (th, drd1, drd2, darpp32, taar1) were restored to LD control levels in crows treated with illuminated nights and received melatonin. These results demonstrate that the maintenance of nocturnal melatonin levels is crucial for an optimal higher-order brain function in diurnal animals in the face of an environmental threat, such as light pollution.}, }
@article {pmid35713817, year = {2022}, author = {Zhang, Y and Zhang, Z and Zhao, L and Tao, Y and Li, Z}, title = {Azure-winged Magpies would rather avoid losses than strive for benefits based on reciprocal altruism.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {25}, number = {6}, pages = {1579-1588}, pmid = {35713817}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {31772470//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Altruism ; Game Theory ; Cooperative Behavior ; *Passeriformes ; Reward ; Biological Evolution ; }, abstract = {It is no doubt that the reciprocal altruism of humans is unparalleled in the animal world. However, how strong altruistic behavior in the non-human animal is still very controversial. Almost all previous researches allowed only one individual in the dyad for action or dyad to accomplish tasks and obtain rewards simultaneously. Here, we designed current study based on the prisoner's dilemma to investigate reciprocal altruism under interactions of Azure-winged Magpies (Cyanopica cyanus), which is direct reciprocity of allowing subjects obtain rewards, respectively. The results suggest that Azure-winged Magpies failed to show continuously altruistic behavior due to the empiricism that stemmed from interactions, that is, avoiding losses. Meanwhile, the resource exchange game paradigm, which is designed in our study, is worthwhile to study the evolution of cooperation in more species in the future.}, }
@article {pmid35707655, year = {2022}, author = {Anum, A}, title = {Does Socio-Economic Status Have Different Impact on Fluid and Crystallized Abilities? Comparing Scores on Raven's Progressive Matrices, Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children II Story Completion and Kilifi Naming Test Among Children in Ghana.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {880005}, pmid = {35707655}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Current literature shows an association between intelligence and socio-cultural or socio-economic factors. The available evidence supports a stronger effect of exogenous factors on measures of crystalized intelligence than on fluid intelligence. Despite this, the sources of variability in fluid and crystalized intelligence have not been explored adequately in intelligence research. The purpose of this study was to compare performance on tests that measure fluid and crystallized intelligence among children selected from public and private schools in Ghana. We tested the assumption that socio-economic status (SES) will have a stronger effect on tests that measure crystallized intelligence than on fluid intelligence. We selected 185 children between 6 and 12 years from private and public schools, and used inclusion in a private or public school as a proxy for SES. We administered the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM), a fluid intelligence test, the KABC II story completion subtest as a measure of inductive reasoning and crystallized intelligence and the Kilifi Naming Test, a verbal ability measure designed to minimize the effect of school on vocabulary. The results showed age-related improvement in scores on all three tests with effect sizes ranging from 0.42 to 0.52. We also found significant effect for type of school on all the tests with effect sizes ranging from 0.37 to 0.66. The results also showed an increasing disparity in performance on the tests favoring children selected from private schools. These suggest that fluid and crystalized intelligence are affected by socioeconomic factors. The results also showed that SES factors tend to affect crystallized ability more than it affects fluid ability. The results are discussed in the context of differences in socioeconomic resources available to children such as quality of education in low- and middle-income countries.}, }
@article {pmid35703981, year = {2022}, author = {McCullough, JM and Oliveros, CH and Benz, BW and Zenil-Ferguson, R and Cracraft, J and Moyle, RG and Andersen, MJ}, title = {Wallacean and Melanesian Islands Promote Higher Rates of Diversification within the Global Passerine Radiation Corvides.}, journal = {Systematic biology}, volume = {71}, number = {6}, pages = {1423-1439}, doi = {10.1093/sysbio/syac044}, pmid = {35703981}, issn = {1076-836X}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Islands ; Melanesia ; Phylogeny ; *Songbirds/genetics ; Water ; }, abstract = {The complex island archipelagoes of Wallacea and Melanesia have provided empirical data behind integral theories in evolutionary biology, including allopatric speciation and island biogeography. Yet, questions regarding the relative impact of the layered biogeographic barriers, such as deep-water trenches and isolated island systems, on faunal diversification remain underexplored. One such barrier is Wallace's Line, a significant biogeographic boundary that largely separates Australian and Asian biodiversity. To assess the relative roles of biogeographic barriers-specifically isolated island systems and Wallace's Line-we investigated the tempo and mode of diversification in a diverse avian radiation, Corvides (Crows and Jays, Birds-of-paradise, Vangas, and allies). We combined a genus-level data set of thousands of ultraconserved elements (UCEs) and a species-level, 12-gene Sanger sequence matrix to produce a well-resolved supermatrix tree that we leveraged to explore the group's historical biogeography and the effects of the biogeographic barriers on their macroevolutionary dynamics. The tree is well resolved and differs substantially from what has been used extensively for past comparative analyses within this group. We confirmed that Corvides, and its major constituent clades, arose in Australia and that a burst of dispersals west across Wallace's Line occurred after the uplift of Wallacea during the mid-Miocene. We found that dispersal across this biogeographic barrier was generally rare, though westward dispersals were two times more frequent than eastward dispersals. Wallacea's central position between Sundaland and Sahul no doubt acted as a bridge for island-hopping dispersal out of Australia, across Wallace's Line, to colonize the rest of Earth. In addition, we found that the complex island archipelagoes east of Wallace's Line harbor the highest rates of net diversification and are a substantial source of colonists to continental systems on both sides of this biogeographic barrier. Our results support emerging evidence that island systems, particularly the geologically complex archipelagoes of the Indo-pacific, are drivers of species diversification. [Historical biogeography; island biogeography; Melanesia; molecular phylogenetics; state-dependent diversification and extinction.].}, }
@article {pmid35698733, year = {2022}, author = {Iglesia, S and Kononov, T and Zahr, AS}, title = {A multi-functional anti-aging moisturizer maintains a diverse and balanced facial skin microbiome.}, journal = {Journal of applied microbiology}, volume = {133}, number = {3}, pages = {1791-1799}, doi = {10.1111/jam.15663}, pmid = {35698733}, issn = {1365-2672}, support = {//Revision Skincare/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aging ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; *Microbiota ; Middle Aged ; Skin ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {AIMS: To assess the effect of a 28-day skincare regimen in healthy female subjects on the facial skin microbiome composition and to determine whether the skincare regimen including a gentle cleansing lotion, a multi-functional anti-aging moisturizer formulated with prebiotics and postbiotics at skin neutral pH, and bland sunscreen pushed the microbiome to a healthier state and improved skin aging measured by self-assessment and clinical photography.<br><br>METHODS AND RESULTS: The study protocol was in accordance with the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) guidance and met all international standards. In all, 25 female subjects between 35 and 65&#x2009;years old with Fitzpatrick skin types I-VI, moderate crow's feet wrinkles and global face photodamage were enrolled. After 28&#x2009;days, the skincare regimen improved microbial facial diversity and shifted the microbiota composition when compared to baseline.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: After 28&#x2009;days, the skincare regimen treatment shifted the distribution of the facial skin microbiome, positively influencing the skin microbiome diversity and balance, to promote long-term skin health and protect from further skin aging.<br><br>These results suggest that incorporating prebiotics and postbiotics into a skincare regimen may have a positive impact on the facial skin microbiome in healthy women.}, }
@article {pmid35688056, year = {2022}, author = {Parajuli, N and Pradhan, B and Bapat, S}, title = {Effect of yoga on cognitive functions and anxiety among female school children with low academic performance: A randomized control trial.}, journal = {Complementary therapies in clinical practice}, volume = {48}, number = {}, pages = {101614}, doi = {10.1016/j.ctcp.2022.101614}, pmid = {35688056}, issn = {1873-6947}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Anxiety/psychology/therapy ; Anxiety Disorders ; Child ; Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; *Meditation/psychology ; *Yoga/psychology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: To achieve better academic performance, students should improve their cognitive faculties and overcome anxiety. Therefore, the present research was conducted to assess the effect of yoga on the cognitive functions of female adolescents with low academic performance.<br><br>METHODS: The present study is a randomized control trial (RCT). Eighty-nine female students in the age range of 12-14 years were randomly assigned into two groups [yoga (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;45); physical exercise (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;44)] at a school setting. Both groups were assessed before and after on Raven's standard progressive matrices (RSPM), Corsi Block Tapping Test (CBTT), Six Letter Cancellation Test (SLCT), Digit Letter Substitution Test (DLST), Stroop Color and Word Test (SCWT), and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children (STAIC).<br><br>RESULTS: Findings of the present study showed significant (p&#xa0;<&#xa0;.05) differences in scores of forward CBTT, SWCT, and SLCT in group&#xa0;&#xd7;&#xa0;time interaction. Both the groups showed significant (p&#xa0;<&#xa0;.05) improvement in SLCT, backward scores of CBTT, and STAIC-T. All outcomes measured were significantly (p&#xa0;<&#xa0;.05) improved in the yoga group except STAIC-S.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Yoga improves general intelligence, visuospatial working memory, and attention, as well as reduces the anxiety of students with low academic performance. Similarly, physical exercise was also found to be improving visuospatial working memory, sustained attention, and reduce trait anxiety. However, the finding of the present study indicated yoga to be more effective compared to physical exercise in regards to students' fluid intelligence and executive function. Improvement in general intelligence, visuospatial working memory, and attention is expected to positively influence students' academic performance.}, }
@article {pmid35686147, year = {2022}, author = {Lean, FZX and Vitores, AG and Reid, SM and Banyard, AC and Brown, IH and Núñez, A and Hansen, RDE}, title = {Gross pathology of high pathogenicity avian influenza virus H5N1 2021-2022 epizootic in naturally infected birds in the United Kingdom.}, journal = {One health (Amsterdam, Netherlands)}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {100392}, pmid = {35686147}, issn = {2352-7714}, abstract = {High pathogenicity avian influenza virus (HPAIV) clade 2.3.4.4b has re-emerged in the United Kingdom in 2021-2022 winter season, with over 90 cases of HPAIV detected among poultry and captive birds in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Globally, HPAIV H5N1 has also had a wide geographical dispersion, causing outbreaks in Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa, impacting on socioeconomic and wildlife conservation. It is important to raise awareness of the gross pathological features of HPAIV and subsequently aid disease investigation through definition of pathological indicators following natural infection. In this study, we report on the gross pathology of HPAI H5N1 in poultry species (chicken, turkey, pheasant, guineafowl, duck, goose), and captive or wild birds (mute swan, tufted duck, jackdaw, peahen, white-tailed eagle) that tested positive between October 2021 and February 2022. Pancreatic and splenic necrosis were the common pathological findings in both Galliformes and Anseriformes. In addition to the more severe lesions documented in Galliformes, we also noted increased detection of pathological changes in a broader range of Anseriformes particularly in domestic ducks, in contrast to those reported in previous seasons with other H5Nx HPAIV subtypes. A continual effort to characterise the pathological impact of the disease is necessary to update on the presentation of HPAIV for both domestic/captive and wild birds whilst guiding early presumptive diagnosis.}, }
@article {pmid35681822, year = {2022}, author = {Gallup, AC and Schild, AB and Ühlein, MA and Bugnyar, T and Massen, JJM}, title = {No Evidence for Contagious Yawning in Juvenile Ravens (Corvus corax): An Observational Study.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {12}, number = {11}, pages = {}, pmid = {35681822}, issn = {2076-2615}, support = {W 1262/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {The overt and reflexive matching of behaviors among conspecifics has been observed in a growing number of social vertebrates, including avian species. In general, behavioral contagion-such as the spread of yawning-may serve important functions in group synchronization and vigilance behavior. Here, we performed an exploratory study to investigate yawn contagion among 10 captive juvenile ravens (Corvus corax), across two groups. Using observational methods, we also examined the contagiousness of three other distinct behaviors: stretching, scratching, and shaking. A total of 44 20 min observations were made across both groups, including 28 in the morning and 16 in the afternoon. The time and occurrence of all the behaviors from each bird were coded, and the temporal pattern of each behavior across both groups was then analyzed to assess the degree of social contagion. Overall, we found no evidence for contagious yawning, stretching, scratching, or shaking. However, yawns were relatively infrequent per observation (0.052 ± 0.076 yawns/bird) and thus experimental methods should be used to support this finding.}, }
@article {pmid35676708, year = {2022}, author = {Li, K and Walczak-Kozłowska, T and Lipowski, M and Li, J and Krokosz, D and Su, Y and Yu, H and Fan, H}, title = {The effect of the Baduanjin exercise on COVID-19-related anxiety, psychological well-being and lower back pain of college students during the pandemic.}, journal = {BMC sports science, medicine &amp; rehabilitation}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {102}, pmid = {35676708}, issn = {2052-1847}, support = {BPN/GIN/2021/1/00010/U/00001//The Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange/ ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study aimed to examine the effect of Baduanjin exercise on COVID-19-related anxiety, psychological well-being, and the lower back pain of college students during the coronavirus pandemic in China.<br><br>SETTING: The study was carried out in a temporary experimental center of four universities in Wenzhou city in Zhejiang Province, China.<br><br>POPULATION: 387 participants who were college students were allocated to two groups: the Baduanjin exercise group(BEG, n&#x2009;=&#x2009;195); and the Control group(CG,n&#x2009;=&#x2009;192).<br><br>METHODS: In this randomized controlled trial,387 participants who were college students were randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to 12-week Baduanjin exercise group (BEG, n&#x2009;=&#x2009;195)and 12-week Control group(CG,n&#x2009;=&#x2009;192).CAS(Coronavirus Anxiety Scale), PWBS(Psychological Well-being Scale),NMQ(Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire), was used to assess COVID-19-related anxiety, psychological well-being, and lower back pain at second times (before and after the intervention). The paired t-test and an independent t-test (with a 95% confidence interval) was used to compare the outcome variables of the two groups.<br><br>RESULTS: Within-group comparison, there was no significant difference in the control group before and after the intervention. In contrast, the Baduanjin group had a significant improvement before and after the intervention. Between-group comparison, the Baduanjin group had a significant difference from the control group. The intervention effect on the Baduanjin exercise group was remarkably better than that of the control group (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). Participants in the Baduanjin group significantly improved the corvid-19-related anxiety score decreased from (5.22&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;0.45 to 5.07&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;0.27, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). The total psychological well-being score increased from (70.11&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;8.65 to 84.12&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;7.38,p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05) and the prevalence of low back pain decreased from (22.45&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;1.67 to 18.35&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;1.05, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05) among college students.<br><br>CONCLUSION: During the pandemic, the Baduanjin exercise contributes to the reduction of the perceived anxiety related to COVID-19, decreases the prevalence of the lower back pain, and improves the psychological well-being of college students.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04432038. Registered on June 16, 2020.}, }
@article {pmid35673098, year = {2022}, author = {Balbino, M and Jandre, C and de Miranda, D and Nobre, C}, title = {Predictions of Academic Performance of Children and Adolescents with ADHD Using the SHAP Approach.}, journal = {Studies in health technology and informatics}, volume = {290}, number = {}, pages = {655-659}, doi = {10.3233/SHTI220159}, pmid = {35673098}, issn = {1879-8365}, mesh = {*Academic Performance ; Adolescent ; *Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/diagnosis ; Child ; Humans ; Mathematics ; Reading ; Schools ; Students ; Writing ; }, abstract = {Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neuro-developmental disorder characterized by inattention and/or impulsivity-hyperactivity symptoms. Through Machine Learning methods and the SHAP approach, this work aims to discover which features have the most significant impact on the students' performance with ADHD in arithmetic, writing and reading. The SHAP allowed us to deepen the model's understanding and identify the most relevant features for academic performance. The experiments indicated that the Raven_Z IQ test score is the factor with the most significant impact on academic performance in all disciplines. Then, the mother's schooling, being from a private school, and the student's social class were the most frequently highlighted features. In all disciplines, the student having ADHD emerged as an important feature with a negative impact but less relevance than the previous features.}, }
@article {pmid35662179, year = {2023}, author = {Kiyohara, T and Kumai, Y and Yubi, T and Ishikawa, E and Wakisaka, Y and Ago, T and Kitazono, T}, title = {Association between Early Cognitive Impairment and Short-Term Functional Outcome in Acute Ischemic Stroke.}, journal = {Cerebrovascular diseases (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {52}, number = {1}, pages = {61-67}, doi = {10.1159/000524839}, pmid = {35662179}, issn = {1421-9786}, mesh = {Humans ; *Ischemic Stroke/complications ; *Brain Ischemia/diagnosis/therapy/complications ; Prospective Studies ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnosis/etiology ; *Stroke/diagnosis/therapy/complications ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Little is known about the association between poststroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) and functional outcome in the acute care phase of ischemic stroke and the influence of the clinical condition of acute stroke on this association. We examined this issue, taking into account stroke-related factors, in a hospital-based prospective study of patients with acute ischemic stroke. The same analysis was also performed after subsequent rehabilitation to investigate whether the association observed in the acute care phase persisted after that. For comparison, the same analysis was performed for pre-stroke dementia (PreSD).<br><br>METHODS: We included in the study a total of 923 patients with acute ischemic stroke who were admitted to a hospital from 2012 to 2020 in Japan. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination and Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices test at an average of 6.3 days after stroke onset. The subjects were divided into three groups with normal cognition, PSCI, and PreSD. Study outcome was a poor functional outcome, defined as a modified Rankin Scale score of &#x2265;3 at the end of acute care (median 21 days after admission). Among total subjects, 460 were also assessed for poor functional outcome after rehabilitation (median 77 days after admission). A logistic regression model was applied in this study.<br><br>RESULTS: Patients with PSCI and PreSD had higher median National Institute of Health Stroke Scale scores than those with normal cognition (median [IQR]: 3 [2-6], 4 [2-12], and 2 [1-4], respectively). The age- and sex-adjusted cumulative incidence of poor functional outcome was significantly higher in patients with PSCI and PreSD than in those with normal cognition in the acute care and rehabilitation phases. In the acute care phase, these associations remained significant after adjustment for stroke-related factors and other confounders (multivariable-adjusted odds ratio [95% CI] for PSCI vs. normal cognition: 3.28 [2.07-5.20]; for PreSD: 2.39 [1.40-4.08]). Similar results were observed in the rehabilitation phase (for PSCI: 2.48 [1.31-4.70]; for PreSD: 3.92 [1.94-7.92]).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that PSCI, as well as PreSD, is possibly associated with the development of poor functional outcome in the acute care phase of ischemic stroke, and this association continues thereafter.}, }
@article {pmid35658791, year = {2022}, author = {Poulton, A and Rutherford, K and Boothe, S and Brygel, M and Crole, A and Dali, G and Bruns, LR and Sinnott, RO and Hester, R}, title = {Evaluating untimed and timed abridged versions of Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Journal of clinical and experimental neuropsychology}, volume = {44}, number = {1}, pages = {73-84}, doi = {10.1080/13803395.2022.2080185}, pmid = {35658791}, issn = {1744-411X}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence/physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; Wechsler Scales ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM) are frequently utilized in clinical and experimental settings to index intellectual capacity. As the APM is a relatively long assessment, abridged versions of the test have been proposed. The psychometric properties of an untimed 12-item APM have received some consideration in the literature, but validity explorations have been limited. Moreover, both reliability and validity of a timed 12-item APM have not previously been examined.<br><br>METHOD: We considered the psychometric properties of untimed (Study 1; N =&#xa0;608; Mage&#xa0;=&#xa0;27.89, SD&#xa0;=&#xa0;11.68) and timed (Study 2; N =&#xa0;479; Mage&#xa0;=&#xa0;20.93, SD&#xa0;=&#xa0;3.12) versions of a brief online 12-item form of the APM.<br><br>RESULTS: Confirmatory factor analyses established both versions of the tests are unidimensional. Item response theory analyses revealed that, in each case, the 12 items are characterized by distinct differences in difficulty, discrimination, and guessing. Differential item functioning showed few male/female or native English/non-native English performance differences. Test-retest reliability was .65 (Study 1) to .69 (Study 2). Both tests had medium-to-large correlations with the Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence (2nd ed.) Perceptual Reasoning Index (r =&#xa0;.50, Study 1; r =&#xa0;.56, Study 2) and Full-Scale IQ (r =&#xa0;.34, Study 1; r =&#xa0;.41, Study 2).<br><br>CONCLUSION: In sum, results suggest both untimed and timed online versions of the brief APM are psychometrically sound. As test duration was found to be highly variable for the untimed version, the timed form might be a more suitable choice when it is likely to form part of a longer battery of tests. Nonetheless, classical test and item response theory analyses, plus validity considerations, suggest the untimed version might be the superior abridged form.}, }
@article {pmid35650120, year = {2022}, author = {Sasaki, Y and Nozawa-Takeda, T and Yonemitsu, K and Asai, T and Asakura, H and Nagai, H}, title = {Characterization of Campylobacter jejuni in large-billed crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) in Tochigi prefecture, Japan.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {84}, number = {7}, pages = {1029-1033}, pmid = {35650120}, issn = {1347-7439}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Campylobacter Infections/epidemiology/veterinary ; *Campylobacter jejuni/genetics ; Cattle ; *Cattle Diseases ; Chickens ; *Crows ; Humans ; Japan/epidemiology ; Multilocus Sequence Typing/veterinary ; }, abstract = {As free-living crows are a potential source of Campylobacter infections in broilers and cattle, we characterized Campylobacter spp. isolated from crows using multilocus sequence typing and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. We obtained 82 samples from 27 birds captured at seven different times using a trap set in Tochigi prefecture, Japan. Campylobacter jejuni was isolated from 55 (67.1%) of the 82 samples and classified into 29 sequence types, of which 21 were novel. Tetracycline and streptomycin resistance rates were 18.2% and 3.6%, respectively. These results show that most types of C. jejuni infecting crows differ from those isolated from humans, broilers, and cattle. Thus, the importance of free-living crows as reservoirs of Campylobacter infections in broilers and cattle may be limited.}, }
@article {pmid35647890, year = {2022}, author = {Cheikh, F and Benhassine, NE and Sbaa, S}, title = {Fetal phonocardiogram signals denoising using improved complete ensemble (EMD) with adaptive noise and optimal thresholding of wavelet coefficients.}, journal = {Biomedizinische Technik. Biomedical engineering}, volume = {67}, number = {4}, pages = {237-247}, doi = {10.1515/bmt-2022-0006}, pmid = {35647890}, issn = {1862-278X}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Heart ; *Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Signal-To-Noise Ratio ; *Wavelet Analysis ; }, abstract = {Although fetal phonocardiogram (fPCG) signals have become a good indicator for discovered heart disease, they may be contaminated by various noises that reduce the signals quality and the final diagnosis decision. Moreover, the noise may cause the risk of the data to misunderstand the heart signal and to misinterpret it. The main objective of this paper is to effectively remove noise from the fPCG signal to make it clinically feasible. So, we proposed a novel noise reduction method based on Improved Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise (ICEEMDAN), wavelet threshold and Crow Search Algorithm (CSA). This noise reduction method, named ICEEMDAN-DWT-CSA, has three major advantages. They were, (i) A better suppress of mode mixing and a minimized number of IMFs, (ii) A choice of wavelet corresponding to the study signal proven by the literature and (iii) Selection of the optimal threshold value. Firstly, the noisy fPCG signal is decomposed into Intrinsic Mode Functions (IMFs) by the (ICEEMDAN). Each noisy IMFs were decomposed by the Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT). Then, the optimal threshold value using the (CSA) technique is selected and the thresholding function is carried out in the detail's coefficients. Secondly, each denoised (IMFs) is reconstructed by applying the Inverse Discrete Wavelet Transform (IDWT). Finally, all these denoised (IMFs) are combined to get the denoised fPCG signal. The performance of the proposed method has been evaluated by Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR), Mean Square Error (MSE) and the Correlation Coefficient (COR). The experiment gave a better result than some standard methods.}, }
@article {pmid35645536, year = {2022}, author = {Agarwalla, S and Chandra, B and Santra, A and Kundu, GK}, title = {Impact of Intelligence Quotient (IQ) on Dental Caries amongst Socially Handicapped Orphan Children and Children Living with Their Parents.}, journal = {International journal of clinical pediatric dentistry}, volume = {15}, number = {Suppl 2}, pages = {S230-S233}, pmid = {35645536}, issn = {0974-7052}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the IQ and dental caries status of socially deprived orphan children and compare with children living with their parents.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: For comparison, 100 children in age-group 7-11 years, were divided in two groups: 50 orphanage children (orphanage-group) and 50 school-going children living with their families were included (home group). Raven's colored progressive matrices test was used to record the intelligence quotient (IQ) and dental caries status of children was recorded using dmft Index.<br><br>RESULTS: There was statistically significant difference between children with different levels of IQ for both the groups. However, the majority of children who belong to below average IQ score had higher dental caries.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Children with better IQ had less dental caries. There was no difference in IQ and DMFT/dmft score between both the genders. The overall DMFT/dmft was high in children living with their parents when compared to orphanage children.<br><br>HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Agarwalla S. The Impact of Intelligence Quotient (IQ) on Dental Caries amongst Socially Handicapped Orphan Children and Children Living with Their Parents. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(S-2):S230-S233.}, }
@article {pmid35633699, year = {2022}, author = {Chu, KK and Zhou, ZJ and Wang, Q and Ye, SB and Guo, L and Qiu, Y and Zhang, YZ and Ge, XY}, title = {Characterization of Deltacoronavirus in Black-Headed Gulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) in South China Indicating Frequent Interspecies Transmission of the Virus in Birds.}, journal = {Frontiers in microbiology}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {895741}, pmid = {35633699}, issn = {1664-302X}, abstract = {Deltacoronavirus (DCoV) is a genus of coronavirus (CoV) commonly found in avian and swine, but some DCoVs are capable of infecting humans, which causes the concern about interspecies transmission of DCoVs. Thus, monitoring the existence of DCoVs in animals near communities is of great importance for epidemic prevention. Black-headed gulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) are common migratory birds inhabiting in most urban and rural wetlands of Yunnan Province, China, which is a typical habitat for black-headed gulls to overwinter. Whether Yunnan black-headed gulls carry CoV has never been determined. In this study, we identified three strains of DCoVs in fecal samples of Yunnan black-headed gulls by reverse-transcriptional PCR and sequenced their whole genomes. Genomic analysis revealed that these three strains shared genomic identity of more than 99%, thus named DCoV HNU4-1, HNU4-2, and HNU4-3; their NSP12 showed high similarity of amino acid sequence to the homologs of falcon coronavirus UAE-HKU27 (HKU27), houbara coronavirus UAE-HKU28 (HKU28), and pigeon coronavirus UAE-HKU29 (HKU29). Since both HKU28 and HKU29 were found in Dubai, there might be cross-border transmission of these avian DCoVs through specific routes. Further coevolutionary analysis supported this speculation that HNU4 (or its ancestors) in black-headed gulls originated from HKU28 (or its homologous strain) in houbara, which was interspecies transmission between two different avian orders. In addition, interspecies transmission of DCoV, from houbara to falcon, pigeon and white-eye, from sparrow to common-magpie, and quail and mammal including porcine and Asian leopard cat, from munia to magpie-robin, was predicted. This is the first report of black-headed gull DCoV in Asia which was highly homolog to other avian DCoVs, and the very "active" host-switching events in DCoV were predicted, which provides important reference for the study of spread and transmission of DCoVs.}, }
@article {pmid35625072, year = {2022}, author = {Aaziz, R and Laroucau, K and Gobbo, F and Salvatore, D and Schnee, C and Terregino, C and Lupini, C and Di Francesco, A}, title = {Occurrence of Chlamydiae in Corvids in Northeast Italy.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {12}, number = {10}, pages = {}, pmid = {35625072}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {Chlamydiaceae occurrence has been largely evaluated in wildlife, showing that wild birds are efficient reservoirs for avian chlamydiosis. In this study, DNA extracted from cloacal swabs of 108 corvids from Northeast Italy was screened for Chlamydiaceae by 23S real-time (rt)PCR. The positive samples were characterised by specific rtPCRs for Chlamydia psittaci, Chlamydia abortus, Chlamydia gallinacea, Chlamydia avium, Chlamydia pecorum and Chlamydia suis. Cloacal shedding of Chlamydiaceae was detected in 12 out of 108 (11.1%, 5.9%-18.6% 95% CI) corvids sampled. Molecular characterisation at the species level was possible in 8/12 samples, showing C. psittaci positivity in only one sample from a hooded crow and C. abortus positivity in seven samples, two from Eurasian magpies and five from hooded crows. Genotyping of the C. psittaci-positive sample was undertaken via PCR/high-resolution melting, clustering it in group III_pigeon, corresponding to the B genotype based on former ompA analysis. For C. abortus genotyping, multilocus sequence typing was successfully performed on the two samples with high DNA load from Eurasian magpies, highlighting 100% identity with the recently reported Polish avian C. abortus genotype 1V strain 15-58d44. To confirm the intermediate characteristics between C. psittaci and C. abortus, both samples, as well as two samples from hooded crows, showed the chlamydial plasmid inherent in most C. psittaci and avian C. abortus, but not in ruminant C. abortus strains. The plasmid sequences were highly similar (≥99%) to those of the Polish avian C. abortus genotype 1V strain 15-58d44. To our knowledge, this is the first report of avian C. abortus strains in Italy, specifically genotype 1V, confirming that they are actively circulating in corvids in the Italian region tested.}, }
@article {pmid35623693, year = {2022}, author = {Vermeylen, MK and Knowles, TG and Barron, HW}, title = {The influence of Lake Okeechobee discharges on Karenia brevis blooms and the effects on wildlife along the central west coast of Florida.}, journal = {Harmful algae}, volume = {115}, number = {}, pages = {102237}, doi = {10.1016/j.hal.2022.102237}, pmid = {35623693}, issn = {1878-1470}, mesh = {Animals ; *Animals, Wild ; *Dinoflagellida ; Florida/epidemiology ; Harmful Algal Bloom ; Humans ; Lakes ; }, abstract = {Blooms of the dinoflagellate Karenia brevis (K. brevis) are a common occurrence in the Gulf of Mexico, especially along Florida's coast. The blooms produce brevetoxins, potent neurotoxins that are associated with mortalities of marine wildlife. In recent years, K. brevis blooms seem to have become more frequent and intense. The cause of these suspected increases is highly debated, with one suggested explanation being anthropogenic eutrophication. Patient records from the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) on Sanibel Island, Florida, USA, and K. brevis cell count samples from the west coast of Florida were used to assess trends in red tides and affected wildlife. Flow data from the Okeechobee waterway was used to investigate if discharges from Lake Okeechobee and the Caloosahatchee Estuary, where eutrophication is present, influence red tides along Florida's central west coast. Overall, K. brevis blooms show trends of increasing intensity and duration along Florida's coast between 1954 and 2020 (latest data available). This means the amount of wildlife affected will likely increase in the future, as a linear relationship was found between the number of admissions to CROW and K. brevis densities. Furthermore, water discharges from the Okeechobee waterway (including Lake Okeechobee and the Caloosahatchee Estuary) into the Gulf of Mexico were significantly correlated with K. brevis densities, which suggests that anthropogenic pollution might play a role in the observed increases. Clear correlations were found between K. brevis densities and brevetoxicosis patient numbers admitted, and this was strongest with overall admissions lagging 23 days behind cell counts. This further confirms brevetoxins as the likely cause of their morbidity and supports previous research on brevetoxin retention in the environment. Different species groups had significant correlations with K. brevis cell counts, double-crested cormorants showing the strongest link, and there were significant differences between these groups in lag times. The differences are likely due to their distinct foraging behaviours or susceptibilities to brevetoxins. These findings can help predict future trends in red tides and can guide further research on the effects of discharges on K. brevis blooms.}, }
@article {pmid35622575, year = {2022}, author = {Rho, NK and Han, KH and Kim, HS}, title = {An Update on the Cosmetic Use of Botulinum Toxin: The Pattern of Practice among Korean Dermatologists.}, journal = {Toxins}, volume = {14}, number = {5}, pages = {}, pmid = {35622575}, issn = {2072-6651}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Asian People ; *Botulinum Toxins/therapeutic use ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Dermatologists ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Republic of Korea ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin injection have made it a popular aesthetic procedure worldwide. A cross-sectional survey was performed in order to determine the pattern of type A botulinum toxin injections in cosmetic practice, for which an 18-item questionnaire was distributed to dermatologists. A total of 469 Korean board-certified dermatologists participated in the survey, with the following results: the main candidates for type A botulinum toxin injection were individuals in their 40-50 years (46.1%), followed by those in their 20-30 years (33.4%), and people over 60 years of age (20.5%). Overall, the upper face (the glabella, forehead, and crow's line, in decreasing order) was the most favored area of injection (51%). In contrast, body contouring (i.e., shoulder, calf) and treatment for benign masseter hypertrophy were significantly more popular in the 20-30 years age group than their older counterparts. For wrinkle effacement, the most preferred dilution was 100 units/2.5 mL with isotonic sodium chloride injection (51.2%), and the most often used interval was six months (43.6%). About half (46.3%) of the dermatologists reported the experience of clinical cases which were suspicious of botulinum toxin resistance. Despite this, regarding the choice of the product, type A botulinum toxin products with greater cost-effectiveness were favored over products with a lower risk of antibody formation. Other than its cosmetic usage, botulinum toxin is applied for a variety of skin conditions. Further studies are suggested in order to identify the practice pattern of type A botulinum toxin for therapeutic uses in dermatology, such as hyperhidrosis and rosacea.}, }
@article {pmid35620015, year = {2022}, author = {Ashton, BJ and Thornton, A and Cauchoix, M and Ridley, AR}, title = {Long-term repeatability of cognitive performance.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {9}, number = {5}, pages = {220069}, pmid = {35620015}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {Measures of cognitive performance, derived from psychometric tasks, have yielded important insights into the factors governing cognitive variation. However, concerns remain over the robustness of these measures, which may be susceptible to non-cognitive factors such as motivation and persistence. Efforts to quantify short-term repeatability of cognitive performance have gone some way to address this, but crucially the long-term repeatability of cognitive performance has been largely overlooked. Quantifying the long-term repeatability of cognitive performance provides the opportunity to determine the stability of cognitive phenotypes and the potential for selection to act on them. To this end, we quantified long-term repeatability of cognitive performance in wild Australian magpies over a three-year period. Cognitive performance was repeatable in two out of four cognitive tasks-associative learning and reversal-learning performance was repeatable, but spatial memory and inhibitory control performance, although trending toward significance, was not. Measures of general cognitive performance, obtained from principal components analyses carried out on each cognitive test battery, were highly repeatable. Together, these findings provide evidence that at least some cognitive phenotypes are stable, which in turn has important implications for our understanding of cognitive evolution.}, }
@article {pmid35609562, year = {2022}, author = {Kilian, L and Shahid, F and Zhao, JS and Nayeri, CN}, title = {Bioinspired morphing wings: mechanical design and wind tunnel experiments.}, journal = {Bioinspiration &amp; biomimetics}, volume = {17}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1088/1748-3190/ac72e1}, pmid = {35609562}, issn = {1748-3190}, mesh = {*Aircraft ; Animals ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Birds ; Feathers ; *Flight, Animal ; *Models, Biological ; Wings, Animal/anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {Bioinspired morphing wings are part of a novel research direction offering greatly increased adaptability for use in unmanned aerial vehicles. Recent models published in the literature often rely on simplifications of the bird wing apparatus and fail to preserve many of the macroscopic morphological features. Therefore, a more holistic design approach could uncover further benefits of truly bioinspired bird wing models. With this issue in mind, a prototype inspired by crow wings (Corvusgenus) is developed, which is capable of planform wing morphing. The prototype imitates the feather structure of real birds and replicates the folding motion with a carbon fiber reinforced polymer skeleton with one controllable degree of freedom. The mechanism supplies a smooth airfoil lifting surface through a continuous morphing motion between a fully extended and a folded state. When extended, it has an elliptic planform and emarginated slots between primary remiges. In the folded state, the wingspan is reduced by 50% with a 40% reduction in surface area and the aspect ratio decreases from 2.9 to 1.2. Experimental data from a subsonic wind tunnel investigation is presented for flow velocities ranging from 5 to 20 m s[-1], corresponding to Reynolds numbers between 0.7 × 10[5]-2.8 × 10[5]. The wing is analyzed in the three static states (folded, intermediate, and extended) through aerodynamic coefficients and flow visualizations along the surface. The bioinspired design enables the wing to capture several phenomena found on real bird wings. Through its morphing capabilities and intrinsic softness, the wing can sustain large angles of attack with greatly delayed stall and maintain optimal performance at different velocities.}, }
@article {pmid35609544, year = {2022}, author = {Farine, DR}, title = {Collective behaviour: Jackdaws vote to leave with their voice.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {32}, number = {10}, pages = {R467-R469}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2022.03.070}, pmid = {35609544}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Mass Gatherings ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Making a decision as a group requires not only choosing where to go but also when to go. A new study provides experimental evidence that, in jackdaws, vocalisations facilitate synchronous early morning departures from communal roosts.}, }
@article {pmid35609539, year = {2022}, author = {Dibnah, AJ and Herbert-Read, JE and Boogert, NJ and McIvor, GE and Jolles, JW and Thornton, A}, title = {Vocally mediated consensus decisions govern mass departures from jackdaw roosts.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {32}, number = {10}, pages = {R455-R456}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2022.04.032}, pmid = {35609539}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Consensus ; *Crows ; Ecosystem ; Humans ; }, abstract = {In the early morning, large groups of up to hundreds or even thousands of roosting birds, sometimes comprising the entire roost population, often take off together in sudden mass departures. These departures commonly occur in low-light conditions and structurally complex habitats where access to visual cues is likely to be restricted. Roosting birds are often highly vocal, leading us to hypothesise that vocalisations, which can propagate over large distances, could provide a means of enabling individuals to agree on when to depart - that is to establish a consensus[1] - and thus coordinate the timing of mass movements. Investigations of the role of acoustic signals in coordinating collective decisions have been limited to honeybees[2] and relatively small vertebrate groups (<50 individuals)[3-5] and have rarely included experimental validation[2,3]. Here, by combining field recordings with a large-scale experimental manipulation, we show that jackdaws (Corvus monedula) use vocalisations to coordinate mass departures from winter roosts. This provides empirical evidence for vocally-mediated consensus decision-making in large vertebrate groups.}, }
@article {pmid35601199, year = {2022}, author = {Moyer, RA and Beck, CJ and Van Atter, N and McLane, A}, title = {Advocacy services for survivors of intimate partner violence: Pivots and lessons learned during the COVID-19 quarantine in Tacoma, Washington.}, journal = {Family court review}, volume = {60}, number = {2}, pages = {288-302}, pmid = {35601199}, issn = {1531-2445}, abstract = {The Crystal Judson Family Justice Center (CJFJC), like many advocacy programs for survivors of intimate partner violence, transformed its structure and operating procedures amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The first confirmed case of COVID-19 in the United States was in Washington State, where CJFJC is located, and Governor Jay Inslee acted quickly with a strict stay-at-home order. This paper describes the pre-pandemic, in-person service model used at CJFJC and then the transition to a fully online service model utilizing phone, email and online procedures and platforms. The rapid transition posed many opportunities to learn how to provide services during public pandemics, and how to provide services virtually. We conclude with detailed lessons learned from the experiences of filing domestic violence protection orders online, Zoom court hearings, innovation surrounding community partnerships, and information technology development.}, }
@article {pmid35590208, year = {2022}, author = {Gill, J}, title = {Finding healing where it hurts.}, journal = {Med (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {3}, number = {2}, pages = {80-82}, doi = {10.1016/j.medj.2022.01.003}, pmid = {35590208}, issn = {2666-6340}, mesh = {*Awards and Prizes ; Black People ; Humans ; Students ; }, abstract = {In 2021, Cell Press together with Cell Signaling Technology held the second installment of the Rising Black Scientist Award (RBSA) Essay Contest meant to support talented and motivated young Black scientists on their journey. Charleese Williams and Elle Lett won the 2021 RBSA undergraduate and post-graduate scholars, respectively (https://www.cell.com/cell/issue?pii=S0092-8674(21)X0003-7). In recognition of the excellence of this year's submissions, we at Med are honored to also highlight the unique story of Jay Gill, which strongly resonates with the journal's mission to improve global health.}, }
@article {pmid35587723, year = {2023}, author = {Abe, Y and Seino, S and Kurihara, H and Kage, M and Tokudome, Y}, title = {2-kDa hyaluronan ameliorates human facial wrinkles through increased dermal collagen density related to promotion of collagen remodeling.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {320-327}, pmid = {35587723}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Humans ; *Skin Aging ; Hyaluronic Acid/pharmacology ; Matrix Metalloproteinase 1 ; Skin ; Collagen/pharmacology ; Emollients/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND/AIMS: Hyaluronan (HA) oligosaccharides are involved in several biological processes, primarily collagen remodeling and wound healing. Collagen remodeling is retarded in aging skin and causes wrinkles. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 2-kDa HA oligosaccharides (HA2k) on wrinkles by permeation through the stratum corneum and promotion of collagen remodeling.<br><br>METHODS: A 3D skin model and excised human skin were used to evaluate the permeation of fluorescein-labeled HA2k. The effect of HA2k on collagen metabolism was evaluated by measuring the protein level of type 1 pro-collagen (COL1A1) and matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) in the 3D skin model. 0.1% HA2k solution and vehicle control was applied to the human forearm for 8&#x2009;weeks to evaluate dermal collagen density. To evaluate the effect of HA2k on depth of facial wrinkles, a randomized controlled trial was conducted with 0.1% HA2k lotion and vehicle lotion for 8&#x2009;weeks.<br><br>RESULTS: HA2k was confirmed to permeate through the stratum corneum by fluorescent microscopy. Both COL1A1 and MMP-1 were upregulated by HA2k application in a 3D skin model culture. The collagen density was higher for the HA2k-treated forearm than for the vehicle control-treated forearm after 4&#x2009;weeks. The maximum wrinkle depths in the nasolabial fold and crow's feet area were significantly shallower in the HA2k lotion group than in the control group.<br><br>CONCLUSION: HA2k permeated the stratum corneum, activated collagen synthesis and degradation simultaneously, and ameliorated wrinkles.}, }
@article {pmid35578705, year = {2022}, author = {Borukhson, D and Lorenz-Spreen, P and Ragni, M}, title = {When Does an Individual Accept Misinformation? An Extended Investigation Through Cognitive Modeling.}, journal = {Computational brain &amp; behavior}, volume = {5}, number = {2}, pages = {244-260}, pmid = {35578705}, issn = {2522-087X}, abstract = {A new phenomenon is the spread and acceptance of misinformation and disinformation on an individual user level, facilitated by social media such as Twitter. So far, state-of-the-art socio-psychological theories and cognitive models focus on explaining how the accuracy of fake news is judged on average, with little consideration of the individual. In this paper, a breadth of core models are comparatively assessed on their predictive accuracy for the individual decision maker, i.e., how well can models predict an individual's decision before the decision is made. To conduct this analysis, it requires the raw responses of each individual and the implementation and adaption of theories to predict the individual's response. Building on methods formerly applied on smaller and more limited datasets, we used three previously collected large datasets with a total of 3794 participants and searched for, analyzed and refined existing classical and heuristic modeling approaches. The results suggest that classical reasoning, sentiment analysis models and heuristic approaches can best predict the "Accept" or "Reject" response of a person, headed by a model put together from research by Jay Van Bavel, while other models such as an implementation of "motivated reasoning" performed worse. Further, hybrid models that combine pairs of individual models achieve a significant increase in performance, pointing to an adaptive toolbox.}, }
@article {pmid35569183, year = {2022}, author = {Aydin, F and Saticioglu, IB and Ay, H and Kayman, T and Karakaya, E and Abay, S}, title = {Description of the two novel species of the genus Helicobacter: Helicobacter anatolicus sp. nov., and Helicobacter kayseriensis sp. nov., isolated from feces of urban wild birds.}, journal = {Systematic and applied microbiology}, volume = {45}, number = {4}, pages = {126326}, doi = {10.1016/j.syapm.2022.126326}, pmid = {35569183}, issn = {1618-0984}, mesh = {Animals ; Bacterial Typing Techniques ; Birds ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics ; Fatty Acids/analysis ; Feces ; *Helicobacter ; Nucleic Acid Hybridization ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Urease/genetics ; }, abstract = {A total of 26 Gram-negative, motile, gently curved, and rod-shaped isolates were recovered, during a study to determine the faeco-prevalence of Helicobacter spp. in urban wild birds. Pairwise comparisons of the 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that these isolates belonged to the genus Helicobacter and phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that the isolates were separated into two divergent groups. The first group consisted of 20 urease-positive isolates sharing the highest 16S rRNA gene sequence identity levels of 98.5-98.6% to H. mustelae ATCC 43772[T], while the second group contained six urease-negative isolates with the sequence identity level of 98.5% to the type strain of H. pametensis ATCC 51478[T]. Five isolates were chosen and subjected to comparative whole-genome analysis. The phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA, gyrA and atpA gene sequences showed that Helicobacter isolates formed two separate phylogenetic clades, differentiating the isolates from the other Helicobacter species. Digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) and average nucleotide identity (ANI) analyses between strains faydin-H8[T], faydin-H23[T] and their close neighbors H. anseris MIT 04-9362[T] and H. pametensis ATCC 51478[T], respectively, confirmed that both strains represent novel species in the genus Helicobacter. The DNA G+C contents of the strains faydin-H8[T] and faydin-H23[T] are 32.0% and 37.6%, respectively. The results obtained for the characterization of the wild bird isolates indicate that they represent two novel species, for which the names Helicobacter anatolicus sp. nov., and Helicobacter kayseriensis sp. nov., are proposed, with faydin-H8[T](=LMG 32237[T] = DSM 112312[T]) and faydin-H23[T](=LMG 32236[T] = CECT 30508[T]) as respective type strains.}, }
@article {pmid35565633, year = {2022}, author = {Kövér, L and Paládi, P and Benmazouz, I and Šorgo, A and Špur, N and Juhász, L and Czine, P and Balogh, P and Lengyel, S}, title = {Is the Hitchcock Story Really True? Public Opinion on Hooded Crows in Cities as Input to Management.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {12}, number = {9}, pages = {}, pmid = {35565633}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {In recent years, the Hooded crow (Corvus cornix) has become one of the most successful wild bird species in urban environments across Europe. Hooded crows can cause several problems in cities, including trash scattering, noise disturbance, and aggressive behavior toward humans or pets, and they can be potential vectors of pathogens. To find effective solutions, the public has to be involved in the decision-making process in urban planning management, managed by the city administration. In this study, we surveyed the attitude of people in Hungary towards crows and crow management by collecting information using an online questionnaire containing 65 questions published in 14 Facebook groups. We found that many people were familiar with corvid species and had personal experience with them. In most cases, these experiences were not negative, so the crows were not or only rarely perceived to cause problems to people, such as aggressive behavior, damage to cars or stealing something. Most respondents recognized that the presence of large numbers of hooded crows is a problem to be solved and acknowledged that they do not know how to resolve it. The majority of people expressed their interest in raising public awareness of crows but not in their management actions, which they believe should be implemented by experts. Most respondents preferred passive, harmless methods. More direct methods such as egg/chick removal from the nest, control by trapping, poisoned baits or firearms, or oral contraceptives were the least acceptable. These results express the difficulty in identifying a control method for managing hooded crow populations that is both acceptable to most people and effective at the same time. This study demonstrates the importance of involving public opinion in wildlife management and providing more information to citizens to reduce human-crow conflicts.}, }
@article {pmid35561680, year = {2022}, author = {Wang, ZY and Pergande, MR and Ragsdale, CW and Cologna, SM}, title = {Steroid hormones of the octopus self-destruct system.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {32}, number = {11}, pages = {2572-2579.e4}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2022.04.043}, pmid = {35561680}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain/physiology ; Female ; Hormones/metabolism ; *Octopodiformes/physiology ; Reproduction/physiology ; Steroids/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Among all invertebrates, soft-bodied cephalopods have the largest central nervous systems and the greatest brain-to-body mass ratios, yet unlike other big-brained animals, cephalopods are unusually short lived.[1-5] Primates and corvids survive for many decades, but shallow-water octopuses, such as the California two-spot octopus (Octopus bimaculoides), typically live for only 1 year.[6][,][7] Lifespan and reproduction are controlled by the principal neuroendocrine center of the octopus: the optic glands, which are functional analogs to the vertebrate pituitary gland.[8-10] After mating, females steadfastly brood their eggs, begin fasting, and undergo rapid physiological decline, featuring repeated self-injury and leading to death.[11] Removal of the optic glands completely reverses this life history trajectory,[10] but the signaling factors underlying this major life transition are unknown. Here, we characterize the major secretions and steroidogenic pathways of the female optic gland using mass spectrometry techniques. We find that at least three pathways are mobilized to increase synthesis of select sterol hormones after reproduction. One pathway generates pregnane steroids, known in other animals to support reproduction.[12-16] Two other pathways produce 7-dehydrocholesterol and bile acid intermediates, neither of which were previously known to be involved in semelparity. Our results provide insight into invertebrate cholesterol pathways and confirm a remarkable unity of steroid hormone biology in life history processes across Bilateria.}, }
@article {pmid35552760, year = {2022}, author = {DeRaad, DA and McCormack, JE and Chen, N and Peterson, AT and Moyle, RG}, title = {Combining Species Delimitation, Species Trees, and Tests for Gene Flow Clarifies Complex Speciation in Scrub-Jays.}, journal = {Systematic biology}, volume = {71}, number = {6}, pages = {1453-1470}, doi = {10.1093/sysbio/syac034}, pmid = {35552760}, issn = {1076-836X}, mesh = {Animals ; Gene Flow ; Genetic Speciation ; Genetics, Population ; *Passeriformes ; Phylogeny ; *Songbirds/genetics ; }, abstract = {Complex speciation, involving rapid divergence and multiple bouts of post-divergence gene flow, can obfuscate phylogenetic relationships and species limits. In North America, cases of complex speciation are common, due at least in part to the cyclical Pleistocene glacial history of the continent. Scrub-Jays in the genus Aphelocoma provide a useful case study in complex speciation because their range throughout North America is structured by phylogeographic barriers with multiple cases of secondary contact between divergent lineages. Here, we show that a comprehensive approach to genomic reconstruction of evolutionary history, i.e., synthesizing results from species delimitation, species tree reconstruction, demographic model testing, and tests for gene flow, is capable of clarifying evolutionary history despite complex speciation. We find concordant evidence across all statistical approaches for the distinctiveness of an endemic southern Mexico lineage (A. w. sumichrasti), culminating in support for the species status of this lineage under any commonly applied species concept. We also find novel genomic evidence for the species status of a Texas endemic lineage A. w. texana, for which equivocal species delimitation results were clarified by demographic modeling and spatially explicit models of gene flow. Finally, we find that complex signatures of both ancient and modern gene flow between the non-sister California Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma californica) and Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma woodhouseii) result in discordant gene trees throughout the species' genomes despite clear support for their overall isolation and species status. In sum, we find that a multi-faceted approach to genomic analysis can increase our understanding of complex speciation histories, even in well-studied groups. Given the emerging recognition that complex speciation is relatively commonplace, the comprehensive framework that we demonstrate for interrogation of species limits and evolutionary history using genomic data can provide a necessary roadmap for disentangling the impacts of gene flow and incomplete lineage sorting (ILS) to better understand the systematics of other groups with similarly complex evolutionary histories. [Gene flow; genomics; introgression; phylogenomics; population genetics; species delimitation; species trees; systematics.].}, }
@article {pmid35552557, year = {2022}, author = {Trivedi, M and Saxena, A and Shroff, Z and Sharma, M}, title = {Experiences and challenges in accessing hospitalization in a government-funded health insurance scheme: Evidence from early implementation of Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (PM-JAY) in India.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {17}, number = {5}, pages = {e0266798}, pmid = {35552557}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {001/WHO_/World Health Organization/International ; }, mesh = {Government ; *Health Services Accessibility ; Hospitalization ; Hospitals, Private ; Humans ; India ; *Insurance, Health ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Government-sponsored health insurance schemes can play an important role in improving the reach of healthcare services. Launched in 2018 in India, Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (PM-JAY) is one of the world's largest government-sponsored health insurance schemes. The objective of this study is to understand beneficiaries' experience of availing healthcare services at the empaneled hospitals in PM-JAY. This study examines the responsiveness of PM-JAY by measuring the prompt attention in service delivery, and access to information by the beneficiaries; financial burden experienced by the beneficiaries; and beneficiary's satisfaction with the experience of hospitalization under PMJAY and its determinants.<br><br>METHODS: The study was conducted during March-August 2019. Data were obtained through a survey conducted with 200 PM-JAY beneficiaries (or their caregivers) in the Indian states of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. The study population comprised of patients who received healthcare services at 14 study hospitals in April 2019. Prompt attention was measured in the form of a) effectiveness of helpdesk, and b) time taken at different stages of hospitalization and discharge events. Access to information by the beneficiaries was measured using the frequency and purpose of text messages and phone calls from the scheme authorities to the beneficiaries. The financial burden was measured in terms of the incidence and magnitude of out-of-pocket payments made by the beneficiaries separate from the cashless payment provided to hospitals by PMJAY. Beneficiaries' satisfaction was measured on a five-point Likert scale.<br><br>RESULTS: Socio-economically weaker sections of the society are availing healthcare services under PM-JAY. In Gujarat, the majority of the beneficiaries were made aware of the scheme by the government official channels. In Madhya Pradesh, the majority of the beneficiaries got to know about the scheme from informal sources. For most of the elements of prompt attention, access to information, and beneficiaries' satisfaction, hospitals in Gujarat performed significantly better than the hospitals in Madhya Pradesh. Similarly, for most of the elements of prompt attention, access to information, and beneficiaries' satisfaction, public hospitals performed significantly better than private hospitals. Incidence and magnitude of out-of-pocket payments were significantly higher in Madhya Pradesh as compared to Gujarat, and in private hospitals as compared to the public hospitals.<br><br>CONCLUSION: There is a need to focus on Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities for PM-JAY, especially in Madhya Pradesh. Capacity-building efforts need to be prioritized for private hospitals as compared to public hospitals, and for Madhya Pradesh as compared to Gujarat. There is a need to focus on enhancing the responsiveness of the scheme, and timely exchange of information with beneficiaries. There is also an urgent need for measures aimed at reducing the out-of-pocket payments made by the beneficiaries.}, }
@article {pmid35527352, year = {2022}, author = {Brynychová, K and Sládeček, M and Pešková, L and Chajma, P and Firlová, V and Elhassan, E and Vozabulová, E and Janatová, V and Almuhery, A and Šálek, M}, title = {Aggressiveness in a subtropical shorebird's nest defense is adjusted to the predator species and shared by conspecifics.}, journal = {Aggressive behavior}, volume = {48}, number = {5}, pages = {475-486}, doi = {10.1002/ab.22032}, pmid = {35527352}, issn = {1098-2337}, mesh = {Aggression ; Animals ; Birds ; *Nesting Behavior ; *Predatory Behavior ; }, abstract = {Aggression is an important component of an animal's defense when protecting offspring from predators. Ground nesting birds use a variety of defense strategies. However, their choice according to situation context is poorly known, especially in nonpasserines and in the subtropics and tropics. The ability to distinguish between differently dangerous predator species and the opportunity to share defense with conspecifics are potentially important but little-studied aspects of nest defense strategy. We experimentally studied the nest defense of Red-Wattled Lapwing in an individually marked population in a desert area near Dubai, UAE. We used three stuffed models representing 1) a predator dangerous both to adults and to nests (a cat), 2) a nest predator (a raven), and 3) a harmless reference model (a moorhen). We confirmed that the lapwings distinguished between predator species (being most aggressive toward the cat, and least aggressive toward the moorhen) and adjusted their defense strategy accordingly. In addition, conspecific visitors play a variety of roles in parents' defense strategy. They can strengthen the parental reaction, or they can assist in distracting a predator. The visitors included not only nesting neighbors but also nonbreeding floaters. Both parents participated in nest defense to a similar extent, regardless of incubation stage and ambient temperature. This study provides new insight into the complexity of the defensive patterns in ground-nesting birds inhabiting a hot environment. Comparative experimental research on a range of environments, with various bird species and predator models, can help us to understand the drivers of these defensive behavioral patterns.}, }
@article {pmid35526169, year = {2022}, author = {Hopf, C and Bunting, E and Clark, A and Childs-Sanford, S}, title = {Survival and Release of 5 American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) Naturally Infected With West Nile Virus.}, journal = {Journal of avian medicine and surgery}, volume = {36}, number = {1}, pages = {85-91}, doi = {10.1647/20-00112}, pmid = {35526169}, issn = {1082-6742}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; *Bird Diseases/epidemiology ; *Crows ; Humans ; *West Nile Fever/epidemiology/veterinary ; *West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) has had a significant effect on avian populations in the United States since being first identified in 1999. Avian species in WNV endemic areas do not suffer the same level of mortality that has been reported in birds within the United States since the virus was first identified in North America. Because of their unique susceptibility, American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) are often used to monitor the spread and severity of WNV in North America. American crows with WNV infections are received and treated at the Janet L. Swanson Wildlife Hospital (Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA) on a regular basis during the summer and fall and have historically had a 100% mortality rate. This report describes WNV-positive American crows that were treated, recovered from the infection, and were subsequently released. The 5 American crows in this case series were tested, when possible, by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and plaque reduction neutralization on admission and monitored with both PCR and plaque reduction neutralization throughout their rehabilitation process. Four of the 5 birds had a negative PCR test before release, and 1 bird had a "suspect" positive PCR test result before release. One of the crows was confirmed to have survived for at least 2.5 years after release. Viral shedding was documented up to 93 days after initial hospitalization, which is longer than any previous report of WNV shedding in an American crow.}, }
@article {pmid35522411, year = {2022}, author = {Jalil-Masir, H and Fattahi, R and Ghanbari-Adivi, E and Asadi Aghbolaghi, M and Ehteram, M and Ahmed, AN and El-Shafie, A}, title = {An inclusive multiple model for predicting total sediment transport rate in the presence of coastal vegetation cover based on optimized kernel extreme learning models.}, journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international}, volume = {29}, number = {44}, pages = {67180-67213}, pmid = {35522411}, issn = {1614-7499}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; *Learning ; }, abstract = {Predicting sediment transport rate (STR) in the presence of flexible vegetation is a critical task for modelers. Sediment transport modeling methods in the coastal region is equally challenging due to the nonlinearity of the STR-vegetation interaction. In the present study, the kernel extreme learning model (KELM) was integrated with the seagull optimization algorithm (SEOA), the crow optimization algorithm (COA), the firefly algorithm (FFA), and particle swarm optimization (PSO) to estimate the STR in the presence of vegetation cover. The rigidity index, D50/wave height, Newton number, drag coefficient, and cover density were used as inputs to the models. The root mean square error (RMSE), the mean absolute error (MAE), and percentage of bias (PBIAS) were used to evaluate the capability of models. This study applied the novel ensemble model, and the inclusive multiple model (IMM), to assemble the outputs of the KELM models. In addition, the innovations of this study were the introduction of a new IMM model, and the use of new hybrid KELM models for predicting STR and investigating the effects of various parameters on the STR. At the testing level, the MAE of the IMM model was 22, 60, 68, 73, and 76% lower than those of the KELM-SEOA, KELM-COA, KELM-PSO, and KELM models, respectively. The IMM had a PBIAS of 5, whereas the KELM-SEOA, KELM-COA, KELM-PSOA, and KELM had PBIAS of 9, 12, 14, 18, and 21%, respectively. The results indicated that the increasing drag coefficient and D50/wave height had decreased the STR. From the findings, it was revealed that the IMM and KELM-SEOA had higher predictive ability for STR. Since the sediment is one of the most important sources of environmental pollution, therefore, this study is useful for monitoring and controlling environmental pollution.}, }
@article {pmid35493937, year = {2022}, author = {Teixeira-Santos, AC and Moreira, CS and Pereira, DR and Pinal, D and Fregni, F and Leite, J and Carvalho, S and Sampaio, A}, title = {Working Memory Training Coupled With Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Experiment.}, journal = {Frontiers in aging neuroscience}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {827188}, pmid = {35493937}, issn = {1663-4365}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been employed to boost working memory training (WMT) effects. Nevertheless, there is limited evidence on the efficacy of this combination in older adults. The present study is aimed to assess the delayed transfer effects of tDCS coupled with WMT in older adults in a 15-day follow-up. We explored if general cognitive ability, age, and educational level predicted the effects.<br><br>METHODS: In this single-center, double-blind randomized sham-controlled experiment, 54 older adults were randomized into three groups: anodal-tDCS (atDCS)+WMT, sham-tDCS (stDCS)+WMT, and double-sham. Five sessions of tDCS (2 mA) were applied over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). Far transfer was measured by Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM), while the near transfer effects were assessed through Digit Span. A frequentist linear mixed model (LMM) was complemented by a Bayesian approach in data analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: Working memory training improved dual n-back performance in both groups submitted to this intervention but only the group that received atDCS+WMT displayed a significant improvement from pretest to follow-up in transfer measures of reasoning (RAPM) and short-term memory (forward Digit Span). Near transfer improvements predicted gains in far transfer, demonstrating that the far transfer is due to an improvement in the trained construct of working memory. Age, formal education, and vocabulary score seem to predict the gains in reasoning. However, Bayesian results do not provide substantial evidence to support this claim.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study will help to consolidate the incipient but auspicious field of cognitive training coupled with tDCS in healthy older adults. Our findings demonstrated that atDCS may potentialize WMT by promoting transfer effects in short-term memory and reasoning in older adults, which are observed especially at follow-up.}, }
@article {pmid35490423, year = {2022}, author = {Blazkova, B and Ambroz, A and Milcova, A and Pastorkova, A and Pastorkova, A and Rossner, P and Solansky, I and Veleminsky, M and Veleminsky, M and Veleminsky, M and Sram, RJ and Sram, RJ}, title = {A possible link between cognitive development in 5 years old children and prenatal oxidative stress.}, journal = {Neuro endocrinology letters}, volume = {43}, number = {1}, pages = {27-38}, pmid = {35490423}, issn = {2354-4716}, mesh = {8-Hydroxy-2'-Deoxyguanosine ; *Air Pollutants/adverse effects ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; Oxidative Stress ; Particulate Matter/adverse effects ; Pregnancy ; Vitamins ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: To study the impact of oxidative damage associated with particulate matter< 2.5 µm (PM2.5) during prenatal period on the cognitive development in five years old children.<br><br>METHODS: Two cohorts of children aged five years, born in the years 2013 and 2014, were studied for their cognitive development in the polluted district Karvina and the control district Ceske Budejovice. Exposure to PM2.5 in the ambient air was measured for each mother during the 3rd trimester of pregnancy. Oxidative damage was determined from the level of biomarkers at delivery in mothers&#xb4; and newborns&#xb4; urine as 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2&#xb4;-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG) and in plasma as 15-F2t-isoprostane levels (15-F2t-IsoP). The Bender Visual Motor Gestalt Test (BG test) and the Raven Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM test) were used as psychological cognitive tests.<br><br>RESULTS: Average concentrations of PM2.5 &#xb1; SD in the 3rd trimester of mothers&#xb4; pregnancies were 37.7 &#xb1; 14.7 &#xb5;g/m3 and 17.1 &#xb1; 4.8 &#xb5;g/m3 in Karvina and Ceske Budejovice, respectively (p < 0.001). The maternal level of 15-F2t-IsoP in plasma at the time of delivery was significantly associated with the results of the RCPM test (p < 0.05) and the BG test (p < 0.05) in five years old children.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Lipid peroxidation in maternal plasma at the time of delivery has an adverse effect on the results of psychological cognitive tests in five years old children.}, }
@article {pmid35489251, year = {2022}, author = {Pavia, M and Val, A and Carrera, L and Steininger, CM}, title = {Fossil birds from Cooper's D aid in reconstructing the Early Pleistocene paleoenvironment in the Cradle of Humankind (Gauteng, South Africa).}, journal = {Journal of human evolution}, volume = {167}, number = {}, pages = {103185}, doi = {10.1016/j.jhevol.2022.103185}, pmid = {35489251}, issn = {1095-8606}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; *Fossils ; *Hominidae ; Mammals ; South Africa ; }, abstract = {Several large-bodied hominin and nonhuman primates have coexisted in the Cradle of Humankind in South Africa during the Early Pleistocene. Previous paleoenvironmental studies regarding the Plio-Pleistocene of South Africa have focused heavily on mammal assemblages. Here, we conducted a comprehensive taxonomic analysis of the fossil bird remains from Cooper's D, the most fossiliferous locality of the hominin-bearing Cooper's Cave complex in South Africa. Our taxonomic evaluation of 505 remains reveals the presence of 23 bird taxa, two of which are extinct and already reported from the nearby fossil locality of Kromdraai. The taxonomically diverse bird assemblage is dominated by Francolinus sp. and other species associated with open grassland habitats, followed by rock-dwelling species, including Tyto cf. alba and the extinct Corvus bragai, and by woodland species such as Agapornis sp., Accipiter melanoleucos, and the extinct Glaucidium ireneae. The occurrence of these taxa and their respective proportions in the assemblage, in terms of both numbers of bones and individuals, point to the presence of extensive open grassland and/or savannah with rocky outcrops and woodland. These findings corroborate previous analyses of mammals from Cooper's D, with the exception of aquatic species, which are rare in the bird assemblage. Comparison with older deposits from Kromdraai confirms the definitive establishment of open habitats in the Cradle of Humankind during the Early Pleistocene following a transition from woodier habitats during the Late Pliocene. This study constitutes a further step in investigating the fossil bird diversity in the Cradle of Humankind during the Plio-Pleistocene. Our results add to the larger body of work using avian fossils for paleoenvironmental reconstructions in Africa and support the utility of birds as paleoenvironmental proxies. Similar future studies will refine our understanding of the paleoenvironments and landscape transformation during the Plio-Pleistocene, a critical timeframe for hominin evolution in southern Africa.}, }
@article {pmid35488497, year = {2023}, author = {Peona, V and Kutschera, VE and Blom, MPK and Irestedt, M and Suh, A}, title = {Satellite DNA evolution in Corvoidea inferred from short and long reads.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {32}, number = {6}, pages = {1288-1305}, doi = {10.1111/mec.16484}, pmid = {35488497}, issn = {1365-294X}, support = {2016-05139//Vetenskapsr&#xe5;det/ ; 2019-03900//Vetenskapsr&#xe5;det/ ; 2020-04436//Vetenskapsr&#xe5;det/ ; 621-2014-5113//Vetenskapsr&#xe5;det/ ; 2017-01597//Svenska Forskningsr&#xe5;det Formas/ ; //Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *DNA, Satellite/genetics ; *Crows/genetics ; Eukaryota ; Eukaryotic Cells ; }, abstract = {Satellite DNA (satDNA) is a fast-evolving portion of eukaryotic genomes. The homogeneous and repetitive nature of such satDNA causes problems during the assembly of genomes, and therefore it is still difficult to study it in detail in nonmodel organisms as well as across broad evolutionary timescales. Here, we combined the use of short- and long-read data to explore the diversity and evolution of satDNA between individuals of the same species and between genera of birds spanning ~40 millions of years of bird evolution using birds-of-paradise (Paradisaeidae) and crow (Corvus) species. These avian species highlighted the presence of a GC-rich Corvoidea satellitome composed of 61 satellite families and provided a set of candidate satDNA monomers for being centromeric on the basis of length, abundance, homogeneity and transcription. Surprisingly, we found that the satDNA of crow species rapidly diverged between closely related species while the satDNA appeared more similar between birds-of-paradise species belonging to different genera.}, }
@article {pmid35482064, year = {2022}, author = {Casabona, G and Kaye, K}, title = {Effects of Polynucleotide Dermal Filler in the Correction of Crow's Feet Using an Antera Three-Dimensional Camera.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {46}, number = {4}, pages = {1910-1912}, pmid = {35482064}, issn = {1432-5241}, mesh = {*Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; *Dermal Fillers ; Eye ; Humans ; Polynucleotides ; *Skin Aging ; }, }
@article {pmid35476231, year = {2022}, author = {Ocañas, AR and Danoff-Burg, JA and Mulroe, K and Walton, SR}, title = {Addressing the raven food subsidy challenge by engaging restaurants to close their dumpsters.}, journal = {Zoo biology}, volume = {41}, number = {5}, pages = {491-500}, doi = {10.1002/zoo.21696}, pmid = {35476231}, issn = {1098-2361}, support = {//Southern California Edison/ ; 8006.19.064748//National Fish and Wildlife Foundation/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Zoo ; *Crows ; Food ; Humans ; *Refuse Disposal ; Restaurants ; }, abstract = {Ravens have benefitted from resource subsidies provided by humans so much that their population has increased by over 800% in the western Mojave desert over the last 50 years. Our food waste is an especially large subsidy. Raven predation is one of the greatest threats to desert tortoise survival in the California desert. We sought to create and evaluate a behavioral change program among restaurants in Yucca Valley and Twentynine Palms, California in the western Mojave with elevated raven populations. Half of the 60 restaurants in these two communities received an intervention encouraging them to close their dumpsters while the other half served as controls with no intervention. Treatment restaurants received two in-person visits to discuss the manifold importance of dumpster closure and laminated information signs to display and extend communication to staff. We surveyed all dumpsters for open/closed status five times before the intervention and five times again 3 months after the intervention. We found a significant increase in closure rates among treatment restaurants due to the interventions, with an average of 9.5% increase toward maximum possible lid closure. Restaurants achieving 80%+ closure received "Gold Star Awards" to further stimulate community-wide behavior change by publicly recognizing and encouraging desired behaviors. We summarize dumpster closure rates from similar interventions in nearby Joshua Tree and across the Coachella Valley to illustrate how local social norms may influence behavior.}, }
@article {pmid35471293, year = {2022}, author = {Rezaei, MH and Yavari, MH}, title = {CROW-based Fano structures for all optical switching devices.}, journal = {Applied optics}, volume = {61}, number = {11}, pages = {3156-3164}, doi = {10.1364/AO.453364}, pmid = {35471293}, issn = {1539-4522}, abstract = {In this paper, an improved optical Fano switch based on coupled resonator optical waveguides (CROWs) is presented. The new topological design is employed to achieve steeper and highly asymmetric Fano resonances (FRs). Physically, in the proposed structures, due to the increase in the effective refractive index at the center of the CROW, a confined mode arises in the continuum background according to the variational theorem and leads to FR. The results show that in CROW-based Fano switches, the Fano spectrum is improved by tuning the number of nanocavities. The ratio between the slope ratio and linewidth shows an improvement of 55.25% from single to CROW5. As an important application of FR, an ultra-compact device with a CROW-based Fano structure is demonstrated. The results of the numerical finite difference time domain simulation agree well with the theoretical coupled mode theory.}, }
@article {pmid35469528, year = {2022}, author = {Al-Fakih, AM and Algamal, ZY and Qasim, MK}, title = {An improved opposition-based crow search algorithm for biodegradable material classification.}, journal = {SAR and QSAR in environmental research}, volume = {33}, number = {5}, pages = {403-415}, doi = {10.1080/1062936X.2022.2064546}, pmid = {35469528}, issn = {1029-046X}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Animals ; *Crows ; Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship ; }, abstract = {The development of a reliable quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) classification model with a small number of molecular descriptors is a crucial step in chemometrics. In this study, an improvement of crow search algorithm (CSA) is proposed by adapting the opposite-based learning (OBL) approach, which is named as OBL-CSA, to improve the exploration and exploitation capability of the CSA in quantitative structure-biodegradation relationship (QSBR) modelling of classifying the biodegradable materials. The results reveal that the performance of OBL-CSA not only manifest in improving the classification performance, but also in reduced computational time required to complete the process when compared to the standard CSA and other four optimization algorithms tested, which are the particle swarm algorithm (PSO), black hole algorithm (BHA), grey wolf algorithm (GWA), and whale optimization algorithm (WOA). In conclusion, the OBL-CSA could be a valuable resource in the classification of biodegradable materials.}, }
@article {pmid35465830, year = {2022}, author = {Kalaivani, K and Uma Maheswari, N and Venkatesh, R}, title = {Heart disease diagnosis using optimized features of hybridized ALCSOGA algorithm and LSTM classifier.}, journal = {Network (Bristol, England)}, volume = {33}, number = {1-2}, pages = {95-123}, doi = {10.1080/0954898X.2022.2061062}, pmid = {35465830}, issn = {1361-6536}, mesh = {Algorithms ; *Heart Diseases ; Humans ; *Quality of Life ; }, abstract = {Cardiac disease is the predominant cause of global death mainly due to its hidden symptoms and late diagnosis. Hence, early detection is important to improve quality of life. Though traditional researches attempted to predict heart disease, most of them lacked with respect to accuracy. To solve this, the present study proposes a hybridized Ant Lion Crow Search Optimization Genetic Algorithm (ALCSOGA) to perform effective feature selection. This hybrid optimization encompasses Ant Lion, Crow Search and Genetic Algorithm. Ant lion algorithm determines the elite position. While, the Crow Search Algorithm utilizes the phenomenon of position and memory of each crow for evaluating the objective function. Both these algorithms are fed into Genetic Algorithm to improve the performance of feature selection process. Then, Stochastic Learning rate optimized Long Short Term Memory (LSTM) is proposed to classify the extracted optimized features. Finally, comparative analysis is performed in terms of accuracy, recall, F1-score, and precision. Moreover, statistical analysis is performed with respect to Sum of Squares (SS), degree of freedom (df), F Critical (F crit), F Statistics (F), p, and Mean Square (MS) value. Analytical results revealed the efficiency of proposed system over conventional methods and thereby confirming its efficiency for predicting heart disease.}, }
@article {pmid35460310, year = {2023}, author = {Kang, JW and Cho, HE and Choi, HM and Lee, IC}, title = {Anti-wrinkle properties of Angelica gigas Nakai root extracts using mineral-rich water.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {328-334}, pmid = {35460310}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Humans ; *Skin Aging ; *Mineral Waters ; Collagen Type I ; Double-Blind Method ; *Angelica ; Minerals ; Plant Extracts/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Angelica gigas Nakai is used as an herbal pharmaceutical material in Korea.<br><br>AIMS: To investigate the anti-wrinkle effects of A.&#xa0;gigas Nakai root extracts (ARE) using mineral-rich water in in vitro and clinical trials.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: The cell viability of ARE was evaluated using a water-soluble tetrazolium salt assay. After evaluating ARE's cytotoxicity, we used an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit to assess the effects of ARE on type I collagen in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). During a double-blinded in vivo clinical study, participants were randomly assigned to use the sample and placebo formulations for the left and right sides of their face over an 8-week period. We evaluated the anti-wrinkle properties of the formulations using PRIMOS Lite and a global photodamage score.<br><br>RESULTS: A.&#xa0;gigas Nakai root extracts cytotoxicity was evaluated in HDFs. We demonstrate that ARE increased type I collagen production by 40% at 50&#xa0;&#x3bc;g/ml as compared with the control. The use of an ARE lotion significantly reduced the presence of crow's feet wrinkles in comparison with the use of the placebo after 8&#xa0;weeks. Additionally, use of the ARE lotion led to decreased photodamage scores, indicating anti-wrinkle effects.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The use of ARE with mineral-rich water has anti-wrinkle effects in in vitro and clinical trials.}, }
@article {pmid35459668, year = {2022}, author = {Luo, D and Tan, L and Shen, D and Lai, M and Tang, Q and Xu, J and Li, J}, title = {Effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on cognitive dysfunction induced by nitrous oxide abuse: protocol of a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial.}, journal = {BMJ open}, volume = {12}, number = {4}, pages = {e054876}, pmid = {35459668}, issn = {2044-6055}, mesh = {Cognition ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/chemically induced/therapy ; Double-Blind Method ; Humans ; *Hyperbaric Oxygenation ; Nitrous Oxide ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Research Design ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The cognitive dysfunction associated with nitrous oxide abuse is gradually becoming a major global public health concern. Despite the increasing prevalence of nitrous oxide abuse, there are currently no authorised/approved treatment options. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been proven to be an efficient method to improve cognitive function. The current randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial will explore the effect of HBOT on cognitive dysfunction induced by nitrous oxide abuse.<br><br>METHODS AND ANALYSIS: Eighty participants who abuse nitrous oxide and have cognitive dysfunction, including memory decline, disorientation, attention deficits, slower reactions and learning disabilities, will be included in the trial. They will be randomly assigned to receive either HBOT or sham-HBOT 90-120&#x2009;min once daily for 5&#x2009;days per week for 2&#x2009;weeks. The primary outcome will be the improvement in the total score of the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery, which will measure comprehensive cognitive function between the two groups. Additionally, attention will be measured by integrated visual and auditory continuous performance tests, executive function will be measured by the Wisconsin card sorting test, intelligence will be measured by Raven's standard progressive matrices and cognitive control will be measured by the Stroop colour word interference test.<br><br>ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This protocol was approved by the West China Hospital of Sichuan University Biomedical Research Ethics Committee. The report of the study will be disseminated via scientific forums including peer-reviewed publications and presentations at national and international conferences.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2100047111).}, }
@article {pmid35459249, year = {2022}, author = {Johnsson, RD and Connelly, F and Gaviraghi Mussoi, J and Vyssotski, AL and Cain, KE and Roth, TC and Lesku, JA}, title = {Sleep loss impairs cognitive performance and alters song output in Australian magpies.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {6645}, pmid = {35459249}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Birds ; Cognition ; Mammals ; *Sleep ; *Sleep Deprivation/psychology ; Wakefulness ; }, abstract = {Sleep maintains optimal brain functioning to facilitate behavioural flexibility while awake. Owing to a historical bias towards research on mammals, we know comparatively little about the role of sleep in facilitating the cognitive abilities of birds. We investigated how sleep deprivation over the full-night (12 h) or half-night (6 h) affects cognitive performance in adult Australian magpies (Cracticus tibicen), relative to that after a night of undisturbed sleep. Each condition was preceded and followed by a baseline and recovery night of sleep, respectively. Prior to each treatment, birds were trained on an associative learning task; on the day after experimental treatment (recovery day), birds were tested on a reversal learning task. To glean whether sleep loss affected song output, we also conducted impromptu song recordings for three days. Ultimately, sleep-deprived magpies were slower to attempt the reversal learning task, less likely to perform and complete the task, and those that did the test performed worse than better-rested birds. We also found that sleep-deprived magpies sang longer yet fewer songs, shifted crepuscular singing to mid-day, and during the post-recovery day, song frequency bandwidth narrowed. These results collectively indicate that sleep loss impairs motivation and cognitive performance, and alters song output, in a social adult songbird.}, }
@article {pmid35455594, year = {2022}, author = {Melogno, S and Pinto, MA and Lauriola, M}, title = {Becoming the Metalinguistic Mind: The Development of Metalinguistic Abilities in Children from 5 to 7.}, journal = {Children (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {9}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {35455594}, issn = {2227-9067}, abstract = {The object of this study is the development of metalinguistic abilities in an age range-5 to 7 years-where an important turn takes place in education, namely the transition between kindergarten and primary school. Based on the literature starting from the 70's of the last century, embryonic forms of awareness of how language variation can be manipulated to convey variation in meaning are widely attested in preschoolers. These forms, however, denote an intuitive and implicit level of awareness and will attain a "meta-level", based on more systematic and explicit reflectiveness, later in development in correlation with cognitive, linguistic, and educational factors. To measure the development of these abilities across the above age range, we recruited 160 native Italian-speaking children from 5 to 7, with comparable numerosity at each age, gender balance, average socio-cultural background, and no cognitive nor neuropsychological impairment. We used 6 metalinguistic tasks, the Raven's CPM, a lexical and grammatical ability tests. The results showed a significant increase in all the measures across the span considered and correlations between all the measures. A factor analysis on the metalinguistic tasks showed that a single factor accounted for a large part of the common variance.}, }
@article {pmid35455521, year = {2022}, author = {Stegariu, VI and Abalasei, BA and Stoica, M}, title = {A Study on the Correlation between Intelligence and Body Schema in Children Who Practice Chess at School.}, journal = {Children (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {9}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {35455521}, issn = {2227-9067}, abstract = {The role of intelligence in chess is crucial because the game involves a situation of adversity between two players whose goal is to checkmate the opponent's king. Due to the complex nature of the game and the huge amount of information needed to become a professional chess player, the ability to receive, analyze, sort and use abstract notions is essential. A total of 67 children from the third grade were selected and tested twice, initially and finally, to establish the level of body schema and intelligence. The Raven test was used to numerically quantify their intelligence and the Goodenough test was conducted for the body schema. We used the paired samples T-test to highlight the statistical difference between the results and performed a simple linear regression to see if the level of intelligence is a predictor of the body schema. There is a linear relationship between intelligence and body schema, and we can use the first one to predict the evolution of the second. In conclusion, body schema can be educated through chess lessons, and this will lead to better psychomotor development.}, }
@article {pmid35455490, year = {2022}, author = {Smirni, P and Smirni, D}, title = {Current and Potential Cognitive Development in Healthy Children: A New Approach to Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Children (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {9}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {35455490}, issn = {2227-9067}, abstract = {In clinical practice and research, Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPMs) continue to be used according to a single procedure that aims to evaluate a single overall score of the current general intelligence level. This study aimed to examine potential cognitive development in a sample of 450 typically developing children, aged from 6 to 10 years, by administering RCPMs according to the standard procedure followed immediately by a standardized interview on incorrect items. In addition, the study aimed to analyze how performance differed across age groups. The results analysis was examined on the basis of three different factors in which the items were grouped in previous factorial studies. The results found that performance improved markedly and significantly after the interview; however, the improvement was not homogeneous in the three factors across age groups or within each age group. The age groups showed a different development potential in relation to the nature of the task: the younger ones showed a greater increase on items requiring figure completion, and the older ones showed a greater increase on analogical reasoning items. Finally, the children who showed the greatest improvement were those with the best performance in standard RCPM administration. The procedure described in the present research could represent a useful tool in clinical practice and in the research for a broader cognitive assessment focused on potential cognitive development, as well as on real cognitive development, and to favor the planning of more adequate rehabilitation and educational treatments.}, }
@article {pmid35449129, year = {2022}, author = {Garcia-Porta, J and Sol, D and Pennell, M and Sayol, F and Kaliontzopoulou, A and Botero, CA}, title = {Niche expansion and adaptive divergence in the global radiation of crows and ravens.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {2086}, pmid = {35449129}, issn = {2041-1723}, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological ; Animals ; Biological Evolution ; *Crows ; Ecosystem ; Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {The processes that allow some lineages to diversify rapidly at a global scale remain poorly understood. Although earlier studies emphasized the importance of dispersal, global expansions expose populations to novel environments and may also require adaptation and diversification across new niches. In this study, we investigated the contributions of these processes to the global radiation of crows and ravens (genus Corvus). Combining a new phylogeny with comprehensive phenotypic and climatic data, we show that Corvus experienced a massive expansion of the climatic niche that was coupled with a substantial increase in the rates of species and phenotypic diversification. The initiation of these processes coincided with the evolution of traits that promoted dispersal and niche expansion. Our findings suggest that rapid global radiations may be better understood as processes in which high dispersal abilities synergise with traits that, like cognition, facilitate persistence in new environments.}, }
@article {pmid35441196, year = {2022}, author = {Sugimoto, T and Kuroda, Y and Matsumoto, N and Uchida, K and Kishino, Y and Saji, N and Niida, S and Sakurai, T}, title = {Cross-Sectional Associations of Sarcopenia and Its Components with Neuropsychological Performance among Memory Clinic Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer's Disease.}, journal = {The Journal of frailty &amp; aging}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, pages = {182-189}, doi = {10.14283/jfa.2022.3}, pmid = {35441196}, issn = {2260-1341}, mesh = {*Alzheimer Disease/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnosis/epidemiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Hand Strength/physiology ; Humans ; Male ; Postural Balance ; *Sarcopenia/complications/diagnosis/epidemiology ; Time and Motion Studies ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The association of sarcopenia with cognitive function in its specific domains remains poorly understood.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To investigate the association of sarcopenia and its components with neuropsychological performance among patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD).<br><br>DESIGN: Cross-sectional design.<br><br>SETTING: A memory clinic in Japan.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: The study included 497 MCI/684 AD patients aged 65-89 years.<br><br>MEASUREMENTS: Patients were assessed for muscle mass by bioelectrical impedance analysis, muscle strength by hand grip strength (HGS), and physical performance by timed up and go test (TUG). Sarcopenia was defined as presence of both low muscle strength and low muscle mass. The patients underwent neuropsychological tests, including logical memory, frontal lobe assessment battery, word fluency test, Raven's colored progressive matrices, digit span, and the Alzheimer's disease assessment scale-cognitive subscale (ADAS-cog).<br><br>RESULTS: The prevalence of sarcopenia in men and women was 24.1% and 19.5%, respectively. In multiple regression analyses adjusting for confounders, unlike in men, sarcopenia was associated with memory function in women (ADAS-cog, memory domain, coefficient = 1.08, standard error (SE) = 0.36), which was thought likely due to the relationship between HGS and memory function (immediate recall of logical memory, coefficient = 0.07, SE = 0.03; ADAS-cog, memory domain, coefficient = -0.10, SE = 0.03). Of the components of sarcopenia in both sexes, HGS and TUG were associated with visuospatial function and frontal lobe function, respectively.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The specific association of sarcopenia and its components with cognitive domains may provide the key to elucidating the muscle-brain interactions in AD.}, }
@article {pmid35428810, year = {2022}, author = {Amor, N and Noman, MT and Petru, M and Sebastian, N}, title = {Comfort evaluation of ZnO coated fabrics by artificial neural network assisted with golden eagle optimizer model.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {6350}, pmid = {35428810}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Animals ; *Eagles ; Neural Networks, Computer ; Propylamines ; Sulfides ; Textiles ; *Zinc Oxide ; }, abstract = {This paper introduces a novel technique to evaluate comfort properties of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) coated woven fabrics. The proposed technique combines artificial neural network (ANN) and golden eagle optimizer (GEO) to ameliorate the training process of ANN. Neural networks are state-of-the-art machine learning models used for optimal state prediction of complex problems. Recent studies showed that the use of metaheuristic algorithms improve the prediction accuracy of ANN. GEO is the most advanced methaheurstic algorithm inspired by golden eagles and their intelligence for hunting by tuning their speed according to spiral trajectory. From application point of view, this study is a very first attempt where GEO is applied along with ANN to improve the training process of ANN for any textiles and composites application. Furthermore, the proposed algorithm ANN with GEO (ANN-GEO) was applied to map out the complex input-output conditions for optimal results. Coated amount of ZnO NPs, fabric mass and fabric thickness were selected as input variables and comfort properties were evaluated as output results. The obtained results reveal that ANN-GEO model provides high performance accuracy than standard ANN model, ANN models trained with latest metaheuristic algorithms including particle swarm optimizer and crow search optimizer, and conventional multiple linear regression.}, }
@article {pmid35426243, year = {2023}, author = {Moy, M and Diaz, I and Lesniak, E and Giancola, G}, title = {Peptide-pro complex serum: Investigating effects on aged skin.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {267-274}, pmid = {35426243}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//Colgate-Palmolive Company/ ; //PCA SKIN/ ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Aged ; *Skin Aging ; Skin/diagnostic imaging ; Epidermis ; Peptides/pharmacology ; Amino Acids ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Effective anti-aging treatments are an unmet consumer need.<br><br>AIM: Ex vivoand clinical tests have evaluated the efficacy of a topical facial serum containing a proprietary blend of neuropeptides, proteins, amino acids, and marine extracts on aged skin.<br><br>METHODS: In the ex vivo study the facial serum was compared to a commercially marketed face serum and to an untreated control on skin explants using microrelief, smoothness, and epidermal thickness endpoints. The 12&#xa0;weeks monadic clinical study was designed for the test product to be used on the whole face. Subjects functioned as their own control; evaluating change from baseline. Skin was evaluated clinically by a Dermatologist for tolerability and for efficacy. Also part of the product assessment was skin hydration measurements, imaging, and a subject questionnaire.<br><br>RESULTS: The facial serum improved skin condition by significant reductions in skin surface area occupied by microfolds and in skin roughness. Additionally, it increased epidermal thickness as compared to the untreated control as well as the commercially marketed face serum. The facial serum provided a statistically increased skin moisturization compared to pretreatment values. Dermatological evaluation of the skin concluded that there were statistically and clinically significant improvements in skin smoothness, wrinkles severity, fine lines visibility and lifting, and tightening effects at crow's feet area, forehead, and upper lip.<br><br>CONCLUSION: A facial serum, containing a proprietary blend of neuropeptides, proteins, amino acids, and marine extracts, has been shown to improve the overall quality of aged skin in a series of ex vivo and clinical tests.}, }
@article {pmid35418640, year = {2022}, author = {}, title = {First Rounders: Jay Keasling.}, journal = {Nature biotechnology}, volume = {40}, number = {4}, pages = {475}, doi = {10.1038/s41587-022-01292-4}, pmid = {35418640}, issn = {1546-1696}, mesh = {*Biotechnology ; }, }
@article {pmid35403214, year = {2022}, author = {Sianta, SA and Kay, KM}, title = {Phylogenomic analysis does not support a classic but controversial hypothesis of progenitor-derivative origins for the serpentine endemic Clarkia franciscana.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {76}, number = {6}, pages = {1246-1259}, pmid = {35403214}, issn = {1558-5646}, mesh = {Animals ; *Clarkia/genetics ; *Dolphins ; Genetic Speciation ; Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {Budding speciation involves isolation of marginal populations at the periphery of a species range and is thought to be a prominent mode of speciation in organisms with low dispersal and/or strong local adaptation among populations. Budding speciation is typically evidenced by abutting, asymmetric ranges of ecologically divergent sister species and low genetic diversity in putative budded species. Yet these indirect patterns may be unreliable, instead caused by postspeciation processes such as range or demographic shifts. Nested phylogenetic relationships provide the most conclusive evidence of budding speciation. A putative case of budding speciation in the serpentine endemic Clarkia franciscana and two closely related widespread congeners was studied by Harlan Lewis, Peter Raven, Leslie Gottlieb, and others over a 20-year period, yet the origin of C. franciscana remains controversial. Here, we reinvestigate this system with phylogenomic analyses to determine whether C. franciscana is a recently derived budded species, phylogenetically nested within one of the other two putative progenitor species. In contrast to the hypothesized pattern of relatedness among the three Clarkia species, we find no evidence for recent budding speciation. Instead, the data suggest the three species diverged simultaneously. We urge caution in using contemporary range patterns to infer geographic modes of speciation.}, }
@article {pmid35370868, year = {2021}, author = {Sofologi, M and Pliogou, V and Bonti, E and Efstratopoulou, M and Kougioumtzis, GA and Papatzikis, E and Ntritsos, G and Moraitou, D and Papantoniou, G}, title = {An Investigation of Working Memory Profile and Fluid Intelligence in Children With Neurodevelopmental Difficulties.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {773732}, pmid = {35370868}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {The present study aims to evaluate the distinct patterns of working memory (WM) capacity of children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), High-functioning children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and children with Down syndrome (DS). More specifically, the current study investigates the complex relationship of fluid intelligence and WM between 39 children with DLD, 20 H igh-functioning children with ASD, and 15 children with DS. All children were evaluated in different measures of Phonological Working Memory, Visual-spatial Working Memory whereas Fluid Intelligence was measured with Raven Progressive Matrices. The result analysis revealed a significant difference among the three groups, both among each function separately and the correlations among them, as well. The results revealed that the DLD groups and High-functioning ASD group exhibited a common picture or an overlap of performances in all Phonological and Visuo-spatial working memory measures, except Backward Digit Recall task. As for the DS group research findings revealed different and unique working memory patterns in comparison to DLD group and High-functioning ASD. Their differences have been studied and further conclusions have been drawn about the different patterns of working memory among the three clinical groups. The implications of these findings are discussed in light of support for learning. The common profile that characterize the two developmental conditions and the distinct pattern of working memory performance in DS group underlies the need for further research in the field.}, }
@article {pmid35369078, year = {2022}, author = {Wei, K and Guo, C and Zhu, J and Wei, Y and Wu, M and Huang, X and Zhang, M and Li, J and Wang, X and Wang, Y and Wei, X}, title = {The Whitening, Moisturizing, Anti-aging Activities, and Skincare Evaluation of Selenium-Enriched Mung Bean Fermentation Broth.}, journal = {Frontiers in nutrition}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {837168}, pmid = {35369078}, issn = {2296-861X}, abstract = {Selenium-enriched mung bean (Se-MB) is a combination of mung bean (MB) and selenium (Se), which have a variety of potential biological activities. However, little is known about the skincare activity of Se-MB. The chemical composition of Se-MB fermentation broth (Se-MBFB) was analyzed to investigate the whitening, moisturizing, and anti-aging activities of Se-MBFB. The tyrosinase inhibition, anti-melanogenic in melanocytes (B16F10 cells), and moisturizing effect in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) were analyzed. Besides, the free radical scavenging activity of Se-MBFB was assessed in vitro. To verify the in vivo effects and the potential of practical applications of Se-MBFB, a clinical trial was conducted on the participants: 31 Chinese women aged 25-60 years, with no pigmentation disorder, no illness, no history of hypersensitivity reaction, and no use of skincare product on the face. The participants used an Se-MBFB masque for 15-20 min after cleaning the face. The measurement points were Week 0, 2, and 4 (W0, W2, and W4) after using the masque, and target sites were cheek and canthus. The following parameters were recorded on the target sites at each visit: melanin index, skin color, cuticle moisture content, transepidermal water loss, and crow's feet. The results demonstrated that Se-MBFB was rich in polyphenols, peptides, and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), displayed significant free radical scavenging and tyrosinase inhibiting activities, decreased the synthesis of melanin, and upregulated the aquaporin-3 (AQP3) expression. The test of the Se-MBFB mask showed that after 4 weeks of using the Se-MBFB facemask, the faces of the participants became whiter with reduced wrinkles and increased moisture content. Se-MB possessed the excellent whitening, moisturizing, and antioxidant efficacy, which could lay a scientific foundation for utilization and development of skincare products of Se-MB and its related industrial cosmetics products.}, }
@article {pmid35365698, year = {2022}, author = {Holtmann, B and Buskas, J and Steele, M and Sokolovskis, K and Wolf, JBW}, title = {Author Correction: Dominance relationships and coalitionary aggression against conspecifics in female carrion crows.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {5537}, doi = {10.1038/s41598-022-09406-3}, pmid = {35365698}, issn = {2045-2322}, }
@article {pmid35357558, year = {2022}, author = {Kim, JH and Kim, ES and Kim, SW and Hong, SP and Kim, J}, title = {Effects of Polynucleotide Dermal Filler in the Correction of Crow's Feet Using an Antera Three-Dimensional Camera.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {46}, number = {4}, pages = {1902-1909}, pmid = {35357558}, issn = {1432-5241}, mesh = {*Dermal Fillers ; Humans ; Melanins ; Polynucleotides ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Dermal fillers are gaining interest for tissue enlargement and skin improvement. Among them, polynucleotides have demonstrated multiple skin beneficial effects. The effects of polynucleotide fillers were objectively evaluated using an Antera 3D camera, subjectively evaluated by participants and investigators.<br><br>METHODS: Thirty subjects with crow's feet were enrolled in the study. The subjects received polynucleotide filler for crow's feet. Crow's feet grading score (CFGS), global esthetic improvement scale (GAIS), and Antera 3D imaging results were evaluated.<br><br>RESULTS: Twenty-eight subjects (93.3%) completed the study. An improvement in CFGS compared with that at baseline (p < 0.001) was observed 18 weeks after the first injection of polynucleotides. Additionally, at the final visit, there were improvements in wrinkle, texture, pore, depression, and Hb values compared with those at baseline (p < 0.05). However, no significant difference in melanin level was detected between the initial and final visits.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Improvements in wrinkles, pores, texture, depression, and Hb level after polynucleotide filler injection were verified by objective and subjective evaluations. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the objective evaluation of polynucleotide fillers in crow's feet using the Antera 3D camera.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .}, }
@article {pmid35352289, year = {2022}, author = {Mechera-Ostrovsky, T and Heinke, S and Andraszewicz, S and Rieskamp, J}, title = {Cognitive abilities affect decision errors but not risk preferences: A meta-analysis.}, journal = {Psychonomic bulletin &amp; review}, volume = {29}, number = {5}, pages = {1719-1750}, pmid = {35352289}, issn = {1531-5320}, mesh = {Humans ; Bayes Theorem ; *Cognition ; *Decision Making ; Probability ; Risk-Taking ; }, abstract = {When making risky decisions, people should evaluate the consequences and the chances of the outcome occurring. We examine the risk-preference hypothesis, which states that people's cognitive abilities affect their evaluation of choice options and consequently their risk-taking behavior. We compared the risk-preference hypothesis against a parsimonious error hypothesis, which states that lower cognitive abilities increase decision errors. Increased decision errors can be misinterpreted as more risk-seeking behavior because in most risk-taking tasks, random choice behavior is often misclassified as risk-seeking behavior. We tested these two competing hypotheses against each other with a systematic literature review and a Bayesian meta-analysis summarizing the empirical correlations. Results based on 30 studies and 62 effect sizes revealed no credible association between cognitive abilities and risk aversion. Apparent correlations between cognitive abilities and risk aversion can be explained by biased risk-preference-elicitation tasks, where more errors are misinterpreted as specific risk preferences. In sum, the reported associations between cognitive abilities and risk preferences are spurious and mediated by a misinterpretation of erroneous choice behavior. This result also has general implications for any research area in which treatment effects, such as decreased cognitive attention or motivation, could increase decision errors and be misinterpreted as specific preference changes.}, }
@article {pmid35350387, year = {2021}, author = {Lorenc, ZP and Jones, D and Kim, J and Gwak, HM and Batham, S and Vachon, G}, title = {Validating a Series of Photonumeric Rating Scales for Use in Facial Aesthetics Using Statistical Analysis of Intra- and Inter-rater Reliability.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal. Open forum}, volume = {3}, number = {4}, pages = {ojab039}, pmid = {35350387}, issn = {2631-4797}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Growing demand for minimally invasive aesthetic procedures to correct age-related facial changes and optimize facial proportions has been met with innovation but has created an unmet need for objective assessment tools to evaluate results empirically.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study is to establish the intra- and inter-rater reliability of ordinal, photonumeric, 4-, or 5-point rating scales for clinical use to assess facial aesthetics.<br><br>METHODS: Board-certified plastic surgeons and dermatologists (3 raters) performed live validation of jawline contour, temple volume, chin retrusion, nasolabial folds, vertical perioral lip lines, midface volume loss, lip fullness, and crow's feet dynamic- and at rest-rating scales over 2 rounds, 2 weeks apart. Subjects selected for live validation represented the range of scores and included 54 to 83 subjects for each scale. Test-retest reliability was quantitated through intra- and inter-rater reliability, determined from the mean weighted kappa and round 2 intraclass correlation coefficients, respectively. The clinical significance of a 1-grade difference was assessed through rater comparison of 31 pairs of side-by-side photographs of subjects with the same grade or a different grade on the developed scales.<br><br>RESULTS: The study demonstrated substantial to near-perfect intra- and inter-rater reliability of all scales when utilized by trained raters to assess a diverse group of live subjects. Furthermore, the clinical significance of a 1-point difference on all the developed scales was established.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The high test-retest reliability and intuitive layout of these scales provide an objective approach with standardized ratings for clinical assessment of various facial features.}, }
@article {pmid35347860, year = {2023}, author = {Buzzanca, A and Accinni, T and Frascarelli, M and Troisi, E and Kotzalidis, GD and Di Bonaventura, C and Fanella, M and Putotto, C and Marino, B and Pasquini, M and Biondi, M and Di Fabio, F}, title = {Recognition of facial emotion expressions and perceptual processes in 22q11.2 deletion syndrome.}, journal = {Early intervention in psychiatry}, volume = {17}, number = {1}, pages = {76-84}, pmid = {35347860}, issn = {1751-7893}, mesh = {Humans ; *DiGeorge Syndrome/psychology ; Emotions ; *Schizophrenia/genetics ; *Psychotic Disorders ; Recognition, Psychology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Social cognition (SC) deficits and of its facial emotion expression (FEE) component have been described in 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome (22q11.2DS), a high-risk for schizophrenia (SCZ) systemic genetic syndrome. Correlations between deficits in FEE skills and visual-spatial abilities in people with 22q11.2DS warrant investigation.<br><br>METHODS: The sample consisted of 37 patients with 22q11.2DS (DEL), 19 with 22q11.2DS and psychosis (DEL-SCZ), 23 with idiopathic SCZ, and 48 healthy controls. We assessed FEE through The Ekman 60 Faces test (EK-F60), visual-spatial skills with Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices, and symptom severity with the positive And negative syndrome scale. Statistics were conducted through multivariate analysis of variance and correlation analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: Patients with 22q11.2DS performed worse that the other groups in recognizing Surprise, Disgust, Rage, Fear, and Neutral expressions on the EK-F60. Recognition of Surprise and Disgust correlated positively with visual-spatial abilities in patients with 22q11.2DS; negative and cognitive symptoms correlated negatively with recognition of Sadness, Surprise, and Disgust.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Patients with 22q11.2DS show impairments of both peripheral and central steps of the emotional recognition process, leading to SC deficits. The latter are present regardless of the presence of a full-blown psychosis.}, }
@article {pmid35338240, year = {2022}, author = {Ditz, HM and Fechner, J and Nieder, A}, title = {Cell-type specific pallial circuits shape categorical tuning responses in the crow telencephalon.}, journal = {Communications biology}, volume = {5}, number = {1}, pages = {269}, pmid = {35338240}, issn = {2399-3642}, support = {Ni 618/11-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; }, mesh = {Action Potentials/physiology ; Animals ; Cognition/physiology ; *Crows ; Mammals ; Neurons/physiology ; Telencephalon ; }, abstract = {The nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL), an integration centre in the telencephalon of birds, plays a crucial role in representing and maintaining abstract categories and concepts. However, the computational principles allowing pallial microcircuits consisting of excitatory and inhibitory neurons to shape the tuning to abstract categories remain elusive. Here we identified the major pallial cell types, putative excitatory projection cells and inhibitory interneurons, by characterizing the waveforms of action potentials recorded in crows performing a cognitively demanding numerical categorization task. Both cell types showed clear differences in their capacity to encode categorical information. Nearby and functionally coupled putative projection neurons generally exhibited similar tuning, whereas putative interneurons showed mainly opposite tuning. The results favour feedforward mechanisms for the shaping of categorical tuning in microcircuits of the NCL. Our findings help to decipher the workings of pallial microcircuits in birds during complex cognition and to compare them vis-a-vis neocortical processes in mammals.}, }
@article {pmid35335628, year = {2022}, author = {Verma, AK and Kumar, M and Murugkar, HV and Nagarajan, S and Tosh, C and Namdeo, P and Singh, R and Mishra, S and Kombiah, S and Dhanapal, S and Singh, VP}, title = {Experimental Infection and In-Contact Transmission of H9N2 Avian Influenza Virus in Crows.}, journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {35335628}, issn = {2076-0817}, support = {OXX01585//Indian Council of Agricultural Research/ ; }, abstract = {This study aimed to investigate the potential of H9N2 avian influenza virus to cause disease and intra-species transmission in house crows (Corvus splendens). A group of six crows were intranasally inoculated with 10[6.0] EID50 of H9N2 virus (A/chicken/India/07OR17/2021), and 24 h post-inoculation six naïve crows were co-housed with infected crows. Crows were observed for 14 days for any overt signs of illness. Oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs were collected up to 14 days to assess virus excretion. No apparent clinical signs were observed in either infected or in-contact crows. Virus excretion was observed only in infected birds up to 9 days post-infection (dpi) through both oropharyngeal and cloacal routes. All six infected crows seroconverted to H9N2 virus at 14 dpi, whereas all in-contact crows remained negative to H9N2 virus antibodies. No virus could be isolated from tissues viz., lung, liver, kidney, pancreas, small intestine and large intestine. Although crows became infected with the H9N2 virus, transmission of the virus was inefficient to the in-contact group. However, virus excretion through oral and cloacal swabs from infected crows suggests a potential threat for inter-species transmission, including humans. Crows, being a common synanthrope species, might have some role in influenza virus transmission to poultry and humans, which needs to be explored further.}, }
@article {pmid35331241, year = {2022}, author = {Valkiūnas, G and Duc, M and Iezhova, TA}, title = {Increase of avian Plasmodium circumflexum prevalence, but not of other malaria parasites and related haemosporidians in northern Europe during the past 40 years.}, journal = {Malaria journal}, volume = {21}, number = {1}, pages = {105}, pmid = {35331241}, issn = {1475-2875}, mesh = {Animals ; *Haemosporida ; Humans ; *Parasites ; *Passeriformes ; *Plasmodium/genetics ; Prevalence ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Malaria is a health problem not only in human and veterinary medicine, but also in wildlife. Several theoretical studies have suggested that avian malaria transmission might be increasing in Europe. However, there are few direct empirical observations. Research on the distribution of avian haemosporidian parasites was initiated around the Curonian Lagoon, Europe in 1976 and continues since. This has provided an opportunity to compare the prevalence and diversity of avian malaria parasites (genus Plasmodium) and related haemosporidians (genera Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon) in the same bird species using similar methodology but examined in two groups 40 years apart. This study aimed to describe and discuss the available data on this subject.<br><br>METHODS: Prevalence and diversity of haemosporidians was compared in two passeriform bird groups, which consisted of the same species that were sampled on the coast of the Curonian Lagoon (Russia, Lithuania) during the same season (September) in 1978-1983 (bird Group 1) and 2020 (bird Group 2). Blood films of the European robin, Coal tit, Great tit, Eurasian wren, and Eurasian jay were screened by microscopic examination. Parasites were identified using morphological characters of blood stages. PCR-based methods were applied to determine genetic lineages of the parasites found in birds of Group 2.<br><br>RESULTS: No difference was discernible in the prevalence or diversity of haemosporidian parasites belonging to Haemoproteus, Leucocytozoon, Plasmodium (Haemamoeba) and Plasmodium (Novyella) between birds of Groups 1 and 2. This indicates a similar rate of transmission and relatively stable epidemiological situation in regard of these infections during the past 40&#xa0;years. The prevalence of only one malaria parasite species, Plasmodium (Giovannolaia) circumflexum, increased remarkably, but only in Coal tit, Great tit, and Eurasian wren, with no significant prevalence change in European robin and Eurasian jay.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Plasmodium circumflexum is spreading and seems to be a new invasive avian malaria pathogen in countries with cold climates. The exceptionally high prevalence of P. circumflexum in birds breeding in relatively close-nests suggests an important role of the nesting biology related to bird-vector interaction in this pathogen transmission. The epidemiological situation seems to be relatively stable in regard of other studied avian hosts and haemosporidian parasites in northern Europe.}, }
@article {pmid35315161, year = {2022}, author = {Cheek, RG and Forester, BR and Salerno, PE and Trumbo, DR and Langin, KM and Chen, N and Scott Sillett, T and Morrison, SA and Ghalambor, CK and Chris Funk, W}, title = {Habitat-linked genetic variation supports microgeographic adaptive divergence in an island-endemic bird species.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {31}, number = {10}, pages = {2830-2846}, pmid = {35315161}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; Ecosystem ; Gene Flow ; Genetic Variation ; Genetics, Population ; *Genome-Wide Association Study ; Humans ; Male ; *Passeriformes/genetics ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {We investigated the potential mechanisms driving habitat-linked genetic divergence within a bird species endemic to a single 250-km[2] island. The island scrub-jay (Aphelocoma insularis) exhibits microgeographic divergence in bill morphology across pine-oak ecotones on Santa Cruz Island, California (USA), similar to adaptive differences described in mainland congeners over much larger geographic scales. To test whether individuals exhibit genetic differentiation related to habitat type and divergence in bill length, we genotyped over 3000 single nucleotide polymorphisms in 123 adult island scrub-jay males from across Santa Cruz Island using restriction site-associated DNA sequencing. Neutral landscape genomic analyses revealed that genome-wide genetic differentiation was primarily related to geographic distance and differences in habitat composition. We also found 168 putatively adaptive loci associated with habitat type using multivariate redundancy analysis while controlling for spatial effects. Finally, two genome-wide association analyses revealed a polygenic basis to variation in bill length with multiple loci detected in or near genes known to affect bill morphology in other birds. Our findings support the hypothesis that divergent selection at microgeographic scales can cause adaptive divergence in the presence of ongoing gene flow.}, }
@article {pmid35315058, year = {2022}, author = {Wampole, EM and Gerber, BD and Farris, ZJ and Razafimahaimodison, JC and Andrianarisoa, MH and Ralazampirenena, CJ and Wright, PC and Rasamisoa, CD and Gibson, D and Tobler, MW and Eppley, TM and Vasey, N and Johnson, SE and Filla, C and Valenta, K and Ross, P and Murphy, A and Karpanty, SM and Kelly, MJ and Anderson, C and Cardinal, C and Donati, G and Razafy, P and Rafaliarison, R and Rasambainarivo, F and Razafindramanana, J and Merson, SD and Larney, E}, title = {Madagascar Terrestrial Camera Survey Database 2021: A collation of protected forest camera surveys from 2007-2021.}, journal = {Ecology}, volume = {103}, number = {6}, pages = {e3687}, doi = {10.1002/ecy.3687}, pmid = {35315058}, issn = {1939-9170}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biodiversity ; Birds ; *Forests ; Humans ; Madagascar/epidemiology ; Mammals ; Swine ; }, abstract = {Madagascar is a threatened global biodiversity hotspot and conservation priority, yet we lack broad-scale surveys to assess biodiversity across space and time. To fill this gap, we collated camera trap surveys, capturing species occurrences within Madagascar into a single standardized database. This data set includes nine distinct protected areas of Madagascar and encompasses 13 subprojects, 38 camera arrays, and 1156 sampling units (independent camera site per survey) within two important biodiversity eco-regions: western dry deciduous forest and eastern humid rainforest. Camera surveys were conducted from June 2007 to January 2021. The final data set includes 17 unique families of mammals (Bovidae, Canidae, Cheirogaleidae, Daubentoniidae, Equidae, Eupleridae, Felidae, Hominidae, Indriidae, Lemuridae, Lepilemuridae, Muridae, Nesomyidae, Pteropodidae, Soricidae, Suidae, Tenrecidae) comprising 45 species and 27 unique families of birds (Accipitridae, Acrocephalidae, Alcedinidae, Bernieridae, Brachypteraciidae, Caprimulgidae, Cisticolidae, Columbidae, Coraciidae, Corvidae, Cuculidae, Dicruridae, Mesitornithidae, Monarchidae, Motacillidae, Muscicapidae, Numididae, Phasianidae, Rallidae, Sarothruridae, Strigidae, Sturnidae, Sulidae, Threskiornithidae, Upupidae, Vangidae, Zosteropidae) comprising 58 species. Images were processed and verified by individual project data set creators and camera operation and species tables were then collated. The final product represents the first broad-scale freely available standardized formal faunal database for Madagascar. Data are available through this publication and at DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.5801806. These data will be useful for examining species-level and community-level trends in occurrence across space or time within Madagascar and globally, evaluating native and invasive species dynamics, and will aid in determining species conservation status and planning for at-risk species. There are no copyright restrictions; please cite this paper when using the data for publication.}, }
@article {pmid35308384, year = {2022}, author = {Boostrom, I and Portal, EAR and Spiller, OB and Walsh, TR and Sands, K}, title = {Comparing Long-Read Assemblers to Explore the Potential of a Sustainable Low-Cost, Low-Infrastructure Approach to Sequence Antimicrobial Resistant Bacteria With Oxford Nanopore Sequencing.}, journal = {Frontiers in microbiology}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {796465}, pmid = {35308384}, issn = {1664-302X}, support = {MR/S013768/2/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {Long-read sequencing (LRS) can resolve repetitive regions, a limitation of short read (SR) data. Reduced cost and instrument size has led to a steady increase in LRS across diagnostics and research. Here, we re-basecalled FAST5 data sequenced between 2018 and 2021 and analyzed the data in relation to gDNA across a large dataset (n = 200) spanning a wide GC content (25-67%). We examined whether re-basecalled data would improve the hybrid assembly, and, for a smaller cohort, compared long read (LR) assemblies in the context of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes and mobile genetic elements. We included a cost analysis when comparing SR and LR instruments. We compared the R9 and R10 chemistries and reported not only a larger yield but increased read quality with R9 flow cells. There were often discrepancies with ARG presence/absence and/or variant detection in LR assemblies. Flye-based assemblies were generally efficient at detecting the presence of ARG on both the chromosome and plasmids. Raven performed more quickly but inconsistently recovered small plasmids, notably a ∼15-kb Col-like plasmid harboring bla KPC . Canu assemblies were the most fragmented, with genome sizes larger than expected. LR assemblies failed to consistently determine multiple copies of the same ARG as identified by the Unicycler reference. Even with improvements to ONT chemistry and basecalling, long-read assemblies can lead to misinterpretation of data. If LR data are currently being relied upon, it is necessary to perform multiple assemblies, although this is resource (computing) intensive and not yet readily available/useable.}, }
@article {pmid35302039, year = {2022}, author = {Bravo, C and Sarasa, M and Bretagnolle, V and Pays, O}, title = {Detectability and predator strategy affect egg depredation rates: Implications for mitigating nest depredation in farmlands.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {829}, number = {}, pages = {154558}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154558}, pmid = {35302039}, issn = {1879-1026}, mesh = {Animals ; Farms ; *Nesting Behavior ; *Passeriformes ; Predatory Behavior ; }, abstract = {Predation is a major evolutionary force in animal ecology. Mechanisms by which prey coloration provides camouflage has been widely studied. However, predator response to prey camouflage and concealment has received less attention. Understanding vegetation structure effect on depredation success could help managers design strategies to mitigate the depredation of managed species (e.g., threatened or hunted). We aimed to investigate the relationship between depredation rate, nest camouflage and concealment in ground-nesting birds of farmlands, and their predators. We set up an experiment of 2576 artificial ground nests to assess the role of egg coloration (white, light green, and dark green), egg size (small, medium, and large), and vegetation structure (vegetation height and land use) in nest survival rates. We also explored the role of predator searching strategies by analysing clumped depredation and multiple depredation events. Of the nests, 34.0% were depredated, with corvids as the predators 78.5% of the time. Corvid depredation decreased by 40-60% in grasslands and spring crops above a vegetation height of 30 cm. In contrast, vegetation height and land use may be of far less importance in avoiding depredation by other predators. The probability of depredation was spatially clumped, suggesting that predators increase search effort in areas where a nest was previously encountered. Neighboring depredation and depredation repetition were more frequent in corvids than in other predators. Our study indicates that nests in vegetation higher than 30 cm had a drastic reduction in depredation rates by corvids. Management of vegetation structure is a key tool to mitigate depredation risk, and improving the availability of alternative food resources may be a complementary tool.}, }
@article {pmid35298198, year = {2022}, author = {Murillo, L}, title = {Harvey Schlossberg (1936-2021).}, journal = {The American psychologist}, volume = {77}, number = {5}, pages = {718}, doi = {10.1037/amp0000997}, pmid = {35298198}, issn = {1935-990X}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; New York ; *Police ; Universities ; *Violence ; }, abstract = {Memorializes Harvey Schlossberg (1936-2021). Author of Psychologist With a Gun (1974), Schlossberg was the first New York Police Department (NYPD) police officer with a PhD in psychology, and a pioneer in police psychology. With the help of two other patrolmen, he developed a program that would evaluate the recruits who entered the Police Academy. He was featured in the 1999 documentary "The Sons of Sam: A Decent into Darkness" in which David Berkowitz was investigated by the NYPD and Schlossberg helped solve the crime. By 1974, Schlossberg began teaching at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. After leaving the NYPD in 1978, he served as chief Psychologist for the police department in Rye, New York (1988-1994), and for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (1990-1999). He continued to expand the Psychological Services for the NYPD and pioneered treatment for violence-prone police. Schlossberg passed away peacefully on May 21, 2021. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid35287378, year = {2022}, author = {Dida, H and Charif, F and Benchabane, A}, title = {Registration of computed tomography images of a lung infected with COVID-19 based in the new meta-heuristic algorithm HPSGWO.}, journal = {Multimedia tools and applications}, volume = {81}, number = {13}, pages = {18955-18976}, pmid = {35287378}, issn = {1380-7501}, abstract = {Computed tomography (CT) helps the radiologist in the rapid and correct detection of a person infected with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and this by showing the presence of the ground-glass opacity in the lung of with the virus. Tracking the evolution of the spread of the ground-glass opacity (GGO) in the lung of the person infected with the virus needs to study more than one image in different times. The various CT images must be registration to identify the evolution of the ground glass in the lung and to facilitate the study and identification of the virus. Due to the process of registration images is essentially an improvement problem, we present in this paper a new HPSGWO algorithm for registration CT images of a lung infected with the COVID-19. This algorithm is a hybridization of the two algorithms Particle swarm optimization (PSO) and Grey wolf optimizer (GWO). The simulation results obtained after applying the algorithm to the test images show that the proposed approach achieved high-precision and robust registration compared to other methods such as GWO, PSO, Firefly Algorithm (FA), and Crow Searcha Algorithms (CSA).}, }
@article {pmid35270106, year = {2022}, author = {Aboelkassem, A and Alzamel, NM and Alzain, MN and Loutfy, N}, title = {Effect of Pb-Contaminated Water on Ludwigia stolonifera (Guill. &amp; Perr.) P.H. Raven Physiology and Phytoremediation Performance.}, journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, pmid = {35270106}, issn = {2223-7747}, abstract = {A laboratory experiment was led to examine the lead bioaccumulation capacity of Ludwigia stolonifera (Guill. &amp; Perr.) exposed to various Pb concentrations (0, 10, 25, 50, and 100 mg/L) for 1, 3, 5, and 7 days. The lead accumulation increased as the metal concentrations in the solution increased and over time, to an extreme accretion of 6840 mg/kg DW(dry weight) at 100 mg/L of lead on the 10 days exposure. The proportion removal efficiency, translocation factor, and bioconcentration factor of the plant were assessed. The maximum bioconcentration factor values (1981.13) indicate that the plant was a Pb hyperaccumulator, and translocation factor values (1.85), which are >1, indicate fit of L. stolonifera for eliminating Pb in Pb-contaminated water. Photosynthetic pigments were decreased with increase of Pb concentration and time exposure. Total chlorophyll content and Chl a/b ratio lowered to between 46 and 62% at 100 mg/L Pb after 10 days exposure. Protein content and soluble carbohydrate indicated a similar trend, which showed the highest decrease (7.26 and 36.2 mg/g FW(fresh weight), respectively) at 100 mg/L of Pb after 10 days. The activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, ascorbate, and peroxidase was increased significantly in comparison to the control. The results indicate that L. stolonifera is a newly recognized Pb hyperaccumulator (6840 mg/kg DW), but physiological status indicates that the plant is not tolerant to high Pb concentrations.}, }
@article {pmid35262199, year = {2022}, author = {Cogni, R and Quental, TB and Guimarães, PR}, title = {Ehrlich and Raven escape and radiate coevolution hypothesis at different levels of organization: Past and future perspectives.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {76}, number = {6}, pages = {1108-1123}, doi = {10.1111/evo.14456}, pmid = {35262199}, issn = {1558-5646}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; *Crows ; }, abstract = {The classic paper by Ehrlich and Raven on coevolution will soon be 60 years old. Although they were not the first to develop the idea of coevolution, their thought-provoking paper certainly popularized this idea and inspired several generations of scientists interested in coevolution. Here, we describe some of their main contributions, quantitatively measure the impact of their seminal paper on different fields of research, and discuss how ideas related to their original paper might push the study of coevolution forward. To guide our discussion, we explore their original hypothesis into three research fields that are associated with distinct scales/levels of organization: (1) the genetic mechanisms underlying coevolutionary interactions; (2) the potential association between coevolutionary diversification and the organization of ecological networks; and (3) the micro- and macroevolutionary mechanisms and expected patterns under their hypothesis. By doing so, we discuss potentially overlooked aspects and future directions for the study of coevolutionary dynamics and diversification.}, }
@article {pmid35255297, year = {2022}, author = {González, R and Rojas, M and Rosselli, M and Ardila, A}, title = {Linguistic profiles of variants of primary progressive aphasia.}, journal = {Journal of communication disorders}, volume = {97}, number = {}, pages = {106202}, doi = {10.1016/j.jcomdis.2022.106202}, pmid = {35255297}, issn = {1873-7994}, mesh = {Aged ; *Aphasia, Primary Progressive/diagnosis ; Comprehension ; Female ; Humans ; Language ; Language Tests ; Male ; Semantics ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Several subtypes of primary progressive aphasia (PPA) have been proposed. Most reports use small samples, and few have included Spanish-speaking participants.<br><br>AIM: To analyze the language profile and nonlinguistic deficits in a large sample of PPA Spanish monolingual participants.<br><br>METHOD: 177 individuals were diagnosed with PPA in a sample consisting of 69 men and 108 women (Mage&#xa0;=&#xa0;66.40 years, SD&#xa0;=&#xa0;9.30). The participants were assessed using the Spanish versions of the Western Aphasia Battery Revised (SWAB-R) and the Boston Diagnostic Aphasia Examination (SBDAE). Non-verbal reasoning was evaluated with the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: 41.8% of the sample met the criteria for the logopenic variant (lvPPA), while 28.2% met the criteria for semantic (svPPA), 15.3% for lexical (lxvPPA), and 14.7% for nonfluent/agrammatic (nfvPPA) variants. Language difficulties were similar in all variants except for lxvPPA. Scores on Spontaneous Language, Auditory Comprehension, Repetition, and Naming were significantly higher for the lxvPPA group. Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices scores were significantly lower in lvPPA. Years of education correlated with all test scores, while age was negatively associated with naming. When the PPA variants were classified according to the traditional aphasia classification, discrepancies were evident. Furthermore, the most frequent type of aphasia was Amnesic, while the least frequent was Wernicke's aphasia.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The SWAB-R is useful in describing the clinical characteristics of aphasia for each variant of PPA, but quantitative scores from this battery are not capable of distinguishing between variants of PPA, with the exception of lxvPPA.}, }
@article {pmid35252287, year = {2022}, author = {AlThuneyyan, DA and AlGhamdi, FF and AlZain, RN and AlDhawyan, ZS and Alhmly, HF and Purayidathil, TS and AlGindan, YY and Abdullah, AA}, title = {The Effect of Breastfeeding on Intelligence Quotient and Social Intelligence Among Seven- to Nine-Year-Old Girls: A Pilot Study.}, journal = {Frontiers in nutrition}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {726042}, pmid = {35252287}, issn = {2296-861X}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Breastfeeding is an optimal infant feeding method that provides adequate nutrients, achieves healthy growth and development, and enhances the health status of both infants and mothers. Breast milk contains a variety of substances that might positively affect cognition and the development of children's psychomotor abilities.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the variations in intelligence quotient (IQ), social intelligence (SI), and body mass index (BMI) among 7- to 9-year-old girls who were exclusively breastfed, exclusively bottle-fed, or mixed-fed during their first 6 months of life.<br><br>METHODS: This study involved 111 healthy girls, aged 7 to 9 years, who were recruited from nine government and private schools in Dammam, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices were used to measure the participants' IQs, and the Vineland Social Maturity Assessment was used to measure their SI through individual interviews. Anthropometric measurements were obtained using standard methods.<br><br>RESULTS: The breastfed group showed a greater number of above-average IQ test scores (35 vs. 23%; P = 0.479) and better SI scores (78 vs. 55%; P = 0.066) compared with the bottle-fed group. The number of girls with normal BMIs was significantly higher in the breastfed group than in the bottle-fed (68 vs. 41%; P = 0.045) or mixed-fed groups.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Exclusively breastfed girls had higher IQ and SI results compared with bottle-fed girls. However, unlike the BMI differences, these results were not statistically significant. This study provides fundamental observational data and can be further modified for use on a larger national-scale level.}, }
@article {pmid35250890, year = {2022}, author = {Yu, X and Jiang, Y and Li, Y and He, Q and Pan, L and Zhu, P and Wang, Y and Wang, P}, title = {Comparison of Different Mandibular Jawlines Classifications on Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy for Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma: Experiences of 690 Cases.}, journal = {Frontiers in endocrinology}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {842148}, pmid = {35250890}, issn = {1664-2392}, mesh = {Humans ; *Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery/adverse effects ; Retrospective Studies ; Thyroid Cancer, Papillary/etiology/surgery ; *Thyroid Neoplasms/pathology ; Thyroidectomy/adverse effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The influences of patients' different mandibular jawlines on transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy via vestibular approach (TOETVA) have not been described before. The objective of this study was to introduce a new classification to assess different mandibular jawlines, and to evaluate the effects on TOETVA in terms of safety, feasibility, and postoperative feelings in the treatment of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC).<br><br>METHODS: The crossing angle of esthetic plane and mandibular plane was defined as Wang Angle, used to assess patients' different mandibular jawlines. Mandibular classifications of A (angle: 80&#xb0; ~ 110&#xb0;), B (angle > 110&#xb0;), and C (angle < 80&#xb0;) types were compared to evaluate the surgical outcomes of TOETVA by a retrospective study. 690 patients of PTC who received TOETVA were included in this study, which were divided into three groups according to mandibular classifications.<br><br>RESULTS: Clinicopathological characteristics of the patients including age, gender, body mass index, tumor size, Hashimoto thyroiditis were similar in the three groups. Patients' length of jay in group C was significantly longer than group A and group B (P < 0.01). The ratios of using suspension system in group C were significantly higher than group A and group B (P < 0.01). The scores of postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) and ratios of mandibular swell in group C were significantly higher than group A and group B (P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in the three groups regarding surgical outcomes, including postoperative vocal cord paralysis, hypocalcemia, serum white blood cells and C-reactive protein levels.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The Wang angle and mandibular jawline classifications were firstly introduced in TOETVA. All the patients of class A, B, and C mandibular jawline can achieve safe and effective surgical outcomes in the treatment of PTC with TOETVA. Patients of class C need more assistance of suspension system, would experience higher scores of VAS, and higher ratios of mandibular swell compared with class A and B.}, }
@article {pmid35250755, year = {2022}, author = {Nittono, H and Ohashi, A and Komori, M}, title = {Creation and Validation of the Japanese Cute Infant Face (JCIF) Dataset.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {819428}, pmid = {35250755}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Research interest in cuteness perception and its effects on subsequent behavior and physiological responses has recently been increasing. The purpose of the present study was to produce a dataset of Japanese infant faces that are free of portrait rights and can be used for cuteness research. A total of 80 original facial images of 6-month-old infants were collected from their parents. The cuteness level of each picture was rated on a 7-point scale by 200 Japanese people (100 men and 100 women in their 20s-60s). Prototypical high- and low-cuteness faces were created by averaging the top 10 and bottom 10 faces according to the mean cuteness ratings. Then, 50 composite faces were made by mixing two faces randomly chosen from the 60 unused middle-cuteness faces. The normative cuteness ratings of these composite faces were obtained from 229 Japanese men and women in their 20s-60s. The shape of each composite face was transformed to be cuter (+50%) or less cute (-50%) along a continuum between the high- and low-cuteness prototypical faces. A two-alternative forced-choice task (N = 587) confirmed that cuteness discrimination was better than the chance level for all 50 face pairs. Moreover, the results showed that young men had poorer sensitivity to cuteness differences in infant faces than older men and women of any age. This Japanese Cute Infant Face (JCIF, "jay-sif") dataset, including composite face images and normative rating scores, is publicly available online.}, }
@article {pmid35238601, year = {2022}, author = {Kroupin, IG and Carey, SE}, title = {The importance of inference in relational reasoning: Relational matching as a case study.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. General}, volume = {151}, number = {1}, pages = {224-245}, doi = {10.1037/xge0001068}, pmid = {35238601}, issn = {1939-2222}, support = {//James S. McDonnell Foundation/ ; //Harvard University/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Concept Formation ; Humans ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {Nonhuman animals and preschoolers struggle with Relational-Match-to-Sample (RMTS), a classic test of the capacity for second-order relational, analogical, and reasoning. These failures are often explained by limitations in representational or computational capacities. Drawing on recent evidence for robust spontaneous RMTS success (i.e., without error-feedback) in crows and parrots after minimal second-order training, we present five experiments with human adults consistent with the possibility that population differences sometimes instead derive from differences in inductive biases alone. Experiment 1 confirms human adults have the capacities and requisite representations to succeed spontaneously on RMTS. Experiments 2-5 utilize a modified RMTS task in which adults make relational matches only about half of the time. Experiment 3 tests whether eight trials of various MTS tasks, nonsecond-order training featured in the aforementioned comparative studies, can increase spontaneous second-order relational responding in human adults. Two of the MTS tasks (Number, Size MTS) do so, demonstrating that MTS training can, in fact, increase relational responding by changing inductive biases alone. The other MTS tasks (Identity, Color MTS) do not do so, evidence that the facilitating effect is not a result of matching involved in MTS per se. Experiments 4 and 5 test one hypothesized mechanism by which specifically Number/Size MTS tasks may have led to increased relational responding, that is, by inhibiting preexisting biases to match on shape and/or color, making relational matches relatively more likely. We close by discussing the importance of research into inductive biases to the project of understanding relational reasoning. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid37377487, year = {2022}, author = {Notter, IR and Logan, JR}, title = {Residential Segregation under Jim Crow: Whites, Blacks, and Mulattoes in Southern Cities, 1880-1920.}, journal = {City &amp; community}, volume = {21}, number = {1}, pages = {42-61}, pmid = {37377487}, issn = {1535-6841}, support = {P2C HD041020/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HD049493/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R24 HD041020/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {We study the residential patterns of blacks and mulattoes in 10 Southern cities in 1880 and 1920. researchers have documented the salience of social differences among African Americans in this period, partly related to mulattoes' higher occupational status. Did these differences result in clustering of these two groups in different neighborhoods, and were mulattoes less separated from whites? If so, did the differences diminish in these decades after reconstruction due a Jim Crow system that did not distinguish between blacks and mulattoes? We use geocoded census microdata for 1880 and 1920 to address these questions. Segregation between whites and both blacks and mulattoes was already high in 1880, especially at a fine spatial scale, and it increased sharply by 1920. In this respect, whites did not distinguish between these two groups. However, blacks and mulattoes were quite segregated from one another in 1880, and even more so by 1920. this pattern did not result from mulattoes' moderately higher-class position. Hence, as the color line between whites and all non-whites was becoming harder, blacks and mulattoes were separating further from each other. understanding what led to this pattern remains a key question about racial identities and racialization in the early twentieth century.}, }
@article {pmid37283849, year = {2022}, author = {Ruef, M}, title = {Racial Segregation under Slavery.}, journal = {Social forces; a scientific medium of social study and interpretation}, volume = {100}, number = {3}, pages = {935-960}, pmid = {37283849}, issn = {0037-7732}, support = {P2C HD065563/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Social demographers and historians have devoted extensive research to patterns of racial segregation that emerged under Jim Crow and during the post-Civil Rights era but have paid less attention to the role of slavery in shaping the residential distribution of Black populations in the United States. One guiding assumption has been that slavery rendered racial segregation to be both unnecessary and impractical. In this study, I argue that apart from the master-slave relationship, slavery relentlessly produced racial segregation during the antebellum period through the residential isolation of slaves and free people of color. To explain this pattern, I draw on racial threat theory to test hypotheses regarding interracial economic competition and fear of slave mobilization using data from the 1850 Census, as well as an architectural survey of antebellum sites. Findings suggest that the residential segregation of free people of color increased with their local prevalence, whereas the segregation of slaves increased with the prevalence of the slave population. These patterns continue to hold after controlling for interracial competition over land or jobs and past slave rebellions or conspiracies.}, }
@article {pmid35225922, year = {2022}, author = {Antoniou, F and Alkhadim, G and Mouzaki, A and Simos, P}, title = {A Psychometric Analysis of Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices: Evaluating Guessing and Carelessness Using the 4PL Item Response Theory Model.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {35225922}, issn = {2079-3200}, support = {TURSP-2020/334//Taif University/ ; }, abstract = {The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of Raven's colored progressive matrices by estimating the presence of pseudo-guessing and pseudo-carelessness. Participants were 1127 children from ages 5 to 11. Guessing and carelessness were assessed using the lower and upper asymptotes of the 3PL and 4PL item response theory (IRT) models, respectively. Optimal model fit was judged using difference loglikelihood tests and information criteria. Results indicated that guessing, but not carelessness, were evident in the AB and B forms of the CPM, with successful guessing being more prevalent in the AB form. It is concluded that nonverbal IQ estimation in CPM should include variable estimation methods so that aptitude scores are estimated with the highest possible accuracy.}, }
@article {pmid35201636, year = {2022}, author = {Abdel Maksoud, MKM and Ibrahim, AAH and Nabil, TM and Moawad, UK}, title = {Histomorphological, histochemical and scanning electron microscopic investigation of the proventriculus (Ventriculus glandularis) of the hooded crow (Corvus cornix).}, journal = {Anatomia, histologia, embryologia}, volume = {51}, number = {3}, pages = {380-389}, doi = {10.1111/ahe.12798}, pmid = {35201636}, issn = {1439-0264}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Electrons ; Female ; Gizzard, Avian/anatomy &amp; histology ; Male ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning/veterinary ; *Proventriculus/anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {The current investigation aimed to clarify the histomorphological features, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and histochemistry of the proventriculus in the adult hooded crow (Corvus cornix). Twenty-two adult birds of both sexes were collected from El-Fayoum and Beni-Suef governorates, Egypt; ten were used for anatomical investigation, two were scanned using SEM, and ten were subjected to routine histological technique. The obtained anatomical results revealed a small-sized spindle-shaped proventriculus obliquely located in the left ventral part of the body cavity with an average body weight, length and diameter of 1.689 ± 0.231 gm, 1.54 ± 0.383cm and 3.51 ± 0.416cm, respectively. The histological examination revealed a typical tubular organ. The mucosa exhibited several plicae and sulci that were lined with simple columnar cells. The lamina propria was composed of collagenous connective tissue infiltrated by lymphocytes, lymphatic aggregations and tubular glands. The submucosa consisted of collagenic fibres and compound tubuloalveolar glandular lobules lined with oxynticopeptic cells and enteroendocrine cells. The oxynticopeptic cells reacted negatively with PAS and Alcian Blue stains, whereas the ductal cells reacted positively with PAS only. Enteroendocrine cells were seen singly in the lamina epithelialis mucosae and were abundant in submucosal glands. The tunica musclaris was arranged in two layers covered by serosa. The proventricular glands' openings were noticed by SEM as raised tubes with regular circular outlines surrounded by anastomosed microscopic folds. The obtained histomorphological structure of the hooded crow's proventriculus revealed some shared morphological features with most species of birds and some variations that might be attributed to their diet and feeding behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid35185662, year = {2021}, author = {Leniarska, M and Zajenkowski, M}, title = {Why Narcissism Reduces Distress: The Consequences of Narcissistic Intellectual Self-Confidence.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {668257}, pmid = {35185662}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between grandiose narcissism and the feeling of distress. We referred to the narcissistic admiration and rivalry model. We hypothesized that people with high narcissistic admiration would experience less distress and fear and that intellectual self-confidence would account for this relationship. We examined two dimensions of grandiose narcissism using Narcissistic Admiration and Rivalry Questionnaire, self-assessed intelligence, and various aspects of distress in two studies. In Study 1 (N = 170), we assessed distress (with the Dundee Stress State Questionnaire), related to performance in an intelligence test (Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices), and in Study 2 (N = 258) we measured fear related to the COVID-19 pandemic. In both studies, narcissistic admiration was inversely related to distress/fear, and this relationship was fully mediated by self-assessed intelligence. Narcissistic rivalry was unrelated to both distress and self-assessed intelligence. These findings emphasize the importance of self-views related to intelligence for those with high narcissistic admiration. In particular, intellectual self- confidence plays an important role in reducing distress among narcissists.}, }
@article {pmid35182942, year = {2022}, author = {Jacob, M and Stotesbury, H and Kija, E and Saunders, D and Mtei, RJ and Tutuba, H and Masanu, U and Kilonzo, M and Kazema, R and Hood, AM and Kirkham, F and Dimitriou, D and Makani, J}, title = {Effect of age, cerebral infarcts, vasculopathy and haemoglobin on cognitive function, in Tanzanian children with sickle cell anaemia.}, journal = {European journal of paediatric neurology : EJPN : official journal of the European Paediatric Neurology Society}, volume = {37}, number = {}, pages = {105-113}, doi = {10.1016/j.ejpn.2022.01.010}, pmid = {35182942}, issn = {1532-2130}, mesh = {Adolescent ; *Anemia, Sickle Cell/complications/diagnostic imaging ; Cerebral Infarction/complications/etiology ; Child ; Cognition ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Hemoglobins ; Humans ; Tanzania ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Developmental difficulties in many cognitive domains are common in children with sickle cell anaemia (SCA). Children with stroke are most affected but delayed or atypical cognitive function has been reported in children with SCA and silent infarcts (SCI), vasculopathy, and normal brain MRI. However, very few studies of cognition have been conducted in Africa, a continent with 75% of the SCA burden. We therefore investigated cognitive profiles in Tanzanian children with SCA and examined the impact of age, SCI, vasculopathy, and haemoglobin concentration (Hb).<br><br>METHODS: Children aged 6-16 years with and without SCA were eligible for this cross-sectional study. Cognitive assessment was performed using Raven's Matrices, assessing fluid, non-verbal intelligence and subtests from the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children (WISC-IV), assessing processing speed (PS), perceptual reasoning (PR), and working memory (WM) as these tests are less culture-bound. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and angiography (MRA) were also completed to assess the presence of SCI and vasculopathy. Hb was collected in both SCA children and their non-SCA siblings.<br><br>RESULTS: Seventy-three children with SCA and 71 healthy siblings (Meanages 11.9, SD&#xa0;=&#xa0;2.8 and 11.1, SD&#xa0;=&#xa0;2.9 years respectively) were recruited. Compared with healthy siblings, children with SCA had lower PS (Meandiff 7.35 points; p&#xa0;=&#xa0;.002). Older children had higher performance scores on all tests in relation to their ages. Lowest cognitive scores were observed on the PS subtest, where patients with SCI (SCI+) had lowest mean values as compared to children with no SCI (SCI-) and healthy siblings (i.e., SCI+&#xa0;<&#xa0;SCI-&#xa0;<&#xa0;healthy siblings, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;.028). On post-hoc analysis the difference was between SCI+ and healthy siblings SCI+&#xa0;<&#xa0;non-SCA siblings (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;.015); there was no difference between SCI+ and SCI- patient groups. PS was significantly lower in SCA patients with no vasculopathy as compared to healthy siblings. The mean difference from healthy siblings was -8.352 and -0.752 points for VASC- and VASC&#xa0;+&#xa0;respectively (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;.004). There was a significant positive effect of Hb on PSI (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;.001) in both patients and controls and a trend level significant positive effect of Hb on PR (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;.050) and WM (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;.051).<br><br>CONCLUSION: In this Tanzanian study, cognitive performance was reduced in children with SCA with or without SCI on MRI or vasculopathy. Cognitive performance improved with increasing age. Lower Hb was associated with lower cognitive performance in both patients with SCA and their non-SCA siblings. SCI and vasculopathy do not appear to have an impact on cognitive function.}, }
@article {pmid35182937, year = {2022}, author = {Yadav, P and Chang, SX and Cheng, CW and DesRosiers, CM and Mitra, RK and Das, IJ}, title = {Dosimetric evaluation of high-Z inhomogeneity used for hip prosthesis: A multi-institutional collaborative study.}, journal = {Physica medica : PM : an international journal devoted to the applications of physics to medicine and biology : official journal of the Italian Association of Biomedical Physics (AIFB)}, volume = {95}, number = {}, pages = {148-155}, doi = {10.1016/j.ejmp.2022.02.007}, pmid = {35182937}, issn = {1724-191X}, mesh = {Algorithms ; *Hip Prosthesis ; Humans ; Phantoms, Imaging ; Radiometry ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; *Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: A multi-institutional investigation for dosimetric evaluation of high-Z hip prosthetic device in photon beam.<br><br>METHODS: A bilateral hip prosthetic case was chosen. An in-house phantom was built to replicate the human pelvis with two different prostheses. Dosimetric parameters: dose to the target and organs at risk (OARs) were compared for the clinical case generated by various treatment planning system (TPS) with varied algorithms. Single beam plans with different TPS for phantom using 6 MV and 15 MV photon beams with and without density correction were compared with measurement.<br><br>RESULTS: Wide variations in target and OAR dosimetry were recorded for different TPS. For clinical case ideal PTV coverage was noted for plans generated with Corvus and Prowess TPS only. However, none of the TPS were able to meet plan objective for the bladder. Good correlation was noticed for the measured and the Pinnacle TPS for corrected dose calculation at the interfaces as well as the dose ratio in elsewhere. On comparing measured and calculated dose, the difference across the TPS varied from -20% to 60% for 6 MV and 3% to 50% for the 15 MV, respectively.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Most TPS do not provide accurate dosimetry with high-Z prosthesis. It is important to check the TPS under extreme conditions of beams passing through the high-Z region. Metal artifact reduction algorithms may reduce the difference between the measured and calculated dose but still significant differences exist. Further studies are required to validate the calculational accuracy.}, }
@article {pmid35179665, year = {2022}, author = {Bisazza, A and Santacà, M}, title = {Zebrafish excel in number discrimination under an operant conditioning paradigm.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {25}, number = {4}, pages = {917-933}, pmid = {35179665}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {DOR grant//Universit&#xe0; degli Studi di Padova/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Conditioning, Operant ; Discrimination Learning ; Female ; Learning ; Male ; *Poecilia ; Vertebrates ; Zebrafish ; }, abstract = {Numerical discrimination is widespread in vertebrates, but this capacity varies enormously between the different species examined. The guppy (Poecilia reticulata), the only teleost examined following procedures that allow a comparison with the other vertebrates, outperforms amphibians, reptiles and many warm-blooded vertebrates, but it is unclear whether this is a feature shared with the other teleosts or represents a peculiarity of this species. We trained zebrafish (Danio rerio) to discriminate between numbers differing by one unit, varying task difficulty from 2 versus 3 to 5 versus 6 items. Non-numerical variables that covary with number, such as density or area, did not affect performance. Most fish reached learning criterion on all tasks up to 4 versus 5 discrimination with no sex difference in accuracy. Although no individual reached learning criterion in the 5 versus 6 task, performance was significant at the group level, suggesting that this may represent the discrimination threshold for zebrafish. Numerosity discrimination abilities of zebrafish compare to those of guppy, being higher than in some warm-blooded vertebrates, such as dogs, horses and domestic fowl, though lower than in parrots, corvids and primates. Learning rate was similar in a control group trained to discriminate between different-sized shapes, but zebrafish were slightly more accurate when discriminating areas than numbers and males were more accurate than females. At the end of the experiment, fish trained on numbers and controls trained on areas generalized to the reciprocal set of stimuli, indicating they had used a relational strategy to solve these tasks.}, }
@article {pmid35169186, year = {2022}, author = {McCune, KB and Valente, JJ and Jablonski, PG and Lee, SI and Ha, RR}, title = {Social behavior mediates the use of social and personal information in wild jays.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {2494}, pmid = {35169186}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/*psychology ; Association Learning/physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cues ; Ecosystem ; Female ; Male ; Memory/physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Social Environment ; *Social Evolution ; Social Learning/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The factors favoring the evolution of certain cognitive abilities in animals remain unclear. Social learning is a cognitive ability that reduces the cost of acquiring personal information and forms the foundation for cultural behavior. Theory predicts the evolutionary pressures to evolve social learning should be greater in more social species. However, research testing this theory has primarily occurred in captivity, where artificial environments can affect performance and yield conflicting results. We compared the use of social and personal information, and the social learning mechanisms used by wild, asocial California scrub-jays and social Mexican jays. We trained demonstrators to solve one door on a multi-door task, then measured the behavior of naïve conspecifics towards the task. If social learning occurs, observations of demonstrators will change the rate that naïve individuals interact with each door. We found both species socially learned, though personal information had a much greater effect on behavior in the asocial species while social information was more important for the social species. Additionally, both species used social information to avoid, rather than copy, conspecifics. Our findings demonstrate that while complex social group structures may be unnecessary for the evolution of social learning, it does affect the use of social versus personal information.}, }
@article {pmid35158664, year = {2022}, author = {Athanasakopoulou, Z and Sofia, M and Giannakopoulos, A and Papageorgiou, K and Chatzopoulos, DC and Spyrou, V and Petridou, E and Petinaki, E and Billinis, C}, title = {ESBL-Producing Moellerella wisconsensis-The Contribution of Wild Birds in the Dissemination of a Zoonotic Pathogen.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {35158664}, issn = {2076-2615}, support = {T2DGE-0944//the European Union and the Greek General Secretariat for Research and Innovation, Ministry of Development &amp; Investments/ ; }, abstract = {Moellerella wisconsensis is an Enterobacteriaceae with unclarified dispersion and pathogenicity. During an ongoing investigation about antimicrobial resistance in Greece, the occurrence of M. wisconsensis was evaluated among wild birds and humans. A total of 445 wild bird and 2000 human fecal samples were collected and screened for the presence of the organism. Subsequently, all M. wisconsensis strains were phenotypically and molecularly characterized regarding their antimicrobial resistance characteristics. Four M. wisconsensis were isolated from a common pheasant (Phasianus colchicus), two Eurasian magpies (Pica pica) and a great white-fronted goose (Anser albifrons). Among these four strains, the three latter presented resistance to 3rd generation cephalosporins, were phenotypically confirmed to produce ESBLs and were found to harbor blaCTX-M-1. The three ESBL isolates additionally exhibited resistance to tetracyclines, while resistance to aminoglycosides was detected in two of them and to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole in one. No Moellerella wisconsensis strains were retrieved from the human samples tested. This is the first report that provides evidence of M. wisconsensis dissemination among wild birds in Greece, describing CTX-M-1 production in multidrug resistant wild birds' isolates of this bacterial species.}, }
@article {pmid35156765, year = {2022}, author = {Hügül, H and Özkoca, D and Kutlubay, Z}, title = {A retrospective analysis of the uses of BoNT-A in daily dermatological practice.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {21}, number = {5}, pages = {1948-1952}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.14845}, pmid = {35156765}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Aged ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; *Cosmetics ; Female ; Humans ; *Hyperhidrosis/diagnosis/drug therapy ; Hypertrophy/drug therapy ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Neuromuscular Agents ; Retrospective Studies ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Botulinum toxin-A (BoNT-A) has been increasingly used in the cosmetic dermatology daily routine. The treatment areas of BoNT-A are glabellar lines, forehead wrinkles, periorbital lines (crow's feet), eyebrow lifting, perioral lines, platysmal bands, masseter hypertrophy, and hyperhidrosis. The aim of this study was to reveal the epidemiologic characteristics of the patients treated with BoNT-A and the frequencies of treatment areas.<br><br>PATIENT AND METHODS: The patients were grouped into five categories: facial wrinkles, platysmal bands, masseter hypertrophy, axillary hyperhidrosis, and palmoplantar hyperhidrosis. Each patient received either onabotulinum toxin-A (diluted with 2&#xa0;cc saline) or abobotulinum toxin-A (diluted with 3&#xa0;cc saline) treatment. The patients' age, gender, and the total numbers of treatment received in each area were noted. SPSS version 21 was used for the statistical analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 1614 patients were included: 165 (6.5%) male and 1509 (93.5%) female. There is no difference between genders in terms of treatment area (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.855). The number of treatment sessions is independent of the patients' gender (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.703). The mean age of the patients was 46.6&#xa0;years. There is a relationship between the patients' age and treatment area (sig 0.000). There is no relationship between the number of repetitive treatments and the patients' age (p=0.081). The number of repetitive treatments is dependent to the treatment area (p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Facial wrinkles, platysmal bands, and masseter hypertrophy are the most commonly treated areas. The treatment area is dependent on the age as platysmal bands are more commonly treated in older patients; however, no relationship between gender and treatment area was found. BoNT-A treatment for hyperhidrosis is not as commonly repeated as for that of cosmetic concerns.}, }
@article {pmid35155058, year = {2023}, author = {Alsaeedi, MAK and Kurnaz, S}, title = {RETRACTED ARTICLE: Feature selection for diagnose coronavirus (COVID-19) disease by neural network and Caledonian crow learning algorithm.}, journal = {Applied nanoscience}, volume = {13}, number = {4}, pages = {3129}, doi = {10.1007/s13204-021-02159-x}, pmid = {35155058}, issn = {2190-5509}, }
@article {pmid35153853, year = {2021}, author = {Yu, Z and Wu, X and Jiang, R and Chen, Y and Shen, Y and Li, C and Feng, W}, title = {Feasibility and Engagement of Multi-domain Cognitive Training in Community-Dwelling Healthy Elderly in Shanghai.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychiatry}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {781050}, pmid = {35153853}, issn = {1664-0640}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In recent years, cognitive training has been one of the important non-pharmaceutical treatment methods that could delay cognitive decline and improve quality of life in the elderly. In different types of cognitive training, both the cognitive domains focused on and their training methods widely vary. This study aimed to explore the feasibility and engagement of multidomain cognitive training in Chinese community-dwelling healthy elderly.<br><br>METHODS: Based on the cluster sampling method, a total of 151 healthy elderly, aged 70 or above, who lived in the neighborhoods in Shanghai met the inclusion criteria and agreed to participate in the study. Among them, 90 participants were assigned to the cognitive training group (intervention group), and 61 were assigned to the no cognitive training group (control group). Participants in the intervention group attended a 1-h multidomain cognitive training course twice a week for 12 weeks (total of 24 times), which targeted memory, reasoning, strategy-based problem-solving skills, etc. The control group did not receive any intervention.<br><br>RESULTS: There was a significant increase in test scores of story recall (t = -8.61, p = 0.00) and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) (t = -10.60, p = 0.00) after in-class interventions. The overall completion of homework was 77.78%. Fifty percent of the 90 participants completed self-training. The top three self-training methods were physical exercise, reading books and newspapers, and watching TV. The overall attendance rate of the intervention group was 76.14%, and more than 50% of them had an attendance rate of 77.8%. The attendance rate was positively correlated with years of education and baseline SF-36 (physical functioning, general health, vitality, and mental health) scores, whereas it was negatively correlated with baseline disease index and fatalism of personality indicators (p < 0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The elderly with higher educational levels and better physical and psychological conditions had a higher engagement in multidomain cognitive training. The training course proved to be rational, feasible, and effective for community-scale application.}, }
@article {pmid35153252, year = {2022}, author = {Seguchi, A and Mogi, K and Izawa, EI}, title = {Measurement of urinary mesotocin in large-billed crows by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {84}, number = {4}, pages = {520-524}, pmid = {35153252}, issn = {1347-7439}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; *Crows ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay/veterinary ; *Oxytocin/analogs &amp; derivatives ; }, abstract = {Mesotocin (MT) is an avian homologue of oxytocin (OT). Behavioral pharmacological studies in birds have suggested the involvement of MT in socially affiliative behavior. However, investigations of peripheral MT levels associated with social behavior are lacking because non-invasive methods to measure surrogate plasma MT have yet to be established. This study aimed to measure urinary MT in crows using a commercially available OT enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Urine samples were collected after intravenous injection of MT and centrifuged to separate urine and fecal components. We found that urinary MT was significantly elevated 15-30 min after MT injection. These results validate our method for the use of urine samples for the measurement of peripheral MT levels in crows.}, }
@article {pmid35149543, year = {2022}, author = {Warmuth, VM and Weissensteiner, MH and Wolf, JBW}, title = {Accumulation and ineffective silencing of transposable elements on an avian W Chromosome.}, journal = {Genome research}, volume = {32}, number = {4}, pages = {671-681}, pmid = {35149543}, issn = {1549-5469}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; *DNA Transposable Elements ; Drosophila ; Epigenesis, Genetic ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Female ; Male ; Sex Chromosomes/genetics ; }, abstract = {One of the defining features of transposable elements (TEs) is their ability to move to new locations in the host genome. To minimize the potentially deleterious effects of de novo TE insertions, hosts have evolved several mechanisms to control TE activity, including recombination-mediated removal and epigenetic silencing; however, increasing evidence suggests that silencing of TEs is often incomplete. The crow family experienced a recent radiation of LTR retrotransposons (LTRs), offering an opportunity to gain insight into the regulatory control of young, potentially still active TEs. We quantified the abundance of TE-derived transcripts across several tissues in 15 Eurasian crows (Corvus (corone) spp.) raised under common garden conditions and find evidence for ineffective TE suppression on the female-specific W Chromosome. Using RNA-seq data, we show that ∼9.5% of all transcribed TEs had considerably greater (average, 16-fold) transcript abundance in female crows and that >85% of these female-biased TEs originated on the W Chromosome. After accounting for differences in TE density among chromosomal classes, W-linked TEs were significantly more highly expressed than TEs residing on other chromosomes, consistent with ineffective silencing on the former. Together, our results suggest that the crow W Chromosome acts as a source of transcriptionally active TEs, with possible negative fitness consequences for female birds analogous to Drosophila (an X/Y system), in which overexpression of Y-linked TEs is associated with male-specific aging and fitness loss ("toxic Y").}, }
@article {pmid35145455, year = {2021}, author = {Wang, J and Cui, R and Stolarz-Fantino, S and Fantino, E and Liu, X}, title = {Differences in Mood, Optimism, and Risk-Taking Behavior Between American and Chinese College Students.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {781609}, pmid = {35145455}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Mood and optimism have been demonstrated to influence risk-taking decisions; however, the literature on mood, optimism, and decision-making is mixed and conducted primarily with western samples. This study sought to address this gap in the literature by examining the impact of mood and dispositional optimism on risk-taking and whether these associations differed between undergraduate students from the United States (N = 141) and the People's Republic of China (N = 90). Both samples completed a dispositional optimism questionnaire and an autobiographical mood induction task. They were then tasked with choosing to complete the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices reasoning task on easy, medium, or hard difficulty for hypothetical money. Selecting harder difficulties was interpreted as more risk-taking due to a higher chance of failure. More positive mood and higher dispositional optimism were associated with decreased risk-taking, i.e., selecting easier puzzle difficulties, in the American sample but increased risk-taking decisions, i.e., selecting harder difficulties, in the Chinese sample (p < 0.05 for all). These findings suggest that the effect of mood and optimism on decision-making may differ by nationality and/or culture.}, }
@article {pmid35139199, year = {2022}, author = {Walsemann, KM and Ureña, S and Farina, MP and Ailshire, JA}, title = {Race Inequity in School Attendance Across the Jim Crow South and Its Implications for Black-White Disparities in Trajectories of Cognitive Function Among Older Adults.}, journal = {The journals of gerontology. Series B, Psychological sciences and social sciences}, volume = {77}, number = {8}, pages = {1467-1477}, pmid = {35139199}, issn = {1758-5368}, support = {R01 AG067536/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; T32 AG000037/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; AARG-NTF-20-684252/ALZ/Alzheimer's Association/United States ; P30 AG043073/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; P30 AG017265/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Black or African American ; Aged ; Cognition ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Schools ; United States ; *White People ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Although education is a key determinant of cognitive function, its role in determining Black-White disparities in cognitive function is unclear. This may be due, in part, to data limitations that have made it difficult to account for systemic educational inequities in the Jim Crow South experienced by older cohorts, including differences in the number of days Black students attended school compared to their White counterparts or Black peers in better-funded southern states. We determine if accounting for differential rates of school attendance across race, years, and states in the Jim Crow South better illuminates Black-White disparities in trajectories of cognitive function.<br><br>METHODS: We linked historical state-level data on school attendance from the 1919/1920 to 1953/1954 Biennial Surveys of Education to the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative, longitudinal study of U.S. adults older than age 50. We restricted our sample to Black and White older adults who attended school in the Jim Crow South and began primary school in/after 1919/1920 and completed primary/secondary school by 1953/1954 (n = 4,343). We used linear mixed models to estimate trajectories of total cognitive function, episodic memory, and working memory.<br><br>RESULTS: Self-reported years of schooling explained 28%-33% of the Black-White disparity in level of cognitive function, episodic memory, and working memory. Duration of school, a measure that accounted for differential rates of school attendance, explained 41%-55% of the Black-White disparity in these outcomes.<br><br>DISCUSSION: Our study highlights the importance of using a more refined measure of schooling for understanding the education-cognitive health relationship.}, }
@article {pmid35136194, year = {2022}, author = {Kitowski, I and Korniłłowicz-Kowalska, T and Bohacz, J and Ciesielska, A}, title = {Dispersal of Aphanoascus keratinophilus by the rook Corvus frugilegus during breeding in East Poland.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {2142}, pmid = {35136194}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*microbiology ; Mycoses/*transmission ; Onygenales/*genetics ; Poland ; }, abstract = {The process of dispersal of the potentially disease-causing, geophilic and keratinolytic fungal strain Aphanoascus keratinophilus (the perfect, sexual stage of Chrysosporium keratinophilum) by the rook Corvus frugilegus was studied. The source of A. keratinophilus strains was pellets of the rook, thus far not considered a carrier of this particular opportunistic pathogen. Pellets collected from breeding colonies of rooks were analysed in terms of the occurrence of keratinolytic fungi with the application of the native keratin bait method. Among the 83 rook pellets analysed, 24 (29%) were infected by keratinophilic fungi. Pure cultures of the fungi were identified to species based on traditional morphological features. Traditional mycological identification was verified by the PCR-RFLP molecular identification method as well as DNA sequencing. The obtained results showed the presence of 90 Aphanoascus keratinophilus strains, 6 Chrysosporium tropicum strains, and 3 Chrysosporium pannicola strains. The PCR melting profile (PCR-MP) method was used to identify intraspecies variations of the 90 analysed A. keratinophilus strains. The dispersal of genotypes and possible pathways of A. keratinophilus dispersal and infection via rook pellets were analysed.}, }
@article {pmid35132811, year = {2022}, author = {De Mendoza, RS and Gómez, RO}, title = {Ecomorphology of the tarsometatarsus of waterfowl (Anseriformes) based on geometric morphometrics and its application to fossils.}, journal = {Anatomical record (Hoboken, N.J. : 2007)}, volume = {305}, number = {11}, pages = {3243-3253}, doi = {10.1002/ar.24891}, pmid = {35132811}, issn = {1932-8494}, mesh = {Animals ; *Anseriformes ; Ducks ; *Fossils ; Geese ; Phylogeny ; Water ; }, abstract = {Anseriformes is a diverse group of birds that comprises screamers, the Magpie Goose, and swans ducks and geese, with a relatively rich fossil record. Waterfowl live in close relation to water bodies, but show a diversity of locomotory habits, being typically categorized as walkers, dabblers, and divers. Owing to its functional significance and high preservation potential, the tarsometatarsus has been considered to be a "key" element upon which to base ecomorphological inferences in fossil waterfowl. For instance, based on features of the tarsometatarsus the Miocene flightless duck Cayaoa bruneti and the Oligocene-Miocene large waterfowl Paranyroca have been inferred as divers. Herein, we use a geometric morphometric approach and comparative methods to assess the phylogenetic and ecomorphological signals in the shape and size of waterfowl tarsometatarsi in relation to their locomotory habits. We also apply phylogenetic flexible discriminant analysis (pFDA) to test the inferred diving habits in the extinct waterfowl Cayaoa and Paranyroca. Extant waterfowl species are largely distributed according to their locomotory habit along the main axis of variation in the shape space, a pattern mirrored by the phylogenetic generalized least squares model, which shows that a third of the shape variation is significantly explained by the habit. The pFDA reclassifies correctly almost all extant species and classified with high posterior probabilities the fossil Cayaoa and Paranyroca as a diver and as a dabbler, respectively. Our quantitative multivariate approach confirms the tarsometatarsus as a useful source of data upon which reliably assesses locomotory habits of fossil waterfowl.}, }
@article {pmid35130984, year = {2022}, author = {Harlow, SD and Burnett-Bowie, SM and Greendale, GA and Avis, NE and Reeves, AN and Richards, TR and Lewis, TT}, title = {Disparities in Reproductive Aging and Midlife Health between Black and White women: The Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN).}, journal = {Women's midlife health}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {3}, pmid = {35130984}, issn = {2054-2690}, support = {U19AG063720/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AG062622/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; U01AG012531/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; U01AG017719/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; U01NR004061/NR/NINR NIH HHS/United States ; U01AG012553/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; U01AG012495/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; U01 NR004061/NR/NINR NIH HHS/United States ; U19 AG063720/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; U01 AG012505/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; U01AG012539/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; U01AG012535/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; U01AG012554/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; U01AG012546/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {This paper reviews differences in the experience of the menopause transition and midlife health outcomes between Black and White women who participated in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN), a 25-year, longitudinal, multi-racial/ethnic cohort study. We identify health disparities, i.e., instances in which Black women's outcomes are less favorable than those of White women, and consider whether structural racism may underlie these disparities. Although SWAN did not explicitly assess structural racism, Black women in SWAN grew up during the Jim Crow era in the United States, during which time racism was legally sanctioned. We consider how we might gain insight into structural racism by examining proxy exposures such as socioeconomic characteristics, reports of everyday discrimination, and a range of life stressors, which likely reflect the longstanding, pervasive and persistent inequities that have roots in systemic racism in the US. Thus, this paper reviews the presence, magnitude, and longitudinal patterns of racial disparities observed in SWAN in six areas of women's health - menopause symptoms, sleep, mental health, health related quality of life, cardio-metabolic health, and physical function -and elucidates the contextual factors that are likely influencing these disparities. We review the strengths and weaknesses of SWAN's design and approach to analysis of racial disparities and use this as a springboard to offer recommendations for future cohort studies.}, }
@article {pmid35119577, year = {2022}, author = {Gonthier, C}, title = {Cross-cultural differences in visuo-spatial processing and the culture-fairness of visuo-spatial intelligence tests: an integrative review and a model for matrices tasks.}, journal = {Cognitive research: principles and implications}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {11}, pmid = {35119577}, issn = {2365-7464}, mesh = {Cross-Cultural Comparison ; Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Spatial Processing ; }, abstract = {Visuo-spatial reasoning tests, such as Raven's matrices, Cattell's culture-fair test, or various subtests of the Wechsler scales, are frequently used to estimate intelligence scores in the context of inter-racial comparisons. This has led to several high-profile works claiming that certain ethnic groups have lower intelligence than others, presumably due to genetic inferiority. This logic is predicated on the assumption that such visuo-spatial tests, because they are non-verbal, must be culture-fair: that their solution process does not significantly draw on factors that vary from one culture to the next. This assumption of culture-fairness is dubious at best and has been questioned by many authors. In this article, I review the substantial body of psychological and ethnographic literature which has demonstrated that the perception, manipulation and conceptualization of visuo-spatial information differs significantly across cultures, in a way that is relevant to intelligence tests. I then outline a model of how these inter-cultural differences can affect seven major steps of the solution process for Raven's matrices, with a brief discussion of other visuo-spatial reasoning tests. Overall, a number of cultural assumptions appear to be deeply ingrained in all visuo-spatial reasoning tests, to the extent that it disqualifies the view of such tests as intrinsically culture-fair and makes it impossible to draw clear-cut conclusions from average score differences between ethnic groups.}, }
@article {pmid39072224, year = {2022}, author = {Wenig, K and Pacher, L and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Testing the contagious nature of allopreening: bystander ravens are affected by conspecifics' affiliative interactions.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {184}, number = {}, pages = {71-80}, pmid = {39072224}, issn = {0003-3472}, support = {P 33960/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; W 1262/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Emotional contagion refers to the mechanism of aligning with conspecifics' emotional states and is thought to be highly beneficial in social group living. While emotional contagion is well studied in humans, most studies in nonhuman animals fail to clearly distinguish between behavioural and emotional contagion. Furthermore, evidence for positive emotional contagion in nonhuman animals is almost entirely restricted to the context of play. In the present study, we aimed at adding observational evidence of contagion in a positive context, while separating aspects of behavioural and emotional contagion. In a group of nonbreeder common ravens, Corvus corax, we investigated whether witnessing conspecifics in positive social interaction, namely allopreening, would influence a bystander's behavioural and, possibly, emotional state. We recorded behavioural expressions of bystanders in postpreening observation phases and compared them to those in matched-control observation phases. We found effects of witnessing others' allopreening on the bystanders' subsequent affiliative interactions but not on their self-directed behaviours (e.g. autopreening) or agonistic interactions. Specifically, bystanders were more likely to engage in allopreening themselves in the postpreening observation phase than in the matched-control observation phase, which could be explained via behavioural and emotional contagion; however, bystanders also showed elevated levels of nonpreening affiliative interactions and spent more time close to conspecifics after observing others allopreening, which hints towards a more general effect on the bystanders' emotional states. Whether these nonpreening affiliative interactions are indeed an indication of emotional contagion needs to be tested in further studies that measure, and manipulate, emotional states.}, }
@article {pmid35096356, year = {2021}, author = {Quílez-Robres, A and Moyano, N and Cortés-Pascual, A}, title = {Executive Functions and SelfEsteem in Academic Performance: A Mediational Analysis.}, journal = {International journal of psychological research}, volume = {14}, number = {2}, pages = {52-60}, pmid = {35096356}, issn = {2011-7922}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Once the paradigm of intelligence as the only predictor of academic performance has been overcome, the influence of other variables, such as reasoning, verbal fluency, executive functions, motivation and self-esteem, was studied.<br><br>METHOD: For this purpose, an exploratory and incidental research design was used in a sample of 132 subjects aged 6-9 years. Di&#xfb00;erent instruments were administered: RAVEN, E&#xfb00;ective Reading, Brief II, MAPE II, and Coopersmith Scale, respectively.<br><br>RESULTS: The results indicate that the predictive model formed by reasoning, verbal &#xfb02;uency, executive functions, and self-esteem explains 55.4% of the academic results. As mediating variables, self-esteem emerges as a predictor of both cognitive and motivational variables, and executive functions, as a predictor of emotional and motivational variables.<br><br>DISCUSSION: This implies theoretical and practical implications of an educational nature with practical implications in primary school classrooms, in order to implement plans to develop self-esteem and executive functions.}, }
@article {pmid35095799, year = {2021}, author = {Nagy, BJ and Balázs, B and Benmazouz, I and Gyüre, P and Kövér, L and Kaszab, E and Bali, K and Lovas-Kiss, &#xc1; and Damjanova, I and Majoros, L and Tóth, &#xc1; and Bányai, K and Kardos, G}, title = {Comparison of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Escherichia coli Isolates From Rooks (Corvus frugilegus) and Contemporary Human-Derived Strains: A One Health Perspective.}, journal = {Frontiers in microbiology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {785411}, pmid = {35095799}, issn = {1664-302X}, abstract = {During winter, a large number of rooks gather and defecate at the park of a university clinic. We investigated the prevalence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli in these birds and compared recovered isolates with contemporary human isolates. In 2016, fecal samples were collected from 112 trap-captured rooks and investigated for presence of ESBL producers using eosin methylene blue agar supplemented by 2 mg/L cefotaxime; 2,455 contemporary human fecal samples of patients of the clinics sent for routine culturing were tested similarly. In addition, 42 ESBL-producing E. coli isolates collected during the same period from inpatients were also studied. ESBL genes were sought for by PCR and were characterized by sequencing; E. coli ST131 clones were identified. Epidemiological relatedness was determined by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and confirmed using whole genome sequencing in selected cases. Thirty-seven (33%) of sampled rooks and 42 (1.7%) of human stools yielded ESBL-producing E coli. Dominant genes were bla CTX-M-55 and bla CTX-M-27 in corvid, bla CTX-M-15 and bla CTX-M-27 in human isolates. ST162 was common among rooks. Two rook-derived E. coli belonged to ST131 C1-M27, which was also predominant (10/42) among human fecal and (15/42) human clinical isolates. Another potential link between rooks and humans was a single ST744 rook isolate grouped with one human fecal and three clinical isolates. Despite possible contact, genotypes shared between rooks and humans were rare. Thus, rooks are important as long-distance vectors and reservoirs of ESBL-producing E. coli rather than direct sources of infections to humans in our setting.}, }
@article {pmid35093720, year = {2022}, author = {Suzuki, Y and Hiroki, H and Xie, H and Nishiyama, M and Sakamoto, SH and Uemura, R and Nukazawa, K and Ogura, Y and Watanabe, T and Kobayashi, I}, title = {Antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli isolated from dairy cows and their surrounding environment on a livestock farm practicing prudent antimicrobial use.}, journal = {International journal of hygiene and environmental health}, volume = {240}, number = {}, pages = {113930}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijheh.2022.113930}, pmid = {35093720}, issn = {1618-131X}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Anti-Infective Agents ; Cattle ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; *Escherichia coli ; Farms ; Feces/microbiology ; Female ; Livestock ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Rats ; }, abstract = {On a livestock farm where antimicrobial administration and its history had been managed for prudent use of antimicrobials, we surveyed antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli strains isolated from cow feces and the surrounding environment (i.e., rat and crow feces, and water samples from a drainage pit and wastewater processing tank) every month for 1 year. Two strains (1.7%) in cow feces were resistant to tetracycline, whereas all other strains were susceptible to all other antimicrobials. Among 136 strains isolated from cows and wild animals, only one ampicillin-resistant strain was identified. The antibiotic resistance rate in the drainage from the barn was 8.3% (10/120), and all strains showed susceptibility for 8 months of the year. Tetracycline resistance was common in all resistant strains isolated from animal feces and water samples; all tetracycline-resistant strains carried tetA. These results strongly support the proper use and management of antibiotics on farms to minimize the outbreak and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.}, }
@article {pmid35091487, year = {2022}, author = {Lewenson, SB}, title = {The Public Health Nurses of Jim Crow Florida, by Christine Ardalan.}, journal = {Nursing history review : official journal of the American Association for the History of Nursing}, volume = {30}, number = {1}, pages = {154-155}, doi = {10.1891/1062-8061.30.154}, pmid = {35091487}, issn = {1062-8061}, }
@article {pmid35085401, year = {2022}, author = {Suh, YH and Bowman, R and Fitzpatrick, JW}, title = {Staging to join non-kin groups in a classical cooperative breeder, the Florida scrub-jay.}, journal = {The Journal of animal ecology}, volume = {91}, number = {5}, pages = {970-982}, doi = {10.1111/1365-2656.13669}, pmid = {35085401}, issn = {1365-2656}, support = {BSR-8705443//National Science Foundation/ ; BSR-8996276//National Science Foundation/ ; BSR-9021902//National Science Foundation/ ; DEB97-07622//National Science Foundation/ ; //U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Male ; Reproduction/physiology ; *Songbirds/physiology ; }, abstract = {Why unrelated members form groups in animal societies remains a pertinent topic in evolutionary biology because benefits for group members often are not obvious. We studied subordinates that disperse to join unrelated social groups in the Florida scrub-jay Aphelocoma coerulescens, a cooperative breeding species mainly composed of kin-based groups. We evaluated potential adaptive benefits of dispersing to become an unrelated helper (staging) versus remaining home and dispersing only to pair and breed (direct dispersal) to understand why non-kin-based groups form. Using 35 years of demographic data, we quantified life-history aspects of staging individuals and tested associations between social and ecological factors on the natal and staging territories. We compared fitness outcomes between dispersal strategies by analysing survival, breeding recruitment and direct reproductive output. We tested for sexual asymmetry potentially driven by differences in territory acquisition patterns and female-biased dispersal for this species. Of birds that reached 1 year, 28% staged at a non-natal territory before breeding or disappearing. Staging dispersers departed at younger ages and moved greater distances than direct dispersers. When looking at proximate factors on the natal territory associated with staging, males left groups with many same-sex helpers, while females often left when their father disappeared. For both sexes, staging individuals more likely came from high-quality territories and joined groups with fewer same-sex helpers than in their natal group. While staging and direct dispersers did not differ in survival or likelihood of becoming a breeder, staging males became breeders later and had lower lifetime reproductive success than direct dispersers. In Florida scrub-jays, staging appears to be an alternative strategy for female helpers, but a best-of-a-bad-situation for males. This sexual asymmetry is consistent with males having more options than females to achieve higher reproductive success by breeding near home. Trade-offs in cost-benefits of departing the natal territory and joining unrelated groups as a helper seem to best explain alternative dispersal patterns, with optimal social queues primarily driving the benefits. This research highlights plasticity in dispersal behaviour in response to social and environmental conditions and offers a new perspective in our understanding of non-kin-based social groups.}, }
@article {pmid35078329, year = {2022}, author = {Sorensen, MC and Strickland, D and Freeman, NE and Fuirst, M and Sutton, AO and Norris, DR}, title = {Early-life experience shapes patterns of senescence in a food-caching passerine.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {18}, number = {1}, pages = {20210532}, pmid = {35078329}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Aging ; Animals ; Food ; Male ; *Reproduction ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {For many species, breeding performance increases through early adulthood followed by declines later in life. Although patterns of age-specific decline have been shown to vary between individuals, the factors that lead to this individual variation in the intensity of reproductive senescence are yet to be fully understood. We investigated whether early-life social status influenced age-related trends in the breeding performance of male Canada jays (Perisoreus canadensis), year-round residents of North America's boreal and sub-alpine forests. Shortly after young become nutritionally independent, intra-brood dominance struggles lead to one juvenile (Dominant Juvenile) remaining on the natal territory after expelling its subordinate siblings (Ejectees). First, we show via radio tracking that in our declining range-edge population Ejectees either join an unrelated pair (67%), form a breeding pair with another bird (28%) or occupy a territory alone (5%). Second, using 39 years of breeding data, we demonstrate that Ejectee males advanced laying dates and increased the annual number of nestlings until 6 years of age before declining, whereas Dominant Juvenile males advanced laying dates until 11 years and increased annual number of nestlings until 12 years of age before declining. This study documents clear variation in ageing patterns between dominant and expelled young, with implications for the role of early-life experiences and phenotypic quality in determining patterns of ageing.}, }
@article {pmid35067742, year = {2022}, author = {Juozaitytė-Ngugu, E and Butkauskas, D and Švažas, S and Prakas, P}, title = {Investigations on Sarcocystis species in the leg muscles of the bird family Corvidae in Lithuania.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {121}, number = {2}, pages = {703-711}, pmid = {35067742}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; DNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; Lithuania ; Muscles ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; *Sarcocystis/genetics ; *Sarcocystosis/epidemiology/veterinary ; }, abstract = {Although three species of Sarcocystis, S. cornixi, S. corvusi and S. kutkienae, have been described in corvids, molecular studies of sarcocysts isolated from these birds are incomplete. Leg muscles of 83 corvids, 35 hooded crows (Corvus cornix), 21 western jackdaws (Coloeus monedula), 11 rooks (Corvus frugilegus), 9 common ravens (Corvus corax), 4 common magpies (Pica pica) and 3 Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius), from Lithuania were examined for the presence of Sarcocystis spp. in the present study. In methylene blue-stained squashed samples, sarcocysts were detected in 26 birds (31.0%). Under a light microscope, two morphological types of sarcocysts were distinguished (type A and type B). Sarcocysts of type A had a smooth and thin (about 1 μm) cyst wall, while cysts of type B were characterised by a thicker (1.4-2.5 μm) cyst wall. Based on ITS1 sequence comparison, sarcocysts of type A were identified as S. halieti and Sarcocystis sp. ex Corvus corax, whereas cysts of type B belonged to S. kutkienae and S. cornixi. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that a single bird could host two different Sarcocystis spp. Sarcocystis halieti was detected in corvids for the first time in the common raven and the hooded crow. Also, this study presents the first evidence of S. kutkienae in the hooded crow and the common magpie, and S. cornixi in the western jackdaw. Sarcocystis sp. ex Corvus corax was genetically characterised using almost complete 18S rDNA, partial 28S rDNA and complete ITS1 sequences. Sarcocystis sp. ex Corvus corax clustered together with S. columbae, S. corvusi and S. halieti in phylogenetic trees reconstructed using 28S rDNA and ITS1 sequences.}, }
@article {pmid35064615, year = {2022}, author = {Akulinina, I and Stefanaki, I and Pavlíčková, E and Maiolino, M and Hajduk, S and Sápy, M and Mertin, B and Rijo, H and Tekeli, &#xd6; and Valois, A and Delva, C and Kerob, D}, title = {Topical formulation containing peptides and vitamin C in ampoules improves skin aging signs: Results of a large, international, observational study.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {21}, number = {9}, pages = {3910-3916}, pmid = {35064615}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//Laboratoires Vichy/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; *Ascorbic Acid/adverse effects ; Female ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid ; Middle Aged ; *Peptides/adverse effects ; *Skin Aging ; Water ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Peptide-C ampoules (PC) contain peptides, 10% of vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and Vichy volcanic mineralizing water.<br><br>AIMS: To assess the effectiveness and tolerability of PC.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: An observational study conducted in 9 countries in women &#x2265;30&#xa0;years old with signs of facial skin aging (grade >0 for forehead and/or crow's feet wrinkles and bothered by skin quality). Investigator assessments and subject questionnaires were performed at initial visit and Day 30 after application of PC twice daily for 28&#xa0;days. Tolerance was assessed throughout the study.<br><br>RESULTS: Effectiveness and safety were analyzed in 1382 and 1742&#xa0;subjects, respectively. Most subjects (mean age 48.5&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;8.6&#xa0;years) had skin phototype II or III (91.7%) and dry or combination skin (63.9%). PC was used as a standalone care or prior to a planned procedure (70%), or after a procedure (30%). Between baseline and Day 30, 63% and 64% of all subjects (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;1360) had an improvement in forehead wrinkles and crow's feet wrinkles, respectively. Skin hydration improved in 67.3% of subjects. According to investigator and subject assessments, skin quality, skin radiance, skin aging signs, wrinkles, complexion, and skin pores significantly improved by Day 30. Similar results were observed for subgroup analyses when PC was used as standalone skin care or after a procedure. Tolerance of PC was rated as good to very good by 97.7% of subjects.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Peptide-C ampoules is effective in reducing visible signs of skin aging, and well tolerated, when used alone or as an adjunct to anti-aging procedures.}, }
@article {pmid35060310, year = {2022}, author = {Signorini, M and Piero Fundarò, S and Bertossi, D and Cavallini, M and Cirillo, P and Natuzzi, G and Quartucci, S and Sciuto, C and Patalano, M and Trocchi, G}, title = {OnabotulinumtoxinA from lines to facial reshaping: A new Italian consensus report.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {21}, number = {2}, pages = {550-563}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.14728}, pmid = {35060310}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//Allergan SpA/ ; }, mesh = {*Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; Consensus ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Esthetics, Dental ; Gingiva ; Humans ; *Neuromuscular Agents ; Smiling ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum neurotoxin type A is the most widely used nonsurgical treatment for esthetic improvement of the face and neck. In 2015, an Italian consensus panel met to discuss the optimal methods for using onabotulinumtoxinA. However, clinical practice continues to evolve and the original report is now considered obsolete.<br><br>AIMS: To provide updated guidance on the esthetic uses of onabotulinumtoxinA in the face and neck.<br><br>METHODS: A panel of 10 Italian specialists (including plastic and maxillofacial surgeons, dermatologists, and esthetic doctors) individually completed a questionnaire on their own clinical practice, and then met to discuss their responses and agree on a revised treatment consensus.<br><br>RESULTS: Recommendations are provided on patient assessment, reconstitution of onabotulinumtoxinA, and preferred procedures (injection sites, doses, anatomical targets, safety precautions, etc.) across a variety of treatment areas, including glabellar, crow's feet, and forehead lines; brow lifting and shaping; lower eyelid hypertrophy; bunny lines; sagging nasal tip; gummy smile; masseter hypertrophy; perioral lines; marionette lines and "sad mouth;" mentalis hypertonia; and platysma bands. Some of the recommended doses are substantially increased from the previous consensus (particularly in the upper third and masseter) for the purpose of achieving longer lasting results without affecting safety. Furthermore, two increasingly popular techniques-the Nefertiti lift and Microbotox-are included in the consensus for the first time.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Optimal practice with onabotulinumtoxinA requires a systematic approach to maximize safety and effectiveness across the range of potential uses. The present consensus was developed to support these aims.}, }
@article {pmid35048808, year = {2022}, author = {Pistacchi, M and Gioulis, M and Marsala, SZ}, title = {Association between Delirium and Cognitive Impairment: Is there a Link?.}, journal = {Current Alzheimer research}, volume = {19}, number = {1}, pages = {47-55}, doi = {10.2174/1567205019666220120114552}, pmid = {35048808}, issn = {1875-5828}, mesh = {Aged ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/epidemiology ; *Delirium/diagnosis/epidemiology/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Prevalence ; Prospective Studies ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Delirium and dementia are both disorders involving global cognitive impairment that can occur separately or at the same time in the elderly.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the frequency, correlation, and relative risk between delirium and cognitive impairment in a prospective population study starting at the basal line (onset of delirium) over a period of five years. The secondary aim was to determine any possible correlation between the kind of delirium and a specific type of dementia.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: We studied 325 patients diagnosed according to the DSM-IV. The neuropsychological, moods and delirium disorders were evaluated with Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, Delirium Rating Scale-Revised-98, MMSE, Rey auditory-verbal learning test, Digit Span, Symbol Digit Modalities Test, Raven Progressive Matrices, ADL, and IADL.<br><br>RESULTS: The prevalence of delirium in our population was 89 cases (27.4%): 78 patients (48 women and 30 men) showed evolution toward dementia (mean age was 67.9 &#xb1; 6.1 years for men and 68.4 &#xb1; 9.1 for women), and 11 patients (5 men and 6 women) presented only isolated delirium without evolution toward cognitive impairment (mean age of men was 68.1 &#xb1; 5.1 years and of women 66.4 &#xb1; 7.1). The neuropsychological study of the patients with delirium with dementia evolution revealed statistically significant differences over time with a statistically significant intergroup difference and predisposition toward depression.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The association between delirium and cognitive impairment and the possible role of delirium as an early marker of neurodegenerative diseases need to be investigated in the future.}, }
@article {pmid35041298, year = {2022}, author = {Kasimov, V and Dong, Y and Shao, R and Brunton, A and Anstey, SI and Hall, C and Chalmers, G and Conroy, G and Booth, R and Timms, P and Jelocnik, M}, title = {Emerging and well-characterized chlamydial infections detected in a wide range of wild Australian birds.}, journal = {Transboundary and emerging diseases}, volume = {69}, number = {5}, pages = {e3154-e3170}, pmid = {35041298}, issn = {1865-1682}, support = {DE190100238//Australian Research Council/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Australia/epidemiology ; Birds ; *Chlamydia Infections/epidemiology/microbiology/veterinary ; *Chlamydophila psittaci/genetics ; *Circovirus/genetics ; Humans ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; }, abstract = {Birds can act as successful long-distance vectors and reservoirs for numerous zoonotic bacterial, parasitic and viral pathogens, which can be a concern given the interconnectedness of animal, human and environmental health. Examples of such avian pathogens are members of the genus Chlamydia. Presently, there is a lack of research investigating chlamydial infections in Australian wild and captive birds and the subsequent risks to humans and other animals. In our current study, we investigated the prevalence and genetic diversity of chlamydial organisms infecting wild birds from Queensland and the rate of co-infections with beak and feather disease virus (BFDV). We screened 1114 samples collected from 564 different birds from 16 orders admitted to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital from May 2019 to February 2021 for Chlamydia and BFDV. Utilizing species-specific quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays, we revealed an overall Chlamydiaceae prevalence of 29.26% (165/564; 95% confidence interval (CI) 25.65-33.14), including 3.19% (18/564; 95% CI 2.03-4.99%) prevalence of the zoonotic Chlamydia psittaci. Chlamydiaceae co-infection with BFDV was detected in 9.75% (55/564; 95% CI 7.57-12.48%) of the birds. Molecular characterization of the chlamydial 16S rRNA and ompA genes identified C. psittaci, in addition to novel and other genetically diverse Chlamydia species: avian Chlamydia abortus, Ca. Chlamydia ibidis and Chlamydia pneumoniae, all detected for the first time in Australia within a novel avian host range (crows, figbirds, herons, kookaburras, lapwings and shearwaters). This study shows that C. psittaci and other emerging Chlamydia species are prevalent in a wider range of avian hosts than previously anticipated, potentially increasing the risk of spill-over to Australian wildlife, livestock and humans. Going forward, we need to further characterize C. psittaci and other emerging Chlamydia species to determine their exact genetic identity, potential reservoirs, and factors influencing infection spill-over.}, }
@article {pmid35031024, year = {2022}, author = {Saxena, A and Trivedi, M and Shroff, ZC and Sharma, M}, title = {Improving hospital-based processes for effective implementation of Government funded health insurance schemes: evidence from early implementation of PM-JAY in India.}, journal = {BMC health services research}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {73}, pmid = {35031024}, issn = {1472-6963}, support = {001/WHO_/World Health Organization/International ; }, mesh = {Government ; Health Services ; Hospitals ; Humans ; India ; *Insurance, Health ; *Universal Health Insurance ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Government-sponsored health insurance schemes (GSHIS) aim to improve access to and utilization of healthcare services and offer financial protection to the population. India's Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) is one such GSHIS. This paper aims to understand how the processes put in place to manage hospital-based transactions, from the time a beneficiary arrives at the hospital to discharge are being implemented in PM-JAY and how to improve them to strengthen the scheme's operation.<br><br>METHODS: Guidelines were reviewed for the processes associated with hospital-based transactions, namely, beneficiary authentication, treatment package selection, preauthorization, discharge, and claims payments. Across 14 hospitals in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh states, the above-mentioned processes were observed, and using a semi-structured interview guide fifty-three respondents were interviewed. The study was carried out from March 2019 to August 2019.<br><br>RESULTS: Average turn-around time for claim reimbursement is two to six times higher than that proposed in guidelines and tender. As opposed to the guidelines, beneficiaries are incurring out-of-pocket expenditure while availing healthcare services. The training provided to the front-line workers is software-centric. Hospital-based processes are relatively more efficient in hospitals where frontline workers have a medical/paramedical/managerial background.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: There is a need to broaden capacity-building efforts from enabling frontline staff to operate the scheme's IT platform to developing the technical, managerial, and leadership skills required for them. At the hospital level, an empowered frontline worker is the key to efficient hospital-based processes. There is a need to streamline back-end processes to eliminate the causes for delay in the processing of claim payment requests. For policymakers, the most important and urgent need is to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. To that end, there is a need to both revisit and streamline the existing guidelines and ensure adherence to the guidelines.}, }
@article {pmid35012054, year = {2021}, author = {Chi, M and Gargouri, R and Schrader, T and Damak, K and Maâlej, R and Sierka, M}, title = {Atomistic Descriptors for Machine Learning Models of Solubility Parameters for Small Molecules and Polymers.}, journal = {Polymers}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {35012054}, issn = {2073-4360}, support = {Project number 316213987 - SFB 1278 "PolyTarget" (project A01)//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; }, abstract = {Descriptors derived from atomic structure and quantum chemical calculations for small molecules representing polymer repeat elements were evaluated for machine learning models to predict the Hildebrand solubility parameters of the corresponding polymers. Since reliable cohesive energy density data and solubility parameters for polymers are difficult to obtain, the experimental heat of vaporization ΔHvap of a set of small molecules was used as a proxy property to evaluate the descriptors. Using the atomistic descriptors, the multilinear regression model showed good accuracy in predicting ΔHvap of the small-molecule set, with a mean absolute error of 2.63 kJ/mol for training and 3.61 kJ/mol for cross-validation. Kernel ridge regression showed similar performance for the small-molecule training set but slightly worse accuracy for the prediction of ΔHvap of molecules representing repeating polymer elements. The Hildebrand solubility parameters of the polymers derived from the atomistic descriptors of the repeating polymer elements showed good correlation with values from the CROW polymer database.}, }
@article {pmid35009658, year = {2021}, author = {Zi, J and Lv, D and Liu, J and Huang, X and Yao, W and Gao, M and Xi, R and Zhang, Y}, title = {Improved Swarm Intelligent Blind Source Separation Based on Signal Cross-Correlation.}, journal = {Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {35009658}, issn = {1424-8220}, support = {No. 333 31860332//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; No.2015FIA02//Kunming Forestry Information Engineering Technology Research Center/ ; No.202002AD080002//Major Special Projects in Yunnan Province/ ; No. 202002AA10007//Major scientific and technological projects in Yunnan Province/ ; No.61462078//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; }, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Animals ; *Butterflies ; Intelligence ; }, abstract = {In recent years, separating effective target signals from mixed signals has become a hot and challenging topic in signal research. The SI-BSS (Blind source separation (BSS) based on swarm intelligence (SI) algorithm) has become an effective method for the linear mixture BSS. However, the SI-BSS has the problem of incomplete separation, as not all the signal sources can be separated. An improved algorithm for BSS with SI based on signal cross-correlation (SI-XBSS) is proposed in this paper. Our method created a candidate separation pool that contains more separated signals than the traditional SI-BSS does; it identified the final separated signals by the value of the minimum cross-correlation in the pool. Compared with the traditional SI-BSS, the SI-XBSS was applied in six SI algorithms (Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Genetic Algorithm (GA), Differential Evolution (DE), Sine Cosine Algorithm (SCA), Butterfly Optimization Algorithm (BOA), and Crow Search Algorithm (CSA)). The results showed that the SI-XBSS could effectively achieve a higher separation success rate, which was over 35% higher than traditional SI-BSS on average. Moreover, SI-SDR increased by 14.72 on average.}, }
@article {pmid35002129, year = {2021}, author = {Prabhakar, A and Abdulkhayarkutty, K and Cheruvallil, SV and Sudhakaran, P}, title = {Effect of Endemic Fluorosis on Cognitive Function of School Children in Alappuzha District, Kerala: A Cross Sectional Study.}, journal = {Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology}, volume = {24}, number = {5}, pages = {715-720}, pmid = {35002129}, issn = {0972-2327}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Exposure to high fluoride levels in drinking water can lead to a number of adverse effects in children, including cognitive dysfunction. Despite being endemic for fluorosis, studies on its effect on the cognitive function of children are lacking in Kerala.<br><br>AIMS: The aim of this study was to compare the cognitive function of school children with fluorosis with that of normal children and to correlate between the severity of dental fluorosis and cognitive function.<br><br>SETTINGS AND DESIGN: Cross-sectional study, conducted in collaboration with the National Fluorosis Control Programme, among school children in Alappuzha district, Kerala.<br><br>METHODS: Children aged 8-10 years, studying in 2 lower primary schools in Alappuzha district with confirmed fluorosis were selected, and compared with healthy age- and sex-matched children from the same school. Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices and MISIC digit span subtest were used to assess the cognitive function.<br><br>STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Continuous variables were assessed by independent samples t test and categorical variables by Chi-square test. The relationship between severity of dental fluorosis and grade of cognitive impairment was assessed using Spearman's correlation.<br><br>RESULTS: There were 60 children each in fluorosis and control groups. The mean age of the children was 8.95 &#xb1; 0.50. Only 15% of the children with fluorosis scored Grade I and II Raven's SPM grades (Intellectually superior/above the average) versus 30% in the control group. None of the children without fluorosis scored Grade V (intellectually impaired) category versus 20% in the fluorosis group. The mean digit span was significantly higher in the control group. A strong positive correlation between severity of dental fluorosis and Raven's SPM grades was found (Spearman's correlation coefficient = 0.740).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Fluorosis is associated with impaired cognition in children. There is a positive correlation between severity of dental fluorosis and the grade of cognitive impairment.}, }
@article {pmid35000442, year = {2022}, author = {Boucherie, PH and Gallego-Abenza, M and Massen, JJM and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Dominance in a socially dynamic setting: hierarchical structure and conflict dynamics in ravens' foraging groups.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {377}, number = {1845}, pages = {20200446}, pmid = {35000442}, issn = {1471-2970}, support = {P 29705/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; P 33960/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Aggression ; Animals ; *Crows ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Social Dominance ; }, abstract = {Dominance hierarchies typically emerge in systems where group members regularly encounter and compete for resources. In birds, the 'open' and dynamic structure of foraging groups may prevent the emergence of structured hierarchies, although this assumption have hardly been tested. We report on agonistic data for ravens Corvus corax, collected over two 18-month periods for 183 marked individuals of a wild (fluid) population and 51 birds from six captive (stable) groups. We show that the dominance structure (steep and transitive) in wild foraging groups is strikingly similar to that found in captivity. In the wild, we found that higher ranks are mainly occupied by males, older and more aggressive individuals that also tend to receive fewer aggressions. Exploring the mechanisms sustaining the wild dominance structure, we confirmed that males are more aggressive than females and, with age, tend to receive fewer aggressions than females. Males that are about to leave the foraging groups for some months are less aggressive than newcomers or locals, while newcomers are specifically targeted by aggressions in their first year (as juveniles). Taken together, our results indicate that the socially dynamic conditions ravens face during foraging do not hinder, but provide opportunities for, using (advanced) social cognition. This article is part of the theme issue 'The centennial of the pecking order: current state and future prospects for the study of dominance hierarchies'.}, }
@article {pmid34997767, year = {2022}, author = {Ströckens, F and Neves, K and Kirchem, S and Schwab, C and Herculano-Houzel, S and Güntürkün, O}, title = {High associative neuron numbers could drive cognitive performance in corvid species.}, journal = {The Journal of comparative neurology}, volume = {530}, number = {10}, pages = {1588-1605}, doi = {10.1002/cne.25298}, pmid = {34997767}, issn = {1096-9861}, support = {STR 1404/1-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; GU 227/16-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Brain ; Cerebral Cortex ; Cognition ; Columbidae ; *Neurons/physiology ; *Telencephalon/physiology ; }, abstract = {Corvids possess cognitive skills, matching those of nonhuman primates. However, how these species with their small brains achieve such feats remains elusive. Recent studies suggest that cognitive capabilities could be based on the total numbers of telencephalic neurons. Here we extend this hypothesis further and posit that especially high neuron counts in associative pallial areas drive flexible, complex cognition. If true, avian species like corvids should specifically accumulate neurons in the avian associative areas meso- and nidopallium. To test the hypothesis, we analyzed the neuronal composition of telencephalic areas in corvids and noncorvids (chicken, pigeons, and ostriches-the species with the largest bird brain). The overall number of pallial neurons in corvids was much higher than in chicken and pigeons and comparable to those of ostriches. However, neuron numbers in the associative mesopallium and nidopallium were twice as high in corvids and, in correlation with these associative areas, the corvid subpallium also contained high neuron numbers. These findings support our hypothesis that large absolute numbers of associative pallial neurons contribute to cognitive flexibility and complexity and are key to explain why crows are smart. Since meso-/nidopallial and subpallial areas scale jointly, it is conceivable that associative pallio-striatal loops play a similar role in executive decision making as described in primates.}, }
@article {pmid34997433, year = {2022}, author = {LaFave, SE and Suen, JJ and Seau, Q and Bergman, A and Fisher, MC and Thorpe, RJ and Szanton, SL}, title = {Racism and Older Black Americans' Health: a Systematic Review.}, journal = {Journal of urban health : bulletin of the New York Academy of Medicine}, volume = {99}, number = {1}, pages = {28-54}, pmid = {34997433}, issn = {1468-2869}, support = {F31 NR019211/NR/NINR NIH HHS/United States ; TL1 TR003100/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; T32 AG066576/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; DP1 AG069874/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; F31 AG071353/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Black or African American/psychology ; Aged ; Black People ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Racism/psychology ; *Social Segregation ; Systemic Racism ; }, abstract = {We reviewed research that examines racism as an independent variable and one or more health outcomes as dependent variables in Black American adults aged 50 years and older in the USA. Of the 43 studies we reviewed, most measured perceived interpersonal racism, perceived institutional racism, or residential segregation. The only two measures of structural racism were birth and residence in a "Jim Crow state." Fourteen studies found associations between racism and mental health outcomes, five with cardiovascular outcomes, seven with cognition, two with physical function, two with telomere length, and five with general health/other health outcomes. Ten studies found no significant associations in older Black adults. All but six of the studies were cross-sectional. Research to understand the extent of structural and multilevel racism as a social determinant of health and the impact on older adults specifically is needed. Improved measurement tools could help address this gap in science.}, }
@article {pmid34990824, year = {2022}, author = {Martin, RJ and Dick, MF and Sherry, DF}, title = {Canada jays (Perisoreus canadensis) balance protein and energy targets simultaneously in both consumed and cached food.}, journal = {Comparative biochemistry and physiology. Part A, Molecular &amp; integrative physiology}, volume = {266}, number = {}, pages = {111142}, doi = {10.1016/j.cbpa.2021.111142}, pmid = {34990824}, issn = {1531-4332}, mesh = {Animals ; Canada ; *Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Food ; Seasons ; *Songbirds/physiology ; }, abstract = {Food scarce periods pose serious physiological challenges for birds, especially in energetically demanding conditions. For species in the northern hemisphere, a decrease in available resources during winter adds further physiological stress to the energetic demands of life at low temperatures. Some species cache food to provide a reliable energy and nutrient resource during scarcity. Canada Jays are a year-round food-caching resident of the North American boreal forest. Canada Jays also rear their young prior to spring green up, making food caching not only essential for adult winter survival, but also potentially important for meeting the requirements of growing offspring in late winter and early spring. We examined the diet choices of Canada Jays immediately prior to winter, and the macronutrient composition of the foods Canada Jay consumed and cached at this time. We found that Canada Jays cache the same relative amounts of macronutrients as they consume but did not vary macronutrients seasonally. The similarities in the macronutrient proportions cached and consumed suggest a consistent nutrient intake pattern, and that Canada Jays are foraging to simultaneously meet similar minimum energy and minimum protein targets for both the present and future. These simultaneous targets constrain the caching decisions of jays when presented with dietary choices.}, }
@article {pmid34983896, year = {2022}, author = {Marsja, E and Stenbäck, V and Moradi, S and Danielsson, H and Rönnberg, J}, title = {Is Having Hearing Loss Fundamentally Different? Multigroup Structural Equation Modeling of the Effect of Cognitive Functioning on Speech Identification.}, journal = {Ear and hearing}, volume = {43}, number = {5}, pages = {1437-1446}, doi = {10.1097/AUD.0000000000001196}, pmid = {34983896}, issn = {1538-4667}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cognition ; *Deafness ; Humans ; Latent Class Analysis ; Middle Aged ; *Presbycusis ; Speech ; *Speech Perception ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Previous research suggests that there is a robust relationship between cognitive functioning and speech-in-noise performance for older adults with age-related hearing loss. For normal-hearing adults, on the other hand, the research is not entirely clear. Therefore, the current study aimed to examine the relationship between cognitive functioning, aging, and speech-in-noise, in a group of older normal-hearing persons and older persons with hearing loss who wear hearing aids.<br><br>DESIGN: We analyzed data from 199 older normal-hearing individuals (mean age = 61.2) and 200 older individuals with hearing loss (mean age = 60.9) using multigroup structural equation modeling. Four cognitively related tasks were used to create a cognitive functioning construct: the reading span task, a visuospatial working memory task, the semantic word-pairs task, and Raven's progressive matrices. Speech-in-noise, on the other hand, was measured using Hagerman sentences. The Hagerman sentences were presented via an experimental hearing aid to both normal hearing and hearing-impaired groups. Furthermore, the sentences were presented with one of the two background noise conditions: the Hagerman original speech-shaped noise or four-talker babble. Each noise condition was also presented with three different hearing processing settings: linear processing, fast compression, and noise reduction.<br><br>RESULTS: Cognitive functioning was significantly related to speech-in-noise identification. Moreover, aging had a significant effect on both speech-in-noise and cognitive functioning. With regression weights constrained to be equal for the two groups, the final model had the best fit to the data. Importantly, the results showed that the relationship between cognitive functioning and speech-in-noise was not different for the two groups. Furthermore, the same pattern was evident for aging: the effects of aging on cognitive functioning and aging on speech-in-noise were not different between groups.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our findings revealed similar cognitive functioning and aging effects on speech-in-noise performance in older normal-hearing and aided hearing-impaired listeners. In conclusion, the findings support the Ease of Language Understanding model as cognitive processes play a critical role in speech-in-noise independent from the hearing status of elderly individuals.}, }
@article {pmid34976286, year = {2021}, author = {Wu, Y and Li, C and Garcia, J and Baradaran, S}, title = {Patient-reported Outcomes in Chinese Subjects Treated with OnabotulinumtoxinA for Crow's Feet Lines.}, journal = {The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology}, volume = {14}, number = {10}, pages = {27-31}, pmid = {34976286}, issn = {1941-2789}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Crow's feet lines (CFLs) can impact the emotional state, self-perception, and consciousness regarding appearance of patients.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: This study sought to assess patient-reported outcomes after onabotulinumtoxinA treatment for CFLs among Chinese subjects.<br><br>METHODS: A five-month, double-blind, randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled Phase III clinical study was conducted including Chinese adults with moderate-to-severe CFLs at maximum smile. Subjects were randomized 3:1 to 24 U of onabotulinumtoxinA or placebo and completed the 11-item Facial Line Outcomes (FLO-11) questionnaire and Facial Line Satisfaction Questionnaire (FLSQ) at baseline; on Days 8, 15, and 30; and monthly thereafter until Day 150. Item-level and/or domain analyses for the FLO-11 and FLSQ were conducted.<br><br>RESULTS: Of 417 treated subjects, 316 received onabotulinumtoxinA and 101 received placebo. For all 10 validated stand-alone FLO-11 items, there was a significantly greater proportion of responders in the onabotulinumtoxinA group versus placebo (P<0.001) at Day 30 that was maintained through Day 150. Significant improvements at Day 30 were reported for all FLSQ items and the FLSQ Follow-up Impact Domain (P&#x2264;0.01).<br><br>CONCLUSION: FLO-11 and FLSQ data indicated high satisfaction and significant improvements in appearance-related and emotional impacts through Day 150 in patients treated with onabotulinumtoxinA for moderate-to-severe CFLs in Chinese subjects.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier no. NCT02195687.}, }
@article {pmid34975660, year = {2021}, author = {Khvatov, IA and Smirnova, AA and Samuleeva, MV and Ershov, EV and Buinitskaya, SD and Kharitonov, AN}, title = {Hooded Crows (Corvus cornix) May Be Aware of Their Own Body Size.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {769397}, pmid = {34975660}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Body-awareness is one of the manifestations of self-awareness, expressed in the ability of people and animals to represent their own body physical properties. Relatively little work has been devoted to this phenomenon in comparison with the studies of the ability of self-recognition in the mirror, and most studies have been conducted on mammals and human infants. Crows are known to be "clever" birds, so we investigated whether hooded crows (Corvus cornix) may be aware of their own body size. We set up an experimental design in which the crows had to pass through one of three openings to reach the bait. In the first experiment, we studied whether crows prefer a larger hole if all the three are suitable for passage, and what other predictors influence their choice. In the second experiment, we assessed the ability of the crows to select a single passable hole out of three on the first attempt, even though the area of the former was smaller than that of the other two. The results of the first experiment suggest that when choosing among three passable holes, crows prefer those holes that require less effort from them, e.g., they do not need to crouch or make other additional movements. In the second experiment, three of the five crows reliably more often chose a single passable hole on the first try, despite its smaller size. We believe that these results suggest that hooded crows may be aware of their own body size.}, }
@article {pmid34972418, year = {2021}, author = {Halliday, JWD and Bland, SN and Hare, JD and Parker, S and Suttle, LG and Russell, DR and Lebedev, SV}, title = {A time-resolved imaging system for the diagnosis of x-ray self-emission in high energy density physics experiments.}, journal = {The Review of scientific instruments}, volume = {92}, number = {12}, pages = {123507}, doi = {10.1063/5.0073174}, pmid = {34972418}, issn = {1089-7623}, abstract = {A diagnostic capable of recording spatially and temporally resolved x-ray self-emission data was developed to characterize experiments on the MAGPIE pulsed-power generator. The diagnostic used two separate imaging systems: a pinhole imaging system with two-dimensional spatial resolution and a slit imaging system with one-dimensional spatial resolution. The two-dimensional imaging system imaged light onto the image plate. The one-dimensional imaging system imaged light onto the same piece of image plate and a linear array of silicon photodiodes. This design allowed the cross-comparison of different images, allowing a picture of the spatial and temporal distribution of x-ray self-emission to be established. The design was tested in a series of pulsed-power-driven magnetic-reconnection experiments.}, }
@article {pmid37387290, year = {2022}, author = {Chłopaś-Konowałek, A and Zawadzki, M and Kurach, &#x141; and Wachełko, O and Ciaputa, R and Tusiewicz, K and Szpot, P}, title = {Simultaneous poisoning of 48 birds of prey - bendiocarb determination with the use of UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS method in fatal case from Eastern Europe.}, journal = {Archiwum medycyny sadowej i kryminologii}, volume = {72}, number = {2}, pages = {67-80}, doi = {10.4467/16891716AMSIK.22.009.16807}, pmid = {37387290}, issn = {1689-1716}, abstract = {AIM: Bendiocarb is used against a wide range of insects but has already been withdrawn from the market in some countries. It poses a high risk to birds as they can accidentally ingest it while searching for food, followed by toxic effects. This paper presents the results of toxicological and histopathological studies of 48 cases of intentional birds of prey poisoning with bendiocarb in Eastern Europe, specifically Poland.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: A novel ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS) method for bendiocarb determination in animal liver samples was developed and fully validated. The sample preparation technique was based on one-step precipitation of proteins with cold acetonitrile. The internal standard used was carbaryl-d7. Full time of analysis was less than 10 minutes. The application of the UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS method allowed us to achieve the lowest LOQ (1 ng/g) of bendiocarb in biological samples to date.<br><br>RESULTS: Necropsies and histopathological examinations of common ravens (Corvus corax), western marsh harriers (Circus aeruginosus), red kites (Milvus milvus), and a white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla) revealed multi-organ toxicity manifested as congestion, oedema, or stagnation of blood. An analytical investigation confirmed the presence of bendiocarb in liver in the 1808-7721 ng/g range. Furthermore, the presence of this compound was qualitatively confirmed in the stomach and beak contents and also in the bait located near the deceased animals.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: A comprehensive forensic examination is crucial to monitor wildlife fatalities, especially applying a combined analytical and histopathological approach to identify and eliminate highly toxic substances which pose a threat to the ecosystem.}, }
@article {pmid34958693, year = {2022}, author = {Shariff, R and Du, Y and Dutta, M and Kumar, S and Thimmaiah, S and Doraiswamy, C and Kumari, A and Kale, V and Nair, N and Zhang, S and Joshi, M and Santhanam, U and Qiang, Q and Damodaran, A}, title = {Superior even skin tone and anti-ageing benefit of a combination of 4-hexylresorcinol and niacinamide.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {44}, number = {1}, pages = {103-117}, pmid = {34958693}, issn = {1468-2494}, mesh = {Aging ; *Hexylresorcinol/therapeutic use ; Humans ; *Hyperpigmentation/drug therapy ; Niacinamide/pharmacology ; Skin Pigmentation ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate the synergistic effect of 4-hexylresorcinol (4-HR) with niacinamide in boosting anti-melanogenic efficacy in vitro and establish the in vivo efficacy and safety of the combination in a human trial.<br><br>METHODS: Primary human epidermal melanocytes and 3D pigmented skin equivalents were treated with 4-HR, niacinamide, and their combinations for their effect on pigmentation. This was followed by a randomized, double-blind, split-face clinical study in Chinese subjects, and effects on skin tone, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, hydration, and skin firmness were measured for a 12-week study period.<br><br>RESULTS: In vitro tyrosinase enzyme activity studies showed that 4-HR is one of the most potent tyrosinase inhibitors. The combination of 4-HR and niacinamide showed a synergistic reduction in melanin production in cultured melanocytes and lightened the 3D skin equivalent model. In vitro as well as in the human trial, the combination of 4-HR and niacinamide showed significantly improved efficacy over niacinamide alone on hyperpigmentation spots as measured by L*, the visual appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in crow's feet and perioral area and skin firmness, with no product-related adverse events.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: A formulation containing a combination of 4-HR and niacinamide delivered superior skin tone and anti-ageing benefits significantly better than niacinamide alone with no adverse events. This study demonstrates that a product designed to affect multiple pathways of melanogenesis, inflammation, and ageing may provide an additional treatment option, beyond hydroquinone and retinoids, for hyperpigmentation and ageing.}, }
@article {pmid34946442, year = {2021}, author = {Shcherbakov, N and Varako, N and Kovyazina, M and Zueva, Y and Baulina, M and Skvortsov, A and Chernikova, D}, title = {Dynamics of Neuropsychological Symptoms during the Training of Executive Functions in Neurological Patients.}, journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {9}, number = {12}, pages = {}, pmid = {34946442}, issn = {2227-9032}, abstract = {Executive function disorder rehabilitation in neurological patients is associated with many difficulties. We investigated the effectiveness of group training, proposed by B. Wilson et al., which has the model of frontal lobes functioning by D. T. Stuss as the theoretical background. The study participants were 16 patients with executive function disorder caused by TBI, strokes, and infections. The training was shortened from 9 weeks to 3 and adopted to the conditions of the rehabilitation centre where the study was held. The evaluation of training effectiveness was carried out by the methods of neuropsychological diagnostics proposed by A. R. Luria as well as standardized quantitative tests (CWIT test, Raven test, FAB) and questionnaires (EBIQ) aimed at assessing the state of executive functions and general well-being. In result positive trends, but not reaching the level of significance, were revealed in the performance of all evaluating methods, with the exception of "arithmetic problems" and "inhibitory control" as part of the FAB test. Statistically significant result was obtained concerning such tests as "counting", "analysis of story pictures", and index of total uncorrected errors in the CWIT test. Thus, the results of eventual assessment showed positive dynamic of executive functions state.}, }
@article {pmid34930821, year = {2022}, author = {Willi, Y and Kristensen, TN and Sgrò, CM and Weeks, AR and Ørsted, M and Hoffmann, AA}, title = {Conservation genetics as a management tool: The five best-supported paradigms to assist the management of threatened species.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {119}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {34930821}, issn = {1091-6490}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; *Endangered Species ; Gene Flow ; Genetic Load ; Genetic Markers ; *Genetic Variation ; *Genetics, Population ; *Population Density ; Population Dynamics ; }, abstract = {About 50 y ago, Crow and Kimura [An Introduction to Population Genetics Theory (1970)] and Ohta and Kimura [Genet. Res. 22, 201-204 (1973)] laid the foundations of conservation genetics by predicting the relationship between population size and genetic marker diversity. This work sparked an enormous research effort investigating the importance of population dynamics, in particular small population size, for population mean performance, population viability, and evolutionary potential. In light of a recent perspective [J. C. Teixeira, C. D. Huber, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 118, 10 (2021)] that challenges some fundamental assumptions in conservation genetics, it is timely to summarize what the field has achieved, what robust patterns have emerged, and worthwhile future research directions. We consider theory and methodological breakthroughs that have helped management, and we outline some fundamental and applied challenges for conservation genetics.}, }
@article {pmid34930523, year = {2021}, author = {Klump, BC and St Clair, JJ and Rutz, C}, title = {New Caledonian crows keep 'valuable' hooked tools safer than basic non-hooked tools.}, journal = {eLife}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {34930523}, issn = {2050-084X}, support = {BB/G023913/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/S018484/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/G023913/2/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Female ; Male ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The temporary storage and re-use of tools can significantly enhance foraging efficiency. New Caledonian crows in one of our study populations use two types of stick tools - hooked and non-hooked - which differ in raw material, manufacture costs, and foraging performance. Using a large sample of wild-caught, temporarily captive New Caledonian crows, we investigated experimentally whether individuals prefer one tool type over the other when given a choice and whether they take better care of their preferred tools between successive episodes of use, safely storing them underfoot or in nearby holes. Crows strongly preferred hooked stick tools made from Desmanthus virgatus stems over non-hooked stick tools. Importantly, this preference was also reflected in subsequent tool-handling behaviour, with subjects keeping hooked stick tools safe more often than non-hooked stick tools sourced from leaf litter. These results suggest that crows 'value' hooked stick tools, which are both costlier to procure and more efficient to use, more than non-hooked stick tools. Results from a series of control treatments suggested that crows altered their tool 'safekeeping' behaviour in response to a combination of factors, including tool type and raw material. To our knowledge, our study is the first to use safekeeping behaviour as a proxy for assessing how non-human animals value different tool types, establishing a novel paradigm for productive cross-taxonomic comparisons.}, }
@article {pmid34929801, year = {2021}, author = {Yani, SI and Seweng, A and Mallongi, A and Nur, R and Abdullah, MT and Salmah, U and Sirajuddin, S and Basir-Cyio, M and Mahfudz,  and Anshary, A}, title = {The influence of fluoride in drinking water on the incidence of fluorosis and intelligence of elementary school students in Palu City.}, journal = {Gaceta sanitaria}, volume = {35 Suppl 2}, number = {}, pages = {S159-S163}, doi = {10.1016/j.gaceta.2021.07.010}, pmid = {34929801}, issn = {1578-1283}, mesh = {Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Drinking Water ; Fluorides/adverse effects ; *Fluorosis, Dental/epidemiology/etiology ; Humans ; Incidence ; Intelligence ; Prevalence ; Schools ; Students ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This research aims to know the influence of fluoride in drinking water towards Fluorosis and the Intelligence Level of Elementary School Students in Palu City.<br><br>METHOD: This cross-sectional study was performed through descriptive analysis on 100 students aged 6-12 years old selected by stratified random sampling from two different areas with different levels of fluoride in drinking water in Palu City. The samples were collected from two different elementary schools which were SDN 2 Talise and SDN Inpres 1 Birobuli. The examination was performed by a dentist using Dean's Fluorosis Index and philology, who measured students' IQ using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: High level of F in drinking water affects the fluorosis status of students (p=0.001), in which among 40 students (40%) who experienced fluorosis, 38 (38%) of them are from the area whose F level is high. The high level of F also affected the children's IQ, obtaining a p-value of 0.001, showing that there were no students with low IQ found in the area with low F level. For the status of Fluorosis and IQ, p=0.001 was obtained. Among the 60 students who did not experience fluorosis, 96.6% of them had a high IQ level.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The recent research found that fluorosis was found more often in the area of which F level was high, where the IQ level of the students was found to be lower compared to the students who loved in the area with low F level.}, }
@article {pmid34915494, year = {2021}, author = {Satoh, M and Tabei, KI and Abe, M and Kamikawa, C and Fujita, S and Ota, Y}, title = {The Correlation between a New Online Cognitive Test (the Brain Assessment) and Widely Used In-Person Neuropsychological Tests.}, journal = {Dementia and geriatric cognitive disorders}, volume = {50}, number = {5}, pages = {473-481}, doi = {10.1159/000520521}, pmid = {34915494}, issn = {1421-9824}, mesh = {Aged ; Brain/diagnostic imaging ; *COVID-19 ; Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; SARS-CoV-2 ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: There are several problems with standard in-person neuropsychological assessments, such as habituation, necessity of human resources, and difficulty of in-person assessment under societal conditions during the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019. Thus, we developed an online cognitive test (the Brain Assessment [BA]). In this study, we investigated the correlation between the results of the BA and those of established neuropsychological tests.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: Seventy-seven elderly persons (mean 71.3 &#xb1; 5.1 years old; range 65-86; male:female = 45:32) were recruited through the internet. Correlations were evaluated between the BA and the following widely used neuropsychological tests: the mini-mental state examination (MMSE), the Raven's colored progressive matrices (RCPM), the logical memory I and II of the Rivermead Behavioral Memory Test, the word fluency (WF) test, and the Trail-Making TestA/B.<br><br>RESULTS: We found moderate correlations between the total cognitive score of the BA and the total score of the MMSE (r = 0.433, p < 0.001), as well as between the total BA score and the total RCPM score (r = 0.582, p < 0.001) and time to complete the RCPM (r = 0.455, p < 0.001). Moderate correlations were also observed between the cognitive score of the memory of words BA subtest and the LM-I (r = 0.518, p < 0.001), the mental rotation subtest and figure drawing (r = 0.404, p < 0.001), the logical reasoning subtest and total RCPM score (r = 0.491, p < 0.001), and the memory of numbers and words subtests and WF (memory of numbers and total WF: r = 0.456, p < 0.001; memory of words and total WF: r = 0.571, p < 0.001).<br><br>DISCUSSION: We found that the BA showed moderate correlations between established neuropsychological tests for intellect, memory, visuospatial function, and frontal function. The MMSE and the RCPM reflect Spearman's s-factor and g-factor, respectively, and thus the BA also covered both factors.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The BA is a useful tool for assessing the cognitive function of generally healthy elderly persons.}, }
@article {pmid34913110, year = {2022}, author = {Baciadonna, L and Cornero, FM and Clayton, NS and Emery, NJ}, title = {Mirror-mediated string-pulling task in Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {25}, number = {3}, pages = {691-700}, pmid = {34913110}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {TWCF0317//Templeton World Charity Foundation/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition ; *Parrots ; *Passeriformes ; Problem Solving ; Reward ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {Mirror tasks can be used to investigate whether animals can instrumentally use a mirror to solve problems and can understand the correspondence between reflections and the real objects they represent. Two bird species, a corvid (New Caledonian crow) and a parrot (African grey parrot), have demonstrated the ability to use mirrors instrumentally in mirror-mediated spatial locating tasks. However, they have not been challenged with a mirror-guided reaching task, which involves a more complex understanding of the mirror's properties. In the present study, a task approximating the mirror-guided reaching task used in primate studies was adapted for, and given to, a corvid species (Eurasian jay) using a horizontal string-pulling paradigm. Four birds learned to pull the correct string to retrieve a food reward when they could see the food directly, whereas none used the reflected information to accomplish the same objective. Based on these results, it cannot be concluded whether these birds understand the correspondence between the location of the reward and its reflected information, or if the relative lack of visual-perceptual motor feedback given by the setup interfered with their performance. This novel task is posited to be conceptually more difficult compared to mirror-mediated spatial locating tasks, and should be used in avian species that have previously been successful at using the mirror instrumentally. This would establish whether these species can still succeed at it, and thus whether the task does indeed pose additional cognitive demands.}, }
@article {pmid34912558, year = {2021}, author = {Atim, C and Bhushan, I and Blecher, M and Gandham, R and Rajan, V and Davén, J and Adeyi, O}, title = {Health financing reforms for Universal Health Coverage in five emerging economies.}, journal = {Journal of global health}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {16005}, pmid = {34912558}, issn = {2047-2986}, mesh = {Financing, Government ; Health Expenditures ; *Healthcare Financing ; Humans ; Medical Assistance ; *Universal Health Insurance ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Many countries have committed to achieving Universal Health Coverage. This paper summarizes selected health financing themes from five middle-income country case studies with incomplete progress towards UHC.<br><br>METHODS: The paper focuses on key flagship UHC programs in these countries, which exist along other publicly financed health delivery systems, reviewed through the lens of key health financing functions such as revenue raising, pooling and purchasing as well as governance and institutional arrangements.<br><br>RESULTS: There is variable progress across countries. Indonesia's Jaminan Kesehatan Nasional (JKN) reforms have made substantial progress in health services coverage and health financing indicators though challenges remain in its implementation. In contrast, Ghana has seen reduced funding levels for health and achieved less than 50% in the UHC service coverage index. In India, despite Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) reforms having provided important innovations in purchasing and public-private mix, out of pocket spending remains high and the public health financing level low. Kenya still has a challenge to use public financing to enhance coverage for the informal sector, while South Africa has made little progress in strategic purchasing.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Despite variations across countries, therefore, important challenges include inadequate financing, sub-optimal pooling, and unmet expectations in strategic purchasing. While complex federal systems may complicate the path forward for most of these countries, evidence of strong political commitment in some of these countries bodes well for further progress.}, }
@article {pmid34898162, year = {2021}, author = {Addae, A and Zahr, A and Jiang, L and Desai, S and Kononov, T}, title = {Clinical Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Tolerability of Cosmeceuticals Targeting the Dermal-Epidermal Junction.}, journal = {Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD}, volume = {20}, number = {12}, pages = {1314-1321}, doi = {10.36849/jdd.6355}, pmid = {34898162}, issn = {1545-9616}, mesh = {Administration, Cutaneous ; Aged ; *Cosmeceuticals ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Skin ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ), composed of rare proteins, plays a significant role in facial skin aging. A newly enhanced multi-ingredient anti-aging facial moisturizer (MFM) and eye cream (MEC) were formulated to target DEJ-related aging. The objective of this study is to assess the efficacy and tolerability of a dual-product regimen MFM and MEC as a treatment in improving intrinsically and extrinsically aged facial and periorbital skin.<br><br>METHOD: Forty-two female subjects, 42 to 65 years, Fitzpatrick skin type I&amp;ndash;VI, with mild to moderate droopy eyelids, moderate crow&rsquo;s feet wrinkles, and moderate global photodamage completed this institutional review board (IRB)-approved study. Subjects applied the MFM and MEC twice-daily for 12 weeks. Clinical grading of efficacy and tolerability parameters, VISIA&amp;reg;-CR imaging, image analysis of wrinkles, skin pH, Tewameter, and pinch recoil measurements were performed at baseline, weeks 4, 8, and 12. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging was performed at baseline and week 12.<br><br>RESULTS: Statistically significant improvement was shown in both clinically graded parameters and bio-instrumentational analyses at all time points. Both products were well tolerated by subjects.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This IRB-approved clinical study demonstrated effectiveness in improving intrinsic and extrinsic signs of the global face and periorbital eye area aging after twelve weeks of twice-daily application. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(12):1314-1321. doi:10.36849/JDD.6355.}, }
@article {pmid34898049, year = {2022}, author = {Yamaguchi, E and Fujii, K and Kayano, M and Sakurai, Y and Nakatani, A and Sasaki, M and Hertl, JA and Grohn, YT}, title = {Is Salmonella enterica shared between wildlife and cattle in cattle farming areas? An 11-year retrospective study in Tokachi district, Hokkaido, Japan.}, journal = {Veterinary medicine and science}, volume = {8}, number = {2}, pages = {758-770}, pmid = {34898049}, issn = {2053-1095}, mesh = {Agriculture ; Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Cattle ; Farms ; Japan/epidemiology ; Retrospective Studies ; *Salmonella Infections, Animal/epidemiology ; *Salmonella enterica/genetics ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Salmonella enterica in cattle has long been problematic and suspected to be transmitted by wildlife in Tokachi, Hokkaido, a major cattle farming area in Japan. Understanding the role of wildlife in S. enterica transmission would be helpful for developing control strategies of bovine salmonellosis.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: We aimed to elucidate the possibility of S. enterica transmission between sympatric wildlife, including raccoons and crows and cattle, in Tokachi from 2008 to 2018 by analysing S. enterica detection records, and the genetic relatedness of serotypes shared between wildlife and cattle.<br><br>METHODS: S. enterica detection records were based on the results of a field survey and existing cattle records at relevant organisations, including clinical reports, a monitoring survey and quarantine for introduced calves at growing farms and public calving farms. S. enterica was identified by polymerase chain reaction assay and serotyped by agglutination assay. The detection records were organised chronologically to investigate whether common serotypes in wildlife and cattle were detected in the same year. The isolates corresponding to detection records were assessed for their genetic patterns by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis.<br><br>RESULTS: The prevalence of S. enterica in raccoons and crows was 10.7% (17/159) and 5.7% (55/967), respectively. The following serotypes were detected from both wildlife and cattle: Braenderup, Dublin, Infantis, Mbandaka, Montevideo, 4,[5],12:i:- and Typhimurium. Genetically similar isolates for S. Braenderup, S. Dublin, S. Montevideo and S. 4,[5],12:i:- were detected from both species in the same year.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our long-term retrospective observations supported that S. enterica was shared between wildlife and cattle. Wildlife invasions should be controlled at farms to prevent inter-species transmission of S. enterica from livestock farms.}, }
@article {pmid34878289, year = {2021}, author = {Baune, C and Wolfe, LL and Schott, KC and Griffin, KA and Hughson, AG and Miller, MW and Race, B}, title = {Reduction of Chronic Wasting Disease Prion Seeding Activity following Digestion by Mountain Lions.}, journal = {mSphere}, volume = {6}, number = {6}, pages = {e0081221}, pmid = {34878289}, issn = {2379-5042}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Assay ; Brain/metabolism ; Feces/chemistry ; Prions/*metabolism ; Puma/*metabolism ; Wasting Disease, Chronic/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a transmissible prion disease first observed in the 1960s in North America. This invariably fatal disease affects multiple cervid species in the wild and in captivity. In addition to the several known transmission pathways involving cervid host species, prions have been detected in the feces of crows and coyotes after consumption of experimentally spiked tissues. This raises questions about the role of cervid consumers in the perpetuation of CWD. Mountain lions have been shown to preferentially select CWD-infected prey and are also apparently resistant to infection. In this study, two captive mountain lions were fed ground mule deer muscle tissue spiked with brain-derived CWD prions, and lion feces were collected for 1 week afterward. The input brain and resulting fecal materials were analyzed using the highly sensitive real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC) assay to quantify prion seeding activity. We recovered only 2.8 to 3.9% of input CWD prions after passage through the mountain lions' gastrointestinal tracts. Interestingly, CWD prions were shed only in the first defecation following consumption. Our data support the possibility that mountain lions feeding upon infected carcasses could excrete CWD prions in their feces over a short period of time but also suggest that most of the ingested prions are eliminated or sequestered by this large predator. IMPORTANCE CWD prions appear to spread naturally among susceptible cervid species in captivity and in the wild. A better understanding of all the ways these prions move, persist, and subsequently infect target species through the environment is critical to developing comprehensive disease control strategies. In our study, we show limited, transient pass-through of CWD prions in an apex predator, the mountain lion, using the highly sensitive RT-QuIC assay on feces collected after lions were fed prion-spiked muscle tissue. Prions were detected in feces only in the first defecation after exposure. Moreover, the amount of CWD prions recovered in feces was reduced by >96% after passing through the lion digestive system. This indicates that mountain lions may have some potential to distribute CWD prions within their home ranges but that they also effectively eliminate most of the CWD prions they consume.}, }
@article {pmid34875182, year = {2021}, author = {Martin, RJ and Martin, GK and Roberts, WA and Sherry, DF}, title = {No evidence for future planning in Canada jays (Perisoreus canadensis).}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {17}, number = {12}, pages = {20210504}, pmid = {34875182}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Animals ; Canada ; Feeding Behavior ; Food ; Humans ; *Passeriformes ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {In the past 20 years, research in animal cognition has challenged the belief that complex cognitive processes are uniquely human. At the forefront of these challenges has been research on mental time travel and future planning in jays. We tested whether Canada jays (Perisoreus canadensis) demonstrated future planning, using a procedure that has produced evidence of future planning in California scrub-jays. Future planning in this procedure is caching in locations where the bird will predictably experience a lack of food in the future. Canada jays showed no evidence of future planning in this sense and instead cached in the location where food was usually available, opposite to the behaviour described for California scrub-jays. We provide potential explanations for these differing results adding to the recent debates about the role of complex cognition in corvid caching strategies.}, }
@article {pmid34867521, year = {2021}, author = {Bartonek, &#xc5; and Guariglia, C and Piccardi, L}, title = {Locomotion and Topographical Working Memory in Children With Myelomeningocele and Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychiatry}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {729859}, pmid = {34867521}, issn = {1664-0640}, abstract = {Background: In children with myelomeningocele (MMC) and arthrogryposis multiplex congenital (AMC), adequate rehabilitation measures are accessible with the goal of attaining the utmost motor development. However, there is a lack of knowledge as to how children develop navigation utilizing their locomotion abilities. The aim of the present study was to explore topographic working memory in children with MMC and AMC. Methods: For this purpose, we assessed 41 children with MMC and AMC, assigned an ambulation group, and 120 typical developing (TD) children, with mean ages of 11.9, 10.6, and 9.9 years, respectively. All groups performed a topographic working memory test while moving in a walking space and a visuospatial working memory test in a reaching space. Children with MMC and AMC also performed a test to measure their ability to reason on visuospatial material, Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices. Results: The topographic working memory span was shorter in the MMC group than in the TD group. In general, all ambulation groups had a shorter topographic working memory span than the TD group. The visuospatial working memory span was shorter in the non-ambulation group than in the TD group. Scores from the visuospatial reasoning test were lower in the non-ambulation group than in the community ambulation group. Conclusions: Even though a higher cognitive score was found in the community ambulation group than in the non-ambulation group, topographic working memory was affected similarly in both groups. Including children who develop community ambulation in therapy programs containing aspects of navigation may gain even children with low levels of MMC and AMC. These results evidenced the importance of motor development and navigational experience gained through direct exploration of the environment on topographic memory.}, }
@article {pmid34867472, year = {2021}, author = {Pendergraft, LT and Marzluff, JM and Cross, DJ and Shimizu, T and Templeton, CN}, title = {American Crow Brain Activity in Response to Conspecific Vocalizations Changes When Food Is Present.}, journal = {Frontiers in physiology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {766345}, pmid = {34867472}, issn = {1664-042X}, abstract = {Social interaction among animals can occur under many contexts, such as during foraging. Our knowledge of the regions within an avian brain associated with social interaction is limited to the regions activated by a single context or sensory modality. We used 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) to examine American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) brain activity in response to conditions associated with communal feeding. Using a paired approach, we exposed crows to either a visual stimulus (the sight of food), an audio stimulus (the sound of conspecifics vocalizing while foraging) or both audio/visual stimuli presented simultaneously and compared to their brain activity in response to a control stimulus (an empty stage). We found two regions, the nucleus taenia of the amygdala (TnA) and a medial portion of the caudal nidopallium, that showed increased activity in response to the multimodal combination of stimuli but not in response to either stimulus when presented unimodally. We also found significantly increased activity in the lateral septum and medially within the nidopallium in response to both the audio-only and the combined audio/visual stimuli. We did not find any differences in activation in response to the visual stimulus by itself. We discuss how these regions may be involved in the processing of multimodal stimuli in the context of social interaction.}, }
@article {pmid34865301, year = {2022}, author = {Pavicic, T and Pooth, R and Prinz, V and Cajkovsky, M and Green, JB and Hernandez, CA and Mueller, DS and Sattler, S and Klepetko, H and Day, D and Kerscher, M and Suwanchinda, A and Cotofana, S and Frank, K and Fabi, SG}, title = {Validated 5-point photonumeric scales for the assessment of the periorbital region.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {21}, number = {1}, pages = {158-166}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.14643}, pmid = {34865301}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//Croma Pharma GmbH/ ; }, mesh = {Face ; Humans ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The objective of this investigation was to create and validate 5-point photonumeric scales for the assessment of dynamic crow's feet, static crow's feet, and infraorbital hollows.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: Three novel 5-point photonumeric scales were created by a medical team. A total of 12 raters from all over the world performed a digital validation, and a total of 5 raters a live validation of the created scale.<br><br>RESULTS: The statistical analysis revealed almost perfect intra-rater and inter-rater reliability in the digital validation of the scales for the assessment of static and dynamic crow's feet as well as infraorbital hollows. In the live validation, both crow's feet scales showed almost perfect intra-rater reliability, while the Croma Infraorbital Hollow Assessment Scale showed substantial intra-rater reliability. Inter-rater reliability was substantial for all three scales in the live validation. All three scales, the Croma Dynamic Crow's Feet Assessment Scale, Croma Static Crow's Feet Assessment Scale, and Croma Infraorbital Hollow Assessment Scale, were validated digitally and in a live setting.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The created scales to assess infraorbital hollowing, dynamic and static crow's feet have been shown to provide substantial to almost perfect agreement in the digital and live validation and can thus be considered as helpful tools in the clinical and research setting. While technical methods and appliances to assess the degrees of severity of age-dependent features are advancing, validated scales are of great importance due to their ease of use and, as shown by the validations, reliability, and reproducibility.}, }
@article {pmid34859781, year = {2021}, author = {Hahn, LA and Balakhonov, D and Fongaro, E and Nieder, A and Rose, J}, title = {Working memory capacity of crows and monkeys arises from similar neuronal computations.}, journal = {eLife}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {34859781}, issn = {2050-084X}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Macaca mulatta/*physiology ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Neurons/*physiology ; Prefrontal Cortex/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Complex cognition relies on flexible working memory, which is severely limited in its capacity. The neuronal computations underlying these capacity limits have been extensively studied in humans and in monkeys, resulting in competing theoretical models. We probed the working memory capacity of crows (Corvus corone) in a change detection task, developed for monkeys (Macaca mulatta), while we performed extracellular recordings of the prefrontal-like area nidopallium caudolaterale. We found that neuronal encoding and maintenance of information were affected by item load, in a way that is virtually identical to results obtained from monkey prefrontal cortex. Contemporary neurophysiological models of working memory employ divisive normalization as an important mechanism that may result in the capacity limitation. As these models are usually conceptualized and tested in an exclusively mammalian context, it remains unclear if they fully capture a general concept of working memory or if they are restricted to the mammalian neocortex. Here, we report that carrion crows and macaque monkeys share divisive normalization as a neuronal computation that is in line with mammalian models. This indicates that computational models of working memory developed in the mammalian cortex can also apply to non-cortical associative brain regions of birds.}, }
@article {pmid34847753, year = {2021}, author = {Luo, Y and Zhang, L and Song, R and Zhu, C and Yang, J and Badami, B}, title = {Optimized lung tumor diagnosis system using enhanced version of crow search algorithm, Zernike moments, and support vector machine.}, journal = {Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. Part H, Journal of engineering in medicine}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {9544119211055870}, doi = {10.1177/09544119211055870}, pmid = {34847753}, issn = {2041-3033}, abstract = {Early detection of lung tumors is so important to heal this disease in the initial steps. Automatic computer-aided detection of this disease is a good method for reducing human mistakes and improving detection precision. The major concept here is to propose the best CAD system for lung tumor detection. In the presented technique, after pre-processing and segmentation of the lung area, its features including different orders of Zernike moments have been extracted. After features extraction, they have been injected into an optimized version of Support Vector Machine (SVM) for final diagnosis. The optimization of the SVM is based on an enhanced design of the Crow Search Algorithm (ECSA). For validating the proposed method, it was applied to three datasets including Lung CT-Diagnosis, TCIA, and RIDER Lung CT collection, and the results are validated by comparing with three state-of-the-art methods including Walwalker method, Mon method, and Naik method to indicate the system superiority toward the compared methods. The system is also analyzed based on different orders of Zernike moment to select the best order. The final results indicate that the suggested method has a suitable accuracy for diagnosing lung cancer.}, }
@article {pmid34840655, year = {2021}, author = {Barbarino, SC and van Loghem, JAJ and Burgess, CM and Corduff, N}, title = {Evaluating the Effect of Incobotulinumtoxin A for Glabellar, Forehead, and Crow's Feet Lines Using A High Dilution.}, journal = {The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology}, volume = {14}, number = {8}, pages = {34-40}, pmid = {34840655}, issn = {1941-2789}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: As aesthetic preferences have evolved and patients wish their muscles to be relaxed, but not frozen, a higher dilution of incobotulinumtoxinA (INCO) has allowed for increased spread using fewer units, yet no studies to date have investigated the efficacy, longevity, and safety of hyperdiluted INCO.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the effect of incobotulinumtoxinA (INCO) in glabellar, forehead, and lateral periorbital lines using a high dilution.<br><br>METHODS: Subjects with moderate-to-severe upper facial lines at rest according to the Merz Aesthetics Scales[&#x2122;] (Merz Pharmaceuticals GmbH, Frankfurt am Main, Germany) received 15U of INCO to the glabellar (n=4 injection sites), 10U to the rest of the forehead (n=10 injection sites), and 5U to the lateral periorbital lines (n=3 injection sites/eye). Primary outcomes were physician- and subject-rated improvement at one month using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) and changes in line severity using the Merz Aesthetics Scales[&#x2122;].<br><br>RESULTS: The study included 15 women aged 35 to 65 years. At one month, physician GAIS scores indicated 91.2% of subjects were very much improved and 8.8% were much improved; 91.5%, 78.0%, and 57.6% of participants remained at least improved at four, five, and six months, respectively. Subject GAIS scores at one month were in agreement with physician scores. At one month, an improvement of at least one point in Merz Aesthetics Scales[&#x2122;] scores in glabellar, forehead, and lateral periorbital lines was reported in 88.9%, 98.3%, and 94.8% of participants, respectively. Subject satisfaction was high throughout the study. No treatment-related adverse events were observed.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Hyperdilute INCO was effective at improving overall appearance and reducing line severity in individuals with moderate-to-severe upper facial lines. Patient satisfaction was maintained up to six months and treatment was well tolerated.}, }
@article {pmid34827989, year = {2021}, author = {Juozaitytė-Ngugu, E and Švažas, S and Šneideris, D and Rudaitytė-Lukošienė, E and Butkauskas, D and Prakas, P}, title = {The Role of Birds of the Family Corvidae in Transmitting Sarcocystis Protozoan Parasites.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {11}, number = {11}, pages = {}, pmid = {34827989}, issn = {2076-2615}, support = {S-MIP-20-24//Lietuvos Mokslo Taryba/ ; }, abstract = {Members of the family Corvidae are ecologically flexible omnivorous birds, particularly adaptive to urban habitats, and living in proximity to humans; these birds may serve as definitive hosts (DH) for Sarcocystis spp., but research about this is lacking. In the present study, intestinal samples from 91 corvids collected in Lithuania were molecularly tested by species-specific PCR targeting the ITS1 and cox1 genes and subsequently sequenced for the presence of Sarcocystis spp. Under a light microscope, oocysts of Sarcocystis spp. were observed in 43 samples (47.3%), while molecular methods, detected Sarcocystis spp. in 77 birds (84.6%). Eleven Sarcocystis spp. (S. columbae, S. cornixi, potentially pathogenic S. halieti, S. kutkienae, S. lari, S. turdusi, S. wobeseri, S. arctica, S. lutrae, S. ovalis, and S. oviformis) were identified in the intestinal samples from six corvid species from Lithuania. Infections with multiple Sarcocystis spp. were detected in 79.2% of the infected corvid birds. Three of the identified Sarcocystis spp. use corvids as intermediate hosts (IH); therefore, corvids may serve as IH and DH of the same Sarcocystis species. Based on molecular results and on corvid diet, omnivorous corvids may play an important role in transmitting Sarcocystis spp.}, }
@article {pmid34827957, year = {2021}, author = {Benmazouz, I and Jokimäki, J and Lengyel, S and Juhász, L and Kaisanlahti-Jokimäki, ML and Kardos, G and Paládi, P and Kövér, L}, title = {Corvids in Urban Environments: A Systematic Global Literature Review.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {11}, number = {11}, pages = {}, pmid = {34827957}, issn = {2076-2615}, support = {SH-00355-004/2019//Stipendium Hungaricum program/ ; NKFIH-OTKA K134391//National Research, Development, and Innovation Office of Hungary/ ; }, abstract = {Urbanization is one of the most prevalent drivers of biodiversity loss, yet few taxonomic groups are remarkably successful at adapting to urban environments. We systematically surveyed the global literature on the effects of urbanization on species of family Corvidae (crows, choughs, jackdaws, jays, magpies, nutcrackers, ravens, rooks, treepies) to assess the occurrence of corvids in urban environments and the factors affecting their success. We found a total of 424 primary research articles, and the number of articles has increased exponentially since the 1970s. Most studies were carried out in cities of Europe and North America (45.5% and 31.4%, respectively) and were directed on a single species (75.2). We found that 30 corvid species (23% of 133 total) regularly occur in urban environments. The majority (72%) of the studies reported positive effects of urbanization on corvids, with 85% of studies detecting population increases and 64% of studies detecting higher breeding success with urbanization. Of the factors proposed to explain corvids' success (availability of nesting sites and food sources, low predation and persecution), food availability coupled with diet shifts emerged as the most important factors promoting Corvidae to live in urban settings. The breeding of corvids in urban environments was further associated with earlier nesting, similar or larger clutches, lower hatching but higher fledging success, reduced home range size and limited territoriality, increased tolerance towards humans and increasing frequency of conflicts with humans. Despite geographic and taxonomic biases in our literature sample, our review indicates that corvids show both flexibility in resource use and behavioral plasticity that enable them to exploit novel resources for nesting and feeding. Corvids can thus be urban exploiters of the large-scale modifications of ecosystems caused by urbanization.}, }
@article {pmid34827796, year = {2021}, author = {Schneider, S and Goettlich, S and Diercks, C and Dierkes, PW}, title = {Discrimination of Acoustic Stimuli and Maintenance of Graded Alarm Call Structure in Captive Meerkats.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {11}, number = {11}, pages = {}, pmid = {34827796}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {Animals living in human care for several generations face the risk of losing natural behaviors, which can lead to reduced animal welfare. The goal of this study is to demonstrate that meerkats (Suricata suricatta) living in zoos can assess potential danger and respond naturally based on acoustic signals only. This includes that the graded information of urgency in alarm calls as well as a response to those alarm calls is retained in captivity. To test the response to acoustic signals with different threat potential, meerkats were played calls of various animals differing in size and threat (e.g., robin, raven, buzzard, jackal) while their behavior was observed. The emitted alarm calls were recorded and examined for their graded structure on the one hand and played back to them on the other hand by means of a playback experiment to see whether the animals react to their own alarm calls even in the absence of danger. A fuzzy clustering algorithm was used to analyze and classify the alarm calls. Subsequently, the features that best described the graded structure were isolated using the LASSO algorithm and compared to features already known from wild meerkats. The results show that the graded structure is maintained in captivity and can be described by features such as noise and duration. The animals respond to new threats and can distinguish animal calls that are dangerous to them from those that are not, indicating the preservation of natural cooperative behavior. In addition, the playback experiments show that the meerkats respond to their own alarm calls with vigilance and escape behavior. The findings can be used to draw conclusions about the intensity of alertness in captive meerkats and to adapt husbandry conditions to appropriate welfare.}, }
@article {pmid34825760, year = {2022}, author = {Ma, Y and Li, C and Mai, Z and Yang, J and Tai, M and Leng, G}, title = {Efficacy and safety testing of dissolving microarray patches in Chinese subjects.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {21}, number = {8}, pages = {3496-3502}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.14594}, pmid = {34825760}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {China ; *Cosmetics/adverse effects ; Female ; Humans ; *Hyaluronic Acid/adverse effects ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: There is a lack of clinical research in the Chinese market concerning dissolving microarray (DMA) patches in cosmetic applications. In this study, the clinical efficacy and safety tests of DMA patch technology were performed on Chinese consumers.<br><br>METHODS: A 4-week clinical efficacy and safety evaluation was conducted on 30 Chinese female subjects with crow's feet and eye bags. DMA patches loaded with hyaluronic acid (HA-DMA) were applied under the eyes and corners of the eyes of the subjects three times a week over four consecutive weeks. Skin firmness and dermal layer strength were measured using ultrasound, and changes in skin wrinkles were detected using VISIA-CR and Primos Lite. Eye bag ratings were evaluated by professional dermatologists based on the 0-6 grades of eye bags in the "Skin Aging Atlas Volume 2: Asian Type."<br><br>RESULTS: HA-DMA patches produced good clinical improvements on both crow's feet and eye bags in the study participants. HA-DMA effectively increased skin firmness while reducing the number, area, and volume of crow's feet, along with reducing eye bag ratings. The reductions in all metrics were statistically significant with positive effects evident in as little as 1&#xa0;week of treatment. There were no adverse effects related to the treatments observed during the test period.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In a clinical efficacy trial of 30 Chinese female subjects, HA-DMA showed excellent therapeutic benefits without adverse effects while reducing crow's feet and eye bags. HA-DMA is expected to be a safe, effective, and novel cosmetic for improving the appearance of aging skin.}, }
@article {pmid34817909, year = {2022}, author = {Yang, F and Zhou, Z and Guo, M and Zhou, Z}, title = {The study of skin hydration, anti-wrinkles function improvement of anti-aging cream with alpha-ketoglutarate.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {21}, number = {4}, pages = {1736-1743}, pmid = {34817909}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Aging ; Humans ; Ketoglutaric Acids/pharmacology ; Nasolabial Fold ; Skin ; *Skin Aging ; Skin Cream ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle is a key metabolic pathway for driving the generation of mitochondrial energy in all oxidative organisms. Alpha-ketoglutarate (Alpha-KG), a precursor of glutamine, is known as a crucial intermediate of the TCA cycle and plays a pivotal role in multiple metabolic processes. As a precursor of glutamate and glutamine, AKG acts as an antioxidant agent as it directly reacts with hydrogen peroxide with formation of succinate, water, and carbon dioxide; meanwhile, it discharges plenty of ATP by oxidative decarboxylation. Several studies reported that Alpha-KG is a key participant in the detoxification of reactive oxygen species and acts as an integral part of the oxidative defense machinery. However, few studies have been reported on the efficacy of Alpha-KG in the maintenance of skin functions. This study demonstrated that Alpha-KG has beneficial effects on skin hydration and barrier function and that fermentation is an effective way to enhance the synthesis of Alpha-KG in yeast, which possesses mitochondria.<br><br>METHODS: Evaluation of promoting effects on epidermal keratinocyte proliferation: Keratinocytes were incubated with a test sample, and the degree of proliferation was determined by MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] assay. Evaluation of promoting effects on mRNA expression of genes related to skin hydration and barrier function: Keratinocytes were incubated with a test sample, and gene expression levels of filaggrin (FLG), serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT), and involucrin (IVL) were analyzed by real-time RT-PCR. Analysis of Alpha-KG in rice fermented liquid: Alpha-KG in rice fermented liquid was quantitatively analyzed by capillary electrophoresis time-of-flight mass spectrometry (CE-TOF-MS). Clinical study testing methods and VISIA testing: After 28&#xa0;days of treatment use the cream with Alpha-KG and control sample without Alpha-KG, instrumentation measurements were adopted to assess skin wrinkles, texture, elasticity, and firmness, tested by the VISIA-CR.<br><br>RESULTS: Immediately after using the sample for D0, the skin wrinkles were significantly reduced by 23.64%. After using the sample for D7, the average clinical score of outer corner wrinkles was significantly reduced by 15.23%, and nasolabial groove wrinkles were significantly reduced by 25.68%. After using the sample for D56, the mean clinical evaluation score of crow's feet decreased significantly by 25.42%; the average score of clinical evaluation of skin firmness increased significantly by 41.40%; the skin gloss increased significantly by 28.67%.<br><br>CONCLUSION: It was demonstrated that Alpha-KG is expected to promote skin hydration and barrier function by the activation of cell proliferation and the up-regulation of mRNA expression of genes related to the maintenance of epidermal function in in vitro tests. In order to develop a cosmetic ingredient including Alpha-KG, we focused on fermentation with yeast as an efficient production method of Alpha-KG and found that fermentation of rice with yeast efficiently produced Alpha-KG. Taken together, it is considered that rice fermented liquid containing Alpha-KG could be a promising ingredient for skin care products. Through the clinical testing, rice fermented liquid containing Alpha-KG could be a promising cosmetic ingredient for skin care products.}, }
@article {pmid34813525, year = {2022}, author = {Leopold, SS}, title = {A Conversation with … Jay Nordlinger, the Writer Who Sees Both Sides.}, journal = {Clinical orthopaedics and related research}, volume = {480}, number = {2}, pages = {217-219}, pmid = {34813525}, issn = {1528-1132}, mesh = {*Communication ; *Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; Humans ; *Journalism ; Male ; *Periodicals as Topic ; *Physician-Patient Relations ; }, }
@article {pmid34806292, year = {2022}, author = {Ye, Y and Li, Y and Bi, T and Jiang, L}, title = {Improvement of urban eye skin in Chinese female by supramolecular retinol plus acmella oleracea extract-containing product.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {21}, number = {8}, pages = {3416-3422}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.14621}, pmid = {34806292}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//Proya Cosmetics Co., Ltd./ ; }, mesh = {Asian People ; *Asteraceae ; China ; Eye ; Female ; Humans ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; Vitamin A ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Studies on the anti-wrinkle effects of retinol have been widely reported, but there are few reports on the infraorbital dark circles reducing effects.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficiency and tolerance of one novel formulation containing supramolecular retinol plus acmella oleracea extract in Chinese urban eye skin.<br><br>METHODS: Thirty-three women with dark circles and visible fine wrinkles around the eyes, aged 20-45&#xa0;years, were enrolled and instructed to use the formula for 6&#xa0;weeks. Instrumental measures and subject assessment were obtained at baseline and at 3-week intervals.<br><br>RESULTS: After 6&#xa0;weeks, Mexameter MX18 results demonstrated a statistically significant 13.8% decrease in MI (melanin index) value, and Colorimeter CL400 results demonstrated a statistically significant 0.5% increase in L* (lightness) value, which proved the efficacy of reducing dark circles. Primos-Lite data showed that the wrinkles parameters of Ra, the wrinkle area %, and number of the wrinkles under the eyes and crow's feet revealed significant reduction to varying degrees. Cutometer results showed that R2 value increased significantly by 13.0%, indicating the benefits of firmer skin. In addition, subject assessment revealed that at the end of 6&#xa0;weeks, the eye skin was noticeably improved.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: By clinical evaluation and subject assessment, the novel formulation containing supramolecular retinol plus acmella oleracea extract can effectively diminish the collective signs of stressed urban eye skin for Chinese female in terms of dark circles, fine wrinkles, and sagging skin with good tolerance.}, }
@article {pmid34803129, year = {2022}, author = {Kishimoto, T and Kato, K and Ashizawa, K and Kurihara, Y and Tokuyama, T and Sakai, F}, title = {A retrospective study on radiological findings of diffuse pleural thickening with benign asbestos pleural effusion in Japanese cases.}, journal = {Industrial health}, volume = {60}, number = {5}, pages = {429-435}, pmid = {34803129}, issn = {1880-8026}, mesh = {*Asbestos/adverse effects ; *Asbestosis ; Humans ; Japan ; *Pleural Diseases/diagnostic imaging ; *Pleural Effusion/diagnostic imaging ; Retrospective Studies ; }, abstract = {The requirement for compensation for diffuse pleural thickening in benign asbestos pleural effusion include five computed tomography findings of organized pleural effusion: [1] heterogeneity in the pleural effusion, [2] declined chest capacity, [3] "crow's feet" sign at the pleura, [4] immobilization of effusion volume, and [5] air in the effusion. Pleural effusion is diagnosed as organized, immobilized, and in the state of diffuse pleural thickening if at least three of these items are fulfilled, ([1] and [3] compulsory + one of the remaining items). This retrospective study investigated whether the requirement to confirm no organized pleural effusion changes after a follow-up of >3 months were available for cases fulfilling three of the five items; i.e., the confirmation of only [2] with [1] and [3]. Of 302 cases recognized by the Japanese laws, 105 cases with diffuse pleural thickening with organized effusion were enrolled. The number of subjects who fulfilled the diagnostic requirement for organized pleural effusion was confirmed. Eight subjects had a full score of 5 points, 82 subjects scored 4 points, and only 15 subjects scored 3 points. Furthermore, no changes were observed in the organized pleural effusion volume after a follow-up of >3 months.}, }
@article {pmid34793696, year = {2022}, author = {Miller, R and Lambert, ML and Frohnwieser, A and Brecht, KF and Bugnyar, T and Crampton, I and Garcia-Pelegrin, E and Gould, K and Greggor, AL and Izawa, EI and Kelly, DM and Li, Z and Luo, Y and Luong, LB and Massen, JJM and Nieder, A and Reber, SA and Schiestl, M and Seguchi, A and Sepehri, P and Stevens, JR and Taylor, AH and Wang, L and Wolff, LM and Zhang, Y and Clayton, NS}, title = {Socio-ecological correlates of neophobia in corvids.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {32}, number = {1}, pages = {74-85.e4}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2021.10.045}, pmid = {34793696}, issn = {1879-0445}, support = {P 33960/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; W 1262/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Fear ; Humans ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Behavioral responses to novelty, including fear and subsequent avoidance of novel stimuli, i.e., neophobia, determine how animals interact with their environment. Neophobia aids in navigating risk and impacts on adaptability and survival. There is variation within and between individuals and species; however, lack of large-scale, comparative studies critically limits investigation of the socio-ecological drivers of neophobia. In this study, we tested responses to novel objects and food (alongside familiar food) versus a baseline (familiar food alone) in 10 corvid species (241 subjects) across 10 labs worldwide. There were species differences in the latency to touch familiar food in the novel object and novel food conditions relative to the baseline. Four of seven socio-ecological factors influenced object neophobia: (1) use of urban habitat (versus not), (2) territorial pair versus family group sociality, (3) large versus small maximum flock size, and (4) moderate versus specialized caching (whereas range, hunting live animals, and genus did not), while only maximum flock size influenced food neophobia. We found that, overall, individuals were temporally and contextually repeatable (i.e., consistent) in their novelty responses in all conditions, indicating neophobia is a stable behavioral trait. With this study, we have established a network of corvid researchers, demonstrating potential for further collaboration to explore the evolution of cognition in corvids and other bird species. These novel findings enable us, for the first time in corvids, to identify the socio-ecological correlates of neophobia and grant insight into specific elements that drive higher neophobic responses in this avian family group. VIDEO ABSTRACT.}, }
@article {pmid34768843, year = {2021}, author = {Ling, J and Huang, X and Jia, Y and Li, W and Zhang, X}, title = {The Overexpression of NUC Promotes Development and Increases Resistance to Nitrogen Deficiency in Arabidopsis thaliana.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {22}, number = {21}, pages = {}, pmid = {34768843}, issn = {1422-0067}, support = {2017FB057//Yunnan Applied Basic Research Project/ ; 2017AB001//Yunnan Applied Basic Research Project/ ; }, mesh = {Arabidopsis/genetics/metabolism ; Arabidopsis Proteins/genetics/*metabolism ; Carrier Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Chlorophyll/metabolism ; Gene Expression/genetics ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant/genetics ; Nitrogen/*deficiency/metabolism ; Plant Leaves/metabolism ; Plant Roots/metabolism ; Plants, Genetically Modified/genetics ; Seedlings/metabolism ; Stress, Physiological/genetics ; Transcription Factors/genetics/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {NUTCRACKER (NUC) is a transcription factor expressed in multiple tissues, but little is known about its physiological roles. In this study, we explored the physiological function of NUC with the Arabidopsis knockout, rescue, and overexpression lines. We found that NUC overexpression promoted development at the germination, seedling, and juvenile stages. NUC overexpression increased resistance to nitrogen (N) deficiency stress by increasing the chlorophyll content, suppressing anthocyanin accumulation, and increasing the biomass under N deficiency. In contrast, the absence of NUC did not affect such characteristics. N deficiency significantly increased the expression of NUC in leaves but did not affect the expression of NUC in roots. The overexpression of NUC promoted primary root length under both normal and N deficiency conditions. Furthermore, we found that the N-responsive and lateral-root-related genes TGA1 and NRT2.4 had NUC-binding sites in their promoter regions and that their expression was upregulated by NUC under N deficiency. The overexpression of the NUC increased the number and length of the lateral roots under N deficiency through inducible promotion. Multiple lines of investigation suggest that the regulatory function of the NUC could be bypassed through its redundant MAGPIE (MGP) when the NUC is absent. Our findings provide novel insight into NUC's functions and will assist efforts to improve plants' development and resistance to nutrient stresses.}, }
@article {pmid34764369, year = {2021}, author = {See, K and Kadonosono, T and Miyamoto, K and Tsubaki, T and Ota, Y and Katsumi, M and Ryo, S and Aida, K and Minegishi, M and Isozaki, T and Kuchimaru, T and Kizaka-Kondoh, S}, title = {Antibody-guided design and identification of CD25-binding small antibody mimetics using mammalian cell surface display.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {22098}, pmid = {34764369}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {JP19ak0101098h0002//Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development/ ; }, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/*immunology ; Antibody Affinity/immunology ; Cell Line ; Cell Line, Tumor ; Cell Surface Display Techniques/*methods ; Flow Cytometry/methods ; HEK293 Cells ; HeLa Cells ; Humans ; Interleukin-2 Receptor alpha Subunit/*immunology ; K562 Cells ; Mammals/*immunology ; Peptide Library ; Protein Binding/*immunology ; }, abstract = {Small antibody mimetics that contain high-affinity target-binding peptides can be lower cost alternatives to monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). We have recently developed a method to create small antibody mimetics called FLuctuation-regulated Affinity Proteins (FLAPs), which consist of a small protein scaffold with a structurally immobilized target-binding peptide. In this study, to further develop this method, we established a novel screening system for FLAPs called monoclonal antibody-guided peptide identification and engineering (MAGPIE), in which a mAb guides selection in two manners. First, antibody-guided design allows construction of a peptide library that is relatively small in size, but sufficient to identify high-affinity binders in a single selection round. Second, in antibody-guided screening, the fluorescently labeled mAb is used to select mammalian cells that display FLAP candidates with high affinity for the target using fluorescence-activated cell sorting. We demonstrate the reliability and efficacy of MAGPIE using daclizumab, a mAb against human interleukin-2 receptor alpha chain (CD25). Three FLAPs identified by MAGPIE bound CD25 with dissociation constants of approximately 30 nM as measured by biolayer interferometry without undergoing affinity maturation. MAGPIE can be broadly adapted to any mAb to develop small antibody mimetics.}, }
@article {pmid34755845, year = {2021}, author = {Huang, XF and Reardon, KF}, title = {Quorum-sensing molecules increase ethanol yield from Saccharomyces cerevisiae.}, journal = {FEMS yeast research}, volume = {21}, number = {8}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1093/femsyr/foab056}, pmid = {34755845}, issn = {1567-1364}, support = {//National Renewable Energy Laboratory/ ; DE-AC36-08-GO28308//U.S. Department of Energy/ ; //U.S. Department of Energy/ ; //Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy/ ; //Bioenergy Technologies Office/ ; 1.3.5.270//WBS/ ; }, mesh = {Ethanol ; Fermentation ; Quorum Sensing ; *Saccharomyces cerevisiae/metabolism ; *Saccharomyces cerevisiae Proteins/metabolism ; }, abstract = {One strategy to increase the yield of desired fermentation products is to redirect substrate carbon from biomass synthesis. Nongenetic approaches to alter metabolism may have advantages of general applicability and simple control. The goal of this study was to identify and evaluate chemicals for their ability to inhibit the growth of Saccharomyces cerevisiae while allowing ethanol production with higher yields. Eight potential growth-inhibitory chemicals were screened for their ability to reduce cell growth in 24-well plates. Effective chemicals were then evaluated in cultivations to identify those that simultaneously reduced biomass yield and increased ethanol yield. The yeast quorum-sensing molecules 2-phenylethanol, tryptophol and tyrosol were found to increase the ethanol yield of S. cerevisiae JAY 270. These molecules were tested with seven other yeast strains and ethanol yields of up to 15% higher were observed. The effects of 2-phenylethanol and tryptophol were also studied in bioreactor fermentations. These findings demonstrate for the first time that the ethanol yield can be improved by adding yeast quorum-sensing molecules to reduce the cell growth of S. cerevisiae, suggesting a strategy to improve the yield of ethanol and other yeast fermentation products by manipulating native biological control systems.}, }
@article {pmid34752630, year = {2022}, author = {İremli, BG and Şendur, SN and Ünlütürk, U}, title = {Response to Letter to the Editor From Raven: Three Cases of Subacute Thyroiditis Following SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine.}, journal = {The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism}, volume = {107}, number = {4}, pages = {e1773-e1774}, pmid = {34752630}, issn = {1945-7197}, mesh = {*COVID-19/prevention &amp; control ; COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Humans ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Thyroiditis, Subacute/diagnosis/etiology ; }, }
@article {pmid34752614, year = {2022}, author = {Raven, LM and McCormack, AI and Greenfield, JR}, title = {Letter to the Editor From Raven et al: "Three Cases of Subacute Thyroiditis Following SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine".}, journal = {The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism}, volume = {107}, number = {4}, pages = {e1767-e1768}, pmid = {34752614}, issn = {1945-7197}, mesh = {*COVID-19/prevention &amp; control ; COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Humans ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Thyroiditis, Subacute/diagnosis/etiology ; }, }
@article {pmid34752035, year = {2021}, author = {Korolenkova, MV and Rakhmanova, MS}, title = {[Phantom root as dental trauma complication in immature teeth (systematic literature and clinical cases review)].}, journal = {Stomatologiia}, volume = {100}, number = {5}, pages = {53-57}, doi = {10.17116/stomat202110005153}, pmid = {34752035}, issn = {0039-1735}, mesh = {*Dental Pulp Necrosis ; Humans ; *Periapical Periodontitis ; Root Canal Therapy ; }, abstract = {The paper presents literature review and the analysis of three clinical cases of phantom root development. Phantom root is a rare complication occurring as a result of apical papilla detachment, usually after dental trauma. Some authors suggest regenerative endodontic procedure may contribute to phantom root development because of rude intervention in periapical tissues needed to induce apical bleeding required for intracanal blood clot formation. Phantom root is not an indication for endodontic treatment. The prognosis depends on initial root formation stage and root to crow length ratio at the time of trauma. In the majority of cases the teeth may be preserved, but continuous root development is not to be expected.}, }
@article {pmid34748405, year = {2021}, author = {Erdogan Bamac, O and Cizmecigil, UY and Mete, A and Yilmaz, A and Aydin, O and Tali, HE and Tali, BH and Yilmaz, SG and Gurel, A and Turan, N and Ozsoy, S and Vatansever Celik, E and Sadeyen, JR and Roman-Sosa, G and Iqbal, M and Richt, JA and Yilmaz, H}, title = {Emergence of West Nile Virus Lineage-2 in Resident Corvids in Istanbul, Turkey.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {21}, number = {11}, pages = {892-899}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2021.0010}, pmid = {34748405}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Animals ; Phylogeny ; Serbia ; Turkey/epidemiology ; *West Nile Fever/epidemiology/veterinary ; *West Nile virus/genetics ; }, abstract = {West Nile fever is a vector-borne viral disease affecting animals and humans causing significant health and economic problems globally. This study was aimed at investigating circulating West Nile virus (WNV) strains in free-ranging corvids in Istanbul, Turkey. Brain, liver, and kidney were collected from corvids (n = 34) between June 2019 and April 2020 and analyzed for the presence of WNV-specific RNA by quantitative RT-PCR. In addition, histopathologic and immunohistochemical examinations were also performed. Samples found to be positive by qRT-PCR were partially sequenced. WNV-specific RNA was detected in 8 of 34 corvids analyzed, which included 7 hooded crows (Corvus cornix) and 1 Eurasian magpie (Pica pica). Phylogenetic analysis based on partial WNV sequences from the 8 WNV-positive corvids identified in this study revealed that all sequences clustered within the WNV lineage-2; they were at least 97% homologues to WNV lineage-2 sequences from Slovakia, Italy, Czechia, Hungary, Senegal, Austria, Serbia, Greece, Bulgaria, and Germany. WNV sequences showed a divergence (87.94-94.46%) from sequences reported from Romania, Central African Republic, South Africa, Madagascar, Israel, and Cyprus, which clustered into a different clade of WNV lineage-2. Common histopathologic findings of WNV-positive corvids included lymphoplasmacytic hepatitis, myocarditis, and splenitis. The liver and heart were found to be the tissues most consistently positive for WNV-specific antigen by immunohistochemistry, followed by the kidney and brain. This study demonstrates for the first time the existence of WNV virus belonging to the genetic lineage-2 in resident corvids in Istanbul, Turkey. We hypothesize that the WNV strains circulating in Istanbul are possibly the result of a spillover event from Europe. Since WNV is a zoonotic pathogen transmitted by mosquito vectors, the emergence of WNV in Istanbul also poses a risk to humans and other susceptible animals in this densely populated city and needs to be addressed by animal and public health authorities.}, }
@article {pmid34744759, year = {2021}, author = {Flores-Santin, J and Burggren, WW}, title = {Beyond the Chicken: Alternative Avian Models for Developmental Physiological Research.}, journal = {Frontiers in physiology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {712633}, pmid = {34744759}, issn = {1664-042X}, abstract = {Biomedical research focusing on physiological, morphological, behavioral, and other aspects of development has long depended upon the chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) as a key animal model that is presumed to be typical of birds and generally applicable to mammals. Yet, the modern chicken in its many forms is the result of artificial selection more intense than almost any other domesticated animal. A consequence of great variation in genotype and phenotype is that some breeds have inherent aberrant physiological and morphological traits that may show up relatively early in development (e.g., hypertension, hyperglycemia, and limb defects in the broiler chickens). While such traits can be useful as models of specific diseases, this high degree of specialization can color general experimental results and affect their translational value. Against this background, in this review we first consider the characteristics that make an animal model attractive for developmental research (e.g., accessibility, ease of rearing, size, fecundity, development rates, genetic variation, etc.). We then explore opportunities presented by the embryo to adult continuum of alternative bird models, including quail, ratites, songbirds, birds of prey, and corvids. We conclude by indicating that expanding developmental studies beyond the chicken model to include additional avian groups will both validate the chicken model as well as potentially identify even more suitable avian models for answering questions applicable to both basic biology and the human condition.}, }
@article {pmid34738933, year = {2021}, author = {Kas, JJ and Vila, FD and Pemmaraju, CD and Tan, TS and Rehr, JJ}, title = {Advanced calculations of X-ray spectroscopies with FEFF10 and Corvus.}, journal = {Journal of synchrotron radiation}, volume = {28}, number = {Pt 6}, pages = {1801-1810}, doi = {10.1107/S1600577521008614}, pmid = {34738933}, issn = {1600-5775}, support = {DE-AC02-76SF00515//US Department of Energy, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, Division of Materials Sciences and Engineering/ ; DEFG02-97ER45623//US Department of Energy, Office of Science, Basic Energy Sciences/ ; DE-AC02-05CH11231//US Department of Energy, Office of Science, National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; X-Rays ; }, abstract = {The real-space Green's function code FEFF has been extensively developed and used for calculations of X-ray and related spectra, including X-ray absorption (XAS), X-ray emission (XES), inelastic X-ray scattering, and electron energy-loss spectra. The code is particularly useful for the analysis and interpretation of the XAS fine-structure (EXAFS) and the near-edge structure (XANES) in materials throughout the periodic table. Nevertheless, many applications, such as non-equilibrium systems, and the analysis of ultra-fast pump-probe experiments, require extensions of the code including finite-temperature and auxiliary calculations of structure and vibrational properties. To enable these extensions, we have developed in tandem a new version FEFF10 and new FEFF-based workflows for the Corvus workflow manager, which allow users to easily augment the capabilities of FEFF10 via auxiliary codes. This coupling facilitates simplified input and automated calculations of spectra based on advanced theoretical techniques. The approach is illustrated with examples of high-temperature behavior, vibrational properties, many-body excitations in XAS, super-heavy materials, and fits of calculated spectra to experiment.}, }
@article {pmid34725818, year = {2022}, author = {Séguin, K and Durand-Guévin, A and Lavallée, C and Ouimet, F and Maisonhaute, J&#xc9; and Watson, CJ and Forbes, SL}, title = {The taphonomic impact of scavenger guilds in southern Quebec during summer and fall in two distinct habitats.}, journal = {Journal of forensic sciences}, volume = {67}, number = {2}, pages = {460-470}, doi = {10.1111/1556-4029.14929}, pmid = {34725818}, issn = {1556-4029}, support = {C150-2017-12//Canada 150 Research Chair in Forensic Thanatology/ ; RGPIN/6098/2019//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; *Ecosystem ; *Feeding Behavior ; Postmortem Changes ; Quebec ; Seasons ; Swine ; }, abstract = {Decomposition of human remains is a complex process impacted by many intrinsic and extrinsic factors. A less-studied extrinsic factor in forensic taphonomy are the scavengers that consume soft and hard tissue. Scavengers physically degrade and remove soft tissue, disperse, and destroy skeletal elements, which can make locating remains challenging. While invertebrate activity has been largely investigated, there is limited quantitative data available on vertebrate activity, particularly in Canada. This study aimed to determine which species (vertebrate and invertebrate) belong to the scavenger guilds in southern Quebec, and their potential taphonomic impact on the decomposition process. Two independent trials were conducted in 2020 using pig carcasses: one during summer in a forest habitat and one during fall in a grassland habitat. Each carcass was placed a minimum 100 m apart in semi-rural land. Vertebrate scavenger activity was recorded by continuous surveillance using trail cameras. Carcasses were also regularly visited to monitor the decomposition process and the activity of invertebrate scavengers. Overall, the vertebrate scavenger guilds included a narrow range of corvids, turkey vultures, coyotes, and skunks. The intensity of vertebrate scavengers was greater in the grassland habitat (fall), while the intensity of invertebrate scavengers was greater in the forest habitat (summer). With the exception of invertebrate scavengers, very few species visited during the fresh stage of decomposition, and the probability of body displacement increased as decomposition progressed. These results identify which scavengers have the greatest taphonomic impact and highlight the importance of incorporating scavenger impact when searching for human remains.}, }
@article {pmid34722946, year = {2021}, author = {Hiraoka, T and Metani, H and Yasunaga, M and Yoine, T and Yagi, M and Yamamoto, S and Arai, N and Tsubahara, A and Hanayama, K}, title = {Foundational Study on the Simple Detection of Impairment Resulting in Dangerous Driving in Patients with Higher Brain Dysfunction.}, journal = {Progress in rehabilitation medicine}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {20210040}, pmid = {34722946}, issn = {2432-1354}, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: We performed a survey of medical records to reveal the cognitive deficits behind dangerous driving in patients with higher brain dysfunction.<br><br>METHODS: Thirty-four patients with higher brain dysfunction were included in this study. Patients' basic characteristics, neuropsychological test results, scores on two types of driving aptitude tests, and accident/near miss data from a driving simulator were extracted from medical records. We conducted &#x3c7;[2] tests for independence between comprehensive driving aptitude scores and "traffic accidents" / "being prohibited from driving as defined by the number of traffic accidents and near misses." Backward logistic regression analysis was carried out to assess correlations of "traffic accidents" and "being prohibited from driving as defined by the number of traffic accidents and near misses" with neuropsychological test scores.<br><br>RESULTS: No significant correlation was observed between the comprehensive driving aptitude score and "traffic accidents" / "being prohibited from driving as defined by the number of traffic accidents and near misses." The score on the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices test was the only factor identified as a significant predictor of "being prohibited from driving as defined by the number of traffic accidents and near misses."<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study suggest that it is important to focus on the decline in problem-solving ability as a predictor of "being prohibited from driving as defined by the number of traffic accidents and near misses."}, }
@article {pmid34708918, year = {2022}, author = {Meunier, M and Scandolera, A and Chapuis, E and Lapierre, L and Sandré, J and Brunner, G and Lovchik, M and Reynaud, R}, title = {The anti-wrinkles properties of sodium acetylated hyaluronate.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {21}, number = {7}, pages = {2749-2762}, pmid = {34708918}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Aging ; Fibroblasts ; Humans ; Skin ; *Skin Aging ; Sodium/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Intrinsic aging promotes wrinkles formation by an imbalance between matrix synthesis/degradation in favor of degradation. This is accelerated by the exposome leading to overproduction of protease and fewer remodeling.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: Protecting the integrity of extracellular matrix appears as the most efficient anti-aging solution. We developed a grafted HA specifically designed to get anti-aging property due to a specific molecular weight and acetylation degree.<br><br>METHODS: A transcriptomic analysis was performed on fibroblasts, followed by a measurement of MMP secretion and subsequent effect on collagen degradation. MMP expression in skin explants concerned by chronobiological and extrinsic aging was analyzed by immunostaining. A clinical study was conducted on volunteers presenting wrinkles on face to evaluate flash reduction of wrinkles after 6&#xa0;h of application by profilometry and anti-aging efficacy after 2&#xa0;months by VISIA[&#xae;] CR2.3.<br><br>RESULTS: Transcriptomic analysis evidenced an inhibition of MMP gene expression with acetylated HA, confirmed by an inhibition of MMPs release by fibroblasts, and a protection of type I collagen against degradation. We confirmed the reduction of MMPs in mature skin and in skin explants exposed to UV and urban dust. We demonstrated during clinical studies the flash reduction effect of acetylated HA on crow's feet wrinkles and a filling of nasogenian areas 6&#xa0;h after application, and a wrinkles number reduction on nasogenian area up to 2&#xa0;months of application.<br><br>CONCLUSION: We developed a new grafted HA owing protective properties against ECM degradation induced by chronobiological and extrinsic aging, leading to a significant and efficient anti-wrinkles effect.}, }
@article {pmid34703616, year = {2021}, author = {Wascher, CAF and Allen, K and Szipl, G}, title = {Learning and motor inhibitory control in crows and domestic chickens.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {8}, number = {10}, pages = {210504}, pmid = {34703616}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {Cognitive abilities allow animals to navigate through complex, fluctuating environments. In the present study, we tested the performance of a captive group of eight crows, Corvus corone and 10 domestic chickens, Gallus gallus domesticus, in the cylinder task, as a test of motor inhibitory control and reversal learning as a measure of learning ability and behavioural flexibility. Four crows and nine chickens completed the cylinder task, eight crows and six chickens completed the reversal learning experiment. Crows performed better in the cylinder task compared with chickens. In the reversal learning experiment, species did not significantly differ in the number of trials until the learning criterion was reached. The performance in the reversal learning experiment did not correlate with performance in the cylinder task in chickens. Our results suggest crows to possess better motor inhibitory control compared with chickens. By contrast, learning performance in a reversal learning task did not differ between the species, indicating similar levels of behavioural flexibility. Interestingly, we describe notable individual differences in performance. We stress the importance not only to compare cognitive performance between species but also between individuals of the same species when investigating the evolution of cognitive skills.}, }
@article {pmid34694633, year = {2021}, author = {Metzler, D and Knief, U and Peñalba, JV and Wolf, JBW}, title = {Assortative mating and epistatic mating-trait architecture induce complex movement of the crow hybrid zone.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {75}, number = {12}, pages = {3154-3174}, doi = {10.1111/evo.14386}, pmid = {34694633}, issn = {1558-5646}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Hybridization, Genetic ; Phenotype ; Reproduction ; Reproductive Isolation ; }, abstract = {Hybrid zones provide a window into the evolutionary processes governing species divergence. Yet, the contribution of mate choice to the temporal and spatial stability of hybrid zones remains poorly explored. Here, we investigate the effects of assortative mating on hybrid-zone dynamics by means of a mathematical model parameterized with phenotype and genotype data from the hybrid zone between all-black carrion and gray-coated hooded crows. In the best-fit model, narrow clines of the two mating-trait loci were maintained by a moderate degree of assortative mating inducing pre- and postzygotic isolation via positive frequency-dependent selection. Epistasis between the two loci induced hybrid-zone movement in favor of alleles conveying dark plumage followed by a shift in the opposite direction favoring gray-coated phenotypes ∼1 200 generations after secondary contact. Unlinked neutral loci diffused near-unimpeded across the zone. These results were generally robust to the choice of matching rule (self-referencing or parental imprinting) and effects of genetic drift. Overall, this study illustrates under which conditions assortative mating can maintain steep clines in mating-trait loci without generalizing to genome-wide reproductive isolation. It further emphasizes the importance of the genetic mating-trait architecture for spatio-temporal hybrid-zone dynamics.}, }
@article {pmid34690869, year = {2021}, author = {Choi, W}, title = {Musicianship Influences Language Effect on Musical Pitch Perception.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {712753}, pmid = {34690869}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Given its practical implications, the effect of musicianship on language learning has been vastly researched. Interestingly, growing evidence also suggests that language experience can facilitate music perception. However, the precise nature of this facilitation is not fully understood. To address this research gap, I investigated the interactive effect of language and musicianship on musical pitch and rhythmic perception. Cantonese and English listeners, each divided into musician and non-musician groups, completed the Musical Ear Test and the Raven's 2 Progressive Matrices. Essentially, an interactive effect of language and musicianship was found on musical pitch but not rhythmic perception. Consistent with previous studies, Cantonese language experience appeared to facilitate musical pitch perception. However, this facilitatory effect was only present among the non-musicians. Among the musicians, Cantonese language experience did not offer any perceptual advantage. The above findings reflect that musicianship influences the effect of language on musical pitch perception. Together with the previous findings, the new findings offer two theoretical implications for the OPERA hypothesis-bi-directionality and mechanisms through which language experience and musicianship interact in different domains.}, }
@article {pmid34690156, year = {2021}, author = {Cardon, N}, title = {Cycling on the Color Line: Race, Technology, and Bicycle Mobilities in the Early Jim Crow South, 1887-1905.}, journal = {Technology and culture}, volume = {62}, number = {4}, pages = {973-1002}, doi = {10.1353/tech.2021.0151}, pmid = {34690156}, issn = {1097-3729}, mesh = {Black or African American ; *Bicycling ; Humans ; Technology ; United States ; *White People ; }, abstract = {The safety bicycle arrived in the U.S. South in the middle of a transition from relative African American freedom following the Civil War to a reassertion of white hegemony in the region. This article examines how white and African American southerners interpreted the meanings and practices of the safety bicycle through a contingent spatial and mobility politics found at the intersection of race and technology. For African Americans, the bicycle was both a symbolic and real opportunity to express modern freedoms at the moment those freedoms were being curtailed. The South, however, was not the only region of the world where the politics of race shaped bicycle mobilities, and this article points to the ways the southern experience of bicycle technology mirrors but does not necessarily replicate places beyond the United States.}, }
@article {pmid34687465, year = {2022}, author = {Molin, N and Wang, N and Isaacson, G}, title = {A Novel Adenoidectomy Training System.}, journal = {The Laryngoscope}, volume = {132}, number = {10}, pages = {2056-2062}, doi = {10.1002/lary.29925}, pmid = {34687465}, issn = {1531-4995}, mesh = {Adenoidectomy/methods ; *Adenoids/surgery ; Animals ; Cattle ; Humans ; Nasopharynx ; Prospective Studies ; *Students, Medical ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: Young residents find mirror-guided adenoidectomy difficult. Inexperienced trainees must learn to focus a headlight beam, work upside-down and backward in a small space and thoroughly ablate adenoid tissue-all new skills. We present an adenoidectomy training system that is low-cost, easy to construct, and is focused on these basic adenoidectomy skills.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: Prospective experimental study.<br><br>METHODS: This training suite includes three stations each targeting a different skill. The first employs a mannequin head with exposed nasopharynx. It trains the student to coordinate a headlight and mirror while touching a series of targets with a curved probe. At the second station participants electrodessicate (or microdebride) an anchored piece of veal thymus. The third station combines both sets of skills as participants ablate thymus in a simulated nasopharynx (30&#x2009;mm rectangular aluminum tube) constrained within a Crow-Davis retractor, using a headlight, mirror, and suction electrosurgical electrode (or microdebrider). To evaluate the training system's efficacy, we assessed the performance of 10 surgically na&#xef;ve medical student volunteers before and after 15&#x2009;minutes of practice using a validated rating scale used for adenoidectomy.<br><br>RESULTS: There was significant improvement in adenoidectomy skill scores after practicing. Overall scores were higher, time taken to touch a series of targets with a headlight and mirror was less and amount of tissue ablated at the final station was greater (P&#x2009;<&#x2009;.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: This novel adenoidectomy training system is inexpensive and easy to build. Practice with the model resulted in statistically significant improvement in adenoidectomy skill scores for inexperienced student surgeons.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3 Laryngoscope, 132:2056-2062, 2022.}, }
@article {pmid34677128, year = {2021}, author = {Zeiträg, C and Jacobs, I}, title = {The elusive perspective of a food thief.}, journal = {eLife}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {34677128}, issn = {2050-084X}, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior ; Food ; *Passeriformes ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {Eurasian jays fail to take into account the point of view and desire of other jays when hiding food they can eat later.}, }
@article {pmid34676090, year = {2021}, author = {Zhao, W}, title = {A forum on synthetic biology: meet the great challenges with new technology.}, journal = {National science review}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {nwaa252}, doi = {10.1093/nsr/nwaa252}, pmid = {34676090}, issn = {2053-714X}, abstract = {Synthetic biology aims to redesign and reconstruct living systems for understanding life or for useful real-world applications. In the past two decades, scientists have been able to use engineered living systems to produce many kinds of products from bioplastics to drugs, to construct a minimal bacterium with a fully synthetic genome and to store huge amount of information within a cell. And in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the world, the synthetic biology community became one of the major forces to develop effective diagnostic approaches as well as the drugs and vaccines, to rapidly cope with this great challenge with the state-of-the-art technologies in their hands. In this panel discussion held on 3rd August 2020, eleven pioneering synthetic biologists from six countries across four continents gathered to discuss the development trend, challenges and biosafety issues concerning synthetic biology. George Church Professor of Genetics at Harvard Medical School and Professor of Health Sciences and Technology at Harvard and MIT, USA Paul Freemont Professor of Structural Biology in the Department of Infectious Disease at Imperial College and a member of the Science Advisory Board of Tierra Biosciences, UK Akihiko Kondo Professor in School of Science, Technology and Innovation, and Department of Chemical Science and Engineering at Kobe University, Japan Christina Smolke Professor of Bioengineering and of Chemical Engineering at Stanford University and CEO of Antheia Inc., USA Xian-En Zhang Professor at the Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China Chenli Liu (Chair) Professor and Director of Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China Jim Collins Termeer Professor of Medical Engineering &amp; Science and Professor of Biological Engineering at MIT, USA Jay Keasling Professor of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering at the University of California, Berkeley, USA Sang Yup Lee Dean of KAIST Institutes and Distinguished Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), South Korea Claudia Vickers Director of the Future Science Platform in Synthetic Biology at Commonwealth Science and Industry Research Organization (CSIRO), Australia Guoping Zhao Professor at the Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China.}, }
@article {pmid34671286, year = {2021}, author = {Xia, T and Kang, M and Chen, M and Ouyang, J and Hu, F}, title = {Design Training and Creativity: Students Develop Stronger Divergent but Not Convergent Thinking.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {695002}, pmid = {34671286}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Design training programs that teach creativity often emphasize divergent thinking (generation of ideas) more than convergent thinking (evaluation of ideas). We hypothesized that training would lead to more both types of creativity, but especially divergent thinking. Three groups of university students (N=120; n=40 in each group) were recruited to participate: senior design students (graduate students with at least 4years of design training as undergraduates); junior design students (undergraduates in their first year of design training); and undergraduate students in majors unrelated to design. The students completed three tasks in a classroom setting to assess divergent thinking (Alternate Uses Task), convergent thinking (Remote Associates Task), and nonverbal abstract reasoning (Raven's Progressive Matrices Test). The results of one-way ANOVAs showed that as expected, senior design students significantly outperformed junior design students and non-design majors in divergent thinking. However, contrary to expectations, senior design students had significantly lower scores than the non-design group on convergent thinking; the junior design students' scores fell in the middle but were not significantly different from either of the other groups. There were no group differences in nonverbal abstract reasoning. These findings suggest that design training significantly improves students' ability to generate ideas but does not improve, or may even hinder, their ability to evaluate whether the ideas are useful for the task at hand. The results have implications for developing a research-based curriculum in design training programs.}, }
@article {pmid34657464, year = {2021}, author = {Pesendorfer, MB and Bowman, R and Gratzer, G and Pruett, S and Tringali, A and Fitzpatrick, JW}, title = {Fire history and weather interact to determine extent and synchrony of mast-seeding in rhizomatous scrub oaks of Florida.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {376}, number = {1839}, pages = {20200381}, pmid = {34657464}, issn = {1471-2970}, mesh = {Animals ; Ecosystem ; *Fires ; *Quercus ; Seeds ; Weather ; }, abstract = {In disturbance-prone ecosystems, fitness consequences of plant reproductive strategies are often determined by the relative timing of seed production and disturbance events, but the role of disturbances as proximate drivers of seed production has been overlooked. We use long-term data on seed production in Quercus chapmanii, Q. geminata and Q. inopina, rhizomatous oaks found in south central Florida's oak scrub, to investigate the role of fire history and its interaction with weather in shaping acorn production and its synchrony. Acorn production increased with the time since last fire, combined with additive or interactive effects of spring precipitation (+) or drought (-). Furthermore, multiple matrix regression models revealed that ramet pairs with shared fire history were more synchronous in seed production than ones that burned in different years. Long-term trends suggest that increasingly drier spring weather, in interaction with fire frequency, may drive a decline of seed production. Such declines could affect the community of acorn-reliant vertebrates in the Florida scrub, including endangered Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens). These results illustrate that fire can function as a proximate driver of seed production in mast-seeding species, highlighting the increasingly recognized importance of interactions among reproductive strategies and disturbance regimes in structuring plant populations and communities. This article is part of the theme issue 'The ecology and evolution of synchronized seed production in plants'.}, }
@article {pmid34656051, year = {2021}, author = {Nieder, A}, title = {Consciousness without cortex.}, journal = {Current opinion in neurobiology}, volume = {71}, number = {}, pages = {69-76}, doi = {10.1016/j.conb.2021.09.010}, pmid = {34656051}, issn = {1873-6882}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain ; *Cerebral Cortex ; *Consciousness/physiology ; Mammals ; Neurons/physiology ; Telencephalon ; }, abstract = {Sensory consciousness - the awareness and ability to report subjective experiences - is a property of biological nervous systems that has evolved out of unconscious processing over hundreds of millions of years. From which brain structures and based on which mechanisms can conscious experience emerge? Based on the body of work in human and nonhuman primates, the emergence of consciousness is intimately associated with the workings of the mammalian cerebral cortex with its specific cell types and layered structure. However, recent neurophysiological recordings demonstrate a neuronal correlate of consciousness in the pallial endbrain of crows. These telencephalic integration centers in birds originate embryonically from other pallial territories, lack a layered architecture characteristic for the cerebral cortex, and exhibit independently evolved pallial cell types. This argues that the mammalian cerebral cortex is not a prerequisite for consciousness to emerge in all vertebrates. Rather, it seems that the anatomical and physiological principles of the telencephalic pallium offer this structure as a brain substrate for consciousness to evolve independently across vertebrate phylogeny.}, }
@article {pmid34648926, year = {2021}, author = {Kombiah, S and Kumar, M and Murugkar, HV and Nagarajan, S and Tosh, C and Senthilkumar, D and Rajukumar, K and Kalaiyarasu, S and Gautam, S and Singh, R and Karikalan, M and Sharma, AK and Singh, VP}, title = {Role of expression of host cytokines in the pathogenesis of H9N2-PB2 reassortant and non-reassortant H5N1 avian influenza viruses isolated from crows in BALB/c mice.}, journal = {Microbial pathogenesis}, volume = {161}, number = {Pt A}, pages = {105239}, doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2021.105239}, pmid = {34648926}, issn = {1096-1208}, mesh = {Animals ; Chickens ; *Crows ; Cytokines ; *Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype ; *Influenza A Virus, H9N2 Subtype/genetics ; *Influenza in Birds ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred BALB C ; Reassortant Viruses/genetics ; }, abstract = {The present experiment was conducted to study the role of cytokine, chemokine and TLRs responses of H9N2-PB2 reassortant H5N1 virus as compared to non-reassortant H5N1 virus isolated from crows in BALB/c mice. Two groups (12 mice each) of 6-8 weeks old BALB/c mice were intranasally inoculated with 10[6] EID50/ml of viruses A/crow/India/03CA04/2015 (H9N2-PB2 reassortant H5N1) and A/crow/India/02CA01/2012 (non-reassortant H5N1). At each interval, brain, lung and spleen were collected and relative quantification of cytokines, chemokines and TLRs was done by qPCR. The H9N2-PB2 reassortant H5N1 infected mice brain, the transcripts of TLR7 were significantly higher than other cytokines at 3dpi and KC was significantly upregulated at 7dpi. In non-reassortant H5N1 infected mice brain showed, TLR 7 and IFNα upregulation at 3dpi and IFNγ and TLR7 upregulation at 7dpi. The H9N2-PB2 reassortant H5N1 infected mice lung revealed, IL2 and TLR7 significant upregulation at 3dpi and in non-reassortant H5N1 infected mice, IL6 was significantly upregulated. At 7dpi in H9N2-PB2 reassortant H5N1 virus infected group mice, IL1 and TLR 3 were significantly upregulated in lungs and in non-reassortant group mice, IL1 and TLR7 were significantly upregulated. At 3dpi in H9N2-PB2 reassortant H5N1 virus infected mice spleen, IL4, IFNα, IFNβ were significantly downregulated and TLR7 transcript was significantly upregulated. In non-reassortant group mice, IL6, IFNα, IFNβ and TLR 3 were significantly upregulated. At 7dpi in H9N2-PB2 reassortant H5N1 virus infected mice spleen, IFNα, IFNβ and TLR7 were significantly lower than other cytokines and in non-reassortant group mice, IFNα and IFNβ were significantly downregulated. This study concludes that dysregulation of cytokines in lungs and brain might have contributed to the pathogenesis of both the viruses in mice.}, }
@article {pmid34641734, year = {2021}, author = {Baciadonna, L and Solvi, C and La Cava, S and Pilenga, C and Gamba, M and Favaro, L}, title = {Cross-modal individual recognition in the African penguin and the effect of partnership.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {288}, number = {1960}, pages = {20211463}, pmid = {34641734}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Cues ; Endangered Species ; Humans ; Recognition, Psychology ; *Spheniscidae ; Territoriality ; }, abstract = {An animal's ability to recognize another individual by matching their image to their voice suggests they form internal representations of other individuals. To what extent this ability, termed cross-modal individual recognition, extends to birds other than corvids is unknown. Here, we used an expectancy violation paradigm to determine whether a monogamous territorial seabird (Spheniscus demersus) can cross-modally recognize familiar conspecifics (partners or colony-mates). After pairs of penguins spent time together in an isolated area, one of the penguins was released from the area leaving the focal penguin alone. Subsequently, we played contact calls of the released penguin (congruent condition) or a different penguin (incongruent condition). After being paired with a colony-mate, focal penguins' response latency to the auditory stimulus was faster in the incongruent compared to congruent condition, indicating the mismatch violated their expectations. This behavioural pattern was not observed in focal penguins after being paired with their partner. We discuss these different results in the light of penguins' natural behaviour and the evolution of social communication strategies. Our results suggest that cross-modal individual recognition extends to penguins and reveals, in contrast with previously thought, that social communication between members of this endangered species can also use visual cues.}, }
@article {pmid34636975, year = {2021}, author = {Tomita, K}, title = {Camera traps reveal interspecific differences in the diel and seasonal patterns of cicada nymph predation.}, journal = {Die Naturwissenschaften}, volume = {108}, number = {6}, pages = {52}, pmid = {34636975}, issn = {1432-1904}, support = {21J1301901//the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Hemiptera ; Nymph ; Predatory Behavior ; Seasons ; *Ursidae ; }, abstract = {Cicadas, a group of large-bodied insects, are preyed upon at both nymphal and adult stages by diverse range of vertebrates such as birds and mammals. Although the behavior of predators toward adult cicadas is well documented, there is a lack of research on the predation on cicada nymphs. In this study, camera traps deployed in conifer plantations, in which high population densities of cicadas Lyristes bihamatus emerge, were used to evaluate the seasonal and diel patterns of predation upon cicada nymphs by three predator species, namely brown bears, red foxes, and jungle crows, from May to September in 2018 and 2019 in northern Japan. Among all three species, cicada nymph predation occurred until early August when the final instar nymphs fully emerged. Bears were observed to constantly dig for cicada nymphs until early August, whereas foxes and crows were frequently observed foraging from late July to early August, during the season of L. bihamatus emergence. In contract to the powerful digging ability of bears, which facilitates efficient predation upon subterranean cicada nymphs, it is generally difficult for foxes and crows with limited or no digging ability to gain access these nymphs until the period of emergence. Cicada nymph predation by bears and crows was observed primarily during the daytime, despite the typical crepuscular/nocturnal emergence schedules of these insects. Contrastingly, the predatory activities of foxes tended to be nocturnal during the period prior to the beginning of cicada emergence, although subsequently became diurnal during the cicada emergence period. These observations indicate that the temporal activity patterns of cicada nymph predators are determined by interspecific differences in predation abilities and cicada emergence schedules. Accordingly, the findings of this study provide evidence to indicate that the timing and duration of trophic interactions between above- and belowground communities might vary among predator species, depending on their predation abilities.}, }
@article {pmid34636463, year = {2022}, author = {Tsai, TY and Lin, RJ and Liu, C and Tseng, YP and Chan, LP and Liang, CH}, title = {Djulis supplementation against oxidative stress and ultraviolet radiation-induced cell damage: The influence of antioxidant status and aging of skin in healthy subjects.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {21}, number = {7}, pages = {2945-2953}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.14482}, pmid = {34636463}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {KMTTH-108-053//Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Hospital/ ; KMUH106-6R-50//Kaohsiung Medical University Chung-Ho Memorial Hospital/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; *Antioxidants/pharmacology ; Collagen ; Cross-Over Studies ; Dietary Supplements ; Healthy Volunteers ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Oxidative Stress ; Skin ; *Skin Aging ; Ultraviolet Rays/adverse effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Djulis (Chenopodium formosanum Koidz.) is a cereal food and its antioxidant and pigment constituents may protect skin from photoaging, but conclusive experiments have not been carried out.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: This investigation evaluates the effects of djulis extract as a functional supplement.<br><br>PATIENTS/METHODS: In this study, the effects of djulis functional drinks on the free radical scavenging activities, promotion of collagen synthesis and protection against oxidative stress and the effects of ultraviolet B (UVB)-irradiated of pUC119 DNA were explored. Thirty healthy subjects (aged 35-55&#xa0;years old) were randomly allocated to djulis or placebo drinks groups (50&#xa0;ml of a djulis/placebo drink daily for 8&#xa0;weeks for each subject) in a double-blind crossover study.<br><br>RESULTS: The regular consumption of the djulis functional drinks significantly increased levels of the serum biochemical superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (+9.5% and +124.8%) after 8&#xa0;weeks, relative to baseline controls. The improvements in skin moisture, brightness, elasticity, crow's feet, texture, wrinkles, pores, and collagen content after 8&#xa0;weeks in the djulis group were +13.3%, +3.8%, +13.2%, -21.8%, -12.1%, -11.0%, -1.4%, and +33.7%, respectively, relative to the baseline without treatment.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: These work findings suggest the daily consumption of djulis drinks can protect the skin against oxidative stress-induced damage, delay skin aging and improve skin conditions.}, }
@article {pmid34626170, year = {2022}, author = {Fabi, S and Alexiades, M and Chatrath, V and Colucci, L and Sherber, N and Heydenrych, I and Jagdeo, J and Dayan, S and Swift, A and Chantrey, J and Stevens, WG and Sangha, S}, title = {Facial Aesthetic Priorities and Concerns: A Physician and Patient Perception Global Survey.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {42}, number = {4}, pages = {NP218-NP229}, pmid = {34626170}, issn = {1527-330X}, support = {//AbbVie/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; *Cosmetic Techniques/adverse effects ; Esthetics ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Perception ; Phobic Disorders ; *Physicians ; *Skin Aging ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Minimally invasive and noninvasive facial aesthetic treatments are increasingly popular, and a greater understanding of patient perspectives on facial aesthetic priorities is needed.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The authors surveyed facial aesthetic concerns, desires, and treatment goals of aesthetically conscious men and women, and physicians, in 18 countries.<br><br>METHODS: This was a global, internet-based survey on desired appearance and experiences with, or interest in, facial aesthetic treatments. Eligible respondents were aesthetically conscious adults (21-75 years). Eligible aesthetic physicians were required to see &#x2265;30 patients per month for aesthetic reasons, have 2 to 30 years of experience in clinical practice, and spend &#x2265;70% of their time in direct patient care.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 14,584 aesthetically conscious adults (mean age, 41 years; 70% women) and 1315 aesthetic physicians (mean age, 45 years; 68% men) completed the survey. Most respondents (68%) reported that aesthetic procedures should be sought in their 30s to 40s; physicians recommended patients seek treatment earlier. Respondents expressed greatest concern over crow's feet lines, forehead lines, facial skin issues, hair-related concerns, and under-eye bags or dark circles; in contrast, physicians tended to underestimate concerns about under-eye bags or dark circles, mid-face volume deficits, and skin quality. Although both physicians and respondents cited cost as a major barrier to seeking aesthetic treatments, respondents also emphasized safety, fear of injections or procedure-related pain, and concern about unnatural-looking outcomes.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This global survey provides valuable insight into facial aesthetic concerns and perspectives that may be implemented in patient education and consultations to improve patient satisfaction following aesthetic treatments.}, }
@article {pmid34618523, year = {2021}, author = {Delamater, AR and Wasserman, EA}, title = {Comparative cognition-Conceptual and methodological advancements.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Animal learning and cognition}, volume = {47}, number = {3}, pages = {219-222}, doi = {10.1037/xan0000309}, pmid = {34618523}, issn = {2329-8464}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; *Concept Formation ; Dogs ; Mice ; Pan troglodytes ; Rats ; }, abstract = {This special issue originally placed a Call for Papers that emphasized the importance of "Conceptual and Methodological" advances in the field of Comparative Cognition. Represented here is a collection of 14 papers that helps to display some of the diversity of ideas and approaches within this flourishing research area. The first paper in this issue, by Gazes and Lazareva (2021), discusses transitive inference learning from the perspectives of: identifying the problems of contextual variables in studying different species; whether associative processes can or cannot fully account for the behavior and, if not, what alternative representational mechanisms might be at work; and, finally, how ecological considerations may support comparative research by suggesting novel theoretical and empirical questions. The next paper, by Loy et al. (2021) investigates questions related to the complexity of learning in invertebrate species, single-celled organisms, and plants. The paper by Rawlings et al. (2021) reviews the literature on cumulative cultural evolution, primarily in nonhuman primate species, and critically evaluates the importance of identifying the essential conceptual and methodological issues in what many have deemed to be a uniquely human form of behavior. The paper by Goto and Watanabe (2021) explores whether the mouse visual system is sensitive to Gestalt principles, using operant discrimination learning tasks similar to those used previously to document Gestalt processing in chimpanzees and humans. Qadri and Cook (2021) use the innovative approach of "adaptive genetic algorithms" to assess the relative importance of different features of a stimulus in controlling organisms' discrimination learning performance. Wittek et al. (2021) introduce a novel method for studying the importance of visual accumulation processes in pigeons when information is presented to a single hemisphere at a time. The paper by Cowie et al. (2021) focuses on a misallocation model of two-step sequence learning in young children and explores from a behavioranalytic viewpoint the implications of assuming that reinforcement might be misattributed to a misremembered response at the beginning of the behavioral sequence. The paper by López-Tolsa and Pellón (2021) explores whether the opportunity to display schedule-induced drinking as an early response within a behavioral sequence might alter the accuracy of temporal control in different-length fixed-interval schedule tasks with rats. Crystal (2021) reviews the literature examining episodic memory in nonhuman species and considers a variety of criteria and methods thought to be crucial for establishing empirical evidence for episodic memory in nonhumans, in general, and rats, in particular. Vila et al. (2021) discuss the use a novel 'hide-and-seek' task in preschool age children to study episodic-like memory; their work illustrates how memory dynamics can change over time in a manner not very unlike what has been demonstrated in other nonhuman research paradigms. The paper by Krichbaum et al. (2021) discusses some of the methodological difficulties one faces in studying spatial cognition in canines. The paper by Castro et al. (2021) uses a complex categorization learning task in which different sets of display features are diagnostic, or not, of category mastery depending upon context. The paper by Vernouillet et al. (2021) explores the formation of same/different concept learning in two species of corvids (pinyon jays and California scrub jays). The final paper, by Lazarowski et al. (2021) examines the possibility of abstract same/different learning in canines using a trial-unique training matching-to-sample procedure with olfactory stimuli. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid34616332, year = {2021}, author = {Bianchi, R and Schonfeld, IS}, title = {Occupational Depression, Cognitive Performance, and Task Appreciation: A Study Based on Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {695539}, pmid = {34616332}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {The Occupational Depression Inventory (ODI) was recently developed to assess depressive symptoms that individuals specifically attribute to their work. Research on the criterion validity of the instrument is still in its infancy. In this study, we examined whether the ODI predicted performance on, and appreciation of, a cognitively challenging test. In light of the link established between clinical depression and neuropsychological impairment, and considering that individuals with depressive symptoms are more likely to feel helpless under challenging circumstances, we hypothesized that occupational depression would be associated with poorer cognitive performance and a darkened appreciation of the task undertaken. We relied on a sample of 1,359 educational staff members. We used an abridged version of Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPMs) as a cognitively challenging task and measure of cognitive performance. RAPMs assess so-called eductive ability (meaning-making and problem-solving abilities) through items of various degrees of difficulty. Transient mood was assessed with a three-item measure before RAPMs were administered. Task appreciation was assessed with a single-item measure after the completion of RAPMs. We found occupational depression to be negatively linked to cognitive performance. A two-step cluster analysis, in which ODI and RAPMs scores were used as classifiers, revealed two profiles of respondents. The first profile was characterized by relatively low levels of depressive symptoms and high levels of cognitive performance; the second profile, by relatively high levels of depressive symptoms and low levels of cognitive performance. The two profiles differed strongly from one another, as indexed by Cohen's ds of 2.492 regarding depressive symptoms and 1.263 regarding cognitive performance. As anticipated, occupational depression predicted a darkened appreciation of the test. The association remained statistically significant, and largely unchanged, controlling for pretest mood and test performance. The highest levels of depressive symptoms were observed among individuals evaluating the task as "frustrating" and "discouraging." Our study suggests that occupational depression predicts poorer cognitive performance and a negativized experience of cognitive challenge. Such features may be part of a self-sustaining loop fostering the maintenance of depressive symptoms. The extent to which the ODI predicts performance in the work context needs to be investigated.}, }
@article {pmid34613989, year = {2021}, author = {Raymond, S and Schwartz, ALW and Thomas, RJ and Chadwick, E and Perkins, SE}, title = {Temporal patterns of wildlife roadkill in the UK.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {16}, number = {10}, pages = {e0258083}, pmid = {34613989}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Accidents, Traffic/*prevention &amp; control ; Animals ; Animals, Wild/*physiology ; Deer ; *Ecosystem ; Female ; Foxes/physiology ; Humans ; Male ; Rabbits ; Reproduction/*physiology ; Seasons ; United Kingdom/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Wildlife-vehicle collisions are one of the main causes of mortality for wild mammals and birds in the UK. Here, using a dataset of 54,000+ records collated by a citizen science roadkill recording scheme between 2014-2019, we analyse and present temporal patterns of wildlife roadkill of the 19 most commonly reported taxa in the UK (84% of all reported roadkill). Most taxa (13 out of 19) showed significant and consistent seasonal variations in road mortality and fitted one of two seasonal patterns; bimodal or unimodal: only three species (red fox Vulpes vulpes, European polecat Mustela putorius and Reeves' muntjac deer Muntiacus reevesi) showed no significant seasonality. Species that increase movement in spring and autumn potentially have bimodal patterns in roadkill due to the increase in mate-searching and juvenile dispersal during these respective time periods (e.g. European badger Meles meles). Unimodal patterns likely represent increased mortality due to a single short pulse in activity associated with breeding (e.g. birds) or foraging (e.g. grey squirrels Sciurus carolinensis in autumn). Importantly, these patterns also indicate periods of increased risk for drivers, potentially posing a greater threat to human welfare. In addition to behaviour-driven annual patterns, abiotic factors (temperature and rainfall) explained some variance in roadkill. Notably, high rainfall was associated with decreased observations of two bird taxa (gulls and Eurasian magpies Pica pica) and European rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus. By quantifying seasonal patterns in roadkill, we highlight a significant anthropogenic impact on wild species, which is important in relation to conservation, animal welfare, and human safety.}, }
@article {pmid34604660, year = {2021}, author = {Baky, MH and Shawky, EM and Elgindi, MR and Ibrahim, HA}, title = {Comparative Volatile Profiling of Ludwigia stolonifera Aerial Parts and Roots Using VSE-GC-MS/MS and Screening of Antioxidant and Metal Chelation Activities.}, journal = {ACS omega}, volume = {6}, number = {38}, pages = {24788-24794}, pmid = {34604660}, issn = {2470-1343}, abstract = {Ludwigia stolonifera (Guill. &amp; Perr.) P.H.Raven belonging to the family Onagraceae is an important aquatic herbal plant of economic importance in water bioremediation. We explored the compositional heterogeneity in the aroma profile of L. stolonifera aerial parts and roots. Volatile profiling was employed for the first time using volatile solvent extraction (VSE-GC-MS/MS) of both aerial parts and roots. A total of 85 volatiles were identified belonging to eight classes, viz., aliphatic, aromatic, and oxygenated hydrocarbons, monoterpenes, diterpenes, alcohols, acids/esters, and sterols. Aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons were found to be the most abundant metabolite groups in both aerial parts and roots. Furthermore, antioxidant and metal chelation activities of aerial parts and roots were investigated, revealing a potent activity as an antioxidant and high metal chelation capacity for heavy metals.}, }
@article {pmid34604259, year = {2021}, author = {DiNatale, L and Idkowiak-Baldys, J and Zhuang, Y and Gonzalez, A and Stephens, TJ and Jiang, LI and Li, W and Basson, R and Bayat, A}, title = {Novel Rotational Combination Regimen of Skin Topicals Improves Facial Photoaging: Efficacy Demonstrated in Double-Blinded Clinical Trials and Laboratory Validation.}, journal = {Frontiers in medicine}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {724344}, pmid = {34604259}, issn = {2296-858X}, abstract = {Topical antiaging products are often a first-line intervention to counter visible signs of facial photoaging, aiming for sustained cosmetic improvement. However, prolonged application of a single active topical compound was observed clinically to lead to a plateau effect in improving facial photoaging. In view of this, we set out to reduce this effect systematically using a multi-tiered approach with laboratory evidence and clinical trials. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of active topical ingredients applied either alone, in combination, or in a rotational manner on modulation of facial photoaging. The study methodology included in vitro, organotypic, and ex vivo skin explants; in vivo biopsy study; as well as clinical trials. We demonstrate for the first time that a pair of known antiaging ingredients applied rotationally, on human dermal fibroblasts, maximized pro-collagen I production. Indeed, rotational treatment with retinol and phytol/glycolic acid (PGA) resulted in better efficacy than application of each active ingredient alone as shown by explants and in vivo biopsy study, with penetration of active ingredients confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. Furthermore, two split-face, randomized, double-blinded clinical trials were conducted, one for 12 months to compare treated vs. untreated and the other for 6 months followed by a 2-month regression to compare treated vs. commercially marketed products. In both studies, rotational regimen showed superior results to its matching comparison as assessed by clinical grading and image analysis of crow's feet wrinkles. In conclusion, rotational regimen using retinol and PGA is effective in treating facial photoaging signs with long-lasting benefits.}, }
@article {pmid34596763, year = {2021}, author = {Cristiani, E and Menci, M and Papi, M and Brafman, L}, title = {An all-leader agent-based model for turning and flocking birds.}, journal = {Journal of mathematical biology}, volume = {83}, number = {4}, pages = {45}, pmid = {34596763}, issn = {1432-1416}, mesh = {Animals ; Models, Theoretical ; *Starlings ; }, abstract = {Starting from recent experimental observations of starlings and jackdaws, we propose a minimal agent-based mathematical model for bird flocks based on a system of second-order delayed stochastic differential equations with discontinuous (both in space and time) right-hand side. The model is specifically designed to reproduce self-organized spontaneous sudden changes of direction, not caused by external stimuli like predator's attacks. The main novelty of the model is that every bird is a potential turn initiator, thus leadership is formed in a group of indistinguishable agents. We investigate some theoretical properties of the model and we show the numerical results. Biological insights are also discussed.}, }
@article {pmid34592662, year = {2022}, author = {Hossain, SMZ and Sultana, N and Mohammed, ME and Razzak, SA and Hossain, MM}, title = {Hybrid support vector regression and crow search algorithm for modeling and multiobjective optimization of microalgae-based wastewater treatment.}, journal = {Journal of environmental management}, volume = {301}, number = {}, pages = {113783}, doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.113783}, pmid = {34592662}, issn = {1095-8630}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Animals ; Biomass ; *Chlorella ; *Crows ; *Microalgae ; Nitrogen ; Wastewater ; *Water Purification ; }, abstract = {Microalgae-based wastewater treatment (and biomass production) is an environmentally benign and energetically efficient technique as compared to traditional practices. The present study is focused on optimization of the major treatment variables such as temperature, light-dark cycle (LD), and nitrogen (N)-to-phosphate (P) ratio (N/P) for the elimination of N and P from tertiary municipal wastewater utilizing Chlorella kessleri microalgae species. In this regard, a hybrid support vector regression (SVR) technique integrated with the crow search algorithm has been applied as a novel modeling/optimization tool. The SVR models were formulated using the experimental data, which were furnished according to the response surface methodology with Box-Behnken Design. Various statistical indicators, including mean absolute percentage error, Taylor diagram, and fractional bias, confirmed the superior performance of SVR models as compared to the response surface methodology (RSM) and generalized linear model (GLM). Finally, the best SVR model was hybridized with the crow search algorithm for single/multi-objective optimizations to acquire the global optimal treatment conditions for maximum N and P removal efficiencies. The best-operating conditions were found to be 29.3°C, 24/0 h/h of LD, and 6:1 of N/P, with N and P elimination efficiencies of 99.97 and 93.48%, respectively. The optimized values were further confirmed by new experimental data.}, }
@article {pmid34587009, year = {2021}, author = {Zhuo, T and Huang, Q and Kankanhalli, M}, title = {Unsupervised Abstract Reasoning for Raven's Problem Matrices.}, journal = {IEEE transactions on image processing : a publication of the IEEE Signal Processing Society}, volume = {30}, number = {}, pages = {8332-8341}, doi = {10.1109/TIP.2021.3114987}, pmid = {34587009}, issn = {1941-0042}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Neural Networks, Computer ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM) is highly correlated with human intelligence, and it has been widely used to measure the abstract reasoning ability of humans. In this paper, to study the abstract reasoning capability of deep neural networks, we propose the first unsupervised learning method for solving RPM problems. Since the ground truth labels are not allowed, we design a pseudo target based on the prior constraints of the RPM formulation to approximate the ground-truth label, which effectively converts the unsupervised learning strategy into a supervised one. However, the correct answer is wrongly labelled by the pseudo target, and thus the noisy contrast will lead to inaccurate model training. To alleviate this issue, we propose to improve the model performance with negative answers. Moreover, we develop a decentralization method to adapt the feature representation to different RPM problems. Extensive experiments on three datasets demonstrate that our method even outperforms some of the supervised approaches. Our code is available at https://github.com/visiontao/ncd.}, }
@article {pmid34578176, year = {2021}, author = {Lopes, C and Brandão, R and Lopes, AF and Sargo, R and Casero, M and Nunes, C and Silva, F and Dubey, JP and Cardoso, L and Lopes, AP}, title = {Prevalence of Antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii in Different Wild Bird Species Admitted to Rehabilitation Centres in Portugal.}, journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {10}, number = {9}, pages = {}, pmid = {34578176}, issn = {2076-0817}, support = {UIDB/CVT/00772/2020//Funda&#xe7;&#xe3;o para a Ci&#xea;ncia e a Tecnologia/ ; }, abstract = {Toxoplasma gondii is a worldwide zoonotic parasite. According to the "One Health" approach, studies on toxoplasmosis are essential since it affects humans and domestic and wild animals. In the present study, antibodies to T. gondii were determined in serum samples from 263 wild birds located in five wildlife rehabilitation centres in mainland Portugal by using the modified agglutination test (MAT) with a cut-off titre of 20. An overall seroprevalence of 36.5% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 30.7-42.6) was observed. For the first time, antibodies to T. gondii were detected in some avian species, including pallid swift (Apus pallidus) (33.3%), black-backed gull (Larus fuscus) (39.3%), European turtle-dove (Streptopelia turtur) (100%), bee-eater (Merops apiaster) (50.0%), carrion crow (Corvus corone) (33.3%), and Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus) (100%), which expands the list of intermediate hosts of T. gondii. A lower seroprevalence was found in juvenile birds (31.9%) compared to adults (48.7%) (p = 0.016). The central region of Portugal was considered a risk factor for T. gondii infection in wild birds (odds ratio: 3.61; 95% CI: 1.09-11.91). This pioneer study calls attention to the need for further studies, to provide a clearer understanding of T. gondii epidemiology in Portugal, because it reflects wide dispersion of T. gondii oocysts in the environment.}, }
@article {pmid34566706, year = {2021}, author = {Eutrope, J and Novo, A and Barbe, C and Loron, G and Rolland, AC and Caillies, S}, title = {Impact of Executive Functions and Parental Anxiety on the Development of Social Cognition in Premature Children: A Cross-Sectional Case-Control Protocol.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychiatry}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {484571}, pmid = {34566706}, issn = {1664-0640}, abstract = {Background: Recent research has identified neuropsychological disorders, specifically executive function disorders, in premature children. Executive functions support goal-oriented mental activity and play a role in the development of social cognition. This underlies the social and emotional behavior of individuals. Parental anxiety is also an important environmental factor that can influence the psycho-emotional development of children. Objectives: The present protocol aims to compare the development of social cognition in school-age children born prematurely to that of school-age children born full-term, and to determine the impact of executive (dys)function and parental anxiety on such development. Methods/Design: In this cross-sectional protocol, 28 prematurely born children aged 7-10 years ("preterm") and 28 full-term born children aged 7-10 years ("control") will be included. The "preterm" and "control" groups will be matched for sex and age. The neuropsychological evaluation will include that of non-verbal intellectual efficiency (Raven's colored progressive matrices), verbal level (WISC-IV subtests), and executive functions (NEPSY II subtests and the opposite worlds of TEA-CH). The evaluation of social cognition will be conducted via tests of the theory of cognitive and affective mind. Several dimensions of the level of parental anxiety will be collected through the Spielberg Trait Anxiety Inventory Form Y, Beck Depression Inventory, Social Support Questionnaire-6, Parental Stress Index and, specifically for mothers, the Modified Perinatal Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Questionnaire. Discussion: The results of this protocol will aid our understanding of the development of social cognition in premature children and to determine the factors that influence such development. This clinical research project, although following a fundamental approach, will have clinical implications because a more precise description of the development of social cognition in this school-age population will make it possible to better determine the cognitive targets of therapeutic actions and to search for predictive indices of the efficacy of practices. Trial Registration:https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03007095, identifier: NCT03007095.}, }
@article {pmid34558671, year = {2021}, author = {Jaffe, RJ and Constantinidis, C}, title = {Working Memory: From Neural Activity to the Sentient Mind.}, journal = {Comprehensive Physiology}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {2547-2587}, pmid = {34558671}, issn = {2040-4603}, support = {R01 EY017077/EY/NEI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH116675/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Brain ; Cognition ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Neurons ; *Prefrontal Cortex ; }, abstract = {Working memory (WM) is the ability to maintain and manipulate information in the conscious mind over a timescale of seconds. This ability is thought to be maintained through the persistent discharges of neurons in a network of brain areas centered on the prefrontal cortex, as evidenced by neurophysiological recordings in nonhuman primates, though both the localization and the neural basis of WM has been a matter of debate in recent years. Neural correlates of WM are evident in species other than primates, including rodents and corvids. A specialized network of excitatory and inhibitory neurons, aided by neuromodulatory influences of dopamine, is critical for the maintenance of neuronal activity. Limitations in WM capacity and duration, as well as its enhancement during development, can be attributed to properties of neural activity and circuits. Changes in these factors can be observed through training-induced improvements and in pathological impairments. WM thus provides a prototypical cognitive function whose properties can be tied to the spiking activity of brain neurons. © 2021 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 11:1-41, 2021.}, }
@article {pmid34555011, year = {2021}, author = {Camacho Mateu, J and Sireci, M and Muñoz, MA}, title = {Phenotypic-dependent variability and the emergence of tolerance in bacterial populations.}, journal = {PLoS computational biology}, volume = {17}, number = {9}, pages = {e1009417}, pmid = {34555011}, issn = {1553-7358}, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Bacteria/drug effects ; *Bacterial Physiological Phenomena ; Biological Evolution ; Computational Biology ; Computer Simulation ; Drug Tolerance ; Microbiota/drug effects/physiology ; Models, Biological ; Phenotype ; Stress, Physiological ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; }, abstract = {Ecological and evolutionary dynamics have been historically regarded as unfolding at broadly separated timescales. However, these two types of processes are nowadays well-documented to intersperse much more tightly than traditionally assumed, especially in communities of microorganisms. Advancing the development of mathematical and computational approaches to shed novel light onto eco-evolutionary problems is a challenge of utmost relevance. With this motivation in mind, here we scrutinize recent experimental results showing evidence of rapid evolution of tolerance by lag in bacterial populations that are periodically exposed to antibiotic stress in laboratory conditions. In particular, the distribution of single-cell lag times-i.e., the times that individual bacteria from the community remain in a dormant state to cope with stress-evolves its average value to approximately fit the antibiotic-exposure time. Moreover, the distribution develops right-skewed heavy tails, revealing the presence of individuals with anomalously large lag times. Here, we develop a parsimonious individual-based model mimicking the actual demographic processes of the experimental setup. Individuals are characterized by a single phenotypic trait: their intrinsic lag time, which is transmitted with variation to the progeny. The model-in a version in which the amplitude of phenotypic variations grows with the parent's lag time-is able to reproduce quite well the key empirical observations. Furthermore, we develop a general mathematical framework allowing us to describe with good accuracy the properties of the stochastic model by means of a macroscopic equation, which generalizes the Crow-Kimura equation in population genetics. Even if the model does not account for all the biological mechanisms (e.g., genetic changes) in a detailed way-i.e., it is a phenomenological one-it sheds light onto the eco-evolutionary dynamics of the problem and can be helpful to design strategies to hinder the emergence of tolerance in bacterial communities. From a broader perspective, this work represents a benchmark for the mathematical framework designed to tackle much more general eco-evolutionary problems, thus paving the road to further research avenues.}, }
@article {pmid34549646, year = {2022}, author = {Cowan, ES and Dill, LJ and Sutton, S}, title = {Collective Healing: A Framework for Building Transformative Collaborations in Public Health.}, journal = {Health promotion practice}, volume = {23}, number = {3}, pages = {356-360}, doi = {10.1177/15248399211032607}, pmid = {34549646}, issn = {1524-8399}, mesh = {Humans ; *Public Health ; }, abstract = {The capacity of cross-sector collaboration to create meaningful change across social-ecological levels has long been understood in public health. But the ability of cross-sector collaboration to achieve systemic change around the structural determinants of health remains complicated. In 2021, now more than ever, we understand the imperative of strengthening the capacity of collaborative efforts to address the myriad structural health crises facing our communities, from police violence and mass incarceration to Jim Crow laws and redlining, to urban renewal and environmental injustice. Our proposed collective healing framework brings together the collective impact model and radical healing framework to offer a blueprint for cross-sector collaboration that understands the practices of healing to be at the center of public health collaborations and public health practice at large. In this framework, public health practitioners and our collaborators are asked to prioritize relationship building, engage in critical self-reflection, to move beyond compromise, to address differences, to interrogate traditional metrics and approaches, to remake the collective table, and to build shared understanding through action.}, }
@article {pmid34534371, year = {2022}, author = {Allen, S and Held, S and Milne-Price, S and McCormick, A and Feng, D and Inouye, J and Schure, M and Castille, D and Howe, RB and Pitts, M and Keene, S and Belone, L and Wallerstein, N}, title = {Community sharing: Contextualizing Western research notions of contamination within an Indigenous research paradigm.}, journal = {American journal of community psychology}, volume = {69}, number = {1-2}, pages = {145-156}, pmid = {34534371}, issn = {1573-2770}, support = {U01 MD010619/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; U54 GM104944/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Chronic Disease ; *Health Services, Indigenous ; Humans ; *Population Groups ; Universities ; }, abstract = {Báa nnilah is a chronic illness self-management program designed by and for the Apsáalooke (Crow) community. Arising from a collaboration between an Indigenous nonprofit organization and a university-based research team, Báa nnilah's development, implementation, and evaluation have been influenced by both Indigenous and Western research paradigms (WRPs). Báa nnilah was evaluated using a randomized wait-list control group design. In a WRP, contamination, or intervention information shared by the intervention group with the control group, is actively discouraged as it makes ascertaining causality difficult, if not impossible. This approach is not consonant with Apsáalooke cultural values that include the encouragement of sharing helpful information with others, supporting an Indigenous research paradigm's (IRP) goal of benefiting the community. The purpose of this paper is to address contamination and sharing as an area of tension between WRP and IRP. We describe how the concepts of contamination and sharing within Báa nnilah's implementation and evaluation are interpreted differently when viewed from these contrasting paradigms, and set forth a call for greater exploration of Indigenous research approaches for developing, implementing, and evaluating intervention programs in Indigenous communities. (Improving Chronic Illness Management with the Apsáalooke Nation: The Báa nnilah Project.: NCT03036189), ClinicalTrials. gov: NCT03036189).}, }
@article {pmid34532917, year = {2022}, author = {Bauch, C and Boonekamp, JJ and Korsten, P and Mulder, E and Verhulst, S}, title = {High heritability of telomere length and low heritability of telomere shortening in wild birds.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {31}, number = {23}, pages = {6308-6323}, pmid = {34532917}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Telomere Shortening/genetics ; Animals, Wild/genetics ; Birds/genetics ; Biological Evolution ; Telomere/genetics ; *Crows/genetics ; }, abstract = {Telomere length and telomere shortening predict survival in many organisms. This raises the question of the contribution of genetic and environmental effects to variation in these traits, which is still poorly known, particularly for telomere shortening. We used experimental (cross-fostering) and statistical (quantitative genetic "animal models") means to disentangle and estimate genetic and environmental contributions to telomere length variation in pedigreed free-living jackdaws (Corvus monedula). Telomere length was measured twice in nestlings, at ages 4 (n = 715) and 29 days (n = 474), using telomere restriction fragment (TRF) analysis, adapted to exclude interstitial telomeric sequences. Telomere length shortened significantly over the nestling period (10.4 ± 0.3 bp day[-1]) and was highly phenotypically (rP = 0.95 ± 0.01) and genetically (rG > 0.99 ± 0.01) correlated within individuals. Additive genetic effects explained a major part of telomere length variation among individuals, with its heritability estimated at h[2] = 0.74 on average. We note that TRF-based studies reported higher heritabilities than qPCR-based studies, and we discuss possible explanations. Parent-offspring regressions yielded similar heritability estimates for mothers and fathers when accounting for changes in paternal telomere length over life. Year effects explained a small but significant part of telomere length variation. Heritable variation for telomere shortening was low (h[2] = 0.09 ± 0.11). The difference in heritability between telomere length (high) and telomere shortening (low) agrees with evolutionary theory, in that telomere shortening has stronger fitness consequences in this population. Despite the high heritability of telomere length, its evolvability, which scales the additive genetic variance by mean telomere length, was on average 0.48%. Hence, evolutionary change of telomere length due to selection is likely to be slow.}, }
@article {pmid34528189, year = {2022}, author = {Ehteram, M and Panahi, F and Ahmed, AN and Huang, YF and Kumar, P and Elshafie, A}, title = {Predicting evaporation with optimized artificial neural network using multi-objective salp swarm algorithm.}, journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international}, volume = {29}, number = {7}, pages = {10675-10701}, pmid = {34528189}, issn = {1614-7499}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Malaysia ; *Neural Networks, Computer ; Uncertainty ; Water ; }, abstract = {Evaporation is a crucial component to be established in agriculture management and water engineering. Evaporation prediction is thus an essential issue for modeling researchers. In this study, the multilayer perceptron (MLP) was used for predicting daily evaporation. MLP model is as one of the famous ANN models with multilayers for predicting different target variables. A new strategy was used to enhance the accuracy of the MLP model. Three multi-objective algorithms, namely, the multi-objective salp swarm algorithm (MOSSA), the multi-objective crow algorithm (MOCA), and the multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO), were respectively and separately coupled to the MLP model for determining the model parameters, the best input combination, and the best activation function. In this study, three stations in Malaysia, namely, the Muadzam Shah (MS), the Kuala Terengganu (KT), and the Kuantan (KU), were selected for the prediction of the respective daily evaporation. The spacing (SP) and maximum spread (MS) indices were used to evaluate the quality of generated Pareto front (PF) by the algorithms. The lower SP and higher MS showed better PF for the models. It was observed that the MOSSA had higher MS and lower SP than the other algorithms, at all stations. The root means square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), percent bias (PBIAS), and Nash Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) quantifiers were used to compare the ability of the models with each other. The MLP-MOSSA had reduced RMSE compared to the MLP-MOCA, MLP-MOPSO, and MLP models by 18%, 25%, and 35%, respectively, at the MS station. The MAE of the MLP-MOSSA was 2.7%, 4.1%, and 26%, respectively lower than those of the MLP-MOCA, MLP-MOPSO, and MLP models at the KU station. The MLP-MOSSA showed lower MAE than the MLP-MOCA, MLP-MOPSO, and MLP models by 16%, 18%, and 19%, respectively, at the KT station. An uncertainty analysis was performed based on the input and parameter uncertainty. The results indicated that the MLP-MOSSA had the lowest uncertainty among the models. Also, the input uncertainty was lower than the parameter uncertainty. The general results indicated that the MLP-MOSSA had the high efficiency for predicting evaporation.}, }
@article {pmid34522959, year = {2022}, author = {Rodríguez, JM and Bae, B and Geronimus, AT and Bound, J}, title = {The Political Realignment of Health: How Partisan Power Shaped Infant Health in the United States, 1915-2017.}, journal = {Journal of health politics, policy and law}, volume = {47}, number = {2}, pages = {201-224}, pmid = {34522959}, issn = {1527-1927}, support = {P2C HD041028/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Government Agencies ; Humans ; Infant ; *Infant Health ; Mass Gatherings ; Policy ; *Politics ; United States ; }, abstract = {The US two-party system was transformed in the 1960s when the Democratic Party abandoned its Jim Crow protectionism to incorporate the policy agenda fostered by the civil rights movement, and the Republican Party redirected its platform toward socioeconomic and racial conservatism. The authors argue that the policy agendas promoted by the two parties through presidents and state legislatures codify a racially patterned access to resources and power detrimental to the health of all. To test the hypothesis that fluctuations in overall and race-specific infant mortality rates (IMRs) shift between the parties in power before and after the political realignment (PR), the authors apply panel data analysis methods to state-level data from the National Center for Health Statistics for the period 1915 through 2017. Net of trend, overall, and race-specific IMRs were not statistically different between presidential parties before the PR. This pattern, however, changed after the PR, with Republican administrations consistently underperforming Democratic ones. Net of trend, non-Southern state legislatures controlled by Republicans underperform Democratic ones in overall and racial IMRs in both periods.}, }
@article {pmid34516784, year = {2021}, author = {Haslam, SA}, title = {Leveraging the collective mindThe Power of Us Jay J. Van Bavel and Dominic J. Packer Little, Brown Spark, 2021. 320 pp.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {373}, number = {6560}, pages = {1206}, doi = {10.1126/science.abl5269}, pmid = {34516784}, issn = {1095-9203}, abstract = {Shared social identities can better prepare us to confront societal problems.}, }
@article {pmid34505575, year = {2021}, author = {Amodio, P and Farrar, BG and Krupenye, C and Ostojić, L and Clayton, NS}, title = {Little evidence that Eurasian jays protect their caches by responding to cues about a conspecific's desire and visual perspective.}, journal = {eLife}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {34505575}, issn = {2050-084X}, support = {BB/M011194/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cues ; *Feeding Behavior ; Food ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Eurasian jays have been reported to protect their caches by responding to cues about either the visual perspective or current desire of an observing conspecific, similarly to other corvids. Here, we used established paradigms to test whether these birds can - like humans - integrate multiple cues about different mental states and perform an optimal response accordingly. Across five experiments, which also include replications of previous work, we found little evidence that our jays adjusted their caching behaviour in line with the visual perspective and current desire of another agent, neither by integrating these social cues nor by responding to only one type of cue independently. These results raise questions about the reliability of the previously reported effects and highlight several key issues affecting reliability in comparative cognition research.}, }
@article {pmid34483862, year = {2021}, author = {Alghamdi, RJ and Murphy, MJ and Goharpey, N and Crewther, SG}, title = {The Age-Related Changes in Speed of Visual Perception, Visual Verbal and Visuomotor Performance, and Nonverbal Intelligence During Early School Years.}, journal = {Frontiers in human neuroscience}, volume = {15}, number = {}, pages = {667612}, pmid = {34483862}, issn = {1662-5161}, abstract = {Speed of sensory information processing has long been recognized as an important characteristic of global intelligence, though few studies have concurrently investigated the contribution of different types of information processing to nonverbal IQ in children, nor looked at whether chronological age vs. months of early schooling plays a larger role. Thus, this study investigated the speed of visual information processing in three tasks including a simple visual inspection time (IT) task, a visual-verbal processing task using Rapid Automatic Naming (RAN) of objects as an accepted preschool predictor of reading, and a visuomotor processing task using a game-like iPad application, (the "SLURP" task) that requires writing like skills, in association with nonverbal IQ (Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices) in children (n = 100) aged 5-7 years old. Our results indicate that the rate and accuracy of information processing for all three tasks develop with age, but that only RAN and SLURP rates show significant improvement with years of schooling. RAN and SLURP also correlated significantly with nonverbal IQ scores, but not with IT. Regression analyses demonstrate that months of formal schooling provide additional contributions to the speed of dual-task visual-verbal (RAN) and visuomotor performance and Raven's scores supporting the domain-specific hypothesis of processing speed development for specific skills as they contribute to global measures such as nonverbal IQ. Finally, RAN and SLURP are likely to be useful measures for the early identification of young children with lower intelligence and potentially poor reading.}, }
@article {pmid34479861, year = {2022}, author = {Videman, K and Hallamaa, L and Heimonen, O and Mangani, C and Luntamo, M and Maleta, K and Ashorn, P and Ashorn, U}, title = {Child growth and neurodevelopment after maternal antenatal antibiotic treatment.}, journal = {Archives of disease in childhood}, volume = {107}, number = {4}, pages = {323-328}, pmid = {34479861}, issn = {1468-2044}, mesh = {Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use ; *Antimalarials/therapeutic use ; Azithromycin ; Child ; Drug Combinations ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Growth Disorders/drug therapy/epidemiology/prevention &amp; control ; Humans ; Pregnancy ; *Pregnancy Complications, Parasitic/drug therapy/epidemiology/prevention &amp; control ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To assess whether intermittent preventive treatment of pregnant women (IPTp) with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) and azithromycin (AZI) in a malaria-endemic area leads to sustained gains in linear growth and development in their offspring.<br><br>DESIGN: Follow-up study of a randomised trial.<br><br>SETTING: Mangochi District in rural southern Malawi.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: 1320 pregnant women and their offspring.<br><br>INTERVENTIONS: IPTp monthly with SP and twice with AZI (AZI-SP group), monthly with SP but no AZI (monthly SP), or twice with SP (control). No intervention was given to children.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Cognitive performance using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM) at 13 years of age; mean height and height-for-age Z-score (HAZ), cumulative incidence and prevalence of stunting (HAZ <-2); weight, body mass index, mid-upper-arm circumference and head circumference.<br><br>RESULTS: At approximately 13 years of age, the mean CPM score was 14.3 (SD 3.8, range 6-29, maximum 36), with no differences between groups. Children in the AZI-SP group were on average 0.4&#x2009;cm (95%&#x2009;CI -0.9 to 1.7, p=0.6) taller than those in the control group. For cumulative incidence of stunting, the HR in the AZI-SP group was 0.72 (95% CI 0.61 to 0.84, p<0.001) compared with the control and 0.76 (95% CI 0.65 to 0.90, p<0.001) compared with the monthly SP groups. There was no intergroup difference in stunting prevalence or anthropometric measurements.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In rural Malawi, maternal intensified infection control during pregnancy reduces offspring's cumulative incidence of ever being stunted by 13 years of age. In this study, there was no evidence of a positive impact on cognitive performance.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT00131235.}, }
@article {pmid34465241, year = {2021}, author = {Boeckle, M and Schiestl, M and Frohnwieser, A and Gruber, R and Miller, R and Suddendorf, T and Gray, RD and Taylor, AH and Clayton, NS}, title = {New Caledonian crows' planning behaviour: a reply to de Mahy et al.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {288}, number = {1958}, pages = {20211271}, pmid = {34465241}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; *Crows ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, }
@article {pmid34465238, year = {2021}, author = {de Mahy, D and Esteve, NA and Santariello, A}, title = {New test, old problems: comment on 'New Caledonian crows plan for specific future tool use'.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {288}, number = {1958}, pages = {20210186}, pmid = {34465238}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition ; *Crows ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, }
@article {pmid34460065, year = {2021}, author = {Zhang, C and Yang, Y and Hu, T and Zhou, H and Zhang, C and Cao, J and Li, J and Wang, P and Wong, G and Wang, X and Song, H and Gao, GF and Shi, W and Bi, Y}, title = {Three Novel Avastroviruses Identified in Dead Wild Crows.}, journal = {Virologica Sinica}, volume = {36}, number = {6}, pages = {1673-1677}, pmid = {34460065}, issn = {1995-820X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Avastrovirus ; *Crows ; }, }
@article {pmid34457330, year = {2021}, author = {Schnell, AK and Loconsole, M and Garcia-Pelegrin, E and Wilkins, C and Clayton, NS}, title = {Jays are sensitive to cognitive illusions.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {8}, number = {8}, pages = {202358}, pmid = {34457330}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {Jays hide food caches, steal them from conspecifics and use tactics to minimize cache theft. Jays are sensitive to the content of their own caches, retrieving items depending on their preferences and the perishability of the cached item. Whether jays impose the same content sensitivity when they steal caches is less clear. We adapted the 'cups-and-balls' magic routine, creating a cognitive illusion to test whether jays are sensitive to the (i) content of hidden items and (ii) type of displacement. Subjects were presented with two conditions in which hidden food was consistent with their expectations; and two conditions in which food was manipulated to violate their expectations by switching their second preferred food for their preferred food (up-value) or vice versa (de-value). Subjects readily accepted food when it was consistent with their expectations but were more likely to re-inspect the baited cup and alternative cup when their expectations were violated. In the de-value condition, jays exhibited longer latencies to consume the food and often rejected it. Dominant subjects were more likely to reject the food, suggesting that social factors influence their responses to cognitive illusions. Using cognitive illusions offers innovative avenues for investigating the psychological constraints in diverse animal minds.}, }
@article {pmid34456766, year = {2021}, author = {Lutz, M and Streb, J and Titze, L and Büsselmann, M and Riemat, N and Prüter-Schwarte, C and Dudeck, M}, title = {Migrants With Schizophrenia in Forensic Psychiatric Hospitals Benefit From High-Intensity Second Language Programs.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychiatry}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {711836}, pmid = {34456766}, issn = {1664-0640}, abstract = {Background: As a result of migration, an increasing number of patients in forensic psychiatric hospitals show poor skills in the national language, which can affect their treatment. Improving the second language (L2) of inpatients with schizophrenia may help to enable effective psychotherapy and thus reduce the risk of criminal recidivism and facilitate reintegration into society, for example because of a language-related higher degree of social functioning. For this purpose, a Hessian forensic psychiatric hospital established a ward specialized in L2 acquisition. The ward accommodates up to 21 patients with schizophrenia, who attend an L2 program consisting of 800-900 lessons within 1 year. Aims: The study aimed to evaluate whether patients on the specialized ward (experimental group) achieve at least Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level A2 in the L2 program. Additionally, it examined whether language acquisition is better among participants in the experimental group than among those on regular wards (control group). Methods: Achievements in the L2 were assessed by an L2 test 3 times: at the beginning of the program, after 6 months, and after 1 year. The impact of intelligence on achievements in L2 was evaluated using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. Results: The experimental group showed significantly better improvement than the control group. Literacy was a significant predictor of improvement in the L2. The majority of the experimental group reached at least CEFR level A2 after 1 year. Conclusions: High-intensity L2 programs are an effective way to improve the L2 of inpatients with schizophrenia in forensic psychiatric hospitals.}, }
@article {pmid38217213, year = {2021}, author = {Vaser, R and Šikić, M}, title = {Time- and memory-efficient genome assembly with Raven.}, journal = {Nature computational science}, volume = {1}, number = {5}, pages = {332-336}, pmid = {38217213}, issn = {2662-8457}, support = {IP-2018-01-5886//Hrvatska Zaklada za Znanost (Croatian Science Foundation)/ ; KK.01.1.1.01.0009//EC | European Regional Development Fund (Europski Fond za Regionalni Razvoj)/ ; }, abstract = {Whole genome sequencing technologies are unable to invariably read DNA molecules intact, a shortcoming that assemblers try to resolve by stitching the obtained fragments back together. Here, we present methods for the improvement of de novo genome assembly from erroneous long reads incorporated into a tool called Raven. Raven maintains similar performance for various genomes and has accuracy on par with other assemblers that support third-generation sequencing data. It is one of the fastest options while having the lowest memory consumption on the majority of benchmarked datasets.}, }
@article {pmid35719894, year = {2021}, author = {Hentati-Sundberg, J and Berglund, PA and Hejdström, A and Olsson, O}, title = {COVID-19 lockdown reveals tourists as seabird guardians.}, journal = {Biological conservation}, volume = {254}, number = {}, pages = {108950}, pmid = {35719894}, issn = {0006-3207}, abstract = {The widespread lockdowns put in place to limit the spread of the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) offers a rare opportunity in understanding how human presence influence ecosystems. Using data from long-term seabird monitoring, we reveal a previously concealed guarding effect by tourist groups on an iconic seabird colony in the Baltic Sea. The absence of tourists in 2020 lead to a sevenfold increase in presence of white-tailed eagles Haliaeetus albicilla, a sevenfold increase in their disturbance of breeding common murres Uria aalge and causing 26% lower murre productivity than the long-term average. Eagles did not prey on murres, but their frequent disturbances delayed egg laying and facilitated egg predation from herring gulls Larus argentatus and hooded crows Corvus cornix. Based on our findings, we suggest that human presence could be used as a strategic measure in guarding seabird colonies, and that a social-ecological systems perspective is vital for long-term success in protected area management.}, }
@article {pmid36133889, year = {2020}, author = {Annadhasan, M and Kumar, AV and Venkatakrishnarao, D and Mamonov, EA and Chandrasekar, R}, title = {Mechanophotonics: precise selection, assembly and disassembly of polymer optical microcavities via mechanical manipulation for spectral engineering.}, journal = {Nanoscale advances}, volume = {2}, number = {12}, pages = {5584-5590}, pmid = {36133889}, issn = {2516-0230}, abstract = {The advancement of nanoscience and technology relies on the development and utility of innovative techniques. Precise manipulation of photonic microcavities is one of the fundamental challenges in nanophotonics. This challenge impedes the construction of optoelectronic and photonic microcircuits. As a proof-of-principle, we demonstrate here that an atomic force microscopy cantilever and confocal microscopy can be used together to mechanically micromanipulate polymer-based whispering gallery mode microcavities or microresonators into well-ordered geometries. The micromanipulation technique efficiently assembles or disassembles resonators and also produces well-ordered dimer, trimer, tetramer, and pentamer assemblies of resonators in linear and bent geometries. Interestingly, an intricate L-shaped coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) comprising a pentamer assembly effectively transduces light through a 90° bend angle. The presented new research direction, which combines mechanical manipulation and nanophotonics, is also expected to open up a plethora of opportunities in nano and microstructure-based research areas including nanoelectronics and nanobiology.}, }
@article {pmid34909003, year = {2020}, author = {Höijer, I and Ilonen, T and Löyttyniemi, E and Salokangas, RKR}, title = {Onset Age of Substance Use and Neuropsychological Performance in Hospital Patients.}, journal = {Clinical neuropsychiatry}, volume = {17}, number = {5}, pages = {271-280}, pmid = {34909003}, issn = {2385-0787}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Several studies have found neurocognitive deficits in adolescents following substance abuse. Predisposing risk factors may further impact vulnerability to neurocognitive deficits. Little is known about the cognitive performance of adult onset substance users compared to earlier onset users. This study aims to explore differences in neuropsychological functioning between early (EOAs) and late onset substance abusers (LOAs) when the effects of confounding factors are controlled.<br><br>METHOD: Data for this cross-sectional study was collected from hospital patients. A total of 164 patients with substance use disorder (SUD) aged 19 to 65, 76 with single-drug diagnosis and 88 with multidrug diagnosis, underwent neuropsychological tests for verbal capacity, attention, speed of processing, perceptual reasoning, memory and learning, executive functioning, and inhibitory capacity. Associations between regular onset age and neuropsychological measures were analysed using in multi-way ANCOVA, and the effect of age, multiple substance abuse, education level and learning difficulties were controlled.<br><br>RESULTS: Compared with LOAs, EOAs had weaker performance in the Digit Symbol test for mono-substance users. Meanwhile, compared with EOAs, LOAs had weaker performance in the Delayed Visual Memory test and the Raven test for mono-substance users, and the Block Design test for poly-substance users. From the confounding factors, early onset age of substance use is heightened among individuals with learning disabilities.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Onset age of substance use is related to the deterioration of performance in neuropsychological tests. Premorbid poor learning and inhibitory capacity may be important predisposing risk factors of SUD. Conversely, high level of education may be a protective factor for cognitive performance in patients with SUD.}, }
@article {pmid34616929, year = {2021}, author = {Yang, C and Huang, J and Liang, W and Møller, AP}, title = {Absence of anti-parasitic defenses in an Asian population of the magpie, a regular host of the great spotted cuckoo in Europe.}, journal = {Current zoology}, volume = {67}, number = {3}, pages = {345-347}, pmid = {34616929}, issn = {1674-5507}, }
@article {pmid39026409, year = {2020}, author = {Barath, H}, title = {Flocking Phase Change: New work shows how jackdaw flocks (sometimes) transition from chaos to order.}, journal = {Scientific American}, volume = {322}, number = {2}, pages = {21}, doi = {10.1038/scientificamerican0220-21}, pmid = {39026409}, issn = {0036-8733}, }
@article {pmid36819761, year = {2019}, author = {McCrary, LL}, title = {To Be Young, Black, and Powerless: Disenfranchisement in the New Jim Crow Era.}, journal = {Journal of healthcare, science and the humanities}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {32-37}, pmid = {36819761}, issn = {2159-8819}, abstract = {This article examines the challenges of being young and black in America. In the United States, African Americans have historically suffered from systemic discrimination. Such discrimination deprived them of fundamental rights such as the right to vote. Although African Americans are no longer denied the right to vote based solely on race, the future of the black vote remains threatened by the criminalization of African American youth. African American youths are increasing alienated from systems that are supposed to help them. They are excessively disciplined in schools and disproportionately incarcerated, resulting in the New Jim Crow. This article recounts some of the reasons why and what can be done to address these problems.}, }
@article {pmid34949081, year = {1987}, author = {Miller, JS}, title = {HOST-PLANT RELATIONSHIPS IN THE PAPILIONIDAE (LEPIDOPTERA): PARALLEL CLADOGENESIS OR COLONIZATION?.}, journal = {Cladistics : the international journal of the Willi Hennig Society}, volume = {3}, number = {2}, pages = {105-120}, doi = {10.1111/j.1096-0031.1987.tb00501.x}, pmid = {34949081}, issn = {1096-0031}, abstract = {Abstract- Stepwise coevolution, as defined by Ehrlich and Raven (1964) and others, can be equated with parallel cladogenesis or association by descent (Mitter and Brooks, 1983). I review the insect/plant literature and discuss recent cladistic findings for the Papilionidae, and compare two contrasting theories: 1) that insect/host associations have evolved through parallel cladogenesis; or 2) that insects have 'colonized' their hosts subsequent to plant cladogenesis. I conclude that no documented examples of parallel cladogenesis between insects and plants are known. The swallowtail cladograms instead offer evidence in support of the second theory. They suggest that host association patterns in the Papilionidae have resulted from repeated colonization of plants belonging to a relatively small number of families. I discuss data which indicate that plant secondary chemicals have been important 'barriers' to colonization (sensu Ehrlich and Raven, 1964), and have in large part mediated host switching in the Papilionidae.}, }
@article {pmid35829363, year = {1888}, author = {}, title = {Our New York Letter: Neurasthenia-Distinguished Medical Visitors-Counter-Prescribing-Jay Gould's Physician.}, journal = {Atlanta medical and surgical journal (1884)}, volume = {5}, number = {10}, pages = {626-628}, pmid = {35829363}, }
@article {pmid36491500, year = {1884}, author = {}, title = {Eating Crow: The Origin of the Phrase That Is Just Now of Such Interest.}, journal = {Hall's journal of health}, volume = {31}, number = {6}, pages = {111-112}, pmid = {36491500}, }
@article {pmid34455631, year = {2022}, author = {Endo, Y and Yoshida, H and Akazawa, Y and Yamazaki, K and Ota, Y and Sayo, T and Takahashi, Y}, title = {Antiwrinkle efficacy of 1-ethyl-β-N-acetylglucosaminide, an inducer of epidermal hyaluronan production.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {28}, number = {1}, pages = {58-65}, pmid = {34455631}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Epidermis ; Female ; Humans ; *Hyaluronic Acid ; Keratinocytes ; Skin ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hyaluronan (HA) has a unique hydration capacity that contributes to firmness and bounciness of the skin. Epidermal HA declines with skin aging, which may lead to clinical signs of aging including skin wrinkles and loss of hydration and elasticity. Recently, we developed a new cosmetic agent 1-ethyl-β-N-acetylglucosaminide (β-NAG2), which enhances HA production in cultured human keratinocytes. The aim of this study was to explore antiaging potential of β-NAG2 in reconstructed human epidermal models and human clinical trial.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: The amount of HA in &#x3b2;-NAG2-treated epidermal models by topical application was analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)-like assay. A randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled study was conducted in Japanese females (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;33) by topically treating each side of the face with a lotion formulated with &#x3b2;-NAG2 or placebo for 8&#xa0;weeks.<br><br>RESULTS: Topically applied &#x3b2;-NAG2 dose dependently increased HA production in epidermal models. Treatment with &#x3b2;-NAG2-formulated lotion significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity and reduced skin wrinkling in crow's foot areas when compared to the placebo formulation.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Topically applied &#x3b2;-NAG2 promoted epidermal HA production in vitro and showed antiwrinkle activity in vivo accompanying the improvement in skin hydration and elasticity. Our study provides a novel strategy for antiwrinkle care through &#x3b2;-NAG2-induced epidermal HA production.}, }
@article {pmid34451412, year = {2021}, author = {Stokes, HS and Berg, ML and Bennett, ATD}, title = {A Review of Chlamydial Infections in Wild Birds.}, journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {10}, number = {8}, pages = {}, pmid = {34451412}, issn = {2076-0817}, support = {N/A//School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University/ ; LP140100691 and DP180103494//Australian Research Council/ ; }, abstract = {The Chlamydia are a globally distributed genus of bacteria that can infect and cause disease in a range of hosts. Birds are the primary host for multiple chlamydial species. The most well-known of these is Chlamydia psittaci, a zoonotic bacterium that has been identified in a range of wild and domesticated birds. Wild birds are often proposed as a reservoir of Chlamydia psittaci and potentially other chlamydial species. The aim of this review is to present the current knowledge of chlamydial infections in wild avian populations. We focus on C. psittaci but also consider other Chlamydiaceae and Chlamydia-related bacteria that have been identified in wild birds. We summarise the diversity, host range, and clinical signs of infection in wild birds and consider the potential implications of these infections for zoonotic transmission and avian conservation. Chlamydial bacteria have been found in more than 70 species of wild birds, with the greatest chlamydial diversity identified in Europe. The Corvidae and Accipitridae families are emerging as significant chlamydial hosts, in addition to established wild hosts such as the Columbidae. Clarifying the effects of these bacteria on avian host fitness and the zoonotic potential of emerging Chlamydiales will help us to understand the implications of these infections for avian and human health.}, }
@article {pmid34440479, year = {2021}, author = {Kljakovic Gaspic, T and Pavicic Ivelja, M and Kumric, M and Matetic, A and Delic, N and Vrkic, I and Bozic, J}, title = {In-Hospital Mortality of COVID-19 Patients Treated with High-Flow Nasal Oxygen: Evaluation of Biomarkers and Development of the Novel Risk Score Model CROW-65.}, journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {11}, number = {8}, pages = {}, pmid = {34440479}, issn = {2075-1729}, abstract = {To replace mechanical ventilation (MV), which represents the cornerstone therapy in severe COVID-19 cases, high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) therapy has recently emerged as a less-invasive therapeutic possibility for those patients. Respecting the risk of MV delay as a result of HFNO use, we aimed to evaluate which parameters could determine the risk of in-hospital mortality in HFNO-treated COVID-19 patients. This single-center cohort study included 102 COVID-19-positive patients treated with HFNO. Standard therapeutic methods and up-to-date protocols were used. Patients who underwent a fatal event (41.2%) were significantly older, mostly male patients, and had higher comorbidity burdens measured by CCI. In a univariate analysis, older age, shorter HFNO duration, ventilator initiation, higher CCI and lower ROX index all emerged as significant predictors of adverse events (p < 0.05). Variables were dichotomized and included in the multivariate analysis to define their relative weights in the computed risk score model. Based on this, a risk score model for the prediction of in-hospital mortality in COVID-19 patients treated with HFNO consisting of four variables was defined: CCI > 4, ROX index ≤ 4.11, LDH-to-WBC ratio, age > 65 years (CROW-65). The main purpose of CROW-65 is to address whether HFNO should be initiated in the subgroup of patients with a high risk of in-hospital mortality.}, }
@article {pmid34432054, year = {2022}, author = {Johnsson, RD and Connelly, F and Vyssotski, AL and Roth, TC and Lesku, JA}, title = {Homeostatic regulation of NREM sleep, but not REM sleep, in Australian magpies.}, journal = {Sleep}, volume = {45}, number = {2}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1093/sleep/zsab218}, pmid = {34432054}, issn = {1550-9109}, mesh = {Australia ; *Electroencephalography ; Homeostasis/physiology ; Humans ; Sleep/physiology ; Sleep Deprivation ; Sleep Stages/physiology ; *Sleep, REM/physiology ; }, abstract = {STUDY OBJECTIVES: We explore non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep homeostasis in Australian magpies (Cracticus tibicen tyrannica). We predicted that magpies would recover lost sleep by spending more time in NREM and REM sleep, and by engaging in more intense NREM sleep as indicated by increased slow-wave activity (SWA).<br><br>METHODS: Continuous 72-h recordings of EEG, EMG, and tri-axial accelerometry, along with EEG spectral analyses, were performed on wild-caught Australian magpies housed in indoor aviaries. Australian magpies were subjected to two protocols of night-time sleep deprivation: full 12-h night (n = 8) and first 6-h half of the night (n = 5), which were preceded by a 36-h baseline recording and followed by a 24-h recovery period.<br><br>RESULTS: Australian magpies recovered from lost NREM sleep by sleeping more, with increased NREM sleep consolidation, and increased SWA during recovery sleep. Following 12-h of night-time sleep loss, magpies also showed reduced SWA the following night after napping more during the recovery day. Surprisingly, the magpies did not recover any lost REM sleep.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Only NREM sleep is homeostatically regulated in Australian magpies with the level of SWA reflecting prior sleep/wake history. The significance of emerging patterns on the apparent absence of REM sleep homeostasis, now observed in multiple species, remains unclear.}, }
@article {pmid34431914, year = {2021}, author = {Khan, RA and Ullah, Z and Zaman, IU and Khan, MS and Mahmood, S and Akhtar, N and Khan, MF and Yasmin, S and Saqlain, M and Rehman, AU and Aksar, N and Khan, SN and Hussain, SS}, title = {Population distribution and habitat analysis of Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) in Abbottabad, Pakistan.}, journal = {Brazilian journal of biology = Revista brasleira de biologia}, volume = {83}, number = {}, pages = {e247018}, doi = {10.1590/1519-6984.247018}, pmid = {34431914}, issn = {1678-4375}, mesh = {Animals ; *Ecosystem ; Pakistan ; Population Density ; }, abstract = {The Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) belongs to family corvidae, order Passeriformes which includes about 100 species. The current study was conducted to gather information about the Population distribution and habitat analysis of D. vagabunda at District Abbottabad, Pakistan. The data were collected on monthly basis both morning and evening times (2018-2019). "The ''Point count Method" was used for population estimation and ''Quadrates Method" for habitat analysis of study area. The result shows an average month-wise population density of D. vagabunda was maximum at Jhangra 0.14±0.039/ha, whereas minimum at Havelian 0.11±0.022/ha. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) among monthly population densities of D. vagabunda, however, a significant difference (p<0.05) was found between morning and evening times population of the specie. The present study revealed that importance value index (IVI) of plants species at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 59.6±12.6, 50.1±6.9, 53.4±6.3, 66.8±10 and 60.1±7.7. Likewise, the frequency of shrubs at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 33.3±4.2, 45±9.4, 46.7±8.2, 55.6±22.2 and 37.5±8.5. Similarly, the frequency of herbs at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 40.4±6.0, 37.5±5.6, 53.3±7.4, 48.5±5.2 and 46.9±7.4 respectively. Our results show the study area as suitable habitat for D. vagabunda.}, }
@article {pmid34427802, year = {2022}, author = {Veselý, P and Syrová, M and Voháňková, M and Havlíček, J and Nácarová, J and Fuchs, R}, title = {Cowards or clever guys: an alternative nest defence strategy employed by shrikes against magpies.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {25}, number = {2}, pages = {307-317}, pmid = {34427802}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {048/2019/P//Jiho&#x10d;esk&#xe1; Univerzita v &#x10c;esk&#xfd;ch Bud&#x11b;jovic&#xed;ch/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Male ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; *Predatory Behavior/physiology ; }, abstract = {Red-backed shrikes (Lanius collurio) show a substantial variability in their nest defence behaviour, which usually follows the rules of optimal parental behaviour, vigorously attacking egg and chick predators and only passively guarding against harmless animals. Nevertheless, shrikes hesitate to attack the Eurasian magpie (Pica pica), which specializes in plundering passerine nests. Our previous studies have suggested that this behaviour may be the result of an alternative defence strategy, relying on nest crypsis. To test this hypothesis, at the shrike nests, we presented a magpie dummy associated with playbacks drawing the predators' attention to the presence of the nest. We predicted that the presentation of a magpie dummy associated with shrike alarm calls moves the parents to action, causing them to chase the magpie away from the nest. We showed that the presence of a magpie dummy associated with shrike alarm calls elicits a significantly more active response in shrike parents compared to a magpie dummy associated with neutral song. Parents actively moved around the dummy and produced alarm calls; nevertheless, most of the tested pairs hesitated to attack the dummy. We may conclude that the low nest defence activity of shrike parents towards magpie dummy was partly the result of an alternative strategy, which may be cancelled out by alerting the predator to the location of the nest; nevertheless, shrikes seem to be afraid of the magpie and hesitate to attack it physically.}, }
@article {pmid34419195, year = {2021}, author = {Lane, R}, title = {Ollie Jay: managing heat, improving health.}, journal = {Lancet (London, England)}, volume = {398}, number = {10301}, pages = {655}, doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(21)01799-2}, pmid = {34419195}, issn = {1474-547X}, mesh = {*Hot Temperature ; Humans ; }, }
@article {pmid34416712, year = {2021}, author = {Tempero, M}, title = {Something to Crow About!.}, journal = {Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network : JNCCN}, volume = {19}, number = {8}, pages = {881-882}, doi = {10.6004/jnccn.2021.0039}, pmid = {34416712}, issn = {1540-1413}, }
@article {pmid34413575, year = {2022}, author = {Das, S and Sahu, TP and Janghel, RR and Sahu, BK}, title = {Effective forecasting of stock market price by using extreme learning machine optimized by PSO-based group oriented crow search algorithm.}, journal = {Neural computing &amp; applications}, volume = {34}, number = {1}, pages = {555-591}, pmid = {34413575}, issn = {0941-0643}, abstract = {Stock index price forecasting is the influential indicator for investors and financial investigators by which decision making capability to achieve maximum benefit with minimum risk can be improved. So, a robust engine with capability to administer useful information is desired to achieve the success. The forecasting effectiveness of stock market is improved in this paper by integrating a modified crow search algorithm (CSA) and extreme learning machine (ELM). The effectiveness of proposed modified CSA entitled as Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO)-based Group oriented CSA (PGCSA) to outperform other existing algorithms is observed by solving 12 benchmark problems. PGCSA algorithm is used to achieve relevant weights and biases of ELM to improve the effectiveness of conventional ELM. The impact of hybrid PGCSA ELM model to predict next day closing price of seven different stock indices is observed by using performance measures, technical indicators and hypothesis test (paired t-test). The seven stock indices are considered by incorporating data during COVID-19 outbreak. This model is tested by comparing with existing techniques proposed in published works. The simulation results provide that PGCSA ELM model can be considered as a suitable tool to predict next day closing price.}, }
@article {pmid34388763, year = {2021}, author = {Cheng, Z and Zhang, J and Dong, J and Ding, Y}, title = {Compact high-contrast silicon optical filter using all-passive and CROW Fano nanobeam resonators.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {46}, number = {16}, pages = {3873-3876}, doi = {10.1364/OL.433850}, pmid = {34388763}, issn = {1539-4794}, abstract = {We propose and experimentally demonstrate a high-order coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) nanobeam filter with semi-symmetrical Fano resonance enhancement. Thanks to the tight arrangement of multiple nanobeams and assistance of the partial transmission element, the designed filter has a high-contrast transmission and low insertion loss. Finally, the fabricated filter has a compact size of 20µm×10µm, a high extinction ratio as much as 70 dB, and an insertion loss as low as 1 dB. This filter shows a passive structure without thermal control configuration for calibration on each resonator. This compact filter can be a basic building block for various applications requiring high extinction ratio filtering, such as single-photon source filtering of integrated photon chips.}, }
@article {pmid34379642, year = {2021}, author = {Wang, H and Parris, JJ}, title = {Popular media as a double-edged sword: An entertainment narrative analysis of the controversial Netflix series 13 Reasons Why.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {16}, number = {8}, pages = {e0255610}, pmid = {34379642}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Bullying ; *Communication ; Drama ; Humans ; Motion Pictures/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Social Media/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Suicide/*psychology ; Television/*standards/trends ; *Suicide Prevention ; }, abstract = {13 Reasons Why is a Netflix original series adapted from Jay Asher's 2007 young adult novel with the same title. Season 1 premiered on March 31, 2017 and featured the sensitive issue of teen suicide along with bullying, substance use, depression, and sexual assault. Unlike the typical teen dramas on popular streaming platforms, this show was created not only for entertainment, but also to stimulate conversations about taboo topics that people often shy away from. However, it also caused significant controversy, especially criticism around the main character Hannah's suicide scene. More than three years into the initial controversy and at least two dozen scholarly publications later, this study is the first to examine the entertainment narrative content of 13 Reasons Why Season 1 to better understand how these health and social issues were portrayed in the show, what specific examples we could identify as potential behavioral modeling, and to what degree it complied with the 2017 WHO guidelines for media professionals. We used the framing theory and social cognitive theory in communication research and media studies as our guiding conceptual frameworks and a narrative analysis approach to investigate a total of 660 cut scenes in all 13 episodes. Our findings provided empirical evidence, along with contextual information and detailed examples, to demonstrate that a popular entertainment program like the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why serves as a double-edged sword. The production team's good will and due diligence are commendable. Yet, additional steps can be taken in the future to effectively promote professional resources and reduce viewers' risks, especially the most vulnerable groups.}, }
@article {pmid34377816, year = {2021}, author = {He, A and Guo, J and Peng, H and Huang, Z and Liu, J and Xu, X}, title = {The complete mitochondrial genome of Atypus karschi (Araneae, Atypidae) with phylogenetic consideration.}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part B, Resources}, volume = {6}, number = {9}, pages = {2523-2525}, pmid = {34377816}, issn = {2380-2359}, abstract = {The complete mitochondrial genome sequence of Atypus karschi has a circular genome of 14,149 bp, comprised of 13 protein-coding genes, two rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes, and a control region. The nucleotide composition is 35.82% of T, 35.13% of A, 17.19% of G, and 9.16% of C. Most genes are encoded on the heavy strand except seven tRNA genes (Leu, Phe, His, Pro, Leu, Ile, Gln), four protein-coding genes (nad5, nad4, nad4l, nad1), and 16S-rRNA on the light strand. Most protein-coding genes start with TTG, ATT or ATA initiation codon except cox1, cox1's start codon cannot be determined, and three types of inferred termination codons are TAA, TAG, and an incomplete stop codon. There are four intergenic spacers and 25 gene overlaps. The phylogenetic analysis shows that A. karschi has closer genetic relationship with Cyriopagopus schmidti (von Wirth, 1991) and Phyxioschema suthepium (Raven &amp; Schwendinger, 1898) with high bootstrap support.}, }
@article {pmid34374698, year = {2021}, author = {Vishwanath,  and Hemal, A and Nimesh, M and Singh, M and Agarwal, S}, title = {Neurocognitive Lag in School-Aged Children Living With HIV in India and Its Relevance.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {13}, number = {7}, pages = {e16110}, pmid = {34374698}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {Objective Objective assessment of neurocognitive lags in pediatric HIV patients and its correlation with various clinical, social and familial factors. Methods Ninety-eight school-aged children living with HIV (CLHIV) (age 7-18 years) attending regional pediatric HIV clinic were observed for neurocognitive lag using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices by the same trained instructor. Sociodemographic data, mode of transmission, clinical staging, CD4 count, highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) duration were recorded and analyzed in the well-performing group and under-performing group. Results 29.6% of children had definitive neurocognitive lag. The proportion of older children (11-18 years) in the under-performing group was significantly high (P = 0.007). The mean CD4 counts were low in the under-performing group (P = 0.001). Other socioeconomic factors could not be specifically correlated with neurocognitive lag in either of the groups. Conclusion CLHIV has a significant neurocognitive lag, which is accentuated in the upper age group. Findings point toward declining intellectual gains with increasing age in CLHIV.}, }
@article {pmid34372622, year = {2021}, author = {Escribano-Romero, E and Jiménez de Oya, N and Camacho, MC and Blázquez, AB and Martín-Acebes, MA and Risalde, MA and Muriel, L and Saiz, JC and Höfle, U}, title = {Previous Usutu Virus Exposure Partially Protects Magpies (Pica pica) against West Nile Virus Disease But Does Not Prevent Horizontal Transmission.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {13}, number = {7}, pages = {}, pmid = {34372622}, issn = {1999-4915}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Bird Diseases/virology ; Cross Protection/*immunology ; Disease Transmission, Infectious/*veterinary ; Flavivirus/*immunology ; Flavivirus Infections/immunology/*veterinary ; Passeriformes/*virology ; Spain ; West Nile Fever/prevention &amp; control/*transmission/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/*immunology ; }, abstract = {The mosquito-borne flaviviruses USUV and WNV are known to co-circulate in large parts of Europe. Both are a public health concern, and USUV has been the cause of epizootics in both wild and domestic birds, and neurological cases in humans in Europe. Here, we explore the susceptibility of magpies to experimental USUV infection, and how previous exposure to USUV would affect infection with WNV. None of the magpies exposed to USUV showed clinical signs, viremia, or detectable neutralizing antibodies. After challenge with a neurovirulent WNV strain, neither viremia, viral titer of WNV in vascular feathers, nor neutralizing antibody titers of previously USUV-exposed magpies differed significantly with respect to magpies that had not previously been exposed to USUV. However, 75% (6/8) of the USUV-exposed birds survived, while only 22.2% (2/9) of those not previously exposed to USUV survived. WNV antigen labeling by immunohistochemistry in tissues was less evident and more restricted in magpies exposed to USUV prior to challenge with WNV. Our data indicate that previous exposure to USUV partially protects magpies against a lethal challenge with WNV, while it does not prevent viremia and direct transmission, although the mechanism is unclear. These results are relevant for flavivirus ecology and contention.}, }
@article {pmid34358575, year = {2021}, author = {Tobari, Y and Masuzawa, A and Harada, N and Suzuki, K and Meddle, SL}, title = {Noradrenergic alpha-2A receptor activation suppresses courtship vocalization in male Japanese quail.}, journal = {Behavioural brain research}, volume = {414}, number = {}, pages = {113513}, doi = {10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113513}, pmid = {34358575}, issn = {1872-7549}, support = {BB/P013759/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/M027805/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adrenergic alpha-2 Receptor Agonists/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; Animals ; Clonidine/pharmacology ; Coturnix ; *Courtship ; Male ; Mesencephalon/drug effects/*metabolism ; Norepinephrine/*physiology ; Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha-2/*physiology ; Sexual Behavior, Animal/drug effects/*physiology ; Vocalization, Animal/drug effects/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Male Japanese quail produce high-frequency crow vocalizations to attract females during the breeding season. The nucleus of intercollicularis (ICo) is the midbrain vocal center in birds and electrical stimulation of the ICo produces calls that include crowing. Noradrenaline plays a significant role in sexual behavior but the contribution of noradrenaline in the control of courtship vocalizations in quail has not been well established. Using dose-dependent intracerebroventricular injection of clonidine, an α2-adrenergic receptor-specific agonist, crowing vocalization was immediately suppressed. At the same time as crow suppression by clonidine there was a reduction of immediate early gene, zenk mRNA, in the ICo; no zenk mRNA expression was detected in the dorsomedial division of the nucleus. Using histochemistry, we determined that the ICo receives noradrenergic innervation and expresses α2A-adrenergic receptor mRNA. Taken together, these data suggest that noradrenaline regulates courtship vocalization in quail, possibly via the α2A-adrenergic receptor expressed on ICo neurons.}, }
@article {pmid34341940, year = {2021}, author = {Chang, TY and Gauthier, I}, title = {Domain-specific and domain-general contributions to reading musical notation.}, journal = {Attention, perception &amp; psychophysics}, volume = {83}, number = {7}, pages = {2983-2994}, pmid = {34341940}, issn = {1943-393X}, mesh = {Cognition ; Humans ; *Music ; Reading ; Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Musical practice may benefit not only domain-specific abilities, such as pitch discrimination and music performance, but also domain-general abilities, like executive functioning and memory. Behavioral and neural changes in visual processing have been associated with music-reading experience. However, it is still unclear whether there is a domain-specific visual ability to process musical notation. This study investigates the specificity of the visual skills relevant to simple decisions about musical notation. Ninety-six participants varying in music-reading experience answered a short survey to quantify experience with musical notation and completed a test battery that assessed musical notation reading fluency and accuracy at the level of individual note or note sequence. To characterize how this ability may relate to domain-general abilities, we also estimated general intelligence (as measured with the Raven's Progressive Matrices) and general object-recognition ability (as measure by a recently proposed construct o). We obtained reliable measurements on our various tasks and found evidence for a domain-specific ability of the perception of musical notation. This music-reading ability and domain-general abilities were found to contribute to performance on specific tasks differently, depending on the level of experience reading music.}, }
@article {pmid34341857, year = {2022}, author = {Borba, A and Matayoshi, S and Rodrigues, M}, title = {Avoiding Complications on the Upper Face Treatment With Botulinum Toxin: A Practical Guide.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {46}, number = {1}, pages = {385-394}, pmid = {34341857}, issn = {1432-5241}, mesh = {*Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; Face ; Forehead ; Humans ; Rejuvenation ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Currently, botulinum toxin (BoNT) injections are the most commonly performed non-invasive procedure for rejuvenation on the upper face. The therapeutic use of botulinum toxin has generally been safe and well tolerated. Adverse effects are considered mild, transient, and self-limited. However, as with all other injectable procedures, this one is also susceptible to adverse events and complications. When the safety zones are respected, the chance of any of these complications is practically null. Thus, this review aims to describe the main complications of treatment with BoNT on the upper face and to present a practical guide based on current evidence on how to avoid them.<br><br>METHODS: The literature research considered published journal articles (clinical trials or scientific reviews). Studies were identified by searching electronic databases (MEDLINE and PubMed) and reference lists of respective articles.<br><br>RESULTS: The main complications secondary to BoNT injections on the upper face are: ptosis of eyelid or eyebrow, eyebrow asymmetry, diplopia, Lakeophthalmos, Palpebral ectropion, and prominence of the palpebral bags. To avoid such complications, it is necessary to have knowledge of the anatomy of this region and adequate and individualized planning based on the existing patterns of the frontalis muscle, glabella, and crow's feet. This review presents the specificities of each of these regions and practical suggestions to obtain satisfactory results, avoiding complications.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Particularly on the upper face treatment with BoNT offers predictable results, has few adverse effects, and is associated with high patient satisfaction. However, it is suggested that the commented parameters and safety areas be incorporated into daily practice so that the possibilities of complications are minimized as much as possible.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .}, }
@article {pmid34322856, year = {2022}, author = {Schelly, D}, title = {Life in the Time of COVID-19: a Case Study of Community Health.}, journal = {Journal of racial and ethnic health disparities}, volume = {9}, number = {5}, pages = {1648-1661}, pmid = {34322856}, issn = {2196-8837}, mesh = {Black or African American ; *COVID-19 ; Hispanic or Latino ; Humans ; Public Health ; White People ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: This report uses a present day global pandemic as a case study of health inequities that are best understood by considering the role of time and place.<br><br>METHOD: I provide a historical overview of Milwaukee, Wisconsin-one of the most segregated cities in the U.S.-to consider prior health disparities and social conditions. I then focus on COVID-19, tracking the monthly census tract distribution of cases for 6 months, including case and mortality data by race and class.<br><br>RESULTS: As expected, Black and Hispanic majority census tracts are the most affected by COVID-19, with some communities experiencing nearly 1 positive case per 10 residents. In previous years, Blacks and Hispanics provided approximately 27% and 3% of the shares of "natural" deaths, respectively; their shares of COVID-19 deaths in the first 6 months of the pandemic were approximately 35% and 13%. On the contrary, the share of natural deaths for whites was approximately 65% in previous years and dropped to 47% for COVID-19 deaths. The average ages of COVID-19 deaths were 72.5 for Blacks, 61.3 for Hispanics, and 79.9 for whites.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The disparities in COVID-19 outcomes in Milwaukee cannot be separated from historical forces, including race-based politics that intensified during the Great Migration of African Americans from the Jim Crow South. The paper concludes by returning to the turn of the 19th century with a historical snapshot of Jane Addams, who lived a short distance south, in a time with conspicuous parallels to the COVID-19 crisis.}, }
@article {pmid34315102, year = {2021}, author = {Sarker, S and Bowden, TR and Boyle, DB}, title = {Genomic characterisation of a novel avipoxvirus, magpiepox virus 2, from an Australian magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen terraereginae).}, journal = {Virology}, volume = {562}, number = {}, pages = {121-127}, doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2021.07.010}, pmid = {34315102}, issn = {1096-0341}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Avipoxvirus/classification/*genetics ; DNA, Viral/genetics ; Evolution, Molecular ; Genome, Viral/*genetics ; Genomics ; Multigene Family ; Open Reading Frames ; Passeriformes/*virology ; Phylogeny ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Avipoxviruses are large, double-stranded DNA viruses and are considered significant pathogens that may impact on the conservation of numerous bird species. The vast majority of avipoxviruses in wild birds remain uncharacterised and their genetic variability is unclear. Here, we fully sequenced a novel avipoxvirus, magpiepox virus 2 (MPPV2), which was isolated 62 years ago (in 1956) from an Australian black-backed magpie. The MPPV2 genome was 298,392 bp in length and contained 419 predicted open-reading frames (ORFs). While 43 ORFs were novel, a further 24 ORFs were absent compared with another magpiepox virus (MPPV) characterised in 2018. The MPPV2 genome contained an additional ten genes that were homologs to shearwaterpox virus 2 (SWPV2). Subsequent phylogenetic analyses showed that the novel MPPV2 was most closely related to other avipoxviruses isolated from passerine and shearwater bird species, and demonstrated a high degree of sequence similarity (95.0%) with MPPV.}, }
@article {pmid34311037, year = {2022}, author = {Berry, OO}, title = {Editorial: Race-Based Traumatic Stress and Vicarious Racism Within the Parent-Child Dyad: Opportunities for Intervention.}, journal = {Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry}, volume = {61}, number = {3}, pages = {362-363}, doi = {10.1016/j.jaac.2021.07.007}, pmid = {34311037}, issn = {1527-5418}, mesh = {*COVID-19 ; Humans ; Pandemics ; Parent-Child Relations ; *Racism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; United States ; }, abstract = {With every disaster, there are fault lines that deepen our understanding of what has happened and what needs to come. The events over the past 18 months including the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic as well as the murder of George Floyd and the associated protests throughout the United States brought those fault lines into stark relief by highlighting the history of systemic racism that has fostered marginalization and discrimination against Black Americans. These clouds of systemic racism and discrimination-encompassing 250 years of slavery, 100 years of Jim Crow, police brutality, redlining, and the resulting high rates of poverty and poorer health outcomes-have created systems in which Black Americans face unequal and unequitable stressful situations. The medical community is now beginning to take notice of this race-based traumatic stress, a term coined by Carter in 2007,[1] to describe how social determinants of health impacted by racial discrimination can "get under the skin" through the accumulative effects of ongoing exposure to toxic stress.[2].}, }
@article {pmid34306115, year = {2021}, author = {Khosravi, M and Seifi, S and Tazeh, Z}, title = {Molecular characterization and phylogenetic analysis of VIIl sub-genotype of avian orthoavulavirus 1 isolated from Eurasian magpie (Pica pica).}, journal = {Iranian journal of veterinary research}, volume = {22}, number = {2}, pages = {155-160}, pmid = {34306115}, issn = {1728-1997}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Newcastle disease (ND) has been categorized as a highly contagious viral disease, remaining as a constant threat to both wild birds and commercial chickens.<br><br>AIMS: In this study, we recovered and characterized the avian orthoavulavirus 1 (AOaV-1) strain, nominated as EM1, from the Eurasian magpie (Pica pica).<br><br>METHODS: The nucleotide and amino acid sequence of the fusion protein (F protein) of EM1 were determined and its phylogenetic relationship was investigated with well-characterized AOaV-1 genotypes, which originated from wild bird species and chickens around the world.<br><br>RESULTS: Phylogenetic analysis and deduced amino acid sequences of the F gene revealed that EM1 virus belonged to VIIl sub-genotype viruses with the characteristic multibasic amino acid sequences associated with the velogenic motif as [112]RRQKRF[117] at the cleavage site of its precursor fusion protein. EM1 shared a high level of similarity to the other virus sub-genotypes in nucleotide and amino acid sequences of F protein. Furthermore, the evolutionary difference between the studied virus and viruses belonging to the VIIl sub-genotype indicated that a close relatedness and the possibility of a common origin.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These results show that the virulent AOaV-1 of sub-genotype VIIl is circulating continuously in Iran, and is disseminating among wild and domestic bird species that can cause bidirectional spillover infection. Therefore, further epidemiological studies can be beneficial in the assessment of the evolution of AOaV-1 in its hosts and will help us to be well-equipped in facing the emergence of new sub-genotypes of this virus.}, }
@article {pmid34303277, year = {2021}, author = {Spaniol, MM and Magalhães, J and Mevorach, C and Shalev, L and Teixeira, MCTV and Lowenthal, R and de Paula, CS}, title = {Association between attention, nonverbal intelligence and school performance of school-age children with Autism Spectrum Disorder from a public health context in Brazil.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {116}, number = {}, pages = {104041}, doi = {10.1016/j.ridd.2021.104041}, pmid = {34303277}, issn = {1873-3379}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention ; *Autism Spectrum Disorder ; Brazil ; Child ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Public Health ; Schools ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by impairments in social interaction, restricted and repetitive behaviour, interests or activities. Difficulties in a broad spectrum of cognitive skills is often present, including attentional processes and nonverbal intelligence, which might be related to academic difficulties.<br><br>AIMS: In this study, the association between attentional skills and nonverbal intelligence to school performance of children with ASD was assessed.<br><br>METHODS AND PROCEDURES: 32 children/adolescents between 8-14 years old, who attended a treatment unit linked to the public health system of S&#xe3;o Paulo-Brazil participated in the study. The following instruments were utilized: Cancellation Attention Test; Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices; and School Performance Test.<br><br>OUTCOMES AND RESULTS: After correlation analysis, statistically significant associations were found between attention and nonverbal intelligence with school performance. Regression analysis showed that attention drives school performance irrespective of nonverbal intelligence.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Results evidence the link between attention and school performance in ASD, suggesting that attentional mechanisms may be a promising route to follow in the design of interventions for school improvement of children and adolescents with ASD.}, }
@article {pmid34302270, year = {2022}, author = {Li, F and Wan, S and Zhang, L and Li, B and He, Y and Shen, H and Liu, L}, title = {A Meta-Analysis of the Effect of Iodine Excess on the Intellectual Development of Children in Areas with High Iodine Levels in their Drinking Water.}, journal = {Biological trace element research}, volume = {200}, number = {4}, pages = {1580-1590}, pmid = {34302270}, issn = {1559-0720}, mesh = {Child ; China/epidemiology ; *Drinking Water/analysis ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; *Iodine/analysis ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this meta-analysis is to comprehensively investigate the effect of iodine excess on children's intellectual development in areas with high iodine levels in their drinking water. We systematically searched the electronic databases and identified 17 publications (16 in Chinese and 1 in English) on the effect of iodine excess on children's intelligence published between January 31, 1985, and January 31, 2020. This meta-analysis included 14,794 children from 28 studies. The results showed that compared with the control group, the intelligence level of children in the high iodine group reduced significantly by 1.64 points (WMD=-1.64; 95% CI (-3.225, -0.049), Z=2.02, P<0.05). Subgroup analyses were performed according to the water iodine concentration, water iodine concentration of the control group, the intelligence test method, and regions of China (i.e., north and south). We noted that when the water iodine concentration was <300μg/L, 301-600μg/L, 600.1-900μg/L, and >900μg/L, the intelligence level of the high iodine groups decreased by varying degrees, although not statistically significant (all P>0.05). The water iodine concentration of the control group was divided into two groups (<150 μg/L and <100 μg/L) and the heterogeneity analysis showed that the heterogeneity of the control group decreased significantly when the concentration of water iodine was <150 μg/L, I[2] = 67.3%, P<0.001, which indicated a potential source of heterogeneity. The analyses by test method showed that among the studies which used the China Joint Raven's test, the intelligence level of children in the high iodine group was 0.86 points lower than in the control group (P>0.05). Conversely, we observed that among the studies which used the China Binet intelligence test and the binaphthalene intelligence test of Tanzhida in Japan to evaluate children's intelligence level, the intelligence level of children in the high iodine groups was significantly lower (3.65 points and 8.0 points, respectively) compared with the control groups (P<0.05). The analysis of the regions of China demonstrated that whereas the reduction in children's intelligence level from excess iodine in the north of China was not statistically significant (WMD=-0.16, 95% CI (-2.18, 1.85), P>0.05), the association was statistically significant in the southern part of China (WMD=-1.86, 95% CI (-3.57, -0.09), P<0.05). This study found that high iodine concentration was statistically significantly associated with a decline in intelligence level in children. Comparatively, the intelligence level of children who were exposed to high iodine concentrations reduced significantly by 1.64 points. These findings have public health implications.}, }
@article {pmid34300242, year = {2021}, author = {Scarano, A and Inchingolo, F and Amuso, D and Scogna, G and Amore, R and Lorusso, F}, title = {Static Crow's Feet Treated with Voltaic Arc Dermabrasion (Atmospheric Plasma): Post-Operative Pain Assessment by Thermal Infrared Imaging.}, journal = {Journal of clinical medicine}, volume = {10}, number = {14}, pages = {}, pmid = {34300242}, issn = {2077-0383}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In the literature, several strategies have been described for the treatment of unaesthetic marks on the face resulting from the aging processes. The atmospheric plasma procedure is a non-invasive, inexpensive technique proposed for the rejuvenation of facial tissues. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of voltaic arc dermabrasion (VAD) for the treatment of static crow's feet of the periorbital area.<br><br>METHODS: The crow's feet of 135 patients (127 female and 8 male) were treated using the VAD technique. The perioperative skin temperature measurement was assessed using an Infrared Temperature sensor. The pain was measured using the Visual Analogic Score (VAS) at 1 week, 1 month and 1 year. The patient's and surgeon's satisfaction were assessed using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) at 1 month and 1 year from the procedure. The severity of the crow's feet was rated using the Crow's Feet Grading Scale (CFGS).<br><br>RESULTS: A complete epidermal healing of all the subjects treated was evident at 7 days. The atmospheric plasma technique showed an efficient treatment for the removal of the crow's feet, with a good aesthetic outcome, high surgeon and patient satisfaction, without clinical complications.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The atmospheric plasma technique can be a useful modality in the cosmetic as well as therapeutic treatment of crow's feet.}, }
@article {pmid34292115, year = {2022}, author = {Ellis, RJ and Rönnberg, J}, title = {Temporal fine structure: associations with cognition and speech-in-noise recognition in adults with normal hearing or hearing impairment.}, journal = {International journal of audiology}, volume = {61}, number = {9}, pages = {778-786}, doi = {10.1080/14992027.2021.1948119}, pmid = {34292115}, issn = {1708-8186}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition ; Hearing ; *Hearing Loss ; Humans ; Speech ; *Speech Perception ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To investigate associations between sensitivity to temporal fine structure (TFS) and performance in cognitive and speech-in-noise recognition tests.<br><br>DESIGN: A binaural test of TFS sensitivity (the TFS-LF) was used. Measures of cognition included the reading span, Raven's, and text-reception threshold tests. Measures of speech recognition included the Hearing in noise (HINT) and the Hagerman matrix sentence tests in three signal processing conditions.<br><br>STUDY SAMPLE: Analyses are based on the performance of 324/317 adults with and without hearing impairment.<br><br>RESULTS: Sensitivity to TFS was significantly correlated with both the reading span test and the recognition of speech-in-noise processed using noise reduction, the latter only when limited to participants with hearing impairment. Neither association was significant when the effects of age were partialled out.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The findings are consistent with previous research in finding no evidence of a link between sensitivity to TFS and working memory once the effects of age had been partialled out. The results provide some evidence of an influence of signal processing strategy on the association between TFS sensitivity and speech-in-noise recognition. However, further research is necessary to assess the generalisability of the findings before any claims can be made regarding any clinical implications of these findings.}, }
@article {pmid34287804, year = {2022}, author = {Roberts, WA}, title = {An operant analog of food caching in the pigeon (Columba livia).}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {50}, number = {1}, pages = {82-88}, pmid = {34287804}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Animals ; Columbidae/*physiology ; *Feeding Behavior ; Reinforcement Schedule ; *Reinforcement, Psychology ; }, abstract = {Although pigeons do not naturally cache and recover food items as found in members of the corvid and parid families, an operant analog of food caching and recovery in pigeons was studied in four experiments. Pigeons were trained to peck a caching key that added a fixed increment of time to the final duration of reinforcement obtained by pecking a payoff key. The same key served as the caching and payoff keys in Experiment 1, but separate caching and payoff keys were used in Experiments 2-4. In Experiments 2-3, each peck on a left red caching key added 0.5 s of reinforcement earned by pecking a right white payoff key. In Experiment 4, red or green caching keys appeared on different trials, with 0.5 s of reinforcement earned for pecking the red key and 1.0 s of reinforcement earned for pecking the green key. Pigeons showed an increased number of pecks on the caching key over ten sessions in Experiments 1-3 and more pecks on the green caching key than on the red caching key in Experiment 4.}, }
@article {pmid34268296, year = {2021}, author = {Meilak, EA and Gostling, NJ and Palmer, C and Heller, MO}, title = {On the 3D Nature of the Magpie (Aves: Pica pica) Functional Hindlimb Anatomy During the Take-Off Jump.}, journal = {Frontiers in bioengineering and biotechnology}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {676894}, pmid = {34268296}, issn = {2296-4185}, abstract = {Take-off is a critical phase of flight, and many birds jump to take to the air. Although the actuation of the hindlimb in terrestrial birds is not limited to the sagittal plane, and considerable non-sagittal plane motion has been observed during take-off jumps, how the spatial arrangement of hindlimb muscles in flying birds facilitates such jumps has received little attention. This study aims to ascertain the 3D hip muscle function in the magpie (Pica pica), a bird known to jump to take-off. A musculoskeletal model of the magpie hindlimb was developed using μCT scans (isotropic resolution of 18.2 μm) to derive bone surfaces, while the 3D muscle path definition was further informed by the literature. Function was robustly characterized by determining the 3D moment-generating capacity of 14 hip muscles over the functional joint range of motion during a take-off leap considering variations across the attachment areas and uncertainty in dynamic muscle geometry. Ratios of peak flexion-extension (FE) to internal-external rotation (IER) and abduction-adduction (ABD) moment-generating capacity were indicators of muscle function. Analyses of 972 variations of the 3D muscle paths showed that 11 of 14 muscles can act as either flexor or extensor, while all 14 muscles demonstrated the capacity to act as internal or external rotators of the hip with the mean ratios of peak FE to IER and ABD moment-generating capacity were 0.89 and 0.31, respectively. Moment-generating capacity in IER approaching levels in the FE moment-generating capacity determined here underline that the avian hip muscle function is not limited to the sagittal plane. Together with previous findings on the 3D nature of hindlimb kinematics, our results suggest that musculoskeletal models to develop a more detailed understanding of how birds orchestrate the use of muscles during a take-off jump cannot be restricted to the sagittal plane.}, }
@article {pmid34263015, year = {2021}, author = {Honja Kabero, T and Bosha, T and Feleke, FW and Haile Weldegebreal, D and Stoecker, B}, title = {Nutritional Status and Its Association with Cognitive Function among School Aged Children at Soddo Town and Soddo Zuriya District, Southern Ethiopia: Institution Based Comparative Study.}, journal = {Global pediatric health}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {2333794X211028198}, pmid = {34263015}, issn = {2333-794X}, abstract = {About 1 billion stunted school-aged children are growing up with impaired mental development which can lead to low cognitive performance, reduced school achievement, and low productivity. But there is scarce evidence on cognitive function, school performance and their associated factors among school aged children. The main aim of this study was to assess cognitive function, school performance and determine their association with nutritional status among school children aged 7 to 10 years at Soddo Town and Soddo Zuriya Woreda, Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia. Institutional comparative cross-sectional study was conducted on a total sample of 178 primary school children. The Raven's Color Progressive Matrices (RCPM) and selected tests from Kaufman assessment battery for children second edition were used. Mid-year average students' examination result was also used. Data were analyzed by using SPSS version 25, WHO Anthro plus, and independent sample t-test. Bivariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were also used. Mean (±SD) cognitive test scores of urban study participants was 18.7 ± 3.4 for RCPM which was higher (P < .001) as compared to rural (16.5 ± 3.3). The urban mean cognitive test scores was also higher for both pattern reasoning and visual processing with (P < .001) as compared to rural counterparts. School performance was higher (P < .001) for urban. Maternal education (P < .002) and wealth index (P < .006) were positively predicted while stunting (P < .001) negatively predicted cognitive function test scores and school performance. Cognitive function and school performance of study participants were associated with their nutritional status and rural participants had significantly lower mean scores as compared to urban counterparts. Further study should be done to community level.}, }
@article {pmid34260789, year = {2022}, author = {Sen, K and Berglund, T and Patel, N and Chhabra, N and Ricci, DM and Dutta, S and Mukhopadhyay, AK}, title = {Genotypic analyses and antimicrobial resistance profiles of Campylobacter jejuni from crows (Corvidae) of United States and India reflect their respective local antibiotic burdens.}, journal = {Journal of applied microbiology}, volume = {132}, number = {1}, pages = {696-706}, doi = {10.1111/jam.15220}, pmid = {34260789}, issn = {1365-2672}, support = {//Fulbright Global Fellowship to Keya Sen/ ; //King County WaterWorks Program, Washington/ ; //University of Washington Bothell Facilities Services , Washington/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Campylobacter ; *Campylobacter Infections/veterinary ; *Campylobacter coli ; *Campylobacter jejuni/genetics ; *Crows ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics ; Humans ; India ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; United States ; }, abstract = {AIM: The study examined the hypothesis that crow-borne Campylobacter can function as environmental reservoirs and indicators of antibiotic resistance (AR) determinants circulating in a human population.<br><br>METHODS AND RESULTS: Two species of crows from Washington (WA), United States, and Kolkata, India, respectively, were examined for their ability to carry antibiotic resistant Campylobacter. Campylobacter jejuni was the only species isolated by selective agar plating from crow faecal samples. Disk diffusion method used to compare the AR profile of the isolates showed tetracycline (TET) resistance to be the most prevalent (27%) among WA isolates, followed by ciprofloxacin (CIP; 24%). Among Kolkata isolates, nalidixic acid resistance was most common (36%), followed by CIP (27%). The AR profile demonstrated by crow isolates of WA reflects those reported by the US National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System for human isolates (2007-2011), where resistance to TET was most prevalent (&#x2248;45%), followed by quinolones (&#x2248;24%). The Kolkata crow isolates reflected the AR profile of human clinical isolates from India, where 97% resistance was shown to quinolones, followed by TET (18%). Multilocus sequence typing of 37 isolates, including 11 water isolates from the crow roost area, showed 24 different sequence types (STs). Seventeen of these were previously found in wild birds, 2 in human diarrhoea, 4 in poultry and 8 in environmental water. One isolate was found in both water and faeces, though from different sites within WA.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that crows most likely acquire the AR from anthropogenic sources. Although they are colonized by specific STs, rarely isolated from humans, they can facilitate the spread of AR.<br><br>By studying two areas in different continents, this research demonstrates that Campylobacter borne by crows can function as environmental reservoirs and indicators of AR determinants that circulate in a human population. This information will be of importance to scientists from the medical and poultry industries.}, }
@article {pmid34256579, year = {2021}, author = {Breen, AJ}, title = {Animal culture research should include avian nest construction.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {17}, number = {7}, pages = {20210327}, pmid = {34256579}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Finches ; *Nesting Behavior ; }, abstract = {Material culture-that is, group-shared and socially learned object-related behaviour(s)-is a widespread and diverse phenomenon in humans. For decades, researchers have sought to confirm the existence of material culture in non-human animals; however, the main study systems of interest-namely, tool making and/or using non-human primates and corvids-cannot provide such confirmatory evidence: because long-standing ethical and logistical constraints handicap the collection of necessary experimental data. Synthesizing evidence across decades and disciplines, here, I present a novel framework for (mechanistic, developmental, behavioural, and comparative) study on animal material culture: avian nest construction.}, }
@article {pmid34253607, year = {2021}, author = {Steele, MP and Neaves, LE and Klump, BC and St Clair, JJH and Fernandes, JRSM and Hequet, V and Shaw, P and Hollingsworth, PM and Rutz, C}, title = {DNA barcoding identifies cryptic animal tool materials.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {118}, number = {29}, pages = {}, pmid = {34253607}, issn = {1091-6490}, support = {BB/G023913/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/G023913/2/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; RPG-2015-273/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Crows ; *DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic ; DNA, Plant/genetics ; Nesting Behavior/physiology ; Phylogeny ; Plant Structures/anatomy &amp; histology/classification/genetics ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Some animals fashion tools or constructions out of plant materials to aid foraging, reproduction, self-maintenance, or protection. Their choice of raw materials can affect the structure and properties of the resulting artifacts, with considerable fitness consequences. Documenting animals' material preferences is challenging, however, as manufacture behavior is often difficult to observe directly, and materials may be processed so heavily that they lack identifying features. Here, we use DNA barcoding to identify, from just a few recovered tool specimens, the plant species New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides) use for crafting elaborate hooked stick tools in one of our long-term study populations. The method succeeded where extensive fieldwork using an array of conventional approaches-including targeted observations, camera traps, radio-tracking, bird-mounted video cameras, and behavioral experiments with wild and temporarily captive subjects-had failed. We believe that DNA barcoding will prove useful for investigating many other tool and construction behaviors, helping to unlock significant research potential across a wide range of study systems.}, }
@article {pmid34243677, year = {2022}, author = {Jalaludin, B and Garden, FL and Chrzanowska, A and Haryanto, B and Cowie, CT and Lestari, F and Morgan, G and Mazumdar, S and Metcalf, K and Marks, GB}, title = {Associations Between Ambient Particulate Air Pollution and Cognitive Function in Indonesian Children Living in Forest Fire-Prone Provinces.}, journal = {Asia-Pacific journal of public health}, volume = {34}, number = {1}, pages = {96-105}, doi = {10.1177/10105395211031735}, pmid = {34243677}, issn = {1941-2479}, mesh = {*Air Pollutants/toxicity ; *Air Pollution/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Child ; Cognition ; Environmental Exposure/statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Fires ; Humans ; Indonesia/epidemiology ; Particulate Matter/analysis/toxicity ; *Wildfires ; }, abstract = {Smoke from forest fires can reach hazardous levels for extended periods of time. We aimed to determine if there is an association between particulate matter ≤2.5 µm in aerodynamic diameter (PM2.5) and living in a forest fire-prone province and cognitive function. We used data from the Indonesian Family and Life Survey. Cognitive function was assessed by the Ravens Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM). We used regression models to estimate associations between PM2.5 and living in a forest fire-prone province and cognitive function. In multivariable models, we found very small positive relationships between PM2.5 levels and RCPM scores (PM2.5 level at year of survey: β = 0.1%; 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.01, 0.19%]). There were no differences in RCPM scores for children living in forest fire-prone provinces compared with children living in non-forest fire-prone provinces (mean difference = -1.16%, 95% CI [-2.53, 0.21]). RCPM scores were lower for children who had lived in a forest fire-prone province all their lives compared with children who lived in a non-forest fire-prone province all their life (β = -1.50%; 95% CI [-2.94, -0.07]). Living in a forest fire-prone province for a prolonged period of time negatively affected cognitive scores after adjusting for individual factors.}, }
@article {pmid34242287, year = {2021}, author = {Nahid, MI and Fossøy, F and Stokke, BG and Abernathy, V and Begum, S and Langmore, NE and Røskaft, E and Ranke, PS}, title = {No evidence of host-specific egg mimicry in Asian koels.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {16}, number = {7}, pages = {e0253985}, pmid = {34242287}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Color ; Egg Shell/physiology ; Host-Parasite Interactions/*physiology ; Linear Models ; Nesting Behavior/physiology ; Ovum/*physiology ; Parasites/physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Avian brood parasitism is costly for the host, in many cases leading to the evolution of defenses like discrimination of parasitic eggs. The parasite, in turn, may evolve mimetic eggs as a counter-adaptation to host egg rejection. Some generalist parasites have evolved host-specific races (gentes) that may mimic the eggs of their main hosts, while others have evolved 'jack-of-all-trades' egg phenotypes that mimic key features of the eggs of several different host species. The Asian koel (Eudynamys scolopaceus) is a widely distributed generalist brood parasite that exploits a wide range of host species. Based on human vision, previous studies have described Asian koel eggs as resembling those of its main host, the house crow (Corvus splendens). Using measurements of egg length and breadth, digital image analysis, reflectance spectrophotometry and avian visual modelling, we examined Asian koel egg variation and potential mimicry in egg size and shape, and eggshell pattern and color in three sympatrically occurring host species in Bangladesh: the common myna (Acridotheres tristis), house crow, and long-tailed shrike (Lanius schach). We found some differences among Asian koel eggs laid in different host nests: a) Asian koel eggs in long-tailed shrike nests were larger than those laid in common myna and house crow nests, and b) Asian koel eggs in house crow nests were less elongated than those in common myna nests. However, these changes in Asian koel egg volume and shape were in the opposite direction with respect to their corresponding host egg characteristics. Thus, our study found no evidence for Asian koel host-specific egg mimicry in three sympatrically occurring host species.}, }
@article {pmid34240581, year = {2021}, author = {Nourani, L and Baghkheirati, AA and Zargar, M and Karimi, V and Djadid, ND}, title = {Haemoproteosis and avian malaria in Columbidae and Corvidae from Iran.}, journal = {Veterinary medicine and science}, volume = {7}, number = {5}, pages = {2043-2050}, pmid = {34240581}, issn = {2053-1095}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bird Diseases/epidemiology ; Columbidae ; Iran/epidemiology ; *Malaria, Avian/epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; *Protozoan Infections, Animal/epidemiology/parasitology ; }, abstract = {Avian malaria (Plasmodium) and related genera (Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon) are diverse and widespread parasites. Despite the extent of knowledge on avian haemosporidian parasites, information about domestic and wild bird's blood parasites is overall insufficient in Iran. Prevalence of the haemosporidian parasites' and phylogenetic relationship of lineages are studied by using molecular and morphological results of 152 examined hosts belonging to 17 species. Molecular analysis for haemosporidian detections demonstrated overall prevalence 22.36%. Inspected hosts mostly belonging to Common Pigeons (Columba livia) parasitized by Haemoproteus spp., and Hooded Crows (Corvus cornix) and Carrion Crow (C. corone) were identified as hosting Plasmodium spp. Detected lineages COLIV03, COQUI05, LINN01, ROFI04 and SGS01 are identified as new reports from Iran. We detected no evidence of Leucocytozoon lineages, while the high prevalence of H. columbae was found in Common Pigeons. Such investigation on avian blood parasites contributes to providing new information on the prevalence, epidemiology and geographical distribution of haemosporidian parasites circulating in domestic, pets and wild birds.}, }
@article {pmid34234956, year = {2021}, author = {Hooper, R and Meekins, E and McIvor, GE and Thornton, A}, title = {Wild jackdaws respond to their partner's distress, but not with consolation.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {8}, number = {6}, pages = {210253}, pmid = {34234956}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {Individuals are expected to manage their social relationships to maximize fitness returns. For example, reports of some mammals and birds offering unsolicited affiliation to distressed social partners (commonly termed 'consolation') are argued to illustrate convergent evolution of prosocial traits across divergent taxa. However, most studies cannot discriminate between consolation and alternative explanations such as self-soothing. Crucially, no study that controls for key confounds has examined consolation in the wild, where individuals face more complex and dangerous environments than in captivity. Controlling for common confounds, we find that male jackdaws (Corvus monedula) respond to their mate's stress-states, but not with consolation. Instead, they tended to decrease affiliation and partner visit rate in both experimental and natural contexts. This is striking because jackdaws have long-term monogamous relationships with highly interdependent fitness outcomes, which is precisely where theory predicts consolation should occur. Our findings challenge common conceptions about where consolation should evolve, and chime with concerns that current theory may be influenced by anthropomorphic expectations of how social relationships should be managed. To further our understanding of the evolution of such traits, we highlight the need for our current predictive frameworks to incorporate the behavioural trade-offs inherent to life in the wild.}, }
@article {pmid34224576, year = {2021}, author = {Camargo, CP and Xia, J and Costa, CS and Gemperli, R and Tatini, MD and Bulsara, MK and Riera, R}, title = {Botulinum toxin type A for facial wrinkles.}, journal = {The Cochrane database of systematic reviews}, volume = {7}, number = {7}, pages = {CD011301}, pmid = {34224576}, issn = {1469-493X}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Bias ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Dermal Fillers/therapeutic use ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Placebos/therapeutic use ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin type A (BontA) is the most frequent treatment for facial wrinkles, but its effectiveness and safety have not previously been assessed in a Cochrane Review.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of all commercially available botulinum toxin type A products for the treatment of any type of facial wrinkles.<br><br>SEARCH METHODS: We searched the following databases up to May 2020: the Cochrane Skin Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and LILACS. We also searched five trials registers, and checked the reference lists of included studies for further references to relevant randomised controlled trials (RCTs).<br><br>SELECTION CRITERIA: We included RCTs with over&#xa0;50 participants,&#xa0;comparing BontA versus placebo, other types of BontA, or fillers (hyaluronic acid),&#xa0;for treating facial wrinkles in adults.<br><br>DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We used standard methodological procedures expected by&#xa0;Cochrane. Primary outcomes were participant assessment of success and major adverse events (AEs)&#xa0;(eyelid ptosis, eyelid sensory disorder, strabismus). Secondary outcomes included physician assessment of success; proportion of participants with at least one AE&#xa0;and duration of treatment effect.&#xa0;We used GRADE to assess the certainty of the evidence for each outcome.<br><br>MAIN RESULTS: We included 65&#xa0;RCTs, involving 14,919&#xa0;randomised participants. Most participants were female, aged 18 to 65&#xa0;years. All participants were&#xa0;outpatients (private office or day clinic). Study duration was between one week and&#xa0;one year. No studies were assessed as low risk of bias in all domains; the overall risk of bias was unclear for most studies. The most common comparator was placebo (36&#xa0;studies). An active control was used in&#xa0;19&#xa0;studies. There were&#xa0;eight&#xa0;dose-ranging studies of onabotulinumtoxinA, and a small number of studies compared against fillers. Treatment was given in one cycle (54&#xa0;studies), two cycles (three studies), or three or more cycles (eight studies). The treated regions were glabella (43&#xa0;studies), crow's feet (seven studies), forehead (two studies), perioral (two studies), full face (one&#xa0;study), or more than two regions (nine&#xa0;studies). Most studies analysed moderate to severe wrinkles; mean duration of treatment was 20 weeks. The following results summarise the main comparisons, based on studies of one treatment cycle for the glabella. AEs were collected over the duration of these studies (over four to 24 weeks). Compared to placebo, onabotulinumtoxinA-20 U probably has a higher success rate when assessed by participants (risk ratio (RR) 19.45, 95% confidence interval (CI) 8.60 to 43.99; 575&#xa0;participants; 4 studies; moderate-certainty evidence) or physicians (RR 17.10, 95% CI 10.07 to 29.05; 1339 participants; 7 studies; moderate-certainty evidence) at week four. Major AEs are probably higher with onabotulinumtoxinA-20 U (Peto OR 3.62, 95% CI 1.50 to 8.74; 1390 participants; 8 studies; moderate-certainty evidence), but there may be no difference in any AEs (RR 1.14, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.45; 1388&#xa0;participants; 8 studies; low-certainty evidence). Compared to placebo, abobotulinumtoxinA-50 U has a higher participant-assessed success rate at week four (RR 21.22, 95% CI 7.40 to 60.56; 915 participants; 6 studies; high-certainty evidence); and probably has a higher physician-assessed success rate (RR 14.93, 95% CI 8.09 to 27.55; 1059 participants; 7 studies; moderate-certainty evidence). There are probably more major AEs with abobotulinumtoxinA-50 U (Peto OR 3.36, 95% CI 0.88 to 12.87; 1294 participants; 7 studies; moderate-certainty evidence). Any&#xa0;AE may&#xa0;be more common&#xa0;with abobotulinumtoxinA-50 U&#xa0;(RR 1.25, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.49; 1471 participants; 8 studies; low-certainty evidence). Compared to placebo, incobotulinumtoxinA-20 U probably has a higher participant-assessed success rate at week four (RR 66.57, 95% CI 13.50 to 328.28; 547 participants; 2 studies; moderate-certainty evidence), and physician-assessed success rate (RR 134.62, 95% CI 19.05 to 951.45; 547 participants; 2&#xa0;studies; moderate-certainty evidence). Major AEs were not observed (547 participants; 2&#xa0;studies; moderate-certainty evidence). There may be no difference between groups in any&#xa0;AEs (RR 1.17, 95% CI 0.90 to 1.53; 547 participants; 2 studies; low-certainty evidence). AbobotulinumtoxinA-50 U is no different to onabotulinumtoxinA-20 U in participant-assessed success rate (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.08, 388 participants, 1 study, high-certainty evidence) and physician-assessed success rate (RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.06; 388 participants; 1 study; high-certainty evidence) at week four. Major AEs are probably more likely in the abobotulinumtoxinA-50 U group than the onabotulinumtoxinA-20 U group (Peto OR 2.65, 95% CI 0.77 to 9.09; 433 participants; 1&#xa0;study; moderate-certainty evidence). There is probably no difference in any AE (RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.54; 492 participants; 2 studies; moderate-certainty evidence). IncobotulinumtoxinA-24 U&#xa0;may be&#xa0;no different to onabotulinumtoxinA-24 U in physician-assessed success rate at week four (RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.96 to 1.05; 381 participants; 1 study; low-certainty evidence) (participant assessment was not measured). One participant reported ptosis with onabotulinumtoxinA, but&#xa0;we are uncertain of the risk of AEs (Peto OR 0.02, 95% CI 0.00 to 1.77; 381 participants; 1&#xa0;study; very low-certainty evidence). Compared to placebo, daxibotulinumtoxinA-40 U probably has a higher participant-assessed success rate (RR 21.10, 95% CI 11.31 to 39.34; 683 participants; 2 studies; moderate-certainty evidence) and physician-assessed success rate (RR 23.40, 95% CI 12.56 to 43.61; 683 participants; 2 studies; moderate-certainty evidence) at week four. Major AEs were not observed (716 participants; 2 studies; moderate-certainty evidence). There may be an increase in any AE with daxibotulinumtoxinA compared to placebo&#xa0;(RR 2.23, 95% CI 1.46 to 3.40; 716 participants; 2&#xa0;studies; moderate-certainty evidence). Major AEs reported were mainly ptosis; BontA&#xa0;is also known to carry a risk of strabismus or eyelid sensory disorders.<br><br>AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: BontA treatment reduces wrinkles within four weeks of treatment, but probably increases risk of ptosis. We found several heterogeneous studies (different types or doses of&#xa0;BontA, number of cycles, and different facial regions) hindering&#xa0;meta-analyses. The certainty of the evidence for effectiveness outcomes was high, low or moderate; for AEs, very low to moderate. Future RCTs should compare the most&#xa0;common BontA (onabotulinumtoxinA, abobotulinumtoxinA, incobotulinumtoxinA, daxibotulinumtoxinA, prabotulinumtoxinA) and evaluate long-term outcomes. There is a lack of evidence about the&#xa0;effects of multiple cycles of BontA, frequency of major AEs, duration of effect, efficacy of recently-approved BontA and comparisons with other treatments.}, }
@article {pmid34224139, year = {2022}, author = {Blake, JA and Pelecanos, A and Najman, JM and Callaway, L and Scott, JG}, title = {The association between birth by caesarean section at term and offspring cognitive and academic performance: A birth cohort study.}, journal = {The Australian &amp; New Zealand journal of obstetrics &amp; gynaecology}, volume = {62}, number = {2}, pages = {226-233}, doi = {10.1111/ajo.13403}, pmid = {34224139}, issn = {1479-828X}, support = {//National Health and Medical Research Council/ ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Birth Cohort ; *Cesarean Section/adverse effects ; Cognition ; Cohort Studies ; Delivery, Obstetric ; Female ; Humans ; Pregnancy ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Caesarean section (CS) is associated with an increased risk of adverse health outcomes for both mothers and offspring. The evidence for an association between CS and reduced offspring cognitive and academic performance has been inconsistent, with considerable limitations.<br><br>AIM: The aim of this study is to compare cognitive and academic performance in childhood and early adulthood in offspring delivered by CS with those delivered vaginally at term.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data on 4327 mothers and offspring from a longitudinal birth cohort study were analysed. Offspring cognitive performance was measured by the Picture Peabody Vocabulary Test-Revised (PPVT-R) at ages five and 21 and the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices at age 14. Academic achievement was assessed using the Wide Range Achievement Test at age 14.<br><br>RESULTS: After adjustment for confounding factors, there was no statistically significant association between cognitive performance and offspring birth mode at age five (P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.11). The adjusted difference of mean scores at five years on the PPVT-R for elective CS birth compared to those born by vaginal delivery was -2.2 (95% confidence interval (CI) -4.3 to -0.2), whereas for emergency CS it was 0.0 (95% CI -2.0 to 2.0). There were no differences in cognitive or academic performance at ages 14 and 21.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Birth mode was not significantly associated with offspring cognitive or academic performance. Our study does not support concerns that CS is associated with a reduction in cognitive performance.}, }
@article {pmid34222609, year = {2021}, author = {Varghese, JS and Patel, SA and Martorell, R and Ramirez-Zea, M and Stein, AD}, title = {Relative and absolute wealth mobility since birth in relation to health and human capital in middle adulthood: An analysis of a Guatemalan birth cohort.}, journal = {SSM - population health}, volume = {15}, number = {}, pages = {100852}, pmid = {34222609}, issn = {2352-8273}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Wealth mobility, as both relative (positional) and absolute (material) wealth acquisition, may counteract negative consequences of early life adversities on adult health.<br><br>METHODS: We use longitudinal data (1967-2018) from the INCAP birth cohort, Guatemala (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;1386). Using wealth as a measure of socio-economic position, we assess the association of life course relative mobility using latent class analysis and absolute material gains using conditional wealth measures. We estimate associations of wealth mobility with indicators of human capital, specifically height, weight status (BMI in kg/m[2]), psychological distress (WHO SRQ-20 score) and fluid intelligence (Ravens Progressive Matrices score; RPM) in middle adulthood.<br><br>RESULTS: We identified four latent classes of relative mobility - Stable Low (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;498), Stable High (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;223), Downwardly Mobile (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;201) and Upwardly Mobile (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;464). Attained schooling (years) was positively associated with membership in Upwardly Mobile (odds ratio; 1.50, 95%CI: 1.31, 1.71) vs Stable Low, and inversely with membership in Downwardly Mobile (0.65, 95%CI: 0.54, 0.79) vs Stable High. Being Upwardly Mobile (vs Stable Low) was positively associated with height (1.88&#xa0;cm, 95%CI: 1.04, 2.72), relative weight (1.32&#xa0;kg/m[2], 95%CI: 0.57, 2.07), lower psychological distress (-0.82 units, 95%CI: 1.34, -0.29) and fluid intelligence (0.94 units, 95%CI: 0.28, 1.59). Being Downwardly Mobile (vs Stable High) was associated with lower fluid intelligence (-2.69 units, 95%CI: 3.69, -1.68), and higher psychological distress (1.15 units, 95%CI: 0.34, 1.95). Absolute wealth gains (z-scores) from early to middle adulthood were positively associated with relative weight (0.62&#xa0;kg/m[2], 95%CI: 0.28, 0.96), lower psychological distress (-0.37 units, 95%CI: 0.60, -0.14) and fluid intelligence (0.50 units, 95%CI: 0.21, 0.79).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Higher attained schooling provided a pathway for upward relative mobility and higher absolute wealth gains as well as protection against downward relative mobility. Upward mobility was associated with lower psychological distress and higher fluid intelligence but also higher weight status.}, }
@article {pmid34221231, year = {2021}, author = {Smit, R and Gubanova, E and Kaufman, J and Landau, M and Molina, B and Andriopoulos, B and Maisonobe, P and Prygova, I and Redaelli, A}, title = {Patient Satisfaction with AbobotulinumtoxinA for Aesthetic Use in the Upper Face: A Systematic Literature Review and Post-hoc Analysis of the APPEAL Study.}, journal = {The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology}, volume = {14}, number = {2}, pages = {E69-E88}, pmid = {34221231}, issn = {1941-2789}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: AbobotulinumtoxinA (AboBoNT-A; Dysport[®]; Ipsen, Boulogne-Billancourt, France/Azzalure[®]; Galderma, Lausanne, Switzerland) is a botulinum neurotoxin type A approved for aesthetic use in the treatment of glabellar lines in adult patients under 65 years in Europe, the United States, and other countries. OBJECTIVE: We sought to analyze current literature on patient satisfaction with aboBoNT-A for upper facial aesthetic indications. METHODS: A systematic review of literature databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar) was performed to identify English-language publications reporting on patients with aesthetic indications (including glabellar lines and wrinkles) receiving aboBoNT-A, that assessed patient and/or physician satisfaction with treatment, with no restrictions on comparator studies. Structured data extraction was used to enable inter-study analysis. A post-hoc analysis was also performed to assess patient satisfaction by sex and age, using results from the noninterventional APPEAL study of patients' satisfaction with aboBoNT-A for treating glabellar lines. RESULTS: Overall, 22 original research papers were identified. Patient satisfaction rates for aboBoNT-A treatment were significantly higher versus placebo from two weeks to between three and five months postinjection. At two to three weeks postinjection, patient satisfaction rates were 52% and 99% across studies. In studies with later time points, patient satisfaction rates were 85 to 87 percent at 5 months and between 25 and 100 percent at 6 months post-injection. Physician satisfaction was also high (97%-100%, across three treatments). No notable differences in patient satisfaction by sex or age were observed in the APPEAL study. CONCLUSION: High rates of patient satisfaction have been achieved with aboBoNT-A treatment for upper facial aesthetic indications. Despite the current recommended interval of ≥12 weeks, satisfaction with the aesthetic results of aboBoNT-A therapy is still evident up to 6 months post-injection in some patients.}, }
@article {pmid34220569, year = {2021}, author = {Faedda, N and Guariglia, C and Piccardi, L and Natalucci, G and Rossetti, S and Baglioni, V and Alunni Fegatelli, D and Romani, M and Vigliante, M and Guidetti, V}, title = {Link Between Topographic Memory and the Combined Presentation of ADHD (ADHD-C): A Pilot Study.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychiatry}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {647243}, pmid = {34220569}, issn = {1664-0640}, abstract = {Background: Topographic memory is the ability to reach various places by recognizing spatial layouts and getting oriented in familiar environments. It involves several different cognitive abilities, in particular executive functions (EF), such as attention, working memory, and planning. Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) show impairments in inhibitory control, regulation of attention, planning, and working memory. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the topographic memory in children with ADHD-combined subtype (ADHD-C). Method: Fifteen children (8-10 years) with a diagnosis of ADHD-C (DSM-5) (ADHD-C group) were compared to 15 children with typical development (TD group) of the same age. All children performed Raven's colored progressive matrices (CPM) test to obtain a measure related with cognitive functioning. The walking Corsi test (WalCT), a large-scale version of the Corsi block-tapping test, was used to assess topographic memory in experimental environment. Results: A higher impairment was observed in ADHD-C than TD with significant differences in the WalCT, in particular on the topographic short-term memory (TSTM) task, on the topographic learning (TL) task, and on the repetition number (RN) task during the TL task. Perseverative errors were reported in performing the square-sequence in the WalCT. Zero-order correlations showed a positive correlation between TSTM and auditory attention, and memory of design of NEPSY-II and digit span of WISC-IV. No statistically significant differences were found between the ADHD-C group and TD group in the TL task in the WalCT condition. Conclusion: In ADHD-C, initial topographic learning was compromised whereas the long-term retention of learned topographical material seemed to not be impaired. In particular, these impairments seem to be linked with difficulties in sustained attention, in spatial memory for novel visual materials, in a poor working memory, and in perseverative behaviors.}, }
@article {pmid34213460, year = {2020}, author = {Bhargava, A and Bhargava, M and Meher, A}, title = {Universal health coverage and tuberculosis care in India in the times of Covid-19: Aligning Ayushman Bharat (National Health Assurance Scheme) to improve case detection, reduce deaths and catastrophic health expenditure.}, journal = {The National medical journal of India}, volume = {33}, number = {5}, pages = {298-301}, doi = {10.4103/0970-258X.303111}, pmid = {34213460}, issn = {2583-150X}, mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention &amp; control ; Communicable Disease Control/*organization &amp; administration ; *Early Diagnosis ; Health Expenditures ; Health Services Accessibility/standards/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Health Services Needs and Demand ; *Hospitalization ; Humans ; India/epidemiology ; Mortality ; *Patient Care Management/methods/organization &amp; administration/trends ; Public Health/methods/trends ; Quality Improvement/organization &amp; administration ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Time-to-Treatment ; *Tuberculosis/diagnosis/economics/mortality/therapy ; *Universal Health Insurance ; }, abstract = {India has the largest global burden of new cases of tuberculosis (TB) and deaths due to TB. These occur predominantly in the poor who suffer catastrophic costs during diagnosis and treatment. The National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme has ambitious goals of 80% reduction of incidence of TB, 90% reduction in mortality due to TB by 2025 and 0% occurrence of catastrophic costs to households affected by TB by 2020. The Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting disruption to TB services are expected to worsen the situation. There are gaps in case finding at the peripheral level and access to care at the higher level for patients with TB. An estimated 32% patients with active TB do not access diagnostic services, while catastrophic costs associated with hospitalization are a barrier to access for seriously ill patients. Deaths due to TB in India occur largely at home and not in medical facilities, and are preventable with appropriate inpatient care. The Ayushman Bharat scheme with its Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) and coverage for inpatient care under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) can facilitate, the achievement of the goals of TB elimination. The HWCs provide an opportunity to close the case-finding gap as first point of contact by enabling sputum transport services to the designated microscopy centres. This will facilitate case detection, reduce diagnostic delays, and decrease community transmission and the incidence of TB. The benefit package of PM-JAY can cover patients with pulmonary TB, inpatient evaluation for other forms of TB, enhance the allocation for treatment and cover management of comorbid conditions such as severe undernutrition, anaemia, HIV and diabetes.}, }
@article {pmid34211049, year = {2021}, author = {Amor, N and Noman, MT and Petru, M and Mahmood, A and Ismail, A}, title = {Neural network-crow search model for the prediction of functional properties of nano TiO2 coated cotton composites.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {13649}, pmid = {34211049}, issn = {2045-2322}, abstract = {This paper presents a new hybrid approach for the prediction of functional properties i.e., self-cleaning efficiency, antimicrobial efficiency and ultraviolet protection factor (UPF), of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) coated cotton fabric. The proposed approach is based on feedforward artificial neural network (ANN) model called a multilayer perceptron (MLP), trained by an optimized algorithm known as crow search algorithm (CSA). ANN is an effective and widely used approach for the prediction of extremely complex problems. Various studies have been proposed to improve the weight training of ANN using metaheuristic algorithms. CSA is a latest and an effective metaheuristic method relies on the intelligent behavior of crows. CSA has been never proposed to improve the weight training of ANN. Therefore, CSA is adopted to optimize the initial weights and thresholds of the ANN model, in order to improve the training accuracy and prediction performance of functional properties of TiO2 NPs coated cotton composites. Furthermore, our proposed algorithm i.e., multilayer perceptron with crow search algorithm (MLP-CSA) was applied to map out the complex input-output conditions to predict the optimal results. The amount of chemicals and reaction time were selected as input variables and the amount of titanium dioxide coated on cotton, self-cleaning efficiency, antimicrobial efficiency and UPF were evaluated as output results. A sensitivity analysis was carried out to assess the performance of CSA in prediction process. MLP-CSA provided excellent result that were statistically significant and highly accurate as compared to standard MLP model and other metaheuristic algorithms used in the training of ANN reported in the literature.}, }
@article {pmid34200875, year = {2021}, author = {Ciebiera, O and Czechowski, P and Morelli, F and Piekarski, R and Bocheński, M and Chachulska-Serweta, J and Jerzak, L}, title = {Selection of Urbanized Areas by Magpie Pica pica in a Medium Size City in Poland.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {11}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {34200875}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {The Magpie Pica pica occurs all over open agricultural areas in Poland, especially near human settlements (particularly in western Poland). The aim of this study was to estimate the size of the local Magpie population and characterize, in detail, nest site selection in a medium size city Górzów Wlkp. in the XXI century. For this study, the whole city was divided into a total of 114 squares of 1 × 1 km. Data were collected in spring 2014. A total of 474 Magpie pairs were recorded. The average density was 5.5 pairs/km[2] (min = 0, max = 22 nests/square), in the non-urbanized habitat type-3.7 p/km[2], and in the urbanized habitat type-13.5 p/km[2]. Magpie nests were found most often on Spruces Picea sp. and Poplars Populus sp. The mean height of the nest site was 11.5 m, while the mean height of trees used for nesting was 13.4 m. The type of tree arrangement most frequently used for nesting was tree rows (26.3%), followed by single trees (24.6%) and clusters of 4-10 trees (20.1%). The results for the Magpie's environmental preferences do not differ from the general patterns described earlier. The study shows that magpies can adapt to changing urbanization factors, and changes in the choice of conifers help the species to adapt to highly anthropogenic habitats.}, }
@article {pmid34190650, year = {2021}, author = {Makhni, E and Lizzio, V and Chalmers, P}, title = {The Effect of the Crow Hop on Elbow Stress During an Interval Throwing Program: Response.}, journal = {The American journal of sports medicine}, volume = {49}, number = {8}, pages = {NP32-NP33}, doi = {10.1177/03635465211021402}, pmid = {34190650}, issn = {1552-3365}, mesh = {Animals ; *Baseball ; *Crows ; Elbow ; *Elbow Joint ; Humans ; }, }
@article {pmid34190645, year = {2021}, author = {Wong, R and Laudner, K and Evans, D and Meister, K}, title = {The Effect of the Crow Hop on Elbow Stress During an Interval Throwing Program: Letter to the Editor.}, journal = {The American journal of sports medicine}, volume = {49}, number = {8}, pages = {NP31-NP32}, doi = {10.1177/03635465211021409}, pmid = {34190645}, issn = {1552-3365}, mesh = {Animals ; *Baseball ; *Crows ; Elbow ; *Elbow Joint ; Humans ; }, }
@article {pmid34185776, year = {2021}, author = {Laumer, IB and Massen, JJM and Boehm, PM and Boehm, A and Geisler, A and Auersperg, AMI}, title = {Individual Goffin´s cockatoos (Cacatua goffiniana) show flexible targeted helping in a tool transfer task.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {16}, number = {6}, pages = {e0253416}, pmid = {34185776}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {P 29084/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cockatoos/*physiology ; *Creativity ; Female ; Learning/*physiology ; Male ; *Reward ; }, abstract = {Flexible targeted helping is considered an advanced form of prosocial behavior in hominoids, as it requires the actor to assess different situations that a conspecific may be in, and to subsequently flexibly satisfy different needs of that partner depending on the nature of those situations. So far, apart from humans such behaviour has only been experimentally shown in chimpanzees and in Eurasian jays. Recent studies highlight the prosocial tendencies of several bird species, yet flexible targeted helping remained untested, largely due to methodological issues as such tasks are generally designed around tool-use, and very few bird species are capable of tool-use. Here, we tested Goffin's cockatoos, which proved to be skilled tool innovators in captivity, in a tool transfer task in which an actor had access to four different objects/tools and a partner to one of two different apparatuses that each required one of these tools to retrieve a reward. As expected from this species, we recorded playful object transfers across all conditions. Yet, importantly and similar to apes, three out of eight birds transferred the correct tool more often in the test condition than in a condition that also featured an apparatus but no partner. Furthermore, one of these birds transferred that correct tool first more often before transferring any other object in the test condition than in the no-partner condition, while the other two cockatoos were marginally non-significantly more likely to do so. Additionally, there was no difference in the likelihood of the correct tool being transferred first for either of the two apparatuses, suggesting that these birds flexibly adjusted what to transfer based on their partner´s need. Future studies should focus on explanations for the intra-specific variation of this behaviour, and should test other parrots and other large-brained birds to see how this can be generalized across the class and to investigate the evolutionary history of this trait.}, }
@article {pmid34173817, year = {2021}, author = {Pardal, R and Heidstra, R}, title = {Root stem cell niche networks: it's complexed! Insights from Arabidopsis.}, journal = {Journal of experimental botany}, volume = {72}, number = {19}, pages = {6727-6738}, pmid = {34173817}, issn = {1460-2431}, mesh = {*Arabidopsis/metabolism ; *Arabidopsis Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Meristem/metabolism ; Plant Roots/metabolism ; Stem Cell Niche ; }, abstract = {The presence of two meristematic cell populations in the root and shoot apex allows plants to grow indefinitely. Due to its simple and predictable tissue organization, the Arabidopsis root apical meristem remains an ideal model to study mechanisms such as stem cell specification, asymmetric cell division, and differentiation in plants. The root stem cell niche consists of a quiescent organizing centre surrounded by mitotically active stem cells, which originate all root tissues. The transcription factors PLETHORA, SCARECROW, and WOX5 form signalling hubs that integrate multiple inputs from an increasing number of proteins implicated in the regulation of stem cell niche function. Recently, locally produced auxin was added to the list of important mobile factors in the stem cell niche. In addition, protein-protein interaction data elegantly demonstrate how parallel pathways can meet in a common objective. Here we discuss how multiple networks converge to specify and maintain the root stem cell niche.}, }
@article {pmid34173069, year = {2021}, author = {Kim, S and Maleki, N and Rezaie-Balf, M and Singh, VP and Alizamir, M and Kim, NW and Lee, JT and Kisi, O}, title = {Assessment of the total organic carbon employing the different nature-inspired approaches in the Nakdong River, South Korea.}, journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment}, volume = {193}, number = {7}, pages = {445}, pmid = {34173069}, issn = {1573-2959}, support = {20200027-001//Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology/ ; }, mesh = {Carbon ; *Environmental Monitoring ; Humans ; Republic of Korea ; *Rivers ; Water Quality ; }, abstract = {Total organic carbon (TOC) has vital significance for measuring water quality in river streamflow. The detection of TOC can be considered as an important evaluation because of issues on human health and environmental indicators. This research utilized the novel hybrid models to improve the predictive accuracy of TOC at Andong and Changnyeong stations in the Nakdong River, South Korea. A data pre-processing approach (i.e., complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN)) and evolutionary optimization algorithm (i.e., crow search algorithm (CSA)) were implemented for enhancing the accuracy and robustness of standalone models (i.e., multivariate adaptive regression spline (MARS) and M5Tree). Various water quality indicators (i.e., TOC, potential of Hydrogen (pH), electrical conductivity (EC), dissolved oxygen (DO), water temperature (WT), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and suspended solids (SS)) were utilized for developing the standalone and hybrid models based on three input combinations (i.e., categories 1~3). The developed models were evaluated utilizing the correlation coefficient (CC), root-mean-square error (RMSE), and Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE). The CEEMDAN-MARS-CSA based on category 2 (C-M-CSA2) model (CC = 0.762, RMSE = 0.570 mg/L, and NSE = 0.520) was the most accurate for predicting TOC at Andong station, whereas the CEEMDAN-MARS-CSA based on category 3 (C-M-CSA3) model (CC = 0.900, RMSE = 0.675 mg/L, and NSE = 0.680) was the best at Changnyeong station.}, }
@article {pmid34171800, year = {2021}, author = {Park, K and Barghi, M and Lim, JE and Ko, HM and Nam, HY and Lee, SI and Moon, HB}, title = {Assessment of regional and temporal trends in per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances using the Oriental Magpie (Pica serica) in Korea.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {793}, number = {}, pages = {148513}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148513}, pmid = {34171800}, issn = {1879-1026}, mesh = {Adult ; *Alkanesulfonic Acids/analysis ; Carboxylic Acids ; Environmental Monitoring ; *Environmental Pollutants ; Female ; *Fluorocarbons/analysis ; Humans ; Male ; Pica ; Republic of Korea ; }, abstract = {Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are used in industrial and commercial products due to their amphiphilic properties. Birds have been utilized as biomonitoring species due to their environmental pollutant vulnerability and wide distribution. The Oriental Magpie (Pica serica) is a representative residential species inhabiting terrestrial environments. In this study, we measured PFAS concentrations in Magpie liver tissue (n = 253) collected from 12 Korean regions in 2004 and 2017. The predominant compounds were perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS; mean: 23.8 ng/g wet weight), perfluorotridecanoic acid (PFTrDA; 2.79 ng/g), and perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUnDA: 2.11 ng/g). We observed significant correlations between Magpie PFAS measurements, indicating similar sources and bioaccumulation processes. Adult females showed significantly lower PFOS concentrations than adult males and young males and females, indicating that avian sex is a crucial physiological factor of PFAS accumulation. PFOS, perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA), and perfluorotetradecanoic acid (PFTeDA) concentrations in urban regions were significantly higher than rural regions. PFOS concentrations in Magpie livers increased significantly between sampling years, whereas C11-C13 carboxylic acids (PFCAs) decreased. This suggests that urbanization and population are major factors in Magpie PFAS accumulation. Almost all hepatic PFOS concentrations were below the threshold values proposed by previous studies, implying limited risks. Our findings suggest that the Oriental Magpies are PFAS sentinel in residential environments. This is the first comprehensive report on biomonitoring of PFASs using the Oriental Magpie.}, }
@article {pmid34166533, year = {2021}, author = {Agrawal, AA and Zhang, X}, title = {The evolution of coevolution in the study of species interactions.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {75}, number = {7}, pages = {1594-1606}, doi = {10.1111/evo.14293}, pmid = {34166533}, issn = {1558-5646}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Herbivory ; Phylogeny ; Plants ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {The study of reciprocal adaptation in interacting species has been an active and inspiring area of evolutionary research for nearly 60 years. Perhaps owing to its great natural history and potential consequences spanning population divergence to species diversification, coevolution continues to capture the imagination of biologists. Here we trace developments following Ehrlich and Raven's classic paper, with a particular focus on the modern influence of two studies by Dr. May Berenbaum in the 1980s. This series of classic work presented a compelling example exhibiting the macroevolutionary patterns predicted by Ehrlich and Raven and also formalized a microevolutionary approach to measuring selection, functional traits, and understanding reciprocal adaptation between plants and their herbivores. Following this breakthrough was a wave of research focusing on diversifying macroevolutionary patterns, mechanistic chemical ecology, and natural selection on populations within and across community types. Accordingly, we breakdown coevolutionary theory into specific hypotheses at different scales: reciprocal adaptation between populations within a community, differential coevolution among communities, lineage divergence, and phylogenetic patterns. We highlight progress as well as persistent gaps, especially the link between reciprocal adaptation and diversification.}, }
@article {pmid34159574, year = {2021}, author = {Pruneti, C and Vanello, N and Paterni, M and Landini, L and Guidotti, S and Ferdeghini, EM}, title = {Combined functional magnetic resonance imaging and skin conductance to detect localized neural response to psychological stress: a pilot study.}, journal = {Archives italiennes de biologie}, volume = {159}, number = {1}, pages = {21-27}, doi = {10.12871/00039829202112}, pmid = {34159574}, issn = {0003-9829}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Brain/diagnostic imaging ; Brain Mapping ; Female ; Humans ; *Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Pilot Projects ; Stress, Psychological/diagnostic imaging ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This preliminary study aims at investigating the neural correlates of the stress response, intended as an emotional and cognitive response, through the description of the activation of the autonomic nervous system in a problem-solving task and central functional data; in particular, we recorded skin conductance level (SCL) and response (SCR) and observed the correlation with fMRI data.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: The results obtained from 6 healthy subjects, 3 males and 3 females, aged between 18 and 45 (average = 27, SD = 7.08) who voluntarily offered to participate in the study were examined. They were previously subjected to a brief clinical psychological assessment (MMPI-2) and then to a psychophysiological evaluation. The real experiment consisted in subjecting the participants to an adapted version of the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices 47 (CPM 47) test to evaluate some consequences on brain activity of attention, orientation, reflex and response to stress during fMRI data acquisition and SCL-SCR recording.<br><br>RESULTS: SCR changes were found to be related to the activity of different brain regions such as bilateral precentral gyrus, right inferior frontal gyrus, right medial frontal gyrus, bilateral superior frontal gyri and left anterior cingulate suggesting a specific relationship between attentive processing and autonomic arousal.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The association of SC measurement with neuroimaging allows to highlight the interaction between emotional and cognitive processes: although preliminary, these results partially confirm what previously found in literature on the neural correlates of psychological stress and underline the interaction between cognitive function and autonomic arousal system during a stressful problem-solving task.}, }
@article {pmid34159532, year = {2021}, author = {Kelly, D and Leonard, K and Gibson, B}, title = {Adaptive specialization for spatial memory does not improve route efficiency: Comparing the ability of Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana) and pigeons (Columba livia) to solve traveling salesperson problems.}, journal = {Psychonomic bulletin &amp; review}, volume = {28}, number = {6}, pages = {1991-2002}, pmid = {34159532}, issn = {1531-5320}, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition ; *Columbidae ; *Passeriformes ; Spatial Memory ; }, abstract = {An important question in comparative cognition is whether animals are capable of planning ahead. Todd and Hills (Current Directions in Psychological Science, 29(3), 309-315, 2020) recently suggested that the ability to plan and choose internally may have scaffolded upon the cognitive mechanisms required by animals to search among patchy resources in their external environment. The traveling salesperson problem (TSP) is a spatial optimization problem in which a traveler is faced with the task of finding the best route from a start location to two or more destinations or targets. The Clark's nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) is a food-storing corvid with a highly specialized spatial memory. Spatial memory would appear to be deeply rooted in the cognitive mechanisms required for choosing efficiently among multiple alternative routes during a TSP. If so, then species like nutcrackers that are more dependent upon spatial memory for survival may have a greater ability to plan ahead or choose more efficiently among different route options than species that have less selective pressure for remembering the location of food, like pigeons. We examined the ability of nutcrackers to solve TSPs using the same procedures and target configurations as in our past research (Gibson, Wilkerson, &amp; Kelly, Animal Cognition, 15, 379-391, 2012) to explore if nutcrackers can efficiently solve TSPs and how their route solutions compare with those of pigeons. Nutcrackers did not display an advantage in route efficiency and performed comparably to pigeons. Both species tended to prefer a nearest-neighbor strategy to more globally efficient routes. Having a more robust spatial memory may not improve the ability of animals to determine routes to multiple locations.}, }
@article {pmid34158103, year = {2021}, author = {Wheeler, SS and Taff, CC and Reisen, WK and Townsend, AK}, title = {Mosquito blood-feeding patterns and nesting behavior of American crows, an amplifying host of West Nile virus.}, journal = {Parasites &amp; vectors}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {331}, pmid = {34158103}, issn = {1756-3305}, support = {13-2735//Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*physiopathology/virology ; Crows/blood/*physiology/*virology ; Culex/*physiology/*virology ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; Nesting Behavior ; West Nile Fever/physiopathology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/*physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Although American crows are a key indicator species for West Nile virus (WNV) and mount among the highest viremias reported for any host, the importance of crows in the WNV transmission cycle has been called into question because of their consistent underrepresentation in studies of Culex blood meal sources. Here, we test the hypothesis that this apparent underrepresentation could be due, in part, to underrepresentation of crow nesting habitat from mosquito sampling designs. Specifically, we examine how the likelihood of a crow blood meal changes with distance to and timing of active crow nests in a Davis, California, population.<br><br>METHODS: Sixty artificial mosquito resting sites were deployed from May to September 2014 in varying proximity to known crow nesting sites, and Culex blood meal hosts were identified by DNA barcoding. Genotypes from crow blood meals and local crows (72 nestlings from 30 broods and 389 local breeders and helpers) were used to match mosquito blood meals to specific local crows.<br><br>RESULTS: Among the 297 identified Culex blood meals, 20 (6.7%) were attributable to crows. The mean percentage of blood meals of crow origin was 19% in the nesting period (1 May-18 June 2014), but 0% in the weeks after fledging (19 June-1 September 2014), and the likelihood of a crow blood meal increased with proximity to an active nest: the odds that crows hosted a Culex blood meal were 38.07 times greater within 10&#xa0;m of an active nest than&#x2009;>&#x2009;10&#xa0;m from an active nest. Nine of ten crow blood meals that could be matched to a genotype of a specific crow belonged to either nestlings in these nests or their mothers. Six of the seven genotypes that could not be attributed to sampled birds belonged to females, a sex bias likely due to mosquitoes targeting incubating or brooding females.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Data herein indicate that breeding crows serve as hosts for Culex in the initial stages of the WNV spring enzootic cycle. Given their high viremia, infected crows could thereby contribute to the re-initiation and early amplification of the virus, increasing its availability as mosquitoes shift to other moderately competent later-breeding avian hosts.}, }
@article {pmid34148013, year = {2021}, author = {Shen, M and Zhang, C and Yi, X and Guo, J and Xu, S and Huang, Z and He, M and Chen, X and Luo, D and Yang, F}, title = {Association of multi-metals exposure with intelligence quotient score of children: A prospective cohort study.}, journal = {Environment international}, volume = {155}, number = {}, pages = {106692}, doi = {10.1016/j.envint.2021.106692}, pmid = {34148013}, issn = {1873-6750}, mesh = {Bayes Theorem ; Child ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; *Metals ; Prospective Studies ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Associations between most single metals and children's intelligence quotient (IQ) scores have been evaluated in previous studies. However, associations between multi-metal exposures and children's IQ scores have not been analyzed.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To assess the joint effects of lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), antimony (Sb), tin (Sn) and titanium (Ti) co-exposure on children's IQ scores.<br><br>METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted in Shimen and Huayuan, Hunan Province, China. Urine metals levels were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) at baseline. Children's IQ scores were repeatedly measured at baseline and follow-up following the method of Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) and standardized as z scores. We fitted linear regression models and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) models to investigate the associations of metal levels with children's IQ scores after adjusting for covariates.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 633 participants aged 7-10&#x202f;years completed the survey. Urinary Pb (&#x3b2;&#x202f;=&#x202f;-0.028, P&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.022) and urinary Ti (&#x3b2;&#x202f;=&#x202f;-0.0003, P&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.001) were inversely associated with children's IQ scores. The BKMR analyses revealed significant negative overall effects of the five metals on children's IQ scores when all the metals were above their median levels, while significant positive associations were shown when all the metal concentrations were below their median levels. The model also showed negative trends of Sn and Ti on children's IQ. Furthermore, Ti and Sn had a synergistic relationship, with a decline in IQ score when Sn exposure was relatively high. The urinary Sn concentration was significantly higher but the urinary Ti concentration was significantly lower in participants from the Shimen area than in those from the Huayuan area. Decreasing trends of the overall effects were observed in both the Shimen and Huayuan areas.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our findings revealed that multi-metal exposures caused a decline in children's IQ scores according to traditional linear regression models and the BKMR model. Our results provide some evidence of the association between multi-metal exposure and children's IQ. Meanwhile, interactions between multi-metal exposures on children's IQ should be given more attention.}, }
@article {pmid34144393, year = {2021}, author = {Stocker, M and Prosl, J and Vanhooland, LC and Horn, L and Bugnyar, T and Canoine, V and Massen, JJM}, title = {Measuring salivary mesotocin in birds - Seasonal differences in ravens' peripheral mesotocin levels.}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {134}, number = {}, pages = {105015}, doi = {10.1016/j.yhbeh.2021.105015}, pmid = {34144393}, issn = {1095-6867}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; *Crows ; *Oxytocin/analogs &amp; derivatives ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {Oxytocin is involved in a broad array of social behaviours. While saliva has been used regularly to investigate the role of oxytocin in social behaviour of mammal species, so far, to our knowledge, no-one has tried to measure its homolog, mesotocin, in birds' saliva. Therefore, in this study we measured salivary mesotocin in common ravens (Corvus corax), and subsequently explored its link to three aspects of raven sociality. We trained ravens (n = 13) to voluntarily provide saliva samples and analysed salivary mesotocin with a commercial oxytocin enzyme-immunoassay kit, also suitable for mesotocin. After testing parallelism and recovery, we investigated the effect of bonding status, sex and season on mesotocin levels. We found that mesotocin was significantly more likely to be detected in samples taken during the breeding season (spring) than during the mating season (winter). In those samples in which mesotocin was detected, concentrations were also significantly higher during the breeding than during the mating season. In contrast, bonding status and sex were not found to relate to mesotocin detectability and concentrations. The seasonal differences in mesotocin correspond to behavioral patterns known to be associated with mesotocin/oxytocin, with ravens showing much more aggression during the mating season while being more tolerant of conspecifics in the breeding season. We show for the first time that saliva samples can be useful for the non-invasive determination of hormone levels in birds. However, the rate of successfully analysed samples was very low, and collection and analysis methods will benefit from further improvements.}, }
@article {pmid34141215, year = {2021}, author = {Ormrod, AEC and Doyle, FI and Lawson, KJ and Hodges, KE}, title = {Niche partitioning of avian predators in northern grasslands amended by biosolids.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {11}, number = {11}, pages = {6248-6259}, pmid = {34141215}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Many food webs are affected by bottom-up nutrient addition, as additional biomass or productivity at a given trophic level can support more consumers. In turn, when prey are abundant, predators may converge on the same diets rather than partitioning food resources. Here, we examine the diets and habitat use of predatory and omnivorous birds in response to biosolids amendment of northern grasslands used as grazing range for cattle in British Columbia, Canada. From an ecosystem management perspective, we test whether dietary convergence occurred and whether birds preferentially used the pastures with biosolids. Biosolids treatments increased Orthoptera densities and our work occurred during a vole (Microtus spp.) population peak, so both types of prey were abundant. American Kestrels (Falco sparverius) consumed both small mammals and Orthoptera. Short-eared Owls (Asio flammeus) and Long-eared owls (Asio otus) primarily ate voles (>97% of biomass consumed) as did Northern Harriers (Circus hudsonius, 88% vole biomass). Despite high dietary overlap, these species had minimal spatial overlap, and Short-eared Owls strongly preferred pastures amended with biosolids. Common Ravens (Corvus corax), Black-billed Magpies (Pica hudsonia), and American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) consumed Orthoptera, Coleoptera, vegetation, and only a few small mammals; crows avoided pastures with biosolids. Thus, when both insect and mammalian prey were abundant, corvids maintained omnivorous diets, whereas owls and Harriers specialized on voles. Spatial patterns were more complex, as birds were likely responding to prey abundance, vegetation structure, and other birds in this consumer guild.}, }
@article {pmid34137635, year = {2021}, author = {Sarker, S and Nath, BK and Talukder, S and Raidal, SR}, title = {Complete Mitochondrial Genome Sequence of the Magpie-Lark (Grallina cyanoleuca).}, journal = {Microbiology resource announcements}, volume = {10}, number = {24}, pages = {e0034221}, pmid = {34137635}, issn = {2576-098X}, abstract = {Here, we report the complete mitochondrial genome sequence of an Australian passerine bird, magpie-lark (Grallina cyanoleuca). The circular genome has a size of 16,933 bp and contains 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, and 2 rRNA genes. This study provides a reference mitochondrial genome of magpie-lark for further molecular studies.}, }
@article {pmid34127940, year = {2020}, author = {Kwon, JH and Lee, DH and Criado, MF and Killmaster, L and Ali, MZ and Giasuddin, M and Samad, MA and Karim, MR and Hasan, M and Brum, E and Nasrin, T and Swayne, DE}, title = {Genetic evolution and transmission dynamics of clade 2.3.2.1a highly pathogenic avian influenza A/H5N1 viruses in Bangladesh.}, journal = {Virus evolution}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {veaa046}, pmid = {34127940}, issn = {2057-1577}, abstract = {Asian lineage A/H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) have been responsible for continuous outbreaks in Bangladesh since 2007. Although clades 2.2.2 and 2.3.4.2 HPAIVs have disappeared since poultry vaccination was introduced in 2012, clade 2.3.2.1a viruses have continued to be detected in Bangladesh. In this study, we identified A/H9N2 (n = 15), A/H5N1 (n = 19), and A/H5N1-A/H9N2 (n = 18) mixed viruses from live bird markets, chicken farms, and wild house crows (Corvus splendens) in Bangladesh from 2016 to 2018. We analyzed the genetic sequences of the H5 HPAIVs, to better understand the evolutionary history of clade 2.3.2.1a viruses in Bangladesh. Although seven HA genetic subgroups (B1-B7) and six genotypes (G1, G1.1, G1.2, G2, G2.1, and G2.2) have been identified in Bangladesh, only subgroup B7 and genotypes G2, G2.1, and G2.2 were detected after 2016. The replacement of G1 genotype by G2 in Bangladesh was possibly due to vaccination and viral competition in duck populations. Initially, genetic diversity decreased after introduction of vaccination in 2012, but in 2015, genetic diversity increased and was associated with the emergence of genotype G2. Our phylodynamic analysis suggests that domestic Anseriformes, including ducks and geese, may have played a major role in persistence, spread, evolution, and genotype replacement of clade 2.3.2.1a HPAIVs in Bangladesh. Thus, improvements in biosecurity and monitoring of domestic Anseriformes are needed for more effective control of HPAI in Bangladesh.}, }
@article {pmid34117940, year = {2021}, author = {King, DI and Jeffery, M and Bailey, BA}, title = {Generating indicator species for bird monitoring within the humid forests of northeast Central America.}, journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment}, volume = {193}, number = {7}, pages = {413}, pmid = {34117940}, issn = {1573-2959}, mesh = {Animals ; Belize ; Biodiversity ; *Birds ; Central America ; Ecosystem ; *Environmental Monitoring ; Forests ; Humans ; }, abstract = {The use of indicator species can simplify bird monitoring by reducing the level of specialized skills needed, which increases the potential pool of participants and reduces training costs and complexity. To facilitate monitoring in the humid forests of northeast Central America, we conducted point count surveys for birds across gradients of disturbance in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, Belize, and analyzed the association of bird species with remotely sensed metrics of forest condition and anthropogenic disturbance using indicator species analysis. Twenty species exhibited significant associations with one or more of these metrics. We propose six species as indicators for anthropogenic disturbance based on our criteria of being associated with anthropogenically disturbed sites, or anthropogenically disturbed and riparian sites with no explicit mention in the literature of an obligate association with riparian habitats, or association of remotely sensed metrics that appeared to reflect disturbance: yellow-olive flycatcher, red-legged honeycreeper, dusky antbird, blue ground dove, buff-throated saltator, and brown jay. We propose the keel-billed motmot as an indicator of undisturbed forest based on its association with forested sites in our analyses. Green shrike vireo, collard trogon, rufous-tailed jacamar, and rufous piha were associated with a specific elevational range but not associated with disturbance, so upward shifts in elevation that might indicate response to climate change would not be confounded with habitat disturbance or degradation. This exercise yielded a much-reduced list of monitoring targets, which will greatly reduce the cost and complexity of forest bird monitoring in the region, as well as reducing barriers to participation.}, }
@article {pmid34104076, year = {2022}, author = {Burfurd, I and Wilkening, T}, title = {Cognitive heterogeneity and complex belief elicitation.}, journal = {Experimental economics}, volume = {25}, number = {2}, pages = {557-592}, pmid = {34104076}, issn = {1386-4157}, abstract = {The Stochastic Becker-DeGroot-Marschak (SBDM) mechanism is a theoretically elegant way of eliciting incentive-compatible beliefs under a variety of risk preferences. However, the mechanism is complex and there is concern that some participants may misunderstand its incentive properties. We use a two-part design to evaluate the relationship between participants' probabilistic reasoning skills, task complexity, and belief elicitation. We first identify participants whose decision-making is consistent and inconsistent with probabilistic reasoning using a task in which non-Bayesian modes of decision-making lead to violations of stochastic dominance. We then elicit participants' beliefs in both easy and hard decision problems. Relative to Introspection, there is less variation in belief errors between easy and hard problems in the SBDM mechanism. However, there is a greater difference in belief errors between consistent and inconsistent participants. These results suggest that while the SBDM mechanism encourages individuals to think more carefully about beliefs, it is more sensitive to heterogeneity in probabilistic reasoning. In a follow-up experiment, we also identify participants with high and low fluid intelligence with a Raven task, and high and low proclivities for cognitive effort using an extended Cognitive Reflection Test. Although performance on these tasks strongly predict errors in both the SBDM mechanism and Introspection, there is no significant interaction effect between the elicitation mechanism and either ability or effort. Our results suggest that mechanism complexity is an important consideration when using elicitation mechanisms, and that participants' probabilistic reasoning is an important consideration when interpreting elicited beliefs.}, }
@article {pmid34093700, year = {2021}, author = {Jia, YH and Qiu, J and Ma, ZZ and Li, FF}, title = {A Novel Crow Swarm Optimization Algorithm (CSO) Coupling Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and Crow Search Algorithm (CSA).}, journal = {Computational intelligence and neuroscience}, volume = {2021}, number = {}, pages = {6686826}, pmid = {34093700}, issn = {1687-5273}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Animals ; Benchmarking ; *Crows ; Humans ; }, abstract = {The balance between exploitation and exploration essentially determines the performance of a population-based optimization algorithm, which is also a big challenge in algorithm design. Particle swarm optimization (PSO) has strong ability in exploitation, but is relatively weak in exploration, while crow search algorithm (CSA) is characterized by simplicity and more randomness. This study proposes a new crow swarm optimization algorithm coupling PSO and CSA, which provides the individuals the possibility of exploring the unknown regions under the guidance of another random individual. The proposed CSO algorithm is tested on several benchmark functions, including both unimodal and multimodal problems with different variable dimensions. The performance of the proposed CSO is evaluated by the optimization efficiency, the global search ability, and the robustness to parameter settings, all of which are improved to a great extent compared with either PSO and CSA, as the proposed CSO combines the advantages of PSO in exploitation and that of CSA in exploration, especially for complex high-dimensional problems.}, }
@article {pmid34090340, year = {2021}, author = {Guiglielmoni, N and Houtain, A and Derzelle, A and Van Doninck, K and Flot, JF}, title = {Overcoming uncollapsed haplotypes in long-read assemblies of non-model organisms.}, journal = {BMC bioinformatics}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {303}, pmid = {34090340}, issn = {1471-2105}, support = {764840//H2020 Marie Sk&#x142;odowska-Curie Actions/ ; }, mesh = {Genome ; *Genomics ; Haplotypes ; *High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Long-read sequencing is revolutionizing genome assembly: as PacBio and Nanopore technologies become more accessible in technicity and in cost, long-read assemblers flourish and are starting to deliver chromosome-level assemblies. However, these long reads are usually error-prone, making the generation of a haploid reference out of a diploid genome a difficult enterprise. Failure to properly collapse haplotypes results in fragmented and structurally incorrect assemblies and wreaks havoc on orthology inference pipelines, yet this serious issue is rarely acknowledged and dealt with in genomic projects, and an independent, comparative benchmark of the capacity of assemblers and post-processing tools to properly collapse or purge haplotypes is still lacking.<br><br>RESULTS: We tested different assembly strategies on the genome of the rotifer Adineta vaga, a non-model organism for which high coverages of both PacBio and Nanopore reads were available. The assemblers we tested (Canu, Flye, NextDenovo, Ra, Raven, Shasta and wtdbg2) exhibited strikingly different behaviors when dealing with highly heterozygous regions, resulting in variable amounts of uncollapsed haplotypes. Filtering reads generally improved haploid assemblies, and we also benchmarked three post-processing tools aimed at detecting and purging uncollapsed haplotypes in long-read assemblies: HaploMerger2, purge_haplotigs and purge_dups.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: We provide a thorough evaluation of popular assemblers on a non-model eukaryote genome with variable levels of heterozygosity. Our study highlights several strategies using pre and post-processing approaches to generate haploid assemblies with high continuity and completeness. This benchmark will help users to improve haploid assemblies of non-model organisms, and evaluate the quality of their own assemblies.}, }
@article {pmid34086914, year = {2021}, author = {Freeman, NE and Norris, DR and Sutton, AO and Strickland, D and Kyser, TK and Newman, AEM}, title = {Early-Life Corticosterone Body Condition Influence Social Status and Survival in a Food-Caching Passerine.}, journal = {Integrative and comparative biology}, volume = {61}, number = {1}, pages = {9-19}, doi = {10.1093/icb/icab038}, pmid = {34086914}, issn = {1557-7023}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; *Corticosterone ; Feathers ; Social Behavior ; *Songbirds/physiology ; }, abstract = {Individuals undergo profound changes throughout their early life as they grow and transition between life-history stages. As a result, the conditions that individuals experience during development can have both immediate and lasting effects on their physiology, behavior, and, ultimately, fitness. In a population of Canada jays in Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada, we characterized the diet composition and physiological profile of young jays at three key time points during development (nestling, pre-fledge, and pre-dispersal) by quantifying stable-carbon (δ13C) and -nitrogen (δ15N) isotopes and corticosterone concentrations in feathers. We then investigated the downstream effects of early-life diet composition, feather corticosterone, and environmental conditions on a juvenile's social status, body condition, and probability of being observed in the fall following hatch. Across the three time points, the diet of Canada jay young was composed primarily of vertebrate tissue and human food with the proportion of these food items increasing as the jays neared dispersal. Feather corticosterone concentrations also shifted across the three time points, decreasing from nestling to pre-dispersal. Dominant juveniles had elevated corticosterone concentrations in their feathers grown pre-dispersal compared with subordinates. High body condition as nestlings was associated with high body condition as juveniles and an increased probability of being observed in the fall. Together, our results demonstrate that nestling physiology and body condition influence the social status and body condition once individuals are independent, with potential long-term consequences on survival and fitness.}, }
@article {pmid34086153, year = {2021}, author = {Kovalev, SY and Yakimenko, VV}, title = {Kama virus (KAMV) is an atypical representative of the seabird tick-borne flaviviruses.}, journal = {Virus genes}, volume = {57}, number = {4}, pages = {395-399}, pmid = {34086153}, issn = {1572-994X}, mesh = {Animals ; Antigens, Viral/genetics ; Birds ; Encephalitis Viruses, Tick-Borne/*genetics/pathogenicity ; Flavivirus/*genetics/pathogenicity ; Flavivirus Infections/*genetics/pathology/virology ; Genome, Viral/*genetics ; Humans ; Ixodes/genetics/virology ; Nucleic Acid Conformation ; }, abstract = {According to modern classification, tick-borne flaviviruses have been divided into a mammalian tick-borne virus group and a seabird tick-borne virus group (STBVG). The STBVG includes the Tyuleniy virus, Meaban virus, Saumarez Reef virus, and the recently discovered Kama virus (KAMV). The latter was isolated from Ixodes lividus, an obligate parasitic tick of the sand martin (Riparia riparia), in 1989 in the central part of the Russian Plain. In 2014, based on molecular genetic analysis, it was shown that KAMV is a new virus belonging to STBVG, genus Flavivirus, fam. Flaviviridae. Very little is known about the Kama virus concerning its range, vectors, and reservoir hosts. GenBank contains a single sequence of the complete genome of this virus. In the present study, the complete genome sequences of two strains, isolated in 1983 in the Omsk region (Western Siberia) from gamasid mites in the nests of rooks (Corvus frugilegus), have been determined. Phylogenetic analyses of their genomes showed a close relationship both with each other (approx. 98.9% nucleotide identity) and with KAMV isolated in European Russia (approx. 98.4% nucleotide identity). The ecological features of KAMV that are due to the species of the vector (gamasid mites) and its hosts (colonial birds of the mainland of Eurasia) indicate that KAMV is an atypical representative STBVG.}, }
@article {pmid34082829, year = {2021}, author = {Chakarov, N and Veiga, J and Ruiz-Arrondo, I and Valera, F}, title = {Atypical behavior of a black fly species connects cavity-nesting birds with generalist blood parasites in an arid area of Spain.}, journal = {Parasites &amp; vectors}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {298}, pmid = {34082829}, issn = {1756-3305}, support = {CGL2014-55969//Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovaci&#xf3;n y Universidades/ ; BES-2015-075951//Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovaci&#xf3;n y Universidades/ ; PGC2018-097426-B-C22//Agencia Estatal de Investigaci&#xf3;n (ES)/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*blood/etiology/*parasitology ; Blood ; Desert Climate ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Insect Vectors/anatomy &amp; histology/genetics/*parasitology/physiology ; Meals ; Nesting Behavior ; Phylogeny ; Simuliidae/anatomy &amp; histology/genetics/*parasitology/physiology ; Spain ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The feeding behavior of bloodsucking insects determines the transmission, distribution, host spectrum and evolution of blood parasites in the wild. Conventional wisdom suggests that some vector groups (e.g. black flies, family Simuliidae) are consistently exophagous daytime biters. We aimed to understand more about the exceptions to this pattern by combining targeted trapping and molecular identification of parasites in vectors.<br><br>METHODS: In this study, we collected black flies in nest boxes used by European rollers Coracias garrulus in southeastern Spain. We molecularly analyzed 434 individual insects, identifying the black fly species caught in the nest boxes, their potential vertebrate blood meals, and the haemosporidian parasite lineages that they carried.<br><br>RESULTS: Only one black fly species, Simulium rubzovianum, appeared to enter the nest boxes of rollers. Among the trapped specimens, 15% contained vertebrate DNA, which always belonged to rollers, even though only half of those specimens were visibly engorged. Furthermore, 15% of all black flies contained Leucocytozoon lineages, indicating previous feeding on avian hosts but probably not on infected adult rollers. The known vertebrate hosts of the recorded Leucocytozoon lineages suggested that large and/or abundant birds are their hosts. Particularly represented were cavity-nesting species breeding in the vicinity, such as pigeons, corvids and owls. Open-nesting species such as thrushes and birds of prey were also represented.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our data strongly suggest that S. rubzovianum bites uninfected roller nestlings and infected individuals of other species, potentially incubating adults, inside nest boxes and natural cavities. This simuliid does not appear to have a strong preference for specific host clades. Contrary to the general pattern for the group, and possibly enhanced by the harsh environmental conditions in the study area, this black fly appeared to intensively use and may even have a preference for confined spaces such as cavities for feeding and resting. Preferences of vectors for atypical microhabitat niches where hosts are less mobile may enable social and within-family transmission and parasite speciation in the long term. At the same time, a lack of host preference in concentrated multispecies communities can lead to host switches. Both processes may be underappreciated driving forces in the evolution of avian blood parasites.}, }
@article {pmid34081496, year = {2021}, author = {Vernouillet, A and Leonard, K and Katz, JS and Magnotti, JF and Wright, A and Kelly, DM}, title = {Abstract-concept learning in two species of new world corvids, pinyon jays (Gymnorhinus Cyanocephalus) and California scrub jays (Aphelocoma Californica).}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Animal learning and cognition}, volume = {47}, number = {3}, pages = {384-392}, doi = {10.1037/xan0000283}, pmid = {34081496}, issn = {2329-8464}, support = {//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council/ ; //Canada Research Chair fund/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; *Concept Formation ; *Learning ; }, abstract = {concepts require individuals to identify relationships between novel stimuli. Previous studies have reported that the ability to learn abstract concepts is found in a wide range of species. In regard to a same/different concept, Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana) and black-billed magpies (Pica hudsonia), two corvid species, were shown to outperform other avian and primate species (Wright et al., 2017). Two additional corvid species, pinyon jays (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) and California scrub jays (Aphelocoma californica) chosen as they belong to a different clade than nutcrackers and magpies, were examined using the same set-size expansion procedure of the same/different task (the task used with nutcrackers and magpies) to evaluate whether this trait is common across the Corvidae lineage. During this task, concept learning is assessed with novel images after training. Results from the current study showed that when presented with novel stimuli after training with an 8-image set, discrimination accuracy did not differ significantly from chance for pinyon jays and California scrub jays, unlike the magpies and nutcrackers from previous studies that showed partial transfer at that stage. However, concept learning improved with each set-size expansion, and the jays reached full concept learning with a 128-image set. This performance is similar to the other corvids and monkeys tested, all of which outperform pigeons. Results from the current study show a qualitative similarity in full abstract-concept learning in all species tested with a quantitative difference in the set-size functions, highlighting the shared survival importance of mechanisms supporting abstract-concept learning for corvids and primates. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid34080508, year = {2022}, author = {Saleh, G and Ahmed, A and Hassanain, O and Emad, A and Essameldin, S and Ragai, M and Saad, Y}, title = {Nutrition in Cancer Patients Positive for COVID-19; Case Series and a Systematic Review of Literature.}, journal = {Nutrition and cancer}, volume = {74}, number = {2}, pages = {450-462}, doi = {10.1080/01635581.2021.1931363}, pmid = {34080508}, issn = {1532-7914}, mesh = {Adult ; *COVID-19 ; Humans ; Male ; *Neoplasms/complications ; Pandemics ; RNA, Viral ; SARS-CoV-2 ; }, abstract = {Cancer is making patients vulnerable to diseases by impairing immunity directly or by anticancer therapy. In COVID-19 era, it is mandatory to face cancer with more organized &amp; prompter response. Nutrition plays an important role in prevention &amp; management of cancer patients. The objective of this study is to understand the role of nutrition in cancer patients during Corvid 19 era. We conducted literature searches till May 2020, electronic databases, evidence-based collections, relevant websites and trial registries about SARS-CoV2/COVID-19 and nutrition in cancer patients. Search generated 836 sources; 83/836 sources were relevant. This review summarized role of nutrition in predisposition, prevention and management of COVID-19 in cancer patient and role of vitamins, mineral supplements and microbiota in era of COVID-19. In this review, implementing appropriate nutritional care with vitamins or mineral supplementation &amp; their effect on outcome remain largely unknown. COVID co-infection with cancer whether under chemotherapy or not have worse outcome especially in male adults. Findings may help in creating recommendations on nutritional protocol of management &amp; prevention of complications during ongoing COVID-19 pandemic for all cancer patients.}, }
@article {pmid34077897, year = {2021}, author = {Julvez, J and López-Vicente, M and Warembourg, C and Maitre, L and Philippat, C and Gützkow, KB and Guxens, M and Evandt, J and Andrusaityte, S and Burgaleta, M and Casas, M and Chatzi, L and de Castro, M and Donaire-González, D and Gražulevičienė, R and Hernandez-Ferrer, C and Heude, B and Mceachan, R and Mon-Williams, M and Nieuwenhuijsen, M and Robinson, O and Sakhi, AK and Sebastian-Galles, N and Slama, R and Sunyer, J and Tamayo-Uria, I and Thomsen, C and Urquiza, J and Vafeiadi, M and Wright, J and Basagaña, X and Vrijheid, M}, title = {Early life multiple exposures and child cognitive function: A multi-centric birth cohort study in six European countries.}, journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)}, volume = {284}, number = {}, pages = {117404}, pmid = {34077897}, issn = {1873-6424}, support = {MR/S03532X/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Child ; Cognition ; Cohort Studies ; Environmental Exposure ; Europe ; *Exposome ; Female ; Humans ; Pregnancy ; }, abstract = {Epidemiological studies mostly focus on single environmental exposures. This study aims to systematically assess associations between a wide range of prenatal and childhood environmental exposures and cognition. The study sample included data of 1298 mother-child pairs, children were 6-11 years-old, from six European birth cohorts. We measured 87 exposures during pregnancy and 122 cross-sectionally during childhood, including air pollution, built environment, meteorology, natural spaces, traffic, noise, chemicals and life styles. The measured cognitive domains were fluid intelligence (Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices test, CPM), attention (Attention Network Test, ANT) and working memory (N-Back task). We used two statistical approaches to assess associations between exposure and child cognition: the exposome-wide association study (ExWAS) considering each exposure independently, and the deletion-substitution-addition algorithm (DSA) considering all exposures simultaneously to build a final multiexposure model. Based on this multiexposure model that included the exposure variables selected by ExWAS and DSA models, child organic food intake was associated with higher fluid intelligence (CPM) scores (beta = 1.18; 95% CI = 0.50, 1.87) and higher working memory (N-Back) scores (0.23; 0.05, 0.41), and child fast food intake (-1.25; -2.10, -0.40), house crowding (-0.39; -0.62, -0.16), and child environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) (-0.89; -1.42, -0.35), were all associated with lower CPM scores. Indoor PM2.5 exposure was associated with lower N-Back scores (-0.09; -0.16, -0.02). Additional associations in the unexpected direction were found: Higher prenatal mercury levels, maternal alcohol consumption and child higher perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) levels were associated with better cognitive performance; and higher green exposure during pregnancy with lower cognitive performance. This first comprehensive and systematic study of many prenatal and childhood environmental risk factors suggests that unfavourable child nutrition, family crowdedness and child indoor air pollution and ETS exposures adversely and cross-sectionally associate with cognitive function. Unexpected associations were also observed and maybe due to confounding and reverse causality.}, }
@article {pmid34077582, year = {2021}, author = {Pizzol, D and Tudor, F and Racalbuto, V and Bertoldo, A and Veronese, N and Smith, L}, title = {Systematic review and meta-analysis found that malnutrition was associated with poor cognitive development.}, journal = {Acta paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)}, volume = {110}, number = {10}, pages = {2704-2710}, doi = {10.1111/apa.15964}, pmid = {34077582}, issn = {1651-2227}, mesh = {Child ; Cognition ; Humans ; *Malnutrition/complications/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {AIM: Malnutrition is a major public health issue that has been associated with high susceptibility for impaired brain development and mental functioning. However, to date studies on this topic have not been collated and appraised. This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the association between malnutrition and cognitive development.<br><br>METHODS: We searched the MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL, Embase PsycINFO and Cochrane Library databases in English up to 8 December 2020. All studies reporting an association between nutritional status and cognitive development were included. p values of less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant and the results are reported as standardised mean differences (SMD), 95% confidence intervals (95%) and I[2] statistics.<br><br>RESULTS: We included 12 studies comprising 7,607 participants aged 1 to 12&#xa0;years. Children with malnutrition had worse scores than controls for the Wechsler Intelligence Scale (SMD -0.40; 95% CI -0.60 to -0.20; p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.0001; I[2] 77.1%), the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (SMD -3.75; 95% CI -5.68 to -1.83; p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.0001; I[2] 99.2%), visual processing (SMD -0.85; 95% CI -1.23 to -0.46; p 0.009; I[2] 11.0%) and short memory (SMD 0.85; 95% CI -1.21 to -0.49; p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.0001; I[2] 0%) tests.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Normal cognitive development requires access to good and safe nutrition.}, }
@article {pmid34077293, year = {2021}, author = {Walker, MA and Uribasterra, M and Asher, V and Getz, WM and Ryan, SJ and Ponciano, JM and Blackburn, JK}, title = {Anthrax Surveillance and the Limited Overlap Between Obligate Scavengers and Endemic Anthrax Zones in the United States.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {21}, number = {9}, pages = {675-684}, pmid = {34077293}, issn = {1557-7759}, support = {R01 GM117617/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Anthrax/epidemiology/veterinary ; *Bacillus anthracis ; Ecosystem ; *Falconiformes ; United States/epidemiology ; Zoonoses ; }, abstract = {Anthrax is a zoonosis caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis, with potential for high fatality rate, especially in herbivores. Upon host death, spores can enter the soil surrounding the carcass and be ingested by other animals feeding in the same location. Accordingly, surveillance to quickly identify and decontaminate anthrax carcasses is crucial to outbreak prevention. In endemic anthrax areas such as Texas and Africa, vultures are used as a surveillance tool for identifying presence and location of dead animals. However, many anthrax outbreaks in the United States have occurred in areas outside the ranges of both black and turkey vultures. Here, we used a longitudinal camera trap survey at carcass sites in southwestern Montana to investigate the utility of facultative avian scavengers on disease and carcass surveillance in a reemerging anthrax risk zone. From August 2016 to September 2018, camera traps at 11 carcass sites were triggered 1996 times by avian scavengers. While the majority were facultative avian scavengers such as corvids and eagles, our results suggest that facultative scavengers cannot replace vultures as a surveillance tool in this ecosystem due to their absence during the anthrax risk period (June to August), reduced search efficiency, or low flight patterns. We found that the conditions in Montana likely parallel systems elsewhere in the continental United States. Using ecological niche models of B. anthracis distribution overlaid with relative abundance maps of turkey vultures, we found that much of North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Nebraska, and Iowa have areas of anthrax risk, but low or absent turkey vulture populations. Without vultures in these areas, surveillance capacity is reduced, and it becomes more difficult to identify anthrax cases, meaning fewer carcasses are decontaminated, and consequently, outbreaks could become more frequent or severe.}, }
@article {pmid34074798, year = {2021}, author = {Garcia-Pelegrin, E and Schnell, AK and Wilkins, C and Clayton, NS}, title = {Exploring the perceptual inabilities of Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius) using magic effects.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {118}, number = {24}, pages = {}, pmid = {34074798}, issn = {1091-6490}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Animals ; Choice Behavior ; Female ; Hand ; Humans ; *Magic ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Perception/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {In recent years, scientists have begun to use magic effects to investigate the blind spots in our attention and perception [G. Kuhn, Experiencing the Impossible: The Science of Magic (2019); S. Macknik, S. Martinez-Conde, S. Blakeslee, Sleights of Mind: What the Neuroscience of Magic Reveals about Our Everyday Deceptions (2010)]. Recently, we suggested that similar techniques could be transferred to nonhuman animal observers and that such an endeavor would provide insight into the inherent commonalities and discrepancies in attention and perception in human and nonhuman animals [E. Garcia-Pelegrin, A. K. Schnell, C. Wilkins, N. S. Clayton, Science 369, 1424-1426 (2020)]. Here, we performed three different magic effects (palming, French drop, and fast pass) to a sample of six Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius). These magic effects were specifically chosen as they utilize different cues and expectations that mislead the spectator into thinking one object has or has not been transferred from one hand to the other. Results from palming and French drop experiments suggest that Eurasian jays have different expectations from humans when observing some of these effects. Specifically, Eurasian jays were not deceived by effects that required them to expect an object to move between hands when observing human hand manipulations. However, similar to humans, Eurasian jays were misled by magic effects that utilize fast movements as a deceptive action. This study investigates how another taxon perceives the magician's techniques of deception that commonly deceive humans.}, }
@article {pmid34073851, year = {2021}, author = {Horn, L and Zewald, JS and Bugnyar, T and Massen, JJM}, title = {Carrion Crows and Azure-Winged Magpies Show No Prosocial Tendencies When Tested in a Token Transfer Paradigm.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {11}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {34073851}, issn = {2076-2615}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {To study the evolution of humans' cooperative nature, researchers have recently sought comparisons with other species. Studies investigating corvids, for example, showed that carrion crows and azure-winged magpies delivered food to group members when tested in naturalistic or simple experimental paradigms. Here, we investigated whether we could replicate these positive findings when testing the same two species in a token transfer paradigm. After training the birds to exchange tokens with an experimenter for food rewards, we tested whether they would also transfer tokens to other birds, when they did not have the opportunity to exchange the tokens themselves. To control for the effects of motivation, and of social or stimulus enhancement, we tested each individual in three additional control conditions. We witnessed very few attempts and/or successful token transfers, and those few instances did not occur more frequently in the test condition than in the controls, which would suggest that the birds lack prosocial tendencies. Alternatively, we propose that this absence of prosociality may stem from the artificial nature and cognitive complexity of the token transfer task. Consequently, our findings highlight the strong impact of methodology on animals' capability to exhibit prosocial tendencies and stress the importance of comparing multiple experimental paradigms.}, }
@article {pmid34068802, year = {2021}, author = {Doerr, EM and Carretti, B and Toffalini, E and Lanfranchi, S and Meneghetti, C}, title = {Developmental Trajectories in Spatial Visualization and Mental Rotation in Individuals with Down Syndrome.}, journal = {Brain sciences}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, pmid = {34068802}, issn = {2076-3425}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The analysis of developmental trajectories of visuospatial abilities in individuals with Down Syndrome (DS) remains an unexplored field of investigation to examine in depth. The study aimed to fill such a gap by examining changes in two visuospatial abilities: spatial visualization (the ability to manage spatial stimuli) and mental rotation (the ability to rotate spatial stimuli).<br><br>METHOD: Eighty-seven participants with DS, aged between 7 and 53 years (forty-seven males and forty females), completed spatial visualization and mental rotation tasks. Changes in these two abilities were analyzed in relation to chronological age and developmental level, the latter derived from Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: Chronological age was linearly associated with spatial visualization performance, whereas mental rotation performance increased until 14 years of age and then decreased. Developmental level was linearly associated with increased performance in spatial visualization, the trend in mental rotation was segmented with an increase after 5 years of age. Furthermore, developmental trajectories in mental rotation depended on the rotation degree.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Chronological age explains a modest quote of variance. Developmental level better describes changes in spatial visualization and mental rotation of individuals with DS.}, }
@article {pmid34062633, year = {2021}, author = {Jasim, M and Brindha, T}, title = {Spinal cord segmentation and injury detection using a Crow Search-Rider optimization algorithm.}, journal = {Biomedizinische Technik. Biomedical engineering}, volume = {66}, number = {3}, pages = {293-304}, doi = {10.1515/bmt-2019-0180}, pmid = {34062633}, issn = {1862-278X}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Animals ; Crows ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/methods ; Neural Networks, Computer ; Spinal Cord/*physiology ; Spinal Cord Injuries/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {The damage in the spinal cord due to vertebral fractures may result in loss of sensation and muscle function either permanently or temporarily. The neurological condition of the patient can be improved only with the early detection and the treatment of the injury in the spinal cord. This paper proposes a spinal cord segmentation and injury detection system based on the proposed Crow search-Rider Optimization-based DCNN (CS-ROA DCNN) method, which can detect the injury in the spinal cord in an effective manner. Initially, the segmentation of the CT image of the spinal cord is performed using the adaptive thresholding method, followed by which the localization of the disc is performed using the Sparse FCM clustering algorithm (Sparse-FCM). The localized discs are subjected to a feature extraction process, where the features necessary for the classification process are extracted. The classification process is done using DCNN trained using the proposed CS-ROA, which is the integration of the Crow Search Algorithm (CSA) and Rider Optimization Algorithm (ROA). The experimentation is performed using the evaluation metrics, such as accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity. The proposed method achieved the high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 0.874, 0.8961, and 0.8828, respectively that shows the effectiveness of the proposed CS-ROA DCNN method in spinal cord injury detection.}, }
@article {pmid34061249, year = {2021}, author = {Layton-Matthews, K and Griesser, M and Coste, CFD and Ozgul, A}, title = {Forest management affects seasonal source-sink dynamics in a territorial, group-living bird.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {196}, number = {2}, pages = {399-412}, pmid = {34061249}, issn = {1432-1939}, support = {PPOOP3_123520; PPOOP3_123520//Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur F&#xf6;rderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung (CH)/ ; 31BD30_172465//ERA-NET BiodivERsA/ ; 665778//Narodowe Centrum Nauki/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; *Ecosystem ; Forestry ; Forests ; Humans ; *Passeriformes ; Population Dynamics ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {The persistence of wildlife populations is under threat as a consequence of human activities, which are degrading natural ecosystems. Commercial forestry is the greatest threat to biodiversity in boreal forests. Forestry practices have degraded most available habitat, threatening the persistence of natural populations. Understanding population responses is, therefore, critical for their conservation. Population viability analyses are effective tools to predict population persistence under forestry management. However, quantifying the mechanisms driving population responses is complex as population dynamics vary temporally and spatially. Metapopulation dynamics are governed by local dynamics and spatial factors, potentially mediating the impacts of forestry e.g., through dispersal. Here, we performed a seasonal, spatially explicit population viability analysis, using long-term data from a group-living territorial bird (Siberian jay, Perisoreus infaustus). We quantified the effects of forest management on metapopulation dynamics, via forest type-specific demography and spatially explicit dispersal, and how forestry impacted the stability of metapopulation dynamics. Forestry reduced metapopulation growth and stability, through negative effects on reproduction and survival. Territories in higher quality natural forest contributed more to metapopulation dynamics than managed forests, largely through demographic processes rather than dispersal. Metapopulation dynamics in managed forest were also less resilient to disturbances and consequently, may be more vulnerable to environmental change. Seasonal differences in source-sink dynamics observed in managed forest, but not natural forests, were caused by associated seasonal differences in dispersal. As shown here, capturing seasonal source-sink dynamics allows us to predict population persistence under human disturbance and to provide targeted conservation recommendations.}, }
@article {pmid34049884, year = {2021}, author = {Cunha, FCR and Griesser, M}, title = {Who do you trust? Wild birds use social knowledge to avoid being deceived.}, journal = {Science advances}, volume = {7}, number = {22}, pages = {}, pmid = {34049884}, issn = {2375-2548}, abstract = {Many species give deceptive warning calls, enabled by the high risk of ignoring them. In Siberian jays, a territorial, group-living bird, individuals give warning calls toward perched predators and mob them. However, intruding neighbors can emit these warning calls in the absence of predators to access food, but breeders often ignore these calls. Playback field experiments show that breeders flee sooner and return later after warning calls of former group members than those of neighbors or unknown individuals. Thus, breeders respond appropriately only to warning calls of previous cooperation partners. This mechanism facilitates the evolution and maintenance of communication vulnerable to deceptive signaling. This conclusion also applies to human language because of its cooperative nature and thus, its vulnerability to deception.}, }
@article {pmid34043918, year = {2022}, author = {Fochesatto, CF and Gaya, ACA and Cristi-Montero, C and Brand, C and Dias, AF and Ruschel Bandeira, D and Marasca, AR and Gaya, AR}, title = {Association between physical fitness components and fluid intelligence according to body mass index in schoolchildren.}, journal = {Applied neuropsychology. Child}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {640-646}, doi = {10.1080/21622965.2021.1924718}, pmid = {34043918}, issn = {2162-2973}, mesh = {Body Mass Index ; Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; *Overweight/epidemiology/psychology ; *Pediatric Obesity/epidemiology/psychology ; Physical Fitness/psychology ; }, abstract = {Physical fitness is considered a protective factor for children's general health and has been related to enhanced cognitive functioning. However, it appears that cognition could be affected in children with overweight or obesity. The present study aimed to determine the relationship between physical fitness components and fluid intelligence in normal-weight and overweight/obese children. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 317 schoolchildren participated (165 boys, 52.05%), aged between six and 11 years old (1st to 5th grade), belonging to a public school in the south of Brazil. Psychologists evaluated fluid intelligence through the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrix Test. The physical fitness evaluation followed the procedures of the "Brazil Sports Project". Weight and height were measured to determine body mass index and generalized linear regression analyses were used with a 95% confidence interval. Our results showed that agility was inversely associated with fluid intelligence only in the overweight/obese group (β = -1.506; p = 0.01). Cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness were not associated with fluid intelligence. In conclusion, agility was the only physical fitness component related to fluid intelligence, and this relationship was found exclusively in overweight/obese schoolchildren.}, }
@article {pmid34043664, year = {2021}, author = {Joseph, J and Sankar D, H and Nambiar, D}, title = {Empanelment of health care facilities under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) in India.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {16}, number = {5}, pages = {e0251814}, pmid = {34043664}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Cross-Sectional Studies ; Health Facilities/*economics/supply &amp; distribution ; Health Services/*economics/supply &amp; distribution ; Health Services Accessibility/organization &amp; administration ; Hospitals, Private/organization &amp; administration ; Hospitals, Public/organization &amp; administration ; Humans ; India ; Public Health/*methods ; Universal Health Insurance/*organization &amp; administration ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: India's Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) is the world's largest health assurance scheme providing health cover of 500,000 INR (about USD 6,800) per family per year. It provides financial support for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization expenses to about 500 million of India's poorest households through various insurance models with care delivered by public and private empanelled providers. This study undertook to describe the provider empanelment of PM-JAY, a key element of its functioning and determinant of its impact.<br><br>METHODS: We carried out secondary analysis of cross-sectional administrative program data publicly available in PM-JAY portal for 30 Indian states and 06 UTs. We analysed the state wise distribution, type and sector of empanelled hospitals and services offered through PM-JAY scheme across all the states and UTs.<br><br>RESULTS: We found that out of the total facilities empanelled (N = 20,257) under the scheme in 2020, more than half (N = 11,367, 56%) were in the public sector, while 8,157 (40%) facilities were private for profit, and 733 (4%) were private not for profit entities. State wise distribution of hospitals showed that five states (Karnataka (N = 2,996, 14.9%), Gujarat (N = 2,672, 13.3%), Uttar Pradesh (N = 2,627, 13%), Tamil Nadu (N = 2315, 11.5%) and Rajasthan (N = 2,093 facilities, 10.4%) contributed to more than 60% of empanelled PMJAY facilities: We also observed that 40% of facilities were offering between two and five specialties while 14% of empanelled hospitals provided 21-24 specialties.<br><br>CONCLUSION: A majority of the hospital empanelled under the scheme are in states with previous experience of implementing publicly funded health insurance schemes, with the exception of Uttar Pradesh. Reasons underlying these patterns of empanelment as well as the impact of empanelment on service access, utilisation, population health and financial risk protection warrant further study. While the inclusion and regulation of the private sector is a goal that may be served by empanelment, the role of public sector remains critical, particularly in underserved areas of India.}, }
@article {pmid34041776, year = {2022}, author = {Langener, AM and Kramer, AW and van den Bos, W and Huizenga, HM}, title = {A shortened version of Raven's standard progressive matrices for children and adolescents.}, journal = {The British journal of developmental psychology}, volume = {40}, number = {1}, pages = {35-45}, pmid = {34041776}, issn = {2044-835X}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {Numerous developmental studies assess general cognitive ability, not as the primary variable of interest, but rather as a background variable. Raven's Progressive Matrices is an easy to administer non-verbal test that is widely used to measure general cognitive ability. However, the relatively long administration time (up to 45 min) is still a drawback for developmental studies as it often leaves little time to assess the primary variable of interest. Therefore, we used a machine learning approach - regularized regression in combination with cross-validation - to develop a short 15-item version. We did so for two age groups, namely 9 to 12 years and 13 to 16 years. The short versions predicted the scores on the standard full 60-item versions to a very high degree r = 0.89 (9-12 years) and r = 0.93 (13-16 years). We, therefore, recommend using the short version to measure general cognitive ability as a background variable in developmental studies.}, }
@article {pmid34025579, year = {2021}, author = {Bianciardi, E and Raimondi, G and Samela, T and Innamorati, M and Contini, LM and Procenesi, L and Fabbricatore, M and Imperatori, C and Gentileschi, P}, title = {Neurocognitive and Psychopathological Predictors of Weight Loss After Bariatric Surgery: A 4-Year Follow-Up Study.}, journal = {Frontiers in endocrinology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {662252}, pmid = {34025579}, issn = {1664-2392}, mesh = {Adult ; *Bariatric Surgery ; Cognitive Dysfunction/psychology/surgery ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Obesity/*psychology/*surgery ; Psychopathology ; *Weight Loss ; }, abstract = {Twenty to thirty percent of patients experience weight regain at mid and long-term follow-up. Impaired cognitive functions are prevalent in people suffering from obesity and in those with binge eating disorder, thereby, affecting the weight-loss outcomes. The aim of our study was to investigate neurocognitive and psychopathological predictors of surgical efficacy in terms of percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) at follow-up intervals of one year and 4-year. Psychosocial evaluation was completed in a sample of 78 bariatric surgery candidates and included psychometric instruments and a cognitive battery of neuropsychological tests. A schedule of 1-year and 4-year follow-ups was implemented. Wisconsin Sorting Card Test total correct responses, scores on the Raven's Progressive Matrices Test, and age predicted %EWL at, both, early and long-term periods after surgery while the severity of pre-operative binge eating (BED) symptoms were associated with lower %EWL only four years after the operation. Due to the role of pre-operative BED in weight loss maintenance, the affected patients are at risk of suboptimal response requiring ongoing clinical monitoring, and psychological and pharmacological interventions when needed. As a result of our findings and in keeping with the latest guidelines we encourage neuropsychological assessment of bariatric surgery candidates. This data substantiated the rationale of providing rehabilitative interventions tailored to cognitive domains and time specific to the goal of supporting patients in their post-surgical course.}, }
@article {pmid34013520, year = {2021}, author = {Fielding, MW and Buettel, JC and Brook, BW and Stojanovic, D and Yates, LA}, title = {Roadkill islands: Carnivore extinction shifts seasonal use of roadside carrion by generalist avian scavenger.}, journal = {The Journal of animal ecology}, volume = {90}, number = {10}, pages = {2268-2276}, doi = {10.1111/1365-2656.13532}, pmid = {34013520}, issn = {1365-2656}, mesh = {Animals ; Bayes Theorem ; *Carnivora ; *Ecosystem ; Food Chain ; Islands ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {Global road networks facilitate habitat modification and are integral to human expansion. Many animals, particularly scavengers, use roads as they provide a reliable source of food, such as carrion left after vehicle collisions. Tasmania is often cited as the 'roadkill capital of Australia', with the isolated offshore islands in the Bass Strait experiencing similar, if not higher, levels of roadkill. However, native mammalian predators on the islands are extirpated, meaning the remaining scavengers are likely to experience lower interference competition. In this study, we used a naturally occurring experiment to examine how the loss of mammalian carnivores within a community impacts roadside foraging behaviour by avian scavengers. We monitored the locations of roadkill and forest ravens Corvus tasmanicus, an abundant scavenger species, on eight road transects across the Tasmanian mainland (high scavenging competition) and the Bass Strait islands (low scavenging competition). We represented raven observations as one-dimensional point patterns, using hierarchical Bayesian models to investigate the dependence of raven spatial intensity on habitat, season, distance to roadkill and route location. We found that roadkill carcasses were a strong predictor of raven presence along road networks. The effect of roadkill was amplified on roads on the Bass Strait islands, where roadside carrion was a predictor of raven presence across the entire year. In contrast, ravens were more often associated with roadkill on Tasmanian mainland roads in the autumn, when other resources were low. This suggests that in the absence of competing mammalian scavengers, ravens choose to feed on roadside carrion throughout the year, even in seasons when other resources are available. This lack of competition could be disproportionately benefiting forest ravens, leading to augmented raven populations and changes to the vertebrate community structure. Our study provides evidence that scavengers modify their behaviour in response to reduced scavenger species diversity, potentially triggering trophic shifts and highlighting the importance of conserving or reintroducing carnivores within ecosystems.}, }
@article {pmid34010354, year = {2021}, author = {Mantey, AA and Annan, RA and Lutterodt, HE and Twumasi, P}, title = {Iron status predicts cognitive test performance of primary school children from Kumasi, Ghana.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {16}, number = {5}, pages = {e0251335}, pmid = {34010354}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Anemia, Iron-Deficiency/blood/epidemiology/psychology ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Diet ; Female ; Ferritins/blood ; Ghana/epidemiology ; Hemoglobins/metabolism ; Humans ; Iron/*blood ; Iron Deficiencies ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Nutritional Status ; Schools ; Social Class ; Urban Population ; Zinc/blood ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Good nutritional status of school-aged children is crucial in achieving improved cognition. The objective of this study was to assess the relationship between nutritional status and cognition of school-aged children in the Kumasi metropolis, Ghana.<br><br>METHODS: 389 children were selected from ten government-owned schools. Socio-demographic and anthropometric data were collected. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for nutrients levels. Dietary intakes were assessed using food frequency questionnaire and previous day's nutrients intake. Cognition test was performed using the Ravens Colored Progressive Matrix (RCPM).<br><br>RESULTS: Mean age of participants was 8.9&#xb1;1.4 years, mean RCPM score was 17.9&#xb1;5.4. More girls scored RCPM below the 40th percentile (45.5%) than boys (33.7%), while mother's level of education significantly associated with RCPM percentiles of the children (p = 0.037). Four dietary patterns were generated from food frequency data, and scores of the second pattern, depicting vegetables, non-fruits, bread and cereals, showed a weak negative correlation (r = -0.132, p = 0.026) with previous day's dietary zinc intake. Cognitive status did not vary by anthropometric and dietary patterns. More anemic (54.4%) than non-anemic (33.3%) children were below the 40th RCPM percentile. Mean previous day's intake for folate (p<0.001), vitamin B6 (p = 0.018), iron (p<0.001), and zinc (p = 0.001) differed significantly between the cognitive test score percentiles of the children. Spearman rank correlation showed weak positive associations between RCPM score and hemoglobin (r = 0.246, p = 0.003) and serum ferritin (r = 0.176, p = 0.036). Binary regression analysis showed anemic children (aOR = 0.4; 95%CI = 0.2-0.8, p = 0.014), compared with non-anemic had decreased odds, while boys, compared with girls had increased odds (aOR = 2.0 95%CI = 1.0-4.0, p = 0.035) for scoring above the 50th RCPM percentile.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Iron status, especially hemoglobin levels, correlated with the cognitive performance of school-aged children in the metropolis. Thus nutritional strategies aimed at reducing iron deficiency anemia are needed.}, }
@article {pmid34010302, year = {2021}, author = {Bladon, AJ and Donald, PF and Collar, NJ and Denge, J and Dadacha, G and Wondafrash, M and Green, RE}, title = {Climatic change and extinction risk of two globally threatened Ethiopian endemic bird species.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {16}, number = {5}, pages = {e0249633}, pmid = {34010302}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animal Distribution ; Animals ; *Climate Change ; Crows/*physiology ; Ecosystem ; Endangered Species/*trends ; Ethiopia ; Models, Statistical ; Swallows/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Climate change is having profound effects on the distributions of species globally. Trait-based assessments predict that specialist and range-restricted species are among those most likely to be at risk of extinction from such changes. Understanding individual species' responses to climate change is therefore critical for informing conservation planning. We use an established Species Distribution Modelling (SDM) protocol to describe the curious range-restriction of the globally threatened White-tailed Swallow (Hirundo megaensis) to a small area in southern Ethiopia. We find that, across a range of modelling approaches, the distribution of this species is well described by two climatic variables, maximum temperature and dry season precipitation. These same two variables have been previously found to limit the distribution of the unrelated but closely sympatric Ethiopian Bush-crow (Zavattariornis stresemanni). We project the future climatic suitability for both species under a range of climate scenarios and modelling approaches. Both species are at severe risk of extinction within the next half century, as the climate in 68-84% (for the swallow) and 90-100% (for the bush-crow) of their current ranges is predicted to become unsuitable. Intensive conservation measures, such as assisted migration and captive-breeding, may be the only options available to safeguard these two species. Their projected disappearance in the wild offers an opportunity to test the reliability of SDMs for predicting the fate of wild species. Monitoring future changes in the distribution and abundance of the bush-crow is particularly tractable because its nests are conspicuous and visible over large distances.}, }
@article {pmid33999415, year = {2021}, author = {Hancock, ZB and Lehmberg, ES and Bradburd, GS}, title = {Neo-darwinism still haunts evolutionary theory: A modern perspective on Charlesworth, Lande, and Slatkin (1982).}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {75}, number = {6}, pages = {1244-1255}, pmid = {33999415}, issn = {1558-5646}, support = {R35 GM137919/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Biology/*history ; History, 20th Century ; Models, Biological ; Phylogeny ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {The Modern Synthesis (or "Neo-Darwinism"), which arose out of the reconciliation of Darwin's theory of natural selection and Mendel's research on genetics, remains the foundation of evolutionary theory. However, since its inception, it has been a lightning rod for criticism, which has ranged from minor quibbles to complete dismissal. Among the most famous of the critics was Stephen Jay Gould, who, in 1980, proclaimed that the Modern Synthesis was "effectively dead." Gould and others claimed that the action of natural selection on random mutations was insufficient on its own to explain patterns of macroevolutionary diversity and divergence, and that new processes were required to explain findings from the fossil record. In 1982, Charlesworth, Lande, and Slatkin published a response to this critique in Evolution, in which they argued that Neo-Darwinism was indeed sufficient to explain macroevolutionary patterns. In this Perspective for the 75th Anniversary of the Society for the Study of Evolution, we review Charlesworth et al. in its historical context and provide modern support for their arguments. We emphasize the importance of microevolutionary processes in the study of macroevolutionary patterns. Ultimately, we conclude that punctuated equilibrium did not represent a major revolution in evolutionary biology - although debate on this point stimulated significant research and furthered the field - and that Neo-Darwinism is alive and well.}, }
@article {pmid33995180, year = {2021}, author = {Strößner, C}, title = {Default Inheritance in Modified Statements: Bias or Inference?.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {626023}, pmid = {33995180}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {It is a fact that human subjects rate sentences about typical properties such as "Ravens are black" as very likely to be true. In comparison, modified sentences such as "Feathered ravens are black" receive lower ratings, especially if the modifier is atypical for the noun, as in "Jungle ravens are black". This is called the modifier effect. However, the likelihood of the unmodified statement influences the perceived likelihood of the modified statement: the higher the rated likelihood of the unmodified sentence, the higher the rated likelihood of the modified one. That means the modifier effect does not fully block default inheritance of typical properties from nouns to modified nouns. This paper discusses this inheritance effect. In particular, I ask whether it is the direct result of composing concepts from nouns, that is, a bias toward "black" when processing "raven". I report a series of experiments in which I find no evidence for a direct inheritance from composition. This supports the view that default inheritance is rather an inference than a bias.}, }
@article {pmid33989896, year = {2021}, author = {Sharma, S and Singh, G and Sharma, M}, title = {A comprehensive review and analysis of supervised-learning and soft computing techniques for stress diagnosis in humans.}, journal = {Computers in biology and medicine}, volume = {134}, number = {}, pages = {104450}, doi = {10.1016/j.compbiomed.2021.104450}, pmid = {33989896}, issn = {1879-0534}, mesh = {Algorithms ; *Artificial Intelligence ; Bayes Theorem ; Fuzzy Logic ; Humans ; *Neural Networks, Computer ; }, abstract = {Stress is the most prevailing and global psychological condition that inevitably disrupts the mood and behavior of individuals. Chronic stress may gravely affect the physical, mental, and social behavior of victims and consequently induce myriad critical human disorders. Herein, a review has been presented where supervised learning (SL) and soft computing (SC) techniques used in stress diagnosis have been meticulously investigated to highlight the contributions, strengths, and challenges faced in the implementation of these methods in stress diagnostic models. A three-tier review strategy comprising of manuscript selection, data synthesis, and data analysis was adopted. The issues in SL strategies and the potential possibility of using hybrid techniques in stress diagnosis have been intensively investigated. The strengths and weaknesses of different SL (Bayesian classifier, random forest, support vector machine, and nearest neighbours) and SC (fuzzy logic, nature-inspired, and deep learning) techniques have been presented to obtain clear insights into these optimization strategies. The effects of social, behavioral, and biological stresses have been highlighted. The psychological, biological, and behavioral responses to stress have also been briefly elucidated. The findings of the study confirmed that different types of data/signals (related to skin temperature, electro-dermal activity, blood circulation, heart rate, facial expressions, etc.) have been used in stress diagnosis. Moreover, there is a potential scope for using distinct nature-inspired computing techniques (Genetic Algorithm, Particle Swarm Optimization, Ant Colony Optimization, Whale Optimization Algorithm, Butterfly Optimization, Harris Hawks Optimizer, and Crow Search Algorithm) and deep learning techniques (Deep-Belief Network, Convolutional-Neural Network, and Recurrent-Neural Network) on multimodal data compiled using behavioral testing, electroencephalogram signals, finger temperature, respiration rate, pupil diameter, galvanic-skin-response, and blood pressure. Likewise, there is a wider scope to investigate the use of SL and SC techniques in stress diagnosis using distinct dimensions such as sentiment analysis, speech recognition, handwriting recognition, and facial expressions. Finally, a hybrid model based on distinct computational methods influenced by both SL and SC techniques, adaption, parameter tuning, and the use of chaos, levy, and Gaussian distribution may address exploration and exploitation issues. However, factors such as real-time data collection, bias, integrity, multi-dimensional data, and data privacy make it challenging to design precise and innovative stress diagnostic systems based on artificial intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid33984600, year = {2021}, author = {Garcia-Barrios, J and Drysdale, M and Ratelle, M and Gaudreau, &#xc9; and LeBlanc, A and Gamberg, M and Laird, BD}, title = {Biomarkers of poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Sub-Arctic and Arctic communities in Canada.}, journal = {International journal of hygiene and environmental health}, volume = {235}, number = {}, pages = {113754}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijheh.2021.113754}, pmid = {33984600}, issn = {1618-131X}, mesh = {*Alkanesulfonic Acids ; Biological Monitoring ; Biomarkers ; Canada ; *Environmental Pollutants ; Female ; *Fluorocarbons/analysis ; Humans ; Male ; }, abstract = {Polyfluoroalkyl substances and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a family of anthropogenic chemicals that are used in food packaging, waterproof clothing, and firefighting foams for their water and oil resistant properties. Though levels of some PFAS appear to be decreasing in Canada's south, environmental levels have been increasing in the Arctic due to long-range transport. However, the implications of this on human exposures in sub-Arctic and Arctic populations in Canada have yet to be established. To address this data gap, human biomonitoring research was completed in Old Crow, Yukon, and the Dehcho region, Northwest Territories. Blood samples were collected from adults residing in seven northern First Nations and were analyzed by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. A total of nine PFAS were quantified: perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulphonic acid (PFOS), perfluorohexane sulphonic acid (PFHxS), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA), and perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUdA), perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA), perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), and perfluorobutane sulphonic acid (PFBS). In the Dehcho (n = 124), five PFAS had a detection rate greater than 50% including PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS, PFNA, and PFDA. In addition to these PFAS, PFUdA was also detected in at least half of the samples collected in Old Crow (n = 54). Generally, male participants had higher concentrations of PFAS compared to female participants, and PFAS concentrations tended to increase with age. For most PFAS, Old Crow and Dehcho levels were similar or lower to those measured in the general Canadian population (as measured through the Canadian Health Measures Survey or CHMS) and other First Nations populations in Canada (as measured through the First Nations Biomonitoring Initiative or FNBI). The key exception to this was for PFNA which, relative to the CHMS (0.51 μg/L), was approximately 1.8 times higher in Old Crow (0.94 μg/L) and 2.8 times higher in Dehcho (1.42 μg/L) than observed in the general Canadian population. This project provides baseline PFAS levels for participating communities, improving understanding of human exposures to PFAS in Canada. Future research should investigate site-specific PFNA exposure sources and monitor temporal trends in these regions.}, }
@article {pmid33976306, year = {2021}, author = {Li, G and Chen, Y and Le, TM and Wang, W and Tang, X and Li, CR}, title = {Neural correlates of individual variation in two-back working memory and the relationship with fluid intelligence.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {9980}, pmid = {33976306}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {UL1 TR001863/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Brain/diagnostic imaging/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/physiology ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Reaction Time/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Working memory has been examined extensively using the N-back task. However, less is known about the neural bases underlying individual variation in the accuracy rate (AR) and reaction time (RT) as metrics of N-back performance. Whereas AR indexes the overall performance, RT may more specifically reflect the efficiency in updating target identify. Further, studies have associated fluid intelligence (Gf) with working memory, but the cerebral correlates shared between Gf and N-back performance remain unclear. We addressed these issues using the Human Connectome Project dataset. We quantified the differences in AR (critical success index or CSI) and RT between 2- and 0-backs (CSI2-0 and RT2-0) and identified the neural correlates of individual variation in CSI2-0, RT2-0, and Gf, as indexed by the number of correct items scored in the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) test. The results showed that CSI2-0 and RT2-0 were negatively correlated, suggesting that a prolonged response time did not facilitate accuracy. At voxel p < 0.05, FWE-corrected, the pre-supplementary motor area (preSMA), bilateral frontoparietal cortex (biFPC) and right anterior insula (rAI) showed activities in negative correlation with CSI2-0 and positive correlation with RT2-0. In contrast, a cluster in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) bordering the SMA showed activities in positive correlation with CSI2-0 and negative correlation with RT2-0. Further, path analyses showed a significant fit of the model dACC → RT2-0 → CSI2-0, suggesting a critical role of target switching in determining performance accuracy. Individual variations in RT2-0 and Gf were positively correlated, although the effect size was small (f[2] = 0.0246). RT2-0 and Gf shared activities both in positive correlation with the preSMA, biFPC, rAI, and dorsal precuneus. These results together suggest inter-related neural substrates of individual variation in N-back performance and highlight a complex relationship in the neural processes supporting 2-back and RSPM performance.}, }
@article {pmid33957480, year = {2021}, author = {Park, HY and Seo, E and Park, KM and Koo, SJ and Lee, E and An, SK}, title = {Shame and guilt in youth at ultra-high risk for psychosis.}, journal = {Comprehensive psychiatry}, volume = {108}, number = {}, pages = {152241}, doi = {10.1016/j.comppsych.2021.152241}, pmid = {33957480}, issn = {1532-8384}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Emotions ; Empathy ; *Guilt ; Humans ; *Psychotic Disorders/diagnosis ; Shame ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Feelings of shame and guilt have rarely been investigated in people at ultra-high risk (UHR) for psychosis. We aimed to outline differences in shame and guilt in relation to empathy and theory of mind (ToM) in young people, particularly those at UHR for psychosis.<br><br>METHODS: First, 166 young healthy controls were assessed for their proneness to shame and guilt using the Test of Self-Conscious Affect, empathy and its four subdomains (perspective taking, fantasy, empathic concern, and personal distress) using the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI), ToM using the ToM picture stories task, and neurocognitive performance using the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM). Next, we evaluated shame and guilt in 24 UHR individuals comparing them to 24 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Finally, we explored relationships for shame and guilt in relation to empathy and ToM in the UHR individuals.<br><br>RESULTS: In the healthy youth, a regression analysis showed fantasy and personal distress in IRI to be significant determinants of shame, while perspective taking and empathic concern in IRI, ToM, and SPM were independent predictors of guilt. Meanwhile, compared to the healthy controls, individuals with UHR exhibited higher levels of shame, which was associated with increased personal distress.<br><br>DISCUSSION: Our findings showed that four subdomains of empathy, ToM, and neurocognition were differentially associated with shame and guilt in healthy young people. Given the correlation between excessive feelings of shame and high levels of the personal distress dimension of empathy in UHR for psychosis, redressing the tendency to focus on self-oriented negative emotions upon witnessing distress of others could possibly reduce self-blame or self-stigma of help-seeking individuals.}, }
@article {pmid33944656, year = {2020}, author = {Norman, S}, title = {Lifting effect of onabotulinumtoxinA in patients treated for glabellar and crow's feet rhytids.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology}, volume = {22}, number = {6-8}, pages = {232-238}, doi = {10.1080/14764172.2021.1918341}, pmid = {33944656}, issn = {1476-4180}, mesh = {Adult ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A/therapeutic use ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Female ; Humans ; Lifting ; Middle Aged ; *Neuromuscular Agents/therapeutic use ; Retrospective Studies ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {OnabotulinumtoxinA injection can enhance the appearance of the eyes. This study evaluated the lifting effect of onabotulinumtoxinA treatment of the eye area. A retrospective, single-center audit of patients treated for glabellar and crow's feet rhytids was undertaken. Standardized photographs taken before and 2-4 weeks after treatment were assessed. Computer-based measurements were made of the height of the visible superior tarsal plate (STP) and brow (measured from upper eyelid lash edge to eyebrow base) at rest and maximum frown. One hundred patients were included (96 females; mean age: 46.2 ± 8.8 years). Mean onabotulinumtoxinA doses were 14.95 ± 0.61 units (glabella) and 17.83 ± 2.74 units (crow's feet). There were significant post-treatment increases in mean STP height at rest (left side, 0.76 ± 0.99 mm, p = .02; right side, 0.79 ± 0.94 mm, p = .01) and maximum frown (left, 2.25 ± 1.52 mm, p < .0001; right, 1.87 ± 1.34 mm, p < .0001), and mean brow height at rest (left side, 1.54 ± 1.49 mm, p = .0006; right side, 1.47 ± 1.84 mm, p = .0009) and maximum frown (left, 4.37 ± 2.29 mm, p < .0001; right, 4.16 ± 1.88 mm, p < .0001). OnabotulinumtoxinA injection is effective for elevating brow position and increasing STP show.}, }
@article {pmid33940610, year = {2021}, author = {Rassi, MS and Al-Mefty, O}, title = {Surgical Treatment of Bilateral Optic Nerve Sheath Meningioma: 2-Dimensional Operative Video.}, journal = {Operative neurosurgery (Hagerstown, Md.)}, volume = {20}, number = {6}, pages = {E418-E419}, doi = {10.1093/ons/opab052}, pmid = {33940610}, issn = {2332-4260}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; *Meningioma/diagnostic imaging/radiotherapy/surgery ; Optic Nerve/diagnostic imaging/surgery ; *Optic Nerve Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging/radiotherapy/surgery ; Treatment Outcome ; Vision Disorders/etiology ; }, abstract = {Even though intracranial meningiomas commonly invade the optic canals, true optic nerve sheath meningiomas are extremely rare. They are insidious lesions that frequently grow in 4 stages, leading to progressive visual loss.1-4 Frequently, management includes observation for asymptomatic patients, and fractioned stereotactic radiotherapy with progressive visual loss.1,3 However, surgery is avoided due to the risk of perioperative visual loss.2-4 However, many of these cases present in the early stage of tumor growth, where an arachnoidal plane is still present, and vision can be saved by microsurgical tumor resection.2 Here we present the case of a 33-yr-old female presenting with a 3-wk history of blurred vision. Neuroimaging depicted an enhancing lesion along both optic nerves consistent with bilateral optic nerve sheath meningioma. Neuroophthalmological examination showed inferior cut of visual field bilaterally, more extensive on the left eye. Acuity was 20/20 on both eyes. Microsurgical resection of the tumor was performed through left supraorbital craniotomy, with the goal of eliminating intracranial extension and stabilizing visual function.5 The optic canal was unroofed with diamond bit drill under copious irrigation. A remarkable improvement of her visual field was observed with maintenance of acuity at 20/20 on follow-up. As the patient is attempting pregnancy, she is closely monitored without radiation. Surgery can be offered as a primary treatment of optic nerve sheath meningiomas, especially in early stages, with likely preservation and, in some cases, improvement of visual function.6 The patient consented to the procedure and the use of image. Images at 1:46 and 3:48 reprinted from Al-Mefty O, Operative Atlas of Meningiomas. 1998: Raven Press; Philadelphia, PA, with permission from LWW. Image at 2:57 reprinted from Rassi et al2; © Anil Can, 2018, used with permission. Image at 9:27 in public domain/age.}, }
@article {pmid33937549, year = {2021}, author = {Mori, S and Osawa, A and Maeshima, S and Sakurai, T and Ozaki, K and Kondo, I and Saitoh, E}, title = {Possibility of Using Quantitative Assessment with the Cube Copying Test for Evaluation of Visuo-spatial Function in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease.}, journal = {Progress in rehabilitation medicine}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {20210021}, pmid = {33937549}, issn = {2432-1354}, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical usefulness of the Cube Copying Test (CCT) for quantitative assessment of visuo-spatial function in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD).<br><br>METHODS: The CCT, Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM), and other neuropsychological tests were administered to 152 AD outpatients. For the quantitative assessment of CCT, we scored the points of connection (POC) and the number of plane-drawing errors (PDE) and categorized the pattern classification (PAC). We also measured Functional Assessment Staging (FAST) to assess the severity of AD. The relationships among CCT, RCPM, and FAST were then analyzed.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean POC and PDE scores were 2.7 and 3.6, respectively, and the median PAC score was 6.0. PDE and PAC showed a linear relationship, but POC and PDE, and POC and PAC did not. Each component of CCT showed a significant correlation with RCPM scores. PDE and PAC had closer correlations with RCPM scores than POC did. The PDE and PAC results were significantly different among most of the FAST stages.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Quantitative assessment using CCT may be effective for the quick determination of the visuo-spatial function in AD patients.}, }
@article {pmid33935888, year = {2021}, author = {Parishar, P and Mohapatra, AN and Iyengar, S}, title = {Investigating Behavioral Responses to Mirrors and the Mark Test in Adult Male Zebra Finches and House Crows.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {637850}, pmid = {33935888}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Earlier evidence suggests that besides humans, some species of mammals and birds demonstrate visual self-recognition, assessed by the controversial "mark" test. Whereas, there are high levels of inter-individual differences amongst a single species, some species such as macaques and pigeons which do not spontaneously demonstrate mirror self-recognition (MSR) can be trained to do so. We were surprised to discover that despite being widely used as a model system for avian research, the performance of zebra finches (Taenopygia guttata) on the mark test had not been studied earlier. Additionally, we studied the behavioral responses of another species of passerine songbirds (Indian house crows; Corvus splendens) to a mirror and the MSR mark test. Although a small number of adult male zebra finches appeared to display heightened responses toward the mark while observing their reflections, we could not rule out the possibility that these were a part of general grooming rather than specific to the mark. Furthermore, none of the house crows demonstrated mark-directed behavior or increased self-exploratory behaviors when facing mirrors. Our study suggests that self-directed behaviors need to be tested more rigorously in adult male zebra finches while facing their reflections and these findings need to be replicated in a larger population, given the high degree of variability in mirror-directed behaviors.}, }
@article {pmid33935569, year = {2021}, author = {Galal, TM and Abu Alhmad, MF and Al-Yasi, HM}, title = {Nutrient sequestration potential of water primrose Ludwigia stolinefera (Guill. &amp; Perr.) P.H. Raven: A strategy for restoring wetland eutrophication.}, journal = {Saudi journal of biological sciences}, volume = {28}, number = {4}, pages = {2438-2446}, pmid = {33935569}, issn = {1319-562X}, abstract = {The current work investigates the capacity of the water primrose (Ludwigia stolinefera) to sequester inorganic and organic nutrients in its biomass to restore eutrophic wetlands, besides its nutritive quality as fodder for animals. The nutrient elements and nutritive value of the water primrose were assessed seasonally in polluted and unpolluted watercourses. The water primrose plants' highest biomass was attained during summer; then, it was significantly reduced till it reached its lowest value during winter. In the polluted canal, the plant root and shoot accumulated higher contents of all nutrient elements (except Na and Mg) rather than in the unpolluted Nile. They accumulated most investigated nutrients in the growing season during summer. The shoots accumulated higher contents of N, P, Ca, and Mg than the root, which accumulated higher concentrations of Na and K. Therefore, summer season is the ideal time to harvest water primrose for removing the maximum nutrients for restoring eutrophic watercourses. The aboveground tissues had the highest values of ether extract (EE) during spring and the highest crude fibers (CF) and total proteins (TP) during summer. In contrast, the belowground tissues had the lowest EE, CF, and TP during winter. In spring, autumn, and winter seasons, the protein content in the grazeable parts (shoots) of the water primrose was within the range, while in summer, it was higher than the minimum requirement for the maintenance of animals. There was a decrease in crude fibers and total proteins, while an increase in soluble carbohydrates content in the below- and above-ground tissues of water primrose under pollution stress. The total protein, lipids, and crude fibers of the aboveground parts of water primrose support this plant as a rough forage.}, }
@article {pmid33931670, year = {2021}, author = {Cuoco, S and Cappiello, A and Scarpa, A and Troisi, D and Autuori, M and Ponticorvo, S and Cassandro, C and Manara, R and Esposito, F and Santangelo, G and Barone, P and Cassandro, E and Pellecchia, MT}, title = {Neuropsychological profile of hearing-impaired patients and the effect of hearing aid on cognitive functions: an exploratory study.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {9384}, pmid = {33931670}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Case-Control Studies ; Cognitive Dysfunction/*psychology/therapy ; Female ; Hearing Aids/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Hearing Loss/*psychology/rehabilitation ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {Few studies have investigated the neuropsychological profile of Hearing Loss (HL) subjects and the effects of hearing-aid on cognitive decline. We investigated the neuropsychological profile of HL patients at baseline and compared the neuropsychological profiles of patients with and without hearing-aid at 6 month. Fifty-six HL patients and 40 healthy subjects (HC) underwent neuropsychological and behavioral examination and were compared at baseline. Changes at follow-up were compared between HL patients with (N = 25) and without (N = 31) hearing-aids. At baseline, significant differences between HL and HC were found in MOCA test, Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM) and SF-36. Among mild-HL patients, patients with hearing-aid significantly improved on the Clock Drawing Test (CDT) as compared to patients without hearing-aid. Our findings indicate that hearing loss is associated with both a reduced efficiency of the global cognitive state and a worse quality of life as compared to HC, supporting the association between HL and cognitive impairment. Moreover, only patients with mild-HL shows some cognitive improvement after using hearing-aid, suggesting that rehabilitative strategies may be more effective to delay cognitive decline in such patients. However, we cannot exclude that hearing-aids may affect cognitive decline in more severe-HL, but a longer follow-up is needed.}, }
@article {pmid33926813, year = {2021}, author = {Nieder, A}, title = {The Evolutionary History of Brains for Numbers.}, journal = {Trends in cognitive sciences}, volume = {25}, number = {7}, pages = {608-621}, doi = {10.1016/j.tics.2021.03.012}, pmid = {33926813}, issn = {1879-307X}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; *Brain ; Cognition ; *Telencephalon ; }, abstract = {Humans and other animals share a number sense', an intuitive understanding of countable quantities. Having evolved independent from one another for hundreds of millions of years, the brains of these diverse species, including monkeys, crows, zebrafishes, bees, and squids, differ radically. However, in all vertebrates investigated, the pallium of the telencephalon has been implicated in number processing. This suggests that properties of the telencephalon make it ideally suited to host number representations that evolved by convergent evolution as a result of common selection pressures. In addition, promising candidate regions in the brains of invertebrates, such as insects, spiders, and cephalopods, can be identified, opening the possibility of even deeper commonalities for number sense.}, }
@article {pmid33917545, year = {2021}, author = {Kvapil, P and Račnik, J and Kastelic, M and Bártová, E and Korva, M and Jelovšek, M and Avšič-Županc, T}, title = {A Sentinel Serological Study in Selected Zoo Animals to Assess Early Detection of West Nile and Usutu Virus Circulation in Slovenia.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {13}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {33917545}, issn = {1999-4915}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Zoo/classification/*virology ; Antibodies, Neutralizing/blood ; Antibodies, Viral/*blood ; Female ; Flavivirus/*immunology ; Flavivirus Infections/blood/*diagnosis/epidemiology/immunology ; Male ; Slovenia/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/blood/*diagnosis/epidemiology/immunology ; West Nile virus/*immunology ; }, abstract = {Monitoring infectious diseases is a crucial part of preventive veterinary medicine in zoological collections. This zoo environment contains a great variety of animal species that are in contact with wildlife species as a potential source of infectious diseases. Wild birds may be a source of West Nile virus (WNV) and Usutu (USUV) virus, which are both emerging pathogens of rising concern. The aim of this study was to use zoo animals as sentinels for the early detection of WNV and USUV in Slovenia. In total, 501 sera from 261 animals of 84 animal species (including birds, rodents, lagomorphs, carnivores, ungulates, reptiles, equids, and primates) collected for 17 years (2002-2018) were tested for antibodies to WNV and USUV. Antibodies to WNV were detected by indirect immunofluorescence tests in 16 (6.1%) of 261 animals representing 10 species, which were sampled prior to the first active cases of WNV described in 2018 in Slovenia in humans, a horse, and a hooded crow (Corvus cornix). Antibodies to USUV were detected in 14 out of 261 animals tested (5.4%) that were positive prior to the first positive cases of USUV infection in common blackbirds (Turdus merula) in Slovenia. The study illustrates the value of zoological collections as a predictor of future emerging diseases.}, }
@article {pmid33917146, year = {2021}, author = {Shrader-Frechette, K and Biondo, AM}, title = {Health Misinformation about Toxic-Site Harm: The Case for Independent-Party Testing to Confirm Safety.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {18}, number = {8}, pages = {}, pmid = {33917146}, issn = {1660-4601}, mesh = {*Air Pollutants/analysis ; *Air Pollution, Indoor/analysis ; Child ; Communication ; Environmental Monitoring ; *Environmental Restoration and Remediation ; Gases ; Humans ; Soil ; *Volatile Organic Compounds/analysis ; }, abstract = {Health misinformation can cause harm if regulators or private remediators falsely claim that a hazardous facility is safe. This misinformation especially threatens the health of children, minorities, and poor people, disproportionate numbers of whom live near toxic facilities. Yet, perhaps because of financial incentives, private remediators may use safety misinformation to justify reduced cleanup. Such incentives exist in nations like the United States, where most toxic-site testing/remediation is semi-privatized or voluntary, conducted by private parties, commercial redevelopers, who can increase profits by underestimating health harm, thus decreasing required testing/remediation. Our objective is to begin to determine whether or not interested parties misrepresent health harm (at hazardous facilities that they test/remediate/redevelop) when they use traditional and social media to claim that these sites are safe. Our hypothesis is that, contrary to the safety claims of the world's largest commercial developer, Coldwell Banker Real Estate/Trammell Crow (CBRE/TCC), the authors' screening assessment, especially its lab-certified, toxic-site, indoor-air tests, show violations of all three prominent government, cancer-safety benchmarks. If so, these facilities require additional testing/remediation, likely put site renters at risk, and may reveal problems with privatized hazardous cleanup. To our knowledge, we provide the first independent tests of privatized, toxic-site assessments before cancer reports occur. Our screening assessment of this hypothesis tests indoor air in rental units on a prominent former weapons-testing site (the US Naval Ordnance Testing Station, Pasadena, California (NOTSPA) that is subject to carcinogenic vapor intrusion by volatile organic compounds, VOCs), then compares test results to the redeveloper's site-safety claims, made to government officials and citizens through traditional and social media. Although NOTSPA toxic soil-gas concentrations are up to nearly a million times above allowed levels, and indoor air was never tested until now, both the regulator and the remediator (CBRE/TCC) have repeatedly claimed on social media that "the site is safe at this time." We used mainly Method TO-17 and two-week sampling with passive, sorbent tubes to assess indoor-air VOCs. Our results show that VOC levels at every location sampled-all in occupied site-rental units-violate all three government-mandated safety benchmarks: environmental screening levels (ESLs), No Significant Risk Levels (NSRLs), and inhalation risks based on the Inhalation Unit Risk (IUR); some violations are two orders of magnitude above multiple safety benchmarks. These results support our hypothesis and suggest a need for independent assessment of privatized cleanups and media-enhanced safety claims about them. If our results can be replicated at other sites, then preventing health misinformation and toxic-facility safety threats may require new strategies, one of which we outline.}, }
@article {pmid33916633, year = {2021}, author = {Athanasakopoulou, Z and Reinicke, M and Diezel, C and Sofia, M and Chatzopoulos, DC and Braun, SD and Reissig, A and Spyrou, V and Monecke, S and Ehricht, R and Tsilipounidaki, K and Giannakopoulos, A and Petinaki, E and Billinis, C}, title = {Antimicrobial Resistance Genes in ESBL-Producing Escherichia coli Isolates from Animals in Greece.}, journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {10}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {33916633}, issn = {2079-6382}, support = {T2DGE-0944 and 01EI1701//The European Union and the General Secretariat for Research and Innovation, Ministry of Development &amp; Investments (GR) and the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (DE)/ ; }, abstract = {The prevalence of multidrug resistant, extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae is increasing worldwide. The present study aimed to provide an overview of the multidrug resistance phenotype and genotype of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) isolates of livestock and wild bird origin in Greece. Nineteen phenotypically confirmed ESBL-producing E. coli strains isolated from fecal samples of cattle (n = 7), pigs (n = 11) and a Eurasian magpie that presented resistance to at least one class of non β-lactam antibiotics, were selected and genotypically characterized. A DNA-microarray based assay was used, which allows the detection of various genes associated with antimicrobial resistance. All isolates harbored blaCTX-M-1/15, while blaTEM was co-detected in 13 of them. The AmpC gene blaMIR was additionally detected in one strain. Resistance genes were also reported for aminoglycosides in all 19 isolates, for quinolones in 6, for sulfonamides in 17, for trimethoprim in 14, and for macrolides in 8. The intI1 and/or tnpISEcp1 genes, associated with mobile genetic elements, were identified in all but two isolates. This report describes the first detection of multidrug resistance genes among ESBL-producing E. coli strains retrieved from feces of cattle, pigs, and a wild bird in Greece, underlining their dissemination in diverse ecosystems and emphasizing the need for a One-Health approach when addressing the issue of antimicrobial resistance.}, }
@article {pmid33910774, year = {2021}, author = {Kwon, JH and Criado, MF and Killmaster, L and Ali, MZ and Giasuddin, M and Samad, MA and Karim, MR and Brum, E and Hasan, MZ and Lee, DH and Spackman, E and Swayne, DE}, title = {Efficacy of two vaccines against recent emergent antigenic variants of clade 2.3.2.1a highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses in Bangladesh.}, journal = {Vaccine}, volume = {39}, number = {21}, pages = {2824-2832}, doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.04.022}, pmid = {33910774}, issn = {1873-2518}, mesh = {Animals ; Bangladesh/epidemiology ; Chickens ; Hemagglutinin Glycoproteins, Influenza Virus/genetics ; *Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype ; *Influenza Vaccines ; *Influenza in Birds/prevention &amp; control ; }, abstract = {H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) have caused outbreaks in poultry in Bangladesh since 2007. While clade 2.2.2 and 2.3.4.2 HPAIVs have not been detected since 2012, clade 2.3.2.1a viruses have caused continuous outbreaks since 2012 despite the use of vaccines. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of two H5 vaccines licensed in Bangladesh, RE-6 inactivated vaccine, and a recombinant herpesvirus of turkeys vaccine with an H5 insert (rHVT-H5), for protection against recent field viruses in chickens. We selected three viruses for efficacy tests (A/chicken/Bangladesh/NRL-AI-3237/2017, A/crow/Bangladesh/NRL-AI-8471/2017 and A/chicken/Bangladesh/NRL-AI-8323/2017) from 36 H5 viruses isolated from Bangladesh between 2016 and 2018 by comparing the amino acid sequences at five antigenic sites (A-E) and analyzing hemagglutination inhibition (HI) titers with reference antisera. The RE-6 and rHVT-H5 vaccines both conferred 80-100% clinical protection (i.e. reduced morbidity and mortality) against the three challenge viruses with no significant differences in protection. In addition, both vaccines significantly decreased viral shedding from infected chickens as compared to challenge control chickens. Based on these metrics, the current licensed H5 vaccines protected chickens against the recent field viruses. However, the A/crow/Bangladesh/NRL-AI-8471/2017 virus exhibited antigenic divergence including: several unique amino acid changes in antigenic epitope sites A and B and was a serological outlier in cross HI tests as visualized on the antigenic map. The continuing emergence of such antigenic variants which could alter the dominant antigenicity of field viruses should be continuously monitored and vaccines should be updated if field efficacy declines.}, }
@article {pmid33892586, year = {2021}, author = {Iemmi, T and Menozzi, A and Basini, G and Grasselli, F and Grolli, S and Ramoni, R and Serventi, P and Quintavalla, F and Bertini, S}, title = {Evaluation of Oxidative Stress in Blood of Domestic Chickens and Eurasian Magpies (Pica pica).}, journal = {Journal of avian medicine and surgery}, volume = {35}, number = {1}, pages = {28-36}, doi = {10.1647/1082-6742-35.1.28}, pmid = {33892586}, issn = {1082-6742}, mesh = {Animals ; Antioxidants ; *Chickens ; Female ; Male ; Malondialdehyde ; Oxidative Stress ; *Pica ; }, abstract = {A physiological equilibrium exists between pro- and antioxidant factors. When the oxidant factors exceed the capacity of their removal or inactivation, oxidative stress (OS) occurs. The OS levels were assayed in plasma obtained from 2 bird species. Blood samples were collected from 20 healthy domestic chicken hens, 10 living in an intensive farming environment and 10 free-range, and from 18 healthy Eurasian magpies (Pica pica; 7 females and 11 males, with an estimated age of >1 year of age). For OS biomarker assessment, the determinable reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) were measured, and the plasmatic antioxidant test (PAT) was performed; the OS index (OSI) was then calculated (d-ROMs/PAT × 1000) as a parameter of overall oxidative stress. Moreover, lipid peroxidation was assessed by measuring plasmatic malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. A hematological evaluation was also performed on each bird with a hemocytometer, on which a blood sample was placed to obtain both a total and differential white blood cell (WBC) count. In hens, OSI and MDA levels were significantly higher (P = .04, and P = .004) in subjects from intensive farming (14.7 ± 7.1 and 27.2 ± 10.4 nmol/mL) than in those bred in rural conditions (5.6 ± 10.3 and 8.2 ± 13.3 nmol/mL). In magpies, a positive correlation between the total WBC count and OS was found, and both d-ROMs and OSI were significantly higher (P = .03) in subjects with a total WBC count greater than the median value (20.4 × 10[3] cells/µL) with respect to those with a total WBC count less than the median value. The results generated from this study indicate that higher OS levels occurred in hens bred in an intensive indoor farm environment compared with outdoor free-range conditions. Possibly the higher OS levels could be related to the higher stocking density and dust levels found in the indoor facility. Additionally, the correlation between OS biomarker levels in magpies and total WBC count suggests that OS level is influenced by immune response, in agreement with previous studies. Collectively, present data seem to be promising for the application of OS measurement in avian medicine for health and animal welfare monitoring.}, }
@article {pmid33879528, year = {2021}, author = {Choksey, L}, title = {Environmental racialisation and poetics of influence in the postgenomic era: fire, soil, spirit.}, journal = {Medical humanities}, volume = {47}, number = {2}, pages = {145-155}, pmid = {33879528}, issn = {1473-4265}, support = {/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {This article considers processes of environmental racialisation in the postgenomic era through their politics of difference and poetics of influence. Subfields like epigenetics promise to account for a plurality of possible influences on health outcomes. While this appears to present possibilities for historical reparation to communities whose epigenomes may have been chronically altered by histories of violence and trauma, the prevailing trend has been to compound processes of racialisation in the reproduction of good/bad environments. The postgenomic era has promised an epistemological transformation of ideas and values of human life, but its practices, technologies and ideology have so far prevented this. Epigenetics, rather, reproduces biomedical exclusions through imaginaries of embodied contexts, methods of occlusion and hypervisibility, and assignations of delay and deviance. This is more complex than both genetic reductionism and environmental racism: studies on epigenetics reveal a poetics of influence at work under liberal humanism complicit in the creation of death-worlds for racialised populations. Other experiments with life are possible and unfolding: Jay Bernard's poem 'Chemical', set in the aftermath of London's Grenfell Tower fire in 2017, unmoors its bodies from material environment, offering a spectral configuration of collective life. This configuration involves negotiating with the fixing of time and space on which genomic imaginaries depend.}, }
@article {pmid33878441, year = {2022}, author = {Sharma, MS}, title = {Commentary: The Crow and the Pitcher - Necessity is the Mother of Invention for Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Reconstruction.}, journal = {Seminars in thoracic and cardiovascular surgery}, volume = {34}, number = {3}, pages = {983-984}, doi = {10.1053/j.semtcvs.2021.03.020}, pmid = {33878441}, issn = {1532-9488}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Humans ; Inventions ; *Pulmonary Valve ; Treatment Outcome ; *Ventricular Outflow Obstruction/diagnostic imaging/etiology/surgery ; }, }
@article {pmid33875573, year = {2021}, author = {Kirschhock, ME and Ditz, HM and Nieder, A}, title = {Behavioral and Neuronal Representation of Numerosity Zero in the Crow.}, journal = {The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience}, volume = {41}, number = {22}, pages = {4889-4896}, pmid = {33875573}, issn = {1529-2401}, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition/*physiology ; Crows ; Male ; *Mathematical Concepts ; Neurons/physiology ; Telencephalon/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Different species of animals can discriminate numerosity, the countable number of objects in a set. The representations of countable numerosities have been deciphered down to the level of single neurons. However, despite its importance for human number theory, a special numerical quantity, the empty set (numerosity zero), has remained largely unexplored. We explored the behavioral and neuronal representation of the empty set in carrion crows. Crows were trained to discriminate small numerosities including the empty set. Performance data showed a numerical distance effect for the empty set in one crow, suggesting that the empty set and countable numerosities are represented along the crows' "mental number line." Single-cell recordings in the endbrain region nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL) showed a considerable proportion of NCL neurons tuned to the preferred numerosity zero. As evidenced by neuronal distance and size effects, NCL neurons integrated the empty set in the neural number line. A subsequent neuronal population analysis using a statistical classifier approach showed that the neuronal numerical representations were predictive of the crows' success in the task. These behavioral and neuronal data suggests that the conception of the empty set as a cognitive precursor of a zero-like number concept is not an exclusive property of the cerebral cortex of primates. Zero as a quantitative category cannot only be implemented in the layered neocortex of primates, but also in the anatomically distinct endbrain circuitries of birds that evolved based on convergent evolution.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The conception of "nothing" as number "zero" is celebrated as one of the greatest achievements in mathematics. To explore whether precursors of zero-like concepts can be found in vertebrates with a cerebrum that anatomically differs starkly from our primate brain, we investigated this in carrion crows. We show that crows can grasp the empty set as a null numerical quantity that is mentally represented next to number one. Moreover, we show that single neurons in an associative avian cerebral region specifically respond to the empty set and show the same physiological characteristics as for countable quantities. This suggests that zero as a quantitative category can also be implemented in the anatomically distinct endbrain circuitries of birds that evolved based on convergent evolution.}, }
@article {pmid33865988, year = {2021}, author = {Yang, R and Brice, B and Berto, BP and Ryan, U}, title = {Morphological and molecular description of a new species of Isospora (Apicomplexa) from a New Holland honeyeater (Phylidonyris novaehollandiae).}, journal = {Parasitology international}, volume = {83}, number = {}, pages = {102348}, doi = {10.1016/j.parint.2021.102348}, pmid = {33865988}, issn = {1873-0329}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/parasitology ; Isospora/*classification/cytology/genetics ; Isosporiasis/epidemiology/parasitology/*veterinary ; Phylogeny ; Prevalence ; Protozoan Proteins/analysis ; *Songbirds ; Western Australia/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {A new Isospora species is described from New Holland honeyeaters (Phylidonyris novaehollandiae). Sporulated oocysts (n = 25) were characterised as subspheroidal, 29-32 × 28-31 (29.8 × 29.4); length/width (L/W) ratio 1.01-1.02 (1.01). Wall bi-layered, 1.3-1.6 (1.5) thick, outer layer smooth, c.2/3 of total thickness. Micropyle and oocyst residuum absent, but usually two polar granules are present. Sporocysts (n = 25) ovoidal, 18-19 × 12-14 (18.4 × 12.3); L/W ratio 1.42-1.53 (1.50). Stieda body present, flattened, c.0.5 deep × 2.5 wide; sub-Stieda present, rounded, c.2.5 deep × 3.5 wide; para-Stieda body absent; sporocyst residuum present, usually a distinctly irregular body consisting of numerous small granules that appear to be membrane-bound. Sporozoites vermiform, with robust anterior and posterior refractile bodies. Molecular characterization was conducted at the 18S and 28S ribosomal RNA and the mitochondrial (mt) cytochrome oxidase (COI) loci. Phylogenetic analysis of genomic 18S and mt COI sequences indicated that Isospora phylidonyrisae n. sp. was genetically similar to Isospora coronoideae, isolated from an Australian raven (Corvus coronoides) in Western Australia, with a 99.3% and 98.4% homology, respectively. The 28S rRNA sequence was most similar to Isospora anthochaerae (KF766053) and Isospora manorinae (KT224381), both with a 98.2% genetic similarity. Based on morphological and genetic data, this isolate is a new species of Isospora, which is named Isospora phylidonyrisae n. sp. after its host.}, }
@article {pmid33835668, year = {2022}, author = {Bhat, S and Amirthalingam, M and Ballambat, SP and Bhupasandra Vasudev, M and Gupta, PK and Padya, BS and Mutalik, S and Seetharam, RN}, title = {Novel bioactive formulation derived from the conditioned medium of mesenchymal stromal cells reduces under-eye dark circles in human volunteers.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {21}, number = {2}, pages = {814-826}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.14145}, pmid = {33835668}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//Stempeutics Research Pvt Ltd, India/ ; }, mesh = {Culture Media, Conditioned/pharmacology ; Female ; Healthy Volunteers ; Humans ; *Mesenchymal Stem Cells ; *Rejuvenation ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Under-eye dark circles are a common condition observed in dermatology practice. Mesenchymal stromal cell-derived conditioned medium (MSC-CM) contains an array of growth factors and cytokines reported to promote periorbital rejuvenation and may be useful in removing the dark circle around the eyes.<br><br>AIMS: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of developed bioactive formulation containing mesenchymal stromal cell-derived conditioned medium in reducing the under-eye dark circles.<br><br>PATIENTS/METHODS: We tested the safety profile of MSC-CM along with antioxidants, in vitro using human melanocytes cultures. The bioactive formulation containing MSC-CM was developed and tested for physicochemical parameters. The dermatological safety was evaluated by primary irritant patch-test under complete occlusion on healthy human subjects. To elucidate its safety and efficacy, monocentric, open-label, single-arm study was carried out in 20 Indian female subjects for the duration of 12&#xa0;weeks. Parameters such as eye puffiness, radiance, skin smoothness, even skin tone, periorbital fine lines and wrinkles, crow's feet, whitening, pigmentation, skin tightening, and refreshing/soothing effect were used to investigate the rejuvenating property of the bioactive formulation.<br><br>RESULTS: Mesenchymal stromal cell-derived conditioned medium along with antioxidants decreased the melanin content compared to the CM alone in the melanocyte cultures. Besides, the bioactive formulation was safe and emerged as a non-irritant product. Improvement in the majority of the clinical parameters assessed through efficacy study was observed within 4&#xa0;weeks of topical application of the formulation twice daily, and showed continued improvement for 12&#xa0;weeks as evaluated by the dermatologists as well as self-assessment by the subjects.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The bioactive formulation containing MSC-CM was safe and effective in reducing the under-eye dark circles and was beneficial in improving the overall appearance of the eye area.}, }
@article {pmid33833029, year = {2021}, author = {Zaręba-Marchewka, K and Szymańska-Czerwińska, M and Niemczuk, K}, title = {Draft Genome Sequences of Avian Chlamydia abortus Genotype G2 Strain 15-49d3, Isolated from Mallard, and Genotype 1V Strain 15-58d44, Isolated from Magpie in Poland.}, journal = {Microbiology resource announcements}, volume = {10}, number = {14}, pages = {}, pmid = {33833029}, issn = {2576-098X}, abstract = {Here, we report the draft genome sequences of avian Chlamydia abortus genotype G2 strain 15-49d3, isolated from mallard, and genotype 1V strain 15-58d44, isolated from magpie in Poland. The total genome assembly lengths are 1,140,139 bp and 1,158,207 bp, respectively.}, }
@article {pmid33822168, year = {2021}, author = {Seilern-Moy, K and Heaver, JP and Fernandez, JR and Macgregor, SK and John, SK and Cunningham, AA and Lawson, B}, title = {Atypical Knemidokoptosis in Two Dunnocks (Prunella modularis) in Southern England.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {57}, number = {2}, pages = {467-470}, doi = {10.7589/JWD-D-20-00152}, pmid = {33822168}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology/pathology ; England/epidemiology ; Mite Infestations/epidemiology/parasitology/pathology/*veterinary ; Mites/*classification ; Songbirds/*parasitology ; }, abstract = {Avian knemidokoptosis, caused by knemidokoptid mites (Knemidokoptinae: Epidermoptidae), has been reported in wild and domestic birds globally. We report two cases of severe knemidokoptosis in Dunnocks (Prunella modularis) from separate sites in Great Britain, where the disease has previously been reported predominantly in finches and, less frequently, in corvids.}, }
@article {pmid33822149, year = {2021}, author = {Zylberberg, M and Van Hemert, C and Handel, CM and Liu, RM and DeRisi, JL}, title = {POECIVIRUS IS PRESENT IN INDIVIDUALS WITH BEAK DEFORMITIES IN SEVEN SPECIES OF NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {57}, number = {2}, pages = {273-281}, doi = {10.7589/JWD-D-20-00017}, pmid = {33822149}, issn = {1943-3700}, support = {/HHMI/Howard Hughes Medical Institute/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Beak/*pathology/virology ; Bird Diseases/*pathology/virology ; Birds ; Cloaca/virology ; North America ; Picornaviridae/*isolation &amp; purification ; Picornaviridae Infections/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; }, abstract = {Avian keratin disorder (AKD), a disease of unknown etiology characterized by debilitating beak overgrowth, has increasingly affected wild bird populations since the 1990s. A novel picornavirus, poecivirus, is closely correlated with disease status in Black-capped Chickadees (Poecile atricapillus) in Alaska, US. However, our knowledge of the relationship between poecivirus and beak deformities in other species and other geographic areas remains limited. The growing geographic scope and number of species affected by AKD-like beak deformities require a better understanding of the causative agent to evaluate the population-level impacts of this epizootic. Here, we tested eight individuals from six avian species with AKD-consistent deformities for the presence of poecivirus: Mew Gull (Larus canus), Hairy Woodpecker (Picoides villosus), Black-billed Magpie (Pica hudsonia), American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), Red-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta canadensis), and Blackpoll Warbler (Setophaga striata). The birds were sampled in Alaska and Maine (1999-2016). We used targeted PCR followed by Sanger sequencing to test for the presence of poecivirus in each specimen and to obtain viral genome sequence from virus-positive host individuals. We detected poecivirus in all individuals tested, but not in negative controls (water and tissue samples). Furthermore, we used unbiased metagenomic sequencing to test for the presence of other pathogens in six of these specimens (Hairy Woodpecker, two American Crows, two Red-breasted Nuthatches, Blackpoll Warbler). This analysis yielded additional viral sequences from several specimens, including the complete coding region of poecivirus from one Red-breasted Nuthatch, which we confirmed via targeted PCR followed by Sanger sequencing. This study demonstrates that poecivirus is present in individuals with AKD-consistent deformities from six avian species other than Black-capped Chickadee. While further investigation will be required to explore whether there exists a causal link between this virus and AKD, this study demonstrates that poecivirus is not geographically restricted to Alaska, but rather occurs elsewhere in North America.}, }
@article {pmid33819991, year = {2021}, author = {Suttle, LG and Hare, JD and Halliday, JWD and Merlini, S and Russell, DR and Tubman, ER and Valenzuela-Villaseca, V and Rozmus, W and Bruulsema, C and Lebedev, SV}, title = {Collective optical Thomson scattering in pulsed-power driven high energy density physics experiments (invited).}, journal = {The Review of scientific instruments}, volume = {92}, number = {3}, pages = {033542}, doi = {10.1063/5.0041118}, pmid = {33819991}, issn = {1089-7623}, abstract = {Optical collective Thomson scattering (TS) is used to diagnose magnetized high energy density physics experiments at the Magpie pulsed-power generator at Imperial College London. The system uses an amplified pulse from the second harmonic of a Nd:YAG laser (3 J, 8 ns, 532 nm) to probe a wide diversity of high-temperature plasma objects, with densities in the range of 10[17]-10[19] cm[-3] and temperatures between 10 eV and a few keV. The scattered light is collected from 100 μm-scale volumes within the plasmas, which are imaged onto optical fiber arrays. Multiple collection systems observe these volumes from different directions, providing simultaneous probing with different scattering K-vectors (and different associated α-parameters, typically in the range of 0.5-3), allowing independent measurements of separate velocity components of the bulk plasma flow. The fiber arrays are coupled to an imaging spectrometer with a gated intensified charge coupled device. The spectrometer is configured to view the ion-acoustic waves of the collective Thomson scattered spectrum. Fits to the spectra with the theoretical spectral density function S(K, ω) yield measurements of the local plasma temperatures and velocities. Fitting is constrained by independent measurements of the electron density from laser interferometry and the corresponding spectra for different scattering vectors. This TS diagnostic has been successfully implemented on a wide range of experiments, revealing temperature and flow velocity transitions across magnetized shocks, inside rotating plasma jets and imploding wire arrays, as well as providing direct measurements of drift velocities inside a magnetic reconnection current sheet.}, }
@article {pmid33815253, year = {2021}, author = {Meloni, M and Saibene, FL and Di Tella, S and Di Cesare, M and Borgnis, F and Nemni, R and Baglio, F}, title = {Functional and Cognitive Improvement After an Intensive Inpatient Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation Program in Mild to Severe Parkinson's Disease: A Retrospective and Observational Study.}, journal = {Frontiers in neurology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {626041}, pmid = {33815253}, issn = {1664-2295}, abstract = {Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor (resting tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, postural instability, and gait disturbances) and nonmotor symptoms (cognitive, neuropsychiatric, and autonomic problems). In recent years, several studies demonstrated that neurorehabilitation therapy is an effective treatment in addition to pharmacological personalized interventions in persons with PD (PwPD). The main aim of this study was to explore the short-term changes in functional, cognitive, and geriatric domains after a multidimensional rehabilitation program in PwPD (as primary condition) in mild-moderate (M-Ms) to severe (Ss) stages. Our second aim was to compare the effects of multidimensional rehabilitation in M-Ms versus Ss of PD. Twenty-four PwPD in M-Ms to Ss [age (mean ± SD) = 76.25 ± 9.42 years; male/female = 10/14; Hoehn and Yahr (median; IQR) = 4.00; 1.75] were included in a retrospective, observational study. Motor, cognitive, functional, and neuropsychiatric aspects were collected in admission (T0) and in discharge (T1). PwPD were involved in a person-tailored (to individual's needs), inpatient, intensive (5-7 days per week), multidisciplinary (combining cognitive, physical, occupational, and speech therapies), comprehensive, and rehabilitative program. According to Movement Disorders Society Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale III cutoff, PwPD were classified in M-Ms or Ss (M-Ms ≤59; Ss >59); 87.50% of our sample reported significant reduction of functional disability at Barthel Index (p < 0.001). A significant improvement in Token test (p = 0.021), semantic fluency (p = 0.036), Rey's Figure-Copy (p < 0.001), and Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (p = 0.004) was observed. The pain intensity perception (p < 0.001) and the risk of developing pressure ulcers (p < 0.001) as assessed, respectively, by the Numeric Rating Scale and by the Norton Scale were improved. With regard to the second aim, in M-Ms group, we found a positive correlation between the number of neuromotor sessions and the change in functional disability and language comprehension; in the Ss group, on the other hand, despite a higher number of hospitalization days, the total number of completed sessions was positively associated with the change in visuoconstructional abilities. Our findings suggest that an intensive, inpatient, and multidisciplinary rehabilitation program may improve functional abilities, some strategic cognitive functions, and geriatric aspects in PwPD with mild-moderate motor impairment.}, }
@article {pmid33799387, year = {2021}, author = {Iemmi, T and Menozzi, A and Pérez-López, M and Basini, G and Grasselli, F and Menotta, S and Serventi, P and Bertini, S}, title = {Heavy Metal Assessment in Feathers of Eurasian Magpies (Pica pica): A Possible Strategy for Monitoring Environmental Contamination?.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {18}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {33799387}, issn = {1660-4601}, mesh = {Animals ; Environmental Monitoring ; Environmental Pollution/analysis ; *Feathers/chemistry ; Female ; Italy ; Male ; *Metals, Heavy/analysis ; Pica ; }, abstract = {In the present study, the Eurasian magpie (Pica pica), was evaluated as a possible bioindicator of environmental pollution by heavy metals (HMs). Levels of Ni, Pb, Cd, and Hg in feathers of 64 magpies (31 males and 33 females) were measured by ICP-MS technique. Plasmatic biomarkers of oxidative stress (OS) were also assessed. The birds were captured in the province of Parma (Italy), in different capture sites within 1 km from urban area (UZ), and farther than 5 km from urban area (RZ). Median HM levels were 0.68 mg/kg (0.18-2.27), 2.80 mg/kg (0.41-17.7), <limit of detection (LOD) mg/kg (<LOD-0.25), 3.90 mg/kg (1.35-85.9) for Ni, Pb, Cd and Hg, respectively. No significant differences in HM levels were found according to sex, while Ni and Pb were significantly higher in adult compared to young birds (p = 0.047, p = 0.004). Conversely, Cd and Hg levels in young magpies resulted higher than those of adults (p = 0.001 and p = 0.004). No correlation was found between OS biomarkers and HM levels. No differences were found in HM levels according to capture area, except for Hg level, which resulted higher in magpies of RZ (4.05 mg/kg (1.35-12.7)) compared to UZ (2.99 mg/kg (1.54-85.9)). Further experiments are needed to establish whether magpie feathers could represent a suitable non-invasive tool for biomonitoring HMs in the environment.}, }
@article {pmid33795571, year = {2021}, author = {Han, HS and Yoo, KH and Lee, JS and Huh, CH and Kwon, SH and Lee, YW and Kim, BJ}, title = {Phase I/III Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of a New Botulinum Toxin (HU-014) Versus OnabotulinumtoxinA in Subjects With Moderate-to-Severe Crow's Feet Lines.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {47}, number = {4}, pages = {e127-e131}, pmid = {33795571}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/therapeutic use ; *Patient Satisfaction ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: HU-014, a newly introduced botulinum toxin type A, has not been investigated for its efficacy and safety in crow's feet line (CFL) treatment.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: Here, we compared the efficacy and safety of HU-014 and onabotulinumtoxinA in CFL treatment.<br><br>METHODS: This was a randomized, double-blind, active drug-controlled, multicenter, 16-week, Phase I/III study designed to determine the noninferiority of HU-014 compared with onabotulinumtoxinA in moderate-to-severe CFL treatment. In the Phase III study, 290 subjects were randomized at a 1:1 ratio to receive a single treatment of HU-014 or onabotulinumtoxinA. The primary endpoint was the proportion of subjects achieving Grade 0 or 1 in the facial wrinkle scale on maximum smile at Week 4.<br><br>RESULTS: The primary endpoint was achieved by 72% of the subjects with HU-014 and onabotulinumtoxinA treatments, supporting the noninferiority of HU-014 compared with onabotulinumtoxinA. All secondary efficacy outcomes were achieved by the subjects. The 2 groups showed no significant differences in the safety analysis.<br><br>CONCLUSION: HU-014 has noninferior efficacy and safety compared with onabotulinumtoxinA in the treatment of CFL.}, }
@article {pmid33791052, year = {2021}, author = {Shapiro, SD and Boehme, AK and Chang, BP and Miller, EC and Willey, J and Elkind, MSV}, title = {Safety and Hospital Costs Averted Using a Rapid Outpatient Management Strategy for Transient Ischemic Attack and Minor Strokes: The RAVEN Clinic.}, journal = {The Neurohospitalist}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, pages = {107-113}, pmid = {33791052}, issn = {1941-8744}, support = {R01 HL146811/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; KL2 TR001874/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HL132347/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HL141811/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HL146911/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {STUDY OBJECTIVE: Patients presenting to emergency departments (ED) with transient ischemic attack and minor strokes (TIAMS) are often admitted for evaluation, though experience in other countries have suggested that an expedited outpatient care models may be a safe alternative. We hypothesized that a rapid access clinic for select TIAMS was feasible and would avert hospitalization costs.<br><br>METHODS: This retrospective analysis included patients presenting to our institution's ED with TIAMS and NIHSS &#x2264;5 in calendar year 2017. We referred low-risk patients with TIAMS to a Rapid Access Vascular Evaluation-Neurology (RAVEN) clinic within 24 hours of ED discharge. We identified admitted patients who met RAVEN criteria at ED presentation. Rates of follow-up to the RAVEN clinic were recorded. Financial data collected included total hospital costs and time spent in the ED, as well hospital length of stay for admitted patients with low-risk TIAMS.<br><br>RESULTS: In 2017, 149 patients were referred to RAVEN clinic and 50 patients were admitted. Of the RAVEN patients 99 (94%) appeared as scheduled. None had clinical changes between ED discharge and clinical evaluation. One patient required hospitalization at the RAVEN evaluation. When compared to RAVEN patients, admitted patients had significantly higher $7,719 (SD 354) total hospital costs and were hospitalized for 2 days on average. Overall, the RAVEN strategy averted approximately $764,000 in hospitalization costs and 208 hospital bed-days in accounting year 2017.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: For select patients presenting with TIAMS without disabling deficits, a rapid outpatient evaluation may be feasible while averting significant total hospital costs and preserving inpatient hospital beds.}, }
@article {pmid33783651, year = {2021}, author = {Malekian, M and Shagholian, J and Hosseinpour, Z}, title = {Pathogen Presence in Wild Birds Inhabiting Landfills in Central Iran.}, journal = {EcoHealth}, volume = {18}, number = {1}, pages = {76-83}, pmid = {33783651}, issn = {1612-9210}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Humans ; *Influenza in Birds/epidemiology ; Iran/epidemiology ; Salmonella ; *Starlings ; Waste Disposal Facilities ; }, abstract = {Wild birds are important in the transmission of many zoonotic pathogens such as salmonella and avian influenza virus (AIV). The current study investigated the presence of bacterial and viral pathogens in birds foraging at an open landfill located in Central Iran. We collected blood and intestinal samples from five abundant species, including rook (Corvus frugilegus), European starling (Sturnus vulgaris), house sparrow (Passer domesticus), black-headed gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) and slender-billed gull Chroicocephalus genei for bacteriological and serological examinations. Escherichia coli was present in all of the five species, while Salmonella spp. was found in four species. Campylobacter jejuni, Yersinia spp., Cytrobacter spp., and Klebsiella spp. were other bacteria isolated from all of the five species. Competitive ELISA showed that 19 samples (32%) from the two gull species were positive for AIV. There was no detection of West Nile virus, or Newcastle disease virus in the 150 birds sampled. The prevalence of these pathogens in landfill birds indicated that a potential risk is posed to landfill workers and the surrounding community, adding to our limited knowledge of the potential for landfills to support disease vectors.}, }
@article {pmid33783594, year = {2021}, author = {Iqbal, F and Ayub, Q and Wilson, R and Song, BK and Talei, A and Yeong, KY and Hermawan, AA and Fahim, M and Rahman, S}, title = {Monitoring of heavy metal pollution in urban and rural environments across Pakistan using House crows (Corvus splendens) as bioindicator.}, journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment}, volume = {193}, number = {4}, pages = {237}, pmid = {33783594}, issn = {1573-2959}, mesh = {Animals ; Cities ; *Crows ; Environmental Biomarkers ; Environmental Monitoring ; *Environmental Pollutants/analysis ; *Metals, Heavy/analysis ; Pakistan ; }, abstract = {A widely distributed urban bird, the house crow (Corvus splendens), was used to assess bioavailable heavy metals in urban and rural environments across Pakistan. Bioaccumulation of arsenic (As), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), chromium (Cr), and copper (Cu) was investigated in wing feathers of 96 crows collected from eight locations and categorized into four groups pertaining to their geographical and environmental similarities. Results revealed that the concentrations of Pb, Ni, Mn, Cu, and Cr were positively correlated and varied significantly among the four groups. Zn, Fe, Cr, and Cu regarded as industrial outputs, were observed in birds both in industrialized cities and in adjoining rural agricultural areas irrigated through the Indus Basin Irrigation System. Birds in both urban regions accrued Pb more than the metal toxicity thresholds for birds. The house crow was ranked in the middle on the metal accumulation levels in feathers between highly accumulating raptor and piscivore and less contaminated insectivore and granivore species in the studied areas,. This study suggests that the house crow is an efficient bioindicator and supports the feasibility of using feathers to discriminate the local pollution differences among terrestrial environments having different levels and kinds of anthropogenic activities.}, }
@article {pmid33781549, year = {2022}, author = {Guha, D and Roy, PK and Banerjee, S}, title = {Performance evolution of different controllers for frequency regulation of a hybrid energy power system employing chaotic crow search algorithm.}, journal = {ISA transactions}, volume = {120}, number = {}, pages = {128-146}, doi = {10.1016/j.isatra.2021.03.017}, pmid = {33781549}, issn = {1879-2022}, abstract = {The work described herein compares the performance of different optimized controllers, viz. proportional-integral, proportional-integral-derivative (PID) with filter, two-degree-of-freedom (2DOF)-PID, 3DOF-PID, fractional-order-PID, cascade PI-PID, tilt-integral-derivative (TID), and cascade-TID (CC-TID) controllers in frequency regulation of a hybrid energy distributed power system (HEDPS). The HEDPS is integrated with a multi-unit hydrothermal power plant for ensuring stable power supply. Crow search algorithm has been adopted with chaotic mapping (CCSA) for fine-tuning of the controller settings mentioned above. Extensive analysis has been presented to confirm the superiority of the CC-TID controller compared to other prevalent controllers of state-of-art in terms of different performance specifications. The tuning competence of the CCSA has been demonstrated over conventional CSA and other available optimization techniques. To enhance the mastery of the controller, disturbance-observer (Dob) is developed to estimate fast-changing disturbance profiles and subsequently refines the control law. The controller's robustness is affirmed under random perturbations, presence of nonlinearities, and variation of parameters. The effect of integration of a geothermal power plant on the system performance has also been outlined. The efficacy of Dob-aided CC-TID controller in frequency regulation is validated thereof.}, }
@article {pmid33776175, year = {2020}, author = {Pendergraft, LT and Lehnert, AL and Marzluff, JM}, title = {Individual and social factors affecting the ability of American crows to solve and master a string pulling task.}, journal = {Ethology : formerly Zeitschrift fur Tierpsychologie}, volume = {126}, number = {2}, pages = {229-245}, pmid = {33776175}, issn = {0179-1613}, support = {S10 OD017980/OD/NIH HHS/United States ; S10 RR024689/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Crows and other birds in the family Corvidae regularly share information to learn the identity and whereabouts of dangerous predators, but can they use social learning to solve a novel task for a food reward? Here we examined the factors affecting the ability of 27 wild-caught American crows to solve a common string-pulling task in a laboratory setting. We split crows into two groups; one group was given the task after repeatedly observing a conspecific model the solution, the other solved in the absence of conspecific models. We recorded the crows' estimated age, sex, size, body condition, level of nervousness, and brain volume using DICOM images from a CT scan. Although none of these variables were statistically significant, crows without a conspecific model and large brain volumes consistently mastered the task in the minimum number of days, whereas those with conspecific models and smaller brain volumes required varying and sometimes a substantial number of days to master the task. We found indirect evidence that body condition might also be important for motivating crows to solve the task. Crows with conspecific models were no more likely to initially solve the task than those working the puzzle without social information, but those that mastered the task usually copied the method most frequently demonstrated by their knowledgeable neighbors. These findings suggest that brain volume and possibly body condition may be factors in learning new tasks, and that crows can use social learning to refine their ability to obtain a novel food source, although they must initially learn to access it themselves.}, }
@article {pmid33770628, year = {2021}, author = {Yang, J and Kang, C and Wu, C and Lin, Y and Zeng, L and Yuan, J and Zhang, Y and Wei, Y and Xu, L and Zhou, F}, title = {Pharmacogenetic associations of NRG1 polymorphisms with neurocognitive performance and clinical symptom response to risperidone in the untreated schizophrenia.}, journal = {Schizophrenia research}, volume = {231}, number = {}, pages = {67-69}, doi = {10.1016/j.schres.2021.03.001}, pmid = {33770628}, issn = {1573-2509}, mesh = {*Antipsychotic Agents/therapeutic use ; Asian People ; China ; Humans ; *Neuregulin-1/genetics ; Pharmacogenetics ; Prospective Studies ; *Risperidone/therapeutic use ; *Schizophrenia/drug therapy/genetics ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To explore pharmacogenetic relationships of NRG1 genotypes with neurocognitive performance and clinical symptoms after 12 week treatment of risperidone in Chinese Han first-episode schizophrenia.<br><br>METHODS: A cohort of 221 patients with schizophrenia were recruited for this research. Finally 177 untreated first-episode patients were clinically evaluated with the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM), Digit Vigilance Test (DVT), Digit Span (DS), underwent genotyping for five polymorphisms of NRG1, and completed a 12-week prospective study of risperidone monotherapy.<br><br>RESULTS: 1. After risperidone treatment of 12&#xa0;weeks, the total scores, positive score, negative score and general score of PANSS decreased significantly; the scores of RSPM, DVT and DS increased significantly. 2. No significant association with PANSS scores at baseline or change in scores after 12&#xa0;weeks'treatment was found with any of the five SNPs. There was also neither significant association of DVT, DS or RSPM at baseline with any of the five SNPs. 3. After risperidone treatment of 12&#xa0;weeks, rs3924999 and rs35753505 showed significant association with change in DVT and in RSPM in which there were significant differences among different genotype groups.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study suggested pharmacogenetic relationships between NRG1 variants and changes in cognition response with exposure to 12&#xa0;weeks of treatment with risperidone. Two variants, rs3924999 and rs35753505, in the NRG1 gene were associated with the changes in attention and reasoning ability after risperidone treatment of 12&#xa0;weeks.}, }
@article {pmid33765401, year = {2022}, author = {Albuquerque, MR and Rennó, GVC and Bruzi, AT and Fortes, LS and Malloy-Diniz, LF}, title = {Association between motor competence and executive functions in children.}, journal = {Applied neuropsychology. Child}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {495-503}, doi = {10.1080/21622965.2021.1897814}, pmid = {33765401}, issn = {2162-2973}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Aged ; Child ; *Executive Function ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Motor Skills ; }, abstract = {Previous studies investigating the relationship between executive functions (EFs) and motor competence (MC) in typically developing children have produced inconsistent findings regarding the association's strength and nature. Thus, the present study aimed to explore the relationship between EFs and MC in typically developing children aged 6-11 years old. Additionally, we aimed to explore the relationship between EFs and MC in younger (6-8 years old) and older (9-11 years old) typically developing children. In total, 152 children of both sexes performed the Flanker/Reverse Flanker test, Tower of London, Raven's Colored Matrices, Körperkoordinations Test Für Kinder, and Test of Gross Motor Development. Using the global score of MC and EFs and controlling for age, our results showed a significant and medium correlation between MC and EFs (r = 0.380, p < .001). Moreover, the correlation in younger children (r = 0.470), as well as in older (r = 0.272) children were significant. The regression analysis also showed that MC predicts EFs performance in all participants, in younger children, and older children, although with less explained variance for older children. In short, our study suggests that it is needed to promote the development of MC and EFs in children, especially the younger ones.}, }
@article {pmid33762704, year = {2021}, author = {Nikel, W}, title = {My dreams have been weird since the magpies arrived.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1038/d41586-021-00783-9}, pmid = {33762704}, issn = {1476-4687}, }
@article {pmid33754308, year = {2021}, author = {Hasenäcker, J and Solaja, O and Crepaldi, D}, title = {Does morphological structure modulate access to embedded word meaning in child readers?.}, journal = {Memory &amp; cognition}, volume = {49}, number = {7}, pages = {1334-1347}, pmid = {33754308}, issn = {1532-5946}, mesh = {Child ; Family ; Humans ; *Reading ; Schools ; *Semantics ; }, abstract = {Beginning readers have been shown to be sensitive to the meaning of embedded neighbors (e.g., CROW in CROWN). Moreover, developing readers are sensitive to the morphological structure of words (TEACH-ER). However, the interaction between orthographic and morphological processes in meaning activation during reading is not well established. What determines semantic access to orthographically embedded words? What is the role of suffixes in this process? And how does this change throughout development? To address these questions, we asked 80 Italian elementary school children (third, fourth, and fifth grade) to make category decisions on words (e.g., is CARROT a type of food?). Critically, some target words for no-answers (e.g., is CORNER a type of food?) contained category-congruent embedded stems (i.e., CORN). To gauge the role of morphology in this process, half of the embedded stems were accompanied by a pseudosuffix (CORN-ER) and half by a non-morphological ending (PEA-CE). Results revealed that words were harder to reject as members of a category when the embedded stem was category-congruent. This effect held both with and without a pseudosuffix, but was larger for pseudosuffixed words in the error rates. These results suggest that orthographic stems are activated and activation is fed forward to the semantic level regardless of morphological structure, followed by a decision-making process that might strategically use suffix-like endings.}, }
@article {pmid33751048, year = {2022}, author = {Cohen, JL and Rivkin, A and Dayan, S and Shamban, A and Werschler, WP and Teller, CF and Kaminer, MS and Sykes, JM and Weinkle, SH and Garcia, JK}, title = {Multimodal Facial Aesthetic Treatment on the Appearance of Aging, Social Confidence, and Psychological Well-being: HARMONY Study.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {42}, number = {2}, pages = {NP115-NP124}, pmid = {33751048}, issn = {1527-330X}, support = {//Allergan plc/ ; }, mesh = {Aging ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Esthetics ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid ; Infant ; Patient Satisfaction ; Prospective Studies ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: A global approach to facial rejuvenation involves multiple treatment modalities.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of multimodal facial aesthetic treatment on self-reported psychological and social outcomes.<br><br>METHODS: HARMONY, a prospective, multicenter, 4-month study, enrolled patients aged 35 to 65 years to receive on-label treatment with a combination of hyaluronic fillers (VYC-20L, HYC-24L, and/or HYC-24L+), onabotulinumtoxinA, and bimatoprost. Fillers were injected on Day 1, with touch-ups performed on Day 14. OnabotulinumtoxinA was injected at Month 3 into glabellar lines and/or crow's feet lines. Patients applied bimatoprost to eyelashes once daily for 17 weeks. Mean change from baseline on FACE-Q Psychological Well-being and Social Confidence Scales, FACE-Q Aging Appearance Appraisal Scale, and FACE-Q Age Appraisal Visual Analog Scale were assessed.<br><br>RESULTS: Of 100 patients treated, 93 were evaluated at 4 months posttreatment. Significant improvement vs baseline was observed on the FACE-Q Scales for Psychological Well-being (mean change, -19.9; P < 0.00001), Social Confidence (mean change, -18.2; P < 0.00001), and Aging Appearance (mean change, -28.5; P < 0.0001). On average, patients' self-assessed age was 0.1 years older than actual age at baseline and 4.5 years younger at Month 4 (P < 0.001 vs baseline). Forty-two patients experienced adverse events, all mild to moderate.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Multimodal, full facial aesthetic treatment improves patients' self-reported psychological well-being, social confidence, aging appearance, and perceptions of chronologic age.}, }
@article {pmid33746815, year = {2021}, author = {Somma, F and Bartolomeo, P and Vallone, F and Argiuolo, A and Cerrato, A and Miglino, O and Mandolesi, L and Zurlo, MC and Gigliotta, O}, title = {Further to the Left: Stress-Induced Increase of Spatial Pseudoneglect During the COVID-19 Lockdown.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {573846}, pmid = {33746815}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The measures taken to contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, such as the lockdown in Italy, do impact psychological health; yet, less is known about their effect on cognitive functioning. The transactional theory of stress predicts reciprocal influences between perceived stress and cognitive performance. However, the effects of a period of stress due to social isolation on spatial cognition and exploration have been little examined. The aim of the present study was to investigate the possible effects and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on spatial cognition tasks, particularly those concerning spatial exploration, and the physiological leftward bias known as pseudoneglect. A right-hemisphere asymmetry for spatial attention processes crucially contributes to pseudoneglect. Other evidence indicates a predominantly right-hemisphere activity in stressful situations. We also analyzed the effects of lockdown on coping strategies, which typically show an opposite pattern of hemispheric asymmetry, favoring the left hemisphere. If so, then pseudoneglect should increase during the lockdown and be negatively correlated with the efficacy of coping strategies.<br><br>METHODS: One week before the start of the lockdown due to COVID-19 in Italy (T1), we had collected data from a battery of behavioral tests including tasks of peri-personal spatial cognition. During the quarantine period, from late April to early May 2020 (T2), we repeated the testing sessions with a subgroup of the same participants (47 right-handed students, mean age = 20, SD = 1.33). At both testing sessions, participants performed digitized neuropsychological tests, including a Cancellation task, Radial Arm Maze task, and Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices. Participants also completed a newly developed COVID-19 Student Stress Scale, based on transactional models of stress, and the Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced-New Italian Version (COPE-NIV) to assess coping orientation.<br><br>RESULTS: The tendency to start cancelation from a left-sided item, to explore first a left-sided arm of the maze, and to choose erroneous response items on the left side of the page on Raven's matrices increased from T1 to T2. The degree of pseudoneglect increment positively correlated with perceived stress and negatively correlated with Positive Attitude and Problem-Solving COPE-NIV subscales.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Lockdown-related stress may have contributed to increase leftward bias during quarantine through a greater activation of the right hemisphere. On the other hand, pseudoneglect was decreased for better coping participants, perhaps as a consequence of a more balanced hemispheric activity in these individuals.}, }
@article {pmid33743020, year = {2021}, author = {Aziz, B and Zubair, M and Irshad, N and Ahmad, KS and Mahmood, M and Tahir, MM and Shah, KH and Shaheen, A}, title = {Biomonitoring of Toxic Metals in Feathers of Birds from North-Eastern Pakistan.}, journal = {Bulletin of environmental contamination and toxicology}, volume = {106}, number = {5}, pages = {805-811}, pmid = {33743020}, issn = {1432-0800}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Monitoring ; Birds ; Environmental Monitoring ; *Environmental Pollutants/analysis ; Feathers/chemistry ; *Metals, Heavy/analysis ; Pakistan ; }, abstract = {The current study was designed to determine the concentrations of toxic metals (Ni, Pb and Cr) in feathers of birds collected from four regions of NE Pakistan. Feather samples of birds (House Crow, Common Myna and House Sparrow) were collected from different areas. Atomic absorption spectrophotometer was used to determine the concentration of metals in feathers. Analysis of the data revealed that concentrations of Pb and Cr were significantly different (p < 0.05) among bird species, whereas no difference (p > 0.05) was detected among bird species (house crow, common myna and house sparrow) for Ni. A significant difference was found for the concentration of Pb and Ni in all the four studied regions. Whereas, non-significant difference was found in all the studied regions for the concentrating of Cr. It was revealed that there is significant rising concentration of metals (Pb, Cr) in feathers of birds in Azad Kashmir.}, }
@article {pmid33742425, year = {2021}, author = {Wright, AA and Kelly, DM and Katz, JS}, title = {Same/different concept learning by primates and birds.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {49}, number = {1}, pages = {76-84}, pmid = {33742425}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Animals ; Columbidae ; *Concept Formation ; Conditioning, Operant ; *Learning ; Memory ; }, abstract = {Same/different abstract-concept learning experiments were conducted with two primate species and three avian species by progressively increasing the size of the training stimulus set of distinctly different pictures from eight to 1,024 pictures. These same/different learning experiments were trained with two pictures presented simultaneously. Transfer tests of same and different learning employed interspersed trials of novel pictures to assess the level of correct performance on the very first time of subjects had seen those pictures. All of the species eventually performed these tests with high accuracy, contradicting the long-accepted notion that nonhuman animals are unable to learn the concept of same/different. Capuchin and rhesus monkeys learned the concept more readily than did pigeons. Clark's nutcrackers and black-billed magpies learned as readily as monkeys, and even showed a slight advantage with the smallest training stimulus sets. Those tests of same/different learning were followed by delay procedures, such that a delay was introduced after the subjects responded to the sample picture and before the test picture. In the sequential same/different task, accuracy was shown to diminish when the stimulus on a previous trial matched the test picture previously shown on a different trial. This effect is known as proactive interference. The pigeons' proactive interference was greater at 10-s delays than 1-s delays, revealing time-based interference. By contrast, time delays had little or no effect on rhesus monkeys' proactive interference, suggesting that rhesus monkeys have better explicit memory of where and when they saw the potential interfering picture, revealing better event-based memory.}, }
@article {pmid33735945, year = {2021}, author = {Johnston, S and Tutticci, N and Theobald, K and Ramsbotham, J}, title = {Comparison of simulation observer tools on engagement and maximising learning: a pilot study.}, journal = {International journal of nursing education scholarship}, volume = {18}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {33735945}, issn = {1548-923X}, mesh = {Clinical Competence ; Computer Simulation ; Humans ; Pilot Projects ; Problem-Based Learning ; *Simulation Training ; *Students, Nursing ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This pilot study examined if the Clinical Reasoning Observer Worksheet (CROW) compared to a standard observer worksheet used during simulation, would enhance nursing students active learning behaviours and perceptions of clinical reasoning ability.<br><br>METHODS: This pilot study was undertaken to test the design and processes for a future larger study and reports on preliminary evidence of efficacy of recruitment procedures and instrumentation in addition to student's learning outcomes.<br><br>RESULTS: There was little overall difference in outcomes between groups who used either simulation observer worksheet. Overall, participants who used either worksheet perceived their ability to apply clinical reasoning to an episode of patient care increased.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Modifications were identified as necessary for a larger study including changes to instrumentation, method of survey delivery and training of simulation facilitators. A more definitive evaluation will be achievable with a larger group of students in a main study with the suggested modifications.}, }
@article {pmid33732918, year = {2021}, author = {Amenya, PCA and Annan, RA and Apprey, C and Kpewou, DE}, title = {Physical fitness and cognitive function among school-aged children in selected basic schools in the Ho Municipality of Ghana.}, journal = {Heliyon}, volume = {7}, number = {3}, pages = {e06324}, pmid = {33732918}, issn = {2405-8440}, abstract = {Physical fitness is thought to promote cognitive function. Evidence about this is however lacking in the Ghanaian context. This study aimed to investigate the association between physical fitness and cognitive function among basic school children aged 8-13 years. A cross-sectional study involving 591 school children, recruited from 12 randomly selected public and private basic schools was conducted. Physical fitness tests were done using a five-test battery (Fifty metre run, handgrip strength, sit-up, flexibility and standing board jump) following standardized procedures. Cognitive function test using the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) were carried out. More girls (55%), children from 8-13 years old (49.1%) and public school children (66.1%) participated in the study. For fitness, boys performed better than girls in sit ups 3.4 ± 2.2 (mean ± SD), p = 0.012, handgrip 4.3 ± 2.0, p = 0.001 and overall fitness 4.3 ± 2.0, p = 0.007. Children in public schools performed significantly better in forward jump (p < 0.001) while those in private schools did better in 50m run (p < 0.001). For cognition, 46.1% of participants had less than 50% of the total score. Cognitive test score varied for forward jump and handgrip alone and not for sit ups, 50m run and overall score. Mean forward jump score was lowest in poor cognition group (4.9 ± 2.3), followed by good (5.3 ± 2.2) and highest among excellent (5.5 ± 2.3, p = 0.044) cognition group. Similar observation was made for handgrip. Cognition score and hand grip strength were positively but weakly correlated. (r = 0.132, p = 0.026). Although handgrip strength (measuring muscular strength) was significantly associated with cognitive function, this study found no significant association between overall physical fitness and cognitive function. These results indicate that only some components of physical fitness may be associated with cognitive function. This study is however correlational and one cannot infer causality.}, }
@article {pmid33723800, year = {2022}, author = {Bah, HAF and Dos Anjos, ALS and Gomes-Júnior, EA and Bandeira, MJ and de Carvalho, CF and Dos Santos, NR and Martinez, VO and Adorno, EV and Menezes-Filho, JA}, title = {Delta-Aminolevulinic Acid Dehydratase, Low Blood Lead Levels, Social Factors, and Intellectual Function in an Afro-Brazilian Children Community.}, journal = {Biological trace element research}, volume = {200}, number = {2}, pages = {447-457}, pmid = {33723800}, issn = {1559-0720}, support = {PPSUS0040/2018//Funda&#xe7;&#xe3;o de Apoio a Pesquisa do Estado da Bahia/ ; }, mesh = {Brazil ; Child ; Environmental Exposure ; Ethnicity ; Genotype ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Lead/blood ; *Porphobilinogen Synthase/genetics ; *Social Factors ; }, abstract = {Delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) enzyme catalyzes the second phase of the heme biosynthesis and is involved in lead toxicokinetics. This research aimed to evaluate its influence on the relationship between blood lead (PbB) levels and intellectual performance in Afro-Brazilian children. PbB, hemoglobin concentration, ALAD activity, and polymorphism were determined in whole blood. Anthropometric, socioeconomic, and family environment stimuli data were collected with appropriate instruments. The non-verbal intelligence of children and their mothers or guardians was assessed using the correspondent Raven's Progressive Matrix versions. The medians (range) of PbB levels and ALAD activity were 1.0 μg/dL (0.1-21.3) and, 71 U/L (31-113), respectively. ALAD G177C was distributed as follows: 97.9% for ALAD1/1 and 2.1% for ALAD1/2 genotypes. The mean of Raven raw score was 19.3 (± 5.6) points and there were no differences according to sex or environmental Pb exposure. No statistically significant association was observed between PbB level and children's IQ. However, ALAD activity presented an inverse significant association with PbB levels, children's percentile IQ, and children's IQ/Age ratio, suggesting a neuroprotective role of ALAD1 genotype in those with low PbB level.}, }
@article {pmid33722974, year = {2021}, author = {Nieder, A}, title = {Neuroethology of number sense across the animal kingdom.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {224}, number = {Pt 6}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.218289}, pmid = {33722974}, issn = {1477-9145}, mesh = {Animals ; *Brain ; Cerebral Cortex ; *Cognition ; Mammals ; Neurons ; }, abstract = {Many species from diverse and often distantly related animal groups (e.g. monkeys, crows, fish and bees) have a sense of number. This means that they can assess the number of items in a set - its 'numerosity'. The brains of these phylogenetically distant species are markedly diverse. This Review examines the fundamentally different types of brains and neural mechanisms that give rise to numerical competence across the animal tree of life. Neural correlates of the number sense so far exist only for specific vertebrate species: the richest data concerning explicit and abstract number representations have been collected from the cerebral cortex of mammals, most notably human and nonhuman primates, but also from the pallium of corvid songbirds, which evolved independently of the mammalian cortex. In contrast, the neural data relating to implicit and reflexive numerical representations in amphibians and fish is limited. The neural basis of a number sense has not been explored in any protostome so far. However, promising candidate regions in the brains of insects, spiders and cephalopods - all of which are known to have number skills - are identified in this Review. A comparative neuroscientific approach will be indispensable for identifying evolutionarily stable neuronal circuits and deciphering codes that give rise to a sense of number across phylogeny.}, }
@article {pmid33721365, year = {2021}, author = {Yoo, KH and Park, SJ and Han, HS and Won, CH and Lee, YW and Kim, BJ}, title = {Randomized, double-blind, active-controlled, multicentre, phase III clinical trial with two stages to assess the safety and efficacy of letibotulinum toxin a vs. onabotulinum toxin a for subjects with moderate to severe crow's feet.}, journal = {Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV}, volume = {35}, number = {7}, pages = {1587-1594}, doi = {10.1111/jdv.17217}, pmid = {33721365}, issn = {1468-3083}, mesh = {*Botulinum Toxins, Type A/adverse effects ; Double-Blind Method ; *Neuromuscular Agents ; Republic of Korea ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Letibotulinum toxin A (LeBA) was approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (known as the Korea Food &amp; Drug Administration) for cosmetic indications in 2012. However, the efficacy and safety of this newly introduced LeBA have not been investigated in crow's feet lines (CFL) treatment and standardization before its universal use.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The aim of this multicentre, double-blind, randomized, parallel, active-controlled Phase III clinical trial with two stages (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03408236) was to investigate the non-inferiority of LeBA vs. the existing onabotulinum toxin A (OnBA) for the treatment of CFL.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 240 subjects were randomized to either the test (LeBA) or control (OnBA) group. At the baseline and at weeks 4 while maximum smiling (primary efficacy assessment), 8, 12 and 16, investigator's on-site evaluation, independent evaluator, evaluation by the subjects, subjects' satisfaction assessment and safety assessment were performed.<br><br>RESULTS: At week 4, the response rate of primary efficacy assessment was 69.75% and 68.33% in the test (LeBA) and control (OnBA) groups, respectively, without a significant difference. Other minor secondary evaluation results showed significant differences suggesting that LeBA offered better improvement than OnBA, but the overall results did not show significant differences between the two groups.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study showed that LeBA was as effective and safe as OnBA for the treatment of CFL at the same doses.}, }
@article {pmid33720901, year = {2021}, author = {Luca, A and Nicoletti, A and Donzuso, G and Terravecchia, C and Cicero, CE and D'Agate, C and Rascuná, C and Manna, R and Mostile, G and Zappia, M}, title = {Phonemic Verbal Fluency and Midbrain Atrophy in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy.}, journal = {Journal of Alzheimer's disease : JAD}, volume = {80}, number = {4}, pages = {1669-1674}, doi = {10.3233/JAD-210023}, pmid = {33720901}, issn = {1875-8908}, mesh = {Aged ; Atrophy/pathology ; Executive Function ; Female ; Humans ; Linear Models ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Mesencephalon/diagnostic imaging/*pathology ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/*pathology/physiopathology ; *Phonetics ; Supranuclear Palsy, Progressive/*pathology/physiopathology ; Verbal Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The neuropsychological profile of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) patients is mainly characterized by executive dysfunction, but the relationship between the latter and midbrain atrophy is still unclear.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The aims of the study were to investigate which test evaluating executive functioning is more frequently impaired in PSP patients and to evaluate the relationship between midbrain-based MRI morphometric measures and executive dysfunction.<br><br>METHODS: PSP patients who had undergone a neuropsychological battery assessing executive functioning with the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), the phonemic verbal fluency F-A-S, the Raven's Progressive Colored Matrix, and the Stroop word colors test (time and errors) were enrolled in the study. A group of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients matched by age, sex, education, and global cognitive status was selected. All the enrolled patients also underwent a volumetric T1-3D brain MRI.<br><br>RESULTS: Thirty-five PSP patients and 35 PD patients were enrolled. Patients with PSP as compared to patients with PD showed a significant greater impairment in verbal fluency (16.0&#xb1;7.9 and 23.4&#xb1;8.7 words/180 s; p&#x200a;<&#x200a;0.001) and a significant lower score at the FAB total score (11.5&#xb1;3.8 and 13.7&#xb1;3.4; p&#x200a;=&#x200a;0.013). Midbrain area was significantly smaller in PSP patients than in PD patients (83.9&#xb1;20.1 and 134.5&#xb1;19.9 mm2; p&#x200a;<&#x200a;0.001). In PSP patients, a significant positive correlation between verbal fluency and the midbrain area (r&#x200a;=&#x200a;0.421; p&#x200a;=&#x200a;0.028) was observed.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that the phonemic verbal fluency is among the most frequently impaired executive functions in PSP patients and is strongly correlated to midbrain atrophy.}, }
@article {pmid33717337, year = {2020}, author = {Dholakia, S}, title = {An Ethical Analysis of the 'Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojna (PM-JAY)' Scheme using the Stakeholder Approach to Universal Health Care in India.}, journal = {Asian bioethics review}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {195-203}, pmid = {33717337}, issn = {1793-9453}, abstract = {This paper analyses the ethical considerations using the stakeholder theory on two specific domains of the newly implemented 'Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojna (PM-JAY)' scheme by the Government of India. The paper recommends a solidarity-based approach over an entitlement based one that focuses on out-of-pocket expenses for the most vulnerable and a stewardship role from the private sector to ensure equity, accountability, and sustainability of PM-JAY scheme.}, }
@article {pmid33709778, year = {2021}, author = {}, title = {Tribute to Jay S. Skyler, MD, MACP.}, journal = {Diabetes technology &amp; therapeutics}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {235-244}, doi = {10.1089/dia.2021.0090}, pmid = {33709778}, issn = {1557-8593}, }
@article {pmid33683590, year = {2021}, author = {Ghaemi, A and Zhian, T and Pirzadeh, B and Hashemi Monfared, S and Mosavi, A}, title = {Reliability-based design and implementation of crow search algorithm for longitudinal dispersion coefficient estimation in rivers.}, journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international}, volume = {28}, number = {27}, pages = {35971-35990}, pmid = {33683590}, issn = {1614-7499}, support = {EFOP-3.6.1-16-2016-00010//European Commission/ ; }, mesh = {Algorithms ; Animals ; *Crows ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Rivers ; Water Quality ; }, abstract = {The longitudinal dispersion coefficient (LDC) of river pollutants is considered as one of the prominent water quality parameters. In this regard, numerous research studies have been conducted in recent years, and various equations have been extracted based on hydrodynamic and geometric elements. LDC's estimated values obtained using different equations reveal a significant uncertainty due to this phenomenon's complexity. In the present study, the crow search algorithm (CSA) is applied to increase the equation's precision by employing evolutionary polynomial regression (EPR) to model an extensive amount of geometrical and hydraulic data. The results indicate that the CSA improves the performance of EPR in terms of R[2] (0.8), Willmott's index of agreement (0.93), Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (0.77), and overall index (0.84). In addition, the reliability analysis of the proposed equation (i.e., CSA) reduced the failure probability (Pf) when the value of the failure state containing 50 to 600 m[2]/s is increasing for the Pf determination using the Monte Carlo simulation. The best-fitted function for correct failure probability prediction was the power with R[2] = 0.98 compared with linear and exponential functions.}, }
@article {pmid33683078, year = {2021}, author = {Farris, P and Draelos, ZD and Felipe de Oliveira Stehling, L}, title = {Novel Facial Treatment Regimen Improves Aging Skin Appearance.}, journal = {Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD}, volume = {20}, number = {3}, pages = {274-278}, doi = {10.36849/JDD.5791}, pmid = {33683078}, issn = {1545-9616}, mesh = {Administration, Cutaneous ; Adult ; Aged ; Cosmeceuticals/*administration &amp; dosage ; Face/diagnostic imaging ; Facial Dermatoses/diagnosis/*therapy ; Female ; Healthy Volunteers ; Humans ; Hyperpigmentation/diagnosis/*therapy ; Middle Aged ; Photography ; Skin Aging/*drug effects/physiology ; Skin Care/*methods ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Skin care regimens with multiple active ingredients offer a multimodal approach to anti-aging treatments.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The objective of this research was to investigate the efficacy of a multimodal skincare regimen on facial skin appearance after 12 weeks of twice daily use as compared to baseline.<br><br>METHOD: 35 healthy female subjects 35&amp;ndash;65 years of age of Fitzpatrick skin types I&amp;ndash;III with mild to moderate facial photoaging characterized by hyperpigmentation were enrolled. Subjects were seen at baseline, week 6, and week 12, and underwent subject and investigator assessments along with noninvasive evaluations (elasticity, corneometry, dermaspectrophotometer) and photography.<br><br>RESULTS: Most notable at week 12 was a 60% improvement in smoothness, 82% improvement in dryness, 30% improvement in fine lines, and 24% improvement in crow&rsquo;s feet. There was an 8% reduction in macule hyperpigmentation (P<0.001) at week 12, supporting excellent pigment lightening qualities for the regimen. There was a statistically significant increase in skin firmness (decrease in elasticity) as early as week 6 of 6% with further improvement observed at week 12 of 16% (P=0.002).<br><br>SUMMARY: A multimodal skincare regimen with antioxidants, retinol, hydrolyzed pearl, caviar extract, peptides, and growth factors including EGF and TGF-&beta; results in an improvement in the appearance of photoaged skin after 12 weeks of twice daily use. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(3):274-278. doi:10.36849/JDD.5791.}, }
@article {pmid33680687, year = {2021}, author = {Dabek, RJ and Araim, F and Bojovic, B}, title = {"Smizing": COVID-19 Is Giving Us Crow's Feet.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open}, volume = {9}, number = {2}, pages = {e3458}, pmid = {33680687}, issn = {2169-7574}, }
@article {pmid33676115, year = {2021}, author = {Benassi, M and Giovagnoli, S and Pansell, T and Mandolesi, L and Bolzani, R and Magri, S and Forsman, L and Hellgren, K}, title = {Developmental trajectories of global motion and global form perception from 4 years to adulthood.}, journal = {Journal of experimental child psychology}, volume = {207}, number = {}, pages = {105092}, doi = {10.1016/j.jecp.2021.105092}, pmid = {33676115}, issn = {1096-0457}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Child ; Depth Perception ; Eye Movements ; *Form Perception ; Humans ; *Motion Perception ; Vision, Ocular ; }, abstract = {Literature on the development of global motion and global form perception demonstrated their asynchronous developmental trajectories. However, former studies have failed to clearly establish the critical period of maturation for these specific abilities. This study aimed to analyze the developmental trajectories of global motion and global form discrimination abilities by controlling for basic visual functions and general cognitive ability and to present the global motion and global form normative scores. A sample of 456 children and adolescents (4-17 years of age) and 76 adults recruited from the Italian and Swedish general population participated in the study. Motion and form perception were evaluated by the motion coherence test and form coherence test, respectively. Raven's matrices were used to assess general cognitive ability, the Lea Hyvärinen chart test was used for full- and low-contrast visual acuity, and the TNO test was used for stereopsis. General cognitive ability and basic visual functions were strongly related to motion and form perception development. Global motion perception had an accelerated maturation compared with global form perception. For motion perception, an analysis of the oblique effect's development showed that it is present at 4 years of age. The standardized scores of global motion and form coherence tests can be used for clinical purposes.}, }
@article {pmid33669706, year = {2021}, author = {Shrader-Frechette, K and Biondo, AM}, title = {Data-Quality Assessment Signals Toxic-Site Safety Threats and Environmental Injustices.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {18}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {33669706}, issn = {1660-4601}, mesh = {Child ; Environmental Pollution ; Hazardous Substances ; *Hazardous Waste Sites ; Humans ; *Trichloroethylene ; United States ; United States Environmental Protection Agency ; }, abstract = {Most hazardous-waste sites are located in urban areas populated by disproportionate numbers of children, minorities, and poor people who, as a result, face more severe pollution threats and environmental-health inequalities. Partly to address this harm, in 2017 the United Nations unanimously endorsed the New Urban Agenda, which includes redeveloping urban-infill-toxic-waste sites. However, no systematic, independent analyses assess the public-health adequacy of such hazardous-facility redevelopments. Our objective is to provide a preliminary data-quality assessment (PDQA) of urban-infill-toxic-site testing, conducted by private redevelopers, including whether it adequately addresses pollution threats. To this end, we used two qualitative, weight-of-evidence methods. Method 1 employs nine criteria to select assessments for PDQA and help control for confounders. To conduct PDQA, Method 2 uses three US Environmental Protection Agency standards-the temporal, geographical, and technological representativeness of sampling. Our Method 1 results reveal four current toxic-site assessments (by CBRE/Trammell Crow, the world's largest commercial developer); at all of these sites the main risk drivers are solvents, volatile organic compounds, including trichloroethylene. Our Method 2 results indicate that all four assessments violate most PDQA standards and systematically underestimate health risk. These results reveal environmental injustice, disproportionate health threats to children/minorities/poor people at all four sites. Although preliminary, our conclusion is that alleviating harm and environmental-health inequalities posed by urban-infill-toxic-site pollution may require improving both the testing/cleanup/redevelopment requirements of the New Urban Agenda and the regulatory oversight of assessment and remediation performed by private redevelopers.}, }
@article {pmid33664383, year = {2021}, author = {Kolkert, HL and Smith, R and Rader, R and Reid, N}, title = {Prey removal in cotton crops next to woodland reveals periodic diurnal and nocturnal invertebrate predation gradients from the crop edge by birds and bats.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {5256}, pmid = {33664383}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Agriculture ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Chiroptera/*physiology ; Coleoptera/pathogenicity ; Crops, Agricultural/parasitology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Forests ; Gossypium/parasitology ; Predatory Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Factors influencing the efficacy of insectivorous vertebrates in providing natural pest control services inside crops at increasing distances from the crop edge are poorly understood. We investigated the identity of vertebrate predators (birds and bats) and removal of sentinel prey (mealworms and beetles) from experimental feeding trays in cotton crops using prey removal trials, camera traps and observations. More prey was removed during the day than at night, but prey removal was variable at the crop edge and dependent on the month (reflecting crop growth and cover) and time of day. Overall, the predation of mealworms and beetles was 1-times and 13-times greater during the day than night, respectively, with predation on mealworms 3-5 times greater during the day than night at the crop edge compared to 95 m inside the crop. Camera traps identified many insectivorous birds and bats over crops near the feeding trays, but there was no evidence of bats or small passerines removing experimental prey. A predation gradient from the crop edge was evident, but only in some months. This corresponded to the foraging preferences of open-space generalist predators (magpies) in low crop cover versus the shrubby habitat preferred by small passerines, likely facilitating foraging away from the crop edge later in the season. Our results are in line with Optimal Foraging Theory and suggest that predators trade-off foraging behaviour with predation risk at different distances from the crop edge and levels of crop cover. Understanding the optimal farm configuration to support insectivorous bird and bat populations can assist farmers to make informed decisions regarding in-crop natural pest control and maximise the predation services provided by farm biodiversity.}, }
@article {pmid33662942, year = {2021}, author = {Eggers, T and Kilgore, J and Green, D and Vrabec, T and Kilgore, K and Bhadra, N}, title = {Combining direct current and kilohertz frequency alternating current to mitigate onset activity during electrical nerve block.}, journal = {Journal of neural engineering}, volume = {18}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {33662942}, issn = {1741-2552}, support = {R01 EB024860/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Action Potentials ; Animals ; Electric Stimulation ; Electricity ; *Nerve Block ; *Neural Conduction ; Peripheral Nerves ; Rats ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; }, abstract = {Objective.Electrical nerve block offers the ability to immediately and reversibly block peripheral nerve conduction and would have applications in the emerging field of bioelectronics. Two modalities of electrical nerve block have been investigated-kilohertz frequency alternating current (KHFAC) and direct current (DC). KHFAC can be safely delivered with conventional electrodes, but has the disadvantage of having an onset response, which is a period of increased neural activation before block is established and currently limits clinical translation. DC has long been known to block neural conduction without an onset response but creates damaging reactive species. Typical electrodes can safely deliver DC for less than one second, but advances in high capacitance electrodes allow DC delivery up to 10 s without damage. The present work aimed to combine DC and KHFAC into a single waveform, named the combined reduced onset waveform (CROW), which can initiate block without an onset response while also maintaining safe block for long durations. This waveform consists of a short, DC pre-pulse before initiating KHFAC.Approach.Simulations of this novel waveform were carried out in the axonal simulation environment NEURON to test feasibility and gain insight into the mechanisms of action. Two sets of acute experiments were then conducted in adult Sprague-Dawley rats to determine the effectiveness of the waveform in mitigating the onset response.Main results.The CROW reduced the onset response bothin silicoandin vivo. The onset area was reduced by over 90% with the tested parameters in the acute experiments. The amplitude of the DC pulse was shown to be particularly important for effective onset mitigation, requiring amplitudes 6-8 times the DC block threshold.Significance.This waveform can reliably reduce the onset response due to KHFAC and could allow for wider clinical implementation of electrical nerve block.}, }
@article {pmid33658172, year = {2021}, author = {Mota-Veloso, I and Ramos-Jorge, J and Freitas, LRP and Ferreira, FO and Ramos-Jorge, ML and Paiva, SM and Soares, RV}, title = {The prevalence of malocclusion is higher in schoolchildren with signs of hyperactivity.}, journal = {American journal of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics : official publication of the American Association of Orthodontists, its constituent societies, and the American Board of Orthodontics}, volume = {159}, number = {5}, pages = {653-659}, doi = {10.1016/j.ajodo.2019.11.027}, pmid = {33658172}, issn = {1097-6752}, mesh = {*Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/epidemiology ; Brazil/epidemiology ; Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Humans ; *Malocclusion/epidemiology ; Pacifiers ; Prevalence ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder is a behavioral disorder characterized by a lack of focus, impulsive behavior, and or excessive activity. This research aimed to evaluate the association between signs of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder and malocclusion in schoolchildren.<br><br>METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a representative sample of 633 children aged 7-12&#xa0;years. The children were clinically examined for malocclusion using the Dental Aesthetic Index. The predominant breathing pattern was also determined. Parents answered a questionnaire addressing socioeconomic characteristics and the presence of nonnutritive sucking habits. The Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham Scale-IV was filled out by both parents and teachers to compare behavioral patterns. The children were submitted to a neuropsychological evaluation using the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrix Test. Data analysis involved the chi-square test and Poisson regression analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: The prevalence of malocclusion was 42% higher among children with signs of hyperactivity reported by both parents and teachers (prevalence ratio [PR], 1.42; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.11-1.81; P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.004). In the final Poisson regression model, the prevalence of malocclusion was lower among schoolchildren aged 11 and 12&#xa0;years (PR, 0.62; 95% CI. 0.52-0.73; P&#xa0;<0.001) and higher among those who used a pacifier for at least 4&#xa0;years (PR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.02-1.54; P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.029) as well as those classified as mouth breathers (PR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.09-1.51; P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.003).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of malocclusion was higher among children with signs of hyperactivity independently of age, pacifier use, and mouth breathing.}, }
@article {pmid33654486, year = {2021}, author = {Gao, LF and Zhang, HY and Zhang, W and Zhang, XD and Zhu, ZQ and Du, B}, title = {Fitness consequences of divorce in the azure-winged magpie depends on the breeding experience of a new mate.}, journal = {Current zoology}, volume = {67}, number = {1}, pages = {17-25}, pmid = {33654486}, issn = {1674-5507}, abstract = {Sexual conflict in producing and raising offspring is a critical issue in evolutionary ecology research. Individual experience affects their breeding performance, as measured by such traits of provisioning of offspring and engagement in extra-pair copulations, and may cause an imbalance in sexual conflict. Thus, divorce is hypothesized to occur within aged social pairs, irrespective of current reproductive success. This concept was explored in the azure-winged magpie Cyanopica cyanus by investigating the divorce of a social pair and its relationship to their changes in breeding performance with prior experience. Females engaging in extra-pair copulation may intensify sexual conflicts and may be the main reason for divorce. Once divorced, females repairing with an inexperienced male realized higher reproductive success than that repairing with an experienced male; males repairing with an experienced female realized higher reproductive success than that repairing with an inexperienced female. This finding indicates that the fitness consequence of divorce depends on the breeding experience of new mates. Divorced females can obtain more extra-pair copulations, whereas divorced males cannot, when they repair with inexperienced breeders. Divorced females provisioned a brood at lower rates than inexperienced females whereas divorced males had no such difference. It appears that divorced females can obtain an advantage in sexual conflicts with inexperienced mates in future reproduction. Consequently, females are probably more active than males in divorcing their aged mates so as to select an inexperienced male as a new mate. Azure-winged magpies thus provide novel insights into the implications of sexual conflict in birds.}, }
@article {pmid33652621, year = {2021}, author = {Athanasakopoulou, Z and Tsilipounidaki, K and Sofia, M and Chatzopoulos, DC and Giannakopoulos, A and Karakousis, I and Giannakis, V and Spyrou, V and Touloudi, A and Satra, M and Galamatis, D and Diamantopoulos, V and Mpellou, S and Petinaki, E and Billinis, C}, title = {Poultry and Wild Birds as a Reservoir of CMY-2 Producing Escherichia coli: The First Large-Scale Study in Greece.}, journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {10}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {33652621}, issn = {2079-6382}, support = {T2DGE-0944//The European Union and the General Secretariat for Research and Innovation, Ministry of Development &amp; Investments/ ; }, abstract = {Resistance mediated by β-lactamases is a globally spread menace. The aim of the present study was to determine the occurrence of Escherichia coli producing plasmid-encoded AmpC β-lactamases (pAmpC) in animals. Fecal samples from chickens (n = 159), cattle (n = 104), pigs (n = 214), and various wild bird species (n = 168), collected from different Greek regions during 2018-2020, were screened for the presence of pAmpC-encoding genes. Thirteen E. coli displaying resistance to third-generation cephalosporins and a positive AmpC confirmation test were detected. blaCMY-2 was the sole pAmpC gene identified in 12 chickens' and 1 wild bird (Eurasian magpie) isolates and was in all cases linked to an upstream ISEcp1-like element. The isolates were classified into five different sequence types: ST131, ST117, ST155, ST429, and ST1415. Four chickens' stains were assigned to ST131, while five chickens' strains and the one from the Eurasian magpie belonged to ST117. Seven pAmpC isolates co-harbored genes conferring resistance to tetracyclines (tetM, tetB, tetC, tetD), 3 carried sulfonamide resistance genes (sulI and sulII), and 10 displayed mutations in the quinolone resistance-determining regions of gyrA (S83L+D87N) and parC (S80I+E84V). This report provides evidence of pAmpC dissemination, describing for the first time the presence of CMY-2 in chickens and wild birds from Greece.}, }
@article {pmid33647856, year = {2021}, author = {Saviola, F and Bellani, M and Perlini, C and Squarcina, L and Maggioni, E and Zacà, D and Lasalvia, A and Dusi, N and Bonetto, C and Cristofalo, D and Alessandrini, F and Zoccatelli, G and Ciceri, E and Mesiano, L and Semrov, E and Lo Parrino, R and Furlato, K and Pratelli, M and Ruggeri, M and Brambilla, P and Jovicich, J and , }, title = {"First-episode psychosis: Structural covariance deficits in salience network correlate with symptoms severity".}, journal = {Journal of psychiatric research}, volume = {136}, number = {}, pages = {409-420}, doi = {10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.01.044}, pmid = {33647856}, issn = {1879-1379}, mesh = {Brain/diagnostic imaging ; Cerebral Cortex/diagnostic imaging ; Gray Matter/diagnostic imaging ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; *Psychotic Disorders/diagnostic imaging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Patterns of coordinated variations of gray matter (GM) morphology across individuals are promising indicators of disease. However, it remains unclear if they can help characterize first-episode psychosis (FEP) and symptoms' severity.<br><br>METHODS: Sixty-seven FEP and 67 matched healthy controls (HC) were assessed with structural MRI to evaluate the existence of distributed GM structural covariance patterns associated to brain areas belonging to salience network. Voxel-based morphometry (VBM) and structural covariance differences, investigated with salience network seed-based Partial Least Square, were applied to explore differences between groups. GM density associations with Raven's intelligent quotient (IQ) and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) scores were investigated.<br><br>RESULTS: Univariate VBM results gave trend without significant GM differences across groups. GM and IQ correlated positively in both groups: in FEP, mostly in hippocampus, insula, and fronto-temporal structures, while in HC mostly in amygdala, thalamus and fronto-temporal regions. GM and PANSS scores correlated negatively in FEP, with widespread clusters located in limbic regions. Multivariate analysis showed strong and opposite structural GM covariance with salience network for FEP and HC. Moreover, structural covariance of the salience network in FEP correlated negatively with severity of clinical symptoms.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our study provides evidence supporting the insular dysfunction model of psychosis. Reduced structural GM covariance of the salience network, with its association to symptom's severity, appears a promising morphometry feature for FEP detection.}, }
@article {pmid33635988, year = {2021}, author = {Dezfuli, BS and Manera, M and Rubini, S}, title = {Intestinal Histopathology due to an Acanthocephalan in Two Corvid Species from Northern Italy.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {57}, number = {1}, pages = {215-219}, doi = {10.7589/JWD-D-20-00080}, pmid = {33635988}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {*Acanthocephala ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology/pathology ; Helminthiasis, Animal/epidemiology/parasitology/*pathology ; Intestinal Diseases/epidemiology/parasitology/*veterinary ; Italy/epidemiology ; Passeriformes/*parasitology ; }, abstract = {Carnivorous birds maintain parasites in the sylvatic cycle and have a role in their diffusion. The histopathology and ultrastructure of the intestine of 29 Hooded Crows (Corvus corone cornix) and 51 Eurasian Magpies (Pica pica), from the Province of Ferrara (Northern Italy), naturally infected with Sphaerirostris picae (Acanthocephala), were investigated. In both bird species, the prevalence of infection was around 10%, and the intensity of the infection in the Hooded Crows ranged from two to 12 acanthocephalans per host, whereas in the Eurasian Magpies it ranged from one to nine worms per bird. Previous records on the histopathology of acanthocephalans in birds do not provide information on the type of cells involved in the host's reaction. We aimed to gain information on the effects of acanthocephalans on the structural integrity of the birds' intestine and to describe the type of immune cells in the hosts against the parasite. Our results showed that S. picae disrupted the intestinal wall at the site of attachment by means of its neck and proboscis, and three main types of bird intestinal reactions were noticed. The most severe response of the hosts was against the proboscis because of the action of its hooks with recruitment of macrophages, giant cells, eosinophils, and heterophils. Sphaerirostris picae perforated the birds' entire intestinal wall, reaching the peritoneal visceral serosa, but it did not provoke a diffuse peritonitis.}, }
@article {pmid33626062, year = {2021}, author = {Brooks, J and Onishi, E and Clark, IR and Bohn, M and Yamamoto, S}, title = {Uniting against a common enemy: Perceived outgroup threat elicits ingroup cohesion in chimpanzees.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {16}, number = {2}, pages = {e0246869}, pmid = {33626062}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Aggression/*physiology ; Animals ; *Cooperative Behavior ; Female ; Male ; Pan troglodytes/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Outgroup threat has been identified as an important driver of ingroup cohesion in humans, but the evolutionary origin of such a relationship is unclear. Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) in the wild are notably aggressive towards outgroup members but coordinate complex behaviors with many individuals in group hunting and border patrols. One hypothesis claims that these behaviors evolve alongside one another, where outgroup threat selects for ingroup cohesion and group coordination. To test this hypothesis, 5 groups of chimpanzees (N = 29 individuals) were observed after hearing either pant-hoots of unfamiliar wild chimpanzees or control crow vocalizations both in their typical daily environment and in a context of induced feeding competition. We observed a behavioral pattern that was consistent both with increased stress and vigilance (self-directed behaviors increased, play decreased, rest decreased) and increased ingroup cohesion (interindividual proximity decreased, aggression over food decreased, and play during feeding competition increased). These results support the hypothesis that outgroup threat elicits ingroup tolerance in chimpanzees. This suggests that in chimpanzees, like humans, competition between groups fosters group cohesion.}, }
@article {pmid33619738, year = {2021}, author = {Stocco, A and Prat, CS and Graham, LK}, title = {Individual Differences in Reward-Based Learning Predict Fluid Reasoning Abilities.}, journal = {Cognitive science}, volume = {45}, number = {2}, pages = {e12941}, doi = {10.1111/cogs.12941}, pmid = {33619738}, issn = {1551-6709}, mesh = {Attention ; Basal Ganglia ; Humans ; *Individuality ; Problem Solving ; *Reward ; }, abstract = {The ability to reason and problem-solve in novel situations, as measured by the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM), is highly predictive of both cognitive task performance and real-world outcomes. Here we provide evidence that RAPM performance depends on the ability to reallocate attention in response to self-generated feedback about progress. We propose that such an ability is underpinned by the basal ganglia nuclei, which are critically tied to both reward processing and cognitive control. This hypothesis was implemented in a neurocomputational model of the RAPM task, which was used to derive novel predictions at the behavioral and neural levels. These predictions were then verified in one neuroimaging and two behavioral experiments. Furthermore, an effective connectivity analysis of the neuroimaging data confirmed a role for the basal ganglia in modulating attention. Taken together, these results suggest that individual differences in a neural circuit related to reward processing underpin human fluid reasoning abilities.}, }
@article {pmid33613354, year = {2020}, author = {Ashworth, M and Palikara, O and Burchell, E and Purser, H and Nikolla, D and Van Herwegen, J}, title = {Online and Face-to-Face Performance on Two Cognitive Tasks in Children With Williams Syndrome.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {594465}, pmid = {33613354}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {There has been an increase in cognitive assessment via the Internet, especially since the coronavirus disease 2019 surged the need for remote psychological assessment. This is the first study to investigate the appropriability of conducting cognitive assessments online with children with a neurodevelopmental condition and intellectual disability, namely, Williams syndrome. This study compared Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) and British Picture Vocabulary Scale (BPVS) scores from two different groups of children with WS age 10-11 years who were assessed online (n = 14) or face-to-face (RCPM n = 12; BPVS n = 24). Bayesian t-tests showed that children's RCPM scores were similar across testing conditions, but suggested BPVS scores were higher for participants assessed online. The differences between task protocols are discussed in line with these findings, as well as the implications for neurodevelopmental research.}, }
@article {pmid33608624, year = {2021}, author = {Walker, MA and Uribasterra, M and Asher, V and Getz, WM and Ryan, SJ and Ponciano, JM and Blackburn, JK}, title = {Factors influencing scavenger guilds and scavenging efficiency in Southwestern Montana.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {4254}, pmid = {33608624}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {R01 GM117617/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Biodiversity ; *Ecosystem ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Geography ; *Models, Theoretical ; Montana ; }, abstract = {Scavenging of carrion shapes ecological landscapes by influencing scavenger population demography, increasing inter- and intra-specific interactions, and generating ecosystem services such as nutrient cycling and disease moderation. Previous research found the cues promoting, or the constraints limiting, an individual's propensity or ability to scavenge vary widely, depending on anthropogenic and environmental factors. Here we investigated differences in scavenging patterns in a complex scavenger guild in Southwestern Montana. We used camera traps established at 13 carcass sites to monitor carcass detection, visitation, and consumption times, during 2016-2018 and generalized linear models to explore the influence of carcass characteristics, habitat features, and seasonality, on carcass selection and scavenging efficiency. We found that scavenger species diversity was higher at higher elevations and in grassland habitats. Scavenging efficiency was influenced inter alia by seasonality, distance to water, and elevation. We found that most carcass consumption was via facultative scavengers (bears, wolves, magpies, Corvus spp.) rather than turkey vultures, the only obligate scavengers in the study area. However, growing populations of turkey vultures may lead to increased competition with facultative scavengers over carrion, and could have cascading effects on food webs in this ecosystem.}, }
@article {pmid33608384, year = {2021}, author = {Rinnert, P and Nieder, A}, title = {Neural Code of Motor Planning and Execution during Goal-Directed Movements in Crows.}, journal = {The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience}, volume = {41}, number = {18}, pages = {4060-4072}, pmid = {33608384}, issn = {1529-2401}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain Mapping ; Conditioning, Operant ; Crows/*physiology ; Decision Making/*physiology ; Goals ; Head Movements/physiology ; Male ; Movement/*physiology ; Neurons/physiology ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Single-Cell Analysis ; Telencephalon/physiology ; }, abstract = {The planning and execution of head-beak movements are vital components of bird behavior. They require integration of sensory input and internal processes with goal-directed motor output. Despite its relevance, the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying action planning and execution outside of the song system are largely unknown. We recorded single-neuron activity from the associative endbrain area nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL) of two male carrion crows (Corvus corone) trained to plan and execute head-beak movements in a spatial delayed response task. The crows were instructed to plan an impending movement toward one of eight possible targets on the left or right side of a touchscreen. In a fraction of trials, the crows were prompted to plan a movement toward a self-chosen target. NCL neurons signaled the impending motion direction in instructed trials. Tuned neuronal activity during motor planning categorically represented the target side, but also specific target locations. As a marker of intentional movement preparation, neuronal activity reliably predicted both target side and specific target location when the crows were free to select a target. In addition, NCL neurons were tuned to specific target locations during movement execution. A subset of neurons was tuned during both planning and execution period; these neurons experienced a sharpening of spatial tuning with the transition from planning to execution. These results show that the avian NCL not only represents high-level sensory and cognitive task components, but also transforms behaviorally-relevant information into dynamic action plans and motor execution during the volitional perception-action cycle of birds.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Corvid songbirds have become exciting new models for understanding complex cognitive behavior. As a key neural underpinning, the endbrain area nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL) represents sensory and memory-related task components. How such representations are converted into goal-directed motor output remained unknown. In crows, we report that NCL neurons are involved in the planning and execution of goal-directed movements. NCL neurons prospectively signaled motion directions in instructed trials, but also when the crows were free to choose a target. NCL neurons showed a target-specific sharpening of tuning with the transition from the planning to the execution period. Thus, the avian NCL not only represents high-level sensory and cognitive task components, but also transforms relevant information into action plans and motor execution.}, }
@article {pmid33607622, year = {2021}, author = {Torell, EJ and Pistone, TS and Gard, AP}, title = {The history of neurosurgery at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.}, journal = {Journal of neurosurgery}, volume = {135}, number = {4}, pages = {1252-1258}, doi = {10.3171/2020.8.JNS20634}, pmid = {33607622}, issn = {1933-0693}, abstract = {The Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Nebraska Medical Center has grown considerably from one neurosurgeon in 1923 into a first-class department with diverse subspecialty care and innovative faculty. Founding neurosurgeon Dr. J. Jay Keegan, a student of Harvey Cushing, instituted a legacy of clinical and research excellence that he passed on to his successors. The department created a lecture series to honor Keegan's pioneering techniques and impact in the field, featuring prominent neurosurgeons from across the country. Keegan's successors, such as Dr. Lyal Leibrock, grew the department through a unique partnership with private practice. The current faculty has continued the tradition of exceptional resident training and innovative patient care.}, }
@article {pmid33604599, year = {2021}, author = {Lozano-Ruiz, A and Fasfous, AF and Ibanez-Casas, I and Cruz-Quintana, F and Perez-Garcia, M and Pérez-Marfil, MN}, title = {Cultural Bias in Intelligence Assessment Using a Culture-Free Test in Moroccan Children.}, journal = {Archives of clinical neuropsychology : the official journal of the National Academy of Neuropsychologists}, volume = {36}, number = {8}, pages = {1502&#x2013;1510}, doi = {10.1093/arclin/acab005}, pmid = {33604599}, issn = {1873-5843}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Previous research has shown that cognitive tests can lead to misclassification when applying non-representative norms to measure cognitive performance. The objective of this study was to investigate whether this misclassification also occurs with a non-verbal so-called "culture-free" intelligence test administered to different age groups.<br><br>METHOD: The intelligence of a sample of healthy Moroccan children (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;147) ages 7, 9, and 11 was assessed using the Coloured Raven's Progressive Matrices (CPM). Raw scores were used to study age differences, as well as misclassifications when applying the norms of three countries culturally different from Morocco (United Kingdom, Spain, and Oman).<br><br>RESULTS: Intelligence performance was not within the normal range when non-representative norms were applied to the Moroccan raw scores. Misclassifications accounted for a large percentage of the participants that supposedly displayed intelligence deficits, especially when applying the British norms. Up to 15.68% of the healthy children fell within the "intellectually impaired" range, and up to 62.5% fell "below average," with these percentages especially higher at older ages.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our findings confirm that "culture-free" tests should be adapted to each culture and applied together with their culture's specific norms to prevent misclassification and allow for a better, unbiased neuropsychological assessment.}, }
@article {pmid33598801, year = {2021}, author = {Güntürkün, O}, title = {The conscious crow.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {49}, number = {1}, pages = {3-4}, pmid = {33598801}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain ; *Consciousness ; *Crows ; Neurons ; }, abstract = {Nieder, Wagener, &amp; Rinnert (Science, 369(6511), 1626-1629, 2020) demonstrated that some neurons in a prefrontal-like brain area of carrion crows signal neither the physical stimulus nor the intended action but the upcoming choice. This pattern of results implies that neural computations for consciousness can be generated by nonmammalian brains in similar ways as in primates.}, }
@article {pmid33594558, year = {2021}, author = {Zhukovskaya, A and Goryachev, V and Zakhartsev, M and Chelomin, V}, title = {The role of the cadmium-binding protein response of the digestive gland of the Yesso scallop Mizuhopecten yessoensis (Jay, 1857) for marine environmental assessments.}, journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international}, volume = {28}, number = {24}, pages = {30986-30992}, pmid = {33594558}, issn = {1614-7499}, mesh = {Animals ; Cadmium ; *Metallothionein ; *Pectinidae ; Seafood ; }, abstract = {The ability of Pectinidae to accumulate heavy metals and store them in their tissues allows the use of scallops for biomonitoring marine pollution. High molecular weight metallothionein (MT)-like proteins (MTlps) play a central role in this process. Two major MTlps (72 and 43 kDa) have been identified in the digestive glands of Mizuhopecten yessoensis (Yesso scallop). These proteins have a very high affinity for the heavy metals cadmium, cobalt, and caesium. Additionally, these proteins can be deposited in large quantities in the digestive glands of this mollusc. It has been shown that 72 kDa MTlp is the main stress-response protein in areas polluted with cadmium or radioactive metals. Monitoring the amounts of MTlps in the digestive glands of the scallop M. yessoensis in areas with different anthropogenic pollutants has shown that these proteins are reliable biological markers of heavy-metal pollution in the marine environment.}, }
@article {pmid33580613, year = {2021}, author = {Meunier, M and Chapuis, E and Lapierre, L and Auriol, P and Paulus, C and Elbaum, B and Don Simoni, E and Sandré, J and Auriol, D and Scandolera, A and Reynaud, R}, title = {Mannose-6-phosphate complex and improvement in biomechanical properties of the skin.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {20}, number = {6}, pages = {1598-1610}, pmid = {33580613}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Fibroblasts ; Mannosephosphates ; Skin ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The dermis is composed of a tangle of macromolecules that provides the skin its biomechanical properties. During chronological aging, fibroblasts lose their ability to synthesize collagen and an accumulation of matrix metalloproteinases leads to an increase in collagen degradation. As a result, there is a decline in the biomechanical properties of the skin. Skin aging is accelerated by external factors such as UV radiation and pollution, which induce accumulation of oxidants, and so of oxidized proteins in the skin.<br><br>AIMS: Atomic force microscopy (AFM) has emerged as an alternative method for studying the biomechanical properties of skin cells and tissues.<br><br>METHODS/RESULTS: Thus, we identified mannose-6-phosphate complex as a new powerful molecule capable of reversing the visible signs of aging by reorganizing the collagen network of the dermis and by improving the skin biomechanical properties. This effect was correlated with clinical studies that showed a marked antiaging effect through a reduction in the number of crow's feet and in the depth and size of neck wrinkles.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Mannose-6-phosphate complex appeared to be able to protect proteins in the dermis scaffold against oxidation and degradation, allowing an improvement in the skin biomechanical properties.}, }
@article {pmid33572837, year = {2021}, author = {Gil-Sánchez, JM and Aguilera-Alcalá, N and Moleón, M and Sebastián-González, E and Margalida, A and Morales-Reyes, Z and Durá-Alemañ, CJ and Oliva-Vidal, P and Pérez-García, JM and Sánchez-Zapata, JA}, title = {Biases in the Detection of Intentionally Poisoned Animals: Public Health and Conservation Implications from a Field Experiment.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {18}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {33572837}, issn = {1660-4601}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Bias ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; *Poisons ; Public Health ; Spain/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Intentional poisoning is a global wildlife problem and an overlooked risk factor for public health. Managing poisoning requires unbiased and high-quality data through wildlife monitoring protocols, which are largely lacking. We herein evaluated the biases associated with current monitoring programmes of wildlife poisoning in Spain. We compared the national poisoning database for the 1990-2015 period with information obtained from a field experiment during which we used camera-traps to detect the species that consumed non-poisoned baits. Our findings suggest that the detection rate of poisoned animals is species-dependent: Several animal groups (e.g., domestic mammalian carnivores and vultures) tended to be over-represented in the poisoning national database, while others (e.g., corvids and small mammals) were underrepresented. As revealed by the GLMM analyses, the probability of a given species being overrepresented was higher for heaviest, aerial, and cryptic species. In conclusion, we found that monitoring poisoned fauna based on heterogeneous sources may produce important biases in detection rates; thus, such information should be used with caution by managers and policy-makers. Our findings may guide to future search efforts aimed to reach a more comprehensive understanding of the intentional wildlife poisoning problem.}, }
@article {pmid33569865, year = {2021}, author = {Kim, J and Kim, J and Jongudomsombat, T and Kim Bs, E and Suk, J and Lee, D and Lee, JH}, title = {The efficacy and safety of multilamellar vesicle containing retinaldehyde: A double-blinded, randomized, split-face controlled study.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {20}, number = {9}, pages = {2874-2879}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.13993}, pmid = {33569865}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Humans ; Prospective Studies ; *Retinaldehyde ; *Skin Aging ; Skin Cream ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Retinaldehyde is one of the major members of the retinoid family, which has potential skin rejuvenating effects on photoaged skin and has a good safety profile.<br><br>AIMS: The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of multilamellar vesicle containing retinaldehyde (MLV-RAL) 0.05% and 0.1% used to treat photoaged skin.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: A randomized, prospective, investigator-blinded, split-face comparison study was conducted. We enrolled 23 Korean volunteers who applied MLV-RAL 0.05%/0.1% cream on one randomized side of their face and retinol 0.05%/0.1% cream on the opposite side. Wrinkle depth on both crow's feet was assessed by the Antera 3D system. Skin hydration, elasticity, facial curved length, and dermal density were also evaluated.<br><br>RESULTS: After an 8-week application, all objective parameters, including wrinkle depth, were significantly improved in both MLV-RAL 0.05%/0.1% and retinol 0.05%/0.1% treated sides. Compared with the retinol-treated side, MLV-RAL-treated side showed a significant improvement of objective assessments except for dermal density. Additionally, there was no adverse event associated with the use of either MLV-RAL 0.05%/0.1% or retinol 0.05%/0.1% cream.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The application of MLV-RAL 0.05%/0.1% cream improved wrinkle, facial contour, and biophysical parameters associated with skin aging.}, }
@article {pmid33559368, year = {2022}, author = {Wang, Q and Zhou, ZJ and You, Z and Wu, DY and Liu, SJ and Zhang, WL and Fan, KR and Luo, R and Qiu, Y and Ge, XY}, title = {Epidemiology and evolution of novel deltacoronaviruses in birds in central China.}, journal = {Transboundary and emerging diseases}, volume = {69}, number = {2}, pages = {632-644}, pmid = {33559368}, issn = {1865-1682}, support = {2017YFD0500104//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 32041001//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 81902070//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2019JJ20004//Provincial Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province/ ; 2019JJ50035//Provincial Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bayes Theorem ; Birds ; China/epidemiology ; *Coronavirus/genetics ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/veterinary ; Deltacoronavirus ; Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {The variety and widespread of coronavirus in natural reservoir animals is likely to cause epidemics via interspecific transmission, which has attracted much attention due to frequent coronavirus epidemics in recent decades. Birds are natural reservoir of various viruses, but the existence of coronaviruses in wild birds in central China has been barely studied. Some bird coronaviruses belong to the genus of Deltacoronavirus. To explore the diversity of bird deltacoronaviruses in central China, we tested faecal samples from 415 wild birds in Hunan Province, China. By RT-PCR detection, we identified eight samples positive for deltacoronaviruses which were all from common magpies, and in four of them, we successfully amplified complete deltacoronavirus genomes distinct from currently known deltacoronavirus, indicating four novel deltacoronavirus stains (HNU1-1, HNU1-2, HNU2 and HNU3). Comparative analysis on the four genomic sequences showed that these novel magpie deltacoronaviruses shared three different S genes among which the S genes of HNU1-1 and HNU1-2 showed 93.8% amino acid (aa) identity to that of thrush coronavirus HKU12, HNU2 S showed 71.9% aa identity to that of White-eye coronavirus HKU16, and HNU3 S showed 72.4% aa identity to that of sparrow coronavirus HKU17. Recombination analysis showed that frequent recombination events of the S genes occurred among these deltacoronavirus strains. Two novel putative cleavage sites separating the non-structural proteins in the HNU coronaviruses were found. Bayesian phylogeographic analysis showed that the south coast of China might be a potential origin of bird deltacoronaviruses existing in inland China. In summary, these results suggest that common magpie in China carries diverse deltacoronaviruses with novel genomic features, indicating an important source of environmental coronaviruses closed to human communities, which may provide key information for prevention and control of future coronavirus epidemics.}, }
@article {pmid33557698, year = {2021}, author = {Yadav, J and Menon, G and Agarwal, A and John, D}, title = {Burden of injuries and its associated hospitalization expenditure in India.}, journal = {International journal of injury control and safety promotion}, volume = {28}, number = {2}, pages = {153-161}, doi = {10.1080/17457300.2021.1879163}, pmid = {33557698}, issn = {1745-7319}, mesh = {Cost of Illness ; Family Characteristics ; *Health Expenditures ; *Hospitalization ; Humans ; India/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Injuries are a major public health concern, affect the most productive age group i.e. (15-60 years) and increases disability adjusted life years (DALYs) and results in a huge financial burden on the household. Disease burden is represented by DALYs and economic burden represents the out of pocket (OOP) and catastrophic health expenditure (CHE). We examined the burden of injury and its impact on household financial burden among the working population (15-60 years) in India. We used data on National and State Level DALYs for Injuries for 2017 from the published National Disease Burden Estimate (NBE, 2019) Study. The cost of treatment was extracted from 75th round of the National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO, 2017-18). DALYs is the sum of YLLs and YLDs. OOPEs were estimated as a per episode of hospitalization expenses after reimbursement and CHE was defined as out of pocket expenditure exceeding 10% of household consumption expenditure. Accidental injuries particularly road traffic injuries have higher DALY rates among 15-60 years in India (1288 DALYs per 100,000). However, the mean OOPE was found to be higher due to intentional self-harm. Persons suffering from injury in states like Punjab, Haryana, UP, Gujarat, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh approached private facilities more compared to public facilities. Whereas, people from states like Jammu and Kashmir, Orissa, West Bengal, North East availed public facilities more than private. OOPE was found to be five times more in private facilities than in public. The households who sought treatment in private facilities were faced 3 times more to Catastrophic expenditure than those who took the treatment in public hospital of any injury. The present study indicated high DALYs, OOPE and % CHE for injury in India. Higher proportion of households were pushed to catastrophic expenditure due to high OOPE of injury treatment. Disease and economic burden due to road traffic injury and fall was found to be high as compared to other injuries. Our study strengthens the need for executing effective financial protection approach in India like PM-JAY, to minimize the financial burden incurred due to injuries in India.}, }
@article {pmid33539129, year = {2021}, author = {Lütke, N and Lange-Küttner, C}, title = {The magical number four in children's mental rotation of cube aggregates.}, journal = {Developmental psychology}, volume = {57}, number = {2}, pages = {211-226}, doi = {10.1037/dev0001139}, pmid = {33539129}, issn = {1939-0599}, mesh = {Adult ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {We investigated mental rotation in children by systematically varying the adult cube aggregate's set size, rotation angle, and picture/depth plane rotations in a new test. Eighty 4- to 11-year-old mainly middle-class children (British Indian and British African majority and white minority; 40 girls and 40 boys) were assessed using the new matching-to-sample Colored Mental Rotation Test (CMRT) and, for comparison, the Raven Colored Progressive Matrices Test (RCPM). A high Cronbach's alpha of .94 and the Rasch model demonstrated item homogeneity of the CMRT. As expected, there were main effects of age showing increases in accuracy and of sex as boys outperformed girls. A main effect of set size showed that from age four until age 10 as four-cube aggregates proved to be the most economical three-dimensional (3D) object for mental rotation. Several higher-order interactions all involved four-cube aggregates, for example, 3D cube element protrusions had the largest effect in the four-cube-aggregate. We thus suggest that the magical number four (Cowan, 2001) as an attentional limit may also be valid in mental rotation and linked to the 'Good Gestalt' design of the four-cube aggregate. The cross-validation of CMRT with the RCPM showed high correlations increasing from .69 in 4- to 5-year-olds to .77 in 10- to 11-year-olds. Interestingly, 4- to 5-year-olds girls scored higher in the Raven test of nonverbal reasoning than in the CRMT scores with 3D cube aggregates demonstrating the particular complexity of 3D pictorial space. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid33532814, year = {2021}, author = {Kandhari, R and Imran, A and Sethi, N and Rahman, E and Mosahebi, A}, title = {Onabotulinumtoxin Type A Dosage for Upper Face Expression Lines in Males: A Systematic Review of Current Recommendations.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {41}, number = {12}, pages = {1439-1453}, doi = {10.1093/asj/sjab015}, pmid = {33532814}, issn = {1527-330X}, mesh = {*Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; Facial Expression ; Female ; Forehead ; Humans ; Male ; *Neuromuscular Agents ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin injection is the most commonly performed minimally invasive aesthetic procedure in men. Despite various recommendations by experts on the use of onabotulinumtoxin type A in the literature, distinct guidelines for its use in males and females do not exist.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to delineate safe and effective doses for the use of onabotulinumtoxin type A in males for correction of upper facial expression lines.<br><br>METHODS: PubMed (MEDLINE), Embase, the Cochrane database, and Google Scholar were searched from 2002 to 2019 inclusive. Three researchers independently assessed trials for inclusion, extracted data, checked for accuracy, and assessed the evidence with AGREE II.<br><br>RESULTS: Average dosing recommended for the treatment of upper face expression lines was specific to glabellar frown lines, crow's feet, and horizontal forehead lines. Changing trends and gender variation was noted in each of the studies. Six of the 11 recommendations suggest the need to alter dosing in male patients, although do not give separate recommendations.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: There is an urgent need for up-to-date recommendations for the use of onabotulinumtoxin type A in upper face expression lines of male patients.}, }
@article {pmid33530934, year = {2021}, author = {Zappa, G and LoMauro, A and Baranello, G and Cavallo, E and Corti, P and Mastella, C and Costantino, MA}, title = {Intellectual abilities, language comprehension, speech, and motor function in children with spinal muscular atrophy type 1.}, journal = {Journal of neurodevelopmental disorders}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {9}, pmid = {33530934}, issn = {1866-1955}, mesh = {Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition ; *Comprehension ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Muscular Atrophy, Spinal ; Retrospective Studies ; Speech ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a chronic, neuromuscular disease characterized by degeneration of spinal cord motor neurons, resulting in progressive muscular atrophy and weakness. SMA1 is the most severe form characterized by significant bulbar, respiratory, and motor dysfunction. SMA1 prevents children from speaking a clearly understandable and fluent language, with their communication being mainly characterized by eye movements, guttural sounds, and anarthria (type 1a); severe dysarthria (type 1b); and nasal voice and dyslalia (type 1c). The aim of this study was to analyze for the first time cognitive functions, language comprehension, and speech in natural history SMA1 children according to age and subtypes, to develop cognitive and language benchmarks that provide outcomes for the clinical medication trials that are changing SMA1 course/trajectory.<br><br>METHODS: This is a retrospective study including 22 children with SMA1 (10 affected by subtype 1a-1b: AB and 12 by 1c: C) aged 3-11 years in clinical stable condition with a coded way to communicate "yes" and "no". Data from the following assessments have been retrieved from patient charts: one-dimensional Raven test (RCPM), to evaluate cognitive development (IQ); ALS Severity Score (ALSSS) to evaluate speech disturbances; Brown Bellugy modified for Italian standards (TCGB) to evaluate language comprehension; and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Infant Test of Neuromuscular Disorders (CHOP-INTEND) to assess motor functioning.<br><br>RESULTS: SMA 1AB and 1C children were similar in age, with the former characterized by lower CHOP-INTEND scores compared to the latter. All 22 children had collaborated to RCPM and their median IQ was 120 with no difference (p = 0.945) between AB and C. Global median score of the speech domain of the ALSSS was 5; however, it was 2 in AB children, being significantly lower than C (6.5, p < 0.001). TCGB test had been completed by 13 children, with morphosyntactic comprehension being in the normal range (50). Although ALSSS did not correlate with both IQ and TCGB, it had a strong (p < 0.001) correlation with CHOP-INTEND described by an exponential rise to maximum.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Although speech and motor function were severely compromised, children with SMA1 showed general intelligence and language comprehension in the normal range. Speech impairment was strictly related to global motor impairment.}, }
@article {pmid33528413, year = {2021}, author = {Ge, R and Luo, Y and Gao, S and Han, Y and Chen, L and Cai, X}, title = {Reconfigurable silicon bandpass filters based on cascaded Sagnac loop mirrors.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {46}, number = {3}, pages = {580-583}, doi = {10.1364/OL.410477}, pmid = {33528413}, issn = {1539-4794}, abstract = {We demonstrate a high-performance reconfigurable bandpass filter implemented by cascaded Sagnac loop mirror (SLM)-based coupled resonator optical waveguides (CROWs) on the silicon-on-insulator platform. By dynamic thermal tuning of the reflectivity in each SLM, the proposed filter can achieve simultaneous 3 dB bandwidth tuning from 8.50 to 20.25 GHz and a central wavelength tuning range of 216.25 GHz. A box-like filtering response with an ultra-high extinction ratio up to 70 dB and an ultra-sharp roll-off of 0.61 are observed in a 6th-order SLM-coupled resonator optical waveguide (SLM-CROW). The proposed reconfigurable SLM-CROW filter can satisfy the demand for next-generation flexible-grid WDM networks.}, }
@article {pmid33525382, year = {2021}, author = {Sarker, S and Athukorala, A and Bowden, TR and Boyle, DB}, title = {Genomic Characterisation of a Novel Avipoxvirus Isolated from an Endangered Yellow-Eyed Penguin (Megadyptes antipodes).}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {33525382}, issn = {1999-4915}, mesh = {Animals ; Avipoxvirus/classification/*genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Endangered Species ; Evolution, Molecular ; *Genome, Viral ; Molecular Sequence Annotation ; New Zealand ; Phylogeny ; Poxviridae Infections/*veterinary/virology ; Promoter Regions, Genetic ; Spheniscidae/*virology ; }, abstract = {Emerging viral diseases have become a significant concern due to their potential consequences for animal and environmental health. Over the past few decades, it has become clear that viruses emerging in wildlife may pose a major threat to vulnerable or endangered species. Diphtheritic stomatitis, likely to be caused by an avipoxvirus, has been recognised as a significant cause of mortality for the endangered yellow-eyed penguin (Megadyptes antipodes) in New Zealand. However, the avipoxvirus that infects yellow-eyed penguins has remained uncharacterised. Here, we report the complete genome of a novel avipoxvirus, penguinpox virus 2 (PEPV2), which was derived from a virus isolate obtained from a skin lesion of a yellow-eyed penguin. The PEPV2 genome is 349.8 kbp in length and contains 327 predicted genes; five of these genes were found to be unique, while a further two genes were absent compared to shearwaterpox virus 2 (SWPV2). In comparison with penguinpox virus (PEPV) isolated from an African penguin, there was a lack of conservation within the central region of the genome. Subsequent phylogenetic analyses of the PEPV2 genome positioned it within a distinct subclade comprising the recently isolated avipoxvirus genome sequences from shearwater, canary, and magpie bird species, and demonstrated a high degree of sequence similarity with SWPV2 (96.27%). This is the first reported genome sequence of PEPV2 from a yellow-eyed penguin and will help to track the evolution of avipoxvirus infections in this rare and endangered species.}, }
@article {pmid33523683, year = {2021}, author = {Roelofs, A}, title = {How attention controls naming: Lessons from Wundt 2.0.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. General}, volume = {150}, number = {10}, pages = {1927-1955}, doi = {10.1037/xge0001030}, pmid = {33523683}, issn = {1939-2222}, mesh = {*Attention ; Humans ; }, abstract = {When models of the attentional control of vocal naming, applied to color-word Stroop and picture-word interference, were first computationally implemented and examined in 1990, an implementable model proposed by Wundt (1880, 1902) was not considered. Although these modern computer models, and more recent ones, clarify many aspects of the interference, most models fail to explain its time course, as outlined in Roelofs (2003). Wundt's (1902) model assigns a key role to top-down inhibition, which is absent in most of the modern models. Here, an implementation of his model is presented, called Wundt 2.0. The necessity of perceptual inhibition was demonstrated by computer simulations of the interference and its time course, and supported by existing evidence from oscillatory brain activity in the alpha frequency band. Moreover, a new empirical study showed that Raven scores measuring the general intelligence factor g, discovered by Wundt's student Spearman (1904), predict the magnitude of the Stroop effect in fast errors, in line with the model and evidence on alpha band activity. Also, the study provided evidence that response inhibition is absent during vocal naming in the Stroop task. To conclude, Wundt's model has stood the test of time and provides a number of enduring lessons for our understanding of attention and performance. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid33513947, year = {2021}, author = {Cukor, J and Linda, R and Andersen, O and Eriksen, LF and Vacek, Z and Riegert, J and Šálek, M}, title = {Evaluation of Spatio-Temporal Patterns of Predation Risk to Forest Grouse Nests in the Central European Mountain Regions.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {33513947}, issn = {2076-2615}, support = {TACR TH04030524//Technology Agency of the Czech Republic/ ; RVO 68081766//Akademie V&#x11b;d &#x10c;esk&#xe9; Republiky/ ; }, abstract = {We evaluated the spatiotemporal patterns of predation risk on black grouse nests using artificial nests that were monitored by camera traps in mountain areas with a small extant (Ore Mts.) and already extinct (Jeseníky Mts.) black grouse population. The overall predation rate of artificial nests was 56% and we found significant differences in survival rate courses over time between both study areas (68% Ore Mts. vs. 41%, Jeseníky Mts.). Within the time required for successful egg incubation (25 days), nest survival probability was 0.32 in the Ore Mts. and 0.59 in Jeseníky Mts. The stone marten (Martes foina) was the primary nest predator in both study areas (39% in total), followed by common raven (Corvus corax, 25%) and red fox (Vulpes vulpes, 22%). The proportion of depredated nests did not differ between habitat types (i.e., open forest interior, clearing, forest edge), but we recorded the effect of interaction of study area and habitat. In Ore Mts., the main nest predator was common raven with seven records (37%). The Eurasian jay (Garrulus glandarius) was responsible for most predation attempts in Jeseníky Mts. (five records, i.e., 83%), while in the Ore Mts., most predation attempts were done by red fox (six records, i.e., 38%).}, }
@article {pmid33510690, year = {2020}, author = {Etcoff, N and Stock, S and Krumhuber, EG and Reed, LI}, title = {A Novel Test of the Duchenne Marker: Smiles After Botulinum Toxin Treatment for Crow's Feet Wrinkles.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {612654}, pmid = {33510690}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Smiles that vary in muscular configuration also vary in how they are perceived. Previous research suggests that "Duchenne smiles," indicated by the combined actions of the orbicularis oculi (cheek raiser) and the zygomaticus major muscles (lip corner puller), signal enjoyment. This research has compared perceptions of Duchenne smiles with non-Duchenne smiles among individuals voluntarily innervating or inhibiting the orbicularis oculi muscle. Here we used a novel set of highly controlled stimuli: photographs of patients taken before and after receiving botulinum toxin treatment for crow's feet lines that selectively paralyzed the lateral orbicularis oculi muscle and removed visible lateral eye wrinkles, to test perception of smiles. Smiles in which the orbicularis muscle was active (prior to treatment) were rated as more felt, spontaneous, intense, and happier. Post treatment patients looked younger, although not more attractive. We discuss the potential implications of these findings within the context of emotion science and clinical research on botulinum toxin.}, }
@article {pmid33503032, year = {2021}, author = {Boone, JD and Witt, C and Ammon, EM}, title = {Behavior-specific occurrence patterns of Pinyon Jays (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) in three Great Basin study areas and significance for pinyon-juniper woodland management.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {16}, number = {1}, pages = {e0237621}, pmid = {33503032}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Conservation of Natural Resources/*methods ; Crows/*metabolism ; Demography ; Ecosystem ; Forests ; Juniperus/growth &amp; development ; Population Density ; Trees ; United States ; }, abstract = {The Pinyon Jay is a highly social, year-round inhabitant of pinyon-juniper and other coniferous woodlands in the western United States. Range-wide, Pinyon Jays have declined ~ 3-4% per year for at least the last half-century. Occurrence patterns and habitat use of Pinyon Jays have not been well characterized across much of the species' range, and obtaining this information is necessary for better understanding the causes of ongoing declines and determining useful conservation strategies. Additionally, it is important to better understand if and how targeted removal of pinyon-juniper woodland, a common and widespread vegetation management practice, affects Pinyon Jays. The goal of this study was to identify the characteristics of areas used by Pinyon Jays for several critical life history components in the Great Basin, which is home to nearly half of the species' global population, and to thereby facilitate the inclusion of Pinyon Jay conservation measures in the design of vegetation management projects. To accomplish this, we studied Pinyon Jays in three widely separated study areas using radio telemetry and direct observation and measured key attributes of their locations and a separate set of randomly-selected control sites using the U. S. Forest Service's Forest Inventory Analysis protocol. Data visualizations, principle components analysis, and logistic regressions of the resulting data indicated that Pinyon Jays used a distinct subset of available pinyon-juniper woodland habitat, and further suggested that Pinyon Jays used different but overlapping habitats for seed caching, foraging, and nesting. Caching was concentrated in low-elevation, relatively flat areas with low tree cover; foraging occurred at slightly higher elevations with generally moderate but variable tree cover; and nesting was concentrated in slightly higher areas with high tree and vegetation cover. All three of these Pinyon Jay behavior types were highly concentrated within the lower-elevation band of pinyon-juniper woodland close to the woodland-shrubland ecotone. Woodland removal projects in the Great Basin are often concentrated in these same areas, so it is potentially important to incorporate conservation measures informed by Pinyon Jay occurrence patterns into existing woodland management paradigms, protocols, and practices.}, }
@article {pmid33497062, year = {2021}, author = {Ing, C and Landau, R and DeStephano, D and Miles, CH and von Ungern-Sternberg, BS and Li, G and Whitehouse, AJO}, title = {Prenatal Exposure to General Anesthesia and Childhood Behavioral Deficit.}, journal = {Anesthesia and analgesia}, volume = {133}, number = {3}, pages = {595-605}, pmid = {33497062}, issn = {1526-7598}, support = {R01 HS026493/HS/AHRQ HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Age Factors ; Anesthesia, General/*adverse effects ; Anesthetics, General/*adverse effects ; Child ; Child Behavior/*drug effects ; Child Behavior Disorders/*chemically induced/diagnosis/physiopathology/psychology ; Child Development/*drug effects ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Nervous System/*drug effects/growth &amp; development ; Pregnancy ; *Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects ; Risk Assessment ; Risk Factors ; Western Australia ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Exposure to surgery and anesthesia in early childhood has been found to be associated with an increased risk of behavioral deficits. While the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned against prenatal exposure to anesthetic drugs, little clinical evidence exists to support this recommendation. This study evaluates the association between prenatal exposure to general anesthesia due to maternal procedures during pregnancy and neuropsychological and behavioral outcome scores at age 10.<br><br>METHODS: This is an observational cohort study of children born in Perth, Western Australia, with 2 generations of participants contributing data to the Raine Study. In the Raine Study, the first generation (Gen1) are mothers enrolled during pregnancy, and the second generation (Gen2) are the children born to these mothers from 1989 to 1992 with neuropsychological and behavioral tests at age 10 (n=2024). In the primary analysis, 6 neuropsychological and behavioral tests were evaluated at age 10: Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (CPM), McCarron Assessment of Neuromuscular Development (MAND), Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (PPVT), Symbol Digit Modality Test (SDMT) with written and oral scores, Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals (CELF) with Expressive, Receptive, and Total language scores, and Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) with Internalizing, Externalizing, and Total behavior scores. Outcome scores of children prenatally exposed to general anesthesia were compared to children without prenatal exposure using multivariable linear regression models adjusting for demographic and clinical covariates (sex, race, income, and maternal education, alcohol or tobacco use, and clinical diagnoses: diabetes, epilepsy, hypertension, psychiatric disorders, or thyroid dysfunction). Bonferroni adjustment was used for the 6 independent tests in the primary analysis, so a corrected P value <.0083 (P = .05 divided by 6 tests, or a 99.17% confidence interval [CI]) was required for statistical significance.<br><br>RESULTS: Among 2024 children with available outcome scores, 22 (1.1%) were prenatally exposed to general anesthesia. Prenatally exposed children had higher CBCL Externalizing behavioral scores (score difference of 6.1 [99.17% CI, 0.2-12.0]; P = .006) than unexposed children. Of 6 tests including 11 scores and subscores, only CBCL Externalizing behavioral scores remained significant after multiple comparisons adjustment with no significant differences found in any other score.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Prenatal exposure to general anesthetics is associated with increased externalizing behavioral problems in childhood. However, given the limitations of this study and that avoiding necessary surgery during pregnancy can have significant detrimental effects on the mother and the child, further studies are needed before changes to clinical practice are made.}, }
@article {pmid33496915, year = {2021}, author = {Dupont-Soares, M and Dos Santos, M and Garcia, EM and Soares, MCF and Muccillo-Baisch, AL and da Silva Júnior, FMR}, title = {Maternal, neonatal and socio-economic factors associated with intellectual development among children from a coal mining region in Brazil.}, journal = {Environmental geochemistry and health}, volume = {43}, number = {8}, pages = {3055-3066}, pmid = {33496915}, issn = {1573-2983}, support = {001//Coordena&#xe7;&#xe3;o de Aperfei&#xe7;oamento de Pessoal de N&#xed;vel Superior/ ; }, mesh = {Brazil ; Coal ; *Coal Mining ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; Power Plants ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {Coal is the most aggressive energy sources in the environment. Several adverse outcomes on children's health exposure to coal pollutants have been reported. Pollutants from coal power plants adversely affect the intellectual development and capacity. The present study aimed to evaluate the intellectual development and associated factors among children living a city under the direct influence (DI) and six neighboring municipalities under the indirect influence (II) of coal mining activity in the largest coal reserve of Brazil. A structured questionnaire was completed by the child's guardian, and Raven's Progressive Color Matrices were administered to each child to assess intellectual development. A total of 778 children participated. In general, no significant difference was observed between the two cities. The DI city had better socioeconomic conditions than the II municipalities according to family income (< 0.001). The prevalence of children who were intellectually below average or with intellectual disabilities was 22.9%, and there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between municipalities. In both unadjusted and adjusted analyses, intellectual development was associated with maternal age, marital situation and maternal education level, birth weight, breast feeding, frequent children's daycare, paternal participation in children's care and child growth. Living in the DI area was not associated with intellectual disability. The results suggest that socioeconomic conditions and maternal and neonatal outcomes are more important than environmental factors for intellectual development of children living in a coal mining area.}, }
@article {pmid33488467, year = {2020}, author = {Song, JHH and Loyal, S and Lond, B}, title = {Metacognitive Awareness Scale, Domain Specific (MCAS-DS): Assessing Metacognitive Awareness During Raven's Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {607577}, pmid = {33488467}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Metacognition, the cognition about cognition, is closely linked to intelligence and therefore understanding the metacognitive processes underlying intelligence test performance, specifically on Raven's Progressive Matrices, could help advance the knowledge about intelligence. The measurement of metacognition, is often done using domain-general offline questionnaires or domain-specific online think-aloud protocols. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between metacognitive awareness and intelligence via the design and use of a novel Meta-Cognitive Awareness Scale - Domain Specific (MCAS-DS) that encourages reflection of task strategy processes. This domain-specific scale was first constructed to measure participants' awareness of their own metacognition linked to Raven's Progressive Matrices (SPM). Following discriminatory index and Exploratory Factor Analysis, a 15-item scale was derived. Exploratory Factor Analysis showed five factors: Awareness of Engagement in Self-Monitoring, Awareness of Own Ability, Awareness of Responding Speed/Time, Awareness of Alternative Solutions and Awareness of Requisite Problem-Solving Resources. The intelligence level of ninety-eight adults was then estimated using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. Participants also completed the MCAS-DS, and further items that examined their test-taking behavior and Confidence level. Metacognitive awareness was positively correlated to standardized IQ scores derived from the SPM whilst Over-Confidence derived using the Confidence level measure was negatively correlated to SPM. Despite some limitations, this study shows promise for elucidating the relationship between metacognitive awareness and intelligence using the task-specific scale.}, }
@article {pmid33474740, year = {2021}, author = {Kersten, Y and Friedrich-Müller, B and Nieder, A}, title = {A histological study of the song system of the carrion crow (Corvus corone).}, journal = {The Journal of comparative neurology}, volume = {529}, number = {10}, pages = {2576-2595}, doi = {10.1002/cne.25112}, pmid = {33474740}, issn = {1096-9861}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Female ; Male ; Neural Pathways/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Vocalization, Animal/physiology ; }, abstract = {The song system of songbirds (oscines) is one of the best studied neuroethological model systems. So far, it has been treated as a relatively constrained sensorimotor system. Songbirds such as crows, however, are also known for their capability to cognitively control their audio-vocal system. Yet, the neuroanatomy of the corvid song system has never been explored systematically. We aim to close this scientific gap by presenting a stereotactic investigation of the extended song system of the carrion crow (Corvus corone), an oscine songbird of the corvid family that has become an interesting model system for cognitive neuroscience. In order to identify and delineate the song nuclei, the ascending auditory nuclei, and the descending vocal-motor nuclei, four stains were applied. In addition to the classical Nissl-, myelin-, and a combination of Nissl-and-myelin staining, staining for tyrosine hydroxylase was used to reveal the distribution of catecholaminergic neurons (dopaminergic, noradrenergic, and adrenergic) in the song system. We show that the crow brain contains the important song-related nuclei, including auditory input and motor output structures, and map them throughout the brain. Fiber-stained sections reveal putative connection patterns between the crow's song nuclei comparable to other songbirds.}, }
@article {pmid33471214, year = {2021}, author = {Worrell, SL and Kirschner, ML and Shatz, RS and Sengupta, S and Erickson, MG}, title = {Interdisciplinary Approaches to Survivorship with a Focus on the Low-grade and Benign Brain Tumor Populations.}, journal = {Current oncology reports}, volume = {23}, number = {2}, pages = {19}, pmid = {33471214}, issn = {1534-6269}, mesh = {Adenoma/therapy ; Brain Neoplasms/pathology/*therapy ; Cancer Survivors/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Combined Modality Therapy ; Humans ; Meningeal Neoplasms/therapy ; Meningioma/therapy ; *Patient Care Team ; Pituitary Neoplasms/therapy ; Quality of Life/*psychology ; *Survivorship ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: "Brain tumor is a bump in the road." Sheryl Crow a famous singer was quoted talking about her meningioma, a benign brain tumor that caused her to forget her lyrics. In this review, we focus on low-grade gliomas in adults and benign brain tumors, such as meningiomas, vestibular schwannomas, and pituitary tumors, since these individuals survive a long time and morbidity is a major issue.<br><br>RECENT FINDINGS: As per the NCI dictionary definition, cancer survivorship focuses on the health and well-being of a person with cancer from the time of diagnosis until the end of life. This includes the physical, mental, emotional, social, and financial effects of cancer that begin at diagnosis and continue through treatment and beyond. The survivorship experience also includes issues related to follow-up care (including regular health and wellness checkups), late effects of treatment, cancer recurrence, second cancers, and quality of life. Family members, friends, and caregivers are also considered part of the survivorship experience (NCI Dictionary: https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms).}, }
@article {pmid33462775, year = {2021}, author = {Prinja, S and Singh, MP and Rajsekar, K and Sachin, O and Gedam, P and Nagar, A and Bhargava, B and , }, title = {Translating Research to Policy: Setting Provider Payment Rates for Strategic Purchasing under India's National Publicly Financed Health Insurance Scheme.}, journal = {Applied health economics and health policy}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {353-370}, pmid = {33462775}, issn = {1179-1896}, mesh = {Delivery of Health Care ; Health Services ; Humans ; *Insurance, Health ; *National Health Programs ; Policy ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In 2018, the Government of India launched Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri-Jan Aarogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), a large tax-funded health insurance scheme. In this paper, we present findings of the Costing of Health Services in India (CHSI) study, describe the process of use of cost evidence for price-setting under AB PM-JAY, and estimate its fiscal impact.<br><br>METHODS: Reference costs were generated from the first phase of CHSI study, which sampled 11 tertiary public hospitals from 11 Indian states. Cost for Health Benefit Packages (HBPs) was estimated using mixed (top-down and bottom-up) micro-costing methods. The process adopted for price-setting under AB PM-JAY was observed. The cost of each HBP was compared with AB PM-JAY prices before and after the revision, and the budgetary impact of this revision in prices was estimated.<br><br>FINDINGS: Following the CHSI study evidence and price consultations, 61% of AB PM-JAY HBP prices were increased while 18% saw a decline in the prices. In absolute terms, the mean increase in HBP price was &#x20b9;14,000 (&#x20b9;450-&#x20b9;1,65,000) and a mean decline of &#x20b9;6,356 (&#x20b9;200-&#x20b9;74,500) was observed. Nearly 42% of the total HBPs, in 2018, had a price that was less than 50% of the true cost, which declined to 20% in 2019. The evidence-informed revision of HBP prices is estimated to have a minimal fiscal impact (0.7%) on the AB PM-JAY claims pay-out.<br><br>INTERPRETATION: Evidence-informed price-setting helped to reduce wide disparities in cost and price, as well as aligning incentives towards broader health system goals. Such strategic purchasing and price-setting requires the creation of systems of generating evidence on the cost of health services. Further research is recommended to develop a cost-function to study changes in cost with variations in time, region, prices, skill-mix and other factors.}, }
@article {pmid33457825, year = {2020}, author = {Meng, D and Zhang, Z and Li, Z and Si, Y and Guo, Q and Liu, Z and Teng, L}, title = {Complete mitochondrial genome of the spotted nutcracker Nucifraga caryocatactes (Passeriformes: Corvidae) from Shan'xi Province, China.}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part B, Resources}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {2456-2457}, pmid = {33457825}, issn = {2380-2359}, abstract = {We determined the whole mtDNA genome of the Spotted Nutcracker (Nucifraga caryocatactes) in Tianlong Mountain, Shan'xi Province, China. The complete mitochondrial genome is 16,914 bp in length and consists of 13 protein-coding genes (PCGS), 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA genes, and 1 control region (D-loops). The nucleotide composition is 25.08% A, 25.08% T, 24.75% G, and 25.08% C. The result of phylogenetic analysis showed that there was close genetic relationship between N. caryocatactes and N. columbiana. It is expected that the complete mitochondrial genome presented here will contribute to the analysis of species distribution.}, }
@article {pmid33453095, year = {2021}, author = {Araco, A and Francesco, A}, title = {Prospective randomized clinical study of a new topical formulation for face wrinkle reduction and dermal regeneration.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {20}, number = {9}, pages = {2832-2840}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.13937}, pmid = {33453095}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Aged ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Prospective Studies ; Regeneration ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: A new topical formulation (TF) based on 3 main lifting components has been developed to reduce superficial facial wrinkles.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: Determine the effectiveness of this new TF in reducing superficial face wrinkles and restructuring the dermal matrix.<br><br>METHODS: Women, aged 30-65&#xa0;y.o. with moderate to severe crow's feet wrinkles were included.<br><br>EXCLUSION CRITERIA: men; younger than 30 or older than 65&#xa0;years old; smokers. Patients received 15&#xa0;IU of botulinum toxin on crow's feet and 2 creams. Fifty patients (Group 1) applied the TP (Product A) and 50 (Group 2) a placebo (Product B). Assessments were made by digital macro-photography's, Antera 3D, and a patient satisfaction questionnaire.<br><br>RESULTS: From April to June 2019, 100 women were enrolled in the study and were divided into two homogeneous groups. No major or minor side effects were reported. In group 1, wrinkles, texture, static and dynamic crow's feet wrinkles improved significantly at 3 and 6&#xa0;months. Patients were very satisfied at 3&#xa0;months and satisfied at 6&#xa0;months. In group 2, wrinkles and texture improved significantly at 3&#xa0;months but did not improve at 6&#xa0;months. Static and dynamic crow's feet wrinkles improved significantly at 1 and 3&#xa0;months but did not improve significantly at 6&#xa0;months.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our prospective and randomized study has shown that the new TF is safe and effective in reducing superficial face wrinkles and producing dermal regeneration. It, therefore, prolongs the duration of the botulinum toxin. Further controlled study would be necessary to compare the new TF to neurotoxin treatment, or its action alone.}, }
@article {pmid33450902, year = {2021}, author = {Feklicheva, I and Zakharov, I and Chipeeva, N and Maslennikova, E and Korobova, S and Adamovich, T and Ismatullina, V and Malykh, S}, title = {Assessing the Relationship between Verbal and Nonverbal Cognitive Abilities Using Resting-State EEG Functional Connectivity.}, journal = {Brain sciences}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {33450902}, issn = {2076-3425}, support = {18-013-00944//Russian Foundation for Basic Research/ ; }, abstract = {The present study investigates the relationship between individual differences in verbal and non-verbal cognitive abilities and resting-state EEG network characteristics. We used a network neuroscience approach to analyze both large-scale topological characteristics of the whole brain as well as local brain network characteristics. The characteristic path length, modularity, and cluster coefficient for different EEG frequency bands (alpha, high and low; beta1 and beta2, and theta) were calculated to estimate large-scale topological integration and segregation properties of the brain networks. Betweenness centrality, nodal clustering coefficient, and local connectivity strength were calculated as local network characteristics. We showed that global network integration measures in the alpha band were positively correlated with non-verbal intelligence, especially with the more difficult part of the test (Raven's total scores and E series), and the ability to operate with verbal information (the "Conclusions" verbal subtest). At the same time, individual differences in non-verbal intelligence (Raven's total score and C series), and vocabulary subtest of the verbal intelligence tests, were negatively correlated with the network segregation measures. Our results show that resting-state EEG functional connectivity can reveal the functional architecture associated with an individual difference in cognitive performance.}, }
@article {pmid33447925, year = {2021}, author = {Donzuso, G and Monastero, R and Cicero, CE and Luca, A and Mostile, G and Giuliano, L and Baschi, R and Caccamo, M and Gagliardo, C and Palmucci, S and Zappia, M and Nicoletti, A}, title = {Neuroanatomical changes in early Parkinson's disease with mild cognitive impairment: a VBM study; the Parkinson's Disease Cognitive Impairment Study (PaCoS).}, journal = {Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology}, volume = {42}, number = {9}, pages = {3723-3731}, pmid = {33447925}, issn = {1590-3478}, mesh = {Brain/diagnostic imaging ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnostic imaging/etiology ; Gray Matter/diagnostic imaging ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Parkinson Disease/complications/diagnostic imaging ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is common in Parkinson's disease (PD), but the underlying pathological mechanism has not been fully understood. Voxel-based morphometry could be used to evaluate regional atrophy and its relationship with cognitive performances in early PD-MCI.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: One hundred and six patients with PD were recruited from a larger cohort of patients, the Parkinson's Disease Cognitive Impairment Study (PaCoS). Subject underwent a T1-3D MRI and a complete clinical and neuropsychological evaluation. Patients were divided into PD with normal cognition (PD-NC) and PD-MCI according to the MDS level II criteria-modified for PD-MCI. A subgroup of early patients with short disease duration (&#x2264;&#x2009;2&#xa0;years) was also identified. VBM analysis between PD-NC and PD-MCI and between early PD-NC and PD-MCI was performed using two-sample t tests with whole-brain statistical threshold of p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001 uncorrected in the entire PD group and p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05 FWE inside ROIs, in the early PD.<br><br>RESULTS: Forty patients were diagnosed with MCI and 66 were PD-NC. PD-MCI patients showed significant gray matter (GM) reduction in several brain regions, including frontal gyrus, precuneus, angular gyrus, temporal lobe, and cerebellum. Early PD-MCI showed reduction in GM density in superior frontal gyrus and cerebellum. Moreover, correlation analysis between neuropsychological performances and GM volume of early PD-MCI patients showed associations between performances of Raven and superior frontal gyrus volume, Stroop time and inferior frontal gyrus volume, accuracy of Barrage and volume of precuneus.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The detection of frontal and cerebellar atrophy, even at an early stage, could be used as an early marker of PD-related cognitive impairment.}, }
@article {pmid33445579, year = {2021}, author = {Martin, C and Simonds, VW and Young, SL and Doyle, J and Lefthand, M and Eggers, MJ}, title = {Our Relationship to Water and Experience of Water Insecurity among Apsáalooke (Crow Indian) People, Montana.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {18}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {33445579}, issn = {1660-4601}, support = {P20 GM104417/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; P20GM104417/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; 1P50ES026102/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; *Drinking Water ; Humans ; *Indians, North American ; Montana ; Water Insecurity ; Water Supply ; }, abstract = {Affordable access to safe drinking water is essential to community health, yet there is limited understanding of water insecurity among Native Americans. Therefore, the focus of this paper is to describe Apsáalooke (Crow Indian) tribal members' experiences with water insecurity. For Apsáalooke people, local rivers and springs are still vitally important for traditional cultural activities. We interviewed 30 Native American adults living on the Crow Reservation in Southeastern Montana. Participants answered six open-ended interview questions about their water access, costs of obtaining water and changes in their domestic and traditional water uses. Participants emphasized how the use of water has changed over time and described the complex challenges associated with addressing water insecurity in their community, including the importance of considering the spiritual and cultural impacts of water insecurity on health. Water insecurity is a growing global problem and more attention and efforts are needed to find appropriate and affordable solutions.}, }
@article {pmid33444862, year = {2021}, author = {Rial-Berriel, C and Acosta-Dacal, A and Cabrera Pérez, M&#xc1; and Suárez-Pérez, A and Melián Melián, A and Zumbado, M and Henríquez Hernández, LA and Ruiz-Suárez, N and Rodriguez Hernández, &#xc1; and Boada, LD and Macías Montes, A and Luzardo, OP}, title = {Intensive livestock farming as a major determinant of the exposure to anticoagulant rodenticides in raptors of the Canary Islands (Spain).}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {768}, number = {}, pages = {144386}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.144386}, pmid = {33444862}, issn = {1879-1026}, mesh = {Animals ; Anticoagulants ; Europe ; Farms ; Livestock ; *Raptors ; *Rodenticides ; Spain ; }, abstract = {The Canary Islands (Spain) is a biodiversity hotspot, with more than 4500 registered endemic species. However, it is subject to high anthropogenic pressure that threatens its wildlife in various ways. In the context of forensic toxicological surveys, the presence of anticoagulant rodenticides (AR) has been investigated in the liver of 831 animal carcasses with georeferenced data from 2011 to May 2020. The high concentrations of toxic pesticides in carcasses and in baits found close to the corpses indicated that all the reptiles and most of the mammals tested positive for AR were intentionally poisoned, although mainly by other substances. The frequency of detection of AR in non-raptor birds (n = 343) was only 4.1%, being the Canary raven the most frequently affected species (7/97, 7.2%). On the contrary, in raptors (n = 308) the detection frequency was almost 60%, with an average of more than 2 ARs per animal. The highest concentrations were found in the common kestrel. We present for the first-time results of AR contamination in two species of raptors that are very rare in Europe, Eleonora's falcon (n = 4) and Barbary falcon (n = 13). The temporal trend of positive cases remains stable, but since the entry into force of the restriction to the concentration of the active ingredient in baits (<30 ppm), a decrease in the concentrations of these compounds in the raptors' liver has been detected. Conversely, we registered an increase in the number of ARs per animal. From the study of the geographic information system (GIS) it can be deduced that intensive livestock farms are an important determinant in the exposure of raptors to ARs. Those birds that have their territory near intensive production farms have higher levels of exposure than those of birds that live far from such facilities.}, }
@article {pmid33444031, year = {2021}, author = {Tornick, J and Gibson, B}, title = {Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana) use a visual barrier for cache protection.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {135}, number = {2}, pages = {170-175}, doi = {10.1037/com0000262}, pmid = {33444031}, issn = {1939-2087}, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior ; *Passeriformes ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {Previous work with corvids such as scrub jays (Aphelocoma californica) and ravens (Corvus corax) suggests that many social corvids alter their caching behavior when observed by conspecifics to protect their caches. We examined whether the Clark's nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana), an asocial corvid, can utilize a barrier to conceal its caching activities from a conspecific observer. Nutcrackers were allowed to cache nuts in a visible or concealed location in either the presence or absence of an observer. Nutcrackers were also given experience of having their caches pilfered. The nutcrackers cached significantly more nuts in the concealed compared to a visible location when observed. Importantly, nutcrackers also recovered a larger percentage of their nuts 24 hr later from a visible cache location but when the observer was no longer present. The results extend recent work suggesting that relatively nonsocial corvids, similar to their more social relatives, also engage in multiple forms of cache protection. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid33442816, year = {2021}, author = {Schuster, RK and Wibbelt, G}, title = {Redescription of Serratospiculum seurati Bain &amp; Mawson, 1981 (Nematoda; Diplotriaenidae) from Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus Tunstall, 1771).}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {120}, number = {3}, pages = {941-948}, pmid = {33442816}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Falconiformes/*parasitology ; Female ; Male ; Mice ; Microscopy ; Pakistan ; Spirurina/*classification/cytology/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Air sac nematodes from birds are known for more than 200 years now and Filaria attenuata was the first described species from falcons, owl and corvid birds. The superficial description and the loss of the original material made F. attenuata a species inquirenda. Seurat (1915) redescribed the species with material from lanner falcon and pallid harrier from Algeria and based on this description Bain and Mawson, Rec S Aust Mus 18:265-28, (1981) created a new species, Serratospiculum seurati, by adding some, slightly divergent, measurements. The current paper is based on light and scanning electron microscopy of five male and 10 female S. seurati specimens from a Peregrine falcon that acquired the infection in Pakistan. The length of the slender male and female nematodes varied between 42-70 and 165-221 mm, respectively, spicules of unequal shape and length measured 292-325 and 638-785 μm. S. seurati was also found in Saker, Barbary and crossbreed falcons.}, }
@article {pmid33436969, year = {2021}, author = {Amodio, P and Brea, J and Farrar, BG and Ostojić, L and Clayton, NS}, title = {Testing two competing hypotheses for Eurasian jays' caching for the future.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {835}, pmid = {33436969}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {BB/M011194/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {Previous research reported that corvids preferentially cache food in a location where no food will be available or cache more of a specific food in a location where this food will not be available. Here, we consider possible explanations for these prospective caching behaviours and directly compare two competing hypotheses. The Compensatory Caching Hypothesis suggests that birds learn to cache more of a particular food in places where that food was less frequently available in the past. In contrast, the Future Planning Hypothesis suggests that birds recall the 'what-when-where' features of specific past events to predict the future availability of food. We designed a protocol in which the two hypotheses predict different caching patterns across different caching locations such that the two explanations can be disambiguated. We formalised the hypotheses in a Bayesian model comparison and tested this protocol in two experiments with one of the previously tested species, namely Eurasian jays. Consistently across the two experiments, the observed caching pattern did not support either hypothesis; rather it was best explained by a uniform distribution of caches over the different caching locations. Future research is needed to gain more insight into the cognitive mechanism underpinning corvids' caching for the future.}, }
@article {pmid33436920, year = {2021}, author = {Zhang, Y and Yu, C and Chen, L and Li, Z}, title = {Performance of Azure-winged magpies in Aesop's fable paradigm.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {804}, pmid = {33436920}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Learning/*physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; }, abstract = {In this study, the improved Aesop's fable paradigm-a series of experiments originally used to test whether some animals understand the causality associated with water replacement-was used to explore the cognitive ability of Azure-winged magpies (Cyanopica cyanus). Experimental results on causal cue tasks showed that the Azure-winged magpies prefer water-filled tubes over sand-filled tubes, heavy objects over light objects, and solid objects over hollow objects. However, they failed to notice the diameter and water level of the tubes. They also failed to pass the counterintuitive U-shaped tube task in arbitrary cue tasks. Our results demonstrated that Azure-winged magpies have a certain cognitive ability but not an understanding of causality, a characteristic comparable to that of other corvids. Moreover, Azure-winged magpies exhibited the ability of training transfer and analogical problem solving from the perspective of cognitive psychology. We believe that object-bias has little effect on Azure-winged magpies in this study. We can conclude that the Azure-winged magpies partially completed the tasks by trial-and-error learning.}, }
@article {pmid33425589, year = {2020}, author = {Trevidic, P and Andre, P and Benadiba, L and Deutsch, JJ and Galatoire, O and Garcia, P and Grand-Vincent, A and Boisnic, S and Salomon, C and Fanian, F}, title = {Objective 18-month Comparison of the Tolerability of 2 Dermal Fillers Formulated with Tri-Hyal Technology.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open}, volume = {8}, number = {12}, pages = {e3274}, pmid = {33425589}, issn = {2169-7574}, abstract = {UNLABELLED: The first phase of this study showed that ART FILLER Universal filler (AFU; FILORGA Laboratories) and ART FILLER Fine lines (AFFL) were non-inferior to JUVÉDERM Ultra 3 (Allergan) and FIRST LINES PureSense (Teoxane), respectively. The clinical benefits of AFU and AFFL on nasolabial folds and crow's feet persisted until at least Day 180. This article reports results from an open-label extension phase that assessed the tolerability and efficacy of AFU and AFFL for up to 18 months based on clinical evaluation and ultrasound high-frequency imaging.<br><br>METHODS: Eligible subjects were enrolled at D180 and assessed on D270, D360, and D540. The primary outcome measured was local tolerability. Secondary outcomes measured included: proportion of subjects in whom the severity of nasolabial folds and crow's feet remained at least 1 point below the baseline measurement (Lemperle scale); general safety; Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale scores by subjects and investigators; wrinkle volumes; and skin thickness by high-frequency ultrasound.<br><br>RESULTS: Adverse events were consistent with the product information and the initial study. No serious adverse events were recorded. In exploratory analyses, wrinkle correction with AFU and AFFL is sustained for at least 18 months: 48.4% and 98.3% of subjects respectively still showed at least a 1-point decrease in the mean Lemperle score compared with the baseline. The benefits were sustained irrespective of whether subjects received additional injections. Modifications in wrinkle volume and skin thickness at D540 were statistically significant compared with the baseline.<br><br>CONCLUSION: AFU and AFFL were well tolerated and, in exploratory analyses, showed a sustained efficacy for at least 18 months.}, }
@article {pmid33424476, year = {2021}, author = {Mazzia, F and De Armond, M}, title = {Causality dilemma: creating a twenty-first century university archive.}, journal = {Journal of the Medical Library Association : JMLA}, volume = {109}, number = {1}, pages = {137-140}, doi = {10.5195/jmla.2021.1056}, pmid = {33424476}, issn = {1558-9439}, mesh = {*Archives ; Computer-Assisted Instruction/standards ; Hospitals, University/*organization &amp; administration ; Humans ; Information Storage and Retrieval/*standards ; Libraries, Digital/*organization &amp; administration ; Universities ; }, abstract = {For its fifteenth anniversary, the Jay Sexter Library at Touro University Nevada (TUN) sought ways to capture its institutional history by founding an archive. Among many challenges, the library struggled to convince the administration of the importance of an archive. To generate interest in TUN's history, a task force comprising library, executive administration, and advancement staff hosted and recorded a panel event with some of the university's original faculty, staff, and administration. By having this event, new TUN employees were able to experience the shared knowledge of TUN's early days, and the library was able to create and preserve its own institutional history.}, }
@article {pmid33424448, year = {2020}, author = {Sehanovic, A and Smajlovic, D and Tupkovic, E and Ibrahimagic, OC and Kunic, S and Dostovic, Z and Zoletic, E and Pasic, Z}, title = {Cognitive Disorders in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis.}, journal = {Materia socio-medica}, volume = {32}, number = {3}, pages = {191-195}, pmid = {33424448}, issn = {1512-7680}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, inflammatory, (auto) immune disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Cognitive disorders are found in over 50% of patients.<br><br>AIM: The aim of the study was to determine the distribution of cognitive disorders in people with MS.<br><br>METHODS: The prospective study included 135 respondents with MS and 50 healthy respondents. The respondents were divided into three groups: the first group consisted of 85 respondents where the disease lasted longer than one year, the second group consisted of 50 respondents with newly diagnosed MS, the third group consisted of 50 healthy respondents. Clinical assessment instruments were: Extended Disability Score in Multiple Sclerosis Patients, Mini Mental Status, Battery of Tests to Assess Cognitive Functions: Wechsler Intelligence Scale, Revised Beta Test, Raven Colored Progressive Matrices, Wechsler Memory Scale, Rey Audio Verbal Learning Test -Osterriecht's complex character test, verbal fluency test.<br><br>RESULTS: Cognitive disorders were present in 40-60% of respondents with MS. Visuospatial, visuoconstructive and visuoperceptive functions are worse in the first group. Mnestic functions (learning process, short-term and long-term memory, recollection, verbal-logical memory) were most affected in both groups of respondents, ranging from 30-60%. Poorer cognitive domains are in the first groups of respondents. Immediate working process memory (current learning), memory, attention, short-term and logical memory is worse in the examinees of the first group. At the beginning of the disease, 16% had verbal fluency difficulties, and as the disease progresses, the difficulties become more pronounced.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Cognitive disorders are heterogeneous, they can be noticed in the early stages of the disease. They refer to impairments of working memory, executive functions and attention, while global intellectual efficiency is later reduced.}, }
@article {pmid33420859, year = {2021}, author = {Wenig, K and Boucherie, PH and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Early evidence for emotional play contagion in juvenile ravens.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {24}, number = {4}, pages = {717-729}, pmid = {33420859}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {W 1262/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; *Crows ; Emotions ; Empathy ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Perceiving, evaluating and reacting towards conspecifics' emotional states are important challenges of social group living. Emotional contagion describes an alignment of emotional states between individuals and is widely believed to be based on behavioral synchronization, i.e., behavioral contagion. As basic empathy-like processes, the occurrence of both forms of contagion seems to underlie early ontogenetic trajectories in humans and non-human species. In the present study, we assessed play as a context for studying the development of emotional contagion and its interlink with behavioral contagion in ten juvenile common ravens. Ravens are exceptional players that engage in all three forms of play: object, locomotion and social play. To assess potential ontogenetic patterns of both behavioral and emotional contagion, we tested juvenile ravens at two different periods of early development, at three- and six-month post-hatching. We elicited object play in one or several ravens (demonstrators) in a standardized experimental environment, using a playground setup. At both test ages, we found evidence for emotional contagion as observer ravens showed an increase of locomotion and social play after we provided the demonstrator(s) with the playground setup, but no significant changes in the amount of object play. Hence, observers did not copy motor patterns from demonstrator(s) but engaged in other forms of play. Our findings speak for a transfer of a general mood state in the context of play in ravens as young as 3 months and against behavioral mimicry as a precondition for emotional contagion.}, }
@article {pmid33420703, year = {2021}, author = {Gallego-Abenza, M and Blum, CR and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Who is crying wolf? Seasonal effect on antipredator response to age-specific alarm calls in common ravens, Corvus corax.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {49}, number = {1}, pages = {159-167}, pmid = {33420703}, issn = {1543-4508}, support = {P 29705/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; *Crows ; *Predatory Behavior ; Seasons ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Communication about threats including those posed by the presence of predators occurs mainly through acoustic signals called alarm calls. The comprehension of these calls by receivers and their rapid antipredator response are crucial in terms of survival. However, to avoid overreaction, individuals should evaluate whether or not an antipredator response is needed by paying attention to who is calling. For instance, we could expect adults to be more experienced with predator encounters than juveniles and thus elicit stronger antipredator responses in others when alarming. Similarly, we could expect a stronger response to alarm calls when more than one individual is calling. To test these assumptions, we applied a playback experiment to wild ravens, in which we manipulated the age class (adult or juvenile) and the number (one or two) of the callers. Our results revealed a seasonal effect of age class but no effect of number of callers. Specifically, the ravens responded with stronger antipredator behaviour (vigilance posture) towards alarm calls from adults as compared to juveniles in summer and autumn, but not in spring. We discuss alternative interpretations for this unexpected seasonal pattern and argue for more studies on call-based communication in birds to understand what type of information is relevant under which conditions.}, }
@article {pmid33408830, year = {2020}, author = {Murniastuti, DS and Etnawati, K and Pudjiati, SR}, title = {The correlation between severity of melasma with facial wrinkles in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.}, journal = {Dermatology reports}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {8390}, pmid = {33408830}, issn = {2036-7392}, abstract = {Melasma is a common disfiguring condition involving acquired hyperpigmentation especially on the face, for which the pathogenesis is still uncertain, however histopathological studies showed that there is not only hyperpigmentation in the epidermis, but also solar elastosis or photo-aging due to abnormality of dermal extracellular matrix which contributes to clinical wrinkles. This study aimed to examine a link between the severity of melasma and facial wrinkles as a manifestation of photoaging in a tropical area. This study was an observational study with crosssectional design, conducted in Yogyakarta, Indonesia involving 51 patients with melasma aged 30-50 years who had fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The melasma severity was measured clinically with the modified Melasma Severity Index (mMASI), and objectively with the Melanin Index (MI) and Erythema Index (EI) assessed with Mexameter Courage Khazaka. The wrinkle severity was measured clinically by scoring from forehead horizontal lines, crow's feet, glabellar and nasolabial lines, and total scores were obtained from all of them. The correlation analysis was done statistically with Spearman's rank tests. The results showed a weak positive but not significant correlation between the mMASI score and total facial wrinkle score (r: 0.165), and a weak positive non-significant correlation between EI and total facial wrinkle score (r: 0.06). There were significant positive moderate correlations between MI and total facial wrinkle score (r: 0.441), due to significant positive moderate correlations between MI and glabella wrinkle (r: 0.392), and between MI and nasolabial wrinkle (r: 0.339). In conclusion, a positive moderate correlation was found between MI and total facial wrinkle score, especially relating to glabellar and nasolabial wrinkles. However, there was no correlation between mMASI score and total facial wrinkle score.}, }
@article {pmid33402613, year = {2020}, author = {Kumar, RK and Reddy, KS and Reddy, NV and Karthik, T and Reddy, MA and Nagakishore, }, title = {Relationship between dental fluorosis and I.Q of school going children aged 10-12 years in and around Nalgonda district-A cross-sectional study.}, journal = {Journal of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry}, volume = {38}, number = {4}, pages = {332-337}, doi = {10.4103/JISPPD.JISPPD_160_20}, pmid = {33402613}, issn = {1998-3905}, mesh = {Aged ; Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Fluorides/adverse effects ; *Fluorosis, Dental/epidemiology ; Humans ; India/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; Schools ; Water Supply ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The fluoride ion toxicity has been associated with both dental fluorosis and neurotoxicity; dental fluorosis has tended to be considered with respect to tooth appearance and function rather than as a marker for neurotoxicity.<br><br>AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the intelligence quotient (IQ) of school-going children aged 10-12 years in villages of Nalgonda district with different fluoride levels.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among the permanent residents of Nalgonda district of Telangana state, India. A total of 480 government schoolchildren aged 10-12 years were selected by stratified random sampling from three different areas with different levels of naturally occurring fluoride in drinking water. Intelligence levels were assessed by conducting the Ravens standard progressive matrices test (1991 edition).<br><br>STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: The data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA), Student's t-test, and Krustal-Wallis ANOVA. A logistic regression model was performed (SPSS version; 21(IBM corporation, Chicago,IL, USA)).<br><br>RESULTS: The mean IQ levels were more in the villages with low fluoride concentration in drinking water (15.26) compared to villages with medium fluoride content (12.91) and high fluoride content (9.1). A significant statistical association was found (P < 0.001).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The overall IQ levels in children exposed to high fluoride level significantly lower than the low fluoride areas. Thus, children intelligence can be affected by high water fluoride levels.}, }
@article {pmid33391363, year = {2020}, author = {Gao, LF and Zhang, W and Zhang, HY and Zhu, ZQ and Zhang, XD and Du, B}, title = {Parental dependence on the nest's spatial cues in offspring recognition decreases with nestling growth in the azure-winged magpie.}, journal = {Current zoology}, volume = {66}, number = {6}, pages = {643-648}, pmid = {33391363}, issn = {1674-5507}, abstract = {In altricial birds, to address which cues are used by parents to recognize their offspring, and when they switch between cues during reproduction, it has not been well determined. In this study, we address this question in a Tibetan population of the azure-winged magpie Cyanopica cyanus, by examining the dependence of parents on a nest's spatial position in offspring recognition. During the egg and nestling phases, azure-winged magpie nests were translocated to new positions across various distances from their original site, and parental responses to the translocated nests were investigated. Our findings show that a nest's spatial position is not connected with the survival of its young, but might be used as a cue in parental offspring recognition. When nests are translocated to a new position within a certain distance, parents could recognize their nests and returned to resume their parenting behaviors. Parental dependence on the nest's spatial position in offspring recognition is higher during the egg phase than during the nestling phase, and it decreases with the growth of nestlings. After nestlings reach a certain age, the nest' s spatial position was no longer used by parents as the single cue for offspring recognition. These findings suggest that azure-winged magpies switch their cues in offspring recognition during the different stages of reproduction. After parent-offspring communication has been established, the offspring's phenotypic traits may become a more reliable cue than the nest's spatial position in offspring recognition.}, }
@article {pmid33385935, year = {2021}, author = {Sarker, S and Athukorala, A and Raidal, SR}, title = {Molecular characterisation of a novel pathogenic avipoxvirus from an Australian passerine bird, mudlark (Grallina cyanoleuca).}, journal = {Virology}, volume = {554}, number = {}, pages = {66-74}, doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2020.12.011}, pmid = {33385935}, issn = {1096-0341}, mesh = {Animals ; *Avipoxvirus/classification/genetics/pathogenicity/ultrastructure ; Bird Diseases/pathology/*virology ; Evolution, Molecular ; Genes, Viral ; Genome, Viral ; Passeriformes/*virology ; Phylogeny ; Poxviridae Infections/pathology/*veterinary/virology ; Virion/ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {Avipoxviruses have been recognised as significant pathogens in the conservation of numerous bird species. However, the vast majority of the avipoxviruses that infect wild birds remain uncharacterised. Here, we characterise a novel avipoxvirus, mudlarkpox virus (MLPV) isolated from an Australian passerine bird, mudlark (Grallina cyanoleuca). In this study, tissues with histopathologically confirmed lesions consistent with avian pox were used for transmission electron microscopy, and showed characteristic ovoid to brick-shaped virions, indicative of infectious particles. The MLPV genome was >342.7 Kbp in length and contained six predicted novel genes and a further six genes were missing compared to shearwaterpox virus-2 (SWPV-2). Subsequent phylogenetic analyses of the MLPV genome positioned the virus within a distinct subclade also containing recently characterised avipoxvirus genomes from shearwater, canary and magpie bird species, and demonstrated a high degree of sequence similarity with SWPV-2 (94.92%).}, }
@article {pmid33378223, year = {2021}, author = {Lizzio, VA and Smith, DG and Guo, EW and Cross, AG and Gulledge, CM and Koolmees, DS and Chalmers, PN and Makhni, EC}, title = {The Effect of the Crow Hop on Elbow Stress During an Interval Throwing Program.}, journal = {The American journal of sports medicine}, volume = {49}, number = {2}, pages = {359-363}, doi = {10.1177/0363546520976629}, pmid = {33378223}, issn = {1552-3365}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Baseball ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Elbow ; Elbow Joint/*physiology ; Humans ; Torque ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Postoperative rehabilitation protocols after ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction typically involve a structured interval throwing program. In an effort to minimize torque placed on the UCL, athletes are often instructed to throw with a crow hop, even at short throwing distances. However, the effect of the crow hop on medial elbow stress is unknown.<br><br>PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS: The purpose was to determine whether elbow stress differs with and without a crow hop across the throwing distances of a typical interval throwing program. We hypothesized that crow hop throws would generate lower torque on the elbow than standing throws at each distance of the interval throwing program.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study.<br><br>METHODS: Healthy high school and collegiate pitchers and position players were recruited from the surrounding area. Each player was outfitted with a wearable athletic sleeve and device that recorded elbow torque (Newton-meters), arm slot (degrees), arm speed (revolutions per minute), and shoulder rotation (degrees). Ball velocity (miles per hour) was measured using a radar gun. Players were instructed to perform 3 crow hop throws and 3 standing throws at distances of 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 150, and 180 feet. A repeated measures analysis of variance was used to compare ball velocity, elbow torque, arm slot, arm speed, and shoulder rotation between crow hop and standing throws at each throwing distance.<br><br>RESULTS: Twenty athletes participated in this study (average age, 17.8 years; range, 15-25 years). The average medial elbow torque increased at each distance for both crow hop and standing throws at distances of 30, 45, 60, and 90 feet (P < .05), after which there were no significant increases in elbow torque (P > .05). The average torque was higher for crow hop throws than standing throws at distances of 30 feet (13.9 N&#xb7;m vs 12.0 N&#xb7;m; P = .002), 45 feet (21.8 N&#xb7;m vs 19.3 N&#xb7;m; P = .005), and 60 feet (28.0 N&#xb7;m vs 24.5 N&#xb7;m; P = .02).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Crow hop throws generated greater medial elbow torque than standing throws at distances up to 60 feet; however, there were no differences in elbow torque at distances greater than 60 feet between the 2 throw types. For both crow hop and standing throws, elbow stress increased at each distance interval up to 90 feet before plateauing at distances greater than 90 feet. The crow hop throwing technique does not reduce medial elbow stress during a simulated interval throwing program, and it may actually increase torque at shorter throwing distances.<br><br>CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The results of our study indicate that it would be prudent for players to initially perform standing throws at shorter distances and only later be allowed to employ a natural crow hop at greater distances to minimize torque placed on the medial elbow during UCL rehabilitation protocols.}, }
@article {pmid33372273, year = {2021}, author = {Blakey, ML}, title = {Understanding racism in physical (biological) anthropology.}, journal = {American journal of physical anthropology}, volume = {175}, number = {2}, pages = {316-325}, doi = {10.1002/ajpa.24208}, pmid = {33372273}, issn = {1096-8644}, mesh = {Humans ; *Anthropology, Physical/history ; *Racism ; History, 20th Century ; }, abstract = {The mainstream of American physical anthropology began as racist and eugenical science that defended slavery, restricted "non-Nordic" immigration, and justified Jim Crow segregation. After World War II, the field became more anti-racial than anti-racist. It has continued as a study of natural influences on human variation and thus continues to evade the social histories of inequitable biological variation. Also reflecting its occupancy of white space, biological anthropology continues to deny its own racist history and marginalizes the contributions of Blacks. Critical disciplinary history and a shift toward biocultural studies might begin an anti-racist human biology.}, }
@article {pmid33367109, year = {2020}, author = {Kryukov, AP and Spiridonova, LN and Tyunin, AP and Kryukov, KA and Dorda, BA}, title = {Complete mitochondrial genomes of five subspecies of the Eurasian magpie Pica pica, obtained with Oxford Nanopore MinION, and their interpretation regarding intraspecific taxonomy.}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part B, Resources}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {3810-3811}, pmid = {33367109}, issn = {2380-2359}, abstract = {The complete mitochondrial (mt) genomes of five subspecies of the Eurasian (Common) magpie Pica pica were determined for the first time. Lengths of the circular genomes comprise 13 protein-coding genes, two rRNA genes (for 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA), 22 tRNA genes, and the non-coding control region (CR). Gene content and lengths of the genomes (16,936-16,945 bp) are similar to typical vertebrate mt genomes. The subspecies studied differs by several single substitutions and indels, especially in the CR. The phylogenetic tree based on complete mt genomes shows a deep divergence of the two groups of subspecies which supports the proposed division into two distinct species: P. pica and P. serica.}, }
@article {pmid33366575, year = {2020}, author = {Zhao, C and Dou, H and Du, P and Liu, Z and Zhang, L and Zhang, H}, title = {The complete mitochondrial genome of Daurian jackdaw (Corvus dauuricus).}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part B, Resources}, volume = {5}, number = {1}, pages = {400-401}, pmid = {33366575}, issn = {2380-2359}, abstract = {In this study, the complete mitochondrial genome of Daurian jackdaw (Corvus dauuricus, Pallas, 1776) was sequenced and deposited to GeneBank for the first time using muscle tissue. This mitochondrial genome is a circular molecule of 16921 bp in length and sequence analysis showed it contains 2 rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes, 13 protein-coding genes and D_loop. The phylogenetic analysis basis of 12 protein-coding genes except for ND6 gene of 13 species shows that most of the genus of Corvus were grouped into two clades, and C. dauuricus was basal to all other Corvus.}, }
@article {pmid33366551, year = {2019}, author = {Iqbal, F and Ayub, Q and Song, BK and Wilson, R and Fahim, M and Rahman, S}, title = {Sequence and phylogeny of the complete mitochondrial genome of the Himalayan jungle crow (Corvidae: Corvus macrorhynchos intermedius) from Pakistan.}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part B, Resources}, volume = {5}, number = {1}, pages = {348-350}, pmid = {33366551}, issn = {2380-2359}, abstract = {Corvus macrorhynchos formerly referred to as the jungle crow or the large-billed crow is a polytypic species with unresolved taxonomy, comprising various subspecies widespread across South, Southeast, and East Asia. In this study, we report the complete mitogenome of one of these subspecies, Corvus macrorhynchos intermedius (Himalaya crow), from Pakistan. The mitochondrial genome is circular, 16,927 bp and contains typical animal mitochondrial genes (13 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNA, and 22 transfer RNA) and one non-coding region (D-loop) with a nucleotide content of A (30.6%), T (24.8%), G (14.8%), and C (29.8%). Phylogenetic analysis using the whole mitochondrial genome showed that C. m. intermedius and only reported subspecies Corvus macrorhynchos culminatus (Indian Jungle crow) are genetically distinct and it supports the recognition of the latter as a separate biospecies.}, }
@article {pmid33364368, year = {2020}, author = {Bauer, D and Germano, M and Stierlin, J and Brem, B and Stöckli, Y and Schnabel, KP}, title = {Delivering a geriatric OSCE station in times of Covid-19 using makeup artistry.}, journal = {GMS journal for medical education}, volume = {37}, number = {7}, pages = {Doc89}, pmid = {33364368}, issn = {2366-5017}, mesh = {COVID-19/*epidemiology ; Clinical Competence ; Education, Medical/*organization &amp; administration ; Educational Measurement/*methods ; Geriatrics/*education ; Humans ; Pandemics ; *Patient Simulation ; SARS-CoV-2 ; }, abstract = {In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, people over 65 or suffering from certain conditions were deemed at high risk and asked to isolate themselves. This led to the simulated patient (SP) program at the University of Bern being depleted of middle-aged and elderly SP. Meanwhile, an OSCE had to be delivered using adapted cases that minimized physical contact between candidates and SP. Short of suitable cases at such short notice, the case of an elderly patient with postural instability had to be added to the exam blueprint. With elderly SP off the roster, it was decided to use makeup effects to achieve visual authenticity. A combination of wigs (grey hair, hairdo), 3D Probondo transfers (forehead wrinkles), old age stipple (crow's feet), and colouring (age spots) were used to achieve the old-age effects, while SPs wore scarves to cover their neckline. The lower face was covered with protective face masks in accordance with the exam's Covid-19 hygiene protocol. Case-related feedback from candidates and examiners was analysed for any direct or indirect remark attributable to the ageing effects. As no comment touched upon the subject of the appearance of age, this was interpreted as success, as any distracting effect from the SPs' appearance in this regard would surely have prompted remarks or even complaints. The SPs' feedback revealed how applying the ageing effects helped them adopt the octogenarian's role. This report explains how SP in their fifties were made fit for an octogenarian's case in an OSCE using makeup effects. The effort required for the ageing simulation was considerable, but it is hoped that in future, with more planning time, the amount of effort required can be reduced. The feedback obtained from the candidates suggest the appearance of SPs was not experienced as a distraction, which was the primary objective of this exercise. Adapting our approach to their own contexts allows educators to include cases with elderly patients in their OSCE that cannot be re-written for younger SP, so long as Covid-19 prevents elderly SP from participating.}, }
@article {pmid33362034, year = {2021}, author = {Kumar, RR and Tsang, HK}, title = {High-extinction CROW filters for scalable quantum photonics.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {46}, number = {1}, pages = {134-137}, doi = {10.1364/OL.409784}, pmid = {33362034}, issn = {1539-4794}, abstract = {We report an integrated tunable-bandwidth optical filter with a passband to stop-band ratio of over 96 dB using a single silicon chip with an ultra-compact footprint. The integrated filter is used in filtering out the pump photons in non-degenerate spontaneous four-wave mixing (SFWM), which is used for producing correlated photon pairs at different wavelengths. SFWM occurs in a long silicon waveguide, and two cascaded second-order coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) filters were used to spectrally remove the pump photons. The tunable bandwidth of the filter is useful to adjust the coherence time of the quantum correlated photons and may find applications in large-scale integrated quantum photonic circuits.}, }
@article {pmid33360592, year = {2021}, author = {Zhao, L and Yu, C and Lv, J and Cui, Y and Wang, Y and Hou, C and Yu, J and Guo, B and Liu, H and Li, L}, title = {Fluoride exposure, dopamine relative gene polymorphism and intelligence: A cross-sectional study in China.}, journal = {Ecotoxicology and environmental safety}, volume = {209}, number = {}, pages = {111826}, doi = {10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111826}, pmid = {33360592}, issn = {1090-2414}, mesh = {Child ; China/epidemiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Dopamine/*genetics ; Drinking Water ; Environmental Exposure/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; Fluorides/analysis/*toxicity ; Genotype ; Humans ; Intelligence/*drug effects ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Polymorphism, Genetic ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Excessive fluoride exposure is related to adverse health outcomes, but whether dopamine (DA) relative genes are involved in the health effect of low-moderate fluoride exposure on children's intelligence remain unclear.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: We conducted a cross-sectional study to explore the role of DA relative genes in the health effect of low-moderate fluoride exposure in drinking water.<br><br>METHODS: We recruited 567 resident children, aged 6-11 years old, randomly from endemic and non-endemic fluorosis areas in Tianjin, China. Spot urine samples were tested for urinary fluoride concentration, combined Raven`s test was used for intelligence quotient test. Fasting venous blood were collected to analyze ANKK1 Taq1A (rs1800497), COMT Val158Met (rs4680), DAT1 40&#xa0;bp VNTR and MAOA uVNTR. Multivariable linear regression models were used to assess associations between fluoride exposure and IQ scores. We applied multiplicative and additive models to appraise single gene-environment interaction. Generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction (GMDR) was used to evaluate high-dimensional interactions of gene-gene and gene-environment.<br><br>RESULTS: In adjusted model, fluoride exposure was inversely associated with IQ scores (&#x3b2;&#xa0;=&#xa0;-5.957, 95% CI: -9.712, -2.202). The mean IQ scores of children with high-activity MAOA genotype was significantly lower than IQ scores of those with low-activity (P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.006) or female heterozygote (P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.016) genotype. We detected effect modification by four DA relative genes (ANKK1, COMT, DAT1 and MAOA) on the association between UF and IQ scores. We also found a high-dimensional gene-environment interaction among UF, ANKK1, COMT and MAOA on the effect of IQ (testing balanced accuracy = 0.5302, CV consistency: 10/10, P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.0107).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggests DA relative genes may modify the association between fluoride and intelligence, and a potential interaction among fluoride exposure and DA relative genes on IQ.}, }
@article {pmid33353351, year = {2021}, author = {Kong, Z and Mo, Y and Zhang, Z and Jiang, J}, title = {Neurocognitive improvement after angioplasty in patients with chronic middle cerebral artery stenosis and cerebral ischemia.}, journal = {Annals of palliative medicine}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {1642-1649}, doi = {10.21037/apm-20-15}, pmid = {33353351}, issn = {2224-5839}, mesh = {Aged ; Angioplasty ; *Brain Ischemia/diagnostic imaging/therapy ; Constriction, Pathologic ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Middle Cerebral Artery ; Stents ; Treatment Outcome ; United States ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The use of middle cerebral artery (MCA) angioplasty compared with drug therapy has been controversial. Few studies have reported the correlations between cognitive function improvement and MCA angioplasty. This study aimed to explore neurocognitive function after angioplasty in patients with middle cerebral artery stenosis (MCAS) and objective cerebral ischemia.<br><br>METHODS: We identified 14 patients diagnosed with MCAS aged 45-65 years. Neurocognitive function evaluation was performed by 2 independent clinical psychologists using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal cognitive assessment scale (MoCA), and Multi-Dimensional Psychology. All patients received general anesthesia, underwent diagnostic cerebral angiography (DSA) via the femoral route and angioplasty, and then were sent to the neurologic intensive care unit (NICU) for overnight hemodynamic and neurologic monitoring. Aspirin and clopidogrel treatments were continued for 3 months after successful intervention. Complete neurologic examinations, including assessment with the National Institutes of Health Stroke (NIHSS), and modulate RANK score (MRS) were conducted by 2 independent neurologists. The patients received a family follow-up at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after the interventional procedure. Neurologic sequelae, intracranial hemorrhages, and deaths were recorded as an endpoint. Follow-up clinical and imageological examinations were scheduled at 6 months after the intervention. Follow-up brain computed tomography (CT) perfusion or magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) perfusion scans performed by 2 imageological scanners were scheduled 6 months after the procedure.<br><br>RESULTS: Angioplasty technical success was achieved in 14 parents (100%). We found that 10 patients did not have recurrent MCAS in the angioplasty site and had significant improvements in the associated brain perfusion situation and cognitive founction as compared before and after angioplasty. Also, 4 patients had evident restenosis in the angioplasty site. In the nonstenosis group, we found significant improvements in the MMSE, 3-dimensional (3D) mental rotation, simple calculation, and spatial working memory. In the recurrent stenosis group, we found no statistically significant changes in cognitive function compared with the baseline and after a 6-month follow up. There were high correlations between the changes in perfusion and the changes in word and picture memory. There was a significant correlation between the change in perfusion with MMSE (-0.522), spatial working memory (0.655), and Raven's progressive matrices test (0.637); a moderate correlation with 3D rotation (0.413), and simple calculation (-0.359); and weak correlation with visual tracking (0.026) and MoCA (0.279).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Angioplasty surgery significantly improves neurocognitive function in patients with middle cerebral artery stenosis (MCAS) and objective cerebral ischemia.}, }
@article {pmid33347694, year = {2020}, author = {Sutton, AO and Strickland, D and Freeman, NE and Norris, DR}, title = {Climate-driven carry-over effects negatively influence population growth rate in a food-caching boreal passerine.}, journal = {Global change biology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1111/gcb.15445}, pmid = {33347694}, issn = {1365-2486}, support = {//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; //Society of Canadian Ornithologists/ ; //University of Guelph/ ; //Government of Ontario/ ; //Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry/ ; //Wildlife Conservation Society/ ; //Bird Studies Canada/ ; //Ontario Parks/ ; //W. Garfield Weston Foundation/ ; }, abstract = {Understanding how events throughout the annual cycle are linked is important for predicting variation in individual fitness, but whether and how carry-over effects scale up to influence population dynamics is poorly understood. Using 38 years of demographic data from Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, and a full annual cycle integrated population model, we examined the influence of environmental conditions and density on the population growth rate of Canada jays (Perisoreus canadensis), a resident boreal passerine that relies on perishable cached food for over-winter survival and late-winter breeding. Our results demonstrate that fall environmental variables, most notably the number of freeze-thaw events, carried over to influence late-winter fecundity, which, in turn, was the main vital rate driving population growth. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that warmer and more variable fall conditions accelerate the degradation of perishable stored food that is relied upon for successful reproduction. Future warming during the fall and winter may compromise the viability of cached food that requires consistent subzero temperatures for effective preservation, potentially exacerbating climate-driven carry-over effects that impact long-term population dynamics.}, }
@article {pmid33341038, year = {2021}, author = {Zhao, L and Higuchi, T and Kanamori, M and Natsuike, M and Misaka, N and Murakami-Sugihara, N and Tanaka, K and Shirai, K}, title = {Identification of timing of scallop morphological deformity and mortality from shell oxygen isotope records.}, journal = {Marine environmental research}, volume = {163}, number = {}, pages = {105149}, doi = {10.1016/j.marenvres.2020.105149}, pmid = {33341038}, issn = {1879-0291}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bivalvia ; Humans ; Japan ; Oxygen Isotopes ; *Pectinidae ; Seawater ; }, abstract = {The Yesso scallop, Patinopecten yessoensis (Jay), is one of the most important bivalve species in the Japanese and Chinese mariculture industry. In recent years, however, high incidences of scallop shell deformity and mortality have occurred with increasing frequency, but timing of onset and underlying causes are often unclear. Here, we proposed a promising δ[18]Oshell-based method for constraining the onset of shell deformity and mortality of P. yessoensis. Following six months of intermediate suspension culture in Funka Bay, Northern Japan, shells from healthy, deformed and dead scallops were randomly sampled. High-resolution seawater temperature time-series computed from healthy scallop shell δ[18]O profiles were precisely and temporally aligned to the instrumental temperature curve, thus allowing δ[18]Oshell-derived temperature time-series from deformed and dead scallops to be contextualized and allowing timing of scallop deformity and death to be retrieved. Irrespective of scallop shell length, onsets of deformity were anchored in February, and since then deformed scallops grew slowly in comparison to healthy individuals. Without exception, however, dead scallops had already ceased their shell building and died before February, indicating different underlying causes of scallop deformity and mortality. Perhaps most promisingly, considering that shells do not have any isotopic turn-over and once formed, temperature information is locked in. Thus, this approach holds great promise for identifying time anchor points (onsets of deformity and death) in archived scallops collected over different time scales, especially during massive mortality events.}, }
@article {pmid33325260, year = {2022}, author = {Maraver, MJ and Gómez-Ariza, CJ and Borella, E and Bajo, MT}, title = {Baseline capacities and motivation in executive control training of healthy older adults.}, journal = {Aging &amp; mental health}, volume = {26}, number = {3}, pages = {595-603}, doi = {10.1080/13607863.2020.1858755}, pmid = {33325260}, issn = {1364-6915}, mesh = {Aged ; Aging/psychology ; Cognition ; *Executive Function/physiology ; Humans ; Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; *Motivation ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Normal aging involves progressive prefrontal declines and impairments in executive control. This study aimed to examine the efficacy of an executive-control training focusing on working memory and inhibition, in healthy older adults, and to explore the role of individual differences in baseline capacities and motivation in explaining training gains.<br><br>METHODS: Forty-four healthy older adults were randomly assigned to an experimental (training executive control) or active control group (training processing speed). Participants completed six online training sessions distributed across two weeks. Transfer effects to working memory (Operation Span test), response inhibition (Stop-Signal test), processing speed (Pattern Comparison) and reasoning (Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices and Cattell Culture Fair test) were evaluated. Furthermore, we explored individual differences in baseline capacities and assessed motivation during and after the intervention.<br><br>RESULTS: The experimental group, but not the active control, showed significant transfer to response inhibition. Moreover, a general compensation effect was found: older adults with lower baseline capacities achieved higher levels of training improvement. Motivation was not related to training performance.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our results encourage the use of executive control training to improve cognitive functions, reveal the importance of individual differences in training-related gains, and provide further support for cognitive plasticity during healthy aging.}, }
@article {pmid33321971, year = {2020}, author = {Kaplan, G}, title = {Of Great Apes and Magpies: Initiations into Animal Behaviour.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {10}, number = {12}, pages = {}, pmid = {33321971}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {This paper presents three case studies of exceptional human encounters with animals. These particular examples were selected because they enabled analysis of the underlying reasons that led the human participants to respond in new ways to their animal counterparts. The question asked here is whether sudden insights into the needs and abilities of an animal arises purely from an anthropocentric position as empathy because of genetic closeness (e.g., chimpanzees) or is something else and whether new insights can be applied to other phylogenetic orders not close to us, e.g., birds, and change research questions and implicit prejudices and stereotypes. Particularly in avian species, phylogenetically distant from humans, the prejudices (anthroprocentric position) and the belief in human uniqueness (human exceptionalism) might be greater than in the reactions to primates. Interestingly, in studies of great apes, contradictory opinions and controversies about cognitive abilities, especially when compared with humans, tend to be pronounced. Species appropriateness in test designs are desirable present and future goals but here it is suggested how different experiences can also lead to different questions that explode the myth of human uniqueness and then arrive at entirely different and new results in cognitive and affective abilities of the species under investigation.}, }
@article {pmid33317391, year = {2021}, author = {Takeuchi, H and Taki, Y and Nouchi, R and Yokoyama, R and Kotozaki, Y and Nakagawa, S and Sekiguchi, A and Iizuka, K and Hanawa, S and Araki, T and Miyauchi, CM and Sakaki, K and Sassa, Y and Nozawa, T and Ikeda, S and Yokota, S and Magistro, D and Kawashima, R}, title = {General Intelligence Is Associated with Working Memory-Related Functional Connectivity Change: Evidence from a Large-Sample Study.}, journal = {Brain connectivity}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, pages = {89-102}, doi = {10.1089/brain.2020.0769}, pmid = {33317391}, issn = {2158-0022}, mesh = {Brain/diagnostic imaging ; *Brain Mapping ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Background/Purpose: Psychometric intelligence is closely related to working memory (WM) and the associated brain activity. We aimed to clarify the associations between psychometric intelligence and WM-induced functional connectivity changes. Materials and Methods: Here we determined the associations between psychometric intelligence measured by nonverbal reasoning (using the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices) and WM-induced changes in functional connectivity during the N-back paradigm, in a large cohort of 1221 young adults. Results: We observed that the measures of general intelligence showed a significant positive correlation with WM-induced changes in the functional connectivity with the key nodes of the frontoparietal network, such as the bilateral premotor cortices and the presupplementary motor area. Those significant correlations were observed for (1) areas showing a WM-induced increase of the functional connectivity with the abovementioned key nodes, such as the lateral parietal cortex; (2) areas showing a WM-induced decrease of the functional connectivity with the abovementioned key nodes (2-a) such as left perisylvian areas and cuneus, the fusiform gyrus, and the lingual gyrus, which play key roles in language processing, (2-b) hippocampus and parahippocampal gyrus, which play key roles in memory processing, and (2-c) the key node of the default mode network such as the medial prefrontal cortex; as well as (3) the border areas between (1) and (2). Conclusion: Psychometric intelligence is associated with WM-induced changes in functional connectivity, influencing the way in which WM key nodes dynamically modulate the interaction with other brain nodes in response to WM.}, }
@article {pmid33316356, year = {2021}, author = {Aastrup, C and Hegemann, A}, title = {Jackdaw nestlings rapidly increase innate immune function during the nestling phase but no evidence for a trade-off with growth.}, journal = {Developmental and comparative immunology}, volume = {117}, number = {}, pages = {103967}, doi = {10.1016/j.dci.2020.103967}, pmid = {33316356}, issn = {1879-0089}, mesh = {Adaptive Immunity/*immunology ; Age Factors ; Animals ; Body Size/*immunology ; Crows/growth &amp; development/*immunology ; Female ; Immune System/growth &amp; development/*immunology ; Immunity, Innate/*immunology ; Male ; }, abstract = {Although animals are born with a protective immune system, even the innate immune system is under development from birth to adulthood and this development may be affected by sex and growth. However, most knowledge comes from captive animals or long-lived slow growing species. Moreover, little is known about how innate immune function, the important first line of defence, develops during early life in fast-growing animals such as free-living passerines. We studied development of innate baseline immune function in nestlings of free-living jackdaws Corvus monedula. We measured four immune parameters (hemolysis, hemagglutination, bacterial-killing capacity, haptoglobin concentration) and structural body size (body mass, wing length, tarsus length) at day 12 and day 29 post-hatching. We found that three out of four immune parameters (hemolysis, hemagglutination, bacterial-killing capacity) substantially increased with nestling age and had roughly reached adult levels shortly prior to fledging. We found little differences in immune development between males and females despite them differing in structural development. We also found no evidence that the nestlings traded off immune development with growth. That nestlings rapidly increase innate baseline immune function during early life and similarly in males and females indicates the importance of a well-functioning immune system already during the nestling phase.}, }
@article {pmid33311334, year = {2020}, author = {Mori, A and Bertani, R}, title = {Revision and cladistic analysis of Psalistops Simon, 1889, Trichopelma Simon, 1888 and Cyrtogrammomma Pocock, 1895 (Araneae: Theraphosidae) based on a cladistic analysis of relationships of Theraphosidae, Barychelidae and Paratropididae.}, journal = {Zootaxa}, volume = {4873}, number = {1}, pages = {zootaxa.4873.1.1}, doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.4873.1.1}, pmid = {33311334}, issn = {1175-5334}, mesh = {Animal Distribution ; Animals ; Fossils ; *Spiders ; }, abstract = {The genera Psalistops Simon, 1889, Trichopelma, Simon, 1888 and Cyrtogrammomma Pocock, 1895 are revised and included in cladistics analyses including almost all species of these genera. In order to test previous morphological hypotheses on the relationships of Barychelidae, Paratropididae and Theraphosidae and because of the controversial taxonomic position of Psalistops and Trichopelma, a set of terminal taxa representing all subfamilies of Paratropididae (Paratropidinae, Glabropelmatinae), Barychelidae (Barychelinae, Sasoninae, Trichopelmatinae) and most theraphosid subfamilies were included, as well as a diplurid, a nemesiid, and a pycnothelid, the later used to root the cladogram. The matrix with 66 terminal taxa, 2 continuous and 93 discrete characters was analysed with TNT 1.5. We found that Trichopelmatinae is not a monophyletic group, and Psalistops is transferred to Theraphosidae, as well as the barychelid genus Cyrtogrammomma and the paratropidid genus Melloina Brignoli. Cyrtogrammomma was retrieved as the sister group of Trichopelma, and Melloina as the sister group of Holothele Karsch. Psalistops was retrieved as the sister group of Reichlingia Rudloff, and the clade with these two genera is the most basal in Theraphosidae. Barychelidae was found to be monophyletic and the sister group of Theraphosidae. Paratropididae was retrieved as the sister group of Barychelidae + Theraphosidae. The relationship and possible synapomorphies of the three families are herein discussed. This is the first time since Raven (1985) that representatives of all barychelid (Barychelinae, Sasoninae, Trichopelmatinae), paratropidid (Paratropidinae, Glabropelmatinae) and most theraphosid subfamilies have been included in a morphological cladistic analysis. Psalistops comprises two species, P. melanopygius Simon, 1889 (type species) and P. colombianus sp. nov. Psalistops montigena Simon, 1889, P. tigrinus Simon, 1889 and P. zonatus Simon, 1889 are synonymized with P. melanopygius Simon, 1889. Psalistops fulvus Bryant, 1948, P. hispaniolensis Wunderlich, 1988 (fossil), P. maculosus Bryant, 1948, P. venadensis Valerio, 1986 and P. steini (Simon, 1889) are transferred to Trichopelma. Psalistops gasci Maréchal, 1996 is transferred to Hapalopus Ausserer (Theraphosidae); P. opifex (Simon, 1889) and P. solitarius (Simon, 1889) are transferred to Schismatothele Karsch, 1879 (Theraphosidae). Schismatothele solitarius (Simon, 1889) n. comb. is synonymized with Schismatothele lineata Karsch, 1879, n. syn. Psalistops nigrifemuratus Mello-Leitão, 1939 is probably a nemesiid or pycnothelid, and herein considered as nomen dubium in Pycnothelidae. Trichopelma comprises 22 species: Trichopelma nitidum Simon, 1888 (type species), T. coenobita (Simon, 1889), T. steini (Simon, 1889), T. affine (Simon, 1892), T. cubanum (Simon, 1903), T. maculatum (Banks, 1906), T. zebra (Petrunkevitch, 1925), T. banksia Özdikmen Demir, 2012, T. insulanum (Petrunkevitch, 1926), T. fulvus (Bryant, 1948) n. comb., T. laselva Valerio, 1986, T. venadensis (Valerio, 1986) n. comb., T. huffi sp. nov., T. gabrieli sp. nov., T. tostoi sp. nov., T. goloboffi sp. nov., T. juventud sp. nov., T. laurae sp. nov., T.bimini sp. nov., T. loui sp. nov., T. platnicki sp. nov., and T. hispaniolensis Wunderlich, 1988 n. comb. (fossil). Trichopelma maculosus (Bryant, 1948) n. comb. is synonymized with P. fulvus Bryant, 1948; T. corozalis (Petrunkevitch, 1929) is synonymized with T. insulanum (Petrunkevitch, 1926). Trichopelma astutum Simon, 1889 is transferred to Euthycaelus Simon, 1889, and T. maddeni Esposito Agnarsson, 2014 to Holothele Karsch, 1879 (Theraphosidae). Trichopelma flavicomum Simon, 1891 is transferred to Neodiplothele (Barychelidae, Sasoninae). The species T. illetabile Simon, 1888, T. spinosum (Franganillo, 1926), T. scopulatum (Fischel, 1927) and T. eucubanum Özdikmen Demir, 2012 are considered as nomina dubia. Cyrtogrammomma comprises two species: C. monticola Pocock, 1895 (type species) and C. raveni sp. nov.}, }
@article {pmid33305388, year = {2021}, author = {Dussex, N and Kutschera, VE and Wiberg, RAW and Parker, DJ and Hunt, GR and Gray, RD and Rutherford, K and Abe, H and Fleischer, RC and Ritchie, MG and Rutz, C and Wolf, JBW and Gemmell, NJ}, title = {A genome-wide investigation of adaptive signatures in protein-coding genes related to tool behaviour in New Caledonian and Hawaiian crows.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {30}, number = {4}, pages = {973-986}, doi = {10.1111/mec.15775}, pmid = {33305388}, issn = {1365-294X}, support = {BB/G023913/2/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows/genetics ; Hawaii ; *Life History Traits ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Very few animals habitually manufacture and use tools. It has been suggested that advanced tool behaviour co-evolves with a suite of behavioural, morphological and life history traits. In fact, there are indications for such an adaptive complex in tool-using crows (genus Corvus species). Here, we sequenced the genomes of two habitually tool-using and ten non-tool-using crow species to search for genomic signatures associated with a tool-using lifestyle. Using comparative genomic and population genetic approaches, we screened for signals of selection in protein-coding genes in the tool-using New Caledonian and Hawaiian crows. While we detected signals of recent selection in New Caledonian crows near genes associated with bill morphology, our data indicate that genetic changes in these two lineages are surprisingly subtle, with little evidence at present for convergence. We explore the biological explanations for these findings, such as the relative roles of gene regulation and protein-coding changes, as well as the possibility that statistical power to detect selection in recently diverged lineages may have been insufficient. Our study contributes to a growing body of literature aiming to decipher the genetic basis of recently evolved complex behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid33304499, year = {2020}, author = {Gomo, G and Rød-Eriksen, L and Andreassen, HP and Mattisson, J and Odden, M and Devineau, O and Eide, NE}, title = {Scavenger community structure along an environmental gradient from boreal forest to alpine tundra in Scandinavia.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {10}, number = {23}, pages = {12860-12869}, pmid = {33304499}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Scavengers can have strong impacts on food webs, and awareness of their role in ecosystems has increased during the last decades. In our study, we used baited camera traps to quantify the structure of the winter scavenger community in central Scandinavia across a forest-alpine continuum and assess how climatic conditions affected spatial patterns of species occurrences at baits. Canonical correspondence analysis revealed that the main habitat type (forest or alpine tundra) and snow depth was main determinants of the community structure. According to a joint species distribution model within the HMSC framework, species richness tended to be higher in forest than in alpine tundra habitat, but was only weakly associated with temperature and snow depth. However, we observed stronger and more diverse impacts of these covariates on individual species. Occurrence at baits by habitat generalists (red fox, golden eagle, and common raven) typically increased at low temperatures and high snow depth, probably due to increased energetic demands and lower abundance of natural prey in harsh winter conditions. On the contrary, occurrence at baits by forest specialists (e.g., Eurasian jay) tended to decrease in deep snow, which is possibly a consequence of reduced bait detectability and accessibility. In general, the influence of environmental covariates on species richness and occurrence at baits was lower in alpine tundra than in forests, and habitat generalists dominated the scavenger communities in both forest and alpine tundra. Following forecasted climate change, altered environmental conditions are likely to cause range expansion of boreal species and range contraction of typical alpine species such as the arctic fox. Our results suggest that altered snow conditions will possibly be a main driver of changes in species community structure.}, }
@article {pmid33303790, year = {2020}, author = {Pika, S and Sima, MJ and Blum, CR and Herrmann, E and Mundry, R}, title = {Ravens parallel great apes in physical and social cognitive skills.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {20617}, pmid = {33303790}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Pan troglodytes/*physiology ; Pongo/*physiology ; *Psychomotor Performance ; *Social Skills ; }, abstract = {Human children show unique cognitive skills for dealing with the social world but their cognitive performance is paralleled by great apes in many tasks dealing with the physical world. Recent studies suggested that members of a songbird family-corvids-also evolved complex cognitive skills but a detailed understanding of the full scope of their cognition was, until now, not existent. Furthermore, relatively little is known about their cognitive development. Here, we conducted the first systematic, quantitative large-scale assessment of physical and social cognitive performance of common ravens with a special focus on development. To do so, we fine-tuned one of the most comprehensive experimental test-batteries, the Primate Cognition Test Battery (PCTB), to raven features enabling also a direct, quantitative comparison with the cognitive performance of two great ape species. Full-blown cognitive skills were already present at the age of four months with subadult ravens' cognitive performance appearing very similar to that of adult apes in tasks of physical (quantities, and causality) and social cognition (social learning, communication, and theory of mind). These unprecedented findings strengthen recent assessments of ravens' general intelligence, and aid to the growing evidence that the lack of a specific cortical architecture does not hinder advanced cognitive skills. Difficulties in certain cognitive scales further emphasize the quest to develop comparative test batteries that tap into true species rather than human specific cognitive skills, and suggest that socialization of test individuals may play a crucial role. We conclude to pay more attention to the impact of personality on cognitive output, and a currently neglected topic in Animal Cognition-the linkage between ontogeny and cognitive performance.}, }
@article {pmid33302453, year = {2020}, author = {Bohacz, J and Możejko, M and Kitowski, I}, title = {Arthroderma tuberculatum and Arthroderma multifidum Isolated from Soils in Rook (Corvus frugilegus) Colonies as Producers of Keratinolytic Enzymes and Mineral Forms of N and S.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {17}, number = {24}, pages = {}, pmid = {33302453}, issn = {1660-4601}, mesh = {Animals ; Arthrodermataceae/*enzymology/isolation &amp; purification ; *Crows ; Feathers ; Minerals ; Nitrogen/*metabolism ; Peptide Hydrolases/*metabolism ; *Soil Microbiology ; Sulfur/*metabolism ; Waste Management ; }, abstract = {Keratinolytic fungi representing the genus Arthroderma that were isolated from the soils of a rook (Corvus frugilegus) colony were used as biological agents for the disposal of waste feathers. The aim of this study was to assess the abilities of Arthroderma tuberculatum and Arthroderma multifidum fungi with a varied inflow of keratin matter to biodegrade waste feathers. The evaluation was based on the determination of feather mass loss, the activity of keratinolytic enzymes, and the content of mineral N and S forms. It was found that the activity of protease released by the fungi contributed to an increase in the level of soluble proteins and peptides and the concentration of ammonium ions, as well as alkalization of the culture medium. Keratinase activity was significantly correlated with sulfate release, especially in A. tuberculatum cultures. The strains of A. tuberculatum fungi isolated from the soil with the highest supply of organic matter, i.e., strains III, IV, and V, had the lowest enzymatic activity, compared to the A. multifidum strains, but they released mineral nitrogen and sulfur forms that are highly important for fertilization, as well as nutritionally important peptides and amino acids. A. tuberculatum strains can be used for the management of waste feathers that can be applied in agricultural practice.}, }
@article {pmid33299193, year = {2020}, author = {Bauer, N and Bertram, C and Schultes, A and Klein, D and Luderer, G and Kriegler, E and Popp, A and Edenhofer, O}, title = {Quantification of an efficiency-sovereignty trade-off in climate policy.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {588}, number = {7837}, pages = {261-266}, pmid = {33299193}, issn = {1476-4687}, mesh = {Commerce/*economics/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Environmental Policy/*economics/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Global Warming/economics/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence/*prevention &amp; control ; International Cooperation/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Paris ; Social Justice ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {The Paris Agreement calls for a cooperative response with the aim of limiting global warming to well below two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels while reaffirming the principles of equity and common, but differentiated responsibilities and capabilities[1]. Although the goal is clear, the approach required to achieve it is not. Cap-and-trade policies using uniform carbon prices could produce cost-effective reductions of global carbon emissions, but tend to impose relatively high mitigation costs on developing and emerging economies. Huge international financial transfers are required to complement cap-and-trade to achieve equal sharing of effort, defined as an equal distribution of mitigation costs as a share of income[2,3], and therefore the cap-and-trade policy is often perceived as infringing on national sovereignty[2-7]. Here we show that a strategy of international financial transfers guided by moderate deviations from uniform carbon pricing could achieve the goal without straining either the economies or sovereignty of nations. We use the integrated assessment model REMIND-MAgPIE to analyse alternative policies: financial transfers in uniform carbon pricing systems, differentiated carbon pricing in the absence of financial transfers, or a hybrid combining financial transfers and differentiated carbon prices. Under uniform carbon prices, a present value of international financial transfers of 4.4 trillion US dollars over the next 80 years to 2100 would be required to equalize effort. By contrast, achieving equal effort without financial transfers requires carbon prices in advanced countries to exceed those in developing countries by a factor of more than 100, leading to efficiency losses of 2.6 trillion US dollars. Hybrid solutions reveal a strongly nonlinear trade-off between cost efficiency and sovereignty: moderate deviations from uniform carbon prices strongly reduce financial transfers at relatively small efficiency losses and moderate financial transfers substantially reduce inefficiencies by narrowing the carbon price spread. We also identify risks and adverse consequences of carbon price differentiation due to market distortions that can undermine environmental sustainability targets[8,9]. Quantifying the advantages and risks of carbon price differentiation provides insight into climate and sector-specific policy mixes.}, }
@article {pmid33296864, year = {2021}, author = {Valaparla, VL and Nehra, R and Mehta, UM and Grover, S}, title = {Social cognitive deficits in schizophrenia and their neurocognitive correlates across the different phases of illness.}, journal = {Asian journal of psychiatry}, volume = {55}, number = {}, pages = {102501}, doi = {10.1016/j.ajp.2020.102501}, pmid = {33296864}, issn = {1876-2026}, mesh = {Cognition ; *Cognition Disorders ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/etiology ; Humans ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Schizophrenia/complications ; }, abstract = {AIM: This study aimed to assess the relationship between neurocognition (NC) and social cognition (SC) in patients with schizophrenia during the symptomatic phase and the phase of clinical remission.<br><br>METHODOLOGY: Thirty-two patients were assessed on Color trail test (CTT), Hopkins verbal learning test (HVLT), Controlled oral word association (COWA) test, Wisconsin card sorting test (WCST), Ravens standard progressive matrices (SPM) and Social cognition rating tool in Indian setting (SOCRATIS) during symptomatic and remission phases of illness at least 3 months apart.<br><br>RESULTS: Compared to baseline assessment, even after controlling for PANSS scores except for social perception index all other domains of SC showed significant improvement at the time of remission. Although there was significant improvement in a few subtests of verbal learning, IQ and number of correct responses of COWA, colour trail test, no significant difference was seen in performance on WCST. Although second order theory of mind task had some association with IQ at the baseline assessment, no association was seen between SC and NC in the remission phase.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: To conclude, present study suggests that impairments in all the domains of SC (except for social perception index) and NC (except for WCST) improve in the remission phase.}, }
@article {pmid33287499, year = {2020}, author = {Duan, Z}, title = {[The exploration of Hujia Pasture wooden slip medicine prescription].}, journal = {Zhonghua yi shi za zhi (Beijing, China : 1980)}, volume = {50}, number = {5}, pages = {307-310}, doi = {10.3760/cma.j.cn112155-20200804-00125}, pmid = {33287499}, issn = {0255-7053}, support = {GZK-2015-18//Scientific Research Project Approved by Gansu Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2015/ ; }, mesh = {Child ; China ; Epilepsy/drug therapy ; History, Ancient ; Humans ; Medicine, Chinese Traditional/*history ; *Moxibustion ; Prescriptions/*history ; }, abstract = {Some features in the medical prescriptions of western Han dynasty on the wooden slips unearthed in Hujia Pasture were interpreted, and the words were annotated and translated. The study found that this recipe with male magpie excrement treatment epileptic disease is the first moxibustion combined with drugs to treat epilepsy. This is the earliest recorded treatment. The drug is still administered to lactate children by applying it to the mother's nipple and making the child to suck, and it is the earliest recorded of its kind.}, }
@article {pmid33286157, year = {2020}, author = {Lu, C}, title = {Channels' Confirmation and Predictions' Confirmation: From the Medical Test to the Raven Paradox.}, journal = {Entropy (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {22}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {33286157}, issn = {1099-4300}, abstract = {After long arguments between positivism and falsificationism, the verification of universal hypotheses was replaced with the confirmation of uncertain major premises. Unfortunately, Hemple proposed the Raven Paradox. Then, Carnap used the increment of logical probability as the confirmation measure. So far, many confirmation measures have been proposed. Measure F proposed by Kemeny and Oppenheim among them possesses symmetries and asymmetries proposed by Elles and Fitelson, monotonicity proposed by Greco et al., and normalizing property suggested by many researchers. Based on the semantic information theory, a measure b* similar to F is derived from the medical test. Like the likelihood ratio, measures b* and F can only indicate the quality of channels or the testing means instead of the quality of probability predictions. Furthermore, it is still not easy to use b*, F, or another measure to clarify the Raven Paradox. For this reason, measure c* similar to the correct rate is derived. Measure c* supports the Nicod Criterion and undermines the Equivalence Condition, and hence, can be used to eliminate the Raven Paradox. An example indicates that measures F and b* are helpful for diagnosing the infection of Novel Coronavirus, whereas most popular confirmation measures are not. Another example reveals that all popular confirmation measures cannot be used to explain that a black raven can confirm "Ravens are black" more strongly than a piece of chalk. Measures F, b*, and c* indicate that the existence of fewer counterexamples is more important than more positive examples' existence, and hence, are compatible with Popper's falsification thought.}, }
@article {pmid33279924, year = {2020}, author = {Perpetuini, D and Chiarelli, AM and Filippini, C and Cardone, D and Croce, P and Rotunno, L and Anzoletti, N and Zito, M and Zappasodi, F and Merla, A}, title = {Working Memory Decline in Alzheimer's Disease Is Detected by Complexity Analysis of Multimodal EEG-fNIRS.}, journal = {Entropy (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {22}, number = {12}, pages = {}, pmid = {33279924}, issn = {1099-4300}, support = {692470//H2020, ECSEL-04-2015-Smart Health, Advancing Smart Optical Imaging and Sensing for Health (ASTONISH)/ ; }, abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by working memory (WM) failures that can be assessed at early stages through administering clinical tests. Ecological neuroimaging, such as Electroencephalography (EEG) and functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS), may be employed during these tests to support AD early diagnosis within clinical settings. Multimodal EEG-fNIRS could measure brain activity along with neurovascular coupling (NC) and detect their modifications associated with AD. Data analysis procedures based on signal complexity are suitable to estimate electrical and hemodynamic brain activity or their mutual information (NC) during non-structured experimental paradigms. In this study, sample entropy of whole-head EEG and frontal/prefrontal cortex fNIRS was evaluated to assess brain activity in early AD and healthy controls (HC) during WM tasks (i.e., Rey-Osterrieth complex figure and Raven's progressive matrices). Moreover, conditional entropy between EEG and fNIRS was evaluated as indicative of NC. The findings demonstrated the capability of complexity analysis of multimodal EEG-fNIRS to detect WM decline in AD. Furthermore, a multivariate data-driven analysis, performed on these entropy metrics and based on the General Linear Model, allowed classifying AD and HC with an AUC up to 0.88. EEG-fNIRS may represent a powerful tool for the clinical evaluation of WM decline in early AD.}, }
@article {pmid33271875, year = {2020}, author = {Chen, Z and Erickson, DL and Meng, J}, title = {Benchmarking Long-Read Assemblers for Genomic Analyses of Bacterial Pathogens Using Oxford Nanopore Sequencing.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {21}, number = {23}, pages = {}, pmid = {33271875}, issn = {1422-0067}, support = {U01FD001418//U.S. Food and Drug Administration/ ; }, mesh = {Bacteria/classification/drug effects/*genetics/pathogenicity ; Computational Biology/methods ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; *Genome, Bacterial ; Genomics/*methods ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/*methods ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; Phylogeny ; Reproducibility of Results ; Virulence/genetics ; Virulence Factors/genetics ; }, abstract = {Oxford Nanopore sequencing can be used to achieve complete bacterial genomes. However, the error rates of Oxford Nanopore long reads are greater compared to Illumina short reads. Long-read assemblers using a variety of assembly algorithms have been developed to overcome this deficiency, which have not been benchmarked for genomic analyses of bacterial pathogens using Oxford Nanopore long reads. In this study, long-read assemblers, namely Canu, Flye, Miniasm/Racon, Raven, Redbean, and Shasta, were thus benchmarked using Oxford Nanopore long reads of bacterial pathogens. Ten species were tested for mediocre- and low-quality simulated reads, and 10 species were tested for real reads. Raven was the most robust assembler, obtaining complete and accurate genomes. All Miniasm/Racon and Raven assemblies of mediocre-quality reads provided accurate antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles, while the Raven assembly of Klebsiella variicola with low-quality reads was the only assembly with an accurate AMR profile among all assemblers and species. All assemblers functioned well for predicting virulence genes using mediocre-quality and real reads, whereas only the Raven assemblies of low-quality reads had accurate numbers of virulence genes. Regarding multilocus sequence typing (MLST), Miniasm/Racon was the most effective assembler for mediocre-quality reads, while only the Raven assemblies of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and K. variicola with low-quality reads showed positive MLST results. Miniasm/Racon and Raven were the best performers for MLST using real reads. The Miniasm/Racon and Raven assemblies showed accurate phylogenetic inference. For the pan-genome analyses, Raven was the strongest assembler for simulated reads, whereas Miniasm/Racon and Raven performed the best for real reads. Overall, the most robust and accurate assembler was Raven, closely followed by Miniasm/Racon.}, }
@article {pmid33269437, year = {2021}, author = {Vernouillet, A and Casidsid, HJM and Kelly, DM}, title = {Conspecific presence, but not pilferage, influences pinyon jays' (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) caching behavior.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {49}, number = {1}, pages = {23-35}, pmid = {33269437}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior ; Food ; *Passeriformes ; Social Behavior ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {Caching species store food when plentiful to ensure availability when resources are scarce. These stores may be at risk of pilferage by others present at the time of caching. Cachers may reduce the risk of loss by using information from the social environment to engage in behaviors to secure the resource-cache protection strategies. Here, we examined whether pinyon jays, a highly social corvid, use information from the social environment to modify their caching behavior. Pinyon jays were provided with pine seeds to cache in two visually distinct trays. The cacher could be observed by a non-pilfering conspecific, a pilfering conspecific, or an inanimate heterospecific located in an adjoining cage compartment, or the cacher could be alone. After caching, the pilfered tray was placed in the adjoining compartment where caches were either pilfered (pilfering conspecific and inanimate heterospecific conditions) or remained intact (non-pilfering conspecific and alone conditions). The safe tray was placed in a visible, but inaccessible, location. Overall, pinyon jays reduced the number of pine seeds cached in the pilfered tray when observed, compared with caching alone. However, their caching behavior did not differ between the pilfering conspecific and the non-pilfering conspecific conditions. These results suggest that either pinyon jays were unable to discriminate between the pilfering and non-pilfering conspecifics, or they generalized their experience of risk from the pilfering conspecific to the non-pilfering conspecific. Thus, we report evidence that pinyon jays use cache protection strategies to secure their resources when observed, but respond similarly when observed by pilfering and non-pilfering conspecifics.}, }
@article {pmid33268388, year = {2020}, author = {Reha-Krantz, LJ and Goodman, MF}, title = {John W. (Jan) Drake: A Biochemical View of a Geneticist Par Excellence.}, journal = {Genetics}, volume = {216}, number = {4}, pages = {827-836}, pmid = {33268388}, issn = {1943-2631}, support = {R35 ES028343/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; RM1 GM130450/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Bacteriophage T4/genetics ; DNA Replication ; Genetics/*history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Mutagenesis ; }, abstract = {John W. Drake died 02-02-2020, a mathematical palindrome, which he would have enjoyed, given his love of "word play and logic," as stated in his obituary and echoed by his family, friends, students, and colleagues. Many aspects of Jan's career have been reviewed previously, including his early years as a Caltech graduate student, and when he was editor-in-chief, with the devoted assistance of his wife Pam, of this journal for 15 impactful years. During his editorship, he raised the profile of GENETICS as the flagship journal of the Genetics Society of America and inspired and contributed to the creation of the Perspectives column, coedited by Jim Crow and William Dove. At the same time, Jan was building from scratch the Laboratory of Molecular Genetics on the newly established Research Triangle Park campus of the National Institute of Environmental Health Science, which he headed for 30 years. This commentary offers a unique perspective on Jan's legacy; we showcase Jan's 1969 benchmark discovery of antimutagenic T4 DNA polymerases and the research by three generations (and counting) of scientists whose research stems from that groundbreaking discovery. This is followed by a brief discussion of Jan's passion: his overriding interest in analyzing mutation rates across species. Several anecdotal stories are included to bring alive one of Jan's favorite phrases, "to think like a geneticist." We feature Jan's genetical approach to mutation studies, along with the biochemistry of DNA polymerase function, our area of expertise. But in the end, we acknowledge, as Jan did, that genetics, also known as in vivo biochemistry, prevails.}, }
@article {pmid33240589, year = {2020}, author = {Adawaren, EO and Du Plessis, M and Suleman, E and Kindler, D and Oosthuizen, AO and Mukandiwa, L and Naidoo, V}, title = {The complete mitochondrial genome of Gyps coprotheres (Aves, Accipitridae, Accipitriformes): phylogenetic analysis of mitogenome among raptors.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {e10034}, pmid = {33240589}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {Three species of Old World vultures on the Asian peninsula are slowly recovering from the lethal consequences of diclofenac. At present the reason for species sensitivity to diclofenac is unknown. Furthermore, it has since been demonstrated that other Old World vultures like the Cape (Gyps coprotheres; CGV) and griffon (G. fulvus) vultures are also susceptible to diclofenac toxicity. Oddly, the New World Turkey vulture (Cathartes aura) and pied crow (Corvus albus) are not susceptible to diclofenac toxicity. As a result of the latter, we postulate an evolutionary link to toxicity. As a first step in understanding the susceptibility to diclofenac toxicity, we use the CGV as a model species for phylogenetic evaluations, by comparing the relatedness of various raptor species known to be susceptible, non-susceptible and suspected by their relationship to the Cape vulture mitogenome. This was achieved by next generation sequencing and assembly. The Cape vulture mitogenome had a genome size of 16,908 bp. The mitogenome phylogenetic analysis indicated a close evolutionary relationship between Old World vultures and other members of the Accipitridae as indicated by bootstrap value of 100% on the phylogenetic trees. Based on this, we postulate that the other species could also be sensitive to the toxic effects of diclofenac. This warrants further investigations.}, }
@article {pmid33239782, year = {2020}, author = {O'Connor, PM and Turner, AH and Groenke, JR and Felice, RN and Rogers, RR and Krause, DW and Rahantarisoa, LJ}, title = {Late Cretaceous bird from Madagascar reveals unique development of beaks.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {588}, number = {7837}, pages = {272-276}, pmid = {33239782}, issn = {1476-4687}, support = {/ERC_/European Research Council/International ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Beak/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Biological Evolution ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology/classification ; *Fossils ; Madagascar ; Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {Mesozoic birds display considerable diversity in size, flight adaptations and feather organization[1-4], but exhibit relatively conserved patterns of beak shape and development[5-7]. Although Neornithine (that is, crown group) birds also exhibit constraint on facial development[8,9], they have comparatively diverse beak morphologies associated with a range of feeding and behavioural ecologies, in contrast to Mesozoic birds. Here we describe a crow-sized stem bird, Falcatakely forsterae gen. et sp. nov., from the Late Cretaceous epoch of Madagascar that possesses a long and deep rostrum, an expression of beak morphology that was previously unknown among Mesozoic birds and is superficially similar to that of a variety of crown-group birds (for example, toucans). The rostrum of Falcatakely is composed of an expansive edentulous maxilla and a small tooth-bearing premaxilla. Morphometric analyses of individual bony elements and three-dimensional rostrum shape reveal the development of a neornithine-like facial anatomy despite the retention of a maxilla-premaxilla organization that is similar to that of nonavialan theropods. The patterning and increased height of the rostrum in Falcatakely reveals a degree of developmental lability and increased morphological disparity that was previously unknown in early branching avialans. Expression of this phenotype (and presumed ecology) in a stem bird underscores that consolidation to the neornithine-like, premaxilla-dominated rostrum was not an evolutionary prerequisite for beak enlargement.}, }
@article {pmid33233498, year = {2020}, author = {Smirni, D}, title = {The Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices in Healthy Children: A Qualitative Approach.}, journal = {Brain sciences}, volume = {10}, number = {11}, pages = {}, pmid = {33233498}, issn = {2076-3425}, abstract = {Studies on the structure of intelligence refer to two main theoretical models: the first one considers intelligence as a unitary construct, the second one assumes the involvement of a plurality of factors. Studies using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) tasks have often highlighted the involvement of different cognitive abilities and brain structures, but in the clinical setting, RCPM measurement continues to be used as a single score. The current study aimed to analyse the RCPM performance following qualitative clustering, in order to provide an interpretation of the intelligence assessment through a factorial criterion. The RCPM have been administered to a large group of typically developing children between 6 and 11 years of age. The sample was divided into twelve age groups, and the performance of each age group was shown. Three qualitative item clusters were identified through a factorial criterion. Data showed that performance on RCPM may arise from different cognitive abilities, starting from basic attentional skills up to the more complex ones that require perceptual or analogical reasoning. The qualitative parameters could provide more effective diagnostic and treatment suggestions than a single total score in the clinical setting, and may be crucial for focusing on strength and weakness in the intellectual functionality evaluation of children.}, }
@article {pmid33229557, year = {2020}, author = {Kunda, M}, title = {AI, visual imagery, and a case study on the challenges posed by human intelligence tests.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {117}, number = {47}, pages = {29390-29397}, pmid = {33229557}, issn = {1091-6490}, support = {P50 HD103537/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Imagination/*physiology ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Machine Learning ; Models, Psychological ; Neural Networks, Computer ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Spatial Processing/physiology ; Visual Perception/physiology ; }, abstract = {Observations abound about the power of visual imagery in human intelligence, from how Nobel prize-winning physicists make their discoveries to how children understand bedtime stories. These observations raise an important question for cognitive science, which is, what are the computations taking place in someone's mind when they use visual imagery? Answering this question is not easy and will require much continued research across the multiple disciplines of cognitive science. Here, we focus on a related and more circumscribed question from the perspective of artificial intelligence (AI): If you have an intelligent agent that uses visual imagery-based knowledge representations and reasoning operations, then what kinds of problem solving might be possible, and how would such problem solving work? We highlight recent progress in AI toward answering these questions in the domain of visuospatial reasoning, looking at a case study of how imagery-based artificial agents can solve visuospatial intelligence tests. In particular, we first examine several variations of imagery-based knowledge representations and problem-solving strategies that are sufficient for solving problems from the Raven's Progressive Matrices intelligence test. We then look at how artificial agents, instead of being designed manually by AI researchers, might learn portions of their own knowledge and reasoning procedures from experience, including learning visuospatial domain knowledge, learning and generalizing problem-solving strategies, and learning the actual definition of the task in the first place.}, }
@article {pmid33225245, year = {2020}, author = {Wagener, L and Nieder, A}, title = {Categorical Auditory Working Memory in Crows.}, journal = {iScience}, volume = {23}, number = {11}, pages = {101737}, pmid = {33225245}, issn = {2589-0042}, abstract = {The ability to group sensory data into behaviorally meaningful classes and to maintain these perceptual categories active in working memory is key to intelligent behavior. Here, we show that carrion crows, highly vocal and cognitively advanced corvid songbirds, possess categorical auditory working memory. The crows were trained in a delayed match-to-category task that required them to flexibly match remembered sounds based on the upward or downward shift of the sounds' frequency modulation. After training, the crows instantaneously classified novel sounds into the correct auditory categories. The crows showed sharp category boundaries as a function of the relative frequency interval of the modulation. In addition, the crows generalized frequency-modulated sounds within a category and correctly classified novel sounds kept in working memory irrespective of other acoustic features of the sound. This suggests that crows can form and actively memorize auditory perceptual categories in the service of cognitive control of their goal-directed behaviors.}, }
@article {pmid33207724, year = {2020}, author = {Mughal, R and Hill, CM and Joyce, A and Dimitriou, D}, title = {Sleep and Cognition in Children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) and Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).}, journal = {Brain sciences}, volume = {10}, number = {11}, pages = {}, pmid = {33207724}, issn = {2076-3425}, abstract = {Children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) experience significantly higher rates of sleep disturbances than their typically developing peers. However, little is known about the association between sleep and the cognitive phenotype in these clinical populations. Structural damage affecting cortical and subcortical connectivity occurs as a result of prenatal alcohol exposure in children with FASD, whilst it is believed an abundance of short-range connectivity explains the phenotypic manifestations of childhood ASD. These underlying neural structural and connectivity differences manifest as cognitive patterns, with some shared and some unique characteristics between FASD and ASD. This is the first study to examine sleep and its association with cognition in individuals with FASD, and to compare sleep in individuals with FASD and ASD. We assessed children aged 6-12 years with a diagnosis of FASD (n = 29), ASD (n = 21), and Typically Developing (TD) children (n = 46) using actigraphy (CamNTech Actiwatch 8), digit span tests of working memory (Weschler Intelligence Scale), tests of nonverbal mental age (MA; Ravens Standard Progressive Matrices), receptive vocabulary (British Picture Vocabulary Scale), and a choice reaction time (CRT) task. Children with FASD and ASD presented with significantly shorter total sleep duration, lower sleep efficiency, and more nocturnal wakings than their TD peers. Sleep was significantly associated with scores on the cognitive tests in all three groups. Our findings support the growing body of work asserting that sleep is significant to cognitive functioning in these neurodevelopmental conditions; however, more research is needed to determine cause and effect.}, }
@article {pmid33200879, year = {2021}, author = {Snow, NP and Wishart, JD and Foster, JA and Staples, LD and VerCauteren, KC}, title = {Efficacy and risks from a modified sodium nitrite toxic bait for wild pigs.}, journal = {Pest management science}, volume = {77}, number = {4}, pages = {1616-1625}, doi = {10.1002/ps.6180}, pmid = {33200879}, issn = {1526-4998}, mesh = {Animals ; *Animals, Wild ; Australia ; Queensland ; Sodium Nitrite ; *Sus scrofa ; Swine ; Texas ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Wild pigs (Sus scrofa) are a destructive invasive species throughout many regions of the world. In 2018, a field evaluation of an early prototype of a sodium nitrite (SN) toxic bait in the United States revealed wild pigs dropped large amounts of the toxic bait outside the pig-specific bait stations while feeding, and thus subsequent hazards for non-target animals. We modified the SN-toxic bait formulation, the design of the bait station, and the baiting strategy to reduce dropped bait. We tested the modifications in Queensland, Australia (December 2018), Alabama, USA (August 2019), and Texas, USA (March 2020) under differing climatic and seasonal conditions for one night.<br><br>RESULTS: Cumulatively we found 161 carcasses of all age classes of wild pigs using systematic transects. Remote camera indices indicated high lethality for wild pigs, achieving population reductions of 76.3 to 90.4%. Wild pigs dropped only small particles of SN-toxic bait (average = 55.5&#x2009;g per bait site), which represented a 19-fold decrease from the previous trial. Despite this reduction, we found three Australian ravens (Corvus coronoides) in Queensland, two Virginia opossums (Didelphis virginiana) in Alabama, and 35 granivorous-passerine birds (mostly dark-eyed juncos [Junco hyemalis]) in Texas dead from consuming the dropped bait. We did not detect any population-level effects for those species.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our modifications were effective at reducing populations of wild pigs, but the deaths of non-target species require further steps to minimize these hazards. Next steps will include evaluating various deterrent devices for birds the morning after SN-toxic bait has been offered. Published 2020. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.}, }
@article {pmid33194383, year = {2020}, author = {Nesbitt, SJ and Zawiskie, JM and Dawley, RM}, title = {The osteology and phylogenetic position of the loricatan (Archosauria: Pseudosuchia) Heptasuchus clarki, from the ?Mid-Upper Triassic, southeastern Big Horn Mountains, Central Wyoming (USA).}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {e10101}, pmid = {33194383}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {Loricatan pseudosuchians (known as "rauisuchians") typically consist of poorly understood fragmentary remains known worldwide from the Middle Triassic to the end of the Triassic Period. Renewed interest and the discovery of more complete specimens recently revolutionized our understanding of the relationships of archosaurs, the origin of Crocodylomorpha, and the paleobiology of these animals. However, there are still few loricatans known from the Middle to early portion of the Late Triassic and the forms that occur during this time are largely known from southern Pangea or Europe. Heptasuchus clarki was the first formally recognized North American "rauisuchian" and was collected from a poorly sampled and disparately fossiliferous sequence of Triassic strata in North America. Exposed along the trend of the Casper Arch flanking the southeastern Big Horn Mountains, the type locality of Heptasuchus clarki occurs within a sequence of red beds above the Alcova Limestone and Crow Mountain formations within the Chugwater Group. The age of the type locality is poorly constrained to the Middle-early Late Triassic and is likely similar to or just older than that of the Popo Agie Formation assemblage from the western portion of Wyoming. The holotype consists of associated cranial elements found in situ, and the referred specimens consist of crania and postcrania. Thus, about 30% of the osteology of the taxon is preserved. All of the pseudosuchian elements collected at the locality appear to belong to Heptasuchus clarki and the taxon is not a chimera as previously hypothesized. Heptasuchus clarki is distinct from all other archosaurs by the presence of large, posteriorly directed flanges on the parabasisphenoid and a distinct, orbit-overhanging postfrontal. Our phylogenetic hypothesis posits a sister-taxon relationship between Heptasuchus clarki and the Ladinian-aged Batrachotomus kupferzellensis from current-day Germany within Loricata. These two taxa share a number of apomorphies from across the skull and their phylogenetic position further supports 'rauisuchian' paraphyly. A minimum of three individuals of Heptasuchus are present at the type locality suggesting that a group of individuals died together, similar to other aggregations of loricatans (e.g., Heptasuchus, Batrachotomus, Decuriasuchus, Postosuchus).}, }
@article {pmid33192900, year = {2020}, author = {Blum, CR and Fitch, WT and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Rapid Learning and Long-Term Memory for Dangerous Humans in Ravens (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {581794}, pmid = {33192900}, issn = {1664-1078}, support = {W 1262/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Like many predatory species, humans have pronounced individual differences in their interactions with potential prey: some humans pose a lethal threat while others may provide valuable resources. Recognizing individual humans would thus allow prey species to maximize potential rewards while ensuring survival. Previous studies on corvids showed they can recognize and remember individual humans. For instance, wild American crows produced alarm calls toward specifically masked humans up to 2.7 years after those humans had caught and ringed them while wearing that mask. However, individual behavior of the crows or the impact of social features on their responses, was hardly examined. Here, we studied predator learning and social effects on responses, using a similar method, in captive common ravens (Corvus corax). We investigated learning and the impact of key social components on individual reactions to artificial predators. Human experimenters wore two types of masks while walking past two raven aviaries. In four training trials, the "dangerous" mask was presented while carrying a dead raven, whereas the "neutral" mask was presented empty-handed. Between every training trial and in all following trials, we presented both masks without dead ravens. We assessed the subjects' (i) learning speed, (ii) selective long-term response, and (iii) potential effects of social dynamics on individual alarm calling frequency. Ravens learned quickly (often based on the first trial), and some individuals distinguished the dangerous from the neutral mask for the next 4 years. Despite having received the same amount and quality of exposure to the dangerous mask, we found pronounced individual differences in alarm calling that were fairly consistent across test trials in socially stable situations: dominance, but not sex explained individual differences in alarm responses, indicating the potential use of alarm calls as "status symbols." These findings fit to those in wild bird populations and dominant individuals signaling their quality. Changes in the individuals' participation and intensity of alarm calling coincided with changes in group composition and pair formation, further supporting the role of social context on ravens' alarm calling.}, }
@article {pmid33185595, year = {2020}, author = {Satoh, M and Ogawa, JI and Tokita, T and Matsumoto, Y and Nakao, K and Tabei, KI and Kato, N and Tomimoto, H}, title = {The Effects of a 5-Year Physical Exercise Intervention with Music in Community- Dwelling Normal Elderly People: The Mihama-Kiho Follow-Up Project.}, journal = {Journal of Alzheimer's disease : JAD}, volume = {78}, number = {4}, pages = {1493-1507}, doi = {10.3233/JAD-200480}, pmid = {33185595}, issn = {1875-8908}, mesh = {*Activities of Daily Living ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Atrophy ; *Cognition ; *Exercise ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Functional Status ; Humans ; Independent Living ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; *Music ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Temporal Lobe/*diagnostic imaging/pathology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: We previously reported the enhanced effects of physical exercise when combined with music (ExM) on cognitive function in community-dwelling normal elderly people compared to exercise alone. Following that study, participants voluntarily continued the ExM classes for 5 years.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To identify the effects of a 5-year ExM intervention on cognitive function in normal elderly people.<br><br>METHODS: Fifty-four subjects continued the ExM classes once a week for 5 years (ExM group). Thirty-three subjects retired from the ExM class during the 5 years (Retired group). Twenty-one subjects never participated in any intervention over the 5 years (No-exercise group). Cognitive function and ADLs were assessed using neuropsychological batteries and the functional independence measure (FIM), respectively. The voxel-based specific regional analysis system for Alzheimer's disease (VSRAD) was used to investigate medial temporal lobe atrophy.<br><br>RESULTS: Analyses of the raw scores after the 5-year intervention showed significant differences between the ExM and No-exercise groups in their MMSE scores, Raven's colored progressive matrices (RCPM) time, logical memory (LM)-I, as well as the total and physical exercise sub-scores of the FIM. Analysis of subjects aged 70- 79 years at the beginning of this project showed significantly quicker performance on the RCPM in the ExM compared to No-exercise groups. The correlation coefficients between the total number of ExM sessions attended and the degree of changes in physical, neuropsychological, and VSRAD scores were significant for RCPM performance time and LM-I scores.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Long-term ExM intervention reinforces multifaceted cognitive function in normal elderly people, and is especially beneficial for psychomotor speed.}, }
@article {pmid33183800, year = {2021}, author = {Drysdale, M and Ratelle, M and Skinner, K and Garcia-Barrios, J and Gamberg, M and Williams, M and Majowicz, S and Bouchard, M and Stark, K and Chalil, D and Laird, BD}, title = {Human biomonitoring results of contaminant and nutrient biomarkers in Old Crow, Yukon, Canada.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {760}, number = {}, pages = {143339}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.143339}, pmid = {33183800}, issn = {1879-1026}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Arctic Regions ; Biological Monitoring ; Biomarkers ; Canada ; *Crows ; Environmental Monitoring ; *Environmental Pollutants/analysis ; Humans ; Yukon Territory ; }, abstract = {Several large-scale human biomonitoring projects have been conducted in Canada, including the Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS) and the First Nations Biomonitoring Initiative (FNBI). However, neither of these studies included participants living in the Yukon. To address this data gap, a human biomonitoring project was implemented in Old Crow, a fly-in Gwich'in community in the northern Yukon. The results of this project provide baseline levels of contaminant and nutrient biomarkers from Old Crow in 2019. Samples of hair, blood, and/or urine were collected from approximately 44% of community residents (77 of 175 adults). These samples were analyzed for contaminants (including heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants (POPs)), and nutrients (including trace elements and omega-3 fatty acids). Levels of these analytes were compared to health-based guidance values, when available, and results from other human biomonitoring projects in Canada. Levels of lead (GM 0.64 μg/g creatinine in urine/24 μg/L blood), cadmium (GM 0.32 μg/g creatinine in urine/0.85 μg/L blood), and mercury (GM < LOD in urine/0.76 μg/L blood/0.31 μg/g hair) were below select health-based guidance values for more than 95% of participants. However, compared to the general Canadian population, elevated levels of some contaminants, including lead (approximately 2× higher), cobalt (approximately 1.5× higher), manganese (approximately 1.3× higher), and hexachlorobenzene (approximately 1.5× higher) were observed. In contrast, levels of other POPs, including insecticides such as dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), its metabolite, dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were similar to, or lower than, those reported in the general Canadian population. This study can be used along with future biomonitoring programs to evaluate the effectiveness of international initiatives designed to reduce the contaminant burden in the Arctic, including the Stockholm Convention and the Minamata Convention. Regionally, this project complements environmental monitoring being conducted in the region, informing local and regional traditional food consumption advisories.}, }
@article {pmid33183538, year = {2020}, author = {Akubuilo, UC and Iloh, KK and Onu, JU and Iloh, ON and Ubesie, AC and Ikefuna, AN}, title = {Nutritional status of primary school children: Association with intelligence quotient and academic performance.}, journal = {Clinical nutrition ESPEN}, volume = {40}, number = {}, pages = {208-213}, doi = {10.1016/j.clnesp.2020.09.019}, pmid = {33183538}, issn = {2405-4577}, mesh = {*Academic Performance ; Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Humans ; Intelligence ; *Nutritional Status ; Schools ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Nutrition plays a pivotal role in brain development throughout life. Sub-optimal intellectual ability and poor school performance are said to be among the long term effects of malnutrition. The aim of this study was to determine the association between nutritional status of the participants, their intelligence quotient (IQ) and academic performance.<br><br>METHODS: Children aged 6-12 years who met the inclusion criteria were recruited from the public and private primary schools in the local government area using a proportionate multistage sampling technique. Weight and height were measured using standard protocols and interpreted as normal or abnormal using the World Health Organization AnthroPlus&#xae;. IQ was assessed using the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices and was grouped into optimal and suboptimal. Academic performance was assessed using the past records of class assessment, and was classified into high, average and low academic performance. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain data such as-age, gender, socioeconomic indices and family size of the study participants.<br><br>RESULTS: The prevalence of underweight, thinness (wasting), stunting, overweight and obesity were 2.0%, 3.6%, 2.1%, 6.7%, and 4.2%, respectively. Indices of over-nutrition were significantly associated with optimal IQ and good academic performance. There was a trend in the association between wasting and suboptimal intelligence [AOR (95%CI)&#xa0;=&#xa0;1.5 (1.0-3.0), p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.06].<br><br>CONCLUSION: Acute and chronic under-nutrition did not adversely affect the IQ and academic performance of the study population. The relationship between over-nutrition, IQ and academic performance disappeared when socio-economic status was controlled for.}, }
@article {pmid33169920, year = {2021}, author = {Caverzan, J and Mussi, L and Sufi, B and Padovani, G and Nazato, L and Camargo, FB and Magalhães, WV and Di Stasi, LC}, title = {A new phytocosmetic preparation from Thymus vulgaris stimulates adipogenesis and controls skin aging process: In vitro studies and topical effects in a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {20}, number = {7}, pages = {2190-2202}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.13818}, pmid = {33169920}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//The Research Project was supported by Chemyunion Ltd., SP, Brazil/ ; }, mesh = {Adipogenesis ; Animals ; Basic-Leucine Zipper Transcription Factors ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Fibroblasts ; Mice ; *Skin Aging ; *Thymus Plant ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The use of the injectable products for soft tissue augmentation and treatment of skin aging is an uncomfortable, invasive and related to several complications, and chronic reactions, mainly after long-term application. Efforts to develop new topically active anti-aging products with fewer adverse effects are a huge challenge that should be faced.<br><br>AIMS: We evaluated the anti-aging effects of a phytocosmetic preparation containing Thymus vulgaris associated with lecithin (ThymLec) on the facial wrinkles, expression lines, and face oval remodeling using a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial and in vitro cell culture assays.<br><br>METHODS: A clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of ThymLec 2% on the area, length, and depth of the perioral and crow's feet wrinkles, nasolabial and smile lines, as well as face oval remodeling in female volunteers using a sophisticated Bio3D Structured-light Scanner. In the in vitro studies using 3T3-L1 mouse embryonic fibroblasts, adiponectin was measured by immunoenzymatic assay, adipogenesis by the AdipoRed reagent method, and the PPAR-&#x3b3; expression by RT-PCR analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: Topical treatment with ThymLec 2% reduced facial wrinkles and expression lines promoting a face oval remodeling. In the in vitro studies, ThymLec upregulated the PPAR-&#x3b3; expression increasing adiponectin production and stimulating the adipogenesis process.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The phytocosmetic preparation containing Thymus vulgaris and lecithin is an innovative and safe topical anti-aging product promoting fat tissue augmentation by adipogenesis stimulation via the upregulation of PPAR-&#x3b3; expression and adiponectin production.}, }
@article {pmid33159902, year = {2021}, author = {Shahhosseini, N and Frederick, C and Racine, T and Kobinger, GP and Wong, G}, title = {Modeling host-feeding preference and molecular systematics of mosquitoes in different ecological niches in Canada.}, journal = {Acta tropica}, volume = {213}, number = {}, pages = {105734}, doi = {10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105734}, pmid = {33159902}, issn = {1873-6254}, mesh = {Aedes/classification/genetics/physiology ; Algorithms ; Animals ; Blood ; Canada ; Culex/classification/genetics/physiology ; Culicidae/classification/genetics/*physiology ; Deer ; Ecosystem ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; *Host Specificity ; Humans ; Phylogeny ; Swine ; }, abstract = {Several mosquito-borne viruses (mobovirus) cause infections in Canada. Ecological data on mosquito species and host range in Canada remains elusive. The main aim of the current study is to determine the host range and molecular systematics of mosquito species in Canada. Mosquitoes were collected using BG-Sentinel traps and aspirators at 10 trapping sites in Canada during 2018 and 2019. Mosquitoes collected were identified via morphology and molecular techniques. Mosquito sequences were aligned by MUSCLE algorithm and evolutionary systematics were drawn using MEGA and SDT software. Moreover, the source of blood meals was identified using a DNA barcoding technique. A total of 5,708 female mosquitoes over 34 different taxa were collected. DNA barcodes and evolutionary tree analysis confirmed the identification of mosquito species in Canada. Of the total collected samples, 201 specimens were blood-fed female mosquitoes in 20 different taxa. Four mosquito species represented about half (51.47%) of all collected blood-fed specimens: Aede cinereus (39 specimens, 19.11%), Aedes triseriatus (23, 11.27%), Culex pipiens (22, 10.78%), and Anopheles punctipennis (21, 10.29%). The most common blood meal sources were humans (49 mosquito specimens, 24% of all blood-fed mosquito specimen), pigs (44, 21.5%), American red squirrels (28, 13.7%), white-tailed deers (28, 13.7%), and American crows (16, 7.8%). Here, we present the first analysis of the host-feeding preference of different mosquito species in Canada via molecular techniques. Our results on mosquito distribution and behavior will aid in the development of effective mitigation and control strategies to prevent or reduce human/animal health issues in regards to moboviruses.}, }
@article {pmid33159552, year = {2021}, author = {Heasley, LR and Sampaio, NMV and Argueso, JL}, title = {Systemic and rapid restructuring of the genome: a new perspective on punctuated equilibrium.}, journal = {Current genetics}, volume = {67}, number = {1}, pages = {57-63}, pmid = {33159552}, issn = {1432-0983}, support = {K99 GM134193/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; R35 GM119788/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; 1K99GM13419301/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; R35GM11978801/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Genome, Fungal/*genetics ; Genomic Instability/genetics ; Saccharomyces cerevisiae/*genetics ; }, abstract = {The rates and patterns by which cells acquire mutations profoundly shape their evolutionary trajectories and phenotypic potential. Conventional models maintain that mutations are acquired independently of one another over many successive generations. Yet, recent evidence suggests that cells can also experience mutagenic processes that drive rapid genome evolution. One such process manifests as punctuated bursts of genomic instability, in which multiple new mutations are acquired simultaneously during transient episodes of genomic instability. This mutational mode is reminiscent of the theory of punctuated equilibrium, proposed by Stephen Jay Gould and Niles Eldredge in 1972 to explain the burst-like appearance of new species in the fossil record. In this review, we survey the dominant and emerging theories of eukaryotic genome evolution with a particular focus on the growing body of work that substantiates the existence and importance of punctuated bursts of genomic instability. In addition, we summarize and discuss two recent studies from our own group, the results of which indicate that punctuated bursts systemic genomic instability (SGI) can rapidly reconfigure the structure of the diploid genome of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.}, }
@article {pmid33150697, year = {2021}, author = {Armenteros, JA and Caro, J and SÁnchez-GarcÍa, C and Arroyo, B and PÉrez, JA and Gaudioso, VR and Tizado, EJ}, title = {Do non-target species visit feeders and water troughs targeting small game? A study from farmland Spain using camera-trapping.}, journal = {Integrative zoology}, volume = {16}, number = {2}, pages = {226-239}, doi = {10.1111/1749-4877.12496}, pmid = {33150697}, issn = {1749-4877}, mesh = {Animal Feed ; Animals ; *Animals, Wild ; *Drinking Behavior ; *Feeding Behavior ; Photography/veterinary ; Spain ; Water ; }, abstract = {Provision of food and water is a widespread tool implemented around the world for the benefit of game and other wildlife, but factors affecting the use of food and water by non-target species are poorly known. We evaluated visits to feeders and water troughs by non-game species using camera-traps in two separate areas of Spain. Feeders and water troughs were either "protected" (when surrounded by more than 50% of shrubs/forest) or "open" (in the opposite case). A total of 18 948 photos from 5344 camera-trapping days depicted animals, and 75 species were identified. Feeders and water troughs were visited by target species (partridges and lagomorphs, 55.3% of visits) and non-target species (44.7% of visits). Among the latter, corvids were the most common (46.1% of visits), followed by rodents (26.8%), other birds (23.6%, mainly passerines), columbids (1.9%), and other species at minor percentages. The highest proportion of visiting days to feeders and water troughs was from corvids (0.173) followed by other-birds (0.109) and rodents (0.083); the lowest proportion was recorded for columbids (0.016). Use intensity and visit frequency of water troughs tripled that recorded in feeders, and visits to open feeders/troughs were approximately twice those to protected ones. In summary: feeders and water troughs targeting small game species are also used regularly by non-target ones; they should be set close to cover to optimize their use by non-target species that are not competitors of target species (though corvids may visit them); water availability should be prioritized where drought periods are expected.}, }
@article {pmid33149408, year = {2020}, author = {Tharay, N and Nirmala, S and Bavikati, VN and Nuvvula, S}, title = {Dermatoglyphics as a Novel Method for Assessing Intelligence Quotient in Children Aged 5-11 Years: A Cross-sectional Study.}, journal = {International journal of clinical pediatric dentistry}, volume = {13}, number = {4}, pages = {355-360}, pmid = {33149408}, issn = {0974-7052}, abstract = {AIM: To measure the IQ and record dermatoglyphic patterns of children including intellectually disabled aged between 5 years and 11 years and to correlate them.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study was a cross-sectional study conducted in two private schools in the city corporation limits. A total of 300 children aged between 5 years and 11 years were equally allocated into three groups based on IQ using covariate adaptive randomization. IQ of the children was measured using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices. Bilateral palmar and finger prints were obtained on A4-size papers by ink method using rolling technique. Prints thus obtained were analyzed for dermatoglyphic variables using magnification lens and are read based on Cummins and Midlo classification for fingertip patterns and Bali and Chaube classification for palmar flexion creases. The data were entered and statistically analyzed. For statistical significance, a two-tailed probability value of less than 0.05 was taken as significant.<br><br>RESULTS: The current study suggests a relationship between different fingertip patterns of digits of I, II, III, and IV of left and right hand and also digit V of right hand with various levels of IQ.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Hence, dermatoglyphics can be considered as a preliminary noninvasive approach for the determination of IQ. Also, it plays an imperative role, especially in distinguishing genetic intellectual disabilities.<br><br>HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Tharay N, Nirmala SVSG, Bavikati VN, et a l. Dermatoglyphics as a Novel Method for Assessing Intelligence Quotient in Children Aged 5-11 Years: A Cross-sectional Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2020;13(4):355-360.}, }
@article {pmid33148225, year = {2020}, author = {Xu, K and An, N and Huang, H and Duan, L and Ma, J and Ding, J and He, T and Zhu, J and Li, Z and Cheng, X and Zhou, G and Ba, Y}, title = {Fluoride exposure and intelligence in school-age children: evidence from different windows of exposure susceptibility.}, journal = {BMC public health}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {1657}, pmid = {33148225}, issn = {1471-2458}, support = {81972981//Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 81673116//Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 162300410272//Henan Department of Science and Technology, China/ ; 2020ZZUKCSZ008//Zhengzhou University/ ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Child ; Child Development/*drug effects ; China ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Fluorides/*adverse effects/urine ; Humans ; Intelligence/*drug effects ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Pregnancy ; Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects ; Schools ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The intellectual loss induced by fluoride exposure has been extensively studied, but the association between fluoride exposure in different susceptibility windows and children's intelligence is rarely reported. Hence, we conducted a cross-sectional study to explore the association between fluoride exposure in prenatal and childhood periods and intelligence quotient (IQ).<br><br>METHODS: We recruited 633 local children aged 7-13&#x2009;years old randomly from four primary schools in Kaifeng, China in 2017. The children were divided into four groups, of which included: control group (CG, n&#x2009;=&#x2009;228), only prenatal excessive fluoride exposure group (PFG, n&#x2009;=&#x2009;107), only childhood excessive fluoride exposure group (CFG, n&#x2009;=&#x2009;157), both prenatal and childhood excessive fluoride exposure group (BFG, n&#x2009;=&#x2009;141). The concentrations of urinary fluoride (UF) and urinary creatinine (UCr) were determined by fluoride ion-selective electrode assay and a creatinine assay kit (picric acid method), respectively. The concentration of UCr-adjusted urinary fluoride (CUF) was calculated. IQ score was assessed using the second revision of the Combined Raven's Test-The Rural in China (CRT-RC2). Threshold and saturation effects analysis, multiple linear regression analysis and logistic regression analysis were conducted to analyze the&#xa0;association between fluoride exposure and IQ.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean IQ score in PFG was respectively lower than those in CG, CFG and BFG (P&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). The odds of developing excellent intelligence among children in PFG decreased by 51.1% compared with children in CG (OR&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.489, 95% CI: 0.279, 0.858). For all the children, CUF concentration of &#x2265;1.7&#x2009;mg/L was negatively associated with IQ scores (&#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;-&#x2009;4.965, 95% CI: -&#x2009;9.198, -&#x2009;0.732, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.022). In children without prenatal fluoride exposure, every 1.0&#x2009;mg/L increment in the CUF concentration of &#x2265;2.1&#x2009;mg/L was related to a reduction of 11.4 points in children's IQ scores (95% CI: -&#x2009;19.2, -&#x2009;3.5, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.005).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Prenatal and childhood excessive fluoride exposures may impair the intelligence development of school children. Furthermore, children with prenatal fluoride exposure had lower IQ scores than children who were not prenatally exposed; therefore the reduction of IQ scores at higher levels of fluoride exposure in childhood does not become that evident.}, }
@article {pmid33143583, year = {2020}, author = {Boeckle, M and Schiestl, M and Frohnwieser, A and Gruber, R and Miller, R and Suddendorf, T and Gray, RD and Taylor, AH and Clayton, NS}, title = {New Caledonian crows plan for specific future tool use.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {287}, number = {1938}, pages = {20201490}, pmid = {33143583}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; New Caledonia ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The ability to plan for future events is one of the defining features of human intelligence. Whether non-human animals can plan for specific future situations remains contentious: despite a sustained research effort over the last two decades, there is still no consensus on this question. Here, we show that New Caledonian crows can use tools to plan for specific future events. Crows learned a temporal sequence where they were (a) shown a baited apparatus, (b) 5 min later given a choice of five objects and (c) 10 min later given access to the apparatus. At test, these crows were presented with one of two tool-apparatus combinations. For each combination, the crows chose the right tool for the right future task, while ignoring previously useful tools and a low-value food item. This study establishes that planning for specific future tool use can evolve via convergent evolution, given that corvids and humans shared a common ancestor over 300 million years ago, and offers a route to mapping the planning capacities of animals.}, }
@article {pmid33139274, year = {2020}, author = {Kutilova, I and Valcek, A and Papagiannitsis, CC and Cejkova, D and Masarikova, M and Paskova, V and Davidova-Gerzova, L and Videnska, P and Hrabak, J and Literak, I and Dolejska, M}, title = {Carbapenemase-Producing Gram-Negative Bacteria from American Crows in the United States.}, journal = {Antimicrobial agents and chemotherapy}, volume = {65}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {33139274}, issn = {1098-6596}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; *Crows ; Enterobacter ; *Klebsiella Infections ; Klebsiella pneumoniae/genetics ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Plasmids/genetics ; Providencia ; United States ; beta-Lactamases/genetics ; }, abstract = {Wild corvids were examined for the presence of carbapenemase-producing Gram-negative bacteria in the United States. A total of 13 isolates were detected among 590 fecal samples of American crow; 11 Providencia rettgeri isolates harboring blaIMP-27 on the chromosome as a class 2 integron gene cassette within the Tn7 transposon, 1 Klebsiella pneumoniae ST258 isolate carrying blaKPC-2 on a pKpQIL-like plasmid as a part of Tn4401a, and 1 Enterobacter bugandensis isolate with blaIMI-1 located within EcloIMEX-2.}, }
@article {pmid33126740, year = {2020}, author = {Islam, A and Islam, S and Hossain, ME and Ferdous, J and Abedin, J and Ziaur Rahman, M and Rahman, MK and Hoque, MA and Hassan, MM}, title = {Serological Evidence of West Nile Virus in Wild Birds in Bangladesh.}, journal = {Veterinary sciences}, volume = {7}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {33126740}, issn = {2306-7381}, abstract = {West Nile Virus (WNV) is a vector-borne zoonotic disease maintained in a sylvatic cycle involving mosquito vectors and birds. To detect WNV and other flavivirus infections in wild resident and migratory birds, we tested 184 samples from 19 identified species within nine families collected during 2012-2016 from four districts in Bangladesh. We tested serum samples for the immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody against WNV using competitive Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (c-ELISA), whereas tracheal and cloacal swabs were subjected to consensus Polymerase Chain Reaction (c-PCR) for the detection of the flavivirus RNA. Overall, we detected 11.9% (n = 22; 95% CI: 0.07-0.16) samples were seropositive, including 15.9% in the migratory wild birds and 10.7% in the resident wild birds. The migratory wild Tufted duck showed 28.5% seropositivity, whereas the resident wild house crows showed 12.5% seropositivity. None of the swab samples was positive for flavivirus RNA infection (0%, n = 184; 95% CI: 0-0.019). These study findings recommend continued surveillance for early detection and to better understand the epidemiology of WNV and other flavivirus circulation in both birds and mosquitoes in Bangladesh.}, }
@article {pmid33125552, year = {2020}, author = {Prakas, P and Butkauskas, D and Juozaitytė-Ngugu, E}, title = {Molecular and morphological description of Sarcocystis kutkienae sp. nov. from the common raven (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {119}, number = {12}, pages = {4205-4210}, doi = {10.1007/s00436-020-06941-8}, pmid = {33125552}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Crows/*parasitology ; DNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; Lithuania ; Oocysts/classification/cytology/genetics/ultrastructure ; Phylogeny ; Sarcocystis/classification/*cytology/*genetics/ultrastructure ; Sarcocystosis/parasitology/*veterinary ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Until now, two Sarcocystis species, S. cornixi and S. corvusi, were known to employ members of the family Corvidae as intermediate hosts. Between 2013 and 2019, having examined leg muscles of 23 common ravens in Lithuania, sarcocysts were detected in 18 birds (78.3%). Using light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and molecular analysis (three genetic loci, 18S rDNA, 28S rDNA, and ITS1), sarcocysts found in the common raven were described as a new species S. kutkienae. Under a light microscope, the observed sarcocysts were ribbon-shaped (1500-8147 × 53-79 μm) and had a wavy striated cyst wall that reached up to 1.5 μm. Lancet-shaped bradyzoites were 7.7 × 2.2 μm (6.1-9.0 × 1.2-3.0 μm) in size. Ultrastructurally, the sarcocyst wall was 1.5-1.8 μm in thickness and had conical-like protrusions with minute invaginations of a parasitophorous vacuolar membrane. The cyst wall was type 1e-like. Limited genetic variability was observed between the 18S rDNA and 28S rDNA sequences of S. kutkienae and other Sarcocystis spp. using birds as intermediate hosts. In contrast, S. kutkienae could be clearly identified by comparing sequences. At this locus, sequences of S. kutkienae shared the highest similarity (89.5-89.7%) with those of S. cornixi. Phylogenetic analysis showed that S. kutkienae was most closely related to Sarcocystis spp. that employs birds as intermediate and definitive hosts. The issue relating to which species might serve as definitive hosts of S. kutkienae in Lithuania is addressed.}, }
@article {pmid33117228, year = {2020}, author = {Cabrera-Álvarez, MJ and Clayton, NS}, title = {Neural Processes Underlying Tool Use in Humans, Macaques, and Corvids.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {560669}, pmid = {33117228}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {It was thought that tool use in animals is an adaptive specialization. Recent studies, however, have shown that some non-tool-users, such as rooks and jays, can use and manufacture tools in laboratory settings. Despite the abundant evidence of tool use in corvids, little is known about the neural mechanisms underlying tool use in this family of birds. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the neural processes underlying tool use in humans, macaques and corvids. We suggest a possible neural network for tool use in macaques and hope this might inspire research to discover a similar brain network in corvids. We hope to establish a framework to elucidate the neural mechanisms that supported the convergent evolution of tool use in birds and mammals.}, }
@article {pmid33115663, year = {2021}, author = {Cai, QL and Peng, DJ and Lin-Zhao,  and Chen, JW and Yong-Li,  and Luo, HL and Ou, SY and Huang, ML and Jiang, YM}, title = {Impact of Lead Exposure on Thyroid Status and IQ Performance among School-age Children Living Nearby a Lead-Zinc Mine in China.}, journal = {Neurotoxicology}, volume = {82}, number = {}, pages = {177-185}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuro.2020.10.010}, pmid = {33115663}, issn = {1872-9711}, mesh = {Child ; China/epidemiology ; Diet, Healthy ; Drinking Water/adverse effects ; Female ; Glutamic Acid/blood ; Humans ; Intelligence/*drug effects ; Intelligence Tests ; *Lead/analysis/blood ; Lead Poisoning/*complications/etiology ; Male ; *Mining ; Oryza/chemistry ; Risk Factors ; Thyroid Gland/*drug effects ; Thyroid Hormones/blood ; Thyrotropin/blood ; Tobacco Smoke Pollution/adverse effects ; *Zinc ; gamma-Aminobutyric Acid/blood ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Lead exposure is one of the most concerning public health problems worldwide, particularly among children. Yet the impact of chronic lead exposure on the thyroid status and related intelligence quotient performance among school-age children remained elusive.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of lead exposure on the thyroid hormones, amino acid neurotransmitters balances, and intelligence quotient (IQ) among school-age children living nearby a lead-zinc mining site. Other factors such as rice lead levels, mothers' smoking behavior, and diet intake were also investigated.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 255 children aged 7-12 years old were recruited in this study. Blood lead level (BLL), thyroid hormones including free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and amino acid neurotransmitters such as glutamate (Glu), glutamine (Gln), and &#x3b3;-aminobutyric acid (GABA) were measured using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (GFAAS), chemiluminescence immunoassay, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Raven's standard progressive matrices (SPM) and the questionnaire were used to determine IQ and collect related influence factors.<br><br>RESULTS: The average BLL of children was 84.8 &#x3bc;g/L. The occurrence of lead intoxication (defined as the BLL &#x2265; 100 &#x3bc;g/L) was 31.8%. Serum TSH levels and IQ of lead-intoxicated children were significantly lower than those without lead toxicity. The GABA level of girls with the lead intoxication was higher than those with no lead-exposed group. Correlation analyses revealed that BLL were inversely associated with the serum TSH levels (R= -0.186, p < 0.05), but positively related with IQ grades (R = 0.147, p < 0.05). Moreover, BLL and Glu were inversely correlated with IQ. In addition, this study revealed four factors that may contribute to the incidence of lead intoxication among children, including the frequency of mother smoking (OR = 3.587, p < 0.05) and drinking un-boiled stagnant tap water (OR = 3.716, p < 0.05); eating fresh fruits and vegetables (OR = 0.323, p < 0.05) and soy products regularly (OR = 0.181, p < 0.05) may protect against lead intoxication.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Lead exposure affects the serum TSH, GABA levels and IQ of school-aged children. Developing good living habits, improving environment, increasing the intake of high-quality protein and fresh vegetable and fruit may improve the condition of lead intoxication.}, }
@article {pmid33114480, year = {2020}, author = {De Allegri, M and Srivastava, S and Strupat, C and Brenner, S and Parmar, D and Parisi, D and Walsh, C and Mahajan, S and Neogi, R and Ziegler, S and Basu, S and Jain, N}, title = {Mixed and Multi-Methods Protocol to Evaluate Implementation Processes and Early Effects of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana Scheme in Seven Indian States.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {17}, number = {21}, pages = {}, pmid = {33114480}, issn = {1660-4601}, mesh = {Health Services ; Health Services Accessibility/organization &amp; administration ; *Hospitals ; India ; *Insurance, Health ; Program Evaluation/methods ; Quality of Health Care ; }, abstract = {In September 2018, India launched Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), a nationally implemented government-funded health insurance scheme to improve access to quality inpatient care, increase financial protection, and reduce unmet need for the most vulnerable population groups. This protocol describes the methodology adopted to evaluate implementation processes and early effects of PM-JAY in seven Indian states. The study adopts a mixed and multi-methods concurrent triangulation design including three components: 1. demand-side household study, including a structured survey and qualitative elements, to quantify and understand PM-JAY reach and its effect on insurance awareness, health service utilization, and financial protection; 2. supply-side hospital-based survey encompassing both quantitative and qualitative elements to assess the effect of PM-JAY on quality of service delivery and to explore healthcare providers' experiences with scheme implementation; and 3. process documentation to examine implementation processes in selected states transitioning from either no or prior health insurance to PM-JAY. Descriptive statistics and quasi-experimental methods will be used to analyze quantitative data, while thematic analysis will be used to analyze qualitative data. The study design presented represents the first effort to jointly evaluate implementation processes and early effects of the largest government-funded health insurance scheme ever launched in India.}, }
@article {pmid33114239, year = {2020}, author = {Shriner, SA and Root, JJ}, title = {A Review of Avian Influenza A Virus Associations in Synanthropic Birds.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {12}, number = {11}, pages = {}, pmid = {33114239}, issn = {1999-4915}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Domestic/virology ; Animals, Wild/*virology ; Birds/classification/*virology ; Influenza A virus/*physiology ; Influenza in Birds/*transmission ; Poultry/*virology ; }, abstract = {Avian influenza A viruses (IAV) have received significant attention due to the threat they pose to human, livestock, and wildlife health. In this review, we focus on what is known about IAV dynamics in less common avian species that may play a role in trafficking IAVs to poultry operations. Specifically, we focus on synanthropic bird species. Synanthropic species, otherwise known as peridomestic, are species that are ecologically associated with humans and anthropogenically modified landscapes, such as agricultural and urban areas. Aquatic birds such as waterfowl and shorebirds are the species most commonly associated with avian IAVs, and are generally considered the reservoir or maintenance hosts in the natural ecology of these viruses. Waterfowl and shorebirds are occasionally associated with poultry facilities, but are uncommon or absent in many areas, especially large commercial operations. In these cases, spillover hosts that share resources with both maintenance hosts and target hosts such as poultry may play an important role in introducing wild bird viruses onto farms. Consequently, our focus here is on what is known about IAV dynamics in synanthropic hosts that are commonly found on both farms and in nearby habitats, such as fields, lakes, wetlands, or riparian areas occupied by waterfowl or shorebirds.}, }
@article {pmid33113033, year = {2021}, author = {Laumer, IB and Jelbert, SA and Taylor, AH and Rössler, T and Auersperg, AMI}, title = {Object manufacture based on a memorized template: Goffin's cockatoos attend to different model features.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {24}, number = {3}, pages = {457-470}, pmid = {33113033}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {P 29075/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; P29075//FWF/ ; CS 18-023//WWTF/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Cockatoos ; Learning ; Memory ; *Parrots ; Reward ; }, abstract = {Although several nonhuman animals have the ability to recognize and match templates in computerized tasks, we know little about their ability to recall and then physically manufacture specific features of mental templates. Across three experiments, Goffin cockatoos (Cacatua goffiniana), a species that can use tools in captivity, were exposed to two pre-made template objects, varying in either colour, size (long or short) or shape (I or L-shaped), where only one template was rewarded. Birds were then given the opportunity to manufacture versions of these objects themselves. We found that all birds carved paper strips from the same colour material as the rewarded template, and half were also able to match the size of a template (long and short). This occurred despite the template being absent at test and birds being rewarded at random. However, we found no evidence that cockatoos could carve L-shaped pieces after learning that L-shaped templates were rewarded, though their manufactured strips were wider than in previous tests. Overall, our results show that Goffin cockatoos possess the ability to physically adjust at least the size dimension of manufactured objects relative to a mental template. This ability has previously only been shown in New Caledonian crows, where template matching was suggested as a potential mechanism allowing for the cumulative cultural transmission of tool designs. Our results show that within avian tool users, the ability to recreate a physical template from memory does not seem to be restricted to species that have cumulative tool cultures.}, }
@article {pmid33102596, year = {2020}, author = {Prabhakar, SK and Rajaguru, H and Kim, SH}, title = {An Amalgamated Approach to Bilevel Feature Selection Techniques Utilizing Soft Computing Methods for Classifying Colon Cancer.}, journal = {BioMed research international}, volume = {2020}, number = {}, pages = {8427574}, pmid = {33102596}, issn = {2314-6141}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Colonic Neoplasms/*genetics/*pathology ; Discriminant Analysis ; Gene Expression/genetics ; Gene Expression Profiling/methods ; Humans ; Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis/methods ; }, abstract = {One of the deadliest diseases which affects the large intestine is colon cancer. Older adults are typically affected by colon cancer though it can happen at any age. It generally starts as small benign growth of cells that forms on the inside of the colon, and later, it develops into cancer. Due to the propagation of somatic alterations that affects the gene expression, colon cancer is caused. A standardized format for assessing the expression levels of thousands of genes is provided by the DNA microarray technology. The tumors of various anatomical regions can be distinguished by the patterns of gene expression in microarray technology. As the microarray data is too huge to process due to the curse of dimensionality problem, an amalgamated approach of utilizing bilevel feature selection techniques is proposed in this paper. In the first level, the genes or the features are dimensionally reduced with the help of Multivariate Minimum Redundancy-Maximum Relevance (MRMR) technique. Then, in the second level, six optimization techniques are utilized in this work for selecting the best genes or features before proceeding to classification process. The optimization techniques considered in this work are Invasive Weed Optimization (IWO), Teaching Learning-Based Optimization (TLBO), League Championship Optimization (LCO), Beetle Antennae Search Optimization (BASO), Crow Search Optimization (CSO), and Fruit Fly Optimization (FFO). Finally, it is classified with five suitable classifiers, and the best results show when IWO is utilized with MRMR, and then classified with Quadratic Discriminant Analysis (QDA), a classification accuracy of 99.16% is obtained.}, }
@article {pmid33096932, year = {2020}, author = {Blazkova, B and Pastorkova, A and Solansky, I and Veleminsky, M and Veleminsky, M and Rossnerova, A and Honkova, K and Rossner, P and Sram, RJ}, title = {The Impact of Cesarean and Vaginal Delivery on Results of Psychological Cognitive Test in 5 Year Old Children.}, journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)}, volume = {56}, number = {10}, pages = {}, pmid = {33096932}, issn = {1648-9144}, support = {NV 18-09-00151//Ministry of Health of the Czech Republic/ ; }, mesh = {*Cesarean Section ; Child, Preschool ; *Delivery, Obstetric ; Female ; Humans ; Mothers ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Pregnancy ; Psychological Tests ; }, abstract = {Background and objectives: The impact of cesarean and vaginal delivery on cognitive development was analyzed in 5 year old children. Materials and Methods: Two cohorts of 5 year old children born in the years 2013 and 2014 in Karvina (Northern Moravia) and Ceske Budejovice (Southern Bohemia) were studied for their cognitive development related to vaginal (n = 117) and cesarean types of delivery (n = 51). The Bender Visual Motor Gestalt Test (BG test) and the Raven Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM test) were used as psychological tests. Results: In the comparison of vaginal delivery vs. cesarean section, the children delivered by cesarean section scored lower and, therefore, achieved poorer performance in cognitive tests compared to those born by vaginal delivery, as shown in the RCPM (p < 0.001) and in the BG test (p < 0.001). When mothers' education level was considered, the children whose mothers achieved a university degree scored higher in both the RCPM test (p < 0.001) and the BG test (p < 0.01) compared to the children of mothers with lower secondary education. When comparing mothers with a university degree to those with higher secondary education, there was a significant correlation between level of education and score achieved in the RCPM test (p < 0.001), but not in the BG test. Conclusions: According to our findings, the mode of delivery seems to have a significant influence on performance in psychological cognitive tests in 5 year old children in favor of those who were born by vaginal delivery. Since cesarean-born children scored notably below vaginally born children, it appears possible that cesarean delivery may have a convincingly adverse effect on children's further cognitive development.}, }
@article {pmid33092864, year = {2021}, author = {Devarapalli, R and Bhattacharyya, B and Sinha, NK and Dey, B}, title = {Amended GWO approach based multi-machine power system stability enhancement.}, journal = {ISA transactions}, volume = {109}, number = {}, pages = {152-174}, doi = {10.1016/j.isatra.2020.09.016}, pmid = {33092864}, issn = {1879-2022}, abstract = {The conception of electromechanical oscillations initiates in the power network when there is an installation of the generator in parallel with the existent one. Further, the interconnection of multiple areas, extension in transmission, capricious load characteristics, etc. causes low-frequency oscillations in the consolidated power network. This paper proposes variants of a booming population-based grey wolf optimization (GWO) algorithm in the tuning of power system stabilizer parameters of a multi-machine system in damping low-frequency oscillations. The parameters have been tuned by framing an objective function considering the improving damping ratios for the system states with lesser damping ratios and shifting the system eigenvalues towards the left-hand side of s-plane for the improved settling characteristics for the oscillations in the system. The requisites of stabilizer strategy are mapped with the hallmarks of prevalent algorithms and designed hybrid versions of GWO for the enhancement of the multi-machine power system stability. Four variants of GWO technique are nominated based on the competent stabilizer performance namely, modified grey wolf optimization (MGWO), hybrid MGWO particle swarm optimization (MGWOPSO), hybrid MGWO sine cosine algorithm (MGWOSCA) and hybrid MGWO crow search algorithm (MGWOCSA) for the designed multi-machine power network. The proposed methods have been realized with the statistical analysis on the 23 benchmark functions. Nonparametric statistical tests, namely, Feidman test, Anova test and Quade tests, have been performed on the test system, further analysed in detail. A detailed comparative analysis under the self-clearing fault is presented to illustrate the suitability of the proposed techniques. For the analysis purpose, the location of system eigenvalues has been observed along with their oscillating frequencies and corresponding damping ratios. Further, the damping nature offered with considered system uncertainty for the system states also presented with the PSS parameters obtained by the proposed algorithms.}, }
@article {pmid33092614, year = {2020}, author = {Schvartz, G and Farnoushi, Y and Berkowitz, A and Edery, N and Hahn, S and Steinman, A and Lublin, A and Erster, O}, title = {Molecular characterization of the re-emerging West Nile virus in avian species and equids in Israel, 2018, and pathological description of the disease.}, journal = {Parasites &amp; vectors}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {528}, pmid = {33092614}, issn = {1756-3305}, support = {33-04-0002//Israli Ministry of Agriculture/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/virology ; Autopsy ; Birds/*virology ; Charadriiformes/virology ; Crows/virology ; Equidae/*virology ; Geese/virology ; Genes, Viral ; Horses/virology ; Israel/epidemiology ; Livestock/virology ; Phylogeny ; Viral Load ; *West Nile Fever/pathology/transmission/veterinary ; *West Nile virus/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In this report we describe the molecular and pathological characteristics of West Nile virus (WNV) infection that occurred during the summer and fall of 2018 in avian species and equines. WNV is reported in Israel since the 1950s, with occasional outbreaks leading to significant morbidity and mortality in birds, high infection in horses and humans, and sporadic fatalities in humans.<br><br>METHODS: Animal and avian carcasses in a suitable condition were examined by post-mortem analysis. Tissue samples were examined for WNV by RT-qPCR and the viral load was quantified. Samples with sufficient material quality were further analyzed by Endpoint PCR and sequencing, which was used for phylogenetic analysis. Tissue samples from positive animals were used for culturing the virus in Vero and C6/36 cells.<br><br>RESULTS: WNV RNA was detected in one yellow-legged gull (Larus michahellis), two long-eared owls (Asio otus), two domesticated geese (Anser anser), one pheasant (Phasianus colchicus), four hooded crows (Corvus cornix), three horses and one donkey. Pathological and histopathological findings were characteristic of viral infection. Molecular analysis and viral load quantification showed varying degrees of infection, ranging between 70-1.4&#x2009;&#xd7;&#x2009;10[6] target copies per sample. Phylogenetic analysis of a 906-bp genomic segment showed that all samples belonged to Lineage 1 clade 1a, with the following partition: five samples from 2018 and one sample detected in 2016 were of Cluster 2 Eastern European, two of Cluster 2 Mediterranean and four of Cluster 4. Four of the positive samples was successfully propagated in C6/36 and Vero cell lines for further work.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: WNV is constantly circulating in wild and domesticated birds and animals in Israel, necessitating constant surveillance in birds and equines. At least three WNV strains were circulating in the suspected birds and animals examined. Quantitative analysis showed that the viral load varies significantly between different organs and tissues of the infected animals.}, }
@article {pmid33083225, year = {2020}, author = {Basso, W and Alvarez Rojas, CA and Buob, D and Ruetten, M and Deplazes, P}, title = {Sarcocystis infection in red deer (Cervus elaphus) with eosinophilic myositis/fasciitis in Switzerland and involvement of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and hunting dogs in the transmission.}, journal = {International journal for parasitology. Parasites and wildlife}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {130-141}, pmid = {33083225}, issn = {2213-2244}, abstract = {Red deer (Cervus elaphus) carcasses showing grey-greenish discolouration have been increasingly observed in the canton of Grisons, Switzerland. We investigated whether Sarcocystis infections were associated with this pathology, and whether wild and domestic canids were involved in their transmission. Meat from affected red deer (n = 26), faeces and intestines from red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) (n = 126), and faeces from hunting dogs (n = 12) from the region, were analysed. Eosinophilic myositis and/or fasciitis were diagnosed in 69% of the deer, and sarcocysts were observed in 89% of the animals. Molecular typing targeting a ~700bp variable region of the 18S rRNA gene revealed Sarcocystis hjorti in 73%, S. venatoria/S. iberica in 54%, S. linearis/S. taeniata in 12%, S. pilosa in 8% and S. ovalis in 4% of the deer samples. No inflammatory changes were observed in red deer carcasses with normal appearance (n = 8); however, sarcocysts were observed in one sample, and S. hjorti, S. venatoria/S. iberica or S. silva DNA was detected in five samples. Sarcocystis oocysts/sporocysts were observed in 11/106 faecal and 6/20 intestinal fox samples, and in 2/12 canine samples. Sarcocystis tenella (n = 8), S. hjorti (n = 2), S. gracilis (n = 2), and S. miescheriana (n = 1) were identified in foxes, and S. gracilis (n = 2), S. capreolicanis (n = 1) and S. linearis/S. taeniata (n = 1) in dogs. This study provides first molecular evidence of S. pilosa and S. silva infection in red deer and S. linearis/S. taeniata in dogs and represents the first record of S. ovalis transmitted by corvids in Central Europe. Although Sarcocystis species infecting red deer are not regarded as zoonotic, the affected carcasses can be declared as unfit for human consumption due to the extensive pathological changes.}, }
@article {pmid33081240, year = {2020}, author = {Sen, K and Shepherd, V and Berglund, T and Quintana, A and Puim, S and Tadmori, R and J Turner, R and Khalil, L and Soares, MA}, title = {American Crows as Carriers of Extra Intestinal Pathogenic E. coli and Avian Pathogenic-Like E. coli and Their Potential Impact on a Constructed Wetland.}, journal = {Microorganisms}, volume = {8}, number = {10}, pages = {}, pmid = {33081240}, issn = {2076-2607}, support = {University of Washington, Bothell//UW Bothell Facilities Services, Bothell, WA./ ; King County , WA//King County Water Works Grant Program/ ; }, abstract = {The study examines whether crows are carriers of extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) and avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC)-like strains, and if wetland roost areas contribute to their spread. A total of 10 crow feces (n = 71) and 15 water E. coli isolates (n = 134) from a wetland area could be characterized as potentially ExPEC based on the presence of ≥2 of the five cardinal genes iutA, kpsMT2, papEF, pap A/C, papG, sfa/foc, and afa/dra, while six fecal and 14 water isolates could be characterized as potentially APEC-like based on the presence of plasmid associated genes: iutA, episomal iss, ompT, hlyF and iroN. A total of 32 fecal and 27 water isolates tested carried plasmids based on incompatibility typing. Plasmids from 34 of 38 isolates tested could be transferred to another E. coli strain by conjugation with the antibiotic resistance (AR) profile being transferred, indicating their potential to be transferred to indigenous and non-pathogenic strains in the wetland. APEC-like plasmids could be transferred in six of eight isolates tested. Pathogenic E. coli of importance to the medical community and poultry industry may be detected in high levels in surface water due to corvid activity. Regardless of their role in health or disease, water in wetlands and streams can serve as a media for the dissemination of AR and virulence traits of bacteria, with corvids acting as potential vectors for farther dissemination.}, }
@article {pmid33079060, year = {2020}, author = {Horn, L and Bugnyar, T and Griesser, M and Hengl, M and Izawa, EI and Oortwijn, T and Rössler, C and Scheer, C and Schiestl, M and Suyama, M and Taylor, AH and Vanhooland, LC and von Bayern, AM and Zürcher, Y and Massen, JJ}, title = {Sex-specific effects of cooperative breeding and colonial nesting on prosociality in corvids.}, journal = {eLife}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {33079060}, issn = {2050-084X}, support = {P26806//Austrian Science Fund/International ; JPMJCR17A4//JST CREST/International ; MKJ1905//Keio University ICR Projects/International ; Rutherford Discovery Fellowship//Royal Society of New Zealand/International ; Marie Jahoda grant//University of Vienna/International ; Y366-B17//Austrian Science Fund/International ; CS11-008//Vienna Science and Technology Fund/International ; 31BD30_172465//ERA-Net BiodivERsA/International ; F&#xf6;rderungsstipendium//University of Vienna/International ; Uni:Docs doctoral fellowship//University of Vienna/International ; 17H02653//JSPS KAKENHI/International ; 16H06324//JSPS KAKENHI/International ; 15J02148//JSPS KAKENHI/International ; F&#xf6;rderungsstipendium//University of Vienna/International ; KAKENHI 17H02653//JSPS/International ; KAKENHI 16H06324//JSPS/International ; KAKENHI 15J02148//JSPS/International ; CREST JPMJCR17A4//JST/International ; ICR Projects MKJ1905//Keio University/International ; }, mesh = {Altruism ; Animals ; *Cooperative Behavior ; *Crows ; Female ; Male ; *Nesting Behavior ; Phylogeny ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {The investigation of prosocial behavior is of particular interest from an evolutionary perspective. Comparisons of prosociality across non-human animal species have, however, so far largely focused on primates, and their interpretation is hampered by the diversity of paradigms and procedures used. Here, we present the first systematic comparison of prosocial behavior across multiple species in a taxonomic group outside the primate order, namely the bird family Corvidae. We measured prosociality in eight corvid species, which vary in the expression of cooperative breeding and colonial nesting. We show that cooperative breeding is positively associated with prosocial behavior across species. Also, colonial nesting is associated with a stronger propensity for prosocial behavior, but only in males. The combined results of our study strongly suggest that both cooperative breeding and colonial nesting, which may both rely on heightened social tolerance at the nest, are likely evolutionary pathways to prosocial behavior in corvids.}, }
@article {pmid33076765, year = {2021}, author = {Rindermann, H and Laura Ackermann, A}, title = {Piagetian Tasks and Psychometric Intelligence: Different or Similar Constructs?.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {124}, number = {6}, pages = {2795-2821}, doi = {10.1177/0033294120965876}, pmid = {33076765}, issn = {1558-691X}, mesh = {Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Problem Solving ; Psychometrics ; Schools ; }, abstract = {Research on cognitive ability is done in different paradigms. In the Piagetian paradigm, cognitive ability focuses on cognitive development along qualitative stages. Interactive real scenarios, "Piagetian tasks", are constructed for measurement. According to age, tasks differing in complexity are applied in individual measurements. In the psychometric paradigm, the investigation of cognitive ability focuses on individual differences. Intelligence is seen as a quantitative construct with gradual differences between persons and ages. Paper-and-pencil tests with items differing in difficulty are used for IQ measurement of single persons or school classes. However, do those tasks measure two distinct cognitive abilities? Solving tasks in both approaches requires basic (speed, working memory) and complex cognitive abilities (reasoning, understanding). Regarding empirical relationships, we used three Austrian samples (in kindergarten four to six years old N = 40, in primary school six to eight years old N = 40, and nine to ten years old N = 41). They were tested with psychometric tests (Raven CPM or SPM) and Piagetian tasks. In addition, mental speed (ZVT) was measured in the two school samples. The average observed correlation between IQ and Piagetian tasks was r = .51. In factor analyses, the tests loaded on a common factor of general intelligence. Further analyses revealed that mental speed is correlated more strongly with psychometric (r = .50) than with Piagetian tasks (r = .39), while Piagetian tasks are more related to parental education indicators (speed: r = .11, Raven: r = .20, Piaget: r = .25).}, }
@article {pmid33068445, year = {2021}, author = {Vachiramon, V and Subpayasarn, U and Triyangkulsri, K and Jurairattanaporn, N and Rattananukrom, T}, title = {Different injection patterns of incobotulinumtoxinA for crow's feet: a split-face comparative study.}, journal = {Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV}, volume = {35}, number = {1}, pages = {256-262}, doi = {10.1111/jdv.16997}, pmid = {33068445}, issn = {1468-3083}, mesh = {*Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; Esthetics ; Humans ; Injections, Intradermal ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: IncobotulinumtoxinA has been previously used for the treatment of lateral periorbital lines (crow's feet). However, a standardized injection technique has not been established.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To compare the efficacy and effect duration of two injection techniques of incobotulinumtoxinA for crow's feet treatment.<br><br>METHODS: Forty-eight patients with crow's feet were recruited and randomly assigned to receive bilateral treatments using either a 3-point intramuscular or a 6-point intradermal injection technique (8-12 units of incobotulinumtoxinA on each side). Improvement was assessed at 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24&#xa0;weeks postinjection. An objective evaluation was assessed by the indentation index using a 3D camera and a subjective evaluation was assessed by a blinded dermatologist using the Flynn validated assessment scale (FVAS) for the upper face. The patients assessed the results using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). Side-effects were evaluated at each visit.<br><br>RESULTS: After treatment, a significantly greater reduction in the indentation index of periorbital wrinkles on the 3-point intramuscular injection side compared with the 6-point intradermal injection side was observed at 8, 12, and 16&#xa0;weeks. The results from the FVAS and GAIS scores showed significantly longer median times to relapse of the periorbital wrinkle for the 3-point intramuscular injection compared with the 6-point intradermal injection. Pain and bruising were slightly greater with the 6-point intradermal technique.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study reaffirmed the efficacy of incobotulinumtoxinA for the treatment of crow's feet. The 3-point intramuscular injection technique yielded greater efficacy and longer duration of action than the 6-point intradermal injection technique.}, }
@article {pmid33058453, year = {2021}, author = {Lifshit, HB and Bustan, N and Shnitzer-Meirovich, S}, title = {Intelligence trajectories in adolescents and adults with down syndrome: Cognitively stimulating leisure activities mitigate health and ADL problems.}, journal = {Journal of applied research in intellectual disabilities : JARID}, volume = {34}, number = {2}, pages = {491-506}, doi = {10.1111/jar.12813}, pmid = {33058453}, issn = {1468-3148}, support = {//The Shalem Fund for the Development of Services for People with Intellectual Disabilities in the Local Councils in Israel/ ; }, mesh = {Activities of Daily Living ; Adolescent ; Adult ; *Down Syndrome ; Humans ; *Intellectual Disability ; Intelligence ; Leisure Activities ; Middle Aged ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {GOALS: This study examined: (a) crystallized/fluid intelligence trajectories of adolescents and adults with Down syndrome; and (b) the contribution of endogenous (health, activities of daily living-ADL) and exogenous (cognitively stimulating leisure activities) factors on adults' intelligence with age.<br><br>METHOD: Four cohorts (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;80) with Down syndrome participated: adolescents (ages 16-21) and adults (ages 30-45, 46-60 and 61+). All completed Vocabulary and Similarities (crystallized) and Block Design and Raven (fluid) intelligence tests (WAIS-III[HEB] , Wechsler, 2001).<br><br>RESULTS: The 30-45 cohort significantly outperformed the 16-21 cohort. Except for Vocabulary, which remained stable, onset of decline was at 40-50. Age-related declining health and ADL correlated with participants' lower fluid intelligence, but cognitive leisure activities mitigated this influence.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Intelligence development into adulthood supported the continuous trajectory and compensation age theory, rather than accelerated or stable trajectories. Not only endogenous factors but also exogenous factors determined intelligence levels in adults with Down syndrome, supporting cognitive activity theory.}, }
@article {pmid33055870, year = {2020}, author = {Rix, MG and Wilson, JD and Harvey, MS}, title = {The open-holed trapdoor spiders (Mygalomorphae: Anamidae: Namea) of Australia's D'Aguilar Range: revealing an unexpected subtropical hotspot of rainforest diversity.}, journal = {Zootaxa}, volume = {4861}, number = {1}, pages = {zootaxa.4861.1.5}, doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.4861.1.5}, pmid = {33055870}, issn = {1175-5334}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Phylogeny ; *Rainforest ; *Spiders ; }, abstract = {The D'Aguilar Range of subtropical south-eastern Queensland (Australia), harbours an upland rainforest biota characterised by high levels of endemic diversity. Following recent phylogenetic and biogeographic research into the open-holed trapdoor spiders of the genus Namea Raven, 1984 (family Anamidae), remarkable levels of sympatry for a single genus of mygalomorph spiders were recorded from the D'Aguilar Range. It is now known that eight different species in the genus can be found in the D'Aguilar uplands, with five apparently endemic to rainforest habitats. In this paper we present a phylogenetic and taxonomic synopsis of the remarkable anamid fauna of the D'Aguilar Range: a key to the eight species is provided, and four new species of Namea are described (N. gloriosa sp. nov., N. gowardae sp. nov., N. nebo sp. nov. and N. nigritarsus sp. nov.). In shining a spotlight on the mygalomorph spiders of this region, we highlight the D'Aguilar Range as a hotspot of subtropical rainforest diversity, and an area of considerable conservation value.}, }
@article {pmid33055625, year = {2020}, author = {James, HF}, title = {The Irvingtonian Avifauna of Cumberland Bone Cave, Maryland.}, journal = {Zootaxa}, volume = {4772}, number = {1}, pages = {zootaxa.4772.1.4}, doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.4772.1.4}, pmid = {33055625}, issn = {1175-5334}, mesh = {Animals ; Caves ; *Columbidae ; Maryland ; }, abstract = {The early and mid-Pleistocene avian communities of North America are best known from the Rocky Mountain region and peninsular Florida. In the Appalachian Mountain region, only a small number of avian bones from mid-latitude cave deposits have been attributed to this time period. Here, I enlarge this record by reporting on bird bones from Cumberland Bone Cave in western Maryland, a well-known locality for large and small Irvingtonian mammals and other vertebrates. The taxa identified encompass ground birds, waterfowl, a hawk, two eagles, a vulture, an owl, a jay, a flycatcher, a junco or sparrow, and a finch. No purely boreal elements are confirmed as part of the avian assemblage, and all of the extant species that are positively or tentatively identified in the assemblage still occur in the region today. An immature bone referred to the Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus (Bechstein)) represents an Irvingtonian breeding record for the species in Maryland. This record occurs at the northern limit of the current breeding range for the genus. Extinct species in the assemblage include the Passenger Pigeon (Ectopistes migratorius (Linnaeus)), a large screech owl (Megascops guildayi (Brodkorb Mourer-Chauviré 1984)), and the large goose, Branta dickeyi Miller 1924. It can be argued that none of these represent the extinction of a phyletic lineage during the Irvingtonian. Based on the broad habitat preferences of modern counterparts of the birds in the assemblage, we can expect that Irvingtonian habitats near the site included mixed forest with mast-producing hardwoods and both early and later successional stages represented. There must have been fluvial, wetland, or lacustrine habitat suitable for waterbirds nearby, and probably also open woodland or grassy savannah areas, suitable for vulture foraging, turkey nesting, and booming by Ruffed Grouse.}, }
@article {pmid33047024, year = {2020}, author = {Muñoz-Ramírez, CP and Barnes, DKA and Cárdenas, L and Meredith, MP and Morley, SA and Roman-Gonzalez, A and Sands, CJ and Scourse, J and Brante, A}, title = {Gene flow in the Antarctic bivalve Aequiyoldia eightsii (Jay, 1839) suggests a role for the Antarctic Peninsula Coastal Current in larval dispersal.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {7}, number = {9}, pages = {200603}, pmid = {33047024}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {The Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) dominates the open-ocean circulation of the Southern Ocean, and both isolates and connects the Southern Ocean biodiversity. However, the impact on biological processes of other Southern Ocean currents is less clear. Adjacent to the West Antarctic Peninsula (WAP), the ACC flows offshore in a northeastward direction, whereas the Antarctic Peninsula Coastal Current (APCC) follows a complex circulation pattern along the coast, with topographically influenced deflections depending on the area. Using genomic data, we estimated genetic structure and migration rates between populations of the benthic bivalve Aequiyoldia eightsii from the shallows of southern South America and the WAP to test the role of the ACC and the APCC in its dispersal. We found strong genetic structure across the ACC (between southern South America and Antarctica) and moderate structure between populations of the WAP. Migration rates along the WAP were consistent with the APCC being important for species dispersal. Along with supporting current knowledge about ocean circulation models at the WAP, migration from the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula to the Bellingshausen Sea highlights the complexities of Southern Ocean circulation. This study provides novel biological evidence of a role of the APCC as a driver of species dispersal and highlights the power of genomic data for aiding in the understanding of the influence of complex oceanographic processes in shaping the population structure of marine species.}, }
@article {pmid33043244, year = {2020}, author = {Eisma, YB and de Winter, J}, title = {How Do People Perform an Inspection Time Task? An Examination of Visual Illusions, Task Experience, and Blinking.}, journal = {Journal of cognition}, volume = {3}, number = {1}, pages = {34}, pmid = {33043244}, issn = {2514-4820}, abstract = {In the inspection time (IT) paradigm, participants view two lines of unequal length (called the Pi-figure) for a short exposure time, and then judge which of the two lines was longer. Early research has interpreted IT as a simple index of mental speed, which does not involve motor activity. However, more recent studies have associated IT with higher-level cognitive mechanisms, including focused attention, task experience, and the strategic use of visual illusions. The extent to which these factors affect IT is still a source of debate. We used an eye-tracker to capture participants' (N = 147) visual attention while performing IT trials. Results showed that blinking was time-dependent, with participants blinking less when the Pi-figure was visible as compared to before and after. Blinking during the presentation of the Pi-figure correlated negatively with response accuracy. Also, participants who reported seeing a brightness illusion had a higher response accuracy than those who did not. The first experiment was repeated with new participants (N = 159), enhanced task instructions, and the inclusion of practice trials. Results showed substantially improved response accuracy compared to the first experiment, and no significant difference in response accuracy between those who did and did not report illusions. IT response accuracy correlated modestly (r = 0.18) with performance on a short Raven's advanced progressive matrices task. In conclusion, performance at the IT task is affected by task familiarity and involves motor activity in the form of blinking. Visual illusions may be an epiphenomenon of understanding the IT task.}, }
@article {pmid33038187, year = {2021}, author = {Ye, P and Feng, XL and Yang, ZH and Li, GP and Sun, J and Wu, HX and Chen, SC}, title = {The Anatomy of the Temporal and Zygomatic Branches of the Facial Nerve: Application to Crow's Feet Wrinkles.}, journal = {The Journal of craniofacial surgery}, volume = {32}, number = {3}, pages = {878-882}, doi = {10.1097/SCS.0000000000007123}, pmid = {33038187}, issn = {1536-3732}, mesh = {Adult ; Cadaver ; Eyelids ; Face ; Facial Muscles ; *Facial Nerve/anatomy &amp; histology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Skin Aging ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Advances in the understanding of wrinkling crow's feet while improving the safety and efficacy of botulinum toxin type A injection has pointed to drug dispersion in the lateral orbital wrinkles as a cause of adverse events of botulinum toxin type A injection. The purpose of this study is to identify the distribution of temporal and zygomatic branches of facial nerve in the orbicularis oculi muscles.<br><br>METHODS: Anatomical dissection of cadavers was performed in 31 cadavers, 13 females and 18 males, with ages ranging from 20 to 60 years, which of all had been embalmed by 10% formalin solution. The facial nerve was identified within subcutaneous tissue close periorbital region and both traced proximal and distal. Its temporal branch, zygomatic branch, facial and muscular entrance were located and accurately measured relative to established surface landmarks.<br><br>RESULTS: Dissection of the facial nerve revealed 2 to 6 entrances of the temporal branch into the orbicularis oculi and 1 to 5 entrances of the zygomatic branch into the orbicularis oculi. Concerning the measurements of neural entering points, distance and angle from orbicularis oculi muscle to lateral ocular angle, a distribution map of its muscular entrance and their patterns of distribution were constructed. According to the dense area of the coordinate map, there were 3 points determined as the muscular entrance points to established surface landmarks.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: An anatomical dissection of cadavers was performed to identify the distribution of temporal and zygomatic branches of the facial nerve in the orbicularis oculi. According to the dense area of the coordinate map, the surface landmarks of 3 points were established as the muscular entrance of the facial nerve (MEF).}, }
@article {pmid33038010, year = {2021}, author = {Escobar, S and Valois, A and Nielsen, M and Closs, B and Kerob, D}, title = {Effectiveness of a formulation containing peptides and vitamin C in treating signs of facial ageing: three clinical studies.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {43}, number = {2}, pages = {131-135}, pmid = {33038010}, issn = {1468-2494}, mesh = {Adult ; Ascorbic Acid/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; *Drug Compounding ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Peptides/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Vitamin C and peptides are widely used in cosmetic products but there is a paucity of clinical studies showing that the formulations are effective in treating signs of facial ageing. These 3 clinical studies evaluated the effectiveness of an anti-ageing formula containing natural vitamin C (10%), biopeptides (rice and lupin), hyaluronic acid, and Vichy volcanic mineralising water, in amber glass ampoules with no preservatives (Peptide-C ampoules).<br><br>METHODS: Dansyl chloride fluorescence labelling compared cell turnover for Peptide-C ampoules vs untreated skin in 32 female subjects. Study 2, an open clinical study, evaluated the efficacy on wrinkles of Peptide-C ampoules by investigator clinical scoring based on Dynamical Atlas visual assessment (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;40) and subject self-assessment questionnaires (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;47). Study 3, an open clinical study, evaluated wrinkles by instrumental quantification with 3D fringe projection analysis (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;40) and subject questionnaires (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;51).<br><br>RESULTS: The mean cell turnover was faster for skin treated with Peptide-C ampoules compared to untreated skin (17.1&#xa0;days vs. 19.2&#xa0;days; P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.0001). In study 2, after 28&#xa0;days application of Peptide-C ampoules, clinical grading of crow's-feet wrinkles, forehead wrinkles and nasolabial folds decreased by 9%, 11% and 5%, respectively (all P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05 vs baseline). Of 47 subjects, 77%, 64% and 79% indicated their skin seemed smoothed out, fine lines were less visible, and skin complexion was more radiant, respectively. In study 3, the number of wrinkles decreased by 11.5% after 29&#xa0;days application of Peptide-C ampoules vs baseline (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05) and 65% of subjects responded the fine lines were less visible.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This formulation of a combination of anti-ageing ingredients in ampoules, allowing a minimalist formula, showed significant results on improving facial wrinkles and radiance.}, }
@article {pmid33030595, year = {2020}, author = {Fernando, WBPS and Perera, SPPM and Vithanarachchi, RM and Wijesekera, RD and Wijesinghe, MR}, title = {Heavy metal accumulation in two synanthropic avian species in Sri Lanka.}, journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment}, volume = {192}, number = {11}, pages = {688}, doi = {10.1007/s10661-020-08654-y}, pmid = {33030595}, issn = {1573-2959}, mesh = {Animals ; Environmental Monitoring ; *Environmental Pollutants/analysis ; Feathers/chemistry ; Humans ; *Metals, Heavy/analysis ; Sri Lanka ; }, abstract = {We assessed the levels of Pb, Cd, and Mn in contour feathers of the feral pigeon (Columba livia) and house crow (Corvus splendens) obtained from five urban/suburban locations across Sri Lanka, using the AAS following wet digestion. Our key objectives were to compare accumulation levels in the two avian species with different foraging habits and living in common locations, and to establish baseline information on the presence of these metals in multiple locations in Sri Lanka with varying levels of urbanization. Owing to reservations that have been expressed by previous workers regarding the use of feathers for assessing heavy metal pollution, we first tested the efficacy of contour feathers by using our data for comparing the coefficients of variation in metal levels within and between locations. This showed that in over 95% of the cases, variations within locations were lower than between locations, indicating that freshly shed contour feathers that were used in the present study were reliable indicators of the status of bioaccumulation of the heavy metals in the environment. In interspecific comparisons, other than in the two suburban locations, Pb was present at much higher levels in the house crow than in the feral pigeon, whereas accumulation patterns with respect to Cd and Mn were inconsistent, suggesting that granivores may not, in all situations, accumulate lower levels than scavengers in the same environment. Owing to such interspecific variations in the patterns of accumulation of different heavy metals, the selection of a single species for assessing levels of pollution from heavy metals may not be prudent. Pb and Cd levels in both species were strongly and positively associated with human population density. The levels of Pb and Cd were highest in Colombo (commercial capital). In Colombo and Kalutara, the recorded levels in the house crow exceeded the thresholds that have the potential to inflict adverse impacts on avian species.}, }
@article {pmid33025666, year = {2021}, author = {Flanagan, AM and Masuda, B and Grueber, CE and Sutton, JT}, title = {Moving from trends to benchmarks by using regression tree analysis to find inbreeding thresholds in a critically endangered bird.}, journal = {Conservation biology : the journal of the Society for Conservation Biology}, volume = {35}, number = {4}, pages = {1278-1287}, doi = {10.1111/cobi.13650}, pmid = {33025666}, issn = {1523-1739}, support = {1345247//National Science Foundation/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; *Benchmarking ; Birds/genetics ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; Endangered Species ; Humans ; *Inbreeding ; }, abstract = {Understanding how inbreeding affects endangered species in conservation breeding programs is essential for their recovery. The Hawaiian Crow ('Alalā) (Corvus hawaiiensis) is one of the world's most endangered birds. It went extinct in the wild in 2002, and, until recent release efforts starting in 2016, nearly all of the population remained under human care for conservation breeding. Using pedigree inbreeding coefficients (F), we evaluated the effects of inbreeding on Hawaiian Crow offspring survival and reproductive success. We used regression tree analysis to identify the level of inbreeding (i.e., inbreeding threshold) that explains a substantial decrease in 'Alalā offspring survival to recruitment. Similar to a previous study of inbreeding in 'Alalā, we found that inbreeding had a negative impact on offspring survival but that parental (vs. artificial) egg incubation improved offspring survival to recruitment. Furthermore, we found that inbreeding did not substantially affect offspring reproductive success, based on the assumption that offspring that survive to adulthood breed with distantly related mates. Our novel application of regression tree analysis showed that offspring with inbreeding levels exceeding F = 0.098 were 69% less likely to survive to recruitment than more outbred offspring, providing a specific threshold value for ongoing population management. Our results emphasize the importance of assessing inbreeding depression across all life history stages, confirm the importance of prioritizing parental over artificial egg incubation in avian conservation breeding programs, and demonstrate the utility of regression tree analysis as a tool for identifying inbreeding thresholds, if present, in any pedigree-managed population.}, }
@article {pmid33021773, year = {2020}, author = {Nguyen, TT}, title = {Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Procedures: Facial Injection Procedures.}, journal = {FP essentials}, volume = {497}, number = {}, pages = {11-17}, pmid = {33021773}, issn = {2159-3000}, mesh = {*Cosmetic Techniques ; Face ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid ; *Skin Aging ; *Surgery, Plastic ; United States ; }, abstract = {Nonsurgical cosmetic procedures, including injection procedures, are among the fastest growing medical procedures. In 2018, botulinum toxin and hyaluronic acid injections were the two most common nonsurgical cosmetic procedures performed in the United States. Botulinum toxin is a neuromodulator with seven serotypes, but only serotypes A and B are in clinical use. The facial areas in which botulinum toxin is used most commonly include the forehead, glabella, and lateral canthal lines (ie, crow's feet). Adverse effects are transient. Several types of injectable dermal fillers are available. Hyaluronic acid is the most commonly used filler and is hypoallergenic. Others include calcium hydroxylapatite, poly L-lactic acid, and polymethylmethacrylate. The characteristics of fillers, including their elasticity and viscosity, are used to determine which should be used for specific applications. Potential serious complications include vascular occlusion leading to tissue necrosis or blindness. Immediate recognition and management of complications are needed to prevent long-term sequelae. With appropriate training, physicians and other clinicians can perform these injections safely in the office setting.}, }
@article {pmid33017667, year = {2020}, author = {Themelin, M and Ribic, CA and Melillo-Sweeting, K and Dudzinski, KM}, title = {A new approach to the study of relationship quality in dolphins: Framework and preliminary results.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {181}, number = {}, pages = {104260}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2020.104260}, pmid = {33017667}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bottle-Nosed Dolphin ; Ecosystem ; Social Behavior ; Swimming ; }, abstract = {Proximity and synchronous behaviours from surface observations have been used to measure association patterns within and between dolphin dyads. To facilitate an investigation of relationship quality in dolphins, we applied a method used for primates and ravens that examined three main components to describe relationships: value, security, and compatibility. Using pilot data from long-term research of two study populations for this preliminary assessment, these three components were extracted from PCA of eight behavioural variables with more than 80 % variance accounted for in both study groups. Only pair swim position differed between groups. Although value, security, and compatibility are abstract terms, each is based on behaviours identified as important in dolphin social life, at least for these two populations. Examining relationship quality in dolphins with a method used to illustrate dyadic differences for primates and ravens allows for a quantitative, comparative assessment of sociality across disparate taxa. Although these species are diverse in their anatomies and in their social habitats (e.g., aquatic, terrestrial, aerial), they may well share the basic societal building blocks in the factors affecting how relationships are formed. We discuss how an examination of these behavioural variables facilitates understanding relationship quality in dolphins, as well as how dolphin relationships fit into the context of social animals' society.}, }
@article {pmid33005675, year = {2020}, author = {Carrera-Játiva, PD and Morgan, ER and Barrows, M and Jiménez-Uzcátegui, G and Tituaña, JRA}, title = {Free-ranging avifauna as a source of generalist parasites for captive birds in zoological settings: An overview of parasite records and potential for cross-transmission.}, journal = {Journal of advanced veterinary and animal research}, volume = {7}, number = {3}, pages = {482-500}, pmid = {33005675}, issn = {2311-7710}, abstract = {Captive birds in zoological settings often harbor parasites, but little information is available about the potential for free-ranging avifauna to act as a source of infection. This review summarizes the gastrointestinal parasites found in zoo birds globally and in seven common free-ranging avian species [mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), Eurasian blackbird (Turdus merula), common starling (Sturnus vulgaris), Eurasian jackdaw (Corvus monedula), house sparrow (Passer domesticus), European robin (Erithacus rubecula), and rock dove (Columba livia)] to identify the overlap and discuss the potential for cross-species transmission. Over 70 references were assessed, and papers spanned over 90 years from 1925 to 2019. A total of 60 studies from 1987 to 2019 met the eligibility criteria. All examined free-ranging avifauna harbored parasite species that were also reported in zoo birds, except for the European jackdaw. Parasites reported in captive and free-ranging birds include nematodes (Capillaria caudinflata, Dispharynx nasuta, Ornithostrongylus quadriradiatus, Strongyloides avium, Syngamus trachea, and Tetrameres fissispina), cestodes (Dicranotaenia coronula, Diorchis stefanskii, Fimbriaria fasciolaris, and Raillietina cesticillus, Sobolevicanthus gracilis), trematode (Echinostoma revolutum), and protozoa (Cryptosporidium baileyi). Although no study effectively proved cross-transmission either experimentally or by genetic analysis, these parasites demonstrate low host specificity and a high potential for parasite sharing. There is potential for parasite sharing whenever determinants such as host specificity, life cycle, and husbandry are favorable. More research should be carried out to describe parasites in both captive and free-ranging birds in zoological settings and the likelihood of cross-infection. Such information would contribute to evidence-based control measures, enhancing effective husbandry and preventive medicine protocols.}, }
@article {pmid33005135, year = {2020}, author = {Shpurov, IY and Vlasova, RM and Rumshiskaya, AD and Rozovskaya, RI and Mershina, EA and Sinitsyn, VE and Pechenkova, EV}, title = {Neural Correlates of Group Versus Individual Problem Solving Revealed by fMRI.}, journal = {Frontiers in human neuroscience}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {290}, pmid = {33005135}, issn = {1662-5161}, abstract = {Group problem solving is a prototypical complex collective intellectual activity. Psychological research provides compelling evidence that problem solving in groups is both qualitatively and quantitatively different from doing so alone. However, the question of whether individual and collective problem solving involve the same neural substrate has not yet been addressed, mainly due to methodological limitations. In the current study, functional magnetic resonance imaging was performed to compare brain activation when participants solved Raven-like matrix problems in a small group and individually. In the group condition, the participant in the scanner was able to discuss the problem with other team members using a special communication device. In the individual condition, the participant was required to think aloud while solving the problem in the silent presence of the other team members. Greater activation was found in several brain regions during group problem solving, including the medial prefrontal cortex; lateral parietal, cingulate, precuneus and retrosplenial cortices; frontal and temporal poles. These areas have been identified as potential components of the so-called "social brain" on the basis of research using offline judgments of material related to socializing. Therefore, this study demonstrated the actual involvement of these regions in real-time social interactions, such as group problem solving. However, further connectivity analysis revealed that the social brain components are co-activated, but do not increase their coupling during cooperation as would be suggested for a holistic network. We suggest that the social mode of the brain may be described instead as a re-configuration of connectivity between basic networks, and we found decreased connectivity between the language and salience networks in the group compared to the individual condition. A control experiment showed that the findings from the main experiment cannot be entirely accounted for by discourse comprehension. Thus, the study demonstrates affordances provided by the presented new technique for neuroimaging the "group mind," implementing the single-brain version of the second-person neuroscience approach.}, }
@article {pmid33003545, year = {2020}, author = {Lin, Y and Zhang, X and Huang, Q and Lv, L and Huang, A and Li, A and Wu, K and Huang, Y}, title = {The Prevalence of Dyslexia in Primary School Children and Their Chinese Literacy Assessment in Shantou, China.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {17}, number = {19}, pages = {}, pmid = {33003545}, issn = {1660-4601}, mesh = {Asian People/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Child ; China ; Dyslexia/*epidemiology ; Female ; Humans ; Language Tests ; *Literacy ; Male ; Prevalence ; *Reading ; Schools ; }, abstract = {The epidemiological studies of Chinese developmental dyslexia (DD) in China are still limited. In addition, literacy assessment has seldom been performed for children with dyslexia, due to lack of uniform assessment tools. This study was aimed at investigating the prevalence rate of children with dyslexia, and to evaluate their Chinese reading ability. A total of 2955 students aged 7-12 years were enrolled by randomized cluster sampling. The study was divided into three stages. In stage I, all participating students were asked to finish the Combined Raven Test (CRT) and Chinese Vocabulary Test and Assessment Scale. In stage II, the Chinese teachers and parents of the children with suspected dyslexia were interviewed by psychiatrists, and finished the Dyslexia Checklist for Chinese Children (DCCC). In stage III, these children were evaluated by child psychiatrists for the diagnosis with or without dyslexia, according to the fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), and their Chinese literacy was further evaluated by using the Chinese Reading Ability Test (CRAT). The prevalence rate of children with dyslexia was 5.4% in Shantou city, 8.4% in boys and 2.3% in girls, with a gender ratio of 3.7:1.0. Children with dyslexia scored lower in all the five subscales of the CRAT tests. including phonological awareness, morphological awareness, rapid automatized naming, orthographic awareness, and reading ability than the control group (all p < 0.001). This study suggested that the prevalence rate of Chinese dyslexia in Shantou city is roughly equivalent to that previously reported in China. Children with dyslexia have a relatively lower Chinese reading ability in all assessments.}, }
@article {pmid32999416, year = {2020}, author = {Massen, JJM and Haley, SM and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Azure-winged magpies' decisions to share food are contingent on the presence or absence of food for the recipient.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {16147}, pmid = {32999416}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Altruism ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Cues ; Feeding Behavior/*psychology ; Female ; Food ; *Gift Giving ; Male ; Motivation ; Passeriformes ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Helping others is a key feature of human behavior. However, recent studies render this feature not uniquely human, and describe discoveries of prosocial behavior in non-human primates, other social mammals, and most recently in some bird species. Nevertheless, the cognitive underpinnings of this prosociality; i.e., whether animals take others' need for help into account, often remain obscured. In this study, we take a first step in investigating prosociality in azure-winged magpies by presenting them with the opportunity to share highly desired food with their conspecifics i) in a situation in which these conspecifics had no such food, ii) in a situation in which they too had access to that highly desired food, and iii) in an open, base-line, situation where all had equal access to the same food and could move around freely. We find that azure-winged magpies regularly share high-value food items, preferably with, but not restricted to, members of the opposite sex. Most notably, we find that these birds, and specifically the females, seem to differentiate between whether others have food or do not have food, and subsequently cater to that lack. Begging calls by those without food seem to function as cues that elicit the food-sharing, but the response to that begging is condition-dependent. Moreover, analyses on a restricted dataset that excluded those events in which there was begging showed exactly the same patterns, raising the possibility that the azure-winged magpies might truly notice when others have access to fewer resources (even in the absence of vocal cues). This sharing behavior could indicate a high level of social awareness and prosociality that should be further investigated. Further studies are needed to establish the order of intentionality at play in this system, and whether azure-winged magpies might be able to attribute desire states to their conspecifics.}, }
@article {pmid32985335, year = {2021}, author = {Valdois, S and Reilhac, C and Ginestet, E and Line Bosse, M}, title = {Varieties of Cognitive Profiles in Poor Readers: Evidence for a VAS-Impaired Subtype.}, journal = {Journal of learning disabilities}, volume = {54}, number = {3}, pages = {221-233}, doi = {10.1177/0022219420961332}, pmid = {32985335}, issn = {1538-4780}, mesh = {Aptitude ; Child ; Cognition ; *Cognitive Dysfunction ; *Dyslexia ; Humans ; Reading ; }, abstract = {A wide share of secondary school children does not reach the expected competence level in reading. These children could benefit from more efficient intervention responses, providing a better understanding of their cognitive weaknesses/deficits. Our aim was to explore the cognitive heterogeneity of a population of poor readers identified from a large sample of 948 sixth-grade children. We first assessed the contribution of phoneme awareness (PA), rapid automatized naming (RAN), and visual attention span (VAS) to reading performance in a subset of 281 children including poor and average readers/spellers. We show that all three skills are unique and significant predictors of reading fluency. We then restricted the analysis to participants with normal Raven's score (IQ) and oral language skills to focus on 110 children with more specific reading difficulties. A unique VAS deficit was found in 18% of these poor readers while 20% and 15.5% showed a unique PA or RAN deficit. Children with multiple or no deficit were further identified. The overall findings provide evidence for a variety of cognitive profiles in poor readers. They suggest that, in addition to PA interventions, training programs targeting VAS might be useful for the nontrivial share of poor readers who exhibit a VAS deficit.}, }
@article {pmid32985206, year = {2020}, author = {Kumar, M and Murugkar, HV and Nagarajan, S and Tosh, C and Patil, S and Nagaraja, KH and Rajukumar, K and Senthilkumar, D and Dubey, SC}, title = {Experimental infection and pathology of two highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 viruses isolated from crow and chicken in house crows (Corvus splendens).}, journal = {Acta virologica}, volume = {64}, number = {3}, pages = {325-330}, doi = {10.4149/av_2020_306}, pmid = {32985206}, issn = {0001-723X}, mesh = {Animals ; Chickens ; Crows ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/*pathogenicity ; Influenza in Birds/pathology/*virology ; }, abstract = {We investigated the experimental infection of two highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 viruses isolated from crow (A/crow/Assam/142119/2008) and chicken (A/chicken/Sikkim/151466/2009) in house crows (Corvus splendens). Both viruses caused infection in crows, where four out of six and three out of six crows succumbed to H5N1 infection within 11 days post challenge by crow and chicken viruses, respectively. The major clinical signs in crows were wing paralysis, circling and torticollis. The virus shedding detected from swabs was not persistent in both crow nor chicken viruses. Both viruses were isolated more frequently from oral swabs than from cloacal swabs. Both virus strains were isolated from brain, lungs, heart, liver, pancreas, spleen, large intestines of crows that succumbed to H5N1 infection. The surviving birds seroconverted in response to H5N1 virus infection. Microscopically, both viruses caused coagulative necrosis in pancreas and kidneys. Brain showed gliosis and neuronal degeneration. This experimental study highlights that crows could be infected with H5N1 viruses from different hosts with minor differences in pathogenicity. Therefore, it is imperative to carry out surveillance of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus in synanthropic birds along with biosecurity measures to mitigate the H5N1 spread in poultry population. Keywords: chicken virus; crow virus; highly pathogenic avian influenza; house crows.}, }
@article {pmid32981911, year = {2021}, author = {Goguta, L and Lungeanu, D and Negru, R and Birdeanu, M and Jivanescu, A and Sinescu, C}, title = {Selective Laser Sintering versus Selective Laser Melting and Computer Aided Design - Computer Aided Manufacturing in Double Crowns Retention.}, journal = {Journal of prosthodontic research}, volume = {65}, number = {3}, pages = {371-378}, doi = {10.2186/jpr.JPOR_2019_556}, pmid = {32981911}, issn = {2212-4632}, mesh = {*Computer-Aided Design ; Crowns ; *Dental Prosthesis Design ; Lasers ; Materials Testing ; Zirconium ; }, abstract = {Purpose This in vitro study aimed at ascertaining the retention forces for telescopic crowns fabricated with Selective Laser Manufacturing (SLM) and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) additive technologies, and Computer Aided Design - Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAD-CAM) subtractive technology, by using suitable materials for each.Materials and Methods Full-factorial design was employed for experimental testing, considering the following three factors: (a) inner crown material ‒ technology (zirconia ‒ CAD-CAM; metal-alloy ‒ SLS; metal-alloy ‒ SLM); (b) tooth type (canine or molar); (c) wet vs. dry conditions (i.e. either with or without artificial saliva). The roughness of the inner crowns was analyzed through atomic force microscopy. Three-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied for statistical analysis, followed by Tukey's post-hoc comparisons between the crown types.Results The retention force mean values were between 3.8 N (dry, SLM) and 14.8 N (artificial saliva, SLS), with statistically significant (p<0.001) differences between the three types of inner crowns and interaction with the tooth type. No significant interaction was found between crown or tooth types and the wet vs. dry testing conditions. The zirconia crowns' retention force was significantly (p<0.001) higher compared to similar SLM crowns, with 95% CI (3.62; 5.55) N for the differences. Zirconia was significantly (p<0.001) less retentive compared to similar SLS crowns, with 95% CI (-5.99; -4.06) N for the differences. The roughness decrease and subsequent loss of retention force was the largest in zirconia.Conclusions The SLS inner crowns showed the best retention, followed by zirconia and SLM inner crows.}, }
@article {pmid32978628, year = {2021}, author = {Gonzalez, R and Rojas, M and Rosselli, M and Ardila, A}, title = {Acalculia in Aphasia.}, journal = {Archives of clinical neuropsychology : the official journal of the National Academy of Neuropsychologists}, volume = {36}, number = {4}, pages = {455-464}, doi = {10.1093/arclin/acaa072}, pmid = {32978628}, issn = {1873-5843}, mesh = {*Aphasia/diagnosis ; *Dyscalculia ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Language ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Patients with aphasia can present a type of acalculia referred to as aphasic acalculia.<br><br>AIMS: To investigate the correlation and to test regression models for one- and two-digit calculation skills using verbal and nonverbal predictors.<br><br>METHODS AND PROCEDURES: We selected an aphasia sample of 119 men and 81 women with a mean age of 57.37&#xa0;years (SD&#xa0;=&#xa0;15.56) and an average level of education of 13.52&#xa0;years (SD&#xa0;=&#xa0;4.08). Spanish versions of the Western Aphasia Battery and Boston Diagnostic Aphasia Examination, plus a Written Calculation test, were individually administered. The calculation section of the Western Aphasia Battery and the Written Calculation tests were used to pinpoint calculation difficulties.<br><br>OUTCOMES AND RESULTS: Calculation difficulties were more severe in Global and Mixed non-fluent aphasia; they were very similar in Broca, Conduction, and Amnesic Aphasia. All correlations between the two calculation subtests and the other subtests of the Western Aphasia Battery were statistically significant. Calculation subtests correlated negatively with age and positively with schooling. Sex and time post-onset did not show any correlation with the calculation scores. Education, Reading, Block Design, and Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices were significant predictors of Western Aphasia Battery Calculation. Writing was the only significant predictor of the Written Calculation scores.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Nonverbal abilities were predictors of calculation tests, whereas agraphia defects were predictors of the Written Calculation test. Therefore, calculation abilities can be regarded both as written language-dependent and verbal language-independent.}, }
@article {pmid32974871, year = {2021}, author = {Rivollier, G and Quinton, JC and Gonthier, C and Smeding, A}, title = {Looking with the (computer) mouse: How to unveil problem-solving strategies in matrix reasoning without eye-tracking.}, journal = {Behavior research methods}, volume = {53}, number = {3}, pages = {1081-1096}, pmid = {32974871}, issn = {1554-3528}, support = {ANR-15-IDEX-02 and ANR-11-LABX-0025-01//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; }, mesh = {Computers ; Eye Movements ; *Eye-Tracking Technology ; Humans ; Pilot Projects ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {Problem-solving strategies in visual reasoning tasks are often studied based on the analysis of eye movements, which yields high-quality data but is costly and difficult to implement on a large scale. We devised a new graphical user interface for matrix reasoning tasks where the analysis of computer mouse movements makes it possible to investigate item exploration and, in turn, problem-solving strategies. While relying on the same active perception principles underlying eye-tracking (ET) research, this approach has the additional advantages of being user-friendly and easy to implement in real-world testing conditions, and records only voluntary decisions. A pilot study confirmed that embedding items of Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM) in the interface did not significantly alter its psychometric properties. Experiment 1 indicated that mouse-based exploration indices, when used to assess two major problem-solving strategies in the APM, are related to final performance-as has been found in past ET research. Experiment 2 suggested that constraining some features of the interface favored the adoption of the more efficient solving strategy for some participants. Overall, the findings support the relevance of the present methodology for accessing and manipulating problem-solving strategies.}, }
@article {pmid32974390, year = {2020}, author = {Martínez-de la Puente, J and Soriguer, R and Senar, JC and Figuerola, J and Bueno-Mari, R and Montalvo, T}, title = {Mosquitoes in an Urban Zoo: Identification of Blood Meals, Flight Distances of Engorged Females, and Avian Malaria Infections.}, journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {460}, pmid = {32974390}, issn = {2297-1769}, abstract = {Zoological gardens are home to a large number of vertebrate species and as such are suitable sites for both mosquito breeding and maintenance. They are excellent places for entomological studies of mosquito phenology, diversity, and blood-feeding patterns, as well as for xenomonitoring. During 2016, we sampled mosquitoes in Barcelona Zoo and used molecular methods to determine their blood-feeding patterns and the prevalence and diversity of avian malaria parasites. We also estimated the flight distance of engorged mosquitoes in the area. Overall, 1,384 adult Culex pipiens s.l., Culiseta longiareolata, and Aedes albopictus were captured. Birds dominated the diet of Cx. pipiens s.l. (n = 87) and Cs. longiareolata (n = 6), while humans were the only blood-meal source of Ae. albopictus (n = 3). Mosquitoes had a mean flight distance of 95.67 m after feeding on blood (range 38.71-168.51 m). Blood parasites were detected in the abdomen of 13 engorged Cx. pipiens s.l., eight of which had fed on magpies. Four Plasmodium lineages and a single lineage of the malaria-like parasite Haemoproteus were identified. These results suggest that Cx. pipiens s.l. is involved in the local transmission of avian Plasmodium, which potentially affects the circulation of parasites between and within wildlife and enclosed animals. Vigilance regarding possible mosquito breeding sites in this zoo is thus recommended.}, }
@article {pmid32973028, year = {2020}, author = {Nieder, A and Wagener, L and Rinnert, P}, title = {A neural correlate of sensory consciousness in a corvid bird.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {369}, number = {6511}, pages = {1626-1629}, doi = {10.1126/science.abb1447}, pmid = {32973028}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Consciousness ; Crows/*physiology ; Neurons/physiology ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Telencephalon/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Subjective experiences that can be consciously accessed and reported are associated with the cerebral cortex. Whether sensory consciousness can also arise from differently organized brains that lack a layered cerebral cortex, such as the bird brain, remains unknown. We show that single-neuron responses in the pallial endbrain of crows performing a visual detection task correlate with the birds' perception about stimulus presence or absence and argue that this is an empirical marker of avian consciousness. Neuronal activity follows a temporal two-stage process in which the first activity component mainly reflects physical stimulus intensity, whereas the later component predicts the crows' perceptual reports. These results suggest that the neural foundations that allow sensory consciousness arose either before the emergence of mammals or independently in at least the avian lineage and do not necessarily require a cerebral cortex.}, }
@article {pmid32970843, year = {2021}, author = {Sutton, AO and Strickland, D and Freeman, NE and Norris, DR}, title = {Environmental conditions modulate compensatory effects of site dependence in a food-caching passerine.}, journal = {Ecology}, volume = {102}, number = {1}, pages = {e03203}, doi = {10.1002/ecy.3203}, pmid = {32970843}, issn = {1939-9170}, mesh = {Animals ; *Ecosystem ; Ontario ; Population Density ; Population Dynamics ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {Although density regulates the abundance of most wild animal populations by influencing vital rates, such as fecundity and survival, the mechanisms responsible for generating negative density dependence are unclear for many species. Site dependence occurs when there is preferential filling of high-quality territories, which results in higher per capita vital rates at low densities because a larger proportion of occupied territories are of high quality. Using 41 yr of territory occupancy and demographic data, we investigated whether site dependence was a mechanism acting to influence fecundity and, by extension, regulate a population of Canada Jays in Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada. As predicted by site dependence, the proportion of occupied territories that were of high quality was negatively correlated with population density and periods of vacancy were shorter for high-quality territories than for low-quality territories. We also found evidence that per capita fecundity was positively related to the proportion of occupied territories that were of high quality, but only when environmental conditions, which influence the entire population, were otherwise poor for breeding. Our results suggest that site dependence likely plays a role in regulating this population but that environmental conditions can modulate the strength of density dependence.}, }
@article {pmid32970296, year = {2020}, author = {Naggar, RFE and Rohaim, MA and Munir, M}, title = {Potential reverse spillover of infectious bursal disease virus at the interface of commercial poultry and wild birds.}, journal = {Virus genes}, volume = {56}, number = {6}, pages = {705-711}, pmid = {32970296}, issn = {1572-994X}, support = {332228521//British Council/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/*virology ; *Bird Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; Birds/*virology ; *Birnaviridae Infections/epidemiology/virology ; Egypt ; Infectious bursal disease virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; Poultry/virology ; Poultry Diseases/virology ; }, abstract = {Recently, multiple spillover events between domesticated poultry and wild birds have been reported for several avian viruses. This phenomenon highlights the importance of the livestock-wildlife interface in the possible emergence of novel viruses. The aim of the current study was to investigate the potential spillover and epidemiological links of infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) between wild birds and domestic poultry. To this end, twenty-eight cloacal swabs were collected from four species of free-living Egyptian wild birds (i.e. mallard duck, bean goose, white-fronted goose and black-billed magpie). Genetic and phylogenetic analysis of three positive isolates revealed that the IBDV/USC-1/2019 strain clustered with previously reported very virulent IBDV (vvIBDV) Egyptian isolates. Interestingly, two other wild bird-origin isolates (i.e. IBDV/USC-2/2019 and IBDV/USC-3/2019) grouped with a vaccine strain that is being used in commercial poultry. In conclusion, our results revealed the molecular detection of vaccine and vvIBDV-like strains in Egyptian wild birds and highlighted the potential role of wild birds in IBDV epidemiology in disease-endemic regions.}, }
@article {pmid32968948, year = {2021}, author = {Hunt, GR}, title = {New Caledonian crows' basic tool procurement is guided by heuristics, not matching or tracking probe site characteristics.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {24}, number = {1}, pages = {177-191}, pmid = {32968948}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {UOA1208//Marsden Fund/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Comprehension ; *Crows ; Heuristics ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Contrasting findings made it unclear what cognitive processes New Caledonian crows use to procure suitable tools to solve tool tasks. Most previous studies suggested that their tool procurement is achieved by either trial and error or a simple heuristic. The latter provides a fast and cognitively efficient method for stable, routinized behaviour based on past experience with little or no deliberate decision-making. However, early papers by Chappell and Kacelnik reported that two New Caledonian crows procured tools after closely assessing the tool characteristics required for the task, thus using deliberate decision-making, or a 'customized strategy'. Here, I tested eight New Caledonian crows to determine their default behaviour in basic tool procurement tasks as a check on whether or not they use customized strategies. I used two rigorous experiments closely based on Chappell and Kacelnik's experiments. The crows did not use a customized strategy in either experiment, but their behaviour was clearly consistent with tool procurement predominantly guided by a familiarity heuristic. I discuss potential methodological issues that may have led to different conclusions in Chappell and Kacelnik's studies. Heuristic-guided, routinized behaviour in tool procurement has potential implications for understanding how standardization occurs in the early evolution of complex tool manufacture, both in New Caledonian crows and early humans.}, }
@article {pmid32967900, year = {2020}, author = {Bakkour, S and Deng, X and Bacchetti, P and Grebe, E and Montalvo, L and Worlock, A and Stone, M and Deeks, SG and Richman, DD and Busch, MP}, title = {Replicate Aptima Assay for Quantifying Residual Plasma Viremia in Individuals on Antiretroviral Therapy.}, journal = {Journal of clinical microbiology}, volume = {58}, number = {12}, pages = {}, pmid = {32967900}, issn = {1098-660X}, support = {P30 AI027763/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; UM1 AI126619/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; UM1 AI126620/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active ; *HIV Infections/diagnosis/drug therapy ; *HIV-1/genetics ; Humans ; RNA, Viral ; Viral Load ; Viremia/diagnosis/drug therapy ; Virus Latency ; }, abstract = {Detection of residual plasma viremia in antiretroviral therapy (ART)-suppressed HIV-infected individuals is critical for characterizing the latent reservoir and evaluating the impact of cure interventions. Ultracentrifugation-based single-copy assays are sensitive but labor intensive. Fully automated replicate testing using a standard clinical viral load assay was evaluated as a high-throughput alternative for the quantification of low-level viremia. Four plasma samples from blood donors with acute HIV-1 infection and one viral culture supernatant were serially diluted into 25-ml samples to nominal viral loads ranging from 39 to <0.5 copies (cp)/ml. Each dilution was tested with 45 replicates (reps) using 0.5 ml/rep with the Aptima HIV-1 Quant assay. The nominal and estimated viral loads based on the single-hit Poisson model were compared, and a hybrid Poisson digital model for calibrated viral load estimation was derived. Testing performed using 45 reps on longitudinal plasma samples from 50 ART-suppressed individuals in the Reservoir Assay Validation and Evaluation Network (RAVEN) study cohort (range of 1 to 19 years of continuous ART suppression) showed a median viral load of 0.54 cp/ml (interquartile range [IQR], 0.22 to 1.46 cp/ml) and a 14% (95% confidence interval [CI], 9% to 19%) decline in viral load for each additional year in duration suppressed. Within the RAVEN cohort, the expected false-negative rate for detection at lower rep numbers using 9 and 18 reps was 26% and 14%, respectively. Residual plasma viremia levels positively correlated with cell-associated HIV RNA and DNA. The performance characteristics of the replicate Aptima assay support its use for quantifying residual plasma viremia to study the latent HIV reservoir and cure interventions.}, }
@article {pmid32961718, year = {2020}, author = {Manera, U and Peotta, L and Iazzolino, B and Canosa, A and Vasta, R and Palumbo, F and Torrieri, MC and Solero, L and Daviddi, M and Grassano, M and Moglia, C and Pagani, M and Chiò, A and Cavallo, M}, title = {The Characteristics of Cognitive Impairment in ALS Patients Depend on the Lateralization of Motor Damage.}, journal = {Brain sciences}, volume = {10}, number = {9}, pages = {}, pmid = {32961718}, issn = {2076-3425}, abstract = {(1) Background: Cognitive features of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) have never been specifically analyzed according to the lateralization of motor impairment. In the present study we investigated the cognitive performances of ALS patients to describe the relationship between motor and cognitive dysfunction, according to site and side of disease onset. (2) Methods: Six-hundred and nine ALS patients underwent a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation at diagnosis in Turin ALS Centre Tests included-mini-mental state examination (MMSE), frontal assessment battery (FAB), trail-making test A/B (TMT A-B), digit span forward and backward (digit span FW/digit span BW), letter fluency test (FAS), category fluency test (CAT), Rey auditory verbal learning test (RAVLT), Babcock story recall test (BSRT), Rey-Osterrieth complex figure test (ROCFT), Wisconsin card sorting test (WCST), Raven's coloured progressive matrices (CPM47). Cognitive performances of patients, grouped by side and site of onset, were statistically compared using z-scores, as appropriate. (3) Results: Bulbar patients and bilateral spinal onset patients (Sbil) were generally characterized by lower cognitive performances in most neuropsychological tests, when compared to patients with lateralized onset (right-side spinal onset, Sri and left-side spinal onset, Sle). Digit span backward and visual memory task (ROCFT) median z-scores were significantly higher, reflecting a better cognitive performance, in Sri patients when compared to bulbar/Sbil patients, while verbal memory tasks (RAVLT and BRST) resulted in significantly higher scores in Sle patients. Our results are in keeping with hemispheric functional lateralization of language and visuospatial abilities. (4) Conclusions: In ALS patients, as in other neurodegenerative diseases, we found a direct relationship between lateralized motor and cognitive features.}, }
@article {pmid32946624, year = {2020}, author = {Casabona, G and Frank, K and Moellhoff, N and Gavril, DL and Swift, A and Freytag, DL and Kaiser, A and Green, JB and Nikolis, A and Cotofana, S}, title = {Full-face effects of temporal volumizing and temporal lifting techniques.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {19}, number = {11}, pages = {2830-2837}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.13728}, pmid = {32946624}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Adult ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Lifting ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Retrospective Studies ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Most injection techniques utilizing hyaluronic acid-based soft tissue fillers have predictable outcomes at the location injected. However, the temporal region has been identified to have aesthetic effects beyond the temple.<br><br>AIMS: To identify and quantify the panfacial aesthetic effects of three different temporal injection techniques.<br><br>PATIENTS/METHODS: The medical records of nine female and five male Caucasian patients with a mean age of 50.9&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;11.9&#xa0;years were retrospectively reviewed for the effects of these techniques: supraperiosteal, interfascial, and subdermal. Panfacial effects were evaluated by the semiquantitative assessment of aesthetic scores for the temple volume, the temporal crest visibility, the lateral orbital rim visibility, the position of the eyebrows, the severity of lateral canthal lines, the midfacial volume, and the contour of the jawline.<br><br>RESULTS: The supraperiosteal injection technique had the greatest influence on improving the temporal volume (25.0%), the temporal crest (33.3%), and the lateral orbital rim visibility (31.0%) scales but had no effects in other facial regions. The interfascial injection technique revealed good effects on improving temporal hollowing (23.3%) but had an even greater effect on the crow's feet (26.8%) and on the position of the eyebrow (33.3%). The subdermal injection technique had its greatest effects in the lower face by improving the contour of the jawline (26.8%) followed by the improvement of the lower cheek fullness scale (14.3%).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Future injection algorithms could utilize all three injection techniques together as one multi-layer injection approach with a tailored proportion of each technique based on the aesthetic needs of the patient.}, }
@article {pmid32945185, year = {2020}, author = {DeLecce, T and Fink, B and Shackelford, T and Abed, MG}, title = {No Evidence for a Relationship between Intelligence and Ejaculate Quality.}, journal = {Evolutionary psychology : an international journal of evolutionary approaches to psychology and behavior}, volume = {18}, number = {3}, pages = {1474704920960450}, pmid = {32945185}, issn = {1474-7049}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Humans ; Male ; Young Adult ; *Intelligence/physiology ; Phenotype ; *Semen Analysis ; }, abstract = {Genetic quality may be expressed through many traits simultaneously, and this would suggest a phenotype-wide fitness factor. In humans, intelligence has been positively associated with several potential indicators of genetic quality, including ejaculate quality. We conducted a conceptual replication of one such study by investigating the relationship between intelligence (assessed by the Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices Test-Short Form) and ejaculate quality (indexed by sperm count, sperm concentration, and sperm motility) in a sample of 41 men (ages ranging 18 to 33 years; M = 23.33; SD = 3.60). By self-report, participants had not had a vasectomy, and had never sought infertility treatment. We controlled for several covariates known to affect ejaculate quality (e.g., abstinence duration before providing an ejaculate) and found no statistically significant relationship between intelligence and ejaculate quality; our findings, therefore, do not match those of Arden, Gottfredson, Miller et al. or those of previous studies. We discuss limitations of this study and the general research area and highlight the need for future research in this area, especially the need for larger data sets to address questions around phenotypic quality and ejaculate quality.}, }
@article {pmid32940363, year = {2021}, author = {Flament, F and Coubard, O and Cruz, R and Flores, F}, title = {Changes in the eye contour signs due to age among Mexican women: Comparison with women of other ethnic origins.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {43}, number = {1}, pages = {20-25}, doi = {10.1111/ics.12662}, pmid = {32940363}, issn = {1468-2494}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Age Factors ; Aged ; *Ethnicity ; Female ; *Hispanic or Latino ; Humans ; Mexico ; Middle Aged ; *Ocular Physiological Phenomena ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the changes in certain ocular signs because of age, among Mexican women and to compare these with those previously obtained on women of other ethnicities.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: Photographs were taken of the faces of 203 Mexican women of different ages, under standardized conditions. These photographs allowed us to focus and define nine ocular signs, which were then graded by 15 experts and dermatologists, using standardized scales provided by a reference Skin Aging Atlas. Hence, the same protocol, previously used on 3240 women of four other ethnic origins (Caucasian: 600; Chinese: 990; Japanese: 1010; Indian: 300; African: 340), allowed us to compare the results obtained on Mexican women.<br><br>RESULTS: The severity of crow's feet wrinkles for Mexican women shows a more intense progression with age than those of women from other ancestries. The lower eyelid wrinkles of Mexican women, that show weak or erratic changes with time, were however found to have higher and significant severity at a young age. Pigmentation disorders of their ocular area were found less pronounced as compared to those of Asian or Indian women. Eye bags were observed with similar slight changes in all five ancestries.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The present work confirms that the clinical signs of age for the female eye area develop differently depending on the ethnic origins of the volunteer.}, }
@article {pmid32934284, year = {2020}, author = {Sultana, N and Hossain, SMZ and Mohammed, ME and Irfan, MF and Haq, B and Faruque, MO and Razzak, SA and Hossain, MM}, title = {Experimental study and parameters optimization of microalgae based heavy metals removal process using a hybrid response surface methodology-crow search algorithm.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {15068}, pmid = {32934284}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; *Biomass ; Chlorella/*chemistry ; Metals, Heavy/*chemistry ; Microalgae/*chemistry ; *Models, Chemical ; Wastewater/*chemistry ; *Water Purification ; }, abstract = {This study investigates the use of microalgae as a biosorbent to eliminate heavy metals ions from wastewater. The Chlorella kessleri microalgae species was employed to biosorb heavy metals from synthetic wastewater specimens. FTIR, and SEM/XRD analyses were utilized to characterize the microalgal biomass (the adsorbent). The experiments were conducted with several process parameters, including initial solution pH, temperature, and microalgae biomass dose. In order to secure the best experimental conditions, the optimum parameters were estimated using an integrated response surface methodology (RSM), desirability function (DF), and crow search algorithm (CSA) modeling approach. A maximum lead(II) removal efficiency of 99.54% was identified by the RSM-DF platform with the following optimal set of parameters: pH of 6.34, temperature of 27.71 °C, and biomass dosage of 1.5 g L[-1]. The hybrid RSM-CSA approach provided a globally optimal solution that was similar to the results obtained by the RSM-DF approach. The consistency of the model-predicted optimum conditions was confirmed by conducting experiments under those conditions. It was found that the experimental removal efficiency (97.1%) under optimum conditions was very close (less than a 5% error) to the model-predicted value. The lead(II) biosorption process was better demonstrated by the pseudo-second order kinetic model. Finally, simultaneous removal of metals from wastewater samples containing a mixture of multiple heavy metals was investigated. The removal efficiency of each heavy metal was found to be in the following order: Pb(II) > Co(II) > Cu(II) > Cd(II) > Cr(II).}, }
@article {pmid32932771, year = {2020}, author = {Jaksic, D and Mandic, S and Maksimovic, N and Milosevic, Z and Roklicer, R and Vukovic, J and Pocek, S and Lakicevic, N and Bianco, A and Cassar, S and Drid, P}, title = {Effects of a Nine-Month Physical Activity Intervention on Morphological Characteristics and Motor and Cognitive Skills of Preschool Children.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {17}, number = {18}, pages = {}, pmid = {32932771}, issn = {1660-4601}, mesh = {Body Weight ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; *Dancing ; *Exercise ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Motor Skills ; }, abstract = {(1) Background: Regular physical activity (PA) plays an important role during early childhood physical and psychological development. This study investigates the effects of a 9-month PA intervention on physiological characteristics and motor and cognitive skills in preschool children. (2) Methods: Preschool children (n = 132; age 4 to 7 years) attending regular preschool programs were nonrandomly assigned to PA intervention (n = 66; 60 min sessions twice per week) or a control group (n = 66; no additional organized PA program) for 9 months. Exercise training for the intervention group included various sports games, outdoor activities, martial arts, yoga, and dance. Anthropometry, motor skills (7 tests), and cognitive skills (Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices and Cognitive Assessment System) were assessed before and after an intervention period in both groups. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA. (3) Results: Body weight significantly increased in both groups over time. Compared to the changes observed in the control group, the intervention group significantly increased in chest circumference (p = 0.022). In contrast, the control group demonstrated an increase in waist circumference (p = 0.001), while these measures in the intervention group remained stable. Participants in the intervention group improved running speed (p = 0.016) and standing broad jump (p = 0.000). The flexibility level was maintained in the intervention group, while a significant decrease was observed in the control group (p = 0.010). Children from the intervention group demonstrated progress in the bent-arm hang test (p = 0.001), unlike the control group subjects. Varied improvements in cognitive skills were observed for different variables in both intervention and control groups, with no robust evidence for PA-intervention-related improvements. (4) Conclusions: Preschool children's participation in a preschool PA intervention improves their motor skills.}, }
@article {pmid32929312, year = {2020}, author = {Gharekhani, J and Yakhchali, M and Berahmat, R}, title = {Neospora caninum infection in Iran (2004-2020): A review.}, journal = {Journal of parasitic diseases : official organ of the Indian Society for Parasitology}, volume = {44}, number = {4}, pages = {671-686}, pmid = {32929312}, issn = {0971-7196}, abstract = {Knowledge on neosporosis and associated risk factors in different species of animals are so important for designing the control programs and reduce the economic losses globally. This literature review targeted for evaluating the infection rate of Neospora caninum in animals in Iran. Until April 2020, all of published documents in the main English and Persian-language databases were searched. A total number of 110 documents (English = 85 and Persian = 25) were extracted. Most of reports were sero-epidemiological studies using ELISA in Iranian cattle population. The range of Neospora infection was 3.8-76.2% in cattle, 0-54.6% in dogs, 0.9-9.9% in sheep, 6.2% in goats, 19.2-55.9% in buffaloes, 20-42.2% in horses, 52% in donkeys, 3.2-27% in camels, 14% and 19% in cats, and 0-20.4% in rodents. This rate in birds was 17.3% in chicken, 9.8% and 30.4% in pigeons, 2.8% and 3.7% in sparrows, and 9.9% in hooded crows. This is a comprehensive literature review on Neospora infection in Iran at the first time. The infection of N. caninum is widespread in Iran especially in dogs and cattle population. This review can provide baseline information for future research. Study on other hosts especially on wild and exotic animals is recommended for exact estimate of neosporosis in Iran. Investigations into molecular diagnosis and genotyping of N. caninum strains are also needed; this will be helpful for developing vaccines and finding the connection among wild and domestic cycles of disease. Education on the risk factors associated with N. caninum infection for is suggested farmers and rural public.}, }
@article {pmid32928096, year = {2020}, author = {Dai, X and Li, X and Huang, Y and Liu, X}, title = {The speciation and adaptation of the polyploids: a case study of the Chinese Isoetes L. diploid-polyploid complex.}, journal = {BMC evolutionary biology}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {118}, pmid = {32928096}, issn = {1471-2148}, support = {30870168 &amp; 31170203//National Natural Science Foundation of China/International ; }, mesh = {*Adaptation, Biological ; China ; *Diploidy ; Ecosystem ; *Genetic Speciation ; Phylogeny ; *Polyploidy ; Tracheophyta/*classification ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The Chinese Isoetes L. are distributed in a stairway pattern: diploids in the high altitude and polyploids in the low altitude. The allopolyploid I. sinensis and its diploid parents I. yunguiensis and I. taiwanensis is an ideal system with which to investigate the relationships between polyploid speciation and the ecological niches preferences.<br><br>RESULTS: There were two major clades in the nuclear phylogenetic tree, all of the populations of polyploid were simultaneously located in both clades. The chloroplast phylogenetic tree included two clades with different populations of the polyploid clustered with the diploids separately: I. yunguiensis with partial populations of the I. sinensis and I. taiwanensis with the rest populations of the I. sinensis. The crow node of the I. sinensis allopolyploid system was 4.43&#x2009;Ma (95% HPD: 2.77-6.97&#x2009;Ma). The divergence time between I. sinensis and I. taiwanensis was estimated to 0.65&#x2009;Ma (95% HPD: 0.26-1.91&#x2009;Ma). The narrower niche breadth in I.sinensis than those of its diploid progenitors and less niche overlap in the pairwise comparisons between the polyploid and its progenitors.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our results elucidate that I. yunguinensis and I. taiwanensis contribute to the speciation of I. sinensis, the diploid parents are the female parents of different populations. The change of altitude might have played an important role in allopolyploid speciation and the pattern of distribution of I. sinensis. Additionally, niche novelty of the allopolyploid population of I. sinensis has been detected, in accordance with the hypothesis that niche shift between the polyploids and its diploid progenitors is important for the establishment and persistence of the polyploids.}, }
@article {pmid32918649, year = {2021}, author = {Troncone, A and Chianese, A and Di Leva, A and Grasso, M and Cascella, C}, title = {Validity of the Draw a Person: A Quantitative Scoring System (DAP:QSS) for Clinically Evaluating Intelligence.}, journal = {Child psychiatry and human development}, volume = {52}, number = {4}, pages = {728-738}, pmid = {32918649}, issn = {1573-3327}, support = {157264//Universit&#xe0; degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli/ ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {To assess the psychometric properties of the Draw a Person: A Quantitative Scoring System (DAP:QSS), in 2543 children (M = 11.43 ± 3.06 years), correlations between drawings scores and Raven's Matrices scores, age, and academic achievement were examined. Although older children (> 11 years) obtained higher drawing scores than younger ones (p < 0.001), age significantly correlated with DAP:QSS scores only in children younger than 11 years (r = 0.493, p < 0.001), indicating conflictive evidence for construct validity and a possible ceiling effect. No correlations emerged between DAP:QSS scores and grades (r = 0.056, p = 0.097). DAP:QSS scores were significantly associated with Raven's Matrices score, but low correlation coefficients (0.156-0.498), low sensitivity (0.12), and high false negative (87.9%) and positive (82%) rates suggest poor DAP:QSS validity as an intelligence measure. The researchers concluded that DAP:QSS failed to produce a psychometrically sound assessment of children's intellectual functioning.}, }
@article {pmid32907915, year = {2021}, author = {Kampouri, M and Margetaki, K and Koutra, K and Kyriklaki, A and Karakosta, P and Anousaki, D and Chalkiadaki, G and Vafeiadi, M and Kogevinas, M and Chatzi, L}, title = {Maternal mild thyroid dysfunction and offspring cognitive and motor development from infancy to childhood: the Rhea mother-child cohort study in Crete, Greece.}, journal = {Journal of epidemiology and community health}, volume = {75}, number = {1}, pages = {29-35}, pmid = {32907915}, issn = {1470-2738}, support = {P30 ES007048/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Greece/epidemiology ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Mother-Child Relations ; Pregnancy ; *Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/epidemiology ; Prospective Studies ; *Rheiformes ; Thyroid Gland ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Maternal thyroid hormones' supply is crucial for fetal neurodevelopment; however, the role of maternal mild thyroid dysfunction is not clear. We aimed to assess the association of maternal mild thyroid dysfunction with child neuropsychological development from infancy to early childhood.<br><br>METHODS: We included 757 mother-child pairs from the prospective 'Rhea' cohort on Crete, Greece. Maternal thyroid functioning was assessed by quantitative analysis of serum thyroid-stimulating hormone, free thyroxine, thyroid peroxidase antibodies and thyroglobulin antibodies at early gestation (mean=14&#xa0;weeks). Neuropsychological assessment was based on Bayley Scales of Infant Development (18&#xa0;months of age), McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities (4&#xa0;years of age), Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, Trail Making Test and Finger Tapping Test (6&#xa0;years of age).<br><br>RESULTS: In multivariate adjusted linear regression analyses, maternal hypothyroxinemia was associated with decreased verbal scores at 4&#xa0;years and reduced motor speed at 6&#xa0;years of age. Maternal thyroid autoimmunity was associated with decreased child perceptual and motor ability at 4&#xa0;years of age. Four trajectories of longitudinal non-verbal cognitive development were identified and children exposed to maternal thyroid autoimmunity had increased risk for belonging to an adverse trajectory ('low': adjusted relative risk ratio (RRR) = 2.7 95% CI: (1.4, 5.2), 'high-decreasing': adjusted RRR = 2.2 95% CI: (1.2, 4.0), 'low-increasing': adjusted RRR = 1.8 95% CI: (1.0, 3.2)).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Maternal hypothyroxinemia is associated with reduced offspring verbal and motor ability. Maternal thyroid autoimmunity is associated with decreased offspring perceptual performance and motor ability and increased risk for adverse non-verbal cognitive development from infancy to childhood.}, }
@article {pmid32906797, year = {2020}, author = {Blazkova, B and Pastorkova, A and Solansky, I and Veleminsky, M and Veleminsky, M and Urbancova, K and Vondraskova, V and Hajslova, J and Pulkrabova, J and Sram, RJ}, title = {Effect of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Exposure on Cognitive Development in 5 Years Old Children.}, journal = {Brain sciences}, volume = {10}, number = {9}, pages = {}, pmid = {32906797}, issn = {2076-3425}, abstract = {Objectives: To analyze the impact of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in ambient air at the time of delivery and five years of age on cognitive development in five year old children. Materials and Methods: Two cohorts of children born in the years 2013 and 2014 from Karvina (Northern Moravia, n = 70) and Ceske Budejovice (Southern Bohemia, n = 99) were studied at the age of five years for their cognitive development related to the exposure to PAHs, determined in the ambient air as the concentration of benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) and OH-PAH (hydroxy-PAH) metabolites in urine of the newborns at the time of delivery. As psychological tests, the Bender Visual Motor Gestalt Test (BG test) and the Raven Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM test) were used. Results: Concentrations of B[a]P in the third trimester of mother's pregnancies were 6.1 ± 4.53 ng/m[3] in Karvina, and 1.19 ± 1.28 ng/m[3] (p < 0.001) in Ceske Budejovice. Neither the outcome of the RCPM test nor the BG test differed between children in Karvina vs. Ceske Budejovice, or boys vs. girls. Cognitive development in five year old children was affected by the higher exposure to PM2.5 during the third trimester in girls in Karvina. Conclusions: We did not observe any significant effect of prenatal PAH exposure on psychological cognitive tests in five year old children.}, }
@article {pmid32903767, year = {2020}, author = {Dolean, D and Cãlugãr, A}, title = {How Reliably Can We Measure a Child's True IQ? Socio-Economic Status Can Explain Most of the Inter-Ethnic Differences in General Non-verbal Abilities.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {2000}, pmid = {32903767}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Roma children have been discriminated against for many years as they are denied access to high-quality education based on their scores on general non-verbal IQ tests. Rushton et al. (2007) showed that Roma perform more poorly than non-Roma on one such test (i.e., Raven Progressive Matrices), but suggest that this underperformance could be explained by Roma's low socio-economic status. In this paper, we tested the non-verbal abilities of Roma children and expanded on the research of Rushton et al. (2007) by investigating empirically the potential mediating effects of socio-economic status on children's performance on Raven Progressive Matrices. Results showed that the performance of Roma children was, on average, significantly lower than the performance of their non-Roma peers; however, the effect of ethnicity was partially mediated by the parents' education and living conditions (while the parents' income had no significant effect). As hypothesized by Rushton et al. (2007) some socio-economic factors can explain important variability in the performance of Roma children on general non-verbal tests, and their poor performance on such tests may lead to an underestimation of the true population mean.}, }
@article {pmid32893046, year = {2020}, author = {Hswen, Y and Qin, Q and Williams, DR and Viswanath, K and Brownstein, JS and Subramanian, SV}, title = {The relationship between Jim Crow laws and social capital from 1997-2014: A 3-level multilevel hierarchical analysis across time, county and state.}, journal = {Social science &amp; medicine (1982)}, volume = {262}, number = {}, pages = {113142}, doi = {10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.113142}, pmid = {32893046}, issn = {1873-5347}, support = {T32 MD015070/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Black or African American ; Humans ; Income ; *Racism ; *Social Capital ; United States ; White People ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Jim Crow laws in the United States promoted racial prejudice, which may have reduced social capital. Our study tests the relationship between Jim Crow laws and social capital.<br><br>METHODS: We conducted 3-level multilevel hierarchical modeling to study differences in the stock of social capital for 1997, 2005, 2009 in Jim Crow states compared to states without Jim Crow laws. We examined the moderation effects of county level median income, percent Black and percent with high school education and Jim Crow laws on social capital.<br><br>RESULTS: Jim Crow laws significantly reduced stock of social capital across 1997, 2005, 2009. The model was robust to the inclusion of random county, states, time and fixed county and state level covariates for median income, percent Black and percent with high school education. The largest percent of between state variations explained for fixed variables was from the addition of Jim Crow laws with 2.86%. These results demonstrate that although Jim Crow laws were abolished in 1965, the effects of racial segregation appear to persist through lower social connectiveness, community and trust. A positive moderation effect was seen for median income and percent Black with Jim Crow laws on social capital.<br><br>DISCUSSION: Our study supports a negative association between Jim Crow laws and reduction in the stock of social capital. This may be attributed to the fracturing of trust, reciprocity and collective action produced by legal racial segregation. Findings from this study offer insight on the potential impacts of historical policies on the social structure of a community. Future research is necessary to further identify the mechanistic pathways and develop interventions to improve social capital.}, }
@article {pmid32887370, year = {2020}, author = {Stalder, S and Marti, H and Borel, N and Sachse, K and Albini, S and Vogler, BR}, title = {Occurrence of Chlamydiaceae in Raptors and Crows in Switzerland.}, journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {9}, number = {9}, pages = {}, pmid = {32887370}, issn = {2076-0817}, abstract = {Bacteria of the family Chlamydiaceae are globally disseminated and able to infect many bird species. So far, 11 species of Chlamydia have been detected in wild birds, and several studies found chlamydial strains classified as genetically intermediate between Chlamydia (C.) psittaci and C.abortus. Recently, a group of these intermediate strains was shown to form a separate species, i.e., C.buteonis. In the present study, 1128 samples from 341 raptors of 16 bird species and 253 corvids representing six species were examined using a stepwise diagnostic approach. Chlamydiaceae DNA was detected in 23.7% of the corvids and 5.9% of the raptors. In corvids, the most frequently detected Chlamydia species was C.psittaci of outer membrane protein A (ompA) genotype 1V, which is known to have a host preference for corvids. The most frequently detected ompA genotype in raptors was M56. Furthermore, one of the raptors harbored C.psittaci 1V, and two others carried genotype A. C.buteonis was not detected in the bird population investigated, so it remains unknown whether this species occurs in Switzerland. The infection rate of Chlamydiaceae in corvids was high compared to rates reported in other wild bird species, but neither Chlamydiaceae-positive corvids nor raptors showed overt signs of disease. Since the Chlamydiaceae of both, raptors and crows were identified as C.psittaci and all C.psittaci genotypes are considered to be zoonotic, it can be suggested that raptors and crows pose a potential hazard to the health of their handlers.}, }
@article {pmid32884644, year = {2020}, author = {Linnell, MA and Lesmeister, DB}, title = {Predator-prey interactions in the canopy.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {10}, number = {16}, pages = {8610-8622}, pmid = {32884644}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Small mammal abundances are frequently limited by resource availability, but predators can exert strong lethal (mortality) and nonlethal (e.g., nest abandonment) limitations. Artificially increasing resource availability for uncommon small mammals provides a unique opportunity to examine predator-prey interactions. We used remote cameras to monitor 168 nest platforms placed in the live tree canopy (n = 23 young forest stands), primarily for arboreal red tree voles (tree voles; Arborimus longicaudus), over 3 years (n = 15,510 monitoring-weeks). Tree voles frequently built nests and were detected 37% of monitoring-weeks, whereas flying squirrels (Glaucomys oregonensis) built nests infrequently but were detected 45% of monitoring-weeks. Most nest predators were detected infrequently (<1% of monitoring-weeks) and were positively correlated with tree vole presence. Weasels (Mustela spp.) were highly effective predators of tree voles (n = 8 mortalities; 10% of detections) compared to owls (n = 1), flying squirrels (n = 2), and Steller's jays (n = 1). Tree vole activity decreased from 84.1 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 56.2, 111.9) detections/week 1-week prior to a weasel detection to 4.7 detections/week (95% CI: 1.7, 7.8) 1-week postdetection and remained low for at least 12 weeks. Interpretations of predator-prey interactions were highly sensitive to how we binned continuously collected data and model results from our finest bin width were biologically counter-intuitive. Average annual survival of female tree voles was consistent with a previous study (0.14; 95% CI: -0.04 [0.01], 0.32) and high compared to many terrestrial voles. The relative infrequency of weasel detections and inefficiency of other predators did not provide strong support for the hypothesis that predation per se limited populations. Rather, predation pressure, by reducing occupancy of already scarce nest sites through mortality and nest abandonment, may contribute to long-term local instability of tree vole populations in young forests. Additional monitoring would be needed to assess this hypothesis.}, }
@article {pmid32882458, year = {2020}, author = {Connelly, F and Johnsson, RD and Aulsebrook, AE and Mulder, RA and Hall, ML and Vyssotski, AL and Lesku, JA}, title = {Urban noise restricts, fragments, and lightens sleep in Australian magpies.}, journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)}, volume = {267}, number = {}, pages = {115484}, doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115484}, pmid = {32882458}, issn = {1873-6424}, mesh = {Australia ; Noise/adverse effects ; *Sleep ; *Sleep, REM ; Wakefulness ; }, abstract = {Urban areas are inherently noisy, and this noise can disrupt biological processes as diverse as communication, migration, and reproduction. We investigated how exposure to urban noise affects sleep, a process critical to optimal biological functioning, in Australian magpies (Cracticus tibicen). Eight magpies experimentally exposed to noise in captivity for 24-h spent more time awake, and less time in non-rapid eye movement (non-REM) and REM sleep at night than under quiet conditions. Sleep was also fragmented, with more frequent interruptions by wakefulness, shorter sleep episode durations, and less intense non-REM sleep. REM sleep was particularly sensitive to urban noise. Following exposure to noise, magpies recovered lost sleep by engaging in more, and more intense, non-REM sleep. In contrast, REM sleep showed no rebound. This might indicate a long-term cost to REM sleep loss mediated by noise, or contest hypotheses regarding the functional value of this state. Overall, urban noise has extensive, disruptive impacts on sleep composition, architecture, and intensity in magpies. Future work should consider whether noise-induced sleep restriction and fragmentation have long-term consequences.}, }
@article {pmid32867701, year = {2020}, author = {He, S and Duan, R and Liu, Z and Ye, X and Yuan, L and Li, T and Tan, C and Shao, J and Qin, S and Wang, R}, title = {Characteristics of cognitive impairment in adult asymptomatic moyamoya disease.}, journal = {BMC neurology}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {322}, pmid = {32867701}, issn = {1471-2377}, support = {Z151100004015077-DR//Beijing Municipal Science &amp; Technology Commission/ ; 2015-3-041-DR//Beijing municipal health system high-level health technical personnel training program/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Cognitive Dysfunction/*etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Moyamoya Disease/*complications ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Prospective Studies ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cognitive impairment in adult moyamoya disease (MMD) is thought to be the result of ischemic stroke; however, the presence and extent of cognitive decline in asymptomatic patients is unclear.<br><br>METHODS: After classification using T2-weighted fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a total of 19 MMD patients with a history of cerebral infarction, 21 asymptomatic MMD patients, and 20 healthy controls matched for age, sex, and years of education were prospectively included in this study. A detailed neuropsychological evaluation of two moyamoya subgroups and normal controls was conducted.<br><br>RESULTS: Asymptomatic patients showed varying degrees of decline in intelligence (Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.001), spatial imagination (mental rotation, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.014), working memory (verbal working memory-backward digit span, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.011), and computational ability (simple subtraction, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.014; complex subtraction, P&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001) compared with normal controls. MMD patients with cerebral infarction had more severe impairment in complex arithmetic (P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.027) and word short-term memory (P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.01) than those without symptoms.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In asymptomatic MMD patients, a variety of cognitive impairment precedes the onset of clinical symptoms such as cerebral infarction, which may be a long-term complication of conservative treatment.}, }
@article {pmid32863476, year = {2020}, author = {du Pont, A and Karbin, Z and Rhee, SH and Corley, RP and Hewitt, JK and Friedman, NP}, title = {Differential associations between rumination and intelligence subtypes.}, journal = {Intelligence}, volume = {78}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {32863476}, issn = {0160-2896}, support = {R01 AG046938/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH063207/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R56 MH063207/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; T32 MH016880/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; P60 DA011015/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Although prior theory suggests that rumination contributes to cognitive impairments associated with depression, recent work suggests that rumination is associated with higher levels of intelligence. The present study examined the relations between two ruminative subtypes (brooding and reflective pondering) and multiple measures and types of intelligence (verbal and performance) after controlling for rumination's overlapping variance with depression. Participants were 751 individuals from the Colorado Longitudinal Twin Study who completed the Ruminative Response Scale; the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale and a fully structured clinical interview as measures of depression; and verbal and performance intelligence tasks at age 16 and the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices at age 23. Reflective pondering was positively associated with all measures of intelligence, whereas brooding was not associated with intelligence. Our findings indicate that any negative associations between rumination and intelligence are attributable to shared variance with depression, and that examination of rumination as a multifaceted construct may provide new insights into the relations between rumination and cognition.}, }
@article {pmid32860889, year = {2020}, author = {Wei, H and Chang, L and Huang, Q and Zhou, R}, title = {Relation between spontaneous electroencephalographic theta/beta power ratio and test anxiety.}, journal = {Neuroscience letters}, volume = {737}, number = {}, pages = {135323}, doi = {10.1016/j.neulet.2020.135323}, pmid = {32860889}, issn = {1872-7972}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Beta Rhythm/*physiology ; Brain/*physiopathology ; Electroencephalography ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Test Anxiety/*physiopathology ; Theta Rhythm/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Test anxiety is associated with impaired attentional control, and spontaneous electroencephalography (EEG) theta/beta power ratio (TBR) may reflect the cortical-subcortical interactions involved in attentional control. The present study investigated how test anxiety influences spontaneous EEG TBR. Individuals undertook a 10-minute Raven's intelligence test. Spontaneous EEG data were recorded before and after the test and subsequently analyzed. TAS score showed a significant positive correlation with parietal EEG TBR before the test. Individuals with high test anxiety exhibited a significantly larger parietal EEG TBR than did individuals with low test anxiety, both before and after the test. The findings suggest that parietal spontaneous EEG TBR is related to test anxiety and can distinguish between individuals with high and low test anxiety.}, }
@article {pmid32849984, year = {2020}, author = {Akubuilo, UC and Iloh, KK and Onu, JU and Ayuk, AC and Ubesie, AC and Ikefuna, AN}, title = {Academic performance and intelligence quotient of primary school children in Enugu.}, journal = {The Pan African medical journal}, volume = {36}, number = {}, pages = {129}, pmid = {32849984}, issn = {1937-8688}, mesh = {Academic Performance/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Nigeria ; Schools ; Social Class ; Students/psychology/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: intellectual capacity measured as intelligence quotient (IQ) is one of the determinants of school performance of children. It influences academic achievement, future personal health, social well-being and therefore, is of public health significance. The objective of the study was to determine the intelligence quotient (IQ) and academic performance of primary school children in Enugu-East LGA.<br><br>METHODS: children who met the inclusion criteria were recruited from both public and private primary schools in the Local Government Area (LGA) using a proportionate multistage sampling technique. Academic performance was classified into high, average and low academic using past records of class assessment. Intelligence quotient was assessed using the Raven&#xb4;s Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) and was grouped into optimal and suboptimal. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain data such as-age, gender, socio-economic indices and family size of the study participants. Analysis was done with Statistical Package for Social Sciences (IBM-SPSS).<br><br>RESULTS: a total of 1,122 pupils aged 6 to 12 years were recruited. Optimal IQ and high academic performance were found in 54.0% and 58.8% of the study participants. Being from upper social class, in private school, and family size less than 4 were the significant determinants of high IQ and good academic performance (p<0.001).<br><br>CONCLUSION: low socio-economic status, large family size and public school attendance impact negatively on IQ and academic performance. Hence, measures to curb large family sizes (i.e.>4 children) and improve the socio-economic status of families are needed environmental measures to improve intelligence and academic performance.}, }
@article {pmid32849085, year = {2020}, author = {Nieder, A}, title = {Absolute Numerosity Discrimination as a Case Study in Comparative Vertebrate Intelligence.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {1843}, pmid = {32849085}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {The question of whether some non-human animal species are more intelligent than others is a reoccurring theme in comparative psychology. To convincingly address this question, exact comparability of behavioral methodology and data across species is required. The current article explores one of the rare cases in which three vertebrate species (humans, macaques, and crows) experienced identical experimental conditions during the investigation of a core cognitive capability - the abstract categorization of absolute numerical quantity. We found that not every vertebrate species studied in numerical cognition were able to flexibly discriminate absolute numerosity, which suggests qualitative differences in numerical intelligence are present between vertebrates. Additionally, systematic differences in numerosity judgment accuracy exist among those species that could master abstract and flexible judgments of absolute numerosity, thus arguing for quantitative differences between vertebrates. These results demonstrate that Macphail's Null Hypotheses - which suggests that all non-human vertebrates are qualitatively and quantitatively of equal intelligence - is untenable.}, }
@article {pmid32841183, year = {2020}, author = {Piasetska, L and Luchynskiy, M and Oshchypko, R and Rozhko, V and Luchynska, Y}, title = {THE STATE OF LOCAL IMMUNITY IN PERSONS WITH PERIODONTAL DISEASES ON A BACKGROUND OF DIFFERENT PHYCHOPHYSIOLOGICAL REACTIONS OF MALADAPTATION.}, journal = {Georgian medical news}, volume = {}, number = {303}, pages = {63-66}, pmid = {32841183}, issn = {1512-0112}, mesh = {Adult ; *Chronic Periodontitis ; *Gingivitis ; Humans ; *Periodontal Diseases ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The objective of the study was to determine the changes of local immunity indicators in persons with periodontal diseases and the influence of psychophysiological state on their activity. The study involved 130 patients 19-44-years old with periodontal diseases on a background of different psychophysiological reactions of maladaptation. Two study groups were formed: І group - 73 persons with gingivitis; ІІ group - 57 persons with chronic generalized periodontitis. For psychophysiological examination we used Raven's Progressive Matrices test. The average content of sIgA in persons of group I by 14.22% exceeded the corresponding data in persons of group II. The IgA concentration in group I was 0.191±0.004 g/l, which was 6.42% higher than in group II - 0.172±0.006 g/l, p>0.05. IgG content in group I exceeded by 15.54% the corresponding data in group II. Average data of lysozyme content in group I was 6.87% higher than in group II (427.0±5.20 μg/ml vs. 397.00±4.24 μg/ml, p<0, 01). The dynamics of immunoglobulins and lysozyme in the oral fluid of the study groups, depending on the psychophysiological state of the organism were determined and analyzed. Certain imbalance of local protection factors (lysozyme and sIgA) and the concentration of immunoglobulins A and G was characterized by a decrease in the values of the indices with deepening of psychophysiological reactions of maladaptation, and this tendency was more pronounced in patients with chronic generalized periodontitis.}, }
@article {pmid32834058, year = {2020}, author = {Jiguet, F}, title = {The Fox and the Crow. A need to update pest control strategies.}, journal = {Biological conservation}, volume = {248}, number = {}, pages = {108693}, pmid = {32834058}, issn = {0006-3207}, abstract = {The recent discovery that cats and mustelids can be infected by SARS-CoV-2 may raise the question of monitoring domestic, feral and wild populations of such animals, as an adjunct to the elimination of COVID-19 in humans. Emergency solutions might consider large scale control of these animals in the wild. However, looking at science recently published on native vertebrate pest control reveals first that usual controls do not succeed in reducing animal numbers and associated damages, second that controlling can be counter-productive in increasing the infectious risks for humans and livestock. The examples of red fox and corvids are detailed in a European context, illustrating the urgent need for an ethical evaluation of ecological and economic costs and benefits of pest control strategies. A complete scientific evaluation process must be implemented and up-dated regularly, to be organized in four major steps, once the aim of the control strategy has been defined: (1) evaluating damages/risks caused by the animals, to be balanced with the ecosystem services they may provide, also in terms of economic costs; (2) unravelling spatial and temporal population dynamics of target animals to identify, if any, optimal control scenarios - which could be done within an adaptive management framework; (3) estimating the economic costs of implementing those optimal control scenarios, to be compared to the economic costs of damages/diseases; (4) finally evaluating how the control strategy reached its aims. A modern fable of the Fox and the Crow should deliver a timely moral for an ethical, ecological and economical appraisal of pest control strategies in Europe.}, }
@article {pmid32830532, year = {2021}, author = {Berrington, JE and McGuire, W and Embleton, ND}, title = {ELFIN, the United Kingdom preterm lactoferrin trial: interpretation and future questions [1].}, journal = {Biochemistry and cell biology = Biochimie et biologie cellulaire}, volume = {99}, number = {1}, pages = {1-6}, doi = {10.1139/bcb-2020-0073}, pmid = {32830532}, issn = {1208-6002}, mesh = {Administration, Oral ; Double-Blind Method ; Enterocolitis, Necrotizing/*prevention &amp; control ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Infant, Premature ; Lactoferrin/administration &amp; dosage/*metabolism ; Sepsis/*prevention &amp; control ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {Results from previous studies have suggested that supplemental bovine lactoferrin (BLF) given to preterm infants (<32 weeks gestation) reduces late-onset sepsis (LOS) and necrotising enterocolitis (NEC). The Enteral Lactoferrin in Neonates (ELFIN) study, performed in the UK, aimed to further address this issue with a well powered double-blind placebo controlled trial of >2200 preterm infants. The results from ELFIN did not demonstrate a reduction in LOS or NEC, or several other clinically important measures. Of the 1093 infants, 316 (29%) in the intervention group developed late-onset sepsis versus 334 (31%) of 1089 in the control group, with an adjusted risk ratio of 0.95 (95% CI = 0.86-1.04; p = 0.233). Reasons for the differences in ELFIN trial results and other studies may include population differences, the routine use of antifungal prophylaxis in the UK, timing of administration of the lactoferrin in relation to disease onset, or specific properties of the lactoferrin used in the different trials. The UK National Institutes for Health Research funded "Mechanisms Affecting the Guts of Preterm Infants in Enteral feeding trials" (MAGPIE) study is further exploring the use of lactoferrin, and the results should be available soon.}, }
@article {pmid32830051, year = {2020}, author = {Birch, J and Schnell, AK and Clayton, NS}, title = {Dimensions of Animal Consciousness.}, journal = {Trends in cognitive sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {10}, pages = {789-801}, pmid = {32830051}, issn = {1879-307X}, support = {851145/ERC_/European Research Council/International ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Consciousness ; }, abstract = {How does consciousness vary across the animal kingdom? Are some animals 'more conscious' than others? This article presents a multidimensional framework for understanding interspecies variation in states of consciousness. The framework distinguishes five key dimensions of variation: perceptual richness, evaluative richness, integration at a time, integration across time, and self-consciousness. For each dimension, existing experiments that bear on it are reviewed and future experiments are suggested. By assessing a given species against each dimension, we can construct a consciousness profile for that species. On this framework, there is no single scale along which species can be ranked as more or less conscious. Rather, each species has its own distinctive consciousness profile.}, }
@article {pmid32829327, year = {2021}, author = {Jokel, A and Armstrong, E and Gabis, L and Segal, O}, title = {Associations and Dissociations among Phonological Processing Skills, Language Skills and Nonverbal Cognition in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.}, journal = {Folia phoniatrica et logopaedica : official organ of the International Association of Logopedics and Phoniatrics (IALP)}, volume = {73}, number = {3}, pages = {222-232}, doi = {10.1159/000505744}, pmid = {32829327}, issn = {1421-9972}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Autism Spectrum Disorder/complications ; Child ; Cognition ; Humans ; Language Development ; *Language Disorders ; Linguistics ; Phonetics ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {AIMS: The purpose of this study was to examine the nature of phonological processing in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as it pertains to their nonverbal cognitive and linguistic abilities.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty-one participants between the ages of 9 and 21 years were administered a nonverbal cognitive assessment (Raven test), a language measure that requires receptive and expressive knowledge of semantics, syntax and morphology, as well as the integration across these language domains (CELF-4), and a measure of phonological processing (CTOPP).<br><br>RESULTS: Results show that performance on nonword repetition (NWR) that reflects an aspect of phonological memory was significantly low, whereas performance on phoneme reversal, phoneme elision, blending words and memory for digits was within the normal range. Hierarchical regressions with age, nonverbal intelligence (Raven test) and receptive language (CELF) as predictors showed that for NWR and phoneme elision the receptive part of the CELF was the main significant -predictor, after controlling for age. For phoneme reversal and memory for digits, however, the Raven score was the significant predictor, suggesting that cognitive nonverbal ability is the main factor explaining variability in these tasks.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: A deficit in phonological memory characterizes individuals in the autistic population. This deficit may influence language acquisition in this population consistent with other populations of children with language impairments. Other tasks of phonological awareness, however, might be preserved especially when they do not involve memory for long phonological sequences and when the cognitive abilities are within the norm.}, }
@article {pmid32823949, year = {2020}, author = {Robitzsch, A}, title = {Regularized Latent Class Analysis for Polytomous Item Responses: An Application to SPM-LS Data.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {8}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {32823949}, issn = {2079-3200}, abstract = {The last series of Raven's standard progressive matrices (SPM-LS) test was studied with respect to its psychometric properties in a series of recent papers. In this paper, the SPM-LS dataset is analyzed with regularized latent class models (RLCMs). For dichotomous item response data, an alternative estimation approach based on fused regularization for RLCMs is proposed. For polytomous item responses, different alternative fused regularization penalties are presented. The usefulness of the proposed methods is demonstrated in a simulated data illustration and for the SPM-LS dataset. For the SPM-LS dataset, it turned out the regularized latent class model resulted in five partially ordered latent classes. In total, three out of five latent classes are ordered for all items. For the remaining two classes, violations for two and three items were found, respectively, which can be interpreted as a kind of latent differential item functioning.}, }
@article {pmid32812143, year = {2020}, author = {Feng, D and Laurel, F and Castille, D and McCormick, AKHG and Held, S}, title = {Reliability, construct validity, and measurement invariance of the PROMIS Physical Function 8b-Adult Short Form v2.0.}, journal = {Quality of life research : an international journal of quality of life aspects of treatment, care and rehabilitation}, volume = {29}, number = {12}, pages = {3397-3406}, pmid = {32812143}, issn = {1573-2649}, support = {U01MD010619/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; P20GM103474/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; U54GM104944/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; U01 MD010619/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; P20 GM103474/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; U54 GM104944/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Physical Functional Performance ; Psychometrics/*methods ; Quality of Life/*psychology ; Reproducibility of Results ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: The National Institutes of Health established the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) to assess health across various chronic illnesses. The standardized PROMIS measures have been used to assess symptoms in studies that included Native American participants, although the psychometric properties of these measures have not been assessed among a solely Native American population. This study aimed to assess the reliability, construct validity, and measurement invariance of a widely used PROMIS Physical Function survey among Native Americans residing on or near the Apsáalooke (Crow) Reservation who were living with chronic illnesses.<br><br>METHODS: Participants aged 24 to 82&#xa0;years and living with at least one chronic illness were recruited for a community-based participatory research project. Baseline data were used for the current study (N&#x2009;=&#x2009;210). The 8-item PROMIS Physical Function 8b-Adult Short Form v2.0 was used to assess the function of upper and lower extremities, central core regions, and the ability to complete daily activities on a 5-point Likert scale.<br><br>RESULTS: Results indicated that the above PROMIS survey had high internal consistency (Cronbach's &#x3b1;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.95) and split-half (r&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.92, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001) reliabilities. Confirmatory factor analyses supported construct validity among females of the above population and when the two sex groups were combined. Results also indicated that corresponding thresholds and factor loadings were invariant across male and female groups.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The above PROMIS measure had good psychometric properties in females and when the two sex groups were combined among Native American adults living on or near the Aps&#xe1;alooke reservation with chronic illnesses. Thresholds and factor loadings appeared to be invariant by sex. Future studies with a larger sample size among males and more studies on the psychometric properties of other PROMIS measures among Native American populations are needed.}, }
@article {pmid32807468, year = {2020}, author = {Watanabe, M and Takeda, K and Maeshima, S and Suzuki, T and Sonoda, S}, title = {Influence of hematoma volume and age on cognitive functions and ADL after putaminal hemorrhage.}, journal = {Journal of stroke and cerebrovascular diseases : the official journal of National Stroke Association}, volume = {29}, number = {9}, pages = {105063}, doi = {10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2020.105063}, pmid = {32807468}, issn = {1532-8511}, mesh = {*Activities of Daily Living ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; *Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology/physiopathology/psychology ; *Cognitive Aging ; Female ; Hemorrhage/complications/*diagnostic imaging/physiopathology/psychology ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Prognosis ; Putaminal Hemorrhage/complications/*diagnostic imaging/physiopathology/psychology ; Risk Factors ; *Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: After cerebral hemorrhage, cognitive functions and activities of daily living (ADL) are affected by various factors, including hematoma volume and patient age. In the present study, we investigated the effect of age and hematoma volume on cognitive functions and on ADL.<br><br>METHODS: The sample comprised 274 patients (183 men and 91 women; mean age 58.2 &#xb1; 12.5 years) with putaminal hemorrhage who were hospitalized in a convalescent rehabilitation ward. Hematoma volume was estimated from computed tomography imaging at stroke onset. Cognitive functions were evaluated using Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices test (RCPM) and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) at hospital admission, while ADL score was assessed at discharge using the Functional Independence Measure motor subscale (FIM-M). In the present study, we classified the patients into six groups according to whether they were non-elderly or elderly (cutoff age, 60 years) and whether their hematoma was small, medium, or large (cutoff volumes, 20 and 40 mL, respectively). Subsequently, the scores on the RCPM, MMSE, and FIM-M were compared among the groups.<br><br>RESULTS: In both age groups, patients with a larger hematoma volume had lower RCPM and MMSE scores. Patients <60 years old exhibited different trends in their RCPM and MMSE scores, such that the RCPM score showed a step-wise decrease according to hematoma volume, while a difference in the MMSE score was only observed at the 20&#xa0;mL boundary. Most of the younger patients (<60 years of age) attained high FIM-M scores at discharge, as long as their hematoma volume was either medium or small (<40&#xa0;mL). This age group had higher RCPM scores on admission, which may have contributed to their higher FIM-M scores on discharge.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In the present study, we demonstrated that advancing age increases the effect of hematoma volume on RCPM and MMSE scores and identified differences in the effects observed on these two scores. Thus, it may be important to use the RCPM alongside the MMSE for patient assessment.}, }
@article {pmid32803695, year = {2021}, author = {Fumagalli, A and Misuraca, C and Riva, S and Soraci, L and Fabbietti, P and Di Rosa, M and Corsonello, A and Lattanzio, F and Colombo, D}, title = {Does trail making test predict long-term prognosis in older patients with COPD?.}, journal = {Aging clinical and experimental research}, volume = {33}, number = {6}, pages = {1699-1703}, pmid = {32803695}, issn = {1720-8319}, mesh = {Aged ; *Attention ; Cognition ; Humans ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Prognosis ; *Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive ; Trail Making Test ; }, abstract = {Executive abilities are frequently impaired in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We aimed at investigating the association between trail making test (TMT) and survival. Our series consisted of 68 stable COPD outpatients followed-up every 6 months for 52.6 ± 27.6 months. Enrolled patients underwent a baseline comprehensive neuropsychological assessment, including mini-mental state exam, attentional matrices, digit span, Rey auditory verbal learning, Rey-Osterrieth complex figure, copy drawing, tokens test, verbal fluency, category fluency, frontal assessment battery, Raven's progressive matrices, TMT-A, -B and -B-A. The association between neuropsychological deficits and overall mortality was investigated by Cox regression. During follow-up period, 41 patients (60.3%) died. After adjusting for potential confounders, TMT-B was significantly associated with mortality (HR = 2.42, 95% CI = 1.10-5.31), along with age (HR = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.0-1.13), overall comorbidity (HR = 1.29, 95% CI = 1.02-1.62) and use of noninvasive ventilation (HR = 2.16, 95% CI = 1.05-4.45). Defective TMT-B may be associated with long-term mortality in patients with stable COPD.}, }
@article {pmid32794280, year = {2021}, author = {Gewaily, MS and Abumandour, MMA}, title = {Gross morphological, histological and scanning electron specifications of the oropharyngeal cavity of the hooded crow (Corvus cornix pallescens).}, journal = {Anatomia, histologia, embryologia}, volume = {50}, number = {1}, pages = {72-83}, doi = {10.1111/ahe.12602}, pmid = {32794280}, issn = {1439-0264}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning/*veterinary ; Oropharynx/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {The present study was carried out on the oropharyngeal cavity of the hooded crow to investigate the gross and microscopic structures via gross anatomy, light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The gross anatomy clarified the elongated triangular shape of the oropharyngeal cavity with a non-protruding tongue with a bifid apex. The lingual body contained median groove rostrally and separated caudally from the root by a transverse papillary crest. The laryngeal mound located posterior to the lingual root, contained midline laryngeal cleft and bounded caudally by a transverse row of pharyngeal papillae. The palate contained choanal cleft rostrally and infundibular slit caudally in addition to five palatine ridges. By light microscopy, the dorsal lingual epithelium was highly keratinised stratified squamous with a lingual nail in the most rostral part of the apex. Then, the thickness of the keratin layer decreased caudally, while in the ventral surface, the lining epithelium became non-keratinised. The entoglossum supported the lingual body and root, but not extended to the apex. The lining epithelium of the palate was also keratinised stratified squamous and became none-keratinised at the oral side of the choanal cleft. There were numerous lobules of polystomatic salivary glands in the lingual root and the palate. SEM revealed the arrangement of different types of papillae covering both the floor and the roof of the oropharynx besides numerous openings of salivary glands in the lingual root, laryngeal mound and the palate. These findings reflect the functional relationship of the oropharyngeal cavity of the hooded crow during feeding.}, }
@article {pmid32791819, year = {2020}, author = {Seo, E and Koo, SJ and Kim, YJ and Min, JE and Park, HY and Bang, M and Lee, E and An, SK}, title = {Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test: Relationship with Neurocognition and Facial Emotion Recognition in Non-Clinical Youths.}, journal = {Psychiatry investigation}, volume = {17}, number = {8}, pages = {835-839}, pmid = {32791819}, issn = {1738-3684}, support = {2017R1A2B3008214//National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; //Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning/ ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test (RMET) is a common measure of the Theory of Mind. Previous studies found a correlation between RMET performance and neurocognition, especially reasoning by analogy; however, the nature of this relationship remains unclear. Additionally, neurocognition was shown to play a significant role in facial emotion recognition. This study is planned to examine the nature of relationship between neurocognition and RMET performance, as well as the mediating role of facial emotion recognition.<br><br>METHODS: One hundred fifty non-clinical youths performed the RMET. Reasoning by analogy was tested by Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) and facial emotion recognition was assessed by the Korean Facial Expressions of Emotion (KOFEE) test. The percentile bootstrap method was used to calculate the parameters of the mediating effects of facial emotion recognition on the relationship between SPM and RMET scores.<br><br>RESULTS: SPM scores and KOFEE scores were both statistically significant predictors of RMET scores. KOFEE scores were found to partially mediate the impact of SPM scores on RMET scores.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These findings suggested that facial emotion recognition partially mediated the relationship between reasoning by analogy and social cognition. This study highlights the need for further research for individuals with serious mental illnesses.}, }
@article {pmid32788623, year = {2020}, author = {Latorre-Pérez, A and Villalba-Bermell, P and Pascual, J and Vilanova, C}, title = {Assembly methods for nanopore-based metagenomic sequencing: a comparative study.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {13588}, pmid = {32788623}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Genome, Bacterial/genetics ; Genomics/methods ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods ; Metagenome/*genetics ; Metagenomics/*methods ; Microbiota/genetics ; Nanopore Sequencing/*methods ; *Nanopores ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sequence Analysis, DNA/methods ; }, abstract = {Metagenomic sequencing has allowed for the recovery of previously unexplored microbial genomes. Whereas short-read sequencing platforms often result in highly fragmented metagenomes, nanopore-based sequencers could lead to more contiguous assemblies due to their potential to generate long reads. Nevertheless, there is a lack of updated and systematic studies evaluating the performance of different assembly tools on nanopore data. In this study, we have benchmarked the ability of different assemblers to reconstruct two different commercially-available mock communities that have been sequenced using Oxford Nanopore Technologies platforms. Among the tested tools, only metaFlye, Raven, and Canu performed well in all the datasets. These tools retrieved highly contiguous genomes (or even complete genomes) directly from the metagenomic data. Despite the intrinsic high error of nanopore sequencing, final assemblies reached high accuracy (~ 99.5 to 99.8% of consensus accuracy). Polishing strategies demonstrated to be necessary for reducing the number of indels, and this had an impact on the prediction of biosynthetic gene clusters. Correction with high quality short reads did not always result in higher quality draft assemblies. Overall, nanopore metagenomic sequencing data-adapted to MinION's current output-proved sufficient for assembling and characterizing low-complexity microbial communities.}, }
@article {pmid32787489, year = {2022}, author = {Thomson, ND and Kevorkian, S and Bozgunov, K and Psederska, E and Aboutanos, M and Vasilev, G and Vassileva, J}, title = {Fluid Intelligence Moderates the Link Between Psychopathy and Aggression Differently for Men and Women.}, journal = {Journal of interpersonal violence}, volume = {37}, number = {5-6}, pages = {NP3400-NP3426}, pmid = {32787489}, issn = {1552-6518}, support = {K01 CE003160/CE/NCIPC CDC HHS/United States ; K01CE003160/ACL/ACL HHS/United States ; R01 DA021421/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Aggression/psychology ; *Antisocial Personality Disorder/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Violence/psychology ; }, abstract = {Research on sex differences in the association of psychopathy with fluid intelligence is limited, and it remains unknown if fluid intelligence plays a meaningful role in explaining the psychopathy-aggression link for men and women. The present study aimed to test for sex differences in the relation between the four-facet model of psychopathy and intelligence, and to assess whether fluid intelligence moderates the link between psychopathy and aggression. In a community sample of men (n = 356) and women (n = 196), we assessed psychopathy using the Psychopathy Checklist: Screening Version (PCL:SV), fluid intelligence using the Raven's Progressive Matrices, and types of aggression using the Aggression Questionnaire (AQ). Hierarchical regressions showed that the psychopathy lifestyle facet was negatively associated with intelligence and there were no sex differences. Our analyses for types of aggression revealed sex differences and similarities. For both men and women, total AQ scores were predicted by higher antisocial facet scores. Lower intelligence moderated the link between higher antisocial facet scores and aggression in men, but not for women. Physical aggression in women was associated with higher interpersonal, affective, and antisocial facet scores, whereas for men, it was only associated with higher antisocial facet scores. Verbal and indirect aggression were associated with higher intelligence in both men and women. For men only, higher antisocial facet scores were associated with verbal and indirect aggression. Higher intelligence moderated the link between the lifestyle facet and indirect aggression for women, whereas for men, it moderated the link between the affective facet and indirect aggression. This study further highlights sex differences in mechanisms of psychopathy-related aggression, which need to be considered in the development of violence interventions and risk assessment.}, }
@article {pmid32783216, year = {2021}, author = {Eftekhari, MH and Aghaei, H and Kangari, H and Bahrami, M and Eftekhari, S and Tabatabaee, SM and Shahraki, K and Bahrami, M and Broumand, MG}, title = {Abobotulinum toxin A for periorbital facial rejuvenation: impact on ocular refractive parameters.}, journal = {Clinical &amp; experimental optometry}, volume = {104}, number = {1}, pages = {115-118}, doi = {10.1111/cxo.13117}, pmid = {32783216}, issn = {1444-0938}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Base Composition ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; *Facial Muscles ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S ; *Rejuvenation ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Botulinum toxin is commonly used for cosmetic facial rejuvenation and can result in pain at the injected site, bruising and ecchymosis, erythema and oedema, headache, diplopia, blurred vision, focal facial weakness. This study evaluates the impact of botulinum toxin on refractive error and binocular vision.<br><br>BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin (trade name: Dysport) is a neurotoxic protein which is made from a Gram-positive anaerobic bacterium known as Clostridium botulinum. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the impact of Dysport injection on refractive error, near point of accommodation and convergence, and palpebral fissure height.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty-eight subjects were treated for facial wrinkles, using Dysport. A 500-unit vial of Dysport was diluted with 2.5-ml preserved normal saline, and injected doses were 30-units for crow's feet, six units for lower eyelid wrinkles, 25 to 50-units for glabellar lines (five points), and 20 to 40 for forehead creases on four points. The refractive error, near point of accommodation and convergence and palpebral fissure heights were assessed before and two weeks after injection.<br><br>RESULTS: The participants comprised 23 women and five men at a mean age of 53.51&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;14.1-years. The means of the equivalent sphere before and after injection were&#x2009;-0.07&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;1.34 and&#x2009;-0.08&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;1.35 (p = 0.36). The means of near point of accommodation monocularly before and after injection were 29.75&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;6.16-cm and 26.75&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;6.00, respectively. The means of near point of convergence before and after injection were 16.03&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;5.27-cm and 15.55&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;6.14, respectively (p = 0.30). The means of palpebral fissure height before and after injection were 10.33&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;1.69-mm and 10.20&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;1.46-mm, respectively. The changes in equivalent spherical refractive error, binocular near point of accommodation and convergence were not statistically significant.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Dysport injection for the correction of upper face animation lines, if performed at the appropriate sites and the appropriate concentration, has no significant impact on refractive error, near point of accommodation and convergence, and palpebral fissure height.}, }
@article {pmid32779694, year = {2021}, author = {Kim, JS}, title = {Fine Wrinkle Treatment and Hydration on the Facial Dermis Using HydroToxin Mixture of MicroBotox and MicroHyaluronic Acid.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {41}, number = {6}, pages = {NP538-NP549}, pmid = {32779694}, issn = {1527-330X}, mesh = {*Cosmetic Techniques/adverse effects ; Dermis ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Skin ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a key contributor to skin moisture (hydration), and MicroBotox demonstrates improvements for fine wrinkles of the face.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The author sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intradermal injection of hydrotoxin (combined mixture of MicroHA and MicroBotox) for the treatment of skin roughness and dryness on facial dermis.<br><br>METHODS: Fifty women who had thin, dry skin with fine wrinkles throughout the whole face, especially in the crow's feet and forehead areas, were enrolled in the study. Two cc stabilized-HA filler and 1 cc (40 U) of botulinumtoxinA were mixed in the novel combined hydrotoxin mixture. Intended to hydrate the dermis and treat fine wrinkles of the face, the mixture was injected into the real dermal layer of the face. The volume of HA per site was 0.002 cc and toxin was 0.04 U. Skin roughness and stratum corneum hydration were measured at 1, 2, 3, and 6 months.<br><br>RESULTS: One month post-treatment, skin roughness was reduced to 50.19% in topographic computer analysis utilizing 10&#xd7; dermascope photos. Stratum corneum hydration on crow's feet improved to 81.34% at 1 month and 56.12% at 2 months from pre-treatment baseline (P < 0.0001). Global Aesthetic improvement scale of Skin hydration and fine wrinkle improved.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The combination injection method of MicroHA and MicroBotox is not associated with side effects and showed significant synergic effect in improvement of skin roughness and moisturizing. Neuramix-hydrotoxin injection method is an easy and reproducible procedure to make constant injection depth and amount.}, }
@article {pmid32774110, year = {2020}, author = {Cocca, W and Andreone, F and Belluardo, F and Rosa, GM and Randrianirina, JE and Glaw, F and Crottini, A}, title = {Resolving a taxonomic and nomenclatural puzzle in mantellid frogs: synonymization of Gephyromantis azzurrae with G. corvus, and description of Gephyromantis kintana sp. nov. from the Isalo Massif, western Madagascar.}, journal = {ZooKeys}, volume = {951}, number = {}, pages = {133-157}, pmid = {32774110}, issn = {1313-2989}, abstract = {The genus Gephyromantis belongs to the species-rich family Mantellidae and is currently divided in six subgenera. Among these is the subgenus Phylacomantis, which currently includes four described species: Gephyromantis pseudoasper, G. corvus, G. azzurrae, and G. atsingy. The latter three species are distributed in western Madagascar, and two of them (G. azzurrae and G. corvus) occur in the Isalo Massif. Based on the analysis of molecular data (a fragment of the 16S rRNA gene), morphological inspection of museum specimens, and photographic comparisons, G. azzurrae is synonymised with G. corvus and the second Phylacomantis lineage of Isalo is described as G. kintana sp. nov. This medium-sized frog species (adult snout-vent length 35-44 mm) is assigned to this subgenus according to genetic and morphological similarities to the other known species of Phylacomantis. Gephyromantis kintana sp. nov. is known only from the Isalo Massif, while new records for G. corvus extend its range to ca. 200 km off its currently known distribution. These two taxa seem to occur in syntopy in at least one locality in Isalo, and the easiest way to distinguish them is the inspection of the ventral colouration, dark in G. corvus and dirty white in G. kintana.}, }
@article {pmid32772986, year = {2020}, author = {Taylor, AH and Jelbert, S}, title = {The crow in the room: New Caledonian crows offer insight into the necessary and sufficient conditions for cumulative cultural evolution.}, journal = {The Behavioral and brain sciences}, volume = {43}, number = {}, pages = {e178}, doi = {10.1017/S0140525X20000102}, pmid = {32772986}, issn = {1469-1825}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; *Cultural Evolution ; Humans ; Technology ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian (NC) crow populations have developed complex tools that show suggestive evidence of cumulative change. These tool designs, therefore, appear to be the product of cumulative technological culture (CTC). We suggest that tool-using NC crows offer highly useful data for current debates over the necessary and sufficient conditions for the emergence of CTC.}, }
@article {pmid32772983, year = {2020}, author = {Rutz, C and Hunt, GR}, title = {New Caledonian crows afford invaluable comparative insights into human cumulative technological culture.}, journal = {The Behavioral and brain sciences}, volume = {43}, number = {}, pages = {e177}, doi = {10.1017/S0140525X20000187}, pmid = {32772983}, issn = {1469-1825}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Humans ; Technology ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The New Caledonian crow may be the only non-primate species exhibiting cumulative technological culture. Its foraging tools show clear signs of diversification and progressive refinement, and it seems likely that at least some tool-related information is passed across generations via social learning. Here, we explain how these remarkable birds can help us uncover the basic biological processes driving technological progress.}, }
@article {pmid32764453, year = {2020}, author = {Zhao, W and Li, H and Zhu, X and Ge, T}, title = {Effect of Birdsong Soundscape on Perceived Restorativeness in an Urban Park.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {17}, number = {16}, pages = {}, pmid = {32764453}, issn = {1660-4601}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; China ; Cities ; Female ; Humans ; Islands ; Male ; Mental Healing ; *Parks, Recreational ; Perception ; Sound ; *Stress, Psychological ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Natural soundscapes have beneficial effects on the perceived restorativeness of an environment. This study examines the effect of birdsong, a common natural soundscape, on perceived restorativeness in Harbin Sun Island Park in China. Eight sites were selected and a series of questionnaire surveys on perceived restorativeness soundscape scale (PRSS) of four birdsong types were conducted during summer and winter. Two-hundred and forty respondents participated in this survey. Analysis of the survey results shows that different types of birdsong have different perceived restorativeness effects in different seasons. Crow birdsong has the worst effect on the perceived restorativeness in both summer and winter. Moreover, sound comfort and preference are significantly associated with the perceived restorativeness. The perceived restorativeness soundscape is best when birdsong is at a height of 4 m rather than 0.5 m or 2 m. The demographic/social factors of age, education, and stress level are all correlated with perceived restorativeness. There are suggestions for urban park design, especially with constructed natural elements. Creating a suitable habitat for multiple species of birds will improve perceived restorativeness. Moreover, appropriate activities should be provided in city parks to ensure restorativeness environments, especially for subjects with high levels of education and stress.}, }
@article {pmid32757725, year = {2022}, author = {Rostami, M and Razeghi, M and Daneshmandi, H and Hassanzadeh, J and Choobineh, A}, title = {Cognitive and skill performance of individuals at sitting versus standing workstations: a quasi-experimental study.}, journal = {International journal of occupational safety and ergonomics : JOSE}, volume = {28}, number = {1}, pages = {544-554}, doi = {10.1080/10803548.2020.1806565}, pmid = {32757725}, issn = {2376-9130}, mesh = {Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Sitting Position ; *Standing Position ; Students ; Workplace ; }, abstract = {Objectives. This study aimed to assess cognitive and skill performance at sitting and standing workstations among students from Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. Methods. Forty students (20 females and 20 males) participated in this quasi-experimental study. Tests were performed among randomly selected participants over two consecutive days: day 1, the Beck depression inventory and Beck anxiety inventory were used to assess the severity of depression and anxiety in the study participants, respectively, and Raven's general intelligence test was used to measure intelligence quotient; day 2, five performance assessment tests (cognitive performance assessment tests 'n-back', 'Stroop' and 'advanced reaction time'; skill performance assessment tests 'two-arm coordination' and 'Purdue pegboard') were randomly selected and presented to individuals at each workstation (sitting and standing workstations). At the end of each sitting and standing position, the comfort of the workstation was measured using a visual analog scale. Results. No statistically significant difference was shown between sitting and standing positions in terms of 'n-back', 'Stroop', 'advanced reaction time', 'two-arm coordination' and 'Purdue pegboard'. Participants were more comfortable in sitting positions and more easily distracted in standing positions. Conclusions. Sitting and standing positions had no significant effects on participants' cognitive and skill performance.}, }
@article {pmid32748851, year = {2020}, author = {Guzzardi, MA and Granziera, F and Sanguinetti, E and Ditaranto, F and Muratori, F and Iozzo, P}, title = {Exclusive Breastfeeding Predicts Higher Hearing-Language Development in Girls of Preschool Age.}, journal = {Nutrients}, volume = {12}, number = {8}, pages = {}, pmid = {32748851}, issn = {2072-6643}, support = {Decree no. 946/2019//Ministero dell'Istruzione, dell'Universit&#xe0; e della Ricerca/ ; grant agreement no.278603//Seventh Framework Programme/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Anthropometry ; Body Mass Index ; *Breast Feeding ; *Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; *Hearing ; Humans ; Infant ; Intelligence Tests ; *Language Development ; Male ; Pregnancy in Obesity ; Pregnancy ; Schools ; Sex Characteristics ; }, abstract = {Cognitive disorders are increasing in prevalence. Nutritional or metabolic stressors during early life, and female sex, are predisposing conditions towards the development of cognitive diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. Though there is evidence that breastfeeding may play a beneficial role in children's neurocognitive development, the literature remains controversial. In this study we aimed at assessing the association between exclusive breastfeeding and children's cognitive development from six months to five years of age, addressing sex differences. In 80 mother-child pairs from the Pisa birth cohort (PISAC), we measured cognitive development in groups of children of 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, and 60 months by Griffiths Mental Development Scales, parents' intelligence quotient (IQ) by Raven's progressive matrices, and maternal and infants' anthropometric parameters. We found that exclusive breastfeeding was associated with higher hearing-language development in five years old girls, independent of maternal IQ, age and BMI (body mass index). Exclusive breastfeeding in the first three months of life seemed sufficient to establish this positive relationship. In conclusion, our data indicate that exclusive breastfeeding is a positive predictor of cognitive development in preschool-age girls, paving the way for the implementation of sex-specific cognitive disease risk detection and prevention strategies from early life. Further studies are warranted to explore causality and longer term effects.}, }
@article {pmid32744584, year = {2020}, author = {El Jaziz, A and Lotfi, S and Ahami, AOT}, title = {Interrelationship of physical exercise, perceptual discrimination and academic achievement variables in high school students.}, journal = {Annali di igiene : medicina preventiva e di comunita}, volume = {32}, number = {5}, pages = {528-540}, doi = {10.7416/ai.2020.2373}, pmid = {32744584}, issn = {1120-9135}, mesh = {*Academic Success ; Adolescent ; *Cardiorespiratory Fitness ; Correlation of Data ; *Exercise ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Students/*psychology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Many studies results suggest how can we improve the academic performance for our kids. The purposes of this study were to examine how physical activity could affect both academic achievement and fluid intelligence in adolescence.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: We measured the three variables (physical, cognitive, academic) and try to find the correlations between them.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 167 adolescents (mean age = 16.34 years SD = 1.2) from Morocco are participating in this study. The cardiorespiratory fitness was measured with the20 m endurance shuttle-run test. We also assessed the Resistance capacity with 500m sprint test. The academic achievement was assessed by school grades. The fluid intelligence was assessed by using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. We examined the correlation between all variables.<br><br>RESULTS: This study indicates that the academic achievement was positively associated with the Fluid Intelligence and also with the Resistance Capacity and not with Cardiorespiratory Fitness (VO2peak).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: We can conclude that the professionals and researchers in sports and education have to promote physical activity at the school age for a public health purpose.}, }
@article {pmid32743124, year = {2020}, author = {Wang, Y}, title = {Predict new cases of the coronavirus 19; in Michigan, U.S.A. or other countries using Crow-AMSAA method.}, journal = {Infectious Disease Modelling}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {459-477}, pmid = {32743124}, issn = {2468-0427}, abstract = {Statistical predictions are useful to predict events based on statistical models. The data is useful to determine outcomes based on inputs and calculations. The Crow-AMSAA method will be explored to predict new cases of Coronavirus 19 (COVID19). This method is currently used within engineering reliability design to predict failures and evaluate the reliability growth. The author intents to use this model to predict the COVID19 cases by using daily reported data from Michigan, New York City, U.S.A and other countries. The piece wise Crow-AMSAA (CA) model fits the data very well for the infected cases and deaths at different phases during the start of the COVID19 outbreak. The slope β of the Crow-AMSAA line indicates the speed of the transmission or death rate. The traditional epidemiological model is based on the exponential distribution, but the Crow-AMSAA is the Non Homogeneous Poisson Process (NHPP) which can be used to modeling the complex problem like COVID19, especially when the various mitigation strategies such as social distance, isolation and locking down were implemented by the government at different places.}, }
@article {pmid32742677, year = {2020}, author = {Frank, SC and Blaalid, R and Mayer, M and Zedrosser, A and Steyaert, SMJG}, title = {Fear the reaper: ungulate carcasses may generate an ephemeral landscape of fear for rodents.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {7}, number = {6}, pages = {191644}, pmid = {32742677}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {Animal carcasses provide an ephemeral pulse of nutrients for scavengers that use them. Carcass sites can increase species interactions and/or ephemeral, localized landscapes of fear for prey within the vicinity. Few studies have applied the landscape of fear to carcasses. Here, we use a mass die-off of reindeer caused by lightning in Norway to test whether rodents avoided larger scavengers (e.g. corvids and fox). We used the presence and abundance of faeces as a proxy for carcass use over the course of 2 years and found that rodents showed the strongest avoidance towards changes in raven abundance (β = -0.469, s.e. = 0.231, p-value = 0.0429), but not fox, presumably due to greater predation risk imposed by large droves of raven. Moreover, the emergence of rodent occurrence within the carcass area corresponded well with the disappearance of raven during the second year of the study. We suggest that carcasses have the potential to shape the landscape of fear for prey, but that the overall effects of carcasses on individual fitness and populations of species ultimately depend on the carcass regime, e.g. carcass size, count, and areal extent, frequency and the scavenger guild. We discuss conservation implications and how carcass provisioning and landscapes of fear could be potentially used to manage populations and ecosystems, but that there is a gap in understanding that must first be bridged.}, }
@article {pmid32728993, year = {2021}, author = {Wang, JV and Saedi, N and Zachary, CB}, title = {Hyperhidrosis and Aesthetics.}, journal = {Handbook of experimental pharmacology}, volume = {263}, number = {}, pages = {161-170}, pmid = {32728993}, issn = {0171-2004}, mesh = {*Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; *Depressive Disorder, Major ; Esthetics ; Humans ; *Hyperhidrosis/drug therapy ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {When one considers the avalanche of new indications and uses for botulinum toxins, it is truly surprising that this has all happened in such a short time. And the safety and dependability of these products are profound, when used appropriately. There is still much to be discovered about the potential of this agent when you contemplate the profound non-cosmetic benefits reported by clinicians and scientists from around the world. The mechanism of action has been studied in depth, and yet the benefits appreciated by people with chronic migraine or major depressive disorder, for instance, are unlikely to be explained by our current mechanistic understanding. Given that these toxins control acetylcholine at the motor end plates, and given that acetylcholine is central to practically every cell in the body, it will not be surprising to find that botulinum toxin researchers will be enjoying many decades of fruitful studies. The advent of the non-surgical aesthetic physician has helped push the clinical utilization of botulinum toxins well beyond its original adoption by oculoplastic surgeons in their patients with blepharospasm. We can expect that the next edition of this book to have a dozen or more new indications which will surprise us all.}, }
@article {pmid32728265, year = {2020}, author = {Salvi, C and Costantini, G and Pace, A and Palmiero, M}, title = {Validation of the Italian Remote Associate Test.}, journal = {The Journal of creative behavior}, volume = {54}, number = {1}, pages = {62-74}, pmid = {32728265}, issn = {0022-0175}, support = {T32 NS047987/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {The scientific approach to the study of creative problem solving has shifted from using classic insight problems (e.g., the Nine-dots problem), towards sets of problems that have more robust psychometric properties, such as the Remote Associate Test (RAT). Because it is homogeneous, compact, quickly solvable, and easy to score, the RAT has been used more frequently in recent creativity studies. We applied the Item Response Theory (IRT) to develop an Italian version of this task. The final 51-item test was reliable (α = .89) and provided information over a wide range of ability levels, as revealed by the IRT analysis. The RAT correlated with five measures of creative performance: The Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM), three classic insight problems, a set of anagrams purposefully developed, the fluency and flexibility scores of the Alternative Uses Task (AUT), and the Creative Achievements Questionnaire (CAQ). The new measure provided is meant to encourage the study of creativity and problem solving in the Italian language.}, }
@article {pmid32726365, year = {2020}, author = {Engel, N and Végvári, Z and Rice, R and Kubelka, V and Székely, T}, title = {Incubating parents serve as visual cues to predators in Kentish plover (Charadrius alexandrinus).}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {15}, number = {7}, pages = {e0236489}, pmid = {32726365}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Ecosystem ; Female ; Nesting Behavior/*physiology ; Ovum/physiology ; Population Density ; Predatory Behavior/physiology ; Reproduction/*physiology ; Resin Cements/chemistry ; }, abstract = {Ground-nesting birds face many challenges to reproduce successfully, with nest predation being the main cause of reproductive failure. Visual predators such as corvids and egg-eating raptors, are among the most common causes of nest failure; thus, parental strategies that reduce the risk of visual nest predation should be favored by selection. To date, most research has focused on egg crypsis without considering adult crypsis, although in natural circumstances the eggs are covered by an incubating parent most of the time. Here we use a ground-nesting shorebird, the Kentish plover (Charadrius alexandrinus) as model species to experimentally test whether decoy parents influence nest predation. Using artificial nests with a male decoy, a female decoy or no decoy, we found that the presence of a decoy increased nest predation (N = 107 nests, p < 0.001). However, no difference was found in predation rates between nests with a male versus female decoy (p > 0.05). Additionally, we found that nests in densely vegetated habitats experienced higher survival compared to nests placed in sparsely vegetated habitats. Nest camera images, predator tracks and marks left on eggs identified the brown-necked raven (Corvus ruficollis) as the main visual nest predator. Our study suggests that the presence of incubating parents may enhance nest detectability to visual predators. However, parents may reduce the predation risk by placing a nest in sites where they are covered by vegetation. Our findings highlight the importance of nest site selection not only regarding egg crypsis but also considering incubating adult camouflage.}, }
@article {pmid32721676, year = {2020}, author = {Bravo, C and Pays, O and Sarasa, M and Bretagnolle, V}, title = {Revisiting an old question: Which predators eat eggs of ground-nesting birds in farmland landscapes?.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {744}, number = {}, pages = {140895}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.140895}, pmid = {32721676}, issn = {1879-1026}, mesh = {Animals ; *Chickens ; Farms ; Female ; France ; *Nesting Behavior ; Predatory Behavior ; }, abstract = {Nest predation is a major cause of reproductive failure in birds, but predator identity often remains unknown. Additionally, although corvids are considered major nest predators in farmland landscapes, whether breeders or floaters are involved remains contentious. In this study, we aimed to identify nest predators using artificial nests, and test whether territorial or non-breeders carrion crow (Corvus corone) and Eurasian magpie (Pica pica) were most likely involved. We set up an experiment with artificial ground nests (n = 1429) in farmland landscapes of western France, and assessed how different combinations of egg size and egg material (small plasticine egg, large plasticine egg, quail and natural hen eggs) might influence predation rates and predator species involved. Nest predators were identified using remotely triggered cameras and marks left in plasticine eggs. Corvids were by far the predators most involved (almost 80% of all predation events), independent of egg type. Carrion crows alone were involved in 60% of cases. Probability of predation increased with egg size, and predation rate was higher for natural than for artificial eggs, suggesting that, in addition to egg size, predators might perceive plasticine and natural eggs differently. Predation rates of artificial nests by corvids were related significantly to corvid abundance, and far more to breeder than floater abundances, for both carrion crows and magpies. This study emphasizes the importance of identifying predators at species level, and considering their social status when assessing corvid abundance impact on prey population dynamics. Combining camera traps and plasticine eggs can achieve this objective. Given the high predation rate by carrion crows, a better understanding of landscape-mediated changes in predator diet seems mandatory to design mitigation schemes able to confront ecological challenges raised by generalist predators.}, }
@article {pmid32718867, year = {2020}, author = {Operto, FF and Pastorino, GMG and Mazza, R and Di Bonaventura, C and Marotta, R and Pastorino, N and Matricardi, S and Verrotti, A and Carotenuto, M and Roccella, M}, title = {Social cognition and executive functions in children and adolescents with focal epilepsy.}, journal = {European journal of paediatric neurology : EJPN : official journal of the European Paediatric Neurology Society}, volume = {28}, number = {}, pages = {167-175}, doi = {10.1016/j.ejpn.2020.06.019}, pmid = {32718867}, issn = {1532-2130}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Emotions ; Epilepsies, Partial/complications/*psychology ; *Executive Function ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Social Cognition ; *Theory of Mind ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Deficits in facial emotion recognition and Theory of Mind are frequent in patients with epilepsy. Although this evidence, studies on pediatric age are few and the relation between these abilities and other cognitive domain remains to be better elucidated. The purpose of our study is to evaluate facial emotion recognition and Theory of Mind in children and adolescents with focal epilepsy, and correlate them with intelligence and executive functions.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Our work is a cross-sectional observational study. Sixty-two children and adolescents aged between 7-16 years diagnosed by focal epilepsy and 32 sex/age-matched controls were recruited. All participants were administered a standardized battery tests to assess social cognition (NEPSY-II), executive functions (EpiTrack Junior) and cognitive non-verbal level (Raven Progressive Matrices).<br><br>RESULTS: Emotion recognition mean score was significantly lower in the epilepsy group than in the controls to Student's t-test (p<0.05). Epilepsy group showed an impairment in happiness, sadness, anger and fear recognition, compared to controls (p<0.05). Theory of Mind mean score was also significantly lower in epilepsy group than controls (p<0.05). Deficits in emotion recognition seemed to be related to low age at onset of epilepsy, long duration of disease, low executive functions and low non-verbal intelligence. Deficits in Theory of Mind seemed to be related to a high seizure frequency.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that children and adolescents with focal epilepsy had deficit in facial emotion recognition and Theory of Mind, compared to their peer. Both these difficulties seem to be related to some features of epilepsy itself. Our results also suggest that deficits in facial emotion recognition are potentially related to difficulties in executive functions and non-verbal intelligence. More studies are needed to confirm these hypotheses.}, }
@article {pmid32718771, year = {2021}, author = {Labbe, D and Abdulshakoor, A and Fernandez, J}, title = {Retrograde vs spot botulinium toxin facial injection.}, journal = {Annales de chirurgie plastique et esthetique}, volume = {66}, number = {3}, pages = {223-233}, doi = {10.1016/j.anplas.2020.06.006}, pmid = {32718771}, issn = {1768-319X}, mesh = {*Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; Face ; Facial Muscles ; Humans ; *Neuromuscular Agents ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In this study we have based our research on botulinium toxin injection via targeted neuromuscular end plate zones, specifically in muscles with diffuse distribution of the latter. The muscular surface anatomical variety was also taken into consideration with thorough pre-injection examination of every subject.<br><br>METHOD: With consideration of the facial muscles anatomical variation and neuromuscular bundle distribution, we have applied the method of retrograde botulinium toxin injection on a series of 10 patients on the right side of the face with the left side as a control side, it was injected in a regular perpendicular manner in order to conclude the efficacy of targeted motor end zone injection. Using an auto-injecting syringe, we have delivered 6 Allergan units per zone (frontalis, glabellar lines of corrugator supercilii and orbicularis oculi crow's feet).<br><br>RESULTS: On control day 8 we have noticed a more prominent effect mainly on the level of the orbicularis oculi muscle and the corrugator supercilii muscle on 9 out of 10 patients. Nine patients out of 10 needed the delivery of an additional 6 Allergan units per zone on the control side's glabellar lines and crow's feet rhytids. Where 1 out of 10 patients needed the reinjection of the control side on the glabellar lines zone.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The musculature of the face varies when it comes to neuromuscular plate distribution. Muscles with scattered distribution patterns show an optimal response to botulinum toxin injections when delivered in a retrograde manner. This has allowed us to achieve of optimal results while minimizing injection sites and hence pain, the use of lower dosage and hence treatment cost, as well as lowering the unwanted product dissemination to the neighboring mimic muscles.}, }
@article {pmid32718174, year = {2022}, author = {Miller, EJ and Krumhuber, EG and Dawel, A}, title = {Observers perceive the Duchenne marker as signaling only intensity for sad expressions, not genuine emotion.}, journal = {Emotion (Washington, D.C.)}, volume = {22}, number = {5}, pages = {907-919}, doi = {10.1037/emo0000772}, pmid = {32718174}, issn = {1931-1516}, mesh = {*Emotions ; *Facial Expression ; Happiness ; Humans ; Sadness ; Smiling/psychology ; }, abstract = {The Duchenne marker-crow's feet wrinkles at the corner of the eyes-has a reputation for signaling genuine positive emotion in smiles. Here, we test whether this facial action might be better conceptualized as a marker of emotional intensity, rather than genuineness per se, and examine its perceptual outcomes beyond smiling, in sad expressions. For smiles, we found ratings of emotional intensity (how happy a face is) were unable to fully account for the effect of Duchenne status (present vs. absent) on ratings of emotion genuineness. The Duchenne marker made a unique direct contribution to the perceived genuineness of smiles, supporting its reputation for signaling genuine emotion in smiling. In contrast, across 4 experiments, we found Duchenne sad expressions were not rated as any more genuine or sincere than non-Duchenne ones. The Duchenne marker did however make sad expressions look sadder and more negative, just like it made smiles look happier and more positive. Together, these findings argue the Duchenne marker has an important role in sad as well as smiling expressions, but is interpreted differently in sad expressions (contributions to intensity only) compared with smiles (emotion genuineness independently of intensity). (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid32710206, year = {2021}, author = {Russo, M and Bonanno, C and Profazio, C and La Foresta, S and Faraone, C and Lizio, A and Vita, GL and Sframeli, M and Aricò, I and Ruggeri, P and Toscano, A and Vita, G and Lunetta, C and Messina, S}, title = {Which are the factors influencing NIV adaptation and tolerance in ALS patients?.}, journal = {Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology}, volume = {42}, number = {3}, pages = {1023-1029}, pmid = {32710206}, issn = {1590-3478}, mesh = {*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/complications ; Humans ; *Noninvasive Ventilation ; Quality of Life ; *Respiratory Insufficiency ; Retrospective Studies ; }, abstract = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a multisystemic disease compromising both the neuromuscular system and the cognitive status. Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) has been shown to improve survival and quality of life in ALS patients with respiratory failure, but scanty literature investigated which are the predictors of NIV tolerance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of functional, cognitive, neurobehavioral, and respiratory status on NIV compliance and tolerance in patients with ALS. We retrospectively evaluated clinical data of ALS patients who consecutively underwent a NIV trial during hospitalization. Cognitive and neurobehavioral assessments have been performed using the Edinburgh Cognitive and Behavioral ALS Screen (ECAS), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), the Raven's 47 Colored Progressive Matrices (PM47), and the Neurobehavioral Rating Scale Revised (NRSR). Seventy-two patients (mean age ± SD; 63.9 ± 10.6 years) were included. Patients adapted were 63/72 (87.5%). The average time of adaptation was 7.82 ± 5.27 days. The time required to reach a satisfying NIV adaptation was significantly related to the presence of sialorrhea (p = 0.02), respiratory status (Borg Dyspnoea Scale, p = 0.006, and ALS-FRS-R respiratory subscore, p = 0.03) and behavioral and cognitive impairment (NRSR-F1, p = 0.04, NRSR- F5, p = 0.04). Presence of sialorrhea and neurobehavioral impairment, and absence of respiratory symptoms are negative predictors of NIV adaptation. This study highlights the need of a multidisciplinary patient-tailored approach including cognitive-behavioral assessment and a psychological support program to optimize patient's training and compliance to NIV.}, }
@article {pmid32707063, year = {2020}, author = {Aulsebrook, AE and Connelly, F and Johnsson, RD and Jones, TM and Mulder, RA and Hall, ML and Vyssotski, AL and Lesku, JA}, title = {White and Amber Light at Night Disrupt Sleep Physiology in Birds.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {30}, number = {18}, pages = {3657-3663.e5}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2020.06.085}, pmid = {32707063}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; *Circadian Rhythm ; Color ; Female ; *Light ; Male ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Sleep/*physiology/radiation effects ; }, abstract = {Artificial light at night can disrupt sleep in humans [1-4] and other animals [5-10]. A key mechanism for light to affect sleep is via non-visual photoreceptors that are most sensitive to short-wavelength (blue) light [11]. To minimize effects of artificial light on sleep, many electronic devices shift from white (blue-rich) to amber (blue-reduced) light in the evening. Switching outdoor lighting from white to amber might also benefit wildlife [12]. However, whether these two colors of light affect sleep similarly in different animals remains poorly understood. Here we show, by measuring brain activity, that both white and amber lighting disrupt sleep in birds but that the magnitude of these effects differs between species. When experimentally exposed to light at night at intensities typical of urban areas, domestic pigeons (Columba livia) and wild-caught Australian magpies (Cracticus tibicen tyrannica) slept less, favored non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep over REM sleep, slept less intensely, and had more fragmented sleep compared to when lights were switched off. In pigeons, these disruptive effects on sleep were similar for white and amber lighting. For magpies, however, amber light had less impact on sleep. Our results demonstrate that amber lighting can minimize sleep disruption in some birds but that this benefit may not be universal. VIDEO ABSTRACT.}, }
@article {pmid32705674, year = {2020}, author = {Waples, RS}, title = {An estimator of the Opportunity for Selection that is independent of mean fitness.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {74}, number = {9}, pages = {1942-1953}, doi = {10.1111/evo.14061}, pmid = {32705674}, issn = {1558-5646}, mesh = {*Genetic Fitness ; Models, Biological ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {Variation among individuals in number of offspring (fitness, k) sets an upper limit to the evolutionary response to selection. This constraint is quantified by Crow's Opportunity for Selection (I), which is the variance in relative fitness (I = σ[2]k /(uk)[2]). Crow's I has been widely used but remains controversial because it depends on mean offspring number in a sample (k¯). Here, I used a generalized Wright-Fisher model that allows for unequal probabilities of producing offspring to evaluate behavior of Crow's I and related indices under a wide range of sampling scenarios. Analytical and numerical results are congruent and show that rescaling the sample variance (s[2]k) to its expected value at a fixed k¯2 removes dependence of I on mean offspring number, but the result still depends on choice of k¯2 . A new index is introduced, ΔI = Î - E(Îdrift) = Î - 1/ k¯ , which makes Î independent of sample k¯ without the need for variance rescaling. ΔI has a straightforward interpretation as the component of variance in relative fitness that exceeds that expected under a null model of random reproductive success. ΔI can be used to directly compare estimates of the Opportunity for Selection for samples from different studies, different sexes, and different life stages.}, }
@article {pmid32681160, year = {2020}, author = {Lee, CY and Peralta-Sánchez, JM and Martínez-Bueno, M and Møller, AP and Rabelo-Ruiz, M and Zamora-Muñoz, C and Soler, JJ}, title = {The gut microbiota of brood parasite and host nestlings reared within the same environment: disentangling genetic and environmental effects.}, journal = {The ISME journal}, volume = {14}, number = {11}, pages = {2691-2702}, pmid = {32681160}, issn = {1751-7370}, mesh = {Animals ; Climate ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Humans ; *Parasites ; *Passeriformes ; Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {Gut microbiota are essential for host health and survival, but we are still far from understanding the processes involved in shaping their composition and evolution. Controlled experimental work under lab conditions as well as human studies pointed at environmental factors (i.e., diet) as the main determinant of the microbiota with little evidence of genetic effects, while comparative interspecific studies detected significant phylogenetic effects. Different species, however, also differ in diet, feeding behavior, and environmental characteristics of habitats, all of which also vary interspecifically, and, therefore, can potentially explain most of the detected phylogenetic patterns. Here, we take advantage of the reproductive strategy of avian brood parasites and investigate gut microbiotas (esophageal (food and saliva) and intestinal) of great spotted cuckoo (Clamator glandarius) and magpie (Pica pica) nestlings that grow in the same nests. We also estimated diet received by each nestling and explored its association with gut microbiota characteristics. Although esophageal microbiota of magpies and great spotted cuckoos raised within the same environment (nest) did not vary, the microbiota of cloacal samples showed clear interspecific differences. Moreover, diet of great spotted cuckoo and magpie nestlings explained the microbiota composition of esophageal samples, but not of cloaca samples. These results strongly suggest a genetic component determining the intestinal microbiota of host and parasitic bird species, indicating that interspecific differences in gut morphology and physiology are responsible for such interspecific differences.}, }
@article {pmid32680498, year = {2020}, author = {Wei, W and Zhen, Q and Tang, Z and Oosthuizen, MK}, title = {Risk assessment in the plateau pika (Ochotona curzoniae): intensity of behavioral response differs with predator species.}, journal = {BMC ecology}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {41}, pmid = {32680498}, issn = {1472-6785}, mesh = {Animals ; *Lagomorpha ; Risk Assessment ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The ability of a prey species to assess the risk that a predator poses can have important fitness advantages for the prey species. To better understand predator-prey interactions, more species need to be observed to determine how prey behavioral responses differ in intensity when approached by different types of predators. The plateau pika (Ochotona curzoniae) is preyed upon by all predators occurring in its distribution area. Therefore, it is an ideal species to study anti-predator behavior. In this study, we investigated the intensity of anti-predator behavior of pikas in response to visual cues by using four predator species models in Maqu County on the eastern Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau.<br><br>RESULTS: The behavioral response metrics, such as Flight Initiation Distance (FID), the hiding time and the percentage of vigilance were significantly different when exposed to a Tibetan fox, a wolf, a Saker falcon and a large-billed crow, respectively. Pikas showed a stronger response to Saker falcons compared to any of the other predators.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed that pikas alter their behavioral (such as FID, the hiding time and the vigilance) response intensity to optimally balance the benefits when exposed to different taxidermy predator species models. We conclude that pikas are able to assess their actual risk of predation and show a threat-sensitive behavioral response.}, }
@article {pmid32679226, year = {2020}, author = {Mohamed Benkada, A and Pontier, F and Dufour, V}, title = {Conflict management in rooks (Corvus frugilegus): Victims do not display post-conflict affiliation but avoid their former aggressor.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {179}, number = {}, pages = {104198}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2020.104198}, pmid = {32679226}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Aggression ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; *Crows ; Humans ; Reproduction ; *Sexual Behavior, Animal ; Sexual Partners ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Many social species use post-conflict behaviors to mitigate the consequences of conflicts. One of these behaviors is the victim's affiliation with its former opponent following conflict in an attempt to restore the damaged relationship. The victim can also affiliate with a third party. Affiliation with former opponents and third parties also alleviates stress. Studies of conflict management strategies in birds mostly concern corvids, and more specifically rooks (Corvus frugilegus). In this colonial pair-bonded species, the most valuable relationship is with the mate. It is rarely conflictual, meaning that there is generally no need for any post-conflict affiliation. However, conflicts occur with other social partners, and victims may primarily use third-party affiliation to avoid renewed aggression after conflicts. Previous studies of rooks failed to show a protective role of third-party affiliations for rook victims. The present study seeks to further investigate the use and efficiency of these conflict management strategies from the victim's perspective. We recorded conflicts and post-conflict behaviors in captive rooks using the standard post-conflict matched control comparison method. Victims did not affiliate with their former opponent or with third parties after conflict, but rather avoided their former aggressor, thus successfully limiting the risk of renewed aggression. Post-conflict affiliations are not observed in all rook colonies, suggesting that avoidance of the former aggressor may be a more commonly used strategy than previously thought.}, }
@article {pmid32661811, year = {2021}, author = {Baciadonna, L and Cornero, FM and Emery, NJ and Clayton, NS}, title = {Convergent evolution of complex cognition: Insights from the field of avian cognition into the study of self-awareness.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {49}, number = {1}, pages = {9-22}, pmid = {32661811}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain ; *Cognition ; *Hominidae ; Imagination ; }, abstract = {Pioneering research on avian behaviour and cognitive neuroscience have highlighted that avian species, mainly corvids and parrots, have a cognitive tool kit comparable with apes and other large-brained mammals, despite conspicuous differences in their neuroarchitecture. This cognitive tool kit is driven by convergent evolution, and consists of complex processes such as casual reasoning, behavioural flexibility, imagination, and prospection. Here, we review experimental studies in corvids and parrots that tested complex cognitive processes within this tool kit. We then provide experimental examples for the potential involvement of metacognitive skills in the expression of the cognitive tool kit. We further expand the discussion of cognitive and metacognitive abilities in avian species, suggesting that an integrated assessment of these processes, together with revised and multiple tasks of mirror self-recognition, might shed light on one of the most highly debated topics in the literature-self-awareness in animals. Comparing the use of multiple assessments of self-awareness within species and across taxa will provide a more informative, richer picture of the level of consciousness in different organisms.}, }
@article {pmid32659206, year = {2020}, author = {Slatin, C}, title = {Under the Knee of Jim Crow and Neoliberalism.}, journal = {New solutions : a journal of environmental and occupational health policy : NS}, volume = {30}, number = {2}, pages = {80-82}, doi = {10.1177/1048291120938232}, pmid = {32659206}, issn = {1541-3772}, mesh = {Humans ; *Politics ; Racism ; }, }
@article {pmid32654890, year = {2020}, author = {Gillespie, A}, title = {The Story of Dr Jay.}, journal = {American journal of kidney diseases : the official journal of the National Kidney Foundation}, volume = {76}, number = {4}, pages = {A18-A19}, doi = {10.1053/j.ajkd.2020.04.005}, pmid = {32654890}, issn = {1523-6838}, }
@article {pmid32638171, year = {2021}, author = {Wang, L and Zhang, D and Sui, J}, title = {Investigation of cognitive mechanisms and strategy on solving multiple string-pulling problems in Azure-winged magpie (Cyanopica cyanus).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {24}, number = {1}, pages = {1-10}, pmid = {32638171}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {2015HXFWBHQ-SJL-01//Research Fund for General Survey of Wildlife Resources/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition ; Learning ; Motivation ; *Passeriformes ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {String-pulling tasks are a widely used paradigm in animal cognition research. The present study tested whether ten azure-winged magpies (Cyanopica cyanus) could solve a series of multiple-strings problems with the aim of systematically investigating which rules this species uses to solve different-patterned string tasks, i.e., tasks in which subjects have to choose between two strings only one of which is connected to bait. When the subjects faced the parallel strings task (T1), five birds (C3, C5, C8, C9, and C10) were able to solve the task and acted in a goal-directed manner. Three birds (C5, C8, and C9) successfully solved the oblique parallel strings task (T3). The azure-winged magpies exhibited proximity selection in the oblique parallel strings task (C1 and C4 in T2), and the task with one string folded at a right angle (C3, C6 and C8 in T5). Several subjects also performed simple strategies in other unresolved tasks, e.g., random selection, trial-and-error learning, and side bias strategies (i.e., a certain degree of "left-handed" tendency). These results demonstrated that the azure-winged magpie possesses the potential to solve simple multiple-string tasks, although when faced with more difficult problems they could not solve them.}, }
@article {pmid32636427, year = {2020}, author = {Teixeira-Santos, AC and Pinal, D and Pereira, DR and Leite, J and Carvalho, S and Sampaio, A}, title = {Probing the relationship between late endogenous ERP components with fluid intelligence in healthy older adults.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {11167}, pmid = {32636427}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Aged ; Aging/*physiology ; *Cognition ; *Event-Related Potentials, P300 ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; }, abstract = {The world population is rapidly aging, bringing together the necessity to better understand the advancing age. This characterization may be used to aid early diagnosis and to guide individually-tailored interventions. While some event-related potential (ERP) components, such as the P300 and late positive complex (LPC), have been associated with fluid intelligence (Gf) in young population; little is known whether these associations hold for older people. Therefore, the main goal of this study was to assess whether these ERP components are associated with Gf in the elderly. Fifty-seven older adults performed a continuous performance task (CPT) and a visual oddball paradigm while EEG was recorded. Participants were divided into two groups, according to their performance in the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices test: high-performance (HP) and low-performance (LP). Results showed that the HP group, compared to the LP group, had higher LPC amplitudes in the CPT and shorter P300 latencies in the oddball task, highlighting the role of ERP components as a potential electrophysiological proxy of Gf abilities in the elderly.}, }
@article {pmid32636372, year = {2020}, author = {Weissensteiner, MH and Bunikis, I and Catalán, A and Francoijs, KJ and Knief, U and Heim, W and Peona, V and Pophaly, SD and Sedlazeck, FJ and Suh, A and Warmuth, VM and Wolf, JBW}, title = {Discovery and population genomics of structural variation in a songbird genus.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {3403}, pmid = {32636372}, issn = {2041-1723}, support = {UM1 HG008898/HG/NHGRI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Chromosome Inversion ; Gene Deletion ; *Genetic Variation ; *Genetics, Population ; Genome ; Genomic Structural Variation ; Genotype ; Phylogeny ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; Retroelements ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Songbirds/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Structural variation (SV) constitutes an important type of genetic mutations providing the raw material for evolution. Here, we uncover the genome-wide spectrum of intra- and interspecific SV segregating in natural populations of seven songbird species in the genus Corvus. Combining short-read (N = 127) and long-read re-sequencing (N = 31), as well as optical mapping (N = 16), we apply both assembly- and read mapping approaches to detect SV and characterize a total of 220,452 insertions, deletions and inversions. We exploit sampling across wide phylogenetic timescales to validate SV genotypes and assess the contribution of SV to evolutionary processes in an avian model of incipient speciation. We reveal an evolutionary young (~530,000 years) cis-acting 2.25-kb LTR retrotransposon insertion reducing expression of the NDP gene with consequences for premating isolation. Our results attest to the wealth and evolutionary significance of SV segregating in natural populations and highlight the need for reliable SV genotyping.}, }
@article {pmid32631282, year = {2020}, author = {Walker, EV and Yuan, Y and Girgis, S and Goodman, KJ}, title = {Patterns of fish and whale consumption in relation to methylmercury in hair among residents of Western Canadian Arctic communities.}, journal = {BMC public health}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {1073}, pmid = {32631282}, issn = {1471-2458}, support = {MOP115031, IPH108285, 90386/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; 201201159//Alberta Innovates - Health Solutions/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Arctic Regions ; Diet/methods/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; Fishes ; Food Contamination/*analysis ; Hair/*chemistry ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Methylmercury Compounds/*analysis ; Northwest Territories ; Seafood/*analysis ; Seasons ; Whales ; Yukon Territory ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Methylmercury contamination of the environment represents a substantial environmental health concern. Human exposure to methylmercury occurs primarily through consumption of fish and marine mammals. Heavily exposed subgroups include sport or subsistence fishers residing in Arctic communities. We aimed to estimate the association of fish/whale consumption patterns of Canadian Arctic subsistence fishers with the internal dose of methylmercury as measured in hair.<br><br>METHODS: This research was conducted within ongoing community projects led by the CANHelp Working Group in Aklavik and Fort McPherson, Northwest Territories and Old Crow, Yukon. We interviewed each participant using a fish-focused food-frequency questionnaire during September-November 2016 and collected hair samples concurrently. Methylmercury was measured in the full-length of each hair sample using gas chromatography inductively-coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Multivariable linear regression estimated beta-coefficients and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the effect of fish/whale consumption on hair-methylmercury concentrations.<br><br>RESULTS: Among 101 participants who provided hair samples and diet data, the mean number of fish/whale species eaten was 3.5 (SD:1.9). The mean hair-methylmercury concentration was 0.60&#x2009;&#x3bc;g/g (SD:0.47). Fish/whale consumption was positively associated with hair-methylmercury concentration, after adjusting for sex, hair length and use of permanent hair treatments. Hair-methylmercury concentrations among participants who consumed the most fish/whale in each season ranged from 0.30-0.50&#x2009;&#x3bc;g/g higher than those who consumed <&#x2009;1 meal/week.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In this population of Canadian Arctic subsistence fishers, hair-methylmercury concentration increased with fish/whale consumption, but the maximum concentrations were below Health Canada's 6.0&#x2009;&#x3bc;g/g threshold for safe exposure.}, }
@article {pmid32622309, year = {2020}, author = {Witt, A and Comblain, A and Thibaut, JP}, title = {Do typically and atypically developing children learn and generalize novel names similarly: The role of conceptual distance during learning and at test.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {104}, number = {}, pages = {103720}, doi = {10.1016/j.ridd.2020.103720}, pmid = {32622309}, issn = {1873-3379}, mesh = {Child ; Cognition ; Humans ; *Intellectual Disability ; Intelligence Tests ; Learning ; *Names ; }, abstract = {There is a large body of evidence showing that comparison of multiple stimuli leads to better conceptualization and generalization of novel names than no-comparison settings in typically developing (TD) children. By contrast, the evidence regarding this issue remains scarce in children with intellectual disabilities (ID). Children with intellectual disabilities (ID) and TD children matched on mental age with the Raven's coloured progressive matrices were tested in several novel name learning comparison conditions, with familiar objects. We manipulated the conceptual distance between the learning stimuli in the learning phase and between the learning and generalization phase stimuli for object and relational nouns. Results showed that both populations had rather similar performance profile when matched on their cognitive skills (low- vs. high-functioning). Unexpectedly, ID children's performance was equivalent for relations and better for objects compared to their TD peers' performance. However, when controlling for chronological age, the difference between ID and TD children disappeared in the case of object categories and was better understood by TD children in the case of relations. We discuss the role of conceptual distance on participants' conceptual generalization as a function of their intellectual abilities and cognitive functioning.}, }
@article {pmid32614135, year = {2020}, author = {Berens, AM and Ghazizadeh, S}, title = {Effect of defensins-containing eye cream on periocular rhytids and skin quality.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {19}, number = {8}, pages = {2000-2005}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.13424}, pmid = {32614135}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Adult ; Defensins ; Epidermis ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Prospective Studies ; Skin ; *Skin Aging ; Skin Cream ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Defensins are peptides shown to activate LGR6 stem cells to stimulate the production of new basal stem cells in the epidermis. Use of topical definsin-containing products has been shown to address signs of global skin aging including decrease of wrinkles and increase of epidermal thickness.<br><br>AIMS: To investigate the ability of a topical defensin-containing skincare product in improving the structure and function of aging periocular skin using objective and subjective outcome measures.<br><br>PATIENTS/METHODS: A prospective pilot trial of a defensin-containing eye cream was performed in patients with periocular rhytids over 6&#xa0;weeks. Subjective changes in skin quality and aging characteristics were compared using a patient survey tool. Objective changes in periocular skin quality were analyzed using the QuantifiCare imaging system and the DermLab ultrasound scanner by blinded reviewers.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of eight patients completed treatment; two were male, and six were female. The average age was 51&#xa0;years (range 37-63). Compliance with product application as reported on the participant application log was over 90%. Overall, there was an average 2.1 point improvement in subjective measures of skin quality on the consumer questionnaire (P&#xa0;=&#xa0;.002). QuantifiCare imaging of pores, wrinkles, and oiliness showed 370% improvement, 55% improvement, and 12% improvement, respectively. DermaLab noninvasive measurements of elasticity, skin thickness, and hydration showed improvement of 120%, 28%, and 6%, respectively.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The use of topical formulations of definsin-containing eye cream statically improves patient-reported outcomes of skin quality, especially redness, sensitivity to weather, age spots, and crow's feet.}, }
@article {pmid32612316, year = {2020}, author = {Boucherie, PH and Blum, C and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Effect of rearing style on the development of social behaviour in young ravens (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Ethology : formerly Zeitschrift fur Tierpsychologie}, volume = {126}, number = {6}, pages = {595-609}, pmid = {32612316}, issn = {0179-1613}, abstract = {Early social experiences can affect the development and expression of individual social behaviour throughout life. In particular, early-life social deprivations, notably of parental care, can later have deleterious consequences. We can, therefore, expect rearing procedures such as hand-raising-widely used in ethology and socio-cognitive science-to alter the development of individual social behaviour. We investigated how the rearing style later affected (a) variation in relationship strength among peers and (b) individuals' patterns of social interactions, in three captive groups of juvenile non-breeders consisting of either parent-raised or hand-raised birds, or a mix of both rearing styles. In the three groups, irrespectively of rearing style: strongest relationships (i.e., higher rates of association and affiliations) primarily emerged among siblings and familiar partners (i.e., non-relatives encountered in early life), and mixed-sex and male-male partners established relationships of similar strength, indicating that the rearing style does not severely affect the quality and structure of relationships in young ravens. However, compared to parent-raised ravens, hand-raised ravens showed higher connectedness, i.e., number of partners with whom they mainly associated and affiliated, but formed on average relationships of lower strength, indicating that social experience in early life is not without consequences on the development of ravens' patterns of social interaction. The deprivation of parental care associated with the presence of same-age peers during hand-raising seemed to maximize ravens' propensity to interact with others, indicating that besides parents, interactions with same-age peers matter. Opportunities to interact with, and socially learn from peers, might thus be the key to the acquisition of early social competences in ravens.}, }
@article {pmid32597551, year = {2021}, author = {Ye, R and Chang, W and Hu, J and Qiao, L and Wang, Q}, title = {A new method for skin aging evaluation of Chinese women.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {256-262}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.13461}, pmid = {32597551}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Aging ; Asian People ; China ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: With the development of cosmetic industry in China, an aging evaluation method of Chinese women is in great need.<br><br>AIMS: The aim of this study is to establish a skin aging assessment method using convenient portable machine Antera 3D.<br><br>METHODS: The quantitative approach was developed by capturing 11 areas of the face, and overall, 48 parameters were extracted for aging evaluation. Later, 297 subjects were recruited to take facial image and life style questionnaire. Evaluation of age was accomplished by establishing prediction method with detected skin traits.<br><br>RESULTS: The age prediction model was built by using the evaluated facial traits, and a R square of 0.6 is achieved by comparing to the chronological age. The crow's feet, cheek skin pigmentation, forehead skin tone, and wrinkles around the month are critical factors in evaluating Chinese women skin aging. In addition, we also explored life styles associated with important skin aging traits.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The method developed in this research provides reliable alternative in aging study of Chinese women.}, }
@article {pmid32596847, year = {2020}, author = {Flament, F and Abric, A and Amar, D}, title = {Gender-related differences in the facial aging of Chinese subjects and their relations with perceived ages.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {26}, number = {6}, pages = {905-913}, doi = {10.1111/srt.12893}, pmid = {32596847}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Asian People ; China ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Sex Characteristics ; *Skin Aging ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To describe the progressing severity of facial signs and their links with perceived age, of Chinese men and women.<br><br>METHODS: Full-face photographs of 438 Chinese subjects (220 men, 218 women) differently aged (18-80&#xa0;years) were taken. These photographs afforded a zoom on 5 facial signs of aging: forehead and crow's feet wrinkles, nasolabial fold, marionette lines and ptosis of the lower face. A panel of 15 experts graded each sign, using the Asian skin aging atlas reference. A na&#xef;ve panel of 80 Chinese women (20-60&#xa0;years) was asked to attribute an apparent age.<br><br>RESULTS: Despite slight differences in severity between genders, men and women share in common a rather regular progression rate, correlated with perceived ages. 15% of men were judged older by more than 10&#xa0;years, and all 5 signs were found more severe than the means of the other 85%. Forehead and Crow's feet wrinkles appear more pronounced in men. Ptosis is slightly more pronounced in women. Nasolabial fold does not differ. Marionette lines show distinct changes: those of men show a lessened severity and a slower rate of progression. In contrast with changes in facial signs with real ages, the upper face seems privileged in the perception of ages in women whereas the latter seems more focusing on its lower part in men.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The facial skin aging process in Chinese subjects presents an almost linear progression with perceived ages, common to both genders, at the exception of marionette lines that are more marked and more rapidly progressing in women.}, }
@article {pmid32583684, year = {2020}, author = {Strozier, CB}, title = {A Tribute to Robert Jay Lifton.}, journal = {Journal of the American Psychoanalytic Association}, volume = {68}, number = {3}, pages = {407-411}, doi = {10.1177/0003065120937642}, pmid = {32583684}, issn = {1941-2460}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Psychoanalysis/*history ; }, }
@article {pmid32581107, year = {2020}, author = {Chang, WS and Eden, JS and Hall, J and Shi, M and Rose, K and Holmes, EC}, title = {Metatranscriptomic Analysis of Virus Diversity in Urban Wild Birds with Paretic Disease.}, journal = {Journal of virology}, volume = {94}, number = {18}, pages = {}, pmid = {32581107}, issn = {1098-5514}, mesh = {Adenoviridae/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Animals ; Animals, Wild/*virology ; Astroviridae/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Australia/epidemiology ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/virology ; Birds/*virology ; Circoviridae/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Cities ; DNA Virus Infections/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; Humans ; *Metagenome ; Paramyxoviridae/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Parvoviridae/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Phylogeny ; Picornaviridae/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Polyomaviridae/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; RNA Virus Infections/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; *Transcriptome ; }, abstract = {Wild birds are major natural reservoirs and potential dispersers of a variety of infectious diseases. As such, it is important to determine the diversity of viruses they carry and use this information to help understand the potential risks of spillover to humans, domestic animals, and other wildlife. We investigated the potential viral causes of paresis in long-standing, but undiagnosed, disease syndromes in wild Australian birds. RNA from diseased birds was extracted and pooled based on tissue type, host species, and clinical manifestation for metagenomic sequencing. Using a bulk and unbiased metatranscriptomic approach, combined with clinical investigation and histopathology, we identified a number of novel viruses from the families Astroviridae, Adenoviridae, Picornaviridae, Polyomaviridae, Paramyxoviridae, Parvoviridae, and Circoviridae in common urban wild birds, including Australian magpies, magpie larks, pied currawongs, Australian ravens, and rainbow lorikeets. In each case, the presence of the virus was confirmed by reverse transcription (RT)-PCR. These data revealed a number of candidate viral pathogens that may contribute to coronary, skeletal muscle, vascular, and neuropathology in birds of the Corvidae and Artamidae families and neuropathology in members of the Psittaculidae The existence of such a diverse virome in urban avian species highlights the importance and challenges in elucidating the etiology and ecology of wildlife pathogens in urban environments. This information will be increasingly important for managing disease risks and conducting surveillance for potential viral threats to wildlife, livestock, and human health.IMPORTANCE Wildlife naturally harbor a diverse array of infectious microorganisms and can be a source of novel diseases in domestic animals and human populations. Using unbiased RNA sequencing, we identified highly diverse viruses in native birds from Australian urban environments presenting with paresis. This research included the clinical investigation and description of poorly understood recurring syndromes of unknown etiology: clenched claw syndrome and black and white bird disease. As well as identifying a range of potentially disease-causing viral pathogens, this study describes methods that can effectively and efficiently characterize emergent disease syndromes in free-ranging wildlife and promotes further surveillance for specific pathogens of potential conservation and zoonotic concern.}, }
@article {pmid32570741, year = {2020}, author = {Gil-Espinosa, FJ and Chillón, P and Fernández-García, JC and Cadenas-Sanchez, C}, title = {Association of Physical Fitness with Intelligence and Academic Achievement in Adolescents.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {17}, number = {12}, pages = {}, pmid = {32570741}, issn = {1660-4601}, mesh = {*Academic Success ; Adolescent ; Cardiorespiratory Fitness ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; *Physical Fitness ; Spain ; }, abstract = {Physical fitness, intelligence and academic achievement are being studied from a multidisciplinary perspective. In this line, studies to advance our understanding of intelligence and academic achievement could be relevant for designing school-based programs. Our study analyzed the relationship between components of physical fitness including cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength and flexibility and general intelligence and academic achievement in adolescents. We recruited 403 adolescents (53.6% boys) with a mean age of 13.7 ± 1.2 years from a secondary school in Spain with a medium socioeconomic status, during the 2015/2016 school year. Cardiorespiratory fitness was assessed by the 20-m shuttle run, muscular strength with the standing long jump test and flexibility with the sit-and-reach test. General intelligence was measured by both the D48 and the Raven tests. School grades were used to determine academic achievement. Linear regression analyses showed that cardiorespiratory fitness was positively associated with intelligence in both the D48 (all β ≥ 0.184, p ≤ 0.016) and the Raven tests (all β ≥ 0.183, p ≤ 0.024). Muscular strength, flexibility and overall fitness were not associated with intelligence (all β ≤ 0.122, p ≥ 0.139). Cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength and flexibility were positively associated with academic achievement (all β ≥ 0.089, p ≤ 0.038), except muscular strength, which was not significantly associated with Spanish language or mathematics, (all β ≤ 0.050, p ≥ 0.200). Overall, cardiorespiratory fitness was positively associated with intelligence and academic achievement.}, }
@article {pmid32555549, year = {2020}, author = {Małkiewicz, MM}, title = {The role of intelligence and temperamental traits in predicting reaction times in movement anticipation tasks: a preliminary study using the PAMT Test2Drive computer test.}, journal = {Medycyna pracy}, volume = {71}, number = {4}, pages = {421-427}, doi = {10.13075/mp.5893.00939}, pmid = {32555549}, issn = {2353-1339}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Movement ; *Reaction Time ; *Temperament ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The objective of the present work was to determine whether fluid intelligence scores and individual temperamental traits may be used to predict drivers' reaction times in movement anticipation tasks.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study encompassed 68 young female drivers (aged 20-26 years), who had received their driver's licenses at least 2 years prior. Anticipatory performance was evaluated using the Perception Anticipation Movement Test (PAMT) consisting of 3 sets of computer tasks differing in the speed of the moving objects. The level of fluid intelligence was determined using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices, and the temperamental traits with the Pavlovian Temperament Survey.<br><br>RESULTS: Intelligence was found to be significantly correlated with reaction time only in the second PAMT task set, for which it was also a good predictor. Findings suggested that a higher level of fluid intelligence in young female drivers was associated with longer reaction times in the movement anticipation task with objects moving at the medium speed level. Temperamental traits did not correlate with reaction times in all movement anticipation tasks, and they did not explain the participants' performance in the PAMT task sets.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study expands the current literature by assessing the relationship between fluid intelligence, temperamental traits and reaction times in movement anticipation tasks with objects moving at different speeds. The outcomes of this study are discussed together with those of previous research. Med Pr. 2020;71(4):421-7.}, }
@article {pmid32539849, year = {2020}, author = {Chakarov, N and Kampen, H and Wiegmann, A and Werner, D and Bensch, S}, title = {Blood parasites in vectors reveal a united blackfly community in the upper canopy.}, journal = {Parasites &amp; vectors}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {309}, pmid = {32539849}, issn = {1756-3305}, support = {PIEF-GA-2013-625883//H2020 Marie Sk&#x142;odowska-Curie Actions/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/parasitology ; *Blood ; DNA/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Female ; *Forests ; Haemosporida/*classification/isolation &amp; purification ; Host Specificity ; Insect Vectors/parasitology/physiology ; Meals ; Phylogeny ; Raptors/genetics/parasitology ; Simuliidae/*parasitology/physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The behaviour of blood-sucking arthropods is a crucial determinant of blood protozoan distribution and hence of host-parasite coevolution, but it is very challenging to study in the wild. The molecular identification of parasite lineages in vectors can be a useful key to understand the behaviour and transmission patterns realised by these vectors.<br><br>METHODS: In this study, we collected blackflies around nests of three raptor species in the upper forest canopy in central Europe and examined the presence of vertebrate DNA and haemosporidian parasites in them. We molecularly analysed 156 blackfly individuals, their vertebrate blood meals, and the haemosporidian parasite lineages they carried.<br><br>RESULTS: We identified nine species of Simulium blackflies, largely belonging to the subgenera Nevermannia and Eusimulium. Only 1% of the collected specimens was visibly engorged, and only 4% contained remains of host DNA. However, in 29% of the blackflies Leucocytozoon lineages were identified, which is evidence of a previous blood meal on an avian host. Based on the known vertebrate hosts of the recorded Leucocytozoon lineages, we can infer that large and/or abundant birds, such as thrushes, crows, pigeons, birds of prey, owls and tits are the main targets of ornithophilic blackflies in the canopy. Blackfly species contained similar proportions of host group-specific parasite lineages and thus do not appear to be associated with particular host groups.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The Leucocytozoon clade infecting thrushes, crows, and pigeons present in most represented blackfly species suggests a lack of association between hosts and blackflies, which can increase the probability of host switches of blood parasites. However, the composition of the simuliid species differed between nests of common buzzards, goshawks and red kites. This segregation can be explained by coinciding habitat preferences between host and vector, and may lead to the fast speciation of Leucocytozoon parasites. Thus, subtle ecological preferences and lack of host preference of vectors in the canopy may enable both parasite diversification and host switches, and enforce a habitat-dependent evolution of avian malaria parasites and related haemosporidia.}, }
@article {pmid32537333, year = {2020}, author = {De Boulle, K and Carruthers, A and Solish, N and Carruthers, J and Phillipp-Dormston, WG and Fagien, S and Sangha, S and Silberberg, M and Mao, C}, title = {OnabotulinumtoxinA Treatment for Moderate to Severe Forehead Lines: A Review.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open}, volume = {8}, number = {3}, pages = {e2669}, pmid = {32537333}, issn = {2169-7574}, abstract = {UNLABELLED: With onabotulinumtoxinA approved for the treatment of glabellar and crow's feet lines and, most recently, for forehead lines (FHL), it is possible to simultaneously treat multiple areas of the upper face that are of high concern and treatment priority for aesthetically oriented individuals. This review aims to present key insights on the use of onabotulinumtoxinA for the treatment of moderate to severe FHL.<br><br>METHODS: Double-blind, placebo-controlled registration trials of onabotulinumtoxinA for the treatment of FHL were included. Using findings from 3 such published studies, we discuss key concepts and clinical experience for the treatment of moderate to severe FHL with onabotulinumtoxinA (20 U in the frontalis and 20 U in the glabellar complex, with/without 24 U in crow's feet lines), including injection pattern, dose selection, efficacy and safety data, and considerations for patient selection.<br><br>RESULTS: Across the 2 pivotal phase 3 studies, responder rates on investigator- and subject-assessed measures of appearance of FHL severity were significantly higher with onabotulinumtoxinA versus placebo for the treatment of FHL at day 30 (P < 0.0001), and results were maintained through 3 cycles of onabotulinumtoxinA.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: OnabotulinumtoxinA treatment also resulted in high patient satisfaction rates. The incidence of eyebrow and of eyelid ptosis was low, and no new safety signals were detected. OnabotulinumtoxinA is safe and effective and an appropriate option for patients with moderate to severe FHL encountered in clinical practice.}, }
@article {pmid32530124, year = {2021}, author = {Lin, P and Alexander, RA and Liang, CH and Liu, C and Lin, YH and Lin, YH and Chan, LP and Kuan, CM}, title = {Collagen formula with Djulis for improvement of skin hydration, brightness, texture, crow's feet, and collagen content: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {188-194}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.13500}, pmid = {32530124}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//Kalbe Farma/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Collagen ; Double-Blind Method ; Humans ; Skin ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The efficacy of Djulis for skin care is currently based on cellular or animal models, and the clinical aspect is not in place.<br><br>AIM: This clinical study is to investigate the synergistic effect of fish collagen and Djulis (Chenopodium formosanum Koidz.) for improvement of skin parameters. We used the combination of hydrolyzed collagen and Djulis to develop a new functional formula for skin improvement.<br><br>PATIENTS/METHODS: Fifty volunteers were randomly allocated (in a 1:1 ratio) to the placebo or collagen drink group. Volunteers were required to consume a 50&#xa0;mL of a collagen drink or placebo drink daily for 8&#xa0;weeks. For measurements, the indexes of skin conditions were measured at the baseline and 4 and 8&#xa0;weeks.<br><br>RESULTS: The improvements of skin hydration, brightness, crow's feet, texture, wrinkles, pores, spots, and collagen content after 8&#xa0;weeks in collagen group were 17.8%, 5.4%, 14.9%, 9.9%, 29.3%, 10.4%, 9.9%, and 22.3%, respectively. Noticeably, over 68% of subjects got improved for their skin parameters after 8-week intake of collagen drink. The improvement levels indicated competitive skin improvement effects in comparison with previous studies.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This clinical study demonstrates the synergistic effect of fish collagen and Djulis (the main components) for the substantial improvements in hydration, brightness, crow's feet, texture, wrinkles, pores, surface spots, and collagen content in skin. The collagen drink comprehensively improved skin parameters for most subjects after 4-week intake and manifested competitive efficiency in comparison with other similar studies. We convince that the collagen drink may delay skin aging process and improve skin aging parameters.}, }
@article {pmid32524146, year = {2020}, author = {Bratsberg, B and Rogeberg, O and Skirbekk, V}, title = {Fathers of children conceived using ART have higher cognitive ability scores than fathers of naturally conceived children.}, journal = {Human reproduction (Oxford, England)}, volume = {35}, number = {6}, pages = {1461-1468}, doi = {10.1093/humrep/deaa119}, pmid = {32524146}, issn = {1460-2350}, mesh = {Child ; *Child Development ; Cognition ; Humans ; Male ; Norway ; Reproductive Techniques, Assisted ; *Sperm Injections, Intracytoplasmic ; }, abstract = {STUDY QUESTION: Does paternal cognitive ability differ for children conceived with and without assisted reproductive technology (ART)?<br><br>SUMMARY ANSWER: Young fathers of ART conceived children tend to score cognitively below their same-age natural conception (NC) counterparts and older (above 35) fathers of ART conceived children tend to score above.<br><br>WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: Cognitive ability is a genetically and socially transmitted trait, and If ART and NC children have parents with different levels of this trait, then this would in itself predict systematic differences in child cognitive outcomes. Research comparing cognitive outcomes of children with different modes of conception finds conflicting results, and studies may be influenced by selection and confounding.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: This is a population-based study based on Norwegian data, combining information from the Medical Birth Registry (births through 2012), military conscription tests (birth cohorts 1955-1977) and the population registry. These data allow us to compare the cognitive ability scores of men registered as the father of an ART-conceived child to the cognitive abilities of other fathers and to average scores in the paternal birth cohorts.<br><br>The population level study included 18&#xa0;566 births after ART (5810 after ICSI, 12&#xa0;756 after IVF), and 1&#xa0;048&#xa0;138 NC births. It included all Norwegian men who received a cognitive ability score after attending military conscription between 1973 and 1995. This constituted 614&#xa0;827 men (89.4% of the male birth cohorts involved). An additional 77&#xa0;650 unscored males were included in sensitivity analyses.<br><br>Paternal cognitive level was assessed using intelligence quotients (IQ) converted from stanine scores on a three-part cognitive ability test with items measuring numeracy, vocabulary and abstract thought (Raven-like matrices). ART fathers averaged 1.95 IQ points above the average of their own birth cohort (P-value < 0.0005) and 1.83 IQ points above NC fathers in their own birth cohort (P&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.0005). Comparisons of the IQ of ART fathers to those of NC fathers of similar age and whose children were born in the same year, however, found average scores to be more similar (point estimate 0.24, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.023). These low average differences were found to differ substantially by age of fatherhood, with young ART fathers scoring below their NC counterparts and older ART fathers scoring above their NC counterparts.<br><br>We do not have information on maternal cognition. We also lack information on unsuccessful infertility treatments that did not result in a live birth.<br><br>Paternal cognitive ability of ART children differs from that of NC children, and this difference varies systematically with paternal age at child birth. Selection effects into ART may help explain differences between ART and NC children and need to be adequately controlled for when assessing causal effects of ART treatment on child outcomes.<br><br>This research has also been supported by the Research Council of Norway through its Centres of Excellence funding scheme, project number 262700 (Centre for Fertility and Health). It has also been supported by the Research Council of Norway's Project 236992 (Egalitarianism under pressure? New perspectives on inequality and social cohesion). There are no competing interests.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: N/A.}, }
@article {pmid32520748, year = {2020}, author = {Bonsib, SM}, title = {Renal Hypoplasia, From Grossly Insufficient to Not Quite Enough: Consideration for Expanded Concepts Based Upon the Author's Perspective With Historical Review.}, journal = {Advances in anatomic pathology}, volume = {27}, number = {5}, pages = {311-330}, pmid = {32520748}, issn = {1533-4031}, mesh = {Humans ; Kidney/*pathology ; Kidney Diseases/*pathology ; }, abstract = {Hypoplasia is defined in the Merriman-Webster dictionary as "a condition of arrested development in which an organ, or part, remains below the normal size, or in an immature state." The degree of reduced size is not definitional. Renal hypoplasia, however, has historically been defined as a more marked reduction in renal mass such that presentation in childhood is the norm. There are 3 commonly recognized types of renal hypoplasia, simple hypoplasia, oligomeganephronic hypoplasia (oligomeganephronia) and segmental hypoplasia (Ask-Upmark kidney). They have in common a reduction in the number of renal lobes. A fourth type, not widely recognized, is cortical hypoplasia where nephrogenesis is normal but there is a reduction in the number of nephron generations. Recently there has been great interest in milder degrees of reduced nephron mass, known as oligonephronia because of its association with risk of adult-onset hypertension and chronic kidney disease. Since the last pathology review of this topic was published by Jay Bernstein in 1968, an update of the renal pathology findings in renal hypoplasia is provided with a review of 18 new cases. The renal hypoplasias are then framed within the modern concept of oligonephronia, its diverse causes and prognostic implications.}, }
@article {pmid32508178, year = {2021}, author = {Layes, S and Lalonde, R and Rebai, M}, title = {Reading-related abilities underlying phonological awareness: a cross-sectional study in children with and without dyslexia.}, journal = {Logopedics, phoniatrics, vocology}, volume = {46}, number = {3}, pages = {110-117}, doi = {10.1080/14015439.2020.1768283}, pmid = {32508178}, issn = {1651-2022}, mesh = {Awareness ; Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Dyslexia/diagnosis ; Humans ; Phonetics ; *Reading ; Voice Quality ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: The present cross-sectional study examined the individual role of rapid automatized naming (RAN), verbal short-term memory (VSTM), and phonological verbal fluency (PVF) along with word reading performance in predicting phonological awareness (PA).<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 225 Arabic speaking children from grades 2, 3, 4 and 5 took part in this study, divided into two groups of readers: typical developing readers and dyslexic readers. The participants were tested on word and pseudoword reading, phonological awareness, rapid naming, verbal short-term memory and phonological verbal fluency.<br><br>RESULTS: There are different predictive patterns between the two groups. Whereas Raven and Grade contributed directly in predicting PA in typical readers, VSTM and PVF directly predicted PA in children with dyslexia. However, word reading played a dual role in the both groups as direct predictors of PA, mediating the predictive relationships between PA and the other variables.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results suggest the potential existence of an underlying phonological representation processing ability shared between PA, phonological access (RAN and PVF), VSTM, and word reading ability.}, }
@article {pmid32501351, year = {2020}, author = {Prescod-Weinstein, C}, title = {The not-so-blue jays.}, journal = {New scientist (1971)}, volume = {246}, number = {3283}, pages = {21}, doi = {10.1016/S0262-4079(20)30964-7}, pmid = {32501351}, issn = {0262-4079}, abstract = {Watching birds is great entertainment, and there's fascinating physics behind how some get their colours, says Chanda Prescod-Weinstein.}, }
@article {pmid32487038, year = {2020}, author = {Hasan, H and Deek, MP and Phillips, R and Hobbs, RF and Malek, R and Radwan, N and Kiess, AP and Dipasquale, S and Huang, J and Caldwell, T and Leitzel, J and Wendler, D and Wang, H and Thompson, E and Powell, J and Dudley, S and Deville, C and Greco, SC and Song, DY and DeWeese, TL and Gorin, MA and Rowe, SP and Denmeade, S and Markowski, M and Antonarakis, ES and Carducci, MA and Eisenberger, MA and Pomper, MG and Pienta, KJ and Paller, CJ and Tran, PT}, title = {A phase II randomized trial of RAdium-223 dichloride and SABR Versus SABR for oligomEtastatic prostate caNcerS (RAVENS).}, journal = {BMC cancer}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {492}, pmid = {32487038}, issn = {1471-2407}, support = {IIRUS2014437//Bayer HealthCare/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Animals ; Bone Neoplasms/mortality/secondary/*therapy ; Chemoradiotherapy/adverse effects/*methods ; Clinical Trials, Phase II as Topic ; Disease Progression ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Progression-Free Survival ; Prostatic Neoplasms/mortality/pathology/*therapy ; Radioisotopes/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Radiosurgery/adverse effects/*methods ; Radium/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Metastasis directed therapy (MDT) for patients with oligometastatic disease is associated with improvements in progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) compared to systemic therapy alone. Additionally, within a prostate-cancer-specific cohort, MDT is able to forestall initiation of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in men with hormone-sensitive, oligometastatic prostate cancer (HSOPCa) compared to observation. While MDT appears to be safe and effective in HSOPCa, a large percentage of men will eventually have disease recurrence. Patterns of failure in HSOPCa demonstrate patients tend to have recurrence in the bone following MDT, raising the question of sub-clinically-apparent osseous disease. Radium-223 dichloride is a radiopharmaceutical with structural similarity to calcium, allowing it to be taken up by bone where it emits alpha particles, and therefore might have utility in the treatment of micrometastatic osseous disease. Therefore, the primary goal of the phase II RAVENS trial is to evaluate the efficacy of MDT + radium-223 dichloride in prolonging progression free survival in men with HSOPCa.<br><br>METHODS: Patients with HSOPCa and 3 or less metastases with at least 1 bone metastasis will be randomized 1:1 to stereotactic ablative radiation (SABR, also known as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT)) alone vs SABR + radium-223 dichloride with a minimization algorithm to balance assignment by institution, primary intervention, prior hormonal therapy, and PSA doubling time. SABR is delivered in one to five fractions and patients in the SABR + radium-223 dichloride arm will receive six infusions of radium-223 dichloride at four-week intervals. The primary end point is progression free survival. The secondary clinical endpoints include toxicity and quality of life assessments, local control at 12&#x2009;months, locoregional progression, time to distant progression, time to new metastasis, and duration of response.<br><br>DISCUSSION: The RAVENS trial will be the first described phase II, non-blinded, randomized study to compare SABR +/- radium-223 dichloride in patients with HSOPCa and 3 or less metastases with at least one bone metastasis. The primary hypothesis is that SABR + radium-223 dichloride will increase median progression-free survival from 10&#x2009;months in the SABR arm to 20&#x2009;months in the SABR + radium-223 dichloride arm.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATIONS: Clinicaltrials.gov. Identifier: NCT04037358. Date of Registration: July 30, 2019. Date of First Participant Enrolled: August 9, 2019. Date of Last Approved Amendment: October 16, 2019. Protocol Version: Version 5.}, }
@article {pmid32485232, year = {2020}, author = {Wang, L and Luo, Y and Wang, H and Zou, Y and Yao, H and Ullah, S and Li, Z}, title = {Azure-winged magpies fail to understand the principle of mirror imaging.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {177}, number = {}, pages = {104155}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2020.104155}, pmid = {32485232}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Cognition ; *Passeriformes ; *Recognition, Psychology ; }, abstract = {Mirror self-recognition (MSR) is considered a crucial step in the emergence of self-cognition. The MSR paradigm has become a standard method for evaluating self-cognition in several species. For example, Eurasian magpies and Indian house crows have passed the mark test for self-cognition, whereas efforts to find MSR in other corvid species have failed. However, no literature has conducted MSR tests on azure-winged magpies, a species of corvids. Therefore, the current research aimed to investigate the MSR behaviours of azure-winged magpies upon looking into a mirror for the first time. The study included four tests: (1) mirror preference and standardised mirror exploration, (2) single vertical mirror test, (3) mark test and (4) mirror-triggered search test. The azure-winged magpies displayed immense curiosity towards the mirror and their images in the mirror in Test 1&amp;2. In the subsequent mark tests, they failed to recognise themselves in the mirror and regarded their images as conspecifics. Behaviour analysis showed no significant difference between marked and unmarked behaviours. Finally they seemed to infer the presence of bait from the image in the mirror, but were found to fail to understand that the location of the bait in the mirror was the same as that in the real world. For a better insight into the MSR behaviour of azure-winged magpies, research studies involving prolonged mirror exposure and training are recommended.}, }
@article {pmid32477837, year = {2020}, author = {Wang, L and Guo, J and Tian, HJ and Sui, J}, title = {The ability of oriental magpies (Pica serica) to solve baited multiple-string problems.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {e9200}, pmid = {32477837}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Baited multiple-string problems are commonly used in avian laboratory studies to evaluate complex cognition. Several bird species possess the ability to use a string pull for obtaining food.<br><br>METHODS: We initially tested and trained 11 magpies to determine whether the oriental magpie (Pica sericia) possesses the ability to solve baited multiple-string problems. Eight of the birds obtained the bait by pulling, and were selected for formal multiple-string tasks in the second stage. Second stage tests were divided into seven tasks based on string configurations.<br><br>RESULTS: Only two magpies were able to solve two tasks: one solved the task of parallel strings, and the other solved the task of slanted strings with the bait farther from the middle point between the two strings and selected the short string in the task of long-short strings. When faced with more difficult tasks (i.e., the task of slanted strings with the bait closer to the middle point between the two strings, the task with two crossing strings, and the task of continuity and discontinuity), the birds initially observed the tasks and chose instead to adopt simpler strategies based on the proximity principle, side bias strategies and trial-and-error learning. Our results indicate that the oriental magpie had a partial understanding of the principle of multiple-string problems but adopted simpler strategies.}, }
@article {pmid32475721, year = {2020}, author = {Deguines, N and Lorrilliere, R and Dozières, A and Bessa-Gomes, C and Chiron, F}, title = {Any despot at my table? Competition among native and introduced bird species at garden birdfeeders in winter.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {734}, number = {}, pages = {139263}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.139263}, pmid = {32475721}, issn = {1879-1026}, mesh = {Animal Feed ; Animals ; Columbidae ; Europe ; Gardening ; *Gardens ; *Introduced Species ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {Garden bird feeding constitutes a massive provision of food that can support bird communities, but there is a growing concern it might favour the establishment of exotic species that could be detrimental to others. How bird species compete with novel species for this anthropogenic food resources needs to be assessed. Here, we investigated competition in wintering bird communities at garden birdfeeders. We evaluated whether - and how much - bird access to resources is hampered by the presence of putative superior competing species, among which the Rose-ringed parakeet, the most abundant introduced species across Europe. Using the nation-wide citizen science scheme BirdLab, in which volunteers record in real-time bird attendance on a pair of birdfeeders during 5-minute sessions, we tested whether i) cumulative bird presence time and richness at birdfeeders, and ii) species probability of presence at birdfeeders, were influenced by three large species (the Eurasian magpie, the Eurasian collared-dove, and the Rose-ringed parakeet). Additionally, we assessed whether the Rose-ringed parakeet occupied resources significantly more than others. Presence of the Rose-ringed parakeet or the Eurasian collared-dove similarly reduced community cumulative presence time at birdfeeders, but only the dove reduced community richness. Each of the three large species influenced the presence of at least one of the six smaller species that could be separately modelled, but effects varied in strength and direction. The Rose-ringed parakeet and the Eurasian collared-dove were among the three species monopolising birdfeeders the longest, substantially more than the Eurasian magpie. Our findings confirm the competitive abilities of the large species studied, but do not suggest that garden bird feeding may alarmingly favour introduced species with detrimental effects on native species. Given the variability of large species' effects on small passerines, direct and indirect interactions among all species must be examined to fully understand the ecological net effects at stake.}, }
@article {pmid32475334, year = {2020}, author = {Uomini, N and Fairlie, J and Gray, RD and Griesser, M}, title = {Extended parenting and the evolution of cognition.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {375}, number = {1803}, pages = {20190495}, pmid = {32475334}, issn = {1471-2970}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; *Cognition ; *Crows/growth &amp; development ; Life History Traits ; *Maternal Behavior ; *Paternal Behavior ; Phylogeny ; Songbirds/growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {Traditional attempts to understand the evolution of human cognition compare humans with other primates. This research showed that relative brain size covaries with cognitive skills, while adaptations that buffer the developmental and energetic costs of large brains (e.g. allomaternal care), and ecological or social benefits of cognitive abilities, are critical for their evolution. To understand the drivers of cognitive adaptations, it is profitable to consider distant lineages with convergently evolved cognitions. Here, we examine the facilitators of cognitive evolution in corvid birds, where some species display cultural learning, with an emphasis on family life. We propose that extended parenting (protracted parent-offspring association) is pivotal in the evolution of cognition: it combines critical life-history, social and ecological conditions allowing for the development and maintenance of cognitive skillsets that confer fitness benefits to individuals. This novel hypothesis complements the extended childhood idea by considering the parents' role in juvenile development. Using phylogenetic comparative analyses, we show that corvids have larger body sizes, longer development times, extended parenting and larger relative brain sizes than other passerines. Case studies from two corvid species with different ecologies and social systems highlight the critical role of life-history features on juveniles' cognitive development: extended parenting provides a safe haven, access to tolerant role models, reliable learning opportunities and food, resulting in higher survival. The benefits of extended juvenile learning periods, over evolutionary time, lead to selection for expanded cognitive skillsets. Similarly, in our ancestors, cooperative breeding and increased group sizes facilitated learning and teaching. Our analyses highlight the critical role of life-history, ecological and social factors that underlie both extended parenting and expanded cognitive skillsets. This article is part of the theme issue 'Life history and learning: how childhood, caregiving and old age shape cognition and culture in humans and other animals'.}, }
@article {pmid32468297, year = {2020}, author = {Liu, J and Xu, J and Zou, G and He, Y and Zou, Q and Gao, JH}, title = {Reliability and Individual Specificity of EEG Microstate Characteristics.}, journal = {Brain topography}, volume = {33}, number = {4}, pages = {438-449}, doi = {10.1007/s10548-020-00777-2}, pmid = {32468297}, issn = {1573-6792}, support = {2016ZT06S220//Guangdong Pearl River Talents Plan/International ; 2015CB856400//China's National Strategic Basic Research Program ("973") grant/International ; 81871427//National Natural Science Foundation of China/International ; 81671765//National Natural Science Foundation of China/International ; 81430037//National Natural Science Foundation of China/International ; 81727808//National Natural Science Foundation of China/International ; 81790650//National Natural Science Foundation of China/International ; 81790651//National Natural Science Foundation of China/International ; 31421003//National Natural Science Foundation of China/International ; 7172121//Beijing Municipal Natural Science Foundation/International ; 2018YFC2000603//National Key Research and Development Program of China/International ; 2017YFC0108900//National Key Research and Development Program of China/International ; Z181100001518005//Beijing Municipal Science &amp; Technology Commission/International ; Z161100002616006//Beijing Municipal Science &amp; Technology Commission/International ; Z171100000117012//Beijing Municipal Science &amp; Technology Commission/International ; 2018B030332001//The Guangdong Key Basic Research Grant/International ; }, mesh = {*Brain/physiology ; *Electroencephalography ; Healthy Volunteers ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {Electroencephalography (EEG) microstates (MSs) are defined as quasi-stable topographies that represent global coherent activation. Alternations in EEG MSs have been reported in numerous neuropsychiatric disorders. Transferring the results of these studies into clinical practice requires not only high reliability but also sufficient individual specificity. Nevertheless, whether the amount of data used in microstate analysis influences reliability and how much individual information is provided by EEG MSs are unclear. In the current study, we aimed to assess the within-subject consistency and between-subject differences in the characteristics of EEG MSs. Two sets of eyes-closed resting-state EEG recordings were collected from 54 young, healthy participants on two consecutive days. The Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices test was conducted to assess general fluid intelligence (gF). We obtained four MSs (labeled A, B, C and D) through EEG microstate analysis. EEG MS characteristics including traditional features (the global explained variances, mean durations, coverages, occurrences and transition probabilities), the Hurst exponents and temporal dynamic features (the autocorrelation functions and the partial autocorrelation functions) were calculated and evaluated. The data with a duration greater than 2 min showed moderate to high reliability and individual specificity. The mean duration and coverage of MS C were significantly correlated with the gF score. The dynamic features showed a higher identification accuracy and were more significantly correlated with gF than the traditional MS features. These findings reveal that EEG microstate characteristics are reliably unique in single subjects and possess abundant inter-individual variability.}, }
@article {pmid32463251, year = {2020}, author = {Brecht, KF and Müller, J and Nieder, A}, title = {Carrion crows (Corvus corone corone) fail the mirror mark test yet again.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1037/com0000231}, pmid = {32463251}, issn = {1939-2087}, support = {//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; }, abstract = {The mirror mark test is generally considered to be an indicator of an animal's ability to recognize itself in the mirror. For this test, an animal is confronted with a mirror and has a mark placed where it can see the mark only with the help of the mirror. When the animal extensively touches or interacts with the mark, compared with control conditions, the mirror mark test is passed. Many nonhuman animal species have been tested, but few have succeeded. After magpies and Indian house crows passed, there has been a sustained interest to find out whether other corvids would pass the mirror mark test. Here, we presented 12 carrion crows (Corvus corone corone) with the mirror mark test. There was no significant increase of mark-directed behavior in the mirror mark test, compared with control conditions. We find very few occasions of mark-directed behaviors and have to interpret them in the context of self-directed behavior more generally. In addition, we show that our crows were motivated to interact with a mark when it was visible to them without the aid of a mirror. We conclude that our crows fail the test, and thereby replicate previous studies showing a similar failure in corvids, and crows in particular. Because our study adds to the growing literature of corvids failing the mirror mark test, the issue of mirror self-recognition in these birds remains controversial. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid32460855, year = {2020}, author = {Langbaum, JB and Ellison, NN and Caputo, A and Thomas, RG and Langlois, C and Riviere, ME and Graf, A and Lopez Lopez, C and Reiman, EM and Tariot, PN and Hendrix, SB}, title = {The Alzheimer's Prevention Initiative Composite Cognitive Test: a practical measure for tracking cognitive decline in preclinical Alzheimer's disease.}, journal = {Alzheimer's research &amp; therapy}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {66}, pmid = {32460855}, issn = {1758-9193}, support = {P30 AG019610/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AG063954/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; UF1 AG046150/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; UF1AG046150/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aged ; *Alzheimer Disease/diagnosis ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnosis ; Disease Progression ; Humans ; Mental Recall ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: There is growing interest in identifying sensitive composite cognitive tests to serve as primary endpoints in preclinical Alzheimer's disease (AD) treatment trials. We reported previously a composite cognitive test score sensitive to tracking preclinical AD decline up to 5 years prior to clinical diagnosis. Here we expand upon and refine this work, empirically deriving a composite cognitive test score sensitive to tracking preclinical AD decline up to 11 years prior to diagnosis and suitable for use as a primary endpoint in a preclinical AD trial.<br><br>METHODS: This study used a longitudinal approach to maximize sensitivity to tracking progressive cognitive decline in people who progressed to the clinical stages of AD (n&#xa0;=&#x2009;868) compared to those who remained cognitively unimpaired during the same time period (n&#xa0;=&#x2009;989), thereby correcting for normal aging and practice effects. Specifically, we developed the Alzheimer's Prevention Initiative Preclinical Composite Cognitive test (APCC) to measure very early longitudinal cognitive decline in older adults with preclinical AD. Data from three cohorts from Rush University were analyzed using a partial least squares (PLS) regression model to identify optimal composites within different time periods prior to diagnosis, up to 11&#x2009;years prior to diagnosis. The mean-to-standard deviation ratio (MSDRs) is an indicator of sensitivity to change and was used to inform the final calculation of the composite score.<br><br>RESULTS: The optimal composite, the APCC, is calculated: 0.26*Symbol Digit Modalities +&#x2009;2.24*MMSE Orientation to Time&#x2009;+&#x2009;2.14*MMSE Orientation to Place +&#x2009;0.53*Logical Memory Delayed Recall +&#x2009;1.36* Word List-Delayed Recall +&#x2009;0.68*Judgment of Line Orientation +&#x2009;1.39*Raven's Progressive Matrices Matrices (subset of 9 items from A and B). The MSDR of the APCC in a population of preclinical AD individuals who eventually progress to cognitive impairment, compared to those who remained cognitively unimpaired during the same time period, was -&#x2009;1.10 over 1&#xa0;year.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The APCC is an empirically derived composite cognitive test score with high face validity that is sensitive to preclinical AD decline up to 11&#x2009;years prior to diagnosis of the clinical stages of AD. The components of the APCC are supported by theoretical understanding of cognitive decline that occurs during preclinical AD. The APCC was used as a primary outcome in the API Generation Program trials.}, }
@article {pmid32452069, year = {2020}, author = {Malden, DE and Mangoni, AA and Woodman, RJ and Thies, F and McNeil, C and Murray, AD and Soiza, RL}, title = {Circulating asymmetric dimethylarginine and cognitive decline: A 4-year follow-up study of the 1936 Aberdeen Birth Cohort.}, journal = {International journal of geriatric psychiatry}, volume = {35}, number = {10}, pages = {1181-1188}, doi = {10.1002/gps.5355}, pmid = {32452069}, issn = {1099-1166}, mesh = {*Arginine/analogs &amp; derivatives ; *Cognitive Dysfunction ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Nitric Oxide Synthase ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The underlying mechanisms leading to dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are unclear. Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), an endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase, may be associated with cognitive decline, but population-based evidence is lacking.<br><br>METHODS: Change in cognitive performance was assessed in participants of the Aberdeen Birth Cohort of 1936 using longitudinal Raven's progressive matrices (RPM) between 2000 and 2004. Multiple linear regression was used to estimate the association between ADMA concentrations in 2000 and change in cognitive performance after adjustment for potential confounders.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 93 participants had complete information on cognitive performance between 2000 and 2004. Mean plasma ADMA concentrations were approximately 0.4 &#x3bc;mol/L lower in those participants with stable or improved RPM scores over follow-up compared with participants whose cognitive performance worsened. In confounder-adjusted analysis, one SD (0.06&#x2009;&#x3bc;mol/L) increase in ADMA at 63&#x2009;years of age was associated with an average reduction in RPM of 1.26 points (95% CI 0.14-2.26) after 4&#x2009;years.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Raised plasma ADMA concentrations predicted worsening cognitive performance after approximately 4&#x2009;years in this cohort of adults in late-middle age. These findings have implications for future research, including presymptomatic diagnosis or novel therapeutic targets for dementia and AD.}, }
@article {pmid32437410, year = {2020}, author = {Clarke, MJ and Fraser, EE and Warkentin, IG}, title = {Fine spatial-scale variation in scavenger activity influences avian mortality assessments on a boreal island.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {e0233427}, pmid = {32437410}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Coleoptera ; *Ecosystem ; *Feeding Behavior ; Forests ; *Islands ; Newfoundland and Labrador ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {Bird-window collisions are the second leading cause of human-related avian mortality for songbirds in Canada. Our ability to accurately estimate the number of fatalities caused by window collisions is affected by several biases, including the removal of carcasses by scavengers prior to those carcasses being detected during surveys. We investigated the role of scavenger behavior in modifying perceived carcass removal rate while describing habitat-specific differences for the scavengers present in a relatively scavenger-depauperate island ecosystem. We used motion activated cameras to monitor the fate of hatchling chicken carcasses placed at building (under both windows and windowless walls) and forest (open and closed canopy) sites in western Newfoundland, Canada. We recorded the identity of scavengers, timing of events, and frequency of repeat scavenging at sites. Using 2 treatments, we also assessed how scavenging varied with 2 levels of carcass availability (daily versus every third day). Scavenger activities differed substantially between forest and building sites. Only common ravens (Corvus corax) removed carcasses at building sites, with 25 of 26 removals occurring under windows. Burying beetles (Nicrophorus spp.) dominated scavenging at forest sites (14 of 18 removals), completely removing carcasses from sight in under 24 hours. Availability had no effect on removal rate. These findings suggest that ravens look for carcasses near building windows, where bird-window collision fatalities create predictable food sources, but that this learning preceded the study. Such behavior resulted in highly heterogeneous scavenging rates at fine spatial scales indicating the need for careful consideration of carcass and camera placement when monitoring scavenger activity. Our observations of burying beetle activity indicate that future studies investigating bird collision mortality near forested habitats and with infrequent surveys, should consider local invertebrate community composition during survey design. The high incidence of invertebrate scavenging may compensate for the reduced vertebrate scavenger community of insular Newfoundland.}, }
@article {pmid32428037, year = {2020}, author = {Dierick, F and Buisseret, F and Renson, M and Luta, AM}, title = {Digital natives and dual task: Handling it but not immune against cognitive-locomotor interferences.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {e0232328}, pmid = {32428037}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Brain/physiology ; *Cell Phone Use ; *Cognition ; Female ; Gait/physiology ; Humans ; Locomotion/*physiology ; Male ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Digital natives developed in an electronic dual tasking world. This paper addresses two questions. Do digital natives respond differently under a cognitive load realized during a locomotor task in a dual-tasking paradigm and how does this address the concept of safety? We investigate the interplay between cognitive (talking and solving Raven's matrices) and locomotor (walking on a treadmill) tasks in a sample of 17 graduate level participants. The costs of dual-tasking on gait were assessed by studying changes in stride interval time and its variability at long-range. A safety index was designed and computed from total relative change between the variability indices in the single walking and dual-task conditions. As expected, results indicate high Raven's scores with gait changes found between the dual task conditions compared to the single walking task. Greater changes are observed in the talking condition compared to solving Raven's matrices, resulting in high safety index values observed in 5 participants. We conclude that, although digital natives are efficient in performing the dual tasks when they are not emotional-based, modification of gait are observable. Due to the variation within participants and the observation of high safety index values in several of them, individuals that responded poorly to low cognitive loads should be encouraged to not perform dual task when executing a primate task of safety to themselves or others.}, }
@article {pmid32421218, year = {2020}, author = {Jang, M and Baek, S and Kang, G and Yang, H and Kim, S and Jung, H}, title = {Dissolving microneedle with high molecular weight hyaluronic acid to improve skin wrinkles, dermal density and elasticity.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {42}, number = {3}, pages = {302-309}, doi = {10.1111/ics.12617}, pmid = {32421218}, issn = {1468-2494}, support = {20000462//Korea Institute of Energy Technology Evaluation and Planning/ ; 20000462//Industrial Core Technology Development Program/ ; //Ministry of Trade/ ; }, mesh = {Double-Blind Method ; Elasticity ; Female ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; Middle Aged ; Molecular Weight ; *Needles ; Skin/*drug effects ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Dissolving microneedle patches have been extensively studied in the field of cosmetics comparison with topical cosmetics focusing on the delivery of active ingredients. Nevertheless, the skin improvement effect of hyaluronic acid, which is mainly used as a backbone material for dissolving microneedle, was not analyzed. In this study, adenosine encapsulated high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid dissolving microneedle patch (Ad-HMN and Ad-LMN) were evaluated with respect to skin wrinkling, dermal density, elasticity, and safety in a clinical test on the crow's feet area.<br><br>METHODS: Clinical efficacy and safety tests were performed for 12&#xa0;weeks on twenty three female subjects with wrinkles around their eyes. The Ad-HMN and Ad-LMN patch were applied once every 3&#xa0;days, in the evening, for 8&#xa0;weeks to the designated crow's feet area. Skin wrinkling, dermal density, and elasticity were measured by using PRIMOS[&#xae;] premium, Dermascan[&#xae;] C, Cutometer[&#xae;] MPA580, and Corneometer[&#xae;] CM 825, respectively.<br><br>RESULTS: Both Ad-HMN and Ad-LMN groups showed statistically significant efficacy for almost all parameters. The Ad-HMN patch had better effect on the mean depth of biggest wrinkles, maximum depth of biggest wrinkles, dermal density, and skin elasticity than the Ad-LMN patch. No adverse effects were observed in either group during the test period.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In the clinical efficacy test of four skin-improvement parameters, the Ad-HMN patch showed the better effect than the Ad-LMN patch with the similar adenosine dose.}, }
@article {pmid32406720, year = {2020}, author = {Soler, M and Colmenero, JM and Pérez-Contreras, T and Peralta-Sánchez, JM}, title = {Replication of the mirror mark test experiment in the magpie (Pica pica) does not provide evidence of self-recognition.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1037/com0000223}, pmid = {32406720}, issn = {1939-2087}, support = {//Junta de Andaluc&#xed;a/ ; }, abstract = {Self-recognition in animals is demonstrated when individuals pass the mark test. Formerly, it was thought that self-recognition was restricted to humans, great apes, and certain mammals with large brains and highly evolved social cognition. However, 1 study showed that 2 out of 5 magpies (Pica pica) passed the mark test, suggesting that magpies have a similar level of cognitive abilities to great apes. The scientific advancement depends on confidence in published science, and this confidence can be reached only after rigorous replication of published studies. Here, we present a close replication of the magpie study but using a larger sample size while following a very similar experimental protocol. Like the previous study, in our experiment, magpies showed both social and self-directed behavior more frequently in front of the mirror versus a control cardboard stimulus. However, during the mark test, self-directed behavior proved more frequent in front of the cardboard than in the mirror. Thus, our replication failed to confirm the previous results. Close replications, while not disproving an earlier study, identify results that should be considered with caution. Therefore, more replication studies and additional experimental work is needed to unambiguously demonstrate that magpies are consistently able to pass the mark test. The existence of compelling evidence of self-recognition in other corvid species is discussed in depth. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid32390905, year = {2020}, author = {Gao, H and Che, Q and Zhang, D and Chai, Y and Luo, X and Cai, T}, title = {Insensitivity to Success and Failure: An Experimental Study of Performance-Based Feedback in Depression.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {670}, pmid = {32390905}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This experimental study set out to examine the effects of performance feedback (success or failure) on depressed emotions and self-serving attribution bias in inpatients suffering from major depressive disorder (MDD).<br><br>METHODS: The study was based on a 2 &#xd7; 2 experimental design in which 71 MDD patients and 59 healthy controls participated. Both groups (MDD and controls) were randomly assigned to two conditions: success or failure in the performance feedback. A section of Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) was used as a bogus test of the participants' reasoning abilities, and the Core Depressive Factor of the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale was used to measure changes in depressed emotion in the subjects following the performance feedback. Participants then rated the accuracy of the SPM as a measure of their reasoning capacity.<br><br>RESULTS: The levels of depressed emotions in patients with MDD did not differ significantly under the two feedback conditions. In contrast, depressed emotion levels increased significantly in healthy individuals in response to failure feedback but did not change in response to success feedback. With regard to the ratings of SPM accuracy, there was no significant difference across the two feedback conditions for depressed patients; however, the accuracy ratings were higher in the success condition than in the failure condition for the controls.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Individuals with MDD exhibit blunted emotional reactivity when experiencing new positive or negative social stimuli, supporting the theory of Emotion Context Insensitivity. In addition, self-serving attribution bias does not occur in MDD, which is consistent with the theory of learned helplessness in depression.}, }
@article {pmid32384666, year = {2020}, author = {Myszkowski, N}, title = {A Mokken Scale Analysis of the Last Series of the Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM-LS).}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {8}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {32384666}, issn = {2079-3200}, abstract = {Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices Raven (1941) is a widely used 60-item long measure of general mental ability. It was recently suggested that, for situations where taking this test is too time consuming, a shorter version, comprised of only the last series of the Standard Progressive Matrices (the SPM-LS; Myszkowski and Storme (2018)) could be used, while preserving satisfactory psychometric properties Garcia-Garzon et al. (2019); Myszkowski and Storme (2018). In this study, I argue, however, that some psychometric properties have been left aside by previous investigations. As part of this special issue on the reinvestigation of Myszkowski and Storme's dataset, I propose to use the non-parametric Item Response Theory framework of Mokken Scale Analysis Mokken (1971, 1997) and its current developments Sijtsma and van der Ark (2017) to shed new light on the SPM-LS. Extending previous findings, this investigation indicated that the SPM-LS had satisfactory scalability (H = 0 . 469), local independence and reliability (M S = 0 . 841 , L C R C = 0 . 874). Further, all item response functions were monotonically increasing, and there was overall evidence for invariant item ordering (H T = 0 . 475), supporting the Double Monotonicity Model Mokken (1997). Item 1, however, appeared problematic in most analyses. I discuss the implications of these results, notably regarding whether to discard item 1, whether the SPM-LS sum scores can confidently be used to order persons, and whether the invariant item ordering of the SPM-LS allows to use a stopping rule to further shorten test administration.}, }
@article {pmid32384646, year = {2020}, author = {Partchev, I}, title = {Diagnosing a 12-Item Dataset of Raven Matrices: With Dexter.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {8}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {32384646}, issn = {2079-3200}, abstract = {We analyze a 12-item version of Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices test, traditionally scored with the sum score. We discuss some important differences between assessment in practice and psychometric modelling. We demonstrate some advanced diagnostic tools in the freely available R package, dexter. We find that the first item in the test functions badly-at a guess, because the subjects were not given exercise items before the live test.}, }
@article {pmid32383548, year = {2021}, author = {Mohammadi, S and Shokri, J and Ranjkesh, M and Akbari Hamed, S and Monajjemzadeh, F}, title = {Comparative physicochemical stability and clinical anti-wrinkle efficacy of transdermal emulgel preparations of 5% sodium ascorbyl phosphate and or ascorbic acid on human volunteers.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {174-180}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.13471}, pmid = {32383548}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Administration, Cutaneous ; Ascorbic Acid/analogs &amp; derivatives ; Healthy Volunteers ; Humans ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Antioxidant containing cosmeceuticals are commonly prescribed products in treating wrinkles and revitalizing the skin. The aim of this study was the comparative evaluation of physicochemical stability and clinical anti-wrinkle efficacy of transdermal emulgel preparations of sodium ascorbyl phosphate (SAP) and ascorbic acid (AA) on human volunteers.<br><br>METHODS: Emulgel preparations containing 5% of (SAP) and or (AA) were prepared. HPLC analysis was performed for stability evaluations. Clinical anti-wrinkle efficacy of the formulations was examined on human healthy volunteers in crow's feet area. Elasticity and digital images were recorded before and after treatment.<br><br>RESULTS: Formulations with added antioxidants and kept in the refrigerator exhibited better stability characteristics. Two-sided blind study and placebo-controlled study showed that both actives were effective in wrinkles depth reduction and also elasticity enhancement but statistically significant difference in the efficacy of the products was not observed.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Formulations containing (AA) and or (SAP) both improved elasticity and wrinkles of the skin almost by the same extent, and it is necessary to add antioxidant stabilizing agents to both preparations to reach a desired stability.}, }
@article {pmid32372855, year = {2020}, author = {Gill, LF and van Schaik, J and von Bayern, AMP and Gahr, ML}, title = {Genetic monogamy despite frequent extrapair copulations in "strictly monogamous" wild jackdaws.}, journal = {Behavioral ecology : official journal of the International Society for Behavioral Ecology}, volume = {31}, number = {1}, pages = {247-260}, pmid = {32372855}, issn = {1045-2249}, abstract = {"Monogamy" refers to different components of pair exclusiveness: the social pair, sexual partners, and the genetic outcome of sexual encounters. Avian monogamy is usually defined socially or genetically, whereas quantifications of sexual behavior remain scarce. Jackdaws (Corvus monedula) are considered a rare example of strict monogamy in songbirds, with lifelong pair bonds and little genetic evidence for extrapair (EP) offspring. Yet jackdaw copulations, although accompanied by loud copulation calls, are rarely observed because they occur visually concealed inside nest cavities. Using full-day nest-box video surveillance and on-bird acoustic bio-logging, we directly observed jackdaw sexual behavior and compared it to the corresponding genetic outcome obtained via molecular parentage analysis. In the video-observed nests, we found genetic monogamy but frequently detected forced EP sexual behavior, accompanied by characteristic male copulation calls. We, thus, challenge the long-held notion of strict jackdaw monogamy at the sexual level. Our data suggest that male mate guarding and frequent intrapair copulations during the female fertile phase, as well as the forced nature of the copulations, could explain the absence of EP offspring. Because EP copulation behavior appeared to be costly for both sexes, we suggest that immediate fitness benefits are an unlikely explanation for its prevalence. Instead, sexual conflict and dominance effects could interact to shape the spatiotemporal pattern of EP sexual behavior in this species. Our results call for larger-scale investigations of jackdaw sexual behavior and parentage and highlight the importance of combining social, sexual, and genetic data sets for a more complete understanding of mating systems.}, }
@article {pmid32369021, year = {2020}, author = {Huber, S and Welham Ruiters, M and Syring, C and Steiner, A}, title = {[Improvement of claw health of cattle in Switzerland].}, journal = {Schweizer Archiv fur Tierheilkunde}, volume = {162}, number = {5}, pages = {285-292}, doi = {10.17236/sat00257}, pmid = {32369021}, issn = {1664-2848}, mesh = {Animal Husbandry/*methods/trends ; Animals ; Cattle ; Cattle Diseases/epidemiology/*prevention &amp; control ; Foot Diseases/prevention &amp; control/veterinary ; *Hoof and Claw ; Switzerland/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {The modern technique of cattle hoof care was founded by E. Toussaint Raven in 1977. Environmental risk factors on cattle claws altered in the past 43 years. The change from free ranging to indoor housing, the intensified feeding and the breeding towards traits of high performance have significantly increased the mechanical and chemical stress on the claws. In modern free-stalls, dairy cows are required to walk on hard flooring to feed, drink and get milked. Good hoof health is a basic requirement for cattle welfare. Professional and regular hoof trimming is still considered the most effective measure to promote hoof health in dairy cattle. In order to meet today's requirements and to promote claw health, the Swiss Hoof Trimmers Association (SKV), in collaboration with the Vetsuisse faculties, Universities of Berne and Zurich, and the Bovine Health Service (RGD, Bern) developed and described the Swiss technique of functional claw trimming. The aim was to establish a consistent method, which takes into account the size and bodyweight of the modern cow, the anatomical and physiological characteristics of their claws and includes adaptations counteracting very relevant diseases such as digital dermatitis. The result is a workflow described and illustrated with coloured pictures and consisting of five individual steps based on the technique of E. Toussaint Raven, Additionally, the upcoming Swiss national resource project on long-term improvement of claw health is presented in some detail. The key point of this project is the electronic documentation of clinical findings by the trained professional claw trimmers. This data will later (i) be used to assess the foot health of Swiss cows, (ii) allow to determine the prevalence of foot diseases of cattle in Switzerland and (iii) to monitor the effect of the implementation of foot health concepts. The aim of this work is to combine the findings from science and the practical experience of hoof trimmers in one method, to standardize the applied hoof care in Switzerland and to adapt it to today's hoof health requirements.}, }
@article {pmid32365814, year = {2020}, author = {Mancianti, F and Terracciano, G and Sorichetti, C and Vecchio, G and Scarselli, D and Perrucci, S}, title = {Epidemiologic Survey on Toxoplasma gondii and Trichinella pseudospiralis Infection in Corvids from Central Italy.}, journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {9}, number = {5}, pages = {}, pmid = {32365814}, issn = {2076-0817}, abstract = {Free-ranging corvids-678 magpies (Pica pica) and 120 hooded crows (Corvus cornix) from nine protected areas of the Pisa province (central Italy)-were examined for Toxoplasma gondii and Trichinella pseudospiralis. The intracardiac blood clots from 651 magpies and 120 hooded crows were serologically examined for T. gondii. The DNA extracted from the hearts of seropositive birds was then used to perform a nested PCR for the amplification of the T. gondii B1 gene and for genotyping for SAG genetic markers. Breast muscle samples from 678 magpies and 91 hooded crows were tested by an artificial digestion method for Trichinella. Data were statistically analyzed. Forty-five (5.8%-41 magpies and four hooded crows) out of the 771 examined animals scored seropositive for T. gondii, with titers ranging from 1:25 to 1:100. T. gondii DNA was detected in 15 of the 45 positive birds and T. gondii genotypes II and III were identified. No positivity for T. pseudospiralis was found. No significant differences between the two species of corvids and among the different areas of origin were observed for seropositivity to T. gondii. This is the first extensive study on both T. gondii and T. pseudospiralis in magpies and hooded crows, as well as the first detection of T. gondii SAG genotypes in magpies.}, }
@article {pmid32364805, year = {2020}, author = {Carr, J and Stone, R and Tymko, C and Tymko, K and Coombs, GB and Hoiland, RL and Howe, CA and Tymko, MM and Ainslie, PN and Patrician, A}, title = {Global REACH 2018: The Effect of an Expiratory Resistance Mask with Dead Space on Sleep and Acute Mountain Sickness During Acute Exposure to Hypobaric Hypoxia.}, journal = {High altitude medicine &amp; biology}, volume = {21}, number = {3}, pages = {297-302}, doi = {10.1089/ham.2019.0124}, pmid = {32364805}, issn = {1557-8682}, mesh = {Altitude ; *Altitude Sickness ; Humans ; Hypoxia ; Peru ; Sleep ; }, abstract = {Carr, Jay, Rachel Stone, Courtney Tymko, Kaitlyn Tymko, Geoff B. Coombs, Ryan L. Hoiland, Connor A. Howe, Michael M. Tymko, Philip N. Ainslie, and Alexander Patrician. Global REACH 2018: the effect of an expiratory resistance mask with dead space on sleep and acute mountain sickness during acute exposure to hypobaric hypoxia. High Alt Med Biol. 21:297-302, 2020. We hypothesized that an expiratory resistance and dead space (ER/DS) mask, a version of which was previously shown to partially alleviate sleep-disordered breathing and headache severity during acute normobaric hypoxia (Patrician et al.), would exhibit similar results in conditions of hypobaric hypoxia. In a randomized, single-blinded, sham-controlled, and sex-matched design, 31 healthy lowlanders rapidly (6-8 hours) ascended from sea level to 4300 m (Cerro de Pasco, Peru) and slept with either an ER/DS mask (n = 15) or sham mask (n = 16). Sleep was assessed (via WatchPAT) and questionnaires collected before sleep and upon waking the morning after. There was no difference in apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) between the ER/DS (77 ± 20 events/h) or sham mask (84 ± 27 events/h; p = 0.57). In addition, there was no alleviation of headache scores, improvement in sleep quality, or acute mountain sickness symptom severity. Both the sham and ER/DS masks were poorly tolerated (∼50% subject noncompliance in both groups). These findings highlight the importance and necessity of field-testing and demonstrate that more testing is needed before ER/DS devices, such as these, can be recommended for prophylactic benefits at high altitude.}, }
@article {pmid32364781, year = {2020}, author = {Martínez, JG and Molina-Morales, M and Precioso, M and Avilés, JM}, title = {Age-Related Brood Parasitism and Egg Rejection in Magpie Hosts.}, journal = {The American naturalist}, volume = {195}, number = {5}, pages = {876-885}, doi = {10.1086/708155}, pmid = {32364781}, issn = {1537-5323}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; *Host-Parasite Interactions ; *Nesting Behavior ; Ovum ; Rejection, Psychology ; *Reproduction ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {When the strength or nature of a host-parasite interaction changes over the host life cycle, the consequences of parasitism can depend on host population age structure. Avian brood parasites reduce hosts' breeding success, and host age may play a role in this interaction if younger hosts are more likely parasitized and/or less able to defend themselves. We analyzed whether the age of female magpie (Pica pica) hosts is associated with parasite attack or their ability to reject foreign eggs. We recorded parasitism and model egg rejection of known-age individuals over their lifetime and established whether the likelihood of parasitism or egg rejection changed with age or longevity. Parasitism probability did not change with female age, and there was a trend toward longer-lived females being less likely to be parasitized. However, model egg rejection probability increased with age for each individual female, and longer-lived females were more prone to reject model eggs. Most females in the population were young, and the majority of them accepted model eggs, suggesting that brood parasites exploiting younger host individuals are benefitting from a lower defense level of their hosts. Our results stress that the intensity of selection by brood parasites may be mediated by the age structure of host populations, a to-date neglected aspect in brood parasite-host research.}, }
@article {pmid32363388, year = {2020}, author = {Chan, CGH and Yow, WQ and Oei, A}, title = {Active Bilingualism in Aging: Balanced Bilingualism Usage and Less Frequent Language Switching Relate to Better Conflict Monitoring and Goal Maintenance Ability.}, journal = {The journals of gerontology. Series B, Psychological sciences and social sciences}, volume = {75}, number = {9}, pages = {e231-e241}, doi = {10.1093/geronb/gbaa058}, pmid = {32363388}, issn = {1758-5368}, mesh = {Aged ; Aging/*psychology ; *Cognition ; *Executive Function ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Language ; Male ; Motivation ; *Multilingualism ; Reaction Time ; Speech Production Measurement/methods/psychology ; Task Performance and Analysis ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Experience-related neuroplasticity suggests that bilinguals who actively manage their two languages would develop more efficient neural organization at brain regions related to language control, which also overlap with areas involved in executive control. Our aim was to examine how active bilingualism-manifested as the regular balanced use of two languages and language switching-may be related to the different domains of executive control in highly proficient healthy older adult bilinguals, controlling for age, processing speed, and fluid intelligence.<br><br>METHODS: Participants were 76 community-dwelling older adults who reported being physically and mentally healthy and showed no signs of cognitive impairment. They completed a self-report questionnaire on their language background, two computer measures for previously identified covariates (processing speed as measured by two-choice reaction time (RT) task and fluid intelligence as measured by the Raven's Progressive Matrices), as well as a battery of computerized executive control tasks (Color-shape Task Switching, Stroop, Flanker, and Spatial 2-back task).<br><br>RESULTS: Regression analyses showed that, even after controlling for age, processing speed, and fluid intelligence, more balanced bilingualism usage and less frequent language switching predicted higher goal maintenance (nonswitch trials RT in Color-shape Task Switching) and conflict monitoring abilities (global RT in Color-shape Task Switching and Flanker task).<br><br>DISCUSSION: Results suggest that active bilingualism may provide benefits to maintaining specific executive control abilities in older adult bilinguals against the natural age-related declines.}, }
@article {pmid32362859, year = {2020}, author = {Roch, M and Pesciarelli, F and Leo, I}, title = {How Individuals With Down Syndrome Process Faces and Words Conveying Emotions? Evidence From a Priming Paradigm.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {692}, pmid = {32362859}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Emotion recognition from facial expressions and words conveying emotions is considered crucial for the development of interpersonal relations (Pochon and Declercq, 2013). Although Down syndrome (DS) has received growing attention in the last two decades, emotional development has remained underexplored, perhaps because of the stereotype of high sociability in persons with DS. Yet recently, there is some literature that is suggesting the existence of specific deficits in emotion recognition in DS. The current study aimed to expand our knowledge on how individuals with DS process emotion expressions from faces and words by adopting a powerful methodological paradigm, namely priming. The purpose is to analyse to what extent emotion recognition in DS can occur through different processes than in typical development. Individuals with DS (N = 20) were matched to a control group (N = 20) on vocabulary knowledge (PPTV) and non-verbal ability (Raven's matrices). Subsequently a priming paradigm was adopted: stimuli were photos of faces with different facial expressions (happy, sad, neutral) and three words (happy, sad, neutral). On a computer screen the first item (face or word) was presented for a very short time (prime) and afterward a stimulus (face or word) appeared (target). Participants had to recognize whether the target was an emotion (sad/happy) or not (neutral). Four prime-target pairs were presented (face-word; word-face; word-word; face-word) in two conditions: congruent (same emotion prime/target) and incongruent (different emotion prime/target). The results failed to show evidence for differential processing during emotion recognition between the two groups matched for verbal and non-verbal abilities. Both groups showed a typical priming effect: In the incongruent condition, slower reaction times were recorded, in particular when the target to be recognized is the face, providing evidence that the stimuli were indeed processed. Overall, the data of the current work seem to support the idea of similar developmental trajectories in individuals with DS and TD of the same verbal and non-verbal level, at least as far as the processing of simple visual and linguistic stimuli conveying basic emotions is concerned. Results are interpreted in relation to recent finding on emotion recognition from faces and words in DS.}, }
@article {pmid32330422, year = {2020}, author = {Ksepka, DT and Balanoff, AM and Smith, NA and Bever, GS and Bhullar, BS and Bourdon, E and Braun, EL and Burleigh, JG and Clarke, JA and Colbert, MW and Corfield, JR and Degrange, FJ and De Pietri, VL and Early, CM and Field, DJ and Gignac, PM and Gold, MEL and Kimball, RT and Kawabe, S and Lefebvre, L and Marugán-Lobón, J and Mongle, CS and Morhardt, A and Norell, MA and Ridgely, RC and Rothman, RS and Scofield, RP and Tambussi, CP and Torres, CR and van Tuinen, M and Walsh, SA and Watanabe, A and Witmer, LM and Wright, AK and Zanno, LE and Jarvis, ED and Smaers, JB}, title = {Tempo and Pattern of Avian Brain Size Evolution.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {30}, number = {11}, pages = {2026-2036.e3}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2020.03.060}, pmid = {32330422}, issn = {1879-0445}, support = {MR/S032177/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; /HHMI/Howard Hughes Medical Institute/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology/*genetics ; Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Organ Size ; }, abstract = {Relative brain sizes in birds can rival those of primates, but large-scale patterns and drivers of avian brain evolution remain elusive. Here, we explore the evolution of the fundamental brain-body scaling relationship across the origin and evolution of birds. Using a comprehensive dataset sampling> 2,000 modern birds, fossil birds, and theropod dinosaurs, we infer patterns of brain-body co-variation in deep time. Our study confirms that no significant increase in relative brain size accompanied the trend toward miniaturization or evolution of flight during the theropod-bird transition. Critically, however, theropods and basal birds show weaker integration between brain size and body size, allowing for rapid changes in the brain-body relationship that set the stage for dramatic shifts in early crown birds. We infer that major shifts occurred rapidly in the aftermath of the Cretaceous-Paleogene mass extinction within Neoaves, in which multiple clades achieved higher relative brain sizes because of a reduction in body size. Parrots and corvids achieved the largest brains observed in birds via markedly different patterns. Parrots primarily reduced their body size, whereas corvids increased body and brain size simultaneously (with rates of brain size evolution outpacing rates of body size evolution). Collectively, these patterns suggest that an early adaptive radiation in brain size laid the foundation for subsequent selection and stabilization.}, }
@article {pmid32327926, year = {2020}, author = {Hoch, PC and Gandhi, K}, title = {Nomenclatural changes in Onagraceae.}, journal = {PhytoKeys}, volume = {145}, number = {}, pages = {57-62}, pmid = {32327926}, issn = {1314-2011}, abstract = {A new subspecies and two new combinations are proposed in Onagraceae. Ludwigia glandulosa Walter subsp. brachycarpa C.-I Peng, subsp. nov. is morphologically distinct from the typical subspecies, with smaller capsules and leaves, different seed coat, and a restricted distribution. Epilobium sect. Pachydium (Fischer &amp; C. A. Meyer) Hoch &amp; K. Gandhi, comb. nov. refers to a distinctive group of species formerly known as Boisduvalia Spach and as Epilobium sect. Boisduvalia (Spach) Hoch &amp; P. H. Raven. And Chamaenerion speciosum (Decaisne) Hoch &amp; K. Gandhi, comb. nov. is proposed for a distinctive Himalayan species originally described in Epilobium.}, }
@article {pmid32325686, year = {2020}, author = {Chiaravalloti, A and Ricci, M and Di Biagio, D and Filippi, L and Martorana, A and Schillaci, O}, title = {The Brain Metabolic Correlates of the Main Indices of Neuropsychological Assessment in Alzheimer's Disease.}, journal = {Journal of personalized medicine}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {32325686}, issn = {2075-4426}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The study aimed to investigate the relationships between F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (18F)FDG uptake and neuropsychological assessment in Alzheimer's disease (AD).<br><br>METHODS: We evaluated 116 subjects with AD according to the NINCDS-ADRDA criteria. All the subjects underwent a brain PET/CT with (18F)FDG, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) assay, mini-mental state examination (MMSE) and further neuropsychological tests: Rey auditory verbal learning test, immediate recall (RAVLT immediate); Rey auditory verbal learning test, delayed recall (RAVLT, delayed); Rey complex figure test, copy (RCFT, copy); Rey complex figure test, delayed recall (RCFT, delayed); Raven's colored progressive matrices (RCPM); phonological word fluency test (PWF) and Stroop test. We performed the statistical analysis by using statistical parametric mapping (SPM12; Wellcome Department of Cognitive Neurology, London, UK).<br><br>RESULTS: A significant relationship has been reported between (18F)FDG uptake and RAVLT immediate test in Brodmann area (BA)37 and BA22 and with RCFT, copy in BA40, and BA7. We did not find any significant relationships with other tests.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In the AD population, brain (18F)FDG uptake is moderately related to the neuropsychological assessment, suggesting a limited impact on statistical data analysis of glucose brain metabolism.}, }
@article {pmid32315489, year = {2021}, author = {Flament, F and Belkebla, S and Adam, AS and Abric, A and Amar, D}, title = {Gender-related differences in the facial aging of Caucasian French subjects and their relations with perceived ages and tiredness.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {227-236}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.13446}, pmid = {32315489}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//L/ ; //'/ ; //Or&#xe9;al Research &amp; Innovation Department/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aging ; Asian People ; Fatigue/epidemiology/etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Skin Aging ; White People ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: (a) To assess and compare the changes in five facial signs with age between genders of Caucasian subjects and (b) to evaluate their links with perceived ages and tiredness.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: Once zoomed from standardized digital photographs, five facial signs of 518 Caucasian French subjects of both genders and different ages (18-69&#xa0;years) were graded by 15 experts, using a referential Skin Aging Atlas. A large na&#xef;ve panel of 1000 French subjects (500 men and 500 women) was asked to attribute a perceived age and a degree of tiredness to 200 subjects (among the 518).<br><br>RESULTS: The severity of the facial signs increases with time at a linear-like rate. The changes in marionette lines significantly differ between genders, much more pronounced in women, and nasolabial fold was found more pronounced in men at older ages (>50&#xa0;years). Before 50's, Forehead wrinkles present a slightly higher severity in men whereas at 50's women present more severe ptosis. Crow's feet wrinkles did not show significant changes. Perceived ages were found significantly correlated with the severities of the facial signs and the perception of tiredness was associated with perceived ages in men, but not in women older than 40&#xa0;years. The gender-related perceptions from the na&#xef;ve panel in both perceived ages and tiredness showed a low discrepancy. Interestingly, as for changes in facial signs, the upper-half face seems more affected for men and lower-half face for women; after 40&#xa0;years, the na&#xef;ve panel seems more focusing on the same areas to predict a perceived age.<br><br>CONCLUSION: As compared to the previous Chinese study, the present work reveals some slight ethnical-related differences, indicating that the facial signs of the lower face play a major role in the assessment of perceived age of both genders from different ethnicity.}, }
@article {pmid32306525, year = {2020}, author = {Duscher, D and Maan, ZN and Hu, MS and Thor, D}, title = {A single-center blinded randomized clinical trial to evaluate the anti-aging effects of a novel HSF™-based skin care formulation.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {19}, number = {11}, pages = {2936-2945}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.13356}, pmid = {32306525}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//Tomorrowlabs GmbH/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; *Aging ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Rejuvenation ; Skin ; *Skin Aging ; Skin Care ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Similar to chronic wounds, skin aging is characterized by dysfunction of key cellular regulatory pathways. The hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) pathway was linked to both conditions. Recent evidence suggests that modulating this pathway can rejuvenate aged fibroblasts and improve skin regeneration. Here, we describe the application of a novel HIF stimulating factor (HSF™)-based formulation for skin rejuvenation.<br><br>METHODS: Over a period of 6&#xa0;weeks using a split-face study design, the effects on skin surface profile, skin moisture, and transepidermal water loss were determined in 32 female subjects (mean age 54, range 32-67&#xa0;years) by Fast Optical in vivo Topometry of Human Skin (FOITSHD), Corneometer, and Tewameter measurements. In addition, a photo documentation was performed for assessment by an expert panel and a survey regarding subject satisfaction was conducted.<br><br>RESULTS: No negative skin reactions of dermatological relevance were documented for the test product. A significant reduction in skin roughness could be demonstrated. The clinical evaluation of the images using a validated method confirmed significant improvement of wrinkles, in particular of fine wrinkles, lip wrinkles, and crow's feet. A significant skin moisturizing effect was detected while skin barrier function was preserved. The HSF&#x2122;-based skin care formulation resulted in a self-reported 94% satisfaction rate.<br><br>CONCLUSION: With no negative skin reactions and highly significant effects on skin roughness, wrinkles, and moisturization, the HSF&#x2122;-based skin care formulation achieved very satisfying outcomes in this clinical trial. Given the favorable results, this approach represents a promising innovation in aesthetic and regenerative medicine.}, }
@article {pmid32273542, year = {2020}, author = {Al-Sabah, R and Al-Taiar, A and Rahman, A and Shaban, L and Al-Harbi, A and Mojiminiyi, O}, title = {Season of birth and sugary beverages are predictors of Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices Scores in adolescents.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {6145}, pmid = {32273542}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Kuwait ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychology, Adolescent ; Risk Factors ; *Seasons ; Sex Factors ; Sugar-Sweetened Beverages/*adverse effects ; }, abstract = {To investigate factors associated with cognitive functioning in healthy adolescents, a school-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 1370 adolescents aged 11-16 years that were randomly selected from all governorates of Kuwait. Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM), a non-verbal test of intelligence, was used to measure cognitive functioning of the study participants. Data on predictors of cognitive functioning were collected from parents and adolescents. Weight and height of the participants were measured in a standardized manner and blood samples were tested in an accredited laboratory under strict measures of quality control. In multivariable linear regression analysis, factors that showed significant association with the SPM score were gender (p = 0.002), season of birth (p = 0.009), place of residence (p < 0.001), father's (p < 0.001) and mother's (p = 0.025) educational level, type of housing (p < 0.001), passive smoking at home (p = 0.031), sleeping hours during weekends (p = 0.017), students' educational level (p < 0.001) and the frequency of consumption of sugary drinks (p < 0.001). The link between cognitive functioning and season of birth seems to be robust in various geographical locations including the Middle East. The association between sugary drinks and cognitive functioning highlights the importance of diet independently of obesity and support efforts to reduce consumption of sugary drinks among children.}, }
@article {pmid32230117, year = {2020}, author = {Hernandes, FA}, title = {A review of the feather mite family Gabuciniidae Gaud amp; Atyeo (Acariformes: Astigmata: Pterolichoidea) of Brazil, with descriptions of eleven new species.}, journal = {Zootaxa}, volume = {4747}, number = {1}, pages = {zootaxa.4747.1.1}, doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.4747.1.1}, pmid = {32230117}, issn = {1175-5334}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bird Diseases ; Brazil ; *Mite Infestations ; *Mites ; *Passeriformes ; }, abstract = {The feather mite family Gabuciniidae currently includes 16 genera and approximately 65 described species associated with birds of nine orders, with the greatest diversity on Accipitriformes. In this study, 11 new species are described from the following hosts: Aetacarus accipiter sp. nov. from the Bicolored Hawk Accipiter bicolor (Vieillot, 1817) (Accipitriformes: Accipitridae), Capitolichus campoflicker sp. nov. from the Campo Flicker Colaptes campestris (Vieillot, 1818) (Piciformes: Picidae), Coraciacarus cabure sp. nov. from the Barred Forest-falcon Micrastur ruficollis (Vieillot, 1817) (Falconiformes: Falconidae), Coraciacarus peixefrito sp. nov. from the Pheasant Cuckoo Dromococcyx phasianellus (Spix, 1824) (Cuculiformes: Cuculidae), Gabucinia neotropica sp. nov. from the Curl-crested Jay Cyanocorax cristatellus (Temminck, 1823) (type host) and C. chrysops (Vieillot, 1818) (Passeriformes: Corvidae), Hieracolichus caboclo sp. nov. from the Savanna Hawk Buteogallus meridionalis (Latham, 1790) (Accipitriformes: Accipitridae), Hieracolichus falcon sp. nov. from the Southern Caracara Caracara plancus (Miller, 1777) (Falconiformes: Falconidae), Piciformobia adjuncta sp. nov. from the Guira Cuckoo Guira guira (Gmelin, 1788) (Cuculiformes: Cuculidae), Proaposolenidia bicolor sp. nov. from the Bicolored Hawk Accipiter bicolor (Vieillot, 1817) (Accipitriformes: Accipitridae), Proaposolenidia plumbea sp. nov. from the Plumbeous Kite Ictinia plumbea (Gmelin, 1788) (Accipitriformes: Accipitridae), and Tocolichus toco sp. nov. from the Toco Toucan Ramphastos toco Statius Müller, 1776 (Piciformes: Ramphastidae). In addition, two new combinations are proposed, Proaposolenidia ostoda (Gaud, 1983) comb. nov. and Aetacarus hirundo (Mégnin Trouessart, 1884) comb. nov., both transferred from the genus Hieracolichus. With the addition of these new species, the number of gabuciniids described from the Neotropical region has increased from 14 to 25 species. These findings indicate that Brazil is home to a large diversity of undescribed gabuciniids, which is not surprising considering the vast bird fauna of this country, and especially since most avian species from Brazil have yet to be investigated for their feather mites.}, }
@article {pmid32227316, year = {2020}, author = {Sevil-Kilimci, F and Kara, ME}, title = {Canal Flare Index in the Canine Femur Is Influenced by the Measurement Method.}, journal = {Veterinary and comparative orthopaedics and traumatology : V.C.O.T}, volume = {33}, number = {3}, pages = {198-204}, doi = {10.1055/s-0040-1701501}, pmid = {32227316}, issn = {2567-6911}, mesh = {Animals ; Body Weights and Measures/methods/veterinary ; Cadaver ; Dogs/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Female ; Femur/*anatomy &amp; histology/diagnostic imaging ; Male ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: We evaluated whether differences exist among the canal flare index (CFI) values obtained by different calculation methods in the veterinary literature.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: &#x2003;The endosteal widths were measured from radiographic images of canine cadaveric femora. Three different formulae were used to calculate the CFI. The CFILT-M was the ratio of endosteal width at the medial aspect of the lesser trochanter (LT) to the midshaft (M), while the CFILT-I was the ratio of LT to the isthmus (I). The CFIPLT-I was the ratio of endosteal width at the proximal aspect of the lesser trochanter (PLT) and the I. The widths at each level and the CFI calculation methods were compared. Using Rashmir-Raven's method, the femora were typed as stovepipe, normal and champagne fluted. The limits of agreement were also evaluated.<br><br>RESULTS: &#x2003;The endosteal width at the proximal aspect of the lesser trochanter was 12% wider than at the medial aspect and 8% wider at the midshaft than at the isthmus. The CFILT-M was less than CFILT-I and CFIPLT-I by 9 and 20%, respectively. By Rashmir-Raven's classification, the CFILT-M method provided 18% stovepipe, 79% normal and 3% champagne fluted femora. The CFILT-I method showed the stovepipe, the normal and the champagne fluted as 6, 82 and 12%, respectively. The CFIPLT-I method classified the femora either normal (55%) or champagne fluted (45%). The comparison of CFILT-M with the other methods using Bland-Altman analysis showed lower mean difference for the CFILT-I than the CFIPLT-I.<br><br>CONCLUSION: &#x2003;The level of width measurements at proximal femora might have an impact on the CFI values, likewise, preoperative planning procedures and the selection of a stem type in total hip arthroplasty.}, }
@article {pmid32220399, year = {2020}, author = {Souza, IR and Pansani, TN and Basso, FG and Hebling, J and de Souza Costa, CA}, title = {Cytotoxicity of acrylic resin-based materials used to fabricate interim crowns.}, journal = {The Journal of prosthetic dentistry}, volume = {124}, number = {1}, pages = {122.e1-122.e9}, doi = {10.1016/j.prosdent.2020.01.030}, pmid = {32220399}, issn = {1097-6841}, mesh = {*Acrylic Resins ; Composite Resins ; Computer-Aided Design ; *Crowns ; Dental Materials ; Materials Testing ; Surface Properties ; }, abstract = {STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: If the components in the acrylic resins used to fabricate interim crows are cytotoxic, they can interfere with the integrity of the adjacent periodontal tissue and the dentin-pulp complex.<br><br>PURPOSE: The purpose of this in&#xa0;vitro study was to assess the cytotoxicity of resin-based materials used to prepare interim crowns.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: The following materials were used in this study: CAR, conventional acrylic resin powder and liquid; BR, bis-acrylic resin; and PAR, pressed acrylic resin of the CAD-CAM type. Glass disks were used as the control (Co). Oral epithelial cells (NOK) were seeded on glass disks and standardized disks prepared with the resins under study. After incubation for 24 hours, the cells were analyzed for viability (Alamar Blue and Live or Dead), adhesion, and morphology (SEM and fluorescence), as well as epidermal growth factor synthesis (EGF-ELISA). The surface roughness (Ra) of test specimens was evaluated under a confocal microscope. The data were submitted to ANOVA and the Tukey HSD statistical tests (&#x3b1;=.05).<br><br>RESULTS: The highest Ra value was observed in BR in comparison with CAR, PAR, and Co (P<.05). The highest viability, adhesion, and EGF synthesis values were determined for the cells in contact with PAR (P<.001).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM)-type resin favored adhesion, metabolism, and epithelial cell proliferation, and it was therefore considered cytocompatible.}, }
@article {pmid32219010, year = {2019}, author = {Wang, Y and Shen, Y and Liu, Z and Liang, PP and Zadeh, A and Morency, LP}, title = {Words Can Shift: Dynamically Adjusting Word Representations Using Nonverbal Behaviors.}, journal = {Proceedings of the ... AAAI Conference on Artificial Intelligence. AAAI Conference on Artificial Intelligence}, volume = {33}, number = {1}, pages = {7216-7223}, pmid = {32219010}, issn = {2159-5399}, support = {R01 MH096951/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Humans convey their intentions through the usage of both verbal and nonverbal behaviors during face-to-face communication. Speaker intentions often vary dynamically depending on different nonverbal contexts, such as vocal patterns and facial expressions. As a result, when modeling human language, it is essential to not only consider the literal meaning of the words but also the nonverbal contexts in which these words appear. To better model human language, we first model expressive nonverbal representations by analyzing the fine-grained visual and acoustic patterns that occur during word segments. In addition, we seek to capture the dynamic nature of nonverbal intents by shifting word representations based on the accompanying nonverbal behaviors. To this end, we propose the Recurrent Attended Variation Embedding Network (RAVEN) that models the fine-grained structure of nonverbal subword sequences and dynamically shifts word representations based on nonverbal cues. Our proposed model achieves competitive performance on two publicly available datasets for multimodal sentiment analysis and emotion recognition. We also visualize the shifted word representations in different nonverbal contexts and summarize common patterns regarding multimodal variations of word representations.}, }
@article {pmid32208065, year = {2020}, author = {Pearman, A}, title = {Neuroticism Predicts Reasoning Performance in Young but Not Older Adults.}, journal = {Experimental aging research}, volume = {46}, number = {3}, pages = {236-243}, doi = {10.1080/0361073X.2020.1743615}, pmid = {32208065}, issn = {1096-4657}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Aging/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory/*physiology ; Memory, Short-Term ; Middle Aged ; *Neuroticism ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {Objective: This study was designed to explore age differences in the relationship of neuroticism with reasoning performance in a representative adult sample.Method: A probability sample of 242 adults (range 25-75 years; M age = 47.57 years) from the Midlife Development in the United States (MIDUS) Boston Study of Management Processes were measured on personality and cognition. Using Raven's Progressive Matrices Test as the dependent measure of reasoning, age and neuroticism were entered as independent variables into a hierarchical regression analysis with education and basic cognitive processes (processing speed and working memory) as control variables.Results: Age (younger) and neuroticism (lower) positively predicted reasoning performance. These main effects were further qualified by an age X neuroticism interaction. Younger adults low in neuroticism performed significantly better on reasoning than those high in neuroticism, whereas the relationship of neuroticism with reasoning was not significant for the middle-aged and older adults.Conclusions: Neuroticism affects reasoning performance in young adults but not older adults. Age-related improvements in emotional regulation are suggested as a mechanism for this relationship.}, }
@article {pmid32206923, year = {2020}, author = {Lambert, ML and Osvath, M}, title = {Investigating information seeking in ravens (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {671-680}, pmid = {32206923}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Cebus ; *Crows ; Information Seeking Behavior ; Macaca ; *Metacognition ; }, abstract = {Measuring the responses of non-human animals to situations of uncertainty is thought to shed light on an animal's metacognitive processes; namely, whether they monitor their own knowledge states. For example, when presented with a foraging task, great apes and macaques selectively seek information about the location of a food item when they have not seen where it was hidden, compared to when they have. We presented this same information seeking task to ravens, in which a food item was hidden in one of three containers, and subjects could either watch where the food was hidden, infer its location through visual or auditory clues, or were given no information. We found that unlike several ape species and macaques, but similar to capuchin monkeys, the ravens looked inside at least one tube on every trial, but typically only once, inside the baited tube, when they had either witnessed it being baited or could visually infer the reward's location. In contrast, subjects looked more often within trials in which they had not witnessed the baiting or were provided with auditory cues about the reward's location. Several potential explanations for these ceiling levels of looking are discussed, including how it may relate to the uncertainty faced by ravens when retrieving food caches.}, }
@article {pmid32201438, year = {2020}, author = {Gallego-Abenza, M and Loretto, MC and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Decision time modulates social foraging success in wild common ravens, Corvus corax.}, journal = {Ethology : formerly Zeitschrift fur Tierpsychologie}, volume = {126}, number = {4}, pages = {413-422}, pmid = {32201438}, issn = {0179-1613}, support = {P 29705/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; W 1262/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Social foraging provides several benefits for individuals but also bears the potential costs of higher competition. In some species, such competition arises through kleptoparasitism, that is when an animal takes food which was caught or collected by a member of its social group. Except in the context of caching, few studies have investigated how individuals avoid kleptoparasitism, which could be based on physical strength/dominance but also cognitive skills. Here, we investigated the foraging success of wild common ravens, Corvus corax, experiencing high levels of kleptoparasitism from conspecifics when snatching food from the daily feedings of captive wild boars in a game park in the Austrian Alps. Success in keeping the food depended mainly on the individuals' age class and was positively correlated with the time to make a decision in whether to fly off with food or consume it on site. While the effect of age class suggests that dominant and/or experienced individuals are better in avoiding kleptoparasitism, the effect of decision time indicates that individuals benefit from applying cognition to such decision-making, independently of age class. We discuss our findings in the context of the ecological and social intelligence hypotheses referring to the development of cognitive abilities. We conclude that investigating which factors underline kleptoparasitism avoidance is a promising scenario to test specific predictions derived from these hypotheses.}, }
@article {pmid32182841, year = {2020}, author = {Forthmann, B and Förster, N and Schütze, B and Hebbecker, K and Flessner, J and Peters, MT and Souvignier, E}, title = {How Much g Is in the Distractor? Re-Thinking Item-Analysis of Multiple-Choice Items.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {32182841}, issn = {2079-3200}, abstract = {Distractors might display discriminatory power with respect to the construct of interest (e.g., intelligence), which was shown in recent applications of nested logit models to the short-form of Raven's progressive matrices and other reasoning tests. In this vein, a simulation study was carried out to examine two effect size measures (i.e., a variant of Cohen's ω and the canonical correlation RCC) for their potential to detect distractors with ability-related discriminatory power. The simulation design was adopted to item selection scenarios relying on rather small sample sizes (e.g., N = 100 or N = 200). Both suggested effect size measures (Cohen's ω only when based on two ability groups) yielded acceptable to conservative type-I-error rates, whereas, the canonical correlation outperformed Cohen's ω in terms of empirical power. The simulation results further suggest that an effect size threshold of 0.30 is more appropriate as compared to more lenient (0.10) or stricter thresholds (0.50). The suggested item-analysis procedure is illustrated with an analysis of twelve Raven's progressive matrices items in a sample of N = 499 participants. Finally, strategies for item selection for cognitive ability tests with the goal of scaling by means of nested logit models are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid32178710, year = {2020}, author = {England, ME and Pearce-Kelly, P and Brugman, VA and King, S and Gubbins, S and Sach, F and Sanders, CJ and Masters, NJ and Denison, E and Carpenter, S}, title = {Culicoides species composition and molecular identification of host blood meals at two zoos in the UK.}, journal = {Parasites &amp; vectors}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {139}, pmid = {32178710}, issn = {1756-3305}, support = {BBS/E/I/00007037/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BBS/E/I/00007039/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BBS/E/I/00007038/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BBS/E/I/00007033/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Zoo/*blood ; Ceratopogonidae/*classification ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Insect Vectors/classification ; Male ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Culicoides biting midges are biological vectors of arboviruses including bluetongue virus (BTV), Schmallenberg virus (SBV) and African horse sickness virus (AHSV). Zoos are home to a wide range of 'at risk' exotic and native species of animals. These animals have a high value both in monetary terms, conservation significance and breeding potential. To understand the risk these viruses pose to zoo animals, it is necessary to characterise the Culicoides fauna at zoos and determine which potential vector species are feeding on which hosts.<br><br>METHODS: Light-suction traps were used at two UK zoos: the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) London Zoo (LZ) and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo (WZ). Traps were run one night each week from June 2014 to June 2015. Culicoides were morphologically identified to the species level and any blood-fed Culicoides were processed for blood-meal analysis. DNA from blood meals was extracted and amplified using previously published primers. Sequencing was then carried out to determine the host species.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 11,648 Culicoides were trapped and identified (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;5880 from ZSL WZ; n&#x2009;=&#x2009;5768 from ZSL LZ), constituting 25 different species. The six putative vectors of BTV, SBV and AHSV in northern Europe were found at both zoos and made up the majority of the total catch (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;10,701). A total of 31 host sequences were obtained from blood-fed Culicoides. Culicoides obsoletus/C. scoticus, Culicoides dewulfi, Culicoides parroti and Culicoides punctatus were found to be biting a wide range of mammals including Bactrian camels, Indian rhinoceros, Asian elephants and humans, with Culicoides obsoletus/C. scoticus also biting Darwin's rhea. The bird-biting species, Culicoides achrayi, was found to be feeding on blackbirds, blue tits, magpies and carrion crows.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: To our knowledge, this is the first study to directly confirm blood-feeding of Culicoides on exotic zoo animals in the UK and shows that they are able to utilise a wide range of exotic as well as native host species. Due to the susceptibility of some zoo animals to Culicoides-borne arboviruses, this study demonstrates that in the event of an outbreak of one of these viruses in the UK, preventative and mitigating measures would need to be taken.}, }
@article {pmid32173692, year = {2020}, author = {Hagiwara, K and Nakaya, T and Onuma, M}, title = {Characterization of Myxovirus resistance protein in birds showing different susceptibilities to highly pathogenic influenza virus.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {82}, number = {5}, pages = {619-625}, pmid = {32173692}, issn = {1347-7439}, mesh = {3T3 Cells ; Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Birds ; Cells, Cultured ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/growth &amp; development/*immunology ; Influenza in Birds/*immunology/virology ; Mice ; Myxovirus Resistance Proteins/*chemistry/genetics/*metabolism ; Protein Conformation ; RNA, Viral ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {We compared the Mx expression and anti-viral function and the 3D structure of Mx protein in four species: chicken (Gallus gallus), whooper swan (Cygnus cygnus), jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos), and rock dove (Columba livia). We observed different mortalities associated with highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) infection to understand the relationship between Mx function as an immune response factor and HPAIV proliferation in bird cells. Different levels of Mx were observed among the different bird species after virus infection. Strong Mx expression was confirmed in the rock dove and whooper swan 6 hr after viral infection. The lowest virus copy numbers were observed in rock dove. The virus infectivity was significantly reduced in the BALB/3T3 cells expressing rock dove and jungle crow Mx. These results suggested that high Mx expression and significant Mx-induced anti-viral effects might result in the rock dove primary cells having the lowest virus copy number. Comparison of the expected 3D structure of Mx protein in all four bird species demonstrated that the structure of loop L4 varied among the investigated species. It was reported that differences in amino acid sequence in loop L4 affect antiviral activity in human and mouse cells, and a significant anti-viral effect was observed in the rock dove Mx. Thus, the amino acid sequence of loop L4 in rock dove might represent relatively high anti-viral activity.}, }
@article {pmid32163947, year = {2020}, author = {Kumar, RR and Wu, X and Tsang, HK}, title = {Compact high-extinction tunable CROW filters for integrated quantum photonic circuits.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {45}, number = {6}, pages = {1289-1292}, doi = {10.1364/OL.384187}, pmid = {32163947}, issn = {1539-4794}, abstract = {We describe the use of cascaded second-order coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) tunable filters to achieve one of the highest reported measured extinction ratios of $ {\gt} {110}\;{\rm dB}$>110dB. The CROW filters were used to remove the pump photons in spontaneous four-wave mixing (SFWM) in a silicon waveguide. The SFWM generated quantum-correlated photons that could be measured after the cascaded CROW filters. The CROW filters offer a compact footprint for use in monolithic quantum photonic circuits.}, }
@article {pmid32162489, year = {2020}, author = {Wöhnke, E and Vasic, A and Raileanu, C and Holicki, CM and Tews, BA and Silaghi, C}, title = {Comparison of vector competence of Aedes vexans Green River and Culex pipiens biotype pipiens for West Nile virus lineages 1 and 2.}, journal = {Zoonoses and public health}, volume = {67}, number = {4}, pages = {416-424}, doi = {10.1111/zph.12700}, pmid = {32162489}, issn = {1863-2378}, mesh = {*Aedes ; Animals ; Chlorocebus aethiops ; *Culex ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; Mosquito Vectors/*virology ; Vero Cells ; West Nile virus/*classification/*physiology ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV), a zoonotic arbovirus, has recently established an autochthonous transmission cycle in Germany. In dead-end hosts like humans and horses the WNV infection may cause severe symptoms in the central nervous system. In nature, WNV is maintained in an enzootic transmission cycle between birds and ornithophilic mosquitoes. Bridge vector species, such as members of the Culex pipiens complex and Aedes spp., also widely distributed in Germany, might transmit WNV to other vertebrate host species. This study determined and compared the vector competence of field-collected northern-German Cx. pipiens biotype pipiens and laboratory-reared Ae. vexans Green River (GR) for WNV lineage 1 (strain: Magpie/Italy/203204) and WNV lineage 2 (strain: "Austria") under temperatures typical for northern Germany in spring/summer and autumn. For assessment of vector competence, 7- to 14-day-old female mosquitoes were offered a WNV containing blood meal via Hemotek membrane feeding system or cotton-stick feeding. After incubation at 18°C respectively 24°C for 14 days engorged female mosquitoes were salivated and dissected for determination of infection, dissemination and transmission rates by reverse transcriptase quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR). Both Ae. vexans GR and Cx. pipiens biotype pipiens were infected with both tested WNV strains and tested 14 days post-inoculation. Disseminated infections were detected only in Ae. vexans GR incubated at 18°C and in Cx. pipiens pipiens incubated at 24°C after infection with WNV lineage 1. Transmission of WNV lineage 1 was detected in Cx. pipiens pipiens incubated at 24°C. These results indicate that Cx. pipiens pipiens from Northern Germany may be involved in the transmission of WNV, also to dead-end hosts like humans and horses.}, }
@article {pmid32162454, year = {2020}, author = {Grunberger, G}, title = {Continuous glucose monitoring: Musing on our progress in memory of Dr Andrew Jay Drexler.}, journal = {Journal of diabetes}, volume = {12}, number = {10}, pages = {772-774}, doi = {10.1111/1753-0407.13032}, pmid = {32162454}, issn = {1753-0407}, mesh = {Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring/*trends ; Humans ; Wearable Electronic Devices/*trends ; }, }
@article {pmid32160191, year = {2020}, author = {Miller, R and Gruber, R and Frohnwieser, A and Schiestl, M and Jelbert, SA and Gray, RD and Boeckle, M and Taylor, AH and Clayton, NS}, title = {Decision-making flexibility in New Caledonian crows, young children and adult humans in a multi-dimensional tool-use task.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {e0219874}, pmid = {32160191}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Child, Preschool ; Cockatoos/physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; *Decision Making ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Pongo/physiology ; *Task Performance and Analysis ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The ability to make profitable decisions in natural foraging contexts may be influenced by an additional requirement of tool-use, due to increased levels of relational complexity and additional work-effort imposed by tool-use, compared with simply choosing between an immediate and delayed food item. We examined the flexibility for making the most profitable decisions in a multi-dimensional tool-use task, involving different apparatuses, tools and rewards of varying quality, in 3-5-year-old children, adult humans and tool-making New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides). We also compared our results to previous studies on habitually tool-making orangutans (Pongo abelii) and non-tool-making Goffin's cockatoos (Cacatua goffiniana). Adult humans, cockatoos and crows, but not children and orangutans, did not select a tool when it was not necessary, which was the more profitable choice in this situation. Adult humans, orangutans and cockatoos, but not crows and children, were able to refrain from selecting non-functional tools. By contrast, the birds, but not the primates tested, struggled to attend to multiple variables-where two apparatuses, two tools and two reward qualities were presented simultaneously-without extended experience. These findings indicate: (1) in a similar manner to humans and orangutans, New Caledonian crows and Goffin's cockatoos can flexibly make profitable decisions in some decision-making tool-use tasks, though the birds may struggle when tasks become more complex; (2) children and orangutans may have a bias to use tools in situations where adults and other tool-making species do not.}, }
@article {pmid32157639, year = {2020}, author = {Wirth, M and Bäuml, KT}, title = {Category labels can influence the effects of selective retrieval on nonretrieved items.}, journal = {Memory &amp; cognition}, volume = {48}, number = {3}, pages = {481-493}, pmid = {32157639}, issn = {1532-5946}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Concept Formation/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Using lists of unrelated items as study material, recent studies have shown that selective retrieval of some studied items can impair or improve recall of the nonretrieved items, depending on whether the lag between study and selective retrieval is short or long. This study examined whether the results generalize when the items are studied together with their category labels (e.g., BIRD-magpie) and the category labels are reexposed as retrieval cues at test (e.g., BIRD-m___), a procedure often used in research on the effects of selective retrieval. Two lag conditions were employed in this study: a short 1-min lag between study and selective retrieval, and a longer 15-min lag that included mental context change tasks to enhance the lag-induced contextual drift. Experiment 1 employed lists of unrelated items in the absence of any category labels and replicated both the detrimental effect (after short lag) and the beneficial effect (after long lag) of selective retrieval. Experiment 1 was identical to Experiment 1 but provided the items' category labels during both study and retrieval, and Experiment 1 was identical to Experiment 1 but employed a categorized list. In both experiments, selective retrieval impaired recall in both lag conditions, indicating a critical role of category labels for the effects of selective retrieval. The results of the three experiments are consistent with a two-factor explanation of selective retrieval and the proposal that reexposure of category labels during retrieval can reinstate study context after longer lag.}, }
@article {pmid32155318, year = {2020}, author = {Moradifard, S and Saghiri, R and Ehsani, P and Mirkhani, F and Ebrahimi-Rad, M}, title = {A preliminary computational outputs versus experimental results: Application of sTRAP, a biophysical tool for the analysis of SNPs of transcription factor-binding sites.}, journal = {Molecular genetics &amp; genomic medicine}, volume = {8}, number = {5}, pages = {e1219}, pmid = {32155318}, issn = {2324-9269}, mesh = {Collagen Type I/genetics/metabolism ; Collagen Type I, alpha 1 Chain ; Humans ; Mannose-Binding Lectin/genetics/metabolism ; Nitric Oxide Synthase Type II/genetics/metabolism ; Nucleotide Motifs ; *Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; *Promoter Regions, Genetic ; Protein Binding ; Sequence Analysis, DNA/*methods ; Software/*standards ; Transcription Factors/genetics/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In the human genome, the transcription factors (TFs) and transcription factor-binding sites (TFBSs) network has a great regulatory function in the biological pathways. Such crosstalk might be affected by the single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), which could create or disrupt a TFBS, leading to either a disease or a phenotypic defect. Many computational resources have been introduced to predict the TFs binding variations due to SNPs inside TFBSs, sTRAP being one of them.<br><br>METHODS: A literature review was performed and the experimental data for 18 TFBSs located in 12 genes was provided. The sequences of TFBS motifs were extracted using two different strategies; in the size similar with synthetic target sites used in the experimental techniques, and with 60&#xa0;bp upstream and downstream of the SNPs. The sTRAP (http://trap.molgen.mpg.de/cgi-bin/trap_two_seq_form.cgi) was applied to compute the binding affinity scores of their cognate TFs in the context of reference and mutant sequences of TFBSs. The alternative bioinformatics model used in this study was regulatory analysis of variation in enhancers (RAVEN; http://www.cisreg.ca/cgi-bin/RAVEN/a). The bioinformatics outputs of our study were compared with experimental data, electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA).<br><br>RESULTS: In 6 out of 18 TFBSs in the following genes COL1A1, Hb &#x1e09;&#x1d2a;, TF, FIX, MBL2, NOS2A, the outputs of sTRAP were inconsistent with the results of EMSA. Furthermore, no p value of the difference between the two scores of binding affinity under the wild and mutant conditions of TFBSs was presented. Nor, were any criteria for preference or selection of any of the measurements of different matrices used for the same analysis.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our preliminary study indicated some paradoxical results between sTRAP and experimental data. However, to link the data of sTRAP to the biological functions, its optimization via experimental procedures with the integration of expanded data and applying several other bioinformatics tools might be required.}, }
@article {pmid32128152, year = {2020}, author = {Klein, J and Haverkamp, PJ and Lindberg, E and Griesser, M and Eggers, S}, title = {Remotely sensed forest understory density and nest predator occurrence interact to predict suitable breeding habitat and the occurrence of a resident boreal bird species.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {10}, number = {4}, pages = {2238-2252}, pmid = {32128152}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Habitat suitability models (HSM) based on remotely sensed data are useful tools in conservation work. However, they typically use species occurrence data rather than robust demographic variables, and their predictive power is rarely evaluated. These shortcomings can result in misleading guidance for conservation. Here, we develop and evaluate a HSM based on correlates of long-term breeding success of an open nest building boreal forest bird, the Siberian jay. In our study site in northern Sweden, nest failure of this permanent resident species is driven mainly by visually hunting corvids that are associated with human settlements. Parents rely on understory nesting cover as protection against these predators. Accordingly, our HSM includes a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) based metric of understory density around the nest and the distance of the nest to the closest human settlement to predict breeding success. It reveals that a high understory density 15-80 m around nests is associated with increased breeding success in territories close to settlements (<1.5 km). Farther away from human settlements breeding success is highest at nest sites with a more open understory providing a favorable warmer microclimate. We validated this HSM by comparing the predicted breeding success with landscape-wide census data on Siberian jay occurrence. The correlation between breeding success and occurrence was strong up to 40 km around the study site. However, the HSM appears to overestimate breeding success in regions with a milder climate and therefore higher corvid numbers. Our findings suggest that maintaining patches of small diameter trees may provide a cost-effective way to restore the breeding habitat for Siberian jays up to 1.5 km from human settlements. This distance is expected to increase in the warmer, southern, and coastal range of the Siberian jay where the presence of other corvids is to a lesser extent restricted to settlements.}, }
@article {pmid32118175, year = {2020}, author = {Zhao, Y and Cui, Y and Xiong, Z and Jin, J and Liu, Z and Dong, R and Hu, J}, title = {Machine Learning-Based Prediction of Crystal Systems and Space Groups from Inorganic Materials Compositions.}, journal = {ACS omega}, volume = {5}, number = {7}, pages = {3596-3606}, pmid = {32118175}, issn = {2470-1343}, abstract = {Structural information of materials such as the crystal systems and space groups are highly useful for analyzing their physical properties. However, the enormous composition space of materials makes experimental X-ray diffraction (XRD) or first-principle-based structure determination methods infeasible for large-scale material screening in the composition space. Herein, we propose and evaluate machine-learning algorithms for determining the structure type of materials, given only their compositions. We couple random forest (RF) and multiple layer perceptron (MLP) neural network models with three types of features: Magpie, atom vector, and one-hot encoding (atom frequency) for the crystal system and space group prediction of materials. Four types of models for predicting crystal systems and space groups are proposed, trained, and evaluated including one-versus-all binary classifiers, multiclass classifiers, polymorphism predictors, and multilabel classifiers. The synthetic minority over-sampling technique (SMOTE) is conducted to mitigate the effects of imbalanced data sets. Our results demonstrate that RF with Magpie features generally outperforms other algorithms for binary and multiclass prediction of crystal systems and space groups, while MLP with atom frequency features is the best one for structural polymorphism prediction. For multilabel prediction, MLP with atom frequency and binary relevance with Magpie models are the best for predicting crystal systems and space groups, respectively. Our analysis of the related descriptors identifies a few key contributing features for structural-type prediction such as electronegativity, covalent radius, and Mendeleev number. Our work thus paves a way for fast composition-based structural screening of inorganic materials via predicted material structural properties.}, }
@article {pmid32116601, year = {2020}, author = {Zakharov, I and Tabueva, A and Adamovich, T and Kovas, Y and Malykh, S}, title = {Alpha Band Resting-State EEG Connectivity Is Associated With Non-verbal Intelligence.}, journal = {Frontiers in human neuroscience}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {10}, pmid = {32116601}, issn = {1662-5161}, abstract = {The aim of the present study was to investigate whether EEG resting state connectivity correlates with intelligence. One-hundred and sixty five participants took part in the study. Six minutes of eyes closed EEG resting state was recorded for each participant. Graph theoretical connectivity metrics were calculated separately for two well-established synchronization measures [weighted Phase Lag Index (wPLI) and Imaginary Coherence (iMCOH)] and for sensor- and source EEG space. Non-verbal intelligence was measured with Raven's Progressive Matrices. In line with the Neural Efficiency Hypothesis, path lengths characteristics of the brain networks (Average and Characteristic Path lengths, Diameter and Closeness Centrality) within alpha band range were significantly correlated with non-verbal intelligence for sensor space but no for source space. According to our results, variance in non-verbal intelligence measure can be mainly explained by the graph metrics built from the networks that include both weak and strong connections between the nodes.}, }
@article {pmid32095315, year = {2020}, author = {Tringali, A and Sherer, DL and Cosgrove, J and Bowman, R}, title = {Life history stage explains behavior in a social network before and during the early breeding season in a cooperatively breeding bird.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {e8302}, pmid = {32095315}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {In species with stage-structured populations selection pressures may vary between different life history stages and result in stage-specific behaviors. We use life history stage to explain variation in the pre and early breeding season social behavior of a cooperatively breeding bird, the Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) using social network analysis. Life history stage explains much of the variation we observed in social network position. These differences are consistent with nearly 50 years of natural history observations and generally conform to a priori predictions about how individuals in different stages should behave to maximize their individual fitness. Where the results from the social network analysis differ from the a priori predictions suggest that social interactions between members of different groups are more important for breeders than previously thought. Our results emphasize the importance of accounting for life history stage in studies of individual social behavior.}, }
@article {pmid32094457, year = {2020}, author = {Fongaro, E and Rose, J}, title = {Crows control working memory before and after stimulus encoding.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {3253}, pmid = {32094457}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Attention ; *Behavior, Animal ; Biological Evolution ; Crows/*physiology ; Cues ; Fixation, Ocular ; Male ; *Memory, Short-Term ; *Reaction Time ; }, abstract = {The capacity of working memory is limited and this limit is comparable in crows and primates. To maximize this resource, humans use attention to select only relevant information for maintenance. Interestingly, attention-cues are effective not only before but also after the presentation of to-be-remembered stimuli, highlighting control mechanisms beyond sensory selection. Here we explore if crows are also capable of these forms of control over working memory. Two crows (Corvus corone) were trained to memorize two, four or six visual stimuli. Comparable to our previous results, the crows showed a decrease in performance with increasing working memory load. Using attention cues, we indicated the critical stimulus on a given trial. These cues were either presented before (pre-cue) or after sample-presentation (retro-cue). On other trials no cue was given as to which stimulus was critical. We found that both pre- and retro-cues enhance the performance of the birds. These results show that crows, like humans, can utilize attention to select relevant stimuli for maintenance in working memory. Importantly, crows can also utilize cues to make the most of their working memory capacity even after the stimuli are already held in working memory. This strongly implies that crows can engage in efficient control over working memory.}, }
@article {pmid32092484, year = {2020}, author = {Sekiguchi, T and Ishibashi, S and Sasame, J and Mukae, JI and Noda, K and Tanaka, H and Yamamoto, K and Takemoto, Y and Kumagai, J and Yokota, T}, title = {Recurrent stroke due to quasi-moyamoya disease associated with POEMS syndrome: An autopsy case.}, journal = {Journal of the neurological sciences}, volume = {412}, number = {}, pages = {116738}, doi = {10.1016/j.jns.2020.116738}, pmid = {32092484}, issn = {1878-5883}, mesh = {Autopsy ; Cerebral Infarction ; Humans ; *Moyamoya Disease ; *POEMS Syndrome/complications/diagnosis ; }, }
@article {pmid32090898, year = {2020}, author = {Zhao, Y and Feng, B and Lee, J and Lu, N and Pierce, DM}, title = {A multi-layered model of human skin elucidates mechanisms of wrinkling in the forehead.}, journal = {Journal of the mechanical behavior of biomedical materials}, volume = {105}, number = {}, pages = {103694}, doi = {10.1016/j.jmbbm.2020.103694}, pmid = {32090898}, issn = {1878-0180}, mesh = {Dermis ; Epidermis ; Forehead ; Humans ; Skin ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {Skin wrinkling, especially in the facial area, is a prominent sign of aging and is a growing area of research aimed at developing cosmetics and dermatological treatments. To better understand and treat undesirable skin wrinkles, it is vitally important to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of skin wrinkling, a largely mechanical process. Human skin, a multi-layer composite, has six mechanically distinct layers: from the outermost inward they are the stratum corneum, viable epidermis, dermal-epidermal-junction, papillary dermis, reticular dermis, and hypodermis. To better address the through-thickness hierarchy, and the development of wrinkling within this complicated hierarchy, we established a six-layered model of human skin realized with finite element modeling, by leveraging available morphological and biomechanical data on human skin of the forehead. Exercising our new model we aimed to quantify the effects of three potential mechanisms of wrinkle formation: (1) skin compression due to muscle contraction (dynamic wrinkles); (2) age-related volumetric tissue loss (static wrinkles); and (3) the combined effects of both mechanisms. Since hydration of the stratum corneum significantly affects its stiffness we also aimed to quantify the influence its hydration with these three potential mechanisms of wrinkle formation. Our six-layered skin model, combined with the proposed wrinkling mechanisms, successfully predicts the formation of dynamic and static wrinkles in the forehead consistent with the experimental literature. We observed three wrinkling modes in the forehead where the deepest wrinkles could reach to the reticular dermis. With further refinement our new six-layered model of human skin can be applied to study other region-specific wrinkle types such as the "crow's feet" and the nasolabial folds.}, }
@article {pmid32083585, year = {2020}, author = {Silva, D and Cardoso, S and Guerreiro, M and Maroco, J and Mendes, T and Alves, L and Nogueira, J and Baldeiras, I and Santana, I and de Mendonça, A}, title = {Neuropsychological Contribution to Predict Conversion to Dementia in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment Due to Alzheimer's Disease.}, journal = {Journal of Alzheimer's disease : JAD}, volume = {74}, number = {3}, pages = {785-796}, doi = {10.3233/JAD-191133}, pmid = {32083585}, issn = {1875-8908}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Alzheimer Disease/diagnosis/*psychology ; Biomarkers ; Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnosis/*psychology ; Cohort Studies ; Disease Progression ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Kaplan-Meier Estimate ; Male ; Memory, Episodic ; Mental Processes ; Mental Status and Dementia Tests ; Middle Aged ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Psychomotor Performance ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) confirmed by biomarkers allows the patient to make important life decisions. However, doubt about the fleetness of symptoms progression and future cognitive decline remains. Neuropsychological measures were extensively studied in prediction of time to conversion to dementia for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients in the absence of biomarker information. Similar neuropsychological measures might also be useful to predict the progression to dementia in patients with MCI due to AD.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To study the contribution of neuropsychological measures to predict time to conversion to dementia in patients with MCI due to AD.<br><br>METHODS: Patients with MCI due to AD were enrolled from a clinical cohort and the effect of neuropsychological performance on time to conversion to dementia was analyzed.<br><br>RESULTS: At baseline, converters scored lower than non-converters at measures of verbal initiative, non-verbal reasoning, and episodic memory. The test of non-verbal reasoning was the only statistically significant predictor in a multivariate Cox regression model. A decrease of one standard deviation was associated with 29% of increase in the risk of conversion to dementia. Approximately 50% of patients with more than one standard deviation below the mean in the z score of that test had converted to dementia after 3 years of follow-up.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In MCI due to AD, lower performance in a test of non-verbal reasoning was associated with time to conversion to dementia. This test, that reveals little decline in the earlier phases of AD, appears to convey important information concerning conversion to dementia.}, }
@article {pmid32079555, year = {2020}, author = {Naveed, S and Venäläinen, T and Eloranta, AM and Erkkilä, AT and Jalkanen, H and Lindi, V and Lakka, TA and Haapala, EA}, title = {Associations of dietary carbohydrate and fatty acid intakes with cognition among children.}, journal = {Public health nutrition}, volume = {23}, number = {9}, pages = {1657-1663}, pmid = {32079555}, issn = {1475-2727}, mesh = {Male ; Female ; Humans ; Child ; *Fatty Acids ; *Dietary Carbohydrates ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Linoleic Acid ; Cognition ; Dietary Fats ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate the cross-sectional associations of dietary carbohydrate and fatty acid intakes with cognition in mid-childhood.<br><br>DESIGN: Dietary carbohydrate and fatty acid intakes were assessed using 4-d food records, and cognition was evaluated using the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) score. The cross-sectional associations of dietary carbohydrate and fatty acid intakes with cognition were investigated using linear regression analyses adjusted for age, sex, body fat percentage, household income, parental education and daily energy intake.<br><br>SETTING: The baseline examinations of the Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children study.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: A population-based sample of 487 children (250 boys, 237 girls) aged 6-8 years living in the city of Kuopio, Finland.<br><br>RESULTS: A higher dietary intake of fructose (standardised regression coefficient, &#x3b2; = 0&#xb7;24, P < 0&#xb7;001), total fibre (&#x3b2; = 0&#xb7;16, P = 0&#xb7;02) and soluble fibre (&#x3b2; = 0&#xb7;15, P = 0&#xb7;02) was associated with a higher RCPM score in boys. Other dietary carbohydrates and fatty acids, including total carbohydrates, glucose, sucrose, starch, insoluble fibre, total fat, SFAs, MUFAs, PUFAs, palmitic acid (C16), stearic acid (C18), linoleic acid (C18:2), &#x3b1;-linoleic acid (C18:3), arachidonic acid (C20:4), EPA (C20:5n-3) and DHA (C22:6n-6), were not associated with the RCPM score in boys. Dietary carbohydrates or fatty acids were not associated with the RCPM score in girls.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Higher dietary fructose and fibre intakes were associated with better cognition in boys, but not in girls. Dietary fatty acids were not related to cognition in boys or in girls.}, }
@article {pmid32073673, year = {2020}, author = {Dutta Chowdhury, S and Ghosh, T}, title = {Serum iron deficiency was associated with lower cognitive development in the children of the Santal tribe of West Bengal.}, journal = {Acta paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)}, volume = {109}, number = {10}, pages = {2131-2136}, doi = {10.1111/apa.15239}, pmid = {32073673}, issn = {1651-2227}, mesh = {*Anemia, Iron-Deficiency ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition ; Female ; Ferritins ; Humans ; Iron ; Male ; Transferrin ; }, abstract = {AIM: Poor cognitive scores and low serum iron have been reported among chronically undernourished children from the Santal tribe, West Bengal. Our aim was to investigate the association between iron status and non-verbal cognitive development.<br><br>METHODS: We randomly selected 170 children (52.9% boys) aged 5-12&#xa0;years from the Purulia district of West Bengal during 2007-2008 and assessed their iron status: haemoglobin concentration, serum concentration of iron, ferritin, transferrin, total iron-binding capacity and transferrin saturation. Their non-verbal cognitive development was assessed using the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: The haemoglobin concentration, serum iron, serum ferritin and transferrin saturation levels of the 27 children with an intellectual deficit and the 32 who had a below average intelligence quotient (IQ) were significantly lower (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;.05) than the 65 children with an average IQ. A large number of boys (55.6%) and girls (41.7%) who have an intellectual deficit had stage III iron depletion. The cognitive scores of children with stage II and III iron depletion were significantly lower (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;.05) than those with a normal IQ.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The iron depletion stage was associated with the severity of non-verbal cognitive impairment and serum ferritin appeared to be a sensitive biomarker for predicting non-verbal cognitive development.}, }
@article {pmid32072216, year = {2020}, author = {Wang, J and Su, Y and Zhang, J and Guo, P and Huang, C and Song, B}, title = {A Randomized, Controlled Study Comparing Subbrow Blepharoplasty and Subbrow Blepharoplasty Combined with Periorbital Muscle Manipulation for Periorbital Aging Rejuvenation in Asians.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {44}, number = {3}, pages = {788-796}, pmid = {32072216}, issn = {1432-5241}, mesh = {Aging ; Asian People ; *Blepharoplasty ; Eyelids/surgery ; Humans ; Prospective Studies ; Rejuvenation ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Improving periorbital aging is, currently, of great concern. The previous literature has reported some surgical methods for periorbital aging. The purpose of this study was to compare subbrow blepharoplasty (SBB) with subbrow blepharoplasty combined with periorbital muscle manipulation (SBB-pm) with regard to improving periorbital aging.<br><br>METHODS: A prospective, randomized, controlled study was designed to evaluate and compare the effects of two different surgical techniques on upper lid relaxation, brow shape and periorbital wrinkles. Patients were divided into two groups. Group 1 underwent resection of excess skin; group 2 underwent a modified technique that involved resection of an elliptical island of skin, separation of the corrugator supercilii muscle and dissection of the orbicularis oculi muscle, followed by suturing it to the orbital periosteum and cross-fixation with itself. The upper eyelid and eyebrow height, periorbital wrinkle score and patient satisfaction were measured preoperatively and postoperatively.<br><br>RESULTS: This study included 70 patients (140 eyes). At 1&#xa0;month, 3&#xa0;months, 6&#xa0;months and 12&#xa0;months after surgery, group 2 was superior to group 1 with regard to the improvement in upper eyelid relaxation at the medial limbus, middle pupil and lateral canthus. The eyebrow assumed a low and flat appearance in group 1. The eyebrow showed a low and flat appearance and then returned to the preoperative level in group 2. When comparing the two surgical techniques, the authors found statistically significant differences in regard to changes in crow's feet and glabellar frown lines. Two patients in group 2 experienced forehead numbness after surgery, which resolved by the 6-month follow-up. Patients in group 2 were significantly more satisfied with their surgery than patients in group 1.<br><br>CONCLUSION: SBB-pm is more effective than SBB for improving upper eyelid relaxation and preventing secondary brow ptosis after surgery as well as for alleviating periorbital wrinkles, although it is accompanied by transient forehead numbness.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE II: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.}, }
@article {pmid32069366, year = {2020}, author = {Knief, U and Bossu, CM and Wolf, JBW}, title = {Extra-pair paternity as a strategy to reduce the costs of heterospecific reproduction? Insights from the crow hybrid zone.}, journal = {Journal of evolutionary biology}, volume = {33}, number = {5}, pages = {727-733}, doi = {10.1111/jeb.13607}, pmid = {32069366}, issn = {1420-9101}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*genetics ; Europe ; Female ; *Hybridization, Genetic ; Male ; Paternity ; *Sexual Behavior, Animal ; }, abstract = {Within hybrid zones of socially monogamous species, the number of mating opportunities with a conspecific can be limited. As a consequence, individuals may mate with a heterospecific (social) partner despite possible fitness costs to their hybrid offspring. Extra-pair copulations with a conspecific may thus arise as a possible post hoc strategy to reduce the costs of hybridization. We here assessed the rate of extra-pair paternity in the hybrid zone between all-black carrion crows (Corvus (corone) corone) and grey hooded crows (C. (c.) cornix) and tested whether extra-pair paternity (EPP) was more likely in broods where parents differed in plumage colour. The proportion of broods with at least one extra-pair offspring and the proportion of extra-pair offspring were low overall (6.98% and 2.90%, respectively) with no evidence of hybrid broods having higher EPP rates than purebred nests.}, }
@article {pmid32057691, year = {2020}, author = {Gregory, PA and Seuthprachack, W and Austin, Z}, title = {Community pharmacists' perceptions of leadership.}, journal = {Research in social &amp; administrative pharmacy : RSAP}, volume = {16}, number = {12}, pages = {1737-1745}, doi = {10.1016/j.sapharm.2020.02.001}, pmid = {32057691}, issn = {1934-8150}, mesh = {Attitude of Health Personnel ; *Community Pharmacy Services ; Humans ; Leadership ; Ontario ; Perception ; *Pharmacists ; Professional Role ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Concerns have been expressed regarding a "leadership crisis" in pharmacy. Previous research has identified potential barriers to pharmacists assuming leadership roles and signposted opportunities for further exploration of leadership issues in the profession related to psychological comfort with use of power.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: This study explored community pharmacists' perceptions of the effectiveness and impact of power leveraged by formal and informal pharmacy leaders.<br><br>METHODS: A theoretical framework based on Raven's 7 Sources of Power model was used to guide this research. Semi-structured interviews with community pharmacists in Ontario, Canada were undertaken, and data were coded and categorized using this framework.<br><br>FINDINGS: 29 pharmacists participated in this study. Participants in this study highlighted over-reliance on charismatic power, underuse of rewards and punishments, and general lack of effectiveness or impact in use of informational, expertise, positional, and relational powers amongst pharmacy leaders. Opportunities to broaden the power repertoire of pharmacy leaders, including leadership education, were identified as potentially valuable for individual leaders and the profession as a whole.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Effectively leveraging power is important for leaders. This study has highlighted patterns of power use amongst community pharmacy leaders and identified opportunities for further research in this area and for continuing professional development for leaders.}, }
@article {pmid32050797, year = {2020}, author = {Stockbridge, MD and Newman, RS and Zukowski, A and Slawson, KK and Doran, A and Ratner, NB}, title = {Language profiles in children with concussion.}, journal = {Brain injury}, volume = {34}, number = {4}, pages = {567-574}, doi = {10.1080/02699052.2020.1725836}, pmid = {32050797}, issn = {1362-301X}, mesh = {Attention ; *Brain Concussion/complications/diagnosis ; Child ; Humans ; *Language ; Memory, Short-Term ; }, abstract = {Primary Objective: Inform the production of a screening tool for language in children with concussion. The authors predicted that children with a recent concussion would perform the cognitive-linguistic tasks more poorly, but some tasks may be more sensitive to concussion than others.Methods &amp; Procedures: 22 elementary school aged children within 30 days of a concussion and age-matched peers with no history of concussion were assessed on a battery of novel language and cognitive-linguistic tasks. They also completed an auditory attention task and the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices.Main Outcomes &amp; Results: Children with a recent concussion scored significantly more poorly in novel tasks targeting category identification, grammaticality judgments, and recognizing target words presented in a short story than their age-matched peers with no such injury history. All observed effects had moderate sizes. Inclusion of these three tasks significantly improved prediction of concussion status over symptom score when controlling for the age of participants.Conclusions: The finding supports continued investigation of targeted linguistic tasks in children following concussion, particularly in the domains of semantic and syntactic access and verbal working memory. Future work developing brief language assessments specifically targeting children in this age range may provide a valuable addition to the existing tools for identifying the effects of concussion.}, }
@article {pmid32050472, year = {2020}, author = {Tryjanowski, P and Hetman, M and Czechowski, P and Grzywaczewski, G and Sklenicka, P and Ziemblińska, K and Sparks, TH}, title = {Birds Drinking Alcohol: Species and Relationship with People. A Review of Information from Scientific Literature and Social Media.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {32050472}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {Ethanol is a natural by-product of the fermentation process of fruit sugars and is occasionally consumed by fruit-eating and tree sap drinking birds. Information on this form of alcohol consumption features in the scientific literature. However, as pets or as wild animals living close to humans in urban habitats, birds have increasing possibilities to consume alcohol from beverages, such as beer, wine or spirits. Some observations have been discussed in a light-hearted manner in mass media and social media, but without any generalization of why some bird species drink the beverages intentionally or unintentionally provided by humans. To check which species and in what circumstances birds drink alcohol and how this is evaluated by humans, we reviewed the scientific literature and analysed videos from YouTube. In total we found and analysed 8 scientific papers and 179 YouTube videos, from which we identified at least 55 species (in some cases not all birds were identified to species level), 11 in the scientific literature and 47 in videos. The distribution of these species over the avian phylogenetic tree suggests that the origin of this convergent behaviour is mainly by human influence. The two data sources differed in the species covered. Videos typically presented interactions of birds with human-provided alcoholic beverages, and were dominated by two groups of intelligent birds: parrots and corvids. The popularity of YouTube videos for a particular species was positively correlated with the general popularity of the species as measured by the number of hits (results listed) on Google. Human responses to the videos were generally very positive and we analysed how the responses were influenced by factors derived from viewing the videos. Moreover, YouTube videos also provide information on at least 47 new bird species not previously mentioned as using alcohol, and our results suggest that parrots in particular can be potentially good candidates for future restricted laboratory studies on the effect of ethanol on birds and their relationship with humans.}, }
@article {pmid32039246, year = {2019}, author = {Thomas-Bachli, AL and Pearl, DL and Parmley, EJ and Berke, O}, title = {The Influence of Sociodemographic Factors on the Engagement of Citizens in the Detection of Dead Corvids During the Emergence of West Nile Virus in Ontario, Canada.}, journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {483}, pmid = {32039246}, issn = {2297-1769}, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNv) was introduced into North America in 1999, and by 2002 was identified in most regions of Ontario, Canada. Surveillance of WNv included testing of corvids found dead and reported by citizens across Ontario, which at the time was a novel citizen science application for disease surveillance. While this surveillance program was successful for timely identification of WNv as it emerged and spread across the province, it is important to consider the influence of non-disease factors on surveillance data collected by the public. The objective of this study was to examine associations between rates of citizen phone reports of dead corvids and sociodemographic factors within the geographic areas where the reports were obtained. The data were grouped by forward sortation area (FSA), a geographical area based upon postal codes, which was linked with census data. Associations between the weekly rate of citizen reports and FSA-level sociodemographic factors were measured using multilevel negative binomial models. There were 12,295 phone call reports of dead corvids made by citizens in 83.3% of Ontario FSAs. Factors associated with the weekly rate of phone reports included the proportion of high-rise housing, the proportion of households with children, the proportion of seniors in the population, the proportion of citizens with no knowledge of either official language and the latitude of the FSA. There were higher rates of citizen phone reports in FSAs with <80% high-rise housing and greater proportions of households with children. A positive and negative association in the rate of calls with the proportion of seniors and latitude of the FSA, respectively, were moderated by the proportion of the population with knowledge of official language(s). Understanding the sociodemographic characteristics associated with citizen reporting rates of sentinels for disease surveillance can be used to inform advanced cluster detection methods such as applying the spatial scan test with normal distribution on residuals from a regression model to reduce confounding. In citizen-derived data collected for disease surveillance, this type of approach can be helpful to improve the interpretation of cluster detection results beyond what is expected.}, }
@article {pmid32038192, year = {2020}, author = {Luo, W and Zhou, R}, title = {Can Working Memory Task-Related EEG Biomarkers Measure Fluid Intelligence and Predict Academic Achievement in Healthy Children?.}, journal = {Frontiers in behavioral neuroscience}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {2}, pmid = {32038192}, issn = {1662-5153}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Educational psychology research has linked fluid intelligence (Gf) with working memory (WM), but it is still dubious whether electroencephalography (EEG) markers robustly indicate Gf. This study addresses this issue and notes the relationship between WM task-related EEG markers with Gf and academic performance.<br><br>METHOD: A sample of 62 healthy children between the ages of 9 and 12 years was selected to perform three tasks: (1) Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) test to assess Gf; (2) 2-back task to assess central executive system (CES); and (3) delayed match-to-sample task to assess short-term storage. These subjects were divided into high ability (HA) and low ability (LA) groups based on their RSPM scores. Support vector machine and logistic regression were used to train the EEG candidate indicators. A multiple regression was used to predict children's academic performance using P3 amplitude, P2 latency, and &#x3b8;-ERS.<br><br>RESULTS: Behavioral results demonstrated that the correct rate of the HA group is higher than that of the LA group. The event-related potential results of the 2-back task showed that the P3 amplitude of the HA group was relatively larger and that the P2 latency was shorter than that observed in the LA group. For the delayed matching to sample task, the &#x3b8;-ERS of the LA group was higher than that of the HA group. However, the area under the curve of these three indicators for Gf was < 0.75 for each and < 0.85 for the combined indicators. In predicting academic performance, only P3 amplitude showed a significant effect.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These results challenge previous findings, which reported that P3, P2, or theta power might be used in standard psychometric tests to assess an individual's intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid32037534, year = {2020}, author = {Boonekamp, JJ and Bauch, C and Verhulst, S}, title = {Experimentally increased brood size accelerates actuarial senescence and increases subsequent reproductive effort in a wild bird population.}, journal = {The Journal of animal ecology}, volume = {89}, number = {6}, pages = {1395-1407}, pmid = {32037534}, issn = {1365-2656}, mesh = {Aging ; Animals ; Animals, Wild ; *Birds ; Longevity ; *Reproduction ; }, abstract = {The assumption that reproductive effort decreases somatic state, accelerating ageing, is central to our understanding of life-history variation. Maximal reproductive effort early in life is predicted to be maladaptive by accelerating ageing disproportionally, decreasing fitness. Optimality theory predicts that reproductive effort is restrained early in life to balance the fitness contribution of reproduction against the survival cost induced by the reproductive effort. When adaptive, the level of reproductive restraint is predicted to be inversely linked to the remaining life expectancy, potentially resulting in a terminal effort in the last period of reproduction. Experimental tests of the reproductive restraint hypothesis require manipulation of somatic state and subsequent investigation of reproductive effort and residual life span. To our knowledge the available evidence remains inconclusive, and hence reproductive restraint remains to be demonstrated. We modulated somatic state through a lifelong brood size manipulation in wild jackdaws and measured its consequences for age-dependent mortality and reproductive success. The assumption that lifelong increased brood size reduced somatic state was supported: Birds rearing enlarged broods showed subsequent increased rate of actuarial senescence, resulting in reduced residual life span. The treatment induced a reproductive response in later seasons: Egg volume and nestling survival were higher in subsequent seasons in the increased versus reduced broods' treatment group. We detected these increases in egg volume and nestling survival despite the expectation that in the absence of a change in reproductive effort, the reduced somatic state indicated by the increased mortality rate would result in lower reproductive output. This leads us to conclude that the higher reproductive success we observed was the result of higher reproductive effort. Our findings show that reproductive effort negatively covaries with remaining life expectancy, supporting optimality theory and confirming reproductive restraint as a key factor underpinning life-history variation.}, }
@article {pmid32035868, year = {2020}, author = {Swift, KN and Marzluff, JM and Templeton, CN and Shimizu, T and Cross, DJ}, title = {Brain activity underlying American crow processing of encounters with dead conspecifics.}, journal = {Behavioural brain research}, volume = {385}, number = {}, pages = {112546}, pmid = {32035868}, issn = {1872-7549}, support = {S10 OD017980/OD/NIH HHS/United States ; S10 RR024689/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation ; Amygdala/diagnostic imaging/physiology ; Animals ; Brain/*diagnostic imaging/physiology ; Corpus Striatum/diagnostic imaging/physiology ; Crows ; *Death ; Decision Making ; Fear/*physiology ; Fluorodeoxyglucose F18 ; Functional Neuroimaging ; Hippocampus/diagnostic imaging/physiology ; Learning/*physiology ; Photic Stimulation ; Positron-Emission Tomography ; Radiopharmaceuticals ; Septum of Brain/diagnostic imaging/physiology ; *Social Behavior ; Thanatology ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Animals utilize a variety of auditory and visual cues to navigate the landscape of fear. For some species, including corvids, dead conspecifics appear to act as one such visual cue of danger, and prompt alarm calling by attending conspecifics. Which brain regions mediate responses to dead conspecifics, and how this compares to other threats, has so far only been speculative. Using 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) we contrast the metabolic response to visual and auditory cues associated with a dead conspecific among five a priori selected regions in the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) brain: the hippocampus, nidopallium caudolaterale, striatum, amygdala, and the septum. Using a repeated-measures, fully balanced approach, we exposed crows to four stimuli: a dead conspecific, a dead song sparrow (Melospiza melodia), conspecific alarm calls given in response to a dead crow, and conspecific food begging calls. We find that in response to observations of a dead crow, crows show significant activity in areas associated with higher-order decision-making (NCL), but not in areas associated with social behaviors or fear learning. We do not find strong differences in activation between hearing alarm calls and food begging calls; both activate the NCL. Lastly, repeated exposures to negative stimuli had a marginal effect on later increasing the subjects' brain activity in response to control stimuli, suggesting that crows might quickly learn from negative experiences.}, }
@article {pmid32034818, year = {2020}, author = {Slager, DL and Epperly, KL and Ha, RR and Rohwer, S and Wood, C and Van Hemert, C and Klicka, J}, title = {Cryptic and extensive hybridization between ancient lineages of American crows.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {29}, number = {5}, pages = {956-969}, doi = {10.1111/mec.15377}, pmid = {32034818}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; British Columbia ; Cell Nucleus/genetics ; Crows/*genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; Evolution, Molecular ; Gene Flow ; *Genetics, Population ; Haplotypes ; *Hybridization, Genetic ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Washington ; }, abstract = {Most species and therefore most hybrid zones have historically been defined using phenotypic characters. However, both speciation and hybridization can occur with negligible morphological differentiation. Recently developed genomic tools provide the means to better understand cryptic speciation and hybridization. The Northwestern Crow (Corvus caurinus) and American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) are continuously distributed sister taxa that lack reliable traditional characters for identification. In this first population genomic study of Northwestern and American crows, we use genomic SNPs (nuDNA) and mtDNA to investigate the degree of genetic differentiation between these crows and the extent to which they may hybridize. Our results indicate that American and Northwestern crows have distinct evolutionary histories, supported by two nuDNA ancestry clusters and two 1.1%-divergent mtDNA clades dating to the late Pleistocene, when glacial advances may have isolated crow populations in separate refugia. We document extensive hybridization, with geographic overlap of mtDNA clades and admixture of nuDNA across >900 km of western Washington and western British Columbia. This broad hybrid zone consists of late-generation hybrids and backcrosses, but not recent (e.g., F1) hybrids. Nuclear DNA and mtDNA clines had concordant widths and were both centred in southwestern British Columbia, farther north than previously postulated. Overall, our results suggest a history of reticulate evolution in American and Northwestern crows, perhaps due to recurring neutral expansion(s) from Pleistocene glacial refugia followed by lineage fusion(s). However, we do not rule out a contributing role for more recent potential drivers of hybridization, such as expansion into human-modified habitats.}, }
@article {pmid32033073, year = {2020}, author = {Bürkner, PC}, title = {Analysing Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM-LS) with Bayesian Item Response Models.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {32033073}, issn = {2079-3200}, abstract = {Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) test and related matrix-based tests are widely applied measures of cognitive ability. Using Bayesian Item Response Theory (IRT) models, I reanalyzed data of an SPM short form proposed by Myszkowski and Storme (2018) and, at the same time, illustrate the application of these models. Results indicate that a three-parameter logistic (3PL) model is sufficient to describe participants dichotomous responses (correct vs. incorrect) while persons' ability parameters are quite robust across IRT models of varying complexity. These conclusions are in line with the original results of Myszkowski and Storme (2018). Using Bayesian as opposed to frequentist IRT models offered advantages in the estimation of more complex (i.e., 3-4PL) IRT models and provided more sensible and robust uncertainty estimates.}, }
@article {pmid32024887, year = {2020}, author = {Segura, A and Jimenez, J and Acevedo, P}, title = {Predation of young tortoises by ravens: the effect of habitat structure on tortoise detectability and abundance.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {1874}, pmid = {32024887}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {*Animal Distribution ; Animals ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; Crows/*physiology ; Forests ; Morocco ; Population Density ; Population Dynamics ; *Predatory Behavior ; Turtles/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The predation of young tortoise is considered a major cause of mortality for many tortoise species. The predation by common ravens has been identified as being responsible for significant decreases in tortoise populations. Mediterranean spur-thighed tortoise hatchlings and juveniles in Maamora forest (Morocco) were studied in order to describe the size/age class predation of common ravens on young tortoises and infer the drivers of predation risk and population abundance. The results showed a high level of predation on young tortoises (<75 mm carapace length) attributed to ravens in areas with low vegetation cover, representing 100% of the cases of mortality (n = 147), but it was moderate in covered areas (n = 19), representing 12-27%. The population structure of living juveniles differed significantly between covered and uncovered areas, thus suggesting that raven predation might modify juvenile population structure. Finally, N-mixture models showed a positive relationship between (i) bare cover and tortoise detectability that is only evidenced when the plot is far from a perch and (ii) population abundance and shrub species-richness, being higher in uncovered areas. Our results improve the knowledge on predation and survival on this critical stage in life, which is crucial for the conservation of the Mediterranean spur-thighed tortoise.}, }
@article {pmid32022629, year = {2021}, author = {O'Connor, AM and Campbell, KL and Mahy, CEV}, title = {Younger and older adults' prospective memory: the role of delay task difficulty.}, journal = {Neuropsychology, development, and cognition. Section B, Aging, neuropsychology and cognition}, volume = {28}, number = {2}, pages = {184-200}, doi = {10.1080/13825585.2020.1724866}, pmid = {32022629}, issn = {1744-4128}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; *Intention ; Male ; *Memory, Episodic ; Middle Aged ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Thinking/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {There is mixed evidence on the impact of delay task difficulty on prospective memory (PM) performance and little research has examined this among older adults. The present study examined younger (N = 60) and older (N = 57) adults' prospective memory (PM) performance after completing an easy or difficult Raven's matrices task. To assess whether delay difficulty impacted how often participants thought about their PM intention, participants were asked to report on what they thought about during the delay task itself and retrospectively after all tasks were completed. Younger adults outperformed older adults on the PM task; however, delay task difficulty had no impact PM for either age group. Reports of thinking about the intention during the delay task differed by age group depending whether they were online or retrospective, however, overall greater reports of thinking about the intention was positively associated with PM performance.}, }
@article {pmid32022303, year = {2020}, author = {Slabe, VA and Anderson, JT and Cooper, J and Miller, TA and Brown, B and Wrona, A and Ortiz, P and Buchweitz, J and McRuer, D and Dominguez-Villegas, E and Behmke, S and Katzner, T}, title = {Feeding Ecology Drives Lead Exposure of Facultative and Obligate Avian Scavengers in the Eastern United States.}, journal = {Environmental toxicology and chemistry}, volume = {39}, number = {4}, pages = {882-892}, doi = {10.1002/etc.4680}, pmid = {32022303}, issn = {1552-8618}, support = {//Virginia Department of Inland Game and Fisheries/International ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*chemically induced ; *Diet ; Ecology ; Environmental Exposure/*analysis ; Environmental Pollutants/analysis/*toxicity ; Female ; Lead/analysis/*toxicity ; Lead Poisoning/*veterinary ; Liver/chemistry ; Seasons ; Species Specificity ; United States ; }, abstract = {Lead poisoning of scavenging birds is a global issue. However, the drivers of lead exposure of avian scavengers have been understood from the perspective of individual species, not cross-taxa assemblages. We analyzed blood (n = 285) and liver (n = 226) lead concentrations of 5 facultative (American crows [Corvus brachyrhynchos], bald eagles [Haliaeetus leucocephalus], golden eagles [Aquila chrysaetos], red-shouldered hawks [Buteo lineatus], and red-tailed hawks [Buteo jamaicensis]) and 2 obligate (black vultures [Coragyps atratus] and turkey vultures [Cathartes aura] avian scavenger species to identify lead exposure patterns. Species and age were significant (α < 0.05) predictors of blood lead exposure of facultative scavengers; species, but not age, was a significant predictor of their liver lead exposure. We detected temporal variations in lead concentrations of facultative scavengers (blood: median = 4.41 µg/dL in spring and summer vs 13.08 µg/dL in autumn and winter; p = <0.001; liver: 0.32 ppm in spring and summer vs median = 4.25 ppm in autumn and winter; p = <0.001). At the species level, we detected between-period differences in blood lead concentrations of bald eagles (p = 0.01) and red-shouldered hawks during the winter (p = 0.001). During summer, obligate scavengers had higher liver lead concentrations than did facultative scavengers (median = 1.76 ppm vs 0.22 ppm; p = <0.001). These data suggest that the feeding ecology of avian scavengers is a determinant of the degree to which they are lead exposed, and they highlight the importance of dietary and behavioral variation in determining lead exposure. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:882-892. © 2020 SETAC.}, }
@article {pmid32020608, year = {2020}, author = {von Eugen, K and Tabrik, S and Güntürkün, O and Ströckens, F}, title = {A comparative analysis of the dopaminergic innervation of the executive caudal nidopallium in pigeon, chicken, zebra finch, and carrion crow.}, journal = {The Journal of comparative neurology}, volume = {528}, number = {17}, pages = {2929-2955}, doi = {10.1002/cne.24878}, pmid = {32020608}, issn = {1096-9861}, mesh = {Animals ; Chickens ; Columbidae ; Crows ; Dopaminergic Neurons/*physiology ; Finches ; Prefrontal Cortex/*cytology/*physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Despite the long, separate evolutionary history of birds and mammals, both lineages developed a rich behavioral repertoire of remarkably similar executive control generated by distinctly different brains. The seat for executive functioning in birds is the nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL) and the mammalian equivalent is known as the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Both are densely innervated by dopaminergic fibers, and are an integration center of sensory input and motor output. Whereas the variation of the PFC has been well documented in different mammalian orders, we know very little about the NCL across the avian clade. In order to investigate whether this structure adheres to species-specific variations, this study aimed to describe the trajectory of the NCL in pigeon, chicken, carrion crow and zebra finch. We employed immunohistochemistry to map dopaminergic innervation, and executed a Gallyas stain to visualize the dorsal arcopallial tract that runs between the NCL and the arcopallium. Our analysis showed that whereas the trajectory of the NCL in the chicken is highly comparable to the pigeon, the two Passeriformes show a strikingly different pattern. In both carrion crow and zebra finch, we identified four different subareas of high dopaminergic innervation that span the entire caudal forebrain. Based on their sensory input, motor output, and involvement in dopamine-related cognitive control of the delineated areas here, we propose that at least three morphologically different subareas constitute the NCL in these songbirds. Thus, our study shows that comparable to the PFC in mammals, the NCL in birds varies considerably across species.}, }
@article {pmid32019934, year = {2020}, author = {Ditz, HM and Nieder, A}, title = {Format-dependent and format-independent representation of sequential and simultaneous numerosity in the crow endbrain.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {686}, pmid = {32019934}, issn = {2041-1723}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Male ; Mathematical Concepts ; Neurons/physiology ; Telencephalon/*physiology ; Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Humans' symbolic counting skills are built on a primordial ability to approximately estimate the number of items, or numerosity. To date it is debated whether numerosities presented in categorically different formats, that is as temporal sequences versus spatial arrays, are represented abstractly in the brain. To address this issue, we identified the behavioral characteristics and neuronal codes for sequential and simultaneous number formats in crows. We find a format-dependent representation by distinct groups of selective neurons during the sensory encoding stage. However, an abstract and format-independent numerosity code emerges once the encoding phase is completed and numerosities needed to be memorized. These results suggest a successive two-stage code for categorically different number formats and help to reconcile conflicting findings observed in psychophysics and brain imaging.}, }
@article {pmid32013539, year = {2020}, author = {Soda, K and Tomioka, Y and Usui, T and Ozaki, H and Yamaguchi, T and Ito, T}, title = {Pathogenicity of H5 highly pathogenic avian influenza virus in rooks (Corvus frugilegus).}, journal = {Avian pathology : journal of the W.V.P.A}, volume = {49}, number = {3}, pages = {261-267}, doi = {10.1080/03079457.2020.1724876}, pmid = {32013539}, issn = {1465-3338}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/*pathogenicity ; Influenza in Birds/*virology ; Virus Shedding ; }, abstract = {Rooks (Corvus frugilegus) are considered migratory crows in Japan. Some rooks share a wintering site in the Izumi plain in Kagoshima Prefecture with hooded cranes (Grus monacha) and white-necked cranes (Grus vipio), which are designated as "endangered" in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), caused by H5 subtype viruses, has recently been reported in these crane species in Japan, in conjunction with a massive decrease in their population. In the present study, the pathogenicity of HPAI virus was assessed in rooks to evaluate the likelihood that they are a source of infections in other bird species. One of four rooks intranasally inoculated with A/mandarin duck/Miyazaki/22M807-1/2011 (H5N1) died at 10 days post-inoculation (d.p.i.). The other three rooks exhibited seroconversion but no clinical signs. All the rooks had shed virus by the oral route at <10[3] 50% egg infectious dose/ml until 7 d.p.i. Virus was also recovered from multiple tissues of the rook that succumbed to the infection. These results suggest that rooks are susceptible to infection with H5 HPAI viruses, leading to prolonged viral shedding. The rooks shed the virus at low titres however, indicating that they are likely to function as transmission vectors in wintering bird flocks. The rooks exhibited clear antibody responses against the H5 HPAI virus, and thus serological surveillance of them in the field should be helpful for assessing viral pervasion into the habitats of crane species.}, }
@article {pmid32003106, year = {2020}, author = {Smith, OM and Snyder, WE and Owen, JP}, title = {Are we overestimating risk of enteric pathogen spillover from wild birds to humans?.}, journal = {Biological reviews of the Cambridge Philosophical Society}, volume = {95}, number = {3}, pages = {652-679}, pmid = {32003106}, issn = {1469-185X}, mesh = {Animal Migration ; Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Bacterial Infections/epidemiology/microbiology/transmission/*veterinary ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/microbiology/*transmission ; Birds ; Disease Reservoirs/microbiology/veterinary ; Humans ; Livestock ; Prevalence ; Regression Analysis ; Risk Factors ; Virulence ; }, abstract = {Enteric illnesses remain the second largest source of communicable diseases worldwide, and wild birds are suspected sources for human infection. This has led to efforts to reduce pathogen spillover through deterrence of wildlife and removal of wildlife habitat, particularly within farming systems, which can compromise conservation efforts and the ecosystem services wild birds provide. Further, Salmonella spp. are a significant cause of avian mortality, leading to additional conservation concerns. Despite numerous studies of enteric bacteria in wild birds and policies to discourage birds from food systems, we lack a comprehensive understanding of wild bird involvement in transmission of enteric bacteria to humans. Here, we propose a framework for understanding spillover of enteric pathogens from wild birds to humans, which includes pathogen acquisition, reservoir competence and bacterial shedding, contact with people and food, and pathogen survival in the environment. We place the literature into this framework to identify important knowledge gaps. Second, we conduct a meta-analysis of prevalence data for three human enteric pathogens, Campylobacter spp., E. coli, and Salmonella spp., in 431 North American breeding bird species. Our literature review revealed that only 3% of studies addressed the complete system of pathogen transmission. In our meta-analysis, we found a Campylobacter spp. prevalence of 27% across wild birds, while prevalence estimates of pathogenic E. coli (20%) and Salmonella spp. (6.4%) were lower. There was significant bias in which bird species have been tested, with most studies focusing on a small number of taxa that are common near people (e.g. European starlings Sturnus vulgaris and rock pigeons Columba livia) or commonly in contact with human waste (e.g. gulls). No pathogen prevalence data were available for 65% of North American breeding bird species, including many commonly in contact with humans (e.g. black-billed magpie Pica hudsonia and great blue heron Ardea herodias), and our metadata suggest that some under-studied species, taxonomic groups, and guilds may represent equivalent or greater risk to human infection than heavily studied species. We conclude that current data do not provide sufficient information to determine the likelihood of enteric pathogen spillover from wild birds to humans and thus preclude management solutions. The primary focus in the literature on pathogen prevalence likely overestimates the probability of enteric pathogen spillover from wild birds to humans because a pathogen must survive long enough at an infectious dose and be a strain that is able to colonize humans to cause infection. We propose that future research should focus on the large number of under-studied species commonly in contact with people and food production and demonstrate shedding of bacterial strains pathogenic to humans into the environment where people may contact them. Finally, studies assessing the duration and intensity of bacterial shedding and survival of bacteria in the environment in bird faeces will help provide crucial missing information necessary to calculate spillover probability. Addressing these essential knowledge gaps will support policy to reduce enteric pathogen spillover to humans and enhance bird conservation efforts that are currently undermined by unsupported fears of pathogen spillover from wild birds.}, }
@article {pmid32002147, year = {2019}, author = {Söderlund, R and Skarin, H and Börjesson, S and Sannö, A and Jernberg, T and Aspán, A and Ågren, EO and Hansson, I}, title = {Prevalence and genomic characteristics of zoonotic gastro-intestinal pathogens and ESBL/pAmpC producing Enterobacteriaceae among Swedish corvid birds.}, journal = {Infection ecology &amp; epidemiology}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {1701399}, pmid = {32002147}, issn = {2000-8686}, abstract = {Introduction: Wild birds pose a potential threat to animal and human health by spreading infectious diseases. In the present study, we studied the occurrence of bacterial zoonotic pathogens as well as enterobacteria with transferrable antimicrobial resistance genes among Swedish corvids. Materials and methods: Intestines from 66 jackdaws, crows, rooks and magpies from the vicinity of livestock farms at 14 locations in 7 counties were analysed by direct culture or PCR screening followed by culture. Isolates were investigated by whole-genome sequencing. Results and discussion: Campylobacter jejuni were detected in 82% and Yersinia in 3% of the birds. ESBL-producing E. coli were found in one sample (2%) and carried bla CTX-M-55. No Enterobacteriaceae with transferable carbapenem resistance were identified. No Salmonella or E. coli O157:H7 were found, but PCR analysis for enterohaemorrhagic E. coli virulence genes revealed 35% positive samples for intimin, 9% for verotoxin 1 and 17% for verotoxin 2. C. jejuni isolates from corvids were compared to previously published isolates from Swedish sources by multi-locus sequence typing based on genome sequences. All corvid C. jejuni isolates formed a cluster, intermingled with human and chicken isolates. Our results indicate that C. jejuni is ubiquitous among Swedish corvid birds, with sporadic transmission to poultry and humans.}, }
@article {pmid31999962, year = {2020}, author = {Paszulewicz, J and Wolski, P and Gajdek, M}, title = {Is laterality adaptive? Pitfalls in disentangling the laterality-performance relationship.}, journal = {Cortex; a journal devoted to the study of the nervous system and behavior}, volume = {125}, number = {}, pages = {175-189}, doi = {10.1016/j.cortex.2019.11.019}, pmid = {31999962}, issn = {1973-8102}, mesh = {*Brain ; *Functional Laterality ; Hand ; Humans ; Mathematics ; }, abstract = {Unlike non-human animal studies that have progressively demonstrated the advantages of being asymmetrical at an individual, group and population level, human studies show a quite inconsistent picture. Specifically, it is hardly clear if and how the strength of lateralization that an individual is equipped with relates to their cognitive performance. While some of these inconsistencies can be attributed to procedural and conceptual differences, the issue is aggravated by the fact that the intrinsic mathematical interdependence of the measures of laterality and performance produces spurious correlations that can be mistaken for evidence of an adaptive advantage of asymmetry. Leask and Crow [Leask, S. J., &amp; Crow, T. J. (1997), How far does the brain lateralize?: an unbiased method for determining the optimum degree of hemispheric specialization. Neuropsychologia, 35(10), 1381-1387] devised a method of overcoming this problem that has been subsequently used in several large-sample studies investigating the asymmetry-performance relationship. In our paper we show that the original Leask and Crow method and its later variants fall victim to inherent nonlinear dependencies and produce artifacts. By applying the Leask and Crow method to random data and with mathematical analysis, we demonstrate that what has been believed to describe the true asymmetry-performance relation in fact only reflects the idiosyncrasies of the method itself. We think that the approach taken by Leask in his later paper [Leask, S. (2003), Principal curve analysis avoids assumptions of dependence between measures of hand skill. Laterality, 8(4), 307-316. doi:10.1080/13576500342000004] might be preferable.}, }
@article {pmid31993982, year = {2020}, author = {Goto, K and Watanabe, S}, title = {The whole is equal to the sum of its parts: Pigeons (Columba livia) and crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) do not perceive emergent configurations.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {48}, number = {1}, pages = {53-65}, pmid = {31993982}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Animals ; *Columbidae ; *Crows ; Discrimination Learning ; Humans ; Pan troglodytes ; Reaction Time ; }, abstract = {We previously demonstrated that chimpanzees, like humans, showed better accuracy and faster response time in discriminating visual patterns when the patterns were presented in redundant and uninformative contexts than when they were presented alone. In the present study, we examined the effect of redundant context on pattern discrimination in pigeons (Columba livia) and large-billed crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) using the same task and stimuli as those used in our previous study on chimpanzees. Birds were trained to search for an odd target among homogenous distractors. Each stimulus was presented in one of three ways: (1) alone, (2) with identical context that resulted in emergent configuration to chimpanzees (congruent context), or (3) with identical context that did not result in emergent configuration to chimpanzees (incongruent context). In contrast to the facilitative effect of congruent contexts we previously reported in chimpanzees, the same contexts disrupted target localization performance in both pigeons and crows. These results imply that birds, unlike chimpanzees, do not perceive emergent configurations.}, }
@article {pmid31990840, year = {2020}, author = {Stilp, E}, title = {Crow.}, journal = {JAAPA : official journal of the American Academy of Physician Assistants}, volume = {33}, number = {2}, pages = {1}, doi = {10.1097/01.JAA.0000651780.30353.9a}, pmid = {31990840}, issn = {1547-1896}, mesh = {*Death ; Family/*psychology ; Female ; Friends/*psychology ; *Grief ; Humans ; Male ; }, }
@article {pmid31986065, year = {2020}, author = {González, JE and Barquinero, JF and Holladay, BA and Di Giorgio, M and Higueras, M}, title = {Uncertainty calculation methods in dose assessment for dicentric chromosome assay.}, journal = {International journal of radiation biology}, volume = {96}, number = {5}, pages = {606-613}, doi = {10.1080/09553002.2020.1721599}, pmid = {31986065}, issn = {1362-3095}, mesh = {Bayes Theorem ; Calibration ; Chromosome Aberrations/*radiation effects ; Computer Simulation ; Humans ; Poisson Distribution ; *Radiation Dosage ; *Uncertainty ; }, abstract = {Purpose: To present the impact in coverage of different methods for Poisson confidence intervals and the impact in dose coverage of different uncertainty factors. A detailed explanation of the uncertainty sources in the Bayesian method is also presented.Materials and methods: The exact coverage of uncertainty Poisson confidence intervals and the dose uncertainty interval coverage were performed by simulations using R-based scripts.Results: The Poisson exact calibration interval via the Modified Crow and Gardner method resulted in coverage quite close to the nominal level of confidence; additionally, the method retains the shortest property of Crow and Gardner, and gains the property of a lower limit strictly increasing in the mean of dicentrics. The unlimited simultaneous calibration interval seems to be the method of choice to preserve the coverage at 95% under parametric and nonparametric conditions but is a conservative method. When samples came from a Poisson distribution, the ISO propagation of errors and Bayesian approaches seem to be the closest to the 95% coverage.Conclusions: The Modified Crow and Gardner method should be preferred over the Garwood method for Poisson exact confidence intervals. The unlimited simultaneous calibration interval did not lose its property to preserve the coverage at 95% applying a regression coverage factor of value 2.02 at the point of doses studied in the simulation.}, }
@article {pmid31985169, year = {2020}, author = {Silleresi, S and Prévost, P and Zebib, R and Bonnet-Brilhault, F and Conte, D and Tuller, L}, title = {Identifying Language and Cognitive Profiles in Children With ASD via a Cluster Analysis Exploration: Implications for the New ICD-11.}, journal = {Autism research : official journal of the International Society for Autism Research}, volume = {13}, number = {7}, pages = {1155-1167}, doi = {10.1002/aur.2268}, pmid = {31985169}, issn = {1939-3806}, mesh = {*Autism Spectrum Disorder/complications ; Child ; Cluster Analysis ; Cognition ; Humans ; *International Classification of Diseases ; Language ; }, abstract = {The new version of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) mentions the existence of four different profiles in the verbal part of the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), describing them as combinations of either spared or impaired functional language and intellectual abilities. The aim of the present study was to put ASD heterogeneity to the forefront by exploring whether clear profiles related to language and intellectual abilities emerge when investigation is extended to the entire spectrum, focusing on verbal children. Our study proposed a systematic investigation of both language (specifically, structural language abilities) and intellectual abilities (specifically, nonverbal cognitive abilities) in 51 6- to 12-year-old verbal children with ASD based on explicitly motivated measures. For structural language abilities, sentence repetition and nonword repetition tasks were selected; for nonverbal cognitive abilities, we chose Raven's Progressive Matrices, as well as Matrix Reasoning and Block Design from the Wechsler Scales. An integrative approach based on cluster analyses revealed five distinct profiles. Among these five profiles, all four logically possible combinations of structural language and nonverbal abilities mentioned in the ICD-11 were detected. Three profiles emerged among children with normal language abilities and two emerged among language-impaired children. Crucially, the existence of discrepant profiles of abilities suggests that children with ASD can display impaired language in presence of spared nonverbal intelligence or spared language in the presence of impaired nonverbal intelligence, reinforcing the hypothesis of the existence of a separate language module in the brain. Autism Res 2020, 13: 1155-1167. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY: The present work put Autism Spectrum Disorder heterogeneity to the forefront by exploring whether clear profiles related to language and cognitive abilities emerge when investigation is extended to the entire spectrum (focusing on verbal children). The use of explicitly motivated measures of both language and cognitive abilities and of an unsupervised machine learning approach, the cluster analysis, (a) confirmed the existence of all four logically possible profiles evoked in the new ICD-11, (b) evoked the existence of (at least) a fifth profile of language/cognitive abilities, and (c) reinforced the hypothesis of a language module in the brain.}, }
@article {pmid31985100, year = {2020}, author = {Flament, F and Francois, G and Seyrek, I and Saint-Leger, D}, title = {Age-related changes to characteristics of the human eyes in women from six different ethnicities.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {26}, number = {4}, pages = {520-528}, doi = {10.1111/srt.12824}, pmid = {31985100}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Asian People ; Ethnicity ; *Eye/anatomy &amp; histology ; Eyelids/anatomy &amp; histology ; Female ; Humans ; Photography ; *Skin Aging/ethnology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: To describe some morphological characteristics of the eyes of women of 6 different ethnicities and ages.<br><br>MATERIAL &amp; METHODS: Standard digital photographs of 3600 women of different ethnicities and ages were taken for evaluating the effects of some makeup products (eyeliners, mascaras, eyelids makeup, etc) through a before/after comparison. Photographs corresponding to pre-applications offered opportunity to quantify, through image analysis, some features of the human eyes (height, length, ellipticity, horizontality, etc) for recording their possible variations linked to ethnicities and/or age.<br><br>RESULTS: Although some minor differences between ethnicities were found (inter-pupillary distance and inner canthal distance), most eyes criteria among the 11 recorded were comparable (height and length of the eyes, ellipticity, etc). The somewhat low variability of the latter more reflects individual morphologies, at comparable ages. Asian subjects significantly differ by a much more oblique orientation of their main axis versus the horizontal inter-pupillary line. In all ethnicities, the skin aging process was found significantly altering i) the height of the eyes and ii) their orientation. Whereas the decrease of height likely results from a sagging of the upper eyelid, the decrease of orientation in all ethnicities (more marked among Asian women) possibly results from a sagging of the outer corner of the eyes. Whether this sagging may be related to the progressive outcome of crow's feet wrinkles is a plausible hypothesis.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The present work is an original and complementary approach to the skin aging process prone at modifying some characteristics of women eyes of different ethnicities.}, }
@article {pmid31984462, year = {2020}, author = {Eid, EM and Galal, TM and Sewelam, NA and Talha, NI and Abdallah, SM}, title = {Phytoremediation of heavy metals by four aquatic macrophytes and their potential use as contamination indicators: a comparative assessment.}, journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international}, volume = {27}, number = {11}, pages = {12138-12151}, pmid = {31984462}, issn = {1614-7499}, support = {R.G.P. 1/94/40//the Deanship of Scientific Research at King Khalid University/ ; }, mesh = {Biodegradation, Environmental ; Egypt ; *Eichhornia ; Metals, Heavy/*analysis ; Water Pollutants, Chemical/*analysis ; }, abstract = {The present study estimated the ability of four aquatic macrophytes (Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms, Ludwigia stolonifera (Guill. &amp; Perr.) P.H. Raven, Echinochloa stagnina (Retz.) P. Beauv. and Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud.) to accumulate Cd, Ni and Pb and their use for indicating and phytoremediating these metals in contaminated wetlands. Three sites at five locations in the Kitchener Drain in Gharbia and Kafr El-Sheikh Governorates (Egypt) were selected for plant, water and sediment sampling. The water in the Kitchener Drain was polluted with Cd, while Pb and Ni were far below the maximum level of Pb and Ni in the irrigation water. In comparison to the other species, P. australis accumulated the highest concentrations of Cd and Ni, while E. crassipes accumulated the highest concentration of Pb in its tissues. The four species had bioaccumulation factors (BAFs) greater than one, while their translocation factors (TFs) were less than 1 for most heavy metals, except Cd in the leaf and stem of E. stagnina and L. stolonifera, respectively, and Ni in the stem and leaf of E. stagnina. The BAF and TF results indicated that the studied species are suitable for phytostabilizing the studied heavy metals, except Ni in E. stagnina and Cd in L. stolonifera, which are suitable for phytoextracting these metals. Significant positive correlations were found between the investigated heavy metals in the water or sediment and the plant tissues. Their high BAFs, with significant proportional correlations, supported the potential of these species to serve as bioindicators and biomonitors of heavy metals in general and in the investigated metals specifically.}, }
@article {pmid31972269, year = {2020}, author = {Kombiah, S and Kumar, M and Murugkar, HV and Nagarajan, S and Tosh, C and Senthil Kumar, D and Rajukumar, K and Gautam, S and Singh, R and Karikalan, M and Sharma, AK and Singh, VP}, title = {Experimental pathology of two highly pathogenic H5N1 viruses isolated from crows in BALB/c mice.}, journal = {Microbial pathogenesis}, volume = {141}, number = {}, pages = {103984}, doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2020.103984}, pmid = {31972269}, issn = {1096-1208}, mesh = {Animals ; Biopsy ; Crows ; Disease Susceptibility ; Histocytochemistry ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/classification/isolation &amp; purification/*pathogenicity ; Influenza in Birds ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred BALB C ; Orthomyxoviridae Infections/pathology/*virology ; RNA, Viral ; Reassortant Viruses/genetics ; Viral Load ; Virus Replication ; }, abstract = {In this study, we assessed the pathogenicity of two H5N1 viruses isolated from crows in mice. Eighteen 6-8 weeks BALB/c mice each were intranasally inoculated with 10[6] EID50/ml of H5N1 viruses A/crow/India/03CA04/2015 (H9N2-PB2 reassortant H5N1) and A/crow/India/02CA01/2012 (Non-reassortant H5N1). The infected mice showed dullness, weight loss and ruffled fur coat. Histopathological examination of lungs showed severe congestion, haemorrhage, thrombus, fibrinous exudate in perivascular area, interstitial septal thickening, bronchiolitis and alveolitis leading to severe pneumonic changes and these lesions were less pronounced in reassortant virus infected mice. Viral replication was demonstrated in nasal mucosa, lungs, trachea and brain in both the groups. Brain, lung, nasal mucosa and trachea showed significantly higher viral RNA copies and presence of antigen in immunohistochemistry in both the groups. This study concludes that both the crow viruses caused morbidity and mortality in mice and the viruses were phenotypically highly virulent in mice. The H5N1 viruses isolated from synanthropes pose a serious public health concern and should be monitored continuously for their human spill-over.}, }
@article {pmid31967425, year = {2019}, author = {MacDonald, AM and Gibson, DJ and Barta, JR and Poulson, R and Brown, JD and Allison, AB and Nemeth, NM}, title = {Bayesian Phylogenetic Analysis of Avipoxviruses from North American Wild Birds Demonstrates New Insights into Host Specificity and Interspecies Transmission.}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {63}, number = {3}, pages = {427-432}, doi = {10.1637/12023-010619-Reg.1}, pmid = {31967425}, issn = {1938-4351}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Avipoxvirus ; Bayes Theorem ; Bird Diseases/*transmission/virology ; *Birds ; Canada ; *Host Specificity ; Phylogeny ; Poxviridae Infections/transmission/*veterinary/virology ; United States ; United States Virgin Islands ; }, abstract = {Avian pox is commonly diagnosed in a variety of North American wild and domestic birds, yet little is known about the evolutionary relationships among the causative poxviruses. This study aimed to determine the phylogenetic relationships among isolates identified in different avian host species to better characterize the host range of specific viral strains and compare the genetic variability within and between viral clades. Skin lesions grossly and microscopically consistent with poxvirus infection from 82 birds collected in Canada, the United States, and the U.S. Virgin Islands were included in this study. A total of 12 avian species were represented; the most common species sampled were wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo), mourning doves (Zenaida macroura), and American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos). Poxvirus samples from these birds were genotyped using PCR that targeted the 4b core protein gene followed by amplicon sequencing. Bayesian phylogenetic analyses of these viruses, in conjunction with publicly available sequences, representing avipoxvirus strains from six continents revealed statistically significant monophyletic clades based on genetic distances of sequences within and between observed clades. Genetic variation within the fowlpox clade was low compared to the canarypox clade. Host and geographic origins of viral isolates revealed overall clustering of viral strains within avian species, with a few exceptions. No genetic differences were observed between viruses from Canada and the United States within individual species. These results are novel in their characterization and comparison of the phylogenetic relationships of poxvirus isolates in wild bird species from North America. Further, we provide new data on the level of host specificity and specific strains circulating in North America.}, }
@article {pmid31960162, year = {2020}, author = {Dike, IC and Onwurah, CN and Uzodinma, U and Onwurah, IN}, title = {Evaluation of Pb concentrations in selected vegetables and portable drinking water, and intelligent quotients of school children in Ishiagu-a Pb mining community: health risk assessment using predictive modelling.}, journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment}, volume = {192}, number = {2}, pages = {126}, pmid = {31960162}, issn = {1573-2959}, mesh = {Agriculture ; Child ; Cities ; Crops, Agricultural ; Drinking Water/analysis/chemistry ; Environmental Exposure/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Environmental Monitoring ; Female ; Food Contamination/analysis ; Humans ; Lead/*analysis ; Male ; Metals, Heavy/analysis ; Mining ; Risk Assessment ; Soil Pollutants/*analysis ; Vegetables/*chemistry ; }, abstract = {This study evaluates the concentrations of lead (Pb) in 6 selected vegetables and drinking water samples taken from an agricultural/mining town Ishiagu. This evaluation is important because these vegetables and water are major gateway of lead exposure through ingestion, especially children in the Pb mining environment. Pb at even very low concentrations has been shown to have adverse effect on developing brain and hence children's intellectual ability. The impact of lead-contaminated food/water intake on the cognitive function was focused on school children whose parents have lived in the Pb mining town for over 25 years before they were born. Non-invasive, "target risk quotient" (TRQ) methodology, based on the principle of predictive toxicology was adopted for our analysis. Samples of these vegetables harvested in July and August 2015, and water taken from homes at 4 different villages in Ishiagu town and neighbouring community Akaeze (control), were subjected to appropriate chemical treatment/digestion procedures and the concentrations of Pb determined using AA-700 Shimadzu model atomic absorption spectrophotometer. From 642 structured questionnaire administered to the teachers/children, the daily vegetable ingestion rates for each vegetable (mg/child/day) and estimated daily intakes (EDI) of lead were obtained. The results show that the concentrations of Pb in water samples and the 6 vegetables harvested from the lead mining town vary as distances increase from the mining sites while the total target hazard quotients (TTHQs) for the vegetable crops were greater than one (˃ 1). The cognitive functions of 160 school children (aged 6-8 years), sampled from 265 families based on their meeting the criteria for distances away from the mining site, were evaluated using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices and psychometrics. The data generated were analysed using (SPSS) version 21.0 and results expressed as mean ± standard deviation of intelligent quotient (IQ). Students' t tests for independent samples were used to compare the IQ results for children in the lead mining area and non-mining area. A model based on predictive toxicology paradigm which can show a relationship between concentrations of lead in vegetables/water and cognitive function was developed. This model shows that there is a positive correlation between total lead concentrations in vegetables/water and children's cognitive function.}, }
@article {pmid31953130, year = {2020}, author = {Dutour, M and Ridley, AR}, title = {Females sing more often and at higher frequencies than males in Australian magpies.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {172}, number = {}, pages = {104045}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2020.104045}, pmid = {31953130}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; *Sex Characteristics ; Territoriality ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Birdsong is a particularly useful model for animal communication studies. However, current knowledge is derived mainly from the study of male song, and is therefore incomplete. Here, we investigated whether singing behaviour differs between sexes in the cooperatively breeding Western Australian magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen dorsalis). This subspecies lives in territorial groups, and in our population there is a female-biased sex ratio, which may lead to a high level of female-female competition for males. Observations of 94 magpies (54 females, 40 males) revealed that females sang more often than males. As bird song is a sexually multidimensional signal, we also studied amplitude and structure of the main territorial high-amplitude song in magpie; the carol. We found that females sing at the same amplitude as males, but that male and female carols exhibit differences in frequency. These results highlight the importance of studying female song and may change our perception regarding the evolution of sex-specific traits, given the primary focus on male singing as a sexually selected trait in the literature to date. The next step is to discover additional species in which females sing more than males in order to improve our currently incomplete understanding of the evolution of bird song.}, }
@article {pmid31941921, year = {2020}, author = {Vernouillet, A and Kelly, DM}, title = {Individual exploratory responses are not repeatable across time or context for four species of food-storing corvid.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {394}, pmid = {31941921}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {4944-2017//Gouvernement du Canada | Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (Conseil de Recherches en Sciences Naturelles et en G&#xe9;nie du Canada)/International ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Discrimination, Psychological ; *Environment ; *Exploratory Behavior ; *Feeding Behavior ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Social Behavior ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Exploration is among one of the most studied of animal personality traits (i.e., individual-level behavioural responses repeatable across time and contexts). However, not all species show clear evidence of this personality trait, and this is particularly so for members of the Corvidae family. We assessed the exploratory behaviour of four food-caching corvid species: pinyon jays (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus), Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana), California scrub jays (Aphelocoma californica), and black-billed magpies (Pica hudsonia). Contextual repeatability was assessed through examining behavioural measures during the Novel Environment task and the Novel Object task, whereas temporal repeatability was assessed by examining changes in these measures over repeated trials. Our results suggest that, for corvids, an individual's exploratory behaviour was not repeatable across contexts or over time. Hence, we found no evidence that exploration constitutes a personality trait for these species of corvid. We did find differences in exploratory behaviour, at a species level, that may be explained by relative reliance on cached food.}, }
@article {pmid31938533, year = {2019}, author = {Kövér, L and Lengyel, S and Takenaka, M and Kirchmeir, A and Uhl, F and Miller, R and Schwab, C}, title = {Why do zoos attract crows? A comparative study from Europe and Asia.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {9}, number = {24}, pages = {14465-14475}, pmid = {31938533}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Crows have successfully colonized many cities, and urban zoos have been important in this process. To evaluate why zoos attract crows, we quantified crow numbers and behavior in three zoos in Europe (Debrecen, Edinburgh, Vienna) and one in Asia (Sapporo). Data were collected in 445 surveys over 297 days in summer 2014 and winter 2014-2015. We found that crow numbers were highest in Vienna, intermediate in Debrecen and Edinburgh and lowest in Sapporo, increased significantly from summer to winter (Debrecen, Edinburgh, Vienna), and from mornings to afternoons (Debrecen, Sapporo, Vienna), and were higher in sunny weather than in cloudy weather with precipitation and when visitor numbers were low (Debrecen, Vienna). The crows' use of natural food was highest in Vienna, intermediate in Edinburgh and Sapporo, and low in Debrecen. The use of anthropogenic food was high in Debrecen and Sapporo, where the availability of open grassy areas typically used by crows for natural foraging was low. In Sapporo, food availability was more limited than in other zoos, resulting in strong territoriality and few crows in summer, which decreased further in winter. Our study indicates that crows are primarily attracted to zoos by food availability and secondarily by breeding opportunities and that the relative importance of natural versus anthropogenic food sources may vary with zoo habitat structure. Our study draws attention to a previously overlooked role of zoos in urban biodiversity conservation. It may also provide useful information for the management of crow populations, if necessary, and for the planning of urban areas.}, }
@article {pmid31938530, year = {2019}, author = {Frommhold, M and Heim, A and Barabanov, M and Maier, F and Mühle, RU and Smirenski, SM and Heim, W}, title = {Breeding habitat and nest-site selection by an obligatory "nest-cleptoparasite", the Amur Falcon Falco amurensis.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {9}, number = {24}, pages = {14430-14441}, pmid = {31938530}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {The selection of a nest site is crucial for successful reproduction of birds. Animals which re-use or occupy nest sites constructed by other species often have limited choice. Little is known about the criteria of nest-stealing species to choose suitable nesting sites and habitats. Here, we analyze breeding-site selection of an obligatory "nest-cleptoparasite", the Amur Falcon Falco amurensis. We collected data on nest sites at Muraviovka Park in the Russian Far East, where the species breeds exclusively in nests of the Eurasian Magpie Pica pica. We sampled 117 Eurasian Magpie nests, 38 of which were occupied by Amur Falcons. Nest-specific variables were assessed, and a recently developed habitat classification map was used to derive landscape metrics. We found that Amur Falcons chose a wide range of nesting sites, but significantly preferred nests with a domed roof. Breeding pairs of Eurasian Hobby Falco subbuteo and Eurasian Magpie were often found to breed near the nest in about the same distance as neighboring Amur Falcon pairs. Additionally, the occurrence of the species was positively associated with bare soil cover, forest cover, and shrub patches within their home range and negatively with the distance to wetlands. Areas of wetlands and fallow land might be used for foraging since Amur Falcons mostly depend on an insect diet. Additionally, we found that rarely burned habitats were preferred. Overall, the effect of landscape variables on the choice of actual nest sites appeared to be rather small. We used different classification methods to predict the probability of occurrence, of which the Random forest method showed the highest accuracy. The areas determined as suitable habitat showed a high concordance with the actual nest locations. We conclude that Amur Falcons prefer to occupy newly built (domed) nests to ensure high nest quality, as well as nests surrounded by available feeding habitats.}, }
@article {pmid31936349, year = {2020}, author = {Shrader-Frechette, KS and Biondo, AM}, title = {Protecting Children from Toxic Waste: Data-Usability Evaluation Can Deter Flawed Cleanup.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {31936349}, issn = {1660-4601}, mesh = {California ; Child ; *Child Health ; *Environmental Restoration and Remediation ; Hazardous Waste ; *Hazardous Waste Sites ; Humans ; Public Health ; Risk Assessment ; }, abstract = {Nearly 25 percent of US children live within 2 km of toxic-waste sites, most of which are in urban areas. They face higher rates of cancer than adults, partly because the dominant contaminants at most US hazardous-waste sites include genotoxic carcinogens, like trichloroethylene, that are much more harmful to children. The purpose of this article is to help protect the public, especially children, from these threats and to improve toxics-remediation by beginning to test our hypothesis: If site-remediation assessments fail data-usability evaluation (DUE), they likely compromise later cleanups and public health, especially children's health. To begin hypothesis-testing, we perform a focused DUE for an unremediated, Pasadena, California toxic site. Our DUE methods are (a) comparing project-specific, remediation-assessment data with the remediation-assessment conceptual site model (CSM), in order to identify data gaps, and (b) using data-gap directionality to assess possible determinate bias (whether reported toxics risks are lower/higher than true values). Our results reveal (1) major CSM data gaps, particularly regarding Pasadena-toxic-site risks to children; (2) determinate bias, namely, risk underestimation; thus (3) likely inadequate remediation. Our discussion shows that if these results are generalizable, requiring routine, independent, DUEs might deter flawed toxic-site assessment/cleanup and resulting health threats, especially to children.}, }
@article {pmid31934505, year = {2020}, author = {Jiang, S and Li, Z and Cheng, X and Wang, X}, title = {The first pterosaur basihyal, shedding light on the evolution and function of pterosaur hyoid apparatuses.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {e8292}, pmid = {31934505}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {The pterosaur is the first known vertebrate clade to achieve powered flight. Its hyoid apparatus shows a simplification similar to that of birds, although samples of the apparatus are rare, limiting the ability to make an accurate determination. In this study we reveal a new pterosaur specimen, including the first definite basihyal. Through the comparison of pterosaur hyoids, a trend has been discovered for the shortened hyoid relative to the length of the skull, indicating a diminished role of lingual retraction during the evolution of the pterosaur. The new material, possibly from a gallodactylid Gladocephaloideus, represents one of the least effective lingual retractions in all pterosaurs. Based on the structure of an elongated ceratobranchial and retroarticular process on mandibles, the function of the Y-shaped istiodactylid tongue bone is similar to those of scavenger crows rather than chameleons, which is consistent with the interpretation of the scavenging behavior of this taxon. More fossil samples are needed for further study on the function of other pterosaur hyoids.}, }
@article {pmid31917312, year = {2020}, author = {Li, S and Yin, C and Zhao, W and Lian, X and Hong, Q}, title = {Application of Hydrogen Proton Magnetic Resonance Technology Combined with Brain Neurometabolite Analysis in the Treatment of Cognitive Impairment Caused by Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.}, journal = {World neurosurgery}, volume = {138}, number = {}, pages = {654-662}, doi = {10.1016/j.wneu.2019.12.162}, pmid = {31917312}, issn = {1878-8769}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aspartic Acid/*analogs &amp; derivatives/metabolism ; Cognitive Dysfunction/*diagnostic imaging/metabolism/therapy ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/*diagnostic imaging/metabolism/therapy ; Female ; Humans ; Hydrogen ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Prefrontal Cortex/*diagnostic imaging/metabolism ; Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy/*methods ; Protons ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {This study used hydrogen proton magnetic resonance imaging to detect the changes of white matter and the medial cortex in the prefrontal cortex of patients with type 2 diabetes, analyzed its relationship with cognitive function and blood glucose level, and discussed the recognition of patients with type 2 diabetes from the perspective of brain metabolism. We discuss the neural mechanisms affected by the disorder. The experiment recruited 65 volunteers, including 32 control subjects and 33 patients with type 2 diabetes. All volunteers underwent clinical cognitive function and psychological evaluation, including a simple intelligent mental state examination scale, digital breadth test, Raven intelligence test, Flanker paradigm experiment, connection test, auditory word learning test, depression self-evaluation scale, and anxiety self-rating scale. All subjects underwent multivoxel proton magnetic resonance scanning, and the spectral data were processed and metabolite concentration analysis was completed by Functool software. The detected regions of interest included the bilateral prefrontal white matter and bilateral prefrontal cortex. This study found that the N-acetylaspartate (NAA) and NAA/myo-inositol (MI) of the right prefrontal cortex were reduced, the right prefrontal white matter choline-containing compounds increased, and the MI of the bilateral prefrontal cortex increased in the type 2 diabetes group compared with the control group. The NAA value of the right prefrontal cortex in the type 2 diabetes group was negatively correlated with the glycated hemoglobin concentration. The study found that the right prefrontal cortex NAA value of patients with type 2 diabetes was negatively correlated with the glycated hemoglobin concentration, reflecting that recent blood glucose levels can affect the changes of brain metabolites, and reasonable control of blood glucose can effectively delay brain neurons caused by diabetes.}, }
@article {pmid31915061, year = {2020}, author = {Takaya, M and Ishii, K and Kubota, I and Shirakawa, O}, title = {The Landscape Montage Technique for diagnosing frontotemporal dementia starting as primary progressive aphasia: a case report.}, journal = {Journal of medical case reports}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {5}, pmid = {31915061}, issn = {1752-1947}, mesh = {Aphasia, Primary Progressive/*classification/*diagnosis ; Cerebral Cortex/diagnostic imaging ; Female ; Frontotemporal Dementia/*diagnosis ; Humans ; Japan ; Middle Aged ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The Landscape Montage Technique was originally developed by Hisao Nakai, a Japanese psychiatrist, to pursue the possibility and application of a psychotherapeutic approach using drawing for patients with schizophrenia. Drawing was initially adopted to evaluate patients with an impaired ability for verbal expression, particularly for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with schizophrenia. Since its development, the Landscape Montage Technique has been utilized in various clinical settings throughout Japan. This study aimed to evaluate the psychiatric conditions of a patient diagnosed as having primary progressive aphasia using the Landscape Montage Technique at a 3-year follow-up.<br><br>CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a 64-year-old, right-handed Japanese woman initially diagnosed as having logopenic variant primary progressive aphasia or logopenic aphasia. At a 3-year follow-up, logopenic aphasia progressed to behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia or frontotemporal dementia. According to her husband, she began to have speech difficulties approximately 5&#x2009;years before her first visit. The results&#xa0;of neurocognitive tests suggested mild cognitive impairment or early stages of dementia. Her clinical dementia rating score was 0.5, suggesting a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment. She had a Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices score of 31 out of 36, which indicated a nonverbal cognitive ability that was greater than the 90th percentile for her age. The Japanese Standard Language Test of Aphasia, which was performed at two points during the follow-up, indicated the possibility for a diagnosis of primary progressive aphasia given the progression of her aphasia. Based on her clinical symptoms and Japanese Standard Language Test of Aphasia results, a diagnosis of logopenic variant primary progressive aphasia was established. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed severe predominant left frontal and anterior temporal atrophy, as well as bilateral parietal atrophy. Amyloid beta deposition was negative. At the 3-year follow-up, logopenic variant primary progressive aphasia had progressed to behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia. However, the Landscape Montage Technique allowed for the diagnosis of behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia only 2&#x2009;years after baseline.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The present study showed that the Landscape Montage Technique can be useful for diagnosing behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia that starts as logopenic variant primary progressive aphasia at earlier stages.}, }
@article {pmid31912657, year = {2020}, author = {Long, KL and Prothero, DR and Syverson, VJP}, title = {How do small birds evolve in response to climate change? Data from the long-term record at La Brea tar pits.}, journal = {Integrative zoology}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {249-261}, doi = {10.1111/1749-4877.12426}, pmid = {31912657}, issn = {1749-4877}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; California ; *Climate Change ; Fossils/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {Biology textbooks describe the small changes in the beaks of the Galápagos finches as exemplars of how birds evolve in response to environmental changes. However, recent studies of the abundant fossil birds at Rancho La Brea find no evidence of evolutionary responses to the dramatic climate changes of the glacial-interglacial cycle over the past 35 000 years: none of the large birds exhibit any change in body size or limb proportions, even during the last glacial maximum approximately 18 000-20 000 years ago, when the southern California chaparral was replaced by snowy coniferous forests. However, these are all large birds with large ranges and broad habitat preferences, capable of living in many different environments. Perhaps the smaller birds at La Brea, which have smaller home ranges and narrower habitats, might respond to climate more like Galápagos finches. The only 3 common small birds at La Brea are the western meadowlark, the yellow-billed magpie and the raven. In this study, we demonstrate that these birds also show complete stasis over the last glacial-interglacial cycle, with no statistically significant changes between dated pits. Recent research suggests that the small-scale changes over short timescales seen in the Galápagos finches are merely fluctuations around a stable morphology, and rarely lead to long-term accumulation of changes or speciation. Instead, the prevalence of stasis supports the view that long-term directional changes in morphology are quite rare. While directional changes in morphology occur frequently over short (<1 ka) timescales, in the long term such changes only rarely remain stable for long enough to appear in the fossil record.}, }
@article {pmid31912608, year = {2020}, author = {Rahman, M and Mangtani, P and Uyeki, TM and Cardwell, JM and Torremorell, M and Islam, A and Samad, MA and Muraduzzaman, AKM and Giasuddin, M and Sarkar, S and Alamgir, ASM and Salimuzzaman, M and Flora, MS}, title = {Evaluation of potential risk of transmission of avian influenza A viruses at live bird markets in response to unusual crow die-offs in Bangladesh.}, journal = {Influenza and other respiratory viruses}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {349-352}, pmid = {31912608}, issn = {1750-2659}, support = {BB/L018993/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; 1681346/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Bangladesh/epidemiology ; Birds/*virology ; Chickens/virology ; Crows/*virology ; Female ; Humans ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Influenza in Birds/epidemiology/*transmission/virology ; Influenza, Human/epidemiology/*transmission/virology ; Male ; Poultry Diseases/epidemiology/*transmission/virology ; Viral Zoonoses/epidemiology/transmission/virology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {In response to unusual crow die-offs from avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection during January-February 2017 in Dhaka, Bangladesh, a One Health team assessed potential infection risks in live bird markets (LBMs). Evidence of aerosolized avian influenza A viruses was detected in LBMs and in the respiratory tracts of market workers, indicating exposure and potential for infection. This study highlighted the importance of surveillance platforms with a coordinated One Health strategy to investigate and mitigate zoonotic risk.}, }
@article {pmid31912522, year = {2020}, author = {Spanoudis, CG and Andreadis, SS and Bray, DP and Savopoulou-Soultani, M and Ignell, R}, title = {Behavioural response of the house mosquitoes Culex quinquefasciatus and Culex pipiens molestus to avian odours and its reliance on carbon dioxide.}, journal = {Medical and veterinary entomology}, volume = {34}, number = {2}, pages = {129-137}, doi = {10.1111/mve.12429}, pmid = {31912522}, issn = {1365-2915}, mesh = {Animals ; Carbon Dioxide/*metabolism ; *Chemotaxis ; Chickens/metabolism ; Columbidae/metabolism ; Culex/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; Odorants/*analysis ; Songbirds/metabolism ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {How Culex (Diptera: Culicidae) mosquitoes select and discriminate between potential avian hosts is critical for understanding the epidemiology of West Nile virus. Therefore, the present authors studied the behavioural responses of Culex quinquefasciatus (Say) and Culex pipiens molestus (Forsskål) to headspace volatiles of three avian species [chicken and pigeon (sexes analysed separately), and magpie], presented either alone or in combination with 600 p.p.m. carbon dioxide (CO2). The attraction of Cx. quinquefasciatus to the headspace volatiles of both sexes of chicken, and of female pigeon, in combination with CO2 was significantly higher than that achieved by the CO2 and solvent control. Although Cx. p. molestus was attracted to headspace volatiles of chickens and magpies, it was repelled by those of female pigeons when combined with CO2 . An increased effect between the avian volatiles and CO2 was observed for Cx. quinquefasciatus, whereas the addition of CO2 had no effect on the attraction of Cx. p. molestus females. The results of this study demonstrate that Cx. quinquefasciatus and Cx. p. molestus are attracted to the odour of potential avian hosts. Future studies aimed at identifying the bioactive volatile compounds in the headspace of chickens may contribute to the potential development of effective surveillance and control tools against Culex species.}, }
@article {pmid31904175, year = {2020}, author = {Kalman, DS and Hewlings, S}, title = {The effect of oral hydrolyzed eggshell membrane on the appearance of hair, skin, and nails in healthy middle-aged adults: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {19}, number = {6}, pages = {1463-1472}, pmid = {31904175}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Administration, Oral ; Adult ; Aged ; Animals ; Biological Products/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Cohort Studies ; Dietary Supplements/*adverse effects ; Double-Blind Method ; Egg Shell/*chemistry ; Face ; Female ; Hair/*drug effects/growth &amp; development ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Nails/drug effects/growth &amp; development ; Placebos/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Skin/*drug effects ; Skin Aging/drug effects ; Skin Pigmentation/drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Many over the counter and consumer packaged goods are promoted to enhance the appearance of hair, skin, and nails for the consumer. Nutrition is a major factor in affecting the health and appearance of hair, skin, and nails. In addition to how one eats, dietary supplementation may play a role in overall health and in the physical appearance.<br><br>AIMS: It was the aim of this study to objectively and subjectively evaluate the impacts of a nutritional intervention as compared to placebo on the appearances of hair, skin, and nails in healthy middle-aged adults.<br><br>METHODS: Randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study with 88 subjects randomized evenly to Study Product (BiovaBio&#x2122; 450&#xa0;mg/d, n&#xa0;=&#xa0;44) or Placebo (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;44) for 12-weeks. Outcome tests included TrichoScan HD (hair), Canfield Visia[&#xae;] -CR (skin), modified FACE-Q (skin), and anchored Likert Scales (nails).<br><br>RESULTS: Oral hydrolyzed eggshell membrane ingestion was associated with a significant improvement in facial skin appearance in crow's feet in 4&#xa0;weeks and skin tone in 8&#xa0;weeks, with significant impact on hair thickness, reduction in hair breakage and improvement in hair growth at 4, 8, and 12&#xa0;weeks. There were no observed subjective improvements for nails (appearance, strength or growth).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Oral supplementation of 450&#xa0;mg/d hydrolyzed eggshell membrane for 12&#xa0;weeks is associated with improvement in the appearance of facial skin and hair.}, }
@article {pmid31893686, year = {2019}, author = {Abadi, SH and Wacker, DW and Newton, JG and Flett, D}, title = {Acoustic localization of crows in pre-roost aggregations.}, journal = {The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America}, volume = {146}, number = {6}, pages = {4664}, doi = {10.1121/1.5138133}, pmid = {31893686}, issn = {1520-8524}, abstract = {Crows are highly intelligent and social creatures. Each night during the non-breeding period, they gather on large pre-roost aggregations as they move towards their communal roost where they sleep. Crows make numerous and varied vocalizations on these pre-roost aggregations, but the purpose of these calls, and vocal communication in general, in these pre-roost aggregations is not fully understood. In this paper, an array of four microphones is used as a non-intrusive means to observe crow vocal behavior in pre-roost aggregations in the absence of human observers. By passively localizing animal vocalizations, the location of individuals can be monitored while simultaneously recording the acoustic structure and organization of their calls. Simulations and experiment are undertaken to study the performance of two time difference of arrival-based methods (hyperbolic location estimator and maximum likelihood estimator) for call localization. The effect of signal-to-noise ratio and uncertainty in measurement on the localization error is presented. By describing, modeling, and testing these techniques in this innovative context, the authors hope that researchers will employ the authors' approaches in future empirical studies to more fully understand crow vocal behavior.}, }
@article {pmid33818453, year = {2020}, author = {Sharti, M and Amouakbari, MJ and Pourjabari, K and Hashemzadeh, MS and Tat, M and Omidifar, A and Dorostkar, R}, title = {Detection of West Nile virus by real-time PCR in crows in northern provinces of Iran.}, journal = {Journal of vector borne diseases}, volume = {57}, number = {1}, pages = {37-39}, doi = {10.4103/0972-9062.308797}, pmid = {33818453}, issn = {0972-9062}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*virology ; Genome, Viral ; Geography ; Iran/epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Viral/genetics ; *Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Seasons ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/transmission/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND &amp; OBJECTIVES: West Nile virus (WNV) is a positive-sense, single-stranded RNA virion, that belongs to the Flaviviridae family. This virus is preserved in a bird-mosquito cycle that is capable of inducing diseases as a dead-end or endpoint host in humans as well as horses. In 2016, a suspicious case of crow population death was reported by the Department of Environment, Ministry of Health, Iran. Considering the mass migration of birds together with the WNV-related symptoms, including uncoordinated walking, ataxia, inability to fly, lack of awareness, and abnormal body posture, it was necessary to further investigate the possible causes of this incident. The objective of this study was molecular detection of WNV in crows utilizing the real-time PCR method in the northern provinces of Iran.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 12 crows (8 dead, 4 alive) with a possible WNV infection, were collected from the northern provinces of Iran (Golestan, Mazandaran, and Guilan). A tissue sample of the liver, kidney, or lung was collected from all the crows, and RNA was isolated using an RNA extraction kit. A one-step real-time PCR method using a TaqMan probe was used for virus detection.<br><br>RESULTS: All the infected crows were positive for WNV. The 132-bp real-time PCR amplicon of the genome was detected in all the samples. Comparative phylogenetic analysis revealed that WNV isolated from Iran clustered with strains from the USA, Hungary, and Culex pipiens.<br><br>The WNV genome sequence was detected in all the infected crows. The results confirmed the connection of this isolation with clade1a strains. Hence, determining the epidemiologic and prevalence characteristics of the WNV for transmission control is of critical importance in Iran.}, }
@article {pmid33776292, year = {2020}, author = {Kumar, A and Singh, AR and Jahan, M}, title = {Application of mindfulness on stress, anxiety, and well-being in an adolescent student: A case study.}, journal = {Industrial psychiatry journal}, volume = {29}, number = {1}, pages = {165-170}, pmid = {33776292}, issn = {0972-6748}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Stress and anxiety are the major problems students face in their lives and specifically in their academic life, which, in turn, has a significant negative impact on their academic performance. There are different approaches to deal with stress and anxiety, for example, cognitive behavioral therapy and relaxation techniques.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The present study was conducted to evaluate the applicability of mindfulness on stress, anxiety, and psychological well-being in an adolescent student.<br><br>METHODS: In this study, single-case study design was used. The Pediatric Symptoms Checklist, Youth Self-Report, Institute of Personality and Ability Testing Anxiety Scale, and Checklist of Psychological Well-Being were administered on ten adolescent students. After the initial assessment, one participant was selected who was having significant level of stress, anxiety, and poor psychological well-being. Further detailed assessment was done using the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices, Parents' Observation Checklist, Teachers' Observation Checklist, and Students' Self-Observation Checklist. The student underwent 24 sessions of mindfulness training with a frequency of three sessions in a week. After completion of sessions, post assessment was done. He was re-assessed after 3 months.<br><br>RESULTS: After completion of mindfulness training, improvement was observed in stress, anxiety, well-being, and other variables, and the improvement was maintained till follow-up.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Mindfulness training has the potential in effectively reducing stress and anxiety and increasing a sense of well-being, but the major barrier is getting fixated with an idea of what's the right way to do mindfulness and feel it.}, }
@article {pmid31879592, year = {2020}, author = {Irie, T and Uraguchi, K and Ito, T and Yamazaki, A and Takai, S and Yagi, K}, title = {First report of Sarcocystis pilosa sporocysts in feces from red fox, Vulpes vulpes schrencki, in Hokkaido, Japan.}, journal = {International journal for parasitology. Parasites and wildlife}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {29-31}, pmid = {31879592}, issn = {2213-2244}, abstract = {Sarcocysts of various Sarcocystis spp. are highly prevalent in wild sika deer, Cervus nippon yesoensis, in Hokkaido, Japan, and four species have been identified based on morphological and molecular characteristics: S. ovalis, S. pilosa, S. tarandi-like, and S. truncata-like. The definitive hosts of S. ovalis are corvids, but the hosts of the other species have not yet been identified. Aiming to determine the definitive hosts of these species, we collected 65 red fox (Vulpes vulpes schrencki) fecal samples in eastern Hokkaido and examined them for fecal sporocysts using a modified sucrose flotation method. One fecal sample contained typical Sarcocystis sporocysts, which were identified as S. pilosa based on 18S ribosomal RNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene sequences. This is the first identification of S. pilosa sporocysts in the wild. These findings indicate that red foxes serve as a definitive host of S. pilosa, and that red foxes constitute a source of S. pilosa infection for deer in Hokkaido.}, }
@article {pmid31875855, year = {2019}, author = {Ashton, BJ and Thornton, A and Ridley, AR}, title = {Larger group sizes facilitate the emergence and spread of innovations in a group-living bird.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {158}, number = {}, pages = {1-7}, pmid = {31875855}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {The benefits of group living have traditionally been attributed to risk dilution or the efficient exploitation of resources; individuals in social groups may therefore benefit from access to valuable information. If sociality facilitates access to information, then individuals in larger groups may be predicted to solve novel problems faster than individuals in smaller groups. Additionally, larger group sizes may facilitate the subsequent spread of innovations within animal groups, as has been proposed for human societies. We presented a novel foraging task (where a food reward could be accessed by pushing a self-shutting sliding door) to 16 groups of wild, cooperatively breeding Australian magpies, Cracticus tibicen dorsalis, ranging in size from two to 11 individuals. We found a nonlinear decline in the time taken for the innovative behaviour to emerge with increasing group size, and social information use facilitated the transmission of novel behaviour, with it spreading more quickly in larger than smaller groups. This study provides important evidence for a nonlinear relationship between group size and the emergence of innovation (and its subsequent transmission) in a wild population of animals. Further work investigating the scope and strength of group size-innovation relationships, and the mechanisms underpinning them, will help us understand the potential advantages of living in larger social groups.}, }
@article {pmid31867421, year = {2020}, author = {Wongupparaj, P and Kumari, V and Morris, RG}, title = {IQ score gains over 65 years worldwide: Cross-temporal meta-analysis datasets.}, journal = {Data in brief}, volume = {28}, number = {}, pages = {104884}, pmid = {31867421}, issn = {2352-3409}, abstract = {The observed gain in IQ scores over time has been examined and supported. Nonetheless, this phenomenon (also called Flynn effect) may depend on age groups and country types. This article provides raw data from three standardized intelligence tests, namely, Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM), Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM), and Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM). The datasets contain mean IQ scores from APM, CPM, and SPM, and standard deviations, sample sizes, years of publication, participants' groups, types of countries, country-based samples, and gender of participants. This data was obtained from 199, 369, and 176 individual study samples for CPM, SPM, and APM, respectively, and covered a period of 65 years (1950-2014). There were 202,468 participants in total. An analysis and interpretation of results based on a cross-temporal meta-analysis for mean IQ scores from CPM, SPM, and APM over time can be found in the article "A Cross-Temporal Meta-Analysis of Raven's Progressive Matrices: Age groups and developing versus developed countries" (Wongupparaj, Kumari, Morris, 2015) [1]. These datasets can provide an extensive overview of the literature on Flynn effect across age groups, countries, and gender. In addition, they can serve as a useful starting point for further meta-analyses of IQ scores derived from CPM, SPM, and APM.}, }
@article {pmid31866910, year = {2019}, author = {Tikhomirova, T and Kuzmina, Y and Lysenkova, I and Malykh, S}, title = {The Relationship Between Non-symbolic and Symbolic Numerosity Representations in Elementary School: The Role of Intelligence.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {2724}, pmid = {31866910}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {This study aimed to estimate the extent to which the development of symbolic numerosity representations relies on pre-existing non-symbolic numerosity representations that refer to the Approximate Number System. To achieve this aim, we estimated the longitudinal relationships between accuracy in the Number Line (NL) test and "blue-yellow dots" test across elementary school children. Data from a four-wave longitudinal study involving schoolchildren in grades 1-4 in Russia and Kyrgyzstan (N = 490, mean age 7.65 years in grade 1) were analyzed. We applied structural equation modeling and tested several competing models. The results revealed that at the start of schooling, the accuracy in the NL test predicted subsequent accuracy in the "blue-yellow dots" test, whereas subsequently, non-symbolic representation in grades 2 and 3 predicted subsequent symbolic representation. These results indicate that the effect of non-symbolic representation on symbolic representation emerges after a child masters the basics of symbolic number knowledge, such as counting in the range of twenty and simple arithmetic. We also examined the extent to which the relationships between non-symbolic and symbolic representations might be explained by fluid intelligence, which was measured by Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices test. The results revealed that the effect of symbolic representation on non-symbolic representation was explained by fluid intelligence, whereas at the end of elementary school, non-symbolic representation predicted subsequent symbolic representation independently of fluid intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid31984131, year = {2019}, author = {Wick, RR and Holt, KE}, title = {Benchmarking of long-read assemblers for prokaryote whole genome sequencing.}, journal = {F1000Research}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {2138}, pmid = {31984131}, issn = {2046-1402}, mesh = {Benchmarking ; *Genomics ; *High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; }, abstract = {Background: Data sets from long-read sequencing platforms (Oxford Nanopore Technologies and Pacific Biosciences) allow for most prokaryote genomes to be completely assembled - one contig per chromosome or plasmid. However, the high per-read error rate of long-read sequencing necessitates different approaches to assembly than those used for short-read sequencing. Multiple assembly tools (assemblers) exist, which use a variety of algorithms for long-read assembly. Methods: We used 500 simulated read sets and 120 real read sets to assess the performance of eight long-read assemblers (Canu, Flye, Miniasm/Minipolish, NECAT, NextDenovo/NextPolish, Raven, Redbean and Shasta) across a wide variety of genomes and read parameters. Assemblies were assessed on their structural accuracy/completeness, sequence identity, contig circularisation and computational resources used. Results: Canu v2.1 produced reliable assemblies and was good with plasmids, but it performed poorly with circularisation and had the longest runtimes of all assemblers tested. Flye v2.8 was also reliable and made the smallest sequence errors, though it used the most RAM. Miniasm/Minipolish v0.3/v0.1.3 was the most likely to produce clean contig circularisation. NECAT v20200803 was reliable and good at circularisation but tended to make larger sequence errors. NextDenovo/NextPolish v2.3.1/v1.3.1 was reliable with chromosome assembly but bad with plasmid assembly. Raven v1.3.0 was reliable for chromosome assembly, though it did not perform well on small plasmids and had circularisation issues. Redbean v2.5 and Shasta v0.7.0 were computationally efficient but more likely to produce incomplete assemblies. Conclusions: Of the assemblers tested, Flye, Miniasm/Minipolish, NextDenovo/NextPolish and Raven performed best overall. However, no single tool performed well on all metrics, highlighting the need for continued development on long-read assembly algorithms.}, }
@article {pmid31847851, year = {2019}, author = {Ben-David, A and Shamon, H and Izhaki, I and Efronny, R and Maor, R and Dayan, T}, title = {Increased songbird nest depredation due to Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis) encroachment in Mediterranean shrubland.}, journal = {BMC ecology}, volume = {19}, number = {1}, pages = {52}, pmid = {31847851}, issn = {1472-6785}, mesh = {Animals ; Nesting Behavior ; *Passeriformes ; *Pinus ; Predatory Behavior ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In recent decades, a decrease of passerine densities was documented in Mediterranean shrublands. At the same time, a widespread encroachment of Aleppo pines (Pinus halepensis) to Mediterranean shrubland occurred. Such changes in vegetation structure may affect passerine predator assemblage and densities, and in turn impact passerine densities. Depredation during the nesting season is an important factor to influence passerine population size. Understanding the effects of changes in vegetation structure (pine encroachment) on passerine nesting success is the main objective of this study. We do so by assessing the effects of Aleppo pine encroachment on Sardinian warbler (Sylvia melanocephala) nest depredation in Mediterranean shrublands. We examined direct and indirect predation pressures through a gradients of pine density, using four methods: (1) placing dummy nests; (2) acoustic monitoring of mobbing events; (3) direct observations on nest predation using cameras; and (4) observation of Eurasian jay (Garrulus glandarius) behaviour as indirect evidence of predation risk.<br><br>RESULTS: We found that Aleppo pine encroachment to Mediterranean shrublands increased nest predation by Eurasian jays. Nest predation was highest in mixed shrubland and pines. These areas are suitable for warblers but had high occurrence rate of Eurasian jays.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Encroaching pines directly increase activity of Eurasian jays in shrubland habitats, which reduced the nesting success of Sardinian warblers. These findings are supported by multiple methodologies, illustrating different predation pressures along a gradient of pine densities in natural shrublands. Management of Aleppo pine seedlings and removal of unwanted trees in natural shrubland might mitigate arrival and expansion of predators and decrease the predation pressure on passerine nests.}, }
@article {pmid31847421, year = {2019}, author = {Michałowska, J and Tofil, A and Józwik, J and Pytka, J and Legutko, S and Siemiątkowski, Z and Łukaszewicz, A}, title = {Monitoring the Risk of the Electric Component Imposed on a Pilot During Light Aircraft Operations in a High-Frequency Electromagnetic Field.}, journal = {Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {19}, number = {24}, pages = {}, pmid = {31847421}, issn = {1424-8220}, support = {contract no.030/RID/2018/19//Lublin University of Technology - Regional Excellence Initiative, funded by the Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education/ ; }, mesh = {*Aircraft ; *Electromagnetic Fields ; Humans ; Radiation Dosimeters ; Radio Waves ; }, abstract = {High-frequency electromagnetic fields can have a negative effect on both the human body and electronic devices. The devices and systems utilized in radio communications constitute the most numerous sources of electromagnetic fields. The following research investigates values of the electric component of electromagnetic field intensification determined with the ESM 140 dosimeter during the flights of four aircrafts-Cessna C152, Cessna C172, Aero AT3 R100, and Robinson R44 Raven helicopter-from the airport in Depultycze Krolewskie near Chelm, Poland. The point of reference for the obtained results were the normative limits of the electromagnetic field that can affect a pilot in the course of a flight. The maximum value registered by the dosimeter was E = 3.307 V/m for GSM 1800 frequencies.}, }
@article {pmid31842726, year = {2019}, author = {Lessov-Schlaggar, CN and Del Rosario, OL and Morris, JC and Ances, BM and Schlaggar, BL and Constantino, JN}, title = {Adaptation of the Clinical Dementia Rating Scale for adults with Down syndrome.}, journal = {Journal of neurodevelopmental disorders}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {39}, pmid = {31842726}, issn = {1866-1955}, support = {U01 AG032438/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; P01AG003991/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; P01 AG026276/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 TR000448/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; P01AG026276/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 TR002345/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; P30 CA091842/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; P50 AG05681/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; P01 AG003991/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; P50 AG005681/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; U54 HD087022//Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/International ; UF1AG032438/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Down Syndrome/*diagnosis/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Status and Dementia Tests/*standards ; Middle Aged ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Adults with Down syndrome (DS) are at increased risk for Alzheimer disease dementia, and there is a pressing need for the development of assessment instruments that differentiate chronic cognitive impairment, acute neuropsychiatric symptomatology, and dementia in this population of patients.<br><br>METHODS: We adapted a widely used instrument, the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) Scale, which is a component of the Uniform Data Set used by all federally funded Alzheimer Disease Centers for use in adults with DS, and tested the instrument among 34 DS patients recruited from the community. The participants were assessed using two versions of the modified CDR-a caregiver questionnaire and an in-person interview involving both the caregiver and the DS adult. Assessment also included the Dementia Scale for Down Syndrome (DSDS) and the Raven's Progressive Matrices to estimate IQ.<br><br>RESULTS: Both modified questionnaire and interview instruments captured a range of cognitive impairments, a majority of which were found to be chronic when accounting for premorbid function. Two individuals in the sample were strongly suspected to have early dementia, both of whom had elevated scores on the modified CDR instruments. Among individuals rated as having no dementia based on the DSDS, about half showed subthreshold impairments on the modified CDR instruments; there was substantial agreement between caregiver questionnaire screening and in-person interview of caregivers and DS adults.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The modified questionnaire and interview instruments capture a range of impairment in DS adults, including subthreshold symptomatology, and the instruments provide complementary information relevant to the ascertainment of dementia in DS. Decline was seen across all cognitive domains and was generally positively related to age and negatively related to IQ. Most importantly, adjusting instrument scores for chronic, premorbid impairment drastically shifted the distribution toward lower (no impairment) scores.}, }
@article {pmid31841482, year = {2019}, author = {Lisukha, LM and Kolpakov, IY}, title = {STATE OF COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS IN CHILDREN WITH PATHOLOGY OF DIGESTIVE ORGANS, WHO LIVE AT RADIOACTIVE CONTAMINATED TERRITORIES OF UKRAINE.}, journal = {Problemy radiatsiinoi medytsyny ta radiobiolohii}, volume = {24}, number = {}, pages = {395-410}, doi = {10.33145/2304-8336-2019-24-395-410}, pmid = {31841482}, issn = {2313-4607}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Anxiety/*etiology/physiopathology ; *Chernobyl Nuclear Accident ; Child ; Cognition/radiation effects ; Digestive System/pathology/physiopathology/radiation effects ; Dyspepsia/*etiology/physiopathology ; Fatigue/*etiology/physiopathology ; Female ; Gastritis/*etiology/physiopathology ; Humans ; Male ; Memory, Long-Term/radiation effects ; Nervous System/pathology/physiopathology/radiation effects ; Neurasthenia/*etiology/physiopathology ; Pain/*etiology/physiopathology ; Radiation Exposure/adverse effects ; Radioactive Fallout/adverse effects ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Ukraine ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: to study the state of cognitive functions in children who were born and permanently live at radioactive contaminated territories (RCT) with pathology of the upper digestive tract, using pathopsychological testing; to increase the effectiveness of treatment and prophylactic measures aimed at preserving and restoring the health of RCT residents.<br><br>DESIGN, PATIENTS AND METHODS: A randomized blind controlled clinical trial was conducted. There were examined, a total of 90 persons aged 6 to 17 years (35 boys and 55 girls) who were divided into two groups: the control group (I) included 30 persons of the conventional &#xab;clean&#xbb; territories, and the main group (II) - 60 patients with patho- logy of the digestive organs who were born and live at the RCT. The study program included: the collection of anam- nesis, complaints; clinical and instrumental examinations. The following tests were applied by us: &#xab;What things are hidden in the drawings&#xbb;, Toulouse-Pieron, Raven, and Luria testing. For detecting the anxiety level, and the subjec- tive signs of autonomic dysfunctions were used the Spilberg-Hanin self-diagnosis and the Wein questionnaire, respectively.<br><br>RESULTS: It was shown that in children aged 6-11 years, according to the results of the Toulouse-Pieron test, speed of cognitive information-processing was significantly decreased by 7.17 conventional units, while on the back- ground of the etiopathogenetic treatment of the digestive tract - by 10.24 conventional units relative to the va- lues of the control group. The long-term memory was statistically significantly decreased in the examined children of senior school age (from 12 to 17 years). A significant increase in reactive anxiety and a reverse correlation between the personal anxiety (PA) and speed of cognitive information-processing (r = -0.331) were recorded in patients aged 6-11 years. In older patients, PA was increased.&#x421;onclusions. The obtained results indicate that the state of cognitive functions was characterized by a decrease in speed of cognitive information-processing, long-term memory and a high level of anxiety in children aged from 6 to 17 years residents of R&#x421;T with pathology of digestive organs, according to the used testing.}, }
@article {pmid31840424, year = {2020}, author = {Messaraa, C and Robertson, N and Walsh, M and Hurley, S and Doyle, L and Mansfield, A and Daly, L and Tansey, C and Mavon, A}, title = {Clinical evidences of benefits from an advanced skin care routine in comparison with a simple routine.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {19}, number = {8}, pages = {1993-1999}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.13252}, pmid = {31840424}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {*Cosmetics ; Female ; Humans ; Skin ; *Skin Aging ; Skin Care ; Skin Pigmentation ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The use of a skin care routine is commonly promoted by the cosmetic industry, yet there is a lack of clinical evidence to support this practice over the use of a single skin care product.<br><br>AIMS: In the present study, we aimed at showing the clinical benefits of using a comprehensive skin care routine vs a simple one.<br><br>METHODS: Skin micro-/macro-topographic, skin color, and superficial/deep hydration were collected at baseline and after 4&#xa0;weeks of use, on forty-nine women randomly allocated to two groups. The first one followed the use of an advanced routine (AR: Cleanser/Toner/Eye cream/Serum/Day &amp; Night cream), while the other group was instructed to use a simple routine (SR: Cleanser &amp; Day cream).<br><br>RESULTS: Hemoglobin heterogeneity was found to be significantly reduced only in the SR group. However, the AR outperformed the SR when it comes to improving superficial hydration, deep hydration, skin roughness, mean pore area, melanin heterogeneity, and crow's feet wrinkle depth. A significant increase in skin brightness from baseline was only recorded when using the AR while both routines significantly improved the nasolabial wrinkles.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These findings advocate for using a relevant daily routine as it demonstrates the visible skin benefits over a short period, while driving the creation of habits for the prevention of aging signs.}, }
@article {pmid31838886, year = {2020}, author = {Shrader-Frechette, K and Meade, T}, title = {Using routine, independent, scientific-data audits as an early-warning for potentially fraudulent toxic-site cleanup: PCE, TCE, and other VOCs at the former Naval-Ordnance Test Station, Pasadena, California.}, journal = {Accountability in research}, volume = {27}, number = {1}, pages = {1-31}, doi = {10.1080/08989621.2019.1695200}, pmid = {31838886}, issn = {1545-5815}, mesh = {California ; Environmental Restoration and Remediation/*standards ; *Fraud ; Hazardous Waste Sites/*standards ; Humans ; Management Audit/*organization &amp; administration/standards ; Tetrachloroethylene/*analysis ; Trichloroethylene/*analysis ; Volatile Organic Compounds/analysis ; }, abstract = {Two of the most prevalent Superfund-site contaminants are carcinogenic solvents PCE (perchloroethylene) and TCE (trichloroethylene). Because their cleanup is difficult and costly, remediators have repeatedly falsified site-cleanup data, as Tetra Tech apparently did recently in San Francisco. Especially for difficult-to-remediate toxins, this paper hypothesizes that scientific misrepresentations occur in toxic-site assessments, before remediation even begins. To begin to test this hypothesis, the paper (1) defines scientific-data audits (assessing whether published conclusions contradict source data), (2) performs a preliminary scientific-data audit of toxic-site assessments by consultants Ninyo and Moore for developer Trammell Crow. Trammel Crow wants to build 550 apartments on an unremediated Pasadena, California site - once a premier US Navy weapons-testing/development facility. The paper (3) examines four key Ninyo-and-Moore conclusions, that removing only localized metals-hotspots will (3.1) remediate TCE/PCE; (3.2) leave low levels of them; (3.3) clean the northern half of soil, making it usable for grading, and (3.4) ensure site residents have lifetime cancer risks no greater than 1 in 3,000. The paper (4) shows that source data contradict all four conclusions. After summarizing the benefits of routine, independent, scientific-data audits (RISDA), the paper (5) argues that, if these results are generalizable, RISDA might help prevent questionable toxic-site assessments, especially those of expensive-to-remediate toxins like PCE/TCE.}, }
@article {pmid31830510, year = {2020}, author = {Tätte, K and Møller, AP and Mänd, R}, title = {Corvids exhibit dynamic risk assessment during escape.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {170}, number = {}, pages = {104017}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2019.104017}, pmid = {31830510}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Ecosystem ; Humans ; Population ; Predatory Behavior ; *Risk-Taking ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {It is widely accepted that stationary prey are able to carefully assess the risk levels associated with an approaching predator to make informative decisions on when to escape. However, little is known about subsequent decision-making process. We set out to compare whether escape durations of three species of corvids differ depending on how a human observer (in the role of a predator) behaves after the escape has begun. When birds were being followed during escape, escape durations were the longest, escape trajectory was modified the most during escape, and a larger proportion of individuals changed from terrestrial to aerial escape strategy compared to observations where birds were not followed. Mean horizontal escape angle of ca 120° was also a potential indication that monitoring the threat is taken into account when deciding on the escape trajectory. While there were some differences between the behaviour of these three closely related species, the general patterns supported the notion that birds dynamically assess risk during escape to find an optimal balance between getting caught and spending too much time and energy on escaping. Further research using different predator-prey combinations or making comparisons between habitats could help understand the generality of our results.}, }
@article {pmid31827631, year = {2019}, author = {Davis, BJK and Curriero, FC}, title = {Development and Evaluation of Geostatistical Methods for Non-Euclidean-Based Spatial Covariance Matrices.}, journal = {Mathematical geosciences}, volume = {51}, number = {6}, pages = {767-791}, pmid = {31827631}, issn = {1874-8961}, support = {R01 AI123931/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Customary and routine practice of geostatistical modeling assumes that inter-point distances are a Euclidean metric (i.e., as the crow flies) when characterizing spatial variation. There are many real-world settings, however, in which the use of a non-Euclidean distance is more appropriate, for example in complex bodies of water. However, if such a distance is used with current semivariogram functions, the resulting spatial covariance matrices are no longer guaranteed to be positive-definite. Previous attempts to address this issue for geostatistical prediction (i.e., kriging) models transform the non-Euclidean space into a Euclidean metric, such as through multi-dimensional scaling (MDS). However, these attempts estimate spatial covariances only after distances are scaled. An alternative method is proposed to re-estimate a spatial covariance structure originally based on a non-Euclidean distance metric to ensure validity. This method is compared to the standard use of Euclidean distance, as well as a previously utilized MDS method. All methods are evaluated using cross-validation assessments on both simulated and real-world experiments. Results show a high level of bias in prediction variance for the previously developed MDS method that has not been highlighted previously. Conversely, the proposed method offers a preferred tradeoff between prediction accuracy and prediction variance and at times outperforms the existing methods for both sets of metrics. Overall results indicate that this proposed method can provide improved geostatistical predictions while ensuring valid results when the use of non-Euclidean distances is warranted.}, }
@article {pmid31826758, year = {2019}, author = {Osvath, M and Kabadayi, C}, title = {A theory stuck in evolutionary and historical time.}, journal = {The Behavioral and brain sciences}, volume = {42}, number = {}, pages = {e268}, doi = {10.1017/S0140525X19000359}, pmid = {31826758}, issn = {1469-1825}, mesh = {*Cognition ; *Emotions ; }, abstract = {We argue that the two temporal cognition systems are conceptually too confined to be helpful in understanding the evolution of temporal cognition. In fact, we doubt there are two systems. In relation to this, we question that the authors did not describe the results of our planning study on ravens correctly, as this is of consequence to their theory.}, }
@article {pmid31819582, year = {2019}, author = {Yi, DJ and Hwang, S and Son, J and Yushmanova, I and Anson Spenta, K and St Rose, S}, title = {Real-World Safety And Effectiveness Of OnabotulinumtoxinA Treatment Of Crow's Feet Lines And Glabellar Lines: Results Of A Korean Postmarketing Surveillance Study.}, journal = {Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {851-856}, pmid = {31819582}, issn = {1178-7015}, abstract = {PURPOSE: OnabotulinumtoxinA is approved in the Republic of Korea for the treatment of moderate-to-severe crow's feet lines (CFL) and glabellar lines (GL), separately or in combination. We assessed safety and effectiveness of onabotulinumtoxinA in real-world clinical practice.<br><br>PATIENT AND METHODS: This 4-year postmarketing surveillance study was conducted in the Republic of Korea in subjects with moderate-to-severe CFL. Subjects aged 18 to 75 years received onabotulinumtoxinA injections for CFL alone or in combination with GL. Safety assessments included adverse events (AEs), serious AEs (SAEs), and unexpected AEs (not noted in Korean prescribing information). Investigators assessed effectiveness via change from baseline in CFL.<br><br>RESULTS: The full analysis set comprised 695 subjects; 667 were in the safety set and 376 in the effectiveness set. In the safety set, mean &#xb1; SD age was 40.9&#xb1;13.0 years; most subjects (87.3%) were female. More subjects were treated for CFL (69.9%) than CFL and GL simultaneously (30.1%). Eleven subjects experienced 14 AEs; 12 were mild in severity and 11 resolved without sequelae. Two cases of injection site pain in 2 subjects each were deemed possibly related to onabotulinumtoxinA. One unexpected SAE (acute renal failure) occurred in 1 subject (0.15%). All unexpected AEs (n=4) were mild and considered unrelated to treatment. Overall change from baseline showed CFL was improved in 375 subjects (99.7%) and unchanged in 1 subject (0.3%).<br><br>CONCLUSION: OnabotulinumtoxinA was well tolerated and effective for treatment of CFL with or without GL in a real-world Korean population. No new safety concerns were identified.}, }
@article {pmid31805246, year = {2019}, author = {Gustafsson, DR and Bush, SE}, title = {The Genus Brueelia (Phthiraptera: Ischnocera: Philopteridae) of North American Jays and Allies (Aves: Passeriformes: Corvidae), with Descriptions of Five New Species.}, journal = {The Journal of parasitology}, volume = {105}, number = {6}, pages = {893-903}, pmid = {31805246}, issn = {1937-2345}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Crows/parasitology ; Female ; Ischnocera/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification ; Lice Infestations/parasitology/*veterinary ; Male ; North America ; Passeriformes/*parasitology ; }, abstract = {Five new species of chewing lice in the genus Brueelia Kéler, 1936 , are described from North American jays and allies. They are Brueelia mexicana n. sp. from Aphelocoma woodhouseii cyanotis Ridgway, 1887 ; Brueelia bonnevillensis n. sp. from Aphelocoma woodhouseii nevadae Pitelka, 1945 ; Brueelia diblasiae n. sp. from Cyanocitta stelleri frontalis (Ridgway, 1873); Brueelia tempestwilliamsae n. sp. from Gymnorhinus cyanocephala Wied-Neuwied, 1841 ; Brueelia mcnewae n. sp. from Nucifraga columbiana (Wilson, 1811). An identification key to the Brueelia on corvid hosts is provided.}, }
@article {pmid31800488, year = {2019}, author = {Smyth, SF and Beversdorf, DQ}, title = {Muscarinic and Nicotinic Modulation of Memory but not Verbal Problem-solving.}, journal = {Cognitive and behavioral neurology : official journal of the Society for Behavioral and Cognitive Neurology}, volume = {32}, number = {4}, pages = {278-283}, pmid = {31800488}, issn = {1543-3641}, support = {K23 NS043222/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Cognition/drug effects ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory Disorders/*metabolism ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Muscarinic Antagonists/*adverse effects ; Nicotinic Antagonists/*adverse effects ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Aspects of cognitive flexibility are modulated by the noradrenergic system, which is important in arousal and attention. Acetylcholine also modulates arousal and attention, as well as working memory. Effects of muscarinic and nicotinic antagonism on memory are well established. Our purpose was to test whether muscarinic and nicotinic antagonism affect aspects of cognitive flexibility, specifically verbal problem-solving, as well as memory, given acetylcholine's role in attention and arousal. Eighteen participants attended three testing sessions. Two hours before testing, participants received either 0.6 mg scopolamine, 10 mg mecamylamine, or placebo. Then, participants were tested on three memory tasks (Buschke Selective Reminding Test [BSRT], California Verbal Learning Test [CVLT], Rey Complex Figure Test), two verbal problem-solving/cognitive flexibility tasks (Compound Remote Associates Test, a timed anagram test), and a spatial inductive reasoning task (Raven's Progressive Matrices). Task order and drug order were counterbalanced. Memory impairment was seen on one BSRT measure and multiple CVLT measures with scopolamine, and with one BSRT measure with mecamylamine. There were no effects of either drug on any of the tasks involving cognitive flexibility, including verbal problem-solving. Specific memory impairments were detected using muscarinic, and to a marginal extent, nicotinic antagonists, as expected, but no effect was seen on cognitive flexibility. Therefore, although both the noradrenergic and cholinergic systems play important roles in arousal and cortical signal-to-noise processing, the cholinergic system does not appear to have the same effect as the noradrenergic system on cognitive flexibility, including verbal problem-solving.}, }
@article {pmid31788195, year = {2019}, author = {Chiffard, J and Delestrade, A and Yoccoz, NG and Loison, A and Besnard, A}, title = {Warm temperatures during cold season can negatively affect adult survival in an alpine bird.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {9}, number = {22}, pages = {12531-12543}, pmid = {31788195}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Climate seasonality is a predominant constraint on the lifecycles of species in alpine and polar biomes. Assessing the response of these species to climate change thus requires taking into account seasonal constraints on populations. However, interactions between seasonality, weather fluctuations, and population parameters remain poorly explored as they require long-term studies with high sampling frequency. This study investigated the influence of environmental covariates on the demography of a corvid species, the alpine chough Pyrrhocorax graculus, in the highly seasonal environment of the Mont Blanc region. In two steps, we estimated: (1) the seasonal survival of categories of individuals based on their age, sex, etc., (2) the effect of environmental covariates on seasonal survival. We hypothesized that the cold season-and more specifically, the end of the cold season (spring)-would be a critical period for individuals, and we expected that weather and individual covariates would influence survival variation during critical periods. We found that while spring was a critical season for adult female survival, it was not for males. This is likely because females are dominated by males at feeding sites during snowy seasons (winter and spring), and additionally must invest energy in egg production. When conditions were not favorable, which seemed to happen when the cold season was warmer than usual, females probably reached their physiological limits. Surprisingly, adult survival was higher at the beginning of the cold season than in summer, which may result from adaptation to harsh weather in alpine and polar vertebrates. This hypothesis could be confirmed by testing it with larger sets of populations. This first seasonal analysis of individual survival over the full life cycle in a sedentary alpine bird shows that including seasonality in demographic investigations is crucial to better understand the potential impacts of climate change on cold ecosystems.}, }
@article {pmid31784911, year = {2020}, author = {Wang, R and Chen, B and Li, Y and Wang, T and Ding, W}, title = {Complete genomic sequence of crow-dipper mosaic-associated virus, a novel macluravirus infecting Pinellia ternata.}, journal = {Archives of virology}, volume = {165}, number = {2}, pages = {491-494}, doi = {10.1007/s00705-019-04471-y}, pmid = {31784911}, issn = {1432-8798}, support = {2016-I2M-3-017//Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences/ ; }, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; China ; Crows/virology ; Genome Size/genetics ; Genome, Viral/*genetics ; Genomics/methods ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods ; Mosaic Viruses/*genetics ; Phylogeny ; Pinellia/*virology ; Plant Diseases/virology ; Polyproteins/genetics ; Potyviridae/*genetics ; RNA, Viral/genetics ; Satellite Viruses/*genetics ; Viral Proteins/genetics ; }, abstract = {A new macluravirus infecting Pinellia ternata in China was identified by high-throughput sequencing (HTS) and tentatively named "crow-dipper mosaic-associated virus" (CrdMV). The complete genome sequence of CrdMV was determined by reverse transcription (RT) PCR and rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) PCR. The genomic RNA of CrdMV consists of 8,454 nucleotides (nt), excluding the poly(A) tail at the 3' end. CrdMV has a genomic structure typical of macluraviruses, with large open reading frame encoding a polyprotein of 2,696 amino acids (aa). CrdMV shares 54.40%-59.37% nt sequence identity at the genome sequence level, 48.00%-58.58% aa sequence identity, at the polyprotein sequence level and 37.27%-49.22% aa sequence identity at the CP sequence level with other members of the genus Macluravirus. These values are well below the species demarcation threshold for the family Potyviridae. Phylogenetic analysis based on the amino acid sequences of polyproteins confirmed that CrdMV clusters closely with broad-leafed dock virus A (BDVA, GenBank accession no. KU053507). These results suggest that CrdMV should be considered a distinct member of the genus Macluravirus.}, }
@article {pmid31767092, year = {2019}, author = {Ziegler, U and Fischer, D and Eiden, M and Reuschel, M and Rinder, M and Müller, K and Schwehn, R and Schmidt, V and Groschup, MH and Keller, M}, title = {Sindbis virus- a wild bird associated zoonotic arbovirus circulates in Germany.}, journal = {Veterinary microbiology}, volume = {239}, number = {}, pages = {108453}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2019.108453}, pmid = {31767092}, issn = {1873-2542}, mesh = {Alphavirus Infections/epidemiology/transmission/*virology ; Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/transmission/*virology ; Birds/virology ; Genotype ; Germany/epidemiology ; Humans ; Mosquito Vectors/*virology ; Phylogeny ; Sindbis Virus/*classification/genetics/physiology ; Zoonoses/epidemiology/transmission/*virology ; }, abstract = {Sindbis virus (SINV) is an arbovirus causing clinical symptoms such as arthritis, rash and fever following human infections in Fennoscandia. Its transmission cycle involves mosquito species as vectors as well as wild birds that act as natural reservoir hosts. In Germany, SINV was first time observed in 2009 in different mosquito species in the Upper Rhine valley and one year later in a hooded crow in Berlin. Recently, SINV was also detected repeatedly at various locations in Germany in the context of a mosquitoes monitoring program for arboviruses. In this study, we detected for just the second time a SINV infection in a diseased wild bird (common wood pigeon) from Central Europe. SINV was isolated by cell culture and the complete SINV genome sequence was determined. Phylogenetic analyses revealed a close affiliation to SINV genotype I with a high similarity to human isolate sequences from Finland, Sweden and Russia. The isolate was genetically distinct from the first avian isolate suggesting the circulation of at least two different SINV strains in Germany. In order to reveal the infection frequency in SINV positive mosquito regions 749 bird blood samples were assayed serologically and SINV antibodies found primarily in resident birds. SINV is therefore endemically circulating in mosquitoes in Germany, which results in occasional bird infections. No data are yet available on zoonotic transmission to humans.}, }
@article {pmid31764410, year = {2020}, author = {Cai, L and Chen, Y and Hu, X and Guo, Y and Zhao, X and Sun, T and Wu, Y and Li, X}, title = {An Epidemiological Study of Chinese Children with Developmental Dyslexia.}, journal = {Journal of developmental and behavioral pediatrics : JDBP}, volume = {41}, number = {3}, pages = {203-211}, doi = {10.1097/DBP.0000000000000751}, pmid = {31764410}, issn = {1536-7312}, mesh = {Child ; China/epidemiology ; Dyslexia/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Epidemiologic Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Sex Factors ; *Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The epidemiological studies of Chinese developmental dyslexia (DD) in China are still limited. The current study aimed to investigate the prevalence rate, risk factors, and psychiatric comorbidities of Chinese DD in Guangzhou, a city in South China.<br><br>METHOD: A total of 1661 students from second to fifth grades were recruited. The dyslexic students were identified by evaluating learning disability through the Pupil Rating Scale-Revised Screening for Learning Disability (PRS) scale by the head teachers and word recognition through the standard test. Students with a PRS score of <65 received the Raven's test, and those with intelligence quotient scores below 80 in the Raven's test were excluded. Psychiatric comorbidities were assessed by the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire completed by parents.<br><br>RESULTS: The prevalence rate of Chinese DD was 4.9% in Guangzhou city. There were significant differences in gender, the paternal educational level, and reading experience before the age of 6 years between the DD group and the non-DD group. Male gender (odds ratio [OR] = 4.17), low paternal educational level (p = 0.045), and lack of reading experience before the age of 6 years (OR = 1.99) were the risk factors for DD. The DD cases had a higher risk of hyperactivity and inattention (OR = 3.21).<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study showed that the prevalence rate of DD was 4.9% in Guangzhou city. Male gender, low paternal educational level, and lack of reading experience before the age of 6 years were the risk factors for Chinese DD. The high comorbidity rate of hyperactivity and inattention in the Chinese DD population needs further evaluation.}, }
@article {pmid31762100, year = {2020}, author = {Jokimäki, J and Suhonen, J and Benedetti, Y and Diaz, M and Kaisanlahti-Jokimäki, ML and Morelli, F and Pérez-Contreras, T and Rubio, E and Sprau, P and Tryjanowski, P and Ibánez-Álamo, JD}, title = {Land-sharing vs. land-sparing urban development modulate predator-prey interactions in Europe.}, journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {e02049}, doi = {10.1002/eap.2049}, pmid = {31762100}, issn = {1051-0761}, mesh = {Animals ; Biodiversity ; *Birds ; Cats ; Cities ; Ecosystem ; Europe ; Humans ; Nesting Behavior ; Predatory Behavior ; *Urban Renewal ; }, abstract = {Urban areas are expanding globally as a consequence of human population increases, with overall negative effects on biodiversity. To prevent the further loss of biodiversity, it is urgent to understand the mechanisms behind this loss to develop evidence-based sustainable solutions to preserve biodiversity in urban landscapes. The two extreme urban development types along a continuum, land-sparing (large, continuous green areas and high-density housing) and land-sharing (small, fragmented green areas and low-density housing) have been the recent focus of debates regarding the pattern of urban development. However, in this context, there is no information on the mechanisms behind the observed biodiversity changes. One of the main mechanisms proposed to explain urban biodiversity loss is the alteration of predator-prey interactions. Using ground-nesting birds as a model system and data from nine European cities, we experimentally tested the effects of these two extreme urban development types on artificial ground nest survival and whether nest survival correlates with the local abundance of ground-nesting birds and their nest predators. Nest survival (n = 554) was lower in land-sharing than in land-sparing urban areas. Nest survival decreased with increasing numbers of local predators (cats and corvids) and with nest visibility. Correspondingly, relative abundance of ground-nesting birds was greater in land-sparing than in land-sharing urban areas, though overall bird species richness was unaffected by the pattern of urban development. We provide the first evidence that predator-prey interactions differ between the two extreme urban development types. Changing interactions may explain the higher proportion of ground-nesting birds in land-sparing areas, and suggest a limitation of the land-sharing model. Nest predator control and the provision of more green-covered urban habitats may also improve conservation of sensitive birds in cities. Our findings provide information on how to further expand our cities without severe loss of urban-sensitive species and give support for land-sparing over land-sharing urban development.}, }
@article {pmid31761457, year = {2020}, author = {Hirschl, RB and Newman, E and Cooke-Barber, J and Garcia, V}, title = {APSA 5.0: Saving even more lifetimes the Jay and Margie Grosfeld presidential symposium.}, journal = {Journal of pediatric surgery}, volume = {55}, number = {1}, pages = {2-17}, doi = {10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2019.10.004}, pmid = {31761457}, issn = {1531-5037}, mesh = {Humans ; Pediatrics/*organization &amp; administration ; Poverty ; Racism ; United States ; }, abstract = {In light of APSA's 50th Anniversary, the typical Presidential Address was transformed into a "symposium" consisting of talks on the maturation of our organization to APSA 5.0 and the issues and opportunities related to its internal and external environment, especially as they apply to our pediatric surgical patients. Speakers included the President and experts in the fields of diversity, as well as inequity and poverty in the United States.}, }
@article {pmid31754855, year = {2020}, author = {Liu, D and Brice, B and Elliot, A and Ryan, U and Yang, R}, title = {Molecular and morphological analysis of a Caryospora-like isolate (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) from the magpie-lark (Grallina cyanoleuca) (Latham, 1801) in Western Australia.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {119}, number = {2}, pages = {611-621}, pmid = {31754855}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; DNA, Protozoan ; Eimeriidae/*classification/cytology/isolation &amp; purification ; Female ; Male ; Oocysts/classification ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 28S/genetics ; Songbirds/*parasitology ; Sporozoites ; Western Australia ; }, abstract = {A new Caryospora-like isolate is described from a magpie-lark (Grallina cyanoleuca) in Western Australia. Sporulated oocysts of the Caryospora-like isolate (n = 35) are subspherical with a shape index of 1.13 ((21.5 (19.7-23.6) × 19.0 (18.1-19.8) μm). The bilayered oocyst wall is smooth. Micropyle, polar granule and oocyst residuum are absent. The sporocyst is ellipsoidal, 18.9 (17.2-20.8) × 12.3 (11.9-12.8) μm, with a shape index (length/width) of 1.54. The sporocyst wall is bilayered. Stieda and substieda bodies are present, the Stieda body is small and flattened and the substieda is trapezoidal. Sporocyst with eight sporozoites arranged head to tail. The sporozoites are vermiform, 18.9 (17.2-20.8) × 12.3 (11.9-12.8) μm and have striations at the anterior end. Each sporozoite has both anterior and posterior refractile bodies. A sporocyst residuum is present. Molecular characterization of the isolated Caryospora-like oocysts was conducted at the 18S ribosomal RNA and the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase (COI) loci. At the 18S rRNA locus, the Caryospora-like isolate exhibited 88.8% to 96.5% similarity with other Caryospora spp. from different hosts. At the COI locus, it showed 91.5% similarity to Caryospora cf. bigenetica JB-2013 (KF859856) from the rattlesnake, Sistrurus catenatus.}, }
@article {pmid31753993, year = {2019}, author = {Klump, BC}, title = {Of crows and tools.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {366}, number = {6468}, pages = {965}, doi = {10.1126/science.aaz7775}, pmid = {31753993}, issn = {1095-9203}, support = {BB/G023913/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; *Crows ; Feeding Behavior ; Hawaii ; New Caledonia ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, }
@article {pmid31749726, year = {2019}, author = {Ye, T and Li, P and Zhang, Q and Gu, Q and Lu, X and Gao, Z and Shen, M}, title = {Relation Between Working Memory Capacity of Biological Movements and Fluid Intelligence.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {2313}, pmid = {31749726}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Studies have revealed that there is an independent buffer for holding biological movements (BM) in working memory (WM), and this BM-WM has a unique link to our social ability. However, it remains unknown as to whether the BM-WM also correlates to our cognitive abilities, such as fluid intelligence (Gf). Since BM processing has been considered as a hallmark of social cognition, which distinguishes from canonical cognitive abilities in many ways, it has been hypothesized that only canonical object-WM (e.g., memorizing color patches), but not BM-WM, emerges to have an intimate relation with Gf. We tested this prediction by measuring the relationship between WM capacity of BM and Gf. With two Gf measurements, we consistently found moderate correlations between BM-WM capacity, the score of both Raven's advanced progressive matrix (RAPM), and the Cattell culture fair intelligence test (CCFIT). This result revealed, for the first time, a close relation between WM and Gf with a social stimulus, and challenged the double-dissociation hypothesis for distinct functions of different WM buffers.}, }
@article {pmid31749114, year = {2019}, author = {Lambert, CT and Sewall, KB and Guillette, LM}, title = {Questioning the developmental effects of group size on cognitive abilities.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {47}, number = {4}, pages = {280-283}, pmid = {31749114}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; *Birds ; Cognition ; *Learning ; }, abstract = {Australian magpies living in larger social groups learned quicker and made fewer errors across four cognitive tasks compared with birds living in smaller social groups, and this pattern may be driven by a developmental effect associated with the cognitive demands of living in larger groups. While Smulders (2018, Learning and Behavior, 1-2, doi:10.3758/s13420-018-0335-0) questioned whether this group size-cognitive performance pattern was driven by motivation rather than cognitive abilities, we question whether there is truly evidence of a developmental effect and whether the relationship between group size and cognitive performance can be explained in other ways. We highlight potential alternative explanations for the relationship between group size and cognitive performance and highlight some of the theoretical issues underlying the developmental effects of group size on cognitive abilities.}, }
@article {pmid31742538, year = {2019}, author = {Valiakos, G and Plavos, K and Vontas, A and Sofia, M and Giannakopoulos, A and Giannoulis, T and Spyrou, V and Tsokana, CN and Chatzopoulos, D and Kantere, M and Diamantopoulos, V and Theodorou, A and Mpellou, S and Tsakris, A and Mamuris, Z and Billinis, C}, title = {Phylogenetic Analysis of Bird-Virulent West Nile Virus Strain, Greece.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {25}, number = {12}, pages = {2323-2325}, pmid = {31742538}, issn = {1080-6059}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*virology ; Birds/virology ; Disease Outbreaks ; Genome, Viral ; Genomics/methods ; Greece/epidemiology ; Humans ; Phylogeny ; West Nile Fever/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/*drug effects/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {We report the full polyprotein genomic sequence of a West Nile virus strain isolated from Eurasian magpies dying with neurologic signs in Greece. Our findings demonstrate the local genetic evolution of the West Nile virus strain responsible for a human disease outbreak in the country that began in 2010.}, }
@article {pmid31740861, year = {2019}, author = {Khan, A and Chawla, RK and Guo, M and Wang, C}, title = {Risk factors associated with anaemia among adolescent girls: a cross sectional study in District Peshawar, Pakistan.}, journal = {JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association}, volume = {69}, number = {11}, pages = {1591-1595}, doi = {10.5455/JPMA.295006.}, pmid = {31740861}, issn = {0030-9982}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Anemia/*epidemiology/physiopathology ; Child ; Cognition/physiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Exercise Test ; Female ; Heart Rate/physiology ; Hemoglobins/analysis ; Humans ; Literacy/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Pakistan/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To assess the risk factors associated with anaemia among adolescent girls.<br><br>METHODS: The cross-sectional study was conducted at 10 schools in district Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, and comprised adolescent girls aged 10-14 years who were divided into two equal groups on the basis of haemoglobin levels; group 1 had those with haemoglobin <12, and group 2 &#xf0b3;12gm/dl. Anthropometric measurements were taken and haemoglobin concentration was determined by the Hemo'cue method. Physical activity was determined by Modified Harvard step test, cognitive functions were assessed by Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices. SPSS 16 was used for data analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: Of the 100 subjects, 50(50%) each were in the two groups. Illiteracy rate was significantly higher among the fathers and mothers of group 1 girls (p&#xf0a3;0.05). Mean haemoglobin in group 1 was 10.28&#xb1;1.33 g/dl and group 2 12.73&#xb1;0.58 g/dl. Mean number of steps climbed by group 1 girls were 154.6&#xb1;54.6 and a longer period of time was taken to recover the basal pulse rate by them compared to group 2 counterparts (p&#xf0a3;0.05). The mean resting pulse rate in group 1 was significantly higher compared to group 2 (p&#xf0a3;0.05). Also, group 1 scored significantly lower in the cognitive function test(p&#xf0a3;0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Socio-economic status, parent education, body mass index, physical work capacity, cogn itive func tion of anaemic girls was significa ntly lower than non anaemic girls.}, }
@article {pmid31736887, year = {2019}, author = {Du, J and Luo, J and Huang, J and Wang, C and Li, M and Wang, B and Wang, B and Chang, H and Ji, J and Sen, K and He, H}, title = {Emergence of Genetic Diversity and Multi-Drug Resistant Campylobacter jejuni From Wild Birds in Beijing, China.}, journal = {Frontiers in microbiology}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {2433}, pmid = {31736887}, issn = {1664-302X}, abstract = {Campylobacter jejuni (C. jejuni) is considered as an opportunistic zoonotic pathogen that may cause gastroenteritis in humans and other animals. Wild birds may be as potential vectors of C. jejuni around urban and suburban areas. Here, 520 samples were collected from 33 wild bird species in urban and suburban areas, Beijing. In total 57 C. jejuni were isolated from seven species. It was found that Nineteen (33.33%, 19/57) isolates were resistant to at least one of 11 antibiotics, especially streptomycin (36.84%) and four isolates resistant to all. Nineteen (33.33%, 19/57) isolates were multi-drug resistance. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) analysis of the isolates showed that 36 different sequence types (STs) belonged to four Clonal complexes and unassigned. Twenty STs (55.56%) and six alleles among them were first detected. Virulence genes including flaA, cadF, and the cytolethal distending toxin (CDT) gene cluster, were detected in all isolates, but truncated cdt gene clusters only detected in the isolates from the crow, daurian jackdaw and silver pheasant. In conclusion, it was the first detection of C. jejuni involved truncated cdt gene clusters from the silver pheasant. These wild birds around urban and suburban areas may pose potential public health problems as reservoir vectors of C. jejuni.}, }
@article {pmid31735150, year = {2020}, author = {Nieder, A and Mooney, R}, title = {The neurobiology of innate, volitional and learned vocalizations in mammals and birds.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {375}, number = {1789}, pages = {20190054}, pmid = {31735150}, issn = {1471-2970}, support = {R01 DC013826/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH117778/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 NS099288/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Emotions ; Female ; Humans ; Language ; Learning/*physiology ; Male ; Mammals ; Motor Cortex ; *Neurobiology ; Neurons ; Phylogeny ; Primates ; Prosencephalon/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Songbirds/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; Volition/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Vocalization is an ancient vertebrate trait essential to many forms of communication, ranging from courtship calls to free verse. Vocalizations may be entirely innate and evoked by sexual cues or emotional state, as with many types of calls made in primates, rodents and birds; volitional, as with innate calls that, following extensive training, can be evoked by arbitrary sensory cues in non-human primates and corvid songbirds; or learned, acoustically flexible and complex, as with human speech and the courtship songs of oscine songbirds. This review compares and contrasts the neural mechanisms underlying innate, volitional and learned vocalizations, with an emphasis on functional studies in primates, rodents and songbirds. This comparison reveals both highly conserved and convergent mechanisms of vocal production in these different groups, despite their often vast phylogenetic separation. This similarity of central mechanisms for different forms of vocal production presents experimentalists with useful avenues for gaining detailed mechanistic insight into how vocalizations are employed for social and sexual signalling, and how they can be modified through experience to yield new vocal repertoires customized to the individual's social group. This article is part of the theme issue 'What can animal communication teach us about human language?'}, }
@article {pmid31734863, year = {2020}, author = {Gjerde, B and de la Fuente, C and Alunda, JM and Luzón, M}, title = {Molecular characterisation of five Sarcocystis species in domestic sheep (Ovis aries) from Spain.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {119}, number = {1}, pages = {215-231}, pmid = {31734863}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Animals ; Cyclooxygenase 1/genetics ; DNA, Protozoan/genetics ; Female ; Phylogeny ; Protozoan Proteins/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; Sarcocystis/*classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Sarcocystosis/epidemiology/parasitology/*veterinary ; Sequence Analysis, DNA/veterinary ; Sheep ; Sheep Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology ; Sheep, Domestic ; Spain/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {The major aim of the present study was to determine by molecular methods whether the wide and narrow types of macroscopic sarcocysts in Spanish sheep belonged to different species, that is, Sarcocystis gigantea and Sarcocystis medusiformis, respectively. Additionally, we wanted to identify and characterize molecularly the species forming microscopic sarcocysts and determine the phylogenetic placement of all species found. Portions of the oesophagus, diaphragm and hind legs containing macroscopic sarcocysts were collected from slaughtered culled ewes at an abattoir in the Province of Madrid, Central Spain, but both macroscopic and microscopic sarcocysts were isolated for molecular examination. Genomic DNA from 63 sarcocysts (21 macroscopic, 42 microscopic) were examined at the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene (cox1), while selected isolates of each species found were further examined at the 18S and 28S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. The 63 sarcocysts comprised five cox1 sequence types, each corresponding to a particular sarcocyst type, and thus represented five Sarcocystis spp. The slender fusiform and thick macrocysts belonged to S. medusiformis and S. gigantea, respectively. The microscopic sarcocysts belonged to Sarcocystis arieticanis, Sarcocystis tenella and a Sarcocystis mihoensis-like species with slanting thorn-like cyst wall protrusions, which was characterised molecularly for the first time. Based on its phylogenetic position, the S. mihoensis-like species probably uses corvids as definitive hosts.}, }
@article {pmid31729384, year = {2019}, author = {Ling, H and Mclvor, GE and Westley, J and van der Vaart, K and Vaughan, RT and Thornton, A and Ouellette, NT}, title = {Behavioural plasticity and the transition to order in jackdaw flocks.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {5174}, pmid = {31729384}, issn = {2041-1723}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Computer Simulation ; Crows/*physiology ; Models, Biological ; Social Behavior ; Spatial Behavior ; }, abstract = {Collective behaviour is typically thought to arise from individuals following fixed interaction rules. The possibility that interaction rules may change under different circumstances has thus only rarely been investigated. Here we show that local interactions in flocks of wild jackdaws (Corvus monedula) vary drastically in different contexts, leading to distinct group-level properties. Jackdaws interact with a fixed number of neighbours (topological interactions) when traveling to roosts, but coordinate with neighbours based on spatial distance (metric interactions) during collective anti-predator mobbing events. Consequently, mobbing flocks exhibit a dramatic transition from disordered aggregations to ordered motion as group density increases, unlike transit flocks where order is independent of density. The relationship between group density and group order during this transition agrees well with a generic self-propelled particle model. Our results demonstrate plasticity in local interaction rules and have implications for both natural and artificial collective systems.}, }
@article {pmid31726310, year = {2020}, author = {Sarker, S and Batinovic, S and Talukder, S and Das, S and Park, F and Petrovski, S and Forwood, JK and Helbig, KJ and Raidal, SR}, title = {Molecular characterisation of a novel pathogenic avipoxvirus from the Australian magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen).}, journal = {Virology}, volume = {540}, number = {}, pages = {1-16}, doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2019.11.005}, pmid = {31726310}, issn = {1096-0341}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Avipoxvirus/*classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification/ultrastructure ; Base Sequence ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Birds/*virology ; Computational Biology/methods ; Data Curation ; Evolution, Molecular ; Genome, Viral ; Genomics/methods ; Phylogeny ; Poxviridae Infections/*veterinary ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; }, abstract = {Avipoxviruses are significant pathogens infecting a wide range of wild and domestic bird species globally. Here, we describe a novel genome sequence of magpiepox virus (MPPV) isolated from an Australian magpie. In the present study, histopathologically confirmed cutaneous pox lesions were used for transmission electron microscopic analysis, which demonstrated brick-shaped virions with regular spaced thread-like ridges, indicative of likely infectious particles. Subsequent analysis of the recovered MPPV genome positioned phylogenetically to a distinct sub-clade with the recently isolated avipoxvirus genome sequences from shearwater and canary bird species, and demonstrates a high degree of sequence similarity with CNPV (96.14%) and SWPV-2 (95.87%). The novel MPPV complete genome is missing 19 genes with a further 41 genes being truncated/fragmented compared to SWPV-2 and contains nine predicted unique genes. This is the first avipoxvirus complete genome sequence that infects Australian magpie.}, }
@article {pmid31725325, year = {2020}, author = {Kenny, SC}, title = {Capturing Racial Pathology: American Medical Photography in the Era of Jim Crow.}, journal = {American journal of public health}, volume = {110}, number = {1}, pages = {75-83}, pmid = {31725325}, issn = {1541-0048}, mesh = {Black or African American/*history ; *History of Medicine ; History, 19th Century ; Humans ; New Orleans ; Photography/*history ; United States ; }, abstract = {This article focuses on the untapped, complicated, fragile, and fluid visual archives of the elite White surgeon Rudolph Matas, a large proportion of which was produced during the late 19th and early 20th century, a time when he was a resident at New Orleans' Charity Hospital in Louisiana and a professor of general and clinical surgery at Tulane University's Medical Department. The article's main aim is to understand the role of visual materials in the production, uses, circulation, and impact of a form of knowledge that Matas termed "racial pathology." A small but representative sample of visual materials from the Matas collection are placed in context and examined in order to make known this untold chapter from the life story of "one of the great pioneers" in American surgery. The article reveals that many of the photographs were most significant in having been produced and assembled in parallel with the making, publication, dissemination, reception, and use of Matas' racialized medical research, in particular his influential 1896 pamphlet, The Surgical Peculiarities of the American Negro.}, }
@article {pmid31722895, year = {2019}, author = {}, title = {"Cellular mechanisms underlying steroid-resistant asthma." Ridhima Wadhwa, Kamal Dua, Ian M. Adcock, Jay C. Horvat, Richard Y. Kim and Philip M. Hansbro. Eur Respir Rev 2019; 28: 190021.}, journal = {European respiratory review : an official journal of the European Respiratory Society}, volume = {28}, number = {154}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1183/16000617.5096-2019}, pmid = {31722895}, issn = {1600-0617}, }
@article {pmid31717721, year = {2019}, author = {Anand, PK and Shin, DR and Saxena, N and Memon, ML}, title = {Accelerated Reliability Growth Test for Magnetic Resonance Imaging System Using Time-of-Flight Three-Dimensional Pulse Sequence.}, journal = {Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {9}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {31717721}, issn = {2075-4418}, abstract = {A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system is a complex, high cost, and long-life product. It is a widely known fact that performing a system reliability test of a MRI system during the development phase is a challenging task. The major challenges include sample size, high test cost, and long test duration. This paper introduces a novel approach to perform a MRI system reliability test in a reasonably acceptable time with one sample size. Our approach is based on an accelerated reliability growth test, which consists of test cycle made of a very high-energy time-of-flight three-dimensional (TOF3D) pulse sequence representing an actual hospital usage scenario. First, we construct a nominal day usage scenario based on actual data collected from an MRI system used inside the hospital. Then, we calculate the life-time stress based on a usage scenario. Finally, we develop an accelerated reliability growth test cycle based on a TOF3D pulse sequence that exerts highest vibration energy on the gradient coil and MRI system. We use a vibration energy model to map the life-time stress and reduce the test duration from 537 to 55 days. We use a Crow AMSAA plot to demonstrate that system design reaches its useful life after crossing the infant mortality phase.}, }
@article {pmid31712656, year = {2019}, author = {Krasheninnikova, A and Brucks, D and Buffenoir, N and Rivas Blanco, D and Soulet, D and von Bayern, A}, title = {Parrots do not show inequity aversion.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {16416}, pmid = {31712656}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Parrots ; *Social Behavior ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Inequity aversion, the negative reaction to unequal treatment, is considered a mechanism for stabilizing cooperative interactions between non-kin group members. However, this might only be adaptive for species that switch cooperative partners. Utilizing a comparative approach, inequity aversion has been assessed in many mammalian species and recently also in corvids and one parrot species, kea, revealing mixed results. To broaden our knowledge about the phylogenetic distribution of inequity aversion, we tested four parrot species in the token exchange paradigm. We varied the quality of rewards delivered to dyads of birds, as well as the effort required to obtain a reward. Blue-headed macaws and African grey parrots showed no reaction to being rewarded unequally. The bigger macaws were less willing to exchange tokens in the "unequal" condition compared to the "equal high" condition in which both birds obtained high quality rewards, but a closer examination of the results and the findings from the control conditions reveal that inequity aversion does not account for it. None of the species responded to inequity in terms of effort. Parrots may not exhibit inequity aversion due to interdependence on their life-long partner and the high costs associated with finding a new partner.}, }
@article {pmid31706170, year = {2019}, author = {Tallarita, GM and Parente, A and Giovagnoli, AR}, title = {The visuospatial pattern of temporal lobe epilepsy.}, journal = {Epilepsy &amp; behavior : E&amp;B}, volume = {101}, number = {Pt A}, pages = {106582}, doi = {10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.106582}, pmid = {31706170}, issn = {1525-5069}, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Case-Control Studies ; Epilepsy, Temporal Lobe/*pathology ; Female ; Functional Laterality ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods ; Male ; Memory Disorders/pathology ; Middle Aged ; Retrospective Studies ; Temporal Lobe/*pathology ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: Unlike temporal lobe lesions, temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) has no definite effects on visuospatial functions. This retrospective study evaluated these functions in patients with TLE, aiming to clarify their relationships to TLE laterality and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-detected brain lesions.<br><br>METHODS: The Raven Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM), Attentive Matrices (AM), Trail Making Test A (TMTA), Street Completion Test (SCT), Rey Complex Figure Copying (RCFC) and Delayed Reproduction (RCFDR), and Corsi Blocks Span (CBS) and Supraspan Learning (CBSSL) were used to assess different visuospatial functions in 198 patients with TLE and 90 healthy subjects.<br><br>RESULTS: In 169 patients (83 left), MRI revealed focal temporal lobe lesions [unilateral mesial temporal lobe sclerosis (MTLS) in 88 cases]. The patients with left or right TLE obtained normal scores on the RCPM, AM, TMTA, SCT, and RCFC, but their scores were significantly low on the CBS, CBSSL, and RCFDR. The patients with MTLS obtained lower scores in comparison with the controls and the patients without lesions, whereas those with other lesions obtained low scores only on the CBSSL and those without lesions performed normally.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Temporal lobe epilepsy does not affect nonmemory visuospatial functions but significantly impairs visuosopatial memory and learning. This pattern is independent of TLE laterality, in keeping with a modality-specific memory model. On the contrary, the type of temporal lobe lesion is relevant to the severity of impairment.}, }
@article {pmid31701217, year = {2020}, author = {Zack, F and Schau, H and Dalchow, A and Rock, M and Blaas, V and Büttner, A}, title = {Lesions and characteristic injury patterns caused by high-voltage fault arcs.}, journal = {International journal of legal medicine}, volume = {134}, number = {4}, pages = {1353-1359}, doi = {10.1007/s00414-019-02173-3}, pmid = {31701217}, issn = {1437-1596}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Burns, Electric/*classification/*mortality/*pathology ; Cause of Death ; Female ; Germany/epidemiology ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Skin/*injuries ; }, abstract = {Exposure to high-voltage electric arcs as a result of an accident or by means to commit suicide can affect people's health and cause death. There are characteristic external findings that can be found on external examination. These include extensive skin burns, periorbital recesses or "crow's feet," vapor deposition of conductor material, known as metallization, and tightly spaced, roundish, crocodile skin like burns. The Institute of Legal Medicine of the Rostock University Medical Center recorded 16 deaths caused by exposure to electricity between 1990 and 2018. Six of these deaths were caused by exposure to high-voltage electric arcs and five of these deaths (83 %) showed crocodile skin like burns and one had periorbital recesses burns on the face as a result of a fault arc. To our knowledge, the present paper is the first report describing the frequent occurrence of crocodile skin like burns due to high-voltage fault arcs.}, }
@article {pmid31699762, year = {2019}, author = {Carter, MQ and Pham, A and Carychao, DK and Cooley, MB}, title = {Complete Genome Sequences of Two Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli Strains Isolated from Crows.}, journal = {Microbiology resource announcements}, volume = {8}, number = {45}, pages = {}, pmid = {31699762}, issn = {2576-098X}, abstract = {Escherichia coli strains RM9088 and RM10410 were isolated from crows near a leafy greens-growing region in California in April and July 2009, respectively. Both strains carry genes encoding Shiga toxins and other virulence factors in enteric pathogens. Here, we report the complete genome sequences of RM9088 and RM10410.}, }
@article {pmid31697448, year = {2020}, author = {Park, JY and Byun, EJ and Kim, HS}, title = {Rejuvenation of periocular region in Koreans: A multimodal approach combining botulinum toxin, fillers, and micro-focused ultrasound with visualization for optimal results.}, journal = {Dermatologic therapy}, volume = {33}, number = {1}, pages = {e13159}, doi = {10.1111/dth.13159}, pmid = {31697448}, issn = {1529-8019}, mesh = {Adult ; Asian People ; Botulinum Toxins/*administration &amp; dosage ; Combined Modality Therapy ; Cosmetic Techniques ; Dermal Fillers/*administration &amp; dosage ; Face ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Rejuvenation/physiology ; Republic of Korea ; *Skin Aging ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; Ultrasonic Therapy/*methods ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Periorbital aging involves all layers of the skin, fat, and the bony orbit. Therefore, a multimodal approach is necessary. Twenty Korean subjects who required periorbital rejuvenation were enrolled in this study. First, micro-focused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V) was performed across the supra-brow area, lateral canthus, and the infraorbital area. Next, the filler was injected into the sunken upper eyelid, lateral eyebrow, and the infraorbital area. Lastly, botulinum toxin was administered into the forehead, glabella, crow's feet, and the lateral orbital rim below the brow on the same day. Photographs were taken at baseline; immediately after treatment; and at 1, 4, and 12 weeks of follow-up. The average eyebrow height was increased by 3.5 mm, and the maximum height was elevated by 3.9 mm at week 12. Physician visual analogue scale (VAS) scores regarding the whole periorbital area and eyebrow ptosis were continuously improved throughout the observation period. Physician VAS scores for infraorbital hollow and superior sulcus deformity improved immediately after the procedure and were maintained at week 12. Adverse events were mild and transient. We believe that a multimodal approach combining MFU-V, fillers, and botulinum toxin results in significant periocular rejuvenation.}, }
@article {pmid31696744, year = {2019}, author = {Suh, DH and Park, HJ and Lee, SJ and Song, KY and Shin, MK}, title = {Superficial intense focused ultrasound on periorbital wrinkle.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology}, volume = {21}, number = {7-8}, pages = {412-416}, doi = {10.1080/14764172.2019.1689272}, pmid = {31696744}, issn = {1476-4180}, mesh = {Aged ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Face/*pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Patient Satisfaction ; Republic of Korea ; Skin Aging/*pathology ; Ultrasonic Therapy/adverse effects/*methods ; }, abstract = {The periorbital wrinkles are easily perceived evidence of aging, so become a major concern for many patients. Various treatments have been attempted to improve periorbital wrinkles, but the need for new treatments that are less invasive and more effective is still high. In this study, we evaluated the safety, clinical and histological effects of intense focused ultrasound using only a 1.5 mm transducer in the management of periorbital wrinkles. Ten adult Korean females were enrolled. The treatment effect and safety profile were evaluated up to 3 months after 1 session of IFUS treatment on the periorbital wrinkles. The mean subjective satisfaction score was 3.2 ± 0.79 (mean ± standard deviation) by 5- point scale. The mean objective clinical improvement score was highest in the fine wrinkle on the crow's feet area and lowest in the deep wrinkles of the infraorbital and crow's feet area. Histometrically, increase of collagen and elastic fiber density was observed in the all layers of dermis. No serious side effects occurred after the treatment. In conclusion, intense focused ultrasound treatment using a 1.5-mm transducer alone can significantly improve periocular wrinkles after a single treatment with a good safety profile.}, }
@article {pmid31692145, year = {2020}, author = {Jang, SI and Lee, M and Han, J and Kim, J and Kim, AR and An, JS and Park, JO and Kim, BJ and Kim, E}, title = {A study of skin characteristics with long-term sleep restriction in Korean women in their 40s.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {26}, number = {2}, pages = {193-199}, doi = {10.1111/srt.12797}, pmid = {31692145}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Adult ; Elasticity/physiology ; Face/diagnostic imaging/*pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted ; Middle Aged ; Photography ; Republic of Korea ; Skin/diagnostic imaging/*pathology ; Skin Aging/physiology ; Sleep Deprivation/diagnostic imaging/*pathology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Previous studies have demonstrated increased pore size and darkening skin color with total sleep deprivation. There are many studies of skin characteristics with short-term sleep restriction, but there are few studies on skin characteristics when sleep is restricted more than three consecutive days. This study evaluated skin changes with sleep limited to 4 hours per night for six nights.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 32 Korean women in their 40s. Skin hydration, desquamation, barrier recovery, texture, gloss, transparency, elasticity, crow's feet, frown lines, and color were measured. Individual sleep time was monitored by smartwatches. Subjects slept 8&#xa0;hours per night for six nights in week one and 4&#xa0;hours per night for six nights in week two.<br><br>RESULTS: Skin hydration was significantly reduced after 1&#xa0;day of sleep deprivation, and it continued to decrease. Skin gloss, desquamation, transparency, elasticity, and wrinkles were significantly aggravated after 1&#xa0;day of sleep deprivation. Skin texture was significantly aggravated on the fourth day of sleep restriction. Elasticity was most affected by reduced sleep, with a standardized coefficient of -.320, indicating a significant decrease over time as compared to other characteristics.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Skin hydration was gradually decreased with sleep restriction. Skin texture did not change after only 1&#xa0;day of sleep restriction. It is a new finding that elasticity decreases more than other skin characteristics with prolonged sleep restriction.}, }
@article {pmid31690210, year = {2019}, author = {Coomes, JR and McIvor, GE and Thornton, A}, title = {Correction to 'Evidence for individual discrimination and numerical assessment in collective antipredator behaviour in wild jackdaws (Corvus monedula)'.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {15}, number = {11}, pages = {20190740}, doi = {10.1098/rsbl.2019.0740}, pmid = {31690210}, issn = {1744-957X}, }
@article {pmid31685854, year = {2019}, author = {Holtmann, B and Buskas, J and Steele, M and Sokolovskis, K and Wolf, JBW}, title = {Dominance relationships and coalitionary aggression against conspecifics in female carrion crows.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {15922}, pmid = {31685854}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {*Aggression ; Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; *Social Dominance ; Videotape Recording ; Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Cooperation is a prevailing feature of many animal systems. Coalitionary aggression, where a group of individuals engages in coordinated behaviour to the detriment of conspecific targets, is a form of cooperation involving complex social interactions. To date, evidence has been dominated by studies in humans and other primates with a clear bias towards studies of male-male coalitions. We here characterize coalitionary aggression behaviour in a group of female carrion crows consisting of recruitment, coordinated chase, and attack. The individual of highest social rank liaised with the second most dominant individual to engage in coordinated chase and attack of a lower ranked crow on several occasions. Despite active intervention by the third most highly ranked individual opposing the offenders, the attack finally resulted in the death of the victim. All individuals were unrelated, of the same sex, and naïve to the behaviour excluding kinship, reproduction, and social learning as possible drivers. Instead, the coalition may reflect a strategy of the dominant individual to secure long-term social benefits. Overall, the study provides evidence that members of the crow family engage in coordinated alliances directed against conspecifics as a possible means to manipulate their social environment.}, }
@article {pmid31680395, year = {2020}, author = {Jeong, GJ and Ahn, GR and Park, SJ and Hong, JY and Kim, BJ}, title = {A randomized, patient/evaluator-blinded, split-face study to compare the efficacy and safety of polycaprolactone and polynucleotide fillers in the correction of crow's feet: The latest biostimulatory dermal filler for crow's feet.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {19}, number = {7}, pages = {1593-1599}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.13199}, pmid = {31680395}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {*Dermal Fillers/adverse effects ; Humans ; Polyesters ; Polynucleotides ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: No data on the clinical results and safety profiles of the polycaprolactone (PCL) -based dermal filler for crow's feet correction have been published.<br><br>AIMS: This study was designed to compare the efficacy and safety of a novel PCL-based dermal filler, DLMR01, with that of RJR, a purified polynucleotide dermal filler.<br><br>PATIENTS/METHODS: A total of 30 subjects with symmetric crow's feet of 2-4 points on the Crow's Feet Grading Scale (CFGS) were enrolled in this randomized, patient/evaluator-blinded, split-face study. Each subject was randomized to receive injections of DLMR01 or RJR in their right or left crow's feet. At 4 and 12&#xa0;weeks, all participants were evaluated via CFGS, Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), and PRIMOS software system.<br><br>RESULTS: No significant difference in CFGS, GAIS, and Ra value was detected between DLMR01 side and RJR at 12&#xa0;weeks (improvement rate in CFGS from baseline at week 12-DLMR01: 48.28% [14/29], RJR: 41.38% [12/29]).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The novel PCL-based dermal filler DLMR01 shows suitable efficacy and safety, widening the selection possibilities for clinicians and patients in the treatment crow's feet.}, }
@article {pmid31668669, year = {2020}, author = {Tanner, EM and Hallerbäck, MU and Wikström, S and Lindh, C and Kiviranta, H and Gennings, C and Bornehag, CG}, title = {Early prenatal exposure to suspected endocrine disruptor mixtures is associated with lower IQ at age seven.}, journal = {Environment international}, volume = {134}, number = {}, pages = {105185}, doi = {10.1016/j.envint.2019.105185}, pmid = {31668669}, issn = {1873-6750}, support = {R01 ES028811/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Benzhydryl Compounds ; Child ; Endocrine Disruptors ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Mothers ; Pregnancy ; *Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects ; Triclosan ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are xenobiotics with the ability to interfere with hormone action, even at low levels. Prior environmental epidemiology studies link numerous suspected EDCs, including phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), to adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. However, results for some chemicals were inconsistent and most assessed one chemical at a time.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the overall impact of prenatal exposure to an EDC mixture on neurodevelopment in school-aged children, and identify chemicals of concern while accounting for co-exposures.<br><br>METHODS: Among 718 mother-child pairs from the Swedish Environmental Longitudinal, Mother and child, Asthma and allergy study (SELMA) study, we used Weighted Quantile Sum (WQS) regression to assess the association between 26 EDCs measured in 1st trimester urine or blood, with Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (IV) Intelligence Quotient (IQ) scores at age 7&#x202f;years. Models were adjusted for child sex, gestational age, mother's education, mother's IQ (RAVEN), weight, and smoking status. To evaluate generalizability, we conducted repeated holdout validation, a machine learning technique.<br><br>RESULTS: Using repeated holdout validation, IQ scores were 1.9-points (CI&#x202f;=&#x202f;-3.6, -0.2) lower among boys for an inter-quartile-range (IQR) change in the WQS index. BPF made the largest contribution to the index with a weight of 14%. Other chemicals of concern and their weights included PBA (9%), TCP (9%), MEP (6%), MBzP (4%), PFOA (6%), PFOS (5%), PFHxS (4%), Triclosan (5%), and BPA (4%). While we did observe an inverse association between EDCs and IQ among all children when training and testing the WQS index estimate on the full dataset, these results were not robust to repeated holdout validation.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Among boys, early prenatal exposure to EDCs was associated with lower intellectual functioning at age 7. We identified bisphenol F as the primary chemical of concern, suggesting that the BPA replacement compound may not be any safer for children. Future studies are needed to confirm the potential neurotoxicity of replacement analogues.}, }
@article {pmid31645214, year = {2020}, author = {Schoener, ER and Tompkins, DM and Parker, KA and Howe, L and Castro, I}, title = {Presence and diversity of mixed avian Plasmodium spp. infections in introduced birds whose distribution overlapped with threatened New Zealand endemic birds.}, journal = {New Zealand veterinary journal}, volume = {68}, number = {2}, pages = {101-106}, doi = {10.1080/00480169.2019.1680326}, pmid = {31645214}, issn = {1176-0710}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Endangered Species ; *Genetic Variation ; *Introduced Species ; Malaria, Avian/epidemiology/*parasitology ; New Zealand/epidemiology ; Plasmodium/*classification ; }, abstract = {Aims: To determine the presence of infection and co-infection of Plasmodium lineages in introduced birds at translocation sites for the North Island saddleback (Philesturnus rufusater), to investigate their role as Plasmodium spp. reservoirs.Methods: Blood samples were collected from introduced bird species, with a special focus on blackbirds (Turdus merula) and song thrushes (Turdus philomelos), at six locations in the North Island of New Zealand that were the origin, or translocation sites, for North Island saddleback. Where available, blood smears were examined, and blood samples were tested using nested PCR with subsequent sequence analysis, for the presence of Plasmodium spp.Results: Of the 55 samples tested using PCR analysis, 39 (71%) were positive for Plasmodium spp., and 28/40 (62%) blood smears were positive for Plasmodium spp. Overall, 31 blood samples were from blackbirds with 28/31 (90%) samples positive for Plasmodium spp. Six distinct avian Plasmodium lineages were identified, including three cosmopolitan lineages; Plasmodium vaughani SYAT05 was detected in 16 samples, Plasmodium matutinum Linn1 in 10 samples and Plasmodium elongatum GRW6 in eight samples. Mixed infections with more than one lineage were detected in 12 samples. Samples from two Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen) were positive for Plasmodium. sp. lineage MYNA02, previously not identified in New Zealand.Conclusions and clinical relevance: This is the first report from New Zealand in which specific Plasmodium spp. mixed infections have been found in introduced birds. Co-infections with several cosmopolitan Plasmodium lineages were identified, as well as the first report in New Zealand of an exotic avian Plasmodium sp. lineage, in Australian magpies. Whilst the role of introduced birds in maintaining and spreading pathogenic avian malaria in New Zealand is unclear, there is a potential infection risk to native birds, especially where distributions overlap.}, }
@article {pmid31640502, year = {2019}, author = {Ling, H and Mclvor, GE and Westley, J and van der Vaart, K and Yin, J and Vaughan, RT and Thornton, A and Ouellette, NT}, title = {Collective turns in jackdaw flocks: kinematics and information transfer.}, journal = {Journal of the Royal Society, Interface}, volume = {16}, number = {159}, pages = {20190450}, pmid = {31640502}, issn = {1742-5662}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Flight, Animal/*physiology ; *Models, Biological ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {The rapid, cohesive turns of bird flocks are one of the most vivid examples of collective behaviour in nature, and have attracted much research. Three-dimensional imaging techniques now allow us to characterize the kinematics of turning and their group-level consequences in precise detail. We measured the kinematics of flocks of wild jackdaws executing collective turns in two contexts: during transit to roosts and anti-predator mobbing. All flocks reduced their speed during turns, probably because of constraints on individual flight capability. Turn rates increased with the angle of the turn so that the time to complete turns remained constant. We also find that context may alter where turns are initiated in the flocks: for transit flocks in the absence of predators, initiators were located throughout the flocks, but for mobbing flocks with a fixed ground-based predator, they were always located at the front. Moreover, in some transit flocks, initiators were far apart from each other, potentially because of the existence of subgroups and variation in individual interaction ranges. Finally, we find that as the group size increased the information transfer speed initially increased, but rapidly saturated to a constant value. Our results highlight previously unrecognized complexity in turning kinematics and information transfer in social animals.}, }
@article {pmid31637735, year = {2020}, author = {Nielsen, T and Kreiner, S and Teasdale, TW}, title = {Assessment of cognitive ability at conscription for the Danish army: Is a single total score sufficient?.}, journal = {Scandinavian journal of psychology}, volume = {61}, number = {2}, pages = {161-167}, doi = {10.1111/sjop.12586}, pmid = {31637735}, issn = {1467-9450}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition/*physiology ; Denmark ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Military Personnel/*psychology ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {Børge Priens Prøve (BPP) was developed for the Danish Army by psychologist Børge Prien in the 1950s, as a test of general cognitive ability for use at conscription for the Danish armed forces. The final BPP (1957) had four subtests; a Raven-like matrix subtest, and three subtests measuring verbal, numerical, and visuospatial ability. The BPP is a speeded test counting the number of correct responses within 45 minutes. Thus, we consider the BPP as a measure of "cognitive efficiency" rather than a pure measure of cognitive ability. The BPP is still in use.Using techniques available in 1960, Rasch concluded that the matrices and numerical tests appeared to satisfy the requirements of the Rasch (Probabilistic models for some intelligence and attainment tests, Danish Institute for Educational Research, Copenhagen; 1960) model, while the verbal and visuospatial tests did not. Since then, there have been, to our knowledge, no published studies of the psychometric scaling properties of the BPP, partly because the practice of the Danish draft board has been to record only the total score. We examine these properties by analysis of data from two cohorts (n = 9,491), using the Leunbach (A probabilistic measurement model for assessing whether two tests measure the same personal factor. The Danish Institute of Educational, Copenhagen, Denmark; 1976) model to assess whether the sum of the four subtests provides a statistically sufficient measure of a common latent trait. Since we found only weak evidence against fit to the Leunbach model, we claim that this warrants the use of a summarized total BPP score. We examined whether BPP subscales suffered from differential test functioning (DTF) relative to samples. Weak, and for practical purposes too weak, DTF was suggested for one subscale.}, }
@article {pmid31633794, year = {2020}, author = {Kutschera, VE and Poelstra, JW and Botero-Castro, F and Dussex, N and Gemmell, NJ and Hunt, GR and Ritchie, MG and Rutz, C and Wiberg, RAW and Wolf, JBW}, title = {Purifying Selection in Corvids Is Less Efficient on Islands.}, journal = {Molecular biology and evolution}, volume = {37}, number = {2}, pages = {469-474}, pmid = {31633794}, issn = {1537-1719}, mesh = {Animals ; Evolution, Molecular ; Genetic Fitness ; Life History Traits ; Models, Genetic ; *Mutation ; Passeriformes/classification/*genetics ; Phylogeny ; Population Density ; Selection, Genetic ; Whole Genome Sequencing/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {Theory predicts that deleterious mutations accumulate more readily in small populations. As a consequence, mutation load is expected to be elevated in species where life-history strategies and geographic or historical contingencies reduce the number of reproducing individuals. Yet, few studies have empirically tested this prediction using genome-wide data in a comparative framework. We collected whole-genome sequencing data for 147 individuals across seven crow species (Corvus spp.). For each species, we estimated the distribution of fitness effects of deleterious mutations and compared it with proxies of the effective population size Ne. Island species with comparatively smaller geographic range sizes had a significantly increased mutation load. These results support the view that small populations have an elevated risk of mutational meltdown, which may contribute to the higher extinction rates observed in island species.}, }
@article {pmid31631901, year = {2019}, author = {Hudson, TB and Auwaijan, N and Yuan, FG}, title = {Guided Wave-based System for Real-time Cure Monitoring of Composites using Piezoelectric Discs and Phase-shifted Fiber Bragg Gratings.}, journal = {Journal of composite materials}, volume = {53}, number = {7}, pages = {969-979}, pmid = {31631901}, issn = {0021-9983}, support = {//Langley Research Center NASA/United States ; }, abstract = {A real-time, in-process cure monitoring system employing a guided wave-based concept for carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites was developed. The system included a single piezoelectric disc that was bonded to the surface of the composite for excitation, and an embedded phase-shifted fiber Bragg grating (PS-FBG) for sensing. The PS-FBG almost simultaneously measured both quasi-static strain and the ultrasonic guided wave-based signals throughout the cure cycle. A traditional FBG was also used as a base for evaluating the high sensitivity of the PS-FBG sensor. Composite physical properties (degree of cure and glass transition temperature) were correlated to the amplitude and time of arrival of the guided wave-based measurements during the cure cycle. In addition, key state transitions (gelation and vitrification) were identified from the experimental data. The physical properties and state transitions were validated using cure process modeling software (e.g., RAVEN®). This system demonstrated the capability of using an embedded PS-FBG to sense a wide bandwidth of signals during cure. The distinct advantages of a fiber optic-based system include multiplexing of multiple gratings along a single optical fiber, small size compared to piezoelectric sensors, ability to embed or surface mount, utilization in harsh environments, electrically passive operation, and electromagnetic interference (EMI) immunity. The embedded PS-FBG fiber optic sensor can monitor the entire life-cycle of the composite structure from curing, post-cure/assembly, and in-service creating "smart structures".}, }
@article {pmid31630344, year = {2020}, author = {Miller, R and Frohnwieser, A and Schiestl, M and McCoy, DE and Gray, RD and Taylor, AH and Clayton, NS}, title = {Delayed gratification in New Caledonian crows and young children: influence of reward type and visibility.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {71-85}, pmid = {31630344}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {3399933//FP7 Ideas: European Research Council/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cebus ; *Crows ; *Delay Discounting ; Humans ; Reward ; *Self-Control ; }, abstract = {Self-control underlies cognitive abilities such as decision making and future planning. Delay of gratification is a measure of self-control and involves obtaining a more valuable outcome in the future by tolerating a delay or investing a greater effort in the present. Contextual issues, such as reward visibility and type, may influence delayed gratification performance, although there has been limited comparative investigation between humans and other animals, particularly non-primate species. Here, we adapted an automated 'rotating tray' paradigm used previously with capuchin monkeys to test for delay of gratification ability that requires little pre-test training, where the subject must forgo an immediate, less preferred reward for a delayed, more preferred one. We tested New Caledonian crows and 3-5-year-old human children. We manipulated reward types to differ in quality or quantity (Experiments 1 and 2) as well as visibility (Experiment 2). In Experiments 1 and 2, both species performed better when the rewards varied in quality as opposed to quantity, though performed above chance in both conditions. In Experiment 1, both crows and children were able to delay gratification when both rewards were visible. In Experiment 2, 5-year-old children outperformed 3- and 4-year olds, though overall children still performed well, while the crows struggled when reward visibility was manipulated, a result which may relate to difficulties in tracking the experimenters' hands during baiting. We discuss these findings in relation to the role of contextual issues on self-control when making species comparisons and investigating the mechanisms of self-control.}, }
@article {pmid31625954, year = {2020}, author = {Palm, MD and Few, J and Patel, T and Safa, M and Drinkwater, A and Mao, C and Garcia, JK}, title = {Efficacy, Patient-Reported Outcomes, and Safety for Millennial Subjects Treated With OnabotulinumtoxinA for Moderate to Severe Horizontal Forehead Lines.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {46}, number = {5}, pages = {653-661}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000002216}, pmid = {31625954}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Female ; *Forehead ; Humans ; Male ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Patient Reported Outcome Measures ; Patient Satisfaction ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Millennials (aged 18-34 years) represent a growing segment of the facial aesthetic market.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate investigator-assessed efficacy, patient-reported outcomes (PROs), and safety for millennials versus subjects aged at least 35 years after onabotulinumtoxinA treatment of forehead lines (FHL) across 2 phase 3 studies.<br><br>METHODS: Eligible subjects with moderate to severe FHL received onabotulinumtoxinA (FHL: 20 U; glabellar lines: 20 U, with/without 24 U in crow's feet line regions) or placebo. All findings were pooled by the age group.<br><br>RESULTS: Millennials composed 15% of subjects (176/1,178). Day 30 responder rates of at least 1-grade Facial Wrinkle Scale improvement in FHL severity for millennials versus subjects aged 35 years and older were 100% versus 97.8% at maximum eyebrow elevation and 78.4% versus 83.5% at rest, respectively. Responder rates were significantly greater with onabotulinumtoxinA than placebo (p &#x2264; .015) for both groups through Day 180. Similar trends were observed for achieving none/mild severity. Both age groups reported high satisfaction rates and improved psychological impacts with onabotulinumtoxinA treatment. No new safety signals were detected.<br><br>CONCLUSION: OnabotulinumtoxinA treatment was well tolerated, and both age groups experienced significant improvements in FHL severity, high satisfaction, and improved psychological impacts after treatment. Millennials reported numerically greater improvements.}, }
@article {pmid31622915, year = {2019}, author = {Held, S and Hallett, J and Schure, M and Knows His Gun McCormick, A and Allen, S and Milne-Price, S and Trottier, C and Bull Shows, B and Other Medicine, L and Inouye, J}, title = {Improving chronic illness self-management with the Apsáalooke Nation: Development of the Báa nnilah program.}, journal = {Social science &amp; medicine (1982)}, volume = {242}, number = {}, pages = {112583}, pmid = {31622915}, issn = {1873-5347}, support = {P20 GM103474/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; U01 MD010619/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; U54 GM104944/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Chronic Disease/ethnology/psychology/*therapy ; Community-Based Participatory Research ; Humans ; Indians, North American/ethnology/*psychology/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Interviews as Topic/methods ; Montana/ethnology ; Qualitative Research ; Self-Management/*psychology/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Universities/organization &amp; administration/statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {RATIONALE: Since 1996, members of the Apsáalooke (Crow) Nation and faculty and students at Montana State University have worked in a successful community-based participatory research (CBPR) partnership, leading to increased trust and improvements in health awareness, knowledge, and behaviors. As major barriers to health and healthy behaviors have caused inequities in morbidity and mortality rates for multiple chronic diseases among the Apsáalooke people, community members chose to focus the next phase of research on improving chronic illness management.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: Existing chronic illness self-management programs include aspects inconsonant with Aps&#xe1;alooke culture and neglect local factors seen as vital to community members managing their health conditions. The aim of this study was to use CBPR methods grounded in Aps&#xe1;alooke cultural values to develop an intervention for improving chronic illness self-management.<br><br>METHOD: Community members shared stories about what it is like to manage their chronic illness, including facilitators and barriers to chronic illness management. A culturally consonant data analysis method was used to develop a locally-based conceptual framework for understanding chronic illness management and an intervention grounded in the local culture.<br><br>RESULTS: Components of the intervention approach and intervention content are detailed and similarities and differences from other chronic illness management programs are described.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our collaborative process and product may be helpful for other communities interested in using story data to develop research projects, deepen their understanding of health, and increase health equity.}, }
@article {pmid31617250, year = {2020}, author = {El-Sayed, AK and Hassan, S}, title = {Gross morphological features of the air sacs of the hooded crow (Corvus cornix).}, journal = {Anatomia, histologia, embryologia}, volume = {49}, number = {2}, pages = {159-166}, doi = {10.1111/ahe.12504}, pmid = {31617250}, issn = {1439-0264}, mesh = {Air Sacs/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Animals ; Birds ; Bronchi/anatomy &amp; histology ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Lung/anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {Air sacs are considered to be one of the controlling factors of bird behaviour and habits in addition to their roles in ventilation, regulating body temperature, swimming and flight. As a scavenger and an omnivorous flight bird, air sacs of the hooded crow were the focus of this study. Eight healthy, adult hooded crows were used to examine the morphological characteristics of the air sacs, which were examined grossly and with latex and cast preparations. In general, the morphological overview of the hooded crow air sacs is similar to other avian species. We observed nine air sacs; four paired sacs (cervical, cranial thoracic, caudal thoracic and abdominal air sacs) and one unpaired sac; the clavicular air sac. The cervical air sac communicated to the lung through the medioventral bronchus and had three diverticula; intermuscular, subscapular and subcutaneous. The clavicular air sac communicated with lung through the medioventral bronchus and had subscapular, axillary, humeral, subpectoral and sternal diverticula. The cranial and caudal thoracic air sacs were communicated with lung through the lateroventral bronchi and the both sacs did not have any diverticula. The abdominal air sacs were posterior to the caudal thoracic air sacs. The left abdominal sac was the largest air sac. The right and left abdominal sacs gave off branches to diverticula that pneumatized synsacrum. The abdominal air sacs gave off femoral diverticula behind the hip joint as well as perirenal diverticula.}, }
@article {pmid31612638, year = {2020}, author = {Daneau, S and Bourbonnais, A and Legault, A}, title = {Surrogates' end-of-life decision-making process in nursing homes for residents with a neurocognitive disorder: An integrative review.}, journal = {International journal of older people nursing}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {e12274}, doi = {10.1111/opn.12274}, pmid = {31612638}, issn = {1748-3743}, support = {//Quebec Network on Nursing Intervention Research/ ; //Research Chair in Nursing Care for Older People and their Families/ ; //Faculty of Nursing at Universit&#xe9; de Montr&#xe9;al/ ; //Minister of Education and Higher Education - Qu&#xe9;bec/ ; }, mesh = {Aged ; *Decision Making ; Family/*psychology ; Female ; *Homes for the Aged ; Humans ; Male ; Neurocognitive Disorders/*nursing ; *Nursing Homes ; *Proxy ; Terminal Care/*psychology ; Uncertainty ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The goal of this review is to analyse articles on the experience of surrogates who find themselves making end-of-life decisions for a relative with a major neurocognitive disorder in a nursing home.<br><br>DESIGN: An integrative review of the literature based on Whittemore and Knafl's method.<br><br>DATA SOURCES: This review used the CINAHL, PubMed, PsycInfo, Embase and Web of Science databases. A complementary search was also conducted via citation pearl searching, and the reference lists from the selected articles were manually verified.<br><br>REVIEW METHOD: The quality of the selected articles was assessed using the Crow Critical Appraisal Tool, and the data were extracted systematically and were then organised according to Mishel's uncertainty in illness theory. The data that did not correspond to any concept of the theory were excluded at this stage. Analysis was conducted using the method put forward by Miles, Huberman and Salda&#xf1;a.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 18 articles were selected: 11 qualitative, 5 quantitative and 1 using a mixed method, as well as 1 ethical argument. The subjects arising from the analysis of the articles were the types of decisions made, the support available for the surrogates, the role and involvement of the surrogates in the process and the factors that influence the decisions.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results of this integrative review stimulate reflection on the needs of family members involved in making decisions, as well as on the nursing practice and research. Published literature is mainly from North America, and thus, more research is needed to better understand the impact of cultural and ethnic differences in the process, which was poorly covered by the existing literature. Also, exploring nurses' involvement in supporting surrogates may eventually better equip nurses for their interventions with surrogates.<br><br>IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Describing the illness progression and the signification of palliative care to the resident with a NCD and their surrogate decision makers, as well as discussing end-of-life care preferences as early as possible are all nursing interventions that could potentially enhance surrogates' end-of-life decision-making process.}, }
@article {pmid31605623, year = {2020}, author = {Freeman, NE and Norris, DR and Sutton, AO and Newman, AEM}, title = {Raising young with limited resources: supplementation improves body condition and advances fledging of Canada Jays.}, journal = {Ecology}, volume = {101}, number = {1}, pages = {e02909}, doi = {10.1002/ecy.2909}, pmid = {31605623}, issn = {1939-9170}, mesh = {Animals ; Corticosterone ; Dietary Supplements ; Feathers ; Ontario ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {Food availability early in life can play a vital role in an individual's development and success, but experimental evidence for the direct effects of food on body condition, physiology, and survival of young animals in the wild is still relatively scarce. Food-caching Canada Jays (Perisoreus canadensis) begin breeding in the late winter and, therefore, rely on either cached food or seemingly limited quantities of fresh food to feed nestlings in the early spring. Using a 2-yr food supplementation experiment conducted during the nestling period and 40 yr of observational data on food supplemented by the public, we examined whether food quantity during early life influenced the physiology, body condition, timing of fledging, and survival of young Canada Jays in Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada. Experimental food supplementation of breeding pairs advanced the fledging date of young by 24% (5.5 d) compared to controls. In 1 yr of the experiment, nestlings raised on experimentally supplemented territories had lower feather corticosterone concentrations and were in higher body condition than controls. Across treatment and control nests, young that successfully fledged had lower concentrations of feather corticosterone and were in higher body condition than those that did not fledge. Based on 40 yr of observational data, nestling body condition was positively related to the degree of food supplementation by park visitors and nestlings in higher body condition were more likely to be observed in the population in the following fall. Our results demonstrate how food availability early in life can have important downstream consequences on metrics related to individual fitness, including first year survival.}, }
@article {pmid33366064, year = {2019}, author = {Huang, T and Zhou, L and Xu, Z}, title = {The characteristic of corvus pectoralis's complete mitochondrial genome and phylogeny analysis.}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part B, Resources}, volume = {4}, number = {2}, pages = {3513-3514}, pmid = {33366064}, issn = {2380-2359}, abstract = {The Collared Crow (Corvus pectoralis), in the order Passeriformes, it widely distributed in large areas encompassing China and northern Vietnam. It is a vulnerable bird that is of international concern. In this study, we first sequenced and described the complete mitochondrial genome and phylogeny of C. pectoralis. The results showed that the whole genome of C. pectoralis was 16,857 bp long and contains 13 PCGs, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, 23 transfer RNA genes, and 1 loop region. The overall base composition of the mitochondrial DNA was 31.13% for A, 29.52% for C, 24.46% for T, and 14.89% for G, with a GC content of 44.41%. The phylogenetic tree showed that C. pectoralis was clustered with C. brachyrhynchos and then together with other two crows in family Passeriformes. This information will be useful in the current understanding of the phylogeny and evolution of Passeriformes.}, }
@article {pmid31600649, year = {2019}, author = {Mo, L and Zheng, X and Zhu, C and Sun, Y and Yu, L and Luo, X and Mai, B}, title = {Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in oriental magpie-robins from e-waste, urban, and rural sites: Site-specific biomagnification of POPs.}, journal = {Ecotoxicology and environmental safety}, volume = {186}, number = {}, pages = {109758}, doi = {10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.109758}, pmid = {31600649}, issn = {1090-2414}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bioaccumulation ; China ; Electronic Waste/*analysis ; Environmental Monitoring/*methods ; Environmental Pollutants/*metabolism ; Halogenated Diphenyl Ethers/analysis ; Muscles/metabolism ; Passeriformes/*metabolism ; Polychlorinated Biphenyls/analysis ; Rural Population ; Urban Population ; }, abstract = {Plenty of banned and emerging persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane and its metabolites (DDTs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), dechlorane plus (DP), and decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE), were measured in oriental magpie-robins from an e-waste recycling site, an urban site (Guangzhou City), and a rural site in South China. Median concentrations of DDTs, PCBs, PBDEs, DP, and DBDPE ranged from 1,000-1,313, 800-59,368, 244-5,740, 24.1-127, and 14.7-36.0 ng/g lipid weight, respectively. Birds from the e-waste site had significantly higher concentrations of PCBs and PBDEs than those from urban and rural sites (p < 0.05), implying contamination of PCBs and PBDEs brought by e-waste recycling activities. DDTs were the predominant POPs in birds from urban and rural sites. The values of δ[15]N were significantly and positively correlated with concentrations of p,p'-DDE and low-halogenated chemicals in samples from the e-waste site (p < 0.05), indicating the trophic magnification of these chemicals in birds. However, concentrations of most POPs were not significantly correlated with the δ[15]N values in birds from urban and rural sites. PCBs and PBDEs in birds from urban and rural sites were not likely from local sources, and the biomagnification of POPs in different sites needed to be further investigated with caution.}, }
@article {pmid31598321, year = {2019}, author = {Lee, VE and Régli, N and McIvor, GE and Thornton, A}, title = {Social learning about dangerous people by wild jackdaws.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {6}, number = {9}, pages = {191031}, pmid = {31598321}, issn = {2054-5703}, support = {BB/H021817/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {For animals that live alongside humans, people can present both an opportunity and a threat. Previous studies have shown that several species can learn to discriminate between individual people and assess risk based on prior experience. To avoid potentially costly encounters, it may also pay individuals to learn about dangerous people based on information from others. Social learning about anthropogenic threats is likely to be beneficial in habitats dominated by human activity, but experimental evidence is limited. Here, we tested whether wild jackdaws (Corvus monedula) use social learning to recognize dangerous people. Using a within-subjects design, we presented breeding jackdaws with an unfamiliar person near their nest, combined with conspecific alarm calls. Subjects that heard alarm calls showed a heightened fear response in subsequent encounters with the person compared to a control group, reducing their latency to return to the nest. This study provides important evidence that animals use social learning to assess the level of risk posed by individual humans.}, }
@article {pmid31589059, year = {2020}, author = {Vanhooland, LC and Bugnyar, T and Massen, JJM}, title = {Crows (Corvus corone ssp.) check contingency in a mirror yet fail the mirror-mark test.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {134}, number = {2}, pages = {158-169}, doi = {10.1037/com0000195}, pmid = {31589059}, issn = {1939-2087}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; *Crows ; Female ; Male ; *Recognition, Psychology ; Social Behavior ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Mirror reflections can elicit various behavioral responses ranging from social behavior, which suggests that an animal treats its own reflection as a conspecific, to mirror-guided self-directed behaviors, which appears to be an indication for mirror self-recognition (MSR). MSR is scarcely spread in the animal kingdom. Until recently, only great apes, dolphins, and elephants had successfully passed this test. The range of convergence was, however, expanded by an avian species, the Eurasian magpie (Pica pica). Efforts to find MSR in other corvid species have so far failed, and with only a few studies conducted, the cause of these discrepancies is difficult to identify. In the present study, we examined the responses to mirrors and the ability of MSR in hitherto untested species: the carrion and hooded crows (Corvus corone ssp.). These crows showed a pronounced and lasting interest in the mirror; unlike many species, they did not exhibit social behaviors on their first encounters but immediately started investigating the mirror. Some crows showed contingent behaviors in front of the mirror, but none of the crows showed significant mirror-guided self-directed behaviors nor mark-directed behavior during the subsequent mark test. This lack of mark-directed behavior could not be explained by a lack of interest in the mirror nor in the mark. These findings could indicate that crows lack a concept of self, or the need for other means of investigating self-recognition and self-awareness in avian species. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid31586552, year = {2019}, author = {Wilkins, C and Clayton, N}, title = {Reflections on the spoon test.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {134}, number = {}, pages = {107221}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2019.107221}, pmid = {31586552}, issn = {1873-3514}, mesh = {Animals ; Anticipation, Psychological/physiology ; Biological Evolution ; Birds ; Humans ; *Memory, Episodic ; Mental Processes/*physiology ; Mental Recall ; }, abstract = {In this paper, we shall use Tulving's seminal empirical and theoretical research including the 'Spoon Test' to explore memory and mental time travel and its origins and role in planning for the future. We will review the comparative research on future planning and episodic foresight in pre-verbal children and non-verbal animals to explore how this may be manifest as wordless thoughts.}, }
@article {pmid31580802, year = {2020}, author = {Tamati, TN and Ray, C and Vasil, KJ and Pisoni, DB and Moberly, AC}, title = {High- and Low-Performing Adult Cochlear Implant Users on High-Variability Sentence Recognition: Differences in Auditory Spectral Resolution and Neurocognitive Functioning.}, journal = {Journal of the American Academy of Audiology}, volume = {31}, number = {5}, pages = {324-335}, pmid = {31580802}, issn = {2157-3107}, support = {K23 DC015539/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; *Cochlear Implantation ; *Cochlear Implants ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Recognition, Psychology ; Speech ; *Speech Perception ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Postlingually deafened adult cochlear implant (CI) users routinely display large individual differences in the ability to recognize and understand speech, especially in adverse listening conditions. Although individual differences have been linked to several sensory (''bottom-up'') and cognitive (''top-down'') factors, little is currently known about the relative contributions of these factors in high- and low-performing CI users.<br><br>PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to investigate differences in sensory functioning and neurocognitive functioning between high- and low-performing CI users on the Perceptually Robust English Sentence Test Open-set (PRESTO), a high-variability sentence recognition test containing sentence materials produced by multiple male and female talkers with diverse regional accents.<br><br>RESEARCH DESIGN: CI users with accuracy scores in the upper (HiPRESTO) or lower quartiles (LoPRESTO) on PRESTO in quiet completed a battery of behavioral tasks designed to assess spectral resolution and neurocognitive functioning.<br><br>STUDY SAMPLE: Twenty-one postlingually deafened adult CI users, with 11 HiPRESTO and 10 LoPRESTO participants.<br><br>DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: A discriminant analysis was carried out to determine the extent to which measures of spectral resolution and neurocognitive functioning discriminate HiPRESTO and LoPRESTO CI users. Auditory spectral resolution was measured using the Spectral-Temporally Modulated Ripple Test (SMRT). Neurocognitive functioning was assessed with visual measures of working memory (digit span), inhibitory control (Stroop), speed of lexical/phonological access (Test of Word Reading Efficiency), and nonverbal reasoning (Raven's Progressive Matrices).<br><br>RESULTS: HiPRESTO and LoPRESTO CI users were discriminated primarily by performance on the SMRT and secondarily by the Raven's test. No other neurocognitive measures contributed substantially to the discriminant function.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: High- and low-performing CI users differed by spectral resolution and, to a lesser extent, nonverbal reasoning. These findings suggest that the extreme groups are determined by global factors of richness of sensory information and domain-general, nonverbal intelligence, rather than specific neurocognitive processing operations related to speech perception and spoken word recognition. Thus, although both bottom-up and top-down information contribute to speech recognition performance, low-performing CI users may not be sufficiently able to rely on neurocognitive skills specific to speech recognition to enhance processing of spectrally degraded input in adverse conditions involving high talker variability.}, }
@article {pmid31574788, year = {2019}, author = {Miyazaki, H and Okuda, K and Ueno, K and Wada, Y and Kumegawa, S and Uemura, K and Sakata, Y and Asamura, S}, title = {Swinging Eyelid Approach to Zygomaticomaxillary Complex Fracture.}, journal = {The Journal of craniofacial surgery}, volume = {30}, number = {7}, pages = {e655-e658}, doi = {10.1097/SCS.0000000000005731}, pmid = {31574788}, issn = {1536-3732}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Cicatrix/pathology ; Conjunctiva/surgery ; Ectropion/surgery ; Entropion/surgery ; Eyelids/*surgery ; Female ; Fractures, Bone/*surgery ; Humans ; Male ; Maxilla/surgery ; Middle Aged ; Patient Satisfaction ; }, abstract = {A surgical approach to zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) fracture has not been standardized. The authors reviewed 15 cases of ZMC fractures treated with the swinging eyelid approach and evaluated the effectiveness of the technique by an observational study of Japanese patients. Results were assessed from authentic and functional perspectives: the presence of entropion/ectropion, external canthal malposition and chemosis of the conjunctiva. After a minimum follow-up of 10 months, no patients had lower eyelid ectropion, entropion or retraction. Wounds appeared inconspicuous, and a lateral canthal shape was preserved. No post-operative chemosis of the conjunctiva was observed. Each case was evaluated based on patient satisfaction about their aesthetic outcomes. Patient self-assessment is classified into 4 groups (excellent, good, fair, and unsatisfactory). Thirteen patients were assessed to have an "excellent" outcome, and 2 patients were assessed to have a "good" outcome. No patients had "fair" or "unsatisfactory" outcomes. Avoidance of scarring is a goal of every craniofacial surgeon. The swinging eyelid approach to ZMC fractures offers a simple alternative to the conventional technique. It is versatile and provides sufficient exposure to surgical fields with less visible scar because skin incision is made along the natural crease line, "the crow's feet."}, }
@article {pmid31574715, year = {2019}, author = {Saakian, DB and Cheong, KH}, title = {Solution of the Crow-Kimura model with a periodically changing (two-season) fitness function.}, journal = {Physical review. E}, volume = {100}, number = {2-1}, pages = {022403}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.100.022403}, pmid = {31574715}, issn = {2470-0053}, mesh = {*Evolution, Molecular ; Genomics ; *Models, Genetic ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {Since the origin of life, both evolutionary dynamics and rhythms have played a key role in the functioning of living systems. The Crow-Kimura model of periodically changing fitness function has been solved exactly, using integral equation with time-ordered exponent. We also found a simple approximate solution for the two-season case. The evolutionary dynamics accompanied by the rhythms provide important insights into the properties of certain biological systems and processes.}, }
@article {pmid31573430, year = {2019}, author = {Coomes, JR and McIvor, GE and Thornton, A}, title = {Evidence for individual discrimination and numerical assessment in collective antipredator behaviour in wild jackdaws (Corvus monedula).}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {15}, number = {10}, pages = {20190380}, pmid = {31573430}, issn = {1744-957X}, support = {BB/H021817/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/H021817/2/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; }, abstract = {Collective responses to threats occur throughout the animal kingdom but little is known about the cognitive processes underpinning them. Antipredator mobbing is one such response. Approaching a predator may be highly risky, but the individual risk declines and the likelihood of repelling the predator increases in larger mobbing groups. The ability to appraise the number of conspecifics involved in a mobbing event could therefore facilitate strategic decisions about whether to join. Mobs are commonly initiated by recruitment calls, which may provide valuable information to guide decision-making. We tested whether the number of wild jackdaws responding to recruitment calls was influenced by the number of callers. As predicted, playbacks simulating three or five callers tended to recruit more individuals than playbacks of one caller. Recruitment also substantially increased if recruits themselves produced calls. These results suggest that jackdaws use individual vocal discrimination to assess the number of conspecifics involved in initiating mobbing events, and use this information to guide their responses. Our results show support for the use of numerical assessment in antipredator mobbing responses and highlight the need for a greater understanding of the cognitive processes involved in collective behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid31572995, year = {2019}, author = {Sajan, SM and Ajayan, N and Nair, GD and Lionel, KR and Hrishi, AP}, title = {Anaesthetic Challenges in a Rare Syndrome: Perioperative Management of a Patient with POEMS Syndrome Who Underwent Umbilical Hernioplasty.}, journal = {Turkish journal of anaesthesiology and reanimation}, volume = {47}, number = {5}, pages = {420-422}, pmid = {31572995}, issn = {2667-677X}, abstract = {Polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal gammopathy, and skin changes (POEMS) syndrome also known as 'Crow Fukase syndrome' is a rare paraneoplastic disorder, first described by Crow and Fukase with distinctive features of polyradiculoneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal gammopathy and skin changes. There is a paucity of literature about anaesthetic management of patients with POEMS syndrome with isolated case reports of surgery under general anaesthesia and central neuraxial blockade. We present here the anaesthetic management of a patient with POEMS syndrome posted for umbilical hernia repair, which was successfully managed with a transverse abdominis plane (TAP) block.}, }
@article {pmid31572597, year = {2019}, author = {Annan, RA and Apprey, C and Asamoah-Boakye, O and Okonogi, S and Yamauchi, T and Sakurai, T}, title = {The relationship between dietary micronutrients intake and cognition test performance among school-aged children in government-owned primary schools in Kumasi metropolis, Ghana.}, journal = {Food science &amp; nutrition}, volume = {7}, number = {9}, pages = {3042-3051}, pmid = {31572597}, issn = {2048-7177}, abstract = {Nutrients are critical for optimal brain development, and good nutritional status is associated with cognitive development and improvement. The relationship between micronutrients intake and cognition in Ghanaian school-aged children has not been studied. The study investigated dietary intakes of micronutrients and cognition test performance of school-aged children. A cross-sectional study was undertaken among 438 school children, aged 9-13 years from ten randomly selected basic schools in Kumasi, Ghana. Socio-demographic data were obtained from a structured questionnaire. Dietary intakes of iron, zinc, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin A were determined from repeated 24-hr dietary recall data from 351 children, while cognition test was performed using a Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM), a 36-question test. Among 351 children, 156 (44.4%) had inadequate zinc intake, whereas 96 (27.4%) had inadequate iron intake. More than 1 in 2 children had inadequate vitamin A intake while 55.8% and 53.0% had inadequate vitamin B12 and folate intakes, respectively. More school-aged boys (66.3%) than girls (46.8%) had inadequate vitamin B12 intake (χ [2] = 13.393, p < .001), while for iron, folate, vitamin B6, zinc, and vitamin A, the differences were not significant. Mean RCPM test score differed significantly between school type (p < .001), but did not differ between the different ages, and between children with adequate and inadequate iron, zinc, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, and vitamin A intakes, except for folate intake (p = .050). Weak positive significant associations were observed between RCPM test score and zinc and folate intakes (p = .050). Dietary micronutrient intakes were inadequate in majority of these children, which put them at risk of weakened immune system and poor health, but did not show significant associations with RCPM performance. Further studies using other forms of cognition tests may help confirm our findings, and provide the impetus for the necessary interventions.}, }
@article {pmid31567156, year = {2020}, author = {Poole, KG and Jordan, BL and Bostwick, JM}, title = {Mission Drift: Are Medical School Admissions Committees Missing the Mark on Diversity?.}, journal = {Academic medicine : journal of the Association of American Medical Colleges}, volume = {95}, number = {3}, pages = {357-360}, doi = {10.1097/ACM.0000000000003006}, pmid = {31567156}, issn = {1938-808X}, mesh = {Adult ; *Cultural Diversity ; Education, Medical/*organization &amp; administration ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Minority Groups/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Organizational Objectives ; *School Admission Criteria ; Schools, Medical/*organization &amp; administration ; Students, Medical/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; United States ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Diversity initiatives in U.S. medical education, following the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, were geared toward increasing the representation of African Americans-blacks born in the United States whose ancestors suffered under slavery and Jim Crow laws. Over time, blacks and, subsequently, underrepresented minorities in medicine (URMs), became a proxy for African Americans, Puerto Ricans, Mexican Americans, and Native Americans, thus obscuring efforts to identify and recruit specifically African Americans. Moreover, demographic shifts resulting from the recent immigration of black people from Africa and the Caribbean have both expanded the definition of "African American medical students" and shifted the emphasis from those with a history of suffering under U.S. oppression and poverty to anyone who meets a black phenotype.Increasingly, research indicates that African American patients fare better when their physicians share similar historical and social experiences. While all people of color risk discrimination based on their skin color, not all have the lived experience of U.S.-based, systematic, multigenerational discrimination shared by African Americans. In the high-stakes effort to increase URM representation in medical school classes, admissions committees may fail to look beyond the surface of phenotype, thus missing the original intent of diversity initiatives while simultaneously conflating all people of color, disregarding their divergent historical and social experiences. In this Perspective, the authors contend that medical school admissions committees must show greater discernment in their holistic reviews of black applicants if historical wrongs and continued underrepresentation of African Americans in medicine are to be redressed.}, }
@article {pmid31567038, year = {2020}, author = {Latas, P and Auckland, LD and Teel, PD and Hamer, SA}, title = {ARGAS (PERSICARGAS) GIGANTEUS SOFT TICK INFECTION WITH RICKETTSIA HOOGSTRAALI AND RELAPSING FEVER BORRELIA ON WILD AVIAN SPECIES OF THE DESERT SOUTHWEST, USA.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {56}, number = {1}, pages = {113-125}, pmid = {31567038}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Arachnid Vectors ; Argas/*microbiology ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology ; Birds/parasitology ; Borrelia/*isolation &amp; purification ; Rickettsia/*isolation &amp; purification ; Southwestern United States/epidemiology ; Species Specificity ; Tick Infestations/parasitology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {Changing climatic conditions and the northward expansion of ticks and pathogens are of immense importance to human, animal, and environmental health assessment and risk management. From 2014 through 2015, a wildlife rehabilitation center in south-central Arizona, US noted soft ticks (Argasidae) infesting 23 birds, including Cooper's Hawks (Accipiter cooperii), Gray Hawks (Buteo plagiatus), Harris's Hawks (Parabuteo unicinctus), Red-tailed Hawks (Buteo jamaicensis), Great Horned Owls (Bubo virginianus), Common Ravens (Corvus corax), and a Greater Roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus), during the late summer seasonal rainy seasons. The parasites numbered in the hundreds on individual birds. Infested birds were moribund, obtunded, or paralyzed on presentation, with no prior histories of illness or evidence of trauma. Tick and avian blood samples were collected for vector-borne pathogen analysis focusing on the molecular detection of Rickettsia and Borrelia species. Ticks were identified as the neotropical species of soft tick, Argas (Persicargas) giganteus; their occurrence in the southern US on raptors represented an expansion of host range. Pathogen testing of ticks showed that 41% of 54 ticks were infected with Rickettsia hoogstraalii and 23% of 26 ticks were infected with a relapsing fever Borrelia; both agents are associated with uncertain health consequences. Among the blood samples, one was infected with the same Borrelia spp.; this Red-tailed Hawk also had Borrelia-positive ticks. With supportive therapy, the majority of birds, 74% (17/23), recovered and were released or permanent residents. The management of soft tick-infested birds and mitigation of future disease risk will require additional characterizations of these poorly studied soft ticks and their associated pathogens.}, }
@article {pmid31565563, year = {2019}, author = {Forti, LR and Haddad, CFB and Leite, F and Drummond, LO and de Assis, C and Crivellari, LB and Mello, CM and Garcia, PCA and Zornosa-Torres, C and Toledo, LF}, title = {Notes on vocalizations of Brazilian amphibians IV: advertisement calls of 20 Atlantic Forest frog species.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {e7612}, pmid = {31565563}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {Bioacoustics is a powerful tool used for anuran species diagnoses, given that advertisement calls are signals related to specific recognition and mate attraction. Thus, call descriptions can support species taxonomy. In spite of that, call descriptions are lacking for many species, delaying advances in biodiversity research. Here, we describe the advertisement calls of 20 anuran species from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. We accessed 50 digital recordings deposited in the Fonoteca Neotropical Jacques Vielliard. Acoustic analyses were carried out in the software Raven pro 1.5. We provide a general comparison of call structure among species inside taxonomic groups and genera. The vocalizations described here belong to poorly known species, which are representatives of six families: Brachycephalidae, Bufonidae, Ceratophryidae, Cycloramphidae, Hylidae, and Phyllomedusidae. Despite this, still there are 163 species of anurans from Atlantic Forest with calls not formally described. Our work represents an important step in providing data for a taxonomic perspective and improving the knowledge of the Atlantic Forest anuran diversity.}, }
@article {pmid31553230, year = {2020}, author = {Galal, TM and Al-Sodany, YM and Al-Yasi, HM}, title = {Phytostabilization as a phytoremediation strategy for mitigating water pollutants by the floating macrophyte Ludwigia stolonifera (Guill. &amp; Perr.) P.H. Raven.}, journal = {International journal of phytoremediation}, volume = {22}, number = {4}, pages = {373-382}, doi = {10.1080/15226514.2019.1663487}, pmid = {31553230}, issn = {1549-7879}, mesh = {Animals ; Biodegradation, Environmental ; *Crows ; Environmental Monitoring ; *Metals, Heavy ; *Onagraceae ; *Water Pollutants ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical ; }, abstract = {The present study evaluated the phytoremediation potential of the floating macrophyte Ludwigia stolonifera for removing trace metals from contaminated water bodies. Forty quadrats, distributed equally in eight sites (six polluted two unpolluted sites) were selected seasonally for water, sediment and plant investigations. The leaf area, fresh and dry biomass, chlorophyll b and carotenoids contents of L. stolonifera were significantly reduced in polluted sites. L. stolonifera plants accumulated concentrations of the investigated trace metals in their roots higher than the shoots. The roots contributed to the highest concentrations of Al and Cu during spring; Fe, Mn and Ni during summer; Cd and Zn during autumn; and Cr and Pb during winter. Compared to the unpolluted sites, the below- and above-ground parts from the polluted sites accumulated higher concentrations of most investigated trace metals, except Fe. The below-ground parts of L. stolonifera had high seasonal potential for seasonal accumulation of Cd, Cu, Ni, Zn and Pb with a bioaccumulation factor that exceeded 1, the translocation factor of the investigated metals was <1. Therefore, the study species is suitable for metals phytostabilization and thus can be considered a potential phytoremediator of these metals.}, }
@article {pmid31549723, year = {2019}, author = {Kilpatrick, AM and Wheeler, SS}, title = {Impact of West Nile Virus on Bird Populations: Limited Lasting Effects, Evidence for Recovery, and Gaps in Our Understanding of Impacts on Ecosystems.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {56}, number = {6}, pages = {1491-1497}, pmid = {31549723}, issn = {1938-2928}, support = {R01 AI090159/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; *Birds/physiology ; North America ; Population Dynamics ; Species Specificity ; West Nile Fever/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The introduction of West Nile virus to North America in 1999 had profound impacts on human and wildlife health. Here, we review studies of WNV impacts on bird populations and find that overall impacts have been less than initially anticipated, with few species showing sustained changes in population size or demographic rates across multiple regions. This raises four questions: 1) What is the evidence for WNV impact on bird populations and how can we strengthen future analyses? We argue that future studies of WNV impacts should explicitly incorporate temporal variation in WNV transmission intensity, integrate field data with laboratory experimental infection studies, and correct for multiple comparisons. 2) What mechanisms might explain the relatively modest impact of WNV on most bird populations? We suggest that spatial and temporal variation in WNV transmission moderates WNV impacts on species that occur in multiple habitats, some of which provide refugia from infection. 3) Have species recovered from the initial invasion of WNV? We find evidence that many species and populations have recovered from initial WNV impact, but a few have not. 4) Did WNV cause cascading effects on other species and ecosystems? Unfortunately, few studies have examined the cascading effects of WNV population declines, but evidence suggests that some species may have been released from predation or competition. We close by discussing potentially overlooked groups of birds that may have been affected by WNV, and one highlight species, the yellow-billed magpie (Pica nutalli Audubon, 1837 [Passeriformes: Corvidae]), that appears to have suffered the largest range-wide impact from WNV.}, }
@article {pmid31547632, year = {2019}, author = {Jiménez de Oya, N and Escribano-Romero, E and Blázquez, AB and Martín-Acebes, MA and Saiz, JC}, title = {Current Progress of Avian Vaccines Against West Nile Virus.}, journal = {Vaccines}, volume = {7}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {31547632}, issn = {2076-393X}, support = {RTA-2015-00009-00-00 and E-RTA-2017-00003-C02-01//Instituto Nacional de Investigaci&#xf3;n y Tecnolog&#xed;a Agraria y Alimentaria/ ; S2018/BAA-4370 (PLATESA2-CM)//Comunidad de Madrid/ ; }, abstract = {Birds are the main natural host of West Nile virus (WNV), the worldwide most distributed mosquito-borne flavivirus, but humans and equids can also be sporadic hosts. Many avian species have been reported as susceptible to WNV, particularly corvids. In the case that clinical disease develops in birds, this is due to virus invasion of different organs: liver, spleen, kidney, heart, and mainly the central nervous system, which can lead to death 24-48 h later. Nowadays, vaccines have only been licensed for use in equids; thus, the availability of avian vaccines would benefit bird populations, both domestic and wild ones. Such vaccines could be used in endangered species housed in rehabilitation and wildlife reserves, and in animals located at zoos and other recreational installations, but also in farm birds, and in those that are grown for hunting and restocking activities. Even more, controlling WNV infection in birds can also be useful to prevent its spread and limit outbreaks. So far, different commercial and experimental vaccines (inactivated, attenuated, and recombinant viruses, and subunits and DNA-based candidates) have been evaluated, with various regimens, both in domestic and wild avian species. However, there are still disadvantages that must be overcome before avian vaccination can be implemented, such as its cost-effectiveness for domestic birds since in many species the pathogenicity is low or zero, or the viability of being able to achieve collective immunity in wild birds in freedom. Here, a comprehensive review of what has been done until now in the field of avian vaccines against WNV is presented and discussed.}, }
@article {pmid31543123, year = {2019}, author = {Madsen, TE and Wira, CR}, title = {The Future of Minor Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack: The RAVEN Approach Is Promising but Not Ready for Prime Time.}, journal = {Annals of emergency medicine}, volume = {74}, number = {4}, pages = {572-574}, doi = {10.1016/j.annemergmed.2019.08.458}, pmid = {31543123}, issn = {1097-6760}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Feasibility Studies ; Humans ; *Ischemic Attack, Transient ; *Neurology ; Outpatients ; *Stroke ; }, }
@article {pmid31542561, year = {2019}, author = {Blasco, R and Rosell, J and Sánchez-Marco, A and Gopher, A and Barkai, R}, title = {Feathers and food: Human-bird interactions at Middle Pleistocene Qesem Cave, Israel.}, journal = {Journal of human evolution}, volume = {136}, number = {}, pages = {102653}, doi = {10.1016/j.jhevol.2019.102653}, pmid = {31542561}, issn = {1095-8606}, mesh = {Animals ; Archaeology ; *Birds ; Caves ; *Diet ; Feathers ; *Food Chain ; Fossils ; Hominidae/*psychology ; Israel ; *Symbolism ; }, abstract = {The presence of fast-moving small game in the Paleolithic archaeological faunal record has long been considered a key variable to assess fundamental aspects of human behavior and subsistence. Birds occupy a prominent place in this debate not only due to their small size and to the difficulties in capturing them (essentially due to their ability to fly and their elusiveness), but also due to their possible role in the symbolic array in regard to non-nutritional elements (feathers, talons, etc.) and as reflectors of complex human-world relationships. In this study, we attempt to contribute to this topic by presenting taphonomical data of bird specimens from Qesem Cave (Israel), dated between 420 and 200 ka. Human-induced damage, including cut marks, peeling and human gnawing, has been identified on wing bones of Cygnus sp., Columba sp., Corvus ruficollis and Sturnus sp. Our evidence suggests that avian exploitation was not limited to food only-either to complement the human diet or as occasional food item-but also presumably for the use of feathers. While the consumption of birds as a dietary source seems to be evident as early as the Early Pleistocene, the non-alimentary use of inedible elements, such as feathers and talons, appears to be a practice from the Middle Paleolithic onwards. We argue that the combined nutritional and symbolic use of birds is one characteristic of the new mode of adaptation practiced already by the late Lower Paleolithic Acheulo-Yabrudian hominins in the Levant starting 400 ka. The Qesem findings point to the possible emergence of new cognitive and behavioral skills, which are followed in later periods in the Old World. Finally, we discuss the possible ontological and cosmological significance of human-bird interactions to illuminate our hypothesis regarding the emergence of a new perception of human relationships with the world as an integral part of the new Acheulo-Yabrudian mode of adaptation.}, }
@article {pmid31531169, year = {2019}, author = {Goodman, GD and Kaufman, J and Day, D and Weiss, R and Kawata, AK and Garcia, JK and Santangelo, S and Gallagher, CJ}, title = {Impact of Smoking and Alcohol Use on Facial Aging in Women: Results of a Large Multinational, Multiracial, Cross-sectional Survey.}, journal = {The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology}, volume = {12}, number = {8}, pages = {28-39}, pmid = {31531169}, issn = {1941-2789}, abstract = {Objective: Data on associations between facial aging and smoking or alcohol consumption are generally derived from small studies, and therefore, vary. The aim of this large multinational study was to determine more accurately which clinical signs of skin- and volume-related facial aging are associated with tobacco and alcohol use in women. Design: This was a subanalysis of a global, cross-sectional, Internet-based survey of self-reported facial aging. Participants: Women aged 18 to 75 years old (n=3,267) from the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom who described themselves as white, Asian, black, or Hispanic were included. Measurements: Using a mirror, participants determined their own aging severity on photonumeric rating scales for 11 facial characteristics. Linear regressions were used to assess associations between each feature's severity and smoking status (never vs. current and former smoker); smoking pack years (0 versus 1-10, 11-20, and >20 years); alcohol use (none vs. moderate and heavy); and alcoholic beverage type, after controlling for body mass index, country, age, and race. Results: Smoking was associated with an increased severity of forehead, crow's feet, and glabellar lines; under-eye puffiness; tear-trough hollowing; nasolabial folds; oral commissures; perioral lines; and reduced lip fullness (p≤0.025) but not midface volume loss or visible blood vessels. Heavy alcohol use (≥8 drinks/week) was associated with increased upper facial lines, under-eye puffiness, oral commissures, midface volume loss, and blood vessels (p≤0.042). Conclusion: Smoking and alcohol consumption significantly but differentially impact skin and volume-related facial aging.}, }
@article {pmid31526268, year = {2019}, author = {Lynn, SJ and Green, JP and Polizzi, CP and Ellenberg, S and Gautam, A and Aksen, D}, title = {HYPNOSIS, HYPNOTIC PHENOMENA, AND HYPNOTIC RESPONSIVENESS: Clinical and Research Foundations-A 40-Year Perspective.}, journal = {The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis}, volume = {67}, number = {4}, pages = {475-511}, doi = {10.1080/00207144.2019.1649541}, pmid = {31526268}, issn = {1744-5183}, mesh = {Attitude to Health ; Biomedical Research ; Foundations ; Humans ; *Hypnosis ; Psychotherapy/methods ; Suggestion ; }, abstract = {The authors summarize research findings, their clinical implications, and directions for future research derived from 40 years of study of hypnosis, hypnotic phenomena, and hypnotic responsiveness at Steven Jay Lynn's Laboratory of Consciousness, Cognition, and Psychopathology and Joseph P. Green's Laboratory of Hypnosis. We discuss (a) the accumulating body of evidence that hypnosis can be used to advantage in psychotherapy; (b) the fact that hypnosis can facilitate a broad array of subjective experiences and suggestions; (c) the failure to find a reliable marker of a trance or radically altered state of consciousness and reservations about conceptualizing hypnosis in such terms; (d) determinants of hypnotic responsiveness, including attitudes and beliefs, personality traits, expectancies, motivation, and rapport; (e) efforts to modify hypnotic suggestibility; and (f) the need to further examine attentional abilities and the role of adopting a readiness response set that the authors argue is key in maximizing hypnotic responsiveness.}, }
@article {pmid31523516, year = {2019}, author = {Silvestri, A and Morgan, K and Ridley, AR}, title = {The association between evidence of a predator threat and responsiveness to alarm calls in Western Australian magpies (Cracticus tibicen dorsalis).}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {e7572}, pmid = {31523516}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {Alarm calls are a widespread form of antipredator defence and being alerted to the presence of predators by the alarm calls of conspecifics is considered one of the benefits of group living. However, while social information can allow an individual to gain additional information, it can also at times be inaccurate or irrelevant. Such variation in the accuracy of social information is predicted to select for receivers to discriminate between sources of social information. In this study, we used playback experiments to determine whether Western Australian magpies (Cracticus tibicen dorsalis) respond to the predator information associated with alarm calls. Magpies were exposed to the alarm calls of two group members that differed in the threat associated with the alarm call: one call was played in the presence of a predator model while the other was not-in order to establish differences in the predator information provided by each caller. We then played back the alarm calls of the same group members in the absence of the predator model to determine whether magpies responded differently to signallers in response to the previous association between the alarm call and a predator threat. We found that receivers showed significantly greater levels of responsiveness to signallers that previously gave alarm calls in the appropriate context. Thus, the accuracy of threat-based information influenced subsequent receiver response.}, }
@article {pmid31522824, year = {2019}, author = {Liu, Y and Gao, W and Koellmann, C and Le Clerc, S and Hüls, A and Li, B and Peng, Q and Wu, S and Ding, A and Yang, Y and Jin, L and Krutmann, J and Schikowski, T and Zagury, JF and Wang, S}, title = {Genome-wide scan identified genetic variants associated with skin aging in a Chinese female population.}, journal = {Journal of dermatological science}, volume = {96}, number = {1}, pages = {42-49}, doi = {10.1016/j.jdermsci.2019.08.010}, pmid = {31522824}, issn = {1873-569X}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Asian People/*genetics ; Cheek ; Cohort Studies ; Cytochrome P-450 CYP1A1/genetics ; Female ; Genome-Wide Association Study ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; Risk Factors ; Skin Aging/*genetics ; Skin Pigmentation/genetics ; White People/genetics ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The progression of human skin aging has a strong genetic basis. However, recent studies have mainly focused on Caucasian populations and we have thus performed a genetic association study on skin aging signs in Han Chinese population.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To investigate genetic risk factors in skin aging in Han Chinese female, we performed a genome-wide association study.<br><br>METHODS: We collected genotype data from 1534 Han Chinese female from Taizhou cohort and evaluated 15 skin aging phenotypes by using the validated skin aging SCINEXA&#x2122; score. Genetic associations were tested by linear and logistic regression analyses and adjusted for potential confounders.<br><br>RESULTS: Six genomic regions significantly associated with a risk for skin aging were revealed : 6q24.2 (rs3804540, P=4.6&#xd7;10[-9], additive model) with size of pigmented spots on forehead, 10q26.13 (rs4962295, P=1.9 &#xd7;10[-8], additive model) with wrinkles under eyes, 15q21.1 (rs28392847, P=1.6&#xd7;10[-8], additive model) with crow's feet, 2p25.1 (rs191497052, P=5.5&#xd7;10[-9], dominant model) with telangiectasia, 13q34 (rs3825460, P=3.7&#xd7;10[-8], dominant model) with size of pigmented spots on cheeks and 16p13.11(rs76053540, P=5.0&#xd7;10[-9], dominant model) with nasolabialfold. The signal on 15q21.1 was replicated in the meta-analysis with two independent Caucasian cohorts (P=8.6&#xd7;10[-10]). We have also successfully replicated in our cohort an association between SNP rs1048943 of gene CYP1A1 (P=7.1 &#xd7; 10[-4]) and pigmented spots on cheeks previously described in Caucasian cohort.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our study has identified new genetic risk factors for signs of skin aging in the Han Chinese. This study suggests there are differences in genetic susceptibility to skin aging between Caucasians and the Han Chinese.}, }
@article {pmid31517663, year = {2020}, author = {Kawashima, M and Harii, K and Horiuchi, Y and Seidman, E and Lei, X and Hopfinger, R and Lee, E}, title = {Safety, Efficacy, and Patient Satisfaction With OnabotulinumtoxinA for the Treatment of Upper Facial Lines in Japanese Subjects.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {46}, number = {4}, pages = {483-490}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000002143}, pmid = {31517663}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Cosmetic Techniques/*adverse effects ; Double-Blind Method ; Eye ; Female ; Forehead ; Humans ; Japan ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Patient Reported Outcome Measures ; *Patient Satisfaction ; Rejuvenation ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: OnabotulinumtoxinA treatment for glabellar lines (GL) or crow's-feet lines (CFL) was previously studied in Japanese subjects.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To assess safety and efficacy of repeated onabotulinumtoxinA for moderate to severe GL and CFL in Japanese subjects.<br><br>METHODS: This 13-month, double-blind, Phase 3 study randomized subjects to onabotulinumtoxinA 44 U (n = 48) or 32 U (n = 53) for CFL and GL for up to 5 treatments (CFL: 24 U or 12 U; GL: 20 U). Outcomes included proportion of subjects achieving none/mild severity at maximum smile (CFL) and maximum frown (GL), using the Facial Wrinkle Scale with Asian Photonumeric Guide (FWS-A); proportion of &#x2265;1-grade improvement responders at maximum smile and at rest (CFL), at maximum frown and at rest (GL); subject-reported outcomes; and safety.<br><br>RESULTS: Most subjects were responders (none/mild on FWS-A; CFL: 89.6% [44 U], 84.9% [32 U]; GL: 93.8% [44 U], 98.1% [32 U]) on Day 30. Across treatment groups, responder rates were consistent over time and treatments. Most subjects were satisfied with improved CFL appearance and with treatment. Incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and treatment-related TEAEs across groups was similar. All TEAEs but one (peritonitis) were mild or moderate.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Repeated onabotulinumtoxinA was effective and well tolerated.}, }
@article {pmid31517232, year = {2019}, author = {Sense, F and Maaß, S and Gluck, K and van Rijn, H}, title = {Within-Subject Performance on a Real-Life, Complex Task and Traditional Lab Experiments: Measures of Word Learning, Raven Matrices, Tapping, and CPR.}, journal = {Journal of cognition}, volume = {2}, number = {1}, pages = {12}, pmid = {31517232}, issn = {2514-4820}, abstract = {In this data report, we describe a three-session experiment spanning six months. Several well-controlled laboratory tasks (Word Learning, Raven Matrices, and Tapping) and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), a complex but well-defined real-world task, were administered. Data are reported from 50 participants for the first session, 40 for the second, and 34 for the third. CPR is a useful domain for studying real-world performance inside the laboratory because clear performance standards can be applied to quantifying learners' proficiency covering both the first steps that need to be taken prior to the initiation of CPR (declarative knowledge) as well as the compressions and ventilations themselves (procedural skill). This research resulted in a rich dataset with a range of different measures for all participants. For all tasks, the complete set of raw data are made available along with relevant aggregate performance scores (see https://osf.io/m8bxe/). The raw data in particular will enable other researchers to explore potential analyses and modeling beyond the scope of our own. The details of the data collection protocol and available data are documented here to facilitate this process.}, }
@article {pmid31515097, year = {2020}, author = {Shekhawat, S and Saxena, A}, title = {Development and applications of an intelligent crow search algorithm based on opposition based learning.}, journal = {ISA transactions}, volume = {99}, number = {}, pages = {210-230}, doi = {10.1016/j.isatra.2019.09.004}, pmid = {31515097}, issn = {1879-2022}, abstract = {Metaheuristics are proven beneficial tools for solving complex, hard optimization problems. Recently, a plethora of work has been reported on bio inspired optimization algorithms. These algorithms are mimicry of behavior of animals, plants and processes into mathematical paradigms. With these developments, a new entrant in this group is Crow Search Algorithm (CSA). CSA is based on the strategic behavior of crows while searching food, thievery and chasing behavior. This algorithm sometimes suffers with local minima stagnation and unbalance exploration and exploitation phases. To overcome this problem, a cosine function is proposed first, to accelerate the exploration and retard the exploitation process with due course of the iterative process. Secondly the opposition based learning concept is incorporated for enhancing the exploration virtue of CSA. The evolved variant with the inculcation of these two concepts is named as Intelligent Crow Search Algorithm (ICSA). The algorithm is benchmarked on two benchmark function sets, one is the set of 23 standard test functions and another is set of latest benchmark function CEC-2017. Further, the applicability of this variant is tested over structural design problem, frequency wave synthesis problem and Model Order Reduction (MOR). Results reveal that ICSA exhibits competitive performance on benchmarks and real applications when compared with some contemporary optimizers.}, }
@article {pmid31512905, year = {2019}, author = {}, title = {"Inquiry into the correlation between burnout and depression": Correction to Schonfeld et al. (2019).}, journal = {Journal of occupational health psychology}, volume = {24}, number = {6}, pages = {616}, doi = {10.1037/ocp0000165}, pmid = {31512905}, issn = {1939-1307}, abstract = {Reports an error in "Inquiry into the correlation between burnout and depression" by Irvin Sam Schonfeld, Jay Verkuilen and Renzo Bianchi (Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, Advanced Online Publication, Apr 04, 2019, np). In the article, there were wording errors in the Results section. Specifically, we referred to imposing "constraints" when we meant the opposite, namely, relaxing constraints, such as allowing residuals to correlate. We corrected the wording errors, added chi-square statistics, and corrected four small typographic errors bearing on fit statistics (three changes of .001 and one change of .003). The results remain fundamentally the same. All versions of this article have been corrected. (The following abstract of the original article appeared in record 2019-18074-001.) The extent to which burnout refers to anything other than a depressive condition remains an object of controversy among occupational health specialists. In three studies conducted in two different countries and two different languages, we investigated the discriminant validity of burnout scales by evaluating the magnitude of the correlation between (latent) burnout and (latent) depression. In Study 1 (N = 911), burnout was assessed with the Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Survey's Exhaustion subscale and depression with the depression module of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ). In Study 2 (N = 1,386), the Shirom-Melamed Burnout Measure was used to assess burnout and the PHQ, depression. In Study 3 (N = 734), burnout was assessed with the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Educators Survey and depression, with the PHQ and the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale; additionally, anxiety was measured with the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale. In each study, we examined the burnout-depression association based on confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), controlling for item-level content overlap. In the three studies, latent exhaustion, the core of burnout, and latent depression were highly correlated (correlations ranging from .83 to .88). In Studies 2 and 3, second-order CFAs indicated that depressive (and anxiety) symptoms and the exhaustion and depersonalization components of burnout are reflective of the same second-order distress/dysphoria factor. Our findings, with their replication across samples, languages, and measures, together with meta-analytic findings, cast serious doubt on the discriminant validity of the burnout construct. The implications of burnout's problematic discriminant validity are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid31504782, year = {2020}, author = {Mugal, CF and Kutschera, VE and Botero-Castro, F and Wolf, JBW and Kaj, I}, title = {Polymorphism Data Assist Estimation of the Nonsynonymous over Synonymous Fixation Rate Ratio ω for Closely Related Species.}, journal = {Molecular biology and evolution}, volume = {37}, number = {1}, pages = {260-279}, pmid = {31504782}, issn = {1537-1719}, support = {336536/ERC_/European Research Council/International ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/genetics ; *Evolution, Molecular ; *Genetic Techniques ; *Models, Genetic ; Polymorphism, Genetic ; *Silent Mutation ; }, abstract = {The ratio of nonsynonymous over synonymous sequence divergence, dN/dS, is a widely used estimate of the nonsynonymous over synonymous fixation rate ratio ω, which measures the extent to which natural selection modulates protein sequence evolution. Its computation is based on a phylogenetic approach and computes sequence divergence of protein-coding DNA between species, traditionally using a single representative DNA sequence per species. This approach ignores the presence of polymorphisms and relies on the indirect assumption that new mutations fix instantaneously, an assumption which is generally violated and reasonable only for distantly related species. The violation of the underlying assumption leads to a time-dependence of sequence divergence, and biased estimates of ω in particular for closely related species, where the contribution of ancestral and lineage-specific polymorphisms to sequence divergence is substantial. We here use a time-dependent Poisson random field model to derive an analytical expression of dN/dS as a function of divergence time and sample size. We then extend our framework to the estimation of the proportion of adaptive protein evolution α. This mathematical treatment enables us to show that the joint usage of polymorphism and divergence data can assist the inference of selection for closely related species. Moreover, our analytical results provide the basis for a protocol for the estimation of ω and α for closely related species. We illustrate the performance of this protocol by studying a population data set of four corvid species, which involves the estimation of ω and α at different time-scales and for several choices of sample sizes.}, }
@article {pmid31502665, year = {2019}, author = {Tiukova, IA and Prigent, S and Nielsen, J and Sandgren, M and Kerkhoven, EJ}, title = {Genome-scale model of Rhodotorula toruloides metabolism.}, journal = {Biotechnology and bioengineering}, volume = {116}, number = {12}, pages = {3396-3408}, doi = {10.1002/bit.27162}, pmid = {31502665}, issn = {1097-0290}, mesh = {*Basidiomycota/genetics/metabolism ; *Genome, Fungal ; *Metabolic Networks and Pathways ; *Models, Biological ; }, abstract = {The basidiomycete red yeast Rhodotorula toruloides is a promising platform organism for production of biooils. We present rhto-GEM, the first genome-scale model (GEM) of R. toruloides metabolism, that was largely reconstructed using RAVEN toolbox. The model includes 852 genes, 2,731 reactions, and 2,277 metabolites, while lipid metabolism is described using the SLIMEr formalism allowing direct integration of lipid class and acyl chain experimental distribution data. The simulation results confirmed that the R. toruloides model provides valid growth predictions on glucose, xylose, and glycerol, while prediction of genetic engineering targets to increase production of linolenic acid, triacylglycerols, and carotenoids identified genes-some of which have previously been engineered to successfully increase production. This renders rtho-GEM valuable for future studies to improve the production of other oleochemicals of industrial relevance including value-added fatty acids and carotenoids, in addition to facilitate system-wide omics-data analysis in R. toruloides. Expanding the portfolio of GEMs for lipid-accumulating fungi contributes to both understanding of metabolic mechanisms of the oleaginous phenotype but also uncover particularities of the lipid production machinery in R. toruloides.}, }
@article {pmid31501642, year = {2019}, author = {Mikhailyuk, T and Vinogradova, O and Holzinger, A and Glaser, K and Samolov, E and Karsten, U}, title = {New record of the rare genus Crinalium Crow (Oscillatoriales, Cyanobacteria) from sand dunes of the Baltic Sea, Germany: epitypification and emendation of Crinalium magnum Fritsch et John based on an integrative approach.}, journal = {Phytotaxa}, volume = {400}, number = {3}, pages = {165-179}, pmid = {31501642}, issn = {1179-3155}, support = {I 1951/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Representatives of the Gomontiellaceae (Oscillatoriales) are rare and hence unstudied cyanobacteria with unusual morphology, distributed in terrestrial and aquatic habitats all over the world. Investigation of the group based on an integrative approach is only beginning, and to understand the actual biodiversity and ecology, a greater number of cultivated strains is necessary. However, some ecological traits of these cyanobacteria (e.g. low population densities, the absence of conspicuous growth in nature) led to methodological difficulties during isolation in culture. One species in the family Gomontiellaceae, Crinalium magnum Fritsch et John, is characterized by prominent wide and flattened trichomes, and represented by the non-authentic strain SAG 34.87. Detailed previous investigation of this strain clearly showed its morphological discrepancy with the original description of C. magnum and the genus Crinalium in general. The new isolate from maritime sand dunes of the Baltic Sea coast (Germany), however, revealed morphological characters completely corresponding with the diagnosis of C. magnum. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA sequences indicated a position of the new strain inside Gomontiellaceae. Both morphology and ultrastructure of the strain are congruous with characters of the family. Epitypification and emendation of C. magnum are proposed since the ecology and habitat of the original strain are congruent with the type locality of this rare species (sand, Irish Sea coast, North Wales, UK). We expanded the description of C. magnum by details of the filament development and specified dimensional ranges for trichomes and cells, as well as by new data about the transversely striated structure of mucilaginous sheath.}, }
@article {pmid31498539, year = {2020}, author = {Falla, T and Rodan, K and Fields, K and Bianchini, R and Mahon, C and Skobowiat, C}, title = {Novel interpenetrating polymer network provides significant and long-lasting improvements in hydration to the skin from different body areas.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {19}, number = {5}, pages = {1246-1253}, pmid = {31498539}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Administration, Cutaneous ; Adult ; Aged ; Arm ; Cosmeceuticals/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Elasticity/drug effects ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Leg ; Middle Aged ; Polymers/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Skin/chemistry/*drug effects ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Skin Care/adverse effects/*methods ; Skin Pigmentation/drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; Water Loss, Insensible/drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hydration and moisturization both impact skin quality, directly reflecting its appearance. Signs and onset of dehydration-related skin aging are region-specific and require tailored treatment to be effective.<br><br>AIMS: To test the hydrating effects of formulas containing a novel 3-dimensional 3-polymer interpenetrating network (3D3P-IPN) to deliver humectants and actives to specific body sites.<br><br>METHODS: Two clinical studies were conducted focused on the skin under eyes and body (arms/legs). Healthy women ages 25-65 (eyes) or 35-65 (body) with mild to moderate dry and aged skin were enrolled. Study product containing the 3D3P-IPN and tailored actives was applied twice daily for 8 weeks on the periorbital area and for 4 weeks on the body. Changes in skin attributes were measured by biophysical instrumentation for hydration, dark circles, skin color, elasticity and transepidermal water loss, and by clinical grading and subject self-assessment.<br><br>RESULTS: Significant improvements in hydration and skin smoothing were demonstrated in both studies. In the periorbital region, actives and humectants delivered by the 3D3P-IPN also led to significant improvements in dark circles, fine lines/crow's feet, puffiness, restoring radiance, and overall younger-looking appearance. On the arms and legs, there were significant reductions in crepiness and dullness. The arms and legs also had improvements in tactile and visual skin texture, radiance, and general healthy look. Improvements were immediate and persisted through the end of both studies.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The 3D3P-IPN provides immediate and long-lasting improvements in skin hydration and overall healthy appearance regardless of the targeted application site.}, }
@article {pmid31491815, year = {2019}, author = {Yokokura, M and Terada, T and Bunai, T and Nakaizumi, K and Kato, Y and Yoshikawa, E and Futatsubashi, M and Suzuki, K and Yamasue, H and Ouchi, Y}, title = {Alterations in serotonin transporter and body image-related cognition in anorexia nervosa.}, journal = {NeuroImage. Clinical}, volume = {23}, number = {}, pages = {101928}, pmid = {31491815}, issn = {2213-1582}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aniline Compounds/pharmacokinetics ; Anorexia Nervosa/complications/diagnostic imaging/*metabolism/physiopathology ; Body Dysmorphic Disorders/diagnostic imaging/etiology/*metabolism/physiopathology ; Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnostic imaging/etiology/*metabolism/physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Positron-Emission Tomography ; Serotonin Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins/*metabolism ; Sulfides/pharmacokinetics ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The serotonin system has been implicated in the pathophysiology of anorexia nervosa (AN). A recent report proposed that body image distortion (BID), a core symptom of AN, may relate to abnormalities of the serotonin system, especially the serotonin transporter (5HTT). Positron emission tomography (PET) studies of underweight patients with active AN reported alterations in serotonin receptors, but not 5HTT. Here, we aimed to disclose the clinicopathophysiology of AN by focusing on 5HTT and cognitive functions, including BID, in groups with active AN. Twenty-two underweight female patients with AN (12 restricting-type AN (ANR); 10 binge-eating/purging-type AN (ANBP)) and 20 age-matched healthy female subjects underwent PET with a 5HTT radioligand [[11]C]DASB. The binding potential (BPND) of [[11]C]DASB was estimated semiquantitatively, and clinical data from Raven's colored progressive matrices for general intelligence, the Stroop test for focused attention, the Iowa gambling task for decision making and a dot-probe task designed for BID were compared with the levels of BPND in different groups. [[11]C]DASB BPND was significantly decreased in the medial parietal cortex in patients with AN and in the dorsal raphe in patients with ANR compared with healthy subjects (p < .05 corrected). Patients with ANR showed a significantly negative correlation between [[11]C]DASB BPND in the dorsal raphe and performance on the dot-probe task (p < .05 corrected). While reduced 5HTT in the medial parietal cortex (the somatosensory association area) is pathophysiologically important in AN in general, additional 5HTT reduction in the dorsal raphe as seen in ANR is implicated for the clinicopathophysiological relevance.}, }
@article {pmid31490161, year = {2019}, author = {Story, SM and Vila, FD and Kas, JJ and Raniga, KB and Pemmaraju, CD and Rehr, JJ}, title = {Corvus: a framework for interfacing scientific software for spectroscopic and materials science applications.}, journal = {Journal of synchrotron radiation}, volume = {26}, number = {Pt 5}, pages = {1694-1704}, doi = {10.1107/S1600577519007495}, pmid = {31490161}, issn = {1600-5775}, support = {DE-AC02-76SF00515//US Department of Energy, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, Division of Materials Sciences and Engineering/ ; DE-AC02-05CH11231//US Department of Energy, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, Division of Materials Sciences and Engineering/ ; }, abstract = {Corvus, a Python-based package designed for managing workflows of physical simulations that utilize multiple scientific software packages, is presented. Corvus can be run as an executable script with an input file and automatically generated or custom workflows, or interactively, in order to build custom workflows with a set of Corvus-specific tools. Several prototypical examples are presented that link density functional, vibrational and X-ray spectroscopy software packages and are of interest to the synchrotron community. These examples highlight the simplification of complex spectroscopy calculations that were previously limited to expert users, and demonstrate the flexibility of the Corvus infrastructure to tackle more general problems in other research areas.}, }
@article {pmid31486682, year = {2020}, author = {Arabkhazaeli, F and Madani, SA and Ghorbani, A}, title = {Parasitological and molecular survey of scattered parasitism by trichomonads in some avian species in Iran.}, journal = {Avian pathology : journal of the W.V.P.A}, volume = {49}, number = {1}, pages = {47-55}, doi = {10.1080/03079457.2019.1662369}, pmid = {31486682}, issn = {1465-3338}, mesh = {Animals ; Anseriformes/parasitology ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology ; Canaries/parasitology ; Columbiformes/parasitology ; Crows/parasitology ; DNA, Protozoan/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification ; DNA, Ribosomal Spacer/chemistry ; Falconiformes/parasitology ; Galliformes/parasitology ; Genotype ; Humans ; Iran/epidemiology ; Melopsittacus/parasitology ; Multilocus Sequence Typing/veterinary ; Passeriformes/parasitology ; Phylogeny ; Prevalence ; Protozoan Infections, Animal/epidemiology/*parasitology ; Psittaciformes/parasitology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 5.8S/genetics ; Starlings/parasitology ; Trichomonadida/classification/*genetics ; Trichomonas/genetics ; }, abstract = {Outbreaks of avian trichomonosis are being reported worldwide; meanwhile, the genetic and virulence variations are under investigation. In this study, the occurrence and genetic variability of oral or faecal trichomonads among various avian species were investigated. Samples obtained from either the oropharyngeal cavity, crop/oesophagus, droppings/cloaca, or conjunctival swabs of avian species were inspected for flagellates. Phylogenetic analysis of partial ITS1-5.8s rRNA-ITS2 sequences from selected samples was performed to investigate the genetic diversity of the isolates. Investigation of 737 birds revealed an infection rate of 15.7% in the upper gastrointestinal tract, 7.3% in the faecal samples, and 0.7% involvement of the conjunctiva. Phylogenetic analysis of partial ITS1-5.8s rRNA-ITS2 sequences from selected samples, identified genotypes A and B of Trichomonas gallinae and genogroups A-C and E of Tetratrichomonas gallinarum. A novel ITS genotype of intestinal trichomonads was also detected in hooded crow (Corvus cornix) and common mynah (Acridotheres tristis). In the present study, in addition to Columbiformes and Falconiformes, trichomonads were detected in Passeriformes and Galliformes with the involvement of organs other than the gastrointestinal tract. Genotype A T. gallinae was detected in domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica), a laughing dove (Spilopelia senegalensis), a common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), a budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulates), and a canary (Serinus canaria). Distinct genotype B was detected in a common mynah and a budgerigar. Genogroups A-C of T. gallinarum were also demonstrated in Galliformes and Anseriformes. Furthermore, two novel trichomonad ITS genotypes were detected in hooded crows and a common mynah warranting detailed multi-locus molecular analysis.RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTSITS diversity of trichomonads was shown in various avian species.Diversity of the parasites' target organ and clinical manifestations was demonstrated.Two novel ITS genotype trichomonads from common mynah and hooded crow were identified.}, }
@article {pmid31486568, year = {2020}, author = {D'Emilio, R and Rosati, G}, title = {Full-face treatment with onabotulinumtoxinA: Results from a single-center study.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {19}, number = {4}, pages = {809-816}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.13130}, pmid = {31486568}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//Allergan/ ; }, mesh = {Acetylcholine Release Inhibitors/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Cosmetic Techniques/*adverse effects ; Esthetics ; Facial Muscles/drug effects ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Rejuvenation ; Retrospective Studies ; Skin Aging ; Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin type A injection is a common aesthetic treatment that can be used alone or in combination to rejuvenate the entire face and neck.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To assess the safety and efficacy of a full-face approach with botulinum toxin type A.<br><br>METHODS: This was a single-center, retrospective review of data from 189 patients receiving full-face and neck treatment with onabotulinumtoxinA in the following areas: glabellar lines, crow's feet lines, forehead lines, bunny lines, sagging nasal tip, gummy smile, marionette lines, mentalis, masseter, and lateral/anterior platysma.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean age was 56.6&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;9.2&#xa0;years, and 94.7% were women (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;179). Patients received a total of 394 full-face treatments (mean: 2.1 per person; range 1-7). The mean quantity of onabotulinumtoxinA injected was 113.8&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;17.6 units per treatment (range: 50-180 units). The most frequently injected areas were the glabella/crow's feet/forehead (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;383; 97.2%), platysma (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;378; 95.9%), bunny lines (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;283; 71.8%), and chin (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;120; 30.5%). Six patients (3.2%) experienced complications: five cases of unwanted diffusion from the mentalis into the depressor labii inferioris and one case of right eyelid ptosis after injection in the upper third. All were minor and none appeared to be related to overall dose.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Full-face and neck treatment with onabotulinumtoxinA can be performed without substantial safety concerns, often leading to excellent results. This approach may become increasingly prevalent in the coming years.}, }
@article {pmid31482633, year = {2019}, author = {Zeng, X and Li, X and Wang, X and Wen, X and Jiang, X}, title = {The effect of Zanthoxylum bungeanum maxim extract on crow's feet: A double-blind, split-face trial.}, journal = {Dermatologic therapy}, volume = {32}, number = {6}, pages = {e13079}, doi = {10.1111/dth.13079}, pmid = {31482633}, issn = {1529-8019}, mesh = {Administration, Cutaneous ; Adult ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Plant Extracts/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; Zanthoxylum/*chemistry ; }, abstract = {As one of the most obvious signs of aging, wrinkles have long been the concern of many people and continue to be a major topic in dermal-cosmetic industry. Accordingly, there is a need to develop products with good efficacy and safety profile. The Zanthoxylum bungeanum maxim (ZBM) extract is a natural food which may possess the property of a toxin-like botulinum. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a formulation that contains 2% ZBM pericarp extract in the treatment of wrinkles. Twenty females aged 35-60 years old were enrolled in this randomized, vehicle-controlled, double-blind, and split-face trial. The trial lasted for 30 days, when participants randomly used formulations containing 2% ZBM extract on one side of the temporal canthus and vehicle formulation on the other side. Skin roughness, skin hydration, and skin elasticity were evaluated by Primospico, Corneometer® CM825, and Cutometer® MPA580, respectively. The formulation containing 2% ZBM extract has a significant short-term anti-crow's feet effect compared with vehicle. No adverse effect was shown during the study. Topical application of 2% ZBM extract is tolerable and can be used as an effective cosmetic agent for short-term wrinkle treatment.}, }
@article {pmid31479200, year = {2019}, author = {Karakosta, P and Margetaki, K and Fthenou, E and Kampouri, M and Kyriklaki, A and Koutra, K and Chalkiadaki, G and Roumeliotaki, T and Vafeiadi, M and Kogevinas, M and Mantzoros, C and Chatzi, L}, title = {Cord Leptin is Associated with Neuropsychomotor Development in Childhood.}, journal = {Obesity (Silver Spring, Md.)}, volume = {27}, number = {10}, pages = {1693-1702}, pmid = {31479200}, issn = {1930-739X}, support = {P30 ES007048/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; K24 DK081913/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Central Nervous System/*growth &amp; development ; Child ; Child Development/*physiology ; Child, Preschool ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Fetal Blood/*chemistry ; Greece ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Intelligence Tests ; Leptin/analysis/*blood ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; Prospective Studies ; Psychomotor Disorders/blood/diagnosis ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Leptin is critical for central nervous system development and maturation. This study aimed to evaluate the potential regulatory role of cord leptin in the neuropsychomotor development of children ages 18 months to 6 years.<br><br>METHODS: This study included 424 children from a prospective mother-child cohort (Rhea Study; Crete, Greece) with available cord leptin levels and data on neurodevelopmental outcomes at 18 months (Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition), 4 years (McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities), and 6 years (Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices and Trail Making Test). Multivariable linear regression models were used to explore the associations.<br><br>RESULTS: Each 10-ng/mL&#xa0;increase in the cord leptin level was associated with increased scores on the gross motor scale at 18 months (&#x3b2; coefficient: 3.8; 95% CI: 0.0-7.5), with decreased scores in the general cognitive performance (&#x3b2; coefficient: -3.0; 95% CI: -5.5 to -0.4), perceptual performance (&#x3b2; coefficient: -3.4; 95% CI: -6.0 to -9.9), working memory (&#x3b2; coefficient: -3.1; 95% CI: -5.7 to -0.4), executive function (&#x3b2; coefficient -3.1; 95% CI: -5.7 to -0.5), and functions of the posterior cortex (&#x3b2; coefficient: -2.7; 95% CI: -5.2 to -0.1) scales at 4 years, and with a 3.7-unit decrease in the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices score at 6 years (&#x3b2; coefficient: -3.7; 95% CI: -6.9 to -0.5).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Increased cord leptin levels are associated with enhanced gross motor development at 18 months but decreased cognitive performance in early and middle childhood.}, }
@article {pmid31461006, year = {2019}, author = {Wong, CH and Mendelson, B}, title = {The Long-Term Static and Dynamic Effects of Surgical Release of the Tear Trough Ligament and Origins of the Orbicularis Oculi in Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {144}, number = {3}, pages = {583-591}, doi = {10.1097/PRS.0000000000005908}, pmid = {31461006}, issn = {1529-4242}, mesh = {Adult ; Blepharoplasty/*methods ; Eyelids/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Ligaments/*surgery ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Oculomotor Muscles/*surgery ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Release of the tear trough ligament and the origins of the orbicularis oculi is a key maneuver with many lower blepharoplasty techniques. The long-term static and dynamic effects of this release have not been studied previously.<br><br>METHODS: From December of 2012 to June of 2017, 105 patients were treated with the extended transconjunctival lower eyelid blepharoplasty with release of the tear trough ligament and fat redistribution as described previously. The long-term effect of the release was assessed by evaluating the effectiveness in correcting the tear trough deformity, the effect on the lower eyelid position, and the dynamic changes of the patient's smile.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean patient age was 41 years (range, 23 to 62 years). The mean follow-up was 31 months (range, 12 to 53 months). The tear trough was effectively corrected with this maneuver. This release did not compromise the tarsoligamentous support of the lower eyelid, with no increase in scleral show in 99 percent of patients and with no patients developing ectropion. Functionally, the change in the action of the orbicularis oculi as a result of detachment of its origins resulted in a change in appearance of the smile. Elimination of the tethering at the tear trough ligament and the downward pull toward the medial suborbital maxilla resulted in elevation of the lid-cheek junction with smiling. Reduced efficiency of orbicularis contraction resulted in a diminished pretarsal bulge and in reduction of crow's feet with smiling.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The maneuver is effective in correcting the tear trough deformity while not weakening the lower eyelid tarsoligamentous support. Functionally, the patient's smile became more youthful and rejuvenated, with less wrinkling and elevation of the lid-cheek junction with smiling.<br><br>Therapeutic, IV.}, }
@article {pmid31454343, year = {2019}, author = {Brecht, KF and Hage, SR and Gavrilov, N and Nieder, A}, title = {Volitional control of vocalizations in corvid songbirds.}, journal = {PLoS biology}, volume = {17}, number = {8}, pages = {e3000375}, pmid = {31454343}, issn = {1545-7885}, mesh = {Acoustics ; Animals ; Cognition/physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Learning/physiology ; Male ; Neurons/physiology ; Songbirds/physiology ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; Volition/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Songbirds are renowned for their acoustically elaborate songs. However, it is unclear whether songbirds can cognitively control their vocal output. Here, we show that crows, songbirds of the corvid family, can be trained to exert control over their vocalizations. In a detection task, three male carrion crows rapidly learned to emit vocalizations in response to a visual cue with no inherent meaning (go trials) and to withhold vocalizations in response to another cue (catch trials). Two of these crows were then trained on a go/nogo task, with the cue colors reversed, in addition to being rewarded for withholding vocalizations to yet another cue (nogo trials). Vocalizations in response to the detection of the go cue were temporally precise and highly reliable in all three crows. Crows also quickly learned to withhold vocal output in nogo trials, showing that vocalizations were not produced by an anticipation of a food reward in correct trials. The results demonstrate that corvids can volitionally control the release and onset of their vocalizations, suggesting that songbird vocalizations are under cognitive control and can be decoupled from affective states.}, }
@article {pmid31437959, year = {2019}, author = {Fung, KW and Xu, J and Ameye, F and Gutiérrez, AR and Busquets, A}, title = {Map-Assisted Generation of Procedure and Intervention Encoding (Magpie): An Innovative Approach for ICD-10-PCS Coding.}, journal = {Studies in health technology and informatics}, volume = {264}, number = {}, pages = {428-432}, doi = {10.3233/SHTI190257}, pmid = {31437959}, issn = {1879-8365}, mesh = {Clinical Coding ; *International Classification of Diseases ; Semantics ; *Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine ; }, abstract = {ICD-10-PCS coding is challenging because of the large number of codes, non-intuitive terms and paucity of the ICD-10-PCS index. We previously repurposed the richer ICD-9-CM procedure index for ICD-10-PCS coding. We have developed the MAGPIE tool based on the repurposed ICD-9-CM index with other lexical and mapping resources. MAGPIE helps the user to identify SNOMED CT and ICD-10-PCS codes for medical procedures. MAGPIE uses three innovative search approaches: cascading search (SNOMED CT to ICD-9-CM to ICD-10-PCS), hybrid lexical and map-assisted matching, and semantic filtering of ICD-10-PCS codes. Our evaluation showed that MAGPIE found the correct SNOMED CT code and ICD-10-PCS table in 70% and 85% of cases respectively, without any user intervention. MAGPIE is available online from the NLM website: magpie.nlm.nih.gov.}, }
@article {pmid31431538, year = {2019}, author = {Vonk, J}, title = {Emotional contagion or sensitivity to behavior in ravens?.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {116}, number = {37}, pages = {18168}, pmid = {31431538}, issn = {1091-6490}, mesh = {Animals ; Bias ; Cognition ; *Crows ; Emotions ; }, }
@article {pmid31430475, year = {2019}, author = {Colombo, M}, title = {Avian Brains: Primate-like Functions of Neurons in the Crow Brain.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {29}, number = {16}, pages = {R794-R796}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2019.07.001}, pmid = {31430475}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain ; *Crows ; Memory, Short-Term ; Neurons ; Primates ; Telencephalon ; }, abstract = {Despite the negative connotations of the term 'birdbrain', birds possess cognitive abilities on par with primates. A new study finds that neurons in the crow's brain display characteristics similar to those displayed by neurons in the primate's brain.}, }
@article {pmid31427935, year = {2019}, author = {Almquist, JN and Mathan, S and Brem, AK and Plessow, F and McKanna, J and Santarnecchi, E and Pascual-Leone, A and Cohen Kadosh, R and Pavel, M and Yeung, N}, title = {FAST: A Novel, Executive Function-Based Approach to Cognitive Enhancement.}, journal = {Frontiers in human neuroscience}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {235}, pmid = {31427935}, issn = {1662-5161}, support = {UL1 TR001102/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {The present study introduces a novel cognitive intervention aimed at improving fluid intelligence (Gf), based on a framework we refer to as FAST: Flexible, Adaptive, Synergistic Training. FAST leverages a combination of novel game-based executive function (EF) training-designed specifically to enhance the likelihood of transfer-and transcranial electrical stimulation (tES), with aims to synergistically activate and strengthen mechanisms of cognitive control critical to Gf. To test our intervention, we collected three Gf measures from 113 participants [the advanced short Bochumer Matrizen-Test (BOMAT), Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM), and matrices similar to Raven's generated by Sandia labs], prior to and following one of three interventions: (1) the FAST + tRNS intervention, a combination of 30 min of daily training with our novel training game, Robot Factory, and 20 min of concurrent transcranial random noise stimulation applied to bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC); (2) an adaptively difficult Active Control intervention comprised of visuospatial tasks that specifically do not target Gf; or (3) a no-contact control condition. Analyses of changes in a Gf factor from pre- to post-test found numerical increases for the FAST + tRNS group compared to the two control conditions, with a 0.3 SD increase relative to Active Control (p = 0.07), and a 0.19 SD increase relative to a No-contact control condition (p = 0.26). This increase was found to be largely driven by significant differences in pre- and post-test Gf as measured on the BOMAT test. Progression through the FAST training game (Robot Factory) was significantly correlated with changes in Gf. This is in contrast with progress in the Active Control condition, as well as with changes in individual EFs during FAST training, which did not significantly correlate with changes in Gf. Taken together, this research represents a useful step forward in providing new insights into, and new methods for studying, the nature of Gf and its malleability. Though our results await replication and extension, they provide preliminary evidence that the crucial characteristic of Gf may, in fact, be the ability to combine EFs rapidly and adaptively according to changing demand, and that Gf may be susceptible to targeted training.}, }
@article {pmid31421922, year = {2019}, author = {Keyes, CA}, title = {How reliable is the charred body scale? An interobserver reliability study on scoring burned remains.}, journal = {Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries}, volume = {45}, number = {7}, pages = {1673-1679}, doi = {10.1016/j.burns.2019.02.012}, pmid = {31421922}, issn = {1879-1409}, mesh = {Animals ; *Burns ; *Forensic Medicine ; Models, Animal ; *Observer Variation ; Photography ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sus scrofa ; Swine ; }, abstract = {The error rates of forensic techniques need to be evaluated. The charred body scale is a method for quantifying the level of decomposition in burned remains. 51 files containing photographs of burned pigs at different stages of decomposition were scored by nine participants. Each pig in the photographs was uniformly burned to a different level (Crow Glassman Scale levels 1 to 3). The Crow Glassman Scale describes five levels of burns that include singing of hair and epidermal blistering (CGS level 1) up to complete cremation of the body reducing it to ash (CGS level 5). The three CGS levels were selected to isolate potential scoring errors that may be caused by different burn levels (not accounted for in the development of the charred body scale). Each of the 51 photograph files was scored by participants using the charred body scale as if it were a unique forensic case at an unknown initial burn level and decomposition stage. Interobserver error, hence reliability, of the scores was tested using individual and average absolute agreement interclass correlations. The charred body scale is reliable for remains burned to a Crow Glassman Scale level 1 but not in higher burn levels. It is suggested that a universal scoring method be developed that accounts for multiple burn levels in a single case.}, }
@article {pmid31417455, year = {2019}, author = {Agnoli, S and Mancini, G and Andrei, F and Trombini, E}, title = {The Relationship Between Trait Emotional Intelligence, Cognition, and Emotional Awareness: An Interpretative Model.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {1711}, pmid = {31417455}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Emotional awareness (EA) has been defined as the cognitive skill devoted to the identification and description of one's own and others' emotional experiences, an ability that has usually been conceptualized along with the development of cognitive intelligence. Despite this, EA has also been deemed a central constituent of Emotional Intelligence (EI), a construct that captures individual differences in how we perceive, communicate, regulate, and understand our own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. The overlap between the cognitive and the emotional domain in the definition of the EA construct has created several difficulties in both its understanding and its usage, so much so that several questions regarding its nature and structure remain unanswered. The aim of the present work was to test in a unique model the explanatory role of both trait EI and fluid nonverbal intelligence on EA variability in children, controlling for the effect of age, a variable strictly related to cognitive development, as well as gender, which is highly associated with trait EI during childhood. Four hundred and eighty-eight pupils (258 females and 230 males) ranging from 8 to 12 years old completed the Levels of Emotional Awareness Scale for Children, the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire - Child Form, and a measure of pure non-verbal reasoning ability, the Raven's Progressive Matrices. The results of a structural equation model showed a positive explanatory power of both Raven and TEIQue scores on EA, revealing that both cognitive intelligence and trait EI significantly explained EA. The same model also showed an indirect effect of age, via intelligence scores, on EA, suggesting that the increase of EA with age could be partially imputed to the development of intelligence. Finally, a relation between gender and TEIQue scores confirmed higher trait EI scores in girls than in boys. The implications emerging from this model are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid31413711, year = {2019}, author = {Wang, L and Luo, Y and Wang, X and Maierdiyali, A and Chang, H and Li, Z}, title = {Azure-winged magpies solve string-pulling tasks by partial understanding of the physical cognition.}, journal = {Current zoology}, volume = {65}, number = {4}, pages = {385-392}, pmid = {31413711}, issn = {1674-5507}, abstract = {String-pulling is one of the most widely used paradigms in animal cognition research. We investigated how azure-winged magpies Cyanopica cyanus solve multiple-string problems that they have never encountered before. In Experiment 1, the strings were arranged in parallel, slanted, or crossed to investigate what rules azure-winged magpies use to solve multiple spatial relations of strings. Experiment 2 assessed whether the subjects understood the connection between the string and the bait while taking advantage of broken strings. In Experiment 3, the subjects were confronted with strings of different lengths attached to rewards in order to explore whether the string length, as a proxy for the pulling efficiency or reward distance, was crucial for the birds' choice of which string to pull. Generally, the birds were successful in tasks where the reward was close to the correct string's end, and they relied on a "proximity rule" in most cases. The results showed that azure-winged magpies had a partial understanding of the physical principles underlying the string-pulling but were stumped by complex spatial relations. They likely relied on simple strategies such as the proximity rule to solve the tasks. The effects of individual difference and experiential learning on string-pulling performance are also discussed.}, }
@article {pmid31401625, year = {2019}, author = {Mäntyselkä, A and Haapala, EA and Lindi, V and Häkkinen, MR and Auriola, S and Jääskeläinen, J and Lakka, TA}, title = {Associations of IGF-1 and Adrenal Androgens with Cognition in Childhood.}, journal = {Hormone research in paediatrics}, volume = {91}, number = {5}, pages = {329-335}, doi = {10.1159/000501719}, pmid = {31401625}, issn = {1663-2826}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Androstenedione/*blood ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Dehydroepiandrosterone/*blood ; Female ; Humans ; Insulin-Like Growth Factor I/*metabolism ; Male ; Testosterone/*blood ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Little is known about the association between adrenarche and cognition in general populations of children. We therefore studied the associations of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), androstenedione (A4), testosterone, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and adrenarche with cognition among prepubertal children.<br><br>METHODS: These cross-sectional analyses are based on baseline data of the Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children Study. A total of 387 children (183 girls, 204 boys) were included in the analyses. Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM) score was used to assess nonverbal reasoning. Serum adrenal androgens and IGF-1 concentrations were measured and clinical signs of androgen action were evaluated.<br><br>RESULTS: Higher IGF-1 among boys (&#x3b2; = 0.149, p =0.033) was related to a better Raven's CPM score after adjustment for age and parental education. Adrenal androgens in girls or boys or IGF-1 in girls were not associated with the score. There were no differences in Raven's CPM score between children with biochemical adrenarche (DHEAS &#x2265;1.08 &#xb5;mol/L; &#x2265;40 &#xb5;g/dL) or with clinical signs of androgen action and children without them.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results suggest that higher serum IGF-1 among boys is related to better cognition in prepubertal children. We could not provide evidence for the associations of adrenal maturation with cognition in prepubertal children.}, }
@article {pmid31391480, year = {2019}, author = {Probst, C and Gethmann, J and Amler, S and Globig, A and Knoll, B and Conraths, FJ}, title = {The potential role of scavengers in spreading African swine fever among wild boar.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {11450}, pmid = {31391480}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {African Swine Fever/epidemiology/*transmission/virology ; African Swine Fever Virus/*isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity ; Animals ; Animals, Wild/*virology ; *Carnivory ; Crows/virology ; Falconiformes/virology ; Female ; Foxes/virology ; Germany/epidemiology ; Male ; Raccoon Dogs/virology ; Risk Factors ; Seasons ; Sus scrofa/*virology ; Swine ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Understanding the transmission patterns of African swine fever (ASF) among wild boar (Sus scrofa) is an issue of major interest, especially in the wake of the current ASF epidemic. Given the high stability of ASF-virus, there is concern about scavengers spreading infectious carcass material in the environment. Here, we describe scavenging activities on 32 wild boar carcasses in their natural habitat in Germany. Using digital cameras, we detected 22 vertebrates at the study sites, thereof two mammal and three bird species scavenging. The most frequently detected species was the raccoon dog Nyctereutes procyonoides (44% of all visits). Raccoon dogs, red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), and buzzards (Buteo buteo) scavenged in the warm and the cold season, while ravens (Corvus corax) and white-tailed eagles (Haliaeetus albicilla) scavenged only in the cold season. In summer, however, insects removed most of the carcass biomass. Although most of the material was consumed on the spot, foxes, raccoon dogs and ravens left the study sites in rare cases with a small piece of meat in their mouths or beaks. We conclude that scavengers represent a minor risk factor for spreading ASF, but may contribute to reducing local virus persistence by metabolizing infected carcasses.}, }
@article {pmid31389672, year = {2020}, author = {Shin, S and Cho, SH and Park, D and Jung, E}, title = {Anti-skin aging properties of protocatechuic acid in vitro and in vivo.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {19}, number = {4}, pages = {977-984}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.13086}, pmid = {31389672}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {R0002895//The Ministry of Trade, industry and Energy, Republic Korea./ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Antioxidants/*administration &amp; dosage ; Cell Line ; Cell Survival/drug effects ; Collagen Type I/analysis/metabolism ; Cosmeceuticals/*administration &amp; dosage ; Drug Evaluation, Preclinical ; Face ; Female ; Fibroblasts ; Humans ; Hydroxybenzoates/*administration &amp; dosage ; Matrix Metalloproteinase 1/analysis/metabolism ; Middle Aged ; Skin/cytology/drug effects/metabolism/radiation effects ; Skin Aging/*drug effects/radiation effects ; Skin Cream/*administration &amp; dosage ; Ultraviolet Rays/adverse effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Protocatechuic acid has reported containing antioxidant effects. However, information on its other biological activities such as anti-wrinkle properties is limited AIMS: The objective of this study was to evaluate an antioxidant, collagen synthesis, MMP-1 inhibition (in vitro), and anti-wrinkle (in vivo) effects of protocatechuic acid (PCA) as a potent ingredient for wrinkle-care cosmetic.<br><br>METHODS: Antioxidant effect was evaluated based on its scavenging activity for free radicals (DPPH, ABTS+). To evaluate the anti-skin aging potency of PCA, levels of MMP-1 and type I procollagen were measured using an ELISA kit in cultured human dermal fibroblasts. To further investigate if PCA could increase collagen synthesis, full-thickness human skin explants were immunostained with an anti-collagen I antibody. In an in vivo study, 22 female subjects were enrolled in a placebo-controlled trial. Facial wrinkle, especially crow's feet around eyes, was treated with lotion-containing 0.02% PCA for 8 weeks and compared with the placebo.<br><br>RESULTS: In in vitro study, PCA showed high antioxidant activ ity. PCA also showed potential to induce the synthesis of type I collagen in human dermal fibroblast and skin explants. It inhibited MMP-1 secretion from UVA-irradiated human dermal fibroblast. An in vivo study, treatment with lotion-containing 0.02% PCA for 8 weeks significantly reduced the percentage of all skin wrinkle parameters.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Based on the results of in vitro assays and in vivo skin testing in human subjects, PCA shows potential in anti-wrinkle or anti-skin aging treatments.}, }
@article {pmid31387316, year = {2019}, author = {Napp, S and Montalvo, T and Piñol-Baena, C and Gómez-Martín, MB and Nicolás-Francisco, O and Soler, M and Busquets, N}, title = {Usefulness of Eurasian Magpies (Pica pica) for West Nile virus Surveillance in Non-Endemic and Endemic Situations.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {11}, number = {8}, pages = {}, pmid = {31387316}, issn = {1999-4915}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/virology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Passeriformes/*virology ; Sentinel Surveillance/veterinary ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; Spain/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {: In September 2017, passive surveillance allowed the detection of West Nile virus (WNV) lineage 2 for the first time in northern Spain in a northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis). However, a cross sectional study carried out in Eurasian magpies (Pica pica) in a nearby area evidenced that WNV had been circulating two months earlier. Therefore, active surveillance in Eurasian magpies proved its effectiveness for the early detection of WNV in a non-endemic area. Further surveys in 2018 and the beginning of 2019 using young magpies (i.e., born after 2017) showed the repeated circulation of WNV in the same region in the following transmission season. Therefore, active surveillance in Eurasian magpies as well proved to be useful for the detection of WNV circulation in areas that may be considered as endemic. In this manuscript we present the results of those studies and discuss reasons that make the Eurasian magpies an ideal species for the surveillance of WNV, both in endemic and non-endemic areas.}, }
@article {pmid31380706, year = {2020}, author = {Johann, V and Könen, T and Karbach, J}, title = {[Formula: see text] The unique contribution of working memory, inhibition, cognitive flexibility, and intelligence to reading comprehension and reading speed.}, journal = {Child neuropsychology : a journal on normal and abnormal development in childhood and adolescence}, volume = {26}, number = {3}, pages = {324-344}, doi = {10.1080/09297049.2019.1649381}, pmid = {31380706}, issn = {1744-4136}, mesh = {Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Comprehension/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests/*standards ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; *Reading ; }, abstract = {There are several studies showing that executive functions such as working memory, inhibition, and cognitive flexibility are related to reading abilities. However, most of these studies did not simultaneously take different executive functions and intelligence into account. Therefore, the aim of our study was to investigate if working memory, inhibition, cognitive flexibility, and fluid intelligence uniquely contribute to reading. Furthermore, we tested the hypothesis that reading comprehension and reading speed are correlated but separable reading abilities with different relations to other cognitive functions. To test this assumption, we examined if executive functions and fluid intelligence unequally relate to reading comprehension and reading speed. A total of 186 school children (mean age = 9.31 years) participated in our study and performed a complex span task (working memory), task switching (cognitive flexibility), a stroop-like task (inhibition), raven matrices (fluid intelligence), a reading speed task and three reading comprehension tasks. Structural equation modeling (SEM) showed that working memory, inhibition, cognitive flexibility and fluid intelligence differently contributed to reading speed and reading comprehension. Working memory, inhibition and fluid intelligence were related to reading speed, indicating that a higher working memory capacity, better inhibitory abilities and higher fluid intelligence were associated with higher reading speed. Moreover, cognitive flexibility and fluid intelligence were related to reading comprehension, suggesting that higher cognitive flexibility and fluid intelligence were associated with better reading comprehension. Thus, our results point to differential contributions of executive functions to reading comprehension and reading speed.}, }
@article {pmid31378612, year = {2019}, author = {McCoy, DE and Schiestl, M and Neilands, P and Hassall, R and Gray, RD and Taylor, AH}, title = {New Caledonian Crows Behave Optimistically after Using Tools.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {29}, number = {16}, pages = {2737-2742.e3}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2019.06.080}, pmid = {31378612}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Motivation ; Optimism ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Are complex, species-specific behaviors in animals reinforced by material reward alone or do they also induce positive emotions? Many adaptive human behaviors are intrinsically motivated: they not only improve our material outcomes, but improve our affect as well [1-8]. Work to date on animal optimism, as an indicator of positive affect, has generally focused on how animals react to change in their circumstances, such as when their environment is enriched [9-14] or they are manipulated by humans [15-23], rather than whether complex actions improve emotional state. Here, we show that wild New Caledonian crows are optimistic after tool use, a complex, species-specific behavior. We further demonstrate that this finding cannot be explained by the crows needing to put more effort into gaining food. Our findings therefore raise the possibility that intrinsic motivation (enjoyment) may be a fundamental proximate cause in the evolution of tool use and other complex behaviors. VIDEO ABSTRACT.}, }
@article {pmid31378607, year = {2019}, author = {Rinnert, P and Kirschhock, ME and Nieder, A}, title = {Neuronal Correlates of Spatial Working Memory in the Endbrain of Crows.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {29}, number = {16}, pages = {2616-2624.e4}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2019.06.060}, pmid = {31378607}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Neurons/*physiology ; Reaction Time/physiology ; Spatial Memory/*physiology ; Telencephalon/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Birds are renowned for their excellent spatial cognition. Corvid songbirds, in particular, rely on explicit representation of spatial cues in memory when caching food and retrieving caches for later consumption. However, the neuronal correlates of flexible spatial memory abilities are largely unknown in birds. We therefore trained carrion crows (Corvus corone) on a spatial delayed-response task in which they had to maintain the variable location of a visual item for a few seconds in working memory. After the crows performed this task with high precision, we recorded single-cell activity from the associative endbrain area Nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL) in the behaving crows. A large fraction of NCL neurons were tuned to individual preferred locations and selectively maintained the spatial location of items in working memory. A comparison of firing rates with reaction times suggested that the majority of delay-selective neurons represented stored location information rather than motor preparation. Almost 30% of all recorded neurons were tuned during both visual presentation and memory delay, and their spatial tuning was significantly correlated. The population of recorded neurons stably maintained spatial information over the course of the working memory period. Importantly, the neural responses of spatially tuned neurons were relevant for the crows' choices and allowed a statistical classifier to predict the subsequently chosen target location in free-choice trials. Our findings demonstrate the pivotal role of the avian NCL in spatial working memory that is reminiscent of the function of the convergently evolved primate prefrontal cortex in spatial working memory.}, }
@article {pmid31373991, year = {2019}, author = {Wang, J and Su, Y and Zhang, J and Guo, P and Song, B}, title = {Subbrow Blepharoplasty Combined with Periorbital Muscle Manipulation for Periorbital Rejuvenation in Asian Women.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {144}, number = {5}, pages = {760e-769e}, doi = {10.1097/PRS.0000000000006144}, pmid = {31373991}, issn = {1529-4242}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Asian People/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Blepharoplasty/*methods ; Cohort Studies ; Esthetics ; Eyebrows ; Eyelids/*surgery ; Facial Muscles/*surgery ; Female ; Forehead/surgery ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Patient Satisfaction/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Photography/*methods ; Preoperative Care/methods ; Prognosis ; Rejuvenation ; Retrospective Studies ; Risk Assessment ; Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: With advancing age, Asian women are often plagued by lateral hooding of the upper eyelid skin, eyebrow ptosis, and obvious periorbital wrinkles. The authors propose a novel technique to revive the natural eyelid shape with a stable eyebrow position and alleviate periorbital wrinkles in Asian women.<br><br>METHODS: Sixty-six patients underwent subbrow blepharoplasty combined with periorbital muscle manipulation. An ellipse shape of the skin and subcutaneous tissue below the eyebrow was measured, demarcated, and removed. Then, the orbicularis oculi muscle beneath the subcutaneous tissue was exposed and dissected at the upper third. The lower muscle flap was fixed to the supraorbital rim periosteum and the upper musculocutaneous flaps, forming a cross flap for interlocking fixation. The lateral border of the orbicularis oculi muscle was detached from the subcutaneous tissue, splayed out, and sutured upward and inward to the periosteum. The corrugator supercilii muscle temporal to the origin of the supraorbital nerve notch was separated by 1 to 2 mm. The operation results were evaluated by patient satisfaction and comparisons between preoperative and postoperative photographs.<br><br>RESULTS: Subbrow blepharoplasty combined with periorbital muscle manipulation significantly corrected lateral hooding with a stable eyebrow position and reduced the crow's feet and glabellar frown lines in all patients. The persistence of the improved outcome was stable during the follow-up period. Postoperative scarring was inconspicuous; however, eight cases had transient postoperative forehead numbness.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This novel procedure provides a simple, effective, and comprehensive technique for improving periorbital aging in Asian women. The surgical outcomes are predictable, and the postoperative scarring is inconspicuous.<br><br>Therapeutic, IV.}, }
@article {pmid31372482, year = {2019}, author = {Norqvist, M and Jonsson, B and Lithner, J}, title = {Eye-tracking data and mathematical tasks with focus on mathematical reasoning.}, journal = {Data in brief}, volume = {25}, number = {}, pages = {104216}, pmid = {31372482}, issn = {2352-3409}, abstract = {This data article contains eye-tracking data (i.e., dwell time and fixations), Z-transformed cognitive data (i.e., Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices and Operation span), and practice and test scores from a study in mathematics education. This data is provided in a supplementary file. The method section describes the mathematics tasks used in the study. These mathematics tasks are of two kinds, with and without solution templates, to induce different types of mathematical reasoning.}, }
@article {pmid31363119, year = {2019}, author = {Domingues, P and Eletto, D and Magnus, C and Turkington, HL and Schmutz, S and Zagordi, O and Lenk, M and Beer, M and Stertz, S and Hale, BG}, title = {Profiling host ANP32A splicing landscapes to predict influenza A virus polymerase adaptation.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {3396}, pmid = {31363119}, issn = {2041-1723}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Birds ; Chickens ; Humans ; Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype ; Influenza A virus/chemistry/*enzymology/genetics/physiology ; Influenza in Birds/*genetics/metabolism/virology ; Influenza, Human/genetics/metabolism/virology ; Nuclear Proteins ; Protein Binding ; *RNA Splicing ; RNA-Binding Proteins/chemistry/*genetics/metabolism ; Viral Proteins/chemistry/genetics/*metabolism ; Virus Replication ; }, abstract = {Species' differences in cellular factors limit avian influenza A virus (IAV) zoonoses and human pandemics. The IAV polymerase, vPol, harbors evolutionary sites to overcome restriction and determines virulence. Here, we establish host ANP32A as a critical driver of selection, and identify host-specific ANP32A splicing landscapes that predict viral evolution. We find that avian species differentially express three ANP32A isoforms diverging in a vPol-promoting insert. ANP32As with shorter inserts interact poorly with vPol, are compromised in supporting avian-like IAV replication, and drive selection of mammalian-adaptive vPol sequences with distinct kinetics. By integrating selection data with multi-species ANP32A splice variant profiling, we develop a mathematical model to predict avian species potentially driving (swallow, magpie) or maintaining (goose, swan) mammalian-adaptive vPol signatures. Supporting these predictions, surveillance data confirm enrichment of several mammalian-adaptive vPol substitutions in magpie IAVs. Profiling host ANP32A splicing could enhance surveillance and eradication efforts against IAVs with pandemic potential.}, }
@article {pmid31350980, year = {2019}, author = {S R, SC and Rajaguru, H}, title = {Lung Cancer Detection using Probabilistic Neural Network with modified Crow-Search Algorithm.}, journal = {Asian Pacific journal of cancer prevention : APJCP}, volume = {20}, number = {7}, pages = {2159-2166}, pmid = {31350980}, issn = {2476-762X}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Databases, Factual ; Humans ; Lung Neoplasms/*diagnosis/*diagnostic imaging ; *Neural Networks, Computer ; Prognosis ; Radiographic Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed/*methods ; }, abstract = {Objective: Lung cancer is a type of malignancy that occurs most commonly among men and the third most common type of malignancy among women. The timely recognition of lung cancer is necessary for decreasing the effect of death rate worldwide. Since the symptoms of lung cancer are identified only at an advanced stage, it is essential to predict the disease at its earlier stage using any medical imaging techniques. This work aims to propose a classification methodology for lung cancer automatically at the initial stage. Methods: The work adopts computed tomography (CT) imaging modality of lungs for the examination and probabilistic neural network (PNN) for the classification task. After pre-processing of the input lung images, feature extraction for the work is carried out based on the Gray-Level Co-Occurrence Matrix (GLCM) and chaotic crow search algorithm (CCSA) based feature selection is proposed. Results: Specificity, Sensitivity, Positive and Negative Predictive Values, Accuracy are the computation metrics used. The results indicate that the CCSA based feature selection effectively provides an accuracy of 90%. Conclusion: The strategy for the selection of appropriate extracted features is employed to improve the efficiency of classification and the work shows that the PNN with CCSA based feature selection gives an improved classification than without using CCSA for feature selection.}, }
@article {pmid31350814, year = {2020}, author = {Carroll, JM and Hanna, S and Guenther, LC and Boucher, N}, title = {Comparison of topical antiaging creams in the management of lateral canthal lines.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {694-704}, pmid = {31350814}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//Devonian Health Group Inc/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Elasticity/drug effects ; Eyelids/*drug effects/physiology ; Female ; Healthy Volunteers ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Skin/*drug effects ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Skin Cream/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study compared an antiaging treatment with two currently marketed cosmetic antiaging products for the treatment of lateral canthal lines ("crow's feet").<br><br>METHODS: Healthy female volunteers (72) aged of 54.6&#xa0;years (mean) having fine-to-moderate wrinkles in the lateral canthal areas were randomized to one of three treatments applied daily over 28&#xa0;days: Group A (Purgenesis&#x2122; Day Cream, Purgenesis&#x2122; Eye Cream, and Purgenesis&#x2122; Night Cream); Group B (Prevage[&#xae;] Eye Lotion, Prevage[&#xae;] Day Cream, and Prevage[&#xae;] Night Cream); or Group C (La Mer[&#xae;] Eye Balm, Cr&#xe8;me de La Mer[&#xae;] , and La Mer[&#xae;] Night Cream). The effects on anti-wrinkle properties and for sensory attributes and general performance were evaluated on Days 1, 7, and 28.<br><br>RESULTS: Skin hydration improved significantly at all time points in Groups A and B, and at Day 28 in Group C. Group A patients experienced significant improvements in measured skin elasticity parameters at Day 28; extensibility and maximum amplitude were significantly better at Day 28 in Groups B and C. Benefits were also seen in profilometric parameters with statistical significance only in Group A Volunteer tolerance was good with all three treatments, although moderate and high levels of adverse events were numerically higher in Group B than in Groups A or C, and levels of slight discomfort were significantly more prevalent in Group B.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The Purgenesis&#x2122; antiaging treatment significantly improved skin hydration, elasticity, and profilometry parameters during a 28-day study. This therapy was found to be well tolerated and effective in countering the cutaneous signs of aging.}, }
@article {pmid31343446, year = {2020}, author = {Keaney, TC and Cavallini, M and Leys, C and Rossi, A and Drinkwater, A and Manson Brown, S and Garcia, JK and Mao, C}, title = {Efficacy, Patient-Reported Outcomes, and Safety in Male Subjects Treated With OnabotulinumtoxinA for Improvement of Moderate to Severe Horizontal Forehead Lines.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {46}, number = {2}, pages = {229-239}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000002047}, pmid = {31343446}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Cosmetic Techniques/*adverse effects ; Double-Blind Method ; Esthetics ; Female ; Forehead ; Humans ; Intention to Treat Analysis ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Patient Reported Outcome Measures ; *Patient Satisfaction ; Rejuvenation ; Sex Factors ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Men represent a growing segment of the facial aesthetic market.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate investigator-assessed efficacy, patient-reported outcomes, and safety after onabotulinumtoxinA treatment of forehead lines (FHL) in men.<br><br>METHODS: Subjects with moderate to severe FHL received onabotulinumtoxinA (frontalis: 20 U; glabellar complex: 20 U, with/without 24 U in crow's feet regions) or placebo in 6-month, double-blind periods of 2 pivotal trials. Results for men were pooled.<br><br>RESULTS: Men comprised 12% (140/1,178) of subjects. Day 30 male responder rates for achieving at least 1-grade Facial Wrinkle Scale (FWS) improvement at maximum eyebrow elevation and at rest were 98.2% and 93.3%, respectively; a significant difference in responder rates was maintained versus placebo (p < .05) through Day 150. Despite men having proportionately more severe FHL at baseline, 81.8% and 79.8% achieved Day 30 FWS ratings of none or mild at maximum eyebrow elevation and at rest, respectively (p < .05); significance versus placebo was maintained through Day 120. Men reported high satisfaction rates and improved psychological impacts. No new safety signals were detected.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Standard dosing and administration of onabotulinumtoxinA significantly improved static and dynamic FHL appearance, despite men having proportionately more severe FHL at baseline. Men reported high satisfaction and appearance-related psychological impact improvements.}, }
@article {pmid31340859, year = {2019}, author = {Vinciguerra, NT and Tsai, WLE and Faircloth, BC and McCormack, JE}, title = {Comparison of ultraconserved elements (UCEs) to microsatellite markers for the study of avian hybrid zones: a test in Aphelocoma jays.}, journal = {BMC research notes}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {456}, pmid = {31340859}, issn = {1756-0500}, support = {DEB-1244739//National Science Foundation/ ; DEB-1652979//National Science Foundation/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Beak/anatomy &amp; histology/metabolism ; Crosses, Genetic ; *DNA Probes ; Female ; Gene Flow ; Genetic Speciation ; Genetics, Population ; *Genome ; *Hybridization, Genetic ; Male ; Microsatellite Repeats ; Passeriformes/classification/*genetics ; Phenotype ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; *Quantitative Trait, Heritable ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Wings, Animal/anatomy &amp; histology/metabolism ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Hybrid zones are geographic regions where genetically distinct taxa interbreed, resulting in offspring of mixed ancestry. California Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma californica) and Woodhouse's Scrub-Jays (A. woodhouseii) come into secondary contact and hybridize in western Nevada. Although previous work investigated divergence and gene flow between these species using a handful of microsatellite markers, the hybrid zone has not been studied using genome-scale markers, providing an opportunity to assess genome-wide introgression, test for a genetic basis for ecomorphological traits, and compare these estimates to those derived from microsatellites.<br><br>RESULTS: Using variant sites flanking ultraconserved elements (UCEs), we performed population assignment and quantified hybrid ancestry for 16 individuals across the zone of secondary contact. Our study included 2468 SNPs distributed throughout the genome, allowing discrimination of genetic affinities of hybrid individuals that were similar to estimates from microsatellites. We show a relationship between bill and wing length and the genetic composition of individuals that was not found in prior work using microsatellites, suggesting a genetic basis for these traits. Our analyses demonstrate the utility of UCEs for the analysis of hybrid zones and provide a basis for future studies to identify the genomic architecture of speciation and phenotypic differences between these incipient species.}, }
@article {pmid31330118, year = {2019}, author = {Moberly, AC and Reed, J}, title = {Making Sense of Sentences: Top-Down Processing of Speech by Adult Cochlear Implant Users.}, journal = {Journal of speech, language, and hearing research : JSLHR}, volume = {62}, number = {8}, pages = {2895-2905}, pmid = {31330118}, issn = {1558-9102}, support = {K23 DC015539/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 TR001070/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Auditory Threshold ; Cochlear Implantation ; Cochlear Implants/*psychology ; Female ; Hearing Loss/*psychology/surgery ; Humans ; Inhibition, Psychological ; Male ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Nonverbal Communication ; Phonetics ; Postoperative Period ; Problem Solving ; *Recognition, Psychology ; Speech Acoustics ; *Speech Perception ; }, abstract = {Purpose Speech recognition relies upon a listener's successful pairing of the acoustic-phonetic details from the bottom-up input with top-down linguistic processing of the incoming speech stream. When the speech is spectrally degraded, such as through a cochlear implant (CI), this role of top-down processing is poorly understood. This study explored the interactions of top-down processing, specifically the use of semantic context during sentence recognition, and the relative contributions of different neurocognitive functions during speech recognition in adult CI users. Method Data from 41 experienced adult CI users were collected and used in analyses. Participants were tested for recognition and immediate repetition of speech materials in the clear. They were asked to repeat 2 sets of sentence materials, 1 that was semantically meaningful and 1 that was syntactically appropriate but semantically anomalous. Participants also were tested on 4 visual measures of neurocognitive functioning to assess working memory capacity (Digit Span; Wechsler, 2004), speed of lexical access (Test of Word Reading Efficiency; Torgeson, Wagner, &amp; Rashotte, 1999), inhibitory control (Stroop; Stroop, 1935), and nonverbal fluid reasoning (Raven's Progressive Matrices; Raven, 2000). Results Individual listeners' inhibitory control predicted recognition of meaningful sentences when controlling for performance on anomalous sentences, our proxy for the quality of the bottom-up input. Additionally, speed of lexical access and nonverbal reasoning predicted recognition of anomalous sentences. Conclusions Findings from this study identified inhibitory control as a potential mechanism at work when listeners make use of semantic context during sentence recognition. Moreover, speed of lexical access and nonverbal reasoning were associated with recognition of sentences that lacked semantic context. These results motivate the development of improved comprehensive rehabilitative approaches for adult patients with CIs to optimize use of top-down processing and underlying core neurocognitive functions.}, }
@article {pmid31328952, year = {2020}, author = {Lazareva, OF and Gould, K and Linert, J and Caillaud, D and Gazes, RP}, title = {Smaller on the left? Flexible association between space and magnitude in pigeons (Columba livia) and blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata).}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {134}, number = {1}, pages = {71-83}, doi = {10.1037/com0000193}, pmid = {31328952}, issn = {1939-2087}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; Columbidae/*physiology ; Humans ; Orientation/*physiology ; Space Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Humans and other apes represent magnitudes spatially, demonstrated by their responding faster and more accurately to one side of space when presented with small quantities and to the other side of space when presented with large quantities. This representation is flexible and shows substantial variability between cultural groups in humans and between and within individuals in great apes. In contrast, recent findings suggest that chicks show a spatial representation of magnitude that is highly lateralized and inflexible, implying a qualitatively different underlying representation than in primates. Using methods similar to those used with great apes and humans, we trained adult domestic pigeons (Columba livia) and blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) to select the smaller (or larger) of two nonadjacent quantity arrays; later, this task was reversed. At test, birds were presented with novel probe pairs consisting of adjacent quantity pairs (e.g., 2 vs. 3). Both species showed robust evidence for a flexible spatial representation of magnitude with considerable individual variability in the orientation of this representation. These results are not consistent with an inflexible, lateralized, left-to-right representation of magnitude in birds, but are consistent with the flexible spatial representation of magnitude observed in apes and humans. We conclude that the tendency to organize quantities spatially may be a fundamental and evolutionarily ancient feature of cognition that is widespread among vertebrates. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid31326206, year = {2019}, author = {Chang, BP and Rostanski, S and Willey, J and Miller, EC and Shapiro, S and Mehendale, R and Kummer, B and Navi, BB and Elkind, MSV}, title = {Safety and Feasibility of a Rapid Outpatient Management Strategy for Transient Ischemic Attack and Minor Stroke: The Rapid Access Vascular Evaluation-Neurology (RAVEN) Approach.}, journal = {Annals of emergency medicine}, volume = {74}, number = {4}, pages = {562-571}, pmid = {31326206}, issn = {1097-6760}, support = {R01 HL141811/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HL146911/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Ambulatory Care/*methods ; Emergency Service, Hospital ; Feasibility Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Ischemic Attack, Transient/*therapy ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neurologic Examination/methods ; Recurrence ; Retrospective Studies ; Stroke/*therapy ; United States ; }, abstract = {STUDY OBJECTIVE: Although most transient ischemic attack and minor stroke patients in US emergency departments (EDs) are admitted, experience in other countries suggests that timely outpatient evaluation of transient ischemic attack and minor stroke can be safe. We assess the feasibility and safety of a rapid outpatient stroke clinic for transient ischemic attack and minor stroke: Rapid Access Vascular Evaluation-Neurology (RAVEN).<br><br>METHODS: Transient ischemic attack and minor stroke patients presenting to the ED with a National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of 5 or less and nondisabling deficit were assessed for potential discharge to RAVEN with a protocol incorporating social and medical criteria. Outpatient evaluation by a vascular neurologist, including vessel imaging, was performed within 24 hours at the RAVEN clinic. Participants were evaluated for compliance with clinic attendance and 90-day recurrent transient ischemic attack and minor stroke and hospitalization rates.<br><br>RESULTS: Between December 2016 and June 2018, 162 transient ischemic attack and minor stroke patients were discharged to RAVEN. One hundred fifty-four patients (95.1%) appeared as scheduled and 101 (66%) had a final diagnosis of transient ischemic attack and minor stroke. Two patients (1.3%) required hospitalization (one for worsening symptoms and another for intracranial arterial stenosis caused by zoster) at RAVEN evaluation. Among the 101 patients with confirmed transient ischemic attack and minor stroke, 18 (19.1%) had returned to an ED or been admitted at 90 days. Five were noted to have had recurrent neurologic symptoms diagnosed as transient ischemic attack (4.9%), whereas one had a recurrent stroke (0.9%). No individuals with transient ischemic attack and minor stroke died, and none received thrombolytics or thrombectomy, during the interval period. These 90-day outcomes were similar to historical published data on transient ischemic attack and minor stroke.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Rapid outpatient management appears a feasible and safe strategy for transient ischemic attack and minor stroke patients evaluated in the ED, with recurrent stroke and transient ischemic attack rates comparable to historical published data.}, }
@article {pmid31320656, year = {2019}, author = {Madsen, SMK and Marschall, M and Dau, T and Oxenham, AJ}, title = {Speech perception is similar for musicians and non-musicians across a wide range of conditions.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {10404}, pmid = {31320656}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {R01 DC005216/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation/methods ; Attention/physiology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Music ; Noise ; Pitch Discrimination/physiology ; Speech/*physiology ; Speech Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {It remains unclear whether musical training is associated with improved speech understanding in a noisy environment, with different studies reaching differing conclusions. Even in those studies that have reported an advantage for highly trained musicians, it is not known whether the benefits measured in laboratory tests extend to more ecologically valid situations. This study aimed to establish whether musicians are better than non-musicians at understanding speech in a background of competing speakers or speech-shaped noise under more realistic conditions, involving sounds presented in space via a spherical array of 64 loudspeakers, rather than over headphones, with and without simulated room reverberation. The study also included experiments testing fundamental frequency discrimination limens (F0DLs), interaural time differences limens (ITDLs), and attentive tracking. Sixty-four participants (32 non-musicians and 32 musicians) were tested, with the two groups matched in age, sex, and IQ as assessed with Raven's Advanced Progressive matrices. There was a significant benefit of musicianship for F0DLs, ITDLs, and attentive tracking. However, speech scores were not significantly different between the two groups. The results suggest no musician advantage for understanding speech in background noise or talkers under a variety of conditions.}, }
@article {pmid31318256, year = {2020}, author = {Gonthier, C and Roulin, JL}, title = {Intraindividual strategy shifts in Raven's matrices, and their dependence on working memory capacity and need for cognition.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. General}, volume = {149}, number = {3}, pages = {564-579}, doi = {10.1037/xge0000660}, pmid = {31318256}, issn = {1939-2222}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; *Individuality ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Motivation/physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Strategic behavior plays a key role in fluid intelligence tasks like Raven's matrices. Some participants solve items using the strategy of mentally constructing the answer (constructive matching), which is effective but costly for complex problems; other participants rely on the less accurate strategy of discarding potential answers (response elimination). While this process is relatively well-known, past research hints that intraindividual changes in strategy use may also take place as the task becomes increasingly difficult; however, intraindividual variability in Raven's matrices is poorly understood. The present study aimed to (a) test the hypothesis that participants dynamically shift between strategies during the course of Raven's matrices, as predicted by the literature, and (b) investigate the possibility that these shifts are moderated by individual differences in both ability and motivation. Two samples of 100 participants each completed Raven's advanced progressive matrices, and measures of working memory and need for cognition. The results confirmed that participants tended to turn to the less costly response elimination strategy as the difficulty of the task increased; this variability in strategy use predicted 78% of item-to-item variance in accuracy. Working memory capacity and need for cognition predicted strategy use, and working memory capacity additionally moderated the shift toward response elimination, so that only participants with both high working memory capacity and high need for cognition continued using constructive matching in the later part of the task. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid31314913, year = {2019}, author = {Flament, F and Velleman, D and Yamamoto, S and Nicolas, A and Udodaira, K and Yamamoto, S and Morimoto, C and Belkebla, S and Negre, C and Delaunay, C}, title = {Clinical impacts of sun exposures on the faces and hands of Japanese women of different ages.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {41}, number = {5}, pages = {425-436}, doi = {10.1111/ics.12555}, pmid = {31314913}, issn = {1468-2494}, support = {//L'Or&#xe9;al Research &amp; Innovation Department/ ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Environmental Exposure ; Face/*radiation effects ; Female ; Hand/*radiation effects ; Humans ; Japan ; Life Style ; Middle Aged ; *Skin Aging ; *Sunlight ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To assess the impacts of sun exposures on some skin signs on the faces and hands of differently aged Japanese women, according to their distinct behaviours towards vis à vis sun exposure.<br><br>METHODS: Two comparable cohorts of Japanese women (aged 18-83&#xa0;years) were created according to their usual behaviour towards sun exposure i.e. non-sun-phobic (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;495) and sun-phobic (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;516) and through their regular use(s) of a photo-protective product. Standard photographs (full-face and 45&#xb0; lateral) allowed to focus on 18 facial signs that were graded by 15 experts, using a referential skin ageing Atlas. From these two cohorts, two sub-cohorts (114 and 122 women) were created with regard to the similar clinical aspects of the dorsal side of their hands (Left vs. Right) that were further graded. Absolute differences in the scores of each sign were used (non-sun-phobic minus sun-phobic), by age-ranges, to better ascertain the impact of sun exposures and photo-protection.<br><br>RESULTS: Facial signs related to skin wrinkles/texture and pigmentary spots were found significantly more accentuated among non-sun-phobic women and show an early onset (20-30&#xa0;years). Facial sagging and crow's feet wrinkles appear delayed (30-40&#xa0;years). The severity of vascular disorders was found to be similar in the two cohorts. The absolute differences in the grading's of almost all signs were unsurprisingly found increased with advancing ages, illustrating the combination of chronological and photo-ageing processes. With regard to hands, differences in skin texture and pigmentary disorders are of a late onset (40-50&#xa0;years) and were found much increased at older ages. The cutaneous signs of the hands of Japanese women can hardly be taken as reliable markers of their photo-ageing status.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The present work illustrates, for the first time, some specificities of the impact of sun exposures on the facial skin of Japanese women, pinpointing the fact that some facial signs are of an early onset. Results significantly confirm the importance of both sun avoidance coupled with photo-protective measures.}, }
@article {pmid31307422, year = {2019}, author = {Williams, K and Colquhoun, A and Munday, R and Goodman, KJ and , }, title = {Antibiotic dispensation rates among participants in community-driven health research projects in Arctic Canada.}, journal = {BMC public health}, volume = {19}, number = {1}, pages = {949}, pmid = {31307422}, issn = {1471-2458}, support = {RES0010178//ArcticNet/ ; 201201159//Alberta Innovates - Health Solutions/ ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/*therapeutic use ; Arctic Regions ; Canada ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Helicobacter Infections/drug therapy ; Helicobacter pylori/drug effects ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Residence Characteristics/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Rural Population/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Treatment Failure ; Urban Population/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Community-driven projects that aim to address public concerns about health risks from H. pylori infection in Indigenous Arctic communities (estimated H. pylori prevalence = 64%) show frequent failure of treatment to eliminate the bacterium. Among project participants, treatment effectiveness is reduced by antibiotic resistance of infecting H. pylori strains, which in turn, is associated with frequent exposure to antibiotics used to treat other infections. This analysis compares antibiotic dispensation rates in Canadian Arctic communities to rates in urban and rural populations in Alberta, a southern Canadian province.<br><br>METHODS: Project staff collected antibiotic exposure histories for 297 participants enrolled during 2007-2012 in Aklavik, Tuktoyaktuk, and Fort McPherson in the Northwest Territories, and Old Crow, Yukon. Medical chart reviews collected data on systemic antibiotic dispensations for the 5-year period before enrolment for each participant. Antibiotic dispensation data for urban Edmonton, Alberta (average population ~&#x2009;860,000) and rural northern Alberta (average population ~&#x2009;450,000) during 2010-2013 were obtained from the Alberta Government Interactive Health Data Application.<br><br>RESULTS: Antibiotic dispensation rates, estimated as dispensations/person-years (95% confidence interval) were: in Arctic communities, 0.89 (0.84, 0.94); in Edmonton, 0.55 (0.55, 0.56); in rural northern Alberta, 0.63 (0.62, 0.63). Antibiotic dispensation rates were higher in women and older age groups in all regions. In all regions, the highest dispensation rates occurred for &#x3b2;-lactam and macrolide antibiotic classes.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: These results show more frequent antibiotic dispensation in Arctic communities relative to an urban and rural southern Canadian population.}, }
@article {pmid33365527, year = {2019}, author = {Liu, DW and Cheng-He, S and Yi-Ling, F and Hou, SL and Song-Ze, T}, title = {Complete mitochondrial genome of Grey Treepie, Dendrocitta formosae (Aves: Corvidae).}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part B, Resources}, volume = {4}, number = {2}, pages = {2326-2327}, pmid = {33365527}, issn = {2380-2359}, abstract = {We report the complete mitochondrial genome of Dendrocitta formosae. The genome is a closed circular molecule of 16,875 bp, with all genes exhibiting typical avian gene arrangement. The overall base composition of this species' mitogenome is 24.33% T, 30.49% C, 30.17% A, and 15.01% G. The A + T content is 54.50%. Phylogenetic analysis of the complete mitogenome of 12 species conducted using the neighbour-joining method and kimura 2-parameter model suggested that the mitogenome of D. formosae was the closest to that of Pyrrhocorax graculus and P. pyrrhocorax. The results could aid future studies on Dendrocitta and Pyrrhocorax molecular evolution and phylogeny.}, }
@article {pmid31306420, year = {2019}, author = {Maharaj, PD and Langevin, SA and Bolling, BG and Andrade, CC and Engle, XA and Ramey, WN and Bosco-Lauth, A and Bowen, RA and Sanders, TA and Huang, CY and Reisen, WK and Brault, AC}, title = {N-linked glycosylation of the West Nile virus envelope protein is not a requisite for avian virulence or vector competence.}, journal = {PLoS neglected tropical diseases}, volume = {13}, number = {7}, pages = {e0007473}, pmid = {31306420}, issn = {1935-2735}, support = {R01 AI055607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI061822/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 CI000235/CI/NCPDCID CDC HHS/United States ; U54 AI065359/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aedes ; Amino Acid Motifs ; Animals ; Chlorocebus aethiops ; Culex/virology ; Culicidae/virology ; Disease Models, Animal ; *Disease Vectors ; Female ; Glycosylation ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Mice ; Mutation ; Phenotype ; Sparrows/virology ; Vero Cells ; Viral Envelope Proteins/genetics/*metabolism ; Viremia ; Virulence ; Virus Replication ; West Nile Fever/*virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {The N-linked glycosylation motif at amino acid position 154-156 of the envelope (E) protein of West Nile virus (WNV) is linked to enhanced murine neuroinvasiveness, avian pathogenicity and vector competence. Naturally occurring isolates with altered E protein glycosylation patterns have been observed in WNV isolates; however, the specific effects of these polymorphisms on avian host pathogenesis and vector competence have not been investigated before. In the present study, amino acid polymorphisms, NYT, NYP, NYF, SYP, SYS, KYS and deletion (A'DEL), were reverse engineered into a parental WNV (NYS) cDNA infectious clone to generate WNV glycosylation mutant viruses. These WNV glycosylation mutant viruses were characterized for in vitro growth, pH-sensitivity, temperature-sensitivity and host competence in American crows (AMCR), house sparrows (HOSP) and Culex quinquefasciatus. The NYS and NYT glycosylated viruses showed higher viral replication, and lower pH and temperature sensitivity than NYP, NYF, SYP, SYS, KYS and A'DEL viruses in vitro. Interestingly, in vivo results demonstrated asymmetric effects in avian and mosquito competence that were independent of the E-protein glycosylation status. In AMCRs and HOSPs, all viruses showed comparable viremias with the exception of NYP and KYS viruses that showed attenuated phenotypes. Only NYP showed reduced vector competence in both Cx. quinquefasciatus and Cx. tarsalis. Glycosylated NYT exhibited similar avian virulence properties as NYS, but resulted in higher mosquito oral infectivity than glycosylated NYS and nonglycosylated, NYP, NYF, SYP and KYS mutants. These data demonstrated that amino acid polymorphisms at E154/156 dictate differential avian host and vector competence phenotypes independent of E-protein glycosylation status.}, }
@article {pmid31292844, year = {2020}, author = {Parvathy, VS and Pothiraj, S}, title = {Multi-modality medical image fusion using hybridization of binary crow search optimization.}, journal = {Health care management science}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {661-669}, doi = {10.1007/s10729-019-09492-2}, pmid = {31292844}, issn = {1572-9389}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Humans ; Image Enhancement/methods ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/*methods ; Multimodal Imaging/*methods ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed/*methods ; Wavelet Analysis ; }, abstract = {In clinical applications, single modality images do not provide sufficient diagnostic information. Therefore, it is necessary to combine the advantages or complementarities of different modalities of images. In this paper, we propose an efficient medical image fusion system based on discrete wavelet transform and binary crow search optimization (BCSO) algorithm. Here, we consider two different patterns of images as the input of the system and the output is the fused image. In this approach, at first, to enhance the image, we apply a median filter which is used to remove the noise present in the input image. Then, we apply a discrete wavelet transform on both the input modalities. Then, the approximation coefficients of modality 1 and detailed coefficients of modality 2 are combined. Similarly, approximation coefficients of modality 2 and detailed coefficients of modality 1 are combined. Finally, we fuse the two modality information using novel fusion rule. The fusion rule parameters are optimally selected using binary crow search optimization (BCSO) algorithm. To evaluate the performance of the proposed method, we used different quality metrics such as structural similarity index measure (SSIM), Fusion Factor (FF), and entropy. The presented model shows superior results with 6.63 of entropy, 0.849 of SSIM and 5.9 of FF.}, }
@article {pmid33365427, year = {2019}, author = {Jiang, JQ}, title = {Characterization of the complete mitochondrial genome of Corvus corone orientalis.}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part B, Resources}, volume = {4}, number = {2}, pages = {2102-2103}, pmid = {33365427}, issn = {2380-2359}, abstract = {In this study, the complete mitochondrial genome of Corvus corone orientalis was assembled through next-generation sequencing data. This circular mitochondrial genome of C. corone orientalis is 16,947 bp in length and has a base composition of A (30.8%), T (24.7%), C (29.9%), and G (14.5%), demonstrating a bias of higher AT content (55.5%) than GC content (44.5%). The mitochondrial genome contains a typically conserved structure among bird mitogenomes, encoding 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA genes (tRNA), two ribosomal RNA genes (12S rRNA and 16S rRNA), and a control region (D-loop region). Except ND6, all other PCGs were located on the H-strand. ATP8 gene and ATP6 gene were overlapped by 8 bp. The whole mt genome of C. corone orientalis and other Corvoidea mitogenomes (24 species, in total) were used for phylogenetic analysis. The result indicated C. corone orientalis has the closest relationship with Corvus cornix cornix (NC_024698) and clustered within clade of genus Corvus.}, }
@article {pmid31287221, year = {2020}, author = {Schlötelburg, A and Plekat, A and Bellingrath-Kimura, S and Jacob, J}, title = {Self-service traps inspected by avian and terrestrial predators as a management option for rodents.}, journal = {Pest management science}, volume = {76}, number = {1}, pages = {103-110}, doi = {10.1002/ps.5550}, pmid = {31287221}, issn = {1526-4998}, support = {312-06.01-2812NA120//German Federal Office for Food and Agriculture/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Arvicolinae ; Birds ; Predatory Behavior ; *Rodentia ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Worldwide, serval rodent species are major pests in agricultural landscapes. A vole-specific tub-trap combining trapping and natural predators was developed to minimize the migration of rodents into agricultural crops. The trap was tested in enclosures in terms of its trapability of common voles (Microtus arvalis Pallas) and in the field regarding predator access and removal of voles, both in comparison to a commercially available self-service trap (standby-box).<br><br>RESULTS: The trapability of voles was equal for tub-traps and standby-boxes. The removal of voles occurred four times more often from tub-traps by a wider variety of predators (e.g. smaller terrestrial predators, birds of prey). Visits by predators were most likely if study sites were not surrounded by artificial surfaces (70% visit probability by terrestrial predators) or if they were in areas that were more than 25% (semi)natural (95% visit probability by avian predators). Furthermore, visits by avian predators increased with time and a learning effect could be demonstrated for magpies (Pica pica L.). From the first to the fifth day, the visit probability of magpies quadrupled.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Visits by predators decreased with increasing cover of artificial surfaces or decreasing cover of (semi)natural areas, proving the importance of (semi)natural areas in the agricultural landscape. Long-term trials with different baiting techniques and in landscapes characterized by organic farming should be conducted to ensure the regular removal of voles. The use of tub-traps that are frequently visited by predators could support crop protection, which might limit the use of rodenticide and the associated exposure risk of non-target wildlife. &#xa9; 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.}, }
@article {pmid31278972, year = {2019}, author = {Parameshwaran, D and Subramaniyam, NP and Thiagarajan, TC}, title = {Waveform complexity: A new metric for EEG analysis.}, journal = {Journal of neuroscience methods}, volume = {325}, number = {}, pages = {108313}, doi = {10.1016/j.jneumeth.2019.108313}, pmid = {31278972}, issn = {1872-678X}, mesh = {Adult ; Cerebral Cortex/*physiology ; Electroencephalography/*methods ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: EEG represents a cost-effective mechanism to evaluate brain function. To realize its potential, it is essential to identify aspects of the signal that provide insight into differences in cognitive, emotional and behavioral outcomes and can therefore aid in diagnostic measurement. Here we define a new metric of the EEG signal that assesses the diversity of waveform shapes in the signal.<br><br>NEW METHOD: The metric, which we term waveform complexity, abbreviated as Cw, compares the similarity of the shape of waveforms of long durations by computing the correlation (r) of segments. A distribution of waveform diversity is computed as 1-|r|x100, from which Cw is obtained as the median.<br><br>RESULTS: We identify the length parameter that provides the maximal variance in Cw across the sample population and therefore greatest potential discriminatory power. We also provide insight into the impact of various manipulations of the signal such as sampling rate, filtering, phase shuffling and signal duration. Finally, as a test of potential application, we demonstrate that when applied to eyes closed EEG recordings in subjects taken immediately prior to taking a Raven's progressive matrix test, this measure had a high correlation to participant's scores.<br><br>Cw, while correlated with other similar measures such as spectral entropy, sample entropy and Lempel-Ziv complexity, significantly outperformed these measures in its correlation to participants' task scores.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This waveform complexity measure warrants further investigation as a potential measure of cognitive and other brain states.}, }
@article {pmid31276317, year = {2019}, author = {Valdés Hernández, MDC and Abu-Hussain, J and Qiu, X and Priller, J and Parra Rodríguez, M and Pino, M and Báez, S and Ibáñez, A}, title = {Structural neuroimaging differentiates vulnerability from disease manifestation in colombian families with Huntington's disease.}, journal = {Brain and behavior}, volume = {9}, number = {8}, pages = {e01343}, pmid = {31276317}, issn = {2162-3279}, support = {MC_PC_16031/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/P025315/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Basal Ganglia/*diagnostic imaging ; Colombia ; Disease Progression ; Female ; Humans ; Huntington Disease/*diagnostic imaging ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/*methods ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuroimaging/*methods ; Thalamus/*diagnostic imaging ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The volume of the striatal structures has been associated with disease progression in individuals with Huntington's disease (HD) from North America, Europe, and Australia. However, it is not known whether the gray matter (GM) volume in the striatum is also sensitive in differentiating vulnerability from disease manifestation in HD families from a South-American region known to have high incidence of the disease. In addition, the association of enlarged brain perivascular spaces (PVS) with cognitive, behavioral, and motor symptoms of HD is unknown.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: We have analyzed neuroimaging indicators of global atrophy, PVS burden, and GM tissue volume in the basal ganglia and thalami, in relation to behavioral, motor, and cognitive scores, in 15 HD patients with overt disease manifestation and 14 first-degree relatives not genetically tested, which represent a vulnerable group, from the region of Magdalena, Colombia.<br><br>RESULTS: Poor fluid intelligence as per the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices was associated with global brain atrophy (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.002) and PVS burden (p&#xa0;&#x2264;&#xa0;0.02) in HD patients, where the GM volume in all subcortical structures, with the exception of the right globus pallidus, was associated with motor or cognitive scores. Only the GM volume in the right putamen was associated with envy and MOCA scores (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.008 and 0.015 respectively) in first-degree relatives.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Striatal GM volume, global brain atrophy and PVS burden may serve as differential indicators of disease manifestation in HD. The Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices could be a cognitive test worth to consider in the differentiation of vulnerability versus overt disease in HD.}, }
@article {pmid31272493, year = {2019}, author = {Hartshorn, S and Barrett, MJ and Lyttle, MD and Yee, SA and Irvine, AT and , }, title = {Inhaled methoxyflurane (Penthrox®) versus placebo for injury-associated analgesia in children-the MAGPIE trial (MEOF-002): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.}, journal = {Trials}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {393}, pmid = {31272493}, issn = {1745-6215}, mesh = {Administration, Inhalation ; Adolescent ; Age Factors ; Analgesics/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Child ; Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic ; Double-Blind Method ; Emergency Service, Hospital ; Female ; Humans ; Ireland ; Male ; Methoxyflurane/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Multicenter Studies as Topic ; Nebulizers and Vaporizers ; Pain/diagnosis/*drug therapy ; Pain Measurement ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; United Kingdom ; Wounds and Injuries/diagnosis/*drug therapy ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pain from injuries is one of the commonest symptoms in children attending emergency departments (EDs), and this is often inadequately treated in both the pre-hospital and ED settings, in part due to challenges of continual assessment and availability of easily administered analgesic options. Pain practices are therefore a key research priority, including within the field of paediatric emergency medicine. Methoxyflurane, delivered via a self-administered Penthrox® inhaler, belongs to the fluorinated hydrocarbon group of volatile anaesthetics and is unique among the group in having analgesic properties at low doses. Despite over 30 years of clinical acute analgesia use, and a large volume of evidence supporting its safety and efficacy, there is a paucity of randomised controlled trial data for Penthrox®.<br><br>METHODS: This is an international multi-centre randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase III trial assessing the efficacy and safety of methoxyflurane delivered via the Penthrox&#xae; inhaler for the management of moderate to severe acute traumatic pain in children and young people aged 6-17&#x2009;years. Following written informed consent, eligible participants are randomised to self-administer either inhaled methoxyflurane (maximum dose of 2&#x2009;&#xd7;&#x2009;3&#x2009;ml) or normal saline placebo (maximum dose 2&#x2009;&#xd7;&#x2009;5&#x2009;ml). Patients, treating clinicians and research nurses are blinded to the treatment. The primary outcome is the change in pain intensity at 15&#x2009;min after the commencement of treatment, as measured by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) or the Wong-Baker FACES&#xae; Pain Rating scale, with the latter converted to VAS values. Secondary outcome measures include the number and proportion of responders who achieve a 30% reduction in VAS score compared to baseline, rescue medication requested, time and number of inhalations to first pain relief, global medication performance assessment by the patient, clinician and research nurse, and evaluation of adverse events experienced during treatment and during the subsequent 14&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;2&#x2009;days. The primary analysis will be by intention to treat. The total sample size is 110 randomised and treated patients per treatment arm.<br><br>DISCUSSION: The Methoxyflurane AnalGesia for Paediatric InjuriEs (MAGPIE) trial will provide efficacy and safety data for methoxyflurane administered via the Penthrox&#xae; inhaler, in children and adolescents who present to EDs with moderate to severe injury-related pain.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION: EudraCT, 2016-004290-41 . Registered on 11 April 2017. ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03215056 . Registered on 12 July 2017.}, }
@article {pmid31270682, year = {2020}, author = {Vonk, J}, title = {Sticks and stones: Associative learning alone?.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {48}, number = {3}, pages = {277-278}, doi = {10.3758/s13420-019-00387-4}, pmid = {31270682}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Learning ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Gruber et al. (Current Biology, 29, 686-692, 2019) report that New Caledonian crows engage in mental representation to solve a problem involving a tool. Although the crows' success is impressive, an associative account of their behavior calls into question the extent to which the data reflect representation of future states.}, }
@article {pmid31266425, year = {2019}, author = {Ling, H and Mclvor, GE and van der Vaart, K and Vaughan, RT and Thornton, A and Ouellette, NT}, title = {Local interactions and their group-level consequences in flocking jackdaws.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {286}, number = {1906}, pages = {20190865}, pmid = {31266425}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Crows/*physiology ; Flight, Animal/*physiology ; *Social Behavior ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {As one of nature's most striking examples of collective behaviour, bird flocks have attracted extensive research. However, we still lack an understanding of the attractive and repulsive forces that govern interactions between individuals within flocks and how these forces influence neighbours' relative positions and ultimately determine the shape of flocks. We address these issues by analysing the three-dimensional movements of wild jackdaws (Corvus monedula) in flocks containing 2-338 individuals. We quantify the social interaction forces in large, airborne flocks and find that these forces are highly anisotropic. The long-range attraction in the direction perpendicular to the movement direction is stronger than that along it, and the short-range repulsion is generated mainly by turning rather than changing speed. We explain this phenomenon by considering wingbeat frequency and the change in kinetic and gravitational potential energy during flight, and find that changing the direction of movement is less energetically costly than adjusting speed for birds. Furthermore, our data show that collision avoidance by turning can alter local neighbour distributions and ultimately change the group shape. Our results illustrate the macroscopic consequences of anisotropic interaction forces in bird flocks, and help to draw links between group structure, local interactions and the biophysics of animal locomotion.}, }
@article {pmid31266013, year = {2019}, author = {Moberly, AC and Mattingly, JK and Castellanos, I}, title = {How Does Nonverbal Reasoning Affect Sentence Recognition in Adults with Cochlear Implants and Normal-Hearing Peers?.}, journal = {Audiology &amp; neuro-otology}, volume = {24}, number = {3}, pages = {127-138}, pmid = {31266013}, issn = {1421-9700}, support = {K23 DC015539/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 TR001070/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Cochlear Implantation ; *Cochlear Implants ; Cognition ; Female ; Hearing Tests ; Humans ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Recognition, Psychology/*physiology ; Signal-To-Noise Ratio ; Speech Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Previous research has demonstrated an association of scores on a visual test of nonverbal reasoning, Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM), with scores on open-set sentence recognition in quiet for adult cochlear implant (CI) users as well as for adults with normal hearing (NH) listening to noise-vocoded sentence materials. Moreover, in that study, CI users demonstrated poorer nonverbal reasoning when compared with NH peers. However, it remains unclear what underlying neurocognitive processes contributed to the association of nonverbal reasoning scores with sentence recognition, and to the poorer scores demonstrated by CI users.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: Three hypotheses were tested: (1) nonverbal reasoning abilities of adult CI users and normal-hearing (NH) age-matched peers would be predicted by performance on more basic neurocognitive measures of working memory capacity, information-processing speed, inhibitory control, and concentration; (2) nonverbal reasoning would mediate the effects of more basic neurocognitive functions on sentence recognition in both groups; and (3) group differences in more basic neurocognitive functions would explain the group differences previously demonstrated in nonverbal reasoning.<br><br>METHOD: Eighty-three participants (40 CI and 43 NH) underwent testing of sentence recognition using two sets of sentence materials: sentences produced by a single male talker (Harvard sentences) and high-variability sentences produced by multiple talkers (Perceptually Robust English Sentence Test Open-set, PRESTO). Participants also completed testing of nonverbal reasoning using a visual computerized RPM test, and additional neurocognitive assessments were collected using a visual Digit Span test and a Stroop Color-Word task. Multivariate regression analyses were performed to test our hypotheses while treating age as a covariate.<br><br>RESULTS: In the CI group, information processing speed on the Stroop task predicted RPM performance, and RPM scores mediated the effects of information processing speed on sentence recognition abilities for both Harvard and PRESTO sentences. In contrast, for the NH group, Stroop inhibitory control predicted RPM performance, and a trend was seen towards RPM scores mediating the effects of inhibitory control on sentence recognition, but only for PRESTO sentences. Poorer RPM performance in CI users than NH controls could be partially attributed to slower information processing speed.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Neurocognitive functions contributed differentially to nonverbal reasoning performance in CI users as compared with NH peers, and nonverbal reasoning appeared to partially mediate the effects of these different neurocognitive functions on sentence recognition in both groups, at least for PRESTO sentences. Slower information processing speed accounted for poorer nonverbal reasoning scores in CI users. Thus, it may be that prolonged auditory deprivation contributes to cognitive decline through slower information processing.}, }
@article {pmid31263578, year = {2019}, author = {Majid, F and Behrman, J and Mani, S}, title = {Short-term and long-term distributional consequences of prenatal malnutrition and stress: using Ramadan as a natural experiment.}, journal = {BMJ global health}, volume = {4}, number = {3}, pages = {e001185}, pmid = {31263578}, issn = {2059-7908}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Fetal environments play significant roles in determining adult well-being, particularly as they relate to non-communicable diseases and skill formation. We studied gender-specific distributional consequences of fetal environment (in the form of in-utero exposure to Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting), in Indonesia, on birth weights, performance on Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (CPM), math scores, hours worked and earnings.<br><br>METHODS: We used quantile regressions to conduct a quantitative comparison of distributional consequences, by gender, of full month exposures to Ramadan in-utero on outcomes of interest. Our data included Muslim children and adults measured during rounds 1 and 4 of the Indonesian Family Life Survey. Our main outcome measures were: birth weights-559 observations (females) and 624 (males); Raven's CPM scores-1693 (females) and 1821 (males) for 8-15 year olds; math test scores-1696 (females) and 1825 (males) for 8-15 year olds; hours worked-3181 (females) and 4599 (males) for 18-65 year olds; earnings-2419 (females) and 4019 (males) for 18-65 year olds.<br><br>RESULTS: Full month of exposure to Ramadan in-utero led to significant reductions at the 5% significance level that were concentrated in the bottom halves of the outcome distributions: among 8-15 years, lower scores on Raven's CPM tests for females (mean: -9.2%, 10thQ: -19%, 25th Q: -19.4%) and males (mean: -5.6%, 10thQ: -12.5%); lower math scores for females (mean: -8.6%, 25thQ: -15.9%) and males (mean: -8.5%, 10thQ: -13.6%); among females 18-65 years, significant reduction in hours worked (mean: -7.5%, 10thQ: - 26.3%).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Events during the fetal period have far-reaching consequences for females and males in the lowest (10th and 25th) quantiles of outcome distributions, affecting the 'relatively poor' the most. These results call for caution in interpreting studies on child development that rely on mean comparisons alone.}, }
@article {pmid31261787, year = {2019}, author = {Garcia-Garzon, E and Abad, FJ and Garrido, LE}, title = {Searching for G: A New Evaluation of SPM-LS Dimensionality.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {7}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {31261787}, issn = {2079-3200}, support = {FPU15/03246//Ministerio de Educaci&#xf3;n, Cultura y Deporte/ ; Grant PSI2013-44300-P//Ministerio de Econom&#xed;a, Industria y Competitividad, Gobierno de Espa&#xf1;a/ ; PSI2017-85022-P//Ministerio de Econom&#xed;a, Industria y Competitividad, Gobierno de Espa&#xf1;a/ ; }, abstract = {There has been increased interest in assessing the quality and usefulness of short versions of the Raven's Progressive Matrices. A recent proposal, composed of the last twelve matrices of the Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM-LS), has been depicted as a valid measure of g. Nonetheless, the results provided in the initial validation questioned the assumption of essential unidimensionality for SPM-LS scores. We tested this hypothesis through two different statistical techniques. Firstly, we applied exploratory graph analysis to assess SPM-LS dimensionality. Secondly, exploratory bi-factor modelling was employed to understand the extent that potential specific factors represent significant sources of variance after a general factor has been considered. Results evidenced that if modelled appropriately, SPM-LS scores are essentially unidimensional, and that constitute a reliable measure of g. However, an additional specific factor was systematically identified for the last six items of the test. The implications of such findings for future work on the SPM-LS are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid31259563, year = {2019}, author = {Congdon, JV and Hahn, AH and Filippi, P and Campbell, KA and Hoang, J and Scully, EN and Bowling, DL and Reber, SA and Sturdy, CB}, title = {Hear them roar: A comparison of black-capped chickadee (Poecile atricapillus) and human (Homo sapiens) perception of arousal in vocalizations across all classes of terrestrial vertebrates.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {133}, number = {4}, pages = {520-541}, doi = {10.1037/com0000187}, pmid = {31259563}, issn = {1939-2087}, mesh = {Animals ; Arousal/*physiology ; Auditory Perception/*physiology ; Concept Formation/physiology ; Conditioning, Operant/physiology ; Discrimination Learning/physiology ; Discrimination, Psychological/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; *Inhibition, Psychological ; Learning/*physiology ; Male ; Songbirds/*physiology ; Species Specificity ; Transfer, Psychology/physiology ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Recently, evidence for acoustic universals in vocal communication was found by demonstrating that humans can identify levels of arousal in vocalizations produced by species across three biological classes (Filippi et al., 2017). Here, we extend this work by testing whether two vocal learning species, humans and chickadees, can discriminate vocalizations of high and low arousal using operant discrimination go/no-go tasks. Stimuli included vocalizations from nine species: giant panda, American alligator, common raven, hourglass treefrog, African elephant, Barbary macaque, domestic pig, black-capped chickadee, and human. Subjects were trained to respond to high or low arousal vocalizations, then tested with additional high and low arousal vocalizations produced by each species. Chickadees (Experiment 1) and humans (Experiment 2) learned to discriminate between high and low arousal stimuli and significantly transferred the discrimination to additional panda, human, and chickadee vocalizations. Finally, we conducted discriminant function analyses using four acoustic measures, finding evidence suggesting that fundamental frequency played a role in responding during the task. However, these analyses also suggest roles for other acoustic factors as well as familiarity. In sum, the results from these studies provide evidence that chickadees and humans are capable of perceiving arousal in vocalizations produced by multiple species. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid31244985, year = {2019}, author = {Graham, LJ and Spake, R and Gillings, S and Watts, K and Eigenbrod, F}, title = {Incorporating fine-scale environmental heterogeneity into broad-extent models.}, journal = {Methods in ecology and evolution}, volume = {10}, number = {6}, pages = {767-778}, pmid = {31244985}, issn = {2041-210X}, abstract = {A key aim of ecology is to understand the drivers of ecological patterns, so that we can accurately predict the effects of global environmental change. However, in many cases, predictors are measured at a finer resolution than the ecological response. We therefore require data aggregation methods that avoid loss of information on fine-grain heterogeneity.We present a data aggregation method that, unlike current approaches, reduces the loss of information on fine-grain spatial structure in environmental heterogeneity for use with coarse-grain ecological datasets. Our method contains three steps: (a) define analysis scales (predictor grain, response grain, scale-of-effect); (b) use a moving window to calculate a measure of variability in environment (predictor grain) at the process-relevant scale (scale-of-effect); and (c) aggregate the moving window calculations to the coarsest resolution (response grain). We show the theoretical basis for our method using simulated landscapes and the practical utility with a case study. Our method is available as the grainchanger r package.The simulations show that information about spatial structure is captured that would have been lost using a direct aggregation approach, and that our method is particularly useful in landscapes with spatial autocorrelation in the environmental predictor variable (e.g. fragmented landscapes) and when the scale-of-effect is small relative to the response grain. We use our data aggregation method to find the appropriate scale-of-effect of land cover diversity on Eurasian jay Garrulus glandarius abundance in the UK. We then model the interactive effect of land cover heterogeneity and temperature on G. glandarius abundance. Our method enables us quantify this interaction despite the different scales at which these factors influence G. glandarius abundance.Our data aggregation method allows us to integrate variables that act at varying scales into one model with limited loss of information, which has wide applicability for spatial analyses beyond the specific ecological context considered here. Key ecological applications include being able to estimate the interactive effect of drivers that vary at different scales (such as climate and land cover), and to systematically examine the scale dependence of the effects of environmental heterogeneity in combination with the effects of climate change on biodiversity.}, }
@article {pmid31244629, year = {2019}, author = {Friedman, N and Fekete, T and Gal, K and Shriki, O}, title = {EEG-Based Prediction of Cognitive Load in Intelligence Tests.}, journal = {Frontiers in human neuroscience}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {191}, pmid = {31244629}, issn = {1662-5161}, abstract = {Measuring and assessing the cognitive load associated with different tasks is crucial for many applications, from the design of instructional materials to monitoring the mental well-being of aircraft pilots. The goal of this paper is to utilize EEG to infer the cognitive workload of subjects during intelligence tests. We chose the well established advanced progressive matrices test, an ideal framework because it presents problems at increasing levels of difficulty and has been rigorously validated in past experiments. We train classic machine learning models using basic EEG measures as well as measures of network connectivity and signal complexity. Our findings demonstrate that cognitive load can be well predicted using these features, even for a low number of channels. We show that by creating an individually tuned neural network for each subject, we can improve prediction compared to a generic model and that such models are robust to decreasing the number of available channels as well.}, }
@article {pmid31237011, year = {2019}, author = {Walsh, JP and Akopian, G}, title = {Physiological aging at striatal synapses.}, journal = {Journal of neuroscience research}, volume = {97}, number = {12}, pages = {1720-1727}, doi = {10.1002/jnr.24484}, pmid = {31237011}, issn = {1097-4547}, mesh = {Aging/*physiology ; Animals ; Basal Ganglia/physiology ; Cerebral Cortex/*physiology ; Corpus Striatum/*physiology ; Humans ; Mitochondria ; Neural Pathways/physiology ; Neuronal Plasticity ; Neurons/*physiology ; Synapses/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Mike Levine's body of work guides thinking on how the basal ganglia process information to create coordinated movements and skill learning throughout the life span and in disease. This special issue is a nod to Mike's career and a well-deserved gesture by the neuroscience community thanking him for the impact he has made on many people's careers and the field of basal ganglia physiology. This paper reviews how aging impacts basal ganglia processing with a focus on single cell and synaptic physiology. This review begins with the work Mike did with his collaborators Nat Buchwald, Chester Hull and Jay Schneider. These early studies paved the way for subsequent studies on changes in synaptic processing that occur with aging in the basal ganglia. The primary focus of this review is aging at corticostriatal synapses. Corticostriatal synapses show reduced expression of both short-term and long-term synaptic potentiation. The roles of age-related changes in calcium homeostasis, vesicle cycling, dopamine modulation, and NMDA receptor function in aging's effect on synaptic plasticity are discussed. The article ends with a review of mitochondrial aging theory as it applies to age-induced changes in corticostriatal synaptic function.}, }
@article {pmid31231320, year = {2019}, author = {Jiménez de Oya, N and Escribano-Romero, E and Camacho, MC and Blazquez, AB and Martín-Acebes, MA and Höfle, U and Saiz, JC}, title = {A Recombinant Subviral Particle-Based Vaccine Protects Magpie (Pica pica) Against West Nile Virus Infection.}, journal = {Frontiers in microbiology}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {1133}, pmid = {31231320}, issn = {1664-302X}, abstract = {The mosquito-borne West Nile virus (WNV) is a highly neurovirulent Flavivirus currently representing an emergent zoonotic concern. WNV cycles in nature between mosquito vectors and birds that act as amplifier hosts and play an essential role in virus ecology, being, thus, WNV a threat to many species. Availability of an efficient avian vaccine would benefit certain avian populations, both birds grown for hunting and restocking activities, as well as endangered species in captive breeding projects, wildlife reservations, and recreation installations, and would be useful to prevent and contain outbreaks. Avian vaccination would be also of interest to limit WNV spillover to humans or horses from susceptible bird species that live in urbanized landscapes, like magpies. Herein, we have addressed the efficacy of a single dose of a WNV recombinant subviral particle (RSP) vaccine in susceptible magpie (Pica pica). The protective capacity of the RSP-based vaccine was demonstrated upon challenge of magpies with 5 × 10[3] plaque forming units of a neurovirulent WNV strain. A significant improvement in survival rates of immunized birds was recorded when compared to vehicle-inoculated animals (71.4 vs. 22.2%, respectively). Viremia, which is directly related to the capacity of a host to be competent for virus transmission, was reduced in vaccinated animals, as was the presence of infectious virus in feather follicles. Bird-to-bird transmission was recorded in three of six unchallenged (contact) magpies housed with non-vaccinated WNV-infected birds, but not in contact animals housed with vaccinated WNV-infected magpies. These results demonstrate the protective efficacy of the RSP-based vaccine in susceptible birds against WNV infection and its value in controlling the spread of the virus.}, }
@article {pmid31227256, year = {2019}, author = {Lyman, RL}, title = {Misunderstanding graphs: The confusion of biological clade diversity diagrams and archaeological frequency seriation diagrams.}, journal = {Studies in history and philosophy of biological and biomedical sciences}, volume = {77}, number = {}, pages = {101178}, doi = {10.1016/j.shpsc.2019.101178}, pmid = {31227256}, issn = {1879-2499}, mesh = {Archaeology/*methods ; Cluster Analysis ; Paleontology/*methods ; Statistics as Topic ; }, abstract = {Graph perception involves the accurate decipherment of (often quantitative) data displayed in visual form. Because graph style may reflect discipline-specific tradition, similar graph styles in distinct disciplines can be subject to misinterpretation. Both archaeologist James A. Ford and paleobiologist Stephen Jay Gould confused spindle diagrams representing archaeological frequency seriation and paleontological clade diversity analysis as displaying the same kinds of data and representing the same processes. Similarities between the two kinds of analysis are, however, limited to the use of the same graph style-spindle diagrams-to illustrate the history of frequencies of things. The kinds of frequencies differ in two ways between the two disciplines; frequencies are of low-level Linnaean taxa within a clade representing a higher taxon in paleobiology, and are frequencies of artifact specimens within each of several types in archaeology. Further, frequencies are absolute in clade diversity and relative in frequency seriation. Clade diversity analysis, as practiced by Gould and colleagues, is a time-series analysis that requires knowing the age of taxa prior to analysis of the shape of the spindle diagram. Frequency seriation in archaeology involves ordering multiple collections of artifacts that share at least some types; ordering is based on similar frequencies and a presumed unimodal frequency distribution, and the order is inferred to be a chronology. Different analytical assumptions and goals result in discipline specific rules of graph decipherment, though each of the two kinds of analyses can be performed in each of the two disciplines.}, }
@article {pmid31222390, year = {2019}, author = {Liu, D and Brice, B and Elliot, A and Ryan, U and Yang, R}, title = {Isospora coronoideae n. sp. (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) from the Australian raven (Corvus coronoides) (Passeriformes: Corvidae) (Linnaeus, 1758) in Western Australia.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {118}, number = {8}, pages = {2399-2408}, pmid = {31222390}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Columbidae/parasitology ; Crows/*parasitology ; Electron Transport Complex IV/genetics ; Isospora/classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Isosporiasis/parasitology/*veterinary ; Oocysts/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Phylogeny ; Protozoan Proteins/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 28S/genetics ; Western Australia ; }, abstract = {A new Isospora (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) species is described from an Australian raven (Corvus coronoides) in Western Australia. Sporulated oocysts (n = 21) are ovoid, 21.2 (18.4-23.9) μm in length and 18.8 (16.9-20.6) μm in width, with a shape index of 1.13. The bi-layered oocyst wall is smooth and colourless, 1.2 μm thick. A polar granule and oocyst residuum is present, but the micropyle is absent. The sporocysts are ovoid-shaped, 16.3 (13.7-18.9) × 10.7 (8.4-12.9) μm, with a shape index (length/width) of 1.52. Stieda and substieda bodies are present, the Stieda body being small and hemidome-shaped and the substieda being indistinct. Each sporocyst with four vermiform sporozoites arranged head to tail. The sporozoites are crescent-shaped, 9.0 (8.9-9.2) × 2.7 (2.3-3.0) μm, with a shape index (length/width) of 3.33. The sporocyst residuum is present. The isolated oocysts had different morphological characteristics when compared with all known Isospora spp. The coccidian parasite was analysed at the 18S and 28S ribosomal RNA and the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase (COI) loci. At the 18S locus, I. coronoideae n. sp. exhibited 98.9% similarity to I. neochmiae from a captive-bred red-browed finch (KT224380) and Isospora sp. from domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica) (AB757860), 98.5% similarity to I. gryphoni (AF080613) from an American goldfinch and 98.3% similarity to I. manorinae (KT224379) from a yellow-throated miner. At the 28S locus, it exhibited 95.4% and 94.8% similarity to I. manorinae (KT224381) and I. anthochaerae (KF766053), respectively. At the COI locus, it exhibited 99.8% and 99.7% similarity to I. butcherae (KY801687) and I. neochmiae (KT224378), respectively. Based on morphological and molecular data, this isolate is a new species of Isospora, which is named Isospora coronoideae n. sp. after its host, the Australian raven (Corvus coronoides) (Passeriformes: Corvidae) (Linnaeus, 1758).}, }
@article {pmid31221944, year = {2019}, author = {Schwartz, SR and Hammon, KA and Gafner, A and Dahl, A and Guttman, N and Fong, M and Schauss, AG}, title = {Novel Hydrolyzed Chicken Sternal Cartilage Extract Improves Facial Epidermis and Connective Tissue in Healthy Adult Females: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.}, journal = {Alternative therapies in health and medicine}, volume = {25}, number = {5}, pages = {12-29}, pmid = {31221944}, issn = {1078-6791}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; *Chickens ; Collagen Type II/*administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology ; Costal Cartilage/*chemistry ; Double-Blind Method ; Epidermis/*drug effects ; Face/blood supply ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Sternum/*chemistry ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {CONTEXT: Dietary supplement manufacturers claim cutaneous anti-aging properties for their products; however, research supporting these claims remains sparse.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The study intended to determine if a correlation existed between the effects of a collagen dietary supplement and changes associated with skin aging.<br><br>DESIGN: The study was a 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.<br><br>SETTING: The study took place at a clinical facility specializing in dermatological testing that could perform biophysical, instrumental analysis on the effects of proprietary supplement on human skin.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: Participants were 128 females, aged 39-59 (50.57 &#xb1; 5.55).<br><br>INTERVENTION: Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention or a placebo. The intervention consisted of twice daily oral administration of a supplement containing 500 mg BioCell Collagen, a chicken sternal cartilage derived dietary ingredient composed of a naturally-occurring matrix of hydrolyzed collagen type-II (&#x2265;300 mg), chondroitin sulfate (&#x2265;100 mg), hyaluronic acid (&#x2265;50 mg).<br><br>OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary parameters included transepidermal water loss, viscoelasticity, hydration, (indirect) collagen content, chromophore (melanin) content and hemoglobin level, and photographic analysis. An expert visually graded participants' skin to determine the intervention's efficacy, measuring facial lines and wrinkles, crow's feet lines and wrinkles, skin texture and smoothness, and skin tone. The presence of erythema and/or dryness determined tolerance. Secondary outcome measures were tolerance and incidence of adverse events, and the participant's perception of the supplement's value.<br><br>RESULTS: For the 113 participants completing the study, the dietary supplementation compared to a placebo: (1) significantly reduced facial lines and wrinkles (P = .019) and crow's feet lines and wrinkles (P = .05), (2) increased skin elasticity (P = .008) and cutaneous collagen content (P < .001) by 12%, (3) improved indicators associated with a more youthful skin appearance based on visual grading and wrinkle width (P = .046), and (4) decreased skin dryness and erythema. No difference existed between the supplement and the placebo for skin-surface water content or retention. The supplement was well tolerated, with no reported adverse reactions.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Dietary supplementation with chicken, sternal cartilage extract supports the accumulation of types-I/III collagen in skin to promote increased elasticity and reduced skin wrinkling.}, }
@article {pmid31217759, year = {2019}, author = {Kunishige, M and Fukuda, H and Iida, T and Kawabata, N and Ishizuki, C and MIyaguchi, H}, title = {Spatial navigation ability and gaze switching in older drivers: A driving simulator study.}, journal = {Hong Kong journal of occupational therapy : HKJOT}, volume = {32}, number = {1}, pages = {22-31}, pmid = {31217759}, issn = {1876-4398}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Driving ability in older people is affected by declining motor, cognitive and visual functions. We compared perceptual and cognitive skills and driving behaviour in a Japanese population.<br><br>METHODS: We used a driving simulator to measure the effects of spatial navigation skills and eye movements on driving ability. Participants were 34 older and 20 young adults who completed a simulated driving task involving a lane change and a right turn at an intersection. We used an eye tracker to measure gaze. We measured visual recognition (Benton Judgment of Line Orientation Test (BJLO)), spatial navigation (Card-Placing Test (CPT A &amp; B)), visual perception (Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM)) and driving ability (Stroke Drivers' Screening Assessment).<br><br>RESULTS: Older participants scored significantly lower on the BJLO, CPT-A &amp; B and RCPM, showed a significant correlation between gaze time and CPT-A &amp; B scores (both p&#x2009;<&#x2009;.01) and had a longer gaze time. There were significant between-group differences in saccade switching (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;.01 right turn), distance per saccade (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;.05 for right turn and lane change) and saccade total distance (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;.05 right turn; p&#x2009;<&#x2009;.01 lane change). There was an association between age and rate of gaze at the right door mirror (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.04).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The findings indicate that older drivers have poorer eye movement control and spatial navigation. This is likely to result in delayed responses and difficulties in predicting the on-coming driving environment. Driving simulation could help older drivers in their driving abilities.}, }
@article {pmid31209171, year = {2019}, author = {Wang, C and Xu, T and Geng, F and Hu, Y and Wang, Y and Liu, H and Chen, F}, title = {Training on Abacus-Based Mental Calculation Enhances Visuospatial Working Memory in Children.}, journal = {The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience}, volume = {39}, number = {33}, pages = {6439-6448}, pmid = {31209171}, issn = {1529-2401}, mesh = {Brain/*physiology ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; Learning/*physiology ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Mathematics ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Neuronal Plasticity/*physiology ; *Teaching ; Teaching Materials ; }, abstract = {Abacus-based mental calculation (AMC) involves temporary storage and manipulation of an imaginary abacus closely related to the function of visuospatial working memory (VSWM). The present study thus investigated the effects of AMC training on VSWM and its neural correlates. A total of 144 human subjects (67 boys) were assigned to AMC or control groups at their entry to primary school. The AMC group received 2 h AMC training per week for 5 school years, whereas the control group spent the time in activities, such as conventional calculation and reading. Raven's Intelligence Test was administered both before and after training. Two arithmetic tests and a VSWM task were conducted after training. Among these participants, fMRI data were collected from 64 children for the VSWM task. Behavioral results indicated that the AMC group outperformed controls on both arithmetic and VSWM tasks, but not on Raven's Intelligence Test. While the two groups activated similar regions during the VSWM task, the AMC group showed greater activation than the controls in frontal, parietal, and occipital areas. Interestingly, the activation of right middle frontal gyrus mediated the relation between the arithmetic ability and the VSWM performance in the AMC group, suggesting that the frontal region may be the neural substrate underlying the transfer effect from AMC training to VSWM. Although the transfer effects seem quite limited considering the length and intensity of the training, these findings suggest that long-term AMC training not only improves arithmetic ability but also has a potential positive effect on VSWM.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Plasticity of working memory is one of the most rapidly expanding research fields in the developmental and cognitive sciences. Previous studies suggest that abacus-based mental calculation (AMC) relies on a visuospatial imaginary strategy, which is closely related to visuospatial working memory (VSWM). However, the impacts of AMC training on VSWM and the underlying neural basis remain unclear. Here, we found that AMC training enhanced VSWM in children, which was accompanied by altered activation in frontal, parietal, and occipital areas. Moreover, we observed that activation in right middle frontal gyrus played a significant mediation role in the transfer of AMC training to VSWM. These findings provide a new perspective to VSWM training and also advance our understanding of related brain plasticity.}, }
@article {pmid31205989, year = {2019}, author = {Malone, SA and Pritchard, VE and Heron-Delaney, M and Burgoyne, K and Lervåg, A and Hulme, C}, title = {Data on numerosity discrimination, inhibition and arithmetic during the early school years.}, journal = {Data in brief}, volume = {25}, number = {}, pages = {104062}, pmid = {31205989}, issn = {2352-3409}, abstract = {Participants consisted of 496 children (mean age = 6 years; 9 months) recruited from 11 schools in Brisbane, Australia. Children were assessed on the addition and subtraction subtests of the Test of Basic Arithmetic and Number Skills (TOBANS), an adapted version of the Head-Toes-Knees-Shoulders task to measure inhibition, numerosity discrimination using eight subtests varying ratio (2:3 or 5:6) and congruency, and non-verbal cognitive ability using an adapted version of Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices. Information on children's demographics (gender, English as an additional language, and learning difficulty status) is also provided. All assessments were administered during the second year of formal schooling (i.e. Grade 1). Findings regarding the impact of inhibition on the relation between numerosity discrimination and arithmetic are reported elsewhere [1].}, }
@article {pmid31202152, year = {2019}, author = {Firooz, S and Setarehdan, SK}, title = {IQ estimation by means of EEG-fNIRS recordings during a logical-mathematical intelligence test.}, journal = {Computers in biology and medicine}, volume = {110}, number = {}, pages = {218-226}, doi = {10.1016/j.compbiomed.2019.05.017}, pmid = {31202152}, issn = {1879-0534}, mesh = {Adult ; *Algorithms ; Brain/*physiology ; *Electroencephalography ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Models, Neurological ; *Spectroscopy, Near-Infrared ; }, abstract = {Intelligence differences of individuals are attributed to the structural and functional differences of the brain. Neural processing operations of the human brain vary according to the difficulty level of the problem and the intelligence level of individuals. In this study, we used a bimodal system consisting of functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) and Electroencephalogram (EEG) to investigate these inter-individual differences. A continuous wave 32-channel fNIRS from OxyMonfNIRS device (Artinis) and 19-channel EEG from (g.tec's company) were utilized to study the oxygenation procedure as well as the electrical activity of the brain when doing the problems of Raven's Progressive Matrix (RPM) intelligence test. We used this information to estimate the Intelligence Quotient (IQ) of the individual without performing a complete logical-mathematical intelligence test in a long-time period and examining the answers of people to the questions. After EEG preprocessing, different features including Higuchi's fractal dimension, Shannon entropy values from wavelet transform coefficients, and average power of frequency sub-bands were extracted. Clean fNIRS signals were also used to compute features such as slope, mean, variance, kurtosis, skewness, and peak. Then dimension reduction algorithms such as Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were applied to select an effective feature set from fNIRS and EEG in order to improve the IQ estimation process. We utilized two regression methods, i.e., Linear Regression (LR) and Support Vector Regression (SVR), to extract optimum models for the IQ determination. The best regression models based on fNIRS-EEG and fNIRS presented 3.093% and 3.690% relative error for 11 subjects, respectively.}, }
@article {pmid31196019, year = {2019}, author = {Poh, BK and Lee, ST and Yeo, GS and Tang, KC and Noor Afifah, AR and Siti Hanisa, A and Parikh, P and Wong, JE and Ng, ALO and , }, title = {Low socioeconomic status and severe obesity are linked to poor cognitive performance in Malaysian children.}, journal = {BMC public health}, volume = {19}, number = {Suppl 4}, pages = {541}, pmid = {31196019}, issn = {1471-2458}, mesh = {Body Mass Index ; Child ; Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/*epidemiology/etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Income ; Intelligence Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Malaysia/epidemiology ; Male ; Nutrition Surveys ; Nutritional Status ; Obesity, Morbid/epidemiology/*psychology ; Parents ; Poverty/*psychology ; Prevalence ; *Social Class ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Socioeconomic factors and nutritional status have been associated with childhood cognitive development. However, previous Malaysian studies had been conducted with small populations and had inconsistent results. Thus, this present study aims to determine the association between socioeconomic and nutritional status with cognitive performance in a nationally representative sample of Malaysian children.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 2406 Malaysian children aged 5 to 12&#x2009;years, who had participated in the South East Asian Nutrition Surveys (SEANUTS), were included in this study. Cognitive performance [non-verbal intelligence quotient (IQ)] was measured using Raven's Progressive Matrices, while socioeconomic characteristics were determined using parent-report questionnaires. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated using measured weight and height, while BMI-for-age Z-score (BAZ) and height-for-age Z-score (HAZ) were determined using WHO 2007 growth reference.<br><br>RESULTS: Overall, about a third (35.0%) of the children had above average non-verbal IQ (high average: 110-119; superior: &#x2265;120&#xa0;and above), while only 12.2% were categorized as having low/borderline IQ (<&#x2009;80). Children with severe obesity (BAZ >&#xa0;3SD), children from very low household income families and children whose parents had only up to primary level education had the highest prevalence of low/borderline non-verbal IQ, compared to their non-obese and higher socioeconomic counterparts. Parental lack of education was associated with low/borderline/below average IQ [paternal, OR&#x2009;=&#x2009;2.38 (95%CI 1.22, 4.62); maternal, OR&#x2009;=&#x2009;2.64 (95%CI 1.32, 5.30)]. Children from the lowest income group were twice as likely to have low/borderline/below average IQ [OR&#x2009;=&#x2009;2.01 (95%CI 1.16, 3.49)]. Children with severe obesity were twice as likely to have poor non-verbal IQ than children with normal BMI [OR&#x2009;=&#x2009;2.28 (95%CI 1.23, 4.24)].<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Children from disadvantaged backgrounds (that is those from very low income families and those whose parents had primary education or lower) and children with severe obesity are more likely to have poor non-verbal IQ. Further studies to investigate the social and environmental factors linked to cognitive performance will provide deeper insights into the measures that can be taken to improve the cognitive performance of Malaysian children.}, }
@article {pmid31183599, year = {2019}, author = {Muhammad, N and Suleman,  and Ma, J and Khan, MS and Li, L and Zhao, Q and Ahmad, MS and Zhu, XQ}, title = {Characterization of the complete mitochondrial genome of Sphaerirostris picae (Rudolphi, 1819) (Acanthocephala: Centrorhynchidae), representative of the genus Sphaerirostris.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {118}, number = {7}, pages = {2213-2221}, pmid = {31183599}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Acanthocephala/*classification/*genetics ; Amino Acid Sequence/genetics ; Animals ; Base Sequence ; Calcium-Transporting ATPases/genetics ; Cyclooxygenase 1/genetics ; DNA, Intergenic/genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/*genetics ; DNA, Protozoan/genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; Genome, Mitochondrial/*genetics ; Intestine, Small/*parasitology ; Pakistan ; Passeriformes/*parasitology ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; }, abstract = {The Centrorhynchidae (Acanthocephala: Palaeacanthocephala) is a cosmopolitan family commonly found in various avian and mammalian hosts. Within Centrorhynchidae, species of the genus Sphaerirostris Golvan, 1956 are usually parasitic in the digestive tract of various passerine birds. In the present study, adult specimens of Sphaerirostris picae (Rudolphi, 1819), the type species of this genus, were recovered from the small intestine of Acridotheres tristis (Sturnidae) and Dendrocitta vagabunda (Corvidae) in Pakistan. Molecular data from the nuclear or mitochondrial genome is either very limited or completely absent from this phylogenetically understudied group of acanthocephalans. To fill this knowledge gap, we sequenced and determined the internal transcribed spacers of ribosomal DNA (ITS rDNA) and the complete mitochondrial (mt) genome of S. picae. The ITS rDNA of S. picae was 95.2% similar to that of Sphaerirostris lanceoides which is the only member of the Centrorhynchidae whose ITS rDNA is available in GenBank. The phylogenetic tree based on the amino acid sequences of 12 mt protein-coding genes (PCGs) placed S. picae close to Centrorhynchus aluconis in a monophyletic clade of Polymorphida which also contain members of the families Polymorphidae and Plagiorhynchidae on separate branches. The mt gene arrangement, nucleotide composition and codon usage of 12 PCGs were discussed and compared with those of other acanthocephalan mt genomes. Within the Centrorhynchidae, S. picae and C. aluconis showed 67.7-86.8% similarity in the nucleotide sequences of 12 PCGs and 2 rRNAs, where nad4L is the most conserved gene while atp6 is the least conserved. The similarity in amino acid sequences ranged from 68.1 to 91.8%, where cox1 was recorded as the most conserved gene, while atp6 is highly variable among 12 PCGs. This novel mt genome of S. picae provides genetic resources for further studies of phylogenetics and molecular epidemiology of acanthocephalans.}, }
@article {pmid31183119, year = {2019}, author = {Sutton, AO and Strickland, D and Freeman, NE and Newman, AEM and Norris, DR}, title = {Autumn freeze-thaw events carry over to depress late-winter reproductive performance in Canada jays.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {6}, number = {4}, pages = {181754}, pmid = {31183119}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {Evidence suggests that range-edge populations are highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, but few studies have examined the specific mechanisms that are driving observed declines. Species that store perishable food for extended periods of time may be particularly susceptible to environmental change because shifts in climatic conditions could accelerate the natural degradation of their cached food. Here, we use 40 years of breeding data from a marked population of Canada jays (Perisoreus canadensis) located at the southern edge of their range in Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, to examine whether climatic conditions prior to breeding carry over to influence reproductive performance. We found that multiple measures of Canada jay reproductive performance (brood size, nest success and nestling condition) in the late winter were negatively correlated with the number of freeze-thaw events the previous autumn. Our results suggest that freeze-thaw events have a significant detrimental impact on the quality and/or quantity of cached food available to Canada jays. Future increases in such events, caused by climate change, could pose a serious threat to Canada jays and other food caching species that store perishable foods for long periods of time.}, }
@article {pmid31182151, year = {2019}, author = {Van Hemert, C and Meixell, BW and Smith, MM and Handel, CM}, title = {Prevalence and diversity of avian blood parasites in a resident northern passerine.}, journal = {Parasites &amp; vectors}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {292}, pmid = {31182151}, issn = {1756-3305}, mesh = {Alaska/epidemiology ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/parasitology ; Climate Change ; Crows/*parasitology ; DNA, Protozoan/genetics ; Ecosystem ; *Genetic Variation ; Haemosporida/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Host Specificity ; Host-Parasite Interactions ; Parasites/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Parasitic Diseases, Animal/*blood/epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; Plasmodium/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Prevalence ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Climate-related changes are expected to influence the prevalence and distribution of vector-borne haemosporidian parasites at northern latitudes, although baseline information about resident birds is still lacking. In this study, we investigated prevalence and genetic diversity of Plasmodium, Haemoproteus, and Leucocytozoon parasites infecting the northwestern crow (Corvus caurinus), a non-migratory passerine with unique life-history characteristics. This species occupies both intertidal and forested habitats and is subject to high prevalence of avian keratin disorder (AKD), a disease that causes gross beak deformities. Investigation of avian blood parasites in northwestern crows at sites broadly distributed across coastal Alaska provided an opportunity to evaluate specific host factors related to parasite infection status and assess geographical patterns of prevalence.<br><br>RESULTS: We used molecular methods to screen for haemosporidian parasites in northwestern crows and estimated genus-specific parasite prevalence with occupancy modeling that accounts for imperfect detection of parasite infection. We observed considerable geographical and annual variation in prevalence of Plasmodium, Haemoproteus, and Leucocytozoon, but these patterns were not correlated with indices of local climatic conditions. Our models also did not provide support for relationships between the probability of parasite infection and body condition or the occurrence of co-infections with other parasite genera or clinical signs of AKD. In our phylogenetic analyses, we identified multiple lineages of each parasite genus, with Leucocytozoon showing greater diversity than Plasmodium or Haemoproteus.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Results from this study expand our knowledge about the prevalence and diversity of avian blood parasites in northern resident birds as well as corvids worldwide. We detected all three genera of avian haemosporidians in northwestern crows in Alaska, although only Leucocytozoon occurred at all sites in both years. Given the strong geographical and annual variation in parasite prevalence and apparent lack of correlation with climatic variables, it appears that there are other key factors responsible for driving transmission dynamics in this region. Thus, caution is warranted when using standard climatic or geographical attributes in a predictive framework. Our phylogenetic results demonstrate lower host specificity for some lineages of Leucocytozoon than is typically reported and provide insights about genetic diversity of local haemosporidian parasites in Alaska.}, }
@article {pmid31179289, year = {2019}, author = {Gutierrez, JC and Holladay, SD and Arzi, B and Clarkson, C and Larsen, R and Srivastava, S}, title = {Improvement of Spatial and Non-verbal General Reasoning Abilities in Female Veterinary Medical Students Over the First 64 Weeks of an Integrated Curriculum.}, journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {141}, pmid = {31179289}, issn = {2297-1769}, abstract = {Spatial visualization ability is defined as the ability to mentally rotate two- and three-dimensional figures. Visual reasoning is the ability to manipulate mental images of an object to reach a certain conclusion and has been linked to spatial ability. There is currently limited information about how entry-level spatial and visual reasoning abilities may be enhanced with progression through the rigorous veterinary medical curriculum. The present study made use of two tests that measure spatial ability and one test that measures non-verbal general reasoning ability in female veterinary students: Guay's Visualization of Views Test, Adapted Version (VVT), Mental Rotations Test (MRT), and Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices Test, short form (APMT). Tests were given immediately before commencing the integrated veterinary medical curriculum (T0), at week 32 (T1), and at week 64 (T2) into the program. Results showed improved spatial visualization ability as measured by VVT and MRT and improved non-verbal general reasoning ability as measured by APMT at both 32 and 64 weeks. The spatial ability scores measured by VVT and MRT showed a positive correlation with non-verbal general reasoning ability scores (APMT), supporting the idea that these abilities are linked.}, }
@article {pmid31176471, year = {2019}, author = {Ramchandran, K and Zeien, E and Andreasen, NC}, title = {Distributed neural efficiency: Intelligence and age modulate adaptive allocation of resources in the brain.}, journal = {Trends in neuroscience and education}, volume = {15}, number = {}, pages = {48-61}, doi = {10.1016/j.tine.2019.02.006}, pmid = {31176471}, issn = {2211-9493}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Attention/physiology ; Brain/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Models, Neurological ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Whether superior intelligence is associated with global lower resource consumption in the brain remains unresolved. In order to tap fluid intelligence "Gf" cortical networks, 50 neurologically healthy adults were functionally neuro-imaged while solving a modified version of the Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices. "Gf" predicted increased activation of key components of the dorsal attention network (DAN); and age predicted extent of simultaneous deactivation in key components of the default mode network (DMN) during problem-solving. However, there was no significant difference in mean levels of whole brain activation even when cognitively taxed. This suggests that the brain may dynamically switch resource consumption between these anti-correlated DAN and DMN networks, concentrating processing power in regions critical to enhanced cognitive performance. We term this mechanism of activation increase and decrease of these anti-correlated DAN/DMN systems, modulated by "Gf" and age, as "distributed neural efficiency". This may achieve local cost-efficiency trade-offs, while maintaining global energy homeostasis.}, }
@article {pmid31174704, year = {2019}, author = {Ghafouri, SA and Fallah Mehrabadi, MH and Talakesh, SF and Hosseini, H and Ziafati, Z and Malekan, M and Aghaeean, L and Ghalyanchilangeroudi, A}, title = {Full genome characterization of Iranian H5N8 highly pathogenic avian influenza virus from Hooded Crow (Corvus cornix), 2017: The first report.}, journal = {Comparative immunology, microbiology and infectious diseases}, volume = {64}, number = {}, pages = {73-80}, doi = {10.1016/j.cimid.2019.03.005}, pmid = {31174704}, issn = {1878-1667}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*virology ; Disease Outbreaks ; *Genome, Viral ; Hemagglutinin Glycoproteins, Influenza Virus/genetics ; Influenza A Virus, H5N8 Subtype/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Influenza in Birds/*epidemiology/*virology ; Iran/epidemiology ; Mutation ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Viral/genetics ; Reassortant Viruses/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {During 2014-2017 Clade 2.3.4.4 H5N8 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) have spread worldwide. In 2016, an epidemic of HPAIV H5N8 in Iran caused mass deaths among wild birds, and several commercial poultry farms and captive bird holdings were affected and continue to experience problems. Several outbreaks were reported in 2017. One of them is related to Hooded crow (Corvus cornix) in a national park in Esfahan province in 2017. Whole genome sequencing and characterization have been done on the detected H5N8 sample. Based on HA sequencing results, it belongs to 2.3.4.4 clade, and the cleavage site is (PLREKRRKR/G). Phylogenetic analysis of the HA gene showed that the Iran 2017 H5N8 virus clustered within subgroup Russia 2016 2.3.4.4 b of group B in H5 clade 2.3.4.4 HPAIV. On the other hand, the NA gene of the virus is placed in group C of Eurasian lineage. Complete genome characterization of this virus revealed probable reassortment of the virus with East-Asian low-pathogenic influenza viruses. Furthermore, the virus possessed some phenotypic markers related to the increased potential for transmission and pathogenicity to mammals at internal segments. This study is the first full genome characterization H5N8 HPAIV in Iran. The data complete the puzzle of molecular epidemiology of H5N8 HPAIV in Iran and the region. Our study provides evidence for fast and continuing reassortment of H5 clade 2.3.4.4 viruses, that might lead to changes in virus structural and functional characteristics such as the route and method of transmission of the virus and virus infective, pathogenic and zoonotic potential.}, }
@article {pmid31162385, year = {2019}, author = {Warne, RT and Burton, JZ and Gibbons, A and Melendez, DA}, title = {Stephen Jay Gould's Analysis of the Army Beta Test in The Mismeasure of Man: Distortions and Misconceptions Regarding a Pioneering Mental Test.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {31162385}, issn = {2079-3200}, abstract = {In The Mismeasure of Man, Stephen Jay Gould argued that the preconceived beliefs and biases of scientists influence their methods and conclusions. To show the potential consequences of this, Gould used examples from the early days of psychometrics and allied fields, arguing that inappropriate assumptions and an elitist desire to rank individuals and/or groups produced incorrect results. In this article, we investigate a section of The Mismeasure of Man in which Gould evaluated the Army Beta intelligence test for illiterate American draftees in World War I. We evaluated Gould's arguments that the Army Beta (a) had inappropriate content, (b) had unsuitable administration conditions, (c) suffered from short time limits, and (d) could not have measured intelligence. By consulting the historical record and conducting a pre-registered replication of Gould's administration of the test to a sample of college students, we show that Gould mischaracterized the Army Beta in a number of ways. Instead, the Army Beta was a well-designed test by the standards of the time, and all evidence indicates that it measured intelligence a century ago and can, to some extent, do so today.}, }
@article {pmid31159743, year = {2019}, author = {Wang, Y and Guo, J and Wang, L and Tian, H and Sui, J}, title = {Transcriptome analysis revealed potential mechanisms of differences in physiological stress responses between caged male and female magpies.}, journal = {BMC genomics}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {447}, pmid = {31159743}, issn = {1471-2164}, support = {2015HXFWBHQ-SJL-01//Beijing Wildlife Conservation Station/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Avian Proteins/*genetics ; Birds/genetics/*physiology ; Female ; Gene Expression Profiling/*methods ; Gene Expression Regulation ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/*methods ; Housing, Animal/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; *Stress, Physiological ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Under caged conditions, birds are affected more severely by environmental stressors such as dietary structure, activity space, human disturbances, and pathogens, which may be reflected in the gene expression in peripheral blood or other tissues. Elucidating the molecular mechanism of these stress responses will help improve animal welfare.<br><br>RESULTS: In the present study, the blood transcriptomes of six male and five female caged magpies (Pica pica) were sequenced, and a total of ~&#x2009;100 Gb in clean reads were generated using the Illumina HiSeq 2000 sequencer. A total of 420,291 unigenes were identified after assembly, of which 179,316 were annotated in five databases, 7471 were assigned to 269 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, and 566 were assigned to the Clusters of Orthologous Groups (COG) functional classification "defense mechanisms". Analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) showed that 2657 unigenes were differentially expressed between males and females (q&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.1), and these DEGs were assigned to 45 KEGG pathways involving stress resistance, immunity, energy metabolism, reproduction, lifespan regulation, and diseases. Further analysis revealed that females might be more sensitive to stress through upregulation of c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNKs) and 5'AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and were also possibly more sensitive to dynamic changes in energy. Females expressed higher major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II levels than males, enhancing resistance to pathogens, and the DEGs related to reproduction included MAPK, CaMK, CPEB, and Cdc25. The genes related to stress, energy, and immunity were also likely related to the regulation of longevity. The upregulated JNKs in females might prolong lifespan and relieve antioxidant stress. Females may also activate the AMPK pathway and implement dietary restrictions to prolong lifespan, whereas males may upregulate SIRT1 and CRAB to increase lifespan.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Female magpies might be more sensitive to stress and dynamic changes in energy thus enhanced resistance to pathogens, and the genes related to stress, energy, and immunity were also possibly related to the regulation of longevity. Further confirmations with techniques such as RT-qPCR and western blot are necessary to validate the above arguments.}, }
@article {pmid31158507, year = {2019}, author = {Ospanov, OB}, title = {Surgical technique of laparoscopic mini-gastric bypass with obstructive stapleless pouch creation: A case series.}, journal = {International journal of surgery (London, England)}, volume = {67}, number = {}, pages = {70-75}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijsu.2019.05.011}, pmid = {31158507}, issn = {1743-9159}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Gastric Bypass/*methods ; Humans ; Jejunostomy/*methods ; Laparoscopy/*methods ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Obesity, Morbid/*surgery ; Stomach/*surgery ; Surgical Stomas ; Sutures ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic mini-gastric bypass (MGB) is a bariatric procedure which is gaining popularity worldwide. The original Rutledge technique is known to have good outcomes, but this and other surgical procedures that involve the use of staplers are very expensive for use in low-income countries. For this reason, the laparoscopic band-separated gastric bypass was developed. This paper aimed to describe a modified MGB technique without the use of staplers.<br><br>METHODS: We present a modification of the MGB with the use of an obstructive stapleless pouch and anastomosis (MGB-Ospanov procedure). The technique is based on our experience in 32 patients who underwent the procedure involving this technique between January 2016 and December 2018.<br><br>RESULTS: As in the original Rutledge version that uses staples, a long conduit is created below the crow's foot, extending up to the angle of His. The main differences between the MGB-Ospanov procedure and the stapler technique are as follows: creation of a gastric pouch from the anterior wall of the stomach; non-use of staplers; non-intersection of the stomach; use of semi-absorbable (or absorbable) strips of mesh; use of gastroplication to obstruct the communication between the gastric pouch and the bypassed greater part of the stomach. Gastrojejunostomy is performed using a hand-sewn suture at 150-200&#x202f;cm distal from the ligament of Treitz. The body mass index (kg/m[2]) was 26.36&#x202f;&#xb1;&#x202f;4.0 after surgery vs 41.6&#x202f;&#xb1;&#x202f;6.1 before surgery (P&#x202f;<&#x202f;0.0001).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The MGB-Ospanov procedure with an obstructive stapleless pouch and hand-sewn anastomosis is more feasible and cheaper than the stapler technique. Not using staplers could potentially help in avoiding bleeding and leakage along the stapler line when creating a gastric pouch. However, further research is warranted to confirm these results.}, }
@article {pmid31156579, year = {2019}, author = {Sen, K and Berglund, T and Soares, MA and Taheri, B and Ma, Y and Khalil, L and Fridge, M and Lu, J and Turner, RJ}, title = {Antibiotic Resistance of E. coli Isolated From a Constructed Wetland Dominated by a Crow Roost, With Emphasis on ESBL and AmpC Containing E. coli.}, journal = {Frontiers in microbiology}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {1034}, pmid = {31156579}, issn = {1664-302X}, abstract = {Information on the dissemination of antibiotic resistance mechanisms in the environment as well as wild life is needed in North America. A constructed wetland (where ∼15,000 American crows roost) was sampled on the University of Washington Bothell Campus for the presence of antibiotic resistant E. coli (ARE). Crow droppings from individual birds and grab samples of water were collected in 2014-2015. E. coli were isolated by selective agar plating. The most frequent antibiotic resistance (AR) of the fecal isolates was to ampicillin (AMP) (53%), followed by amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (AMC) (45%), streptomycin (S) (40%), and nalidixic acid (NA) (33%). Water isolates had similar AR pattern and ∼40% were multidrug resistant. Isolates from water samples collected during storm events showed higher resistance than isolates from no rain days to tetracycline, AMP, AMC, NA, and gentamycin. Extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) containing E. coli with the bla ctx-M was found in three water and nine fecal isolates while bla cmy-2 in 19 water and 16 fecal isolates. Multilocus Sequence Typing analysis (MLST) yielded 13 and 12 different sequence types (STs) amongst fecal and water isolates, many of which could be correlated to livestock, bird, and humans. MLST identified ESBL E. coli belonging to the clinically relevant ST131 clone in six fecal and one water isolate. Three STs found in feces could be found in water on the same dates of collection but not subsequently. Thus, the strains do not appear to survive for long in the wetland. Phylogenetic analysis revealed similar distribution of the water and fecal isolates among the different phylo-groups, with the majority belonging to the commensal B1 phylo-group, followed by the pathogenic B2 phylo-group. This study demonstrates that corvids can be reservoirs and vectors of ARE and pathogenic E. coli, posing a significant environmental threat.}, }
@article {pmid31152024, year = {2019}, author = {Strøm, M and Mortensen, EL and Kesmodel, US and Halldorsson, T and Olsen, J and Olsen, SF}, title = {Is breast feeding associated with offspring IQ at age 5? Findings from prospective cohort: Lifestyle During Pregnancy Study.}, journal = {BMJ open}, volume = {9}, number = {5}, pages = {e023134}, pmid = {31152024}, issn = {2044-6055}, mesh = {*Breast Feeding ; Child Development/*physiology ; Child, Preschool ; Denmark/epidemiology ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant Nutritional Physiological Phenomena/physiology ; Infant, Newborn ; Intelligence/*physiology ; *Intelligence Tests ; Life Style ; Pregnancy ; Prospective Studies ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Breast feeding is associated with health benefits for both mother and child, but many studies focusing on neurodevelopment have lacked information on important confounders and few randomised trials exist. Our objective was to examine the influence of breast feeding on child IQ at 5 years of age while taking maternal IQ and other relevant factors into account.<br><br>DESIGN: Prospective observational study.<br><br>SETTING: Population-based birth cohort in Denmark.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: We used data from The Lifestyle During Pregnancy Study 1782 mother-child pairs sampled from the Danish National Birth Cohort (n=101&#x2009;042).<br><br>OUTCOME MEASURES: Child IQ was assessed at age 5 years by the Wechsler Primary and Preschool Scales of Intelligence-Revised. On the same occasion maternal intelligence was assessed by Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. Exposure data on duration of breast feeding (n=1385) were extracted from telephone interviews conducted when the child was 6 and 18 months, and analyses were weighted by relevant sampling fractions.<br><br>RESULTS: In multivariable linear regression analyses adjusted for potential confounders breast feeding was associated with child IQ at 5 years (categorical &#x3c7;[2] test for overall association p=0.03). Compared with children who were breast fed &#x2264;1&#x2009;month, children breast fed for 2-3, 4-6, 7-9 and 10 or more months had 3.06 (95% CI 0.39 to 5.72), 2.03 (95% CI -0.38 to 4.44), 3.53 (95% CI 1.18 to 5.87) and 3.28 (95% CI 0.88 to 5.67) points higher IQ after adjustment for core confounders, respectively. There was no dose-response relation and further analyses indicated that the main difference in IQ was between breast feeding &#x2264;1&#x2009;month versus >1&#x2009;month.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Breastfeeding duration of 1&#x2009;month or shorter compared with longer periods was associated with approximately three points lower IQ, but there was no evidence of a dose-response relation in this prospective birth cohort, where we were able to adjust for some of the most critical confounders, including maternal intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid31148101, year = {2019}, author = {Federspiel, IG and Boeckle, M and von Bayern, AMP and Emery, NJ}, title = {Exploring individual and social learning in jackdaws (Corvus monedula).}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {47}, number = {3}, pages = {258-270}, pmid = {31148101}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; *Crows ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Learning ; Male ; *Social Learning ; }, abstract = {Information about novel environments or foods can be gathered via individual or social learning. Whereas individual learning is assumed to be more costly and less effective than social learning, it also yields more detailed information. Juveniles are often found to be more explorative than adults. Still under the protection of their parents, this allows them to sample their environment in preparation for later in life. We tested individual and social learning in jackdaws (Corvus monedula) of different age groups in a semi-natural group setting. Juvenile and adult jackdaws differed in their learning propensity. Juveniles spent more time at the test apparatus, were more explorative, and caused the apparatus to open. Almost all the openings at the apparatus matched the demonstrated method. As more observers became available, the juveniles could observe each other. Individuals preferentially watched successful conspecifics and those they could scrounge food from. Lower-ranking individuals tended to watch higher ranking ones; higher ranking individuals preferentially watched conspecifics of similar rank. The control group did not manipulate the apparatus. Due to the lack of this baseline, it was difficult to determine for certain whether the opening technique was acquired via individual or social learning. We conclude that if social learning played a role, the underlying mechanism was most likely local or stimulus enhancement. It is, however, more parsimonious to assume that juveniles were more explorative than adults, and that their opening technique was potentially easier to acquire than the one demonstrated to adults.}, }
@article {pmid31144163, year = {2019}, author = {Gellrich, J and Dabow, ML and Vogelberg, C and Reschke, F and Näke, A and von der Hagen, M and Schriever, VA}, title = {Influence of chronic diseases on the olfactory function in children.}, journal = {European journal of pediatrics}, volume = {178}, number = {8}, pages = {1185-1193}, pmid = {31144163}, issn = {1432-1076}, support = {-//MedDrive/ ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Asthma/*complications ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Chronic Disease ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/*complications ; Female ; Humans ; Hypothyroidism/*complications ; Male ; Olfaction Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology ; Retrospective Studies ; Rhinitis, Allergic/*complications ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {The association between smell impairment and chronic diseases has been reported in some studies in adults. Such information is not available for chronic diseases in children. The aim of this study was to examine olfactory function of children with chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus type 1, hypothyroidism, and bronchial asthma in combination with allergic rhinitis in comparison to healthy controls. The data were obtained from n = 205 participants (104 boys, 101 girls) between the age of 6 and 17 years. Seventy-eight of the participants were healthy controls, n = 43 had diabetes mellitus type 1, n = 50 suffer from allergic rhinitis or bronchial asthma, and 34 presented a reduced function of their thyroid in medical history. All participants underwent olfactory testing including olfactory threshold using "Sniffin' Sticks" and odor identification using the "U-Sniff" test. In addition, a depression inventory and cognitive testing using the Ravens Progressive Matrices was performed. No significant difference in olfactory function was observed for any of the chronic diseases in children in comparison to healthy controls. Further analysis showed a trend in significance for a subpopulation of children with bronchial asthma and comorbidities performed worse on the olfactory threshold test compared to patients with bronchial asthma without comorbidities. Pediatric patients suffering from chronic diseases scored higher on the depression inventory compared to healthy controls.Conclusion: In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the influence of chronic diseases (bronchial asthma, diabetes mellitus type 1 and hypothyroidism) on olfactory function in childhood, if any, seems to be insignificant. This is partly in contrast to adult patients. Further research should be conducted in a subgroup of patients with bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis or other comorbidities to better understand the association of allergic diathesis and olfactory function and the putative pathogenesis of olfactory dysfunction. What is known: • The association between smell impairment and chronic diseases has been reported in some studies in adults. • Such information is not available for chronic diseases in children. What is new: • The influence of chronic diseases (bronchial asthma, diabetes mellitus type 1, and hypothyroidism) on olfactory function in childhood, if any, seems to be insignificant. • In patients with bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis, only a subgroup of patients with additional comorbidity (atopic dermatitis) showed a tendency to a reduced sense of smell.}, }
@article {pmid31132942, year = {2019}, author = {Mudry, A and Ruben, RJ}, title = {The Fox and the Crow: Predatory Open Access Journals in Otolaryngology.}, journal = {Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery : official journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery}, volume = {161}, number = {2}, pages = {193-194}, doi = {10.1177/0194599819838756}, pmid = {31132942}, issn = {1097-6817}, mesh = {*Access to Information ; *Otolaryngology ; Peer Review, Research ; *Periodicals as Topic ; }, abstract = {Otolaryngologists regularly receive invitations from open access otolaryngology–head and neck surgery journals to submit papers or to join the editorial board. Some of these journals are considered “predatory.” There has been no published attempt to see if bogus otolaryngological articles would be accepted by such journals. We sent a fake article describing a supposed otosclerotic lesion localized in the fallopian tube and surgically treated by phacoemulsification of the stapes to 41 such journals. Eight journals accepted the paper, 7 requested structural revision, 2 requested revision even though the reviewer recommended rejection, 4 rejected the paper only because they found it had already been published by another open access journal (without the authors’ knowledge), and 2 rejected the paper. Eighteen journals had not responded after 6 weeks. A contemporary retelling of the poem “The Fox and the Crow” concludes our article, which illustrates predatory practices among specific open access otolaryngology journals.}, }
@article {pmid31110007, year = {2019}, author = {Adriaense, JEC and Martin, JS and Schiestl, M and Lamm, C and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Negative emotional contagion and cognitive bias in common ravens (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {116}, number = {23}, pages = {11547-11552}, pmid = {31110007}, issn = {1091-6490}, mesh = {Animals ; Arousal/physiology ; Attention/physiology ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Bias ; Cognition/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Emotions/*physiology ; Empathy/physiology ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Emotional contagion is described as an emotional state matching between subjects, and has been suggested to facilitate communication and coordination in complex social groups. Empirical studies typically focus on the measurement of behavioral contagion and emotional arousal, yet, while highly important, such an approach often disregards an additional evaluation of the underlying emotional valence. Here, we studied emotional contagion in ravens by applying a judgment bias paradigm to assess emotional valence. We experimentally manipulated positive and negative affective states in demonstrator ravens, to which they responded with increased attention and interest in the positive condition, as well as increased redirected behavior and a left-eye lateralization in the negative condition. During this emotion manipulation, another raven observed the demonstrator's behavior, and we used a bias paradigm to assess the emotional valence of the observer to determine whether emotional contagion had occurred. Observers showed a pessimism bias toward the presented ambiguous stimuli after perceiving demonstrators in a negative state, indicating emotional state matching based on the demonstrators' behavioral cues and confirming our prediction of negative emotional contagion. We did not find any judgment bias in the positive condition. This result critically expands upon observational studies of contagious play in ravens, providing experimental evidence that emotional contagion is present not only in mammalian but also in avian species. Importantly, this finding also acts as a stepping stone toward understanding the evolution of empathy, as this essential social skill may have emerged across these taxa in response to similar socioecological challenges.}, }
@article {pmid31108570, year = {2019}, author = {Miller, R and Boeckle, M and Jelbert, SA and Frohnwieser, A and Wascher, CAF and Clayton, NS}, title = {Self-control in crows, parrots and nonhuman primates.}, journal = {Wiley interdisciplinary reviews. Cognitive science}, volume = {10}, number = {6}, pages = {e1504}, pmid = {31108570}, issn = {1939-5086}, support = {3399933//FP7 Ideas: European Research Council/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Cognition ; *Crows ; Humans ; *Parrots ; *Primates ; *Self-Control ; }, abstract = {Self-control is critical for both humans and nonhuman animals because it underlies complex cognitive abilities, such as decision-making and future planning, enabling goal-directed behavior. For instance, it is positively associated with social competence and life success measures in humans. We present the first review of delay of gratification as a measure of self-control in nonhuman primates, corvids (crow family) and psittacines (parrot order): disparate groups that show comparable advanced cognitive abilities and similar socio-ecological factors. We compare delay of gratification performance and identify key issues and outstanding areas for future research, including finding the best measures and drivers of delayed gratification. Our review therefore contributes to our understanding of both delayed gratification as a measure of self-control and of complex cognition in animals. This article is categorized under: Cognitive Biology > Evolutionary Roots of Cognition Psychology > Comparative Psychology.}, }
@article {pmid31107635, year = {2019}, author = {Forzán, MJ and Renshaw, RW and Bunting, EM and Buckles, E and Okoniewski, J and Hynes, K and Laverack, M and Fadden, M and Dastjerdi, A and Schuler, K and Dubovi, EJ}, title = {A NOVEL ORTHOREOVIRUS ASSOCIATED WITH EPIZOOTIC NECROTIZING ENTERITIS AND SPLENIC NECROSIS IN AMERICAN CROWS (CORVUS BRACHYRHYNCHOS).}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {55}, number = {4}, pages = {812-822}, pmid = {31107635}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; *Crows ; Enteritis ; New York/epidemiology ; Orthoreovirus/*classification/genetics ; Phylogeny ; Reoviridae Infections/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; Retrospective Studies ; Splenic Diseases/*veterinary/virology ; }, abstract = {Epizootic mortalities in American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) during the winter months, referred to as winter mortality of crows, have been recorded in North America for almost two decades. The most common postmortem findings include necrotizing enteritis, colitis, and fibrinous splenic necrosis. These findings are proposed to be due to infection with a Reovirus sp. Our objectives were to characterize the pathology and seasonality of the epizootics in New York State (NYS), confirm the causative role of an Orthoreovirus sp., and determine its phylogeny. On the basis of our proposed case definition for reovirosis, we examined case data collected by the NYS Wildlife Health Program for 16 yr. A total of 558 cases of reovirosis were recorded between 2001 and 2017. Reovirosis had a clear seasonal presentation: cases occurred almost exclusively in winter months (71% in December-January). Detailed data from a 2-yr period (2016-17) demonstrated that reovirosis caused up to 70% of all recorded crow deaths during epizootic months. Crows with positive orthoreovirus isolation from the spleen or intestine were 32 times more likely to die with characteristic histologic lesions of enteritis or enterocolitis and splenic necrosis than crows with negative isolation results. An in situ hybridization probe specific to virus isolated from NYS crow reovirosis cases demonstrated a direct association between viral presence and characteristic histologic lesions. Sigma C (capsid protein) sequences of isolates from NYS crows showed high homology with Tvärminne avian virus, recently proposed as a novel Corvus orthoreovirus clade, and only distantly related to the avian orthoreovirus clade. Our study indicated that a novel orthoreovirus was the cause of winter mortality (or reovirosis) of American Crows and placed the NYS isolates in the newly proposed genus of Corvid orthoreovirus.}, }
@article {pmid31105617, year = {2019}, author = {Chuang, KY and Chen, YH and Balachandran, P and Liang, WK and Juan, CH}, title = {Revealing the Electrophysiological Correlates of Working Memory-Load Effects in Symmetry Span Task With HHT Method.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {855}, pmid = {31105617}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Complex span task is one of the commonly used cognitive tasks to evaluate an individual's working memory capacity (WMC). It is a dual task consisting of a distractor subtask and a memory subtask. Though multiple studies have utilized complex span tasks, the electrophysiological correlates underlying the encoding and retrieval processes in working memory span task remain uninvestigated. One previous study that assessed electroencephalographic (EEG) measures utilizing complex span task found no significant difference between its working memory loads, a typical index observed in other working memory tasks (e.g., n-back task and digital span task). The following design constructs of the paradigm might have been the reason. (1) The fixed-time limit of the distractor subtask may have hindered the assessment of individual WMC precisely. (2) Employing a linear-system-favoring EEG data analysis method for a non-linear system such as the human brain. In the current study, the participants perform the Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAMP) task on 1 day and the symmetry span (Sspan) task on the other. Prior to the formal Sspan task, the participants were instructed to judge 15 simple symmetry questions as quickly as possible. A participant-specific time-limit is chartered from these symmetry questions. The current study utilizes the Sspan task sequential to a distractor subtask. Instead of the fixed time-limit exercised in the previous study, the distractor subtask of the current study was equipped with the participant-specific time-limit obtained from the symmetry questions. This could provide a precise measure of individual WMC. This study investigates if the complex span task resonates EEG patterns similar to the other working memory tasks in terms of working memory-load by utilizing ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) of Hilbert-Huang transform (HHT). Prior expectations were to observe a decrement in the P300 component of event-related mode (ERM) and a decrement in the power of alpha and beta band frequency with increasing working memory-load. We observed a significantly higher P300 amplitude for the low-load condition compared to the high-load condition over the circumscribed brain network across F4 and C4 electrodes. Time-frequency analysis revealed a significant difference between the high- and low-load conditions at alpha and beta band over the frontal, central, and parietal channels. The results from our study demonstrate precise differences in EEG data pertaining to varied memory-load differences in the complex span task. Thus, assessing complex span tasks with the HHT-based analysis may aid in achieving a better signal to noise ratio and effect size for the results in working memory EEG studies.}, }
@article {pmid31104191, year = {2021}, author = {D'Agati, D and Beaudry, MB and Swartz, K}, title = {Thirteen Reasons Why Revisited: A Monograph for Teens, Parents, and Mental Health Professionals.}, journal = {The Journal of medical humanities}, volume = {42}, number = {3}, pages = {345-353}, pmid = {31104191}, issn = {1573-3645}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Health Personnel ; Homicide ; Humans ; *Mental Health ; Parents ; *Suicide ; United States ; }, abstract = {Jay Asher's novel Thirteen Reasons Why and its Netflix adaptation have enjoyed widespread popularity. While they draw needed attention to issues like bullying and teen estrangement, they may have an unintended effect: they mislead about the etiology of suicide and even glamorize it to a degree. The medical literature has shown that suicide is almost always the result of psychiatric disorder, not provocative stress, in much the same way an asthmatic crisis is primarily the result of an underlying medical condition, not an allergic stimulus. Both the novel and Netflix series ignore this premise and even belittle the idea. Thus, while the story has artistic merits, it also has the potential to be destructive if accessed by young readers and viewers seeking guidance. Approximately ten percent of teens suffer from depression, and suicide recently surpassed homicide as the second-leading cause of death among persons ages ten to twenty-four in the United States. A more balanced view addressing these misconceptions is provided for teens, parents, and mental health professionals.}, }
@article {pmid31099977, year = {2019}, author = {Krupenye, C and Call, J}, title = {Theory of mind in animals: Current and future directions.}, journal = {Wiley interdisciplinary reviews. Cognitive science}, volume = {10}, number = {6}, pages = {e1503}, doi = {10.1002/wcs.1503}, pmid = {31099977}, issn = {1939-5086}, support = {Synergy Grant 609819 SOMICS//H2020 European Research Council/ ; MENTALIZINGORIGINS//H2020 Marie Sk&#x142;odowska-Curie Actions/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; Humans ; Psychological Theory ; *Theory of Mind ; }, abstract = {Theory of mind (ToM; a.k.a., mind-reading, mentalizing, mental-state attribution, and perspective-taking) is the ability to ascribe mental states, such as desires and beliefs, to others, and it is central to the unique forms of communication, cooperation, and culture that define our species. As a result, for 40 years, researchers have endeavored to determine whether ToM is itself unique to humans. Investigations in other species (e.g., apes, monkeys, corvids) are essential to understand the mechanistic underpinnings and evolutionary origins of this capacity across taxa, including humans. We review the literature on ToM in nonhuman animals, suggesting that some species share foundational social cognitive mechanisms with humans. We focus principally on innovations of the last decade and pressing directions for future work. Underexplored types of social cognition have been targeted, including ascription of mental states, such as desires and beliefs, that require simultaneously representing one's own and another's conflicting motives or views of the world. Ongoing efforts probe the motivational facets of ToM, how flexibly animals can recruit social cognitive skills across cooperative and competitive settings, and appropriate motivational contexts for comparative inquiry. Finally, novel methodological and empirical approaches have brought new species (e.g., lemurs, dogs) into the lab, implemented critical controls to elucidate underlying mechanisms, and contributed powerful new techniques (e.g., looking-time, eye-tracking) that open the door to unexplored approaches for studying animal minds. These innovations in cognition, motivation, and method promise fruitful progress in the years to come, in understanding the nature and origin of ToM in humans and other species. This article is categorized under: Cognitive Biology > Evolutionary Roots of Cognition Psychology > Comparative Psychology Neuroscience > Cognition.}, }
@article {pmid31077659, year = {2019}, author = {Ong, CS and Marcum, JA and Zehr, KJ and Cameron, DE}, title = {A Century of Heparin.}, journal = {The Annals of thoracic surgery}, volume = {108}, number = {3}, pages = {955-958}, doi = {10.1016/j.athoracsur.2019.03.104}, pmid = {31077659}, issn = {1552-6259}, mesh = {Anniversaries and Special Events ; Anticoagulants/*history/pharmacology ; Baltimore ; Drug Discovery/*history ; Heparin/*history/pharmacology ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Male ; }, abstract = {The year 2018 was the centennial of the naming of heparin by Emmett Holt and William Howell and the 102nd anniversary of Jay McLean's discovery of an anticoagulant heparphosphatide at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. This article discusses recently discovered historical artifacts that shed new light on heparin's christening, including McLean's unpublished letter written in 1950 that represents one of the most complete accounts of heparin's discovery before his untimely death. In addition, the article describes the finding of a plaque dedicated to McLean and explores the circumstances of its removal from public display, as learned from interviews with present and former staff members.}, }
@article {pmid31063433, year = {2019}, author = {Pastore, RL and Murray, JA and Coffman, FD and Mitrofanova, A and Srinivasan, S}, title = {Physician Review of a Celiac Disease Risk Estimation and Decision-Making Expert System.}, journal = {Journal of the American College of Nutrition}, volume = {38}, number = {8}, pages = {722-728}, doi = {10.1080/07315724.2019.1608477}, pmid = {31063433}, issn = {1541-1087}, mesh = {Autoantibodies/blood ; Biopsy ; Celiac Disease/blood/*diagnosis/pathology ; *Decision Making ; *Expert Systems ; Humans ; *Physicians ; Reproducibility of Results ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {Objective: Celiac disease is a genetic disease affecting people of all ages, resulting in small intestine enteropathy. It is considered to be a clinical chameleon. Average prevalence of celiac disease is 1 out of 100 people with data indicating the risk may be as high as 22% for those with first-degree relatives with the disease. Eighty-three percent of people with celiac disease may be undiagnosed. Average duration to diagnosis is 10 years. Data indicate that there is a lack of consensus regarding diagnostics and symptomatology.Method: A clinical decision support system (CDSS) was developed using Exsys Corvid for expert analysis (CD-CDSS). The CD-CDSS was divided into symptoms and manifestations with 80 points of navigation, and a serology section, and was validated by 13 experts in the field of celiac disease using a 10-statement 5-point Likert scale.Results: This scale was analyzed using Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient, which was calculated using SPSS and revealed good internal consistency and reliability with a result of 0.813. One hundred percent of experts agreed that the CD-CDSS is capable of guiding a health care professional through the diagnostic process, contains an accurate list of symptoms based on the clinical literature, and can foster improved awareness and education about celiac disease and that there is a need for this system.Conclusions: A celiac disease risk estimation and decision-making expert system was successfully developed and evaluated by medical professionals, with 100% agreeing that this CD-CDSS is medically accurate and can guide health care professionals through the diagnostic process.}, }
@article {pmid31062834, year = {2019}, author = {Cumbo, E and Cumbo, S and Torregrossa, S and Migliore, D}, title = {Treatment Effects of Vortioxetine on Cognitive Functions in Mild Alzheimer's Disease Patients with Depressive Symptoms: A 12 Month, Open-Label, Observational Study.}, journal = {The journal of prevention of Alzheimer's disease}, volume = {6}, number = {3}, pages = {192-197}, doi = {10.14283/jpad.2019.24}, pmid = {31062834}, issn = {2426-0266}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Alzheimer Disease/complications/*drug therapy/*psychology ; Antidepressive Agents/*therapeutic use ; Depression/complications/*drug therapy ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Prospective Studies ; Treatment Outcome ; Vortioxetine/*therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: depressive symptoms are common in Alzheimer's disease(AD). Aim of the study was to investigate the efficacy of vortioxetine compared with other conventional antidepressants on cognitive functions in AD patients with depressive symptoms.<br><br>DESIGN: Prospective, randomized, 12 month, parallel-group study.<br><br>SETTING: All participants were evaluated on-site at Neurodegenerative Disorders Unit, ASP2 Caltanissetta(Italy).<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: 108(71 female, 37 male) AD patients with depression(mean age 76.7 &#xb1; 4.3).<br><br>INTERVENTION: Randomized subjects received vortioxetine, 15 mg/day(n=36) or other common antidepressants(n=72).<br><br>MEASURES: Primary outcome was change from baseline in the MMSE; secondary outcomes were change in Attentive Matrices, Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices, Digit Span, HAM-D and Cornell scale.<br><br>RESULTS: Statistically significant improvement vs. controls was observed for vortioxetine on most of the cognitive tests and showed significantly baseline-to-endpoint reduction in both HAM-D and Cornell total scores.The most commonly reported adverse events were nausea and headache for votioxetine; nausea in the control group.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Vortioxetine had a beneficial effect on cognition and mood in elderly AD patients and was safe and well tolerated.}, }
@article {pmid31061474, year = {2019}, author = {Ling, H and Mclvor, GE and van der Vaart, K and Vaughan, RT and Thornton, A and Ouellette, NT}, title = {Costs and benefits of social relationships in the collective motion of bird flocks.}, journal = {Nature ecology &amp; evolution}, volume = {3}, number = {6}, pages = {943-948}, doi = {10.1038/s41559-019-0891-5}, pmid = {31061474}, issn = {2397-334X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Cost-Benefit Analysis ; }, abstract = {Current understanding of collective behaviour in nature is based largely on models that assume that identical agents obey the same interaction rules, but in reality interactions may be influenced by social relationships among group members. Here, we show that social relationships transform local interactions and collective dynamics. We tracked individuals' three-dimensional trajectories within flocks of jackdaws, a species that forms lifelong pair-bonds. Reflecting this social system, we find that flocks contain internal sub-structure, with discrete pairs of individuals tied together by spring-like effective forces. Within flocks, paired birds interacted with fewer neighbours than unpaired birds and flapped their wings more slowly, which may result in energy savings. However, flocks with more paired birds had shorter correlation lengths, which is likely to inhibit efficient information transfer through the flock. Similar changes to group properties emerge naturally from a generic self-propelled particle model. These results reveal a critical tension between individual- and group-level benefits during collective behaviour in species with differentiated social relationships, and have major evolutionary and cognitive implications.}, }
@article {pmid31060242, year = {2019}, author = {Preininger, D and Schoas, B and Kramer, D and Boeckle, M}, title = {Waste Disposal Sites as All-You-Can Eat Buffets for Carrion Crows (Corvus corone).}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {9}, number = {5}, pages = {}, pmid = {31060242}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {In cities and densely populated areas, several corvid species are considered nuisance animals. In Austria, particularly carrion (Corvus corone) and hooded crows (C. cornix) are regarded as pests by the general public that frequently cause damage to crops, feed on human waste, and thus spread trash. We conducted a detailed one-year field survey to estimate the abundance of carrion crows in relation to potential anthropogenic food sources and reference sites in the Austrian Rhine valley. Our results demonstrated that the number and proximity of waste management facilities, animal feeding areas, and agricultural areas, and the productive capacity of agricultural areas, predominantly influenced habitat choice and abundance of carrion crows. In the current study, the probability of observing more than two carrion crows at a survey site decreased with increasing human population density. Moreover, the abundance of crows increased despite a continuous increase in crow hunting kills registered during the past 25 years. Our study suggests a regionally comprehensive waste management plan could serve as a promising strategy to manage nuisance birds. A reduction in anthropogenic food supply through improved waste management practices is required for long-term, sustainable management to limit the abundance of crow populations in and close to urban environments.}, }
@article {pmid33791609, year = {2019}, author = {Dayan, S and Yoelin, SG and De Boulle, K and Garcia, JK}, title = {The Psychological Impacts of Upper Facial Lines: A Qualitative, Patient-Centered Study.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal. Open forum}, volume = {1}, number = {2}, pages = {ojz015}, pmid = {33791609}, issn = {2631-4797}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The 11-item Facial Line Outcomes (FLO-11) questionnaire is content validated for measuring the negative psychological impacts of crow's feet lines (CFL).<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The aims of this study were to determine psychological impacts of forehead lines (FHL) alone and upper facial lines (UFL: FHL + CFL + glabellar lines [GL]) and to assess adequacy of FLO-11 to measure these impacts.<br><br>METHODS: Participants aged at least 18 years participated in concept elicitation and cognitive interviews to identify and define psychological impacts of UFL. They completed the FLO-11 questionnaire to assess its ability to measure psychological impacts of facial lines and its comprehensiveness in doing so.<br><br>RESULTS: Forty interviews were completed by 29 participants. Twenty participants each provided interviews for FHL and for UFL. The most commonly reported psychological impacts for FHL and UFL, respectively, were feeling unattractive (85%, 80%), looking less attractive than desired (85%, 70%), feeling bothered (80%, 70%), feeling good/bad about appearance (80%, 70%), looking older than actual age (75%, 65%), and feeling stressed (70%, 70%). For FHL, 70% of participants also reported looking older than desired as a psychological impact. More than 50% of participants agreed that all 11 FLO-11 items measured a psychological impact for FHL. More than 50% reported that 9 of 11 items measured a psychological impact for UFL. The majority of participants (FHL, 65%; UFL, 60%) reported that the FLO-11 questionnaire is comprehensive in measuring psychological impacts of facial lines.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: FHL and UFL have psychological impacts on patients, and FLO-11 is a content valid, comprehensive instrument for measuring them.}, }
@article {pmid31054314, year = {2019}, author = {Lee, DH and Killian, ML and Torchetti, MK and Brown, I and Lewis, N and Berhane, Y and Swayne, DE}, title = {Intercontinental spread of Asian-origin H7 avian influenza viruses by captive bird trade in 1990's.}, journal = {Infection, genetics and evolution : journal of molecular epidemiology and evolutionary genetics in infectious diseases}, volume = {73}, number = {}, pages = {146-150}, doi = {10.1016/j.meegid.2019.04.028}, pmid = {31054314}, issn = {1567-7257}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Birds/*virology ; Commerce ; Genome, Viral ; Global Health ; History, 20th Century ; *Influenza A Virus, H7N1 Subtype/genetics/pathogenicity ; *Influenza A Virus, H7N9 Subtype/genetics/pathogenicity ; Influenza in Birds/epidemiology/history/*transmission/*virology ; Internationality ; Virulence ; }, abstract = {Wild bird migration and illegal trade of infected poultry, eggs, and poultry products have been associated with the spread of avian influenza viruses (AIV). During 1992-1996, H7N1 and H7N8 low pathogenic AIV (LPAIV) were identified from captive wild birds; such as Pekin robin (Leiothrix lutea), magpie robin (Copsychus saularis), flycatcher sp. (genus Empidonax), a species of softbill and parakeet, sun conure (Aratinga solstitialis), painted conure (Pyrrhura picta), fairy bluebird (Irena puella), and common iora (Aegithina tiphia), kept in aviaries or quarantine stations in England, The Netherlands, Singapore and the United States (U.S.). In this study, we sequenced these H7 viruses isolated from quarantine facilities and aviaries using next-generation sequencing and conducted a comparative phylogenetic analysis of complete genome sequences to elucidate spread patterns. The complete genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis suggested that H7 viruses originated from a common source, even though they were obtained from birds in distant geographical regions. All H7N1 and H7N8 viruses were LPAIV, except a H7N1 highly pathogenic AIV (HPAIV), A/Pekin robin/California/30412/1994(H7N1) virus. Our results support the continued need for regulation of the captive wild bird trade to reduce the risk of introduction and dissemination of both LPAIV and HPAIV throughout the world.}, }
@article {pmid31046468, year = {2020}, author = {Snow, PC and Timms, L and Lum, JAG and Powell, MB}, title = {Narrative language skills of maltreated children living in out-of-home care.}, journal = {International journal of speech-language pathology}, volume = {22}, number = {2}, pages = {117-128}, doi = {10.1080/17549507.2019.1598493}, pmid = {31046468}, issn = {1754-9515}, mesh = {Child ; *Child Abuse ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; Language Development Disorders/epidemiology/*etiology ; Male ; *Narration ; }, abstract = {Purpose: Children's narrative accounts of their experiences are central to the prosecution of perpetrators of alleged maltreatment. We describe the narrative language skills of children who were placed in out-of-home care (OOHC) following substantiated maltreatment. It was hypothesised that (i) children with such histories would display narrative language skills that fall significantly below published age-expected norms, (ii) narrative language skills and core language skills would be positively correlated and (iii) narrative language skills would be associated with measures of socio-economic disadvantage.Method: Eighty-three children (40 males and 43 females) aged 5;3 to 12;10 (M = 7.9, SD = 2.3) from English-speaking home backgrounds were assessed using the Test of Narrative Language and the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals (CELF-4) Core Language Score. The Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, a measure of nonverbal intelligence, was employed as a covariate.Result: Forty-two percent of children scored in the below-average range on the Narrative Language Index Ability Index. The same proportion scored at/above age-expected levels on the Narrative Comprehension subtest, and 19% scored at/above age-expected levels on Oral Narration. There was a significant correlation between CELF-4 Core Language Scores and the Narrative Language Index Ability Index. Female carers' education was significantly positively associated with overall narrative language scores; however, household income and index of socio-economic disadvantage were not significantly associated with narrative language scores.Conclusion: Children who are victims of substantiated maltreatment should be considered at-risk for compromised ability to provide a narrative account of their experiences. The heterogeneity and often scant oral narrative language skills of these children highlights the importance of police/human services training on best-practice forensic interviewing. Policy and practice implications for speech-language pathology early intervention to support the needs of at-risk children are also discussed.}, }
@article {pmid31040366, year = {2019}, author = {Lee, VE and McIvor, GE and Thornton, A}, title = {Testing relationship recognition in wild jackdaws (Corvus monedula).}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {6710}, pmid = {31040366}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {NE/L002434/1//RCUK | Natural Environment Research Council (NERC)/International ; BB/H021817/1//RCUK | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)/International ; BB/H021817/2//RCUK | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)/International ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Crows ; Female ; Male ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {According to the social intelligence hypothesis, understanding the challenges faced by social animals is key to understanding the evolution of cognition. In structured social groups, recognising the relationships of others is often important for predicting the outcomes of interactions. Third-party relationship recognition has been widely investigated in primates, but studies of other species are limited. Furthermore, few studies test for third-party relationship recognition in the wild, where cognitive abilities are deployed in response to natural socio-ecological pressures. Here, we used playback experiments to investigate whether wild jackdaws (Corvus monedula) track changes in their own relationships and the relationships of others. Females were presented with 'infidelity simulations': playbacks of their male partner copulating with a neighbouring female, and their male neighbour copulating with another female, against a congruent control. Our results showed substantial inter-individual variation in responses, but females did not respond more strongly to infidelity playbacks, indicating that jackdaws may not attend and/or respond to relationship information in this experimental context. Our results highlight the need for further study of relationship recognition and other cognitive traits that facilitate group-living in the wild, particularly in non-primates and in a wider range of social systems.}, }
@article {pmid31039066, year = {2019}, author = {Hung, A and Gedey, R and Groeneweg, M and Jay, M}, title = {A Primer for Managed Care Residents: How to Conduct Research Using Live Medical and Pharmacy Claims Data.}, journal = {Journal of managed care &amp; specialty pharmacy}, volume = {25}, number = {5}, pages = {538-543}, pmid = {31039066}, issn = {2376-1032}, mesh = {Data Interpretation, Statistical ; Humans ; Insurance Claim Review/*standards ; Internship and Residency ; Managed Care Programs/economics/*organization &amp; administration ; Pharmaceutical Services/economics/*organization &amp; administration ; Pharmacy Research/*methods/standards ; *Research Design ; United States ; }, abstract = {Managed care organizations are growing more sophisticated in their ability to analyze data. There are increasing numbers of data analysts at managed care organizations, as well as more types of real-time, or "live," data available. These data range from pharmacy claims and enrollment files to medical claims, medical records, and linkages to external data. Moreover, the data are often curated in a way that allows for easier data analysis. Using these data, managed care residents are often required to perform a project to evaluate a utilization management policy or clinical program. Yet, there is a lack of guidance specific to managed care organizations on how to conduct such a research study using "live" claims data. This Viewpoint article provides a primer for managed care residents and other managed care professionals who are seeking to use data to help inform decisions on how to manage their beneficiaries' health and costs. DISCLOSURES: There was no funding source for this manuscript. Hung reports a grant from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and personal fees from Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, outside the submitted work. Gedey, Groeneweg, and Jay have nothing to disclose.}, }
@article {pmid31033133, year = {2019}, author = {Boisnic, S and Keophiphath, M and Serandour, AL and Branchet, MC and Le Breton, S and Lamour, I and Gaillard, E}, title = {Polar lipids from wheat extract oil improve skin damages induced by aging: Evidence from a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial in women and an ex vivo study on human skin explant.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {18}, number = {6}, pages = {2027-2036}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.12967}, pmid = {31033133}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//Robertet Group/ ; }, mesh = {Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; In Vitro Techniques ; Lipids/pharmacology ; Middle Aged ; Plant Extracts/*pharmacology ; Plant Oils/*pharmacology ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; *Triticum ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Polar lipids from wheat (Triticum vulgare/aestivum) extract oil (WEO) are known to improve skin hydration.<br><br>AIMS: These studies aimed to assess WEO benefits on the skin appearance of middle-aged women.<br><br>METHODS: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study was carried out on 64 healthy women, aged from 45 to 60&#xa0;years, to investigate antiaging effects and benefits for the skin. The study lasted 20&#xa0;weeks including 12&#xa0;weeks of oral supplementation with WEO or placebo and 8&#xa0;weeks of follow-up. Wrinkles in the "crow's-feet" area were evaluated by the Lemperle score. Skin hydration was measured using a corneometer, while roughness and radiance were determined by clinical scoring. Collagen content was quantified in human skin explants exposed to ultraviolet (UV) irradiations and treated with WEO or vehicle control.<br><br>RESULTS: Compared to the placebo group, the Lemperle score was significantly reduced in the WEO group between W0 and W8 to reach a clinically significant 1 grade at W12. Facial hydration was significantly improved in the WEO group from W0 to W12, whereas leg hydration was significantly increased after 4&#xa0;weeks and lasted throughout the supplementation period. Skin roughness and radiance were also significantly improved from W0 to W8 in the WEO group compared to placebo group. A higher collagen content was measured in the UV-irradiated skin explants treated with WEO compared to the untreated ones.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These results confirmed the moisturizing effect of WEO and, for the first time, revealed its potential antiaging properties.}, }
@article {pmid31020476, year = {2019}, author = {Wang, W and Wang, A and Yang, Y and Wang, F and Liu, Y and Zhang, Y and Sharshov, K and Gui, L}, title = {Composition, diversity and function of gastrointestinal microbiota in wild red-billed choughs (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax).}, journal = {International microbiology : the official journal of the Spanish Society for Microbiology}, volume = {22}, number = {4}, pages = {491-500}, doi = {10.1007/s10123-019-00076-2}, pmid = {31020476}, issn = {1618-1905}, support = {2018-ZJ-932Q//the Natural Science Foundation of Qinghai Province of China/ ; 31701573//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 31460569//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2016-ZJ-Y01//the Project of Qinghai Science &amp; Technology Department/ ; 2017-ZZ-21//the Open Project of State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University/ ; 2018-THY-02//the project of Tao He Yuan National Wetland Park in Qinghai Province/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/microbiology ; Bacteria/classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Biodiversity ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Gastrointestinal Tract/microbiology ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Songbirds/*microbiology ; }, abstract = {Hitherto, virtually nothing is known about the microbial communities related to the bird species in the family Corvidae. To fill this gap, the present study was conducted to provide a baseline description of the gut microbiota of wild red-billed choughs (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax). In this study, microbiota from four gastrointestinal locations (oropharynx, gizzard, small intestine, and large intestine) of three wild red-billed choughs were analyzed using the Illumina MiSeq sequencing platform by targeting the V4-V5 regions of the 16S rRNA genes. The gut microbiota of the red-billed choughs were dominated by the phylum Firmicutes (59.56%), followed by Proteobacteria (16.56%), Bacteroidetes (13.86%), and Actinobacteria (7.03%), which were commonly detected in avian gut ecosystems. Genus-level compositions were found to be largely dominated by Lactobacillus (18.21%), Weissella (12.37%), Erysipelatoclostridium (6.94%), Bacteroides (6.63%), Escherichia-Shigella (5.15%), Leuconostoc (4.60%), Proteus (3.33%), Carnobacterium (2.71%), Lactococcus (1.69%), and Enterococcus (1.63%). The overall intestinal microbiota was enriched with functions related to ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, DNA repair and recombination proteins, purine metabolism, ribosome, transcription factors, pyrimidine metabolism, peptidases, and two-component system. In terms of four different gastrointestinal locations, hierarchical clustering analysis and principal coordinate analysis showed that microbial communities of the oropharynx, gizzard, small intestine, and large intestine formed four separated clusters. A total of 825 OTUs and 382 genera were detected in all four gastrointestinal locations, which were considered as the major microbes in the intestines of red-billed choughs. Coexistence of lactic acid bacteria and potential pathogens in the gut environments of red-billed choughs required further investigations.}, }
@article {pmid31012079, year = {2019}, author = {Burgoyne, AP and Hambrick, DZ and Altmann, EM}, title = {Is working memory capacity a causal factor in fluid intelligence?.}, journal = {Psychonomic bulletin &amp; review}, volume = {26}, number = {4}, pages = {1333-1339}, pmid = {31012079}, issn = {1531-5320}, support = {N00014-16-1-2457//Office of Naval Research/ ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Problem Solving ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {It is well established that measures of reasoning ability and of working memory capacity (WMC) correlate positively. However, the question of what explains this relationship remains open. The purpose of this study was to investigate the capacity hypothesis, which ascribes causality to WMC. This hypothesis holds that people high in WMC are more successful in capacity-demanding cognitive tasks than people lower in WMC because they can temporarily maintain more information in the form of sub-goals, hypotheses, and partial solutions. Accordingly, this hypothesis predicts that the correlation between WMC and reasoning performance should increase as the capacity demands of the reasoning items increase. We tested this prediction using items from Raven's Progressive Matrices and two measures of WMC, complex span and the k estimate from the Visual Arrays task. Neither WMC measure showed the effect predicted by the capacity hypothesis. Furthermore, the results cannot be attributed to restriction of range in performance on the individual reasoning items. This finding adds to existing evidence calling into question the capacity hypothesis, and, more generally, the view that WMC has a causal influence on fluid intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid31011531, year = {2019}, author = {Hildebrand, J and Pyrka, E and Sitko, J and Jeżewski, W and Zaleśny, G and Tkach, VV and Laskowski, Z}, title = {Molecular phylogeny provides new insights on the taxonomy and composition of Lyperosomum Looss, 1899 (Digenea, Dicrocoeliidae) and related genera.}, journal = {International journal for parasitology. Parasites and wildlife}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {90-99}, pmid = {31011531}, issn = {2213-2244}, abstract = {Lyperosomum Looss, 1899 is one of the largest genera of the Dicrocoeliidae and is one of the best examples of the systematic complexity and taxonomic instability within this family. We present the molecular analyses based on novel sequences of nuclear and mitochondrial genes obtained from 56 isolates of adult flukes and larval stages of dicrocoeliids belonging to Lyperosomum, Skrjabinus, Zonorchis as well as previously available sequence data. According to obtained results we propose to return Zonorchis clathratus and Z. petiolatus into Lyperosomum, and to recognize L. alagesi as a synonym of L. petiolatum. Our study shows that L. petiolatum commonly occurs in Europe in corvids as well as in several species of migratory songbirds, e.g. Sylvia atricapilla. At the same time, the Turdidae appear to host a distinct species of Lyperosomum. The phylogenetic analysis has clearly demonstrated the paraphylepic nature of Lyperosomum and indicated the need of its thorough revision preferably using specimens from type hosts and type territories of nominal species. In addition, inclusion of numerous not yet sequenced dicrocoeliid genera into future phylogenetic studies is necessary to clarify the interrelationships of taxa within the family and stabilize its system.}, }
@article {pmid31006991, year = {2019}, author = {Zurfluh, K and Albini, S and Mattmann, P and Kindle, P and Nüesch-Inderbinen, M and Stephan, R and Vogler, BR}, title = {Antimicrobial resistant and extended-spectrum β-lactamase producing Escherichia coli in common wild bird species in Switzerland.}, journal = {MicrobiologyOpen}, volume = {8}, number = {11}, pages = {e845}, pmid = {31006991}, issn = {2045-8827}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*microbiology ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial ; Escherichia coli/classification/*drug effects/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Escherichia coli Infections/microbiology/*veterinary ; Feces/*microbiology ; Genotype ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; Phylogeny ; Plasmids/analysis ; Switzerland ; beta-Lactamases/genetics ; }, abstract = {A total of 294 fecal swabs from 294 wild birds in Switzerland were cultivated for antimicrobial resistant (AMR) Escherichia coli. Samples were also subcultivated to detect E. coli with extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL), carbapenemases, and plasmid-mediated aminoglycoside or colistin resistance, respectively. Samples from 17 (5.8%) of the birds contained 19 AMR E. coli, whereof 26.3% were multidrug resistant. Five (1.7%) ESBL-producing E. coli were detected. The isolates harbored blaCTX-M-1 (two isolated from carrion crows and from one great spotted woodpecker, respectively), blaCTX-M-15 (originating from a grey heron), blaCTX-M-55 (from a carrion crow), and blaCTX-M-65 (from a common blackbird). Phylogenetic analysis assigned three isolates to commensal phylogroups A and B1, one to extraintestinal pathogenic group B2, and one to phylogroup F. Multilocus sequence typing identified sequence types (STs) that have been found previously in ESBL E. coli in wild birds (ST58, ST205, ST540). One isolate harboring blaCTX-M-55 was assigned to the recently emerged fluoroquinolone-resistant, extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli clone ST1193. Wild birds have the potential to disperse AMR, including clinically important resistance genes, from anthropogenic-influenced habitats to diverse areas, including vulnerable natural environments such as surface waters or mountain regions.}, }
@article {pmid31006388, year = {2019}, author = {Te Nijenhuis, J and Choi, YY and van den Hoek, M and Valueva, E and Lee, KH}, title = {Spearman's hypothesis tested comparing Korean young adults with various other groups of young adults on the items of the Advanced Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Journal of biosocial science}, volume = {51}, number = {6}, pages = {875-912}, doi = {10.1017/S0021932019000026}, pmid = {31006388}, issn = {1469-7599}, mesh = {*Cross-Cultural Comparison ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Korea ; Male ; Psychometrics/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Social Environment ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Spearman's hypothesis tested at the subtest level of an IQ battery states that differences between races on the subtests of an IQ battery are a function of the g loadings of these subtests, such that there are small differences between races on subtests with low g loadings and large differences between races on subtests with high g loadings. Jensen (1998) stated that Spearman's hypothesis is a law-like phenomenon. It has also been confirmed many times at the level of items of the Raven's Progressive Matrices. This study hypothesizes that with concern to Spearman's hypothesis, subtests and items function in fundamentally the same way, and tested whether Spearman's hypothesis is confirmed at the item level for White-East Asian comparisons. A group of Korean young adults (N=205) was compared with other groups of young adults from Canada, the US, Russia, Peru and South Africa (total N=4770) who took the Advanced Progressive Matrices. Spearman's hypothesis was strongly confirmed with a sample-size-weighted r with a value of 0.63. Computing the g loadings of the items of the Raven with either the Raven-g or the Wechsler-g led to the same conclusions. Tests of Spearman's hypothesis yielded less-strong outcomes when the 36-item Advanced Progressive Matrices were used than when the 60-item Standard Progressive Matrices were used. There is a substantial correlation between sample size and the outcome of Spearman's hypothesis. So, all four hypotheses were confirmed, showing that a part of the subtest-level nomological net replicates at the item level, strengthening the position that, with concern to Spearman's hypothesis, subtests and items function fundamentally the same. It is concluded that Spearman's hypothesis is still a law-like phenomenon. Detailed suggestions for follow-up research are made.}, }
@article {pmid30987031, year = {2019}, author = {Gryz, J and Krauze-Gryz, D}, title = {Pigeon and Poultry Breeders, Friends or Enemies of the Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis? A Long-Term Study of a Population in Central Poland.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {9}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {30987031}, issn = {2076-2615}, support = {240115, 240104//Ministry of Environment, Poland/ ; }, abstract = {In this study, we focused on a goshawk population in central Poland (study area 105 km[2],forests 24 km[2], seven small forest complexes) which was monitored long-term (with high densitiesrecorded in the 1980s of 16.3 pairs/100 km[2] despite persecution by farmers) to analyse howenvironmental factors (prey availability and changes in the forest structure) influenced populationabundance, breeding parameters, and diet composition. The study was undertaken from 2011-2018,and the results were compared with published data from two previous study periods (1982-1992and 2001-2003). The number of breeding pairs dropped from 17.1 to 8.0; the breeding success wasaround 75% in all study periods. The selection of nesting trees followed the changes in stand speciesand age structure. More nesting attempts per one nest were recorded in the current time period (1.7 vs.1.1), which probably reflected lower anthropopressure (i.e., no cases of persecution were recordedin this study). Diet composition seemed to follow changes in the prey availability: The share ofdomestic pigeons and poultry (the main prey in the 1980s) as well as small game dropped, whilethe share of Eurasian jay and wood pigeon increased. Our studies suggested that anthropogenicfood (poultry and domestic pigeons) played a key role for the goshawk population in thetransformed habitats of the field and forest mosaic.}, }
@article {pmid30971984, year = {2019}, author = {Vibert, N and Braasch, JLG and Darles, D and Potocki, A and Ros, C and Jaafari, N and Rouet, JF}, title = {Adolescents' Developing Sensitivity to Orthographic and Semantic Cues During Visual Search for Words.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {642}, pmid = {30971984}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Two eye-tracking experiments were conducted to assess the influence of words either looking like the target word (orthographic distractors) or semantically related to the target word (semantic distractors) on visual search for words within lists by adolescents of 11, 13, and 15 years of age. In Experiment 1 (literal search task), participants saw the target word before the search (e.g., "raven"), whereas in Experiment 2 (categorical task) the target word was only defined by its semantic category (e.g., "bird"). In both experiments, participants' search times decreased from fifth to ninth grade, both because older adolescents gazed less often at non-target words during the search and because they could reject non-target words more quickly once they were fixated. Progress in visual search efficiency was associated with a large increase in word identification skills, which were a strong determinant of average gaze durations and search times for the categorical task, but much less for the literal task. In the literal task, the presence of orthographic or semantic distractors in the list increased search times for all age groups. In the categorical task, the impact of semantic distractor words was stronger than in the literal task because participants needed to gaze at the semantic distractors longer than at the other words before rejecting them. Altogether, the data support the assumption that the progressive automation of word decoding up until the age of 12 and the better quality of older adolescents' lexical representations facilitate a flexible use of both the perceptual and semantic features of words for top-down guidance within the displays. In particular, older adolescents were better prepared to aim at or reject words without gazing at them directly. Finally, the overall similar progression of the maturation of single word visual search processes and that of more real-life information search within complex verbal documents suggests that the young adolescents' difficulties in searching the Web effectively could be due to their insufficiently developed lexical representations and word decoding abilities.}, }
@article {pmid30967467, year = {2019}, author = {Hanage, WP}, title = {Two Health or Not Two Health? That Is the Question.}, journal = {mBio}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {30967467}, issn = {2150-7511}, support = {U54 GM088558/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents ; Escherichia coli/genetics ; *Escherichia coli Infections ; Genomics ; Humans ; Interspersed Repetitive Sequences ; Livestock ; *One Health ; }, abstract = {How much drug-resistant infections in livestock contribute to disease in humans is controversial. While zoonoses are a prominent cause of emerging infections, and the profligate use of antibiotics as growth promoters is expected to lead to the spread of resistance, this resistance could remain concentrated in animal pathogens and only rarely spill over into humans. A recent paper compares genomes of Escherichia coli isolates from human bloodstream infections in England, focused on the Cambridge area, with isolates collected from farms and the food chain in the east of the country, seeking evidence of transmission (C. Ludden, K. E. Raven, D. Jamrozy, T. Gouliouris, et al., mBio 10:e02693-18, 2019, https://doi.org/10.1128/mBio.02693-18). While the human and livestock populations were clearly distinct, with very limited evidence for transmission of E. coli or resistance elements to humans, the results also illustrate our limited ability to infer historical transmission events from even the best samples. The implications for the One Health framework, aiming to unify human and veterinary medicine, are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid30964426, year = {2019}, author = {McMillan, JR and Marcet, PL and Hoover, CM and Mead, D and Kitron, U and Vazquez-Prokopec, GM}, title = {Feeding Success and Host Selection by Culex quinquefasciatus Say Mosquitoes in Experimental Trials.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {19}, number = {7}, pages = {540-548}, pmid = {30964426}, issn = {1557-7759}, support = {CC999999/ImCDC/Intramural CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Culex/*physiology ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Georgia ; Mosquito Vectors/physiology ; Passeriformes/*blood/classification ; Species Specificity ; West Nile Fever/transmission ; West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {Arthropod vector feeding preferences are defined as an overutilization of a particular host species given its abundance in relationship to other species in the community. Numerous methods exist to quantify vector feeding preferences; however, controlled host choice experiments are generally an underutilized approach. In this report, we present results from controlled vector host choice experiments using Culex quinquefasciatus Say (Diptera: Culicidae) mosquitoes and wild avian hosts identified as important contributors to West Nile virus (WNv) transmission in Atlanta, Georgia, United States. In each experiment, we allowed lab-reared F1Cx. quinquefasciatus to feed freely overnight on two avian individuals of a different species (i.e., northern cardinals, American robins, blue jays, brown thrashers, and gray catbirds). We then estimated WNv transmission potential using vectorial capacity and R0. We found that mosquito blood feeding success was extremely variable among experimental replicates and that patterns of host choice only occasionally aggregated to a particular bird species. Vectorial capacity was highest for American robins and blue jays due to these species' higher reservoir competence for WNv and greater probabilities of mosquito selection of these species. Despite species-specific differences in vectorial capacity, total community capacity was similar among species pairs. R0 estimates were qualitatively similar to capacity, and R0 was below and above unity across species pairs. Our results provide empirical evidence that C. quinquefasciatus is an opportunistic blood feeder and highlight how variability in vector-host contact rates as well as host community composition can influence the likelihood of WNv transmission in avian communities.}, }
@article {pmid30963864, year = {2019}, author = {Jelbert, SA and Miller, R and Schiestl, M and Boeckle, M and Cheke, LG and Gray, RD and Taylor, AH and Clayton, NS}, title = {New Caledonian crows infer the weight of objects from observing their movements in a breeze.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {286}, number = {1894}, pages = {20182332}, pmid = {30963864}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; *Discrimination Learning ; Female ; Male ; }, abstract = {Humans use a variety of cues to infer an object's weight, including how easily objects can be moved. For example, if we observe an object being blown down the street by the wind, we can infer that it is light. Here, we tested whether New Caledonian crows make this type of inference. After training that only one type of object (either light or heavy) was rewarded when dropped into a food dispenser, birds observed pairs of novel objects (one light and one heavy) suspended from strings in front of an electric fan. The fan was either on-creating a breeze which buffeted the light, but not the heavy, object-or off, leaving both objects stationary. In subsequent test trials, birds could drop one, or both, of the novel objects into the food dispenser. Despite having no opportunity to handle these objects prior to testing, birds touched the correct object (light or heavy) first in 73% of experimental trials, and were at chance in control trials. Our results suggest that birds used pre-existing knowledge about the behaviour exhibited by differently weighted objects in the wind to infer their weight, using this information to guide their choices.}, }
@article {pmid30958132, year = {2019}, author = {Klump, BC and Cantat, M and Rutz, C}, title = {Raw-material selectivity in hook-tool-crafting New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {15}, number = {2}, pages = {20180836}, pmid = {30958132}, issn = {1744-957X}, support = {BB/G023913/2//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Feeding Behavior ; Plant Leaves ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Animals that manufacture foraging tools face the challenge of identifying suitable raw materials among a multitude of options. New Caledonian crows exhibit strong population-specific material preferences for the manufacture of hooked stick tools, but it is unknown how they identify their favourite plants. We investigated experimentally whether crows pay attention to the stems of plants (from which the tools are made) and/or their leaves (which are usually discarded during manufacture but may enable rapid and reliable species identification at a distance). Subjects were highly selective in choice trials with multiple plant species. Two additional treatments with experimental leaf-stem combinations revealed that birds can identify their preferred plant species by its stems alone, and possibly also its leaves. These findings encourage future experiments that investigate whether New Caledonian crows attend to features of the stem that are required for the production of efficient hooked stick tools. Our study provides one of the most detailed assessments to date of how non-human animals identify raw materials for tool manufacture.}, }
@article {pmid30956237, year = {2019}, author = {Muigai, W}, title = {"Something Wasn't Clean": Black Midwifery, Birth, and Postwar Medical Education in All My Babies.}, journal = {Bulletin of the history of medicine}, volume = {93}, number = {1}, pages = {82-113}, doi = {10.1353/bhm.2019.0003}, pmid = {30956237}, issn = {1086-3176}, mesh = {Black or African American ; Education, Medical/*history ; Georgia ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Medicine in the Arts/*history ; Midwifery/*history ; Motion Pictures/*history ; Parturition ; United States ; }, abstract = {Set in rural Georgia, the 1953 health film All My Babies: A Midwife's Own Story was a government-sponsored project intended as a training tool for midwives. The film was unique to feature a black midwife and a live birth at a time when southern health officials blamed midwives for the region's infant mortality rates. Produced by the young filmmaker George Stoney, All My Babies was praised for its educational value and, as this article demonstrates, was a popular feature in postwar medical education. Yet as it drew acclaim, the film also sparked debates within and beyond medical settings concerning its portrayal of midwifery, birth, and health care for African Americans. In tracing the controversies over the film's messages and representations, this article argues that All My Babies exemplified the power and limits of health films to address the complexities of race and health during an era of Jim Crow segregation.}, }
@article {pmid30954992, year = {2019}, author = {Mandlik, R and Ekbote, V and Chiplonkar, S and Khadilkar, V and Khadilkar, A}, title = {Parental Education, Children's Nutritional Status and Non-verbal Intelligence in Rural School-children.}, journal = {Indian pediatrics}, volume = {56}, number = {3}, pages = {205-208}, pmid = {30954992}, issn = {0974-7559}, mesh = {Child ; Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena/*physiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Diet/statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Nutritional Status/*physiology ; Rural Population/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To assess non-verbal intelligence and its relationship with nutritional status, nutrient intakes and parents' education in school-children.<br><br>METHODS: A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted in children between 6-11 years, without any known chronic disorder or intellectual disability. Data were collected regarding parents' education, anthropometry and dietary intakes. Non-verbal intelligence was assessed by Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM).<br><br>RESULTS: In 323 enrolled children (52.9% boys), a significant positive association was observed between RCPM scores and parents' education (father's rs=0.14, mother's rs=0.22), height Z-scores (rs=0.14) and dietary intakes of zinc (rs=0.14), iron (rs=0.12) and folate (rs=0.14).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Height in normal range, higher zinc, iron and folate intakes, and parental higher educational levels were associated with higher non-verbal intelligence scores.}, }
@article {pmid30944451, year = {2019}, author = {Bocanegra, BR and Poletiek, FH and Ftitache, B and Clark, A}, title = {Intelligent problem-solvers externalize cognitive operations.}, journal = {Nature human behaviour}, volume = {3}, number = {2}, pages = {136-142}, doi = {10.1038/s41562-018-0509-y}, pmid = {30944451}, issn = {2397-3374}, mesh = {Academic Success ; Adult ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Students ; Universities ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Humans are nature's most intelligent and prolific users of external props and aids (such as written texts, slide-rules and software packages). Here we introduce a method for investigating how people make active use of their task environment during problem-solving and apply this approach to the non-verbal Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices test for fluid intelligence. We designed a click-and-drag version of the Raven test in which participants could create different external spatial configurations while solving the puzzles. In our first study, we observed that the click-and-drag test was better than the conventional static test at predicting academic achievement of university students. This pattern of results was partially replicated in a novel sample. Importantly, environment-altering actions were clustered in between periods of apparent inactivity, suggesting that problem-solvers were delicately balancing the execution of internal and external cognitive operations. We observed a systematic relationship between this critical phasic temporal signature and improved test performance. Our approach is widely applicable and offers an opportunity to quantitatively assess a powerful, although understudied, feature of human intelligence: our ability to use external objects, props and aids to solve complex problems.}, }
@article {pmid30935605, year = {2019}, author = {Mostafiz, WR and Carley, DW and Viana, MGC and Ma, S and Dalci, O and Darendeliler, MA and Evans, CA and Kusnoto, B and Masoud, A and Galang-Boquiren, MTS}, title = {Changes in sleep and airway variables in patients with obstructive sleep apnea after mandibular advancement splint treatment.}, journal = {American journal of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics : official publication of the American Association of Orthodontists, its constituent societies, and the American Board of Orthodontics}, volume = {155}, number = {4}, pages = {498-508}, doi = {10.1016/j.ajodo.2018.05.022}, pmid = {30935605}, issn = {1097-6752}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Airway Obstruction/diagnostic imaging/surgery ; Cone-Beam Computed Tomography ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Mandibular Advancement ; Middle Aged ; *Occlusal Splints ; Polysomnography ; Respiratory System/physiopathology ; Retrospective Studies ; *Sleep/physiology ; Sleep Apnea, Obstructive/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology/*surgery ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is an extensive public health problem that imposes considerable morbidity. Mandibular advancement splint (MAS) therapy is a well tolerated treatment, but success rates are difficult to predict. Our objective was to investigate the relationship of oropharyngeal airway dimensions, sleep characteristics, patient biometrics, and treatment response within an OSA patient sample.<br><br>METHODS: Records of 33 adults were assessed retrospectively with the use of Dolphin 3D and Image J to measure the airway on pretreatment supine cone-beam computed tomography images and derived lateral cephalograms. The patients used Somnodent (Somnomed; Crows Nest, Australia) MAS appliances, which were titrated over 6-8&#xa0;weeks. Appliance titration measurements and pre- and posttreatment polysomnograms were assessed. Respiratory disturbance index (RDI), absolute and percentage changes in RDI, non-rapid eye movement (NREM) RDI, rapid eye movement (REM) RDI, supine and nonsupine NREM and REM RDI, and minimal blood-oxygen saturation variables were evaluated. The associations of measurements from 2D and 3D minimal anterior-posterior linear distance and 3D airway variables with MAS treatment response were estimated.<br><br>RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Combined effects of baseline total airway volume, body mass index, neck circumference, location of minimal cross sectional area, and OSA severity were associated with treatment response. Patients with higher initial OSA and more superiorly located airway constriction showed enhanced treatment response to MAS therapy. Airway constriction due to maxillofacial disproportions rather than soft tissue obstruction also showed better treatment response. No significant relationships were found in lateral cephalogram measurements.}, }
@article {pmid30934749, year = {2019}, author = {Hamner, S and Brown, BL and Hasan, NA and Franklin, MJ and Doyle, J and Eggers, MJ and Colwell, RR and Ford, TE}, title = {Metagenomic Profiling of Microbial Pathogens in the Little Bighorn River, Montana.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {16}, number = {7}, pages = {}, pmid = {30934749}, issn = {1660-4601}, mesh = {Enterobacteriaceae/*genetics ; Escherichia coli/genetics ; Humans ; Metagenomics/*methods ; Montana/epidemiology ; Rivers/*microbiology ; Serogroup ; Virulence ; Water Quality ; }, abstract = {The Little Bighorn River is the primary source of water for water treatment plants serving the local Crow Agency population, and has special significance in the spiritual and ceremonial life of the Crow tribe. Unfortunately, the watershed suffers from impaired water quality, with high counts of fecal coliform bacteria routinely measured during run-off events. A metagenomic analysis was carried out to identify potential pathogens in the river water. The Oxford Nanopore MinION platform was used to sequence DNA in near real time to identify both uncultured and a coliform-enriched culture of microbes collected from a popular summer swimming area of the Little Bighorn River. Sequences were analyzed using CosmosID bioinformatics and, in agreement with previous studies, enterohemorrhagic and enteropathogenic Escherichia coli and other E. coli pathotypes were identified. Noteworthy was detection and identification of enteroaggregative E. coli O104:H4 and Vibrio cholerae serotype O1 El Tor, however, cholera toxin genes were not identified. Other pathogenic microbes, as well as virulence genes and antimicrobial resistance markers, were also identified and characterized by metagenomic analyses. It is concluded that metagenomics provides a useful and potentially routine tool for identifying in an in-depth manner microbial contamination of waterways and, thereby, protecting public health.}, }
@article {pmid30930524, year = {2019}, author = {Boucherie, PH and Loretto, MC and Massen, JJM and Bugnyar, T}, title = {What constitutes "social complexity" and "social intelligence" in birds? Lessons from ravens.}, journal = {Behavioral ecology and sociobiology}, volume = {73}, number = {1}, pages = {12}, pmid = {30930524}, issn = {0340-5443}, support = {P 29705/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {In the last decades, the assumption that complex social life is cognitively challenging, and thus can drive mental evolution, has received much support from empirical studies in nonhuman primates. While extending the scope to other mammals and birds, different views have been adopted on what constitutes social complexity and which specific cognitive skills are selected for. Notably, many avian species form "open" groups as non-breeders (i.e., seasonally and before sexual maturity) that have been largely ignored as potential sources of social complexity. Reviewing 30 years of research on ravens, we illustrate the socio-ecological conditions faced by these birds as non-breeders and discuss how these relate to their socio-cognitive skills. We argue that the non-breeding period is key to understand raven social life and, to a larger extent, avian social life in general. We furthermore emphasize how the combination of the large-scale perspective (defining social system components: e.g., social organization, mating system) and the individual-scale perspective on social systems allows to better capture the complete set of social challenges experienced by individuals throughout their life, ultimately resulting on a more comprehensive understanding of species' social complexity.}, }
@article {pmid33942596, year = {2019}, author = {De Los Santos, R and Monroe, C and Worl, R and Worl, R and Schroeder, KB and Kemp, BM}, title = {Genetic Diversity and Relationships of Tlingit Moieties.}, journal = {Human biology}, volume = {91}, number = {2}, pages = {95-116}, doi = {10.13110/humanbiology.91.2.03}, pmid = {33942596}, issn = {1534-6617}, abstract = {The Tlingit from Southeast Alaska belong to the Northwest Coast cultural tradition, which is defined by regionally shared sociocultural practices. A distinctive feature of Tlingit social organization is the matrilineal exogamous marriage system among clans from two opposite moieties: the Raven/Crow and Eagle/Wolf. Clan and moiety membership are determined by matrilineal descent, and previous genetic studies of Northwest Coast populations have shown a relationship between clan membership and genetic variation of matrilines and patrilines. To further understand this association, in this study mitochondrial DNA sequences from the Tlingit (n = 154) were examined. By comparing mitochondrial DNA with moiety membership information, the authors explore the impact of marriage traditions among the Tlingit with their observable genetic variation. At the genetic level, the results support cultural persistence of Tlingit maternal moiety identity despite the negative impacts of European colonization. This study additionally illustrates the relevance of data derived from Tlingit oral traditions to test hypotheses about population history on the Northwest Coast.}, }
@article {pmid30918750, year = {2019}, author = {Xu, C and Lu, Y and Wang, B and Zhou, C}, title = {Long-term high physical activity modulates event-related potential indices of inhibitory control in postmenopausal women.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {e6523}, pmid = {30918750}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Inhibition processing is sensitive to aging, and an age-related decline in inhibition processing has been associated with an accelerated rate of progression to Alzheimer disease. Elderly women are two to three times more likely than age-matched men to have Alzheimer disease. Therefore, this study examined whether long-term high physical activity affects inhibitory processing, specifically among postmenopausal women.<br><br>METHODS: In total, 251 candidates were screened using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices to assess their cognitive abilities and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (Chinese version) to assess their physical activity levels. The participants were then grouped into either a long-term high physical activity group (defined as more than 3 days of high intensity activity per week and gross metabolic equivalent minutes (MET-minutes) higher than 1,500 MET-minutes/week or a gross MET higher than 3,000 MET-minutes/week obtained through walking or other moderate or high intensity activity) or a control group and matched for demographic and health characteristics as well as cognitive scores. Event-related potentials (ERPs) were recorded as participants performed a Go/No-go task to assess inhibition processing.<br><br>RESULTS: The long-term high physical activity group (n = 30) had faster Go reaction times than the control group (n = 30), whereas no significant difference between the two groups was found in their performance accuracy on the No-go task. For the ERP results, the latency of N2 component was significantly shorter in the long-term high physical activity group than that in the control group.<br><br>DISCUSSION: The results of this study suggested that long-term high physical activity may increase the efficiency of the inhibitory control system by increasing the activity of response monitoring processes.}, }
@article {pmid30916391, year = {2019}, author = {Maron, JL and Agrawal, AA and Schemske, DW}, title = {Plant-herbivore coevolution and plant speciation.}, journal = {Ecology}, volume = {100}, number = {7}, pages = {e02704}, doi = {10.1002/ecy.2704}, pmid = {30916391}, issn = {1939-9170}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; *Herbivory ; Insecta ; Phenotype ; Phylogeny ; *Plants ; }, abstract = {More than five decades ago, Ehrlich and Raven proposed a revolutionary idea-that the evolution of novel plant defense could spur adaptive radiation in plants. Despite motivating much work on plant-herbivore coevolution and defense theory, Ehrlich and Raven never proposed a mechanism for their "escape and radiate" model. Recent intriguing mechanisms proposed by Marquis et al. include sympatric divergence, pleiotropic effects of plant defense traits on reproductive isolation, and strong postzygotic isolation, but these may not be general features of herbivore-mediated speciation. An alternate view is that herbivores may impose strong divergent selection on defenses in allopatric plant populations, with plant-herbivore coevolution driving local adaptation resulting in plant speciation. Building on these ideas, we propose three scenarios that consider the role of herbivores in plant speciation. These include (1) vicariance, subsequent coevolution within populations and adaptive divergence between geographically isolated populations, (2) colonization of a new habitat lacking effective herbivores followed by loss of defense and then re-evolution and coevolution of defense in response to novel herbivores, and (3) evolution of a new defense followed by range expansion, vicariance, and coevolution. We discuss the general role of coevolution in plant speciation and consider outstanding issues related to understanding: (1) the mechanisms behind cospeciation of plants and insects, (2) geographic variation in defense phenotypes, (3) how defensive traits and geography map on plant phylogenies, and (4) the role of herbivores in driving character displacement in defense phenotypes of related species in sympatry.}, }
@article {pmid30913135, year = {2019}, author = {Matsui, H and Izawa, EI}, title = {Control of bill-grasping aperture with varying food size in crows.}, journal = {Neuroreport}, volume = {30}, number = {7}, pages = {522-525}, doi = {10.1097/WNR.0000000000001240}, pmid = {30913135}, issn = {1473-558X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Beak ; Crows/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Reaction Time ; }, abstract = {Grasping movement in primates is known to be a visually guided behavior and the aperture of hand opening is adjusted to the target size on the basis of visual information. The analogous behavior can be found in birds, called 'pecking', consisting of head-reaching and bill-grasping. Bill-grasping has been investigated mainly in pigeons and an aperture adjustment as seen in primates has been reported. This study focused on kinematics of pecking in crows, known to possess dexterous visuomotor skills, to examine whether crows adjust the grasping aperture to food diameter with a kinematic mechanism similar to that in pigeons. The pecking at a small piece of food was video recorded to analyze the grasping aperture. The results showed that the grasping aperture was proportional to food diameter. Kinematic analysis showed that the aperture adjustment was mediated by grasping velocity and grasping duration, which is consistent with the findings of previous research on pecking in pigeons. However, the relative contribution of grasping velocity was much higher than that of grasping duration. Our findings suggest the different sensorimotor mechanisms to control bill-grasping between the avian species with different foraging ecology.}, }
@article {pmid30911146, year = {2019}, author = {Knief, U and Bossu, CM and Saino, N and Hansson, B and Poelstra, J and Vijay, N and Weissensteiner, M and Wolf, JBW}, title = {Epistatic mutations under divergent selection govern phenotypic variation in the crow hybrid zone.}, journal = {Nature ecology &amp; evolution}, volume = {3}, number = {4}, pages = {570-576}, pmid = {30911146}, issn = {2397-334X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Variation, Population ; Crows/*genetics ; Epistasis, Genetic ; Gene Flow ; *Genetic Variation ; Hybridization, Genetic ; Mutation ; Phenotype ; }, abstract = {The evolution of genetic barriers opposing interspecific gene flow is key to the origin of new species. Drawing from information on over 400 admixed genomes sourced from replicate transects across the European hybrid zone between all-black carrion crows and grey-coated hooded crows, we decipher the interplay between phenotypic divergence and selection at the molecular level. Over 68% of plumage variation was explained by epistasis between the gene NDP and a ~2.8-megabase region on chromosome 18 with suppressed recombination. Both pigmentation loci showed evidence for divergent selection resisting introgression. This study reveals how few, large-effect loci can govern prezygotic isolation and shield phenotypic divergence from gene flow.}, }
@article {pmid30911140, year = {2019}, author = {Dobson, AE and Schmidt, DJ and Hughes, JM}, title = {Heritability of plumage colour morph variation in a wild population of promiscuous, long-lived Australian magpies.}, journal = {Heredity}, volume = {123}, number = {3}, pages = {349-358}, pmid = {30911140}, issn = {1365-2540}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Color ; DNA/genetics ; Feathers/anatomy &amp; histology/*metabolism ; Female ; Hybridization, Genetic ; *Inheritance Patterns ; Male ; Passeriformes/anatomy &amp; histology/*genetics ; Phenotype ; Pigmentation/*genetics ; *Quantitative Trait, Heritable ; Reproduction/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Colour polymorphisms have evolutionary significance for the generation and maintenance of species diversity. Demonstrating heritability of polymorphic traits can be challenging for wild populations of long-lived species because accurate information is required on trait expression and familial relationships. The Australian magpie Cracticus tibicen has a continent-wide distribution featuring several distinct plumage morphs, differing primarily in colour of back feathers. Black or white-backed morphs occur in eastern Australia, with intermediate morphs common in a narrow hybrid zone where the two morphs meet. This study investigated heritability of back colour phenotypes in a hybrid zone population (Seymour, Victoria) based on long-term observational data and DNA samples collected over an 18 year period (1993-2010). High extra-pair paternity (~ 36% offspring), necessitated verification of parent-offspring relationships by parentage analysis. A total of 538 birds (221 parents and 317 offspring) from 36 territories were analysed. Back colour was a continuous trait scored on a five-morph scale in the field (0-4). High and consistent estimates of back colour heritability (h[2]) were obtained via weighted mid-parent regression (h[2] = 0.94) and by animal models (h[2] = 0.92, C.I. 0.80-0.99). Single-parent heritability estimates indicated neither maternal nor paternal non-genetic effects (e.g., parent body condition) played a large role in determining offspring back colour, and environmental effects of territory group and cohort contributed little to trait heritability. Distinctive back colouration of the Australian magpie behaves as a quantitative trait that is likely polygenic, although mechanisms responsible for maintaining these geographically structured morphs and the hybrid zone where they meet are unknown.}, }
@article {pmid30909351, year = {2019}, author = {Barone, F and Bashey, S and Woodin Jr., FW}, title = {Clinical Evidence of Dermal and Epidermal Restructuring from a Biologically Active Growth Factor Serum for Skin Rejuvenation.}, journal = {Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD}, volume = {18}, number = {3}, pages = {290-295}, pmid = {30909351}, issn = {1545-9616}, mesh = {Administration, Cutaneous ; Adult ; Aged ; Cosmeceuticals/*administration &amp; dosage ; Dermis/diagnostic imaging/drug effects ; Epidermis/diagnostic imaging/drug effects ; Extracellular Matrix/drug effects ; Face ; Humans ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/*administration &amp; dosage ; Middle Aged ; *Rejuvenation ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {Background: Topical skin care products use various technologies to promote skin repair. Growth factors of human, animal, and plant-derived origins have clinically demonstrated the ability to repair skin by promoting collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) production to reconstruct and reinforce skin’s extracellular matrix (ECM). Human skin cells respond to instructions from highly specialized proteins or hormones referred to as growth factors. These growth factors initiate cellular communication that instigates cellular replication, production, or proliferation. The production of elastin and collagen dermal connective fibers slows, and, with age, the regenerative rates of GAGs become delayed. These biological issues can be exacerbated by extrinsic factors such as sun exposure, pollutants, and various other factors. Growth factor-based products have become important topical treatment modalities for addressing signs of skin aging such as fine lines, deep wrinkles, dryness, laxity, and textural irregularities. Objective: The aim of a 12-week clinical trial of a growth factor composition was to assess its effectiveness at restoring skin health through dermal and epidermal restructuring of aged skin. Results: Data from expert grading, and from corneometer and cutometer evaluations, as well as 2D and 3D image analysis, reflected significant improvements in facial skin appearance, firmness, elasticity, and hydration. Elements that improved most dramatically in investigators’ assessments included radiance, firmness, tactile elasticity, textural smoothness, overall appearance, and crow’s feet. Ultrasound imaging showed continual increases in dermal and epidermal restructuring throughout the study duration. Subject assessments reflected positive product tolerability and positive perception across a broad range of efficacy attributes through 12 weeks of usage. Conclusion: The results verified the ability of a multi-modal plant and enzymatically derived growth factor-based product to achieve skin rejuvenation improvements by stimulating dermal ECM and fibrous tissue regeneration to reduce fine lines and coarse wrinkles, and improve skin firmness and elasticity, while restoring skin to a properly hydrated state. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019;18(3):290-295.}, }
@article {pmid30906673, year = {2018}, author = {Milakovich, J and Simonds, VW and Held, S and Picket, V and LaVeaux, D and Cummins, J and Martin, C and Kelting-Gibson, L}, title = {Children as Agents of Change: Parent Perceptions of Child-driven Environmental Health Communication in the Crow Community.}, journal = {Journal of health disparities research and practice}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {115-127}, pmid = {30906673}, issn = {2166-5222}, support = {P20 GM103474/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; P20 GM104417/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, }
@article {pmid30905182, year = {2020}, author = {Wu, T and Shen, H and Sheng, Y and Zhao, F and Guo, N and Liao, L and Li, L and Li, Y and Dong, X}, title = {Use of cognitive correction training improves learning for children with mathematics learning disability.}, journal = {Applied neuropsychology. Child}, volume = {9}, number = {2}, pages = {172-178}, doi = {10.1080/21622965.2018.1552866}, pmid = {30905182}, issn = {2162-2973}, mesh = {Child ; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/*methods ; Cognitive Remediation/*methods ; *Executive Function ; Female ; Humans ; *Inhibition, Psychological ; Learning Disabilities/physiopathology/*rehabilitation ; Male ; Mathematics/*education ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Prospective Studies ; Therapy, Computer-Assisted/methods ; }, abstract = {Children with normal intelligence may experience varying degrees of mathematics learning disabilities (MD). This study aims to conduct training to improve the brain's cognitive ability for mathematics learning by focusing on two important mathematical cognitive abilities. This was a prospective study of 70 children in grades 2-5 from two primary schools in Changzhou and with MD enrolled from June 2015 to February 2017. The children were randomized 1:1 to the training and control groups. A training cycle included 40 sessions (5/weeks) (30 min each session). The efficacy of learning was assessed by assessing number learning and graph reasoning, and by using the Raven standard reasoning test score. In the training group, backward number memory (from 6.1 ± 1.8 to 6.7 ± 1.3, P = 0.02), number sequential connection (from 54.4 ± 14.5 to 47.1 ± 12.1, P < 0.01), and rapid graph judgment (from 531.9 ± 76.3 to 557.8 ± 85.7, P = 0.04) were improved by training, while there was no effect on forward number memory (P = 0.13). There were significant differences in total score and scores of b, c, and e series before and after training (all P < 0.05). The children in the control group had no improvement after 8 weeks. There was a correlation between the ability of rapid graphic judgment before and after training and the score of the Raven E series (r = 0.384, P = 0.024), and between the score of the Raven C series and the score of the Raven D series (r = 0.468, P = 0.013). Cognitive correction training improved the sensitivity to numbers and mathematics learning in children with MD.}, }
@article {pmid30893169, year = {2019}, author = {Cheon, HI and Jung, N and Won, CH and Kim, BJ and Lee, YW}, title = {Efficacy and Safety of Prabotulinumtoxin A and Onabotulinumtoxin A for Crow's Feet: A Phase 3, Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Split-Face Study.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {45}, number = {12}, pages = {1610-1619}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000001920}, pmid = {30893169}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Cosmetic Techniques/*adverse effects ; Double-Blind Method ; Eye ; Female ; Humans ; Injection Site Reaction/diagnosis/etiology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Off-Label Use ; Patient Satisfaction ; Remission, Spontaneous ; Severity of Illness Index ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Prabotulinumtoxin A has been shown to have efficacy for the treatment of upper-limb spasticity and improvement of moderate to severe glabellar lines. However, the efficacy and safety of prabotulinumtoxin A for crow's feet have not been evaluated.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: This study compared the efficacy and safety of prabotulinumtoxin A and onabotulinumtoxin A in the treatment of crow's feet.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, active-controlled, split-face study was conducted in subjects with bilateral symmetric, moderate to severe crow's feet at maximum smile. The investigators assessed the severity of crow's feet by using the facial wrinkle scale, and the subjects reported the improvement in severity, their subjective satisfaction, and perceived age. The primary efficacy outcome was the proportion of subjects with Grade 0 or 1 severity of crow's feet at maximum smile at Week 4 as assessed by the investigators.<br><br>RESULTS: In the primary efficacy outcome assessment, there was no significant difference between the 2 groups (prabotulinumtoxin A, 65.02%; onabotulinumtoxin A, 62.56%; p = .0956). All secondary efficacy outcomes were also achieved. Adverse events related to injection were mild and recovered spontaneously.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Prabotulinumtoxin A and onabotulinumtoxin A have comparable efficacy and safety in the treatment of crow's feet.}, }
@article {pmid30891367, year = {2019}, author = {Policht, R and Hart, V and Goncharov, D and Surový, P and Hanzal, V and Červený, J and Burda, H}, title = {Vocal recognition of a nest-predator in black grouse.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {e6533}, pmid = {30891367}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {Corvids count among the important predators of bird nests. They are vocal animals and one can expect that birds threatened by their predation, such as black grouse, are sensitive to and recognize their calls. Within the framework of field studies, we noticed that adult black grouse were alerted by raven calls during periods outside the breeding season. Since black grouse are large, extremely precocial birds, this reaction can hardly be explained by sensitization specifically to the threat of nest predation by ravens. This surprising observation prompted us to study the phenomenon more systematically. According to our knowledge, the response of birds to corvid vocalization has been studied in altricial birds only. We tested whether the black grouse distinguishes and responds specifically to playback calls of the common raven. Black grouse recognized raven calls and were alerted, displaying typical neck stretching, followed by head scanning, and eventual escape. Surprisingly, males tended to react faster and exhibited a longer duration of vigilance behavior compared to females. Although raven calls are recognized by adult black grouse out of the nesting period, they are not directly endangered by the raven. We speculate that the responsiveness of adult grouse to raven calls might be explained as a learned response in juveniles from nesting hens that is then preserved in adults, or by a known association between the raven and the red fox. In that case, calls of the raven would be rather interpreted as a warning signal of probable proximity of the red fox.}, }
@article {pmid30889388, year = {2019}, author = {Bugnyar, T}, title = {Tool Use: New Caledonian Crows Engage in Mental Planning.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {29}, number = {6}, pages = {R200-R202}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2019.01.059}, pmid = {30889388}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Food ; Humans ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian crows are able to flexibly use different tools in a sequence to retrieve food, whereby each step is out-of-sight of the others. Mental planning is thus not a human-specific trait.}, }
@article {pmid30877719, year = {2019}, author = {Triantafyllidou, E and Moraitou, D and Kaklamanaki, E and Georgiadou, T and Athanasaki, M and Malliopoulou, E and Schina, C and Hamoli, M and Moschou, S and Petropoulou, Z and Mpoulakis, P and Douli, E and Pagoni, K and Nikolaidou, S and Nouli, CD and Masoura, E and Tsolaki, M and Papantoniou, G}, title = {Retrogenetic models of working memory: Preliminary multi-group analysis.}, journal = {Hellenic journal of nuclear medicine}, volume = {22 Suppl}, number = {}, pages = {4-16}, pmid = {30877719}, issn = {1790-5427}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Middle Aged ; *Models, Neurological ; }, abstract = {AIM: The aim of the present study was the qualitative comparison of working memory capacity of young children and older adults through the investigation of the latent structure stability or change in Working Memory capacity (WM) in childhood and aging, using Multiple Group Confirmatory Factor Analysis (MGCFA).<br><br>METHOD: The sample consisted of 62 kindergarten and 56 elementary school students (age range: 4-8 years) and 52 young-old adults and 54 old-old adults (age range: 60-94 years). Adults were asked to complete the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Geriatric Depression Scale-15 (GDS-15) as screening tests. The children were examined via the Raven Colored Progressive Matrix (CMP) test for the same reason. WM was examined via four measures of Working Memory Test Battery for Children (WMTB-C).<br><br>RESULTS: MGCFA applied to the data of the kindergarten students' subsample, elementary school students' subsample, young-old and old-old adults' subsamples as well as of older adults with low (0-9 years of education) educational level. Initially, through MGCFA, four "models" were confirmed, one for each age-related subsample, and they were different from each other. However, when the same method was applied exclusively to young-old and old-old adults with low educational level, the models that emerged were similar to the kindergarten students' model.<br><br>CONCLUSION: When we "keep" the educational level equal (low) for all, the hypothesis of retrogenesis is confirmed. Cognitive reserve appears to be protective, keeping differentiated WM's components in every age group other than that of kindergarten students. The results support the "retrogenetic" hypothesis, mainly due to the finding of a delay in WM components' development in the group of kindergarten students, and their dedifferentiation in the low-educated young-old and old-old adults.}, }
@article {pmid30874339, year = {2019}, author = {Maidhof, R and Knapp, E and Liebel, F and Fair, M and Rubinson, EH}, title = {Technical approaches to select high-performance instant skin smoothing formulations: Correlation of in vitro and in vivo assessment methods.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {25}, number = {5}, pages = {606-611}, doi = {10.1111/srt.12691}, pmid = {30874339}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Administration, Cutaneous ; Cosmetics/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; Dermatologic Agents/*pharmacology ; Face ; Humans ; In Vitro Techniques ; Serum Albumin, Bovine/pharmacology ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Skin Care ; Stress, Physiological/physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Contractile films that smooth the surface of skin upon drying are popular among consumers due to their "instant" effect and perceivable smoothing benefits. The objective of our study was to correlate an in vitro measurement of contractile force with in vivo smoothing performance, thereby enabling rapid screening of film-forming technologies for impactful cosmetic results.<br><br>METHODS: We introduce and characterize an in vitro method to measure drying stress of film-containing formulations. This method is used to measure the drying stresses of seven different cosmetic film formulations. We then evaluate these formulas in a blinded clinical study, measuring their effect on under-eye and Crow's Feet area smoothing through bioinstrumentation (3D PRIMOS imaging) and blinded expert grading of images.<br><br>RESULTS: The in vitro drying stress measurement was found to be repeatable and sensitive enough to detect differences between formulations with typical amounts of film-forming agents. Significant correlation was found between the in vitro drying stress measurements and under-eye smoothing measured by 3D imaging (R[2] &#xa0;=&#xa0;0.71). Expert grading confirmed that film formulas deliver perceivable smoothing in the under-eye and Crow's Feet regions 15&#xa0;minutes after application.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The in vitro method described here can be used to predict the efficacy of formulations that deliver smoothing benefits to consumers. For consumer use, the esthetic properties of a formula should be balanced with film performance, guided by this model which predicts skin smoothing efficacy.}, }
@article {pmid30867014, year = {2019}, author = {Gutiérrez-López, R and Martínez-de la Puente, J and Gangoso, L and Soriguer, R and Figuerola, J}, title = {Effects of host sex, body mass and infection by avian Plasmodium on the biting rate of two mosquito species with different feeding preferences.}, journal = {Parasites &amp; vectors}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {87}, pmid = {30867014}, issn = {1756-3305}, support = {CGL2012-30759//Ministerio de Econom&#xed;a, Industria y Competitividad, Gobierno de Espa&#xf1;a (ES)/ ; CGL2015-65055-P//Ministerio de Econom&#xed;a, Industria y Competitividad, Gobierno de Espa&#xf1;a/ ; 2017 Leonardo Grant for Researchers//Fundaci&#xf3;n BBVA/ ; Cultural Creators//Fundaci&#xf3;n BBVA/ ; 747729 "EcoEvoClim"//H2020 Marie Sk&#x142;odowska-Curie Actions/ ; P11-RNM-7038//Agencia de Innovaci&#xf3;n y Desarrollo de Andaluc&#xed;a/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Bird Diseases/parasitology/*transmission ; Crows ; Culex/*parasitology ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Host Specificity ; Host-Parasite Interactions ; Insect Bites and Stings/veterinary ; Malaria/parasitology/transmission/*veterinary ; Male ; Mosquito Vectors/*parasitology ; Ochlerotatus/*parasitology ; Phenotype ; Plasmodium/*physiology ; Sex Factors ; Sparrows ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The transmission of mosquito-borne pathogens is strongly influenced by the contact rates between mosquitoes and susceptible hosts. The biting rates of mosquitoes depend on different factors including the mosquito species and host-related traits (i.e. odour, heat and behaviour). However, host characteristics potentially affecting intraspecific differences in the biting rate of mosquitoes are poorly known. Here, we assessed the impact of three host-related traits on the biting rate of two mosquito species with different feeding preferences: the ornithophilic Culex pipiens and the mammophilic Ochlerotatus (Aedes) caspius. Seventy-two jackdaws Corvus monedula and 101 house sparrows Passer domesticus were individually exposed to mosquito bites to test the effect of host sex, body mass and infection status by the avian malaria parasite Plasmodium on biting rates.<br><br>RESULTS: Ochlerotatus caspius showed significantly higher biting rates than Cx. pipiens on jackdaws, but non-significant differences were found on house sparrows. In addition, more Oc. caspius fed on female than on male jackdaws, while no differences were found for Cx. pipiens. The biting rate of mosquitoes on house sparrows increased through the year. The bird infection status and body mass of both avian hosts were not related to the biting rate of both mosquito species.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Host sex was the only host-related trait potentially affecting the biting rate of mosquitoes, although its effect may differ between mosquito and host species.}, }
@article {pmid30859038, year = {2019}, author = {Wu, Y and Wang, G and Li, C and Mao, C and Lei, X and Lee, E}, title = {Safety and Efficacy of OnabotulinumtoxinA for Treatment of Crow's Feet Lines in Chinese Subjects.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {e2079}, pmid = {30859038}, issn = {2169-7574}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of onabotulinumtoxinA for the treatment of crow's feet lines (CFL) in Chinese subjects.<br><br>METHODS: This 5-month, double-blind, randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled phase 3 study was conducted in China. Subjects with moderate-to-severe CFL at maximum smile received a single treatment of onabotulinumtoxinA 24 U (total; n = 316) or placebo (n = 101) on day 1. The primary efficacy measure was the proportion of investigator-assessed responders (achieved CFL severity of none or mild at maximum smile using the Facial Wrinkle Scale with Asian Photonumeric Guide at day 30). Additional endpoints included other response definitions (achieving at least 1-grade improvement at maximum smile and at rest using the Facial Wrinkle Scale with Asian Photonumeric Guide at day 30), duration of effect, subject-reported outcomes, and safety.<br><br>RESULTS: All efficacy endpoints were met. At day 30, the proportion of subjects achieving none or mild severity at maximum smile was significantly greater (P < 0.001) in the onabotulinumtoxinA group (63.9%) versus the placebo group (5.0%). The proportion of subjects assessing the change in CFL appearance as much improved/very much improved was also significantly greater with onabotulinumtoxinA than placebo (P < 0.001). Subjects' self-assessed outcomes were similar to investigator-assessed results. Median duration of effect with onabotulinumtoxinA was &#x2265;5 months using all responder definitions. A low occurrence of treatment-related adverse events was reported, with no new safety findings.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: OnabotulinumtoxinA 24 U was effective and well tolerated for the treatment of CFL in Chinese subjects, with responses maintained over 5 months.}, }
@article {pmid30850691, year = {2019}, author = {Shimmura, T and Tamura, M and Ohashi, S and Sasaki, A and Yamanaka, T and Nakao, N and Ihara, K and Okamura, S and Yoshimura, T}, title = {Cholecystokinin induces crowing in chickens.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {3978}, pmid = {30850691}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Chickens/*metabolism/*physiology ; Cholecystokinin/*metabolism ; Crows/*metabolism/*physiology ; Gene Expression/physiology ; Male ; Neurotransmitter Agents/metabolism ; Receptor, Cholecystokinin B/metabolism ; Sound ; Testosterone/metabolism ; Up-Regulation/physiology ; Vocalization, Animal/physiology ; }, abstract = {Animals that communicate using sound are found throughout the animal kingdom. Interestingly, in contrast to human vocal learning, most animals can produce species-specific patterns of vocalization without learning them from their parents. This phenomenon is called innate vocalization. The underlying molecular basis of both vocal learning in humans and innate vocalization in animals remains unknown. The crowing of a rooster is also innately controlled, and the upstream center is thought to be localized in the nucleus intercollicularis (ICo) of the midbrain. Here, we show that the cholecystokinin B receptor (CCKBR) is a regulatory gene involved in inducing crowing in roosters. Crowing is known to be a testosterone (T)-dependent behavior, and it follows that roosters crow but not hens. Similarly, T-administration induces chicks to crow. By using RNA-sequencing to compare gene expression in the ICo between the two comparison groups that either crow or do not crow, we found that CCKBR expression was upregulated in T-containing groups. The expression of CCKBR and its ligand, cholecystokinin (CCK), a neurotransmitter, was observed in the ICo. We also showed that crowing was induced by intracerebroventricular administration of an agonist specific for CCKBR. Our findings therefore suggest that the CCK system induces innate vocalization in roosters.}, }
@article {pmid30846892, year = {2019}, author = {Uhl, F and Ringler, M and Miller, R and Deventer, SA and Bugnyar, T and Schwab, C}, title = {Counting crows: population structure and group size variation in an urban population of crows.}, journal = {Behavioral ecology : official journal of the International Society for Behavioral Ecology}, volume = {30}, number = {1}, pages = {57-67}, pmid = {30846892}, issn = {1045-2249}, support = {J 3868/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; P 24788/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; P 29705/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Social complexity arises from the formation of social relationships like social bonds and dominance hierarchies. In turn, these aspects may be affected by the degree of fission-fusion dynamics, i.e., changes in group size and composition over time. Whilst fission-fusion dynamics has been studied in mammals, birds have received comparably little attention, despite some species having equally complex social lives. Here, we investigated the influence of environmental factors on aspects of fission-fusion dynamics in a free-ranging population of carrion and hooded crows (Corvus corone ssp.) in the urban zoo of Vienna, Austria over a 1-year period. We investigated 1) the size and 2) spatio-temporal structure of the local flock, and 3) environmental influences on local flock and subgroup size. The local flock size varied considerably over the year, with fewest birds being present during the breeding season. The spatio-temporal structure of the local flock showed 4 distinct presence categories, of which the proportions changed significantly throughout the year. Environmental effects on both local flock and subgroup size were time of day, season, temperature, and weather, with additional pronounced effects of the structure of the surroundings and age class on subgroup size. Our findings show environmental influences on party size at the local flock and subgroup level, as well as indications of structured party composition in respect to the 4 presence categories. These results suggest that environmental factors have significant effects on fission-fusion dynamics in free-ranging crows, thereby influencing social complexity.}, }
@article {pmid30846760, year = {2019}, author = {Kojima, M and Nagano, A}, title = {Assessment of physical activity and cognitive function and their potential correlation in convalescent patients of cerebrovascular disease.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {3782}, pmid = {30846760}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Accelerometry/instrumentation/methods ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cerebrovascular Disorders/*physiopathology/psychology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Energy Metabolism ; Exercise/*physiology/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Sedentary Behavior ; }, abstract = {Physical activity (PA) is known to influence cognitive function. However, the impact of PA on patients with cerebrovascular disease (CVD) has not yet been elucidated. PA and cognitive function have not been measured simultaneously over time, which makes it difficult to evaluate their relationship. The purpose of this study was to investigate the change in the amount of PA recorded by ActiGraph GT3X-BT and six test scores of cognitive function, and the relationship between them in 15 patients with CVD (six women and nine men; 78.0 ± 11.6 years old). Results showed an increase in the amount of PA and scores of cognitive tests, and a significant decrease in the duration of sedentary behavior during the four months (p < 0.05). There were significant correlations between PA Energy Expenditure (PAEE) and Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices test (RCPM) (r = 0.536, p < 0.0001). There were significant correlations between PAEE and Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) (r = 0.271, p = 0.036). There were significant correlations between sedentary behavior and RCPM (r = -0.606, p < 0.0001). There were significant correlations between sedentary behavior and SDMT (r = -0.355, p = 0.005). There were significant correlations between Light PA (LPA) and RCPM (r = 0.603, p < 0.0001). There were significant correlations between LPA and SDMT (r = 0.362, p = 0.005).}, }
@article {pmid30842442, year = {2019}, author = {Jelbert, SA and Hosking, RJ and Taylor, AH and Gray, RD}, title = {Publisher Correction: Mental template matching is a potential cultural transmission mechanism for New Caledonian crow tool manufacturing traditions.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {4151}, doi = {10.1038/s41598-018-37178-2}, pmid = {30842442}, issn = {2045-2322}, abstract = {A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.}, }
@article {pmid30832245, year = {2019}, author = {Cortes-Rodriguez, N and Campana, MG and Berry, L and Faegre, S and Derrickson, SR and Ha, RR and Dikow, RB and Rutz, C and Fleischer, RC}, title = {Population Genomics and Structure of the Critically Endangered Mariana Crow (Corvus kubaryi).}, journal = {Genes}, volume = {10}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {30832245}, issn = {2073-4425}, support = {BB/G023913/2//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) David Phillips Fellowship/International ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; Crows/*classification/genetics ; Endangered Species ; Evolution, Molecular ; Female ; Guam ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; Male ; Metagenomics/*methods ; Phylogeography ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; Whole Genome Sequencing/*methods ; }, abstract = {The Mariana Crow, or Åga (Corvus kubaryi), is a critically endangered species (IUCN -International Union for Conservation of Nature), endemic to the islands of Guam and Rota in the Mariana Archipelago. It is locally extinct on Guam, and numbers have declined dramatically on Rota to a historical low of less than 55 breeding pairs throughout the island in 2013. Because of its extirpation on Guam and population decline on Rota, it is of critical importance to assess the genetic variation among individuals to assist ongoing recovery efforts. We conducted a population genomics analysis comparing the Guam and Rota populations and studied the genetic structure of the Rota population. We used blood samples from five birds from Guam and 78 birds from Rota. We identified 145,552 candidate single nucleotide variants (SNVs) from a genome sequence of an individual from Rota and selected a subset of these to develop an oligonucleotide in-solution capture assay. The Guam and Rota populations were genetically differentiated from each other. Crow populations sampled broadly across their range on Rota showed significant genetic structuring [-] a surprising result given the small size of this island and the good flight capabilities of the species. Knowledge of its genetic structure will help improve management strategies to help with its recovery.}, }
@article {pmid30829771, year = {2020}, author = {Rivkin, AZ and Ogilvie, P and Dayan, S and Yoelin, SG and Weichman, BM and Garcia, JK}, title = {OnabotulinumtoxinA for Simultaneous Treatment of Upper Facial Lines: Subject-Reported Satisfaction and Impact From a Phase 3 Study.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {46}, number = {1}, pages = {50-60}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000001883}, pmid = {30829771}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; *Forehead ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*therapeutic use ; Patient Reported Outcome Measures ; Patient Satisfaction ; *Skin Aging ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Patient-reported outcomes are increasingly recognized as important measures of treatment benefit.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate subject-reported satisfaction and impact outcomes with onabotulinumtoxinA treatment in neurotoxin-naive adults with forehead lines (FHL), glabellar lines (GL), and crow's feet lines (CFL).<br><br>METHODS: This Phase 3 study randomized 787 subjects to onabotulinumtoxinA 64 U (FHL 20 U, GL 20 U, and CFL 24 U), 40 U (FHL 20 U, GL 20 U, and CFL placebo), or placebo in double-blind Period 1. Subjects could receive up to 2 additional 64 U treatments in open-label Period 2. Patient-reported outcomes were assessed using the validated Facial Line Satisfaction Questionnaire (FLSQ) and 11-item Facial Line Outcomes (FLO-11) Questionnaire.<br><br>RESULTS: The proportion of subjects mostly or very satisfied was significantly greater with onabotulinumtoxinA 64 U and 40 U versus placebo (87.9% and 81.4% vs 3.2%; p < .0001). Responder rates on FLSQ Impact Domain, FLO-11 Items 1, 4, 5, and total score were significantly greater with onabotulinumtoxinA versus placebo on Day 30 (p < .0001). Responder rates favoring onabotulinumtoxinA in Period 1 were maintained with repeated onabotulinumtoxinA 64 U treatment in Period 2.<br><br>CONCLUSION: OnabotulinumtoxinA treatment was associated with high subject satisfaction and significant improvements in appearance-related psychological and emotional impacts.}, }
@article {pmid30816066, year = {2019}, author = {Ploughman, M and Eskes, GA and Kelly, LP and Kirkland, MC and Devasahayam, AJ and Wallack, EM and Abraha, B and Hasan, SMM and Downer, MB and Keeler, L and Wilson, G and Skene, E and Sharma, I and Chaves, AR and Curtis, ME and Bedford, E and Robertson, GS and Moore, CS and McCarthy, J and Mackay-Lyons, M}, title = {Synergistic Benefits of Combined Aerobic and Cognitive Training on Fluid Intelligence and the Role of IGF-1 in Chronic Stroke.}, journal = {Neurorehabilitation and neural repair}, volume = {33}, number = {3}, pages = {199-212}, doi = {10.1177/1545968319832605}, pmid = {30816066}, issn = {1552-6844}, mesh = {Aged ; Chronic Disease/psychology/rehabilitation ; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/*methods ; Combined Modality Therapy/methods ; Exercise Therapy/*methods ; Female ; Humans ; Insulin-Like Growth Factor I/*analysis ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Stroke/blood/*psychology ; Stroke Rehabilitation/*methods ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Paired exercise and cognitive training have the potential to enhance cognition by "priming" the brain and upregulating neurotrophins.<br><br>METHODS: Two-site randomized controlled trial. Fifty-two patients >6 months poststroke with concerns about cognitive impairment trained 50 to 70 minutes, 3&#xd7; week for 10 weeks with 12-week follow-up. Participants were randomized to 1 of 2 physical interventions: Aerobic (>60% VO2peak using <10% body weight-supported treadmill) or Activity (range of movement and functional tasks). Exercise was paired with 1 of 2 cognitive interventions (computerized dual working memory training [COG] or control computer games [Games]). The primary outcome for the 4 groups (Aerobic + COG, Aerobic + Games, Activity + COG, and Activity + Games) was fluid intelligence measured using Raven's Progressive Matrices Test administered at baseline, posttraining, and 3-month follow-up. Serum neurotrophins collected at one site (N = 30) included brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) at rest (BDNFresting) and after a graded exercise test (BDNFresponse) and insulin-like growth factor-1 at the same timepoints (IGF-1rest, IGF-1response).<br><br>RESULTS: At follow-up, fluid intelligence scores significantly improved compared to baseline in the Aerobic + COG and Activity + COG groups; however, only the Aerobic + COG group was significantly different (+47.8%) from control (Activity + Games -8.5%). Greater IGF-1response at baseline predicted 40% of the variance in cognitive improvement. There was no effect of the interventions on BDNFresting or BDNFresponse; nor was BDNF predictive of the outcome.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Aerobic exercise combined with cognitive training improved fluid intelligence by almost 50% in patients >6 months poststroke. Participants with more robust improvements in cognition were able to upregulate higher levels of serum IGF-1 suggesting that this neurotrophin may be involved in behaviorally induced plasticity.}, }
@article {pmid30804304, year = {2019}, author = {Dhanu, G and Havale, R and Shrutha, SP and Quazi, N and Shafna, TP and Ahemd, A}, title = {Assessment of Intelligence Quotient using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices among school children of Hyderabad Karnataka region and its correlation with prevalence of dental caries.}, journal = {Journal of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry}, volume = {37}, number = {1}, pages = {25-30}, doi = {10.4103/JISPPD.JISPPD_236_18}, pmid = {30804304}, issn = {1998-3905}, mesh = {Child ; DMF Index ; Dental Caries/*epidemiology/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; India/epidemiology ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Prevalence ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Intelligence is the ability of a mind to acquire knowledge and skills; gain for a fact; to take care of issues; to adjust to new circumstances; and one's ability for rationale, understanding, mindfulness, arranging, and imagination. In a general description, it is a capacity to recognize information and to employ it as knowledge toward a modified behavior within an environment. This thought helps children to maintain oral hygiene in a better way.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present research was undertaken on 240 schoolgoing children aged 7-11 years of government schools of Hyderabad-Karnataka region, in order to estimate the relation between intelligence quotient (IQ) of a child with dental caries. IQ level has been assessed by using Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices as an IQ testing scale. Caries status was assessed by using Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth index.<br><br>RESULTS: There was no statistical difference between children with different levels of IQ and dental caries. However, the majority of children who belong to Grade V (intellectually impaired) had higher dental caries.<br><br>CONCLUSION: An increase in IQ causes a decrease in dental caries and vice versa; however, no significant association was observed between the level of intelligence and caries (P = 0.202). There is a promising correlation between IQ and presence or absence of dental caries among children.}, }
@article {pmid30800378, year = {2019}, author = {McCune, KB and Jablonski, P and Lee, SI and Ha, RR}, title = {Captive jays exhibit reduced problem-solving performance compared to wild conspecifics.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {6}, number = {1}, pages = {181311}, pmid = {30800378}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {Animal cognitive abilities are frequently quantified in strictly controlled settings, with laboratory-reared subjects. Results from these studies have merit for clarifying proximate mechanisms of performance and the potential upper limits of certain cognitive abilities. Researchers often assume that performance on laboratory-based assessments accurately represents the abilities of wild conspecifics, but this is infrequently tested. In this experiment, we quantified the performance of wild and captive corvid subjects on an extractive foraging task. We found that performance was not equivalent, and wild subjects were faster at problem-solving to extract the food reward. By contrast, there was no difference in the time it took for captive and wild solvers to repeat the behaviour to get additional food rewards (learning speed). Our findings differ from the few other studies that have statistically compared wild and captive performance on assessments of problem-solving and learning. This indicates that without explicitly testing it, we cannot assume that captive animal performance on experimental tasks can be generalized to the species as a whole. To better understand the causes and consequences of a variety of animal cognitive abilities, we should measure performance in the social and physical environment in which the ability in question evolved.}, }
@article {pmid30800374, year = {2019}, author = {L'Herpiniere, KL and O'Neill, LG and Russell, AF and Duursma, DE and Griffith, SC}, title = {Unscrambling variation in avian eggshell colour and patterning in a continent-wide study.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {6}, number = {1}, pages = {181269}, pmid = {30800374}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {The evolutionary drivers underlying marked variation in the pigmentation of eggs within many avian species remains unclear. The leading hypotheses proposed to explain such variation advocate the roles of genetic differences, signalling and/or structural integrity. One means of testing among these hypotheses is to capitalize on museum collections of eggs obtained throughout a broad geographical range of a species to ensure sufficient variation in predictors pertaining to each hypothesis. Here, we measured coloration and patterning in eggs from 272 clutches of Australian magpies (Cracticus tibicen) collected across most of their geographical range of ca 7 million km[2]; encompassing eight subspecies, variation in environmental parameters, and the presence/absence of a brood parasite. We found considerable variation in background colour, as well as in the extent and distribution of patterning across eggs. There was little evidence that this variation was explained by subspecies or the contemporary presence of a brood parasite. However, measures of maximum temperature, leaf area index and soil calcium all contributed to variation in egg appearance, although their explanatory power was relatively low. Our results suggest that multiple factors combine to influence egg appearance in this species, and that even in species with highly variable eggs, coloration is not readily explained.}, }
@article {pmid30782863, year = {2019}, author = {Anderson, YC and Kirkpatrick, K and Dolan, GMS and Wouldes, TA and Grant, CC and Cave, TL and Wild, CEK and Derraik, JGB and Cutfield, WS and Hofman, PL}, title = {Do changes in weight status affect cognitive function in children and adolescents with obesity? A secondary analysis of a clinical trial.}, journal = {BMJ open}, volume = {9}, number = {2}, pages = {e021586}, pmid = {30782863}, issn = {2044-6055}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Body Mass Index ; Child ; *Cognition ; *Executive Function ; Female ; Humans ; Linear Models ; Male ; New Zealand ; Pediatric Obesity/*psychology/therapy ; Weight Loss ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: It is unclear whether an association exists between obesity in children/adolescents and cognitive function, and whether the latter can be altered by body mass index (BMI) standard deviation score (SDS) reductions. We aimed to determine whether an association exists between BMI SDS and cognitive function in children/adolescents with obesity engaged in an obesity intervention. Second, we sought to determine if BMI SDS reduction at 12 months was associated with improved cognitive function.<br><br>DESIGN: Secondary analysis of a clinical trial.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: Participants (n=69) were recruited from an obesity intervention. Eligible participants (recruited June 2013 to June 2015) were aged 6-16 years, with a BMI &#x2265;98th centile or BMI >91st centile with weight-related comorbidities.<br><br>OUTCOME MEASURES: Primary outcome measure was change in BMI SDS from baseline at 12 months. Dependent variables of cognitive functioning and school achievement were assessed at baseline and 12 months, using dependent variables of cognitive functioning (elements of Ravens Standard Progressive Matrices, Wide Range Achievement Test-fourth edition and Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-fourth edition).<br><br>RESULTS: At baseline, BMI SDS was not associated with all aspects of cognitive function tested (n=69). Reductions in BMI SDS over time did not alter cognitive function overall. However, there was a greater reduction in comprehension standard scores in participants who increased their BMI SDS (adjusted estimated difference -6.1, 95% CI -11.6 to -0.6; p=0.03).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: There were no observed associations between BMI SDS and cognitive function in participants, apart from comprehension in the exploratory analyses, which may have been a random finding. Further studies need to include larger longitudinal cohorts incorporating a wider BMI range at entry to determine whether our findings persist.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ANZCTR12611000862943; Pre-results.}, }
@article {pmid30773853, year = {2019}, author = {Hong, K and Wong, IYH and Singh, K and Chang, RT}, title = {Corneal Biomechanics Using a Scheimpflug-Based Noncontact Device in Normal-Tension Glaucoma and Healthy Controls.}, journal = {Asia-Pacific journal of ophthalmology (Philadelphia, Pa.)}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {22-29}, doi = {10.22608/APO.2018334}, pmid = {30773853}, issn = {2162-0989}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Case-Control Studies ; Corneal Pachymetry ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Hong Kong ; Humans ; Intraocular Pressure/*physiology ; Logistic Models ; Low Tension Glaucoma/*physiopathology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Prospective Studies ; Tonometry, Ocular/methods ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To determine if a novel biomechanical parameter, corneal applanation velocity, as measured by the Corvis ST, is associated with a diagnosis of normal-tension glaucoma (NTG).<br><br>DESIGN: Prospective, cross-sectional study.<br><br>METHODS: Study and control subjects were recruited from the ophthalmology clinic of a university teaching hospital in Hong Kong over an 8-week period in 2013. A total of 80 eyes with NTG diagnosis and 155 healthy eyes randomly selected to be in the control group were included in the final analysis. All subjects underwent corneal biomechanical testing with the Oculus Corvis ST non-contact tonometer. Logistic regression analysis adjusted for age and central corneal thickness was conducted to assess the relationship between inward and outward applanation velocity and the risk of NTG. Secondary outcome variables included corneal applanation time, length, amplitude, and highest concavity.<br><br>RESULTS: Inward applanation velocity was faster in the NTG eyes (0.15 &#xb1; 0.02 m/s) than in the control eyes (0.14 &#xb1; 0.02 m/s) (P = 0.016). The odds ratio for a 0.01 m/s increase in inward applanation velocity when comparing NTG eyes with control eyes adjusted for age and central corneal thickness was 1.15 (95% confidence interval, 1.03-1.30) (P = 0.016). There was no evidence that outward applanation velocity or any secondary corneal biomechanical variable differed between the NTG and control eyes.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Normal-tension glaucoma eyes demonstrated a small, statistically significant faster corneal inward applanation velocity than normal control eyes.}, }
@article {pmid30763308, year = {2019}, author = {Bauch, C and Boonekamp, JJ and Korsten, P and Mulder, E and Verhulst, S}, title = {Epigenetic inheritance of telomere length in wild birds.}, journal = {PLoS genetics}, volume = {15}, number = {2}, pages = {e1007827}, pmid = {30763308}, issn = {1553-7404}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/*genetics ; Birds/*genetics ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Epigenesis, Genetic/*genetics ; Epigenomics/methods ; Fathers ; Female ; Heredity/*genetics ; Male ; Paternal Age ; Reproduction/genetics ; Spermatozoa/physiology ; Telomere/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Telomere length (TL) predicts health and survival across taxa. Variation in TL between individuals is thought to be largely of genetic origin, but telomere inheritance is unusual, because zygotes already express a TL phenotype, the TL of the parental gametes. Offspring TL changes with paternal age in many species including humans, presumably through age-related TL changes in sperm, suggesting an epigenetic inheritance mechanism. However, present evidence is based on cross-sectional analyses, and age at reproduction is confounded with between-father variation in TL. Furthermore, the quantitative importance of epigenetic TL inheritance is unknown. Using longitudinal data of free-living jackdaws Corvus monedula, we show that erythrocyte TL of subsequent offspring decreases with parental age within individual fathers, but not mothers. By cross-fostering eggs, we confirmed the paternal age effect to be independent of paternal age dependent care. Epigenetic inheritance accounted for a minimum of 34% of the variance in offspring TL that was explained by paternal TL. This is a minimum estimate, because it ignores the epigenetic component in paternal TL variation and sperm TL heterogeneity within ejaculates. Our results indicate an important epigenetic component in the heritability of TL with potential consequences for offspring fitness prospects.}, }
@article {pmid30758867, year = {2019}, author = {Cho, C and Cho, E and Kim, N and Shin, J and Woo, S and Lee, E and Hwang, J and Ha, J}, title = {Age-related biophysical changes of the epidermal and dermal skin in Korean women.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {25}, number = {4}, pages = {504-511}, doi = {10.1111/srt.12679}, pmid = {30758867}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Biophysical Phenomena ; Dermis/metabolism/*pathology ; Elasticity ; Epidermis/metabolism/*pathology ; Face/*pathology/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Republic of Korea/epidemiology ; Skin Aging/*physiology ; Skin Pigmentation ; Spectrophotometry/methods ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The clinical characteristics of skin were investigated to study the inter-relationship and changes in the biophysical properties of the epidermal and dermal layers associated with aging using noninvasive methods.<br><br>METHODS: Our study included 100 healthy women aged between the early 20s and late 60s. Biophysical characteristics of skin such as color (brightness and spots), transparency, wrinkle on crow's feet, elasticity, hydration, sebum content, glossiness, and transepidermal water loss measured under controlled conditions.<br><br>RESULTS: This study performed in a Korean population demonstrated that aging significantly affects human skin in terms of parameters such as wrinkles, skin color, elasticity, and epidermal hydration. Age-related changes in skin hydration showed varying patterns between the epidermis and dermis. Skin color showed heterogeneous characteristics between the upper and lower epidermal layers associated with aging. Skin elasticity and wrinkles were observed to show and inversely proportional relationship in the early 40s.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: We confirmed the significant influence of aging on the biophysical properties of skin and determined the distinct age-related biophysical changes in the epidermal and dermal layers of skin using noninvasive method. This study indicates the need for further research to investigate the distinctive age-related changes in characteristics of the epidermal and dermal layers of human skin.}, }
@article {pmid30744978, year = {2019}, author = {Gruber, R and Schiestl, M and Boeckle, M and Frohnwieser, A and Miller, R and Gray, RD and Clayton, NS and Taylor, AH}, title = {New Caledonian Crows Use Mental Representations to Solve Metatool Problems.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {29}, number = {4}, pages = {686-692.e3}, pmid = {30744978}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; Crows/*physiology ; *Imagination ; *Problem Solving ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {One of the mysteries of animal problem-solving is the extent to which animals mentally represent problems in their minds. Humans can imagine both the solution to a problem and the stages along the way [1-3], such as when we plan one or two moves ahead in chess. The extent to which other animals can do the same is far less clear [4-25]. Here, we presented New Caledonian crows with a series of metatool problems where each stage was out of sight of the others and the crows had to avoid either a distractor apparatus containing a non-functional tool or a non-functional apparatus containing a functional tool. Crows were able to mentally represent the sub-goals and goals of metatool problems: crows kept in mind the location and identities of out-of-sight tools and apparatuses while planning and performing a sequence of tool behaviors. This provides the first conclusive evidence that birds can plan several moves ahead while using tools.}, }
@article {pmid30742302, year = {2019}, author = {Nowaczyk, N and Kalinowska-Łyszczarz, A and Paprzycki, W and Michalak, S and Kaźmierski, R and Pawlak, MA}, title = {Spatial distribution of white matter degenerative lesions and cognitive dysfunction in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients.}, journal = {Neurologia i neurochirurgia polska}, volume = {53}, number = {1}, pages = {18-25}, pmid = {30742302}, issn = {0028-3843}, support = {R01 AG013743/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Brain ; *Cognitive Dysfunction ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; *Multiple Sclerosis ; *Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *White Matter ; }, abstract = {AIM: The aim of this study was to assess degenerative lesion localisation in the course of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and to identify the association between localisation and the frequency of T1-hypointense lesions (black holes) with cognitive dysfunction. We also searched for neuroradiological predictors of cognitive dysfunction in patients. The clinical rationale for the study was previous research, and our own findings suggest that lesion localisation plays an important role in cognitive performance and neurological disability of MS patients.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty-two patients were included in the study. All subjects underwent neuropsychological examination using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, a naming task from the Brief Repeatable Battery of Neuropsychological Tests, and attention to detail tests. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was acquired on 1.5 Tesla scanner and black holes were manually segmented on T1-weighted volumetric images using the FMRIB Software Library. Linear regression was applied to establish a relationship between black hole volume per lobe and cognitive parameters. Bonferroni correction of voxelwise analysis was used to correct for multiple comparisons.<br><br>RESULTS: The following associations between black hole volume and cognition were identified: frontal lobes black hole volume was associated with phonemic verbal fluency (t = -4.013, p < 0.001), parietal black hole volume was associated with attention (t = -3.776, p < 0.001), and parietal and temporal black hole volumes were associated with nonverbal intelligence (p < 0.001). The volume of parietal black holes was the best predictor of cognitive dysfunction.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our approach, including measurement of focal axonal loss based on T1-volumetric MRI sequence and brief neuropsychological assessment, might improve personalised diagnostic and therapeutic decisions in clinical practice.}, }
@article {pmid30733635, year = {2019}, author = {de Luna-Dias, C and de Carvalho-E-Silva, SP}, title = {Calls of Boanalatistriata (Caramaschi &amp; Cruz, 2004) (Amphibia, Anura, Hylidae), an endemic tree frog from the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil.}, journal = {ZooKeys}, volume = {}, number = {820}, pages = {83-94}, pmid = {30733635}, issn = {1313-2989}, abstract = {Bioacoustical data are useful for studying amphibians, especially their conservation, taxonomy, and evolution, among others. Of the 12 species of the Boanapolytaenia clade, only B.buriti and B.latistriata have no published information about their advertisement calls. We recorded four males of B.latistriata in its type locality at Parque Nacional do Itatiaia, south-eastern Brazil. We used a Roland R26 digital recorder with a Sennheiser ME-67 microphone and analysed the recordings using the Raven Pro 1.5 software. We recorded two different types of calls (call A and call B). Both were composed of one pulsed note and presented a slightly ascending-descending frequency modulation. Call A was more frequent, having durations between 0.042 and 0.093 s with the dominant frequency ranging from 3375.0 to 3937.5 Hz, and was composed of 11 to 21 pulses separated by intervals that were not fully silent. Call B had durations between 0.711 and 1.610 s, with dominant frequency from 3281.2 to 3750.0 Hz, and was composed of 11 to 29 pulses separated by fully silent intervals. Among the B.polytaenia clade, the calls of B.latistriata are more similar to those of B.bandeirantes, B.beckeri, B.polytaenia, and B.aff.beckeri. The calls of B.latistriata differ from these species in its lower dominant frequency. Boanalatistriata present a short, single-note call with a lower pulse period (call A) and a long call with higher pulse period (call B), which differ from the other species of the clade. The coefficients of variation for the various bioacoustical attributes were calculated within- and between-males and these have been discussed. We also report a fight event between two males of B.latistriata. This is the first report of a fight in members of the B.polytaenia clade.}, }
@article {pmid30727944, year = {2019}, author = {Veiga, IMB and Lüschow, D and Gutzer, S and Hafez, HM and Mühldorfer, K}, title = {Phylogenetic relationship of Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale isolated from poultry and diverse avian hosts based on 16S rRNA and rpoB gene analyses.}, journal = {BMC microbiology}, volume = {19}, number = {1}, pages = {31}, pmid = {30727944}, issn = {1471-2180}, mesh = {Animals ; Bacterial Typing Techniques ; Birds/*microbiology ; Flavobacteriaceae Infections/microbiology/*veterinary ; Genes, Bacterial ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; Ornithobacterium/*classification/isolation &amp; purification ; *Phylogeny ; Poultry/*microbiology ; Poultry Diseases/microbiology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Turkeys/microbiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Ornithobacterium (O.) rhinotracheale is an emerging bacterial pathogen in poultry and not fully understood to date. Because of its importance particularly for the global turkey meat industry, reliable diagnostic and characterization methods are needed for early treatment and in future for better vaccine production. The host range of birds infected by O. rhinotracheale or carrying the bacterium in their respiratory tract has constantly increased raising important epidemiological and taxonomic questions for a better understanding of its diversity, ecology and transmission cycles. The purpose of this study was to introduce partial rpoB gene sequencing for O. rhinotracheale into routine diagnostics to differentiate strains isolated from poultry and more diverse avian hosts (i.e., birds of prey, corvids and pigeons) and to compare phylogenetic relationships with results from 16S rRNA gene analysis and multilocus sequence typing (MLST).<br><br>RESULTS: Partial 16S rRNA gene analysis revealed a high level of homogeneity among the 65 investigated O. rhinotracheale sequences with similarity values ranging from 98.6 to 100% between sequences from non-galliform and poultry species. The corresponding rpoB gene sequences were heterogeneous and ranged in their similarity values from 85.1 to 100%. The structure of the rpoB tree was in strong correlation with previous MLST results revealing three main clusters A (poultry and birds of prey), B (poultry, birds of prey and corvids) and C (pigeons), which were clearly separated from each other.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: By using partial sequences from a single gene, the rpoB gene analysis is in good agreement with MLST results with a slight decrease in resolution to distinguish more similar strains. The present results provide strong evidence that traditional phenotypic and genetic methods may not properly represent the heterogeneous group of bacteria classified as O. rhinotracheale. From housekeeping gene analyses, it is very likely that the genus Ornithobacterium includes additional species and partial rpoB gene sequencing can be recommended as fast, cost-effective and readily available method to identify strains and differentiate between O. rhinotracheale and Ornithobacterium-like bacteria.}, }
@article {pmid30723505, year = {2018}, author = {Titah, HS and Abdullah, SRS and Idris, M and Anuar, N and Basri, H and Mukhlisin, M and Tangahu, BV and Purwanti, IF and Kurniawan, SB}, title = {Arsenic Resistance and Biosorption by Isolated Rhizobacteria from the Roots of Ludwigia octovalvis.}, journal = {International journal of microbiology}, volume = {2018}, number = {}, pages = {3101498}, pmid = {30723505}, issn = {1687-918X}, abstract = {Certain rhizobacteria can be applied to remove arsenic in the environment through bioremediation or phytoremediation. This study determines the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of arsenic on identified rhizobacteria that were isolated from the roots of Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) Raven. The arsenic biosorption capability of the was also analyzed. Among the 10 isolated rhizobacteria, five were Gram-positive (Arthrobacter globiformis, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus pumilus, and Staphylococcus lentus), and five were Gram-negative (Enterobacter asburiae, Sphingomonas paucimobilis, Pantoea spp., Rhizobium rhizogenes, and Rhizobium radiobacter). R. radiobacter showed the highest MIC of >1,500 mg/L of arsenic. All the rhizobacteria were capable of absorbing arsenic, and S. paucimobilis showed the highest arsenic biosorption capability (146.4 ± 23.4 mg/g dry cell weight). Kinetic rate analysis showed that B. cereus followed the pore diffusion model (R [2] = 0.86), E. asburiae followed the pseudo-first-order kinetic model (R [2] = 0.99), and R. rhizogenes followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R [2] = 0.93). The identified rhizobacteria differ in their mechanism of arsenic biosorption, arsenic biosorption capability, and kinetic models in arsenic biosorption.}, }
@article {pmid30718374, year = {2019}, author = {Wu, CC and Klaesson, A and Buskas, J and Ranefall, P and Mirzazadeh, R and Söderberg, O and Wolf, JBW}, title = {In situ quantification of individual mRNA transcripts in melanocytes discloses gene regulation of relevance to speciation.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {222}, number = {Pt 5}, pages = {}, pmid = {30718374}, issn = {1477-9145}, support = {336536/ERC_/European Research Council/International ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Color ; Crows/genetics/*physiology ; Feathers/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; *Gene Expression Regulation ; *Genetic Speciation ; Melanocytes/metabolism ; Pigmentation/*genetics ; Pigments, Biological/biosynthesis/*genetics ; RNA, Messenger/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Functional validation of candidate genes involved in adaptation and speciation remains challenging. Here, we exemplify the utility of a method quantifying individual mRNA transcripts in revealing the molecular basis of divergence in feather pigment synthesis during early-stage speciation in crows. Using a padlock probe assay combined with rolling circle amplification, we quantified cell-type-specific gene expression in the histological context of growing feather follicles. Expression of Tyrosinase Related Protein 1 (TYRP1), Solute Carrier Family 45 member 2 (SLC45A2) and Hematopoietic Prostaglandin D Synthase (HPGDS) was melanocyte-limited and significantly reduced in follicles from hooded crow, explaining the substantially lower eumelanin content in grey versus black feathers. The central upstream Melanocyte Inducing Transcription Factor (MITF) only showed differential expression specific to melanocytes - a feature not captured by bulk RNA-seq. Overall, this study provides insight into the molecular basis of an evolutionary young transition in pigment synthesis, and demonstrates the power of histologically explicit, statistically substantiated single-cell gene expression quantification for functional genetic inference in natural populations.}, }
@article {pmid30711042, year = {2019}, author = {Asghari, A and Sadraei, J and Pirestani, M and Mohammadpour, I}, title = {First molecular identification and subtype distribution of Blastocystis sp. isolated from hooded crows (Corvus cornix) and pigeons (Columba livia) in Tehran Province, Iran.}, journal = {Comparative immunology, microbiology and infectious diseases}, volume = {62}, number = {}, pages = {25-30}, doi = {10.1016/j.cimid.2018.11.013}, pmid = {30711042}, issn = {1878-1667}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/*parasitology ; Blastocystis/*classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Blastocystis Infections/*veterinary ; Columbidae/*parasitology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Crows/*parasitology ; Feces/parasitology ; Humans ; Iran/epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {Blastocystis is a common intestinal parasite among humans and animals such as non-human primates, pigs, cattle, birds, amphibians, and less frequently, rats, reptiles and insects. Since Blastocystis is a widely transmissible parasite between humans and mammals or birds, it is prominent to determine whether newly secluded non-human isolates are zoonotic. There are no comprehensive studies in Iran assessing the prevalence and molecular identification of Blastocystis infection in birds, especially in pigeons and crows. So, the aim of this study was to identify Blastocystis subtypes (STs) in crows and pigeons in Tehran province, Iran, using Nested PCR-RFLP and sequencing. Overall, 300 Blastocystis isolates from birds (156 pigeons and 144 crows) were subtyped by PCR, and the homology among isolates was then confirmed by RFLP analysis of the 18S rRNA gene. The prevalence of Blastocystis infection was detected 42.9% in pigeons and 44.4% in crows. All positive pigeons were owned by ST13 (100%). Among crows, 46 samples (71.8%) like pigeons were ST13, and 13 samples (20.3%) were ST14. Five samples (7.9%) remained unknown. This study was the first report of ST13 and ST14 of Blastocystis from birds. In the present study, our data revealed a high prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in pigeon's and crow's samples and the isolates from these birds were classified into two genetically distinct STs. Therefore, birds appear to be infected with various STs. It is important to determine the phylogenetic relationships between unknown STs from these birds and the multiple STs of Blastocystis.}, }
@article {pmid30704017, year = {2019}, author = {Gryz, J and Krauze-Gryz, D}, title = {Indirect Influence of African Swine Fever Outbreak on the Raven (Corvus corax) Population.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {9}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {30704017}, issn = {2076-2615}, support = {240115, 240104//MInistry of Environment/ ; }, abstract = {Carrion plays a crucial role in the raven's diet. In the past, domestic pig carrion was widely available in Poland. This changed with an African swine fever (ASF) outbreak and the introduction of strict procedures aimed at stopping the virus from spreading. We compared data from Central Poland (field and forest mosaic, study area of 105 km[2]) for two periods, i.e., before (2011[-]2014) and after the ASF outbreak (2015[-]2018). In breeding seasons, nests of ravens were found, juveniles were counted, and the time when juveniles left their nests was recorded. Diet composition data were based on pellet analysis and direct observations of feeding birds. The number of breeding pairs dropped from 12.3 to 7.5 in the second period. Breeding parameters were similar. However, birds in the second period had fewer fledglings per successful pair. Domestic pig carrion was found to be an important food item, and with its limited supply, ravens changed their diet, i.e., they fed on the carrion of dogs and cats or preyed on small vertebrates more often. Overall, our study points to a crucial role of the availability of the carrion of big farm animals (i.e., domestic pig) in maintaining the high density of breeding raven populations.}, }
@article {pmid33945715, year = {2019}, author = {Blass, R}, title = {Response to Jay Greenberg's letter.}, journal = {The International journal of psycho-analysis}, volume = {100}, number = {1}, pages = {150-151}, doi = {10.1080/00207578.2019.1568834}, pmid = {33945715}, issn = {1745-8315}, }
@article {pmid30697741, year = {2019}, author = {Sen, S and Parishar, P and Pundir, AS and Reiner, A and Iyengar, S}, title = {The expression of tyrosine hydroxylase and DARPP-32 in the house crow (Corvus splendens) brain.}, journal = {The Journal of comparative neurology}, volume = {527}, number = {11}, pages = {1801-1836}, doi = {10.1002/cne.24649}, pmid = {30697741}, issn = {1096-9861}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain/*metabolism ; Crows/*metabolism ; Dopamine and cAMP-Regulated Phosphoprotein 32/*metabolism ; Neurons/metabolism ; Tyrosine 3-Monooxygenase/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Birds of the family Corvidae which includes diverse species such as crows, rooks, ravens, magpies, jays, and jackdaws are known for their amazing abilities at problem-solving. Since the catecholaminergic system, especially the neurotransmitter dopamine, plays a role in cognition, we decided to study the distribution of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), the rate-limiting enzyme in the synthesis of catecholamines in the brain of house crows (Corvus splendens). We also studied the expression of DARPP-32 (dopamine and cAMP-regulated phosphoprotein), which is expressed in dopaminoceptive neurons. Our results demonstrated that as in other avian species, the expression of both TH and DARPP-32 was highest in the house crow striatum. The caudolateral nidopallium (NCL, the avian analogue of the mammalian prefrontal cortex) could be differentiated from the surrounding pallial regions based on a larger number of TH-positive "baskets" of fibers around neurons in this region and greater intensity of DARPP-32 staining in the neuropil in this region. House crows also possessed distinct nuclei in their brains which corresponded to song control regions in other songbirds. Whereas immunoreactivity for TH was higher in the vocal control region Area X compared to the surrounding MSt (medial striatum) in house crows, staining in RA and HVC was not as prominent. Furthermore, the arcopallial song control regions RA (nucleus robustus arcopallialis) and AId (intermediate arcopallium) were strikingly negative for DARPP-32 staining, in contrast to the surrounding arcopallium. Patterns of immunoreactivity for TH and DARPP-32 in "limbic" areas such as the hippocampus, septum, and extended amygdala have also been described.}, }
@article {pmid30694341, year = {2019}, author = {Ruiz-Ripa, L and Gómez, P and Alonso, CA and Camacho, MC and de la Puente, J and Fernández-Fernández, R and Ramiro, Y and Quevedo, MA and Blanco, JM and Zarazaga, M and Höfle, U and Torres, C}, title = {Detection of MRSA of Lineages CC130-mecC and CC398-mecA and Staphylococcus delphini-lnu(A) in Magpies and Cinereous Vultures in Spain.}, journal = {Microbial ecology}, volume = {78}, number = {2}, pages = {409-415}, pmid = {30694341}, issn = {1432-184X}, support = {SAF2016-76571-R//Ministerio de Econom?a, Industria y Competitividad, Gobierno de Espa?a/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/*microbiology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Falconiformes/*microbiology ; Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/classification/drug effects/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; Penicillin-Binding Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Spain ; Tetracycline/pharmacology ; Virulence Factors/genetics/metabolism ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to determine the carriage rate of coagulase-positive staphylococci (CoPS) in wild birds and to characterize recovered isolates. Tracheal samples from 324 wild birds, obtained in different Spanish regions during 2015-2016, were screened for CoPS carriage. The antimicrobial resistance profile and the virulence gene content were investigated. Molecular typing was performed by spa, agr, MLST, SCCmec, and S. delphini group classification. CoPS were recovered from 26 samples of wild birds (8.3%), and 27 isolates were further characterized. Two CoPS species were detected: S. aureus (n = 15; eight cinereous vultures and seven magpies) and S. delphini (n = 12; 11 cinereous vultures and one red kite). Thirteen S. aureus were methicillin-resistant (MRSA) and the remaining two strains were methicillin-susceptible (MSSA). Twelve MRSA were mecC-positive, typed as t843-ST1583/ST1945/ST1581/ST1571 (n = 11) and t1535-ST1945 (n = 1) (all of clonal-complex CC130); they were susceptible to the non-β-lactams tested. The remaining MRSA strain carried the mecA gene, was typed as t011-ST398-CC398-agrI-SCCmec-V, and showed a multiresistance phenotype. MSSA isolates were ascribed to lineages ST97-CC97 and ST425-CC425. All S. aureus lacked the studied virulence genes (lukS/F-PV, tst, eta, etb, and etd), and the IEC type E (with scn and sak genes) was detected in four mecC-positive and one MSSA isolates. S. delphini strains were methicillin-susceptible but showed resistance to at least one of the antimicrobials tested, with high penicillin (75%, with blaZ gene) and tetracycline [58%, with tet(K)± tet(L)] resistance rates. All S. delphini isolates presented the virulence genes lukS-I, siet, and se-int, and four carried the clindamycin-resistance lnu(A) gene.}, }
@article {pmid30683665, year = {2019}, author = {Matsui, H and Izawa, EI}, title = {Rapid adjustment of pecking trajectory to prism-induced visual shifts in crows as compared with pigeons.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {222}, number = {Pt 4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.182345}, pmid = {30683665}, issn = {1477-9145}, mesh = {Animals ; Columbidae/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; *Motor Activity ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; *Vision, Ocular ; }, abstract = {Pecking in birds is analogous to reaching and grasping movements in primates. Earlier studies on visuomotor control in birds, which were conducted mostly in pigeons, suggested that avian pecking is controlled feedforwardly, and is out of the control of visual guidance during movement. However, recent studies using crows suggested a role of vision in pecking control during movement. To unveil what visuomotor mechanisms underlie the flexibility of pecking in crows, we examined whether pigeons and crows adjust their pecking to the visual distortion induced by prisms. Because prisms induce visual shifts of object positions, birds were required to adjust their movements. Pecking kinematics were examined before and after attaching prisms in front of the birds' eyes. Analysis of lateral deviation caused by the prisms showed that crows rapidly adjusted their pecking trajectories, but pigeons did so slowly. Angular displacement also increased in pigeons after attachment of the prism, but decreased in crows. These responses to prisms were consistent among individuals in pigeons but varied in crows, though the adjustment of pecking commonly succeeded in crows. These results suggest that pecking in pigeons predominantly involves feedforward control and that the movement is determined depending on the visual information available before the initiation of pecking. In contrast, the results from crows suggest that their pecking trajectories are corrected during the movement, supporting on-line visual control. Our findings provide the first evidence to suggest the on-line visual control of pecking in birds.}, }
@article {pmid30681794, year = {2019}, author = {Kerscher, M and Wanitphakdeedecha, R and Trindade de Almeida, A and Maas, C and Frevert, J}, title = {IncobotulinumtoxinA: A Highly Purified and Precisely Manufactured Botulinum Neurotoxin Type A.}, journal = {Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD}, volume = {18}, number = {1}, pages = {52-57}, pmid = {30681794}, issn = {1545-9616}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/chemistry/immunology ; Cosmetic Techniques ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage/chemistry/immunology ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {Aesthetic dermatologic applications of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT), including treatment of glabellar lines, horizontal forehead lines, and crow’s feet, were the most common non-surgical cosmetic procedures in the US in 2017, with high levels of subject satisfaction. Since the first BoNT type A (BoNT-A) formulation was approved in 1989, the number of formulations available on the world’s commercial markets has increased and new approvals are expected. BoNT is produced by Clostridium botulinum in nature as part of a large protein complex. However, the unnecessary clostridial proteins, which dissociate from BoNT under physiological conditions with a half-life of <1 minute, have no role in clinical applications. Data demonstrate that BoNT administration can elicit an immunological response, leading to production of neutralizing antibodies that can be associated with reduced efficacy or treatment non-response. As repeat treatments are required to maintain efficacy, clinicians should be aware of the possibility of antibody development and choose a BoNT with the lowest risk of immunogenicity. IncobotulinumtoxinA is manufactured using advanced technology to precisely isolate the pure BoNT without unnecessary clostridial proteins, and with low immunogenicity and high specific activity. In incobotulinumtoxinA clinical studies, no previously BoNT-naïve subjects developed neutralizing antibodies, and there was no secondary non-response to incobotulinumtoxinA treatment. Here we review the role of unnecessary clostridial proteins in BoNT-A and discuss the unique incobotulinumtoxinA manufacturing and purification process with a focus on the implications for use in aesthetic medicine. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019;18(1):52-57.}, }
@article {pmid30679660, year = {2019}, author = {Umbers, KDL and White, TE and De Bona, S and Haff, T and Ryeland, J and Drinkwater, E and Mappes, J}, title = {The protective value of a defensive display varies with the experience of wild predators.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {463}, pmid = {30679660}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Behavior, Animal ; *Gryllidae ; *Predatory Behavior ; }, abstract = {Predation has driven the evolution of diverse adaptations for defence among prey, and one striking example is the deimatic display. While such displays can resemble, or indeed co-occur with, aposematic 'warning' signals, theory suggests deimatic displays may function independently of predator learning. The survival value of deimatic displays against wild predators has not been tested before. Here we used the mountain katydid Acripeza reticulata to test the efficacy of a putative deimatic display in the wild. Mountain katydids have a complex defence strategy; they are camouflaged at rest, but reveal a striking red-, blue-, and black-banded abdomen when attacked. We presented live katydids to sympatric (experienced) and allopatric (naive) natural predators, the Australian magpie Cracticus tibicen, and observed bird reactions and katydid behaviors and survival during repeated interactions. The efficacy of the katydids' defence differed with predator experience. Their survival was greatest when faced with naïve predators, which provided clear evidence of the protective value of the display. In contrast, katydid survival was consistently less likely when facing experienced predators. Our results suggest that sympatric predators have learned to attack and consume mountain katydids despite their complex defense, and that their post-attack display can be an effective deterrent, particularly against naïve predators. These results suggest that deimatism does not require predator learning to afford protection, but that a predator can learn to expect the display and subsequently avoid it or ignore it. That sympatric predators learn to ignore the defense is a possible explanation for the mountain katydid's counter-intuitive behavior of revealing warning colors only after tactile stimuli from predator attack.}, }
@article {pmid30679066, year = {2019}, author = {Dresow, M}, title = {Macroevolution evolving: Punctuated equilibria and the roots of Stephen Jay Gould's second macroevolutionary synthesis.}, journal = {Studies in history and philosophy of biological and biomedical sciences}, volume = {75}, number = {}, pages = {15-23}, doi = {10.1016/j.shpsc.2019.01.003}, pmid = {30679066}, issn = {1879-2499}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; *Paleontology ; }, }
@article {pmid30678427, year = {2019}, author = {S, P and N, KV and S, S}, title = {Breast Cancer Detection using Crow Search Optimization based Intuitionistic Fuzzy Clustering with Neighborhood Attraction.}, journal = {Asian Pacific journal of cancer prevention : APJCP}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {157-165}, pmid = {30678427}, issn = {2476-762X}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Breast Neoplasms/*diagnosis ; Cluster Analysis ; Fuzzy Logic ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/methods ; Mammography/methods ; }, abstract = {Objective: Generally, medical images contain lots of noise that may lead to uncertainty in diagnosing the abnormalities. Computer aided diagnosis systems offer a support to the radiologists in identifying the disease affected area. In mammographic images, some normal tissues may appear to be similar to masses and it is tedious to differentiate them. Therefore, this paper presents a novel framework for the detection of mammographic masses that leads to early diagnosis of breast cancer. Methods: This work proposes a Crow search optimization based Intuitionistic fuzzy clustering approach with neighborhood attraction (CrSA-IFCM-NA) for identifying the region of interest. First order moments were extracted from preprocessed images. These features were given as input to the Intuitionistic fuzzy clustering algorithm. Instead of randomly selecting the initial centroids, crow search optimization technique is applied to choose the best initial centroid and the masses are separated. Experiments are conducted over the images taken from the Mammographic Image Analysis Society (mini-MIAS) database. Results: CrSA-IFCM-NA effectively separated the masses from mammogram images and proved to have good results in terms of cluster validity indices indicating the clear segmentation of the regions. Conclusion: The experimental results show that the accuracy of the proposed method proves to be encouraging for detection of masses. Thus, it provides a better assistance to the radiologists in diagnosing breast cancer at an early stage.}, }
@article {pmid30668633, year = {2020}, author = {Wouters, H and Hilmer, SN and Gnjidic, D and Van Campen, JP and Teichert, M and Van Der Meer, HG and Schaap, LA and Huisman, M and Comijs, HC and Denig, P and Lamoth, CJ and Taxis, K}, title = {Long-Term Exposure to Anticholinergic and Sedative Medications and Cognitive and Physical Function in Later Life.}, journal = {The journals of gerontology. Series A, Biological sciences and medical sciences}, volume = {75}, number = {2}, pages = {357-365}, doi = {10.1093/gerona/glz019}, pmid = {30668633}, issn = {1758-535X}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cholinergic Antagonists/*administration &amp; dosage ; Cognition/*physiology ; *Exercise Test ; Female ; Geriatric Assessment ; Humans ; Hypnotics and Sedatives/*administration &amp; dosage ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Netherlands ; Polypharmacy ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Anticholinergic and sedative medications are frequently prescribed to older individuals. These medications are associated with short-term cognitive and physical impairment, but less is known about long-term associations. We therefore examined whether over 20 years cumulative exposure to these medications was related to poorer cognitive and physical functioning.<br><br>METHODS: Older adult participants of the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASA) were followed from 1992 to 2012. On seven measurement occasions, cumulative exposure to anticholinergic and sedative medications was quantified with the drug burden index (DBI), a linear additive pharmacological dose-response model. Cognitive functioning was assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Alphabet Coding Task (ACT, three trials), Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT, learning and retention condition), and Raven Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM, two trials). Physical functioning was assessed with the Walking Test (WT), Cardigan Test (CT), Chair Stands Test (CST), Balance Test (BT), and self-reported Functional Independence (FI). Data were analyzed with linear mixed models adjusted for age, education, sex, living with a partner, BMI, depressive symptoms, comorbidities (cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, COPD, osteoarthritis, CNS diseases), and prescribed medications.<br><br>RESULTS: Longitudinal associations were found of the DBI with poorer cognitive functioning (less items correct on the three ACT trials, AVLT learning condition, and the two RCPM trials) and with poorer physical functioning (longer completion time on the CT, CST, and lower self-reported FI).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This longitudinal analysis of data collected over 20 years, showed that higher long-term cumulative exposure to anticholinergic and sedative medications was associated with poorer cognitive and physical functioning.}, }
@article {pmid30667083, year = {2019}, author = {Kroneman, JGH and Faber, JW and Schouten, JCM and Wolschrijn, CF and Christoffels, VM and Jensen, B}, title = {Comparative analysis of avian hearts provides little evidence for variation among species with acquired endothermy.}, journal = {Journal of morphology}, volume = {280}, number = {3}, pages = {395-410}, pmid = {30667083}, issn = {1097-4687}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Heart Atria/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Mammals ; }, abstract = {Mammals and birds acquired high performance hearts and endothermy during their independent evolution from amniotes with many sauropsid features. A literature review shows that the variation in atrial morphology is greater in mammals than in ectothermic sauropsids. We therefore hypothesized that the transition from ectothermy to endothermy was associated with greater variation in cardiac structure. We tested the hypothesis in 14 orders of birds by assessing the variation in 15 cardiac structures by macroscopic inspection and histology, with an emphasis on the atria as they have multiple features that lend themselves to quantification. We found bird hearts to have multiple features in common with ectothermic sauropsids (synapomorphies), such as the presence of three sinus horns. Convergent features were shared with crocodylians and mammals, such as the cranial offset of the left atrioventricular junction. Other convergent features, like the compact organization of the atrial walls, were shared with mammals only. Pacemaker myocardium, identified by Isl1 expression, was anatomically node-like (Mallard), thickened (Chicken), or indistinct (Lesser redpoll, Jackdaw). Some features were distinctly avian, (autapomorphies) including the presence of a left atrial antechamber and the ventral merger of the left and right atrial auricles, which was found in some species of parrots and passerines. Most features, however, exhibited little variation. For instance, there were always three systemic veins and two pulmonary veins, whereas among mammals there are 2-3 and 1-7, respectively. Our findings suggest that the transition to high cardiac performance does not necessarily lead to a greater variation in cardiac structure.}, }
@article {pmid30663512, year = {2019}, author = {Kleider-Offutt, HM}, title = {Afraid of one afraid of all: When threat associations spread across face-types.}, journal = {The Journal of general psychology}, volume = {146}, number = {1}, pages = {93-110}, doi = {10.1080/00221309.2018.1540397}, pmid = {30663512}, issn = {1940-0888}, mesh = {Black or African American/psychology ; Anxiety/*psychology ; Face ; Fear/*psychology ; Female ; Generalization, Psychological/*physiology ; Humans ; Judgment ; Male ; Prejudice/*psychology ; Psychological Distance ; Reaction Time ; *Social Perception ; *Stereotyping ; White People/psychology ; }, abstract = {Fear can be acquired for objects not inherently associated with threat (e.g. birds), and this threat may generalize from prototypical to peripheral category members (e.g. crows vs. penguins). When categorizing people, pervasive stereotypes link Black men to assumed violence and criminality. Faces with Afrocentric features (prototypical) are more often associated with threat and criminality than non-Afrocentric (peripheral) faces regardless of whether the individual is Black or White. In this study, using a priming paradigm, threat associations related to negative racial stereotypes were tested as a vehicle for spreading fear across face-type categories. Results showed more negative than positive judgments for White face targets but only when the prime was primarily non-Afrocentric (i.e. Eurocentric). Black face targets were judged more negatively than positively regardless of prime. This suggests some cognitive processes related to threat generalizations of objects extend to complex social categories.}, }
@article {pmid30650339, year = {2019}, author = {Rubi, TL and Clark, DL and Keller, JS and Uetz, GW}, title = {Courtship behavior and coloration influence conspicuousness of wolf spiders (Schizocosa ocreata (Hentz)) to avian predators.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {162}, number = {}, pages = {215-220}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2018.12.023}, pmid = {30650339}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; *Courtship ; Freezing Reaction, Cataleptic ; Male ; *Mating Preference, Animal ; Passeriformes ; *Pigmentation ; Predatory Behavior ; *Selection, Genetic ; *Spiders ; Walking ; }, abstract = {Signalers must balance the benefits of detection by intended receivers with the costs of detection by eavesdroppers. This trade-off is exemplified by sexual signaling systems, in which signalers experience sexual selection for conspicuousness to mates as well as natural selection for crypsis to predators. In this study, we examined how courtship behavior and body coloration influenced the conspicuousness of males to avian predators in the well-studied brush-legged wolf spider system (Schizocosa ocreata (Hentz)). We focused on three behaviors (courtship, walking, and freezing) and two coloration schemes (natural coloration and idealized background-matching coloration). We presented captive blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) with video playbacks of male spiders in a presence-absence detection task and characterized conspicuousness by measuring response latency and detectability. We found that any type of motion significantly increased detectability, and that body coloration and behavior interacted to determine detectability while the spiders were in motion. Among spiders in motion, courting spiders were detected faster than walking spiders. Stationary (frozen) spiders, in contrast, were rarely detected. These results illustrate that male S. ocreata can be both highly conspicuous and highly cryptic to avian predators. Thus, while we find that courtship is conspicuous to avian predators in this system, we suggest that behavioral plasticity may mitigate some of the predation costs of the sexual signal.}, }
@article {pmid30638868, year = {2019}, author = {Ames, J and Warner, M and Siracusa, C and Signorini, S and Brambilla, P and Mocarelli, P and Eskenazi, B}, title = {Prenatal dioxin exposure and neuropsychological functioning in the Seveso Second Generation Health Study.}, journal = {International journal of hygiene and environmental health}, volume = {222}, number = {3}, pages = {425-433}, pmid = {30638868}, issn = {1618-131X}, support = {F06 TW002075/TW/FIC NIH HHS/United States ; F31 ES026488/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 ES007171/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; P30 ES001896/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Breast Feeding ; Child ; Environmental Pollutants/*blood ; Female ; Humans ; Italy ; Male ; *Maternal Exposure ; *Maternal-Fetal Exchange ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Polychlorinated Dibenzodioxins/*blood ; Pregnancy ; *Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects ; *Seveso Accidental Release ; Sex Characteristics ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Prenatal 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) exposure has been shown to alter sexual differentiation of the brain in animal models, impacting pubertal development, behavior, cortical dominance, and cognition. The effects of early life exposure to dioxin-like compounds on human neurodevelopment, however, are less clear and warrant further investigation.<br><br>METHODS: The Seveso Women's Health Study (SWHS), initiated in 1996, is a well-characterized cohort of 981 Italian women who lived in proximity to an industrial accident in July 1976 that resulted in one of the highest residential TCDD exposures on record. In 2014-2016, we enrolled offspring born after the accident into the Seveso Second Generation Health Study. Children aged 7-17 years old (n&#x202f;=&#x202f;161) completed a neuropsychological assessment spanning executive function and reverse learning (Wisconsin Card Sort), non-verbal intelligence (Raven's Progressive Matrices), attention and hyperactivity (Connor's Continuous Performance (CPT), and memory (Rey's Auditory Verbal Learning). We used multivariate regression with robust standard error estimates accounting for clustering of siblings to model the associations between these outcomes and prenatal exposure defined as TCDD measured in maternal serum collected soon after the explosion and estimated to pregnancy.<br><br>RESULTS: The children (82 male, 79 female) averaged 13.1 (&#xb1;2.9) years of age. Adjusting for covariates, a 10-fold increase in maternal serum TCDD was not adversely associated with reverse learning/set-shifting, memory, attention/impulsivity, or non-verbal intelligence. In sex-stratified models, prenatal TCDD was associated with more non-perseverative errors in boys but not in girls (pint&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.04). TCDD was also associated with attention deficits on the CPT but only among children with the shortest breastfeeding histories.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: While overall, there were no significant associations, the observed differential neurotoxic sensitivities to TCDD by sex and lactation history may warrant confirmation in future studies.}, }
@article {pmid30631293, year = {2018}, author = {Tian, Y and Fang, Y and Li, J}, title = {The Effect of Metacognitive Knowledge on Mathematics Performance in Self-Regulated Learning Framework-Multiple Mediation of Self-Efficacy and Motivation.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {2518}, pmid = {30631293}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Metacognition, self-efficacy, and motivation are important components of interaction in self-regulated learning (SRL). However, the psychological mechanism underlying the association among them in mathematical learning remained ambiguous. The present study investigated whether the relationship between metacognitive knowledge (MK) and mathematics performance can be mediated by self-efficacy and motivation. The sample comprised 569 students (245 male, Mage = 16.39, SD = 0.63) of Grade 10 in China. The MK in mathematics questionnaire, the self-efficacy questionnaire, the academic motivation scale, Raven advanced progressive matrix, and mathematics tests were used for data collection. Our results suggested that the mathematics performance could be predicted by MK, self-efficacy and intrinsic motivation. Moreover, the association between MK and mathematics performance was mediated by self-efficacy and intrinsic motivation, as revealed by a multiple mediation analysis. Additionally, there were sex differences in MK, self-efficacy and intrinsic motivation. The findings highlight the psychological mechanism in the mathematics of Chinese students and will help teachers to improve students' mathematical learning in SRL framework more effectively. Implications for education and further studies are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid30628856, year = {2019}, author = {Vazquez, A and Gustafson, KD and Harmeling, B and Ernest, HB}, title = {GENETIC DIVERSITY OF YELLOW-BILLED MAGPIES (PICA NUTALLI) BEFORE AND AFTER A WEST NILE VIRUS EPIDEMIC.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {55}, number = {2}, pages = {316-324}, doi = {10.7589/2018-01-023}, pmid = {30628856}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*virology ; California/epidemiology ; *Epidemics ; *Genetic Variation ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; West Nile Fever/*veterinary/virology ; }, abstract = {The appearance of West Nile virus (WNV) coincided with declines in California, US bird populations beginning in 2004, and particularly affected corvid populations, including Yellow-billed Magpies (Pica nutalli), an endemic species to California. Our objective was to determine if the timing of the WNV epidemic correlated with changes in the genetic diversity or population structure of magpies. We hypothesized the declines in magpie abundance from WNV would lead to genetic bottlenecks and reduced genetic diversity, but not to changes in population genetic structure. To test these hypotheses, we genetically typed magpie samples collected during the Dead Bird Survey before WNV arrived (2002-04), immediately after WNV arrived in late 2004 (2006-08), and several generations after the onset of the epidemic (2009-11). For each of these three time periods, we tested for genetic bottlenecks, estimated genetic heterozygosity, allelic richness, relatedness, effective population sizes, and genetic structure, with the use of 10 nuclear microsatellite loci. Although there was no evidence for spatial or temporal genetic structure, genetic-diversity estimates were similar or below estimates for endangered corvid species. Measures of genetic diversity were consistent across time periods. In contrast to our expectation, we detected a genetic bottleneck prior to the WNV epidemic, which may have coincided with severe drought conditions in California, increasing human population size in magpie range, and an estimated 33% decrease in population size. We found weak evidence to support a bottleneck after the introduction of WNV in California. Our results suggest the WNV epidemic did not have additional catastrophic effects on the neutral genetic diversity of P. nutalli in the sampled areas. However, because we detected lower heterozygosity in Yellow-billed Magpies than has been reported in closely related endangered species, this species is of conservation concern and should be monitored to detect further population declines or loss of genetic diversity.}, }
@article {pmid30613892, year = {2019}, author = {Luo, J and Wang, Y and Wang, Z and Gao, Z}, title = {Assessment of Pb and Cd contaminations in the urban waterway sediments of the Nen River (Qiqihar section), Northeastern China, and transfer along the food chain.}, journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international}, volume = {26}, number = {6}, pages = {5913-5924}, pmid = {30613892}, issn = {1614-7499}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Cadmium/*analysis ; China ; Ecology ; *Environmental Monitoring ; *Food Chain ; Geologic Sediments ; Lead/*analysis ; Metals, Heavy ; Risk Assessment ; Rivers ; Urbanization ; Water Pollutants, Chemical/*analysis ; }, abstract = {The increasing anthropogenic inputs of Pb and Cd into China's Nen River (Qiqihar section) owing to rapid urbanization in the past 50 years may pose ecological risks to the river's aquatic system. To confirm this hypothesis, we determined the Pb and Cd concentrations in the sediments of the Nen River flowing across Qiqihar City by comparing the control group (samplings in the Nen River branch bypassing the city) and bioaccumulation along the food chain. We found significantly higher Pb concentrations in the sediments than in the control group (39.21 mg kg[-1] dry weight [dw] vs. 22.44 mg kg[-1] dw; p < 0.05). However, the difference between the Cd contents of the two groups was nonsignificant (0.33 mg kg[-1] dw vs. 0.30 mg kg[-1] dw) (p = 0.07). Accumulated Pb and Cd in the sediments pose a medium risk to the system of Nen River according to the result of risk assessment code analysis. The increased Pb and Cd levels along the food chain had adverse health effects in the species at the top level of the food chain. For example, the feathers of Corvus frugilegus and Sterna hirundo contained 0.28-2.25 mg kg[-1] dw of Cd. These values are considered potentially toxic to common avian species. The bone Pb level of C. frugilegus ranged from 4.82 to 7.41 mg kg[-1] dw within the increasing Pb range (2-15 mg kg[-1] dw) of common water birds. The inputs of Pb and Cd into the local environment should be reduced for the preservation of aquatic system health.}, }
@article {pmid30613067, year = {2019}, author = {Fujii, Y and Kanno, Y and Koshita, S and Ogawa, T and Kusunose, H and Masu, K and Sakai, T and Yonamine, K and Kawakami, Y and Murabayashi, T and Kozakai, F and Noda, Y and Okada, H and Ito, K}, title = {Predictive Factors for Inaccurate Diagnosis of Swollen Lymph Nodes in Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration.}, journal = {Clinical endoscopy}, volume = {52}, number = {2}, pages = {152-158}, pmid = {30613067}, issn = {2234-2400}, abstract = {BACKGROUND/AIMS: This study aimed to identify the predictive factors for inaccurate endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) diagnosis of swollen lymph nodes without rapid on-site cytopathological evaluation.<br><br>METHODS: Eighty-three consecutive patients who underwent EUS-FNA for abdominal or mediastinal lymph nodes from January 2008 to June 2017 were included from a prospectively maintained EUS-FNA database and retrospectively reviewed. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of EUS-FNA for the detection of neoplastic diseases were calculated. Candidate factors for inaccurate diagnosis (lymph node size and location, needle type, puncture route, number of passes, and causative disease) were evaluated by comparison between accurately diagnosed cases and others.<br><br>RESULTS: The final diagnosis of the punctured lymph node was classified as neoplastic (65 cases: a metastatic lymph node, malignant lymphoma, or Crow-Fukase syndrome) or non-neoplastic (18 cases: a reactive node or amyloidosis). The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 83%, 94%, and 86%, respectively. On multivariate analyses, small size of the lymph node was the sole predictive factor for inaccurate EUS-FNA diagnosis with a significant difference (odds ratios, 19.8; 95% confidence intervals, 3.15-124; p=0.0015).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The lymph node size of <16 mm was the only independent factor associated with inaccurate EUS-FNA diagnosis of swollen lymph nodes.}, }
@article {pmid30598449, year = {2019}, author = {Chen, N and Juric, I and Cosgrove, EJ and Bowman, R and Fitzpatrick, JW and Schoech, SJ and Clark, AG and Coop, G}, title = {Allele frequency dynamics in a pedigreed natural population.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {116}, number = {6}, pages = {2158-2164}, pmid = {30598449}, issn = {1091-6490}, support = {R01 GM108779/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Algorithms ; Animals ; Birds/genetics ; *Gene Frequency ; Genetic Variation ; *Genetics, Population ; Models, Genetic ; *Pedigree ; Population Dynamics ; }, abstract = {A central goal of population genetics is to understand how genetic drift, natural selection, and gene flow shape allele frequencies through time. However, the actual processes underlying these changes-variation in individual survival, reproductive success, and movement-are often difficult to quantify. Fully understanding these processes requires the population pedigree, the set of relationships among all individuals in the population through time. Here, we use extensive pedigree and genomic information from a long-studied natural population of Florida Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) to directly characterize the relative roles of different evolutionary processes in shaping patterns of genetic variation through time. We performed gene dropping simulations to estimate individual genetic contributions to the population and model drift on the known pedigree. We found that observed allele frequency changes are generally well predicted by accounting for the different genetic contributions of founders. Our results show that the genetic contribution of recent immigrants is substantial, with some large allele frequency shifts that otherwise may have been attributed to selection actually due to gene flow. We identified a few SNPs under directional short-term selection after appropriately accounting for gene flow. Using models that account for changes in population size, we partitioned the proportion of variance in allele frequency change through time. Observed allele frequency changes are primarily due to variation in survival and reproductive success, with gene flow making a smaller contribution. This study provides one of the most complete descriptions of short-term evolutionary change in allele frequencies in a natural population to date.}, }
@article {pmid30597322, year = {2019}, author = {Kim, EY and Inoue, N and Koh, DH and Iwata, H}, title = {The aryl hydrocarbon receptor 2 potentially mediates cytochrome P450 1A induction in the jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Ecotoxicology and environmental safety}, volume = {171}, number = {}, pages = {99-111}, doi = {10.1016/j.ecoenv.2018.12.037}, pmid = {30597322}, issn = {1090-2414}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*metabolism ; Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System/*metabolism ; Dioxins/*metabolism ; Female ; Genes, Reporter ; Liver/metabolism ; Male ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; Protein Isoforms/chemistry/genetics/metabolism ; Receptors, Aryl Hydrocarbon/chemistry/genetics/*metabolism ; Signal Transduction ; Transcriptional Activation ; }, abstract = {To understand the role of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) isoforms in avian species, we investigated the functional characteristics of two AHR isoforms (designated as jcAHR1 and jcAHR2) of the jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos). Two amino acid residues corresponding to Ile[324] and Ser[380] (high sensitive type) in chicken AHR1 that are known to determine dioxin sensitivity were Ile[325] and Ala[381] (moderate sensitive type) in jcAHR1 and Val[306] and Ala[362] (low sensitive type) in jcAHR2. The quantitative comparison of the two jcAHR mRNA expression levels in a Tokyo jungle crow population showed that jcAHR2 accounted for 92.4% in the liver, while jcAHR1 accounted for only 7.6%. Both in vitro-expressed jcAHR1 and jcAHR2 proteins exhibited a specific binding to [[3]H]-labeled 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). Transactivation potencies for jcAHR1 and jcAHR2 in in vitro reporter gene assays were measured in jcAHR-expressed cells exposed to 16 dioxins and related compounds (DRCs). Both jcAHR1 and jcAHR2 were activated in a congener- and an isoform-specific manner. EC50 value of TCDD for jcAHR2 (0.61 nM) was six-fold higher than that for jcAHR1 (0.098 nM), but jcAHR2 had higher transactivation efficacy than jcAHR1 in terms of the magnitude of response. The high transactivation efficacy of jcAHR2 in DRCs is in contrast to that of AHR2s in other avian species with low transactivation efficacy. Molecular docking simulations of TCDD with in silico jcAHR1 and jcAHR2 homology models showed that the two sensitivity-decisive amino acids indirectly controlled TCDD-binding modes through their surrounding amino acids. Deletion assays of jcAHR2 revealed that 736-805 amino acid residues in the C-terminal region were critical for its transactivation. We suggest that jcAHR2 plays a critical role in regulating the AHR signaling pathway, at least in its highly expressed organs.}, }
@article {pmid30587749, year = {2018}, author = {Nishimoto, T and Bonkohara, Y and Murakami, H and Noma, D}, title = {[Video-assisted Thoracoscopic Pericardial Fenestration for Pericardial Effusion in a Patient with Crow-Fukase Syndrome].}, journal = {Kyobu geka. The Japanese journal of thoracic surgery}, volume = {71}, number = {13}, pages = {1092-1095}, pmid = {30587749}, issn = {0021-5252}, mesh = {Aged ; Female ; Humans ; POEMS Syndrome/blood/*complications ; Pericardial Effusion/complications/*surgery ; Pericardium/*surgery ; *Thoracic Surgery, Video-Assisted ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/blood ; }, abstract = {A 65-year-old woman was referred to our department with recurrent pericardial effusion. Her serum vascular endothelial growth factor was high, serum M-protein was positive, and nerve conduction velocity of extremities was decreased. Therefore, she was diagnosed with Crow-Fukase (polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M protein, skin changes:POEMS) syndrome, which is characterized by the presence of plasma cell dyscrasia with them. We performed video-thoracoscopic pericardial fenestration with 4×4 cm window. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the pericardial effusion completely disappeared. Video-assisted thoracoscopic pericardial fenestration was a safe and effective treatment for recurrent pericardial effusion.}, }
@article {pmid30586345, year = {2019}, author = {Ballard, TNS and Vorisek, MK and Few, JW}, title = {Impact of Botulinum Toxin Type A Treatment of the Glabella and Crow's Feet on Static Forehead Rhytides.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {45}, number = {1}, pages = {167-169}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000001512}, pmid = {30586345}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Female ; Forehead ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*therapeutic use ; Rhytidoplasty ; *Skin Aging ; }, }
@article {pmid30586006, year = {2019}, author = {Huerta-Franco, MR and Vargas-Luna, M and Somoza, X and Delgadillo-Holtfort, I and Balleza-Ordaz, M and Kashina, S}, title = {Gastric responses to acute psychological stress in climacteric women: a pilot study.}, journal = {Menopause (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {26}, number = {5}, pages = {469-475}, doi = {10.1097/GME.0000000000001274}, pmid = {30586006}, issn = {1530-0374}, mesh = {Abdominal Pain ; Adult ; Anxiety/psychology ; Constipation ; Estradiol/blood ; Female ; Follicle Stimulating Hormone, Human/blood ; Humans ; Hyperphagia ; Menopause/*physiology/*psychology ; Middle Aged ; *Peristalsis ; Pilot Projects ; Psychological Tests ; Stress, Psychological/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Women exhibit reduced ovarian sex hormones during the menopausal period that result in well-known physical and psychological symptoms. However, symptoms related to gastric motility (GM) have not been thoroughly investigated. We hypothesized that stress response gastric motility (SRGM) is lower in postmenopausal (PM) and perimenopausal (PERIM) women than in premenopausal (PREM) women. Estrogenic decline leads to neuroendocrine changes in different areas of the brain. These changes can result in hypothalamic vasomotor symptoms, disorders in eating behaviours, and altered blood pressure, in addition to psychological disorders such as stress, anxiety, depression, and irritability related to alterations in the limbic system.<br><br>METHODS: In this pilot study, 55 PREM, PERIM, and PM women were clinically evaluated using the Nowack stress profile (SP) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). GM was assessed via electrical bioimpedance using two psychological stress tests (Stroop and Raven tests).<br><br>RESULTS: Basal SP and STAI-anxiety test scores were similar among the three groups of women (P&#x200a;>&#x200a;0.05). PERIM women had lower GM in the basal state (P&#x200a;<&#x200a;0.05) than did other women. PREM and PM women had significantly decreased GM during the stress tests (P&#x200a;<&#x200a;0.05). However, PERIM did not exhibit GM changes during stress tests (P&#x200a;>&#x200a;0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Changes in sex hormones during PERIM may affect GM and SRGM.}, }
@article {pmid30580445, year = {2019}, author = {Bessis, D and Petit, A and Battistella, M and Bourrat, E and Girard, C and Pallure, V and Marque, M and Lacour, JP and Vitetta, A and Bieth, &#xc9; and Selves, J and Solassol, J and Vendrell, J}, title = {Naevoid acanthosis nigricans or RAVEN (rounded and velvety epidermal naevus) and mosaic FGFR3 and FGFR2 mutations.}, journal = {The British journal of dermatology}, volume = {180}, number = {4}, pages = {955-957}, doi = {10.1111/bjd.17581}, pmid = {30580445}, issn = {1365-2133}, mesh = {*Acanthosis Nigricans ; Animals ; *Crows ; Mutation ; *Nevus ; Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 3/genetics ; }, }
@article {pmid30578524, year = {2018}, author = {Tsui, I and Song, BJ and Lin, CS and Tsang, SH}, title = {A Practical Approach to Retinal Dystrophies.}, journal = {Advances in experimental medicine and biology}, volume = {1085}, number = {}, pages = {245-259}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-319-95046-4_51}, pmid = {30578524}, issn = {0065-2598}, mesh = {Humans ; Ophthalmoscopy ; Optical Imaging ; Retina ; Retinal Dystrophies/*diagnosis/*therapy ; }, abstract = {Genomic approaches to developing new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in retinal dystrophies are among the most advanced applications of genetics (Tsang SH, Gouras P (1996) Molecular physiology and pathology of the retina. In: Duane TD, Tasman W, Jaeger AE (eds) Duane's clinical opthalmology. Lippincott-Raven, Philadelphia). The notion that "nothing can be done" for patients with retinal dystrophies is no longer true. Electrophysiological testing and autofluorescence imaging help to diagnose and predict the patient's course of disease. Better phenotyping can contribute to better-directed, cost-efficient genotyping. Combining fundoscopy, autofluorescent imaging, and electrophysiological testing is essential in approaching patients with retinal dystrophies. Emerging are new gene-based treatments for these devastating conditions.}, }
@article {pmid30564390, year = {2018}, author = {Lind, J}, title = {What can associative learning do for planning?.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {5}, number = {11}, pages = {180778}, pmid = {30564390}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {There is a new associative learning paradox. The power of associative learning for producing flexible behaviour in non-human animals is downplayed or ignored by researchers in animal cognition, whereas artificial intelligence research shows that associative learning models can beat humans in chess. One phenomenon in which associative learning often is ruled out as an explanation for animal behaviour is flexible planning. However, planning studies have been criticized and questions have been raised regarding both methodological validity and interpretations of results. Due to the power of associative learning and the uncertainty of what causes planning behaviour in non-human animals, I explored what associative learning can do for planning. A previously published sequence learning model which combines Pavlovian and instrumental conditioning was used to simulate two planning studies, namely Mulcahy &amp; Call 2006 'Apes save tools for future use.' Science 312, 1038-1040 and Kabadayi &amp; Osvath 2017 'Ravens parallel great apes in flexible planning for tool-use and bartering.' Science 357, 202-204. Simulations show that behaviour matching current definitions of flexible planning can emerge through associative learning. Through conditioned reinforcement, the learning model gives rise to planning behaviour by learning that a behaviour towards a current stimulus will produce high value food at a later stage; it can make decisions about future states not within current sensory scope. The simulations tracked key patterns both between and within studies. It is concluded that one cannot rule out that these studies of flexible planning in apes and corvids can be completely accounted for by associative learning. Future empirical studies of flexible planning in non-human animals can benefit from theoretical developments within artificial intelligence and animal learning.}, }
@article {pmid30552190, year = {2019}, author = {Kovanen, S and Rossi, M and Pohja-Mykrä, M and Nieminen, T and Raunio-Saarnisto, M and Sauvala, M and Fredriksson-Ahomaa, M and Hänninen, ML and Kivistö, R}, title = {Population Genetics and Characterization of Campylobacter jejuni Isolates from Western Jackdaws and Game Birds in Finland.}, journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology}, volume = {85}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {30552190}, issn = {1098-5336}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/microbiology ; Bacterial Toxins/genetics ; Bacterial Typing Techniques ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/microbiology ; Birds/microbiology ; Campylobacter Infections/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; Campylobacter jejuni/classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Crows/*microbiology ; Disease Reservoirs/microbiology ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics ; Ducks/microbiology ; Finland ; Gastroenteritis ; Genetic Markers ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; *Molecular Epidemiology ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; Phylogeny ; Poultry/*microbiology ; Public Health ; Type VI Secretion Systems/genetics ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; }, abstract = {Poultry are considered a major reservoir and source of human campylobacteriosis, but the roles of environmental reservoirs, including wild birds, have not been assessed in depth. In this study, we isolated and characterized Campylobacter jejuni from western jackdaws (n = 91, 43%), mallard ducks (n = 82, 76%), and pheasants (n = 9, 9%). Most of the western jackdaw and mallard duck C. jejuni isolates represented multilocus sequence typing (MLST) sequence types (STs) that diverged from those previously isolated from human patients and various animal species, whereas all pheasant isolates represented ST-19, a common ST among human patients and other hosts worldwide. Whole-genome MLST revealed that mallard duck ST-2314 and pheasant ST-19 isolates represented bacterial clones that were genetically highly similar to human isolates detected previously. Further analyses revealed that in addition to a divergent ClonalFrame genealogy, certain genomic characteristics of the western jackdaw C. jejuni isolates, e.g., a novel cdtABC gene cluster and the type VI secretion system (T6SS), may affect their host specificity and virulence. Game birds may thus pose a risk for acquiring campylobacteriosis; therefore, hygienic measures during slaughter and meat handling warrant special attention.IMPORTANCE The roles of environmental reservoirs, including wild birds, in the molecular epidemiology of Campylobacter jejuni have not been assessed in depth. Our results showed that game birds may pose a risk for acquiring campylobacteriosis, because they had C. jejuni genomotypes highly similar to human isolates detected previously. Therefore, hygienic measures during slaughter and meat handling warrant special attention. On the contrary, a unique phylogeny was revealed for the western jackdaw isolates, and certain genomic characteristics identified among these isolates are hypothesized to affect their host specificity and virulence. Comparative genomics within sequence types (STs), using whole-genome multilocus sequence typing (wgMLST), and phylogenomics are efficient methods to analyze the genomic relationships of C. jejuni isolates.}, }
@article {pmid30538345, year = {2018}, author = {Yazdanjooie, M and Sadraei, J and Dalimi, A and Pirestani, M}, title = {Isolation of Encephalitozoon intestinalis from crows living in urban parks of Tehran, Iran: an investigation with zoonotic aspect.}, journal = {Journal of parasitic diseases : official organ of the Indian Society for Parasitology}, volume = {42}, number = {4}, pages = {494-499}, pmid = {30538345}, issn = {0971-7196}, abstract = {Microsporidia are eukaryotic, intracellular obligate parasites that widely involve many organisms including insects, fish, birds, and mammals. One of the genera of Microsporidia is Encephalitozoon, which contains several opportunistic pathogens. Since Encephalitozoon spp. are zoonotic and opportunistic pathogens, it is important to find their reservoir hosts; hence, the current study aimed at isolating and identifying Encephalitozoon spp. in the crows by the light microscopy observations and molecular methods. For this purpose, 36 samples were collected by the dropping method; however, due to the low volume of samples, the total samples were collected in a sterile stool container and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to detect Encephalitozoon spp. Accordingly, 300-bp bands, specific to Encephalitozoon spp., were observed and by sequencing E. intestinalis was identified. Crows can be considered as the hosts of E. intestinalis.}, }
@article {pmid30536039, year = {2019}, author = {Ashton, BJ and Ridley, AR and Thornton, A}, title = {Smarter through group living: A response to Smulders.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {47}, number = {4}, pages = {277-279}, pmid = {30536039}, issn = {1543-4508}, support = {DP140101921//Australian Research Council/International ; BB/H021817/2/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; Female ; *Motivation ; }, abstract = {We recently identified a strong, positive relationship between group size and individual cognitive performance, and a strong, positive relationship between female cognitive performance and reproductive success (Ashton, Ridley, Edwards, &amp; Thornton in Nature, 554, 364-367, 2018). An opinion piece by Smulders (Learning &amp; Behavior, https://doi.org/10.3758/s13420-018-0335-0, 2018) raised the interesting notion that these patterns may be underlined by motivational factors. In this commentary, we highlight why none of the available data are consistent with this explanation, but instead support the argument that the demands of group living influence cognitive development, with knock-on consequences for fitness.}, }
@article {pmid30534343, year = {2018}, author = {Klump, BC and Masuda, BM and St Clair, JJH and Rutz, C}, title = {Preliminary observations of tool-processing behaviour in Hawaiian crows Corvus hawaiiensis.}, journal = {Communicative &amp; integrative biology}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {e1509637}, pmid = {30534343}, issn = {1942-0889}, abstract = {Very few animal species habitually make and use foraging tools. We recently discovered that the Hawaiian crow is a highly skilled, natural tool user. Most captive adults in our experiment spontaneously used sticks to access out-of-reach food from a range of extraction tasks, exhibiting a surprising degree of dexterity. Moreover, many birds modified tools before or during deployment, and some even manufactured tools from raw materials. In this invited addendum article, we describe and discuss these observations in more detail. Our preliminary data, and comparisons with the better-studied New Caledonian crow, suggest that the Hawaiian crow has extensive tool-modification and manufacture abilities. To chart the full extent of the species' natural tool-making repertoire, we have started conducting dedicated experiments where subjects are given access to suitable raw materials for tool manufacture, but not ready-to-use tools.}, }
@article {pmid30519433, year = {2018}, author = {Walker, LE and Marzluff, JM and Metz, MC and Wirsing, AJ and Moskal, LM and Stahler, DR and Smith, DW}, title = {Population responses of common ravens to reintroduced gray wolves.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {8}, number = {22}, pages = {11158-11168}, pmid = {30519433}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Top predators have cascading effects throughout the food web, but their impacts on scavenger abundance are largely unknown. Gray wolves (Canis lupus) provide carrion to a suite of scavenger species, including the common raven (Corvus corax). Ravens are wide-ranging and intelligent omnivores that commonly take advantage of anthropogenic food resources. In areas where they overlap with wolves, however, ravens are numerous and ubiquitous scavengers of wolf-acquired carrion. We aimed to determine whether subsidies provided through wolves are a limiting factor for raven populations in general and how the wolf reintroduction to Yellowstone National Park in 1995-1997 affected raven population abundance and distribution on the Yellowstone's Northern Range specifically. We counted ravens throughout Yellowstone's Northern Range in March from 2009 to 2017 in both human-use areas and wolf habitat. We then used statistics related to the local wolf population and the winter weather conditions to model raven abundance during our study period and predict raven abundance on the Northern Range both before and after the wolf reintroduction. In relatively severe winters with greater snowpack, raven abundance increased in areas of human use and decreased in wolf habitat. When wolves were able to acquire more carrion, however, ravens increased in wolf habitat and decreased in areas with anthropogenic resources. Raven populations prior to the wolf reintroduction were likely more variable and heavily dependent on ungulate winter-kill and hunter-provided carcasses. The wolf recovery in Yellowstone helped stabilize raven populations by providing a regular food supply, regardless of winter severity. This stabilization has important implications for effective land management as wolves recolonize the west and global climate patterns change.}, }
@article {pmid30508564, year = {2019}, author = {Kelly, DM and Bisbing, TA and Magnotti, JF}, title = {Use of medial axis for reorientation by the Clark's nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana).}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {158}, number = {}, pages = {192-199}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2018.11.011}, pmid = {30508564}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Cues ; Orientation, Spatial/*physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Space Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Many animals are challenged with the task of reorientation. Considerable research over the years has shown a diversity of species extract geometric information (e.g., distance and direction) from continuous surfaces or boundaries to reorient. How this information is extracted from the environment is less understood. Three encoding strategies that have received the most study are the use of principal axes, medial axis or local geometric cues. We used a modeling approach to investigate which of these three general strategies best fit the spatial search data of a highly-spatial corvid, the Clark's nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana). Individual nutcrackers were trained in a rectangular-shaped arena, and once accurately locating a hidden goal, received non-reinforced tests in an L-shaped arena. The specific shape of this arena allowed us to dissociate among the three general encoding strategies. Furthermore, we reanalyzed existing data from chicks, pigeons and humans using our modeling approach. Overall, we found the most support for the use of the medial axis, although we additionally found that pigeons and humans may have engaged in random guessing. As with our previous studies, we find no support for the use of principal axes.}, }
@article {pmid30502539, year = {2019}, author = {Guzzetti, S and Mancini, F and Caporali, A and Manfredi, L and Daini, R}, title = {The association of cognitive reserve with motor and cognitive functions for different stages of Parkinson's disease.}, journal = {Experimental gerontology}, volume = {115}, number = {}, pages = {79-87}, doi = {10.1016/j.exger.2018.11.020}, pmid = {30502539}, issn = {1873-6815}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cognition ; Cognitive Dysfunction/*etiology/psychology ; *Cognitive Reserve ; Dementia/etiology/psychology ; Executive Function ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/*complications/*psychology ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The cognitive reserve (CR) theory has been proposed to account for the mismatch between the degree of neuropathological changes and clinical outcome in dementias. Recently, it has also been applied to Parkinson's disease (PD) with promising results, but mostly just focusing on separate proxy measures of CR, such as education, working and leisure time activities, instead of adopting a more comprehensive approach. Using the Cognitive Reserve Index questionnaire (CRIq), this study examined the association of CR with motor functions and cognition in patients with medium-low (1-9 years) and medium-high (>9 years) PD duration.<br><br>METHODS: Fifty patients with PD underwent a neurological and a neuropsychological assessment, comprised of: Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale- section III, Mini-Mental State Examination, Clock-Drawing Test, Rey auditory verbal learning test (immediate and delayed recall trials), Digit Span Forward, Corsi Span Forward, Frontal Assessment Battery, Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, WAIS similarities subtest, Phonemic Fluency, Semantic Fluency and CRIq.<br><br>RESULTS: PD patients with a higher CRIq score showed a reduced motor impairment and a better global cognitive performance when compared to PD patients with a lower CRIq score, with an advantage especially observed on executive functions and short-term memory. The CR effect was even enhanced in the case of longer disease duration, as observed when considering the overall neuropsychological tests performance and non-verbal abstract reasoning in particular. The results obtained when considering education, as a single proxy measure of CR, provided no additional findings, nor did they reveal all the effects yielded by the adoption of the CRI score.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our results support the beneficial role of CR against motor and cognitive dysfunctions in PD and suggest that its protective role may be mostly manifested at the later stages of the disease. A theoretical framework able to explain the different impact of CR on Alzheimer Disease and PD is discussed. Finally, our results stressed the importance of using a comprehensive measure of CR instead of focusing on just one of its proxies.}, }
@article {pmid30515968, year = {2019}, author = {Bonneris, E and Gao, Z and Prosser, A and Barfknecht, R}, title = {Selecting appropriate focal species for assessing the risk to birds from newly drilled pesticide-treated winter cereal fields in France.}, journal = {Integrated environmental assessment and management}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {422-436}, pmid = {30515968}, issn = {1551-3793}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Environmental Exposure/*analysis ; France ; Hordeum ; Insecticides/*toxicity ; Neonicotinoids/*toxicity ; Nitro Compounds/*toxicity ; Pesticide Residues/toxicity ; Risk Assessment/*methods ; Seasons ; *Triticum ; }, abstract = {Identifying focal bird species appropriate to the situation in which a plant protection product is used is important for refined risk assessment (EFSA). We analyzed the results of extensive field observations of newly drilled cereal fields in France in autumn over 2 seasons to determine real bird focal species. In 2011, birds were observed before and after drilling on wheat and barley fields drilled with imidacloprid-treated seeds (i.e., "treatment" fields) or seeds treated with compounds other than imidacloprid (i.e., "alternative treatment" fields). Bird abundance, species richness, and diversity were significantly higher in wheat fields than barley fields; these findings led us to monitor only wheat fields in 2012. Statistical analyses did not show a significant effect of the drilling itself or between the treatment fields and the alternative treatment fields on the number and type of bird species. These results led to the pooling of 2011 data on all fields for focal species determination. Similarly, all bird monitoring data generated in 2012 before and after drilling were pooled and analyzed. Rules for determination of candidate focal species detailed in the EFSA () guidance were followed. Carrion crow, wood pigeon, gray partridge, skylark, common starling, and pied wagtail were the bird species most frequently observed on wheat fields. This list of candidate species was processed to determine the most relevant focal species according to the method of Dietzen et al. (); this process resulted in the selection of skylark, gray partridge, wood pigeon, and pied wagtail as focal species to assess risks to birds for pesticides applied during drilling of winter cereals in France (September through November). Integr Environ Assess Manag 2019;00:000-000. © 2018 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology &amp; Chemistry (SETAC).}, }
@article {pmid30513676, year = {2018}, author = {Kaplan, G}, title = {Development of Meaningful Vocal Signals in a Juvenile Territorial Songbird (Gymnorhina tibicen) and the Dilemma of Vocal Taboos Concerning Neighbours and Strangers.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {8}, number = {12}, pages = {}, pmid = {30513676}, issn = {2076-2615}, support = {The Cardigan Fund//University of New England/ ; DP0452557//Australian Research Council/ ; }, abstract = {Young territorial songbirds have calls to learn, especially calls that may be vital for maintaining territory. Territoriality is largely reinforced and communicated by vocal signals. In their natal territory, juvenile magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen) enjoy protection from predators for 8[-]9 months. It is not at all clear, however, when and how a young territorial songbird learns to distinguish the meaning of calls and songs expressed by parents, conspecifics, neighbours, and heterospecifics, or how territorial calls are incorporated into the juvenile's own repertoire. This project investigated acquisition and expression of the vocal repertoire in juvenile magpies and assessed the responses of adults and juveniles to playbacks of neighbour and stranger calls inside their territory. The results reported here identify age of appearance of specific vocalisations and the limits of their expression in juveniles. One new and surprising result was that many types of adult vocalisation were not voiced by juveniles. Playbacks of calls of neighbours and strangers inside the natal territory further established that adults responded strongly but differentially to neighbours versus strangers. By contrast, juveniles needed months before paying any attention to and distinguishing between neighbour and stranger calls and eventually did so only in non-vocal ways (such as referral to adults). These results provide evidence that auditory perception not only includes recognition and memory of neighbour calls but also an assessment of the importance of such calls in the context of territoriality.}, }
@article {pmid30513278, year = {2019}, author = {Andreasen, AK and Iversen, P and Marstrand, L and Siersma, V and Siebner, HR and Sellebjerg, F}, title = {Structural and cognitive correlates of fatigue in progressive multiple sclerosis.}, journal = {Neurological research}, volume = {41}, number = {2}, pages = {168-176}, doi = {10.1080/01616412.2018.1547813}, pmid = {30513278}, issn = {1743-1328}, mesh = {Adult ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnostic imaging/etiology/pathology/physiopathology ; *Fatigue/diagnostic imaging/etiology/pathology/physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Motor Cortex/diagnostic imaging/*pathology/physiopathology ; *Multiple Sclerosis, Chronic Progressive/complications/diagnostic imaging/pathology/physiopathology ; Parietal Lobe/diagnostic imaging/*pathology/physiopathology ; Prefrontal Cortex/diagnostic imaging/*pathology/physiopathology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Fatigue in multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating symptom and experienced by most patients. In recent studies investigating this phenomenon, the majority of patients had a relapsing-remitting disease course.<br><br>METHODS: Patients with progressive MS participating in one of three treatment trials during a period from 2010 to 2014 were included. Fatigue was assessed with the Fatigue Scale for Motor and Cognitive Functions (FSMC) and patients were further examined with a cognitive test battery, including Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), and 3&#xa0;T MRI with subsequent quantitative analyses of 13 cortical regions of interest, deep grey matter and lesion volume.<br><br>RESULTS: Twenty-two patients were enrolled. The thickness of the pre-central gyrus correlated significantly with motor fatigue. We found only a non-significant trend towards a correlation between cognitive fatigue and the thickness of the pre-central gyrus, the parietal inferior supra-marginal gyrus and the opercular part of the inferior frontal gyrus. 36% of participants had impaired processing speed and 9% had normal function on all tests. The scores on the FSMC-cognitive scale were related to performance on SDMT.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In this exploratory study of patients with progressive MS, fatigue was related to processing speed. Motor fatigue was also related to the cortical thickness of the primary motor cortex and there was a trend towards a relationship between cognitive fatigue and the thickness of cortical areas involved in attentional processes. Additional studies are needed to further elucidate the relationship between regional cortical atrophy, cognitive functioning and the perception of fatigue.<br><br>ABBREVIATIONS: FSMC: Motor and Cognitive Functions; MS: Multiple Sclerosis; SDMT: Symbol Digit Modalities Test; MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging; RRMS: Relapsing-Remitting Disease Course; EDSS: Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale; FLAIR: Fluid Attenuated Inversion Recovery; NAWM: Normal-Appearing White Matter; CGM: Cortical Grey Matter; CTh: Cortical Thickness; ROIs: Regions of Interest; Raven: Raven Progressive Matrices; TM A: Trail Making A; TM B: Trail Making B; Rey: Rey Complex Figure; Similarities: WAIS III Similarities; Stroop: Stroop Colour Naming Test; BDI: Becks Depression Inventory II.}, }
@article {pmid30487308, year = {2018}, author = {Cunningham, CX and Johnson, CN and Barmuta, LA and Hollings, T and Woehler, EJ and Jones, ME}, title = {Top carnivore decline has cascading effects on scavengers and carrion persistence.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {285}, number = {1892}, pages = {}, pmid = {30487308}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Cats/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; *Food Chain ; Introduced Species ; Marsupialia/*physiology ; Population Dynamics ; *Predatory Behavior ; Tasmania ; }, abstract = {Top carnivores have suffered widespread global declines, with well-documented effects on mesopredators and herbivores. We know less about how carnivores affect ecosystems through scavenging. Tasmania's top carnivore, the Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii), has suffered severe disease-induced population declines, providing a natural experiment on the role of scavenging in structuring communities. Using remote cameras and experimentally placed carcasses, we show that mesopredators consume more carrion in areas where devils have declined. Carcass consumption by the two native mesopredators was best predicted by competition for carrion, whereas consumption by the invasive mesopredator, the feral cat (Felis catus), was better predicted by the landscape-level abundance of devils, suggesting a relaxed landscape of fear where devils are suppressed. Reduced discovery of carcasses by devils was balanced by the increased discovery by mesopredators. Nonetheless, carcasses persisted approximately 2.6-fold longer where devils have declined, highlighting their importance for rapid carrion removal. The major beneficiary of increased carrion availability was the forest raven (Corvus tasmanicus). Population trends of ravens increased 2.2-fold from 1998 to 2017, the period of devil decline, but this increase occurred Tasmania-wide, making the cause unclear. This case study provides a little-studied potential mechanism for mesopredator release, with broad relevance to the vast areas of the world that have suffered carnivore declines.}, }
@article {pmid30485450, year = {2019}, author = {Yoshida, H and Yamazaki, K and Komiya, A and Aoki, M and Kasamatsu, S and Murata, T and Sayo, T and Cilek, MZ and Okada, Y and Takahashi, Y}, title = {Inhibitory effects of Sanguisorba officinalis root extract on HYBID (KIAA1199)-mediated hyaluronan degradation and skin wrinkling.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {41}, number = {1}, pages = {12-20}, doi = {10.1111/ics.12505}, pmid = {30485450}, issn = {1468-2494}, mesh = {Adult ; Cell Survival/drug effects ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Fibroblasts/drug effects ; HEK293 Cells ; Healthy Volunteers ; Humans ; Hyaluronan Receptors/genetics/metabolism ; Hyaluronic Acid/chemistry/*metabolism ; Japan ; Middle Aged ; Placebos ; Plant Extracts/*pharmacology ; Plant Roots/*chemistry ; RNA, Messenger/metabolism ; Sanguisorba/*chemistry ; Saponins/*pharmacology ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Hyaluronan (HA), an important constituent of extracellular matrix in the skin, has many biological activities such as hydration that contributes to firmness and bounciness of the skin. We have reported that reduction in HA in the papillary dermis and over-expression of HYBID (HYaluronan Binding protein Involved in hyaluronan Depolymerization, alias KIAA1199 or CEMIP), a key molecule for HA degradation in skin fibroblasts, are implicated in facial skin wrinkling in Japanese and Caucasian women. However, little or no information is available for substances which inhibit the HYBID-mediated HA degradation.<br><br>METHODS: Inhibition of Sanguisorba officinalis root extract and ziyuglycoside I, one of the components of Sanguisorba officinalis root extract, to the HYBID-mediated HA degradation was assessed by size-exclusion chromatography of HA depolymerized by stable transfectants of HYBID in HEK293 cells (HYBID/HEK293 cells) or normal human skin fibroblasts (Detroit 551 cells and NHDF-Ad cells). The HYBID mRNA and protein expression was examined by quantitative real-time PCR and immunoblotting in the skin fibroblasts treated with Sanguisorba officinalis root extract, and size distribution of newly produced HA was evaluated by preparing metabolically radiolabelled HA. A double-blind, randomized and placebo-controlled study was carried out in the 21 healthy Japanese women, who were topically treated with the formulation containing Sanguisorba officinalis root extract or the placebo on each side of the face including crow's foot area.<br><br>RESULTS: Sanguisorba officinalis root extract, but not ziyuglycoside I, abolished HYBID-mediated HA degradation by HYBID/HEK293 cells. Sanguisorba officinalis root extract also inhibited HYBID-mediated HA degradation in skin fibroblasts by down-regulating HYBID mRNA and protein expression. Although control untreated skin fibroblasts produced polydispersed HA, the cells treated with Sanguisorba officinalis root extract produced only high-molecular-weight HA. Treatment with Sanguisorba officinalis root extract-formulated lotion significantly improved skin elasticity, and reduced skin wrinkling scores at the outer eye corner compared with the placebo formulation.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Sanguisorba officinalis root extract showed an anti-HYBID-mediated HA degradation activity and anti-wrinkle activity on human facial skin, which is accompanied by the improvement in elasticity. Our study provides the possibility of a new strategy to inhibit HYBID-mediated HA degradation for anti-wrinkle care.}, }
@article {pmid30482600, year = {2018}, author = {Kent, SJW and Morrison, R}, title = {Rural and urban differences in orthognathic surgical patients in the north east of Scotland.}, journal = {The British journal of oral &amp; maxillofacial surgery}, volume = {56}, number = {10}, pages = {931-935}, doi = {10.1016/j.bjoms.2018.10.271}, pmid = {30482600}, issn = {1532-1940}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Facial Asymmetry/epidemiology/pathology/surgery ; Female ; Health Services Accessibility/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Humans ; Male ; Malocclusion/epidemiology/pathology/surgery ; Middle Aged ; Orthognathic Surgical Procedures/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Patient Acceptance of Health Care/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Retrospective Studies ; Rural Population/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Scotland/epidemiology ; Severity of Illness Index ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Urban Population/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {We have previously identified differences in the presentation and treatment of cancer between patients who live in rural compared with urban areas, but have not yet seen differences in those treated by orthognathic surgery. We hypothesised that patients from areas further away from the hospital face higher costs to attend and may not present with minor problems as often as those who live nearby. We therefore retrospectively reviewed all those (n=216) who had presented for orthognathic surgery over a six-year period (May 2011 to May 2017). The severity of malocclusion and facial asymmetry was established by combining measurements of intraoperative movements. Rurality was measured as the distance from home to the hospital at the time of operation. Those with smaller intraoperative movements (less than 7mm combined movement) lived significantly closer to the hospital as the crow flies (mean difference 15.13 miles, 95% CI 0.20 to 30.48, p=0.05) and could travel there more quickly (mean difference 65minutes 95% CI 9.8 to 121.7, p=0.02) than those with larger movements. Our results suggest that patients with small malocclusions and slight facial asymmetry who live further away from the hospital, may be less likely to present for operation than those who live closer. We explain why socioeconomic class is unlikely to confound our results, and suggest potential ways to minimise the effect observed.}, }
@article {pmid30476553, year = {2019}, author = {Rutledge, R and Kular, K and Manchanda, N}, title = {The Mini-Gastric Bypass original technique.}, journal = {International journal of surgery (London, England)}, volume = {61}, number = {}, pages = {38-41}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijsu.2018.10.042}, pmid = {30476553}, issn = {1743-9159}, mesh = {Gastric Bypass/*methods ; Humans ; Jejunum/surgery ; Laparoscopy/*methods ; Obesity, Morbid/*surgery ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Mini-Gastric Bypass (MGB) is becoming more and more popular as shown by the numerous articles published over the past 15 years, supporting the operation as a short and simple procedure with excellent outcomes and low complication rates. There is still confusion amongst surgeons on the technique of the operation. The purpose of this paper is to review and describe the technique of MGB by its originators.<br><br>METHODS: With 20 years of experience of performing the original MGB, the authors present the details of the MGB.<br><br>RESULTS: The MGB consists of a long conduit from below the crow's foot extending up to the left of the angle of His. It is similar to, but importantly, not the same as the pouch of the Sleeve Gastrectomy. MGB has a wide gastro-jejunal anastomosis to an anti-colic loop of jejunum 150-200&#x202f;cm distal to the ligament of Trietz. The power of MGB comes from the fact that it is both a "Non-Obstructive" restrictive procedure and it also has a significant fatty food intolerance component with minimal malabsorption.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In this article we describe the original Rutledge technique of Mini-Gastric Bypass. Notably this is neither a "Single Anastomosis bypass", nor an "Omega Loop Bypass" and also not the "One Anastomosis Bypass of Carbajo". It is a particular technique first created by Rutledge in 1997 and associated with low risk and excellent outcomes. The goal of this manuscript is to help avoid complications and problems seen when the operation deviates from some of the basic principles of general surgery used in the original operation.}, }
@article {pmid30476136, year = {2019}, author = {Nuriddin, A}, title = {Psychiatric Jim Crow: Desegregation at the Crownsville State Hospital, 1948-1970.}, journal = {Journal of the history of medicine and allied sciences}, volume = {74}, number = {1}, pages = {85-106}, doi = {10.1093/jhmas/jry025}, pmid = {30476136}, issn = {1468-4373}, mesh = {Adult ; Black or African American/*history ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Desegregation/*history ; Female ; History, 20th Century ; Hospitals, Psychiatric/*history ; Hospitals, State/*history ; Humans ; Male ; Maryland ; Mental Health Services/*history ; Middle Aged ; }, abstract = {The Crownsville State Hospital, located in Maryland just outside of Annapolis, provides a thought-provoking example of the impact of desegregation in the space of the mental hospital. Using institutional reports, patient records, and oral histories, this article reconstructs the three phases of desegregation at Crownsville. First, as a result of its poor conditions, lack of qualified staff, and its egregious mistreatment of patients, African American community leaders and organizations such as the NAACP called for the desegregation of the care staff of Crownsville in the late 1940s. Second, the introduction of a skilled African American staff created unprecedented and morally complex issues about access to psychiatric therapeutics. Last, in 1963, Health Commissioner Dr. Isadore Tuerk officially desegregated patients in all Maryland state hospitals. Though desegregation brought much needed improvements to Crownsville, these gains were ultimately swamped by deinstitutionalization and the shift towards outpatient psychiatric care. By the 1970s, Crownsville had returned to the poor conditions that existed during segregation.}, }
@article {pmid30473852, year = {2018}, author = {Greggor, AL and McIvor, GE and Clayton, NS and Thornton, A}, title = {Wild jackdaws are wary of objects that violate expectations of animacy.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {5}, number = {10}, pages = {181070}, pmid = {30473852}, issn = {2054-5703}, support = {BB/H021817/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {Nature is composed of self-propelled, animate agents and inanimate objects. Laboratory studies have shown that human infants and a few species discriminate between animate and inanimate objects. This ability is assumed to have evolved to support social cognition and filial imprinting, but its ecological role for wild animals has never been examined. An alternative, functional explanation is that discriminating stimuli based on their potential for animacy helps animals distinguish between harmless and threatening stimuli. Using remote-controlled experimental stimulus presentations, we tested if wild jackdaws (Corvus monedula) respond fearfully to stimuli that violate expectations for movement. Breeding pairs (N = 27) were presented at their nests with moving and non-moving models of ecologically relevant stimuli (birds, snakes and sticks) that differed in threat level and propensity for independent motion. Jackdaws were startled by movement regardless of stimulus type and produced more alarm calls when faced with animate objects. However, they delayed longest in entering their nest-box after encountering a stimulus that should not move independently, suggesting they recognized the movement as unexpected. How jackdaws develop expectations about object movement is not clear, but our results suggest that discriminating between animate and inanimate stimuli may trigger information gathering about potential threats.}, }
@article {pmid30469552, year = {2018}, author = {Zhu, XY and Gupta, SK and Sun, XC and He, C and Li, GX and Jiang, JH and Liu, XP and Lu, MH and Chen, YF}, title = {Z2 topological edge state in honeycomb lattice of coupled resonant optical waveguides with a flat band.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {26}, number = {19}, pages = {24307-24317}, doi = {10.1364/OE.26.024307}, pmid = {30469552}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {Two-dimensional (2D) coupled resonant optical waveguide (CROW), exhibiting topological edge states, provides an efficient platform for designing integrated topological photonic devices. In this paper, we propose an experimentally feasible design of 2D honeycomb CROW photonic structure. The characteristic optical system possesses two-fold and three-fold Dirac points at different positions in the Brillouin zone. The effective gauge fields implemented by the intrinsic pseudo-spin-orbit interaction open up topologically nontrivial bandgaps through the Dirac points. Spatial lattice geometries allow destructive wave interference, leading to a dispersionless, near-flat energy band in the vicinity of the three-fold Dirac point in the telecommunication frequency regime. This nontrivial structure with a near-flat band yields topologically protected edge states. These characteristics underpin the fundamental importance as well as the potential applications in various optical devices. Based on the honeycomb CROW lattice, we design the shape-independent topological cavity and the beam splitter, which demonstrate the relevance for a wide range of photonic applications.}, }
@article {pmid30457220, year = {2019}, author = {Amici, F}, title = {An Evolutionary Approach to the Study of Collaborative Remembering?.}, journal = {Topics in cognitive science}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {811-816}, doi = {10.1111/tops.12398}, pmid = {30457220}, issn = {1756-8765}, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological/physiology ; Biological Evolution ; *Cooperative Behavior ; Humans ; Knowledge ; Memory/*physiology ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; Social Behavior ; Social Learning/physiology ; }, abstract = {Hope and Gabbert (2008) and Jay and colleagues (in press) show us that collaborative remembering, in certain contexts, may result in incomplete and less accurate memories. Here, I will discuss the evolutionary origins of this behavior, linking it to phenomena such as social contagion, conformity, and social learning, which are highly adaptive and widespread across non-human taxa.}, }
@article {pmid30444843, year = {2018}, author = {Mattingly, JK and Castellanos, I and Moberly, AC}, title = {Nonverbal Reasoning as a Contributor to Sentence Recognition Outcomes in Adults With Cochlear Implants.}, journal = {Otology &amp; neurotology : official publication of the American Otological Society, American Neurotology Society [and] European Academy of Otology and Neurotology}, volume = {39}, number = {10}, pages = {e956-e963}, pmid = {30444843}, issn = {1537-4505}, support = {K23 DC015539/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Cochlear Implantation ; *Cochlear Implants ; Cognition/*physiology ; Deafness/physiopathology/surgery ; Female ; Hearing Tests ; Humans ; Language ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Speech ; Speech Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {HYPOTHESIS: Significant variability in speech recognition persists among postlingually deafened adults with cochlear implants (CIs). We hypothesize that scores of nonverbal reasoning predict sentence recognition in adult CI users.<br><br>BACKGROUND: Cognitive functions contribute to speech recognition outcomes in adults with hearing loss. These functions may be particularly important for CI users who must interpret highly degraded speech signals through their devices. This study used a visual measure of reasoning (the ability to solve novel problems), the Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM), to predict sentence recognition in CI users.<br><br>METHODS: Participants were 39 postlingually deafened adults with CIs and 43 age-matched normal-hearing (NH) controls. CI users were assessed for recognition of words in sentences in quiet, and NH controls listened to eight-channel vocoded versions to simulate the degraded signal delivered by a CI. A computerized visual task of the RPM, requiring participants to identify the correct missing piece in a 3&#xd7;3 matrix of geometric designs, was also performed. Particular items from the RPM were examined for their associations with sentence recognition abilities, and a subset of items on the RPM was tested for the ability to predict degraded sentence recognition in the NH controls.<br><br>RESULTS: The overall number of items answered correctly on the 48-item RPM significantly correlated with sentence recognition in CI users (r&#x200a;=&#x200a;0.35-0.47) and NH controls (r&#x200a;=&#x200a;0.36-0.57). An abbreviated 12-item version of the RPM was created and performance also correlated with sentence recognition in CI users (r&#x200a;=&#x200a;0.40-0.48) and NH controls (r&#x200a;=&#x200a;0.49-0.56).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Nonverbal reasoning skills correlated with sentence recognition in both CI and NH subjects. Our findings provide further converging evidence that cognitive factors contribute to speech processing by adult CI users and can help explain variability in outcomes. Our abbreviated version of the RPM may serve as a clinically meaningful assessment for predicting sentence recognition outcomes in CI users.}, }
@article {pmid30442433, year = {2019}, author = {Falcionelli, N and Sernani, P and Brugués, A and Mekuria, DN and Calvaresi, D and Schumacher, M and Dragoni, AF and Bromuri, S}, title = {Indexing the Event Calculus: Towards practical human-readable Personal Health Systems.}, journal = {Artificial intelligence in medicine}, volume = {96}, number = {}, pages = {154-166}, doi = {10.1016/j.artmed.2018.10.003}, pmid = {30442433}, issn = {1873-2860}, mesh = {Chronic Disease ; *Decision Trees ; Humans ; Information Management/*organization &amp; administration ; Monitoring, Ambulatory/instrumentation/*methods ; Noncommunicable Diseases ; *Wearable Electronic Devices ; }, abstract = {Personal Health Systems (PHS) are mobile solutions tailored to monitoring patients affected by chronic non communicable diseases. In general, a patient affected by a chronic disease can generate large amounts of events: for example, in Type 1 Diabetic patients generate several glucose events per day, ranging from at least 6 events per day (under normal monitoring) to 288 per day when wearing a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) that samples the blood every 5 minutes for several days. Just by itself, without considering other physiological parameters, it would be impossible for medical doctors to individually and accurately follow every patient, highlighting the need of simple approaches towards querying physiological time series. Achieving this with current technology is not an easy task, as on one hand it cannot be expected that medical doctors have the technical knowledge to query databases and on the other hand these time series include thousands of events, which requires to re-think the way data is indexed. Anyhow, handling data streams efficiently is not enough. Domain experts' knowledge must be explicitly included into PHSs in a way that it can be easily readed and modified by medical staffs. Logic programming represents the perfect programming paradygm to accomplish this task. In this work, an Event Calculus-based reasoning framework to standardize and express domain-knowledge in the form of monitoring rules is suggested, and applied to three different use cases. However, if online monitoring has to be achieved, the reasoning performance must improve dramatically. For this reason, three promising mechanisms to index the Event Calculus Knowledge Base are proposed. All of them are based on different types of tree indexing structures: k-d trees, interval trees and red-black trees. The paper then compares and analyzes the performance of the three indexing techniques, by computing the time needed to check different type of rules (and eventually generating alerts), when the number of recorded events (e.g. values of physiological parameters) increases. The results show that customized jREC performs much better when the event average inter-arrival time is little compared to the checked rule time-window. Instead, where the events are more sparse, the use of k-d trees with standard EC is advisable. Finally, the Multi-Agent paradigm helps to wrap the various components of the system: the reasoning engines represent the agent minds, and the sensors are its body. The said agents have been developed in MAGPIE, a mobile event based Java agent platform.}, }
@article {pmid30441093, year = {2018}, author = {Zhou, Y and Xu, T and Li, S and Li, S}, title = {Confusion State Induction and EEG-based Detection in Learning.}, journal = {Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Annual International Conference}, volume = {2018}, number = {}, pages = {3290-3293}, doi = {10.1109/EMBC.2018.8512943}, pmid = {30441093}, issn = {2694-0604}, mesh = {Brain-Computer Interfaces ; *Electroencephalography ; Emotions ; Machine Learning ; }, abstract = {Confusion, as an affective state, has been proved beneficial for learning, although this emotion is always mentioned as negative affect. Confusion causes the learner to solve the problem and overcome difficulties in order to restore the cognitive equilibrium. Once the confusion is successfully resolved, a deeper learning is generated. Therefore, quantifying and visualizing the confusion that occurs in learning as well as intervening has gained great interest by researchers. Among these researches, triggering confusion precisely and detecting it is the critical step and underlies other studies. In this paper, we explored the induction of confusion states and the feasibility of detecting confusion using EEG as a first step towards an EEG-based Brain Computer Interface for monitoring the confusion and intervening in the learning. 16 participants EEG data were recorded and used. Our experiment design to induce confusion was based on tests of Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. Each confusing and not-confusing test item was presented during 15 seconds and the raw EEG data was collected via Emotiv headset. To detect the confusion emotion in learning, we propose an end-to-end EEG analysis method. End-to-end classification of Deep Learning in Machine Learning has revolutionized computer vision, which has gained interest to adopt this method to EEG analysis. The result of this preliminary study was promising, which showed a 71.36% accuracy in classifying users' confused and unconfused states when they are inferring the rules in the tests.}, }
@article {pmid30440759, year = {2018}, author = {Li, X and Kesavadas, T}, title = {Surgical Robot with Environment Reconstruction and Force Feedback.}, journal = {Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Annual International Conference}, volume = {2018}, number = {}, pages = {1861-1866}, doi = {10.1109/EMBC.2018.8512695}, pmid = {30440759}, issn = {2694-0604}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Feedback ; Humans ; *Robotics ; Surgeons ; User-Computer Interface ; }, abstract = {We present a new surgical robot hardware-in-the-loop simulator, with 3D surgical field reconstruction in RGB-D sensor range, which allows tool-tissue interactions to be presented as haptic feedback and thus provides the situation awareness of unwanted collision. First, the point cloud of the complete surgical environment is constructed from multiple frames of sensor data to avoid the occlusion issue. Then the user selects a region of interest where the robot's tool must avoid (also called forbidden region). The real-time haptic force rendering algorithm computes the interaction force which is then communicated to a haptic device at 1 kHz, to assist the surgeon to perform safe actions. The robot used is a RAVEN II system, RGB-D sensor is used to scan the environment, and two Omni haptic devices provide the 3-DoF haptic force. A registration pipeline is presented to complete the surgical environment point cloud mapping in preoperative surgery planning phase, which improves quality of haptic rendering in the presence of occlusion. Furthermore, we propose a feasible and fast algorithm which extends the existing work on the proxy-based method for haptic rendering between a Haptic Interaction Point (HIP) and a point cloud. The proposed methodology has the potential of improving the safety of surgical robots.}, }
@article {pmid30427210, year = {2019}, author = {Moore, RD and Sicard, V and Pindus, D and Raine, LB and Drollette, ES and Scudder, MR and Decker, S and Ellemberg, D and Hillman, CH}, title = {A targeted neuropsychological examination of children with a history of sport-related concussion.}, journal = {Brain injury}, volume = {33}, number = {3}, pages = {291-298}, doi = {10.1080/02699052.2018.1546408}, pmid = {30427210}, issn = {1362-301X}, support = {R01 HD055352/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Age of Onset ; Athletic Injuries/diagnosis/*psychology ; Brain Concussion/diagnosis/*psychology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/etiology/psychology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mathematics ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Stroop Test ; Trail Making Test ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Experimental research suggests that sport-related concussion can lead to persistent alterations in children's neurophysiology and cognition. However, the search for neuropsychological tests with a similar ability to detect long-term deficits continues.<br><br>PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: The current study assessed whether a target battery of neuropsychological measures of higher cognition and academic achievement would detect lingering deficits in children 2 years after injury.<br><br>RESEARCH DESIGN: Cross-sectional.<br><br>METHODS AND PROCEDURE: A total of 32 pre-adolescent children (16 concussion history, 16 control) completed a targeted battery of neuropsychological and academic tests.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOMES AND RESULTS: Children with a history of concussion exhibited selective deficits during the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, Comprehensive Trail-Making Test, and the mathematics sub-section of the WRAT-3. Deficit magnitude was significantly related to age at injury, but not time since injury.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The current results suggest that neuropsychological measures of higher cognition and academic achievement may be sensitive to lingering deficits, and that children injured earlier in life may exhibit worse neuropsychological and academic performance.}, }
@article {pmid30410111, year = {2018}, author = {Laumer, IB and Call, J and Bugnyar, T and Auersperg, AMI}, title = {Spontaneous innovation of hook-bending and unbending in orangutans (Pongo abelii).}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {16518}, pmid = {30410111}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {P 29075/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; P 29084/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Female ; Locomotion ; Male ; Pongo abelii/*physiology ; Stereotyped Behavior/*physiology ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Betty the crow astonished the scientific world as she spontaneously crafted hook-tools from straight wire in order to lift a basket out of vertical tubes. Recently it was suggested that this species' solution was strongly influenced by predispositions from behavioural routines from habitual hook-tool manufacture. Nevertheless, the task became a paradigm to investigate tool innovation. Considering that young humans had surprising difficulties with the task, it was yet unclear whether the innovation of a hooked tool would be feasible to primates that lacked habitual hook making. We thus tested five captive orangutans in a hook bending and unbending task. Orangutans are habitually tool-using primates that have been reported to use but not craft hooked tools for locomotion in the wild. Two orangutans spontaneously innovated hook tools and four unbent the wire from their first trial on. Pre-experience with ready-made hooks had some effect but did not lead to continuous success. Further subjects improved the hook-design feature when the task required the subjects to bent the hook at a steeper angle. Our results indicate that the ability to represent and manufacture tools according to a current need does not require stereotyped behavioural routines, but can indeed arise innovatively. Furthermore, the present study shows that the capacity for hook tool innovation is not limited to large brained birds within non-human animals.}, }
@article {pmid30405485, year = {2018}, author = {Bobrowicz, K and Osvath, M}, title = {Cats Parallel Great Apes and Corvids in Motor Self-Regulation - Not Brain but Material Size Matters.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {1995}, pmid = {30405485}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {The inhibition of unproductive motor movements is regarded as a fundamental cognitive mechanism. Recently it has been shown that species with large absolute brain size or high numbers of pallial neurons, like great apes and corvids, show the highest performance on a task purportedly measuring this mechanism: the cylinder task. In this task the subject must detour a perpendicularly oriented transparent cylinder to reach a reward through a side opening, instead of directly reaching for it and bumping into the front, which is regarded as an inhibitory failure. Here we test domestic cats, for the first time, and show that they can reach the same levels as great apes and corvids on this task, despite having much smaller brains. We tested subjects with apparatuses that varied in size (cylinder length and diameter) and material (glass or plastic), and found that subjects performed best on the large cylinders. As numbers of successes decreased significantly when the cylinders were smaller, we conducted additionally two experiments to discern which properties (length of the transparent surface, goal distance from the surface, size of the side opening) affects performance. We conclude that sensorimotor requirements, which differ between species, may have large impact on the results in such seemingly simple and apparently comparable tests. However, we also conclude that cats have comparably high levels of motor self-regulation, despite the differences between tests.}, }
@article {pmid30405209, year = {2019}, author = {Shirley, MK and Arthurs, OJ and Seunarine, KK and Cole, TJ and Eaton, S and Williams, JE and Clark, CA and Wells, JCK}, title = {Metabolic rate of major organs and tissues in young adult South Asian women.}, journal = {European journal of clinical nutrition}, volume = {73}, number = {8}, pages = {1164-1171}, pmid = {30405209}, issn = {1476-5640}, support = {MR/R010692/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; MR/M012069/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; NIHR-CS-012-002//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/International ; MR/M012069/1//Medical Research Council (MRC)/International ; CDF-2017-10-037/DH_/Department of Health/United Kingdom ; NIHR-CS-012-002/DH_/Department of Health/United Kingdom ; 8888//Wenner-Gren Foundation/International ; }, mesh = {Absorptiometry, Photon/methods ; Adult ; Asia, Western ; *Basal Metabolism ; Body Mass Index ; Brain/*physiology ; Calorimetry, Indirect/methods ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Heart/*physiology ; Humans ; Kidney/*physiology ; Liver/*physiology ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods ; Muscle, Skeletal/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Major organ-specific and tissue-specific metabolic rate (Ki) values were initially estimated using in vivo methods, and values reported by Elia (Energy metabolism: tissue determinants and cellular corollaries, Raven Press, New York, 1992) were subsequently supported by statistical analysis. However, the majority of work to date on this topic has addressed individuals of European descent, whereas population variability in resting energy metabolism has been reported. We aimed to estimate Ki values in South Asian females.<br><br>SUBJECTS/METHODS: This cross-sectional study recruited 70 healthy young women of South Asian ancestry. Brain and organs were measured using magnetic resonance imaging, skeletal muscle mass by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, fat mass by the 4-component model, and whole-body resting energy expenditure by indirect calorimetry. Organ and tissue Ki values were estimated indirectly using regression analysis through the origin. Preliminary analysis suggested overestimation of heart mass, hence the modeling was repeated with a literature-based 22.5% heart mass reduction.<br><br>RESULTS: The pattern of derived Ki values across organs and tissues matched that previously estimated in vivo, but the values were systematically lower. However, adjusting for the overestimation of heart mass markedly improved the agreement.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our results support variability in Ki values among organs and tissues, where some are more metabolically "expensive" than others. Initial findings suggesting lower organ/tissue Ki values in South Asian women were likely influenced by heart mass estimation bias. The question of potential ethnic variability in organ-specific and tissue-specific energy metabolism requires further investigation.}, }
@article {pmid30402778, year = {2019}, author = {Sepkoski, D}, title = {The Unfinished Synthesis?: Paleontology and Evolutionary Biology in the 20th Century.}, journal = {Journal of the history of biology}, volume = {52}, number = {4}, pages = {687-703}, pmid = {30402778}, issn = {1573-0387}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Genetics, Population/*history ; History, 20th Century ; Paleontology/*history ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {In the received view of the history of the Modern Evolutionary Synthesis, paleontology was given a prominent role in evolutionary biology thanks to the significant influence of paleontologist George Gaylord Simpson on both the institutional and conceptual development of the Synthesis. Simpson's 1944 Tempo and Mode in Evolution is considered a classic of Synthesis-era biology, and Simpson often remarked on the influence of other major Synthesis figures - such as Ernst Mayr and Theodosius Dobzhansky - on his developing thought. Why, then, did paleontologists of the 1970s and 1980s - Stephen Jay Gould, Niles Eldredge, David M. Raup, Steven Stanley, and others - so frequently complain that paleontology remained marginalized within evolutionary biology? This essay considers three linked questions: first, were paleontologists genuinely welcomed into the Synthetic project during its initial stages? Second, was the initial promise of the role for paleontology realized during the decades between 1950 and 1980, when the Synthesis supposedly "hardened" to an "orthodoxy"? And third, did the period of organized dissent and opposition to this orthodoxy by paleontologists during the 1970s and 1980s bring about a long-delayed completion to the Modern Synthesis, or rather does it highlight the wider failure of any such unified Darwinian evolutionary consensus?}, }
@article {pmid30402671, year = {2019}, author = {Kumar, SN and Fred, AL and Varghese, PS}, title = {Suspicious Lesion Segmentation on Brain, Mammograms and Breast MR Images Using New Optimized Spatial Feature Based Super-Pixel Fuzzy C-Means Clustering.}, journal = {Journal of digital imaging}, volume = {32}, number = {2}, pages = {322-335}, pmid = {30402671}, issn = {1618-727X}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Brain Diseases/*diagnostic imaging ; Breast Neoplasms/*diagnostic imaging ; Fuzzy Logic ; Humans ; Image Enhancement/methods ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; *Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; *Mammography ; Pattern Recognition, Automated/*methods ; }, abstract = {Suspicious lesion or organ segmentation is a challenging task to be solved in most of the medical image analyses, medical diagnoses and computer diagnosis systems. Nevertheless, various image segmentation methods were proposed in the previous studies with varying success levels. But, the image segmentation problems such as lack of versatility, low robustness, high complexity and low accuracy in up-to-date image segmentation practices still remain unsolved. Fuzzy c-means clustering (FCM) methods are very well suited for segmenting the regions. The noise-free images are effectively segmented using the traditional FCM method. However, the segmentation result generated is highly sensitive to noise due to the negligence of spatial information. To solve this issue, super-pixel-based FCM (SPOFCM) is implemented in this paper, in which the influence of spatially neighbouring and similar super-pixels is incorporated. Also, a crow search algorithm is adopted for optimizing the influential degree; thereby, the segmentation performance is improved. In clinical applications, the SPOFCM feasibility is verified using the multi-spectral MRIs, mammograms and actual single spectrum on performing tumour segmentation tests for SPOFCM. Ultimately, the competitive, renowned segmentation techniques such as k-means, entropy thresholding (ET), FCM, FCM with spatial constraints (FCM_S) and kernel FCM (KFCM) are used to compare the results of proposed SPOFCM. Experimental results on multi-spectral MRIs and actual single-spectrum mammograms indicate that the proposed algorithm can provide a better performance for suspicious lesion or organ segmentation in computer-assisted clinical applications.}, }
@article {pmid30402057, year = {2018}, author = {Rodríguez, B and Rodríguez, A and Siverio, F and Siverio, M and , }, title = {Factors affecting the spatial distribution and breeding habitat of an insular cliff-nesting raptor community.}, journal = {Current zoology}, volume = {64}, number = {2}, pages = {173-181}, pmid = {30402057}, issn = {1674-5507}, abstract = {The specific spatial distribution and habitat association-strongly influenced by environmental factors or competitive interactions-are major issues in ecology and conservation. We located and georeferenced nesting sites of five cliff-nesting raptors (Egyptian vulture Neophron percnopterus [a locally extinct species], common buzzard Buteo buteo, osprey Pandion haliaetus, common kestrel Falco tinnunculus, Barbary falcon Falco peregrinus pelegrinoides), and common raven Corvus corax on one of the most biodiverse hotspot within the Canary Islands (Teno, Tenerife). We used generalized linear models to evaluate the factors affecting abundance, richness, and intra- and interspecific interactions. Raptor abundance increased with slope, shrub-covered area, and habitat diversity, and decreased with altitude, and forested and grassed areas. Richness increased with slope and decreased with altitude. Threatened species (osprey, Barbary falcon, and raven) occupied cliffs farther away from houses and roads, and more rugged areas than the non-threatened species. The models suggested that the probability of cliff occupation by buzzards, falcons, and ravens depended only on inter-specific interactions. Buzzard occupation increased with the distance to the nearest raven and kestrel nests, whereas falcons and ravens seek proximity to each other. Teno holds between 75% and 100% of the insular breeding populations of the most endangered species (osprey and raven), indicating the high conservation value of this area. Our study suggests that the preservation of rugged terrains and areas of low human pressure are key factors for raptor conservation and provide basic knowledge on the community structure and habitat associations to develop appropriated management actions for these fragile island populations.}, }
@article {pmid30397596, year = {2018}, author = {Bache, WK and DeLisi, LE}, title = {The Sex Chromosome Hypothesis of Schizophrenia: Alive, Dead, or Forgotten? A Commentary and Review.}, journal = {Molecular neuropsychiatry}, volume = {4}, number = {2}, pages = {83-89}, pmid = {30397596}, issn = {2296-9209}, abstract = {The X chromosome has long been an intriguing site for harboring genes that have importance in brain development and function. It has received the most attention for having specific genes underlying the X-linked inherited intellectual disabilities, but has also been associated with schizophrenia in a number of early studies. An X chromosome hypothesis for a genetic predisposition for schizophrenia initially came from the X chromosome anomaly population data showing an excess of schizophrenia in Klinefelter's (XXY) males and triple X (XXX) females. Crow and colleagues later expanded the X chromosome hypothesis to include the possibility of a locus on the Y chromosome and, specifically, genes on X that escaped inactivation and are X-Y homologous loci. Some new information about possible risk loci on these chromosomes has come from the current large genetic consortia genome-wide association studies, suggesting that perhaps this hypothesis needs to be revisited for some schizophrenias. The following commentary reviews the early and more recent literature supporting or refuting this dormant hypothesis and emphasizes the possible candidate genes still of interest that could be explored in further studies.}, }
@article {pmid30397447, year = {2018}, author = {Yamasaki, T and Aoki, S and Tokita, M}, title = {Allometry and integration do not strongly constrain beak shape evolution in large-billed (Corvus macrorhynchos) and carrion crows (Corvus corone).}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {8}, number = {20}, pages = {10057-10066}, pmid = {30397447}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {A recent geometric morphometric study on certain landbird lineages revealed that a major part of the variation in beak shape is accounted for by skull size and cranial shape. The study interpreted this result as evidence for the presence of strong evolutionary constraints that severely prevented beak shape from evolving substantially away from predictions of allometry and morphological integration. However, there is another overlooked but similarly plausible explanation for this result: The reason why beak shape does not depart much from predictions might simply be that selection pressures favoring such changes in shape are themselves rare. Here, to evaluate the intensity of evolutionary constraints on avian beak shape more appropriately, we selected large-billed (Corvus macrorhynchos) and carrion crows (Corvus corone) as study objects. These landbird species seem to experience selection pressures favoring a departure from an allometric trajectory. A landmark-based geometric morphometric approach using three-dimensional reconstructions of CT scan images revealed that only 45.4% of the total shape variation was explained by allometry and beak-braincase integration. This suggests that when a selection pressure acts in a different direction to allometry and integration, avian beak shape can react to it and evolve flexibly. As traditionally considered, evolutionary constraints on avian beak shape might not be all that strong.}, }
@article {pmid30391908, year = {2018}, author = {Nishisaka-Nonaka, R and Mawatari, K and Yamamoto, T and Kojima, M and Shimohata, T and Uebanso, T and Nakahashi, M and Emoto, T and Akutagawa, M and Kinouchi, Y and Wada, T and Okamoto, M and Ito, H and Yoshida, KI and Daidoji, T and Nakaya, T and Takahashi, A}, title = {Irradiation by ultraviolet light-emitting diodes inactivates influenza a viruses by inhibiting replication and transcription of viral RNA in host cells.}, journal = {Journal of photochemistry and photobiology. B, Biology}, volume = {189}, number = {}, pages = {193-200}, doi = {10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2018.10.017}, pmid = {30391908}, issn = {1873-2682}, mesh = {Animals ; Dogs ; Humans ; Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype ; Influenza A virus/*radiation effects ; Madin Darby Canine Kidney Cells/virology ; Orthomyxoviridae Infections ; RNA, Viral/biosynthesis/genetics ; Transcription, Genetic/radiation effects ; *Ultraviolet Rays ; Virus Inactivation/*radiation effects ; Virus Replication/radiation effects ; }, abstract = {Influenza A viruses (IAVs) pose a serious global threat to humans and their livestock, especially poultry and pigs. This study aimed to investigate how to inactivate IAVs by using different ultraviolet-light-emitting diodes (UV-LEDs). We developed sterilization equipment with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) those peak wavelengths were 365 nm (UVA-LED), 310 nm (UVB-LED), and 280 nm (UVC-LED). These UV-LED irradiations decreased dose fluence-dependent plaque-forming units of IAV H1N1 subtype (A/Puerto Rico/8/1934) infected Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells, but the inactivation efficiency of UVA-LED was significantly lower than UVB- and UVC-LED. UV-LED irradiations did not alter hemagglutination titer, but decreased accumulation of intracellular total viral RNA in infected MDCK cells was observed. Additionally, UV-LED irradiations suppressed the accumulation of intracellular mRNA (messenger RNA), vRNA (viral RNA), and cRNA (complementary RNA), as measured by strand-specific RT-PCR. These results suggest that UV-LEDs inhibit host cell replication and transcription of viral RNA. Both UVB- and UVC-LED irradiation decreased focus-forming unit (FFU) of H5N1 subtype (A/Crow/Kyoto/53/2004), a highly pathogenic avian IAV (HPAI), in infected MDCK cells, and the amount of FFU were lower than the H1N1 subtype. From these results, it appears that IAVs may have different sensitivity among the subtypes, and UVB- and UVC-LED may be suitable for HPAI virus inactivation.}, }
@article {pmid30390453, year = {2019}, author = {López-Perea, JJ and Camarero, PR and Sánchez-Barbudo, IS and Mateo, R}, title = {Urbanization and cattle density are determinants in the exposure to anticoagulant rodenticides of non-target wildlife.}, journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)}, volume = {244}, number = {}, pages = {801-808}, doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2018.10.101}, pmid = {30390453}, issn = {1873-6424}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/*blood ; Anticoagulants/*blood ; Cattle ; Ecosystem ; Environmental Monitoring/*methods ; Falconiformes/*blood ; Foxes/*blood ; Liver/chemistry ; Mustelidae/*blood ; Rodenticides/*blood ; Spain ; Urbanization ; }, abstract = {The persistence and toxicity of second generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) in animal tissues make these compounds dangerous by biomagnification in predatory species. Here we studied the levels of SGARs in non-target species of wildlife and the environmental factors that influence such exposure. Liver samples of terrestrial vertebrates (n = 244) found dead between 2007 and 2016 in the region of Aragón (NE Spain) were analysed. The presence of SGARs was statistically analysed with binary or ordinal logistic models to study the effect of habitat characteristics including human population density, percentage of urban surface, livestock densities and surface of different types of crops. SGARs residues were detected in 83 (34%) of the animals and levels >200 ng/g were found in common raven (67%), red fox (50%), red kite (38%), Eurasian eagle-owl (25%), stone marten (23%), Eurasian buzzard (17%), northern marsh harrier (17%), and Eurasian badger (14%). The spatial analysis revealed that the presence of SGARs residues in wildlife was more associated with the use of these products as biocides in urban areas and cattle farms rather than as plant protection products in agricultural fields. This information permits to identify potential habitats where SGARs may pose a risk for predatory birds and mammals.}, }
@article {pmid30384509, year = {2018}, author = {Ruiz-Rodríguez, M and Martín-Vivaldi, M and Martínez-Bueno, M and Soler, JJ}, title = {Correction: Ruiz-Rodríguez et al. Gut Microbiota of Great Spotted Cuckoo Nestlings Is a Mixture of Those of Their Foster Magpie Siblings and of Cuckoo Adults. Genes 2018, 9, 381.}, journal = {Genes}, volume = {9}, number = {11}, pages = {}, pmid = {30384509}, issn = {2073-4425}, abstract = {The authors wish to make the following changes in their paper [...].}, }
@article {pmid30367386, year = {2019}, author = {Pahor, A and Stavropoulos, T and Jaeggi, SM and Seitz, AR}, title = {Validation of a matrix reasoning task for mobile devices.}, journal = {Behavior research methods}, volume = {51}, number = {5}, pages = {2256-2267}, pmid = {30367386}, issn = {1554-3528}, support = {K02 AG054665/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH111742/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; *Cell Phone ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Problem Solving ; Psychometrics ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Many cognitive tasks have been adapted for tablet-based testing, but tests to assess nonverbal reasoning ability, as measured by matrix-type problems that are suited to repeated testing, have yet to be adapted for and validated on mobile platforms. Drawing on previous research, we developed the University of California Matrix Reasoning Task (UCMRT)-a short, user-friendly measure of abstract problem solving with three alternate forms that works on tablets and other mobile devices and that is targeted at a high-ability population frequently used in the literature (i.e., college students). To test the psychometric properties of UCMRT, a large sample of healthy young adults completed parallel forms of the test, and a subsample also completed Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices and a math test; furthermore, we collected college records of academic ability and achievement. These data show that UCMRT is reliable and has adequate convergent and external validity. UCMRT is self-administrable, freely available for researchers, facilitates repeated testing of fluid intelligence, and resolves numerous limitations of existing matrix tests.}, }
@article {pmid30365419, year = {2019}, author = {Haapala, EA and Lintu, N and Väistö, J and Tompuri, T and Soininen, S and Viitasalo, A and Eloranta, AM and Venäläinen, T and Sääkslahti, A and Laitinen, T and Lakka, TA}, title = {Longitudinal Associations of Fitness, Motor Competence, and Adiposity with Cognition.}, journal = {Medicine and science in sports and exercise}, volume = {51}, number = {3}, pages = {465-471}, doi = {10.1249/MSS.0000000000001826}, pmid = {30365419}, issn = {1530-0315}, mesh = {*Adiposity ; *Cardiorespiratory Fitness ; Child ; *Cognition ; Female ; Finland ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; *Motor Skills ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the longitudinal associations of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), motor competence (MC), and body fat percentage (BF%) with cognition in children.<br><br>METHODS: Altogether, 371 children (188 boys and 183 girls) 6-9 yr of age at baseline participated in this 2-yr follow-up study. We assessed CRF by maximal cycle ergometer test, computed the MC score from the z-scores of the 50-m shuttle run, static balance, and box and block test results, measured BF% by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, and assessed cognition using the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) score. The associations were studied by linear regression analysis and repeated-measures ANCOVA.<br><br>RESULTS: In boys, a higher MC score (&#x3b2; = -0.161, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.314 to -0.009), a shorter 50-m shuttle run test duration (&#x3b2; = 0.152, 95% CI = 0.007-0.296), and a higher number of cubes moved in the Box and block test (&#x3b2; = -0.161, 95% CI = -0.309 to -0.013) at baseline were associated with a smaller increase in the RCPM score during follow-up. These associations were largely explained by the RCPM score at baseline. However, boys in the highest third (mean difference = 2.5, 95% CI for difference = 0.66-4.33) and the middle third (mean difference = 2.1, 95% CI for difference = 0.39-3.82) of the MC score at baseline had a higher RCPM score over the 2-yr follow-up than boys in the lowest third. CRF, MC, or adiposity was not associated with the RCPM score in girls. Changes in CRF, MC, or BF% were not associated with changes in cognition.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Higher MC at baseline predicted better cognition during the first two school years in boys but not in girls. CRF or adiposity was not associated with cognition in boys or girls.}, }
@article {pmid30357434, year = {2018}, author = {Prochazkova, L and Lippelt, DP and Colzato, LS and Kuchar, M and Sjoerds, Z and Hommel, B}, title = {Exploring the effect of microdosing psychedelics on creativity in an open-label natural setting.}, journal = {Psychopharmacology}, volume = {235}, number = {12}, pages = {3401-3413}, pmid = {30357434}, issn = {1432-2072}, support = {694722//European Research Council (ERC-2015-AdG-694722)/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Clinical Trials, Phase I as Topic ; *Creativity ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Female ; Hallucinogens/*administration &amp; dosage ; Humans ; Intelligence/drug effects/physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Motivation/drug effects/physiology ; Nootropic Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Photic Stimulation/methods ; Problem Solving/drug effects/physiology ; Thinking/*drug effects/physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Taking microdoses (a mere fraction of normal doses) of psychedelic substances, such as truffles, recently gained popularity, as it allegedly has multiple beneficial effects including creativity and problem-solving performance, potentially through targeting serotonergic 5-HT2A receptors and promoting cognitive flexibility, crucial to creative thinking. Nevertheless, enhancing effects of microdosing remain anecdotal, and in the absence of quantitative research on microdosing psychedelics, it is impossible to draw definitive conclusions on that matter. Here, our main aim was to quantitatively explore the cognitive-enhancing potential of microdosing psychedelics in healthy adults.<br><br>METHODS: During a microdosing event organized by the Dutch Psychedelic Society, we examined the effects of psychedelic truffles (which were later analyzed to quantify active psychedelic alkaloids) on two creativity-related problem-solving tasks: the Picture Concept Task assessing convergent thinking and the Alternative Uses Task assessing divergent thinking. A short version of the Ravens Progressive Matrices task assessed potential changes in fluid intelligence. We tested once before taking a microdose and once while the effects were expected to be manifested.<br><br>RESULTS: We found that both convergent and divergent thinking performance was improved after a non-blinded microdose, whereas fluid intelligence was unaffected.<br><br>CONCLUSION: While this study provides quantitative support for the cognitive-enhancing properties of microdosing psychedelics, future research has to confirm these preliminary findings in more rigorous placebo-controlled study designs. Based on these preliminary results, we speculate that psychedelics might affect cognitive metacontrol policies by optimizing the balance between cognitive persistence and flexibility. We hope this study will motivate future microdosing studies with more controlled designs to test this hypothesis.}, }
@article {pmid30356096, year = {2018}, author = {Bayern, AMPV and Danel, S and Auersperg, AMI and Mioduszewska, B and Kacelnik, A}, title = {Compound tool construction by New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {15676}, pmid = {30356096}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Cognition ; Crows/*physiology ; Decision Making ; Executive Function ; Female ; Food ; Inventions ; Male ; *Problem Solving ; Reward ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The construction of novel compound tools through assemblage of otherwise non-functional elements involves anticipation of the affordances of the tools to be built. Except for few observations in captive great apes, compound tool construction is unknown outside humans, and tool innovation appears late in human ontogeny. We report that habitually tool-using New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides) can combine objects to construct novel compound tools. We presented 8 naïve crows with combinable elements too short to retrieve food targets. Four crows spontaneously combined elements to make functional tools, and did so conditionally on the position of food. One of them made 3- and 4-piece tools when required. In humans, individual innovation in compound tool construction is often claimed to be evolutionarily and mechanistically related to planning, complex task coordination, executive control, and even language. Our results are not accountable by direct reinforcement learning but corroborate that these crows possess highly flexible abilities that allow them to solve novel problems rapidly. The underlying cognitive processes however remain opaque for now. They probably include the species' typical propensity to use tools, their ability to judge affordances that make some objects usable as tools, and an ability to innovate perhaps through virtual, cognitive simulations.}, }
@article {pmid30355809, year = {2018}, author = {Ling, H and Mclvor, GE and Nagy, G and MohaimenianPour, S and Vaughan, RT and Thornton, A and Ouellette, NT}, title = {Simultaneous measurements of three-dimensional trajectories and wingbeat frequencies of birds in the field.}, journal = {Journal of the Royal Society, Interface}, volume = {15}, number = {147}, pages = {}, pmid = {30355809}, issn = {1742-5662}, mesh = {Animals ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Crows/*physiology ; Flight, Animal/*physiology ; Wings, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Tracking the movements of birds in three dimensions is integral to a wide range of problems in animal ecology, behaviour and cognition. Multi-camera stereo-imaging has been used to track the three-dimensional (3D) motion of birds in dense flocks, but precise localization of birds remains a challenge due to imaging resolution in the depth direction and optical occlusion. This paper introduces a portable stereo-imaging system with improved accuracy and a simple stereo-matching algorithm that can resolve optical occlusion. This system allows us to decouple body and wing motion, and thus measure not only velocities and accelerations but also wingbeat frequencies along the 3D trajectories of birds. We demonstrate these new methods by analysing six flocking events consisting of 50 to 360 jackdaws (Corvus monedula) and rooks (Corvus frugilegus) as well as 32 jackdaws and 6 rooks flying in isolated pairs or alone. Our method allows us to (i) measure flight speed and wingbeat frequency in different flying modes; (ii) characterize the U-shaped flight performance curve of birds in the wild, showing that wingbeat frequency reaches its minimum at moderate flight speeds; (iii) examine group effects on individual flight performance, showing that birds have a higher wingbeat frequency when flying in a group than when flying alone and when flying in dense regions than when flying in sparse regions; and (iv) provide a potential avenue for automated discrimination of bird species. We argue that the experimental method developed in this paper opens new opportunities for understanding flight kinematics and collective behaviour in natural environments.}, }
@article {pmid30335785, year = {2018}, author = {Wang, H and Marcišauskas, S and Sánchez, BJ and Domenzain, I and Hermansson, D and Agren, R and Nielsen, J and Kerkhoven, EJ}, title = {RAVEN 2.0: A versatile toolbox for metabolic network reconstruction and a case study on Streptomyces coelicolor.}, journal = {PLoS computational biology}, volume = {14}, number = {10}, pages = {e1006541}, pmid = {30335785}, issn = {1553-7358}, mesh = {Computational Biology/*methods ; Computer Simulation ; Databases, Genetic ; Gene Editing ; Metabolic Networks and Pathways/*genetics ; Models, Genetic ; *Software ; Streptomyces coelicolor/*genetics/metabolism ; }, abstract = {RAVEN is a commonly used MATLAB toolbox for genome-scale metabolic model (GEM) reconstruction, curation and constraint-based modelling and simulation. Here we present RAVEN Toolbox 2.0 with major enhancements, including: (i) de novo reconstruction of GEMs based on the MetaCyc pathway database; (ii) a redesigned KEGG-based reconstruction pipeline; (iii) convergence of reconstructions from various sources; (iv) improved performance, usability, and compatibility with the COBRA Toolbox. Capabilities of RAVEN 2.0 are here illustrated through de novo reconstruction of GEMs for the antibiotic-producing bacterium Streptomyces coelicolor. Comparison of the automated de novo reconstructions with the iMK1208 model, a previously published high-quality S. coelicolor GEM, exemplifies that RAVEN 2.0 can capture most of the manually curated model. The generated de novo reconstruction is subsequently used to curate iMK1208 resulting in Sco4, the most comprehensive GEM of S. coelicolor, with increased coverage of both primary and secondary metabolism. This increased coverage allows the use of Sco4 to predict novel genome editing targets for optimized secondary metabolites production. As such, we demonstrate that RAVEN 2.0 can be used not only for de novo GEM reconstruction, but also for curating existing models based on up-to-date databases. Both RAVEN 2.0 and Sco4 are distributed through GitHub to facilitate usage and further development by the community (https://github.com/SysBioChalmers/RAVEN and https://github.com/SysBioChalmers/Streptomyces_coelicolor-GEM).}, }
@article {pmid30323931, year = {2018}, author = {Freeman, NE and Newman, AEM}, title = {Quantifying corticosterone in feathers: validations for an emerging technique.}, journal = {Conservation physiology}, volume = {6}, number = {1}, pages = {coy051}, pmid = {30323931}, issn = {2051-1434}, abstract = {Feather corticosterone measurement is becoming a widespread tool for assessing avian physiology. Corticosterone is deposited into feathers during growth and provides integrative and retrospective measures of an individual's hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function. Although researchers across disciplines have been measuring feather corticosterone for the past decade, there are still many issues with the extraction and measurement of corticosterone from feathers. In this paper, we provide several directives for refining the methodology for feather hormone analysis. We compare parallelism between the standard curve and serially diluted feather tissue from wild turkeys, Canada jays, and black-capped chickadees to demonstrate the wide applicability across species. Through a series of validations, we compare methods for feather preparation, sample filtration and extract reconstitution prior to corticosterone quantification using a radioimmunoassay. Higher corticosterone yields were achieved following pulverization of the feather however, more variation between replicates was observed. Removal of the rachis also increased the amount of corticosterone detected per unit mass while glass versus paper filters had no effect, and using ethanol in the reconstution buffer decreased intra-assay variation. With these findings and continued methodological refinement, feather corticosterone has the potential to be a powerful tool for both ecologists and physiologists working with historical and contemporary specimens.}, }
@article {pmid30320127, year = {2018}, author = {Gutierrez, JC and Holladay, SD and Arzi, B and Gomez, M and Pollard, R and Youngblood, P and Srivastava, S}, title = {Entry-Level Spatial and General Non-verbal Reasoning: Can These Abilities be Used as a Predictor for Anatomy Performance in Veterinary Medical Students?.}, journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {226}, pmid = {30320127}, issn = {2297-1769}, abstract = {There is currently limited available information, but growing interest, in possible relationships between spatial visualization skills in medical students and their academic performance in select areas of the curriculum such as radiographic interpretation and anatomy. There is very limited comparable information on how entry-level spatial visualization skills may correlate with macroscopic anatomy performance in veterinary medical students exposed to an integrated curriculum. The present study made use of a battery of two short tests that measure spatial ability: Guay's visualization of views test (VVT) and mental rotation test (MRT) and, one test that measures general non-verbal reasoning abilities: Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices Test, short form (APMT). Tests were given to 1st-year veterinary medical students (n = 124) immediately before commencing the integrated veterinary medical curriculum. Results show there is a positive correlation between entry-level spatial ability and non-verbal general reasoning scores confirming these abilities are linked (r: +0.22 and +0.3 for VVT/APMT and MRT/APMT respectively). The dispersion and inconsistency of significant positive correlation between anatomy practical exams grade and spatial and general reasoning scores suggest these abilities either do not correlate with anatomy practical exams grade or, are overcome with progression through the anatomy courses. Males scored higher than females in the spatial ability tests: 16.59 vs. 12.06 for VVT (p = 0.01) and 19.0 vs. 14.68 for MRT (p = 0.01). Scores for APMT did not show a significant difference by gender.}, }
@article {pmid30319161, year = {2018}, author = {Norwood, CR}, title = {Mapping the Intersections of Violence on Black Women's Sexual Health within the Jim Crow Geographies of Cincinnati Neighborhoods.}, journal = {Frontiers}, volume = {39}, number = {2}, pages = {97-135}, pmid = {30319161}, issn = {0160-9009}, support = {R25 HD045810/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Who will revere the Black woman? Who will keep our neighborhoods safe for Black innocent womanhood? Black womanhood is outraged and humiliated. Black womanhood cries for dignity and restitution and salvation. Black womanhood wants and needs protection, and keeping, and holding. Who will assuage her indignation? Who will keep her precious and pure? Who will glorify and proclaim her beautiful image? To whom will she cry rape? Abbey Lincoln, 1970.}, }
@article {pmid30313452, year = {2018}, author = {Passanha, V and Brescovit, AD}, title = {On the Neotropical spider Subfamily Masteriinae (Araneae, Dipluridae).}, journal = {Zootaxa}, volume = {4463}, number = {1}, pages = {1-73}, doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.4463.1.1}, pmid = {30313452}, issn = {1175-5334}, mesh = {*Animal Distribution ; Animal Structures ; Animals ; Body Size ; Brazil ; Colombia ; Dominican Republic ; Female ; Martinique ; Organ Size ; Peru ; *Spiders ; Trinidad and Tobago ; Venezuela ; }, abstract = {The Neotropical species of the diplurid subfamily Masteriinae are revised and redefined. Masteriinae now comprises four genera, Masteria L. Koch, 1893, Striamea Raven, 1981, a new genus, Siremata n. gen. and Edwa Raven, 2015, a fossil genus. The type species, Masteria hirsuta L. Koch, 1893, was used as basis for comparison and the knowledge of the genus has increased. Twelve species of Masteria are redescribed and eight new species are described: M. amarumayu n. sp. and M. mutum n. sp., from Brazil; M. yacambu n. sp., from Venezuela; M. sabrinae n. sp., from Martinique; M. tayrona n. sp., from Colombia; M. aguaruna n. sp., from Peru, M. soucouyant n. sp., from Trinidad and Tobago; and M. galipote n. sp., from the Dominican Republic. Females of Masteria aimeae (Alayón, 1995) and M. golovatchi Alayón, 1995 are described for the first time. Females of M. spinosa (Petrunkevitch, 1925), M. petrunkevitchi (Chickering, 1964), M. lewisi (Chickering, 1964), M. barona (Chickering, 1966), M. downeyi (Chickering, 1966), M. simla (Chickering, 1966), M. colombiensis Raven, 1981 and M. pecki Gertsch, 1982 are illustrated for the first time and rediagnosed. Masteria tovarensis (Simon, 1889) and M. cyclops (Simon, 1889) are synonymized with M. lucifuga (Simon, 1889). Masteria modesta (Simon, 1892) is considered as species inquirendae and M. emboaba Pedroso, Baptista Bertani, 2015 is considered as incertae sedis, as the type is lost. Both species of Striamea are revised and redescribed. A new genus, Siremata n. gen., is described and includes three Amazonian species: S. valteri n. sp., S. juruti n. sp., S. lucasae n. sp. Knowledge of the distribution ranges of the Neotropical Masteriinae are increased.}, }
@article {pmid30313189, year = {2018}, author = {Almeida, MQ and Salvatierra, L and De Morais, JW}, title = {A new species of Masteria L. Koch, 1873 (Dipluridae: Masteriinae) from Guyana.}, journal = {Zootaxa}, volume = {4434}, number = {2}, pages = {366-368}, doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.4434.2.6}, pmid = {30313189}, issn = {1175-5334}, mesh = {Animal Distribution ; Animals ; Guyana ; Male ; *Spiders ; }, abstract = {Mygalomorphs are a diverse spider group with primitive characteristics composed of the largest spider species in the world, however some species may be very small (Bond et al. 2012; Rogerio et al. 2013). The small spiders of the subfamily Masteriinae (Dipluridae, Mygalomorphae) can be found in Asia and South America (Raven 1981; Pedroso et al. 2015; WSC 2017). The subfamily is represented by two genera: Masteria L. Koch, 1873 and Striamea Raven, 1981. Masteria species can be identified by the following combination of characters: absence of cuspules in endites and labium; zero, two, six or eight eyes; and with or without paraembolic apophysis on the male palpal bulb (Raven 1981, 1985, 1991; Alayón 1995; Bertani et al. 2013; Pedroso et al. 2015). Currently, 24 species of Masteria are described, with 6 species found in South America: Masteria colombiensis, Raven, 1981 from Colombia; M. manauara Bertani, Cruz Oliveira 2013 and M. emboaba Pedroso, Baptista Bertani, 2015 from Brazil; M. cyclops (Simon 1889), M. tovarensis (Simon, 1889) and M. lucifuga (Simon, 1889) from Venezuela (WSC 2017). We document herein the first record and description of a new species of the genus Masteria from Guyana.}, }
@article {pmid30309157, year = {2018}, author = {Han, J and Xiang, H and Ridley, WE and Ridley, LJ}, title = {Crow's feet: Asbestos related lung changes.}, journal = {Journal of medical imaging and radiation oncology}, volume = {62 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {27}, doi = {10.1111/1754-9485.14_12785}, pmid = {30309157}, issn = {1754-9485}, mesh = {Animals ; Asbestos/*poisoning ; Asbestosis/*diagnostic imaging ; Crows ; Humans ; Lung/*diagnostic imaging ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed/*methods ; }, }
@article {pmid30309092, year = {2018}, author = {Xiang, H and Han, J and Ridley, WE and Ridley, LJ}, title = {Crow's feet appearance: Fissured gallstones.}, journal = {Journal of medical imaging and radiation oncology}, volume = {62 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {70}, doi = {10.1111/1754-9485.18_12784}, pmid = {30309092}, issn = {1754-9485}, mesh = {Diagnosis, Differential ; Gallstones/*diagnostic imaging ; Humans ; *Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, }
@article {pmid30307964, year = {2018}, author = {Hausberger, M and Boigné, A and Lesimple, C and Belin, L and Henry, L}, title = {Wide-eyed glare scares raptors: From laboratory evidence to applied management.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {13}, number = {10}, pages = {e0204802}, pmid = {30307964}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Eye/*physiopathology ; Glare ; Predatory Behavior/physiology ; Raptors/*physiology ; Vision, Ocular/physiology ; Visual Perception/physiology ; }, abstract = {Raptors are one of the most important causes of fatalities due to their collisions with aircrafts as well as being the main victims of collisions with constructions. They are difficult to deter because they are not influenced by other airspace users or ground predators. Because vision is the primary sensory mode of many diurnal raptors, we evaluated the reactions of captive raptors to a "superstimulus" (a "paradoxical effect whereby animals show greater responsiveness to an exaggerated stimulus than to the natural stimulus") that combined an "eye shape" stimulus (as many species have an aversion for this type of stimulus) and a looming movement (LE). This looming stimulus mimics an impending collision and induces avoidance in a wide range of species. In captivity, raptors showed a clear aversion for this LE stimulus. We then tested it in a real life setting: at an airport where raptors are abundant. This study is the first to show the efficiency of a visual non-invasive repellent system developed on the basis of both captive and field studies. This system deterred birds of prey and corvids through aversion, and did not induce habituation. These findings suggest applications for human security as well as bird conservation, and further research on avian visual perception and sensitivity to signals.}, }
@article {pmid30298044, year = {2018}, author = {Liu, Y and Yang, X and Li, J and Kou, E and Tian, H and Huang, H}, title = {Theory of Mind Development in School-Aged Left-Behind Children in Rural China.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {1819}, pmid = {30298044}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {The current study aimed to investigate differences in theory of mind between left-behind children and non-left-behind children in rural China and to examine the potential protective role of general reasoning ability in left-behind children's theory of mind. Participants included 213 children aged 7.10-13.67 years (111 boys and 102 girls, M = 10.51 years, SD = 1.33), 101 of whom were left behind in rural areas by one or both migrating parents for at least 6 months. The Strange Stories task, a second-order false belief task, and a faux pas task were used to measure children's theory of mind, and Sessions B and C in Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices were used to test children's general reasoning ability. The results showed that left-behind children scored lower on both the faux pas task and Strange Stories task. Additionally, on second-order false belief understanding, left-behind boys performed worse than non-left-behind boys, while left-behind girls scored higher than non-left behind girls. Moreover, children's general reasoning ability moderated the relationship between parental migrant status and children's faux pas understanding: For children with high levels of general reasoning ability, left-behind children performed similarly to non-left-behind children, while for children with low levels of general reasoning ability, left-behind children scored lower than non-left-behind children, indicating that general reasoning ability buffered the negative effect of being left behind on children's theory of mind development. The implications of these findings for training directed at left-behind children are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid30288960, year = {2019}, author = {Taufique, ST and Prabhat, A and Kumar, V}, title = {Light at night affects hippocampal and nidopallial cytoarchitecture: Implication for impairment of brain function in diurnal corvids.}, journal = {Journal of experimental zoology. Part A, Ecological and integrative physiology}, volume = {331}, number = {2}, pages = {149-156}, doi = {10.1002/jez.2238}, pmid = {30288960}, issn = {2471-5646}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Brain/*radiation effects ; *Circadian Rhythm ; Cognition/physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Hippocampus/*radiation effects ; Light/*adverse effects ; Neurons/*radiation effects ; Photoperiod ; }, abstract = {Our previous studies have shown that light at night (LAN) impaired cognitive performance and affected neurogenesis and neurochemistry in the cognition-associated brain regions, particularly the hippocampus (HP) and lateral caudal nidopallium (NCL) of Indian house crows (Corvus splendens). Here, we examined the cytoarchitecture and mapped out the morphology of neurons and glia-neuron density in HP and NCL regions of crows that were first entrained to 12-hr light (LL): 12-hr darkness (LD) and then exposed to the light regime in which 12-hr darkness was either replaced by daytime light (i.e., constant light, LL) or by dim light (i.e., dim light at night, dLAN), with controls continued on LD 12:12. Compared with LD, there was a significant decrease in the soma size, suggesting reduced neuronal plasticity without affecting the neuronal density of both HP and NCL of crows under LL and dLAN conditions. In parallel, we found a reduced number of glia cells and, hence, decreased glia-neuron ratio positively correlated with soma size in both, HP and NCL regions. These results for the first time demonstrate LAN-induced negative effects on the brain cytoarchitecture of a diurnal species and give insight for possible influence on the brain health and functions in animals including humans that might be inadvertently exposed to LAN in an emerging night-illuminated urban environment.}, }
@article {pmid30286069, year = {2018}, author = {Mitchell, PW}, title = {The fault in his seeds: Lost notes to the case of bias in Samuel George Morton's cranial race science.}, journal = {PLoS biology}, volume = {16}, number = {10}, pages = {e2007008}, pmid = {30286069}, issn = {1545-7885}, mesh = {Anatomy, Comparative/history ; Craniotomy/*history ; History, 19th Century ; Humans ; Organ Size ; Philadelphia ; Racial Groups ; Racism/*history ; Skull/anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {The discovery of nearly 180-year-old cranial measurements in the archives of 19th century American physician and naturalist Samuel George Morton can address a lingering debate, begun in the late 20th century by paleontologist and historian of science Stephen Jay Gould, about the unconscious bias alleged in Morton's comparative data of brain size in human racial groups. Analysis of Morton's lost data and the records of his studies does not support Gould's arguments about Morton's biased data collection. However, historical contextualization of Morton with his scientific peers, especially German anatomist Friedrich Tiedemann, suggests that, while Morton's data may have been unbiased, his cranial race science was not. Tiedemann and Morton independently produced similar data about human brain size in different racial groups but analyzed and interpreted their nearly equivalent results in dramatically different ways: Tiedemann using them to argue for equality and the abolition of slavery, and Morton using them to entrench racial divisions and hierarchy. These differences draw attention to the epistemic limitations of data and the pervasive role of bias within the broader historical, social, and cultural context of science.}, }
@article {pmid30284948, year = {2019}, author = {Rogers, KH and Ley, DH and Woods, LW}, title = {Mycoplasmosis of House Finches (Haemorhous mexicanus) and California Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma californica) in a Wildlife Rehabilitation Facility with Probable Nosocomial Transmission.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {55}, number = {2}, pages = {494-498}, pmid = {30284948}, issn = {1943-3700}, support = {R01 GM105245/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*microbiology/*transmission ; California/epidemiology ; Conjunctivitis, Bacterial/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; Cross Infection ; Disease Outbreaks/veterinary ; Hospitals, Animal ; Mycoplasma Infections/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {We describe an investigation of an outbreak of conjunctivitis in juvenile House Finches (Haemorhous mexicanus) and California Scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) at a central California, US wildlife rehabilitation facility. In late May 2015, the facility began admitting juvenile finches, the majority with normal eyes at intake. In June, with juvenile finches already present, the facility admitted juvenile scrub-jays, all with normal eyes at intake. In July, after conjunctivitis was observed in increasing numbers of juvenile finches and scrub-jays, carcasses were submitted for postmortem examination. Histopathology of five finches and three scrub-jays identified lymphocytic infiltrates in the ocular tissues. Conjunctival swabs from 87% (13/15) finches and 33% (4/12) scrub-jays were PCR-positive for Mycoplasma gallisepticum. One finch and two scrub-jays were PCR-positive for Mycoplasma synoviae. Additionally, gene sequencing (16S ribosomal RNA and 16S-23S intergenic spacer region) identified Mycoplasma sturni from 33% (3/9) scrub-jays. This outbreak of conjunctivitis suggested that M. gallisepticum-infected juvenile finches admitted to and maintained in a multispecies nursery likely resulted in transmission within the facility to healthy juvenile finches and scrub-jays. Evidence of other Mycoplasma spp. in finches and scrub-jays indicates that these species are susceptible to infection and may act as carriers. This outbreak highlighted the need for effective triage and biosecurity measures within wildlife rehabilitation facilities.}, }
@article {pmid30283017, year = {2018}, author = {Lewis, MB}, title = {The interactions between botulinum-toxin-based facial treatments and embodied emotions.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {14720}, pmid = {30283017}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Adult ; Affect/drug effects/physiology ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Cosmetic Techniques/*psychology ; Emotions/*drug effects ; Facial Expression ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/therapeutic use ; Neurotoxins/therapeutic use ; Skin Aging/*drug effects/pathology/physiology ; }, abstract = {Botulinum toxin (BTX) injections reduce muscle mobility and are commonly used to treat the appearance of glabellar frown lines. Research shows that this cosmetic treatment leads to a reduction in depression. This reduction is consistent with the theory of embodied emotions because patients have a reduced ability to frown and so receive less negative feedback associated with this action. The current research explored this effect and three further hypotheses for the effects of cosmetic BTX injections based on embodied emotions. It was hypothesised that treatment of crow's feet (or laughter lines) would reduce mood as patients' Duchenne smiles would be impaired. It was hypothesised that facial BTX treatments would impair emotional expression recognition because the ability to mimic emotions would be reduced. Finally, it was hypothesised that, as BTX treatments prevent facial expressions associated with sexual excitement, sexual function would be impaired after treatment. Twenty four BTX-treated and twelve matched participants (all female) were tested before and after treatment. Results found that BTX treatment of laughter lines was associated with increased depression scores. Further, BTX treatment was associated with reduced emotion recognition ability and sexual function. The current results add to our knowledge of the psychological effects of injections of powerful neurotoxins and broaden the scope of the embodiment of emotions.}, }
@article {pmid30282404, year = {2018}, author = {Shin, DA and Kim, C and Yudoyono, F and Yun, Y and Ha, Y and Kang, S}, title = {Feasibility of Percutaneous Robot-Assisted Epiduroscopic System.}, journal = {Pain physician}, volume = {21}, number = {5}, pages = {E565-E571}, pmid = {30282404}, issn = {2150-1149}, mesh = {Animals ; Endoscopy/*instrumentation/methods ; Epidural Space/*surgery ; Feasibility Studies ; Republic of Korea ; Robotic Surgical Procedures/*instrumentation/*methods ; Robotics/instrumentation/methods ; Swine ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Endoscopy has replaced open surgery, especially in spinal surgery. Among them, image-guided epiduroscopy allows pain generators to be identified, including epidural adhesion, fibrotic tissues, root compression, and spinal stenosis. However, the heavy lead apron worn by pain physicians to avoid exposure to radiation can induce occupational hazards, such as orthopedic complications and radiation-induced cancer. Hence, we developed a robotic system to address these problems.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to evaluate the feasibility of a robot-controlled epiduroscopic system.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: In vivo animal experiment.<br><br>SETTING: University in Republic of Korea.<br><br>METHODS: The robot-controlled epiduroscopic system was developed using the open architecture robot system (The Raven Surgical Robotic System, CITRIS, Berkley, CA, USA). The robotic system consists of a lab-made epiduroscope, steering section, robotic arm, and manipulator. For the in vivo study, 2 Yorkshire pigs were used to simulate an epiduroscopic procedure with the robotic system.<br><br>RESULTS: The insertion and steering of the catheter was performed safely, and epiduroscopic visualization was obtained without side effects. There were no device-related complications. Radiation exposure for the primary operator was 80% lower than the levels found during conventional epiduroscopic procedures. All live pigs showed normal behavior without any signs of pain. The mean time to reach the target region was less than 8 minutes.<br><br>LIMITATIONS: The epiduroscopic procedure was performed on pigs and not on humans. The dimensions of the spinal canal of pigs cannot compare to those of humans.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrated the feasibility of the robot-assisted epiduroscopic system.<br><br>KEY WORDS: Epiduroscopy, robotic system, spine, pig, animal model.}, }
@article {pmid30271545, year = {2018}, author = {Townsend, AK and Wheeler, SS and Freund, D and Sehgal, RNM and Boyce, WM}, title = {Links between blood parasites, blood chemistry, and the survival of nestling American crows.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {8}, number = {17}, pages = {8779-8790}, pmid = {30271545}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Many studies have used the avian hemosporidians (Leucocytozoon, Plasmodium, and Hemoproteus) to test hypotheses of host-parasite co-evolution, yet documented health and survival consequences of these blood parasites vary among studies and generalizations about their pathogenicity are debatable. In general, the negative effects of the hemosporidians are likely to be greatest during acute infections of young birds, yet most previous studies in wild passerines have examined chronic effects in adults. Here, we evaluated responses of nestling American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) to acute infection (prevalence and burden), as well as its short- and long-term survival consequences. We used panel of nine hematological and biochemical parameters that are regularly used to evaluate the health of domestic animals, including leukocyte profiles, hematocrit, and plasma proteins. We assessed the effects of infection on survival in a mark-recapture framework. Overall, 56% of crows (n = 321 samples) were infected by at least one of the three genera. Infections by all genera were associated with elevated plasma proteins and globulins, which could indicate an adaptive immune response. However, only Plasmodium infections were associated with low hematocrit (anemia) and lower fledging success, possibly mediated by the negative effect of low hematocrit values on body condition. Moreover, early Plasmodium infection (<40 days of age) had long-term survival implications: it was associated with lower apparent survival probability within 3 years after fledging. These results suggest that young crows mounted an adaptive immune response to all three genera. Short- and long-term pathological effects, however, were only apparent with Plasmodium infections.}, }
@article {pmid30269648, year = {2019}, author = {Prussien, KV and Salihu, A and Abdullahi, SU and Galadanci, NA and Bulama, K and Belonwu, RO and Kirkham, FJ and Yarboi, J and Bemis, H and DeBaun, MR and Compas, BE}, title = {Associations of transcranial doppler velocity, age, and gender with cognitive function in children with sickle cell anemia in Nigeria.}, journal = {Child neuropsychology : a journal on normal and abnormal development in childhood and adolescence}, volume = {25}, number = {6}, pages = {705-720}, pmid = {30269648}, issn = {1744-4136}, support = {K24 HL147017/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; R21 NS080639/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; T32 MH018921/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; U54 HD083211/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 NS094041/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Age Factors ; Anemia, Sickle Cell/*complications/*diagnostic imaging ; Blood Flow Velocity ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognitive Dysfunction/*diagnosis/*diagnostic imaging ; Female ; Gender Identity ; Humans ; Male ; Nigeria ; Ultrasonography, Doppler, Transcranial/*methods ; }, abstract = {Children with sickle cell anemia (SCA) have elevated cerebral blood velocity relative to healthy peers. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the association between cerebral blood velocity, measured by transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasound, age, and gender with cognitive function in children with SCA in Nigeria. Eighty-three children (Mage = 9.10, SD = 1.90 years; 55% female) with SCA in Nigeria completed cognitive assessments and a TCD ultrasound. The association between TCD velocity and measures of perceptual reasoning (Raven's Progressive Matrices), working memory (WISC-IV Digit Span), and executive planning (Tower of London, TOL) were assessed. Results showed that elevated TCD velocity significantly predicted lower scores on TOL Time Violations and Total Problem-Solving Time when controlling for BMI, hemoglobin level, and parent education, suggesting that TCD velocity is related to the efficiency of executive function. Further, age was negatively related to children's performance on the Ravens Matrices and TOL Total Correct, and boys showed greater deficits on the TOL Total Correct relative to girls. Moderation analyses for gender showed that there was a conditional negative association between TCD velocity and Digit Span for boys, but not for girls. Findings suggest that children with SCA in Nigeria with elevated TCD velocity are at risk for deficits in efficiency of executive planning, and boys with elevated TCD velocity are particularly at increased risk for deficits in auditory working memory. Implications of this study are important for interventions to reduce cerebral blood velocity and the use of TCD in this population.}, }
@article {pmid32020956, year = {2018}, author = {Lei, F and Crow, WT and Holmes, TRH and Hain, C and Anderson, MC}, title = {Global Investigation of Soil Moisture and Latent Heat Flux Coupling Strength.}, journal = {Water resources research}, volume = {54}, number = {10}, pages = {8196-8215}, pmid = {32020956}, issn = {0043-1397}, support = {N-999999/ImNASA/Intramural NASA/United States ; }, abstract = {As a key variable in the climate system, soil moisture (SM) plays a central role in the earth's terrestrial water, energy, and biogeochemical cycles through its coupling with surface latent heat flux (LH). Despite the need to accurately represent SM/LH coupling in earth system models, we currently lack quantitative, observation-based, and unbiased estimates of its strength. Here, we utilize the triple collocation (TC) approach introduced in Crow et al. (2015) to SM and LH products obtained from multiple satellite remote sensing platforms and land surface models (LSMs) to obtain unbiased global maps of SM/LH coupling strength. Results demonstrate that, relative to coupling strength estimates acquired directly from remote sensing-based datasets, the application of TC generally enhances estimates of warm-season SM/LH coupling, especially in the western United States, the Sahel, Central Asia, and Australia. However, relative to triple collocation estimates, LSMs (still) over-predict SM/LH coupling strength along transitional climate regimes between wet and dry climates, such as the central Great Plains of North America, India, and coastal Australia. Specific climate zones with biased relations in LSMs are identified to geographically focus the re-examination of LSM parameterizations. TC-based coupling strength estimates are robust to our choice of LSM contributing SM and LH products to the TC analysis. Given their robustness, TC-based coupling strength estimates can serve as an objective benchmark for investigating model predicted SM/LH coupling.}, }
@article {pmid30267304, year = {2018}, author = {Naumczyk, P and Sawicka, AK and Brzeska, B and Sabisz, A and Jodzio, K and Radkowski, M and Czachowska, K and Winklewski, PJ and Finc, K and Szurowska, E and Demkow, U and Szarmach, A}, title = {Cognitive Predictors of Cortical Thickness in Healthy Aging.}, journal = {Advances in experimental medicine and biology}, volume = {1116}, number = {}, pages = {51-62}, doi = {10.1007/5584_2018_265}, pmid = {30267304}, issn = {0065-2598}, mesh = {Aged ; Brain/*diagnostic imaging ; *Cognition ; Female ; *Healthy Aging ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {This study seeks to define the role of predictive values of the motor speed, inhibition control, and fluid and crystallized intelligence in estimating the cortical thickness in healthy elderly. Forty-six older healthy subjects (37 women, 9 men) over 60 years of age were included in the study. The participants were examined on 3.0 T MRI scanners. The protocol included standard anatomical sequences, to exclude brain pathology, and a high-resolution T1-weighted sequence used to estimate the cortical thickness. The neuropsychological protocol included fluid intelligence assessment (Raven Progressive Matrices), crystalized intelligence assessment (information or vocabulary subtest of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (WAIS-R)), and executive functioning (Color Traits Test). The findings unraveled several interdependencies. The higher the intelligence, the thicker was the grey matter in nine regions of both hemispheres, but also some paradoxical reversed associations were found in four areas; all of them were localized along different sections of the cingulate gyrus in both hemispheres. An inverse association was found between crystallized intelligence and the thickness of the pars opecularis of the right hemisphere. The better the executive functioning, the thicker was the grey matter of a given region. The better the motor performance, the thicker was the grey matter of the rostral middle frontal area of the left hemisphere and the lingual gyrus of both hemispheres. In conclusion, the associations unraveled demonstrate that the neural mechanisms underlying healthy aging are complex and heterogenic across different cognitive domains and neuroanatomical regions. No brain aging theory seems to provide a suitable interpretative framework for all the results. A novel, more integrative approach to the brain aging should be considered.}, }
@article {pmid30256169, year = {2018}, author = {Elderbrock, EK and Small, TW and Schoech, SJ}, title = {Adult Provisioning Influences Nestling Corticosterone Levels in Florida Scrub Jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens).}, journal = {Physiological and biochemical zoology : PBZ}, volume = {91}, number = {6}, pages = {1083-1090}, doi = {10.1086/700258}, pmid = {30256169}, issn = {1537-5293}, mesh = {Animals ; Corticosterone/*blood ; Female ; *Maternal Behavior ; *Nesting Behavior ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {We studied Florida scrub jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) nestlings to examine the relationship between parental feeding rates and levels of corticosterone (CORT), a metabolic and stress-related steroid hormone hypothesized to play a role in mediating begging behavior. It has been documented that nutritional deficiency results in increased glucocorticoid levels in nestling birds. Further, previous studies have found that CORT levels of Florida scrub jay nestlings are negatively correlated with parental nest attendance and provisioning rates; however, the behavioral observations were made several days before the collection of samples to assess CORT levels. Few studies have investigated whether experience immediately before sampling impacts nestling glucocorticoid levels, especially in a free-living species. By monitoring parental activity at the nest before sample collection, we found that nestling CORT levels varied as a function of parental provisioning rate and the time since their last feed. However, counter to our predictions, higher provisioning rates and more recent feedings were associated with higher CORT levels in nestlings rather than lower CORT levels. These results suggest that some aspect of parental provisioning results in increased CORT levels in nestling Florida scrub jays.}, }
@article {pmid30253153, year = {2018}, author = {Rutz, C and Hunt, GR and St Clair, JJH}, title = {Corvid Technologies: How Do New Caledonian Crows Get Their Tool Designs?.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {28}, number = {18}, pages = {R1109-R1111}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2018.08.031}, pmid = {30253153}, issn = {1879-0445}, support = {BB/G023913/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {*Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Recent research shows that New Caledonian crows can incorporate information from researcher-made objects into objects they subsequently manufacture. This 'mental template matching' is one of several possible - mutually compatible - mechanisms for the cultural transmission of tool designs among wild crows.}, }
@article {pmid30238146, year = {2018}, author = {Ganz, K and Jenni, L and Madry, MM and Kraemer, T and Jenny, H and Jenny, D}, title = {Acute and Chronic Lead Exposure in Four Avian Scavenger Species in Switzerland.}, journal = {Archives of environmental contamination and toxicology}, volume = {75}, number = {4}, pages = {566-575}, doi = {10.1007/s00244-018-0561-7}, pmid = {30238146}, issn = {1432-0703}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; *Birds ; Bone and Bones/chemistry ; Crows ; Eagles ; Ecotoxicology/methods ; Environmental Exposure/*analysis ; Environmental Pollutants/*analysis/pharmacokinetics ; Falconiformes ; Lead/*analysis/pharmacokinetics ; Lead Poisoning/*veterinary ; Liver/chemistry ; Species Specificity ; Switzerland ; Tissue Distribution ; }, abstract = {Despite irrefutable evidence of its negative impact on animal behaviour and physiology, lethal and sublethal lead poisoning of wildlife is still persistent and widespread. For scavenging birds, ingestion of ammunition, or fragments thereof, is the major exposure route. In this study, we examined the occurrence of lead in four avian scavengers of Switzerland and how it differs between species, regions, and age of the bird. We measured lead concentration in liver and bone of the two main alpine avian scavengers (golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos and bearded vulture Gypaetus barbatus) over the entire area of the Swiss Alps and two of the main avian scavengers occurring in the lowlands of Switzerland (red kite Milvus milvus and common raven Corvus corax). Of those four species, only the bearded vulture is an obligate scavenger. We found that lead burdens in the two alpine avian scavengers were higher than those found for the same species elsewhere in Europe or North America and reached levels compatible with acute poisoning, whereas lead burdens of the two lowland avian scavengers seemed to be lower. Several golden eagles, but only one red kite with abnormally high bone lead concentrations were found. In all four species, a substantial proportion of birds had elevated levels which presumably represent recent (liver lead levels) or past (bone lead levels) uptake of sublethal doses of lead.}, }
@article {pmid30235385, year = {2018}, author = {Makino, ET and Jain, A and Tan, P and Nguyen, A and Moga, A and Charmel, C and Kadoya, K and Cheng, T and Mehta, RC}, title = {Clinical Efficacy of a Novel Two-Part Skincare System on Pollution-Induced Skin Damage.}, journal = {Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD}, volume = {17}, number = {9}, pages = {975-981}, pmid = {30235385}, issn = {1545-9616}, mesh = {Administration, Cutaneous ; Adult ; Air Pollutants/*adverse effects ; Dermatologic Agents/administration &amp; dosage/chemistry/*therapeutic use ; Double-Blind Method ; Drug Administration Schedule ; Drug Compounding ; Facial Dermatoses/etiology/metabolism/*prevention &amp; control ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Skin Aging ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {Air pollution continues to be a global health concern and recent studies have shown that air pollutants can cause skin damage and skin aging through several pathways that induce oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and skin barrier dysfunction. Preventive measures need to be considered to retain optimal skin health, and topical skincare products may be able to alleviate the negative effects of air pollution on skin. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical usage study was conducted to assess the efficacy and tolerability of a novel two-part skincare system (LVS) that was developed to provide protection against environmental skin aggressors including air pollution. After 8 weeks of use in subjects exposed to extremely high levels of pollution, LVS provided significant improvements compared to placebo in all clinical efficacy parameters including crow's feet wrinkles, overall skin damage, skin tone evenness, tactile roughness, and visible redness. Subject self-assessment questionnaires showed that the treatment product was highly rated in self-perceived efficacy. Decreased SQOOH and MDA content in skin swab samples suggest that LVS helped to reduce oxidative stress in patients' skin. Histological analyses of biopsy samples using biomarkers related to skin structure, damage and function (collagen IV, MMP1, CPD, and CD1a) further support the clinical benefits of LVS. Altogether, the presented study is among the first to show that topical skincare products can help to reduce pollution-induced skin damage and improve skin quality, especially when specifically formulated with active ingredients that combat the harmful effects of air pollutants. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018;17(9):975-981.}, }
@article {pmid30228952, year = {2018}, author = {Baldauf, MC and Gerke, JS and Kirschner, A and Blaeschke, F and Effenberger, M and Schober, K and Rubio, RA and Kanaseki, T and Kiran, MM and Dallmayer, M and Musa, J and Akpolat, N and Akatli, AN and Rosman, FC and Özen, &#xd6; and Sugita, S and Hasegawa, T and Sugimura, H and Baumhoer, D and Knott, MML and Sannino, G and Marchetto, A and Li, J and Busch, DH and Feuchtinger, T and Ohmura, S and Orth, MF and Thiel, U and Kirchner, T and Grünewald, TGP}, title = {Systematic identification of cancer-specific MHC-binding peptides with RAVEN.}, journal = {Oncoimmunology}, volume = {7}, number = {9}, pages = {e1481558}, pmid = {30228952}, issn = {2162-4011}, abstract = {Immunotherapy can revolutionize anti-cancer therapy if specific targets are available. Immunogenic peptides encoded by cancer-specific genes (CSGs) may enable targeted immunotherapy, even of oligo-mutated cancers, which lack neo-antigens generated by protein-coding missense mutations. Here, we describe an algorithm and user-friendly software named RAVEN (Rich Analysis of Variable gene Expressions in Numerous tissues) that automatizes the systematic and fast identification of CSG-encoded peptides highly affine to Major Histocompatibility Complexes (MHC) starting from transcriptome data. We applied RAVEN to a dataset assembled from 2,678 simultaneously normalized gene expression microarrays comprising 50 tumor entities, with a focus on oligo-mutated pediatric cancers, and 71 normal tissue types. RAVEN performed a transcriptome-wide scan in each cancer entity for gender-specific CSGs, and identified several established CSGs, but also many novel candidates potentially suitable for targeting multiple cancer types. The specific expression of the most promising CSGs was validated in cancer cell lines and in a comprehensive tissue-microarray. Subsequently, RAVEN identified likely immunogenic CSG-encoded peptides by predicting their affinity to MHCs and excluded sequence identity to abundantly expressed proteins by interrogating the UniProt protein-database. The predicted affinity of selected peptides was validated in T2-cell peptide-binding assays in which many showed binding-kinetics like a very immunogenic influenza control peptide. Collectively, we provide an exquisitely curated catalogue of cancer-specific and highly MHC-affine peptides across 50 cancer types, and a freely available software (https://github.com/JSGerke/RAVENsoftware) to easily apply our algorithm to any gene expression dataset. We anticipate that our peptide libraries and software constitute a rich resource to advance anti-cancer immunotherapy.}, }
@article {pmid30225178, year = {2018}, author = {Cucco, M and Bowman, R}, title = {Mass fluctuation in breeding females, males, and helpers of the Florida scrub-jay Aphelocoma coerulescens.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {e5607}, pmid = {30225178}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {Much evidence suggests that birds actively regulate their body mass reserves relative to their energy needs. Energy requirements during reproduction may differ in relation to sex-specific behavioural roles or, in the case of cooperative breeders, breeders relative to helpers. We measured body mass of free-living Florida scrub-jays throughout the nesting season by training them to land on an electronic balance. Jays exhibited a pattern of diurnal linear mass gain, from morning to afternoon. Day-to-day mass fluctuations, defined as the difference between mass on two consecutive days, were small (>80% were within 2 g, less than 3% of the mass of an adult bird) for all classes of jays: female breeders, male breeders and prebreeding helpers. The jays, which live in subtropical south-central Florida, did not exhibit changes in day-to-day mass fluctuation relative to weather or climate variables or calendar date. Day-to-day mass fluctuations influenced mass fluctuation between the following third and fourth days. These changes were usually compensatory, indicating that jays are able to regulate their body mass on a short-term basis, despite strong differences in their roles in reproduction. During reproduction, jays have a relatively predictable and abundant food supply, thus the appropriate strategy may be to maintain a stable body mass that balances some energy reserves against maintaining a low body mass for efficient flight, as required during reproduction.}, }
@article {pmid30222228, year = {2019}, author = {Townsend, AK and Taff, CC and Jones, ML and Getman, KH and Wheeler, SS and Hinton, MG and Logsdon, RM}, title = {Apparent inbreeding preference despite inbreeding depression in the American crow.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {28}, number = {5}, pages = {1116-1126}, doi = {10.1111/mec.14866}, pmid = {30222228}, issn = {1365-294X}, support = {(13-2735)//ANR Competitive Grant from the University of California at Davis/International ; 1555754//National Science Foundation/International ; }, mesh = {Animals ; California ; Crows/*genetics/physiology ; Heterozygote ; Inbreeding ; Inbreeding Depression/*genetics ; Microsatellite Repeats/*genetics ; New York ; Reproduction/*genetics ; Sexual Behavior, Animal ; }, abstract = {Although matings between relatives can have negative effects on offspring fitness, apparent inbreeding preference has been reported in a growing number of systems, including those with documented inbreeding depression. Here, we examined evidence for inbreeding depression and inbreeding preference in two populations (Clinton, New York, and Davis, California, USA) of the cooperatively breeding American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos). We then compared observed inbreeding strategies with theoretical expectations for optimal, adaptive levels of inbreeding, given the inclusive fitness benefits and population-specific magnitude of inbreeding depression. We found that low heterozygosity at a panel of 33 microsatellite markers was associated with low survival probability (fledging success) and low white blood cell counts among offspring in both populations. Despite these costs, our data were more consistent with inbreeding preference than avoidance: The observed heterozygosity among 396 sampled crow offspring was significantly lower than expected if local adults were mating by random chance. This pattern was consistent across a range of spatial scales in both populations. Adaptive levels of inbreeding, given the magnitude of inbreeding depression, were predicted to be very low in the California population, whereas complete disassortative mating was predicted in the New York population. Sexual conflict might have contributed to the apparent absence of inbreeding avoidance in crows. These data add to an increasing number of examples of an "inbreeding paradox," where inbreeding appears to be preferred despite inbreeding depression.}, }
@article {pmid30218871, year = {2018}, author = {Herring, G and Eagles-Smith, CA and Varland, DE}, title = {Mercury and lead exposure in avian scavengers from the Pacific Northwest suggest risks to California condors: Implications for reintroduction and recovery.}, journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)}, volume = {243}, number = {Pt A}, pages = {610-619}, doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2018.09.005}, pmid = {30218871}, issn = {1873-6424}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; California ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; Ecosystem ; Environmental Exposure/analysis ; *Environmental Monitoring ; Falconiformes/*metabolism ; Fishes ; Lead/*metabolism ; Mercury/*metabolism ; Northwestern United States ; Risk ; }, abstract = {Mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb) are widespread contaminants that pose risks to avian scavengers. In fact, Pb exposure is the primary factor limiting population recovery in the endangered California condor (Gymnogyps californianus) and Hg can impair avian reproduction at environmentally relevant exposures. The Pacific Northwest region of the US was historically part of the condor's native range, and efforts are underway to expand recovery into this area. To identify potential threats to reintroduced condors we assessed foraging habitats, Hg and Pb exposure, and physiological responses in two surrogate avian scavenger species (common ravens [Corvus corax] and turkey vultures [Cathartes aura] across the region between 2012 and 2016. Mercury exposure near the Pacific coast was 17-27-fold higher than in inland areas, and stable carbon and sulfur isotopes ratios indicated that coastal scavengers were highly reliant on marine prey. In contrast, Pb concentrations were uniformly elevated across the region, with 18% of the birds exposed to subclinical poisoning levels. Elevated Pb concentrations were associated with lower delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (δ-ALAD) activity, and in ravens there was an interactive effect between Hg and Pb on fecal corticosterone concentrations. This interaction indicated that the effects of Hg and Pb exposure on the stress axis are bidirectional, and depend on the magnitude of simultaneous exposure to the other contaminant. Our results suggest that condors released to the Pacific Northwest may be exposed to both elevated Hg and Pb, posing challenges to management of future condor populations in the Pacific Northwest. Developing a robust monitoring program for reintroduced condors and surrogate scavengers will help both better understand the drivers of exposure and predict the likelihood of impaired health. These findings provide a strong foundation for such an effort, providing resource managers with valuable information to help mitigate potential risks.}, }
@article {pmid30218624, year = {2018}, author = {Taufique, SKT and Prabhat, A and Kumar, V}, title = {Illuminated night alters hippocampal gene expressions and induces depressive-like responses in diurnal corvids.}, journal = {The European journal of neuroscience}, volume = {48}, number = {9}, pages = {3005-3018}, doi = {10.1111/ejn.14157}, pmid = {30218624}, issn = {1460-9568}, mesh = {Animals ; Biomarkers/blood ; Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor/biosynthesis/genetics ; Circadian Rhythm/*physiology ; Corticosterone/blood ; Crows ; Depression/etiology/*genetics/*metabolism ; Gene Expression ; Hippocampus/*metabolism ; Lighting/*adverse effects ; Melatonin/blood/genetics ; Photoperiod ; }, abstract = {Artificial light at night induces circadian disruptions and causes cognitive impairment and mood disorders; yet very little is known about the neural and molecular correlates of these effects in diurnal animals. We manipulated the night environment and examined cellular and molecular changes in hippocampus, the brain region involved in cognition and mood, of Indian house crows (Corvus splendens) exposed to 12 hr light (150 lux): 12 hr darkness (0 lux). Diurnal corvids are an ideal model species with cognitive abilities at par with mammals. Dim light (6 lux) at night (dLAN) altered daily activity:rest pattern, reduced sleep, and induced depressive-like responses (decreased eating and self-grooming, self-mutilation, and reduced novel object exploration); return to an absolute dark night reversed these negative effects. dLAN suppressed nocturnal melatonin levels; however, diurnal corticosterone levels were unaffected. Concomitant reduction of immunoreactivity for DCX and BDNF suggested dLAN-induced suppression of hippocampal neurogenesis and compromised neuronal health. dLAN also negatively influenced hippocampal expression of genes associated with depressive-like responses (bdnf, il-1β, tnfr1, nr4a2), but not of those associated with neuronal plasticity (egr1, creb, syngap, syn2, grin2a, grin2b), cellular oxidative stress (gst, sod3, cat1) and neuronal death (caspase2, caspase3, foxo3). Furthermore, we envisaged the role of BDNF and showed epigenetic modification of bdnf gene by decreased histone H3 acetylation and increased hdac4 expression under dLAN. These results demonstrate transcriptional and epigenetic bases of dLAN-induced negative effects in diurnal crows, and provide insights into the risks of exposure to illuminated nights to animals including humans in an urban setting.}, }
@article {pmid30215276, year = {2019}, author = {Simonds, VW and Kim, FL and LaVeaux, D and Pickett, V and Milakovich, J and Cummins, J}, title = {Guardians of the Living Water: Using a Health Literacy Framework to Evaluate a Child as Change Agent Intervention.}, journal = {Health education &amp; behavior : the official publication of the Society for Public Health Education}, volume = {46}, number = {2}, pages = {349-359}, pmid = {30215276}, issn = {1552-6127}, support = {P20 GM103474/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; P20 GM104417/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Child ; Community-Based Participatory Research ; Feasibility Studies ; Female ; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; *Health Literacy ; Humans ; Indians, North American/*psychology ; Male ; Program Development ; Program Evaluation ; *Water Pollution ; *Water Supply ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: American Indian communities in the United States experience considerable health inequities, including increased exposure to environmental contaminants. Consequently, community members of the Apsáalooke (Crow) Nation identified the lack of water-related environmental knowledge among children as an area of concern.<br><br>AIM: The purpose of this study was to provide a feasibility evaluation of an increasingly sophisticated environmental health literacy program for children.<br><br>METHOD: A community-academic partnership developed and piloted the Guardians of the Living Water program to increase environmental health literacy among children and their families on the Crow reservation. Nutbeam's framework for health literacy, a schema based on functional, interactive, and critical literacy, shaped the program evaluation. We used a within-subjects, quasi-experimental design without a control group. Interviews with children and parents were used to assess the feasibility of the program, while pre-/posttests assessed changes in knowledge, skills, and behavior.<br><br>RESULTS: Compared with preintervention responses, those from postintervention indicated significant increases for selected knowledge and attitude components. Based on qualitative interviews with children and caregivers, the camp was a valuable experience and increased knowledge of water quality science and reinforced cultural knowledge.<br><br>DISCUSSION: This success of our program stems from the trust initially built between partners and then expanded throughout the community. The program and the evaluation benefited from both the health literacy framework and from our integration of Aps&#xe1;alooke values.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that a community-based intervention designed to increase environmental health literacy among youth and their social networks is feasible and acceptable to this American Indian community.}, }
@article {pmid30205027, year = {2018}, author = {Wheatcroft, D and Price, TD}, title = {Collective Action Promoted by Key Individuals.}, journal = {The American naturalist}, volume = {192}, number = {4}, pages = {401-414}, doi = {10.1086/698874}, pmid = {30205027}, issn = {1537-5323}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Cooperative Behavior ; Female ; Male ; *Nesting Behavior ; *Predatory Behavior ; *Social Behavior ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Explaining why individuals participate in risky group behaviors has been a long-term challenge. We experimentally studied the formation of groups of birds (mobs) that aggressively confront predators and avian nest parasites and developed a theoretical model to evaluate the conditions under which mobs arise. We presented taxidermied mounts of predators on adult birds (hawks and owls) and of nest threats (crows and cuckoos) at different distances to nests of Phylloscopus warblers. Even when alone, birds are aggressive toward predators of adult birds, both at and away from their nests. By contrast, birds aggressively confront nest threats alone only when they have a nest nearby. However, strong initial responses by nest owners lead individuals without nearby nests to increase their responses, thereby generating a mob. Building on these findings, we derive the conditions in which individuals are incentivized to invest more when joining a high-gain individual compared to when acting alone. Strong responses of high-gain individuals acting alone tend to reduce the investments of other high-gain individuals that subsequently join. However, individuals that benefit sufficiently little from acting alone increase their investments when joining a high-gain individual and can even be sufficiently incentivized to join in when they would otherwise not act alone. Together, these results suggest an important role for key individuals in the generation of some group behaviors.}, }
@article {pmid30200421, year = {2018}, author = {Rahman, A and Al-Taiar, A and Shaban, L and Al-Sabah, R and Al-Harbi, A and Mojiminiyi, O}, title = {Plasma 25-Hydroxy Vitamin D Is Not Associated with Either Cognitive Function or Academic Performance in Adolescents.}, journal = {Nutrients}, volume = {10}, number = {9}, pages = {}, pmid = {30200421}, issn = {2072-6643}, support = {WF02/13//Kuwait University/ ; }, mesh = {*Academic Performance ; Adolescent ; *Adolescent Behavior ; Age Factors ; Biomarkers/blood ; Child ; *Child Behavior ; *Cognition ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Kuwait ; Male ; Risk Factors ; Vitamin D/*analogs &amp; derivatives/blood ; Vitamin D Deficiency/*blood/diagnosis/psychology ; }, abstract = {Several observational studies have reported an association between low levels of vitamin D (VD) and poor cognition in adults, but there is a paucity of data on such an association in adolescents. We investigated the association between VD and cognitive function or academic achievement among 1370 adolescents, who were selected from public middle schools in Kuwait, using stratified multistage cluster random sampling with probability proportional to size. Plasma 25-hydroxy VD (25-OH-D) was measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). An age-adjusted standard score (ASC), calculated from Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices test, was used to evaluate cognitive function; academic achievements were extracted from the schools' records. Data on various covariates were collected from the parents through a self-administered questionnaire and from the adolescents using face-to-face interviews. 25-OH-D was weakly correlated positively with ASC (ρ = 0.06; p = 0.04). Univariable linear regression analysis showed an association between 25-OH-D categories and ASC after adjusting for gender, but adjusting for parental education was sufficient to explain this association. Multivariable analysis showed no association between 25-OH-D and ASC after adjusting for potential confounders whether 25-OH-D was fitted as a continuous variable (p = 0.73), a variable that is categorized by acceptable cutoff points (p = 0.48), or categorized into quartiles (p = 0.88). Similarly, 25-OH-D was not associated with academic performance. We conclude that 25-OH-D is associated with neither cognitive function nor academic performance in adolescents.}, }
@article {pmid30194522, year = {2018}, author = {Ţălu, &#x15e; and Morozov, IA and Sobola, D and Škarvada, P}, title = {Multifractal Characterization of Butterfly Wings Scales.}, journal = {Bulletin of mathematical biology}, volume = {80}, number = {11}, pages = {2856-2870}, doi = {10.1007/s11538-018-0490-7}, pmid = {30194522}, issn = {1522-9602}, mesh = {Animal Scales/*ultrastructure ; Animals ; Butterflies/*ultrastructure ; Fractals ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; Mathematical Concepts ; Microscopy, Atomic Force ; Models, Biological ; Nanostructures/ultrastructure ; Pigmentation ; Surface Properties ; Wings, Animal/*ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {A lot of insect families have physical structures created by evolution for coloration. These structures are a source of ideas for new bio-inspired materials. The aim of this study was to quantitatively characterize the micromorphology of butterfly wings scales using atomic force microscopy and multifractal analysis. Two types of butterflies, Euploea mulciber ("striped blue crow") and Morpho didius ("giant blue morpho"), were studied. The three-dimensional (3D) surface texture of the butterfly wings scales was investigated focusing on two areas: where the perceived colors strongly depend on and where they do not depend on the viewing angle. The results highlight a correlation between the surface coloration and 3D surface microtexture of butterfly wings scales.}, }
@article {pmid30189245, year = {2018}, author = {Seppänen, MRJ}, title = {Novel cytoskeletal mutations with immunodeficiency: Why is the raven like a writing desk?.}, journal = {The Journal of allergy and clinical immunology}, volume = {142}, number = {5}, pages = {1444-1446}, doi = {10.1016/j.jaci.2018.08.020}, pmid = {30189245}, issn = {1097-6825}, mesh = {Actins ; Animals ; *Crows ; Mutation ; WD40 Repeats ; *Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome ; Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome Protein/genetics ; Writing ; }, }
@article {pmid30186962, year = {2018}, author = {Kramer, S and Vasil, KJ and Adunka, OF and Pisoni, DB and Moberly, AC}, title = {Cognitive Functions in Adult Cochlear Implant Users, Cochlear Implant Candidates, and Normal-Hearing Listeners.}, journal = {Laryngoscope investigative otolaryngology}, volume = {3}, number = {4}, pages = {304-310}, pmid = {30186962}, issn = {2378-8038}, support = {K23 DC015539/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DC000111/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DC015257/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 TR001070/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Increasing evidence suggests that hearing loss may be linked to cognitive decline, and that cochlear implantation may lead to improvements in cognition. The goal of this study was to examine the effects of severe-to-profound hearing loss and cochlear implantation in post-lingually deafened adults, compared with age-matched normal-hearing (NH) peers. Participants were tested on several non-auditory measures of cognition: working memory (WM) (digit span, object span, symbol span), non-verbal reasoning (Raven's progressive matrices), information-processing speed and inhibitory control (Stroop test), speed of phonological and lexical access (Test of Word Reading Efficiency), and verbal learning and memory (California Verbal Learning Test). Demographic measures were also collected.<br><br>METHODS: Cohort study at tertiary neurotology center. Forty-three post-lingually deafened experienced CI users, 19 post-lingually deafened CI candidates, and 40 age-matched NH controls with no cognitive impairment were enrolled. Comparisons among the groups on the cognitive measures were performed.<br><br>RESULTS: Adult CI users and CI candidates demonstrated worse (or a trend towards worse) performance as compared with NH peers on non-verbal reasoning, information-processing speed, speed of lexical access, and verbal learning and memory. However, after controlling for gender, socioeconomic status (SES), and vocabulary knowledge among groups, some of these differences were no longer significant. Similarly, large differences were not found in most cognitive abilities between experienced CI users and CI candidates.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Adult CI users, CI candidates, and NH peers generally demonstrated equivalent non-auditory cognitive abilities, after controlling for gender, SES, and vocabulary knowledge. These findings provide support for a link between cognitive decline and hearing loss, but this association may be partly attributable to group differences in SES and vocabulary knowledge.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2b.}, }
@article {pmid30155970, year = {2018}, author = {Pritchard, M and Hilari, K and Cocks, N and Dipper, L}, title = {Psychometric properties of discourse measures in aphasia: acceptability, reliability, and validity.}, journal = {International journal of language &amp; communication disorders}, volume = {53}, number = {6}, pages = {1078-1093}, doi = {10.1111/1460-6984.12420}, pmid = {30155970}, issn = {1460-6984}, mesh = {Aphasia/*physiopathology ; Comprehension ; Humans ; *Language ; Psychometrics/methods ; Qualitative Research ; Reproducibility of Results ; Severity of Illness Index ; *Speech Intelligibility ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Discourse in adults with aphasia is increasingly the focus of assessment and therapy research. A broad range of measures is available to describe discourse, but very limited information is available on their psychometric properties. As a result, the quality of these measures is unknown, and there is very little evidence to motivate the choice of one measure over another.<br><br>AIMS: To explore the quality of a range of discourse measures, targeting sentence structure, coherence, story structure and cohesion. Quality was evaluated in terms of the psychometric properties of acceptability (data completeness and skewness), reliability (inter- and intra-rater), and validity (content, convergent, discriminant and known groups).<br><br>METHODS &amp; PROCEDURES: Participants with chronic mild-to-moderate aphasia were recruited from community groups. They produced a range of discourses which were grouped into Cinderella and everyday discourses. Discourses were then transcribed orthographically and analyzed using macro- and microlinguistic measures (Story Grammar, Topic Coherence, Local Coherence, Reference Chains and Predicate Argument Structure-PAS). Data were evaluated against standard predetermined criteria to ascertain the psychometric quality of the measures.<br><br>OUTCOMES &amp; RESULTS: A total of 17 participants took part in the study. All measures had high levels of acceptability, inter- and intra-rater reliability, and had good content validity, as they could be related to a level of the theoretical model of discourse production. For convergent validity, as expected, 8/10 measures correlated with the Western Aphasia Battery-Revised (WAB-R) spontaneous speech scores, and 7/10 measures correlated with the Kissing and Dancing Test (KDT) scores (r &#x2265; 0.3), giving an overall positive rating for construct validity. For discriminant validity, as predicted, all measures had low correlations with Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) and WAB-R Auditory Verbal Comprehension scores (r < 0.3), giving an overall positive rating for construct validity. Finally, for known groups validity, all measures indicated a difference between speakers with mild and moderate aphasia except for the Local Coherence measures. Overall, Story Grammar, Topic Coherence, Reference Chains and PAS emerged as the strongest measures in the current study because they achieved the predetermined thresholds for quality in terms of each of the psychometric parameters profiled.<br><br>The current study is the first to psychometrically profile measures of discourse in aphasia. It contributes to the field by identifying Story Grammar, Topic Coherence, Reference Chains and PAS as the most psychometrically robust discourse measures yet profiled with speakers with aphasia. Until further data are available indicating the strength of other discourse measures, caution should be applied when using them.}, }
@article {pmid30153302, year = {2018}, author = {Cuneo, F and Antonietti, JP and Mohr, C}, title = {Unkept promises of cognitive styles: A new look at old measurements.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {13}, number = {8}, pages = {e0203115}, pmid = {30153302}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Models, Psychological ; *Personality ; Personality Inventory ; Psychometrics ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; *Thinking ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Cognitive style is thought to be a stable marker of one's way to approach mental operations. While of wide interest over the last decades, its operationalization remains a challenge. The literature indicates that cognitive styles assessed via i) questionnaires are predicted by personality and ii) performance tests (e.g., Group Embedded Figures Test; GEFT) are related to general intelligence. In the first study, we tested the psychometric relationship between the Cognitive Style Index questionnaire (CSI) and personality inventories (NEO Five Factor Inventory; NEO-FFI, HEXACO Personality Inventory Revised; HEXACO-PI-R). In the second study, we assessed the CSI, NEO-FFI, GEFT and a general intelligence test (Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices Test; RSMT). We found that CSI scores were largely predicted by personality and that CSI was uncorrelated with GEFT performance. Instead, better performance on the GEFT was associated with better performance on the RSMT. We conclude that i) cognitive style questionnaires overlap with personality inventories, ii) cognitive style performance tests do not measure cognitive styles and should not be used as such and iii) the cognitive style concept needs to be assessed with alternative measurement types. We discuss possible future directions.}, }
@article {pmid30141148, year = {2018}, author = {Aharoni, T and Goldbourt, A}, title = {Rapid automated determination of chemical shift anisotropy values in the carbonyl and carboxyl groups of fd-y21m bacteriophage using solid state NMR.}, journal = {Journal of biomolecular NMR}, volume = {72}, number = {1-2}, pages = {55-67}, pmid = {30141148}, issn = {1573-5001}, support = {847/17//Israel Science Foundation/ ; }, mesh = {*Anisotropy ; Bacteriophage M13/*chemistry ; Carbon Isotopes ; Molecular Dynamics Simulation ; Motion ; Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, Biomolecular/*methods ; Protein Conformation ; Proteins/*chemistry ; Software ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Determination of chemical shift anisotropy (CSA) in immobilized proteins and protein assemblies is one of several tools to determine protein dynamics on the timescales of microseconds and faster. The large CSA values of C=O groups in the rigid limit makes them in particular attractive for measurements of large amplitude motions, or their absence. In this study, we implement a 3D R-symmetry-based sequence that recouples the second spatial component of the [13]C CSA with the corresponding isotropic [13]C'-[13]C cross-peaks in order to probe backbone and sidechain dynamics in an intact fd-y21m filamentous phage viral capsid. The assignment of the isotropic cross-peaks and the analysis were conducted automatically using a new software named 'Raven'. The software can be utilized to auto-assign any 2D [13]C-[13]C or [15]N-[13]C spectrum given a previously-determined assignment table and generates simultaneously all intensity curves acquired in the third dimension. Here, all CSA spectra were automatically generated, and subsequently matched against a simulated set of CSA curves to yield their values. For the multi-copy, 50-residue-long protein capsid of fd-y21m, the backbone of the helical region is rigid, with reduced CSA values of ~ 12.5 kHz (~ 83 ppm). The N-terminus shows motionally-averaged CSA lineshapes and the carboxylic sidechain groups of four residues indicate large amplitude motions for D4, D5, D12 and E20. The current results further strengthen our previous studies of [15]N CSA values and are in agreement with qualitative analysis of [13]C-[13]C dipolar build-up curves, which were automatically obtained using our software. Our automated analysis technique is general and can be applied to study protein structure and dynamics, with data resulting from experiments that probe different variables such as relaxation rates and scaled anisotropic interactions.}, }
@article {pmid30137290, year = {2018}, author = {Jamborova, I and Janecko, N and Halova, D and Sedmik, J and Mezerova, K and Papousek, I and Kutilova, I and Dolejska, M and Cizek, A and Literak, I}, title = {Molecular characterization of plasmid-mediated AmpC beta-lactamase- and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae among corvids (Corvus brachyrhynchos and Corvus corax) roosting in Canada.}, journal = {FEMS microbiology ecology}, volume = {94}, number = {11}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1093/femsec/fiy166}, pmid = {30137290}, issn = {1574-6941}, mesh = {Animals ; Bacterial Proteins/*genetics ; Canada ; Crows/*microbiology ; Escherichia coli/classification/enzymology/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Feces/microbiology ; Klebsiella pneumoniae/enzymology/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; Plasmids/genetics ; beta-Lactamases/*genetics ; }, abstract = {This study evaluated the carriage of AmpC and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) genes and associated plasmids in faecal bacteria of Canadian corvids. Faecal samples from 449 birds in five roosting sites across Canada were analyzed using selective media, screening for AmpC and ESBL genes by PCR, and sequencing. Genomic relatedness was determined by PFGE and MLST. Plasmid mobility was studied by conjugation and transformation experiments, followed by plasmid typing. In total, 96 (21%, n = 449) cefotaxime-resistant Escherichia coli and three (0.7%) Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates were identified. ESBL genes blaCTX-M-1 (n = 3), blaCTX-M-14 (n = 2), blaCTX-M-32 (n = 2) and blaCTX-M-124 (n = 1) were detected in eight E. coli isolates, whereas blaSHV-2 (2) was found in two K. pneumoniae. E. coli isolates contained blaCMY-2 (n = 83) and blaCMY-42 (n = 1). The high genetic diversity of the isolates and presence of clinically important E. coli ST69 (n = 1), ST117 (n = 7) and ST131 (n = 1) was revealed. AmpC genes were predominantly carried by plasmids of incompatibility groups I1 (45 plasmids), A/C (10) and K (7). The plasmid IncI1/ST12 was most common and found in diverse E. coli STs in all sites. Highly diverse E. coli isolates containing AmpC and ESBL genes, including clinically important clones and emerging plasmids, are in circulation throughout Canadian wildlife.}, }
@article {pmid30132462, year = {2018}, author = {Berdina, ON and Rychkova, LV and Madaeva, IM}, title = {[Characteristics of sleep structure in schoolchildren with high intellectual abilities].}, journal = {Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova}, volume = {118}, number = {7}, pages = {78-81}, doi = {10.17116/jnevro20181187178}, pmid = {30132462}, issn = {1997-7298}, mesh = {Arousal ; *Electroencephalography ; Humans ; Polysomnography ; *Sleep ; }, abstract = {AIM: To study characteristics of sleep structure based on polysomnography (PSG) data of intellectually gifted schoolchildren.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty-four 8-9 grade schoolchildren of the boarding school were examined. In the first stage, the level of intellectual development was assessed with Raven's Progressive Matrices. An analysis of medical history and clinical examination were performed as well. Based on the result of testing, the adolescents were divided into medium intelligence group (n=15) and high intelligence group (n=29). The second stage included PSG examination.<br><br>RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: There was a trend towards an increase in sleep latency with a significant decrease of deep sleep, a significant decrease in REM-sleep latency and an increase in the number of REM-sleep episodes in the high intelligence group. No significant differences in waking after sleep onset, number of arousals (EEG activations) and respiratory events, and oxygen saturation levels were identified. The characteristics of PSG in intellectually gifted schoolchildren should be considered as a compensatory and adaptive reaction in response to constant increased intellectual loads and stressful situations as risk factors for psychosomatic disorders.}, }
@article {pmid30132156, year = {2018}, author = {Hennefield, L and Hwang, HG and Weston, SJ and Povinelli, DJ}, title = {Meta-analytic techniques reveal that corvid causal reasoning in the Aesop's Fable paradigm is driven by trial-and-error learning.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {21}, number = {6}, pages = {735-748}, pmid = {30132156}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {F32 HD093273/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition ; Crows/*physiology ; *Learning ; *Problem Solving ; Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The classic Aesop's fable, Crow and the Pitcher, has inspired a major line of research in comparative cognition. Over the past several years, five articles (over 32 experiments) have examined the ability of corvids (e.g., rooks, crows, and jays) to complete lab-based analogs of this fable, by requiring them to drop stones and other objects into tubes of water to retrieve a floating worm (Bird and Emery in Curr Biol 19:1-5, 2009b; Cheke et al. in Anim Cogn 14:441-455, 2011; Jelbert et al. in PLoS One 3:e92895, 2014; Logan et al. in PLoS One 7:e103049, 2014; Taylor et al. in Gray R D 12:e26887, 2011). These researchers have stressed the unique potential of this paradigm for understanding causal reasoning in corvids. Ghirlanda and Lind (Anim Behav 123:239-247, 2017) re-evaluated trial-level data from these studies and concluded that initial preferences for functional objects, combined with trial-and-error learning, may account for subjects' performance on key variants of the paradigm. In the present paper, we use meta-analytic techniques to provide more precise information about the rate and mode of learning that occurs within and across tasks. Within tasks, subjects learned from successful (but not unsuccessful) actions, indicating that higher-order reasoning about phenomena such as mass, volume, and displacement is unlikely to be involved. Furthermore, subjects did not transfer information learned in one task to subsequent tasks, suggesting that corvids do not engage with these tasks as variants of the same problem (i.e., how to generate water displacement to retrieve a floating worm). Our methodological analysis and empirical findings raise the question: Can Aesop's fable studies distinguish between trial-and-error learning and/or higher-order causal reasoning? We conclude they cannot.}, }
@article {pmid30131530, year = {2018}, author = {}, title = {Matchmaking clues for clever crows that are close to extinction.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {560}, number = {7719}, pages = {413}, doi = {10.1038/d41586-018-05901-8}, pmid = {30131530}, issn = {1476-4687}, }
@article {pmid30129502, year = {2018}, author = {Hua, CL and Bardo, AR and Brown, JS}, title = {Mistrust in Physicians does not Explain Black-white Disparities in Primary Care and Emergency Department Utilization: The Importance of Socialization During the Jim Crow era.}, journal = {Journal of the National Medical Association}, volume = {110}, number = {6}, pages = {540-546}, pmid = {30129502}, issn = {0027-9684}, support = {R01 AG040199/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R03 HD050374/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; T32 AG000139/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Black or African American/psychology/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Aged ; Emergency Service, Hospital/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; Healthcare Disparities/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Physician-Patient Relations ; Primary Health Care/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Social Segregation ; *Socialization ; Trust ; White People/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: Compared to whites, blacks under-utilize primary care (PC) and over-utilize emergency department (ED) services. The aim of this study is to determine whether mistrust in physicians explains these black-white disparities, and the potentially modifying influence of socialization under racially segregated health care (i.e., raised in the U.S. South during the Jim Crow era).<br><br>METHODS: Data come from the nationally representative Americans' Changing Lives Study (n=1,578). Poisson regression techniques are utilized to respectively model PC and ED utilization among a sample of non-Hispanic black and white adults aged forty-years and older.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Mistrust in physicians does not explain black-white disparities in PC or ED utilization. Blacks under-utilize PC services compared to whites, net of predisposing, need, and enabling factors, but this is especially apparent among blacks who were raised in the U.S. south during the Jim Crow era and continue to reside in the South. Blacks greatly over-utilize ED services compared to whites, but this is greatest among those raised in the south during the Jim Crow era and/or those currently residing in the South.}, }
@article {pmid30127351, year = {2018}, author = {Mason, LD and Wardell-Johnson, G and Luxton, SJ and Bateman, PW}, title = {Predators Show Seasonal Predilections for Model Clay Spiders in an Urban Environment.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {12444}, pmid = {30127351}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Environment ; Predatory Behavior/*physiology ; Seasons ; Spiders/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Predator-prey interactions may be altered under human-induced rapid environmental change, such as urbanisation. Extensive clearing in urban areas may leave short-range endemic species, such as mygalomorph spiders, more vulnerable to local extinction through predation in remaining remnants. Predation rates on Australian mygalomorph spiders were assessed using clay models of two size classes (5 cm, 3 cm), during two time periods in 2016 (January-February, July-August). Size and phenology of models resembled the mygalomorph genera Aname and Teyl occurring in these local urban remnants. Local predator guilds were significantly influenced by leaf-litter cover (%) and proportion of surrounding parkland. Preference for spider vs. control models was consistent across all predator types (bird, rodent, lizard and wasp), but specialist spider wasps (Pompilidae) only attacked spider models. Generalist predators (birds, lizards and rodents) were more opportunistic. Lizards and rodents exhibit similar predation behaviour, indicating there may be some inter-specific competition. Invasive generalists (e. g. rodents) or urban adapters (e. g. corvids) are more likely to represent an increased threat to spiders than are co-evolved specialists (e.g. spider wasps).}, }
@article {pmid30117157, year = {2019}, author = {Larsabal, M and Cogrel, O and Caumont, C and Jegou, MH and Taïeb, A and Morice-Picard, F}, title = {Mosaic mutations in FGFR3 and FGFR2 are associated with naevoid acanthosis nigricans or RAVEN (round and velvety epidermal naevus).}, journal = {The British journal of dermatology}, volume = {180}, number = {1}, pages = {201-202}, doi = {10.1111/bjd.17095}, pmid = {30117157}, issn = {1365-2133}, mesh = {Acanthosis Nigricans/*diagnosis/genetics/pathology ; Adult ; Biopsy ; Female ; Humans ; Mosaicism ; Mutation ; Nevus/*diagnosis/genetics/pathology ; Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 2/*genetics ; Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 3/*genetics ; Skin/pathology ; }, }
@article {pmid30111659, year = {2018}, author = {Steyaert, SMJG and Frank, SC and Puliti, S and Badia, R and Arnberg, MP and Beardsley, J and Økelsrud, A and Blaalid, R}, title = {Special delivery: scavengers direct seed dispersal towards ungulate carcasses.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {14}, number = {8}, pages = {}, pmid = {30111659}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Ericaceae ; Feces ; Feeding Behavior ; Foxes ; Norway ; Reindeer ; *Seed Dispersal ; Seeds ; }, abstract = {Cadaver decomposition islands around animal carcasses can facilitate establishment of various plant life. Facultative scavengers have great potential for endozoochory, and often aggregate around carcasses. Hence, they may disperse plant seeds that they ingest across the landscape towards cadaver decomposition islands. Here, we demonstrate this novel mechanism along a gradient of wild tundra reindeer carcasses. First, we show that the spatial distribution of scavenger faeces (birds and foxes) was concentrated around carcasses. Second, faeces of the predominant scavengers (corvids) commonly contained viable seeds of crowberry, a keystone species of the alpine tundra with predominantly vegetative reproduction. We suggest that cadaver decomposition islands function as endpoints for directed endozoochory by scavengers. Such a mechanism could be especially beneficial for species that rely on small-scale disturbances in soil and vegetation, such as several Nordic berry-producing species with cryptic generative reproduction.}, }
@article {pmid30110762, year = {2018}, author = {Saakian, DB and Cheong, KH and Koh, JM}, title = {Solution of the Crow-Kimura model with changing population size and Allee effect.}, journal = {Physical review. E}, volume = {98}, number = {1-1}, pages = {012405}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.98.012405}, pmid = {30110762}, issn = {2470-0053}, mesh = {*Evolution, Molecular ; *Models, Biological ; Mutation ; Population Density ; Population Dynamics ; }, abstract = {The Crow-Kimura model is commonly used in the modeling of genetic evolution in the presence of mutations and associated selection pressures. We consider a modified version of the Crow-Kimura model, in which population sizes are not fixed and Allee saturation effects are present. We demonstrate the evolutionary dynamics in this system through an analytical approach, examining both symmetric and single-peak fitness landscape cases. Especially interesting are the dynamics of the populations near extinction. A special version of the model with saturation and degradation on the single-peak fitness landscape is investigated as a candidate of the Allee effect in evolution, revealing reduction tendencies of excessively large populations, and extinction tendencies for small populations. The analytical solutions for these dynamics are presented with accuracy O(1/N), where N is the number of nucleotides in the genome.}, }
@article {pmid30105075, year = {2018}, author = {Morales, D and Ramirez, G and Herrera-Arellano, A and Tortoriello, J and Zavala, M and Zamilpa, A}, title = {Identification of Digestive Enzyme Inhibitors from Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) P.H.Raven.}, journal = {Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM}, volume = {2018}, number = {}, pages = {8781352}, pmid = {30105075}, issn = {1741-427X}, abstract = {Current antiobesity and antidiabetic tools have been insufficient to curb these diseases and frequently cause side effects; therefore, new pancreatic lipase and α-glucosidase inhibitors could be excellent aids for the prevention and treatment of these diseases. The aim of this study was to identify, quantify, and characterize the chemical compounds with the highest degree of inhibitory activity of these enzymes, contained in a Ludwigia octovalvis hydroalcoholic extract. Chemical purification was performed by liquid-liquid separation and column chromatography. Inhibitory activities were measured in vitro, employing acarbose, orlistat, and a Camellia sinensis hydroalcoholic extract as references. For structural elucidation, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance was carried out, and High Performance Liquid Chromatography was used to quantify the compounds. For α-glucosidases, L. octovalvis hydroalcoholic extract and its ethyl acetate fraction showed half-maximal Inhibitory Concentration (IC50) values of 700 and 250 μg/mL, for lipase, 480 and 718 μg/mL, while C. sinensis showed 260 and 587 μg/mL. The most active compounds were identified as ethyl gallate (1, IC50 832 μM) and gallic acid (2, IC50 969 μM); both displayed competitive inhibition of α-glucosidases and isoorientin (3, IC50 201 μM), which displayed uncompetitive inhibition of lipase. These data could be useful in the development of a novel phytopharmaceutical drug.}, }
@article {pmid30104433, year = {2018}, author = {Ashton, BJ and Thornton, A and Ridley, AR}, title = {An intraspecific appraisal of the social intelligence hypothesis.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {373}, number = {1756}, pages = {}, pmid = {30104433}, issn = {1471-2970}, support = {BB/H021817/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Variation, Individual ; *Emotional Intelligence ; Invertebrates/*physiology ; Songbirds/physiology ; Vertebrates/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The prevailing hypotheses for the evolution of cognition focus on either the demands associated with group living (the social intelligence hypothesis (SIH)) or ecological challenges such as finding food. Comparative studies testing these hypotheses have generated highly conflicting results; consequently, our understanding of the drivers of cognitive evolution remains limited. To understand how selection shapes cognition, research must incorporate an intraspecific approach, focusing on the causes and consequences of individual variation in cognition. Here, we review the findings of recent intraspecific cognitive research to investigate the predictions of the SIH. Extensive evidence from our own research on Australian magpies (Cracticus tibicen dorsalis), and a number of other taxa, suggests that individuals in larger social groups exhibit elevated cognitive performance and, in some cases, elevated reproductive fitness. Not only do these findings demonstrate how the social environment has the potential to shape cognitive evolution, but crucially, they demonstrate the importance of considering both genetic and developmental factors when attempting to explain the causes of cognitive variation.This article is part of the theme issue 'Causes and consequences of individual differences in cognitive abilities'.}, }
@article {pmid30096106, year = {2018}, author = {De Boulle, K and Werschler, WP and Gold, MH and Bruce, S and Sattler, G and Ogilvie, P and Street, J and Larsen, KE and Yushmanova, I and Lei, X and Lee, E and Vitarella, D and Mao, C}, title = {Phase 3 Study of OnabotulinumtoxinA Distributed Between Frontalis, Glabellar Complex, and Lateral Canthal Areas for Treatment of Upper Facial Lines.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {44}, number = {11}, pages = {1437-1448}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000001612}, pmid = {30096106}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Double-Blind Method ; *Face ; Female ; Humans ; Injections ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Although commonly practiced, simultaneous onabotulinumtoxinA injections to multiple facial areas have not been investigated in prospective studies.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: Evaluate safety and efficacy of onabotulinumtoxinA for treatment of forehead lines (FHL) distributed between the frontalis (20 U) and glabellar complex (20 U), with or without simultaneous lateral canthal areas (crow's feet lines [CFL], 24 U) treatment.<br><br>METHODS: Subjects with moderate to severe FHL were randomized (2:2:1) to onabotulinumtoxinA 40 U, onabotulinumtoxinA 64 U, or placebo. After 180 days, subjects could receive up to 2 additional open-label onabotulinumtoxinA 64 U treatments.<br><br>RESULTS: The intent-to-treat (ITT) population comprised 787 subjects, and the modified ITT (mITT) population (subjects with psychological impact) comprised 568. After 30 days, onabotulinumtoxinA 40 U and 64 U significantly improved investigator- and subject-assessed FHL severity by at least 2 Facial Wrinkle Scale (FWS) grades in 45.6% and 53.0% of ITT subjects, respectively, versus 0.6% receiving placebo (both, p < .0001). Significantly more mITT subjects receiving onabotulinumtoxinA achieved investigator- and subject-assessed FWS ratings of none/mild versus placebo (p < .0001). OnabotulinumtoxinA was well tolerated.<br><br>CONCLUSION: OnabotulinumtoxinA distributed between the frontalis and glabellar complex, with or without additional CFL injections, was safe and effective for treatment of moderate to severe FHL.}, }
@article {pmid30094362, year = {2018}, author = {Hunter, MA and Lieberman, G and Coffman, BA and Trumbo, MC and Armenta, ML and Robinson, CSH and Bezdek, MA and O'Sickey, AJ and Jones, AP and Romero, V and Elkin-Frankston, S and Gaurino, S and Eusebi, L and Schumacher, EH and Witkiewitz, K and Clark, VP}, title = {Mindfulness-based training with transcranial direct current stimulation modulates neuronal resource allocation in working memory: A randomized pilot study with a nonequivalent control group.}, journal = {Heliyon}, volume = {4}, number = {7}, pages = {e00685}, pmid = {30094362}, issn = {2405-8440}, abstract = {Mindfulness-based training (MBT) and transcranial electrical stimulation (TES) methods such as direct current stimulation (tDCS) have demonstrated promise for the augmentation of cognitive abilities. The current study investigated the potential compatibility of concurrent "electrical" MBT and tDCS (or eMBT) by testing its combined effects on behavioral and neurophysiological indices of working memory (WM) and attentional resource allocation. Thirty-four healthy participants were randomly assigned to either a MBT task with tDCS group (eMBT) or an active control training task with sham tDCS (Control) group. Training lasted 4-weeks, with up to twenty MBT sessions and with up to eight of those sessions that were eMBT sessions. Electroencephalography was acquired during varying WM load conditions using the n-back task (1-, 2-, 3-back), along with performance on complex WM span tasks (operation and symmetry span) and fluid intelligence measures (Ravens and Shipley) before and after training. Improved performance was observed only on the 3-back and spatial span tasks for eMBT but not the Control group. During 3-back performance in the eMBT group, an increase in P3 amplitude and theta power at electrode site Pz was also observed, along with a simultaneous decrease in frontal midline P3 amplitude and theta power compared to the Control group. These results are consistent with the neural efficiency hypothesis, where higher cognitive capacity was associated with more distributed brain activity (i.e., increase in parietal and decrease in frontal amplitudes). Future longitudinal studies are called upon to further examine the direct contributions of tDCS on MBT by assessing the differential effects of electrode montage, polarity, current strength and a direct contrast between the eMBT and MBT conditions on performance and neuroimaging outcome data. While preliminary, the current results provided evidence for the potential compatibility of using eMBT to modulate WM capacity through the allocation of attention and its neurophysiological correlates.}, }
@article {pmid30092679, year = {2018}, author = {Esquinas, AM and Karim, HMR and Soo Hoo, GW}, title = {Insight to the growing utilizations of high flow nasal oxygen therapy over non-invasive ventilation in community teaching hospital: alternative or complementary?In response to: Mihaela S. Stefan, Patrick Eckert, Bogdan Tiru, Jennifer Friderici, Peter K. Lindenauer &amp; Jay S. Steingrub (2018) High flow nasal oxygen therapy utilization: 7-year experience at a community teaching hospital, Hospital Practice, 46:2, 73-76, DOI: 10.1080/21548331.2018.1438739.}, journal = {Hospital practice (1995)}, volume = {46}, number = {4}, pages = {170-171}, doi = {10.1080/21548331.2018.1510283}, pmid = {30092679}, issn = {2154-8331}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Hospitals, Community ; Hospitals, Teaching ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Noninvasive Ventilation/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Oxygen Inhalation Therapy/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Respiration, Artificial/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Respiratory Insufficiency/*therapy ; }, }
@article {pmid30088462, year = {2018}, author = {de Freitas Keppeke, L and Schoen, TH}, title = {Perceptual-Motor Maturity in Adolescence and the Tanner Stages: A Study with Bender-Gradual Scoring System.}, journal = {The Spanish journal of psychology}, volume = {21}, number = {}, pages = {E33}, doi = {10.1017/sjp.2018.33}, pmid = {30088462}, issn = {1988-2904}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adolescent Development/*physiology ; *Bender-Gestalt Test ; Child ; Child Development/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Puberty/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Visual-motor skill forms an important psycho diagnostic component and is associated with psycho-neurological aspects. The Bender Visual-Motor Gestalt Test, widely used for the evaluation of this area, is meant for children up to 11 years. In adolescence, the changes associated with puberty generate nonlinear anthropometric development resulting in mild and temporary incoordination. This study investigated the relation between visual-motor development measured by the Bender test and pubertal changes according to the Tanner scale. In all 134 adolescents of both sexes, aged from 10 to 15, who kept routine medical appointments, participated. We used the Bender Visual-Motor Gestalt Test, Raven's Progressive Matrices Test, and medical chart data. The techniques were applied individually. Pubertal changes were associated with the Bender test results showing higher scores at the G3 stage, the period corresponding to a growth spurt, compared to the G5 stage (p = .007, ES = .187), the post-growth spurt period in boys. Age and gender did not influence the Bender test scores. According to the Raven test, the g intelligence factor, interfered significantly in the visual-motor performance (r = -57%, p < .001). Schooling, repetition of a school year, and developmental problems (p = .002, ES = .156; p = .002, ES = .623; p < .001, ES = .880, respectively) obtained similar results. The Bender Test was sensitive to schooling and maturational problems during adolescence. There was an association between visual-motor development and sexual maturity in male adolescents. Our results indicate the usefulness of the Bender Test at older ages than those used in the test standardization.}, }
@article {pmid30083996, year = {2018}, author = {Malik, A and Dharaiya, N and Espín, S}, title = {Is current information on organochlorine exposure sufficient to conserve birds in India?.}, journal = {Ecotoxicology (London, England)}, volume = {27}, number = {8}, pages = {1137-1149}, pmid = {30083996}, issn = {1573-3017}, support = {20828-1//Rufford Foundation/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Conservation of Natural Resources/*methods ; *Environmental Monitoring ; Environmental Pollutants/*analysis ; Hydrocarbons, Chlorinated/*analysis ; India ; Pesticides/*analysis ; }, abstract = {Organochlorine compounds (OCs) pose a serious threat towards the wildlife due to their well-known adverse effects. India is the second largest producer of pesticides in Asia, with DDT production still ongoing, and is ranked amongst the leading countries of pesticide consumption. However, a significant data gap in avian biomonitoring studies has been identified in Asia. The objective of this review is to compile and discuss the available literature on concentrations of organochlorine pesticides and PCBs in Indian birds. The review of 18 articles showed that DDTs were the OCs most frequently analysed, followed by HCHs and PCBs (highest hepatic mean values: 11.6, 1.8 and 1.03 µg/g ww, respectively). The most frequently analysed matrix was whole body homogenates, followed by internal tissues. Plasma, eggs, feathers and guano were poorly sampled. The range of sampling years was 1980-2007. In general, hepatic OC concentrations were below the level known to cause adverse effects, although p,p'-DDE in eggs was found in concentrations associated with eggshell thinning. Most of the studies were carried out in Southern India (Tamil Nadu). Out of 106 species studied, house crow (Corvus splendens) was the most frequently monitored. However, the number of individuals sampled per species is generally low and different sample types are used, thus, huge limitations to compare OC exposure exist. This review shows that there is a clear deficit of data on OC concentrations and sublethal effects that needs to be addressed to understand the status of OC exposure, spatio-temporal trends and potential impacts in Indian avifauna.}, }
@article {pmid30083121, year = {2018}, author = {Bourrier, SC and Berman, MG and Enns, JT}, title = {Cognitive Strategies and Natural Environments Interact in Influencing Executive Function.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {1248}, pmid = {30083121}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Exposure to natural environments and the adoption of specific cognitive strategies are each claimed to have a direct influence on executive mental functioning. Here we manipulate both factors to help determine whether they draw on common cognitive resources. Three experiments investigated links between environmental effects (nature vs. urban video tours) and strategic effects (active vs. passive instructional approaches to the task). Each experiment used a pretest-posttest design and assessed executive mental functioning using a backward digit span task and Raven's progressive matrices. Experiment 1 manipulated participants' cognitive strategy through explicit instructions in order to establish a link between cognitive strategy and executive mental functioning. Experiment 2 used a pair of 10-min video tours (urban, nature) to examine the relationship between environmental exposure and executive mental function on the same tasks, replicating previous findings with the backward digit span task and extended them to a new task (i.e., Raven's progressive matrices). In Experiment 3, these two manipulations were combined to explore the relations between them. The results showed that the nature video tour attenuated the influence of task instructions relative to the urban video tour. An interaction between environmental video exposure and cognitive strategy was found, in that effects of cognitive strategy on executive function were smaller in the nature video condition than in the urban video condition. This suggests that brief exposure to nature had a direct positive influence on executive mental functioning.}, }
@article {pmid30082401, year = {2018}, author = {Iknayan, KJ and Beissinger, SR}, title = {Collapse of a desert bird community over the past century driven by climate change.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {115}, number = {34}, pages = {8597-8602}, pmid = {30082401}, issn = {1091-6490}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; *Climate Change ; *Desert Climate ; *Extinction, Biological ; *Models, Biological ; }, abstract = {Climate change has caused deserts, already defined by climatic extremes, to warm and dry more rapidly than other ecoregions in the contiguous United States over the last 50 years. Desert birds persist near the edge of their physiological limits, and climate change could cause lethal dehydration and hyperthermia, leading to decline or extirpation of some species. We evaluated how desert birds have responded to climate and habitat change by resurveying historic sites throughout the Mojave Desert that were originally surveyed for avian diversity during the early 20th century by Joseph Grinnell and colleagues. We found strong evidence of an avian community in collapse. Sites lost on average 43% of their species, and occupancy probability declined significantly for 39 of 135 breeding birds. The common raven was the only native species to substantially increase across survey sites. Climate change, particularly decline in precipitation, was the most important driver of site-level persistence, while habitat change had a secondary influence. Habitat preference and diet were the two most important species traits associated with occupancy change. The presence of surface water reduced the loss of site-level richness, creating refugia. The collapse of the avian community over the past century may indicate a larger imbalance in the Mojave and provide an early warning of future ecosystem disintegration, given climate models unanimously predict an increasingly dry and hot future.}, }
@article {pmid30072877, year = {2018}, author = {Ditz, HM and Kupferman, JK and Nieder, A}, title = {Neurons in the Hippocampus of Crows Lack Responses to Non-spatial Abstract Categories.}, journal = {Frontiers in systems neuroscience}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {33}, pmid = {30072877}, issn = {1662-5137}, abstract = {Lesion studies suggest a role of the avian hippocampus in spatial and episodic memory. However, whether the avian hippocampus is also involved in processing categorical information and non-spatial working memory contents remains unknown. To address this question, we trained two crows in a delayed-match-to-sample test to assess and briefly memorize the number of items in dot displays, i.e., their numerosity. We recorded neuronal activity in hippocampus while crows solved this task. Hardly any hippocampal neurons responded to the category 'numerosity,' during neither sample presentation, nor during the memory delay. This was in striking contrast to previous recordings in the telencephalic association area 'nidopallium caudolaterale' (NCL) of the same crows, in which we previously reported an abundance of numerosity-selective and working memory-selective neurons. Our data suggest that categorical information is not processed in the avian hippocampus.}, }
@article {pmid30071975, year = {2018}, author = {Campo, JV and Bridge, JA}, title = {Exploring the Impact of 13 Reasons Why: Looking for Light Amidst the Heat . .}, journal = {Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry}, volume = {57}, number = {8}, pages = {547-549}, doi = {10.1016/j.jaac.2018.05.012}, pmid = {30071975}, issn = {1527-5418}, mesh = {Adolescent ; *Bullying ; Female ; Hot Temperature ; Humans ; *Suicide ; }, abstract = {A Letter to the Editor by Kieling and collegues[1] in this month's Journal attempts to explore the impact of the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why (13RW) on the thinking and behavior of adolescent viewers. The series is an adaptation of a 2007 novel by Jay Asher, and tells the story of an adolescent girl who dies by suicide following a series of traumas and disappointments that she catalogues before her death on 13 audiotapes. The tapes are left behind with the expectation that each of the individuals presumably responsible for her suicide will listen and better understand their individual and collective failures. Since its release and airing in 2017, the show has generated considerable heated debate and controversy, largely due to concerns about its potential for suicide contagion.}, }
@article {pmid30071683, year = {2018}, author = {Sutton, JT and Helmkampf, M and Steiner, CC and Bellinger, MR and Korlach, J and Hall, R and Baybayan, P and Muehling, J and Gu, J and Kingan, S and Masuda, BM and Ryder, OA}, title = {A High-Quality, Long-Read De Novo Genome Assembly to Aid Conservation of Hawaii's Last Remaining Crow Species.}, journal = {Genes}, volume = {9}, number = {8}, pages = {}, pmid = {30071683}, issn = {2073-4425}, abstract = {Abstract: Genome-level data can provide researchers with unprecedented precision to examine the causes and genetic consequences of population declines, which can inform conservation management. Here, we present a high-quality, long-read, de novo genome assembly for one of the world's most endangered bird species, the 'Alalā (Corvus hawaiiensis; Hawaiian crow). As the only remaining native crow species in Hawai'i, the 'Alalā survived solely in a captive-breeding program from 2002 until 2016, at which point a long-term reintroduction program was initiated. The high-quality genome assembly was generated to lay the foundation for both comparative genomics studies and the development of population-level genomic tools that will aid conservation and recovery efforts. We illustrate how the quality of this assembly places it amongst the very best avian genomes assembled to date, comparable to intensively studied model systems. We describe the genome architecture in terms of repetitive elements and runs of homozygosity, and we show that compared with more outbred species, the 'Alalā genome is substantially more homozygous. We also provide annotations for a subset of immunity genes that are likely to be important in conservation management, and we discuss how this genome is currently being used as a roadmap for downstream conservation applications.}, }
@article {pmid30065105, year = {2018}, author = {Faria, JP and Rocha, M and Rocha, I and Henry, CS}, title = {Methods for automated genome-scale metabolic model reconstruction.}, journal = {Biochemical Society transactions}, volume = {46}, number = {4}, pages = {931-936}, doi = {10.1042/BST20170246}, pmid = {30065105}, issn = {1470-8752}, mesh = {Automation ; Databases, Genetic ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; Humans ; Metabolic Networks and Pathways ; *Metagenome ; Microbiota ; *Models, Biological ; Software Design ; }, abstract = {In the era of next-generation sequencing and ubiquitous assembly and binning of metagenomes, new putative genome sequences are being produced from isolate and microbiome samples at ever-increasing rates. Genome-scale metabolic models have enormous utility for supporting the analysis and predictive characterization of these genomes based on sequence data. As a result, tools for rapid automated reconstruction of metabolic models are becoming critically important for supporting the analysis of new genome sequences. Many tools and algorithms have now emerged to support rapid model reconstruction and analysis. Here, we are comparing and contrasting the capabilities and output of a variety of these tools, including ModelSEED, Raven Toolbox, PathwayTools, SuBliMinal Toolbox and merlin.}, }
@article {pmid30060541, year = {2018}, author = {Ruiz-Rodríguez, M and Martín-Vivaldi, M and Martínez-Bueno, M and Soler, JJ}, title = {Gut Microbiota of Great Spotted Cuckoo Nestlings is a Mixture of Those of Their Foster Magpie Siblings and of Cuckoo Adults.}, journal = {Genes}, volume = {9}, number = {8}, pages = {}, pmid = {30060541}, issn = {2073-4425}, abstract = {Diet and host genetic or evolutionary history are considered the two main factors determining gut microbiota of animals, although studies are scarce in natural populations. The system of great spotted cuckoos (Clamatorglandarius) parasitizing magpies (Pica pica) is ideal to study both effects since magpie adults feed cuckoo and magpie nestlings with the same diet and, consequently, differences in gut microbiota of nestlings of these two species will mainly reflect the importance of genetic components. Moreover, the diet of adults and of nestling cuckoos drastically differ from each other and, thus, differences and similarities in their microbiotas would respectively reflect the effect of environmental and genetic factors. We used next-generation sequencing technologies to analyze the gut microbiota of cuckoo adults and nestlings and of magpie nestlings. The highest α-diversity estimates appeared in nestling cuckoos and the lowest in nestling magpies. Moreover, despite the greatest differences in the microbiome composition of magpies and cuckoos of both ages, cuckoo nestlings harbored a mixture of the Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) present in adult cuckoos and nestling magpies. We identified the bacterial taxa responsible for such results. These results suggest important phylogenetic components determining gut microbiome of nestlings, and that diet might be responsible for similarities between gut microbiome of cuckoo and magpie nestlings that allow cuckoos to digest food provided by magpie adults.}, }
@article {pmid30057908, year = {2018}, author = {Cao, Y and Yang, JP and Zhu, XG and Zhu, J and Chang, HQ and Guo, SH and Luo, D and Zhou, BR}, title = {A Comparative In Vivo Study on Three Treatment Approaches to Applying Topical Botulinum Toxin A for Crow's Feet.}, journal = {BioMed research international}, volume = {2018}, number = {}, pages = {6235742}, pmid = {30057908}, issn = {2314-6141}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Eyelids ; Female ; Humans ; Injections, Intradermal ; Middle Aged ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of three treatment approaches to applying Botulinum Toxin Type A (BoNTA) for crow's Feet.<br><br>METHODS: Thirty female subjects with moderate-to-severe crow's feet were included in this comparative in vivo study. They were randomly divided into three groups, including the local intramuscular, intradermal microdroplet injection, and nanomicroneedle delivered with BoNTA therapy group. After one session, evaluations were done at the time points of weeks one, four, and twelve after the treatment. The assessments included subjective satisfaction, blinded clinical assessment, and the biophysical parameters (skin collagen content, elasticity, hydration, and sebum contents).<br><br>RESULTS: For dynamic wrinkles, intramuscular injection and intradermal microdroplets injection were more effective than nanomicroneedles. For static wrinkles, nanomicroneedles and intradermal microdroplets injection were more effective. However, the intramuscular injection had no significant effect on static wrinkles. At one week and four weeks after the treatment, the skin elasticity, collagen content, and hydration of nanomicroneedle group and intradermal microdroplet group increased more significantly than those of the intramuscular injection group; at twelve weeks after the treatment, the skin elasticity, collagen content, and hydration of intradermal microdroplet group were higher than those of other two groups. However we observed no statistically significant difference in sebum content between the three groups before and after the treatment.<br><br>CONCLUSION: BoNTA delivered through nanomicroneedles and intradermal microdroplets injection can effectively treat crow's feet. This trial is registered with [2016]KY018-01, registered 16 Feb 2016.}, }
@article {pmid30042634, year = {2018}, author = {Yurtoğulları, &#x15e; and Taşkapılıoğlu, &#xd6; and Öztürk, B and Bilgiç, B and Hakyemez, B and Türkeş, N and Gelişken, &#xd6; and Turan, &#xd6;F and Bakar, M}, title = {Comparison of Brain Atrophy, Cognition and Optical Coherence Tomography Results Between Multiple Sclerosis Patients and Healthy Controls.}, journal = {Noro psikiyatri arsivi}, volume = {55}, number = {1}, pages = {3-8}, pmid = {30042634}, issn = {1300-0667}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Cognitive impairment is also an important cause of disability in MS in addition to motor, sensory, visual, and cerebellar affections. The aim of this study is to show the relation between the cognitive disability in MS with brain atrophy and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL).<br><br>METHODS: Forty-three multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, and 15 healthy individuals as controls were included in the study. MS patients were divided into three groups as relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), relapsing-remitting with optic neuritis (RRMS+ON), and secondary-progressive MS (SPMS). An experienced psychologist performed modified Wechsler Memory Scale Revised form (WMS-R), Lines Orientation test, Stroop Color Word Interference test (STROOP), Standard Raven Progressive Matrices (SRPM), Benton Facial Recognition Test, verbal fluency test, and Paced Auditory Serial Addition tests in all cases. Optic coherence tomographies (OCT) were done. Cranial subcortical volumes of all subjects were measured using 3-dimensonal T1A imagines obtained by the cranial subcortical 1.5 tesla MR device (fully automatic Freesurfer program). Brain parenchymal fractions were calculated by proportioning the obtained volume measurements to the total intracranial volume.<br><br>RESULTS: Fifty-eight subjects (65.5% female, 34.5% male) were enrolled in the study. There were significant differences among the groups in terms of parenchymal thickness, volumes of third ventricle, and white matter. There was a significant correlation between the volumes of the deep gray matter, mesial temporal structures and lateral ventricular volumes, and the test results of the WMS-R. OCT scores of all MS patients, whether or not they experienced optic neuritis, had increased, being worse especially in the SPMS group. Correlation between RNFL and the brain parenchymal fractions of the patients were statistically significant.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Manual methods instead of automatic segmentation method are being more commonly used in the studies with brain atrophy and MS in our country. A significant correlation between OCT scores and brain atrophy is shown with our present study, and this is followed as a reflection of decrease in cognitive tests that provides valuable and reliable knowledge for the literature.}, }
@article {pmid30030729, year = {2018}, author = {Blume, CA and Machado, BM and da Rosa, RR and Rigoni, MDS and Casagrande, DS and Mottin, CC and Schaan, BD}, title = {Association of Maternal Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass with Obstetric Outcomes and Fluid Intelligence in Offspring.}, journal = {Obesity surgery}, volume = {28}, number = {11}, pages = {3611-3620}, pmid = {30030729}, issn = {1708-0428}, mesh = {Adult ; Bariatric Surgery ; Body Mass Index ; Brazil/epidemiology ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Delivery, Obstetric/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; *Gastric Bypass ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; Infant, Premature ; Infant, Small for Gestational Age ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Nutritional Status ; Obesity/complications/*surgery ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Complications/epidemiology/etiology ; *Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: The purpose of the study is to assess whether Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) prior to pregnancy is associated with fluid intelligence in offspring. Additionally, perinatal and obstetric outcomes, and children nutritional status were evaluated.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: Singleton births of women who underwent RYGB between 2000 and 2010 (BS) were matched to two control births by maternal age, delivery year, and gender. Control group 1 (CG1) and control group 2 (CG2) included women with a pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) <&#x2009;35&#xa0;kg/m[2] and &#x2265;&#x2009;35&#xa0;kg/m[2], respectively, who had never undergone bariatric surgery.<br><br>RESULTS: Thirty-two children from each group (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;96) were analyzed, mostly female (59%) and Caucasian (82%), with a mean age of 7&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;2&#xa0;years. Their general intelligence scores were similar after adjusting for sociodemographic confounders; family economic class was the strongest predictor (low: &#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;-&#x2009;20.57; p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001; middle: &#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;-&#x2009;9.34; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.019). Gestational diabetes mellitus (OR 0.06; 95% CI 0.03; 0.35) and hypertensive disorders (OR 0.09; 95% CI 0.01; 0.40) were less frequent in BS than CG2. Post-RYGB pregnancies were associated with lower birth weight (P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.021) than controls. Child overweight and obesity was higher (OR 4.59; 95% CI 1.55; 13.61; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.006) in CG2 (78%) than CG1 (44%) and similar to BS (65%).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: RYGB prior to pregnancy was not associated with fluid intelligence in offspring. Prior RYGB was associated with a lower frequency of gestational diabetes mellitus and hypertensive disorders than in women with a pre-pregnancy BMI &#x2265;&#x2009;35&#xa0;kg/m[2], as well as with lower birth weight than both control groups.}, }
@article {pmid30027612, year = {2018}, author = {Rouvrais, C and Baspeyras, M and Mengeaud, V and Rossi, AB}, title = {Antiaging efficacy of a retinaldehyde-based cream compared with glycolic acid peel sessions: A randomized controlled study.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {17}, number = {6}, pages = {1136-1143}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.12511}, pmid = {30027612}, issn = {1473-2165}, support = {//Pierre Fabre Dermo Cosmetique/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; *Chemexfoliation ; Female ; Glycolates/*pharmacology ; Humans ; Keratolytic Agents/*pharmacology ; Middle Aged ; Retinaldehyde/*pharmacology ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Skin Cream ; Treatment Outcome ; Vitamin E/*analogs &amp; derivatives/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Glycolic acid (GA) chemical peels are a popular treatment for photoaged skin rejuvenation, but retinaldehyde (RAL)-based cosmetic creams have also demonstrated efficacy in improving photoaging, and are potentially better tolerated than chemical peels.<br><br>AIMS: To compare the efficacy and safety of an antiaging cream containing 0.1% RAL associated with Glycylglycine Oleamide (GGO, Relastide[&#xae;]) and Pre-tocopheryl[&#xae;] , to GA peels sessions in the treatment of photoaging.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: Fifty-five women with photoaging were randomized in 2 treatment groups: (1) Daily application of the antiaging cream for 8&#xa0;weeks or (2) Three sequential GA peels (20%, 50%, and 70%), 2-3&#xa0;weeks apart. Skin surface texture, length of wrinkles, complexion radiance, and evenness of pigmentation and texture were assessed by profilometry using skin replicas, computer image analysis, and self-assessment.<br><br>RESULTS: Efficacy of both treatments was similar in reducing crow's feet wrinkles depth (STm -7.61%, P&#xa0;=&#xa0;.0007 vs -4.34%, P&#xa0;=&#xa0;.0348; P&#xa0;=&#xa0;.3049 intergroup) and volume, crow's feet and periorbital wrinkle length, and number of fine lines and wrinkles at end of treatments. The efficacy of the cream in refining skin texture was superior to the peels (contrast: -5.61%, P&#xa0;=&#xa0;.0025 vs +3.54, P&#xa0;=&#xa0;.08; P intergroup&#xa0;=&#xa0;.0252). The 8-week treatment with the antiaging cream was well tolerated; adverse events were fewer and of milder intensity than with the peels, (12-fold lower incidence of physical signs).<br><br>CONCLUSION: A dermocosmetic cream containing 0.1% RAL, GGO (Relastide[&#xae;]) and Pre-tocopheryl[&#xae;] is as effective as 3 sequential GA peels, better tolerated, and is an alternative in the management of photoaged skin.}, }
@article {pmid30017081, year = {2018}, author = {Abdoli, A and Arbabi, M and Pirestani, M and Mirzaghavami, M and Ghaffarifar, F and Dalimi, A and Sadraei, J}, title = {Molecular assessment of Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii in hooded crows (Corvus cornix) in Tehran, Iran.}, journal = {Comparative immunology, microbiology and infectious diseases}, volume = {57}, number = {}, pages = {69-73}, doi = {10.1016/j.cimid.2018.06.008}, pmid = {30017081}, issn = {1878-1667}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/parasitology/transmission ; Brain/parasitology ; Cats ; Coccidiosis/epidemiology/parasitology/transmission/*veterinary ; Crows/*parasitology ; DNA, Protozoan/genetics ; Dogs ; Genotype ; Iran/epidemiology ; Neospora/classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Polymorphism, Restriction Fragment Length ; Prevalence ; Toxoplasma/classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Toxoplasmosis, Animal/*epidemiology/parasitology/transmission ; }, abstract = {Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii are two closely related protozoan parasites that have been detected from various species of bird hosts. However, little is known about the prevalence of N. caninum and T. gondii in crows. Hence, we examined the molecular frequency of N. caninum and T. gondii in the brain samples of hooded crows (Corvus cornix) that collected from different public parks of Tehran, Iran by nested-PCR method. We used the primers targeting the Nc5 and GRA6 genes for detection of N. caninum and T. gondii, respectively. From a total of 55 brain samples, 5 (9.9%) and 9 (16.36%) samples were positive for N. caninum and T. gondii, respectively. Sequencing of a N. caninum isolate revealed 95%-100% identity with the deposited N. caninum in GenBank. Genotyping of T. gondii isolates by PCR-RFLP analysis of the GRA6 gene revealed type III genotype in 8 isolates. The results of this study indicate that hooded crows may have a putative role in transmission of N. caninum and T. gondii to canines and felines definitive hosts, respectively.}, }
@article {pmid30015606, year = {2018}, author = {Wicherts, JM}, title = {IGNORING PSYCHOMETRIC PROBLEMS IN THE STUDY OF GROUP DIFFERENCES IN COGNITIVE TEST PERFORMANCE.}, journal = {Journal of biosocial science}, volume = {50}, number = {6}, pages = {868-869}, doi = {10.1017/S0021932018000172}, pmid = {30015606}, issn = {1469-7599}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; *Cognition ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Psychometrics ; Saudi Arabia ; }, abstract = {In a recent study, te Nijenhuis et al. (2017) used a version of Jensen's method of correlated vectors to study the nature of ethnic group differences on Raven's Progressive Matrices test. In this comment, the author points out that this method has been shown to be psychometrically inappropriate in studying group differences in performance on dichotomous (correctly or incorrectly scored) items. Specifically, the method uses item statistics like the item-total correlation that necessarily differ across groups differing in ability and employs a linear model to test inherent non-linear relations. Wicherts (2017) showed that this method can provide correlations far exceeding r=0.44 in cases where the group differences cannot possibly be on g because the items measure different traits across the groups. The psychometric problems with their method cast serious doubts on te Nijenhuis et al.'s conclusions concerning the role of g in the studied group difference in cognitive test performance.}, }
@article {pmid30013855, year = {2018}, author = {Silina, AV}, title = {Sex change in scallop Patinopecten yessoensis: response to population composition?.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {e5240}, pmid = {30013855}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {Sex structure is very labile between populations and specific for each population because it is a result of genetic, ontogenetic and biocenotic influences on the mollusks. In this study, the age frequency distribution, age-sex structure, and sex ratio were assessed in the wild populations of the Yeso scallop Patinopecten yessoensis (Jay) observed at fifteen sites in the northwestern Sea of Japan (=East Sea). The sex ratio varied between the populations from 0.83:1 to 1.52:1 (males/females), with the mean sex ratio being 1.03 ± 0.05:1. Within a population, the proportions of males and females in term of number differed between age classes. Males were more numerous than females in the younger age classes, and females prevailed over males in the older age classes. It was found that in different scallop populations the sex change occurred at different ages. In the populations that predominantly consisted of young (two- to four-year-old) individuals, males prevailed over females in the age class 2 yr.; the equal male/female proportion was found in the age class 3 yr.; and in older age classes, females prevailed over males. Another pattern was observed in the populations that consisted mainly of middle-aged (five- to six-year-old) individuals. Here, the age-sex ratio became equal at an age of 4-6 years. In the old populations (mainly 6-12-year-olds) the equal male/female proportion was observed at an age of 8-10 years. Thus, the age of sex change was not uniform for the scallop populations. It depended on the age structure of the population and, thus, was socially controlled. The greater number of females in the older age classes suggests a protandric sex change.}, }
@article {pmid30012749, year = {2018}, author = {Gonçalves, A and Biro, D}, title = {Comparative thanatology, an integrative approach: exploring sensory/cognitive aspects of death recognition in vertebrates and invertebrates.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {373}, number = {1754}, pages = {}, pmid = {30012749}, issn = {1471-2970}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; *Cues ; *Death ; *Invertebrates ; *Perception ; Thanatology ; *Vertebrates ; }, abstract = {Evolutionary thanatology benefits from broad taxonomic comparisons of non-human animals' responses to death. Furthermore, exploring the sensory and cognitive bases of these responses promises to allow classification of the underlying mechanisms on a spectrum from phylogenetically ancient to more derived traits. We draw on studies of perception and cognition in invertebrate and vertebrate taxa (with a focus on arthropods, corvids, proboscids, cetaceans and primates) to explore the cues that these animals use to detect life and death in others, and discuss proximate and ultimate drivers behind their capacities to do so. Parallels in thanatological behaviour exhibited by the last four taxa suggest similar sensory-cognitive processing rules for dealing with corpses, the evolution of which may have been driven by complex social environments. Uniting these responses is a phenomenon we term 'animacy detection malfunction', whereupon the corpse, having both animate and inanimate attributes, creates states of fear/curiosity manifested as approach/avoidance behaviours in observers. We suggest that integrating diverse lines of evidence (including the 'uncanny valley' effect originating from the field of robotics) provides a promising way to advance the field, and conclude by proposing avenues for future research.This article is part of the theme issue 'Evolutionary thanatology: impacts of the dead on the living in humans and other animals'.}, }
@article {pmid30012745, year = {2018}, author = {Swift, K and Marzluff, JM}, title = {Occurrence and variability of tactile interactions between wild American crows and dead conspecifics.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {373}, number = {1754}, pages = {}, pmid = {30012745}, issn = {1471-2970}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Crows/*physiology ; *Death ; Feeding Behavior ; Information Storage and Retrieval ; *Motivation ; Territoriality ; Thanatology ; *Touch ; Washington ; }, abstract = {Observations of some mammals and birds touching their dead provoke questions about the motivation and adaptive value of this potentially risky behaviour. Here, we use controlled experiments to determine if tactile interactions are characteristic of wild American crow responses to dead crows, and what the prevalence and nature of tactile interactions suggests about their motivations. In Experiment 1, we test if food or information acquisition motivates contact by presenting crows with taxidermy-prepared dead crows, and two species crows are known to scavenge: dead pigeons and dead squirrels. In Experiment 2, we test if territoriality motivates tactile interactions by presenting crows with taxidermy crows prepared to look either dead or upright and life-like. In Experiment 1, we find that crows are significantly less likely to make contact but more likely to alarm call and recruit other birds in response to dead crows than to dead pigeons and squirrels. In addition, we find that aggressive and sexual encounters with dead crows are seasonally biased. These findings are inconsistent with feeding or information acquisition-based motivation. In Experiment 2, we find that crows rarely dive-bomb and more often alarm call and recruit other crows to dead than to life-like crows, behaviours inconsistent with responses given to live intruders. Consistent with a danger response hypothesis, our results show that alarm calling and neighbour recruitment occur more frequently in response to dead crows than other stimuli, and that touching dead crows is atypical. Occasional contacts, which take a variety of aggressive and sexual forms, may result from an inability to mediate conflicting stimuli.This article is part of the theme issue 'Evolutionary thanatology: impacts of the dead on the living in humans and other animals'.}, }
@article {pmid30008787, year = {2018}, author = {Reid, SNS and Ryu, JK and Kim, Y and Jeon, BH}, title = {The Effects of Fermented Laminaria japonica on Short-Term Working Memory and Physical Fitness in the Elderly.}, journal = {Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM}, volume = {2018}, number = {}, pages = {8109621}, pmid = {30008787}, issn = {1741-427X}, mesh = {Aged ; Antioxidants/metabolism/*pharmacology ; Biological Products/*pharmacology ; Cognitive Dysfunction/prevention &amp; control ; *Dietary Supplements ; Double-Blind Method ; Exercise Test ; Fermentation ; Glutathione Peroxidase/metabolism ; Humans ; Laminaria/*chemistry ; Memory, Short-Term/*drug effects ; Neurodegenerative Diseases/prevention &amp; control ; Neuroprotective Agents/*pharmacology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Physical Fitness ; Polysaccharides/pharmacology ; Seaweed/chemistry ; Superoxide Dismutase/metabolism ; Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances ; gamma-Aminobutyric Acid/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {Considering the neuroprotective and antioxidant potential of fermented Laminaria japonica A. (FST), the purpose of the present study is to establish whether FST may be considered a viable, efficacious supplement that can be administered in later life to offset neurodegenerative conditions associated with aging. Forty senior subjects participated in a randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled study. Two groups were formed, one FST group (n = 32, 72.35 ± 5.54 yrs) and one placebo (CON) (n = 28, 74.57 ± 5.69 yrs), which received 1.5 g/day of FST for 6 weeks. Subjects were asked to abstain from any regular exercise. In order to analyze short-term memory, a variety of neuropsychological tests were implemented. Body composition, physical fitness evaluations, antioxidant function, and inflammatory markers were also included in the analyses pre- and posttest. We demonstrated that FST significantly improved neuropsychological test scores, including higher scores in the K-MMSE, numerical memory test, Raven test, and iconic memory, compared to the CON group. Shorter test trial times in the 6-meter [corrected] walk test were observed in the FST group (p<0.001 and p<0.05, trials 1 and 2, respectively). FST also significantly increased antioxidant activity of GPx, GSR, and SOD, reduced the production of TBARS, and lowered 8-oxoDG levels. The present study highlights the potential widespread application of FST in protecting against the degenerative effects of aging on short-term memory and physical function. Neuropsychological evaluation indicates that FST may provide a protective mechanism against cognitive impairment associated with dementia. Neuromuscular integrity and physical function are typically compromised in aging and dementia patients; thus, whether by stimulation of muscle-related growth factors or an increase in serum BDNF, FST supplementation may act to preserve physical function in the elderly. The bioactive constituents of FST such as GABA and fucoidan acting to provide improvements in antioxidant activity following FST supplementation may protect against progressive degeneration purportedly caused by reactive oxygen species.}, }
@article {pmid30008510, year = {2018}, author = {Isaksson, E and Utku Urhan, A and Brodin, A}, title = {High level of self-control ability in a small passerine bird.}, journal = {Behavioral ecology and sociobiology}, volume = {72}, number = {7}, pages = {118}, pmid = {30008510}, issn = {0340-5443}, abstract = {ABSTRACT: Cognitively advanced animals are usually assumed to possess better self-control, or ability to decline immediate rewards in favour of delayed ones, than less cognitively advanced animals. It has been claimed that the best predictor of high such ability is absolute brain volume meaning that large-brained animals should perform better than small-brained ones. We tested self-control ability in the great tit, a small passerine. In the common test of this ability, the animal is presented with a transparent cylinder that contains a piece of food. If the animal tries to take the reward through the transparent wall of the cylinder, this is considered an impulsive act and it fails the test. If it moves to an opening and takes the reward this way, it passes the test. The average performance of our great tits was 80%, higher than most animals that have been tested and almost in level with the performance in corvids and apes. This is remarkable considering that the brain volume of a great tit is 3% of that of a raven and 0.1% of that of a chimpanzee.<br><br>SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The transparent cylinder test is the most common way to test the ability of self-control in animals. If an animal understands that it only can take food in the cylinder from the cylinder's opening and controls its impulsivity, it passes the test. A high level of self-control has been demonstrated only in cognitively advanced animals such as apes and corvids. Here, we demonstrate that the great tit, a small song bird that is very good at learning, performs almost in level with chimpanzees and ravens in this test.}, }
@article {pmid30002396, year = {2018}, author = {Gómez-Olivencia, A and Sala, N and Núñez-Lahuerta, C and Sanchis, A and Arlegi, M and Rios-Garaizar, J}, title = {First data of Neandertal bird and carnivore exploitation in the Cantabrian Region (Axlor; Barandiaran excavations; Dima, Biscay, Northern Iberian Peninsula).}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {10551}, pmid = {30002396}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Archaeology ; Body Remains ; Carnivory/*physiology ; Crows ; Eagles ; Europe ; Fossils ; Humans ; Lynx ; Neanderthals/*physiology ; Wolves ; }, abstract = {Neandertals were top predators who basically relied on middle- to large-sized ungulates for dietary purposes, but there is growing evidence that supports their consumption of plants, leporids, tortoises, marine resources, carnivores and birds. The Iberian Peninsula has provided the most abundant record of bird exploitation for meat in Europe, starting in the Middle Pleistocene. However, the bird and carnivore exploitation record was hitherto limited to the Mediterranean area of the Iberian Peninsula. Here we present the first evidence of bird and carnivore exploitation by Neandertals in the Cantabrian region. We have found cut-marks in two golden eagles, one raven, one wolf and one lynx remain from the Mousterian levels of Axlor. The obtaining of meat was likely the primary purpose of the cut-marks on the golden eagle and lynx remains. Corvids, raptors, felids and canids in Axlor could have likely acted as commensals of the Neandertals, scavenging upon the carcasses left behind by these hunter-gatherers. This could have brought them closer to Neandertal groups who could have preyed upon them. These new results provide additional information on their dietary scope and indicate a more complex interaction between Neandertals and their environment.}, }
@article {pmid29992421, year = {2019}, author = {Smulders, TV}, title = {Smarter through group living?.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {47}, number = {4}, pages = {275-276}, pmid = {29992421}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; *Cognition ; }, abstract = {Wild Australian magpies living (or growing up) in larger social groups take fewer trials to solve a battery of four cognitive tests than those living (or growing up) in smaller groups. The tests all draw on a common underlying factor, but is this factor cognitive or motivational?}, }
@article {pmid29991639, year = {2019}, author = {Valiente, R and Sureda, X and Bilal, U and Navas-Acien, A and Pearce, J and Franco, M and Escobar, F}, title = {Regulating the local availability of tobacco retailing in Madrid, Spain: a GIS study to evaluate compliance.}, journal = {Tobacco control}, volume = {28}, number = {3}, pages = {325-333}, doi = {10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2018-054269}, pmid = {29991639}, issn = {1468-3318}, mesh = {Commerce/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Geographic Information Systems ; Humans ; Schools/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Spain ; Tobacco Products/*economics/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In Spain, tobacco sales are limited to tobacco-exclusive stores and associated vending machines. A minimum of 150 m between stores is required, unless they exceed a legal sales threshold. Minimum distances to schools are recommended but not defined. We evaluated compliance with these regulations in Madrid, Spain.<br><br>METHODS: Information about tobacco-exclusive stores and their sales volume was obtained in 2014. We used geographic information system to identify stores closer than 150 m between them and examine whether they exceeded the sales threshold. We estimated distances between stores and schools, considering different distance intervals (<150&#x2009;m, 150-300&#x2009;m and >300&#x2009;m) and calculations (crow flies and street network). We assessed the association of area-level demographic and socioeconomic characteristics with the distribution of tobacco stores.<br><br>RESULTS: 5.3% (34/638) of tobacco stores were within 150&#x2009;m of each other. Among those, 76% (26/34) did not meet the regulation sales threshold. These stores were in areas with lower proportion of young population (<15 years) and higher proportion of people with university-level education. 75% (476/638) of stores were situated closer than 300&#x2009;m to schools. No differences were identified in sociodemographic and economic characteristics by the store distance to schools.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Most tobacco stores are compliant with the regulations in Spain. However, these regulations are insufficient to reduce tobacco availability. More restrictive regulations are needed to limit the geographic distribution of tobacco retailers, and health criteria should also be considered in the current legislation. The evaluation of the Spanish regulatory model may provide useful insights for other jurisdictions looking to decrease the tobacco retail availability.}, }
@article {pmid29983311, year = {2018}, author = {Dickerson, KL and Ainge, JA and Seed, AM}, title = {The Role of Association in Pre-schoolers' Solutions to "Spoon Tests" of Future Planning.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {28}, number = {14}, pages = {2309-2313.e2}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2018.05.052}, pmid = {29983311}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Child ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Memory, Episodic ; *Mental Recall ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {Imagining the future is a powerful tool for making plans and solving problems. It is thought to rely on the episodic system which also underpins remembering a specific past event [1-3]. However, the emergence of episodic future thinking over development and evolution is debated [4-9]. One key source of positive evidence in pre-schoolers and animals is the "spoon test" or item choice test [4, 10], in which participants encounter a problem in one context and then a choice of items in another context, one of which is the solution to the problem. A majority of studies report that most children choose the right item by age 4 [10-15, cf.16]. Apes and corvids have also been shown to pass versions of the test [17-19]. However, it has been suggested that a simpler mechanism could be driving choice: the participant simply chooses the item that has been assigned salience or value, without necessarily imagining the future event [16, 20-23]. We developed a new test in which two of the items offered to children were associated with positive outcomes, but only one was still useful. We found that older children (5-, 6-, and 7-year-olds) chose the correct item at above chance levels, but younger children (3- and 4-year-olds) did not. In further tests, 4-year-olds showed an intact memory for the encoding event. We conclude that positive association substantially impacts performance on item choice tests in 4-year-olds and that future planning may have a more protracted developmental trajectory than episodic memory.}, }
@article {pmid29975360, year = {2018}, author = {Wójciak, P and Rybakowski, J}, title = {Clinical picture, pathogenesis and psychometric assessment of negative symptoms of schizophrenia.}, journal = {Psychiatria polska}, volume = {52}, number = {2}, pages = {185-197}, doi = {10.12740/PP/70610}, pmid = {29975360}, issn = {2391-5854}, mesh = {Emotions ; Humans ; Interview, Psychological/*standards ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Psychological Tests/standards ; Psychotic Disorders/diagnosis ; Schizophrenia/*diagnosis ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Social Behavior ; Symptom Assessment/*standards ; }, abstract = {Negative symptoms of schizophrenia constitute a serious diagnostic and therapeutic problem. They substantially account for the impairment of health, social functioning and quality of life whereas treatment is difficult. In this paper the development of the concept of schizophrenia and negative symptoms is presented. The models of positive and negative symptoms, introduced in the 1980's by Timothy Crow and Nancy Andreasen, and William Carpenter's concept of so-called deficit syndrome with the criteria of the division of negative symptoms into the primary and secondary, are discussed. Current views on the pathogenesis of negative symptoms are shown with reference to neuroimaging studies, neurotransmitter alterations, neuropsychological deficits, genetic, immunological and epidemiological studies. A subsection is devoted to the diagnostics tools for negative symptoms. Chronologically, they are divided into scales of the 1st and 2nd generation. The first generation includes: the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), the Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms (SANS), the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), the Schedule for the Deficit Syndrome (SDS), and the Proxy for Deficit Syndrome. The second generation scales, developed as a result of the recommendation by American experts in 2006, include: the Brief Negative Syndrome Scale (BNSS) and the Clinical Assessment Interview for Negative Symptoms (CAINS), also the self-assessment scales: the Motivation and Pleasure Scale - Self Report (MAP-SR) and the Self-assessment of Negative Symptoms (SNS). The BNSS and the SNS scales, whose Polish versions were elaborated in the Department of Adult Psychiatry of Poznan University of Medical Sciences, are discussed in-depth.}, }
@article {pmid29962382, year = {2019}, author = {Chen, YM and Huang, CC and Hsiao, CY and Hu, S and Wang, IL and Sung, HC}, title = {Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) raven extract supplementation enhances muscle glycogen content and endurance exercise performance in mice.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {81}, number = {5}, pages = {667-674}, pmid = {29962382}, issn = {1347-7439}, mesh = {Animals ; Drugs, Chinese Herbal/*pharmacology ; Fatigue/*drug therapy ; Glycogen/analysis ; Male ; Mice, Inbred ICR ; Muscle, Skeletal/chemistry/drug effects ; Onagraceae/*chemistry ; Physical Endurance/*drug effects ; Swimming/physiology ; }, abstract = {Ludwigia octovalvis extract (LOE) is a widely used traditional Chinese herbal medicine. To date, few studies have demonstrated the effect of LOE supplementation on exercise performance, physical fatigue and biochemical profile. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the potential beneficial effects of LOE extract on fatigue and ergogenic functions following physiological challenge. Male ICR mice from 3 groups (n=8 per group) were orally administered LOE for 4 weeks at 0 (vehicle), 61.5 (LOE-1X) or 307.5 (LOE-5X) mg/kg/day. LOE supplementation was able to dose-dependently increase endurance swimming time (P<0.0001) and decrease levels of serum lactate (P=0.0022), ammonia (P<0.0001), creatine kinase (P<0.0001), blood urea nitrogen (P<0.0001) and glucose utilization (P<0.0001) after acute exercise challenge. The glycogen in gastrocnemius muscle also increased with LOE treatment in a dose-dependent manner (P<0.0001). Biochemically, AST, ALT, LDH, CK, BUN, creatinine and UA levels were decreased with LOE treatment. Our study shows that 4-week supplementation with LOE increases muscle glycogen content storage to enhance exercise performance and anti-fatigue effects.}, }
@article {pmid29958290, year = {2018}, author = {Williams, BK and Johnson, FA}, title = {Value of sample information in dynamic, structurally uncertain resource systems.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {13}, number = {6}, pages = {e0199326}, pmid = {29958290}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Bayes Theorem ; Decision Making ; *Fires ; Florida/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Models, Theoretical ; *Natural Resources ; }, abstract = {Few if any natural resource systems are completely understood and fully observed. Instead, there almost always is uncertainty about the way a system works and its status at any given time, which can limit effective management. A natural approach to uncertainty is to allocate time and effort to the collection of additional data, on the reasonable assumption that more information will facilitate better understanding and lead to better management. But the collection of more data, either through observation or investigation, requires time and effort that often can be put to other conservation activities. An important question is whether the use of limited resources to improve understanding is justified by the resulting potential for improved management. In this paper we address directly a change in value from new information collected through investigation. We frame the value of information in terms of learning through the management process itself, as well as learning through investigations that are external to the management process but add to our base of understanding. We provide a conceptual framework and metrics for this issue, and illustrate them with examples involving Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens).}, }
@article {pmid29958041, year = {2018}, author = {Hirst, RB and Conaboy, C and Vaughn, D and H Enriquez, R and Wickham, R}, title = {The "Jay-Dar" Phenomenon: Individuals Discriminate Cannabis Users from Nonusers Based Upon a Photograph.}, journal = {Substance use &amp; misuse}, volume = {53}, number = {14}, pages = {2359-2367}, doi = {10.1080/10826084.2018.1474228}, pmid = {29958041}, issn = {1532-2491}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; *Drug Users ; Female ; Humans ; *Judgment ; Male ; *Marijuana Use ; Middle Aged ; Social Perception ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: With increasing legalization of medicinal and recreational cannabis, use is on the rise. Research suggests individuals may be able to guess cannabis user status based upon appearance; however, these findings utilized a small sample of photographs that was not balanced on user status or gender. Further, no studies examined whether raters with cannabis experience are better at judging others' cannabis use, or what physical features they use to make these judgments. This study explored these factors using a larger, balanced photograph database.<br><br>METHOD: An American sample (n = 249, 48.6% female, mean age = 35.19&#xa0;years) rated 36 photographs (18 cannabis users, 18 nonusers) balanced on gender and age on the likelihood that the photographed individuals use cannabis, producing 8964 ratings. Respondents also reported physical features considered in their ratings, as well as their own cannabis use history.<br><br>RESULTS: As hypothesized, photographs of users received higher ratings on the Marijuana Use Likelihood Index relative to nonusers. Further, results revealed a gender by rater user status interaction, indicating that raters with no previous cannabis experience rated males higher than females, while raters with cannabis experience did not demonstrate this rating discrepancy. Cannabis use explained over 9% of the variance in ratings across all photographs.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest individuals do rate cannabis users as more likely to be users, relative to nonusers, based upon appearance alone. These findings have important implications, not only for research on chronic cannabis use effects, but also for social and achievement factors such as potential stigma.}, }
@article {pmid29955154, year = {2018}, author = {Jelbert, SA and Hosking, RJ and Taylor, AH and Gray, RD}, title = {Mental template matching is a potential cultural transmission mechanism for New Caledonian crow tool manufacturing traditions.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {8956}, pmid = {29955154}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Cognition/physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Food Dispensers, Automatic ; Imitative Behavior/physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Reward ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Cumulative cultural evolution occurs when social traditions accumulate improvements over time. In humans cumulative cultural evolution is thought to depend on a unique suite of cognitive abilities, including teaching, language and imitation. Tool-making New Caledonian crows show some hallmarks of cumulative culture; but this claim is contentious, in part because these birds do not appear to imitate. One alternative hypothesis is that crows' tool designs could be culturally transmitted through a process of mental template matching. That is, individuals could use or observe conspecifics' tools, form a mental template of a particular tool design, and then reproduce this in their own manufacture - a process analogous to birdsong learning. Here, we provide the first evidence supporting this hypothesis, by demonstrating that New Caledonian crows have the cognitive capacity for mental template matching. Using a novel manufacture paradigm, crows were first trained to drop paper into a vending machine to retrieve rewards. They later learnt that only items of a particular size (large or small templates) were rewarded. At test, despite being rewarded at random, and with no physical templates present, crows manufactured items that were more similar in size to previously rewarded, than unrewarded, templates. Our results provide the first evidence that this cognitive ability may underpin the transmission of New Caledonian crows' natural tool designs.}, }
@article {pmid29932821, year = {2018}, author = {Reeve, RA and Reynolds, F and Paul, J and Butterworth, BL}, title = {Culture-Independent Prerequisites for Early Arithmetic.}, journal = {Psychological science}, volume = {29}, number = {9}, pages = {1383-1392}, doi = {10.1177/0956797618769893}, pmid = {29932821}, issn = {1467-9280}, mesh = {*Aptitude ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Cross-Cultural Comparison ; Female ; Humans ; Linear Models ; Male ; *Mathematics ; Northern Territory ; Problem Solving ; Psychological Tests ; }, abstract = {In numerate societies, early arithmetic development is associated with visuospatial working memory, executive functions, nonverbal intelligence, and magnitude-comparison abilities. To what extent do these associations arise from cultural practices or general cognitive prerequisites? Here, we administered tests of these cognitive abilities (Corsi Blocks, Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, Porteus Maze) to indigenous children in remote northern Australia, whose culture contains few counting words or counting practices, and to nonindigenous children from an Australian city. The indigenous children completed a standard nonverbal addition task; the nonindigenous children completed a comparable single-digit addition task. The correlation matrices among variables in the indigenous and nonindigenous children showed similar patterns of relationships, and parallel regression analyses showed that visuospatial working memory was the main predictor of addition performance in both groups. Our findings support the hypothesis that the same cognitive capacities promote competence for learners in both numerate and nonnumerate societies.}, }
@article {pmid29926397, year = {2019}, author = {Hampton, R}, title = {Parallel overinterpretation of behavior of apes and corvids.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {47}, number = {2}, pages = {105-106}, pmid = {29926397}, issn = {1543-4508}, support = {P51 OD011132/OD/NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; *Hominidae ; }, abstract = {The report by Kabadayi and Osvath (Science, 357(6347), 202-204, 2017) does not demonstrate planning in ravens. The behavior of corvids and apes is fascinating and will be best appreciated through well-designed experiments that explicitly test alternative explanations and that are interpreted without unjustified anthropomorphic embellishment.}, }
@article {pmid29920164, year = {2018}, author = {Komar, N and Panella, NA and Golnar, AJ and Hamer, GL}, title = {Forage Ratio Analysis of the Southern House Mosquito in College Station, Texas.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {18}, number = {9}, pages = {485-490}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2018.2285}, pmid = {29920164}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*blood ; Culex/*physiology ; *Feeding Behavior ; Mammals/*blood ; Species Specificity ; Texas ; }, abstract = {Culex quinquefasciatus is the principal vector of West Nile virus (WNV) in the South Central United States, yet limited data on host utilization are available. We evaluated host utilization over a 3-month period in 2013 in a residential landscape in College Station, Texas. PCR sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 gene permitted molecular identification of vertebrate bloodmeals to the species level. Forage ratio analysis identified bird species that were overutilized and underutilized by comparing community feeding index values to expected relative abundance values of bird species, derived from eBird data. Community feeding index values were also used in conjunction with reservoir competence data from the literature to generate reservoir capacity index values, a means of identifying relative importance of vertebrate reservoir hosts. Of 498 blood-engorged Cx. quinquefasciatus, 313 (62.9%) were identified to vertebrate species. The majority (95.5%) of bloodmeals originated from avian species with the remainder from mammals, but not humans. Northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos) was the principal host for mosquito feeding in June and July, but northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) became primary host in August. Forage ratio analysis revealed the overutilization of house finch (Haemorhous mexicanus), American robin (Turdus migratorius), northern mockingbird, northern cardinal, white-winged dove (Zenaida asiatica), and mourning dove (Zenaida macroura). Great-tailed grackle (Quiscalus mexicanus), blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata), and Carolina wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus) were under-utilized relative to availability. Reservoir capacity calculations suggested that northern mockingbird and northern cardinal were the principal amplifiers in the study area. These data identify the primary avian species contributing to the enzootic amplification of WNV in East-Central Texas and reveal that the heavy feeding on moderately competent hosts and no feeding on humans likely limit epidemics in this region.}, }
@article {pmid29916087, year = {2018}, author = {Qian, SS and Cuffney, TF}, title = {The multiple-comparison trap and the Raven's paradox-perils of using null hypothesis testing in environmental assessment.}, journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment}, volume = {190}, number = {7}, pages = {409}, pmid = {29916087}, issn = {1573-2959}, mesh = {Computer Simulation ; Environmental Monitoring/*methods ; *Models, Statistical ; Probability ; Research Design ; }, abstract = {Detecting and quantifying environmental thresholds is frequently an important step in understanding ecological responses to environmental stressors. We discuss two statistical issues often encountered in threshold detection and quantification when statistical null hypothesis testing is used as a main analytical tool. The hidden multiple-comparison trap (leading to a much higher risk of a false detection) and Raven's paradox (rendering a "detection" meaningless) are often obscured when statistical hypothesis testing is used as part of a more elaborate model, especially models based on computer-intensive methods. Using two examples, we show that the hidden multiple-comparison trap can be exposed using computer simulation to estimate the probability of making a false detection; Raven's paradox can be avoided by clearly stating the null and alternative hypotheses using scientific terms to substantiate that the rejection of the null is equivalent to proving that the alternative of interest is true. The hidden multiple-comparison trap implies that a null hypothesis testing based on a computer-intensive method should be used with caution. The implication of Raven's paradox requires that we focus on providing evidence supporting the proposed hypothesis or model, rather than seeking evidence against the frequently irrelevant null hypothesis. These two problems, and many others related to null hypothesis testing, suggest that statistical hypothesis testing should be used only as a component of the body of evidence, perhaps, as the devil's advocate.}, }
@article {pmid33474285, year = {2018}, author = {Liu, R and Chen, R and Liu, J and Xiong, Y and Kan, X}, title = {Complete mitochondrial genome of Urocissa erythroryncha (Passeriformes: Corvidae).}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part B, Resources}, volume = {3}, number = {2}, pages = {691-692}, pmid = {33474285}, issn = {2380-2359}, abstract = {The complete mitochondrial genome of Urocissa erythroryncha is 16930 bp in length. It was predicted to contain 13 PCGs, 22 tRNA genes, and 2 rRNA genes, and a putative control region. All of the PCGs initiated with ATG, except for MT-COX1 which began with GTG and MT-ND3 began with ATA, while stopped by three types of stop codons. Phylogenetic analysis showed that Urocissa erythroryncha and the other species of Corvidae were monophyletic group in this study. And the monophyly of the genus Pyrrhocorax was strongly supported. Moreover, our results also support a sister-group relationship between Corvidae and Muscicapidae.}, }
@article {pmid29908383, year = {2018}, author = {Mwangala, PN and Kariuki, SM and Nyongesa, MK and Mwangi, P and Chongwo, E and Newton, CR and Abubakar, A}, title = {Cognition, mood and quality-of-life outcomes among low literacy adults living with epilepsy in rural Kenya: A preliminary study.}, journal = {Epilepsy &amp; behavior : E&amp;B}, volume = {85}, number = {}, pages = {45-51}, pmid = {29908383}, issn = {1525-5069}, support = {/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; MR/M025454/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; 107769/Z/15/Z/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; MR/M025454/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Affect/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Depression/complications/psychology ; Epilepsy/complications/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Kenya ; *Literacy ; Male ; *Mental Health ; Quality of Life/*psychology ; Rural Population ; Self Report ; Social Adjustment ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Epilepsy is frequently associated with neurocognitive impairments, mental health, and psychosocial problems but these are rarely documented in low- and middle-income countries. The aim of this study was to examine the neurocognitive outcomes, depressive symptoms, and psychosocial adjustments of people with epilepsy (PWE) in Kilifi, Kenya. We evaluated the impact of these outcomes on health-related quality of life. Self-report, interviewer-administered measures of depression (Major Depression Inventory) and quality of life (RAND SF-36) were administered to 63 PWE and 83 community controls. Neurocognitive functioning was assessed using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices, Digit Span, and Contingency Naming Test. The results show that PWE have poorer scores for executive function, working memory, intelligence quotient (IQ), depression, and quality of life than controls. Twenty-seven (27%) of PWE had depressive symptoms, which was significantly greater than in controls (6%); P < 0.001. Quality-of-life scores were significantly lower in PWE with depressive symptoms than in those without depressive symptoms (Mean QoL scores (standard deviation (SD)): 46.43 (13.27) versus 64.18 (17.69); P = 0.01. On adjusted linear regression models, depression affected total quality-of-life scores (P = 0.07) as well as individual health indicator domains touching on pain (P = 0.04), lethargy/fatigue (P = 0.01), and emotional well-being (P = 0.02). Our results show that epilepsy is associated with a significant burden of mental health and neurocognitive impairments in the community; however, community-based studies are needed to provide precise estimates of these disorders.}, }
@article {pmid29905106, year = {2018}, author = {Kruse, T and Zachariah, T and McManamon, R}, title = {T-cell Thymic Lymphoma With Proventricular Metastasis in a Florida Scrub Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens).}, journal = {Journal of avian medicine and surgery}, volume = {32}, number = {2}, pages = {128-132}, doi = {10.1647/2017-293}, pmid = {29905106}, issn = {1082-6742}, mesh = {Animals ; Autopsy/veterinary ; Biopsy, Fine-Needle/veterinary ; Bird Diseases/*pathology/surgery ; Fatal Outcome ; Female ; Immunohistochemistry/veterinary ; Lymphoma, T-Cell/pathology/surgery/*veterinary ; Neoplasm Metastasis ; *Passeriformes ; Proventriculus/*pathology ; Thymus Neoplasms/pathology/surgery/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {An adult, wild-caught, female Florida scrub jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) was evaluated because of an observable mass on the ventral neck. Initial physical examination and diagnostic tests were performed, which revealed a subcutaneous mass. Surgical removal of the mass was attempted, but the bird died during surgery. Results of necropsy and histopathologic evaluation identified the mass as thymic lymphoma with proventricular metastasis. Immunohistochemical staining revealed strong cytoplasmic immunoreactivity for CD3 in the thymic mass and within the predominant lymphoid population in the serosal proventricular masses, which confirmed metastasis of T-cell lymphoma. To our knowledge, this is the first report of T-cell thymic lymphoma in a wild Florida scrub jay.}, }
@article {pmid29898021, year = {2018}, author = {Mota-Veloso, I and Ramos-Jorge, ML and Homem, MA and Pordeus, IA and Paiva, SM and Oliveira-Ferreira, F}, title = {Dental caries in schoolchildren: influence of inattention, hyperactivity and executive functions.}, journal = {Brazilian oral research}, volume = {32}, number = {}, pages = {e52}, doi = {10.1590/1807-3107bor-2018.vol32.0052}, pmid = {29898021}, issn = {1807-3107}, mesh = {Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*complications/*epidemiology/physiopathology ; Brazil/epidemiology ; Caregivers ; Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; DMF Index ; Dental Caries/*epidemiology/*etiology/physiopathology/psychology ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parents ; Poisson Distribution ; Prevalence ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by inappropriate levels of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and/or inattention. Individuals with ADHD may present limitations with regard to executive functions and performing activities that involve planning and/or attention/concentration. The aim of the study was to investigate the association between dental caries and signs of ADHD in a representative sample of schoolchildren. A representative sample of 851 schoolchildren aged seven to 12 years was randomly selected from public and private schools. Data acquisition involved a clinical dental examination for cavitated permanent and deciduous teeth using the DMFT/dmft indices. Neuropsychological evaluations, including the assessment of intelligence (Raven's Colored Progressive Matrix Test) and executive functions (Corsi Tapping Blocks tests and Digit Span test) were also performed. Parents/caregivers and teachers answered the SNAP-IV Questionnaire for the investigation of signs of inattention and hyperactivity in the family and school environment. Parents/caregivers also answered questionnaires addressing socioeconomic and socio-demographic characteristics. Descriptive analysis of the variables and Poisson regression with robust variance were performed. Parental reports of signs of inattention (PR: 1.28; p < 0.05) and hyperactivity (PR: 1.15; p < 0.05) were associated with a greater occurrence of caries. A better performance on the backward order of the Corsi Tapping Blocks tests (PR: 0.94; p < 0.05) and higher level of mother's schooling were associated with a lower frequency of caries. A better performance on executive function tasks was a protective factor against dental caries, whereas children considered inattentive and/or hyperactive by their parents had a higher prevalence rate of dental caries.}, }
@article {pmid29891142, year = {2018}, author = {Hassan, MM and Hoque, MA and Ujvari, B and Klaassen, M}, title = {Live bird markets in Bangladesh as a potentially important source for Avian Influenza Virus transmission.}, journal = {Preventive veterinary medicine}, volume = {156}, number = {}, pages = {22-27}, doi = {10.1016/j.prevetmed.2018.05.003}, pmid = {29891142}, issn = {1873-1716}, mesh = {Animals ; Bangladesh/epidemiology ; Chickens ; *Commerce ; Influenza A virus ; Influenza in Birds/*epidemiology/prevention &amp; control/*transmission ; *Poultry ; }, abstract = {Live bird markets (LBM) are important for trading poultry in many developing countries where they are being considered hotspots of Avian Influenza Virus (AIV) prevalence and contamination. An active surveillance for Avian Influenza Virus (AIV) was conducted on four species of LBM birds (chickens, ducks, quails and pigeons) from 10 of the largest LBM in Chittagong, Bangladesh, and two species of peri-domestic wild birds (house crow and Asian pied starling) in their direct vicinity from November 2012 until September 2016. Our aim was to identify the scale and annual pattern of AIV circulation in both the LBM birds and the two per-domestic wild bird species living in close proximity of the LBM. In the latter two species, the annual pattern in AIV antibody prevalence was additionally investigated. A total of 4770 LBM birds and 1119 peri-domestic wild birds were sampled. We used rt-PCR for detection of the AIV M-gene and AIV subtypes H5, H7 and H9 from swab samples. We used c-ELISA for AIV antibody detection from serum samples of peri-domestic wild birds. Average AIV prevalence among the four LBM species varied between 16 and 28%, whereas no AIV was detected in peri-domestic wild birds by rt-PCR. In all LBM species we found significantly higher AIV prevalence in winter compared to summer. A similar pattern was found in AIV antibody prevalence in peri-domestic wild birds feeding in the direct vicinity of LBM. For the subtypes of AIV investigated, we found a significantly higher proportion of AIV H5 in LBM chickens and H9 in LBM ducks. No H7 was detected in any of the investigated samples. We conclude that AIV and notably AIV H5 and H9 were circulating in the investigated LBM of Bangladesh with clear seasonality that matched the prevalence of AIV antibodies of peri-domestic wild birds. These patterns show great resemblance to the annual outbreak patterns in Bangladeshi poultry industry. Our data suggest considerable exchange of AIV within and among the four LBM bird species and peri-domestic wild birds, which likely contributes to the maintenance of the AIV problems in Bangladesh. Increasing biosecurity and notably reducing the direct and indirect mixing of various domestic bird species and peri-domestic wild birds and developing all-in-all-out selling systems with regular use of disinfectant are likely to reduce the risk of transmission and spread of AIV, including HPAI.}, }
@article {pmid29888933, year = {2019}, author = {Malek, N and Messinger, D and Gao, AYL and Krumhuber, E and Mattson, W and Joober, R and Tabbane, K and Martinez-Trujillo, JC}, title = {Generalizing Duchenne to sad expressions with binocular rivalry and perception ratings.}, journal = {Emotion (Washington, D.C.)}, volume = {19}, number = {2}, pages = {234-241}, doi = {10.1037/emo0000410}, pmid = {29888933}, issn = {1931-1516}, support = {//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council/ ; //Canadian Institutes of Health Research/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Affect ; Face ; *Facial Expression ; *Facial Recognition ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Models, Biological ; *Vision Disparity ; *Vision, Binocular ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Discrete emotion theories emphasize the modularity of facial expressions, while functionalist theories suggest that a single facial action may have a common meaning across expressions. Smiles involving the Duchenne marker, eye constriction causing crow's feet, are perceived as intensely positive and sincere. To test whether the Duchenne marker is a general index of intensity and sincerity, we contrasted positive and negative expressions with and without the Duchenne marker in a binocular rivalry paradigm. Both smiles and sad expressions involving the Duchenne marker were perceived longer than non-Duchenne expressions, and participants rated all Duchenne expressions as more affectively intense and more sincere than their non-Duchenne counterparts. Correlations between perceptual dominance and ratings suggested that the Duchenne marker increased the dominance of smiles and sad expressions by increasing their perceived affective intensity. The results provide evidence in favor of Darwin's hypothesis that specific facial actions have a general function (conveying affect intensification and sincerity) across expressions. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid29881330, year = {2018}, author = {Singh, UA and Kumari, M and Iyengar, S}, title = {Method for improving the quality of genomic DNA obtained from minute quantities of tissue and blood samples using Chelex 100 resin.}, journal = {Biological procedures online}, volume = {20}, number = {}, pages = {12}, pmid = {29881330}, issn = {1480-9222}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Although genomic DNA isolation using the Chelex 100 resin is rapid and inexpensive, the DNA obtained by this method has a low concentration in solution and contains suspended impurities. The presence of debris in the DNA solution may result in degradation of DNA on long term storage and inhibition of the polymerase chain reaction. In order to remove impurities and concentrate the DNA in solution, we have introduced modifications in the existing DNA isolation protocol using Chelex-100. We used ammonium acetate to precipitate proteins and a sodium acetate- isopropanol mixture to pellet out DNA which was washed with ethanol.<br><br>RESULTS: A pure DNA pellet that can be dissolved in water or Tris-EDTA buffer and stored for a long time at -&#x2009;80&#xa0;&#xb0;C was obtained. We also observed a 20-fold change in the DNA concentration following precipitation and re-dissolution.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our method is different from other extraction methods since it uses non-toxic, easily available and inexpensive reagents as well as minimal amounts of blood or tissue samples for the DNA extraction process. Besides its use in sex determination and genotyping in lab animals as described in this paper, it may also have applications in forensic science and diagnostics such as the easy detection of pathogenic DNA in blood.}, }
@article {pmid29875298, year = {2018}, author = {Szipl, G and Ringler, E and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Attacked ravens flexibly adjust signalling behaviour according to audience composition.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {285}, number = {1880}, pages = {}, pmid = {29875298}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {*Aggression ; *Animal Communication ; Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; *Social Dominance ; }, abstract = {A fundamental attribute of social intelligence is the ability to monitor third-party relationships, which has been repeatedly demonstrated in primates, and recently also in captive ravens. It is yet unknown how ravens make use of this ability when dealing with different types of social relationships simultaneously during complex real-life situations. Free-ranging non-breeder ravens live in societies characterized by high fission-fusion dynamics and structured by age, pair-bond status and kinship. Here, we show that free-ranging ravens modify communication during conflicts according to audience composition. When being attacked by dominant conspecifics, victims of aggression signal their distress via defensive calls. Victims increased call rates when their kin were in the bystander audience, but reduced call rates when the bystanders were bonding partners of their aggressors. Hence, ravens use social knowledge flexibly and probably based on their own need (i.e. alert nearby allies and avoid alerting nearby rivals).}, }
@article {pmid33474277, year = {2018}, author = {Hsieh, HI and Hou, HY and Chang, RX and Cheng, YN and Jang-Liaw, NH}, title = {Complete mitochondrial genome sequence for the Taiwan Blue Magpie Urocissa caerulea (Passeriformes: Corvidae).}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part B, Resources}, volume = {3}, number = {2}, pages = {665-667}, pmid = {33474277}, issn = {2380-2359}, abstract = {Taiwan Blue Magpie (Urocissa caerulea) is endemic to Taiwan and listed as threatened species protected by law. In this study, we first determined and described the complete mitochondrial genome of Taiwan Blue Magpie. The circle genome is 16,928 bp in length, and contains 13 protein coding, 22 tRNA, two rRNA genes, and one non-coding control region (CR). The overall base composition of the mitochondrial DNA is 30.99% for A, 24.69% for T, 30.07% for C, and 14.25% for G. The percentage of G + C content is 44.32%. This work provides fundamental molecular data which will be useful for evolution and phylogeny studies on Corvidae in the future.}, }
@article {pmid29873844, year = {2019}, author = {Cavallini, M and Papagni, M and Gazzola, R}, title = {An objective method to assess the improvements of skin texture roughness after botulinum toxin type a treatment of crow's feet.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {25}, number = {1}, pages = {54-59}, doi = {10.1111/srt.12595}, pmid = {29873844}, issn = {1600-0846}, support = {4301148828//Allergan/ ; }, mesh = {Acetylcholine Release Inhibitors/*administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology ; Adult ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology ; Dermal Fillers/administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology ; Female ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Middle Aged ; Retrospective Studies ; Skin/*anatomy &amp; histology/drug effects ; Skin Aging/*drug effects/physiology ; Software ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Photo-numeric scales could lack precision and objectivity on evaluating the improvements on wrinkles after a treatment with botulinum toxin type A. The authors suggest a new digital evaluation method to analyze its effectiveness.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate retrospectively the effect of intramuscular injection of botulinum toxin type A on skin texture in the lateral peri-orbital region with a new objective method.<br><br>METHODS: Skin texture roughness (STR) in the lateral peri-orbital region is evaluated with a multi-directional light beam by light emitting diodes of different wavelengths (Antera 3D[&#xae;]), before and after injections of 12 units of botulinum toxin type A. The wrinkles and lines deeper than 0.5&#xa0;mm are filtered to measure accurately skin texture.<br><br>RESULTS: We observed an improvement of STR in all cases treated with botulinum toxin type A. A significant decrease of STR was recorded as follows: 17.08% (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;.0001) at 4&#xa0;weeks and 12.14% at 4&#xa0;months (P&#xa0;=&#xa0;.001).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Botulinum toxin type A treatment of crow's feet was able to improve STR. The Antera[&#xae;] device and software are a valuable, objective, easy and reproducible method to assess the effects of the toxin.}, }
@article {pmid29871743, year = {2018}, author = {Zeeh, F and Klausmann, S and Masserey, Y and Nathues, H and Perreten, V and Rohde, J}, title = {Isolation of Brachyspira hyodysenteriae from a crow (Corvus corone) in close proximity to commercial pigs.}, journal = {Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997)}, volume = {236}, number = {}, pages = {111-112}, doi = {10.1016/j.tvjl.2018.05.002}, pmid = {29871743}, issn = {1532-2971}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/microbiology/*transmission ; Brachyspira ; Brachyspira hyodysenteriae/*isolation &amp; purification ; *Crows ; Gram-Negative Bacterial Infections/microbiology/transmission/*veterinary ; Swine ; Swine Diseases/*microbiology/transmission ; Switzerland ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to determine whether crows (Corvus corone) can harbour Brachyspira hyodysenteriae, the cause of swine dysentery, and whether the organism carried by crows is related to strains infecting pigs. B. hyodysenteriae was isolated from one crow in close proximity to two pig farms in Switzerland. This isolate, along with five isolates of B. hyodysenteriae from one of the farms, belonged to sequence type (ST) 66 using multilocus sequence typing. This finding suggests that crows are potential vectors of B. hyodysenteriae, but further studies will be necessary to clarify the role of crows in the epidemiology of this organism.}, }
@article {pmid29870913, year = {2018}, author = {Oravcová, V and Peixe, L and Coque, TM and Novais, C and Francia, MV and Literák, I and Freitas, AR}, title = {Wild corvid birds colonized with vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium of human origin harbor epidemic vanA plasmids.}, journal = {Environment international}, volume = {118}, number = {}, pages = {125-133}, doi = {10.1016/j.envint.2018.05.039}, pmid = {29870913}, issn = {1873-6750}, mesh = {Animals ; *Enterococcus faecium/drug effects/genetics ; Gram-Positive Bacterial Infections/*microbiology/transmission/veterinary ; Humans ; Passeriformes/*microbiology ; Plasmids/genetics ; Vancomycin Resistance/*genetics ; *Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci/drug effects/genetics ; Zoonoses/*microbiology/transmission ; }, abstract = {The most prevalent type of acquired vancomycin resistance in Enterococcus faecium (VREfm) is encoded by the vanA transposon Tn1546, mainly located on transferable plasmids. vanA plasmids have been characterized in VREfm from a variety of sources but not wild birds. The aim of this study was to analyse the genetic context of VREfm strains recovered from wild corvid birds and to compare their plasmid and strain characteristics with human strains. To achieve that, 75 VREfm isolates, including strains from wild birds recovered during wide surveillance studies performed in Europe, Canada and the United States (2010-2013), and clinical and wastewater strains from Czech Republic, a region lacking data about vanA plasmids, were analysed. Their population structure, presence of major putative virulence markers and characterization of vanA transposons and plasmids were established. VREfm from wild birds were mainly associated with major human lineages (ST18 and ST78) circulating in hospitals worldwide and were enriched in putative virulence markers that are highly associated with clinical E. faecium from human infections. They also carried plasmids of the same families usually found in the clinical setting [RCR, small theta plasmids, RepA_N (pRUM/pLG1) and Inc18]. The clinically widespread IS1251-carrying Tn1546 type "F" was predominant and Tn1546-vanA was mainly located on pRUM/Axe-Txe (USA) and Inc18- or pLG1-like (Europe) plasmids. VREfm from hospitals and wastewaters carried Tn1546-vanA in different plasmid types including mosaic pRUM-Inc18 plasmids, not identified in wild birds. This is the first characterization of vanA plasmids obtained from wild birds. A similar plasmid pool seems to exist in different clonal E. faecium backgrounds of humans and wild birds. The isolation of VREfm strains from wild birds that belong to human E. faecium adapted lineages and carry virulence genes, Tn1546 and plasmid variants widespread in the clinical setting is of concern and highlight their role as potential drivers of the global dissemination of vancomycin resistance.}, }
@article {pmid29868262, year = {2018}, author = {Forti, LR and Foratto, RM and Márquez, R and Pereira, VR and Toledo, LF}, title = {Current knowledge on bioacoustics of the subfamily Lophyohylinae (Hylidae, Anura) and description of Ocellated treefrog Itapotihyla langsdorffii vocalizations.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {e4813}, pmid = {29868262}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Anuran vocalizations, such as advertisement and release calls, are informative for taxonomy because species recognition can be based on those signals. Thus, a proper acoustic description of the calls may support taxonomic decisions and may contribute to knowledge about amphibian phylogeny.<br><br>METHODS: Here we present a perspective on advertisement call descriptions of the frog subfamily Lophyohylinae, through a literature review and a spatial analysis presenting bioacoustic coldspots (sites with high diversity of species lacking advertisement call descriptions) for this taxonomic group. Additionally, we describe the advertisement and release calls of the still poorly known treefrog, Itapotihyla langsdorffii. We analyzed recordings of six males using the software Raven Pro 1.4 and calculated the coefficient of variation for classifying static and dynamic acoustic properties.<br><br>RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: We found that more than half of the species within the subfamily do not have their vocalizations described yet. Most of these species are distributed in the western and northern Amazon, where recording sampling effort should be strengthened in order to fill these gaps. The advertisement call of I.&#xa0;langsdorffii is composed of 3-18 short unpulsed notes (mean of 13 ms long), presents harmonic structure, and has a peak dominant frequency of about 1.4 kHz. This call usually presents amplitude modulation, with decreasing intensity along the sequence of notes. The release call is a simple unpulsed note with an average duration of 9 ms, and peak dominant frequency around 1.8 kHz. Temporal properties presented higher variations than spectral properties at both intra- and inter-individual levels. However, only peak dominant frequency was static at intra-individual level. High variability in temporal properties and lower variations related to spectral ones is usual for anurans; The first set of variables is determined by social environment or temperature, while the second is usually related to species-recognition process. Here we review and expand the acoustic knowledge of the subfamily Lophyohylinae, highlighting areas and species for future research.}, }
@article {pmid32026068, year = {2018}, author = {Martineli, AKB and Pizeta, FA and Loureiro, SR}, title = {Behavioral problems of school children: impact of social vulnerability, chronic adversity, and maternal depression.}, journal = {Psicologia, reflexao e critica : revista semestral do Departamento de Psicologia da UFRGS}, volume = {31}, number = {1}, pages = {11}, pmid = {32026068}, issn = {0102-7972}, support = {307394/2014-0//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq/Brazil)/ ; 307394 / 2014-0//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq/Brazil)/ ; }, abstract = {This study's objective was to identify the predictive effect of indicators concerning social vulnerability, chronic adversity, and maternal depression on behavioral problems among school-aged children, according to the perceptions of mothers and teachers, considering the presence or absence of difficulties in the contexts of family and school. A total of 85 pairs of mothers and school children were distributed into three groups according to the behavioral problems identified. A General Questionnaire, the PHQ-9, the Chronic Adversity Scale, and the (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire) SDQ were applied to the mothers; the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices were applied to the children; and the SDQ was applied to the teachers. Data were analyzed with descriptive, predictive, and comparative statistical procedures (p ≤ 0.05). The results reveal the presence of cumulative risks for children with behavioral problems; mothers more frequently identified behavioral problems than teachers; and maternal depression was a predictor for behavioral problems. Such findings are relevant for devising mental health programs.}, }
@article {pmid29860384, year = {2018}, author = {Kutilova, I and Janecko, N and Cejkova, D and Literak, I and Papagiannitsis, CC and Dolejska, M}, title = {Characterization of blaKPC-3-positive plasmids from an Enterobacter aerogenes isolated from a corvid in Canada.}, journal = {The Journal of antimicrobial chemotherapy}, volume = {73}, number = {9}, pages = {2573-2575}, doi = {10.1093/jac/dky199}, pmid = {29860384}, issn = {1460-2091}, mesh = {Animals ; Bacterial Proteins/*genetics ; Bird Diseases/*microbiology ; Canada ; *Crows ; Enterobacter aerogenes/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Enterobacteriaceae Infections/microbiology/*veterinary ; Plasmids/*analysis ; beta-Lactamases/*genetics ; }, }
@article {pmid29860368, year = {2018}, author = {Klein, HU and Zareba, W and Kutyifa, V}, title = {Arthur Jay Moss MD PhD: The cardiology world has again lost one of its most respected and worldwide-honoured scholars and experienced clinician. Born 21 June 1931, Professor of Medicine and Cardiology at Rochester University Medical Center, Rochester, NY, Arthur passed away on 14 February 2018 at the age of 86.}, journal = {European heart journal}, volume = {39}, number = {21}, pages = {1872-1874}, doi = {10.1093/eurheartj/ehy211}, pmid = {29860368}, issn = {1522-9645}, }
@article {pmid29858421, year = {2018}, author = {Rocha Mota, L and Motta, LJ and Duarte, IDS and Horliana, ACRT and Silva, DFTD and Pavani, C}, title = {Efficacy of phototherapy to treat facial ageing when using a red versus an amber LED: a protocol for a randomised controlled trial.}, journal = {BMJ open}, volume = {8}, number = {5}, pages = {e021419}, pmid = {29858421}, issn = {2044-6055}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aging ; *Color ; Elasticity ; *Face ; Female ; Humans ; *Light ; Middle Aged ; *Phototherapy ; Quality of Life ; Research Design ; *Skin ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The skin undergoes morphological and physiological changes with the advancing age of an individual. These changes may be caused by intrinsic and extrinsic factors that contribute to cellular ageing and consequent skin ageing. The term photoageing is used to characterise the ageing of the skin caused by solar radiation. Clinically, the skin becomes more flaccid, thicker and hyperpigmented, while there is an early appearance of wrinkles and other skin changes, such as skin cancer. Nowadays, there are numerous treatments for ageing skin, and one of them is with the use of phototherapy, which uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The objective of this study will be to evaluate the percentages of reduction in the volume of periocular wrinkles when treated with red and amber LEDs.<br><br>METHODS AND ANALYSIS: All of the participants will receive photobiomodulation to treat their periocular wrinkles. They will be using red and amber LEDs, with one colour being used on each hemiface. The facial side to be treated with each colour will be randomised. After an interval of 180 days, the participants will receive a cross-treatment. The primary variable of the study is the volume of periocular wrinkles (crow's feet), which will be measured by a VisioFace equipment. The secondary variables are elasticity (measured by Cutometer) and hydration (measured by Corneometer). Quality of life and self-assessment of the participants will be measured using the adapted Melasma Quality of Life scale - Brazilian Portuguese adaption (MelasQoL-BP) and Skindex-29 questionnaires. All of the variables will be measured before and after a group of 10 sessions.<br><br>ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This protocol was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Nove de Julho University (acceptance number: 2.550.732). This trial has been registered in the Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Cl&#xed;nicos (Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry) (REBEC number: RBR-6YFCBM). This study is not recruiting yet.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: RBR6YFCBM; Pre-results.}, }
@article {pmid29857494, year = {2018}, author = {Zrzavá, M and Hladová, I and Dalíková, M and Šíchová, J and Õunap, E and Kubíčková, S and Marec, F}, title = {Sex Chromosomes of the Iconic Moth Abraxas grossulariata (Lepidoptera, Geometridae) and Its Congener A. sylvata.}, journal = {Genes}, volume = {9}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {29857494}, issn = {2073-4425}, abstract = {The magpie moth, Abraxas grossulariata, is an iconic species in which female heterogamety was discovered at the beginning of the 20th century. However, the sex chromosomes of this species have not yet been cytologically identified. We describe the sex chromosomes of A. grossulariata and its congener, A. sylvata. Although these species split only around 9.5 million years ago, and both species have the expected WZ/ZZ chromosomal system of sex determination and their sex chromosomes share the major ribosomal DNA (rDNA) representing the nucleolar organizer region (NOR), we found major differences between their karyotypes, including between their sex chromosomes. The species differ in chromosome number, which is 2n = 56 in A. grossularita and 2n = 58 in A. sylvata. In addition, A. grossularita autosomes exhibit massive autosomal blocks of heterochromatin, which is a very rare phenomenon in Lepidoptera, whereas the autosomes of A. sylvata are completely devoid of distinct heterochromatin. Their W chromosomes differ greatly. Although they are largely composed of female-specific DNA sequences, as shown by comparative genomic hybridization, cross-species W-chromosome painting revealed considerable sequence differences between them. The results suggest a relatively rapid molecular divergence of Abraxas W chromosomes by the independent spreading of female-specific repetitive sequences.}, }
@article {pmid29797581, year = {2018}, author = {Paulson, S and Lombard, J and Pigliucci, M and Ruse, M and Smith, EE}, title = {The power of meaning: the quest for an existential roadmap.}, journal = {Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences}, volume = {1432}, number = {1}, pages = {10-28}, doi = {10.1111/nyas.13699}, pmid = {29797581}, issn = {1749-6632}, mesh = {*Happiness ; Humans ; *Philosophy ; *Quality of Life ; }, abstract = {Where can we turn to find the story of our lives-an existential roadmap that explains where we have come from, why we are here, and where we are headed? Must each of us discover meaning within the context of our individual lives, or are there universal sources of meaning that we can all access? Is there any relationship between living a meaningful life and the quality of our health and well-being? And how can we find meaning in the face of adversity and suffering? Neurologist Jay Lombard, philosophers Massimo Pigliucci and Michael Ruse, and author Emily Esfahani Smith shed light on these perennial questions in conversation with Steve Paulson, executive producer and host of To the Best of Our Knowledge.}, }
@article {pmid29795929, year = {2017}, author = {Zeller, F and Krampen, D and Reiß, S and Schweizer, K}, title = {Do Adaptive Representations of the Item-Position Effect in APM Improve Model Fit? A Simulation Study.}, journal = {Educational and psychological measurement}, volume = {77}, number = {5}, pages = {743-765}, pmid = {29795929}, issn = {1552-3888}, abstract = {The item-position effect describes how an item's position within a test, that is, the number of previous completed items, affects the response to this item. Previously, this effect was represented by constraints reflecting simple courses, for example, a linear increase. Due to the inflexibility of these representations our aim was to examine whether adapted representations are more appropriate than the existing ones. Models of confirmatory factor analysis were used for testing the different representations. Analyses were conducted by means of simulated data that followed the covariance pattern of Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM) items. Since the item-position effect has been demonstrated repeatedly for the APM, it is a very suitable measure for our investigations. Results revealed no remarkable improvement by using an adapted representation. Possible reasons causing these results are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid29794731, year = {2018}, author = {Tang, S and Sun, Z and Wu, X and Wang, YY and Zhang, J}, title = {An innovative thread-lift technique for facial rejuvenation and complication management: A case report.}, journal = {Medicine}, volume = {97}, number = {21}, pages = {e10547}, pmid = {29794731}, issn = {1536-5964}, mesh = {Blepharoptosis/*surgery ; Face/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Postoperative Complications ; Rejuvenation ; Rhytidoplasty/adverse effects/*methods ; Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {RATIONALE: Aging of face is an unavoidable process. Traditional procedures for facial rejuvenation have multiple disadvantages. In this case report, we used an innovative technique combining thread lift with small incision rhytidectomy for facial rejuvenation. Management for complication was also reported.<br><br>PATIENT CONCERNS: We presented a 52-year-old male with facial ptosis and wrinkles.<br><br>DIAGNOSES: The patient was diagnosed as facial aging including skin laxity, mid-face and mandibular jowl ptosis, static crows-feet wrinkles, and deepening nasolabial fold.<br><br>INTERVENTIONS: We used an innovative technique combining thread lift with small incision rhytidectomy to treat facial aging.<br><br>OUTCOMES: Improvements of the crow's feet, nasolabial fold, mid-face and lower face ptosis were observed. Complication of subcutaneous nodule was corrected with cosmetic effect of thread lift remained.<br><br>LESSONS: The innovative technique combining thread lift with small incision rhytidectomy is a good alternative for the treatment of facial aging.}, }
@article {pmid29793682, year = {2018}, author = {Tolnay, SE and Beck, EM and Sass, V}, title = {Migration and protest in the Jim Crow South.}, journal = {Social science research}, volume = {73}, number = {}, pages = {13-30}, pmid = {29793682}, issn = {1096-0317}, support = {P2C HD042828/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {The Great Migration and the Civil Rights Movement were two pivotal events experienced by the southern African American population during the 20th Century. Each has received considerable attention by social scientists and historians, and a possible connection between the two phenomena has been speculated. However, no systematic investigation of the effect of migration on protest during the Jim Crow era has been conducted. In this study we use data for 333 southern communities to examine the relationship between youthful black migration between 1950 and 1960 and the occurrence of sit-ins early in 1960. We find a strong positive, non-linear, relationship between net-migration and the likelihood of a sit-in which can be explained by two sets of mediating influences: local demographic conditions and local organizational presence. Our findings offer strong empirical support for an association between southern black migration and protest during Jim Crow and suggest the value of considering the influence of demographic forces on collective action.}, }
@article {pmid29790246, year = {2018}, author = {Roos, S and Smart, J and Gibbons, DW and Wilson, JD}, title = {A review of predation as a limiting factor for bird populations in mesopredator-rich landscapes: a case study of the UK.}, journal = {Biological reviews of the Cambridge Philosophical Society}, volume = {93}, number = {4}, pages = {1915-1937}, doi = {10.1111/brv.12426}, pmid = {29790246}, issn = {1469-185X}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Mammals/*physiology ; Population Density ; *Predatory Behavior ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {The impact of increasing vertebrate predator numbers on bird populations is widely debated among the general public, game managers and conservationists across Europe. However, there are few systematic reviews of whether predation limits the population sizes of European bird species. Views on the impacts of predation are particularly polarised in the UK, probably because the UK has a globally exceptional culture of intensive, high-yield gamebird management where predator removal is the norm. In addition, most apex predators have been exterminated or much depleted in numbers, contributing to a widely held perception that the UK has high numbers of mesopredators. This has resulted in many high-quality studies of mesopredator impacts over several decades. Here we present results from a systematic review of predator trends and abundance, and assess whether predation limits the population sizes of 90 bird species in the UK. Our results confirm that the generalist predators Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) and Crows (Corvus corone and C. cornix) occur at high densities in the UK compared with other European countries. In addition, some avian and mammalian predators have increased numerically in the UK during recent decades. Despite these high and increasing densities of predators, we found little evidence that predation limits populations of pigeons, woodpeckers and passerines, whereas evidence suggests that ground-nesting seabirds, waders and gamebirds can be limited by predation. Using life-history characteristics of prey species, we found that mainly long-lived species with high adult survival and late onset of breeding were limited by predation. Single-brooded species were also more likely to be limited by predation than multi-brooded species. Predators that depredate prey species during all life stages (i.e. from nest to adult stages) limited prey numbers more than predators that depredated only specific life stages (e.g. solely during the nest phase). The Red Fox and non-native mammals (e.g. the American Mink Neovison vison) were frequently identified as numerically limiting their prey species. Our review has identified predator-prey interactions that are particularly likely to result in population declines of prey species. In the short term, traditional predator-management techniques (e.g. lethal control or fencing to reduce predation by a small number of predator species) could be used to protect these vulnerable species. However, as these techniques are costly and time-consuming, we advocate that future research should identify land-use practices and landscape configurations that would reduce predator numbers and predation rates.}, }
@article {pmid29774435, year = {2018}, author = {Stow, MK and Vernouillet, A and Kelly, DM}, title = {Neophobia does not account for motoric self-regulation performance as measured during the detour-reaching cylinder task.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {21}, number = {4}, pages = {565-574}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-018-1189-8}, pmid = {29774435}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {312379-2009//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Attention ; Exploratory Behavior ; Fear ; *Learning ; Passeriformes/physiology ; *Self-Control ; }, abstract = {The ability to restrain a prepotent response in favor of a more adaptive behavior, or to exert inhibitory control, has been used as a measure of a species' cognitive abilities. Inhibitory control defines a spectrum of behaviors varying in complexity, ranging from self-control to motoric self-regulation. Several factors underlying inhibitory control have been identified, however, the influence of neophobia (i.e., aversion to novelty) on inhibitory control has not received much attention. Neophobia is known to affect complex cognitive abilities, but whether neophobia also influences more basic cognitive abilities, such as motoric self-regulation, has received less attention. Further, it remains unclear whether an individual's response to novelty is consistent across different paradigms purported to assess neophobia. We tested two North American corvid species, black-billed magpies (Pica hudsonia) and California scrub jays (Aphelocoma californica) using two well-established neophobia paradigms to assess response stability between contexts. We then evaluated neophobia scores against the number of trials needed to learn a motoric self-regulation task, as well as subsequent task performance. Neophobia scores did not correlate across paradigms, nor did the responses during either paradigm account for motoric self-regulation performance.}, }
@article {pmid29773973, year = {2018}, author = {Mayeli, M and Rahmani, F and Aarabi, MH}, title = {Comprehensive Investigation of White Matter Tracts in Professional Chess Players and Relation to Expertise: Region of Interest and DMRI Connectometry.}, journal = {Frontiers in neuroscience}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {288}, pmid = {29773973}, issn = {1662-4548}, abstract = {Purpose: Expertise is the product of training. Few studies have used functional connectivity or conventional diffusometric methods to identify neural underpinnings of chess expertise. Diffusometric variables of white matter might reflect these adaptive changes, along with changes in structural connectivity, which is a sensitive measure of microstructural changes. Method: Diffusometric variables of 29 professional chess players and 29 age-sex matched controls were extracted for white matter regions based on John Hopkin's Mori white matter atlas and partially correlated against professional training time and level of chess proficiency. Diffusion MRI connectometry was implemented to identify changes in structural connectivity in professional players compared to novices. Result: Compared to novices, higher planar anisotropy (CP) was observed in inferior longitudinal fasciculus (ILF), superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF) and cingulate gyrus, in professional chess players, which correlated with higher RPM score in this group. Higher fractional anisotropy (FA) was observed in ILF, uncinate fasciculus (UF) and hippocampus and correlated with better scores in Raven's progressive matrices (RPM) score and longer duration of chess training in professional players. Consistently, radial diffusivity in bilateral IFOF, bilateral ILF and bilateral SLF was inversely correlated with level of training in professional players. DMRI connectometry analysis identified increased connectivity in bilateral UF, bilateral IFOF, bilateral cingulum, and corpus callosum in chess player's compared to controls. Conclusion: Structural connectivity of major associational subcortical white matter fibers are increased in professional chess players. FA and CP of ILF, SLF and UF directly correlates with duration of professional training and RPM score, in professional chess players.}, }
@article {pmid29769348, year = {2018}, author = {Lau, SKP and Wong, EYM and Tsang, CC and Ahmed, SS and Au-Yeung, RKH and Yuen, KY and Wernery, U and Woo, PCY}, title = {Discovery and Sequence Analysis of Four Deltacoronaviruses from Birds in the Middle East Reveal Interspecies Jumping with Recombination as a Potential Mechanism for Avian-to-Avian and Avian-to-Mammalian Transmission.}, journal = {Journal of virology}, volume = {92}, number = {15}, pages = {}, pmid = {29769348}, issn = {1098-5514}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bird Diseases/genetics/transmission ; Birds/*virology ; *Coronaviridae Infections/genetics/transmission/veterinary ; *Coronavirus/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity ; *High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; Saudi Arabia ; Swine/*virology ; }, abstract = {The emergence of Middle East respiratory syndrome showed once again that coronaviruses (CoVs) in animals are potential source for epidemics in humans. To explore the diversity of deltacoronaviruses in animals in the Middle East, we tested fecal samples from 1,356 mammals and birds in Dubai, The United Arab Emirates. Four novel deltacoronaviruses were detected from eight birds of four species by reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR): FalCoV UAE-HKU27 from a falcon, HouCoV UAE-HKU28 from a houbara bustard, PiCoV UAE-HKU29 from a pigeon, and QuaCoV UAE-HKU30 from five quails. Complete genome sequencing showed that FalCoV UAE-HKU27, HouCoV UAE-HKU28, and PiCoV UAE-HKU29 belong to the same CoV species, suggesting recent interspecies transmission between falcons and their prey, houbara bustards and pigeons, possibly along the food chain. Western blotting detected specific anti-FalCoV UAE-HKU27 antibodies in 33 (75%) of 44 falcon serum samples, supporting genuine infection in falcons after virus acquisition. QuaCoV UAE-HKU30 belongs to the same CoV species as porcine coronavirus HKU15 (PorCoV HKU15) and sparrow coronavirus HKU17 (SpCoV HKU17), discovered previously from swine and tree sparrows, respectively, supporting avian-to-swine transmission. Recombination involving the spike protein is common among deltacoronaviruses, which may facilitate cross-species transmission. FalCoV UAE-HKU27, HouCoV UAE-HKU28, and PiCoV UAE-HKU29 originated from recombination between white-eye coronavirus HKU16 (WECoV HKU16) and magpie robin coronavirus HKU18 (MRCoV HKU18), QuaCoV UAE-HKU30 from recombination between PorCoV HKU15/SpCoV HKU17 and munia coronavirus HKU13 (MunCoV HKU13), and PorCoV HKU15 from recombination between SpCoV HKU17 and bulbul coronavirus HKU11 (BuCoV HKU11). Birds in the Middle East are hosts for diverse deltacoronaviruses with potential for interspecies transmission.IMPORTANCE During an attempt to explore the diversity of deltacoronaviruses among mammals and birds in Dubai, four novel deltacoronaviruses were detected in fecal samples from eight birds of four different species: FalCoV UAE-HKU27 from a falcon, HouCoV UAE-HKU28 from a houbara bustard, PiCoV UAE-HKU29 from a pigeon, and QuaCoV UAE-HKU30 from five quails. Genome analysis revealed evidence of recent interspecies transmission between falcons and their prey, houbara bustards and pigeons, possibly along the food chain, as well as avian-to-swine transmission. Recombination, which is known to occur frequently in some coronaviruses, was also common among these deltacoronaviruses and occurred predominantly at the spike region. Such recombination, involving the receptor binding protein, may contribute to the emergence of new viruses capable of infecting new hosts. Birds in the Middle East are hosts for diverse deltacoronaviruses with potential for interspecies transmission.}, }
@article {pmid29768124, year = {2018}, author = {Fronzetti Colladon, A and Grippa, F}, title = {The Importance of Being Honest: Correlating Self-Report Accuracy and Network Centrality with Academic Performance.}, journal = {The Journal of psychology}, volume = {152}, number = {5}, pages = {304-324}, doi = {10.1080/00223980.2018.1459443}, pmid = {29768124}, issn = {1940-1019}, mesh = {Academic Performance/*psychology/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Deception ; Engineering/education ; Female ; Friends/psychology ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Personality ; Self Report/*standards ; Students/*psychology/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Trust/psychology ; *Truth Disclosure ; Universities ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {This study investigates the correlation of self-report accuracy with academic performance. The sample was composed of 289 undergraduate students (96 senior and 193 junior) enrolled in two engineering classes. Age ranged between 22 and 24 years, with a slight over representation of male students (53%). Academic performance was calculated based on students' final grades in each class. The tendency to report inaccurate information was measured at the end of the Raven Progressive Matrices Test, by asking students to report their exact finishing times. We controlled for gender, age, personality traits, intelligence, and past academic performance. We also included measures of centrality in their friendship, advice and trust networks. Correlation and multiple regression analyses results indicate that lower achieving students were significantly less accurate in self-reporting data. We also found that being more central in the advice network was correlated with higher performance (r = .20, p < .001). The results are aligned with existing literature emphasizing the individual and relational factors associated with academic performance and, pending future studies, may be utilized to include a new metric of self-report accuracy that is not dependent on academic records.}, }
@article {pmid29764777, year = {2018}, author = {Monshizadeh, L and Vameghi, R and Sajedi, F and Yadegari, F and Hashemi, SB and Kirchem, P and Kasbi, F}, title = {Comparison of Social Interaction between Cochlear-Implanted Children with Normal Intelligence Undergoing Auditory Verbal Therapy and Normal-Hearing Children: A Pilot Study.}, journal = {The journal of international advanced otology}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {34-38}, pmid = {29764777}, issn = {1308-7649}, mesh = {Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cochlear Implantation/*adverse effects/methods ; Cochlear Implants/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Correction of Hearing Impairment/methods ; Female ; Hearing/*physiology ; Hearing Loss, Sensorineural/*surgery ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Interpersonal Relations ; Iran/epidemiology ; Language Development ; Male ; Speech Perception/physiology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: A cochlear implant is a device that helps hearing-impaired children by transmitting sound signals to the brain and helping them improve their speech, language, and social interaction. Although various studies have investigated the different aspects of speech perception and language acquisition in cochlear-implanted children, little is known about their social skills, particularly Persian-speaking cochlear-implanted children. Considering the growing number of cochlear implants being performed in Iran and the increasing importance of developing near-normal social skills as one of the ultimate goals of cochlear implantation, this study was performed to compare the social interaction between Iranian cochlear-implanted children who have undergone rehabilitation (auditory verbal therapy) after surgery and normal-hearing children.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: This descriptive-analytical study compared the social interaction level of 30 children with normal hearing and 30 with cochlear implants who were conveniently selected. The Raven test was administered to the both groups to ensure normal intelligence quotient. The social interaction status of both groups was evaluated using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale, and statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.<br><br>RESULTS: After controlling age as a covariate variable, no significant difference was observed between the social interaction scores of both the groups (p > 0.05). In addition, social interaction had no correlation with sex in either group.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Cochlear implantation followed by auditory verbal rehabilitation helps children with sensorineural hearing loss to have normal social interactions, regardless of their sex.}, }
@article {pmid29743545, year = {2018}, author = {Woods, RD and Kings, M and McIvor, GE and Thornton, A}, title = {Caller characteristics influence recruitment to collective anti-predator events in jackdaws.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {7343}, pmid = {29743545}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {BB/H021817/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/H021817/2/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; 630051486/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {*Animal Communication ; Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Social Behavior ; *Social Responsibility ; Vocalization, Animal/physiology ; }, abstract = {Across the animal kingdom, examples abound of individuals coming together to repel external threats. When such collective actions are initiated by recruitment signals, individuals may benefit from being selective in whom they join, so the identity of the initiator may determine the magnitude of the group response. However, the role of signaller discrimination in coordinating group-level responses has yet to be tested. Here we show that in wild jackdaws, a colonial corvid species, collective responses to anti-predator recruitment calls are mediated by caller characteristics. In playbacks next to nestboxes, the calls of nestbox residents attracted most recruits, followed in turn by other colony members, non-colony members and rooks (a sympatric corvid). Playbacks in fields outside nestbox colonies, where the immediate threat to broods was lower, showed similar results, with highest recruitment to nearby colony members' calls. Responses were further influenced by caller sex: calls from non-colony member females were less likely to elicit responsive scolding by recruits than other calls, potentially reflecting social rank associated with sex and colony membership. These results show that vocal discrimination mediates jackdaws' collective responses and highlight the need for further research into the cognitive basis of collective actions in animal groups.}, }
@article {pmid29719531, year = {2018}, author = {Rohde, F and Schusser, B and Hron, T and Farkašová, H and Plachý, J and Härtle, S and Hejnar, J and Elleder, D and Kaspers, B}, title = {Characterization of Chicken Tumor Necrosis Factor-α, a Long Missed Cytokine in Birds.}, journal = {Frontiers in immunology}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {605}, pmid = {29719531}, issn = {1664-3224}, mesh = {Animals ; Avian Proteins/*genetics/metabolism ; CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes/*immunology ; Cells, Cultured ; Chickens/*immunology ; Cloning, Molecular ; Crows/immunology ; GC Rich Sequence/genetics ; Humans ; Macrophages/*immunology ; Mammals/immunology ; NF-kappa B/metabolism ; Palaeognathae/immunology ; Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor/*genetics/metabolism ; Sequence Alignment ; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) is a pleiotropic cytokine playing critical roles in host defense and acute and chronic inflammation. It has been described in fish, amphibians, and mammals but was considered to be absent in the avian genomes. Here, we report on the identification and functional characterization of the avian ortholog. The chicken TNF-α (chTNF-α) is encoded by a highly GC-rich gene, whose product shares with its mammalian counterpart 45% homology in the extracellular part displaying the characteristic TNF homology domain. Orthologs of chTNF-α were identified in the genomes of 12 additional avian species including Palaeognathae and Neognathae, and the synteny of the closely adjacent loci with mammalian TNF-α orthologs was demonstrated in the crow (Corvus cornix) genome. In addition to chTNF-α, we obtained full sequences for homologs of TNF-α receptors 1 and 2 (TNFR1, TNFR2). chTNF-α mRNA is strongly induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation of monocyte derived, splenic and bone marrow macrophages, and significantly upregulated in splenic tissue in response to i.v. LPS treatment. Activation of T-lymphocytes by TCR crosslinking induces chTNF-α expression in CD4[+] but not in CD8[+] cells. To gain insights into its biological activity, we generated recombinant chTNF-α in eukaryotic and prokaryotic expression systems. Both, the full-length cytokine and the extracellular domain rapidly induced an NFκB-luciferase reporter in stably transfected CEC-32 reporter cells. Collectively, these data provide strong evidence for the existence of a fully functional TNF-α/TNF-α receptor system in birds thus filling a gap in our understanding of the evolution of cytokine systems.}, }
@article {pmid33870100, year = {2018}, author = {Hudson, TB and Yuan, FG}, title = {Automated In-Process Cure Monitoring of Composite Laminates Using a Guided Wave-Based System With High-Temperature Piezoelectric Transducers.}, journal = {Journal of nondestructive evaluation, diagnostics and prognostics of engineering systems}, volume = {1}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {33870100}, issn = {2572-3898}, support = {/ARMD/Aeronautics NASA/United States ; }, abstract = {An in-process cure monitoring technique based on "guided wave" concept for carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites was developed. Key parameters including physical properties (viscosity and degree of cure) and state transitions (gelation and vitrification) during the cure cycle were clearly identified experimentally from the amplitude and group velocity of guided waves, validated via the semi-empirical cure process modeling software RAVEN. Using the newly developed cure monitoring system, an array of high-temperature piezoelectric transducers acting as an actuator and sensors were employed to excite and sense guided wave signals, in terms of voltage, through unidirectional composite panels fabricated from Hexcel® IM7/8552 prepreg during cure in an oven. Average normalized peak voltage, which pertains to the wave amplitude, was selected as a metric to describe the guided waves phenomena throughout the entire cure cycle. During the transition from rubbery to glassy state, the group velocity of the guided waves was investigated for connection with degree of cure, Tg, and mechanical properties. This work demonstrated the feasibility of in-process cure monitoring and continued progress toward a closed-loop process control to maximize composite part quality and consistency.}, }
@article {pmid29706882, year = {2018}, author = {Tabei, KI and Satoh, M and Ogawa, JI and Tokita, T and Nakaguchi, N and Nakao, K and Kida, H and Tomimoto, H}, title = {Cognitive Function and Brain Atrophy Predict Non-pharmacological Efficacy in Dementia: The Mihama-Kiho Scan Project2.}, journal = {Frontiers in aging neuroscience}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {87}, pmid = {29706882}, issn = {1663-4365}, abstract = {We aimed to determine whether neuropsychological deficits and brain atrophy could predict the efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions. Forty-six participants with mild-to-moderate dementia were monitored for 6 months; 25 underwent an intervention involving physical exercise with music, and 21 performed cognitive stimulation tasks. Participants were categorized into improvement (IMP) and no-IMP subgroups. In the exercise-with-music group, the no-IMP subgroup performed worse than the IMP subgroup on the Rivermead Behavioural Memory Test at baseline. In the cognitive-stimulation group, the no-IMP subgroup performed worse than the IMP subgroup on Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices and the cognitive functional independence measure at baseline. In the no-IMP subgroup, voxel-based morphometric analysis at baseline revealed more extensive gray matter loss in the anterior cingulate gyrus and left middle frontal gyrus in the exercise-with-music and cognitive-stimulation groups, respectively. Participants with mild-to-moderate dementia with cognitive decline and extensive cortical atrophy are less likely to show improved cognitive function after non-pharmaceutical therapy.}, }
@article {pmid29690109, year = {2018}, author = {Hammer, MP and Allen, GR and Martin, KC and Adams, M and Ebner, BC and Raadik, TA and Unmack, PJ}, title = {Revision of the Australian Wet Tropics endemic rainbowfish genus Cairnsichthys (Atheriniformes: Melanotaeniidae), with description of a new species.}, journal = {Zootaxa}, volume = {4413}, number = {2}, pages = {271-294}, doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.4413.2.3}, pmid = {29690109}, issn = {1175-5334}, mesh = {Animal Distribution ; Animals ; Australia ; Ecosystem ; *Fishes ; Male ; Queensland ; }, abstract = {The freshwater melanotaeniid genus Cairnsichthys is endemic to a relatively small area of specialised habitat within the Wet Tropics bioregion of north-eastern Queensland, Australia. It was previously considered as monotypic, including only a single species, C. rhombosomoides (Nichols Raven, 1928). The recent discovery of an apparently-isolated population in the Daintree rainforest, approximately 120 km north of the known range extent, prompted a detailed investigation of its taxonomic status using a combined lines of evidence approach. We provide compelling evidence from multiple nuclear genetic markers (52 allozyme loci), mitochondrial DNA sequence data (1141 bp cytochrome b) and morphology (examination of a suite of 38 morphometric and meristic characters) that supports north-south splitting of C. rhombosomoides. Accordingly, we describe the northern population as a distinct species, C. bitaeniatus sp. nov., on the basis of 25 specimens, 34.7-65.6 mm SL. The new species differs morphologically primarily by having a more slender and narrow shape, featuring a flatter, straighter predorsal profile and shorter second dorsal fin base; possession of slightly smaller scales, reflected in higher counts of lateral scales and predorsal scales; typically more vertebrae; and colour differences including a more robust, short black stripe across the upper operculum, a pronounced yellow patch on the anteroventral body and usually a more conspicuous second dark stripe on the lower body, with adult males generally having yellowish compared to reddish fins. We also provide a generic diagnosis for Cairnsichthys and a redescription of C. rhombosomoides. Information on the known distribution, habitats and conservation status of species in the genus is summarised, the new species being of particular concern as a narrow range endemic with specific environmental requirements.}, }
@article {pmid29680766, year = {2018}, author = {Osvath, M and Kabadayi, C}, title = {Contrary to the Gospel, Ravens Do Plan Flexibly.}, journal = {Trends in cognitive sciences}, volume = {22}, number = {6}, pages = {474-475}, doi = {10.1016/j.tics.2018.03.011}, pmid = {29680766}, issn = {1879-307X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; }, }
@article {pmid29675942, year = {2018}, author = {Janecko, N and Halova, D and Jamborova, I and Papousek, I and Masarikova, M and Dolejska, M and Literak, I}, title = {Occurrence of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance genes in Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp. recovered from Corvus brachyrhynchos and Corvus corax roosting in Canada.}, journal = {Letters in applied microbiology}, volume = {67}, number = {2}, pages = {130-135}, doi = {10.1111/lam.12993}, pmid = {29675942}, issn = {1472-765X}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/*pharmacology ; Bird Diseases/*drug therapy/microbiology ; Canada ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Crows/*microbiology ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial/*genetics ; Escherichia coli/*drug effects/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Escherichia coli Infections/drug therapy/microbiology ; Humans ; Klebsiella Infections/drug therapy/microbiology ; Klebsiella pneumoniae/*drug effects/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; Plasmids/*genetics ; Quinolones/*pharmacology ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: The spread of antimicrobial resistance from human activity derived sources to natural habitats implicates wildlife as potential vectors of antimicrobial resistance transfer. Wild birds, including corvid species can disseminate mobile genetic resistance determinants through faeces. This study aimed to determine the occurrence of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) genes in Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp. isolates obtained from winter roosting sites of American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and common ravens (Corvus corax) in Canada. Faecal swabs were collected at five roosting sites across Canada. Selective media isolation and multiplex PCR screening was utilized to identify PMQR genes followed by gene sequencing, pulse-field gel electrophoresis and multilocus sequence typing to characterize isolates. Despite the low prevalence of E. coli containing PMQR (1·3%, 6/449), qnrS1, qnrB19, qnrC, oqxAB and aac(6')-Ib-cr genes were found in five sequence types (ST), including E. coli ST 131. Conversely, one isolate of Klebsiella pneumoniae contained the plasmid-mediated resistance gene qnrB19. Five different K. pneumoniae STs were identified, including two novel types. The occurrence of PMQR genes and STs of public health significance in E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae recovered from corvids gives further evidence of the anthropogenic derived dissemination of antimicrobial resistance determinants at the human activity-wildlife-environment interface.<br><br>This study examined large corvids as possible vector species for the dissemination of antimicrobial resistance in indicator and pathogenic bacteria as a means to assess the anthropogenic dissemination of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) genes. Although rare, PMQR genes were found among corvid populations across Canada. The clinically important Escherichia coli strain ST131 containing aac(6')-Ib-cr gene along with a four-class phenotypic antimicrobial resistance (AMR) pattern as well as one Klebsiella pneumoniae strain containing a qnrB19 gene were identified in one geographical location. Corvids are a viable vector for the circulation of PMQR genes and clinically important clones in wide-ranging environments.}, }
@article {pmid29675138, year = {2018}, author = {Hu, L and Jiang, L and Bi, K and Liao, H and Yang, Z and Huang, X and Bao, Z}, title = {Genomic in situ hybridization in interspecific hybrids of scallops (Bivalvia, Pectinidae) and localization of the satellite DNA Cf303, and the vertebrate telomeric sequences (TTAGGG)n on chromosomes of scallop Chlamys farreri (Jones &amp; Preston, 1904).}, journal = {Comparative cytogenetics}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {83-95}, pmid = {29675138}, issn = {1993-0771}, abstract = {Mitotic chromosome preparations of the interspecific hybrids Chlamys farreri (Jones &amp; Preston, 1904) × Patinopecten yessoensis (Jay, 1857), C. farreri × Argopecten irradians (Lamarck, 1819) and C. farreri × Mimachlamys nobilis (Reeve, 1852) were used to compare two different scallop genomes in a single slide. Although genomic in situ hybridization (GISH) using genomic DNA from each scallop species as probe painted mitotic chromosomes of the interspecific hybrids, the painting results were not uniform; instead it showed species-specific distribution patterns of fluorescent signals among the chromosomes. The most prominent GISH-bands were mainly located at centromeric or telomeric regions of scallop chromosomes. In order to illustrate the sequence constitution of the GISH-bands, the satellite Cf303 sequences of C. farreri and the vertebrate telomeric (TTAGGG)n sequences were used to map mitotic chromosomes of C. farreri by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The results indicated that the GISH-banding pattern presented by the chromosomes of C. farreri is mainly due to the distribution of the satellite Cf303 DNA, therefore suggesting that the GISH-banding patterns found in the other three scallops could also be the result of the chromosomal distribution of other species-specific satellite DNAs.}, }
@article {pmid29674990, year = {2018}, author = {Ibernon, L and Touchet, C and Pochon, R}, title = {Emotion Recognition as a Real Strength in Williams Syndrome: Evidence From a Dynamic Non-verbal Task.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {463}, pmid = {29674990}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {The hypersocial profile characterizing individuals with Williams syndrome (WS), and particularly their attraction to human faces and their desire to form relationships with other people, could favor the development of their emotion recognition capacities. This study seeks to better understand the development of emotion recognition capacities in WS. The ability to recognize six emotions was assessed in 15 participants with WS. Their performance was compared to that of 15 participants with Down syndrome (DS) and 15 typically developing (TD) children of the same non-verbal developmental age, as assessed with Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM; Raven et al., 1998). The analysis of the three groups' results revealed that the participants with WS performed better than the participants with DS and also than the TD children. Individuals with WS performed at a similar level to TD participants in terms of recognizing different types of emotions. The study of development trajectories confirmed that the participants with WS presented the same development profile as the TD participants. These results seem to indicate that the recognition of emotional facial expressions constitutes a real strength in people with WS.}, }
@article {pmid29673693, year = {2018}, author = {Mcleish, K and Ferguson, S and Gannicliffe, C and Campbell, S and Thomson, PIT and Webster, LMI}, title = {Profiling in wildlife crime: Recovery of human DNA deposited outside.}, journal = {Forensic science international. Genetics}, volume = {35}, number = {}, pages = {65-69}, doi = {10.1016/j.fsigen.2018.04.002}, pmid = {29673693}, issn = {1878-0326}, mesh = {Animals ; Conservation of Natural Resources/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; *Crime ; DNA/*isolation &amp; purification ; *DNA Fingerprinting ; Environment ; Forensic Genetics ; Humans ; *Touch ; }, abstract = {Incidents of bird of prey persecution receive a lot of media coverage in the UK, with investigations rarely recovering sufficient evidence to proceed to prosecution. One of the main challenges is to identify a suspect, as these offences are carried out in remote locations without witnesses, and crime scenes may not be found for days. However, traps, poisoned baits and bird of prey carcasses can be recovered from these crime scenes. This study aimed to determine whether reportable human DNA profiles could be recovered from any of these substrates after periods of time outside. Experiments depositing human touch DNA on duplicate substrates (traps, rabbit baits and corvid carcasses) set for 0, 1, 2, 4, 7 and 10 days outside were carried out, with DNA recovery and profiling following standard operating procedures for Scottish Police Authority Forensic Services. Weather conditions varied among experiments, including some heavy rainfall. Results demonstrated that it was possible to obtain reportable DNA profiles from all substrates after at least 1 day outside. Most promisingly, the traps showed no drop-off in DNA persistence over the experiments as complete DNA profiles were obtained after the full 10 days outside. A further experiment using 4 bird of prey carcasses confirmed that it is possible to obtain reportable human DNA profiles from them after 1 day outside (n = 2 reportable profiles). These results show that touch DNA can persist in an outdoor environment, and provide a tantalising avenue for inquiry in bird of prey persecution investigations.}, }
@article {pmid29667522, year = {2019}, author = {Mendes, PVB and Gradim, LCC and Silva, NS and Allegretti, ALC and Carrijo, DCM and Cruz, DMCD}, title = {Pressure distribution analysis in three wheelchairs cushions of subjects with spinal cord injury.}, journal = {Disability and rehabilitation. Assistive technology}, volume = {14}, number = {6}, pages = {555-560}, doi = {10.1080/17483107.2018.1463399}, pmid = {29667522}, issn = {1748-3115}, mesh = {Adult ; *Equipment Design ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Pressure ; Pressure Ulcer/*prevention &amp; control ; *Sitting Position ; Spinal Cord Injuries/*rehabilitation ; *Wheelchairs ; }, abstract = {Purpose: Pressure injuries are a complication due to spinal cord injury. The objective of the study is to compare the pressure distribution in the wheelchair seat of subjects with spinal cord injury using 3 pads (Roho[®], Varilite[®] and Jay[®]). Methods: Pressure analysis was performed on 10 participants in two situations: (a) the participant sitting in static posture and (b) with the wheelchair being used for locomotion. Results: In the static position: Jay[®] showed the best rates for average pressure and also the contact area, the Roho[®] had the lowest average for the peak pressure. During the wheelchair moving, Jay[®] showed the best average pressure, Roho[®] had a lower average for peak pressure and Varilite[®] provided a highest means for the contact area of the buttocks and thighs. Conclusions: The use of appropriate cushion is an effective measure in people with spinal cord injury. Implications for Rehabilitation Pressure injuries are a complication due to spinal cord injury. Study to compare the pressure distribution in the wheelchair seat of subjects with spinal cord injury is important to minimize the injuries resulting from pressure injuries. The comfort resulting from the use of the cushion suited to the demands of the subjects with spinal cord injury is fundamental for the process of rehabilitation and social participation of the people affected. Understanding and minimizing pressure points can contribute to the appropriate rehabilitation process.}, }
@article {pmid29666837, year = {2018}, author = {Meeker, AK}, title = {Cancer telomeres and white crows.}, journal = {American journal of clinical and experimental urology}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {93-100}, pmid = {29666837}, issn = {2330-1910}, abstract = {This mini-review article discusses past and present prostate-focused research on telomere and telomerase biology conducted at Johns Hopkins, through the eyes of a Donald S Coffey trainee. Included are past discoveries of abnormalities in telomere biology in the context of prostate cancer and its pre-malignant precursor prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN); the finding that telomerase activity is androgen-regulated in the prostate, and the potential role of telomerase in prostate epithelial stem cells. Also reviewed are more recent results showing that in situ telomere length measurements in patient tissue specimens may have utility in risk assessment and as a prognostic biomarker. Highlighted throughout the article are some of the training and mentorship approaches employed by the late Dr. Coffey, former Director of Urologic Research at the Brady Urological Research Institute, which inspired new research ideas, team science, and discovery.}, }
@article {pmid29666401, year = {2018}, author = {Montecino-Latorre, D and Barker, CM}, title = {Overwintering of West Nile virus in a bird community with a communal crow roost.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {6088}, pmid = {29666401}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*transmission/virology ; Crows/*virology ; Models, Biological ; Seasons ; West Nile Fever/transmission/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification/physiology ; }, abstract = {In temperate climates, transmission of West Nile virus (WNV) is detectable rarely during the coldest months (late fall through early spring), yet the virus has reappeared consistently during the next warm season. Several mechanisms may contribute to WNV persistence through winter, including bird-to-bird transmission among highly viremic species. Here we consider whether, under realistic scenarios supported by field and laboratory evidence, a winter bird community could sustain WNV through the winter in the absence of mosquitoes. With this purpose we constructed a deterministic model for a community of susceptible birds consisting of communally roosting crows, raptors and other birds. We simulated WNV introduction and subsequent transmission dynamics during the winter under realistic initial conditions and model parameterizations, including plausible contact rates for roosting crows. Model results were used to determine whether the bird community could yield realistic outbreaks that would result in WNV infectious individuals at the end of the winter, which would set up the potential for onward horizontal transmission into summer. Our findings strongly suggest that winter crow roosts could allow for WNV persistence through the winter, and our model results provide synthesis to explain inconclusive results from field studies on WNV overwintering in crow roosts.}, }
@article {pmid29663701, year = {2018}, author = {Kwon, HS and Lee, JH and Kim, GM and Bae, JM}, title = {Efficacy and safety of retinaldehyde 0.1% and 0.05% creams used to treat photoaged skin: A randomized double-blind controlled trial.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {17}, number = {3}, pages = {471-476}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.12551}, pmid = {29663701}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Adult ; Dermatologic Agents/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Double-Balloon Enteroscopy ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Retinaldehyde/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Skin Cream/therapeutic use ; Skin Physiological Phenomena/drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; Water Loss, Insensible/drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Although topical retinoic acid effectively restores photoaged skin, the associated irritation limits the utility of the material. Retinaldehyde (RAL) is the natural precursor of retinoic acid and can also be used to treat photoaged skin; the safety profile is good.<br><br>AIMS: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of new anti-aging creams containing RAL at 0.1% and 0.05% used to treat photoaged skin.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: We enrolled 40 female Korean volunteers who applied RAL 0.1% or RAL 0.05% creams twice daily for 3 months. Wrinkles on, and the textures of, both crow's feet were quantitatively assessed using the Antera 3D[&#xae;] system. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin hydration, the melanin index, and skin brightness were also evaluated. Overall improvement was assessed using a five-point scale by both the patients and the dermatologists.<br><br>RESULTS: The 3-month application improved overall photoaging in both RAL 0.1% (95%) and RAL 0.05% groups (95%). Both RAL 0.1% and RAL 0.05% afforded significant textural improvements (13.7% and 12.6%, respectively), reduced the TEWL (14.5%, 17.9%), and increased hydration (10.2%, 6.0%); however, no statistical differences were observed between two groups. Only RAL 0.1% significantly improved the melanin index (by 6.5%).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Both RAL 0.1% and RAL 0.05% creams were well tolerated and improved skin hydration and texture. However, only RAL 0.1% cream improved the melanin index.}, }
@article {pmid29663676, year = {2018}, author = {Reivitis, A and Karimi, K and Griffiths, C and Banayan, A}, title = {A single-center, pilot study evaluating a novel TriHex peptide- and botanical-containing eye treatment compared to baseline.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {17}, number = {3}, pages = {467-470}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.12542}, pmid = {29663676}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Adult ; Eye ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Peptides/*therapeutic use ; Pilot Projects ; Plant Preparations/*therapeutic use ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Topical treatments containing tripeptide and hexapeptide (TriHex technology) have been proven to contribute to youthful skin by clearing the extracellular matrix and stimulating collagen and elastin production.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the efficacy of a novel eye treatment containing TriHex peptides and other synergistic ingredients for the daily treatment of fine lines/crow's feet around the eyes, under eye hollowing, under eye bags, and dark circles.<br><br>PATIENTS/METHODS: In this study, 10 subjects (9 female and 1 male) aged 30-60 of Fitzpatrick skin type I, II, or III were selected to use an eye treatment containing TriHex peptides and active botanicals (Alastin Restorative Eye Treatment with TriHex Technology&#x2122;, ALASTIN Skincare, Inc., Carlsbad, CA) twice daily for 12&#xa0;weeks. Subjects were photographed and evaluated at baseline, week 4, week 8, and week 12 by a board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Using an adjusted Griffiths scale (0&#xa0;=&#xa0;none, best possible condition and 9&#xa0;=&#xa0;severe, worst possible condition), subjects were evaluated on severity of fine lines/crow's feet, under eye hollowing, under eye bags, and dark circles at each visit. Subjects completed a "Subject Questionnaire" at week 4, week 8, and week 12 pertaining to the subject's observations and perceived improvement of these measures.<br><br>RESULTS: Based on the investigator's assessments, overall improvement in periocular skin was noted for all 10 subjects. Over the course of 12&#xa0;weeks, raw scores significantly decreased indicating reduction of lines/crow's feet (41% improvement), under eye hollowing (29% improvement), under eye bags (48% improvement), and dark circles (39% improvement). Based on the "Subject Questionnaire," all subjects noted overall improvement of the appearance of skin around the eyes.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Based on the findings of this study, this eye treatment containing TriHex peptides and active botanicals is an effective stand-alone treatment for the rejuvenation of periocular skin. When used twice daily, this product can reduce the appearance of lines/crow's feet, under eye hollowing, under eye bags, and dark circles.}, }
@article {pmid29657318, year = {2018}, author = {}, title = {Jays play nicely with the right hormone.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {556}, number = {7701}, pages = {277}, doi = {10.1038/d41586-018-04436-2}, pmid = {29657318}, issn = {1476-4687}, }
@article {pmid29649503, year = {2018}, author = {Brem, AK and Almquist, JN and Mansfield, K and Plessow, F and Sella, F and Santarnecchi, E and Orhan, U and McKanna, J and Pavel, M and Mathan, S and Yeung, N and Pascual-Leone, A and Kadosh, RC and , }, title = {Modulating fluid intelligence performance through combined cognitive training and brain stimulation.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {118}, number = {Pt A}, pages = {107-114}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2018.04.008}, pmid = {29649503}, issn = {1873-3514}, mesh = {Brain/*physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/*methods ; Electric Stimulation/*methods ; Executive Function/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Negotiating ; Regression Analysis ; Single-Blind Method ; }, abstract = {It is debated whether cognitive training of specific executive functions leads to far transfer effects, such as improvements in fluid intelligence (Gf). Within this context, transcranial direct current stimulation and recently also novel protocols such as transcranial random noise and alternating current stimulation are being investigated with regards to their ability to enhance cognitive training outcomes. We compared the effects of four different transcranial electrical brain stimulation protocols in combination with nine daily computerized training sessions on Gf. 82 participants were randomly assigned to receive transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), random noise stimulation (tRNS), multifocal alternating current stimulation at 40 Hz (mftACS), or multifocal tDCS (mftDCS) in combination with an adaptive and synergistic executive function (EF) training, or to a no-contact control group. EF training consisted of gamified tasks drawing on isolated as well as integrated executive functions (working memory, inhibition, cognitive flexibility). Transfer was assessed with a combined measure of Gf including three established tests (Bochumer Matrizentest - BOMAT, Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices - RAPM, and Sandia Matrices). We found significant improvements in Gf for the tDCS, mftDCS, and tRNS groups when compared with the no-contact group. In contrast, the mftACS group did not improve significantly and showed a similar pattern as the no-contact group. Mediation analyses indicated that the improvement in Gf was mediated through game progression in the mftDCS and tRNS group. Electrical brain stimulation in combination with sustained EF training can lead to transfer effects in Gf, which are mediated by training progression.}, }
@article {pmid29644612, year = {2018}, author = {Zarrintab, M and Mirzaei, R}, title = {Tissue distribution and oral exposure risk assessment of heavy metals in an urban bird: magpie from Central Iran.}, journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international}, volume = {25}, number = {17}, pages = {17118-17127}, pmid = {29644612}, issn = {1614-7499}, mesh = {Animals ; Cities ; Female ; Hydrogen Peroxide/*chemistry ; Industry ; Iran ; Male ; Metals, Heavy/*analysis/chemistry ; Passeriformes ; Risk Assessment ; Soil ; Soil Pollutants/*analysis/chemistry ; Tissue Distribution/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Direct ingestion of soil and/or soil attached to the food items is a potential rout for wildlife exposure to contaminants. In this study, bioaccumulation of five heavy metals (HMs) in internal tissues of an urban bird (Pica pica) collected from Aran-O-Bidgol City, Central Iran and their related soil were investigated. A total of 15 magpie specimens were collected in autumn 2013 and then their internal tissues were digested using a mixture of HNO3 and H2O2, and finally, concentrations of HMs were detected by ICP-OES. In addition, in order to show level of HM exposure risk to magpie, an exposure risk assessment was modeled. Results indicated that HMs were accumulated as follows: liver > kidney > muscle. Zn and Cu were significantly higher in magpie's tissues collected from agricultural site; on the other hand, Pb and Cd were significantly higher in industrial site (p < 0.05). Level of Cd in male's livers (2.11 μg/g dw) was significantly higher than in females (1.85 μg/g dw) (p < 0.05). Levels of Cd, Pb, and Ni in liver, muscle, and kidney, respectively, were significantly higher in adults than in subadults (p < 0.05). Soil exposure doses of all HMs were lower than tolerable daily intake (Zn 4.35, Cu 1.34, Ni 5.65, Pb 0.35, and Cd 0.53). The calculated hazard quotations (HQs) for HMs were as follows: Pb > Zn > Cu > Ni > Cd and for all HMs were at no risk level (HQ < 1). The amounts of hazard index for three sites were as follows: urban (1.032) > agriculture (0.943) ≥ industry (0.941) and only for urban area was at low risk (1 < HQ < 2). It seemed that birds living in a safe environment and/or HM contaminations in soil separately had no negative effects on magpies. We can also suggest that low levels of HMs in magpie's tissues can be due to low levels of HMs in soil.}, }
@article {pmid29643823, year = {2018}, author = {Gómez-Veiga, I and Vila Chaves, JO and Duque, G and García Madruga, JA}, title = {A New Look to a Classic Issue: Reasoning and Academic Achievement at Secondary School.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {400}, pmid = {29643823}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Higher-order thinking abilities such as abstract reasoning and meaningful school learning occur sequentially. The fulfillment of these tasks demands that people activate and use all of their working memory resources in a controlled and supervised way. The aims of this work were: (a) to study the interplay between two new reasoning measures, one mathematical (Cognitive Reflection Test) and the other verbal (Deductive Reasoning Test), and a third classical visuo-spatial reasoning measure (Raven Progressive Matrices Test); and (b) to investigate the relationship between these measures and academic achievement. Fifty-one 4th grade secondary school students participated in the experiment and completed the three reasoning tests. Academic achievement measures were the final numerical scores in seven basic subjects. The results demonstrated that cognitive reflection, visual, and verbal reasoning are intimately related and predicts academic achievement. This work confirms that abstract reasoning constitutes the most important higher-order cognitive ability that underlies academic achievement. It also reveals the importance of dual processes, verbal deduction and metacognition in ordinary teaching and learning at school.}, }
@article {pmid29643220, year = {2018}, author = {Duque, JF and Leichner, W and Ahmann, H and Stevens, JR}, title = {Mesotocin influences pinyon jay prosociality.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {14}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {29643220}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Altruism ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Oxytocin/*analogs &amp; derivatives/metabolism ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Many species exhibit prosocial behaviour, in which one individual's actions benefit another individual, often without an immediate benefit to itself. The neuropeptide oxytocin is an important hormonal mechanism influencing prosociality in mammals, but it is unclear whether the avian homologue mesotocin plays a similar functional role in birds. Here, we experimentally tested prosociality in pinyon jays (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus), a highly social corvid species that spontaneously shares food with others. First, we measured prosocial preferences in a prosocial choice task with two different pay-off distributions: Prosocial trials delivered food to both the subject and either an empty cage or a partner bird, whereas Altruism trials delivered food only to an empty cage or a partner bird (none to subject). In a second experiment, we examined whether administering mesotocin influenced prosocial preferences. Compared to choices in a control condition, we show that subjects voluntarily delivered food rewards to partners, but only when also receiving food for themselves (Prosocial trials), and administration of high levels of mesotocin increased these behaviours. Thus, in birds, mesotocin seems to play a similar functional role in facilitating prosocial behaviours as oxytocin does in mammals, suggesting an evolutionarily conserved hormonal mechanism for prosociality.}, }
@article {pmid29634743, year = {2018}, author = {Jiménez de Oya, N and Camacho, MC and Blázquez, AB and Lima-Barbero, JF and Saiz, JC and Höfle, U and Escribano-Romero, E}, title = {High susceptibility of magpie (Pica pica) to experimental infection with lineage 1 and 2 West Nile virus.}, journal = {PLoS neglected tropical diseases}, volume = {12}, number = {4}, pages = {e0006394}, pmid = {29634743}, issn = {1935-2735}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Neutralizing/blood ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Bird Diseases/blood/transmission/*virology ; Culicidae/physiology/virology ; Disease Susceptibility ; Europe ; Female ; Male ; Mosquito Vectors/physiology/virology ; Pica/immunology/virology ; West Nile Fever/blood/transmission/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/immunology/*physiology ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV), a zoonotic pathogen naturally transmitted by mosquitoes whose natural hosts are birds, has spread worldwide during the last few decades. Resident birds play an important role in flavivirus epidemiology, since they can serve as reservoirs and facilitate overwintering of the virus. Herein, we report the first experimental infection of magpie (Pica pica) with two strains of West Nile virus, lineages 1 (NY-99) and 2 (SRB Novi-Sad/12), which are currently circulating in Europe. Magpies were highly susceptible to WNV infection, with similar low survival rates (30% and 42.8%) for both lineages. All infected magpies developed viremia detectable at 3 days post-infection with titers above those necessary for successful transmission of WNV to a mosquito. Neutralizing antibodies were detected at all time points analyzed (from 7 to 17 days post-infection). WNV genome was detected in the brains and hearts of all magpies that succumbed to the infection, and, in some of the surviving birds. WNV-RNA was amplified from swabs (oral and cloacal) at 3, 6 and 7 days post-infection and feather pulps, from 3 to 17 days post-infection, of infected animals. Even more, infectious virus was recovered from swabs up to 7 days post-infection and from feather pulps up to 10 days post infection. Sham-infected control animals were negative for viremia, viral RNA, and antibodies. These results suggest that the magpie, which is one of the most abundant corvid species in Europe, could represent a source of WNV transmission for birds and humans. Our observations shed light on the pathogenesis, transmission, and ecology of WNV and can benefit the implementation of surveillance and control programs.}, }
@article {pmid29630997, year = {2019}, author = {Bodeau-Livinec, F and Davidson, LL and Zoumenou, R and Massougbodji, A and Cot, M and Boivin, MJ}, title = {Neurocognitive testing in West African children 3-6 years of age: Challenges and implications for data analyses.}, journal = {Brain research bulletin}, volume = {145}, number = {}, pages = {129-135}, pmid = {29630997}, issn = {1873-2747}, support = {R21 HD060524/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Africa, Western ; Child ; Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; Data Analysis ; Female ; Humans ; Learning ; Male ; Mental Status and Dementia Tests/*standards ; Neuropsychological Tests/*standards ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales/*standards ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: When testing African children with developmental and cognitive standardized tests from high-income countries (HIC), investigators are uncertain as to whether to apply the HIC norms for these tests when standardizing a child's raw-score performance on the basis of age. The present study compared the construct validity of both raw and HIC-based standardized scores for the Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL) and the Kaufman Assessment Battery in Children - 2nd edition (KABC-II) for Beninese children in a rural setting from three to six years of age.<br><br>METHODS: Seventy-four children 3-4 yrs of age were assessed with the MSEL, and 61 eligible older children (5-6 yrs of age) were assessed with the KABC-II. Assessors spoke the instructions to the children and caregivers for the assessment items in the local language. The developmental quality of the home environment was evaluated with the Caldwell Home Observation for Measurement of the Environment (HOME) inventory, and a material possessions and housing quality checklist was used as a measure of socio-economic status (SES). Children's mothers were given the Raven's Progressive Matrices test (nonverbal cognitive ability), and the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) (emotional wellbeing).<br><br>RESULTS: For the MSEL, the 4-yr old group performed significantly better than the 3-yr old group on both the raw and standardized score comparisons for all scales. These differences were attenuated when using standardized scores, although the MSEL standardized cognitive composite score was still highly significant between years of age. When comparing 5- to 6-yr olds on KABC-II subtest and global scale performance, comparisons between the raw and standardized mean score performances were much less consistent. Generally, 6-yr olds performed significantly better than 5-yr olds on the raw score comparisons on the KABC-II subtests, but not so for standardized scores. Parent-child interactions assessed through the HOME measure was associated with both raw and standardized MSEL cognitive composite score outcomes on a multiple regression analysis. SES was the only significant predictor for KABC-II raw and standardized outcomes.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Standardization using HIC norms was not optimal, resulting in minimal impact to account for age when using the MSEL, and lower scores for oldest children compared with youngest children when using the KABC2. This is likely due to children in Benin drifting away from HIC-based norms with each passing year of age, systematically lowering standardized performance measures. These findings support the importance of having a local comparison group of reference or control children to allow for adjusted (for age, HOME, and SES) raw score comparisons when using western-based tests for developmental and neuropsychological evaluation.}, }
@article {pmid29620454, year = {2018}, author = {Scott, AB and Phalen, D and Hernandez-Jover, M and Singh, M and Groves, P and Toribio, JLML}, title = {Wildlife Presence and Interactions with Chickens on Australian Commercial Chicken Farms Assessed by Camera Traps.}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {62}, number = {1}, pages = {65-72}, doi = {10.1637/11761-101917-Reg.1}, pmid = {29620454}, issn = {1938-4351}, mesh = {*Animal Distribution ; Animal Husbandry ; Animals ; Animals, Wild/*physiology ; Birds ; Chickens/*physiology ; New South Wales ; Photography/*veterinary ; Queensland ; }, abstract = {The types of wildlife and the frequency of their visits to commercial chicken farms in Australia were assessed using infrared and motion-sensing camera traps. Cameras were set up on 14 free-range layer farms, three cage layer farms, two barn layer farms, five non-free-range meat chicken farms, and six free-range meat chicken farms in the Sydney basin region and South East Queensland. Wildlife visits were found on every farm type and were most frequent on cage layer farms (73%), followed by free-range layer farms (15%). The common mynah (Acridotheres tristis) was the most frequent wildlife visitor in the study (23.9%), followed by corvids (22.9%) and Columbiformes (7.5%). Most wildlife visits occurred during the day from 6 am to 6 pm (85%). There were infrequent observations of direct contact between chickens and wildlife, suggesting the indirect route of pathogen transfer may be more significant. The level of biosecurity on the farm is suggested to impact the frequency of wildlife visits more so than the farm type.}, }
@article {pmid29620040, year = {2019}, author = {Kamat, A and Quadros, T}, title = {An observational study on glabellar wrinkle patterns in Indians.}, journal = {Indian journal of dermatology, venereology and leprology}, volume = {85}, number = {2}, pages = {182-189}, doi = {10.4103/ijdvl.IJDVL_211_17}, pmid = {29620040}, issn = {0973-3922}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*supply &amp; distribution ; Cohort Studies ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Drug Administration Schedule ; Esthetics ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Forehead ; Humans ; India ; Injections, Subcutaneous ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Retrospective Studies ; Risk Assessment ; Skin Aging/*drug effects/*ethnology ; Treatment Outcome ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum A exotoxin is an established treatment for glabellar frown lines, crow's feet, and horizontal furrows of the forehead. The glabella is probably the most common site for botulinum toxin treatment in Asians. Five glabellar contraction patterns have been classified in earlier studies based on eyebrow approximation, depression, and elevation. Unfortunately, this was found to be confusing by many practitioners. Indians, as all Asians, have smaller muscles compared to the European population, and there is no consensus on the optimal dosage per injection site or concentration of toxin to be used.<br><br>AIMS: (a) Identification and classification of glabellar wrinkle patterns in Indians. (b) Optimization of the minimal effective dose of toxin per site.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective photographic analysis of 200 patients who received botulinum toxin for the first time to treat glabellar wrinkles was conducted. The wrinkle patterns were identified and classified by the authors based on the prevalence of perpendicular and transverse glabellar lines, nasal, and forehead wrinkles.<br><br>RESULTS: Six patterns were identified: (1) 11 (2) U (3) Pi (4) X (5) W (6) I. The relevant muscles were identified and doses optimized for those sites.<br><br>LIMITATIONS: The doses mentioned in this study are not universal for all patients and toxin units would have to be altered and individualized according to the bulk of the facial muscles and individual needs.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The investigators classification, injection patterns, and dosage may provide valuable guidance to facial esthetic treatment.}, }
@article {pmid29614683, year = {2018}, author = {Alves, L and Cardoso, S and Maroco, J and de Mendonça, A and Guerreiro, M and Silva, D}, title = {Neuropsychological Predictors of Long-Term (10 Years) Mild Cognitive Impairment Stability.}, journal = {Journal of Alzheimer's disease : JAD}, volume = {62}, number = {4}, pages = {1703-1711}, doi = {10.3233/JAD-171034}, pmid = {29614683}, issn = {1875-8908}, mesh = {Aged ; Cognitive Dysfunction/*diagnosis/psychology ; Disease Progression ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Prognosis ; Prospective Studies ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Although the diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) corresponds to a condition likely to progress to dementia, essentially Alzheimer's disease, longitudinal studies have shown that some patients may not convert to dementia and maintain the diagnosis of MCI even after many years.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To determine whether patients that maintain the diagnosis of MCI in the long term (10 years) are really stable or just declining slowly, and to identify clinical and neuropsychological characteristics associated with long-term stability.<br><br>METHODS: The Cognitive Complaints Cohort (CCC) was searched for MCI cases who maintained that diagnosis for at least 10 years. For each long-term-stable MCI patient, two MCI patients that converted to dementia during follow-up, matched for age and education, were selected from the same database. The baseline and last neuropsychological evaluations for long-term-stable MCI and converter MCI were compared. Baseline neuropsychological predictors of long-term stability were searched for.<br><br>RESULTS: Long-term-stable MCI (n&#x200a;=&#x200a;22) and converter MCI (n&#x200a;=&#x200a;44) patients did not differ in terms of gender distribution, education, age at first assessment and time between symptom onset and first evaluation. Time of follow-up was on average 11 years for long-term-stable MCI and 3 years for converter MCI. The baseline and follow-up neuropsychological tests were not significantly different in long-term-stable MCI patients, whereas a general decline was observed in converter MCI patients. Higher scores on one memory test, the Word Delayed Total Recall, and on the non-verbal abstraction test, Raven's Progressive Matrices, at the baseline predicted long-term (10 years) clinical stability.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Some patients with MCI remain clinically and neuropsychologically stable for a decade. Better performances at baseline in memory and non-verbal abstraction tests predict long-term stability.}, }
@article {pmid29601669, year = {2018}, author = {Boonekamp, JJ and Mulder, E and Verhulst, S}, title = {Canalisation in the wild: effects of developmental conditions on physiological traits are inversely linked to their association with fitness.}, journal = {Ecology letters}, volume = {21}, number = {6}, pages = {857-864}, doi = {10.1111/ele.12953}, pmid = {29601669}, issn = {1461-0248}, mesh = {*Biomarkers ; Genetic Fitness ; *Phenotype ; }, abstract = {Ecological conditions affect fitness, but mechanisms causing such effects are not well known, while evolved responses to environmental variation may depend on the underlying mechanisms. Consequences of environmental conditions vary strongly between traits, but a framework to interpret such variation is lacking. We propose that variation in trait response may be explained by differential canalisation, with traits with larger fitness effects showing weaker responses to environmental perturbations due to preferential resource allocation to such traits. We tested the canalisation hypothesis using brood size manipulation in wild jackdaw nestlings in which we measured eight physiological traits (mainly oxidative stress markers), and two feather traits. For each trait, we estimated manipulation response and association with fitness (over-winter survival). As predicted, a strong negative correlation emerged between manipulation response and association with fitness (r =-0.76). We discuss the consequences of differential trait canalisation for the study of mechanisms mediating environmental effects on fitness.}, }
@article {pmid29579052, year = {2018}, author = {, }, title = {Correction: MAGPIE: Simplifying access and execution of computational models in the life sciences.}, journal = {PLoS computational biology}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {e1006083}, pmid = {29579052}, issn = {1553-7358}, abstract = {[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1005898.].}, }
@article {pmid29576946, year = {2018}, author = {Brecht, KF and Ostojić, L and Legg, EW and Clayton, NS}, title = {Difficulties when using video playback to investigate social cognition in California scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica).}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {e4451}, pmid = {29576946}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {Previous research has suggested that videos can be used to experimentally manipulate social stimuli. In the present study, we used the California scrub-jays' cache protection strategies to assess whether video playback can be used to simulate conspecifics in a social context. In both the lab and the field, scrub-jays are known to exhibit a range of behaviours to protect their caches from potential pilferage by a conspecific, for example by hiding food in locations out of the observer's view or by re-caching previously made caches once the observer has left. Here, we presented scrub-jays with videos of a conspecific observer as well as two non-social conditions during a caching period and assessed whether they would cache out of the observer's "view" (Experiment 1) or would re-cache their caches once the observer was no longer present (Experiment 2). In contrast to previous studies using live observers, the scrub-jays' caching and re-caching behaviour was not influenced by whether the observer was present or absent. These findings suggest that there might be limitations in using video playback of social agents to mimic real-life situations when investigating corvid decision making.}, }
@article {pmid29574973, year = {2018}, author = {Kang, G and Tu, TNT and Kim, S and Yang, H and Jang, M and Jo, D and Ryu, J and Baek, J and Jung, H}, title = {Adenosine-loaded dissolving microneedle patches to improve skin wrinkles, dermal density, elasticity and hydration.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {40}, number = {2}, pages = {199-206}, doi = {10.1111/ics.12453}, pmid = {29574973}, issn = {1468-2494}, mesh = {Adenosine/*administration &amp; dosage ; Administration, Cutaneous ; Adult ; Animals ; *Cosmetic Techniques/adverse effects ; Elasticity ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Skin Aging ; Skin Cream/administration &amp; dosage ; Swine ; *Transdermal Patch/adverse effects ; Treatment Outcome ; Water ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Although dissolving microneedle patches have been widely studied in the cosmetics field, no comparisons have been drawn with the topical applications available for routine use. In this study, two wrinkle-improving products, adenosine-loaded dissolving microneedle patches and an adenosine cream, were evaluated for efficacy, with respect to skin wrinkling, dermal density, elasticity, and hydration, and safety in a clinical test on the crow's feet area.<br><br>METHODS: Clinical efficacy and safety tests were performed for 10&#xa0;weeks on 22 female subjects with wrinkles around their eyes. The adenosine-loaded dissolving microneedle patch was applied once every 3&#xa0;days, in the evening, for 8&#xa0;weeks to the designated crow's feet area. The adenosine cream was applied two times per day, in the morning and evening, for 8&#xa0;weeks to the other crow's feet area. Skin wrinkling, dermal density, elasticity, and hydration were measured by using PRIMOS[&#xae;] premium, Dermascan[&#xae;] C, Cutometer[&#xae;] MPA580, and Corneometer[&#xae;] CM 825, respectively. In addition, subjective skin irritation was evaluated by self-observation, and objective skin irritation was assessed through expert interviews.<br><br>RESULTS: The adenosine-loaded dissolving microneedle patches had a similar or better efficacy than the adenosine cream. Both groups showed statistically significant efficacy for almost all parameters (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05). The dissolving microneedle patches had a long-lasting effect on the average wrinkle depth (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05), only showed efficacy in dermal density (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05), had an early improving effect on elasticity (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05), and demonstrated better hydration efficacy (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001). No adverse effects were observed in either group during the test period.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In the clinical efficacy test of four skin-improvement parameters, adenosine-loaded dissolving microneedle patches showed the same or better effect than the adenosine cream, although the weekly adenosine dose was 140 times lower. The dissolving microneedle patches caused no adverse reactions. These adenosine-loaded dissolving microneedle patches are expected to be safe, effective, and novel cosmetics for skin improvement.}, }
@article {pmid29569788, year = {2018}, author = {Krause, A and Pugh, TAM and Bayer, AD and Li, W and Leung, F and Bondeau, A and Doelman, JC and Humpenöder, F and Anthoni, P and Bodirsky, BL and Ciais, P and Müller, C and Murray-Tortarolo, G and Olin, S and Popp, A and Sitch, S and Stehfest, E and Arneth, A}, title = {Large uncertainty in carbon uptake potential of land-based climate-change mitigation efforts.}, journal = {Global change biology}, volume = {24}, number = {7}, pages = {3025-3038}, doi = {10.1111/gcb.14144}, pmid = {29569788}, issn = {1365-2486}, mesh = {Biomass ; Carbon/*metabolism ; Carbon Cycle ; Carbon Dioxide/analysis ; Carbon Sequestration ; *Climate Change ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; Crops, Agricultural ; Forests ; Soil ; Uncertainty ; }, abstract = {Most climate mitigation scenarios involve negative emissions, especially those that aim to limit global temperature increase to 2°C or less. However, the carbon uptake potential in land-based climate change mitigation efforts is highly uncertain. Here, we address this uncertainty by using two land-based mitigation scenarios from two land-use models (IMAGE and MAgPIE) as input to four dynamic global vegetation models (DGVMs; LPJ-GUESS, ORCHIDEE, JULES, LPJmL). Each of the four combinations of land-use models and mitigation scenarios aimed for a cumulative carbon uptake of ~130 GtC by the end of the century, achieved either via the cultivation of bioenergy crops combined with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) or avoided deforestation and afforestation (ADAFF). Results suggest large uncertainty in simulated future land demand and carbon uptake rates, depending on the assumptions related to land use and land management in the models. Total cumulative carbon uptake in the DGVMs is highly variable across mitigation scenarios, ranging between 19 and 130 GtC by year 2099. Only one out of the 16 combinations of mitigation scenarios and DGVMs achieves an equivalent or higher carbon uptake than achieved in the land-use models. The large differences in carbon uptake between the DGVMs and their discrepancy against the carbon uptake in IMAGE and MAgPIE are mainly due to different model assumptions regarding bioenergy crop yields and due to the simulation of soil carbon response to land-use change. Differences between land-use models and DGVMs regarding forest biomass and the rate of forest regrowth also have an impact, albeit smaller, on the results. Given the low confidence in simulated carbon uptake for a given land-based mitigation scenario, and that negative emissions simulated by the DGVMs are typically lower than assumed in scenarios consistent with the 2°C target, relying on negative emissions to mitigate climate change is a highly uncertain strategy.}, }
@article {pmid29567144, year = {2018}, author = {Wang, B and Sun, LD and Liu, HH and Wang, ZD and Zhao, YK and Wang, W and Liu, Q}, title = {Molecular detection of novel circoviruses in ticks in northeastern China.}, journal = {Ticks and tick-borne diseases}, volume = {9}, number = {4}, pages = {836-839}, doi = {10.1016/j.ttbdis.2018.03.017}, pmid = {29567144}, issn = {1877-9603}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/parasitology ; China/epidemiology ; Circovirus/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Cloning, Molecular ; DNA, Intergenic ; DNA, Viral/*genetics ; Dermacentor/*virology ; Forests ; *Genome, Viral ; Genomics ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; Ixodes/*virology ; Metagenomics ; Open Reading Frames ; Phylogeny ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Tick Infestations/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Novel circular single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) genomes have been found in various animals using high-throughput sequencing techniques. In this study, two circular ssDNA genomes were detected in adult ticks from northeastern China by Solexa sequencing and PCR. The two sequences shared a similar genomic organization to circoviruses, with genomes of 1936 bp (TiCV-1) and 1812 bp (TiCV-2), each including two major open read frames (ORFs), ORF1 and ORF2, encoding putative replicase and capsid proteins, respectively. The potential stem-loop structure of a circovirus was predicted in the intergenic region between the two ORFs. Sequence comparison showed that the genome of TiCV-2 was almost the same as that of TiCV-1, except for two deletions and several mutations, and they had a high identity of 71.3-72.9% with Raven circovirus. The infection rates of circoviruses were calculated by the maximum likelihood estimation as 3.2% (95% CI, 1.9-5.2%) for TiCV-1 in the investigated Haemaphysalis longicornis, and 1.2% (95% CI, 0.2-4.0%) for TiCV-2 in Ixodes crenulatus from Yichun of Heilongjiang Province. These results indicate that the two sequences are distantly related to known circovirus genomes and may represent novel species in the family Circoviridae.}, }
@article {pmid29565147, year = {2018}, author = {Hormazábal-Peralta, A and Espinoza, J and Cáceres, P and Lizana, PA}, title = {Adolescents with high intellectual ability: differences in body composition and physical activity by sex.}, journal = {Nutricion hospitalaria}, volume = {35}, number = {1}, pages = {38-43}, doi = {10.20960/nh.1170}, pmid = {29565147}, issn = {1699-5198}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Body Composition/*physiology ; Body Mass Index ; Body Weight ; Child, Gifted ; Chile/epidemiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Exercise/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Obesity/epidemiology ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Physical activity (PA) has been shown to have multiple health and wellness benefits, but there is no such information for adolescents with high intellectual ability (HIA). Thus, the aim of this study is to assess body composition and PA in HIA Chilean adolescents.<br><br>METHODS: Weight and body composition were measured by bioelectrical impedance in 73 adolescents (39 female) aged 14-18 years from the Valpara&#xed;so region of Chile. HIA was assessed via Raven's Progressive Matrices (> 75th&#xa0;percentile) and PA, via questionnaire. Obesity was defined as a body fat percentage (BF%) &#x2265; 25 (for boys) or &#x2265; 30 BF% (for girls).<br><br>RESULTS: Obesity prevalence was 43.59% in females and 8.82% in males. A total of 69% of adolescents performed more than two hours of weekly exercise, with the amount being greater in males. BF% and fat mass index were significantly different (p < 0.05) in adolescents who engaged in fewer than two hours of weekly exercise. On the contrary, subjects who performed more than two hours of weekly exercise exhibited higher mass muscle percentages (p < 0.01). After controlling for socioeconomic status and PA, the obesity odds ratio (OR = 7.6; 95% CI: 1.9-30.9) was significantly higher in females (p < 0.01).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Adolescents with HIA reported elevated PA. However, obesity was more prevalent in females, who also reported less weekly PA than males.}, }
@article {pmid29563949, year = {2018}, author = {Boeckle, M and Szipl, G and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Raven food calls indicate sender's age and sex.}, journal = {Frontiers in zoology}, volume = {15}, number = {}, pages = {5}, pmid = {29563949}, issn = {1742-9994}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acoustic parameters of animal signals have been shown to correlate with various phenotypic characteristics of the sender. These acoustic characteristics can be learned and categorized and thus are a basis for perceivers' recognition abilities. One of the most demanding capacities is individual recognition, achievable only after repeated interactions with the same individual. Still, class-level recognition might be potentially important to perceivers who have not previously encountered callers but can classify unknown individuals according to the already learned categories. Especially for species with high fission-fusion dynamics that repeatedly encounter unknown individuals it may be advantageous to develop class-level recognition. We tested whether frequency-, temporal-, and amplitude-related acoustic parameters of vocalizations emitted by ravens, a species showing high fission-fusion dynamics in non-breeder aggregations, are connected to phenotypic characteristics and thus have the potential for class-level recognition.<br><br>RESULTS: The analysis of 418 food calls revealed that some components summarizing acoustic parameters were differentiated by age-classes and sex.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Together, the results provide evidence for the co-variation of vocal characteristics and respective sex and age categories, a prerequisite for class-level recognition in perceivers. Perceivers that are ignorant of the caller's identity can thus potentially recognize these class-level differences for decision-making processes in feeding contexts.}, }
@article {pmid29563825, year = {2018}, author = {Sugihara, Y and Ikushima, S and Miyake, M and Kirisako, T and Yada, Y and Fujiwara, D}, title = {Improvement of skin conditions by ingestion of Aspergillus kawachii (Koji) extract containing 14-dehydroergosterol in a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial.}, journal = {Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {115-124}, pmid = {29563825}, issn = {1178-7015}, abstract = {PURPOSE: The present study examined the effect of ingestion of Koji extract containing 14-dehydroergosterol (14-DHE), prepared from Aspergillus kawachii NBRC4308, on improvement of skin conditions among healthy volunteers.<br><br>SUBJECTS AND METHODS: In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study, 70 healthy adult women who felt that their skin was dry ingested either a placebo dietary supplement or Koji extract (200 mg/day) supplement containing 0.1% 14-DHE for 12 weeks. Throughout the treatment period and for 4 weeks afterward, objective indicators - including moisture content of the stratum corneum, trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), and skin wrinkles - were evaluated; in addition, the subjects answered a questionnaire on their skin conditions with ratings on a visual analog scale. Statistical analysis was conducted on the basis of differences from baseline scores.<br><br>RESULTS: Compared with the placebo group, the Koji extract group showed significantly increased forearm moisture at 4, 8, and 16 weeks (p < 0.05 on unpaired t-test). The questionnaire survey showed a marked improvement in skin conditions, particularly crow's feet, in the Koji extract group versus the placebo group at 8 weeks (p < 0.05 by unpaired t-test). Furthermore, the Koji extract group showed a trend (p < 0.10) toward improvement in skin moisture (at 4 weeks), dryness around the eyes/mouth (at 4 weeks), and overall skin condition (at 8 weeks) versus the placebo group.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Ingestion of Koji extract containing 14-DHE was demonstrated to have positive effects toward improving skin conditions - in particular, on increasing skin moisture in the stratum corneum.}, }
@article {pmid29561815, year = {2018}, author = {Doyle, JT and Kindness, L and Realbird, J and Eggers, MJ and Camper, AK}, title = {Challenges and Opportunities for Tribal Waters: Addressing Disparities in Safe Public Drinking Water on the Crow Reservation in Montana, USA.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {29561815}, issn = {1660-4601}, support = {P50 ES026102/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; P20 MD002317/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; P20 RR016455/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Drinking Water/*standards ; Environmental Health ; Humans ; *Indians, North American ; Montana ; United States ; Waste Disposal, Fluid/*methods ; Water Supply/*standards ; }, abstract = {Disparities in access to safe public drinking water are increasingly being recognized as contributing to health disparities and environmental injustice for vulnerable communities in the United States. As the Co-Directors of the Apsaálooke Water and Wastewater Authority (AWWWA) for the Crow Tribe, with our academic partners, we present here the multiple and complex challenges we have addressed in improving and maintaining tribal water and wastewater infrastructure, including the identification of diverse funding sources for infrastructure construction, the need for many kinds of specialized expertise and long-term stability of project personnel, ratepayer difficulty in paying for services, an ongoing legacy of inadequate infrastructure planning, and lack of water quality research capacity. As a tribal entity, the AWWWA faces additional challenges, including the complex jurisdictional issues affecting all phases of our work, lack of authority to create water districts, and additional legal and regulatory gaps-especially with regards to environmental protection. Despite these obstacles, the AWWWA and Crow Tribe have successfully upgraded much of the local water and wastewater infrastructure. We find that ensuring safe public drinking water for tribal and other disadvantaged U.S. communities will require comprehensive, community-engaged approaches across a broad range of stakeholders to successfully address these complex legal, regulatory, policy, community capacity, and financial challenges.}, }
@article {pmid29552564, year = {2018}, author = {Carrasco-Garcia, R and Barroso, P and Perez-Olivares, J and Montoro, V and Vicente, J}, title = {Consumption of Big Game Remains by Scavengers: A Potential Risk as Regards Disease Transmission in Central Spain.}, journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {4}, pmid = {29552564}, issn = {2297-1769}, abstract = {Understanding the role that facultative scavenger species may play in spreading infectious pathogens, and even becoming reservoirs for humans, domestic and wild ungulates or, on the contrary, preventing the spread of disease, requires a prior understanding of the pattern of carrion scavenging in specific scenarios. The objectives of this paper are (i) to describe the guild of vertebrate scavengers and (ii) to study the species-specific, habitat, and management-related factors involved in the usage of gut piles in South Central Spain (SCS), a tuberculosis (TB) endemic area. We used camera trapping at 18 hunting piles on seven hunting estates. A total of eight bird and five mammal taxa were detected at the remains of hunting piles. The most frequently detected species in terms of number of gut piles visited (78%) and scavenged (61%) was the red fox Vulpes vulpes, followed by the griffon vulture Gyps fulvus (56% as regards both presence and scavenging) and the raven Corvus corax (61 and 39% as regards presence and scavenging, respectively). We evidenced that griffon vultures accounted for most of the scavenging activity in open habitats, while facultative mammal scavengers, red fox, and wild boar Sus scrofa made the highest contribution to scavenging in vegetation-covered habitats. In the case of wild boar, the gut piles deposited during the evening and night favored higher rates of scavenging, while the opposite pattern was observed for griffons. Overall, our findings suggest that when disposing of hunting remains in areas of risk as regards disease transmission it is particularly important to consider the access that facultative mammals, and especially wild boar, have to material, while the presence of the resource needs to be safeguarded to protect specialist scavengers of conservation value. These results are of particular relevance in the case of wild boar in the current context of re-emerging TB and emerging African swine fever (ASF) in Europe.}, }
@article {pmid29551415, year = {2018}, author = {Wagener, L and Loconsole, M and Ditz, HM and Nieder, A}, title = {Neurons in the Endbrain of Numerically Naive Crows Spontaneously Encode Visual Numerosity.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {28}, number = {7}, pages = {1090-1094.e4}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2018.02.023}, pmid = {29551415}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Crows ; Discrimination, Psychological/*physiology ; *Mathematical Concepts ; Neurons/*physiology ; Telencephalon/*physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Endowed with an elaborate cerebral cortex, humans and other primates can assess the number of items in a set, or numerosity, from birth on [1] and without being trained [2]. Whether spontaneous numerosity extraction is a unique feat of the mammalian cerebral cortex [3-7] or rather an adaptive property that can be found in differently designed and independently evolved neural substrates, such as the avian enbrain [8], is unknown. To address this question, we recorded single-cell activity from the nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL), a high-level avian association brain area [9-11], of numerically naive crows. We found that a proportion of NCL neurons were spontaneously responsive to numerosity and tuned to the number of items, even though the crows were never trained to assess numerical quantity. Our data show that numerosity-selective neuronal responses are spontaneously present in the distinct endbrains of diverge vertebrate taxa. This seemingly hard-wired property of the avian endbrain to extract numerical quantity explains how birds in the wild, or right after hatching, can exploit numerical cues when making foraging or social decisions. It suggests that endbrain circuitries that evolved based on convergent evolution, such as the avian endbrain, give rise to the same numerosity code.}, }
@article {pmid29548501, year = {2018}, author = {Merzagora, I and Amadasi, A and Blandino, A and Travaini, G}, title = {The expert and the foreigner: Reflections of forensic transcultural psychopathology on a total of 86 reports by experts on criminal liability.}, journal = {International journal of law and psychiatry}, volume = {57}, number = {}, pages = {24-30}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijlp.2017.12.005}, pmid = {29548501}, issn = {1873-6386}, mesh = {Adult ; Criminal Law/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Criminals/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Emigrants and Immigrants/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Expert Testimony/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; Forensic Psychiatry/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Humans ; Italy ; Male ; Mental Competency/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Persons with Psychiatric Disorders/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychopathology/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; }, abstract = {In recent times Italy has been experiencing massive migration flows, therefore the attention on the issue of crimes committed by foreigners is increasing. But within trials, in the evaluation of criminal liability of foreigners, how do experts deal with them? Do the performed evaluations take cultural diversity into account? The present study took origin from these questions and examined a total of 86 reports by experts on criminal liability of foreign persons (16 females and 70 males). Examinees have been declared indictable in 31 cases (36%), totally mentally ill in 40 cases (45%) and with diminished liability in 15 cases (17%); when liability was excluded, examinees were diagnosed in 11 cases with mood disorders, in 23 cases with personality disorders, in 4 cases with adaptation disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder and in 10 cases with different diagnoses (in some cases more than one diagnosis was present). None of the reports used the section of the DSM concerning "cultural framing". Tests were used in 48 surveys (56% of cases), with more tests for each examinee, for a total of 39 Rorschach, 14 Raven test, 8 Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory - MMPI - 4 Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale - WAIS - level test, 8 Thematic Apperception test. When subjects were diagnosed with mental disorder and with diminished liability, 42 (79%) were also socially dangerous. Results highlight the importance of the relationship between the expert and the foreigner. Many factors ought to be critically considered by experts dealing with foreigners, like cultural awareness, knowledge of verbal communication, critical consideration of meanings and diagnosis, knowledge of the foreigners' personal story, presence of tests with inexact information and cultural fallacy.}, }
@article {pmid29532636, year = {2018}, author = {Summa, M and Henttonen, H and Maunula, L}, title = {Human noroviruses in the faeces of wild birds and rodents-new potential transmission routes.}, journal = {Zoonoses and public health}, volume = {65}, number = {5}, pages = {512-518}, doi = {10.1111/zph.12461}, pmid = {29532636}, issn = {1863-2378}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Birds/*virology ; Caliciviridae Infections/*transmission/virology ; Feces/*virology ; Humans ; Mice ; Norovirus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Phylogeny ; Rats ; Rodentia/*virology ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {Human noroviruses (HuNoVs) are one of the leading global causes of diarrhoeal diseases and are transmitted mainly from person to person but also through contaminated food, water and fomites. The possible zoonotic nature of NoVs has occasionally been discussed, although the viruses are generally considered to be host-species-specific. We investigated whether wild birds and rodents could serve as carriers of HuNoVs, thereby transmitting the virus to humans directly or indirectly by contaminating foods. All samples, 115 avian and 100 rat faeces collected in springs 2009-2013 from dump sites, and 85 faeces from yellow-necked mice trapped in late autumn 2008 and 2009 after the rodents entered human settlements due to the first night frosts, were screened for HuNoV using real-time reverse transcription PCR. HuNoVs were detected in 31 (27%) faecal samples of wild birds, in two (2%) faecal samples of rats and in no samples of mice. Most (25) of the positive bird samples and both rat samples contained genogroup II, and six positive bird samples contained genogroup I HuNoV. The avian species shedding faeces containing HuNoVs were identified as gulls and crows using DNA barcoding. Our results show that wildlife, birds and rats in particular, is capable of spreading HuNoVs in the environment.}, }
@article {pmid29532403, year = {2018}, author = {von Davier, M}, title = {Automated Item Generation with Recurrent Neural Networks.}, journal = {Psychometrika}, volume = {83}, number = {4}, pages = {847-857}, pmid = {29532403}, issn = {1860-0980}, mesh = {Automation ; Humans ; Language ; *Machine Learning ; Models, Theoretical ; *Neural Networks, Computer ; Personality ; Personality Tests ; Psychometrics/methods ; }, abstract = {Utilizing technology for automated item generation is not a new idea. However, test items used in commercial testing programs or in research are still predominantly written by humans, in most cases by content experts or professional item writers. Human experts are a limited resource and testing agencies incur high costs in the process of continuous renewal of item banks to sustain testing programs. Using algorithms instead holds the promise of providing unlimited resources for this crucial part of assessment development. The approach presented here deviates in several ways from previous attempts to solve this problem. In the past, automatic item generation relied either on generating clones of narrowly defined item types such as those found in language free intelligence tests (e.g., Raven's progressive matrices) or on an extensive analysis of task components and derivation of schemata to produce items with pre-specified variability that are hoped to have predictable levels of difficulty. It is somewhat unlikely that researchers utilizing these previous approaches would look at the proposed approach with favor; however, recent applications of machine learning show success in solving tasks that seemed impossible for machines not too long ago. The proposed approach uses deep learning to implement probabilistic language models, not unlike what Google brain and Amazon Alexa use for language processing and generation.}, }
@article {pmid29530744, year = {2018}, author = {Dore, P and Dumani, A and Wyatt, G and Shepherd, AJ}, title = {Links between global and local shape perception, coloured backgrounds, colour discrimination, and non-verbal IQ.}, journal = {Vision research}, volume = {151}, number = {}, pages = {31-40}, doi = {10.1016/j.visres.2018.02.004}, pmid = {29530744}, issn = {1878-5646}, mesh = {Adult ; Color Perception/*physiology ; Color Perception Tests ; Female ; Form Perception/*physiology ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Retinal Cone Photoreceptor Cells/physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {This study explored associations between local and global shape perception on coloured backgrounds, colour discrimination, and non-verbal IQ (NVIQ). Five background colours were chosen for the local and global shape tasks that were tailored for the cone-opponent pathways early in the visual system (cardinal colour directions: L-M, loosely, reddish-greenish; and S-(L + M), or tritan colours, loosely, blueish-yellowish; where L, M and S refer to the long, middle and short wavelength sensitive cones). Participants also completed the Farnsworth-Munsell 100-hue test (FM100) to determine whether performance on the local and global shape tasks correlated with colour discrimination overall, or with performance on the L-M and tritan subsets of the FM100 test. Overall performance on the local and global shape tasks did correlate with scores on the FM100 tests, despite the colour of the background being irrelevant to the shape tasks. There were also significantly larger associations between scores for the L-M subset of the FM100 test, compared to the tritan subset, and accuracy on some of the shape tasks on the reddish, greenish and neutral backgrounds. Participants also completed the non-verbal components of the WAIS and the SPM+ version of Raven's progressive matrices, to determine whether performance on the FM100 test, and on the local and global shape tasks, correlated with NVIQ. FM100 scores correlated significantly with both WAIS and SPM+ scores. These results extend previous work that has indicated FM100 performance is not purely a measure of colour discrimination, but also involves aspects of each participant's NVIQ, such as the ability to attend to local and global aspects of the test, part-whole relationships, perceptual organisation and good visuomotor skills. Overall performance on the local and global shape tasks correlated only with the WAIS scores, not the SPM+. These results indicate that those aspects of NVIQ that engage spatial comprehension of local-global relationships and manual manipulation (WAIS), rather than more abstract reasoning (SPM+), are related to performance on the local and global shape tasks. Links are presented between various measures of NVIQ and performance on visual tasks, but they are currently seldom addressed in studies of either shape or colour perception. Further studies to explore these issues are recommended.}, }
@article {pmid29528812, year = {2018}, author = {Lawton, SJ and Weis, AM and Byrne, BA and Fritz, H and Taff, CC and Townsend, AK and Weimer, BC and Mete, A and Wheeler, S and Boyce, WM}, title = {Comparative analysis of Campylobacter isolates from wild birds and chickens using MALDI-TOF MS, biochemical testing, and DNA sequencing.}, journal = {Journal of veterinary diagnostic investigation : official publication of the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians, Inc}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {354-361}, pmid = {29528812}, issn = {1943-4936}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Bird Diseases/*microbiology ; Birds ; Campylobacter/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Campylobacter Infections/microbiology/*veterinary ; Chickens ; Phylogeny ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Poultry Diseases/microbiology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/*analysis ; Sequence Analysis, DNA/veterinary ; Spectrometry, Mass, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption-Ionization/veterinary ; }, abstract = {Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) was compared to conventional biochemical testing methods and nucleic acid analyses (16S rDNA sequencing, hippurate hydrolysis gene testing, whole genome sequencing [WGS]) for species identification of Campylobacter isolates obtained from chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus, n = 8), American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos, n = 17), a mallard duck (Anas platyrhynchos, n = 1), and a western scrub-jay (Aphelocoma californica, n = 1). The test results for all 27 isolates were in 100% agreement between MALDI-TOF MS, the combined results of 16S rDNA sequencing, and the hippurate hydrolysis gene PCR (p = 0.0027, kappa = 1). Likewise, the identifications derived from WGS from a subset of 14 isolates were in 100% agreement with the MALDI-TOF MS identification. In contrast, biochemical testing misclassified 5 isolates of C. jejuni as C. coli, and 16S rDNA sequencing alone was not able to differentiate between C. coli and C. jejuni for 11 sequences (p = 0.1573, kappa = 0.0857) when compared to MALDI-TOF MS and WGS. No agreement was observed between MALDI-TOF MS dendrograms and the phylogenetic relationships revealed by rDNA sequencing or WGS. Our results confirm that MALDI-TOF MS is a fast and reliable method for identifying Campylobacter isolates to the species level from wild birds and chickens, but not for elucidating phylogenetic relationships among Campylobacter isolates.}, }
@article {pmid29517437, year = {2018}, author = {Carrera-Játiva, PD and Morgan, ER and Barrows, M and Wronski, T}, title = {GASTROINTESTINAL PARASITES IN CAPTIVE AND FREE-RANGING BIRDS AND POTENTIAL CROSS-TRANSMISSION IN A ZOO ENVIRONMENT.}, journal = {Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine : official publication of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians}, volume = {49}, number = {1}, pages = {116-128}, doi = {10.1638/2016-0279R1.1}, pmid = {29517437}, issn = {1042-7260}, mesh = {Animals ; *Animals, Wild ; *Animals, Zoo ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology/transmission ; Birds ; Feces/parasitology ; Gastrointestinal Diseases/epidemiology/parasitology/*veterinary ; Parasitic Diseases, Animal/epidemiology/*parasitology/transmission ; United Kingdom/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Gastrointestinal parasites are commonly reported in wild birds, but transmission amongst avifauna in zoological settings, and between these captive birds and wild birds in surrounding areas, remains poorly understood. A survey was undertaken to investigate the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in captive and free-ranging birds at Bristol Zoo Gardens between May and July 2016. A total of 348 fecal samples from 32 avian species were examined using the Mini-FLOTAC flotation method. Parasites were detected in 31% (45/145) of samples from captive birds and in 65.5% (133/203) of samples from free-ranging birds. Parasites of captive individuals included ascarids (Heterakis spp. and other morphotypes), capillarids, oxyurids, strongyles, a trematode, and protozoans (Eimeria spp., Isospora spp., Caryospora sp., and Entamoeba spp.). Parasites of free-ranging birds included ascarids (Ascaridia spp., Porrocaecum spp., and other morphotypes), capillarids, oxyurids, strongyles (Syngamus spp. and other morphotypes), cestodes (Choanotaenia spp., Hymenolepis spp., and other morphotypes), a trematode, and protozoans (Eimeria spp., Isospora spp., Entamoeba spp.). Similar types of parasites were detected in captive and free-ranging birds, but capillarid ova morphology was similar only between closely related species, eg in corvids (captive azure-winged magpies [ Cyanipica cyana] and wild jackdaws [ Corvus monedula]) and between wild columbids (collared doves [ Streptopelia decaocto], rock doves [ Columba livia], and wood pigeons [ Columba palumbus]). The prevalence and intensity of nematodes and coccidia in birds housed outdoors did not differ statistically from species housed indoors. Results indicate that captive and free-ranging birds may share parasites when closely related, but this would need to be confirmed by the study of adult specimens and molecular tests. Determining which parasites are present in captive and free-ranging species in zoological parks will support the establishment of effective husbandry practices to maintain the health status of managed species.}, }
@article {pmid29515467, year = {2018}, author = {Kurachi, M and Takahashi, T and Sumiyoshi, T and Uehara, T and Suzuki, M}, title = {Early Intervention and a Direction of Novel Therapeutics for the Improvement of Functional Outcomes in Schizophrenia: A Selective Review.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychiatry}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {39}, pmid = {29515467}, issn = {1664-0640}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: A recent review reported that the median proportion of patients recovering from schizophrenia was 13.5% and that this did not change over time. Various factors including the duration of untreated psychosis, cognitive impairment, negative symptoms, and morphological changes in the brain influence the functional outcome of schizophrenia. The authors herein reviewed morphological changes in the brain of schizophrenia patients, effects of early intervention, and a direction of developing novel therapeutics to achieve significant improvement of the functional outcome.<br><br>METHODS: A selective review of the literature including studies from our department was performed.<br><br>RESULTS: Longitudinal structural neuroimaging studies on schizophrenia revealed that volume reductions in the peri-Sylvian regions (e.g., superior temporal gyrus and insula), which are related to positive psychotic symptoms, progress around the onset (critical stage) of schizophrenia, but become stable in the chronic stage. On the other hand, morphological changes in the fronto-thalamic regions and lateral ventricle, which are related to negative symptoms, neurocognitive dysfunction, and the functional outcome, progress during both the critical and chronic stages. These changes in the peri-Sylvian and fronto-thalamic regions may provide a pathophysiological basis for Crow's two-syndrome classification. Accumulated evidence from early intervention trials suggests that the transition risk from an at-risk mental state (ARMS) to psychosis is approximately 30%. Differences in the cognitive performance, event-related potentials (e.g., mismatch negativity), and brain morphology have been reported between ARMS subjects who later developed psychosis and those who did not. Whether early intervention for ARMS significantly improves the long-term recovery rate of schizophrenia patients remains unknown. With respect to the development of novel therapeutics, animal models of schizophrenia based on the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor hypofunction hypothesis successfully mimicked behavioral changes associated with cognitive impairments characteristic of the disease. Furthermore, these animal models elicited histological changes in the brain similar to those observed in schizophrenia patients, i.e., decreased numbers of parvalbumin-positive interneurons and dendritic spines of pyramidal neurons in the frontal cortex. Some antioxidant compounds were found to ameliorate these behavioral and histological abnormalities.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Early intervention coupled with novel therapeutics may offer a promising approach for substantial improvement of the functional outcome of schizophrenia patients.}, }
@article {pmid29514988, year = {2018}, author = {Xiao, M and Chen, W and Li, W and Zhao, J and Hong, YL and Nishiyama, Y and Miyoshi, T and Shawkey, MD and Dhinojwala, A}, title = {Elucidation of the hierarchical structure of natural eumelanins.}, journal = {Journal of the Royal Society, Interface}, volume = {15}, number = {140}, pages = {}, pmid = {29514988}, issn = {1742-5662}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows ; *Feathers/chemistry/metabolism/ultrastructure ; *Hair/chemistry/metabolism/ultrastructure ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy ; *Melanins/chemistry/metabolism ; Microscopy, Atomic Force ; *Nanoparticles/chemistry/ultrastructure ; *Pigmentation ; Sepia ; Species Specificity ; Turkeys ; }, abstract = {Eumelanin is one of the most ubiquitous pigments in living organisms and plays an important role in coloration and UV protection. Because eumelanin is highly cross-linked and insoluble in solvents, the chemical structure is still not completely known. In this study, we used atomic force microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to compare intact eumelanosomes (pigment granules mostly made of eumelanin) from four phylogentically distant species: cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) inks, black fish crow (Corvus ossifragus) feathers, iridescent wild turkey (Melleagris gallopavo) feathers and black human hair. We found that eumelanosomes from all four species are composed of subunit nanoparticles with a length of 10-60 nm, consistent with earlier observations in eumelanosomes from the sepia ink and human hair. The solid-state NMR results indicate the presence of quinone methide tautomers in all four eumelanins. We also found clear differences in the UV absorbance, the ratio of 5,6-dihydroxyindole-2-carboxylic acid/5,6-dihydroxyindole and protonated aryl carbon ratios in sepia eumelanin relative to the other three. This comparison of natural eumelanin across a phylogenetically broad group of organisms provides insights into the change in the eumelanin structure over the evolutionary history and enables the production of synthetic eumelanin with properties that are similar to natural eumelanin.}, }
@article {pmid29506438, year = {2018}, author = {Hofmeister, EK and Lund, M and Shearn Bochsler, V}, title = {West Nile Virus Infection in American Singer Canaries: An Experimental Model in a Highly Susceptible Avian Species.}, journal = {Veterinary pathology}, volume = {55}, number = {4}, pages = {531-538}, doi = {10.1177/0300985818760377}, pmid = {29506438}, issn = {1544-2217}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/*blood ; Bird Diseases/mortality/*pathology/virology ; Canaries/*virology ; Disease Models, Animal ; Disease Susceptibility/*veterinary ; RNA, Viral/blood ; Viremia/veterinary ; West Nile Fever/mortality/pathology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*immunology ; }, abstract = {This study investigated the susceptibility of American singer canaries (Serinus canaria) to West Nile virus (WNV) infection. Adult canaries were inoculated with 10[5], 10[2], and 10[1] plaque forming units (PFU) of WNV. All birds became infected and mortality occurred by 5 days postinoculation. The load of viral RNA as determined by RT-qPCR was dose dependent, and was higher at all doses than the level of viral RNA detected in American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) challenged with 10[5] PFU of WNV. In a subset of birds, viremia was detected by virus isolation; canaries inoculated with 10[1] PFU of WNV developed viremia exceeding 10[10] PFU/mL serum, a log higher than American crows inoculated with 10[5] PFU of virus. In canaries euthanized at 3 days postinoculation, WNV was isolated at >10[7] PFU of virus/100 mg of lung, liver, heart, spleen, and kidney tissues. Pallor of the liver and splenomegaly were the most common macroscopic observations and histologic lesions were most severe in liver, spleen, and kidney, particularly in canaries challenged with 10[2] and 10[1] PFU. Immunoreactivity to WNV was pronounced in the liver and spleen. IgG antibodies to WNV were detected in serum by enzyme immunoassay in 11 of 21 (52%) challenged canaries and, in 4 of 5 (20%) of these sera, neutralization antibodies were detected at a titer ≥ 1:20. American singer canaries provide a useful model as this bird species is highly susceptible to WNV infection.}, }
@article {pmid29502554, year = {2019}, author = {Ziada, KE and Metwaly, HAM and Bakhiet, SF and Cheng, H and Lynn, R}, title = {GENDER DIFFERENCES IN INTELLIGENCE OF 5- TO 11-YEAR-OLDS ON THE COLOURED PROGRESSIVE MATRICES IN EGYPT.}, journal = {Journal of biosocial science}, volume = {51}, number = {1}, pages = {154-156}, doi = {10.1017/S0021932018000020}, pmid = {29502554}, issn = {1469-7599}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Egypt ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Psychometrics ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {This study was based on data for a sample of 1756 Egyptian primary school children (863 boys and 893 girls) aged 5-11 years assessed for intelligence with Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM). The results showed that boys obtained a slightly higher IQ than girls and had greater variance.}, }
@article {pmid29500409, year = {2018}, author = {Kearns, AM and Restani, M and Szabo, I and Schrøder-Nielsen, A and Kim, JA and Richardson, HM and Marzluff, JM and Fleischer, RC and Johnsen, A and Omland, KE}, title = {Genomic evidence of speciation reversal in ravens.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {906}, pmid = {29500409}, issn = {2041-1723}, mesh = {Animals ; Breeding ; Crows/*genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; Gene Flow ; *Genetic Speciation ; *Genome ; *Genomics ; Geography ; Hybridization, Genetic ; Introns/genetics ; Mosaicism ; *Phylogeny ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; Reproductive Isolation ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Many species, including humans, have emerged via complex reticulate processes involving hybridisation. Under certain circumstances, hybridisation can cause distinct lineages to collapse into a single lineage with an admixed mosaic genome. Most known cases of such 'speciation reversal' or 'lineage fusion' involve recently diverged lineages and anthropogenic perturbation. Here, we show that in western North America, Common Ravens (Corvus corax) have admixed mosaic genomes formed by the fusion of non-sister lineages ('California' and 'Holarctic') that diverged ~1.5 million years ago. Phylogenomic analyses and concordant patterns of geographic structuring in mtDNA, genome-wide SNPs and nuclear introns demonstrate long-term admixture and random interbreeding between the non-sister lineages. In contrast, our genomic data support reproductive isolation between Common Ravens and Chihuahuan Ravens (C. cryptoleucus) despite extensive geographic overlap and a sister relationship between Chihuahuan Ravens and the California lineage. These data suggest that the Common Raven genome was formed by secondary lineage fusion and most likely represents a case of ancient speciation reversal that occurred without anthropogenic causes.}, }
@article {pmid29499250, year = {2018}, author = {Luo, Y and Zhang, L and Teng, Z and DeAngelis, DL}, title = {A parasitism-mutualism-predation model consisting of crows, cuckoos and cats with stage-structure and maturation delays on crows and cuckoos.}, journal = {Journal of theoretical biology}, volume = {446}, number = {}, pages = {212-228}, doi = {10.1016/j.jtbi.2018.02.028}, pmid = {29499250}, issn = {1095-8541}, mesh = {Animals ; Cats/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; *Models, Biological ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Predatory Behavior/*physiology ; *Symbiosis ; }, abstract = {In this paper, a parasitism-mutualism-predation model is proposed to investigate the dynamics of multi-interactions among cuckoos, crows and cats with stage-structure and maturation time delays on cuckoos and crows. The crows permit the cuckoos to parasitize their nestlings (eggs) on the crow chicks (eggs). In return, the cuckoo nestlings produce a malodorous cloacal secretion to protect the crow chicks from predation by the cats, which is apparently beneficial to both the crow and cuckoo population. The multi-interactions, i.e., parasitism and mutualism between the cuckoos (nestlings) and crows (chicks), predation between the cats and crow chicks are modeled both by Holling-type II and Beddington-DeAngelis-type functional responses. The existence of positive equilibria of three subsystems of the model are discussed. The criteria for the global stability of the trivial equilibrium are established by the Krein-Rutman theorem and other analysis methods. Moreover, the threshold dynamics for the coexistence and weak persistence of the model are obtained, and we show, both analytically and numerically, that the stabilities of the interior equilibria may change with the increasing maturation time delays. We find there exists an evident difference in the dynamical properties of the parasitism-mutualism-predation model based on whether or not we consider the effects of stage-structure and maturation time delays on cuckoos and crows. Inclusion of stage structure results in many varied dynamical complexities which are difficult to encompass without this inclusion.}, }
@article {pmid29493658, year = {2017}, author = {Boucherie, PH and Sosa, S and Pasquaretta, C and Dufour, V}, title = {Erratum: A longitudinal network analysis of social dynamics in rooks Corvus frugilegus: repeated group modifications do not affect social network in captive rooks.}, journal = {Current zoology}, volume = {63}, number = {4}, pages = {477}, doi = {10.1093/cz/zox045}, pmid = {29493658}, issn = {1674-5507}, abstract = {[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1093/cz/zow083.].}, }
@article {pmid29492785, year = {2018}, author = {Wright, AA and Kelly, DM and Katz, JS}, title = {Comparing cognition by integrating concept learning, proactive interference, and list memory.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {46}, number = {2}, pages = {107-123}, pmid = {29492785}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Cognition/*physiology ; Concept Formation/*physiology ; Discrimination Learning/physiology ; Haplorhini ; Learning/*physiology ; Memory/physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {This article describes an approach for training a variety of species to learn the abstract concept of same/different, which in turn forms the basis for testing proactive interference and list memory. The stimulus set for concept-learning training was progressively doubled from 8, 16, 32, 64, 128 . . . to 1,024 different pictures with novel-stimulus transfer following learning. All species fully learned the same/different abstract concept: capuchin and rhesus monkeys learned more readily than pigeons; nutcrackers and magpies were at least equivalent to monkeys and transferred somewhat better following initial training sets. A similar task using the 1,024-picture set plus delays was used to test proactive interference on occasional trials. Pigeons revealed greater interference with 10-s than with 1-s delays, whereas delay time had no effect on rhesus monkeys, suggesting that the monkeys' interference was event based. This same single-item same/different task was expanded to a 4-item list memory task to test animal list memory. Humans were tested similarly with lists of kaleidoscope pictures. Delays between the list and test were manipulated, resulting in strong initial recency effects (i.e., strong 4th-item memory) at short delays and changing to a strong primacy effect (i.e., strong 1st-item memory) at long delays (pigeons 0-s to 10-s delays; monkeys 0-s to 30-s delays; humans 0-s to 100-s delays). Results and findings are discussed in terms of these species' cognition and memory comparisons, evolutionary implications, and future directions for testing other species in these synergistically related tasks.}, }
@article {pmid29492692, year = {2018}, author = {Layton-Matthews, K and Ozgul, A and Griesser, M}, title = {The interacting effects of forestry and climate change on the demography of a group-living bird population.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {186}, number = {4}, pages = {907-918}, pmid = {29492692}, issn = {1432-1939}, mesh = {Animals ; *Climate Change ; Demography ; *Forestry ; Forests ; Sweden ; }, abstract = {Anthropogenic degradation of natural habitats is a global driver of wildlife population declines. Local population responses to such environmental perturbations are generally well understood, but in socially structured populations, interactions between environmental and social factors may influence population responses. Thus, understanding how habitat degradation affects the dynamics of these populations requires simultaneous consideration of social and environmental mechanisms underlying demographic responses. Here we investigated the effect of habitat degradation through commercial forestry on spatiotemporal dynamics of a group-living bird, the Siberian jay, Perisoreus infaustus, in boreal forests of northern Sweden. We assessed the interacting effects of forestry, climate and population density on stage-specific, seasonal life-history rates and population dynamics, using long-term, individual-based demographic data from 70 territories in natural and managed forests. Stage-specific survival and reproductive rates, and consequently population growth, were lower in managed forests than in natural forests. Population growth was most sensitive to breeder survival and was more sensitive to early dispersing juveniles than those delaying dispersal. Forestry decreased population growth in managed forests by reducing reproductive success and breeder survival. Increased snow depth improved winter survival, and warmer spring temperatures enhanced reproductive success, particularly in natural forests. Population growth was stable in natural forests but it was declining in managed forests, and this difference accelerated under forecasted climate scenarios. Thus, climatic change could exacerbate the rate of forestry-induced population decline through reduced snow cover in our study species, and in other species with similar life-history characteristics and habitat requirements.}, }
@article {pmid29492018, year = {2017}, author = {Duron, Q and Bourguet, E and De Meringo, H and Millon, A and Vidal, E}, title = {Invasive rats strengthen predation pressure on bird eggs in a South Pacific island rainforest.}, journal = {Current zoology}, volume = {63}, number = {6}, pages = {583-590}, pmid = {29492018}, issn = {1674-5507}, abstract = {Invasive rats (Rattus spp.) are known to have pervasive impacts on island birds, particularly on their nesting success. To conserve or restore bird populations, numerous invasive rat control or eradication projects are undertaken on islands worldwide. However, such projects represent a huge investment and the decision-making process requires proper assessment of rat impacts. Here, we assessed the influence of two sympatric invasive rats (Rattus rattus and R. exulans) on native bird eggs in a New Caledonian rainforest, using artificial bird-nest monitoring. A total of 178 artificial nests containing two eggs of three different sizes were placed either on the ground or 1.5 m high and monitored at the start of the birds' breeding season. Overall, 12.4% of the nests were depredated during the first 7 days. At site 1, where nests were monitored during 16 days, 41.8% of the nests were depredated. The main predator was the native crow Corvus moneduloides, responsible for 62.9% of the overall predation events. Rats were responsible for only 22.9% of the events, and ate only small and medium eggs at both heights. Our experiment suggests that in New Caledonia, predation pressure by rats strengthens overall bird-nest predation, adding to that by native predators. Experimental rat control operations may allow reduced predation pressure on nests as well as the recording of biodiversity responses after rat population reduction.}, }
@article {pmid29491998, year = {2017}, author = {Boucherie, PH and Sosa, S and Pasquaretta, C and Dufour, V}, title = {A longitudinal network analysis of social dynamics in rooks corvus frugilegus: repeated group modifications do not affect social network in captive rooks.}, journal = {Current zoology}, volume = {63}, number = {4}, pages = {379-388}, pmid = {29491998}, issn = {1674-5507}, abstract = {Numerous studies have investigated the remarkable variation of social features and the resulting structures across species. Indeed, relationships are dynamic and vary in time according to various factors such as environmental conditions or individuals attributes. However, few studies have investigated the processes that stabilize the structures within a given species, and the behavioral mechanisms that ensure their coherence and continuity across time. Here, we used a dynamic actor-based model, RSiena, to investigate the consistency of the temporal dynamic of relationships of a group of captive rooks facing recurrent modifications in group composition (i.e., the loss and introduction of individuals). We found that changes in relationships (i.e., formation and removal) followed consistent patterns regardless of group composition and sex-ratio. Rooks preferentially interacted with paired congeners (i.e., unpopular attachment) and were more likely to form relationships with individuals bonded to a current social partner (i.e., "friends of friends", or triadic closure). The sex of individuals had no effect on the dynamic of relationships. This robust behavioral mechanisms formed the basis of inter-connected networks, composed of sub-structures of individuals emerging from the enmeshment of dyadic and triadic motifs. Overall, the present study reveals crucial aspects of the behavioral mechanisms shaping rooks social structure, suggesting that rooks live in a well-integrated society, going far beyond the unique monogamous pair-bond.}, }
@article {pmid29491996, year = {2017}, author = {Pesendorfer, MB and Sillett, TS and Morrison, SA}, title = {Spatially biased dispersal of acorns by a scatter-hoarding corvid may accelerate passive restoration of oak habitat on California's largest island.}, journal = {Current zoology}, volume = {63}, number = {4}, pages = {363-367}, pmid = {29491996}, issn = {1674-5507}, abstract = {Scatter hoarding by corvids (crows, jays, magpies, and nutcrackers) provides seed dispersal for many large-seeded plants, including oaks and pines. When hoarding seeds, corvids often choose nonrandom locations throughout the landscape, resulting in differential survival of seeds. In the context of habitat restoration, such disproportional storing of seeds in areas suitable for germination and establishment can accelerate expansion and recovery of large-seeded tree populations and their associated ecosystems. Here, we investigate the spatial preferences of island scrub jays Aphelocoma insularis during scatter hoarding of acorns (Quercus spp.) on Santa Cruz Island. We use a large behavioral data set on the birds' behavior in combination with seedling surveys and spatial analysis to determine whether 1) island scrub jays disproportionally cache seeds in specific habitat types, and 2) whether the preferred habitat type is suitable for oak regeneration. Our results show that the jays nonrandomly cache acorns across the landscape; they use chaparral and coastal sage scrub disproportionally while avoiding open and grassy areas. The areas used most often for caching were also the areas with the highest oak seedling densities. We discuss the potential role of these findings for the recovery of Santa Cruz Island's oak habitat since the 1980s.}, }
@article {pmid29491479, year = {2018}, author = {Bose, A and Dürr, T and Klenke, RA and Henle, K}, title = {Collision sensitive niche profile of the worst affected bird-groups at wind turbine structures in the Federal State of Brandenburg, Germany.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {3777}, pmid = {29491479}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animal Distribution ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; *Ecosystem ; Flight, Animal/*physiology ; Germany ; *Power Plants ; Renewable Energy/*adverse effects ; Risk Assessment ; }, abstract = {Biodiversity-related impacts at wind energy facilities have increasingly become a cause of conservation concern, central issue being the collision of birds. Utilizing spatial information of their carcass detections at wind turbines (WTs), we quantified the detections in relation to the metric distances of the respective turbines to different land-use types. We used ecological niche factor analysis (ENFA) to identify combinations of land-use distances with respect to the spatial allocation of WTs that led to higher proportions of collisions among the worst affected bird-groups: Buntings, Crows, Larks, Pigeons and Raptors. We also assessed their respective similarities to the collision phenomenon by checking for overlaps amongst their distance combinations. Crows and Larks showed the narrowest "collision sensitive niche"; a part of ecological niche under higher risk of collisions with turbines, followed by that of Buntings and Pigeons. Raptors had the broadest niche showing significant overlaps with the collision sensitive niches of the other groups. This can probably be attributed to their larger home range combined with their hunting affinities to open landscapes. Identification of collision sensitive niches could be a powerful tool for landscape planning; helping avoid regions with higher risks of collisions for turbine allocations and thus protecting sensitive bird populations.}, }
@article {pmid29491247, year = {2018}, author = {Okamura, M and Kaneko, M and Ojima, S and Sano, H and Shindo, J and Shirafuji, H and Yamamoto, S and Tanabe, T and Yoshikawa, Y and Hu, DL}, title = {Differential Distribution of Salmonella Serovars and Campylobacter spp. Isolates in Free-Living Crows and Broiler Chickens in Aomori, Japan.}, journal = {Microbes and environments}, volume = {33}, number = {1}, pages = {77-82}, pmid = {29491247}, issn = {1347-4405}, mesh = {Animals ; Campylobacter/classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; Campylobacter Infections/epidemiology/veterinary ; Chickens/*microbiology ; Crows/*microbiology ; Electrophoresis, Gel, Pulsed-Field ; Genotype ; Japan/epidemiology ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Polymorphism, Restriction Fragment Length ; Poultry/microbiology ; Prevalence ; Salmonella/classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; Salmonella Infections, Animal/epidemiology ; Serogroup ; }, abstract = {Salmonella and Campylobacter cause foodborne enteritis mainly via the consumption of raw/undercooked contaminated poultry meat and products. Broiler flocks are primarily colonized with these bacteria; however, the underlying etiology remains unclear. The present study was conducted in order to obtain further information on the prevalence and genotypic distribution of Salmonella and Campylobacter in free-living crows and broiler flocks in a region for 2 years, thereby facilitating estimations of the potential risk of transmission of C. jejuni from crows to broiler flocks. Salmonella serovars Bredeney and Derby were isolated from 8 and 3 out of 123 captured crows, respectively, both of which are not common in broiler chickens. Campylobacter were isolated from all 89 crows tested and C. jejuni was prevalent (85 crows). Pulsed field gel electrophoresis showed broad diversity in the crow isolates of C. jejuni. However, 3 crow isolates and 2 broiler isolates showing similar banding patterns were assigned to different sequence types in multi-locus sequence typing. These results indicate that crows do not share Salmonella serovars with broilers, and harbor various genotypes of C. jejuni that differ from those of broiler flocks. Thus, our results indicate that crows are not a potential vector of these bacteria to broiler flocks in this region.}, }
@article {pmid31162436, year = {2018}, author = {Perret, P and Dauvier, B}, title = {Children's Allocation of Study Time during the Solution of Raven's Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Journal of Intelligence}, volume = {6}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {31162436}, issn = {2079-3200}, abstract = {The acuity of reasoning on Raven's Progressive Matrices is strongly influenced by strategic determinants. Building on metamemory studies that highlight the influence of study-time allocation on memory development, we investigated children's allocation of study time while solving these matrices. A total of 170 children aged 6-12 years completed a computerized short-form version of the standard matrices featuring items selected to represent a broad range of difficulties. Beyond analyzing changes in mean latencies and performances with age, we used generalized additive mixed models to explore within-participant variability in response times as a function of both item complexity and overall individual efficiency. Results revealed that individual differences in performances were significantly associated with children's adaptive modulation of response times. Mediation analysis further indicated that response-time modulation contributed to age-related changes in performance. Taking account of study-time allocation in reasoning tasks may open up new avenues for the study of reasoning development and the assessment of intellectual functioning.}, }
@article {pmid29475319, year = {2018}, author = {Romero-García, S and Moscoso-Mártir, A and Müller, J and Shen, B and Merget, F and Witzens, J}, title = {Wideband multi-stage CROW filters with relaxed fabrication tolerances.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {26}, number = {4}, pages = {4723-4737}, doi = {10.1364/OE.26.004723}, pmid = {29475319}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {We present wideband and large free spectral range optical filters with steep passband edges for the selection of adjacent WDM communication channels that can be reliably fabricated with mainstream silicon photonics technology. The devices are based on three cascaded stages of coupled resonator optical waveguides loaded on a common bus waveguide. These stages differ in the number of resonators but are implemented with exactly identical unit cells, comprised of a matched racetrack resonator layout and a uniform spacing between cells. The different number of resonators in each stage allows a high rejection in the through port response enabled by the interleaved distribution of zeros. Furthermore, the exact replication of a unique cell avoids the passband ripple and high lobes in the stopband that typically arise in apodized coupled resonator optical waveguide based filters due to fabrication and coupling induced variations in the effective path length of each resonator. Silicon photonics filters designed for the selection of 9 adjacent optical carriers generated by a 100 GHz free spectral range comb laser have been successfully fabricated with 248 nm DUV lithography, achieving an out-of-band rejection above 11 dB and an insertion loss of less than 0.5 dB for the worst channels.}, }
@article {pmid29458978, year = {2018}, author = {Prassack, KA and Pante, MC and Njau, JK and de la Torre, I}, title = {The paleoecology of Pleistocene birds from Middle Bed II, at Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania, and the environmental context of the Oldowan-Acheulean transition.}, journal = {Journal of human evolution}, volume = {120}, number = {}, pages = {32-47}, doi = {10.1016/j.jhevol.2017.11.003}, pmid = {29458978}, issn = {1095-8606}, mesh = {Animals ; *Archaeology ; Biota ; *Birds ; *Cultural Evolution ; *Environment ; *Fossils ; *Hominidae ; Paleontology ; Tanzania ; Technology ; }, abstract = {Fossil bird data (community composition and taphonomic profiles) are used here to infer the environmental context of the Oldowan-Acheulean transitional period at Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania. This is the first comprehensive report on the Middle Bed II avifauna and includes fossils excavated by the Olduvai Geochronology and Archaeology Project (OGAP) and recently rediscovered fossils collected by Mary Leakey. Crane, ibis, darter, owl, raptor, crow, and vulture are reported from Bed II for the first time. The presence of these taxa, absent earlier in this Bed, point to a general opening and drying of the landscape with grassland and open woodland expansion. Taxa associated with dense, emergent wetland vegetation, such as dabbling ducks and rails, are uncommon and less diverse than earlier in Bed II. This suggests more mature wetlands with clearer waters. Cormorants continue to be common, but are less diverse. Cormorants and other roosting taxa provide evidence of trees in the area. Compared to lowermost Bed II, the Middle to Upper Bed II landscape is interpreted here as more open and drier (but not necessarily more arid), with matured wetlands, scattered trees, and a greater expansion of grasslands.}, }
@article {pmid29457405, year = {2017}, author = {Xu, L and Hou, WK and Xu, P}, title = {[Morphology characteristics of sural bean bone and it's role in knee joint diseases].}, journal = {Zhongguo gu shang = China journal of orthopaedics and traumatology}, volume = {30}, number = {11}, pages = {1074-1076}, doi = {10.3969/j.issn.1003-0034.2017.11.022}, pmid = {29457405}, issn = {1003-0034}, mesh = {Humans ; Knee Joint ; Osteoarthritis, Knee/diagnosis/*pathology ; Sesamoid Bones/*pathology ; }, abstract = {Fabella is a common sesamoid bone. In recent years, people have paid more attention to its anatomic location, distribution characteristics in crow, importance in stabilizing knee joint and related diseases. This article reviews the anatomy, distribution and the relationship between the calf bone and the knee joint diseases, so as to strengthen the attention of the bones in the diagnosis and treatment of knee diseases.}, }
@article {pmid29456325, year = {2017}, author = {Singh, Y and Makharia, A and Sharma, A and Agrawal, K and Varma, G and Yadav, T}, title = {A study on different forms of intelligence in Indian school-going children.}, journal = {Industrial psychiatry journal}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {71-76}, pmid = {29456325}, issn = {0972-6748}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Most definitions of intelligence focus on capabilities that are relevant to scholastic performances. However, there are seven forms of intelligences. There is a lack of data on multiple intelligences in Indian children. Hence, this study was conducted to assess different forms of intelligences in students and compared these diverse intelligences with intelligence quotient (IQ) scores.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional observational study, we recruited 1065 school children between the age of 12 and 16 years from two government and 13 private schools in five towns, six cities, and two villages across India. All the children were administered multiple intelligences questionnaire by Armstrong, consisting of thirty true/false types of questions to assess the intelligences of a child in seven domains including linguistic skills, logical/mathematical abilities, musical skills, spatial intelligence, bodily-kinesthetic skills, intrapersonal intelligence, and interpersonal intelligence. IQ scores were assessed by Ravens Standard Progressive Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: We found that different students possessed different forms of intelligences and most students had more than one forms of intelligence. Of seven forms of intelligence, only three forms of intelligence such as logical/mathematical, musical, and spatial were positively correlated with the IQ score.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Even in the children with low IQ, many students had other forms of intelligences. The IQ scores correlated with only logical/mathematical, spatial, and musical intelligence. Hence, tapping the intelligences of students can help enhance their learning process. Our curriculum should have an amalgamation of teaching for all kinds of intelligences for maximum productivity.}, }
@article {pmid29454255, year = {2018}, author = {Jóźwiak, S and Veggiotti, P and Moreira, J and Gama, H and Rocha, F and Soares-da-Silva, P}, title = {Effects of adjunctive eslicarbazepine acetate on neurocognitive functioning in children with refractory focal-onset seizures.}, journal = {Epilepsy &amp; behavior : E&amp;B}, volume = {81}, number = {}, pages = {1-11}, doi = {10.1016/j.yebeh.2018.01.029}, pmid = {29454255}, issn = {1525-5069}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Anticonvulsants/*therapeutic use ; Attention/physiology ; Child ; Cognition/physiology ; Combined Modality Therapy ; Dibenzazepines/*therapeutic use ; Double-Blind Method ; Epilepsy/*drug therapy/physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory/physiology ; Quality of Life ; Seizures/*drug therapy/physiopathology ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: This was a phase-II, randomized, double-blind (DB), placebo-controlled study aimed to evaluate neurocognitive effects of eslicarbazepine acetate (ESL) as adjunctive therapy in pediatric patients with refractory focal-onset seizures (FOS).<br><br>METHODS: Children (6-16years old) with FOS were randomized (2:1) to ESL or placebo. Treatment started at 10mg/kg/day, was up-titrated up to 30mg/kg/day (target dose), and maintained for 8weeks, followed by one-year open-label follow-up. The primary endpoint was change from baseline to the end of maintenance period in the composite Power of Attention assessed with the Cognitive Drug Research (CDR) system. Behavioral and emotional functioning and quality of life (QOL), secondary endpoints, were assessed with Child Health Questionnaire-Parent Form 50 (CHQ-PF50), Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM). Efficacy was evaluated through changes in standardized seizure frequency (SF), responder rate, and proportion of seizure-free patients. Safety was evaluated by the incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs).<br><br>RESULTS: One hundred and twenty-three patients were randomized. A noninferiority analysis failed to reject the null hypothesis that the change from baseline in the Power of Attention score in the ESL group was at least 121ms inferior to the placebo group for all age groups. The CDR scores showed no differences between placebo and ESL in Power of Attention (1868.0 vs 1759.5), Continuity of Attention (1.136 vs -1.786), Quality of Working Memory (-0.023 vs -0.024), and Speed of Memory (-263.4 vs -249.6). Nonsignificant differences between placebo and ESL were seen for CHQ-PF50, CBCL scores, and Raven's SPM. Episodic Memory Index showed significant negative effect on ESL. Efficacy results favored the ESL group (SF least square [LS] means 1.98 vs 4.29). The TEAEs had a similar incidence between treatment groups (41.0% vs 47.5%).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Overall ESL did not produce statistically significant effects on neurocognitive and behavioral functioning in patients with epilepsy aged 6 to 16years. Additionally, ESL was effective in reducing seizure frequency and was well-tolerated.}, }
@article {pmid29447156, year = {2018}, author = {Maharaj, PD and Bosco-Lauth, AM and Langevin, SA and Anishchenko, M and Bowen, RA and Reisen, WK and Brault, AC}, title = {West Nile and St. Louis encephalitis viral genetic determinants of avian host competence.}, journal = {PLoS neglected tropical diseases}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {e0006302}, pmid = {29447156}, issn = {1935-2735}, support = {R01 CI000235/CI/NCPDCID CDC HHS/United States ; AI065359/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI061822/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI055607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; U54 AI065359/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; AI061822/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; AI55607/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/immunology/mortality/transmission/*virology ; Cross Protection/immunology ; Crows/virology ; Encephalitis Virus, St. Louis/*genetics/immunology/physiology ; Encephalitis, Viral/immunology/transmission/*veterinary/virology ; Finches/virology ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; Humans ; Phenotype ; Sparrows/virology ; Viral Nonstructural Proteins/genetics/immunology ; Viremia ; Virulence/genetics ; Virus Replication ; West Nile Fever/immunology/transmission/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*genetics/immunology/physiology ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) and St. Louis encephalitis (SLEV) virus are enzootically maintained in North America in cycles involving the same mosquito vectors and similar avian hosts. However, these viruses exhibit dissimilar viremia and virulence phenotypes in birds: WNV is associated with high magnitude viremias that can result in mortality in certain species such as American crows (AMCRs, Corvus brachyrhynchos) whereas SLEV infection yields lower viremias that have not been associated with avian mortality. Cross-neutralization of these viruses in avian sera has been proposed to explain the reduced circulation of SLEV since the introduction of WNV in North America; however, in 2015, both viruses were the etiologic agents of concurrent human encephalitis outbreaks in Arizona, indicating the need to re-evaluate host factors and cross-neutralization responses as factors potentially affecting viral co-circulation. Reciprocal chimeric WNV and SLEV viruses were constructed by interchanging the pre-membrane (prM)-envelope (E) genes, and viruses subsequently generated were utilized herein for the inoculation of three different avian species: house sparrows (HOSPs; Passer domesticus), house finches (Haemorhous mexicanus) and AMCRs. Cross-protective immunity between parental and chimeric viruses were also assessed in HOSPs. Results indicated that the prM-E genes did not modulate avian replication or virulence differences between WNV and SLEV in any of the three avian species. However, WNV-prME proteins did dictate cross-protective immunity between these antigenically heterologous viruses. Our data provides further evidence of the important role that the WNV / SLEV viral non-structural genetic elements play in viral replication, avian host competence and virulence.}, }
@article {pmid29439508, year = {2018}, author = {Fareed, J and Bacher, P and Jeske, W}, title = {Advances in Heparins and Related Research. An Epilogue.}, journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {23}, number = {2}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/molecules23020390}, pmid = {29439508}, issn = {1420-3049}, mesh = {Animals ; Biomedical Research/*history ; Blood Coagulation/physiology ; Cattle ; Heparin/analogs &amp; derivatives/biosynthesis/history/*therapeutic use ; Heparin Antagonists/therapeutic use ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Protamines/therapeutic use ; Quality Control ; Sheep ; Swine ; Thrombosis/blood/*drug therapy/history/physiopathology ; }, abstract = {The discovery of heparin in 1916 by Jay McLean, a medical student at Johns Hopkins University, not only provided a universal anticoagulant, but also laid the foundation for the discipline of hemostasis and thrombosis[...].}, }
@article {pmid29434390, year = {2018}, author = {Rale, VK and Kalia, VC}, title = {The Torch Bearer Microbiologist: Prof. J(Jay) Vakil (1927-2017).}, journal = {Indian journal of microbiology}, volume = {58}, number = {1}, pages = {1-2}, doi = {10.1007/s12088-018-0707-3}, pmid = {29434390}, issn = {0046-8991}, }
@article {pmid29430125, year = {2018}, author = {Marafi, FAR and Rasheed, R and Usmani, S and Alkandari, F and Iqbal, A}, title = {Significance of 18F-sodium Fluoride Positron Emission Tomography in Characterization of POEMS Osteosclerotic Lesions Better Than 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography.}, journal = {Indian journal of nuclear medicine : IJNM : the official journal of the Society of Nuclear Medicine, India}, volume = {33}, number = {1}, pages = {76-78}, pmid = {29430125}, issn = {0972-3919}, abstract = {Crow-Fukase syndrome (POEMS syndrome) is a rare systemic paraneoplastic syndrome. Bone lesions are manifested by sclerotic osteoblastic lesions often associated with bone pain. Characterization of osseous lesions is always crucial for clinical correlation and better patient management. We present a case where [18]F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography ([18]F-FDG PET/CT) was unable to characterize a clinically symptomatic patient, and [18]F-fluoride PET/CT showed excellent characterization of osteosclerotic lesions. The results were in correlation with already published data and showed that [18]F-fluoride PET/CT has better uptake in osteoblastic lesions in POEMS syndrome when compared to [18]F-FDG PET/CT and have superior imaging quality in assessing the bone lesions.}, }
@article {pmid29417053, year = {2017}, author = {Globig, A and Staubach, C and Sauter-Louis, C and Dietze, K and Homeier-Bachmann, T and Probst, C and Gethmann, J and Depner, KR and Grund, C and Harder, TC and Starick, E and Pohlmann, A and Höper, D and Beer, M and Mettenleiter, TC and Conraths, FJ}, title = {Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N8 Clade 2.3.4.4b in Germany in 2016/2017.}, journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {240}, pmid = {29417053}, issn = {2297-1769}, abstract = {Here, we report on the occurrence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5Nx clade 2.3.4.4b in Germany. Between November 8, 2016, and September 30, 2017, more than 1,150 cases of HPAI H5Nx clade 2.3.4.4b in wild birds and 107 outbreaks in birds kept in captivity (92 poultry holdings and 15 zoos/animal parks) were reported in Germany. This HPAI epidemic is the most severe recorded in Germany so far. The viruses were apparently introduced by migratory birds, sparking an epidemic among wild birds across Germany with occasional incursions into poultry holdings, zoos and animal parks, which were usually rapidly detected and controlled by stamping out. HPAI viruses (mainly subtype H5N8, in a few cases also H5N5) were found in dead wild birds of at least 53 species. The affected wild birds were water birds (including gulls, storks, herons, and cormorants) and scavenging birds (birds of prey, owls, and crows). In a number of cases, substantial gaps in farm biosecurity may have eased virus entry into the holdings. In a second wave of the epidemic starting from February 2017, there was epidemiological and molecular evidence for virus transmission of the infections between commercial turkey holdings in an area of high poultry density, which caused approximately 25% of the total number of outbreaks in poultry. Biosecurity measures in poultry holdings should be adapted. This includes, inter alia, wearing of stable-specific protective clothing and footwear, cleaning, and disinfection of equipment that has been in contact with birds and prevention of contacts between poultry and wild water birds.}, }
@article {pmid29416368, year = {2018}, author = {Milani, M and Sparavigna, A}, title = {Antiaging efficacy of melatonin-based day and night creams: a randomized, split-face, assessor-blinded proof-of-concept trial.}, journal = {Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {51-57}, pmid = {29416368}, issn = {1178-7015}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Skin is a complete and independent melatoninergic system. At the skin level, melatonin (Mel) acts as a relevant antioxidant and cytoprotective substance. Topical application of Mel is considered meaningful, since it can easily penetrate the stratum corneum. Exogenous Mel can be expected to represent a potent antioxidative defense system against skin aging mechanisms. Day and night creams containing Mel, carried in lipospheres (Melatosphere™), have been developed (Nutriage SPF 30 day cream and Nutriage night cream).<br><br>STUDY AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a Mel-based cream as antiaging treatment.<br><br>SUBJECTS AND METHODS: In a randomized, split-face, assessor-blinded, prospective 3-month study, 22 women (mean age 55 years) with moderate-severe skin aging were enrolled (clinical trial registration number: NCT03276897). Study products were applied in the morning (Nutriage day cream) and evening (Nutriage night cream) on the right or left side of the face. Primary outcomes were: 1) clinical evaluation of wrinkles' grade (crow's feet and nasolabial folds), surface microrelief, skin tonicity (resistance to pinching and traction, recovery after pinching) and skin dryness and 2) instrumental evaluation of skin roughness and 3D photographic documentation (Vectra H1 images system). Assessments of both clinical and instrumental evaluations were performed at baseline and after 1, 2 and 3 months of treatment by an investigator unaware of treatment allocation.<br><br>RESULTS: All the subjects completed the study. Crow's feet was reduced significantly (p=0.05) by -15% with the creams in comparison with the non-treated side after 3 months. At the end of the study, surface microrelief (-26.5%), skin profilometry (-13%), skin tonicity (+30%) and skin dryness (-59.5%) significantly improved with active treatment. Both products were well tolerated.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In women with skin aging, Mel-based creams improved significantly skin tonicity and skin hydration with a significant reduction in skin roughness, supporting the skin antiaging effect of this molecule applied topically.}, }
@article {pmid29414945, year = {2018}, author = {Ashton, BJ and Ridley, AR and Edwards, EK and Thornton, A}, title = {Cognitive performance is linked to group size and affects fitness in Australian magpies.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {554}, number = {7692}, pages = {364-367}, pmid = {29414945}, issn = {1476-4687}, support = {BB/H021817/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/physiology ; Australia ; *Biological Evolution ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; *Genetic Fitness ; Intelligence/physiology ; Male ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Population Density ; Reproduction/physiology ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {The social intelligence hypothesis states that the demands of social life drive cognitive evolution. This idea receives support from comparative studies that link variation in group size or mating systems with cognitive and neuroanatomical differences across species, but findings are contradictory and contentious. To understand the cognitive consequences of sociality, it is also important to investigate social variation within species. Here we show that in wild, cooperatively breeding Australian magpies, individuals that live in large groups show increased cognitive performance, which is linked to increased reproductive success. Individual performance was highly correlated across four cognitive tasks, indicating a 'general intelligence factor' that underlies cognitive performance. Repeated cognitive testing of juveniles at different ages showed that the correlation between group size and cognition emerged in early life, suggesting that living in larger groups promotes cognitive development. Furthermore, we found a positive association between the task performance of females and three indicators of reproductive success, thus identifying a selective benefit of greater cognitive performance. Together, these results provide intraspecific evidence that sociality can shape cognitive development and evolution.}, }
@article {pmid29410861, year = {2018}, author = {McIvor, GE and Lee, VE and Thornton, A}, title = {Testing social learning of anti-predator responses in juvenile jackdaws: the importance of accounting for levels of agitation.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {5}, number = {1}, pages = {171571}, pmid = {29410861}, issn = {2054-5703}, support = {BB/H021817/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {Social learning is often assumed to help young animals respond appropriately to potential threats in the environment. We brought wild, juvenile jackdaws briefly into captivity to test whether short exposures to conspecific vocalizations are sufficient to promote anti-predator learning. Individuals were presented with one of two models-a stuffed fox representing a genuine threat, or a toy elephant simulating a novel predator. Following an initial baseline presentation, juveniles were trained by pairing models with either adult mobbing calls, indicating danger, or contact calls suggesting no danger. In a final test phase with no playbacks, birds appeared to have habituated to the elephant, regardless of training, but responses to the fox remained high throughout, suggesting juveniles already recognized it as a predator before the experiment began. Training with mobbing calls did seem to generate elevated escape responses, but this was likely to be a carry-over effect of the playback in the previous trial. Overall, we found little evidence for social learning. Instead, individuals' responses were mainly driven by their level of agitation immediately preceding each presentation. These results highlight the importance of accounting for agitation in studies of anti-predator learning, and whenever animals are held in captivity for short periods.}, }
@article {pmid29388846, year = {2018}, author = {Choi, SY and Hong, JY and Ko, EJ and Kim, BJ and Hong, SW and Lim, MH and Yeon, SH and Son, RH}, title = {Protective effects of fermented honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia) extract (HU-018) against skin aging: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology}, volume = {20}, number = {5}, pages = {313-318}, doi = {10.1080/14764172.2017.1418512}, pmid = {29388846}, issn = {1476-4180}, mesh = {Adult ; Antioxidants/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; *Cyclopia Plant ; Double-Blind Method ; Elasticity/drug effects ; Eye ; Female ; Fermentation ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Phytotherapy/adverse effects ; Plant Extracts/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Rejuvenation ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Skin Physiological Phenomena/*drug effects ; Water Loss, Insensible/drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Oxidative stress and photodamage resulting from ultraviolet radiation exposure play key roles in skin aging. Fermented Cyclopia intermedia, which is used to brew honeybush tea, exerts antioxidant and anti-wrinkle effects by inhibiting reactive oxygen species production and downregulating matrix metalloproteinase activity.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fermented honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia) extract (HU-018) for skin rejuvenation.<br><br>METHODS: 120 Korean subjects with crow's feet wrinkles were randomized to receive either low-dose extract (400&#xa0;mg/day), high-dose extract (800&#xa0;mg/day), or placebo (negative control, only dextran) for 12&#xa0;weeks. Wrinkles were evaluated using JANUS[&#xae;] and PRIMO pico[&#xae;]. Skin elasticity, hydration and transepidermal water loss were measured.<br><br>RESULTS: Global skin wrinkle grade was significantly improved in both low-dose and high-dose groups compared to placebo group, as well as for skin hydration and elasticity. Both the low- and high-dose groups showed significantly decreased TEWL compared to the placebo group. There were no adverse effects during the entire study period.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our data indicate that HU-018 is effective for improving skin wrinkles, elasticity, and hydration. Therefore, daily supplementation with fermented honeybush could be helpful for protecting against skin aging.}, }
@article {pmid29386519, year = {2018}, author = {Stanford, R and Lockley, MG and Tucker, C and Godfrey, S and Stanford, SM}, title = {A diverse mammal-dominated, footprint assemblage from wetland deposits in the Lower Cretaceous of Maryland.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {741}, pmid = {29386519}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Fossils ; Geography ; Geologic Sediments ; *Mammals ; Maryland ; Paleontology ; *Wetlands ; }, abstract = {A newly discovered assemblage of predominantly small tracks from the Cretaceous Patuxent Formation at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, Maryland, reveals one of the highest track densities and diversities ever reported (~70 tracks, representing at least eight morphotypes from an area of only ~2 m[2]). The assemblage is dominated by small mammal tracks including the new ichnotxon Sederipes goddardensis, indicating sitting postures. Small crow-sized theropod trackways, the first from this unit, indicate social trackmakers and suggest slow-paced foraging behavior. Tracks of pterosaurs, and other small vertebrates suggest activity on an organic-rich substrate. Large well-preserved sauropod and nodosaurs tracks indicate the presence of large dinosaurs. The Patuxent Formation together with the recently reported Angolan assemblage comprise the world's two largest Mesozoic mammal footprint assemblages. The high density of footprint registration at the NASA site indicates special preservational and taphonomic conditions. These include early, penecontemporaneous deposition of siderite in organic rich, reducing wetland settings where even the flesh of body fossils can be mummified. Thus, the track-rich ironstone substrates of the Patuxent Formation, appear to preserve a unique vertebrate ichnofacies, with associated, exceptionally-preserved body fossil remains for which there are currently no other similar examples preserved in the fossil record.}, }
@article {pmid29382499, year = {2017}, author = {Sala, JE}, title = {[The jibarization of logos: how medical reductionism can kill].}, journal = {Boletin medico del Hospital Infantil de Mexico}, volume = {74}, number = {2}, pages = {154-163}, doi = {10.1016/j.bmhimx.2016.11.009}, pmid = {29382499}, issn = {1665-1146}, mesh = {Delivery of Health Care/*organization &amp; administration ; Humans ; Models, Theoretical ; *Philosophy, Medical ; *Public Health ; }, abstract = {In recent decades, a disciplinary and subdisciplinary proliferation has triggered both in the medical fields and science in general. This trend may be partially explained by two diachronic, dialectically interconnected facts: the deepening of technical, social and international division of labor in the globalized capitalist world, and the triumph of the reductionist program, mainly developed by the logical empiricism of the Vienna Circle. This paper aims to deepen the debate on the intricate links between medicine, biology, philosophy, reductionism and complex thought, by using two examples: a case report of current medicine and the situation experienced by a famous American scientist, Stephen Jay Gould, about his first cancer, an abdominal mesothelioma. We have witnessed how the two above-mentioned historical facts have been operating as a super-structure like a pair of "tweezers", dismembering and compressing at the same moment the object of knowledge, the theories that allow their study, and the subject that receives the knowledge. This jibarization of logos is a real problem for public health, from the moment that it impacts, omnipresent, in the actual hegemonic medical model, leading to potentially dangerous attitudes to the various components of health systems.}, }
@article {pmid29377397, year = {2018}, author = {Wang, X and Shu, X and Li, Z and Huo, W and Zou, L and Tang, Y and Li, L}, title = {Comparison of two kinds of skin imaging analysis software: VISIA[®] from Canfield and IPP[®] from Media Cybernetics.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {24}, number = {3}, pages = {379-385}, doi = {10.1111/srt.12440}, pmid = {29377397}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; Hyperpigmentation/*diagnostic imaging ; *Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Linear Models ; Middle Aged ; Skin/*diagnostic imaging ; *Skin Aging ; *Software ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Skin imaging analysis, acting as a supplement to noninvasive bioengineering devices, has been widely used in medical cosmetology and cosmetic product evaluation. The main aim of this study is to assess the differences and correlations in measuring skin spots, wrinkles, vascular features, porphyrin, and pore between two commercially available image analysis software.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy healthy women were included in the study. Before taking pictures, the dermatologist evaluated subjects' skin conditions. Test sites included the forehead, cheek, and periorbital skin. A 2&#xa0;&#xd7;&#xa0;2&#xa0;cm cardboard was used to make a mark on the skin surface. Pictures were taken using VISIA[&#xae;] under three kinds light conditions and analyzed using VISIA[&#xae;] and IPP[&#xae;] respectively.<br><br>RESULTS: (1) Skin pore, red area, ultraviolet spot, brown spot, porphyrin, and wrinkle measured with VISIA[&#xae;] were correlated with those measured with IPP[&#xae;] (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;.01). (2) Spot, wrinkle, fine line, brown spot, and red area analyzed with VISIA[&#xae;] were correlated with age on the forehead and periorbital skin (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;.05). L-value, Crow's feet, ultraviolet spot, brown spot, and red area analyzed with IPP[&#xae;] were correlated with age on the periorbital skin (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;.05). (3) L-value, spot, wrinkle, fine line, porphyrin, red area, and pore analyzed with VISIA[&#xae;] and IPP[&#xae;] showed correlations with the subjective evaluation scores (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;.05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: VISIA[&#xae;] and IPP[&#xae;] showed acceptable correlation in measuring various skin conditions. VISIA[&#xae;] showed a high sensibility when measured on the forehead skin. IPP[&#xae;] is available as an alternative software program to evaluate skin features.}, }
@article {pmid29375193, year = {2018}, author = {Maziarz, M and Piggott, C and Burgess, M}, title = {Predator recognition and differential behavioural responses of adult wood warblers Phylloscopus sibilatrix.}, journal = {Acta ethologica}, volume = {21}, number = {1}, pages = {13-20}, pmid = {29375193}, issn = {0873-9749}, abstract = {Birds often engage in nest defence against predators to improve breeding success, but defence efficiency requires the capability to assess the threat level posed by potential predators. For species with low breeding-site tenacity, which may encounter varying occurrence and density of predators in different areas, threat recognition could be compromised due to naivety, and so predator recognition may focus on broad key features to diminish the risk of misidentification. We experimentally tested this hypothesis by recording behavioural reactions of the nomadic wood warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix to objects reflecting various levels of threat: least weasel and Eurasian jay taxidermy mounts, an inanimate object and an empty display mount. To assess actual nest predators, we used remote cameras to record predation events at wood warbler nests. As in other studies in Western Europe, Eurasian jay was found to be the main nest predator, with occasional predation by least weasel. The reaction of adult warblers to the models was generally to remain silent and on nests during the incubation stage presumably due to the need to maintain efficient nest camouflage and concealment. During the nestling stage, behavioural responses of adult warblers, calling and suspended feeding of young, showed the strongest effects from the jay taxidermy mount, moderate to the weasel and weakest to the inanimate object and empty mount. As the reaction of wood warblers reflected the degree of genuine threat posed by the predators depicted by the models, we conclude that predator recognition may be present in this species.}, }
@article {pmid29373167, year = {2018}, author = {Claes, R and Muyshondt, PGG and Dirckx, JJJ and Aerts, P}, title = {Do high sound pressure levels of crowing in roosters necessitate passive mechanisms for protection against self-vocalization?.}, journal = {Zoology (Jena, Germany)}, volume = {126}, number = {}, pages = {65-70}, doi = {10.1016/j.zool.2017.12.002}, pmid = {29373167}, issn = {1873-2720}, mesh = {Animals ; Chickens/*physiology ; Crowding/psychology ; Ear/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Female ; Male ; Sex Characteristics ; Sound/adverse effects ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {High sound pressure levels (>120dB) cause damage or death of the hair cells of the inner ear, hence causing hearing loss. Vocalization differences are present between hens and roosters. Crowing in roosters is reported to produce sound pressure levels of 100dB measured at a distance of 1m. In this study we measured the sound pressure levels that exist at the entrance of the outer ear canal. We hypothesize that roosters may benefit from a passive protective mechanism while hens do not require such a mechanism. Audio recordings at the level of the entrance of the outer ear canal of crowing roosters, made in this study, indeed show that a protective mechanism is needed as sound pressure levels can reach amplitudes of 142.3dB. Audio recordings made at varying distances from the crowing rooster show that at a distance of 0.5m sound pressure levels already drop to 102dB. Micro-CT scans of a rooster and chicken head show that in roosters the auditory canal closes when the beak is opened. In hens the diameter of the auditory canal only narrows but does not close completely. A morphological difference between the sexes in shape of a bursa-like slit which occurs in the outer ear canal causes the outer ear canal to close in roosters but not in hens.}, }
@article {pmid29364882, year = {2018}, author = {Torres-Vargas, J and Jiménez-Coello, M and Guzmán-Marín, E and Acosta-Viana, KY and Yadon, ZE and Gutiérrez-Blanco, E and Guillermo-Cordero, JL and Garg, NJ and Ortega-Pacheco, A}, title = {Quantitative and histological assessment of maternal-fetal transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi in guinea pigs: An experimental model of congenital Chagas disease.}, journal = {PLoS neglected tropical diseases}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {e0006222}, pmid = {29364882}, issn = {1935-2735}, support = {R01 AI054578/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI054578/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Protozoan/blood ; Chagas Disease/*pathology/*transmission ; Disease Models, Animal ; Female ; Guinea Pigs ; Histocytochemistry ; Humans ; Immunoglobulin G/blood ; *Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical ; *Maternal-Fetal Exchange ; Parasite Load ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/*pathology ; Trypanosoma cruzi/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the effect of Trypanosoma cruzi infection on fertility, gestation outcome, and maternal-fetal transmission in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus).<br><br>METHODS: Animals were infected with T. cruzi H4 strain (TcI lineage) before gestation (IBG) or during gestation (IDG). Tissue and sera samples of dams and fetuses were obtained near parturition.<br><br>RESULTS: All IBG and IDG dams were seropositive by two tests, and exhibited blood parasite load of 1.62&#xb1;2.2 and 50.1&#xb1;62 parasites/&#x3bc;l, respectively, by quantitative PCR. Histological evaluation showed muscle fiber degeneration and cellular necrosis in all infected dams. Parasite nests were not detected in infected dams by histology. However, qPCR analysis detected parasites-eq/g heart tissue of 153&#xb1;104.7 and 169.3&#xb1;129.4 in IBG and IDG dams, respectively. All fetuses of infected dams were positive for anti-parasite IgG antibodies and tissue parasites by qPCR, but presented a low level of tissue inflammatory infiltrate. Fetuses of IDG (vs. IBG) dams exhibited higher degree of muscle fiber degeneration and cellular necrosis in the heart and skeletal tissues. The placental tissue exhibited no inflammatory lesions and amastigote nests, yet parasites-eq/g of 381.2&#xb1;34.3 and 79.2&#xb1;84.9 were detected in IDG and IBG placentas, respectively. Fetal development was compromised, and evidenced by a decline in weight, crow-rump length, and abdominal width in both groups.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: T. cruzi TcI has a high capacity of congenital transmission even when it was inoculated at a very low dose before or during gestation. Tissue lesions, parasite load, and fetal under development provide evidence for high virulence of the parasite during pregnancy. Despite finding of high parasite burden by qPCR, placentas were protected from cellular damage. Our studies offer an experimental model to study the efficacy of vaccines and drugs against congenital transmission of T. cruzi. These results also call for T. cruzi screening in pregnant women and adequate follow up of the newborns in endemic areas.}, }
@article {pmid29361607, year = {2018}, author = {Stavenga, DG and Leertouwer, HL and Wilts, BD}, title = {Magnificent magpie colours by feathers with layers of hollow melanosomes.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {221}, number = {Pt 4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.174656}, pmid = {29361607}, issn = {1477-9145}, mesh = {Animals ; Color ; Feathers/*physiology ; Melanosomes/*chemistry/*ultrastructure ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Microscopy, Electron, Transmission ; Models, Chemical ; Pigmentation/*physiology ; Songbirds/*physiology ; Spectrum Analysis ; }, abstract = {The blue secondary and purple-to-green tail feathers of magpies are structurally coloured owing to stacks of hollow, air-containing melanosomes embedded in the keratin matrix of the barbules. We investigated the spectral and spatial reflection characteristics of the feathers by applying (micro)spectrophotometry and imaging scatterometry. To interpret the spectral data, we performed optical modelling, applying the finite-difference time domain (FDTD) method as well as an effective media approach, treating the melanosome stacks as multi-layers with effective refractive indices dependent on the component media. The differently coloured magpie feathers are realised by adjusting the melanosome size, with the diameter of the melanosomes as well as their hollowness being the most sensitive parameters that influence the appearance of the feathers.}, }
@article {pmid29360051, year = {2018}, author = {Pluta, A and Kulesza, M and Grzegorzewski, P and Kucharska, K}, title = {Assessing advanced theory of mind and alexithymia in patients suffering from enduring borderline personality disorder.}, journal = {Psychiatry research}, volume = {261}, number = {}, pages = {436-441}, doi = {10.1016/j.psychres.2018.01.003}, pmid = {29360051}, issn = {1872-7123}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Affective Symptoms/*diagnosis/epidemiology/*psychology ; Anxiety/diagnosis/epidemiology/psychology ; Borderline Personality Disorder/*diagnosis/epidemiology/*psychology ; Comorbidity ; Depression/diagnosis/epidemiology/psychology ; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Personality Assessment/standards ; Personality Inventory/standards ; *Theory of Mind/physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Findings on the theory of mind (ToM) abilities in borderline personality disorder (BPD) have been inconsistent. Surprisingly, no studies have focused on the complex aspects of ToM while simultaneously measuring alexithymia as well as comorbid depressive and anxiety symptoms, therefore, our study aimed to fill this gap. 30 female patients with BPD and 38 healthy controls (HCs) completed the Faux Pas Test (FPT) and the Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20 (TAS-20). The clinical and intellectual assessment comprised of the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV-TR Axis II Disorders (SCID-II), the Borderline Personality Inventory (BPI), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale-Revised (CESD-R), and the Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM). Women with BPD scored significantly worse than HCs on overall ToM abilities. After controlling for the intelligence level, depressive symptoms, and state and trait anxiety, both groups presented a similar overall level of alexithymia. No correlation between the FPT and TAS-20 scores was found, suggesting that both constructs might be unrelated in BPD. Because ToM dysfunctions seem not to result from comorbid clinical symptoms, trait anxiety, or intellectual abilities, our study results suggest that ToM deficits might be considered a core feature of BPD.}, }
@article {pmid29358606, year = {2018}, author = {St Clair, JJH and Klump, BC and Sugasawa, S and Higgott, CG and Colegrave, N and Rutz, C}, title = {Hook innovation boosts foraging efficiency in tool-using crows.}, journal = {Nature ecology &amp; evolution}, volume = {2}, number = {3}, pages = {441-444}, doi = {10.1038/s41559-017-0429-7}, pmid = {29358606}, issn = {2397-334X}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The New Caledonian crow is the only non-human animal known to craft hooked tools in the wild, but the ecological benefit of these relatively complex tools remains unknown. Here, we show that crows acquire food several times faster when using hooked rather than non-hooked tools, regardless of tool material, prey type and extraction context. This implies that small changes to tool shape can strongly affect energy-intake rates, highlighting a powerful driver for technological advancement.}, }
@article {pmid29344961, year = {2018}, author = {Colomb, L and Flament, F and Wagle, A and Idelcaid, Y and Agrawal, D}, title = {In vivo evaluation of some biophysical parameters of the facial skin of Indian subjects living in Mumbai. Part II: Variability with age and gender.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {40}, number = {2}, pages = {141-147}, doi = {10.1111/ics.12445}, pmid = {29344961}, issn = {1468-2494}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Biophysics ; Face/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; India ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Sebum/metabolism ; *Skin Physiological Phenomena ; Skin Pigmentation ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: A previously published work explored the diversity of some biophysical parameters (colour, elasticity, sebum production, skin microrelief, etc.) of the skin of 1204 Indian women, differently aged, living in four Indian cities (Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai). The present work aimed at completing such research by focusing on possible gender-related differences in the same skin parameters, between Indian men and women living in the same Indian city (Mumbai).<br><br>METHODS: A total of 297 Indian men, differently aged (18-70y), were recruited in Mumbai, completing the panel of 303 women who were previously recruited in this same city. The same instrumental measurements of facial skin colour and its homogeneity, its mechanical properties, the sebum production, skin pores size, skin relief, etc. as in the previous work, were conducted.<br><br>RESULTS: Overall, the facial skin colour shows a darker complexion in men as compared to women, on forehead, ocular region, lips, chin and cheek. The skin colour unevenness, which increases with age, was found higher in men, as compared to women. At comparable age, women and men present a same density of skin pores, whereas those of men appear larger, up to 55y. The deepness of Crow's feet wrinkles does not significantly differ between genders. A lesser extensibility was found on the cheeks of men. In men, the sebum production was found significantly higher than that of women at ages above 40y.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This work indicates some commonly shared age-related skin features between women and men from Mumbai, despite slight different characteristics such as skin pigmentation, forehead/cheek colour contrast, mechanical properties and sebum production.}, }
@article {pmid29344324, year = {2017}, author = {Muti, GF and Basso, M}, title = {Treatment of Lateral Periorbital Lines with Different Dilutions of IncobotulinumtoxinA.}, journal = {The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology}, volume = {10}, number = {9}, pages = {27-29}, pmid = {29344324}, issn = {1941-2789}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: IncobotulinumtoxinA is a botulinum neurotoxin type A that is free from complexing proteins and is used in various therapeutic indications and aesthetic medicine. It is approved for the treatment of glabellar frown lines in the United States. In Europe, it is also approved for the treatment of lateral periorbital lines (crow's feet) and for the combined treatment of upper facial lines, including glabellar frown lines, crow's feet, and horizontal forehead lines. METHODS: In the present study, incobotulinumtoxinA was injected at two different dilutions to treat female subjects aged 40 to 50 years who had moderate-to-severe lateral periorbital lines at maximum contraction according to a score of 2 or 3 points on the 5-point Merz Aesthetics Scales (MAS). For Group 1 (n=20), 50U of incobotulinumtoxinA were reconstituted with 1.60mL of 0.9% NaCI, and for Group 2 (n=20), a reconstitution volume of 0.55mL was used. RESULTS: Merz Aesthetics Scales scores were markedly improved by at least one point in both groups at one month and three months. The mean Merz Aesthetics Scales scores at one month were 0.4 and 0.6 points for Group 1 and Group 2, respectively, corresponding to a mean improvement of 2.0 and 1.8 points compared with baseline, respectively. CONCLUSION: No significant differences in efficacy and tolerability of incobotulinumtoxinA were seen between the two dilutions at any time point.}, }
@article {pmid29342669, year = {2017}, author = {Pepperberg, IM}, title = {"Birdbrains" should not be ignored in studying the evolution of g.}, journal = {The Behavioral and brain sciences}, volume = {40}, number = {}, pages = {e216}, doi = {10.1017/S0140525X16001758}, pmid = {29342669}, issn = {1469-1825}, mesh = {Animals ; *Intelligence ; *Parrots ; Research ; }, abstract = {The authors evaluate evidence for general intelligence (g) in nonhumans but lean heavily toward mammalian data. They mention, but do not discuss in detail, evidence for g in nonmammalian species, for which substantive material exists. I refer to a number of avian studies, particularly in corvids and parrots, which would add breadth to the material presented in the target article.}, }
@article {pmid29338711, year = {2018}, author = {Shurulinkov, P and Spasov, L and Stoyanov, G and Chakarov, N}, title = {Blood parasite infections in a wild population of ravens (Corvus corax) in Bulgaria.}, journal = {Malaria journal}, volume = {17}, number = {1}, pages = {33}, pmid = {29338711}, issn = {1475-2875}, support = {PIEF-GA-2013-625883//H2020 Marie Sk&#x142;odowska-Curie Actions/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/parasitology ; Bulgaria/epidemiology ; *Crows ; Cytochromes b/analysis ; Haemosporida/classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; Phylogeny ; Protozoan Infections, Animal/*epidemiology/parasitology ; Protozoan Proteins/analysis ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Blood parasites have been studied intensely in many families of avian hosts, but corvids, a particularly cosmopolitan family, remain underexplored. Haemosporidian parasites of the common raven (Corvus corax) have not been studied, although it is the largest, most adaptable, and widespread corvid. Genetic sequence data from parasites of ravens can enhance the understanding of speciation patterns and specificity of haemosporidian parasites in corvids, and shed light how these hosts cope with parasite pressure.<br><br>METHODS: A baited cage trap was used to catch 86 ravens and a nested PCR protocol was used to amplify a 479&#xa0;bp fragment of the haemosporidian cytochrome b gene from the samples. The obtained sequences were compared with the MalAvi database of all published haemosporidian lineages and a phylogenetic tree including all detected raven parasites was constructed. An examination of blood smears was performed for assessment of infection intensity.<br><br>RESULTS: Twenty blood parasite lineages were recovered from ravens caught in a wild population in Bulgaria. The prevalence of generalist Plasmodium lineages was 49%, and the prevalence of Leucocytozoon lineages was 31%. Out of 13 detected Leucocytozoon lineages six were known from different corvids, while seven others seem to be specific to ravens. A phylogenetic reconstruction suggests that Leucocytozoon lineages of ravens and other corvids are not monophyletic, with some groups appearing closely related to parasites of other host families.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Several different, morphologically cryptic groups of Leucocytozoon parasites appear to infect corvids. Ravens harbour both generalist corvid Leucocytozoon as well as apparently species-specific lineages. The extraordinary breeding ecology and scavenging lifestyle possibly allow ravens to evade vectors and have relatively low blood parasite prevalence compared to other corvids.}, }
@article {pmid31579265, year = {2018}, author = {Hendricks, J}, title = {Quantum for pressure.}, journal = {Nature physics}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {31579265}, issn = {1745-2473}, support = {9999-NIST//Intramural NIST DOC/United States ; }, abstract = {Jay Hendricks tells about ongoing work to change the realization and dissemination of the pascal, which will lead to the elimination of mercury-barometer pressure standards.}, }
@article {pmid30956930, year = {2018}, author = {Rubio, E and Sanllorente, O and Tieleman, BI and Ibáñez-Álamo, JD}, title = {Fecal sacs do not increase nest predation in a ground nester.}, journal = {Journal of ornithology}, volume = {159}, number = {4}, pages = {985-990}, pmid = {30956930}, issn = {2193-7192}, abstract = {Most altricial birds remove their nestlings' feces from the nest, but the evolutionary forces driving this behavior are poorly understood. A possible adaptive explanation for this could be that birds avoid the attraction of nest predators to their nests due to the visual or olfactory cues produced by feces (nest predation hypothesis). This hypothesis has received contrasting support indicating that additional experimental studies are needed, particularly with respect to the visual component of fecal sacs. To test this hypothesis, we conducted an experiment manipulating the presence of fecal sacs on inactive Woodlark (Lullula arborea) nests. This ground nester has highly cryptic nests that are mainly depredated by visually oriented nest predators (i.e., corvids) in our study population, making it an excellent system to test for the nest predation hypothesis. Our results showed that the presence of fecal sacs in the nest does not seem to be an important factor explaining nest predation. Interestingly, the effect of nest concealment, the most important factor explaining nest predation in Woodlark nests, depended on whether the nest was depredated the previous year or not, supporting the importance of using different nesting sites between years. Our findings indicate that this important nest sanitation behavior is not likely motivated by nest predation and highlight the need to explore alternative selective pressures in this context.}, }
@article {pmid30956929, year = {2018}, author = {Baniukiewicz, M and Dick, ZL and Giabbanelli, PJ}, title = {Capturing the fast-food landscape in England using large-scale network analysis.}, journal = {EPJ data science}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {39}, pmid = {30956929}, issn = {2193-1127}, support = {U54 HD070725/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Fast-food outlets play a significant role in the nutrition of British children who get more food from such shops than the school canteen. To reduce young people's access to fast-food meals during the school day, many British cities are implementing zoning policies. For instance, cities can create buffers around schools, and some have used 200 meters buffers while others used 400 meters. But how close is too close? Using the road network is needed to precisely computing the distance between fast-food outlets (for policies limiting the concentration), or fast-food outlets and the closest school (for policies using buffers). This estimates how much of the fast-food landscape could be affected by a policy, and complementary analyses of food utilization can later translate the estimate into changes on childhood nutrition and obesity. Network analyses of retail and urban forms are typically limited to the scale of a city. However, to design national zoning policies, we need to perform this analysis at a national scale. Our study is the first to perform a nation-wide analysis, by linking large datasets (e.g., all roads, fast-food outlets and schools) and performing the analysis over a high performance computing cluster. We found a strong spatial clustering of fast-food outlets (with 80% of outlets being within 120 of another outlet), but much less clustering for schools. Results depend on whether we use the road network on the Euclidean distance (i.e. 'as the crow flies'): for instance, half of the fast-food outlets are found within 240 m of a school using an Euclidean distance, but only one-third at the same distance with the road network. Our findings are consistent across levels of deprivation, which is important to set equitable national policies. In line with previous studies (at the city scale rather than national scale), we also examined the relation between centrality and outlets, as a potential target for policies, but we found no correlation when using closeness or betweenness centrality with either the Spearman or Pearson correlation methods.}, }
@article {pmid31966237, year = {2017}, author = {Tsai, TS and Mao, JJ}, title = {Species Identification of Shed Snake Skins in Taiwan and Adjacent Islands.}, journal = {Zoological studies}, volume = {56}, number = {}, pages = {e38}, pmid = {31966237}, issn = {1810-522X}, abstract = {Tein-Shun Tsai and Jean-Jay Mao (2017) Shed snake skins have many applications for humans and other animals, and can provide much useful information to a field survey. When properly prepared and identified, a shed snake skin can be used as an important voucher; the morphological descriptions of the shed skins may be critical for taxonomic research, as well as studies of snake ecology and conservation. However, few convenient/ expeditious methods or techniques to identify shed snake skins in specific areas have been developed. In this study, we collected and examined a total of 1,260 shed skin samples - including 322 samples from neonates/ juveniles and 938 from subadults/adults - from 53 snake species in Taiwan and adjacent islands, and developed the first guide to identify them. To the naked eye or from scanned images, the sheds of almost all species could be identified if most of the shed was collected. The key features that aided in identification included the patterns on the sheds and scale morphology. Ontogenetic differences and intraspecific variation in the patterns of sheds were evident in some snake species, and the proportion of young snakes with patterned shed skins was larger than that of adults. The retention of markings on the ventral side of the body (especially the ventral head) during sloughing was much lower than that on the dorsal side. We hope that this pioneering work will not only encourage other researchers to develop similar keys for their country, but also promote local schools, organizations, and citizen scientists to conduct snake inventories.}, }
@article {pmid33065955, year = {2017}, author = {Coleman, WP and Sattler, G and Weissenberger, P and Hast, MA and Hanschmann, A}, title = {Safety of IncobotulinumtoxinA in the Treatment of Facial Lines: Results From a Pooled Analysis of Randomized, Prospective, Controlled Clinical Studies.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {43 Suppl 3}, number = {}, pages = {S293-S303}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000001409}, pmid = {33065955}, issn = {1524-4725}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The safety and efficacy of incobotulinumtoxinA in aesthetics has been established in multiple studies. Although individual studies have been reported, a combined assessment of incobotulinumtoxinA safety across studies is not available.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To assess the frequency of adverse events (AEs) across prospective incobotulinumtoxinA studies in aesthetics.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Safety data were assessed from 9 placebo-controlled or active-controlled single-dose studies on glabellar frown lines (GFL), crow's feet (CF), and upper facial lines (UFL). Analyses by treatment cycle included 4 repeat-dose studies on GFL and UFL.<br><br>RESULTS: One thousand three hundred seventy-seven subjects received incobotulinumtoxinA (GFL, n = 1,189; CF, n = 83; UFL, n = 105) in single-dose studies (placebo-controlled studies: incobotulinumtoxinA, n = 866; placebo, n = 395). Over 1,000 subjects received incobotulinumtoxinA in repeat-dose studies (GFL, n = 880; UFL, n = 290). In placebo-controlled single-dose studies, incidences of treatment-related AEs ranged from 5.4% (GFL) to 22.9% (UFL). The most frequent treatment-related AE in single-dose studies was headache (GFL, 4.8%; UFL, 11.4%). In repeat-dose studies, incidence of AEs was highest during cycle 1 (GFL, 8.9%; UFL, 17.2%) and decreased across treatment cycles. No serious treatment-related AEs were observed.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Results confirm the favorable safety and tolerability of incobotulinumtoxinA. The frequency of treatment-related AEs was low and may decrease with subsequent treatments.}, }
@article {pmid31014599, year = {2017}, author = {Irie, T and Ikeda, T and Nakamura, T and Ichii, O and Yamada, N and Ito, T and Yamazaki, A and Takai, S and Yagi, K}, title = {First molecular detection of Sarcocystis ovalis in the intestinal mucosa of a Japanese jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) in Hokkaido, Japan.}, journal = {Veterinary parasitology, regional studies and reports}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {54-57}, doi = {10.1016/j.vprsr.2017.08.005}, pmid = {31014599}, issn = {2405-9390}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology ; Crows/*parasitology ; DNA, Protozoan/isolation &amp; purification ; DNA, Ribosomal/isolation &amp; purification ; Intestinal Mucosa/parasitology ; Japan/epidemiology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; *Sarcocystis/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Sarcocystosis/epidemiology/parasitology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {Although cysts of Sarcocystis spp. have been detected in domestic and wild animals throughout Japan, their natural definitive hosts have not been fully elucidated. Additionally, in Hokkaido, several Sarcocystis spp. are highly prevalent among wild sika deer (Cervus nippon yesoensis), one of which is S. ovalis. The life cycle of S. ovalis is maintained in corvid birds. To identify the definitive host for S. ovalis in Hokkaido, we investigated its prevalence among corvid birds (Corvus macrorhynchos and C. corone). A total of 42 crow carcasses were collected during August 2015-July 2016 in southern Hokkaido. Examination for coccidian sporocysts in rectal feces and intestinal mucosa, detection of Sarcocystis DNA (18S rRNA gene) from intestinal mucosa samples, and histological observation of intestinal tissue were conducted. No Sarcocystis sporocysts were detected in fecal and mucosal samples by flotation. DNA from intestinal mucosa was positive in one crow (C. macrorhynchos). Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated the isolate clustered with S. ovalis and was closely related to isolates obtained from sika deer in Hokkaido. Histologically, S. ovalis gamogenesis (gamonts or gametes) and oocyst production were observed in the villi of the crow positive for S. ovalis DNA. However, the crow was negative for other coccidian parasites, such as Eimeria, by fecal examination. Our results suggested that crows harbor S. ovalis in the intestine and may serve as a definitive host of S. ovalis in Hokkaido. To our knowledge, this is the first report on a natural definitive host for Sarcocystis spp. prevalent among sika deer in Japan.}, }
@article {pmid33473868, year = {2017}, author = {Sarker, S and Helbig, K and Raidal, SR}, title = {The first complete mitochondrial genome sequence of an Australian raven (Corvus coronoides).}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part B, Resources}, volume = {2}, number = {2}, pages = {473-474}, pmid = {33473868}, issn = {2380-2359}, abstract = {Here, we report the complete mitochondrial genome of an Australian raven (Corvus coronoides). The mitogenome of C. coronoides was characterised as a circular molecule of 16,925 bp in length encoding a typically conserved structure similar to those of other Corvidae. It consisted of 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two rRNA genes, and 22 tRNA genes, with all protein-coding sequences commencing with methionine. The lengths of 12S ribosomal RNA and 16S ribosomal RNA were 980 bp and 1600 bp, respectively, and were located between tRNA-Phe and tRNA-Leu. The overall base composition of the mitogenome of C. coronoides was slightly higher AT (56.0%) content than GC (44.0%). A phylogenetic tree using available complete mitogenome sequences of the family Corvidae revealed a close evolutionary relationship of C. coronoides with the now extinct Chatham raven (C. moriorum), a large songbird that was native to the Chatham Islands east of New Zealand.}, }
@article {pmid32026102, year = {2017}, author = {Varanda, CA and Fernandes, FDM}, title = {Cognitive flexibility training intervention among children with autism: a longitudinal study.}, journal = {Psicologia, reflexao e critica : revista semestral do Departamento de Psicologia da UFRGS}, volume = {30}, number = {1}, pages = {15}, pmid = {32026102}, issn = {0102-7972}, support = {150739/2012-5//National Council of Technological and Scientific Development/ ; }, abstract = {Autism is defined by persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction in multiple contexts as well as restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior. There are also reported difficulties in the dynamic activation and modification of cognitive processes in response to changes in tasks' demands. Such difficulties are believed to be due to poor flexible cognition. This research aimed to assess and intervene in cognitive flexibility in subjects with autism.Ten subjects diagnosed with autism by psychiatrists, aged 5 years to 13 years and 5 months, were assessed in non-verbal intelligence through Raven's Progressive Matrices in pretest. They were also assessed in cognitive flexibility through Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) and in patterns of social interactions, behaviors, and communication through Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R). An intervention program of 14 to 21 sessions was established to enhance cognitive flexibility. In posttest, they were assessed in WCST and ADI-R.All measures of cognitive flexibility improved in posttest except for failure to maintain set. Among the measures improved in posttest, perseverative errors and responses improved in posttest with statistical significance as well as categories completed. Total scores on ADI-R were lower in posttest as well as scores on communication abilities.The qualitative improvement showed by the individuals of this research concerning cognitive flexibility and also patterns of restricted behavior, social interaction, and communication abilities suggests that individuals with autism can benefit from the development of strategies for the enhancement of cognitive flexibility. Nevertheless, more research is suggested with a larger sample among subjects on the autism spectrum.}, }
@article {pmid29693817, year = {2017}, author = {Washio, Y and Frederick, J and Archibald, A and Bertram, N and Crowe, JA}, title = {Community-I nitiated Pilot Program "My Baby's Breath" to Reduce Prenatal Alcohol Use.}, journal = {Delaware medical journal}, volume = {89}, number = {2}, pages = {46-51}, pmid = {29693817}, issn = {0011-7781}, mesh = {Alcohol Drinking/*prevention &amp; control ; Community Health Services ; Female ; Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders/*prevention &amp; control ; *Health Education ; Humans ; Pilot Projects ; *Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Complications/*prevention &amp; control ; United States ; }, abstract = {Prenatal alcohol use puts mothers and their children at risk for complications during pregnancy, birth, and the neonatal periods. This paper describes a currently implemented community-based pilot program to reduce drinking among pregnant mothers. The program has worked in collaboration with case managers from Crow Wing County Social Services. Participants were required to provide daily breath samples with monetary incentives on alcohol-negative sample submissions. The program has treated four pregnant mothers so far, with an average of 94 percent compliance rate and no alcohol-positive breath samples. Future planned adjustments include using a remotely reloadlable debit card to reinforce daily sample submission, switching to completely random monitoring schedules to avoid falsenegative results, and expanding the program service in other counties. The community-based program using mobile technology has promise to increase opportunities to reinforce healthy lifestyle during pregnancy.}, }
@article {pmid32025273, year = {2017}, author = {van Daalen, SF and Caswell, H}, title = {Lifetime reproductive output: individual stochasticity, variance, and sensitivity analysis.}, journal = {Theoretical ecology}, volume = {10}, number = {3}, pages = {355-374}, pmid = {32025273}, issn = {1874-1738}, abstract = {Lifetime reproductive output (LRO) determines per-generation growth rates, establishes criteria for population growth or decline, and is an important component of fitness. Empirical measurements of LRO reveal high variance among individuals. This variance may result from genuine heterogeneity in individual properties, or from individual stochasticity, the outcome of probabilistic demographic events during the life cycle. To evaluate the extent of individual stochasticity requires the calculation of the statistics of LRO from a demographic model. Mean LRO is routinely calculated (as the net reproductive rate), but the calculation of variances has only recently received attention. Here, we present a complete, exact, analytical, closed-form solution for all the moments of LRO, for age- and stage-classified populations. Previous studies have relied on simulation, iterative solutions, or closed-form analytical solutions that capture only part of the sources of variance. We also present the sensitivity and elasticity of all of the statistics of LRO to parameters defining survival, stage transitions, and (st)age-specific fertility. Selection can operate on variance in LRO only if the variance results from genetic heterogeneity. The potential opportunity for selection is quantified by Crow's index I , the ratio of the variance to the square of the mean. But variance due to individual stochasticity is only an apparent opportunity for selection. In a comparison of a range of age-classified models for human populations, we find that proportional increases in mortality have very small effects on the mean and variance of LRO, but large positive effects on I . Proportional increases in fertility increase both the mean and variance of LRO, but reduce I . For a size-classified tree population, the elasticity of both mean and variance of LRO to stage-specific mortality are negative; the elasticities to stage-specific fertility are positive.}, }
@article {pmid30070456, year = {2017}, author = {Chen, Z and Liu, T and Shao, J and Zhu, T and Liu, H and Wang, H}, title = {[The orbicularis muscle partial resection combined with orbital fat flap or orbicularis muscle flap graft for treatment of crow's feet in women].}, journal = {Zhonghua zheng xing wai ke za zhi = Zhonghua zhengxing waike zazhi = Chinese journal of plastic surgery}, volume = {33}, number = {1}, pages = {4-7}, pmid = {30070456}, issn = {1009-4598}, mesh = {Adipose Tissue/*transplantation ; Adult ; Blepharoplasty/methods ; Eyelids/surgery ; Facial Muscles/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Myocutaneous Flap/*transplantation ; Oculomotor Muscles/surgery ; Orbit/surgery ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; *Skin Aging/pathology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of the outer orbicularis muscle partial resection combined with orbital fat flap or orbicularis muscle flap transfer to block orbicularis muscle for improvement of crow's feet.<br><br>METHODS: From October 2010 to May 2015,82 cases of females (aged from 27 to 54 years old) with crow's feet were treated with new method(n =41) and traditional method(control, n =41).The new method included partial resection and orbital fat flap or orbicularis muscle flap transfer to block orbicularis muscle. The traditional method was performed to lift the skin and orbicularis oculi muscle to improve the crow's feet. The operation time, the postoperative recovery time, eyes closing function and hematoma, nerve injury and other complications were recorded.1,3,6 and 12 months after operation, the effect was assessed by one cosmetic surgeon who is unkown the groups. Completely correction was assed as 5 points and no improvement or even worse as 0 point.12 months after operation, the patients satisfactory rate was recorded.<br><br>RESULTS: 75 cases were followed up, including 39 in new method group and 36 in control group. The operative time and postoperative recovery time were (50 &#xb1; 5) min,(58 &#xb1; 4) min and (5 &#xb1;1) d,(6.0&#xb1;1.5) d in the new method group and control group respectively (P&#xff1c;0.05).The two groups both had good eyes closing function, no eyes closing fatigue or difficult or other serious complications such as hematoma, nerve injury. Visual analog scale were 3.2 &#xb1; 0.6,3.5 &#xb1; 0.5,4.2 &#xb1; 0.8,4.3 &#xb1;0.8 and 3.1 &#xb1;0.6,3.4 &#xb1;0.9,3.0 &#xb1;0.6,2.8 &#xb1;0.5 in the new method group and control group at 1,3,6,12 months after surgery respectively. Obviously, the effect in new method group was much better than that in control group after 6 and 12 months with statistical significance (P &#xff1c; 0.05).12 months after surgery, the satisfaction surveys showed satisfactory in 33 cases; fairly satisfactory in 4 cases; dissatisfactory in 2 cases in new method group, and satisfactory in 10 cases; fairly satisfactory in 15 cases; dissatisfactory in 11 cases in the control group, showing significant difference between the 2 groups (P &#xff1c;0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The outer orbital orbicularis muscle partial resection combined with orbital fat flap or orbicularis muscle flap is reasonable and reliable to correct crow's feet with short recovery and less complication. It is a worthy new method for recommendation.}, }
@article {pmid29714876, year = {2017}, author = {Liapi, S and Polychronopoulou, S}, title = {Cognitive and socio-emotional development and manifestation of learning disabilities of 8- to 10-year-old children born after intracytoplasmatic sperm injection compared to naturally conceived children.}, journal = {Clinical and experimental obstetrics &amp; gynecology}, volume = {44}, number = {1}, pages = {104-109}, pmid = {29714876}, issn = {0390-6663}, mesh = {Child ; *Child Development ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Learning Disabilities ; Male ; *Sperm Injections, Intracytoplasmic ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the cognitive and socio-emotional development, as well as the mani- festation of learning disabilities of eight- to ten-year-old children born after intracytoplasmatic sperm injection (ICSI).<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Developmental outcomes of 40 children born after ICSI were compared with those of 40 children born after spontaneous conception (SC). Outcome measures included the Raven's Progressive Matrices Test, Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), and Athina Test of Learning Difficulties.<br><br>RESULTS: Regarding cognitive development, ICSI children tend to obtain a similar intelligence score with SC children on Raven's Test. No significant differences were noted on CBCL's syndrome and abilities' profiles, and on Athina Test.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: ICSI and SC children show a comparable cognitive and socio-emotional development and have the same chances of manifesting learning disabilities. None of the demographic factors taken into consideration (age, sex of the child, and educational level of the parents) nor the mode of conception seem to affect their well-being.}, }
@article {pmid30643560, year = {2016}, author = {Papadimitrakopoulou, VA}, title = {AURA3 trial: does Tagrisso (osimertinib) have the potential to become the new standard of care for second-line treatment of patients with EGFR T790M mutation-positive locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC.}, journal = {Lung cancer management}, volume = {5}, number = {4}, pages = {159-162}, pmid = {30643560}, issn = {1758-1974}, abstract = {Vassiliki A Papadimitrakopoulou speaks to Roshaine Wijayatunga, Managing Commissioning Editor: Dr Papadimitrakopoulou is the Jay and Lori Eisenberg Distinguished Professor of Medicine and Chief of the section of Thoracic Medical Oncology in the Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology at the University of Texas/MD Anderson Cancer Center. Her areas of expertise include design and development of novel therapeutic clinical trials for lung and head and neck neoplasms, personalized genomics-driven lung cancer therapy and translational research and cancer chemoprevention. Her extensive experience in design, development and implementation of translational research in the context of multidisciplinary research teams has led to research funding from National Cancer Institute (NCI), American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and Department of Defense (DOD) both independently and as a member of a research team in the Head and Neck SPORE program. Currently, she serves as the principal investigator and leads numerous clinical and translational research projects with a focus on the development of biomarker-based targeted therapy to overcome therapeutic resistance in advanced disease and immunotherapy. Most notably, she has led the multidisciplinary clinical and translational research infrastructure dedicated to the treatment of metastatic refractory NSCLC as part of the BATTLE-2 program, designed and developed the first-in-the-world comprehensive genomics-driven umbrella approach in Squamous Lung Cancer, the Lung Master protocol, jointly sponsored by NCI-Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP) and Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH)/industry, aiming at bringing personalized medicine to patients with this disease. She is the Co-PI of an R01 award focusing on the role of KRAS mutations and targeting in lung cancer. She is the lead author or coauthor of over 150 published articles, book chapters and reviews, and numerous abstracts involving cancer therapeutics, prevention and translational research and she has received several awards including the ASCO Young Investigator and Career Development Award. On this R01 application, she will serve as Co-PI, working closely with Roy Herbst (Yale Cancer Center) and Don Gibbons (UT/MD Anderson Cancer Center), building on the recently completed BATTLE-2 program, and capitalizing on both laboratory findings supporting MEK targeted therapy and clinical effectiveness of immunotherapy and their combinations in addressing KRAS mutated lung cancer.}, }
@article {pmid32680341, year = {2016}, author = {Azami, S and Moghadas, A and Sohrabi-Esmrood, F and Nazifi, M and Mirmohamad, M and Hemmati, F and Ahmadi, A and Hamzeh-Poor, P and Khari, S and Lakes, K}, title = {A pilot randomized controlled trial comparing computer-assisted cognitive rehabilitation, stimulant medication, and an active control in the treatment of ADHD.}, journal = {Child and adolescent mental health}, volume = {21}, number = {4}, pages = {217-224}, doi = {10.1111/camh.12157}, pmid = {32680341}, issn = {1475-357X}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This research aimed to compare computer-assisted cognitive rehabilitation (CACR) psychostimulants (MED) and placebo CACR (PCACR) in the treatment of ADHD using a multiarm parallel design.<br><br>METHODS: Thirty-four boys with ADHD, aged 7-12, were randomly assigned to either CACR (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;12), MED (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;11), or PCACR (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;11). However, the study was not blinded and medication doses might be suboptimal given the lack of titration. Continuous performance test, Tower-of-London, forward/backward digit span, span board, Raven's progressive matrices, and SNAP-IV were completed at baseline, posttest, and follow-up.<br><br>RESULTS: Computer-assisted cognitive rehabilitation outperformed both MED and PCACR on backward digit span at posttest and PCACR at follow-up. CACR outperformed PCACR and MED on forward digit span at posttest and PCACR at follow-up. CACR outperformed MED on span board at posttest. CACR outperformed PCACR and MED on Raven's matrices at posttest. CACR and PCACR scored lower than MED on ADHD-PHI at posttest. CACR scored lower than MED on ADHD-C at posttest.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Immediately after interventions, CACR improved certain simple executive functions (EFs) as much as active stimulant medication. On complex EFs, CACR was superior to active stimulant medication and PCACR. CACR reduced behavioral symptoms of ADHD more than active stimulant medication. However, at 3-month follow-up, maintenance of the CACR gains was weak.}, }
@article {pmid29491924, year = {2016}, author = {Skórka, P and Sierpowska, K and Haidt, A and Myczko, &#x141; and Ekner-Grzyb, A and Rosin, ZM and Kwieciński, Z and Suchodolska, J and Takacs, V and Jankowiak, &#x141; and Wasielewski, O and Graclik, A and Krawczyk, AJ and Kasprzak, A and Szwajkowski, P and Wylegała, P and Malecha, AW and Mizera, T and Tryjanowski, P}, title = {Habitat preferences of two sparrow species are modified by abundances of other birds in an urban environment.}, journal = {Current zoology}, volume = {62}, number = {4}, pages = {357-368}, pmid = {29491924}, issn = {1674-5507}, abstract = {Every species has certain habitat requirements, which may be altered by interactions with other co-occurring species. These interactions are mostly ignored in predictive models trying to identify key habitat variables correlated with species population abundance/occurrence. We investigated how the structure of the urban landscape, food resources, potential competitors, predators, and interaction between these factors influence the abundance of house sparrow Passer domesticus and the tree sparrow P. montanus in sixty 25 ha plots distributed randomly across residential areas of the city of Poznań (Poland). The abundance of the house sparrow was positively correlated with the abundance of pigeons but negatively correlated with human-related food resources. There were significant interaction terms between abundances of other urban species and habitat variables in statistical models. For example, the abundance of house sparrow was negatively correlated with the abundance of corvids and tree sparrows but only when food resources were low. The abundance of tree sparrows positively correlated with density of streets and the distance from the city center. The abundance of this species positively correlated with the abundance of corvids when food resources were low but negatively correlated at low covers of green area. Our study indicates that associations between food resources, habitat covers, and the relative abundance of two sparrow species are altered by the abundance of other urban species. Competition, niche separation and social facilitation may be responsible for these interactive effects. Thus, biotic interactions should be included not only as an additive effect but also as an interaction term between abundance and habitat variables in statistical models predicting species abundance and occurrence.}, }
@article {pmid29491922, year = {2016}, author = {Loretto, MC and Schuster, R and Bugnyar, T}, title = {GPS tracking of non-breeding ravens reveals the importance of anthropogenic food sources during their dispersal in the Eastern Alps.}, journal = {Current zoology}, volume = {62}, number = {4}, pages = {337-344}, pmid = {29491922}, issn = {1674-5507}, abstract = {In many songbirds, the space use of breeders is well studied but poorly understood for non-breeders. In common ravens, some studies of non-breeders indicate high vagrancy with large individual differences in home range size, whereas others show that up to 40% of marked non-breeders can be regularly observed at the same anthropogenic food source over months to years. The aim of this study was to provide new insights on ravens' behavior during dispersal in the Eastern Alps. We deployed Global Positioning System (GPS) loggers on 10 individuals to gather accurate spatial and temporal information on their movements to quantify: 1) the dimension of the birds' space use (home range size with seasonal effects and daily/long-term travel distances), 2) how long they stayed in a dispersal stage of wandering as opposed to settling temporarily, and 3) their destination of movements. We recorded movements of up to 40 km per hour, more than 160 km within 1 day and more than 11,000 km within 20 months, indicating high vagrancy. Switching frequently between temporarily settling and travelling large distances in short time intervals leads to extensive home ranges, which also explains and combines the different findings in the literature. The destinations are rich anthropogenic food sources, where the birds spent on average 75% of their time. We discuss how ravens may find these "feeding hot spots" and which factors may influence their decision to stay/leave a site. The strong dependence on anthropogenic resources found in this population may have implications for site management and conservation issues.}, }
@article {pmid33473517, year = {2016}, author = {Eo, SH and An, J}, title = {Mitochondrial genome sequence of black paradise flycatcher (Aves: Monarchidae) and its phylogenetic position.}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part B, Resources}, volume = {1}, number = {1}, pages = {454-455}, pmid = {33473517}, issn = {2380-2359}, abstract = {We generated the complete mitochondrial genome of the black paradise flycatcher (Terpsiphone atrocaudata; Family: Monarchidae), an ecologically important insectivorous bird in Asian forest ecosystems. The mitogenome was 16,984 bp in length and consisted of 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNAs, two rRNAs and a control region. Gene composition and arrangement in the mitogenome were similar to those of related families Corvidae and Laniidae available in GenBank. However, tRNA[Ala] was located between COXII and ATP8 genes in the mitogenome of T. atrocaudata while tRNA[Lys] , was in the same location in the mitogenomes of Corvidae and Laniidae. The phylogenetic tree based on the mitogenomes of T. atrocaudata and the related families supported that Monarchidae was the sister taxa to the clade of Laniidae and Corvidae. The mitogenome of T. atrocaudata will be a valuable genetic resource for phylogenetic analyses and implication of conservation and management of the species.}, }
@article {pmid29737706, year = {2016}, author = {Wang, QY and Zhao, YZ and Luo, X and Hua, JQ and Li, Z and Xu, JL}, title = {[Potential nest predators of Syrmaticus reevesii based on camera traps and artificial nests.].}, journal = {Ying yong sheng tai xue bao = The journal of applied ecology}, volume = {27}, number = {6}, pages = {1968-1974}, doi = {10.13287/j.1001-9332.201606.020}, pmid = {29737706}, issn = {1001-9332}, mesh = {Animals ; *Breeding ; Ecosystem ; *Galliformes ; Nesting Behavior ; *Predatory Behavior ; }, abstract = {In order to understand the background of the field breeding ecology of Reeves's pheasant (Syrmaticus reevesii) inside and outside of protected area, an investigation on nest predation rate, potential nest predators and the habitat factors affecting nest predation was conducted at Dongzhai National Nature Reserve, Henan Province and Pingjingguan Village, Hubei Province, which were protected and non-protected area, respectively. The fieldwork was conducted from March to July 2014, and artificial nests (taking eggs as bait), camera traps and habitat plots were used at these two sites to catch information about nest predation. Experiments were designed in two rounds, including the early-breeding stage (March to April) and mid-breeding stage (May to June). We placed 149 artificial ground nests with 62 randomly picked nest sites, each monitored by one camera. The working days of all cameras were 1315 days, and we finally obtained 7776 pictures and 6950 video clips. The results showed that the rate of nest predation outside the protected areas (Pingjingguan) was higher than that in nature reserve (Dongzhai), with highly significant diffe-rences both in early-breeding and mid-breeding stages. In two stages, more nest predator species (11 and 6 species in two stages, respectively) occurred in Pingjingguan than in Dongzhai (7 and 5 species, respectively). In Pingjingguan, Glires and Corvidae were top predators, while in Dongzhai Raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) was firstly ranked. Slope degree and arbor canopy cover were positively related with the nest predation rate in Pingjingguan, while fallen leaves coverage had significant influence on nest predation in Dongzhai. We also found wild Reeves's pheasant paid visits to 13 artificial nests for 18 times by viewing the pictures and video clips.}, }
@article {pmid34290900, year = {2016}, author = {Li, Y and Miyasaka, M and Haghighipanah, M and Cheng, L and Hannaford, B}, title = {Dynamic Modeling of Cable Driven Elongated Surgical Instruments for Sensorless Grip Force Estimation.}, journal = {IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation : ICRA : [proceedings]. IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation}, volume = {2016}, number = {}, pages = {4128-4134}, pmid = {34290900}, issn = {2152-4092}, support = {R21 EB016122/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Haptic feedback plays a key role in surgeries, but it is still a missing component in robotic Minimally Invasive Surgeries. This paper proposes a dynamic model-based sensorless grip force estimation method to address the haptic perception problem for commonly used elongated cable-driven surgical instruments. Cable and cable-pulley properties are studied for dynamic modeling; grip forces, along with driven motor and gripper jaw positions and velocities are jointly estimated with Unscented Kalman Filter and only motor encoder readings and motor output torques are assumed to be known. A bounding filter is used to compensate for model inaccuracy and to improve method robustness. The proposed method was validated on a 10mm gripper which is driven by a Raven-II surgical robot. The gripper was equipped with 1-dimensional force sensors which served as ground truth data. The experimental results showed that the proposed method provides sufficiently good grip force estimation, while only motor encoder and the motor torques are used as observations.}, }
@article {pmid33473475, year = {2016}, author = {Yang, MX and Wang, QX and Xiao, H and Yang, C}, title = {Sequencing complete mitochondrial genome of Lanius sphenocercus sphenocercus (Passeriformes: Laniidae) using Illunima HiSeq 2500.}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part B, Resources}, volume = {1}, number = {1}, pages = {306-307}, pmid = {33473475}, issn = {2380-2359}, abstract = {Using an Illumina platform, we sequenced the complete mitochondrial genome of Lanius sphenocercus sphenocercus to an average coverage of 1669.5×. We performed a de novo assembly using SOAPdenovo2 and obtained the total mitogenome with 16,833 bp in length. Most PCGs begin with the typical ATG start codon with the exception of COI gene, which use GTG as the initiation codon. Stop codons AGG, TAG, TAA, and AGA are present in the PCGs; exceptions are COII, COIII and ND4, which possess incomplete termination codons (T). But, the function of COII with incomplete stop codon T should be further investigated. The phylogeny revealed that genetic distance of Laniidae and Corvidae was closer than other species. Compared to other three shrike species, L. s. sphenocercus occupy a separate status in the genus Lanius.}, }
@article {pmid33473393, year = {2016}, author = {Peng, LF and Yang, DC and Lu, CH}, title = {Complete mitochondrial genome of oriental magpie-robin Copsychus saularis (Aves: Muscicapidae).}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part B, Resources}, volume = {1}, number = {1}, pages = {21-22}, pmid = {33473393}, issn = {2380-2359}, abstract = {The total length of mitogenome of Copsychus saularis is 16 827 bp and contains 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, two rRNA genes and one D-loop. The phylogenetic tree of C. saularis and 13 other species belonging to Passeriformes was built.}, }
@article {pmid30151142, year = {2015}, author = {Tringali, A and Bowman, R and Husby, A}, title = {Selection and inheritance of sexually dimorphic juvenile plumage coloration.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {5}, number = {22}, pages = {5413-5422}, pmid = {30151142}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Sexually dimorphic plumage coloration is widespread in birds and is generally thought to be a result of sexual selection for more ornamented males. Although many studies find an association between coloration and fitness related traits, few of these simultaneously examine selection and inheritance. Theory predicts that sex-linked genetic variation can facilitate the evolution of dimorphism, and some empirical work supports this, but we still know very little about the extent of sex linkage of sexually dimorphic traits. We used a longitudinal study on juvenile Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) to estimate strength of selection and autosomal and Z-linked heritability of mean brightness, UV chroma, and hue. Although plumage coloration signals dominance in juveniles, there was no indication that plumage coloration was related to whether or not an individual bred or its lifetime reproductive success. While mean brightness and UV chroma are moderately heritable, hue is not. There was no evidence for sex-linked inheritance of any trait with most of the variation explained by maternal effects. The genetic correlation between the sexes was high and not significantly different from unity. These results indicate that evolution of sexual dimorphism in this species is constrained by low sex-linked heritability and high intersexual genetic correlation.}, }
@article {pmid30699582, year = {2015}, author = {Ye, W and Zeng, Y and Kerns, J}, title = {First Report of Trichodorus obtusus on Turfgrass in North Carolina, U.S.A.}, journal = {Plant disease}, volume = {99}, number = {2}, pages = {291}, doi = {10.1094/PDIS-08-14-0830-PDN}, pmid = {30699582}, issn = {0191-2917}, abstract = {In May 2014, 11 sandy soil samples were collected at a depth of about 5 to 15 cm from a golf course community in Wilmington, NC, composed of Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) from the fairway, St. Augustinegrass (Stenotaphrum secundatum) from the lawn, and Zoysiagrass (Zoysia japonica) from the tee, all of which showed spotted yellowing and necrosis. Plant-parasitic nematodes were extracted from soil samples by a combination of elutriation and sugar centrifugal-flotation methods at the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Nematode Assay Lab, Raleigh, NC. The results revealed the presence of several plant-parasitic nematodes, with a stubby-root nematode (Trichodoridae) present. Population densities of stubby-root nematodes were 10 to 90 (average 50) nematodes per 500 cm[3] of soil. This species was clearly different from the parthenogenetic stubby-root nematode Nanidorus minor (Colbran, 1956) Siddiqi, 1974 commonly found in North Carolina because of the presence of males and larger body size. Morphological and molecular analyses of this nematode identified the species as Trichodorus obtusus Cobb, 1913. Morphological features of T. obtusus specimens were examined in glycerol permanent mounts. Males (n = 5) had a ventrally curved spicule, three ventromedian precloacal papillae (one ventromedian cervical papilla anterior to the excretory pore, one pair of lateral cervical pores at the level of the ventromedian cervical papilla), and a tail with a non-thickened terminal cuticle. Males were 860 to 1,120 (average 1,018) μm long, body width 38 to 48 (42) μm, onchiostyle 53 to 60 (56) μm, and spicule 54 to 62 (59) μm. Females (n = 5) had a pore-like vulva, a barrel-shaped vagina, and one or two postadvulvar lateral body pores on each side. Females were 990 to 1,330 (1,148) μm long, body width 43 to 56 (48) μm, onchiostyle 50 to 64 (58) μm, and V 49.0 to 57.5% (53.0%). The morphology agreed with the description of T. obtusus (2). DNA was prepared by squashing a single nematode (n = 3) on a microscope slide and collecting in 50 μl of AE buffer (10 mM Tris-Cl, 0.5 mM EDTA; pH 9.0). The 18S rDNA region was amplified with the forward primers 18S-G18S4 (5' GCTTGTCTCAAAGATTAAGCC 3'), SSUF07 (AAAGATTAAGCCATGCATG), and 18S965 (GGCGATCAGATACCGCCCTAGTT) and reverse primers 18S-18P (TGATCCWKCYGCAGGTTCAC), SSUR26 (CATTCTTGGCAAATGCTTTCG), and 18S1573R (TACAAAGGGCAGGGACGTAAT). The 28S D2/D3 region was amplified with the forward primer 28S391a (AGCGGAGGAAAAGAAACTAA) and reverse primer 28S501 (TCGGAAGGAACCAGCTACTA) (4). The resulting 18S (1,547-bp) and 28S D2/D3 (925-bp) sequences were deposited in GenBank under the accession numbers KM276665 and KM276666. The 18S sequence data was 100% homologous with two populations of T. obtusus (JX279930, 898 bp, and JX289834, 897 bp) from South Carolina and one (AY146460, 634 bp) from an unknown source, each with a 1-bp difference in a Blastn search. The 28S D2/D3 sequence data was less than 90% homologous with many Trichodorus species, but no T. obtusus sequence data was available. T. obtusus is known to occur only in the United States and to damage turfgrasses. It is reported in the states of Virginia, Florida, South Carolina, Texas, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, New York, and South Dakota. This nematode has been reported as a pathogen of bermudagrass in Florida (1) and South Carolina (3), but pathogenicity to St. Augustinegrass and Zoysiagrass is unknown. To our knowledge, this is the first report of T. obtusus on turfgrasses in North Carolina. References: (1) W. T. Crow and J. K. Welch. Nematropica 34:31, 2004. (2) W. Decraemer. The Family Trichodoridae: Stubby Root and Virus Vector Nematodes. Kluwer Academic Publishers, Dordrecht, The Netherlands, 1995. (3) J. B. Shaver et al. Plant Dis. 97:852, 2013. (4) G. R. Stirling et al. Nematology 15:401, 2013.}, }
@article {pmid30703978, year = {2014}, author = {Barnes, I and Walla, JA and Bergdahl, A and Wingfield, MJ}, title = {Four New Host and Three New State Records of Dothistroma Needle Blight Caused by Dothistroma pini in the United States.}, journal = {Plant disease}, volume = {98}, number = {10}, pages = {1443}, doi = {10.1094/PDIS-06-14-0606-PDN}, pmid = {30703978}, issn = {0191-2917}, abstract = {During 2010 and 2011, Dothistroma needle blight (DNB), also known as red band needle blight, was observed for the first time in Cass and Pembina counties in North Dakota (ND). In Pembina Co., DNB was observed in two sites in the Jay V. Wessels Wildlife Management Area (JWWMA). In September 2009, yellow spots on green needles were observed on some trees along the western edge of one planting. By June 2010, DNB was found on third- and fourth-year needles in both JWWMA plantings. Symptoms had developed into dark brown bands or spots on necrotic needles that contained erumpent black acervuli. In June 2011, similar DNB symptoms were observed on Pinus nigra, P. flexilis, P. ponderosa, P. cembra, and P. albicaulis in the Dale E. Herman Research Arboretum, Cass Co., ND. DNB was collected in July 2011 in Brookings Co., South Dakota (SD), from a seed source provenance planting of P. ponderosa. To identify the species causing the infections, symptomatic needles were collected in 2010 from both sites in JWWMA and then again from all four locations in 2011 on all pine species infected. Needles of P. nigra from a private residence near Fairland in Shelby County, Indiana (IN), were also included in the sample set. The rDNA-ITS was PCR-amplified either directly from conidia obtained from acervuli on the needles or from cultures obtained from isolations. Amplicons were sequenced and a BLAST search was performed in GenBank. The sequences of samples obtained from P. nigra, P. flexilis, P. cembra, and P. albicaulis in ND, P. ponderosa in SD, and P. nigra from IN showed 100% sequence homology with Dothistroma pini (Accession No. AY808302). These isolates were identical to all previously assayed isolates of D. pini from Nebraska, Minnesota, and Michigan in the United States. The P. ponderosa isolates from all three sites in ND differed from the other isolates and contained a 1-bp point mutation from a C to a T at site 72 (sequence deposited in GenBank, accession KJ933441). Mating type was determined using species-specific mating type primers for D. pini (3). All 26 samples from ND and SD were of the MAT-1 idiomorph, while the sample from IN contained the MAT-2 idiomorph. All cultures are maintained at FABI, University of Pretoria, South Africa. The two species that cause DNB, D. septosporum (G. Dorog.) M. Morelet and D. pini Hulbary, are morphologically indistinguishable and molecular characterization remains essential for correct species identification (1). Host and geographical distribution range determinations of Dothistroma spp. made without molecular methods are not valid. To date, species confirmed using DNA sequences in the United States include D. septosporum in the Pacific Northwest states of Oregon and Idaho on P. ponderosa, in Montana on P. contorta v. latifolia, and D. pini in the North Central states of Nebraska, Minnesota, and Michigan on P. nigra (1). This study documents the presence of D. pini in three additional states, including a first report of DNB in ND and SD. It also includes new records of D. pini infecting P. flexilis, P. cembra, P. albicaulis, and P. ponderosa. Results of this study have expanded the documented host range of D. pini in the United States from one (P. nigra) to five species. Globally, D. pini is now known to infect a total of 10 pine hosts (2,4,5). References: (1) I. Barnes et al. Stud. Mycol. 50:551, 2004. (2) I. Barnes et al. For. Pathol. 41:361, 2011. (3) M. Groenewald et al. Phytopathology 97:825, 2007. (4) D. Piou et al. Plant Dis. 98:841, 2014. (5) B. Piskur et al. For. Pathol. 43:518, 2013.}, }
@article {pmid30708902, year = {2014}, author = {McGroary, PC and Cisar, JL and Giblin-Davis, RM and Ruiz, OF and Nangle, EJ}, title = {First Report of Plant-Parasitic Nematodes on Seashore Paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum) in Barbados.}, journal = {Plant disease}, volume = {98}, number = {7}, pages = {1018}, doi = {10.1094/PDIS-08-13-0832-PDN}, pmid = {30708902}, issn = {0191-2917}, abstract = {Seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum Swartz) is a warm-season perennial turfgrass commonly used for golf courses that are grown in saline environments or using saline water for irrigation. However, seashore paspalum is also grown in non-saline conditions due to its low fertilizer and water requirements (2). In Barbados, on a newly constructed golf course, seashore paspalum 'Sea Isle Supreme' sprigs were imported from Georgia (United States) and were planted over 2006 and 2007 on greens, tees, fairways, and rough. Golf greens were constructed following the United States Golf Association Green Section (Far Hills, NJ) putting green guidelines. Tees and fairways were constructed using native soil. Two years after the grow-in, the putting greens began to exhibit irregular chlorotic patches, followed by gradual thinning and decline of turfgrass stand density in those areas. Additionally, turfgrass roots sampled from those symptomatic patches appeared to be abbreviated compared to non-symptomatic areas of the greens. A survey was conducted in May 2013 to determine if plant-parasitic nematodes were present coinciding with the observed symptoms, which were similar to those described in a previous report (3). Consequently, two samples were collected from each green with a total of four greens sampled. Each sample consisted of 20 soil cores (15 cm depth × 1.2 cm in diameter) from either areas of the greens showing symptoms or from non-symptomatic areas. Nematodes were extracted from 100 cm[3] soil samples using a modified centrifugal-sugar flotation technique (4). No plant parasitic nematodes were present in any of the samples from the non-symptomatic areas. Three genera of plant parasitic nematodes were found in all the samples from the symptomatic areas: Helicotylenchus. Mesocriconema, and Pratylenchus. Nematode populations of these genera averaged 30, 60, and 200 nematodes per 100 cm[3], respectively. Populations of the genera Helicotylenchus and Mesocriconema were below the action threshold levels for seashore paspalum used by the University of Florida Nematode Assay Laboratory (1). Currently, no threshold exists for Pratylenchus for seashore paspalum. Conversely, the genera Helicotylenchus. Mesocriconema, and Pratylenchus were found associated with the irregular chlorotic patches but not with the non-symptomatic areas. To our knowledge, this is the first report of plant parasitic nematodes associated with seashore paspalum maintained as putting greens in Barbados. References: (1) W. T. Crow. Nematode management for golf courses in Florida. EDIS. Accessed 31 July 2013 from: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in124 , 2001. (2) R. R. Duncan and R. N. Carrow. Seashore Paspalum: The Environmental Turfgrass. John Wiley &amp; Sons, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey, 2000. (3) A. C. Hixson and W. T. Crow. Plant Dis. 88:680, 2004. (4) W. R. Jenkins. Plant Dis. Rep. 48:692, 1964.}, }
@article {pmid30722626, year = {2013}, author = {Shaver, JB and Agudelo, P and Martin, SB}, title = {First Report of Stubby Root Caused by Trichodorus obtusus on Zoysiagrass and Bermudagrass in South Carolina.}, journal = {Plant disease}, volume = {97}, number = {6}, pages = {852}, doi = {10.1094/PDIS-10-12-0932-PDN}, pmid = {30722626}, issn = {0191-2917}, abstract = {In September 2011, diagnostic samples were taken from 'Tifway' Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon × C. transvaalensis) tees and from 'Emerald' Zoysia (Zoysia japonica) roughs of a golf course in Charleston, SC. Additional samples were taken from a sod farm located near Charleston, SC from a field of 'Empire' Zoysia. The soil was sandy loam and the samples were taken at a depth of 10 to 15 cm from symptomatic turf. Symptoms on bermudagrass and zoysiagrass included stubby roots and lightly to severely chlorotic or dead patches of irregular sizes and shapes. Nematodes were extracted by sugar centrifugal-flotation and counted. The predominant nematode species recovered was Trichodorus obtusus Cobb, 1913: syn. T. proximus Allen, 1957, n.syn. (3). Nematode densities (per 100 cm[3] of soil) were 30 to 170 (average 94, n = 5) at the sod farm, and 30 to 230 (average 107, n = 7) at the golf course. This nematode has been reported as a pathogen of bermudagrass in Florida, where it is more damaging than Paratrichodorus minor, the other stubby root nematode commonly associated with turfgrass (1). In Florida, 120 T. obtusus individuals per 100 cm[3] is considered high risk (2). We have encountered several additional samples from across South Carolina with comparable densities since our first diagnosis. Infested soil (94 individuals per 100 cm[3]) collected from the sod farm was put into columns and planted with 'Empire' sod and maintained in the greenhouse. After 140 days, the population density increased to an average of 230 individuals per 100 cm3. Plants were prone to wilting and new root growth showed symptoms similar to those observed in the field. Morphologic and morphometric identification of T. obtusus was made by examining male and female specimens in temporary water mounts. Males had ventrally curved spicules with three ventral precloacal papillae, with the posterior papilla just anterior to the head of the retracted spicules, one ventromedian cervical papilla anterior to the excretory pore, and tail with non-thickened terminal cuticle. Females had a deep, barrel-shaped, pore-like vulva, and one or two postadvulvar lateral body pores on each side. Males and females had distinctly offset esophagus. Females (n = 10) were 1,100 to 1,440 (1,250) μm long, body width 40 to 53 (45) μm, onchiostyle 63 to 75 (67) μm, and V 583 to 770 (673) μm. Males (n = 10) were 1,076 to 1,353 (1,222) μm long, body width 33 to 45 (39) μm, onchiostyle 62 to 69 (65) μm, and spicule 55 to 63 (59) μm. From individuals representing the two locations, an 898-bp section of the 18S rDNA region was sequenced using primers 37F (5'-GCCGCGAAAAGCTCATTACAAC-3') and 932R (5'-TATCTGATCGCTGTCGAACC-3') (4). A BLASTn search revealed no similar sequences to those of our two populations (Accessions JX289834 and JX279930). As such, it appears that these are the first sequences of this portion of the 18S rDNA for T. obtusus, although a different, non-overlapping portion of 18S was found in GenBank (AY146460) under the synonym T. proximus. To our knowledge, this is the first report of T. obtusus on zoysiagrass and the first report of the species on bermudagrass in South Carolina. References: (1) W. T. Crow and J. K. Welch. Nematropica 34:31, 2004. (2) W. T. Crow et al. Florida Nematode Management Guide. SP-54. University of Florida, Gainesville, 2003. (3) W. Decraemer. The Family Trichodoridae: Stubby Root and Virus Vector Nematodes. Kluwer Academic Publishers, Dordrecht, The Netherlands. Pp. 27-30, 1995. (4) I. Duarte et al. Nematology 12:171, 2010.}, }
@article {pmid29537564, year = {2011}, author = {}, title = {Obituary: Paul Jay Tannenbaum, DDS.}, journal = {Journal of periodontology}, volume = {82}, number = {10}, pages = {1389}, doi = {10.1902/jop.2011.1110001}, pmid = {29537564}, issn = {1943-3670}, }
@article {pmid30082948, year = {2011}, author = {Fitzgibbons, R and O'Leary, D}, title = {Sexual Abuse of Minors by Catholic Clergy.}, journal = {The Linacre quarterly}, volume = {78}, number = {3}, pages = {252-273}, doi = {10.1179/002436311803888276}, pmid = {30082948}, issn = {0024-3639}, abstract = {The reports The Nature and Scope of Sexual Abuse of Minors by Catholic Priests and Deacons in the United States 1950-2002 and the Supplementary Data Analysis, and The Causes and Context study (2011) by the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, commissioned by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, concluded that the childhood and adolescent sexual abuse committed by clergy was totally unrelated to homosexuality. The latest John Jay attempt to explain the deliberate homosexual predation and abuse of adolescent males, the primary victims in the crisis, as a crime of opportunity ignores the severe psychological conflicts and grooming behaviors in priests who offended against minors. This article discusses why the studies used to support the view of the abuse of minors as being not related to homosexuality are not applicable to the problem of clergy childhood sexual abuse. The data in the John Jay reports strongly suggests that homosexual abuse of adolescent males is at the heart of the crisis. The psychological causes of homosexual attraction in men to adolescent males are presented. A number of well-designed studies have found that men with SSA are more likely to have psychiatric and substance abuse disorders and STDs than heterosexual males, and are more likely to have a positive attitude to sexual relations between adult and adolescent males. Competent mental-health professionals should offer a second opinion about the causes of the crisis in regard to the psychological conflicts in the priests. Also, priests and seminarians with deep-seated homosexual tendencies have a serious responsibility to pursue appropriate treatment and spiritual direction in order to protect adolescent males, in particular, and the Church from further damage.}, }
@article {pmid32847222, year = {2011}, author = {Flouri, E and Hickey, J and Mavroveli, S and Hurry, J}, title = {Adversity, Emotional Arousal, and Problem Behaviour in Adolescence: The Role of Non-Verbal Cognitive Ability as a Resilience Promoting Factor.}, journal = {Child and adolescent mental health}, volume = {16}, number = {1}, pages = {22-29}, doi = {10.1111/j.1475-3588.2010.00558.x}, pmid = {32847222}, issn = {1475-357X}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: To test whether emotional arousal mediates the moderator effect of non-verbal cognitive ability on the association between cumulative contextual risk (number of proximal and distal adverse life events) and adolescent problem behaviour.<br><br>METHOD: &#x2002; Data from a UK community sample of secondary school aged children were used. The study sample comprised 207 children with a mean age of 13.44&#x2003;years (SD&#x2003;=&#x2003;1.45). Problem behaviour was assessed with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, non-verbal cognitive ability was assessed with Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices Plus, and emotional arousal was measured with the Acting Out Emotions Scale of the Emotion Awareness Questionnaire. Adjustment was made for gender, age, family structure, and socio-economic disadvantage.<br><br>RESULTS: &#x2002; Non-verbal cognitive ability moderated the effect of cumulative contextual risk on overall problem behaviour, and emotional arousal mediated this moderator effect. That is, risk predicted emotional arousal, which predicted overall problem behaviour, but emotional arousal was more strongly related to overall problem behaviour among children of low non-verbal cognitive ability than among children of high non-verbal cognitive ability.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: &#x2002; These findings are important for both theory development and intervention design. They advance theory because they suggest that non-verbal cognitive ability buffers the effect of risk on overall problem behaviour by strengthening control over emotions. They have implications for intervention design because they suggest that interventions carried out to enhance children's emotion regulation skills in the presence of multiple adversity might be more effective if they target children who score low on non-verbal cognitive ability.}, }
@article {pmid32214652, year = {2011}, author = {LaDeau, SL and Calder, CA and Doran, PJ and Marra, PP}, title = {West Nile virus impacts in American crow populations are associated with human land use and climate.}, journal = {Ecological research}, volume = {26}, number = {5}, pages = {909-916}, pmid = {32214652}, issn = {0912-3814}, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) was first detected in the western hemisphere during the summer of 1999, reawakening US public awareness of the potential severity of vector-borne pathogens. Since its New World introduction, WNV has caused disease in human, avian, and mammalian communities across the continent. American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) are a highly susceptible WNV host and when modeled appropriately, changes in crow abundances can serve as a proxy for the spatio-temporal presence of WNV. We use the dramatic declines in abundance of this avian host to examine spatio-temporal heterogeneity in WNV intensity across the northeastern US, where WNV was first detected. Using data from the Breeding Bird Survey, we identify significant declines in crow abundance after WNV emergence that are associated with lower forest cover, more urban land use, and warmer winter temperatures. Importantly, we document continued declines as WNV was present in an area over consecutive years. Our findings support the urban-pathogen link that human WNV incidence studies have shown. For each 1% increase in urban land cover we expect an additional 5% decline in the log crow abundance beyond the decline attributed to WNV in undeveloped areas. We also demonstrate a significant relationship between above-average winter temperatures and WNV-related declines in crow abundance. The mechanisms behind these patterns remain uncertain and hypotheses requiring further research are suggested. In particular, a strong positive relationship between urban land cover and winter temperatures may confound mechanistic understanding, especially when a temperature-sensitive vector is involved.}, }
@article {pmid33863037, year = {2000}, author = {Proctor, MCF}, title = {Mosses and alternative adaptation to life on land.}, journal = {The New phytologist}, volume = {148}, number = {1}, pages = {1-3}, doi = {10.1111/j.1469-8137.2000.00751.x}, pmid = {33863037}, issn = {1469-8137}, abstract = {It is easy to dismiss bryophytes as 'lower' plants, mere primitive precursors long since left behind in the evolutionary race, and of only rather esoteric and incidental biological interest. But this is to let oneself be led astray by a simplistic image of a tidy evolutionary tree - an image that served Darwin well a century and a half ago (Desmond &amp; Moore, 1992), but which we should now see as an intricately branched evolutionary bush with innumerable shoots reaching out from all depths to the growing apices that represent the present day. The earliest land plants may indeed have been at a bryophyte level of organization, but modern bryophytes, no less than vascular plants, are the product of some 450 million years' evolution since that time (Edwards et al., 1998). Raven (1977, 1984) has emphasized the importance of the evolution of supracellular transport systems in the origin of vascular land plants. Bryophytes, on the other hand, evolved desiccation tolerance and represent an alternative strategy of adaptation to life on land, photosynthesizing and growing when water is available, and suspending metabolism when it is not. They are limited by their mode of life, but also liberated : they are prominent on hard substrates such as rock and bark, which are impenetrable to roots and untenable to vascular plants. Bryophytes (in species numbers the second biggest group of green land plants) may be seen as the mobile phones, notebook computers and diverse other rechargeable battery-powered devices of the plant world - not direct competitors for their mains-based equivalents, but a lively and sophisticated complement to them.}, }
@article {pmid29578779, year = {1999}, author = {Benkman, CW}, title = {The Selection Mosaic and Diversifying Coevolution between Crossbills and Lodgepole Pine.}, journal = {The American naturalist}, volume = {153}, number = {S5}, pages = {S75-S91}, doi = {10.1086/303213}, pmid = {29578779}, issn = {1537-5323}, abstract = {Asymmetrical competition determines which of two seed predators drives the evolution of lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta ssp. latifolia) cones. Red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) are effective preemptive competitors in lodgepole pine forests so that red crossbills (Loxia curvirostra) are uncommon and selection from Tamiasciurus drives cone evolution. When Tamiasciurus are absent, crossbills increase in abundance and coevolve in an evolutionary arms race with pine. Similarly, Tamiasciurus alters the evolutionary trajectories of large-seeded pines, many of which rely on birds (Corvidae) for their seed dispersal. Populations therefore exhibit a selection mosaic with coevolutionary hot spots. In the coevolutionary hot spots, divergent selection on crossbills potentially leads to reproductive isolation and speciation. This results in a subsequent reduction in the geographic mosaic but diversifies the adaptive landscape on which crossbills have radiated. Thus, divergent selection is a double-edged sword. Divergent selection is critical in creating a selection mosaic but erodes the selection mosaic when it promotes reproductive isolation and speciation.}, }
@article {pmid29681073, year = {1996}, author = {}, title = {Reviews.}, journal = {The New phytologist}, volume = {133}, number = {2}, pages = {375-380}, doi = {10.1111/j.1469-8137.1996.tb01904.x}, pmid = {29681073}, issn = {1469-8137}, abstract = {Books reviewed in this article: Wind and Trees. Ed. by M. P. Coutts and J. Grace Seasonally Dry Tropical Forests. Ed. by S. H. Bullock, H. A. Mooney and E. Medina Mushrooms: Poisons and Panaceas. By Denis R. Benjamin The Significance and Regulation of Soil Biodiversity. Ed. by H. P. Collins, G. P. Robertson and M. J. Klug Mineral Nutrition of Higher Plants. By Horst Marschner Photoinhibition of Photosynthesis: From Molecular Mechanisms to the Field, Ed. by N. R. Baker and J. R. Bowyer Polyphenols' 94: 17th International Conference on Polyphenols, Palma de Mallorca (Spain). Ed. by R. Brouillard, M. Jay and A. Scalbert.}, }
@article {pmid29357137, year = {1987}, author = {Webb, SL}, title = {Beech Range Extension and Vegetation History: Pollen Stratigraphy of Two Wisconsin Lakes.}, journal = {Ecology}, volume = {68}, number = {6}, pages = {1993-2005}, doi = {10.2307/1939890}, pmid = {29357137}, issn = {0012-9658}, abstract = {The pollen stratigraphy of two small lakes in eastern Wisconsin (Radtke Lake, Washington county, and Gass Lake, Manitowoc County) records the Holocene (past 10 000 yr) spread of beech (Fagus grandifolia: Fagaceae). Radiocarbon dates were obtained for the oldest stratigraphic levels at which beech pollen appeared consistently in amounts > 0.5% of terrestrial pollen. A spatially continuous pattern of beech expansion from the north was ruled out, because beech trees grew in Wisconsin by 6000 BP, 2000 yr before adjacent populations were established to the north. Alternative geographic patterns of speed (from the south or east) were spatially discontinuous, requiring seed dispersal distances of perhaps 25-130 km. That beechnuts could be dispersed across such distances suggests (1) the involvement of Blue Jays, Passenger Pigeons, or other vertebrates, and (2) a capacity for reaching climatically controlled range limits, given sufficient time despite such discontinuities in habitat. A lag 1000-2000 yr between the establishment of source populations in Michigan and Indiana and the appearance of beech in Wisconsin suggests that low-probability dispersal events were involved and that dispersal constraints limited the range of beech during this time, although climatic and edaphic explanations for the lag cannot be ruled out. Pollen data from the two sites reveal other features of vegetation history in eastern Wisconsin: an open Picea-Fraxinus woodland prior to 11 000 BP; sequence of Picea, Abies, Betula, and then Pinus forests between 11 000 and 7500 BP; the establishment of a coniferous/deciduous forest ecotone ("tension zone") ° 7000 BP in this region; and the presence of Quercus-dominanted deciduous forests from 7000 BP until 110 BP (time of Euro-American settlement), a period punctuated by a gradual decrease in Ulmus populations (° 4500 and 5700 BP at the two sites) and by an increase in mesophytic tree abundance at the expense of Quercus after 3500 BP.}, }
@article {pmid29829088, year = {1896}, author = {}, title = {The Young Ravens of Physic.}, journal = {The Hospital}, volume = {20}, number = {516}, pages = {317-318}, pmid = {29829088}, issn = {0267-6478}, }
@article {pmid30331498, year = {1817}, author = {Comrie, P}, title = {Reports on the Ardent Fever of the West Indies, as Occurring on Board His Majesty's Ships Raven and Niobe, in the Year 1815.}, journal = {Edinburgh medical and surgical journal}, volume = {13}, number = {50}, pages = {165-181}, pmid = {30331498}, issn = {0963-4932}, }
@article {pmid29337074, year = {2018}, author = {Padget, O and Bond, SL and Kavelaars, MM and van Loon, E and Bolton, M and Fayet, AL and Syposz, M and Roberts, S and Guilford, T}, title = {In Situ Clock Shift Reveals that the Sun Compass Contributes to Orientation in a Pelagic Seabird.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {28}, number = {2}, pages = {275-279.e2}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2017.11.062}, pmid = {29337074}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; *Circadian Clocks ; *Orientation, Spatial ; *Solar System ; *Spatial Navigation ; Taxis Response ; Wales ; }, abstract = {Compass orientation is central to the control of animal movement from the scale of local food-caching movements around a familiar area in parids [1] and corvids [2, 3] to the first autumn vector navigation of songbirds embarking on long-distance migration [4-6]. In the study of diurnal birds, where the homing pigeon, Columba livia, has been the main model, a time-compensated sun compass [7] is central to the two-step map-and-compass process of navigation from unfamiliar places, as well as guiding movement via a representation of familiar area landmarks [8-12]. However, its use by an actively navigating wild bird is yet to be shown. By phase shifting an animal's endogenous clock, known as clock-shifting [13-15], sun-compass use can be demonstrated when the animal incorrectly consults the sun's azimuthal position while homing after experimental displacement [15-17]. By applying clock-shift techniques at the nest of a wild bird during natural incubation, we show here that an oceanic navigator-the Manx shearwater, Puffinus puffinus-incorporates information from a time-compensated sun compass during homeward guidance to the breeding colony after displacement. Consistently with homing pigeons navigating within their familiar area [8, 9, 11, 18], we find that the effect of clock shift, while statistically robust, is partial in nature, possibly indicating the incorporation of guidance from landmarks into movement decisions.}, }
@article {pmid29330183, year = {2018}, author = {Sen, K and Lu, J and Mukherjee, P and Berglund, T and Varughese, E and Mukhopadhyay, AK}, title = {Campylobacter jejuni Colonization in the Crow Gut Involves Many Deletions within the Cytolethal Distending Toxin Gene Cluster.}, journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology}, volume = {84}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {29330183}, issn = {1098-5336}, support = {EPA999999//Intramural EPA/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; *Base Sequence ; Bird Diseases/*microbiology ; Campylobacter Infections/microbiology/*veterinary ; Campylobacter jejuni/genetics/*pathogenicity/*physiology ; *Crows ; Gastrointestinal Tract/microbiology ; Genes, Bacterial ; India ; Multigene Family ; Mutation ; *Sequence Deletion ; Virulence ; Washington ; }, abstract = {Campylobacter spp. are major causes of gastroenteritis worldwide. The virulence potential of Campylobacter shed in crow feces obtained from a roost area in Bothell, Washington, was studied and compared with that from isolates from other parts of Washington and from a different crow species 7,000 miles away in Kolkata, India. Campylobacter organisms were isolated from 61% and 69% of the fecal samples obtained from Washington and Kolkata, respectively, and were confirmed to be C. jejuni The cytolethal distending toxin (CDT) gene cluster from these isolates revealed a truncated sequence of approximately 1,350 bp. Sequencing of the gene cluster revealed two types of mutations: a 668-bp deletion across cdtA and cdtB and a 51-bp deletion within cdtB Some strains had additional 20-bp deletions in cdtB In either case, a functional toxin is not expected; a functional toxin is produced by the expression of three tandem genes, cdtA, cdtB, and cdtC Reverse transcriptase PCR with total RNA extracted from the isolates showed no expression of cdtB A toxin assay performed with these isolates on HeLa cells failed to show cytotoxic effects on the cells. However, the isolates were able to colonize the chicken ceca for a period of at least 4 weeks, similar to that of a clinical isolate. Other virulence gene markers, flagellin A and CadF, were present in 100% of the isolates. Our study suggests that crows carry the bacterium C. jejuni but with a dysfunctional toxin protein that is expected to drastically reduce its potential to cause diarrhea.IMPORTANCE Campylobacters are a major cause of gastroenteritis in humans. Since outbreaks have most often been correlated with poultry or unpasteurized dairy products, contact with farm animals, or contaminated water, historically, the majority of the studies have been with campylobacter isolates from poultry, domestic animals, and human patients. However, the bacterium has a broad host range that includes birds. These reservoirs need to be investigated, because the identification of the source and a determination of the transmission routes for a pathogen are important for the development of evidence-based disease control programs. In this study, two species of the human-commensal crow, from two different geographical regions separated by 7,000 miles of land and water, have been examined for their ability to cause disease by shedding campylobacters. Our results show that the crow may not play a significant role in campylobacteriosis, because the campylobacter organisms they shed produce a nonfunctional toxin.}, }
@article {pmid29320499, year = {2018}, author = {Morrison, R and Reiss, D}, title = {Precocious development of self-awareness in dolphins.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {e0189813}, pmid = {29320499}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Awareness ; Bottle-Nosed Dolphin/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Mirror-self recognition (MSR) is a behavioral indicator of self-awareness in young children and only a few other species, including the great apes, dolphins, elephants and magpies. The emergence of self-awareness in children typically occurs during the second year and has been correlated with sensorimotor development and growing social and self-awareness. Comparative studies of MSR in chimpanzees report that the onset of this ability occurs between 2 years 4 months and 3 years 9 months of age. Studies of wild and captive bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) have reported precocious sensorimotor and social awareness during the first weeks of life, but no comparative MSR research has been conducted with this species. We exposed two young bottlenose dolphins to an underwater mirror and analyzed video recordings of their behavioral responses over a 3-year period. Here we report that both dolphins exhibited MSR, indicated by self-directed behavior at the mirror, at ages earlier than generally reported for children and at ages much earlier than reported for chimpanzees. The early onset of MSR in young dolphins occurs in parallel with their advanced sensorimotor development, complex and reciprocal social interactions, and growing social awareness. Both dolphins passed subsequent mark tests at ages comparable with children. Thus, our findings indicate that dolphins exhibit self-awareness at a mirror at a younger age than previously reported for children or other species tested.}, }
@article {pmid29316266, year = {2019}, author = {Subias, L and Griffin, AS and Guez, D}, title = {Inference by exclusion in the red-tailed black cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus banksii).}, journal = {Integrative zoology}, volume = {14}, number = {2}, pages = {193-203}, doi = {10.1111/1749-4877.12299}, pmid = {29316266}, issn = {1749-4877}, mesh = {Animals ; *Choice Behavior ; *Cockatoos ; Discrimination, Psychological ; Female ; Male ; *Psychomotor Performance ; }, abstract = {Inference by exclusion is the ability to select a given option by excluding the others. When designed appropriately, tests of this ability can reveal choices that cannot be explained by associative processes. Over the past decade, exclusion reasoning has been explored in several non-human taxonomic groups, including birds, mainly in Corvids and Parrots. To increase our understanding of the taxonomic distribution of exclusion reasoning and, therefore, its evolution, we investigated exclusion performances in red-tailed black cockatoos (Calyptorhynchus banksii), an Australian relative of the Goffin cockatoo (Cacatua goffini), using a food-finding task. Cockatoos were required to find a food item hidden in 1 of the 2 experimenter's hands. Following training sessions in which they reliably selected the closed baited hand they had just been shown open, each individual was tested on 4 different conditions. Critical to demonstrating exclusion reasoning was the condition in which they were shown the empty hand and then offered a choice of both closed hands. The performance of all birds was above chance on all experimental conditions but not on an olfactory and/or cuing control condition. The results suggest that the birds might be able to infer by exclusion, although an explanation based on rule learning cannot be excluded. This first experiment in red-tailed black cockatoo highlights the potential of this species as a model to study avian cognition and paves the pathway for future investigations.}, }
@article {pmid29312032, year = {2017}, author = {Schoppek, W and Fischer, A}, title = {Common Process Demands of Two Complex Dynamic Control Tasks: Transfer Is Mediated by Comprehensive Strategies.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {2145}, pmid = {29312032}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Although individual differences in complex problem solving (CPS) are well-established, relatively little is known about the process demands that are common to different dynamic control (CDC) tasks. A prominent example is the VOTAT strategy that describes the separate variation of input variables ("Vary One Thing At a Time") for analyzing the causal structure of a system. To investigate such comprehensive knowledge elements and strategies, we devised the real-time driven CDC environment Dynamis2 and compared it with the widely used CPS test MicroDYN in a transfer experiment. One hundred sixty five subjects participated in the experiment, which completely combined the role of MicroDYN and Dynamis2 as source or target problem. Figural reasoning was assessed using a variant of the Raven Test. We found the expected substantial correlations among figural reasoning and performance in both CDC tasks. Moreover, MicroDYN and Dynamis2 share 15.4% unique variance controlling for figural reasoning. We found positive transfer from MicroDYN to Dynamis2, but no transfer in the opposite direction. Contrary to our expectation, transfer was not mediated by VOTAT but by an approach that is characterized by setting all input variables to zero after an intervention and waiting a certain time. This strategy (called PULSE strategy) enables the problem solver to observe the eigendynamics of the system. We conclude that for the study of complex problem solving it is important to employ a range of different CDC tasks in order to identify components of CPS. We propose that besides VOTAT and PULSE other comprehensive knowledge elements and strategies, which contribute to successful CPS, should be investigated. The positive transfer from MicroDYN to the more complex and dynamic Dynamis2 suggests an application of MicroDYN as training device.}, }
@article {pmid29307740, year = {2018}, author = {Kang, Y and Shen, X and Yuan, R and Xiang, B and Fang, Z and Murphy, RW and Liao, M and Shen, Y and Ren, T}, title = {Pathogenicity and transmissibility of three avian influenza A (H5N6) viruses isolated from wild birds.}, journal = {The Journal of infection}, volume = {76}, number = {3}, pages = {286-294}, doi = {10.1016/j.jinf.2017.12.012}, pmid = {29307740}, issn = {1532-2742}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Chickens/*virology ; Ducks/*virology ; Female ; Influenza A virus/isolation &amp; purification/*pathogenicity ; Influenza in Birds/transmission/*virology ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred BALB C ; Poultry Diseases/transmission/*virology ; Virulence ; }, abstract = {Since 2013, highly pathogenic H5N6 avian influenza viruses (AIVs) have emerged in poultry and caused sporadic human infections in Asia. The recent discovery of three new avian H5N6 viruses - A/oriental magpie-robin/Guangdong/SW8/2014 (H5N6), A/common moorhen/Guangdong/GZ174/2014 (H5N6) and A/Pallas's sandgrouse/Guangdong/ZH283/2015 (H5N6) - isolated from apparently healthy wild birds in Southern China in 2014-2015 raises great concern for the spread of these highly pathogenic AIVs (HPAIVs) and their potential threat to human and animal health. In our study, we conducted animal experiments and tested their pathogenicity in ducks, chickens and mice. Ducks can carry and shed the H5N6 HPAIVs, but show no ill effects. On the other hand, these H5N6 HPAIVs can efficiently infect, transmit and cause death in chickens. Due to the overlap of habitats, domestic ducks play an important role in circulating AIVs between poultry and wild birds. Our results raise the possibility that wild birds disseminate these H5N6 HPAIVs to poultry along their flyways and thus pose a great threat to the poultry industry. These viruses are also highly pathogenic to mice, suggesting they pose a potential threat to mammals and, thus, public health. One virus isolated in 2015 replicates much more efficiently and is more lethal in these animals than the two other viruses isolated in 2014. It seems that the H5N6 viruses tend to be more lethal as time passes. Therefore, it is necessary to vigilantly monitor H5N6 HPAIVs in wild birds and poultry.}, }
@article {pmid29304032, year = {2018}, author = {Eggers, MJ and Doyle, JT and Lefthand, MJ and Young, SL and Moore-Nall, AL and Kindness, L and Medicine, RO and Ford, TE and Dietrich, E and Parker, AE and Hoover, JH and Camper, AK}, title = {Community Engaged Cumulative Risk Assessment of Exposure to Inorganic Well Water Contaminants, Crow Reservation, Montana.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {29304032}, issn = {1660-4601}, support = {P50 ES026102/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; P20 GM104417/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; P20 MD002317/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; P20 RR016455/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; K12 GM088021/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; P20 GM103474/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Arsenic/analysis ; Drinking Water/*analysis ; *Environmental Monitoring/methods ; Humans ; Inorganic Chemicals/*analysis ; Montana ; Nitrates/analysis ; *Public Health ; Risk Assessment ; Rural Population ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Uranium/analysis ; Water Pollutants, Chemical/*analysis ; Water Supply ; *Water Wells ; }, abstract = {An estimated 11 million people in the US have home wells with unsafe levels of hazardous metals and nitrate. The national scope of the health risk from consuming this water has not been assessed as home wells are largely unregulated and data on well water treatment and consumption are lacking. Here, we assessed health risks from consumption of contaminated well water on the Crow Reservation by conducting a community-engaged, cumulative risk assessment. Well water testing, surveys and interviews were used to collect data on contaminant concentrations, water treatment methods, well water consumption, and well and septic system protection and maintenance practices. Additive Hazard Index calculations show that the water in more than 39% of wells is unsafe due to uranium, manganese, nitrate, zinc and/or arsenic. Most families' financial resources are limited, and 95% of participants do not employ water treatment technologies. Despite widespread high total dissolved solids, poor taste and odor, 80% of families consume their well water. Lack of environmental health literacy about well water safety, pre-existing health conditions and limited environmental enforcement also contribute to vulnerability. Ensuring access to safe drinking water and providing accompanying education are urgent public health priorities for Crow and other rural US families with low environmental health literacy and limited financial resources.}, }
@article {pmid29299036, year = {2017}, author = {Szipl, G and Ringler, E and Spreafico, M and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Calls during agonistic interactions vary with arousal and raise audience attention in ravens.}, journal = {Frontiers in zoology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {57}, pmid = {29299036}, issn = {1742-9994}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acoustic properties of vocalizations can vary with the internal state of the caller, and may serve as reliable indicators for a caller's emotional state, for example to prevent conflicts. Thus, individuals may associate distinct characteristics in acoustic signals of conspecifics with specific social contexts, and adjust their behaviour accordingly to prevent escalation of conflicts. Common ravens (Corvus corax) crowd-forage with individuals of different age classes, sex, and rank, assemble at feeding sites, and engage in agonistic interactions of varying intensity. Attacked individuals frequently utter defensive calls in order to appease the aggressor. Here, we investigated if acoustic properties of defensive calls change with varying levels of aggression, and if bystanders respond to these changes.<br><br>RESULTS: Individuals were more likely to utter defensive calls when the attack involved contact aggression, and when the attacker was higher in rank than the victim. Defensive calls produced during intense conflicts were longer and uttered at higher rates, and showed higher fundamental frequency- and amplitude-related measures than calls uttered during low-intensity aggression, indicating arousal-based changes in defensive calls. Playback experiments showed that ravens were more likely to react in response to defensive calls with higher fundamental frequency by orientating towards the speakers as compared to original calls and calls manipulated in duration.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Arousal-based changes are encoded in acoustic parameters of defensive calls in attacked ravens, and bystanders in the audience pay attention to the degree of arousal in attacked conspecifics. Our findings imply that common ravens can regulate conflicts with conspecifics by means of vocalizations, and are able to gather social knowledge from conspecific calls.}, }
@article {pmid29292361, year = {2017}, author = {Nieder, A}, title = {Evolution of cognitive and neural solutions enabling numerosity judgements: lessons from primates and corvids.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {373}, number = {1740}, pages = {}, pmid = {29292361}, issn = {1471-2970}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; *Crows/physiology ; Judgment ; Macaca mulatta/*physiology/*psychology ; Neurons/physiology ; Parietal Lobe/physiology ; Telencephalon/physiology ; }, abstract = {Brains that are capable of representing numerosity, the number of items in a set, have arisen repeatedly and independently in different animal taxa. This review compares the cognitive and physiological mechanisms found in a nonhuman primate, the rhesus macaque, and a corvid songbird, the carrion crow, in order to elucidate the evolutionary adaptations underlying numerical competence. Monkeys and corvids are known for their advanced cognitive competence, despite them both having independently and distinctly evolved endbrains that resulted from a long history of parallel evolution. In both species, numerosity is represented as an analogue magnitude by an approximate number system that obeys the Weber-Fechner Law. In addition, the activity of numerosity-selective neurons in the fronto-parietal association cortex of monkeys and the telencephalic associative area nidopallium caudolaterale of crows mirrors the animals' performance. In both species' brains, neuronal activity is tuned to a preferred numerosity, encodes the numerical value in an approximate fashion, and is best represented on a logarithmic scale. Collectively, the data show an impressive correspondence of the cognitive and neuronal mechanisms for numerosity representations across monkeys and crows. This suggests that remotely related vertebrates with distinctly developed endbrains adopted similar physiological solutions to common computational problems in numerosity processing.This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'The origins of numerical abilities'.}, }
@article {pmid29292354, year = {2017}, author = {Hannagan, T and Nieder, A and Viswanathan, P and Dehaene, S}, title = {A random-matrix theory of the number sense.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {373}, number = {1740}, pages = {}, pmid = {29292354}, issn = {1471-2970}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Animals ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; *Discrimination, Psychological ; Haplorhini/*physiology/psychology ; Humans ; Infant ; *Models, Neurological ; Psychophysics ; }, abstract = {Number sense, a spontaneous ability to process approximate numbers, has been documented in human adults, infants and newborns, and many other animals. Species as distant as monkeys and crows exhibit very similar neurons tuned to specific numerosities. How number sense can emerge in the absence of learning or fine tuning is currently unknown. We introduce a random-matrix theory of self-organized neural states where numbers are coded by vectors of activation across multiple units, and where the vector codes for successive integers are obtained through multiplication by a fixed but random matrix. This cortical implementation of the 'von Mises' algorithm explains many otherwise disconnected observations ranging from neural tuning curves in monkeys to looking times in neonates and cortical numerotopy in adults. The theory clarifies the origin of Weber-Fechner's Law and yields a novel and empirically validated prediction of multi-peak number neurons. Random matrices constitute a novel mechanism for the emergence of brain states coding for quantity.This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'The origins of numerical abilities'.}, }
@article {pmid29285478, year = {2017}, author = {Najafi, M and Akouchekian, S and Ghaderi, A and Mahaki, B and Rezaei, M}, title = {Multiple Intelligences Profiles of Children with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder in Comparison with Nonattention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder.}, journal = {Advanced biomedical research}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {148}, pmid = {29285478}, issn = {2277-9175}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common psychological problem during childhood. This study aimed to evaluate multiple intelligences profiles of children with ADHD in comparison with non-ADHD.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional descriptive analytical study was done on 50 children of 6-13 years old in two groups of with and without ADHD. Children with ADHD were referred to Clinics of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, in 2014. Samples were selected based on clinical interview (based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV and parent-teacher strengths and difficulties questionnaire), which was done by psychiatrist and psychologist. Raven intelligence quotient (IQ) test was used, and the findings were compared to the results of multiple intelligences test. Data analysis was done using a multivariate analysis of covariance using SPSS20 software.<br><br>RESULTS: Comparing the profiles of multiple intelligence among two groups, there are more kinds of multiple intelligences in control group than ADHD group, a difference which has been more significant in logical, interpersonal, and intrapersonal intelligence (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference with the other kinds of multiple intelligences in two groups (P > 0.05). The IQ average score in the control group and ADHD group was 102.42 &#xb1; 16.26 and 96.72 &#xb1; 16.06, respectively, that reveals the negative effect of ADHD on IQ average value. There was an insignificance relationship between linguistic and naturalist intelligence (P > 0.05). However, in other kinds of multiple intelligences, direct and significant relationships were observed (P < 0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Since the levels of IQ (Raven test) and MI in control group were more significant than ADHD group, ADHD is likely to be associated with logical-mathematical, interpersonal, and intrapersonal profiles.}, }
@article {pmid29282545, year = {2017}, author = {Janaydeh, M and Ismail, A and Omar, H and Zulkifli, SZ and Bejo, MH and Aziz, NAA}, title = {Relationship between Pb and Cd accumulations in house crow, their habitat, and food content from Klang area, Peninsular Malaysia.}, journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment}, volume = {190}, number = {1}, pages = {47}, pmid = {29282545}, issn = {1573-2959}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Cadmium/analysis/*metabolism ; Crows/*metabolism ; *Ecosystem ; *Environmental Monitoring ; Environmental Pollutants/analysis/*metabolism ; Environmental Pollution/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Feathers/chemistry ; Female ; Food Chain ; Humans ; Lead/analysis/*metabolism ; Malaysia ; Male ; Metals, Heavy/analysis ; Soil ; }, abstract = {Heavy metal pollution has become a global concern due to accumulation in tissue and transferable effects to humans via the food chain. This study focused on monitoring the accumulation of cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) in surface soil and body content: bone, heart, brain, liver, lung, muscle, kidney, feathers, feces, and gizzard contents of house crow Corvus splendens in the Klang region, Malaysia. The results revealed the occurrence of Pb and Cd in all biological samples from house crows, food contents, and surface soil samples. Heart and kidney accrued high amounts of Cd, while high amounts of Pb were found to accumulate in bones and feathers. Major discrepancies were also discovered in the concentrations of metals between juvenile and adults, as well as female and male bird samples. Concentrations of Pb and Cd in house crow internal tissues correlated significantly with that of bird feathers, but none could be established with that of surface soil. In addition, a significant correlation was observed between Pb concentration in the internal tissues to that of the feces, but the same was not the case when compared with the surface soil concentration. Metal accrual in the house crows feathers and feces may be through a long-term transmission via the food chain, which are eliminated from feathers via molting. This may suggest the utility of molted breast feathers of house crow in the bio-monitoring of Cd and Pb contamination, whereas feces of house crow appear only to be suitable for the bio-monitoring of Pb contamination.}, }
@article {pmid29278961, year = {2018}, author = {Elridy, AS and Zaki, RGE and Elshinawy, RF}, title = {Comparison of the Clinical Efficacy of Abobotulinumtoxin A (ABO) and Onabotulinumtoxin A (ONA) in the Treatment of Crow's Feet Wrinkles: A Split-Face Study.}, journal = {Seminars in ophthalmology}, volume = {33}, number = {6}, pages = {739-747}, doi = {10.1080/08820538.2017.1418013}, pmid = {29278961}, issn = {1744-5205}, mesh = {Acetylcholine Release Inhibitors/administration &amp; dosage ; Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Patient Satisfaction ; Single-Blind Method ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: Comparing the clinical efficacy of Abobotulinumtoxin A (ABO) and Onabotulinumtoxin A(ONA) using a dosing ratio of 2.5U:1.0U in the treatment of crow's feet wrinkles.<br><br>SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A single-blinded, randomized, split-face study, included 40 subjects, with moderate-to-severe crow's feet wrinkles. Patients were subjected to a dose equivalence of (ABO):(ONA); 2.5:1.0&#xa0;U. Post treatment evaluation was done on 7, 30, and 120&#xa0;days, comparing: Time, Duration, and Degree of Improvement; Patients Satisfaction.<br><br>RESULTS: No significant difference was found between ABO &amp; ONA regarding duration and time to improvement on static posture. While on dynamic posture, ABO showed significantly less time and longer duration. Both products produced highly significant improvement of the wrinkles' severity on both static and dynamic posture in comparison to the baseline severity. Satisfaction was more with ABO.<br><br>CONCLUSION: ABO is a safe, effective alternative to ONA in treating crow's feet wrinkles.}, }
@article {pmid29274762, year = {2018}, author = {Gallup, GG and Anderson, JR}, title = {The "olfactory mirror" and other recent attempts to demonstrate self-recognition in non-primate species.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {148}, number = {}, pages = {16-19}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2017.12.010}, pmid = {29274762}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; *Ego ; Olfactory Perception/*physiology ; Recognition, Psychology/*physiology ; Smell/physiology ; }, abstract = {The recent attempt by Horowitz (2017) to develop an "olfactory mirror" test of self-recognition in domestic dogs raises some important questions about the kinds of data that are required to provide definitive evidence for self-recognition in dogs and other species. We conclude that the "olfactory mirror" constitutes a compelling analog to the mark test for mirror self-recognition in primates, but despite claims to the contrary neither dogs, elephants, dolphins, magpies, horses, manta rays, squid, nor ants have shown compelling, reproducible evidence for self-recognition in any modality.}, }
@article {pmid29273913, year = {2018}, author = {Layes, S and Lalonde, R and Bouakkaz, Y and Rebai, M}, title = {Effectiveness of working memory training among children with dyscalculia: evidence for transfer effects on mathematical achievement-a pilot study.}, journal = {Cognitive processing}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {375-385}, pmid = {29273913}, issn = {1612-4790}, mesh = {*Academic Success ; Child ; Dyscalculia/psychology/*therapy ; Female ; Humans ; *Learning ; Male ; Mathematics ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Pilot Projects ; *Transfer, Psychology ; }, abstract = {We examined whether the working memory (WM) capacity of developmentally dyscalculic children can be improved by a WM training program and whether outcomes relate to mathematical performance. The experimental design comprised two groups with developmental dyscalculia with grade 4 schooling: an experimental group (n = 14; mean age = 115.29 months) and a control group (n = 14; mean age = 116.07 months). All participants were assessed on measures of WM, mathematic attainment, and nonverbal mental ability (Raven test) before and after training. The WM training program focused on manipulating and maintaining arithmetic information. The results show that both WM and mathematical performances improved significantly after intervention, indicating a strong relationship between these two constructs. The control group improved slightly in Raven's progressive matrices and a reading number task. These findings are discussed in terms of near and far transfer toward trained and untrained skills and stress the positive impact of WM training on learning mathematics in children with dyscalculia.}, }
@article {pmid29258430, year = {2017}, author = {Zhang, Q and Peng, Y and Wang, Y}, title = {Long-duration general anesthesia influences the intelligence of school age children.}, journal = {BMC anesthesiology}, volume = {17}, number = {1}, pages = {170}, pmid = {29258430}, issn = {1471-2253}, support = {NO. 81171169//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; }, mesh = {Anesthesia, General/*adverse effects/*trends ; Child ; Electrocardiography/drug effects/trends ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Intelligence/*drug effects/physiology ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Postoperative Complications/*chemically induced/diagnosis/psychology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: General anesthesia has been linked to impaired brain development in immature animals and young children. In this study the influence of orthopedic surgery under general anesthesia on the intelligence of school age children has been evaluated.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 209 subjects aged 6-12&#xa0;years were recruited and allocated into 4 groups according to the duration of general anesthesia, including a control group (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;30), short (< 1&#xa0;h, n&#x2009;=&#x2009;49), moderate- (1-3&#xa0;h, n&#x2009;=&#x2009;51) and long-duration groups (> 3&#xa0;h, n&#x2009;=&#x2009;79), respectively. The intelligence quotient (IQ) of the subjects was measured by the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) before and after orthopedic surgery under general anesthesia of various durations (vide supra).<br><br>RESULTS: The IQ score decreased significantly in the long-duration group at 1&#xa0;month post-operation compared with the pre-operation score (P&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001), and IQ did not recover completely at 3&#xa0;months postoperatively (P&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05), but had recovered when measured at the 1-year follow-up. Moreover, this study showed that the development of children's intelligence was affected by the exposure time to anesthetics at a younger age (OR&#x2009;=&#x2009;5.26, 95% CI:2.70-8.41, P&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001), having a mother with a low education level (OR&#x2009;=&#x2009;2.71, 95% CI:1.24-6.14, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.014) and premature birth (OR&#x2009;=&#x2009;2.76, 95% CI:1.34-5.46, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.005).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: More than 3&#xa0;h general anesthesia influenced the IQ of school age children for up to 3&#xa0;months after orthopedic surgery. Beside extended exposure time to anesthetics additional factors for post-operative IQ reduction were younger children age, mothers with low educational levels and premature birth.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry with registration number ChiCTR-OOC-17013497 &#xa0;retrospectively registered on 11/23/2017.}, }
@article {pmid29257965, year = {2017}, author = {van Casteren, A}, title = {Tool Use: Crows Craft the Right Tool for the Job.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {27}, number = {24}, pages = {R1314-R1316}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2017.10.022}, pmid = {29257965}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Language ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {New research into tool crafting in New Caledonian crows has uncovered factors that influence tool shape and the foraging advantages that these characteristics confer.}, }
@article {pmid29249025, year = {2018}, author = {Grúz, A and Déri, J and Szemerédy, G and Szabó, K and Kormos, &#xc9; and Bartha, A and Lehel, J and Budai, P}, title = {Monitoring of heavy metal burden in wild birds at eastern/north-eastern part of Hungary.}, journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international}, volume = {25}, number = {7}, pages = {6378-6386}, pmid = {29249025}, issn = {1614-7499}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/*metabolism ; Birds/*metabolism ; Body Burden ; Environmental Monitoring/*methods ; Environmental Pollutants/*analysis ; Feathers/*chemistry ; Hungary ; Metals, Heavy/*analysis ; }, abstract = {Concentrations of different heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Pb, Zn) were examined in the contour feathers of long-eared owl (Asio otus), little owl (Athene noctua), tawny owl (Strix aluco), barn owl (Tyto alba), Eurasian sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus), rook (Corvus frugilegus), hooded crow (Corvus cornix), carrion crow (Corvus corone), common buzzard (Buteo buteo) and barn swallow (Hirundo rustica). The samples were collected from the Hortobágyi Madárpark (Bird Hospital Foundation) in Hungary. The bird species were classified into six groups based on their nourishment. Feathers were analysed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The aim of our study was to determine the concentration of the above-mentioned heavy metals in the six different groups and to compare them by the groups, to find a possible connection between the concentrations and the age of birds and to get some information about the heavy metal burden of the environment. The highest As concentration was measured in little owl (0.65 ± 0.56 mg/kg). The highest Cd, Cr and Pb concentration was found in the feathers of barn swallow (0.13 ± 0.06 mg/kg; 1.69 ± 0.44 mg/kg; 5.36 ± 1.46 mg/kg), while the highest Cu and Hg concentration (65.45 ± 17.66 mg/kg; 2.72 ± 1.08 mg/kg) in sparrowhawk feathers and the highest Zn concentration in owls (157.21 ± 57.3 mg/kg). Statistically significant difference has been determined between the juvenile and adult crows in the case of Cd (p = 0.011). The higher concentration was measured in adults (0.14 ± 0.04 mg/kg) than that in juveniles (0.08 ± 0.02 mg/kg). Based on our results, the examined area is not contaminated by these heavy metals on that level, which can cause any adverse effect or poisoning in birds, so this region is safe to wildlife.}, }
@article {pmid29248926, year = {2017}, author = {Segal, O and Kaplan, D and Patael, S and Kishon-Rabin, L}, title = {Comprehension of "Narrow Focus" by Adolescents in the Autism Spectrum.}, journal = {Folia phoniatrica et logopaedica : official organ of the International Association of Logopedics and Phoniatrics (IALP)}, volume = {69}, number = {1-2}, pages = {67-77}, doi = {10.1159/000477399}, pmid = {29248926}, issn = {1421-9972}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Autism Spectrum Disorder/complications/*psychology ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; *Comprehension ; Education, Special/methods ; Emotions ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Pitch Discrimination ; Speech Disorders/etiology/*psychology ; Theory of Mind ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The study compared the performance of adolescents with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) to that of age-matched peers with typical development (TD) and cognitive language-matched peers with TD on measures of identification and comprehension of "narrow focus."<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: Forty-nine participants, 17 autistic, 17 TD peers matched for age and sex, and 15 TD children matched for expressive vocabulary participated in the study.<br><br>METHOD: The Hebrew Narrow Focus Test (HNFT) was used. The HNFT includes 3 subtests. The first subtest (A) required identification of the stressed word in the sentence based on psychoacoustic abilities alone. The second (B) and third (C) subtests required understanding the meaning of focused stress in different contexts. In subtest B, the meaning of "narrow focus" was to contrast other possibilities related to the lexical-grammatical role of the stressed word in the sentence, whereas in subtest C, the meaning was to indicate a mistake.<br><br>RESULTS: ASD participants showed reduced performance compared to peers across all the subtests of the HNFT, but similar performance compared to TD children in subtests A and B and better performance on subtest C. A significant correlation was found between the Raven test for assessing nonverbal intelligence and subtests B and C of the HNFT in the group of adolescents with ASD.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Comprehension of narrow focus in adolescents with ASD who study in a special educational system is related to their cognitive-linguistic abilities and not to the autistic condition by itself or to its severity.}, }
@article {pmid29244826, year = {2017}, author = {Baldow, C and Salentin, S and Schroeder, M and Roeder, I and Glauche, I}, title = {MAGPIE: Simplifying access and execution of computational models in the life sciences.}, journal = {PLoS computational biology}, volume = {13}, number = {12}, pages = {e1005898}, pmid = {29244826}, issn = {1553-7358}, mesh = {Biological Science Disciplines/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Computational Biology ; Computer Simulation ; Humans ; *Models, Biological ; Models, Statistical ; Programming Languages ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Software ; Systems Biology ; }, abstract = {Over the past decades, quantitative methods linking theory and observation became increasingly important in many areas of life science. Subsequently, a large number of mathematical and computational models has been developed. The BioModels database alone lists more than 140,000 Systems Biology Markup Language (SBML) models. However, while the exchange within specific model classes has been supported by standardisation and database efforts, the generic application and especially the re-use of models is still limited by practical issues such as easy and straight forward model execution. MAGPIE, a Modeling and Analysis Generic Platform with Integrated Evaluation, closes this gap by providing a software platform for both, publishing and executing computational models without restrictions on the programming language, thereby combining a maximum on flexibility for programmers with easy handling for non-technical users. MAGPIE goes beyond classical SBML platforms by including all models, independent of the underlying programming language, ranging from simple script models to complex data integration and computations. We demonstrate the versatility of MAGPIE using four prototypic example cases. We also outline the potential of MAGPIE to improve transparency and reproducibility of computational models in life sciences. A demo server is available at magpie.imb.medizin.tu-dresden.de.}, }
@article {pmid29244069, year = {2018}, author = {Weinkle, SH and Werschler, WP and Teller, CF and Sykes, JM and Shamban, A and Rivkin, A and Narurkar, VA and Kaminer, MS and Dayan, S and Cohen, JL and Gallagher, CJ}, title = {Impact of Comprehensive, Minimally Invasive, Multimodal Aesthetic Treatment on Satisfaction With Facial Appearance: The HARMONY Study.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {38}, number = {5}, pages = {540-556}, doi = {10.1093/asj/sjx179}, pmid = {29244069}, issn = {1527-330X}, mesh = {Adult ; Bimatoprost/*administration &amp; dosage ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Combined Modality Therapy/methods ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Dermal Fillers/*administration &amp; dosage ; Esthetics ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Injections, Subcutaneous ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Patient Satisfaction ; Prospective Studies ; *Rejuvenation ; Self Concept ; Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Individuals seeking aesthetic treatment have concerns regarding multiple facial areas.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: Assess the aesthetic impact and satisfaction achieved with a multimodal approach to aesthetic treatment using a combination of minimally invasive treatments.<br><br>METHODS: Prospective, multicenter, rater-blinded, 4-month HARMONY study evaluated patient satisfaction and aesthetic impact of a combination of fillers (VYC-20L, HYC-24L, and HYC-24L+), onabotulinumtoxinA, and bimatoprost. Males and females aged 35 to 65 years received on-label, staged treatment with fillers, as needed per investigator assessment, on day 1, with touch ups allowed on day 14. Bimatoprost was self-administered once daily for 17 weeks. OnabotulinumtoxinA was injected into glabellar lines, crow's feet lines, or both at month 3. Primary effectiveness measure was mean change from baseline on the FACE-Q 10-item Satisfaction with Facial Appearance Overall Scale.<br><br>RESULTS: Of 100 patients treated, 93 underwent at least the 4-month posttreatment assessment and were assessed for efficacy. The FACE-Q Satisfaction with Facial Appearance Overall Scale total score increased from baseline (41.2) to month 4 (72.9; P < 0.00001; effect size, 2.7). Improvement following multimodal treatment was observed on FACE-Q individual items. Self-perceived age decreased from 0.2 years older than actual age at baseline to 4.6 years younger at month 4. Nearly all patients (99%) rated themselves as improved or much improved on the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale. Investigator assessments also demonstrated improvement. Mild to moderate adverse events occurred in 42 patients.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Minimally invasive, multimodal treatment resulted in improvements in FACE-Q scores and perceived age, indicating a high degree of patient satisfaction and a younger facial appearance.}, }
@article {pmid29241959, year = {2018}, author = {Holcomb, GW}, title = {The Journal of Pediatric Surgery: Its First 50 Years.}, journal = {Journal of pediatric surgery}, volume = {53}, number = {2}, pages = {212-216}, doi = {10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2017.11.007}, pmid = {29241959}, issn = {1531-5037}, mesh = {Child ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Pediatrics/*history ; Periodicals as Topic/*history ; *Surgical Procedures, Operative ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {This article is based on the Journal of Pediatric Surgery Lecture at the 2017 meeting of the British Association of Pediatric Surgeons. This lecture was renamed The Jay L. Grosfeld /Journal of Pediatric Surgery Lecture in honor of Dr. Jay L. Grosfeld who was Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Pediatric Surgery (JPS) from 1994 until his passing in 2016. The first part of this paper recounts the first 50years of JPS starting with the efforts of Drs. Koop and Gans to start a Journal devoted to Pediatric Surgery. The second part of the paper reviews the top ten citations in the first 50years of JPS. Finally, the last part of the article discusses what the future may hold for JPS.}, }
@article {pmid29238838, year = {2017}, author = {Jayakumar, KL and Samimi, SS}, title = {Jay Frank Schamberg, MD-Beyond the Eponymous Disease.}, journal = {JAMA dermatology}, volume = {153}, number = {12}, pages = {1242}, doi = {10.1001/jamadermatol.2017.4273}, pmid = {29238838}, issn = {2168-6084}, mesh = {Dermatology/*history ; *Eponyms ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Pigmentation Disorders/*history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid29238522, year = {2017}, author = {Dohms, KM and Graham, BA and Burg, TM}, title = {Multilocus genetic analyses and spatial modeling reveal complex population structure and history in a widespread resident North American passerine (Perisoreus canadensis).}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {7}, number = {23}, pages = {9869-9889}, pmid = {29238522}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {An increasing body of studies of widely distributed, high latitude species shows a variety of refugial locations and population genetic patterns. We examined the effects of glaciations and dispersal barriers on the population genetic patterns of a widely distributed, high latitude, resident corvid, the gray jay (Perisoreus canadensis), using the highly variable mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region and microsatellite markers combined with species distribution modeling. We sequenced 914 bp of mtDNA control region for 375 individuals from 37 populations and screened seven loci for 402 individuals from 27 populations across the gray jay range. We used species distribution modeling and a range of phylogeographic analyses (haplotype diversity, ΦST, SAMOVA, FST, Bayesian clustering analyses) to examine evolutionary history and population genetic structure. MtDNA and microsatellite markers revealed significant genetic differentiation among populations with high concordance between markers. Paleodistribution models supported at least five potential areas of suitable gray jay habitat during the last glacial maximum and revealed distributions similar to the gray jay's contemporary during the last interglacial. Colonization from and prolonged isolation in multiple refugia is evident. Historical climatic fluctuations, the presence of multiple dispersal barriers, and highly restricted gene flow appear to be responsible for strong genetic diversification and differentiation in gray jays.}, }
@article {pmid29238321, year = {2017}, author = {Kabadayi, C and Jacobs, I and Osvath, M}, title = {The Development of Motor Self-Regulation in Ravens.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {2100}, pmid = {29238321}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Inhibitory control refers to the ability to stop impulses in favor of more appropriate behavior, and it constitutes one of the underlying cognitive functions associated with cognitive flexibility. Much attention has been given to cross-species comparisons of inhibitory control; however, less is known about how and when these abilities develop. Mapping the ontogeny of inhibitory control in different species may therefore reveal foundational elements behind cognitive processes and their evolution. In this study, we tested the development of motor self-regulation in raven chicks (Corvus corax), using two detour tasks that required inhibition of motor impulses to directly reach for a visible reward behind a barrier. One task included a mesh barrier, which partly occluded the reward, and the other task used a completely transparent barrier, the cylinder task. The results suggest that the more visible a reward is, the more difficult it is to inhibit motor impulses toward it, and further, that this inhibitory challenge gradually decreases during development. The mesh barrier is reliably detoured before the animals pass the task with the wholly transparent cylinder. As the majority of the birds begun testing as nestlings, and as we provided them with experiences they normally would not receive in a nest, it is likely that they showed the earliest possible onset of these skills. A control subject, tested at a later age, showed that the mesh detours required no particular training, but that tasks including complete transparency likely require more specific experiences. Adult ravens without explicit training are highly proficient in inhibitory detour tasks, and, together with chimpanzees, they are the best performers of all tested species in the cylinder task. Our results suggest that their skills develop early in life, around their third month. Their developmental pattern of inhibitory skills for detours resembles that of children and rhesus macaques, albeit the pace of development is markedly faster in ravens. Investigating the development of cognition is crucial to understanding its foundations within and across species.}, }
@article {pmid29236583, year = {2018}, author = {Steensma, DP}, title = {The Raven.}, journal = {Journal of clinical oncology : official journal of the American Society of Clinical Oncology}, volume = {36}, number = {5}, pages = {512-513}, doi = {10.1200/JCO.2017.76.3458}, pmid = {29236583}, issn = {1527-7755}, mesh = {Attitude to Death ; Humans ; Melanoma/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Skin Neoplasms/*diagnosis/*psychology ; }, }
@article {pmid29233938, year = {2018}, author = {Bustillo-Avendaño, E and Ibáñez, S and Sanz, O and Sousa Barros, JA and Gude, I and Perianez-Rodriguez, J and Micol, JL and Del Pozo, JC and Moreno-Risueno, MA and Pérez-Pérez, JM}, title = {Regulation of Hormonal Control, Cell Reprogramming, and Patterning during De Novo Root Organogenesis.}, journal = {Plant physiology}, volume = {176}, number = {2}, pages = {1709-1727}, pmid = {29233938}, issn = {1532-2548}, mesh = {Arabidopsis/*genetics/growth &amp; development ; *Cellular Reprogramming ; Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental ; *Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Indoleacetic Acids/*metabolism ; Models, Biological ; Plant Growth Regulators/*metabolism ; Plant Leaves/genetics/growth &amp; development ; Plant Roots/genetics/growth &amp; development ; Regeneration ; *Signal Transduction ; }, abstract = {Body regeneration through formation of new organs is a major question in developmental biology. We investigated de novo root formation using whole leaves of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Our results show that local cytokinin biosynthesis and auxin biosynthesis in the leaf blade followed by auxin long-distance transport to the petiole leads to proliferation of J0121-marked xylem-associated tissues and others through signaling of INDOLE-3-ACETIC ACID INDUCIBLE28 (IAA28), CRANE (IAA18), WOODEN LEG, and ARABIDOPSIS RESPONSE REGULATORS1 (ARR1), ARR10, and ARR12. Vasculature proliferation also involves the cell cycle regulator KIP-RELATED PROTEIN2 and ABERRANT LATERAL ROOT FORMATION4, resulting in a mass of cells with rooting competence that resembles callus formation. Endogenous callus formation precedes specification of postembryonic root founder cells, from which roots are initiated through the activity of SHORT-ROOT, PLETHORA1 (PLT1), and PLT2. Primordia initiation is blocked in shr plt1 plt2 mutant. Stem cell regulators SCHIZORIZA, JACKDAW, BLUEJAY, and SCARECROW also participate in root initiation and are required to pattern the new organ, as mutants show disorganized and reduced number of layers and tissue initials resulting in reduced rooting. Our work provides an organ regeneration model through de novo root formation, stating key stages and the primary pathways involved.}, }
@article {pmid29229413, year = {2018}, author = {Taufique, SKT and Prabhat, A and Kumar, V}, title = {Constant light environment suppresses maturation and reduces complexity of new born neuron processes in the hippocampus and caudal nidopallium of a diurnal corvid: Implication for impairment of the learning and cognitive performance.}, journal = {Neurobiology of learning and memory}, volume = {147}, number = {}, pages = {120-127}, doi = {10.1016/j.nlm.2017.12.001}, pmid = {29229413}, issn = {1095-9564}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Association Learning/*physiology ; Cerebral Cortex/metabolism/*physiology ; Circadian Rhythm/*physiology ; Crows/metabolism/*physiology ; Doublecortin Domain Proteins ; Doublecortin Protein ; Hippocampus/physiology ; Microtubule-Associated Proteins/*metabolism ; Neurogenesis/*physiology ; Neuropeptides/*metabolism ; *Photoperiod ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Spatial Learning/*physiology ; Tyrosine 3-Monooxygenase/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Periodic day-night environment shapes the temporal pattern in the behaviour and physiology (e.g. 24-h activity-rest and sleep-wake cycles) and the advanced brain function, such as learning, memory and decision making. In a previous study, we showed the abolition of 24-h rhythm in the activity-rest pattern, and an attenuated cognitive performance in diurnal Indian house crows (Corvus splendens) under constant light (no-night; LL) environment. Present study extended this, and investigated LL-induced effects on the neurogenesis (birth, maturation and neurite complexity of new born neurons) in the hippocampus and caudal nidopallium, the brain regions directly associated with learning and cognition in birds. We performed immunohistochemistry of doublecortin (DCX; a neurogenesis marker) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH, a key enzyme of the dopamine biosynthesis) in the brain section containing hippocampus or caudal nidopallium of Indian house crows exposed for 2 weeks to LL, with controls maintained under 12L:12D. As expected, crows showed arrhythmicity with a significantly reduced rest period in the 24-h activity-rest pattern, and a decreased cognitive performance when tested for the spatial and pattern association learning tasks under LL. Importantly, there was a significant decrease in DCX-immunoreactive (ir) cells and, as shown by Sholl analysis, in the complexity of DCX-ir neurites in both, the hippocampus and caudal nidopallium of crows under LL, as compared to those under 12L:12D. The anatomical proximity of DCX-ir neurons with TH-ir fibers suggested a functional association of the new born hippocampal and caudal nidopallial neurons with the learning, and perhaps cognition in Indian house crows. These results give insights into possible impact of the loss of night on brain health and functions in an emerging ecosystem in which other diurnal species including humans may be inadvertently exposed to an illuminated night, such as in an overly lighted metropolitan urban habitat.}, }
@article {pmid29225028, year = {2017}, author = {Sugasawa, S and Klump, BC and St Clair, JJH and Rutz, C}, title = {Causes and Consequences of Tool Shape Variation in New Caledonian Crows.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {27}, number = {24}, pages = {3885-3890.e4}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2017.11.028}, pmid = {29225028}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Hominins have been making tools for over three million years [1], yet the earliest known hooked tools appeared as recently as 90,000 years ago [2]. Hook innovation is likely to have boosted our ancestors' hunting and fishing efficiency [3], marking a major transition in human technological evolution. The New Caledonian crow is the only non-human animal known to craft hooks in the wild [4, 5]. Crows manufacture hooked stick tools in a multi-stage process, involving the detachment of a branch from suitable vegetation; "sculpting" of a terminal hook from the nodal joint; and often additional adjustments, such as length trimming, shaft bending, and bark stripping [4, 6, 7]. Although tools made by a given population share key design features [4, 6, 8], they vary appreciably in overall shape and hook dimensions. Using wild-caught, temporarily captive crows, we experimentally investigated causes and consequences of variation in hook-tool morphology. We found that bird age, manufacture method, and raw-material properties influenced tool morphology, and that hook geometry in turn affected crows' foraging efficiency. Specifically, hook depth varied with both detachment technique and plant rigidity, and deeper hooks enabled faster prey extraction in the provided tasks. Older crows manufactured tools of distinctive shape, with pronounced shaft curvature and hooks of intermediate depth. Future work should explore the interactive effects of extrinsic and intrinsic factors on tool production and deployment. Our study provides a quantitative assessment of the drivers and functional significance of tool shape variation in a non-human animal, affording valuable comparative insights into early hominin tool crafting [9].}, }
@article {pmid29217466, year = {2018}, author = {Elderbrock, EK and Small, TW and Schoech, SJ}, title = {Influence of corticosterone treatment on nestling begging in Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens).}, journal = {General and comparative endocrinology}, volume = {259}, number = {}, pages = {213-222}, doi = {10.1016/j.ygcen.2017.12.003}, pmid = {29217466}, issn = {1095-6840}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Corticosterone/pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Female ; Nesting Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Altricial young are dependent on adults for protection and food, and they display nutritional need by begging to elicit feeding from parents. Begging at high levels can be energetically expensive and attract predators; thus, an individual must balance its nutritional needs with these potential costs. Further, because a parent is limited in the amount of food it can provide, begging can contribute to both parent-offspring conflict and sibling-sibling competition. Many extrinsic and intrinsic factors may contribute to begging behavior. One intrinsic factor of interest is corticosterone (CORT), a metabolic hormone hypothesized to play a role in regulating a nestling's begging behavior. We investigated the hypothesis that increased exposure to CORT influences nestling begging behavior in an altricial species, the Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens). We treated one nestling per treatment nest with a twice-daily dose of exogenous hormone via a CORT-injected waxworm, whereas a second individual received a vehicle-injected waxworm. We monitored individual nestling and adult behavior at all nests with the use of high-definition video cameras on several days during treatment. We found no difference in begging rate between CORT fed and vehicle fed nestlings within a treatment nest. Further, to determine whether CORT treatment had indirect effects on the entire brood, we monitored additional nests, in which nestlings were not manipulated. When treatment and controls were compared, overall begging rates of nestlings in treatment nests were greater than those in control nests. This result suggests that CORT treatment of an individual altered its behavior, as well as that of its siblings.}, }
@article {pmid29213080, year = {2017}, author = {Danel, S and Osiurak, F and von Bayern, AMP}, title = {From the Age of 5 Humans Decide Economically, Whereas Crows Exhibit Individual Preferences.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {17043}, pmid = {29213080}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Child, Preschool ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Problem Solving ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Human societies greatly depend on tools, which spare us considerable time and effort. Humans might have evolved a bias to employ tools, using them even when they are unnecessary. This study aimed to investigate whether adult humans and a distantly related habitually tool-using vertebrate species, the New Caledonian crow (Corvus moneduloides), use tools depending on their necessity. In addition, children aged 3 to 5 years were examined to investigate the developmental pattern. The task involved choosing between using a body part (i.e. crows: beak; humans: hand) or a tool for retrieving a reward from a box. All subjects were tested in two conditions. In the Body+/Tool- condition, using the body was more efficient than using the tool, and conversely in the Body-/Tool+ condition. Our results suggest that the capacity to employ tools economically develops late in humans. Crows, however, failed to choose economically. At the individual level, some subjects exhibited striking individual preferences for either using a tool or their beak throughout the task. Whether such biases depend on individual experience or whether they are genetically determined remains to be investigated. Our findings provide new insights about tool use and its cognitive implementation in two outstanding tool-using taxa.}, }
@article {pmid29210086, year = {2018}, author = {Jenner, RA}, title = {Evolution Is Linear: Debunking Life's Little Joke.}, journal = {BioEssays : news and reviews in molecular, cellular and developmental biology}, volume = {40}, number = {1}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1002/bies.201700196}, pmid = {29210086}, issn = {1521-1878}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Humans ; *Life ; Metaphor ; Paleontology ; Science ; }, abstract = {Linear depictions of the evolutionary process are ubiquitous in popular culture, but linear evolutionary imagery is strongly rejected by scientists who argue that evolution branches. This point is frequently illustrated by saying that we didn't evolve from monkeys, but that we are related to them as collateral relatives. Yet, we did evolve from monkeys, but our monkey ancestors are extinct, not extant. Influential voices, such as the late Stephen Jay Gould, have misled audiences for decades by falsely portraying the linear and branching aspects of evolution to be in conflict, and by failing to distinguish between the legitimate linearity of evolutionary descent, and the branching relationships among collateral relatives that result when lineages of ancestors diverge. The purpose of this article is to correct the widespread misplaced rejection of linear evolutionary imagery, and to re-emphasize the basic truth that the evolutionary process is fundamentally linear.}, }
@article {pmid29209190, year = {2017}, author = {Amin, HU and Mumtaz, W and Subhani, AR and Saad, MNM and Malik, AS}, title = {Classification of EEG Signals Based on Pattern Recognition Approach.}, journal = {Frontiers in computational neuroscience}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {103}, pmid = {29209190}, issn = {1662-5188}, abstract = {Feature extraction is an important step in the process of electroencephalogram (EEG) signal classification. The authors propose a "pattern recognition" approach that discriminates EEG signals recorded during different cognitive conditions. Wavelet based feature extraction such as, multi-resolution decompositions into detailed and approximate coefficients as well as relative wavelet energy were computed. Extracted relative wavelet energy features were normalized to zero mean and unit variance and then optimized using Fisher's discriminant ratio (FDR) and principal component analysis (PCA). A high density EEG dataset validated the proposed method (128-channels) by identifying two classifications: (1) EEG signals recorded during complex cognitive tasks using Raven's Advance Progressive Metric (RAPM) test; (2) EEG signals recorded during a baseline task (eyes open). Classifiers such as, K-nearest neighbors (KNN), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Multi-layer Perceptron (MLP), and Naïve Bayes (NB) were then employed. Outcomes yielded 99.11% accuracy via SVM classifier for coefficient approximations (A5) of low frequencies ranging from 0 to 3.90 Hz. Accuracy rates for detailed coefficients were 98.57 and 98.39% for SVM and KNN, respectively; and for detailed coefficients (D5) deriving from the sub-band range (3.90-7.81 Hz). Accuracy rates for MLP and NB classifiers were comparable at 97.11-89.63% and 91.60-81.07% for A5 and D5 coefficients, respectively. In addition, the proposed approach was also applied on public dataset for classification of two cognitive tasks and achieved comparable classification results, i.e., 93.33% accuracy with KNN. The proposed scheme yielded significantly higher classification performances using machine learning classifiers compared to extant quantitative feature extraction. These results suggest the proposed feature extraction method reliably classifies EEG signals recorded during cognitive tasks with a higher degree of accuracy.}, }
@article {pmid29187607, year = {2017}, author = {Found, R}, title = {Interactions between cleaner-birds and ungulates are personality dependent.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {13}, number = {11}, pages = {}, pmid = {29187607}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Aggression ; Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Deer/*psychology ; *Passeriformes ; Personality ; }, abstract = {While a growing body of literature explores the ecological implications of consistent individual variation in the behaviour of wildlife, few studies have looked at the reciprocal influences of personality within interspecific interactions, despite the potentially significant impacts on biodiversity. Here I used two species involved in cleaner-bird behaviour-black-billed magpies (Pica pica) and Rocky mountain elk (Cervus canadensis)-to show that the exhibition of mutualistic behaviour can depend on the personality of the individual involved. I recorded suites of correlated behaviours in both elk and magpies to derive personality gradients from 'shy' to 'bold', which I compared with observations of interspecific interactions. I measured each half of this mutualistic relationship separately. I found that bold elk were more likely to aggressively reject magpie landings, while shy elk allowed magpies to land and groom them. Contrastingly, I found it was bold magpies that were willing to risk landings, while shy magpies rarely attempted landings. These results show that the exhibition of interspecific behaviour is predicated on the personality of the individuals, and thus likely contributes to the selection and maintenance of personality variation within populations.}, }
@article {pmid29180719, year = {2018}, author = {Krzemińska, U and Morales, HE and Greening, C and Nyári, &#xc1;S and Wilson, R and Song, BK and Austin, CM and Sunnucks, P and Pavlova, A and Rahman, S}, title = {Population mitogenomics provides insights into evolutionary history, source of invasions and diversifying selection in the House Crow (Corvus splendens).}, journal = {Heredity}, volume = {120}, number = {4}, pages = {296-309}, pmid = {29180719}, issn = {1365-2540}, mesh = {Africa ; Animals ; Asia ; Bayes Theorem ; *Biological Evolution ; Codon ; Crows/*genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; Ecosystem ; Genetic Variation ; *Genetics, Population ; *Genome, Mitochondrial ; Phylogeny ; Phylogeography ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {The House Crow (Corvus splendens) is a useful study system for investigating the genetic basis of adaptations underpinning successful range expansion. The species originates from the Indian subcontinent, but has successfully spread through a variety of thermal environments across Asia, Africa and Europe. Here, population mitogenomics was used to investigate the colonisation history and to test for signals of molecular selection on the mitochondrial genome. We sequenced the mitogenomes of 89 House Crows spanning four native and five invasive populations. A Bayesian dated phylogeny, based on the 13 mitochondrial protein-coding genes, supports a mid-Pleistocene (~630,000 years ago) divergence between the most distant genetic lineages. Phylogeographic patterns suggest that northern South Asia is the likely centre of origin for the species. Codon-based analyses of selection and assessments of changes in amino acid properties provide evidence of positive selection on the ND2 and ND5 genes against a background of purifying selection across the mitogenome. Protein homology modelling suggests that four amino acid substitutions inferred to be under positive selection may modulate coupling efficiency and proton translocation mediated by OXPHOS complex I. The identified substitutions are found within native House Crow lineages and ecological niche modelling predicts suitable climatic areas for the establishment of crow populations within the invasive range. Mitogenomic patterns in the invasive range of the species are more strongly associated with introduction history than climate. We speculate that invasions of the House Crow have been facilitated by standing genetic variation that accumulated due to diversifying selection within the native range.}, }
@article {pmid29176725, year = {2017}, author = {Chen, Z and De Beuckelaer, A and Wang, X and Liu, J}, title = {Distinct neural substrates of visuospatial and verbal-analytic reasoning as assessed by Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {16230}, pmid = {29176725}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Brain/diagnostic imaging/*physiology ; *Brain Mapping ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Language ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Recent studies revealed spontaneous neural activity to be associated with fluid intelligence (gF) which is commonly assessed by Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices, and embeds two types of reasoning: visuospatial and verbal-analytic reasoning. With resting-state fMRI data, using global brain connectivity (GBC) analysis which averages functional connectivity of a voxel in relation to all other voxels in the brain, distinct neural correlates of these two reasoning types were found. For visuospatial reasoning, negative correlations were observed in both the primary visual cortex (PVC) and the precuneus, and positive correlations were observed in the temporal lobe. For verbal-analytic reasoning, negative correlations were observed in the right inferior frontal gyrus (rIFG), dorsal anterior cingulate cortex and temporoparietal junction, and positive correlations were observed in the angular gyrus. Furthermore, an interaction between GBC value and type of reasoning was found in the PVC, rIFG and the temporal lobe. These findings suggest that visuospatial reasoning benefits more from elaborate perception to stimulus features, whereas verbal-analytic reasoning benefits more from feature integration and hypothesis testing. In sum, the present study offers, for different types of reasoning in gF, first empirical evidence of separate neural substrates in the resting brain.}, }
@article {pmid29175405, year = {2018}, author = {Yang, F and Xie, S and Liu, J and Wei, C and Zhang, H and Chen, T and Zhang, J}, title = {Arsenic concentrations and speciation in wild birds from an abandoned realgar mine in China.}, journal = {Chemosphere}, volume = {193}, number = {}, pages = {777-784}, doi = {10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.11.098}, pmid = {29175405}, issn = {1879-1298}, mesh = {Animals ; Arsenates ; Arsenic/*analysis/chemistry ; Arsenicals/*analysis ; Arsenites ; *Birds ; Cacodylic Acid/analysis ; China ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid/methods ; Feathers/chemistry ; Mass Spectrometry/methods ; *Mining ; Muscle, Skeletal/chemistry ; Passeriformes ; Sulfides ; }, abstract = {Birds are at a higher level in the food chain; however, the potential bioaccumulation and biotransformation of arsenic (As) in birds in As mines has rarely been studied. In this study, four passerine bird species (tree sparrow [Passer montanus], light-vented bulbul [Pycnonotus sinensis], Garrulax canorus [Leucodioptron canorus], and magpie [Pica pica]) were collected from an abandoned As mine in China. The highest recorded As concentrations were 4.95 mg/kg and 51.65 mg/kg in muscles and feathers, respectively. Detection using high-performance liquid chromatography inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (HPLC-ICP-MS) revealed six As species, including arsenite (As(III)), arsenate (As(V)), dimethylarsinic acid (DMA), monomethylarsonic acid (MMA), arsenobetaine (AsB) and arsenocholine (AsC), with the former three species as the dominant (>92%) and the latter three as the minor As species (<6.17%). Further analysis of the selected bird samples using the X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) technique revealed the existence of As(III)-tris-glutathione (As(III)-GSH), which can be regarded as equivalent to the non-extractable and unidentified As form in the HPLC-ICP-MS data. Both methods revealed similar patterns of As species in the birds from the As mine, with muscles containing mainly inorganic As and DMA and feathers containing mainly inorganic As. The results of this study contribute to the knowledge regarding As accumulation and speciation in terrestrial organisms.}, }
@article {pmid29167158, year = {2017}, author = {Farrar, DR and Stensvold, MC}, title = {Observations on bipolar disjunctions of moonwort ferns (Botrychium, Ophioglossaceae).}, journal = {American journal of botany}, volume = {104}, number = {11}, pages = {1675-1679}, doi = {10.3732/ajb.1700166}, pmid = {29167158}, issn = {1537-2197}, mesh = {Ferns/genetics/*physiology ; Genotype ; Hybridization, Genetic ; New Zealand ; North America ; Phylogeny ; *Plant Dispersal ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Peter Raven, in 1963, included two fern taxa of the genus Botrychium in his list of plant species exhibiting American amphitropical bipolar disjunctions. He attributed the southern hemisphere occurrences to post-Pleistocene long-distance dispersal from counterparts in the northern hemisphere, probably assisted by annual bird migrations between the disjunct areas. Using genetic evidence gathered through worldwide analyses of phylogenetic relationship in Botrychium, we now review and reconsider Raven's conclusions. Genetic similarities indicate that South American Botrychium dusenii is an allotetraploid taxon closely related to B. spathulatum, a North American endemic, and that B. lunaria in New Zealand possesses a genotype identical to that of a taxon in North America derived through introgressive hybridization between B. lunaria and an endemic North American species, B. neolunaria. Both North American counterparts exhibit Raven's characteristics of bipolar disjuncts in their occurrence in mountain and coastal meadows, copious production of small propagules (spores in Botrychium), occurrence in habitats frequented by transpolar bird migrants, and ability to found new colonies through inbreeding. We discuss these characteristics in Botrychium and relative to other ferns and suggest further studies on Botrychium and related taxa to address questions of time, number, and mode of bipolar dispersals.}, }
@article {pmid29163144, year = {2017}, author = {Trammell, JP and MacRae, PG and Davis, G and Bergstedt, D and Anderson, AE}, title = {The Relationship of Cognitive Performance and the Theta-Alpha Power Ratio Is Age-Dependent: An EEG Study of Short Term Memory and Reasoning during Task and Resting-State in Healthy Young and Old Adults.}, journal = {Frontiers in aging neuroscience}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {364}, pmid = {29163144}, issn = {1663-4365}, support = {K25 AG051782/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R03 MH106922/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Objective: The Theta-Alpha ratio (TAR) is known to differ based upon age and cognitive ability, with pathological electroencephalography (EEG) patterns routinely found within neurodegenerative disorders of older adults. We hypothesized that cognitive ability would predict EEG metrics differently within healthy young and old adults, and that healthy old adults not showing age-expected EEG activity may be more likely to demonstrate cognitive deficits relative to old adults showing these expected changes. Methods: In 216 EEG blocks collected in 16 young and 20 old adults during rest (eyes open, eyes closed) and cognitive tasks (short-term memory [STM]; matrix reasoning [RM; Raven's matrices]), models assessed the contributing roles of cognitive ability, age, and task in predicting the TAR. A general linear mixed-effects regression model was used to model this relationship, including interaction effects to test whether increased cognitive ability predicted TAR differently for young and old adults at rest and during cognitive tasks. Results: The relationship between cognitive ability and the TAR across all blocks showed age-dependency, and cognitive performance at the CZ midline location predicted the TAR measure when accounting for the effect of age (p < 0.05, chi-square test of nested models). Age significantly interacted with STM performance in predicting the TAR (p < 0.05); increases in STM were associated with increased TAR in young adults, but not in old adults. RM showed similar interaction effects with aging and TAR (p < 0.10). Conclusion: EEG correlates of cognitive ability are age-dependent. Adults who did not show age-related EEG changes were more likely to exhibit cognitive deficits than those who showed age-related changes. This suggests that healthy aging should produce moderate changes in Alpha and TAR measures, and the absence of such changes signals impaired cognitive functioning.}, }
@article {pmid29154697, year = {2018}, author = {Dujela, M and Hyer, CF and Berlet, GC}, title = {Rate of Subtalar Joint Arthrodesis After Retrograde Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis With Intramedullary Nail Fixation: Evaluation of the RAIN Database.}, journal = {Foot &amp; ankle specialist}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {410-415}, doi = {10.1177/1938640017740674}, pmid = {29154697}, issn = {1938-7636}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Ankle Fractures/diagnostic imaging/*surgery ; Arthritis/complications/diagnosis ; Arthrodesis/instrumentation/*methods ; *Bone Nails ; Databases, Factual ; Female ; Foot Deformities, Acquired/etiology/physiopathology/surgery ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Pain Measurement ; Prognosis ; Range of Motion, Articular/*physiology ; Retrospective Studies ; Risk Assessment ; Subtalar Joint/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology/*surgery ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hindfoot arthritis or significant deformity involving the ankle and subtalar joint (STJ) is a disabling condition with few salvage options. Many surgeons note a decreased STJ fusion rate compared with ankle union when a retrograde nail construct is used. The purpose of this study was to report the STJ fusion rate of tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis with retrograde nail.<br><br>METHODS: A chart and radiographic review was performed. TTC fusions performed in patients with osteoarthritis, posttraumatic arthritis, or deformity correction with retrograde nail fixation were included. Exclusion criteria included neuropathy, Charcot arthropathy, and failed total ankle replacement.<br><br>RESULTS: Ultimately, 66 retrograde TTC fusions (in 63 patients) met inclusion criteria. The average age was 57.0 years. There were 29 female and 34 male patients. Radiographic fusion of the ankle and STJ was demonstrated in 68.2% of the patients. There were 11 cases (16.7%) of ankle arthrodesis with STJ nonunion, 6 cases (9.1%) of STJ fusion but ankle nonunion, and 4 cases (6.1%) of stable radiographic nonunion of both joints. The mean time to subtalar fusion was 112.1 days. One patient required revision surgery and conversion to below-knee amputation. One patient required a CROW walker for assistance with gait.<br><br>CONCLUSION: A 22.8% radiographic nonunion rate of the STJ was noted in retrograde TTC fusion. Despite this, patients were stable and pain free.<br><br>LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Level IV: Retrospective Case series.}, }
@article {pmid29154295, year = {2017}, author = {}, title = {Professional Tribute: Jay Neufeld.}, journal = {Journal of pediatric rehabilitation medicine}, volume = {10}, number = {3-4}, pages = {159-160}, doi = {10.3233/PRM-170468}, pmid = {29154295}, issn = {1875-8894}, }
@article {pmid29143707, year = {2018}, author = {Fiorentino, M and Perignon, M and Kuong, K and de Groot, R and Parker, M and Burja, K and Dijkhuizen, MA and Sokhom, S and Chamnan, C and Berger, J and Wieringa, FT}, title = {Effect of multi-micronutrient-fortified rice on cognitive performance depends on premix composition and cognitive function tested: results of an effectiveness study in Cambodian schoolchildren.}, journal = {Public health nutrition}, volume = {21}, number = {4}, pages = {816-827}, pmid = {29143707}, issn = {1475-2727}, mesh = {Academic Success ; Animals ; Cambodia ; Child ; *Child Health ; Cognition/*drug effects ; *Diet ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; *Food, Fortified ; Humans ; Male ; Micronutrients/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; *Nutritional Status ; *Oryza ; Parasites ; Schools ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Even though current policy is strongly focused on the crucial first '1000 days', it might be still possible to enhance cognitive function during the pre-adolescent and adolescent years by improving micronutrient status. In Cambodia, nutritional status is poor. Provision of rice fortified with micronutrients through a school meal programme (SMP) could be a cost-effective strategy to help improve health and school performance. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of three different micronutrient-fortified rice formulations on cognitive function in Cambodian children.<br><br>SETTING: Sixteen Cambodian schools receiving SMP.<br><br>DESIGN: The FORISCA-UltraRice&#xae;+NutriRice&#xae; study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Four groups of four schools were randomly allocated to receive normal rice, UltraRice&#xae;Original, UltraRice&#xae;New or NutriRice&#xae;. Within each school, 132 children were randomly selected. Data on cognitive performance (picture completion, block design and Raven's coloured progressive matrices (RCPM)), anthropometry, parasite infestation and micronutrient status were collected before the intervention and after 6 months.<br><br>SUBJECTS: Cognitive data were available for 1796 children aged 6-16 years.<br><br>RESULTS: All cognitive scores improved after 6 months (P<0&#xb7;001). Block design score improvement was significantly higher in children consuming UltraRice&#xae;Original (P=0&#xb7;03) compared with the other fortified rice groups and placebo. No difference among groups was found on RCPM or picture completion scores. Stunting, parasite infestation and inflammation negatively affected the impact of the intervention.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Combined with other interventions, using SMP to distribute fortified rice to schoolchildren may be a cost-effective way to increase cognitive performance and thereby improve school performance and educational achievements.}, }
@article {pmid29142017, year = {2017}, author = {Banerjee, S and Perelson, AS and Moses, M}, title = {Modelling the effects of phylogeny and body size on within-host pathogen replication and immune response.}, journal = {Journal of the Royal Society, Interface}, volume = {14}, number = {136}, pages = {}, pmid = {29142017}, issn = {1742-5662}, support = {R01 AI028433/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 OD011095/OD/NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds/immunology/virology ; *Body Size ; Host-Parasite Interactions/*immunology ; Humans ; *Models, Immunological ; *Phylogeny ; West Nile virus/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Understanding how quickly pathogens replicate and how quickly the immune system responds is important for predicting the epidemic spread of emerging pathogens. Host body size, through its correlation with metabolic rates, is theoretically predicted to impact pathogen replication rates and immune system response rates. Here, we use mathematical models of viral time courses from multiple species of birds infected by a generalist pathogen (West Nile Virus; WNV) to test more thoroughly how disease progression and immune response depend on mass and host phylogeny. We use hierarchical Bayesian models coupled with nonlinear dynamical models of disease dynamics to incorporate the hierarchical nature of host phylogeny. Our analysis suggests an important role for both host phylogeny and species mass in determining factors important for viral spread such as the basic reproductive number, WNV production rate, peak viraemia in blood and competency of a host to infect mosquitoes. Our model is based on a principled analysis and gives a quantitative prediction for key epidemiological determinants and how they vary with species mass and phylogeny. This leads to new hypotheses about the mechanisms that cause certain taxonomic groups to have higher viraemia. For example, our models suggest that higher viral burst sizes cause corvids to have higher levels of viraemia and that the cellular rate of virus production is lower in larger species. We derive a metric of competency of a host to infect disease vectors and thereby sustain the disease between hosts. This suggests that smaller passerine species are highly competent at spreading the disease compared with larger non-passerine species. Our models lend mechanistic insight into why some species (smaller passerine species) are pathogen reservoirs and some (larger non-passerine species) are potentially dead-end hosts for WNV. Our techniques give insights into the role of body mass and host phylogeny in the spread of WNV and potentially other zoonotic diseases. The major contribution of this work is a computational framework for infectious disease modelling at the within-host level that leverages data from multiple species. This is likely to be of interest to modellers of infectious diseases that jump species barriers and infect multiple species. Our method can be used to computationally determine the competency of a host to infect mosquitoes that will sustain WNV and other zoonotic diseases. We find that smaller passerine species are more competent in spreading the disease than larger non-passerine species. This suggests the role of host phylogeny as an important determinant of within-host pathogen replication. Ultimately, we view our work as an important step in linking within-host viral dynamics models to between-host models that determine spread of infectious disease between different hosts.}, }
@article {pmid29131787, year = {2017}, author = {Rubin, R}, title = {Mary Crow: leader in research on systemic lupus erythematosus.}, journal = {Lancet (London, England)}, volume = {390}, number = {10103}, pages = {1636}, doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(17)32554-0}, pmid = {29131787}, issn = {1474-547X}, mesh = {Biomedical Research/*history ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; *Leadership ; Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/*history ; New York ; }, }
@article {pmid29130067, year = {2017}, author = {Li, Y and Hannaford, B}, title = {Gaussian Process Regression for Sensorless Grip Force Estimation of Cable Driven Elongated Surgical Instruments.}, journal = {IEEE robotics and automation letters}, volume = {2}, number = {3}, pages = {1312-1319}, pmid = {29130067}, issn = {2377-3766}, support = {R21 EB016122/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Haptic feedback is a critical but a clinically missing component in robotic Minimally Invasive Surgeries. This paper proposes a Gaussian Process Regression(GPR) based scheme to address the gripping force estimation problem for clinically commonly used elongated cable-driven surgical instruments. Based on the cable-driven mechanism property studies and surgical robotic system properties, four different Gaussian Process Regression filters were designed and analyzed, including: one GPR filter with 2-dimensional inputs, one GPR filter with 3-dimensional inputs, one GPR Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF) with 2-dimensional inputs, and one GPR UKF with 3-dimensional inputs. The four proposed methods were compared with the dynamic model based UKF filter on a 10mm gripper on the Raven-II surgical robot platform. The experimental results demonstrated that the four proposed methods outperformed the dynamic model based method on precision and reliability without parameter tuning. And surprisingly, among the four methods, the simplest GPR Filter with 2-dimensional inputs has the best performance.}, }
@article {pmid29129070, year = {2017}, author = {Librizzi, M and Caradonna, F and Cruciata, I and Dębski, J and Sansook, S and Dadlez, M and Spencer, J and Luparello, C}, title = {Molecular Signatures Associated with Treatment of Triple-Negative MDA-MB231 Breast Cancer Cells with Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors JAHA and SAHA.}, journal = {Chemical research in toxicology}, volume = {30}, number = {12}, pages = {2187-2196}, doi = {10.1021/acs.chemrestox.7b00269}, pmid = {29129070}, issn = {1520-5010}, mesh = {Antineoplastic Agents/chemistry/*pharmacology ; Cell Line, Tumor ; Computational Biology ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Drug Screening Assays, Antitumor ; Ferrous Compounds/chemistry/*pharmacology ; Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors/chemistry/*pharmacology ; Humans ; Hydroxamic Acids/chemistry/*pharmacology ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms/*drug therapy/*genetics/pathology ; Vorinostat ; }, abstract = {Jay Amin hydroxamic acid (JAHA; N8-ferrocenylN[1]-hydroxy-octanediamide) is a ferrocene-containing analogue of the histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi) suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA). JAHA's cytotoxic activity on MDA-MB231 triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells at 72 h has been previously demonstrated with an IC50 of 8.45 μM. JAHA's lethal effect was found linked to perturbations of cell cycle, mitochondrial activity, signal transduction, and autophagy mechanisms. To glean novel insights on how MDA-MB231 breast cancer cells respond to the cytotoxic effect induced by JAHA, and to compare the biological effect with the related compound SAHA, we have employed a combination of differential display-PCR, proteome analysis, and COMET assay techniques and shown some differences in the molecular signature profiles induced by exposure to either HDACis. In particular, in contrast to the more numerous and diversified changes induced by SAHA, JAHA has shown a more selective impact on expression of molecular signatures involved in antioxidant activity and DNA repair. Besides expanding the biological knowledge of the effect exerted by the modifications in compound structures on cell phenotype, the molecular elements put in evidence in our study may provide promising targets for therapeutic interventions on TNBCs.}, }
@article {pmid29128976, year = {2018}, author = {Hartmann, K and Veit, L and Nieder, A}, title = {Neurons in the crow nidopallium caudolaterale encode varying durations of visual working memory periods.}, journal = {Experimental brain research}, volume = {236}, number = {1}, pages = {215-226}, pmid = {29128976}, issn = {1432-1106}, support = {NI 618/6-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/International ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Crows ; Female ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Neurons/*physiology ; Patch-Clamp Techniques ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Telencephalon/*physiology ; Time Perception/*physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Adaptive sequential behaviors rely on the bridging and integration of temporally separate information for the realization of prospective goals. Corvids' remarkable behavioral flexibility is thought to depend on the workings of the nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL), a high-level avian associative forebrain area. We trained carrion crows to remember visual items for three alternating delay durations in a delayed match-to-sample task and recorded single-unit activity from the NCL. Sample-selective delay activity, a correlate of visual working memory, was maintained throughout different working memory durations. Delay responses remained selective for the same preferred sample item across blocks with different delay durations. However, selectivity strength decreased with increasing delay durations, mirroring worsened behavioral performance with longer memory delays. Behavioral relevance of delay activity was further evidenced by reduced encoding of the preferred sample item during error trials. In addition, NCL neurons adapted their time-dependent discharges to blocks of different memory durations, so that delay duration could be successfully classified based on population activity a few trials after the delay duration switched. Therefore, NCL neurons not only maintain information from individual trials, but also keep track of the duration for which this information is needed in the context of the task. These results strengthen the role of corvid NCL in maintaining working memory for flexible control of temporally extended goal-directed behavior.}, }
@article {pmid29121785, year = {2019}, author = {Lúcio, PS and Cogo-Moreira, H and Puglisi, M and Polanczyk, GV and Little, TD}, title = {Psychometric Investigation of the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices Test in a Sample of Preschool Children.}, journal = {Assessment}, volume = {26}, number = {7}, pages = {1399-1408}, doi = {10.1177/1073191117740205}, pmid = {29121785}, issn = {1552-3489}, mesh = {Age Distribution ; *Aptitude Tests ; Brazil ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Psychometrics/*methods ; Sex Distribution ; }, abstract = {The present study investigated the psychometric properties of the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (CPM) test in a sample of preschoolers from Brazil (n = 582; age: mean = 57 months, SD = 7 months; 46% female). We investigated the plausibility of unidimensionality of the items (confirmatory factor analysis) and differential item functioning (DIF) for sex and age (multiple indicators multiple causes method). We tested four unidimensional models and the one with the best-fit index was a reduced form of the Raven's CPM. The DIF analysis was carried out with the reduced form of the test. A few items presented DIF (two for sex and one for age), confirming that the Raven's CPM items are mostly measurement invariant. There was no effect of sex on the general factor, but increasing age was associated with higher values of the g factor. Future research should indicate if the reduced form is suitable for evaluating the general ability of preschoolers.}, }
@article {pmid29098484, year = {2018}, author = {Rudwick, MJS}, title = {The Fate of the Method of 'Paradigms' in Paleobiology.}, journal = {Journal of the history of biology}, volume = {51}, number = {3}, pages = {479-533}, pmid = {29098484}, issn = {1573-0387}, mesh = {Animals ; Arthropods/anatomy &amp; histology ; Biological Evolution ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Fossils/*anatomy &amp; histology ; History, 20th Century ; Invertebrates/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Life History Traits ; Paleontology/*history/methods ; }, abstract = {An earlier article described the mid-twentieth century origins of the method of "paradigms" in paleobiology, as a way of making testable hypotheses about the functional morphology of extinct organisms. The present article describes the use of "paradigms" through the 1970s and, briefly, to the end of the century. After I had proposed the paradigm method to help interpret the ecological history of brachiopods, my students developed it in relation to that and other invertebrate phyla, notably in Euan Clarkson's analysis of vision in trilobites. David Raup's computer-aided "theoretical morphology" was then combined with my functional or adaptive emphasis, in Adolf Seilacher's tripartite "constructional morphology." Stephen Jay Gould, who had strongly endorsed the method, later switched to criticizing the "adaptationist program" he claimed it embodied. Although the explicit use of paradigms in paleobiology had declined by the end of the century, the method was tacitly subsumed into functional morphology as "biomechanics."}, }
@article {pmid29094992, year = {2018}, author = {Mulligan, NW and Rawson, KA and Peterson, DJ and Wissman, KT}, title = {The replicability of the negative testing effect: Differences across participant populations.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Learning, memory, and cognition}, volume = {44}, number = {5}, pages = {752-763}, doi = {10.1037/xlm0000490}, pmid = {29094992}, issn = {1939-1285}, mesh = {Adult ; Association Learning/*physiology ; *Cues ; Humans ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; Pattern Recognition, Visual/*physiology ; *Practice, Psychological ; Psychology, Experimental/*methods ; *Reading ; *Research Design ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Although memory retrieval often enhances subsequent memory, Peterson and Mulligan (2013) reported conditions under which retrieval produces poorer subsequent recall-the negative testing effect. The item-specific-relational account proposes that the effect occurs when retrieval disrupts interitem organizational processing relative to the restudy condition. Rawson et al. (2015), in contrast, failed to replicate the negative testing effect despite repeated high-powered attempts. This article examines the discrepant results, ruling out differences in procedures, and concludes that differences in participant population produced the varying outcome. Specifically, participants from the University of North Carolina (UNC) and Kent State University (KSU) completed the same version of the negative-testing paradigm and were assessed on several measures of cognitive ability (working memory capacity, Raven's progressive matrices, and SAT or ACT score). For the UNC sample, free recall scores and the amount of category clustering (a measure of organizational processing) was greater in the restudy than retrieval condition (i.e., the negative testing effect was found); for the KSU sample, there was no difference on either measure. Furthermore, in the restudy condition, recall and clustering was greater for UNC than KSU students whereas in the retrieval condition, there was no effect of site on either measure. As expected, measures of cognitive ability were greater for the UNC than KSU sample. The results indicate that the negative testing effect is replicable but is subject to limitation related to the participant population. An analysis in terms of the relationship between cognitive ability and memory predicted this pattern of results. (PsycINFO Database Record}, }
@article {pmid29084259, year = {2017}, author = {Johnsen, A and Kearns, AM and Omland, KE and Anmarkrud, JA}, title = {Sequencing of the complete mitochondrial genome of the common raven Corvus corax (Aves: Corvidae) confirms mitogenome-wide deep lineages and a paraphyletic relationship with the Chihuahuan raven C. cryptoleucus.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {12}, number = {10}, pages = {e0187316}, pmid = {29084259}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/classification/*genetics ; *Genome, Mitochondrial ; Phylogeny ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Previous studies based on single mitochondrial markers have shown that the common raven (Corvus corax) consists of two highly diverged lineages that are hypothesised to have undergone speciation reversal upon secondary contact. Furthermore, common ravens are paraphyletic with respect to the Chihuahuan raven (C. cryptoleucus) based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Here we explore the causes of mtDNA paraphyly by sequencing whole mitochondrial genomes of 12 common ravens from across the Northern Hemisphere, in addition to three Chihuahuan ravens and one closely related brown-necked raven (C. ruficollis) using a long-range PCR protocol. Our raven mitogenomes ranged between 16925-16928 bp in length. GC content varied from 43.3% to 43.8% and the 13 protein coding genes, two rRNAs and 22 tRNAs followed a standard avian mitochondrial arrangement. The overall divergence between the two common raven clades was 3% (range 0.3-5.8% in 16 regions including the protein coding genes, rRNAs and the control region). Phylogenies constructed from whole mitogenomes recovered the previously found mitochondrial sister relationship between the common raven California clade and the Chihuahuan raven (overall divergence 1.1%), which strengthens the hypothesis that mtDNA paraphyly in the common raven results from speciation reversal of previously distinct Holarctic and California lineages.}, }
@article {pmid29081434, year = {2017}, author = {Herzberg, D}, title = {Entitled to Addiction?: Pharmaceuticals, Race, and America's First Drug War.}, journal = {Bulletin of the history of medicine}, volume = {91}, number = {3}, pages = {586-623}, pmid = {29081434}, issn = {1086-3176}, support = {G13 LM012050/LM/NLM NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Drug and Narcotic Control/*history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Racism/*history ; Substance-Related Disorders/*history/psychology ; United States ; United States Food and Drug Administration/*history/organization &amp; administration ; }, abstract = {This article rethinks the formative decades of American drug wars through a social history of addiction to pharmaceutical narcotics, sedatives, and stimulants in the first half of the twentieth century. It argues, first, that addiction to pharmaceutical drugs is no recent aberration; it has historically been more extensive than "street" or illicit drug use. Second, it argues that access to psychoactive pharmaceuticals was a problematic social entitlement constructed as distinctively medical amid the racialized reforms of the Progressive Era. The resulting drug control regime provided inadequate consumer protection for some (through the FDA), and overly punitive policing for others (through the FBN). Instead of seeing these as two separate stories-one a liberal triumph and the other a repressive scourge-both should be understood as part of the broader establishment of a consumer market for drugs segregated by class and race like other consumer markets developed in the era of Progressivism and Jim Crow.}, }
@article {pmid29078034, year = {2018}, author = {Hill, SD and Aryal, A and Pawley, MDM and Ji, W}, title = {So much for the city: Urban-rural song variation in a widespread Asiatic songbird.}, journal = {Integrative zoology}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {194-205}, doi = {10.1111/1749-4877.12284}, pmid = {29078034}, issn = {1749-4877}, mesh = {*Animal Distribution ; Animals ; Asia ; Cities ; Male ; Noise ; Songbirds/*physiology ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Song plays a fundamental role in intraspecific communication in songbirds. The temporal and structural components of songs can vary in different habitats. These include urban habitats where anthropogenic sounds and alteration of habitat structure can significantly affect songbird vocal behavior. Urban-rural variations in song complexity, song length and syllable rate are not fully understood. In this study, using the oriental magpie-robin (Copsychus saularis) as a model, we investigated urban-rural variation in song complexity, song length, syllable rate, syllable length and inter-syllable interval. Comparing urban and rural songs from 7 countries across its natural Asiatic range (Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Thailand), we found no significant differences in oriental magpie-robin song complexity. However, we found significant differences in temporal song variables between urban and rural sites. Longer songs and inter-syllable intervals in addition to slower syllable rates within urban sites contributed the most to this variance. This indicates that the urban environment may have driven production of longer and slower songs to maximize efficient transmission of important song information in urban habitats.}, }
@article {pmid29074881, year = {2017}, author = {Scasta, JD and Stam, B and Windh, JL}, title = {Rancher-reported efficacy of lethal and non-lethal livestock predation mitigation strategies for a suite of carnivores.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {14105}, pmid = {29074881}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; *Carnivora ; Conservation of Natural Resources/*methods ; *Livestock ; *Predatory Behavior ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {Pastoralists have dealt with livestock losses from predators for millennia, yet effective mitigation strategies that balance wildlife conservation and sustainable agriculture are still needed today. In Wyoming, USA, 274 ranchers responded to a retrospective survey, and rated the efficacy of predation mitigation strategies for foxes, dogs, coyotes, wolves, bobcats, mountain lions, bears, and birds (buzzards, eagles, hawks, ravens). Rancher reported efficacy of mitigation varied by predator species, mitigation strategy, and lethality of strategies, but not livestock type. Ranchers perceive they were most effective at mitigating predation by foxes and coyotes, moderately effective at mitigating large carnivores, and the least effective at mitigating birds. Ranchers also reported that avian predators seem to be the most challenging predator type. The general perception was lethal mitigation strategies were more effective than non-lethal strategies, with guard animals showing the most potential among the non-lethal options. In general, ranchers did not perceive non-lethal strategies as a proxy for lethal strategies. However, a few ranchers reported being successful with non-lethal options such as herding, fencing, and stalling at night but more details about such successful applications are needed. Innovation in current or novel non-lethal mitigation strategies, and examples of efficacy, are needed to justify producer adoption.}, }
@article {pmid29065635, year = {2017}, author = {Li, X and Alemzadeh, H and Chen, D and Kalbarczyk, Z and Iyer, RK and Kesavadas, T}, title = {Surgeon Training in Telerobotic Surgery via a Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulator.}, journal = {Journal of healthcare engineering}, volume = {2017}, number = {}, pages = {6702919}, pmid = {29065635}, issn = {2040-2295}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Clinical Competence ; Computers ; Equipment Design ; Feedback ; Humans ; Robotic Surgical Procedures/*education/instrumentation ; *Simulation Training ; Software ; Surgeons/*education ; *Telemedicine ; *User-Computer Interface ; Virtual Reality ; }, abstract = {This work presents a software and hardware framework for a telerobotic surgery safety and motor skill training simulator. The aims are at providing trainees a comprehensive simulator for acquiring essential skills to perform telerobotic surgery. Existing commercial robotic surgery simulators lack features for safety training and optimal motion planning, which are critical factors in ensuring patient safety and efficiency in operation. In this work, we propose a hardware-in-the-loop simulator directly introducing these two features. The proposed simulator is built upon the Raven-II™ open source surgical robot, integrated with a physics engine and a safety hazard injection engine. Also, a Fast Marching Tree-based motion planning algorithm is used to help trainee learn the optimal instrument motion patterns. The main contributions of this work are (1) reproducing safety hazards events, related to da Vinci™ system, reported to the FDA MAUDE database, with a novel haptic feedback strategy to provide feedback to the operator when the underlying dynamics differ from the real robot's states so that the operator will be aware and can mitigate the negative impact of the safety-critical events, and (2) using motion planner to generate semioptimal path in an interactive robotic surgery training environment.}, }
@article {pmid29064988, year = {2017}, author = {Rossi, AM and Eviatar, J and Green, JB and Anolik, R and Eidelman, M and Keaney, TC and Narurkar, V and Jones, D and Kolodziejczyk, J and Drinkwater, A and Gallagher, CJ}, title = {Signs of Facial Aging in Men in a Diverse, Multinational Study: Timing and Preventive Behaviors.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {43 Suppl 2}, number = {}, pages = {S210-S220}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000001293}, pmid = {29064988}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Esthetics ; *Face ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Photography ; Racial Groups ; *Skin Aging ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Men are a growing patient population in aesthetic medicine and are increasingly seeking minimally invasive cosmetic procedures.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To examine differences in the timing of facial aging and in the prevalence of preventive facial aging behaviors in men by race/ethnicity.<br><br>METHODS: Men aged 18 to 75 years in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia rated their features using photonumeric rating scales for 10 facial aging characteristics. Impact of race/ethnicity (Caucasian, black, Asian, Hispanic) on severity of each feature was assessed. Subjects also reported the frequency of dermatologic facial product use.<br><br>RESULTS: The study included 819 men. Glabellar lines, crow's feet lines, and nasolabial folds showed the greatest change with age. Caucasian men reported more severe signs of aging and earlier onset, by 10 to 20 years, compared with Asian, Hispanic, and, particularly, black men. In all racial/ethnic groups, most men did not regularly engage in basic, antiaging preventive behaviors, such as use of sunscreen.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Findings from this study conducted in a globally diverse sample may guide clinical discussions with men about the prevention and treatment of signs of facial aging, to help men of all races/ethnicities achieve their desired aesthetic outcomes.}, }
@article {pmid29062203, year = {2017}, author = {Fadel, HM and Afifi, R and Al-Qabili, DM}, title = {Characterization and zoonotic impact of Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli in some wild bird species.}, journal = {Veterinary world}, volume = {10}, number = {9}, pages = {1118-1128}, pmid = {29062203}, issn = {0972-8988}, abstract = {AIM: Wild birds are considered silent vectors of some zoonotic water and food borne pathogens of public health significance. Owing to the importance of Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC) as the most pathogenic among the emerging diarrheagenic E. coli groups that can infect man; the present study was designed to detect the occurrence of STEC among wild birds in Egypt.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 177 intestinal content swab samples originating from five wild bird species were investigated for the presence of E. coli and STEC by standard culture methods. Suspect STEC isolates were further characterized by serotyping, random amplified polymorphic DNA polymerase chain reaction (RAPD PCR), antimicrobial resistance pattern and PCR detection of stx1, stx2, and eae genes.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 30 suspect STEC isolates from 30 positive birds' samples were detected and identified on STEC CHROMagar (semi-captive pigeons, 15; house crows, 8; cattle egrets, 3; moorhens, 2; and house teals, 2). 25 isolates were grouped into 13 serogroups (O:20, O:25, O:26, O:27, O:63, O:78, O:111, O:114, O:125, O:128, O:142, O:153, and O:158), while five were rough strains. The distribution of STEC virulence genes among wild birds was as follows: 16 birds carried stx1 gene only (nine pigeons [28.1%], six crows [7.1%], and one cattle egret [5.6%]). Stx1 and stx2 genes together were detected in four birds (one cattle egret [5.6%], two moorhens [6.1%], and one house teal, [10%]). Only one pigeon (3.1%) possessed the three alleles. Disk diffusion test results showed that cefixime was the most effective against STEC serotypes with (93.3%) sensitivity, followed by gentamycin (56.7%), and amoxicillin (50%). On the other hand, all the recovered STEC isolates were resistant to cefotaxime, doxycycline, cephalothin, and sulfisoxazole. RAPD fingerprinting using primers OPA-2 and OPA-9 showed that STEC isolates were heterogeneous; they yielded 30 and 27 different clusters, respectively.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Wild birds carry STEC and may add to the contamination of the surrounding environment.}, }
@article {pmid29053429, year = {2018}, author = {Allen, CR and Mara, A and Tulman, ER and Ley, DH and Geary, SJ}, title = {HOUSE FINCH (HAEMORHOUS MEXICANUS)-ASSOCIATED MYCOPLASMA GALLISEPTICUM IDENTIFIED IN LESSER GOLDFINCH (SPINUS PSALTRIA) AND WESTERN SCRUB JAY (APHELOCOMA CALIFORNICA) USING STRAIN-SPECIFIC QUANTITATIVE PCR.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {54}, number = {1}, pages = {180-185}, doi = {10.7589/2017-04-079}, pmid = {29053429}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*microbiology ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics ; Mycoplasma Infections/microbiology/*veterinary ; Mycoplasma gallisepticum/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; *Passeriformes ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/*methods ; }, abstract = {: In 1994 Mycoplasma gallisepticum was found to be the etiologic agent of House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus) conjunctivitis, a rapidly expanding epidemic caused by a genetically discrete, House Finch-associated strain of M. gallisepticum (HFMG). While most prominent in House Finches, HFMG has been reported in other members of the family Fringillidae, including American Goldfinches (Spinus tristis), Purple Finches (Haemorhous purpureus), Pine Grosbeaks (Pinicola enucleator), and Evening Grosbeaks (Coccothraustes vespertinus). Herein we report two new potential host species of HFMG strain, the Lesser Goldfinch (Spinus psaltria), belonging to the Fringillidae family, and the Western (California) Scrub Jay (Aphelocoma californica), belonging to the Corvidae family. The latter is one of only two reports of HFMG being found outside the Fringillidae family, and of these is the only one reported outside of captivity. Furthermore, non-HFMG M. gallisepticum was identified in an American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), indicating presence of additional strains in wild birds. Strain typing of M. gallisepticum isolates was done via HFMG-specific quantitative PCR analysis and validated using random amplified polymorphic DNA analysis. Our results suggested an expanded host range of HFMG strain, and further suggested that the host range of HFMG was not limited to members of the family Fringillidae.}, }
@article {pmid29052057, year = {2018}, author = {Kaszab, E and Marton, S and Forró, B and Bali, K and Lengyel, G and Bányai, K and Fehér, E}, title = {Characterization of the genomic sequence of a novel CRESS DNA virus identified in Eurasian jay (Garrulus glandarius).}, journal = {Archives of virology}, volume = {163}, number = {1}, pages = {285-289}, doi = {10.1007/s00705-017-3598-4}, pmid = {29052057}, issn = {1432-8798}, support = {Momentum//Magyar Tudom&#xe1;nyos Akad&#xe9;mia/ ; Bolyai scholarship//Magyar Tudom&#xe1;nyos Akad&#xe9;mia/ ; Bolyai scholarship//Magyar Tudom&#xe1;nyos Akad&#xe9;mia/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; DNA Viruses/*isolation &amp; purification ; DNA, Circular ; *Genome, Viral ; Genomics/*methods ; Passeriformes/*virology ; Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {Circular replication associated protein (Rep)-encoding ssDNA (CRESS DNA) viruses have diverse genomic architecture and are widely distributed in different ecosystems. In this study we characterized the complete genomic sequence of a novel circovirus-like virus, Garrulus glandarius associated circular virus-1 (GgaCV-1). The genome size (1971 nt) and other features (the nonanucleotide, rolling circle replication motif and SF3 helicase motif) are also reminiscent of circoviruses. Similar genomes with uni-directionally localized and overlapping rep and cap genes are typical of type V CRESS DNA viruses that were identified in invertebrates and environmental samples of aquatic ecosystems. GgaCV-1 showed the highest aa identity with partial rep sequences detected in bat feces (77%) and with the rep (54%) and cap (42%) of Lake Sarah-associated circular virus-23 of New Zealand freshwater mussel origin. A dietary origin for GgaCV-1 could not be excluded as the virus was detected in the cloacal swab specimen of an Eurasian jay. Further studies may help to reveal the linkage among variable organisms regarding virus transmission.}, }
@article {pmid29036268, year = {2018}, author = {Krieger, N and Jahn, JL and Waterman, PD and Chen, JT}, title = {Breast Cancer Estrogen Receptor Status According to Biological Generation: US Black and White Women Born 1915-1979.}, journal = {American journal of epidemiology}, volume = {187}, number = {5}, pages = {960-970}, doi = {10.1093/aje/kwx312}, pmid = {29036268}, issn = {1476-6256}, mesh = {Adult ; Black or African American/history/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Asian/history/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Breast Neoplasms/*epidemiology/*ethnology/metabolism ; China/ethnology ; Female ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Racism/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Receptors, Estrogen/*analysis ; SEER Program ; United States/epidemiology ; White People/history/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {Evidence suggests that contemporary population distributions of estrogen-receptor (ER) status among breast cancer patients may be shaped by earlier major societal events, such as the 1965 abolition of legal racial discrimination in the United States (state and local "Jim Crow" laws) and the Great Famine in China (1959-1961). We analyzed changes in ER status in relation to Jim Crow birthplace among the 46,417 black and 339,830 white US-born, non-Hispanic women in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) 13 Registry Group who were born between 1915 and 1979 and diagnosed (ages 25-84 years, inclusive) during 1992-2012. We grouped the cases according to birth cohort and quantified the rate of change using the haldane (which scales change in relation to biological generation). The percentage of ER-positive cases rose according to birth cohort (1915-1919 to 1975-1979) only among women diagnosed before age 55. Changes according to biological generation were greater among black women than among white women, and among black women, they were greatest among those born in Jim Crow (versus non-Jim Crow) states, with this group being the only group to exhibit high haldane values (>|0.3|, indicating high rate of change). Our study's analytical approach and findings underscore the need to consider history and societal context when analyzing ER status among breast cancer patients and racial/ethnic inequities in its distribution.}, }
@article {pmid29026697, year = {2017}, author = {Razdan, P and Patthi, B and Kumar, JK and Agnihotri, N and Chaudhari, P and Prasad, M}, title = {Effect of Fluoride Concentration in Drinking Water on Intelligence Quotient of 12-14-Year-Old Children in Mathura District: A Cross-Sectional Study.}, journal = {Journal of International Society of Preventive &amp; Community Dentistry}, volume = {7}, number = {5}, pages = {252-258}, pmid = {29026697}, issn = {2231-0762}, abstract = {AIMS: The aim was to assess and correlate the influence of the concentration of fluoride in ingested water on the intelligence quotient (IQ) of 12-14-year-old youngsters in Mathura district.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 219 children were selected, 75 from low F area, 75 medium F area, and 69 from high F area. The concentration of fluoride in the routinely ingested water was estimated using "Ion Selective Electrode method"; then, Raven's Test was utilized to estimate the IQ of the study participants. Independent t-test, Tukey's post hoc, Chi-square an analysis of variance tests were used to associate the mean and proportion IQ scores in high-, medium-, and low-fluoride regions along with inter-group significant differences (P &#x2264; 0.05).<br><br>RESULTS: The comparison of IQ score showed that 35 (46.7%) participants from the high fluoride and 10 (13.3%) participants from the medium-fluoride areas had below average IQ. Further, it was noted that the lowest mean marks were obtained by the children in the high-fluoride region (13.9467) followed by those in medium (18.9467) and uppermost in least noted fluoride area (38.6087). However, gender-based intergroup comparison did not produce a significant relation with fluoride (P &#x2265; 0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Concentration of Fluoride in the ingested water was significantly associated with the IQ of children. It has also coined the proportional variability in mental output in accordance to the ingested fluoride level. As two sides of a coin, fluoride cannot be utterly blamed for a lower intelligence in a population; it puts forward a fact that intelligence is a multifactorial variable with a strategic role played by genetics and nutrition to develop cognitive and psychosomatic activities in an individual.}, }
@article {pmid29020746, year = {2017}, author = {Kole, K and Lindeboom, RGH and Baltissen, MPA and Jansen, PWTC and Vermeulen, M and Tiesinga, P and Celikel, T}, title = {Proteomic landscape of the primary somatosensory cortex upon sensory deprivation.}, journal = {GigaScience}, volume = {6}, number = {10}, pages = {1-10}, pmid = {29020746}, issn = {2047-217X}, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; *Proteomics ; Sensory Deprivation/*physiology ; Somatosensory Cortex/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Experience-dependent plasticity (EDP) powerfully shapes neural circuits by inducing long-lasting molecular changes in the brain. Molecular mechanisms of EDP have been traditionally studied by identifying single or small subsets of targets along the biochemical pathways that link synaptic receptors to nuclear processes. Recent technological advances in large-scale analysis of gene transcription and translation now allow systematic observation of thousands of molecules simultaneously. Here we employed label-free quantitative mass spectrometry to address experience-dependent changes in the proteome after sensory deprivation of the primary somatosensory cortex. Cortical column- and layer-specific tissue samples were collected from control animals, with all whiskers intact, and animals whose C-row whiskers were bilaterally plucked for 11-14 days. Thirty-three samples from cortical layers (L) 2/3 and L4 spanning across control, deprived, and first- and second-order spared columns yielded at least 10 000 peptides mapping to ∼5000 protein groups. Of these, 4676 were identified with high confidence, and >3000 were found in all samples. This comprehensive database provides a snapshot of the proteome after whisker deprivation, a protocol that has been widely used to unravel the synaptic, cellular, and network mechanisms of EDP. Complementing the recently made available transcriptome for identical experimental conditions (see the accompanying article by Kole et al.), the database can be used to (i) mine novel targets whose translation is modulated by sensory organ use, (ii) cross-validate experimental protocols from the same developmental time point, and (iii) statistically map the molecular pathways of cortical plasticity at a columnar and laminar resolution.}, }
@article {pmid29020745, year = {2017}, author = {Kole, K and Komuro, Y and Provaznik, J and Pistolic, J and Benes, V and Tiesinga, P and Celikel, T}, title = {Transcriptional mapping of the primary somatosensory cortex upon sensory deprivation.}, journal = {GigaScience}, volume = {6}, number = {10}, pages = {1-6}, pmid = {29020745}, issn = {2047-217X}, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; *Gene Expression ; Mice ; Sensory Deprivation/*physiology ; Sequence Analysis, RNA ; Somatosensory Cortex/*physiology ; Vibrissae/physiology ; }, abstract = {Experience-dependent plasticity (EDP) is essential for anatomical and functional maturation of sensory circuits during development. Although the principal synaptic and circuit mechanisms of EDP are increasingly well studied experimentally and computationally, its molecular mechanisms remain largely elusive. EDP can be readily studied in the rodent barrel cortex, where each "barrel column" preferentially represents deflections of its own principal whisker. Depriving select whiskers while sparing their neighbours introduces competition between barrel columns, ultimately leading to weakening of intracortical, translaminar (i.e., cortical layer (L)4-to-L2/3) feed-forward excitatory projections in the deprived columns. The same synapses are potentiated in the neighbouring spared columns. These experience-dependent alterations of synaptic strength are thought to underlie somatosensory map plasticity. We used RNA sequencing in this model system to uncover cortical-column and -layer specific changes on the transcriptome level that are induced by altered sensory experience. Column- and layer-specific barrel cortical tissues were collected from juvenile mice with all whiskers intact and mice that received 11-12 days of long whisker (C-row) deprivation before high-quality RNA was purified and sequenced. The current dataset entails an average of 50 million paired-end reads per sample, 75 base pairs in length. On average, 90.15% of reads could be uniquely mapped to the mm10 reference mouse genome. The current data reveal the transcriptional changes in gene expression in the barrel cortex upon altered sensory experience in juvenile mice and will help to molecularly map the mechanisms of cortical plasticity.}, }
@article {pmid29018253, year = {2017}, author = {Bakonyi, T and Erdélyi, K and Brunthaler, R and Dán, &#xc1; and Weissenböck, H and Nowotny, N}, title = {Usutu virus, Austria and Hungary, 2010-2016.}, journal = {Emerging microbes &amp; infections}, volume = {6}, number = {10}, pages = {e85}, pmid = {29018253}, issn = {2222-1751}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Austria/epidemiology ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/pathology/*virology ; Communicable Diseases, Emerging/epidemiology/*veterinary ; Epidemiological Monitoring ; *Flavivirus/classification/isolation &amp; purification ; Flavivirus Infections/epidemiology/pathology/*veterinary ; Genome, Viral ; Hungary/epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; Viral Nonstructural Proteins/genetics ; }, abstract = {Usutu virus (USUV, Flaviviridae) was first reported in Europe in Austria in 2001, where it caused wild bird (mainly blackbird) mortality until 2005. Since 2006 no further USUV cases were diagnosed in the country. However, the virus emerged in other European countries (Hungary, Italy, Switzerland, Spain, Germany and the Czech Republic) between 2005 and 2011. In 2016, widespread USUV-associated wild bird mortality was observed in Germany, France, Belgium and the Netherlands. In this study, we report the results of passive monitoring for USUV in Austria and Hungary between 2010 and 2016. In Hungary, USUV caused sporadic cases of wild bird mortality between 2010 and 2015 (altogether 18 diagnosed cases), whereas in summer and autumn 2016 the number of cases considerably increased to 12 (ten blackbirds, one Eurasian jay and one starling). In Austria, USUV was identified in two blackbirds in 2016. Phylogenetic analyses of coding-complete genomes and partial regions of the NS5 protein gene revealed that USUVs from Hungary between 2010 and 2015 are closely related to the virus that emerged in Austria in 2001 and in Hungary in 2005, while one Hungarian sequence from 2015 and all sequences from Hungary and Austria from 2016 clustered together with USUV sequences reported from Italy between 2009 and 2010. The results of the study indicate continuous USUV circulation in the region and exchange of USUV strains between Italy, Austria and Hungary.Emerging Microbes &amp;Infections (2017) 6, e85; doi:10.1038/emi.2017.72; published online 11 October 2017.}, }
@article {pmid28989768, year = {2017}, author = {Lambert, ML and Schiestl, M and Schwing, R and Taylor, AH and Gajdon, GK and Slocombe, KE and Seed, AM}, title = {Function and flexibility of object exploration in kea and New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {4}, number = {9}, pages = {170652}, pmid = {28989768}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {A range of non-human animals frequently manipulate and explore objects in their environment, which may enable them to learn about physical properties and potentially form more abstract concepts of properties such as weight and rigidity. Whether animals can apply the information learned during their exploration to solve novel problems, however, and whether they actually change their exploratory behaviour to seek functional information about objects have not been fully explored. We allowed kea (Nestor notabilis) and New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides) to explore sets of novel objects both before and after encountering a task in which some of the objects could function as tools. Following this, subjects were given test trials in which they could choose among the objects they had explored to solve a tool-use task. Several individuals from both species performed above chance on these test trials, and only did so after exploring the objects, compared with a control experiment with no prior exploration phase. These results suggest that selection of functional tools may be guided by information acquired during exploration. Neither kea nor crows changed the duration or quality of their exploration after learning that the objects had a functional relevance, suggesting that birds do not adjust their behaviour to explicitly seek this information.}, }
@article {pmid28987023, year = {2018}, author = {Hong, JY and Ko, EJ and Choi, SY and Li, K and Kim, AR and Park, JO and Kim, BJ}, title = {Efficacy and safety of a novel, soluble microneedle patch for the improvement of facial wrinkle.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {235-241}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.12426}, pmid = {28987023}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Adenosine/therapeutic use ; Aged ; Dermal Fillers/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Dermatologic Agents/therapeutic use ; Drug Therapy, Combination ; Elasticity/drug effects ; Eye ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Middle Aged ; Nasolabial Fold ; Needles/adverse effects ; Prospective Studies ; Rejuvenation ; Single-Blind Method ; *Skin Aging ; Skin Cream/therapeutic use ; Skin Physiological Phenomena/drug effects ; *Transdermal Patch/adverse effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Various kinds of functional cosmetics are on the market, although there are a variety of opinions concerning the actual effect. Transdermal microneedle patch has been introduced as a newly developed device for drug delivery through the skin.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to verify the face skin improvement effect and safety of a novel cosmetic microneedle patch.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 84 Korean females finished this prospective clinical trial. The subjects were divided into 3 groups: (1) soluble hyaluronic acid (HA) microneedle patch alone, (2) soluble HA microneedle patch plus adenosine wrinkle cream, and (3) adenosine wrinkle cream alone. The treatments were applied to the crow's feet and nasolabial fold wrinkle for 12&#xa0;weeks. The test areas were measured before treatment and at 4, 8, and 12&#xa0;weeks after use of the test product. At the completion of the testing period of the trial, the global assessment of efficacy and product preferences were surveyed from the subjects.<br><br>RESULTS: Combination treatment with wrinkle cream and microneedle patch significantly improved Merz scale for crow's feet and nasolabial folds, compared to the sole application of wrinkle cream or patch. Measurement on the crow's feet showed an overall improvement in all 3 groups, yielding no significant differences among the groups. No serious adverse effects were observed during the follow-up period.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Combination application of a soluble microneedle patch and wrinkle cream was an effective treatment in improving facial wrinkles, thus enhancing skin rejuvenation.}, }
@article {pmid28985619, year = {2017}, author = {Abbo, BG and Hulslander, LE and Goldade, DA}, title = {Determination of 20, 25-diazacholesterol in avian matrices by high performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry.}, journal = {Journal of chromatography. B, Analytical technologies in the biomedical and life sciences}, volume = {1065-1066}, number = {}, pages = {129-133}, doi = {10.1016/j.jchromb.2017.09.028}, pmid = {28985619}, issn = {1873-376X}, mesh = {Animals ; Azacosterol/*analysis ; *Birds ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid/*methods ; Contraceptive Agents/*analysis ; Limit of Detection ; Linear Models ; Liver/chemistry ; Pest Control ; Reproducibility of Results ; Solid Phase Extraction/methods ; Tandem Mass Spectrometry/*methods ; Tissue Distribution ; }, abstract = {Wildlife contraceptives are an emerging tool for minimizing human-wildlife conflicts. One promising avian contraceptive compound, 20,25-diazacholesterol (DAC), reduces fertility by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis. A reliable analytical method for DAC was required in support of its registration for use as a reproductive control agent in pest bird species. A liquid chromatographic method employing tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was developed for the analysis of tissue extracts following solid phase extraction clean-up. Tissues analyzed were whole body samples from crows, monk parakeets, and quails and liver samples from crows and quails. Excellent sensitivity and selectivity was afforded by tandem mass spectrometry. The method accuracy of DAC from various tissue samples fortified at parts-per-million (ppm) and parts-per-billion (ppb) concentrations was high (>90%) with excellent precision (<10% relative standard deviation). Lower limits of detection were excellent in all tissues types, ranging from 1 to 11ppb in whole body matrices and 9.9-34ppb in liver matrices.}, }
@article {pmid28978738, year = {2017}, author = {Ręk, P and Magrath, RD}, title = {Deceptive vocal duets and multimodal display in a songbird.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {284}, number = {1864}, pages = {}, pmid = {28978738}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Australian Capital Territory ; Female ; Male ; Songbirds/*physiology ; *Territoriality ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Many group-living animals cooperatively signal to defend resources, but what stops deceptive signalling to competitors about coalition strength? Cooperative-signalling species include mated pairs of birds that sing duets to defend their territory. Individuals of these species sometimes sing 'pseudo-duets' by mimicking their partner's contribution, but it is unknown if these songs are deceptive, or why duets are normally reliable. We studied pseudo-duets in Australian magpie-larks, Grallina cyanoleuca, and tested whether multimodal signalling constrains deception. Magpie-larks give antiphonal duets coordinated with a visual display, with each sex typically choosing a different song type within the duet. Individuals produced pseudo-duets almost exclusively during nesting when partners were apart, but the two song types were used in sequence rather than antiphonally. Strikingly, birds hid and gave no visual displays, implying deceptive suppression of information. Acoustic playbacks showed that pseudo-duets provoked the same response from residents as true duets, regardless of whether they were sequential or antiphonal, and stronger response than that to true duets consisting of a single song type. By contrast, experiments with robot models showed that songs accompanied by movements of two birds prompted stronger responses than songs accompanied by movements of one bird, irrespective of the number of song types or singers. We conclude that magpie-larks used deceptive pseudo-duets when partners were apart, and suppressed the visual display to maintain the subterfuge. We suggest that the visual component of many species' duets provides the most reliable information about the number of signallers and may have evolved to maintain honesty in duet communication.}, }
@article {pmid28974636, year = {2017}, author = {Maartens, A}, title = {An interview with Jayaraj Rajagopal.}, journal = {Development (Cambridge, England)}, volume = {144}, number = {19}, pages = {3389-3391}, doi = {10.1242/dev.158220}, pmid = {28974636}, issn = {1477-9129}, mesh = {Animals ; Developmental Biology/*history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Stem Cell Research ; }, abstract = {Jayaraj (Jay) Rajagopal is a Principal Investigator at the Center for Regenerative Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital and an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. A Howard Hughes Medical Institute Faculty Scholar, his lab works on the development and regeneration of the lung. He uses stem cell and animal models to develop novel insights that hopefully will provide inspiration for therapies to help treat human lung disease. He was awarded the Dr Susan Lim Award for Outstanding Young Investigator at the 2017 International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) meeting in Boston (MA,USA), where we met him to talk about how a fish tank started a life-long fascination with the lung, the transition to running his own lab, and his optimism for the future of both basic stem cell research and its clinical translation.}, }
@article {pmid28971040, year = {2017}, author = {Jo, SY and Hwang, JW and Pyun, SB}, title = {Relationship Between Cognitive Function and Dysphagia After Stroke.}, journal = {Annals of rehabilitation medicine}, volume = {41}, number = {4}, pages = {564-572}, pmid = {28971040}, issn = {2234-0645}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate the characteristics of cognitive deficits in patients with post-stroke dysphagia, and to analyze the relationships between cognitive dysfunction and severity of dysphagia in supratentorial stroke.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 55 patients with first-ever supratentorial lesion stroke were enrolled retrospectively, within 3 months of onset. We rated dysphagia from 0 (normal) to 4 (severe) using the dysphagia severity scale (DSS) through clinical examinations and videofluoroscopic swallowing studies (VFSS). The subjects were classified either as non-dysphagic (scale 0) or dysphagic (scale 1 to 4). We compared general characteristics, stroke severity and the functional scores of the two groups. We then performed comprehensive cognitive function tests and investigated the differences in cognitive performance between the two groups, and analyzed the correlation between cognitive test scores, DSS, and parameters of oral and pharyngeal phase.<br><br>RESULTS: Fugl-Meyer motor assessment, the Berg Balance Scale, and the Korean version of the Modified Barthel Index showed significant differences between the two groups. Cognitive test scores for the dysphagia group were significantly lower than the non-dysphagia group. Significant correlations were shown between dysphagia severity and certain cognitive subtest scores: visual span backward (p=0.039), trail making tests A (p=0.042) and B (p=0.002), and Raven progressive matrices (p=0.002). The presence of dysphagia was also significantly correlated with cognitive subtests, in particular for visual attention and executive attention (odds ratio [OR]=1.009; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.002-1.016; p=0.017). Parameters of premature loss were also significantly correlated with the same subtests (OR=1.009; 95% CI, 1.002-1.016; p=0.017).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that cognitive function is associated with the presence and severity of post-stroke dysphagia. Above all, visual attention and executive functions may have meaningful influence on the oral phase of swallowing in stroke patients with supratentorial lesions.}, }
@article {pmid28968822, year = {2017}, author = {McPhatter, LP and Su, T and Williams, G and Cheng, ML and Dhillon, M and Gerry, AC}, title = {Host-Feeding Patterns of Culex stigmatosoma (Diptera: Culicidae) in Southern California.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {54}, number = {6}, pages = {1750-1757}, doi = {10.1093/jme/tjx154}, pmid = {28968822}, issn = {1938-2928}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; California ; Cattle ; Cities ; *Culex ; Dogs ; Ecosystem ; Feeding Behavior ; Humans ; }, abstract = {Knowledge of the blood-feeding patterns exhibited by arthropod vectors is essential for understanding the complex dynamics of vector-borne disease transmission. Some species of mosquitoes belonging to the genus Culex have been implicated as having major roles in the transmission of arboviruses such as West Nile virus, Saint Louis encephalitis virus, and Western equine encephalitis virus. Although the host-feeding patterns for many of these Culex species are well studied, the host-feeding patterns of Culex stigmatosoma Dyar are relatively poorly studied, even though this species is suspected to be an important maintenance vector for West Nile virus and other arboviruses. In the current study, bloodmeals from 976 blood-engorged Cx. stigmatosoma, collected from 30 sites in southern California from 2009-2012, were processed for vertebrate host identification by nucleotide sequencing following polymerase chain reaction to amplify portions of the cytochrome oxidase I and cytochrome b genes of vertebrate animals. Vertebrate DNA was amplified, sequenced, and identified from a total of 647 Cx. stigmatosoma bloodmeals, revealing that 98.6% of bloodmeals were from birds, 1.2% from three mammal species, and a single bloodmeal was from a reptile species. In total, 40 different host species were identified. The greatest number of bloodmeals identified was from domestic chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus L.) (38% of bloodmeals), house sparrow (Passer domesticus L.) (23%), house finch (Haemorhous mexicanus Müller) (17%), American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos L.) (4%), and mourning dove (Zenaida macroura L.) (3%). However, chicken bloodmeals were identified almost entirely from a single site where mosquito collection devices were placed in the near vicinity of confined domestic chickens. The strongly ornithophilic feeding behavior shown in this study for Cx. stigmatosoma supports the hypothesis that this mosquito species may be an important maintenance (or endemic) vector for arboviruses that circulate among susceptible birds.}, }
@article {pmid28968179, year = {2017}, author = {Krawiec, M and Woźniak-Biel, A and Bednarski, M and Wieliczko, A}, title = {Antimicrobial Susceptibility and Genotypic Characteristic of Campylobacter spp. Isolates from Free-Living Birds in Poland.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {17}, number = {11}, pages = {755-763}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2017.2116}, pmid = {28968179}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*microbiology ; *Birds ; Campylobacter/*drug effects/*genetics ; Campylobacter Infections/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Poland/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Campylobacter spp. is the most commonly reported, bacterial cause of human foodborne infection worldwide. Commercial poultry and free-living birds are natural reservoirs of three particular species: Campylobacter jejuni, Campylobacter coli, and Campylobacter lari. The aim of this study was to determine the genotypic characteristics and antibiotic susceptibility of 43 Campylobacter strains, obtained from free-living birds, in Poland. In total, 700 birds were examined. The strains were isolated from 43 birds (6.14%) from the feces of 7 wild bird species: Mallard ducks Anas platyrhynchos (29 positive/121 tested), great cormorants Phalacrocorax carbo (5/77), velvet scoters Melanitta fusca (4/30), tawny owls Strix aluco (2/5), common buzzard Buteo buteo (1/3), rook Corvus frugilegus (1/6), and Eurasian tree sparrow Passer montanus (1/30). Thirty-eight (88.37%) of obtained strains belonged to C. jejuni and five (11.63%) to C. coli. Other 428 examined birds from different bird species were Campylobacter negative. The antimicrobial susceptibility to nine antimicrobials was also studied in investigated isolates of Campylobacter spp. Sixteen of the examined strains (37.21% of all positive samples) showed susceptibility to all of the nine antimicrobials. Moreover, the prevalence of selected virulence genes, such as flaA, cadF, ceuE, virB11, cdtA, cdtB, and cdtC were all analyzed. The virulence gene that was found most frequently in total number of Campylobacter strains was ceuE (72.10%) and other genes, such as flaA, cadF, cdtA, cdtB, and cdtC, were found in over 60% of all examined strains. Variable antimicrobial susceptibility and the presence of different virulence genes of examined strains, isolated from free-living birds, suggest that special attention should be given to wild birds and any potential approaches to the control of antibiotic-resistant Campylobacter should be discussed.}, }
@article {pmid28966011, year = {2017}, author = {Nic Lughadha, E and Bachman, SP and Govaerts, R}, title = {Plant States and Fates: Response to Pimm and Raven.}, journal = {Trends in ecology &amp; evolution}, volume = {32}, number = {12}, pages = {887-889}, doi = {10.1016/j.tree.2017.09.005}, pmid = {28966011}, issn = {1872-8383}, mesh = {*Plants ; }, }
@article {pmid28963599, year = {2017}, author = {Stanton, L and Davis, E and Johnson, S and Gilbert, A and Benson-Amram, S}, title = {Adaptation of the Aesop's Fable paradigm for use with raccoons (Procyon lotor): considerations for future application in non-avian and non-primate species.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {20}, number = {6}, pages = {1147-1152}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-017-1129-z}, pmid = {28963599}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; Female ; Male ; *Problem Solving ; Raccoons/*psychology ; Reward ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {To gain a better understanding of the evolution of animal cognition, it is necessary to test and compare the cognitive abilities of a broad array of taxa. Meaningful inter-species comparisons are best achieved by employing universal paradigms that standardize testing among species. Many cognitive paradigms, however, have been tested in only a few taxa, mostly birds and primates. One such example, known as the Aesop's Fable paradigm, is designed to assess causal understanding in animals using water displacement. To evaluate the universal effectiveness of the Aesop's Fable paradigm, we applied this paradigm to a previously untested taxon, the raccoon (Procyon lotor). We first trained captive raccoons to drop stones into a tube of water to retrieve a floating food reward. Next, we presented successful raccoons with objects that differed in the amount of water they displaced to determine whether raccoons could select the most functional option. Raccoons performed differently than corvids and human children did in previous studies of Aesop's Fable, and we found raccoons to be innovative in many aspects of this task. We suggest that raccoon performance in this paradigm reflected differences in tangential factors, such as behavior, morphology, and testing procedures, rather than cognitive deficiencies. We also present insight into previously undocumented challenges that should better inform future Aesop's Fable studies incorporating more diverse taxa.}, }
@article {pmid28953940, year = {2017}, author = {Lee, SI and Lee, H and Jablonski, PG and Choe, JC and Husby, M}, title = {Microbial abundance on the eggs of a passerine bird and related fitness consequences between urban and rural habitats.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {12}, number = {9}, pages = {e0185411}, pmid = {28953940}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Climate ; Colony Count, Microbial ; *Ecosystem ; Eggs/*microbiology ; Passeriformes/*microbiology/physiology ; Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction ; }, abstract = {Urban environments present novel and challenging habitats to wildlife. In addition to well-known difference in abiotic factors between rural and urban environments, the biotic environment, including microbial fauna, may also differ significantly. In this study, we aimed to compare the change in microbial abundance on eggshells during incubation between urban and rural populations of a passerine bird, the Eurasian Magpie (Pica pica), and examine the consequences of any differences in microbial abundances in terms of hatching success and nestling survival. Using real-time PCR, we quantified the abundances of total bacteria, Escherichia coli/Shigella spp., surfactin-producing Bacillus spp. and Candida albicans on the eggshells of magpies. We found that urban magpie eggs harboured greater abundances of E. coli/Shigella spp. and C. albicans before incubation than rural magpie eggs. During incubation, there was an increase in the total bacterial load, but a decrease in C. albicans on urban eggs relative to rural eggs. Rural eggs showed a greater increase in E. coli/Shigella spp. relative to their urban counterpart. Hatching success of the brood was generally lower in urban than rural population. Nestling survival was differentially related with the eggshell microbial abundance between urban and rural populations, which was speculated to be the result of the difference in the strength of the interaction among the microbes. This is the first demonstration that avian clutches in urban and rural populations differ in eggshell microbial abundance, which can be further related to the difference in hatching success and nestling survival in these two types of environments. We suggest that future studies on the eggshell microbes should investigate the interaction among the microbes, because the incubation and/or environmental factors such as urbanization or climate condition can influence the dynamic interactions among the microbes on the eggshells which can further determine the breeding success of the parents.}, }
@article {pmid28946631, year = {2017}, author = {Neary, J and Goodwin, SE and Cohen, LB and Neuman, MG}, title = {Alcohol Misuse Link to POEMS Syndrome in a Patient.}, journal = {Cancers}, volume = {9}, number = {10}, pages = {}, pmid = {28946631}, issn = {2072-6694}, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Previously called Crow-Fukase syndrome, POEMS syndrome is characterized by poly-neuropathy, osteo-sclerotic myeloma, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal plasma cell disorder, and skin changes. Extremely elevated levels of serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are characteristic of the syndrome. Chronic hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) infections can also be present in POEMS. The pathogenesis of the syndrome is not well understood. The link between chronic alcohol consumption and this malignant condition has not been reported until now. In addition, no previous study has evaluated the influence of cytokine and chemokines or viruses in the severity and evolution of POEMS.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: (1) to describe a heavy-alcohol user, who was diagnosed with POEMS; (2) to demonstrate the utility of quantitative measurement of serum levels of VEGF in the diagnosis of POEMS and the monitoring of therapeutic interventions; (3) to demonstrate that overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines is a characteristic of POEMS.<br><br>METHODS: We describe a case of a POEMS patient presenting HCV and who is a heavy drinker; we compare the serum levels of cytokines and chemokines between the POEMS patient with 80 patients with HCV, 12 healthy controls, and 80 individuals with alcoholic liver disease (ALD). We quantified (ELISA pg/mL) the levels of VEGF, Interferon gamma (IFN-&#x3b3;), Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-&#x3b1;), Regulated-upon-Activation Normal-T-cell-Expressed and presumably-Secreted (RANTES), and Nuclear Factor kappa-B (NF&#x3ba;B).<br><br>RESULTS: In POEMS patients, VEGF levels were elevated versus control or other diseases, TNF&#x3b1; levels were higher versus control, but lower when compared with HCV or ALD patients. VEGF levels in POEMS patients decreased with therapeutic intervention.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Chronic alcohol misuse can be a strong risk factor to rare malignancies such as POEMS syndrome. Extreme elevation of VEGF levels is diagnostic for POEMS syndrome, and should be followed to assess response to therapy. In addition, other comorbidities should be considered individually to ensure personalized therapeutic intervention.}, }
@article {pmid28940309, year = {2017}, author = {Gone, JP}, title = {"It Felt Like Violence": Indigenous Knowledge Traditions and the Postcolonial Ethics of Academic Inquiry and Community Engagement.}, journal = {American journal of community psychology}, volume = {60}, number = {3-4}, pages = {353-360}, doi = {10.1002/ajcp.12183}, pmid = {28940309}, issn = {1573-2770}, mesh = {Community Participation ; Disclosure/*ethics ; *Ethics, Research ; Humans ; *Indians, North American ; *Knowledge ; Psychology/*ethics ; Violence ; }, abstract = {In a 2014 presentation at an academic conference featuring an American Indian community audience, I critically engaged the assumptions and commitments of Indigenous Research Methodologies. These methodologies have been described as approaches and procedures for conducting research that stem from long-subjugated Indigenous epistemologies (or "ways of knowing"). In my presentation, I described a Crow Indian religious tradition known as a skull medicine as an example of an indigenous way of knowing, referring to a historical photograph of a skull medicine bundle depicted on an accompanying slide. This occasioned consternation among many in attendance, some of whom later asserted that it was unethical for me to have presented this information because of Indigenous cultural proscriptions against publicizing sacred knowledge and photographing sacred objects. This ethical challenge depends on enduring religious sensibilities in Northern Plains Indian communities, as embedded within a postcolonial political critique concerning the accession of sacred objects by Euro-American collectors during the early 20th century. I complicate these ethical claims by considering competing goods that are valued by community psychologists, ultimately acknowledging that the associated ethical challenge resists resolution in terms that would be acceptable to diverse constituencies.}, }
@article {pmid28931706, year = {2017}, author = {Zinman, B and Skyler, JS and Riddle, MC and Ferrannini, E}, title = {Diabetes Research and Care Through the Ages.}, journal = {Diabetes care}, volume = {40}, number = {10}, pages = {1302-1313}, doi = {10.2337/dci17-0042}, pmid = {28931706}, issn = {1935-5548}, mesh = {California ; Congresses as Topic ; Diabetes Mellitus/*diet therapy/*drug therapy ; Diet ; *Disease Management ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Hypoglycemic Agents/blood/therapeutic use ; Insulin/blood/therapeutic use ; *Research Design ; Societies, Medical ; }, abstract = {As has been well established, the Diabetes Care journal's most visible signature event is the Diabetes Care Symposium held each year during the American Diabetes Association's Scientific Sessions. Held this past year on 10 June 2017 in San Diego, California, at the 77th Scientific Sessions, this event has become one of the most attended sessions during the Scientific Sessions. Each year, in order to continue to have the symposium generate interest, we revise the format and content of this event. For this past year, our 6th annual symposium, I felt it was time to provide a comprehensive overview of our efforts in diabetes care to determine, first and foremost, how we arrived at our current state of management. I also felt the narrative needed to include the current status of management, especially with a focus toward cardiovascular disease, and finally, we wanted to ask what the future holds. Toward this goal, I asked four of the most noted experts in the world to provide their opinion on this topic. The symposium started with a very thoughtful presentation by Dr. Jay Skyler entitled "A Look Back as to How We Got Here." That was followed by two lectures on current concepts by Dr. Bernard Zinman entitled "Current Treatment Paradigms Today-How Well Are We Doing?" and by Dr. Matthew Riddle entitled "Evolving Concepts and Future Directions for Cardiovascular Outcomes Trials." The final lecture for the symposium was delivered by Dr. Ele Ferrannini and was entitled "What Does the Future Hold?" As always, a well-attended and well-received symposium is now the norm for our signature event and our efforts were rewarded by the enthusiasm of the attendees. This narrative summarizes the lectures held at the symposium.-William T. CefaluChief Scientific, Medical &amp; Mission Officer, American Diabetes Association.}, }
@article {pmid28929247, year = {2017}, author = {Kabadayi, C and Krasheninnikova, A and O'Neill, L and van de Weijer, J and Osvath, M and von Bayern, AMP}, title = {Are parrots poor at motor self-regulation or is the cylinder task poor at measuring it?.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {20}, number = {6}, pages = {1137-1146}, pmid = {28929247}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Female ; *Inhibition, Psychological ; Male ; Parrots/*physiology ; Psychomotor Performance ; Research Design ; *Self-Control ; }, abstract = {The ability to inhibit unproductive motor responses triggered by salient stimuli is a fundamental inhibitory skill. Such motor self-regulation is thought to underlie more complex cognitive mechanisms, like self-control. Recently, a large-scale study, comparing 36 species, found that absolute brain size best predicted competence in motor inhibition, with great apes as the best performers. This was challenged when three Corvus species (corvids) were found to parallel great apes despite having much smaller absolute brain sizes. However, new analyses suggest that it is the number of pallial neurons, and not absolute brain size per se, that correlates with levels of motor inhibition. Both studies used the cylinder task, a detour-reaching test where food is presented behind a transparent barrier. We tested four species from the order Psittaciformes (parrots) on this task. Like corvids, many parrots have relatively large brains, high numbers of pallial neurons, and solve challenging cognitive tasks. Nonetheless, parrots performed markedly worse than the Corvus species in the cylinder task and exhibited strong learning effects in performance and response times. Our results suggest either that parrots are poor at controlling their motor impulses, and hence that pallial neuronal numbers do not always correlate with such skills, or that the widely used cylinder task may not be a good measure of motor inhibition.}, }
@article {pmid28927634, year = {2017}, author = {Redshaw, J and Taylor, AH and Suddendorf, T}, title = {Flexible Planning in Ravens?.}, journal = {Trends in cognitive sciences}, volume = {21}, number = {11}, pages = {821-822}, doi = {10.1016/j.tics.2017.09.001}, pmid = {28927634}, issn = {1879-307X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; *Reward ; }, abstract = {Across two different contexts, Kabadayi and Osvath found that ravens preferentially selected items that could be used to obtain future rewards. Do these results demand a rethink of the evolution of flexible planning, or are there leaner alternative explanations for the performance of ravens?}, }
@article {pmid28925618, year = {2017}, author = {Oldham, KT}, title = {In memoriam: Jay L. Grosfeld, MD, FACS, champion for pediatric surgery patients.}, journal = {Bulletin of the American College of Surgeons}, volume = {102}, number = {1}, pages = {73-74}, pmid = {28925618}, issn = {0002-8045}, mesh = {General Surgery/*history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Pediatrics/*history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid28922382, year = {2017}, author = {Canestrari, D and Bolopo, D and Turlings, TCJ and Röder, G and Marcos, JM and Baglione, V}, title = {Formal comment to Soler et al.: Great spotted cuckoo nestlings have no antipredatory effect on magpie or carrion crow host nests in southern Spain.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {12}, number = {9}, pages = {e0184446}, pmid = {28922382}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Crows ; Nesting Behavior ; *Passeriformes ; Spain ; }, }
@article {pmid28918225, year = {2017}, author = {Ren, X and Schweizer, K and Wang, T and Chu, P and Gong, Q}, title = {On the relationship between executive functions of working memory and components derived from fluid intelligence measures.}, journal = {Acta psychologica}, volume = {180}, number = {}, pages = {79-87}, doi = {10.1016/j.actpsy.2017.09.002}, pmid = {28918225}, issn = {1873-6297}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Inhibition, Psychological ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The aim of the current study is to provide new insights into the relationship between executive functions and intelligence measures in considering the item-position effect observed in intelligence items. Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM) and Horn's LPS reasoning test were used to assess fluid intelligence which served as criterion in investigating the relationship between intelligence and executive functions. A battery of six experimental tasks measured the updating, shifting, and inhibition processes of executive functions. Data were collected from 205 university students. Fluid intelligence showed substantial correlations with the updating and inhibition processes and no correlation with the shifting process without considering the item-position effect. Next, the fixed-link model was applied to APM and LPS data separately to decompose them into an ability component and an item-position component. The results of relating the components to executive functions showed that the updating and shifting processes mainly contributed to the item-position component whereas the inhibition process was mainly associated with the ability component of each fluid intelligence test. These findings suggest that improvements in the efficiency of updating and shifting processes are likely to occur during the course of completing intelligence measures and inhibition is important for intelligence in general.}, }
@article {pmid28914409, year = {2018}, author = {Despinoy, F and Zemiti, N and Forestier, G and Sánchez, A and Jannin, P and Poignet, P}, title = {Evaluation of contactless human-machine interface for robotic surgical training.}, journal = {International journal of computer assisted radiology and surgery}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {13-24}, pmid = {28914409}, issn = {1861-6429}, mesh = {Gestures ; Humans ; Robotic Surgical Procedures/*education/methods ; *User-Computer Interface ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: Teleoperated robotic systems are nowadays routinely used for specific interventions. Benefits of robotic training courses have already been acknowledged by the community since manipulation of such systems requires dedicated training. However, robotic surgical simulators remain expensive and require a dedicated human-machine interface.<br><br>METHODS: We present a low-cost contactless optical sensor, the Leap Motion, as a novel control device to manipulate the RAVEN-II robot. We compare peg manipulations during a training task with a contact-based device, the electro-mechanical Sigma.7. We perform two complementary analyses to quantitatively assess the performance of each control method: a metric-based comparison and a novel unsupervised spatiotemporal trajectory clustering.<br><br>RESULTS: We show that contactless control does not offer as good manipulability as the contact-based. Where part of the metric-based evaluation presents the mechanical control better than the contactless one, the unsupervised spatiotemporal trajectory clustering from the surgical tool motions highlights specific signature inferred by the human-machine interfaces.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Even if the current implementation of contactless control does not overtake manipulation with high-standard mechanical interface, we demonstrate that using the optical sensor complete control of the surgical instruments is feasible. The proposed method allows fine tracking of the trainee's hands in order to execute dexterous laparoscopic training gestures. This work is promising for development of future human-machine interfaces dedicated to robotic surgical training systems.}, }
@article {pmid28905251, year = {2017}, author = {Brecht, KF and Wagener, L and Ostojić, L and Clayton, NS and Nieder, A}, title = {Comparing the face inversion effect in crows and humans.}, journal = {Journal of comparative physiology. A, Neuroethology, sensory, neural, and behavioral physiology}, volume = {203}, number = {12}, pages = {1017-1027}, pmid = {28905251}, issn = {1432-1351}, support = {NI 618/7-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Facial Recognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Humans show impaired recognition of faces that are presented upside down, a phenomenon termed face inversion effect, which is thought to reflect the special relevance of faces for humans. Here, we investigated whether a phylogenetically distantly related avian species, the carrion crow, with similar socio-cognitive abilities to human and non-human primates, exhibits a face inversion effect. In a delayed matching-to-sample task, two crows had to differentiate profiles of crow faces as well as matched controls, presented both upright and inverted. Because crows can discriminate humans based on their faces, we also assessed the face inversion effect using human faces. Both crows performed better with crow faces than with human faces and performed worse when responding to inverted pictures in general compared to upright pictures. However, neither of the crows showed a face inversion effect. For comparative reasons, the tests were repeated with human subjects. As expected, humans showed a face-specific inversion effect. Therefore, we did not find any evidence that crows-like humans-process faces as a special visual stimulus. Instead, individual recognition in crows may be based on cues other than a conspecific's facial profile, such as their body, or on processing of local features rather than holistic processing.}, }
@article {pmid28901322, year = {2017}, author = {Hou, Y and Zhao, X and Chen, J and Zhou, J and Chen, W and Mao, H and Chen, R}, title = {Effects of Macrothele raven venom on intrarenal invasion and metastasis of H22 liver cancer cells in mice.}, journal = {Journal of cancer research and therapeutics}, volume = {13}, number = {4}, pages = {725-729}, doi = {10.4103/jcrt.JCRT_1286_16}, pmid = {28901322}, issn = {1998-4138}, mesh = {Animals ; Apoptosis/drug effects ; Arachnida/chemistry ; Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/*drug therapy/genetics/pathology ; Cell Line, Tumor ; Cell Proliferation/*drug effects ; Humans ; Liver Neoplasms/*drug therapy/pathology ; Mice ; Neoplasm Invasiveness/pathology ; Neoplasm Metastasis ; Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases/genetics ; Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt/genetics ; Signal Transduction/drug effects ; TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases/genetics ; Venoms/*administration &amp; dosage/chemistry ; Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Extrahepatic metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its insensitivity to chemotherapy are the main causes of poor prognosis in patients with HCC. This study investigated the anti-cancer effect of Macrothele raveni venom on intrarenal metastatic HCC.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Subrenal capsule xenograft model of HCC was established by inoculation of H22 liver cancer cells.<br><br>RESULTS: The general health, histology, and molecular changes were observed after administering 10 times of different dose of Macrothele raven venom injections. A volume of 0.8 &#x3bc;g/ml and 1.0 &#x3bc;g/ml of Macrothele raven venom significantly improved general health status in mice with subrenal capsule HCC tumors. Hematoxylin and eosin staining showed that Macrothele raven venom dose-dependently reduced invasion and metastasis of liver cancer cells in the kidney. Immunohistochemistry and real-time polymerase chain reaction showed that Macrothele raven venom injection dose-dependently decreased PI3K mRNA and protein, Akt protein, and mTOR mRNA expression, but increased Bad mRNA and protein expression in the kidney with H22 tumor cell invasion. 0.8 &#x3bc;g/ml is the most effective dose for the treatment of intrarenal metastatic HCC.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Macrothele raven venom dose-dependently inhibits invasion and metastasis of intrarenal metastatic HCC through inhibition of PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling and increase of Bad expression.}, }
@article {pmid28899382, year = {2017}, author = {Schmid, S and Fachet, K and Dinkel, A and Mackenstedt, U and Woog, F}, title = {Carrion crows (Corvus corone) of southwest Germany: important hosts for haemosporidian parasites.}, journal = {Malaria journal}, volume = {16}, number = {1}, pages = {369}, pmid = {28899382}, issn = {1475-2875}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; *Crows ; DNA, Protozoan/analysis ; Female ; Germany/epidemiology ; Haemosporida/classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; Male ; *Phylogeny ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Prevalence ; Protozoan Infections, Animal/*epidemiology/parasitology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Avian malaria parasites (Plasmodium spp.) and other Haemosporida (Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon spp.) form a diverse group of vector-transmitted blood parasites that are abundant in many bird families. Recent studies have suggested that corvids may be an important host for Plasmodium spp. and Leucocytozoon spp.<br><br>METHODS: To investigate the diversity of Haemosporida of resident carrion crows (Corvus corone) and Eurasian Magpies (Pica pica) in southwest Germany, 100 liver samples of corvids were examined using a nested PCR method to amplify a 1063&#xa0;bp fragment of the haemosporidian mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. The phylogenetic relationship of parasite lineages obtained from these birds was inferred.<br><br>RESULTS: Haemosporidian DNA was detected in 85 carrion crows (89.5%) and in all five Eurasian Magpies. The most abundant parasite genus was Leucocytozoon with a prevalence of 85.3% (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;95). 65.3% of the samples (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;62) contained multiple infections. Thirteen haemosporidian lineages were isolated from the corvid samples. Female carrion crows were more likely infected with haemosporidian parasites than males.<br><br>DISCUSSION: This study provides the first insight into the diversity of haemosporidian parasites of corvids in Germany. Very high prevalences were found and based on the applied diagnostic method also a high amount of multiple infections could be detected. Due to the high diversity of haemosporidian parasites found in corvids, they seem to be excellent model organisms to test species deliminations in haemosporidian parasites.}, }
@article {pmid28895948, year = {2017}, author = {Marley, SA and Erbe, C and Kent, CPS}, title = {Underwater recordings of the whistles of bottlenose dolphins in Fremantle Inner Harbour, Western Australia.}, journal = {Scientific data}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {170126}, pmid = {28895948}, issn = {2052-4463}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bottle-Nosed Dolphin ; *Vocalization, Animal ; Western Australia ; }, abstract = {Dolphins use frequency-modulated whistles for a variety of social functions. Whistles vary in their characteristics according to context, such as activity state, group size, group composition, geographic location, and ambient noise levels. Therefore, comparison of whistle characteristics can be used to address numerous research questions regarding dolphin populations and behaviour. However, logistical and economic constraints on dolphin research have resulted in data collection biases, inconsistent analytical approaches, and knowledge gaps. This Data Descriptor presents an acoustic dataset of bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops aduncus) whistles recorded in the Fremantle Inner Harbour, Western Australia. Data were collected using an autonomous recorder and analysed using a range of acoustic measurements. Acoustic data review identified 336 whistles, which were subsequently measured for six key characteristics using Raven Pro software. Of these, 164 'high-quality' whistles were manually measured to provide an additional five acoustic characteristics. Digital files of individual whistles and corresponding measurements make this dataset available to researchers to address future questions regarding variations within and between dolphin communities.}, }
@article {pmid28892233, year = {2017}, author = {Choi, SY and Kwon, HJ and Ahn, GR and Ko, EJ and Yoo, KH and Kim, BJ and Lee, C and Kim, D}, title = {Hyaluronic acid microneedle patch for the improvement of crow's feet wrinkles.}, journal = {Dermatologic therapy}, volume = {30}, number = {6}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1111/dth.12546}, pmid = {28892233}, issn = {1529-8019}, mesh = {Adult ; Cosmetic Techniques/adverse effects/*instrumentation ; Dermal Fillers/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Equipment Design ; Esthetics ; Female ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Injections, Intradermal ; Middle Aged ; *Miniaturization ; *Needles ; Patient Satisfaction ; *Rejuvenation ; Republic of Korea ; *Skin Aging ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {Hyaluronic acid (HA) has an immediate volumizing effect, due to its strong water-binding potential, and stimulates fibroblasts, causing collagen synthesis, with short- and long-term effects on wrinkle improvement. We investigated the efficacy and safety of HA microneedle patches for crow's feet wrinkles. Using a randomized spilt-face design, we compared microneedle patches with a topical application containing the same active ingredients. We enrolled 34 Korean female subjects with mild to moderate crow's feet wrinkles. The wrinkle on each side of the subject's face was randomly assigned to a HA microneedle patch or HA essence application twice a week for 8 weeks. Efficacy was evaluated at weeks 2, 4, and 8. Skin wrinkles were measured as average roughness using replica and PRIMOS. Skin elasticity was assessed using a cutometer. Two independent blinded dermatologists evaluated the changes after treatment using the global visual wrinkle assessment score. Subjects assessed wrinkles using the subject global assessment score. Skin wrinkles were significantly reduced and skin elasticity significantly increased in both groups, although improvement was greater in the patch group at week 8 after treatment. In the primary and cumulative skin irritation tests, the HA microneedle patch did not induce any skin irritation. The HA microneedle patch is more effective than the HA essence for wrinkle improvement and is a safe and convenient without skin irritation.}, }
@article {pmid28892186, year = {2017}, author = {MacCormick, MRA and Kilkenny, JJ and Walker, M and Zur Linden, A and Singh, A}, title = {Investigating the impact of innate dexterity skills and visuospatial aptitude on the performance of baseline laparoscopic skills in veterinary students.}, journal = {Veterinary surgery : VS}, volume = {46}, number = {8}, pages = {1175-1186}, doi = {10.1111/vsu.12682}, pmid = {28892186}, issn = {1532-950X}, mesh = {Adult ; *Aptitude ; Clinical Competence/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; Humans ; Laparoscopy/statistics &amp; numerical data/*veterinary ; Male ; Ontario ; Pilot Projects ; *Schools, Veterinary ; Students, Health Occupations/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Video Games/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine if manual dexterity and visuospatial skills can be used to predict baseline laparoscopic surgery skills in veterinary students.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: Pilot study.<br><br>METHODS: Veterinary students (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;45) from years 1-4 volunteered for this study. An hour-long electronic questionnaire was completed by participants. The first section was used to collect demographics and information about prior nonsurgical experiences. The second section included 3 tests of visuospatial skills, including the Purdue Visualization of Rotations Test, Mental Rotations Test, and Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices Test. Multiple tests were administered to assess innate dexterity, including the grooved pegboard test, indirect and direct zigzag tracking tests, and the 3Dconnexion proficiency test. Each dexterity test was performed once with the left hand and once with the right hand. The order of task performance was randomized. Basic laparoscopic skills were assessed using the validated fundamentals of laparoscopic surgery (FLS) peg transfer task.<br><br>RESULTS: There was an association between left-handed grooved pegboard scores (95% CI -10046.36 to -1636.53, P-value&#x2009;=&#x2009;.008) and left-handed indirect zigzag tracking task (95% CI -35.78 to -8.20, P-value&#x2009;=&#x2009;.003) with FLS peg transfer scores. Individuals who reported playing videogames achieved higher scores on the FLS peg transfer task than those without videogame experience (95% CI 583.59 to 3509.97, P-value&#x2009;=&#x2009;.007).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that dexterity was a better predictor of baseline laparoscopic skills than visuospatial skills in veterinary students.}, }
@article {pmid28886467, year = {2017}, author = {Zhang, H and Yan, C and Zhang, X and Shi, J and Zhu, B}, title = {The relationship between fluid intelligence and sustained inattentional blindness in 7-to-14-year-old children.}, journal = {Consciousness and cognition}, volume = {55}, number = {}, pages = {172-178}, doi = {10.1016/j.concog.2017.08.003}, pmid = {28886467}, issn = {1090-2376}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention/*physiology ; Child ; Child Development/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Motion Perception/physiology ; Pattern Recognition, Visual/physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Previous researches have shown that people with higher fluid intelligence are more likely to detect the unexpected stimuli. The current study systematically explored the relationship between fluid intelligence and sustained inattentional blindness in children. In Experiment 1, we measured one hundred and seventy-nine 7-to-14-year-old children's fluid intelligence and sustained inattentional blindness. The results showed that fluid intelligence was negatively related to sustained inattentional blindness only in 7-to-8-year-old children. In Experiment 2, we explored sustained inattentional blindness in sixty children with high Raven's scores. We found that compared with children who have average Raven's scores aged 11-to-12 years old, children with high Raven's scores were unable to better avoid sustained inattentional blindness. In general, this research implies that the relation between fluid intelligence and sustained inattentional blindness is weak. Fluid intelligence could predict sustained inattentional blindness only when children do not have enough perceptual capacities to complete the primary task.}, }
@article {pmid28878059, year = {2017}, author = {Laumer, IB and Bugnyar, T and Reber, SA and Auersperg, AMI}, title = {Can hook-bending be let off the hook? Bending/unbending of pliant tools by cockatoos.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {284}, number = {1862}, pages = {}, pmid = {28878059}, issn = {1471-2954}, support = {J 3404/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; P 29075/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; P 29084/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Cockatoos ; *Learning ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The spontaneous crafting of hook-tools from bendable material to lift a basket out of a vertical tube in corvids has widely been used as one of the prime examples of animal tool innovation. However, it was recently suggested that the animals' solution was hardly innovative but strongly influenced by predispositions from habitual tool use and nest building. We tested Goffin's cockatoo, which is neither a specialized tool user nor a nest builder, on a similar task set-up. Three birds individually learned to bend hook tools from straight wire to retrieve food from vertical tubes and four subjects unbent wire to retrieve food from horizontal tubes. Pre-experience with ready-made hooks had some effect but was not necessary for success. Our results indicate that the ability to represent and manufacture tools according to a current need does not require genetically hardwired behavioural routines, but can indeed arise innovatively from domain general cognitive processing.}, }
@article {pmid28877312, year = {2017}, author = {Korgavkar, K and Lee, KC and Weinstock, MA and , }, title = {Effect of Topical Fluorouracil Cream on Photodamage: Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial.}, journal = {JAMA dermatology}, volume = {153}, number = {11}, pages = {1142-1146}, pmid = {28877312}, issn = {2168-6084}, mesh = {Administration, Cutaneous ; Dermatologic Agents/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Ear ; Face ; Female ; Fluorouracil/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Skin Cream ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {IMPORTANCE: Photoaging, which is premature skin aging caused by long-term UV exposure, is of aesthetic concern to many patients.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of topical fluorouracil, 5%, cream on photoaging using validated photonumeric scales.<br><br>The Veterans Affairs Keratinocyte Carcinoma Chemoprevention Trial was a randomized clinical trial of 932 US veterans with a recent history of 2 or more keratinocyte carcinomas performed from September 30, 2011, through June 30, 2014, to assess the chemopreventive effects of a standard course of topical fluorouracil. Photographs were taken at baseline and at numerous time points for up to 4 years. In our secondary analysis, 2 independent dermatologists graded these photographs using 4 validated photonumeric scales. A total of 3042 photographs from 281 participants randomized to apply topical fluorouracil or placebo were evaluated at baseline, 6 months, 12 months, and 18 months using 4 photonumeric scales (Griffiths scale, Allergan forehead lines scale, melomental folds scale, and crow's feet scale). Data analysis was performed from November 1, 2016, to January 1, 2017.<br><br>INTERVENTIONS: Participants were randomized to apply topical fluorouracil, 5%, cream or a vehicle control cream to the face and ears twice daily for 2 to 4 weeks for a total of 28 to 56 doses.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Effect of a standard course of fluorouracil on the extent of photodamage as measured using 4 photonumeric scales.<br><br>RESULTS: The study population was predominantly male (274 [97.5%]) and white (281 [100%]), with a mean (SD) age of 71.5 (0.57) years. No statistically significant changes were found in photodamage between baseline and 6 months (Griffiths scale: &#x3c7;2&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.01, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.93; Allergan forehead lines scale: &#x3c7;2&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.18, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.67; melomental fold scale: &#x3c7;2&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.03, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.87; crow's feet scale: &#x3c7;2&#x2009;=&#x2009;2.41, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.12), 12 months (Griffiths scale: &#x3c7;2&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.39, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.24; Allergan forehead lines scale: &#x3c7;2&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.64, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.43; melomental fold scale: &#x3c7;2&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.12, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.73; crow's feet scale: &#x3c7;2&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.07, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.30), and 18 months (Griffiths scale: &#x3c7;2&#x2009;=&#x2009;3.11, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.08; Allergan forehead lines scale: &#x3c7;2&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.89, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.34; melomental fold scale: &#x3c7;2&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.64, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.20; crow's feet scale: &#x3c7;2&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.46, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.50).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: This study did not demonstrate improvement in photoaging with a standard course of topical fluorouracil, 5%, cream, a finding that may be attributable to a true lack of effect in photodamage or limitations of the photonumeric scales in capturing the effect. The development of photonumeric scales that include manifestations of photoaging other than rhytids, such as lentigines, hyperpigmentation, and telangiectasias, should be considered.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION: clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00847912.}, }
@article {pmid28874242, year = {2017}, author = {Viuff, SL and Plenge, U and Belhage, B and Boushel, R and Koester, T}, title = {Effects of low-dose recombinant human erythropoietin treatment on cognitive performance.}, journal = {Danish medical journal}, volume = {64}, number = {9}, pages = {}, pmid = {28874242}, issn = {2245-1919}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Cognition Disorders/drug therapy ; Double-Blind Method ; Erythropoietin/*administration &amp; dosage ; Female ; Healthy Volunteers ; Humans ; Male ; Recombinant Proteins/*administration &amp; dosage ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: High-dose recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEpo) has been shown to improve cognitive performance in both healthy volunteers and in patients suffering from diseases affecting the brain. The aim of this study was to examine whether administration of low-dose and even micro-dose rhEpo improves cognitive performance in healthy volunteers.<br><br>METHODS: We enrolled 25 healthy volunteers in a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study to receive either low-dose rhEpo (n = 8, 60 IU/kg/week), micro-dose rhEpo (n = 9, 20 IU/kg/week), or saline (n = 8) for four weeks. Two cognitive performance-tests, the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices (Raven) and the Number Finder (NUFI), were performed during the first and last day of the study period. Semi-structured interviews were conducted weekly and were coded according to a scale.<br><br>RESULTS: Subjects receiving micro-dose rhEpo improved significantly measured by the Raven score (p = 0.04), and subjects receiving low-dose rhEpo treatment improved significantly measured by the NUFI score (p = 0.047), whereas no improvement was found in experienced cognitive performance in any of the groups. We found no significant difference in either Raven, NUFI or self-reported results between the groups.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In this small study, we found no significant effect of low-dose or micro-dose rhEpo on visual attention, cognitive performance in complex cognitive tasks or self-experienced cognitive performance compared with placebo.<br><br>FUNDING: The Aase and Ejnar Danielsen's Foundation. Danish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Higher Education.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03093506.}, }
@article {pmid28874011, year = {2017}, author = {Thiemann, TC and Woodward, DL and Fang, Y and Ryan, BM and Nelms, BM and Scott, JJ and Reisen, WK}, title = {Abundance and Bloodfeeding Patterns of Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in an Oak Woodland on the Eastern Slope of the Northern Coast Range of California.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {54}, number = {5}, pages = {1344-1353}, doi = {10.1093/jme/tjx078}, pmid = {28874011}, issn = {1938-2928}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; California ; Culicidae/enzymology/genetics/*physiology ; Electron Transport Complex IV/genetics ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; *Food Chain ; Forests ; Insect Proteins/genetics ; *Mammals ; Population Dynamics ; Seasons ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {The abundance and bloodfeeding patterns of mosquitoes was studied from 2008 to 2010 at an 18 ha. oak woodland in Lake County, CA. Host-seeking females were collected weekly from sunset to sunrise by paired dry-ice-baited CDC style traps, whereas resting females were aspirated from paired walk-in red boxes. Sequences of the COI gene amplified from bloodmeals from engorged resting females were used to identify the bloodmeal hosts. Aedes sierrensis (Ludlow) and Aedes increpitus Dyar complex mosquitoes were univoltine, although the timing of emergence and abundance varied temporally and seemed weather dependent. Abundance of both Anopheles franciscanus McCracken and Anopheles freeborni Aitken peaked in mid to late summer. Females of both genera bloodfed primarily on mule deer and black-tailed jackrabbits, and few fed on either dogs or humans that were consistently present within the woodland. In contrast, multivoltine Culex tarsalis Coquillett and Culex stigmatosoma Dyar were abundant throughout summer, especially from July to September. Both Culex species bloodfed on a wide variety of avian hosts, with most bloodmeals originating from California scrub-jay, wild turkey, oak titmouse, and house finch. Culex tarsalis fed on proportionately more mammals as summer progressed, peaking at 33% in September.}, }
@article {pmid28873035, year = {2017}, author = {DeCarlo, C and Omar, AH and Haroun, MI and Bigler, L and Bin Rais, MN and Abu, J and Omar, AR and Mohammed, HO}, title = {Potential Reservoir and Associated Factors for West Nile Virus in Three Distinct Climatological Zones.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {17}, number = {10}, pages = {709-713}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2016.2098}, pmid = {28873035}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*virology ; Climate ; Disease Reservoirs/*veterinary ; Malaysia/epidemiology ; Mammals/*virology ; Qatar/epidemiology ; United States/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; Zoonoses ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) is a zoonotic single-strand RNA arbovirus (family Flaviviridae: Flavivirus), transmitted among avian hosts in enzootic cycles by a mosquito vector. The virus has a significant disease effect on humans and equines when it bridges into a cycle with various sequelae with epidemic potential. This study was carried out to identify the potential spectrum of WNV hosts in three geographic areas with climatologically distinct features: Malaysia, Qatar, and the United States of America (U.S.). Serum samples were collected from avian and mammal species suspected to be reservoirs for the virus at these areas in a cross-sectional epidemiologic study. The samples were tested for the presence of antibodies against the virus using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data on putative risk factors were also collected and analyzed for significance of association with seropositivity using the logistic regression analysis. Among the tested avian and mammalian species, raccoons had the highest seroconversion rate (54%) followed by crows (30%), horses (27%), camels (10%), other avian species (7%), and canine species (3%). It was almost twice as likely to detect seroconversion among these mammalian and avian species in the fall in comparison to other seasons of the year. Only mammalian and avian species and seasons of the year were significantly associated with the likelihood of seroconversion to WNV when we controlled for other factors in the multivariate analysis. Our data from the U.S. showed that raccoons and camels are susceptible to infection by the virus and may play a role in the perpetuation of endemic foci for the disease.}, }
@article {pmid28861014, year = {2017}, author = {Franco, MDG and Beja, MJ and Candeias, A and Santos, N}, title = {Emotion Understanding, Social Competence and School Achievement in Children from Primary School in Portugal.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {1376}, pmid = {28861014}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {This study analyzes the relationship between emotion understanding and school achievement in children of primary school, considering age, gender, fluid intelligence, mother's educational level and social competence. In this study participated 406 children of primary school. The instruments used were the Test of Emotion Comprehension, Colored Progressive Matrices of Raven, Socially Action and Interpersonal Problem Solving Scale. The structural equation model showed the relationship between the emotion understanding and school performance depends on a mediator variable that in the context of the study was designated social competence. Age appear as an explanatory factor of the differences found, the mother's educational level only predicts significantly social emotional competence, fluid intelligence is a predictor of emotion understanding, school achievement and social emotional competence. Regarding the influence of sex, emotional understanding does not emerge as a significant predictor of social emotional competence in girls or boys. Multiple relationships between the various factors associated with school achievement and social emotional competence are discussed as well as their implications in promoting child development and school success.}, }
@article {pmid28857604, year = {2017}, author = {Schwing, R and Weber, S and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Kea (Nestor notabilis) decide early when to wait in food exchange task.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {131}, number = {4}, pages = {269-276}, doi = {10.1037/com0000086}, pmid = {28857604}, issn = {1939-2087}, support = {//Austrian Science Fund (FWF)/ ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Delay Discounting/*physiology ; Female ; Food ; Male ; Psittaciformes/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The ability to forego an immediate reward in favor of a bigger or better one at a later point has been linked with advanced cognitive skills, such as impulse control and forward-planning, and can be assessed by the classic food exchange paradigm. While the ability to perform in such tasks has long been regarded as an exclusive trait of humans and some mammals, that is, primates and dogs, in recent years some bird species have been found to perform similarly as primates. Here we test 10 captive kea (Nestor notabilis), using a food exchange paradigm standardized in earlier experiments, but adding the use of a container to hold the initial item. The subjects reached waiting times of up to 160 s. They also showed significantly different results depending on the difference in the preference level for the presented food items, as well as clearly nonrandom waiting times, displaying forward-planning and economic evaluation of the situation at hand. As in most other species, results were markedly better when exchanging for quality as opposed to quantity. These results provide further evidence for temporal discounting in birds and fit in with the data gained on corvids and parrots in recent years. (PsycINFO Database Record}, }
@article {pmid28857332, year = {2017}, author = {Crossley, MS and Chen, YH and Groves, RL and Schoville, SD}, title = {Landscape genomics of Colorado potato beetle provides evidence of polygenic adaptation to insecticides.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {26}, number = {22}, pages = {6284-6300}, doi = {10.1111/mec.14339}, pmid = {28857332}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; Coleoptera/*genetics ; Genes, Insect ; *Genetics, Population ; Genomics ; Genotype ; Insecticide Resistance/*genetics ; *Multifactorial Inheritance ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; Spatial Analysis ; Wisconsin ; }, abstract = {The ability of insect pests to rapidly and repeatedly adapt to insecticides has long challenged entomologists and evolutionary biologists. Since Crow's seminal paper on insecticide resistance in 1957, new data and insights continue to emerge that are relevant to the old questions about how insecticide resistance evolves: such as whether it is predominantly mono- or polygenic, and evolving from standing vs. de novo genetic variation. Many studies support the monogenic hypothesis, and current management recommendations assume single- or two-locus models. But inferences could be improved by integrating data from a broader sample of pest populations and genomes. Here, we generate evidence relevant to these questions by applying a landscape genomics framework to the study of insecticide resistance in a major agricultural pest, Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say). Genome-environment association tests using genomic variation from 16 populations spanning gradients of landscape variables associated with insecticide exposure over time revealed 42 strong candidate insecticide resistance genes, with potentially overlapping roles in multiple resistance mechanisms. Measurements of resistance to a widely used insecticide, imidacloprid, among 47 L. decemlineata populations revealed heterogeneity at a small (2 km) scale and no spatial signature of origin or spread throughout the landscape. Analysis of nucleotide diversity suggested candidate resistance loci have undergone varying degrees of selective sweeps, often maintaining similar levels of nucleotide diversity to neutral loci. This study suggests that many genes are involved in insecticide resistance in L. decemlineata and that resistance likely evolves from both de novo and standing genetic variation.}, }
@article {pmid28847742, year = {2017}, author = {Fausto, F and Cuevas, E and Valdivia, A and González, A}, title = {A global optimization algorithm inspired in the behavior of selfish herds.}, journal = {Bio Systems}, volume = {160}, number = {}, pages = {39-55}, doi = {10.1016/j.biosystems.2017.07.010}, pmid = {28847742}, issn = {1872-8324}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Crows/physiology ; Insecta/physiology ; *Mass Behavior ; *Predatory Behavior ; }, abstract = {In this paper, a novel swarm optimization algorithm called the Selfish Herd Optimizer (SHO) is proposed for solving global optimization problems. SHO is based on the simulation of the widely observed selfish herd behavior manifested by individuals within a herd of animals subjected to some form of predation risk. In SHO, individuals emulate the predatory interactions between groups of prey and predators by two types of search agents: the members of a selfish herd (the prey) and a pack of hungry predators. Depending on their classification as either a prey or a predator, each individual is conducted by a set of unique evolutionary operators inspired by such prey-predator relationship. These unique traits allow SHO to improve the balance between exploration and exploitation without altering the population size. To illustrate the proficiency and robustness of the proposed method, it is compared to other well-known evolutionary optimization approaches such as Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Artificial Bee Colony (ABC), Firefly Algorithm (FA), Differential Evolution (DE), Genetic Algorithms (GA), Crow Search Algorithm (CSA), Dragonfly Algorithm (DA), Moth-flame Optimization Algorithm (MOA) and Sine Cosine Algorithm (SCA). The comparison examines several standard benchmark functions, commonly considered within the literature of evolutionary algorithms. The experimental results show the remarkable performance of our proposed approach against those of the other compared methods, and as such SHO is proven to be an excellent alternative to solve global optimization problems.}, }
@article {pmid28845548, year = {2018}, author = {Mazzarello, V and Ferrari, M and Bulla, A and Piu, G and Montella, A}, title = {Antiwrinkle effect of topical adhesive pads on crow's feet: How long does the effect last for?.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {17}, number = {3}, pages = {484-490}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.12395}, pmid = {28845548}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Adhesives ; Adult ; *Elasticity ; Eye ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Patient Satisfaction ; Prospective Studies ; Single-Blind Method ; *Skin Aging ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Adhesive pads should reduce the action of the local muscle contraction on the skin leading to a decrease in the depth of existing wrinkles and the formation of new dynamic wrinkles.<br><br>AIM OF THE WORK: This study aims at assessing the antiwrinkles action of adhesive pads during time, and the temporary improvement of facial skin appearance by reducing the vision of linear wrinkles and improving skin elasticity.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: Thirty-nine subjects participated to a placebo-controlled study. In the short-term test, the measurements were taken 15, 30, and 60&#xa0;minutes following 30&#xa0;minutes application of the product; in the long-term test, the measurements were taken after wearing pads every night for 4&#xa0;weeks. The roughness parameter of the skin surface was calculated by using a profilometry software 3D MEX[&#xae;] .<br><br>RESULTS: In the short- and long-term tests, analyzing the average of the elastomeric measurements, no significant change was observed in any of the parameters analyzed after 15, 30, and 60&#xa0;minutes. The adhesive pad decreased significantly all roughness skin parameters 15&#xa0;minutes after short-term application and until 60&#xa0;minutes after long-term application. These changes did not occur in the contralateral untreated zone.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The use of topical adhesive pads improves wrinkles in the crow's feet area in the first hour after use. However, patient self-evaluation indicated that the use of topical adhesive pads for 3&#xa0;weeks may offer subjective improvement in crow's feet zone over a 2&#xa0;hour period. Topical adhesive pads are safe to use and tolerable for most users.}, }
@article {pmid28828271, year = {2017}, author = {Meijer, HJM and Awe Due, R and Sutikna, T and Saptomo, W and Jatmiko,  and Wasisto, S and Tocheri, MW and Mayr, G}, title = {Late Pleistocene songbirds of Liang Bua (Flores, Indonesia); the first fossil passerine fauna described from Wallacea.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {e3676}, pmid = {28828271}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Passerines (Aves: Passeriformes) dominate modern terrestrial bird communities yet their fossil record is limited. Liang Bua is a large cave on the Indonesian island of Flores that preserves Late Pleistocene-Holocene deposits (∼190 ka to present day). Birds are the most diverse faunal group at Liang Bua and are present throughout the stratigraphic sequence.<br><br>METHODS: We examined avian remains from the Late Pleistocene deposits of Sector XII, a 2 &#xd7;&#xa0;2 m area excavated to about 8.5 m depth. Although postcranial passerine remains are typically challenging to identify, we found several humeral characters particularly useful in discriminating between groups, and identified 89 skeletal elements of passerines.<br><br>RESULTS: At least eight species from eight families are represented, including the Large-billed Crow (Corvus cf. macrorhynchos), the Australasian Bushlark (Mirafra javanica), a friarbird (Philemon sp.), and the Pechora Pipit (Anthus cf. gustavi).<br><br>DISCUSSION: These remains constitute the first sample of fossil passerines described in Wallacea. Two of the taxa no longer occur on Flores today; a large sturnid (cf. Acridotheres) and a grassbird (Megalurus sp.). Palaeoecologically, the songbird assemblage suggests open grassland and tall forests, which is consistent with conditions inferred from the non-passerine fauna at the site. Corvus cf. macrorhynchos, found in the Homo floresiensis-bearing layers, was likely part of a scavenging guild that fed on carcasses of Stegodon florensis insularis alongside vultures (Trigonoceps sp.), giant storks (Leptoptilos robustus), komodo dragons (Varanus komodoensis), and probably H. floresiensis as well.}, }
@article {pmid28821812, year = {2017}, author = {Balakhonov, D and Rose, J}, title = {Crows Rival Monkeys in Cognitive Capacity.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {8809}, pmid = {28821812}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Cognition ; *Crows ; Fixation, Ocular ; *Haplorhini ; Macaca mulatta ; }, abstract = {The present study compares the 'bandwidth of cognition' between crows and primates. Working memory is the ability to maintain and manipulate information over short periods of time - a core component of cognition. The capacity of working memory is tightly limited, in humans correlated with individual intelligence and commonly used synonymously with cognitive capacity. Crows have remarkable cognitive skills and while birds and mammals share neural principles of working memory, its capacity has not been tested in crows. Here we report the performance of two carrion crows on a working memory paradigm adapted from a recent experiment in rhesus monkeys. Capacity of crows is remarkably similar to monkeys and estimated at about four items. In both species, the visual hemifields show largely independent capacity. These results show that crows, like primates evolved a high-capacity working memory that reflects the result of convergent evolution of higher cognitive abilities in both species.}, }
@article {pmid28813080, year = {2017}, author = {Luz, CL and Moura, MCDS and Becker, KK and Teixeira, RAA and Voos, MC and Hasue, RH}, title = {The relationship between motor function, cognition, independence and quality of life in myelomeningocele patients.}, journal = {Arquivos de neuro-psiquiatria}, volume = {75}, number = {8}, pages = {509-514}, doi = {10.1590/0004-282X20170088}, pmid = {28813080}, issn = {1678-4227}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Distribution ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/*psychology ; Disability Evaluation ; Female ; Humans ; Hydrocephalus/*complications ; Independent Living ; Male ; Meningomyelocele/*psychology ; Motor Skills/*physiology ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Quality of Life/*psychology ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Motor function, cognition, functional independence and quality of life have been described in myelomeningocele patients, but no study has investigated their relationships. We aimed to investigate the relationships between motor function, cognition, functional independence, quality of life, age, and lesion level in myelomeningocele patients, and investigate the influence of hydrocephalus on these variables. We assessed 47 patients with the Gross Motor Function Measure (motor function), Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (cognition), Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (functional independence) and the Autoquestionnaire Qualité de vie Enfant Imagé (quality of life). Spearman's correlation tests determined relationships between the variables. The Friedman ANOVAs determined the influence of hydrocephalus. Motor function was strongly related to mobility and lesion level, and moderately related to cognition, self-care and social function. Cognition and quality of life were moderately related to functional independence. Age correlated moderately with functional independence and quality of life. Hydrocephalus resulted in poorer motor/cognitive outcomes and lower functional independence.}, }
@article {pmid28810480, year = {2019}, author = {Troncone, A and Chianese, A and Zanfardino, A and Cascella, C and Confetto, S and Perrone, L and Iafusco, D}, title = {Nonverbal intelligence and scholastic performance in children with type 1 diabetes.}, journal = {Journal of health psychology}, volume = {24}, number = {2}, pages = {229-239}, doi = {10.1177/1359105317715093}, pmid = {28810480}, issn = {1461-7277}, mesh = {*Achievement ; Adolescent ; Blood Glucose/metabolism ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/blood/*psychology/therapy ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Italy ; Male ; Retrospective Studies ; }, abstract = {This study examined nonverbal intelligence and scholastic achievement in children with type 1 diabetes. In a retrospective case-control study, 69 children (35 males) ages 5-10 years with type 1 diabetes and 69 healthy controls matched to patients by age, gender and socioeconomic status were compared according to their performance on Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices and their scholastic grades. No differences in nonverbal intelligence and grades were observed between children with type 1 diabetes and healthy control subjects. Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices scores inversely correlated with duration of illness both in children with early onset of type 1 diabetes and poor metabolic control. Possible explanations of the results and implications are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid28808192, year = {2017}, author = {Zhang, J and Hou, W and Feng, S and Chen, X and Wang, H}, title = {Classification of facial wrinkles among Chinese women.}, journal = {Journal of biomedical research}, volume = {31}, number = {2}, pages = {108-115}, pmid = {28808192}, issn = {1674-8301}, abstract = {It is generally recognized that Caucasians and Asians have different skin aging features. The aim of this study was to develop a facial wrinkle grading scale for Chinese women. Standard photographs were taken of 242 Chinese women. Six sets of 0 to 9 wrinkle scales with reference photographs and descriptions were selected, including grading scales for resting and hyperkinetic crow's feet, frontalis lines, glabellar frown lines, and nasolabial folds. To identify the scale by objective quantitative measurement, skin surface measurements from the Visioscan[®] VC98 were used. To test the reliability and validity of our wrinkle scale, a multi-rater consensus method was used. A double-blind, randomized, vehicle-controlled 12-week study was conducted to use this clinical photo-score to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Centella triterpenes cream[®] in treating crow's feet. A newly developed 10-point photographic and descriptive scale emerged from this study. The final atlas of these photographs contained a total of 6 sets with 10 pictures each. From 0 to 9, surface evaluation of smoothness (SEsm) parametric measurements decreased progressively, indicating that the scale increased inversely. Weighted kappa coefficients for intra-assessor were between 0.75-0.87. The overall Kendall's coefficient is 0.86 on the first rating and 0.87 on the second rating. Thirty-six volunteers were recruited and 35 subjects completed a 12-week trial. Clinical photo-score by investigator showed a significant difference (P<0.05) between the treatment side and control side after 4 weeks. Use of these scales in clinical settings to evaluate facial wrinkles in Asians individuals is recommended.}, }
@article {pmid28804468, year = {2017}, author = {Maes, E and Vanderoost, E and D'Hooge, R and De Houwer, J and Beckers, T}, title = {Individual Difference Factors in the Learning and Transfer of Patterning Discriminations.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {1262}, pmid = {28804468}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {In an associative patterning task, some people seem to focus more on learning an overarching rule, whereas others seem to focus on acquiring specific relations between the stimuli and outcomes involved. Building on earlier work, we further investigated which cognitive factors are involved in feature- vs. rule-based learning and generalization. To this end, we measured participants' tendency to generalize according to the rule of opposites after training on negative and positive patterning problems (i.e., A+/B+/AB- and C-/D-/CD+), their tendency to attend to global aspects or local details of stimuli, their systemizing disposition and their score on the Raven intelligence test. Our results suggest that while intelligence might have some influence on patterning learning and generalization, visual processing style and systemizing disposition do not. We discuss our findings in the light of previous observations on patterning.}, }
@article {pmid28783933, year = {2017}, author = {Yoshino, Y and Mori, T and Yoshida, T and Toyota, Y and Shimizu, H and Iga, JI and Nishitani, S and Ueno, SI}, title = {Improvement of Visuo-spatial Function Assessed by Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices in Dementia with Lewy Bodies by Donepezil Treatment.}, journal = {Clinical psychopharmacology and neuroscience : the official scientific journal of the Korean College of Neuropsychopharmacology}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {243-247}, pmid = {28783933}, issn = {1738-1088}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Donepezil is used to improve cognitive impairment of dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). Visuo-spatial dysfunction is a well-known symptom of DLB. Non-verbal Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) were used to assess both visual perception and reasoning ability in DLB subjects treated with donepezil.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty-one DLB patients (mean age, 78.7&#xb1;4.5 years) were enrolled. RCPM assessment was performed at the time of starting donepezil and within one year after starting donepezil.<br><br>RESULTS: There were significant improvements of RCPM in the total scores between one year donepezil treatment (p=0.013), in both Set A score (p=0.002) and Set AB score (p=0.015), but trend in the Set B score (p=0.083).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Donepezil is useful for improving visuo-spatial impairment in DLB, but not for problem-solving impairment.}, }
@article {pmid28782396, year = {2018}, author = {Kociszewska-Najman, B and Szpotanska-Sikorska, M and Mazanowska, N and Wielgos, M and Pietrzak, B}, title = {The comparison of intelligence levels of children born to kidney or liver transplant women with children of healthy mothers.}, journal = {The journal of maternal-fetal &amp; neonatal medicine : the official journal of the European Association of Perinatal Medicine, the Federation of Asia and Oceania Perinatal Societies, the International Society of Perinatal Obstetricians}, volume = {31}, number = {23}, pages = {3160-3165}, doi = {10.1080/14767058.2017.1365131}, pmid = {28782396}, issn = {1476-4954}, mesh = {Case-Control Studies ; Chi-Square Distribution ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Immunosuppressive Agents/adverse effects ; Infant ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; *Kidney Transplantation/statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Liver Transplantation/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Pregnancy ; Risk Assessment ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pregnancy after transplantation is associated with high risk of complications and prenatal exposure to immunosuppressants. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the intellectual development of children born to women after organ transplantation.<br><br>AIMS: A comparison of intelligence levels in 78 children of kidney or liver transplant women of 78 children born to healthy mothers. The assessment of intellectual level in children was conducted by psychologists and evaluated using age-adjusted intelligence tests (Psyche Cattell Infant Intelligence Scale, Terman-Merril Intelligence Scale or the Scales of Raven's Progressive Matrices).<br><br>RESULTS: No significant differences in the distribution of the quotient of intelligence between children born to kidney and liver transplant women were noted (Chi[2]&#x2009;=&#x2009;5.037; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;.284). Also no differences in the distribution of intelligence levels were noted between the children of transplanted and healthy mothers in infants and toddlers (Chi[2]&#x2009;=&#x2009;3.125; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;.537); preschool (Chi[2]&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.440; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;.692), and school age children (Chi[2]&#x2009;=&#x2009;4.079; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;.395).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The intellectual development of children of post-transplant women is similar to the general population. These results provide information on the low risk of intellectual disability in children of transplanted mothers and may improve counseling on the planning of pregnancy in this group of women.}, }
@article {pmid28778500, year = {2017}, author = {Fogli, A}, title = {[Temporal rejuvenation].}, journal = {Annales de chirurgie plastique et esthetique}, volume = {62}, number = {5}, pages = {449-460}, doi = {10.1016/j.anplas.2017.05.007}, pmid = {28778500}, issn = {1768-319X}, mesh = {Aging ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Face/anatomy &amp; histology ; Humans ; Rejuvenation ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {The temporal region has imprecise limits in the young patient. During the aging process, it becomes individualized with the appearance of a temporal fossa, the temporal, orbital and zygomatic bone margins, the ptosis of the lateral part of the brow and the appearance of the wrinkles of the crow's foot. As this area frame the look, it should be taken into consideration during the clinical examination as well as the facial and cervical stages. The rejuvenation techniques are numerous, nuanced and gradual. As long as the eyebrow ptosis is not evident and the distance of the eyebrows unaltered, the volumizing techniques and the botulinum toxin can respond effectively and harmoniously to the patients' demand. Then the surgical techniques of temporal and brow liftings must be considered and coupled with the techniques of lipostructure that are more and more practiced. It should be noted that the demand for temporal rejuvenation is increasing and precedes the demand of cervicofacial rejuvenation. This underlines the importance of this region both in terms of preventing or at least slowing down the process than in terms of curing the stigma of aging.}, }
@article {pmid28777941, year = {2017}, author = {Alison, MR}, title = {Cholangiocytes: No Longer Cinderellas to the Hepatic Regenerative Response.}, journal = {Cell stem cell}, volume = {21}, number = {2}, pages = {159-160}, doi = {10.1016/j.stem.2017.07.002}, pmid = {28777941}, issn = {1875-9777}, mesh = {Hepatocytes ; Humans ; Liver ; *Liver Diseases ; *Liver Regeneration ; Stem Cells ; }, abstract = {Biliary ductal cells proliferate from the portal areas of chronically damaged livers, but their significance to regeneration has been controversial. A recent article in Nature by Raven et al. (2017) now shows that blocking hepatocyte replication is essential for the hepatic differentiation of ductular cells after liver damage.}, }
@article {pmid28776480, year = {2018}, author = {Spaccavento, S and Cafforio, E and Cellamare, F and Colucci, A and Di Palma, A and Falcone, R and Craca, A and Loverre, A and Nardulli, R and Glueckauf, RL}, title = {Italian adaptation of the functional outcome questionnaire - aphasia: initial psychometric evaluation.}, journal = {Disability and rehabilitation}, volume = {40}, number = {24}, pages = {2925-2930}, doi = {10.1080/09638288.2017.1362042}, pmid = {28776480}, issn = {1464-5165}, mesh = {Adult ; *Aphasia/diagnosis/psychology/rehabilitation ; Caregivers/psychology ; Communication ; Female ; Humans ; Italy ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Outcome Assessment, Health Care/*methods ; Psychometrics/*methods ; *Quality of Life ; Reproducibility of Results ; Stroke/*psychology ; Stroke Rehabilitation/*methods ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Translations ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Italian version of Functional Outcome Questionnaire - Aphasia.<br><br>METHODS: Two hundred and five persons with stroke-related aphasia and right hemiparesis who received ongoing assistance from a family caregiver were assessed using the Functional Outcome Questionnaire - Aphasia, Aachener Aphasie Test, Token Test, Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, Functional Independence Measure (FIM), Functional Assessment Measure (FAM), and Quality of Life Questionnaire for Aphasics (QLQA). The Functional Outcome Questionnaire - Aphasia was translated into the Italian language using a translation and back-translation method. Reliability and construct validity of the Functional Outcome Questionnaire - Aphasia were evaluated.<br><br>RESULTS: The Italian version of the Functional Outcome Questionnaire - Aphasia showed good internal consistency and test-retest reliability for the overall scale (&#x3b1;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.98; ICC&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.95) and subscales (&#x3b1;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.89 for the communicating basic needs (CBN), &#x3b1;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.92 for the making routine requests (MRR), &#x3b1;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.96 for the communicating new information (CNI), &#x3b1;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.93 for the attention/other communication skills (AO); ICC&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.95 for CBN, ICC&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.96 for MRR, ICC&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.97 for CNI and ICC&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.92 for AO). Significant correlations were found between the Functional Outcome Questionnaire - Aphasia and Token Test, QLQA, Aachener Aphasie Test scores, and FAM linguistic scores, indicating good convergent validity. Low correlations were found between Functional Outcome Questionnaire - Aphasia and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices and FIM motor scores, showing good discriminant validity.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The overall findings of this study supported the reliability and construct validity of the Italian version of the Functional Outcome Questionnaire - Aphasia. This measure holds considerable promise in assessing the functional outcomes of aphasia rehabilitation in Italian-speaking persons with aphasia. Implications for Rehabilitation Functional Outcome Questionnaire - Aphasia is a reliable and valid questionnaire in assessing functional communication of Italian-speaking people with aphasia. This measure provides critical information about people with aphasia's functional and pragmatic communication in home and community settings, contributing significantly to overall quality of life. Since the use of measures of functional communication is recommended in the clinical evaluation of language disease, the Italian version of Functional Outcome Questionnaire - Aphasia may be effective in tailoring rehabilitation treatment to the presenting communication problems of people with aphasia and their caregivers.}, }
@article {pmid28771477, year = {2017}, author = {Aguillon, SM and Fitzpatrick, JW and Bowman, R and Schoech, SJ and Clark, AG and Coop, G and Chen, N}, title = {Deconstructing isolation-by-distance: The genomic consequences of limited dispersal.}, journal = {PLoS genetics}, volume = {13}, number = {8}, pages = {e1006911}, pmid = {28771477}, issn = {1553-7404}, support = {R01 GM108779/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Genetic Variation ; *Genetics, Population ; Genomics ; Genotype ; Male ; Microsatellite Repeats/*genetics ; Passeriformes/*genetics/physiology ; *Population Density ; Reproductive Isolation ; }, abstract = {Geographically limited dispersal can shape genetic population structure and result in a correlation between genetic and geographic distance, commonly called isolation-by-distance. Despite the prevalence of isolation-by-distance in nature, to date few studies have empirically demonstrated the processes that generate this pattern, largely because few populations have direct measures of individual dispersal and pedigree information. Intensive, long-term demographic studies and exhaustive genomic surveys in the Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) provide an excellent opportunity to investigate the influence of dispersal on genetic structure. Here, we used a panel of genome-wide SNPs and extensive pedigree information to explore the role of limited dispersal in shaping patterns of isolation-by-distance in both sexes, and at an exceedingly fine spatial scale (within ~10 km). Isolation-by-distance patterns were stronger in male-male and male-female comparisons than in female-female comparisons, consistent with observed differences in dispersal propensity between the sexes. Using the pedigree, we demonstrated how various genealogical relationships contribute to fine-scale isolation-by-distance. Simulations using field-observed distributions of male and female natal dispersal distances showed good agreement with the distribution of geographic distances between breeding individuals of different pedigree relationship classes. Furthermore, we built coalescent simulations parameterized by the observed dispersal curve, population density, and immigration rate, and showed how incorporating these extensions to Malécot's theory of isolation-by-distance allows us to accurately reconstruct observed sex-specific isolation-by-distance patterns in autosomal and Z-linked SNPs. Therefore, patterns of fine-scale isolation-by-distance in the Florida Scrub-Jay can be well understood as a result of limited dispersal over contemporary timescales.}, }
@article {pmid28767009, year = {2018}, author = {Costello, KA}, title = {A no-man's-land of sex: Reading Stephen Gordon and "her" critics.}, journal = {Journal of lesbian studies}, volume = {22}, number = {2}, pages = {165-184}, doi = {10.1080/10894160.2017.1342457}, pmid = {28767009}, issn = {1540-3548}, mesh = {Female ; *Gender Identity ; History, 20th Century ; Homosexuality, Female/history/*psychology ; Humans ; *Literature, Modern ; Psychological Theory ; }, abstract = {One of the most read novels of lesbian, transgender, and queer criticism, Radclyffe Hall's novel The Well of Loneliness (1928) has given rise to numerous and contradictory interpretations of the protagonist Stephen Gordon's complex relationship to her body. Some have argued that she is a historically specific example of female masculinity, others that she is a lesbian who wishes she were more feminine, and others still that she is a prototypical transsexual character. Focusing on the exemplary essays by Jack Halberstam, Teresa de Lauretis, and Jay Prosser, I argue that the coexistence of mutually exclusive interpretations of Stephen Gordon's relationship to her femaleness suggests that the novel is, in fact, a demand to readers to unmoor identity from sex and to recognize what I call "sexual indeterminacy." Lesbian, transgender, and queer theory's tendency to elide the literariness of literary objects and their reliance on critique as the primary mode of reading and argumentation have made it impossible for critics to see that the novel is explicitly about what cannot be settled.}, }
@article {pmid28762195, year = {2017}, author = {Kraft, FL and Forštová, T and Utku Urhan, A and Exnerová, A and Brodin, A}, title = {No evidence for self-recognition in a small passerine, the great tit (Parus major) judged from the mark/mirror test.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {20}, number = {6}, pages = {1049-1057}, pmid = {28762195}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Cognition ; Female ; Male ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Recognition, Psychology ; Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Self-recognition is a trait presumed to be associated with high levels of cognition and something previously considered to be exclusive to humans and possibly apes. The most common test of self-recognition is the mark/mirror test of whether an animal can understand that it sees its own reflection in a mirror. The usual design is that an animal is marked with a colour spot somewhere on the body where the spot can only be seen by the animal by using a mirror. Very few species have passed this test, and among birds, only magpies have been affirmatively demonstrated to pass it. In this study, we tested great tits (Parus major), small passerines, that are known for their innovative foraging skills and good problem-solving abilities, in the mirror self-recognition test. We found no indication that they have any ability of this kind and believe that they are unlikely to be capable of this type of self-recognition.}, }
@article {pmid28761365, year = {2017}, author = {Oe, M and Sakai, S and Yoshida, H and Okado, N and Kaneda, H and Masuda, Y and Urushibata, O}, title = {Oral hyaluronan relieves wrinkles: a double-blinded, placebo-controlled study over a 12-week period.}, journal = {Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {267-273}, pmid = {28761365}, issn = {1178-7015}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hyaluronan (HA) has critical moisturizing property and high water retention capacity especially for human skin. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of oral intake of HA.<br><br>METHODS: The mean molecular weight (MW) of HA is 2 k and 300 k. Sixty Japanese male and female subjects aged 22-59 years who presented with crow's feet wrinkles were randomly assigned to the HA 2 k or HA 300 k at 120 mg/day or the placebo group. The subjects were administered HA at a rate of 120 mg/day or a placebo for 12 weeks. The skin wrinkles were evaluated by image analysis of skin wrinkle replicas, and their skin condition was evaluated using a questionnaire survey.<br><br>RESULTS: During the study period, the HA groups showed better level of the whole sulcus volume ratio, wrinkle area ratio, and wrinkle volume ratio than the placebo group. After 8 weeks of ingestion, the HA 300 k group showed significantly diminished wrinkles compared with the placebo group. Skin luster and suppleness significantly improved after 12 weeks in all groups compared with the baseline.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results suggest that oral HA (both HA 2 k and HA 300 k) inhibits skin wrinkles and improves skin condition.}, }
@article {pmid28756236, year = {2017}, author = {Tamba, M and Caminiti, A and Prosperi, A and Desprès, P and Lelli, D and Galletti, G and Moreno, A and Paternoster, G and Santi, A and Licata, E and Lecollinet, S and Gelmini, L and Rugna, G and Procopio, A and Lavazza, A}, title = {Accuracy estimation of an indirect ELISA for the detection of West Nile Virus antibodies in wild birds using a latent class model.}, journal = {Journal of virological methods}, volume = {248}, number = {}, pages = {202-206}, doi = {10.1016/j.jviromet.2017.07.010}, pmid = {28756236}, issn = {1879-0984}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Antibodies, Viral/*blood ; Antigens, Viral/immunology ; Bayes Theorem ; Bird Diseases/*diagnosis/immunology/virology ; Birds/virology ; Cross Reactions ; Culicidae/virology ; Encephalitis Viruses, Japanese/immunology ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay/methods/*veterinary ; Flavivirus/immunology ; Neutralization Tests/methods/*veterinary ; West Nile Fever/diagnosis/immunology/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/*immunology ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) and Usutu virus (USUV), genus Flavivirus, are members of the Japanese encephalitis virus antigenic complex, and are maintained primarily in an enzootic cycle between mosquitoes and birds. WNV is zoonotic, and poses a threat to public health, especially in relation to blood transfusion. Serosurveillance of wild birds is suitable for early detection of WNV circulation, although concerns remain to be addressed as regards i) the type of test used, whether ELISA, virus neutralization test (VNT), plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT), ii) the reagents (antigens, revealing antibodies), iii) the different bird species involved, and iv) potential cross-reactions with other Flaviviruses, such as USUV. The authors developed an indirect IgG ELISA with pan-avian specificity using EDIII protein as antigen and a monoclonal antibody (mAb 1A3) with broad reactivity for avian IgG. A total of 140 serum samples were collected from juvenile European magpies (Pica pica) in areas where both WNV and USUV were co-circulating. The samples were then tested using this in-house ELISA and VNT in parallel. Estimation of test accuracy was performed using different Bayesian two latent class models. At a cut-off set at an optical density percentage (OD%) of 15, the ELISA showed a posterior median of diagnostic sensitivity (DSe) of 88% (95%PCI: 73-99%) and a diagnostic specificity (DSp) of 86% (95%PCI: 68-99%). At this cut-off, ELISA and VNT (cut-off 1/10) performances were comparable: DSe=91% (95%PCI: 79-99%), and DSp=77% (95%PCI: 59-98%). With the cut-off increased to 30 OD%, the ELISA DSe dropped to 78% (95%PCI: 52-99%), and the DSp rose to 94% (95%PCI: 83-100%). In field conditions, the cut-off that yields the best accuracy for the ELISA appears to correspond to 15 OD%. In areas where other Flaviviruses are circulating, however, it might be appropriate to raise the cut-off to 30 OD% in order to achieve higher specificity and reduce the detection of seropositive birds infected by other Flaviviruses, such as USUV.}, }
@article {pmid28750832, year = {2017}, author = {Clark, CM and Lawlor-Savage, L and Goghari, VM}, title = {Functional brain activation associated with working memory training and transfer.}, journal = {Behavioural brain research}, volume = {334}, number = {}, pages = {34-49}, doi = {10.1016/j.bbr.2017.07.030}, pmid = {28750832}, issn = {1872-7549}, support = {//CIHR/Canada ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Brain/diagnostic imaging/*physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/physiology ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Neuronal Plasticity ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Reaction Time ; Transfer, Psychology/*physiology ; }, abstract = {While behavioural trials of working memory (WM) training have received much attention in recent years, a lesser explored parallel approach is functional neuroimaging. A small literature has suggested a complex time course for functional activation pattern changes following WM training (i.e. not simply increasing or decreasing due to training); however, no study to date has examined such neuroplastic effects in both the training task (dual n-back) and the fluid intelligence transfer task to which the training is purported to transfer (Raven's Matrices). This study investigated neural correlates of WM training in healthy young adults randomized to six weeks of WM training, or an active control condition (processing speed training) with a pre- and post-training fMRI design. Results indicated significant reductions in activation for the WM trained group in key WM-task related areas for trained WM tasks after training compared to the processing speed active control group. The same pattern of training related decreases in activation for the WM trained group was not observed for the transfer task, which is consistent with null results for all cognitive outcomes of the present trial. The observed pattern of results suggests that repetitive practice with a complex task does indeed lead to neuroplastic processes that very likely represent the reduced demand for attentional control while sub-components of the task become more routinized with practice. We suggest that future research investigate neural correlates of WM training in populations for which WM itself is impaired and/or behavioural trials of WM training have returned more promising results.}, }
@article {pmid28746271, year = {2017}, author = {de Maio, M and Swift, A and Signorini, M and Fagien, S and , }, title = {Facial Assessment and Injection Guide for Botulinum Toxin and Injectable Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: Focus on the Upper Face.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {140}, number = {2}, pages = {265e-276e}, doi = {10.1097/PRS.0000000000003544}, pmid = {28746271}, issn = {1529-4242}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Dermal Fillers/*administration &amp; dosage ; Eyebrows/anatomy &amp; histology ; Face/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Forehead/anatomy &amp; histology ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Injections ; Practice Guidelines as Topic ; }, abstract = {Techniques for the administration of injectable fillers and neuromodulators for facial aesthetic rejuvenation and enhancement continue to evolve. As the number of physicians with limited experience in providing aesthetic treatments expands, the need for guidance and training from more experienced injectors has become apparent. The use of a slow, careful, and methodical injection technique is imperative in all treatment settings and for all facial areas. Constant attention to local anatomy, particularly arteries, veins, and nerve bundles, is critical for minimizing complications. This first article of a three-part series addresses techniques and recommendations for aesthetic treatment of the upper face. Traditionally, the upper face has been considered a basic area for treatment with neuromodulators but an advanced area for treatment with fillers. Injectable fillers may be used for temple volumization, eyebrow shaping, and forehead contouring. Neuromodulators are well suited for diminishing the appearance of dynamic facial lines such as forehead, glabellar, and crow's feet lines, and eyebrow lifting and eye-aperture widening. These techniques may be used independently or together, sequentially or concurrently, to address rejuvenation of individual or multiple facial regions. Overall, this series provides a practical framework of techniques for physicians who desire to perform safe and effective aesthetic treatments using a multimodal approach.}, }
@article {pmid28736607, year = {2017}, author = {Chiodo, L and Majerus, S and Mottron, L}, title = {Typical versus delayed speech onset influences verbal reporting of autistic interests.}, journal = {Molecular autism}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {35}, pmid = {28736607}, issn = {2040-2392}, support = {//CIHR/Canada ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Asperger Syndrome/diagnosis/physiopathology/psychology ; *Autistic Disorder/diagnosis/physiopathology/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; *Language Development Disorders/diagnosis/physiopathology/psychology ; Male ; *Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The distinction between autism and Asperger syndrome has been abandoned in the DSM-5. However, this clinical categorization largely overlaps with the presence or absence of a speech onset delay which is associated with clinical, cognitive, and neural differences. It is unknown whether these different speech development pathways and associated cognitive differences are involved in the heterogeneity of the restricted interests that characterize autistic adults.<br><br>METHOD: This study tested the hypothesis that speech onset delay, or conversely, early mastery of speech, orients the nature and verbal reporting of adult autistic interests. The occurrence of a priori defined descriptors for perceptual and thematic dimensions were determined, as well as the perceived function and benefits, in the response of autistic people to a semi-structured interview on their intense interests. The number of words, grammatical categories, and proportion of perceptual/thematic descriptors were computed and compared between groups by variance analyses. The participants comprised 40 autistic adults grouped according to the presence (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;20) or absence (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;20) of speech onset delay, as well as 20 non-autistic adults, also with intense interests, matched for non-verbal intelligence using Raven's Progressive Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: The overall nature, function, and benefit of intense interests were similar across autistic subgroups, and between autistic and non-autistic groups. However, autistic participants with a history of speech onset delay used more perceptual than thematic descriptors when talking about their interests, whereas the opposite was true for autistic individuals without speech onset delay. This finding remained significant after controlling for linguistic differences observed between the two groups.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Verbal reporting, but not the nature or positive function, of intense interests differed between adult autistic individuals depending on their speech acquisition history: oral reporting of intense interests was characterized by perceptual dominance for autistic individuals with delayed speech onset and thematic dominance for those without. This may contribute to the heterogeneous presentation observed among autistic adults of normal intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid28733999, year = {2017}, author = {Hawkins, S and Adamus, J and Chiang, CY and Covell, E and O'Leary, J and Lee, JM}, title = {Retinyl propionate and climbazole combination demonstrates clinical improvement to the appearance of hyperpigmentation and deep wrinkling with minimal irritation.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {39}, number = {6}, pages = {589-599}, doi = {10.1111/ics.12412}, pmid = {28733999}, issn = {1468-2494}, mesh = {Adult ; Diterpenes ; Double-Blind Method ; Drug Therapy, Combination ; Female ; Humans ; Hyperpigmentation/*drug therapy ; Imidazoles/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Retinyl Esters ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Vitamin A/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/*analogs &amp; derivatives ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate a combination of retinyl propionate and climbazole (RPC) compared to 0.1% retinol for its efficacy, tolerance and ageing appearance.<br><br>METHOD: Forty-five healthy Caucasian females, ages 40-70, with moderately photodamaged facial skin, were recruited for a 16-week randomized, double-blind, IRB-approved facial study. The efficacy of RPC treatment was compared to 0.1% retinol, in the same product base formulation, with twice daily, split-face product application. Changes in overall photodamage, fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation and irritation were visually evaluated and measured by instrumentation. Subjective appraisal of efficacy was self-assessed from images where subjects were blinded to treatment and time point. Irritancy potential was also evaluated in a 5-day randomized, double-blind, IRB-approved patch study.<br><br>RESULTS: Treatment with RPC resulted in significant (P < 0.05) improvement in ageing attributes compared to 0.1% retinol treatment, with minimal irritation. More than 50% of subjects showed improvement to deep wrinkles in the crow's feet area after 5 weeks of product application, and continued improvement to deep wrinkles was observed throughout the course of the study. Similarly, improvement was observed for the appearance of lines and wrinkles in the nasolabial fold (NLF) and for mottled hyperpigmentation. The results from subjective self-assessment confirmed in vivo clinical assessments. In a separate patch study, significantly less irritation was observed with the RPC product as compared to the 0.1% retinol control product.<br><br>CONCLUSION: RPC delivered significant skin anti-ageing benefits comparable or greater than 0.1% retinol, with minimal irritation.}, }
@article {pmid28733805, year = {2017}, author = {Harii, K and Kawashima, M and Furuyama, N and Lei, X and Hopfinger, R and Lee, E}, title = {OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) in the Treatment of Crow's Feet Lines in Japanese Subjects.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {41}, number = {5}, pages = {1186-1197}, pmid = {28733805}, issn = {1432-5241}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Double-Blind Method ; Drug Administration Schedule ; Esthetics ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Injections, Intralesional ; Injections, Subcutaneous ; Japan ; Kaplan-Meier Estimate ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Patient Satisfaction/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Reference Values ; Rejuvenation/*physiology ; Skin Aging/*drug effects/physiology ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of onabotulinumtoxinA in Japanese subjects with crow's feet lines (CFL).<br><br>METHODS: This phase 3, multicenter, double-blind, randomized study included 2 treatment periods: 6-month placebo-controlled period followed by a 7-month open-label period. In period 1, subjects with moderate to severe CFL received onabotulinumtoxinA 24 U (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;104) or 12 U (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;99), or placebo (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;97). In period 2, placebo subjects switched to onabotulinumtoxinA 24 U or 12 U (double-blind dose). Up to 5 total treatments were permitted for subjects meeting re-treatment criteria. The primary efficacy measure was the proportion of investigator-assessed responders (achieving CFL severity of none or mild at maximum smile using the Facial Wrinkle Scale with Asian Photonumeric Guide [FWS-A] at day 30 of treatment 1). Additional endpoints included other responders (achieving at least 1-grade improvement at maximum smile and at rest using the FWS-A at day 30), responders at other time points, duration of effect, subject-reported outcomes, and safety.<br><br>RESULTS: All efficacy endpoints were met. At day 30, the proportion of subjects achieving none or mild severity at maximum smile was significantly greater (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001) in the onabotulinumtoxinA 24 and 12 U groups (68.3 and 56.6%, respectively) compared with the placebo group (8.2%). Efficacy results were consistent over repeated treatments, and subjects' self-assessed outcomes were similar to investigator-assessed results.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with onabotulinumtoxinA 24 and 12 U improved the appearance of CFL in Japanese subjects and was well tolerated, with no new safety findings.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE I: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .}, }
@article {pmid28725378, year = {2016}, author = {Inger, R and Cox, DTC and Per, E and Norton, BA and Gaston, KJ}, title = {Ecological role of vertebrate scavengers in urban ecosystems in the UK.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {6}, number = {19}, pages = {7015-7023}, pmid = {28725378}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Recent research has demonstrated how scavenging, the act of consuming dead animals, plays a key role in ecosystem structure, functioning, and stability. A growing number of studies suggest that vertebrate scavengers also provide key ecosystem services, the benefits humans gain from the natural world, particularly in the removal of carcasses from the environment. An increasing proportion of the human population is now residing in cities and towns, many of which, despite being highly altered environments, contain significant wildlife populations, and so animal carcasses. Indeed, non-predation fatalities may be higher within urban than natural environments. Despite this, the fate of carcasses in urban environments and the role vertebrate scavengers play in their removal have not been determined. In this study, we quantify the role of vertebrate scavengers in urban environments in three towns in the UK. Using experimentally deployed rat carcasses and rapid fire motion-triggered cameras, we determined which species were scavenging and how removal of carcass biomass was partitioned between them. Of the 63 experimental carcasses deployed, vertebrate scavenger activity was detected at 67%. There was a significantly greater depletion in carcass biomass in the presence (mean loss of 194 g) than absence (mean loss of 14 g) of scavengers. Scavenger activity was restricted to three species, Carrion crows Corvus corone, Eurasian magpies Pica pica, and European red foxes Vulpes vulpes. From behavioral analysis, we estimated that a maximum of 73% of the carcass biomass was removed by vertebrate scavengers. Despite having low species richness, the urban scavenger community in our urban study system removed a similar proportion of carcasses to those reported in more pristine environments. Vertebrate scavengers are providing a key urban ecosystem service in terms of carcass removal. This service is, however, often overlooked, and the species that provide it are among some of the most disliked and persecuted.}, }
@article {pmid28724689, year = {2017}, author = {Kelley, LA and Clayton, NS}, title = {California scrub-jays reduce visual cues available to potential pilferers by matching food colour to caching substrate.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {13}, number = {7}, pages = {}, pmid = {28724689}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Animals ; California ; Color ; Cues ; Feeding Behavior ; *Passeriformes ; }, abstract = {Some animals hide food to consume later; however, these caches are susceptible to theft by conspecifics and heterospecifics. Caching animals can use protective strategies to minimize sensory cues available to potential pilferers, such as caching in shaded areas and in quiet substrate. Background matching (where object patterning matches the visual background) is commonly seen in prey animals to reduce conspicuousness, and caching animals may also use this tactic to hide caches, for example, by hiding coloured food in a similar coloured substrate. We tested whether California scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) camouflage their food in this way by offering them caching substrates that either matched or did not match the colour of food available for caching. We also determined whether this caching behaviour was sensitive to social context by allowing the birds to cache when a conspecific potential pilferer could be both heard and seen (acoustic and visual cues present), or unseen (acoustic cues only). When caching events could be both heard and seen by a potential pilferer, birds cached randomly in matching and non-matching substrates. However, they preferentially hid food in the substrate that matched the food colour when only acoustic cues were present. This is a novel cache protection strategy that also appears to be sensitive to social context. We conclude that studies of cache protection strategies should consider the perceptual capabilities of the cacher and potential pilferers.}, }
@article {pmid28724626, year = {2017}, author = {Serrano, FJ and Chiappe, LM}, title = {Aerodynamic modelling of a Cretaceous bird reveals thermal soaring capabilities during early avian evolution.}, journal = {Journal of the Royal Society, Interface}, volume = {14}, number = {132}, pages = {}, pmid = {28724626}, issn = {1742-5662}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Computer Simulation ; Flight, Animal/*physiology ; Fossils ; *Models, Biological ; }, abstract = {Several flight modes are thought to have evolved during the early evolution of birds. Here, we use a combination of computational modelling and morphofunctional analyses to infer the flight properties of the raven-sized, Early Cretaceous bird Sapeornis chaoyangensis-a likely candidate to have evolved soaring capabilities. Specifically, drawing information from (i) mechanical inferences of the deltopectoral crest of the humerus, (ii) wing shape (i.e. aspect ratio), (iii) estimations of power margin (i.e. difference between power required for flight and available power from muscles), (iv) gliding behaviour (i.e. forward speed and sinking speed), and (v) palaeobiological evidence, we conclude that S. chaoyangensis was a thermal soarer with an ecology similar to that of living South American screamers. Our results indicate that as early as 125 Ma, some birds evolved the morphological and aerodynamic requirements for soaring on continental thermals, a conclusion that highlights the degree of ecological, functional and behavioural diversity that resulted from the first major evolutionary radiation of birds.}, }
@article {pmid28717324, year = {2017}, author = {Fadel, HM and Afifi, R}, title = {Investigation of avian influenza infection in wild birds in Ismailia and Damietta cities, Egypt.}, journal = {Veterinary world}, volume = {10}, number = {6}, pages = {695-701}, pmid = {28717324}, issn = {0972-8988}, abstract = {AIM: This study was carried out to monitor avian influenza (AI) infection in wild birds in Egypt.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 135 wild birds were examined for the presence of H5, H7, and H9 hemagglutination inhibition antibodies. Organs and swab samples of 75 birds were screened by multiplex real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RRT-PCR) to detect AI subtypes H5, H7, and H9 matrix genes.<br><br>RESULTS: The highest seropositive result was recorded in cattle egrets (90.9%) followed by crows (88.6%), semi-captive pigeons (44.8%), and moorhens (39.1%). In cattle egrets, semi-captive pigeons and moorhens, H5 antibodies predominated. In crows, H9 antibodies predominated. Multiple infections with two or three virus subtypes were highest in crows (6/39, 15.4%) followed by cattle egrets (3/30, 10%) and moorhens' (1/9, 11.1%) positive samples. Multiplex RRT-PCR results revealed two positive samples in cattle egrets and moorhens.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results indicated high seropositive rates against AI virus subtypes H5 and H9 in the examined wild birds. Multiple infections with more than one AI virus (AIV) subtypes were detected in some birds. This requires a collaboration of efforts to monitor AIV infection in wild birds and implement suitable early intervention measures.}, }
@article {pmid28707087, year = {2017}, author = {Kaefer, M}, title = {Jay Grosfeld, MD, FACS, FAAP, FRCS, FRCPS, FRSH (1935-2016).}, journal = {World journal of surgery}, volume = {41}, number = {9}, pages = {2185-2186}, doi = {10.1007/s00268-017-4099-z}, pmid = {28707087}, issn = {1432-2323}, }
@article {pmid28706072, year = {2017}, author = {Kabadayi, C and Osvath, M}, title = {Ravens parallel great apes in flexible planning for tool-use and bartering.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {357}, number = {6347}, pages = {202-204}, doi = {10.1126/science.aam8138}, pmid = {28706072}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; *Crows ; Female ; Hominidae/*psychology ; Male ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The ability to flexibly plan for events outside of the current sensory scope is at the core of being human and is crucial to our everyday lives and society. Studies on apes have shaped a belief that this ability evolved within the hominid lineage. Corvids, however, have shown evidence of planning their food hoarding, although this has been suggested to reflect a specific caching adaptation rather than domain-general planning. Here, we show that ravens plan for events unrelated to caching-tool-use and bartering-with delays of up to 17 hours, exert self-control, and consider temporal distance to future events. Their performance parallels that seen in apes and suggests that planning evolved independently in corvids, which opens new avenues for the study of cognitive evolution.}, }
@article {pmid28706023, year = {2017}, author = {Boeckle, M and Clayton, NS}, title = {A raven's memories are for the future.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {357}, number = {6347}, pages = {126-127}, doi = {10.1126/science.aan8802}, pmid = {28706023}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; *Memory ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, }
@article {pmid28705691, year = {2017}, author = {Godwin, CA and Hunter, MA and Bezdek, MA and Lieberman, G and Elkin-Frankston, S and Romero, VL and Witkiewitz, K and Clark, VP and Schumacher, EH}, title = {Functional connectivity within and between intrinsic brain networks correlates with trait mind wandering.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {103}, number = {}, pages = {140-153}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2017.07.006}, pmid = {28705691}, issn = {1873-3514}, mesh = {Adult ; Attention/*physiology ; Brain/diagnostic imaging/*physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Creativity ; Executive Function ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neural Pathways/diagnostic imaging/physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Personality/*physiology ; Rest ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Individual differences across a variety of cognitive processes are functionally associated with individual differences in intrinsic networks such as the default mode network (DMN). The extent to which these networks correlate or anticorrelate has been associated with performance in a variety of circumstances. Despite the established role of the DMN in mind wandering processes, little research has investigated how large-scale brain networks at rest relate to mind wandering tendencies outside the laboratory. Here we examine the extent to which the DMN, along with the dorsal attention network (DAN) and frontoparietal control network (FPCN) correlate with the tendency to mind wander in daily life. Participants completed the Mind Wandering Questionnaire and a 5-min resting state fMRI scan. In addition, participants completed measures of executive function, fluid intelligence, and creativity. We observed significant positive correlations between trait mind wandering and 1) increased DMN connectivity at rest and 2) increased connectivity between the DMN and FPCN at rest. Lastly, we found significant positive correlations between trait mind wandering and fluid intelligence (Ravens) and creativity (Remote Associates Task). We interpret these findings within the context of current theories of mind wandering and executive function and discuss the possibility that certain instances of mind wandering may not be inherently harmful. Due to the controversial nature of global signal regression (GSReg) in functional connectivity analyses, we performed our analyses with and without GSReg and contrast the results from each set of analyses.}, }
@article {pmid28698508, year = {2017}, author = {Lehnert, MS and Kramer, VR and Rawlins, JE and Verdecia, V and Daniels, JC}, title = {Jamaica's Critically Endangered Butterfly: A Review of the Biology and Conservation Status of the Homerus Swallowtail (Papilio (Pterourus) homerus Fabricius).}, journal = {Insects}, volume = {8}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {28698508}, issn = {2075-4450}, abstract = {The Homerus swallowtail, Papilio (Pterourus) homerus Fabricius, is listed as an endangered species and is endemic to the Caribbean island of Jamaica. The largest butterfly in the Western Hemisphere, P. homerus once inhabited seven of Jamaica's 14 parishes and consisted of at least three populations; however, now only two stronghold populations remain, a western population in the rugged Cockpit Country and an eastern population in the Blue and John Crow Mountains. Despite numerous studies of its life history, much about the population biology, including estimates of total numbers of individuals in each population, remains unknown. In addition, a breeding program is needed to establish an experimental population, which could be used to augment wild populations and ensure the continued survival of the species. Here, we present a review of the biology of P. homerus and recommendations for a conservation plan.}, }
@article {pmid28695387, year = {2017}, author = {Mitra, S and Karmakar, A and Mukherjee, A and Barik, A}, title = {The Role of Leaf Volatiles of Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) Raven in the Attraction of Altica cyanea (Weber) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae).}, journal = {Journal of chemical ecology}, volume = {43}, number = {7}, pages = {679-692}, pmid = {28695387}, issn = {1573-1561}, support = {F. No. - 43-578/2014(SR) from UGC, Govt. of India//University Grants Commission/ ; }, mesh = {Acyclic Monoterpenes ; Animals ; Bicyclic Monoterpenes ; Coleoptera/*physiology ; Female ; *Herbivory ; Monoterpenes/analysis/metabolism ; Olfactometry ; Onagraceae/chemistry/*physiology ; Pest Control, Biological/methods ; Pheromones/analysis/*metabolism ; Plant Leaves/chemistry/*physiology ; Plant Weeds/chemistry/*physiology ; Terpenes/analysis/metabolism ; Volatile Organic Compounds/analysis/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Larvae and adults of Altica cyanea (Weber) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) feed on the rice-field weed Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) Raven (Onagraceae), commonly known as willow primrose, which is considered a biocontrol agent of the weed. Volatile organic compounds from undamaged plants, plants after 4, 12, and 36 h of continuous feeding by A. cyanea larvae or adult females and after mechanical damaging were identified by GC-MS and GC-FID analyses. Twenty nine compounds were identified from undamaged plants. 2Z-Penten-1-ol, geraniol, and 1-tridecanol were present in all plants damaged by larvae. In contrast, feeding by adults caused the release of 2Z-penten-1-ol only after 12 and 36 h; whereas geraniol and 1-tridecanol appeared only after 36 h. Farnesyl acetone was detected after 12 and 36 h of feeding by larvae and after 36 h of feeding by adults. Farnesene was detected after 36 h of feeding by larvae and adults. Linalool was unique after 36 h of feeding by larvae. In Y-shaped glass tube olfactometer bioassays, A. cyanea females were attracted to volatiles after 36 h of feeding by larvae or adults compared to volatiles released by undamaged plants. The insects were attracted to five synthetic compounds: 3-hexanol, α-pinene, linalool oxide, geraniol, and phytol. Synthetic blends were more attractive than individual compounds. Compared to undamaged plants, volatiles released by plants, damaged by conspecific individuals, were more attractive to A. cyanea females, due to elevated emissions of 3-hexanol, α-pinene, linalool oxide, geraniol, and phytol.}, }
@article {pmid28694614, year = {2017}, author = {Manju, R and Hegde, AM and Parlees, P and Keshan, A}, title = {Environmental Arsenic Contamination and Its Effect on Intelligence Quotient of School Children in a Historic Gold Mining Area Hutti, North Karnataka, India: A Pilot Study.}, journal = {Journal of neurosciences in rural practice}, volume = {8}, number = {3}, pages = {364-367}, pmid = {28694614}, issn = {0976-3147}, abstract = {CONTEXT: Arsenic is a rare crystal element that naturally occurs in all environmental media. A combination of regional and site-specific biogeochemical and hydrological factors governs its dispersion in the environment. It has far reaching consequences on human health. Exposure to arsenic in drinking water has been associated with a decline in intellectual function in children.<br><br>AIM: The aim of this study is to assess the relationship between exposure to arsenic by drinking water and children's intelligence in Karnataka state, India.<br><br>SETTINGS AND DESIGN: Twenty school children of age 10-14 years from Sandur, Bellary, Karnataka, and from Hutti, Raichur, Karnataka, were categorized as control and study group, respectively.<br><br>SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Water samples were collected from both the villages for the analysis of arsenic and fluoride levels. Hair and nail samples were collected from the participants, and the arsenic levels were determined. Intelligence quotient (IQ) assessment was done using the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices.<br><br>STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Chi-square test, Mann-Whitney U-test, and Fisher's exact test. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.<br><br>RESULTS: There was a significant increase in the arsenic content in the hair and nail samples of children in the study group. The mean IQ tests score in the control group and study group was 30.55 and 17.95, respectively, and this difference was statistically significant.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Chronic arsenic exposure could be a possible cause for the reduced IQ scores seen in children residing in Hutti, Raichur District, North Karnataka.}, }
@article {pmid28691148, year = {2017}, author = {Bugelli, V and Papi, L and Fornaro, S and Stefanelli, F and Chericoni, S and Giusiani, M and Vanin, S and Campobasso, CP}, title = {Entomotoxicology in burnt bodies: a case of maternal filicide-suicide by fire.}, journal = {International journal of legal medicine}, volume = {131}, number = {5}, pages = {1299-1306}, pmid = {28691148}, issn = {1437-1596}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Automobiles ; Burns/*pathology ; Carbon Monoxide Poisoning ; Carboxyhemoglobin/analysis ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Diazepam/analysis ; *Diptera ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; *Fires ; Gasoline ; *Homicide ; Humans ; Hypnotics and Sedatives/analysis ; Kidney/chemistry ; Larva ; Liver/chemistry ; Male ; Nordazepam/analysis ; Oxazepam/analysis ; *Postmortem Changes ; *Suicide ; }, abstract = {One of the most common methods of maternal filicide is by fire. In this case study, a 40-year-old female and her children were found completely burned in a burnt out car. All bodies showed a degree of destruction by fire consisting to a level 3 of the Crow-Glassman Scale (CGS) and early stage of insect activity. Toxicological analyses were performed on soft tissues and body fluids still available. The results were positive for diazepam and its metabolites only for children with blood concentrations consistent with therapeutic doses of benzodiazepines. Home video surveillance cameras confirmed sedation prior to death recording the mother while administering some drops of sedative drugs in a soft drink to the children just a couple of hours before setting fire to the car. Based on autopsy findings, all victims were still alive at the time of fire. The cause of death was determined as carbon monoxide poisoning and fatal thermal injuries by fire. This case study has a special focus on the entomotoxicology and the potential role of insects in death investigations of burnt bodies, supposed to be an inadequate substratum for insect colonization. It demonstrates that in burnt bodies, arthropod colonization can be quite immediate after fire is extinguished. Toxicological analyses performed on larvae actively feeding on the children's bodies were positive for diazepam and its metabolites in small amount compared with blood concentrations, whereas the larvae collected from the mother's body were totally negative. These data, according to the autopsy findings and the toxicological results from the victim's blood and tissues, supported the suspect of a non-lethal sedation prior to death, which is a common behaviour in maternal filicide.}, }
@article {pmid28689262, year = {2017}, author = {West, EH and Peery, MZ}, title = {Behavioral mechanisms leading to improved fitness in a subsidized predator.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {184}, number = {4}, pages = {787-798}, pmid = {28689262}, issn = {1432-1939}, support = {MSN150028//Save the Redwoods League (US)/International ; MSN160820//Save the Redwoods League (US)/International ; MSN164905//University of Wisconsin Madison Office of the Vice Chancellor Research and Graduate Education/International ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Ecosystem ; *Genetic Fitness ; Human Activities ; Humans ; Predatory Behavior ; Reproduction ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {General mechanisms underlying the distribution and fitness of synanthropic predators in human-influenced landscapes remain unclear. Under the consumer resource-matching hypothesis, synanthropes are expected to distribute themselves among habitats according to resource availability, such that densities are greater in human-subsidized habitats, but mean individual fitness is equal among habitats because of negative density dependence. However, "under-matching" to human food resources can occur, because dominant individuals exclude subordinates from subsidized habitats and realize relatively high fitness. We integrated physiological, behavioral, and demographic information to test resource-matching hypotheses in Steller's jays (Cyanocitta stelleri), a synanthropic nest predator, to understand how behavior and social systems can influence how synanthropes respond to food subsidies. Jays consumed more human foods at subsidized (park campground) sites than jays at unsubsidized (interior forest) sites based on stable isotope analyses. Jays that occurred at higher densities were in better body condition (based on feather growth bars and lipid analyses), and had greater reproductive output at subsidized than unsubsidized sites. Jays with breeding territories in subsidized sites maintained relatively small home ranges that overlapped with multiple conspecifics, and exhibited a social system where dominant individuals typically won contests over food. Thus, jays appeared to be under-matched to prevalent resource subsidies despite high densities and behaviors expected to lead to resource matching. Our results also indicate that local resource subsidies within protected areas can result in source habitats for synanthropes, potentially impacting sensitive species over broader spatial scales.}, }
@article {pmid28688117, year = {2018}, author = {Lim, SM and Geervliet, M and Verhagen, JH and Müskens, GJDM and Majoor, FA and Osterhaus, ADME and Martina, BEE}, title = {Serologic evidence of West Nile virus and Usutu virus infections in Eurasian coots in the Netherlands.}, journal = {Zoonoses and public health}, volume = {65}, number = {1}, pages = {96-102}, doi = {10.1111/zph.12375}, pmid = {28688117}, issn = {1863-2378}, mesh = {Animal Migration ; Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Bird Diseases/blood/epidemiology/*virology ; Birds ; Cell Line ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay/methods/veterinary ; *Flavivirus ; Flavivirus Infections/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; Netherlands ; Population Surveillance ; *West Nile virus ; Zoonoses ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) and Usutu virus (USUV) are arboviruses that are maintained in enzootic transmission cycles between mosquitoes and birds and are occasionally transmitted to mammals. As arboviruses are currently expanding their geographic range and emerging in often unpredictable locations, surveillance is considered an important element of preparedness. To determine whether sera collected from resident and migratory birds in the Netherlands as part of avian influenza surveillance would also represent an effective source for proactive arbovirus surveillance, a random selection of such sera was screened for WNV antibodies using a commercial ELISA. In addition, sera of jackdaws and carrion crows captured for previous experimental infection studies were added to the selection. Of the 265 screened serum samples, 27 were found to be WNV-antibody-positive, and subsequent cross-neutralization experiments using WNV and USUV confirmed that five serum samples were positive for only WNV-neutralizing antibodies and seven for only USUV. The positive birds consisted of four Eurasian coots (Fulica atra) and one carrion crow (Corvus corone) for WNV, of which the latter may suggest local presence of the virus, and only Eurasian coots for USUV. As a result, the screening of a small selection of serum samples originally collected for avian influenza surveillance demonstrated a seroprevalence of 1.6% for WNV and 2.8% for USUV, suggesting that this sustained infrastructure could serve as a useful source for future surveillance of arboviruses such as WNV and USUV in the Netherlands.}, }
@article {pmid28684773, year = {2017}, author = {O'Hara, M and Mioduszewska, B and von Bayern, A and Auersperg, A and Bugnyar, T and Wilkinson, A and Huber, L and Gajdon, GK}, title = {The temporal dependence of exploration on neotic style in birds.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {4742}, pmid = {28684773}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {P 29075/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {*Adaptation, Physiological ; Age Factors ; Animals ; Choice Behavior/*physiology ; Exploratory Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Likelihood Functions ; Male ; Parrots/*physiology ; Pattern Recognition, Visual/physiology ; Songbirds/*physiology ; Species Specificity ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Exploration (interacting with objects to gain information) and neophobia (avoiding novelty) are considered independent traits shaped by the socio-ecology of a given species. However, in the literature it is often assumed that neophobia inhibits exploration. Here, we investigate how different approaches to novelty (fast or slow) determine the time at which exploration is likely to occur across a number of species. We presented four corvid and five parrot species with a touchscreen discrimination task in which novel stimuli were occasionally interspersed within the familiar training stimuli. We investigated the likelihood that an animal would choose novelty at different stages of its training and found evidence for a shift in the pattern of exploration, depending on neotic style. The findings suggest that faster approaching individuals explored earlier, whilst animals with long initial approach latencies showed similar amounts of exploration but did so later in training. Age rather than species might have influenced the amount of total exploration, with juveniles exploring more than adults. Neotic style varied consistently only for one species and seems to involve a strong individual component, rather than being a purely species-specific trait. This suggests that variation in behavioural phenotypes within a species may be adaptive.}, }
@article {pmid28676793, year = {2017}, author = {Gao, S and Kang, Y and Yuan, R and Ma, H and Xiang, B and Wang, Z and Dai, X and Wang, F and Xiao, J and Liao, M and Ren, T}, title = {Immune Responses of Chickens Infected with Wild Bird-Origin H5N6 Avian Influenza Virus.}, journal = {Frontiers in microbiology}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {1081}, pmid = {28676793}, issn = {1664-302X}, abstract = {Since April 2014, new infections of H5N6 avian influenza virus (AIV) in humans and domestic poultry have caused considerable economic losses in the poultry industry and posed an enormous threat to human health worldwide. In previous research using gene sequence and phylogenetic analysis, we reported that H5N6 AIV isolated in February 2015 (ZH283) in Pallas's sandgrouse was highly similar to that isolated in a human in December 2015 (A/Guangdong/ZQ874/2015), whereas a virus (i.e., SW8) isolated in oriental magpie-robin in 2014 was highly similar to that of A/chicken/Dongguan/2690/2013 (H5N6). However, the pathogenicity, transmissibility, and host immune-related response of chickens infected by those wild bird-origin H5N6 AIVs remain unknown. In response, we examined the viral distribution and mRNA expression profiles of immune-related genes in chickens infected with both viruses. Results showed that the H5N6 AIVs were highly pathogenic to chickens and caused not only systemic infection in multiple tissues, but also 100% mortality within 3-5 days post-infection. Additionally, ZH283 efficiently replicated in all tested tissues and transmitted among chickens more rapidly than SW8. Moreover, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that following infection with H5N6, AIVs immune-related genes remained active in a tissue-dependent manner, as well as that ZH283 induced mRNA expression profiles such as TLR3, TLR7, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-10, IL-8, and MHC-II to a greater extent than SW8 in the tested tissues of infected chickens. Altogether, our findings help to illuminate the pathogenesis and immunologic mechanisms of H5N6 AIVs in chickens.}, }
@article {pmid28666833, year = {2017}, author = {Lin, WS and Lo, JH and Yang, JH and Wang, HW and Fan, SZ and Yen, JH and Wang, PY}, title = {Ludwigia octovalvis extract improves glycemic control and memory performance in diabetic mice.}, journal = {Journal of ethnopharmacology}, volume = {207}, number = {}, pages = {211-219}, doi = {10.1016/j.jep.2017.06.044}, pmid = {28666833}, issn = {1872-7573}, mesh = {AMP-Activated Protein Kinases/metabolism ; Animals ; Blood Glucose/drug effects ; Cell Line ; Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/*drug therapy/physiopathology ; Diet, High-Fat/adverse effects ; Glucose/metabolism ; Hep G2 Cells ; Humans ; Hypoglycemic Agents/isolation &amp; purification/*pharmacology ; Male ; Memory/drug effects ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Onagraceae/*chemistry ; Plant Extracts/*pharmacology ; Streptozocin ; }, abstract = {Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) P.H. Raven (Onagraceae) extracts have historically been consumed as a healthful drink for treating various conditions, including edema, nephritis, hypotension and diabetes.<br><br>AIM OF THE STUDY: We have previously shown that Ludwigia octovalvis extract (LOE) can significantly extend lifespan and improve age-related memory deficits in Drosophila melanogaster through activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Since AMPK has become a critical target for treating diabetes, we herein investigate the anti-hyperglycemic potential of LOE.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Differentiated C2C12 muscle cells, HepG2 hepatocellular cells, streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice and high fat diet (HFD)-induced diabetic mice were used to investigate the anti-hyperglycemic potential of LOE. The open field test and novel object recognition test were used to evaluate spontaneous motor activity and memory performance of HFD-induced diabetic mice.<br><br>RESULTS: In differentiated C2C12 muscle cells and HepG2 hepatocellular cells, treatments with LOE and its active component (&#x3b2;-sitosterol) induced significant AMPK phosphorylation. LOE also enhanced uptake of a fluorescent glucose derivative (2-NBDG) and inhibited glucose production in these cells. The beneficial effects of LOE were completely abolished when an AMPK inhibitor, dorsomorphin, was added to the culture system, suggesting that LOE requires AMPK activation for its action in vitro. In streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice, we found that both LOE and &#x3b2;-sitosterol induced an anti-hyperglycemic effect comparable to that of metformin, a drug that is commonly prescribed to treat diabetes. Moreover, LOE also improved glycemic control and memory performance of mice fed a HFD.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that LOE is a potent anti-diabetic intervention that may have potential for future clinical applications.}, }
@article {pmid28664998, year = {2017}, author = {Termignoni-García, F and Jaramillo-Correa, JP and Chablé-Santos, J and Liu, M and Shultz, AJ and Edwards, SV and Escalante-Pliego, P}, title = {Genomic footprints of adaptation in a cooperatively breeding tropical bird across a vegetation gradient.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {26}, number = {17}, pages = {4483-4496}, doi = {10.1111/mec.14224}, pmid = {28664998}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological/*genetics ; Animals ; Breeding ; *Ecosystem ; Gene Flow ; Genetic Variation ; *Genetics, Population ; Genomics ; Mexico ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; }, abstract = {Identifying the genetic basis of phenotypic variation and its relationship with the environment is key to understanding how local adaptations evolve. Such patterns are especially interesting among populations distributed across habitat gradients, where genetic structure can be driven by isolation by distance (IBD) and/or isolation by environment (IBE). Here, we used variation in ~1,600 high-quality SNPs derived from paired-end sequencing of double-digest restriction site-associated DNA (ddRAD-Seq) to test hypotheses related to IBD and IBE in the Yucatan jay (Cyanocorax yucatanicus), a tropical bird endemic to the Yucatán Peninsula. This peninsula is characterized by a precipitation and vegetation gradient-from dry to evergreen tropical forests-that is associated with morphological variation in this species. We found a moderate level of nucleotide diversity (π = .008) and little evidence for genetic differentiation among vegetation types. Analyses of neutral and putatively adaptive SNPs (identified by complementary genome-scan approaches) indicate that IBD is the most reliable explanation to account for frequency distribution of the former, while IBE has to be invoked to explain those of the later. These results suggest that selective factors acting along a vegetation gradient can promote local adaptation in the presence of gene flow in a vagile, nonmigratory and geographically restricted species. The putative candidate SNPs identified here are located within or linked to a variety of genes that represent ideal targets for future genomic surveys.}, }
@article {pmid28661714, year = {2017}, author = {Chooi, WT and Mohd Zaharim, N and Desrosiers, A and Ahmad, I and Yasin, MAM and Syed Jaapar, SZ and Schottenfeld, RS and Vicknasingam, BK and Chawarski, MC}, title = {Early Initiation of Amphetamine-Type Stimulants (ATS) Use Associated with Lowered Cognitive Performance among Individuals with Co-Occurring Opioid and ATS Use Disorders in Malaysia.}, journal = {Journal of psychoactive drugs}, volume = {49}, number = {4}, pages = {326-332}, pmid = {28661714}, issn = {2159-9777}, support = {R01 DA014718/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Amphetamine/*adverse effects ; Amphetamine-Related Disorders/*etiology ; Analgesics, Opioid/*adverse effects ; Central Nervous System Stimulants/*adverse effects ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Humans ; Malaysia ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) use is increasingly prevalent in Malaysia, including among individuals who also use opioids. We evaluated cognitive functioning profiles among individuals with co-occurring opioid and ATS dependence and their lifetime patterns of drug use. Participants (N = 50) enrolling in a clinical trial of buprenorphine/naloxone treatment with or without atomoxetine completed the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices, Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test, Digit Span, Trail Making and Symbol Digit Substitution tasks. Multidimensional scaling and a K-means cluster analyses were conducted to classify participants into lower versus higher cognitive performance groups. Subsequently, analyses of variance procedures were conducted to evaluate between group differences on drug use history and demographics. Two clusters of individuals with distinct profiles of cognitive performance were identified. The age of ATS use initiation, controlling for the overall duration of drug use, was significantly earlier in the lower than in the higher cognitive performance cluster: 20.9 (95% CI: 18.0-23.8) versus 25.2 (95% CI: 22.4-28.0, p = 0.038). While adverse effects of ATS use on cognitive functioning can be particularly pronounced with younger age, potentially related to greater vulnerability of the developing brain to stimulant and/or neurotoxic effects of these drugs, the current study findings cannot preclude lowered cognitive performance before initiation of ATS use.}, }
@article {pmid28659699, year = {2016}, author = {Makharia, A and Nagarajan, A and Mishra, A and Peddisetty, S and Chahal, D and Singh, Y}, title = {Effect of environmental factors on intelligence quotient of children.}, journal = {Industrial psychiatry journal}, volume = {25}, number = {2}, pages = {189-194}, pmid = {28659699}, issn = {0972-6748}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: A child's intelligence quotient (IQ) is determined by both genetic and environmental factors that start from the prenatal period itself. There is a lack of data on the factors which influence IQ in Indian children; therefore, we conducted a multicenter questionnaire-based study to determine the environmental factors which influence IQ in Indian children.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional observational study, we recruited 1065 schoolchildren between the age of 12 and 16 years from 2 government and 13 private schools in 5 towns, 6 cities, and 2 villages across India. All the children were administered a questionnaire consisting of various environmental factors such as parents' education, occupation, income, and the physical activity of the students. IQ scores were assessed using Ravens Standard Progressive Matrices. An approximate IQ score was calculated using the score on the Ravens test. IQ scores were divided into three groups: below normal IQ (0-79), normal IQ (80-119), and high IQ (above 120). The data were analyzed using SPSS software.<br><br>RESULTS: In this study, it was observed that the environmental factors such as place of residence, physical activity, family income, parental education, and occupation of the father had an impact on the IQ of the children. Children living in cities (P = 0.001), children having physical activity more than 5 h/weeks (P = 0.001), children with parents having a postgraduate or graduate level of education (P = 0.001), children whose father having a professional job (P = 0.001), and those with a higher family income (P = 0.001) were more likely to have high IQ.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In the present study, we found that various environmental factors such as place of residence, physical exercise, family income, parents' occupation and education influence the IQ of a child to a great extent. Hence, a child must be provided with an optimal environment to be able to develop to his/her full genetic potential.}, }
@article {pmid28658287, year = {2017}, author = {Expósito-Granados, M and Parejo, D and Martínez, JG and Sánchez-Tójar, A and Precioso, M and Molina-Morales, M and Avilés, JM}, title = {An experimental test of host's life history traits modulation in response to cuckoo parasitism risk.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {12}, number = {6}, pages = {e0179206}, pmid = {28658287}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Symbiosis ; }, abstract = {Hosts can counteract parasites through defences based on resistance and/or tolerance. The mechanistic basis of tolerance, which involve defensive mechanisms minimizing parasite damage after a successful parasitic attack, remains poorly explored in the study of cuckoo-host interactions. Here, we experimentally explore the possibility that the risk of great spotted cuckoo Clamator glandarius parasitism may induce tolerance defences in magpie Pica pica hosts through plasticity in life-history traits. We predict that magpies exposed to auditory cues indicating high parasitism risk will more likely exhibit resistance and/or modify their life-history traits to minimize parasitism costs (i.e. tolerance) compared to magpies under low parasitism risk. We found that manipulating the perceived parasitism risk did not affect host resistance (i.e. rejection of parasitic eggs) nor host life-history traits. Unexpectedly, host's egg volume increased over the season in nests exposed to auditory cues of control non-harmful hoopoes Upupa epops. Our results do not provide support for inducible defences (either based on resistance or tolerance) in response to risk of parasitism in magpie hosts. Even so, we encourage studying plastic expression of breeding strategies in response to risk of cuckoo parasitism to achieve a better understanding of the mechanistic basis of tolerance defences.}, }
@article {pmid28653410, year = {2017}, author = {Wakefield, ED and Owen, E and Baer, J and Carroll, MJ and Daunt, F and Dodd, SG and Green, JA and Guilford, T and Mavor, RA and Miller, PI and Newell, MA and Newton, SF and Robertson, GS and Shoji, A and Soanes, LM and Votier, SC and Wanless, S and Bolton, M}, title = {Breeding density, fine-scale tracking, and large-scale modeling reveal the regional distribution of four seabird species.}, journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America}, volume = {27}, number = {7}, pages = {2074-2091}, doi = {10.1002/eap.1591}, pmid = {28653410}, issn = {1051-0761}, mesh = {*Animal Distribution ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Charadriiformes/physiology ; *Feeding Behavior ; Ireland ; Models, Biological ; *Nesting Behavior ; Population Density ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {Population-level estimates of species' distributions can reveal fundamental ecological processes and facilitate conservation. However, these may be difficult to obtain for mobile species, especially colonial central-place foragers (CCPFs; e.g., bats, corvids, social insects), because it is often impractical to determine the provenance of individuals observed beyond breeding sites. Moreover, some CCPFs, especially in the marine realm (e.g., pinnipeds, turtles, and seabirds) are difficult to observe because they range tens to ten thousands of kilometers from their colonies. It is hypothesized that the distribution of CCPFs depends largely on habitat availability and intraspecific competition. Modeling these effects may therefore allow distributions to be estimated from samples of individual spatial usage. Such data can be obtained for an increasing number of species using tracking technology. However, techniques for estimating population-level distributions using the telemetry data are poorly developed. This is of concern because many marine CCPFs, such as seabirds, are threatened by anthropogenic activities. Here, we aim to estimate the distribution at sea of four seabird species, foraging from approximately 5,500 breeding sites in Britain and Ireland. To do so, we GPS-tracked a sample of 230 European Shags Phalacrocorax aristotelis, 464 Black-legged Kittiwakes Rissa tridactyla, 178 Common Murres Uria aalge, and 281 Razorbills Alca torda from 13, 20, 12, and 14 colonies, respectively. Using Poisson point process habitat use models, we show that distribution at sea is dependent on (1) density-dependent competition among sympatric conspecifics (all species) and parapatric conspecifics (Kittiwakes and Murres); (2) habitat accessibility and coastal geometry, such that birds travel further from colonies with limited access to the sea; and (3) regional habitat availability. Using these models, we predict space use by birds from unobserved colonies and thereby map the distribution at sea of each species at both the colony and regional level. Space use by all four species' British breeding populations is concentrated in the coastal waters of Scotland, highlighting the need for robust conservation measures in this area. The techniques we present are applicable to any CCPF.}, }
@article {pmid28635158, year = {2018}, author = {Widen, EM and Kahn, LG and Cirillo, P and Cohn, B and Kezios, KL and Factor-Litvak, P}, title = {Prepregnancy overweight and obesity are associated with impaired child neurodevelopment.}, journal = {Maternal &amp; child nutrition}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {28635158}, issn = {1740-8709}, support = {P2C HD042849/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; T32 DK007559/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; R00 HD086304/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; T32 ES023772/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; P30 ES009089/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; K99 HD086304/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Body Mass Index ; California/epidemiology ; Child ; Child Development ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; *Fetal Development ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; *Maternal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; Neurodevelopmental Disorders/epidemiology/*etiology ; *Neurogenesis ; Obesity/*physiopathology ; Overweight/*physiopathology ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Complications/*physiopathology ; Prevalence ; Prospective Studies ; Recognition, Psychology ; Thinness/physiopathology ; Verbal Learning ; Weight Gain ; }, abstract = {The authors examined the relationship of prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) and gestational weight gain (GWG) with child neurodevelopment. Mother-child dyads were a subgroup (n = 2,084) of the Child Health and Development Studies from the Oakland, California, area enrolled during pregnancy from 1959 to 1966 and followed at child age 9 years. Linear regression was used to examine associations between prepregnancy BMI, GWG, and standardized Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test and Raven Progressive Matrices scores and to evaluate effect modification of GWG by prepregnancy BMI. Before pregnancy, 77% of women were normal weight, 8% were underweight, 11% were overweight, and 3% were obese. Associations between GWG and child outcomes did not vary by prepregnancy BMI, suggesting no evidence for interaction. In multivariable models, compared to normal prepregnancy BMI, prepregnancy overweight and obesity were associated with lower Peabody scores (b: -1.29; 95% CI [-2.6, -0.04] and b: -2.7; 95% CI [-5.0, -0.32], respectively). GWG was not associated with child Peabody score [b: -0.03 (95% CI: -0.13, 0.07)]. Maternal BMI and GWG were not associated with child Raven score (all P >0.05). Maternal prepregnancy overweight and obesity were associated with lower scores for verbal recognition in mid-childhood. These results contribute to evidence linking maternal BMI with child neurodevelopment. Future research should examine the role of higher prepregnancy BMI values and the pattern of pregnancy weight gain in child cognitive outcomes.}, }
@article {pmid28631321, year = {2017}, author = {}, title = {John A. Raven.}, journal = {The New phytologist}, volume = {215}, number = {2}, pages = {514-515}, doi = {10.1111/nph.14651}, pmid = {28631321}, issn = {1469-8137}, mesh = {*Botany ; Career Choice ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Research ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid28624899, year = {2017}, author = {Fasfous, AF and Al-Joudi, HF and Puente, AE and Pérez-García, M}, title = {Neuropsychological Measures in the Arab World: A Systematic Review.}, journal = {Neuropsychology review}, volume = {27}, number = {2}, pages = {158-173}, pmid = {28624899}, issn = {1573-6660}, mesh = {Africa, Northern ; Arab World ; Humans ; Middle East ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; *Neuropsychology/instrumentation/methods ; }, abstract = {Although Arabic is one of the most widely used languages in the world, little is known on the availability of standardized neuropsychological tests in Arabic. We review the literature published before 2016, using the keywords Arab*, cogniti*, and neuropsycholo*, as well as keywords for each Arab country. PubMed, PsycINFO, Education Source, Academic Search Complete, Education Resources Information Center, Shamaa, and Arabpsynet databases were searched, in addition to a selected number of Arabic medical and educational journals. After excluding case reports, studies conducted on Arab groups residing outside the Arab world or Israel, and studies that employed intelligence scales or cognitive screens without standardization, 384 studies were eventually reviewed. Tests with most extensive use, adaptation, validation and norming were identified. The Raven Matrices, with its variants, was the most normed cognitive test for Arab individuals (normed in 16 countries). The rate of neuropsychology publications from the Arab countries combined, per year, was less than half of that of each American journal (top 10 journals pertaining to cognition). Nonetheless, the rate in Arab countries has increased after 2010. Publications were mostly from Egypt and Saudi Arabia, but the ratio of test adaptation-to-publication was the largest in Jordan and Lebanon. Approximately half of these publications did not employ cognitive tests that were developed, translated, adapted, or standardized according to international guidelines of psychological measurement. We provide recommendations on improving clinical neuropsychology to better serve Arab patients.}, }
@article {pmid28620679, year = {2017}, author = {Hassan, MM and Hoque, MA and Debnath, NC and Yamage, M and Klaassen, M}, title = {Are Poultry or Wild Birds the Main Reservoirs for Avian Influenza in Bangladesh?.}, journal = {EcoHealth}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {490-500}, pmid = {28620679}, issn = {1612-9210}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/*virology ; Bangladesh/epidemiology ; Birds/*virology ; Disease Outbreaks/*veterinary ; Disease Reservoirs/*virology ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/*isolation &amp; purification ; Influenza in Birds/epidemiology ; Poultry/*virology ; Prevalence ; }, abstract = {Avian influenza viruses (AIV) are of great socioeconomic and health concern, notably in Southeast Asia where highly pathogenic strains, such as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 and other H5 and H7 AIVs, continue to occur. Wild bird migrants are often implicated in the maintenance and spread of AIV. However, little systematic surveillance of wild birds has been conducted in Southeast Asia to evaluate whether the prevalence of AIV in wild birds is higher than in other parts of the world where HPAI outbreaks occur less frequently. Across Bangladesh, we randomly sampled a total of 3585 wild and domestic birds to assess the prevalence of AIV and antibodies against AIV and compared these with prevalence levels found in other endemic and non-endemic countries. Our study showed that both resident and migratory wild birds in Bangladesh do not have a particularly elevated AIV prevalence and AIV sero-prevalence compared to wild birds from regions in the world where H5N1 is not endemic and fewer AIV outbreaks in poultry occur. Like elsewhere, notably wild birds of the orders Anseriformes were identified as the main wild bird reservoir, although we found exceptionally high sero-prevalence in one representative of the order Passeriformes, the house crow (Corvus splendens), importantly living on offal from live bird markets. This finding, together with high sero- and viral prevalence levels of AIV in domestic birds, suggests that wild birds are not at the base of the perpetuation of AIV problems in the local poultry sector, but may easily become victim to AIV spill back from poultry into some species of wild birds, potentially assisting in further spread of the virus.}, }
@article {pmid28619108, year = {2017}, author = {Gomo, G and Mattisson, J and Hagen, BR and Moa, PF and Willebrand, T}, title = {Scavenging on a pulsed resource: quality matters for corvids but density for mammals.}, journal = {BMC ecology}, volume = {17}, number = {1}, pages = {22}, pmid = {28619108}, issn = {1472-6785}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/physiology ; Deer/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Food Chain ; Male ; Norway ; Predatory Behavior ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Human food subsidies can provide predictable food sources in large quantities for wildlife species worldwide. In the boreal forest of Fennoscandia, gut piles from moose (Alces alces) harvest provide a potentially important food source for a range of opportunistically scavenging predators. Increased populations of predators can negatively affect threatened or important game species. As a response to this, restrictions on field dressing of moose are under consideration in parts of Norway. However, there is a lack of research to how this resource is utilized. In this study, we used camera-trap data from 50 gut piles during 1043 monitoring days. We estimated depletion of gut piles separately for parts with high and low energy content, and used these results to scale up gut pile density in the study area. We identified scavenger species and analyzed the influences of gut pile quality and density on scavenging behavior of mammals and corvids (family Corvidae).<br><br>RESULTS: Main scavengers were corvids and red fox (Vulpes vulpes). Parts with high energy content were rapidly consumed, mainly by corvids that were present at all gut piles shortly after the remains were left at the kill site. Corvid presence declined with days since harvest, reflecting reduction in gut pile quality over time independent of gut pile density. Mammals arrived 7-8&#xa0;days later at the gut piles than corvids, and their presence depended only on gut pile density with a peak at intermediate densities. The decline at high gut pile densities suggest a saturation effect, which could explain accumulation of gut pile parts with low energy content.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that remains from moose harvest can potentially be an important food resource for scavengers, as it was utilized to a high degree by many species. This study gives novel insight into how energy content and density of resources affect scavenging patterns among functional groups of scavengers.}, }
@article {pmid28615758, year = {2017}, author = {Anil Kumar, BN and Malhotra, S and Bhattacharya, A and Grover, S and Batra, YK}, title = {Regional Cerebral Glucose Metabolism and its Association with Phenotype and Cognitive Functioning in Patients with Autism.}, journal = {Indian journal of psychological medicine}, volume = {39}, number = {3}, pages = {262-270}, pmid = {28615758}, issn = {0253-7176}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: In spite of three decades of neuroimaging, we are unable to find consistent and coherent anatomical or pathophysiological basis for autism as changes are subtle and there are no studies from India.<br><br>AIM: To study the regional cerebral glucose metabolism in children with autism using positron emission tomography (PET) scan and to study the behavior and cognitive functioning among them.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten subjects (8-19 years) meeting Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition criteria for autism were evaluated on Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), trail making test (TMT) A and B, Wisconsin card sorting test, Raven's progressive matrices, and PET scan. A control group of 15 matched subjects without any brain pathology or neurological disorder was similarly studied.<br><br>RESULTS: Four out of the ten patients with autism had abnormal PET scan findings, and in contrast, none of the patients in the control group had abnormal PET scan. Of the four patients with abnormality in the PET scan, two patients had findings suggestive of hypometabolism in cerebellum bilaterally; one patient showed bilateral hypometabolism in anterior temporal cortices and cerebellum, and the fourth patient had hypermetabolism in the bilateral frontal cortices and medial occipital cortices. Subjects with autism performed poorly on neuropsychological testing. Patients with abnormal PET scan findings had significantly higher scores on the "body use" domain of CARS indicating more stereotypy.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Findings of this study support the view of altered brain functioning in subjects with autism.}, }
@article {pmid28610033, year = {2017}, author = {Hernández-Triana, LM and Brugman, VA and Prosser, SWJ and Weland, C and Nikolova, N and Thorne, L and Marco, MF and Fooks, AR and Johnson, N}, title = {Molecular approaches for blood meal analysis and species identification of mosquitoes (Insecta: Diptera: Culicidae) in rural locations in southern England, United Kingdom.}, journal = {Zootaxa}, volume = {4250}, number = {1}, pages = {67-76}, doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.4250.1.5}, pmid = {28610033}, issn = {1175-5334}, mesh = {Animals ; Anopheles ; Cattle ; Culex ; *Culicidae ; Dogs ; England ; Female ; Humans ; Insect Vectors ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; United Kingdom ; West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {Thirty-four species of Culicidae are present in the UK, of which 15 have been implicated as potential vectors of arthropod-borne viruses such as West Nile virus. Identification of mosquito feeding preferences is paramount to the understanding of vector-host-pathogen interactions which, in turn, would assist in the control of disease outbreaks. Results are presented on the application of DNA barcoding for vertebrate species identification in blood-fed female mosquitoes in rural locations. Blood-fed females (n = 134) were collected in southern England from rural sites and identified based on morphological criteria. Blood meals from 59 specimens (44%) were identified as feeding on eight hosts: European rabbit, cow, human, barn swallow, dog, great tit, magpie and blackbird. Analysis of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I mtDNA barcoding region and the internal transcribed spacer 2 rDNA region of the specimens morphologically identified as Anopheles maculipennis s.l. revealed the presence of An. atroparvus and An. messeae. A similar analysis of specimens morphologically identified as Culex pipiens/Cx. torrentium showed all specimens to be Cx. pipiens (typical form). This study demonstrates the importance of using molecular techniques to support species-level identification in blood-fed mosquitoes to maximize the information obtained in studies investigating host feeding patterns.}, }
@article {pmid28597718, year = {2018}, author = {Chen, X and Ye, M and Chang, L and Chen, W and Zhou, R}, title = {Effect of Working Memory Updating Training on Retrieving Symptoms of Children With Learning Disabilities.}, journal = {Journal of learning disabilities}, volume = {51}, number = {5}, pages = {507-519}, doi = {10.1177/0022219417712015}, pmid = {28597718}, issn = {1538-4780}, mesh = {Academic Performance ; Child ; Cognitive Remediation/*methods ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence/physiology ; Learning Disabilities/physiopathology/*rehabilitation ; Male ; Mathematics ; *Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; }, abstract = {Working memory (WM) deficiency is a primary reason for the poor academic performance of children with learning disabilities (LDs). Studies have shown that the WM of typical children could be improved through training, and WM training contributes to improving their fluid intelligence and academic achievement. However, few studies have investigated WM training for children with LDs, and results have been inconsistent. The present study examined the long-term effects of WM updating training and whether it can mitigate LD symptoms. Fifty-four children with LDs were recruited and divided randomly into a training or control group. The training group underwent adaptive running WM training for 20 days. Before and after training, the 2 groups completed a 2-back task, a digit span task (forward and backward), Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices test, and a scholastic attainment test (Chinese and math). The tests were repeated 6 months later. The results showed that, as compared with the controls, the training group exhibited significant improvements in the digit backward span task, 2-back task, and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. The math scores of the training group improved significantly by 6 months after the training. The results of this study suggest that WM updating training could mitigate the cognitive deficits of LDs and improve the WM capacity, fluid intelligence, and math scores of children with LDs. Moreover, the training effects could be maintained for at least 6 months.}, }
@article {pmid28595250, year = {2017}, author = {Trevidic, P and Andre, P and Benadiba, L and Deutsch, JJ and Galatoire, O and Garcia, P and Grand-Vincent, A and Boisnic, S and Kerihuel, JC and Salomon, C}, title = {Prospective, Split-Face, Randomized, Long-Term Blinded Objective Comparison of the Performance and Tolerability of Two New Hyaluronic Acid Fillers.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {43}, number = {12}, pages = {1448-1457}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000001193}, pmid = {28595250}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Cosmetic Techniques ; Dermal Fillers/*administration &amp; dosage/therapeutic use ; Eye ; Female ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid/*administration &amp; dosage/therapeutic use ; Injections, Subcutaneous ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Nasolabial Fold ; Prospective Studies ; Single-Blind Method ; Skin ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: There are requirements for long-term, objective comparisons of hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To compare efficacy and tolerability of ART FILLER Universal (AFU) and ART FILLER Fine lines (AFFL) with the existing HA fillers for the treatment of nasolabial folds and crow's feet.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospective, randomized, rater- and patient-blind, split-face comparison of AFU with JUVEDERM Ultra 3 (JUV) and AFFL with FIRST LINES PureSense (FLPS). The severity of nasolabial folds and crow's feet was assessed by independent blinded evaluators using the Lemperle scale at baseline, day (D) 30/D45, D90, and D180. Tolerability, Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), wrinkle volumes, and skin thickness and density were also measured at D30/D45, D90, and D180.<br><br>RESULTS: At D30 and D180 respectively, 61 and 57 patients were assessed. Scores for nasolabial folds and crow's feet showed statistically significant improvements at D30, D90, and D180. AFU and AFFL were noninferior to JUV and FLPS, respectively. Most patients showed GAIS improvements, maintained until at least D180 and significant increases of collagen synthesis in crow's feet and nasolabial folds. Treatments were well tolerated.<br><br>CONCLUSION: AFU and AFFL are noninferior to comparators. The methodology used represents a novel approach to augment existing clinical assessment of HA fillers.}, }
@article {pmid28589845, year = {2017}, author = {Kryukov, AP and Spiridonova, LN and Mori, S and Arkhipov, VY and Red'kin, YA and Goroshko, OA and Lobkov, EG and Haring, E}, title = {Deep Phylogeographic Breaks in Magpie Pica pica Across the Holarctic: Concordance with Bioacoustics and Phenotypes.}, journal = {Zoological science}, volume = {34}, number = {3}, pages = {185-200}, doi = {10.2108/zs160119}, pmid = {28589845}, issn = {0289-0003}, mesh = {Animals ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; *Genetic Variation ; Haplotypes ; Passeriformes/*genetics/physiology ; Phylogeny ; Phylogeography ; }, abstract = {We examined sequences of the mitochondrial control region in magpies (Pica pica) from the entire distribution range and found deep genetic splits into four major lineages: (1) group West (Europe-Siberia), (2) group East (southern Far East), (3) P. p. mauritanica (North Africa), and (4) P. p. hudsonia (North America). These lineages show a geographic pattern corresponding to known subspecies or subspecies groups. Genetic variation within the widely-distributed group West is low and neutrality tests supported a recent expansion scenario. The haplotypes from Kamchatka, representing a separated sublineage with clear affinity to the European-Siberian group, are almost identical, implying a recent bottleneck. Group East contained two subclades without clear geographic pattern, presumably due to admixing of populations that had diverged in Pleistocene refuges. The homogeneity of the Kyushu population supports historical reports of introduction of the species from Korea. In contrast, the high variation in the recently established Hokkaido population may reflect an ongoing invasion from several populations of the Far Eastern mainland. Bioacoustic data based on chatter call differentiate groups of subspecies and reflect phylogeographic patterns, i.e., mitochondrial lineages. Furthermore, we report the fast spreading of P. p. jankowskii towards the west along the upper Amur River, and a slower shifting of P. p. leucoptera in the opposite direction thus yielding a new contact zone. Overall, our data support a scenario of divergence in geographic isolation, but the ongoing expansion of distribution ranges may lead to major changes in phylogeographic patterns.}, }
@article {pmid28570966, year = {2017}, author = {O'Donnell, LA and Axelson, DA and Kowatch, RA and Schneck, CD and Sugar, CA and Miklowitz, DJ}, title = {Enhancing quality of life among adolescents with bipolar disorder: A randomized trial of two psychosocial interventions.}, journal = {Journal of affective disorders}, volume = {219}, number = {}, pages = {201-208}, pmid = {28570966}, issn = {1573-2517}, support = {R01 MH073871/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH093676/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R21 MH097007/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Antipsychotic Agents/therapeutic use ; Bipolar Disorder/psychology/*therapy ; Combined Modality Therapy ; Communication ; Family Relations ; Family Therapy/*methods ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Patient Education as Topic/*methods ; Quality of Life/*psychology ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Adolescents with bipolar disorder (BD) report lower quality of life (QoL) than adolescents with other psychiatric disorders. This study compared the efficacy of family-focused therapy for adolescents (FFT-A) plus pharmacotherapy to brief psychoeducation (enhanced care, or EC) plus pharmacotherapy on self-rated QoL in adolescents with BD over 2 years.<br><br>METHODS: Participants were 141 adolescents (mean age: 15.6&#xb1;1.4yr) with BD I or II who had a mood episode in the previous 3 months. Adolescents and parents were randomly assigned to (1) FFT-A, given in 21 sessions in 9 months of psychoeducation, communication enhancement training, and problem-solving skills training, or (2) EC, given in 3 family psychoeducation sessions. Study psychiatrists provided patient participants with protocol-based pharmacotherapy for the duration of the study. QoL was assessed with The KINDL[R]Questionnaire (Ravens-Sieberer and Bullinger, 1998) during active treatment (baseline to 9 months) and during a post-treatment follow-up (9-24 months).<br><br>RESULTS: The two treatment groups did not differ in overall QoL scores over 24 months. However, adolescents in FFT-A had greater improvements in quality of family relationships and physical well-being than participants in EC. For quality of friendships, the trajectory during active treatment favored EC, whereas the trajectory during post-treatment favored FFT-A.<br><br>LIMITATIONS: We were unable to standardize medication use or adherence over time. Quality of life was based on self-report rather than on observable functioning.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: A short course of family psychoeducation and skills training may enhance relational functioning and health in adolescents with BD. The effects of different psychosocial interventions on peer relationships deserves further study.}, }
@article {pmid28560573, year = {2017}, author = {Chen, X and Wen, T and Hu, J and Liu, T and Esch, GW and Liang, Y and Li, H and Huang, S}, title = {Sarcocystis dehongensis n. sp. (Apicomplexa: Sarcocystidae) from water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) in China.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {116}, number = {8}, pages = {2145-2150}, pmid = {28560573}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Animals ; Buffaloes/*parasitology ; China ; DNA, Mitochondrial/chemistry ; DNA, Ribosomal/chemical synthesis/genetics ; Microscopy, Electron, Transmission/veterinary ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; Sarcocystis/*classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/ultrastructure ; Sarcocystosis/parasitology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {Water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) is the intermediate host for at least four species of Sarcocystis: S. fusiformis, S. buffalonis, S. levinei, and S. sinensis/S. dubeyi. Here, a new species, Sarcocystis dehongensis, is reported in 51 of 756 (6.7%) water buffaloes in China. By light microscopy, the cysts of S. dehongensis were macroscopic, up to 18.5 mm long and 95 μm in diameter; 4.9-11.9 μm villous protrusions extended beyond the sarcocyst wall. Using transmission electron microscopy, the sarcocyst wall had lancet- or leaf-like protrusions in longitudinal section, but the cross section showed that the protrusions appeared as mushroom-like in shape with a core of tightly packed microtubules, similar to "type 24." BLAST searches revealed that S. dehongensis shared the most similarities with the 18S rDNA sequence of S. hardangeri (92.4%) and mitochondrial cox1 gene sequence of S. ovalis (81.0%), whereas no sequences in GenBank were found to be significantly similar to the ITS-1 region of S. dehongensis. A phylogenetic analysis based on 18S rDNA and mitochondrial cox1 gene sequences suggested that S. dehongensis was closely related to Sarcocystis species from cervids that employ corvids as definitive hosts.}, }
@article {pmid28557688, year = {2017}, author = {Veit, L and Pidpruzhnykova, G and Nieder, A}, title = {Learning Recruits Neurons Representing Previously Established Associations in the Corvid Endbrain.}, journal = {Journal of cognitive neuroscience}, volume = {29}, number = {10}, pages = {1712-1724}, doi = {10.1162/jocn_a_01152}, pmid = {28557688}, issn = {1530-8898}, mesh = {Action Potentials ; Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Association Learning/*physiology ; Attention/physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Electrodes, Implanted ; Feedback, Psychological/physiology ; Neuronal Plasticity/*physiology ; Neurons/*physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Telencephalon/*physiology ; Visual Perception/physiology ; }, abstract = {Crows quickly learn arbitrary associations. As a neuronal correlate of this behavior, single neurons in the corvid endbrain area nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL) change their response properties during association learning. In crows performing a delayed association task that required them to map both familiar and novel sample pictures to the same two choice pictures, NCL neurons established a common, prospective code for associations. Here, we report that neuronal tuning changes during learning were not distributed equally in the recorded population of NCL neurons. Instead, such learning-related changes relied almost exclusively on neurons which were already encoding familiar associations. Only in such neurons did behavioral improvements during learning of novel associations coincide with increasing selectivity over the learning process. The size and direction of selectivity for familiar and newly learned associations were highly correlated. These increases in selectivity for novel associations occurred only late in the delay period. Moreover, NCL neurons discriminated correct from erroneous trial outcome based on feedback signals at the end of the trial, particularly in newly learned associations. Our results indicate that task-relevant changes during association learning are not distributed within the population of corvid NCL neurons but rather are restricted to a specific group of association-selective neurons. Such association neurons in the multimodal cognitive integration area NCL likely play an important role during highly flexible behavior in corvids.}, }
@article {pmid28553216, year = {2017}, author = {Brown, AC and Crewther, DP}, title = {Autistic Children Show a Surprising Relationship between Global Visual Perception, Non-Verbal Intelligence and Visual Parvocellular Function, Not Seen in Typically Developing Children.}, journal = {Frontiers in human neuroscience}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {239}, pmid = {28553216}, issn = {1662-5161}, abstract = {Despite much current research into the visual processing style of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), understanding of the neural mechanisms is lagging, especially with respect to the contributions of the overlapping dichotomies of magnocellular/parvocellular (afferent neural pathways), global/local (perception) and dorsal/ventral (cortical streams). Here, we addressed this deficiency by measuring inspection times (ITs) for novel global/local stimuli as well as recording nonlinear visually evoked potentials (VEPs), in particular, magnocellular and parvocellular temporal efficiencies. The study was conducted on a group of male ASD children and a typically developing (TD) group matched for mean age and mean non-verbal intelligence, as measured by the Raven's Progressive Matrices. The IT results did not differ between groups, however a negative correlation between global IT and Raven's score was found in the ASD group, that was not evident in the TD group. Nonlinear VEP showed the ASD group had smaller amplitude parvocellular-generated second order responses compared to the TD group. This is a sign of improved temporal responsiveness in ASD vs. TD groups. Principal Component Analysis linked global IT, non-verbal intelligence scores and VEP parvocellular efficiency in a single factor for the ASD but not the TD group. The results are suggestive of a constraint on pathways available for cognitive response in the ASD group, with temporal processing for those with ASD becoming more reliant on the parvocellular pathway.}, }
@article {pmid28545237, year = {2017}, author = {Pochon, R and Touchet, C and Ibernon, L}, title = {Emotion Recognition in Adolescents with Down Syndrome: A Nonverbal Approach.}, journal = {Brain sciences}, volume = {7}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {28545237}, issn = {2076-3425}, abstract = {Several studies have reported that persons with Down syndrome (DS) have difficulties recognizing emotions; however, there is insufficient research to prove that a deficit of emotional knowledge exists in DS. The aim of this study was to evaluate the recognition of emotional facial expressions without making use of emotional vocabulary, given the language problems known to be associated with this syndrome. The ability to recognize six emotions was assessed in 24 adolescents with DS. Their performance was compared to that of 24 typically developing children with the same nonverbal-developmental age, as assessed by Raven's Progressive Matrices. Analysis of the results revealed no global difference; only marginal differences in the recognition of different emotions appeared. Study of the developmental trajectories revealed a developmental difference: the nonverbal reasoning level assessed by Raven's matrices did not predict success on the experimental tasks in the DS group, contrary to the typically developing group. These results do not corroborate the hypothesis that there is an emotional knowledge deficit in DS and emphasize the importance of using dynamic, strictly nonverbal tasks in populations with language disorders.}, }
@article {pmid28539482, year = {2017}, author = {KleinHeerenbrink, M and Johansson, LC and Hedenström, A}, title = {Multi-cored vortices support function of slotted wing tips of birds in gliding and flapping flight.}, journal = {Journal of the Royal Society, Interface}, volume = {14}, number = {130}, pages = {}, pmid = {28539482}, issn = {1742-5662}, mesh = {*Air Movements ; Animals ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Flight, Animal/*physiology ; Wings, Animal/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; }, abstract = {Slotted wing tips of birds are commonly considered an adaptation to improve soaring performance, despite their presence in species that neither soar nor glide. We used particle image velocimetry to measure the airflow around the slotted wing tip of a jackdaw (Corvus monedula) as well as in its wake during unrestrained flight in a wind tunnel. The separated primary feathers produce individual wakes, confirming a multi-slotted function, in both gliding and flapping flight. The resulting multi-cored wingtip vortex represents a spreading of vorticity, which has previously been suggested as indicative of increased aerodynamic efficiency. Considering benefits of the slotted wing tips that are specific to flapping flight combined with the wide phylogenetic occurrence of this configuration, we propose the hypothesis that slotted wings evolved initially to improve performance in powered flight.}, }
@article {pmid28537801, year = {2017}, author = {Panev, AS and Tserne, TA and Polugrudov, AS and Bakutova, LA and Petrova, NB and Tatarinova, OV and Kolosova, ON and Borisenkov, MF}, title = {Association of chronotype and social jetlag with human non-verbal intelligence.}, journal = {Chronobiology international}, volume = {34}, number = {7}, pages = {977-980}, doi = {10.1080/07420528.2017.1324473}, pmid = {28537801}, issn = {1525-6073}, mesh = {*Activity Cycles ; Adolescent ; Adult ; *Circadian Rhythm ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Phenotype ; *Social Behavior ; Time Factors ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of chronotype and social jetlag (SJL) on intelligence. Subjects were aged 14-25 years (n = 1008). A significant effect of intelligence on academic performance, as measured by the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices test, was found (F2,917 = 11.75, P < 0.0001, η[2] = 0.03). When SJL was less than 2 hours, the intelligence of people with late chronotype was found to be higher than that of subjects with early and intermediate chronotypes (F2,305 = 3.12, P < 0.05, η[2] = 0.02). A negative effect of SJL on the results of intelligence testing was noted only in subjects with late chronotype (F2,536 = 2.61, P < 0.05, η[2] = 0.02). Our data suggest that people with late chronotype have a higher level of intelligence, but these advantages disappear when SJL ≥2 hours.}, }
@article {pmid28535928, year = {2017}, author = {Luef, EM and Ter Maat, A and Pika, S}, title = {Vocal similarity in long-distance and short-distance vocalizations in raven pairs (Corvus corax) in captivity.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {142}, number = {}, pages = {1-7}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2017.05.013}, pmid = {28535928}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Acoustics ; Animals ; Communication ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; *Pair Bond ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Vocal interactions in many birds are characterized by imitation or the matching of vocalizations whereby one individual makes its vocalizations more similar to those of a conspecific. This behaviour is aided by vocal learning, which allows birds to change the vocalizations already in their repertoires, or to add new ones. The majority of studies on vocal similarity have been focussing on the songs of birds rather than their calls, with evidence for vocal similarity in calls being rather scarce. Here, we investigated whether ravens make their calls acoustically similar to one another by analysing the extent to which short- and long-distance calls of their vocal repertoires exhibited vocal similarity. Our results showed that long-distance calls, but not short-distance calls, are highly similar between pair partners. This effect may be explained by the different functions underlying short- and long-distance communication in ravens, with vocal similarity possibly being scaffolded by specific social matrices such as pair-bonds and/or strong social relationships.}, }
@article {pmid28534720, year = {2017}, author = {Gutierrez, JC and Chigerwe, M and Ilkiw, JE and Youngblood, P and Holladay, SD and Srivastava, S}, title = {Spatial and Visual Reasoning: Do These Abilities Improve in First-Year Veterinary Medical Students Exposed to an Integrated Curriculum?.}, journal = {Journal of veterinary medical education}, volume = {44}, number = {4}, pages = {669-675}, doi = {10.3138/jvme.0915-158R3}, pmid = {28534720}, issn = {0748-321X}, mesh = {Curriculum ; Education, Veterinary/*methods ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Problem Solving ; Program Evaluation ; *Space Perception ; Students, Medical/*psychology ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Spatial visualization ability refers to the human cognitive ability to form, retrieve, and manipulate mental models of spatial nature. Visual reasoning ability has been linked to spatial ability. There is currently limited information about how entry-level spatial and visual reasoning abilities may predict veterinary anatomy performance or may be enhanced with progression through the veterinary anatomy content in an integrated curriculum. The present study made use of two tests that measure spatial ability and one test that measures visual reasoning ability in veterinary students: Guay's Visualization of Views Test, adapted version (GVVT), the Mental Rotations Test (MRT), and Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices Test, short form (RavenT). The tests were given to the entering class of veterinary students during their orientation week and at week 32 in the veterinary medical curriculum. Mean score on the MRT significantly increased from 15.2 to 20.1, and on the RavenT significantly increased from 7.5 to 8.8. When females only were evaluated, results were similar to the total class outcome; however, all three tests showed significant increases in mean scores. A positive correlation between the pre- and post-test scores was found for all three tests. The present results should be considered preliminary at best for associating anatomic learning in an integrated curriculum with spatial and visual reasoning abilities. Other components of the curriculum, for instance histology or physiology, could also influence the improved spatial visualization and visual reasoning test scores at week 32.}, }
@article {pmid28534028, year = {2017}, author = {Embleton, ND and Berrington, JE and Dorling, J and Ewer, AK and Juszczak, E and Kirby, JA and Lamb, CA and Lanyon, CV and McGuire, W and Probert, CS and Rushton, SP and Shirley, MD and Stewart, CJ and Cummings, SP}, title = {Mechanisms Affecting the Gut of Preterm Infants in Enteral Feeding Trials.}, journal = {Frontiers in nutrition}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {14}, pmid = {28534028}, issn = {2296-861X}, support = {EME/13/122/02/DH_/Department of Health/United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {Large randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in preterm infants offer unique opportunities for mechanistic evaluation of the risk factors leading to serious diseases, as well as the actions of interventions designed to prevent them. Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) a serious inflammatory gut condition and late-onset sepsis (LOS) are common feeding and nutrition-related problems that may cause death or serious long-term morbidity and are key outcomes in two current UK National Institutes for Health Research (NIHR) trials. Speed of increasing milk feeds trial (SIFT) randomized preterm infants to different rates of increases in milk feeds with a primary outcome of survival without disability at 2 years corrected age. Enteral lactoferrin in neonates (ELFIN) randomizes infants to supplemental enteral lactoferrin or placebo with a primary outcome of LOS. This is a protocol for the mechanisms affecting the gut of preterm infants in enteral feeding trials (MAGPIE) study and is funded by the UK NIHR Efficacy and Mechanistic Evaluation programme. MAGPIE will recruit ~480 preterm infants who were enrolled in SIFT or ELFIN. Participation in MAGPIE does not change the main trial protocols and uses non-invasive sampling of stool and urine, along with any residual resected gut tissue if infants required surgery. Trial interventions may involve effects on gut microbes, metabolites (e.g., short-chain fatty acids), and aspects of host immune function. Current hypotheses suggest that NEC and/or LOS are due to a dysregulated immune system in the context of gut dysbiosis, but mechanisms have not been systematically studied within large RCTs. Microbiomic analysis will use next-generation sequencing, and metabolites will be assessed by mass spectrometry to detect volatile organic and other compounds produced by microbes or the host. We will explore differences between disease cases and controls, as well as exploring the actions of trial interventions. Impacts of this research are multiple: translation of knowledge of mechanisms promoting gut health may explain outcomes or suggest alternate strategies to improve health. Results may identify new non-invasive diagnostic or monitoring techniques, preventative or treatment strategies for NEC or LOS, or provide data useful for risk stratification in future studies. Mechanistic evaluation might be especially informative where there are not clear effects on the primary outcome (ISRCTN 12554594).}, }
@article {pmid28527091, year = {2017}, author = {Viticchi, G and Falsetti, L and Bartolini, M and Buratti, L and Pistelli, L and Provinciali, L and Silvestrini, M}, title = {Raven coloured progressive matrices in migraine without aura patients.}, journal = {Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology}, volume = {38}, number = {Suppl 1}, pages = {177-179}, pmid = {28527091}, issn = {1590-3478}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnosis/psychology ; Executive Function/physiology ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/pathology/physiology ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Migraine without Aura/*diagnosis/*psychology ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {Conflicting results emerged from studies investigating cognitive performances in migraine patients. Based on clinical and neuroradiological aspects, the possible involvement of executive functions has been especially taken into consideration. The aim of this study was to evaluate, in a population of subjects affected by migraine without aura (MwoA), frontal lobe cognitive functions. We enrolled all the consecutive patients affected by MwoA referred to our headache centre for a first evaluation. Each patient underwent a neuropsychological evaluation including Raven coloured progressive matrices (CPM). We collected variables as age, education, years of migraine, frequency of attacks and CPM scores. Relationship between continuous variables was explored with multiple regression lines, selecting the best-fitting trendline for each relationship. We obtained a final sample of 36 subjects (females: 62.5%; mean age: 42.25 ± 10.21 years). Patients had mean length of migraine history of 12.25 ± 11.00 years and a mean frequency of attacks of 8.06 ± 7.15 per month. Linear regression underlines a progressive decrease of CPM score with the increase of the migraine history's length (R [2] = 0.8871; p < 0.001), and the frequency of migraine attacks (R [2] = 0.3122; p < 0.05). Our findings suggest that pathological CPM scores can be associated with the severity of migraine. These data seem to confirm the hypothesis of an impairment of executive functions in MwoA. Different hypotheses to explain cognitive impairment in migraine have been postulated including the impact of the typical white matter lesions and a long history of drug abuse. The possible relevant clinical consequence of a full comprehension of this particular aspect related to migraine deserves further attention and consideration.}, }
@article {pmid28512148, year = {2017}, author = {}, title = {Erratum for the Research Article: "Reactive oxygen species induce virus-independent MAVS oligomerization in systemic lupus erythematosus" by I. A. Buskiewicz, T. Montgomery, E. C. Yasewicz, S. A. Huber, M. P. Murphy, R. C. Hartley, R. Kelly, M. K. Crow, A. Perl, R. C. Budd, A. Koenig.}, journal = {Science signaling}, volume = {10}, number = {479}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1126/scisignal.aan5765}, pmid = {28512148}, issn = {1937-9145}, }
@article {pmid28510577, year = {2017}, author = {Baragli, P and Demuru, E and Scopa, C and Palagi, E}, title = {Are horses capable of mirror self-recognition? A pilot study.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {12}, number = {5}, pages = {e0176717}, pmid = {28510577}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Horses ; Pilot Projects ; *Recognition, Psychology ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Mirror Self-Recognition (MSR) unveils complex cognitive, social and emotional skills and it has been found only in humans and few other species, such as great apes, dolphins, elephants and magpies. In this pilot study, we tested if horses show the capacity of MSR. Four subjects living socially under naturalistic conditions were selected for the experiment. We adopted the classical mark test, which consists in placing a coloured mark on an out-of-view body part, visible only through mirror inspection. If the animal considers the image as its own, it will use its reflection to detect the mark and will try to explore it. We enhanced the classical paradigm by introducing a double-check control. Only in the presence of the reflecting surface, animals performed tactile and olfactory exploration of the mirror and looked behind it. These behaviors suggest that subjects were trying to associate multiple sensory cues (visual, tactile and olfactory) to the image in the mirror. The lack of correspondence between the collected stimuli in front of the mirror and the response to the colored mark lead us to affirm that horses are able to perceive that the reflected image is incongruent when compared with the memorized information of a real horse. However, without replication of data, the self-directed behavior towards the colored marks showed by our horses cannot be sufficient per se to affirm that horses are capable of self-recognition.}, }
@article {pmid28499162, year = {2017}, author = {Jaam, M and Ibrahim, MIM and Kheir, N and Awaisu, A}, title = {Factors associated with medication adherence among patients with diabetes in the Middle East and North Africa region: A systematic mixed studies review.}, journal = {Diabetes research and clinical practice}, volume = {129}, number = {}, pages = {1-15}, doi = {10.1016/j.diabres.2017.04.015}, pmid = {28499162}, issn = {1872-8227}, mesh = {Africa, Northern ; Diabetes Mellitus/*drug therapy/psychology ; Drug Therapy, Combination/psychology ; Humans ; Hypoglycemic Agents/pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Medication Adherence/*psychology ; Middle East ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {Multiple systematic reviews were conducted investigating factors associated with medication adherence worldwide. However, investigations from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region were largely underrepresented in those reviews. Therefore, the objective of this systematic review is to identify the factors influencing medication adherence among patients with diabetes in the MENA region. A systematic literature search was conducted through Cochrane Library, EBSCO, EMBASE, Google Scholar, ISI Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, SCOPUS, and ProQuest. Studies were included if they determined factors associated with medication adherence among patients with diabetes within the MENA region. Quality was assessed using Crow Critical Appraisal Tool. Thirty primary studies from 10 MENA countries were included. The factors associated with medication adherence were categorized into demographics-related; disease- and medication-related; perception, attitude and psychological feelings-related; and societal-related factors. Positively associated factors included knowledge about the disease and medications, regular follow-up visits, and patients' positive beliefs about effectiveness and motivations about medications, while negatively associated factors included forgetfulness, side effects, and polypharmacy. Factors associated with medication adherence among patients with diabetes in the MENA region are highly diverse. The identified factors can serve as potential targets for culturally-relevant interventions to improve medication adherence and overall health outcomes.}, }
@article {pmid28499128, year = {2017}, author = {Zarrintab, M and Mirzaei, R}, title = {Stress induced by heavy metals on breeding of magpie (Pica pica) from central Iran.}, journal = {Ecotoxicology and environmental safety}, volume = {143}, number = {}, pages = {28-37}, doi = {10.1016/j.ecoenv.2017.04.047}, pmid = {28499128}, issn = {1090-2414}, mesh = {Animals ; Clutch Size/drug effects ; Ecosystem ; Egg Shell/chemistry ; Environmental Monitoring/*methods ; Environmental Pollutants/analysis/*toxicity ; Feathers/chemistry ; Iran ; Metals, Heavy/analysis/*toxicity ; Ovum/chemistry ; Passeriformes/*metabolism/physiology ; Pica ; Random Allocation ; Reproduction/*drug effects ; Stress, Physiological/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to address the impacts of some heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Zn, Ni and Cu) contamination on laying behavior, egg quality and breeding performance of Pica pica in north of Isfahan Province, Iran. During the breeding season of 2013, magpie's egg content and eggshell as well as nestling excrements and feathers were collected and total concentrations of heavy metals were measured by ICP-OES. Except for Zn in nestling feathers, the significantly higher concentrations of heavy metals were observed in nestling excrements than other samples. Also, comparison of heavy metals concentrations in egg content and eggshell showed that egg content had significantly higher concentrations of Zn and Pb, instead eggshell had significantly higher amount of Cu and Cd. Except for Cu, all heavy metals concentrations in eggshell had a negative relationship with morphological characters; and also concentration of Cu in egg content showed a significantly negative correlation with egg weight and volume. The most of heavy metals in nestling feathers and excrements had strongly positive correlations with each other. Also all heavy metals levels in eggshell and egg content had significantly positive correlations (except for Cu). Unhatched eggs had significantly lower weight but also greater levels of Zn, Cd, and Pb, than randomly collected eggs. No significant differences were observed for morphometric measurements of eggs between different sites, however, a decreased gradient was observed in egg volume toward the brick kiln site. Samples collected in brick kiln site accumulated higher concentrations of heavy metals than other sites. Although numbers of clutch size in brick kiln site were significantly higher than other sites, however, other breeding variable were lower than other sites. It can be suggested that ecosystem contamination may be caused to decrease the reproduction rate of Pica pica in brick kiln, probably by laying more poor quality eggs per clutch and nestling mortality.}, }
@article {pmid28494226, year = {2017}, author = {Whalley, CL and Cutting, N and Beck, SR}, title = {The effect of prior experience on children's tool innovation.}, journal = {Journal of experimental child psychology}, volume = {161}, number = {}, pages = {81-94}, doi = {10.1016/j.jecp.2017.03.009}, pmid = {28494226}, issn = {1096-0457}, mesh = {Child ; Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {Spontaneous tool innovation to solve physical problems is difficult for young children. In three studies, we explored the effect of prior experience with tools on tool innovation in children aged 4-7years (N=299). We also gave children an experience more consistent with that experienced by corvids in similar studies to enable fairer cross-species comparisons. Children who had the opportunity to use a premade target tool in the task context during a warm-up phase were significantly more likely to innovate a tool to solve the problem on the test trial compared with children who had no such warm-up experience. Older children benefited from either using or merely seeing a premade target tool prior to a test trial requiring innovation. Younger children were helped by using a premade target tool. Seeing the tool helped younger children in some conditions. We conclude that spontaneous innovation of tools to solve physical problems is difficult for children. However, children from 4years of age can innovate the means to solve the problem when they have had experience with the solution (visual or haptic exploration). Directions for future research are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid28480002, year = {2017}, author = {Whelan, S and Strickland, D and Morand-Ferron, J and Norris, DR}, title = {Reduced reproductive performance associated with warmer ambient temperatures during incubation in a winter-breeding, food-storing passerine.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {7}, number = {9}, pages = {3029-3036}, pmid = {28480002}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Timing of reproduction can influence individual fitness whereby early breeders tend to have higher reproductive success than late breeders. However, the fitness consequences of timing of breeding may also be influenced by environmental conditions after the commencement of breeding. We tested whether ambient temperatures during the incubation and early nestling periods modulated the effect of laying date on brood size and dominant juvenile survival in gray jays (Perisoreus canadensis), a sedentary boreal species whose late winter nesting depends, in part, on caches of perishable food. Previous evidence has suggested that warmer temperatures degrade the quality of these food hoards, and we asked whether warmer ambient temperatures during the incubation and early nestling periods would be associated with smaller brood sizes and lower summer survival of dominant juveniles. We used 38 years of data from a range-edge population of gray jays in Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, where the population has declined over 50% since the study began. Consistent with the "hoard-rot" hypothesis, we found that cold temperatures during incubation were associated with larger brood sizes in later breeding attempts, but temperatures had little effect on brood size for females breeding early in the season. This is the first evidence that laying date and temperature during incubation interactively influence brood size in any bird species. We did not find evidence that ambient temperatures during the incubation period or early part of the nestling period influenced summer survival of dominant juveniles. Our findings provide evidence that warming temperatures are associated with some aspects of reduced reproductive performance in a species that is reliant on cold temperatures to store perishable food caches, some of which are later consumed during the reproductive period.}, }
@article {pmid28479980, year = {2017}, author = {Clayton, N and Wilkins, C}, title = {Memory, mental time travel and The Moustachio Quartet.}, journal = {Interface focus}, volume = {7}, number = {3}, pages = {20160112}, pmid = {28479980}, issn = {2042-8898}, abstract = {Mental time travel allows us to revisit our memories and imagine future scenarios, and this is why memories are not only about the past, but they are also prospective. These episodic memories are not a fixed store of what happened, however, they are reassessed each time they are revisited and depend on the sequence in which events unfold. In this paper, we shall explore the complex relationships between memory and human experience, including through a series of novels 'The Moustachio Quartet' that can be read in any order. To do so, we shall integrate evidences from science and the arts to explore the subjective nature of memory and mental time travel, and argue that it has evolved primarily for prospection as opposed to retrospection. Furthermore, we shall question the notion that mental time travel is a uniquely human construct, and argue that some of the best evidence for the evolution of mental time travel comes from our distantly related cousins, the corvids, that cache food for the future and rely on long-lasting and highly accurate memories of what, where and when they stored their stashes of food.}, }
@article {pmid28472919, year = {2017}, author = {Sun, L and Zhu, Y and Mahmood, ASMA and Tudor, CO and Ren, J and Vijay-Shanker, K and Chen, J and Schmidt, CJ}, title = {WebGIVI: a web-based gene enrichment analysis and visualization tool.}, journal = {BMC bioinformatics}, volume = {18}, number = {1}, pages = {237}, pmid = {28472919}, issn = {1471-2105}, mesh = {Data Mining/*methods ; *Genes ; Genomics/*methods ; Internet ; *Software ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: A major challenge of high throughput transcriptome studies is presenting the data to researchers in an interpretable format. In many cases, the outputs of such studies are gene lists which are then examined for enriched biological concepts. One approach to help the researcher interpret large gene datasets is to associate genes and informative terms (iTerm) that are obtained from the biomedical literature using the eGIFT text-mining system. However, examining large lists of iTerm and gene pairs is a daunting task.<br><br>RESULTS: We have developed WebGIVI, an interactive web-based visualization tool (http://raven.anr.udel.edu/webgivi/) to explore gene:iTerm pairs. WebGIVI was built via Cytoscape and Data Driven Document JavaScript libraries and can be used to relate genes to iTerms and then visualize gene and iTerm pairs. WebGIVI can accept a gene list that is used to retrieve the gene symbols and corresponding iTerm list. This list can be submitted to visualize the gene iTerm pairs using two distinct methods: a Concept Map or a Cytoscape Network Map. In addition, WebGIVI also supports uploading and visualization of any two-column tab separated data.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: WebGIVI provides an interactive and integrated network graph of gene and iTerms that allows filtering, sorting, and grouping, which can aid biologists in developing hypothesis based on the input gene lists. In addition, WebGIVI can visualize hundreds of nodes and generate a high-resolution image that is important for most of research publications. The source code can be freely downloaded at https://github.com/sunliang3361/WebGIVI . The WebGIVI tutorial is available at http://raven.anr.udel.edu/webgivi/tutorial.php .}, }
@article {pmid28468913, year = {2017}, author = {Boonekamp, JJ and Bauch, C and Mulder, E and Verhulst, S}, title = {Does oxidative stress shorten telomeres?.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {}, pmid = {28468913}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Animals ; Biomarkers ; *Oxidative Stress ; Telomere ; Telomere Shortening ; }, abstract = {Oxidative stress shortens telomeres in cell culture, but whether oxidative stress explains variation in telomere shortening in vivo at physiological oxidative stress levels is not well known. We therefore tested for correlations between six oxidative stress markers and telomere attrition in nestling birds (jackdaws Corvus monedula) that show a high rate of telomere attrition in early life. Telomere attrition was measured between ages 5 and 30 days, and was highly variable (average telomere loss: 323 bp, CV = 45%). Oxidative stress markers were measured in blood at age 20 days and included markers of oxidative damage (TBARS, dROMs and GSSG) and markers of antioxidant protection (GSH, redox state, uric acid). Variation in telomere attrition was not significantly related to these oxidative stress markers (|r| ≤ 0.08, n = 87). This finding raises the question whether oxidative stress accelerates telomere attrition in vivo The accumulation of telomere attrition over time depends both on the number of cell divisions and on the number of base pairs lost per DNA replication and, based on our findings, we suggest that in a growing animal cell proliferation, dynamics may be more important for explaining variation in telomere attrition than oxidative stress.}, }
@article {pmid28447768, year = {2017}, author = {Iwata, M and Teshima, M and Seki, T and Yoshioka, S and Takeoka, Y}, title = {Bio-Inspired Bright Structurally Colored Colloidal Amorphous Array Enhanced by Controlling Thickness and Black Background.}, journal = {Advanced materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)}, volume = {29}, number = {26}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1002/adma.201605050}, pmid = {28447768}, issn = {1521-4095}, abstract = {Inspired by Steller's jay, which displays angle-independent structural colors, angle-independent structurally colored materials are created, which are composed of amorphous arrays of submicrometer-sized fine spherical silica colloidal particles. When the colloidal amorphous arrays are thick, they do not appear colorful but almost white. However, the saturation of the structural color can be increased by (i) appropriately controlling the thickness of the array and (ii) placing the black background substrate. This is similar in the case of the blue feather of Steller's jay. Based on the knowledge gained through the biomimicry of structural colored materials, colloidal amorphous arrays on the surface of a black particle as the core particle are also prepared as colorful photonic pigments. Moreover, a structural color on-off system is successfully built by controlling the background brightness of the colloidal amorphous arrays.}, }
@article {pmid28422953, year = {2017}, author = {Soler, M and de Neve, L and Roldán, M and Pérez-Contreras, T and Soler, JJ}, title = {Great spotted cuckoo nestlings have no antipredatory effect on magpie or carrion crow host nests in southern Spain.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {12}, number = {4}, pages = {e0173080}, pmid = {28422953}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Newborn ; Crows/parasitology/*physiology ; Nesting Behavior/*physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Predatory Behavior/*physiology ; Spain ; Symbiosis/physiology ; }, abstract = {Host defences against cuckoo parasitism and cuckoo trickeries to overcome them are a classic example of antagonistic coevolution. Recently it has been reported that this relationship may turn to be mutualistic in the case of the carrion crow (Corvus corone) and its brood parasite, the great spotted cuckoo (Clamator glandarius), given that experimentally and naturally parasitized nests were depredated at a lower rate than non-parasitized nests. This result was interpreted as a consequence of the antipredatory properties of a fetid cloacal secretion produced by cuckoo nestlings, which presumably deters predators from parasitized host nests. This potential defensive mechanism would therefore explain the detected higher fledgling success of parasitized nests during breeding seasons with high predation risk. Here, in a different study population, we explored the expected benefits in terms of reduced nest predation in naturally and experimentally parasitized nests of two different host species, carrion crows and magpies (Pica pica). During the incubation phase non-parasitized nests were depredated more frequently than parasitized nests. However, during the nestling phase, parasitized nests were not depredated at a lower rate than non-parasitized nests, neither in magpie nor in carrion crow nests, and experimental translocation of great spotted cuckoo hatchlings did not reveal causal effects between parasitism state and predation rate of host nests. Therefore, our results do not fit expectations and, thus, do not support the fascinating possibility that great spotted cuckoo nestlings could have an antipredatory effect for host nestlings, at least in our study area. We also discuss different possibilities that may conciliate these with previous results, but also several alternative explanations, including the lack of generalizability of the previously documented mutualistic association.}, }
@article {pmid28417984, year = {2017}, author = {Mullard, A}, title = {An audience with Jay Bradner.}, journal = {Nature reviews. Drug discovery}, volume = {16}, number = {5}, pages = {367}, pmid = {28417984}, issn = {1474-1784}, }
@article {pmid28415177, year = {2017}, author = {Espinosa, G and Rodríguez, R and Gil, JM and Suzuki-Vidal, F and Lebedev, SV and Ciardi, A and Rubiano, JG and Martel, P}, title = {Influence of atomic kinetics in the simulation of plasma microscopic properties and thermal instabilities for radiative bow shock experiments.}, journal = {Physical review. E}, volume = {95}, number = {3-1}, pages = {033201}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.95.033201}, pmid = {28415177}, issn = {2470-0053}, abstract = {Numerical simulations of laboratory astrophysics experiments on plasma flows require plasma microscopic properties that are obtained by means of an atomic kinetic model. This fact implies a careful choice of the most suitable model for the experiment under analysis. Otherwise, the calculations could lead to inaccurate results and inappropriate conclusions. First, a study of the validity of the local thermodynamic equilibrium in the calculation of the average ionization, mean radiative properties, and cooling times of argon plasmas in a range of plasma conditions of interest in laboratory astrophysics experiments on radiative shocks is performed in this work. In the second part, we have made an analysis of the influence of the atomic kinetic model used to calculate plasma microscopic properties of experiments carried out on magpie on radiative bow shocks propagating in argon. The models considered were developed assuming both local and nonlocal thermodynamic equilibrium and, for the latter situation, we have considered in the kinetic model different effects such as external radiation field and plasma mixture. The microscopic properties studied were the average ionization, the charge state distributions, the monochromatic opacities and emissivities, the Planck mean opacity, and the radiative power loss. The microscopic study was made as a postprocess of a radiative-hydrodynamic simulation of the experiment. We have also performed a theoretical analysis of the influence of these atomic kinetic models in the criteria for the onset possibility of thermal instabilities due to radiative cooling in those experiments in which small structures were experimentally observed in the bow shock that could be due to this kind of instability.}, }
@article {pmid28412529, year = {2017}, author = {Manrique, HM and Molina, AC and Posada, S and Colell, M}, title = {Vertical string-pulling in green jays (Cyanocorax yncas).}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {140}, number = {}, pages = {74-80}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2017.04.004}, pmid = {28412529}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Choice Behavior ; Cognition/*physiology ; Conditioning, Operant ; Discrimination Learning ; Female ; Male ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Problem Solving ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; Reinforcement, Psychology ; }, abstract = {The cognition of green jays (Cyanocorax yncas), a non Corvus corvid species, was investigated by using the string-pulling paradigm. Five adult green jays performed a vertical string-pulling task in which they had to retrieve a worm attached to the end of a vertical hanging string while sitting on their perch. In the first experiment, three of the subjects managed to retrieve the worm by pulling on the string with their beaks and stepping on the resulting loop, and thereafter repeating this sequence until the worm was accessible. When subjects were given a choice between two strings in subsequent experiments 2-4, they chose at random between the string connected to the worm and the one connected to a slice of a wooden dowel. In experiment 5, subjects that had failed the previous discrimination series were able, nevertheless, to solve a more stringent vertical string array in which they had to pull up the whole length of the string without any visual access to the worm at the end. We discuss green jays' performance in comparison with other corvid species in which cognition has been more extensively investigated.}, }
@article {pmid28407723, year = {2018}, author = {Huang, Z and Ruan, R}, title = {DNA barcodes and insights into the phylogenetic relationships of Corvidae (Aves: Passeriformes).}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part A, DNA mapping, sequencing, and analysis}, volume = {29}, number = {4}, pages = {529-534}, doi = {10.1080/24701394.2017.1315569}, pmid = {28407723}, issn = {2470-1408}, mesh = {Animals ; *DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic ; Electron Transport Complex IV/*genetics ; Genome, Mitochondrial ; Mitochondria/*enzymology ; Passeriformes/*classification/*genetics ; *Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {DNA barcoding has become a promising tool for species identification and phylogeny in a wide range of animal taxa using mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI). The Corvidae (Aves: Passeriformes) is a species rich and morphologically diverse family. In the present study, we analyzed the COI barcodes of 39 species from 12 genera of Corvidae. COI gene was also used to examine phylogenetic relationships of Corvidae. Every species possessed a barcode distinct from that of other species. Kimura two-parameter distances were calculated between species barcodes. The average genetic distance between the species was 22 times higher compared to the average genetic distance within species. Maximum likelihood method was used to construct a phylogenetic tree. All the species could be discriminated by their distinct clades in the phylogenetic tree. COI gene data provided good evidence for the monophyly of the Corvidae. Members of Cyanopica and Pyrrhocorax were the first to split from the Corvidae lineage. Analysis of COI genes supported the others genera fell into two clades. DNA barcoding is an effective molecular tool for Corvidae species identification and phylogenetic inference.}, }
@article {pmid28406672, year = {2018}, author = {Felez-Nobrega, M and Foster, JL and Puig-Ribera, A and Draheim, C and Hillman, CH}, title = {Measuring working memory in the Spanish population: Validation of a multiple shortened complex span task.}, journal = {Psychological assessment}, volume = {30}, number = {2}, pages = {274-279}, doi = {10.1037/pas0000484}, pmid = {28406672}, issn = {1939-134X}, support = {//FI-AGAUR Predoctoral Research/International ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Reproducibility of Results ; Spain ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Working memory plays a key role in cognition as it is a major predictor of a wide range of higher order abilities and behaviors typical to daily life. Shorter versions of the complex span tasks (CSTs) have been recently developed, allowing for the reduction of test administration time without affecting validity and reliability in the measurement of working memory capacity (WMC). However, these short versions have not been validated for the Spanish-speaking population. The present work aimed to validate an English version of the shortened CSTs into Spanish in a sample of 325 university students (40% female; mean age = 21.04; SD = 2.80). Cronbach's coefficient alpha was computed for each complex span task as an index of internal consistency. Validity evidence was evaluated by comparing participants' scores on the three shortened complex span tasks (operation span, symmetry span, and rotation span) with two measures of reasoning ability (Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices and Number Series) and using confirmatory factor analysis. Results indicated that the short version of the Spanish complex span has satisfying qualities for assessing WMC in a sample of university students, which is an initial step toward providing a valid and standardized method for assessing WMC in the Peninsular Spanish-speaking population. (PsycINFO Database Record}, }
@article {pmid28401527, year = {2017}, author = {Liberato, D and Granato, S and Grimaldi, D and Rossi, FM and Tahani, N and Gianfrilli, D and Anzuini, A and Lenzi, A and Cavaggioni, G and Radicioni, AF}, title = {Fluid intelligence, traits of personality and personality disorders in a cohort of adult KS patients with the classic 47, XXY karyotype.}, journal = {Journal of endocrinological investigation}, volume = {40}, number = {11}, pages = {1191-1199}, pmid = {28401527}, issn = {1720-8386}, mesh = {Adult ; *Chromosomes, Human, X ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Karyotype ; Klinefelter Syndrome/*complications/genetics ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Personality ; Personality Disorders/*etiology ; Phenotype ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: Klinefelter's syndrome (KS) is associated with specific neurobehavioral features and personality traits. The aim of our study was to investigate fluid intelligence, personality traits and personality disorders (PD) and possible correlations with testosterone in a cohort of adult KS patients.<br><br>METHODS: We analyzed 58 adult KS patients with the classic 47, XXY karyotype. The Structured Clinical Interview for axis II disorders was used to assess DSM IV personality disorders. Personality traits were assessed using MMPI-2. Fluid intelligence was tested by using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) Test. Testosterone blood concentration was measured by CMIA.<br><br>RESULTS: PD prevalence was 31%. Four altered MMPI scales (Social Responsibility, Dominance, Ego Strength and Repression) were found in more than 40% of patients. Overcontrolled hostility and MacAndrew Alcoholism Scale-Revised scales were altered in the PD- group only. Biz-Odd Thinking and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder scale were associated with the presence of personality disorder. The raw SPM score was 44&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;10.8 without any significant correlation with testosterone. No significant difference in mean age, SPM raw score and MMPI score was observed between eugonadal, hypogonadal and treated patients.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Most KS patients had average fluid intelligence. PD prevalence was higher than in the general population. Testosterone was not correlated with fluid intelligence, personality traits or PD, but a reduction in marital distress was observed in treated patients. This could suggest that testosterone therapy can improve physical symptoms and this effect could also improve relationship abilities and wellness awareness.}, }
@article {pmid28397327, year = {2018}, author = {Goodman, GJ and Armour, KS and Kolodziejczyk, JK and Santangelo, S and Gallagher, CJ}, title = {Comparison of self-reported signs of facial ageing among Caucasian women in Australia versus those in the USA, the UK and Canada.}, journal = {The Australasian journal of dermatology}, volume = {59}, number = {2}, pages = {108-117}, pmid = {28397327}, issn = {1440-0960}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Australia ; Canada ; Face ; Female ; Health Surveys ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Self Report ; *Skin Aging ; United Kingdom ; United States ; White People/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Australians are more exposed to higher solar UV radiation levels that accelerate signs of facial ageing than individuals who live in temperate northern countries. The severity and course of self-reported facial ageing among fair-skinned Australian women were compared with those living in Canada, the UK and the USA.<br><br>METHODS: Women voluntarily recruited into a proprietary opt-in survey panel completed an internet-based questionnaire about their facial ageing. Participants aged 18-75&#xa0;years compared their features against photonumeric rating scales depicting degrees of severity for forehead, crow's feet and glabellar lines, tear troughs, midface volume loss, nasolabial folds, oral commissures and perioral lines. Data from Caucasian and Asian women with Fitzpatrick skin types I-III were analysed by linear regression for the impact of country (Australia versus Canada, the UK and the USA) on ageing severity for each feature, after controlling for age and race.<br><br>RESULTS: Among 1472 women, Australians reported higher rates of change and significantly more severe facial lines (P&#xa0;&#x2264;&#xa0;0.040) and volume-related features like tear troughs and nasolabial folds (P&#xa0;&#x2264;&#xa0;0.03) than women from the other countries. More Australians also reported moderate to severe ageing for all features one to two decades earlier than US women.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Australian women reported more severe signs of facial ageing sooner than other women and volume-related changes up to 20&#xa0;years earlier than those in the USA, which may suggest that environmental factors also impact volume-related ageing. These findings have implications for managing their facial aesthetic concerns.}, }
@article {pmid28386435, year = {2017}, author = {Matsui, H and Izawa, EI}, title = {Flexible motor adjustment of pecking with an artificially extended bill in crows but not in pigeons.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {4}, number = {2}, pages = {160796}, pmid = {28386435}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {The dextrous foraging skills of primates, including humans, are underpinned by flexible vision-guided control of the arms/hands and even tools as body-part extensions. This capacity involves a visuomotor conversion process that transfers the locations of the hands/arms and a target in retinal coordinates into body coordinates to generate a reaching/grasping movement and to correct online. Similar capacities have evolved in birds, such as tool use in corvids and finches, which represents the flexible motor control of extended body parts. However, the flexibility of avian head-reaching and bill-grasping with body-part extensions remains poorly understood. This study comparatively investigated the flexibility of pecking with an artificially extended bill in crows and pigeons. Pecking performance and kinematics were examined when the bill extension was attached, and after its removal. The bill extension deteriorated pecking in pigeons in both performance and kinematics over 10 days. After the bill removal, pigeons started bill-grasping earlier, indicating motor adaptation to the bill extension. Contrastingly, pecking in crows was deteriorated transiently with the bill extension, but was recovered by adjusting pecking at closer distances, suggesting a quick adjustment to the bill extension. These results indicate flexible visuomotor control to extended body parts in crows but not in pigeons.}, }
@article {pmid28379045, year = {2017}, author = {Davie, C and Clark, AB}, title = {Self-Rehabilitation of a Captive American Crow at Binghamton Zoo.}, journal = {Journal of applied animal welfare science : JAAWS}, volume = {20}, number = {3}, pages = {273-279}, doi = {10.1080/10888705.2017.1307747}, pmid = {28379045}, issn = {1532-7604}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Zoo ; *Crows ; Female ; Flight, Animal/*physiology ; United States ; }, abstract = {The behavioral transition from an entirely unflighted-to-flighted, female yearling American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) in captivity in a specially designed exhibit was documented at the Binghamton Zoo at Ross Park in Binghamton, NY. Upon arrival, the focal crow had no complete primary feathers or retrices and had been in captivity since fledging. She apparently had never flown successfully and was using her legs and an abnormal body orientation to cushion her landing on the ground. In a social and physical environment with 3 flying companion crows and staggered perches, she developed and appeared to "practice" routines that ultimately resulted in her recovering normal body posture and flight ability. The crow's practice routine was recorded during daily observations using an ethogram of social and locomotor behaviors. Both enclosure design and the social environment may have provided an ideal setting for the self-motivation of practice and this recovery. Attention to the potential for such practice could facilitate rehabilitation in individuals for whom rehabilitation was not thought possible.}, }
@article {pmid28364366, year = {2017}, author = {Uomini, N and Hunt, G}, title = {A new tool-using bird to crow about.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {45}, number = {3}, pages = {205-206}, pmid = {28364366}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition ; *Crows ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The Hawaiian crow has been revealed as a skilled tool user, confirmed by testing the last members of this endangered species that survive in captivity. The finding suggests its behavior is tantalizingly similar to that of the famous tool-using New Caledonian crow and has implications for the evolution of tool use and intelligence in birds.}, }
@article {pmid28360231, year = {2017}, author = {Weissensteiner, MH and Pang, AWC and Bunikis, I and Höijer, I and Vinnere-Petterson, O and Suh, A and Wolf, JBW}, title = {Combination of short-read, long-read, and optical mapping assemblies reveals large-scale tandem repeat arrays with population genetic implications.}, journal = {Genome research}, volume = {27}, number = {5}, pages = {697-708}, pmid = {28360231}, issn = {1549-5469}, mesh = {Animals ; Chromatin/genetics/metabolism ; Contig Mapping/methods/*standards ; Crows/genetics ; *Genome ; Homologous Recombination ; Sequence Analysis, DNA/methods/standards ; *Tandem Repeat Sequences ; }, abstract = {Accurate and contiguous genome assembly is key to a comprehensive understanding of the processes shaping genomic diversity and evolution. Yet, it is frequently constrained by constitutive heterochromatin, usually characterized by highly repetitive DNA. As a key feature of genome architecture associated with centromeric and subtelomeric regions, it locally influences meiotic recombination. In this study, we assess the impact of large tandem repeat arrays on the recombination rate landscape in an avian speciation model, the Eurasian crow. We assembled two high-quality genome references using single-molecule real-time sequencing (long-read assembly [LR]) and single-molecule optical maps (optical map assembly [OM]). A three-way comparison including the published short-read assembly (SR) constructed for the same individual allowed assessing assembly properties and pinpointing misassemblies. By combining information from all three assemblies, we characterized 36 previously unidentified large repetitive regions in the proximity of sequence assembly breakpoints, the majority of which contained complex arrays of a 14-kb satellite repeat or its 1.2-kb subunit. Using whole-genome population resequencing data, we estimated the population-scaled recombination rate (ρ) and found it to be significantly reduced in these regions. These findings are consistent with an effect of low recombination in regions adjacent to centromeric or subtelomeric heterochromatin and add to our understanding of the processes generating widespread heterogeneity in genetic diversity and differentiation along the genome. By combining three different technologies, our results highlight the importance of adding a layer of information on genome structure that is inaccessible to each approach independently.}, }
@article {pmid28357814, year = {2017}, author = {Dresow, MW}, title = {Before hierarchy: the rise and fall of Stephen Jay Gould's first macroevolutionary synthesis.}, journal = {History and philosophy of the life sciences}, volume = {39}, number = {2}, pages = {6}, doi = {10.1007/s40656-017-0133-6}, pmid = {28357814}, issn = {0391-9714}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Biology/*history ; Fossils/anatomy &amp; histology ; History, 20th Century ; Philosophy/*history ; United States ; }, abstract = {Few of Stephen Jay Gould's accomplishments in evolutionary biology have received more attention than his hierarchical theory of evolution, which postulates a causal discontinuity between micro- and macroevolutionary events. But Gould's hierarchical theory was his second attempt to supply a theoretical framework for macroevolutionary studies-and one he did not inaugurate until the mid-1970s. In this paper, I examine Gould's first attempt: a proposed fusion of theoretical morphology, multivariate biometry and the experimental study of adaptation in fossils. This early "macroevolutionary synthesis" was predicated on the notion that parallelism and convergence dominate the history of higher taxa, and moreover, that they can be explained in terms of adaptation leading to mechanical improvement. In this paper, I explore the origins and contents of Gould's first macroevolutionary synthesis, as well as the reasons for its downfall. In addition, I consider how various developments during the mid-1970s led Gould to identify hierarchy and constraint as the leading themes of macroevolutionary studies-and adaptation as a macroevolutionary red herring.}, }
@article {pmid28356589, year = {2017}, author = {}, title = {Jay Bradner.}, journal = {Nature reviews. Drug discovery}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {232-233}, doi = {10.1038/nrd.2017.50}, pmid = {28356589}, issn = {1474-1784}, mesh = {Drug Delivery Systems/*trends ; Drug Discovery/methods/*trends ; Drug Industry/methods/*trends ; Hematology/methods/trends ; Humans ; }, }
@article {pmid28355292, year = {2017}, author = {Majkić, A and Evans, S and Stepanchuk, V and Tsvelykh, A and d'Errico, F}, title = {A decorated raven bone from the Zaskalnaya VI (Kolosovskaya) Neanderthal site, Crimea.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, pages = {e0173435}, pmid = {28355292}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Archaeology/methods ; Bone and Bones/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Crows/anatomy &amp; histology ; *Fossils ; History, Ancient ; Humans ; Microscopy ; Multivariate Analysis ; Neanderthals/*psychology ; Paleontology/methods ; Russia ; }, abstract = {We analyze a radius bone fragment of a raven (Corvus corax) from Zaskalnaya VI rock shelter, Crimea. The object bears seven notches and comes from an archaeological level attributed to a Micoquian industry dated to between 38 and 43 cal kyr BP. Our study aims to examine the degree of regularity and intentionality of this set of notches through their technological and morphometric analysis, complemented by comparative experimental work. Microscopic analysis of the notches indicate that they were produced by the to-and-fro movement of a lithic cutting edge and that two notches were added to fill in the gap left between previously cut notches, probably to increase the visual consistency of the pattern. Multivariate analysis of morphometric data recorded on the archaeological notches and sets of notches cut by nine modern experimenters on radii of domestic turkeys shows that the variations recorded on the Zaskalnaya set are comparable to experimental sets made with the aim of producing similar, parallel, equidistant notches. Identification of the Weber Fraction, the constant that accounts for error in human perception, for equidistant notches cut on bone rods and its application to the Zaskalnaya set of notches and thirty-six sets of notches incised on seventeen Upper Palaeolithic bone objects from seven sites indicate that the Zaskalnaya set falls within the range of variation of regularly spaced experimental and Upper Palaeolithic sets of notches. This suggests that even if the production of the notches may have had a utilitarian reason the notches were made with the goal of producing a visually consistent pattern. This object represents the first instance of a bird bone from a Neanderthal site bearing modifications that cannot be explained as the result of butchery activities and for which a symbolic argument can be built on direct rather than circumstantial evidence.}, }
@article {pmid28350846, year = {2017}, author = {Szymańska-Czerwińska, M and Mitura, A and Niemczuk, K and Zaręba, K and Jodełko, A and Pluta, A and Scharf, S and Vitek, B and Aaziz, R and Vorimore, F and Laroucau, K and Schnee, C}, title = {Dissemination and genetic diversity of chlamydial agents in Polish wildfowl: Isolation and molecular characterisation of avian Chlamydia abortus strains.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, pages = {e0174599}, pmid = {28350846}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/*microbiology ; Bacterial Outer Membrane Proteins/genetics ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*microbiology/transmission ; Birds/*microbiology ; Chlamydia/classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Chlamydia Infections/epidemiology/*microbiology/transmission ; DNA, Ribosomal Spacer/genetics ; *Genetic Variation ; Genotype ; Geography ; Phylogeny ; Poland/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 23S/genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA/methods ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Wild birds are considered as a reservoir for avian chlamydiosis posing a potential infectious threat to domestic poultry and humans. Analysis of 894 cloacal or fecal swabs from free-living birds in Poland revealed an overall Chlamydiaceae prevalence of 14.8% (n = 132) with the highest prevalence noted in Anatidae (19.7%) and Corvidae (13.4%). Further testing conducted with species-specific real-time PCR showed that 65 samples (49.2%) were positive for C. psittaci whereas only one was positive for C. avium. To classify the non-identified chlamydial agents and to genotype the C. psittaci and C. avium-positive samples, specimens were subjected to ompA-PCR and sequencing (n = 83). The ompA-based NJ dendrogram revealed that only 23 out of 83 sequences were assigned to C. psittaci, in particular to four clades representing the previously described C. psittaci genotypes B, C, Mat116 and 1V. Whereas the 59 remaining sequences were assigned to two new clades named G1 and G2, each one including sequences recently obtained from chlamydiae detected in Swedish wetland birds. G1 (18 samples from Anatidae and Rallidae) grouped closely together with genotype 1V and in relative proximity to several C. abortus isolates, and G2 (41 samples from Anatidae and Corvidae) grouped closely to C. psittaci strains of the classical ABE cluster, Matt116 and M56. Finally, deep molecular analysis of four representative isolates of genotypes 1V, G1 and G2 based on 16S rRNA, IGS and partial 23S rRNA sequences as well as MLST clearly classify these isolates within the C. abortus species. Consequently, we propose an expansion of the C. abortus species to include not only the classical isolates of mammalian origin, but also avian isolates so far referred to as atypical C. psittaci or C. psittaci/C. abortus intermediates.}, }
@article {pmid28343746, year = {2018}, author = {Freeto, T and Mitchell, SJ and Bogie, KM}, title = {Preliminary development of an advanced modular pressure relief cushion: Testing and user evaluation.}, journal = {Journal of tissue viability}, volume = {27}, number = {1}, pages = {2-9}, doi = {10.1016/j.jtv.2017.03.001}, pmid = {28343746}, issn = {0965-206X}, mesh = {Equipment Design/standards ; Humans ; *Industrial Development ; Materials Testing/*methods ; Pressure/adverse effects ; Pressure Ulcer/prevention &amp; control ; Self-Help Devices/*standards/trends ; Wheelchairs/*standards ; World Health Organization/organization &amp; administration ; }, abstract = {STUDY AIM: Effective pressure relief cushions are identified as a core assistive technology need by the World Health Organization Global Cooperation on Assistive Technology. High quality affordable wheelchair cushions could provide effective pressure relief for many individuals with limited access to advanced assistive technology.<br><br>MATERIALS: Value driven engineering (VdE) principles were employed to develop a prototype modular cushion. Low cost dynamically responsive gel balls were arranged in a close packed array and seated in bilayer foam for containment and support. Two modular cushions, one with high compliance balls and one with moderate compliance balls were compared with High Profile and Low Profile Roho[&#xae;] and Jay[&#xae;] Medical 2 cushions.<br><br>METHODS: ISO 16480-2 biomechanical standardized tests were applied to assess cushion performance. A preliminary materials cost analysis was carried out. A prototype modular cushion was evaluated by 12 participants who reported satisfaction using a questionnaire based on the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST 2.0) instrument.<br><br>RESULTS: Overall the modular cushions performed better than, or on par with, the most widely prescribed commercially available cushions under ISO 16480-2 testing. Users rated the modular cushion highly for overall appearance, size and dimensions, comfort, safety, stability, ease of adjustment and general ease of use. Cost-analysis indicated that every modular cushion component a could be replaced several times and still maintain cost-efficacy over the complete cushion lifecycle.<br><br>CONCLUSION: A VdE modular cushion has the potential provide effective pressure relief for many users at a low lifetime cost.}, }
@article {pmid28336913, year = {2017}, author = {Loretto, MC and Schuster, R and Itty, C and Marchand, P and Genero, F and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Fission-fusion dynamics over large distances in raven non-breeders.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {380}, pmid = {28336913}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {P 29705/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Crows ; Europe ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {The influence of fission-fusion dynamics, i.e., temporal variation in group size and composition, on social complexity has been studied in large-brained mammals that rely on social bonds. Little is known about birds, even though some species like ravens have recently received attention for their socio-cognitive skills and use of social bonds. While raven breeders defend territories year-round, non-breeders roam through large areas and form groups at food sources or night roosts. We here examined the fission-fusion patterns of non-breeding ravens over years, investigating whether birds meet repeatedly either at the same or at different locations. We combined four large datasets: presence-absence observations from two study sites (Austria, Italy) and GPS-tracking of ravens across two study areas (Austria, France). As expected, we found a highly dynamic system in which individuals with long phases of temporary settlement had a high probability of meeting others. Although GPS-tagged ravens spread out over thousands of square kilometres, we found repeated associations between almost half of the possible combinations at different locations. Such a system makes repeated interactions between individuals at different sites possible and likely. High fission-fusion dynamics may thus not hinder but shape the social complexity of ravens and, possibly, other long-term bonded birds.}, }
@article {pmid28334859, year = {2017}, author = {Iloh, KK and Emodi, IJ and Ibeziako, NS and Ikefuna, AN and Ubesie, AC and Iloh, ON and Ilechukwu, GC and Ayuk, AC}, title = {Neurocognitive Function of School-aged HIV-infected Children in Enugu, Nigeria.}, journal = {Journal of tropical pediatrics}, volume = {63}, number = {6}, pages = {425-430}, doi = {10.1093/tropej/fmx006}, pmid = {28334859}, issn = {1465-3664}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Evidence has shown neurocognitive problems often exist among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected children. There are limited data for children in Nigeria.<br><br>METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study of 100 school-aged perinatally HIV-infected children seen in the paediatric HIV clinic and age/sex-matched controls from the general paediatric clinic. Neuro-cognitive functioning was assessed using the Raven's progressive matrices (RPM) that has been adapted for the Nigerian population.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean RPM score of subjects was 22.97&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;11.35 compared with 32.93&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;15.71 among controls (p < 0.001). Twenty-two percent of subjects in the HIV-infected group vs. 56% of controls were in the above-average intelligence group on the RPM. Thirty-four percent had average scores, while 22% were in the below-average scoring range. Neuro-cognitive functioning of the subjects was significantly affected by immunologic staging and socio-economic status.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Neurocognitive functioning of the HIV-infected children was significantly lower than those of their un-infected counterparts. Neurodevelopmental evaluation should be part of standard care in HIV-infected children in Nigerian setting.}, }
@article {pmid28327578, year = {2017}, author = {Langin, KM and Sillett, TS and Funk, WC and Morrison, SA and Ghalambor, CK}, title = {Partial support for the central-marginal hypothesis within a population: reduced genetic diversity but not increased differentiation at the range edge of an island endemic bird.}, journal = {Heredity}, volume = {119}, number = {1}, pages = {8-15}, pmid = {28327578}, issn = {1365-2540}, mesh = {Animal Distribution ; Animals ; California ; Evolution, Molecular ; Gene Flow ; Genetic Drift ; *Genetic Variation ; *Genetics, Population ; Genotype ; Islands ; Microsatellite Repeats ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Population Density ; Spatial Analysis ; }, abstract = {Large-scale population comparisons have contributed to our understanding of the evolution of geographic range limits and species boundaries, as well as the conservation value of populations at range margins. The central-marginal hypothesis (CMH) predicts a decline in genetic diversity and an increase in genetic differentiation toward the periphery of species' ranges due to spatial variation in genetic drift and gene flow. Empirical studies on a diverse array of taxa have demonstrated support for the CMH. However, nearly all such studies come from widely distributed species, and have not considered if the same processes can be scaled down to single populations. Here, we test the CMH on a species composed of a single population: the Island Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma insularis), endemic to a 250 km[2] island. We examined microsatellite data from a quarter of the total population and found that homozygosity increased toward the island's periphery. However, peripheral portions of the island did not exhibit higher genetic differentiation. Simulations revealed that highly localized dispersal and small total population size, but not spatial variation in population density, were critical for generating fine-scale variation in homozygosity. Collectively, these results demonstrate that microevolutionary processes driving spatial variation in genetic diversity among populations can also be important for generating spatial variation in genetic diversity within populations.}, }
@article {pmid28324206, year = {2017}, author = {Kobayashi, A and Miura, S and Kozaki, A}, title = {INDETERMINATE DOMAIN PROTEIN binding sequences in the 5'-untranslated region and promoter of the SCARECROW gene play crucial and distinct roles in regulating SCARECROW expression in roots and leaves.}, journal = {Plant molecular biology}, volume = {94}, number = {1-2}, pages = {1-13}, pmid = {28324206}, issn = {1573-5028}, mesh = {Arabidopsis/cytology/genetics/*metabolism ; Arabidopsis Proteins/genetics/*metabolism ; Carrier Proteins/genetics/*metabolism ; Cells, Cultured ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant/physiology ; Mutation ; Plant Leaves/*metabolism ; Plant Roots/*metabolism ; Promoter Regions, Genetic ; Protein Binding ; Transcription Factors/genetics/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {SCARECROW (SCR) and SHORT-ROOT (SHR), which belong to the GRAS transcription factor family, are key regulators of root and leaf growth and development. Despite the importance of SCR expression for proper plant development, the mechanism of SCR regulation has not been clarified. A previous study showed that an INDETERMINATE DOMAIN transcription factor, JACKDAW (JKD), is essential for the expression of SCR in combination with SCR and SHR. In this study, we characterized possible binding sequences of INDETERMINATE DOMAIN PROTEIN in the 1.5 kb upstream region of SCR. Mutation in a binding sequence 340 bp upstream of the ATG increased transcriptional activation by JKD in transient assays using Arabidopsis cultured cells. However, the activity was not enhanced by SCR/SHR. Histochemical analysis of promoter activity in transgenic Arabidopsis plants carrying a fusion of the promoter and the β-glucronidase reporter gene showed that mutation of the -340 bp sequence eliminated most of the promoter activity, indicating that this sequence was indispensable for SCR expression. Promoter deletion of downstream sequences from -280 bp lost the enhanced activity by SCR/SHR in transient assays and activity in root tips and the bundle sheath (BS) in plants. Conversely, mutation at -480 bp did not significantly influence transcriptional activity in transient assays. However, most of SCR expression was lost except for the root tip in plants. The sequences around -1 kb appeared to regulate SCR expression negatively in plants. Together, these INDETERMINATE DOMAIN PROTEIN binding sequences have crucial and distinct functions in regulating SCR expression.}, }
@article {pmid28323477, year = {2017}, author = {Adler, JL}, title = {"The Service I Rendered Was Just as True": African American Soldiers and Veterans as Activist Patients.}, journal = {American journal of public health}, volume = {107}, number = {5}, pages = {675-683}, pmid = {28323477}, issn = {1541-0048}, mesh = {Black or African American/*history ; Health Policy/history ; History, 20th Century ; Hospitals, Military/*history ; Humans ; Male ; Military Personnel/*history ; Patient Advocacy/*history ; Prejudice/*history ; United States ; Veterans/*history ; World War I ; }, abstract = {In this article, I examine how African American soldiers and veterans experienced and shaped federally sponsored health care during and after World War I. Building on studies of the struggles of Black leaders and health care providers to win professional and public health advancement in the 1920s and 1930s, and of advocates to mobilize for health care rights in the mid-20th century, I focus primarily on the experiences and activism of patients in the interwar years. Private and government correspondence, congressional testimony, and reports from Black newspapers reveal that African American soldiers and veterans communicated directly with policymakers and bureaucrats regarding unequal treatment, assuming roles as "policy actors" who viewed health and medical care as "politics by other means." In the process, they drew attention to the paradoxes inherent in expanding government entitlements in the era of Jim Crow, and helped shape a veterans' health system that emerged in the 1920s and remained in place for the following century. They also laid the groundwork for the system's precedent-setting desegregation, referred to by advocates of the time as "a shining example to the rest of the country."}, }
@article {pmid28322130, year = {2017}, author = {Ginex, V and Veronelli, L and Vanacore, N and Lacorte, E and Monti, A and Corbo, M}, title = {Motor recovery in post-stroke patients with aphasia: the role of specific linguistic abilities.}, journal = {Topics in stroke rehabilitation}, volume = {24}, number = {6}, pages = {428-434}, doi = {10.1080/10749357.2017.1305654}, pmid = {28322130}, issn = {1945-5119}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aphasia/classification/*etiology/*rehabilitation ; Cognition Disorders/etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Linear Models ; *Linguistics ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Recovery of Function/*physiology ; Retrospective Studies ; Speech Therapy/methods ; Stroke/*complications ; *Stroke Rehabilitation ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Aphasia is a serious consequence of stroke but aphasics patients have been routinely excluded from participation in some areas of stroke research.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To assess the role of specific linguistic and non-verbal cognitive abilities on the short-term motor recovery of patients with aphasia due to first-ever stroke to the left hemisphere after an intensive rehabilitation treatment.<br><br>METHODS: 48 post-acute aphasic patients, who underwent physiotherapy and speech language therapy, were enrolled for this retrospective cohort-study. Four types of possible predictive factors were taken into account: clinical variables, functional status, language and non-verbal cognitive abilities. The motor FIM at discharge was used as the main dependent variable.<br><br>RESULTS: Patients were classified as follows: 6 amnestic, 9 Broca's, 7 Wernicke's, and 26 global aphasics. Motor FIM at admission (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.003) and at discharge (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.042), all linguistic subtests of Aachener AphasieTest (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.001), and non-verbal reasoning abilities (Raven's CPM, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.006) resulted significantly different across different types of aphasia. Post-hoc analyses showed differences only between global aphasia and the other groups. A Multiple Linear Regression shows that admission motor FIM (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.001) and Token test (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.040), adjusted for clinical, language, and non-verbal reasoning variables, resulted as independent predictors of motor FIM scores at discharge, while Raven's CPM resulted close to statistical significance.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Motor function at admission resulted as the variable that most affects the motor recovery of post-stroke patients with aphasia after rehabilitation. A linguistic test requiring also non-linguistic abilities, including attention and working memory (i.e. Token test) is an independent predictor as well.}, }
@article {pmid28314903, year = {2017}, author = {Fucci, N and Campobasso, CP and Mastrogiuseppe, L and Puccinelli, C and Marcheggiani, S and Mancini, L and Marino, L and Pascali, VL}, title = {Diatoms in drowning cases in forensic veterinary context: a preliminary study.}, journal = {International journal of legal medicine}, volume = {131}, number = {6}, pages = {1573-1580}, pmid = {28314903}, issn = {1437-1596}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Bone Marrow/pathology ; Brain/pathology ; Deer ; Diatoms/*isolation &amp; purification ; Drowning/*veterinary ; Forensic Pathology/*methods ; Hydrogen Peroxide ; Kidney/pathology ; Liver/pathology ; Lung/pathology ; Myocardium/pathology ; Otters ; Spleen/pathology ; }, abstract = {In this preliminary study, a digestive method used in forensic context to extract diatoms has been applied in organs taken from ten wildlife animals belonging three species of mammals (a deer, a roe and five otters) and one species of birds (two magpies). Only four carcasses were recovered from aquatic environments (bath trough for animals, bathtub irrigation, river) and only in three cases out of ten that the cause of death was ruled out as drowning. In seven cases, the death was due to other causes: gunshot injuries for one otter, blunt trauma for a magpie, and traumatic injuries followed by motor vehicle collision in other four otters and a roe. Post-mortem examination was performed in all carcasses. The diatom test protocol was performed according to the Italian guidelines for analysis of benthic diatoms for ecological status assessment of inland waters. Five grams of lung, liver, and kidney was taken from all the animal carcasses. In some cases, additional tissue samples were also available among which brain, heart, spleen, and bone marrow. In all four cases found in water, the drowning medium was also available. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) digestion was performed, and identification of 21 genera of diatoms was obtained. The method proved to be suitable for the identification of diatoms in the organs of the animals drowned supporting the final diagnosis of drowning. Only in otters, all died for causes other than drowning, diatoms did not prove to be suitable for the diagnosis of drowning since their presence in the internal organs was mainly related to their main diet based on fishmeal. The authors believe that this first trial is very promising, and the results suggest that diatom test can be easily applied in forensic veterinary context.}, }
@article {pmid28303393, year = {2017}, author = {Castro, J and Molina-Morales, M and Leverkus, AB and Martínez-Baroja, L and Pérez-Camacho, L and Villar-Salvador, P and Rebollo, S and Rey-Benayas, JM}, title = {Effective nut dispersal by magpies (Pica pica L.) in a Mediterranean agroecosystem.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {184}, number = {1}, pages = {183-192}, pmid = {28303393}, issn = {1432-1939}, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior ; *Nuts ; *Pica ; Rodentia ; Seed Dispersal ; Seeds ; }, abstract = {Scatter-hoarding animals such as corvids play a crucial role in the dispersal of nut-producing tree species. This interaction is well known for some corvids, but remains elusive for other species such as the magpie (Pica pica), an abundant corvid in agroecosystems and open landscapes of the Palearctic region. In addition, the establishment of the individual dispersed seeds-a prerequisite for determining seed-dispersal effectiveness-has never before been documented for the interaction between corvids and nut-producing trees. We analyzed walnut dispersal by magpies in an agroecosystem in southern Spain. We used several complementary approaches, including video recording nut removal from feeders, measuring dispersal distance using radio tracking (with radio transmitters placed inside nuts), and monitoring the fate of dispersed nuts to the time of seedling emergence. Magpies were shown to be highly active nut dispersers. The dispersal distance averaged 39.6 ± 4.5 m and ranged from 4.1 to 158.5 m. Some 90% of the removed walnuts were cached later, and most of these (98%) were buried in the soil or hidden under plant material. By the time of seedling emergence, ca. 33% of nuts remained at the caching location. Finally, 12% of the cached nuts germinated and 4% yielded an emerged seedling, facilitating the transition to the next regeneration stage. The results demonstrate for the first time that magpies can be an effective scatter-hoarding disperser of a nut-producing tree species, suggesting that this bird species may play a key role in the regeneration and expansion of broadleaf forests in Eurasia.}, }
@article {pmid28295411, year = {2017}, author = {Flament, F and Pierre, J and Delhommeau, K and Adam, AS}, title = {How a working day-induced-tiredness may alter some facial signs in differently-aged Caucasian women.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {39}, number = {5}, pages = {467-475}, doi = {10.1111/ics.12398}, pmid = {28295411}, issn = {1468-2494}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Face ; *Fatigue ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Paris ; *Self Concept ; *Skin Aging ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; White People ; *Work ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To assess the alterations of some facial clinical signs after a working day in French Caucasian women.<br><br>METHODS: Standardized photographs of full faces of 111 women of two different age classes were taken before and after a working day. Photos were submitted in blind (morning or evening) to a panel of 10 experts for scoring the severity of eight different facial signs using specific scales as established by previously published referential skin atlases. A panel of 60 na&#xef;ve women gave their assessment of the overall look (more or less tired, aged, dull) from paired (morning/evening) photos given in blind. Subjects under study were asked to fill a questionnaire about their perceived state of tiredness before and after a normal working day.<br><br>RESULTS: All subjects felt a little more tired at evening although, surprisingly a little less in the older group (55-65 year) than their younger counterparts (25-35 year). Both groups were judged slightly less 'young' and 'more tired' at evening by the assessment panel, whereas the dull aspect remained unaltered. Four facial signs, among the 8 scored, showed subtle but significant changes, according to age class. Among older women, eye bags improved at evening as compared to morning, whereas glabellar wrinkles were found slightly accentuated. In younger subjects, nasolabial fold and crow's feet wrinkles were found of an aggravated severity score.<br><br>CONCLUSION: A normal working day induces, in the studied women, slight but detectable changes in some facial signs that vary (location, intensity) according to age.}, }
@article {pmid28287785, year = {2017}, author = {Thorvaldsson, V and Skoog, I and Johansson, B}, title = {IQ as moderator of terminal decline in perceptual and motor speed, spatial, and verbal ability: Testing the cognitive reserve hypothesis in a population-based sample followed from age 70 until death.}, journal = {Psychology and aging}, volume = {32}, number = {2}, pages = {148-157}, doi = {10.1037/pag0000150}, pmid = {28287785}, issn = {1939-1498}, support = {P01 AG043362/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*physiology/psychology ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/epidemiology/psychology ; Cognitive Reserve/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Motor Skills/*physiology ; Perception/physiology ; Population Surveillance/methods ; Registries ; Spatial Behavior/*physiology ; Sweden/epidemiology ; Verbal Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Terminal decline (TD) refers to acceleration in within-person cognitive decline prior to death. The cognitive reserve hypothesis postulates that individuals with higher IQ are able to better tolerate age-related increase in brain pathologies. On average, they will exhibit a later onset of TD, but once they start to decline, their trajectory is steeper relative to those with lower IQ. We tested these predictions using data from initially nondemented individuals (n = 179) in the H70-study repeatedly measured at ages 70, 75, 79, 81, 85, 88, 90, 92, 95, 97, 99, and 100, or until death, on cognitive tests of perceptual-and-motor-speed and spatial and verbal ability. We quantified IQ using the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test administrated at age 70. We fitted random change point TD models to the data, within a Bayesian framework, conditioned on IQ, age of death, education, and sex. In line with predictions, we found that 1 additional standard deviation on the IQ scale was associated with a delay in onset of TD by 1.87 (95% highest density interval [HDI; 0.20, 4.08]) years on speed, 1.96 (95% HDI [0.15, 3.54]) years on verbal ability, but only 0.88 (95% HDI [-0.93, 3.49]) year on spatial ability. Higher IQ was associated with steeper rate of decline within the TD phase on measures of speed and verbal ability, whereas results on spatial ability were nonconclusive. Our findings provide partial support for the cognitive reserve hypothesis and demonstrate that IQ can be a significant moderator of cognitive change trajectories in old age. (PsycINFO Database Record}, }
@article {pmid28285083, year = {2017}, author = {Boucher, SC}, title = {Gould on species, metaphysics and macroevolution: A critical appraisal.}, journal = {Studies in history and philosophy of biological and biomedical sciences}, volume = {62}, number = {}, pages = {25-34}, doi = {10.1016/j.shpsc.2017.02.004}, pmid = {28285083}, issn = {1879-2499}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; *Metaphysics ; Paleontology ; Philosophy ; United States ; }, abstract = {Stephen Jay Gould's views on the ontology of species were an important plank of his revisionist program in evolutionary theory. In this paper I cast a critical eye over those views. I focus on three central aspects of Gould's views on species: the relation between the Darwinian and the metaphysical notions of individuality, the relation between the ontology of species and macroevolution, and the issue of contextualism and conventionalism about the metaphysics of species.}, }
@article {pmid28278304, year = {2017}, author = {Jamnadass, ES and Keelan, JA and Russell-Smith, SN and Hickey, M and Maybery, MT and Whitehouse, AJ}, title = {Umbilical cord androgens and estrogens in relation to verbal and nonverbal abilities at age 10 in the general population.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, pages = {e0173493}, pmid = {28278304}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adult ; Androgens/*metabolism ; Child ; Estrogens/*metabolism ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Nonverbal Communication/*physiology ; Pregnancy ; Sex Characteristics ; Umbilical Cord/*metabolism ; Verbal Behavior/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Sex differences in verbal and nonverbal abilities are a contentious area of research. Prenatal steroids have been shown to have masculinizing effects on the brain that may affect the development of nonverbal and verbal abilities in later life. The current study examined a wide range of biologically active sex steroids (both androgens and estrogens) in umbilical cord blood at birth in a large pregnancy cohort in relation to performance on nonverbal (Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices) and verbal (Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals-3 and the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-III) measures at age 10 years. Overall, Androgen and Estrogen composites in cord blood were not found to be predictive of performance on verbal and nonverbal measures at age 10. These data suggest that late gestation sex steroids do not exert a major effect on nonverbal and verbal abilities in middle childhood.}, }
@article {pmid28276133, year = {2017}, author = {Jamborova, I and Dolejska, M and Zurek, L and Townsend, AK and Clark, AB and Ellis, JC and Papousek, I and Cizek, A and Literak, I}, title = {Plasmid-mediated resistance to cephalosporins and quinolones in Escherichia coli from American crows in the USA.}, journal = {Environmental microbiology}, volume = {19}, number = {5}, pages = {2025-2036}, doi = {10.1111/1462-2920.13722}, pmid = {28276133}, issn = {1462-2920}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents ; Bacterial Proteins/*genetics ; Bird Diseases/microbiology ; Cefotaxime/*pharmacology ; Ciprofloxacin/*pharmacology ; Crows/*microbiology ; Electrophoresis, Gel, Pulsed-Field ; Escherichia coli/*drug effects/*genetics ; Escherichia coli Infections ; Escherichia coli Proteins/*genetics ; Humans ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; Plasmids/genetics ; United States ; beta-Lactamases/*genetics ; }, abstract = {American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) faeces were tested for Escherichia coli with plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR), extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) and AmpC beta-lactamases. A total of 590 faecal samples were collected at four roosting sites in the USA and cultivated on selective media. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) were performed to assess clonality. Transferability of resistance genes was studied using conjugation and transformation bioassays. In total, 78 (13%, n = 590) cefotaxime-resistant isolates were obtained, of which 66 and 12 displayed AmpC and ESBL phenotypes, respectively. Fifty-four AmpC-producing isolates carried blaCMY-2 . Isolates producing ESBLs contained genes blaCTX-M-27 (5 isolates), blaCTX-M-15 (4), blaCTX-M-14 (2) and blaCTX-M-1 (1). Ninety isolates (15%, n = 590) with reduced susceptibility to ciprofloxacin were obtained, among which 14 harboured PMQR genes aac(6')-Ib-cr (4 isolates), qnrB19 (3), qnrS1 (2), qnrA1 (2), qnrB2 (1), qnrB6 (1) and qnrD3 (1). High genetic diversity was revealed by PFGE and MLST. Epidemiologically important E. coli clones (e.g., ST131, ST405) were identified. Plasmids carrying blaCMY-2 were assigned predominantly to IncA/C (8 plasmids), IncI1/ST23 (5) and IncI1/ST12 (3). The study demonstrates a widespread occurrence of E. coli with ESBL, AmpC and PMQR genes associated with clinically important multidrug-resistant clones and epidemic plasmids, in American crows.}, }
@article {pmid28275208, year = {2017}, author = {Fox, JW and Gutiérrez, JM}, title = {Understanding the Snake Venom Metalloproteinases: An Interview with Jay Fox and José María Gutiérrez.}, journal = {Toxins}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/toxins9010033}, pmid = {28275208}, issn = {2072-6651}, mesh = {*Biomedical Research/history ; Career Choice ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Metalloproteases/history/*metabolism ; Reptilian Proteins/history/*metabolism ; Snake Bites/*enzymology/history ; Snake Venoms/*enzymology/history ; }, abstract = {Jay W. Fox and José María Gutiérrez recently finished editing a Special Issue on the topic "Snake Venom Metalloproteinases" in Toxins. The Special Issue covers a wide range of topics, including the molecular evolution and structure of snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs), the mechanisms involved in the generation of diversity of SVMPs, the mechanism of action of SVMPs, and their role in the pathophysiology of envenomings, with implications for improving the therapy of envenomings. In this interview, we discussed with Jay W. Fox and José María Gutiérrez their research on the SVMPs and their perspectives on the future trends and challenges for studying snake venoms.}, }
@article {pmid28266742, year = {2017}, author = {Houser, T and Zerweck, C and Grove, G and Wickett, R}, title = {Shadow analysis via the C+K Visioline: A technical note.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {447-451}, doi = {10.1111/srt.12354}, pmid = {28266742}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Dermoscopy/*instrumentation ; Equipment Design ; Face/*pathology ; Humans ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Skin Aging/*pathology ; Surface Properties ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: This research investigated the ability of shadow analysis (via the Courage + Khazaka Visioline and Image Pro Premiere 9.0 software) to accurately assess the differences in skin topography associated with photo aging.<br><br>METHODS: Analyses were performed on impressions collected from a microfinish comparator scale (GAR Electroforming) as well a series of impressions collected from the crow's feet region of 9 women who represent each point on the Zerweck Crow's Feet classification scale. Analyses were performed using a Courage + Khazaka Visioline VL 650 as well as Image Pro Premiere 9.0 software.<br><br>RESULTS: Shadow analysis showed an ability to accurately measure the groove depth when measuring impressions collected from grooves of known depth. Several shadow analysis parameters showed a correlation with the expert grader ratings of crow's feet when averaging measurements taken from the North and South directions. The Max Depth parameter in particular showed a strong correlation with the expert grader's ratings which improved when a more sophisticated analysis was performed using Image Pro Premiere.<br><br>CONCLUSION: When used properly, shadow analysis is effective at accurately measuring skin surface impressions for differences in skin topography. Shadow analysis is shown to accurately assess the differences across a range of crow's feet severity correlating to a 0-8 grader scale. The Visioline VL 650 is a good tool for this measurement, with room for improvement in analysis which can be achieved through third party image analysis software.}, }
@article {pmid28263620, year = {2017}, author = {Marhounová, L and Frynta, D and Fuchs, R and Landová, E}, title = {Object permanence in the food-storing coal tit (Periparus ater) and the non-storing great tit (Parus major): Is the mental representation required?.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {131}, number = {2}, pages = {115-127}, doi = {10.1037/com0000061}, pmid = {28263620}, issn = {1939-2087}, mesh = {Animals ; Coal ; Cognition/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; *Food ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Object permanence is a cognitive ability that enables animals to mentally represent the continuous existence of temporarily hidden objects. Generally, it develops gradually through six qualitative stages, the evolution of which may be connected with some specific ecological and behavioral factors. In birds, the advanced object permanence skills were reported in several storing species of the Corvidae family. In order to test the association between food-storing and achieved performance within the stages, we compared food-storing coal tits (Periparus ater) and nonstoring great tits (Parus major) using an adapted version of Uzgiris &amp; Hunt's Scale 1 tasks. The coal tits significantly outperformed the great tits in searching for completely hidden objects. Most of the great tits could not solve the task when the object disappeared completely. However, the upper limit for both species is likely to be Stage 4. The coal tits could solve problems with simply hidden objects, but they used alternative strategies rather than mental representation when searching for completely hidden objects, especially if choosing between two locations. Our results also suggest that neophobia did not affect the overall performance in the object permanence tasks. (PsycINFO Database Record}, }
@article {pmid28261449, year = {2017}, author = {Meyrier, E and Jenni, L and Bötsch, Y and Strebel, S and Erne, B and Tablado, Z}, title = {Happy to breed in the city? Urban food resources limit reproductive output in Western Jackdaws.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {7}, number = {5}, pages = {1363-1374}, pmid = {28261449}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {Urban areas expand worldwide, transforming landscapes and creating new challenging habitats. Some bird species, mainly omnivorous feeding on human waste and cavity nesters, commonly breed in these habitats and are, therefore, regarded as urban-adapted. Although urban areas may provide new nesting sites and abundant human waste, the low breeding success found in some of these species suggests that the poor protein content in human waste might limit breeding parameters. We investigated whether the breeding success of a cavity nester and omnivorous species commonly breeding in urban areas, the Western Jackdaw (Corvus monedula), depended on the availability of good-quality non-urban food. We approached the objective by combining a literature review and experiments in the field. With the literature review, we compared jackdaw populations in different habitats across Europe and found that clutch size and number of fledglings per pair decreased with distance to non-urban foraging grounds, even after controlling for the effect of colony size, latitude, and climate. In two experiments, we tested whether the breeding success of urban pairs could be increased by supplementing high-quality food, first only during egg formation and second also until chick fledging. Food supplementation during egg formation led to larger eggs and higher hatching success than in urban control nests, but this did not result in higher chick survival. However, when food supplementation was prolonged until fledging in the second experiment, we observed a significant increase of nestling survival. These findings highlight that research and management actions should not only focus on species displaced by urbanization, but also on "urban-adapted" species, as they might be suffering from a mismatch between availability of nesting sites in buildings and adequate non-urban food resources. In these cases, nest sites should be provided in or close to adequate food resources.}, }
@article {pmid28261131, year = {2017}, author = {Li, CH and He, X and Wang, YJ and Hu, Z and Guo, CY}, title = {Visual Working Memory Capacity Can Be Increased by Training on Distractor Filtering Efficiency.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {196}, pmid = {28261131}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {It is generally considered that working memory (WM) capacity is limited and that WM capacity affects cognitive processes. Distractor filtering efficiency has been suggested to be an important factor in determining the visual working memory (VWM) capacity of individuals. In the present study, we investigated whether training in visual filtering efficiency (FE) could improve VWM capacity, as measured by performance on the change detection task (CDT) and changes of contralateral delay activity (CDA) (contralateral delay activity) of different conditions, and evaluated the transfer effect of visual FE training on verbal WM and fluid intelligence, as indexed by performance on the verbal WM span task and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) test, respectively. Participants were divided into high- and low-capacity groups based on their performance in a CDT designed to test VWM capacity, and then the low-capacity individuals received 20 days of FE training. The training significantly improved the group's performance in the CDT, and their CDA models of different conditions became more similar with high capacity group, and the effect generalized to improve verbal WM span. These gains were maintained at a 3-month follow-up test. Participants' RSPM scores were not changed by the training. These findings support the notion that WM capacity is determined, at least in part, by distractor FE and can be enhanced through training.}, }
@article {pmid28260371, year = {2017}, author = {Olšovská, J and Matoulková, D and Dušek, M and Felsberg, J and Jelínková, M and Čejka, P and Štěrba, K}, title = {Analysis of 100-Year-Old Beer Originated from the Czech Republic.}, journal = {Journal of agricultural and food chemistry}, volume = {65}, number = {16}, pages = {3341-3350}, doi = {10.1021/acs.jafc.6b05706}, pmid = {28260371}, issn = {1520-5118}, mesh = {Acids/analysis ; Beer/*analysis/microbiology ; Czech Republic ; Dekkera/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/metabolism ; Fatty Acids/analysis ; Fermentation ; Flavoring Agents/analysis ; Food Handling ; Humans ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Three bottles of different beers were found in 2015 during a reconstruction of the brewery of the Raven Trading s.r.o. company in Záhlinice, Czech Republic. Thanks to good storage conditions, it was possible to analyze their original characteristics. All three bottles contained most probably lager type beer. One beer had sulfuric and fecal off-flavors; it was bright with the original extract of 10.3° Plato. The second beer, with an original extract of 7.6° Plato, was dark and very acidic, resembling Lambic. DNA analysis proved the presence of Dekkera bruxellensis, which corresponded to its chemical profile (total acidity, FAN, ethyl acetate, total esters). The third beer contained traces of carbon dioxide bubbles, was light brown and slightly bitter, with an original extract 10.4° Plato. Because it obviously underwent a natural aging process, sweetness, honey, and fruity off-flavors were detected and transformation products of iso-α-acids were found.}, }
@article {pmid28255565, year = {2017}, author = {Stone, AV and Mannava, S and Patel, A and Marquez-Lara, A and Freehill, MT}, title = {Defining the Long-Toss: A Professional Baseball Epidemiological Study.}, journal = {Orthopaedic journal of sports medicine}, volume = {5}, number = {2}, pages = {2325967116686773}, pmid = {28255565}, issn = {2325-9671}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Despite widespread use of long-toss throwing in baseball as a component of arm conditioning, interval throwing programs, and rehabilitation, long-toss distance and throwing mechanics remain controversial.<br><br>PURPOSE: To ascertain the perceived definition of long-toss throwing through a survey of professional pitchers, pitching coaches (PCs), and certified athletic trainers (ATCs) associated with Major League Baseball.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive epidemiology study.<br><br>METHODS: Pitchers, PCs, and ATCs associated with 5 Major League Baseball organizations completed an anonymous survey that collected demographic data, personal use of long-toss throwing, and their perception of the distance and throwing mechanics that comprised long-toss.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 321 surveys were completed by 271 pitchers, 19 PCs, and 31 ATCs. For all respondents, the mean distance considered as long-toss was 175 ft (95% CI, 170-181 ft). Respondents categorized the throwing mechanics of long-toss, with 36% reporting throwing "on a line" and 70% reporting long-toss as "not on a line." Of those throwing "on a line," 28% reported using crow-hop footwork while 60% used crow-hop footwork when throwing "not on a line." Interpretation of long-toss distance significantly varied by position: pitchers, 177 ft (95% CI, 171-183 ft); PCs, 177 ft (95% CI, 155-200 ft); and ATCs, 157 ft (95% CI, 144-169 ft) (P = .048). When asked when long-toss throwing is used, pitchers reported using it more frequently in preseason (P = .007), during the season (P = .015), and in the off-season (P = .002) compared with that by ATCs. Functional goals for long-toss throwing demonstrated that pitchers and PCs use long-toss for shoulder stretching more frequently than ATCs (P < .001 and P = .026, respectively). ATCs used long-toss more than pitchers for interval throwing programs (P < .001).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The definition varies for long-toss throwing distance and throwing mechanics. Pitchers and PCs believe that long-toss comprised longer distances than ATCs and employed long-toss differently for strength conditioning, training, stretching, and rehabilitation. This discrepancy highlights a potential lost opportunity for protecting the shoulder. While long-toss is an important tool, a more scientific definition is warranted to better elucidate its role in enhancing throwing performance and rehabilitation.}, }
@article {pmid28250990, year = {2017}, author = {Shakeel, MK and Goghari, VM}, title = {Measuring Fluid Intelligence in Healthy Older Adults.}, journal = {Journal of aging research}, volume = {2017}, number = {}, pages = {8514582}, pmid = {28250990}, issn = {2090-2204}, abstract = {The present study evaluated subjective and objective cognitive measures as predictors of fluid intelligence in healthy older adults. We hypothesized that objective cognitive measures would predict fluid intelligence to a greater degree than self-reported cognitive functioning. Ninety-three healthy older (>65 years old) community-dwelling adults participated. Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM) were used to measure fluid intelligence, Digit Span Sequencing (DSS) was used to measure working memory, Trail Making Test (TMT) was used to measure cognitive flexibility, Design Fluency Test (DFT) was used to measure creativity, and Tower Test (TT) was used to measure planning. The Cognitive Failures Questionnaire (CFQ) was used to measure subjective perceptions of cognitive functioning. RAPM was correlated with DSS, TT, and DFT. When CFQ was the only predictor, the regression model predicting fluid intelligence was not significant. When DSS, TMT, DFT, and TT were included in the model, there was a significant change in the model and the final model was also significant, with DFT as the only significant predictor. The model accounted for approximately 20% of the variability in fluid intelligence. Our findings suggest that the most reliable means of assessing fluid intelligence is to assess it directly.}, }
@article {pmid28241283, year = {2017}, author = {Neumann, S and Salm, S and Rietz, C and Stenneken, P}, title = {The German Focus on the Outcomes of Communication Under Six (FOCUS-G): Reliability and Validity of a Novel Assessment of Communicative Participation.}, journal = {Journal of speech, language, and hearing research : JSLHR}, volume = {60}, number = {3}, pages = {675-681}, doi = {10.1044/2016_JSLHR-L-15-0219}, pmid = {28241283}, issn = {1558-9102}, mesh = {Child Behavior/psychology ; Child, Preschool ; *Communication ; Female ; Humans ; Language Development Disorders/*diagnosis ; Male ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: Our purpose was to explore the validity and reliability of the German Focus on the Outcomes of Communication Under Six (FOCUS-G; Thomas-Stonell, Oddson, Robertson, &amp; Rosenbaum, 2010, 2012), which is an authorized adaptation of the Focus on the Outcomes of Communication Under Six (Thomas-Stonell et al., 2010) tool, which measures communicative participation in preschool children.<br><br>METHOD: Parents of typically developing children (TDC) and of children with speech impairment (CSI) completed the FOCUS-G and the Questionnaire for Measuring Health-Related Quality of Life in Children (KiddyKINDL; Ravens-Sieberer &amp; Bullinger, 2000). To determine test-retest reliability, the FOCUS-G was readministered to a subsample of parents 1 week later.<br><br>RESULTS: The FOCUS-G had high values for internal consistency (&#x3b1; = .959, &#x3a9; = .941), test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = .974), and split-half reliability (r = .832). Total scores on the FOCUS-G and KiddyKINDL demonstrated significant associations. FOCUS-G total scores and subdomain scores for both samples showed significant correlations, indicating good construct validity. The discriminatory ability of the FOCUS-G was indicated by significantly higher mean scores for TDC (M = 6.03, SD = 0.65) than CSI (M = 5.47, SD = 1.02).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The overall good psychometric properties of this novel assessment of communicative participation support its use by speech-language pathologists for clinical and research purposes with German-speaking children.}, }
@article {pmid28239221, year = {2017}, author = {Munteanu, AM and Stocker, M and Stöwe, M and Massen, JJ and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Behavioural and Hormonal Stress Responses to Social Separation in Ravens, Corvus corax.}, journal = {Ethology : formerly Zeitschrift fur Tierpsychologie}, volume = {123}, number = {2}, pages = {123-135}, pmid = {28239221}, issn = {0179-1613}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Social life is profitable, but it facilitates conflicts over resources and creates interdependence between individuals. Separating highly social animals triggers intense reactions aimed at re-establishing lost connections. Less is known, however, about behavioural and physiological responses to separation in socially facultative species, where individuals temporarily form groups and may subsequently leave them. Non-breeding common ravens (Corvus corax) gather in large numbers at feeding and roosting sites, but otherwise spend time seemingly solitary or in small subgroups. We here studied how ravens cope with being socially isolated, and investigated the life characteristics that might explain potential individual differences. For this, we individually separated captive subadult ravens (n = 25) and housed them in physical and visual isolation from their group members across 4 d. During the separation period, we collected behavioural data and measured the amount of immunoreactive corticosterone metabolites from bird droppings to assess the ravens' physiological stress response. We found behavioural indicators of stress at the start of the separation, when ravens showed higher levels of tension than of comfort - a pattern that reversed at the end of the separation. Furthermore, we found that the upbringing of ravens affected their behaviour during separation. Hand-raised birds produced more vocalisations in the beginning of the separation, and were less active at the end, while the reverse pattern occurred with parent-raised ravens. Contrary to our predictions, we did not find differences in hormonal responses between the beginning and end of the separation period or any link between hormonal responses and behaviours. Ravens' behavioural responses to social separation stress seem to be dependent on their arousal states, although possible links with hormonal reactions remain unclear. Our results show that behavioural reactions are not always linked with hormonal responses to stress, and further emphasise the importance of investigating effects of early-life experiences.}, }
@article {pmid28233773, year = {2017}, author = {Davidson, G and Miller, R and Loissel, E and Cheke, LG and Clayton, NS}, title = {Erratum: The development of support intuitions and object causality in juvenile Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius).}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {42936}, doi = {10.1038/srep42936}, pmid = {28233773}, issn = {2045-2322}, }
@article {pmid28222237, year = {2017}, author = {Morinha, F and Dávila, JA and Bastos, E and Cabral, JA and Frías, &#xd3; and González, JL and Travassos, P and Carvalho, D and Milá, B and Blanco, G}, title = {Extreme genetic structure in a social bird species despite high dispersal capacity.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {26}, number = {10}, pages = {2812-2825}, doi = {10.1111/mec.14069}, pmid = {28222237}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Gene Flow ; Genetic Drift ; *Genetic Variation ; *Genetics, Population ; Microsatellite Repeats ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; *Social Behavior ; Spain ; }, abstract = {Social barriers have been shown to reduce gene flow and contribute to genetic structure among populations in species with high cognitive capacity and complex societies, such as cetaceans, apes and humans. In birds, high dispersal capacity is thought to prevent population divergence unless major geographical or habitat barriers induce isolation patterns by dispersal, colonization or adaptation limitation. We report that Iberian populations of the red-billed chough, a social, gregarious corvid with high dispersal capacity, show a striking degree of genetic structure composed of at least 15 distinct genetic units. Monitoring of marked individuals over 30 years revealed that long-distance movements over hundreds of kilometres are common, yet recruitment into breeding populations is infrequent and highly philopatric. Genetic differentiation is weakly related to geographical distance, and habitat types used are overall qualitatively similar among regions and regularly shared by individuals of different populations, so that genetic structure is unlikely to be due solely to isolation by distance or isolation by adaptation. Moreover, most population nuclei showed relatively high levels of genetic diversity, suggesting a limited role for genetic drift in significantly differentiating populations. We propose that social mechanisms may underlie this unprecedented level of genetic structure in birds through a pattern of isolation by social barriers not yet described, which may have driven this remarkable population divergence in the absence of geographical and environmental barriers.}, }
@article {pmid28220657, year = {2017}, author = {Thomas-Bachli, AL and Pearl, DL and Berke, O and Parmley, EJ and Barker, IK}, title = {A geographic study of West Nile virus in humans, dead corvids and mosquitoes in Ontario using spatial scan statistics with a survival time application.}, journal = {Zoonoses and public health}, volume = {64}, number = {7}, pages = {e81-e89}, doi = {10.1111/zph.12350}, pmid = {28220657}, issn = {1863-2378}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases ; Crows/*virology ; Culicidae/*virology ; Epidemiological Monitoring ; Geographic Mapping ; Humans ; Ontario/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Surveillance of West Nile virus (WNv) in Ontario has included passive reporting of human cases and testing of trapped mosquitoes and dead birds found by the public. The dead bird surveillance programme was limited to testing within a public health unit (PHU) until a small number of birds test positive. These dead corvid and mosquito surveillance programmes have not been compared for their ability to provide early warning in geographic areas where human cases occur each year. Spatial scan statistics were applied to time-to-event survival data based on first cases of WNv in found dead corvids, mosquitoes and humans. Clusters identified using raw data were compared to clusters based on model-adjusted survival times to evaluate whether geographic and sociodemographic factors influenced their distribution. Statistically significant (p < .05) space-time clusters of PHUs with faster time to detection were found using each surveillance data stream. During 2002-2004, the corvid surveillance programme outperformed the mosquito programme in terms of time to WNv detection, while the clusters of first-positive mosquito pools were more spatially similar to first human cases. In 2006, a cluster of first-positive dead corvids was located in northern PHUs and preceded a cluster of early human cases that was identified after controlling for the influence of geographic region and sociodemographic profile.}, }
@article {pmid28217543, year = {2016}, author = {Aravind, A and Dhanya, RS and Narayan, A and Sam, G and Adarsh, VJ and Kiran, M}, title = {Effect of fluoridated water on intelligence in 10-12-year-old school children.}, journal = {Journal of International Society of Preventive &amp; Community Dentistry}, volume = {6}, number = {Suppl 3}, pages = {S237-S242}, pmid = {28217543}, issn = {2231-0762}, abstract = {AIM: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship of drinking water fluoride levels with children's intelligence quotient (IQ).<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Water was collected from initially identified endemic fluoride regions according to the geological research of Government of India. Fluoride concentration of the water was assessed by utilizing fluoride ion selective electrode, Orion 9609BN, and categorized on the basis of fluoride concentration into low, medium, and high-fluoride regions, i.e., Virajpet (low fluoride level < 1.2 ppm), Banavara (Medium fluoride level 1.2-2 ppm), and Mastihalli (High fluoride levels > 3 ppm). Government school from all three villages were selected randomly and IQ levels were assessed by using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. This test was conducted on each child in the study sample.<br><br>RESULTS: A significant inverse relationship was found between the fluoride concentration in drinking water and IQ (r value = -0.204; P < 0.000). It was observed that IQ level was negatively correlated with fluoride concentration in drinking water.<br><br>CONCLUSION: It is concluded that IQ level was negatively correlated with fluoride level in drinking water. Factors that might affect children's IQ need to be considered, and it is necessary to devise solutions for preventing the harmful effects of excessive intake of fluoride ion to the body.}, }
@article {pmid28214810, year = {2016}, author = {Пятакова, &#x413;&#x412; and Лебедева, &#x415;&#x418; and Потявина, &#x412;&#x412; and Церфус, &#x414;&#x41d;}, title = {[Age specific and individual psychological factors of post--traumatic stress (PTS) development of children with after-effects of physical damages indicating medical rehabilitation].}, journal = {Wiadomosci lekarskie (Warsaw, Poland : 1960)}, volume = {69}, number = {6}, pages = {750-757}, pmid = {28214810}, issn = {0043-5147}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Age Factors ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Parents ; Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/*etiology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Wounds and Injuries/complications/*psychology ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: children and teenagers having received hard physical damages face a difficult life situation which includes events accompanied by feeling of intensive fear and helplessness. Every child's individual psychological features play an important role in coping with negative psychological after-effects of his/her physical trauma.<br><br>AIM: learning PTS manifestations among children and teenagers with hard physical damages indicating medical rehabilitation.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: patients of the traumatological department of children's surgery clinic took part in the research: 31 preadolescent children and their parents, 45 teengaers and their parents. Physical damages were received by children clinic's patients in accidents and out of negligence. A survey containing clinical and historical method elements, medical documents; semi-structured interviews for identification of signs of children's post-traumatic stress, a survey for parents for identification of children's traumatic experience, colour matrices and J. Raven black-and-white matrices, S. Rosenzweig frustration tolerance methods (children's and adult version) were used as certain research methods.<br><br>RESULTS: it was shown that intellectual productivity showings and stable ways of emotional reaction can act as individual psychological factos of PTS development. Age specifics of embeddedness of intellectual features and stable ways of emotional reaction to PTS symptoms development among children and teenagers with hard physical damages.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: the received results can be used as a base for developing specific approaches for psychological support of children and teenagers having the experience of physical damage and difficult medical rehabilitation.}, }
@article {pmid28211915, year = {2017}, author = {Hirano, Y and Nakagawa, M and Suyama, T and Murase, K and Shirakawa, M and Takayama, S and Sun, TP and Hakoshima, T}, title = {Structure of the SHR-SCR heterodimer bound to the BIRD/IDD transcriptional factor JKD.}, journal = {Nature plants}, volume = {3}, number = {}, pages = {17010}, pmid = {28211915}, issn = {2055-0278}, support = {R01 GM100051/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Arabidopsis/*genetics/metabolism ; Arabidopsis Proteins/chemistry/*genetics/metabolism ; Carrier Proteins/chemistry/*genetics/metabolism ; Transcription Factors/chemistry/*genetics/metabolism ; }, abstract = {The plant-specific GAI, RGA and SCR (GRAS) family proteins play critical roles in plant development and signalling. Two GRAS proteins, SHORT-ROOT (SHR) and SCARECROW (SCR), cooperatively direct asymmetric cell division and the patterning of root cell types by transcriptional control in conjunction with BIRD/INDETERMINATE DOMAIN (IDD) transcription factors, although precise details of these specific interactions and actions remain unknown. Here, we present the crystal structures of the SHR-SCR binary and JACKDAW (JKD)/IDD10-SHR-SCR ternary complexes. Each GRAS domain comprises one α/β core subdomain with an α-helical cap that mediates heterodimerization by forming an intermolecular helix bundle. The α/β core subdomain of SHR forms the BIRD binding groove, which specifically recognizes the zinc fingers of JKD. We identified a conserved SHR-binding motif in 13 BIRD/IDD transcription factors. Our results establish a structural basis for GRAS-GRAS and GRAS-BIRD interactions and provide valuable clues towards our understanding of these regulators, which are involved in plant-specific signalling networks.}, }
@article {pmid28203099, year = {2017}, author = {Rouvrais, C and Bacqueville, D and Bogdanowicz, P and Haure, MJ and Duprat, L and Coutanceau, C and Castex-Rizzi, N and Duplan, H and Mengeaud, V and Bessou-Touya, S}, title = {A new dermocosmetic containing retinaldehyde, delta-tocopherol glucoside and glycylglycine oleamide for managing naturally aged skin: results from in vitro to clinical studies.}, journal = {Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {35-42}, pmid = {28203099}, issn = {1178-7015}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Natural aging of skin tissues, the addition of the cumulative action of the time and radiation exposure result in skin atrophy, wrinkles and degeneration of the extracellular matrix (ECM). The aim of the study was to investigate the beneficial effect of a combination containing retinaldehyde (RAL), delta-tocopherol glucoside (delta-TC) and glycylglycine ole-amide (GGO) and of a dermocosmetic containing the combination.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: The protective effect of the combination was assessed through in vitro gene expression of ultraviolet (UV)-irradiated fibroblasts. A skin aging assay using UV light on ex vivo skin samples and a clinical study conducted in 36 women aged from 35 to 55 years with a minimum of level 4 to a maximum of level 6 on the crow's feet photoscale assessed the antiaging effect of the dermocosmetic.<br><br>RESULTS: When added to UV-irradiated fibroblasts, the combination substantially improved the ECM in activating the elastin fiber production (fibrillin 2, fibulin 1 and 5 and lysyl oxidase-like 2) as well as that of proteins involved in the cellular ECM interactions (integrin b1, paxillin and actin a2). An ex vivo photodamaged human skin model showed that the dermocosmetic formulation containing the combination of the active ingredients protected the elastic network against UV-induced alterations including both elastin and fibrillin-rich fibers in the dermis. A daily application of the dermocosmetic for 2 months on naturally aged skin resulted in a statistically significant improvement (p<0.05) of visible signs of aging comprising crow's feet, wrinkles and periocular fine lines. Finally, the formulation was well tolerated.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The dermocosmetic containing RAL, delta-TC and GGO provides a substantial benefit in the daily care of naturally aged skin in women aged 35-55 years.}, }
@article {pmid28202815, year = {2017}, author = {Dutoit, L and Vijay, N and Mugal, CF and Bossu, CM and Burri, R and Wolf, J and Ellegren, H}, title = {Covariation in levels of nucleotide diversity in homologous regions of the avian genome long after completion of lineage sorting.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {284}, number = {1849}, pages = {}, pmid = {28202815}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*genetics ; Evolution, Molecular ; *Genome ; Karyotype ; Nucleotides/*genetics ; Recombination, Genetic ; Songbirds/*genetics ; Synteny ; }, abstract = {Closely related species may show similar levels of genetic diversity in homologous regions of the genome owing to shared ancestral variation still segregating in the extant species. However, after completion of lineage sorting, such covariation is not necessarily expected. On the other hand, if the processes that govern genetic diversity are conserved, diversity may potentially covary even among distantly related species. We mapped regions of conserved synteny between the genomes of two divergent bird species-collared flycatcher and hooded crow-and identified more than 600 Mb of homologous regions (66% of the genome). From analyses of whole-genome resequencing data in large population samples of both species we found nucleotide diversity in 200 kb windows to be well correlated (Spearman's ρ = 0.407). The correlation remained highly similar after excluding coding sequences. To explain this covariation, we suggest that a stable avian karyotype and a conserved landscape of recombination rate variation render the diversity-reducing effects of linked selection similar in divergent bird lineages. Principal component regression analysis of several potential explanatory variables driving heterogeneity in flycatcher diversity levels revealed the strongest effects from recombination rate variation and density of coding sequence targets for selection, consistent with linked selection. It is also possible that a stable karyotype is associated with a conserved genomic mutation environment contributing to covariation in diversity levels between lineages. Our observations imply that genetic diversity is to some extent predictable.}, }
@article {pmid28199765, year = {2017}, author = {Perec-Matysiak, A and Wesołowska, M and Leśniańska, K and Buńkowska-Gawlik, K and Hildebrand, J and Kicia, M}, title = {Survey for Zoonotic Microsporidian Pathogens in Wild Living Urban Rooks (Corvus frugilegus).}, journal = {The Journal of eukaryotic microbiology}, volume = {64}, number = {5}, pages = {721-724}, doi = {10.1111/jeu.12402}, pmid = {28199765}, issn = {1550-7408}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*microbiology ; DNA, Fungal/genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal/*genetics ; Feces/microbiology ; Genotype ; Microsporidia/*classification/genetics ; Phylogeny ; Poland ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; }, abstract = {Microsporidia are opportunistic pathogens in nature infecting all animal phyla. There is a potential risk of microsporidian spores transmission from urban rooks inhabiting some metropolitan cities to people through casual interactions. The aim of this study was to identify microsporidia species in the droppings of rooks in Wroclaw, Poland. A total of 15 collective sets of droppings were examined using nested-PCR method. Amplification of ITS rRNA gene revealed the presence of Enterocytozoon bieneusi D, Peru 6, and Encephalitozoon hellem 1A genotypes. This study indicates that excreta of urban rooks can be an important source of human infection with these pathogens.}, }
@article {pmid28192043, year = {2017}, author = {West, E and Hofmeister, E and Peery, MZ}, title = {Serosurvey for West Nile Virus Antibodies in Steller's Jays (Cyanocitta stelleri) Captured in Coastal California, USA.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {53}, number = {3}, pages = {582-585}, doi = {10.7589/2016-06-139}, pmid = {28192043}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases ; Birds/*virology ; California ; Canada ; Mexico ; New York ; West Nile Fever/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) was first detected in New York in 1999 and, during its expansion across the continental US, southern Canada, and Mexico, members of the Corvidae (ravens, crows, magpies, and jays) were frequently infected and highly susceptible to the virus. As part of a behavioral study of Steller's Jays (Cyanocitta stelleri) conducted from 2011-14 in the coastal California counties of San Mateo and Santa Cruz, 380 Steller's Jays were captured and tested for antibodies to WNV. Using the wild bird immunoglobulin G enzyme linked immunoassay, we failed to detect antibodies to WNV, indicating either that there was no previous exposure to the virus or that exposed birds had died.}, }
@article {pmid28189590, year = {2017}, author = {Small, TW and Bebus, SE and Bridge, ES and Elderbrock, EK and Ferguson, SM and Jones, BC and Schoech, SJ}, title = {Stress-responsiveness influences baseline glucocorticoid levels: Revisiting the under 3min sampling rule.}, journal = {General and comparative endocrinology}, volume = {247}, number = {}, pages = {152-165}, doi = {10.1016/j.ygcen.2017.01.028}, pmid = {28189590}, issn = {1095-6840}, mesh = {Animals ; Corticosterone/blood ; Female ; Glucocorticoids/*pharmacology ; Linear Models ; Male ; *Models, Biological ; Passeriformes/blood/*physiology ; Phenotype ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; Stress, Physiological/*drug effects/physiology ; }, abstract = {Plasma glucocorticoid (CORT) levels collected within 3min of capture are commonly believed to reflect pre-stressor, baseline CORT levels. Differences in these "baseline" values are often interpreted as reflecting differences in health, or the amount of social and environmental stress recently experienced by an individual. When interpreting "baseline" values it is generally assumed that any effect of capture-and-handling during the initial sampling period is small enough and consistent enough among individuals to not obscure pre-capture differences in CORT levels. However, plasma CORT increases in less than 3min post-capture in many free-living, endothermic species in which timing has been assessed. In addition, the rate of CORT secretion and the maximum level attained (i.e., the degree of stress-responsiveness) during a severe stressor often differs among individuals of the same species. In Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens), an individual's stress-responsiveness during a 30min post-capture stressor is correlated with CORT levels in samples collected within 1.5min of capture, suggesting there is an intrinsic connection between stress-responsiveness and pre-capture CORT levels. Although differences in stress-responsiveness accounted for just 11% of the variance in these samples, on average, higher stress-responsive jays (top third of individuals) had baseline values twice that of lower stress-responsive jays (bottom third). Further, plasma CORT levels begin to increase around 2min post-capture in this species, but the rate of increase between 2 and 3min differs markedly with CORT increasing more rapidly in jays with higher stress-responsiveness. Together, these data indicate that baseline CORT values can be influenced by an individual's stress response phenotype and the differences due to stress-responsiveness can be exaggerated during sample collection. In some cases, the effects of differences in stress-responsiveness and the increase in CORT during sample collection could obscure, or supersede, differences in pre-capture plasma CORT levels that are caused by extrinsic factors.}, }
@article {pmid28163873, year = {2017}, author = {KleinHeerenbrink, M and Hedenström, A}, title = {Wake analysis of drag components in gliding flight of a jackdaw (Corvus monedula) during moult.}, journal = {Interface focus}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {20160081}, pmid = {28163873}, issn = {2042-8898}, abstract = {To maintain the quality of the feathers, birds regularly undergo moult. It is widely accepted that moult affects flight performance, but the specific aerodynamic consequences have received relatively little attention. Here we measured the components of aerodynamic drag from the wake behind a gliding jackdaw (Corvus monedula) at different stages of its natural wing moult. We found that span efficiency was reduced (lift induced drag increased) and the wing profile drag coefficient was increased. Both effects best correlated with the corresponding reduction in spanwise camber. The negative effects are partially mitigated by adjustments of wing posture to minimize gaps in the wing, and by weight loss to reduce wing loading. By studying the aerodynamic consequences of moult, we can refine our understanding of the emergence of various moulting strategies found among birds.}, }
@article {pmid28163676, year = {2016}, author = {Qazi, EU and Hussain, M and Aboalsamh, H and Malik, AS and Amin, HU and Bamatraf, S}, title = {Single Trial EEG Patterns for the Prediction of Individual Differences in Fluid Intelligence.}, journal = {Frontiers in human neuroscience}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {687}, pmid = {28163676}, issn = {1662-5161}, abstract = {Assessing a person's intelligence level is required in many situations, such as career counseling and clinical applications. EEG evoked potentials in oddball task and fluid intelligence score are correlated because both reflect the cognitive processing and attention. A system for prediction of an individual's fluid intelligence level using single trial Electroencephalography (EEG) signals has been proposed. For this purpose, we employed 2D and 3D contents and 34 subjects each for 2D and 3D, which were divided into low-ability (LA) and high-ability (HA) groups using Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM) test. Using visual oddball cognitive task, neural activity of each group was measured and analyzed over three midline electrodes (Fz, Cz, and Pz). To predict whether an individual belongs to LA or HA group, features were extracted using wavelet decomposition of EEG signals recorded in visual oddball task and support vector machine (SVM) was used as a classifier. Two different types of Haar wavelet transform based features have been extracted from the band (0.3 to 30 Hz) of EEG signals. Statistical wavelet features and wavelet coefficient features from the frequency bands 0.0-1.875 Hz (delta low) and 1.875-3.75 Hz (delta high), resulted in the 100 and 98% prediction accuracies, respectively, both for 2D and 3D contents. The analysis of these frequency bands showed clear difference between LA and HA groups. Further, discriminative values of the features have been validated using statistical significance tests and inter-class and intra-class variation analysis. Also, statistical test showed that there was no effect of 2D and 3D content on the assessment of fluid intelligence level. Comparisons with state-of-the-art techniques showed the superiority of the proposed system.}, }
@article {pmid28151701, year = {2017}, author = {Wright, AA and Magnotti, JF and Katz, JS and Leonard, K and Vernouillet, A and Kelly, DM}, title = {Corvids Outperform Pigeons and Primates in Learning a Basic Concept.}, journal = {Psychological science}, volume = {28}, number = {4}, pages = {437-444}, doi = {10.1177/0956797616685871}, pmid = {28151701}, issn = {1467-9280}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Concept Formation/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Corvids (birds of the family Corvidae) display intelligent behavior previously ascribed only to primates, but such feats are not directly comparable across species. To make direct species comparisons, we used a same/different task in the laboratory to assess abstract-concept learning in black-billed magpies (Pica hudsonia). Concept learning was tested with novel pictures after training. Concept learning improved with training-set size, and test accuracy eventually matched training accuracy-full concept learning-with a 128-picture set; this magpie performance was equivalent to that of Clark's nutcrackers (a species of corvid) and monkeys (rhesus, capuchin) and better than that of pigeons. Even with an initial 8-item picture set, both corvid species showed partial concept learning, outperforming both monkeys and pigeons. Similar corvid performance refutes the hypothesis that nutcrackers' prolific cache-location memory accounts for their superior concept learning, because magpies rely less on caching. That corvids with "primitive" neural architectures evolved to equal primates in full concept learning and even to outperform them on the initial 8-item picture test is a testament to the shared (convergent) survival importance of abstract-concept learning.}, }
@article {pmid28145581, year = {2017}, author = {Laiolo, P}, title = {Phenotypic similarity in sympatric crow species: Evidence of social convergence?.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {71}, number = {4}, pages = {1051-1060}, doi = {10.1111/evo.13195}, pmid = {28145581}, issn = {1558-5646}, mesh = {*Animal Communication ; Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Phenotype ; Phylogeny ; Social Behavior ; *Sympatry ; }, abstract = {Crows, rooks, and ravens (Corvus spp.) display marked morphological and voice similarities that have been hypothesized to stem from competitive interactions, as a case of nonaposematic mimicry. Here, I test predictions of the mimicry hypothesis at the macrovolutionary scale, examining whether species morphological and acoustic traits covary with those of coexisting congeners, and whether phenotypic similarity has facilitated the coexistence of related species after secondary contact. Body size and the temporal patterns of the commonest call display high levels of similarity among sympatric species, even after controlling for the effect of shared climate and habitat, and phylogenetic constraints in the production of variation. When sister species differed in these acoustic and morphological traits, their transition to secondary sympatry was delayed relative to those with more similar traits. No similarity was found in the sexual call of crows, suggesting that convergence occurs only when function does not favour maintenance of species-specific traits. Crow similarities in morphological and acoustic features may therefore be associated with coevolving interactions with congeners, in line with a broad array of studies documenting convergence among species that interact aggressively or forage communally.}, }
@article {pmid28135017, year = {2017}, author = {Griesser, M and Wagner, GF and Drobniak, SM and Ekman, J}, title = {Reproductive trade-offs in a long-lived bird species: condition-dependent reproductive allocation maintains female survival and offspring quality.}, journal = {Journal of evolutionary biology}, volume = {30}, number = {4}, pages = {782-795}, doi = {10.1111/jeb.13046}, pmid = {28135017}, issn = {1420-9101}, mesh = {Animals ; Breeding ; *Clutch Size ; Female ; *Passeriformes ; Predatory Behavior ; *Reproduction ; }, abstract = {Life history theory is an essential framework to understand the evolution of reproductive allocation. It predicts that individuals of long-lived species favour their own survival over current reproduction, leading individuals to refrain from reproducing under harsh conditions. Here we test this prediction in a long-lived bird species, the Siberian jay Perisoreus infaustus. Long-term data revealed that females rarely refrain from breeding, but lay smaller clutches in unfavourable years. Neither offspring body size, female survival nor offspring survival until the next year was influenced by annual condition, habitat quality, clutch size, female age or female phenotype. Given that many nests failed due to nest predation, the variance in the number of fledglings was higher than the variance in the number of eggs and female survival. An experimental challenge with a novel pathogen before egg laying largely replicated these patterns in two consecutive years with contrasting conditions. Challenged females refrained from breeding only in the unfavourable year, but no downstream effects were found in either year. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that condition-dependent reproductive allocation may serve to maintain female survival and offspring quality, supporting patterns found in long-lived mammals. We discuss avenues to develop life history theory concerning strategies to offset reproductive costs.}, }
@article {pmid28132659, year = {2017}, author = {Mitra, S and Sarkar, N and Barik, A}, title = {Long-chain alkanes and fatty acids from Ludwigia octovalvis weed leaf surface waxes as short-range attractant and ovipositional stimulant to Altica cyanea (Weber) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae).}, journal = {Bulletin of entomological research}, volume = {107}, number = {3}, pages = {391-400}, doi = {10.1017/S0007485316001012}, pmid = {28132659}, issn = {1475-2670}, mesh = {Alkanes/*pharmacology ; Animals ; *Chemotaxis ; Coleoptera/*physiology ; Fatty Acids/*pharmacology ; Female ; Olfactometry ; Onagraceae/*chemistry ; Oviposition/*drug effects ; Plant Extracts/pharmacology ; Plant Leaves/chemistry ; Weed Control ; }, abstract = {The importance of leaf surface wax compounds from the rice-field weed Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) Raven (Onagraceae) was determined in the flea beetle Altica cyanea (Weber) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). Extraction, thin layer chromatography and GC-MS and GC-FID analyses of surface waxes of young, mature and senescent leaves revealed 20, 19 and 19 n-alkanes between n-C15 and n-C35, respectively; whereas 14, 14 and 12 free fatty acids between C12:0 and C22:0 fatty acids were identified in young, mature and senescent leaves, respectively. Tricosane was predominant n-alkane in young and mature leaves, whilst eicosane predominated in senescent leaves. Heneicosanoic acid, palmitic acid and docosanoic acid were the most abundant free fatty acids in young, mature and senescent leaves, respectively. A. cyanea females showed attraction to 0.25 mature leaf equivalent surface waxes compared with young or senescent leaves in a short glass Y-tube olfactometer bioassay. The insects were attracted to a synthetic blend of 0.90, 1.86, 1.83, 1.95, 0.50 and 0.18 µg ml-1 petroleum ether of hexadecane, octadecane, eicosane, tricosane, palmitic acid and alpha-linolenic acid, respectively, comparable with the proportions as present in 0.25 mature leaf equivalent surface waxes. A. cyanea also laid eggs on a filter paper moistened with 0.25 mature leaf equivalent surface waxes or a synthetic blend of 0.90, 1.86, 1.83, 1.95, 0.50 and 0.18 µg ml-1 petroleum ether of hexadecane, octadecane, eicosane, tricosane, palmitic acid and alpha-linolenic acid, respectively. This finding could provide a basis for monitoring of the potential biocontrol agent in the field.}, }
@article {pmid28130669, year = {2017}, author = {Mutafchiev, Y and Mariaux, J and Georgiev, BB}, title = {Description of Acuaria europaea n. sp. (Spirurida: Acuariidae) from Dendrocopos syriacus (Hemprich &amp; Ehrenberg) and Oriolus oriolus (L.) (Aves) in Europe, with results of re-examination of related European species of Acuaria Bremser, 1811.}, journal = {Systematic parasitology}, volume = {94}, number = {2}, pages = {201-214}, pmid = {28130669}, issn = {1573-5192}, mesh = {Animals ; Europe ; Female ; Male ; Passeriformes/*parasitology ; Species Specificity ; Spirurida/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification ; }, abstract = {Acuaria europaea n. sp. is described from one Dendrocopos syriacus (Hemprich &amp; Ehrenberg) (Piciformes: Picidae) (type-host) and three Oriolus oriolus (L.) (Passeriformes: Oriolidae) in Bulgaria (type-locality) and France. The new species is characterised by cordons extending slightly beyond the level of the anterior end of the glandular oesophagus, left spicule 297 µm long, right spicule 155 µm long, protruding vulvar region and strongly ventrally curved female tail. The male (holotype) and the female (allotype) of A. parorioli Chabaud &amp; Petter, 1961 from O. oriolus are regarded as not being conspecific based on the differing morphology of their cordons; the female is identified as A. europaea n. sp. The type-material of Acuaria attenuata (Rudolphi, 1819) is redescribed. The species is characterised by a small and delicate body, cordons extending beyond the oesophago-intestinal junction and similar spicules in size and shape, 140 µm long. The only type-material of Acuaria anthuris (Rudolphi, 1819) available for examination consists of a male and a female (syntypes) from O. oriolus. The two specimens differ from one another by the relative lengths of their cordons and we consider them as belonging to two species. However, both type-specimens differ in their much shorter cordons from the species of Acuaria parasitising Corvidae. The present study reveals that the original description of A. anthuris has been based on heterogeneous material.}, }
@article {pmid28123676, year = {2016}, author = {Yang, Z and Li, X and Liao, H and Hu, L and Zhang, Z and Zhao, B and Huang, X and Bao, Z}, title = {Physical mapping of immune-related genes in Yesso scallop (Patinopecten yessoensis) using fluorescent in situ hybridization.}, journal = {Comparative cytogenetics}, volume = {10}, number = {4}, pages = {529-541}, pmid = {28123676}, issn = {1993-0771}, abstract = {The innate immune system plays a pivotal role in defending invasion of microorganisms for scallops. Previous studies on immune-related genes in the Yesso scallop, Patinopecten yessoensis (Jay, 1857) have mainly focused on characterization and expression pattern in response to bacterial challenge, no research has been carried out on the cytogenetic level yet. In the present study, eight fosmid clones containing the sequences of key immune-related genes (PyNFkB, PyTRAF2, PyTRAF4, PyTRAF7, PyMyd88-1, PyMyd88-3, PyMKK-7 and PyTNFR) were isolated and seven of them were successfully mapped on chromosomes of Patinopecten yessoensis utilizing fluorescence in situ hybridization. Wherein, PyMyd88-1, PyMyd88-3 and PyMKK-7 located on the same chromosome pair with adjacent positions and the other genes were mapped on four non-homologous chromosome pairs, showing a similar distribution to another five model species. The isolation and mapping of such genes of the Yesso scallop will lay a foundation for studies such as assignment of interested genes to chromosomes, construction cytogenetic maps and so on.}, }
@article {pmid28120800, year = {2016}, author = {Horn, L and Scheer, C and Bugnyar, T and Massen, JJ}, title = {Proactive prosociality in a cooperatively breeding corvid, the azure-winged magpie (Cyanopica cyana).}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {12}, number = {10}, pages = {}, pmid = {28120800}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Cooperative Behavior ; Motivation ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {One of the contemporary hypotheses concerning the evolution of human altruism is the cooperative breeding hypothesis (CBH) which has recently been tested in non-human primates. Using a similar paradigm, we investigated prosociality in a cooperatively breeding corvid, the azure-winged magpie. We found that the magpies delivered food to their group members at high rates, and unlike other corvids, they did so without any cues provided by others. In two control conditions, the magpies stopped participating over time, indicating that they learned to discriminate prosocial tests from controls. Azure-winged magpies are thus the first birds that experimentally show proactive prosociality. Our findings are in line with the CBH; however, additional corvid species need to be tested in this promising paradigm.}, }
@article {pmid28118584, year = {2017}, author = {Ostojić, L and Legg, EW and Brecht, KF and Lange, F and Deininger, C and Mendl, M and Clayton, NS}, title = {Current desires of conspecific observers affect cache-protection strategies in California scrub-jays and Eurasian jays.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {27}, number = {2}, pages = {R51-R53}, pmid = {28118584}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; *Feeding Behavior ; Mental Recall ; *Motivation ; Passeriformes/classification/*physiology ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Many corvid species accurately remember the locations where they have seen others cache food, allowing them to pilfer these caches efficiently once the cachers have left the scene [1]. To protect their caches, corvids employ a suite of different cache-protection strategies that limit the observers' visual or acoustic access to the cache site [2,3]. In cases where an observer's sensory access cannot be reduced it has been suggested that cachers might be able to minimise the risk of pilfering if they avoid caching food the observer is most motivated to pilfer [4]. In the wild, corvids have been reported to pilfer others' caches as soon as possible after the caching event [5], such that the cacher might benefit from adjusting its caching behaviour according to the observer's current desire. In the current study, observers pilfered according to their current desire: they preferentially pilfered food that they were not sated on. Cachers adjusted their caching behaviour accordingly: they protected their caches by selectively caching food that observers were not motivated to pilfer. The same cache-protection behaviour was found when cachers could not see on which food the observers were sated. Thus, the cachers' ability to respond to the observer's desire might have been driven by the observer's behaviour at the time of caching.}, }
@article {pmid28107074, year = {2016}, author = {Hassanpour, H and Dehkordi, HA and Khosravi, M and Soltani, S and Nasiri, L}, title = {Analysis of the Normal Electrocardiogram in Wild Rooks (Corvus frugilegus).}, journal = {Journal of avian medicine and surgery}, volume = {30}, number = {4}, pages = {329-334}, doi = {10.1647/2015-079}, pmid = {28107074}, issn = {1082-6742}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/*physiology ; Electrocardiography/*veterinary ; Female ; Male ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {To describe the normal electrocardiographic (ECG) patterns and values in unanesthetized rooks (Corvus frugilegus), standard bipolar (I, II, and III) and augmented unipolar limb (aVR, aVL, and aVF) lead ECGs were recorded from 10 clinically healthy wild rooks. Wave forms were analyzed in all leads at 50 mm/s and at 10 mm = 1 mV to determine PR, QRS, ST, and QT durations; the net QRS complex; and P and T amplitudes. The polarity of each waveform was tabulated in all leads. The mean electrical axis (MEA) for the frontal plane was counted by using leads II and III. The mean heart rate was 340 ± 18 beats/min. The P wave was mainly positive in the most leads. The dominant pattern of waveforms of the QRS complexes was QS in leads II, III, and aVF, whereas in leads aVR and aVL, the patterns were rS and R, respectively. The T wave was positive in leads II, III, aVF, and aVL and negative in lead aVR. The mean of the heart MEA was -93 ± 2.2. Interpretation of the ECG values and patterns in rooks may facilitate a better realization of ECG changes of abnormalities in this species.}, }
@article {pmid28099075, year = {2017}, author = {Ziegler, L and Palau-Ribes, FM and Schmidt, L and Lierz, M}, title = {OCCURRENCE AND RELEVANCE OF MYCOPLASMA STURNI IN FREE-RANGING CORVIDS IN GERMANY.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {53}, number = {2}, pages = {228-234}, doi = {10.7589/2015-12-350}, pmid = {28099075}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bird Diseases ; Birds/*virology ; Germany ; Mycoplasma/*isolation &amp; purification ; Mycoplasma Infections ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; }, abstract = {Several Mycoplasma spp. are well-known pathogens in poultry. In birds of prey, White Storks (Ciconia ciconia), and some waterfowl (Anatidae, Pelecanidae) species, mycoplasmas occur commonly and seem to be apathogenic or commensal and most likely belong to the physiologic microbial flora of the respiratory tract. In other bird species, such as Common Nightingales (Luscinia megarhynchos) and tits (Paridae), Mycoplasma spp. are absent in healthy birds. In corvids, the prevalence and role of Mycoplasma spp. in disease remains unclear. In previous studies, Mycoplasma sturni was detected in diseased corvids; however, those studies included only a limited sample size or preselected individuals. We collected tracheal swabs of 97 free-ranging Corvidae, including 68 randomly selected individuals from hunting bags and 29 birds that had been admitted to a veterinary clinic. Tracheal swabs were examined for Mycoplasma spp. using culture and genus-specific PCR. If Mycoplasma spp. were detected, the species were identified by sequencing the 16S ribosomal (r) RNA gene and 16-23S rRNA intergenic transcribed spacer region. Five of 68 (7%) of the hunted birds and nine of 29 (31%) of the birds admitted to the veterinary clinic were PCR positive. In 13 of 14 PCR-positive samples, mycoplasmas were cultured and M. sturni was the only mycoplasmal species identified. None of the positive corvids from the hunting bags had clinical signs, whereas five of nine birds admitted to the veterinary clinic showed apathy, lameness, injuries, or fractures, which may not be associated with mycoplasmal infections. These data support the notion that M. sturni is the Mycoplasma sp. most frequently found in corvids, though its prevalence and ability to cause disease may involve interaction with other aspects of bird health.}, }
@article {pmid28093026, year = {2017}, author = {Salter, PS and Kelley, NJ and Molina, LE and Thai, LT}, title = {Out of sight, out of mind: racial retrieval cues increase the accessibility of social justice concepts.}, journal = {Memory (Hove, England)}, volume = {25}, number = {8}, pages = {1139-1147}, doi = {10.1080/09658211.2016.1274037}, pmid = {28093026}, issn = {1464-0686}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention/*physiology ; Cues ; Eye Movements/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; Photic Stimulation ; Racism/*psychology ; *Social Justice ; Visual Perception/physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Photographs provide critical retrieval cues for personal remembering, but few studies have considered this phenomenon at the collective level. In this research, we examined the psychological consequences of visual attention to the presence (or absence) of racially charged retrieval cues within American racial segregation photographs. We hypothesised that attention to racial retrieval cues embedded in historical photographs would increase social justice concept accessibility. In Study 1, we recorded gaze patterns with an eye-tracker among participants viewing images that contained racial retrieval cues or were digitally manipulated to remove them. In Study 2, we manipulated participants' gaze behaviour by either directing visual attention toward racial retrieval cues, away from racial retrieval cues, or directing attention within photographs where racial retrieval cues were missing. Across Studies 1 and 2, visual attention to racial retrieval cues in photographs documenting historical segregation predicted social justice concept accessibility.}, }
@article {pmid28067549, year = {2018}, author = {Trojano, L and Siciliano, M and Cristinzio, C and Grossi, D}, title = {Exploring visuospatial abilities and their contribution to constructional abilities and nonverbal intelligence.}, journal = {Applied neuropsychology. Adult}, volume = {25}, number = {2}, pages = {166-173}, doi = {10.1080/23279095.2016.1269009}, pmid = {28067549}, issn = {2327-9109}, mesh = {Adult ; Aptitude/*physiology ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests/standards ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/*standards ; Psychomotor Performance ; Space Perception/*physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The present study aimed at exploring relationships among the visuospatial tasks included in the Battery for Visuospatial Abilities (BVA), and at assessing the relative contribution of different facets of visuospatial processing on tests tapping constructional abilities and nonverbal abstract reasoning. One hundred forty-four healthy subjects with a normal score on Mini Mental State Examination completed the BVA plus Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices and Constructional Apraxia test. We used Principal Axis Factoring and Parallel Analysis to investigate relationships among the BVA visuospatial tasks, and performed regression analyses to assess the visuospatial contribution to constructional abilities and nonverbal abstract reasoning. Principal Axis Factoring and Parallel Analysis revealed two eigenvalues exceeding 1, accounting for about 60% of the variance. A 2-factor model provided the best fit. Factor 1 included sub-tests exploring "complex" visuospatial skills, whereas Factor 2 included two subtests tapping "simple" visuospatial skills. Regression analyses revealed that both Factor 1 and Factor 2 significantly affected performance on Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, whereas only the Factor 1 affected performance on Constructional Apraxia test. Our results supported functional segregation proposed by De Renzi, suggesting clinical caution to utilize a single test to assess visuospatial domain, and qualified the visuospatial contribution in drawing and non-verbal intelligence test.}, }
@article {pmid28057405, year = {2017}, author = {Gao, W and Tan, J and Hüls, A and Ding, A and Liu, Y and Matsui, MS and Vierkötter, A and Krutmann, J and Schikowski, T and Jin, L and Wang, S}, title = {Genetic variants associated with skin aging in the Chinese Han population.}, journal = {Journal of dermatological science}, volume = {86}, number = {1}, pages = {21-29}, doi = {10.1016/j.jdermsci.2016.12.017}, pmid = {28057405}, issn = {1873-569X}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Asian People/genetics ; Female ; *Genetic Association Studies ; *Genetic Variation ; Genotype ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; Risk Factors ; Skin Aging/*genetics ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The progression and manifestation of human skin aging has a strong genetic basis; however, most of the supporting evidence has been gathered in Caucasian populations. The genetic contribution to the variation in skin aging in non-Caucasian populations is poorly understood.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To investigate the genetic risk factors of relevance for skin aging in East Asians, we conducted the first candidate gene study for signs of skin aging in Han Chinese.<br><br>METHODS: We collected skin aging and genotype data in 502 female Han Chinese from the Taizhou cohort. We evaluated skin aging by the validated skin aging score SCINEXA&#x2122;. Confounding factors were assessed through a questionnaire. We obtained the genotype data for 21 candidate SNPs and for a further 509 SNPs from 16 related candidate genes. Associations were tested by linear and logistic regression analyses and adjusted for potential confounders.<br><br>RESULTS: Our candidate study found a significant association between SNP rs2066853 in exon 10 of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor gene AHR and crow's feet. In addition, we found a significant association between SNP rs10733310 in intron 5 of BNC2 and pigment spots on the arms, and between SNP rs11979919, 3kb downstream of COL1A2, and laxity of eyelids.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our results identified genetic risk factors for signs of skin aging (pigmentation, wrinkles or laxity) in Han Chinese. We also found that the manifestation of skin aging is further modified by anatomical site. Together with previous work, our results also suggest that different genetic variants could be responsible for distinct skin aging signs characteristic of Caucasians compared to East Asians.}, }
@article {pmid28053306, year = {2017}, author = {Davidson, G and Miller, R and Loissel, E and Cheke, LG and Clayton, NS}, title = {The development of support intuitions and object causality in juvenile Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius).}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {40062}, pmid = {28053306}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Brain/*physiology ; *Causality ; *Cognition ; *Intuition ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Knowledge about the causal relationship between objects has been studied extensively in human infants, and more recently in adult animals using differential looking time experiments. How knowledge about object support develops in non-human animals has yet to be explored. Here, we studied the ontogeny of support relations in Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius), a bird species known for its sophisticated cognitive abilities. Using an expectancy violation paradigm, we measured looking time responses to possible and impossible video and image stimuli. We also controlled for experience with different support types to determine whether the emergence of support intuitions is dependent upon specific interactions with objects, or if reasoning develops independently. At age 9 months, birds looked more at a tool moving a piece of cheese that was not in contact than one that was in direct contact. By the age of 6 months, birds that had not experienced string as a support to hold up objects looked more at impossible images with string hanging from below (unsupported), rather than above (supported). The development of support intuitions may be independent of direct experience with specific support, or knowledge gained from interactions with other objects may be generalised across contexts.}, }
@article {pmid28050326, year = {2016}, author = {Başar, E and Arıcı, C}, title = {Use of Botulinum Neurotoxin in Ophthalmology.}, journal = {Turkish journal of ophthalmology}, volume = {46}, number = {6}, pages = {282-290}, pmid = {28050326}, issn = {2149-8695}, abstract = {Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) is the first biological toxin used in the treatment of ophthalmic diseases and to decrease skin wrinkles as an aesthetic agent. When used appropriately, it weakens the force of muscular contraction and/or inhibits glandular secretion. The most common areas for botulinum toxin treatment are the upper face, including the glabella, forehead, brows, and lateral canthal lines, or crow's feet. By relaxing the muscles causing wrinkles, non-permanent results may be achieved with its use. BoNT has gained widespread use in a variety of ophthalmic diseases. The effect of BoNT is temporary, but the therapeutic benefit is usually maintained even after repeated injections. Treatment is usually well tolerated. Complications and side effects associated with the treatment are rare and temporary. Complications occur due to weakness (chemodenervation) of adjacent muscle groups, immunological mechanisms and injection technique. Current therapeutic indications, doses, complications and contraindications of BoNT use in the following disorders related to ophthalmology were investigated: aesthetic use, strabismus, blepharospasm, hemifacial spasm, eyelid retraction, entropion, lacrimal hypersecretion syndrome, and facial paralysis.}, }
@article {pmid28045891, year = {2017}, author = {Hofmeister, EK and Lund, M and Shearn-Bochsler, V and Balakrishnan, CN}, title = {Susceptibility and Antibody Response of the Laboratory Model Zebra Finch (Taeniopygia guttata) to West Nile Virus.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {e0167876}, pmid = {28045891}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; *Antibody Formation ; Australia ; Bird Diseases/*immunology/virology ; Disease Models, Animal ; Disease Susceptibility ; Finches/*virology ; Indonesia ; Male ; Regression Analysis ; Species Specificity ; Viremia/*immunology ; West Nile Fever/*immunology ; West Nile virus/immunology ; }, abstract = {Since the introduction of West Nile virus (WNV) into North America in 1999 a number of passerine bird species have been found to play a role in the amplification of the virus. Arbovirus surveillance, observational studies and experimental studies have implicated passerine birds (songbirds, e.g., crows, American robins, house sparrows, and house finches) as significant reservoirs of WNV in North America, yet we lack a tractable passerine animal model for controlled studies of the virus. The zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata) serves as a model system across a diversity of fields, and here we develop the zebra finch a songbird model for WNV. Like many natural hosts of WNV, we found that zebra finches developed sufficient viremia to serve as a competent host, yet in general resisted mortality from infection. In the Australian zebra finch (AZF) T. g. castanotis, we detected WNV in the majority of sampled tissues by 4 days post injection (dpi). However, WNV was not detected in tissues of sacrificed birds at 14 dpi, shortly after the development of detectable anti-WNV antibodies in the majority of birds indicating successful viral clearance. We compared susceptibility between the two zebra finch subspecies AZF and Timor zebra finch (TZF) T. g. guttata. Compared to AZF, WNV RNA was detected in a larger proportion of challenged TZF and molecular detection of virus in the serum of TZF was significantly higher than in AZF. Given the observed moderate host competence and disease susceptibility, we suggest that zebra finches are appropriate as models for the study of WNV and although underutilized in this respect, may be ideal models for the study of the many diseases carried and transmitted by songbirds.}, }
@article {pmid28039662, year = {2017}, author = {Kubricht, JR and Lu, H and Holyoak, KJ}, title = {Individual differences in spontaneous analogical transfer.}, journal = {Memory &amp; cognition}, volume = {45}, number = {4}, pages = {576-588}, pmid = {28039662}, issn = {1532-5946}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; *Individuality ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Transfer, Psychology/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Research on analogical problem solving has shown that people often fail to spontaneously notice the relevance of a semantically remote source analog when solving a target problem, although they are able to form mappings and derive inferences when given a hint to recall the source. Relatively little work has investigated possible individual differences that predict spontaneous transfer, or how such differences may interact with interventions that facilitate transfer. In this study, fluid intelligence was measured for participants in an analogical problem-solving task, using an abridged version of the Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM) test. In two experiments, we systematically compared the effect of augmenting verbal descriptions of the source with animations or static diagrams. Solution rates to Duncker's radiation problem were measured across varying source presentation conditions, and participants' understanding of the relevant source material was assessed. The pattern of transfer was best fit by a moderated mediation model: the positive impact of fluid intelligence on spontaneous transfer was mediated by its influence on source comprehension; however, this path was in turn modulated by provision of a supplemental animation via its influence on comprehension of the source. Animated source depictions were most beneficial in facilitating spontaneous transfer for those participants with low scores on the fluid intelligence measure.}, }
@article {pmid28035889, year = {2017}, author = {Griesser, M and Suzuki, TN}, title = {Naive Juveniles Are More Likely to Become Breeders after Witnessing Predator Mobbing.}, journal = {The American naturalist}, volume = {189}, number = {1}, pages = {58-66}, doi = {10.1086/689477}, pmid = {28035889}, issn = {1537-5323}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Genetic Fitness ; *Passeriformes ; Predatory Behavior ; *Reproduction ; }, abstract = {Responding appropriately during the first predatory attack in life is often critical for survival. In many social species, naive juveniles acquire this skill from conspecifics, but its fitness consequences remain virtually unknown. Here we experimentally demonstrate how naive juvenile Siberian jays (Perisoreus infaustus) derive a long-term fitness benefit from witnessing knowledgeable adults mobbing their principal predator, the goshawk (Accipiter gentilis). Siberian jays live in family groups of two to six individuals that also can include unrelated nonbreeders. Field observations showed that Siberian jays encounter predators only rarely, and, indeed, naive juveniles do not respond to predator models when on their own but do when observing other individuals mobbing them. Predator exposure experiments demonstrated that naive juveniles had a substantially higher first-winter survival after observing knowledgeable group members mobbing a goshawk model, increasing their likelihood of acquiring a breeding position later in life. Previous research showed that naive individuals may learn from others how to respond to predators, care for offspring, or choose mates, generally assuming that social learning has long-term fitness consequences without empirical evidence. Our results demonstrate a long-term fitness benefit of vertical social learning for naive individuals in the wild, emphasizing its evolutionary importance in animals, including humans.}, }
@article {pmid28009045, year = {2017}, author = {Little, BB and Peña Reyes, ME and Malina, RM}, title = {Natural selection and type 2 diabetes-associated mortality in an isolated indigenous community in the valley of Oaxaca, southern Mexico.}, journal = {American journal of physical anthropology}, volume = {162}, number = {3}, pages = {561-572}, doi = {10.1002/ajpa.23139}, pmid = {28009045}, issn = {1096-8644}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/*ethnology/*mortality ; Female ; Fertility/*physiology ; Humans ; Indians, Central American/*ethnology/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Mexico/ethnology ; Middle Aged ; Rural Population ; *Selection, Genetic ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study tests the hypothesis that natural selection is associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D)-associated mortality and fertility in a rural isolated Zapotec community in the Valley of Oaxaca, southern Mexico.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: Mortality data and related demographic and genealogic information were linked with data for fertility, prereproductive mortality and family history of mortality attributed to T2D. Physician verified T2D mortality (n = 27) between 1980 and 2009 and imputed T2D (n = 70) from cardiovascular mortality (68% random sample) and renal failure (44% random sample). Bootstrapping was used to obtain a robust variance estimate in survival analysis and multivariate analysis of variance.<br><br>RESULTS: Estimated maximum natural selection by Crow's Index occurred circa 1930 and was relaxed after this time in the study population. Cox-regression survival analysis of T2D mortality with covariates (family history of T2D, cardiovascular disease, renal failure) indicated a significant hazard ratio (HR&#x2009;=&#x2009;5.95, 95% CI: 1.38-25.67, p < .008) for the increase in T2D in 2000 to 2009. Survival analysis of imputed T2D resulted in a significant HR of 2.03 (95% CI: 1.08-3.85, p = .01) for the increase in T2D in the 2000 to 2009 cohort (reference group: 1980-1989). Mean number of live born offspring was lower among T2D (n = 27, 4.04&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;3.85 SD) compared to non-T2D (n = 199, 5.30&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;3.48) groups (p < .08). Mean number of live born offspring was lower (p = .003) among imputed T2D compared to non-T2D groups (4.10&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;3.44 vs. 5.62&#x2009;+&#x2009;3.50).<br><br>DISCUSSION: T2D-associated mortality increased in frequency as natural selection decreased, and favored offspring survival of non-T2D descedants. The results indicated statistically significant directional selection against T2D and imputed T2D to this population isolate.}, }
@article {pmid28004959, year = {2017}, author = {Lovett, A and Forbus, K}, title = {Modeling visual problem solving as analogical reasoning.}, journal = {Psychological review}, volume = {124}, number = {1}, pages = {60-90}, doi = {10.1037/rev0000039}, pmid = {28004959}, issn = {1939-1471}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Female ; Humans ; *Logic ; Male ; Models, Psychological ; *Problem Solving ; *Thinking ; *Visual Perception ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {We present a computational model of visual problem solving, designed to solve problems from the Raven's Progressive Matrices intelligence test. The model builds on the claim that analogical reasoning lies at the heart of visual problem solving, and intelligence more broadly. Images are compared via structure mapping, aligning the common relational structure in 2 images to identify commonalities and differences. These commonalities or differences can themselves be reified and used as the input for future comparisons. When images fail to align, the model dynamically rerepresents them to facilitate the comparison. In our analysis, we find that the model matches adult human performance on the Standard Progressive Matrices test, and that problems which are difficult for the model are also difficult for people. Furthermore, we show that model operations involving abstraction and rerepresentation are particularly difficult for people, suggesting that these operations may be critical for performing visual problem solving, and reasoning more generally, at the highest level. (PsycINFO Database Record}, }
@article {pmid27988896, year = {2017}, author = {Krieger, N and Jahn, JL and Waterman, PD}, title = {Jim Crow and estrogen-receptor-negative breast cancer: US-born black and white non-Hispanic women, 1992-2012.}, journal = {Cancer causes &amp; control : CCC}, volume = {28}, number = {1}, pages = {49-59}, doi = {10.1007/s10552-016-0834-2}, pmid = {27988896}, issn = {1573-7225}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Black People ; Breast Neoplasms/metabolism/*pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Prognosis ; *Racism ; Receptors, Estrogen/*metabolism ; Risk Factors ; SEER Program ; Socioeconomic Factors ; United States ; White People ; Black or African American ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: It is unknown whether Jim Crow-i.e., legal racial discrimination practiced by 21 US states and the District of Columbia and outlawed by the US Civil Rights Act in 1964-affects US cancer outcomes. We hypothesized that Jim Crow birthplace would be associated with higher risk of estrogen-receptor-negative (ER-) breast tumors among US black, but not white, women and also a higher black versus white risk for ER- tumors.<br><br>METHODS: We analyzed data from the SEER 13 registry group (excluding Alaska) for 47,157 US-born black non-Hispanic and 348,514 US-born white non-Hispanic women, aged 25-84 inclusive, diagnosed with primary invasive breast cancer between 1 January 1992 and 31 December 2012.<br><br>RESULTS: Jim Crow birthplace was associated with increased odds of ER- breast cancer only among the black, not white women, with the effect strongest for women born before 1965. Among black women, the odds ratio (OR) for an ER- tumor, comparing women born in a Jim Crow versus not Jim Crow state, equaled 1.09 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06, 1.13), on par with the OR comparing women in the worst versus best census tract socioeconomic quintiles (1.15; 95% CI 1.07, 1.23). The black versus white OR for ER- was higher among women born in Jim Crow versus non-Jim Crow states (1.41 [95% CI 1.13, 1.46] vs. 1.27 [95% CI 1.24, 1.31]).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The unique Jim Crow effect for US black women for breast cancer ER status underscores why analysis of racial/ethnic inequities must be historically contextualized.}, }
@article {pmid27979010, year = {2016}, author = {Gillum, RF and Dodd, KD}, title = {Soul Mates: Religion, Sex, Love, and Marriage among African Americans and Latinos.}, journal = {Journal of the National Medical Association}, volume = {108}, number = {4}, pages = {244-245}, doi = {10.1016/j.jnma.2016.08.007}, pmid = {27979010}, issn = {0027-9684}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: This book review analyzes the complex and profound impact active religious participation has on relationships and family outcomes among African Americans and Latinos. In Soul Mates, Wilcox and Wolfinger discuss the legacy of slavery and Jim Crow laws and the resulting devastating effects on African American and Latino families despite their high religious involvement. The authors make the case that many African American men are unlikely candidates for marriage or stable relationships due to trends of family instability driven by the declining income-power of working-class men as well as entry of more women into the labor force, government penalties for low-income couples, revolt against traditional values, increased access to birth control and abortion, and the persistence of discrimination and incarceration of minority men.<br><br>METHODS: The authors examine data from six national surveys as well as additional data from interviews, focus groups, ethnographic field work, and an extensive literature review.<br><br>RESULTS: Wilcox and Wolfinger find evidence that when African American couples actively participate in Christian churches, the men are more likely to adhere to a "code of decency" which decreases street behaviors, such as binge drinking, having multiple sex partners, and having multi-partner fertility, which are known to inhibit family stability.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This book will be helpful for health providers who would like to better understand and serve their African American and Latino patients. The findings suggest that health care providers can promote a healthy emotional environment for families by encouraging minority men to renew or maintain church involvement.}, }
@article {pmid27973610, year = {2016}, author = {Neilands, PD and Jelbert, SA and Breen, AJ and Schiestl, M and Taylor, AH}, title = {How Insightful Is 'Insight'? New Caledonian Crows Do Not Attend to Object Weight during Spontaneous Stone Dropping.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {11}, number = {12}, pages = {e0167419}, pmid = {27973610}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Tool Use Behavior/physiology ; }, abstract = {It is highly difficult to pinpoint what is going through an animal's mind when it appears to solve a problem by 'insight'. Here, we searched for an information processing error during the emergence of seemingly insightful stone dropping in New Caledonian crows. We presented these birds with the platform apparatus, where a heavy object needs to be dropped down a tube and onto a platform in order to trigger the release of food. Our results show New Caledonian crows exhibit a weight inattention error: they do not attend to the weight of an object when innovating stone dropping. This suggests that these crows do not use an understanding of force when solving the platform task in a seemingly insightful manner. Our findings showcase the power of the signature-testing approach, where experiments search for information processing biases, errors and limits, in order to make strong inferences about the functioning of animal minds.}, }
@article {pmid27936242, year = {2016}, author = {Miller, R and Jelbert, SA and Taylor, AH and Cheke, LG and Gray, RD and Loissel, E and Clayton, NS}, title = {Performance in Object-Choice Aesop's Fable Tasks Are Influenced by Object Biases in New Caledonian Crows but not in Human Children.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {11}, number = {12}, pages = {e0168056}, pmid = {27936242}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Choice Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; Humans ; }, abstract = {The ability to reason about causality underlies key aspects of human cognition, but the extent to which non-humans understand causality is still largely unknown. The Aesop's Fable paradigm, where objects are inserted into water-filled tubes to obtain out-of-reach rewards, has been used to test casual reasoning in birds and children. However, success on these tasks may be influenced by other factors, specifically, object preferences present prior to testing or arising during pre-test stone-dropping training. Here, we assessed this 'object-bias' hypothesis by giving New Caledonian crows and 5-10 year old children two object-choice Aesop's Fable experiments: sinking vs. floating objects, and solid vs. hollow objects. Before each test, we assessed subjects' object preferences and/or trained them to prefer the alternative object. Both crows and children showed pre-test object preferences, suggesting that birds in previous Aesop's Fable studies may also have had initial preferences for objects that proved to be functional on test. After training to prefer the non-functional object, crows, but not children, performed more poorly on these two object-choice Aesop's Fable tasks than subjects in previous studies. Crows dropped the non-functional objects into the tube on their first trials, indicating that, unlike many children, they do not appear to have an a priori understanding of water displacement. Alternatively, issues with inhibition could explain their performance. The crows did, however, learn to solve the tasks over time. We tested crows further to determine whether their eventual success was based on learning about the functional properties of the objects, or associating dropping the functional object with reward. Crows inserted significantly more rewarded, non-functional objects than non-rewarded, functional objects. These findings suggest that the ability of New Caledonian crows to produce performances rivaling those of young children on object-choice Aesop's Fable tasks is partly due to pre-existing object preferences.}, }
@article {pmid27933285, year = {2016}, author = {Cardona, F and Valente, F and Miraglia, D and D'Ardia, C and Baglioni, V and Chiarotti, F}, title = {Developmental Profile and Diagnoses in Children Presenting with Motor Stereotypies.}, journal = {Frontiers in pediatrics}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {126}, pmid = {27933285}, issn = {2296-2360}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Motor stereotypies represent a typical example of the difficulty in distinguishing non-clinical behaviors (physiological and transient) from symptoms or among different disorders ["primary stereotypies," associated with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disabilities, genetic syndromes, and sensory impairment]. The aim of this study was to obtain an accurate assessment on the relationship between stereotypies and neurodevelopmental disorders.<br><br>METHODS: We studied 23 children (3 girls), aged 36-95&#x2009;months, who requested a consultation due to the persistence or increased severity of motor stereotypies. None of the patients had a previous diagnosis of ASD. The assessment included the Motor Severity Stereotypy Scale (MSSS), the Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised (RBS-R), the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, the Child Behavior CheckList for ages 1&#xbd;-5 or 4-18 (CBCL), the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-second edition (ADOS 2).<br><br>RESULTS: All patients were showing motor stereotypies for periods of time varying from 6 to 77&#x2009;months. The MSSS showed that each child had a limited number of stereotypies; their frequency and intensity were mild. The interference of stereotypies was variable; the impairment in daily life was mild. The RBS-R scores were positive for the subscale of "stereotypic behaviors" in all children. Moreover, several children presented other repetitive behaviors, mainly "ritualistic behavior" and "sameness behavior." All patients showed a normal cognitive level. The CBCL evidenced behavioral problems in 22% of the children: internalizing problems, attention, and withdrawn were the main complaints. On the SRS, all but one of the tested patients obtained clinical scores in the clinical range for at least one area. On the ADOS 2, 4 patients obtained scores indicating a moderate level of ASD symptoms, 4 had a mild level, and 15 showed no or minimal signs of ASD.<br><br>DISCUSSION: Motor stereotypies in children with normal cognitive level represent a challenging diagnostic issue for which a finely tailored assessment is mandatory in order to define a precise developmental profile. Thus, careful and cautious use of standardized tests is warranted to avoid misdiagnosis. Furthermore, it is hard to consider motor stereotypies, even the primary ones, exclusively as a movement disorder.}, }
@article {pmid27929345, year = {2016}, author = {Ruiz, MJ and Paolieri, D and Colzato, LS and Bajo, MT}, title = {Directed forgetting of memories in cocaine users.}, journal = {Experimental and clinical psychopharmacology}, volume = {24}, number = {6}, pages = {423-435}, doi = {10.1037/pha0000100}, pmid = {27929345}, issn = {1936-2293}, mesh = {Adult ; Case-Control Studies ; Cocaine/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Cocaine-Related Disorders/*psychology/rehabilitation ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory/*drug effects ; Mental Recall/*drug effects ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Memory retrieval requires an effective recruitment of inhibitory control to successfully reject unnecessary memories. The use of cocaine is associated with poor cognitive control processes, but little is known about the impact of chronic and recreational use of cocaine on inhibitory control during intentional forgetting. We studied whether chronic and recreational users of cocaine show impairments on the mechanism responsible for intentional forgetting of memories. Two experiments were carried out on chronic cocaine users in rehabilitation (Experiment 1) and recreational cocaine polydrug users (Experiment 2) performing a directed forgetting (DF) task, an index of memory suppression. Participants were matched for sex, age, and intelligence (Raven's standard progressive matrices) with cocaine-free controls and compared on their performance on a DF procedure. Chronic cocaine users in rehabilitation and recreational cocaine polydrug users, as compared with controls, were not able to intentionally suppress the required information and they did not show a reliable DF effect. The consumption of cocaine appears to alter the control processes implicated in intentional suppression of nonrelevant memories in episodic memory. The use of cocaine, even for recreational purposes, seems to be associated with poor performance in effectively triggering this control mechanism. The inability to suppress interference in declarative memory may have repercussion for daily activities. (PsycINFO Database Record}, }
@article {pmid27928244, year = {2016}, author = {Zarrabipoor, H and Tehrani-Doost, M and Shahrivar, Z}, title = {Theory of Mind in Adolescents with Bipolar Disorder in Euthymic Phase: ‎Using the Strange Stories Test.}, journal = {Iranian journal of psychiatry}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {133-139}, pmid = {27928244}, issn = {1735-4587}, abstract = {Objective: This study evaluated the theory of mind (ToM) in adolescents diagnosed with bipolar disorder ‎‎(BD) during their euthymic period compared to a typically developing (TD) group.‎ Method: The BD group consisted of thirty 11-18 year old inpatients in euthymic phase. The TD ‎group included 30 age, gender, and IQ matched volunteer students. To assess the diagnosis and ‎comorbid disorders, we performed the semi-structured interview of the Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders ‎and Schizophrenia-Present and Lifetime Version (K-SADS-PL) for the BD adolescents. To ‎evaluate the severity of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and mania, Conner's ‎Parent Rating Scale-Revised version (CPRS-R), and Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) were ‎used, respectively. Ravens Progressive Matrices was conducted to evaluate intellectual ability in ‎the both groups. Happe Strange Stories test was performed to assess ToM in the participants. Data were ‎analyzed using the independent t-test, analysis of covariance, and Pearson Correlation analysis.‎ Results: The two groups did not show any differences in comprehending the stories; however, the BD ‎group's mentalizing scores were significantly weaker than the TD group (p<0.05).‎‎ Conclusion: The ToM impairments in adolescents with BD may be explained as a trait marker which may lead ‎to continuation of social problems even during remission‏.‏.}, }
@article {pmid27922802, year = {2017}, author = {Sándor, AD and Kalmár, Z and Matei, I and Ionică, AM and Mărcuţan, ID}, title = {Urban Breeding Corvids as Disseminators of Ticks and Emerging Tick-Borne Pathogens.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {152-154}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2016.2054}, pmid = {27922802}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Animal Distribution ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology ; Cities ; *Crows ; Humans ; Tick Infestations/parasitology/*veterinary ; Tick-Borne Diseases/transmission/*veterinary ; Ticks/*microbiology ; Zoonoses ; }, abstract = {Crows (Corvidae) are common city dwellers worldwide and are increasingly important subjects of epidemiology studies. Although their importance as hosts and transmitters of a number of zoonotic parasites and pathogens is well known, there are no studies on their importance as tick hosts. After mosquitoes, ticks are the most important vectors of zoonotic pathogens, especially for those causing emerging zoonotic diseases. Pathogenic bacteria, especially Borrelia spp., Rickettsia spp., and Anaplasma spp., vectored by ticks, are the cause for most vector-borne diseases in Europe. Here we report on ticks and tick-borne pathogens harbored by urban breeding crows. A total of 36 birds (33.33%, n = 108) hosted ticks, with 91 individual ticks belonging to 6 species (Haemaphysalis concinna, Haemaphysalis parva, Haemaphysalis punctata, Hyalomma marginatum, Ixodes arboricola, and Ixodes ricinus). Rickettsia spp. DNA was found in 6.6% of ticks and 1.9% of bird tissues, whereas Anaplasma phagocytophilum was found in 5.9% of ticks and 0.9% of birds. Two rickettsial genospecies were located, Rickettsia helvetica and Rickettsia monacensis. This is the first study to determine such a diverse tick spectrum feeding on urban corvids, while highlighting their importance as tick hosts and raising concerns about their potential risk to human health.}, }
@article {pmid27920957, year = {2016}, author = {Miller, R and Logan, CJ and Lister, K and Clayton, NS}, title = {Eurasian jays do not copy the choices of conspecifics, but they do show evidence of stimulus enhancement.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {e2746}, pmid = {27920957}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {Corvids (birds in the crow family) are hypothesised to have a general cognitive tool-kit because they show a wide range of transferrable skills across social, physical and temporal tasks, despite differences in socioecology. However, it is unknown whether relatively asocial corvids differ from social corvids in their use of social information in the context of copying the choices of others, because only one such test has been conducted in a relatively asocial corvid. We investigated whether relatively asocial Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius) use social information (i.e., information made available by others). Previous studies have indicated that jays attend to social context in their caching and mate provisioning behaviour; however, it is unknown whether jays copy the choices of others. We tested the jays in two different tasks varying in difficulty, where social corvid species have demonstrated social information use in both tasks. Firstly, an object-dropping task was conducted requiring objects to be dropped down a tube to release a food reward from a collapsible platform, which corvids can learn through explicit training. Only one rook and one New Caledonian crow have learned the task using social information from a demonstrator. Secondly, we tested the birds on a simple colour discrimination task, which should be easy to solve, because it has been shown that corvids can make colour discriminations. Using the same colour discrimination task in a previous study, all common ravens and carrion crows copied the demonstrator. After observing a conspecific demonstrator, none of the jays solved the object-dropping task, though all jays were subsequently able to learn to solve the task in a non-social situation through explicit training, and jays chose the demonstrated colour at chance levels. Our results suggest that social and relatively asocial corvids differ in social information use, indicating that relatively asocial species may have secondarily lost this ability due to lack of selection pressure from an asocial environment.}, }
@article {pmid27920750, year = {2016}, author = {Zajenkowski, M and Stolarski, M and Witowska, J and Maciantowicz, O and Łowicki, P}, title = {Fluid Intelligence as a Mediator of the Relationship between Executive Control and Balanced Time Perspective.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {1844}, pmid = {27920750}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {This study examined the cognitive foundations of the balanced time perspective (BTP) proposed by Zimbardo and Boyd (1999). Although BTP is defined as the mental ability to switch effectively between different temporal perspectives, its connection with cognitive functioning has not yet been established. We addressed this by exploring the relationships between time perspectives and both fluid intelligence (measured with Raven's and Cattell's tests) and executive control (Go/No-go and anti-saccade tasks). An investigation conducted among Polish adults (N = 233) revealed that more balanced TP profile was associated with higher fluid intelligence, and higher executive control. Moreover, we found that the relationship between executive control and BTP was completely mediated by fluid intelligence with the effect size (the ratio of the indirect effect to the total effect) of 0.75, which suggests that cognitive abilities play an important role in adoption of temporal balance. The findings have relevance to time perspective theory as they provide valuable insight into the mechanisms involved in assigning human experience to certain time frames.}, }
@article {pmid27917748, year = {2016}, author = {Pahor, A and Jaušovec, N}, title = {Making Brains run Faster: are they Becoming Smarter?.}, journal = {The Spanish journal of psychology}, volume = {19}, number = {}, pages = {E88}, doi = {10.1017/sjp.2016.83}, pmid = {27917748}, issn = {1988-2904}, mesh = {Adult ; Alpha Rhythm/*physiology ; Attention/*physiology ; Brain/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {A brief overview of structural and functional brain characteristics related to g is presented in the light of major neurobiological theories of intelligence: Neural Efficiency, P-FIT and Multiple-Demand system. These theories provide a framework to discuss the main objective of the paper: what is the relationship between individual alpha frequency (IAF) and g? Three studies were conducted in order to investigate this relationship: two correlational studies and a third study in which we experimentally induced changes in IAF by means of transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS). (1) In a large scale study (n = 417), no significant correlations between IAF and IQ were observed. However, in males IAF positively correlated with mental rotation and shape manipulation and with an attentional focus on detail. (2) The second study showed sex-specific correlations between IAF (obtained during task performance) and scope of attention in males and between IAF and reaction time in females. (3) In the third study, individuals' IAF was increased with tACS. The induced changes in IAF had a disrupting effect on male performance on Raven's matrices, whereas a mild positive effect was observed for females. Neuro-electric activity after verum tACS showed increased desynchronization in the upper alpha band and dissociation between fronto-parietal and right temporal brain areas during performance on Raven's matrices. The results are discussed in the light of gender differences in brain structure and activity.}, }
@article {pmid27917117, year = {2016}, author = {Maraver, MJ and Bajo, MT and Gomez-Ariza, CJ}, title = {Training on Working Memory and Inhibitory Control in Young Adults.}, journal = {Frontiers in human neuroscience}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {588}, pmid = {27917117}, issn = {1662-5161}, abstract = {Different types of interventions have focused on trying to improve Executive Functions (EFs) due to their essential role in human cognition and behavior regulation. Although EFs are thought to be diverse, most training studies have targeted cognitive processes related to working memory (WM), and fewer have focused on training other control mechanisms, such as inhibitory control (IC). In the present study, we aimed to investigate the differential impact of training WM and IC as compared with control conditions performing non-executive control activities. Young adults were divided into two training (WM/IC) and two (active/passive) control conditions. Over six sessions, the training groups engaged in three different computer-based adaptive activities (WM or IC), whereas the active control group completed a program with low control-demanding activities that mainly involved processing speed. In addition, motivation and engagement were monitored through the training. The WM-training activities required maintenance, updating and memory search processes, while those from the IC group engaged response inhibition and interference control. All participants were pre- and post-tested in criterion tasks (n-back and Stroop), near transfer measures of WM (Operation Span) and IC (Stop-Signal). Non-trained far transfer outcome measures included an abstract reasoning test (Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices) and a well-validated experimental task (AX-CPT) that provides indices of cognitive flexibility considering proactive/reactive control. Training results revealed that strongly motivated participants reached higher levels of training improvements. Regarding transfer effects, results showed specific patterns of near transfer effects depending on the type of training. Interestingly, it was only the IC training group that showed far transfer to reasoning. Finally, all trained participants showed a shift toward a more proactive mode of cognitive control, highlighting a general effect of training on cognitive flexibility. The present results reveal specific and general modulations of executive control mechanisms after brief training intervention targeting either WM or IC.}, }
@article {pmid27893249, year = {2016}, author = {Ujma, PP and Sándor, P and Szakadát, S and Gombos, F and Bódizs, R}, title = {Sleep spindles and intelligence in early childhood-developmental and trait-dependent aspects.}, journal = {Developmental psychology}, volume = {52}, number = {12}, pages = {2118-2129}, doi = {10.1037/dev0000233}, pmid = {27893249}, issn = {1939-0599}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Brain Mapping ; Child ; *Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; Electroencephalography ; Female ; Humans ; *Individuality ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Polysomnography ; *Sex Characteristics ; Sleep/*physiology ; Spectrum Analysis ; }, abstract = {Sleep spindles act as a powerful marker of individual differences in cognitive ability. Sleep spindle parameters correlate with both age-related changes in cognitive abilities and with the age-independent concept of IQ. While some studies have specifically demonstrated the relationship between sleep spindles and intelligence in young children, our previous work in older subjects revealed sex differences in the sleep spindle correlates of IQ, which was never investigated in small children before. We investigated the relationship between age, Raven Colored Progressive Matrices (CPM) scores and sleep spindles in 28 young children (age 4-8 years, 15 girls). We specifically investigated sex differences in the psychometric correlates of sleep spindles. We also aimed to separate the correlates of sleep spindles that are because of age-related maturation from other effects that reflect an age-independent relationship between sleep spindles and general intelligence. Our results revealed a modest positive correlation between fast spindle amplitude and age. Raven CPM scores positively correlated with both slow and fast spindle amplitude, but this effect remained a tendency in males and vanished after correcting for the effects of age. Age-corrected correlations between Raven CPM scores and both slow and fast spindle amplitude were only significant in females. Overall, our results show that in male children sleep spindles are a maturational marker, but in female children they indicate trait-like intelligence, in line with previous studies in adolescent and adult subjects. Thalamocortical white matter connectivity may be the underlying mechanism behind both higher spindle amplitude and higher intelligence in female, but not male subjects. (PsycINFO Database Record}, }
@article {pmid27890937, year = {2016}, author = {Greggor, AL and Jolles, JW and Thornton, A and Clayton, NS}, title = {Seasonal changes in neophobia and its consistency in rooks: the effect of novelty type and dominance position.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {121}, number = {}, pages = {11-20}, pmid = {27890937}, issn = {0003-3472}, support = {BB/H021817/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {Neophobia, or the fear of novelty, may offer benefits to animals by limiting their exposure to unknown danger, but can also impose costs by preventing the exploration of potential resources. The costs and benefits of neophobia may vary throughout the year if predation pressure, resource distribution or conspecific competition changes seasonally. Despite such variation, neophobia levels are often assumed to be temporally and individually stable. Whether or not neophobia expression changes seasonally and fluctuates equally for all individuals is crucial to understanding the drivers, consequences and plasticity of novelty avoidance. We investigated seasonal differences and individual consistency in the motivation and novelty responses of a captive group of rooks, Corvus frugilegus, a seasonally breeding, colonial species of corvid that is known for being neophobic. We tested the group around novel objects and novel people to determine whether responses generalized across novelty types, and considered whether differences in dominance could influence the social risk of approaching unknown stimuli. We found that the group's level of object neophobia was stable year-round, but individuals were not consistent between seasons, despite being consistent within seasons. In contrast, the group's avoidance of novel people decreased during the breeding season, and individuals were consistent year-round. Additionally, although subordinate birds were more likely to challenge dominants during the breeding season, this social risk taking did not translate to greater novelty approach. Since seasonal variation and individual consistency varied differently towards each novelty type, responses towards novel objects and people seem to be governed by different mechanisms. Such a degree of fluctuation has consequences for other individually consistent behaviours often measured within the nonhuman personality literature.}, }
@article {pmid27888998, year = {2016}, author = {Romero, R and Nygaard, I}, title = {Jay D. Iams, MD, AJOG Editor.}, journal = {American journal of obstetrics and gynecology}, volume = {215}, number = {6}, pages = {679-681}, pmid = {27888998}, issn = {1097-6868}, support = {Z99 HD999999//Intramural NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Editorial Policies ; *Gynecology/history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; *Obstetrics/history ; Pediatrics/history ; Perinatology/history ; *Periodicals as Topic/history ; Premature Birth/prevention &amp; control ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid27884400, year = {2016}, author = {Sheldon, M}, title = {Stephen Jay Gould and the Value of Neutrality of Science During the Cold War.}, journal = {Endeavour}, volume = {40}, number = {4}, pages = {248-255}, doi = {10.1016/j.endeavour.2016.10.003}, pmid = {27884400}, issn = {1873-1929}, abstract = {Stephen Jay Gould was a paleontologist and scientific celebrity at the close of the twentieth century, most famous for his popular writings on evolution and his role in the American creationist controversies of that era. In the early 1980s, Gould was drawn into the "nuclear winter" episode through his friendship with Carl Sagan, an astronomer and popular science celebrity. Sagan helped develop the theory of nuclear winter and subsequently used the theory as evidence to petition the United States government to scale back its nuclear armament. The theory of nuclear winter claimed that even a small nuclear exchange could result in a atmospheric blackening akin to the extinction event of the late Cretaceous. Gould was not a climate scientist but he testified before the U.S. House of Representatives as an expert on historical extinction events. Gould's insistence on the value-neutrality of nuclear winter reveals much about the moral politics of science in late Cold War America. Coming at the heels of leftist scientific activism of the 1980s, the nuclear winter episode demonstrates how value-neutrality emerged the salient feature of scientific involvement in American politics in this period.}, }
@article {pmid27884065, year = {2017}, author = {Wanitphakdeedecha, R and Ungaksornpairote, C and Kaewkes, A and Sathaworawong, A and Lektrakul, N and Manuskiatti, W}, title = {The efficacy of two formulations of botulinum toxin type A for masseter reduction: a split-face comparison study.}, journal = {The Journal of dermatological treatment}, volume = {28}, number = {5}, pages = {443-446}, doi = {10.1080/09546634.2016.1263382}, pmid = {27884065}, issn = {1471-1753}, mesh = {Acetylcholine Release Inhibitors/*administration &amp; dosage ; Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Drug Compounding ; Female ; Humans ; Hypertrophy/diagnostic imaging/*drug therapy ; Masseter Muscle/*abnormalities/diagnostic imaging ; Middle Aged ; Patient Satisfaction ; Republic of Korea ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin type A (BTA) is now extensively used to address cosmetic concerns. OnabotulinumtoxinA (ONA, Botox; Allergan Inc., Irvine, CA) received FDA approval for upper face rejuvenation, including glabella frown lines and crow's-feet lines. The other off-label uses for lower face conditions have been utilized for contouring purposes, especially masseter hypertrophy. Recently, a new Daewoong BTA, (NABOTA[®], NBT, Daewoong Pharmaceutical, Seoul, Korea), was recently introduced.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To compare efficacy and safety of ONA and NBT for masseter reduction.<br><br>METHODS: Thirty-five subjects with masseter hypertrophy were randomly injected with 25 units of ONA on one side and 25 units of NBT on the other side into masseter. Standardized photographic documentation was obtained at baseline, 1, 3 and 6 months after treatment. The mean volume of masseter was acquired by using three-dimensional computed tomography (3-D CT) at baseline, 3-, and 6-month follow-up visits. In addition, patients' satisfaction and side effects were also record at every follow-up visits.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean masseter volume on the sides treated with ONA and NBT at baseline were 21.20&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;4.23&#x2009;cm[3] and 21.26&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;4.58&#x2009;cm[3], respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the mean volume of both sides (p=&#x2009;0.827). The mean masseter volume at 3- and 6-month follow-up visits reduced significantly on both ONA and NBT sides (p<&#x2009;0.001 and p<&#x2009;0.001, respectively). However, there was no statistically significant difference in mean masseter volume when comparing between ONA and NBT sides at 3 and 6 months after treatment (p=&#x2009;0.769 and p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.346, respectively). There was also no statistically significant difference in masseter reduction when compared between ONA and NBT sides evaluated by physicians and patients at each follow-up visit. No side effect on both sides was reported after injection.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that ONA and NBT provided comparable efficacy and safety for masseter reduction.}, }
@article {pmid27881787, year = {2016}, author = {Ditz, HM and Nieder, A}, title = {Sensory and Working Memory Representations of Small and Large Numerosities in the Crow Endbrain.}, journal = {The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience}, volume = {36}, number = {47}, pages = {12044-12052}, pmid = {27881787}, issn = {1529-2401}, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Mathematical Concepts ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Nerve Net/*physiology ; Telencephalon/*physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Neurons in the avian nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL), an endbrain structure that originated independently from the mammalian neocortex, process visual numerosities. To clarify the code for number in this anatomically distinct endbrain area in birds, neuronal responses to a broad range of numerosities were analyzed. We recorded single-neuron activity from the NCL of crows performing a delayed match-to-sample task with visual numerosities as discriminanda. The responses of >20% of randomly selected neurons were modulated significantly by numerosities ranging from one to 30 items. Numerosity-selective neurons showed bell-shaped tuning curves with one of the presented numerosities as preferred numerosity regardless of the physical appearance of the items. The resulting labeled-line code exhibited logarithmic compression obeying the Weber-Fechner law for magnitudes. Comparable proportions of selective neurons were found, not only during stimulus presentation, but also in the delay phase, indicating a dominant role of the NCL in numerical working memory. Both during sensory encoding and memorization of numerosities in working memory, NCL activity predicted the crows' number discrimination performance. These neuronal data reveal striking similarities across vertebrate taxa in their code for number despite convergently evolved and anatomically distinct endbrain structures.<br><br>SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Birds are known for their capabilities to process numerical quantity. However, birds lack a six-layered neocortex that enables primates with numerical competence. We aimed to decipher the neuronal code for numerical quantity in the independently and distinctly evolved endbrain of birds. We recorded the activity of neurons in an endbrain association area termed nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL) from crows that assessed and briefly memorized numerosities from one to 30 dots. We report a neuronal code for sensory representation and working memory of numerosities in the crow NCL exhibiting several characteristics that are surprisingly similar to the ones found in primates. Our data suggest a common code for number in two different vertebrate taxa that has evolved based on convergent evolution.}, }
@article {pmid27876975, year = {2016}, author = {Mirzaghavami, M and Sadraei, J and Forouzandeh, M}, title = {Detection of Cryptosporidium spp. in free ranging animals of Tehran, Iran.}, journal = {Journal of parasitic diseases : official organ of the Indian Society for Parasitology}, volume = {40}, number = {4}, pages = {1528-1531}, pmid = {27876975}, issn = {0971-7196}, abstract = {Cryptosporidium is a world widely distributed parasite which comparatively has a high prevalence in developing countries. The zoonotic potential of some Cryptosporidium species has made the cryptosporidiosis a significant concern to physicians and veterinarians. The occurrence and zoonotic potential of Cryptosporidium species in probable reservoir hosts for man infections was determined by examining faeces of symptomatic and asymptomatic animals. The aim of this study is to screen the presence of Cryptosporidium in fecal sample of free ranging animals in Tehran using Ziehl-Neelsen staining method. The findings indicate that Cryptosporidium are present in 9/50 (18 %) stray cat (Felis catus), 12/50 (24 %) hooded crows (Corvus cornix), 23/180 (12.7 %) rat (Rattus norvegicus and R. rattus) and 1/40 (2.5 %) pigeons (Columba livia). This investigation confirms the potential role of rats, cats, crows and pigeons for zoonotic transmission of human cryptosporidiosis and they must be considered as reservoir hosts which can endanger public health.}, }
@article {pmid27875321, year = {2017}, author = {Vondrova, D and Kapsdorfer, D and Argalasova, L and Hirosova, K and Samohyl, M and Sevcikova, L}, title = {The impact of selected environmental, behavioral and psychosocial factors on schoolchildren's somatic and mental health.}, journal = {Reviews on environmental health}, volume = {32}, number = {1-2}, pages = {189-192}, doi = {10.1515/reveh-2016-0034}, pmid = {27875321}, issn = {2191-0308}, support = {R13 ES026036/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Anthropometry ; Child ; *Child Health/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Czech Republic ; Female ; *Health Status ; Humans ; Male ; *Mental Health/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Students ; }, abstract = {Children develop rapidly and many exogenous determinants of health significantly affect their somatic and mental development. There is a subjective perception of cognitive load associated with the educational process. The aim of the study is to assess individual environmental, behavioral and psychosocial factors influencing physical health and to investigate the amount of mental load in children. We investigated 87 schoolchildren (47 girls and 40 boys) aged 10-12 years, who were attending primary school in Bratislava. To assess values of selected factors we used a questionnaire form and personality characteristics were estimated by standardized psycho-diagnostic and IQ tests [range of classic fear, social-situation anxiety and jitters [skala Klasickeho strachu a Socialno-situacnej (in Slovak)] (KSAT), Eyesenck Personality Questionnaire for children (EPQ), Raven's IQ test]. Self-reported perception of mental load was assessed by questionnaire of subjective feelings and states (SFS). Children's body parameters were assessed using anthropometric measurements [height, weight, chest, abdominal and hip girth, Rohrer's index (RI), body mass index (BMI)] and a body fat measurement method (skinfold thickness). The results confirmed a significant relationship between higher parameters of overweight and obesity and irregular breakfast eating (p<0.05), absence of family dining (p<0.05), exposure to tobacco smoke in the family environment (p<0.01) and mother's level of education (p<0.05). Almost 60% of children reported high mental effort and cognitive load associated with the educational process. We note a close relationship between the higher mental load and the score of neuroticism (p<0.01). The physical and mental health of schoolchildren is significantly affected by exogenous factors. Therefore, in terms of protection and promotion of children's health, it is important to evaluate and monitor environmental risk factors and to form their healthy habits.}, }
@article {pmid27872403, year = {2017}, author = {Fleisig, GS and Diffendaffer, AZ and Aune, KT and Ivey, B and Laughlin, WA}, title = {Biomechanical Analysis of Weighted-Ball Exercises for Baseball Pitchers.}, journal = {Sports health}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {210-215}, pmid = {27872403}, issn = {1941-0921}, mesh = {Arm/physiology ; Baseball/injuries/*physiology ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Elbow/physiology ; Electromyography ; Foot/physiology ; Humans ; Knee/physiology ; Lower Extremity/*physiology ; Pelvis/physiology ; Risk Factors ; Shoulder/physiology ; Time and Motion Studies ; Torso/physiology ; Upper Extremity/*physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Weighted-ball throwing programs are commonly used in training baseball pitchers to increase ball velocity. The purpose of this study was to compare kinematics and kinetics among weighted-ball exercises with values from standard pitching (ie, pitching standard 5-oz baseballs from a mound).<br><br>HYPOTHESIS: Ball and arm velocities would be greater with lighter balls and joint kinetics would be greater with heavier balls.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty-five high school and collegiate baseball pitchers experienced with weighted-ball throwing were tested with an automated motion capture system. Each participant performed 3 trials of 10 different exercises: pitching 4-, 5-, 6-, and 7-oz baseballs from a mound; flat-ground crow hop throws with 4-, 5-, 6-, and 7-oz baseballs; and flat-ground hold exercises with 14- and 32-oz balls. Twenty-six biomechanical parameters were computed for each trial. Data among the 10 exercises were compared with repeated measures analysis of variance and post hoc paired t tests against the standard pitching data.<br><br>RESULTS: Ball velocity increased as ball mass decreased. There were no differences in arm and trunk velocities between throwing a standard baseball and an underweight baseball (4 oz), while arm and trunk velocities steadily decreased as ball weight increased from 5 to 32 oz. Compared with values pitching from a mound, velocities of the pelvis, shoulder, and ball were increased for flat-ground throws. In general, as ball mass increased arm torques and forces decreased; the exception was elbow flexion torque, which was significantly greater for the flat-ground holds. There were significant differences in body positions when pitching on the mound, flat-ground throws, and holds.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: While ball velocity was greatest throwing underweight baseballs, results from the study did not support the rest of the hypothesis. Kinematics and kinetics were similar between underweight and standard baseballs, while overweight balls correlated with decreased arm forces, torques, and velocities. Increased ball velocity and joint velocities were produced with crow hop throws, likely because of running forward while throwing.<br><br>CLINICAL RELEVANCE: As pitching slightly underweight and overweight baseballs produces variations in kinematics without increased arm kinetics, these exercises seem reasonable for training pitchers. As flat-ground throwing produces increased shoulder internal rotation velocity and elbow varus torque, these exercises may be beneficial but may also be stressful and risky. Flat-ground holds with heavy balls should not be viewed as enhancing pitching biomechanics, but rather as hybrid exercises between throwing and resistance training.}, }
@article {pmid27871752, year = {2017}, author = {Liordos, V and Kontsiotis, VJ and Georgari, M and Baltzi, K and Baltzi, I}, title = {Public acceptance of management methods under different human-wildlife conflict scenarios.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {579}, number = {}, pages = {685-693}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.11.040}, pmid = {27871752}, issn = {1879-1026}, mesh = {Animals ; Attitude ; Conservation of Natural Resources/*methods ; Crops, Agricultural ; Farmers ; Greece ; Humans ; *Public Opinion ; }, abstract = {Wildlife management seeks to minimise public controversy for successful application of wildlife control methods. Human dimensions research in wildlife seeks a better understanding of public preferences for effective human-wildlife conflict resolution. In face to face interviews, 630 adults in Greece were asked to rate on a 5-point Likert-like scale their acceptance of 3 management methods, i.e., do nothing, non-lethal control, and lethal control, in the context of 5 human-wildlife conflict scenarios: 1) corvids damage crops; 2) starlings damage crops; 3) starlings foul urban structures; 4) coypus damage crops; and 5) coypus transfer disease. Univariate GLMs determined occupation, hunting membership and their interaction as the stronger predictors of public acceptance, generating 4 stakeholder groups: the general public, farmers, hunters, and farmers-hunters. Differences in acceptance and consensus among stakeholder groups were assessed using the Potential for Conflict Index2 (PCI2). All 4 stakeholder groups agreed that doing nothing was unacceptable and non-lethal control acceptable in all 5 scenarios, with generally high consensus within and between groups. The lethal control method was more controversial and became increasingly more acceptable as the severity of scenarios was increased and between non-native and native species. Lethal control was unacceptable for the general public in all scenarios. Farmers accepted lethal methods in the corvids and starlings scenarios, were neutral in the coypus damage crops scenario, whereas they accepted lethal control when coypus transfer disease. Hunters' opinion was neutral in the corvids, starlings and coypus damage crops and starlings foul urban structures scenarios, but they accepted lethal methods in the coypus transfer disease scenario. Farmers-hunters considered lethal control acceptable in all 5 scenarios. Implications from this study could be used for designing a socio-ecological approach which incorporates wildlife management with public interests. The studied species have a wide distribution, therefore present findings might also prove useful elsewhere.}, }
@article {pmid27870033, year = {2016}, author = {Marquis, RJ and Salazar, D and Baer, C and Reinhardt, J and Priest, G and Barnett, K}, title = {Ode to Ehrlich and Raven or how herbivorous insects might drive plant speciation.}, journal = {Ecology}, volume = {97}, number = {11}, pages = {2939-2951}, doi = {10.1002/ecy.1534}, pmid = {27870033}, issn = {0012-9658}, mesh = {Animals ; *Genetic Speciation ; Herbivory/*physiology ; Insecta/*physiology ; *Models, Biological ; Plant Physiological Phenomena ; Plants/*genetics ; Pollination/genetics/physiology ; }, abstract = {Fifty years ago, Ehrlich and Raven proposed that insect herbivores have driven much of plant speciation, particularly at tropical latitudes. There have been no explicit tests of their hypotheses. Indeed there were no proposed mechanisms either at the time or since by which herbivores might generate new plant species. Here we outline two main classes of mechanisms, prezygotic and postzygotic, with a number of scenarios in each by which herbivore-driven changes in host plant secondary chemistry might lead to new plant lineage production. The former apply mainly to a sympatric model of speciation while the latter apply to a parapatric or allopatric model. Our review suggests that the steps of each mechanism are known to occur individually in many different systems, but no scenario has been thoroughly investigated in any one system. Nevertheless, studies of Dalechampia and its herbivores and pollinators, and patterns of defense tradeoffs in trees on different soil types in the Peruvian Amazon provide evidence consistent with the original hypotheses of Ehrlich and Raven. For herbivores to drive sympatric speciation, our findings suggest that interactions with both their herbivores and their pollinators should be considered. In contrast, herbivores may drive speciation allopatrically without any influence by pollinators. Finally, there is evidence that these mechanisms are more likely to occur at low latitudes and thus more likely to produce new species in the tropics. The mechanisms we outline provide a predictive framework for further study of the general role that herbivores play in diversification of their host plants.}, }
@article {pmid27867222, year = {2016}, author = {St Clair, JJ and Klump, BC and van der Wal, JE and Sugasawa, S and Rutz, C}, title = {Strong between-site variation in New Caledonian crows' use of hook-tool-making materials.}, journal = {Biological journal of the Linnean Society. Linnean Society of London}, volume = {118}, number = {2}, pages = {226-232}, pmid = {27867222}, issn = {0024-4066}, abstract = {Functional tool use requires the selection of appropriate raw materials. New Caledonian crows Corvus moneduloides are known for their extraordinary tool-making behaviour, including the crafting of hooked stick tools from branched vegetation. We describe a surprisingly strong between-site difference in the plant materials used by wild crows to manufacture these tools: crows at one study site use branches of the non-native shrub Desmanthus virgatus, whereas only approximately 7 km away, birds apparently ignore this material in favour of the terminal twigs of an as-yet-unidentified tree species. Although it is likely that differences in local plant communities drive this striking pattern, it remains to be determined how and why crows develop such strong site-specific preferences for certain raw materials.}, }
@article {pmid27864599, year = {2017}, author = {Coran, AG}, title = {In Memory of Jay L. Grosfeld, M.D.}, journal = {Pediatric surgery international}, volume = {33}, number = {1}, pages = {1-2}, doi = {10.1007/s00383-016-4023-x}, pmid = {27864599}, issn = {1437-9813}, mesh = {Animals ; General Surgery/*history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Male ; Pediatrics/*history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid27864088, year = {2017}, author = {Moll, FW and Nieder, A}, title = {Modality-invariant audio-visual association coding in crow endbrain neurons.}, journal = {Neurobiology of learning and memory}, volume = {137}, number = {}, pages = {65-76}, doi = {10.1016/j.nlm.2016.11.011}, pmid = {27864088}, issn = {1095-9564}, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation ; Animals ; Auditory Perception/*physiology ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Crows ; Learning/physiology ; Male ; Neurons/*physiology ; Photic Stimulation ; Prefrontal Cortex/physiology ; Telencephalon/*physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Single neuron activity in the corvid nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL), the supposed avian functional analog of the prefrontal cortex, represents associations of auditory with visual stimuli. This is of high adaptive value for songbirds that need to rely on audio-visual associations to communicate, find a mate or escape predators. However, it remains unclear whether NCL neurons can represent cross-modal associations in a modality invariant, abstract fashion. To dissociate between modality-dependent and modality-invariant NCL activity, we trained two crows to match auditory sample cues with visual test stimuli, and vice versa, across a temporal memory delay. During sample presentation, NCL activity selectively encoded associations in a modality invariant fashion. During the delay, we observed subject specific, population-level coding biases in NCL activity. Despite of these biases, task relevant information could be decoded equally well from either subject's neuronal delay activity. Decoding success was facilitated by many mixed selectivity neurons, which mediated high dimensional representations of task variables on the NCL population level. These results parallel findings from the mammalian PFC, suggesting common mechanisms responsible for the adaptability of multimodal association areas across taxa.}, }
@article {pmid27859134, year = {2016}, author = {Leverkus, AB and Rey Benayas, JM and Castro, J}, title = {Shifting demographic conflicts across recruitment cohorts in a dynamic post-disturbance landscape.}, journal = {Ecology}, volume = {97}, number = {10}, pages = {2628-2639}, doi = {10.1002/ecy.1527}, pmid = {27859134}, issn = {0012-9658}, mesh = {Animals ; Demography ; *Ecosystem ; *Quercus ; *Seed Dispersal ; Seedlings ; Seeds ; Spain ; }, abstract = {Seed dispersal effectiveness, which measures the number of adult plant individuals produced by seed dispersal, is the product of the number of seeds dispersed and the probability a seed produces an adult. Directed dispersal to certain habitat types may enhance some stages of recruitment but disfavor others, generating demographic conflicts in plant ontogeny. We asked whether temporal changes in habitat features may affect the distribution of seedlings recruited from dispersed acorns, and whether this could induce shifts in the life-stage conflicts experienced by successive cohorts of naturally recruited plants. As early successional habitats are characterized by rapid change, we used a burnt pine stand in southern Spain to monitor the recruitment and performance of a major tree species (Quercus ilex) across 7 yr in four types of post-fire habitats. These differed in structure and included patches of unburnt forest and three management alternatives of burnt trees: logging, partial cutting, and nonintervention. Young oaks that resprouted after the fire were mainly located near acorn sources, while new seedlings initially emerged mostly in habitats with standing snags due to habitat selection by European jays, Garrulus glandarius, for dispersal. The dead pines gradually collapsed and attracted less dispersal, so subsequent seedling cohorts mainly recruited within patches of unburnt pines. These live pines enhanced the survival of the oaks located beneath their canopy but greatly reduced their growth as compared to the other post-fire habitats, thus representing a demographic conflict that was absent elsewhere. As a consequence of the directional shift in the habitat where seedlings recruited, successive seedling cohorts experienced a gradual improvement in their likelihood of survival but a reduction in growth. The progressive intensification of this life-stage conflict hinged on the reduction of vertical structures in the habitat with standing burnt pines. Recruitment success thus involved temporal variation in the habitat where recruitment occurred, likely resulting from changes in the direction of seed dispersal, and spatial variation in habitat suitability for seedling establishment and growth. Temporal changes in habitat structure can indirectly change the environment in which recruitment occurs, and consequently seed dispersal effectiveness, by shifting the direction of seed dispersal.}, }
@article {pmid27853622, year = {2016}, author = {Rutz, C and Sugasawa, S and van der Wal, JE and Klump, BC and St Clair, JJ}, title = {Tool bending in New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {3}, number = {8}, pages = {160439}, pmid = {27853622}, issn = {2054-5703}, support = {BB/G023913/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {'Betty' the New Caledonian crow astonished the world when she 'spontaneously' bent straight pieces of garden wire into hooked foraging tools. Recent field experiments have revealed that tool bending is part of the species' natural behavioural repertoire, providing important context for interpreting Betty's iconic wire-bending feat. More generally, this discovery provides a compelling illustration of how natural history observations can inform laboratory-based research into the cognitive capacities of non-human animals.}, }
@article {pmid27849243, year = {2016}, author = {Lamônica, DA and Ribeiro, CD and Ferraz, PM and Tabaquim, ML}, title = {Moyamoya disease: impact on the performance of oral and written language.}, journal = {CoDAS}, volume = {28}, number = {5}, pages = {661-665}, doi = {10.1590/2317-1782/20162016010}, pmid = {27849243}, issn = {2317-1782}, mesh = {Child ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Language Tests ; Learning ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Moyamoya Disease/*complications/diagnosis ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {Moyamoya disease is an unusual form of occlusive, cerebrovascular disorder that affects the arteries of the central nervous system, causing acquired language alterations and learning difficulties. The study aim was to describe the oral/written language and cognitive skills in a seven-year-and-seven-month-old girl diagnosed with Moyamoya disease. The assessment consisted of interviews with her parents and application of the following instruments: Observation of Communicative Behavior, Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test, Academic Performance Test, Profile of Phonological Awareness, Raven's Progressive Matrices Test, Special Scale, Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Bender Visual Motor Gestalt Test, and Wisconsin Card Sorting Test. Two episodes of stroke in the left and right temporal-parietal and left frontal areas occurred until the age of six years and five months. Revascularization surgery and medication treatment were conducted. The audiologic and ophthalmologic assessments indicated normality. At the time of the study, the girl was attending the second grade of elementary school. She presented changes in oral and written language (syllabic-alphabetic), non-naming of all graphemes, low arithmetic and writing means, reading skill below first grade level and psycholinguistic delay, and pre-school level phonological processing skills. The psychological evaluation indicated satisfactory intellectual level; however, it also showed cognitive performance impairment in verbal and execution tasks and limitations on graphic-perceptual-motor skills and sequential logic organization. The stroke episodes influenced the performance of learning processes, affecting the analysis, integration, and interpretation of relevant visual and auditory information.}, }
@article {pmid27840464, year = {2016}, author = {Deventer, SA and Uhl, F and Bugnyar, T and Miller, R and Fitch, WT and Schiestl, M and Ringler, M and Schwab, C}, title = {Behavioural Type Affects Space Use in a Wild Population of Crows (Corvus corone).}, journal = {Ethology : formerly Zeitschrift fur Tierpsychologie}, volume = {122}, number = {11}, pages = {881-891}, pmid = {27840464}, issn = {0179-1613}, abstract = {While personality-dependent dispersal is well studied, local space use has received surprisingly little attention in this context, despite the multiple consequences on survival and fitness. Regarding the coping style of individuals, recent studies on personality-dependent space use within a habitat indicate that 'proactive' individuals are wider ranging than 'reactive' ones. However, such studies are still scarce and cover limited taxonomic diversity, and thus, more research is needed to explore whether this pattern generalises across species. We examined the link between coping style and space use in a population of crows (Corvus corone) freely inhabiting the urban zoo of Vienna, Austria. We used a binary docility rating (struggle during handling vs. no struggle) and a tonic immobility test to quantify individual coping style. Individual space use was quantified as the number of different sites at which each crow was observed, and we controlled for different number of sightings per individual by creating a space use index. Only the binary docility rating showed repeatability over time, and significantly predicted space use. In contrast to previous studies, we found that reactive crows (no struggle during handling) showed wider ranging space use within the study site than proactive individuals (who struggled during handling). The discrepancy from previous results suggests that the relationship between behavioural type and space use may vary between species, potentially reflecting differences in socioecology.}, }
@article {pmid27838379, year = {2017}, author = {Greggor, AL and Spencer, KA and Clayton, NS and Thornton, A}, title = {Wild jackdaws' reproductive success and their offspring's stress hormones are connected to provisioning rate and brood size, not to parental neophobia.}, journal = {General and comparative endocrinology}, volume = {243}, number = {}, pages = {70-77}, pmid = {27838379}, issn = {1095-6840}, support = {BB/H021817/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/L002264/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Breeding ; Corticosterone/*metabolism ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Nesting Behavior/*physiology ; Phobic Disorders/*physiopathology ; Reproduction/*physiology ; Siblings ; *Social Behavior ; *Stress, Physiological ; }, abstract = {Many species show individual variation in neophobia and stress hormones, but the causes and consequences of this variation in the wild are unclear. Variation in neophobia levels could affect the number of offspring animals produce, and more subtly influence the rearing environment and offspring development. Nutritional deficits during development can elevate levels of stress hormones that trigger long-term effects on learning, memory, and survival. Therefore measuring offspring stress hormone levels, such as corticosterone (CORT), helps determine if parental neophobia influences the condition and developmental trajectory of young. As a highly neophobic species, jackdaws (Corvus monedula) are excellent for exploring the potential effects of parental neophobia on developing offspring. We investigated if neophobic responses, alongside known drivers of fitness, influence nest success and offspring hormone responses in wild breeding jackdaws. Despite its consistency across the breeding season, and suggestions in the literature that it should have importance for reproductive fitness, parental neophobia did not predict nest success, provisioning rates or offspring hormone levels. Instead, sibling competition and poor parental care contributed to natural variation in stress responses. Parents with lower provisioning rates fledged fewer chicks, chicks from larger broods had elevated baseline CORT levels, and chicks with later hatching dates showed higher stress-induced CORT levels. Since CORT levels may influence the expression of adult neophobia, variation in juvenile stress responses could explain the development and maintenance of neophobic variation within the adult population.}, }
@article {pmid27829758, year = {2016}, author = {Saisadan, D and Manimaran, P and Meenapriya, PK}, title = {In vitro comparative evaluation of mechanical properties of temporary restorative materials used in fixed partial denture.}, journal = {Journal of pharmacy &amp; bioallied sciences}, volume = {8}, number = {Suppl 1}, pages = {S105-S109}, pmid = {27829758}, issn = {0976-4879}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Materials used to fabricate provisional restorations can be classified as acrylics or resin composites. Provisional crows can be either prefabricated or custom made.<br><br>ACRYLICS: These materials have been used to fabricate provisional restorations since the 1930s and usually available as powder and liquid. They are the most commonly used materials today for both single-unit and multiple-unit restorations. In general, their popularity is due to their low cost, acceptable esthetics, and versatility.<br><br>COMPOSITES: Composite provisional materials use bis-acryl resin, a hydrophobic material that is similar to bis-GMA. Composites are available as auto-polymerized, dualpolymerized and visible light polymerized.<br><br>PREFORMED CROWNS: Preformed provisional crowns or matrices usually consist of tooth-shaped shells of plastic, cellulose acetate or metal. They are commercially available in various tooth sizes and are usually selected for a particular tooth anatomy. They are commonly relined with acrylic resin to provide a more custom fit before cementation, but the plastic and metal crown shells can also be cemented directly onto prepared teeth.<br><br>AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to choose a material to serve as a better interim prosthesis and to compare three different properties - flexural strength, compressive strength, and color stability.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: The samples were made with three different provisional materials (Revotek LC, Protemp 4, TemSpan).<br><br>RESULT: It was inferred from the study that no one material was superior in all three tested parameters.}, }
@article {pmid27829553, year = {2017}, author = {Zhan, F and Liao, X and Gao, F and Qiu, W and Wang, Q}, title = {Electroactive crown ester-Cu[2+] complex with in-situ modification at molecular beacon probe serving as a facile electrochemical DNA biosensor for the detection of CaMV 35s.}, journal = {Biosensors &amp; bioelectronics}, volume = {92}, number = {}, pages = {589-595}, doi = {10.1016/j.bios.2016.10.055}, pmid = {27829553}, issn = {1873-4235}, mesh = {Biosensing Techniques/*methods ; Caulimovirus/*isolation &amp; purification ; Coordination Complexes/*chemistry ; Copper/*chemistry ; Crown Ethers/*chemistry ; DNA, Viral/*analysis ; Electrochemical Techniques/methods ; Electrodes ; Gold/chemistry ; Limit of Detection ; Nucleic Acid Hybridization/methods ; Plant Diseases/*virology ; Signal-To-Noise Ratio ; Glycine max/virology ; }, abstract = {A novel electrochemical DNA biosensor has been facilely constructed by in-situ assembly of electroactive 4'-aminobenzo-18-crown-6-copper(II) complex (AbC-Cu[2+]) on the free terminal of the hairpin-structured molecule beacon. The 3'-SH modified molecule beacon probe was first immobilized on the gold electrode (AuE) surface through self-assembly chemistry of Au-S bond. Then the crow ester of AbC was covalently coupled with 5'-COOH on the molecule beacon, and served as a platform to attach the Cu[2+] by coordination with ether bond (-O-) of the crown cycle. Thus, an electroactive molecule beacon-based biosensing interface was constructed. In comparison with conventional methods for preparation of electroactive molecule beacon, the approach presented in this work is much simpler, reagent- and labor-saving. Selectivity study shows that the in-situ fabricated electroactive molecule beacon remains excellent recognition ability of pristine molecule beacon probe to well differentiate various DNA fragments. The target DNA can be quantatively determined over the range from 0.10pM to 0.50nM. The detection limit of 0.060pM was estimated based on signal-to-noise ratio of 3. When the biosensor was applied for the detection cauliflower mosaic virus 35s (CaMV 35s) in soybean extraction samples, satisfactory results are achieved. This work opens a new strategy for facilely fabricating electrochemical sensing interface, which also shows great potential in aptasensor and immurosensor fabrication.}, }
@article {pmid27826273, year = {2016}, author = {Clary, D and Kelly, DM}, title = {Clark's Nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana) Flexibly Adapt Caching Behavior to a Cooperative Context.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {1643}, pmid = {27826273}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Corvids recognize when their caches are at risk of being stolen by others and have developed strategies to protect these caches from pilferage. For instance, Clark's nutcrackers will suppress the number of caches they make if being observed by a potential thief. However, cache protection has most often been studied using competitive contexts, so it is unclear whether corvids can adjust their caching in beneficial ways to accommodate non-competitive situations. Therefore, we examined whether Clark's nutcrackers, a non-social corvid, would flexibly adapt their caching behaviors to a cooperative context. To do so, birds were given a caching task during which caches made by one individual were reciprocally exchanged for the caches of a partner bird over repeated trials. In this scenario, if caching behaviors can be flexibly deployed, then the birds should recognize the cooperative nature of the task and maintain or increase caching levels over time. However, if cache protection strategies are applied independent of social context and simply in response to cache theft, then cache suppression should occur. In the current experiment, we found that the birds maintained caching throughout the experiment. We report that males increased caching in response to a manipulation in which caches were artificially added, suggesting the birds could adapt to the cooperative nature of the task. Additionally, we show that caching decisions were not solely due to motivational factors, instead showing an additional influence attributed to the behavior of the partner bird.}, }
@article {pmid27826268, year = {2016}, author = {Corgnet, B and Espín, AM and Hernán-González, R}, title = {Creativity and Cognitive Skills among Millennials: Thinking Too Much and Creating Too Little.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {1626}, pmid = {27826268}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Organizations crucially need the creative talent of millennials but are reluctant to hire them because of their supposed lack of diligence. Recent studies have shown that hiring diligent millennials requires selecting those who score high on the Cognitive Reflection Test (CRT) and thus rely on effortful thinking rather than intuition. A central question is to assess whether the push for recruiting diligent millennials using criteria such as cognitive reflection can ultimately hamper the recruitment of creative workers. To answer this question, we study the relationship between millennials' creativity and their performance on fluid intelligence (Raven) and cognitive reflection (CRT) tests. The good news for recruiters is that we report, in line with previous research, evidence of a positive relationship of fluid intelligence, and to a lesser extent cognitive reflection, with convergent creative thinking. In addition, we observe a positive effect of fluid intelligence on originality and elaboration measures of divergent creative thinking. The bad news for recruiters is the inverted U-shape relationship between cognitive reflection and fluency and flexibility measures of divergent creative thinking. This suggests that thinking too much may hinder important dimensions of creative thinking. Diligent and creative workers may thus be a rare find.}, }
@article {pmid27824400, year = {2016}, author = {Holcomb, GW and Ure, B}, title = {Jay L. Grosfeld, MD (1935-2016).}, journal = {European journal of pediatric surgery : official journal of Austrian Association of Pediatric Surgery ... [et al] = Zeitschrift fur Kinderchirurgie}, volume = {26}, number = {6}, pages = {542}, doi = {10.1055/s-0036-1594233}, pmid = {27824400}, issn = {1439-359X}, mesh = {General Surgery/*history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Pediatrics/*history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid27815492, year = {2017}, author = {Wang, Z and Jay, CM and Evans, C and Kumar, P and Phalon, C and Rao, DD and Senzer, N and Nemunaitis, J}, title = {Preclinical Biodistribution and Safety Evaluation of a pbi-shRNA STMN1 Lipoplex after Subcutaneous Delivery.}, journal = {Toxicological sciences : an official journal of the Society of Toxicology}, volume = {155}, number = {2}, pages = {400-408}, doi = {10.1093/toxsci/kfw223}, pmid = {27815492}, issn = {1096-0929}, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Humans ; Injections, Subcutaneous ; Interleukin-6/blood ; Male ; Neoplasms/metabolism/therapy ; *RNA Interference ; RNA, Small Interfering/*administration &amp; dosage/genetics/pharmacokinetics ; Rats ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; Stathmin/administration &amp; dosage/*antagonists &amp; inhibitors/*genetics/metabolism ; Tissue Distribution ; }, abstract = {Stathmin-1 (STMN1) is a microtubule-destabilizing protein which is overexpressed in cancer. Its overexpression is associated with poor prognosis and also serves as a predictive marker to taxane therapy. We have developed a proprietary bi-functional shRNA (bi-shRNA) platform to execute RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated gene silencing and a liposome-carrier complex to systemically deliver the pbi-shRNA plasmids. In vitro and in vivo testing demonstrated efficacy and specificity of pbi-shRNA plasmid in targeting STMN1 (Phadke, A. P., Jay, C. M., Wang, Z., Chen, S., Liu, S., Haddock, C., Kumar, P., Pappen, B. O., Rao, D. D., Templeton, N. S., et al. (2011). In vivo safety and antitumor efficacy of bifunctional small hairpin RNAs specific for the human Stathmin 1 oncoprotein. DNA Cell Biol. 30, 715-726.). Biodistribution and toxicology studies in bio-relevant Sprague Dawley rats with pbi-shRNA STMN1 lipoplex revealed that the plasmid DNA was delivered to a broad distribution of organs after a single subcutaneous injection. Specifically, plasmid was detected within the first week using QPCR (threshold 50 copies plasmid/1 µg genomic DNA) at the injection site, lung, spleen, blood, skin, ovary (limited), lymph nodes, and liver. It was not detected in the heart, testis or bone marrow. No plasmid was detected from any organ 30 days after injection. Treatment was well tolerated. Minimal inflammation/erythema was observed at the injection site. Circulating cytokine response was also examined by ELISA. The IL-6 levels were induced within 6 h then declined to the vehicle control level 72 h after the injection. TNFα induction was transiently observed 4 days after the DNA lipoplex treatment. In summary, the pbi-shRNA STMN1 lipoplex was well tolerated and displayed broad distribution after a single subcutaneous injection. The pre-clinical data has been filed to FDA and the pbi-shRNA STMN1 lipoplex is being investigated in a phase I clinical study.}, }
@article {pmid27814545, year = {2016}, author = {Orłowski, G and Siebielec, G and Kasprzykowski, Z and Dobicki, W and Pokorny, P and Wuczyński, A and Polechoński, R and Mazgajski, TD}, title = {Effect of spatial resolution of soil data on predictions of eggshell trace element levels in the Rook Corvus frugilegus.}, journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)}, volume = {219}, number = {}, pages = {288-295}, doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2016.10.048}, pmid = {27814545}, issn = {1873-6424}, mesh = {*Agriculture ; Animals ; Cadmium/analysis ; Copper/analysis ; Egg Shell/*chemistry ; Environment ; Environmental Monitoring ; Metals, Heavy/*analysis ; Nickel/analysis ; *Passeriformes ; Poland ; Soil/*chemistry ; Soil Pollutants/*analysis ; Trace Elements/*analysis ; Zinc/analysis ; }, abstract = {Although a considerable research effort has gone into studying the dietary pathways of metals to the bodies of laying female birds and their eggs in recent years, no detailed investigations have yet been carried out relating the properties of the biogeochemical environment at large spatial scales to eggshell trace element levels in typical soil-invertebrate feeding birds under natural conditions. We used data from a large-scale nationwide monitoring survey of soil quality in Poland (3724 sampling points from the 43 792 available) to predict levels of five trace elements (copper [Cu], cadmium [Cd], nickel [Ni], zinc [Zn] and lead [Pb]) in Rook Corvus frugilegus eggshells from 42 breeding colonies. Our major aim was to test whether differences exist in the explanatory power of soil data (acidity, content of elements and organic matter, and particle size) used as a correlate of concentrations of eggshell trace elements among four different distances (5, 10, 15 and 20 km) around rookeries. Over all four distances around the rookeries only the concentrations of Cu and Cd in eggshells were positively correlated with those in soil, while eggshell Pb was correlated with the soil Pb level at the two longest distances (15 and 20 km) around the rookeries. The physical properties of soil (primarily the increase in pH) adversely affected eggshell Cd and Pb concentrations. The patterns and factors governing metal bioaccumulation in soil invertebrates and eggshells appear to be coincident, which strongly suggests a general similarity in the biochemical pathways of elements at different levels of the food web. The increasing acidification of arable soil as a result of excessive fertilisation and over-nitrification can enhance the bioavailability of toxic elements to laying females and their eggs.}, }
@article {pmid27811974, year = {2016}, author = {Clary, D and Kelly, DM}, title = {Graded Mirror Self-Recognition by Clark's Nutcrackers.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {36459}, pmid = {27811974}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Recognition, Psychology/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The traditional 'mark test' has shown some large-brained species are capable of mirror self-recognition. During this test a mark is inconspicuously placed on an animal's body where it can only be seen with the aid of a mirror. If the animal increases the number of actions directed to the mark region when presented with a mirror, the animal is presumed to have recognized the mirror image as its reflection. However, the pass/fail nature of the mark test presupposes self-recognition exists in entirety or not at all. We developed a novel mirror-recognition task, to supplement the mark test, which revealed gradation in the self-recognition of Clark's nutcrackers, a large-brained corvid. To do so, nutcrackers cached food alone, observed by another nutcracker, or with a regular or blurry mirror. The nutcrackers suppressed caching with a regular mirror, a behavioural response to prevent cache theft by conspecifics, but did not suppress caching with a blurry mirror. Likewise, during the mark test, most nutcrackers made more self-directed actions to the mark with a blurry mirror than a regular mirror. Both results suggest self-recognition was more readily achieved with the blurry mirror and that self-recognition may be more broadly present among animals than currently thought.}, }
@article {pmid27811148, year = {2016}, author = {Tüngler, V and König, N and Günther, C and Engel, K and Fiehn, C and Smitka, M and von der Hagen, M and Berner, R and Lee-Kirsch, MA}, title = {Response to: 'JAK inhibition in STING-associated interferonopathy' by Crow et al.}, journal = {Annals of the rheumatic diseases}, volume = {75}, number = {12}, pages = {e76}, doi = {10.1136/annrheumdis-2016-210565}, pmid = {27811148}, issn = {1468-2060}, mesh = {Chilblains/*metabolism ; Humans ; Interferons ; Janus Kinases/*metabolism ; Lupus Erythematosus, Cutaneous/*metabolism ; Membrane Proteins/*metabolism ; *Signal Transduction ; }, }
@article {pmid27808198, year = {2016}, author = {}, title = {Animal behaviour: Magpies behave cooperatively.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {539}, number = {7627}, pages = {9}, doi = {10.1038/539009e}, pmid = {27808198}, issn = {1476-4687}, }
@article {pmid27503511, year = {2016}, author = {Levine, RS and Mead, DG and Hamer, GL and Brosi, BJ and Hedeen, DL and Hedeen, MW and McMillan, JR and Bisanzio, D and Kitron, UD}, title = {Supersuppression: Reservoir Competency and Timing of Mosquito Host Shifts Combine to Reduce Spillover of West Nile Virus.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {95}, number = {5}, pages = {1174-1184}, pmid = {27503511}, issn = {1476-1645}, support = {T32 AI055404/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Culex/virology ; Culicidae/*virology ; Female ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; Insect Vectors/virology ; Passeriformes/virology ; Seasons ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; United States/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/veterinary ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {In the eastern United States, human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) result from spillover from urban epizootic transmission between passerine birds and Culex mosquitoes. In Atlanta, GA, substantial WNV presence in hosts and vectors has not resulted in the human disease burden observed in cities with similar infection pressure. Our study goal was to investigate extrinsic ecological conditions that potentially contribute to these reduced transmission rates. We conducted WNV surveillance among hosts and vectors in urban Atlanta and recorded an overall avian seroprevalence of nearly 30%, which was significantly higher among northern cardinals, blue jays, and members of the mimid family, and notably low among American robins. Examination of temporal Culex feeding patterns showed a marked feeding shift from American robins in the early season to northern cardinals in the late season. We therefore rule out American robins as superspreaders in the Atlanta area and suggest instead that northern cardinals and mimids act as WNV "supersuppressor" species, which slow WNV transmission by drawing many infectious bites during the critical virus amplification period, yet failing to amplify transmission due to low host competencies. Of particular interest, urban forest patches provide spillover protection by increasing the WNV amplification fraction on supersuppressor species.}, }
@article {pmid26602225, year = {2016}, author = {Kazemeini, T and Fadardi, JS}, title = {Executive Function: Comparing Bilingual and Monolingual Iranian University Students.}, journal = {Journal of psycholinguistic research}, volume = {45}, number = {6}, pages = {1315-1326}, pmid = {26602225}, issn = {1573-6555}, mesh = {Adult ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Humans ; *Inhibition, Psychological ; Iran ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; *Multilingualism ; Universities ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The study aimed to examine whether Kurdish-Persian early Bilingual university students (EBL) and Persian Monolingual university students (ML) differ on tasks of executive function (EF). Thirty male EBL and 30 male ML students from Ferdowsi University of Mashhad completed a Persian Stroop Color-Word task (SCWT), Backward Digit Span Test (BDST), Raven Standard Progressive Matrices, and a demographic questionnaire. The results of an analysis of variance showed EBL students responded faster on the SCWT compared with ML students, suggesting an inhibition advantage for EBL students. Moreover, mean scores of BDST showed better performance of EBL students in working memory than ML students. These results provided evidence of advantaged EF among EBL and were consistent with the possibility that individuals who began speaking a second language (L2) earlier in childhood have greater advantages, due either to effects of acquiring an L2 earlier or to a longer duration of bilingual experience.}, }
@article {pmid27801957, year = {2016}, author = {Dawson, DA and Dos Remedios, N and Horsburgh, GJ}, title = {A new marker based on the avian spindlin gene that is able to sex most birds, including species problematic to sex with CHD markers.}, journal = {Zoo biology}, volume = {35}, number = {6}, pages = {533-545}, doi = {10.1002/zoo.21326}, pmid = {27801957}, issn = {1098-2361}, mesh = {Animal Husbandry/*methods ; Animals ; Animals, Zoo/*genetics ; Birds/*genetics ; Cell Cycle Proteins/*genetics ; Female ; Male ; Microsatellite Repeats/genetics ; Microtubule-Associated Proteins/*genetics ; Phosphoproteins/*genetics ; Sequence Homology, Nucleic Acid ; Sex Chromosomes/genetics ; Sex Determination Analysis/*methods ; }, abstract = {We have developed a new marker (Z43B) that can be successfully used to identify the sex of most birds (69%), including species difficult or impossible to sex with other markers. We utilized the zebra finch Taeniopygia guttata EST microsatellite sequence (CK309496) which displays sequence homology to the 5' untranslated region (UTR) of the avian spindlin gene. This gene is known to be present on the Z and W chromosomes. To maximize cross-species utility, the primer set was designed from a consensus sequence created from homologs of CK309496 that were isolated from multiple distantly related species. Both the forward and reverse primer sequences were 100% identical to 14 avian species, including the Z chromosome of eight species and the chicken Gallus gallus W chromosome, as well as the saltwater crocodile Crocodylus porosus. The Z43B primer set was assessed by genotyping individuals of known sex belonging to 61 non-ratite species and a single ratite. The Z and W amplicons differed in size making it possible to distinguish between males (ZZ) and females (ZW) for the majority (69%) of non-ratite species tested, comprising 10 orders of birds. We predict that this marker will be useful for obtaining sex-typing data for ca 6,869 species of birds (69% of non-ratites but not galliforms). A wide range of species could be sex-typed including passerines, shorebirds, eagles, falcons, bee-eaters, cranes, shags, parrots, penguins, ducks, and a ratite species, the brown kiwi, Apteryx australis. Those species sexed include species impossible or problematic to sex-type with other markers (magpie, albatross, petrel, eagle, falcon, crane, and penguin species). Zoo Biol. 35:533-545, 2016. © 2016 The Authors. Zoo Biology published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.}, }
@article {pmid27796660, year = {2017}, author = {Bílá, K and Beránková, J and Veselý, P and Bugnyar, T and Schwab, C}, title = {Responses of urban crows to con- and hetero-specific alarm calls in predator and non-predator zoo enclosures.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {43-51}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-016-1047-5}, pmid = {27796660}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Zoo ; Birds ; Cities ; *Crows ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Urban animals and birds in particular are able to cope with diverse novel threats in a city environment such as avoiding novel, unfamiliar predators. Predator avoidance often includes alarm signals that can be used also by hetero-specifics, which is mainly the case in mixed-species flocks. It can also occur when species do not form flocks but co-occur together. In this study we tested whether urban crows use alarm calls of conspecifics and hetero-specifics (jackdaws, Corvus monedula) differently in a predator and a non-predator context with partly novel and unfamiliar zoo animal species. Birds were tested at the Tiergarten Schönbrunn in the city of Vienna by playing back con- and hetero-specific alarm calls and control stimuli (great tit song and no stimuli) at predator (wolf, polar bear) and non-predator (eland antelope and cranes, peccaries) enclosures. We recorded responses of crows as the percentage of birds flying away after hearing the playback (out of those present before the playback) and as the number of vocalizations given by the present birds. A significantly higher percentage of crows flew away after hearing either con- or hetero-specific alarm calls, but it did not significantly differ between the predator and the non-predator context. Crows treated jackdaw calls just as crow calls, indicating that they make proper use of hetero-specific alarm calls. Responding similarly in both contexts may suggest that the crows were uncertain about the threat a particular zoo animal represents and were generally cautious. In the predator context, however, a high percentage of crows also flew away upon hearing the great tit control song which suggests that they may still evaluate those species which occasionally killed crows as more dangerous and respond to any conspicuous sound.}, }
@article {pmid27796282, year = {2016}, author = {Vijay, N and Bossu, CM and Poelstra, JW and Weissensteiner, MH and Suh, A and Kryukov, AP and Wolf, JB}, title = {Evolution of heterogeneous genome differentiation across multiple contact zones in a crow species complex.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {13195}, pmid = {27796282}, issn = {2041-1723}, support = {//European Research Council/International ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*genetics ; Female ; *Gene Flow ; Genetic Speciation ; *Genome ; Geography ; Hybridization, Genetic ; Male ; Nucleic Acid Hybridization ; Phenotype ; Pigmentation ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; Population Dynamics ; *Reproductive Isolation ; }, abstract = {Uncovering the genetic basis of species diversification is a central goal in evolutionary biology. Yet, the link between the accumulation of genomic changes during population divergence and the evolutionary forces promoting reproductive isolation is poorly understood. Here, we analysed 124 genomes of crow populations with various degrees of genome-wide differentiation, with parallelism of a sexually selected plumage phenotype, and ongoing hybridization. Overall, heterogeneity in genetic differentiation along the genome was best explained by linked selection exposed on a shared genome architecture. Superimposed on this common background, we identified genomic regions with signatures of selection specific to independent phenotypic contact zones. Candidate pigmentation genes with evidence for divergent selection were only partly shared, suggesting context-dependent selection on a multigenic trait architecture and parallelism by pathway rather than by repeated single-gene effects. This study provides insight into how various forms of selection shape genome-wide patterns of genomic differentiation as populations diverge.}, }
@article {pmid27736787, year = {2016}, author = {Weis, AM and Storey, DB and Taff, CC and Townsend, AK and Huang, BC and Kong, NT and Clothier, KA and Spinner, A and Byrne, BA and Weimer, BC}, title = {Genomic Comparison of Campylobacter spp. and Their Potential for Zoonotic Transmission between Birds, Primates, and Livestock.}, journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology}, volume = {82}, number = {24}, pages = {7165-7175}, pmid = {27736787}, issn = {1098-5336}, support = {U01 FD003572/FD/FDA HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/microbiology ; Bird Diseases/*microbiology/transmission ; Birds/microbiology ; Campylobacter/classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification/physiology ; Campylobacter Infections/*microbiology/transmission/*veterinary ; Cattle ; Genome, Bacterial ; Genomics ; Genotype ; Humans ; Livestock/microbiology ; Phylogeny ; Primate Diseases/*microbiology/transmission ; Primates/microbiology ; Sheep ; Zoonoses/*microbiology/transmission ; }, abstract = {Campylobacter is the leading cause of human gastroenteritis worldwide. Wild birds, including American crows, are abundant in urban, suburban, and agricultural settings and are likely zoonotic vectors of Campylobacter Their proximity to humans and livestock increases the potential spreading of Campylobacter via crows between the environment, livestock, and humans. However, no studies have definitively demonstrated that crows are a vector for pathogenic Campylobacter We used genomics to evaluate the zoonotic and pathogenic potential of Campylobacter from crows to other animals with 184 isolates obtained from crows, chickens, cows, sheep, goats, humans, and nonhuman primates. Whole-genome analysis uncovered two distinct clades of Campylobacter jejuni genotypes; the first contained genotypes found only in crows, while a second genotype contained "generalist" genomes that were isolated from multiple host species, including isolates implicated in human disease, primate gastroenteritis, and livestock abortion. Two major β-lactamase genes were observed frequently in these genomes (oxa-184, 55%, and oxa-61, 29%), where oxa-184 was associated only with crows and oxa-61 was associated with generalists. Mutations in gyrA, indicative of fluoroquinolone resistance, were observed in 14% of the isolates. Tetracycline resistance (tetO) was present in 22% of the isolates, yet it occurred in 91% of the abortion isolates. Virulence genes were distributed throughout the genomes; however, cdtC alleles recapitulated the crow-only and generalist clades. A specific cdtC allele was associated with abortion in livestock and was concomitant with tetO These findings indicate that crows harboring a generalist C. jejuni genotype may act as a vector for the zoonotic transmission of Campylobacter IMPORTANCE: This study examined the link between public health and the genomic variation of Campylobacter in relation to disease in humans, primates, and livestock. Use of large-scale whole-genome sequencing enabled population-level assessment to find new genes that are linked to livestock disease. With 184 Campylobacter genomes, we assessed virulence traits, antibiotic resistance susceptibility, and the potential for zoonotic transfer to observe that there is a "generalist" genotype that may move between host species.}, }
@article {pmid27534728, year = {2016}, author = {Suzuki, K and Edelson, A and Iversen, LL and Hausmann, L and Schulz, JB and Turner, AJ}, title = {A Learned Society's Perspective on Publishing.}, journal = {Journal of neurochemistry}, volume = {139 Suppl 2}, number = {}, pages = {17-23}, doi = {10.1111/jnc.13674}, pmid = {27534728}, issn = {1471-4159}, mesh = {*Editorial Policies ; Humans ; Learning ; Neurochemistry/methods/*trends ; Peer Review/methods/trends ; Periodicals as Topic/*trends ; Publishing/trends ; Societies, Scientific/*trends ; }, abstract = {Scientific journals that are owned by a learned society, like the Journal of Neurochemistry (JNC), which is owned by the International Society for Neurochemistry (ISN), benefit the scientific community in that a large proportion of the income is returned to support the scientific mission of the Society. The income generated by the JNC enables the ISN to organize conferences as a platform for members and non-members alike to share their research, supporting researchers particularly in developing countries by travel grants and other funds, and promoting education in student schools. These direct benefits and initiatives for ISN members and non-members distinguish a society journal from pure commerce. However, the world of scholarly publishing is changing rapidly. Open access models have challenged the business model of traditional journal subscription and hence provided free access to publicly funded scientific research. In these models, the manuscript authors pay a publication cost after peer review and acceptance of the manuscript. Over the last decade, numerous new open access journals have been launched and traditional subscription journals have started to offer open access (hybrid journals). However, open access journals follow the general scheme that, of all participating parties, the publisher receives the highest financial benefit. The income is generated by researchers whose positions and research are mostly financed by taxpayers' or funders' money, and by reviewers and editors, who frequently are not reimbursed. Last but not least, the authors pay for the publication of their work after a rigorous and sometimes painful review process. JNC itself has an open access option, at a significantly reduced cost for Society members as an additional benefit. This article provides first-hand insights from two former Editors-in-Chief, Kunihiko Suzuki and Leslie Iversen, about the history of JNC's ownership and about the difficulties and battles fought along the way to its current success and reputation. Scientific journals that are owned by a learned society, like the Journal of Neurochemistry (JNC) which is owned by the International Society for Neurochemistry (ISN), benefit the scientific community in that a large proportion of the income is returned to support the scientific mission of the Society. The income generated by the JNC enables the ISN to organize conferences as a platform for members and non-members alike to share their research, supporting researchers particularly in developing countries by travel grants and other funds, and to promote education in student schools. These direct benefits and initiatives for ISN members and non-members distinguish a society journal from pure commerce. However, the world of scholarly publishing is changing rapidly. Open access models have challenged the business model of traditional journal subscription and hence provide free access to publicly funded scientific research. In these models, the manuscript authors pay a publication cost after peer review and acceptance of the manuscript. Over the last decade, numerous new open access journals have been launched and traditional subscription journals have started to offer open access (hybrid journals). However, open access journals pertain to the general scheme that, of all participating parties, the publisher receives the highest financial benefit. The income is generated by researchers whose positions and research are mostly financed by tax payers' or funders' money, reviewers and editors, who frequently are not reimbursed. Last but not least, the authors pay for the publication of their work after a rigorous and sometimes painful review process. JNC itself has an open access option, at a significantly reduced cost for Society members as an additional benefit. This article provides first-hand insights from a long-standing Editor-in-Chief, Kunihiko Suzuki, about the history of JNC's ownership and about difficulties and battles fought on the way to its current success and reputation today. This article is part of the 60th Anniversary special issue.}, }
@article {pmid27790103, year = {2016}, author = {Casanova, R and Wang, X and Reyes, J and Akita, Y and Serre, ML and Vizuete, W and Chui, HC and Driscoll, I and Resnick, SM and Espeland, MA and Chen, JC}, title = {A Voxel-Based Morphometry Study Reveals Local Brain Structural Alterations Associated with Ambient Fine Particles in Older Women.}, journal = {Frontiers in human neuroscience}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {495}, pmid = {27790103}, issn = {1662-5161}, support = {P30 ES007048/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; P30 ES010126/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; P50 AG005142/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R21 AG051113/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 TR001420/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Objective: Exposure to ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5: PM with aerodynamic diameters < 2.5 μm) has been linked with cognitive deficits in older adults. Using fine-grained voxel-wise analyses, we examined whether PM2.5 exposure also affects brain structure. Methods: Brain MRI data were obtained from 1365 women (aged 71-89) in the Women's Health Initiative Memory Study and local brain volumes were estimated using RAVENS (regional analysis of volumes in normalized space). Based on geocoded residential locations and air monitoring data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, we employed a spatiotemporal model to estimate long-term (3-year average) exposure to ambient PM2.5 preceding MRI scans. Voxel-wise linear regression models were fit separately to gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) maps to analyze associations between brain structure and PM2.5 exposure, with adjustment for potential confounders. Results: Increased PM2.5 exposure was associated with smaller volumes in both cortical GM and subcortical WM areas. For GM, associations were clustered in the bilateral superior, middle, and medial frontal gyri. For WM, the largest clusters were in the frontal lobe, with smaller clusters in the temporal, parietal, and occipital lobes. No statistically significant associations were observed between PM2.5 exposure and hippocampal volumes. Conclusions: Long-term PM2.5 exposures may accelerate loss of both GM and WM in older women. While our previous work linked smaller WM volumes to PM2.5, this is the first neuroimaging study reporting associations between air pollution exposure and smaller volumes of cortical GM. Our data support the hypothesized synaptic neurotoxicity of airborne particles.}, }
@article {pmid27789968, year = {2016}, author = {Jensen, GS and Shah, B and Holtz, R and Patel, A and Lo, DC}, title = {Reduction of facial wrinkles by hydrolyzed water-soluble egg membrane associated with reduction of free radical stress and support of matrix production by dermal fibroblasts.}, journal = {Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {357-366}, pmid = {27789968}, issn = {1178-7015}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of water-soluble egg membrane (WSEM) on wrinkle reduction in a clinical pilot study and to elucidate specific mechanisms of action using primary human immune and dermal cell-based bioassays.<br><br>METHODS: To evaluate the effects of topical application of WSEM (8%) on human skin, an open-label 8-week study was performed involving 20 healthy females between the age of 45 years and 65 years. High-resolution photography and digital analysis were used to evaluate the wrinkle depth in the facial skin areas beside the eye (crow's feet). WSEM was tested for total antioxidant capacity and effects on the formation of reactive oxygen species by human polymorphonuclear cells. Human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) were used for quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis of the antioxidant response element genes Nqo1, Gclm, Gclc, and Hmox1. Evaluation of effects on human primary dermal fibroblasts in vitro included cellular viability and production of the matrix components collagen and elastin.<br><br>RESULTS: Topical use of a WSEM-containing facial cream for 8 weeks resulted in a significant reduction of wrinkle depth (P<0.05). WSEM contained antioxidants and reduced the formation of reactive oxygen species by inflammatory cells in vitro. Despite lack of a quantifiable effect on Nrf2, WSEM induced the gene expression of downstream Nqo1, Gclm, Gclc, and Hmox1 in human keratinocytes. Human dermal fibroblasts treated with WSEM produced more collagen and elastin than untreated cells or cells treated with dbcAMP control. The increase in collagen production was statistically significant (P<0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The topical use of WSEM on facial skin significantly reduced the wrinkle depth. The underlying mechanisms of this effect may be related to protection from free radical damage at the cellular level and induction of several antioxidant response elements, combined with stimulation of human dermal fibroblasts to secrete high levels of matrix components.}, }
@article {pmid27789089, year = {2016}, author = {Dunn, JC and Gruar, D and Stoate, C and Szczur, J and Peach, WJ}, title = {Can hedgerow management mitigate the impacts of predation on songbird nest survival?.}, journal = {Journal of environmental management}, volume = {184}, number = {Pt 3}, pages = {535-544}, doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2016.10.028}, pmid = {27789089}, issn = {1095-8630}, mesh = {Agriculture/*methods ; Animals ; Ecosystem ; England ; *Nesting Behavior ; *Predatory Behavior ; Reproduction ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Nest predators can have significant impacts on songbird reproductive success. These impacts may be amplified by habitat simplification and here we test whether sympathetic management of farmland hedgerows can reduce nest depredation, especially by corvids. We test whether songbirds select nest sites according to structural features of hedgerows (including nest visibility and accessibility), and whether these features influence nest predation risk. Songbirds selected nesting sites affording higher vegetation cover above the nest, increased visibility on the nest-side of the hedgerow and reduced visibility on the far side of the hedge. Nest survival was unrelated to corvid abundance and only weakly related (at the egg stage) to corvid nest proximity. Nest survival at the chick stage was higher where vegetation structure restricted access to corvid-sized predators (averaging 0.78 vs. 0.53), and at nests close to potential vantage points. Overall nest survival was sensitive to hedgerow structure (accessibility) particularly at low exposure to corvid predation, while the overall impact of corvid exposure was dependent on the relationship involving proximity to vantage points. Nest survival over the chick stage was much higher (0.67) in stock-proof, trimmed and mechanically cut hedgerows, (which tended to provide lower side visibility and accessibility) than in recently laid, remnant or leggy hedgerows (0.18). Long-term reductions in the management of British hedgerows may therefore be exposing nesting songbirds to increased predation risk. We recommend regular rotational cutting of hedgerows to maintain a dense woody structure and thereby reduce songbird nest predation.}, }
@article {pmid27785947, year = {2016}, author = {Manna, C and Officioso, A and Trojsi, F and Tedeschi, G and Leoncini, S and Signorini, C and Ciccoli, L and De Felice, C}, title = {Increased non-protein bound iron in Down syndrome: contribution to lipid peroxidation and cognitive decline.}, journal = {Free radical research}, volume = {50}, number = {12}, pages = {1422-1431}, doi = {10.1080/10715762.2016.1253833}, pmid = {27785947}, issn = {1029-2470}, mesh = {Cognitive Dysfunction/*genetics/*metabolism ; Down Syndrome/*complications ; Humans ; Iron/*metabolism ; Lipid Peroxidation/*genetics ; Oxidative Stress ; }, abstract = {Down syndrome (DS, trisomy 21) is the leading cause of chromosomal-related intellectual disability. At an early age, adults with DS develop with the neuropathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease, associated with a chronic oxidative stress. To investigate if non-protein bound iron (NPBI) can contribute to building up a pro-oxidative microenvironment, we evaluated NPBI in both plasma and erythrocytes from DS and age-matched controls, together with in vivo markers of lipid peroxidation (F2-isoprostanes, F2-dihomo-isoprostanes, F4-neuroprostanes) and in vitro reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation in erythrocytes. The serum iron panel and uric acid were also measured. Second, we explored possible correlation between NPBI, lipid peroxidation and cognitive performance. Here, we report NPBI increase in DS, which correlates with increased serum ferritin and uric acid. High levels of lipid peroxidation markers and intraerythrocyte ROS formations were also reported. Furthermore, the scores of Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test, performed as a measure of current cognitive function, are inversely related to NPBI, serum uric acid, and ferritin. Likewise, ROS production, F2-isoprostanes, and F4-neuroprostanes were also inversely related to cognitive performance, whereas serum transferrin positively correlated to RCPM scores. Our data reveal that increased availability of free redox-active iron, associated with enhanced lipid peroxidation, may be involved in neurodegeneration and cognitive decline in DS. In this respect, we propose chelation therapy as a potential preventive/therapeutic tool in DS.}, }
@article {pmid27709968, year = {2016}, author = {Ostojić, L and Legg, EW and Dits, A and Williams, N and Brecht, KF and Mendl, M and Clayton, NS}, title = {Experimenter expectancy bias does not explain Eurasian jays' (Garrulus glandarius) performance in a desire-state attribution task.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {130}, number = {4}, pages = {407-410}, doi = {10.1037/com0000043}, pmid = {27709968}, issn = {1939-2087}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bias ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; *Food ; Male ; *Motivation ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Social Behavior ; Social Perception ; }, abstract = {Male Eurasian jays have been found to adjust the type of food they share with their female partner after seeing her eat 1 type of food to satiety. One interpretation of this behavior is that the male encoded the female's decreased desire for the food she was sated on, and adjusted his behavior accordingly. However, in these studies, the male's actions were scored by experimenters who knew on which food the female was sated. Thus, it is possible that the experimenters' expectations (subconsciously) affected their behavior during tests that, in turn, inadvertently could have influenced the males' actions. Here, we repeated the original test with an experimenter who was blind to the food on which the female was sated. This procedure yielded the same results as the original studies: The male shared food with the female that was in line with her current desire. Thus, our results rule out the possibility that the Eurasian jay males' actions in the food sharing task could be explained by the effects of an experimenter expectancy bias. (PsycINFO Database Record}, }
@article {pmid27781155, year = {2016}, author = {Lees, JJ and Dimitriadis, G and Nudds, RL}, title = {The influence of flight style on the aerodynamic properties of avian wings as fixed lifting surfaces.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {e2495}, pmid = {27781155}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {The diversity of wing morphologies in birds reflects their variety of flight styles and the associated aerodynamic and inertial requirements. Although the aerodynamics underlying wing morphology can be informed by aeronautical research, important differences exist between planes and birds. In particular, birds operate at lower, transitional Reynolds numbers than do most aircraft. To date, few quantitative studies have investigated the aerodynamic performance of avian wings as fixed lifting surfaces and none have focused upon the differences between wings from different flight style groups. Dried wings from 10 bird species representing three distinct flight style groups were mounted on a force/torque sensor within a wind tunnel in order to test the hypothesis that wing morphologies associated with different flight styles exhibit different aerodynamic properties. Morphological differences manifested primarily as differences in drag rather than lift. Maximum lift coefficients did not differ between groups, whereas minimum drag coefficients were lowest in undulating flyers (Corvids). The lift to drag ratios were lower than in conventional aerofoils and data from free-flying soaring species; particularly in high frequency, flapping flyers (Anseriformes), which do not rely heavily on glide performance. The results illustrate important aerodynamic differences between the wings of different flight style groups that cannot be explained solely by simple wing-shape measures. Taken at face value, the results also suggest that wing-shape is linked principally to changes in aerodynamic drag, but, of course, it is aerodynamics during flapping and not gliding that is likely to be the primary driver.}, }
@article {pmid27779445, year = {2017}, author = {Hirst, RB and Teague, AM and Sodos, LM and Wickham, RE and Whittington, LT and Mills, BM and Earleywine, M}, title = {Determining Cannabis Use Status From a Photograph: An Assessment of the "Jay-dar" in Neuropsychologists.}, journal = {Substance use &amp; misuse}, volume = {52}, number = {3}, pages = {401-410}, doi = {10.1080/10826084.2016.1233564}, pmid = {27779445}, issn = {1532-2491}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Humans ; Male ; Marijuana Abuse/*diagnosis/psychology ; Middle Aged ; *Neuropsychology ; Photography ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Few studies examining the cognitive effects of chronic cannabis use utilize research designs where examiners are blind to user status. Even in those that do, researchers may be able to guess the user status of participants, leaving these studies vulnerable to the expectancy effect confound.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The present study examined the ability of neuropsychologists (those who would conduct research on the cognitive effects of cannabis) to differentiate cannabis users and nonusers based on physical appearance from photographs.<br><br>METHOD: We recruited 84 participants from an international neuropsychology listserv. The sample was 59.5% female and 95.2% Caucasian, with a mean age of 41.39&#xa0;years (range 26-65). Each neuropsychologist rated 25 target faces (12 cannabis users, 13 nonusers) on a Marijuana Use Likelihood Index based upon individuals' photographs.<br><br>RESULTS: Results indicate a main effect of user group, as neuropsychologists ascribed higher ratings to cannabis users on the Marijuana Use Likelihood Index, suggesting they perceive them as more likely to be users, relative to nonusers. Results also demonstrated a main effect of gender, as males received higher user ratings than females, and a significant main effect of rater gender, as female raters were more likely to rate individuals as cannabis users relative to male raters. Conclusions/Importance: The results demonstrate the importance of assessing researchers' expectations when studying the effects of chronic cannabis use, as even those designs that keep examiners blind to participant user status may be vulnerable to expectancy effects if examiners are able to guess user status based upon appearance alone.}, }
@article {pmid27776017, year = {2016}, author = {Sheynkin, Y and Baron, P and Schulsinger, D}, title = {Levi Jay Hammond and the First Human Organ Transplantations in 1911.}, journal = {Transplantation}, volume = {100}, number = {11}, pages = {2241-2243}, doi = {10.1097/TP.0000000000001499}, pmid = {27776017}, issn = {1534-6080}, mesh = {Animals ; Biomedical Research/*history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Organ Transplantation/*history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid27718536, year = {2017}, author = {Wagener, L and Nieder, A}, title = {Encoding of global visual motion in the nidopallium caudolaterale of behaving crows.}, journal = {The European journal of neuroscience}, volume = {45}, number = {2}, pages = {267-277}, doi = {10.1111/ejn.13430}, pmid = {27718536}, issn = {1460-9568}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Brain/physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Crows ; *Motion ; Motion Perception/*physiology ; Neurons/*physiology ; Photic Stimulation/methods ; Songbirds ; Telencephalon/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Songbirds possess acute vision. How higher brain centres represent basic and parameterised visual stimuli to process sensory signals according to their behavioural importance has not been studied in a systematic way. We therefore examined how carrion crows (Corvus corone) and their nidopallial visual neurons process global visual motion information in dynamic random-dot displays during a delayed match-to-sample (DMS) task. The behavioural data show that moderately fast motion speeds (16° of visual angle/s) result in superior direction discrimination performance. To characterise how neurons encode and maintain task-relevant visual motion information, we recorded the single-unit activity in the telencephalic association area 'nidopallium caudolaterale' (NCL) of behaving crows. The NCL is considered to be the avian analogue of the mammalian prefrontal cortex. Almost a third (28%) of randomly selected NCL neurons responded selectively to the motion direction of the sample stimulus, mostly to downward motions. Only few NCL neurons (7.5%) responded consistently to specific motion directions during the delay period. In error trials, when the crows chose the wrong motion direction, the encoding of motion direction was significantly reduced. This indicates that sensory representations of NCL neurons are relevant to the birds' behaviour. These data suggest that the corvid NCL, even though operating at the apex of the telencephalic processing hierarchy, constitutes a telencephalic site for global motion integration.}, }
@article {pmid27669429, year = {2016}, author = {Kiel, JM}, title = {Using Organizational Development for Electronic Medical Record Transformation.}, journal = {The health care manager}, volume = {35}, number = {4}, pages = {305-311}, doi = {10.1097/HCM.0000000000000131}, pmid = {27669429}, issn = {1550-512X}, mesh = {Delivery of Health Care ; Electronic Health Records/*organization &amp; administration ; Humans ; *Models, Organizational ; *Organizational Innovation ; }, abstract = {With mandates requiring the transition from paper medical records to the use of electronic medical records, organizations are embarking on a change process. To engender this process, organizational development models and interventions based predominantly on the theories of Chris Argyris, Warren Bennis, and the team of Paul Lawrence and Jay Lorsch are explored. Interventions are subdivided into behavioral and structural as organizations benefit by recognizing a need for change and, perhaps, a cultural shift in addition to refocusing their mission. To support these interventions, a champion or super user is recommended to maintain the momentum of the transformation and enculturation. With so many changes in the internal and external environments, organizations must respond systematically for, in health care, lives depend on it.}, }
@article {pmid26537631, year = {2016}, author = {Kail, RV and Lervåg, A and Hulme, C}, title = {Longitudinal evidence linking processing speed to the development of reasoning.}, journal = {Developmental science}, volume = {19}, number = {6}, pages = {1067-1074}, pmid = {26537631}, issn = {1467-7687}, support = {R01 HD046927/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Age-related change in processing speed has been linked directly to increases in reasoning as well as indirectly via increases in the capacity of working memory (WM). Most of the evidence linking change in speed to reasoning has come from cross-sectional research; in this article we present the findings from a 2½-year longitudinal study of 277 6- to-13-year-olds. On three occasions, speed of information processing was assessed with Visual Matching and Cross Out; WM was assessed with reading, listening, backward digit, alphabet, and operation span tasks; and nonverbal reasoning was assessed with Raven's progressive matrices. The results provided consistent evidence of direct links from processing speed to reasoning but inconsistent evidence for indirect links from speed to WM to reasoning. These findings suggest that variations in processing speed may constrain the development of reasoning, directly and perhaps indirectly. A video abstract of this article can be viewed at: https://youtu.be/nc0VlFdi468.}, }
@article {pmid27757574, year = {2017}, author = {McIntosh, CS and Dadour, IR and Voss, SC}, title = {A comparison of carcass decomposition and associated insect succession onto burnt and unburnt pig carcasses.}, journal = {International journal of legal medicine}, volume = {131}, number = {3}, pages = {835-845}, pmid = {27757574}, issn = {1437-1596}, mesh = {Animals ; Case-Control Studies ; *Coleoptera ; *Cremation ; *Diptera ; Entomology ; *Feeding Behavior ; Forensic Sciences ; *Postmortem Changes ; Swine ; Western Australia ; }, abstract = {The rate of decomposition and insect succession onto decomposing pig carcasses were investigated following burning of carcasses. Ten pig carcasses (40-45 kg) were exposed to insect activity during autumn (March-April) in Western Australia. Five replicates were burnt to a degree described by the Crow-Glassman Scale (CGS) level #2, while five carcasses were left unburnt as controls. Burning carcasses greatly accelerated decomposition in contrast to unburnt carcasses. Physical modifications following burning such as skin discolouration, splitting of abdominal tissue and leathery consolidation of skin eliminated evidence of bloat and altered microambient temperatures associated with carcasses throughout decomposition. Insect species identified on carcasses were consistent between treatment groups; however, a statistically significant difference in insect succession onto remains was evident between treatments (PERMANOVA F (1, 224) = 14.23, p < 0.01) during an 8-day period that corresponds with the wet stage of decomposition. Differences were noted in the arrival time of late colonisers (Coleoptera) and the development of colonising insects between treatment groups. Differences in the duration of decomposition stages and insect assemblages indicate that burning has an effect on both rate of decomposition and insect succession. The findings presented here provide baseline data for entomological casework involving burnt remains criminal investigations.}, }
@article {pmid27288106, year = {2016}, author = {Friedman, SG}, title = {Credit where due.}, journal = {Journal of vascular surgery}, volume = {64}, number = {2}, pages = {530-533}, doi = {10.1016/j.jvs.2016.04.033}, pmid = {27288106}, issn = {1097-6809}, mesh = {Biomedical Research/*history ; *Cooperative Behavior ; Correspondence as Topic/history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; *Nobel Prize ; Periodicals as Topic/history ; Personality ; Recognition, Psychology ; Vascular Surgical Procedures/*history ; }, abstract = {The history of medicine is filled with stories of tireless researchers who failed to get credit for their hard work. Examples of this include Rosalind Franklin, who helped to elucidate the structure of DNA; Frederick Banting, who helped to discover insulin; and Jay McLean, who discovered heparin. The founding of the field of vascular surgery provides one of the most vivid examples of uncredited work. Even though Alexis Carrel was an unpaid, untitled assistant in Charles Guthrie's laboratory, it was Carrel alone who received a Nobel Prize for their work. In an attempt to give credit where due, the reasons for this injustice are described.}, }
@article {pmid27746026, year = {2016}, author = {Chen, N and Cosgrove, EJ and Bowman, R and Fitzpatrick, JW and Clark, AG}, title = {Genomic Consequences of Population Decline in the Endangered Florida Scrub-Jay.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {26}, number = {21}, pages = {2974-2979}, pmid = {27746026}, issn = {1879-0445}, support = {R01 GM108779/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Endangered Species ; Florida ; *Gene Flow ; *Genetic Fitness ; *Genome ; *Inbreeding ; Life History Traits ; Phenotype ; Population Dynamics ; Songbirds/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Understanding the population genetic consequences of declining population size is important for conserving the many species worldwide facing severe decline [1]. Thorough empirical studies on the impacts of population reduction at a genome-wide scale in the wild are scarce because they demand huge field and laboratory investments [1, 2]. Previous studies have demonstrated the importance of gene flow in introducing genetic variation to small populations [3], but few have documented both genetic and fitness consequences of decreased immigration through time in a natural population [4-6]. Here we assess temporal variation in gene flow, inbreeding, and fitness using longitudinal genomic, demographic, and phenotypic data from a long-studied population of federally Threatened Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens). We exhaustively sampled and genotyped the study population over two decades, providing one of the most detailed longitudinal investigations of genetics in a wild animal population to date. Immigrants were less heterozygous than residents but still introduced genetic variation into our study population. Owing to regional population declines, immigration into the study population declined from 1995-2013, resulting in increased levels of inbreeding and reduced fitness via inbreeding depression, even as the population remained demographically stable. Our results show that, contrary to conventional wisdom, small peripheral populations that already have undergone a genetic bottleneck may play a vital role in preserving genetic diversity of larger and seemingly stable populations. These findings underscore the importance of investing in the persistence of small populations and maintaining population connectivity in conservation of fragmented species.}, }
@article {pmid27745723, year = {2018}, author = {Guillod, L and Habersaat, S and Suter, M and Jeanneret, T and Bertoni, C and Stéphan, P and Urben, S}, title = {[Psychological processes of stress management and neuroendocrine regulation in incarcerated adolescent offenders: A pilot study].}, journal = {L'Encephale}, volume = {44}, number = {2}, pages = {111-117}, doi = {10.1016/j.encep.2016.08.012}, pmid = {27745723}, issn = {0013-7006}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Aggression/psychology ; Antisocial Personality Disorder/psychology ; Child ; Humans ; Hydrocortisone/metabolism ; Juvenile Delinquency/*psychology ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Neurosecretory Systems/*metabolism ; Pilot Projects ; Prisoners/*psychology ; *Prisons ; Stress, Psychological/*metabolism/*psychology ; Substance-Related Disorders/complications/psychology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Adolescence is a stressful period where important biological, psychological and social changes occur. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable during this developmental period and can use various strategies to deal with daily stress, such as substance use or externalizing behaviors. In previous studies, stress in adolescents with externalizing behaviors was often linked to ineffective cognitive coping strategies (i.e., constructive thinking) and overlooking the biological aspects involved in stress management such as neuroendocrine regulation. Indeed, repeated activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in chronic stress situations may have long-term effects on subsequent cortisol regulation and lead to psychological difficulties. It was also shown that basal cortisol levels are lower in adolescents with externalizing behaviors. This study aims to assess the links between constructive thinking and neuroendocrine regulation in adolescent offenders and their association with externalizing symptoms (e.g., aggression, delinquency, psychopathic traits, substance use). Identifying particular biopsychological patterns can help to better understand stress management in youth with externalizing behaviors and to improve clinical treatments.<br><br>METHOD: Sixteen adolescent males aged from 12 to 18&#xa0;years were recruited in an institution for juvenile offenders. Exclusion criteria were insufficient reasoning abilities assessed using the Raven Matrices Test. Regarding psychological dimensions, constructive thinking was assessed through the Constructive thinking inventory (CTI), psychopathic traits through the Youth psychopathic traits inventory (YPI), externalizing behaviors through 30&#xa0;items (out of 113) and 2&#xa0;subscales (aggressive behavior and delinquency problems) from the Child behavior checklist-youth self-report (CBCL), and substance use through the Dep-ado. Regarding biological dimensions, cortisol daily secretion and regulation were assessed through saliva samples that were collected during 3&#xa0;consecutive days (4&#xa0;samples per day: directly after awakening, at 10&#xa0;a.m., at 4&#xa0;a.m., and before going to bed).<br><br>RESULTS: Adolescent offenders presented maladaptative thinking styles and a particular neuroendocrine regulation in their daily management with stress. In particular, their level of cortisol in the morning was higher than those expected in a general population (20.34&#xa0;nmol/L while the norm is around 10&#xa0;nmol/L). They also showed more agressive and delinquent behaviors (CBCL) as well as more psychopathic traits (YPI) than the general population. Moreover, constructive thinking style was associated with personality and behavioral dimensions. Indeed, results indicated positive and significant correlations between categorical thinking style (CTI), psychopathic traits (YPI) (r=0.57, P=0.021) and externalizing behaviors (CBCL) (r=0.55, P=0.028). In other words, the more adolescent offenders used categorical thinking, the more they presented psychopathic traits and externalizing behaviors. With respect to the association between psychological and biological dimensions in stress management, we observed a significant and positive correlation between cortisol regulation and esoteric thinking (r=0.57, P=0.028) and a trend with superstitious thinking (r=0.47, P=0.075). The more adolescent offenders used esoteric and superstitious thinking, the poorer was their cortisol regulation. We also observed a trend between the life style scale of the YPI (i.e., impulsive, irresponsible) and the daily secretion of cortisol (r=0.51; P=0.052) as well as cortisol regulation (r=0.49, P=0.065). The more adolescent offenders presented psychopathic traits, the higher tended to be their daily secretion of cortisol and the poorer their cortisol regulation. Finally, cortisol regulation (r=0.54, P=0.038) and secretion (r=0.73, P=0.002) were significantly correlated with the DEP-Ado score. In other words, a poor cortisol regulation and a high secretion of cortisol seem to be associated with substance use.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Adolescent offenders face an important amount of daily stress and do not always have the appropriate skills to deal with it. Indeed, we know from clinical experience that they often report a sense of hopelessness toward their lack of professional perspectives as well as familial conflicts which can be important stressors in addition to the incarceration in itself. Therefore, treatment aiming to improve psychic elaboration can help these adolescents to make their thinking styles more flexible and use more appropriate ways of coping with stress instead of externalizing behaviors and substance use. Moreover, considering the complex cases of these adolescents and the many changes of caregivers and institutions where they have lived, which can be important stressors as well, professionals working with these youth should be aware of their emotional reactions toward them and try to encourage continuity of care.}, }
@article {pmid27738852, year = {2019}, author = {Hansen, JA}, title = {Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Hansen Research Services Matrix Adaptive Test: A Measure of Nonverbal IQ.}, journal = {Journal of autism and developmental disorders}, volume = {49}, number = {7}, pages = {2721-2732}, pmid = {27738852}, issn = {1573-3432}, support = {239534//Simons Foundation/ ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Child ; Child Development Disorders, Pervasive/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/*standards ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Psychometrics/standards ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {Assessment of individuals on the autism spectrum often includes a measure of nonverbal IQ. One such measure is the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM). For large research studies with participants distributed nationally it is desirable for assessments to be available online. Because time is a premium, it is ideal that the measure produces accurate scores quickly. The Hansen Research Services Matrix Adaptive Test (HRS-MAT) addresses these needs and with similar psychometric properties of the RSPM. Scores based on the HRS-MAT correlated at r = .81 with those of the RSPM. In adult-child pairs, HRS-MAT scores correlated at approximately r = .50. Details from respondents in a national sample and psychometric properties including reliability and validity are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid27738611, year = {2016}, author = {Soleimanifar, S and Jafari, Z and Motasaddi Zarandy, M and Asadi, H and Haghani, H}, title = {Relationship between Intelligence Quotient and Musical Ability in Children with Cochlear Implantation.}, journal = {Iranian journal of otorhinolaryngology}, volume = {28}, number = {88}, pages = {345-352}, pmid = {27738611}, issn = {2251-7251}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Children with cochlear implants (CIs) may experience few opportunities for positive musical experiences, and musical perception is therefore often not sufficiently developed. This paper investigates and discusses the relationship between intelligence quotient (IQ) and musical ability in children with CIs compared with children with normal hearing.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a comparative analytical study conducted in 48 children with unilateral CI and 48 normal-hearing children, 6-8 years of age, with 'normal' IQ and no formal music training. The average IQ score in the experimental and control groups were 105.41 and 106.31, respectively. No statistically significant differences were detected between Raven's IQ scores in both groups. Data were collected by administering Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices IQ Tests and the Montreal Battery of Evaluation of Musical Abilities (MBEMA) Test, consisting of scale, contour, interval, rhythm, and memory sections.<br><br>RESULTS: Mean total MBEMA score in the experimental and control groups was 58.93 and 72.16 (out of 100), respectively. Significant differences were evident between scores of children with CIs in comparison with their normal-hearing peers (P&#x2264;0.001). A remarkable direct correlation between IQ and musical scores in both the control (r&#x2265;0.38) and experimental (r&#x2265;0.37) groups was observed.<br><br>CONCLUSION: IQ has a noticeable effect on music processing and facilitates the perception of various musical elements. With regard to the mutual relationship between IQ and musical skills, this study illustrates the advantage of determining music perception scores and highlights the importance of appropriate musical intervention in order to enhance auditory neural plasticity, especially in children with cochlear implantation.}, }
@article {pmid27738383, year = {2016}, author = {Królikowska, N and Szymkowiak, J and Laidlaw, RA and Kuczyński, L}, title = {Threat-sensitive anti-predator defence in precocial wader, the northern lapwing Vanellus vanellus.}, journal = {Acta ethologica}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {163-171}, pmid = {27738383}, issn = {0873-9749}, abstract = {Birds exhibit various forms of anti-predator behaviours to avoid reproductive failure, with mobbing-observation, approach and usually harassment of a predator-being one of the most commonly observed. Here, we investigate patterns of temporal variation in the mobbing response exhibited by a precocial species, the northern lapwing (Vanellus vanellus). We test whether brood age and self-reliance, or the perceived risk posed by various predators, affect mobbing response of lapwings. We quantified aggressive interactions between lapwings and their natural avian predators and used generalized additive models to test how timing and predator species identity are related to the mobbing response of lapwings. Lapwings diversified mobbing response within the breeding season and depending on predator species. Raven Corvus corax, hooded crow Corvus cornix and harriers evoked the strongest response, while common buzzard Buteo buteo, white stork Ciconia ciconia, black-headed gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus and rook Corvus frugilegus were less frequently attacked. Lapwings increased their mobbing response against raven, common buzzard, white stork and rook throughout the breeding season, while defence against hooded crow, harriers and black-headed gull did not exhibit clear temporal patterns. Mobbing behaviour of lapwings apparently constitutes a flexible anti-predator strategy. The anti-predator response depends on predator species, which may suggest that lapwings distinguish between predator types and match mobbing response to the perceived hazard at different stages of the breeding cycle. We conclude that a single species may exhibit various patterns of temporal variation in anti-predator defence, which may correspond with various hypotheses derived from parental investment theory.}, }
@article {pmid27736663, year = {2016}, author = {Peviani, V and Scarpa, P and Toraldo, A and Bottini, G}, title = {Accounting for ethnic-cultural and linguistic diversity in neuropsychological assessment of patients with drug-resistant epilepsy: A retrospective study.}, journal = {Epilepsy &amp; behavior : E&amp;B}, volume = {64}, number = {Pt A}, pages = {94-101}, doi = {10.1016/j.yebeh.2016.09.011}, pmid = {27736663}, issn = {1525-5069}, mesh = {*Acculturation ; Adult ; Cognitive Dysfunction/*diagnosis/*ethnology/etiology ; Drug Resistant Epilepsy/complications/*ethnology ; *Emigrants and Immigrants ; Female ; Humans ; Italy/ethnology ; Language Tests/*standards ; Male ; *Multilingualism ; Neuropsychological Tests/*standards ; Retrospective Studies ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Neuropsychological assessment is critical in both diagnosis and prognosis of patients with epilepsy. Beyond electrophysiological and anatomical alterations, other factors including different ethnic-cultural and linguistic backgrounds might affect neuropsychological performance. Only a few studies considered migration and acculturation effects and they typically concerned nonclinical samples. The current study aimed at investigating the influence of ethnic background and time spent in Italy on a full neuropsychological battery administered to both Italian and foreign-born patients and at providing a brief interview for obtaining relevant information on each patient's transcultural and language-related history. Clinical reports from 43 foreign-born patients with drug-resistant epilepsy were collected from the archives of Milan Niguarda Hospital. Epileptogenic zone, age, education, profession, illness duration, seizure frequency, handedness, and gender were considered in selecting 43 Italian controls. Ethnicity (Italian/foreign-born) and years spent in Italy were analyzed as main predictors on 21 neuropsychological scales by means of General(ized) Linear Models. An additional analysis studied two composite scores of overall verbal and nonverbal abilities. Ethnicity significantly affected the following: the verbal overall score, Verbal Fluency, Naming, Token-test, Digit Span, Attentional Matrices, Trail-Making-Test, Line-Orientation-Test, and Raven matrices; no effects were found on the nonverbal overall score, Word Pairs Learning, Episodic Memory, reading accuracy, visual span, Bells test, Rey Figure, and face memory and recognition. No significant effects of years spent in Italy emerged. While years spent in Italy does not predict neuropsychological performance, linguistic background had a strong impact on it. With respect to Italian-speaking patients, those who were foreign-born showed large task-related variability, with an especially low performance on language-related tests. Hence, language tests should not be considered as valid measures of neuropsychological impairment in this population, not even in foreign-born patients with good Italian fluency. Clinicians should consider such asymmetries in order to improve the accuracy of neuropsychological assessment of foreign-born patients.}, }
@article {pmid27721395, year = {2016}, author = {Saakian, DB and Yakushkina, T and Hu, CK}, title = {The rich phase structure of a mutator model.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {34840}, pmid = {27721395}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {*Evolution, Molecular ; *Models, Genetic ; *Mutation ; Mutation Rate ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {We propose a modification of the Crow-Kimura and Eigen models of biological molecular evolution to include a mutator gene that causes both an increase in the mutation rate and a change in the fitness landscape. This mutator effect relates to a wide range of biomedical problems. There are three possible phases: mutator phase, mixed phase and non-selective phase. We calculate the phase structure, the mean fitness and the fraction of the mutator allele in the population, which can be applied to describe cancer development and RNA viruses. We find that depending on the genome length, either the normal or the mutator allele dominates in the mixed phase. We analytically solve the model for a general fitness function. We conclude that the random fitness landscape is an appropriate choice for describing the observed mutator phenomenon in the case of a small fraction of mutators. It is shown that the increase in the mutation rates in the regular and the mutator parts of the genome should be set independently; only some combinations of these increases can push the complex biomedical system to the non-selective phase, potentially related to the eradication of tumors.}, }
@article {pmid27709603, year = {2017}, author = {Kennedy, JD and Borregaard, MK and Jønsson, KA and Holt, B and Fjeldså, J and Rahbek, C}, title = {Does the colonization of new biogeographic regions influence the diversification and accumulation of clade richness among the Corvides (Aves: Passeriformes)?.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {71}, number = {1}, pages = {38-50}, doi = {10.1111/evo.13080}, pmid = {27709603}, issn = {1558-5646}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biodiversity ; Biological Evolution ; *Genetic Speciation ; Phylogeny ; Songbirds/classification/genetics/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Regional variation in clade richness can be vast, reflecting differences in the dynamics of historical dispersal and diversification among lineages. Although it has been proposed that dispersal into new biogeographic regions may facilitate diversification, to date there has been limited assessment of the importance of this process in the generation, and maintenance, of broad-scale biodiversity gradients. To address this issue, we analytically derive biogeographic regions for a global radiation of passerine birds (the Corvides, c. 790 species) that are highly variable in the geographic and taxonomic distribution of species. Subsequently, we determine rates of historical dispersal between regions, the dynamics of diversification following regional colonization, and spatial variation in the distribution of species that differ in their rates of lineage diversification. The results of these analyses reveal spatiotemporal differences in the build-up of lineages across regions. The number of regions occupied and the rate of transition between regions both predict family richness well, indicating that the accumulation of high clade richness is associated with repeated expansion into new geographic areas. However, only the largest family (the Corvidae) had significantly heightened rates of both speciation and regional transition, implying that repeated regional colonization is not a general mechanism promoting lineage diversification among the Corvides.}, }
@article {pmid27699964, year = {2016}, author = {Sharova, AA}, title = {Comparison of different consensuses of BTXA in different countries.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {540-548}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.12287}, pmid = {27699964}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Consensus ; Europe ; Face ; Humans ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Russia ; *Skin Aging ; United States ; }, abstract = {The most international dosing guidelines on the use of botulinum toxin type A (BTXA) drugs support a 1:1 dose relationship between OnaBTXA and IncoBTXA and 1:2.5 between OnaBTXA and AboBTXA. However, different facial zones demonstrate different doses conversion ratios. The comparative analysis of nine consensuses on the use of Abo-, Ona-, and IncoBTXA in the United States, Russia, and Europe has been performed. We conducted a review of publications adopting the key words "botulinum toxin consensus," "botulinum toxin guideline." Information search has been carried out primarily in specialized databases (DB). To find the relevant RCTs and guidelines/consensuses, the following databases were used: PubMed and Medline that were screened up to May 2008. Results regarding dose ratios for OnaBTXA:AboBTXA and IncoBTXA:AboBTXA showed that in most cases it is characterized both by increase and by decrease compared to the ratio of 1:2.5. The mean value of dose ratios OnaBTXA:AboBTXA adopted in the United States is 1:2.8. The ratio IncoBTXA:AboBTXA according to international and Russian data is 1:1.9. There are some differences in clinical approach of BTXA use in certain countries. In Russia, low doses are recommended for "crow's feet" and forehead. The US consensus recommends a higher dosage to correct perioral wrinkles. Despite many years of experience in using BTXA, there is no strict international uniformity of clinical guidelines. The recommended doses for the individual areas of the face may differ in different countries. Therefore, physicians in their practice should be guided not by international consensuses, but prefer a national guidelines.}, }
@article {pmid27690192, year = {2017}, author = {Mete, A and Rogers, K and Houston, R}, title = {Systemic Collyriclum faba (Trematoda: Collyriclidae) Infection in a Wild Common Raven (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {53}, number = {1}, pages = {193-196}, doi = {10.7589/2016-02-032}, pmid = {27690192}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases ; California ; Crows/*parasitology ; Trematoda/*isolation &amp; purification ; Trematode Infections/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {A hatch-year Common Raven (Corvus corax) with subcutaneous and internal pseudocysts, filled with fluid, containing a pair of adult trematodes and numerous eggs consistent with Collyriclum faba, died near a riverbank in California, US. While C. faba is incidental in many Passeriformes, this case was a fatal systemic infection.}, }
@article {pmid27688847, year = {2016}, author = {Rahman, NA and Ali, Z and Zuharah, WF and Fadzly, N}, title = {Counting with Colours? Effect of Colours on the Numerical Abilities of House Crows (Corvus splendens) and Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis).}, journal = {Tropical life sciences research}, volume = {27}, number = {2}, pages = {1-12}, pmid = {27688847}, issn = {1985-3718}, abstract = {UNLABELLED: We conducted several aviary experiments to investigate the influence of colours in quantity judgments of two species of birds; house crow (Corvus splendens) and common myna (Acridotheres tristis). Different quantity (in seven different food proportions) of mealworms were presented nonsequentially to all birds using artificially coloured red mealworms, for experiment 1, and using artificially coloured green mealworms, for experiment 2. Both red and green coloured mealworms have no significant effect on house crow's quantity judgments (red:<br><br>ANOVA: F6,30 = 1.748, p = 0.144; and green:<br><br>ANOVA: F6,30= 1.085, p = 0.394). Common myna, however, showed a strong influence of red colour in their quantity judgment (<br><br>ANOVA: F6,30 = 2.922, p = 0.023) as they succeeded in choosing the largest amount of food between two cups, but not when offered food using green coloured mealworms (<br><br>ANOVA: F6,30 = 1.183, p = 0.342). In the next experiment, we hypothesised that both house crow and common myna will prefer red coloured food items over green coloured food items, when factors such as the amount of food is equal. We chose to test red and green colours because both colours play an important role in most avian food selections. Results showed that there were no significant differences in the selection of red or green coloured mealworms for both house crows (<br><br>ANOVA: F6,30 = 2.310, p = 0.06) and common myna (<br><br>ANOVA: F6,30 = 0.823, p = 0.561).}, }
@article {pmid27682557, year = {2016}, author = {Bates, J}, title = {Animal magic in tending the sick.}, journal = {Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987)}, volume = {31}, number = {5}, pages = {31}, doi = {10.7748/ns.31.5.31.s33}, pmid = {27682557}, issn = {2047-9018}, mesh = {Animals ; Cats ; Humans ; *Magic ; Pets/*psychology ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {Most people are given grapes or flowers when they are ill. My friend got a dead magpie from her moggie Fergus.}, }
@article {pmid27680089, year = {2017}, author = {Cassimiro, L and Fuentes, D and Nitrini, R and Yassuda, MS}, title = {Decision-making in Cognitively Unimpaired Illiterate and Low-educated Older Women: Results on the Iowa Gambling Task.}, journal = {Archives of clinical neuropsychology : the official journal of the National Academy of Neuropsychologists}, volume = {32}, number = {1}, pages = {71-80}, doi = {10.1093/arclin/acw080}, pmid = {27680089}, issn = {1873-5843}, mesh = {Aged ; Aging/*psychology ; Brazil ; Cognition ; *Decision Making ; *Educational Status ; Female ; Gambling/psychology ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Portugal/ethnology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the pattern of decision-making (DM) on the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) in a sample of Portuguese speaking healthy older women in Brazil with limited education: illiterate, 1-2 years, and 3-4 years of schooling.<br><br>METHODS: Around 164 non-demented community-dwelling women participated in the study. Among them 60 were illiterate, 52 had 1-2 years of schooling and 52 had 3-4 years of schooling. Participants completed the instruments: Brief Cognitive Screening Battery (BCSB), Mini-Mental State Examination, Verbal Fluency Test (animal category), Clock Drawing Test, Geriatric Depression Scale, Geriatric Anxiety Inventory, Digit Span Forward and Backward, Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, and IGT.<br><br>RESULTS: The three education groups were equivalent as to age, number of diseases, medications taken daily, depression, and anxiety symptoms. In the IGT the literate older adults made more advantageous choices than the illiterate and IGT performance improved linearly with higher levels of education. IGT performance correlated significantly with all cognitive test scores with the exception of the memorization of the pictures on the BCSB.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results suggested that education influences IGT performance, with worse scores among the illiterate. Results may be used by clinicians to interpret IGT performance among seniors with low literacy levels.}, }
@article {pmid27677399, year = {2017}, author = {Scofield, RP and Mitchell, KJ and Wood, JR and De Pietri, VL and Jarvie, S and Llamas, B and Cooper, A}, title = {The origin and phylogenetic relationships of the New Zealand ravens.}, journal = {Molecular phylogenetics and evolution}, volume = {106}, number = {}, pages = {136-143}, doi = {10.1016/j.ympev.2016.09.022}, pmid = {27677399}, issn = {1095-9513}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Biological Evolution ; Crows/*classification/genetics ; Cytochromes b/classification/genetics/metabolism ; DNA/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification/metabolism ; Fossils ; New Zealand ; Phylogeny ; Sequence Alignment ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Skull/anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {The relationships of the extinct New Zealand ravens (Corvus spp.) are poorly understood. We sequenced the mitogenomes of the two currently recognised species and found they were sister-taxa to a clade comprising the Australian raven, little raven, and forest raven (C.coronoides, C. mellori and C. tasmanicus respectively). The divergence between the New Zealand ravens and Australian raven clade occurred in the latest Pliocene, which coincides with the onset of glacial deforestation. We also found that the divergence between the two putative New Zealand species C. antipodum and C. moriorum probably occurred in the late Pleistocene making their separation as species untenable. Consequently, we consider Corax antipodum (Forbes, 1893) to be a subspecies of Corvus moriorum Forbes, 1892. We re-examine the osteological evidence that led 19th century researchers to assign the New Zealand taxa to a separate genus, and re-assess these features in light of our new phylogenetic hypotheses. Like previous researchers, we conclude that the morphology of the palate of C. moriorum is unique among the genus Corvus, and suggest this may be an adaptation for a specialist diet.}, }
@article {pmid27672510, year = {2016}, author = {Maslo, B and Schlacher, TA and Weston, MA and Huijbers, CM and Anderson, C and Gilby, BL and Olds, AD and Connolly, RM and Schoeman, DS}, title = {Regional drivers of clutch loss reveal important trade-offs for beach-nesting birds.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {e2460}, pmid = {27672510}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {Coastal birds are critical ecosystem constituents on sandy shores, yet are threatened by depressed reproductive success resulting from direct and indirect anthropogenic and natural pressures. Few studies examine clutch fate across the wide range of environments experienced by birds; instead, most focus at the small site scale. We examine survival of model shorebird clutches as an index of true clutch survival at a regional scale (∼200 km), encompassing a variety of geomorphologies, predator communities, and human use regimes in southeast Queensland, Australia. Of the 132 model nests deployed and monitored with cameras, 45 (34%) survived the experimental exposure period. Thirty-five (27%) were lost to flooding, 32 (24%) were depredated, nine (7%) buried by sand, seven (5%) destroyed by people, three (2%) failed by unknown causes, and one (1%) was destroyed by a dog. Clutch fate differed substantially among regions, particularly with respect to losses from flooding and predation. 'Topographic' exposure was the main driver of mortality of nests placed close to the drift line near the base of dunes, which were lost to waves (particularly during storms) and to a lesser extent depredation. Predators determined the fate of clutches not lost to waves, with the depredation probability largely influenced by region. Depredation probability declined as nests were backed by higher dunes and were placed closer to vegetation. This study emphasizes the scale at which clutch fate and survival varies within a regional context, the prominence of corvids as egg predators, the significant role of flooding as a source of nest loss, and the multiple trade-offs faced by beach-nesting birds and those that manage them.}, }
@article {pmid27668272, year = {2016}, author = {McKay, HS and Bream, JH and Margolick, JB and Martínez-Maza, O and Magpantay, LI and Phair, JP and Rinaldo, CR and Abraham, AG and Jacobson, LP}, title = {Data on serologic inflammatory biomarkers assessed using multiplex assays and host characteristics in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS).}, journal = {Data in brief}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {262-270}, pmid = {27668272}, issn = {2352-3409}, support = {U01 AI035042/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; U01 AI035041/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; UM1 AI035043/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; U01 AI035043/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; UM1 AI068613/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; U01 AI035040/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; U01 AI035039/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {This article contains data on the associations between fixed and modifiable host characteristics and twenty-three biomarkers of inflammation and immune activation measured longitudinally in a cohort of 250 HIV-uninfected men from the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (1984-2009) after adjusting for age, study site, and blood draw time of day using generalized gamma regression. This article also presents associations between each biomarker and each host characteristic in a sample restricted to 2001-2009. These data are supplemental to our original research article entitled "Host factors associated with serologic inflammatory markers assessed using multiplex assays" (McKay, S. Heather, Bream, H. Jay, Margolick, B. Joseph, Martínez-Maza, Otoniel, Phair, P. John, Rinaldo, R. Charles, Abraham, G. Alison, L.P. Jacobson, 2016) [1].}, }
@article {pmid27661428, year = {2016}, author = {Jagdeo, J and Keaney, T and Narurkar, V and Kolodziejczyk, J and Gallagher, CJ}, title = {Facial Treatment Preferences Among Aesthetically Oriented Men.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {42}, number = {10}, pages = {1155-1163}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000000876}, pmid = {27661428}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Choice Behavior ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Esthetics ; *Face ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Rejuvenation ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: There is a paucity of data describing male attitudes toward age-related changes to their facial features and associated preferences for prioritizing treatment.<br><br>METHODS: Injectable-naive but aesthetically oriented men aged 30 to 65 participated in an online study (N = 600). Respondents indicated how concerned they were by the appearance of 15 age-related facial features, and the Maximum Difference scaling system was used to explore which features were most likely to be prioritized for treatment. The correlation between the features of most concern and the areas of treatment priority was assessed. Other aspects regarding the male perspective on aesthetic procedures, such as awareness, motivating factors, and barriers, also were explored.<br><br>RESULTS: Crow's feet and tear troughs were rated as the most likely to be treated first (80% of first preferences) followed by forehead lines (74%), double chin (70%), and glabellar lines (60%). The areas of most concern in order were tear troughs, double chin, crow's feet, and forehead lines. There was a strong correlation between the features of most concern and the areas of treatment priority (r = 0.81).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The periorbital areas, in particular crow's feet and tear troughs, are of most concern and likely to be prioritized for treatment among aesthetically oriented men.}, }
@article {pmid27658204, year = {2016}, author = {Eimes, JA and Lee, SI and Townsend, AK and Jablonski, P and Nishiumi, I and Satta, Y}, title = {Early Duplication of a Single MHC IIB Locus Prior to the Passerine Radiations.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {11}, number = {9}, pages = {e0163456}, pmid = {27658204}, issn = {1932-6203}, abstract = {A key characteristic of MHC genes is the persistence of allelic lineages over macroevolutionary periods, often through multiple speciation events. This phenomenon, known as trans-species polymorphism (TSP), is well documented in several major taxonomic groups, but has less frequently been observed in birds. The order Passeriformes is arguably the most successful terrestrial vertebrate order in terms of diversity of species and ecological range, but the reasons for this success remain unclear. Passerines exhibit the most highly duplicated MHC genes of any major vertebrate taxonomic group, which may generate increased immune response relative to other avian orders with fewer MHC loci. Here, we describe phylogenetic patterns of the MHC IIB in the passerine family Corvidae. Our results indicate wide-spread TSP within this family, with at least four supported MHC IIB allelic lineages that predate speciation by many millions of years. Markov chain Monte Carlo simulations indicate that divergence of these lineages occurred near the time of the divergence of the Passeriformes and other avian orders. We suggest that the current MHC diversity observed in passerines is due in part to the multiple duplication of a single MHC locus, DAB1, early in passerine evolution and that subsequent duplications of these paralogues have contributed to the enormous success of this order by increasing their ability to recognize and mount immune responses to novel pathogens.}, }
@article {pmid27655157, year = {2017}, author = {De Carolis, A and Cipollini, V and Donato, N and Sepe-Monti, M and Orzi, F and Giubilei, F}, title = {Cognitive profiles in degenerative dementia without evidence of small vessel pathology and small vessel vascular dementia.}, journal = {Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology}, volume = {38}, number = {1}, pages = {101-107}, pmid = {27655157}, issn = {1590-3478}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cognition/*physiology ; Dementia/pathology/*psychology ; Dementia, Vascular/pathology/*psychology ; Disease Progression ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neurodegenerative Diseases/pathology/*psychology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {Although a large number of studies have examined possible differences in cognitive performance between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD), the data in the literature are conflicting. The aims of this study were to analyze the neuropsychological pattern of subjects affected by degenerative dementia without evidence of small vessel pathology (DD) and small vessel VaD subjects in the early stages and to investigate differences in the progression of cognitive impairment. Seventy-five patients with probable VaD and 75 patients with probable DD were included. All the subjects underwent a standard neuropsychological evaluation, including the following test: Visual Search, Attentional matrices, Story Recall, Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, Phonological and Semantic Verbal Fluency, Token, and Copying Drawings. The severity of cognitive impairment was stratified according to the MMSE score. Fifteen subjects with probable DD and 10 subjects with probable VaD underwent a 12-month cognitive re-evaluation. No significant difference was found between DD and VaD subjects in any of the neuropsychological tests except Story Recall in the mild cognitive impairment (P < 0.001). The re-test value was significantly worse than the baseline value in the MMSE (P = 0.037), Corsi (P = 0.041), Story Recall (P = 0.032), Phonological Verbal Fluency (P = 0.02), and Copying Drawings (P = 0.043) in DD patients and in the Visual Search test (P = 0.036) in VaD subjects. These results suggest that a neuropsychological evaluation might help to differentiate degenerative dementia without evidence of small vessel pathology from small vessel VaD in the early stages of these diseases.}, }
@article {pmid27644481, year = {2016}, author = {Haapala, EA and Viitasalo, A and Venäläinen, T and Eloranta, AM and Ågren, J and Lindi, V and Lakka, TA}, title = {Plasma polyunsaturated fatty acids are directly associated with cognition in overweight children but not in normal weight children.}, journal = {Acta paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)}, volume = {105}, number = {12}, pages = {1502-1507}, doi = {10.1111/apa.13596}, pmid = {27644481}, issn = {1651-2227}, mesh = {Case-Control Studies ; Child ; *Cognition ; Fatty Acids, Unsaturated/*blood ; Humans ; Overweight/*blood/psychology ; }, abstract = {AIM: Polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential nutrients for the normal development of the brain. We investigated the associations between plasma polyunsaturated fatty acids and cognition in normal weight and overweight children.<br><br>METHODS: The study recruited 386 normal weight children and 58 overweight children aged six to eight years and blood samples were drawn after a 12-hour fast. We assessed plasma polyunsaturated fatty acids using gas chromatography, cognition using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, and overweight and obesity using the age-specific and sex-specific cut-offs from the International Obesity Task Force. The data were analysed by linear regression analyses adjusted for age and sex.<br><br>RESULTS: Higher proportions of eicosapentaenoic acid in plasma triacylglycerols (&#x3b2;&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.311, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.020, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.029 for interaction) and docosahexaenoic acid in plasma triacylglycerols (&#x3b2;&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.281, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.038, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.049 for interaction) were both associated&#xa0;with higher Raven's scores in overweight children but not in normal weight children. Higher eicosapentaenoic acid to arachidonic acid ratios in triacylglycerols (&#x3b2;&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.317, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.019) and phospholipids (&#x3b2;&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.273, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.046) were directly associated with the Raven's score in overweight children but not in normal weight children.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that increasing the consumption of fish and other sources of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid may improve cognition among overweight children.}, }
@article {pmid27639565, year = {2016}, author = {van Horik, JO and Emery, NJ}, title = {Transfer of physical understanding in a non-tool-using parrot.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {19}, number = {6}, pages = {1195-1203}, pmid = {27639565}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition ; *Comprehension ; Cues ; *Parrots ; Passeriformes ; }, abstract = {Physical cognition has generally been assessed in tool-using species that possess a relatively large brain size, such as corvids and apes. Parrots, like corvids and apes, also have large relative brain sizes, yet although parrots rarely use tools in the wild, growing evidence suggests comparable performances on physical cognition tasks. It is, however, unclear whether success on such tasks is facilitated by previous experience and training procedures. We therefore investigated physical comprehension of object relationships in two non-tool-using species of captive neotropical parrots on a new means-end paradigm, the Trap-Gaps task, using unfamiliar materials and modified training procedures that precluded procedural cues. Red-shouldered macaws (Diopsittaca nobilis) and black-headed caiques (Pionites melanocephala) were presented with an initial task that required them to discriminate between pulling food trays through gaps while attending to the respective width of the gaps and size of the trays. Subjects were then presented with a novel, but functionally equivalent, transfer task. Six of eight birds solved the initial task through trial-and-error learning. Four of these six birds solved the transfer task, with one caique demonstrating spontaneous comprehension. These findings suggest that non-tool-using parrots may possess capacities for sophisticated physical cognition by generalising previously learned rules across novel problems.}, }
@article {pmid27637722, year = {2017}, author = {Ogino, T and Hanafusa, K and Morooka, T and Takeuchi, A and Oka, M and Ohtsuka, Y}, title = {Predicting the reading skill of Japanese children.}, journal = {Brain &amp; development}, volume = {39}, number = {2}, pages = {112-121}, doi = {10.1016/j.braindev.2016.08.006}, pmid = {27637722}, issn = {1872-7131}, mesh = {Child ; *Child Language ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Japan ; Language Tests ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term ; *Reading ; Speech Perception ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To clarify cognitive processes underlining the development of reading in children speaking Japanese as their first language, we examined relationships between performances of cognitive tasks in the preschool period and later reading abilities.<br><br>METHODS: Ninety-one normally developing preschoolers (41 girls and 50 boys; 5years 4months to 6years 4months, mean 5years 10months) participated as subjects. We conducted seven cognitive tasks including phonological awareness tasks, naming tasks, and working memory tasks in the preschool period. In terms of reading tasks, the hiragana naming task was administered in the preschool period; the reading times, which is a composite score of the monomoraic syllable reading task, the word and the non-word reading tasks, and the single sentence reading task, was evaluated in first and second grade; and the kanji reading task (naming task) was tested in second grade. Raven's colored progressive matrices and picture vocabulary test revised were also conducted in first grade. Correlation analyses between task scores and stepwise multiple regression analyses were implemented.<br><br>RESULTS: Tasks tapping phonological awareness, lexical access, and verbal working memory showed significant correlations with reading tasks. In the multiple regression analyses the performances in the verbal working memory task played a key role in predicting character naming task scores (the hiragana naming task and the kanji reading task) while the digit naming task was an important predictor of reading times. Unexpectedly, the role of phonological (mora) awareness was modest among children speaking Japanese.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Cognitive functions including phonological awareness, digit naming, and verbal working memory (especially the latter two) were involved in the development of reading skills of children speaking Japanese.}, }
@article {pmid27637174, year = {2017}, author = {Phothong, W and Wanitphakdeedecha, R and Keskool, P and Manuskiatti, W}, title = {A case of dysphagia following botulinum toxin injection for neck rejuvenation.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {16}, number = {1}, pages = {15-17}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.12288}, pmid = {27637174}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*adverse effects ; Deglutition Disorders/*chemically induced ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Neck ; Neuromuscular Agents/*adverse effects ; Rejuvenation ; Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {Botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) is now extensively employed for cosmetic concerns. Upper face rejuvenation, including glabella frown lines and crow's feet lines, received FDA approval for cosmetic uses. However, other off-label uses for lower face conditions have been employed for texture and contouring purposes, including masseter hypertrophy and vertical banding of the neck. BTX-A for rejuvenation of the aging neck is an effective and popular treatment with high patient satisfaction rates. Alleviating the aging appearance of the neck by BTX-A is the result of denervation of hyperkinetic platysma. Concerning an extensive area of treatment and the relationship of treated muscles with other nearby muscles, dermatologists should be aware of potential adverse effects of the BTX-A injection. We herein present a case of dysphagia following botulinum toxin injection for the treatment of platysma bands.}, }
@article {pmid27631734, year = {2016}, author = {Furtado, K and Banks, KH}, title = {A Research Agenda for Racial Equity: Applications of the Ferguson Commission Report to Public Health.}, journal = {American journal of public health}, volume = {106}, number = {11}, pages = {1926-1931}, pmid = {27631734}, issn = {1541-0048}, mesh = {*Health Policy ; Health Status Disparities ; Human Rights ; Humans ; Law Enforcement/methods ; *Public Health ; *Racism ; *Residence Characteristics ; Schools/organization &amp; administration ; *Social Justice ; }, abstract = {The Ferguson Commission was an independent body of 16 commissioners in operation from November 2014 to December 2015 and appointed by Missouri governor Jay Nixon to examine the root causes underlying the death of Michael Brown Jr. Its report, "Forward Through Ferguson: A Path Toward Racial Equity," raises many issues on racial equity that public health is well suited to address, such as trends in police use of force, the health implications of the school-based discipline gap, and the health benefits of a coordinated housing strategy. Public health can also learn from the principles the commission adopted, including being unflinching in the questions asked and conclusions drawn, applying a racial equity lens to public health work, and moving beyond programmatic solutions to policy solutions.}, }
@article {pmid27629645, year = {2016}, author = {Rutz, C and Klump, BC and Komarczyk, L and Leighton, R and Kramer, J and Wischnewski, S and Sugasawa, S and Morrissey, MB and James, R and St Clair, JJ and Switzer, RA and Masuda, BM}, title = {Discovery of species-wide tool use in the Hawaiian crow.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {537}, number = {7620}, pages = {403-407}, pmid = {27629645}, issn = {1476-4687}, mesh = {Aging ; Animals ; Animals, Zoo/physiology ; Biological Evolution ; Cognition ; Crows/classification/*physiology ; Female ; Hawaii ; Male ; Phylogeny ; Species Specificity ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Only a handful of bird species are known to use foraging tools in the wild. Amongst them, the New Caledonian crow (Corvus moneduloides) stands out with its sophisticated tool-making skills. Despite considerable speculation, the evolutionary origins of this species' remarkable tool behaviour remain largely unknown, not least because no naturally tool-using congeners have yet been identified that would enable informative comparisons. Here we show that another tropical corvid, the 'Alalā (C. hawaiiensis; Hawaiian crow), is a highly dexterous tool user. Although the 'Alalā became extinct in the wild in the early 2000s, and currently survives only in captivity, at least two lines of evidence suggest that tool use is part of the species' natural behavioural repertoire: juveniles develop functional tool use without training, or social input from adults; and proficient tool use is a species-wide capacity. 'Alalā and New Caledonian crows evolved in similar environments on remote tropical islands, yet are only distantly related, suggesting that their technical abilities arose convergently. This supports the idea that avian foraging tool use is facilitated by ecological conditions typical of islands, such as reduced competition for embedded prey and low predation risk. Our discovery creates exciting opportunities for comparative research on multiple tool-using and non-tool-using corvid species. Such work will in turn pave the way for replicated cross-taxonomic comparisons with the primate lineage, enabling valuable insights into the evolutionary origins of tool-using behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid27602972, year = {2016}, author = {Draelos, ZD and Kononov, T and Fox, T}, title = {An Open Label Clinical Trial of a Peptide Treatment Serum and Supporting Regimen Designed to Improve the Appearance of Aging Facial Skin.}, journal = {Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD}, volume = {15}, number = {9}, pages = {1100-1106}, pmid = {27602972}, issn = {1545-9616}, mesh = {Administration, Topical ; Adult ; *Face/pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Peptide Fragments/*administration &amp; dosage ; *Self-Assessment ; Skin Aging/*drug effects/pathology ; Skin Cream/*administration &amp; dosage ; Treatment Outcome ; gamma-Aminobutyric Acid/*administration &amp; dosage ; }, abstract = {A 14-week single-center clinical usage study was conducted to test the efficacy of a peptide treatment serum and supporting skincare regimen in 29 women with mild to moderately photodamaged facial skin. The peptide treatment serum contained gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and various peptides with neurotransmitter inhibiting and cell signaling properties. It was hypothesized that the peptide treatment serum would ameliorate eye and facial expression lines including crow's feet and forehead lines. The efficacy of the supporting skincare regimen was also evaluated. An expert investigator examined the subjects at rest and at maximum smile. Additionally, the subjects completed self-assessment questionnaires. At week 14, the expert investigator found a statistically significant improvement in facial lines, facial wrinkles, eye lines, and eye wrinkles at rest when compared to baseline results. The expert investigator also found statistically significant improvement at week 14 in facial lines, eye lines, and eye wrinkles when compared to baseline results at maximum smile. In addition, there was continued highly statistically significant improvement in smoothness, softness, firmness, radiance, luminosity, and overall appearance at rest when compared to baseline results at the 14-week time point. The test regimen was well perceived by the subjects for efficacy and product attributes. The products were well tolerated with no adverse events. <br /><br /> <em>J Drugs Dermatol.</em> 2016;15(9):1100-1106.}, }
@article {pmid27584142, year = {2017}, author = {de Oliveira, RT and Felippe, LA and Bucken Gobbi, LT and Barbieri, FA and Christofoletti, G}, title = {Benefits of Exercise on the Executive Functions in People with Parkinson Disease: A Controlled Clinical Trial.}, journal = {American journal of physical medicine &amp; rehabilitation}, volume = {96}, number = {5}, pages = {301-306}, doi = {10.1097/PHM.0000000000000612}, pmid = {27584142}, issn = {1537-7385}, mesh = {Aged ; *Executive Function ; *Exercise ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/*rehabilitation ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: We have made a 3-arm trial (group vs. individual exercise vs. no treatment) to test the effects of a 6-month exercise program upon the executive functions in participants with Parkinson disease.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty-four subjects were randomly allocated in 3 groups and undertook individualized exercises (G1, n = 8), group exercises (G2, n = 8), or monitoring (G3, n = 8). Executive functions were evaluated by means of the Wisconsin card sorting test and the Raven colored matrices, both assessed at the beginning of the program and after 6 months. The statistical analyses consisted of the application of repeated measurement tests, with a significant level of 5%.<br><br>RESULTS: The findings showed similar behavior of groups in terms of the Wisconsin card sorting test (P = 0.792), reporting no benefit of the program on such instrument. Differently, Raven colored matrices evidenced a significant benefit provided by the intervention (P = 0.032). Compared with the control group, individuals from G1 had a substantial improvement on executive functions (P = 0.031) and from G2 had a trend of significance (P = 0.072).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Findings of this study show that 6 months of exercise improved some aspects of executive functions when compared with control peers. Individual therapy seems to have a more prominent improvement than group therapy.}, }
@article {pmid27573634, year = {2016}, author = {Kuong, K and Fiorentino, M and Perignon, M and Chamnan, C and Berger, J and Sinuon, M and Molyden, V and Burja, K and Parker, M and Ly, SC and Friis, H and Roos, N and Wieringa, FT}, title = {Cognitive Performance and Iron Status are Negatively Associated with Hookworm Infection in Cambodian Schoolchildren.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {95}, number = {4}, pages = {856-863}, pmid = {27573634}, issn = {1476-1645}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Anemia, Iron-Deficiency/complications/metabolism/*psychology ; Ascariasis/complications/metabolism/psychology ; Cambodia ; Child ; *Cognition ; Cognitive Dysfunction/complications/metabolism/*psychology ; Coinfection ; Female ; Ferritins/*metabolism ; Hemoglobins/metabolism ; Hookworm Infections/complications/metabolism/*psychology ; Humans ; Iron/*metabolism ; Iron Deficiencies ; Linear Models ; Male ; Receptors, Transferrin/*metabolism ; Severity of Illness Index ; Social Class ; Taeniasis/complications/metabolism/psychology ; Trichuriasis/complications/metabolism/psychology ; Vitamin A/metabolism ; Zinc/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infection has been associated with lower cognitive performance of schoolchildren. To identify pathways through which STH infection might affect school performance, baseline data from a large rice-fortification trial in Cambodian schoolchildren were used to investigate associations between STH infection, micronutrient status, anemia, and cognitive performance. Complete data on anthropometry, cognitive performance, and micronutrient status were available for 1,760 schoolchildren, 6-16 years of age. STH infection was identified using Kato-Katz, whereas cognitive performance was assessed using Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM), block design, and picture completion. STH infection was found in 18% of the children; almost exclusively hookwork infection. After adjusting for age and gender, raw cognitive test scores were significantly lower in hookworm-infected children (-0.65; -0.78; -2.03 points for picture completion, RCPM, and block design, respectively; P < 0.05 for all). Hookworm infection was associated with iron status (total body iron), but not with vitamin A and zinc status, nor with inflammation or anthropometry. Body iron was negatively associated with increased intensity of hookworm infection (R = 0.22, P < 0.001). Hookworm infection in Cambodian schoolchildren was associated with lower cognitive performance, an effect most likely mediated through lower body iron. Interventions that are more effective against hookworm infection are needed to contribute to better health and improvement of cognitive performance.}, }
@article {pmid27559324, year = {2016}, author = {Hanaki, N and Jacquemet, N and Luchini, S and Zylbersztejn, A}, title = {Fluid Intelligence and Cognitive Reflection in a Strategic Environment: Evidence from Dominance-Solvable Games.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {1188}, pmid = {27559324}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Dominance solvability is one of the most straightforward solution concepts in game theory. It is based on two principles: dominance (according to which players always use their dominant strategy) and iterated dominance (according to which players always act as if others apply the principle of dominance). However, existing experimental evidence questions the empirical accuracy of dominance solvability. In this study, we study the relationships between the key facets of dominance solvability and two cognitive skills, cognitive reflection, and fluid intelligence. We provide evidence that the behaviors in accordance with dominance and one-step iterated dominance are both predicted by one's fluid intelligence rather than cognitive reflection. Individual cognitive skills, however, only explain a small fraction of the observed failure of dominance solvability. The accuracy of theoretical predictions on strategic decision making thus not only depends on individual cognitive characteristics, but also, perhaps more importantly, on the decision making environment itself.}, }
@article {pmid27558865, year = {2017}, author = {Dolar Bilge, A and Sadigov, F and Salar-Gomceli, S}, title = {Sixth nerve palsy following botulinum toxin injection for facial rejuvenation.}, journal = {Cutaneous and ocular toxicology}, volume = {36}, number = {2}, pages = {193-194}, doi = {10.1080/15569527.2016.1227989}, pmid = {27558865}, issn = {1556-9535}, mesh = {Abducens Nerve Diseases/*chemically induced ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; Cosmetic Techniques/*adverse effects ; Face/innervation ; Female ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular/adverse effects ; Injections, Subcutaneous ; Medication Errors/*adverse effects ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; Prospective Studies ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *Rejuvenation ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin A (BTX) has been widely used for a variety of facial esthetic procedures within the last couple of decades. Efficacy and safety of BTX for facial rejuvenation has been extensively studied in multiple randomized prospective controlled trials. Focal weakness is among the most commonly reported adverse effects. Adverse reactions tend to occur most commonly due to errors in dosing formulation and errors with the techniques of the application. No serious long-term complications have been reported.<br><br>MAIN OBSERVATION: We present the case of a 52-year-old female presenting with diplopia one week following the injection of BTX for facial rejuvenation at glabella, forehead and crow's feet areas.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Injection of BTX adjacent to periorbital area may be associated with extra-ocular muscle paralysis.}, }
@article {pmid27548738, year = {2016}, author = {Dietrich, EA and Langevin, SA and Huang, CY and Maharaj, PD and Delorey, MJ and Bowen, RA and Kinney, RM and Brault, AC}, title = {West Nile Virus Temperature Sensitivity and Avian Virulence Are Modulated by NS1-2B Polymorphisms.}, journal = {PLoS neglected tropical diseases}, volume = {10}, number = {8}, pages = {e0004938}, pmid = {27548738}, issn = {1935-2735}, support = {R01 AI061822/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 CI000235/CI/NCPDCID CDC HHS/United States ; U54 AI065359/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/virology ; Birds/*virology ; Kenya/epidemiology ; Mutation ; North America/epidemiology ; *Polymorphism, Genetic ; Temperature ; Viral Nonstructural Proteins/*genetics ; Viremia ; Virulence/genetics ; Virus Replication ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/virology ; West Nile virus/*genetics/*pathogenicity/physiology ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) replicates in a wide variety of avian species, which serve as reservoir and amplification hosts. WNV strains isolated in North America, such as the prototype strain NY99, elicit a highly pathogenic response in certain avian species, notably American crows (AMCRs; Corvus brachyrhynchos). In contrast, a closely related strain, KN3829, isolated in Kenya, exhibits a low viremic response with limited mortality in AMCRs. Previous work has associated the difference in pathogenicity primarily with a single amino acid mutation at position 249 in the helicase domain of the NS3 protein. The NY99 strain encodes a proline residue at this position, while KN3829 encodes a threonine. Introduction of an NS3-T249P mutation in the KN3829 genetic background significantly increased virulence and mortality; however, peak viremia and mortality were lower than those of NY99. In order to elucidate the viral genetic basis for phenotype variations exclusive of the NS3-249 polymorphism, chimeric NY99/KN3829 viruses were created. We show herein that differences in the NS1-2B region contribute to avian pathogenicity in a manner that is independent of and additive with the NS3-249 mutation. Additionally, NS1-2B residues were found to alter temperature sensitivity when grown in avian cells.}, }
@article {pmid27546698, year = {2016}, author = {Furdova, A and Horkovicova, K and Justusova, P and Sramka, M}, title = {Is it sufficient to repeat LINEAR accelerator stereotactic radiosurgery in choroidal melanoma?.}, journal = {Bratislavske lekarske listy}, volume = {117}, number = {8}, pages = {456-462}, doi = {10.4149/bll_2016_089}, pmid = {27546698}, issn = {0006-9248}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Choroid Neoplasms/pathology/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Melanoma/pathology/*surgery ; Middle Aged ; Optic Nerve ; *Particle Accelerators ; Radiosurgery/*methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Retrospective Studies ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; Treatment Outcome ; Tumor Burden ; Uveal Neoplasms/pathology/*surgery ; Uveal Melanoma ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: One day session LINAC based stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) at LINAC accelerator is a method of "conservative" attitude to treat the intraocular malignant uveal melanoma.<br><br>METHODS: We used model Clinac 600 C/D Varian (system Aria, planning system Corvus version 6.2 verification IMRT OmniPro) with 6 MeV X by rigid immobilization of the eye to the Leibinger frame. The stereotactic treatment planning after fusion of CT and MRI was optimized according to the critical structures (lens, optic nerve, also lens and optic nerve at the contralateral side, chiasm). The first plan was compared and the best plan was applied for therapy at C LINAC accelerator. The planned therapeutic dose was 35.0 Gy by 99 % of DVH (dose volume histogram).<br><br>RESULTS: In our clinical study in the group of 125 patients with posterior uveal melanoma treated with SRS, in 2 patients (1.6 %) was repeated SRS indicated. Patient age of the whole group ranged from 25 to 81 years with a median of 54 TD was 35.0 Gy. In 2 patients after 5 year interval after stereotactic radiosurgery for uveal melanoma stage T1, the tumor volume increased to 50 % of the primary tumor volume and repeated SRS was necessary.<br><br>CONCLUSION: To find out the changes in melanoma characteristics after SRS in long term interval after irradiation is necessary to follow up the patient by an ophthalmologist regularly. One step LINAC based stereotactic radiosurgery with a single dose 35.0 Gy is one of treatment options to treat T1 to T3 stage posterior uveal melanoma and to preserve the eye globe. In some cases it is possible to repeat the SRS after more than 5 year interval (Fig. 8, Ref. 23).}, }
@article {pmid27546381, year = {2016}, author = {Tella, JL and Dénes, FV and Zulian, V and Prestes, NP and Martínez, J and Blanco, G and Hiraldo, F}, title = {Endangered plant-parrot mutualisms: seed tolerance to predation makes parrots pervasive dispersers of the Parana pine.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {31709}, pmid = {27546381}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Brazil ; *Ecosystem ; Endangered Species ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Geography ; Parrots/*physiology ; Pinus/*physiology ; *Seed Dispersal ; Seeds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Parrots are largely considered plant antagonists as they usually destroy the seeds they feed on. However, there is evidence that parrots may also act as seed dispersers. We evaluated the dual role of parrots as predators and dispersers of the Critically Endangered Parana pine (Araucaria angustifolia). Eight of nine parrot species predated seeds from 48% of 526 Parana pines surveyed. Observations of the commonest parrot indicated that 22.5% of the picked seeds were dispersed by carrying them in their beaks. Another five parrot species dispersed seeds, at an estimated average distance of c. 250 m. Dispersal distances did not differ from those observed in jays, considered the main avian dispersers. Contrary to jays, parrots often dropped partially eaten seeds. Most of these seeds were handled by parrots, and the proportion of partially eaten seeds that germinated was higher than that of undamaged seeds. This may be explained by a predator satiation effect, suggesting that the large seeds of the Parana pine evolved to attract consumers for dispersal. This represents a thus far overlooked key plant-parrot mutualism, in which both components are threatened with extinction. The interaction is becoming locally extinct long before the global extinction of the species involved.}, }
@article {pmid27545961, year = {2016}, author = {Heiz, J and Barisnikov, K}, title = {Visual-motor integration, visual perception and motor coordination in a population with Williams syndrome and in typically developing children.}, journal = {Journal of intellectual disability research : JIDR}, volume = {60}, number = {10}, pages = {945-955}, doi = {10.1111/jir.12328}, pmid = {27545961}, issn = {1365-2788}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Child ; Child Development/*physiology ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Williams Syndrome/*physiopathology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Williams syndrome (WS) is characterised by severe deficits in visual-spatial abilities in contrast to relatively well-developed language abilities. There is very limited knowledge about visual-motor integration (VMI) in people with WS.<br><br>METHOD: Twenty-six participants with WS aged 6 to 41&#x2009;years were assessed with all three tests of the Beery-VMI test, namely the VMI test, the visual perception test (VP) and the motor coordination test (MC). Their results were compared with those of 154 typically developing children (TD) aged 4 to 12.<br><br>RESULTS: No influence of age on the three tested abilities was found amongst the participants with WS in comparison with the TD children. The participants with WS scored similarly to the 5-year-old TD children in all three tasks; their scores on the VMI correlated with the results on the VP and MC tests, which were similar to those of the TD children. Finally, the scores on the non-verbal intelligence test (Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices) were highly predictive of the scores in the VMI and VP tests and partially explain the variance in the MC scores.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The present study is the first to use all three tasks of the Beery-VMI test. For the TD children, the performances on the three subtests did not show the same developmental trajectory. In contrast, the participants with WS did not show the same developmental trajectory. The participants with WS exhibited poor performances on all tasks with scores comparable with the 5-year-old TD children. As high correlations between these abilities were observed, improving VP and MC could help the development of VMI, which in turn could improve visual-spatial abilities in individuals with WS.}, }
@article {pmid27543758, year = {2016}, author = {Zarza, E and Faircloth, BC and Tsai, WL and Bryson, RW and Klicka, J and McCormack, JE}, title = {Hidden histories of gene flow in highland birds revealed with genomic markers.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {25}, number = {20}, pages = {5144-5157}, doi = {10.1111/mec.13813}, pmid = {27543758}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; *Gene Flow ; *Genetic Speciation ; *Genetics, Population ; Genomics ; Mexico ; Models, Genetic ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Phylogeny ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Genomic studies are revealing that divergence and speciation are marked by gene flow, but it is not clear whether gene flow has played a prominent role during the generation of biodiversity in species-rich regions of the world where vicariance is assumed to be the principal mode by which new species form. We revisit a well-studied organismal system in the Mexican Highlands, Aphelocoma jays, to test for gene flow among Mexican sierras. Prior results from mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) largely conformed to the standard model of allopatric divergence, although there was also evidence for more obscure histories of gene flow in a small sample of nuclear markers. We tested for these 'hidden histories' using genomic markers known as ultraconserved elements (UCEs) in concert with phylogenies, clustering algorithms and newer introgression tests specifically designed to detect ancient gene flow (e.g. ABBA/BABA tests). Results based on 4303 UCE loci and 2500 informative SNPs are consistent with varying degrees of gene flow among highland areas. In some cases, gene flow has been extensive and recent (although perhaps not ongoing today), whereas in other cases there is only a trace signature of ancient gene flow among species that diverged as long as 5 million years ago. These results show how a species complex thought to be a model for vicariance can reveal a more reticulate history when a broader portion of the genome is queried. As more organisms are studied with genomic data, we predict that speciation-with-bouts-of-gene-flow will turn out to be a common mode of speciation.}, }
@article {pmid27541152, year = {2016}, author = {Janaydeh, M and Ismail, A and Zulkifli, SZ and Bejo, MH and Aziz, NA and Taneenah, A}, title = {The use of feather as an indicator for heavy metal contamination in house crow (Corvus splendens) in the Klang area, Selangor, Malaysia.}, journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international}, volume = {23}, number = {21}, pages = {22059-22071}, pmid = {27541152}, issn = {1614-7499}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Crows/*metabolism ; Environmental Monitoring/*methods ; Environmental Pollutants/*analysis ; Feathers/*chemistry ; Female ; Malaysia ; Male ; Metals, Heavy/*analysis ; Sex Factors ; Spectrophotometry, Atomic ; }, abstract = {The Klang area of Peninsular Malaysia has experienced rapid industrial growth with intense activities, which can increase the concentration of pollutants in the environment that significantly impact on habitats and the human health. The purpose of this study was to determine the levels of selected heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Ni, Fe, and Pb) in the heart, lung, brain, liver, kidney, muscle tissues, and feathers of house crow, Corvus splendens, in Klang, Peninsular Malaysia. House crow samples were collected from the Klang area through the Department of Public Health at Majlis Perbandaran Klang. Quantitative determination of heavy metals was carried out using atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The result shows the presence of heavy metals in all biological samples of house crows. For heavy metals in all the house crow tissues analyzed, Fe concentrations were the highest, followed by those of Zn, Cu, Pb, and Ni. The feathers and kidney accumulated high concentrations of Pb, whereas the liver accumulated high concentrations of essential heavy metals (Fe > Zn > Cu > Ni). Significant variations were also detected in the concentrations of Pb among adult and juvenile and male and female bird samples. The results also revealed significant positive correlations between Pb metal concentration in the breast feathers and all internal organs. Accumulation of toxic heavy metals in feathers reflected storing and elimination processes, while the accumulation of toxic heavy metals in the kidney can be consequential to chronic exposure. The present study clearly shows the usefulness of house crow breast feather as a suitable indicator for heavy metal accumulation in the internal organs of house crows in the Klang area.}, }
@article {pmid27540060, year = {2016}, author = {Nelson, RL and Castro, MA and Katti, M and Eisen, JA and Van Laar, TA}, title = {Genome Sequence of a Multidrug-Resistant Strain of Bacillus pumilus, CB01, Isolated from the Feces of an American Crow, Corvus brachyrhynchos.}, journal = {Genome announcements}, volume = {4}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {27540060}, issn = {2169-8287}, abstract = {Avian species have the potential to serve as important reservoirs for the spread of pathogenic microorganisms. Here, we report the genome sequence of a drug-resistant strain of Bacillus pumilus, CB01, isolated from the feces of an American crow, Corvus brachyrhynchos.}, }
@article {pmid27535065, year = {2017}, author = {ErEl, H and Meiran, N}, title = {A drop in performance on a fluid intelligence test due to instructed-rule mindset.}, journal = {Psychological research}, volume = {81}, number = {5}, pages = {901-909}, pmid = {27535065}, issn = {1430-2772}, mesh = {Educational Measurement/*methods ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {A 'mindset' is a configuration of processing resources that are made available for the task at hand as well as their suitable tuning for carrying it out. Of special interest, remote-relation abstract mindsets are introduced by activities sharing only general control processes with the task. To test the effect of a remote-relation mindset on performance on a Fluid Intelligence test (Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices, RAPM), we induced a mindset associated with little usage of executive processing by requiring participants to execute a well-defined classification rule 12 times, a manipulation known from previous work to drastically impair rule-generation performance and associated cognitive processes. In Experiment 1, this manipulation led to a drop in RAPM performance equivalent to 10.1 IQ points. No drop was observed in a General Knowledge task. In Experiment 2, a similar drop in RAPM performance was observed (equivalent to 7.9 and 9.2 IQ points) regardless if participants were pre-informed about the upcoming RAPM test. These results indicate strong (most likely, transient) adverse effects of a remote-relation mindset on test performance. They imply that although the trait of Fluid Intelligence has probably not changed, mindsets can severely distort estimates of this trait.}, }
@article {pmid27533282, year = {2016}, author = {Audet, JN and Ducatez, S and Lefebvre, L}, title = {Bajan Birds Pull Strings: Two Wild Antillean Species Enter the Select Club of String-Pullers.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {11}, number = {8}, pages = {e0156112}, pmid = {27533282}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Barbados ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; *Cognition ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Problem Solving ; Reward ; }, abstract = {String-pulling is one of the most popular tests in animal cognition because of its apparent complexity, and of its potential to be applied to very different taxa. In birds, the basic procedure involves a food reward, suspended from a perch by a string, which can be reached by a series of coordinated pulling actions with the beak and holding actions of the pulled lengths of string with the foot. The taxonomic distribution of species that pass the test includes several corvids, parrots and parids, but in other families, data are much spottier and the number of individuals per species that succeed is often low. To date, the association between string-pulling ability and other cognitive traits was never tested. It is generally assumed that string-pulling is a complex form of problem-solving, suggesting that performance on string-pulling and other problem-solving tasks should be correlated. Here, we show that individuals of two innovative species from Barbados, the bullfinch Loxigilla barbadensis and the Carib grackle Quiscalus lugubris fortirostris, pass the string-pulling test. Eighteen of the 42 bullfinches tested succeeded, allowing us to correlate performance on this test to that on several other behavioral measurements. Surprisingly, string-pulling in bullfinches was unrelated to shyness, neophobia, problem-solving, discrimination and reversal learning performance. Only two of 31 grackles tested succeeded, precluding correlational analyses with other measures but still, the two successful birds largely differed in their other behavioral traits.}, }
@article {pmid27529809, year = {2016}, author = {Jay, J and Buse, K and Hart, M and Wilson, D and Marten, R and Kellerman, S and Odetoyinbo, M and Quick, JD and Evans, T and Piot, P and Dybul, M and Binagwaho, A}, title = {Building from the HIV Response toward Universal Health Coverage.}, journal = {PLoS medicine}, volume = {13}, number = {8}, pages = {e1002083}, pmid = {27529809}, issn = {1549-1676}, mesh = {Developing Countries ; Global Health ; HIV Infections/*therapy ; Health Expenditures ; Health Policy ; Health Priorities ; Healthcare Financing ; Human Rights ; Humans ; Politics ; Rwanda ; Social Determinants of Health ; *Universal Health Insurance ; }, abstract = {Jonathan Jay and colleagues draw lessons from the the global HIV response that could help guide the universal health coverage movement.}, }
@article {pmid27524823, year = {2016}, author = {Durden, LA and Beckmen, KB and Gerlach, RF}, title = {New Records of Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) From Dogs, Cats, Humans, and Some Wild Vertebrates in Alaska: Invasion Potential.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {53}, number = {6}, pages = {1391-1395}, doi = {10.1093/jme/tjw128}, pmid = {27524823}, issn = {1938-2928}, mesh = {Alaska ; *Animal Distribution ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/parasitology ; *Birds ; Cat Diseases/parasitology ; Cats ; Dog Diseases/parasitology ; Dogs ; Female ; Humans ; *Introduced Species ; Ixodidae/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; Larva/growth &amp; development/physiology ; Male ; *Mammals ; Nymph/growth &amp; development/physiology ; Tick Infestations/parasitology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {During 2010-2016, tick specimens were solicited from veterinarians, biologists, and members of the public in Alaska. Eight species of ticks were recorded from domestic dogs. Some ticks were collected from dogs with recent travel histories to other countries or other U.S. states, which appears to explain records of ticks not native to Alaska such as Amblyomma americanum (L.) (lone star tick), Ixodes scapularis (Say) (blacklegged tick), and Ixodes ricinus (L.). However, we recorded Dermacentor variabilis (Say) (American dog tick) from dogs (and humans) both with and without travel history, suggesting that this nonindigenous tick could be establishing populations in Alaska. Other ticks commonly recorded from dogs included the indigenous Ixodes angustus Neumann and the invasive Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Latreille) (brown dog tick). Domestic cats were only parasitized by one tick species, the native I. angustus Six species of ticks were recorded from humans: A. americanum (with and without travel history), Dermacentor andersoni Stiles (Rocky Mountain wood tick; travel associated), D. variabilis (with and without travel history), Haemaphysalis leporispalustris (Packard) (rabbit tick, native to Alaska), I. angustus, and R. sanguineus. Ixodes angustus predominated among tick collections from native mammals. Also, Ixodes texanus Banks (first record from Alaska) was collected from an American marten, Martes americana (Turton), H. leporispalustris was recorded from a snowshoe hare, Lepus americanus Erxleben, and Ixodes auritulus Neumann was collected from a Northwestern crow, Corvus caurinus Baird. The establishment of D. variabilis, D. andersoni, A. americanum, and/or I. scapularis in Alaska would have strong implications for animal and human health.}, }
@article {pmid27503195, year = {2017}, author = {Magnotti, JF and Wright, AA and Leonard, K and Katz, JS and Kelly, DM}, title = {Abstract-concept learning in Black-billed magpies (Pica hudsonia).}, journal = {Psychonomic bulletin &amp; review}, volume = {24}, number = {2}, pages = {431-435}, pmid = {27503195}, issn = {1531-5320}, mesh = {Animals ; Appetitive Behavior ; *Birds ; *Concept Formation ; *Conditioning, Psychological ; *Discrimination Learning ; Female ; Male ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Transfer, Psychology ; }, abstract = {relational concepts depend upon relationships between stimuli (e.g., same vs. different) and transcend features of the training stimuli. Recent evidence shows that learning abstract concepts is shared across a variety species including birds. Our recent work with a highly-skilled food-storing bird, Clark's nutcracker, revealed superior same/different abstract-concept learning compared to rhesus monkeys, capuchin monkeys, and pigeons. Here we test a more social, but less reliant on food-storing, corvid species, the Black-billed magpie (Pica hudsonia). We used the same procedures and training exemplars (eight pairs of the same rule, and 56 pairs of the different rule) as were used to test the other species. Magpies (n = 10) showed a level of abstract-concept learning that was equivalent to nutcrackers and greater than the primates and pigeons tested with these same exemplars. These findings suggest that superior initial abstract-concept learning abilities may be shared across corvids generally, rather than confined to those strongly reliant on spatial memory.}, }
@article {pmid27499485, year = {2016}, author = {Capron, AM}, title = {Henry Knowles Beecher, Jay Katz, and the Transformation of Research with Human Beings.}, journal = {Perspectives in biology and medicine}, volume = {59}, number = {1}, pages = {55-77}, doi = {10.1353/pbm.2016.0025}, pmid = {27499485}, issn = {1529-8795}, mesh = {Bioethical Issues ; Bioethics/*history ; Biomedical Research/*ethics/*history ; History, 20th Century ; Human Experimentation/*ethics/*history ; Humans ; Informed Consent/ethics/history ; Morals ; National Socialism/history ; Policy ; Research Personnel/*ethics ; United States ; }, abstract = {The modern history of experimentation with human beings is notable for its ethical lacunae, when even the clearest directives fail to prevent violations of subjects' rights and welfare. One such lacuna occurred during the 25 years between 1947, when the Nuremberg Code was articulated in the judgment passed on the men who had performed medical experiments in the Nazi concentration camps, and 1972, when the revelation of the 40-year-long Tuskegee Syphilis Study shocked the public and pushed Congress to adopt legislation that eventually transformed the governance of human subjects research. The work that Henry Beecher and Jay Katz did on the ethics of human experimentation beginning in 1964-which was mutually supportive but also divergent in its premises and prescriptions-played a prominent role in the policy-making processes. Beecher, whose detailed disclosure of the ethical lapses of leading researchers in his renowned 1966 New England Journal of Medicine article initiated the policy reform process, proved less influential in shaping those reforms than Katz. Ultimately, Beecher was one of the last and best exemplars of "medical ethics," while Katz-in his service on the Tuskegee Syphilis Study Ad Hoc Advisory Panel and in his testimony before, and work with, the Senate Health subcommittee-was an early practitioner of bioethics, a field in which the rules are not all written and applied by the medical profession but arise through a messier process involving outsiders and formal regulatory decisions.}, }
@article {pmid27495260, year = {2016}, author = {Jia, Z and Lu, H and Yang, X and Jin, X and Wu, R and Zhao, J and Chen, L and Qi, Z}, title = {Adverse Events of Botulinum Toxin Type A in Facial Rejuvenation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {40}, number = {5}, pages = {769-777}, doi = {10.1007/s00266-016-0682-1}, pmid = {27495260}, issn = {1432-5241}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Face ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Neuromuscular Agents/*adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Patient Safety ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Rejuvenation/*physiology ; Risk Assessment ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) is a medical product that is used widely in cosmetics, and concern over the safety profile has increased among injectors and patients.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The purpose was to enhance the statistical effect size using a meta-analysis to detect the incidence rate of adverse events (AEs) in the treatment of facial wrinkles.<br><br>METHODS: A systematic search was performed for randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials published through July 2015.<br><br>RESULTS: We searched 16 trials, including 42,405 individual participants, and found that in all enrolled facial rejuvenation studies, patients in the BTX-A group had significantly more AEs than those patients in the placebo group (RR&#xa0;=&#xa0;1.24; 95&#xa0;% CI 1.07-1.43; p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.003). For crow's feet lines injection analysis, the BTX-A group did not exhibit any significant increase in AEs compared with the control group (RR&#xa0;=&#xa0;1.19; 95&#xa0;% CI 0.96-1.48; p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.12), except in injection site hematoma (RR&#xa0;=&#xa0;2.14; 95&#xa0;% CI 1.13-4.07; p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.02) in the treatment group. For frown wrinkle injection analysis, AEs were significantly observed in the BTX-A group (RR&#xa0;=&#xa0;1.47; 95&#xa0;% CI 1.23-1.77; p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.0001), particularly headaches (RR&#xa0;=&#xa0;1.53; 95&#xa0;% CI 1.15-2.03; p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.003), eyelid ptosis (RR&#xa0;=&#xa0;5.56; 95&#xa0;% CI 1.68-18.38; p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.005), and heavy eyelids (RR&#xa0;=&#xa0;6.94; 95&#xa0;% CI 1.27-37.93; p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.03).<br><br>CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis confirmed the safety profile of BTX-A for glabellar and crow's feet lines, and BTX-A usage for the removal of upper facial wrinkles, which have some significant mild-to-moderate adverse profiles, including headache, eye disorder, eyelid ptosis, and heavy eyelids. Facial injectors should abide by the technical standards of neurotoxic drugs and be familiar with the local pharmacological effects to lessen the severe side effects.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE I: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the A5 online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .}, }
@article {pmid27493780, year = {2016}, author = {Kulahci, IG and Rubenstein, DI and Bugnyar, T and Hoppitt, W and Mikus, N and Schwab, C}, title = {Social networks predict selective observation and information spread in ravens.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {3}, number = {7}, pages = {160256}, pmid = {27493780}, issn = {2054-5703}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Animals are predicted to selectively observe and learn from the conspecifics with whom they share social connections. Yet, hardly anything is known about the role of different connections in observation and learning. To address the relationships between social connections, observation and learning, we investigated transmission of information in two raven (Corvus corax) groups. First, we quantified social connections in each group by constructing networks on affiliative interactions, aggressive interactions and proximity. We then seeded novel information by training one group member on a novel task and allowing others to observe. In each group, an observation network based on who observed whose task-solving behaviour was strongly correlated with networks based on affiliative interactions and proximity. Ravens with high social centrality (strength, eigenvector, information centrality) in the affiliative interaction network were also central in the observation network, possibly as a result of solving the task sooner. Network-based diffusion analysis revealed that the order that ravens first solved the task was best predicted by connections in the affiliative interaction network in a group of subadult ravens, and by social rank and kinship (which influenced affiliative interactions) in a group of juvenile ravens. Our results demonstrate that not all social connections are equally effective at predicting the patterns of selective observation and information transmission.}, }
@article {pmid27478138, year = {2016}, author = {Taufique, SK and Kumar, V}, title = {Differential activation and tyrosine hydroxylase distribution in the hippocampal, pallial and midbrain brain regions in response to cognitive performance in Indian house crows exposed to abrupt light environment.}, journal = {Behavioural brain research}, volume = {314}, number = {}, pages = {21-29}, doi = {10.1016/j.bbr.2016.07.046}, pmid = {27478138}, issn = {1872-7549}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows ; Dopamine/metabolism ; Hippocampus/*enzymology ; Learning/*physiology ; Light ; Memory/*physiology ; Mesencephalon/*enzymology ; Neurons/metabolism ; Songbirds ; Substantia Nigra/enzymology ; Tyrosine 3-Monooxygenase/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Disruption of the cyclic feature of the day-night environment can cause negative effects on daily activity and advanced brain functions such as learning, memory and decision-making behaviour. These functions in songbirds, including corvids, involve the hippocampus, pallium and midbrain, as revealed by ZENK (a neuronal activation marker) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expressions. TH is rate-limiting marker enzyme of the biosynthesis of dopamine, widely implicated in learning and memory. Here, we measured ZENK and TH immunoreactivity in the hippocampal, pallial and midbrain regions in response to cognitive performance (learning-memory retrieval) tests in Indian house crows (Corvus splendens) exposed to constant light environment (LL) with controls on 12h light:12h darkness. Along with the decay of circadian rhythm in activity behaviour, LL caused a significant decline in the cognitive performance. There was also a decrease under LL in the activity of neurons in the hippocampus, medial and central caudal nidopallium, and hyperpallium apicale, which are widely distributed with TH-immunoreactive fibres. Further, under LL, TH- immunoreactive neurons were reduced in number in midbrain dopamine synthesis sites, the venteral tegmental area (VTA) and substantia nigra (SN), with a negative correlation of co-localized ZENK/TH- immunoreactive cells on errors during the association tasks. These results show decreased activity of learning and memory neural systems, and underscore the role of dopamine in reduced cognitive performance of diurnal corvids with disrupted circadian rhythms under an abrupt light environment.}, }
@article {pmid27470204, year = {2016}, author = {Hofmann, MM and Cheke, LG and Clayton, NS}, title = {Western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) solve multiple-string problems by the spatial relation of string and reward.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {19}, number = {6}, pages = {1103-1114}, pmid = {27470204}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition ; *Passeriformes ; *Problem Solving ; *Reward ; }, abstract = {String-pulling is a widely used paradigm in animal cognition research to assess what animals understand about the functionality of strings as a means to obtain an out-of-reach reward. This study aimed to systematically investigate what rules Western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) use to solve different patterned string tasks, i.e. tasks in which subjects have to choose between two or more strings of which only one is connected to the reward, or where one is more efficient. Arranging strings in a parallel configuration showed that the jays were generally capable of solving multiple-string tasks and acted in a goal-directed manner. The slanted and crossed configurations revealed a reliance on a "proximity rule", that is, a tendency to choose the string-end closest to the reward. When confronted with strings of different lengths attached to rewards at different distances the birds chose according to the reward distance, preferring the reward closest to them, and were sensitive to the movement of the reward, but did not consistently prefer the shorter and therefore more efficient string. Generally, the scrub-jays were successful in tasks where the reward was closest to the string-ends they needed to pull or when string length and reward distance correlated, but the birds had problems when the wrong string-end was closest to the reward or when the food items were in close proximity to each other. These results show that scrub-jays had a partial understanding of the physical principles underlying string-pulling but relied on simpler strategies such as the proximity rule to solve the tasks.}, }
@article {pmid27468639, year = {2016}, author = {Expósito-Granados, M and De La Cruz, C and Parejo, D and Valencia, J and Alarcos, S and Avilés, JM}, title = {Exploratory behaviour modulates the relationship between colony familiarity and helping in a cooperative bird.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {131}, number = {}, pages = {9-14}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2016.07.013}, pmid = {27468639}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Exploratory Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Helping Behavior ; Male ; Passeriformes ; Personality/*physiology ; Sexual Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Individuals within animal groups may differ in personality and degree of familiarity raising the question of how this influences their social interactions. In Iberian magpies Cyanopica cooki, a portion of first-year males engage in cooperative behaviours and dispersal, allowing addressing this question. In this study, we first investigate the relationship between colony familiarity (native versus foreign) and reproductive status (breeding versus helping) of males during 21 years. Secondly, we measure the exploratory behaviour and monitor reproductive status of a sample of individuals with different colony familiarity during 2 years. Long-term monitoring revealed that foreign individuals were more likely breeders. The analysis on the subset of individuals in which exploratory behaviour was measured revealed a mediatory effect of exploratory behaviour in the association between colony familiarity and helping behaviour. Specifically, among foreign individuals, higher explorative males were more frequently involved in helping behaviour than lower explorative ones. Conversely, among native males, breeders were more explorative than helpers. Our results suggest that aspects of personality may mediate the value of familiarity in reproductive tasks in social species.}, }
@article {pmid27466440, year = {2016}, author = {Bhat, AA and Mohan, V and Sandini, G and Morasso, P}, title = {Humanoid infers Archimedes' principle: understanding physical relations and object affordances through cumulative learning experiences.}, journal = {Journal of the Royal Society, Interface}, volume = {13}, number = {120}, pages = {}, pmid = {27466440}, issn = {1742-5662}, mesh = {Animals ; Hominidae/*physiology ; Humans ; Learning/*physiology ; Memory, Long-Term/*physiology ; *Models, Neurological ; Nerve Net/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Emerging studies indicate that several species such as corvids, apes and children solve 'The Crow and the Pitcher' task (from Aesop's Fables) in diverse conditions. Hidden beneath this fascinating paradigm is a fundamental question: by cumulatively interacting with different objects, how can an agent abstract the underlying cause-effect relations to predict and creatively exploit potential affordances of novel objects in the context of sought goals? Re-enacting this Aesop's Fable task on a humanoid within an open-ended 'learning-prediction-abstraction' loop, we address this problem and (i) present a brain-guided neural framework that emulates rapid one-shot encoding of ongoing experiences into a long-term memory and (ii) propose four task-agnostic learning rules (elimination, growth, uncertainty and status quo) that correlate predictions from remembered past experiences with the unfolding present situation to gradually abstract the underlying causal relations. Driven by the proposed architecture, the ensuing robot behaviours illustrated causal learning and anticipation similar to natural agents. Results further demonstrate that by cumulatively interacting with few objects, the predictions of the robot in case of novel objects converge close to the physical law, i.e. the Archimedes principle: this being independent of both the objects explored during learning and the order of their cumulative exploration.}, }
@article {pmid27460795, year = {2016}, author = {Zylberberg, M and Van Hemert, C and Dumbacher, JP and Handel, CM and Tihan, T and DeRisi, JL}, title = {Novel Picornavirus Associated with Avian Keratin Disorder in Alaskan Birds.}, journal = {mBio}, volume = {7}, number = {4}, pages = {}, pmid = {27460795}, issn = {2150-7511}, support = {/HHMI/Howard Hughes Medical Institute/United States ; }, mesh = {Alaska ; Animals ; Beak/*pathology ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Birds ; Computational Biology ; Gene Order ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; Keratins/*metabolism ; Metagenomics ; Phylogeny ; Picornaviridae/classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Picornaviridae Infections/pathology/*veterinary/virology ; Sequence Homology ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Avian keratin disorder (AKD), characterized by debilitating overgrowth of the avian beak, was first documented in black-capped chickadees (Poecile atricapillus) in Alaska. Subsequently, similar deformities have appeared in numerous species across continents. Despite the widespread distribution of this emerging pathology, the cause of AKD remains elusive. As a result, it is unknown whether suspected cases of AKD in the afflicted species are causally linked, and the impacts of this pathology at the population and community levels are difficult to evaluate. We applied unbiased, metagenomic next-generation sequencing to search for candidate pathogens in birds affected with AKD. We identified and sequenced the complete coding region of a novel picornavirus, which we are calling poecivirus. Subsequent screening of 19 AKD-affected black-capped chickadees and 9 control individuals for the presence of poecivirus revealed that 19/19 (100%) AKD-affected individuals were positive, while only 2/9 (22%) control individuals were infected with poecivirus. Two northwestern crows (Corvus caurinus) and two red-breasted nuthatches (Sitta canadensis) with AKD-consistent pathology also tested positive for poecivirus. We suggest that poecivirus is a candidate etiological agent of AKD.<br><br>IMPORTANCE: Avian keratin disorder (AKD) is an increasingly common disease of wild birds. This disease, characterized by beak overgrowth, was first described in the late 1990s and has been spreading rapidly both geographically and in terms of host species affected. AKD decreases host fitness and can be fatal. However, the cause of the disease has remained elusive, and its impact on host populations is poorly understood. We found a novel and divergent picornavirus in 19/19 AKD-affected black-capped chickadees that we examined but in only 2/9 control cases. We also found this virus in 4 individuals of 2 other passerine species that exhibited symptoms consistent with AKD. Our data suggest that this novel picornavirus warrants further investigation as the causative agent of AKD.}, }
@article {pmid27455197, year = {2016}, author = {Wille, M and McBurney, S and Robertson, GJ and Wilhelm, SI and Blehert, DS and Soos, C and Dunphy, R and Whitney, H}, title = {A PELAGIC OUTBREAK OF AVIAN CHOLERA IN NORTH AMERICAN GULLS: SCAVENGING AS A PRIMARY MECHANISM FOR TRANSMISSION?.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {52}, number = {4}, pages = {793-802}, doi = {10.7589/2015-12-342}, pmid = {27455197}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology ; Birds ; Canada ; Charadriiformes/*microbiology ; Cholera/epidemiology/*transmission ; Disease Outbreaks ; *Feeding Behavior ; Newfoundland and Labrador/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Avian cholera, caused by the bacterium Pasteurella multocida , is an endemic disease globally, often causing annual epizootics in North American wild bird populations with thousands of mortalities. From December 2006 to March 2007, an avian cholera outbreak caused mortality in marine birds off the coast of Atlantic Canada, largely centered 300-400 km off the coast of the island of Newfoundland. Scavenging gulls (Larus spp.) were the primary species detected; however, mortality was also identified in Black-legged Kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla) and one Common Raven (Corvus corax), a nonmarine species. The most common gross necropsy findings in the birds with confirmed avian cholera were acute fibrinous and necrotizing lesions affecting the spleen, air sacs, and pericardium, and nonspecific hepatomegaly and splenomegaly. The etiologic agent, P. multocida serotype 1, was recovered from 77 of 136 carcasses examined, and confirmed or probable avian cholera was diagnosed in 85 cases. Mortality observed in scavenging gull species was disproportionately high relative to their abundance, particularly when compared to nonscavenging species. The presence of feather shafts in the ventricular lumen of the majority of larid carcasses diagnosed with avian cholera suggests scavenging of birds that died from avian cholera as a major mode of transmission. This documentation of an outbreak of avian cholera in a North American pelagic environment affecting primarily scavenging gulls indicates that offshore marine environments may be a component of avian cholera dynamics.}, }
@article {pmid27454122, year = {2016}, author = {Syrová, M and Němec, M and Veselý, P and Landová, E and Fuchs, R}, title = {Facing a Clever Predator Demands Clever Responses - Red-Backed Shrikes (Lanius collurio) vs. Eurasian Magpies (Pica pica).}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {11}, number = {7}, pages = {e0159432}, pmid = {27454122}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Nesting Behavior ; *Predatory Behavior ; }, abstract = {Red-backed shrikes (Lanius collurio) behave quite differently towards two common nest predators. While the European jay (Garrulus glandarius) is commonly attacked, in the presence of the Eurasian magpie (Pica pica), shrikes stay fully passive. We tested the hypotheses that this passive response to the magpie is an alternative defense strategy. Nesting shrikes were exposed to the commonly attacked European kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) in a situation in which i) a harmless domestic pigeon, ii) a commonly attacked European jay, and iii) a non-attacked black-billed magpie are (separately) presented nearby. The kestrel dummy presented together with the magpie dummy was attacked with a significantly lower intensity than when it was presented with the other intruders (pigeon, jay) or alone. This means that the presence of the magpie inhibited the shrike's defense response towards the other intruder. These results support our previous hypotheses that shrikes use an alternative defense strategy in the magpie's presence. We hypothesize that the magpie is able to associate the active defense of the shrikes with the close proximity of a nest and that shrikes try not to draw the magpie's attention to the nest. The reason why this strategy is not used against the jay remains unanswered as jays as well as magpies show very similar cognitive and foraging skills enabling them to individuate the nest presence according to active parental defense.}, }
@article {pmid27453448, year = {2016}, author = {Dobson, KG and Schmidt, LA and Saigal, S and Boyle, MH and Van Lieshout, RJ}, title = {Childhood cognition and lifetime risk of major depressive disorder in extremely low birth weight and normal birth weight adults.}, journal = {Journal of developmental origins of health and disease}, volume = {7}, number = {6}, pages = {574-580}, doi = {10.1017/S2040174416000374}, pmid = {27453448}, issn = {2040-1752}, support = {2009H00529//Canadian Institutes of Health Research/International ; MOP42536//Canadian Institutes of Health Research/International ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Birth Weight ; Canada/epidemiology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*physiology ; Depressive Disorder, Major/*epidemiology/physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; *Infant, Low Birth Weight ; Infant, Newborn ; Intelligence ; Male ; Social Class ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {In general population samples, better childhood cognitive functioning is associated with decreased risk of depression in adulthood. However, this link has not been examined in extremely low birth weight survivors (ELBW, <1000 g), a group known to have poorer cognition and greater depression risk. This study assessed associations between cognition at age 8 and lifetime risk of major depressive disorder in 84 ELBW survivors and 90 normal birth weight (NBW, ⩾2500 g) individuals up to 29-36 years of age. The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Revised (WISC-R), Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices and the Token Test assessed general, fluid, and verbal intelligence, respectively, at 8 years of age. Lifetime major depressive disorder was assessed using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview at age 29-36 years. Associations were examined using logistic regression adjusted for childhood socioeconomic status, educational attainment, age, sex, and marital status. Neither overall intelligence quotient (IQ) [WISC-R Full-Scale IQ, odds ratios (OR)=0.87, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.43-1.77], fluid intelligence (WISC-R Performance IQ, OR=0.98, 95% CI=0.48-2.00), nor verbal intelligence (WISC-R Verbal IQ, OR=0.81, 95% CI=0.40-1.63) predicted lifetime major depression in ELBW survivors. However, every standard deviation increase in WISC-R Full-Scale IQ (OR=0.43, 95% CI=0.20-0.92) and Performance IQ (OR=0.46, 95% CI=0.21-0.97), and each one point increase on the Token Test (OR=0.80, 95% CI=0.67-0.94) at age 8 was associated with a reduced risk of lifetime depression in NBW participants. Higher childhood IQ, better fluid intelligence, and greater verbal comprehension in childhood predicted reduced depression risk in NBW adults. Our findings suggest that ELBW survivors may be less protected by superior cognition than NBW individuals.}, }
@article {pmid27449007, year = {2016}, author = {Freedman, D and Bao, Y and Shen, L and Schaefer, CA and Brown, AS}, title = {Maternal T. gondii, offspring bipolar disorder and neurocognition.}, journal = {Psychiatry research}, volume = {243}, number = {}, pages = {382-389}, pmid = {27449007}, issn = {1872-7123}, support = {R01 MH073080/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; N01HD13334/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; K02 MH065422/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH069819/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; T32 MH013043/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Antibodies, Protozoan/blood ; Bipolar Disorder/blood/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognitive Dysfunction/blood/diagnosis/epidemiology ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Immunoglobulin G/blood ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/blood/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/blood/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Random Allocation ; *Toxoplasma/metabolism ; Toxoplasmosis/blood/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Prenatal exposure to maternal Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) IgG antibody titer has been associated previously with an increased risk of offspring schizophrenia (SZ) and cognitive impairment. We examined maternal T. gondii, offspring bipolar disorder (BP) and childhood cognition using a population-based birth cohort. Maternal sera, drawn in the third trimester, were analyzed for T. gondii IgG antibody titer, and offspring cognition at ages 5 and 9-11 was measured with the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (PPVT) and the Raven Matrices (Raven). Raw scores were standardized and the ages combined. Potential cases with BP from the cohort were identified by database linkages. This protocol identified 85 cases who were matched 1:2 to controls. Maternal T. gondii IgG was not associated with the risk of BP in offspring. Neither moderate [HR=1.43 (CI: 0.49, 4.17)] nor high IgG titer [HR=1.6 [CI: 0.74, 3.48)] were associated with offspring BP. Associations were not observed between maternal T. gondii and BP with psychotic features or BP type 1. In addition, maternal T. gondii was not associated with childhood cognition. Our study suggests that T. gondii may be specific to SZ among major psychotic disorders, though further studies with larger sample sizes are required.}, }
@article {pmid27447230, year = {2016}, author = {Mironov, SV and Palma, RL}, title = {A new feather mite of the genus Trouessartia Canestrini 1899 (Acariformes: Trouessartiidae) from the Seychelles magpie-robin, Copsychus sechellarum (Passeriformes: Muscicapidae).}, journal = {Acta parasitologica}, volume = {61}, number = {3}, pages = {629-635}, doi = {10.1515/ap-2016-0084}, pmid = {27447230}, issn = {1896-1851}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Body Size ; Feathers/*parasitology ; Female ; Male ; Mite Infestations/parasitology/*veterinary ; Mites/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification/genetics ; Passeriformes/*parasitology ; Seychelles ; }, abstract = {A new feather mite species, Trouessartia sechellarum sp. n. (Astigmata: Analgoidea: Trouessartiidae), is described from the Seychelles magpie-robin Copsychus sechellarum (Passeriformes: Muscicapidae), an endangered endemic passerine bird inhabiting the Seychelles Islands. The most clear features distinguishing this mite from the related species, T. microfolia Gaud, 1952, are as follows: in both sexes, setae c2 do not exceed 30 μm and are subequal in length to setae c3 and sRIII; in males, the hysteronotal shield is completely split into the prohysteronotal and lobar parts by a narrow groove, and the terminal lamellae are attenuate apically; in females, the median part of the hysteronotal shield bears numerous ovate lacunae, the terminal cleft width is approximately equal to the opisthosomal lobe width, and the collar of the spermathecal head is smooth.}, }
@article {pmid27446338, year = {2016}, author = {Hahn, HJ and Jung, HJ and Schrammek-Drusios, MC and Lee, SN and Kim, JH and Kwon, SB and An, IS and An, S and Ahn, KJ}, title = {Instrumental evaluation of anti-aging effects of cosmetic formulations containing palmitoyl peptides, Silybum marianum seed oil, vitamin E and other functional ingredients on aged human skin.}, journal = {Experimental and therapeutic medicine}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {1171-1176}, pmid = {27446338}, issn = {1792-0981}, abstract = {Anti-aging cosmetics are widely used for improving signs of aged skin such as skin wrinkles, decreased elasticity, low dermal density and yellow skin tone. The present study evaluated the effects of cosmetic formulations, eye cream and facial cream, containing palmitoyl peptides, Silybum marianum (S. marianum) seed oil, vitamin E and other functional ingredients on the improvement of facial wrinkles, elasticity, dermal density and skin tone after 4 weeks period of application on aged human skin. Healthy volunteers (n=20) with aged skin were recruited to apply the test materials facially twice per day for 4 weeks. Skin wrinkles, elasticity, dermal density and skin tone were measured instrumentally for assessing the improvement of skin aging. All the measurements were conducted prior to the application of test materials and at 2 and 4 weeks of treatment. Crow's feet wrinkles were decreased 5.97% after 2 weeks of test material application and 14.07% after 4 weeks of application in comparison of pre-application. Skin elasticity was increased 6.81% after 2 weeks and 8.79% after 4 weeks. Dermal density was increased 16.74% after 2 weeks and 27.63% after 4 weeks. With the L* value indicating skin brightness and the a* value indicating erythema (redness), the results showed that brightness was increased 1.70% after 2 weeks and 2.14% after 4 weeks, and erythema was decreased 10.45% after 2 weeks and 22.39% after 4 weeks. Hence, the test materials appear to exert some degree of anti-aging effects on aged human skin. There were no abnormal skin responses from the participants during the trial period. We conclude that the facial and eye cream containing palmitoyl peptides and S. marianum seed oil, vitamin E and other ingredients have effects on the improvement of facial wrinkles, elasticity, dermal density and skin tone.}, }
@article {pmid27438979, year = {2016}, author = {Veloso, LA and Mello, MJ and Ribeiro Neto, JP and Barbosa, LN and Silva, EJ}, title = {Quality of life, cognitive level and school performance in children with functional lower urinary tract dysfunction.}, journal = {Jornal brasileiro de nefrologia}, volume = {38}, number = {2}, pages = {234-244}, doi = {10.5935/0101-2800.20160033}, pmid = {27438979}, issn = {2175-8239}, mesh = {*Academic Performance ; Adolescent ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Quality of Life ; Urination Disorders/physiopathology/*psychology ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) are voiding dysfunctions without anatomical or neurological defects. The diagnosis is primarily clinical, with symptoms standardized by the International Children's Continence Society. Few studies relate quality of life of patients with cognitive and school performance.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate milestones of bladder control, daily problems, quality of life (QoL), cognitive function and school performance of children with LUTD.<br><br>METHODS: Case series of patients followed in the Pediatric Nephrology tertiary hospital with assessment of QoL (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory - PedsQoL version 4), School Performance Test (TDE) and Raven Progressive Matrices test.<br><br>RESULTS: Girls of lower social class were (90.9%) of eligible children. The mean age was 9.1 &#xb1; 4.8 years old. The most common symptoms were urge incontinence (81%), holding maneuvers (77.3%) and enuresis (59.1%) associated with the elimination disorder syndrome (63.6%). Caregivers considered volunteers urinary losses and/ or symptoms, and fought and/or beat the child. Children had been subjected to embarrassing situations such as warnings of teachers, they hid symptoms and/or the dirty clothes. Mean score of QoL was 71.0 &#xb1; 12.6 with the lowest mean score on the school dimension. In TDE 55% had lower performance and in Raven Matrices 60% were intellectually in the medium level. It was observed lower QoL scores in the medium and lower level of TDE and average intellectual capacity/below average in Raven matrices.<br><br>CONCLUSION: LUTD may negatively affect family and social relationships, school performance and QoL of children with the dysfunction.}, }
@article {pmid27437926, year = {2016}, author = {Jacobs, IF and von Bayern, A and Osvath, M}, title = {A novel tool-use mode in animals: New Caledonian crows insert tools to transport objects.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {19}, number = {6}, pages = {1249-1252}, pmid = {27437926}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides) rely heavily on a range of tools to extract prey. They manufacture novel tools, save tools for later use, and have morphological features that facilitate tool use. We report six observations, in two individuals, of a novel tool-use mode not previously reported in non-human animals. Insert-and-transport tool use involves inserting a stick into an object and then moving away, thereby transporting both object and tool. All transported objects were non-food objects. One subject used a stick to transport an object that was too large to be handled by beak, which suggests the tool facilitated object control. The function in the other cases is unclear but seems to be an expression of play or exploration. Further studies should investigate whether it is adaptive in the wild and to what extent crows can flexibly apply the behaviour in experimental settings when purposive transportation of objects is advantageous.}, }
@article {pmid27437006, year = {2016}, author = {Aliabadi, B and Davari-Ashtiani, R and Khademi, M and Arabgol, F}, title = {Comparison of Creativity between Children with and without Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Case-Control Study.}, journal = {Iranian journal of psychiatry}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, pages = {99-103}, pmid = {27437006}, issn = {1735-4587}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare creativity in children with and without attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.<br><br>METHOD: This was an analytic and descriptive study. Participants were 33 children aged 7-12 years selected from a child and adolescent psychiatric clinic at Imam Hossein hospital (Tehran, Iran), who were diagnosed with ADHD by a child and adolescent psychiatrist. They met the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria for ADHD and had no comorbidity according to K-SADS (Kiddi-Scadule for Affective disorders and Schizophrenia). They were requested not to take any medication. They took the Figural TTCT (Torrance Test of Creativity Thinking) and Raven Intelligence test after using medication. Thirty-three age and sex-matched children selected from the regional schools were recruited for the control group. They did not have any psychiatric disorders according to K-SADS. The Figural TTCT and Raven Intelligence test were conducted for the controls as well.<br><br>RESULTS: No statistically significant difference was found in the intelligence score and the mean&#xb1;SD of the total score of creativity between children with ADHD (125.2 &#xb1; 42.6) and the control group (130.6 &#xb1; 47.5) (P value = 0.49). Children with ADHD had worse function in fluency and flexibility items and were not different in originality and elaboration items.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The creativity of children with ADHD is not different from that of the control group.}, }
@article {pmid27432044, year = {2016}, author = {deShazo, RD and Minor, WF and Smith, R and Skipworth, LB}, title = {An Unwilling Partnership With the Great Society Part I: Head Start and the Beginning of Change in the White Medical Community.}, journal = {The American journal of the medical sciences}, volume = {352}, number = {1}, pages = {109-119}, doi = {10.1016/j.amjms.2016.04.003}, pmid = {27432044}, issn = {1538-2990}, mesh = {Black or African American/history ; Civil Rights/*history ; Healthcare Disparities/*history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Mississippi ; Politics ; White People/history ; }, abstract = {By 1965, the policies and programs of Lyndon B. Johnson's Great Society brought optimism to black physicians and a new wave of resistance against black civil rights advocates in the American South. The largest of the first Head Start programs, Child Development Group of Mississippi (CDGM), had its roots in Freedom Summer 1964 and the Medical Committee for Human Rights. Like other proposed programs with strong medical components, CDGM was caught in a legislative Bermuda triangle created by the powerful Mississippi congressional delegation to maintain white supremacy and plantation economics. Physician-led investigations exposed the extraordinary level of poor health among Mississippi's black children, supported Head Start as a remedy, and awakened the white medical establishment to health disparities of the Jim Crow period. It was also the beginning of positive change in the previously silent white medical community in the South and their support of civil justice in health.}, }
@article {pmid27429456, year = {2016}, author = {Greggor, AL and Clayton, NS and Fulford, AJ and Thornton, A}, title = {Street smart: faster approach towards litter in urban areas by highly neophobic corvids and less fearful birds.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {117}, number = {}, pages = {123-133}, pmid = {27429456}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {The extent to which animals respond fearfully to novel stimuli may critically influence their ability to survive alongside humans. However, it is unclear whether the fear of novel objects, object neophobia, consistently varies in response to human disturbance. Where variation has been documented, it is unclear whether this variation is due to a change in fear towards specific novel stimuli, or whether it is symptomatic of a general change in fear behaviour. We measured levels of object neophobia in free-flying birds across urban and rural habitats, comparing corvids, a family known for being behaviourally flexible and innovative, with other urban-adapting bird species. Neophobic responses were measured in the presence of different types of objects that varied in their novelty, and were compared to behaviour during a baited control. Corvids were more neophobic than noncorvid species towards all object types, but their hesitancy abated after conspecifics approached in experimental conditions in which objects resembled items they may have experienced previously. Both sets of species were faster to approach objects made from human litter in urban than rural areas, potentially reflecting a category-specific reduction in fear based on experience. These results highlight species similarities in behavioural responses to human-dominated environments despite large differences in baseline neophobia.}, }
@article {pmid27421709, year = {2016}, author = {Hamilton, TJ and Myggland, A and Duperreault, E and May, Z and Gallup, J and Powell, RA and Schalomon, M and Digweed, SM}, title = {Episodic-like memory in zebrafish.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {19}, number = {6}, pages = {1071-1079}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-016-1014-1}, pmid = {27421709}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Memory ; Mental Recall ; *Zebrafish ; }, abstract = {Episodic-like memory tests often aid in determining an animal's ability to recall the what, where, and which (context) of an event. To date, this type of memory has been demonstrated in humans, wild chacma baboons, corvids (Scrub jays), humming birds, mice, rats, Yucatan minipigs, and cuttlefish. The potential for this type of memory in zebrafish remains unexplored even though they are quickly becoming an essential model organism for the study of a variety of human cognitive and mental disorders. Here we explore the episodic-like capabilities of zebrafish (Danio rerio) in a previously established mammalian memory paradigm. We demonstrate that when zebrafish were presented with a familiar object in a familiar context but a novel location within that context, they spend more time in the novel quadrant. Thus, zebrafish display episodic-like memory as they remember what object they saw, where they saw it (quadrant location), and on which occasion (yellow or blue walls) it was presented.}, }
@article {pmid27421643, year = {2016}, author = {Remmers, T and Van Kann, D and Thijs, C and de Vries, S and Kremers, S}, title = {Playability of school-environments and after-school physical activity among 8-11 year-old children: specificity of time and place.}, journal = {The international journal of behavioral nutrition and physical activity}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {82}, pmid = {27421643}, issn = {1479-5868}, mesh = {Child ; *Environment Design ; *Exercise ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Play and Playthings ; *Schools ; Sports ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Physical Activity (PA) occurs in several behavioral domains (e.g., sports, active transport), and is affected by distinct environmental factors. By filtering objective PA using children's school schedules, daily PA can be separated into more conceptually meaningful domains. We used an ecological design to investigate associations between "playability" of 21 school-environments and children's objectively measured after-school PA. We also examined to what extent distinct time-periods after-school and the distance from children's residence to their school influenced this association.<br><br>METHODS: PA was measured in 587 8-11 year-old children by accelerometers, and separated in four two-hour time-periods after-school. For each school-environment, standardized playability-scores were calculated based on standardized audits within 800 m network buffers around each school. Schools and children's residences were geocoded, and we classified each child to be residing in 400, 800, 1600, or >1600 m crow-fly buffers from their school. The influence of network-distance buffers was also examined using the same approach.<br><br>RESULTS: Playability was associated with light PA and moderate-to-vigorous PA after-school, especially in the time-period directly after-school and among children who lived within 800 m from their school. Playability explained approximately 30% of the after-school PA variance between schools. Greater distance from children's residence to their school weakened the association between playability of the school-environments and after-school PA.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that relationships between the conceptually matched physical environment and PA can be revealed and made plausible with increasing specificity in time and distance.}, }
@article {pmid27419017, year = {2016}, author = {McCracken, DS and Allen, DA and Gow, AJ}, title = {Associations between urban greenspace and health-related quality of life in children.}, journal = {Preventive medicine reports}, volume = {3}, number = {}, pages = {211-221}, pmid = {27419017}, issn = {2211-3355}, support = {T32 GM007337/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {With research to suggest that urban greenspace use can affect the health and wellbeing of adults, it is important to investigate this association in children. Compared with factors such as physical activity, research considering greenspace and its association with the health and wellbeing of children from urban areas is relatively rare. This study examined the health-related quality of life of 276 children residing in the city of Edinburgh in relation to quantity and use of greenspace. As much of the existing research has employed parental reports of children's health, the current study assessed health-related quality of life via self-report, measured using the Kid-KINDL questionnaire (Ravens-Sieberer &amp; Bullinger, 1998). Spatial analysis of greenspace quantity and typology was undertaken using mapping software, ArcGIS (Esri, 2011). In regression analysis, higher greenspace use and having fewer siblings were significantly associated with better health-related quality of life. Further analysis revealed that these variables were also associated with the 'friends' sub-scale score of the Kid-KINDL. Higher greenspace use was positively associated with 'self-esteem' sub-scale scores. However, the quantity of residential greenspace was not associated with the health-related quality of life of children. This study suggests that increased use of greenspace in urban areas might have a small but positive impact on child health-related quality of life, though future longitudinal and intervention studies are required to confirm these causal assumptions.}, }
@article {pmid27406172, year = {2017}, author = {Szabo, B and Bugnyar, T and Auersperg, AM}, title = {Within-group relationships and lack of social enhancement during object manipulation in captive Goffin's cockatoos (Cacatua goffiniana).}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {45}, number = {1}, pages = {7-19}, pmid = {27406172}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Animals ; *Choice Behavior ; *Cockatoos ; Crows ; *Learning ; Parrots ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Different types of social relationships can influence individual learning strategies in structured groups of animals. Studies on a number of avian species have suggested that local and/or stimulus enhancement are important ingredients of the respective species' exploration modes. Our aim was to identify the role of enhancement during object manipulation in different social contexts. We used focal observations to identify a linear dominance hierarchy as well as affiliative relationships between individuals in a group of 14 Goffin's cockatoos (Cacatua goffiniana, formerly goffini). Thereafter, in an unrewarded object choice task, several pairs of subjects were tested for a possible influence of social enhancement (local vs. stimulus) in three conditions: dominance, affiliation, and kinship. Our results suggest strong individual biases. Whereas previous studies on ravens and kea had indicated that enhancement in a non-food-related task was influenced by the social relationship between a demonstrator and an observer (affiliated - nonaffiliated), we found no such effects in our study group. In this context, Goffin's cockatoos' object learning seems to take place more on an individual level, despite their generally high motivation to manipulate nonfood items.}, }
@article {pmid27404915, year = {2016}, author = {Inger, R and Per, E and Cox, DT and Gaston, KJ}, title = {Key role in ecosystem functioning of scavengers reliant on a single common species.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {29641}, pmid = {27404915}, issn = {2045-2322}, abstract = {The importance of species richness in maintaining ecosystem function in the field remains unclear. Recent studies however have suggested that in some systems functionality is maintained by a few abundant species. Here we determine this relationship by quantifying the species responsible for a key ecosystem role, carcass removal by scavengers. We find that, unlike those within largely unaltered environments, the scavenger community within our highly altered system is dominated by a single species, the Carrion crow, despite the presence of a number of other scavenging species. Furthermore, we find no relationship between abundance of crows and carcass removal. However, the overall activity of crows predicts carcass biomass removal rate in an asymptotic manner, suggesting that a relatively low level of abundance and scavenging activity is required to maintain this component of ecosystem function.}, }
@article {pmid27392231, year = {2016}, author = {Mert, DG and Kelleci, M and Yildiz, E and Mizrak, A and Kugu, N}, title = {Childhood trauma and general cognitive ability: Roles of minimization/denial and gender.}, journal = {Psychiatry research}, volume = {243}, number = {}, pages = {147-151}, doi = {10.1016/j.psychres.2016.02.025}, pmid = {27392231}, issn = {1872-7123}, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological/*physiology ; Adult ; Adult Survivors of Child Adverse Events/*psychology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Denial, Psychological ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Sex Factors ; Students ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of minimization and gender on the interaction between childhood trauma and general cognitive ability. The study included 345 students. The data were obtained via an information form, the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), and Raven's standard progressive matrices (RSPM). The mean CTQ total score and the mean sexual abuse, physical, and emotional neglect subscale scores of the male students were significantly higher than those of the female students (p<0.05). The mean minimization score of the female students was greater than that of the male students (p<0.05). However, among the female students with minimization scores of 3, there was a moderate and significant negative correlation between the CTQ and RSPM scores (r=-0.533, p<0.05). This study found that general cognitive ability was influenced by childhood trauma among female students with higher minimization/neglect scores. The results of the current study suggest that ignoring the effects of minimization may be a misleading factor for determining the gender ratio of childhood trauma and evaluating its effect on long-term cognitive functions.}, }
@article {pmid27384024, year = {2016}, author = {Dove, WF}, title = {Weaving a Tapestry from Threads Spun by Geneticists: The Series Perspectives on Genetics, 1987-2008.}, journal = {Genetics}, volume = {203}, number = {3}, pages = {1011-1022}, pmid = {27384024}, issn = {1943-2631}, mesh = {Genetics/*history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; *Peer Review, Research ; United States ; }, abstract = {The Perspectives column was initiated in 1987 when Jan Drake, Editor-in-Chief of GENETICS, invited Jim Crow and William Dove to serve as coeditors of "Anecdotal, Historical, and Critical Commentaries." As the series evolved over 21 years, under the guidance of Crow and Dove, the input of stories told by geneticists from many countries created a panorama of 20th-century genetics. Three recurrent themes are visible: how geneticists have created the science (as solitary investigators, in pairs, or in cooperative groups); how geneticists work hard, but find ways to have fun; and how public and private institutions have sustained the science of genetics, particularly in the United States. This article ends by considering how the Perspectives series and other communication formats can carry forward the core science of genetics from the 20th into the 21st century.}, }
@article {pmid27378720, year = {2017}, author = {Thompson-Miller, R and Picca, LH}, title = {"There Were Rapes!": Sexual Assaults of African American Women and Children in Jim Crow.}, journal = {Violence against women}, volume = {23}, number = {8}, pages = {934-950}, doi = {10.1177/1077801216654016}, pmid = {27378720}, issn = {1552-8448}, mesh = {Black or African American/ethnology/*psychology ; Crime Victims/history/*psychology ; Enslavement/ethnology/history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Interviews as Topic/methods ; Prevalence ; Racism/history ; Rape/*psychology ; Southeastern United States/ethnology ; Southwestern United States/ethnology ; White People/ethnology/history/psychology ; }, abstract = {Using data from 92 interviews, this article examines the narratives of African Americans' experiences as children and young adults during Jim Crow in the Southeast and Southwest. It gives voice to the realities of sexual assaults committed by ordinary White men who systematically terrorized African American families with impunity after the post-Reconstruction south until the 1960s. The interviewees discuss the short- and long-term impact of physical, mental, emotional, and sexual assaults in their communities. We discuss the top four prevalent themes that emerged related to sexual assault, specifically (a) the normalization of sexual assaults, (b) protective measures to avoid White violence, (c) the morality of African American women, and (d) the long-term consequences of assaults on children.}, }
@article {pmid27376186, year = {2016}, author = {Frömer, R and Stürmer, B and Sommer, W}, title = {Come to think of it: Contributions of reasoning abilities and training schedule to skill acquisition in a virtual throwing task.}, journal = {Acta psychologica}, volume = {170}, number = {}, pages = {58-65}, doi = {10.1016/j.actpsy.2016.06.010}, pmid = {27376186}, issn = {1873-6297}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; Individuality ; Learning/*physiology ; Male ; Motor Skills/*physiology ; Physical Education and Training/methods ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Retention, Psychology ; Thinking/*physiology ; Transfer, Psychology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {According to Schmidt's schema theory skill acquisition is based on schema formation where multiple learning incidents with varying task features are abstracted to a unifying pattern, the schema. Practice can be scheduled block-wise, with low contextual interference (CI) or randomly, with high CI. The greater effort during high CI training usually results in reduced training success but enhanced retention and transfer performance. In contrast to well-established CI effects for simple tasks, findings for complex tasks are heterogeneous, supposedly due to the detrimental accumulation of task demands. We assumed that in complex tasks, cognitive reasoning abilities might impose a limit upon schema formation and hence the effectiveness of CI. In a virtual overarm-throwing experiment participants practiced target positions at center, left, or right and were retested for retention - at the center position - and transfer with a larger target distance. Although there was no main effect of CI on performance, either in training, retention or transfer, under high CI, training performance was better for participants with higher reasoning ability, as measured with the Raven matrices. This advantage persisted across retention and transfer. Under low CI, reasoning was positively related to performance improvement only in the last third of training. We argue, that variability of practice is a necessary prerequisite for beneficial effects of reasoning abilities. Based on previous findings, we discuss feedback evaluation as a possible locus of the relationship between reasoning and performance in motor skill acquisition.}, }
@article {pmid27369004, year = {2016}, author = {Bae, SH and Park, JJ and Song, EJ and Lee, JA and Byun, KS and Kim, NS and Moon, TK}, title = {The comparison of the melanin content and UV exposure affecting aging process: seven countries in Asia.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {335-342}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.12234}, pmid = {27369004}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Asia ; Elasticity/radiation effects ; *Environmental Exposure ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Melanins/*analysis ; Middle Aged ; Skin/*chemistry/radiation effects ; Skin Aging/*physiology/*radiation effects ; *Ultraviolet Rays ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The skin brightness is determined according to the amount and type of melanin. People with darker skin have a greater amount of melanin that makes their skin less susceptible to UV damages. They live in lower latitude and receive a greater amount of the intensity of the UV radiation.<br><br>AIM: We wanted to know how the latitude and skin brightness affect skin aging.<br><br>METHODS: Three thousand volunteers from seven countries (Korea, China, India, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia), aged 20-59 years, participated in this study. We measured skin brightness, Ra (wrinkles parameter), and R2 (elasticity parameter) under controlled environmental conditions. The skin brightness of the face was measured using the Janus[&#xae;] which is a facial analysis system. Cutometer[&#xae;] the elasticity was measured by on the cheeks, and PRIMOS lite[&#xae;] was used to evaluate wrinkles on crow's feet.<br><br>RESULTS: Latitude and skin brightness showed a positive correlation (0.346). Also, the correlations of Ra and R2 with skin brightness were significantly negative (-0.181) and positive (0.105), respectively. Results of comparison of Ra and R2 with age among the countries showed no significant difference among the 20s, but there was a significant difference among the 50s between countries with high latitude and low latitude.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The long-term exposure of UV radiation, the natural environmental factor, seems to have more decisive effect on the skin aging process than the photoprotective effect of melanin of epidermal skin. This study helps to understand differences of the skin properties among countries in Asia.}, }
@article {pmid29232095, year = {2016}, author = {Asdell, J}, title = {Address to IDA House of Delegates IDA President Dr. Jay Asdell May 21, 2016.}, journal = {Journal (Indiana Dental Association)}, volume = {95}, number = {3}, pages = {32-34}, pmid = {29232095}, issn = {0019-6568}, mesh = {Congresses as Topic ; Dentistry/*trends ; Humans ; Indiana ; *Societies, Dental ; }, }
@article {pmid27359074, year = {2016}, author = {Miller, R and Schwab, C and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Explorative innovators and flexible use of social information in common ravens (Corvus corax) and carrion crows (Corvus corone).}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {130}, number = {4}, pages = {328-340}, doi = {10.1037/com0000039}, pmid = {27359074}, issn = {1939-2087}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Choice Behavior ; *Crows ; Exploratory Behavior/*physiology ; Humans ; *Problem Solving ; *Social Behavior ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Innovation and social information use are influenced by individual characteristics, and are important for the creation and transmission of novel behavioral patterns. Here, we investigated which individual factors predict innovation rates and social transmission of information in a comparative study with identically reared common ravens (Corvus corax) and carrion crows (Corvus corone corone; Corvus corone cornix). In the innovation experiment (1), we presented the birds with a novel problem-solving task while alone, to determine which individuals would quickly solve ("innovators") or not solve ("noninnovators") this task. We then related these findings to sex, object exploration (frequency of novel item manipulation), object neophobia (latency to novel item interaction), and social rank position. We found that innovators were more explorative than noninnovators, although they did not differ significantly in social rank, object neophobia or sex. In the social information use experiments (2 &amp; 3), subjects first observed a model (Exp. 2: conspecific, heterospecific; Exp. 3: conspecific innovator &amp; noninnovator) demonstrate a specific color selection in a 2-choice cup task, before being allowed to make their own cup selection. Innovator and noninnovator observers did not significantly differ in their tendency to use social information, that is, to select the demonstrated cup first, from a conspecific or heterospecific model. Furthermore, observers did not preferentially use social information from an innovator over a noninnovator model. We discuss our findings in relation to the likely benefits of flexible information use, and the role of other model characteristics, such as relationships, on the use of social information. (PsycINFO Database Record}, }
@article {pmid27356847, year = {2017}, author = {Teivaanmäki, T and Bun Cheung, Y and Pulakka, A and Virkkala, J and Maleta, K and Ashorn, P}, title = {Height gain after two-years-of-age is associated with better cognitive capacity, measured with Raven's coloured matrices at 15-years-of-age in Malawi.}, journal = {Maternal &amp; child nutrition}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {}, pmid = {27356847}, issn = {1740-8709}, mesh = {Adolescent ; *Body Height ; Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Growth Disorders/*epidemiology ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Linear Models ; Malawi/epidemiology ; Male ; Mothers ; Prospective Studies ; Rural Population ; }, abstract = {Stunting is a measure of chronic undernutrition, and it affects approximately 160 million children worldwide. Cognitive development of stunted children is compromised, but evidence about the association between height gain in late childhood and adolescent cognitive capacity is scarce. We aimed to determine the association between height gains at different ages, including late childhood, and cognitive capacity at 15-years-of-age. We conducted a prospective cohort study in a rural African setting in Southern Malawi. The study cohort was enrolled between June 1995 and August 1996. It originally comprised mothers of 813 fetuses, and the number of children born live was 767. These children were followed up until the age of 15 years. The anthropometrics were measured at one and 24-months-of-age and 15-years-of-age, and cognitive capacity of participants was assessed at 15-years-of-age with Raven's Coloured Matrices score, mathematic test score, median reaction time (RT) (milliseconds) and RT lapses. The associations between growth and the outcome measures were assessed with linear regression. Raven's Coloured Matrices score was predicted by height gain between 24 months and 15-years-of-age (coefficient 0.85, P = 0.03) and (coefficient 0.69, P = 0.06), but not by earlier growth, when possible confounders were included in the model. The association weakened when school education was further added in the model (coefficient = 0.69, P = 0,060). In conclusion, in rural Malawi, better growth in late childhood is likely to lead to better cognitive capacity in adolescence, partly through more school education. In light of these results, growth promotion should not only be limited to early childhood.}, }
@article {pmid27349580, year = {2017}, author = {Halayem, S and Hammami, M and Fakhfakh, R and Gaddour, N and Tabbane, K and Amado, I and Krebs, MO and Bouden, A}, title = {[Adaptation and validation of the neurological soft sign's scale of Krebs et al. to children].}, journal = {L'Encephale}, volume = {43}, number = {2}, pages = {128-134}, doi = {10.1016/j.encep.2016.02.018}, pmid = {27349580}, issn = {0013-7006}, mesh = {Autistic Disorder/*diagnosis/physiopathology/psychology ; Calibration ; Child ; Child Development ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neurologic Examination/methods/*standards ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Psychology, Child/methods/*standards ; Psychology, Developmental/methods/standards ; Psychometrics/methods/*standards ; Reproducibility of Results ; Tunisia ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Neurological soft signs (NSS) include anomalies in motor integration, coordination, sensory integration and lateralization and could be endophenotypic markers in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Their characterization provides a more precise phenotype of ASD and more homogeneous subtypes to facilitate clinical and genetic research. Few scales for NSS have been adapted and validated in children including children with ASD. Our objective was to perform an adaptation to the child of a scale assessing neurological soft signs and a validation study in both general and clinical populations.<br><br>METHODS: We have selected the NSS scale of Krebs et al. (2000) already validated in adults. It encompasses 5&#xa0;dimensions: motor coordination, motor integration, sensory integration, involuntary movement, laterality. After a preliminary study that examined 42&#xa0;children, several changes have been made to the original version to adapt it to the child and to increase its feasibility, particularly in children with ASD. Then we conducted a validation study by assessing the psychometric properties of this scale in a population of 86&#xa0;children including 26&#xa0;children with ASD (DSM 5&#xa0;Criteria) and 60&#xa0;typically developing children. Children's ages ranged between 6&#xa0;and 12&#xa0;years, and patients and controls were matched for gender, age and intelligence. Patients were assessed using the Autism diagnostic Interview-revised and the Childhood Autism Rating Scale to confirm diagnosis. Typically developing children were assessed using the semi-structured Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview for Children and Adolescents to eliminate any psychiatric disorder. All children with neurological pathologies (history of cerebral palsy, congenital anomaly of the central nervous system, epilepsy, tuberous sclerosis, neurofibromatosis, antecedent of severe head trauma) and obvious physical deformities or sensory deficits that could interfere with neurological assessment were excluded from the study. Both patients and controls were assessed using the Raven Progressive Matrices to exclude intellectual disability, and the adapted Krebs' scale for the assessment of NSS.<br><br>RESULTS: Adaptation of the scale consisted of a modification in the order of items, in the use of concrete supports for the assessment of laterality and in the elimination of item constructive praxis. The internal consistency was good with a Cronbach alpha of 0.87. Inter-rater reliability was good, kappa coefficient was greater than 0.75&#xa0;for 16&#xa0;items, 3&#xa0;items had a kappa value between 0.74&#xa0;and 0.60, only 1&#xa0;item had a kappa coefficient between 0.4&#xa0;and 0.59. Good inter-rater reliability was also checked for the total score with a value of intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.91. Principal component analysis found five factors accounting for 62.96&#xa0;% of the total variance. About the comparison between patients and controls, significant differences were found for NSS total score (P=0.000) and all subscores.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The adaptation for children of the Krebs et al.' NSS scale proved to be valid, especially in children with ASD.}, }
@article {pmid27346889, year = {2016}, author = {Reber, SA and Boeckle, M and Szipl, G and Janisch, J and Bugnyar, T and Fitch, WT}, title = {Territorial raven pairs are sensitive to structural changes in simulated acoustic displays of conspecifics.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {116}, number = {}, pages = {153-162}, pmid = {27346889}, issn = {0003-3472}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Human language involves combining items into meaningful, syntactically structured wholes. The evolutionary origin of syntactic abilities has been investigated by testing pattern perception capacities in nonhuman animals. New World primates can respond spontaneously to structural changes in acoustic sequences and songbirds can learn to discriminate between various patterns in operant tasks. However, there is no conclusive evidence that songbirds respond spontaneously to structural changes in patterns without reinforcement or training. In this study, we tested pattern perception capacities of common ravens, Corvus corax, in a habituation-discrimination playback experiment. To enhance stimulus salience, call recordings of male and female ravens were used as acoustic elements, combined to create artificial territorial displays as target patterns. We habituated captive territorial raven pairs to displays following a particular pattern and subsequently exposed them to several test and control playbacks. Subjects spent more time visually orienting towards the loudspeaker in the discrimination phase when they heard structurally novel call combinations, violating the pattern presented during habituation. This demonstrates that songbirds, much like primates, can be sensitive to structural changes in auditory patterns and respond to them spontaneously, without training.}, }
@article {pmid27341492, year = {2016}, author = {Foss, L and Reisen, WK and Fang, Y and Kramer, V and Padgett, K}, title = {Evaluation of Nucleic Acid Preservation Cards for West Nile Virus Testing in Dead Birds.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {11}, number = {6}, pages = {e0157555}, pmid = {27341492}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {U50 CK000410/CK/NCEZID CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*virology ; Birds ; California/epidemiology ; Public Health Surveillance ; *RNA, Viral ; Reproducibility of Results ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; West Nile Fever/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {The California West Nile virus (WNV) Dead Bird Surveillance Program (DBSP) is an important component of WNV surveillance in the state. We evaluated FTA™ and RNASound™ cards as an alternative method for sampling dead birds for WNV molecular testing as these cards allow for more cost effective, rapid, and safer diagnostic sampling than the shipment of bird carcasses. To evaluate accuracy of results among avian sampling regimes, Reverse-Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) results from FTA™ and RNASound™ cards were compared with results from kidney tissue, brain tissue, or oral swabs in lysis buffer in 2012-2013. In addition, RT-PCR results were compared with results from oral swabs tested by rapid antigen tests (RAMP™ and VecTOR™). While test results from the cards were not as sensitive as kidney tissue testing, they were more likely to provide accurate results than rapid antigen tests, and detected WNV in corvids as well as in other passerines, raptors, and waterfowl. Overall, WNV RT-PCR cycle threshold (Ct) scores from the cards were higher than those from tissue testing, but both card products displayed high sensitivity and specificity. American Crow samples provided the highest sensitivity. The cards also proved to be easier and more convenient vehicles for collecting and shipping samples, and in 2014 our program launched use of RNASound™ cards in the DBSP. Both FTA™ and RNASound™ products displayed 96% agreement with tissue results and are an adequate alternative sampling method for WNV dead bird testing.}, }
@article {pmid27298789, year = {2016}, author = {Xu, EX}, title = {Professor Jay Simhan: surgery improves the quality of life for patients.}, journal = {Translational andrology and urology}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {399-400}, doi = {10.21037/tau.2015.12.09}, pmid = {27298789}, issn = {2223-4691}, }
@article {pmid27298365, year = {2016}, author = {Olkowicz, S and Kocourek, M and Lučan, RK and Porteš, M and Fitch, WT and Herculano-Houzel, S and Němec, P}, title = {Birds have primate-like numbers of neurons in the forebrain.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {113}, number = {26}, pages = {7255-7260}, pmid = {27298365}, issn = {1091-6490}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Brain/*cytology ; Cell Count ; Female ; Male ; *Neurons ; Primates ; }, abstract = {Some birds achieve primate-like levels of cognition, even though their brains tend to be much smaller in absolute size. This poses a fundamental problem in comparative and computational neuroscience, because small brains are expected to have a lower information-processing capacity. Using the isotropic fractionator to determine numbers of neurons in specific brain regions, here we show that the brains of parrots and songbirds contain on average twice as many neurons as primate brains of the same mass, indicating that avian brains have higher neuron packing densities than mammalian brains. Additionally, corvids and parrots have much higher proportions of brain neurons located in the pallial telencephalon compared with primates or other mammals and birds. Thus, large-brained parrots and corvids have forebrain neuron counts equal to or greater than primates with much larger brains. We suggest that the large numbers of neurons concentrated in high densities in the telencephalon substantially contribute to the neural basis of avian intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid27289339, year = {2016}, author = {Vierkötter, A and Hüls, A and Yamamoto, A and Stolz, S and Krämer, U and Matsui, MS and Morita, A and Wang, S and Li, Z and Jin, L and Krutmann, J and Schikowski, T}, title = {Extrinsic skin ageing in German, Chinese and Japanese women manifests differently in all three groups depending on ethnic background, age and anatomical site.}, journal = {Journal of dermatological science}, volume = {83}, number = {3}, pages = {219-225}, doi = {10.1016/j.jdermsci.2016.05.011}, pmid = {27289339}, issn = {1873-569X}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Asian People ; China ; Female ; Germany ; Humans ; Hyperpigmentation/diagnosis/*ethnology ; Japan ; Linear Models ; Middle Aged ; Sex Factors ; Skin Aging/*ethnology ; *Skin Pigmentation ; *White People ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: It has been suggested that extrinsic skin ageing manifests differently in Caucasians versus East Asians. In particular, from previous studies it was concluded that Caucasians are more prone to develop wrinkles, whereas pigment spot formation is the hallmark of extrinsic skin ageing in East Asians. However, these assumptions are based on a very limited number of studies which did not include different East Asian populations.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: We here compare the manifestation of extrinsic skin ageing signs in German, Japanese and Chinese women by specifically elucidating the age and anatomical site dependence of any potential ethnic difference.<br><br>METHODS: In the present study, we assessed skin ageing in N=902 German, N=165 Japanese and N=1260 Chinese women ranging from 30 to 90 years by means of SCINEXA&#x2122;. Linear regression analysis was used to test for ethnic differences and their age and site dependence adjusted for educational level, sun exposure, smoking and sun protection behaviours.<br><br>RESULTS: Pigment spots and wrinkles on the face were present among all three ethnic groups and differences were influenced by age and anatomical sites independently of further influencing factors. Pigment spots on the forehead were most pronounced over the whole age range in Chinese and German women and least developed in Japanese. Pigment spots on cheeks were a typical extrinsic skin an ageing sign in the two East Asian populations in all age groups. However, in older German women they reach the same level as observed in the two East Asian populations. In contrast, pigment spots on arms and hands were significantly more pronounced in German women &#x2265;45years of age. Wrinkles were not exclusively a skin an ageing sign of German women, but were also very pronounced in Chinese women on forehead, between the eyebrows and in the crow's feet area.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These results corroborate the previous notion that the occurrence of pigments spots and wrinkles is different between Caucasians and East Asians. In addition, this study shows that this difference depends on age and anatomical site and that it also differs between different ethnic groups from East Asia.}, }
@article {pmid27287249, year = {2016}, author = {Emery, NJ and Clayton, NS}, title = {An avian perspective on simulating other minds.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {44}, number = {3}, pages = {203-204}, pmid = {27287249}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Brain ; *Cognition ; }, abstract = {An exciting new study on ravens by Bugnyar, Reber, and Buckner (2016) raises important questions about whether nonhuman animals are capable of simulating other minds, rather than theorizing about them.}, }
@article {pmid27286247, year = {2016}, author = {Asakawa-Haas, K and Schiestl, M and Bugnyar, T and Massen, JJ}, title = {Partner Choice in Raven (Corvus corax) Cooperation.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {11}, number = {6}, pages = {e0156962}, pmid = {27286247}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Choice Behavior ; Cooperative Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; Exploratory Behavior ; Female ; Male ; Recognition, Psychology ; *Sexual Behavior, Animal ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Although social animals frequently make decisions about when or with whom to cooperate, little is known about the underlying mechanisms of partner choice. Most previous studies compared different dyads' performances, though did not allow an actual choice among partners. We tested eleven ravens, Corvus corax, in triads, giving them first the choice to cooperate with either a highly familiar or a rather unfamiliar partner and, second, with either a friend or a non-friend using a cooperative string-pulling task. In either test, the ravens had a second choice and could cooperate with the other partner, given that this one had not pulled the string in the meantime. We show that during the experiments, these partner ravens indeed learn to wait and inhibit pulling, respectively. Moreover, the results of these two experiments show that ravens' preferences for a specific cooperation partner are not based on familiarity. In contrast, the ravens did show a preference based on relationship quality, as they did choose to cooperate significantly more with friends than with non-friends and they were also more proficient when cooperating with a friend. In order to further identify the proximate mechanism of this preference, we designed an open-choice experiment for the whole group where all birds were free to cooperate on two separate apparatuses. This set-up allowed us to distinguish between preferences for close proximity and preferences to cooperate. The results revealed that friends preferred staying close to each other, but did not necessarily cooperate with one another, suggesting that tolerance of proximity and not relationship quality as a whole may be the driving force behind partner choice in raven cooperation. Consequently, we stress the importance of experiments that allow such titrations and, suggest that these results have important implications for the interpretations of cooperation studies that did not include open partner choice.}, }
@article {pmid27285416, year = {2016}, author = {Van Hemert, C and Handel, CM}, title = {Elements in Whole Blood of Northwestern Crows (Corvus caurinus) in Alaska, USA: No Evidence for an Association with Beak Deformities.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {52}, number = {3}, pages = {713-718}, doi = {10.7589/2015-10-287}, pmid = {27285416}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Aging ; Alaska/epidemiology ; Animals ; Beak/*pathology ; Bird Diseases/blood/epidemiology/*etiology ; Crows/*blood ; Disease Outbreaks/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {A recent outbreak of beak deformities among resident birds in Alaska, US, has raised concern about environmental contamination as a possible underlying factor. We measured whole blood concentrations of 30 essential and nonessential elements to determine whether any were associated with beak deformities in Northwestern Crows (Corvus caurinus). We tested for differences between 1) adults with versus those without beak deformities and 2) unaffected adults versus juveniles. Crows with beak deformities had slightly higher levels of barium, molybdenum, and vanadium (all P<0.05), but concentrations were generally low and within the range of values reported from other apparently healthy wild birds. Concentrations of several elements, including selenium, were higher in birds without versus birds with beak deformities (all P<0.05), a difference that may be explained in part by compromised foraging ability associated with the deformities. Adult crows had higher concentrations of cadmium, silicon, and zinc than juveniles (all P<0.05), although differences were relatively small and values were similar to those from other wild birds. Our results suggest that neither selenium nor other tested elements are likely to be causing beak deformities in Alaskan crows. We also provide the first data on elemental concentrations in Northwestern Crows. Levels of selenium far exceeded those typically found in passerine birds and were similar to those in marine-associated waterfowl, suggesting that background levels should be interpreted relative to a species' environment.}, }
@article {pmid27285414, year = {2016}, author = {Ley, DH and Hawley, DM and Geary, SJ and Dhondt, AA}, title = {House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus) Conjunctivitis, and Mycoplasma spp. Isolated from North American Wild Birds, 1994-2015.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {52}, number = {3}, pages = {669-673}, pmid = {27285414}, issn = {1943-3700}, support = {R01 GM085232/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 GM105245/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Bird Diseases/*microbiology ; Conjunctivitis, Bacterial/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; *Finches ; Mycoplasma/classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; Mycoplasma Infections/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; North America/epidemiology ; Retrospective Studies ; }, abstract = {Sampling wild birds for mycoplasma culture has been key to the study of House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus) conjunctivitis, yielding isolates of Mycoplasma gallisepticum spanning the temporal and geographic ranges of disease from emergence to endemicity. Faced with the challenges and costs of sample collection over time and from remote locations for submission to our laboratory for mycoplasma culture, protocols evolved to achieve a practical optimum. Herein we report making M. gallisepticum isolates from House Finches almost every year since the disease emerged in 1994, and we now have 227 isolates from 17 states. Our wild bird host range for M. gallisepticum isolates includes Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata), American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis), Lesser Goldfinch (Spinus psaltria), Purple Finch (Haemorhous purpureus), Evening Grosbeak (Coccothraustes vespertinus), and herein first reports for Western Scrub-jay (Aphelocoma californica), and American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos). By collecting and identifying isolates from birds with clinical signs similar to those of House Finch conjunctivitis, we also expanded the known host range of Mycoplasma sturni and obtained isolates from additional wild bird species. Accumulating evidence shows that a diverse range of wild bird species may carry or have been exposed to M. gallisepticum in the US, as in Europe and Asia. Therefore, the emergence of a pathogenic M. gallisepticum strain in House Finches may actually be the exception that has allowed us to identify the broader epidemiologic picture.}, }
@article {pmid27282438, year = {2016}, author = {Greggor, AL and McIvor, GE and Clayton, NS and Thornton, A}, title = {Contagious risk taking: social information and context influence wild jackdaws' responses to novelty and risk.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {27764}, pmid = {27282438}, issn = {2045-2322}, support = {BB/H021817/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Choice Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; *Exploratory Behavior ; Feeding Behavior ; Motivation ; Risk Factors ; *Risk-Taking ; Seasons ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Although wild animals increasingly encounter human-produced food and objects, it is unknown how they learn to discriminate beneficial from dangerous novelty. Since social learning allows animals to capitalize on the risk-taking of others, and avoid endangering themselves, social learning should be used around novel and unpredictable stimuli. However, it is unclear whether animals use social cues equally around all types of novelty and at all times of year. We assessed whether wild, individually marked jackdaws-a highly neophobic, yet adaptable species-are equally influenced by social cues to consume novel, palatable foods and to approach a startling object. We conducted these tests across two seasons, and found that in both seasons observers were more likely to consume novel foods after seeing a demonstrator do so. In contrast, observers only followed the demonstrator in foraging next to the object during breeding season. Throughout the year more birds were wary of consuming novel foods than wary of approaching the object, potentially leading to jackdaws' greater reliance on social information about food. Jackdaws' dynamic social cue usage demonstrates the importance of context in predicting how social information is used around novelty, and potentially indicates the conditions that facilitate animals' adjustment to anthropogenic disturbance.}, }
@article {pmid27263281, year = {2016}, author = {Voronov, LN and Konstantinov, VY}, title = {[Method of Calculating the Distance Between the Classes of the Structural Components of the Forebrain Birds].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {66}, number = {1}, pages = {113-124}, pmid = {27263281}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/physiology ; Neuroglia/*physiology ; Neurons/*physiology ; Prosencephalon/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The method of calculating the distance between the classes of the structural components of the brain of birds. Compared interclass distances of glia, neurons and neuroglial complexes in the forebrain hooded crow (Corvus cornix) (a bird with a highly rational activity) and common crossbill (Loxia curvirostra) (birds with a medium level of rational activity).}, }
@article {pmid27262445, year = {2016}, author = {Ballester-Plané, J and Laporta-Hoyos, O and Macaya, A and Póo, P and Meléndez-Plumed, M and Vázquez, &#xc9; and Delgado, I and Zubiaurre-Elorza, L and Narberhaus, A and Toro-Tamargo, E and Russi, ME and Tenorio, V and Segarra, D and Pueyo, R}, title = {Measuring intellectual ability in cerebral palsy: The comparison of three tests and their neuroimaging correlates.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {56}, number = {}, pages = {83-98}, doi = {10.1016/j.ridd.2016.04.009}, pmid = {27262445}, issn = {1873-3379}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Basal Ganglia/diagnostic imaging ; Brain/*diagnostic imaging ; Cerebral Palsy/diagnostic imaging/*psychology ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/diagnostic imaging/*psychology ; Intelligence Tests ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuroimaging ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Thalamus/diagnostic imaging ; Wechsler Scales ; White Matter/diagnostic imaging ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Standard intelligence scales require both verbal and manipulative responses, making it difficult to use in cerebral palsy and leading to underestimate their actual performance. This study aims to compare three intelligence tests suitable for the heterogeneity of cerebral palsy in order to identify which one(s) could be more appropriate to use. Forty-four subjects with bilateral dyskinetic cerebral palsy (26 male, mean age 23 years) conducted the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM), the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-3rd (PPVT-III) and the Wechsler Nonverbal Scale of Ability (WNV). Furthermore, a comprehensive neuropsychological battery and magnetic resonance imaging were assessed. The results show that PPVT-III gives limited information on cognitive performance and brain correlates, getting lower intelligence quotient scores. The WNV provides similar outcomes as RCPM, but cases with severe motor impairment were unable to perform it. Finally, the RCPM gives more comprehensive information on cognitive performance, comprising not only visual but also verbal functions. It is also sensitive to the structural state of the brain, being related to basal ganglia, thalamus and white matter areas such as superior longitudinal fasciculus. So, the RCPM may be considered a standardized easy-to-administer tool with great potential in both clinical and research fields of bilateral cerebral palsy.}, }
@article {pmid27260356, year = {2016}, author = {Taff, CC and Weis, AM and Wheeler, S and Hinton, MG and Weimer, BC and Barker, CM and Jones, M and Logsdon, R and Smith, WA and Boyce, WM and Townsend, AK}, title = {Influence of Host Ecology and Behavior on Campylobacter jejuni Prevalence and Environmental Contamination Risk in a Synanthropic Wild Bird Species.}, journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology}, volume = {82}, number = {15}, pages = {4811-4820}, pmid = {27260356}, issn = {1098-5336}, mesh = {Animal Migration ; Animals ; Animals, Wild/*microbiology/physiology ; Bird Diseases/*microbiology/physiopathology ; Campylobacter jejuni/classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Crows/*microbiology/physiology ; Disease Reservoirs/*microbiology ; Ecosystem ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Campylobacter jejuni is a foodborne pathogen that often leads to human infections through the consumption of contaminated poultry. Wild birds may play a role in the transmission of C. jejuni by acting as reservoir hosts. Despite ample evidence that wild birds harbor C. jejuni, few studies have addressed the role of host ecology in transmission to domestic animals or humans. We tested the hypothesis that host social behavior and habitat play a major role in driving transmission risk. C. jejuni infection and host ecology were studied simultaneously in wild American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) in Davis, CA, over 3 years. We found that 178 of 337 samples tested were culture positive (53%), with infection varying by season and host age. Among adult crows, infection rates were highest during the winter, when migrants return and crows form large communal roosts. Nestlings had the highest risk of infection, and whole-genome sequencing supports the observation of direct transmission between nestlings. We deployed global positioning system (GPS) receivers to quantify habitat use by crows; space use was nonrandom, with crows preferentially occupying some habitats while avoiding others. This behavior drastically amplified the risk of environmental contamination from feces in specific locations. This study demonstrates that social behavior contributes to infection within species and that habitat use leads to a heterogeneous risk of cross-species transmission.<br><br>IMPORTANCE: Campylobacter jejuni is the most common cause of gastroenteritis in industrialized countries. Despite efforts to reduce the colonization of poultry flocks and eventual infection of humans, the incidence of human C. jejuni infection has remained high. Because wild birds can harbor strains of C. jejuni that eventually infect humans, there has long been speculation that wild birds might act as an important reservoir in the C. jejuni infection cycle. We simultaneously studied infection prevalence, social behavior, and movement ecology in wild American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos). We found that social behavior contributed to patterns of infection and that movement behavior resulted in some areas having a high risk of transmission while others had a low risk. The incorporation of ecological data into studies of C. jejuni in wild birds has the potential to resolve when and how wild birds contribute to domestic animal and human C. jejuni infection, leading to better control of initial poultry contamination.}, }
@article {pmid27242597, year = {2016}, author = {Mungkhetklang, C and Crewther, SG and Bavin, EL and Goharpey, N and Parsons, C}, title = {Comparison of Measures of Ability in Adolescents with Intellectual Disability.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {683}, pmid = {27242597}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Finding the most appropriate intelligence test for adolescents with Intellectual Disability (ID) is challenging given their limited language, attention, perceptual, and motor skills and ability to stay on task. The study compared performance of 23 adolescents with ID on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Fourth Edition (WISC-IV), one of the most widely used intelligence tests, and three non-verbal IQ tests, the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM), the Test of Non-verbal Intelligence-Fourth Edition and the Wechsler Non-verbal test of Ability. Results showed that the WISC-IV Full Scale IQ raw and scaled scores were highly correlated with total scores from the three non-verbal tests, although the correlations were higher for raw scores, suggesting they may lead to better understanding of within group differences and what individuals with ID can do at the time of assessment. All participants attempted more questions on the non-verbal tests than the verbal. A preliminary analysis showed that adolescents with ID without ASD (n = 15) achieved higher scores overall than those presenting with ID+ASD (n = 8). Our findings support the view that short non-verbal tests are more likely to give a similar IQ result as obtained from the WISC-IV. In terms of the time to administer and the stress for participants, they are more appropriate for assessing adolescents with ID.}, }
@article {pmid27220601, year = {2016}, author = {Choi, SJ and Lee, SN and Kim, K and Joo, da H and Shin, S and Lee, J and Lee, HK and Kim, J and Kwon, SB and Kim, MJ and Ahn, KJ and An, IS and An, S and Cha, HJ}, title = {Biological effects of rutin on skin aging.}, journal = {International journal of molecular medicine}, volume = {38}, number = {1}, pages = {357-363}, doi = {10.3892/ijmm.2016.2604}, pmid = {27220601}, issn = {1791-244X}, mesh = {Adult ; Cell Death/drug effects ; Cell Survival/drug effects ; Cellular Senescence/drug effects ; Collagen Type I/genetics/metabolism ; Dermis/pathology ; Elastic Modulus/drug effects ; Elasticity ; Female ; Fibroblasts/drug effects/pathology ; Humans ; Hydrogen Peroxide/toxicity ; Matrix Metalloproteinase 1/genetics/metabolism ; Middle Aged ; RNA, Messenger/genetics/metabolism ; Rutin/*pharmacology ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Skin Cream/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {Rutin, a quercetin glycoside is a member of the bioflavonoid family which is known to possess antioxidant properties. In the present study, we aimed to confirm the anti‑aging effects of rutin on human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) and human skin. We examined the effects of rutin using a cell viability assay, senescence-associated-β-galactosidase assay, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and by measuring reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging activity in vitro. To examine the effects of rutin in vivo, rutin‑containing cream was applied to human skin. A double-blind clinical study was conducted in 40 subjects aged between 30-50 years and divided into control and experimental groups. The test material was applied for 4 weeks. After 2 and 4 weeks, dermal density, skin elasticity, the length and area of crow's feet, and number of under-eye wrinkles following the application of either the control or the rutin-containing cream were analyzed. Rutin increased the mRNA expression of collagen, type I, alpha 1 (COL1A1) and decreased the mRNA expression of matrix metallopeptidase 1 (MMP1) in HDFs. We verified that ROS scavenging activity was stimulated by rutin in a dose‑dependent manner and we identified that rutin exerted protective effects under conditions of oxidative stress. Furthermore, rutin increased skin elasticity and decreased the length, area and number of wrinkles. The consequences of human aging are primarily visible on the skin, such as increased wrinkling, sagging and decreased elasticity. Overall, this study demonstrated the biological effects of rutin on ROS-induced skin aging.}, }
@article {pmid27220061, year = {2017}, author = {Zengel, B and Ambler, JK and McCarthy, RJ and Skowronski, JJ}, title = {Spontaneous trait inference and spontaneous trait transference are both unaffected by prior evaluations of informants.}, journal = {The Journal of social psychology}, volume = {157}, number = {3}, pages = {382-387}, doi = {10.1080/00224545.2016.1192099}, pmid = {27220061}, issn = {1940-1183}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Character ; *Facial Recognition ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Recognition, Psychology ; *Social Perception ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {This article reports results from a study in which participants encountered either (a) previously known informants who were positive (e.g. Abraham Lincoln), neutral (e.g., Jay Leno), or negative (e.g., Adolf Hitler), or (b) previously unknown informants. The informants ostensibly described either a trait-implicative positive behavior, a trait-implicative negative behavior, or a neutral behavior. These descriptions were framed as either the behavior of the informant or the behavior of another person. Results yielded evidence of informant-trait linkages for both self-informants and for informants who described another person. These effects were not moderated by informant type, behavior valence, or the congruency or incongruency between the prior knowledge of the informant and the behavior valence. Results are discussed in terms of theories of Spontaneous Trait Inference and Spontaneous Trait Transference.}, }
@article {pmid27214496, year = {2016}, author = {Parker, D and Sniatynski, MK and Mandrusiak, D and Rubin, JE}, title = {Extended-spectrum β-lactamase producing Escherichia coli isolated from wild birds in Saskatoon, Canada.}, journal = {Letters in applied microbiology}, volume = {63}, number = {1}, pages = {11-15}, doi = {10.1111/lam.12589}, pmid = {27214496}, issn = {1472-765X}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/*pharmacology ; Birds/*microbiology ; Canada ; Escherichia coli/*drug effects/isolation &amp; purification/metabolism ; Escherichia coli Infections/microbiology/*veterinary ; Humans ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; beta-Lactam Resistance/*physiology ; beta-Lactamases/*pharmacology ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: The epidemiology of antimicrobial resistance is extremely complex and involves humans, domestic animals (companion and agricultural) and wildlife. In North America there have been very few investigations targeting antimicrobial-resistant organisms in wildlife. In this study, we characterized the susceptibility of Escherichia coli isolated from 75 birds including great horned owls, crows and American robins from the region of Saskatoon, Canada. The recovery rate of E. coli varied significantly between species from 44·8% of robins to 92% of crows. The majority (88·2%) of colonized birds carried only pan-susceptible organisms. Among isolates resistant to at least one antimicrobial, ampicillin resistance was most commonly identified. Three birds carried multidrug-resistant isolates (resistant to ≥3 drug classes), and extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing organisms (CTX-M-15 and SHV2a) were grown from two. We identified a significant relationship between the presence of drug-resistant E. coli and an urban (vs rural) origin of the bird. Our findings suggest that crows, due to their ubiquity and high rate of colonization with E. coli, may be efficient targets for future resistance surveillance studies targeting urban wildlife.<br><br>Antimicrobial resistance is a global problem affecting people and animals. Few investigations describing the presence drug-resistant organisms in wildlife in North America have been published. In this study, resistant Escherichia coli, including extended-spectrum &#x3b2;-lactamase-producing strains, were isolated from wild birds in the Saskatoon region of Canada. We found that the recovery rate of E.&#xa0;coli varied significantly by species and was highest among crows. There was also a significant association between drug resistance and urban vs rural birds. Our results suggest that crows may be a good target for future studies investigating antimicrobial resistance in urban wildlife.}, }
@article {pmid27206908, year = {2016}, author = {Ohyama, K and Koike, H and Hashimoto, R and Takahashi, M and Kawagashira, Y and Iijima, M and Katsuno, M and Sobue, G}, title = {Intraepidermal nerve fibre density in POEMS (Crow-Fukase) syndrome and the correlation with sural nerve pathology.}, journal = {Journal of the neurological sciences}, volume = {365}, number = {}, pages = {207-211}, doi = {10.1016/j.jns.2016.04.023}, pmid = {27206908}, issn = {1878-5883}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Biopsy ; Collagen Type IV/metabolism ; Epidermis/*innervation/pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Nerve Fibers, Unmyelinated/*pathology ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications/*pathology ; Sural Nerve/*pathology ; Ubiquitin Thiolesterase/metabolism ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To examine intraepidermal nerve fibre densities (IENFDs) in patients with polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal gammopathy and skin change (POEMS) syndrome.<br><br>METHODS: The IENFDs of 11 patients with POEMS syndrome were estimated. We determined whether IENFD was associated with patient clinical features or the estimated number of nerve fibres on complete cross-sections of biopsied sural nerves.<br><br>RESULTS: IENFD was significantly reduced (9.7&#xb1;4.4fibres/mm) compared with normal controls (p<0.05), although the individual values varied from 1.4 to 14.4fibres/mm. The presence of glucose intolerance was significantly associated with a reduction of IENFD (p<0.05). The number of unmyelinated fibres was preserved at the sural nerve level and was not correlated with IENFD. In contrast, the number of myelinated fibres was correlated with IENFD (p<0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Some of the patients presented with a severe IENFD reduction. Because the number of unmyelinated fibres was well preserved at the level of the sural nerve biopsy, this severe reduction may indicate involvement at the most distal nerve terminals of unmyelinated fibres. Although the reduction of IENFD becomes evident as polyneuropathy becomes severe, the effects of glucose intolerance should also be considered in patients with moderate to severe reductions.}, }
@article {pmid27199503, year = {2016}, author = {Antony, BJ and Chen, M and Carass, A and Jedynak, BM and Al-Louzi, O and Solomon, SD and Saidha, S and Calabresi, PA and Prince, JL}, title = {Voxel Based Morphometry in Optical Coherence Tomography: Validation &amp; Core Findings.}, journal = {Proceedings of SPIE--the International Society for Optical Engineering}, volume = {9788}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {27199503}, issn = {0277-786X}, support = {R01 EY024655/EY/NEI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 NS082347/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; R21 EY022150/EY/NEI NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the human retina is now becoming established as an important modality for the detection and tracking of various ocular diseases. Voxel based morphometry (VBM) is a long standing neuroimaging analysis technique that allows for the exploration of the regional differences in the brain. There has been limited work done in developing registration based methods for OCT, which has hampered the advancement of VBM analyses in OCT based population studies. Following on from our recent development of an OCT registration method, we explore the potential benefits of VBM analysis in cohorts of healthy controls (HCs) and multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Specifically, we validate the stability of VBM analysis in two pools of HCs showing no significant difference between the two populations. Additionally, we also present a retrospective study of age and sex matched HCs and relapsing remitting MS patients, demonstrating results consistent with the reported literature while providing insight into the retinal changes associated with this MS subtype.}, }
@article {pmid27195059, year = {2016}, author = {Ostojić, L and Cheke, LG and Shaw, RC and Legg, EW and Clayton, NS}, title = {Desire-state attribution: Benefits of a novel paradigm using the food-sharing behavior of Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius).}, journal = {Communicative &amp; integrative biology}, volume = {9}, number = {2}, pages = {e1134065}, pmid = {27195059}, issn = {1942-0889}, abstract = {In recent years, we have investigated the possibility that Eurasian jay food sharing might rely on desire-state attribution. The female's desire for a particular type of food can be decreased by sating her on it (specific satiety) and the food sharing paradigm can be used to test whether the male's sharing pattern reflects the female's current desire. Our previous findings show that the male shares the food that the female currently wants. Here, we consider 3 simpler mechanisms that might explain the male's behavior: behavior reading, lack of self-other differentiation and behavioral rules. We illustrate how we have already addressed these issues and how our food sharing paradigm can be further adapted to answer outstanding questions. The flexibility with which the food sharing paradigm can be applied to rule out alternative mechanisms makes it a useful tool to study desire-state attribution in jays and other species that share food.}, }
@article {pmid27189064, year = {2016}, author = {Freund, D and Wheeler, SS and Townsend, AK and Boyce, WM and Ernest, HB and Cicero, C and Sehgal, RN}, title = {Genetic sequence data reveals widespread sharing of Leucocytozoon lineages in corvids.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {115}, number = {9}, pages = {3557-3565}, pmid = {27189064}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; Crows/*parasitology ; Cytochromes b/genetics ; DNA, Protozoan/genetics ; Haemosporida/*classification/enzymology/*genetics ; Host Specificity/*genetics ; Phylogeny ; Protozoan Infections, Animal/*parasitology ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Leucocytozoon, a widespread hemosporidian blood parasite that infects a broad group of avian families, has been studied in corvids (family: Corvidae) for over a century. Current taxonomic classification indicates that Leucocytozoon sakharoffi infects crows and related Corvus spp., while Leucocytozoon berestneffi infects magpies (Pica spp.) and blue jays (Cyanocitta sp.). This intrafamily host specificity was based on the experimental transmissibility of the parasites, as well as slight differences in their morphology and life cycle development. Genetic sequence data from Leucocytozoon spp. infecting corvids is scarce, and until the present study, sequence data has not been analyzed to confirm the current taxonomic distinctions. Here, we predict the phylogenetic relationships of Leucocytozoon cytochrome b lineages recovered from infected American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos), yellow-billed magpies (Pica nuttalli), and Steller's jays (Cyanocitta stelleri) to explore the host specificity pattern of L. sakharoffi and L. berestneffi. Phylogenetic reconstruction revealed a single large clade containing nearly every lineage recovered from the three host species, while showing no evidence of the expected distinction between L. sakharoffi and L. berestneffi. In addition, five of the detected lineages were recovered from both crows and magpies. This absence of the previously described host specificity in corvid Leucocytozoon spp. suggests that L. sakharoffi and L. berestneffi be reexamined from a taxonomic perspective.}, }
@article {pmid27188825, year = {2016}, author = {Scaglione, FE and Cannizzo, FT and Pregel, P and Perez Rodriguez, AD and Bollo, E}, title = {Blood parasites in hooded crows (Corvus corone cornix) in Northwest Italy.}, journal = {Veterinaria italiana}, volume = {52}, number = {2}, pages = {111-116}, doi = {10.12834/VetIt.110.307.2}, pmid = {27188825}, issn = {1828-1427}, mesh = {Animals ; Apicomplexa/*isolation &amp; purification ; Crows/*blood/*parasitology ; Female ; Italy ; Male ; Plasmodium/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Haemoparasites and their effects on hooded crows (Corvus corone cornix) are poorly studied. The aims are to evaluate the prevalence of Haemoproteus spp./Plasmodium spp. or Leucocytozoon spp., to correlate this with gross and histopathological findings, and to investigate the association among infection and geographical origin, age, gender, parasite distribution and prevalence among organs. Hooded crows (n = 47) were collected within a regional culling programme from 3 districts in the province of Turin (Italy) and subjected to necropsy. Histological and molecular analyses were carried out on some tissues. Leucocytozoon spp. was detected in 46 crows (97.9%) by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), whereas 28 birds (59.6%) were found to be positive for Haemoproteus spp./Plasmodium spp. The distribution of parasites in several organs varied significantly, showing that Leucocytozoon spp. is ubiquitous in organs in contrast with Haemoproteus spp./Plasmodium spp., which have a specific predilection for spleen and lungs. The prevalence of Haemoproteus spp./Plasmodium spp. also differed significantly among the crows captured in the areas of the study. The high prevalence of haemoparasites emphasizes the success of ornithophilic vectors and the susceptibility of this species to infection. Differences in prevalence among the sites are probably due to orographic features of the areas, variations in vector species and density, or to crow population size or structure. In spite of the high infection rate, no gross and histological lesions were found. This finding further suggests an evolutionary adaptation between crows and avian blood parasites.}, }
@article {pmid27186345, year = {2016}, author = {Li, X and Yang, Z and Liao, H and Zhang, Z and Huang, X and Bao, Z}, title = {Chromosomal mapping of tandem repeats in the Yesso Scallop, Patinopecten yessoensis (Jay, 1857), utilizing fluorescence in situ hybridization.}, journal = {Comparative cytogenetics}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {157-169}, pmid = {27186345}, issn = {1993-0771}, abstract = {Construction of cytogenetic maps can provide important information for chromosome identification, chromosome evolution and genomic research. However, it hasn't been conducted in many scallop species yet. In the present study, we attempted to map 12 fosmid clones containing tandem repeats by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) in the Yesso scallop Patinopecten yessoensis (Jay, 1857). The results showed 6 fosmid clones were successfully mapped and distributed in 6 different pairs of chromosomes. Three clones were respectively assigned to a pair of metacentric chromosomes, a pair of submetacentric chromosomes and a pair of telocentric chromosomes and the remaining 3 clones showed their loci on three different pairs of subtelocentric chromosomes by co-hybridization. In summary, totally 8 pairs of chromosomes of the Yesso scallop were identified by 6 fosmid clones and two rDNA probes. Furthermore, 6 tandem repeats of 5 clones were sequenced and could be developed as chromosome specific markers for the Yesso scallop. The successful localization of fosmid clones will undoubtedly facilitate the integration of linkage groups with cytogenetic map and genomic research for the Yesso scallop.}, }
@article {pmid27183495, year = {2017}, author = {Song, H and Jinyu, A}, title = {The relationship between executive functions and IQ in Korean children and the comparison with Chinese children.}, journal = {Applied neuropsychology. Child}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {158-165}, doi = {10.1080/21622965.2015.1136631}, pmid = {27183495}, issn = {2162-2973}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Asian People ; Child ; *Cross-Cultural Comparison ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Regression Analysis ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {This study aimed to investigate the relationship between perceived/performance-based executive function and IQ. Additionally, the relationship between perceived executive function and intelligence was investigated cross-culturally between South Korea and China. Korean children (60; M = 34, F = 26, Mean age = 10.35) were included in study 1, and Korean children (43, M = 23, F = 20, Mean age = 10.05) and Chinese children (56; M = 29, F = 27, Mean age = 10.40) were included in study 2. The Korean-Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-IV, the Stroop test, the CTT-2, and the executive function questionnaire were used for Korean subjects, and the Raven's matrix test and the executive function questionnaire were used for Korean and Chinese subjects. Multiple regression showed that CTT-2(RT), emotional control difficulty, and Color Word within a 45' Stroop test trial were significant predictors of total IQ. The cross-cultural analysis showed a statistically significant difference between the two countries in the emotional control aspect of perceived executive function. There were no interactions between country and intelligence. In conclusion, intelligence was related to overall executive function. Korean children and Chinese children showed cultural differences in processing emotion. These results are expected to contribute to developing therapeutic strategies for executive function in children and to exchanging these strategies between Korea and China.}, }
@article {pmid27178568, year = {2016}, author = {Viterbo, F and Joethy, J and Brock, RS}, title = {Aesthetic and Non-aesthetic Indications for Orbicularis Oculi Myectomy.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {40}, number = {4}, pages = {466-474}, doi = {10.1007/s00266-016-0638-5}, pmid = {27178568}, issn = {1432-5241}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Blepharospasm/drug therapy/*surgery ; Botulinum Toxins/administration &amp; dosage ; Cohort Studies ; Esthetics ; Facial Muscles/drug effects/*surgery ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Oculomotor Muscles/drug effects/*surgery ; Retrospective Studies ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; Risk Assessment ; Skin Aging ; Surgery, Plastic/methods ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Crows' feet wrinkles are caused by the action of the orbicularis oculi muscle on overlying skin. Treatment options range from botulinum toxin to a multitude of surgical methods. We first described our technique in 2003 and refined it in 2006. We highlight the evolution of our technique and look at our results to assess the effectiveness of our technique.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to show our experience of 13&#xa0;years in 134 patients with our technique of orbicularis oculi myectomy.<br><br>METHODS: From September 2000 to July 2013, we operated on 134 patients with an age range of 28-77&#xa0;years. Of these patients, 104 had myectomies via lifting and 22 via a blepharoplasty approach. Five patients had myectomies for treatment of blepharospasm and a further three patients to restore symmetry in facial palsy. An evaluation of the results was performed by two medical students.<br><br>RESULTS: Our results showed reduction of the wrinkles in all cases. For the statistical analysis the Wilcoxon test was performed. The p value was less than 0.001 showing a significant reduction of crows' feet wrinkles in both sides when the orbicularis myectomy was performed, via blepharoplasty or lifting. For myectomy performed for blepharospasm or facial palsy, the statistical analysis was not done due to the low numbers.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In the appropriate patient, orbicularis oculi myectomy is an effective and long-term treatment for crows' feet wrinkles with a low risk of complications and high patient satisfaction.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .}, }
@article {pmid27172294, year = {2016}, author = {Shergis, JL and Wu, L and Zhang, AL and Guo, X and Lu, C and Xue, CC}, title = {Herbal medicine for adults with asthma: A systematic review.}, journal = {The Journal of asthma : official journal of the Association for the Care of Asthma}, volume = {53}, number = {6}, pages = {650-659}, doi = {10.3109/02770903.2015.1101473}, pmid = {27172294}, issn = {1532-4303}, mesh = {Adult ; Anti-Asthmatic Agents/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Asthma/*drug therapy ; Humans ; Phytotherapy/adverse effects/*methods ; Respiratory Function Tests ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Many people with asthma use herbal medicines to help reduce symptoms and improve asthma control.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To update the systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials of herbal medicine for adult asthma.<br><br>DATA SOURCES: Nine English and Chinese databases were searched (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, CENTRAL, AMED, CBM, CNKI, CQVIP, Wanfang).<br><br>STUDY SELECTIONS: Herbal medicines combined with routine pharmacotherapies compared with the same pharmacotherapies alone or placebo. Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and GRADE Summary of Findings tables were used to evaluate methodological quality.<br><br>RESULTS: Twenty-nine (29) studies involving 3,001 participants were included. Herbal interventions used multi-ingredients such as licorice root, crow-dipper, astragali, and angelica. Compared with routine pharmacotherapies alone, herbal medicines as add-on therapy improved lung function (FEV1: MD 7.81%, 95% CI 5.79, 9.83, I(2) = 63%; PEFR: MD 65.14&#xa0;L/min, 95% CI 58.87, 71.41, I(2) = 21%); asthma control (MD 2.47 points, 95% CI 1.64, 3.29, I(2) = 55%); reduced salbutamol usage (MD -1.14 puffs/day, 95% CI -2.20, -0.09, I(2) = 92%); and reduced acute asthma exacerbations over one year (MD -1.20, 95% CI -1.82, -0.58, one study). Compared with placebo plus pharmacotherapies herbal medicines as add-on therapy improved lung function (FEV1: MD 15.83%, 95% CI 13.54, 18.12 and PEFR: MD 55.20&#xa0;L/min, 95% CI 33.41, 76.99). Other outcomes were not reported in these placebo studies. Included studies were low to moderate quality. Adverse events were rare.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Herbal medicines combined with routine pharmacotherapies improved asthma outcomes greater than pharmacotherapies alone. Included studies did not blind participants therefore more studies that address such weaknesses are warranted.}, }
@article {pmid27165076, year = {2016}, author = {Mazhirina, KG and Mel'nikov, ME and Pokrovskii, MA and Petrovskii, ED and Savelov, AA and Shtark, MB}, title = {Raven's Progressive Matrices in the Lexicon of Dynamic Mapping of the Brain (MRI).}, journal = {Bulletin of experimental biology and medicine}, volume = {160}, number = {6}, pages = {850-856}, doi = {10.1007/s10517-016-3325-2}, pmid = {27165076}, issn = {1573-8221}, mesh = {Adult ; Brain/*physiology ; Brain Mapping/*methods ; Cognition ; Humans ; Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Models, Neurological ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, we studied intracerebral dynamics during completion of Raven's Progressive Matrices test. Solving the test organized in sets of progressively increasing difficulty cause changes in cerebellar activation functionally related to cognitive activities and operations. As the tasks became more complicated, we observed gradual suppression of the activity of default mode network (DMN). The most pronounced changes in cerebral activation patterns occurred the second set of the test and involved associative somatosensory area and Wernicke's area that is known to play an important role in cognitive processes associated with synthesis and analysis of information.}, }
@article {pmid27163803, year = {2016}, author = {Ueda, Y and Satoh, M and Tabei, K and Kida, H and Ii, Y and Asahi, M and Maeda, M and Sakuma, H and Tomimoto, H}, title = {Neuropsychological Features of Microbleeds and Cortical Microinfarct Detected by High Resolution Magnetic Resonance Imaging.}, journal = {Journal of Alzheimer's disease : JAD}, volume = {53}, number = {1}, pages = {315-325}, doi = {10.3233/JAD-151008}, pmid = {27163803}, issn = {1875-8908}, mesh = {Aged ; Alzheimer Disease/*complications/diagnostic imaging ; Cerebral Hemorrhage/*complications/diagnostic imaging ; Cerebral Infarction/*complications/diagnostic imaging ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnostic imaging/*etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; *Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Mental Status and Dementia Tests ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Retrospective Studies ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Lobar microbleeds (MBs) and cortical microinfarct (CMI) are caused by cerebral amyloid angiopathy in the elderly and increase in number in Alzheimer's disease.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to elucidate the effects of lobar MBs and CMIs on cognitive function.<br><br>METHODS: The subjects were outpatients who visited the memory clinic of Mie University Hospital. Among 120 subjects, 109 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. We quantitatively estimated MBs and CMIs using double inversion recovery and 3D FLAIR images of 3T MRI. Neuropsychological assessments included intellectual, memory, constructional, and frontal lobe function.<br><br>RESULTS: Of the 109 patients, MBs and CMIs were observed in 68 (62%) and 17 (16%) subjects, respectively. Of the 68 patients with MBs, lobar MBs were found in 28, deep MBs in 8 and mixed MBs in 31. In each age group, the number of MBs increased in patients with CMI (CMI+ group) than those without CMI (CMI- group), and MBs and CMIs additively decreased MMSE scores. In psychological screens, the MBs+ group with more than 10 MBs showed significantly lower scores of category- and letter-WF than MB- group. The CMI+ group showed significantly worse scores than CMI- group in Japanese Raven's coloured progressive matrices, Trail Making Test-A, category- and letter-word fluency and copy and drawing of figures.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Lobar MBs and CMIs in the elderly frequently coexisted with each other and additively contributed to cognitive impairment, which is mainly predisposed to frontal lobe function.}, }
@article {pmid27160894, year = {2016}, author = {Jani, S}, title = {The Consult : Based on "The Raven" by Edgar Allen Poe.}, journal = {Academic psychiatry : the journal of the American Association of Directors of Psychiatric Residency Training and the Association for Academic Psychiatry}, volume = {40}, number = {6}, pages = {967}, doi = {10.1007/s40596-016-0545-8}, pmid = {27160894}, issn = {1545-7230}, }
@article {pmid27152224, year = {2016}, author = {Kabadayi, C and Taylor, LA and von Bayern, AM and Osvath, M}, title = {Ravens, New Caledonian crows and jackdaws parallel great apes in motor self-regulation despite smaller brains.}, journal = {Royal Society open science}, volume = {3}, number = {4}, pages = {160104}, pmid = {27152224}, issn = {2054-5703}, abstract = {Overriding motor impulses instigated by salient perceptual stimuli represent a fundamental inhibitory skill. Such motor self-regulation facilitates more rational behaviour, as it brings economy into the bodily interaction with the physical and social world. It also underlies certain complex cognitive processes including decision making. Recently, MacLean et al. (MacLean et al. 2014 Proc. Natl Acad. Sci. USA 111, 2140-2148. (doi:10.1073/pnas.1323533111)) conducted a large-scale study involving 36 species, comparing motor self-regulation across taxa. They concluded that absolute brain size predicts level of performance. The great apes were most successful. Only a few of the species tested were birds. Given birds' small brain size-in absolute terms-yet flexible behaviour, their motor self-regulation calls for closer study. Corvids exhibit some of the largest relative avian brain sizes-although small in absolute measure-as well as the most flexible cognition in the animal kingdom. We therefore tested ravens, New Caledonian crows and jackdaws in the so-called cylinder task. We found performance indistinguishable from that of great apes despite the much smaller brains. We found both absolute and relative brain volume to be a reliable predictor of performance within Aves. The complex cognition of corvids is often likened to that of great apes; our results show further that they share similar fundamental cognitive mechanisms.}, }
@article {pmid27141306, year = {2016}, author = {Haile, D and Nigatu, D and Gashaw, K and Demelash, H}, title = {Height for age z score and cognitive function are associated with Academic performance among school children aged 8-11 years old.}, journal = {Archives of public health = Archives belges de sante publique}, volume = {74}, number = {}, pages = {17}, pmid = {27141306}, issn = {0778-7367}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Academic achievement of school age children can be affected by several factors such as nutritional status, demographics, and socioeconomic factors. Though evidence about the magnitude of malnutrition is well established in Ethiopia, there is a paucity of evidence about the association of nutritional status with academic performance among the nation's school age children. Hence, this study aimed to determine how nutritional status and cognitive function are associated with academic performance of school children in Goba town, South East Ethiopia.<br><br>METHODS: An institution based cross-sectional study was conducted among 131 school age students from primary schools in Goba town enrolled during the 2013/2014 academic year. The nutritional status of students was assessed by anthropometric measurement, while the cognitive assessment was measured by the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (KABC-II) and Ravens colored progressive matrices (Raven's CPM) tests. The academic performance of the school children was measured by collecting the preceding semester academic result from the school record. Descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariable linear regression were used in the statistical analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: This study found a statistically significant positive association between all cognitive test scores and average academic performance except for number recall (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.12) and hand movements (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.08). The correlation between all cognitive test scores and mathematics score was found positive and statistically significant (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). In the multivariable linear regression model, better wealth index was significantly associated with higher mathematics score (&#xdf;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.63; 95&#xa0;% CI: 0.12-0.74). Similarly a unit change in height for age z score resulted in 2.11 unit change in mathematics score (&#xdf;&#x2009;=&#x2009;2.11; 95&#xa0;% CI: 0.002-4.21). A single unit change of wealth index resulted 0.53 unit changes in average score of all academic subjects among school age children (&#xdf;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.53; 95&#xa0;% CI: 0.11-0.95). A single unit change of age resulted 3.23 unit change in average score of all academic subjects among school age children (&#xdf;&#x2009;=&#x2009;3.23; 95&#xa0;% CI: 1.20-5.27).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Nutritional status (height for age Z score) and wealth could be modifiable factors to improve academic performance of school age children. Moreover, interventions to improve nutrition for mothers and children may be an important contributor to academic success and national economic growth in Ethiopia. Further study with strong design and large sample size is needed.}, }
@article {pmid27140785, year = {2016}, author = {Ono, YH and Akiyama, M and Oya, S and Lardiére, O and Andersen, DR and Correia, C and Jackson, K and Bradley, C}, title = {Multi time-step wavefront reconstruction for tomographic adaptive-optics systems.}, journal = {Journal of the Optical Society of America. A, Optics, image science, and vision}, volume = {33}, number = {4}, pages = {726-740}, doi = {10.1364/JOSAA.33.000726}, pmid = {27140785}, issn = {1520-8532}, abstract = {In tomographic adaptive-optics (AO) systems, errors due to tomographic wavefront reconstruction limit the performance and angular size of the scientific field of view (FoV), where AO correction is effective. We propose a multi time-step tomographic wavefront reconstruction method to reduce the tomographic error by using measurements from both the current and previous time steps simultaneously. We further outline the method to feed the reconstructor with both wind speed and direction of each turbulence layer. An end-to-end numerical simulation, assuming a multi-object AO (MOAO) system on a 30 m aperture telescope, shows that the multi time-step reconstruction increases the Strehl ratio (SR) over a scientific FoV of 10 arc min in diameter by a factor of 1.5-1.8 when compared to the classical tomographic reconstructor, depending on the guide star asterism and with perfect knowledge of wind speeds and directions. We also evaluate the multi time-step reconstruction method and the wind estimation method on the RAVEN demonstrator under laboratory setting conditions. The wind speeds and directions at multiple atmospheric layers are measured successfully in the laboratory experiment by our wind estimation method with errors below 2 ms[-1]. With these wind estimates, the multi time-step reconstructor increases the SR value by a factor of 1.2-1.5, which is consistent with a prediction from the end-to-end numerical simulation.}, }
@article {pmid27128947, year = {2016}, author = {van Vuuren, K and O'Keeffe, S and Jones, DN}, title = {"Vicious, Aggressive Bird Stalks Cyclist": The Australian Magpie (Cracticus tibicen) in the News.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {6}, number = {5}, pages = {}, pmid = {27128947}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {The Australian Magpie (Cracticus tibicen) is a common bird found in urban Australian environments where its nest defense behavior during spring brings it into conflict with humans. This article explores the role of print media in covering this conflict. Leximancer software was used to analyze newspaper reports about the Australian Magpie from a sample of 634 news stories, letters-to-the editor and opinion pieces, published in newspapers from around Australia between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2014. The results confirm that stories about these birds are primarily published in the daily regional and weekly suburban press, and that the dominant story frame concerns the risk of "swooping" behavior to cyclists and pedestrians from birds protecting their nests during the spring breeding season. The most prominent sources used by journalists are local and state government representatives, as well as members of the public. The results show that the "swooping season" has become a normal part of the annual news cycle for these publications, with the implication that discourse surrounding the Australian Magpie predominantly concerns the risk these birds pose to humans, and ignores their decline in non-urban environments.}, }
@article {pmid27128246, year = {2016}, author = {Narurkar, VA and Cohen, JL and Dayan, S and Kaminer, MS and Rivkin, A and Shamban, A and Sykes, JM and Teller, CF and Weinkle, SH and Werschler, WP and Drinkwater, A and Pucci, ML and Gallagher, CJ}, title = {A Comprehensive Approach to Multimodal Facial Aesthetic Treatment: Injection Techniques and Treatment Characteristics From the HARMONY Study.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {42 Suppl 2}, number = {}, pages = {S177-91}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000000743}, pmid = {27128246}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Antihypertensive Agents/*therapeutic use ; Bimatoprost/*therapeutic use ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; *Cosmetic Techniques/psychology ; Dermal Fillers/*administration &amp; dosage ; Drug Therapy, Combination ; Eyelashes ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid/administration &amp; dosage ; Hypotrichosis/drug therapy ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Prospective Studies ; Single-Blind Method ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The HARMONY study is the first clinical trial to assess the impact of a global approach to facial rejuvenation with several minimally invasive modalities, using patient-reported outcome measures.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: Provide details of this treatment approach and describe investigators' experiences and recommendations based on this study.<br><br>METHODS: This multicenter, 4-month study evaluated subject satisfaction with and psychological impact of combined treatment with VYC-20L (Juv&#xe9;derm Voluma XC), HYC-24L (Juv&#xe9;derm Ultra XC), HYC-24L+ (Juv&#xe9;derm Ultra Plus XC), onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox), and bimatoprost 0.3% ophthalmic solution (Latisse). Treatment-naive adults with moderate-to-severe facial lines and folds and eyelash hypotrichosis received on-label, staged treatment with fillers. Bimatoprost was self-administered once daily for 17 weeks from day 1. OnabotulinumtoxinA was administered for glabellar lines, crow's feet lines, or both at month 3.<br><br>RESULTS: Overall, 100 subjects received bimatoprost for eyelash hypotrichosis, 96 received onabotulinumtoxinA for glabellar lines and/or crow's feet lines, and 96 received VYC-20L for midface volume deficit. From 17 to 96 subjects received HYC-24L and/or HYC-24L+ for nasolabial folds, oral commissures, marionette lines, perioral lines, or radial cheek lines. Injections of filler generally progressed from cranial to caudal, with midface injected first. Investigator-reported factors that may have contributed to the potential benefits of this approach include the critical role of the midface in facial aesthetics, use of lower volumes of filler in individual facial areas, and anesthetic effects.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The investigators' perspectives and experience with the injection pattern, sequencing, volumes, and techniques may provide valuable guidance for a multimodal approach to facial aesthetic treatment.}, }
@article {pmid27113211, year = {2016}, author = {Pozio, E}, title = {Trichinella pseudospiralis an elusive nematode.}, journal = {Veterinary parasitology}, volume = {231}, number = {}, pages = {97-101}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.03.021}, pmid = {27113211}, issn = {1873-2550}, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; Species Specificity ; Time Factors ; Trichinella/*isolation &amp; purification ; Trichinellosis/epidemiology/parasitology/*veterinary ; Zoonoses ; }, abstract = {Trichinella pseudospiralis is one of the three species whose larvae do not encapsulate after muscle cell differentiation, and the only one infecting both mammals and birds. More than 40 years after its discovery, the epidemiology remains, at least in part, still enigmatic. The aim of this work was to reconsider the current knowledge on the T. pseudospiralis epidemiology by collecting the information available in the literature and in the website of the International Trichinella Reference Center. Over the last decade, there was an increasing number of reports of T. pseudospiralis due to the increased use of the digestion tests. T. pseudospiralis was detected in 18 mammalian species (3 species of Dasyuridae; 2 species of Muridae; 4 species of Canidae; 3 species of Felidae; 2 species of Mustelidae; 1 species of Procyonidae; 1 species of Ursidae; and swine) including humans, and 8 avian species (3 species of Accipitridae; 1 species of Cathartidae; 1 species of Corvidae; 1 species of Tytonidae; 2 species of Strigidae) for a total of 249 isolates from Asia, America, Australia, and Europe. In the European Union, T. pseudospiralis has been documented in 19 out of 28 countries. The zoonotic role of this parasite was documented in 128 persons with trichinellosis. The number of mammals tested for Trichinella spp. by digestion has been much higher than that of birds, thus the role played by birds in the epidemiology of T. pseudospiralis still needs to be elaborated in more detail. The results may suggest that T. pseudospiralis, allowing to make up for the lower prevalence than that of the encapsulated species in the host populations, uses a wider host range.}, }
@article {pmid27110893, year = {2016}, author = {Baumann, L and Dayan, S and Connolly, S and Silverberg, N and Lei, X and Drinkwater, A and Gallagher, CJ}, title = {Duration of Clinical Efficacy of OnabotulinumtoxinA in Crow's Feet Lines: Results from Two Multicenter, Randomized, Controlled Trials.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {42}, number = {5}, pages = {598-607}, pmid = {27110893}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Double-Blind Method ; Esthetics ; *Eye ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*therapeutic use ; Patient Satisfaction ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Duration of esthetic treatments may contribute to subject satisfaction.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: Describe response duration with onabotulinumtoxinA in crow's feet lines (CFL) and the association of duration with perception of improvement.<br><br>METHODS: Subjects from 2 double-blind, placebo-controlled trials received onabotulinumtoxinA 24 U in CFL; Study 2 subjects could also receive 20 U in glabella. At Day 30, responders achieved &#x2265;1-grade improvement in Facial Wrinkle Scale (FWS) scores. Median duration of effect for responders and for responders stratified by Subject's Global Assessment of Change in CFL (SGA-CFL) was determined.<br><br>RESULTS: Of 1,362 subjects, 833 received onabotulinumtoxinA. In Study 2, 305 subjects also received 20 U in glabella. In Study 1 (150-day follow-up), per investigator and subject assessments, respectively, median response duration was 125 and 144 days for dynamic lines and 137 and 148 days for static lines. Median response duration for dynamic and static lines in Study 2 (120-day follow-up) was 119 to 121 days per investigator and subject assessments. Subjects reporting greater improvement on the SGA-CFL tended to have a longer duration of response on investigator FWS scores at maximum smile.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Response duration with onabotulinumtoxinA in CFL was &#x2265;4 months. Subject perception of CFL improvement may be associated with response duration.}, }
@article {pmid27108470, year = {2016}, author = {Graff, G}, title = {Post Civil War African American History: Brief Periods of Triumph, and Then Despair.}, journal = {The Journal of psychohistory}, volume = {43}, number = {4}, pages = {247-261}, pmid = {27108470}, issn = {0145-3378}, mesh = {Black or African American/*history/psychology ; *American Civil War ; Civil Rights/*history/psychology ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Prisons/history ; Racism/*history/psychology ; United States ; }, abstract = {During Reconstruction, which is often called the most progressive period in American history, African Americans made great strides. By 1868 African American men constituted a majority of registered voters in South Carolina and Mississippi, and by 1870 eighty-five percent of Mississippi's black jurors could read and write. However, Reconstruction was followed by approximately one hundred years of Jim Crow laws, lynching, disenfranchisement, sharecropping, unequal educational resources, terrorism, racial caricatures, and convict leasing. The Civil Rights Revolution finally ended that period of despair, but the era of mass incarceration can be understood as a reaction to the Civil Rights Movement. This article attempts to understand the persistence of racism in the United States from slavery's end until the present.}, }
@article {pmid27106293, year = {2016}, author = {Platonov, FA and Tyryshkin, K and Tikhonov, DG and Neustroyeva, TS and Sivtseva, TM and Yakovleva, NV and Nikolaev, VP and Sidorova, OG and Kononova, SK and Goldfarb, LG and Renwick, NM}, title = {Genetic fitness and selection intensity in a population affected with high-incidence spinocerebellar ataxia type 1.}, journal = {Neurogenetics}, volume = {17}, number = {3}, pages = {179-185}, pmid = {27106293}, issn = {1364-6753}, support = {Z01 NS002973-10//Intramural NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Ataxin-1/*genetics ; Birth Rate ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; *Genetic Fitness ; Heterozygote ; Humans ; Incidence ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Mutation ; *Selection, Genetic ; Siberia/epidemiology ; Spinocerebellar Ataxias/*epidemiology/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1) is the major and likely the only type of autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxia in the Sakha (Yakut) people of Eastern Siberia. The prevalence rate of SCA1 has doubled over the past 21 years peaking at 46 cases per 100,000 rural population. The age at death correlates closely with the number of CAG triplet repeats in the mutant ATXN1 gene (r = -0.81); most patients with low-medium (39-55) repeat numbers survived until the end of reproductive age. The number of CAG repeats expands in meiosis, particularly in paternal transmissions; the average total increase in intergenerational transmissions in our cohort was estimated at 1.6 CAG repeats. The fertility rates of heterozygous carriers of 39-55 CAG repeats in women were no different from those of the general Sakha population. Overall, the survival of mutation carriers through reproductive age, unaltered fertility rates, low childhood mortality in SCA1-affected families, and intergenerational transmission of increasing numbers of CAG repeats in the ATXN1 gene indicate that SCA1 in the Sakha population will be maintained at high prevalence levels. The low (0.19) Crow's index of total selection intensity in our SCA1 cohort implies that this mutation is unlikely to be eliminated through natural selection alone.}, }
@article {pmid27105987, year = {2016}, author = {Bergsman, LD and Hyman, JM and Manore, CA}, title = {A mathematical model for the spread of west nile virus in migratory and resident birds.}, journal = {Mathematical biosciences and engineering : MBE}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {401-424}, doi = {10.3934/mbe.2015009}, pmid = {27105987}, issn = {1551-0018}, support = {U01 GM097661/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; U01 GM097658/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animal Migration ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/*transmission ; Crows/virology ; Culicidae/virology ; Forecasting ; *Models, Biological ; Seasons ; Songbirds/virology ; United States/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/*transmission ; West Nile virus/physiology ; }, abstract = {We develop a mathematical model for transmission of West Nile virus (WNV) that incorporates resident and migratory host avian populations and a mosquito vector population. We provide a detailed analysis of the model's basic reproductive number and demonstrate how the exposed infected, but not infectious, state for the bird population can be approximated by a reduced model. We use the model to investigate the interplay of WNV in both resident and migratory bird hosts. The resident host parameters correspond to the American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), a competent host with a high death rate due to disease, and migratory host parameters to the American Robin (Turdus migratorius), a competent host with low WNV death rates. We find that yearly seasonal outbreaks depend primarily on the number of susceptible migrant birds entering the local population each season. We observe that the early growth rates of seasonal outbreaks is more influenced by the the migratory population than the resident bird population. This implies that although the death of highly competent resident birds, such as American Crows, are good indicators for the presence of the virus, these species have less impact on the basic reproductive number than the competent migratory birds with low death rates, such as the American Robins. The disease forecasts are most sensitive to the assumptions about the feeding preferences of North American mosquito vectors and the effect of the virus on the hosts. Increased research on the these factors would allow for better estimates of these important model parameters, which would improve the quality of future WNV forecasts.}, }
@article {pmid27094214, year = {2017}, author = {Yoshida, T and Mori, T and Shimizu, H and Yoshino, Y and Sonobe, N and Matsumoto, T and Kikuchi, K and Miyagawa, M and Iga, J and Mochizuki, T and Ueno, SI}, title = {Neural basis of visual perception and reasoning ability in Alzheimer's disease: correlation between Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices test and [123] I-IMP SPECT imaging results.}, journal = {International journal of geriatric psychiatry}, volume = {32}, number = {4}, pages = {407-413}, doi = {10.1002/gps.4481}, pmid = {27094214}, issn = {1099-1166}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Alzheimer Disease/*physiopathology ; Animals ; Brain/*physiopathology ; Cerebrovascular Circulation/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Regression Analysis ; Severity of Illness Index ; Tomography, Emission-Computed, Single-Photon ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Impairment of visual perception frequently occurs in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and can cause severe constraints in daily activities. The nonverbal Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test consists of sets A, AB, and B and is easily performed in a short time to evaluate both visual perception and reasoning ability. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the neural basis of visual perception and reasoning ability in patients with AD using RCPM and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT).<br><br>METHODS: Fifty patients who fulfilled the National Institute on Aging/Alzheimer's Association criteria for probable AD dementia were examined with RCPM and SPECT. All SPECTs were performed using N-isopropyl-p-[[123] I]-iodoamphetamine. A multiple regression model was used to perform multivariate analyses of the relationships between regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) and RCPM scores.<br><br>RESULTS: There was a significant positive correlation between RCPM total score and rCBF in the inferior parietal lobes bilaterally, the right inferior temporal gyrus, and the right middle frontal gyrus. Set A was positively correlated with rCBF in the right temporal and right parietal lobes. Set AB was positively correlated with rCBF in the right temporal, right parietal, and right frontal lobes. Set B was positively correlated with rCBF in the right parietal and right frontal lobes.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that deteriorations of specific brain regions are associated with dysfunction of visual perception and reasoning ability in AD. RCPM is another informative assessment scale of cognition for use in patients with AD. Copyright &#xa9; 2016 John Wiley &amp; Sons, Ltd.}, }
@article {pmid27092558, year = {2016}, author = {Weisberg, M and Paul, DB}, title = {Morton, Gould, and Bias: A Comment on "The Mismeasure of Science".}, journal = {PLoS biology}, volume = {14}, number = {4}, pages = {e1002444}, pmid = {27092558}, issn = {1545-7885}, mesh = {*Bias ; Humans ; *Science ; Skull/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {A closer look at Stephen Jay Gould’s criticisms of Samuel Morton vindicates Gould’s accusations of racial bias in Morton’s cranial measurements.}, }
@article {pmid27092388, year = {2016}, author = {Smångs, M}, title = {Doing Violence, Making Race: Southern Lynching and White Racial Group Formation.}, journal = {AJS; American journal of sociology}, volume = {121}, number = {5}, pages = {1329-1374}, doi = {10.1086/684438}, pmid = {27092388}, issn = {0002-9602}, mesh = {History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Race Relations/*history/psychology ; Racism/*history ; Socioeconomic Factors/history ; Southeastern United States ; Violence/*history ; }, abstract = {This article presents a theoretical framework of how intergroup violence may figure into the activation and maintenance of group categories, boundaries, and identities, as well as the mediating role played by organizations in such processes. The framework's analytical advantages are demonstrated in an application to southern lynchings. Findings from event- and community-level analyses suggest that "public" lynchings, carried out by larger mobs with ceremonial violence, but not "private" ones, perpetrated by smaller bands without public or ceremonial violence, fed off and into the racial group boundaries, categories, and identities promoted by the southern Democratic Party at the turn of the 20th century and on which the emerging Jim Crow system rested. Highlighting that racialized inequalities cannot be properly understood apart from collective processes of racial group boundary and identity making, the article offers clues to the mechanisms by which past racial domination influences contemporary race relations.}, }
@article {pmid27070019, year = {2015}, author = {Derbyshire, R and Strickland, D and Norris, DR}, title = {Experimental evidence and 43 years of monitoring data show that food limits reproduction in a food-caching passerine.}, journal = {Ecology}, volume = {96}, number = {11}, pages = {3005-3015}, doi = {10.1890/15-0191.1}, pmid = {27070019}, issn = {0012-9658}, mesh = {Animals ; Ecosystem ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Genetic Fitness ; Male ; Models, Biological ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Population Dynamics ; Reproduction/*physiology ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {Several species of birds and mammals overcome periods of scarcity by caching food, but for the vast majority of species, it is virtually unknown whether they are food limited during these periods. The Gray Jay (Perisoreus canadensis) is a boreal-resident, food-caching passerine that breeds in late winter when fresh food is scarce. Using a two-year experiment and 43 years of monitoring data, we examined the food limitation hypothesis in a population of Gray Jays in Algonquin Park, Ontario, Canada, that has declined by over 50% in the last three decades. Breeding pairs that were experimentally food supplemented during the pre-breeding period laid eggs earlier in the season and had larger brood sizes than non-supplemented controls. From the long-term data, we found strong evidence that pairs that were regularly supplemented by the public (park visitors) tended to lay eggs earlier and have larger clutches and brood sizes compared to pairs that were not supplemented. Nestling body condition (mass controlled for body size) was not influenced by either experimental or public food supplementation. Our results support the hypothesis that Gray Jays are food limited during their late-winter breeding period and suggest that warmer fall temperatures, which have been hypothesized to lead to cache spoilage, may have a significant impact on reproductive success in this declining population. Moreover, our results contribute to understanding how public feeding can influence the fitness of wild animals.}, }
@article {pmid27069679, year = {2016}, author = {Zahrou, FE and Azlaf, M and El Menchawy, I and El Mzibri, M and El Kari, K and El Hamdouchi, A and Mouzouni, FZ and Barkat, A and Aguenaou, H}, title = {Fortified Iodine Milk Improves Iodine Status and Cognitive Abilities in Schoolchildren Aged 7-9 Years Living in a Rural Mountainous Area of Morocco.}, journal = {Journal of nutrition and metabolism}, volume = {2016}, number = {}, pages = {8468594}, pmid = {27069679}, issn = {2090-0724}, abstract = {Iodine is required for the production of the thyroid hormones essential for the growth and development of the brain. All forms of iodine deficiency (ID) affect the mental development of the child. Our study aims to assess the impact of ID on the intellectual development of Moroccan schoolchildren and to evaluate the effect of consumption of fortified milk on reducing ID. In a double-blind controlled trial conducted on schoolchildren, children were divided into two groups to receive fortified milk (30% of cover of RDI iodine) or nonfortified milk for 9 months. Urinary iodine was analyzed using the Sandell-Kolthoff reaction, a dynamic cognitive test using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices to assess learning potential was performed at baseline and end line, and anthropometric assessment was done only at baseline. The study included schoolchildren who were severely iodine deficient. The prevalence of malnutrition was high in both groups; in this study, we found improvements in iodine status and in cognitive abilities among Moroccan schoolchildren. Our study showed that the consumption of fortified milk led to a clear improvement in iodine status and also appeared to have a favorable effect on the cognitive ability of Moroccan schoolchildren in a rural mountainous region.}, }
@article {pmid27067837, year = {2016}, author = {Freeto, T and Cypress, A and Amalraj, S and Yusufishaq, MS and Bogie, KM}, title = {Development of a Sitting MicroEnvironment Simulator for wheelchair cushion assessment.}, journal = {Journal of tissue viability}, volume = {25}, number = {3}, pages = {175-179}, doi = {10.1016/j.jtv.2016.03.007}, pmid = {27067837}, issn = {0965-206X}, mesh = {Humans ; Pressure Ulcer/*prevention &amp; control ; *Wheelchairs ; }, abstract = {STUDY AIM: Pressure ulcers (PU) are a common comorbidity among wheelchair users. An appropriate wheelchair cushion is essential to relieve pressure and reduce PU development during sitting. The microenvironment, specifically excessive heat and moisture, impacts risk for PU development. An effective wheelchair cushion should maintain a healthy microenvironment at the seating interface. Measurement of heat and moisture can characterize microenvironmental conditions at the wheelchair cushion interface under load. We describe the development of a Sitting MicroEnvironment Simulator (SMES) for the reliable assessment of wheelchair cushion microenvironments.<br><br>MATERIALS: The prototype SMES was developed for use mounted on a Materials Testing Systems (MTS) 810(&#xae;) uniaxial servo-hydraulic loading rig and used to assess microenvironmental conditions for Jay Medical Jay 2(&#xae;), Roho High Profile Dry Floatation(&#xae;) and Low Profile Dry Floatation(&#xae;) cushions and a novel modular gel cushion.<br><br>METHODS: Each cushion was assessed for two hours in triplicate. The SMES was used to load the cushions to 300N&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;10N, with an interface surface temperature of 37&#xa0;&#xb0;C&#xb1;1&#xa0;&#xb0;C and fluid delivery of 13&#xa0;mL/h&#xb1;1&#xa0;mL/h of water. Interface temperature and humidity were measured at the left ischial tuberosity (IT) region every five minutes.<br><br>RESULTS: Heat and moisture responses were similar for the three commercial cushions. The modular gel cushion stayed cooler for at least 15&#xa0;min longer than any commercial cushion.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The SMES maintained performance to technical specifications for over one hundred hours of total testing and is a reliable tool for characterizing the microenvironmental conditions of wheelchair cushions.}, }
@article {pmid27064823, year = {2016}, author = {Byun, SY and Chae, JB and Na, JI and Park, KC}, title = {Significant improvement in crow's feet after treatment with Jet-M and a mixed solution of copper-GHK, oligo-hyaluronic acid, rhodiolar extract, tranexamic acid, and β-glucan (GHR formulation).}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology}, volume = {18}, number = {5}, pages = {293-295}, doi = {10.3109/14764172.2016.1157367}, pmid = {27064823}, issn = {1476-4180}, mesh = {Collagen/metabolism ; Cosmetics/*therapeutic use ; *Face ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid ; Lysine ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Oligopeptides ; Organometallic Compounds ; Rhodiola ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Tranexamic Acid ; beta-Glucans ; }, abstract = {Jet-M (Tav-Tech Ltd., Israel) is an instrument for skin resurfacing. When it sprays microdroplets of solution or shoots air on the skin, exfoliation and stretching of superficial layers can occur. Thus, it will increase percutaneous absorption of vitamins and other cosmetic agents. A cosmetic preparation containing copper-glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, oligo-hyaluronic acid, rhodiolar extract, tranexamic acid, and β-glucan was used with Jet-M in one patient. Anesthesia was not administered and there was no pain during the treatment. A male aged 59 years was treated once a week for 12 weeks. In the clinical photographs, wrinkles around the treated eye were greatly decreased. Skin biopsies were taken from treated and untreated areas. Hematoxylin and eosin and Masson's trichrome staining showed increased collagen production in the upper dermis. On the other hand, collagen IV production was slightly increased. Fibrillin-1 and procollagen type 1 were greatly increased and tropoelastin was also increased. There was no adverse effect during and after treatment.}, }
@article {pmid27061384, year = {2016}, author = {Guarini, A and Marini, A and Savini, S and Alessandroni, R and Faldella, G and Sansavini, A}, title = {Linguistic features in children born very preterm at preschool age.}, journal = {Developmental medicine and child neurology}, volume = {58}, number = {9}, pages = {949-956}, doi = {10.1111/dmcn.13118}, pmid = {27061384}, issn = {1469-8749}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Gestational Age ; Humans ; Infant, Extremely Premature/*physiology ; *Language Development ; *Linguistics ; Male ; Memory/physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Retrospective Studies ; }, abstract = {AIM: This cross-sectional study focused on the effect of very preterm (VPT) birth on language development by analysing phonological, lexical, grammatical, and pragmatic skills and assessing the role of cognitive and memory skills.<br><br>METHOD: Sixty children (29 males, 31 females) born VPT (<32wks) aged 5 years were compared with 60 children with typical development. The linguistic assessment was performed by administering a battery of Italian tests for the evaluation of language; cognitive and memory skills were assessed by Raven's coloured progressive matrices and digit span subtest (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children [WISC-III]).<br><br>RESULTS: Children born VPT showed delays in lexical (comprehension: z-score difference -1.18; 95% confidence interval [CI] -1.60 to -0.77; naming: -0.88; 95% CI -1.19 to -0.58) and pragmatic skills (comprehension: -0.76; 95% CI -1.02 to -0.49; narrative production: -0.47; 95% CI -0.72 to -0.23). Delays in phonology and grammar were less diffuse, involving productive skills (-1.09; 95% CI -1.64 to -0.54; -0.48; 95% CI -0.85 to -0.12, respectively), and were dependent by cognitive and memory skills. Lexical delays were more specific.<br><br>INTERPRETATION: The linguistic profile of children born preterm is characterized by some abilities more impaired than others. This highlights the need of a linguistic assessment at the end of preschool age in order to plan a focused intervention aimed at improving lexical and pragmatic skills.}, }
@article {pmid27061033, year = {2016}, author = {Smith, RJ}, title = {Freud and evolutionary anthropology's first just-so story.}, journal = {Evolutionary anthropology}, volume = {25}, number = {2}, pages = {50-53}, doi = {10.1002/evan.21476}, pmid = {27061033}, issn = {1520-6505}, mesh = {Anthropology, Physical/*history ; *Biological Evolution ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Psychology/*history ; }, }
@article {pmid27060260, year = {2016}, author = {Kim, IS and Hwang, JH and Hirano, M and Iwata, H and Kim, EY}, title = {In vitro and in silico evaluation of transactivation potencies of avian AHR1 and AHR2 by endogenous ligands: Implications for the physiological role of avian AHR2.}, journal = {Comparative biochemistry and physiology. Toxicology &amp; pharmacology : CBP}, volume = {187}, number = {}, pages = {1-9}, doi = {10.1016/j.cbpc.2016.03.011}, pmid = {27060260}, issn = {1532-0456}, mesh = {Animals ; Avian Proteins/*agonists/genetics/metabolism ; COS Cells ; Carbazoles/metabolism/pharmacology ; Chlorocebus aethiops ; Crows/genetics/*metabolism ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Gene Expression Regulation/drug effects ; Genes, Reporter ; Indican/metabolism/pharmacology ; Kynurenic Acid/metabolism/pharmacology ; Kynurenine/metabolism/pharmacology ; Ligands ; *Molecular Docking Simulation ; Protein Binding ; Receptors, Aryl Hydrocarbon/*agonists/genetics/metabolism ; Species Specificity ; Transcription, Genetic/*drug effects ; Transcriptional Activation/*drug effects ; Transfection ; }, abstract = {Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is well conserved from invertebrates to vertebrates, and it mediates the toxic effects of exogenous ligands, including dioxins. Recent studies reported that AHRs activated by endogenous ligands play critical roles in mammalian physiological homeostasis. Avian species possess at least two AHR isoforms (AHR1 and AHR2), which exhibit species- and isoform-specific transactivation potencies to exogenous ligands, whereas mammals possess a single AHR. To delineate the profiles and roles of endogenous ligands for avian AHR isoforms, we investigated in vitro transactivation potencies of avian AHRs (AHR1 and AHR2 from the jungle crow, Corvus macrorhynchos; common cormorant, Phalacrocorax carbo; and black-footed albatross, Phoebastria nigripes) treated with the endogenous tryptophan metabolites 6-formylindolo [3,2-b] carbazole (FICZ), l-kynurenine (l-Kyn), kynurenic acid (KYNA), and indoxyl sulfate (IS). Furthermore, we analyzed the binding mode of these ligands to each avian AHR isoform by in silico docking simulations. The EC50 of FICZ (0.009-0.032nM) was similar regardless of the species or isoform of AHR. The estimated in silico binding mode of FICZ to AHRs was well conserved in both isoforms. The transactivation potencies of avian AHRs to other tryptophan metabolites were 10(5)-10(7) fold lower than those for FICZ, and EC50 values varied in a species- and isoform-specific manner. This was consistent with poor conservation of the binding mode of l-Kyn, KYNA, and IS predicted in in silico docking simulations. Our results suggest that in avian species, FICZ is the most potent endogenous AHR ligand, and that AHR1 and AHR2 are physiologically functional.}, }
@article {pmid27053120, year = {2016}, author = {Ewens, WJ}, title = {Motoo Kimura and James Crow on the Infinitely Many Alleles Model.}, journal = {Genetics}, volume = {202}, number = {4}, pages = {1243-1245}, pmid = {27053120}, issn = {1943-2631}, mesh = {*Alleles ; Genetic Variation ; Genetics, Population ; History, 20th Century ; *Models, Genetic ; *Molecular Biology/history ; }, }
@article {pmid27043361, year = {2016}, author = {Oh, SS and Chae, JB and Kang, JG and Kim, HC and Chong, ST and Shin, JH and Hur, MS and Suh, JH and Oh, MD and Jeong, SM and Shin, NS and Choi, KS and Chae, JS}, title = {Detection of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Virus from Wild Animals and Ixodidae Ticks in the Republic of Korea.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {16}, number = {6}, pages = {408-414}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2015.1848}, pmid = {27043361}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; Bunyaviridae Infections/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; *Crows ; Ixodidae/*virology ; *Mammals ; Phlebovirus/*isolation &amp; purification ; Phylogeny ; Republic of Korea/epidemiology ; Tick-Borne Diseases/epidemiology/veterinary/virology ; }, abstract = {Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is caused by SFTS virus (SFTSV), a novel bunyavirus reported to be endemic to central-northeastern China, southern Japan, and the Republic of Korea (ROK). To investigate SFTSV infections, we collected serum samples and ticks from wild animals. Using serum samples and ticks, SFTSV-specific genes were amplified by one-step RT-PCR and nested PCR and sequenced. Indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) was performed to analyze virus-specific antibody levels in wild animals. Serum samples were collected from a total of 91 animals: 21 Korean water deer (KWD), 3 Siberian roe deer, 5 gorals, 7 raccoon dogs, 54 wild boars (WBs), and 1 carrion crow. The SFTSV infection rate in wild animals was 3.30% (3 of 91 animals: 1 KWD and 2 WBs). The seropositive rate was 6.59% (6 of 91 animals: 5 KWD and 1 WB). A total of 891 ticks (3 species) were collected from 65 wild animals (9 species). Of the attached tick species, Haemaphysalis longicornis (74.86%) was the most abundant, followed by Haemaphysalis flava (20.20%) and Ixodes nipponensis (4.94%). The average minimum infection rate (MIR) of SFTSV in ticks was 4.98%. The MIRs of H. longicornis, H. flava, and I. nipponensis were 4.51%, 2.22%, and 22.73%, respectively. The MIRs of larvae, nymphs, and adult ticks were 0.68%, 6.88%, and 5.53%, respectively. In addition, the MIRs of fed and unfed ticks were 4.67% and 4.96%, respectively. We detected a low SFTSV infection rate in wild animals, no differences in SFTSV infection rate with respect to bloodsucking in ticks, and SFTSV infection for all developmental stages of ticks. This is the first report describing the detection of SFTSV in wild animals in the ROK.}, }
@article {pmid27036232, year = {2016}, author = {Kelly, EM}, title = {Counting on your friends: The role of social environment on quantity discrimination.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {128}, number = {}, pages = {9-16}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2016.03.019}, pmid = {27036232}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; *Choice Behavior ; *Discrimination, Psychological ; Female ; Male ; *Passeriformes ; Social Behavior ; *Social Environment ; }, abstract = {Quantity discrimination has been established in a range of species. However, most demonstrations of quantity discrimination control for social factors by testing animals individually. I tested whether sociality affects quantity discrimination in the wild by comparing the performances of the highly social Mexican jay (MJ; Aphelocoma wollweberi) and the territorial Western scrub jay (WJ; Aphelocoma californica). The birds were given a choice between two lines of peanuts that differed in initial quantity ranging from 2 vs 8 to 14 vs 16. Their choices were recorded until all peanuts were eaten or cached. Whereas non-social WJ selected the larger quantity across all the trials significantly more than chance, social MJ selected the larger line only when the difference in the number of peanuts between lines was small. In MJ, individual choice when selecting the large or small quantity was influenced by what line the previous bird had chosen when the difference in lines was large, with followers significantly more likely to select the smaller quantity. WJ were not significantly affected by the choices of other individuals. The only factors that influenced WJ choice were ratio and total differences between the two quantities. These results suggests that in certain scenarios, both species can discriminate between different quantities. However, MJ were greatly influenced by social factors, a previously untested factor, while WJ were only influenced by ratio and total difference between the quantities, consistent with findings in other species. Overall, this study demonstrates the important role of sociality in numerical cognitive performance, a previously overlooked factor.}, }
@article {pmid27033033, year = {2016}, author = {Björn, LO and Bengtson, SA and Li, S and Hecker, C and Ullah, S and Roos, A and Nilsson, AM}, title = {Thermal emissivity of avian eggshells.}, journal = {Journal of thermal biology}, volume = {57}, number = {}, pages = {1-5}, doi = {10.1016/j.jtherbio.2015.11.008}, pmid = {27033033}, issn = {0306-4565}, mesh = {Acclimatization ; Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Body Temperature Regulation ; Charadriiformes/*genetics/physiology ; Egg Shell/*physiology ; *Infrared Rays ; Temperature ; }, abstract = {The hypothesis has been tested that evolution has resulted in lower thermal emissivity of eggs of birds breeding openly in cold climates than of eggs of birds that nest under protective covering or in warmer climates. Directional thermal emissivity has been estimated from directional-hemispherical reflectance spectra. Due to several methodological difficulties the absolute emissivity is not accurately determined, but differences between species are obvious. Most notably, small waders of the genus Calidris, breeding in cold climates on the tundra, and in most cases with uniparental nest attendance, have low directional emissivity of their eggshells, about 0.92 when integration is carried out for wavelengths up to 16μm. Species belonging to Galloanserinae have the highest directional emissivity, about 0.96, of their eggs. No differences due to climate or breeding conditions were found within this group. Eggs of most other birds tested possess intermediate emissivity, but the values for Pica pica and Corvus corone cornix are as low as for Calidris. Large species-dependent differences in spectral reflectance were found at specific wavelengths. For instance, at 4.259μm the directional-hemispherical reflectance for galliforms range from 0.05 to 0.09, while for Fratercula arctica and Fulmarus glacialis it is about 0.3. The reflection peaks at 6.5 and 11.3μm due to calcite are differentially attenuated in different species. In conclusion, the hypothesis that evolution has resulted in lower thermal emissivity of bird eggs being exposed in cold climates is not supported by our results. The emissivity is not clearly related to nesting habits or climate, and it is unlikely that the small differences observed are ecologically important. The spectral differences between eggs that nevertheless exist should be taken into account when using infrared thermometers for estimating the surface temperature of avian eggs.}, }
@article {pmid27012819, year = {2016}, author = {Renaut, S and Dion-Côté, AM}, title = {History repeats itself: genomic divergence in copepods.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {25}, number = {7}, pages = {1417-1419}, doi = {10.1111/mec.13577}, pmid = {27012819}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; Copepoda/*genetics ; *Evolution, Molecular ; *Genetics, Population ; *Transcriptome ; }, abstract = {Press stop, erase everything from now till some arbitrary time in the past and start recording life as it evolves once again. Would you see the same tape of life playing itself over and over, or would a different story unfold every time? The late Steven Jay Gould called this experiment replaying the tape of life and argued that any replay of the tape would lead evolution down a pathway radically different from the road actually taken (Gould 1989). This thought experiment has puzzled evolutionary biologists for a long time: how repeatable are evolutionary events? And if history does indeed repeat itself, what are the factors that may help us predict the path taken? A powerful means to address these questions at a small evolutionary scale is to study closely related populations that have evolved independently, under similar environmental conditions. This is precisely what Pereira et al. (2016) set out to do using marine copepods Tigriopus californicus, and present their results in this issue of Molecular Ecology. They show that evolution can be repeatable and even partly predictable, at least at the molecular level. As expected from theory, patterns of divergence were shaped by natural selection. At the same time, strong genetic drift due to small population sizes also constrained evolution down a similar evolutionary road, and probably contributed to repeatable patterns of genomic divergence.}, }
@article {pmid27010021, year = {2016}, author = {Gravel, S}, title = {When Is Selection Effective?.}, journal = {Genetics}, volume = {203}, number = {1}, pages = {451-462}, pmid = {27010021}, issn = {1943-2631}, mesh = {Demography ; Genetic Drift ; Genetic Load ; *Genome, Human ; Humans ; Models, Genetic ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {Deleterious alleles can reach high frequency in small populations because of random fluctuations in allele frequency. This may lead, over time, to reduced average fitness. In this sense, selection is more "effective" in larger populations. Recent studies have considered whether the different demographic histories across human populations have resulted in differences in the number, distribution, and severity of deleterious variants, leading to an animated debate. This article first seeks to clarify some terms of the debate by identifying differences in definitions and assumptions used in recent studies. We argue that variants of Morton, Crow, and Muller's "total mutational damage" provide the soundest and most practical basis for such comparisons. Using simulations, analytical calculations, and 1000 Genomes Project data, we provide an intuitive and quantitative explanation for the observed similarity in genetic load across populations. We show that recent demography has likely modulated the effect of selection and still affects it, but the net result of the accumulated differences is small. Direct observation of differential efficacy of selection for specific allele classes is nevertheless possible with contemporary data sets. By contrast, identifying average genome-wide differences in the efficacy of selection across populations will require many modeling assumptions and is unlikely to provide much biological insight about human populations.}, }
@article {pmid27009227, year = {2016}, author = {Ditz, HM and Nieder, A}, title = {Numerosity representations in crows obey the Weber-Fechner law.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {283}, number = {1827}, pages = {20160083}, pmid = {27009227}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; Crows/*physiology ; Differential Threshold ; Female ; Male ; Psychophysics ; Telencephalon/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The ability to estimate number is widespread throughout the animal kingdom. Based on the relative close phylogenetic relationship (and thus equivalent brain structures), non-verbal numerical representations in human and non-human primates show almost identical behavioural signatures that obey the Weber-Fechner law. However, whether numerosity discriminations of vertebrates with a very different endbrain organization show the same behavioural signatures remains unknown. Therefore, we tested the numerical discrimination performance of two carrion crows (Corvus corone) to a broad range of numerosities from 1 to 30 in a delayed match-to-sample task similar to the one used previously with primates. The crows' discrimination was based on an analogue number system and showed the Weber-fraction signature (i.e. the 'just noticeable difference' between numerosity pairs increased in proportion to the numerical magnitudes). The detailed analysis of the performance indicates that numerosity representations in crows are scaled on a logarithmically compressed 'number line'. Because the same psychophysical characteristics are found in primates, these findings suggest fundamentally similar number representations between primates and birds. This study helps to resolve a classical debate in psychophysics: the mental number line seems to be logarithmic rather than linear, and not just in primates, but across vertebrates.}, }
@article {pmid27005900, year = {2016}, author = {Shu, M and He, L and Su, Y and Shi, J and Zhang, X and Liu, X and Yu, X}, title = {A Novel Supra-Brow Combined with Infra-Brow Lift Approach for Asian Women.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {40}, number = {3}, pages = {343-348}, pmid = {27005900}, issn = {1432-5241}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Asian People/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Blepharoplasty/adverse effects/*methods ; China ; Cicatrix/*prevention &amp; control ; Cohort Studies ; *Esthetics ; *Eyebrows ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Patient Positioning ; Postoperative Complications/epidemiology/physiopathology ; Preoperative Care/methods ; Retrospective Studies ; Rhytidoplasty/adverse effects/methods ; Suture Techniques ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Direct brow lift surgery remains popular among Asian women despite its disadvantages. The traditional direct brow lift by a supra-brow incision is not suitable for Asian women because of their unique facial features, such as higher eyebrows, wider upper eyelids, and more orbital fat. Therefore, we designed a novel brow lift technique via a supra-brow combined with an infra-brow approach for Asian women.<br><br>METHODS: An area of skin above and below the eyebrow was measured, demarcated, and surgically removed. The redundant orbicularis oculi muscle (OOM) was excised while keeping the frontalis muscle intact. The OOM in the inferior flap was elevated and sutured to the frontalis muscle. In cases of puffy eyelids, orbital fat was partially removed through an infra-brow incision. Finally, a series of modifications were performed to reduce post-operative scarring.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 496 patients underwent this surgery from July 2009 to December 2013 and 432 patients were followed up for at least 6&#xa0;months after surgery. Post-operative scars, in most patients (428/432), were inconspicuous. There were no facial nerve injuries documented and eight patients reported transient forehead numbness. The height of the palpebral fissure was increased but there was no marked increase observed of the distance between the upper eyelid edge and the eyebrow. In follow-up visits, 409 out of 432 patients (94.7&#xa0;%) were satisfied with their surgical results.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This new brow lift technique via a supra-brow combined with an infra-brow approach provided a simple and safe surgical repair of lateral brow ptosis, upper eyelids hooding, and crows' feet in Asian women. The surgical outcomes were predictable and the scars were inconspicuous.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .}, }
@article {pmid26994178, year = {2016}, author = {KleinHeerenbrink, M and Warfvinge, K and Hedenström, A}, title = {Wake analysis of aerodynamic components for the glide envelope of a jackdaw (Corvus monedula).}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {219}, number = {Pt 10}, pages = {1572-1581}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.132480}, pmid = {26994178}, issn = {1477-9145}, mesh = {Animals ; Biomechanical Phenomena/physiology ; Body Weight/physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Flight, Animal/*physiology ; Posture/physiology ; Tail ; Wings, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Gliding flight is a relatively inexpensive mode of flight used by many larger bird species, where potential energy is used to cover the cost of aerodynamic drag. Birds have great flexibility in their flight configuration, allowing them to control their flight speed and glide angle. However, relatively little is known about how this flexibility affects aerodynamic drag. We measured the wake of a jackdaw (Corvus monedula) gliding in a wind tunnel, and computed the components of aerodynamic drag from the wake. We found that induced drag was mainly affected by wingspan, but also that the use of the tail has a negative influence on span efficiency. Contrary to previous work, we found no support for the separated primaries being used in controlling the induced drag. Profile drag was of similar magnitude to that reported in other studies, and our results suggest that profile drag is affected by variation in wing shape. For a folded tail, the body drag coefficient had a value of 0.2, rising to above 0.4 with the tail fully spread, which we conclude is due to tail profile drag.}, }
@article {pmid26990256, year = {2016}, author = {Mahmoud, BH and Ozog, D and Burnett, C and Cohen, JL}, title = {Prospective Randomized Split-Face Comparative Study Between Topical Botulinum Toxin A Surface Application and Local Injection for Crow's Feet.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {42}, number = {4}, pages = {554-556}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000000646}, pmid = {26990256}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Administration, Topical ; Adult ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; *Face ; Female ; Humans ; Injections ; Middle Aged ; Prospective Studies ; *Skin Aging ; }, }
@article {pmid26988286, year = {2016}, author = {Xing, Q and Yu, Q and Dou, H and Wang, J and Li, R and Ning, X and Wang, R and Wang, S and Zhang, L and Hu, X and Bao, Z}, title = {Genome-wide identification, characterization and expression analyses of two TNFRs in Yesso scallop (Patinopecten yessoensis) provide insight into the disparity of responses to bacterial infections and heat stress in bivalves.}, journal = {Fish &amp; shellfish immunology}, volume = {52}, number = {}, pages = {44-56}, doi = {10.1016/j.fsi.2016.03.010}, pmid = {26988286}, issn = {1095-9947}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Gene Expression Profiling ; Gene Expression Regulation/*immunology ; *Heat-Shock Response ; Hemocytes/microbiology ; Micrococcus luteus/*physiology ; Organ Specificity ; Pectinidae/classification/*genetics/*immunology/microbiology ; Phylogeny ; Protein Structure, Secondary ; Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor/chemistry/*genetics/metabolism ; Sequence Alignment ; Vibrio/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Tumor necrosis factors receptors (TNFRs) comprise a superfamily of proteins characterized by a unique cysteine-rich domain (CRD) and play important roles in diverse physiological and pathological processes in the innate immune system, including inflammation, apoptosis, autoimmunity and organogenesis. Although significant effects of TNFRs on immunity have been reported in most vertebrates as well as some invertebrates, the complete TNFR superfamily has not been systematically characterized in scallops. In this study, two different types of TNFR-like genes, including PyTNFR1 and PyTNFR2 genes were identified from Yesso scallop (Patinopecten yessoensis, Jay, 1857) through whole-genome scanning. Phylogenetic and protein structural analyses were carried out to determine the identities and evolutionary relationships of the two genes. The expression profiling of PyTNFRs was performed at different development stages, in healthy adult tissues and in hemocytes after bacterial infection and heat stress. Expression analysis revealed that both PyTNFRs were significantly induced during the acute phase (3 h) after infection with Gram-positive (Micrococcus luteus) and Gram-negative (Vibrio anguillarum) bacteria, though much more dramatic chronic-phase (24 h) changes were observed after V. anguillarum challenge. For heat stress, only PyTNFR2 displayed significant elevation at 12 h and 24 h, which suggests a functional difference in the two PyTNFRs. Collectively, this study provides novel insight into the PyTNFRs and the specific role and response of TNFR-involved pathways in host immune responses against different bacterial pathogens and heat stress in bivalves.}, }
@article {pmid26984123, year = {2016}, author = {Legg, EW and Ostojić, L and Clayton, NS}, title = {Caching at a distance: a cache protection strategy in Eurasian jays.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {19}, number = {4}, pages = {753-758}, pmid = {26984123}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Feeding Behavior ; *Passeriformes ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {A fundamental question about the complexity of corvid social cognition is whether behaviours exhibited when caching in front of potential pilferers represent specific attempts to prevent cache loss (cache protection hypothesis) or whether they are by-products of other behaviours (by-product hypothesis). Here, we demonstrate that Eurasian jays preferentially cache at a distance when observed by conspecifics. This preference for a 'far' location could be either a by-product of a general preference for caching at that specific location regardless of the risk of cache loss or a by-product of a general preference to be far away from conspecifics due to low intra-species tolerance. Critically, we found that neither by-product account explains the jays' behaviour: the preference for the 'far' location was not shown when caching in private or when eating in front of a conspecific. In line with the cache protection hypothesis we found that jays preferred the distant location only when caching in front of a conspecific. Thus, it seems likely that for Eurasian jays, caching at a distance from an observer is a specific cache protection strategy.}, }
@article {pmid26982915, year = {2016}, author = {Kuczewski, M}, title = {The Really New Jim Crow: Why Bioethicists Must Ally With Undocumented Immigrants.}, journal = {The American journal of bioethics : AJOB}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {21-23}, doi = {10.1080/15265161.2016.1145294}, pmid = {26982915}, issn = {1536-0075}, mesh = {Humans ; *Ethicists ; Health Services Accessibility ; Undocumented Immigrants ; }, }
@article {pmid26979457, year = {2016}, author = {Carruthers, A and Bruce, S and Cox, SE and Kane, MA and Lee, E and Gallagher, CJ}, title = {OnabotulinumtoxinA for Treatment of Moderate to Severe Crow's Feet Lines: A Review.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {36}, number = {5}, pages = {591-597}, doi = {10.1093/asj/sjw025}, pmid = {26979457}, issn = {1527-330X}, mesh = {Acetylcholine Release Inhibitors/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Facial Muscles/*drug effects ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {Lateral canthal lines or crow's feet lines (CFL) may be treated with onabotulinumtoxinA. We identified several key concepts important to understanding the use of onabotulinumtoxinA for treatment of moderate-to-severe CFL. To contextualize and integrate data on the recommended dose and injection patterns of onabotulinumtoxinA for treatment of CFL, we summarized data from pivotal clinical studies in the development of onabotulinumtoxinA for treatment of CFL. Data from key studies of onabotulinumtoxinA for CFL are presented. The efficacy and safety of onabotulinumtoxinA treatment of moderate-to-severe CFL were evaluated in 2 randomized, controlled phase 3 studies comprising 1362 patients. The 24U total dose of onabotulinumtoxinA used in these studies was based on a phase 2 dose-ranging trial. Two injection patterns were available to investigators; each involved 3 injection sites per side in the lateral orbicularis oculi muscle. A cross-sectional analysis of photographs from the phase 3 trials provided detailed information on the frequency of 4 distinct CFL patterns. In the primary efficacy analysis for each phase 3 trial, CFL responder rates were significantly greater with onabotulinumtoxinA vs placebo at day 30 (P< .001). Eyelid edema (1%) was the only adverse event reported in ≥ 1% of patients receiving onabotulinumtoxinA, occurring more frequently with onabotulinumtoxinA than with placebo. The studies showed that onabotulinumtoxinA is effective and generally well-tolerated for CFL treatment. Additionally, 2 different injection patterns allow physicians to tailor treatment based on a patient's CFL pattern.}, }
@article {pmid26978040, year = {2016}, author = {Huang, L and Huang, T and Zhen, Z and Liu, J}, title = {A test-retest dataset for assessing long-term reliability of brain morphology and resting-state brain activity.}, journal = {Scientific data}, volume = {3}, number = {}, pages = {160016}, pmid = {26978040}, issn = {2052-4463}, mesh = {Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Female ; Humans ; *Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Nervous System Physiological Phenomena ; Reproducibility of Results ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {We present a test-retest dataset for evaluation of long-term reliability of measures from structural and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI and rfMRI) scans. The repeated scan dataset was collected from 61 healthy adults in two sessions using highly similar imaging parameters at an interval of 103-189 days. However, as the imaging parameters were not completely identical, the reliability estimated from this dataset shall reflect the lower bounds of the true reliability of sMRI/rfMRI measures. Furthermore, in conjunction with other test-retest datasets, our dataset may help explore the impact of different imaging parameters on reliability of sMRI/rfMRI measures, which is especially critical for assessing datasets collected from multiple centers. In addition, intelligence quotient (IQ) was measured for each participant using Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices. The data can thus be used for purposes other than assessing reliability of sMRI/rfMRI alone. For example, data from each single session could be used to associate structural and functional measures of the brain with the IQ metrics to explore brain-IQ association.}, }
@article {pmid26976553, year = {2016}, author = {Skupien, JA and Cenci, MS and Opdam, NJ and Kreulen, CM and Huysmans, MC and Pereira-Cenci, T}, title = {Crown vs. composite for post-retained restorations: A randomized clinical trial.}, journal = {Journal of dentistry}, volume = {48}, number = {}, pages = {34-39}, doi = {10.1016/j.jdent.2016.03.007}, pmid = {26976553}, issn = {1879-176X}, mesh = {Adult ; *Composite Resins ; *Crowns ; Dental Materials ; *Dental Restoration Failure ; Dentin-Bonding Agents ; Female ; Glass ; Humans ; Male ; Metal Ceramic Alloys ; Middle Aged ; Post and Core Technique/instrumentation ; Tooth Root/injuries ; *Tooth, Nonvital ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This randomized clinical trial compared the survival of composite resin restorations and metal-ceramic crowns on endodontically treated teeth that received a glass fiber post using 2 different cementation methods.<br><br>METHODS: Forty-seven patients (age 42.5 &#xb1; 11.5) with fifty-seven endodontically treated teeth with extensive coronal damage but always with one intact surface were randomly allocated according to the type of coronal restoration: metal-ceramic crown or composite resin. In case of crown restoration, a core buildup was performed with microhybrid composite resin. The dentin bonding agent and composite resin used were the same for both direct and indirect restorations. Descriptive analysis was performed using FDI clinical criteria and survival of restorations/teeth analyzed using Kaplan-Meier statistics and log-rank tests.<br><br>RESULTS: 57 restorations (30 composite resin and 27 crowns) were made in 47 patients. The recall rate was 100% and follow up time ranged between 1 and 5 years. One tooth was extracted 11 months post-restoration due to root fracture (composite group). Eight composite restorations and one crown had reparable failures, all due to secondary caries or restoration fracture. The overall annual failure rate (AFR) was 0.92% after 50 months for success of the restorations, with 1.83% for the composite group and 0.26% for the metal-ceramic crown group. The log-rank test showed no difference for survival according to the type of restoration (p=0.344). However, for success rates, metal-ceramic crowns demonstrated better performance (p=0.022).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Indirect restorations provided higher acceptable clinical performance and lower need for re-intervention, but both types of restorations presented good survival rates. (NCT01461239).<br><br>CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: When endodontically treated teeth with at least one intact surface must be restored, composite resin restorations and metal-ceramic crows are acceptable alternatives to achieve good survival and success rates.}, }
@article {pmid26974395, year = {2016}, author = {Reisen, WK and Wheeler, SS}, title = {Surveys for Antibodies Against Mosquitoborne Encephalitis Viruses in California Birds, 1996-2013.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {264-282}, pmid = {26974395}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/*blood ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/immunology/*virology ; Birds/*virology ; California/epidemiology ; Encephalitis Virus, St. Louis/immunology ; Encephalitis Virus, Western Equine/immunology ; Encephalitis, St. Louis/blood/immunology/veterinary ; Encephalomyelitis, Equine/blood/immunology/veterinary ; Population Surveillance ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; West Nile Fever/blood/immunology/veterinary ; West Nile virus/immunology ; }, abstract = {From 1996 through 2013, 54,546 individual birds comprising 152 species and 7 orders were banded, bled, and released at four study areas within California, from which 28,388 additional serum samples were collected at one or more recapture encounters. Of these, 142, 99, and 1929 birds from 41 species were positive for neutralizing antibodies against western equine encephalomyelitis virus (WEEV), St. Louis encephalitis virus (SLEV), or West Nile virus (WNV) at initial capture or recapture, respectively. Overall, 83% of the positive serum samples were collected from five species: House Finch, House Sparrow, Mourning Dove, California Quail, and Western Scrub-Jay. Temporal data supported concurrent arbovirus surveillance and documented the disappearance of birds positive for WEEV in 2008 and SLEV in 2003 and the appearance of birds positive for WNV after its invasion in 2003. Results of these serosurveys agreed well with the host selection patterns of the Culex vectors as described from bloodmeal sequencing data and indicated that transmission of WNV seemed most effective within urban areas where avian and mosquito host diversity was limited to relatively few competent species.}, }
@article {pmid26973808, year = {2015}, author = {Palit, P and Das, S and Mathur, J}, title = {Metallurgical investigation of wire breakage of tyre bead grade.}, journal = {Case studies in engineering failure analysis}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {83-87}, doi = {10.1016/j.csefa.2015.09.003}, pmid = {26973808}, issn = {2213-2902}, abstract = {Tyre bead grade wire is used for tyre making application. The wire is used as reinforcement inside the polymer of tyre. The wire is available in different size/section such as 1.6-0.80 mm thin Cu coated wire. During tyre making operation at tyre manufacturer company, wire failed frequently. In this present study, different broken/defective wire samples were collected from wire mill for detailed investigation of the defect. The natures of the defects were localized and similar in nature. The fracture surface was of finger nail type. Crow feet like defects including button like surface abnormalities were also observed on the broken wire samples. The defect was studied at different directions under microscope. Different advanced metallographic techniques have been used for detail investigation. The analysis revealed that, white layer of surface martensite was formed and it caused the final breakage of wire. In this present study we have also discussed about the possible reason for the formation of such kind of surface martensite (hard-phase).}, }
@article {pmid26973549, year = {2016}, author = {Nęcka, E and Żak, P and Gruszka, A}, title = {Insightful Imagery is Related to Working Memory Updating.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {137}, pmid = {26973549}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Available body of evidence concerning the relationship between insight problem solving and working memory (WM) is ambiguous. Several authors propose that restructuring of the problem representation requires controlled search processes, which needs planning and involvement of WM. Other researchers suggest that the restructuring is achieved through the automatic spread of activation in long-term memory, assigning a limited role to WM capacity. In the present study we examined the correlations between insight problem solving performance and measures of WM updating function (n-back task), including general intelligence (as measured by Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices). The results revealed that updating function shared up to 30% of variance with the insight problem task performance, even when the influence of general mental ability was controlled for. These results suggest that insight problem solving is constrained by individual ability to update the content of WM.}, }
@article {pmid26968329, year = {2017}, author = {Cantarella, A and Borella, E and Carretti, B and Kliegel, M and de Beni, R}, title = {Benefits in tasks related to everyday life competences after a working memory training in older adults.}, journal = {International journal of geriatric psychiatry}, volume = {32}, number = {1}, pages = {86-93}, doi = {10.1002/gps.4448}, pmid = {26968329}, issn = {1099-1166}, mesh = {*Activities of Daily Living ; Aged ; Aging/*psychology ; Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Independent Living ; *Learning ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Problem Solving ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Transfer, Psychology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The impact of working memory (WM) training on everyday life functioning has rarely been examined, and it is not clear whether WM training gains are transferred to reasoning abilities. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of a verbal WM training in older adults, in terms of specific gains and transfer effects to everyday life and reasoning abilities.<br><br>METHOD: Thirty-six community dwelling older adults (from 65 to 75&#x2009;years of age) were randomly assigned to a training or an active control group. The specific gains in a WM task similar to the one trained were assessed. Transfer effects to everyday life and reasoning abilities were also examined using (i) objective performance-based tasks (the Everyday Problem Test and the Timed Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale) and (ii) the Cattell test and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices, respectively.<br><br>RESULTS: Only the trained group showed specific benefits and transfer effects to one of the everyday abilities measures (the Everyday Problem Test) and in the two reasoning tasks.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These results suggest that WM training can positively impact cognitive functioning and, more importantly, older adults' abilities in everyday living. Copyright &#xa9; 2016 John Wiley &amp; Sons, Ltd.}, }
@article {pmid26967129, year = {2016}, author = {Fukui, D and Nakamura, M and Yamaguchi, T and Takenaka, M and Murakami, M and Yanai, T and Fukushi, H and Yanagida, K and Bando, G and Matsuno, K and Nagano, M and Tsubota, T}, title = {AN EPIZOOTIC OF EMERGING NOVEL AVIAN POX IN CARRION CROWS (CORVUS CORONE) AND LARGE-BILLED CROWS (CORVUS MACRORHYNCHOS) IN JAPAN.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {52}, number = {2}, pages = {230-241}, doi = {10.7589/2015-07-172}, pmid = {26967129}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; Avipoxvirus/*genetics ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*virology ; Communicable Diseases, Emerging/*veterinary ; Crows/*virology ; DNA, Viral/genetics ; Female ; Gene Expression Regulation, Viral/physiology ; Genetic Variation ; Japan/epidemiology ; Male ; Phylogeny ; Poxviridae Infections/epidemiology/mortality/*veterinary ; Species Specificity ; Viral Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; }, abstract = {In 2006-10, an epizootic of emerging avian pox occurred in Carrion Crows (Corvus corone) and Large-billed Crows (Corvus macrorhynchos), leading to mortality of juvenile crows in Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan. We diagnosed 27 crows with proliferative skin lesions (19 carcasses and eight biopsied cases [one in zoo captivity]) as avian pox clinically, histopathologically by detection of Avipoxvirus-specific 4b core protein (P4b) gene, and epidemiologically. The fatal cases demonstrated intensively severe infection and aggressive lesions with secondary bacterial infection. Since the first identification of avian pox in Sapporo, Japan, in 2006, the frequency of mortality events has increased, peaking in 2007-08. Mortalities have subsequently occurred in other areas, suggesting disease expansion. In Sapporo, prevalence of avian pox evaluated by field censuses during 2007-12 was 17.6% (6.6-27.2%), peaked during 2007-08 and 2008-09, and then decreased. All diseased crows were juveniles, except for one adult. The number of crows assembling in the winter roosts had been stable for >10 yr; however, it declined in 2007-08, decreased by about 50% in 2008-09, and recovered to the previous level in 2009-10, correlated with the avian pox outbreak. Thus, avian pox probably contributed to the unusual crow population decline. All P4b sequences detected in six specimens in Sapporo were identical and different from any previously reported sequences. The sequence detected in the zoo-kept crow was distinct from any reported clades, and interspecies transmission was suspected. This report demonstrates an emerging novel avian pox in the Japanese avifauna and in global populations of Carrion Crows and Large-billed Crows. Longitudinal monitoring is needed to evaluate its impact on the crow population.}, }
@article {pmid26956620, year = {2016}, author = {Olsen, GH and Krishna, SG and Jatana, KR and Elmaraghy, CA and Ruda, JM and Tobias, JD}, title = {Changes in intracuff pressure of cuffed endotracheal tubes while positioning for adenotonsillectomy in children.}, journal = {Paediatric anaesthesia}, volume = {26}, number = {5}, pages = {500-503}, doi = {10.1111/pan.12873}, pmid = {26956620}, issn = {1460-9592}, mesh = {Adenoidectomy/*instrumentation/methods ; Adolescent ; Anesthesia, General ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Intubation, Intratracheal/*instrumentation/methods ; Male ; Patient Positioning/*methods ; Preanesthetic Medication ; Pressure ; Prospective Studies ; Tonsillectomy/*instrumentation/methods ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: When using cuffed endotracheal tubes (cETTs), changes in head and neck position can lead to changes in intracuff pressure.<br><br>AIM: The aim of this study was to assess the combined effect of neck extension, shoulder roll placement, and Crowe-Davis retractor use during adenotonsillectomy on the intracuff pressure of cETTs in children.<br><br>METHODS: Patients <18 years of age undergoing adenotonsillectomy under general anesthesia following the placement of a cETT were included in the study. After inflation of the cuff to seal the trachea, using the leak test, baseline intracuff pressure was recorded and then continuously monitored. After neck extension, placement of a shoulder roll, insertion of the Crow-Davis retractor, suspension from a Mayo stand, and positioning for surgery, the intracuff pressure was recorded again.<br><br>RESULTS: The study cohort included 84 patients, ranging in age from 0.9 to 17 years (5.7 &#xb1; 3.9 years). In 46 patients (54.8%), the intracuff pressure increased from baseline after positioning for adenotonsillectomy. In 12 of these patients (14.3%), the intracuff pressure was >30 cm H2O. The intracuff pressure decreased in 28 patients (33.3%), while no change was noted in 10 patients (11.9%). Overall, the general trend was an increase in intracuff pressure from 15.9 &#xb1; 7.8 cm H2O to 18.9 &#xb1; 11.6 cm H2O.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Both increases and decreases in the intracuff pressure may occur following positioning of the pediatric patient for adenotonsillectomy. An increase in intracuff pressure may result in a higher risk of damage to the tracheal mucosa. A decrease in the intracuff pressure can result in an air leak resulting in inadequate ventilation, increased risk of aspiration, and even predispose to airway fire if oxygen-enriched gases are used. Continuous intracuff pressure monitoring or rechecking the intracuff pressure after positioning for adenotonsillectomy may be indicated.}, }
@article {pmid26955788, year = {2016}, author = {Matsui, H and Hunt, GR and Oberhofer, K and Ogihara, N and McGowan, KJ and Mithraratne, K and Yamasaki, T and Gray, RD and Izawa, E}, title = {Adaptive bill morphology for enhanced tool manipulation in New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {22776}, pmid = {26955788}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Beak/*anatomy &amp; histology ; *Behavior, Animal ; Biological Evolution ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Principal Component Analysis ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Early increased sophistication of human tools is thought to be underpinned by adaptive morphology for efficient tool manipulation. Such adaptive specialisation is unknown in nonhuman primates but may have evolved in the New Caledonian crow, which has sophisticated tool manufacture. The straightness of its bill, for example, may be adaptive for enhanced visually-directed use of tools. Here, we examine in detail the shape and internal structure of the New Caledonian crow's bill using Principal Components Analysis and Computed Tomography within a comparative framework. We found that the bill has a combination of interrelated shape and structural features unique within Corvus, and possibly birds generally. The upper mandible is relatively deep and short with a straight cutting edge, and the lower mandible is strengthened and upturned. These novel combined attributes would be functional for (i) counteracting the unique loading patterns acting on the bill when manipulating tools, (ii) a strong precision grip to hold tools securely, and (iii) enhanced visually-guided tool use. Our findings indicate that the New Caledonian crow's innovative bill has been adapted for tool manipulation to at least some degree. Early increased sophistication of tools may require the co-evolution of morphology that provides improved manipulatory skills.}, }
@article {pmid26944218, year = {2016}, author = {Güntürkün, O and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Cognition without Cortex.}, journal = {Trends in cognitive sciences}, volume = {20}, number = {4}, pages = {291-303}, doi = {10.1016/j.tics.2016.02.001}, pmid = {26944218}, issn = {1879-307X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Birds ; Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Cerebral Cortex/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Humans ; }, abstract = {Assumptions on the neural basis of cognition usually focus on cortical mechanisms. Birds have no cortex, but recent studies in parrots and corvids show that their cognitive skills are on par with primates. These cognitive findings are accompanied by neurobiological discoveries that reveal avian and mammalian forebrains are homologous, and show similarities in connectivity and function down to the cellular level. But because birds have a large pallium, but no cortex, a specific cortical architecture cannot be a requirement for advanced cognitive skills. During the long parallel evolution of mammals and birds, several neural mechanisms for cognition and complex behaviors may have converged despite an overall forebrain organization that is otherwise vastly different.}, }
@article {pmid26941685, year = {2016}, author = {Kenny, L and Hill, E and Hamilton, AF}, title = {The Relationship between Social and Motor Cognition in Primary School Age-Children.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {228}, pmid = {26941685}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {There is increased interest in the relationship between motor skills and social skills in child development, with evidence that the mechanisms underlying these behaviors may be linked. We took a cognitive approach to this problem, and examined the relationship between four specific cognitive domains: theory of mind, motor skill, action understanding, and imitation. Neuroimaging and adult research suggest that action understanding and imitation are closely linked, but are somewhat independent of theory of mind and low-level motor control. Here, we test if a similar pattern is shown in child development. A sample of 101 primary school aged children with a wide ability range completed tests of IQ (Raven's matrices), theory of mind, motor skill, action understanding, and imitation. Parents reported on their children's social, motor and attention performance as well as developmental concerns. The results showed that action understanding and imitation correlate, with the latter having a weak link to motor control. Theory of mind was independent of the other tasks. These results imply that independent cognitive processes for social interaction (theory of mind) and for motor control can be identified in primary school age children, and challenge approaches that link all these domains together.}, }
@article {pmid26932519, year = {2016}, author = {Gethings, OJ and Sage, RB and Leather, SR}, title = {Density-dependent regulation of fecundity in Syngamus trachea infrapopulations in semi-naturally occurring ring-necked pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) and wild Carrion Crows (Corvus corone).}, journal = {Parasitology}, volume = {143}, number = {6}, pages = {716-722}, doi = {10.1017/S0031182016000135}, pmid = {26932519}, issn = {1469-8161}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Body Size ; Crows/*parasitology ; Female ; Fertility/*physiology ; Galliformes/*parasitology ; Male ; Parasite Load ; Population Density ; Strongylida Infections/*parasitology ; Strongyloidea/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Previous work has highlighted increased opportunities for the transmission of Syngamus trachea within pheasant release pens, due in part to high levels of environmental contamination around communal areas. Despite this, the distribution of adult worms within their definitive hosts is not significantly different from predicted distributions under Taylor's power law. Therefore, density-dependent processes are probably acting to regulate S. trachea population dynamics. Patterns of nematode fecundity were investigated in a semi-naturally occurring population of ring-necked pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) and a wild population of carrion crows (Corvus carone). Worm length was a reliable indicator of nematode fecundity, and a negative association between mean worm length and mean worm burden was identified within both the species. The stunting of worms at greater parasite densities was present in both immunologically naïve and previously exposed pheasants, so is unlikely to be a function of age-dependent acquired immunity. Interestingly, the effect of parasite crowding in the crow population explained more of the variation in mean worm length, apparently driven by a greater mean worm burden when compared with pheasants. The findings of the present study suggest that fecundity is a function of parasite density, i.e. parasite-mediated competition and not host-mediated heterogeneities in immunocompetence.}, }
@article {pmid26925331, year = {2016}, author = {Logan, CJ and Harvey, BD and Schlinger, BA and Rensel, M}, title = {Western scrub-jays do not appear to attend to functionality in Aesop's Fable experiments.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {e1707}, pmid = {26925331}, issn = {2167-8359}, support = {R01 MH061994/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Western scrub-jays are known for their highly discriminatory and flexible behaviors in a caching (food storing) context. However, it is unknown whether their cognitive abilities are restricted to a caching context. To explore this question, we tested scrub-jays in a non-caching context using the Aesop's Fable paradigm, where a partially filled tube of water contains a floating food reward and objects must be inserted to displace the water and bring the food within reach. We tested four birds, but only two learned to drop stones proficiently. Of these, one bird participated in 4/5 experiments and one in 2/5 experiments. Both birds passed one experiment, but without attending to the functional differences of the objects, and failed the other experiments. Scrub-jays were not motivated to participate in these experiments, suggesting that either this paradigm was ecologically irrelevant or perhaps their flexibility is restricted to a caching context.}, }
@article {pmid26922432, year = {2017}, author = {Ma, Z and Niu, B and Shi, Z and Li, J and Wang, J and Zhang, F and Gao, X and Zhang, K}, title = {Genetic Polymorphism of GABRR2 Modulates Individuals' General Cognitive Ability in Healthy Chinese Han People.}, journal = {Cellular and molecular neurobiology}, volume = {37}, number = {1}, pages = {93-100}, doi = {10.1007/s10571-016-0347-2}, pmid = {26922432}, issn = {1573-6830}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Asian People/*genetics ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/epidemiology/*genetics ; Female ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease/epidemiology/genetics ; Genetic Variation/genetics ; Humans ; Male ; Polymorphism, Genetic/*genetics ; Receptors, GABA-A/*genetics ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Previous studies have indicated that the cognitive impairment or deficit is associated with GABAergic signaling in central nervous system. Inspired by the finding that receptor GABRR2 modulates concentration of GABA and phasic inhibitory GABAergic transmission in brain. This study investigated to what extent a genetic variant (c.1423C>T, rs282129) of GABRR2 gene modulates individuals' general cognitive ability in 987 Chinese Han people. Results showed a significant influence of GABRR2 gene polymorphism on individuals' Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) performance (F = 3.58, P = .028 by ANOVA and χ [2] = 9.35, P = .009 by K-W test, respectively), even if non-genetic factors were partialed out (gender, major, types of birthplace, and socioeconomic index) (B = -.67, SE = .26, t = 2.63, P = .009). The finding provided a strong evidence, to our knowledge, for the view that genetic variant of GABRR2 gene may contribute to the difference of individuals' general cognitive ability, independently.}, }
@article {pmid26918704, year = {2016}, author = {Curie, A and Brun, A and Cheylus, A and Reboul, A and Nazir, T and Bussy, G and Delange, K and Paulignan, Y and Mercier, S and David, A and Marignier, S and Merle, L and de Fréminville, B and Prieur, F and Till, M and Mortemousque, I and Toutain, A and Bieth, E and Touraine, R and Sanlaville, D and Chelly, J and Kong, J and Ott, D and Kassai, B and Hadjikhani, N and Gollub, RL and des Portes, V}, title = {A Novel Analog Reasoning Paradigm: New Insights in Intellectually Disabled Patients.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, pages = {e0149717}, pmid = {26918704}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {R01 AT006364/AT/NCCIH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Case-Control Studies ; Cognition ; Down Syndrome/physiopathology/psychology ; Female ; Fragile X Syndrome/physiopathology/psychology ; Homeodomain Proteins/genetics ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/genetics/physiopathology/*psychology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Mutation ; *Thinking ; Transcription Factors/genetics ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Intellectual Disability (ID) is characterized by deficits in intellectual functions such as reasoning, problem-solving, planning, abstract thinking, judgment, and learning. As new avenues are emerging for treatment of genetically determined ID (such as Down's syndrome or Fragile X syndrome), it is necessary to identify objective reliable and sensitive outcome measures for use in clinical trials.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: We developed a novel visual analogical reasoning paradigm, inspired by the Progressive Raven's Matrices, but appropriate for Intellectually Disabled patients. This new paradigm assesses reasoning and inhibition abilities in ID patients.<br><br>METHODS: We performed behavioural analyses for this task (with a reaction time and error rate analysis, Study 1) in 96 healthy controls (adults and typically developed children older than 4) and 41 genetically determined ID patients (Fragile X syndrome, Down syndrome and ARX mutated patients). In order to establish and quantify the cognitive strategies used to solve the task, we also performed an eye-tracking analysis (Study 2).<br><br>RESULTS: Down syndrome, ARX and Fragile X patients were significantly slower and made significantly more errors than chronological age-matched healthy controls. The effect of inhibition on error rate was greater than the matrix complexity effect in ID patients, opposite to findings in adult healthy controls. Interestingly, ID patients were more impaired by inhibition than mental age-matched healthy controls, but not by the matrix complexity. Eye-tracking analysis made it possible to identify the strategy used by the participants to solve the task. Adult healthy controls used a matrix-based strategy, whereas ID patients used a response-based strategy. Furthermore, etiologic-specific reasoning differences were evidenced between ID patients groups.<br><br>CONCLUSION: We suggest that this paradigm, appropriate for ID patients and developmental populations as well as adult healthy controls, provides an objective and quantitative assessment of visual analogical reasoning and cognitive inhibition, enabling testing for the effect of pharmacological or behavioural intervention in these specific populations.}, }
@article {pmid26901637, year = {2016}, author = {Oliver, J and Lukacik, G and Kramer, LD and Backenson, PB and Sherwood, JA and Howard, JJ}, title = {Geography and Timing of Cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis in New York State from 1992 to 2012.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {283-289}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2015.1864}, pmid = {26901637}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; Birds/virology ; Deer/virology ; Dog Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; Dogs/virology ; Encephalitis Virus, Eastern Equine/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Encephalomyelitis, Eastern Equine/*epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; Horse Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; Horses/virology ; Humans ; New York/epidemiology ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; Time Factors ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/veterinary ; West Nile virus/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: In New York State (NYS), Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) was first reported in a human in 1971, in horses in 1970, and in pheasants in 1952.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHOD: Following work for the interval from 1970 to 1991, we identified cases in vertebrates from 1992 to 2012, through a passive surveillance system involving veterinarians in clinical practice, county health departments, and the Departments of Agriculture and Markets, Environmental Conservation, and Health, of the State of New York.<br><br>RESULT: During an 11-year hiatus, from 1992 to 2002, no case in any vertebrate was observed. In a re-emergence, from 2003 to 2012, disease occurred in 12 counties, including 7 counties where disease had never been documented. Vertebrate cases included 4 cases in humans and 77 nonhuman occurrences; in 58 horses, Equus ferus caballus L.; 2 deer, Odocoileus virginianus Zimmermann; 6 dogs, Canis familiaris; 10 birds; and 1 flock of pheasants, Phasianus colchicus L. These were the first reported cases in NYS in white-tailed deer, the domestic dog, and in five species of birds: American crow, Corvus brachyrhynchos Brehm; American goldfinch, Carduelis tristis L.; bald eagle, Haliaeetus leucocephalus L.; blue jay, Cyanocitta cristata (L.); and red-tailed hawk, Buteo jamaicensis Gmelin. One crow was dually infected with EEE virus and West Nile virus. The northern, southern, and southeastern borders of the state were newly affected.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The geographic area, time periods, and vertebrate species with risk of EEE disease expanded from 1992 to 2012.}, }
@article {pmid26877651, year = {2016}, author = {Shindler, K}, title = {A magpie with a card-index mind - Charles Davies Sherborn 1861-1942.}, journal = {ZooKeys}, volume = {}, number = {550}, pages = {33-56}, pmid = {26877651}, issn = {1313-2989}, abstract = {Charles Davies Sherborn was geologist, indexer and bibliographer extraordinaire. He was fascinated by science from an early age and like so many Victorians, the young Sherborn was a passionate natural history collector and was obsessed with expanding his collection of land and freshwater shells. He later described himself as being a 'thorough magpie' and having 'a card-index mind', and these two traits coalesced in his monumental Index Animalium, the compilation of which occupied 43 years of his life. One of the first visitors through the doors of the Natural History Museum in South Kensington when it opened in 1881, Sherborn began work there seven years later as one of the small band of unofficial scientific workers, paid by the number of fossils he prepared. By the time of his death in 1942, Sherborn's corner in the Museum was the first port of call for generations of scientists seeking advice, information - or an invitation to one of his famous 'smoke and chat' parties. In addition to his work on the Index, Sherborn is also responsible for rescuing from damp and probable destruction the huge archive of Sir Richard Owen, the great comparative anatomist and the prime mover behind the creation of the Natural History Museum, London. Without Sherborn, this invaluable resource of correspondence, manuscripts and books may well have been irretrievably ruined.}, }
@article {pmid26876417, year = {2016}, author = {Pesendorfer, MB and Sillett, TS and Morrison, SA and Kamil, AC}, title = {Context-dependent seed dispersal by a scatter-hoarding corvid.}, journal = {The Journal of animal ecology}, volume = {85}, number = {3}, pages = {798-805}, doi = {10.1111/1365-2656.12501}, pmid = {26876417}, issn = {1365-2656}, mesh = {Animals ; Appetitive Behavior ; *Feeding Behavior ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Quercus/physiology ; *Seed Dispersal ; Seeds ; Territoriality ; }, abstract = {Corvids (crows, jays, magpies and nutcrackers) are important dispersers of large-seeded plants. Studies on captive or supplemented birds suggest that they flexibly adjust their scatter-hoarding behaviour to the context of social dynamics and relative seed availability. Because many corvid-dispersed trees show high annual variation in seed production, context-dependent foraging can have strong effects on natural corvid scatter-hoarding behaviour. We investigated how seed availability and social dynamics affected scatter-hoarding in the island scrub jays (Aphelocoma insularis). We quantified rates of scatter-hoarding behaviour and territorial defence of 26 colour-marked birds over a three-year period with variable acorn crops. We tested whether caching parameters were correlated with variation in annual seed production of oaks as predicted by the predator dispersal hypothesis, which states that caching rates and distances should vary with seed abundance in ways that benefit tree fitness. We also tested whether antagonistic interactions with conspecifics would affect scatter-hoarding adversely, as found in experimental studies. Caching behaviour varied with acorn availability. Caching distances correlated positively with annual acorn crop size, increasing by as much as 40% between years. Caching rates declined over time in years with small acorn crops, but increased when crops were large. Acorn foraging and caching rates were also negatively correlated with rates of territorial aggression. Overall foraging rates, however, were not associated with aggression, suggesting that reduced dispersal rates were not simply due to time constraints. Our field results support laboratory findings that caching rates and distances by scatter-hoarding corvids are context-dependent. Furthermore, our results are consistent with predictions of the predator dispersal hypothesis and suggest that large seed crops and social interactions among scatter-hoarders affect dispersal benefits for oaks and other masting tree species.}, }
@article {pmid26876004, year = {2016}, author = {Roberts, MC and No, DB and Marzluff, JM and Delap, JH and Turner, R}, title = {Vancomycin resistant Enterococcus spp. from crows and their environment in metropolitan Washington State, USA: Is there a correlation between VRE positive crows and the environment?.}, journal = {Veterinary microbiology}, volume = {194}, number = {}, pages = {48-54}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2016.01.022}, pmid = {26876004}, issn = {1873-2542}, mesh = {Animals ; *Animals, Wild ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; Bird Diseases/*microbiology ; Carbon-Oxygen Ligases/genetics ; Crows/*microbiology ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial ; Enterococcus faecium/*drug effects/genetics ; *Environment ; Feces/microbiology ; Gram-Positive Bacterial Infections/*microbiology ; Peptide Synthases/genetics ; Vancomycin/*pharmacology ; Vancomycin Resistance/genetics ; Washington ; }, abstract = {Vancomycin-resistant enterococci [VRE] have been isolated from municipal, hospital and agricultural wastewater, recreational beaches, wild animals, birds and food animals around the world. In this study, American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) from sewage treatment plants (WWTP), dairy farms, and a large roost in a restored wetland with corresponding environmental samples were cultured for VRE. A total of 245 samples [156 crows, 89 environmental] were collected and screened for acquired vanA, vanB and/or intrinsic vanC1 genes. Samples were enriched overnight in BHI supplemented with 20μg/mL aztreonam, 4μg/mL vancomycin and plated on m-Enterococcus agar media supplemented with 6μg/mL vancomycin. Selected colonies were grown on BHI media supplemented with 18μg/mL vancomycin. Of these, 24.5% of the crow and 55% the environmental/cow samples were VRE positive as defined by Enterococcus spp. able to grow on media supplemented with 18μg/mL vancomycin. A total of 122 VRE isolates, 43 crow and 79 environmental isolates were screened, identified to species level using 16S sequencing and further characterized. Four vanA E. faecium and multiple vanC1 E. gallinarum were identified from crows isolated from three sites. E. faecium vanA and E. gallinarum vanC1 along with other Enterococcus spp. carrying vanA, vanB, vanC1 were isolated from three environments. All enterococci were multidrug resistant. Crows were more likely to carry vanA E. faecium than either the cow feces or wetland waters/soils. Comparing E. gallinarum vanC1 from crows and their environment would be useful in determining whether crows share VRE strains with their environment.}, }
@article {pmid26874128, year = {2016}, author = {Nakayama, DK}, title = {Crawford Long, Alfred Blalock, Louis Wright, and Georgia's Surgical Heritage.}, journal = {The American surgeon}, volume = {82}, number = {2}, pages = {89-94}, pmid = {26874128}, issn = {1555-9823}, mesh = {Black or African American/*history ; Anesthesia/history ; Civil Rights/history ; General Surgery/*history ; Georgia ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Surgeons/*history ; }, abstract = {Georgia and the Atlanta area are associated with three important figures in the history of surgery. Crawford Long (1815-1878) discovered the anesthetic effects of ether while in practice in Jefferson. Born in Culloden, Alfred Blalock (1899-1964) was a pioneer researcher in shock and resuscitation, and developed the Blalock-Taussig shunt for Tetralogy of Fallot. His technician, African-American Vivien Thomas (1910-1985), was a full partner in the landmark advances. Louis T. Wright (1891-1952) was born in LaGrange and grew up in the Jim Crow South. As the country's leading black surgeon, he led the integration of major hospitals and helped lay the groundwork for the landmark civil rights legislation of the 1960s that integrated American medicine. Their stories, with roots in small towns in Georgia, reveal the deep surgical traditions of the South.}, }
@article {pmid26868053, year = {2016}, author = {Droege, G and Töpfer, T}, title = {The Corvids Literature Database--500 years of ornithological research from a crow's perspective.}, journal = {Database : the journal of biological databases and curation}, volume = {2016}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {26868053}, issn = {1758-0463}, mesh = {Animals ; Biology/*methods ; Crows/*physiology ; *Databases, Bibliographic ; Databases, Factual ; Europe ; Geography ; Language ; Phylogeny ; Publications ; Research ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Corvids (Corvidae) play a major role in ornithological research. Because of their worldwide distribution, diversity and adaptiveness, they have been studied extensively. The aim of the Corvids Literature Database (CLD, http://www.corvids.de/cld) is to record all publications (citation format) on all extant and extinct Crows, Ravens, Jays and Magpies worldwide and tag them with specific keywords making them available for researchers worldwide. The self-maintained project started in 2006 and today comprises 8000 articles, spanning almost 500 years. The CLD covers publications from 164 countries, written in 36 languages and published by 8026 authors in 1503 journals (plus books, theses and other publications). Forty-nine percent of all records are available online as full-text documents or deposited in the physical CLD archive. The CLD contains 442 original corvid descriptions. Here, we present a metadata assessment of articles recorded in the CLD including a gap analysis and prospects for future research. Database URL: http://www.corvids.de/cld.}, }
@article {pmid26866991, year = {2016}, author = {Weizmann, F}, title = {Robert W. Rieber (1932-2015).}, journal = {The American psychologist}, volume = {71}, number = {2}, pages = {149}, doi = {10.1037/a0039976}, pmid = {26866991}, issn = {1935-990X}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Psychology/*history ; }, abstract = {Presents the obituary of Robert W. Rieber (1932-2015). Robert W. Rieber, the son of immigrants from the former Austro- Hungarian Empire was born March 24, 1932. He earned a bachelor's degree at Pennsylvania State University and a master's degree in speech pathology at Temple University. He moved to New York City, New York, in 1957, working as a speech pathologist at New York University. In 1960, he accepted an academic position at Pace University, subsequently moving to the John Jay College of Criminal Justice at City University of New York. He held appointments at Columbia University and, following his retirement from John Jay, at Fordham University. Bob founded and edited several journals, including The Journal of Communication Disorders, The Journal of Social Distress and the Homeless, and The Journal of Psycholinguistics Research. While on leave from Pace, he completed his doctorate at the University of London with a dissertation on the relationship between language and psychopathology. Rieber died at his summer home in Maine on April 9, 2015. He was 83.}, }
@article {pmid26854842, year = {2016}, author = {Liu, X and Shi, Y and Niu, B and Shi, Z and Li, J and Ma, Z and Wang, J and Gong, P and Zheng, A and Zhang, F and Gao, X and Zhang, K}, title = {Polymorphic variation in CHAT gene modulates general cognitive ability: An association study with random student cohort.}, journal = {Neuroscience letters}, volume = {617}, number = {}, pages = {122-126}, doi = {10.1016/j.neulet.2016.02.002}, pmid = {26854842}, issn = {1872-7972}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Choline O-Acetyltransferase/*genetics ; *Cognition ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Genetic Association Studies ; Genotype ; Humans ; Male ; Sex Factors ; Students ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The choline O-acetyltransferase (CHAT) gene has been associated with various human disorders that involve cognitive impairment or deficiency. However, the influence of disease-associated variants of CHAT on normal individuals remains dubious. Here we demonstrated the impact of CHAT sequence variants (G-120A) on general human cognitive ability in a cohort of 750 Chinese undergraduate students. A multiple choice questionnaire was used to obtain basic demographic information, such as parents' occupations and education levels. We also administered and scored the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM). A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Kruskal-Wallis test (K-W) revealed a significant association between sequence polymorphisms of G-120A and individuals' Raven score (p=0.031 for ANOVA and p=0.026 for K-W tests). Moreover, further hierarchical analysis showed a similar trend in the association between G-120A variants and Raven scores only in the female subjects (p=0.008 for ANOVA and p=0.024 for K-W tests) but not in the male subjects. The results of a multiple linear regression confirmed that after we controlled gender, age, birthplace and other non-genetic factors, CHAT G-120A polymorphisms still significantly influenced individual Raven scores (B=-0.70, SE=0.28, t=-2.50, p=0.013). Our results demonstrated that sequence variants of CHAT were associated with human cognitive ability in not only patients with psychiatric disorders but also normal healthy individuals. However, some issues remained indeterminable, such as gender differences and the extent of the influence on individuals' general cognitive abilities; thus, the further research using an independent random sample was required.}, }
@article {pmid26851267, year = {2016}, author = {Schneider, AC and Freyman, WA and Guilliams, CM and Springer, YP and Baldwin, BG}, title = {Pleistocene radiation of the serpentine-adapted genus Hesperolinon and other divergence times in Linaceae (Malpighiales).}, journal = {American journal of botany}, volume = {103}, number = {2}, pages = {221-232}, doi = {10.3732/ajb.1500379}, pmid = {26851267}, issn = {1537-2197}, mesh = {Biological Evolution ; California ; DNA, Chloroplast/genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Linaceae/*genetics/physiology ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Oregon ; *Phylogeny ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {PREMISE OF THE STUDY: Hesperolinon (western flax; Linaceae) is endemic to the western United States, where it is notable for its high and geographically concentrated species diversity on serpentine-derived soils and for its use as a model system in disease ecology. We used a phylogenetic framework to test a long-standing hypothesis that Hesperolinon is a neoendemic radiation.<br><br>METHODS: Five plastid and two ribosomal nuclear DNA gene regions were sampled from 105 populations of Hesperolinon, including all 13 recently recognized species across their known ranges. We used these data to generate population-level phylogenies of Hesperolinon. We also generated a robustly sampled chronogram of Linaceae using an eight-gene, 100-taxon supermatrix calibrated using fossil Linum pollen and a published chronogram of Malpighiales.<br><br>KEY RESULTS: Most diversification in Hesperolinon has taken place in the past 1-2 million yr, much more recently than previous estimates. Only the earliest-diverging species, H. drymarioides, was resolved as a clade. Denser taxon and gene sampling generally support previously proposed relationships within Linaceae, but with more recent diversification of key clades.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Hesperolinon is an excellent example of edaphic neoendemism, in support of Raven and Axelrod's hypothesis for the genus. Dense population-level sampling reveals a complex of incipient species, with clades poorly aligned with traditional morphological circumscriptions, likely due in part to continued gene flow. The diversification of Linaceae is more recent than previously estimated, and other recent radiations (e.g., Hugonia) warrant further study.}, }
@article {pmid26848954, year = {2016}, author = {Miller, R and Laskowski, KL and Schiestl, M and Bugnyar, T and Schwab, C}, title = {Socially Driven Consistent Behavioural Differences during Development in Common Ravens and Carrion Crows.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, pages = {e0148822}, pmid = {26848954}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological ; Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Crows/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; *Environment ; Female ; Male ; Personality ; *Social Behavior ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Consistent individual differences in behaviour, or 'personality', are likely to be influenced by development, social context, and species ecology, though few comparative, longitudinal studies exist. Here, we investigated the role of development and social context on personality variation in two identically reared, social corvids: common ravens and carrion crows. We repeatedly presented subjects with a variety of novel food and objects, while alone and in a primarily sibling subgroup, from fledging to sub-adulthood. We predicted that consistent individual differences would emerge later in development, and that conspecific presence would facilitate behavioural similarities. In contrast to our predictions, we found that individuals of both species were highly inconsistent in their behavioural responses throughout the development period. In line with our predictions, though in the ravens only, conspecific presence promoted behavioural similarities as individuals were strongly shaped by their subgroup, and it is likely that these effects were driven by social context rather than relatedness. We discuss these findings in relation to developmental steps and the role of social relations in these species. Overall, our findings highlight that these two species are highly adaptable in their behaviour, and the ravens in particular are strongly influenced by their social environment, which may facilitate cooperation and social learning.}, }
@article {pmid26848730, year = {2016}, author = {Mankin, JL and Thompson, C and Branigan, HP and Simner, J}, title = {Processing compound words: Evidence from synaesthesia.}, journal = {Cognition}, volume = {150}, number = {}, pages = {1-9}, pmid = {26848730}, issn = {1873-7838}, support = {617678/ERC_/European Research Council/International ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Color ; Color Perception/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Language ; Male ; Perceptual Disorders/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Photic Stimulation/*methods ; *Semantics ; Synesthesia ; *Word Association Tests ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {This study used grapheme-colour synaesthesia, a neurological condition where letters evoke a strong and consistent impression of colour, as a tool to investigate normal language processing. For two sets of compound words varying by lexical frequency (e.g., football vs lifevest) or semantic transparency (e.g., flagpole vs magpie), we asked 19 grapheme-colour synaesthetes to choose their dominant synaesthetic colour using an online colour palette. Synaesthetes could then select a second synaesthetic colour for each word if they experienced one. For each word, we measured the number of elicited synaesthetic colours (zero, one, or two) and the nature of those colours (in terms of their saturation and luminance values). In the first analysis, we found that the number of colours was significantly influenced by compound frequency, such that the probability of a one-colour response increased with frequency. However, semantic transparency did not influence the number of synaesthetic colours. In the second analysis, we found that the luminance of the dominant colour was predicted by the frequency of the first constituent (e.g. rain in rainbow). We also found that the dominant colour was significantly more luminant than the secondary colour. Our results show the influence of implicit linguistic measures on synaesthetic colours, and support multiple/dual-route models of compound processing.}, }
@article {pmid26843781, year = {2016}, author = {Zduniak, P and Kosicki, JZ and Yosef, R}, title = {Sexual aggression by intruders in hooded crow Corvus cornix.}, journal = {Acta ethologica}, volume = {19}, number = {}, pages = {91-94}, pmid = {26843781}, issn = {0873-9749}, abstract = {The hooded crow Corvus cornix is a west Palaearctic, solitary nesting, monogamous corvid. In the breeding season, populations are characterized by a social organization wherein breeding pairs are territorial and non-breeding individuals, called floaters, live in flocks. During a study of the breeding ecology of the hooded crow, conducted in a protected flooded area, we monitored nests with video cameras. We recorded two separate incidents when intruders attacked a female at the nest. We believe that she remained in the nest in order to prevent the strangers cannibalizing the nestlings by mantling over the brood. The spatio-temporal occurrence of these attacks suggests that the observed behaviour is intraspecific sexual aggression wherein non-breeding males mounted an immobilized female.}, }
@article {pmid26843555, year = {2016}, author = {Jelbert, SA and Taylor, AH and Gray, RD}, title = {Does absolute brain size really predict self-control? Hand-tracking training improves performance on the A-not-B task.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {20150871}, pmid = {26843555}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Choice Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; *Exploratory Behavior ; Female ; Male ; Reward ; *Self-Control ; }, abstract = {Large-scale, comparative cognition studies are set to revolutionize the way we investigate and understand the evolution of intelligence. However, the conclusions reached by such work have a key limitation: the cognitive tests themselves. If factors other than cognition can systematically affect the performance of a subset of animals on these tests, we risk drawing the wrong conclusions about how intelligence evolves. Here, we examined whether this is the case for the A-not-B task, recently used by MacLean and co-workers to study self-control among 36 different species. Non-primates performed poorly on this task; possibly because they have difficulty tracking the movements of a human demonstrator, and not because they lack self-control. To test this, we assessed the performance of New Caledonian crows on the A-not-B task before and after two types of training. New Caledonian crows trained to track rewards moved by a human demonstrator were more likely to pass the A-not-B test than birds trained on an unrelated choice task involving inhibitory control. Our findings demonstrate that overlooked task demands can affect performance on a cognitive task, and so bring into question MacLean's conclusion that absolute brain size best predicts self-control.}, }
@article {pmid26839627, year = {2015}, author = {Baláková, V and Boschek, P and Skalíková, L}, title = {Selected Cognitive Abilities in Elite Youth Soccer Players.}, journal = {Journal of human kinetics}, volume = {49}, number = {}, pages = {267-276}, pmid = {26839627}, issn = {1640-5544}, abstract = {The identification of talent in soccer is critical to various programs. Although many research findings have been presented, there have been only a few attempts to assess their validity. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between talent and achievement variables in the Vienna Test System. The participants were 91 Czech soccer players, representing four youth soccer teams, who were born in the year 2000. These boys were divided into two groups according to their coaches' assessments using a TALENT questionnaire. A two-factor model (component 1: "kinetic finesse"; component 2: "mental strength") was designed to interpret the responses of the coaches on the questionnaire. The Vienna Test System was used to determine the level of players' cognitive abilities. In total, the subjects performed seven tests in the following order: Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM), a reaction test (RT), a determination test (DT), a visual pursuit test (LVT), a Corsi Block-Tapping Test (CORSI), a time/movement anticipation test (ZBA), and a peripheral perception test (PP). To analyze the relationship between talent and achievement variables within the Vienna Test System, correlation analyses were performed. The results revealed that the talented group attained significantly better results on only 1 of the 16 variables, which was ZBA2: movement anticipation - deviation of movement median (r = .217, p = .019). A comparison of the two talent components showed that component 1 ("kinetic finesse") was a more significant factor than component 2 ("mental strength"). Although we observed statistically significant correlations, their actual significance remains questionable; thus, further research is required.}, }
@article {pmid26839493, year = {2016}, author = {}, title = {Notice of Retraction: Pak CS, et al. A Phase III, Randomized, Double-Blind, Matched-Pairs, Active-Controlled Clinical Trial and Preclinical Animal Study to Compare the Durability, Efficacy and Safety between Polynucleotide Filler and Hyaluronic Acid Filler in the Correction of Crow's Feet: A New Concept of Regenerative Filler. J Korean Med Sci 2014; 29(Suppl 3): S201-S209.}, journal = {Journal of Korean medical science}, volume = {31}, number = {2}, pages = {330}, pmid = {26839493}, issn = {1598-6357}, }
@article {pmid26835849, year = {2016}, author = {Bugnyar, T and Reber, SA and Buckner, C}, title = {Ravens attribute visual access to unseen competitors.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {10506}, pmid = {26835849}, issn = {2041-1723}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Competitive Behavior/*physiology ; *Crows ; Female ; Generalization, Psychological ; Male ; Theory of Mind/*physiology ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Recent studies purported to demonstrate that chimpanzees, monkeys and corvids possess a basic Theory of Mind, the ability to attribute mental states like seeing to others. However, these studies remain controversial because they share a common confound: the conspecific's line of gaze, which could serve as an associative cue. Here, we show that ravens Corvus corax take into account the visual access of others, even when they cannot see a conspecific. Specifically, we find that ravens guard their caches against discovery in response to the sounds of conspecifics when a peephole is open but not when it is closed. Our results suggest that ravens can generalize from their own perceptual experience to infer the possibility of being seen. These findings confirm and unite previous work, providing strong evidence that ravens are more than mere behaviour-readers.}, }
@article {pmid26814376, year = {2016}, author = {Michiels, T and Welby, S and Vanrobaeys, M and Quinet, C and Rouffaer, L and Lens, L and Martel, A and Butaye, P}, title = {Prevalence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum and Mycoplasma synoviae in commercial poultry, racing pigeons and wild birds in Belgium.}, journal = {Avian pathology : journal of the W.V.P.A}, volume = {45}, number = {2}, pages = {244-252}, doi = {10.1080/03079457.2016.1145354}, pmid = {26814376}, issn = {1465-3338}, mesh = {Animals ; Belgium/epidemiology ; Birds ; Columbidae ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay/veterinary ; Female ; Male ; Mycoplasma Infections/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; Mycoplasma gallisepticum/*isolation &amp; purification ; Mycoplasma synoviae/*isolation &amp; purification ; Poultry ; Poultry Diseases/*epidemiology/microbiology ; Prevalence ; Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; }, abstract = {Mycoplasma gallisepticum is the most important pathogenic avian Mycoplasma species and causes chronic respiratory disease in poultry. In addition, the prevalence of Mycoplasma synoviae is of increasing concern in several EU member states. We investigated the prevalence of M. gallisepticum in commercial poultry (5220 layers, 1224 broilers and 1020 meat turkeys), 56 racing pigeons and 890 wild birds (Order Anseriformes, Galliformes, Pelecaniformes, Accipitriformes, Gruiformes, Charadriiformes, Columbiformes, Strigiformes, Falconiformes and Passeriformes). Broilers and wild birds were also evaluated for Mycoplasma synoviae. Dependent on the bird lifespan and the nature of the sample, different diagnostic tests were used including the rapid plate agglutination test, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), polymerase chain reaction and real-time polymerase chain reaction. A low prevalence of M. gallisepticum was found in both layers (0.9%; 95% CI: 0.7-1.2%) and broilers (2.7%; 95% CI: 1.9-3.8%) possibly due to reduced vertical transmission by breeder farms, which are under official surveillance. None of the samples from turkeys or racing pigeons tested positive. In wild birds, we found five birds were positive (1.7%; 95% CI: 0.7-3.9%): one wood pigeon, two grey herons, one mallard and one Eurasian magpie. For M. synoviae a high prevalence was found in broilers (12.9%: 95% CI: 11.1-14.9%). Four samples collected by hunters gave a positive result for M. synoviae (4%: 95% CI: 1.6-9.8%): one carrion crow and three wood pigeons. In addition, 12 house sparrows were found to be positive (3%; 95% CI: 1.7-5.2%). Wild birds probably play a limited role as a reservoir but we cannot exclude a possible impact on transmission of Mycoplasmas.}, }
@article {pmid26809620, year = {2016}, author = {Pesendorfer, MB and Koenig, WD}, title = {The effect of within-year variation in acorn crop size on seed harvesting by avian hoarders.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {181}, number = {1}, pages = {97-106}, pmid = {26809620}, issn = {1432-1939}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Birds ; Diet ; Ecology ; *Feeding Behavior ; Germination ; Quercus/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; *Seed Dispersal ; Seeds/*growth &amp; development ; Species Specificity ; Trees/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Spatial and temporal variation in resource distribution affect the movement and foraging behavior of many animals. In the case of animal-dispersed trees, numerous studies have addressed masting-the synchronized variation in seed production between years-but the fitness consequences of spatial variation in seed production within a year are unclear. We investigated the effects of variable acorn production in a population of valley oaks (Quercus lobata) on the composition and behavior of the avian-disperser community. We found that western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica), high-quality dispersers that store seeds in the ground, were attracted to, and exhibited increased per capita dispersal rates from, trees with large acorn crops. In contrast, acorn woodpeckers (Melanerpes formicivorus), low-quality dispersers that store acorns in trees where they are unlikely to germinate, increased per capita hoarding rates but did not attend trees with large seed crops in higher numbers, suggesting that the two species responded to resources on different spatial scales. Antagonistic interactions within and between species increased with the number of birds attending a tree, resulting in a potential cost for foraging birds, but did not reduce dispersal rates. Using a simulation model, we estimated that trees with large initial crops experienced a greater proportion (77 %) of high-quality seed dispersal events than trees with small crops (62 %). Our findings provide support for a mechanistic link between seed production and foraging behavior of seed dispersers as predicted by the predator dispersal hypothesis for the functional consequences of variable seed production in hoarder-dispersed trees.}, }
@article {pmid26806602, year = {2016}, author = {Beatty, J}, title = {What are narratives good for?.}, journal = {Studies in history and philosophy of biological and biomedical sciences}, volume = {58}, number = {}, pages = {33-40}, doi = {10.1016/j.shpsc.2015.12.016}, pmid = {26806602}, issn = {1879-2499}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; *Narration/history ; Natural History/history ; Philosophy/history ; Science/*history ; }, abstract = {Narratives may be easy to come by, but not everything is worth narrating. What merits a narrative? Here, I follow the lead of narratologists and literary theorists, and focus on one particular proposal concerning the elements of a story that make it narrative-worthy. These elements correspond to features of the natural world addressed by the historical sciences, where narratives figure so prominently. What matters is contingency. Narratives are especially good for representing contingency and accounting for contingent outcomes. This will be squared with a common view that narratives leave no room for chance. On the contrary, I will argue, tracing one path through a maze of alternative possibilities, and alluding to those possibilities along the way, is what a narrative does particularly well.}, }
@article {pmid26806065, year = {2016}, author = {Gupta, D and Sharma, D and Kannan, N and Prapruettham, S and Mock, C and Wang, J and Qiu, Q and Pandey, RM and Mahapatra, A and Dash, HH and Hecker, JG and Rivara, FP and Rowhani-Rahbar, A and Vavilala, MS}, title = {Guideline Adherence and Outcomes in Severe Adult Traumatic Brain Injury for the CHIRAG (Collaborative Head Injury and Guidelines) Study.}, journal = {World neurosurgery}, volume = {89}, number = {}, pages = {169-179}, pmid = {26806065}, issn = {1878-8769}, support = {R21 NS077444/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Brain Injuries, Traumatic/mortality/physiopathology/*therapy ; Female ; Glasgow Outcome Scale ; *Guideline Adherence ; Hospital Mortality ; Humans ; India ; Intensive Care Units ; Intracranial Pressure ; Male ; Patient Discharge ; Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Prospective Studies ; Retrospective Studies ; Risk ; Trauma Centers ; Treatment Outcome ; Washington ; }, abstract = {We examined the effect of early intensive care unit (ICU) adherence to 2007 Brain Trauma Foundation Guideline indicators after traumatic brain injury (TBI) on inpatient mortality at a level 1 trauma center in India (Jay Prakash Narayan Apex Trauma Center [JPNATC]) and Harborview Medical Center (HMC) in U.S. among adults older than 18 years with severe TBI. At each site, ICU Guideline adherence in first 72 hours for 17 indicators was determined and expressed as a percentage. Outcomes were in-hospital mortality and Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) scores at 3, 6, and 12 months after discharge. JPNATC and HMC Guideline adherence rates were 74.9% [11.0] and 71.6 % (SD ±10.4), and overall in-hospital mortality was 24% and 27%, respectively. At JPNATC, less than 65% ICU Guideline adherence was associated with higher inpatient mortality (adjusted relative risk [aRR], 1.92; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.11-3.33) and an increase in ICU Guideline adherence rate by 1% was associated with a 3% lower in-hospital mortality (aRR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.95-0.99). Among patients discharged with a GOS score of 2-4 at JPNATC, 67% improved at 12 months (R(2) = 0.991; P < 0.01; 99% follow-up rate) compared with discharge, but 35%, 25%, and 14% of patients discharged with a GOS score of 3-5 deteriorated at 3, 6, and 12 months to a lower GOS at home. Achieving early ICU adherence to guideline indicators was feasible and associated with significantly lower in-hospital mortality at JPNATC. Although the intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring rates varied, in-hospitals deaths were similar between the two institutions. Although long-term outcomes generally improved, patients discharged with favorable GOS score often deteriorated at home.}, }
@article {pmid26803346, year = {2016}, author = {Chien, AL and Qi, J and Cheng, N and Do, TT and Mesfin, M and Egbers, R and Xie, W and Chow, C and Chubb, H and Sachs, D and Voorhees, J and Kang, S}, title = {Perioral wrinkles are associated with female gender, aging, and smoking: Development of a gender-specific photonumeric scale.}, journal = {Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology}, volume = {74}, number = {5}, pages = {924-930}, doi = {10.1016/j.jaad.2015.11.042}, pmid = {26803346}, issn = {1097-6787}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*physiology ; Cohort Studies ; Confidence Intervals ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; *Life Style ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Mouth ; Multivariate Analysis ; *Photography ; Regression Analysis ; Risk Factors ; Skin Aging/*physiology ; Smoking/*adverse effects ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Perioral wrinkling is commonly reported among older adults, but its objective evaluation and causes remain poorly understood.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: We sought to develop a photonumeric scale for perioral wrinkling and to elucidate contributory lifestyle factors.<br><br>METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, we recruited participants for facial photographs and a survey. A gender-specific photonumeric scale for perioral wrinkling was developed and used by 3 graders to evaluate participant photographs. Scores and survey responses were used to create a multiple regression model to predict perioral wrinkling.<br><br>RESULTS: In all, 143 participants aged 21 to 91 years were enrolled. Intraclass correlation coefficient values for interrater and intrarater reliability were high (>0.8) across 2 trials and 3 graders. A multiple regression model for prediction of perioral wrinkling severity included age, gender, and years of smoking as variables.<br><br>LIMITATIONS: The study was limited by sample size and a predominantly Caucasian study population.<br><br>CONCLUSION: We created a photonumeric scale that accounts for gender differences in perioral wrinkling and highlighted contributory variables to photoaging in this anatomical location.}, }
@article {pmid26801495, year = {2016}, author = {Vernouillet, A and Anderson, J and Clary, D and Kelly, DM}, title = {Inhibition in Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana): results of a detour-reaching test.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {661-665}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-016-0952-y}, pmid = {26801495}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Cognition ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Learning ; Male ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Problem Solving ; Spatial Behavior/physiology ; }, abstract = {Inhibition (i.e. the ability to restrain ineffective responses to a given stimulus) is a good indicator of complex cognitive abilities in animals. Inhibition has been demonstrated in a broad range of mammals with foraging style and social group size identified as potential influences of this ability. Whether these ecological factors also apply to birds has not been well studied. Corvids, a family of birds well known for being able to accomplish difficult cognitive tasks often requiring inhibition, are a good model for studying inhibitory control. During this study, we measured the ability of Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana), a relatively non-social, food specialist corvid to exercise inhibitory control during a detour-reaching test. Individuals had to retrieve a pine nut inserted into a transparent tube through one of the side openings without pecking directly at the nut from the front of the tube. Overall, nutcrackers were able to inhibit pecking directly at the food (i.e. prepotent response), instead detouring to the side to retrieve the reward. However, the nutcrackers first required a learning period before showing inhibitory control. The nutcrackers' ability to inhibit was lower than other corvids studied to date, and we discuss the implications of this result for the role of sociality and dietary breadth for the evolution of inhibitory control.}, }
@article {pmid26798018, year = {2016}, author = {}, title = {Erratum for the Report "A plant miRNA contributes to antibacterial resistance by repressing auxin signaling" by L. Navarro, P. Dunoyer, F. Jay, B. Arnold, N. Dharmasiri, M. Estelle, O. Voinnet, J. D. G. Jones.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {351}, number = {6271}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1126/science.aae0382}, pmid = {26798018}, issn = {1095-9203}, }
@article {pmid26793670, year = {2015}, author = {Habibzadeh, A and Pourabdol, S and Saravani, S}, title = {The effect of emotion regulation training in decreasing emotion failures and self-injurious behaviors among students suffering from specific learning disorder (SLD).}, journal = {Medical journal of the Islamic Republic of Iran}, volume = {29}, number = {}, pages = {279}, pmid = {26793670}, issn = {1016-1430}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: A great deal of attention has been given to the study of learning disorders. Hence, the aim of this research was to study the effect of emotion regulation training in decreasing emotion failures and self-injurious behaviors among students suffering from specific learning disorder.<br><br>METHODS: This was an experimental study with the pre-test, post-test and a control group. Research population included all 5th grade male students suffering from specific learning disorder (case study: 5th grade students in Ardabil in 2015). Research sample included 40 male students suffering from specific learning disorder (SLD) who were selected through multi-step cluster sampling and classified into two groups: Experimental group (n= 20) and control group (n= 20). The following tools were used for data collection: Kay Math mathematic Test, Raven Intelligence Test, Reading Test of Shafiei et al, Falahchay Writing Expression, Emotion Failures Scale, Self-Injurious Behavior Questionnaire and Diagnostic Interview based on DSM-5. Data were analyzed by multivariate of variance analysis (MANOVA) model in the SPSS software version 22.<br><br>RESULTS: The results of MANOVA revealed that emotion regulation training was effective in decreasing emotion failures in all parameters (difficulty in describing feelings, difficulty in identifying feelings, and externally oriented thinking style) and self-injurious behaviors in students suffering from specific learning disorder (p< 0.001).<br><br>CONCLUSION: In this study, it was found that since emotion regulation training can have a remarkable effect on reducing negative emotions and increasing the positive ones; this treatment can play an eminent role in decreasing emotion failures and self-injurious behaviors in such students.}, }
@article {pmid26791094, year = {2016}, author = {Hesketh, I}, title = {Counterfactuals and history: Contingency and convergence in histories of science and life.}, journal = {Studies in history and philosophy of biological and biomedical sciences}, volume = {58}, number = {}, pages = {41-48}, doi = {10.1016/j.shpsc.2015.12.015}, pmid = {26791094}, issn = {1879-2499}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Biology/*history ; History ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Philosophy/history ; Science/*history ; }, abstract = {This article examines a series of recent histories of science that have attempted to consider how science may have developed in slightly altered historical realities. These works have, moreover, been influenced by debates in evolutionary science about the opposing forces of contingency and convergence in regard to Stephen Jay Gould's notion of "replaying life's tape." The article argues that while the historians under analysis seem to embrace contingency in order to present their counterfactual narratives, for the sake of historical plausibility they are forced to accept a fairly weak role for contingency in shaping the development of science. It is therefore argued that Simon Conway Morris's theory of evolutionary convergence comes closer to describing the restrained counterfactual worlds imagined by these historians of science than does contingency.}, }
@article {pmid26790344, year = {2016}, author = {Sepkoski, D}, title = {"Replaying Life's Tape": Simulations, metaphors, and historicity in Stephen Jay Gould's view of life.}, journal = {Studies in history and philosophy of biological and biomedical sciences}, volume = {58}, number = {}, pages = {73-81}, doi = {10.1016/j.shpsc.2015.12.009}, pmid = {26790344}, issn = {1879-2499}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Life ; *Metaphor ; Paleontology/history/*methods ; United States ; }, abstract = {In a famous thought experiment, Stephen Jay Gould asked whether, if one could somehow rewind the history of life back to its initial starting point, the same results would obtain when the "tape" was run forward again. This hypothetical experiment is generally understood as a metaphor supporting Gould's philosophy of evolutionary contingency, which he developed and promoted from the late 1980s until his death in 2002. However, there was a very literal, non-metaphorical inspiration for Gould's thought experiment: since the early 1970s, Gould, along with a group of other paleontologists, was actively engaged in attempts to model and reconstruct the history of life using computer simulations and database analysis. These simulation projects not only demonstrate the impact that computers had on data analysis in paleontology, but also shed light on the close relationship between models and empirical data in data-oriented science. In a sense, I will argue, the models developed by paleontologists through simulation and quantitative analysis of the empirical fossil record in the 1970s and beyond were literal attempts to "replay life's tape" by reconstructing the history of life as data.}, }
@article {pmid26781634, year = {2016}, author = {Zarrintab, M and Mirzaei, R and Mostafaei, G and Dehghani, R and Akbari, H}, title = {Concentrations of Metals in Feathers of Magpie (Pica pica) from Aran-O-Bidgol City in Central Iran.}, journal = {Bulletin of environmental contamination and toxicology}, volume = {96}, number = {4}, pages = {465-471}, doi = {10.1007/s00128-016-1733-7}, pmid = {26781634}, issn = {1432-0800}, mesh = {Animals ; Cities ; Environmental Monitoring/*methods ; Environmental Pollutants/*analysis ; Feathers/*chemistry ; Female ; Iran ; Male ; Metals, Heavy/*analysis ; *Passeriformes ; Sex Factors ; Urbanization ; }, abstract = {The present study aims to measure Zn, Cu, Pb and Cd concentrations in feathers of Magpies in urban areas to investigate the possibility of using Magpies to monitor metal contamination in urban areas. A total of 15 bird samples were collected in October 2013 from Aran-O-Bidgol City, in Central Iran and the concentration of metals were measured using a PerkinElmer ICP-OES. The average concentrations of Zn, Cu, Pb and Cd in the feathers were 167.16, 26.74, 9.29 and 1.583 µg/g dw, respectively. There were no significant differences in metal concentrations between various genders, ages and sites. However, the highest and lowest concentrations of non-essential elements were observed in the adult males and adult females, respectively. Significant correlations were observed between the concentrations of Cu and Zn as well as Pb and Cd. Moreover, wing length had the highest correlation with metals concentrations.}, }
@article {pmid26779962, year = {2016}, author = {Mahat, NA and Zainol-Abidin, NL and Nordin, NH and Abdul-Wahab, R and Jayaprakash, PT}, title = {Patterns of oviposition and development of Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) and Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) on burned rabbit carcasses.}, journal = {Forensic science international}, volume = {260}, number = {}, pages = {9-13}, doi = {10.1016/j.forsciint.2015.12.047}, pmid = {26779962}, issn = {1872-6283}, mesh = {Animals ; *Body Remains ; *Burns ; Diptera/*physiology ; *Feeding Behavior ; Fires ; Forensic Pathology ; Models, Animal ; *Oviposition ; Postmortem Changes ; Rabbits ; }, abstract = {Considering that crimes against animals such as illegal killing and cruelty have been alarmingly increasing and since burning is one of the common ways for disposing cadavers, ability to estimate minimum postmortem interval (PMI) using entomological data merits consideration. Chrysomya megacephala and Chrysomya rufifacies are common necrophagous species recovered from cadavers in many countries including Malaysia. Specific studies focusing on the oviposition and developmental patterns of both species on cadavers manifesting different levels of burn as described by the Crow-Glassman Scale (CGS) remain scarce. In four replicates, rabbit carcasses were burned to CGS levels #1, #2 and #3 by varying the amount of petrol used and duration of burning. Oviposition by C. megacephala and C. rufifacies was delayed by one day in the case of carcasses burned to the CGS level #3 (p<0.05) when compared with that of controls. Such delay in oviposition was not observed in the CGS level #1 and #2 carcasses. No significant differences (p>0.05) in the duration of development were found between control and burned carcasses. These findings deserve consideration while estimating minimum PMI since burning as a mean for disposing animal and human cadavers is gaining popularity.}, }
@article {pmid26766769, year = {2016}, author = {Harris, B}, title = {Franz Samelson (1923-2015).}, journal = {The American psychologist}, volume = {71}, number = {1}, pages = {76}, doi = {10.1037/a0039683}, pmid = {26766769}, issn = {1935-990X}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Kansas ; Psychology, Social/*history ; }, abstract = {Franz Samelson, social psychologist and historian of psychology, died in Manhattan, Kansas, on March 16, 2015. Franz joined the Psychology Department at Kansas State University (KSU) in 1957 and rose through the ranks to retire as Professor in 1990. At KSU he taught social psychology informed by his dislike of narrow empiricism and a growing interest in historical topics. The history of social psychology, Franz believed, was distorted by post-World War II desires for value-free empiricism. Gordon Allport, he showed, created an origin myth for the field that suited his values, obscuring the ideological diversity of his predecessors. Turning to intelligence and intelligence testing, Franz's research again altered the scholarly landscape. Although it was long believed that psychologists' testing in World War I demonstrated the usefulness of their young science, Franz revealed this to be another disciplinary myth. Next, Franz showed that a popular history of IQ testing (Stephen Jay Gould's Mismeasure of Man) was distorted by the author's liberal enthusiasm-again showing his willingness to take on the political left as well as the right.}, }
@article {pmid26750508, year = {2016}, author = {Power, D}, title = {The use of the analyst as an autistic shape.}, journal = {The International journal of psycho-analysis}, volume = {97}, number = {4}, pages = {975-998}, doi = {10.1111/1745-8315.12284}, pmid = {26750508}, issn = {1745-8315}, mesh = {*Defense Mechanisms ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Professional-Patient Relations ; Psychoanalytic Therapy/*methods ; }, abstract = {In this paper I describe through detailed clinical material the challenges posed by patients who employ entangled autistic defenses. I discuss the complicated nature of treating a patient who employed entangled autistic defenses and utilized my voice in an effort to preserve an undifferentiated state of dual unity. My patient's pursuit of dual unity took a very concrete form in her attempt to mitigate the terror of separateness. This concreteness was expressed via the patient's urgent request that I read letters she wrote to me between sessions. This type of autistic defense placed great strain on my ability to think analytically and I also became increasingly concrete in my response to the patient. Crucial to the analyst's regaining a space in which to think and a sense of separateness is the ability to contact the ground floor of her separate bodily experience. This is just the beginning step in the analyst separating herself from the powerful press to join the patient in a state of dual unity. Interpretation in action (Ogden, 1994) was an effective way to convey the importance of creating and tolerating internal space in myself and begin to create internal space in the patient. Previously such space had been closed down in order to manage primitive fears of annihilation. When a patient is absorbed in an entangling autistic retreat words do not reach the patient on a symbolic level but rather are experienced primarily as an assault on the need for dual unity with the analyst. The patient's need to be wrapped in a sensation based world of dual unity is preferable to a world of spoken words that carry the danger of delineating psychic separateness. In essence there is no self to speak words, only a whirl of an amorphous sensation self lacking definition. I believe with certain kinds of patients it may be necessary to first lose and then work to regain one's analytic mind, as I have powerfully described in the case of Linda. Linda's profound loss of connection to the ground floor of her experience could only begin to be addressed when I worked to extricate myself from 'our magic carpet ride' of dual unity, contacting the reality of my bodily experience, and begin to tolerate the terror I felt regarding my separateness from Linda. I also describe the confusing vacillation between entangled and encapsulated defenses in patients like Linda as previously identified by Cohen and Jay (1996). Ultimately, this kind of slow difficult analytic work began to help Linda develop a capacity to think and provided an alternative to the deadened world of her autistic protections.}, }
@article {pmid26726808, year = {2016}, author = {Baker, SE and Sharp, TM and Macdonald, DW}, title = {Assessing Animal Welfare Impacts in the Management of European Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), European Moles (Talpa europaea) and Carrion Crows (Corvus corone).}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {e0146298}, pmid = {26726808}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animal Culling/ethics/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/*methods ; Animal Distribution ; *Animal Welfare/ethics/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; *Crows ; Euthanasia, Animal/ethics/methods ; Human Activities ; Models, Theoretical ; *Moles ; Pest Control/ethics/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/*methods ; *Rabbits ; Restraint, Physical/ethics/instrumentation/methods ; United Kingdom ; Wounds and Injuries/prevention &amp; control/veterinary ; Wounds, Gunshot/veterinary ; }, abstract = {Human-wildlife conflict is a global issue. Attempts to manage this conflict impact upon wild animal welfare, an issue receiving little attention until relatively recently. Where human activities harm animal welfare these effects should be minimised where possible. However, little is known about the welfare impacts of different wildlife management interventions, and opinions on impacts vary widely. Welfare impacts therefore need to be assessed objectively. Our objectives were to: 1) establish whether an existing welfare assessment model could differentiate and rank the impacts of different wildlife management interventions (for decision-making purposes); 2) identify and evaluate any additional benefits of making formal welfare assessments; and 3) illustrate issues raised by application of the model. We applied the welfare assessment model to interventions commonly used with rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), moles (Talpa europaea) and crows (Corvus corone) in the UK. The model ranked interventions for rabbits (least impact first: fencing, head shot, chest shot) and crows (shooting, scaring, live trapping with cervical dislocation). For moles, managing molehills and tunnels scored least impact. Both spring trapping, and live trapping followed by translocation, scored greater impacts, but these could not be compared directly as they scored on different axes of the model. Some rankings appeared counter-intuitive, highlighting the need for objective formal welfare assessments. As well as ranking the humaneness of interventions, the model highlighted future research needs and how Standard Operating Procedures might be improved. The model is a milestone in assessing wildlife management welfare impacts, but our research revealed some limitations of the model and we discuss likely challenges in resolving these. In future, the model might be developed to improve its utility, e.g. by refining the time-scales. It might also be used to reach consensus among stakeholders about relative welfare impacts or to identify ways of improving wildlife management practice in the field.}, }
@article {pmid28989931, year = {2016}, author = {Bird, SR and Held, S and McCormick, A and Hallett, J and Martin, C and Trottier, C}, title = {The Impact of Historical and Current Loss on Chronic Illness: Perceptions of Crow (Apsáalooke) People.}, journal = {International journal of indigenous health}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {198-210}, pmid = {28989931}, issn = {2291-9376}, support = {P20 GM103474/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; P20 GM104417/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; U54 GM104944/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this research was to gain a better understanding of perceptions about the impact of historical and current loss on Apsáalooke (Crow) people acquiring and coping with chronic illness. This study took a qualitative phenomenological approach by interviewing community members with chronic illness in order to gain insight into their perceptions and experiences. Participants emphasized 10 areas of impact of historical and current loss: the link between mental health and physical health/health behaviors; resiliency and strengths; connection and isolation; importance of language and language loss; changes in cultural knowledge and practices; diet; grieving; racism and discrimination; changes in land use and ownership; and boarding schools. The findings from this research are being used to develop a chronic illness self-care management program for Crow people.}, }
@article {pmid28327363, year = {2016}, author = {O'Neill, JA}, title = {Jay L. Grosfeld, MD, May 1935-October 2016.}, journal = {Journal of pediatric surgery}, volume = {51}, number = {12}, pages = {1905-1906}, doi = {10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2016.10.044}, pmid = {28327363}, issn = {1531-5037}, }
@article {pmid26711036, year = {2016}, author = {Hiono, T and Okamatsu, M and Yamamoto, N and Ogasawara, K and Endo, M and Kuribayashi, S and Shichinohe, S and Motohashi, Y and Chu, DH and Suzuki, M and Ichikawa, T and Nishi, T and Abe, Y and Matsuno, K and Tanaka, K and Tanigawa, T and Kida, H and Sakoda, Y}, title = {Experimental infection of highly and low pathogenic avian influenza viruses to chickens, ducks, tree sparrows, jungle crows, and black rats for the evaluation of their roles in virus transmission.}, journal = {Veterinary microbiology}, volume = {182}, number = {}, pages = {108-115}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2015.11.009}, pmid = {26711036}, issn = {1873-2542}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; *Birds ; Disease Reservoirs/*veterinary ; Influenza A virus/classification/*pathogenicity ; Influenza in Birds/mortality/*virology ; Orthomyxoviridae Infections/*veterinary/virology ; Rats ; Virulence ; }, abstract = {Highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) have spread in both poultry and wild birds. Determining transmission routes of these viruses during an outbreak is essential for the control of avian influenza. It has been widely postulated that migratory ducks play crucial roles in the widespread dissemination of HPAIVs in poultry by carrying viruses along with their migrations; however close contacts between wild migratory ducks and poultry are less likely in modern industrial poultry farming settings. Therefore, we conducted experimental infections of HPAIVs and low pathogenic avian influenza viruses (LPAIVs) to chickens, domestic ducks, tree sparrows, jungle crows, and black rats to evaluate their roles in virus transmission. The results showed that chickens, ducks, sparrows, and crows were highly susceptible to HPAIV infection. Significant titers of virus were recovered from the sparrows and crows infected with HPAIVs, which suggests that they potentially play roles of transmission of HPAIVs to poultry. In contrast, the growth of LPAIVs was limited in each of the animals tested compared with that of HPAIVs. The present results indicate that these common synanthropes play some roles in influenza virus transmission from wild birds to poultry.}, }
@article {pmid26705501, year = {2015}, author = {Hu, D and Gong, Y and Hannaford, B and Seibel, EJ}, title = {Path Planning for Semi-automated Simulated Robotic Neurosurgery.}, journal = {Proceedings of the ... IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems. IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems}, volume = {2015}, number = {}, pages = {2639-2645}, pmid = {26705501}, issn = {2153-0858}, support = {R01 EB016457/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {This paper considers the semi-automated robotic surgical procedure for removing the brain tumor margins, where the manual operation is a tedious and time-consuming task for surgeons. We present robust path planning methods for robotic ablation of tumor residues in various shapes, which are represented in point-clouds instead of analytical geometry. Along with the path plans, corresponding metrics are also delivered to the surgeon for selecting the optimal candidate in the automated robotic ablation. The selected path plan is then executed and tested on RAVEN[™] II surgical robot platform as part of the semi-automated robotic brain tumor ablation surgery in a simulated tissue phantom.}, }
@article {pmid26705267, year = {2015}, author = {Kárpáti, J and Donauer, N and Somogyi, E and Kónya, A}, title = {Working Memory Integration Processes in Benign Childhood Epilepsy with Centrotemporal Spikes.}, journal = {Cognitive and behavioral neurology : official journal of the Society for Behavioral and Cognitive Neurology}, volume = {28}, number = {4}, pages = {207-214}, doi = {10.1097/WNN.0000000000000075}, pmid = {26705267}, issn = {1543-3641}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Epilepsy, Rolandic/complications/*physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory Disorders/etiology/*physiopathology ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE AND BACKGROUND: Benign epilepsy of childhood with centrotemporal spikes (BECTS) is the most frequent focal epilepsy in children; however, the pattern of affected memory processes remains controversial. Previous studies in BECTS imply deficits in complex working memory tasks, but not in simple modality-specific tasks. We studied working memory processes in children with BECTS by comparing performance in memory binding tasks of different complexities.<br><br>METHODS: We compared 17 children with BECTS (aged 6 to 13 years) to 17 healthy children matched for age, sex, and intelligence quotient. We measured spatial and verbal memory components separately and jointly on three single-binding tasks (binding of what and where; what and when; and where and when) and a combined-binding task (integration of what, where, and when). We also evaluated basic visuospatial memory functions with subtests of the Children's Memory Scale, and intellectual abilities with verbal tasks of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Fourth Edition and the Raven Progressive Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: We found no difference between the BECTS and control groups in single-binding tasks; however, the children with BECTS performed significantly worse on the combined task, which included integration of spatial, verbal, and temporal information. We found no deficits in their intellectual abilities or basic visuospatial memory functions.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Children with BECTS may have intact simple maintenance processes of working memory, but difficulty with high-level functions requiring attentional and executive resources. Our findings imply no specific memory dysfunction in BECTS, but suggest difficulties in integrating information within working memory, and possible frontal lobe disturbances.}, }
@article {pmid26701779, year = {2015}, author = {Steven, R and Morrison, C and Arthur, JM and Castley, JG}, title = {Avitourism and Australian Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {10}, number = {12}, pages = {e0144445}, pmid = {26701779}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; *Biodiversity ; Birds/*physiology ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; Endangered Species ; Geography ; Marketing ; *Recreation ; }, abstract = {Formal protected areas will not provide adequate protection to conserve all biodiversity, and are not always designated using systematic or strategic criteria. Using a systematic process, the Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) network was designed to highlight areas of conservation significance for birds (i.e. IBA trigger species), and more recently general biodiversity. Land use activities that take place in IBAs are diverse, including consumptive and non-consumptive activities. Avitourism in Australia, generally a non-consumptive activity, is reliant on the IBA network and the birds IBAs aim to protect. However, companies tend not to mention IBAs in their marketing. Furthermore, avitourism, like other nature-based tourism has the potential to be both a threatening process as well as a conservation tool. We aimed to assess the current use of IBAs among Australian-based avitour companies' marketing, giving some indication of which IBAs are visited by avitourists on organised tours. We reviewed online avitour itineraries, recorded sites featuring in descriptions of avitours and which IBA trigger species are used to sell those tours. Of the 209 avitours reviewed, Queensland is the most featured state (n = 59 tours), and 73% feature at least one IBA. Daintree (n = 22) and Bruny Island (n = 17) IBAs are the most popular, nationally. Trigger species represent 34% (n = 254 out of 747) of species used in avitour descriptions. The most popular trigger species' are wetland species including; Brolga (n = 37), Black-necked Stork (n = 30) and Magpie Goose (n = 27). Opportunities exist to increase collaboration between avitour companies and IBA stakeholders. Our results can provide guidance for managing sustainability of the avitourism industry at sites that feature heavily in avitour descriptions and enhance potential cooperation between avitour companies, IBA stakeholders and bird conservation organisations.}, }
@article {pmid26701755, year = {2015}, author = {Troscianko, J and Rutz, C}, title = {Activity profiles and hook-tool use of New Caledonian crows recorded by bird-borne video cameras.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {11}, number = {12}, pages = {20150777}, pmid = {26701755}, issn = {1744-957X}, support = {BB/G023913/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/G023913/2/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Acacia ; Animals ; *Appetitive Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; Melaleuca ; New Caledonia ; *Tool Use Behavior ; Video Recording ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian crows are renowned for their unusually sophisticated tool behaviour. Despite decades of fieldwork, however, very little is known about how they make and use their foraging tools in the wild, which is largely owing to the difficulties in observing these shy forest birds. To obtain first estimates of activity budgets, as well as close-up observations of tool-assisted foraging, we equipped 19 wild crows with self-developed miniature video cameras, yielding more than 10 h of analysable video footage for 10 subjects. While only four crows used tools during recording sessions, they did so extensively: across all 10 birds, we conservatively estimate that tool-related behaviour occurred in 3% of total observation time, and accounted for 19% of all foraging behaviour. Our video-loggers provided first footage of crows manufacturing, and using, one of their most complex tool types--hooked stick tools--under completely natural foraging conditions. We recorded manufacture from live branches of paperbark (Melaleuca sp.) and another tree species (thought to be Acacia spirorbis), and deployment of tools in a range of contexts, including on the forest floor. Taken together, our video recordings reveal an 'expanded' foraging niche for hooked stick tools, and highlight more generally how crows routinely switch between tool- and bill-assisted foraging.}, }
@article {pmid26692428, year = {2015}, author = {Minahim, D and Rohde, LA}, title = {Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and intellectual giftedness: a study of symptom frequency and minor physical anomalies.}, journal = {Revista brasileira de psiquiatria (Sao Paulo, Brazil : 1999)}, volume = {37}, number = {4}, pages = {289-295}, doi = {10.1590/1516-4446-2014-1489}, pmid = {26692428}, issn = {1809-452X}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/physiopathology/*psychology ; Child ; Child, Gifted/*psychology ; Epidemiologic Methods ; Female ; Foot Deformities, Congenital ; Hand Deformities, Congenital ; Head/abnormalities ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Reference Values ; Risk Assessment ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the presence of symptoms of attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in intellectually gifted adults and children.<br><br>METHODS: Two cross-sectional studies were performed in children and adults whose intelligence quotient (IQ) had been previously evaluated using Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM) test. Seventy-seven adults displaying IQ scores above the 98th percentile were assessed using the Adult Self-Report Scale (ASRS-18) for signs of ADHD and a modified Waldrop scale for minor physical anomalies (MPAs). Thirty-nine children (grades 1-5) exhibiting IQ scores above the 99th percentile, as well as an equally matched control group, were assessed for ADHD by teachers using the Swanson, Nolan and Pelham IV Rating Scale (SNAP-IV) as used in the NIMH Collaborative Multisite Multimodal Treatment Study of Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (MTA-SNAP-IV).<br><br>RESULTS: In gifted adults, the frequency of ADHD-positive cases was 37.8%, and the total MPA score was significantly associated with ADHD (p < 0.001). In children, the ADHD-positive case frequency was 15.38% in the gifted group and 7.69% in the control group (odds ratio [OR] = 2.18, p = 0.288).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The high frequency of ADHD symptoms observed, both in gifted adults and in gifted (and non-gifted) children, further supports the validity of this diagnosis in this population. Furthermore, the significant association between MPAs and ADHD suggests that a neurodevelopmental condition underlies these symptoms.}, }
@article {pmid26691864, year = {2016}, author = {van Schoor, NM and Comijs, HC and Llewellyn, DJ and Lips, P}, title = {Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and cognitive functioning.}, journal = {International psychogeriatrics}, volume = {28}, number = {5}, pages = {759-768}, doi = {10.1017/S1041610215002252}, pmid = {26691864}, issn = {1741-203X}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*psychology ; *Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/*blood/diagnosis ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Linear Models ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Multivariate Analysis ; Netherlands ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Risk Factors ; Vitamin D/*analogs &amp; derivatives/blood ; Vitamin D Deficiency/*epidemiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vitamin D deficiency is common in older persons. The objectives of this study were: To examine the cross-sectional and longitudinal association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and cognitive functioning in older persons; and to explore the optimal cut-off for serum 25(OH)D.<br><br>METHODS: Data of the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASA) were used. Serum 25(OH)D was determined using a competitive protein binding assay in 1995/6 (n = 1,320). Cognitive functioning was assessed in 1995/6 and 1998/9 using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE, general cognitive functioning), Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM, ability of nonverbal and abstract reasoning), the Coding Task (CT, information processing speed), and the 15 Words Test (15WT, immediate memory and delayed recall). The data were analyzed using linear regression analyses and restricted cubic spline functions. The MMSE was normalized using ln(31-MMSE).<br><br>RESULTS: Mean serum 25(OH)D was 53.7 nmol/L. After adjustment for confounding, patients with serum 25(OH)D levels below 30 nmol/L had significantly lower general cognitive functioning (beta of ln(31-MMSE) = 0.122; p = 0.046) and slower information processing speed (beta = -2.177, p = 0.001) as compared with patients having serum 25(OH)D levels &#x2265; 75 nmol/L in the cross-sectional analyses. For both outcomes, the optimal cut-off was about 60 nmol/L. No other significant associations were observed.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: A lower serum 25(OH)D was significantly associated with lower general cognitive functioning and slower information processing speed, but not with a faster rate of cognitive decline.}, }
@article {pmid26691117, year = {2016}, author = {Burt, RD and Thiede, H}, title = {Reduction in Needle Sharing Among Seattle-Area Injection Drug Users Across 4 Surveys, 1994-2013.}, journal = {American journal of public health}, volume = {106}, number = {2}, pages = {301-307}, pmid = {26691117}, issn = {1541-0048}, support = {U1B PS003250/PS/NCHHSTP CDC HHS/United States ; 5U1BPS003250//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Drug Users/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; HIV Infections/epidemiology ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Multivariate Analysis ; Needle Sharing/adverse effects/*trends ; Risk-Taking ; Substance Abuse, Intravenous/*epidemiology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Washington/epidemiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: We evaluated time trends in sharing needles and other injection equipment from 1994 to 2013 among injection drug users in the Seattle, Washington area.<br><br>METHODS: We combined data from 4 sources: the Risk Activity Variables, Epidemiology, and Network (RAVEN) study, recruited from institutional settings; the Kiwi study, recruited from jails; National HIV Behavioral Surveillance system (NHBS) surveys, which used respondent-driven sampling; and surveys at needle-exchange sites.<br><br>RESULTS: Levels of needle sharing were higher in the earlier studies: RAVEN, 1994 to 1997 (43%) and Kiwi, 1998 to 2002 (61%). In the NHBS surveys, the initial level of 44% in 2005 declined to 31% in the period 2009 to 2012. Across needle-exchange surveys (2009-2013) the level was 21%. There was a parallel reduction in sharing other injection equipment. These trends persisted after control for sociodemographic and risk-associated variables. There was a contemporaneous increase in the number of needles distributed by local needle exchanges and a decline in the number of reported HIV cases among injection drug users.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The apparent long-term reduction in sharing injection equipment suggests substantial success in public health efforts to reduce the sharing of injection equipment.}, }
@article {pmid26686280, year = {2015}, author = {Parnell, AJ and Washington, AL and Mykhaylyk, OO and Hill, CJ and Bianco, A and Burg, SL and Dennison, AJ and Snape, M and Cadby, AJ and Smith, A and Prevost, S and Whittaker, DM and Jones, RA and Fairclough, JP and Parker, AR}, title = {Spatially modulated structural colour in bird feathers.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {18317}, pmid = {26686280}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Color ; Feathers/metabolism/*ultrastructure ; Keratins/*metabolism ; Microscopy, Electron, Transmission ; Passeriformes/anatomy &amp; histology/*metabolism ; *Pigmentation ; Ultraviolet Rays ; }, abstract = {Eurasian Jay (Garrulus glandarius) feathers display periodic variations in the reflected colour from white through light blue, dark blue and black. We find the structures responsible for the colour are continuous in their size and spatially controlled by the degree of spinodal phase separation in the corresponding region of the feather barb. Blue structures have a well-defined broadband ultra-violet (UV) to blue wavelength distribution; the corresponding nanostructure has characteristic spinodal morphology with a lengthscale of order 150 nm. White regions have a larger 200 nm nanostructure, consistent with a spinodal process that has coarsened further, yielding broader wavelength white reflectance. Our analysis shows that nanostructure in single bird feather barbs can be varied continuously by controlling the time the keratin network is allowed to phase separate before mobility in the system is arrested. Dynamic scaling analysis of the single barb scattering data implies that the phase separation arrest mechanism is rapid and also distinct from the spinodal phase separation mechanism i.e. it is not gelation or intermolecular re-association. Any growing lengthscale using this spinodal phase separation approach must first traverse the UV and blue wavelength regions, growing the structure by coarsening, resulting in a broad distribution of domain sizes.}, }
@article {pmid26683184, year = {2015}, author = {Malik, A and Mallajosyula, VV and Mishra, NN and Varadarajan, R and Gupta, SK}, title = {Generation and Characterization of Monoclonal Antibodies Specific to Avian Influenza H5N1 Hemagglutinin Protein.}, journal = {Monoclonal antibodies in immunodiagnosis and immunotherapy}, volume = {34}, number = {6}, pages = {436-441}, doi = {10.1089/mab.2015.0047}, pmid = {26683184}, issn = {2167-9436}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/*biosynthesis ; Antibodies, Viral/*biosynthesis ; Antibody Specificity ; Ascites/immunology ; Cross Reactions ; Female ; Hemagglutination Inhibition Tests ; Hemagglutinin Glycoproteins, Influenza Virus/administration &amp; dosage/*analysis/genetics/immunology ; Humans ; Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype/chemistry/immunology ; Influenza A Virus, H3N2 Subtype/chemistry/immunology ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/chemistry/*immunology ; Influenza A Virus, H7N9 Subtype/chemistry/immunology ; Kinetics ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred BALB C ; Protein Binding ; Recombinant Proteins/administration &amp; dosage/analysis/genetics/immunology ; }, abstract = {Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus has in the past breached the species barrier from infected domestic poultry to humans in close contact. Although human-to-human transmission has previously not been reported, HPAI H5N1 virus has pandemic potential owing to gain of function mutation(s) and/or genetic reassortment with human influenza A viruses. Monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) have been used for diagnosis as well as specific therapeutic candidates in several disease conditions including viral infections in humans. In this study, we describe the preliminary characterization of four murine MAbs developed against recombinant hemagglutinin (rHA) protein of avian H5N1 A/turkey/Turkey/1/2005 virus that are either highly specific or broadly reactive against HA from other H5N1 subtype viruses, such as A/Hong Kong/213/03, A/Common magpie/Hong Kong/2256/2006, and A/Barheaded goose/Quinghai/14/2008. The antibody binding is specific to H5N1 HAs, as none of the antibodies bound H1N1, H2N2, H3N2, or B/Brisbane/60/2008 HAs. Out of the four MAbs, one of them (MA-7) also reacted weakly with the rHA protein of H7N9 A/Anhui/1/2013. All four MAbs bound H5 HA (A/turkey/Turkey/1/2005) with high affinity with an equilibrium dissociation constant (KD) ranging between 0.05 and 10.30 nM. One of the MAbs (MA-1) also showed hemagglutination inhibition activity (HI titer; 31.25 μg/mL) against the homologous A/turkey/Turkey/1/2005 H5N1 virus. These antibodies may be useful in developing diagnostic tools for detection of influenza H5N1 virus infection.}, }
@article {pmid26679560, year = {2015}, author = {Hasan, B and Järhult, JD}, title = {Absence of vancomycin-resistant enterococci among highly ESBL-positive crows (Corvus splendens) foraging on hospital waste in Bangladesh.}, journal = {Infection ecology &amp; epidemiology}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {29761}, pmid = {26679560}, issn = {2000-8686}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) have emerged as a growing problem in hospitals; however, domesticated animals, poultry, and wild birds are acting as potential reservoirs. There is a knowledge gap in the Epidemiology of VRE from Bangladesh.<br><br>METHODS: To study the prevalence of VRE and the mechanisms of resistance implicated among wild birds, 238 fecal samples were collected in 2010 from house crows (Corvus splendens) foraging on hospital waste in Bangladesh. Fecal samples were screened by analyzing color change in broth and screening for vanA and vanB resistant genes by PCR.<br><br>RESULTS: Neither vanA nor vanB genes were detected from the fecal samples. The house crow does not seem to constitute a reservoir for VRE.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The zero prevalence is an indication that foraging on hospital waste does not constitute a major risk of VRE carriage in house crows and this is the first study to focus on the prevalence of VRE from wild birds in Bangladesh.}, }
@article {pmid26675586, year = {2016}, author = {Oravcova, V and Hadelova, D and Literak, I}, title = {Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium with vanA gene isolated for the first time from wildlife in Slovakia.}, journal = {Veterinary microbiology}, volume = {194}, number = {}, pages = {43-47}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2015.11.027}, pmid = {26675586}, issn = {1873-2542}, mesh = {Animals ; *Animals, Wild ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Bacterial Proteins/*genetics ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*microbiology ; Carbon-Oxygen Ligases/*genetics ; Crows/*microbiology ; Enterococcus faecium/drug effects/*genetics ; Feces/microbiology ; Genetic Variation ; Gram-Positive Bacterial Infections/epidemiology/*microbiology ; Prevalence ; Slovakia/epidemiology ; Vancomycin/*pharmacology ; Vancomycin Resistance/genetics ; }, abstract = {Corvids have been identified as an important vector of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) in several European countries. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of VRE in wildlife in Slovakia and to characterize vanA-carrying VRE. At the beginning of 2013, we collected 287 fecal samples of common raven (Corvus corax) in Petrovce and 99 fecal samples of rooks (Corvus frugilegus) in Kosice. Samples were cultured selectively on Slanetz-Bartley agar with vancomycin and screened for vanA, other resistance genes, and virulence genes. PCR mapping of Tn1546 carrying vanA gene was performed. Multilocus sequence typing and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis were used to examine the genotypic diversity of vanA-containing VRE. The mobility of vancomycin resistance traits was tested in vitro, using filter mating experiments. VRE with the vanA gene were found in 4 (1.4%) of 287 raven samples and in one (1%) of 99 rook samples. All 5 isolates belonged to Enterococcus faecium and were multiresistant with resistance to erythromycin encoded by the erm(B) gene, tetracycline (tet(M) and tet(L) genes), and ampicillin (mutations in C-terminal region of pbp5 gene). Isolates from Petrovce also were resistant to chloramphenicol. Virulence genes were not proven. The vanA gene was carried by Tn1546 types E (combined with insertion sequence IS1216) or F5 (IS1251). One isolate from a rook in Kosice belonged to ST (sequence type) 6 and the remaining four from ravens in Petrovce belonged to new ST917 (a single locus variant of ST18). All tested VRE were able to transfer the vancomycin resistance trait. In conclusion, we identified clinically important enterococci with the vanA gene in corvids in Slovakia.}, }
@article {pmid26673535, year = {2015}, author = {Khan, SA and Singh, RK and Navit, S and Chadha, D and Johri, N and Navit, P and Sharma, A and Bahuguna, R}, title = {Relationship Between Dental Fluorosis and Intelligence Quotient of School Going Children In and Around Lucknow District: A Cross-Sectional Study.}, journal = {Journal of clinical and diagnostic research : JCDR}, volume = {9}, number = {11}, pages = {ZC10-5}, pmid = {26673535}, issn = {2249-782X}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Fluoridation of drinking water, despite being regarded as one of the top ten public health achievements of the twentieth century, has remained a much debated concept. Various studies on animals and aborted human fetuses have confirmed that excessive fluoride intake during infancy and early childhood, causes a number of irreversible structural and functional changes in the CNS leading to memory, learning and intellectual deficits.<br><br>AIM: To compare the IQ levels of school children of two different locations, having different fluoride levels in water, and to establish a relationship between fluoride levels, prevalence of fluorosis and its effect on IQ levels.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 429 children aged 6 - 12 years, selected by stratified random sampling from two different areas with different levels of fluoride in drinking water in and around Lucknow district. Dental fluorosis was measured using Dean's Fluorosis Index. Intelligence Quotient was measured using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (1998 edition).<br><br>RESULTS: Majority of the fluorosis free children (76.3%) had an IQ grade 2 (definitely above the average). Majority of the children suffering from very mild and mild dental fluorosis were found to have IQ grade 3 (Intellectually average). Children with moderate cases of dental fluorosis were found to have IQ grade 4 (Definitely below average). Only 5 children with severe fluorosis were included in the study and they all were found to have an IQ grade 5. Hence, a trend of increase in the IQ grade (decrease in intellectual capacity) was observed indicating a strong correlation between fluorosis grade and IQ grade.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Findings of this study suggest that the overall IQ of the children exposed to high fluoride levels in drinking water and hence suffering from dental fluorosis were significantly lower than those of the low fluoride area.}, }
@article {pmid26665221, year = {2015}, author = {Papantoniou, G and Moraitou, D and Dinou, M and Katsadima, E and Savvidou, E and Foutsitzi, E and Masoura, E}, title = {Comparing the latent structure of Raven's educational coloured progressive matrices among young children and older adults: A preliminary study.}, journal = {Hellenic journal of nuclear medicine}, volume = {18 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {122-130}, pmid = {26665221}, issn = {1790-5427}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was the comparison of the general cognitive ability (g) between young children and older adults through the investigation of the latent structure qualitative changes in [R] Educational Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM) from age to age, using Confirmatory Factor Analyses (CFA) and testing a conventional unidimensional model.<br><br>METHOD: The sample consisted of 42 kindergarten and 56 elementary school students (age range: 5-8 years) and 118 new-old adults and 27 old-old adults (age range: 61-88 years). The participants' cognitive abilities were examined in: (a) the Raven's Educational CPM test, and (b) the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE).<br><br>RESULTS: CFA applied to data of the total sample, elementary school students subsample and new-old adults subsample, indicating that individual variability across [R] CPM measured variables (total scores for each of the three sets) can be modeled by one latent variable (a single underlying factor). The same pattern of [R] CPM latent structure was not verified for the subsamples of kindergarten students and old-old adults, since the variance of a single underlying factor was not found to be statistically significant.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results support the existence of a different factor structure in [R] Educational CPM between first- to second- grade elementary school students and new-old adults, on the one hand, and kindergarten students and old-old adults, on the other. This difference could possibly reflect the underdevelopment of inductive reasoning and executive functioning in the group of kindergarten students and the disorganization of them in the group of old-old adults.}, }
@article {pmid26663031, year = {2017}, author = {Biswas, PK and Giasuddin, M and Nath, BK and Islam, MZ and Debnath, NC and Yamage, M}, title = {Biosecurity and Circulation of Influenza A (H5N1) Virus in Live-Bird Markets in Bangladesh, 2012.}, journal = {Transboundary and emerging diseases}, volume = {64}, number = {3}, pages = {883-891}, doi = {10.1111/tbed.12454}, pmid = {26663031}, issn = {1865-1682}, mesh = {Animals ; Bangladesh/epidemiology ; Commerce/standards ; Communicable Disease Control/*methods ; Housing, Animal/standards ; *Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype ; Influenza in Birds/*epidemiology/prevention &amp; control/virology ; Poultry ; Prevalence ; }, abstract = {Bangladesh has been considered as one of the five countries endemic with highly pathogenic avian influenza A subtype H5N1 (HPAI H5N1). Live-bird markets (LBMs) in south Asian countries are believed to play important roles in the transmission of HPAI H5N1 and others due to its central location as a hub of the poultry trading. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has been promoting improved biosecurity in LBMs in Bangladesh. In 2012, by enrolling 32 large LBMs: 10 with FAO interventions and 22 without assistance, we assessed the virus circulation in the selected LBMs by applying standard procedures to investigate market floors, poultry stall floors, poultry-holding cases and slaughter areas and the overall biosecurity using a questionnaire-based survey. Relative risk (RR) was examined to compare the prevalence of HPAI H5N1 in the intervened and non-intervened LBMs. The measures practised in significantly more of the FAO-intervened LBMs included keeping of slaughter remnants in a closed container; decontamination of poultry vehicles at market place; prevention of crows' access to LBM, market/floor cleaning by market committee; wet cleaning; disinfection of floor/poultry stall after cleaning; and good supply of clean water at market (P < 0.05). Conversely, disposal of slaughter remnants elsewhere at market and dry cleaning were in operation in more of the FAO non-intervened LBMs (P < 0.05). The RR for HPAI H5N1 in the intervened and non-intervened LBMs was 1.1 (95% confidence interval 0.44-2.76), suggesting that the proportion positive of the virus in the two kinds of LBM did not vary significantly (P = 0.413). These observations suggest that the viruses are still maintained at the level of production in farms and circulating in LBMs in Bangladesh regardless of interventions, albeit at lower levels than in other endemic countries.}, }
@article {pmid26656724, year = {2017}, author = {Veit, L and Hartmann, K and Nieder, A}, title = {Spatially Tuned Neurons in Corvid Nidopallium Caudolaterale Signal Target Position During Visual Search.}, journal = {Cerebral cortex (New York, N.Y. : 1991)}, volume = {27}, number = {2}, pages = {1103-1112}, doi = {10.1093/cercor/bhv299}, pmid = {26656724}, issn = {1460-2199}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Executive Function ; Female ; Functional Laterality/physiology ; Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; Neurons/*physiology ; Photic Stimulation ; Prefrontal Cortex/*physiology ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Reaction Time/physiology ; Signal Detection, Psychological/*physiology ; Space Perception/*physiology ; Telencephalon/*physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The avian pallial endbrain area nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL) shows important similarities to mammalian prefrontal cortex in connectivity, dopamine neurochemistry, and function. Neuronal processing in NCL has been studied with respect to sensory, cognitive, and reward information, but little is known about its role in more direct control of motor behavior. We investigated NCL activity during the choice period of a delayed match-to-sample task, as 2 trained crows searched and selected a previously remembered visual target among an array of 4 pictures. The crows exhibited behavioral response patterns consistent with serial visual search. Many single NCL neurons were spatially tuned to specific target positions during visual search and directed motor behavior. Moreover, single NCL neurons dynamically changed their tuning properties to represent different behaviorally relevant task variables across the trial. In consecutive task periods, single neurons responded to visual stimuli, stored stimulus information in working memory, guided goal-directed behavior depending on the remembered target picture, and encoded trial outcomes. This flexible encoding of all task-relevant aspects in the executive control of goal-directed behavior represents a striking convergence to neuronal encoding in primate prefrontal cortex. These data highlight key properties of associative endbrain areas underlying flexible cognitive behavior in corvids and primates.}, }
@article {pmid26648878, year = {2015}, author = {Dimitriou, D and Le Cornu Knight, F and Milton, P}, title = {The Role of Environmental Factors on Sleep Patterns and School Performance in Adolescents.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {1717}, pmid = {26648878}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Modern life, with its many distractions, is seeing sleep quantity and quality decline during adolescence. This is a concern as research persuasively demonstrates the negative impact of reduced sleep on academic achievement, both in terms of learning and behavior.<br><br>AIMS: This study examined the relationship between sleep and school functioning in adolescence, with a focus on environmental factors that might mediate this relationship.<br><br>SAMPLE AND METHOD: Forty-seven adolescents took part. Sleep was measured using the School Sleep Habits Survey (SSHS) and a sleep diary. School records of year grade point averages provided a measure of academic achievement. Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices gave a measure of general cognitive processing. Environmental sleep factors falling into three groups, namely, stimulant consumption, media use and exercise, were measured using a self-report questionnaire.<br><br>RESULTS: An average of 7.08 h of sleep was reported. Correlations revealed that Total sleep time (TST) and bedtimes on weekdays were strongly associated with academic achievement. Morning/eveningness and sleep/wake behavior problems had a strong relationship with performance on the Ravens. Stimulant consumption and media use before bed revealed strong relationships with TST and bedtimes on weekdays. Crucially, mediation analyses confirmed that both caffeine consumption and electronic media use before bedtime were negatively associated with academic performance, via the mediating pathway by affecting sleep. Exercise was not associated with any of the sleep variables, but was associated with better academic performance.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The current findings highlight that, now more than ever, parents, schools and policy makers must be aware of the negative effects of caffeinated substances marketed to students, and electronic media use on their sleep habits. Our findings suggest that targeting caffeine consumption and electronic media use before bed may represent effective routes in alleviating modern teenage sleep debt, and in turn enhancing academic performance.}, }
@article {pmid26648582, year = {2016}, author = {Lee, C and Yang, H and Kim, S and Kim, M and Kang, H and Kim, N and An, S and Koh, J and Jung, H}, title = {Evaluation of the anti-wrinkle effect of an ascorbic acid-loaded dissolving microneedle patch via a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {38}, number = {4}, pages = {375-381}, doi = {10.1111/ics.12299}, pmid = {26648582}, issn = {1468-2494}, mesh = {Ascorbic Acid/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Middle Aged ; *Needles ; Placebos ; *Skin Aging ; Transdermal Patch ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Although an ascorbic acid-loaded dissolving microneedle patch has been developed to improve anti-wrinkle effects, an efficacy evaluation with a control group has not yet been performed. In this study, the anti-wrinkle effect of an ascorbic acid-loaded dissolving microneedle patch was evaluated in a double-blind clinical study with a control group. In addition, a cumulative skin irritation and sensitization potential of the ascorbic acid-loaded dissolving microneedle patch was performed.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty-three subjects were selected for anti-wrinkle effect evaluation in a double-blind clinical study. Subjects were divided into two groups. Group I subjects applied an ascorbic acid-loaded dissolving microneedle patch on a crow's feet area on the left side of the face and a control sample on a crow's feet area on the right side of the face every 4 days. Group II subjects placed the same patches on opposite sides of the face. Global Photodamage Score and skin replica analysis were conducted by visual inspection and skin visiometer, respectively. A skin irritation and sensitization assessment was performed on 51 subjects using the modified Shelanski &amp; Shelanski procedure. Cumulative skin irritation potential and skin sensitization of the ascorbic acid-loaded dissolving microneedle patch and control sample were evaluated.<br><br>RESULTS: Skin treated with the ascorbic acid-loaded dissolving microneedle patch showed a statistically significant improvement in both the Global Photodamage Score and visiometer R values (P < 0.05) compared with the control sample. The R2 value (maximum roughness), in particular, showed a highly significant improvement (P < 0.01). The skin irritation and sensitization assessment demonstrated that the ascorbic acid-loaded dissolving microneedle patch did not induce any cumulative skin irritation potential or skin sensitization.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: An ascorbic acid-loaded dissolving microneedle patch produced a significant anti-wrinkle effect without skin irritation and sensitization problems. This cosmetic dissolving microneedle patch can be used efficiently in the anti-wrinkle cosmetic field with patient convenience.}, }
@article {pmid26647979, year = {2015}, author = {Wójcik, A and Merecz-Kot, D and Andysz, A}, title = {Why do employees follow their superiors' instructions? Identification of the reasons to comply with superiors' will in a group of Polish employees.}, journal = {Medycyna pracy}, volume = {66}, number = {5}, pages = {605-614}, doi = {10.13075/mp.5893.00129}, pmid = {26647979}, issn = {0465-5893}, mesh = {*Administrative Personnel ; Adult ; Female ; Humans ; *Interpersonal Relations ; Male ; *Motivation ; Poland ; *Power, Psychological ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Workplace/*organization &amp; administration/*psychology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Managers influence the way organization works as well as the functioning of subordinates - in the context of their work life but non-professional functioning as well e.g., attitude towards work-life balance or taking care of health. We focused on the superior-subordinate relation, referring to social power bases theory by Raven. We identified the reasons why subordinates decide to follow their superiors' orders and determined specific styles of compliance with superiors' will. Understanding why employees listen to their superiors may be valuable in the context of supporting healthy organizational climate and atmosphere of co-operation or communicating values - for example, as regards taking care of own health. We discussed the results referring to the issue of influencing employees in the context of their health behavior.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: The research involved 100 Polish employees, aged 28 years old on average, who filled in the Interpersonal Power Inventory by Raven et al. for subordinates in a Polish adaptation by Zaleski. The questionnaire includes 11 subscales referring to power bases.<br><br>RESULTS: Based on the cluster analysis results, we recognized people who complied because of: all kinds of power bases (typical for 46% of the respondents); the respect for superiors' professionalism (34%); and formal/objective reasons (20%).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Employees differ in terms of their styles of compliance. Their motives to comply with superiors' instructions constitute compilations of power bases. The superiors' awareness of the reasons why their employees decide to follow orders is necessary for successful management. It may motivate employees to work but also to take care of their own health.}, }
@article {pmid26640647, year = {2015}, author = {Powell, R and Mariscal, C}, title = {Convergent evolution as natural experiment: the tape of life reconsidered.}, journal = {Interface focus}, volume = {5}, number = {6}, pages = {20150040}, pmid = {26640647}, issn = {2042-8898}, abstract = {Stephen Jay Gould argued that replaying the 'tape of life' would result in radically different evolutionary outcomes. Recently, biologists and philosophers of science have paid increasing attention to the theoretical importance of convergent evolution-the independent origination of similar biological forms and functions-which many interpret as evidence against Gould's thesis. In this paper, we examine the evidentiary relevance of convergent evolution for the radical contingency debate. We show that under the right conditions, episodes of convergent evolution can constitute valid natural experiments that support inferences regarding the deep counterfactual stability of macroevolutionary outcomes. However, we argue that proponents of convergence have problematically lumped causally heterogeneous phenomena into a single evidentiary basket, in effect treating all convergent events as if they are of equivalent theoretical import. As a result, the 'critique from convergent evolution' fails to engage with key claims of the radical contingency thesis. To remedy this, we develop ways to break down the heterogeneous set of convergent events based on the nature of the generalizations they support. Adopting this more nuanced approach to convergent evolution allows us to differentiate iterated evolutionary outcomes that are probably common among alternative evolutionary histories and subject to law-like generalizations, from those that do little to undermine and may even support, the Gouldian view of life.}, }
@article {pmid26636258, year = {2015}, author = {Nichols, TA and Fischer, JW and Spraker, TR and Kong, Q and VerCauteren, KC}, title = {CWD prions remain infectious after passage through the digestive system of coyotes (Canis latrans).}, journal = {Prion}, volume = {9}, number = {5}, pages = {367-375}, pmid = {26636258}, issn = {1933-690X}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain/metabolism ; Coyotes ; Gastrointestinal Tract/*metabolism ; Prions/*metabolism ; Wasting Disease, Chronic/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a geographically expanding prion disease of wild and captive cervids in North America. Disease can be transmitted directly, animal to animal, or indirectly via the environment. CWD contamination can occur residually in the environment via soil, water, and forage following deposition of bodily fluids such as urine, saliva, and feces, or by the decomposition of carcasses. Recent work has indicated that plants may even take up prions into the stems and leaves. When a carcass or gut pile is present in the environment, a large number of avian and mammalian species visit and consume the carrion. Additionally, predators like coyotes, likely select for disease-compromised cervids. Natural cross-species CWD transmission has not been documented, however, passage of infectious prion material has been observed in the feces of crows. In this study we evaluated the ability of CWD-infected brain material to pass through the gastrointestinal tract of coyotes (Canis latrans) following oral ingestion, and be infectious in a cervidized transgenic mouse model. Results from this study indicate that coyotes can pass infectious prions via their feces for at least 3 days post ingestion, demonstrating that mammalian scavengers could contribute to the translocation and contamination of CWD in the environment.}, }
@article {pmid26634133, year = {2015}, author = {Kumar, S and Sharma, S}, title = {Polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M-protein and skin changes (POEMS syndrome): a paraneoplastic syndrome.}, journal = {Oxford medical case reports}, volume = {2015}, number = {3}, pages = {237-240}, pmid = {26634133}, issn = {2053-8855}, abstract = {POEMS syndrome (Crow-Fukase syndrome) is a rare paraneoplastic disorder. It is characterized by peripheral neuropathy, elevated vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs), monoclonal gammopathy, sclerotic bone lesions and Castleman disease. Other important clinical features are organomegaly, edema, ascites, papilledema, endocrinopathy, skin changes and thrombocytosis. A high index of suspicion, a detailed clinical history and examination followed by appropriate laboratory investigations like VEGF level, radiological skeletal survey and bone marrow biopsy are required to diagnose POEMS syndrome. We report a case of POEMS syndrome who presented with insidious onset, progressive sensorimotor polyneuropathy, pedal edema, ascites, hepatomegaly, skin changes and hypothyroidism. X-ray of the pelvis showed osteosclerotic lesions. Immunoelectrophoresis using the immunofixation method revealed lambda chain monoclonal gammopathy. The patient was given radiotherapy, followed by a combination therapy of melphalan and dexamethasone. We emphasize the importance of recognizing a challenging diagnosis of a rare disease, which is shown to be treatment responsive.}, }
@article {pmid26631579, year = {2015}, author = {Wood, JJ and Lafone, L and Hamm, JM and Hess, O and Oulton, RF}, title = {Plasmonic CROWs for Tunable Dispersion and High Quality Cavity Modes.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {17724}, pmid = {26631579}, issn = {2045-2322}, abstract = {Coupled resonator optical waveguides (CROWs) have the potential to revolutionise integrated optics, to slow-light and enhance linear and non-linear optical phenomena. Here we exploit the broad resonances and subwavelength nature of localized surface plasmons in a compact CROW design where plasmonic nanoparticles are side coupled to a dielectric waveguide. The plasmonic CROW features a low loss central mode with a highly tunable dispersion, that avoids coupling to the plasmonic nanoparticles close to the band-edge. We show that this low loss character is preserved in finite plasmonic CROWs giving rise to Fabry-Perot type resonances that have high quality factors of many thousands, limited only by the CROW length. Furthermore we demonstrate that the proposed CROW design is surprisingly robust to disorder. By varying the geometric parameters one can not only reduce the losses into dissipative or radiative channels but also control the outcoupling of energy to the waveguide. The ability to minimise loss in plasmonic CROWs while maintaining dispersion provides an effective cavity design for chip-integrated laser devices and applications in linear and non-linear nano-photonics.}, }
@article {pmid26631484, year = {2016}, author = {Stocker, M and Munteanu, A and Stöwe, M and Schwab, C and Palme, R and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Loner or socializer? Ravens' adrenocortical response to individual separation depends on social integration.}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {78}, number = {}, pages = {194-199}, pmid = {26631484}, issn = {1095-6867}, support = {P 26806/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; W 1234/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Corticosterone/*metabolism ; Crows/metabolism/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Psychological Distance ; *Social Isolation ; Stress, Psychological/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Non-breeding common ravens (Corvus corax) live in complex social groups with a high degree of fission-fusion dynamics. They form valuable relationships and alliances with some conspecifics, while taking coordinated action against others. In ravens, affiliates reconcile their conflicts, console each other after conflicts with a third party, and provide each other with social support - all behaviors that presumably reduce corticosterone levels and alleviate stress. However, how well an individual is socially integrated in a (sub)group might vary substantially. This raises the question whether the social integration of a raven affects its stress responses to fission-fusion dynamics. The present study aims to investigate this effect experimentally by separating single ravens (n=16) individually from their group for four days and subsequently reintroducing them. To determine stress response patterns in the separated individuals we measured the amounts of immunoreactive corticosterone metabolites (CM) in droppings. We compared two enzyme immunoassays, which we validated by conducting an ACTH challenge, and finally decided to apply an 11-oxoetiocholanolone enzyme immunoassay. Additionally, we determined levels of social integration using focal observations. Our findings suggest that a strong social integration is related to low CM levels when the individuals are within the group and high levels during separations, implying that separation leads to stress in these birds. In contrast, poorly socially integrated ravens seem to exhibit the opposite pattern, indicating that to them group living is more stressful than being temporarily separated. We, therefore, conclude that the birds' adrenocortical activity is modulated by their social integration.}, }
@article {pmid26620957, year = {2016}, author = {Stevens, JR and Kennedy, BA and Morales, D and Burks, M}, title = {The domain specificity of intertemporal choice in pinyon jays.}, journal = {Psychonomic bulletin &amp; review}, volume = {23}, number = {3}, pages = {915-921}, pmid = {26620957}, issn = {1531-5320}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Choice Behavior ; Conditioning, Operant ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Food ; Food Storage ; Male ; Passeriformes ; *Self-Control ; }, abstract = {When choosing between a piece of cake now versus a slimmer waistline in the future, many of us have difficulty with self-control. Food-caching species, however, regularly hide food for later recovery, sometimes waiting months before retrieving their caches. It remains unclear whether these long-term choices generalize outside of the caching domain. We hypothesized that the ability to save for the future is a general tendency that cuts across different situations. To test this hypothesis, we measured and experimentally manipulated caching to evaluate its relationship with operant measures of self-control in pinyon jays (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus). We found no correlation between caching and self-control at the individual level, and experimentally increasing caching did not influence self-control. The self-control required for caching food, therefore, does not carry over to other foraging tasks, suggesting that it is domain specific in pinyon jays.}, }
@article {pmid26615214, year = {2016}, author = {Guillot, G and Jónsson, H and Hinge, A and Manchih, N and Orlando, L}, title = {Accurate continuous geographic assignment from low- to high-density SNP data.}, journal = {Bioinformatics (Oxford, England)}, volume = {32}, number = {7}, pages = {1106-1108}, doi = {10.1093/bioinformatics/btv703}, pmid = {26615214}, issn = {1367-4811}, mesh = {*Data Interpretation, Statistical ; *Genotype ; *High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; Humans ; Models, Theoretical ; Monte Carlo Method ; *Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; }, abstract = {MOTIVATION: Large-scale genotype datasets can help track the dispersal patterns of epidemiological outbreaks and predict the geographic origins of individuals. Such genetically-based geographic assignments also show a range of possible applications in forensics for profiling both victims and criminals, and in wildlife management, where poaching hotspot areas can be located. They, however, require fast and accurate statistical methods to handle the growing amount of genetic information made available from genotype arrays and next-generation sequencing technologies.<br><br>RESULTS: We introduce a novel statistical method for geopositioning individuals of unknown origin from genotypes. Our method is based on a geostatistical model trained with a dataset of georeferenced genotypes. Statistical inference under this model can be implemented within the theoretical framework of Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation, which represents one of the major recent breakthroughs in statistics, as it does not require Monte Carlo simulations. We compare the performance of our method and an alternative method for geospatial inference, SPA in a simulation framework. We highlight the accuracy and limits of continuous spatial assignment methods at various scales by analyzing genotype datasets from a diversity of species, including Florida Scrub-jay birds Aphelocoma coerulescens, Arabidopsis thaliana and humans, representing 41-197,146 SNPs. Our method appears to be best suited for the analysis of medium-sized datasets (a few tens of thousands of loci), such as reduced-representation sequencing data that become increasingly available in ecology.<br><br>http://www2.imm.dtu.dk/&#x223c;gigu/Spasiba/<br><br>CONTACT: gilles.b.guillot@gmail.com<br><br>SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.}, }
@article {pmid26604725, year = {2015}, author = {Phetcharat, L and Wongsuphasawat, K and Winther, K}, title = {The effectiveness of a standardized rose hip powder, containing seeds and shells of Rosa canina, on cell longevity, skin wrinkles, moisture, and elasticity.}, journal = {Clinical interventions in aging}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {1849-1856}, pmid = {26604725}, issn = {1178-1998}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Cellular Senescence/drug effects ; Double-Blind Method ; Elasticity/drug effects ; *Face ; Female ; Hemoglobins/metabolism ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Plant Components, Aerial ; *Rosa ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Water ; Xanthophylls/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of a rose hip powder (Hyben Vital(®)) made from seeds and shells on cell senescence, skin wrinkling, and aging.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 34 healthy subjects, aged 35-65 years, with wrinkles on the face (crow's-feet) were subjected to a randomized and double-blinded clinical study of the effects of the rose hip powder, as compared to astaxanthin, a well-known remedy against wrinkles. During the 8-week study, half of the participants ingested the standardized rose hip product, while the other half ingested astaxanthin. Objective measurements of facial wrinkles, skin moisture, and elasticity were made by using Visioscan, Corneometer, and Cutometer at the beginning of the study, after 4 weeks, and after 8 weeks. Evaluation of participant satisfaction of both supplements was assessed using questionnaires. In addition, the effect of the rose hip preparation on cell longevity was measured in terms of leakage of hemoglobin through red cell membranes (hemolytic index) in blood samples kept in a blood bank for 5 weeks. Significance of all values was attained with P&#x2264;0.05.<br><br>RESULTS: In the double-blinded study, the rose hip group showed statistically significant improvements in crow's-feet wrinkles (P<0.05), skin moisture (P<0.05), and elasticity (P<0.05) after 8 weeks of treatment. A similar improvement was observed for astaxanthin, with P-values 0.05, 0.001, and 0.05. Likewise, both groups expressed equal satisfaction with the results obtained in their self-assessment. The rose hip powder further resulted in increased cell longevity of erythrocyte cells during storage for 5 weeks in a blood bank.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Results suggest that intake of the standardized rose hip powder (Hyben Vital(&#xae;)) improves aging-induced skin conditions. The apparent stabilizing effects of the rose hip product on cell membranes of stored erythrocyte cells observed in this study may contribute to improve the cell longevity and obstructing skin aging.}, }
@article {pmid26601258, year = {2015}, author = {Greeney, HF and Meneses, MR and Hamilton, CE and Lichter-Marck, E and Mannan, RW and Snyder, N and Snyder, H and Wethington, SM and Dyer, LA}, title = {Trait-mediated trophic cascade creates enemy-free space for nesting hummingbirds.}, journal = {Science advances}, volume = {1}, number = {8}, pages = {e1500310}, pmid = {26601258}, issn = {2375-2548}, abstract = {The indirect effects of predators on nonadjacent trophic levels, mediated through traits of intervening species, are collectively known as trait-mediated trophic cascades. Although birds are important predators in terrestrial ecosystems, clear examples of trait-mediated indirect effects involving bird predators have almost never been documented. Such indirect effects are important for structuring ecological communities and are likely to be negatively impacted by habitat fragmentation, climate change, and other factors that reduce abundance of top predators. We demonstrate that hummingbirds in Arizona realize increased breeding success when nesting in association with hawks. An enemy-free nesting space is created when jays, an important source of mortality for hummingbird nests, alter their foraging behavior in the presence of their hawk predators.}, }
@article {pmid26598734, year = {2016}, author = {Dicke, U and Roth, G}, title = {Neuronal factors determining high intelligence.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {371}, number = {1685}, pages = {20150180}, pmid = {26598734}, issn = {1471-2970}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Central Nervous System/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Humans ; Intelligence/*genetics/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Many attempts have been made to correlate degrees of both animal and human intelligence with brain properties. With respect to mammals, a much-discussed trait concerns absolute and relative brain size, either uncorrected or corrected for body size. However, the correlation of both with degrees of intelligence yields large inconsistencies, because although they are regarded as the most intelligent mammals, monkeys and apes, including humans, have neither the absolutely nor the relatively largest brains. The best fit between brain traits and degrees of intelligence among mammals is reached by a combination of the number of cortical neurons, neuron packing density, interneuronal distance and axonal conduction velocity--factors that determine general information processing capacity (IPC), as reflected by general intelligence. The highest IPC is found in humans, followed by the great apes, Old World and New World monkeys. The IPC of cetaceans and elephants is much lower because of a thin cortex, low neuron packing density and low axonal conduction velocity. By contrast, corvid and psittacid birds have very small and densely packed pallial neurons and relatively many neurons, which, despite very small brain volumes, might explain their high intelligence. The evolution of a syntactical and grammatical language in humans most probably has served as an additional intelligence amplifier, which may have happened in songbirds and psittacids in a convergent manner.}, }
@article {pmid26598669, year = {2015}, author = {Veit, L and Pidpruzhnykova, G and Nieder, A}, title = {Associative learning rapidly establishes neuronal representations of upcoming behavioral choices in crows.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {112}, number = {49}, pages = {15208-15213}, pmid = {26598669}, issn = {1091-6490}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Crows/*physiology ; *Learning ; Neurons/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The ability to form associations between behaviorally relevant sensory stimuli is fundamental for goal-directed behaviors. We investigated neuronal activity in the telencephalic area nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL) while two crows (Corvus corone) performed a delayed association task. Whereas some paired associates were familiar to the crows, novel associations had to be learned and mapped to the same target stimuli within a single session. We found neurons that prospectively encoded the chosen test item during the delay for both familiar and newly learned associations. These neurons increased their selectivity during learning in parallel with the crows' increased behavioral performance. Thus, sustained activity in the NCL actively processes information for the upcoming behavioral choice. These data provide new insights into memory representations of behaviorally meaningful stimuli in birds, and how such representations are formed during learning. The findings suggest that the NCL plays a role in learning arbitrary associations, a cornerstone of corvids' remarkable behavioral flexibility and adaptability.}, }
@article {pmid26594629, year = {2015}, author = {Simard, I and Luck, D and Mottron, L and Zeffiro, TA and Soulières, I}, title = {Autistic fluid intelligence: Increased reliance on visual functional connectivity with diminished modulation of coupling by task difficulty.}, journal = {NeuroImage. Clinical}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {467-478}, pmid = {26594629}, issn = {2213-1582}, mesh = {Adult ; Autistic Disorder/*physiopathology ; Brain/*physiopathology ; Brain Mapping ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Visual Perception/physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Different test types lead to different intelligence estimates in autism, as illustrated by the fact that autistic individuals obtain higher scores on the Raven's Progressive Matrices (RSPM) test than they do on the Wechsler IQ, in contrast to relatively similar performance on both tests in non-autistic individuals. However, the cerebral processes underlying these differences are not well understood. This study investigated whether activity in the fluid "reasoning" network, which includes frontal, parietal, temporal and occipital regions, is differently modulated by task complexity in autistic and non-autistic individuals during the RSPM. In this purpose, we used fMRI to study autistic and non-autistic participants solving the 60 RSPM problems focussing on regions and networks involved in reasoning complexity. As complexity increased, activity in the left superior occipital gyrus and the left middle occipital gyrus increased for autistic participants, whereas non-autistic participants showed increased activity in the left middle frontal gyrus and bilateral precuneus. Using psychophysiological interaction analyses (PPI), we then verified in which regions did functional connectivity increase as a function of reasoning complexity. PPI analyses revealed greater connectivity in autistic, compared to non-autistic participants, between the left inferior occipital gyrus and areas in the left superior frontal gyrus, right superior parietal lobe, right middle occipital gyrus and right inferior temporal gyrus. We also observed generally less modulation of the reasoning network as complexity increased in autistic participants. These results suggest that autistic individuals, when confronted with increasing task complexity, rely mainly on visuospatial processes when solving more complex matrices. In addition to the now well-established enhanced activity observed in visual areas in a range of tasks, these results suggest that the enhanced reliance on visual perception has a central role in autistic cognition.}, }
@article {pmid26590982, year = {2016}, author = {Brugués, A and Bromuri, S and Barry, M and Del Toro, &#xd3;J and Mazurkiewicz, MR and Kardas, P and Pegueroles, J and Schumacher, M}, title = {Processing Diabetes Mellitus Composite Events in MAGPIE.}, journal = {Journal of medical systems}, volume = {40}, number = {2}, pages = {44}, pmid = {26590982}, issn = {1573-689X}, mesh = {Chronic Disease ; Diabetes Mellitus/*therapy ; *Expert Systems ; *Health Information Exchange ; Humans ; Internet ; *Mobile Applications ; Patient Care Team/*organization &amp; administration ; Smartphone ; Telemetry ; }, abstract = {The focus of this research is in the definition of programmable expert Personal Health Systems (PHS) to monitor patients affected by chronic diseases using agent oriented programming and mobile computing to represent the interactions happening amongst the components of the system. The paper also discusses issues of knowledge representation within the medical domain when dealing with temporal patterns concerning the physiological values of the patient. In the presented agent based PHS the doctors can personalize for each patient monitoring rules that can be defined in a graphical way. Furthermore, to achieve better scalability, the computations for monitoring the patients are distributed among their devices rather than being performed in a centralized server. The system is evaluated using data of 21 diabetic patients to detect temporal patterns according to a set of monitoring rules defined. The system's scalability is evaluated by comparing it with a centralized approach. The evaluation concerning the detection of temporal patterns highlights the system's ability to monitor chronic patients affected by diabetes. Regarding the scalability, the results show the fact that an approach exploiting the use of mobile computing is more scalable than a centralized approach. Therefore, more likely to satisfy the needs of next generation PHSs. PHSs are becoming an adopted technology to deal with the surge of patients affected by chronic illnesses. This paper discusses architectural choices to make an agent based PHS more scalable by using a distributed mobile computing approach. It also discusses how to model the medical knowledge in the PHS in such a way that it is modifiable at run time. The evaluation highlights the necessity of distributing the reasoning to the mobile part of the system and that modifiable rules are able to deal with the change in lifestyle of the patients affected by chronic illnesses.}, }
@article {pmid26582537, year = {2015}, author = {Klump, BC and Sugasawa, S and St Clair, JJ and Rutz, C}, title = {Hook tool manufacture in New Caledonian crows: behavioural variation and the influence of raw materials.}, journal = {BMC biology}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {97}, pmid = {26582537}, issn = {1741-7007}, support = {BB/G023913/1//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Crows/*physiology ; New Caledonia ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: New Caledonian crows use a range of foraging tools, and are the only non-human species known to craft hooks. Based on a small number of observations, their manufacture of hooked stick tools has previously been described as a complex, multi-stage process. Tool behaviour is shaped by genetic predispositions, individual and social learning, and/or ecological influences, but disentangling the relative contributions of these factors remains a major research challenge. The properties of raw materials are an obvious, but largely overlooked, source of variation in tool-manufacture behaviour. We conducted experiments with wild-caught New Caledonian crows, to assess variation in their hooked stick tool making, and to investigate how raw-material properties affect the manufacture process.<br><br>RESULTS: In Experiment 1, we showed that New Caledonian crows' manufacture of hooked stick tools can be much more variable than previously thought (85 tools by 18 subjects), and can involve two newly-discovered behaviours: 'pulling' for detaching stems and bending of the tool shaft. Crows' tool manufactures varied significantly: in the number of different action types employed; in the time spent processing the hook and bending the tool shaft; and in the structure of processing sequences. In Experiment 2, we examined the interaction of crows with raw materials of different properties, using a novel paradigm that enabled us to determine subjects' rank-ordered preferences (42 tools by 7 subjects). Plant properties influenced: the order in which crows selected stems; whether a hooked tool was manufactured; the time required to release a basic tool; and, possibly, the release technique, the number of behavioural actions, and aspects of processing behaviour. Results from Experiment 2 suggested that at least part of the natural behavioural variation observed in Experiment 1 is due to the effect of raw-material properties.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our discovery of novel manufacture behaviours indicates a plausible scenario for the evolutionary origins, and gradual refinement, of New Caledonian crows' hooked stick tool making. Furthermore, our experimental demonstration of a link between raw-material properties and aspects of tool manufacture provides an alternative hypothesis for explaining regional differences in tool behaviours observed in New Caledonian crows, and some primate species.}, }
@article {pmid26581321, year = {2016}, author = {Tornick, JK and Rushia, SN and Gibson, BM}, title = {Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana) are sensitive to distance, but not lighting when caching in the presence of a conspecific.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {123}, number = {}, pages = {125-133}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2015.10.023}, pmid = {26581321}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Distance Perception/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Female ; Food Preferences ; Lighting ; Male ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {We examined the caching behavior of the Clark's nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana), a relatively asocial corvid bird, during social and non-social conditions with conspecifics. Past work by Dally et al., (2004, 2005a) has found that the related but more social scrub jay (Aphelocoma californica) caches food in locations that are far away or that are more dimly illuminated when in the presence of an observer. Here, we used procedures comparable to those of Dally's group to examine if the less social nutcracker is also sensitive to these same factors when caching in the presence of a conspecific. We found that nutcrackers cached nuts farther away, but showed no preference for caching in a dimly compared to a brightly illuminated area when in the presence of a conspecific observer. When comparing the measures of cache protection used in the past work with scrub jays the results are consistent with the social organization of these birds; that is, the less social nutcracker engaged in fewer cache protection behaviors than the more social scrub jays, However, we explore other possible explanations for our findings given the wider body of literature on corvid cache protection suggesting that nutcrackers and scrub jays may be more comparable.}, }
@article {pmid26580879, year = {2015}, author = {Saybel, A and Artemenko, A and Nikitin, S and Kurenkov, A}, title = {A Prospective, Neurophysiologic Comparative Study to Assess the Efficacy and Duration of Effect of IncobotulinumtoxinA and AbobotulinumtoxinA in the Treatment of Crow's Feet.}, journal = {Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD}, volume = {14}, number = {11}, pages = {1291-1296}, pmid = {26580879}, issn = {1545-9616}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Electromyography ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Prospective Studies ; Single-Blind Method ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {This randomized, rater-blind, split-face study compared the safety and efficacy of incobotulinumtoxinA and abobotulinumtoxinA for the treatment of crow's feet. Nine units of incobotulinumtoxinA were administered to the lateral periorbital region of one side of the face and 27 units of abobotulinumtoxinA to the other in healthy subjects (aged 35-55 years) with moderate-to-severe crow's feet at rest (2-3 points on the 5-point Merz Aesthetics Scale [MAS]). Investigators assessed efficacy using the MAS, while subjects assessed using a 9-point global assessment scale. Secondary objectives included electromyography to assess muscle activity before injection and at 2 weeks, 4 months, and 6 months afterwards. Twenty women were enrolled and 18 completed the study. At rest and maximum smile, at each time point, the mean wrinkle scores were significantly lower (P ≤ 0.05) than baseline for both treatments. No differences were noted between treatments. Responder (≥ 1-point improvement from baseline) rates for both products were 100% and 83% at 2 weeks and 4 months post-treatment, respectively. At 6 months post-treatment, responder rates were 67% and 61% for incobotulinumtoxinA and abobotulinumtoxinA, respectively. For both, the maximum changes in electromyography parameters were observed 2 weeks post-treatment. A response was maintained for 6 months (P ≤ 0.05 vs baseline). Both treatments were well tolerated; only mild adverse events were reported. In conclusion, for treatment of crow's feet, incobotulinumtoxinA and abobotulinumtoxinA (1:3 dose) demonstrated comparable efficacy in terms of magnitude and longevity of effect. Both products demonstrated a high responder rate, with the response being maintained for 6 months in the majority.}, }
@article {pmid26579030, year = {2015}, author = {Zmigrod, S and Zmigrod, L and Hommel, B}, title = {Zooming into creativity: individual differences in attentional global-local biases are linked to creative thinking.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {1647}, pmid = {26579030}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {While recent studies have investigated how processes underlying human creativity are affected by particular visual-attentional states, we tested the impact of more stable attention-related preferences. These were assessed by means of Navon's global-local task, in which participants respond to the global or local features of large letters constructed from smaller letters. Three standard measures were derived from this task: the sizes of the global precedence effect, the global interference effect (i.e., the impact of incongruent letters at the global level on local processing), and the local interference effect (i.e., the impact of incongruent letters at the local level on global processing). These measures were correlated with performance in a convergent-thinking creativity task (the Remote Associates Task), a divergent-thinking creativity task (the Alternate Uses Task), and a measure of fluid intelligence (Raven's matrices). Flexibility in divergent thinking was predicted by the local interference effect while convergent thinking was predicted by intelligence only. We conclude that a stronger attentional bias to visual information about the "bigger picture" promotes cognitive flexibility in searching for multiple solutions.}, }
@article {pmid26578991, year = {2015}, author = {Baldo, JV and Paulraj, SR and Curran, BC and Dronkers, NF}, title = {Impaired reasoning and problem-solving in individuals with language impairment due to aphasia or language delay.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {1523}, pmid = {26578991}, issn = {1664-1078}, support = {P01 NS040813/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DC000216/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {The precise nature of the relationship between language and thought is an intriguing and challenging area of inquiry for scientists across many disciplines. In the realm of neuropsychology, research has investigated the inter-dependence of language and thought by testing individuals with compromised language abilities and observing whether performance in other cognitive domains is diminished. One group of such individuals is patients with aphasia who have an impairment in speech and language arising from a brain injury, such as a stroke. Our previous research has shown that the degree of language impairment in these individuals is strongly associated with the degree of impairment on complex reasoning tasks, such as the Wisconsin Card Sorting Task (WCST) and Raven's Matrices. In the current study, we present new data from a large group of individuals with aphasia that show a dissociation in performance between putatively non-verbal tasks on the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) that require differing degrees of reasoning (Picture Completion vs. Picture Arrangement tasks). We also present an update and replication of our previous findings with the WCST showing that individuals with the most profound core language deficits (i.e., impaired comprehension and disordered language output) are particularly impaired on problem-solving tasks. In the second part of the paper, we present findings from a neurologically intact individual known as "Chelsea" who was not exposed to language due to an unaddressed hearing loss that was present since birth. At the age of 32, she was fitted with hearing aids and exposed to spoken and signed language for the first time, but she was only able to acquire a limited language capacity. Chelsea was tested on a series of standardized neuropsychological measures, including reasoning and problem-solving tasks. She was able to perform well on a number of visuospatial tasks but was disproportionately impaired on tasks that required reasoning, such as Raven's Matrices and the WAIS Picture Arrangement task. Together, these findings suggest that language supports complex reasoning, possibly due to the facilitative role of verbal working memory and inner speech in higher mental processes.}, }
@article {pmid26569300, year = {2015}, author = {Shin, S and Son, D and Kim, M and Lee, S and Roh, KB and Ryu, D and Lee, J and Jung, E and Park, D}, title = {Ameliorating Effect of Akebia quinata Fruit Extracts on Skin Aging Induced by Advanced Glycation End Products.}, journal = {Nutrients}, volume = {7}, number = {11}, pages = {9337-9352}, pmid = {26569300}, issn = {2072-6643}, mesh = {Adult ; Antioxidants/pharmacology ; Cell Line ; Female ; Fibrillin-1 ; Fibrillins ; Fibroblasts/drug effects/metabolism ; Fruit/*chemistry ; Glycation End Products, Advanced/*metabolism ; Humans ; Lysine/analogs &amp; derivatives/metabolism ; Magnoliopsida/*chemistry ; Microfilament Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Middle Aged ; Oxidative Stress/drug effects ; Plant Extracts/*pharmacology ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; Skin/drug effects ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {The accumulation of free radicals and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in the skin plays a very important role in skin aging. Both are known to interact with each other. Therefore, natural compounds or extracts that possess both antioxidant and antiglycation activities might have great antiageing potential. Akebia quinata fruit extract (AQFE) has been used to treat urinary tract inflammatory disease in traditional Korean and Chinese medicines. In the present study, AQFE was demonstrated to possess antioxidant and antiglycation activity. AQFE protects human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) from oxidative stress and inhibits cellular senescence induced by oxidative stress. We also found that AQFE inhibits glycation reaction between BSA and glucose. The antiglycation activity of AQFE was dose-dependent. In addition, the antiglycation activity of AQFE was confirmed in a human skin explant model. AQFE reduced CML expression and stimulated fibrillin-1 expression in comparison to the methyglyoxal treatment. In addition, the possibility of the extract as an anti-skin aging agent has also been clinically validated. Our analysis of the crow's feet wrinkle showed that there was a decrease in the depth of deep furrows in RI treated with AQFE cream over an eight-week period. The overall results suggest that AQFE may work as an anti-skin aging agent by preventing oxidative stress and other complications associated with AGEs formation.}, }
@article {pmid26560406, year = {2017}, author = {Clerici, F and Ghiretti, R and Di Pucchio, A and Pomati, S and Cucumo, V and Marcone, A and Vanacore, N and Mariani, C and Cappa, SF}, title = {Construct validity of the Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test in older adults with memory complaints.}, journal = {Journal of neuropsychology}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, pages = {238-251}, doi = {10.1111/jnp.12087}, pmid = {26560406}, issn = {1748-6653}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Analysis of Variance ; Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnosis ; *Cues ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory Disorders/*diagnosis/*physiopathology ; *Memory, Episodic ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Reproducibility of Results ; Retrospective Studies ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test (FCSRT) is the memory test recommended by the International Working Group on Alzheimer's disease (AD) for the detection of amnestic syndrome of the medial temporal type in prodromal AD. Assessing the construct validity and internal consistency of the Italian version of the FCSRT is thus crucial.<br><br>METHODS: The FCSRT was administered to 338 community-dwelling participants with memory complaints (57% females, age 74.5&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;7.7&#xa0;years), including 34 with AD, 203 with Mild Cognitive Impairment, and 101 with Subjective Memory Impairment. Internal Consistency was estimated using Cronbach's alpha coefficient. To assess convergent validity, five FCSRT scores (Immediate Free Recall, Immediate Total Recall, Delayed Free Recall, Delayed Total Recall, and Index of Sensitivity of Cueing) were correlated with three well-validated memory tests: Story Recall, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning test, and Rey Complex Figure&#xa0;(RCF) recall (partial correlation analysis). To assess divergent validity, a principal component analysis (an exploratory factor analysis) was performed including, in addition to the above-mentioned memory tasks, the following tests: Word Fluencies, RCF copy, Clock Drawing Test, Trail Making Test, Frontal Assessment Battery, Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices, and Stroop Colour-Word Test.<br><br>RESULTS: Cronbach's alpha coefficients for immediate recalls (IFR and ITR) and delayed recalls (DFR and DTR) were, respectively, .84 and .81. All FCSRT scores were highly correlated with those of the three well-validated memory tests. The factor analysis showed that the FCSRT does not load on the factors saturated by non-memory tests.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicate that the FCSRT has a good internal consistency and has an excellent construct validity as an episodic memory measure.}, }
@article {pmid26554042, year = {2015}, author = {Roth, G}, title = {Convergent evolution of complex brains and high intelligence.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {370}, number = {1684}, pages = {}, pmid = {26554042}, issn = {1471-2970}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Intelligence/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Within the animal kingdom, complex brains and high intelligence have evolved several to many times independently, e.g. among ecdysozoans in some groups of insects (e.g. blattoid, dipteran, hymenopteran taxa), among lophotrochozoans in octopodid molluscs, among vertebrates in teleosts (e.g. cichlids), corvid and psittacid birds, and cetaceans, elephants and primates. High levels of intelligence are invariantly bound to multimodal centres such as the mushroom bodies in insects, the vertical lobe in octopodids, the pallium in birds and the cerebral cortex in primates, all of which contain highly ordered associative neuronal networks. The driving forces for high intelligence may vary among the mentioned taxa, e.g. needs for spatial learning and foraging strategies in insects and cephalopods, for social learning in cichlids, instrumental learning and spatial orientation in birds and social as well as instrumental learning in primates.}, }
@article {pmid26545581, year = {2015}, author = {Pruett, CL and Wan, L and Li, T and Spern, C and Lance, SL and Glenn, T and Faircloth, B and Winker, K}, title = {Development and characterization of microsatellite loci for common raven (Corvus corax) and cross species amplification in other Corvidae.}, journal = {BMC research notes}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {655}, pmid = {26545581}, issn = {1756-0500}, mesh = {Alaska ; Alleles ; Animals ; Crows/classification/*genetics ; Gene Frequency ; Genetic Loci/*genetics ; Genotype ; Geography ; Linkage Disequilibrium ; Microsatellite Repeats/*genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Polymorphism, Genetic ; Songbirds/classification/*genetics ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: A priority for conservation is the identification of endemic populations. We developed microsatellite markers for common raven (Corvus corax), a bird species with a Holarctic distribution, to identify and assess endemic populations in Alaska.<br><br>RESULTS: From a total of 50 microsatellite loci, we isolated and characterized 15 loci. Eight of these loci were polymorphic and readily scoreable. Eighteen to 20 common ravens from Fairbanks, Alaska were genotyped showing the following variability: 3-8 alleles per locus, 0.25-0.80 observed heterozygosity (Ho), and 0.30-0.80 expected heterozygosity (He). All loci were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and linkage equilibrium and many loci amplified and were polymorphic in related taxa.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: These loci will be used to identify endemic populations of common raven and assess their genetic diversity and connectivity.}, }
@article {pmid26539071, year = {2015}, author = {Lee, S and Zipunnikov, V and Reich, DS and Pham, DL}, title = {Statistical image analysis of longitudinal RAVENS images.}, journal = {Frontiers in neuroscience}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {368}, pmid = {26539071}, issn = {1662-4548}, support = {R01 HL123407/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH095836/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 NS070906/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; K01 AG051348/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 NS060910/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Regional analysis of volumes examined in normalized space (RAVENS) are transformation images used in the study of brain morphometry. In this paper, RAVENS images are analyzed using a longitudinal variant of voxel-based morphometry (VBM) and longitudinal functional principal component analysis (LFPCA) for high-dimensional images. We demonstrate that the latter overcomes the limitations of standard longitudinal VBM analyses, which does not separate registration errors from other longitudinal changes and baseline patterns. This is especially important in contexts where longitudinal changes are only a small fraction of the overall observed variability, which is typical in normal aging and many chronic diseases. Our simulation study shows that LFPCA effectively separates registration error from baseline and longitudinal signals of interest by decomposing RAVENS images measured at multiple visits into three components: a subject-specific imaging random intercept that quantifies the cross-sectional variability, a subject-specific imaging slope that quantifies the irreversible changes over multiple visits, and a subject-visit specific imaging deviation. We describe strategies to identify baseline/longitudinal variation and registration errors combined with covariates of interest. Our analysis suggests that specific regional brain atrophy and ventricular enlargement are associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) disease progression.}, }
@article {pmid26529116, year = {2015}, author = {St Clair, JJH and Burns, ZT and Bettaney, EM and Morrissey, MB and Otis, B and Ryder, TB and Fleischer, RC and James, R and Rutz, C}, title = {Experimental resource pulses influence social-network dynamics and the potential for information flow in tool-using crows.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {7197}, pmid = {26529116}, issn = {2041-1723}, support = {BB/G023913/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/G023913/2//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Computer Simulation ; *Crows ; Environment ; *Information Dissemination ; *Social Behavior ; *Social Learning ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Social-network dynamics have profound consequences for biological processes such as information flow, but are notoriously difficult to measure in the wild. We used novel transceiver technology to chart association patterns across 19 days in a wild population of the New Caledonian crow--a tool-using species that may socially learn, and culturally accumulate, tool-related information. To examine the causes and consequences of changing network topology, we manipulated the environmental availability of the crows' preferred tool-extracted prey, and simulated, in silico, the diffusion of information across field-recorded time-ordered networks. Here we show that network structure responds quickly to environmental change and that novel information can potentially spread rapidly within multi-family communities, especially when tool-use opportunities are plentiful. At the same time, we report surprisingly limited social contact between neighbouring crow communities. Such scale dependence in information-flow dynamics is likely to influence the evolution and maintenance of material cultures.}, }
@article {pmid26522551, year = {2015}, author = {Snow, NJ and Rainer, WG}, title = {Jay Lloyd Ankeney, June 7, 1921-December 24, 2014.}, journal = {The Annals of thoracic surgery}, volume = {100}, number = {5}, pages = {1963-1965}, doi = {10.1016/j.athoracsur.2015.08.058}, pmid = {26522551}, issn = {1552-6259}, mesh = {Coronary Artery Bypass, Off-Pump/history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Thoracic Surgery/*history ; }, abstract = {Jay Ankeney, the 16th President of The Society of Thoracic Surgeons, was an early pioneer in adult and pediatric cardiac operations, a prescient advocate of off-bypass coronary revascularization, and a strong champion of cardiothoracic recertification. He was among the first to endorse the need to provide practicing cardiothoracic surgeons the means for self-assessment and improvement. He led the development of Coordinating Committee for Continuing Education in Thoracic Surgery and inaugurated the self-education/self assessment syllabus for this purpose. Under his leadership he persuaded the vast majority of cardiothoracic surgeons to embrace recertification and by this means provide reassurance and accountability to their patients.}, }
@article {pmid26521671, year = {2015}, author = {Kline, W}, title = {Communicating a New Consciousness: Countercultural Print and the Home Birth Movement in the 1970s.}, journal = {Bulletin of the history of medicine}, volume = {89}, number = {3}, pages = {527-556}, doi = {10.1353/bhm.2015.0065}, pmid = {26521671}, issn = {0007-5140}, mesh = {*Communication ; Culture ; Female ; History, 20th Century ; Home Childbirth/*history ; Humans ; Midwifery/*history ; Pregnancy ; *Reference Books, Medical ; United Kingdom ; United States ; }, abstract = {This essay analyzes the production of three influential home birth texts of the 1970s written by self-proclaimed lay midwives that helped to fuel and sustain a movement in alternative birth practices. As part of a countercultural lifestyle print culture, early "how-to" books (Raven Lang's The Birth Book, Ina May Gaskin's Spiritual Midwifery) provided readers with vivid images and accounts in stark contrast to those of the sterile hospital delivery room. By the end of the decade, Rahima Baldwin's more mainstream guidebook, Special Delivery, indicated an interest in translating home birth to a wider audience who did not necessarily identify as "countercultural." Lay midwives who were authors of radical print texts in the 1970s played an important role in reshaping expectations about the birth experience, suggesting a need to rethink how we define the counterculture and its legacies.}, }
@article {pmid26520177, year = {2015}, author = {Thomas-Bachli, AL and Pearl, DL and Berke, O and Parmley, EJ and Barker, IK}, title = {A comparison of West Nile virus surveillance using survival analyses of dead corvid and mosquito pool data in Ontario, 2002-2008.}, journal = {Preventive veterinary medicine}, volume = {122}, number = {3}, pages = {363-370}, doi = {10.1016/j.prevetmed.2015.10.007}, pmid = {26520177}, issn = {1873-1716}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*virology ; Culicidae/*virology ; Epidemiological Monitoring ; Ontario/epidemiology ; Seasons ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/*virology ; West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to improve understanding of the relative performance of the use of dead wild corvids and mosquito pools infected with West Nile virus (WNv) in surveillance for WNv activity in the environment. To this end, all records on dead corvid submissions and mosquito pools tested in Public Health Units (PHUs) in Ontario, from 2002 to 2008, were explored. Survival analyses were employed using the first-WNv-positive cases detected each year for each PHU, and censored observations for PHUs which did not detect WNv during a given year using each data source (504 observations). Survival analyses were employed to compare the number of surveillance weeks before WNv was detected by either data source, and the influence of temporal, geographic and sociodemographic factors on these data. The outcome measurement for the final accelerated failure time (AFT) model with log-logistic distribution was a time ratio, which represents the ratio of the survival time of one group relative to another. Dead corvid surveillance was faster at detecting WNv than testing mosquito pools during the early years of WNv incursion into Ontario, while mosquito testing found WNv more quickly later in the study period. There was also regional variation in time-to-detection of WNv, by modality, as well as for various types of urban/rural settings. In comparison to mosquito surveillance, West Nile virus was detected more quickly using dead corvid surveillance in sparsely populated regions. These areas may benefit from collection of dead corvids to optimize detection and direct early surveillance efforts. When we compared the time-to-detection of WNv using dead corvids and the onset of human cases in PHUs, we found that dead corvid surveillance was predictive of West Nile activity in health units that reported human cases during the first 3 years of the incursion into Ontario.}, }
@article {pmid26518144, year = {2015}, author = {Dridi, M and Van Den Berg, T and Lecollinet, S and Lambrecht, B}, title = {Evaluation of the pathogenicity of West Nile virus (WNV) lineage 2 strains in a SPF chicken model of infection: NS3-249Pro mutation is neither sufficient nor necessary for conferring virulence.}, journal = {Veterinary research}, volume = {46}, number = {}, pages = {130}, pmid = {26518144}, issn = {1297-9716}, mesh = {Animals ; *Chickens ; Genotype ; Mutation ; Poultry Diseases/*virology ; Specific Pathogen-Free Organisms ; Viremia/veterinary/virology ; Virulence ; West Nile Fever/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*genetics/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {Lineage 2 West Nile virus (WNV) strains were reported for the first time in Europe in 2004. Despite an almost silent circulation around their entry point in Hungary, an upsurge of pathogenicity occurred in 2010 as 262 people suffered from neuroinvasive disease in Greece. This increase in virulence was imputed to the emergence of a His249Pro mutation in the viral NS3 helicase, as previously evidenced in American crows experimentally infected with the prototype lineage 1 North-American WNV strain. However, since 2003, WNV strains bearing the NS3Pro genotype are regularly isolated in Western-Mediterranean countries without being correlated to any virulent outbreak in vertebrates. We thus sought to evaluate the weight of the NS3249Pro genotype as a virulence marker of WNV in an in vivo avian model of WNV infection. We therefore characterized three genetically-related Eastern-Europe lineage 2 WNV strains in day-old specific pathogen-free (SPF) chickens: Hun2004 and Aus2008 which are both characterized by a NS3249His genotype, and Gr2011 which is characterized by a NS3249Pro genotype. Unlike Hun2004 and Aus2008, Gr2011 was weakly virulent in SPF chicks as Gr2011-induced viremia was lower and waned quicklier than in the Hun2004 and Aus2008 groups. Overall, this study showed that the presence of a proline residue at position 249 of the viral NS3 helicase is neither sufficient nor necessary to confer pathogenicity to any given lineage 2 WNV strain in birds.}, }
@article {pmid26507378, year = {2015}, author = {Tamborini, M}, title = {[The Roots of Idiographic Paleontology: Karl Alfred von Zittel's Methodology and Conception of the Fossil Record].}, journal = {NTM}, volume = {23}, number = {3-4}, pages = {117-142}, pmid = {26507378}, issn = {1420-9144}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; *Concept Formation ; Extinction, Biological ; *Fossils ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; *Knowledge ; Microscopy ; Natural History/*history ; Paleontology/*history ; *Research Design ; Science/history ; }, abstract = {This paper examines Karl Alfred von Zittel’s practice in order to uncover the roots of so-called idiographic paleontology.The great American paleontologist Stephen Jay Gould (1941–2002) defined the discipline of idiographic paleontology as illustration and description of the morphological features of extinct species. However, this approach does not investigate macroevolutionary patterns and processes. On the contrary, the paleobiological revolution of the 1970s implemented an epistemic methodology that illustrates macrovelutionary patterns and laws by combining idiographic data with a nomothetic form of explanation. This article elucidates the features of the idiographic data as well as the acquired knowledge coupled with this approach. First of all, Heinrich G. Bronn’s (1800–1862) statistical method is analyzed. Zittel’s practice arose as a reaction against the approximate conclusions reached by Bronn’s quantitative approach. Second, the details of Zittel’s methodology are described in order to bring out its peculiarities.The microscope played a pivotal role in creating and forming Zittel’s morphological data. This analysis sheds new light on the reasons behind the so-called ideographic paleontology, thus revising Gould’s historical reconstruction, as well as on the notion of paleontological data. However, even though Zittel aimed at reaching precise and stable conclusions,his data cannot be used for elucidating evolutionary mechanisms: they are scientific in a purely descriptive sense, but completely useless for biological investigations. Finally, this paper examines how Zittel’s methodology affects the contemporary paleobiological enterprise and thereby reflects upon the notion of natural history.}, }
@article {pmid26491395, year = {2015}, author = {Haemig, PD and Sjöstedt de Luna, S and Blank, H and Lundqvist, H}, title = {Ecology and phylogeny of birds foraging at outdoor restaurants in Sweden.}, journal = {Biodiversity data journal}, volume = {}, number = {3}, pages = {e6360}, pmid = {26491395}, issn = {1314-2828}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Birds frequently visit the outdoor serving areas of restaurants to feed on scraps of food and leftovers. Although this feeding association between humans and birds is widespread and could have significant effects, both positive and negative, for all taxa involved, the authors know of no published studies that have investigated restaurant bird communities. To lay the foundation for future research, the authors conducted a basic study of birds at 80 outdoor restaurants in Sweden, identifying which species and taxonomic clades of birds visited the restaurants and comparing restaurant birds in urban and rural environments.<br><br>NEW INFORMATION: Thirteen species of birds visited the outdoor restaurants. Eight of these species were predominant, i.e. accounting for 51% or more of bird presence (sum of minutes of all individual birds) at one or more restaurants. Every restaurant studied had a predominant species, but species often differed from each other in frequency of predominance in different landscapes. No endangered species were seen visiting restaurants. However, three farmland bird species (House Sparrow Passer domesticus, White Wagtail Motacilla alba, Eurasian Tree Sparrow Passer montanus), whose numbers are reported to be declining in the countryside, were predominant at the majority of restaurants in rural areas, suggesting that rural restaurants might be able to contribute to the conservation of these species. The thirteen species of restaurant-visiting birds belonged to five monophyletic clades. Ninety percent of all restaurants had, as their predominant species, birds from either Clade A (Passeridae, Motacillidae, Fringillidae) or Clade C (Corvidae). Statistical testing revealed that Clade A and Clade C were distributed differently in environments along the urban-rural gradient. At all spatial scales measured, birds of Clade C were predominant at the majority of restaurants in urban areas, while birds of Clade A were the predominant clade at the majority of restaurants in rural areas. The authors use this evidence, and observations of birds foraging in association with other primates, to hypothesize that the outdoor serving areas of modern restaurants may be helping to preserve and nurture ancient human-bird symbioses that have been part of human ecology since antiquity.}, }
@article {pmid26488587, year = {2016}, author = {Hayes, TR and Petrov, AA}, title = {Pupil Diameter Tracks the Exploration-Exploitation Trade-off during Analogical Reasoning and Explains Individual Differences in Fluid Intelligence.}, journal = {Journal of cognitive neuroscience}, volume = {28}, number = {2}, pages = {308-318}, doi = {10.1162/jocn_a_00895}, pmid = {26488587}, issn = {1530-8898}, support = {R21 EY022745/EY/NEI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Exploratory Behavior/*physiology ; Eye Movement Measurements ; Eye Movements/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; *Individuality ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Organ Size ; Pupil/*physiology ; Reaction Time ; Speech ; *Thinking/physiology ; Time ; }, abstract = {The ability to adaptively shift between exploration and exploitation control states is critical for optimizing behavioral performance. Converging evidence from primate electrophysiology and computational neural modeling has suggested that this ability may be mediated by the broad norepinephrine projections emanating from the locus coeruleus (LC) [Aston-Jones, G., &amp; Cohen, J. D. An integrative theory of locus coeruleus-norepinephrine function: Adaptive gain and optimal performance. Annual Review of Neuroscience, 28, 403-450, 2005]. There is also evidence that pupil diameter covaries systematically with LC activity. Although imperfect and indirect, this link makes pupillometry a useful tool for studying the locus coeruleus norepinephrine system in humans and in high-level tasks. Here, we present a novel paradigm that examines how the pupillary response during exploration and exploitation covaries with individual differences in fluid intelligence during analogical reasoning on Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices. Pupillometry was used as a noninvasive proxy for LC activity, and concurrent think-aloud verbal protocols were used to identify exploratory and exploitative solution periods. This novel combination of pupillometry and verbal protocols from 40 participants revealed a decrease in pupil diameter during exploitation and an increase during exploration. The temporal dynamics of the pupillary response was characterized by a steep increase during the transition to exploratory periods, sustained dilation for many seconds afterward, and followed by gradual return to baseline. Moreover, the individual differences in the relative magnitude of pupillary dilation accounted for 16% of the variance in Advanced Progressive Matrices scores. Assuming that pupil diameter is a valid index of LC activity, these results establish promising preliminary connections between the literature on locus coeruleus norepinephrine-mediated cognitive control and the literature on analogical reasoning and fluid intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid26483829, year = {2015}, author = {Satoh, M and Yuba, T and Tabei, K and Okubo, Y and Kida, H and Sakuma, H and Tomimoto, H}, title = {Music Therapy Using Singing Training Improves Psychomotor Speed in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease: A Neuropsychological and fMRI Study.}, journal = {Dementia and geriatric cognitive disorders extra}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {296-308}, pmid = {26483829}, issn = {1664-5464}, abstract = {BACKGROUND/AIMS: To investigate the effect of singing training on the cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients.<br><br>METHODS: Ten AD patients (mean age 78.1 years) participated in music therapy using singing training once a week for 6 months (music therapy group). Each session was performed with professional musicians using karaoke and a unique voice training method (the YUBA Method). Before and after the intervention period, each patient was assessed by neuropsychological batteries, and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was performed while the patients sang familiar songs with a karaoke device. As the control group, another 10 AD patients were recruited (mean age 77.0 years), and neuropsychological assessments were performed twice with an interval of 6 months.<br><br>RESULTS: In the music therapy group, the time for completion of the Japanese Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices was significantly reduced (p = 0.026), and the results obtained from interviewing the patients' caregivers revealed a significant decrease in the Neuropsychiatric Inventory score (p = 0.042) and a prolongation of the patients' sleep time (p = 0.039). The fMRI study revealed increased activity in the right angular gyrus and the left lingual gyrus in the before-minus-after subtraction analysis of the music therapy intervention.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Music therapy intervention using singing training may be useful for dementia patients by improving the neural efficacy of cognitive processing.}, }
@article {pmid26480857, year = {2015}, author = {Šovčíková, E and Wimmerová, S and Strémy, M and Kotianová, J and Loffredo, CA and Murínová, &#x13d;P and Chovancová, J and Čonka, K and Lancz, K and Trnovec, T}, title = {Simple reaction time in 8-9-year old children environmentally exposed to PCBs.}, journal = {Neurotoxicology}, volume = {51}, number = {}, pages = {138-144}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuro.2015.10.005}, pmid = {26480857}, issn = {1872-9711}, mesh = {Child ; Environmental Exposure/*adverse effects ; Environmental Pollutants/blood/*toxicity ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Polychlorinated Biphenyls/blood/*toxicity ; Reaction Time/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {Simple reaction time (SRT) has been studied in children exposed to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), with variable results. In the current work we examined SRT in 146 boys and 161 girls, aged 8.53 ± 0.65 years (mean ± SD), exposed to PCBs in the environment of eastern Slovakia. We divided the children into tertiles with regard to increasing PCB serum concentration. The mean ± SEM serum concentration of the sum of 15 PCB congeners was 191.15 ± 5.39, 419.23 ± 8.47, and 1315.12 ± 92.57 ng/g lipids in children of the first, second, and third tertiles, respectively. We created probability distribution plots for each child from their multiple trials of the SRT testing. We fitted response time distributions from all valid trials with the ex-Gaussian function, a convolution of a normal and an additional exponential function, providing estimates of three independent parameters μ, σ, and τ. μ is the mean of the normal component, σ is the standard deviation of the normal component, and τ is the mean of the exponential component. Group response time distributions were calculated using the Vincent averaging technique. A Q-Q plot comparing probability distribution of the first vs. third tertile indicated that deviation of the quantiles of the latter tertile from those of the former begins at the 40th percentile and does not show a positive acceleration. This was confirmed in comparison of the ex-Gaussian parameters of these two tertiles adjusted for sex, age, Raven IQ of the child, mother's and father's education, behavior at home and school, and BMI: the results showed that the parameters μ and τ significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased with PCB exposure. Similar increases of the ex-Gaussian parameter τ in children suffering from ADHD have been previously reported and interpreted as intermittent attentional lapses, but were not seen in our cohort. Our study has confirmed that environmental exposure of children to PCBs is associated with prolongation of simple reaction time reflecting impairment of cognitive functions.}, }
@article {pmid26480740, year = {2015}, author = {Kuwabara, S}, title = {[Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome].}, journal = {Nihon rinsho. Japanese journal of clinical medicine}, volume = {73 Suppl 7}, number = {}, pages = {446-451}, pmid = {26480740}, issn = {0047-1852}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use ; Female ; Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation ; Humans ; Japan/epidemiology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/diagnosis/epidemiology/*therapy ; Thalidomide/therapeutic use ; Transplantation, Autologous ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/immunology ; }, }
@article {pmid26478777, year = {2015}, author = {Jelbert, SA and Taylor, AH and Gray, RD}, title = {Investigating animal cognition with the Aesop's Fable paradigm: Current understanding and future directions.}, journal = {Communicative &amp; integrative biology}, volume = {8}, number = {4}, pages = {e1035846}, pmid = {26478777}, issn = {1942-0889}, abstract = {The Aesop's Fable paradigm - in which subjects drop stones into tubes of water to obtain floating out-of-reach rewards - has been used to assess causal understanding in rooks, crows, jays and human children. To date, the performance of corvids suggests that they can recognize the functional properties of a variety of objects including size, weight and solidity, and they seem to be more capable of learning from causal information than arbitrary information. However, 2 alternative explanations for their performance have yet to be ruled out. The perceptual-motor feedback hypothesis suggests that subjects may attend solely to the movement of the reward, repeating actions which bring the reward closer, while the object-bias hypothesis suggests that subjects could pass certain tasks by preferring to handle objects that resemble natural stones. Here we review our current understanding of performance on the Aesop's Fable tasks, and suggest that studies controlling for feedback and object preferences will help us determine exactly what animals understand about the cause and effect of water displacement.}, }
@article {pmid26462404, year = {2015}, author = {Graff, G}, title = {Redesigning Racial Caste in America via Mass Incarceration.}, journal = {The Journal of psychohistory}, volume = {43}, number = {2}, pages = {120-133}, pmid = {26462404}, issn = {0145-3378}, mesh = {Black or African American ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Prisoners/history ; Prisons/*history ; Racism/*history ; *Residence Characteristics ; Social Class ; Socioeconomic Factors ; United States ; }, abstract = {This article argues that the era of mass incarceration can be understood as a new tactic in the history of American racism. Slavery was ended by the Civil War, but after Reconstruction, the gains of the former slaves were eroded by Jim Crow (a rigid pattern of racial segregation), lynching, disenfranchisement, sharecropping, tenantry, unequal educational resources, terrorism, and convict leasing. The Civil Rights Movement struck down legal barriers, but we have chosen to deal with the problems of poverty and race not so differently than we have in the past. The modern version of convict leasing, is mass incarceration. This article documents the dramatic change in American drug policy beginning with Reagan's October, 1982 announcement of the War on Drugs, the subsequent 274 percent growth in the prison and jail populations, and the devastating and disproportionate effect on inner city African Americans. Just as the Jim Crow laws were a reaction to the freeing of the slaves after the Civil War, mass incarceration can be understood as a reaction to the Civil Rights Movement.}, }
@article {pmid26460512, year = {2015}, author = {Griesser, M and Halvarsson, P and Drobniak, SM and Vilà, C}, title = {Fine-scale kin recognition in the absence of social familiarity in the Siberian jay, a monogamous bird species.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {24}, number = {22}, pages = {5726-5738}, doi = {10.1111/mec.13420}, pmid = {26460512}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {*Aggression ; Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Female ; Male ; Microsatellite Repeats ; Models, Biological ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Kin recognition is a critical element to kin cooperation, and in vertebrates, it is primarily based on associative learning. Recognition of socially unfamiliar kin occurs rarely, and it is reported only in vertebrate species where promiscuity prevents recognition of first-order relatives. However, it is unknown whether the recognition of socially unfamiliar kin can evolve in monogamous species. Here, we investigate whether genetic relatedness modulates aggression among group members in Siberian jays (Perisoreus infaustus). This bird species is genetically and socially monogamous and lives in groups that are formed through the retention of offspring beyond independence, and the immigration of socially unfamiliar nonbreeders. Observations on feeders showed that genetic relatedness modulated aggression of breeders towards immigrants in a graded manner, in that they chased most intensely the immigrant group members that were genetically the least related. However, cross-fostering experiments showed that breeders were equally tolerant towards their own and cross-fostered young swapped as nestlings. Thus, breeders seem to use different mechanisms to recognize socially unfamiliar individuals and own offspring. As Siberian jays show a high degree of nepotism during foraging and predator encounters, inclusive fitness benefits may play a role for the evolution of fine-scale kin recognition. More generally, our results suggest that fine-graded kin recognition can evolve independently of social familiarity, highlighting the evolutionary importance of kin recognition for social species.}, }
@article {pmid26457722, year = {2016}, author = {Liu, F and Bao, X and Fan, Y and Li, J}, title = {Sequencing and analysis of the complete mitochondrial genome of Rufous-tailed Shrike, Lanius isabellinus (Passeriformes, Laniidae).}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part A, DNA mapping, sequencing, and analysis}, volume = {27}, number = {4}, pages = {2625-2626}, doi = {10.3109/19401736.2015.1041125}, pmid = {26457722}, issn = {2470-1408}, mesh = {Animals ; Codon, Initiator/genetics ; Codon, Terminator/genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; Genome, Mitochondrial/*genetics ; Passeriformes/classification/*genetics ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; RNA, Transfer/genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {The complete mitochondrial genome of the Rufous-tailed Shrike (Lanius isabellinus) was 16 819 bp in length. The GenBank accession number is KP995437 and the contents of A, T, C, and G are 31.1% (5234 bp), 25.5% (4293 bp), 28.7% (4826 bp), and 14.7% (2466 bp), respectively. Gene organization and length are similar to other species of birds. It comprises 13 protein-coding genes, 2 rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes and a control region. All protein-coding genes use the typical initiation codon ATG, except for COX1 that uses GTG. All the complete stop codons were co-incident with the Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) and the Grey-backed Shrike (Lanius tephronotus), except for ND2 that was terminated with TAG. In addition, the phylogenetic relationships of Passeriformes based on complete mitochondrial genome showed that genetic distance of Laniidae and Corvidae was closer than other species.}, }
@article {pmid26457491, year = {2016}, author = {Liu, F and Bao, X and Fan, Y and Li, J and Yao, X}, title = {Sequencing and analysis of the complete mitochondrial genome of Brown Shrike, Lanius cristatus (Passeriformes, Laniidae).}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part A, DNA mapping, sequencing, and analysis}, volume = {27}, number = {5}, pages = {3544-3546}, doi = {10.3109/19401736.2015.1074210}, pmid = {26457491}, issn = {2470-1408}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Composition ; Genes, rRNA ; Genome Size ; *Genome, Mitochondrial ; Mitochondria/*genetics ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Transfer/genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA/*methods ; }, abstract = {The complete mitochondrial genome of the Brown Shrike (Lanius cristatus) was 16 821 bp in length. The accession number was KT004451 and the contents of A, T, C, and G were 31.10%(5237 bp), 25.60%(4309 bp), 28.60%(4814 bp), and 14.60%(2461 bp), respectively. Gene organization and length was similar to other species of birds. It comprises of 13 protein-coding genes, 2 rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes and 1 control region. All protein-coding genes use the typical initiation codon ATG, except for COX1 which was initiated with GTG. All the complete stop codon was coincident with the Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) and the Grey-backed Shrike (Lanius tephronotus), except for ND2, which was terminated with TAG. In addition, the phylogenetic relationships of Passeriformes based on complete mitochondrial genomes showed that the genetic distance of Laniidae and Corvidae was closer than others.}, }
@article {pmid26452559, year = {2015}, author = {Sherwin, WB}, title = {Genes are information, so information theory is coming to the aid of evolutionary biology.}, journal = {Molecular ecology resources}, volume = {15}, number = {6}, pages = {1259-1261}, doi = {10.1111/1755-0998.12458}, pmid = {26452559}, issn = {1755-0998}, mesh = {Animals ; *Evolution, Molecular ; *Genes ; *Genetic Speciation ; *Information Theory ; Mice ; }, abstract = {Speciation is central to evolutionary biology, and to elucidate it, we need to catch the early genetic changes that set nascent taxa on their path to species status (Via 2009). That challenge is difficult, of course, for two chief reasons: (i) serendipity is required to catch speciation in the act; and (ii) after a short time span with lingering gene flow, differentiation may be low and/or embodied only in rare alleles that are difficult to sample. In this issue of Molecular Ecology Resources, Smouse et al. (2015) have noted that optimal assessment of differentiation within and between nascent species should be robust to these challenges, and they identified a measure based on Shannon's information theory that has many advantages for this and numerous other tasks. The Shannon measure exhibits complete additivity of information at different levels of subdivision. Of all the family of diversity measures ('0' or allele counts, '1' or Shannon, '2' or heterozygosity, F(ST) and related metrics) Shannon's measure comes closest to weighting alleles by their frequencies. For the Shannon measure, rare alleles that represent early signals of nascent speciation are neither down-weighted to the point of irrelevance, as for level 2 measures, nor up-weighted to overpowering importance, as for level 0 measures (Chao et al. 2010,)2015. Shannon measures have a long history in population genetics, dating back to Shannon's PhD thesis in 1940 (Crow 2001), but have received only sporadic attention, until a resurgence of interest in the last ten years, as reviewed briefly by Smouse et al. (2015).}, }
@article {pmid26448705, year = {2015}, author = {Li, S and Zonstein, S}, title = {Eight new species of the spider genera Raveniola and Sinopesa from China and Vietnam (Araneae, Nemesiidae).}, journal = {ZooKeys}, volume = {}, number = {519}, pages = {1-32}, pmid = {26448705}, issn = {1313-2989}, abstract = {Eight new species, seven Raveniola Zonstein, 1987 and one Sinopesa Raven &amp; Schwendinger, 1995 from China and Vietnam are described: Raveniola alpina sp. n., Raveniola bellula sp. n., Raveniola chayi sp. n., Raveniola gracilis sp. n., Raveniola rugosa sp. n., Raveniola spirula sp. n. and Raveniola yajiangensis sp. n. and Sinopesa ninhbinhensis sp. n. Keys to all East-Asian congeners, diagnoses of the new species, and new distribution data of Raveniola montana Zonstein &amp; Marusik, 2012, with a first record for Sichuan, China, are provided.}, }
@article {pmid26442633, year = {2015}, author = {Massen, JJ and Ritter, C and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Tolerance and reward equity predict cooperation in ravens (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {15021}, pmid = {26442633}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Cooperative Behavior ; Crows ; Female ; *Interpersonal Relations ; Male ; Problem Solving ; *Reward ; }, abstract = {Cooperative decision rules have so far been shown experimentally mainly in mammal species that have variable and complex social networks. However, these traits should not necessarily be restricted to mammals. Therefore, we tested cooperative problem solving in ravens. We showed that, without training, nine ravens spontaneously cooperated in a loose-string task. Corroborating findings in several species, ravens' cooperative success increased with increasing inter-individual tolerance levels. Importantly, we found this in both a forced dyadic setting, and in a group setting where individuals had an open choice to cooperate with whomever. The ravens, moreover, also paid attention to the resulting reward distribution and ceased cooperation when being cheated upon. Nevertheless, the ravens did not seem to pay attention to the behavior of their partners while cooperating, and future research should reveal whether this is task specific or a general pattern. Given their natural propensity to cooperate and the results we present here, we consider ravens as an interesting model species to study the evolution of, and the mechanisms underlying cooperation.}, }
@article {pmid26441119, year = {2015}, author = {Wu, WTL}, title = {Microbotox of the Lower Face and Neck: Evolution of a Personal Technique and Its Clinical Effects.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {136}, number = {5 Suppl}, pages = {92S-100S}, doi = {10.1097/PRS.0000000000001827}, pmid = {26441119}, issn = {1529-4242}, mesh = {Acetylcholine Release Inhibitors/administration &amp; dosage ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Cosmetic Techniques ; Face/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Facial Muscles ; Humans ; Neck/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {Microbotox is the injection of multiple microdroplets of diluted onabotulinumtoxinA into the dermis or the interface between the dermis and the superficial layer of facial muscles. The intention is to decrease sweat and sebaceous gland activity to improve skin texture and sheen and to target the superficial layer of muscles that find attachment to the undersurface of the dermis causing visible rhytides. For treatment of the lower face and neck, hundreds of microdroplets of diluted Botox are injected into the dermis or immediate subdermal plane to improve skin texture, smoothen horizontal creases, and decrease vertical banding of the neck, as well as to achieve better apposition of the platysma to the jawline and neck, improving contouring of the cervicomental angle. The Microbotox solution is mixed in the syringe by adding a small volume of lidocaine to the calculated dose of onabotulinumtoxinA drawn from a standard bottle of Botox prepared with 2.5 mL saline. Each 1 mL syringe of Microbotox solution contains 20-28 units of onabotulinumtoxinA per mL of solution and is used to deliver 100-120 injections. The lower face and neck will usually require 1 mL per side. The injections are delivered intradermally using a 30- or 32-G needle raising a tiny blanched weal at each point. The author has over 1867 documented cases of Microbotox in various parts of the face (forehead, glabellar, crow's-feet, infraorbital, and cheeks) and neck, the majority of these patients being treated in forehead or the lower face and neck as described in this article.}, }
@article {pmid26441115, year = {2015}, author = {Monheit, G}, title = {Neurotoxins: Current Concepts in Cosmetic Use on the Face and Neck--Upper Face (Glabella, Forehead, and Crow's Feet).}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {136}, number = {5 Suppl}, pages = {72S-75S}, doi = {10.1097/PRS.0000000000001771}, pmid = {26441115}, issn = {1529-4242}, mesh = {*Cosmetic Techniques ; Forehead ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Neck ; Neurotoxins/*administration &amp; dosage ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {There are 3 Food and Drug Administration-approved botulinum toxin formulations now being successfully used for treatment in the upper face. The most common areas for botulinum toxin treatment are the upper face, including the glabella, forehead, brows, and lateral canthal lines or crow's feet. The frozen look is no more desired in patients. Thus, physicians are more commonly individualizing dosage based on the patient's variation in anatomy, muscle mass, asymmetry, and, most importantly, desired outcome.}, }
@article {pmid26431173, year = {2015}, author = {Dunn, JC and Hamer, KC and Benton, TG}, title = {Anthropogenically-Mediated Density Dependence in a Declining Farmland Bird.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {10}, number = {10}, pages = {e0139492}, pmid = {26431173}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {BBSSK200512132//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Agriculture/*methods ; Animal Distribution ; Animals ; Crows/physiology ; *Ecosystem ; Edible Grain ; *Endangered Species ; England ; Food Supply ; *Human Activities ; Insecta ; Nesting Behavior ; Organic Agriculture ; Pesticides ; Population Dynamics ; Predatory Behavior ; Reproduction ; *Songbirds ; Territoriality ; }, abstract = {Land management intrinsically influences the distribution of animals and can consequently alter the potential for density-dependent processes to act within populations. For declining species, high densities of breeding territories are typically considered to represent productive populations. However, as density-dependent effects of food limitation or predator pressure may occur (especially when species are dependent upon separate nesting and foraging habitats), high territory density may limit per-capita productivity. Here, we use a declining but widespread European farmland bird, the yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella L., as a model system to test whether higher territory densities result in lower fledging success, parental provisioning rates or nestling growth rates compared to lower densities. Organic landscapes held higher territory densities, but nests on organic farms fledged fewer nestlings, translating to a 5 times higher rate of population shrinkage on organic farms compared to conventional. In addition, when parental provisioning behaviour was not restricted by predation risk (i.e., at times of low corvid activity), nestling provisioning rates were higher at lower territory densities, resulting in a much greater increase in nestling mass in low density areas, suggesting that food limitation occurred at high densities. These findings in turn suggest an ecological trap, whereby preferred nesting habitat does not provide sufficient food for rearing nestlings at high population density, creating a population sink. Habitat management for farmland birds should focus not simply on creating a high nesting density, but also on ensuring heterogeneous habitats to provide food resources in close proximity to nesting birds, even if this occurs through potentially restricting overall nest density but increasing population-level breeding success.}, }
@article {pmid26428897, year = {2015}, author = {Di Francesco, A and Donati, M and Laroucau, K and Balboni, A and Galuppi, R and Merialdi, G and Salvatore, D and Renzi, M}, title = {Chlamydiae in corvids.}, journal = {The Veterinary record}, volume = {177}, number = {18}, pages = {466}, doi = {10.1136/vr.103218}, pmid = {26428897}, issn = {2042-7670}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*microbiology ; Chlamydia/*isolation &amp; purification ; Chlamydia Infections/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; Crows/*microbiology ; Italy/epidemiology ; Molecular Sequence Data ; }, }
@article {pmid26424007, year = {2016}, author = {Sanz, MT and Campos, C and Milani, M and Foyaca, M and Lamy, A and Kurdian, K and Trullas, C}, title = {Biorevitalizing effect of a novel facial serum containing apple stem cell extract, pro-collagen lipopeptide, creatine, and urea on skin aging signs.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {24-30}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.12173}, pmid = {26424007}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Cells, Cultured ; Cellular Senescence/drug effects ; Cosmeceuticals/*pharmacology ; Creatine/pharmacology ; Elasticity/drug effects ; Eye ; Female ; Fibroblasts/drug effects ; Humans ; Lipopeptides/pharmacology ; *Malus ; Middle Aged ; Plant Extracts/*pharmacology ; Skin/diagnostic imaging/drug effects ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; *Stem Cells ; Ultrasonography ; Urea/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Epithelial regeneration in skin is achieved by the constant turnover and differentiation of keratinocytes. Epidermal and dermal stem cells compartments are fundamental for the continuous renewal of the skin. Adult stem cells are the unique source for skin tissue renewal. Plants have stem cells and plant derived stem cell extracts are now used in topical products for their potential anti-ageing and anti-wrinkle effects. A new dermocosmetic product containing apple stem cell extract, urea, creatine and palmitoyl tripeptide-38 (Ureadin Fusion Serum Lift Antiarrugas, ISDIN S.A), has been recently developed to target different aspects involved in skin aging.<br><br>STUDY AIM: To assess in vitro the effects of this new serum on the metabolic functions of human senescent fibroblasts and in vivo the anti-aging effects by clinical and instrumental evaluation.<br><br>METHODS: We evaluated the effects of the serum on the mitochondrial ROS (reactive oxygen species) production in human senescent cultured fibroblasts measured at 0.1% and 1% using the Mitoread AntiOx mtROS method. In addition we evaluated the anti-ageing in vivo effect of this new serum applied on the face twice daily for 28 consecutive days and assessed by clinical and instrumental evaluation in 32 women with sensitive skin bearing wrinkles on crow's feet.<br><br>RESULTS: The tested serum both at 0.1% and 1% induces a significant increase in 02 consumption, cellular ATP level and a reduction in extra-cellular lactate concentration. The product reduces also significantly the mitochondrial ROS production. The clinical study shows a relevant anti-wrinkle effect in 71% of the treated women with visible effects in 68% of the subjects as soon as 7 days of treatment. A significant increase in dermal density and skin elasticity was also observed.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The use of this novel anti-aging serum demonstrated a significant improvement of aging skin signs with first visible results achieved after one week of use. The product seemed to optimize the metabolic functions in human senescent cultured fibroblast restoring a more efficient cell metabolism therefore contributing to the anti-aging properties of the product.}, }
@article {pmid26414895, year = {2016}, author = {Uguccioni, G and Lavault, S and Chaumereuil, C and Golmard, JL and Gagnon, JF and Arnulf, I}, title = {Long-Term Cognitive Impairment in Kleine-Levin Syndrome.}, journal = {Sleep}, volume = {39}, number = {2}, pages = {429-438}, pmid = {26414895}, issn = {1550-9109}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention ; Case-Control Studies ; *Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/*complications/diagnosis/*psychology ; Disorders of Excessive Somnolence/complications ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Kleine-Levin Syndrome/*complications/*psychology ; Male ; Memory Disorders/complications/diagnosis/psychology ; Memory, Episodic ; Memory, Short-Term ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Reaction Time ; Time Factors ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {STUDY OBJECTIVES: In Kleine-Levin syndrome (KLS), episodes of hypersomnia, cognitive, and behavioral disturbances alternate with asymptomatic periods. Because 50% of patients report decreased academic performances, we evaluated their cognitive status during asymptomatic periods, determinants of deficits, and changes during follow-up.<br><br>METHODS: The cognitive assessment during asymptomatic periods in all consecutive patients with typical KLS and healthy controls included the non-verbal intelligence quotient (Raven Progressive Matrices), the Trail Making Test, the Stroop Color-Word Test, the Wechsler Memory Test, verbal fluencies, the Free and Cued Learning Memory Test, and the Rey-Osterreith Complex Figure. Cognitive status was reevaluated after 0.5 to 2 y in 44 patients.<br><br>RESULTS: At baseline, compared with the 42 controls, the 122 patients with KLS exhibited lower non-verbal intelligence quotient, speed of processing, attention, and reduced retrieval strategies in episodic memory. Higher episode frequency, shorter episode duration, shorter time since last episode, deeper sleep, and megaphagia during episodes predicted impaired memory. The visuoconstructional abilities and non-verbal memory were intact. After a mean follow-up of 1.7 &#xb1; 1.0 y, the episode frequency decreased from 4.6 &#xb1; 4.8 to 1.7 &#xb1; 1.9/y. The logical reasoning and attention improved, the processing speed remained low, and the retrieval strategies in verbal memory further worsened.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In this field study, one-third of patients with KLS have long-term cognitive deficits affecting retrieval and processing speed. Cognitive function should be systematically tested in patients with KLS, which appears important to help patients in their academic studies.}, }
@article {pmid26413890, year = {2015}, author = {Gonthier, C and Thomassin, N}, title = {Strategy use fully mediates the relationship between working memory capacity and performance on Raven's matrices.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. General}, volume = {144}, number = {5}, pages = {916-924}, doi = {10.1037/xge0000101}, pmid = {26413890}, issn = {1939-2222}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Working memory capacity consistently correlates with fluid intelligence. It has been suggested that this relationship is partly attributable to strategy use: Participants with high working memory capacity would use more effective strategies, in turn leading to higher performance on fluid intelligence tasks. However, this idea has never been directly investigated. In 2 experiments, we tested this hypothesis by directly manipulating strategy use in a combined experimental-correlational approach (Experiment 1; N = 250) and by measuring strategy use with a self-report questionnaire (Experiment 2; N = 93). Inducing all participants to use an effective strategy in Raven's matrices decreased the correlation between working memory capacity and performance; the strategy use measure fully mediated the relationship between working memory capacity and performance on the matrices task. These findings indicate that individual differences in strategic behavior drive the predictive utility of working memory. We interpret the results within a theoretical framework integrating the multiple mediators of the relationship between working memory capacity and high-level cognition.}, }
@article {pmid26408388, year = {2015}, author = {Forte, AJ and Andrew, TW and Colasante, C and Persing, JA}, title = {Perception of Age, Attractiveness, and Tiredness After Isolated and Combined Facial Subunit Aging.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {39}, number = {6}, pages = {856-869}, doi = {10.1007/s00266-015-0553-1}, pmid = {26408388}, issn = {1432-5241}, mesh = {Adult ; Aging/psychology ; *Attitude ; *Beauty ; Face/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Patients often seek help to redress aging that affects various regions of the face (subunits). The purpose of this study was to determine how aging of different facial subunits impacts perception of age, attractiveness, and tiredness.<br><br>METHOD: Frontal and lateral view facial photographs of a middle-aged woman were modified using imaging software to independently age different facial features. Sixty-six subjects were administered with a questionnaire, and presented with a baseline unmodified picture and others containing different individual or grouped aging of facial subunits. Test subjects were asked to estimate the age of the subject in the image and quantify (0-10 scale) how "tired" and "attractive" they appeared. Facial subunits were organized following rank assignment regarding impact on perception of age, attractiveness, and tiredness.<br><br>RESULTS: The correlation coefficient between age and attractiveness had a strong inverse relationship of approximately -0.95 in both lateral and frontal views. From most to least impact in age, the rank assignment for frontal view facial subunits was full facial aging, middle third, lower third, upper third, vertical lip rhytides, horizontal forehead rhytides, jowls, upper eyelid ptosis, loss of malar volume, lower lid fat herniation, deepening glabellar furrows, and deepening nasolabial folds. From most to least impact in age, the rank assignment for lateral view facial subunits was severe neck ptosis, jowls, moderate neck ptosis, vertical lip rhytides, crow's feet, lower lid fat herniation, loss of malar volume, and elongated earlobe.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study provides a preliminary template for further research to determine which anatomical subunit will have the most substantial effect on an aged appearance, as well as on the perception of tiredness and attractiveness.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.}, }
@article {pmid26407112, year = {2015}, author = {Okada, M and Okada, Y}, title = {Effects of methanolic extracts of edible plants on RAGE in high-glucose-induced human endothelial cells.}, journal = {Bio-medical materials and engineering}, volume = {25}, number = {3}, pages = {257-266}, doi = {10.3233/BME-151280}, pmid = {26407112}, issn = {1878-3619}, mesh = {Cells, Cultured ; DNA Damage/physiology ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Drug Interactions ; Endothelial Cells/cytology/drug effects/*physiology ; Free Radical Scavengers/administration &amp; dosage ; Glucose/*administration &amp; dosage ; Glycation End Products, Advanced/metabolism ; Humans ; Methanol/chemistry ; Phenols/*administration &amp; dosage/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification ; Plant Extracts/*administration &amp; dosage/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification ; Plants, Edible/*chemistry ; Reactive Oxygen Species ; Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Advanced glycation end products' (AGEs) engagement of a cell-surface receptor for AGEs (RAGE) has been causally implicated in the pathogenesis of vascular complications in diabetic patients. Methanolic extracts from edible plants (MEEP) are naturally occurring phenolic compounds. The phenolic compounds have been reported to possess potent radical-scavenging properties. We investigated whether MEEP could inhibit high glucose-induced RAGE production through interference with reactive oxygen species generation in endothelial cells (ECs). ECs were incubated with 4.5 g/l of glucose in culture medium treated with 21 MEEP. Determination of RAGE production in the culture supernatants was performed by colorimetric ELISA. DNA damage was determined by using the 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine ELISA kit. Because peroxynitrite radicals with stronger toxicity were produced by nitric oxide radical (NO), the NO scavenging activity of MEEP was assessed as nitrite generation. Peroxynitrite radical-dependent oxidation inhibition by MEEP was estimated by the Crow method. The results showed that four extracts reduced RAGE production. The extract from onion peel showed the highest RAGE production inhibition activity, followed by that of onion rhizome, cow pea and burdock. The results showed that RAGE production is correlated with the above-mentioned indicators. This study supports the utilization of four extracts for improved treatment of diabetic complications.}, }
@article {pmid26405563, year = {2015}, author = {Hu, D and Gong, Y and Hannaford, B and Seibel, EJ}, title = {Semi-autonomous Simulated Brain Tumor Ablation with RavenII Surgical Robot using Behavior Tree.}, journal = {IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation : ICRA : [proceedings]. IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation}, volume = {2015}, number = {}, pages = {3868-3875}, pmid = {26405563}, issn = {2152-4092}, support = {R01 EB016457/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Medical robots have been widely used to assist surgeons to carry out dexterous surgical tasks via various ways. Most of the tasks require surgeon's operation directly or indirectly. Certain level of autonomy in robotic surgery could not only free the surgeon from some tedious repetitive tasks, but also utilize the advantages of robot: high dexterity and accuracy. This paper presents a semi-autonomous neurosurgical procedure of brain tumor ablation using RAVEN Surgical Robot and stereo visual feedback. By integrating with the behavior tree framework, the whole surgical task is modeled flexibly and intelligently as nodes and leaves of a behavior tree. This paper provides three contributions mainly: (1) describing the brain tumor ablation as an ideal candidate for autonomous robotic surgery, (2) modeling and implementing the semi-autonomous surgical task using behavior tree framework, and (3) designing an experimental simulated ablation task for feasibility study and robot performance analysis.}, }
@article {pmid26400233, year = {2015}, author = {Amin, HU and Malik, AS and Kamel, N and Chooi, WT and Hussain, M}, title = {P300 correlates with learning &amp; memory abilities and fluid intelligence.}, journal = {Journal of neuroengineering and rehabilitation}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {87}, pmid = {26400233}, issn = {1743-0003}, mesh = {Adult ; Brain/physiology ; Electroencephalography ; Event-Related Potentials, P300/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; *Intelligence Tests ; Learning/*physiology ; Male ; Memory/*physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Educational psychology research has linked fluid intelligence with learning and memory abilities and neuroimaging studies have specifically associated fluid intelligence with event related potentials (ERPs). The objective of this study is to find the relationship of ERPs with learning and memory recall and predict the memory recall score using P300 (P3) component.<br><br>METHOD: A sample of thirty-four healthy subjects between twenty and thirty years of age was selected to perform three tasks: (1) Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM) test to assess fluid intelligence; (2) learning and memory task to assess learning ability and memory recall; and (3) the visual oddball task to assess brain-evoked potentials. These subjects were divided into High Ability (HA) and Low Ability (LA) groups based on their RAPM scores. A multiple regression analysis was used to predict the learning &amp; memory recall and fluid intelligence using P3 amplitude and latency.<br><br>RESULTS: Behavioral results demonstrated that the HA group learned and recalled 10.89&#xa0;% more information than did the LA group. ERP results clearly showed that the P3 amplitude of the HA group was relatively larger than that observed in the LA group for both the central and parietal regions of the cerebrum; particularly during the 300-400&#xa0;ms time window. In addition, a shorter latency for the P3 component was observed at Pz site for the HA group compared to the LA group. These findings agree with previous educational psychology and neuroimaging studies which reported an association between ERPs and fluid intelligence as well as learning performance.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These results also suggest that the P3 component is associated with individual differences in learning and memory recall and further indicate that P3 amplitude might be used as a supporting factor in standard psychometric tests to assess an individual's learning &amp; memory recall ability; particularly in educational institutions to aid in the predictability of academic skills.}, }
@article {pmid26396389, year = {2015}, author = {Sanyang, ML and Sapuan, SM}, title = {Development of expert system for biobased polymer material selection: food packaging application.}, journal = {Journal of food science and technology}, volume = {52}, number = {10}, pages = {6445-6454}, pmid = {26396389}, issn = {0022-1155}, abstract = {Biobased food packaging materials are gaining more attention owing to their intrinsic biodegradable nature and renewability. Selection of suitable biobased polymers for food packaging applications could be a tedious task with potential mistakes in choosing the best materials. In this paper, an expert system was developed using Exsys Corvid software to select suitable biobased polymer materials for packaging fruits, dry food and dairy products. If - Then rule based system was utilized to accomplish the material selection process whereas a score system was formulated to facilitate the ranking of selected materials. The expert system selected materials that satisfied all constraints and selection results were presented in suitability sequence depending on their scores. The expert system selected polylactic acid (PLA) as the most suitable material.}, }
@article {pmid26395158, year = {2015}, author = {Liu, Q and Zhu, X and Ziegler, A and Shi, J}, title = {The effects of inhibitory control training for preschoolers on reasoning ability and neural activity.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {14200}, pmid = {26395158}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Brain Waves/physiology ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*physiology ; Electroencephalography ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Learning ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Self-Control/*psychology ; Sex Factors ; Video Games/psychology ; }, abstract = {Inhibitory control (including response inhibition and interference control) develops rapidly during the preschool period and is important for early cognitive development. This study aimed to determine the training and transfer effects on response inhibition in young children. Children in the training group (N = 20; 12 boys, mean age 4.87 ± 0.26 years) played "Fruit Ninja" on a tablet computer for 15 min/day, 4 days/week, for 3 weeks. Children in the active control group (N = 20; 10 boys, mean age 4.88 ± 0.20 years) played a coloring game on a tablet computer for 10 min/day, 1-2 days/week, for 3 weeks. Several cognitive tasks (involving inhibitory control, working memory, and fluid intelligence) were used to evaluate the transfer effects, and electroencephalography (EEG) was performed during a go/no-go task. Progress on the trained game was significant, while performance on a reasoning task (Raven's Progressive Matrices) revealed a trend-level improvement from pre- to post-test. EEG indicated that the N2 effect of the go/no-go task was enhanced after training for girls. This study is the first to show that pure response inhibition training can potentially improve reasoning ability. Furthermore, gender differences in the training-induced changes in neural activity were found in preschoolers.}, }
@article {pmid26394718, year = {2015}, author = {Carmona, D and Fitzpatrick, CR and Johnson, MT}, title = {Fifty years of co-evolution and beyond: integrating co-evolution from molecules to species.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {24}, number = {21}, pages = {5315-5329}, doi = {10.1111/mec.13389}, pmid = {26394718}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Adaptation, Biological/genetics ; *Biological Evolution ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Genetic Fitness ; Genetics/history ; Genetics, Population ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; *Models, Biological ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {Fifty years after Ehrlich and Raven's seminal paper, the idea of co-evolution continues to grow as a key concept in our understanding of organic evolution. This concept has not only provided a compelling synthesis between evolutionary biology and community ecology, but has also inspired research that extends beyond its original scope. In this article, we identify unresolved questions about the co-evolutionary process and advocate for the integration of co-evolutionary research from molecular to interspecific interactions. We address two basic questions: (i) What is co-evolution and how common is it? (ii) What is the unit of co-evolution? Both questions aim to explore the heart of the co-evolutionary process. Despite the claim that co-evolution is ubiquitous, we argue that there is in fact little evidence to support the view that reciprocal natural selection and coadaptation are common in nature. We also challenge the traditional view that co-evolution only occurs between traits of interacting species. Co-evolution has the potential to explain evolutionary processes and patterns that result from intra- and intermolecular biochemical interactions within cells, intergenomic interactions (e.g. nuclear-cytoplasmic) within species, as well as intergenomic interactions mediated by phenotypic traits between species. Research that bridges across these levels of organization will help to advance our understanding of the importance of the co-evolutionary processes in shaping the diversity of life on Earth.}, }
@article {pmid26391430, year = {2016}, author = {McCormack, JE and Tsai, WL and Faircloth, BC}, title = {Sequence capture of ultraconserved elements from bird museum specimens.}, journal = {Molecular ecology resources}, volume = {16}, number = {5}, pages = {1189-1203}, doi = {10.1111/1755-0998.12466}, pmid = {26391430}, issn = {1755-0998}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*classification/*genetics ; DNA/chemistry/*genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Genotyping Techniques/*methods ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; Museums ; Phylogeography ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; *Preservation, Biological ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Specimen Handling/*methods ; }, abstract = {New DNA sequencing technologies are allowing researchers to explore the genomes of the millions of natural history specimens collected prior to the molecular era. Yet, we know little about how well specific next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques work with the degraded DNA typically extracted from museum specimens. Here, we use one type of NGS approach, sequence capture of ultraconserved elements (UCEs), to collect data from bird museum specimens as old as 120 years. We targeted 5060 UCE loci in 27 western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) representing three evolutionary lineages that could be species, and we collected an average of 3749 UCE loci containing 4460 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Despite older specimens producing fewer and shorter loci in general, we collected thousands of markers from even the oldest specimens. More sequencing reads per individual helped to boost the number of UCE loci we recovered from older specimens, but more sequencing was not as successful at increasing the length of loci. We detected contamination in some samples and determined that contamination was more prevalent in older samples that were subject to less sequencing. For the phylogeny generated from concatenated UCE loci, contamination led to incorrect placement of some individuals. In contrast, a species tree constructed from SNPs called within UCE loci correctly placed individuals into three monophyletic groups, perhaps because of the stricter analytical procedures used for SNP calling. This study and other recent studies on the genomics of museum specimens have profound implications for natural history collections, where millions of older specimens should now be considered genomic resources.}, }
@article {pmid26384775, year = {2015}, author = {Perreault, A and Habak, C and Lepore, F and Mottron, L and Bertone, A}, title = {Behavioral evidence for a functional link between low- and mid-level visual perception in the autism spectrum.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {77}, number = {}, pages = {380-386}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2015.09.022}, pmid = {26384775}, issn = {1873-3514}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Autistic Disorder/*physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Photic Stimulation ; Psychological Tests ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Most investigations of visuo-perceptual abilities in the Autism Spectrum (AS) are level-specific, using tasks that selectively solicit either lower- (i.e., spatial frequency sensitivity), mid- (i.e., pattern discrimination) or higher-level processes (i.e., face identification) along the visual hierarchy. Less is known about how alterations at one level of processing (i.e., low-level) interact with that of another (i.e., mid-level). The aim of this study was to assess whether manipulating the physical properties (luminance vs texture) of local contour elements of a mid-level, visual pattern interferes with the discrimination of that pattern in a differential manner for individuals with AS.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty-nine AS individuals and thirty control participants (range 14-27 years) were asked to discriminate between perfect circles and Radial Frequency Patterns (RFP) of two, three, five, and 10 radial frequencies (RF), or deformations along the pattern's contour. When RFP have few deformations (<five RF), a global, pattern analysis is needed for shape discrimination. Conversely, when RFP contain many deformations (&#x2265;10 RF), discrimination is dependent on the analysis of local deformations along the RFP contour. The effect of manipulating RF on RFP discrimination was assessed for RFP whose local contour elements were defined by either luminance or texture information, the latter previously found less efficiently processed in AS individuals.<br><br>RESULTS: Two separate mixed factorial ANOVAs [2 (Group)&#xd7;4 (RF)] were conducted on mean deformation thresholds for luminance- and texture-defined conditions. A significant Group&#xd7;RF interaction was found for the luminance-defined condition where thresholds were higher in the AS group for the two and three RF conditions; no between-group differences were found for the five and 10 RF conditions. A significant main effect of group was identified for the texture-defined condition, where mean thresholds were higher for the AS group across all RF conditions assessed (two, three, five and 10); a Group&#xd7;RF interaction effect was not found. Performance for each RFP condition was not affected across group by either chronological age or intelligence, as measured by either Weschler scales or Raven Progressive Matrices.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The ability of AS individuals to discriminate a circular pattern is differentially affected by the availability (number of deformations along the RFP contour) and type (luminance vs texture) of local, low-level elements defining its contour. Performance is unaffected in AS when RFP discrimination is dependent on the analysis of local deformations of luminance-defined contour elements, but decreased across all RF conditions when local contour elements are texture-defined. These results suggest that efficient pattern perception in AS is functionally related to the efficacy with which its local elements are processed, indicative of an early origin for altered mid-level, pattern perception in AS.}, }
@article {pmid26381633, year = {2015}, author = {Sebastian, ST and Sunitha, S}, title = {A cross-sectional study to assess the intelligence quotient (IQ) of school going children aged 10-12 years in villages of Mysore district, India with different fluoride levels.}, journal = {Journal of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry}, volume = {33}, number = {4}, pages = {307-311}, doi = {10.4103/0970-4388.165682}, pmid = {26381633}, issn = {1998-3905}, mesh = {Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Fluorosis, Dental/*epidemiology ; Humans ; India/epidemiology ; *Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Besides dental and skeletal fluorosis, excessive fluoride intake can also affect the central nervous system without first causing the physical deformities associated with skeletal fluorosis. With the existence of widespread endemic fluorosis in India, the possible adverse effect of elevated fluoride in drinking water on the Intelligence Quotient (IQ) level of children is a potentially serious public health problem.<br><br>AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the Intelligence Quotient (IQ) of school going children aged 10-12 years in villages of Mysore district with different fluoride levels.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 405 school children aged 10-12 years were selected from three villages in Mysore district with normal fluoride (1.20 mg F/l), low fluoride (0.40 mg F/l) and high fluoride (2.20 mg F/l) in their water supplies. A pre designed questionnaire was used to collect the required data for the survey which included socio demographic details, oral hygiene practices, diet history, body mass index and dental fluorosis. Intelligence Quotient was assessed using Raven's colored Progressive Matrices Test.<br><br>RESULTS: In bivariate analysis, significant relationships were found between water fluoride levels and Intelligence Quotient of school children (P < 0.05). In the high fluoride village, the proportion of children with IQ below 90, i.e. below average IQ was larger compared to normal and low fluoride village. Age, gender, parent education level and family income had no significant association with IQ.<br><br>CONCLUSION: School children residing in area with higher than normal water fluoride level demonstrated more impaired development of intelligence when compared to school children residing in areas with normal and low water fluoride levels. Thus, children's intelligence can be affected by high water fluoride levels.}, }
@article {pmid26380697, year = {2015}, author = {Strickland, D and Norris, DR}, title = {An example of phenotypic adherence to the island rule? - Anticosti gray jays are heavier but not structurally larger than mainland conspecifics.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {5}, number = {17}, pages = {3687-3694}, pmid = {26380697}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {The island rule refers to the tendency of small vertebrates to become larger when isolated on islands and the frequent dwarfing of large forms. It implies genetic control, and a necessary linkage, of size and body-mass differences between insular and mainland populations. To examine the island rule, we compared body size and mass of gray jays (Perisoreus canadensis) on Anticosti Island, Québec, located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, with three mainland populations (2 in Québec and 1 in Ontario). Although gray jays on Anticosti Island were ca 10% heavier, they were not structurally larger, than the three mainland populations. This suggests that Anticosti jays are not necessarily genetically distinct from mainland gray jays and that they may have achieved their greater body masses solely through packing more mass onto mainland-sized body frames. As such, they may be the first-known example of a proposed, purely phenotypic initial step in the adherence to the island rule by an insular population. Greater jay body mass is probably advantageous in Anticosti's high-density, intensely competitive social environment that may have resulted from the island's lack of mammalian nest predators.}, }
@article {pmid26379594, year = {2015}, author = {Smolen, T and Chuderski, A}, title = {The quadratic relationship between difficulty of intelligence test items and their correlations with working memory.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {1270}, pmid = {26379594}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Fluid intelligence (Gf) is a crucial cognitive ability that involves abstract reasoning in order to solve novel problems. Recent research demonstrated that Gf strongly depends on the individual effectiveness of working memory (WM). We investigated a popular claim that if the storage capacity underlay the WM-Gf correlation, then such a correlation should increase with an increasing number of items or rules (load) in a Gf-test. As often no such link is observed, on that basis the storage-capacity account is rejected, and alternative accounts of Gf (e.g., related to executive control or processing speed) are proposed. Using both analytical inference and numerical simulations, we demonstrated that the load-dependent change in correlation is primarily a function of the amount of floor/ceiling effect for particular items. Thus, the item-wise WM correlation of a Gf-test depends on its overall difficulty, and the difficulty distribution across its items. When the early test items yield huge ceiling, but the late items do not approach floor, that correlation will increase throughout the test. If the early items locate themselves between ceiling and floor, but the late items approach floor, the respective correlation will decrease. For a hallmark Gf-test, the Raven-test, whose items span from ceiling to floor, the quadratic relationship is expected, and it was shown empirically using a large sample and two types of WMC tasks. In consequence, no changes in correlation due to varying WM/Gf load, or lack of them, can yield an argument for or against any theory of WM/Gf. Moreover, as the mathematical properties of the correlation formula make it relatively immune to ceiling/floor effects for overall moderate correlations, only minor changes (if any) in the WM-Gf correlation should be expected for many psychological tests.}, }
@article {pmid26378672, year = {2015}, author = {Varland, DE}, title = {A Capture to Remember: Monitoring the Health of Avian Scavengers on the Pacific Coast.}, journal = {Journal of avian medicine and surgery}, volume = {29}, number = {3}, pages = {250-256}, doi = {10.1647/2014-057}, pmid = {26378672}, issn = {1082-6742}, mesh = {*Animal Identification Systems ; Animals ; Eagles/*physiology ; Washington ; }, abstract = {Because of concern over risks to the health of avian communities on the Washington and Oregon coasts, the nonprofit Coastal Raptors and other partners initiated a study where, to date, Coastal Raptors has live-captured and sampled 27 bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), 27 turkey vultures (Cathartes aura), and 6 common ravens (Corvus corax) for contaminants and disease study. In this article, the author highlights the events of one of the nearly 100 days on which trapping has occurred. An adult bald eagle was captured north of Ocean Shores, WA, USA, and the trapping team was visited by Quinault Indian Nation members.}, }
@article {pmid26371905, year = {2015}, author = {Tsao, CW and Cheng, YH and Hsueh, WJ}, title = {High-order micro-ring resonator with perfect transmission using symmetrical Fibonacci structures.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {40}, number = {18}, pages = {4237-4240}, doi = {10.1364/OL.40.004237}, pmid = {26371905}, issn = {1539-4794}, abstract = {A symmetrical Fibonacci micro-ring resonator (SFMR) has been presented to avoid the coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW) bottle, which is a bottle-shaped distribution for high orders in transmission spectra. The SFMR features three advantages that improve filtering quality compared to that provided by traditional periodic micro-ring resonators. First, sharper resonances are obtained by eliminating the CROW bottle from the mini gaps that appear in the major-band region. Second, peaks with perfect transmission are always obtained without a radius and coupling modulation in the mini-band regions and major-band regions. Third, the full width at half-maximum of the band-edge peak decreases with the increasing generation order.}, }
@article {pmid26368007, year = {2015}, author = {Gendler, E and Nagler, A}, title = {Aesthetic use of BoNT: Options and outcomes.}, journal = {Toxicon : official journal of the International Society on Toxinology}, volume = {107}, number = {Pt A}, pages = {120-128}, doi = {10.1016/j.toxicon.2015.08.023}, pmid = {26368007}, issn = {1879-3150}, mesh = {Blepharoptosis/drug therapy ; Botulinum Toxins/*therapeutic use ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Esthetics ; Face ; Facial Asymmetry/drug therapy ; Humans ; Skin Aging/drug effects ; }, abstract = {There are a multitude of uses for BoNT in the aesthetic realm. Efficacy has been shown in softening glabellar creases, crows feet, forehead rhytides, and in correcting facial asymmetries, including mild eyelid ptosis. Facial shape can be altered through injections of BoNT into masseter, and smiles can be altered with BoNT. Clinical examples of the above will be shown, as well as adverse outcomes with inaccurate injection techniques.}, }
@article {pmid26359640, year = {2015}, author = {Salant, H and Mazuz, ML and Savitsky, I and Nasereddin, A and Blinder, E and Baneth, G}, title = {Neospora caninum in crows from Israel.}, journal = {Veterinary parasitology}, volume = {212}, number = {3-4}, pages = {375-378}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetpar.2015.08.019}, pmid = {26359640}, issn = {1873-2550}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/blood/epidemiology/*parasitology ; Coccidiosis/blood/epidemiology/*veterinary ; *Crows ; Israel/epidemiology ; Neospora/*isolation &amp; purification ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; Serologic Tests/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {A cross-sectional Neospora caninum seroprevalence study was performed on free ranging crows (Corvus cornix, Corvus monedula and Corvus splendens) from Israel in order to assess their exposure to this pathogen and evaluate their role as potential hosts or as sentinels of infection. Using the modified agglutination test (MAT) with a cutoff titer of 1:100, 30 out of 183 crows (16.4%) were found to be N. caninum seropositive. Positive results were validated and confirmed by the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). There was 100% agreement between tests when cut-off titers of 1:50 and 1:100 were applied for the IFAT and MAT, respectively. PCR analysis of brain extracts from all crows resulted in the detection of N. caninum DNA for the first time in crows belonging to two species, C. cornix and C. monedula. The high N. caninum seroprevalence in crows suggests that widespread exposure to infection with N. caninum exists especially in central and northern Israel and that crows may act as suitable markers for disease prevalence in the areas in which they are found.}, }
@article {pmid26342705, year = {2016}, author = {Saakian, DB and Hu, CK}, title = {Mathematical Models of Quasi-Species Theory and Exact Results for the Dynamics.}, journal = {Current topics in microbiology and immunology}, volume = {392}, number = {}, pages = {121-139}, doi = {10.1007/82_2015_471}, pmid = {26342705}, issn = {0070-217X}, mesh = {*Evolution, Molecular ; Models, Genetic ; *Models, Theoretical ; Mutation ; }, abstract = {We formulate the Crow-Kimura, discrete-time Eigen model, and continuous-time Eigen model. These models are interrelated and we established an exact mapping between them. We consider the evolutionary dynamics for the single-peak fitness and symmetric smooth fitness. We applied the quantum mechanical methods to find the exact dynamics of the evolution model with a single-peak fitness. For the smooth symmetric fitness landscape, we map exactly the evolution equations into Hamilton-Jacobi equation (HJE). We apply the method to the Crow-Kimura (parallel) and Eigen models. We get simple formulas to calculate the dynamics of the maximum of distribution and the variance. We review the existing mathematical tools of quasi-species theory.}, }
@article {pmid26340810, year = {2016}, author = {Fleming, AS and Lonstein, JS and Lévy, F}, title = {Introduction to this Special Issue on parental behavior in honor of Jay S. Rosenblatt.}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {77}, number = {}, pages = {1-2}, doi = {10.1016/j.yhbeh.2015.08.012}, pmid = {26340810}, issn = {1095-6867}, }
@article {pmid26339539, year = {2015}, author = {Levi, T and Wheat, RE and Allen, JM and Wilmers, CC}, title = {Differential use of salmon by vertebrate consumers: implications for conservation.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {3}, number = {}, pages = {e1157}, pmid = {26339539}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {Salmon and other anadromous fish are consumed by vertebrates with distinct life history strategies to capitalize on this ephemeral pulse of resource availability. Depending on the timing of salmon arrival, this resource may be in surplus to the needs of vertebrate consumers if, for instance, their populations are limited by food availability during other times of year. However, the life history of some consumers enables more efficient exploitation of these ephemeral resources. Bears can deposit fat and then hibernate to avoid winter food scarcity, and highly mobile consumers such as eagles, gulls, and other birds can migrate to access asynchronous pulses of salmon availability. We used camera traps on pink, chum, and sockeye salmon spawning grounds with various run times and stream morphologies, and on individual salmon carcasses, to discern potentially different use patterns among consumers. Wildlife use of salmon was highly heterogeneous. Ravens were the only avian consumer that fed heavily on pink salmon in small streams. Eagles and gulls did not feed on early pink salmon runs in streams, and only moderately at early sockeye runs, but were the dominant consumers at late chum salmon runs, particularly on expansive river flats. Brown bears used all salmon resources far more than other terrestrial vertebrates. Notably, black bears were not observed on salmon spawning grounds despite being the most frequently observed vertebrate on roads and trails. From a conservation and management perspective, all salmon species and stream morphologies are used extensively by bears, but salmon spawning late in the year are disproportionately important to eagles and other highly mobile species that are seasonally limited by winter food availability.}, }
@article {pmid26335475, year = {2015}, author = {Hinton, MG and Reisen, WK and Wheeler, SS and Townsend, AK}, title = {West Nile Virus Activity in a Winter Roost of American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos): Is Bird-To-Bird Transmission Important in Persistence and Amplification?.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {52}, number = {4}, pages = {683-692}, pmid = {26335475}, issn = {0022-2585}, support = {R01 AI055607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; AI55607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animal Migration ; Animals ; California ; Crows/*virology ; Culex/virology ; Feces/virology ; Linear Models ; Seasons ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*transmission/veterinary/*virology ; West Nile virus/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Since its emergence in North America, West Nile virus (WNV) has had a large impact on equines, humans, and wild bird communities, yet gaps remain in our understanding of how the virus persists at temperate latitudes when winter temperatures preclude virus replication and host-seeking activity by mosquito vectors. Bird-to-bird transmission at large communal American Crow roosts could provide one mechanism for WNV persistence. Herein, we describe seasonal patterns of crow and Culex mosquito abundance, WNV infection rates, and the prevalence of WNV-positive fecal samples at a winter crow roost to test the hypothesis that bird-to-bird transmission allows WNV to persist at winter crow roosts. Samples were collected from large winter crow roosts in the Sacramento Valley of California from January 2013 until August 2014, encompassing two overwintering roost periods. West Nile virus RNA was detected in local crow carcasses in both summer [13/18 (72% WNV positive)] and winter [18/44 (41% WNV positive)] 2013-2014. Winter infections were unlikely to have arisen by recent bites from infected mosquitoes because Culex host-seeking activity was very low in winter and all Culex mosquitoes collected during winter months tested negative for WNV. Opportunities existed for fecal-oral transfer at the overwintering roost: most carcasses that tested positive for WNV had detectable viral RNA in both kidney and cloacal swabs, suggesting that infected crows were shedding virus in their feces, and >50% of crows at the roost were stained with feces by mid-winter. Moreover, 2.3% of fecal samples collected in late summer, when mosquitoes were active, tested positive for WNV RNA. Nevertheless, none of the 1,119 feces collected from three roosts over two winters contained detectable WNV RNA. This study provided evidence of WNV infection in overwintering American crows without mosquito vector activity, but did not elucidate a mechanism of WNV transmission during winter.}, }
@article {pmid26319224, year = {2016}, author = {Brummelte, S and Galea, LA}, title = {Postpartum depression: Etiology, treatment and consequences for maternal care.}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {77}, number = {}, pages = {153-166}, doi = {10.1016/j.yhbeh.2015.08.008}, pmid = {26319224}, issn = {1095-6867}, support = {MOP102568//Canadian Institutes of Health Research/Canada ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Child Development ; Depression/psychology ; Depression, Postpartum/*etiology/psychology/*therapy ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Maternal Behavior/*psychology ; *Mother-Child Relations ; Mothers/*psychology ; Postpartum Period ; Pregnancy ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {This article is part of a Special Issue "Parental Care". Pregnancy and postpartum are associated with dramatic alterations in steroid and peptide hormones which alter the mothers' hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) and hypothalamic pituitary gonadal (HPG) axes. Dysregulations in these endocrine axes are related to mood disorders and as such it should not come as a major surprise that pregnancy and the postpartum period can have profound effects on maternal mood. Indeed, pregnancy and postpartum are associated with an increased risk for developing depressive symptoms in women. Postpartum depression affects approximately 10-15% of women and impairs mother-infant interactions that in turn are important for child development. Maternal attachment, sensitivity and parenting style are essential for a healthy maturation of an infant's social, cognitive and behavioral skills and depressed mothers often display less attachment, sensitivity and more harsh or disrupted parenting behaviors, which may contribute to reports of adverse child outcomes in children of depressed mothers. Here we review, in honor of the "father of motherhood", Jay Rosenblatt, the literature on postnatal depression in the mother and its effect on mother-infant interactions. We will cover clinical and pre-clinical findings highlighting putative neurobiological mechanisms underlying postpartum depression and how they relate to maternal behaviors and infant outcome. We also review animal models that investigate the neurobiology of maternal mood and disrupted maternal care. In particular, we discuss the implications of endogenous and exogenous manipulations of glucocorticoids on maternal care and mood. Lastly we discuss interventions during gestation and postpartum that may improve maternal symptoms and behavior and thus may alter developmental outcome of the offspring.}, }
@article {pmid26314932, year = {2015}, author = {Longhi, S and Gatti, D and Della Valle, G}, title = {Robust light transport in non-Hermitian photonic lattices.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {13376}, pmid = {26314932}, issn = {2045-2322}, abstract = {Combating the effects of disorder on light transport in micro- and nano-integrated photonic devices is of major importance from both fundamental and applied viewpoints. In ordinary waveguides, imperfections and disorder cause unwanted back-reflections, which hinder large-scale optical integration. Topological photonic structures, a new class of optical systems inspired by quantum Hall effect and topological insulators, can realize robust transport via topologically-protected unidirectional edge modes. Such waveguides are realized by the introduction of synthetic gauge fields for photons in a two-dimensional structure, which break time reversal symmetry and enable one-way guiding at the edge of the medium. Here we suggest a different route toward robust transport of light in lower-dimensional (1D) photonic lattices, in which time reversal symmetry is broken because of the non-Hermitian nature of transport. While a forward propagating mode in the lattice is amplified, the corresponding backward propagating mode is damped, thus resulting in an asymmetric transport insensitive to disorder or imperfections in the structure. Non-Hermitian asymmetric transport can occur in tight-binding lattices with an imaginary gauge field via a non-Hermitian delocalization transition, and in periodically-driven superlattices. The possibility to observe non-Hermitian delocalization is suggested using an engineered coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) structure.}, }
@article {pmid26308874, year = {2014}, author = {Taylor, AH and Gray, RD}, title = {Is there a link between the crafting of tools and the evolution of cognition?.}, journal = {Wiley interdisciplinary reviews. Cognitive science}, volume = {5}, number = {6}, pages = {693-703}, doi = {10.1002/wcs.1322}, pmid = {26308874}, issn = {1939-5086}, abstract = {UNLABELLED: The ability to craft tools is one of the defining features of our species. The technical intelligence hypothesis predicts that tool-making species should have enhanced physical cognition. Here we review how the physical problem-solving performance of tool-making apes and corvids compares to closely related species. We conclude that, while some performance differences have been found, overall the evidence is at best equivocal. We argue that increased sample sizes, novel experimental designs, and a signature-testing approach are required to determine the effect tool crafting has on the evolution of intelligence. WIREs Cogn Sci 2014, 5:693-703. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1322 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.<br><br>CONFLICT OF INTEREST: The authors have declared no conflicts of interest for this article.}, }
@article {pmid26305970, year = {2015}, author = {Gabrielsen, P}, title = {Profile of Jay C. Dunlap.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {112}, number = {38}, pages = {11745-11747}, pmid = {26305970}, issn = {1091-6490}, mesh = {Animals ; Biochemistry/history ; Circadian Rhythm ; Dinoflagellida/*physiology ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Models, Biological ; Neurospora/genetics/*physiology ; Oceanography/history ; }, }
@article {pmid26305135, year = {2015}, author = {}, title = {Jay Haley: Books in English and Other Languages, and Films.}, journal = {The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis}, volume = {63}, number = {4}, pages = {477-481}, doi = {10.1080/00207144.2015.1080954}, pmid = {26305135}, issn = {1744-5183}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Hypnosis/*history ; Motion Pictures ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid26305134, year = {2015}, author = {Haley, J}, title = {Hypnotic Seminar.}, journal = {The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis}, volume = {63}, number = {4}, pages = {469-476}, doi = {10.1080/00207144.2015.1062705}, pmid = {26305134}, issn = {1744-5183}, mesh = {Dissociative Identity Disorder/history/therapy ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Hypnosis/*history ; Repression, Psychology ; United States ; }, abstract = {In this transcription of a lecture given in 2000, Jay Haley begins by answering the question, "What is hypnosis?" Haley reviews the circumstances of Gregory Bateson encouraging him to meet with Milton Erickson to discuss the history of hypnosis and the paradoxical nature of trance induction. Haley expresses many original thoughts about multiple personalities, regression to past lives, and how to handle memories that historically may be false. Sophisticated and subtle, this is Haley at his best.}, }
@article {pmid26305133, year = {2015}, author = {Haley, J and Richeport-Haley, M}, title = {Autohypnosis and Trance Dance in Bali.}, journal = {The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis}, volume = {63}, number = {4}, pages = {455-468}, doi = {10.1080/00207144.2015.1062701}, pmid = {26305133}, issn = {1744-5183}, mesh = {Child ; Culture ; Dancing/*history/psychology ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Hypnosis/*history ; Indonesia ; }, abstract = {A masterpiece of historical importance, this paper recounts Jay and Madeleine Haley's trip to Bali nearly 50 years after Gregory Bateson and Margaret Mead first went there. The Haleys met several of the same individuals who greeted Bateson and Mead and made a film they entitled "Dance and Trance of Balinese Children." This is a fascinating document of a culture and society so different from our own and the technique of dance and trance used to regulate emotion and violence.}, }
@article {pmid26305132, year = {2015}, author = {Haley, J}, title = {Jay Haley's Supervision of a Case of Dissociative.}, journal = {The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis}, volume = {63}, number = {4}, pages = {444-454}, doi = {10.1080/00207144.2015.1062697}, pmid = {26305132}, issn = {1744-5183}, mesh = {Dissociative Identity Disorder/*history/psychology/therapy ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Hypnosis/*history/methods ; }, abstract = {This is a transcript of a supervision session with a young therapist caught in the complex world of a woman with multiple personality. Occurring very early in the written literature about treating multiple personalities, the highlight of this paper is the supervision style and technique of Jay Haley. His approach to supervision will make the reader wish that he or she could be in the room during this session.}, }
@article {pmid26305130, year = {2015}, author = {Haley, J}, title = {Discussions on Hypnosis and Schizophrenia.}, journal = {The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis}, volume = {63}, number = {4}, pages = {403-421}, doi = {10.1080/00207144.2015.1062695}, pmid = {26305130}, issn = {1744-5183}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Hypnosis/*history ; Schizophrenia/*history/therapy ; Schizophrenic Psychology ; }, abstract = {A classic paper in intellect and argument, this article contains a transcript of a conversation between Jay Haley, John Weakland, and Milton Erickson as they discuss the role of communication in hypnosis and schizophrenia. In 1955, schizophrenia was considered primarily a psychological disorder. Whereas today schizophrenia is mostly considered a biological disorder, this very early, unpublished paper still gives much food for thought and a further glimpse into Haley and Erickson's thinking and intellect at a fervent time in schizophrenia research.}, }
@article {pmid26305129, year = {2015}, author = {Haley, J}, title = {Explorer in Hypnosis.}, journal = {The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis}, volume = {63}, number = {4}, pages = {380-402}, doi = {10.1080/00207144.2015.1062690}, pmid = {26305129}, issn = {1744-5183}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Hypnosis/*history ; United States ; }, abstract = {Written in 1957, this paper was Jay Haley's first attempt to organize his impressions of Milton Erickson. The article captures the essence of Erickson: the man, his early concepts of the trance state, his flexibility in trance induction, and his delight in working with those considered "resistant subjects." In this early paper, Jay Haley clearly recognizes Erickson's potential impact on therapy and clinicians around the world. This paper reminds readers of the importance of therapeutic relationship and the power of effective communication.}, }
@article {pmid26305128, year = {2015}, author = {Bloom, PB}, title = {Comment on the Special Issue: Jay Douglas Haley.}, journal = {The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis}, volume = {63}, number = {4}, pages = {376-379}, doi = {10.1080/00207144.2015.1062688}, pmid = {26305128}, issn = {1744-5183}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Hypnosis/*history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid26305127, year = {2015}, author = {Willmarth, EK}, title = {Foreword to the Special Issue: Rediscovering Jay Haley's Contributions to Hypnosis.}, journal = {The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis}, volume = {63}, number = {4}, pages = {373-375}, doi = {10.1080/00207144.2015.1062687}, pmid = {26305127}, issn = {1744-5183}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Hypnosis/*history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid26304918, year = {2015}, author = {Hofmeister, EK and Dusek, RJ and Brand, CJ}, title = {Surveillance Potential of Non-Native Hawaiian Birds for Detection of West Nile Virus.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {93}, number = {4}, pages = {701-708}, pmid = {26304918}, issn = {1476-1645}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/virology ; Birds/*virology ; Disease Reservoirs/virology ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay ; Hawaii/epidemiology ; Population Surveillance/methods ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Viremia/epidemiology/veterinary ; West Nile Fever/*veterinary ; *West Nile virus/immunology ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) was first detected in North America in 1999. Alaska and Hawaii (HI) remain the only U.S. states in which transmission of WNV has not been detected. Dead bird surveillance has played an important role in the detection of the virus geographically, as well as temporally. In North America, corvids have played a major role in WNV surveillance; however, the only corvid in HI is the endangered Hawaiian crow that exists only in captivity, thus precluding the use of this species for WNV surveillance in HI. To evaluate the suitability of alternate avian species for WNV surveillance, we experimentally challenged seven abundant non-native bird species present in HI with WNV and compared mortality, viremia, oral shedding of virus, and seroconversion. For detection of WNV in oral swabs, we compared viral culture, reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, and the RAMP(®) test. For detection of antibodies to WNV, we compared an indirect and a competitive enzyme-linked immunoassay. We found four species (house sparrow, house finch, Japanese white-eye, and Java sparrow) that may be useful in dead bird surveillance for WNV; while common myna, zebra dove, and spotted dove survived infection and may be useful in serosurveillance.}, }
@article {pmid26304026, year = {2015}, author = {Kong, F and Chen, Z and Xue, S and Wang, X and Liu, J}, title = {Mother's but not father's education predicts general fluid intelligence in emerging adulthood: Behavioral and neuroanatomical evidence.}, journal = {Human brain mapping}, volume = {36}, number = {11}, pages = {4582-4591}, pmid = {26304026}, issn = {1097-0193}, mesh = {Adult ; Educational Status ; Fathers/*education ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Mothers/*education ; Prefrontal Cortex/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Lower parental education impairs cognitive abilities of their offspring such as general fluid intelligence dependent on the prefrontal cortex (PFC), but the independent contribution of mother's and father's education is unknown. We used an individual difference approach to test whether mother's and father's education independently affected general fluid intelligence in emerging adulthood at both the behavioral and neural level. Behaviorally, mother's but not father's education accounted for unique variance in general fluid intelligence in emerging adulthood (assessed by the Raven's advanced progressive matrices). Neurally, the whole-brain correlation analysis revealed that the regional gray matter volume (rGMV) in the medial PFC was related to both mother's education and general fluid intelligence but not father's education. Furthermore, after controlling for mother's education, the association between general fluid intelligence and the rGMV in medial PFC was no longer significant, indicating that mother's education plays an important role in influencing the structure of the medial PFC associated with general fluid intelligence. Taken together, our study provides the first behavioral and neural evidence that mother's education is a more important determinant of general cognitive ability in emerging adulthood than father's education.}, }
@article {pmid26302355, year = {2015}, author = {Poelstra, JW and Vijay, N and Hoeppner, MP and Wolf, JB}, title = {Transcriptomics of colour patterning and coloration shifts in crows.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {24}, number = {18}, pages = {4617-4628}, doi = {10.1111/mec.13353}, pmid = {26302355}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Crows/*genetics ; Feathers ; Male ; Melanins/genetics ; Phenotype ; Pigmentation/*genetics ; Sequence Analysis, RNA ; *Transcriptome ; }, abstract = {Animal coloration is one of the most conspicuous phenotypic traits in natural populations and has important implications for adaptation and speciation. Changes in coloration can occur over surprisingly short evolutionary timescales, while recurrence of similar colour patterns across large phylogenetic distances is also common. Even though the genetic basis of pigment production is well understood, little is known about the mechanisms regulating colour patterning. In this study, we shed light on the molecular elements regulating regional pigment production in two genetically near-identical crow taxa with striking differences in a eumelanin-based phenotype: black carrion and grey-coated hooded crows. We produced a high-quality genome annotation and analysed transcriptome data from a 2 × 2 design of active melanogenic feather follicles from head (black in both taxa) and torso (black in carrion and grey in hooded crow). Extensive, parallel expression differences between body regions in both taxa, enriched for melanogenesis genes (e.g. ASIP, CORIN, and ALDH6), indicated the presence of cryptic prepatterning also in all-black carrion crows. Meanwhile, colour-specific expression (grey vs. black) was limited to a small number of melanogenesis genes in close association with the central transcription factor MITF (most notably HPGDS, NDP and RASGRF1). We conclude that colour pattern differences between the taxa likely result from an interaction between divergence in upstream elements of the melanogenesis pathway and genes that provide an underlying prepattern across the body through positional information. A model of evolutionary stable prepatterns that can be exposed and masked through simple regulatory changes may explain the phylogenetically independent recurrence of colour patterns that is observed across corvids and many other vertebrate groups.}, }
@article {pmid26301340, year = {2015}, author = {Schmelz, M and Krüger, O and Call, J and Krause, ET}, title = {A comparison of spontaneous problem-solving abilities in three estrildid finch (Taeniopygia guttata, Lonchura striata var. domestica, Stagonopleura guttata) species.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {129}, number = {4}, pages = {356-365}, doi = {10.1037/a0039646}, pmid = {26301340}, issn = {1939-2087}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Female ; Finches/*physiology ; Male ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Cognition has been extensively studied in primates while other, more distantly related taxa have been neglected for a long time. More recently, there has been an increased interest in avian cognition, with the focus mostly on big-brained species like parrots and corvids. However, the majority of bird species has never systematically been studied in diverse cognitive tasks other than memory and learning tasks, so not much can yet be concluded about the relevant factors for the evolution of cognition. Here we examined 3 species of the estrildid finch family in problem-solving tasks. These granivorous, non-tool-using birds are distributed across 3 continents and are not known for high levels of innovation or spontaneous problem solving in the wild. In this study, our aim was to find such abilities in these species, assess what role domestication might play with a comparison of 4 genetically separated zebra finch strains, and to look for between-species differences between zebra finches, Bengalese finches, and diamond firetails. Furthermore, we established a 3-step spontaneous problem-solving procedure with increasing levels of complexity. Results showed that some estrildid finches were generally capable of spontaneously solving problems of variable complexity to obtain food. We found striking differences in these abilities between species, but not between strains within species, and offer a discussion of potential reasons. Our established methodology can now be applied to a larger number of bird species for phylogenetic comparisons on the behavioral level to get a deeper understanding of the evolution of cognitive abilities.}, }
@article {pmid26297666, year = {2015}, author = {Dridi, M and Rosseel, T and Orton, R and Johnson, P and Lecollinet, S and Muylkens, B and Lambrecht, B and Van Borm, S}, title = {Next-generation sequencing shows West Nile virus quasispecies diversification after a single passage in a carrion crow (Corvus corone) in vivo infection model.}, journal = {The Journal of general virology}, volume = {96}, number = {10}, pages = {2999-3009}, doi = {10.1099/jgv.0.000231}, pmid = {26297666}, issn = {1465-2099}, support = {BB/K004484/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; G0801822/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Chickens ; Crows/*virology ; Disease Models, Animal ; *Genetic Variation ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; Molecular Sequence Data ; RNA, Viral/genetics ; Reverse Transcription ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; West Nile Fever/*virology ; West Nile virus/*classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) occurs as a population of genetic variants (quasispecies) infecting a single animal. Previous low-resolution viral genetic diversity estimates in sampled wild birds and mosquitoes, and in multiple-passage adaptation studies in vivo or in cell culture, suggest that WNV genetic diversification is mostly limited to the mosquito vector. This study investigated genetic diversification of WNV in avian hosts during a single passage using next-generation sequencing. Wild-captured carrion crows were subcutaneously infected using a clonal Middle-East WNV. Blood samples were collected 2 and 4 days post-infection. A reverse-transcription (RT)-PCR approach was used to amplify the WNV genome directly from serum samples prior to next-generation sequencing resulting in an average depth of at least 700 × in each sample. Appropriate controls were sequenced to discriminate biologically relevant low-frequency variants from experimentally introduced errors. The WNV populations in the wild crows showed significant diversification away from the inoculum virus quasispecies structure. By contrast, WNV populations in intracerebrally infected day-old chickens did not diversify from that of the inoculum. Where previous studies concluded that WNV genetic diversification is only experimentally demonstrated in its permissive insect vector species, we have experimentally shown significant diversification of WNV populations in a wild bird reservoir species.}, }
@article {pmid26296535, year = {2016}, author = {Ambra, FI and Iavarone, A and Ronga, B and Chieffi, S and Carnevale, G and Iaccarino, L and Cimminella, F and Chiavazzo, A and Garofalo, E}, title = {Qualitative patterns at Raven's colored progressive matrices in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease.}, journal = {Aging clinical and experimental research}, volume = {28}, number = {3}, pages = {561-565}, doi = {10.1007/s40520-015-0438-9}, pmid = {26296535}, issn = {1720-8319}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Alzheimer Disease/*diagnosis ; Animals ; Cognitive Dysfunction/*diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Visuo-spatial and problem-solving abilities are commonly impaired in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Conversely, subjects with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) do not exhibit overt involvement of cognitive domains other than memory. Consequently, a detection of an impairment at the Raven's colored progressive matrices (RCPM) could be useful to discriminate aMCI from AD and to mark the progression from one condition to another.<br><br>AIM OF THE STUDY: To describe the pattern of errors at RCPM in subjects suffering from AD as compared with that of aMCI.<br><br>METHODS: Fifteen patients with AD, 15 subjects with aMCI and 31 Healthy Controls (HC) received the RCPM. The errors were classified as: (1) difference (D); (2) inadequate individuation (II); (3) repetition of the pattern (RP); (4) incomplete correlation (IC).<br><br>RESULTS: No difference approached significance between aMCI subjects and HC. AD patients always exhibited a higher number of errors as compared with HC. AD patients showed higher number of errors as compared with aMCI only on RP and IC errors.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that the visuo-spatial and problem-solving impairment that characterize AD, and probably subtend the progression from aMCI to dementia, do not affect to the same extent all cognitive dimensions explored by RCPM.}, }
@article {pmid26287671, year = {2015}, author = {Dorazio, RM and Connor, EF and Askins, RA}, title = {Estimating the Effects of Habitat and Biological Interactions in an Avian Community.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {10}, number = {8}, pages = {e0135987}, pmid = {26287671}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {*Animal Communication ; Animals ; Birds ; *Ecosystem ; *Residence Characteristics ; }, abstract = {We used repeated sightings of individual birds encountered in community-level surveys to investigate the relative roles of habitat and biological interactions in determining the distribution and abundance of each species. To analyze these data, we developed a multispecies N-mixture model that allowed estimation of both positive and negative correlations between abundances of different species while also estimating the effects of habitat and the effects of errors in detection of each species. Using a combination of single- and multispecies N-mixture modeling, we examined for each species whether our measures of habitat were sufficient to account for the variation in encounter histories of individual birds or whether other habitat variables or interactions with other species needed to be considered. In the community that we studied, habitat appeared to be more influential than biological interactions in determining the distribution and abundance of most avian species. Our results lend support to the hypothesis that abundances of forest specialists are negatively affected by forest fragmentation. Our results also suggest that many species were associated with particular types of vegetation as measured by structural attributes of the forests. The abundances of 6 of the 73 species observed in our study were strongly correlated. These species included large birds (American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus)) that forage on the ground in open habitats and small birds (Red-eyed Vireo (Vireo olivaceus), House Wren (Troglodytes aedon), Hooded Warbler (Setophaga citrina), and Prairie Warbler (Setophaga discolor)) that are associated with dense shrub cover. Species abundances were positively correlated within each size group and negatively correlated between groups. Except for the American Crow, which preys on eggs and nestlings of small song birds, none of the other 5 species is known to display direct interactions, so we suspect that the correlations may have been associated with species-specific responses to habitat components not adequately measured by our covariates.}, }
@article {pmid26276368, year = {2016}, author = {Logan, CJ and Breen, AJ and Taylor, AH and Gray, RD and Hoppitt, WJ}, title = {How New Caledonian crows solve novel foraging problems and what it means for cumulative culture.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {44}, number = {1}, pages = {18-28}, pmid = {26276368}, issn = {1543-4508}, support = {BB/I007997/1//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Communication ; *Crows ; *Learning ; *Social Behavior ; Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian crows make and use tools, and tool types vary over geographic landscapes. Social learning may explain the variation in tool design, but it is unknown to what degree social learning accounts for the maintenance of these designs. Indeed, little is known about the mechanisms these crows use to obtain information from others, despite the question's importance in understanding whether tool behavior is transmitted via social, genetic, or environmental means. For social transmission to account for tool-type variation, copying must utilize a mechanism that is action specific (e.g., pushing left vs. right) as well as context specific (e.g., pushing a particular object vs. any object). To determine whether crows can copy a demonstrator's actions as well as the contexts in which they occur, we conducted a diffusion experiment using a novel foraging task. We used a nontool task to eliminate any confounds introduced by individual differences in their prior tool experience. Two groups had demonstrators (trained in isolation on different options of a four-option task, including a two-action option) and one group did not. We found that crows socially learn about context: After observers see a demonstrator interact with the task, they are more likely to interact with the same parts of the task. In contrast, observers did not copy the demonstrator's specific actions. Our results suggest it is unlikely that observing tool-making behavior transmits tool types. We suggest it is possible that tool types are transmitted when crows copy the physical form of the tools they encounter.}, }
@article {pmid26270999, year = {2015}, author = {Haapala, EA and Eloranta, AM and Venäläinen, T and Schwab, U and Lindi, V and Lakka, TA}, title = {Associations of diet quality with cognition in children - the Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children Study.}, journal = {The British journal of nutrition}, volume = {114}, number = {7}, pages = {1080-1087}, doi = {10.1017/S0007114515001634}, pmid = {26270999}, issn = {1475-2662}, mesh = {Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Diet ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Motor Activity ; Nutritional Status ; }, abstract = {Evidence on the associations of dietary patterns with cognition in children is limited. Therefore, we investigated the associations of the Baltic Sea Diet Score (BSDS) and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) score with cognition in children. The present cross-sectional study sample included 428 children aged 6-8 years (216 boys and 212 girls). The BSDS and the DASH score were calculated using data from 4 d food records, higher scores indicating better diet quality. Cognition was assessed by the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM) score, a higher score indicating better cognition. Among all children, the BSDS (standardised regression coefficient β = 0·122, P =0·012) and the DASH score (β = 0·121, P =0·015) were directly associated with the Raven's CPM score. Among boys, a lower BSDS (β = 0·244, P< 0·001) and a lower DASH score (β = 0·202, P= 0·003) were related to a lower Raven's CPM score. Boys in the lowest quartile of the BSDS (22·5 v. 25·3, P= 0·029) and the DASH score (22·4 v. 25·7, P= 0·008) had a lower Raven's CPM score than those in the highest quartile of the corresponding score. Among girls, the BSDS or the DASH score were not associated with cognition. In conclusion, a poorer diet quality was associated with worse cognition in children, and the relationship was stronger in boys than in girls.}, }
@article {pmid26267805, year = {2016}, author = {Watanabe, A and Clayton, NS}, title = {Hint-seeking behaviour of western scrub-jays in a metacognition task.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {19}, number = {1}, pages = {53-64}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-015-0912-y}, pmid = {26267805}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Appetitive Behavior ; Cues ; Female ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term ; *Metacognition ; *Passeriformes ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Metacognitive processes during memory retrieval can be tested by examining whether or not animals can assess their knowledge state when they are faced with a memory test. In a typical foraging task, food is hidden in one of the multiple tubes and the subjects are given an opportunity to check the contents of the tubes before choosing the one that they thought contained food. Following the findings from our previous study that western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) can make prospective metacognition judgements, this study tested the scrub-jays' concurrent metacognition judgements. In a series of experiments, uncertainty about the food location was induced in three ways: by making the baiting process visibly unavailable, by inserting a delay between the baiting and food retrieval, and by moving the location of the bait. The jays looked into the tubes more often during the conditions that were consistent with high uncertainty. In addition, their looking behaviour was associated not with the sight of food but with information about the location of the food. These findings suggest that the jays can differentiate the states of knowing and not knowing about certain information and take appropriate action to complement their missing knowledge.}, }
@article {pmid26266937, year = {2015}, author = {Jelbert, SA and Singh, PJ and Gray, RD and Taylor, AH}, title = {New Caledonian crows rapidly solve a collaborative problem without cooperative cognition.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {10}, number = {8}, pages = {e0133253}, pmid = {26266937}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Cognition/physiology ; *Cooperative Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {There is growing comparative evidence that the cognitive bases of cooperation are not unique to humans. However, the selective pressures that lead to the evolution of these mechanisms remain unclear. Here we show that while tool-making New Caledonian crows can produce collaborative behavior, they do not understand the causality of cooperation nor show sensitivity to inequity. Instead, the collaborative behavior produced appears to have been underpinned by the transfer of prior experience. These results suggest that a number of possible selective pressures, including tool manufacture and mobbing behaviours, have not led to the evolution of cooperative cognition in this species. They show that causal cognition can evolve in a domain specific manner-understanding the properties and flexible uses of physical tools does not necessarily enable animals to grasp that a conspecific can be used as a social tool.}, }
@article {pmid26263405, year = {2015}, author = {Sanz-Cervera, P and Pastor-Cerezuela, G and Fernández-Andrés, MI and Tárraga-Mínguez, R}, title = {Sensory processing in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Relationship with non-verbal IQ, autism severity and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder symptomatology.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {45-46}, number = {}, pages = {188-201}, doi = {10.1016/j.ridd.2015.07.031}, pmid = {26263405}, issn = {1873-3379}, mesh = {Adult ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*psychology ; Autism Spectrum Disorder/physiopathology/*psychology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; *Environment ; Faculty ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Parents ; Perception ; Perceptual Disorders/physiopathology/*psychology ; Severity of Illness Index ; *Social Participation ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {The main objective of this study was to analyze in a sample of children with ASD the relationship between sensory processing, social participation and praxis impairments and some of the child's characteristics, such as non-verbal IQ, severity of ASD symptoms and the number of ADHD symptoms (inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity), both in the home and main-classroom environments. Participants were the parents and teachers of 41 children with ASD from 5 to 8 years old (M=6.09). They completed the Sensory Processing Measure (SPM) to evaluate sensory processing, social participation and praxis; the Gilliam Autism Rating Scale (GARS-2) to evaluate autism severity; and a set of items (the DSM-IV-TR criteria) to evaluate the number of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms in the child. Non-verbal IQ - measured by the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices Test - did not show a relationship with any of the SPM variables. The SPM variables were significant predictors of autism severity and had similar weights in the two environments. In the case of ADHD symptoms, the SPM variables had a greater weight in the home than in the classroom environment, and they were significant predictors of both inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity - especially inattention - only in the family context. The moderate association between inattention and auditory processing found in the main-classroom suggests the possible utility of certain measures aimed to simplify any classroom's acoustic environment.}, }
@article {pmid26255848, year = {2015}, author = {Moll, FW and Nieder, A}, title = {Cross-Modal Associative Mnemonic Signals in Crow Endbrain Neurons.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {25}, number = {16}, pages = {2196-2201}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2015.07.013}, pmid = {26255848}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; Choice Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; *Memory, Long-Term ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Neurons/*physiology ; Telencephalon/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The ability to associate stimuli across time and sensory modalities endows animals and humans with many of the complex, learned behaviors. For successful performance, associations need to be retrieved from long-term memory and maintained active in working memory. We investigated how this is accomplished in the avian brain. We trained carrion crows (Corvus corone) to perform a bimodal delayed paired associate task in which the crows had to match auditory stimuli to delayed visual items. Single-unit recordings from the association area nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL) revealed sustained memory signals that selectively correlated with the learned audio-visual associations across time and modality, and sustained activity prospectively encoded the crows' choices. NCL neurons carried an internal, stimulus-independent signal that was predictive of error and type of error. These results underscore the role of corvid NCL in synthesizing external multisensory information and internal mnemonic data needed for executive control of behavior.}, }
@article {pmid26250000, year = {2015}, author = {Donnellan, SC and Foster, R and Junge, C and Huveneers, C and Rogers, P and Kilian, A and Bertozzi, T}, title = {Fiddling with the proof: the Magpie Fiddler Ray is a colour pattern variant of the common Southern Fiddler Ray (Rhinobatidae: Trygonorrhina).}, journal = {Zootaxa}, volume = {3981}, number = {3}, pages = {367-384}, doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.3981.3.3}, pmid = {26250000}, issn = {1175-5326}, mesh = {Animal Distribution ; Animal Structures/anatomy &amp; histology/growth &amp; development ; Animals ; Australia ; Body Size ; Coleoptera/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification/growth &amp; development ; Color ; Ecosystem ; Female ; Male ; Organ Size ; Phylogeny ; Skates, Fish/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification/genetics/growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {The Magpie Fiddler ray, Trygonorrhina melaleuca Scott 1954, is presently South Australia's (SA) rarest fish, represented by only three museum specimens collected near Adelaide over the past 60 years and listed as Endangered in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. However, there is some doubt as to whether the Magpie Fiddler Ray is a different species from the widespread and common Southern Fiddler Ray, Trygonorrhina dumerilii (Castelnau 1873), resulting in two very contrasting scenarios for marine conservation. If the Magpie Fiddler Ray is a black and white patterned variant of the Southern Fiddler Ray then it will be removed from the Red List and appear as a synonym of T. dumerilii. Conversely, if it proves to be a different species then it remains SA's rarest fish species and highly data deficient. We analysed mtDNA and the largest ever nuclear gene dataset (>4,000 loci) applied to chondrichthyan species level systematics from the most recently collected Magpie Fiddler Ray specimens and a geographically representative selection of Southern Fiddler Rays to determine the species status of this enigmatic ray. We found that the Magpie Fiddler Rays share a mitochondrial haplotype with 23 Southern Fiddler Rays and are not differentiated from 35 Southern Fiddler Rays at more than 4000 SNPs derived from DArTseq data. The morphological trait values that are putatively diagnostic for the Magpie Fiddler Ray fall within the range of variation observed among Southern Fiddler Rays. Our analyses are consistent with the notion that the Magpie Fiddler Ray is a rare colour and pattern variant of the widespread and abundant Southern Fiddler Ray. We also identified two hybrids between the Eastern and Southern Fiddler Rays, only the third time that hybrids have been identified in nature in chondrichthyans. Our results provide critical guidance in the assessment of its conservation status and an ending to a 60 year old conundrum for marine conservation.}, }
@article {pmid26249225, year = {2015}, author = {Raven, RJ}, title = {A revision of ant-mimicking spiders of the family Corinnidae (Araneae) in the Western Pacific.}, journal = {Zootaxa}, volume = {3958}, number = {}, pages = {1-258}, doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.3958.1.1}, pmid = {26249225}, issn = {1175-5334}, mesh = {Animal Distribution ; Animal Structures/anatomy &amp; histology/growth &amp; development ; Animals ; Australia ; Body Size ; Ecosystem ; Female ; Fiji ; Male ; Melanesia ; Organ Size ; Spiders/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification/growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {The Corinnidae of the western Pacific are revised. The formerly sparassid genus Anchognatha Thorell, 1881, and the gnaphosid genus Battalus Karsch, 1878, are transferred to the Castianeirinae. The Corinninae include only the introduced Creugas gulosus Thorell, 1878 and Medmassa christae sp. nov. from the northern Torres Strait islands. Medmassa pallipes (L. Koch, 1873) and Medmassa pusilla Simon, 1896 are newly synonymised with Creugas gulosus. The Castianeirinae from the Western Pacific including Australia includes Battalus Karsch, 1878, Copa Simon, 1886, Leichhardteus Raven &amp; Baehr, 2013, Nyssus Walckenaer, 1805, Poecilipta Simon, 1897, and eight new genera: Disnyssus gen. nov., Iridonyssus gen. nov., Kolora gen. nov., Leptopicia gen. nov., Melanesotypus gen. nov., Nucastia gen. nov., Ozcopa gen. nov. and Ticopa gen. nov. Battalus includes B. adamparsonsi sp. nov., B. baehrae sp. nov., B. bidgemia sp. nov., B. byrneae sp. nov., B. diadens sp. nov., B. helenstarkae sp. nov., B. microspinosus sp. nov., B. rugosus sp. nov., B. spinipes Karsch, 1878, B. wallum sp. nov., B. zuytdorp sp. nov. and B. semiflavus (Simon, 1896), new combination (transferred from Medmassa). Copa, an otherwise African and Sri Lankan genus, includes C. kabana sp. nov. Disnyssus gen. nov. includes D. helenmirrenae sp. nov. and D. judidenchae sp. nov. Iridonyssus gen. nov. includes I. auripilosus sp. nov., I. formicans sp. nov., I. kohouti sp. nov. and I. leucostaurus sp. nov. Kolora gen. nov. includes K. cushingae sp. nov., K. cooloola sp. nov. and K. lynneae sp. nov., and K. sauverubens (Simon, 1896) new combination (transferred from Corinnomma Karsch, 1880). Leichhardteus includes Leichhardteus yagan sp. nov., Leichhardteus evschlingeri sp. nov., Leichhardteus strzelecki sp. nov., as well as eight recently described species. Leptopicia gen. nov. includes only Methesis bimaculata (Simon, 1896) new combination (transferred from Methesis Simon, 1896). Melanesotypus guadal gen. et sp. nov. is described from the Solomon Islands. Nucastia gen. nov., includes N. culburra sp. nov., N. eneabba sp. nov., N. muncoonie sp. nov., N. supunnoides sp. nov. and N. virewoods sp. nov.; Medmassa fusca Hogg, 1900 is transferred to Nucastia but is considered a nomen dubium. The genera Anchognatha and Supunna Simon, 1897 are junior synonyms of Nyssus, which includes Supunna albopunctatus (Hogg, 1896), Anchognatha avida Thorell, 1881, Nyssus coloripes Walckenaer, 1805, N. emu sp. nov., Agroeca insularis L. Koch, 1873 (from Fiji and the Solomon Islands), N. jaredwarden sp. nov., N. jonraveni sp. nov., N. loureedi sp. nov., N. luteofinis sp. nov., N. paradoxus sp. nov., N. pseudomaculatus sp. nov., N. robertsi sp. nov., N. semifuscus sp. nov., N. wendyae sp. nov. and N. yuggera sp. nov. Supunna funerea (Simon, 1896) and Supunna albomaculata (Rainbow, 1902) are junior synonyms of Nyssus albopunctatus; Supunna picta (L. Koch, 1873) and Storena auripes Rainbow, 1916 are junior synonyms of Nyssus coloripes Walckenaer, 1805. Ozcopa gen. nov. includes O. chiunei sp. nov., O. colloffi sp. nov., O. margotandersenae sp. nov., O. mcdonaldi sp. nov., O. monteithi sp. nov. and O. zborowskii sp. nov. Poecilipta includes P. carnarvon sp. nov., P. contorqua sp. nov., P. davidi sp. nov., P. elvis sp. nov., P. formiciforme (Rainbow, 1904) comb. nov. (transferred from Corinnomma), P. gloverae sp. nov., P. harveyi sp. nov., P. kgari sp. nov., P. samueli sp. nov., P. janthina Simon, 1896, P. kohouti sp. nov., P. lugubris sp. nov., P. marengo sp. nov., P. metallica sp. nov., P. micaelae sp. nov., P. qunats sp. nov., P. rawlinsonae sp. nov., P. ruthae Santana &amp; Raven, sp. nov., P. smaragdinea (Simon, 1909) new combination (transferred from Supunna), P. tinda sp. nov., P. venusta Rainbow, 1904, P. waldockae sp. nov., P. wallacei sp. nov., P. yambuna sp. nov., and P. zbigniewi sp. nov. Ticopa gen. nov. includes T. australis sp. nov., T. carnarvon sp. nov., T. chinchilla sp. nov., T. dingo sp. nov., T. hudsoni sp. nov., and T. longbottomi sp. nov. For comparative purposes, males of the South-east Asian Corinnomma severum (Thorell, 1881) (the type-species) and C. javanum Simon, 1905 are figured and supplementary notes provided. Liocranum australiensis L. Koch, 1873 is transferred from Medmassa to Miturga where it is a nomen dubium. One hundred and eight species are treated in this work, of which 77 are new, 21 existing species are recognised; five existing genera are recognised, two are placed in synonymy, eight new genera are added; and one species is transferred to Miturgidae and another is listed as a nomen dubium. The Australian corinnid fauna includes 14 genera and 97 species.}, }
@article {pmid26246543, year = {2015}, author = {Taylor, AH and Cheke, LG and Waismeyer, A and Meltzoff, A and Miller, R and Gopnik, A and Clayton, NS and Gray, RD}, title = {No conclusive evidence that corvids can create novel causal interventions.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {282}, number = {1813}, pages = {20150796}, pmid = {26246543}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; *Cognition ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; *Learning ; Male ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, }
@article {pmid26240853, year = {2015}, author = {Sollmann, R and Gardner, B and Chandler, RB and Royle, JA and Sillett, TS}, title = {An open-population hierarchical distance sampling model.}, journal = {Ecology}, volume = {96}, number = {2}, pages = {325-331}, doi = {10.1890/14-1625.1}, pmid = {26240853}, issn = {0012-9658}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Computer Simulation ; Environmental Monitoring/*methods ; *Models, Biological ; Population Dynamics ; Sample Size ; }, abstract = {Modeling population dynamics while accounting for imperfect detection is essential to monitoring programs. Distance sampling allows estimating population size while accounting for imperfect detection, but existing methods do not allow for estimation of demographic parameters. We develop a model that uses temporal correlation in abundance arising from underlying population dynamics to estimate demographic parameters from repeated distance sampling surveys. Using a simulation study motivated by designing a monitoring program for Island Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma insularis), we investigated the power of this model to detect population trends. We generated temporally autocorrelated abundance and distance sampling data over six surveys, using population rates of change of 0.95 and 0.90. We fit the data generating Markovian model and a mis-specified model with a log-linear time effect on abundance, and derived post hoc trend estimates from a model estimating abundance for each survey separately. We performed these analyses for varying numbers of survey points. Power to detect population changes was consistently greater under the Markov model than under the alternatives, particularly for reduced numbers of survey points. The model can readily be extended to more complex demographic processes than considered in our simulations. This novel framework can be widely adopted for wildlife population monitoring.}, }
@article {pmid26240661, year = {2015}, author = {Comyns, T and Kenny, I and Scales, G}, title = {Effects of a Low-Load Gluteal Warm-Up on Explosive Jump Performance.}, journal = {Journal of human kinetics}, volume = {46}, number = {}, pages = {177-187}, pmid = {26240661}, issn = {1640-5544}, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a low-load gluteal warm-up protocol on countermovement and squat jump performance. Research by Crow et al. (2012) found that a low-load gluteal warm-up could be effective in enhancing peak power output during a countermovement jump. Eleven subjects performed countermovement and squat jumps before and after the gluteal warm-up protocol. Both jumps were examined in separate testing sessions and performed 30 seconds, and 2, 4, 6 &amp; 8 minutes post warm-up. Height jumped and peak ground reaction force were the dependent variables examined in both jumps, with 6 additional variables related to fast force production being examined in the squat jump only. All jumps were performed on a force platform (AMTI OR6-5). Repeated measures analysis of variance found a number of significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) between baseline and post warm-up scores. Height jumped decreased significantly in both jumps at all rest intervals excluding 8 minutes. Improvement was seen in 7 of the 8 recorded SJ variables at the 8 minute interval. Five of these improvements were deemed statistically significant, namely time to peak GRF (43.0%), and time to the maximum rate of force development (65.7%) significantly decreased, while starting strength (63.4%), change of force in first 100 ms of contraction (49.1%) and speed strength (43.6%) significantly increased. The results indicate that a gluteal warm-up can enhance force production in squat jumps performed after 8 minutes recovery. Future research in this area should include additional warm-up intervention groups for comparative reasons.}, }
@article {pmid26232613, year = {2015}, author = {Rensel, MA and Ellis, JM and Harvey, B and Schlinger, BA}, title = {Sex, estradiol, and spatial memory in a food-caching corvid.}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {75}, number = {}, pages = {45-54}, pmid = {26232613}, issn = {1095-6867}, support = {R01 MH061994/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; NIMH061994//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Estradiol/*blood/pharmacology ; *Feeding Behavior/drug effects ; Female ; Food ; Hippocampus/drug effects ; Male ; Passeriformes/blood/*physiology ; *Predatory Behavior/drug effects ; Sex Factors ; Songbirds/physiology ; *Spatial Memory/drug effects ; Testosterone/blood ; }, abstract = {Estrogens significantly impact spatial memory function in mammalian species. Songbirds express the estrogen synthetic enzyme aromatase at relatively high levels in the hippocampus and there is evidence from zebra finches that estrogens facilitate performance on spatial learning and/or memory tasks. It is unknown, however, whether estrogens influence hippocampal function in songbirds that naturally exhibit memory-intensive behaviors, such as cache recovery observed in many corvid species. To address this question, we examined the impact of estradiol on spatial memory in non-breeding Western scrub-jays, a species that routinely participates in food caching and retrieval in nature and in captivity. We also asked if there were sex differences in performance or responses to estradiol. Utilizing a combination of an aromatase inhibitor, fadrozole, with estradiol implants, we found that while overall cache recovery rates were unaffected by estradiol, several other indices of spatial memory, including searching efficiency and efficiency to retrieve the first item, were impaired in the presence of estradiol. In addition, males and females differed in some performance measures, although these differences appeared to be a consequence of the nature of the task as neither sex consistently out-performed the other. Overall, our data suggest that a sustained estradiol elevation in a food-caching bird impairs some, but not all, aspects of spatial memory on an innate behavioral task, at times in a sex-specific manner.}, }
@article {pmid26228635, year = {2015}, author = {Ramonaitė, S and Novoslavskij, A and Zakarienė, G and Aksomaitienė, J and Malakauskas, M}, title = {High Prevalence and Genetic Diversity of Campylobacter jejuni in Wild Crows and Pigeons.}, journal = {Current microbiology}, volume = {71}, number = {5}, pages = {559-565}, pmid = {26228635}, issn = {1432-0991}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Biodiversity ; Campylobacter jejuni/*classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Columbidae/*microbiology ; Crows/*microbiology ; *Genetic Variation ; Molecular Typing ; Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {The occurrence, seasonal variation and genetic diversity of Campylobacter spp. in pigeons and crows over a 1-year period were evaluated. Campylobacter spp. were isolated from 166 (34.6 %) out of 480 wild bird faecal samples. The occurrence of Campylobacter spp. in faecal samples was higher among crows (39.2 %) than pigeons (30.0 %), (P < 0.05). Campylobacter jejuni was the most common species detected among wild bird faecal samples (98.2 %). Meanwhile, Campylobacter coli prevalence in wild bird faecal samples was low-6 %. The Simpson's diversity index of C. jejuni flaA RFLP types was lower in pigeons (D = 0.88) compared with C. jejuni isolates detected in crows (D = 0.97). Obtained results revealed that C. jejuni are widely prevalent among crows and pigeons, indicating these wild birds as potential infection sources to humans. Further studies are required to determine crows and pigeons role in zoonotic transmission of Campylobacter.}, }
@article {pmid26220786, year = {2018}, author = {Umar, MU and Obindo, JT and Omigbodun, OO}, title = {Prevalence and Correlates of ADHD Among Adolescent Students in Nigeria.}, journal = {Journal of attention disorders}, volume = {22}, number = {2}, pages = {116-126}, doi = {10.1177/1087054715594456}, pmid = {26220786}, issn = {1557-1246}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*epidemiology/*psychology ; Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Nigeria/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Risk Factors ; Students/*psychology/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence and psychosocial correlates of ADHD among adolescents in Jos, Nigeria.<br><br>METHOD: A cross-sectional descriptive two-stage study of 487 randomly selected participants using Kiddie-Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia-Present and Lifetime Version (K-SADS-PL), Raven's Standard Progressive Matrix (SPM) and the Children's Global Assessment Score (CGAS).<br><br>RESULTS: The prevalence of ADHD was 8.8%. The subtypes found were inattentive (3.08%), hyperactive-impulsive (2.05%), and combined (3.08%); male:female ratio of 1.4:1. ADHD was significantly associated with use of substance by father (odds ratio [OR] = 0.35; 95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.154, 0.781]), use of substance by mother (OR = 0.2; 95% CI = [0.055, 0.711]), and lower education of mother (OR = 0.3 95% CI = [0.116, 0.693]). Poor quality of handwriting (&#x3c7;[2] = 8.120; p = .010) and impaired global functioning (t test = 10.756; p < .001) were significantly associated with ADHD in the adolescents.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Given the burden of ADHD, efforts should be made to establish a system for the early identification and management.}, }
@article {pmid26220669, year = {2015}, author = {Romiti, F and Tini, M and Redolfi De Zan, L and Chiari, S and Zauli, A and Carpaneto, GM}, title = {Exaggerated allometric structures in relation to demographic and ecological parameters in Lucanus cervus (Coleoptera: Lucanidae).}, journal = {Journal of morphology}, volume = {276}, number = {10}, pages = {1193-1204}, doi = {10.1002/jmor.20411}, pmid = {26220669}, issn = {1097-4687}, mesh = {Animals ; Coleoptera/*anatomy &amp; histology ; *Ecosystem ; Male ; Mandible/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Organ Size ; }, abstract = {Enlarged weapons and ornamental traits under sexual selection often show a positive allometric relationship with the overall body size. The present study explores the allometry of mandibles and their supporting structure, the head, in males of the European stag beetle, Lucanus cervus. This species shows a remarkable dimorphism in mandible shape and size that are used by males in intraspecific combats. Stag beetles were captured, measured, weighed, and released in the framework of a capture-mark-recapture study. The relationship of mandible length (ML) and head width in respect to the overall body size was described by a segmented regression model. A linear relationship was detected between ML and head width. The scaling relationships for both ML and head width identified the same switchpoint, highlighting the advantages of using combined results of weapons and their supporting structures in such analysis. These results led to a more consistent distinction of males in two morphologies: minor and major. The survival probability of individuals was dependent on the morphological class and was higher for minor males than for major. Elytron length and body mass of the individuals did not show any significant variation during the season. Differences in predatory pressure were detected between morphs by the collection and analysis of body fragments due to the predatory activity of corvids. Morphological differences and shift in demographic and ecological parameters between the two classes suggested that selection continues to favor intrasexual dimorphism in this species throughout a trade-off mechanism between costs and benefits of carrying exaggerated traits.}, }
@article {pmid26218728, year = {2015}, author = {Rivers, JK and Bertucci, V and McGillivray, W and Muhn, C and Rosen, N and Solish, N and Weichman, BM and Wheeler, S and Daniels, SR and Gallagher, CJ}, title = {Subject satisfaction with onabotulinumtoxinA treatment of glabellar and lateral canthal lines using a new patient-reported outcome measure.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {41}, number = {8}, pages = {950-959}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000000424}, pmid = {26218728}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Acetylcholine Release Inhibitors/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Cosmetic Techniques ; Double-Blind Method ; Esthetics ; Eye ; Female ; Forehead ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Patient Outcome Assessment ; *Patient Satisfaction ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; *Surveys and Questionnaires ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Patient satisfaction with treatment is an important outcome in facial aesthetic medicine.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate subject satisfaction with onabotulinumtoxinA treatment of glabellar lines (GL) and crow's feet lines (CFL) using the validated Facial Line Satisfaction Questionnaire (FLSQ).<br><br>METHODS: In this randomized double-blind study, subjects with moderate/severe GL and CFL received onabotulinumtoxinA (20 U, GL; 24 U, CFL) or placebo. Over 120 days, the following were assessed: satisfaction, achievement of treatment expectations, satisfaction with duration of treatment (FLSQ), severity of GL and CFL (Facial Wrinkle Scale [FWS]), and aesthetic improvement (Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale).<br><br>RESULTS: Satisfaction in the per-protocol population was significantly greater at Day 60 in the onabotulinumtoxinA group (n = 60) compared with placebo (n = 57) for GL (81.7% vs 0%; p < .001). Most subjects treated with onabotulinumtoxinA remained satisfied up to 120 days. Achievement of treatment expectations (86.7%; Day 60), satisfaction (81.7%; Day 60), and satisfaction with the duration of treatment (61.6%; Day 90) were significantly better with onabotulinumtoxinA than placebo (p < .001) for GL and CFL combined. Efficacy (FWS) and aesthetic improvement were observed in most subjects at Days 30 and 60, respectively.<br><br>CONCLUSION: High satisfaction rates are achieved and sustained in subjects treated with onabotulinumtoxinA for GL and CFL combined.}, }
@article {pmid26216752, year = {2015}, author = {Nordberg, A and Dahlgren Sandberg, A and Miniscalco, C}, title = {Story retelling and language ability in school-aged children with cerebral palsy and speech impairment.}, journal = {International journal of language &amp; communication disorders}, volume = {50}, number = {6}, pages = {801-813}, doi = {10.1111/1460-6984.12177}, pmid = {26216752}, issn = {1460-6984}, mesh = {Aptitude ; Cerebral Palsy/*diagnosis/psychology/*therapy ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Comprehension ; Disability Evaluation ; Female ; Humans ; Language Disorders/*diagnosis/psychology/*therapy ; Male ; *Mental Recall ; *Narration ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Quality of Life/psychology ; Speech Disorders/*diagnosis/psychology/*therapy ; *Verbal Behavior ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Research on retelling ability and cognition is limited in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and speech impairment.<br><br>AIMS: To explore the impact of expressive and receptive language, narrative discourse dimensions (Narrative Assessment Profile measures), auditory and visual memory, theory of mind (ToM) and non-verbal cognition on the retelling ability of children with CP and speech impairment.<br><br>METHODS &amp; PROCEDURES: Fifteen speaking children with speech impairment (seven girls, eight boys) (mean age = 11 years, SD = 1;4 years), and different types of CP and different levels of gross motor and cognitive function participated in the present study. Story retelling skills were tested and analysed with the Bus Story Test (BST) and the Narrative Assessment Profile (NAP). Receptive language ability was tested with the Test for Reception of Grammar-2 (TROG-2) and the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test - IV (PPVT-IV). Non-verbal cognitive level was tested with the Raven's coloured progressive matrices (RCPM), memory functions assessed with the Corsi block-tapping task (CB) and the Digit Span from the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-III. ToM was assessed with the false belief items of the two story tests "Kiki and the Cat" and "Birthday Puppy".<br><br>OUTCOMES &amp; RESULTS: The children had severe problems with retelling ability corresponding to an age-equivalent of 5;2-6;9 years. Receptive and expressive language, visuo-spatial and auditory memory, non-verbal cognitive level and ToM varied widely within and among the children. Both expressive and receptive language correlated significantly with narrative ability in terms of NAP total scores, so did auditory memory.<br><br>CONCLUSION &amp; IMPLICATIONS: The results suggest that retelling ability in the children with CP in the present study is dependent on language comprehension and production, and memory functions. Consequently, it is important to examine retelling ability together with language and cognitive abilities in these children in order to provide appropriate support.}, }
@article {pmid26204803, year = {2015}, author = {Tamaru, M and Yamaki, S and Jimenez, LA and Sato, H}, title = {Morphological and molecular genetic characterization of three Capillaria spp. (Capillaria anatis, Capillaria pudendotecta, and Capillaria madseni) and Baruscapillaria obsignata (Nematoda: Trichuridae: Capillariinae) in avians.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {114}, number = {11}, pages = {4011-4022}, pmid = {26204803}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; Capillaria/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/ultrastructure ; Chickens/*parasitology ; DNA, Ribosomal/chemistry/genetics ; Female ; Japan/epidemiology ; Male ; Molecular Sequence Data ; *Nematoda/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/ultrastructure ; Nematode Infections/epidemiology/parasitology/*veterinary ; Philippines/epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; Poultry Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA/veterinary ; }, abstract = {Morphological and genetic analyses were performed on four avian species of the subfamily Capillariinae (Nematoda: Trichuridae), i.e., Capillaria anatis from chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) in Japan and the Philippines, Baruscapillaria obsignata from chickens and captive swans (Cygnus olor and Cygnus atratus) in Japan, Capillaria pudendotecta from captive swans in Japan, and Capillaria madseni from carrion and jungle crows (Corvus corone and Corvus macrorhynchos) in Japan. Although morphometric variations of male and female worms from different hosts and/or localities made the species identification difficult, the 18S ribosomal RNA gene (rDNA) sequences clarified their taxonomic position and phylogenetic relationships. Species of the same genus clustered robustly into a single clade in the phylogenetic tree based on the 18S rDNA, demonstrating to the extent possible the validity of the latest classification of the subfamily following Moravec's rearrangement in 1982. Male worms of C. pudendotecta are described here for the first time.}, }
@article {pmid26203594, year = {2015}, author = {Shimmura, T and Ohashi, S and Yoshimura, T}, title = {The highest-ranking rooster has priority to announce the break of dawn.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {11683}, pmid = {26203594}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Chickens/*physiology ; Male ; *Social Dominance ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The "cock-a-doodle-doo" crowing of roosters, which symbolizes the break of dawn in many cultures, is controlled by the circadian clock. When one rooster announces the break of dawn, others in the vicinity immediately follow. Chickens are highly social animals, and they develop a linear and fixed hierarchy in small groups. We found that when chickens were housed in small groups, the top-ranking rooster determined the timing of predawn crowing. Specifically, the top-ranking rooster always started to crow first, followed by its subordinates, in descending order of social rank. When the top-ranking rooster was physically removed from a group, the second-ranking rooster initiated crowing. The presence of a dominant rooster significantly reduced the number of predawn crows in subordinates. However, the number of crows induced by external stimuli was independent of social rank, confirming that subordinates have the ability to crow. Although the timing of subordinates' predawn crowing was strongly dependent on that of the top-ranking rooster, free-running periods of body temperature rhythms differed among individuals, and crowing rhythm did not entrain to a crowing sound stimulus. These results indicate that in a group situation, the top-ranking rooster has priority to announce the break of dawn, and that subordinate roosters are patient enough to wait for the top-ranking rooster's first crow every morning and thus compromise their circadian clock for social reasons.}, }
@article {pmid26203268, year = {2015}, author = {Ghimeray, AK and Jung, US and Lee, HY and Kim, YH and Ryu, EK and Chang, MS}, title = {In vitro antioxidant, collagenase inhibition, and in vivo anti-wrinkle effects of combined formulation containing Punica granatum, Ginkgo biloba, Ficus carica, and Morus alba fruits extract.}, journal = {Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {389-396}, pmid = {26203268}, issn = {1178-7015}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In phytotherapy, the therapeutic potential is based on the combined action of different herbal drugs. Our objective was to evaluate the antioxidant, anti-collagenase (in vitro), and anti-wrinkle (in vivo) effect of combined formulation containing Ginkgo biloba, Punica granatum, Ficus carica, and Morus alba fruits extract.<br><br>METHODS: Antioxidant evaluation was based on the scavenging activity of free radicals (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, H2O2, and O2 (-)) and the anti-collagenase activity was based on the reduction of collagenase enzyme in vitro. In an in vivo study, 21 female subjects were examined in a placebo-controlled trail. Facial wrinkle, especially the crow's feet region of eyes, was treated with topical formulated 2% cream for 56 days and compared with the placebo.<br><br>RESULTS: In the in vitro study, the combination of fruits extract showed a higher antioxidant activity which was comparable with the positive standard (ascorbic acid, butylated hydroxyanisole, and Trolox). The data also showed a dose-dependent inhibition of collagenase. In the in vivo study, treatment with 2% formulated cream for 56 days significantly reduced the percentage of wrinkle depth, length, and area with 11.5, 10.07, and 29.55, respectively.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The combined formulation of fruit extracts showed excellent antioxidative and anti-collagenase activity as well as a significant effect on anti-wrinkle activity on human skin.}, }
@article {pmid26197093, year = {2015}, author = {Lim, SM and Brault, AC and van Amerongen, G and Bosco-Lauth, AM and Romo, H and Sewbalaksing, VD and Bowen, RA and Osterhaus, AD and Koraka, P and Martina, BE}, title = {Susceptibility of Carrion Crows to Experimental Infection with Lineage 1 and 2 West Nile Viruses.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {21}, number = {8}, pages = {1357-1365}, pmid = {26197093}, issn = {1080-6059}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*mortality/virology ; Crows/*immunology/virology ; Disease Susceptibility/*mortality ; Virulence/immunology ; West Nile Fever/*mortality/virology ; West Nile virus/classification/genetics/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) outbreaks in North America have been characterized by substantial die-offs of American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos). In contrast, a low incidence of bird deaths has been observed during WNV epidemic activity in Europe. To examine the susceptibility of the western European counterpart of American crows, we inoculated carrion crows (Corvus corone) with WNV strains isolated in Greece (Gr-10), Italy (FIN and Ita09), and Hungary (578/10) and with the highly virulent North American genotype strain (NY99). We also inoculated American crows with a selection of these strains to examine the strains' virulence in a highly susceptible bird species. Infection with all strains, except WNV FIN, resulted in high rates of death and high-level viremia in both bird species and virus dissemination to several organs. These results suggest that carrion crows are highly susceptible to WNV and may potentially be useful as part of dead bird surveillance for early warning of WNV activity in Europe.}, }
@article {pmid26194675, year = {2015}, author = {Câmara-Costa, H and Resch, A and Kieffer, V and Lalande, C and Poggi, G and Kennedy, C and Bull, K and Calaminus, G and Grill, J and Doz, F and Rutkowski, S and Massimino, M and Kortmann, RD and Lannering, B and Dellatolas, G and Chevignard, M and , }, title = {Neuropsychological Outcome of Children Treated for Standard Risk Medulloblastoma in the PNET4 European Randomized Controlled Trial of Hyperfractionated Versus Standard Radiation Therapy and Maintenance Chemotherapy.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {92}, number = {5}, pages = {978-985}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijrobp.2015.04.023}, pmid = {26194675}, issn = {1879-355X}, support = {//Cancer Research UK/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Age Factors ; Analysis of Variance ; Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/therapeutic use ; Cerebellar Neoplasms/drug therapy/psychology/*radiotherapy ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cisplatin/administration &amp; dosage ; Cognition/drug effects/physiology/*radiation effects ; Cognition Disorders ; Confidence Intervals ; Craniospinal Irradiation/methods ; Dose Fractionation, Radiation ; Europe ; Executive Function/physiology/radiation effects ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/physiology/*radiation effects ; Intelligence Tests ; Lomustine/administration &amp; dosage ; Maintenance Chemotherapy/methods ; Male ; Medulloblastoma/drug therapy/psychology/*radiotherapy ; Memory/physiology/radiation effects ; Prospective Studies ; Regression Analysis ; Vincristine/administration &amp; dosage ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: In the European HIT-SIOP PNET4 randomized controlled trial, children with standard risk medulloblastoma were allocated to hyperfractionated radiation therapy (HFRT arm, including a partially focused boost) or standard radiation therapy (STRT arm), followed, in both arms, by maintenance chemotherapy. Event-free survival was similar in both arms. Previous work showed that the HFRT arm was associated with worse growth and better questionnaire-based executive function, especially in children <8 years of age at diagnosis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare performance-based cognitive outcomes between treatment arms.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: Neuropsychological data were collected prospectively in 137 patients. Using the Wechsler Intelligence Scales, Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children, and Raven's Progressive Matrices, we estimated full-scale intelligence quotient (FSIQ) and, when available, verbal IQ (VIQ), performance IQ (PIQ), working memory index (WMI), and processing speed index (PSI).<br><br>RESULTS: Among the 137 participants (HFRT arm n=71, STRT arm n=66, 63.5% males), mean (&#xb1;SD) ages at diagnosis and assessment respectively were 9.3 (&#xb1;3.2) years of age (40.8%&#xa0;<&#xa0;8&#xa0;years of age at diagnosis) and 14.6 (&#xb1;4.3) years of age. Mean (&#xb1;SD) FSIQ was 88 (&#xb1;19), and mean intergroup difference was 3.88 (95% confidence interval: -2.66 to 10.42, P=.24). No significant differences were found in children >8&#xa0;years of age at diagnosis. In children <8&#xa0;years of age at diagnosis, a marginally significant trend toward higher VIQ was found in those treated in the HFRT arm; a similar trend was found for PSI but not for PIQ, WMI, or FSIQ (mean intergroup differences were: 12.02 for VIQ [95% CI: 2.37-21.67; P=.02]; 3.77 for PIQ [95% CI: -5.19 to 12.74; P>.10]; 5.20 for WMI [95% CI: -2.07 to 12.47; P>.10]; 10.90 for PSI [95% CI: -1.54 to 23.36; P=.08]; and 5.28 for FSIQ [95% CI: -4.23 to 14.79; P>.10]).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: HFRT was associated with marginally higher VIQ in children <8&#xa0;years of age at diagnosis, consistent with a previous report using questionnaire-based data. However, overall cognitive ability was not significantly different.}, }
@article {pmid26193673, year = {2015}, author = {Ode, M and Asaba, A and Miyazawa, E and Mogi, K and Kikusui, T and Izawa, E}, title = {Sex-reversed correlation between stress levels and dominance rank in a captive non-breeder flock of crows.}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {73}, number = {}, pages = {131-134}, doi = {10.1016/j.yhbeh.2015.07.012}, pmid = {26193673}, issn = {1095-6867}, mesh = {Aggression/physiology ; Animal Husbandry ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Corticosterone/analysis/metabolism ; Crows/metabolism/*physiology ; Feces/chemistry ; Female ; Glucocorticoids/analysis/metabolism ; Male ; Sex Characteristics ; Sex Factors ; *Social Dominance ; *Stress, Psychological/physiopathology/psychology ; }, abstract = {Group living has both benefits and costs to individuals; benefits include efficient acquisition of resources, and costs include stress from social conflicts among group members. Such social challenges result in hierarchical dominance ranking among group members as a solution to avoid escalating conflict that causes different levels of basal stress between individuals at different ranks. Stress-associated glucocorticoid (corticosterone in rodents and birds; CORT) levels are known to correlate with dominance rank in diverse taxa and to covary with various social factors, such as sex and dominance maintenance styles. Although there is much evidence for sex differences in the basal levels of CORT in various species, the correlation of sex differences in basal CORT with dominance rank is poorly understood. We investigated the correlation between CORT metabolites (CM) in the droppings and social factors, including rank and sex, in a captive non-breeder group of crows. In this group, all the single males dominated all the single females, and dominance ranks were stable among single males but relatively unstable among single females. CM levels and rank were significantly correlated in a sex-reversed fashion: males at higher rank (i.e., more dominant) had higher CM, whereas females at higher rank exhibited lower CM. This is the first evidence of sex-reversed patterns of CM-rank correlation in birds. The results suggest that different mechanisms of stress-dominance relationships operate on the sexes in non-breeder crow aggregations; in males, stress is associated with the cost of aggressive displays, whereas females experience subordination stress due to males' overt aggression.}, }
@article {pmid26192825, year = {2015}, author = {Correia, CM and Jackson, K and Véran, JP and Andersen, D and Lardière, O and Bradley, C}, title = {Spatio-angular minimum-variance tomographic controller for multi-object adaptive-optics systems.}, journal = {Applied optics}, volume = {54}, number = {17}, pages = {5281-5290}, doi = {10.1364/AO.54.005281}, pmid = {26192825}, issn = {1539-4522}, abstract = {Multi-object astronomical adaptive optics (MOAO) is now a mature wide-field observation mode to enlarge the adaptive-optics-corrected field in a few specific locations over tens of arcminutes. The work-scope provided by open-loop tomography and pupil conjugation is amenable to a spatio-angular linear-quadratic-Gaussian (SA-LQG) formulation aiming to provide enhanced correction across the field with improved performance over static reconstruction methods and less stringent computational complexity scaling laws. Starting from our previous work [J. Opt. Soc. Am. A31, 101 (2014)10.1364/JOSAA.31.000101JOAOD61084-7529], we use stochastic time-progression models coupled to approximate sparse measurement operators to outline a suitable SA-LQG formulation capable of delivering near optimal correction. Under the spatio-angular framework the wavefronts are never explicitly estimated in the volume, providing considerable computational savings on 10-m-class telescopes and beyond. We find that for Raven, a 10-m-class MOAO system with two science channels, the SA-LQG improves the limiting magnitude by two stellar magnitudes when both the Strehl ratio and the ensquared energy are used as figures of merit. The sky coverage is therefore improved by a factor of ~5.}, }
@article {pmid26192654, year = {2015}, author = {Liao, SF and Yao, CY and Lee, CC}, title = {Measuring and modeling the inconspicuous iridescence of Formosan blue magpie's feather (Urocissacaerulea).}, journal = {Applied optics}, volume = {54}, number = {16}, pages = {4979-4983}, doi = {10.1364/AO.54.004979}, pmid = {26192654}, issn = {1539-4522}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Colorimetry/*methods ; Computer Simulation ; Feathers/*chemistry/*ultrastructure ; *Models, Biological ; Models, Chemical ; Refractometry/*methods ; Skin Pigmentation ; }, abstract = {The iridescence of the blue feathers of the Formosan blue magpie (Urocissacaerulea) is not conspicuous when the viewing angle is less than 40°. The spongy medullary keratin inside the feather barbs is investigated by two-dimensional Fourier analysis of transmission electron microscopic images of various positions on a barb to explain this unique characteristic. The orientation of the quasi-ordered nanostructure varies depending on its position of the feather barb. The predicted reflectance increases with the distance of the nanostructures from the vertex of the feather barb, and this result agrees closely with measurements.}, }
@article {pmid26192213, year = {2015}, author = {Cacho, NI and Kliebenstein, DJ and Strauss, SY}, title = {Macroevolutionary patterns of glucosinolate defense and tests of defense-escalation and resource availability hypotheses.}, journal = {The New phytologist}, volume = {208}, number = {3}, pages = {915-927}, doi = {10.1111/nph.13561}, pmid = {26192213}, issn = {1469-8137}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Brassicaceae/*genetics/metabolism ; *Ecosystem ; Glucosinolates/*metabolism ; Herbivory ; *Secologanin Tryptamine Alkaloids ; Soil/chemistry ; }, abstract = {We explored macroevolutionary patterns of plant chemical defense in Streptanthus (Brassicaceae), tested for evolutionary escalation of defense, as predicted by Ehrlich and Raven's plant-herbivore coevolutionary arms-race hypothesis, and tested whether species inhabiting low-resource or harsh environments invest more in defense, as predicted by the resource availability hypothesis (RAH). We conducted phylogenetically explicit analyses using glucosinolate profiles, soil nutrient analyses, and microhabitat bareness estimates across 30 species of Streptanthus inhabiting varied environments and soils. We found weak to moderate phylogenetic signal in glucosinolate classes and no signal in total glucosinolate production; a trend toward evolutionary de-escalation in the numbers and diversity of glucosinolates, accompanied by an evolutionary increase in the proportion of aliphatic glucosinolates; some support for the RAH relative to soil macronutrients, but not relative to serpentine soil use; and that the number of glucosinolates increases with microhabitat bareness, which is associated with increased herbivory and drought. Weak phylogenetic signal in chemical defense has been observed in other plant systems. A more holistic approach incorporating other forms of defense might be necessary to confidently reject escalation of defense. That defense increases with microhabitat bareness supports the hypothesis that habitat bareness is an underappreciated selective force on plants in harsh environments.}, }
@article {pmid26190856, year = {2015}, author = {Tranmer, M and Marcum, CS and Morton, FB and Croft, DP and de Kort, SR}, title = {Using the relational event model (REM) to investigate the temporal dynamics of animal social networks.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {101}, number = {}, pages = {99-105}, pmid = {26190856}, issn = {0003-3472}, support = {Z01 HG200335/ImNIH/Intramural NIH HHS/United States ; Z99 HG999999/ImNIH/Intramural NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Social dynamics are of fundamental importance in animal societies. Studies on nonhuman animal social systems often aggregate social interaction event data into a single network within a particular time frame. Analysis of the resulting network can provide a useful insight into the overall extent of interaction. However, through aggregation, information is lost about the order in which interactions occurred, and hence the sequences of actions over time. Many research hypotheses relate directly to the sequence of actions, such as the recency or rate of action, rather than to their overall volume or presence. Here, we demonstrate how the temporal structure of social interaction sequences can be quantified from disaggregated event data using the relational event model (REM). We first outline the REM, explaining why it is different from other models for longitudinal data, and how it can be used to model sequences of events unfolding in a network. We then discuss a case study on the European jackdaw, Corvus monedula, in which temporal patterns of persistence and reciprocity of action are of interest, and present and discuss the results of a REM analysis of these data. One of the strengths of a REM analysis is its ability to take into account different ways in which data are collected. Having explained how to take into account the way in which the data were collected for the jackdaw study, we briefly discuss the application of the model to other studies. We provide details of how the models may be fitted in the R statistical software environment and outline some recent extensions to the REM framework.}, }
@article {pmid26183691, year = {2015}, author = {Iuliano, E and di Cagno, A and Aquino, G and Fiorilli, G and Mignogna, P and Calcagno, G and Di Costanzo, A}, title = {Effects of different types of physical activity on the cognitive functions and attention in older people: A randomized controlled study.}, journal = {Experimental gerontology}, volume = {70}, number = {}, pages = {105-110}, doi = {10.1016/j.exger.2015.07.008}, pmid = {26183691}, issn = {1873-6815}, mesh = {Aged ; Attention/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognitive Dysfunction/physiopathology/psychology/*rehabilitation ; Exercise Test/methods ; Exercise Therapy/*methods ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Motor Activity/physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Postural Balance/physiology ; Resistance Training/methods ; }, abstract = {This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different types of exercise on cognition. Eighty participants, 32 males and 48 females, aged 66.96 ± 11.73, volunteered for this study. The participants were randomly divided into the four following groups: Resistance Group (RG; n=20), involved in high intensity strength training; Cardiovascular Group (CVG; n=20), involved in high intensity cardiovascular training; Postural Group (PG; n=20) involved in low intensity training, based on postural and balance exercises; and Control Group (CG; n=20). Exercises were performed over the course of 12 weeks. All participants were tested for their cognitive functions pre- and post-intervention using the following neurocognitive tests: the Attentive Matrices Test, Raven's Progressive Matrices, Stroop Color and Word Interference Test, Trail Making Test and Drawing Copy Test. Statistical analysis showed that the CVG group improved significantly in the Attentive Matrices Test and Raven's Progressive Matrices (both p=<0.05), whereas the RG group improved in Drawing Copy Test time (p=<0.05). These results confirm that different types of exercise interventions have unique effects on cognition. Cardiovascular training is effective in improving performance attentive and analytic tasks, whereas resistance training is effective in improving praxis. Further investigation is necessary to evaluate the combination of the two exercise types in order to ascertain if their respective effects can be summated when performed together.}, }
@article {pmid26178550, year = {2015}, author = {Zouaghi, K and Fatma, LB and Hajri, S and Khedher, R and Krid, M and Smaoui, W and Béji, S and Rais, L and Moussa, FB}, title = {Kidney involvement in Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {Saudi journal of kidney diseases and transplantation : an official publication of the Saudi Center for Organ Transplantation, Saudi Arabia}, volume = {26}, number = {4}, pages = {751-756}, doi = {10.4103/1319-2442.160201}, pmid = {26178550}, issn = {1319-2442}, abstract = {Crow-Fukase syndrome, also known as POEMS syndrome, is a rare plasma dyscrasia characterized by monoclonal gammopathy and various combinations of polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy and dermatological changes, and their initials stand for the acronym POEMS. Substantial kidney involvement is rarely related to this disease. Our report is about five patients suffering from the POEMS syndrome with kidney involvement that rapidly progressed to end-stage renal disease. Our report is about three females and two males with a mean age of 60.6 years. Neuropathy was noted in all the cases. Endocrinopathy included hypothyroidism and/or diabetes. Skin changes were noted in one case, and included peri-orbital hyperpigmentation. Monoclonal gammopathy was present in all the cases and was related to multiple myeloma in three cases. Kidney involvement presented in all the five cases. Treatment included Melphalan, Thalidomid, steroids and hemodialysis. Survival was short for three patients, from five to 34 months.}, }
@article {pmid26175703, year = {2015}, author = {Massen, JJ and Lambert, M and Schiestl, M and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Subadult ravens generally don't transfer valuable tokens to conspecifics when there is nothing to gain for themselves.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {885}, pmid = {26175703}, issn = {1664-1078}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {The extent to which humans help each other is extraordinary in itself, and difficult to explain from an evolutionary perspective. Therefore, there has been a recent surge in studies investigating the evolution of prosocial behavior using a comparative approach. Nevertheless, most of these studies have focused on primates only, and little is known about other animal orders. In a previous study, common ravens (Corvus corax) have been shown to be indifferent to the gains of conspecifics. However, this may have been due to the experimental set-up, as many studies that use different set-ups report conflicting results within the same species. We therefore tested ravens' prosocial tendencies in a different set-up; i.e., we tested whether sub-adult ravens would transfer a token to a partner and, thereby, provide the partner with the opportunity to exchange a token for a reward. To control and test for effects of partner identity, we tested eight individuals both in a dyadic and in a group setting. Our results show that in general the ravens in our experiment did not show other-regarding preferences. However, some acts of helping did occur spontaneously. We discuss what could be the causes for those sporadic instances, and why in general prosocial tendencies were found to be almost lacking among the ravens in this set-up.}, }
@article {pmid26163067, year = {2016}, author = {Zarbo, IR and Minacapelli, E and Falautano, M and Demontis, S and Carpentras, G and Pugliatti, M}, title = {Personality traits predict perceived health-related quality of life in persons with multiple sclerosis.}, journal = {Multiple sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England)}, volume = {22}, number = {4}, pages = {551-558}, doi = {10.1177/1352458515594045}, pmid = {26163067}, issn = {1477-0970}, mesh = {Adult ; Anxiety/psychology ; Anxiety Disorders/psychology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Depressive Disorder, Major/psychology ; Extraversion, Psychological ; Female ; *Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Multiple Sclerosis/diagnosis/*psychology ; Neuroticism ; *Perception ; *Personality ; Personality Assessment ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; *Quality of Life ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Personality traits can affect health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in different disorders. In multiple sclerosis (MS), personality traits can determine patients' willingness to take on more risky treatment options, predispose to neuropsychiatric symptoms and affect coping strategies.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: We investigated the role of personality traits as possible predictors of HRQoL in a large cohort of persons with MS (PwMS).<br><br>METHODS: In total, 253 consecutively recruited PwMS were screened for intellectual deficits with Raven Colour Progressive Matrices (RCPM), state anxiety with STAI-X1 and major depression on a clinical basis. PwMS' self-perceived mental and physical health status was measured with the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and the personality profile with the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ-R). The correlation between HRQoL and personality traits was investigated by means of analysis of variance, adjusting for possible confounders.<br><br>RESULTS: Of the 253 MS patients, 195 (F:M=2.75), aged 41.7&#xb1;10.2 years were included in the analysis. The variance of SF-36 mental and physical composite score was largely explained by extraversion and neuroticism.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our data confirm that PwMS' HRQoL is largely influenced by personality traits, which may therefore act as predictors of perceived quality of life and should be included in clinical and experimental settings focusing on HRQoL.}, }
@article {pmid26158071, year = {2014}, author = {Gong, Y and Hu, D and Hannaford, B and Seibel, EJ}, title = {Accurate three-dimensional virtual reconstruction of surgical field using calibrated trajectories of an image-guided medical robot.}, journal = {Journal of medical imaging (Bellingham, Wash.)}, volume = {1}, number = {3}, pages = {035002}, pmid = {26158071}, issn = {2329-4302}, support = {R01 EB016457/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Brain tumor margin removal is challenging because diseased tissue is often visually indistinguishable from healthy tissue. Leaving residual tumor leads to decreased survival, and removing normal tissue causes life-long neurological deficits. Thus, a surgical robotics system with a high degree of dexterity, accurate navigation, and highly precise resection is an ideal candidate for image-guided removal of fluorescently labeled brain tumor cells. To image, we developed a scanning fiber endoscope (SFE) which acquires concurrent reflectance and fluorescence wide-field images at a high resolution. This miniature flexible endoscope was affixed to the arm of a RAVEN II surgical robot providing programmable motion with feedback control using stereo-pair surveillance cameras. To verify the accuracy of the three-dimensional (3-D) reconstructed surgical field, a multimodal physical-sized model of debulked brain tumor was used to obtain the 3-D locations of residual tumor for robotic path planning to remove fluorescent cells. Such reconstruction is repeated intraoperatively during margin clean-up so the algorithm efficiency and accuracy are important to the robotically assisted surgery. Experimental results indicate that the time for creating this 3-D surface can be reduced to one-third by using known trajectories of a robot arm, and the error from the reconstructed phantom is within 0.67 mm in average compared to the model design.}, }
@article {pmid26142691, year = {2015}, author = {Yoo, I and Woo, JM and Lee, SH and Fava, M and Mischoulon, D and Papakostas, GI and Kim, EJ and Chung, S and Ha, JH and Jeon, HJ}, title = {Influence of anxiety symptoms on improvement of neurocognitive functions in patients with major depressive disorder: A 12-week, multicenter, randomized trial of tianeptine versus escitalopram, the CAMPION study.}, journal = {Journal of affective disorders}, volume = {185}, number = {}, pages = {24-30}, doi = {10.1016/j.jad.2015.06.038}, pmid = {26142691}, issn = {1573-2517}, mesh = {Antidepressive Agents/therapeutic use ; Anxiety Disorders/complications/*drug therapy/*psychology ; Citalopram/*therapeutic use ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Depressive Disorder, Major/complications/*drug therapy/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Republic of Korea ; Thiazepines/*therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Previous research has reported evidence that patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) show anxiety symptoms and neurocognitive impairments. However, the influence of anxiety on neurocognitive function in MDD patients during antidepressant treatment is unclear.<br><br>METHOD: MDD patients (n=164) completed a 12-week, multicenter, randomized trial assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either tianeptine or escitalopram. Changes of anxiety symptoms were assessed by the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), self-rated subjective cognitive impairment on memory and concentration, the Mini-Mental Status Examination (MMSE), Continuous Performance Test (CPT), Verbal Learning Test (VLT), and Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM) were assessed every 4 weeks.<br><br>RESULTS: During 12 weeks of treatment, decrease in the HAM-A score was significantly associated with improvement of subjective cognitive impairments on memory (p<0.001) and concentration (p<0.001), and objective measures on delayed memory (p=0.006) and reasoning ability (p=0.002), after adjusting for covariates such as baseline HAM-A scores, time, sex, age, education years and assigned medication using the Mixed effects and Generalized Estimated Equation model analysis. However, the other cognitive outcome variables, immediate memory, commission error, and MMSE, which showed significant improvement through 12-week study period, showed no significant association with improvement of anxiety.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Improvement of anxiety symptoms was significantly associated with improvement in subjective and objective neurocognitive functions such as delayed memory and reasoning ability in elderly MDD patients during antidepressant treatment, but not significantly associated with improvement of immediate memory and commission error.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01309776.}, }
@article {pmid26140018, year = {2015}, author = {Hoch, PC and Wagner, WL and Raven, PH}, title = {The correct name for a section of Ludwigia L. (Onagraceae).}, journal = {PhytoKeys}, volume = {}, number = {50}, pages = {31-34}, pmid = {26140018}, issn = {1314-2011}, abstract = {In 1953, Hara provided new combinations for many sectional and species names when he combined Jussiaea L. with Ludwigia L., and at the time, Ludwigiasect.Oligospermum (Micheli) H.Hara was the correct name for one well-defined section. However, subsequent changes to/clarifications of the botanical code have necessitated a change for that name in that now an autonym is treated as having priority over the name or names of the same date and rank that established it. Since Hara's combination was based on Jussiaeasect.Oligospermum Micheli, the correct name for this section is Ludwigiasect.Jussiaea (L.) Hoch, W.L.Wagner, &amp; P.H.Raven.}, }
@article {pmid26125257, year = {2015}, author = {Song, JH and Zhang, GB and Ding, XD and Huang, L and Hong, Y and Chen, HX}, title = {Efficacy of type a botulinum toxin injections and infrared polarized light on treating chronic migraine.}, journal = {European review for medical and pharmacological sciences}, volume = {19}, number = {11}, pages = {1976-1982}, pmid = {26125257}, issn = {2284-0729}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Chronic Disease ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Disability Evaluation ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Infrared Rays/therapeutic use ; Injections ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Migraine Disorders/*drug therapy/*radiotherapy ; Nimodipine/therapeutic use ; Quality of Life ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical value of the combination of ultrasound-and-hyponome-guided type A botulinum toxin injection and infrared polarized light on treating chronic migraine.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: Ninety-one patients with chronic migraine were randomly divided into four groups: in the control group (group A, 22 cases in total), nimodipine was used in the treatment of chronic migraine for two months; in the infrared polarized light therapy group (group B, 22 cases in total), infrared polarized light was adopted in the treatment of chronic migraine for 50-60d; in the botulinum toxin treatment group (group C, 24 cases in total), ultrasound-and-hyponome-guided type A botulinum toxin was injected into frontal, temporal, and occipital muscles in treating chronic migraine; in the joint treatment group (group D, 23 cases in total), ultrasound-and-hyponome-guided type A botulinum toxin injection in group C and infrared polarized light in group B were both used here in the treatment of chronic migraine. Infrared polarized light therapy lasted 50-60d and the time of study lasted six months. The survey would include the conditions of patients with chronic migraine three months before treatment and at one, three and six months after treatment. Patients were asked to fill the MIDAS (migraine disability assessment questionnaire) and were graded on the evaluation scale of life quality, so that the researchers would be able to compare attack frequency, duration of attack, attack severity, the use of painkillers and their recovery from chronic migraine, and then observe their adverse reactions.<br><br>RESULTS: Eleven cases dropped out during the treatment, three cases in A group, two cases in group B, four cases in group C and two cases in group D. One, three and six months after treatment, the MIDAS scores in group A, B, C and D were significantly lower than before the treatment. Hence, the differences were statistically significant (p < 0.01). The scores in quality of life rating scale were significantly higher than pre-treatment scores, so the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.01). The MIDAS scores and quality of life rating scale scores in group D were compared with those in group A, B, and C respectively, and the differences were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Two patients were recorded with dizziness, and the dizziness disappeared after two weeks with no treatments at all. Forehead lines and crow's feet of 21 patients shallowed or disappeared in varying degrees after the injection.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The combination of ultrasound-and-hyponome-guided type A botulinum toxin injection and infrared polarized light on treating chronic migraine demonstrated a significant clinical effect.}, }
@article {pmid26115863, year = {2015}, author = {Hasan, B and Olsen, B and Alam, A and Akter, L and Melhus, &#xc5;}, title = {Dissemination of the multidrug-resistant extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli O25b-ST131 clone and the role of house crow (Corvus splendens) foraging on hospital waste in Bangladesh.}, journal = {Clinical microbiology and infection : the official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, volume = {21}, number = {11}, pages = {1000.e1-4}, doi = {10.1016/j.cmi.2015.06.016}, pmid = {26115863}, issn = {1469-0691}, mesh = {Animals ; Bangladesh ; Crows/*physiology ; Disease Reservoirs ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial ; Enterobacter cloacae/classification/enzymology/isolation &amp; purification ; Enterobacteriaceae Infections/microbiology/transmission/*veterinary ; Escherichia coli/*classification/enzymology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Feces/microbiology ; Feeding Behavior ; *Genotype ; Hospitals ; Humans ; Klebsiella pneumoniae/classification/enzymology/isolation &amp; purification ; *Medical Waste Disposal ; beta-Lactamases/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Two hundred and thirty-eight faecal samples from crows foraging on hospital wastes were analysed for extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae. ESBL-producing crow isolates were characterized and compared with 31 patient isolates. Among the crows, 59% carried ESBL producers. These included Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Raoultella terrigena and Enterobacter cloacae harbouring the genes for CTX-M-1, CTX-M-15, CTX-M-55, CTX-M-79, and CTX-M-14. Human isolates carried only the CTX-M-15 gene. Two-thirds of crow E. coli isolates and all human E. coli isolates were multidrug resistant. Crows and patients shared E. coli sequence types, including the epidemic E. coli O25b-ST131 clone. The scavenging behaviour of crows at poorly managed hospital waste dumps made them potential reservoirs of antibiotic resistance, including ESBLs.}, }
@article {pmid26113073, year = {2015}, author = {Merinville, E and Grennan, GZ and Gillbro, JM and Mathieu, J and Mavon, A}, title = {Influence of facial skin ageing characteristics on the perceived age in a Russian female population.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {37 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {3-8}, doi = {10.1111/ics.12252}, pmid = {26113073}, issn = {1468-2494}, mesh = {Adult ; *Age Factors ; Aged ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Russia ; *Skin Aging ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The desire for a youthful look remains a powerful motivator in the purchase of cosmetics by women globally. To develop an anti-ageing solution that targets the need of end consumers, it is critical to understand which signs of ageing really matter to them and which influence their age perception. To date, such research has not been performed in a Russian population. The aim of this work was to identify the signs of ageing that contribute the most to an 'older' or 'younger' look for Russian women aged 40 years old and above.<br><br>METHODS: The age of 203 Russian female volunteers was estimated from their standard photographs by a total of 629 female na&#xef;ve assessors aged 20-65 years old. Perceived age data were related to 23 facial skin features previously measured using linear correlation coefficients. Differences in average severity of the correlating skin ageing features were evaluated between women perceived older and women perceived younger than their chronological age. Volunteers' responses to a ranking question on their key ageing skin concerns previously collected were analysed to provide an additional view on facial ageing from the consumer perspective.<br><br>RESULTS: Nine facial skin ageing features were found to correlate the most with perceived age out of the 23 measured. Such results showed the importance of wrinkles in the upper part of the face (crow's feet, glabellar, under eye and forehead wrinkles), but also wrinkles in the lower half of the face associated with facial sagging (upper lip, nasolabial fold). Sagging was confirmed of key importance to female volunteers aged 41-65 years old who were mostly concerned by the sagging of their jawline, ahead of under eye and crow's feet wrinkle. The severity of hyperpigmented spots, red and brown, was also found to contribute to perceived age although to a weaker extent.<br><br>CONCLUSION: By providing a clear view on the signs of ageing really matter to Russian women who are aged 40 years old and above, this research offers key information for the development of relevant anti-ageing solutions specifically targeting their needs and their desire to achieve younger-looking skin.}, }
@article {pmid26109322, year = {2015}, author = {Soler, JJ and Ruiz Castellano, C and Martínez-de la Puente, J and Tomás, G and Ruiz-Rodríguez, M and Figuerola, J}, title = {Telomere dynamics in parasitic great spotted cuckoos and their magpie hosts.}, journal = {Journal of evolutionary biology}, volume = {28}, number = {9}, pages = {1610-1617}, doi = {10.1111/jeb.12680}, pmid = {26109322}, issn = {1420-9101}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Host-Parasite Interactions/genetics ; Passeriformes/*parasitology ; Species Specificity ; Telomere Homeostasis ; *Telomere Shortening ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Although little is known on the impact of environment on telomere length dynamics, it has been suggested to be affected by stress, lifestyle and/or life-history strategies of animals. We here compared telomere dynamics in erythrocytes of hatchlings and fledglings of the brood parasite great spotted cuckoos (Clamator glandarius) and of magpies (Pica pica), their main host in Europe. In magpie chicks, telomere length decreased from hatching to fledging, whereas no significant change in telomere length of great spotted cuckoo chicks was found. Moreover, we found interspecific differences in the association between laying date and telomere shortening. Interspecific differences in telomere shortening were interpreted as a consequence of differences in lifestyle and life-history characteristics of magpies and great spotted cuckoos. In comparison with magpies, cuckoos experience reduced sibling competition and higher access to resources and, consequently, lower stressful environmental conditions during the nestling phase. These characteristics also explain the associations between telomere attrition and environmental conditions (i.e. laying date) for magpies and the absence of association for great spotted cuckoos. These results therefore fit expectations on telomere dynamics derived from interspecific differences in lifestyle and life history of brood parasites and their bird hosts.}, }
@article {pmid26102190, year = {2015}, author = {Cipolotti, L and Healy, C and Chan, E and MacPherson, SE and White, M and Woollett, K and Turner, M and Robinson, G and Spanò, B and Bozzali, M and Shallice, T}, title = {The effect of age on cognitive performance of frontal patients.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {75}, number = {}, pages = {233-241}, pmid = {26102190}, issn = {1873-3514}, support = {MR/K026992/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; 089231/A/09/Z//Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Brain/pathology ; Brain Neoplasms/pathology/*psychology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/*pathology ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Retrospective Studies ; Stroke/pathology/*psychology ; Stroop Test ; }, abstract = {Age is known to affect prefrontal brain structure and executive functioning in healthy older adults, patients with neurodegenerative conditions and TBI. Yet, no studies appear to have systematically investigated the effect of age on cognitive performance in patients with focal lesions. We investigated the effect of age on the cognitive performance of a large sample of tumour and stroke patients with focal unilateral, frontal (n=68), or non-frontal lesions (n=45) and healthy controls (n=52). We retrospectively reviewed their cross sectional cognitive and imaging data. In our frontal patients, age significantly predicted the magnitude of their impairment on two executive tests (Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices, RAPM and the Stroop test) but not on nominal (Graded Naming Test, GNT) or perceptual (Incomplete Letters) task. In our non-frontal patients, age did not predict the magnitude of their impairment on the RAPM and GNT. Furthermore, the exacerbated executive impairment observed in our frontal patients manifested itself from middle age. We found that only age consistently predicted the exacerbated executive impairment. Lesions to specific frontal areas, or an increase in global brain atrophy or white matter abnormalities were not associated with this impairment. Our results are in line with the notion that the frontal cortex plays a critical role in aging to counteract cognitive and neuronal decline. We suggest that the combined effect of aging and frontal lesions impairs the frontal cortical systems by causing its computational power to fall below the threshold needed to complete executive tasks successfully.}, }
@article {pmid26097282, year = {2015}, author = {Miller, R and Bugnyar, T and Pölzl, K and Schwab, C}, title = {Differences in exploration behaviour in common ravens and carrion crows during development and across social context.}, journal = {Behavioral ecology and sociobiology}, volume = {69}, number = {7}, pages = {1209-1220}, pmid = {26097282}, issn = {0340-5443}, abstract = {Exploration is particularly important for young animals, as it enables them to learn to exploit their surroundings. It is likely to be affected by species ecology and social context, though there are few comparative, longitudinal studies that control for effects of early experience. Here, we investigated group level exploration behaviour in two closely related and identically reared, generalist corvid species: common ravens (Corvus corax) and carrion crows (C. corone, C. cornix), during development and across social context. Subjects were repeatedly presented with a range of novel items, whilst alone and in a dyad/ subgroup, at the fledging (1-2 months old), juvenile (3-8 months old) and sub-adult (14-18 months old) stages. Whilst alone, they were also presented with a novel and familiar person, at the fledging and juvenile stages. We expected developmental differences and a facilitating influence of social context on exploration. Developmental differences were present, with both species interacting most frequently with novel items as juveniles, which may relate to major developmental steps, such as dispersal and a neophobia increase as sub-adults. When a conspecific(s) was present, subjects generally interacted more frequently, though took longer to interact, with novel items. Additionally, we found unexpected species differences, with the most striking difference being the crows' significantly lower rate of interaction with the novel person, though not the familiar person; a species difference that was present from fledging. We discuss these findings by relating to potential differences in the two species ecology and behaviour, such as habitat use and caching proficiency.}, }
@article {pmid26092393, year = {2016}, author = {Van de Weijer-Bergsma, E and Kroesbergen, EH and Jolani, S and Van Luit, JE}, title = {The Monkey game: A computerized verbal working memory task for self-reliant administration in primary school children.}, journal = {Behavior research methods}, volume = {48}, number = {2}, pages = {756-771}, pmid = {26092393}, issn = {1554-3528}, mesh = {Achievement ; Child ; Female ; *Games, Experimental ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Mathematics/education ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Online Systems ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; Reading ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Verbal Learning ; }, abstract = {In two studies, the psychometric properties of an online self-reliant verbal working memory task (the Monkey game) for primary school children (6-12 years of age) were examined. In Study 1, children (n = 5,203) from 31 primary schools participated. The participants completed computerized verbal and visual-spatial working memory tasks (i.e., the Monkey game and the Lion game) and a paper-and-pencil version of Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. Reading comprehension and math achievement test scores were obtained from the schools. First, the internal consistency of the Monkey game was examined. Second, multilevel modeling was used to examine the effects of classroom membership. Multilevel multivariate regression analysis was used to examine the Monkey game's concurrent relationship with the Lion game and its predictive relationships with reading comprehension and math achievement. Also, age-related differences in performance were examined. In Study 2, the concurrent relationships between the Monkey game and two tester-led computerized working memory tasks were further examined (n = 140). Also, the 1- and 2-year stability of the Monkey game was investigated. The Monkey game showed excellent internal consistency, good concurrent relationships with the other working memory measures, and significant age differences in performance. Performance on the Monkey game was also predictive of subsequent reading comprehension and mathematics performance, even after controlling for individual differences in intelligence. Performance on the Monkey game was influenced by classroom membership. The Monkey game is a reliable and suitable instrument for the online computerized and self-reliant assessment of verbal working memory in primary school children.}, }
@article {pmid26089436, year = {2015}, author = {Bergan, JF}, title = {Neural Computation and Neuromodulation Underlying Social Behavior.}, journal = {Integrative and comparative biology}, volume = {55}, number = {2}, pages = {268-280}, doi = {10.1093/icb/icv061}, pmid = {26089436}, issn = {1557-7023}, mesh = {Animals ; Invertebrates/*physiology ; *Nervous System Physiological Phenomena ; *Social Behavior ; Vertebrates/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Social behaviors are as diverse as the animals that employ them, with some behaviors, like affiliation and aggression, expressed in nearly all social species. Whether discussing a "family" of beavers or a "murder" of crows, the elaborate language we use to describe social animals immediately hints at patterns of behavior typical of each species. Neuroscience has now revealed a core network of regions of the brain that are essential for the production of social behavior. Like the behaviors themselves, neuromodulation and hormonal changes regulate the underlying neural circuits on timescales ranging from momentary events to an animal's lifetime. Dynamic and heavily interconnected social circuits provide a distinct challenge for developing a mechanistic understanding of social behavior. However, advances in neuroscience continue to generate an explanation of social behavior based on the electrical activity and synaptic connections of neurons embedded in defined neural circuits.}, }
@article {pmid26087161, year = {2015}, author = {Clayton, NS and Emery, NJ}, title = {Avian Models for Human Cognitive Neuroscience: A Proposal.}, journal = {Neuron}, volume = {86}, number = {6}, pages = {1330-1342}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuron.2015.04.024}, pmid = {26087161}, issn = {1097-4199}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Brain/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Humans ; Models, Animal ; *Neurosciences ; }, abstract = {Research on avian cognitive neuroscience over the past two decades has revealed the avian brain to be a better model for understanding human cognition than previously thought, despite differences in the neuroarchitecture of avian and mammalian brains. The brain, behavior, and cognition of songbirds have provided an excellent model of human cognition in one domain, namely learning human language and the production of speech. There are other important behavioral candidates of avian cognition, however, notably the capacity of corvids to remember the past and plan for the future, as well as their ability to think about another's perspective, and physical reasoning. We review this work and assess the evidence that the corvid brain can support such a cognitive architecture. We propose potential applications of these behavioral paradigms for cognitive neuroscience, including recent work on single-cell recordings and neuroimaging in corvids. Finally, we discuss their impact on understanding human developmental cognition.}, }
@article {pmid26084679, year = {2015}, author = {Obozova, T and Smirnova, A and Zorina, Z and Wasserman, E}, title = {Analogical reasoning in amazons.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {18}, number = {6}, pages = {1363-1371}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-015-0882-0}, pmid = {26084679}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Amazona/*physiology ; Animals ; *Choice Behavior ; Concept Formation ; *Discrimination, Psychological ; Female ; Male ; *Thinking ; }, abstract = {Two juvenile orange-winged amazons (Amazona amazonica) were initially trained to match visual stimuli by color, shape, and number of items, but not by size. After learning these three identity matching-to-sample tasks, the parrots transferred discriminative responding to new stimuli from the same categories that had been used in training (other colors, shapes, and numbers of items) as well as to stimuli from a different category (stimuli varying in size). In the critical testing phase, both parrots exhibited reliable relational matching-to-sample (RMTS) behavior, suggesting that they perceived and compared the relationship between objects in the sample stimulus pair to the relationship between objects in the comparison stimulus pairs, even though no physical matches were possible between items in the sample and comparison pairs. The parrots spontaneously exhibited this higher-order relational responding without having ever before been trained on RMTS tasks, therefore joining apes and crows in displaying this abstract cognitive behavior.}, }
@article {pmid26075478, year = {2016}, author = {Krzeminska, U and Wilson, R and Rahman, S and Song, BK and Seneviratne, S and Gan, HM and Austin, CM}, title = {Mitochondrial genomes of the jungle crow Corvus macrorhynchos (Passeriformes: Corvidae) from shed feathers and a phylogenetic analysis of genus Corvus using mitochondrial protein-coding genes.}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part A, DNA mapping, sequencing, and analysis}, volume = {27}, number = {4}, pages = {2668-2670}, doi = {10.3109/19401736.2015.1043540}, pmid = {26075478}, issn = {2470-1408}, mesh = {Animals ; Feathers/metabolism/physiology ; Genome, Mitochondrial/*genetics ; Passeriformes/classification/*genetics ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; RNA, Transfer/genetics ; }, abstract = {The complete mitochondrial genomes of two jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) were sequenced. DNA was extracted from tissue samples obtained from shed feathers collected in the field in Sri Lanka and sequenced using the Illumina MiSeq Personal Sequencer. Jungle crow mitogenomes have a structural organization typical of the genus Corvus and are 16,927 bp and 17,066 bp in length, both comprising 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, 2 ribosomal subunit genes, and a non-coding control region. In addition, we complement already available house crow (Corvus spelendens) mitogenome resources by sequencing an individual from Singapore. A phylogenetic tree constructed from Corvidae family mitogenome sequences available on GenBank is presented. We confirm the monophyly of the genus Corvus and propose to use complete mitogenome resources for further intra- and interspecies genetic studies.}, }
@article {pmid26067282, year = {2015}, author = {Wascher, CA and Hillemann, F and Canestrari, D and Baglione, V}, title = {Carrion crows learn to discriminate between calls of reliable and unreliable conspecifics.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {18}, number = {5}, pages = {1181-1185}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-015-0879-8}, pmid = {26067282}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Attention ; Crows/*physiology ; *Discrimination Learning ; Discrimination, Psychological ; Female ; Male ; Social Behavior ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Partner choice on the basis of an individual's reliability is expected to stabilize social interactions. In this experiment, we tested whether carrion crows (Corvus corone corone) learn to differentiate between calls of reliable or unreliable individuals. Crows were kept in an aviary that comprised four visually but not acoustically isolated compartments, separated by a central room. In an association phase, a dead crow placed in the central compartment was visible only to one of the four crow groups, whilst alert calls of a conspecific were played back. Therefore, these calls were reliable for that group, but unreliable for the three other groups. The procedure was repeated, using a different reliable caller for each group. In two test sessions, 1 month apart, reliable and unreliable model individuals were played back, but no dead crow was presented. We quantified birds' attention behaviour and the number of vocalisations emitted. In the association phase, crows were more attentive towards the reliable compared with the unreliable stimuli and called more in response to reliable compared to unreliable individuals. In the test and repeat phase, attention behaviour did not differ between reliability conditions, but the pattern of vocal behaviour reversed, with crows calling less frequent when listening to reliable compared with unreliable calls. Vocal responses of crows suggest that they can discriminate between reliable and unreliable callers.}, }
@article {pmid26062431, year = {2016}, author = {González-Mariscal, G and Caba, M and Martínez-Gómez, M and Bautista, A and Hudson, R}, title = {Mothers and offspring: The rabbit as a model system in the study of mammalian maternal behavior and sibling interactions.}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {77}, number = {}, pages = {30-41}, doi = {10.1016/j.yhbeh.2015.05.011}, pmid = {26062431}, issn = {1095-6867}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Suckling/*physiology ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Circadian Rhythm/*physiology ; Female ; Maternal Behavior/*physiology ; Pregnancy ; Rabbits/*physiology ; *Siblings ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: This article is part of a Special Issue "Parental Care". Jay Rosenblatt effectively promoted research on rabbit maternal behavior through his interaction with colleagues in Mexico. Here we review the activities of pregnant and lactating rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), their neuro-hormonal regulation, and the synchronization of behavior between mother and kits. Changing concentrations of estradiol, progesterone, and prolactin throughout gestation regulate nest-building (digging, straw-carrying, fur-pulling) and prime the mother's brain to respond to the newborn. Nursing is the only mother-young contact throughout lactation. It happens once/day, inside the nest, with ca. 24h periodicity, and lasts around 3min. Periodicity and duration of nursing depend on a threshold of suckling as procedures reducing the amount of nipple stimulation interfere with the temporal aspects of nursing, though not with the doe's maternal motivation. Synchronization between mother and kits, critical for nursing, relies on: a) the production of pheromonal cues which guide the young to the mother's nipples for suckling; b) an endogenous circadian rhythm of anticipatory activity in the young, present since birth. Milk intake entrains the kits' locomotor behavior, corticosterone secretion, and the activity of several brain structures. Sibling interactions within the huddle, largely determined by body mass at birth, are important for: a) maintaining body temperature; b) ensuring normal neuromotor and social development. Suckling maintains nursing behavior past the period of abundant milk production but abrupt and efficient weaning occurs in concurrently pregnant-lactating does by unknown factors.<br><br>CONCLUSION: female rabbits have evolved a reproductive strategy largely dissociating maternal care from maternal presence, whose multifactorial regulation warrants future investigations.}, }
@article {pmid26056278, year = {2015}, author = {Ditz, HM and Nieder, A}, title = {Neurons selective to the number of visual items in the corvid songbird endbrain.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {112}, number = {25}, pages = {7827-7832}, pmid = {26056278}, issn = {1091-6490}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain/cytology/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neurons/*physiology ; }, abstract = {It is unknown whether anatomical specializations in the endbrains of different vertebrates determine the neuronal code to represent numerical quantity. Therefore, we recorded single-neuron activity from the endbrain of crows trained to judge the number of items in displays. Many neurons were tuned for numerosities irrespective of the physical appearance of the items, and their activity correlated with performance outcome. Comparison of both behavioral and neuronal representations of numerosity revealed that the data are best described by a logarithmically compressed scaling of numerical information, as postulated by the Weber-Fechner law. The behavioral and neuronal numerosity representations in the crow reflect surprisingly well those found in the primate association cortex. This finding suggests that distantly related vertebrates with independently developed endbrains adopted similar neuronal solutions to process quantity.}, }
@article {pmid26041615, year = {2015}, author = {Keller, J and Gorges, M and Horn, HT and Aho-Özhan, HE and Pinkhardt, EH and Uttner, I and Kassubek, J and Ludolph, AC and Lulé, D}, title = {Eye-tracking controlled cognitive function tests in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a controlled proof-of-principle study.}, journal = {Journal of neurology}, volume = {262}, number = {8}, pages = {1918-1926}, pmid = {26041615}, issn = {1432-1459}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/complications/*diagnosis ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/etiology ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Eye Movement Measurements/*standards ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/*standards ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; }, abstract = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) primarily affects motor and speech abilities. In addition, cognitive functions are impaired in a subset of patients. There is a need to establish an eye movement-based method of neuropsychological assessment suitable for severely physically impaired patients with ALS. Forty-eight ALS patients and thirty-two healthy controls matched for age, sex and education performed a hand and speech motor-free version of the Raven's coloured progressive matrices (CPM) and the D2-test which had been especially adapted for eye-tracking control. Data were compared to a classical motor-dependent paper-pencil version. The association of parameters of the eye-tracking and the paper-pencil version of the tests and the differences between and within groups were studied. Subjects presented similar results in the eye-tracking and the corresponding paper-pencil versions of the CPM and D2-test: a correlation between performance accuracy for the CPM was observed for ALS patients (p < 0.001) and controls (p < 0.001) and in the D2-test for controls (p = 0.048), whereas this correlation did not reach statistical significance for ALS patients (p = 0.096). ALS patients performed worse in the CPM than controls in the eye-tracking (p = 0.053) and the paper-pencil version (p = 0.042). Most importantly, eye-tracking versions of the CPM (p < 0.001) and the D2-test (p = 0.024) reliably distinguished between more and less cognitively impaired patients. Eye-tracking-based neuropsychological testing is a promising approach for assessing cognitive deficits in patients who are unable to speak or write such as patients with severe ALS.}, }
@article {pmid26031635, year = {2015}, author = {Baur, LH and Schreurs, WM and van Leeuwen-Wintjes, HR and Berendsen, CL and Willems, R and Winkens, RA and Vliegen, R and Theunissen, P and Gomez Garcia, EB}, title = {A white raven detected by imaging.}, journal = {Netherlands heart journal : monthly journal of the Netherlands Society of Cardiology and the Netherlands Heart Foundation}, volume = {23}, number = {7-8}, pages = {402-404}, pmid = {26031635}, issn = {1568-5888}, abstract = {The purpose of this case report is to describe a rare case of a patient with a phaeochromocytoma with several cardiovascular complications, which can be attributed to the tumour. Detection of a phaeochromocytoma sometimes needs a 'Sherlock Holmes spirit' or simply time.}, }
@article {pmid26030086, year = {2015}, author = {Haapala, EA and Lintu, N and Väistö, J and Robinson, LE and Viitasalo, A and Lindi, V and Lakka, TA}, title = {Associations of Physical Performance and Adiposity with Cognition in Children.}, journal = {Medicine and science in sports and exercise}, volume = {47}, number = {10}, pages = {2166-2174}, doi = {10.1249/MSS.0000000000000652}, pmid = {26030086}, issn = {1530-0315}, mesh = {Adiposity/*physiology ; *Cardiovascular Physiological Phenomena ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Exercise Test ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Motor Activity/*physiology ; Motor Skills/*physiology ; Muscle Strength ; Muscle, Skeletal/physiology ; *Respiratory Physiological Phenomena ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To investigate the independent and combined associations of cardiorespiratory performance (CP), neuromuscular performance (NP; including motor performance [MP]) and body fat percentage (BF%) with cognition in children.<br><br>METHODS: The participants were 202 boys and 201 girls age 6-8 yr. Cardiorespiratory performance was assessed using maximal cycle ergometer test and was expressed as maximal workload per lean body mass. Neuromuscular performance score included muscle strength, speed, agility, balance, manual dexterity, and flexibility; and MP included speed and agility, balance, and manual dexterity. Body fat percentage was assessed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Cognition was assessed using Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM). Linear regression and general linear models were used to analyze the independent and combined associations of CP, NP, MP, and BF% with Raven CPM score.<br><br>RESULTS: Neuromuscular performance and MP were directly associated with the Raven CPM score (&#x3b2; = 0.138-0.190; P < 0.01). Children in the lowest or the highest thirds of BF% and in the lowest third of MP had a lower Raven CPM score than other children (P < 0.05). Children in the lowest or highest third of BF% along with the poorest MP had a lower Raven CPM score than those in the middle third of BF% and higher MP (P < 0.05). These associations and differences were much stronger in boys than in girls. Cardiorespiratory performance was not related to the Raven CPM score.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Poorer NP and MP were associated with a worse cognition in children and particularly in boys. Cognition was poorer especially among children with the lowest or highest BF% accompanied with a poorer MP.}, }
@article {pmid27547298, year = {2015}, author = {Rutz, C and Morrissey, MB and Burns, ZT and Burt, J and Otis, B and St Clair, JJ and James, R}, title = {Calibrating animal-borne proximity loggers.}, journal = {Methods in ecology and evolution}, volume = {6}, number = {6}, pages = {656-667}, pmid = {27547298}, issn = {2041-210X}, abstract = {Growing interest in the structure and dynamics of animal social networks has stimulated efforts to develop automated tracking technologies that can reliably record encounters in free-ranging subjects. A particularly promising approach is the use of animal-attached 'proximity loggers', which collect data on the incidence, duration and proximity of spatial associations through inter-logger radio communication. While proximity logging is based on a straightforward physical principle - the attenuation of propagating radio waves with distance - calibrating systems for field deployment is challenging, since most study species roam across complex, heterogeneous environments.In this study, we calibrated a recently developed digital proximity-logging system ('Encounternet') for deployment on a wild population of New Caledonian crows Corvus moneduloides. Our principal objective was to establish a quantitative model that enables robust post hoc estimation of logger-to-logger (and, hence, crow-to-crow) distances from logger-recorded signal-strength values. To achieve an accurate description of the radio communication between crow-borne loggers, we conducted a calibration exercise that combines theoretical analyses, field experiments, statistical modelling, behavioural observations, and computer simulations.We show that, using signal-strength information only, it is possible to assign crow encounters reliably to predefined distance classes, enabling powerful analyses of social dynamics. For example, raw data sets from field-deployed loggers can be filtered at the analysis stage to include predominantly encounters where crows would have come to within a few metres of each other, and could therefore have socially learned new behaviours through direct observation. One of the main challenges for improving data classification further is the fact that crows - like most other study species - associate across a wide variety of habitats and behavioural contexts, with different signal-attenuation properties.Our study demonstrates that well-calibrated proximity-logging systems can be used to chart social associations of free-ranging animals over a range of biologically meaningful distances. At the same time, however, it highlights that considerable efforts are required to conduct study-specific system calibrations that adequately account for the biological and technological complexities of field deployments. Although we report results from a particular case study, the basic rationale of our multi-step calibration exercise applies to many other tracking systems and study species.}, }
@article {pmid26025292, year = {2015}, author = {Huang, M and Nichols, T and Huang, C and Yu, Y and Lu, Z and Knickmeyer, RC and Feng, Q and Zhu, H and , }, title = {FVGWAS: Fast voxelwise genome wide association analysis of large-scale imaging genetic data.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {118}, number = {}, pages = {613-627}, pmid = {26025292}, issn = {1095-9572}, support = {UL1 TR001111/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; U01 AG024904/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 TR002489/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; MH092335/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; 1UL1TR001111/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH086633/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; 100309//Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; MH086633/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R21 AG033387/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; TL1 TR001110/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH092335/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Brain/*physiology ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease ; Genome-Wide Association Study/*methods ; Genotype ; Humans ; *Software ; }, abstract = {More and more large-scale imaging genetic studies are being widely conducted to collect a rich set of imaging, genetic, and clinical data to detect putative genes for complexly inherited neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Several major big-data challenges arise from testing genome-wide (NC>12 million known variants) associations with signals at millions of locations (NV~10(6)) in the brain from thousands of subjects (n~10(3)). The aim of this paper is to develop a Fast Voxelwise Genome Wide Association analysiS (FVGWAS) framework to efficiently carry out whole-genome analyses of whole-brain data. FVGWAS consists of three components including a heteroscedastic linear model, a global sure independence screening (GSIS) procedure, and a detection procedure based on wild bootstrap methods. Specifically, for standard linear association, the computational complexity is O (nNVNC) for voxelwise genome wide association analysis (VGWAS) method compared with O ((NC+NV)n(2)) for FVGWAS. Simulation studies show that FVGWAS is an efficient method of searching sparse signals in an extremely large search space, while controlling for the family-wise error rate. Finally, we have successfully applied FVGWAS to a large-scale imaging genetic data analysis of ADNI data with 708 subjects, 193,275voxels in RAVENS maps, and 501,584 SNPs, and the total processing time was 203,645s for a single CPU. Our FVGWAS may be a valuable statistical toolbox for large-scale imaging genetic analysis as the field is rapidly advancing with ultra-high-resolution imaging and whole-genome sequencing.}, }
@article {pmid26021223, year = {2015}, author = {Grandi, T and Guazzi, P and Samarani, R and Tohme, H and Khoury, S and Sbricoli, L and Grandi, G and Esposito, M}, title = {Immediate, early (3 weeks) and conventional loading (4 months) of single implants: Preliminary data at 1 year after loading from a pragmatic multicenter randomised controlled trial.}, journal = {European journal of oral implantology}, volume = {8}, number = {2}, pages = {115-126}, pmid = {26021223}, issn = {1756-2406}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Alveolar Bone Loss/etiology ; Alveolar Ridge Augmentation/methods ; Bone Density/physiology ; Bone Substitutes/therapeutic use ; Crowns ; Dental Abutments ; Dental Implantation, Endosseous/methods ; *Dental Implants, Single-Tooth ; Dental Prosthesis, Implant-Supported ; Dental Restoration Failure ; Dental Restoration, Temporary ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; *Immediate Dental Implant Loading ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Minerals/therapeutic use ; Radiography, Bitewing ; Tooth Socket/surgery ; Torque ; Treatment Outcome ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To compare the clinical outcome of single implants which underwent immediate nonocclusal loading with implants subjected to early non-occlusal loading at 3 weeks, and implants conventionally loaded at 4 months.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and five patients in five private practices requiring a single implant-supported crown were randomised to immediate loading (35 patients), early loading (35 patients) and conventional loading (35 patients) groups. To be immediately or early loaded, implants had to be inserted with a torque superior to 45 Ncm. Immediately and early loaded implants received non-occluding temporary crows, whereas conventionally loaded implants were directly restored with definitive crowns. Temporary crowns were replaced by definitive ones after 4 months. Outcome measures were crown and implant failures, complications and peri-implant marginal bone level changes recorded by a blinded assessor.<br><br>RESULTS: Two patients dropped out from the immediate loading group up to 1-year post-loading. Two implants failed, one in the immediately loaded and one in the early loaded group (P=0.601). One immediately loaded implant and two early loaded implants were affected by one complication each (P=0.162). Mean peri-implant marginal bone loss after 1 year was -0.120&#xb1;0.230 mm (95% CI -0.35, 0.10) for immediate, -0.390&#xb1;0.840 mm (95% CI -1.23, 0.45) for early and -0.201&#xb1;0.306 mm (95% CI -0.51; 0.11) for conventionally loaded implants. There were no statistically significant differences for any of the outcome measures between the three loading strategies up to 1-year post-loading.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: No major clinical differences were observed with regard to implant survival, complications and marginal bone level changes when loading single implants immediately, early or conventionally.}, }
@article {pmid26010196, year = {2015}, author = {Jelbert, SA and Taylor, AH and Gray, RD}, title = {Reasoning by exclusion in New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides) cannot be explained by avoidance of empty containers.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {129}, number = {3}, pages = {283-290}, doi = {10.1037/a0039313}, pmid = {26010196}, issn = {1939-2087}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/*psychology ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Choice Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Thinking/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Whether animals can reason or merely learn associatively is a long-standing debate. Researchers have approached this question by investigating whether dogs, birds, and primates can reason by exclusion (choosing by logically excluding all other alternatives). However, these studies have not resolved whether animals are capable of inferring which option is rewarded or are merely avoiding options known to be incorrect. Here, we used a forced-choice tubes task, where strategies of "reasoning by exclusion" and "avoidance of empty containers" predicted different responses. Two tubes (1 straight, 1 bent) were presented in 5 types of orientation, varying whether the rewarded location could be inferred. We compared predictions from both strategies with the observed performance of 8 wild-caught New Caledonian crows. Two of the 8 birds' choices were entirely consistent with reasoning by exclusion only. A further 4 birds followed a mixed strategy, where both reasoning and avoidance could have influenced their decisions. Thus, although avoidance plays a role, it cannot fully explain the crows' choices. Confirming how animals naturally solve problems is increasingly important in animal cognition; we demonstrate that NC crows can inferentially reason without explicit training, but, like humans, most do not rely solely on reasoning to make decisions.}, }
@article {pmid26005474, year = {2015}, author = {Moeini, M and Khaleghi, A and Mohammadi, MR}, title = {Characteristics of Alpha Band Frequency in Adolescents with Bipolar II Disorder: A Resting-State QEEG Study.}, journal = {Iranian journal of psychiatry}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {8-12}, pmid = {26005474}, issn = {1735-4587}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the QEEG of adolescents affected by bipolar II disorder with age and gender matched healthy controls, and to extract the characteristics of the alpha frequency band to better understand this disorder.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty one adolescents affected by acute episodes of bipolar II disorder (BMD II), both hypomanic and depressive episodes, were selected via convenience sampling based on DSM IV criteria and child and adolescent psychiatrist diagnosis. Eleven patients were going through a hypomanic episode and 10 patients were going through a depression episode. Of the participants, 18 who were matched with the patient group participated in this study as a normal group. Any major comorbidities and intellectual disabilities were excluded through applying K-SADS-PL and Raven's IQ test for all the patients and the healthy participants. Electroencephalogram signals were obtained according to 10-20 international system by 21 electrodes from participants in open and closed eyes in a resting state. We selected 40 seconds length segments from each recorded EEG signals that had minimal noise and artifacts. Power spectrum density (PSD) was estimated for each segment and extracted alpha band frequency. We used only referential (unipolar) montage for comparison. Eventually, data were analyzed by independent Mann-Whitney test and independent t test.<br><br>RESULTS: We observed significant differences in the alpha frequency band in some brain regions. Alpha power increased in the fronto-central region and right parietal lobe in the patients (P < 0.05). In the patients with BMD II, entropy of alpha oscillations was larger than the normal participants in the central region and in the F3, F4 and P4 channels. Also, there were differences in the variance of alpha oscillations in these regions between the two groups (P < 0.05). In the occipital lobe, alpha wave had different skewness between the two groups (P < 0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Thalamus as a generator and modulator of at least a part of alpha oscillations may be involved in this disorder and hence this explains the major symptoms like distractibility and inattention in both hypomanic and depressive episodes of bipolar II disorder.}, }
@article {pmid26005029, year = {2015}, author = {Semenov, YS and Novozhilov, AS}, title = {Exact solutions for the selection-mutation equilibrium in the Crow-Kimura evolutionary model.}, journal = {Mathematical biosciences}, volume = {266}, number = {}, pages = {1-9}, doi = {10.1016/j.mbs.2015.05.002}, pmid = {26005029}, issn = {1879-3134}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; *Gene Frequency ; *Models, Biological ; *Mutation ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {We reformulate the eigenvalue problem for the selection-mutation equilibrium distribution in the case of a haploid asexually reproduced population in the form of an equation for an unknown probability generating function of this distribution. The special form of this equation in the infinite sequence limit allows us to obtain analytically the steady state distributions for a number of particular cases of the fitness landscape. The general approach is illustrated by examples; theoretical findings are compared with numerical calculations.}, }
@article {pmid25996934, year = {2015}, author = {Ronfani, L and Vecchi Brumatti, L and Mariuz, M and Tognin, V and Bin, M and Ferluga, V and Knowles, A and Montico, M and Barbone, F}, title = {The Complex Interaction between Home Environment, Socioeconomic Status, Maternal IQ and Early Child Neurocognitive Development: A Multivariate Analysis of Data Collected in a Newborn Cohort Study.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {10}, number = {5}, pages = {e0127052}, pmid = {25996934}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adult ; *Child Development ; *Cognition ; *Family ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; *Intelligence ; Italy ; Language Development ; Male ; *Mother-Child Relations ; Motor Activity ; Multivariate Analysis ; Prospective Studies ; Public Health Surveillance ; *Social Class ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The relative role of socioeconomic status (SES), home environment and maternal intelligence, as factors affecting child cognitive development in early childhood is still unclear. The aim of this study is to analyze the association of SES, home environment and maternal IQ with child neurodevelopment at 18 months.<br><br>METHODS: The data were collected prospectively in the PHIME study, a newborn cohort study carried out in Italy between 2007 and 2010. Maternal nonverbal abilities (IQ) were evaluated using the Standard Progressive Matrices, a version of the Raven's Progressive Matrices; a direct evaluation of the home environment was carried out with the AIRE instrument, designed using the HOME (Home Observation for Measurement of the Environment) model; the socioeconomic characteristics were evaluated using the SES index which takes into account parents occupation, type of employment, educational level, homeownership. The study outcome was child neurodevelopment evaluated at 18 months, with the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development Third Edition (BSID III). Linear regression analyses and mediation analyses were carried out to evaluate the association between the three exposures, and the scaled scores of the three main scales of BSID III (cognitive, language and motor scale), with adjustment for a wide range of potential explanatory variables.<br><br>RESULTS: Data from 502 mother-child pairs were analyzed. Mediation analysis showed a relationship between SES and maternal IQ, with a complete mediation effect of home environment in affecting cognitive and language domains. A direct significant effect of maternal IQ on the BSID III motor development scale and the mediation effect of home environment were found.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that home environment was the variable with greater influence on neurodevelopment at 18 months. The observation of how parents and children interact in the home context is crucial to adequately evaluate early child development.}, }
@article {pmid25995051, year = {2016}, author = {Gordon, JA and Stichman, AJ}, title = {The Influence of Rehabilitative and Punishment Ideology on Correctional Officers' Perceptions of Informal Bases of Power.}, journal = {International journal of offender therapy and comparative criminology}, volume = {60}, number = {14}, pages = {1591-1608}, doi = {10.1177/0306624X15586414}, pmid = {25995051}, issn = {1552-6933}, mesh = {Adult ; *Attitude ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Power, Psychological ; *Prisons ; *Punishment ; United States ; Workforce ; }, abstract = {Maintaining order is a key goal for prison managers. Much of the research on order maintenance focuses, however, on disruptions of order, even when order is more common. Examining factors related to perceptions on how officers get inmates to comply is, therefore, an important consideration. Using a survey of correctional officers from a Mid-Atlantic state, this study considers three dimensions of French and Raven's theory on the bases of power. The focus is to examine correctional orientation and compliance regarding three dimensions of power that rely on informal control and relationships. The results indicate that officers' belief in rehabilitative ideals is consistently related to the dimensions of legitimate, referent, and expert control. Other individual and organizational factors are also related to dimensions of power. Implications for policies and for future research are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid25994674, year = {2015}, author = {Klump, BC and van der Wal, JE and St Clair, JJ and Rutz, C}, title = {Context-dependent 'safekeeping' of foraging tools in New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {282}, number = {1808}, pages = {20150278}, pmid = {25994674}, issn = {1471-2954}, support = {BB/G023913/2//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Crows/*physiology ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Several animal species use tools for foraging, such as sticks to extract embedded arthropods and honey, or stones to crack open nuts and eggs. While providing access to nutritious foods, these behaviours may incur significant costs, such as the time and energy spent searching for, manufacturing and transporting tools. These costs can be reduced by re-using tools, keeping them safe when not needed. We experimentally investigated what New Caledonian crows do with their tools between successive prey extractions, and whether they express tool 'safekeeping' behaviours more often when the costs (foraging at height), or likelihood (handling of demanding prey), of tool loss are high. Birds generally took care of their tools (84% of 176 prey extractions, nine subjects), either trapping them underfoot (74%) or storing them in holes (26%)--behaviours we also observed in the wild (19 cases, four subjects). Moreover, tool-handling behaviour was context-dependent, with subjects: keeping their tools safe significantly more often when foraging at height; and storing tools significantly more often in holes when extracting more demanding prey (under these conditions, foot-trapping proved challenging). In arboreal environments, safekeeping can prevent costly tool losses, removing a potentially important constraint on the evolution of habitual and complex tool behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid25993609, year = {2015}, author = {Carruthers, J and Rivkin, A and Donofrio, L and Bertucci, V and Somogyi, C and Lei, X and Davis, PG and Campo, A and Beddingfield, FC}, title = {A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Repeated OnabotulinumtoxinA Treatments in Subjects With Crow's Feet Lines and Glabellar Lines.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {41}, number = {6}, pages = {702-711}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000000357}, pmid = {25993609}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Blepharoptosis/chemically induced ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Cosmetic Techniques/adverse effects ; Double-Blind Method ; Eye ; Female ; Forehead ; Headache/chemically induced ; Hematoma/chemically induced ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Patient Satisfaction ; Self Concept ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This is the third study in a Phase 3 program evaluating onabotulinumtoxinA treatment of crow's feet lines (CFL).<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy and safety of repeated onabotulinumtoxinA treatments of CFL alone or with glabellar lines (GL) in subjects with moderate-to-severe CFL and GL (maximum smile).<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: This 5-month extension of a 7-month study randomized subjects who originally received onabotulinumtoxinA 24 U (CFL only; n = 227) or 44 U (24 U for CFL + 20 U for GL; n = 260) to retreatment with the same dose. Placebo-treated subjects were rerandomized to onabotulinumtoxinA 44 U (n = 101) or placebo (n = 96). Primary efficacy end point (Day 30) was the proportion of subjects who achieved a CFL severity rating of none or mild (maximum smile) on the investigator-assessed Facial Wrinkle Scale (FWS). Additional efficacy end points and adverse events were evaluated.<br><br>RESULTS: Responder rates (primary end point) were significantly greater in onabotulinumtoxinA-treated groups (24 U: 56.5%; 44 U: 63.6%; placebo: 1.1%; p < .001). Improvements on most patient-reported outcomes (PROs) favored the 44-U group over the 24-U group. Adverse events did not differ among groups; most were mild or moderate.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Repeated onabotulinumtoxinA treatments significantly reduce CFL severity based on FWS and PROs. Adverse event profiles remain consistent with approved GL labeling.}, }
@article {pmid25993022, year = {2015}, author = {Grubaugh, ND and Smith, DR and Brackney, DE and Bosco-Lauth, AM and Fauver, JR and Campbell, CL and Felix, TA and Romo, H and Duggal, NK and Dietrich, EA and Eike, T and Beane, JE and Bowen, RA and Black, WC and Brault, AC and Ebel, GD}, title = {Experimental evolution of an RNA virus in wild birds: evidence for host-dependent impacts on population structure and competitive fitness.}, journal = {PLoS pathogens}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {e1004874}, pmid = {25993022}, issn = {1553-7374}, support = {R01 AI067380/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; AI067380/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/genetics ; Biological Evolution ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Birds ; Genetic Fitness ; Mutation/genetics ; Species Specificity ; Virus Replication ; West Nile Fever/*virology ; West Nile virus/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Within hosts, RNA viruses form populations that are genetically and phenotypically complex. Heterogeneity in RNA virus genomes arises due to error-prone replication and is reduced by stochastic and selective mechanisms that are incompletely understood. Defining how natural selection shapes RNA virus populations is critical because it can inform treatment paradigms and enhance control efforts. We allowed West Nile virus (WNV) to replicate in wild-caught American crows, house sparrows and American robins to assess how natural selection shapes RNA virus populations in ecologically relevant hosts that differ in susceptibility to virus-induced mortality. After five sequential passages in each bird species, we examined the phenotype and population diversity of WNV through fitness competition assays and next generation sequencing. We demonstrate that fitness gains occur in a species-specific manner, with the greatest replicative fitness gains in robin-passaged WNV and the least in WNV passaged in crows. Sequencing data revealed that intrahost WNV populations were strongly influenced by purifying selection and the overall complexity of the viral populations was similar among passaged hosts. However, the selective pressures that control WNV populations seem to be bird species-dependent. Specifically, crow-passaged WNV populations contained the most unique mutations (~1.7× more than sparrows, ~3.4× more than robins) and defective genomes (~1.4× greater than sparrows, ~2.7× greater than robins), but the lowest average mutation frequency (about equal to sparrows, ~2.6× lower than robins). Therefore, our data suggest that WNV replication in the most disease-susceptible bird species is positively associated with virus mutational tolerance, likely via complementation, and negatively associated with the strength of selection. These differences in genetic composition most likely have distinct phenotypic consequences for the virus populations. Taken together, these results reveal important insights into how different hosts may contribute to the emergence of RNA viruses.}, }
@article {pmid25985093, year = {2015}, author = {Suzuki, TN}, title = {Assessment of predation risk through referential communication in incubating birds.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {10239}, pmid = {25985093}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {*Animal Communication ; Animals ; *Birds ; Female ; *Predatory Behavior ; }, abstract = {Parents of many bird species produce alarm calls when they approach and deter a nest predator in order to defend their offspring. Alarm calls have been shown to warn nestlings about predatory threats, but parents also face a similar risk of predation when incubating eggs in their nests. Here, I show that incubating female Japanese great tits, Parus minor, assess predation risk by conspecific alarm calls given outside the nest cavity. Tits produce acoustically discrete alarm calls for different nest predators: "jar" calls for snakes and "chicka" calls for other predators such as crows and martens. Playback experiments revealed that incubating females responded to "jar" calls by leaving their nest, whereas they responded to "chicka" calls by looking out of the nest entrance. Since snakes invade the nest cavity, escaping from the nest helps females avoid snake predation. In contrast, "chicka" calls are used for a variety of predator types, and therefore, looking out of the nest entrance helps females gather information about the type and location of approaching predators. These results show that incubating females derive information about predator type from different types of alarm calls, providing a novel example of functionally referential communication.}, }
@article {pmid25984564, year = {2014}, author = {Auersperg, AM and Oswald, N and Domanegg, M and Gajdon, GK and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Unrewarded Object Combinations in Captive Parrots.}, journal = {Animal behavior and cognition}, volume = {1}, number = {4}, pages = {470-488}, pmid = {25984564}, issn = {2372-5052}, support = {J 3404/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {In primates, complex object combinations during play are often regarded as precursors of functional behavior. Here we investigate combinatory behaviors during unrewarded object manipulation in seven parrot species, including kea, African grey parrots and Goffin cockatoos, three species previously used as model species for technical problem solving. We further examine a habitually tool using species, the black palm cockatoo. Moreover, we incorporate three neotropical species, the yellow- and the black-billed Amazon and the burrowing parakeet. Paralleling previous studies on primates and corvids, free object-object combinations and complex object-substrate combinations such as inserting objects into tubes/holes or stacking rings onto poles prevailed in the species previously linked to advanced physical cognition and tool use. In addition, free object-object combinations were intrinsically structured in Goffin cockatoos and in kea.}, }
@article {pmid25984563, year = {2014}, author = {Szipl, G and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Craving Ravens: Individual 'haa' Call Rates at Feeding Sites as Cues to Personality and Levels of Fission-Fusion Dynamics?.}, journal = {Animal behavior and cognition}, volume = {1}, number = {3}, pages = {265-280}, pmid = {25984563}, issn = {2372-5052}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Common ravens aggregate in large non-breeder flocks for roosting and foraging until they achieve the status of territorial breeders. When discovering food, they produce far-reaching yells or 'haa' calls, which attract conspecifics. Due to the high levels of fission-fusion dynamics in non-breeders' flocks, assemblies of feeding ravens were long thought to represent anonymous aggregations. Yet, non-breeders vary in their degree of vagrancy, and 'haa' calls convey individually distinct acoustic features, which are perceived by conspecifics. These findings give rise to the assumption that raven societies are based on differential social relationships on an individual level. We investigated the occurrence of 'haa' calling and individual call rates in a group of individually marked free-ranging ravens. Calling mainly occurred in subadult and adult females, which showed low levels of vagrancy. Call rates differed significantly between individuals and with residency status, and were correlated with calling frequency and landing frequency. Local ravens called more often and at higher rates, and were less likely to land at the feeding site than vagrant birds. The results are discussed with respect to individual degrees of vagrancy, which may have an impact on social knowledge and communication in this species.}, }
@article {pmid25982732, year = {2015}, author = {Zhu, Y and Sun, L and Garbarino, A and Schmidt, C and Fang, J and Chen, J}, title = {PathRings: a web-based tool for exploration of ortholog and expression data in biological pathways.}, journal = {BMC bioinformatics}, volume = {16}, number = {1}, pages = {165}, pmid = {25982732}, issn = {1471-2105}, mesh = {Computer Graphics ; Computer Simulation ; *Gene Expression ; Genomics/*methods ; Humans ; *Internet ; *Metabolic Networks and Pathways ; Proteins/metabolism ; Proteomics/*methods ; Signal Transduction ; *Software ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: High-throughput methods are generating biological data on a vast scale. In many instances, genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data must be interpreted in the context of signaling and metabolic pathways to yield testable hypotheses. Since humans can interpret visual information rapidly, a means for interactive visual exploration that lets biologists interpret such data in a comprehensive and exploratory manner would be invaluable. However, humans have limited memory capacity. Current visualization tools have limited viewing and manipulation capabilities to address complex data analysis problems, and visual exploratory tools are needed to reduce the high mental workload imposed on biologists.<br><br>RESULTS: We present PathRings, a new interactive web-based, scalable biological pathway visualization tool for biologists to explore and interpret biological pathways. PathRings integrates metabolic and signaling pathways from Reactome in a single compound graph visualization, and uses color to highlight genes and pathways affected by input data. Pathways are available for multiple species and analysis of user-defined species or input is also possible. PathRings permits an overview of the impact of gene expression data on all pathways to facilitate visual pattern finding. Detailed pathways information can be opened in new visualizations while maintaining the overview, that form a visual exploration provenance. A dynamic multi-view bubbles interface is designed to support biologists' analytical tasks by letting users construct incremental views that further reflect biologists' analytical process. This approach decomposes complex tasks into simpler ones and automates multi-view management.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: PathRings has been designed to accommodate interactive visual analysis of experimental data in the context of pathways defined by Reactome. Our new approach to interface design can effectively support comparative tasks over substantially larger collection than existing tools. The dynamic interaction among multi-view dataset visualization improves the data exploration. PathRings is available free at http://raven.anr.udel.edu/~sunliang/PathRings and the source code is hosted on Github: https://github.com/ivcl/PathRings .}, }
@article {pmid25981411, year = {2015}, author = {Kärnä, OM and Grönroos, M and Antikainen, H and Hjort, J and Ilmonen, J and Paasivirta, L and Heino, J}, title = {Inferring the effects of potential dispersal routes on the metacommunity structure of stream insects: as the crow flies, as the fish swims or as the fox runs?.}, journal = {The Journal of animal ecology}, volume = {84}, number = {5}, pages = {1342-1353}, doi = {10.1111/1365-2656.12397}, pmid = {25981411}, issn = {1365-2656}, mesh = {*Animal Distribution ; Animals ; *Biodiversity ; Energy Metabolism ; Finland ; Geography ; Insecta/*physiology ; *Rivers ; }, abstract = {1. Metacommunity research relies largely on proxies for inferring the effect of dispersal on local community structure. Overland and watercourse distances have been typically used as such proxies. A good proxy for dispersal should, however, take into account more complex landscape features that can affect an organism's movement and dispersal. The cost distance approach does just that, allowing determining the path of least resistance across a landscape. 2. Here, we examined the distance decay of assemblage similarity within a subarctic stream insect metacommunity. We tested whether overland, watercourse and cumulative cost distances performed differently as correlates of dissimilarity in assemblage composition between sites. We also investigated the effect of body size and dispersal mode on metacommunity organization. 3. We found that dissimilarities in assemblage composition correlated more strongly with environmental than physical distances between sites. Overland and watercourse distances showed similar correlations to assemblage dissimilarity between sites, being sometimes significantly correlated with biological variation of entire insect communities. In metacommunities deconstructed by body size or dispersal mode, contrary to our expectation, passive dispersers showed a slightly stronger correlation than active dispersers to environmental differences between sites, although passive dispersers also showed a stronger correlation than active dispersers to physical distances between sites. The strength of correlation between environmental distance and biological dissimilarity also varied slightly among the body size classes. 4. After controlling for environmental differences between sites, cumulative cost distances were slightly better correlates of biological dissimilarities than overland or watercourse distances between sites. However, quantitative differences in correlation coefficients were small between different physical distances. 5. Although environmental differences typically override physical distances as determinants of the composition of stream insect assemblages, correlations between environmental distances and biological dissimilarities are typically rather weak. This undetermined variation may be attributable to dispersal processes, which may be captured using better proxies for the process. We suggest that further modifying the measurement of cost distances may be a fruitful avenue, especially if complemented by more direct natural history information on insect dispersal behaviour and distances travelled by them.}, }
@article {pmid25973563, year = {2015}, author = {Soares, DJ and Dejoseph, LM and Zuliani, GF and Liebertz, DJ and Patel, VS}, title = {Impact of Postreconstitution Room Temperature Storage on the Efficacy of IncobotulinumtoxinA Treatment of Dynamic Lateral Canthus Lines.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {41}, number = {6}, pages = {712-717}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000000365}, pmid = {25973563}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Cosmetic Techniques ; Double-Blind Method ; Drug Storage ; Eye ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*therapeutic use ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; *Temperature ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The efficacy of botulinum neurotoxin type A after prolonged storage at room temperature is currently unknown. This randomized, double-blinded, split-face study investigated the impact of postreconstitution 25°C storage for 1 week on the clinical efficacy of incobotulinumtoxinA in the treatment of lateral canthus lines.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: Twenty-one participants with at least mild to moderate crow's feet at maximum contraction on the Crow's Feet Grading Scale (CFGS) underwent injection to each lateral canthus area with 10 U of freshly reconstituted and room temperature-stored product and followed for 4 months. Responders were defined as those demonstrating at least a 1-point improvement on their CFGS score.<br><br>RESULTS: At each visit (2 weeks and 1, 2, 3, and 4 months), there was no statistical difference in the rate of responders between the fresh and the stored products. In addition, the percentage of responders displaying a 2-point versus a 1-point improvement and response longevity did not statistically differ between both products for the entire 4-month study duration.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Prolonged storage of incobotulinumtoxinA at room temperature does not appear to significantly alter its efficacy or longevity in the treatment of dynamic lateral canthus lines.}, }
@article {pmid25973559, year = {2015}, author = {Carruthers, A and Sadick, N and Brandt, F and Trindade de Almeida, AR and Fagien, S and Goodman, GJ and Raspaldo, H and Smith, K and Darmody, S and Gallagher, CJ and Street, J and Romagnano, L}, title = {Evolution of Facial Aesthetic Treatment Over Five or More Years: A Retrospective Cross-sectional Analysis of Continuous OnabotulinumtoxinA Treatment.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {41}, number = {6}, pages = {693-701}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000000340}, pmid = {25973559}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Combined Modality Therapy/trends ; Cosmetic Techniques/*trends ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Dermatologic Agents/therapeutic use ; Drug Administration Schedule ; Esthetics ; Eye ; Female ; Forehead ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Patient Satisfaction ; Retrospective Studies ; Self Concept ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Little information exists on how facial aesthetic treatments are incorporated into aesthetic regimens.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: Assess the evolution of facial aesthetic treatments in patients receiving long-term continuous onabotulinumtoxinA treatment.<br><br>METHODS: This international retrospective chart review included patients with &#x2265;5 years of continuous onabotulinumtoxinA treatments including &#x2265;1 glabellar lines treatment/year. Charts were reviewed for facial areas treated, number of treatments, doses/treatment visit, concomitant aesthetic procedures, and onabotulinumtoxinA-related adverse events.<br><br>RESULTS: Data were collected from 5,112 onabotulinumtoxinA treatment sessions for 194 patients over an average of 9.1 years. Dosing was relatively stable over time; however, interinjection intervals increased. Glabellar lines' treatment temporally preceded crow's feet lines and forehead lines' treatment. A majority of patients (85%) also received treatment with fillers. Cumulative increases in onabotulinumtoxinA treatments occurred over time and by facial area corresponding with increases in treatments with injectable fillers, energy-based devices, and prescription topical creams. The longer the patients were treated, the younger they perceived themselves to look. Rates of adverse events were low.<br><br>CONCLUSION: OnabotulinumtoxinA treatment evolved over time, coinciding with growth of the facial aesthetics market. Additional treatment modalities were added as complements to onabotulinumtoxinA. Long-term continuous onabotulinumtoxinA injections are an important component of contemporary facial aesthetic treatment regimens.}, }
@article {pmid25972399, year = {2015}, author = {Magnotti, JF and Katz, JS and Wright, AA and Kelly, DM}, title = {Superior abstract-concept learning by Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana).}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {20150148}, pmid = {25972399}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Concept Formation ; *Discrimination Learning ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The ability to learn abstract relational concepts is fundamental to higher level cognition. In contrast to item-specific concepts (e.g. pictures containing trees versus pictures containing cars), abstract relational concepts are not bound to particular stimulus features, but instead involve the relationship between stimuli and therefore may be extrapolated to novel stimuli. Previous research investigating the same/different abstract concept has suggested that primates might be specially adapted to extract relations among items and would require fewer exemplars of a rule to learn an abstract concept than non-primate species. We assessed abstract-concept learning in an avian species, Clark's nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana), using a small number of exemplars (eight pairs of the same rule, and 56 pairs of the different rule) identical to that previously used to compare rhesus monkeys, capuchin monkeys and pigeons. Nutcrackers as a group (N = 9) showed more novel stimulus transfer than any previous species tested with this small number of exemplars. Two nutcrackers showed full concept learning and four more showed transfer considerably above chance performance, indicating partial concept learning. These results show that the Clark's nutcracker, a corvid species well known for its amazing feats of spatial memory, learns the same/different abstract concept better than any non-human species (including non-human primates) yet tested on this same task.}, }
@article {pmid25959534, year = {2015}, author = {Watanabe, KP and Kawata, M and Ikenaka, Y and Nakayama, SM and Ishii, C and Darwish, WS and Saengtienchai, A and Mizukawa, H and Ishizuka, M}, title = {Cytochrome P450-mediated warfarin metabolic ability is not a critical determinant of warfarin sensitivity in avian species: In vitro assays in several birds and in vivo assays in chicken.}, journal = {Environmental toxicology and chemistry}, volume = {34}, number = {10}, pages = {2328-2334}, doi = {10.1002/etc.3062}, pmid = {25959534}, issn = {1552-8618}, mesh = {Administration, Oral ; Animals ; Biological Assay/*methods ; Birds/*metabolism ; Chickens/*metabolism ; Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System/*metabolism ; Drug Resistance ; Feces/chemistry ; Female ; Half-Life ; Kinetics ; Male ; Metabolism, Inborn Errors/blood/*enzymology ; Metabolome ; Microsomes, Liver/metabolism ; Rats, Wistar ; Warfarin/analogs &amp; derivatives/blood/chemistry/*metabolism/pharmacokinetics ; }, abstract = {Coumarin-derivative anticoagulant rodenticides used for rodent control are posing a serious risk to wild bird populations. For warfarin, a classic coumarin derivative, chickens have a high median lethal dose (LD50), whereas mammalian species generally have much lower LD50. Large interspecies differences in sensitivity to warfarin are to be expected. The authors previously reported substantial differences in warfarin metabolism among avian species; however, the actual in vivo pharmacokinetics have yet to be elucidated, even in the chicken. In the present study, the authors sought to provide an in-depth characterization of warfarin metabolism in birds using in vivo and in vitro approaches. A kinetic analysis of warfarin metabolism was performed using liver microsomes of 4 avian species, and the metabolic abilities of the chicken and crow were much higher in comparison with those of the mallard and ostrich. Analysis of in vivo metabolites from chickens showed that excretions predominantly consisted of 4'-hydroxywarfarin, which was consistent with the in vitro results. Pharmacokinetic analysis suggested that chickens have an unexpectedly long half-life despite showing high metabolic ability in vitro. The results suggest that the half-life of warfarin in other bird species could be longer than that in the chicken and that warfarin metabolism may not be a critical determinant of species differences with respect to warfarin sensitivity.}, }
@article {pmid25957953, year = {2015}, author = {Jayne, K and Lea, SE and Leaver, LA}, title = {Behavioural responses of Eastern grey squirrels, Sciurus carolinensis, to cues of risk while foraging.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {116}, number = {}, pages = {53-61}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2015.05.002}, pmid = {25957953}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation ; Animals ; Appetitive Behavior/*physiology ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Cues ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Female ; Male ; *Risk-Taking ; Sciuridae/*physiology ; Social Behavior ; Vocalization, Animal/physiology ; }, abstract = {Previous studies have shown that Eastern grey squirrels modify their behaviour while foraging to offset risks of social and predatory costs, but none have simultaneously compared whether such modifications are performed at a cost to foraging. The present study directly compares how grey squirrels respond to cues of these risks while foraging. We simulated social risk and predatory risk using acoustic playbacks of stimuli that grey squirrels might be exposed to at a foraging patch: calls of conspecifics, heterospecifics (competitor and non-competitor) and predators. We found that grey squirrels responded to predator, heterospecific competitor and conspecific playbacks by altering their foraging and vigilance behaviours. Foraging was most disrupted by increased vigilance when we played calls of predators. Squirrels' response to calls of heterospecific competitors did not differ from their response to conspecific calls, and they resumed foraging more quickly after both compared to predator calls: whereas they showed little response to calls of non-competitor heterospecifics and a white noise control. We conclude that squirrels respond differentially to calls made by conspecifics, heterospecific competitors and predators, with the most pronounced response being to calls of predators. We suggest that squirrels may view conspecific and corvid vocalisations as cues of potential conflict while foraging, necessitating increased vigilance.}, }
@article {pmid25937686, year = {2014}, author = {Miller, R and Schiestl, M and Whiten, A and Schwab, C and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Tolerance and Social Facilitation in the Foraging Behaviour of Free-Ranging Crows (Corvus corone corone; C. c. cornix).}, journal = {Ethology : formerly Zeitschrift fur Tierpsychologie}, volume = {120}, number = {12}, pages = {1248-1255}, pmid = {25937686}, issn = {0179-1613}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Social foraging provides animals with opportunities to gain knowledge about available food. Studies indicate that animals are influenced by social context during exploration and are able to learn socially. Carrion and hooded crows, which are opportunistic generalists with flexible social systems, have so far received little focus in this area. We combined observational and experimental approaches to investigate social interactions during foraging and social influences on crow behaviour within a free-ranging population at Vienna Zoo, which included 115 individually marked crows. We expected the crows to be tolerant of conspecifics during foraging due to high food abundance. We predicted that social context would enhance familiar object exploration, as well as a specific foraging strategy: predation by crows on other species. We found that crows were highly tolerant of one another, as reflected by their high rates of cofeeding - where they fed directly beside conspecific(s) - relative to affiliative or agonistic interactions. Evidence for social facilitation - when the observer's behaviour is affected by the mere presence of a model - was found in both object exploration and predation behaviour. Specifically, crows touched the objects more frequently when others were present (whilst only approaching the objects when alone), and conspecifics were present more frequently during predation events involving the high-risk target species. Evidence for enhancement during object exploration - where the observer's attention is drawn to a place or object by a model's actions - was not confirmed in this context. Our results highlight the role played by the presence of conspecifics across different contexts: natural foraging behaviour, familiar object exploration and a specific foraging strategy. To our knowledge, this is one of the first corvid studies aimed at teasing apart specific social influence and learning mechanisms in the field. These crows therefore make promising candidates for studying social learning and its consequences under naturalistic conditions.}, }
@article {pmid25921574, year = {2015}, author = {Erickson, BP and Lee, WW and Cohen, J and Grunebaum, LD}, title = {The role of neurotoxins in the periorbital and midfacial areas.}, journal = {Facial plastic surgery clinics of North America}, volume = {23}, number = {2}, pages = {243-255}, doi = {10.1016/j.fsc.2015.01.010}, pmid = {25921574}, issn = {1558-1926}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; *Face ; Forehead ; Humans ; *Orbit ; Patient Positioning ; Preoperative Care ; }, abstract = {Initially popularized for the treatment of strabismus and blepharospasm, injection of botulinum neurotoxin has become the most commonly performed cosmetic treatment in the United States. Injection techniques have been particularly well-studied in the midface and periocular region, and patient satisfaction tends to be very high. We review the salient differences among available neurotoxins, how to optimally reconstitute them, how to inject the forehead, glabella, lateral canthal lines ("crow's feet"), infralid region, and transverse nasal lines ("bunny lines"), how to sculpt the brow, and how to manage potential complications.}, }
@article {pmid25919466, year = {2015}, author = {Foss, L and Padgett, K and Reisen, WK and Kjemtrup, A and Ogawa, J and Kramer, V}, title = {WEST NILE VIRUS-RELATED TRENDS IN AVIAN MORTALITY IN CALIFORNIA, USA, 2003-12.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {51}, number = {3}, pages = {576-588}, doi = {10.7589/2014-06-144}, pmid = {25919466}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/virology ; Bird Diseases/*mortality/virology ; California/epidemiology ; Crows/microbiology ; Passeriformes/virology ; Population Surveillance ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary ; *West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) is an arbovirus transmitted enzootically by Culex mosquitoes among avian hosts. Since 2000, the California Dead Bird Surveillance Program (DBSP) has tracked avian mortality reported by the public on a telephone hotline and website and measured the prevalence of WNV infection in dead birds. We summarize herein WNV prevalence in dead birds tested and variation of WNV transmission over time and space with the use of DBSP data from 2003 to 2012. Prevalence among dead birds was highest in 2004, 2008, and 2012. This pattern was similar to peak WNV infection years for mosquitoes but not to human WNV incidence. Although American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) were most frequently reported and tested, this species ranked third in infection prevalence (44%) after Yellow-billed Magpies (Pica nuttalli; 62%) and Western Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma californica; 48%). Overall prevalence in American Robin (Turdus migratorius), House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus), and House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) carcasses ranged from 18% to 22%. Corvid WNV prevalence was highest in South Coast, Bay/Delta, Sacramento, and San Joaquin valleys, and Klamath/North Coast bioregions, overlapping areas of elevated WNV activity in other surveillance measurements. Bioregional analysis revealed the avian species most likely to be reported and found positive in each bioregion. Our results may be useful to WNV surveillance and control efforts and provide insight into bird population trends in California.}, }
@article {pmid25919246, year = {2015}, author = {Yeilding, RH and Fezza, JP}, title = {A Prospective, Split-Face, Randomized, Double-Blind Study Comparing OnabotulinumtoxinA to IncobotulinumtoxinA for Upper Face Wrinkles.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {135}, number = {5}, pages = {1328-1335}, doi = {10.1097/PRS.0000000000001255}, pmid = {25919246}, issn = {1529-4242}, mesh = {Acetylcholine Release Inhibitors/administration &amp; dosage ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Double-Blind Method ; Face ; Facial Muscles/*drug effects ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/administration &amp; dosage ; Prospective Studies ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The authors sought to compare the newest U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved botulinum toxin type A product, incobotulinumtoxinA, to onabotulinumtoxinA for upper face wrinkles. This is the first prospective, split-face, randomized, double-blind study addressing three types of facial wrinkles using a 1:1 dose ratio.<br><br>METHODS: The study was designed, institutional review board approval was obtained, and 45 patients were enrolled. A three-judge independent reviewer panel compared photographs of patients to the upper face validated assessment scales, selecting a grade ranging from 0 (no lines) to 4 (very severe) for the degree of glabellar lines, crow's feet, and forehead lines for each side of the face for photographs taken before treatment and 3 days, 2 weeks, 3 months, and 4 months after treatment. For toxin comparison, the difference in the magnitude of the degree of wrinkle scale at each period compared to before treatment was calculated and statistical analysis performed. Individual wrinkle types and all three wrinkle types combined were analyzed.<br><br>RESULTS: Both products offered significant reduction in individual and combined wrinkles at comparable time points; however, onabotulinumtoxinA had significantly greater combined dynamic wrinkle reduction at 3 days (p < 0.010), 2 weeks (p < 0.008), 3 months (p < 0.013), and 4 months (p < 0.045).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: For identical dosage, both onabotulinumtoxinA and incobotulinumtoxinA are safe and effective in reducing dynamic wrinkles in the upper face; however, for the authors' dosages, onabotulinumtoxinA had statistically greater efficacy at 3 days, 2 weeks, 3 months, and 4 months.<br><br>Therapeutic, II.}, }
@article {pmid25916463, year = {2015}, author = {El-Domyati, M and Attia, SK and El-Sawy, AE and Moftah, NH and Nasif, GA and Medhat, W and Marwan, B}, title = {The use of Botulinum toxin-a injection for facial wrinkles: a histological and immunohistochemical evaluation.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {14}, number = {2}, pages = {140-144}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.12144}, pmid = {25916463}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Adult ; Biopsy ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Collagen Type I/metabolism ; Collagen Type III/metabolism ; Elastin/metabolism ; Epidermis/metabolism/pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Immunoenzyme Techniques ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Skin/*metabolism/*pathology ; Skin Aging/*drug effects/pathology/physiology ; }, abstract = {Botulinum toxin (BTX)-A has been used for years in the reduction of facial wrinkles; however, histological and immunohistochemical changes after its use were not previously investigated. To evaluate histological and immunohistochemical changes after BTX-A injection for facial wrinkles, sixteen volunteers, with wrinkles on the upper third of the face, were subjected to single injection of BTX-A. Skin biopsy specimens were obtained from peri-orbital wrinkle site (crow's feet area) before and after 3 months of BTX-A injection. Using histological and immunohistochemical evaluation coupled with computerized morphometric analysis, measurement of epidermal thickness, wrinkle depth and width as well as quantitative evaluation of collagen types I and III and elastin was performed for skin biopsies. After BTX-A injections, there were significant increase in wrinkle width and granular layer thickness (P < 0.001), while the other histometrical measures as well as the immunohistochemical expression of collagen types I and III and elastin showed no significant difference (P > 0.05). However, collagen fibers showed better organization and orientation after BTX-A injection. The histological changes observed after BTX-A injection for facial wrinkles may help in better understanding of its mechanism of action.}, }
@article {pmid25913900, year = {2015}, author = {Spironelli, C and Angrilli, A}, title = {Language-related gamma EEG frontal reduction is associated with positive symptoms in schizophrenia patients.}, journal = {Schizophrenia research}, volume = {165}, number = {1}, pages = {22-29}, doi = {10.1016/j.schres.2015.04.003}, pmid = {25913900}, issn = {1573-2509}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Analysis of Variance ; Brain Mapping ; Electroencephalography ; Female ; Fourier Analysis ; Frontal Lobe/*physiopathology ; Gamma Rhythm/*physiology ; Humans ; Language Disorders/*etiology ; Linguistics ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Photic Stimulation ; Schizophrenia/*complications/*pathology ; Semantics ; Statistics as Topic ; Visual Perception ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Frontal hypoactivation has been consistently found in schizophrenia. We hypothesized that patients' deficit is asymmetrical, i.e., centred over the left frontal locations, associated with loss of language-related asymmetry, and correlated with positive symptoms.<br><br>METHOD: The amplitude of EEG gamma band (36-48Hz) was measured during the processing of three linguistic (Phonological vs. Semantic vs. Visuo-perceptual) tasks and used as index of activation/connectivity in 18 schizophrenia patients and 18 healthy participants.<br><br>RESULTS: Healthy controls showed higher gamma in frontal sites, revealing a significantly greater left vs. right asymmetry in all linguistic tasks, whereas patients exhibited decreased and bilateral gamma amplitude (i.e., reduced activation/connectivity) in frontal regions. The patients' left hypofrontality during phonological processing was positively correlated with higher levels of Delusions (P1) and Hallucination (P3) PANSS subscales. A significantly greater left posterior gamma amplitude was found in patients compared with controls.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Results suggest, in schizophrenia patients, a functional deficit of left frontal regions including Broca's area, a key site playing a fundamental hierarchical role between and within hemispheres which integrates many basic processes in linguistic and conceptual organization. The significant correlation between lack of the left anterior asymmetry and increased positive symptoms is in line with Crow's hypothesis postulating the aetiological role of disrupted linguistic frontal asymmetry on the onset of the key symptoms of schizophrenia.}, }
@article {pmid25913064, year = {2015}, author = {Lu, K}, title = {Re: Byron H. Lee, Adam S. Kibel, Jay P. Ciezki, et al. Are biochemical recurrence outcomes similar after radical prostatectomy and radiation therapy? Analysis of prostate cancer-specific mortality by nomogram-predicted risks of biochemical recurrence. Eur Urol 2015;67:204-9.}, journal = {European urology}, volume = {68}, number = {3}, pages = {e61-2}, doi = {10.1016/j.eururo.2015.04.015}, pmid = {25913064}, issn = {1873-7560}, mesh = {Brachytherapy/*mortality ; *Decision Support Techniques ; Humans ; Kallikreins/*blood ; Male ; *Neoplasm Recurrence, Local ; *Nomograms ; Prostate-Specific Antigen/*blood ; Prostatectomy/*mortality ; Prostatic Neoplasms/*mortality/*therapy ; }, }
@article {pmid25912895, year = {2015}, author = {Soler, JJ and Ruiz-Rodríguez, M and Martín-Vivaldi, M and Peralta-Sánchez, JM and Ruiz-Castellano, C and Tomás, G}, title = {Laying date, incubation and egg breakage as determinants of bacterial load on bird eggshells: experimental evidence.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {179}, number = {1}, pages = {63-74}, pmid = {25912895}, issn = {1432-1939}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bacterial Load ; Biological Evolution ; Coturnix/*growth &amp; development/microbiology/parasitology/physiology ; Egg Shell/*microbiology ; Eggs/microbiology ; Female ; Nesting Behavior/*physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Phenotype ; Reproduction ; Seasons ; Symbiosis ; }, abstract = {Exploring factors guiding interactions of bacterial communities with animals has become of primary importance for ecologists and evolutionary biologists during the last years because of their likely central role in the evolution of animal life history traits. We explored the association between laying date and eggshell bacterial load (mesophilic bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae, Staphylococci, and Enterococci) in natural and artificial magpie (Pica pica) nests containing fresh commercial quail (Coturnix coturnix) eggs. We manipulated hygiene conditions by spilling egg contents on magpie and artificial nests and explored experimental effects during the breeding season. Egg breakage is a common outcome of brood parasitism by great spotted cuckoos (Clamator glandarius) on the nests of magpie, one of its main hosts. We found that the treatment increased eggshell bacterial load in artificial nests, but not in magpie nests with incubating females, which suggests that parental activity prevents the proliferation of bacteria on the eggshells in relation to egg breakage. Moreover, laying date was positively related to eggshell bacterial load in active magpie nests, but negatively in artificial nests. The results suggest that variation in parental characteristics of magpies rather than climatic variation during the breeding season explained the detected positive association. Because the eggshell bacterial load is a proxy of hatching success, the detected positive association between eggshell bacterial loads and laying date in natural, but not in artificial nests, suggests that the generalized negative association between laying date and avian breeding success can be, at least partially, explained by differential bacterial effects.}, }
@article {pmid25905887, year = {2015}, author = {O'Dell, M}, title = {Meeting Jim Crow.}, journal = {Family medicine}, volume = {47}, number = {5}, pages = {403-404}, pmid = {25905887}, issn = {1938-3800}, mesh = {*Black or African American ; Humans ; Patient Care/*psychology ; *Prejudice/prevention &amp; control/psychology ; Race Relations ; *Racism/prevention &amp; control/psychology ; }, }
@article {pmid25897815, year = {2015}, author = {Rovida, F and Sarasini, A and Campanini, G and Percivalle, E and Gorini, G and Mariani, B and Pan, A and Cuzzoli, A and Possenti, S and Manzini, L and Castelli, F and Bossini, N and Grossi, PA and Castilletti, C and Calzolari, M and Lelli, D and Piatti, A and Baldanti, F and , }, title = {West Nile virus outbreak in the Lombardy region, northern Italy, summer 2013.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {278-283}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2014.1711}, pmid = {25897815}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*virology ; Culicidae/*virology ; *Disease Outbreaks ; Female ; Horses ; Humans ; Italy/epidemiology ; Male ; Retrospective Studies ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {In the summer of 2013, an outbreak of West Nile virus (WNV) infection occurred in the Lombardy, a region of northern Italy to the west of districts affected by WNV in previous years. Eighteen cases of human WNV infection were diagnosed--10 cases of acute WNV neuroinvasive disease and eight of WNV fever. In the same period, WNV was detected in birds (one crow) in horses (11 cases) and from mosquitoes (six pools).}, }
@article {pmid25895287, year = {2015}, author = {Trotter, MC}, title = {Lloyd Tevis Miller, MD. Professionalas in the Jim Crow South.}, journal = {Journal of the Mississippi State Medical Association}, volume = {56}, number = {2}, pages = {49-53}, pmid = {25895287}, issn = {0026-6396}, mesh = {Black or African American/*history ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Mississippi ; Physicians/*history ; Racism/*history ; }, }
@article {pmid25892848, year = {2015}, author = {Kubitza, RJ and Bugnyar, T and Schwab, C}, title = {Pair bond characteristics and maintenance in free-flying jackdaws Corvus monedula: effects of social context and season.}, journal = {Journal of avian biology}, volume = {46}, number = {2}, pages = {206-215}, pmid = {25892848}, issn = {0908-8857}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Most birds rely on cooperation between pair partners for breeding. In long-term monogamous species, pair bonds are considered the basic units of social organization, albeit these birds often form foraging, roosting or breeding groups in which they repeatedly interact with numerous conspecifics. Focusing on jackdaws Corvus monedula, we here investigated 1) the interplay between pair bond and group dynamics in several social contexts and 2) how pair partners differ in individual effort of pair bond maintenance. Based on long-term data on free-flying birds, we quantified social interactions between group members within three positive contexts (spatial proximity, feeding and sociopositive interactions) for different periods of the year (non-breeding, pre-breeding, parental care). On the group level, we found that the number of interaction partners was highest in the spatial proximity context while in the feeding and sociopositive contexts the number of interaction partners was low and moderately low, respectively. Interactions were reciprocated within almost all contexts and periods. Investigating subgrouping within the flock, results showed that interactions were preferentially directed towards the respective pair partner compared to unmated adults. When determining pair partner effort, both sexes similarly invested most into mutual proximity during late winter, thereby refreshing their bond before the onset of breeding. Paired males fed their mates over the entire year at similar rates while paired females hardly fed their mates at all but engaged in sociopositive behaviors instead. We conclude that jackdaws actively seek out positive social ties to flock members (close proximity, sociopositive behavior), at certain times of the year. Thus, the group functions as a dynamic social unit, nested within are highly cooperative pair bonds. Both sexes invested into the bond with different social behaviors and different levels of effort, yet these are likely male and female proximate mechanisms aimed at maintaining and perpetuating the pair bond.}, }
@article {pmid25892738, year = {2014}, author = {Hillemann, F and Bugnyar, T and Kotrschal, K and Wascher, CA}, title = {Waiting for better, not for more: corvids respond to quality in two delay maintenance tasks.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {90}, number = {}, pages = {1-10}, pmid = {25892738}, issn = {0003-3472}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Self-control, that is, overcoming impulsivity towards immediate gratification in favour of a greater but delayed reward, is seen as a valuable skill when making future-oriented decisions. Experimental studies in nonhuman primates revealed that individuals of some species are willing to tolerate delays of up to several minutes in order to gain food of a higher quantity or quality. Recently, birds (carrion crows, Corvus corone, common ravens, Corvus corax, Goffin cockatoos, Cacatua goffiniana) performed comparably to primates in an exchange task, contradicting previous notions that birds may lack any impulse control. However, performance differed strikingly with the currency of exchange: individuals of all three species performed better when asked to wait for a higher food quality, rather than quantity. Here, we built on this work and tested whether the apparent difference in levels of self-control expressed in quality versus quantity tasks reflects cognitive constraints or is merely due to methodological limitations. In addition to the exchange paradigm, we applied another established delay maintenance methodology: the accumulation task. In this latter task, food items accumulated to a maximum of four pieces, whereas in the exchange task, an initial item could be exchanged for a reward item after a certain time delay elapsed. In both tasks, birds (seven crows, five ravens) were asked to wait in order to optimize either the quality or the quantity of food. We found that corvids were willing to delay gratification when it led to a food reward of higher quality, but not when waiting was rewarded with a higher quantity, independent of the experimental paradigm. This study is the first to test crows and ravens with two different paradigms, the accumulation and the exchange of food, within the same experiment, allowing for fair comparisons between methods and species.}, }
@article {pmid25888754, year = {2015}, author = {Rizzoli, A and Bolzoni, L and Chadwick, EA and Capelli, G and Montarsi, F and Grisenti, M and de la Puente, JM and Muñoz, J and Figuerola, J and Soriguer, R and Anfora, G and Di Luca, M and Rosà, R}, title = {Understanding West Nile virus ecology in Europe: Culex pipiens host feeding preference in a hotspot of virus emergence.}, journal = {Parasites &amp; vectors}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {213}, pmid = {25888754}, issn = {1756-3305}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/blood/genetics ; Culex/*physiology/virology ; DNA/genetics ; Disease Reservoirs ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Odorants ; Species Specificity ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Understanding wildlife disease ecology is becoming an urgent need due to the continuous emergence and spread of several wildlife zoonotic diseases. West Nile Virus (WNV) is the most widespread arthropod-borne virus in the world, and in recent decades there has been an increase both in geographic range, and in the frequency of symptomatic infections in humans and wildlife. The principal vector for WNV in Europe is the common house Culex pipiens mosquito, which feeds on a wide variety of vertebrate host species. Variation in mosquito feeding preference has been described as one of the most influential parameters driving intensity and timing of WNV infection in the United States, but feeding preferences for this species have been little studied in Europe.<br><br>METHODS: Here, we estimated feeding preference for wild Cx. pipiens in northern Italy, using molecular analysis to identify the origin of blood meals, and avian census to control host abundance variations. Additionally, we used host bird odour extracts to test experimentally mosquito preferences in the absence of environmental variations.<br><br>RESULTS: For the first time, we demonstrate a clear feeding preference for the common blackbird (Turdus merula), both for wild collected specimens and in the lab, suggesting a potential important role for this species in the WNV epidemiology in Europe. A seasonal decrease in abundance of blackbirds is associated with increased feeding on Eurasian magpies (Pica pica), and this may be linked to seasonal emergence of WNV in humans. Feeding preferences on blackbirds are more marked in rural areas, while preference for magpies is higher in peridomestic areas. Other species, such as the house sparrow (Passer domesticus) appear to be selected by mosquitoes opportunistically in relation to its abundance.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our findings provide new insights into the ecology of Cx. pipiens in Europe and may give useful indications in terms of implementing targeted WNV surveillance plans. However, a clearer understanding of spatio-temporal variations of Cx. pipiens feeding preferences, and targeted studies on reservoir competence for WNV for these species are therefore now urgently needed as this is essential to describe disease dynamics and quantify virus transmission risk.}, }
@article {pmid25883519, year = {2015}, author = {Okada, Y and Okada, M}, title = {Effects of methanolic extracts from edible plants on endogenous secretory receptor for advanced glycation end products induced by the high glucose incubation in human endothelial cells.}, journal = {Journal of pharmacy &amp; bioallied sciences}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {145-150}, pmid = {25883519}, issn = {0976-4879}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In diabetic populations, endogenous secretory receptor for advanced glycation end products (esRAGE) levels may be related to the degree of diabetic complications or to the protection from diabetic complications.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: We investigated the impact of 29 methanolic extracts from edible plants on esRAGE production in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) cultured in high (4.5 g/L) glucose.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Edible plants were minced, and extracts were obtained with methanol overnight. The methanolic extracts from 29 edible plants were evaporated in a vacuum. For screening study purposes, HUVECs were seeded in culture dishes (1.5 &#xd7; 10(5) cells). Then, HUVECs were incubated with 1 g/L or 4.5 g/L of glucose in SFM CS-C medium treated with methanolic extracts from edible plants (MEEP) for 96 h. Determination of esRAGE production in the cell culture-derived supernatants was performed by colorimetric ELISA. The 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) level was determined by using the 8-OHdG Check ELISA kit. Peroxynitrite-dependent oxidation of 2', 7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein to 2', 7'-dichlorofluorescein was estimated based on the method described by Crow. Because MEEP were methanolic extracts, we measured their total phenolic content (TPC). TPC was measured with a modified version of the Folin-Ciocalteu method.<br><br>RESULTS: The results showed eight extracts increased esRAGE production. The extract from white radish sprouts showed the highest esRAGE production activity, and then eggplant, carrot peel, young sweet corn, Jew's marrow, broad bean, Japanese radish and cauliflower. In order to understand the mechanism of esRAGE production, the eight extracts were examined for DNA damage, peroxynitrite scavenging activity, and TPC in correlation with their esRAGE production. The results showed esRAGE production correlates with the peroxynitrite level and TPC.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study supports the utilization of these eight extracts in folk medicine for improved treatment of diabetic complications.}, }
@article {pmid25880683, year = {2015}, author = {Lawson, B and Dastjerdi, A and Shah, S and Everest, D and Núñez, A and Pocknell, A and Hicks, D and Horton, DL and Cunningham, AA and Irvine, RM}, title = {Mortality associated with avian reovirus infection in a free-living magpie (Pica pica) in Great Britain.}, journal = {BMC veterinary research}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {20}, pmid = {25880683}, issn = {1746-6148}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*pathology ; Fatal Outcome ; Female ; Orthoreovirus, Avian/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; *Passeriformes ; Phylogeny ; Reoviridae Infections/pathology/*veterinary ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Avian reoviruses (ARVs) cause a range of disease presentations in domestic, captive and free-living bird species. ARVs have been reported as a cause of significant disease and mortality in free-living corvid species in North America and continental Europe. Until this report, there have been no confirmed cases of ARV-associated disease in British wild birds.<br><br>CASE PRESENTATION: Sporadic individual magpie (Pica pica) mortality was detected at a single site in Buckinghamshire, England, April-September 2013. An adult female magpie was found moribund and subsequently died. Post-mortem examination identified hepatomegaly and splenomegaly as the most severe macroscopic abnormalities. Histopathological examination revealed extensive hepatic and splenic necrosis. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) identified virions of a size (circa 78&#xa0;nm diameter) and morphology consistent with ARV in both the liver and the small intestinal (SI) contents. Nucleic acid extracted from pooled liver and spleen was positive on both a pan-reovirus nested PCR targeting the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase gene and a PCR using primers specific to the ARV sigma C protein gene. Virus isolated from the liver and the SI contents was characterised by a syncytial-type cytopathic effect, a reovirus-like appearance on TEM and sequence identical to that from PCR of tissues. In situ hybridisation confirmed co-localisation of ARV with lesions in the liver and spleen, implicating ARV as the causative agent. Splenic lymphoid atrophy and necrotic stomatitis associated with Aspergillus fumigatus infection were consistent with generalised immunosuppression and resultant opportunistic infection.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The pathology and comprehensive virus investigations in this case indicate ARV as the primary pathogen in this magpie, with concurrent secondary infection subsequent to immunosuppression, as has been observed with reoviral infections in other bird species. ARV should be considered as a differential diagnosis for magpie, and potentially other corvid, disease and mortality incidents. This is the first demonstration of ARV-associated mortality in a wild bird in Britain. The prevalence and significance of ARV infection in British wild birds, and its implications for poultry and captive bird health, are currently unknown.}, }
@article {pmid25876887, year = {2015}, author = {Kalindi, SC and McBride, C and Tong, X and Wong, NL and Chung, KH and Lee, CY}, title = {Beyond phonological and morphological processing: pure copying as a marker of dyslexia in Chinese but not poor reading of English.}, journal = {Annals of dyslexia}, volume = {65}, number = {2}, pages = {53-68}, doi = {10.1007/s11881-015-0097-8}, pmid = {25876887}, issn = {1934-7243}, mesh = {Asian People/*psychology ; Awareness ; Child ; Dyslexia/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Female ; Hong Kong ; Humans ; *Imitative Behavior ; *Language ; Linguistics ; Male ; *Phonetics ; *Reading ; Reference Values ; *Semantics ; *Writing ; }, abstract = {To examine cognitive correlates of dyslexia in Chinese and reading difficulties in English as a foreign language, a total of 14 Chinese dyslexic children (DG), 16 poor readers of English (PE), and 17 poor readers of both Chinese and English (PB) were compared to a control sample (C) of 17 children, drawn from a statistically representative sample of 177 second graders. Children were tested on pure copying of unfamiliar stimuli, rapid automatized naming (RAN), phoneme deletion, syllable deletion, and morphological awareness. With children's ages and Raven's nonverbal reasoning statistically controlled, the PE and PB groups were significantly lower than the C group on phoneme deletion and RAN tasks, while the DG performed significantly better than the PB group on the RAN task. The copying task distinguished the DG group from the C group. Findings particularly highlight the importance of phoneme awareness for word reading in English (but not Chinese), the potential need for fluency training for children with reading difficulties in both Chinese and English, and the important role that copying skills could have specifically in understanding impairment of literacy skills in Chinese (but not English).}, }
@article {pmid25876841, year = {2015}, author = {Jacobs, IF and von Bayern, A and Martin-Ordas, G and Rat-Fischer, L and Osvath, M}, title = {Corvids create novel causal interventions after all.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {282}, number = {1806}, pages = {20142504}, pmid = {25876841}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; *Cognition ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; *Learning ; Male ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, }
@article {pmid25875897, year = {2015}, author = {Rommel, AS and Rijsdijk, F and Greven, CU and Asherson, P and Kuntsi, J}, title = {A longitudinal twin study of the direction of effects between ADHD symptoms and IQ.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {10}, number = {4}, pages = {e0124357}, pmid = {25875897}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {G0500079/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; R01 HD059215/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; HD044454/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HD044454/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; HD059215/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; G0901245/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Age Factors ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/genetics/*physiopathology/psychology ; Child ; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ; Female ; Gene-Environment Interaction ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; *Models, Neurological ; Phenotype ; Twins, Dizygotic/psychology ; Twins, Monozygotic/psychology ; Vocabulary ; }, abstract = {While the negative association between ADHD symptoms and IQ is well documented, our knowledge about the direction and aetiology of this association is limited. Here, we examine the association of ADHD symptoms with verbal and performance IQ longitudinally in a population-based sample of twins. In a population-based sample of 4,771 twin pairs, DSM-IV ADHD symptoms were obtained from the Conners' Parent Rating Scale-Revised. Verbal (vocabulary) and performance (Raven's Progressive Matrices) IQ were assessed online. ADHD symptom ratings and IQ scores were obtained at ages 12, 14 and 16 years. Making use of the genetic sensitivity and time-ordered nature of our data, we use a cross-lagged model to examine the direction of effects, while modelling the aetiologies of the association between ADHD symptoms with vocabulary and Raven's scores over time. Although time-specific aetiological influences emerged for each trait at ages 14 and 16 years, the aetiological factors involved in the association between ADHD symptoms and IQ were stable over time. ADHD symptoms and IQ scores significantly predicted each other over time. ADHD symptoms at age 12 years were a significantly stronger predictor of vocabulary and Raven's scores at age 14 years than vice versa, whereas no differential predictive effects emerged from age 14 to 16 years. The results suggest that ADHD symptoms may put adolescents at risk for decreased IQ scores. Persistent genetic influences seem to underlie the association of ADHD symptoms and IQ over time. Early intervention is likely to be key to reducing ADHD symptoms and the associated risk for lower IQ.}, }
@article {pmid25868525, year = {2016}, author = {Li, X and Lu, J and Lu, J and Hu, X and Huang, Z}, title = {The complete mitochondrial genome of the American crow, Corvus brachyrhynchos (Passeriformes, Corvidae).}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part A, DNA mapping, sequencing, and analysis}, volume = {27}, number = {6}, pages = {4213-4214}, doi = {10.3109/19401736.2015.1022745}, pmid = {25868525}, issn = {2470-1408}, mesh = {Animals ; Avian Proteins/genetics ; Crows/*genetics ; *Genome, Mitochondrial ; Mitochondrial Proteins/genetics ; *Phylogeny ; RNA/genetics ; RNA, Mitochondrial ; RNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; RNA, Transfer/genetics ; }, abstract = {The American crow, Corvus brachyrhynchos (Passeriformes, Corvidae), is a large passerine bird species closely related to the raven. Herein, we first published the complete mitochondrial genome of American crows. The mitogenome was 16,917 bp long, and composed of 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, two rRNA genes, and one putative control region. Most protein-coding genes started with a traditional ATG codon except for COI, which initiated with an infrequent start codon GTG instead, and terminated with the mitochondria stop codon (TAA/AGG/AGA) or a single T base. The mitogenome structural organization is identical to that of the other corvus species and related genera. The overall GC content is 44.25% which is lower than AT. Using the 12 protein-coding genes of Corvus brachyrhynchos in this study, together with 10 other closely species, we constructed the species phylogenetic tree to verify the accuracy and utility of new determined mitogenome sequences. We expect that using the full mitogenome to address taxonomic issues and study the related evolution events. Moreover, this is the first report of bird mitogenomes after 48 avian species genome project achievements released in December 2014.}, }
@article {pmid25862434, year = {2015}, author = {Becker, A and Rothenberger, A and Sohn, A and Ravens-Sieberer, U and Klasen, F and , }, title = {Erratum to: Six years ahead: a longitudinal analysis regarding course and predictive value of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) in children and adolescents.}, journal = {European child &amp; adolescent psychiatry}, volume = {24}, number = {6}, pages = {727}, doi = {10.1007/s00787-015-0706-4}, pmid = {25862434}, issn = {1435-165X}, abstract = {Erratum to: Eur Child Adolesc PsychiatryDOI 10.1007/s00787‑014‑0640‑x Unfortunately, the names of two authors, Ulrike Ravens- Sieberer and Fionna Klasen, were omitted in the original publication of the article. Please find the correct author list below:Andreas Becker · Aribert Rothenberger · Alexander Sohn · Ulrike Ravens-Sieberer · Fionna Klasen · The BELLA study group}, }
@article {pmid25860978, year = {2015}, author = {Lee, H and Boot, WR and Baniqued, PL and Voss, MW and Prakash, RS and Basak, C and Kramer, AF}, title = {The relationship between intelligence and training gains is moderated by training strategy.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {10}, number = {4}, pages = {e0123259}, pmid = {25860978}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Learning ; Male ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Teaching/*methods ; Video Games/*psychology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {We examined the relationship between training regimen and fluid intelligence in the learning of a complex video game. Fifty non-game-playing young adults were trained on a game called Space Fortress for 30 hours with one of two training regimens: (1) Hybrid Variable-Priority Training (HVT), with part-task training and a focus on improving specific skills and managing task priorities, and (2) Full Emphasis Training (FET) in which participants practiced the whole game to obtain the highest overall score. Fluid intelligence was measured with the Raven's Progressive Matrix task before training. With FET, fluid intelligence was positively associated with learning, suggesting that intellectual ability played a substantial role in determining individual differences in training success. In contrast, with HVT, fluid intelligence was not associated with learning, suggesting that individual differences in fluid intelligence do not factor into training success in a regimen that emphasizes component tasks and flexible task coordination. By analyzing training effects in terms of individual differences and training regimens, the current study offers a training approach that minimizes the potentially limiting effect of individual differences.}, }
@article {pmid25851196, year = {2015}, author = {Betancourt, &#xd3; and Tapia, M and Méndez, I}, title = {Decline of General Intelligence in Children Exposed to Manganese from Mining Contamination in Puyango River Basin, Southern Ecuador.}, journal = {EcoHealth}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, pages = {453-460}, pmid = {25851196}, issn = {1612-9210}, mesh = {Child ; Ecuador ; Environmental Exposure/*adverse effects/analysis ; Female ; Hair/chemistry ; Humans ; Intelligence/*drug effects ; Male ; Manganese/*toxicity ; Maternal Exposure/adverse effects ; *Mining ; Psychological Techniques ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis ; }, abstract = {Based on ecosystem approaches to health (Ecohealth), this study sought to identify neurobehavioral disorders in children exposed to several levels of toxic metal pollution from gold mining in the Puyango River Basin, Southern Ecuador. Ninety-three children born or living in the study area participated in the study. A neurobehavioral test battery consisting of 12 tests assessing various functions of the nervous system was applied as well as a questionnaire regarding events of exposure of children's mothers to contaminants during perinatal period. Hair samples were taken from children to determine manganese concentrations. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied in order to examine possible relationships between exposure events, hair manganese, and neurobehavioral disorders. Having controlled co-variables such as age and educational level, it was found that children with elevated levels of hair manganese (over 2 μg/g) had poor performance in the test of general intelligence (Raven's Progressive Color Matrices Scale PCM). The Ecohealth approach helped to identify that children in the lower Puyango Basin with very elevated levels of manganese in the river water (970 µg/L) are the ones who have the highest levels of hair manganese and the worst performance in the intelligence test.}, }
@article {pmid25848955, year = {2015}, author = {Gelb, AF}, title = {Giants in chest medicine: Jay A. Nadel, MD.}, journal = {Chest}, volume = {147}, number = {4}, pages = {880-882}, doi = {10.1378/chest.14-2901}, pmid = {25848955}, issn = {1931-3543}, mesh = {Biomedical Research/*history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Pulmonary Medicine/*history ; Societies, Medical/*history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid25845783, year = {2015}, author = {Watts, G}, title = {Wayne Jay Katon.}, journal = {Lancet (London, England)}, volume = {385}, number = {9974}, pages = {1176}, doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(15)60625-0}, pmid = {25845783}, issn = {1474-547X}, mesh = {Community Mental Health Services/history/organization &amp; administration ; Delivery of Health Care, Integrated/*history/organization &amp; administration ; District of Columbia ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Interinstitutional Relations ; Portraits as Topic ; Psychiatry/*history ; }, }
@article {pmid25845682, year = {2015}, author = {Siegel, JS}, title = {Half a century of the Bürgenstock Conference: a pilgrim's tale.}, journal = {Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English)}, volume = {54}, number = {17}, pages = {4974-4975}, doi = {10.1002/anie.201501954}, pmid = {25845682}, issn = {1521-3773}, abstract = {"…︁ The Bürgenstock program always allows for important scientific discussion. It is clear that this meeting is valuable for the scientific community as it is on one hand important for its deep historical significance, and on the other hand crucial for what it preserves of great scientific tradition for future generations. Every meeting contained a lesson learned and further brought together the family of stereochemists …︁" Read more in the Editorial by Jay S. Siegel.}, }
@article {pmid25844471, year = {2014}, author = {Borzykh, OG and Zvereva, LV}, title = {[Comparison of the fungal complexes of the Japanese scallop Mizuhopecten yessoensis (Jay, 1856) from different areas of the Peter the Great Bay, Sea of Japan].}, journal = {Mikrobiologiia}, volume = {83}, number = {5}, pages = {599-604}, pmid = {25844471}, issn = {0026-3656}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biodiversity ; *Fungi/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Oceans and Seas ; Pectinidae/*microbiology ; *Phylogeny ; Siberia ; }, abstract = {Mycological investigation of the Japanese scallop Mizuhopecten yessoensis (Jay) (Bivalvia) collected in different areas of the Peter the Great Bay, Sea of Japan, was carried out. A total of 72 species of filamentous fungi belonging to 30 genera of ascomycetes, anamorphous fungi, and zygomycetes was isolated from the internal organs of the scallop. The species.diversity of mycelial fungi in the internal organs, especially of members of the generaAspergillus, Penicillium, Cladosporium, and Chaetomium, was found to increase in polluted coastal waters.}, }
@article {pmid25843040, year = {2015}, author = {Shyaka, A and Kusumoto, A and Chaisowwong, W and Okouchi, Y and Fukumoto, S and Yoshimura, A and Kawamoto, K}, title = {Virulence characterization of Campylobacter jejuni isolated from resident wild birds in Tokachi area, Japan.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {77}, number = {8}, pages = {967-972}, pmid = {25843040}, issn = {1347-7439}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/*microbiology ; Birds/*microbiology ; Caco-2 Cells/microbiology ; Campylobacter jejuni/*isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity ; Cloaca/microbiology ; Columbidae/microbiology ; Crows/microbiology ; Disease Reservoirs/microbiology ; Humans ; Japan ; Sparrows/microbiology ; }, abstract = {The prevalence of Campylobacter jejuni in wild birds is a potential hazard for human and animal health. The aim of this study was to establish the prevalence of C. jejuni in wild birds in Tokachi area, Hokkaido, Japan and investigate their virulence in vitro. In total, 173 cloacal swabs from individual wild birds were collected for the detection of Campylobacter spp. Thirty four samples (19.7%) were positive for Campylobacter of which 94.1% (32/34 samples) were C. jejuni. Additionally, one C. coli and one C. fetus were isolated. Seven C. jejuni isolates (one from crows and the other from pigeons) had important virulence genes including all three CDT genes (cdtA, cdtB and cdtC) and flaA, flaB, ciaB and cadF, and the other isolates were lacking cdtA gene. Further studies on in vitro virulence-associated phenotypes, such as motility assay on soft agar and invasion assay in Caco-2 cells, were performed. The wild bird C. jejuni isolates adhered and invaded human cells. Although the numbers of viable intracellular bacteria of wild bird isolates were lower than a type strain NCTC11168, they persisted at 48-hr and underwent replication in host cells.}, }
@article {pmid25834463, year = {2015}, author = {Pavicic, T and Prager, W and Klöppel, M and Ravichandran, S and Galatoire, O}, title = {IncobotulinumtoxinA use in aesthetic indications in daily practice: a European multicenter, noninterventional, retrospective study.}, journal = {Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {135-142}, pmid = {25834463}, issn = {1178-7015}, abstract = {PURPOSE: To characterize utilization patterns and treatment satisfaction with incobotulinumtoxinA for aesthetic indications and assess adherence to the Summary of Product Characteristics.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: Data were collected retrospectively from physicians in Germany, France, and the UK regarding patients (n=638) treated with incobotulinumtoxinA for aesthetic indications. Data on indication, treatment interval, dose injected, physician and patient satisfaction, and adverse drug reactions were recorded according to routine daily practice.<br><br>RESULTS: Most patients (76.0%) received incobotulinumtoxinA for glabellar frown lines (GFL) and were given doses of &#x2264;20 U. The majority of treatment intervals were 5 months or longer. Overall, 64.1% of patients were treated for off-label indications, sometimes in combination with treatment for GFL. The most frequently treated off-label indications were horizontal forehead lines (38.6%) and/or crow's feet (CF; 31.7%); for CF, >95% of injected doses were &#x2264;24 U. In Germany, a smaller proportion of patients were given incobotulinumtoxinA treatment for CF (27.6%), compared with France (40.4%) and the UK (33.2%), although country-specific differences were less prominent when treatment cycle data for CF were examined. Treatment satisfaction among physicians and patients (overall, and for GFL specifically) was very high, with excellent tolerability and only one mild adverse drug reaction reported.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In daily practice, incobotulinumtoxinA is mainly used for GFL; however, its use for CF and horizontal forehead lines (often in combination with GFL) is relatively common. Treatment satisfaction across aesthetic indications is high, and incobotulinumtoxinA is well tolerated, with time intervals of 5 months or longer between injections in the majority of cases. When considering factors such as dose and treatment interval, adherence to the Summary of Product Characteristics when treating GFL in daily practice is good. These results support previous reports that incobotulinumtoxinA is an effective treatment for GFL, with an excellent safety profile. Furthermore, incobotulinumtoxinA may display efficacy and tolerability in other indications.}, }
@article {pmid25829440, year = {2015}, author = {Long, Y and Smet, W and Cruz-Ramírez, A and Castelijns, B and de Jonge, W and Mähönen, AP and Bouchet, BP and Perez, GS and Akhmanova, A and Scheres, B and Blilou, I}, title = {Arabidopsis BIRD Zinc Finger Proteins Jointly Stabilize Tissue Boundaries by Confining the Cell Fate Regulator SHORT-ROOT and Contributing to Fate Specification.}, journal = {The Plant cell}, volume = {27}, number = {4}, pages = {1185-1199}, pmid = {25829440}, issn = {1532-298X}, mesh = {Arabidopsis/*cytology/*metabolism ; Arabidopsis Proteins/genetics/*metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant/genetics/physiology ; Meristem/*cytology/metabolism ; Plant Roots/cytology/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Plant cells cannot rearrange their positions; therefore, sharp tissue boundaries must be accurately programmed. Movement of the cell fate regulator SHORT-ROOT from the stele to the ground tissue has been associated with transferring positional information across tissue boundaries. The zinc finger BIRD protein JACKDAW has been shown to constrain SHORT-ROOT movement to a single layer, and other BIRD family proteins were postulated to counteract JACKDAW's role in restricting SHORT-ROOT action range. Here, we report that regulation of SHORT-ROOT movement requires additional BIRD proteins whose action is critical for the establishment and maintenance of the boundary between stele and ground tissue. We show that BIRD proteins act in concert and not in opposition. The exploitation of asymmetric redundancies allows the separation of two BIRD functions: constraining SHORT-ROOT spread through nuclear retention and transcriptional regulation of key downstream SHORT-ROOT targets, including SCARECROW and CYCLIND6. Our data indicate that BIRD proteins promote formative divisions and tissue specification in the Arabidopsis thaliana root meristem ground tissue by tethering and regulating transcriptional competence of SHORT-ROOT complexes. As a result, a tissue boundary is not "locked in" after initial patterning like in many animal systems, but possesses considerable developmental plasticity due to continuous reliance on mobile transcription factors.}, }
@article {pmid25829100, year = {2015}, author = {Singh, D and Mattoo, SK and Grover, S and Kohli, A}, title = {Effect of co-morbid depression on neurocognitive functioning in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder: a study from India.}, journal = {East Asian archives of psychiatry : official journal of the Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists = Dong Ya jing shen ke xue zhi : Xianggang jing shen ke yi xue yuan qi kan}, volume = {25}, number = {1}, pages = {3-15}, pmid = {25829100}, issn = {2224-7041}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Depression/*complications ; Female ; Humans ; India ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder/complications/*psychology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To study neuropsychological function in subjects with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) with and without co-morbid depression in comparison with healthy controls (HC).<br><br>METHODS: The 3 sample groups included subjects with OCD without depression (OCD group, n = 30); subjects with OCD and depression (OCDD group, n = 20); and HC (n = 25). All 3 groups were matched for age, gender, and years of education, and they were assessed on the following: Trail Making Tests A and B, Verbal Fluency Test, PGI Memory Scale, Stroop test, Tower of London Test, Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, and the Object Alternation Test.<br><br>RESULTS: Both OCD and OCDD groups performed more poorly than HC, whereas the OCDD group performed worse than OCD group. Besides, OCD and OCDD groups had significantly poorer performance on tests of attention, memory, executive functions, verbal fluency, and intelligence. The OCDD group performed worse than the OCD group notably on Verbal Fluency Test, PGI memory test, and Object Alternation Test.<br><br>CONCLUSION: On tests of neurocognitive functioning, the performance of the OCDD group was poorer than the OCD group, and both performed poorer than HC, suggesting that OCD is associated with neurocognitive dysfunction and that this is exacerbated in the presence of depression.}, }
@article {pmid25828040, year = {2015}, author = {Narurkar, V and Shamban, A and Sissins, P and Stonehouse, A and Gallagher, C}, title = {Facial treatment preferences in aesthetically aware women.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {41 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {S153-60}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000000293}, pmid = {25828040}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; *Choice Behavior ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Esthetics ; *Face ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Rejuvenation ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Individuals typically self-identify symptoms of facial aging that lead them to seek facial aesthetic treatments. No systematic data exist to describe preferences for facial areas requiring treatment.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To determine (1) the facial areas most likely to be treated first, (2) the relationship between the most bothersome facial area and the area first planned for treatment, and (3) differences between younger and older women.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 603 women aged 30 to 65 years considering aesthetic treatments participated in an online research survey using Maximum Difference scaling.<br><br>RESULTS: Maximum Difference analysis revealed that crow's feet lines (CFLs) were most likely to be treated first (82% of the first preferences), followed by oral commissures (74%) and tear troughs (72%). There was a strong correlation between the most bothersome facial area and the area first planned for treatment. In women younger than 45 years, features of the upper face were more likely to be treated first, whereas women aged 50 years or older had an increased preference for treating features of the lower face, with a reduction in preference for upper face treatment.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This cross-sectional survey suggests that aesthetically oriented women have changing facial treatment preferences with age; however, CFLs are of most concern.}, }
@article {pmid25822067, year = {2015}, author = {Klein, RM and Dilchert, S and Ones, DS and Dages, KD}, title = {Cognitive predictors and age-based adverse impact among business executives.}, journal = {The Journal of applied psychology}, volume = {100}, number = {5}, pages = {1497-1510}, doi = {10.1037/a0038991}, pmid = {25822067}, issn = {1939-1854}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Aging/*physiology ; Aptitude/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Processes/*physiology ; Middle Aged ; *Personnel Selection ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Age differences on measures of general mental ability and specific cognitive abilities were examined in 2 samples of job applicants to executive positions as well as a mix of executive/nonexecutive positions to determine which predictors might lead to age-based adverse impact in making selection and advancement decisions. Generalizability of the pattern of findings was also investigated in 2 samples from the general adult population. Age was negatively related to general mental ability, with older executives scoring lower than younger executives. For specific ability components, the direction and magnitude of age differences depended on the specific ability in question. Older executives scored higher on verbal ability, a measure most often associated with crystallized intelligence. This finding generalized across samples examined in this study. Also, consistent with findings that fluid abilities decline with age, older executives scored somewhat lower on figural reasoning than younger executives, and much lower on a letter series test of inductive reasoning. Other measures of inductive reasoning, such as Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices, also showed similar age group mean differences across settings. Implications for employee selection and adverse impact on older job candidates are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid25821389, year = {2015}, author = {Gong, Y and Hu, D and Hannaford, B and Seibel, EJ}, title = {Toward real-time endoscopically-guided robotic navigation based on a 3D virtual surgical field model.}, journal = {Proceedings of SPIE--the International Society for Optical Engineering}, volume = {9415}, number = {}, pages = {94150C}, pmid = {25821389}, issn = {0277-786X}, support = {R01 EB016457/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {The challenge is to accurately guide the surgical tool within the three-dimensional (3D) surgical field for robotically-assisted operations such as tumor margin removal from a debulked brain tumor cavity. The proposed technique is 3D image-guided surgical navigation based on matching intraoperative video frames to a 3D virtual model of the surgical field. A small laser-scanning endoscopic camera was attached to a mock minimally-invasive surgical tool that was manipulated toward a region of interest (residual tumor) within a phantom of a debulked brain tumor. Video frames from the endoscope provided features that were matched to the 3D virtual model, which were reconstructed earlier by raster scanning over the surgical field. Camera pose (position and orientation) is recovered by implementing a constrained bundle adjustment algorithm. Navigational error during the approach to fluorescence target (residual tumor) is determined by comparing the calculated camera pose to the measured camera pose using a micro-positioning stage. From these preliminary results, computation efficiency of the algorithm in MATLAB code is near real-time (2.5 sec for each estimation of pose), which can be improved by implementation in C++. Error analysis produced 3-mm distance error and 2.5 degree of orientation error on average. The sources of these errors come from 1) inaccuracy of the 3D virtual model, generated on a calibrated RAVEN robotic platform with stereo tracking; 2) inaccuracy of endoscope intrinsic parameters, such as focal length; and 3) any endoscopic image distortion from scanning irregularities. This work demonstrates feasibility of micro-camera 3D guidance of a robotic surgical tool.}, }
@article {pmid25804972, year = {2015}, author = {Amin, OM and Heckmann, RA and Wilson, E and Keele, B and Khan, A}, title = {The description of Centrorhynchus globirostris n. sp. (Acanthocephala: Centrorhynchidae) from the pheasant crow, Centropus sinensis (Stephens) in Pakistan, with gene sequence analysis and emendation of the family diagnosis.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {114}, number = {6}, pages = {2291-2299}, pmid = {25804972}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Acanthocephala/*anatomy &amp; histology/*classification ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology ; Birds ; Helminthiasis, Animal/epidemiology/*parasitology ; Pakistan/epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; Sequence Analysis ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {A new species of Centrorhynchus (Centrorhynchidae) with receptacle insertion at the posterior third of the proboscis is described from the pheasant crow Centropus sinensis (Stephens) (Cuculidae) in Pakistan. Centrorhynchu sglobirostris n. sp. is similar to the 98 other known species of Centrorhynchus Lühe, 1911 in having long cylindrical trunk with anterior dilation and transverse anastomoses of the secondary lacunar vessels. However, specimens of C. globirostris differ from all other species of the genus by having a unique globular proboscis not divided into anterior proboscis with rooted hooks and posterior proboscis with rootless spines. Posterior hooks of C. globirostris emerge at the level of the receptacle insertion and are uniquely fully rooted. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of C. globirostris 18S and 28S ribosomal RNA genes reveals the genetic and evolutionary relationships between C. globirostris and other members of Centrorhynchidae which have representative orthologs in public databases. Comparison to known acanthocephalans confirms appropriate inclusion in the genus Centrorhynchus.}, }
@article {pmid25802816, year = {2015}, author = {Eimes, JA and Townsend, AK and Sepil, I and Nishiumi, I and Satta, Y}, title = {Patterns of evolution of MHC class II genes of crows (Corvus) suggest trans-species polymorphism.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {3}, number = {}, pages = {e853}, pmid = {25802816}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {A distinguishing characteristic of genes that code for the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is that alleles often share more similarity between, rather than within species. There are two likely mechanisms that can explain this pattern: convergent evolution and trans-species polymorphism (TSP), in which ancient allelic lineages are maintained by balancing selection and retained by descendant species. Distinguishing between these two mechanisms has major implications in how we view adaptation of immune genes. In this study we analyzed exon 2 of the MHC class IIB in three passerine bird species in the genus Corvus: jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos japonensis) American crows (C. brachyrhynchos) and carrion crows (C. corone orientalis). Carrion crows and American crows are recently diverged, but allopatric, sister species, whereas carrion crows and jungle crows are more distantly related but sympatric species, and possibly share pathogens linked to MHC IIB polymorphisms. These patterns of evolutionary divergence and current geographic ranges enabled us to test for trans-species polymorphism and convergent evolution of the MHC IIB in crows. Phylogenetic reconstructions of MHC IIB sequences revealed several well supported interspecific clusters containing all three species, and there was no biased clustering of variants among the sympatric carrion crows and jungle crows. The topologies of phylogenetic trees constructed from putatively selected sites were remarkably different than those constructed from putatively neutral sites. In addition, trees constructed using non-synonymous substitutions from a continuous fragment of exon 2 had more, and generally more inclusive, supported interspecific MHC IIB variant clusters than those constructed from the same fragment using synonymous substitutions. These phylogenetic patterns suggest that recombination, especially gene conversion, has partially erased the signal of allelic ancestry in these species. While clustering of positively selected amino acids by supertyping revealed a single supertype shared by only jungle and carrion crows, a pattern consistent with convergence, the overall phylogenetic patterns we observed suggest that TSP, rather than convergence, explains the interspecific allelic similarity of MHC IIB genes in these species of crows.}, }
@article {pmid25801732, year = {2016}, author = {Yoo, MA and Seo, YK and Shin, MK and Koh, JS}, title = {How much related to skin wrinkles between facial and body site? Age-related changes in skin wrinkle on the knee assessed by skin bioengineering techniques.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {69-74}, doi = {10.1111/srt.12230}, pmid = {25801732}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Adiposity/physiology ; Adult ; Aged ; Aging/*pathology/*physiology ; Biomedical Engineering/methods ; Dermoscopy/methods ; Elastic Modulus/physiology ; Face/*pathology/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional/methods ; Knee/pathology/*physiology ; Middle Aged ; Skin Aging/*physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Skin aging has been focused the wrinkle on the face than on the body, so most studies have been studied the change in Crow's feet for ages. Only little is known about the age-dependent changes of wrinkles on body sites. The aim of this study was to establish new grading criteria for severity of wrinkles on knees and to investigate the relationship of wrinkle severity with age- and site-dependent.<br><br>METHODS: The skin on the knee of 38 healthy Korean female volunteers, divided into two groups young and old, were photographed. Standard photograph for body wrinkle was established (grade 0~7), and then visual assessment, skin wrinkle, and skin elasticity were evaluated on Crow's feet and the knee. We examined for any significant differences and the correlation of skin aging parameters with age and two different sites.<br><br>RESULTS: Skin wrinkle severity with standard photograph and wrinkle parameters (Ra, Rmax, Rz, and Rv) had a significantly positive correlation with age-dependent on the knee (P < 0.001). Also, skin elastic parameters (R2, R5, R6, R7, and Q1) showed a significant negative correlation with age on the knee (P < 0.001). Skin wrinkle severity with standard photograph was highly correlated with all skin wrinkle parameters and skin elastic parameters (R2, R5, R7, and Q1) on the knee (P < 0.001). In addition, all the skin aging parameters on the knee were significantly correlated with Crow's feet (P < 0.01). Skin aging on the knee had the same tendency as the Crow's feet.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study has shown the new grading criteria of wrinkles on the knee. Skin wrinkle and elasticity on the knee are age-dependent related and aging on the knee is highly related to Crow's feet. Those parameters are using a quantitative method to evaluate body aging. Also, the knee is considered that it could be a suitable site to evaluate body aging.}, }
@article {pmid25796498, year = {2018}, author = {Richards, CL and Broadaway, SC and Eggers, MJ and Doyle, J and Pyle, BH and Camper, AK and Ford, TE}, title = {Detection of Pathogenic and Non-pathogenic Bacteria in Drinking Water and Associated Biofilms on the Crow Reservation, Montana, USA.}, journal = {Microbial ecology}, volume = {76}, number = {1}, pages = {52-63}, pmid = {25796498}, issn = {1432-184X}, support = {P20 MD002317/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; P20 RR016455/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Alaska Natives ; Animals ; Bacteria/classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification/*pathogenicity ; Bacterial Load ; *Biofilms ; Drinking Water/*microbiology ; Environmental Monitoring ; Feces/microbiology ; Groundwater/microbiology ; Helicobacter/classification/isolation &amp; purification ; Heterotrophic Processes ; Humans ; Indians, North American ; Legionella/classification/isolation &amp; purification ; Montana ; Mycobacterium/classification/isolation &amp; purification ; *Water Microbiology ; Water Quality ; Water Supply ; }, abstract = {Private residences in rural areas with water systems that are not adequately regulated, monitored, and updated could have drinking water that poses a health risk. To investigate water quality on the Crow Reservation in Montana, water and biofilm samples were collected from 57 public buildings and private residences served by either treated municipal or individual groundwater well systems. Bacteriological quality was assessed including detection of fecal coliform bacteria and heterotrophic plate count (HPC) as well as three potentially pathogenic bacterial genera, Mycobacterium, Legionella, and Helicobacter. All three target genera were detected in drinking water systems on the Crow Reservation. Species detected included the opportunistic and frank pathogens Mycobacterium avium, Mycobacterium gordonae, Mycobacterium flavescens, Legionella pneumophila, and Helicobacter pylori. Additionally, there was an association between HPC bacteria and the presence of Mycobacterium and Legionella but not the presence of Helicobacter. This research has shown that groundwater and municipal drinking water systems on the Crow Reservation can harbor potential bacterial pathogens.}, }
@article {pmid25789814, year = {2015}, author = {Kane, MA and Cox, SE and Jones, D and Lei, X and Gallagher, CJ}, title = {Heterogeneity of crow's feet line patterns in clinical trial subjects.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {41}, number = {4}, pages = {447-456}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000000336}, pmid = {25789814}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Acetylcholine Release Inhibitors/administration &amp; dosage ; Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Cosmetic Techniques ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Patient Satisfaction ; *Self Concept ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Patterns of crow's feet lines (CFLs) vary among individuals.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To characterize distribution and predictors of CFL patterns.<br><br>METHODS: Patterns of CFLs (full fan, lower fan, central fan, and upper fan) were evaluated at maximum smile and at rest from photographs of subjects with moderate-to-severe CFLs. Relationships between CFL pattern and severity, age, gender, and subject-reported outcomes were explored.<br><br>RESULTS: Evaluations of 2,699 photographs from 1,392 subjects were conducted; 1,389 and 1,310 had evaluable CFL patterns at maximum smile and at rest, respectively. Lower-fan, central-fan, and full-fan patterns were identified in 28.4% to 34.7% at maximum smile and 27.7% to 33.9% at rest; upper fan was found in &#x223c;5%. The pattern distribution of CFLs demonstrated a relationship to baseline CFL severity, age, and gender; full-fan and lower-fan patterns were more common in severe versus moderate CFL at maximum smile; full fan increased with age. Lower fan was more common in males. Subjects with full fan at maximum smile were most dissatisfied with their appearance and perceived themselves to look older versus other patterns.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Baseline CFL severity, age, and gender may predict fan pattern. Patterns may progress with age from central to lower fan or full fan. Pattern heterogeneity of CFLs suggests that tailored treatment may be warranted.}, }
@article {pmid25787714, year = {2016}, author = {Gunnery, SD and Ruben, MA}, title = {Perceptions of Duchenne and non-Duchenne smiles: A meta-analysis.}, journal = {Cognition &amp; emotion}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {501-515}, doi = {10.1080/02699931.2015.1018817}, pmid = {25787714}, issn = {1464-0600}, mesh = {Humans ; Photic Stimulation ; *Smiling ; *Social Perception ; }, abstract = {A meta-analysis was conducted to compare perceptions of Duchenne smiles, smiles that include activation of the cheek raiser muscle that creates crow's feet around the eyes, with perceptions of non-Duchenne smiles, smiles without cheek raiser activation. In addition to testing the overall effect, moderator analyses were conducted to test how methodological, stimulus-specific and perceiver-specific differences between studies predicted the overall effect size. The meta-analysis found that, overall, Duchenne smiles and people producing Duchenne smiles are rated more positively (i.e., authentic, genuine, real, attractive, trustworthy) than non-Duchenne smiles and people producing non-Duchenne smiles. The difference between Duchenne and non-Duchenne smiles was greater when the stimuli were videos rather than photographs, when smiles were elicited naturally rather than through posing paradigms and when Duchenne and non-Duchenne smiles were not matched for intensity of the lip corner puller in addition to other perceiver and methodological moderators.}, }
@article {pmid25785685, year = {2015}, author = {So, WC and Lui, M and Wong, TK and Sit, LT}, title = {The use of hand gestures to communicate about nonpresent objects in mind among children with autism spectrum disorder.}, journal = {Journal of speech, language, and hearing research : JSLHR}, volume = {58}, number = {2}, pages = {373-382}, doi = {10.1044/2015_JSLHR-L-14-0213}, pmid = {25785685}, issn = {1558-9102}, mesh = {Autism Spectrum Disorder/*psychology ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Female ; *Gestures ; Hand ; Humans ; Male ; Nonverbal Communication/*psychology ; *Semantics ; Sign Language ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: The current study examined whether children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), in comparison with typically developing children, perceive and produce gestures to identify nonpresent objects (i.e., referent-identifying gestures), which is crucial for communicating ideas in a discourse.<br><br>METHOD: An experimenter described the uses of daily-life objects to 6- to 12-year-old children both orally and with gestures. The children were then asked to describe how they performed daily activities using those objects.<br><br>RESULTS: All children gestured. A gesture identified a nonpresent referent if it was produced in the same location that had previously been established by the experimenter. Children with ASD gestured at the specific locations less often than typically developing children. Verbal and spatial memory were positively correlated with the ability to produce referent-identifying gestures for all children. However, the positive correlation between Raven's Children Progressive Matrices score and the production of referent-identifying gestures was found only in children with ASD.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Children with ASD might be less able to perceive and produce referent-identifying gestures and may rely more heavily on visual-spatial skills in producing referent-identifying gestures. The results have clinical implications for designing an intervention program to enhance the ability of children with ASD to communicate about nonpresent objects with gestures.}, }
@article {pmid25783683, year = {2015}, author = {Dietrich, EA and Bowen, RA and Brault, AC}, title = {An ex vivo avian leukocyte culture model for West Nile virus infection.}, journal = {Journal of virological methods}, volume = {218}, number = {}, pages = {19-22}, pmid = {25783683}, issn = {1879-0984}, support = {CC999999//Intramural CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/virology ; Cell Line ; Crows/*virology ; Leukocytes/*virology ; Virus Replication/*physiology ; West Nile Fever/veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) replicates in a wide variety of avian species, which act as amplification hosts. In particular, WNV generates high titers and elicits severe pathology in American crows (AMCRs; Corvus brachyrhynchos), a species that has been used as a sentinel for WNV transmission. Although the specific cellular targets of WNV replication in AMCRs are not well defined, preliminary evidence suggests that leukocytes may be an important target of early replication. Therefore, development of a protocol for ex vivo culture of AMCR leukocytes as a model for assessing differential avian host susceptibility is described herein. WNV growth in these cultures mirrored in vivo viremia profiles. These data indicate that ex vivo leukocyte cultures can be used for preliminary pathological assessment of novel WNV strains and potentially of other flaviviruses that use avian reservoir hosts.}, }
@article {pmid25775212, year = {2014}, author = {Asghar, M and Meitei, SY and Luxmi, Y and Achoubi, N and Meitei, KS and Murry, B and Sachdeva, MP and Saraswathy, KN}, title = {Opportunity for natural selection among five population groups of Manipur, North East India.}, journal = {Anthropologischer Anzeiger; Bericht uber die biologisch-anthropologische Literatur}, volume = {71}, number = {4}, pages = {369-380}, doi = {10.1127/0003-5548/2014/0394}, pmid = {25775212}, issn = {0003-5548}, mesh = {Anthropology, Physical ; Asian People/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; Fertility/*physiology ; Humans ; India ; Middle Aged ; *Selection, Genetic ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {Opportunity for natural selection among five population groups of Manipur in comparison with other North East Indian population has been studied. Crow's index as well as Johnston and Kensinger's index for natural selection were calculated based on differential fertility and mortality. The mortality component was found to be lower compared to fertility component in all the populations which may attribute to comparatively improved and easily accessible health care facilities. However, different selection pressures, artificial and natural, seem to be influencing the selection intensity through induced abortion and spontaneous abortion among the two non-tribal migrant groups: Bamon and Muslims, respectively. This study highlights the probable interaction of artificial and natural selection in determining the evolutionary fate of any population group.}, }
@article {pmid25774281, year = {2015}, author = {Courchesne, V and Meilleur, AA and Poulin-Lord, MP and Dawson, M and Soulières, I}, title = {Autistic children at risk of being underestimated: school-based pilot study of a strength-informed assessment.}, journal = {Molecular autism}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {12}, pmid = {25774281}, issn = {2040-2392}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: An important minority of school-aged autistic children, often characterized as 'nonverbal' or 'minimally verbal,' displays little or no spoken language. These children are at risk of being judged 'low-functioning' or 'untestable' via conventional cognitive testing practices. One neglected avenue for assessing autistic children so situated is to engage current knowledge of autistic cognitive strengths. Our aim was thus to pilot a strength-informed assessment of autistic children whose poor performance on conventional instruments suggests their cognitive potential is very limited.<br><br>METHODS: Thirty autistic children (6 to 12&#xa0;years) with little or no spoken language, attending specialized schools for autistic children with the highest levels of impairment, were assessed using Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-IV), Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices board form (RCPM), Children's Embedded Figures Test (CEFT), and a visual search task. An age-matched control group of 27 typical children was also assessed.<br><br>RESULTS: None of the autistic children could complete WISC-IV; only six completed any subtest. In contrast, 26 autistic children could complete RCPM, with 17 scoring between the 5th and 90th percentile. Twenty-seven autistic children completed the visual search task, while 26 completed CEFT, on which autistic children were faster than RCPM-matched typical children. Autistic performance on RCPM, CEFT, and visual search were correlated.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These results indicate that 'minimally verbal' or 'nonverbal' school-aged autistic children may be at risk of being underestimated: they may be wrongly regarded as having little cognitive potential. Our findings support the usefulness of strength-informed approaches to autism and have important implications for the assessment and education of autistic children.}, }
@article {pmid25752195, year = {2015}, author = {Kaur, S and Kizoulis, M and Fantasia, J and Oddos, T and Bigot, N and Galera, P and Tucker-Samaras, S and Leyden, JJ and Southall, MD}, title = {4-Hexyl-1,3-phenylenediol, a nuclear factor-κB inhibitor, improves photodamaged skin and clinical signs of ageing in a double-blinded, randomized controlled trial.}, journal = {The British journal of dermatology}, volume = {173}, number = {1}, pages = {218-226}, doi = {10.1111/bjd.13747}, pmid = {25752195}, issn = {1365-2133}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Cells, Cultured ; Collagen Type I/metabolism ; Dermatologic Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Double-Blind Method ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay ; Facial Dermatoses/*drug therapy ; Female ; Fibroblasts/drug effects ; Humans ; In Vitro Techniques ; Middle Aged ; NF-kappa B/*antagonists &amp; inhibitors ; Photosensitivity Disorders/*drug therapy ; Resorcinols/*administration &amp; dosage ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway is a key mediator of inflammation; however, few studies have examined the direct effects of NF-κB inhibition on the skin.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To investigate NF-&#x3ba;B activity in cultured human fibroblasts and to investigate the effects of 4-hexyl-1,3-phenylenediol (an NF-&#x3ba;B inhibitor) on elastin and collagen gene expression in vitro and on the clinical appearance of photodamaged skin.<br><br>METHODS: The amount and activity of NF-&#x3ba;B in human fibroblasts obtained from donors (17-78 years old) was measured after transfection with a NF-&#x3ba;B reporter and a luciferase promoter system. The expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) genes was determined using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Women with moderate skin photodamage were randomized to daily treatment with a topical lotion containing 4-hexyl-1,3-phenylenediol (n = 30) or vehicle (n = 29) for 8 weeks, with clinical assessments at baseline and weeks 2, 4 and 8.<br><br>RESULTS: Fibroblasts obtained from donors older than 50 years had higher NF-&#x3ba;B activity compared with cells from younger donors; inhibition of the NF-&#x3ba;B pathway with 4-hexyl-1,3-phenylenediol enhanced the expression of ECM genes. In women, treatment for 8 weeks with 4-hexyl-1,3-phenylenediol significantly improved crow's feet fine lines, cheek wrinkles, age spots, mottled pigmentation and radiance compared with both the vehicle and baseline. Furthermore, treatment with 4-hexyl-1,3-phenylenediol resulted in a twofold greater clinical improvement in overall photodamage compared with the vehicle group.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Inhibition of the proinflammatory NF-&#x3ba;B pathway resulted in increased expression of ECM proteins in vitro and significant clinical improvement in photodamaged skin.}, }
@article {pmid25738849, year = {2015}, author = {Randhawa, M and Rossetti, D and Leyden, JJ and Fantasia, J and Zeichner, J and Cula, GO and Southall, M and Tucker-Samaras, S}, title = {One-year topical stabilized retinol treatment improves photodamaged skin in a double-blind, vehicle-controlled trial.}, journal = {Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {271-280}, pmid = {25738849}, issn = {1545-9616}, mesh = {Administration, Topical ; Adult ; Double-Blind Method ; Drug Administration Schedule ; Female ; Humans ; Keratolytic Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Middle Aged ; Pilot Projects ; Skin Aging/*drug effects/*pathology ; Tretinoin/*administration &amp; dosage ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Retinol, a precursor of retinoic acid, has great potentials as a topical anti-aging molecule; however, only a handful of clinical investigations have been published to date.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of 0.1% stabilized retinol on photodamaged skin during a one-year treatment.<br><br>METHODS: The investigation included two 52-week, double-blind, vehicle-controlled studies. In the main study, 62 subjects applied either a stabilized retinol formulation or its vehicle to the full face. A second exploratory study evaluated histological/histochemical markers in 12 subjects after 52 weeks of either retinol or vehicle use on contralateral dorsal forearms.<br><br>RESULTS: The retinol group showed significant photodamage improvement over vehicle at all timepoints during the study. After 52 weeks, retinol had improved crow's feet fine lines by 44%, and mottled pigmentation by 84%, with over 50% of subjects showing +2 grades of improvement in many parameters. Additionally, at week 52, histochemical data confirmed the clinical results, showing increased expression of type I procollagen, hyaluronan, and Ki67 as compared to vehicle.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study confirms that a stabilized retinol (0.1%) formulation can significantly improve the signs of photoaging, and improvements in photodamage continue with prolonged use.}, }
@article {pmid25735769, year = {2015}, author = {Zhang, C and Ji, B and Mardinoglu, A and Nielsen, J and Hua, Q}, title = {Logical transformation of genome-scale metabolic models for gene level applications and analysis.}, journal = {Bioinformatics (Oxford, England)}, volume = {31}, number = {14}, pages = {2324-2331}, doi = {10.1093/bioinformatics/btv134}, pmid = {25735769}, issn = {1367-4811}, mesh = {Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/metabolism ; Cell Line, Tumor ; Computational Biology/*methods ; Computer Simulation ; Escherichia coli Proteins/*metabolism ; Genome, Bacterial ; Genome, Fungal ; Genome, Human ; Humans ; Liver Neoplasms/*metabolism ; *Metabolic Networks and Pathways ; *Models, Biological ; Programming Languages ; Saccharomyces cerevisiae Proteins/*metabolism ; Systems Biology/*methods ; }, abstract = {MOTIVATION: In recent years, genome-scale metabolic models (GEMs) have played important roles in areas like systems biology and bioinformatics. However, because of the complexity of gene-reaction associations, GEMs often have limitations in gene level analysis and related applications. Hence, the existing methods were mainly focused on applications and analysis of reactions and metabolites.<br><br>RESULTS: Here, we propose a framework named logic transformation of model (LTM) that is able to simplify the gene-reaction associations and enables integration with other developed methods for gene level applications. We show that the transformed GEMs have increased reaction and metabolite number as well as degree of freedom in flux balance analysis, but the gene-reaction associations and the main features of flux distributions remain constant. In addition, we develop two methods, OptGeneKnock and FastGeneSL by combining LTM with previously developed reaction-based methods. We show that the FastGeneSL outperforms exhaustive search. Finally, we demonstrate the use of the developed methods in two different case studies. We could design fast genetic intervention strategies for targeted overproduction of biochemicals and identify double and triple synthetic lethal gene sets for inhibition of hepatocellular carcinoma tumor growth through the use of OptGeneKnock and FastGeneSL, respectively.<br><br>Source code implemented in MATLAB, RAVEN toolbox and COBRA toolbox, is public available at https://sourceforge.net/projects/logictransformationofmodel.}, }
@article {pmid25722512, year = {2015}, author = {Rao, PA and Raman, V and Thomas, T and Ashok, MV}, title = {IQ in Autism: Is there an Alternative Global Cognitive Index?.}, journal = {Indian journal of psychological medicine}, volume = {37}, number = {1}, pages = {48-52}, pmid = {25722512}, issn = {0253-7176}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Intelligence quotient (IQ) but not the core symptoms have been known to predict outcomes in autism. Besides resource issues in India, assessing IQ in presence of autistic symptoms is challenging in general.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a pilot study, we explored different global indices of development in 30 children with confirmed autism. These included Wechsler intelligence scale for children or Wechsler preprimary scale of intelligence-revised (n = 10), Raven's progressive matrices (RPM) (n = 10), Vineland adaptive behavior scales II, parent report version (VABS) (n = 30) and teacher's estimate of mental age (TIQ) (n = 30). Three subgroups (Group A) with Wechsler's scales derived IQ (WISIQ), (Group B) with RPM derived IQ and (Group C) those without a formal IQ measure were compared.<br><br>RESULTS: All groups were comparable on age and their scores on Childhood Autism Rating Scale and Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism Adaptive behavior composite scores (Ad Bh composite) derived from VABS and WISIQ showed significant correlations with each other in Group A; TIQ significantly correlated with Ad Bh composite scores, but not with the WISIQ, although the latter two scores themselves did not significantly differ from each other. RPM consistently overestimated children's performance compared to Ad Bh composite or TIQ in Group B, but the Ad Bh composite and TIQ were themselves significantly correlated. In Group C, there were poor correlations between Ad Bh composite and TIQ. The Ad Bh composite score in this group was significantly different from the other two groups.<br><br>CONCLUSION: There is a need to fine tune the assessment for global cognitive measures in autism and explore their real world importance.}, }
@article {pmid25720292, year = {2014}, author = {Solov'ev, AN}, title = {[Breeding dynamic of corvids in urbanized landscapes of the European east].}, journal = {Izvestiia Akademii nauk. Seriia biologicheskaia}, volume = {}, number = {5}, pages = {529-538}, pmid = {25720292}, issn = {1026-3470}, mesh = {Animals ; Breeding ; Cities ; Crows/*physiology ; Homing Behavior/*physiology ; *Population Dynamics ; Russia ; }, abstract = {On the basis of counting and mapping of nests of the rook, hooded crow, and magpie in Kirov in 1975-2012, it was found that, under the conditions of an industrial city, rook colonies are highly unstable. The elimination of the private sector and neglected tree and scrub thickets leads to a reduction in the number of magpies nesting in the city. The nesting abundance of crows is limited by the quarter layout and placement of containers for household waste.}, }
@article {pmid25715478, year = {2014}, author = {El'chinova, GI and Vasil'eva, TA and El'kanova, LA and Revazova, IuA and Petrova, NV and Timkovskaia, EE and Zinchenko, RA}, title = {[Results of the population and genetic study in the Republic of Tatarstan].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {50}, number = {5}, pages = {619-624}, pmid = {25715478}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Asian People/*classification/genetics ; *Consanguinity ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Marriage ; Tatarstan ; }, abstract = {Using data on the distribution of frequent surnames, the Crow index and its components, and nine polymorphic DNA loci, it was shown that the Tatar population of the Republic of Tatarstan is divided into subethnic groups (Mishars, Teptyars, and Kazan Tatars). No subdivision within each of these groups was found.}, }
@article {pmid25709311, year = {2014}, author = {Namineni, S}, title = {Guest editorial.}, journal = {International journal of clinical pediatric dentistry}, volume = {7}, number = {3}, pages = {v}, pmid = {25709311}, issn = {0974-7052}, abstract = {At the start of this New Year, I would like to draw attention of pediatric dental fraternity at large toward Raven Maria Blanco Foundation, United States. This is a foundation established by parents of a young girl called Maria, who lost her life in pediatric dental Office, which was not prepared to handle an emergency arising from a procedural sedation for dental treatment. This is very heartening for any parent. It was so heart rending that Grammy award singer Michael Crawford popularly known as 'Magnedo7' penned a song called Raven's Song in her memory. This brings the focus on two important issues: sedation and emergency preparedness in our practices.(1.)}, }
@article {pmid25706432, year = {2014}, author = {Nourani, H and Dehkordi, HA and Soltani, S and Khosravi, M}, title = {First report of hepatic cysticercosis in a rook (Corvus frugilegus) (Passerifomes, Corvidae).}, journal = {Annals of parasitology}, volume = {60}, number = {4}, pages = {311-313}, pmid = {25706432}, issn = {2299-0631}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology/pathology ; *Crows ; Cysticercosis/parasitology/*veterinary ; Liver Diseases/parasitology/pathology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {Cysticercosis is an infection with the larval (cysticercus) stage of Taenia spp. that it is seen as cysts in various human and animal tissues. In this study, pathologic findings of hepatic cysticercosis in a rook (Corvus frugilegus) is described. To our knowledge, there is no report on hepatic cysticercosis in rook and this study shows that rooks may play a role as intermediate hosts in the transmission of parasitic infections.}, }
@article {pmid25700046, year = {2015}, author = {Healy, JM and Reisen, WK and Kramer, VL and Fischer, M and Lindsey, NP and Nasci, RS and Macedo, PA and White, G and Takahashi, R and Khang, L and Barker, CM}, title = {Comparison of the efficiency and cost of West Nile virus surveillance methods in California.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {15}, number = {2}, pages = {147-155}, pmid = {25700046}, issn = {1557-7759}, support = {F31AII08189//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; California/epidemiology ; Chickens/*virology ; Costs and Cost Analysis ; Culicidae/*virology ; Female ; Humans ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; Poultry Diseases/*epidemiology/virology ; Prevalence ; RNA, Viral/analysis ; Sentinel Surveillance ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Surveillance systems for West Nile virus (WNV) combine several methods to determine the location and timing of viral amplification. The value of each surveillance method must be measured against its efficiency and costs to optimize integrated vector management and suppress WNV transmission to the human population. Here we extend previous comparisons of WNV surveillance methods by equitably comparing the most common methods after standardization on the basis of spatial sampling density and costs, and by estimating optimal levels of sampling effort for mosquito traps and sentinel chicken flocks. In general, testing for evidence of viral RNA in mosquitoes and public-reported dead birds resulted in detection of WNV approximately 2-5 weeks earlier than serological monitoring of sentinel chickens at equal spatial sampling density. For a fixed cost, testing of dead birds reported by the public was found to be the most cost effective of the methods, yielding the highest number of positive results per $1000. Increased spatial density of mosquito trapping was associated with more precise estimates of WNV infection prevalence in mosquitoes. Our findings also suggested that the most common chicken flock size of 10 birds could be reduced to six to seven without substantial reductions in timeliness or sensitivity. We conclude that a surveillance system that uses the testing of dead birds reported by the public complemented by strategically timed mosquito and chicken sampling as agency resources allow would detect viral activity efficiently in terms of effort and costs, so long as susceptible bird species that experience a high mortality rate from infection with WNV, such as corvids, are present in the area.}, }
@article {pmid25698294, year = {2015}, author = {Sun, H and Chen, W and Wang, D and Jin, Y and Chen, X and Xu, Y and Huang, L}, title = {Inverse association between intelligence quotient and urinary retinol binding protein in Chinese school-age children with low blood lead levels: results from a cross-sectional investigation.}, journal = {Chemosphere}, volume = {128}, number = {}, pages = {155-160}, doi = {10.1016/j.chemosphere.2015.01.036}, pmid = {25698294}, issn = {1879-1298}, mesh = {Cadmium/blood ; Child ; China ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Lead/*blood ; Male ; Manganese/blood ; Mass Spectrometry ; Retinol-Binding Proteins/*urine ; Selenium/blood ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Examine the relationship between blood lead concentration and children's intelligence quotient (IQ) in Chinese children 8-12 years old.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study, and participants included 446 children from three primary schools in Jiangsu, China. We collected environmental and genetic information from questionnaires. Blood lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), cadmium (Cd) and selenium (Se) concentrations were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). IQ was assessed using the Combined Raven's Test and then converted to a standard IQ score according to Chinese children's norm. Morning urine samples were collected to measure retinol binding protein (RBP).<br><br>RESULTS: The average blood lead concentration was 33.13 &#x3bc;g L(-1) (geometric mean), and the blood lead concentration (BoxCox transform) was inversely and significantly associated with IQ (r=-0.11, p=0.02). The geometric mean of blood Mn, Cd and Se was 7.02 &#x3bc;g L(-1), 0.18 &#x3bc;g L(-1) and 94.77 &#x3bc;g L(-1), respectively. Blood Mn, Cd and Se showed no association with IQ, but all of them associated with urinary RBP. Urinary RBP was identified as a new factor associated with IQ (&#x3b2;=-6.49, p=0.011).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Urinary RBP was recognized as a new indicated factor associated with children's IQ. Mn, Cd and Se exposure might affect urinary RBP concentration and further IQ. Findings also support that blood lead concentrations in 8-12 years old children, even <44 &#x3bc;g L(-1), have a negative association with IQ.}, }
@article {pmid25697970, year = {2015}, author = {Petit, O and Dufour, V and Herrenschmidt, M and De Marco, A and Sterck, EH and Call, J}, title = {Inferences about food location in three cercopithecine species: an insight into the socioecological cognition of primates.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {18}, number = {4}, pages = {821-830}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-015-0848-2}, pmid = {25697970}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Appetitive Behavior ; Cercopithecinae/*psychology ; *Cognition ; Problem Solving ; *Social Behavior ; *Thinking ; }, abstract = {Many animal species use a variety of cognitive strategies to locate food resources. One strategy is to make inferences by exclusion, i.e., perceiving the absence of reward as a cue that another location should be investigated. The use of such advanced cognitive strategies may be more prominent in species that are known to frequently solve social challenges, and inferential reasoning has mainly been investigated in social species such as corvids, dogs, dolphins and non-human primates. In this paper, we investigate how far social intricacy may explain the disparity of reasoning performances observed in three cercopithecine species that differ in the density of their social network and the diversity of their social partners. We used standard reasoning tasks, testing the volume concept and inference by exclusion using visual and auditory modalities. We showed that Old World monkeys can infer the location of invisible food by exclusion. In addition, Tonkean macaques and olive baboons had greater performances in most tasks compared to rhesus macaques. These responses are consistent with the social complexity displayed by these three species. We suggest that the cognitive strategies required to navigate through a demanding social world are involved in the understanding of the physical domain.}, }
@article {pmid25697067, year = {2015}, author = {Rangmar, J and Sandberg, AD and Aronson, M and Fahlke, C}, title = {Cognitive and executive functions, social cognition and sense of coherence in adults with fetal alcohol syndrome.}, journal = {Nordic journal of psychiatry}, volume = {69}, number = {6}, pages = {472-478}, doi = {10.3109/08039488.2015.1009487}, pmid = {25697067}, issn = {1502-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Case-Control Studies ; Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/*psychology ; *Executive Function ; Female ; Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Sense of Coherence ; Social Behavior ; *Social Skills ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Primary disabilities in children with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) are the results of alcohol's teratogen effect on the fetal brain. Reduced cognitive and executive functions and social cognition are examples of such disabilities. Little is known about primary disabilities in adults with FAS as well as their sense of coherence (SoC). There is thus a need for knowledge about FAS in adulthood.<br><br>AIMS: To investigate cognitive and executive functions, social cognition and SoC in adults with FAS.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty adults with FAS (mean age: 30 years) were compared with 20 individuals matched on gender and age. Berg's Card-sorting Test-64, the Tower of Hanoi, Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, Digit Span, Faux Pas and the Swedish version of Antonovsky's Sense of Coherence Scale (SoC-29) were used.<br><br>RESULTS: The FAS group had a weak SoC and displayed deficits in the neuropsychological tests sensitive to cognitive and executive functions and social cognition. The FAS group's median SoC score was 112, lower than the comparison group's median of 133 (P < 0.001). The FAS group had median scores of 29.0 on Raven's Matrices. The median for Digit Span was 5 forwards and 3 backwards, lower than in the comparison group (P < 0.001).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Reduced cognitive and executive functions and impaired social cognition are assumed to have a major impact on life for adults with FAS. We suggest that the findings showing that adults with FAS had a weak SoC, with particularly low scores on the manageability scale, reflect their experiences of living with those primary disabilities.<br><br>CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: This study may enhance healthcare for individuals prenatally exposed to alcohol. In general, it contributes with knowledge about this group of individuals who need to be more visible in healthcare, and particularly, it demonstrates some of the neuropsychological disabilities they might have.}, }
@article {pmid25689114, year = {2015}, author = {Bobeva, A and Zehtindjiev, P and Ilieva, M and Dimitrov, D and Mathis, A and Bensch, S}, title = {Host preferences of ornithophilic biting midges of the genus Culicoides in the Eastern Balkans.}, journal = {Medical and veterinary entomology}, volume = {29}, number = {3}, pages = {290-296}, doi = {10.1111/mve.12108}, pmid = {25689114}, issn = {1365-2915}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/parasitology/*transmission ; Birds ; Bulgaria ; Ceratopogonidae/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Food Chain ; Haemosporida/physiology ; Insect Vectors/*physiology ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Protozoan Infections, Animal/parasitology/*transmission ; Spectrometry, Mass, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption-Ionization/veterinary ; }, abstract = {Many biting midges of the genus Culicoides Latreille, 1809 (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) are competent vectors of a diverse number of pathogens. The identification of their feeding behaviour and of vector-host associations is essential for understanding their transmission capacity. By applying two different nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays, of which one targeted the avian cyt b gene and the other targeted the COI gene of a wide range of vertebrates, we identified the blood hosts of six biting midge species including Culicoides circumscriptus, Culicoides festivipennis, Culicoides punctatus, Culicoides pictipennis, Culicoides alazanicus and Culicoides cf. griseidorsum, the latter two of which are reported in Bulgaria for the first time. Bird DNA was found in 50.6% of 95 investigated bloodmeals, whereas mammalian DNA was identified in 13.7%. Two Culicoides species were found to feed on both birds and mammals. There was remarkable diversity in the range of avian hosts: 23 species from four orders were identified in the abdomens of four Culicoides species. The most common bird species identified was the magpie, Pica pica (n = 7), which was registered in all four ornithophilic biting midge species. Six bloodmeals from the great tit, Parus major, were recorded only in C. alazanicus. None of the studied species of Culicoides appeared to be restricted to a single avian host.}, }
@article {pmid25688567, year = {2015}, author = {Campobello, D and Hare, JF and Sarà, M}, title = {Social phenotype extended to communities: expanded multilevel social selection analysis reveals fitness consequences of interspecific interactions.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {69}, number = {4}, pages = {916-925}, doi = {10.1111/evo.12629}, pmid = {25688567}, issn = {1558-5646}, mesh = {Animals ; Falconiformes/genetics/physiology ; *Genetic Fitness ; Nesting Behavior ; Passeriformes/genetics/physiology ; Phenotype ; *Reproduction ; *Selection, Genetic ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {In social species, fitness consequences are associated with both individual and social phenotypes. Social selection analysis has quantified the contribution of conspecific social traits to individual fitness. There has been no attempt, however, to apply a social selection approach to quantify the fitness implications of heterospecific social phenotypes. Here, we propose a novel social selection based approach integrating the role of all social interactions at the community level. We extended multilevel selection analysis by including a term accounting for the group phenotype of heterospecifics. We analyzed nest activity as a model social trait common to two species, the lesser kestrel (Falco naumanni) and jackdaw (Corvus monedula), nesting in either single- or mixed-species colonies. By recording reproductive outcome as a measure of relative fitness, our results reveal an asymmetric system wherein only jackdaw breeding performance was affected by the activity phenotypes of both conspecific and heterospecific neighbors. Our model incorporating heterospecific social phenotypes is applicable to animal communities where interacting species share a common social trait, thus allowing an assessment of the selection pressure imposed by interspecific interactions in nature. Finally, we discuss the potential role of ecological limitations accounting for random or preferential assortments among interspecific social phenotypes, and the implications of such processes to community evolution.}, }
@article {pmid25669761, year = {2016}, author = {Gonthier, C and Thomassin, N and Roulin, JL}, title = {The composite complex span: French validation of a short working memory task.}, journal = {Behavior research methods}, volume = {48}, number = {1}, pages = {233-242}, doi = {10.3758/s13428-015-0566-3}, pmid = {25669761}, issn = {1554-3528}, mesh = {Female ; France ; Humans ; Individuality ; Intelligence Tests/*standards ; Male ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Psychometrics ; Reading ; Reproducibility of Results ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Most studies in individual differences in the field of working memory research use complex span tasks to measure working memory capacity. Various complex span tasks based on different materials have been developed, and these tasks have proven both reliable and valid; several complex span tasks are often combined to provide a domain-general estimate of working memory capacity with even better psychometric properties. The present work sought to address two issues. Firstly, having participants perform several full-length complex span tasks in succession makes for a long and tedious procedure. Secondly, few complex span tasks have been translated and validated in French. We constructed a French working memory task labeled the Composite Complex Span (CCS). The CCS includes shortened versions of three classic complex span tasks: the reading span, symmetry span, and operation span. We assessed the psychometric properties of the CCS, including test-retest reliability and convergent validity, with Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices and with an alpha span task; the CCS demonstrated satisfying qualities in a sample of 1,093 participants. This work provides evidence that shorter versions of classic complex span tasks can yield valid working memory estimates. The materials and normative data for the CCS are also included.}, }
@article {pmid25666277, year = {2015}, author = {Peng, Y and Wu, JP and Tao, L and Mo, L and Zheng, XB and Tang, B and Luo, XJ and Mai, BX}, title = {Accumulation of Dechlorane Plus flame retardant in terrestrial passerines from a nature reserve in South China: the influences of biological and chemical variables.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {514}, number = {}, pages = {77-82}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2015.01.095}, pmid = {25666277}, issn = {1879-1026}, mesh = {Animals ; China ; Electronic Waste ; *Environmental Monitoring ; Environmental Pollutants/*metabolism ; Flame Retardants/*metabolism ; Hydrocarbons, Chlorinated/*metabolism ; Passeriformes/*metabolism ; Polycyclic Compounds/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Although a number of studies have addressed the bioaccumulation of Dechlorane Plus (DP) flame retardant in wildlife, few data are available on terrestrial organisms. This study examined the presence of DP isomers in the muscle tissue of seven terrestrial resident passerine species, i.e., the great tit (Parus major), the oriental magpie-robin (Copsychus saularis), the red-whiskered bulbul (Pycnonotus jocosus), the light-vented bulbul (Pycnonotus sinensis), the streak-breasted scimitar babbler (Pomatorhinus ruficollis), the long-tailed shrike (Lanius schach), and the orange-headed thrush (Zoothera citrina), from a national nature reserve located in South China. The ∑DP (sum of syn-DP and anti-DP) concentrations ranged from 1.2 to 104 ng/g lipid weight, with significantly higher levels in insectivorous birds than in omnivorous birds. The overall exposure to DP isomers of the current passerines may be attributed to the intensive release of this pollutant from electronic waste recycling sites and industrial zones in the vicinity of the nature reserve. Species-specific DP isomeric profiles were also found, with significantly greater fanti values (the isomer fractions of anti-DP) in the red-whiskered bulbul and the oriental magpie-robin. Additionally, the fanti values were significantly negatively correlated to ∑DP concentrations for the individual bird samples, suggesting the influence of DP concentrations on the isomeric profiles.}, }
@article {pmid25655117, year = {2015}, author = {Valim, MP and Cicchino, AC}, title = {Six new species of Myrsidea Waterston, 1915 (Phthiraptera: Menoponidae) from New World jays of the genus Cyanocorax Boie (Passeriformes: Corvidae), with notes on the chorionic structure of eggs.}, journal = {Systematic parasitology}, volume = {90}, number = {2}, pages = {191-211}, pmid = {25655117}, issn = {1573-5192}, mesh = {Animals ; Chorion/ultrastructure ; Female ; Male ; Passeriformes/*parasitology ; Phthiraptera/*anatomy &amp; histology/*classification/physiology/ultrastructure ; South America ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The only species of previously named Myrsidea Waterston, 1915 from Neotropical jays of the genus Cyanocorax Boie (Passeriformes: Corvidae), Myrsidea fallax Kéler, 1938 (type-host Cyanocorax cyanomelas Vieillot), is redescribed and six new species of lice in the genus Myrsidea are described: Myrsidea pseudofallax n. sp. [type-host C. c. chrysops (Vieillot)]; M. moriona n. sp. [type-host C. m. morio (Wagler)]; Myrsidea daleclaytoni n. sp. [type-host C. v. violaceus Du Bus de Gisignies]; Myrsidea lindolphoi n. sp. [type-host C. caeruleus (Vieillot)]; Myrsidea melanocyanei n. sp. [type-host C. melanocyaneus chavezi (Miller &amp; Griscom)]; and Myrsidea cristatelli n. sp. [type-host C. cristatellus (Temminck)]. A key to the identification of both sexes of these seven species is provided. Immature stages of M. daleclaytoni n. sp. (all instars) and M. cristatelli n. sp. (nymph III) are described. External chorionic architecture of the eggs is described and illustrated for six Myrsidea spp. from corvine birds: M. picae (Linnaeus, 1758) ex Pica p. pica L.; M. cornicis (DeGeer, 1778) ex Corvus c. corone L.; M. isostoma (Nitzsch in Giebel, 1866) ex Co. f. frugilegus L.; M. interrupta (Osborn, 1896) ex Co. brachyrhynchus Brehm; M. fallax ex Cy. cyanomelas; and M. moriona n. sp. ex Cy. m. morio. This is the first review of the data on Myrsidea spp. infesting Neotropical Corvidae.}, }
@article {pmid25649845, year = {2015}, author = {Amin, HU and Malik, AS and Ahmad, RF and Badruddin, N and Kamel, N and Hussain, M and Chooi, WT}, title = {Feature extraction and classification for EEG signals using wavelet transform and machine learning techniques.}, journal = {Australasian physical &amp; engineering sciences in medicine}, volume = {38}, number = {1}, pages = {139-149}, doi = {10.1007/s13246-015-0333-x}, pmid = {25649845}, issn = {1879-5447}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition/physiology ; Electroencephalography/*classification ; Humans ; *Machine Learning ; Male ; Reproducibility of Results ; Task Performance and Analysis ; *Wavelet Analysis ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {This paper describes a discrete wavelet transform-based feature extraction scheme for the classification of EEG signals. In this scheme, the discrete wavelet transform is applied on EEG signals and the relative wavelet energy is calculated in terms of detailed coefficients and the approximation coefficients of the last decomposition level. The extracted relative wavelet energy features are passed to classifiers for the classification purpose. The EEG dataset employed for the validation of the proposed method consisted of two classes: (1) the EEG signals recorded during the complex cognitive task--Raven's advance progressive metric test and (2) the EEG signals recorded in rest condition--eyes open. The performance of four different classifiers was evaluated with four performance measures, i.e., accuracy, sensitivity, specificity and precision values. The accuracy was achieved above 98 % by the support vector machine, multi-layer perceptron and the K-nearest neighbor classifiers with approximation (A4) and detailed coefficients (D4), which represent the frequency range of 0.53-3.06 and 3.06-6.12 Hz, respectively. The findings of this study demonstrated that the proposed feature extraction approach has the potential to classify the EEG signals recorded during a complex cognitive task by achieving a high accuracy rate.}, }
@article {pmid25645813, year = {2015}, author = {Langin, KM and Sillett, TS and Funk, WC and Morrison, SA and Desrosiers, MA and Ghalambor, CK}, title = {Islands within an island: repeated adaptive divergence in a single population.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {69}, number = {3}, pages = {653-665}, doi = {10.1111/evo.12610}, pmid = {25645813}, issn = {1558-5646}, mesh = {Adaptation, Biological/*genetics ; Animals ; Beak/*anatomy &amp; histology ; California ; *Ecosystem ; Female ; *Gene Flow ; Genetics, Population ; Genotype ; Islands ; Male ; Microsatellite Repeats ; Models, Genetic ; Passeriformes/anatomy &amp; histology/*genetics ; Phenotype ; Pinus ; Quercus ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Physical barriers to gene flow were once viewed as prerequisites for adaptive evolutionary divergence. However, a growing body of theoretical and empirical work suggests that divergence can proceed within a single population. Here we document genetic structure and spatially replicated patterns of phenotypic divergence within a bird species endemic to 250 km(2) Santa Cruz Island, California, USA. Island scrub-jays (Aphelocoma insularis) in three separate stands of pine habitat had longer, shallower bills than jays in oak habitat, a pattern that mirrors adaptive differences between allopatric populations of the species' mainland congener. Variation in both bill measurements was heritable, and island scrub-jays mated nonrandomly with respect to bill morphology. The population was not panmictic; instead, we found a continuous pattern of isolation by distance across the east-west axis of the island, as well as a subtle genetic discontinuity across the boundary between the largest pine stand and adjacent oak habitat. The ecological factors that appear to have facilitated adaptive differentiation at such a fine scale--environmental heterogeneity and localized dispersal--are ubiquitous in nature. These findings support recent arguments that microgeographic patterns of adaptive divergence may be more common than currently appreciated, even in mobile taxonomic groups like birds.}, }
@article {pmid25641585, year = {2015}, author = {Han, JY and Nam, GW and Lee, HK and Kim, MJ and Kim, EJ}, title = {New analysis methods for skin fine-structure via optical image and development of 3D skin Cycloscan(™).}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {21}, number = {4}, pages = {387-391}, doi = {10.1111/srt.12202}, pmid = {25641585}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Adult ; Dermoscopy/*instrumentation/methods ; Equipment Design ; Equipment Failure Analysis ; Female ; Humans ; Image Enhancement/instrumentation/methods ; Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted/instrumentation/*methods ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional/*instrumentation/methods ; Lighting/*instrumentation/methods ; Middle Aged ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Skin Aging/drug effects/*pathology ; Skin Cream/*administration &amp; dosage ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: This study was conducted to develop methods for measuring skin fine-structure via optical image and apparatus for photographing to analyze efficacy of anti-aging.<br><br>METHODS: We developed an apparatus named 3D Skin CycloScan(&#x2122;) to evaluate the efficacy of cosmetics by imagification of skin fine-structure such as wrinkles, pores, and skin texture. The semi-sphere shaped device has 12 different sequential flashing light sources captures optical image simultaneously in one second to exclude the influence of the subject's movement. The normal map that is extracted through shape from shading method is composed of face contour and skin fine-structure parts. When the low-frequency component which is the result of the Gaussian Filter application is eliminated, we can get only skin fine-structure. In this normal map, it is possible to extract two-dimensional vector map called direction map and we can regulate the intensity of the image of wrinkles, pores, and skin texture after filtering the direction map. We performed a clinical study to apply this new apparatus and methods to evaluate an anti-aging efficacy of cosmetics visually and validate with other conventional methods.<br><br>RESULTS: After using anti-aging cream including 2% adenosine for 8 weeks, the total amount of fine wrinkle around eye area detected via 3D Skin CycloScan(&#x2122;) was reduced by 12.1%. Also, wrinkles on crow's feet measured by PRIMOS COMPACT(&#xae;) (GFMesstechnik GmbH, Germany) reduced 11.7%.<br><br>CONCLUSION: According to an aspect of the present study, by changing the direction of the lights toward to subject's skin, we can obtain the information about the fine structures present on the skin such as wrinkles, pores, or skin texture and represent it as an image.}, }
@article {pmid25636141, year = {2015}, author = {Cox, SL and Campbell, GD and Nemeth, NM}, title = {Outbreaks of West Nile virus in captive waterfowl in Ontario, Canada.}, journal = {Avian pathology : journal of the W.V.P.A}, volume = {44}, number = {2}, pages = {135-141}, doi = {10.1080/03079457.2015.1011604}, pmid = {25636141}, issn = {1465-3338}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/*virology ; Blood Vessels/pathology ; Disease Outbreaks/*veterinary ; *Ducks ; *Geese ; Hospitals, Animal ; Immunohistochemistry/veterinary ; Myocardium/pathology ; Necrosis/veterinary ; Ontario/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary ; *West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {The detrimental effects of West Nile virus (WNV) have been well characterized in several taxonomic groups of North American birds, such as corvids and raptors. Relatively less is known about the virus' effects in waterfowl species, many of which are abundant in North America and occupy habitats, for example wetlands and marshes, likely to harbour dense mosquito populations. In two successive years, outbreaks of WNV-associated disease were observed in waterfowl at a rehabilitation centre. In the present report, clinical and pathological findings are provided for seven mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) and one Canada goose (Branta canadensis) that developed acute disease and either died or were killed humanely. The most severe and consistent microscopic lesion in mallards was myocardial degeneration and coagulative necrosis consistent with acute heart failure. The Canada goose had necrotizing myocarditis. Other lesions included pulmonary perivascular oedema, lymphoplasmacytic hepatitis, and splenic and bursal lymphoid depletion. WNV infection was confirmed using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemical staining. Myofibres within all cardiac muscle layers had positive immunohistochemical staining, as did blood vessel walls in the heart and spleen. These results suggest that juvenile mallards are highly susceptible to fatal WNV-associated cardiac failure, and confirm that adult Canada geese are susceptible to fatal WNV-associated disease. The synchronous timing of clinical disease and death in these waterfowl are consistent with WNV mosquito-borne infections within a WNV transmission focus during the summer (July and August) of 2012 and 2013.}, }
@article {pmid25633965, year = {2014}, author = {Vijayakumar, P and Raut, AA and Kumar, P and Sharma, D and Mishra, A}, title = {De novo assembly and analysis of crow lungs transcriptome.}, journal = {Genome}, volume = {57}, number = {9}, pages = {499-506}, doi = {10.1139/gen-2014-0122}, pmid = {25633965}, issn = {1480-3321}, mesh = {Animals ; Avian Proteins/genetics ; Chickens/genetics ; Crows/*genetics/metabolism ; Finches/genetics ; Gene Expression Profiling ; Gene Ontology ; Genetic Markers ; Immune System Phenomena/genetics ; Lung/*metabolism ; *Transcriptome ; }, abstract = {The jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) belongs to the order Passeriformes of bird species and is important for avian ecological and evolutionary genetics studies. However, there is limited information on the transcriptome data of this species. In the present study, we report the characterization of the lung transcriptome of the jungle crow using GS FLX Titanium XLR70. Altogether, 1,510,303 high-quality sequence reads with 581,198,230 bases was de novo assembled into 22,169 isotigs (isotig represents an individual transcript) and 784,009 singletons. Using these isotigs and 581,681 length-filtered (greater than 300 bp) singletons, 20,010 unique protein-coding genes were identified by BLASTx comparison against a nonredundant (nr) protein sequence database. Comparative analysis revealed that 46,604 (70.29%) and 51,642 (72.48%) of the assembled transcripts have significant similarity to zebra finch and chicken RefSeq proteins, respectively. As determined by GO annotation and KEGG pathway mapping, functional annotation of the unigenes recovered diverse biological functions and processes. Transcripts putatively involved in the immune response were identified. Furthermore, 20,599 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 7525 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) were retrieved from the assembled transcript database. This resource should lay an important base for future ecological, evolutionary, and conservation genetic studies on this species and in other related species.}, }
@article {pmid25627601, year = {2014}, author = {Barros, RA and Costa, CA and Pascotto, MC}, title = {Diet and feeding behavior of the White-naped Jay, Cyanocorax cyanopogon (Wied, 1821) (Aves, Passeriformes, Corvidae) in a disturbed environment in central Brazil.}, journal = {Brazilian journal of biology = Revista brasleira de biologia}, volume = {74}, number = {4}, pages = {899-905}, doi = {10.1590/1519-6984.09313}, pmid = {25627601}, issn = {1678-4375}, mesh = {Animals ; Brazil ; *Diet ; *Environment ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Humans ; Passeriformes/classification/*physiology ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {The White-naped Jay Cyanocorax cyanopogon (Wied, 1821) is an omnivorous and opportunistic species, with a multifarious diet. In view of the scarcity of available data in the literature, the aim was to investigate and describe the bird's diet, location of food items, foraging tactics, actual feeding behavior and intraspecific interactions, as a means of defining the items consumed. The study was carried out in a Cerrado area in the Araguaia Campus of the Federal University of Mato Grosso - UFMT, in Pontal do Araguaia, Mato Grosso State, Brazil, from August to December, 2006, and from April to October, 2010. All the feeding events were recorded through 136 hours of animal focal sampling, whereby it was shown that these birds predominantly consume animal nutrients, replenished by vegetable items and human food-waste. Arthropods were predominant in the diet, with ants as the most abundant and frequent item. The fruits, flowers and seeds of eleven plant species were also consumed. Food-waste, representing about 1/10 of the total, was constantly consumed even when other food sources were available. Although active among the various strata, foraging is mainly on the ground. In the event of food-scarcity, the strategy employed is the hierarchical deployment of the members of various-sized groups, with the avoidance of direct competition. This versatility during all seasons, confirms total adaptation to the anthropic environment surrounded by native habitats that characterized the study site.}, }
@article {pmid25626623, year = {2015}, author = {Cooper, SH}, title = {Clinical theory at the border(s): Emerging and unintended crossings in the development of clinical theory.}, journal = {The International journal of psycho-analysis}, volume = {96}, number = {2}, pages = {273-292}, doi = {10.1111/1745-8315.12249}, pmid = {25626623}, issn = {1745-8315}, mesh = {Humans ; *Psychoanalysis ; *Psychoanalytic Theory ; *Psychoanalytic Therapy ; Transference, Psychology ; United Kingdom ; United States ; }, abstract = {The author provides some scaffolding for thinking about emerging and unintended integrative developments in clinical theory. The emergent theory to which the author refers works at a different level of theoretical discourse than explicit attempts at comparative translation of psychoanalytic concepts or theories. In contrast, most of the theory that is explored in this paper involves clinical discourse aimed at solving important common clinical problems. The work of a group of authors (Jay Greenberg, John Steiner, Anton Kris, Michael Feldman and Charles Spezzano) is described as simultaneously embedded within a particular orientation while demonstrating a kind of unwitting reach to a broad swathe of analysts. Distinctions are made between this kind of linking of clinical theory versus self-consciously syncretic and integrative approaches to theory development. The author also discusses the educational implications of this emergent theory for teaching and learning during psychoanalytic training.}, }
@article {pmid25624159, year = {2015}, author = {Pio-Abreu, JL and Ferreira, BR and Januário, C}, title = {The concept of meaning: the key to clarify the human cognition and psychopathology.}, journal = {Medical hypotheses}, volume = {84}, number = {3}, pages = {268-272}, doi = {10.1016/j.mehy.2015.01.009}, pmid = {25624159}, issn = {1532-2777}, mesh = {Cerebrum/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Humans ; *Models, Psychological ; Psychopathology/*methods/trends ; *Semantics ; }, abstract = {Meaning is a concept which is discussed everywhere. Besides being a common word, it is relevant for cognitive and linguistic studies. Nevertheless, translation problems and the specific definition of similar concepts by different disciplines hamper the discussion. In this paper, the authors discard some popular ideas about meaning (as being an image, an object or the relationship between signs), and highlights its relation with intentions, and the new concept of "embodied meaning". Following a suggestion by Timothy Crow, who studied schizophrenia and brain lateralization, the authors conclude that the right hemisphere (in right handed people) processes intentions and meanings, whereas the left hemisphere processes the signifier part of signs, including words, and their relationship to each other (the sense). This vision can elucidate some problems of Psychopathology and Philosophy of Mind.}, }
@article {pmid25604809, year = {2015}, author = {Bechtel, N and Weber, P}, title = {Attention problems in children with epilepsy. How is the long-term outcome?.}, journal = {European journal of paediatric neurology : EJPN : official journal of the European Paediatric Neurology Society}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {383-385}, doi = {10.1016/j.ejpn.2014.12.020}, pmid = {25604809}, issn = {1532-2130}, mesh = {Epilepsy/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders and frequently seen in other conditions like epilepsy as well. The prevalence of ADHD in the general paediatric population is estimated at 3-6% persisting into adulthood in up to one third of persons affected. The prevalence of ADHD in epilepsy is understood to be significantly higher. Approximately one third of children with epilepsy do also have a diagnosis of ADHD. How these attention problems develop over the years is however not clear. We therefore evaluated the severity of attention problems in children with epilepsy at late childhood and assessed it again in adolescence. Data was being compared with attention problems of children with developmental ADHD.<br><br>METHOD: 16 boys with diagnosed combined idiopathic epilepsy/ADHD and 14 boys with developmental ADHD were investigated twice; at a mean age of 10.94 (SD = 1.63) and then again at a mean age of 15.82 (SD = 2.0). At the baseline examination all patients completed Raven's Progressive Matrices to assess intelligence. To measure symptom severity of ADHD, parents were asked to complete the short version of the Conner's Rating Scale for Parents at both times. Parents of children with combined epilepsy/ADHD furthermore gave information about seizure frequency and intake of anticonvulsants.<br><br>RESULTS: Patient groups did not significantly differ in age and IQ. Results of the baseline examination revealed elevated scores in both patient groups for the Conner's Rating Scales; ADHD group: M = 16.86 (SD = 5.35); Epilepsy/ADHD group: M = 14.77 (SD = 4.76) but no differences between the groups (p = .29; z = .39). Qualitatively, patients with developmental ADHD showed more abnormalities in the area of hyperactivity/impulsivity while patients with epilepsy/ADHD had more problems with inattention. Results of the follow-up examination showed a significant reduction of symptoms in the ADHD group of minus 4.23 points; M = 12.63 (SD = 3.89) (p = .02); The reduction in the epilepsy/ADHD group was even bigger with minus 6.77 points; M = 8.00 (SD = 6.46) (p = .03). However, difference between the two groups reached no significance (p = .079; z = 1.19). None of the patients with epilepsy has had seizures in the meantime.<br><br>CONCLUSION: We found a significant reduction of ADHD symptoms in our patients from the time of late childhood to adolescence. That symptoms of ADHD, especially hyperactivity, lessen with age is known from the literature (Biedermann et al., 2010). We found the same data for patients with idiopathic epilepsy and ADHD. Over the same period of time problems of attention improved substantially. We conclude that development and brain maturation may have a similar positive effect on attention problems in children with epilepsy than in developmental ADHD.}, }
@article {pmid25603581, year = {2014}, author = {Lanciano, T and Curci, A}, title = {Incremental validity of emotional intelligence ability in predicting academic achievement.}, journal = {The American journal of psychology}, volume = {127}, number = {4}, pages = {447-461}, doi = {10.5406/amerjpsyc.127.4.0447}, pmid = {25603581}, issn = {0002-9556}, mesh = {*Achievement ; Adolescent ; Adult ; Emotional Intelligence/*physiology ; Humans ; Intelligence/physiology ; Male ; Personality/physiology ; Students/*psychology ; Universities ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {We tested the incremental validity of an ability measure of emotional intelligence (El) in predicting academic achievement in undergraduate students, controlling for cognitive abilities and personality traits. Academic achievement has been conceptualized in terms of the number of exams, grade point average, and study time taken to prepare for each exam. Additionally, gender differences were taken into account in these relationships. Participants filled in the Mayer-Salovey-Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test (MSCEIT), the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices, the reduced version of the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire, and academic achievement measures. Results showed that El abilities were positively related to academic achievement indices, such as the number of exams and grade point average; total El ability and the Perceiving branch were negatively associated with the study time spent preparing for exams. Furthermore, El ability adds a percentage of incremental variance with respect to cognitive ability and personality variables in explaining scholastic success. The magnitude of the associations between El abilities and academic achievement measures was generally higher for men than for women. Jointly considered, the present findings support the incremental validity of the MSCEIT and provide positive indications of the importance of El in students' academic development. The helpfulness of El training in the context of academic institutions is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid25602306, year = {2015}, author = {Vonk, J}, title = {Corvid cognition: something to crow about?.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {25}, number = {2}, pages = {R69-R71}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2014.12.001}, pmid = {25602306}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; *Choice Behavior ; *Cognition ; Crows/*physiology ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {New research indicates that crows are capable of matching stimuli on the basis of analogical relations: that is, similarity of size, color and shape. This may be the first evidence for spontaneous analogical reasoning outside of the primate order.}, }
@article {pmid25601617, year = {2015}, author = {Hamer, MA and Jacobs, LC and Lall, JS and Wollstein, A and Hollestein, LM and Rae, AR and Gossage, KW and Hofman, A and Liu, F and Kayser, M and Nijsten, T and Gunn, DA}, title = {Validation of image analysis techniques to measure skin aging features from facial photographs.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {21}, number = {4}, pages = {392-402}, doi = {10.1111/srt.12205}, pmid = {25601617}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Face/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Female ; Humans ; Image Enhancement/methods ; Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Observer Variation ; Pattern Recognition, Automated/*methods ; Photography/*methods ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Skin Aging/*pathology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Accurate measurement of the extent skin has aged is crucial for skin aging research. Image analysis offers a quick and consistent approach for quantifying skin aging features from photographs, but is prone to technical bias and requires proper validation.<br><br>METHODS: Facial photographs of 75 male and 75 female North-European participants, randomly selected from the Rotterdam Study, were graded by two physicians using photonumeric scales for wrinkles (full face, forehead, crow's feet, nasolabial fold and upper lip), pigmented spots and telangiectasia. Image analysis measurements of the same features were optimized using photonumeric grades from 50 participants, then compared to photonumeric grading in the 100 remaining participants stratified by sex.<br><br>RESULTS: The inter-rater reliability of the photonumeric grades was good to excellent (intraclass correlation coefficients 0.65-0.93). Correlations between the digital measures and the photonumeric grading were moderate to excellent for all the wrinkle comparisons (Spearman's rho &#x3c1; = 0.52-0.89) bar the upper lip wrinkles in the men (fair, &#x3c1; = 0.30). Correlations were moderate to good for pigmented spots and telangiectasia (&#x3c1; = 0.60-0.75).<br><br>CONCLUSION: These comparisons demonstrate that all the image analysis measures, bar the upper lip measure in the men, are suitable for use in skin aging research and highlight areas of improvement for future refinements of the techniques.}, }
@article {pmid25598542, year = {2015}, author = {Szipl, G and Boeckle, M and Wascher, CA and Spreafico, M and Bugnyar, T}, title = {With whom to dine? Ravens' responses to food-associated calls depend on individual characteristics of the caller.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {99}, number = {}, pages = {33-42}, pmid = {25598542}, issn = {0003-3472}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Upon discovering food, common ravens, Corvus corax, produce far-reaching 'haa' calls or yells, which are individually distinct and signal food availability to conspecifics. Here, we investigated whether ravens respond differently to 'haa' calls of known and unknown individuals. In a paired playback design, we tested responses to 'haa' call sequences in a group containing individually marked free-ranging ravens. We simultaneously played call sequences of a male and a female raven in two different locations and varied familiarity (known or unknown to the local group). Ravens responded strongest to dyads containing familiar females, performing more scan flights above and by perching in trees near the respective speaker. Acoustic analysis of the calls used as stimuli showed no sex-, age- or familiarity-specific acoustic cues, but highly significant classification results at the individual level. Taken together, our findings indicate that ravens respond to individual characteristics in 'haa' calls, and choose whom to approach for feeding, i.e. join social allies and avoid dominant conspecifics. This is the first study to investigate responses to 'haa' calls under natural conditions in a wild population containing individually marked ravens.}, }
@article {pmid25593599, year = {2014}, author = {Bradner, JE}, title = {From transcriptional regulation to drugging the cancer epigenome.}, journal = {Genome medicine}, volume = {6}, number = {12}, pages = {123}, pmid = {25593599}, issn = {1756-994X}, abstract = {Jay Bradner discusses the opportunities and challenges for the study and therapeutic targeting of the cancer epigenome, as well as innovative approaches to drug discovery.}, }
@article {pmid25592823, year = {2015}, author = {Vijayakumar, P and Mishra, A and Ranaware, PB and Kolte, AP and Kulkarni, DD and Burt, DW and Raut, AA}, title = {Analysis of the crow lung transcriptome in response to infection with highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus.}, journal = {Gene}, volume = {559}, number = {1}, pages = {77-85}, doi = {10.1016/j.gene.2015.01.016}, pmid = {25592823}, issn = {1879-0038}, mesh = {Animals ; Avian Proteins/*biosynthesis ; Crows ; *Gene Expression Regulation ; Immunity, Innate ; *Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype ; Influenza in Birds/*metabolism/pathology ; Lung/*metabolism/pathology ; Receptor, Interferon alpha-beta/biosynthesis ; Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling Proteins/biosynthesis ; Toll-Like Receptors/biosynthesis ; *Transcriptome ; }, abstract = {The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus, currently circulating in Asia, causes severe disease in domestic poultry as well as wild birds like crow. However, the molecular pathogenesis of HPAIV infection in crows and other wild birds is not well known. Thus, as a step to explore it, a comprehensive global gene expression analysis was performed on crow lungs, infected with HPAI H5N1 crow isolate (A/Crow/India/11TI11/2011) using high throughput next generation sequencing (NGS) (GS FLX Titanium XLR70). The reference genome of crow is not available, so RNA seq analysis was performed on the basis of a de novo assembled transcriptome. The RNA seq result shows, 4052 genes were expressed uniquely in noninfected, 6277 genes were expressed uniquely in HPAIV infected sample and of the 6814 genes expressed in both samples, 2279 genes were significantly differentially expressed. Our transcriptome profile data allows for the ability to understand the molecular mechanism behind the recent lethal HPAIV outbreak in crows which was, until recently, thought to cause lethal infections only in gallinaceous birds such as chickens, but not in wild birds. The pattern of differentially expressed genes suggest that this isolate of H5N1 virus evades the host innate immune response by attenuating interferon (IFN)-inducible signalling possibly by down regulating the signalling from type I IFN (IFNAR1 and IFNAR2) and type II IFN receptors, upregulation of the signalling inhibitors suppressor of cytokine signalling 1 (SOCS1) and SOCS3 and altering the expression of toll-like receptors (TLRs). This may be the reason for disease and mortality in crows.}, }
@article {pmid25590899, year = {2015}, author = {Spanoudis, G and Demetriou, A and Kazi, S and Giorgala, K and Zenonos, V}, title = {Embedding cognizance in intellectual development.}, journal = {Journal of experimental child psychology}, volume = {132}, number = {}, pages = {32-50}, doi = {10.1016/j.jecp.2014.12.003}, pmid = {25590899}, issn = {1096-0457}, mesh = {Child ; Child Development/*physiology ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; }, abstract = {This study examined whether cognizance of cognitive processes (i.e., awareness of the perceptual and inferential origins of knowledge) mediates between basic processing efficiency functions (i.e., processing speed, attention control, and working memory) and fluid cognition (e.g., performance on Raven-like matrices) during development. For this aim, children from 4 to 8 years of age were examined by various measures addressed to each of these processes. All processes developed systematically throughout this age period. Structural equation modeling showed that awareness does have this mediating role, that this mediation is phase specific based on perceptual awareness and theory of mind during the 5- and 6-year phase and on inferential awareness during the 7- and 8-year phase, and that it builds up within each developmental cycle. Attention control emerges from, rather than directs, working memory and largely remains beyond awareness through the age span studied. Implications for theory of intellectual development are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid25588010, year = {2015}, author = {Hofmeister, E and Porter, RE and Franson, JC}, title = {Experimental susceptibility of wood ducks (Aix sponsa) for West Nile virus.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {51}, number = {2}, pages = {411-418}, doi = {10.7589/2014-08-216}, pmid = {25588010}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/blood/pathology/*virology ; Disease Susceptibility ; *Ducks ; Immunoglobulin M/blood ; Serologic Tests ; Viremia ; Virus Shedding ; West Nile Fever/blood/pathology/*veterinary/virology ; *West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {Detection of West Nile virus (WNV) has been reported in a variety of wild ducks in the US, but little is known about the pathogenesis and outcome of exposure of the disease in these species. Previous experimental studies of WNV in ducks either have challenged a small number of ducks with WNV or have tested domesticated ducks. To determine susceptibility and immune response, we challenged 7-wk-old Wood Ducks (Aix sponsa) with a 1999 American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) isolate of WNV. Wood Ducks were susceptible to infection with the virus, and, although clinical signs or mortality were not observed, microscopic lesions were noted, particularly in the heart and brain. West Nile virus viremia peaked on day 2 postinfection (pi) at 10(4.54) plaque-forming units (PFU) of virus/mL serum and WNV was shed orally (between 10(2) and 10(2.9) PFU per swab) and cloacally. Specific anti-WNV antibody response was rapid, with anti-WNV IgM detected on day 3 pi followed on day 5 pi by anti-WNV IgG. Neutralizing antibodies were detected by plaque-reduction neutralization assay in one duck on day 4 pi, and in all sampled ducks on day 5. These results indicate that Wood Ducks are susceptible to WNV, but it is unlikely that significant WNV mortality events occur in Wood Ducks or that they play a significant role in transmission. However, WNV viremia was sufficient, in theory, to infect mosquitoes, and oral and cloacal shedding of the virus may increase the risk of infection to other waterbirds.}, }
@article {pmid25569827, year = {2014}, author = {Bozsik, C and Áspán, N and Gádoros, J and Inántsy-Pap, J and Halász, J}, title = {[Conduct symptoms and emotional decision making in non-clinical adolescents].}, journal = {Psychiatria Hungarica : A Magyar Pszichiatriai Tarsasag tudomanyos folyoirata}, volume = {29}, number = {4}, pages = {378-385}, pmid = {25569827}, issn = {0237-7896}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Behavioral Symptoms/*psychology ; Conduct Disorder/psychology ; *Decision Making ; *Emotions ; Female ; Humans ; Hungary ; Male ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In adults with antisocial personality disorder, literature data indicate alterations in emotional decision making and in the working of the prefrontal cortex. Similar alterations were described in adolescents with psychopathic traits, however, a dimensional link was not established between behavioral variables and variables associated with decision making. The aim of the present study was to describe the relationship between externalizing symptoms and emotional decision making in non-clinical adolescents.<br><br>METHODS: Originally 57, 7th-10th grade students between 13-16 years participated in the study after informed consent, but the data of 4 adolescents were not used because of incomplete data-set (N=53; 24 girls and 29 boys; age=14.7 &#xb1; 1.0 years, mean &#xb1; SD). The parent version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was used to assess behavioral problems. The Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) performance and Raven IQ measures were also assessed.<br><br>RESULTS: The number of summarized risky choices was positively correlated with Conduct Problems Scale of SDQ (r=0.31, p<0.05). While the number of risky choices was not correlated with conduct problems in the first 20 selections (r=0.11, p=n.s.), a marked positive correlation was present in the above measures in the last 20 selections (r=0.28, p<0.05). The number of risky choices did not depend on Raven IQ, age, and other behavioral scales of SDQ.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Even subthreshold conduct symptoms are associated with altered emotional decision making in adolescents, what might be important in the development of antisocial behavior.}, }
@article {pmid25565916, year = {2014}, author = {Walters, CB and Hill, KG and Zavilla, AR and Erickson, CA}, title = {Students apply research methods to consumer decisions about cognitive enhancing drinks.}, journal = {Journal of undergraduate neuroscience education : JUNE : a publication of FUN, Faculty for Undergraduate Neuroscience}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {A21-8}, pmid = {25565916}, issn = {1544-2896}, abstract = {The goal of this class project was to provide students with a hands-on research experience that allowed autonomy, but eliminated duplication of effort and could be completed within one semester. Our resources were limited to a small supply budget and an introductory psychology subject pool. Six students from a behavioral neuroscience class tested claims made by a drink company that their product improves cognitive function. The students each chose a cognitive task for their part of the project. The tasks included the Donders Reaction Time Task, the Stroop Task, the Raven's Progressive Matrices, a short-term memory span test, the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test and a simple measure of prefrontal EEG activity. Participants were randomly assigned to an experimental or control drink. The experimental group received the putative cognitive enhancing drink and the control group received a placebo drink that was very similar in color and taste. The two drinks shared no active ingredients. Results suggest that the putative cognitive enhancing drink did not improve performance on any of the tasks and decreased performance on the short-term memory task. These findings are discussed in regard to implications for consumers as well as further research into supplements and their ability to improve cognitive performance. Each student presented his/her results at a university-wide research conference. This project provided a rich experience in which students had the opportunity to carry out a research project from conception to presentation.}, }
@article {pmid25561943, year = {2014}, author = {Motamedi, M and Nasergivehch, S and Karamghadiri, N and Noroozian, M}, title = {Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy (JME): Neuropsychological Profile and Related Factors with Cognitive Dysfunction.}, journal = {Iranian journal of psychiatry}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {14-19}, pmid = {25561943}, issn = {1735-4587}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of present study was to verify possible cognitive dysfunction in the patients with Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy (JME) and its correlation to factors related to epilepsy and patients demographic variables.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty two consecutive patients with JME and 32 healthy controls were evaluated in neuropsychological domains including orientation, mental control, logical memory, forward and backward digit spans, visual memory, associative learning, and memory quotient (using Persian version of Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS)-Revised), preservative errors (using Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST)), Stroop Test (color and word), IQ score (using Raven's Progressive Matrices test), and depression (using the Persian version of Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)). SPSS 11.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Illinois, USA) software was used for statistical analysis. Student's t-test and the Mann-Whitney U-test were used for independent normally and non-normally distributed continuous variables, respectively.<br><br>RESULTS: Our study showed significant differences between patients with JME and control group with respect to scores of mental control (p=0.015), forward digit span (p=0.004), total digit span (p=0.008) and IQ (p=0.003). In addition, age, education level, duration of epilepsy and medication showed an impact on several cognitive functions in the patients with JME.<br><br>CONCLUSION: It is indicated that JME is associated with impairment in specific cognitive domains, despite any evidence in favor of depression.}, }
@article {pmid25556811, year = {2015}, author = {Cipolotti, L and Healy, C and Chan, E and Bolsover, F and Lecce, F and White, M and Spanò, B and Shallice, T and Bozzali, M}, title = {The impact of different aetiologies on the cognitive performance of frontal patients.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {68}, number = {}, pages = {21-30}, pmid = {25556811}, issn = {1873-3514}, support = {/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; 089231/A/09/Z/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; /DH_/Department of Health/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; *Brain Neoplasms/pathology/physiopathology ; *Cerebrovascular Disorders/pathology/physiopathology ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Female ; *Frontal Lobe/pathology/physiopathology ; Humans ; Male ; *Meningioma/pathology/physiopathology ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Neuropsychological group study methodology is considered one of the primary methods to further understanding of the organisation of frontal 'executive' functions. Typically, patients with frontal lesions caused by stroke or tumours have been grouped together to obtain sufficient power. However, it has been debated whether it is methodologically appropriate to group together patients with neurological lesions of different aetiologies. Despite this debate, very few studies have directly compared the performance of patients with different neurological aetiologies on neuropsychological measures. The few that did included patients with both anterior and posterior lesions. We present the first comprehensive retrospective comparison of the impact of lesions of different aetiologies on neuropsychological performance in a large number of patients whose lesion solely affects the frontal cortex. We investigated patients who had a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), high (HGT) or low grade (LGT) tumour, or meningioma, all at the post-operative stage. The same frontal 'executive' (Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices, Stroop Colour-Word Test, Letter Fluency-S; Trail Making Test Part B) and nominal (Graded Naming Test) tasks were compared. Patients' performance was compared across aetiologies controlling for age and NART IQ scores. Assessments of focal frontal lesion location, lesion volume, global brain atrophy and non-specific white matter (WM) changes were undertaken and compared across the four aetiology. We found no significant difference in performance between the four aetiology subgroups on the 'frontal' executive and nominal tasks. However, we found strong effects of premorbid IQ on all cognitive tasks and robust effects of age only on the frontal tasks. We also compared specific aetiology subgroups directly, as previously reported in the literature. Overall we found no significant differences in the performance of CVA and tumour patients, or LGT and HGT patients or LGT, HGT and meningioma's on our four frontal tests. No difference was found with respect to the location of frontal lesions, lesion volume, global brain atrophy and non-specific WM changes between the subgroups. Our results suggest that the grouping of frontal patients caused by different aetiologies is a pragmatic, justified methodological approach that can help to further understanding of the organisation of frontal executive functions.}, }
@article {pmid25552908, year = {2015}, author = {Tran, D and Townley, JP and Barnes, TM and Greive, KA}, title = {An antiaging skin care system containing alpha hydroxy acids and vitamins improves the biomechanical parameters of facial skin.}, journal = {Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {9-17}, pmid = {25552908}, issn = {1178-7015}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The demand for antiaging products has dramatically increased in recent years, driven by an aging population seeking to maintain the appearance of youth. This study investigates the effects of an antiaging skin care system containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) in conjunction with vitamins B3, C, and E on the biomechanical parameters of facial skin.<br><br>METHODS: Fifty two volunteers followed an antiaging skin care regimen comprising of cleanser, eye cream, day moisturizer, and night moisturizer for 21 days. Wrinkle depth (Ry) and skin roughness (Ra) were measured by skin surface profilometry of the crow's feet area, and skin elasticity parameters R2 (gross elasticity), R5 (net elasticity), R6 (viscoelastic portion), and R7 (recovery after deformation) were determined for facial skin by cutometer, preapplication and after 7, 14, and 21 days. Volunteers also completed a self-assessment questionnaire.<br><br>RESULTS: Compared to baseline, Ry and Ra significantly improved by 32.5% (P<0.0001) and 42.9% (P<0.0001), respectively, after 21 days of antiaging skin care treatment. These results were observed by the volunteers with 9 out of 10 discerning an improvement in skin texture and smoothness. Compared to baseline, R2 and R5 significantly increased by 15.2% (P<0.0001) and 12.5% (P=0.0449), respectively, while R6 significantly decreased by 17.7% (P<0.0001) after 21 days. R7 increased by 9.7% after 21 days compared to baseline but this was not significant over this time period.<br><br>CONCLUSION: An antiaging skin care system containing AHAs and vitamins significantly improves the biomechanical parameters of the skin including wrinkles and skin texture, as well as elasticity without significant adverse effects.}, }
@article {pmid27375975, year = {2015}, author = {Lütke, N and Lange-Küttner, C}, title = {Keeping It in Three Dimensions: Measuring the Development of Mental Rotation in Children with the Rotated Colour Cube Test (RCCT).}, journal = {International journal of developmental science}, volume = {9}, number = {2}, pages = {95-114}, pmid = {27375975}, issn = {2192-001X}, abstract = {This study introduces the new Rotated Colour Cube Test (RCCT) as a measure of object identification and mental rotation using single 3D colour cube images in a matching-to-sample procedure. One hundred 7- to 11-year-old children were tested with aligned or rotated cube models, distracters and targets. While different orientations of distracters made the RCCT more difficult, different colours of distracters had the opposite effect and made the RCCT easier because colour facilitated clearer discrimination between target and distracters. Ten-year-olds performed significantly better than 7- to 8-year-olds. The RCCT significantly correlated with children's performance on the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices Test (RCPM) presumably due to the shared multiple-choice format, but the RCCT was easier, as it did not require sequencing. Children from families with a high socio-economic status performed best on both tests, with boys outperforming girls on the more difficult RCCT test sections.}, }
@article {pmid25548849, year = {2015}, author = {Mahmoud, BH and Burnett, C and Ozog, D}, title = {Prospective randomized controlled study to determine the effect of topical application of botulinum toxin A for crow's feet after treatment with ablative fractional CO2 laser.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {41 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {S75-81}, doi = {10.1097/01.DSS.0000452642.83894.ab}, pmid = {25548849}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Administration, Cutaneous ; Adult ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Combined Modality Therapy/adverse effects ; Edema/etiology ; Erythema/etiology ; Eye ; Facial Dermatoses/etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Lasers, Gas/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Pain/etiology ; Patient Satisfaction ; Prospective Studies ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin Type A (BoNT A) for the treatment of facial wrinkles is delivered through local injection. We previously demonstrated that topical surface application of BoNT A has negligible cutaneous bioavailability and is not effective in treating wrinkles.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of BoNT A solution applied topically on the skin surface immediately after ablative fractional CO2 laser treatment.<br><br>METHODS: We conducted a randomized controlled trial for patients with periorbital wrinkles (crow's feet) (n = 10). Treatment was performed on both sides of the face with fractional ablative CO2 laser followed by the application of topical solutions of BoNT A on one side and normal saline as control on the other side. Pretreatment assessment was performed, and at 1 and 4 weeks after treatment.<br><br>RESULTS: There was a clinically significant greater degree of improvement in wrinkles after treatment with CO2 laser, on the topically applied BoNT A side. Also, the difference between the 2 treatment types (laser followed by topical BoNT A vs laser followed by saline) at 1 week and at 1 month was statistically significant.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Topically, noninjectable form of BoNT A applied on the surface of the skin after ablative fractional CO2 laser is effective in the treatment of lateral periorbital wrinkles.}, }
@article {pmid25548848, year = {2015}, author = {Dayan, S and Coleman, WP and Dover, JS and De Boulle, K and Street, J and Romagnano, L and Daniels, S and Kowalski, JW and Lei, X and Lee, E}, title = {Effects of OnabotulinumtoxinA treatment for crow's feet lines on patient-reported outcomes.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {41 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {S67-74}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000000146}, pmid = {25548848}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Double-Blind Method ; Eye ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*therapeutic use ; *Patient Satisfaction ; *Self Concept ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Although millions of aesthetic procedures are performed annually, few patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures have been used in this setting.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of onabotulinumtoxinA treatment for crow's feet lines (CFL) on relevant psychological variables and self-perception of age/appearance in subgroup populations.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Facial Lines Outcomes (FLO-11) Questionnaire, Self-Perception of Age (SPA), and Subject Global Assessment of Change in CFL (SGA-CFL) were PRO measures administered in 2 Phase 3, double-blind placebo-controlled trials for the treatment of CFL alone or CFL/glabellar lines (GL). Patient-reported outcome measures were analyzed by subgroups (age, gender, and baseline CFL severity). Subject satisfaction with appearance was also analyzed.<br><br>RESULTS: Most subgroups receiving onabotulinumtoxinA demonstrated significant improvements in psychological impact (FLO-11 Items 2, 5, and 8) versus placebo at Day 30 (p &#x2264; .05). OnabotulinumtoxinA-treated subjects consistently rated themselves as looking younger on SPA versus placebo in all subgroups at Day 30 (p &#x2264; .05) and showed significant improvements in CFL appearance versus placebo at all time points on SGA-CFL. Overall, subjects were satisfied with their appearance.<br><br>CONCLUSION: OnabotulinumtoxinA-treated subjects experienced significant improvements in perceived appearance, attractiveness, tiredness, age, and satisfaction versus placebo. Subjects treated for CFL and GL experienced even greater effects.}, }
@article {pmid25548844, year = {2015}, author = {Muti, G and Harrington, L}, title = {A prospective rater- and subject-blinded study comparing the efficacy of incobotulinumtoxinA and onabotulinumtoxinA to treat crow's feet: a clinical crossover evaluation.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {41 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {S39-46}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000000262}, pmid = {25548844}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Cross-Over Studies ; Eye ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*therapeutic use ; Prospective Studies ; Single-Blind Method ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin A products have been used in aesthetics for more than 20 years.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To compare incobotulinumtoxinA with onabotulinumtoxinA in the treatment of crow's feet.<br><br>METHODS: This single-center, randomized, prospective, split-face, subject- and rater-blinded study with a clinical crossover evaluation comprised 2 consecutive treatment cycles, each of 3 months' duration separated by 6 months (i.e., a 9-month treatment interval). Fourteen subjects with symmetrical crow's feet were assessed using the Merz 5-point scale for crow's feet, after each treatment with incobotulinumtoxinA (right side of the face) and onabotulinumtoxinA (left side), or vice versa (1:1 dose conversion ratio). The treatment applied to each side of the face was reversed in Cycle 2.<br><br>RESULTS: Crow's feet severity at rest and maximum contraction was improved to a similar extent by both treatments, in both cycles and on both sides of the face. Pooled data confirmed these results. Improvements were maintained at the final visit, 3 months after treatment (e.g., left side at maximum contraction-onabotulinumtoxinA mean score: 2.21 [baseline] vs 0.93 [1 month] vs 1.71 [3 months]; incobotulinumtoxinA mean score: 2.21 vs 0.86 vs 1.50).<br><br>CONCLUSION: IncobotulinumtoxinA and onabotulinumtoxinA (1:1 dose conversion ratio) were well tolerated, showing comparable efficacy and duration of treatment effect for crow's feet.}, }
@article {pmid25540070, year = {2014}, author = {Teixeira, PH and Thel, Tdo N and Ferreira, JM and de Azevedo, SM and Junior, WR and Lyra-Neves, RM}, title = {Local knowledge and exploitation of the avian fauna by a rural community in the semi-arid zone of northeastern Brazil.}, journal = {Journal of ethnobiology and ethnomedicine}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {81}, pmid = {25540070}, issn = {1746-4269}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Brazil ; *Knowledge ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The present study examined the exploitation of bird species by the residents of a rural community in the Brazilian semi-arid zone, and their preferences for species with different characteristics.<br><br>METHODS: The 24 informants were identified using the "snowball" approach, and were interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires and check-sheets for the collection of data on their relationship with the bird species that occur in the region. The characteristics that most attract the attention of the interviewees were the song and the coloration of the plumage of a bird, as well as its body size, which determines its potential as a game species, given that hunting is an important activity in the region.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 98 species representing 32 families (50.7% of the species known to occur in the region) were reported during interviews, being used for meat, pets, and medicinal purposes. Three species were used as zootherapeutics - White-naped Jay was eaten whole as a cure for speech problems, the feathers of Yellow-legged Tinamou were used for snakebite, Smooth-billed Ani was eaten for "chronic cough" and Small-billed Tinamou and Tataupa Tinamou used for locomotion problems. The preference of the informants for characteristics such as birdsong and colorful plumage was a significant determinant of their preference for the species exploited. Birds with cynegetic potential and high use values were also among the most preferred species. Despite the highly significant preferences for certain species, some birds, such as those of the families Trochilidae, Thamnophilidae, and Tyrannidae are hunted randomly, independently of their attributes.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The evidence collected on the criteria applied by local specialists for the exploitation of the bird fauna permitted the identification of the species that suffer hunting pressure, providing guidelines for the development of conservation and management strategies that will guarantee the long-term survival of the populations of these bird species in the region.}, }
@article {pmid25532894, year = {2015}, author = {Smirnova, A and Zorina, Z and Obozova, T and Wasserman, E}, title = {Crows spontaneously exhibit analogical reasoning.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {25}, number = {2}, pages = {256-260}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2014.11.063}, pmid = {25532894}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; *Choice Behavior ; *Cognition ; Concept Formation ; Crows/*physiology ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {Analogical reasoning is vital to advanced cognition and behavioral adaptation. Many theorists deem analogical thinking to be uniquely human and to be foundational to categorization, creative problem solving, and scientific discovery. Comparative psychologists have long been interested in the species generality of analogical reasoning, but they initially found it difficult to obtain empirical support for such thinking in nonhuman animals (for pioneering efforts, see [2, 3]). Researchers have since mustered considerable evidence and argument that relational matching-to-sample (RMTS) effectively captures the essence of analogy, in which the relevant logical arguments are presented visually. In RMTS, choice of test pair BB would be correct if the sample pair were AA, whereas choice of test pair EF would be correct if the sample pair were CD. Critically, no items in the correct test pair physically match items in the sample pair, thus demanding that only relational sameness or differentness is available to support accurate choice responding. Initial evidence suggested that only humans and apes can successfully learn RMTS with pairs of sample and test items; however, monkeys have subsequently done so. Here, we report that crows too exhibit relational matching behavior. Even more importantly, crows spontaneously display relational responding without ever having been trained on RMTS; they had only been trained on identity matching-to-sample (IMTS). Such robust and uninstructed relational matching behavior represents the most convincing evidence yet of analogical reasoning in a nonprimate species, as apes alone have spontaneously exhibited RMTS behavior after only IMTS training.}, }
@article {pmid25522499, year = {2014}, author = {Kumbar, SM and Ghadage, AB}, title = {Preliminary study on avian fauna of the Krishna River basin Sangli District, Western Maharashtra, India.}, journal = {Journal of environmental biology}, volume = {35}, number = {6}, pages = {1005-1011}, pmid = {25522499}, issn = {0254-8704}, mesh = {Animal Migration ; Animals ; Birds/*classification/*physiology ; Demography ; India ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The present study on avifaunal diversity carried out for three years at the Krishna River Basin, Sangli District revealed a total of 126 species of birds belonging to 30 families, of which 91 species were resident, 16 migratory, 12 resident and local migratory and 7 species were resident and migratory. Among the migrant birds, Rosy Starling Sturnus roseus was dominant in the study area. Commonly recorded resident bird species were, Red vented bulbul, Jungle crow, House sparrow, Common myna, Brahminy myna, Rock pigeon, Spotted dove, Rose ringed parakeet, Indian robin, White-browed fantail-flycatcher and Small sunbird. Most of the families had one or two species, whereas Muscicapidae family alone had 16 species. Forty one species of waterfowls were recorded in this small landscape. Out of 126 bird species, 38 were insectivorous, 28 piscivorous, 25 omnivorous, 19 carnivorous, 9 granivorous, 5 frugivorous and 2 species were nectar sucker and insectivorous. These results suggest that richness of avifauna in the Krishna River Basin, Western Maharashtra might be due to large aquatic ground, varied vegetations and favourable environmental conditions.}, }
@article {pmid25519726, year = {2014}, author = {Wang, J and Yao, Z and Lei, T and Poon, AW}, title = {Silicon coupled-resonator optical-waveguide-based biosensors using light-scattering pattern recognition with pixelized mode-field-intensity distributions.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {7528}, pmid = {25519726}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Biosensing Techniques/*instrumentation ; Calibration ; Equipment Design/*instrumentation ; Light ; Pattern Recognition, Automated/methods ; Refractometry/*instrumentation ; Silicon/*chemistry ; }, abstract = {Chip-scale, optical microcavity-based biosensors typically employ an ultra-high-quality microcavity and require a precision wavelength-tunable laser for exciting the cavity resonance. For point-of-care applications, however, such a system based on measurements in the spectral domain is prone to equipment noise and not portable. An alternative microcavity-based biosensor that enables a high sensitivity in an equipment-noise-tolerant and potentially portable system is desirable. Here, we demonstrate the proof-of-concept of such a biosensor using a coupled-resonator optical-waveguide (CROW) on a silicon-on-insulator chip. The sensing scheme is based on measurements in the spatial domain, and only requires exciting the CROW at a fixed wavelength and imaging the out-of-plane elastic light-scattering intensity patterns of the CROW. Based on correlating the light-scattering intensity pattern at a probe wavelength with the light-scattering intensity patterns at the CROW eigenstates, we devise a pattern-recognition algorithm that enables the extraction of a refractive index change, Δn, applied upon the CROW upper-cladding from a calibrated set of correlation coefficients. Our experiments using an 8-microring CROW covered by NaCl solutions of different concentrations reveal a Δn of ~1.5 × 10(-4) refractive index unit (RIU) and a sensitivity of ~752 RIU(-1), with a noise-equivalent detection limit of ~6 × 10(-6) RIU.}, }
@article {pmid25506322, year = {2014}, author = {Bódizs, R and Gombos, F and Ujma, PP and Kovács, I}, title = {Sleep spindling and fluid intelligence across adolescent development: sex matters.}, journal = {Frontiers in human neuroscience}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {952}, pmid = {25506322}, issn = {1662-5161}, abstract = {Evidence supports the intricate relationship between sleep electroencephalogram (EEG) spindling and cognitive abilities in children and adults. Although sleep EEG changes during adolescence index fundamental brain reorganization, a detailed analysis of sleep spindling and the spindle-intelligence relationship was not yet provided for adolescents. Therefore, adolescent development of sleep spindle oscillations were studied in a home polysomnographic study focusing on the effects of chronological age and developmentally acquired overall mental efficiency (fluid IQ) with sex as a potential modulating factor. Subjects were 24 healthy adolescents (12 males) with an age range of 15-22 years (mean: 18 years) and fluid IQ of 91-126 (mean: 104.12, Raven Progressive Matrices Test). Slow spindles (SSs) and fast spindles (FSs) were analyzed in 21 EEG derivations by using the individual adjustment method (IAM). A significant age-dependent increase in average FS density (r = 0.57; p = 0.005) was found. Moreover, fluid IQ correlated with FS density (r = 0.43; p = 0.04) and amplitude (r = 0.41; p = 0.049). The latter effects were entirely driven by particularly reliable FS-IQ correlations in females [r = 0.80 (p = 0.002) and r = 0.67 (p = 0.012), for density and amplitude, respectively]. Region-specific analyses revealed that these correlations peak in the fronto-central regions. The control of the age-dependence of FS measures and IQ scores did not considerably reduce the spindle-IQ correlations with respect to FS density. The only positive spindle-index of fluid IQ in males turned out to be the frequency of FSs (r = 0.60, p = 0.04). Increases in FS density during adolescence may index reshaped structural connectivity related to white matter maturation in the late developing human brain. The continued development over this age range of cognitive functions is indexed by specific measures of sleep spindling unraveling gender differences in adolescent brain maturation and perhaps cognitive strategy.}, }
@article {pmid25504456, year = {2015}, author = {Hambrick, DZ and Altmann, EM}, title = {The role of placekeeping ability in fluid intelligence.}, journal = {Psychonomic bulletin &amp; review}, volume = {22}, number = {4}, pages = {1104-1110}, pmid = {25504456}, issn = {1531-5320}, mesh = {Attention ; *Executive Function ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Memory, Short-Term ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {The question of what underlies individual differences in general intelligence has never been satisfactorily answered. The purpose of this research was to investigate the role of an executive function that we term placekeeping ability-the ability to perform the steps of a complex task in a prescribed order without skipping or repeating steps. Participants completed a newly developed test of placekeeping ability, called the UNRAVEL task. The measure of placekeeping ability from this task (error rate) predicted a measure of fluid intelligence (Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices score), above and beyond measures of working memory capacity, task switching, and multitasking. An existing model of Raven's performance suggests that placekeeping ability supports the systematic exploration of hypotheses under problem-solving conditions.}, }
@article {pmid25502037, year = {2014}, author = {Hernández, MC and Cabrera Walsh, G}, title = {Insect herbivores associated with Ludwigia species, Oligospermum section, in their Argentine distribution.}, journal = {Journal of insect science (Online)}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {25502037}, issn = {1536-2442}, mesh = {Animals ; Argentina ; Biological Control Agents ; Feeding Behavior ; Herbivory ; Insecta/*physiology ; Larva/physiology ; Onagraceae/*parasitology ; }, abstract = {The South American water primroses, Ludwigia grandiflora (Michx.) Greuter &amp; Burdet, L. grandiflora subsp. hexapetala (Hook. &amp; Arn.) G.L. Nesom &amp; Kartesz, Ludwigia peploides (Kunth) P.H. Raven, and L. p. subsp. montevidensis (Spreng.) P.H. Raven (Onagraceae, Section Oligospermum), have become invasive in several watersheds of the United States and Europe. Surveys were carried out in center-east of Argentina to find insect species that might serve as biological control agents for L. g. subsp. hexapetala in California and elsewhere. Stems (0.5-0.6 m) of Ludwigia species, Sect. Oligospermum, were collected in 41 sites and analyzed in the laboratory; immature insects were reared to adults. The plant species found in the area were L. grandiflora (2 sites), L. g. subsp. hexapetala (33 sites), and L. p. subsp. montevidensis (4 sites). There was a variety of insect guilds feeding on L. g. subsp. hexapetala, including six species with stem-borer larvae, one species with fruit-feeding larvae, four species with defoliating larvae, two species with defoliating larvae on young leaves and axil meristems, one species of cell content feeder, and three species of sap feeders. Nine of these species also have defoliating adults. Biological information on most of them is provided. Of these insect herbivores, only two species were also found on L. grandiflora, and one on L. peploides. Several of the species found on L. g. hexapetala, such as the cell-content feeder Liothrips ludwigi (Thysanoptera), the stem-borers Merocnemus binotatus (Boheman) and Tyloderma spp. (Coleoptera), are promising candidates for biocontrol agents.}, }
@article {pmid25497684, year = {2015}, author = {Sotiras, A and Resnick, SM and Davatzikos, C}, title = {Finding imaging patterns of structural covariance via Non-Negative Matrix Factorization.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {108}, number = {}, pages = {1-16}, pmid = {25497684}, issn = {1095-9572}, support = {HHSN271201300284//PHS HHS/United States ; R01 MH101111/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; HHSN271201300284P/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; R01-MH070365/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AG014971/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01-AG014971/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH070365/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Algorithms ; Animals ; *Brain ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Mice ; Neuroimaging/*methods ; Principal Component Analysis ; }, abstract = {In this paper, we investigate the use of Non-Negative Matrix Factorization (NNMF) for the analysis of structural neuroimaging data. The goal is to identify the brain regions that co-vary across individuals in a consistent way, hence potentially being part of underlying brain networks or otherwise influenced by underlying common mechanisms such as genetics and pathologies. NNMF offers a directly data-driven way of extracting relatively localized co-varying structural regions, thereby transcending limitations of Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Independent Component Analysis (ICA) and other related methods that tend to produce dispersed components of positive and negative loadings. In particular, leveraging upon the well known ability of NNMF to produce parts-based representations of image data, we derive decompositions that partition the brain into regions that vary in consistent ways across individuals. Importantly, these decompositions achieve dimensionality reduction via highly interpretable ways and generalize well to new data as shown via split-sample experiments. We empirically validate NNMF in two data sets: i) a Diffusion Tensor (DT) mouse brain development study, and ii) a structural Magnetic Resonance (sMR) study of human brain aging. We demonstrate the ability of NNMF to produce sparse parts-based representations of the data at various resolutions. These representations seem to follow what we know about the underlying functional organization of the brain and also capture some pathological processes. Moreover, we show that these low dimensional representations favorably compare to descriptions obtained with more commonly used matrix factorization methods like PCA and ICA.}, }
@article {pmid25495376, year = {2016}, author = {Levy, NK and Milgram, N}, title = {Cognitive contributions to theory of mind ability in children with a traumatic head injury.}, journal = {Child neuropsychology : a journal on normal and abnormal development in childhood and adolescence}, volume = {22}, number = {2}, pages = {177-196}, doi = {10.1080/09297049.2014.985642}, pmid = {25495376}, issn = {1744-4136}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Brain Injuries/*psychology ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; *Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/*psychology ; Comprehension/*physiology ; Craniocerebral Trauma/complications ; Emotions ; *Executive Function ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Severity of Illness Index ; Social Behavior ; *Theory of Mind ; }, abstract = {The objective of the current study is to examine the contribution of intellectual abilities, executive functions (EF), and facial emotion recognition to difficulties in Theory of Mind (ToM) abilities in children with a traumatic head injury. Israeli children with a traumatic head injury were compared with their non-injured counterparts. Each group included 18 children (12 males) ages 7-13. Measurements included reading the mind in the eyes, facial emotion recognition, reasoning the other's characteristics based on motive and outcome, Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, similarities and digit span (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children - Revised 95 subscales), verbal fluency, and the Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Functions. Non-injured children performed significantly better on ToM, abstract reasoning, and EF measures compared with children with a traumatic head injury. However, differences in ToM abilities between the groups were no longer significant after controlling for abstract reasoning, working memory, verbal fluency, or facial emotion recognition. Impaired ToM recognition and reasoning abilities after a head injury may result from other cognitive impairments. In children with mild and moderate head injury, poorer performance on ToM tasks may reflect poorer abstract reasoning, a general tendency to concretize stimuli, working memory and verbal fluency deficits, and difficulties in facial emotion recognition, rather than deficits in the ability to understand the other's thoughts and emotions. ToM impairments may be secondary to a range of cognitive deficits in determining social outcomes in this population.}, }
@article {pmid25488022, year = {2015}, author = {Silva, KM and Gross, TJ and Silva, FJ}, title = {Task-specific modulation of adult humans' tool preferences: number of choices and size of the problem.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {43}, number = {1}, pages = {44-53}, pmid = {25488022}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Adult ; Choice Behavior ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {In two experiments, we examined the effect of modifications to the features of a stick-and-tube problem on the stick lengths that adult humans used to solve the problem. In Experiment 1, we examined whether people's tool preferences for retrieving an out-of-reach object in a tube might more closely resemble those reported with laboratory crows if people could modify a single stick to an ideal length to solve the problem. Contrary to when adult humans have selected a tool from a set of ten sticks, asking people to modify a single stick to retrieve an object did not generally result in a stick whose length was related to the object's distance. Consistent with the prior research, though, the working length of the stick was related to the object's distance. In Experiment 2, we examined the effect of increasing the scale of the stick-and-tube problem on people's tool preferences. Increasing the scale of the task influenced people to select relatively shorter tools than had selected in previous studies. Although the causal structures of the tasks used in the two experiments were identical, their results were not. This underscores the necessity of studying physical cognition in relation to a particular causal structure by using a variety of tasks and methods.}, }
@article {pmid25485803, year = {2015}, author = {Moers-Carpi, M and Carruthers, J and Fagien, S and Lupo, M and Delmar, H and Jones, D and Somogyi, C and Lee, E and Lei, X and MacKinnon, S and Davis, PG and Yalamanchili, R and Campo, A and Beddingfield, FC}, title = {Efficacy and safety of onabotulinumtoxinA for treating crow's feet lines alone or in combination with glabellar lines: a multicenter, randomized, controlled trial.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {41}, number = {1}, pages = {102-112}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000000220}, pmid = {25485803}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; *Cosmetic Techniques/adverse effects/psychology ; Double-Blind Method ; Eye ; Female ; Forehead ; Headache/chemically induced ; Hematoma/chemically induced ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Pain/chemically induced ; Patient Satisfaction ; Self Concept ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This was the second study in a Phase 3 program treating crow's feet lines (CFL) with onabotulinumtoxinA.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of onabotulinumtoxinA treatment of CFL alone or with glabellar lines (GL).<br><br>METHODS: This multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, repeat treatment, 7-month study randomized subjects with moderate-to-severe CFL and GL (maximum contraction) to onabotulinumtoxinA 44 U (CFL: 24 U, GL: 20 U; n = 305), onabotulinumtoxinA 24 U (CFL: 24 U, GL: placebo; n = 306), or placebo (n = 306). Coprimary end points were investigator-assessed and subject-assessed proportion of subjects achieving a CFL Facial Wrinkle Scale Grade of 0 or 1 (maximum smile; Day 30, Cycle 1). Additional efficacy end points and safety/adverse events (AEs) were evaluated.<br><br>RESULTS: All primary and secondary end points were achieved; statistically significant differences favored onabotulinumtoxinA (p < .001, all comparisons vs placebo). Investigator and subject responder rates were: CFL, 54.9% and 45.8%; CFL + GL, 59.0% and 48.5%; and placebo, 3.3% (both), respectively. Responder rates on other end points also significantly favored onabotulinumtoxinA treatments. Most AEs were mild or moderate. Two subjects discontinued: 1 serious AE unrelated to treatment (myocardial infarction) and 1 treatment-related AE (injection site pain).<br><br>CONCLUSION: OnabotulinumtoxinA was effective and well tolerated for treating moderate-to-severe CFL alone or in combination with GL.}, }
@article {pmid25484292, year = {2014}, author = {Martinho, A and Burns, ZT and von Bayern, AM and Kacelnik, A}, title = {Monocular tool control, eye dominance, and laterality in New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {24}, number = {24}, pages = {2930-2934}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2014.10.035}, pmid = {25484292}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; *Dominance, Ocular ; Female ; *Functional Laterality ; Male ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Tool use, though rare, is taxonomically widespread, but morphological adaptations for tool use are virtually unknown. We focus on the New Caledonian crow (NCC, Corvus moneduloides), which displays some of the most innovative tool-related behavior among nonhumans. One of their major food sources is larvae extracted from burrows with sticks held diagonally in the bill, oriented with individual, but not species-wide, laterality. Among possible behavioral and anatomical adaptations for tool use, NCCs possess unusually wide binocular visual fields (up to 60°), suggesting that extreme binocular vision may facilitate tool use. Here, we establish that during natural extractions, tool tips can only be viewed by the contralateral eye. Thus, maintaining binocular view of tool tips is unlikely to have selected for wide binocular fields; the selective factor is more likely to have been to allow each eye to see far enough across the midsagittal line to view the tool's tip monocularly. Consequently, we tested the hypothesis that tool side preference follows eye preference and found that eye dominance does predict tool laterality across individuals. This contrasts with humans' species-wide motor laterality and uncorrelated motor-visual laterality, possibly because bill-held tools are viewed monocularly and move in concert with eyes, whereas hand-held tools are visible to both eyes and allow independent combinations of eye preference and handedness. This difference may affect other models of coordination between vision and mechanical control, not necessarily involving tools.}, }
@article {pmid25480696, year = {2014}, author = {Alberts, JR}, title = {Jay S. Rosenblatt (November 18, 1923-February 15, 2014).}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {66}, number = {5}, pages = {743-758}, doi = {10.1016/j.yhbeh.2014.09.006}, pmid = {25480696}, issn = {1095-6867}, support = {K18 HD068977/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, }
@article {pmid25475496, year = {2015}, author = {Martin, E and Cao, E}, title = {Euclidean chemical spaces from molecular fingerprints: Hamming distance and Hempel's ravens.}, journal = {Journal of computer-aided molecular design}, volume = {29}, number = {5}, pages = {387-395}, pmid = {25475496}, issn = {1573-4951}, mesh = {Boronic Acids/*chemistry ; *Chemistry, Pharmaceutical ; Computer Simulation ; Cyclosporine/*chemistry ; Databases, Factual ; *Models, Chemical ; Molecular Structure ; Paclitaxel/*chemistry ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; }, abstract = {Molecules are often characterized by sparse binary fingerprints, where 1s represent the presence of substructures and 0s represent their absence. Fingerprints are especially useful for similarity calculations, such as database searching or clustering, generally measuring similarity as the Tanimoto coefficient. In other cases, such as visualization, design of experiments, or latent variable regression, a low-dimensional Euclidian "chemical space" is more useful, where proximity between points reflects chemical similarity. A temptation is to apply principal components analysis (PCA) directly to these fingerprints to obtain a low dimensional continuous chemical space. However, Gower has shown that distances from PCA on bit vectors are proportional to the square root of Hamming distance. Unlike Tanimoto similarity, Hamming similarity (HS) gives equal weight to shared 0s as to shared 1s, that is, HS gives as much weight to substructures that neither molecule contains, as to substructures which both molecules contain. Illustrative examples show that proximity in the corresponding chemical space reflects mainly similar size and complexity rather than shared chemical substructures. These spaces are ill-suited for visualizing and optimizing coverage of chemical space, or as latent variables for regression. A more suitable alternative is shown to be Multi-dimensional scaling on the Tanimoto distance matrix, which produces a space where proximity does reflect structural similarity.}, }
@article {pmid25473210, year = {2014}, author = {Pak, CS and Lee, J and Lee, H and Jeong, J and Kim, EH and Jeong, J and Choi, H and Kim, B and Oh, S and Kim, I and Heo, CY}, title = {A phase III, randomized, double-blind, matched-pairs, active-controlled clinical trial and preclinical animal study to compare the durability, efficacy and safety between polynucleotide filler and hyaluronic acid filler in the correction of crow's feet: a new concept of regenerative filler.}, journal = {Journal of Korean medical science}, volume = {29 Suppl 3}, number = {Suppl 3}, pages = {S201-9}, pmid = {25473210}, issn = {1598-6357}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Dermatologic Surgical Procedures/*methods ; Double-Blind Method ; Elasticity/drug effects ; Female ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Injections, Intradermal ; Male ; Mice ; Middle Aged ; Polynucleotides/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Skin ; Skin Aging ; Surgery, Plastic/*methods ; Treatment Outcome ; Wound Healing ; }, abstract = {The Rejuran® is a new filler product made from purified polynucleotides. Here we present data from an animal study and a clinical trial to examine the durability, efficacy and safety of the Rejuran® on crow's feet. For the animal study, 25 mice were divided into three groups: Group 1 received phosphate buffered saline (PBS); Group 2 were treated with Yvoire®; and Group 3 were treated with Rejuran®. The durability and efficacy of each treatment were assessed by microscopy and staining. In the clinical trial, 72 patients were randomized to receive Rejuran® treatment for crow's feet on one side and Yvoire-Hydro® on the contralateral side, at a ratio of 1:1. Repeated treatments were performed every two weeks for a total of three times, over a total of 12 weeks' observation. All injections and observations of efficacy and safety were performed by the same two investigators. In the animal study, the Rejuran® group showed similar durability and inflammatory response to the Yvoire® group. Upon efficacy assessment, the Rejuran® group showed the greatest elasticity and collagen composition, and a significant difference in skin surface roughness and wrinkle depth. In the clinical trial, the primary and secondary objective efficacy outcome measure showed no statistical significance between the two groups, and in safety outcomes there were no unexpected adverse effects. Our data suggest that the Rejuran®, as a new regenerative filler, can be useful to reduce wrinkles, by showing evidence for its efficacy and safety.}, }
@article {pmid25462398, year = {2015}, author = {Freedman, D and Brown, AS and Shen, L and Schaefer, CA}, title = {Perinatal oxytocin increases the risk of offspring bipolar disorder and childhood cognitive impairment.}, journal = {Journal of affective disorders}, volume = {173}, number = {}, pages = {65-72}, pmid = {25462398}, issn = {1573-2517}, support = {R01 MH073080/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; K02 MH065422/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; N01-HD-1-3334/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; 5K02-MH65422/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; 2T32-MH-13043/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; 5R01 MH069819/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; N01-HD-6-3258/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH069819/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; 5R01-MH073080/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; T32 MH013043/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Administration, Intranasal ; Adult ; Bipolar Disorder/chemically induced/*psychology ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/chemically induced/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Oxytocics/administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; Oxytocin/*administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; Pregnancy ; Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/*chemically induced/*psychology ; Prospective Studies ; Risk Factors ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: We tested the hypothesis that perinatal oxytocin, given to pregnant women to induce labor, is related to offspring bipolar disorder (BP) and worse childhood cognitive performance among offspring. We also tested the association between childhood cognition and later BP.<br><br>METHODS: A population-based birth cohort derived from the Child Health and Development Study (CHDS) which included nearly all pregnant women receiving obstetric care from the Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Plan, Northern California Region (KPNC) between 1959 and 1966. Prospectively obtained medical and offspring cognitive performance were used. Potential cases with BP from the cohort were identified by database linkages. This protocol identified 94 cases who were matched 1:8 to controls.<br><br>RESULTS: Perinatal oxytocin was associated with a 2.4 times increased odds of later BP. Oxytocin was also associated with decreased performance on the Raven Matrices, but not on the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (PPVT). Childhood cognition was not associated with later BP.<br><br>LIMITATIONS: Loss to follow-up must be considered in all birth cohort studies. In addition, the childhood cognitive battery did not include tests related to multiple domains of cognition which have been associated with later BP. A third limitation is the modest sample size of those exposed to oxytocin.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study provides evidence for a potentially important perinatal risk factor for BP and cognitive impairment in childhood. While the association between perinatal oxytocin and offspring BP must be viewed cautiously until further studies can attempt to replicate the result, it lends support to the broader view that neurodevelopmental factors contribute to BP.}, }
@article {pmid25460660, year = {2015}, author = {do Nascimento, SN and Barth, A and Göethel, G and Baierle, M and Charão, MF and Brucker, N and Moro, AM and Bubols, GB and Sobreira, JS and Sauer, E and Rocha, R and Gioda, A and Dias, AC and Salles, JF and Garcia, SC}, title = {Cognitive deficits and ALA-D-inhibition in children exposed to multiple metals.}, journal = {Environmental research}, volume = {136}, number = {}, pages = {387-395}, doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2014.10.003}, pmid = {25460660}, issn = {1096-0953}, mesh = {Child ; Cognition Disorders/*chemically induced ; *Environmental Exposure ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mass Spectrometry ; Metals/*toxicity ; Porphobilinogen Synthase/*antagonists &amp; inhibitors ; Rural Population ; Urban Population ; }, abstract = {Children are especially vulnerable to adverse effects of multiple metals exposure. The aim of this study was to assess some metals concentrations such as lead (Pb), arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn) and iron (Fe) in whole blood, serum, hair and drinking water samples using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) in rural and urban children. In addition, evaluate the adverse effects of multiple metals exposure on cognitive function and δ-aminolevulinate dehydratase (ALA-D) activity. The cognitive ability assessment was performed by the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test. The ALA-D activity and ALA-D reactivation index (ALA-RE) activity with DTT and ZnCl2 also were determined. Forty-six rural children and 23 urban children were enrolled in this study. Rural children showed percentile IQ scores in the RCPM test significantly decreased in relation to urban children. According to multiple linear regression analysis, the Mn and Fe in hair may account for the cognitive deficits of children. Manganese and Fe in hair also were positively correlated with Mn and Fe in drinking water, respectively. These results suggest that drinking water is possibly a source of metals exposure in children. ALA-D activity was decreased and ALA-RE with DTT and ZnCl2 was increased in rural children in comparison to urban children. Moreover, ALA-D inhibition was correlated with Cr blood levels and ALA-RE/DDT and ALA-RE/ZnCl2 were correlated with levels of Cr and Hg in blood. Thus, our results indicated some adverse effects of children's exposure to multiple metals, such as cognitive deficits and ALA-D inhibition, mainly associated to Mn, Fe, Cr and Hg.}, }
@article {pmid25455033, year = {2014}, author = {Massen, JJ and Szipl, G and Spreafico, M and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Ravens intervene in others' bonding attempts.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {24}, number = {22}, pages = {2733-2736}, pmid = {25455033}, issn = {1879-0445}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {*Aggression ; Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Cooperative Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; *Object Attachment ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {The competition for power in a complex social world is hypothesized to be a driving force in the evolution of intelligence. More specifically, power may be obtained not only by brute force but also by social strategies resembling human politics. Most empirical evidence comes from primate studies that report unprovoked aggression by dominants to maintain power by spreading fear and third-party interventions in conflicts. Coalitionary support has also been described in other animals and is often linked to social bonding. As coalitions can lead to a gain in power and fitness benefits, individuals may try to prevent coalitionary support or indirectly prevent others from forming social bonds that might lead to coalitions. Although there is some empirical evidence that coalitionary support can be manipulated, little is known about the indirect strategy. We show here that wild ravens (Corvus corax) regularly intervene in affiliative interactions of others even though such interventions are potentially risky and without immediate benefits. Moreover, the identities of both interveners and intervened pairs are not randomly distributed. Ravens with existing ties initiate most interventions, and ravens that are creating new ties are most likely to be the targets of interventions. These patterns are consistent with the idea that interventions function to prevent others from forming alliances and consequently becoming future competitors. We thus show previously undescribed social maneuvers in the struggle for power. These maneuvers are likely to be of importance in other social species as well.}, }
@article {pmid25447513, year = {2015}, author = {Wascher, CA and Heiss, RS and Baglione, V and Canestrari, D}, title = {Behavioural responses to olfactory cues in carrion crows.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {111}, number = {}, pages = {1-5}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2014.11.009}, pmid = {25447513}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; *Cues ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Individuality ; Male ; *Odorants ; Recognition, Psychology/physiology ; Sex Characteristics ; Smell/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Until recently, the use of olfactory signals in birds has been largely ignored, despite the fact that birds do possess a fully functioning olfactory system and have been shown to use odours in social and foraging tasks, predator detection and orientation. The present study investigates whether carrion crows (Corvus corone corone), a bird species living in complex social societies, respond behaviourally to olfactory cues of conspecifics. During our experiment, carrion crows were observed less often close to the conspecific scent compared to a control side. Because conspecific scent was extracted during handling, a stressful procedure for birds, we interpreted the general avoidance of the 'scent' side as disfavour against a stressed conspecific. However, males, unlike females, showed less avoidance towards the scent of a familiar individual compared to an unfamiliar one, which might reflect a stronger interest in the information conveyed and/or willingness to provide social support.}, }
@article {pmid25438601, year = {2013}, author = {Atramentova, LA and Meshcheryakova, IP and Filipsova, OV}, title = {[Reproduction characteristics and Crow's index in different groups of Yevpatoria population].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {49}, number = {12}, pages = {1398-1406}, doi = {10.7868/s0016675813110039}, pmid = {25438601}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Consanguinity ; Female ; *Fertility ; Humans ; Islam ; Middle Aged ; Pregnancy/*ethnology/genetics/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Russia ; Selection, Genetic ; Self Report ; Ukraine ; }, abstract = {According to the obstetric history of Yevpatoria residents of postreproductive age, the parameters of the dif- ferential fertility as components of the natural selection (index Crow) in Slavic (Russian and Ukrainian) and non-Slavic individuals have been calculated. It is shown that, in the studied population, in one generation, the index of total selection decreased from 0.3 to 0.32 by reducing the value Im. For Slavic females, the average number of pregnancies is 5.26, while the number of offspring is 1.75, and the index of total selection equals 0.31. For non-Slavic women, these ratings were 4.84, 2.09, and 0.46. In non-Slavic women, natural reproductive losses occur more frequently than in Slavic women, which may be associated with inbreeding, the level of which is usually higher in members of the Muslim faith. The average number of adverse pregnancy outcomes in the non-Slavic families is 0.759, while for Slavic families, it is 0.503. Reproductive problems were observed in 36.4% of Slavic families and 44.8% of non-Slavic families. The index of total selection in non-Slavs (0.46) is 1.5 times higher than in Slavs (0.31). The difference is due to the selection component, coupled with differential fertility (0.36 and 0.23, respectively). Interethnic differences in the rate of natural increase can change the ethnic and denominational composition of the city, leading to an increase in the Muslim component.}, }
@article {pmid25437492, year = {2015}, author = {Auersperg, AM and van Horik, JO and Bugnyar, T and Kacelnik, A and Emery, NJ and von Bayern, AM}, title = {Combinatory actions during object play in psittaciformes (Diopsittaca nobilis, Pionites melanocephala, Cacatua goffini) and corvids (Corvus corax, C. monedula, C. moneduloides).}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {129}, number = {1}, pages = {62-71}, doi = {10.1037/a0038314}, pmid = {25437492}, issn = {1939-2087}, support = {J 3404/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Cockatoos ; Crows ; Parrots ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Psittaciformes/*physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The playful (i.e., not overtly functional) combination of objects is considered a potential ontogenetic and phylogenetic precursor of technical problem solving abilities, as it may lead to affordance learning and honing of mechanical skills. We compared such activities in 6 avian species: 3 psittaciforms (black-headed caiques, red-shouldered macaws, and Goffin cockatoos) and 3 corvids (New Caledonian crows, ravens, and jackdaws). Differences in the type and frequency of object combinations were consistent with species' ecology. Object caching was found predominately in common ravens, which frequently cache food. The most intrinsically structured object combinations were found in New Caledonian crows and Goffin cockatoos, which both stand out for their problem solving abilities in physical tasks. Object insertions prevailed in New Caledonian crows that naturally extract food using tools. Our results support the idea that playful manipulations of inedible objects are linked to physical cognition and problem-solving abilities.}, }
@article {pmid25431821, year = {2016}, author = {Morinha, F and Clemente, C and Cabral, JA and Lewicka, MM and Travassos, P and Carvalho, D and Dávila, JA and Santos, M and Blanco, G and Bastos, E}, title = {Next-generation sequencing and comparative analysis of Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax and Pyrrhocorax graculus (Passeriformes: Corvidae) mitochondrial genomes.}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part A, DNA mapping, sequencing, and analysis}, volume = {27}, number = {3}, pages = {2278-2281}, doi = {10.3109/19401736.2014.984179}, pmid = {25431821}, issn = {2470-1408}, mesh = {Animals ; Codon, Initiator ; Codon, Terminator ; Comparative Genomic Hybridization ; DNA, Mitochondrial/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification/metabolism ; Electron Transport Complex IV/chemistry/genetics ; *Genome, Mitochondrial ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; NADH Dehydrogenase/chemistry/genetics ; Open Reading Frames/genetics ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification/metabolism ; RNA, Transfer/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification/metabolism ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {The complete mitochondrial genomes of Red-billed Chough (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax) and Yellow-billed Chough (Pyrrhocorax graculus) were sequenced using the Ion Torrent PGM platform. These mitogenomes contain 16,889 bp (Red-billed Chough) and 16,905 bp (Yellow-billed Chough), including 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and a control region (D-loop). The gene content, orientation, and structure are similar to a wide range of other vertebrate species and the nucleotide composition is very similar to other Passeriformes. All PCGs start with ATG, except for COX1 that starts with GTG, and four stop codons and one incomplete stop codon are used (TAA, TAG, AGG, AGA, and T-). The size of PCGs is the same in both mitogenomes, except for ND6 that has one codon less in the Yellow-billed Chough. All the tRNAs can fold into a typical cloverleaf secondary structure. These mitogenomic data can be of great value in complementing forthcoming approaches on molecular ecology, comparative and functional genomics.}, }
@article {pmid25430344, year = {2014}, author = {Swadling, GF and Lebedev, SV and Hall, GN and Patankar, S and Stewart, NH and Smith, RA and Harvey-Thompson, AJ and Burdiak, GC and de Grouchy, P and Skidmore, J and Suttle, L and Suzuki-Vidal, F and Bland, SN and Kwek, KH and Pickworth, L and Bennett, M and Hare, JD and Rozmus, W and Yuan, J}, title = {Diagnosing collisions of magnetized, high energy density plasma flows using a combination of collective Thomson scattering, Faraday rotation, and interferometry (invited).}, journal = {The Review of scientific instruments}, volume = {85}, number = {11}, pages = {11E502}, doi = {10.1063/1.4890564}, pmid = {25430344}, issn = {1089-7623}, abstract = {A suite of laser based diagnostics is used to study interactions of magnetised, supersonic, radiatively cooled plasma flows produced using the Magpie pulse power generator (1.4 MA, 240 ns rise time). Collective optical Thomson scattering measures the time-resolved local flow velocity and temperature across 7-14 spatial positions. The scattering spectrum is recorded from multiple directions, allowing more accurate reconstruction of the flow velocity vectors. The areal electron density is measured using 2D interferometry; optimisation and analysis are discussed. The Faraday rotation diagnostic, operating at 1053 nm, measures the magnetic field distribution in the plasma. Measurements obtained simultaneously by these diagnostics are used to constrain analysis, increasing the accuracy of interpretation.}, }
@article {pmid25430184, year = {2014}, author = {Hall, GN and Burdiak, GC and Suttle, L and Stuart, NH and Swadling, GF and Lebedev, SV and Smith, RA and Patankar, S and Suzuki-Vidal, F and de Grouchy, P and Harvey-Thompson, AJ and Bennett, M and Bland, SN and Pickworth, L and Skidmore, J}, title = {Monochromatic radiography of high energy density physics experiments on the MAGPIE generator.}, journal = {The Review of scientific instruments}, volume = {85}, number = {11}, pages = {11D608}, doi = {10.1063/1.4890262}, pmid = {25430184}, issn = {1089-7623}, abstract = {A monochromatic X-ray backlighter based on Bragg reflection from a spherically bent quartz crystal has been developed for the MAGPIE pulsed power generator at Imperial College (1.4 MA, 240 ns) [I. H. Mitchell et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 67, 1533 (2005)]. This instrument has been used to diagnose high energy density physics experiments with 1.865 keV radiation (Silicon He-α) from a laser plasma source driven by a ∼7 J, 1 ns pulse from the Cerberus laser. The design of the diagnostic, its characterisation and performance, and initial results in which the instrument was used to radiograph a shock physics experiment on MAGPIE are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid25426825, year = {2015}, author = {Lang, X and Liu, H and Qin, W and Zhang, Y and Xuan, Y and Yu, C}, title = {Brain functional connectivity density and individual fluid reasoning capacity in healthy young adults.}, journal = {Neuroreport}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {17-21}, doi = {10.1097/WNR.0000000000000294}, pmid = {25426825}, issn = {1473-558X}, mesh = {Brain/*physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Female ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Neural Pathways/physiology ; Psychological Tests ; Sex Characteristics ; Thinking/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Functional connectivity density (FCD) is a newly developed data-driven method to measure the number of functional connections of each voxel, possibly providing new insight into the neural correlates of fluid reasoning. Here, we recruited 211 healthy young adults (91 men and 120 women) to investigate associations between the global FCD and fluid reasoning capacity as measured by the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices scores were correlated negatively with the global FCD in multiple brain regions of the frontal, parietal, occipital, and temporal cortices in male participants. No significant correlation was found in female participants. Our findings confirmed the association between fluid reasoning and functional connectivity of multiple cognitive-related brain regions. The positive correlation with the functional connectivity strength and the negative correlation between fluid reasoning and FCD suggest that individuals with superior fluid reasoning capacity may possess a small number of strong functional connections. The sex dichotomy of this association indicates that the fluid reasoning capacity of men and women may have different neural substrates.}, }
@article {pmid25424402, year = {2014}, author = {Frankel, KA and Croy, CD and Kubicek, LF and Emde, RN and Mitchell, CM and Spicer, P}, title = {Toddler socioemotional behavior in a northern plains Indian tribe: associations with maternal psychosocial well-being.}, journal = {Infant mental health journal}, volume = {35}, number = {1}, pages = {10-20}, doi = {10.1002/imhj.21422}, pmid = {25424402}, issn = {1097-0355}, support = {R01 HD042760/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; HD42760/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Child Behavior/*psychology ; Child, Preschool ; Depression/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Indians, North American/*psychology ; Male ; Mother-Child Relations/*psychology ; Regression Analysis ; Risk Factors ; Social Isolation/psychology ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Stress, Psychological/psychology ; Substance-Related Disorders/psychology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {M.C. Sarche, C.D. Croy, C. Big Crow, C. Mitchell, and P. Spicer (2009) provided first-ever information relating the socioemotional development of American Indian toddlers to the immediate context of their mothers' lives. The current study sought to replicate and build on their earlier work by examining the impact of additional maternal risk factors, identified in previous research with non-American Indian populations, on the development of American Indian toddlers: maternal depression, negative social influences, and mother's feelings of isolation. At 27 months, American Indian mothers (N = 110) completed the Parent Demographic Questionnaire, which measured maternal psychosocial characteristics (e.g., depressed affect, social support, drug and alcohol use, isolation) and demographics. Mothers also completed the Infant-Toddler Social Emotional Assessment (A.S. Carter &amp; M.J. Briggs-Gowan, 2006) and the Parent-Child Dysfunctional Interaction subscale of the Parenting Stress Index (R.R. Abidin, 1995, 1997). Some results replicated the original study, but others did not. Reports of a dysfunctional mother-child relationship related to externalizing and internalizing problems, replicating the earlier study. This study also found associations between a dysfunctional mother-child relationship and socioemotional competence as well as dysregulation. The previous finding of a relationship between American Indian identity and socioemotional competence was supported. Adding the effects of maternal depressed affect and isolation significantly increased prediction of toddler behavior problems.}, }
@article {pmid25419053, year = {2015}, author = {Mates, EA and Tarter, RR and Ha, JC and Clark, AB and McGowan, KJ}, title = {Acoustic profiling in a complexly social species, the American crow: caws encode information on caller sex, identity, and behavioural context.}, journal = {Bioacoustics}, volume = {24}, number = {1}, pages = {63-80}, pmid = {25419053}, issn = {0952-4622}, support = {T32 DC000033/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Previous research on inter-individual variation in the calls of corvids has largely been restricted to single call types, such as alarm or contact calls, and has rarely considered the effects of age on call structure. This study explores structural variation in a contextually diverse set of "caw" calls of the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), including alarm, foraging recruitment and territorial calls, and searches for structural features that may be associated with behavioural context and caller sex, age, and identity. Automated pitch detection algorithms are used to generate 23 pitch-related and spectral parameters for a collection of caws from 18 wild, marked crows. Using principal component analysis and mixed models, we identify independent axes of acoustic variation associated with behavioural context and with caller sex, respectively. We also have moderate success predicting caller sex and identity from call structure. However, we do not find significant acoustic variation with respect to caller age.}, }
@article {pmid25413897, year = {2015}, author = {Ruiz, MJ and Paolieri, D and Colzato, LS and Bajo, MT}, title = {Chronic and recreational use of cocaine is associated with a vulnerability to semantic interference.}, journal = {Psychopharmacology}, volume = {232}, number = {10}, pages = {1717-1726}, pmid = {25413897}, issn = {1432-2072}, mesh = {Adult ; Chronic Disease ; Cocaine/*administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; Cocaine-Related Disorders/diagnosis/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Illicit Drugs/*adverse effects ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Photic Stimulation/methods ; *Semantics ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {RATIONALE: Language production requires that speakers effectively recruit inhibitory control to successfully produce speech. The use of cocaine is associated with impairments in cognitive control processes in the non-verbal domain, but the impact of chronic and recreational use of cocaine on these processes during language production remains undetermined.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: This study aims to observe the possible impairment of inhibitory control in language production among chronic and recreational cocaine polydrug users.<br><br>METHOD: Two experiments were carried out on chronic (experiment 1) and recreational (experiment 2) cocaine polydrug users performing a blocked-cycled naming task, yielding an index of semantic interference. Participants were matched for sex, age, and intelligence (Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices) with cocaine-free controls, and their performance was compared on the blocked-cycled naming task.<br><br>RESULTS: Chronic and recreational users showed significantly larger semantic interference effects than cocaine-free controls, thereby indicating a deficit in the ability to inhibit interfering information.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Evidence indicates a relationship between the consumption of cocaine, even at recreational levels, and the inhibitory processes that suppress the overactive lexical representations in the semantic context. This deficit may be critical in adapting and responding to many real-life situations where an efficient self-monitoring system is necessary for the prevention of errors.}, }
@article {pmid25405764, year = {2014}, author = {Perignon, M and Fiorentino, M and Kuong, K and Burja, K and Parker, M and Sisokhom, S and Chamnan, C and Berger, J and Wieringa, FT}, title = {Stunting, poor iron status and parasite infection are significant risk factors for lower cognitive performance in Cambodian school-aged children.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {11}, pages = {e112605}, pmid = {25405764}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Anemia, Iron-Deficiency/*complications/epidemiology ; Cambodia ; Child ; *Child Development ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Nutritional Status ; Parasitic Diseases/*complications/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Nutrition is one of many factors affecting the cognitive development of children. In Cambodia, 55% of children <5 y were anemic and 40% stunted in 2010. Currently, no data exists on the nutritional status of Cambodian school-aged children, or on how malnutrition potentially affects their cognitive development.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To assess the anthropometric and micronutrient status (iron, vitamin A, zinc, iodine) of Cambodian schoolchildren and their associations with cognitive performance.<br><br>METHODS: School children aged 6-16 y (n&#x200a;=&#x200a;2443) from 20 primary schools in Cambodia were recruited. Anthropometry, hemoglobin, serum ferritin, transferrin receptors, retinol-binding protein and zinc concentrations, inflammation status, urinary iodine concentration and parasite infection were measured. Socio-economic data were collected in a sub-group of children (n&#x200a;=&#x200a;616). Cognitive performance was assessed using Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) and block design and picture completion, two standardized tests from the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-III).<br><br>RESULTS: The prevalence of anemia, iron, zinc, iodine and vitamin A deficiency were 15.7%; 51.2%, 92.8%, 17.3% and 0.7% respectively. The prevalence of stunting was 40.0%, including 10.9% of severe stunting. Stunted children scored significantly lower than non-stunted children on all tests. In RCPM test, boys with iron-deficiency anemia had lower scores than boys with normal iron status (-1.46, p<0.05). In picture completion test, children with normal iron status tended to score higher than iron-deficient children with anemia (-0.81; p&#x200a;=&#x200a;0.067) or without anemia (-0.49; p&#x200a;=&#x200a;0.064). Parasite infection was associated with an increase in risk of scoring below the median value in block design test (OR&#x200a;=&#x200a;1.62; p<0.05), and with lower scores in other tests, for girls only (both p<0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Poor cognitive performance of Cambodian school-children was multifactorial and significantly associated with long-term (stunting) and current nutritional status indicators (iron status), as well as parasite infection. A life-cycle approach with programs to improve nutrition in early life and at school-age could contribute to optimal cognitive performance.}, }
@article {pmid25399622, year = {2014}, author = {Yaworsky, A and Daniels, S and Tully, S and Beddingfield, F and Kowalski, J and Fitzgerald, K and Somogyi, C and Burgess, SM}, title = {The impact of upper facial lines and psychological impact of crow's feet lines: content validation of the Facial Line Outcomes (FLO-11) Questionnaire.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {13}, number = {4}, pages = {297-306}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.12117}, pmid = {25399622}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Body Image/*psychology ; *Face ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Self Concept ; *Skin Aging ; *Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Treatments for upper facial lines (UFL), the most visible sign of aging, are of interest to patients and clinicians alike. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are valuable in evaluating the impact of such treatments; however, regulatory recommendations have stipulated that the patient perspective be central in developing these assessments.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: (1) To evaluate the content validity of the Facial Lines Outcomes Questionnaire, a PRO instrument developed to assess upper facial line impacts, according to the regulatory guidance of the United States Food and Drug Administration and (2) assess whether it adequately measures the psychological impacts associated with crow's feet lines (CFL) (lateral canthal lines) from the patient perspective.<br><br>METHODS: Two patient groups participated in face-to-face qualitative interviews. One group included patients with UFL (Group 1, n&#xa0;=&#xa0;25 interviews), and the other included patients specifically with CFL (Group 2, n&#xa0;=&#xa0;41 interviews). Each interview consisted of a concept elicitation and cognitive debriefing phase.<br><br>RESULTS: Interviews with both groups elicited all key concepts of the instrument, including "bothered by facial lines"; "looking older"; "looking less attractive"; and looking "tired," "stressed," or "angry." Most Group 2 patients (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;35, 85%) agreed that the instrument adequately assessed the psychological impacts associated with CFL. During cognitive debriefing, the majority of patients in both groups agreed the instrument was understandable, comprehensive, and easy to complete.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The Facial Line Outcomes Questionnaire is an appropriate and valid tool to assess the impact of UFL and the psychological impacts associated with CFL.}, }
@article {pmid25395695, year = {2015}, author = {Hayes, TR and Petrov, AA and Sederberg, PB}, title = {Do We Really Become Smarter When Our Fluid-Intelligence Test Scores Improve?.}, journal = {Intelligence}, volume = {48}, number = {}, pages = {1-14}, pmid = {25395695}, issn = {0160-2896}, support = {R21 EY022745/EY/NEI NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Recent reports of training-induced gains on fluid intelligence tests have fueled an explosion of interest in cognitive training-now a billion-dollar industry. The interpretation of these results is questionable because score gains can be dominated by factors that play marginal roles in the scores themselves, and because intelligence gain is not the only possible explanation for the observed control-adjusted far transfer across tasks. Here we present novel evidence that the test score gains used to measure the efficacy of cognitive training may reflect strategy refinement instead of intelligence gains. A novel scanpath analysis of eye movement data from 35 participants solving Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices on two separate sessions indicated that one-third of the variance of score gains could be attributed to test-taking strategy alone, as revealed by characteristic changes in eye-fixation patterns. When the strategic contaminant was partialled out, the residual score gains were no longer significant. These results are compatible with established theories of skill acquisition suggesting that procedural knowledge tacitly acquired during training can later be utilized at posttest. Our novel method and result both underline a reason to be wary of purported intelligence gains, but also provide a way forward for testing for them in the future.}, }
@article {pmid25389754, year = {2014}, author = {Legagneux, P and Suffice, P and Messier, JS and Lelievre, F and Tremblay, JA and Maisonneuve, C and Saint-Louis, R and Bêty, J}, title = {High risk of lead contamination for scavengers in an area with high moose hunting success.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {11}, pages = {e111546}, pmid = {25389754}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Animals, Wild ; Birds ; Crows ; Eagles ; Environmental Monitoring ; Food Chain ; Isotopes/analysis ; Lead/analysis/blood ; Lead Poisoning/*etiology ; Models, Statistical ; Quebec ; Ursidae ; }, abstract = {Top predators and scavengers are vulnerable to pollutants, particularly those accumulated along the food chain. Lead accumulation can induce severe disorders and alter survival both in mammals (including humans) and in birds. A potential source of lead poisoning in wild animals, and especially in scavengers, results from the consumption of ammunition residues in the tissues of big game killed by hunters. For two consecutive years we quantified the level lead exposure in individuals of a sentinel scavenger species, the common raven (Corvus corax), captured during the moose (Alces alces) hunting season in eastern Quebec, Canada. The source of the lead contamination was also determined using stable isotope analyses. Finally, we identified the different scavenger species that could potentially be exposed to lead by installing automatic cameras targeting moose gut piles. Blood lead concentration in ravens increased over time, indicating lead accumulation over the moose-hunting season. Using a contamination threshold of 100 µg x L(-1), more than 50% of individuals were lead-contaminated during the moose hunting period. Lead concentration was twice as high in one year compared to the other, matching the number of rifle-shot moose in the area. Non-contaminated birds exhibited no ammunition isotope signatures. The isotope signature of the lead detected in contaminated ravens tended towards the signature from lead ammunition. We also found that black bears (Ursus americanus), golden eagles and bald eagles (Aquila chrysaetos and Haliaeetus leucocephalus, two species of conservation concern) scavenged heavily on moose viscera left by hunters. Our unequivocal results agree with other studies and further motivate the use of non-toxic ammunition for big game hunting.}, }
@article {pmid25382294, year = {2016}, author = {Calistri, P and Savini, L and Candeloro, L and Di Sabatino, D and Cito, F and Bruno, R and Danzetta, ML}, title = {A Transitional Model for the Evaluation of West Nile Virus Transmission in Italy.}, journal = {Transboundary and emerging diseases}, volume = {63}, number = {5}, pages = {485-496}, doi = {10.1111/tbed.12290}, pmid = {25382294}, issn = {1865-1682}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/virology ; Culicidae/virology ; *Disease Vectors ; Italy ; *Models, Statistical ; Public Health ; West Nile Fever/*transmission ; West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {In August 2008, after 10 years of apparent silence, West Nile virus (WNV) infection re-emerged in northern Italy, spreading through the territories of three regions. In the following years, new cases occurred in the same area and additional foci of infection were observed in central and southern Italy, involving also Sicily and Sardinia islands. The Italian Ministry of Health ordered to test by RT-PCR all blood and organ donors from 15th June to 15th November of each year in the infected areas. The period at risk of WNV transmission was defined on the basis of literature data, but a more scientific estimation of the transmission season, under Italian circumstances, needs to be performed. A transitional model previously developed by other Authors was applied and adapted to Italian circumstances, to describe and quantify the WNV transmission cycle between birds and mosquitoes. Culex spp. was considered the main vector, and mosquito parameters were adapted to this genus. Magpies (Pica pica) were considered the main bird host. The model was partially validated through the results of the entomological surveys carried out in central Italy and in Po Valley. The results of the transitional model permitted to calculate the basic reproduction number (R0) during 2010 for the whole Italian territory at 1 km of spatial resolution, estimating the risk of WNV transmission during the year and creating detailed risk maps for Italy. The mean values of R0 for the whole Italy varied between 0.4 and 4.8, with values >1 from the end of May to the middle of September. The coastal and flat zones of Italy showed the highest R0 values. Although partially validated, the model showed a substantial acceptable capacity of defining the period at major risk of WNV transmission in Italy, helping Public health authorities in the application of appropriate and timely control and preventive measures.}, }
@article {pmid25381245, year = {2015}, author = {Jamborova, I and Dolejska, M and Vojtech, J and Guenther, S and Uricariu, R and Drozdowska, J and Papousek, I and Pasekova, K and Meissner, W and Hordowski, J and Cizek, A and Literak, I}, title = {Plasmid-mediated resistance to cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones in various Escherichia coli sequence types isolated from rooks wintering in Europe.}, journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology}, volume = {81}, number = {2}, pages = {648-657}, pmid = {25381245}, issn = {1098-5336}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/*pharmacology ; Cephalosporins/*pharmacology ; Crows/*microbiology ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Electrophoresis, Gel, Pulsed-Field ; Escherichia coli/*classification/*drug effects/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Europe ; Fluoroquinolones/*pharmacology ; Genes, Bacterial ; Genotype ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; Plasmids ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; }, abstract = {Extended-spectrum-beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing, AmpC beta-lactamase-producing, and plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) gene-positive strains of Escherichia coli were investigated in wintering rooks (Corvus frugilegus) from eight European countries. Fecal samples (n = 1,073) from rooks wintering in the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Serbia, Spain, and Switzerland were examined. Resistant isolates obtained from selective cultivation were screened for ESBL, AmpC, and PMQR genes by PCR and sequencing. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and multilocus sequence typing were performed to reveal their clonal relatedness. In total, from the 1,073 samples, 152 (14%) cefotaxime-resistant E. coli isolates and 355 (33%) E. coli isolates with reduced susceptibility to ciprofloxacin were found. Eighty-two (54%) of these cefotaxime-resistant E. coli isolates carried the following ESBL genes: blaCTX-M-1 (n = 39 isolates), blaCTX-M-15 (n = 25), blaCTX-M-24 (n = 4), blaTEM-52 (n = 4), blaCTX-M-14 (n = 2), blaCTX-M-55 (n = 2), blaSHV-12 (n = 2), blaCTX-M-8 (n = 1), blaCTX-M-25 (n = 1), blaCTX-M-28 (n = 1), and an unspecified gene (n = 1). Forty-seven (31%) cefotaxime-resistant E. coli isolates carried the blaCMY-2 AmpC beta-lactamase gene. Sixty-two (17%) of the E. coli isolates with reduced susceptibility to ciprofloxacin were positive for the PMQR genes qnrS1 (n = 54), qnrB19 (n = 4), qnrS1 and qnrB19 (n = 2), qnrS2 (n = 1), and aac(6')-Ib-cr (n = 1). Eleven isolates from the Czech Republic (n = 8) and Serbia (n = 3) were identified to be CTX-M-15-producing E. coli clone B2-O25b-ST131 isolates. Ninety-one different sequence types (STs) among 191 ESBL-producing, AmpC-producing, and PMQR gene-positive E. coli isolates were determined, with ST58 (n = 15), ST10 (n = 14), and ST131 (n = 12) predominating. The widespread occurrence of highly diverse ESBL- and AmpC-producing and PMQR gene-positive E. coli isolates, including the clinically important multiresistant ST69, ST95, ST117, ST131, and ST405 clones, was demonstrated in rooks wintering in various European countries.}, }
@article {pmid25378217, year = {2015}, author = {Small, TW and Schoech, SJ}, title = {Sex differences in the long-term repeatability of the acute stress response in long-lived, free-living Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens).}, journal = {Journal of comparative physiology. B, Biochemical, systemic, and environmental physiology}, volume = {185}, number = {1}, pages = {119-133}, pmid = {25378217}, issn = {1432-136X}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Corticosterone/*blood ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay ; Female ; Florida ; Hydrocortisone/*blood ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Radioimmunoassay ; *Sex Characteristics ; Stress, Physiological/*physiology ; }, abstract = {There is increasing evidence that individual differences in the physiological stress response are persistent traits in many animals. To test the hypothesis that the stress-induced CORT (SI-CORT) response is repeatable over the adult life span of Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens), we sampled 32 male and 25 female free-living scrub-jays (aged 2-13 years) during a 9-year period (2004-2012). Each individual was sampled two to five times and samples were collected one or more years apart during the pre-breeding season (Jan-March). In addition, individuals sampled over the greatest time period (6-8 years) were analyzed separately to more closely assess long-term repeatability. SI-CORT was repeatable in females, but not males, when values were not corrected for confounding variables (agreement repeatability). However, when the year and time of day of sample collection were controlled (adjusted repeatability), SI-CORT was repeatable in both sexes. SI-CORT was also repeatable in the males and females sampled 6-8 years apart. Finally, baseline CORT levels of males, but not females, exhibited low but significant repeatability when adjusted for year. The results of this study demonstrate that differences in SI-CORT levels were repeatable within adult scrub-jays sampled up to 8 years apart. Further, the female SI-CORT response was more consistent between pre-breeding seasons than males, which may have resulted from males having higher SI-CORT plasticity in response to environmental conditions. These data support the hypothesis that the SI-CORT response of Florida scrub-jays develops before adulthood and persists throughout much, if not all, of their natural adult life span.}, }
@article {pmid25351787, year = {2015}, author = {Song, EJ and Lee, JA and Park, JJ and Kim, HJ and Kim, NS and Byun, KS and Choi, GS and Moon, TK}, title = {A study on seasonal variation of skin parameters in Korean males.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {37}, number = {1}, pages = {92-97}, doi = {10.1111/ics.12174}, pmid = {25351787}, issn = {1468-2494}, mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Republic of Korea ; *Seasons ; *Skin Physiological Phenomena ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The physiological characteristics of the skin are varied greatly, depending on gender, age, region and race, and many dermatologic researches have been performed through various research methods. This study aimed to examine how Korean men's skin conditions were influenced by temperature or humidity changes caused by seasonal rotations.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 100 healthy Korean men, age range 20-59&#xa0;years, participated in the study for both summer and winter. We compared on the characteristics of skin between summer and winter. The skin hydration, skin pH and TEWL were evaluated on the forehead, cheek and forearm. The skin sebum content of the glabella, nasal ala and cheek was measured using Sebumeter(&#xae;) (SM810, Courage+Khazaka, Germany). Cutometer(&#xae;) (MPA 580 Courage+Khazaka, Germany) the elasticity was measured by on the cheeks, and PRIMOS lite(&#xae;) (Phase shift Rapid in vivo Measurement of Skin, GFMesstechnik GmbH, Germany) was used to evaluate wrinkles on crow's feet. Lastly, in addition, the skin pore of the face was measured using the Janus(&#xae;) (PSI, Korea) which is a facial analysis system.<br><br>RESULTS: The results were as follows: the comparison of hydration in summer and winter shows significant differences in their forehead, cheeks and forearm. The pH values of the skin surface were generally higher in winter, and significantly different on each site, and the sebum content was higher in summer than in winter. As a result of the pore measurement, the summer showed more pores compared to the winter, and there was a statistically significant difference in skin pores between summer and winter. The sensitivity measured by stinging test increases significantly more in winter than in summer. However, there were no seasonal differences in wrinkles and skin brightness.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The skin surface pH, TEWL, sebum content, hydration, elasticity, wrinkles, skin pore and skin sensitivity vary with seasons and body regions in Korean men.}, }
@article {pmid25351586, year = {2014}, author = {Fulton, R and Klass, D and Doka, KJ and Kastenbaum, B}, title = {Introduction to special issue: Robert Jay Kastenbaum (1932-2013).}, journal = {Omega}, volume = {70}, number = {1}, pages = {3-11}, doi = {10.2190/OM.70.1.b}, pmid = {25351586}, issn = {0030-2228}, mesh = {Attitude to Death ; Euthanasia, Active/*history ; *Famous Persons ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Professional Role/*history ; Right to Die/*history ; }, abstract = {The three pieces in this section introduce the Festschrift celebrating the works and influence of Omega: Journal of Death and Dying's founding editor, Robert Kastenbaum. Robert Fulton, an early Associate Editor of the Journal begins with some personal reflections on Kastenbaum. Klass and Doka then describe the nature of the Festschrift. A closing coda by Robert Kastenbaum's wife, Beatrice Kastenbaum, reminds us of the person behind the work.}, }
@article {pmid25351585, year = {2014}, author = {Klass, D and Doka, KJ}, title = {Festschrift In honor of Robert Jay Kastenbaum, PhD.}, journal = {Omega}, volume = {70}, number = {1}, pages = {1-141}, doi = {10.2190/OM.70.1.a}, pmid = {25351585}, issn = {0030-2228}, mesh = {Attitude to Death ; Euthanasia, Active/*history ; *Famous Persons ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Professional Role/*history ; Right to Die/*history ; }, }
@article {pmid25350210, year = {2014}, author = {Troncone, A}, title = {Problems of "draw-a-person: a quantitative scoring system" (DAP:QSS) as a measure of intelligence.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {115}, number = {2}, pages = {485-498}, doi = {10.2466/03.04.PR0.115c25z8}, pmid = {25350210}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {Child ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests/*standards ; Male ; Psychometrics/*instrumentation ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {There has been some ongoing debate on whether the DAP:QSS can be used to measure intelligence. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the concurrent validity of the DAP:QSS with Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) and the DAP:QSS's accuracy as a predictor of RCPM scores and academic achievement. 184 children from two elementary schools in a region of Southern Italy was evaluated by the DAP:QSS, the RCPM, the Goodenough-Harris Drawing Test (GH), and school marks. Drawings' scores, school marks, and RCPM scores were subjected to a Pearson's correlation. Stepwise regression analyses were carried out to identify significant predictors of RCPM scores and school marks. After controlling for socioeconomic status, the DAP:QSS showed a significant correlation with the RCPM and GH tests and academic achievement. However, the modest correlations with the RCPM, the small amount of variance in RCPM scores accounted for by the DAP:QSS (R(2) = .24), and the errors of the DAP:QSS in correctly classifying participants with borderline/deficient intellectual functioning advise against the use of the DAP:QSS as a measure of intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid25348835, year = {2015}, author = {Ghosh, S and Chowdhury, SD and Chandra, AM and Ghosh, T}, title = {Grades of undernutrition and socioeconomic status influence cognitive development in school children of Kolkata.}, journal = {American journal of physical anthropology}, volume = {156}, number = {2}, pages = {274-285}, doi = {10.1002/ajpa.22648}, pmid = {25348835}, issn = {1096-8644}, mesh = {Body Height/*physiology ; Body Weight/*physiology ; Child Development/*physiology ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Growth Charts ; Humans ; India/epidemiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Malnutrition/*epidemiology ; Nutritional Status ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Students/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {Cognitive development of children is influenced by different environmental factors like nutritional and socio-economic status. The objectives of the present study were to determine the influence of grades of undernutrition and socio-economic status (SES) on the cognitive development of school children of Kolkata. Five hundred sixty six (566) school children having 5-12 years of age were selected from different schools of Kolkata. The cognitive development was measured by the scores of Raven's colored progressive matrices (RCPM). The chronic and acute nutritional statuses were measured from height-for-age (HAZ) and weight-for-age (WAZ) Z scores respectively with reference to the values of WHO. SES was determined by updated Kuppuswamy scale. The prevalences of undernutrition in the observed children were 57.95% (according to HAZ) and 52.82% (according to WAZ). The age dependent growth curve of RCPM scores of the observed children remains in between the 10th and 25th centile of British children. The children belonging to superior and intellectual deficit IQ classes were 21.55 and 36.40%, respectively of the total subjects. Most of the subjects belong to lower middle (39.93%) and upper middle (36.40%) class of SES. RCPM scores of school children were gradually decreased with the grades of undernutrition and SES. RCPM scores were significantly correlated with HAZ, WAZ, SES, age, and sex (P < 0.001) and strongly associated with HAZ, SES, age, and sex (P < 0.001, P < 0.05). Present study indicates that cognitive development of school children of Kolkata is influenced by the grade of undernutrition and SES.}, }
@article {pmid25347451, year = {2014}, author = {Carruthers, A and Bruce, S and de Coninck, A and Connolly, S and Cox, SE and Davis, PG and Campo, A and Lei, X and Somogyi, C and Lee, E and McLean, H and Beddingfield, F}, title = {Efficacy and safety of onabotulinumtoxinA for the treatment of crows feet lines: a multicenter, randomized, controlled trial.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {40}, number = {11}, pages = {1181-1190}, doi = {10.1097/DSS.0000000000000128}, pmid = {25347451}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study was part of a Phase 3 program treating crow's feet lines (CFL) with onabotulinumtoxinA.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of onabotulinumtoxinA treatment of CFL.<br><br>METHODS: This multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 5-month study randomized subjects with moderate-to-severe CFL (maximum smile) to onabotulinumtoxinA (24 U; n = 222) or placebo (n = 223). Investigators and subjects assessed CFL severity (maximum smile and rest) using the 4-grade Facial Wrinkle Scale (FWS). Co-primary end points were investigator- and subject-assessed proportion of subjects achieving a CFL FWS grade of 0 (none) or 1 (mild) at maximum smile (Day 30). Additional efficacy end points, patient-reported outcomes, and safety/adverse events (AEs) were evaluated.<br><br>RESULTS: All primary and secondary end points were achieved; statistically significant differences favored onabotulinumtoxinA (p < .001, all comparisons vs placebo). Co-primary responder rates were 66.7% compared with 6.7% for investigator-assessed and 58.1% compared with 5.4% for subject-assessed response (onabotulinumtoxinA group and placebo, respectively; p < .001). A significantly greater proportion of the onabotulinumtoxinA group than placebo group achieved a 1 grade or greater improvement on the FWS (maximum smile and rest assessed by both the investigator and subject; all time points; p < .001). Most AEs were mild or moderate and did not result in discontinuations.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Treatment of moderate-to-severe CFL with onabotulinumtoxinA was effective and well tolerated.}, }
@article {pmid25346064, year = {2015}, author = {Peric, S and Mandic-Stojmenovic, G and Stefanova, E and Savic-Pavicevic, D and Pesovic, J and Ilic, V and Dobricic, V and Basta, I and Lavrnic, D and Rakocevic-Stojanovic, V}, title = {Frontostriatal dysexecutive syndrome: a core cognitive feature of myotonic dystrophy type 2.}, journal = {Journal of neurology}, volume = {262}, number = {1}, pages = {142-148}, pmid = {25346064}, issn = {1432-1459}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition Disorders/etiology/*physiopathology ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/physiopathology ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Myotonic Dystrophy/classification/complications/*physiopathology ; Neostriatum/physiopathology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to assess cognitive status in a large group of patients with myotonic dystrophy type 2 (DM2) compared to type 1 (DM1) subjects matched for gender and age, using a comprehensive battery of neuropsychological tests. Thirty-four genetically confirmed adult DM2 patients were recruited and matched for gender and age with 34 adult-onset DM1 subjects. All patients underwent detailed classic pen and pencil neuropsychological investigation and also computerized automated battery-CANTAB. More than half of DM2 patients had abnormal results on executive tests [Intra/Extradimensional Set Shift (IED), Stockings of Cambridge (SOC)] and verbal episodic memory (Ray Auditory Verbal Learning Test). Regarding DM1, abnormal results in more than 50 % of subjects were achieved in even ten tests, including visuospatial, language, executive, cognitive screening and visual memory tests. Direct comparison between patient groups showed that lower percentage of DM2 patients had abnormal results on following tests: Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination-Revised, Raven Standard Progressive Matrices, Block Design, copy and recall of Rey-Osterieth Complex Figure, number of categories and perseverative responses on Wisconsin Card Sorting Test and Boston Naming Test (p < 0.01), as well as Trail Making Test-B and Spatial Span (p < 0.05). Our results showed significant dysexecutive syndrome and certain impairment of episodic verbal memory in DM2 patients that are reflective of frontal (especially frontostriatal) and temporal lobe dysfunction. On the other hand, dysexecutive and visuospatial/visuoconstructional deficits predominate in DM1 which correspond to the frontal, parietal (and occipital) lobe dysfunction.}, }
@article {pmid25331277, year = {2015}, author = {Harrison, TL and Shipstead, Z and Engle, RW}, title = {Why is working memory capacity related to matrix reasoning tasks?.}, journal = {Memory &amp; cognition}, volume = {43}, number = {3}, pages = {389-396}, pmid = {25331277}, issn = {1532-5946}, mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Pattern Recognition, Visual/*physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Thinking/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {One of the reasons why working memory capacity is so widely researched is its substantial relationship with fluid intelligence. Although this relationship has been found in numerous studies, researchers have been unable to provide a conclusive answer as to why the two constructs are related. In a recent study, researchers examined which attributes of Raven's Progressive Matrices were most strongly linked with working memory capacity (Wiley, Jarosz, Cushen, &amp; Colflesh, Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory, and Cognition, 37, 256-263, 2011). In that study, Raven's problems that required a novel combination of rules to solve were more strongly correlated with working memory capacity than were problems that did not. In the present study, we wanted to conceptually replicate the Wiley et al. results while controlling for a few potential confounds. Thus, we experimentally manipulated whether a problem required a novel combination of rules and found that repeated-rule-combination problems were more strongly related to working memory capacity than were novel-rule-combination problems. The relationship to other measures of fluid intelligence did not change based on whether the problem required a novel rule combination.}, }
@article {pmid25327354, year = {2014}, author = {Cardoso, AA and Magalhães, LC and Rezende, MB}, title = {Motor skills in Brazilian children with developmental coordination disorder versus children with motor typical development.}, journal = {Occupational therapy international}, volume = {21}, number = {4}, pages = {176-185}, doi = {10.1002/oti.1376}, pmid = {25327354}, issn = {1557-0703}, mesh = {Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity ; Brazil ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Motor Skills/*physiology ; Motor Skills Disorders/*diagnosis/*physiopathology/therapy ; Occupational Therapy ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {The aims of the study were to compare the performance of children with probable developmental coordination disorder (DCD) and motor typically developing peers on items from the Assessment of Motor Coordination and Dexterity (AMCD), to determine whether age, gender and type of school had significant impact on the scores of the AMCD items, to estimate the frequency of DCD among Brazilian children ages 7 and 8 years and to investigate whether children with DCD exhibit more symptoms of attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder than children with motor typical development. A total of 793 children were screened by the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire - Brazilian version (DCDQ-Brazil); 90 were identified as at risk for DCD; 91 matched controls were selected from the remaining participants. Children in both groups were evaluated with the AMCD, the Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC-II) and Raven's coloured progressive matrices. Thirty-four children were classified as probable DCD, as defined by a combination of the DCDQ-Brazil and MABC-II scores (fifth percentile). The final frequency of DCD among children ages 7 and 8 years was 4.3%. There were significant differences between children with and without DCD on the majority of AMCD items, indicating its potential for identifying DCD in Brazilian children. The use of a motor test (MABC-II) that is not validated for the Brazilian children is a limitation of the present study. Further studies should investigate whether the AMCD is useful for identifying DCD in other age groups and in children from different regions of Brazil. The application of the AMCD may potentially contribute in improving occupational therapy practice in Brazil and in identifying children that could benefit from occupational therapy services.}, }
@article {pmid25321995, year = {2014}, author = {Song, J and Luo, LW and Luo, X and Zhou, H and Tu, X and Jia, L and Fang, Q and Lo, GQ}, title = {Loop coupled resonator optical waveguides.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {22}, number = {20}, pages = {24202-24216}, doi = {10.1364/OE.22.024202}, pmid = {25321995}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {We propose a novel coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW) structure that is made up of a waveguide loop. We theoretically investigate the forbidden band and conduction band conditions in an infinite periodic lattice. We also discuss the reflection- and transmission- spectra, group delay in finite periodic structures. Light has a larger group delay at the band edge in a periodic structure. The flat band pass filter and flat-top group delay can be realized in a non-periodic structure. Scattering matrix method is used to calculate the effects of waveguide loss on the optical characteristics of these structures. We also introduce a tunable coupling loop waveguide to compensate for the fabrication variations since the coupling coefficient of the directional coupler in the loop waveguide is a critical factor in determining the characteristics of a loop CROW. The loop CROW structure is suitable for a wide range of applications such as band pass filters, high Q microcavity, and optical buffers and so on.}, }
@article {pmid25321785, year = {2014}, author = {Novitski, R and Steinberg, BZ and Scheuer, J}, title = {Finite-difference time-domain study of modulated and disordered coupled resonator optical waveguide rotation sensors.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {22}, number = {19}, pages = {23153-23163}, doi = {10.1364/OE.22.023153}, pmid = {25321785}, issn = {1094-4087}, mesh = {*Computer Simulation ; *Computer-Aided Design ; Equipment Design ; *Light ; *Models, Theoretical ; *Optical Devices ; Optical Rotation ; Refractometry/*instrumentation ; Surface Plasmon Resonance/*instrumentation ; *Transducers ; }, abstract = {We present a full-wave finite difference time domain (FDTD) study of a coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW) rotation sensor consisting of 8 doubly degenerate ring resonators. First we demonstrate the formation of rotation-induced gap in the spectral pass-band of the CROW and show the existence of a dead-zone at low rotation rates which is mainly due to its finite size and partly because of the individual cavities losses. In order to overcome this deficiency, we modulate periodically the refractive indices of the resonators to effectively move CROW's operating point away from this dead-zone. Finally, we analyze the performance of a structurally disordered CROW to model the unavoidable fabrication errors and inaccuracies. We show that in some cases structural disorder can increase the sensitivity to rotation by breaking the degeneracy of the resonators, thus making such CROW even more sensitive to rotation than its unperturbed ideal counterpart.}, }
@article {pmid25315925, year = {2015}, author = {Little, JL and McDaniel, MA}, title = {Individual differences in category learning: memorization versus rule abstraction.}, journal = {Memory &amp; cognition}, volume = {43}, number = {2}, pages = {283-297}, pmid = {25315925}, issn = {1532-5946}, mesh = {Adult ; Concept Formation/*physiology ; Humans ; *Individuality ; Learning/*physiology ; Memory/physiology ; Transfer, Psychology/physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Although individual differences in category-learning tasks have been explored, the observed differences have tended to represent different instantiations of general processes (e.g., learners rely upon different cues to develop a rule) and their consequent representations. Additionally, studies have focused largely on participants' categorizations of transfer items to determine the representations that they formed. In the present studies, we used a convergent-measures approach to examine participants' categorizations of transfer items in addition to their self-reported learning orientations and response times on transfer items, and in doing so, we garnered evidence that qualitatively distinct approaches in explicit strategies for category learning (i.e., memorization vs. abstracting an articulable rule) and consequent representations might emerge in a single task. Participants categorized instances that followed a categorization rule (in Study 1, we used a relational rule; in Study 2, an additional task with a single-feature rule). Critically, for both tasks, some transfer items differed from trained instances on only one attribute (but otherwise were perceptually similar), rendering the item a member of the opposing category on the basis of the rule (i.e., termed ambiguous items). Some learners categorized ambiguous items on the basis of perceptual similarity, whereas others categorized them on the basis of an abstracted rule. Self-reported learning orientation (i.e., memorization vs. rule abstraction) predicted categorizations and response times on transfer items. Differences in learning orientations were not associated with performance on other cognitive measures (i.e., working memory capacity and Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices). This work suggests that individuals may have different predispositions toward memorization versus rule abstraction in a single categorization task.}, }
@article {pmid25315921, year = {2014}, author = {Motomura, H and Iguchi, H and Hatano, T and Kobayashi, R and Sakahara, D and Fujii, N and Mineo, M}, title = {Dynamic eye socket reconstruction after extensive resection of midfacial malignancies: preliminary results using temporalis transfer.}, journal = {Acta oto-laryngologica}, volume = {134}, number = {11}, pages = {1205-1210}, doi = {10.3109/00016489.2014.940555}, pmid = {25315921}, issn = {1651-2251}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/surgery ; Eyelid Neoplasms/surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Maxillary Sinus Neoplasms/surgery ; Middle Aged ; Orbit/*surgery ; *Plastic Surgery Procedures ; }, abstract = {The functional and esthetic results of reconstructive surgery after extended total maxillectomy or extended orbital exenteration greatly depend on the quality of the orbital reconstruction. We developed dynamic eye socket reconstruction using temporalis transfer to achieve good orbital reconstruction, and examined the usefulness of our technique. Five patients (three men and two women, aged 44-72 years) who underwent extensive resection of midfacial malignancies were treated with dynamic eye socket reconstruction using temporalis transfer. In most cases, eye socket reconstruction was performed approximately 1 year after the initial surgery, and temporalis transfer was used after maturation of the eye socket. The follow-up period ranged from 16 to 120 months (average 63.8 months). Movement of the upper and lower eyelids was achieved in all cases, and definite creases at the lateral canthus were observed in two patients. A good shape in the reconstructed medial and lateral canthal areas was maintained in all patients. Our reconstruction technique is extremely effective in creating natural creases ('crow's feet') at the lateral canthus during smiling, enabling movement of the upper and lower eyelids, and maintaining a sharp palpebral morphology.}, }
@article {pmid25314825, year = {2014}, author = {Leclerc, A and Chavatte, JM and Landau, I and Snounou, G and Petit, T}, title = {Morphologic and molecular study of hemoparasites in wild corvids and evidence of sequence identity with Plasmodium DNA detected in captive black-footed penguins (Spheniscus demersus).}, journal = {Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine : official publication of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians}, volume = {45}, number = {3}, pages = {577-588}, doi = {10.1638/2013-0257R.1}, pmid = {25314825}, issn = {1042-7260}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; *Animals, Zoo ; Crows/*blood ; DNA, Protozoan/*blood/genetics ; Phylogeny ; Plasmodium/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Spheniscidae/*blood ; }, abstract = {A morphologic and molecular epidemiologic investigation was conducted on a captive African black-footed penguin (Spheniscus demersus) colony with a history of Plasmodium infections at La Palmyre Zoo (France). Each penguin received 12.5 mg of pyrimethamine twice a week as a prophylaxis every year from April to November. Although Plasmodium parasites were not detected in blood smears and tissues collected from the penguins, various blood parasites were recorded in blood smears from wild Eurasian magpies (Pica pica) and carrion crows (Corvus corone) sampled at the same time in the study area. These parasites consisted of several Plasmodium spp. (P. lenoblei, P. dorsti, P bioccai, P. relictum, P. dherteae, P. beaucournui, P. maior, P. tranieri, and P. snounoui), Parahaemoproteus spp., Trypanosoma spp., and Leucocytozoon spp. On the other hand, nested polymerase chain reaction enabled detection of Plasmodium DNA in 28/44 (64%) penguins, 15/25 (60%) magpies, and 4/9 (44%) crows. Sequencing and phylogenetic analyses indicated that the parasite DNA amplified from the penguins, magpies, and crows were similar. Magpies and crows could therefore act as a reservoir for penguin Plasmodium infections, which may be more prevalent than previously thought. Morphologic characterization of the Plasmodium spp. detected in the penguins, as well as further biological and epidemiologic studies, are needed to fully understand the transmission of Plasmodium parasites to captive penguins.}, }
@article {pmid25308198, year = {2016}, author = {Nader, AM and Courchesne, V and Dawson, M and Soulières, I}, title = {Does WISC-IV Underestimate the Intelligence of Autistic Children?.}, journal = {Journal of autism and developmental disorders}, volume = {46}, number = {5}, pages = {1582-1589}, pmid = {25308198}, issn = {1573-3432}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Autism Spectrum Disorder/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests/standards ; Male ; Wechsler Scales/*standards ; }, abstract = {Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) is widely used to estimate autistic intelligence (Joseph in The neuropsychology of autism. Oxford University Press, Oxford, 2011; Goldstein et al. in Assessment of autism spectrum disorders. Guilford Press, New York, 2008; Mottron in J Autism Dev Disord 34(1):19-27, 2004). However, previous studies suggest that while WISC-III and Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM) provide similar estimates of non-autistic intelligence, autistic children perform significantly better on RPM (Dawson et al. in Psychol Sci 18(8):657-662, doi: 10.1111/j.1467-9280.2007.01954.x , 2007). The latest WISC version introduces substantial changes in subtests and index scores; thus, we asked whether WISC-IV still underestimates autistic intelligence. Twenty-five autistic and 22 typical children completed WISC-IV and RPM. Autistic children's RPM scores were significantly higher than their WISC-IV FSIQ, but there was no significant difference in typical children. Further, autistic children showed a distinctively uneven WISC-IV index profile, with a "peak" in the new Perceptual Reasoning Index. In spite of major changes, WISC-IV FSIQ continues to underestimate autistic intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid25307108, year = {2014}, author = {Uchino, E and Watanabe, S}, title = {Self-recognition in pigeons revisited.}, journal = {Journal of the experimental analysis of behavior}, volume = {102}, number = {3}, pages = {327-334}, doi = {10.1002/jeab.112}, pmid = {25307108}, issn = {1938-3711}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; *Columbidae ; Conditioning, Operant ; *Recognition, Psychology ; Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Recognition of a self-image in a mirror is investigated using the mark test during which a mark is placed onto a point on the body that is not directly visible, and the presence or absence of self-directed behaviors is evaluated for the mirror-observing subjects. Great apes, dolphins, possibly elephants, and magpies have all passed the mark test, that is, displayed self-directed behaviors, whereas monkeys, crows, and other animals have failed the test even though they were able to use a mirror to find a not-directly-visible object. Self-directed behavior and mirror use are prerequisites of a successful mark test, and the absence of these behaviors may lead to false negative results. Epstein, Lanza, and Skinner (1981) reported self-directed behavior of pigeons in front of a mirror after explicit training of self-directed pecking and of pecking an object with the aid of a mirror, but certain other researchers could not confirm the results. The aim of the present study was to conduct the mark test with two pigeons that had received extensive training of the prerequisite behaviors. Crucial points of the training were identical topography (pecking) and the same reinforcement (food) in the prerequisite behaviors as well as sufficient training of these behaviors. After training for the prerequisite behaviors, both pigeons spontaneously integrated the learned self-directed and mirror-use behavior and displayed self-directed behavior in a mark test. This indicates that pigeons display mirror self-recognition after training of suitable ontogenetic contingency.}, }
@article {pmid25304195, year = {2014}, author = {Mbiya Muadi, F and Mampunza, S and Symann, S and Habimana, L and D'Hoore, W and Malengreau, M and Hermans, D and Aujoulat, I and Charlier-Mikolajczak, D}, title = {[Attachment and child development in a residential institution in Kinshasa].}, journal = {Archives de pediatrie : organe officiel de la Societe francaise de pediatrie}, volume = {21}, number = {11}, pages = {1159-1166}, doi = {10.1016/j.arcped.2014.08.037}, pmid = {25304195}, issn = {1769-664X}, mesh = {Body Height ; Body Weight ; Child ; Child, Abandoned/*psychology ; Child, Institutionalized/*psychology ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Democratic Republic of the Congo ; *Developing Countries ; Developmental Disabilities/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Female ; Foster Home Care ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Orphanages ; Personality Inventory/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Projective Techniques/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychometrics/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Reactive Attachment Disorder/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Reference Values ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Attachment proves the child's need for a presence as well as physical and psychological protection. It contributes to the development of social and emotional skills. However, the relation between attachment, cognitive development, and physical development remains to be established.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of the quality of attachment on the cognitive and physical development of children placed in institutions for abandoned children in Kinshasa through a first study of this kind in the Democratic Republic of Congo.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighty-four participants, aged 4-7 years, 42 abandoned children placed in residential institutions and 42 children living in families. The evaluation focused on the quality of attachment, cognitive performance, and physical development of these children.<br><br>INSTRUMENTS: attachment story completion task (ASCT), Raven's colored progressive matrices (CPM) and growth vision. The Student t-test was used to compare the children's quality of attachment, cognitive performance, and physical development.<br><br>RESULTS: For the ASCT, secure attachment was more frequently found among children living in families (66.7%) than in institutions (33.3%). The CPM showed obtained a higher mean value (19.3) for children living in a family than for children living in institutions (13.3). Moreover, for children with secure attachment, the mean CPM value and height-for-age ratio were, respectively, 83.7% in family situations and 73.1% in institutions. The mean values for children with insecure attachment were lower than for those with secure attachment in families (80.7%) and institutions (70.9%). However, despite the quality of attachment, the mean values obtained in families were higher than those obtained in institutions.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These results suggest that the child's development, both cognitive and physical, depends on the quality of attachment. Life in the family gives better potentialities than life in an institution regardless of the quality of attachment.}, }
@article {pmid25285684, year = {2015}, author = {Kane, MAC}, title = {Nonsurgical periorbital and brow rejuvenation.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {135}, number = {1}, pages = {63-71}, doi = {10.1097/PRS.0000000000000831}, pmid = {25285684}, issn = {1529-4242}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins/administration &amp; dosage ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; *Eyebrows ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid/administration &amp; dosage ; *Rejuvenation ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: There is a high patient demand for periorbital rejuvenation because the periorbita are often the first facial areas to show visible signs of aging. In addition to rhytides and skin laxity, aging appearance of the periorbital area is caused by changes in tissue volume resulting from soft-tissue atrophy and bone loss in the aging face. These changes are among the easiest areas to correct using several noninvasive techniques. The author uses three different techniques in his practice.<br><br>METHODS: The author shares his experience using three different techniques for nonsurgical periorbital rejuvenation.<br><br>RESULTS: Patients develop unique crow's feet lines, and treatment with toxins should be adapted to each particular pattern. Low doses generally produce a more natural appearance than high doses. Using hyaluronic acid fillers, three tissue layers within the periorbita can be injected to produce maximally beneficial results and minimize the risk of adverse events. Filling tear troughs depends on whether they occurred early in life or are age-related. The key to avoiding complications is a careful patient analysis and a slow technique.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: One deformity should not be singled out when rejuvenating the periorbita. The best results are obtained when the entire periorbital area is treated at the same time.}, }
@article {pmid25284305, year = {2014}, author = {Vakhtin, AA and Ryman, SG and Flores, RA and Jung, RE}, title = {Functional brain networks contributing to the Parieto-Frontal Integration Theory of Intelligence.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {103}, number = {}, pages = {349-354}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroimage.2014.09.055}, pmid = {25284305}, issn = {1095-9572}, mesh = {Brain/*physiology ; *Brain Mapping ; Female ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Neural Pathways/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The refinement of localization of intelligence in the human brain is converging onto a distributed network that broadly conforms to the Parieto-Frontal Integration Theory (P-FIT). While this theory has received support in the neuroimaging literature, no functional magnetic resonance imaging study to date has conducted a whole-brain network-wise examination of the changes during engagement in tasks that are reliable measures of general intelligence (e.g., Raven's Progressive Matrices Test; RPM). Seventy-nine healthy subjects were scanned while solving RPM problems and during rest. Functional networks were extracted from the RPM and resting state data using Independent Component Analysis. Twenty-nine networks were identified, 26 of which were detected in both conditions. Fourteen networks were significantly correlated with the RPM task. The networks' spatial maps and functional connectivity measures at 3 frequency levels (low, medium, &amp; high) were compared between the RPM and rest conditions. The regions involved in the networks that were found to be task related were consistent with the P-FIT, localizing to the bilateral medial frontal and parietal regions, right superior frontal lobule, and the right cingulate gyrus. Functional connectivity in multiple component pairs was differentially affected across all frequency levels during the RPM task. Our findings demonstrate that functional brain networks are more stable than previously thought, and maintain their general features across resting state and engagement in a complex cognitive task. The described spatial and functional connectivity alterations that such components undergo during fluid reasoning provide a network-wise framework of the P-FIT that can be valuable for further, network based, neuroimaging inquiries regarding the neural underpinnings of intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid25283209, year = {2014}, author = {Bochkov, AV and Klompen, H}, title = {New Harpirhynchinae Dubinin (Acariformes: Harpirhynchidae)--intracutaneous and feather-base parasites of birds.}, journal = {Zootaxa}, volume = {3860}, number = {4}, pages = {301-324}, doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.3860.4.1}, pmid = {25283209}, issn = {1175-5334}, mesh = {Animal Distribution ; Animal Structures/anatomy &amp; histology/growth &amp; development ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Body Size ; Feathers/*parasitology ; Female ; Male ; Mite Infestations/parasitology/*veterinary ; Mites/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification/growth &amp; development ; Organ Size ; Passeriformes/parasitology ; }, abstract = {Seven new species of intracutaneous parasites of the subfamily Harpirhynchinae Dubinin (Acariformes: Cheyletoidea: Harpirhynchidae) are described: Anharpyrhynchus elizae sp. nov. from Cyanocitta cristata (type host), Cyanocitta stelleri (Passeriformes: Corvidae), and Colaptes auratus (Piciformes: Picidae) from the USA; Anharpyrhynchus apodus sp. nov. from Lichmera indistincta (type host) and Phylidonyris novaehollandiae (Passeriformes: Meliphagidae) from Australia; Anharpyrhynchus lukoschusi sp. nov. from Manorina flavigula (type host) and Certhionyx pectoralis (Passeriformes: Meliphagidae) from Australia; Fainharpirhynchus legatus sp. nov. from Legatus leucophaius (Passeriformes: Tyrannidae) from Trinidad and Tobago; Fainharpirhynchus mossi sp. nov. from Myiarchus crinitus (Passeriformes: Tyrannidae) from an unknown locality in North America; Perharpyrhynchus caprimulgus sp. nov. from Caprimulgus fossii (Caprimulgidae: Caprimulgiformes) from Mozambique; Perharpyrhynchus elseyornis sp. nov. from Elseyornis melanops (Charadriiformes: Charadriidae) from Australia. Keys to females of the genera Anharpyrhynchus, Fainharpirhynchus, and Perharpyrhynchus are provided and data on hosts and distributions of all known intracutaneous harpirhynchines are summarized. In addition, a new non-subcutaneous harpirhynchine is described: Trichorhynchiella myiarchus sp. nov. from feather bases of Myiarchus crinitus (Passeriformes: Tyrannidae) from an unknown locality in North America.}, }
@article {pmid25282956, year = {2014}, author = {Ishii, C and Ikenaka, Y and Nakayama, SM and Suzuki, Y and Watanuki, Y and Watanabe, Y and Yohannes, YB and Mizukawa, H and Ishizuka, M}, title = {Contamination status and accumulation characteristics of metals and a metalloid in birds on Teuri Island, Hokkaido, Japan.}, journal = {The Japanese journal of veterinary research}, volume = {62}, number = {3}, pages = {143-149}, pmid = {25282956}, issn = {0047-1917}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*metabolism ; Environmental Monitoring ; Environmental Pollutants/chemistry/*metabolism ; Japan ; Metalloids/chemistry/*metabolism ; Metals/chemistry/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Teuri Island, Hokkaido in Japan is an important place for seabirds breeding. We measured the concentrations of heavy metals (Hg, Cd, Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Pb) and a metalloid (As) in rhinoceros auklet (Cerorhinca monocerata) (n = 7), thick-billed murre (Uria lomvia) (n = 2), spectacled guillemot (Cepphus carbo) (n = 6), slaty-backed gull (Larus schistisagus) (n = 15), jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) (n = 3), Japanese anchovy (Engraulis japonica) (n = 6) and Atka mackerel (Pleurogrammus azonus) (n = 2). Spectacled guillemot had high As concentrations, with its source being their feeding habitat. Concentration of Hg in kidney of jungle crow was higher than other seabird species at Teuri.}, }
@article {pmid25272009, year = {2014}, author = {Soler, M and Pérez-Contreras, T and Ibáñez-Álamo, JD and Roncalli, G and Macías-Sánchez, E and de Neve, L}, title = {Great spotted cuckoo fledglings often receive feedings from other magpie adults than their foster parents: which magpies accept to feed foreign cuckoo fledglings?.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {10}, pages = {e107412}, pmid = {25272009}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; *Nesting Behavior ; }, abstract = {Natural selection penalizes individuals that provide costly parental care to non-relatives. However, feedings to brood-parasitic fledglings by individuals other than their foster parents, although anecdotic, have been commonly observed, also in the great spotted cuckoo (Clamator glandarius)--magpie (Pica pica) system, but this behaviour has never been studied in depth. In a first experiment, we here show that great spotted cuckoo fledglings that were translocated to a distant territory managed to survive. This implies that obtaining food from foreign magpies is a frequent and efficient strategy used by great spotted cuckoo fledglings. A second experiment, in which we presented a stuffed-cuckoo fledgling in magpie territories, showed that adult magpies caring for magpie fledglings responded aggressively in most of the trials and never tried to feed the stuffed cuckoo, whereas magpies that were caring for cuckoo fledglings reacted rarely with aggressive behavior and were sometimes disposed to feed the stuffed cuckoo. In a third experiment we observed feedings to post-fledgling cuckoos by marked adult magpies belonging to four different possibilities with respect to breeding status (i.e. composition of the brood: only cuckoos, only magpies, mixed, or failed breeding attempt). All non-parental feeding events to cuckoos were provided by magpies that were caring only for cuckoo fledglings. These results strongly support the conclusion that cuckoo fledglings that abandon their foster parents get fed by other adult magpies that are currently caring for other cuckoo fledglings. These findings are crucial to understand the co-evolutionary arms race between brood parasites and their hosts because they show that the presence of the host's own nestlings for comparison is likely a key clue to favour the evolution of fledgling discrimination and provide new insights on several relevant points such as learning mechanisms and multiparasitism.}, }
@article {pmid25260051, year = {2015}, author = {Lee, DH and Oh, IY and Koo, KT and Suk, JM and Jung, SW and Park, JO and Kim, BJ and Choi, YM}, title = {Improvement in skin wrinkles using a preparation containing human growth factors and hyaluronic acid serum.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology}, volume = {17}, number = {1}, pages = {20-23}, doi = {10.3109/14764172.2014.968577}, pmid = {25260051}, issn = {1476-4180}, mesh = {Administration, Cutaneous ; Adult ; Dermatologic Agents/*therapeutic use ; Drug Combinations ; Epidermal Growth Factor/therapeutic use ; Female ; Fibroblast Growth Factor 10/therapeutic use ; Fibroblast Growth Factor 2/therapeutic use ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid/*therapeutic use ; Insulin-Like Growth Factor I/therapeutic use ; Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/*therapeutic use ; Middle Aged ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Skin aging is accompanied by wrinkle formation. At some sites, such as the periorbital skin, this is a relatively early phenomenon.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the anti-wrinkle effect of a preparation containing human growth factor and hyaluronic acid serum on periorbital wrinkles (crow's feet).<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: In total, 23 Korean women (age range: 39-59 years), who were not pregnant, nursing, or undergoing any concurrent therapy, were enrolled in this study. All the patients completed an 8-week trial of twice-daily application of human growth factor and hyaluronic acid serum on the entire face. Efficacy was based on a global photodamage score, photographs, and image analysis using replicas and visiometer analysis every 4 weeks. The standard wrinkle and roughness parameters used in assessing skin by visiometer were calculated and statistically analyzed.<br><br>RESULTS: Periorbital wrinkles were significantly improved after treatment, with improvements noted both by physician's assessment and visiometer analysis.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Topical application of human growth factor and hyaluronic acid was beneficial in reducing periorbital wrinkles.}, }
@article {pmid25256256, year = {2014}, author = {Parvin, R and Kamal, AH and Haque, ME and Chowdhury, EH and Giasuddin, M and Islam, MR and Vahlenkamp, TW}, title = {Genetic characterization of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus from live migratory birds in Bangladesh.}, journal = {Virus genes}, volume = {49}, number = {3}, pages = {438-448}, pmid = {25256256}, issn = {1572-994X}, mesh = {Animals ; Bangladesh ; Birds ; Cluster Analysis ; *Genome, Viral ; Genotype ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/*classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Influenza in Birds/*virology ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Viral/*genetics ; *Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Sequence Homology ; Viral Proteins/genetics ; }, abstract = {Since the first outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) subtype H5N1 in Bangladesh in 2007, the virus has been circulating among domestic poultry causing severe economic losses. To investigate the presence of HPAIV H5N1 in migratory birds and their potential role in virus spread, 205 pools of fecal samples from live migratory birds were analyzed. Here, the first virus isolation and genome characterization of two HPAIV H5N1 isolates from migratory birds (A/migratory bird/Bangladesh/P18/2010 and A/migratory bird/Bangladesh/P29/2010)are described. Full-length amplification, sequencing, and a comprehensive phylogenetic analysis were performed for HA, NA, M, NS, NP, PA, PB1, and PB2 gene segments. The selected migratory bird isolates belong to clade 2.3.2.1 along with recent Bangladeshi isolates from chickens, ducks, and crows which grouped in the same cluster with contemporary South and South-East Asian isolates. The studied isolates were genetically similar to other H5N1 isolates from different species within the respective clade although some unique amino acid substitutions were observed among them. Migratory birds remain a real threat for spreading pathogenic avian influenza viruses across the continent and introduction of new strains into Bangladesh.}, }
@article {pmid25254897, year = {2015}, author = {Sheng, ZJ and Qin, CJ and Wei, CW and Miao, LC and Hua, ZG and Rui, C and Lin, L and Cai, WM}, title = {The effect of aerobic exercise and Macrothele raven venom on tumor-bearing mice.}, journal = {International journal of sports medicine}, volume = {36}, number = {2}, pages = {93-100}, doi = {10.1055/s-0034-1385877}, pmid = {25254897}, issn = {1439-3964}, mesh = {Animals ; Antineoplastic Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism ; Disease Models, Animal ; Disease Progression ; *Exercise Therapy ; Immunohistochemistry ; Infusions, Intravenous ; Liver Neoplasms, Experimental/metabolism/pathology/*therapy ; Male ; Mice ; Necrosis ; *Physical Conditioning, Animal ; Spider Venoms/*administration &amp; dosage ; Tumor Burden ; }, abstract = {Liver cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. Macrothele raven venom, a complicated mixture of neurotoxic peptides, proteins and low molecular weight material, has antitumor properties, but its mechanism of action is unknown. Moderate exercise has been shown to shrink tumors and cause a remarkable reduction in the tumor growth rate. In this study, we examined the antitumor effect of Macrothele raven venom in combination with exercise on tumor-bearing mice. Our results demonstrate that aerobic exercise in combination with venom administered at different doses was much more effective in a mouse H22 hepatoma model compared to separate administration of the 2 treatments. The underlying mechanism of this effect may be related to the expression of various tumor suppressor factors.}, }
@article {pmid25234835, year = {2014}, author = {Akita, H and Sasaki, R and Yokoyama, Y and Negishi, K and Matsunaga, K}, title = {The clinical experience and efficacy of bipolar radiofrequency with fractional photothermolysis for aged Asian skin.}, journal = {Experimental dermatology}, volume = {23 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {37-42}, doi = {10.1111/exd.12391}, pmid = {25234835}, issn = {1600-0625}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Asian People ; Cicatrix/radiotherapy ; Erythema/etiology/pathology ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Phototherapy ; Radio Waves/adverse effects ; *Radiofrequency Therapy ; Rejuvenation ; Skin Aging/pathology/*radiation effects ; }, abstract = {Bipolar radiofrequency (RF) technology is developed based on fractional thermolysis, and the literature concerning the efficacy of the rejuvenation and treatment of acne scars has been reported in Europe and the United States of America. Therefore, we examined bipolar RF treatment using fractional thermolysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the treatment of Asian photo-aging skin, particularly 'wrinkles' and 'sagging.' Ten Japanese women (mean age: 58.6, skin type III-IV) received three fractional bipolar RF treatments every 4-6 weeks. For the objective evaluation, we evaluated the improvement of the wrinkles on the forehead, lateral canthus (crow's feet) and lower eyelid, and the sagging of the nasolabial fold using digital photographs captured using Visia(™) . For the subjective evaluation, the participants were asked to describe the improvements observed in the wrinkles on the forehead, lateral canthus (crow's feet) and lower eyelid, and sagging nasolabial fold and to evaluate the level pain experienced using a 10-point VAS score. The objective evaluation in each category showed significant improvements in the wrinkles on the lateral canthus (crow's feet) and lower eyelid. As for the nasolabial fold, 60% of the subjects showed improvements, scoring from good to excellent (51-100% improvement), although there was a little improvement of the wrinkle on the forehead. Similar improvements were observed in the subjective evaluation. During each treatment, oedema and erythema were observed in all participants, but the oedema disappeared the following day in all cases. However, mild erythema persisted for an average of 3.1 days. Micro debris disappeared after an average of 5.2 days. The participants were satisfied, as we allowed them to apply make-up the next day. There were no other severe adverse reactions observed during the treatment. The 10-point VAS score was 3.8, and no participants dropped out due to discomfort. Little improvement was observed in the forehead wrinkles in either the objective or the subjective evaluation. The results obtained in this study indicate that fractional bipolar RF is an effective and safe treatment for the 'wrinkling' and 'sagging' of Asian photo-aging skin.}, }
@article {pmid25226396, year = {2014}, author = {Silverman, JG and Raj, A}, title = {Intimate partner violence and reproductive coercion: global barriers to women's reproductive control.}, journal = {PLoS medicine}, volume = {11}, number = {9}, pages = {e1001723}, pmid = {25226396}, issn = {1549-1676}, mesh = {*Coercion ; Female ; Global Health/*ethnology/trends ; Humans ; Reproductive Behavior/*ethnology ; Sexual Behavior/ethnology ; Spouse Abuse/*ethnology/*prevention &amp; control ; }, abstract = {Jay Silverman and Anita Raj discuss the policies and interventions required to address the range of poor reproductive outcomes for women and adolescents, including loss of reproductive control, associated with intimate partner violence. Please see later in the article for the Editors' Summary}, }
@article {pmid25225036, year = {2015}, author = {Thom, JM and Clayton, NS}, title = {Translational research into intertemporal choice: the Western scrub-jay as an animal model for future-thinking.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {112}, number = {}, pages = {43-48}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2014.09.006}, pmid = {25225036}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; *Choice Behavior ; Decision Making ; Forecasting ; Humans ; *Models, Animal ; *Passeriformes ; *Thinking ; Time Factors ; *Translational Research, Biomedical ; }, abstract = {Decisions often involve outcomes that will not materialise until later, and choices between immediate gratification and future consequences are thought to be important for human health and welfare. Combined human and animal research has identified impulsive intertemporal choice as an important factor in drug-taking and pathological gambling. In this paper, we give an overview of recent research into intertemporal choice in non-human animals, and argue that this work could offer insight into human behaviour through the development of animal models. As an example, we discuss the role of future-thinking in intertemporal choice, and review the case for the Western scrub-jay (Aphelocoma californica) as an animal model of such prospective cognition. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Tribute to Tom Zentall.}, }
@article {pmid25216199, year = {2015}, author = {Steinsapir, KD and Rootman, D and Wulc, A and Hwang, C}, title = {Cosmetic Microdroplet Botulinum Toxin A Forehead Lift: A New Treatment Paradigm.}, journal = {Ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {31}, number = {4}, pages = {263-268}, doi = {10.1097/IOP.0000000000000282}, pmid = {25216199}, issn = {1537-2677}, mesh = {Acetylcholine Release Inhibitors/*administration &amp; dosage ; Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Cosmetic Techniques ; *Eyebrows ; Female ; Forehead ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Retrospective Studies ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To investigate the safety and efficacy of a microdroplet, cosmetic, periocular botulinum toxin A method that extensively treats the eyebrow depressors but leaves the brow elevators untreated.<br><br>METHODS: This is a 5-year retrospective, consecutive, nonrandomized series of botulinum toxin treatments. The study was reviewed by an institutional review board and complied with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Patients were treated with 33 U onabotulinum toxin (BOTOX, Allergan, Inc., Irvine, CA, U.S.A.) injected in microdroplets of 10 to 20 &#x3bc;l. Sixty to 100 injections of microdroplets were needed to complete a treatment pattern concentrated at the brow, glabella, and crows feet area. The forehead was not treated. Patients who returned between 10 and 45 days were studied with image analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: There were 563 consecutive microdroplet treatments on 227 unique patients (female, n = 175, mean age 46 &#xb1; 4 years; male, n = 52, mean age 44 &#xb1; 8 years). The incidence of ptosis was 0.2% and transient. Forty-nine patients returned for a follow-up visit between 10 and 45 days and were included for image analysis to compare the before and after results of treatment. The average brow height was 24.6 mm before and 25 mm after treatment (p = 0.02). Photonumeric scales for forehead lines, brow ptosis, and brow furrow all showed statistically significant improvements (p < 0.0001).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The microdroplet brow lift method safely concentrates cosmetic botulinum toxin treatment along the eyebrow, crows feet, and glabellar area, resulting in a brow lift effect that reduces forehead lines, elevates the eyebrow, and reduces the furrow along the brow. This new treatment paradigm results in an aesthetic improvement to the face and periocular area without the forehead paralysis associated with conventional treatment.}, }
@article {pmid25210590, year = {2014}, author = {Rahman, NA and Fadzly, N and Dzakwan, NM and Zulkifli, NH}, title = {The Numerical Competency of Two Bird Species (Corvus splendens and Acridotheres tristis).}, journal = {Tropical life sciences research}, volume = {25}, number = {1}, pages = {95-103}, pmid = {25210590}, issn = {1985-3718}, abstract = {We conducted a series of experiments to test the numerical competency of two species of birds, Corvus splendens (House Crow) and Acridotheres tristis (Common Myna). Both species were allowed to choose from seven different groups of mealworms with varying proportions. We considered the birds to have made a correct choice when it selected the food group with the highest number of mealworms. Our overall results indicated that the Common Myna is able to count numbers (161 successful choices out of 247 trials) better than House Crows (133 successful choices out of 241 trials). We suspect that House Crows do not rely on a numerical sense when selecting food. Although House Crows mostly chose the cup with more mealworms (from seven food item proportions), only one proportion was chosen at rate above random chance. The Common Myna, however, were slow performers at the beginning but became increasingly more capable of numerical sense during the remainder of the experiment (four out of seven food proportion groups were chosen at a rate above random chance).}, }
@article {pmid25208730, year = {2014}, author = {Gasca-Salas, C and Estanga, A and Clavero, P and Aguilar-Palacio, I and González-Redondo, R and Obeso, JA and Rodríguez-Oroz, MC}, title = {Longitudinal assessment of the pattern of cognitive decline in non-demented patients with advanced Parkinson's disease.}, journal = {Journal of Parkinson's disease}, volume = {4}, number = {4}, pages = {677-686}, doi = {10.3233/JPD-140398}, pmid = {25208730}, issn = {1877-718X}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Analysis of Variance ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/*etiology ; Disease Progression ; Female ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/*complications ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are frequent in Parkinson's disease (PD). Deficits in some cognitive tests are considered risk factors for dementia in PD. However, how cognitive deficits progress in aged and long-lasting non-demented PD is not known.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To study the rate and pattern of progression of cognitive deficits in aged and long-lasting non-demented PD.<br><br>METHODS: Forty-nine non-demented patients (23 cognitively normal (PD-CN) and 26 with MCI (PD-MCI)) were studied over 31 months using individual tests and z-scores covering five cognitive domains. All patients were at least 60 year old and have had PD &#x2265; 10 years.<br><br>RESULTS: Attention, executive function and memory worsened in 5 PD-CN patients who progressed to MCI (21.7% of the sample) and in 1 patient who became demented (4.3% of the sample). Eleven PD-MCI patients who developed dementia (42.3% of the sample) showed aggravation of visuospatial, executive and attention domains. Multidomain-MCI and poor execution of Stroop-Words, copy of intersecting pentagons and Raven Progressive Matrices tests were associated with conversion to dementia.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This pilot study shows that in long-lasting PD 21.7% of PD-CN patients progress to MCI and 42.3% of PD-MCI progress to dementia over a 31 months observation period. The transition from cognitively normal to MCI is featured by attention, executive and memory dysfunction and the evolution from MCI to dementia is marked by the appearance of visuospatial deficits and worsening of attention and executive function. These data are compatible with the concept that cognitive decline in PD follows a distinct dysfunction pattern with progressive anterior to posterior cortical involvement.}, }
@article {pmid25207993, year = {2015}, author = {Clayton, NS}, title = {Ways of thinking: from crows to children and back again.}, journal = {Quarterly journal of experimental psychology (2006)}, volume = {68}, number = {2}, pages = {209-241}, doi = {10.1080/17470218.2014.943673}, pmid = {25207993}, issn = {1747-0226}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Child ; *Child Development ; *Cognition ; Crows ; Humans ; Problem Solving ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Social Behavior ; Theory of Mind/*physiology ; *Thinking ; }, abstract = {This article reviews some of the recent work on the remarkable cognitive capacities of food-caching corvids. The focus will be on their ability to think about other minds and other times, and tool-using tests of physical problem solving. Research on developmental cognition suggests that young children do not pass similar tests until they are at least four years of age in the case of the social cognition experiments, and eight years of age in the case of the tasks that tap into physical cognition. This developmental trajectory seems surprising. Intuitively, one might have thought that the social and planning tasks required more complex forms of cognitive process, namely Mental Time Travel and Theory of Mind. Perhaps the fact that children pass these tasks earlier than the physical problem-solving tasks is a reflection of cultural influences. Future research will hope to identify these cognitive milestones by starting to develop tasks that might go some way towards understanding the mechanisms underlying these abilities in both children and corvids, to explore similarities and differences in their ways of thinking.}, }
@article {pmid25199001, year = {2014}, author = {Donald, PR}, title = {The North American contribution to our knowledge of childhood tuberculosis and its epidemiology.}, journal = {The international journal of tuberculosis and lung disease : the official journal of the International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease}, volume = {18}, number = {8}, pages = {890-898}, doi = {10.5588/ijtld.13.0915}, pmid = {25199001}, issn = {1815-7920}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Age Factors ; Antitubercular Agents/*therapeutic use ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Incidence ; North America ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Sputum/*microbiology ; Tuberculosis/*epidemiology/history/physiopathology ; }, abstract = {Although it comprises a substantial proportion of the tuberculosis (TB) burden, particularly in developing communities, childhood TB was until recently largely neglected. North American researchers and clinicians have made substantial contributions to our knowledge of TB in children; their findings, gathered mostly before the availability of chemotherapy, remain an irreplaceable source of learning for modern practice, decision making and TB control, and pose questions regarding TB pathophysiology that remain unanswered. By the time chemotherapy was introduced, it was known that very young children were extremely susceptible to serious disease and that adolescence was a period when there was a transition in the underlying natural response to infection to one characterised by necrotising lung lesions associated with sputum microscopy smear positivity. Researchers such as Miriam Brailey, Edith Lincoln and Jay Arthur Myers carried out studies, over three decades in some cases, documenting likely consequences of tuberculous infection in childhood at different ages and under different circumstances. Infected children aged <3 years remain candidates for the urgent institution of chemoprophylaxis and the search for close household contacts. In high-income communities with low TB incidence, a tuberculin-positive child remains an important index for the presence of infectious adults. Wade Hampton Frost drew attention to the age-related epidemiology of TB, identifying it as a most important feature of our understanding of TB pathophysiology; more than 70 years after his death, we still do not understand why there is a change in the nature of TB during adolescence that makes expectoration of infectious sputum possible.}, }
@article {pmid25185528, year = {2015}, author = {Mrozek-Budzyn, D and Majewska, R and Kiełtyka, A}, title = {Early exposure to thimerosal-containing vaccines and children's cognitive development. A 9-year prospective birth cohort study in Poland.}, journal = {European journal of pediatrics}, volume = {174}, number = {3}, pages = {383-391}, pmid = {25185528}, issn = {1432-1076}, support = {R01 ES010165/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 ES015282/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; R01ES015282/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; R01ES010165/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Child ; Child Development/*drug effects ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis Vaccine/*chemistry ; Female ; Hepatitis B Vaccines/*chemistry ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Poland ; Preservatives, Pharmaceutical/adverse effects ; Prospective Studies ; Thimerosal/*adverse effects ; Vaccines/*chemistry ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: The controversial topic of the early exposure to mercury is regarding ethylmercury, which is present in the thimerosal-containing vaccines (TCVs). The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between the early exposure to TCVs and cognitive development in children during the first 9 years of life. The cohort included 318 children vaccinated in an early period (neonatal and up to 6 months) against hepatitis B and diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP) using formulation with or without thimerosal. The children's development was assessed using the Fagan test (6th month of life), the Bayley Scales of Infant Development (BSID)-II (12th-36th month), the Raven test (5th, 8th year), and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-R) (6th, 7th, 9th year). Results were determined by multivariable linear and logistic regression, adjusted to potential confounders. Children exposed and not exposed to TCVs in the neonatal period had similar outcomes of cognitive-developmental tests; only the results of BSID-II at the 36th month and WISC-R at the 9th year were significantly higher for those exposed to TCVs. Developmental test results in children exposed to TCVs up to the 6th month of life also did not depend on thimerosal dose.<br><br>CONCLUSION: TCV administration in early infancy did not affect children's cognitive development.}, }
@article {pmid26855616, year = {2014}, author = {Bate, C and Boduszek, D and Dhingra, K and Bale, C}, title = {Psychopathy, intelligence and emotional responding in a non-forensic sample: an experimental investigation.}, journal = {The journal of forensic psychiatry &amp; psychology}, volume = {25}, number = {5}, pages = {600-612}, pmid = {26855616}, issn = {1478-9949}, abstract = {This study examined the relationships between psychopathy (primary and secondary), intelligence and emotional responding in a sample of 50 university students, using a task measuring autonomic responses to 40 pictorial stimuli (20 neutral and 20 emotionally provoking). Results indicated no significant direct relationship between primary or secondary psychopathy and emotional response, or primary or secondary psychopathy and intelligence. However, a significant moderating effect of intelligence on the association between both psychopathy factors and emotional response was observed, indicating those scoring higher on psychopathy but with lower intelligence portray the expected emotional responses to the affective stimuli (primary: β = -.56, p < .05; secondary: β = .80, p < .001). These findings indicate abnormal reactivity to emotional stimuli in lower intelligence, higher psychopathic individuals, and suggest differing roles for the two facets of psychopathy in affective responsiveness deviations.}, }
@article {pmid25180048, year = {2014}, author = {Bodner, KE and Williams, DL and Engelhardt, CR and Minshew, NJ}, title = {A Comparison of Measures for Assessing the Level and Nature of Intelligence in Verbal Children and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder.}, journal = {Research in autism spectrum disorders}, volume = {8}, number = {11}, pages = {1434-1442}, pmid = {25180048}, issn = {1750-9467}, support = {K23 DC006691/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; P01 HD035469/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 NS033355/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Previous work has suggested that the Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM) are better suited for capturing the nature of intelligence for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) than the Wechsler scales. The RPM measures 'fluid intelligence', an area for which it has been argued that persons with ASD have a relative strength. Given that measures of intelligence are used for establishing clinical diagnoses, for making educational decisions, and for group-matching in research studies, continued examination of this contention is warranted. In the current study, verbal children with ASD performed moderately better on the RPM than on the Wechsler scales; children without ASD received higher percentile scores on the Wechsler than on the RPM. Adults with and without ASD received higher percentile scores on the Wechsler than the RPM. Results suggest that the RPM and Wechsler scales measure different aspects of cognitive abilities in verbal individuals with ASD. For the verbal children and adults with ASD in the current study, the RPM and Wechsler scales have unique contributions that must be considered in context when establishing a baseline of cognitive function. The results of this investigation highlight the importance of thoughtfully selecting appropriate measures of intelligence consistent with clinical, educational, and research purposes, especially for verbal children and adults with ASD.}, }
@article {pmid25175692, year = {2015}, author = {Habets, P and Jeandarme, I and Uzieblo, K and Oei, K and Bogaerts, S}, title = {Intelligence is in the eye of the beholder: investigating repeated IQ measurements in forensic psychiatry.}, journal = {Journal of applied research in intellectual disabilities : JARID}, volume = {28}, number = {3}, pages = {182-192}, doi = {10.1111/jar.12120}, pmid = {25175692}, issn = {1468-3148}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; *Forensic Psychiatry ; Hospitalization ; Hospitals, Psychiatric ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/diagnosis/*psychology ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests/standards ; Male ; Netherlands ; Regression Analysis ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: A stable assessment of cognition is of paramount importance for forensic psychiatric patients (FPP). The purpose of this study was to compare repeated measures of IQ scores in FPPs with and without intellectual disability.<br><br>METHODS: Repeated measurements of IQ scores in FPPs (n = 176) were collected. Differences between tests were computed, and each IQ score was categorized. Additionally, t-tests and regression analyses were performed.<br><br>RESULTS: Differences of 10 points or more were found in 66% of the cases comparing WAIS-III with RAVEN scores. Fisher's exact test revealed differences between two WAIS-III scores and the WAIS categories. The WAIS-III did not predict other IQs (WAIS or RAVEN) in participants with intellectual disability.<br><br>DISCUSSION: This study showed that stability or interchangeability of scores is lacking, especially in individuals with intellectual disability. Caution in interpreting IQ scores is therefore recommended, and the use of the unitary concept of IQ should be discouraged.}, }
@article {pmid25161339, year = {2014}, author = {Yoshizawa, K and Yasuda, N and Fukuda, M and Yukimoto, Y and Ogino, M and Hata, W and Ishizaka, I and Higashikawa, M}, title = {Syntactic comprehension in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.}, journal = {Behavioural neurology}, volume = {2014}, number = {}, pages = {230578}, pmid = {25161339}, issn = {1875-8584}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/complications/*psychology ; Auditory Perceptual Disorders/complications/*psychology ; Dementia/complications/psychology ; *Executive Function ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; }, abstract = {Recent neuropsychological studies of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) have demonstrated that some patients have aphasic symptoms, including impaired syntactic comprehension. However, it is not known if syntactic comprehension disorder is related to executive and visuospatial dysfunction. In this study, we evaluated syntactic comprehension using the Syntax Test for Aphasia (STA) auditory comprehension task, frontal executive function using the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), visuospatial function using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM), and dementia using the Hasegawa Dementia Scale-Revised (HDS-R) in 25 patients with ALS. Of the 25 patients, 18 (72%) had syntactic comprehension disorder (STA score < IV), nine (36%) had frontal executive dysfunction (FAB score < 14), six (24%) had visuospatial dysfunction (RCPM score < 24), and none had dementia (HDS-R score < 20). Nine of the 18 patients with syntactic comprehension disorder (50%) passed the FAB and RCPM. Although sample size was small, these patients had a low STA score but normal FAB and RCPM score. All patients with bulbar onset ALS had syntactic comprehension disorder. These results indicate that it might be necessary to assess syntactic comprehension in patients with bulbar onset ALS. The implications of these findings are discussed in relation to the pathological continuum of ALS.}, }
@article {pmid25153849, year = {2014}, author = {Bakhiet, SF and Lynn, R}, title = {A study of intelligence in Jordan .}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {115}, number = {2}, pages = {515-516}, doi = {10.2466/04.PR0.115c17z1}, pmid = {25153849}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Jordan ; Male ; }, abstract = {The Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices test was standardized in Jordan in 2004 on a sample of 1,015 school students ages 12 to 17 yr. The sample obtained a British IQ of 82.6.}, }
@article {pmid25151937, year = {2014}, author = {Moll, FW and Nieder, A}, title = {The long and the short of it: rule-based relative length discrimination in carrion crows, Corvus corone.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {107}, number = {}, pages = {142-149}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2014.08.009}, pmid = {25151937}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Discrimination, Psychological/*physiology ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Male ; Space Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Birds and other nonhuman animals can choose the larger of two discrete or continuous quantities. However, whether birds possess the conceptual grasp and cognitive control to flexibly switch between relative more-or-less-than judgments remains elusive. We therefore tested carrion crows in a rule-based line-length discrimination task to flexibly select lines presented on a touchscreen according to their relative length. In the first experiment, the crows needed to discriminate a shorter from a longer line, and vice versa. In the second experiment, the crows were required to choose a medium long line among three lines of different length (intermediate-size task). The crows switched effortlessly between "longer than/shorter than" rules, showing no signs of trial history affecting switching performance. They reliably chose the relatively longer and shorter line length, thus demonstrating a concept of greater than/less than with a continuous magnitude. However, both crows failed to discriminate a line of 'medium' length embedded in longer and shorter lines. These results indicate that relational discrimination exhibits different cognitive demands. While a greater than/less than concept requires only one relational comparison (with the respectively greater or smaller magnitude), the discrimination of a 'medium' magnitude demands to relate two or more comparisons, which might overburden crows and maybe animals in general.}, }
@article {pmid25150963, year = {2015}, author = {Tornick, JK and Callahan, ES and Gibson, BM}, title = {An investigation of quantity discrimination in Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana).}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {129}, number = {1}, pages = {17-25}, doi = {10.1037/a0037863}, pmid = {25150963}, issn = {1939-2087}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/physiology ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Discrimination, Psychological/*physiology ; *Mathematical Concepts ; Passeriformes ; }, abstract = {We examined quantity discrimination in the Clark's nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana), a corvid bird with a strong dependence upon caching and recovering nuts. We presented 2 sets of nuts simultaneously, in 21 different conditions, to see if the nutcrackers could choose the larger of the 2 quantities. The nutcrackers displayed a strong ability to discriminate quantities of nuts. Like other animals tested previously, the nutcrackers' performance decreased as the ratio of the 2 quantities approached 1. Interestingly, at constant distances, the nutcrackers did not have more difficulty with contrasts containing larger quantities. Thus, nutcrackers have a fine sensitivity for discriminating between 2 quantities. We review the relevant literature and explore the possibility that nutcrackers, like some other birds, may have developed a keen ability to discriminate quantities. This ability may have developed as an adaptive specialization to cope with their scatter-hoarding ecology, though the evidence for such a conclusion is mixed.}, }
@article {pmid25149562, year = {2014}, author = {Bratus, AS and Novozhilov, AS and Semenov, YS}, title = {Linear algebra of the permutation invariant Crow-Kimura model of prebiotic evolution.}, journal = {Mathematical biosciences}, volume = {256}, number = {}, pages = {42-57}, doi = {10.1016/j.mbs.2014.08.006}, pmid = {25149562}, issn = {1879-3134}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; *Models, Theoretical ; }, abstract = {A particular case of the famous quasispecies model - the Crow-Kimura model with a permutation invariant fitness landscape - is investigated. Using the fact that the mutation matrix in the case of a permutation invariant fitness landscape has a special tridiagonal form, a change of the basis is suggested such that in the new coordinates a number of analytical results can be obtained. In particular, using the eigenvectors of the mutation matrix as the new basis, we show that the quasispecies distribution approaches a binomial one and give simple estimates for the speed of convergence. Another consequence of the suggested approach is a parametric solution to the system of equations determining the quasispecies. Using this parametric solution we show that our approach leads to exact asymptotic results in some cases, which are not covered by the existing methods. In particular, we are able to present not only the limit behavior of the leading eigenvalue (mean population fitness), but also the exact formulas for the limit quasispecies eigenvector for special cases. For instance, this eigenvector has a geometric distribution in the case of the classical single peaked fitness landscape. On the biological side, we propose a mathematical definition, based on the closeness of the quasispecies to the binomial distribution, which can be used as an operational definition of the notorious error threshold. Using this definition, we suggest two approximate formulas to estimate the critical mutation rate after which the quasispecies delocalization occurs.}, }
@article {pmid25149280, year = {2014}, author = {Giammarino, M and Quatto, P and Squadrone, S and Abete, MC}, title = {The hooded crow (Corvus cornix) as an environmental bioindicator species of heavy metal contamination.}, journal = {Bulletin of environmental contamination and toxicology}, volume = {93}, number = {4}, pages = {410-416}, doi = {10.1007/s00128-014-1362-y}, pmid = {25149280}, issn = {1432-0800}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Cadmium/analysis/*pharmacokinetics ; Crows/*metabolism ; Environmental Monitoring/*methods/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Environmental Pollutants/analysis/*pharmacokinetics ; Female ; Fertilizers/analysis ; Italy ; Lead/analysis/*pharmacokinetics ; Male ; Spectrophotometry, Atomic ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; }, abstract = {This study aims to examine the possible presence of lead and cadmium in the liver and kidneys of hooded crows (Corvus cornix). Liver and kidneys of hooded crow carcasses were collected in Province of Cuneo (Piedmont, Italy) in order to detect lead and cadmium content. Significant differences were found in lead and cadmium levels between areas of intensive cultivation versus areas where meadows are prevalent. Moreover, age greatly influenced the burden of heavy metals, while sex did not seem to affect the level of contamination. The source of contamination may be phosphate fertilizers used for intensive cultivation in the study area.}, }
@article {pmid25148039, year = {2014}, author = {Overeem, KR and Gabriel, PO and Zirpoli, JA and Black, JM}, title = {Steller sex: infidelity and sexual selection in a social Corvid (Cyanocitta stelleri).}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {8}, pages = {e105257}, pmid = {25148039}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; *Mating Preference, Animal ; Microsatellite Repeats ; Reproduction/genetics ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {Genetic analysis of avian mating systems has revealed that more than 70% of monogamous species show incidence of offspring parentage that does not match the social partner. Extra-pair parentage (EPP) has been linked to a variety of factors, including size and symmetry of ornamental traits, coloration, resource availability, and local conspecific density. We examined how ornamental plumage traits of individual Steller's jays (Cyanocitta stelleri) and territory characteristics influence genetic fidelity of socially monogamous pairs. We used seven highly polymorphic microsatellite markers to assign paternity to 79 offspring, and identified 12 (15.2%) as extra-pair young (EPY). Steller's jays with extra-pair young had significantly lower values of feather brightness and hue, indicating more ultraviolet-blue shifted coloration, and nested in closer proximity to the forest edge than Steller's jays with no detected EPY. Body size, crest height, asymmetry of ornamental crest stripes, as well as vegetative composition of territories and their proximity to supplemental feeders appeared to have little relationship to EPP. These results indicate that extra-pair parentage plays a role in the evolution of secondary sexual characteristics in both sexes, and suggest local density and availability of resources may influence Steller's jay mating dynamics.}, }
@article {pmid25147048, year = {2014}, author = {Montaz, J and Jacquot, M and Coeurdassier, M}, title = {Scavenging of rodent carcasses following simulated mortality due to field applications of anticoagulant rodenticide.}, journal = {Ecotoxicology (London, England)}, volume = {23}, number = {9}, pages = {1671-1680}, pmid = {25147048}, issn = {1573-3017}, mesh = {4-Hydroxycoumarins/analysis ; Animals ; Arvicolinae ; *Environmental Monitoring ; *Feeding Behavior ; *Food Chain ; France ; *Raptors ; Rodenticides/*analysis ; }, abstract = {Worldwide, agricultural uses of anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs) cause poisonings of non-target wildlife as observed in France where bromadiolone is used to control water vole outbreaks. Following bromadiolone field application, a part of the vole population may die aboveground of the treated plots and thus, can represent an important risk of secondary poisoning for scavengers. In this study, water voles were trapped in a non-treated area and their carcasses were placed aboveground in plots located in an area where a vole outbreak occurred. Then, the environmental persistence, the diurnal and nocturnal scavenging rates of water vole carcasses were assessed in autumn 2011 and in spring 2012. The diurnal scavenger species were also identified. The environmental persistence of the carcasses to reach at least a scavenging rate of 87.5 % was 0.5-1.5 day. The average rates of diurnal and nocturnal scavenging ranged from 67 to 100 % and 5 to 100 %, respectively. They depended on the composition of the scavenger community present near the monitored plots; diurnal scavenging rates being higher with corvids than with raptors. In autumn, the red kite and the common buzzard were the main scavengers in one of the plots, what suggests a high risk of poisoning for these raptors during post-nuptial migration. So, the collection of vole carcasses after treatments and the limitations of bromadiolone applications when high densities of predators/scavengers are observed could be implemented to mitigate the risks of secondary poisoning.}, }
@article {pmid25130753, year = {2014}, author = {Clary, D and Cheys, A and Kelly, DM}, title = {Pattern of visuospatial lateralization in two corvid species, black-billed magpies and Clark's nutcrackers.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {107}, number = {}, pages = {94-98}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2014.07.020}, pmid = {25130753}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Attention/*physiology ; Female ; Functional Laterality/*physiology ; Male ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Space Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Cerebral lateralization is widespread amongst vertebrate species suggesting advantages are gained by having one of the brain's hemispheres exert dominant control over certain cognitive functions. A recently devised task for assessing lateralization of visuospatial attention by birds (Diekamp et al., 2005) has allowed researchers to suggest the corpus callosum may not be necessary for the emergence of such asymmetries. More recently, this task has been adopted to examine the embryonic development of lateralization in birds, research which may provide important insights as to the underlying genetic mechanisms (Chiandetti, 2011; Chiandetti et al., 2013) of vertebrate cerebral lateralization. However, to date only chicks and pigeons have been used in this paradigm. Thus, it is unclear whether other avian species will also show lateralization of visuospatial attention during this task. Here, we examined the pattern of visuospatial lateralization in two corvid species: social black-billed magpies (Pica hudsonia) and non-social Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana). We find that neither the magpies nor the nutcrackers show evidence for population level lateralization or predictable individual level lateralization, as only a subset of individuals of each species showed a significant individual bias, which were rarely stable over repeated testing.}, }
@article {pmid25123853, year = {2015}, author = {Shephard, TV and Lea, SE and Hempel de Ibarra, N}, title = {'The thieving magpie'? No evidence for attraction to shiny objects.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {18}, number = {1}, pages = {393-397}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-014-0794-4}, pmid = {25123853}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Exploratory Behavior ; *Folklore ; Nesting Behavior ; Object Attachment ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {It is widely accepted in European culture that magpies (Pica pica) are unconditionally attracted to shiny objects and routinely steal small trinkets such as jewellery, almost as a compulsion. Despite the long history of this folklore, published accounts of magpies collecting shiny objects are rare and empirical evidence for the behaviour is lacking. The latter is surprising considering that an attraction to bright objects is well documented in some bird species. The present study aims to clarify whether magpies show greater attraction to shiny objects than non-shiny objects when presented at the same time. We did not find evidence of an unconditional attraction to shiny objects in either captive or free-living birds. Instead, all objects elicited responses indicating neophobia in free-living birds. We suggest that humans notice when magpies occasionally pick up shiny objects because they believe the birds find them attractive, while it goes unnoticed when magpies interact with less eye-catching items. The folklore may therefore result from observation bias and cultural inflation of orally transmitted episodic events.}, }
@article {pmid25119243, year = {2015}, author = {Živković, V and Damjanjuk, I and Nikolić, S}, title = {Is the phenomenon of "crow's feet" in cases of high-voltage accidents a vital reaction?.}, journal = {Forensic science, medicine, and pathology}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {145-146}, pmid = {25119243}, issn = {1556-2891}, mesh = {Facial Injuries/*pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Soot ; Wounds, Gunshot/*pathology ; }, }
@article {pmid25117450, year = {2014}, author = {Meilleur, AA and Berthiaume, C and Bertone, A and Mottron, L}, title = {Autism-specific covariation in perceptual performances: "g" or "p" factor?.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {8}, pages = {e103781}, pmid = {25117450}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {171795//Canadian Institutes of Health Research/Canada ; }, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation ; Adolescent ; Adult ; Autistic Disorder/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Case-Control Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Perception ; Photic Stimulation ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Autistic perception is characterized by atypical and sometimes exceptional performance in several low- (e.g., discrimination) and mid-level (e.g., pattern matching) tasks in both visual and auditory domains. A factor that specifically affects perceptive abilities in autistic individuals should manifest as an autism-specific association between perceptual tasks. The first purpose of this study was to explore how perceptual performances are associated within or across processing levels and/or modalities. The second purpose was to determine if general intelligence, the major factor that accounts for covariation in task performances in non-autistic individuals, equally controls perceptual abilities in autistic individuals.<br><br>METHODS: We asked 46 autistic individuals and 46 typically developing controls to perform four tasks measuring low- or mid-level visual or auditory processing. Intelligence was measured with the Wechsler's Intelligence Scale (FSIQ) and Raven Progressive Matrices (RPM). We conducted linear regression models to compare task performances between groups and patterns of covariation between tasks. The addition of either Wechsler's FSIQ or RPM in the regression models controlled for the effects of intelligence.<br><br>RESULTS: In typically developing individuals, most perceptual tasks were associated with intelligence measured either by RPM or Wechsler FSIQ. The residual covariation between unimodal tasks, i.e. covariation not explained by intelligence, could be explained by a modality-specific factor. In the autistic group, residual covariation revealed the presence of a plurimodal factor specific to autism.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Autistic individuals show exceptional performance in some perceptual tasks. Here, we demonstrate the existence of specific, plurimodal covariation that does not dependent on general intelligence (or "g" factor). Instead, this residual covariation is accounted for by a common perceptual process (or "p" factor), which may drive perceptual abilities differently in autistic and non-autistic individuals.}, }
@article {pmid25111085, year = {2014}, author = {Rokka, K and Pihlaja, M and Siitari, H and Soulsbury, CD}, title = {Sex-specific differences in offspring personalities across the laying order in magpies Pica pica.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {107}, number = {}, pages = {79-87}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2014.07.019}, pmid = {25111085}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Exploratory Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Personality/*physiology ; Reproduction/*physiology ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {Maternal effects provide an important mechanism for mothers to create variation in offspring personality, and to potentially influence offspring life history strategies e.g. creating more/less dispersive phenotypes. However, within-clutch maternal effects often vary and hence there is potential for within-clutch variation in personality. We studied the effects of hatching order on explorative and neophobic behaviour of the magpies Pica pica in relation to sex using novel environment and novel object experiments. Hatching order did affect explorative behaviour in magpie, but did so in opposite directions for either sex. First-hatched females were more explorative and had a tendency to be less neophobic, whereas in males, the reverse was true. Our results suggest that hormonal as well as post-natal environmental mechanisms could be underpinning this pattern. Future research is needed to fully understand the importance of both in creating different offspring personalities. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: insert SI title.}, }
@article {pmid25110694, year = {2014}, author = {Aspan, N and Bozsik, C and Gadoros, J and Nagy, P and Inantsy-Pap, J and Vida, P and Halasz, J}, title = {Emotion recognition pattern in adolescent boys with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.}, journal = {BioMed research international}, volume = {2014}, number = {}, pages = {761340}, pmid = {25110694}, issn = {2314-6141}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*psychology ; Behavior ; Emotions ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Recognition, Psychology ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Social and emotional deficits were recently considered as inherent features of individuals with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but only sporadic literature data exist on emotion recognition in adolescents with ADHD. The aim of the present study was to establish emotion recognition profile in adolescent boys with ADHD in comparison with control adolescents.<br><br>METHODS: Forty-four adolescent boys (13-16 years) participated in the study after informed consent; 22 boys had a clinical diagnosis of ADHD, while data were also assessed from 22 adolescent control boys matched for age and Raven IQ. Parent- and self-reported behavioral characteristics were assessed by the means of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. The recognition of six basic emotions was evaluated by the "Facial Expressions of Emotion-Stimuli and Tests."<br><br>RESULTS: Compared to controls, adolescents with ADHD were more sensitive in the recognition of disgust and, worse in the recognition of fear and showed a tendency for impaired recognition of sadness. Hyperactivity measures showed an inverse correlation with fear recognition.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that adolescent boys with ADHD have alterations in the recognition of specific emotions.}, }
@article {pmid25108788, year = {2014}, author = {Flores, FS and Nava, S and Batallán, G and Tauro, LB and Contigiani, MS and Diaz, LA and Guglielmone, AA}, title = {Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) on wild birds in north-central Argentina.}, journal = {Ticks and tick-borne diseases}, volume = {5}, number = {6}, pages = {715-721}, doi = {10.1016/j.ttbdis.2014.05.004}, pmid = {25108788}, issn = {1877-9603}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/classification/*parasitology ; Argentina ; Birds/classification/*parasitology ; Female ; Ixodidae/*classification/physiology ; Male ; }, abstract = {Ixodid ticks were collected from wild birds in five ecoregions in north-central Argentina, namely: Selva de las Yungas, Esteros del Iberá, Delta e Islas del Paraná, Selva Paranaense and Chaco Seco. A total of 2199 birds belonging to 139 species, 106 genera, 31 families and 11 orders were captured, but ticks were collected only from 121 birds (prevalence=5.5%) belonging to 39 species (28.1%) and three Orders: Tinamiformes (Tinamidae) and Falconiformes (Falconidae) in Selva de las Yungas and Passeriformes (Conopophagidae, Corvidae, Emberizidae, Furnariidae, Icteridae, Parulidae, Thamnophilidae, Thraupidae, Troglodytidae, Turdidae) for all ecoregions. The following tick species were found: Haemaphysalis juxtakochi, Haemaphysalis leporispalustris, Ixodes pararicinus plus Amblyomma sp. and Haemaphysalis sp. in Selva de las Yungas; Amblyomma triste and Ixodes auritulus in Delta e Islas del Paraná; Amblyomma dubitatum, A. triste and Amblyomma sp. in Esteros del Iberá; Amblyomma ovale and Amblyomma sp. in Selva Paranaense, and Amblyomma tigrinum in Chaco Seco. Amblyomma dubitatum was found for the first time on Passeriformes, while the records of A. ovale on avian hosts are the first for Argentina. Birds are also new hosts for I. pararicinus females. Besides 2 larvae and 1 nymph, and 1 larvae found on Tinamidae (Tinamiformes) and Falconidae (Falconiformes), respectively, all other ticks (691 larvae, 74 nymphs and 2 females) were found on Passeriformes with a relevant contribution of the family Turdidae. Birds are important hosts for I. pararicinus as shown by a prevalence of 45% while all others prevalence were below 15%. All the species of Amblyomma and Haemaphysalis found on birds in Argentina have been also detected on humans and are proven or potential vectors for human diseases. Therefore, their avian hosts are probable reservoirs of human pathogens in Argentina.}, }
@article {pmid25107529, year = {2015}, author = {Němec, M and Syrová, M and Dokoupilová, L and Veselý, P and Šmilauer, P and Landová, E and Lišková, S and Fuchs, R}, title = {Surface texture and priming play important roles in predator recognition by the red-backed shrike in field experiments.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {18}, number = {1}, pages = {259-268}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-014-0796-2}, pmid = {25107529}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Male ; Nesting Behavior ; *Predatory Behavior ; *Recognition, Psychology ; *Repetition Priming ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {We compared the responses of the nesting red-backed shrikes (Lanius collurio) to three dummies of a common nest predator, the Eurasian jay (Garrulus glandarius), each made from a different material (stuffed, plush, and silicone). The shrikes performed defensive behaviour including attacks on all three dummies. Nevertheless, the number of attacks significantly decreased from the stuffed dummy through the plush dummy and finally to the silicone dummy. Our results show that wild birds use not only colours but also other surface features as important cues for recognition and categorization of other bird species. Moreover, the silicone dummy was attacked only when presented after the stuffed or plush dummy. Thus, we concluded that the shrikes recognized the jay only the stuffed (with feathered surface) and plush (with hairy surface) dummies during the first encounter. Recognition of the silicon dummy (with glossy surface) was facilitated by previous encounters with the more accurate model. This process resembles the effect of perceptual priming, which is widely described in the literature on humans.}, }
@article {pmid25103698, year = {2015}, author = {Janecko, N and Čížek, A and Halová, D and Karpíšková, R and Myšková, P and Literák, I}, title = {Prevalence, characterization and antibiotic resistance of Salmonella isolates in large corvid species of europe and north America between 2010 and 2013.}, journal = {Zoonoses and public health}, volume = {62}, number = {4}, pages = {292-300}, doi = {10.1111/zph.12149}, pmid = {25103698}, issn = {1863-2378}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/microbiology/transmission ; Crows/*microbiology ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics ; Europe/epidemiology ; Feces/microbiology ; Humans ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; North America/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; Salmonella/drug effects/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Salmonella Infections/drug therapy/epidemiology/microbiology ; Salmonella Infections, Animal/*epidemiology/microbiology/transmission ; }, abstract = {It is well understood that Salmonella is carried by animals and in majority of cases as asymptomatic hosts. Surveillance efforts have focused on the role of agriculture and contamination points along the food chain as the main source of human infection; however, very little attention has been paid to the contribution of wildlife in the dissemination of Salmonella and what effect anthropogenic sources have on the circulation of antibiotic resistant Salmonella serovars in wildlife species. A purposive survey was taken of large corvids roosting yearly between November and March in Europe and North America. Two thousand and seven hundred and seventy-eight corvid faecal specimens from 11 countries were submitted for Salmonella spp. culture testing. Presumptive positive isolates were further serotyped, susceptibility tested and analysed for antibiotic resistance genes. Overall, 1.40% (39/2778) (CI = 1.01, 1.90) of samples were positive for Salmonella spp. Salmonella Enteritidis was the most prevalent serovar followed by S. Infantis, S. Montevideo and S. Typhimurium. No significant difference (P > 0.05) was found in the proportion of Salmonella recovered in Europe versus North America. The most variability of serovars within a site was in Kansas, USA with five different serovars recovered. European sites were significantly more likely to yield Salmonella resistant to more than one antibiotic (OR 71.5, P < 0.001, CI = 3.77, 1358) than North American sites, where no resistance was found. Resistance to nalidixic acid, a quinolone, was recovered in nine isolates from four serovars in four different sites across Europe. Large corvids contribute to the transmission and dissemination of Salmonella and resistance genes between human and animal populations and across great distances. This information adds to the knowledge base of zoonotic pathogen prevalence and antibiotic resistance ecology in wild birds.}, }
@article {pmid25101235, year = {2014}, author = {Poulin-Lord, MP and Barbeau, EB and Soulières, I and Monchi, O and Doyon, J and Benali, H and Mottron, L}, title = {Increased topographical variability of task-related activation in perceptive and motor associative regions in adult autistics.}, journal = {NeuroImage. Clinical}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {444-453}, pmid = {25101235}, issn = {2213-1582}, support = {MOP-84243//Canadian Institutes of Health Research/Canada ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Anoctamins ; Autistic Disorder/*pathology/physiopathology ; Case-Control Studies ; Cerebral Cortex/blood supply/*pathology ; Chloride Channels ; Female ; Functional Laterality ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Imagination ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Motor Activity/*physiology ; Oxygen/blood ; Photic Stimulation ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: An enhanced plasticity is suspected to play a role in various microstructural alterations, as well as in regional cortical reallocations observed in autism. Combined with multiple indications of enhanced perceptual functioning in autism, and indications of atypical motor functioning, enhanced plasticity predicts a superior variability in functional cortical allocation, predominant in perceptual and motor regions.<br><br>METHOD: To test this prediction, we scanned 23&#xa0;autistics and 22 typical participants matched on age, FSIQ, Raven percentile scores and handedness during a visuo-motor imitation task. For each participant, the coordinates of the strongest task-related activation peak were extracted in the primary (Brodmann area 4) and supplementary (BA 6) motor cortex, the visuomotor superior parietal cortex (BA 7), and the primary (BA 17) and associative (BAs 18&#xa0;+&#xa0;19) visual areas. Mean signal changes for each ROI in both hemispheres, and the number of voxels composing the strongest activation cluster were individually extracted to compare intensity and size of the signal between groups. For each ROI, in each hemisphere, and for every participant, the distance from their respective group average was used as a variable of interest to determine group differences in localization variability using repeated measures ANOVAs. Between-group comparison of whole-brain activation was also performed.<br><br>RESULTS: Both groups displayed a higher mean variability in the localization of activations in the associative areas compared to the primary visual or motor areas. However, despite this shared increased variability in associative cortices, a direct between-group comparison of the individual variability in localization of the activation revealed a significantly greater variability in the autistic group than in the typical group in the left visuo-motor superior parietal cortex (BA 7) and in the left associative visual areas (BAs 18&#xa0;+&#xa0;19).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Different and possibly unique strategies are used by each autistic individual. That enhanced variability in localization of activations in the autistic group is found in regions typically more variable in non-autistics raises the possibility that autism involves an enhancement and/or an alteration of typical plasticity mechanisms.&#xa0;The current study also highlights the necessity to verify, in fMRI studies involving autistic people, that hypoactivation at the group level does not result from each individual successfully completing a task using a unique brain allocation, even by comparison to his own group.}, }
@article {pmid25100696, year = {2014}, author = {Verhulst, S and Geerdink, M and Salomons, HM and Boonekamp, JJ}, title = {Social life histories: jackdaw dominance increases with age, terminally declines and shortens lifespan.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {281}, number = {1791}, pages = {20141045}, pmid = {25100696}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {*Aging ; Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Longevity ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; *Social Dominance ; }, abstract = {Behaviour may contribute to changes in fitness prospects with age, for example through effects of age-dependent social dominance on resource access. Older individuals often have higher dominance rank, which may reflect a longer lifespan of dominants and/or an increase in social dominance with age. In the latter case, increasing dominance could mitigate physiological senescence. We studied the social careers of free-living jackdaws over a 12 year period, and found that: (i) larger males attained higher ranks, (ii) social rank increased with age within individuals, and (iii) high-ranked individuals had shorter lifespan suggesting that maintaining or achieving high rank and associated benefits comes at a cost. Lastly, (iv) social rank declined substantially in the last year an individual was observed in the colony, and through its effect on resource access this may accelerate senescence. We suggest that behaviour affecting the ability to secure resources is integral to the senescence process via resource effects on somatic state, where behaviour may include not only social dominance, but also learning, memory, perception and (sexual) signalling. Studying behavioural effects on senescence via somatic state may be most effective in the wild, where there is competition for resources, which is usually avoided in laboratory conditions.}, }
@article {pmid25089821, year = {2014}, author = {Lee, WY and Kim, M and Jablonski, PG and Choe, JC and Lee, SI}, title = {Effect of incubation on bacterial communities of eggshells in a temperate bird, the Eurasian Magpie (Pica pica).}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {8}, pages = {e103959}, pmid = {25089821}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Bacteria/*growth &amp; development ; Egg Shell/*microbiology ; Nesting Behavior ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {Inhibitory effect of incubation on microbial growth has extensively been studied in wild bird populations using culture-based methods and conflicting results exist on whether incubation selectively affects the growth of microbes on the egg surface. In this study, we employed culture-independent methods, quantitative PCR and 16S rRNA gene pyrosequencing, to elucidate the effect of incubation on the bacterial abundance and bacterial community composition on the eggshells of the Eurasian Magpie (Pica pica). We found that total bacterial abundance increased and diversity decreased on incubated eggs while there were no changes on non-incubated eggs. Interestingly, Gram-positive Bacillus, which include mostly harmless species, became dominant and genus Pseudomonas, which include opportunistic avian egg pathogens, were significantly reduced after incubation. These results suggest that avian incubation in temperate regions may promote the growth of harmless (or benevolent) bacteria and suppress the growth of pathogenic bacterial taxa and consequently reduce the diversity of microbes on the egg surface. We hypothesize that this may occur due to difference in sensitivity to dehydration on the egg surface among microbes, combined with the introduction of Bacillus from bird feathers and due to the presence of antibiotics that certain bacteria produce.}, }
@article {pmid25089652, year = {2014}, author = {Luo, S and Krunic, A and Kang, HS and Chen, WL and Woodard, JL and Fuchs, JR and Swanson, SM and Orjala, J}, title = {Trichormamides A and B with Antiproliferative Activity from the Cultured Freshwater Cyanobacterium Trichormus sp. UIC 10339.}, journal = {Journal of natural products}, volume = {77}, number = {8}, pages = {1871-1880}, pmid = {25089652}, issn = {1520-6025}, support = {P01 CA125066/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; P41 GM068944/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; GM068944/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Amino Acids/chemistry ; Antineoplastic Agents/chemistry/*isolation &amp; purification/*pharmacology ; Cyanobacteria/*chemistry ; Drug Screening Assays, Antitumor ; Fresh Water/*microbiology ; HT29 Cells ; Humans ; Inhibitory Concentration 50 ; Lipopeptides/chemistry/*isolation &amp; purification/*pharmacology ; Molecular Structure ; Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, Biomolecular ; Peptides, Cyclic/chemistry/*isolation &amp; purification/*pharmacology ; Wisconsin ; }, abstract = {Two new cyclic lipopeptides, trichormamides A (1) and B (2), were isolated from the cultured freshwater cyanobacterium Trichormus sp. UIC 10339. The strain was obtained from a sample collected in Raven Lake in Northern Wisconsin. The planar structures of trichormamides A (1) and B (2) were determined using a combination of spectroscopic analyses including HRESIMS and 1D and 2D NMR experiments. The absolute configurations of the amino acid residues were assigned by the advanced Marfey's method after acid hydrolysis. Trichormamide A (1) is a cyclic undecapeptide containing two D-amino acid residues (D-Tyr and D-Leu) and one β-amino acid residue (β-aminodecanoic acid). Trichormamide B (2) is a cyclic dodecapeptide characterized by the presence of four nonstandard α-amino acid residues (homoserine, N-methylisoleucine, and two 3-hydroxyleucines) and one β-amino acid residue (β-aminodecanoic acid). Trichormamide B (2) was cytotoxic against MDA-MB-435 and HT-29 cancer cell lines with IC50 values of 0.8 and 1.5 μM, respectively.}, }
@article {pmid25081449, year = {2014}, author = {Dronen, NO and Tkach, VV}, title = {Key to the species of Morishitium Wienberg, 1928 (Cyclocoelidae), with the description of a new species from the red-billed blue magpie, Urocissa erythrorhyncha (Boddaert) (Corvidae) from Guizhou Province, People's Republic of China.}, journal = {Zootaxa}, volume = {3835}, number = {2}, pages = {273-282}, doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.3835.2.7}, pmid = {25081449}, issn = {1175-5334}, mesh = {Animal Distribution ; Animal Structures/anatomy &amp; histology/growth &amp; development ; Animals ; Body Size ; China ; Ecosystem ; Female ; Organ Size ; Ovum/cytology ; Trematoda/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification/growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {The 11 species currently assigned to Morishitium and the new species described herein are divided into the rauschi, straightum and vagum body types, and keys to species are provided. Morishitium urocissae n. sp. is described from the red-billed blue magpie, Urocissa erythrorhyncha (Corvidae), from the Dashahe Nature Reserve, Guizhou Province, southwestern Peoples Republic of China. Morishitium urocissae n. sp. is similar to M. bivesiculatum by having a similar ratio of the width of the pharynx to the width of the oral sucker (1:1.0-1:1.2 compared to 1:1.0) and a similar sized cirrus sac (470-565 long; 3-5% of body length compared to 400; 4%). Both species also have the anterior extent of the vitelline fields reaching the level of the pharynx, which distinguishes them from all other species in the genus that have an oral sucker present and lack a ventral. The new species differs from M. bivesiculatum by having a larger maximum egg size (135 by 70 compared to 127 by 65), uterine loops that overreach the ceca laterally rather than being intercecal, a shorter distance from the posterior testis to the posterior arch of the cyclocoel (70 [0-110] compared to 400), and by being from a magpie from the People's Republic of China rather than being from a barbet from Sri Lanka. The new species is most similar to M. dumetellae, but differs from this species by having wider eggs (65 compared to 60), a longer body (10,400- 13,350 compared to 8,500), a shorter cirrus sac (470-565; 3-5% of the body length compared to 595; 7%), a smaller ratio of the pharynx to the oral sucker (1:1.0-1:1.3 compared to 1:1.7), more laterally extensive uterine loops (overreaching the ceca compared to being interececal), the anterior extent of the vitelline fields reaching to the level of the pharynx as compared to terminating posterior to the cecal bifurcation, and by being from a magpie from the People's Republic of China rather than from a catbird from the United States.}, }
@article {pmid25077722, year = {2014}, author = {Small, R}, title = {Botulinum toxin injection for facial wrinkles.}, journal = {American family physician}, volume = {90}, number = {3}, pages = {168-175}, pmid = {25077722}, issn = {1532-0650}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Face ; Humans ; Injections, Intradermal ; Neuromuscular Agents/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {Botulinum toxin injection for treatment of facial wrinkles is the most frequently performed cosmetic procedure in the United States, and it is one of the most common entry procedures for clinicians seeking to incorporate aesthetic treatments into their practice. Treatment of frown lines and crow's feet, which are the cosmetic indications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and horizontal forehead lines, offers predictable results, has few adverse effects, and is associated with high patient satisfaction. Wrinkles are formed by dermal atrophy and repetitive contraction of underlying facial musculature. Botulinum toxin is a potent neurotoxin that inhibits release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction. Injection of small quantities of botulinum toxin into specific overactive muscles causes localized muscle relaxation that smooths the overlying skin and reduces wrinkles. Botulinum toxin effects take about two weeks to fully develop and last three to four months. Dynamic wrinkles, seen during muscle contraction, yield more dramatic results than static wrinkles, which are visible at rest. Botulinum toxin injection is contraindicated in persons with keloidal scarring, neuromuscular disorders (e.g., myasthenia gravis), allergies to constituents of botulinum toxin products, and body dysmorphic disorder. Minor bruising can occur with botulinum toxin injection. Temporary blepharoptosis and eyebrow ptosis are rare complications that are technique-dependent; incidence declines as injector skill improves.}, }
@article {pmid25068747, year = {2014}, author = {Ribeiro, MM and Lima, I and Malloy-Diniz, L and Lage, G and Pimentel, LG and Teixeira, AL}, title = {Corporal artistic training influences attention: a pilot study.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {118}, number = {3}, pages = {818-832}, doi = {10.2466/24.22.PMS.118k21w2}, pmid = {25068747}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Adult ; *Art ; Attention/*physiology ; Dancing/physiology ; Humans ; Male ; Music/psychology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Pilot Projects ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {This study assessed the effect of the Body Rhythmics (BRIM) on actors' attentional processes. BRIM is a combination of exercises using numbers and rules that enact musical parameters in the moving body through displacements. Male actors (N = 22) participated in the study: 7 in the BRIM (Study) group and 15 in the Control group (groups were equivalent on mean Raven's IQ). The Continuous Performance Test (CPT-II) was administered before and after an intensive period of BRIM training. There was no significant difference on the CPT-II before training. Group results for before vs after training showed a significant difference for reaction time for the Study group. There was also a trend to increased errors of commission in the Study group after BRIM training.}, }
@article {pmid25065381, year = {2014}, author = {Yuksel, EP and Sahin, G and Aydin, F and Senturk, N and Turanli, AY}, title = {Evaluation of effects of platelet-rich plasma on human facial skin.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology}, volume = {16}, number = {5}, pages = {206-208}, doi = {10.3109/14764172.2014.949274}, pmid = {25065381}, issn = {1476-4180}, mesh = {Adult ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; *Face ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Patient Satisfaction ; *Platelet-Rich Plasma ; *Rejuvenation ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been used for rapid healing and tissue regeneration in many fields of medicine. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of PRP application procedure on human facial skin.<br><br>METHODS: PRP was applied thrice at 2-week intervals on the face of ten healthy volunteers. It was applied to individual's forehead, malar area, and jaw by a dermaroller, and injected using a 27-gauge injector into the wrinkles of crow's feet. Participants were asked to grade on a scale from 0 to 5 for general appearance, skin firmness-sagging, wrinkle state and pigmentation disorder of their own face before each PRP procedure and 3 months after the last PRP procedure. While volunteers were evaluating their own face, they were also assessed by three different dermatologists at the same time by the same five-point scale.<br><br>RESULTS: There was statistically significant difference regarding the general appearance, skin firmness-sagging and wrinkle state according to the grading scale of the patients before and after three PRP applications. Whereas there was only statistically significant difference for the skin firmness-sagging according to the assessment of the dermatologists.<br><br>CONCLUSION: PRP application could be considered as an effective procedure for facial skin rejuvenation.}, }
@article {pmid25055630, year = {2014}, author = {Wheeler, SS and Woods, LW and Boyce, WM and Eckstrand, CD and Langevin, SA and Reisen, WK and Townsend, AK}, title = {West Nile virus and non-West Nile virus mortality and coinfection of American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) in California.}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {58}, number = {2}, pages = {255-261}, doi = {10.1637/10691-101413-Reg.1}, pmid = {25055630}, issn = {0005-2086}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/mortality/virology ; California/epidemiology ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid/veterinary ; Chromatography, Liquid/veterinary ; Coinfection/epidemiology/mortality/*veterinary/virology ; Communicable Diseases/epidemiology/etiology/mortality/*veterinary ; *Crows ; Environmental Pollutants/*toxicity ; *Epidemiological Monitoring/veterinary ; Liver Diseases/epidemiology/etiology/mortality/veterinary ; Prevalence ; Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Reproducibility of Results ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Seasons ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Tandem Mass Spectrometry/veterinary ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/mortality/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {American crows are acutely sensitive to West Nile virus (WNV) infection, and crow mortality has been used in WNV surveillance to monitor enzootic transmission. However, non-WNV sources of mortality could reduce the reliability of crow death as a surveillance tool. Here, using a combination of histopathologic, toxicologic, virologic, and molecular techniques we describe causes of mortality in 67 American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) that were collected from a population in the Sacramento Valley of California in 2012 and 2013. Evidence of infectious disease was detected in 70% (47/67) of carcasses. The majority of deaths were linked to a suite of non-WNV viral, bacterial, and fungal infections (39%; 23/59 cases), WNV (36%; 24/67 cases), and an acute toxic event (25%; 15/59 cases). Coinfections were detected in 20% (12/59) of birds and frequently were associated with WNV and poxviral dermatitis. Inferences about WNV activity based on crow mortality should be supported by laboratory confirmation because crow mortality frequently can be caused by other infectious diseases or toxic events.}, }
@article {pmid25055009, year = {2014}, author = {Logan, CJ and Jelbert, SA and Breen, AJ and Gray, RD and Taylor, AH}, title = {Modifications to the Aesop's Fable paradigm change New Caledonian crow performances.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {7}, pages = {e103049}, pmid = {25055009}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Problem Solving ; Reward ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {While humans are able to understand much about causality, it is unclear to what extent non-human animals can do the same. The Aesop's Fable paradigm requires an animal to drop stones into a water-filled tube to bring a floating food reward within reach. Rook, Eurasian jay, and New Caledonian crow performances are similar to those of children under seven years of age when solving this task. However, we know very little about the cognition underpinning these birds' performances. Here, we address several limitations of previous Aesop's Fable studies to gain insight into the causal cognition of New Caledonian crows. Our results provide the first evidence that any non-human animal can solve the U-tube task and can discriminate between water-filled tubes of different volumes. However, our results do not provide support for the hypothesis that these crows can infer the presence of a hidden causal mechanism. They also call into question previous object-discrimination performances. The methodologies outlined here should allow for more powerful comparisons between humans and other animal species and thus help us to determine which aspects of causal cognition are distinct to humans.}, }
@article {pmid25041813, year = {2014}, author = {Shindo, A and Ueda, Y and Kuzuhara, S and Kokubo, Y}, title = {Neuropsychological study of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and parkinsonism-dementia complex in Kii peninsula, Japan.}, journal = {BMC neurology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {151}, pmid = {25041813}, issn = {1471-2377}, mesh = {Aged ; Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/*psychology ; Dementia/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Japan ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinsonian Disorders/physiopathology/*psychology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The Kii peninsula of Japan is one of the foci of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and parkinsonism-dementia complex (ALS/PDC) in the world. The purpose of this study is to clarify the neuropsychological features of the patients with ALS/PDC of the Kii peninsula (Kii ALS/PDC).<br><br>METHODS: The medical interview was done on 13 patients with Kii ALS/PDC, 12 patients with Alzheimer's disease, 10 patients with progressive supranuclear palsy, 10 patients with frontotemporal lobar degeneration and 10 patients with dementia with Lewy bodies. These patients and their carer/spouse were asked to report any history of abulia-apathy, hallucination, personality change and other variety of symptoms. Patients also underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), and neuropsychological tests comprising the Mini Mental State Examination, Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, verbal fluency, and Paired-Associate Word Learning Test and some of them were assessed with the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB).<br><br>RESULTS: All patients with Kii ALS/PDC had cognitive dysfunction including abulia-apathy, bradyphrenia, hallucination, decrease of extraversion, disorientation, and delayed reaction time. Brain MRI showed atrophy of the frontal and/or temporal lobes, and SPECT revealed a decrease in cerebral blood flow of the frontal and/or temporal lobes in all patients with Kii ALS/PDC. Disorientation, difficulty in word recall, delayed reaction time, and low FAB score were recognized in Kii ALS/PDC patients with cognitive dysfunction.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The core neuropsychological features of the patients with Kii ALS/PDC were characterized by marked abulia-apathy, bradyphrenia, and hallucination.}, }
@article {pmid25040466, year = {2015}, author = {Gao, YX and Li, P and Jiang, CH and Liu, C and Chen, Y and Chen, L and Ruan, HZ and Gao, YQ}, title = {Psychological and cognitive impairment of long-term migrators to high altitudes and the relationship to physiological and biochemical changes.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {22}, number = {10}, pages = {1363-1369}, doi = {10.1111/ene.12507}, pmid = {25040466}, issn = {1468-1331}, mesh = {Adult ; *Altitude ; *Cognition Disorders/blood/etiology/physiopathology ; Humans ; *Hypoxia/blood/etiology/physiopathology ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Tibet ; *Transients and Migrants/psychology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The present study aimed to examine how long-term migration to high-altitude regions affects mentality and cognition, and the correlation with various physiological and biochemical changes.<br><br>METHODS: The WHO Neurobehavioral Core Test Battery, Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index questionnaire were used to assess 141 young male subjects who lived in plain regions and 217 young male subjects who had migrated to a 4500 m high-altitude region and lived there for 1-5 years. Arterial oxyhemoglobin saturation, cerebral tissue oxygenation indices (TOIs), serum S100B and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) were also measured.<br><br>RESULTS: Long-term migrators to a high-altitude region exhibited exacerbated mood disorders, retarded color discrimination ability, decreased visual memory capacity, and impaired perceptual motor skill and motion stability. In addition, the migrators exhibited lower RSPM scores and lower sleep quality. Further analyses revealed significant correlations between sleep quality and cerebral TOIs, mood and sleep quality, mood and certain cognitive functions, mood and serum BDNF levels, and RSPM scores and serum S100B levels.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Long-term living at high altitudes causes significant impairment of psychological and cognitive function. Cerebral hypoxic extent, sleep quality and biochemical dysfunction are major influencing factors.}, }
@article {pmid25028778, year = {2014}, author = {Costa, Dde S and Paula, JJ and Alvim-Soares Júnior, AM and Diniz, BS and Romano-Silva, MA and Malloy-Diniz, LF and Miranda, DM}, title = {ADHD inattentive symptoms mediate the relationship between intelligence and academic performance in children aged 6-14.}, journal = {Revista brasileira de psiquiatria (Sao Paulo, Brazil : 1999)}, volume = {36}, number = {4}, pages = {313-321}, doi = {10.1590/1516-4446-2013-1201}, pmid = {25028778}, issn = {1809-452X}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*physiopathology ; Behavior/physiology ; Brazil ; Child ; Child Behavior Disorders/*physiopathology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Models, Psychological ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Students/*psychology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Fluid intelligence and the behavioral problems of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are related to academic performance, but how this association occurs is unclear. This study aimed to assess mediation and moderation models that test possible pathways of influence between these factors.<br><br>METHODS: Sixty-two children with ADHD and 33 age-matched, typically developing students were evaluated with Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices and the spelling and arithmetic subtests of the Brazilian School Achievement Test. Dimensional ADHD symptomatology was reported by parents.<br><br>RESULTS: Our findings suggest that fluid intelligence has a significant impact on academic tests through inattention. The inattentive dimension was the principal behavioral source of influence, also accounting for the association of hyperactive-impulsive manifestations with school achievement. This cognitive-to-behavioral influence path seems to be independent of diagnosis related group, and gender, but lower socioeconomic status might increase its strength.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Fluid intelligence is a relevant factor in the influence of ADHD behavioral symptoms on academic performance, but its impact is indirect. Therefore, early identification of both fluid intelligence and inattentive symptoms is of the utmost importance to prevent impaired academic performance and future difficulties in functioning.}, }
@article {pmid25027746, year = {2015}, author = {Schiebener, J and García-Arias, M and García-Villamisar, D and Cabanyes-Truffino, J and Brand, M}, title = {Developmental changes in decision making under risk: The role of executive functions and reasoning abilities in 8- to 19-year-old decision makers.}, journal = {Child neuropsychology : a journal on normal and abnormal development in childhood and adolescence}, volume = {21}, number = {6}, pages = {759-778}, doi = {10.1080/09297049.2014.934216}, pmid = {25027746}, issn = {1744-4136}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Brain/*physiology ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Decision Making/*physiology ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Female ; Games, Experimental ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Risk-Taking ; Thinking ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Previous studies have shown that children and adolescents often tend toward risky decisions despite explicit knowledge about the potential negative consequences. This phenomenon has been suggested to be associated with the immaturity of brain areas involved in cognitive control functions. Particularly, "frontal lobe functions," such as executive functions and reasoning, mature until young adulthood and are thought to be involved in age-related changes in decision making under explicit risk conditions. We investigated 112 participants, aged 8-19 years, with a frequently used task assessing decisions under risk, the Game of Dice Task (GDT). Additionally, we administered the Modified Card Sorting Test assessing executive functioning (categorization, cognitive flexibility, and strategy maintenance) as well as the Ravens Progressive Matrices assessing reasoning. The results showed that risk taking in the GDT decreased with increasing age and this effect was not moderated by reasoning but by executive functions: Particularly, young persons with weak executive functioning showed very risky decision making. Thus, the individual maturation of executive functions, associated with areas in the prefrontal cortex, seems to be an important factor in young peoples' behavior in risky decision-making situations.}, }
@article {pmid25024901, year = {2014}, author = {Dohms, KM and Burg, TM}, title = {Limited geographic genetic structure detected in a widespread Palearctic corvid, Nucifraga caryocatactes.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {2}, number = {}, pages = {e371}, pmid = {25024901}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {The Eurasian or spotted nutcracker (Nucifraga caryocatactes) is a widespread resident corvid found throughout the Palearctic from Central Europe to Japan. Characterized by periodic bouts of irruptive dispersal in search of Pinus seed crops, this species has potential for high levels of gene flow across its range. Previous analysis of 11 individuals did not find significant range-wide population genetic structure. We investigated population structure using 924 base pairs of mitochondrial DNA control region sequence data from 62 individuals from 12 populations distributed throughout the nutcracker's range. We complemented this analysis by incorporating additional genetic data from previously published sequences. High levels of genetic diversity and limited population genetic structure were detected suggesting that potential barriers to dispersal do not restrict gene flow in nutcrackers.}, }
@article {pmid25019809, year = {2014}, author = {Ancliff, M and Park, JM}, title = {Evolution dynamics of a model for gene duplication under adaptive conflict.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {89}, number = {6}, pages = {062702}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.89.062702}, pmid = {25019809}, issn = {1550-2376}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; *Gene Duplication ; Linear Models ; *Models, Genetic ; Time ; }, abstract = {We present and solve the dynamics of a model for gene duplication showing escape from adaptive conflict. We use a Crow-Kimura quasispecies model of evolution where the fitness landscape is a function of Hamming distances from two reference sequences, which are assumed to optimize two different gene functions, to describe the dynamics of a mixed population of individuals with single and double copies of a pleiotropic gene. The evolution equations are solved through a spin coherent state path integral, and we find two phases: one is an escape from an adaptive conflict phase, where each copy of a duplicated gene evolves toward subfunctionalization, and the other is a duplication loss of function phase, where one copy maintains its pleiotropic form and the other copy undergoes neutral mutation. The phase is determined by a competition between the fitness benefits of subfunctionalization and the greater mutational load associated with maintaining two gene copies. In the escape phase, we find a dynamics of an initial population of single gene sequences only which escape adaptive conflict through gene duplication and find that there are two time regimes: until a time t single gene sequences dominate, and after t double gene sequences outgrow single gene sequences. The time t is identified as the time necessary for subfunctionalization to evolve and spread throughout the double gene sequences, and we show that there is an optimum mutation rate which minimizes this time scale.}, }
@article {pmid25018143, year = {2014}, author = {Shibahashi, K and Morita, A and Kimura, T}, title = {Does a craniotomy for treatment of unruptured aneurysm affect cognitive function?.}, journal = {Neurologia medico-chirurgica}, volume = {54}, number = {10}, pages = {786-793}, pmid = {25018143}, issn = {1349-8029}, mesh = {Aged ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology ; *Craniotomy ; Female ; Humans ; Intracranial Aneurysm/*surgery ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Postoperative Complications/diagnosis/*etiology ; Prospective Studies ; Risk Factors ; *Surgical Instruments ; }, abstract = {The surgical procedure used to treat an unruptured intracranial aneurysm (UIA) has controversial effects on cognitive function. From January 2010 through December 2012, we enrolled patients who underwent surgical clipping for a UIA. Patients were tested within one week prior to surgery and again postoperatively (6.8 ± 2.3 days) using a neuropsychological battery comprising the Mini-Mental State Examination, the Trail Making Test (TMT), the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), and Raven's colored progressive matrices (RCPM). Differences between preoperative and postoperative test scores for each examination were analyzed across individuals. In an additional subgroup analysis, patients were grouped according to age (< 65 or ≥ 65 years), the largest dimension of the aneurysm, the location of the aneurysm (i.e., anterior communicating artery, internal carotid artery, or middle cerebral artery) and operation duration. Paired student's t-tests were used to examine potential differences between groups. Two-tailed P-values < 0.05 were considered significant. Seventy-one patients were included in the analysis. The surgical procedure used to correct a UIA resulted in significant changes in neuropsychological scores. After the procedure, the TMT-A score declined significantly, whereas the FAB and RCPM scores were significantly improved. In the subgroup analysis, a significant deterioration in TMT-A score was observed in older patients and those with larger aneurysms, anterior communicating artery aneurysms and longer surgeries. Our findings, therefore, indicate that the surgical procedure to correct a UIA affects cognitive function. Older patients and those with large aneurysms, anterior communicating aneurysms, and long operations represent the high-risk groups.}, }
@article {pmid25016766, year = {2014}, author = {Siuda, K and Chrobak, AA and Starowicz-Filip, A and Tereszko, A and Dudek, D}, title = {[Emotional disorders in patients with cerebellar damage--case studies].}, journal = {Psychiatria polska}, volume = {48}, number = {2}, pages = {289-297}, pmid = {25016766}, issn = {0033-2674}, mesh = {Adult ; Affective Symptoms/*diagnosis/*etiology ; Cerebellar Diseases/*complications/surgery ; Cerebellum/pathology/surgery ; Cognition Disorders/etiology ; Emotions ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Mood Disorders/*diagnosis/*etiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {AIM: Growing number of research shows the role of the cerebellum in the regulation of affect. Lesions of the cerebellum can lead to emotional disregulation, a significant part of the Cerebellar Cognitive Affective Syndrome. The aim of this article is to analyze the most recent studies concerning the cerebellar participation in emotional reactions and to present three cases: two female and one male who suffered from cerebellar damage and presented post-traumatic affective and personality change.<br><br>METHOD: The patients' neuropsychological examination was performed with Raven's Progressive Matrices Test--standard version, Trial Making Test, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, Auditory Verbal Learning Test by Luria, Benton Visual Retention Test, Verbal Fluency Test, Stroop Interference Test, Attention and Perceptivity Test (Test Uwagi i Spostrzegawczo&#x15b;ci TUS), Frontal Behavioral Inventory (FBI).<br><br>RESULTS: The review of the literature suggest cerebellar participation, especially teh vermis and paravermial regions, in the detection, integration and filtration of emotional information and in regulation of autonomic emotional responses. In the described patients we observed: oversensitivity, irritability, impulsivity and self-neglect. The man and the woman with right-sided lesions presented similar symptoms: rigidity ofthought, stubbornness, lack of criticism,jocular and inappropriate behavior. The woman with left-sided cerebellar lesion was adynamic, apathic and passive, she presented emotional blunting, social isolation, lack of interests and motivation, general cognitive slowdown.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Both the analyzed research and the described cases indicate the connection between the cerebellum and emotion regulation. The symptoms presented by the described patients were most probably a consequence of damaged cerebellar projections to subcortical structures (the limbic system) and frontal areas. The diversification of symptoms depending on the localization of lesions had not been described yet and seems to indicate an interesting direction for future research.}, }
@article {pmid25015133, year = {2015}, author = {Ellison, AM and Watson, J and Demers, E}, title = {Testing problem solving in turkey vultures (Cathartes aura) using the string-pulling test.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {18}, number = {1}, pages = {111-118}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-014-0782-8}, pmid = {25015133}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition ; *Falconiformes ; Food ; Male ; *Problem Solving ; Reward ; }, abstract = {To examine problem solving in turkey vultures (Cathartes aura), six captive vultures were presented with a string-pulling task, which involved drawing a string up to access food. This test has been used to assess cognition in many bird species. A small piece of meat suspended by a string was attached to a perch. Two birds solved the problem without apparent trial-and-error learning; a third bird solved the problem after observing a successful bird, suggesting that this individual learned from the other vulture. The remaining birds failed to complete the task. The successful birds significantly reduced the time needed to solve the task from early trials compared to late trials, suggesting that they had learned to solve the problem and improved their technique. The successful vultures solved the problem in a novel way: they pulled the string through their beak with their tongue, and may have gathered the string in their crop until the food was in reach. In contrast, ravens, parrots and finches use a stepwise process; they pull the string up, tuck it under foot, and reach down to pull up another length. As scavengers, turkey vultures use their beak for tearing and ripping at carcasses, but possess large, flat, webbed feet that are ill-suited to pulling or grasping. The ability to solve this problem and the novel approach used by the turkey vultures in this study may be a result of the unique evolutionary pressures imposed on this scavenging species.}, }
@article {pmid25004080, year = {2014}, author = {Kanai, M and Matsui, H and Watanabe, S and Izawa, E}, title = {Involvement of vision in tool use in crow.}, journal = {Neuroreport}, volume = {25}, number = {13}, pages = {1064-1068}, doi = {10.1097/WNR.0000000000000229}, pmid = {25004080}, issn = {1473-558X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Male ; Psychomotor Performance ; *Tool Use Behavior ; *Vision, Ocular ; }, abstract = {Birds are capable of dexterous sensory-motor activities such as tool use. Reaching is a crucial component of tool use and is a vision-guided behavior in primates, in which arm movement is monitored online in a stable visual frame. However, vision-guided reaching in primates is enabled by anatomical separation of the head and arm; neck reaching in birds accompanies head movement, which produces unstable vision because the eye necessarily moves with the bill. This anatomical difference raises the question whether tool use in birds involves visuomotor mechanisms that are distinct from those in primates. As the role of vision in avian tool use has been poorly understood, we investigated the role of vision in tool use in the large-billed crow (Corvus macrorhynchos), a nontool user in the wild. Crows were trained to manipulate an L-shaped hook to retrieve food that was otherwise out of reach. After training, an opaque panel was placed on the front window of the platform to block their vision, and the effects on tool use were tested with respect to performance and movement trajectory. Vision blocking caused similar deviation of tool movement trajectories for both near and far targets, as well as far target-specific deviation. This suggests the involvement of vision in tool use by crows, specifically in the premanipulation process for conversion of vision-body coordinates for motor planning and in the process of tool manipulation. This is the first behavioral evidence for the involvement of vision in avian tool use.}, }
@article {pmid25001401, year = {2015}, author = {Kalinowski, RS and Gabriel, PO and Black, JM}, title = {Who's watching influences caching effort in wild Steller's jays (Cyanocitta stelleri).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {18}, number = {1}, pages = {95-98}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-014-0780-x}, pmid = {25001401}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior/*psychology ; Female ; Food ; Male ; *Passeriformes ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Steller's jays (Cyanocitta stelleri) often store food and return to retrieve the stored items at a later time. Between caching and consumption, stored food has the potential to be pilfered by conspecific observers. We investigated whether individually marked Steller's jays in suburban neighborhoods of Arcata, California, USA, adjusted cache concealment effort when in the presence of conspecifics. Both male and female jays traveled the shortest distances to cache when alone, traveled further when a mate was present, and traveled furthest when neighbors from adjacent territories were present. These results suggest that Steller's jays recognize and respond to social contexts when concealing food items.}, }
@article {pmid25001000, year = {2015}, author = {O'Shea, DM and Fieo, RA}, title = {Individual differences in fluid intelligence predicts inattentional blindness in a sample of older adults: a preliminary study.}, journal = {Psychological research}, volume = {79}, number = {4}, pages = {570-578}, pmid = {25001000}, issn = {1430-2772}, mesh = {Aged ; Aging/*physiology ; Attention/*physiology ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; *Individuality ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Pilot Projects ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Previous research has shown that aging increases susceptibility to inattentional blindness (Graham and Burke, Psychol Aging 26:162, 2011) as well as individual differences in cognitive ability related to working memory and executive functions in separate studies. Therefore, the present study was conducted in an attempt to bridge a gap that involved investigating 'age-sensitive' cognitive abilities that may predict inattentional blindness in a sample of older adults. We investigated whether individual differences in general fluid intelligence and speed of processing would predict inattentional blindness in our sample of older adults. Thirty-six healthy older adults took part in the study. Using the inattentional blindness paradigm developed by Most et al. (Psychol Rev 112:217, 2005), we investigated whether rates of inattentional blindness could be predicted by participant's performance on the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices and a choice-reaction time task. A Mann-Whitney U test revealed that a higher score on the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices was significantly associated with lower incidences of inattentional blindness. However, a t test revealed that choice-reaction times were not significantly associated with inattentional blindness. Preliminary results from the present study suggest that individual differences in general fluid intelligence are predictive of inattentional blindness in older adults but not speed of processing. Moreover, our findings are consistent with previous studies that have suggested executive attention control may be the source of these individual differences. These findings also highlight the association between attention and general fluid intelligence and how it may impact environmental awareness. Future research would benefit from repeating these analyses in a larger sample and also including a younger comparison group.}, }
@article {pmid24994502, year = {2014}, author = {Nicholson, B and O'Hare, D}, title = {The effects of individual differences, prior experience and cognitive load on the transfer of dynamic decision-making performance.}, journal = {Ergonomics}, volume = {57}, number = {9}, pages = {1353-1365}, doi = {10.1080/00140139.2014.933884}, pmid = {24994502}, issn = {1366-5847}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Awareness ; *Decision Making ; Female ; Fires ; Humans ; *Individuality ; Male ; Practice, Psychological ; Psychological Tests ; *Transfer, Psychology ; Video Games ; Workload/*psychology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Situational awareness is recognised as an important factor in the performance of individuals and teams in dynamic decision-making (DDM) environments (Salmon et al. 2014). The present study was designed to investigate whether the scores on the WOMBAT™ Situational Awareness and Stress Tolerance Test (Roscoe and North 1980) would predict the transfer of DDM performance from training under different levels of cognitive load to a novel situation. Participants practised a simulated firefighting task under either low or high conditions of cognitive load and then performed a (transfer) test in an alternative firefighting environment under an intermediate level of cognitive load. WOMBAT™ test scores were a better predictor of DDM performance than scores on the Raven Matrices. Participants with high WOMBAT™ scores performed better regardless of their training condition. Participants with recent gaming experience who practised under low cognitive load showed better practice phase performance but worse transfer performance than those who practised under high cognitive load.<br><br>PRACTITIONER SUMMARY: The relationship between task experience, situational awareness ability, cognitive load and the transfer of dynamic decision-making (DDM) performance was investigated. Results showed that the WOMBAT&#x2122; test predicted transfer of DDM performance regardless of task cognitive load. The effects of cognitive load on performance varied according to previous task-relevant experience.}, }
@article {pmid24987101, year = {2014}, author = {Ramonaite, S and Kudirkiene, E and Tamuleviciene, E and Leviniene, G and Malakauskas, A and Gölz, G and Alter, T and Malakauskas, M}, title = {Prevalence and genotypes of Campylobacter jejuni from urban environmental sources in comparison with clinical isolates from children.}, journal = {Journal of medical microbiology}, volume = {63}, number = {Pt 9}, pages = {1205-1213}, doi = {10.1099/jmm.0.072892-0}, pmid = {24987101}, issn = {1473-5644}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Animals ; Campylobacter Infections/*microbiology/veterinary ; Campylobacter jejuni/*classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Cats ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Columbidae ; Crows ; Dogs ; *Environmental Microbiology ; Female ; Genotype ; Humans ; Infant ; Male ; Molecular Epidemiology ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; Prevalence ; Urban Population ; }, abstract = {This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of Campylobacter jejuni in potential contamination sources that are not regularly monitored such as free-living urban pigeons and crows, dogs, cats and urban environmental water and to assess the possible impact on the epidemiology of campylobacteriosis in children using multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Campylobacter spp. were detected in 36.2 % of faecal samples of free-living urban birds and in 40.4 % of environmental water samples. A low prevalence of Campylobacter spp. was detected in dogs and cats, with 7.9 and 9.1 %, respectively. Further identification of isolates revealed that environmental water and pet samples were mostly contaminated by other Campylobacter spp. than C. jejuni, whereas C. jejuni was the most prevalent species in faecal samples of free-living birds (35.4 %). This species was the dominant cause of campylobacteriosis in children (91.5 %). In addition, the diversity of C. jejuni MLST types in free-living birds and children was investigated. Clonal complex (CC) 179 was predominant among free-living urban birds; however, only two isolates from children were assigned to this CC. One dog and one child isolate were assigned to the same clonal complex (CC48) and sequence type (ST) 918. The dominant two clonal complexes among the child clinical isolates (CC353 and CC21) were not detected among C. jejuni strains isolated from environmental sources examined in this study. As only two CCs were shared by environmental and child C. jejuni isolates and a high number of novel alleles and STs were found in C. jejuni isolated from free-living urban birds and environmental water, there is probably only a limited link between urban environmental sources and campylobacteriosis in children, particularly in rather cold climatic conditions.}, }
@article {pmid24984447, year = {2014}, author = {Boyce, K}, title = {On the equivalence of Goodman's and Hempel's paradoxes.}, journal = {Studies in history and philosophy of science}, volume = {45}, number = {}, pages = {32-42}, doi = {10.1016/j.shpsa.2013.12.002}, pmid = {24984447}, issn = {0039-3681}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; *Intuition ; Knowledge ; *Logic ; Philosophy/*history ; }, abstract = {Historically, Nelson Goodman's paradox involving the predicates 'grue' and 'bleen' has been taken to furnish a serious blow to Carl Hempel's theory of confirmation in particular and to purely formal theories of confirmation in general. In this paper, I argue that Goodman's paradox is no more serious of a threat to Hempel's theory of confirmation than is Hempel's own paradox of the ravens. I proceed by developing a suggestion from R. D. Rosenkrantz into an argument for the conclusion that these paradoxes are, in fact, equivalent. My argument, if successful, is of both historical and philosophical interest. Goodman himself maintained that Hempel's theory of confirmation was capable of handling the paradox of the ravens. And Hempel eventually conceded that Goodman's paradox showed that there could be no adequate, purely syntactical theory of confirmation. The conclusion of my argument entails, by contrast, that Hempel's theory of confirmation is incapable of handling Goodman's paradox if and only if it is incapable of handling the paradox of the ravens. It also entails that for any adequate solution to one of these paradoxes, there is a corresponding and equally adequate solution to the other.}, }
@article {pmid24984324, year = {2014}, author = {Gavrilov, VM}, title = {Ecological and scaling analysis of the energy expenditure of rest, activity, flight, and evaporative water loss in Passeriformes and non-Passeriformes in relation to seasonal migrations and to the occupation of boreal stations in high and moderate latitudes.}, journal = {The Quarterly review of biology}, volume = {89}, number = {2}, pages = {107-150}, doi = {10.1086/676046}, pmid = {24984324}, issn = {0033-5770}, mesh = {Animal Migration/*physiology ; Animals ; Basal Metabolism ; Birds/physiology ; *Ecology ; Energy Metabolism/*physiology ; Metabolism ; Molting/physiology ; Passeriformes/*metabolism/physiology ; *Seasons ; Temperature ; Water Supply ; }, abstract = {A unified system of bioenergetic parameters that describe thermal regulation and energy metabolism in many passerine and non-passerine species has been developed. These parameters have been analyzed as functions of ambient temperature, and bioenergetic models for various species have been developed. The level of maximum food energy or maximal existence metabolism (MPE) is 1.3 times higher in passerines than in non-passerines, which is consistent with the ratio of their basal metabolic rates (BMR). The optimal ambient temperature for maximizing productive processes (e.g., reproduction, molting) is lower for passerines than for non passerines, which allows passerines to have higher production rates at moderate ambient temperatures. This difference in the optimal ambient temperature may explain the variation in bioenergetic parameters along latitudinal gradients, such as the well-known ecological rule of clutch size (or mass) increase in the more northerly passerine birds. The increased potential for productive energy output in the north may also allow birds to molt faster there. This phenomenon allows passerine birds to occupy a habitat that fluctuates widely in ambient temperature compared with non-passerine birds of similar size. Passerines have a more effective system for maintaining heat balance at both high and low temperatures. The high metabolism and small body sizes of passerines are consistent with omnivore development and with ecological plasticity. Among large passerines, the unfavorable ratio of MPE to BMR should decrease the energy that is available for productive processes. This consequence limits both the reproductive output and the development of long migration (particularly in Corvus corax). The hypothesis regarding BMR increase in passerines was suggested based on an aerodynamic analysis of the flight speed and the wing characteristics. This allometric analysis shows that the flight velocity is approximately 20% lower in Passeriformes than in non-Passeriformes, which is consistent with the inverted ratio of their BMR level. The regressions for the aerodynamic characteristics of wings show that passerines do not change the morphological characteristics of their wings to decrease velocity. Passerine birds prefer forest habitats. The size range of 5-150 g for birds in forest habitats is almost exclusively occupied by passerines because of their large energetic capability.}, }
@article {pmid24983525, year = {2014}, author = {Oravcova, V and Janecko, N and Ansorge, A and Masarikova, M and Literak, I}, title = {First record of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium in Canadian wildlife.}, journal = {Environmental microbiology reports}, volume = {6}, number = {3}, pages = {210-211}, doi = {10.1111/1758-2229.12141}, pmid = {24983525}, issn = {1758-2229}, mesh = {Animal Diseases/*epidemiology/*microbiology ; Animals ; Animals, Wild/*microbiology ; Canada ; Enterococcus faecium/*drug effects/*isolation &amp; purification ; Gram-Positive Bacterial Infections/*veterinary ; *Vancomycin Resistance ; }, abstract = {In this study, we focused on spreading of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) to the environment. We studied that weather crows in Canada may be carriers and potentially reservoirs of VRE with vanA gene. We have found one multi-resistant isolate of Enterococcus faecium sequence type (ST) 448 with vanA gene on Prince Edward Island. This study is the first report of VRE in Canadian wildlife.}, }
@article {pmid24971589, year = {2014}, author = {Langevin, SA and Bowen, RA and Reisen, WK and Andrade, CC and Ramey, WN and Maharaj, PD and Anishchenko, M and Kenney, JL and Duggal, NK and Romo, H and Bera, AK and Sanders, TA and Bosco-Lauth, A and Smith, JL and Kuhn, R and Brault, AC}, title = {Host competence and helicase activity differences exhibited by West Nile viral variants expressing NS3-249 amino acid polymorphisms.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {6}, pages = {e100802}, pmid = {24971589}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {R01 CI000235/CI/NCPDCID CDC HHS/United States ; R01 AI061822/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; UO1 CI000235/CI/NCPDCID CDC HHS/United States ; R01 AI055607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; AI061822/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01-AI55607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; *Amino Acid Substitution ; Animals ; Chlorocebus aethiops ; Crows/virology ; *Host Specificity ; Mice ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; RNA Helicases/chemistry/genetics/metabolism ; Serine Endopeptidases/chemistry/genetics/metabolism ; Sparrows/virology ; Vero Cells ; Viral Nonstructural Proteins/chemistry/*genetics/metabolism ; Virulence/genetics ; West Nile virus/*genetics/pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {A single helicase amino acid substitution, NS3-T249P, has been shown to increase viremia magnitude/mortality in American crows (AMCRs) following West Nile virus (WNV) infection. Lineage/intra-lineage geographic variants exhibit consistent amino acid polymorphisms at this locus; however, the majority of WNV isolates associated with recent outbreaks reported worldwide have a proline at the NS3-249 residue. In order to evaluate the impact of NS3-249 variants on avian and mammalian virulence, multiple amino acid substitutions were engineered into a WNV infectious cDNA (NY99; NS3-249P) and the resulting viruses inoculated into AMCRs, house sparrows (HOSPs) and mice. Differential viremia profiles were observed between mutant viruses in the two bird species; however, the NS3-249P virus produced the highest mean peak viral loads in both avian models. In contrast, this avian modulating virulence determinant had no effect on LD50 or the neurovirulence phenotype in the murine model. Recombinant helicase proteins demonstrated variable helicase and ATPase activities; however, differences did not correlate with avian or murine viremia phenotypes. These in vitro and in vivo data indicate that avian-specific phenotypes are modulated by critical viral-host protein interactions involving the NS3-249 residue that directly influence transmission efficiency and therefore the magnitude of WNV epizootics in nature.}, }
@article {pmid24967077, year = {2014}, author = {DeGregorio, BA and Weatherhead, PJ and Sperry, JH}, title = {Power lines, roads, and avian nest survival: effects on predator identity and predation intensity.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {4}, number = {9}, pages = {1589-1600}, pmid = {24967077}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {1 Anthropogenic alteration of landscapes can affect avian nest success by influencing the abundance, distribution, and behavior of predators. Understanding avian nest predation risk necessitates understanding how landscapes affect predator distribution and behavior. 2 From a sample of 463 nests of 17 songbird species, we evaluated how landscape features (distance to forest edge, unpaved roads, and power lines) influenced daily nest survival. We also used video cameras to identify nest predators at 137 nest predation events and evaluated how landscape features influenced predator identity. Finally, we determined the abundance and distribution of several of the principal predators using surveys and radiotelemetry. 3 Distance to power lines was the best predictor of predator identity: predation by brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater), corvids (Corvus sp. and Cyanocitta cristata), racers (Coluber constrictor), and coachwhips (Masticophis flagellum) increased with proximity to power lines, whereas predation by rat snakes (Elaphe obsoleta) and raptors decreased. In some cases, predator density may reliably indicate nest predation risk because racers, corvids, and cowbirds frequently used power line right-of-ways. 4 Of five bird species with enough nests to analyze individually, daily nest survival of only indigo buntings (Passerina cyanea) decreased with proximity to power lines, despite predation by most predators at our site being positively associated with power lines. For all nesting species combined, distance to unpaved road was the model that most influenced daily nest survival. This pattern is likely a consequence of rat snakes, the locally dominant nest predator (28% of predation events), rarely using power lines and associated areas. Instead, rat snakes were frequently associated with road edges, indicating that not all edges are functionally similar. 5 Our results suggest that interactions between predators and landscape features are likely to be specific to both the local predators and landscape. Thus, predicting how anthropogenic changes to landscapes affect nesting birds requires that we know more about how landscape changes affect the behavior of nest predators and which nest predators are locally important.}, }
@article {pmid24962121, year = {2014}, author = {Atkins, SM and Sprenger, AM and Colflesh, GJ and Briner, TL and Buchanan, JB and Chavis, SE and Chen, SY and Iannuzzi, GL and Kashtelyan, V and Dowling, E and Harbison, JI and Bolger, DJ and Bunting, MF and Dougherty, MR}, title = {Measuring working memory is all fun and games: a four-dimensional spatial game predicts cognitive task performance.}, journal = {Experimental psychology}, volume = {61}, number = {6}, pages = {417-438}, doi = {10.1027/1618-3169/a000262}, pmid = {24962121}, issn = {2190-5142}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Attention ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Reproducibility of Results ; Stroop Test ; *Task Performance and Analysis ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {We developed a novel four-dimensional spatial task called Shapebuilder and used it to predict performance on a wide variety of cognitive tasks. In six experiments, we illustrate that Shapebuilder: (1) Loads on a common factor with complex working memory (WM) span tasks and that it predicts performance on quantitative reasoning tasks and Ravens Progressive Matrices (Experiment 1), (2) Correlates well with traditional complex WM span tasks (Experiment 2), predicts performance on the conditional go/no go task (Experiment 3) and N-back (Experiment 4), and showed weak or nonsignificant correlations with the Attention Networks Task (Experiment 5), and task switching (Experiment 6). Shapebuilder shows that it exhibits minimal skew and kurtosis, and shows good reliability. We argue that Shapebuilder has many advantages over existing measures of WM, including the fact that it is largely language independent, is not prone to ceiling effects, and take less than 6 min to complete on average.}, }
@article {pmid24950485, year = {2014}, author = {deShazo, RD and Smith, R and Skipworth, LB}, title = {Black physicians and the struggle for civil rights: lessons from the Mississippi experience: part 2: their lives and experiences.}, journal = {The American journal of medicine}, volume = {127}, number = {11}, pages = {1033-1040}, doi = {10.1016/j.amjmed.2014.05.042}, pmid = {24950485}, issn = {1555-7162}, mesh = {Black or African American/*history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Civil Rights/*history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Delivery of Health Care/*ethnology/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Mississippi ; Physicians/*history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/supply &amp; distribution ; Racism/*history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; *Social Justice ; }, abstract = {Little information is available on the lives and experiences of black physicians who practiced in the South during the Jim Crow era of legalized segregation. In Mississippi and elsewhere, it is a story of disenfranchised professionals who risked life, limb, and personal success to improve the lot of those they served. In this second article on this topic, we present the stories of some of the physicians who were leaders in the civil rights movement in Mississippi as examples. Because the health disparities they sought to address have, not of their own making, been passed on to the next generation of physicians, the lessons learned from their experience are worthy of consideration.}, }
@article {pmid24948738, year = {2014}, author = {Poelstra, JW and Vijay, N and Bossu, CM and Lantz, H and Ryll, B and Müller, I and Baglione, V and Unneberg, P and Wikelski, M and Grabherr, MG and Wolf, JB}, title = {The genomic landscape underlying phenotypic integrity in the face of gene flow in crows.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {344}, number = {6190}, pages = {1410-1414}, doi = {10.1126/science.1253226}, pmid = {24948738}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*genetics ; Evolution, Molecular ; Feathers/*cytology/enzymology ; *Gene Flow ; *Genetic Variation ; Genomics ; Hybridization, Genetic ; Melanocytes/*enzymology ; Phenotype ; Pigmentation/*genetics ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {The importance, extent, and mode of interspecific gene flow for the evolution of species has long been debated. Characterization of genomic differentiation in a classic example of hybridization between all-black carrion crows and gray-coated hooded crows identified genome-wide introgression extending far beyond the morphological hybrid zone. Gene expression divergence was concentrated in pigmentation genes expressed in gray versus black feather follicles. Only a small number of narrow genomic islands exhibited resistance to gene flow. One prominent genomic region (<2 megabases) harbored 81 of all 82 fixed differences (of 8.4 million single-nucleotide polymorphisms in total) linking genes involved in pigmentation and in visual perception-a genomic signal reflecting color-mediated prezygotic isolation. Thus, localized genomic selection can cause marked heterogeneity in introgression landscapes while maintaining phenotypic divergence.}, }
@article {pmid24948724, year = {2014}, author = {de Knijff, P}, title = {Genetics. How carrion and hooded crows defeat Linnaeus's curse.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {344}, number = {6190}, pages = {1345-1346}, doi = {10.1126/science.1255744}, pmid = {24948724}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*genetics ; Feathers/*cytology ; *Gene Flow ; *Genetic Variation ; Melanocytes/*enzymology ; Pigmentation/*genetics ; }, }
@article {pmid24941459, year = {2014}, author = {deShazo, RD and Smith, R and Skipworth, LB}, title = {Black physicians and the struggle for civil rights: lessons from the Mississippi experience: part 1: the forces for and against change.}, journal = {The American journal of medicine}, volume = {127}, number = {10}, pages = {920-925}, doi = {10.1016/j.amjmed.2014.05.038}, pmid = {24941459}, issn = {1555-7162}, mesh = {Black or African American/*history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Civil Rights/*history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Delivery of Health Care/*ethnology/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Mississippi ; Physicians/*history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/supply &amp; distribution ; Racism/*ethnology/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; *Social Justice ; }, abstract = {The roles of black physicians in the South in the period leading up to the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 have not been fully disclosed. In Mississippi and elsewhere in the South, it is a story of disenfranchised professionals who risked life, limb, and personal success to improve the lot of those they served. This first of 2 articles on the subject provides an overview of the forces for and against the struggle for civil rights and social justice in medicine in the South. We use newly available data from Mississippi as a prime example. An understanding of these forces is essential to an understanding of medical education and medical practice in this period and helps explain why the South remains in last place in most indicators of health today.}, }
@article {pmid24938753, year = {2014}, author = {Gowen, FC and Maley, JM and Cicero, C and Peterson, AT and Faircloth, BC and Warr, TC and McCormack, JE}, title = {Speciation in Western Scrub-Jays, Haldane's rule, and genetic clines in secondary contact.}, journal = {BMC evolutionary biology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {135}, pmid = {24938753}, issn = {1471-2148}, mesh = {Animals ; Cell Nucleus/genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/*genetics ; Female ; Gene Flow ; *Genetic Speciation ; Hybridization, Genetic ; Male ; Mexico ; Microsatellite Repeats ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Passeriformes/classification/*genetics ; Reproductive Isolation ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Haldane's Rule, the tendency for the heterogametic sex to show reduced fertility in hybrid crosses, can obscure the signal of gene flow in mtDNA between species where females are heterogametic. Therefore, it is important when studying speciation and species limits in female-heterogametic species like birds to assess the signature of gene flow in the nuclear genome as well. We studied introgression of microsatellites and mtDNA across a secondary contact zone between coastal and interior lineages of Western Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma californica) to test for a signature of Haldane's Rule: a narrower cline of introgression in mtDNA compared to nuclear markers.<br><br>RESULTS: Our initial phylogeographic analysis revealed that there is only one major area of contact between coastal and interior lineages and identified five genetic clusters with strong spatial structuring: Pacific Slope, Interior US, Edwards Plateau (Texas), Northern Mexico, and Southern Mexico. Consistent with predictions from Haldane's Rule, mtDNA showed a narrower cline than nuclear markers across a transect through the hybrid zone. This result is not being driven by female-biased dispersal because neutral diffusion analysis, which included estimates of sex-specific dispersal rates, also showed less diffusion of mtDNA. Lineage-specific plumage traits were associated with nuclear genetic profiles for individuals in the hybrid zone, indicating that these differences are under genetic control.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study adds to a growing list of studies that support predictions of Haldane's Rule using cline analysis of multiple loci of differing inheritance modes, although alternate hypotheses like selection on different mtDNA types cannot be ruled out. That Haldane's Rule appears to be operating in this system suggests a measure of reproductive isolation between the Pacific Slope and interior lineages. Based on a variety of evidence from the phenotype, ecology, and genetics, we recommend elevating three lineages to species level: A. californica (Pacific Slope); A. woodhouseii (Interior US plus Edwards Plateau plus Northern Mexico); A. sumichrasti (Southern Mexico). The distinctive Edwards Plateau population in Texas, which was monophyletic in mtDNA except for one individual, should be studied in greater detail given habitat threat.}, }
@article {pmid24938087, year = {2016}, author = {Krzeminska, U and Wilson, R and Rahman, S and Song, BK and Gan, HM and Tan, MH and Austin, CM}, title = {The complete mitochondrial genome of the invasive house crow Corvus splendens (Passeriformes: Corvidae).}, journal = {Mitochondrial DNA. Part A, DNA mapping, sequencing, and analysis}, volume = {27}, number = {2}, pages = {974-975}, doi = {10.3109/19401736.2014.926512}, pmid = {24938087}, issn = {2470-1408}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Composition/genetics ; Crows/*genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; Genome, Mitochondrial/*genetics ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; RNA, Transfer/genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA/methods ; }, abstract = {The complete mitochondrial genome of the invasive house crow (Corvus splendens) was sequenced (GenBank accession number: KJ766304) using the MiSeq Personal Sequencer (Illumina, San Diego, CA). The mitochondrial genome is 16,962 bp in length, comprising 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, 2 ribosomal subunit genes and a non-coding control region. The mitogenome structural organization is identical to that of the other Corvus species and related genera. The overall base composition of C. splendens is 30.65% for A, 29.71% for C, 14.84% for G and 24.80% for T, with an AT content of 55.45%. We propose to use full mitochondrial genome to address taxonomic issues and to study the population genetics of crows.}, }
@article {pmid24930732, year = {2014}, author = {Gienapp, P and Merilä, J}, title = {Disentangling plastic and genetic changes in body mass of Siberian jays.}, journal = {Journal of evolutionary biology}, volume = {27}, number = {9}, pages = {1849-1858}, doi = {10.1111/jeb.12438}, pmid = {24930732}, issn = {1420-9101}, mesh = {Animals ; Body Size ; Body Weight/*genetics ; Climate Change ; Female ; Finland ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Models, Genetic ; Passeriformes/*genetics/physiology ; Phenotype ; Quantitative Trait, Heritable ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {Spatial and temporal phenotypic differentiation in mean body size is of commonplace occurrence, but the underlying causes remain often unclear: both genetic differentiation in response to selection (or drift) and environmentally induced plasticity can create similar phenotypic patterns. Studying changes in body mass in Siberian jays (Perisoreus infaustus) over three decades, we discovered that mean body mass declined drastically (ca. 10%) over the first two decades, but increased markedly thereafter back to almost the initial level. Quantitative genetic analyses revealed that although body mass was heritable (h(2) = 0.46), the pronounced temporal decrease in body mass was mainly a product of phenotypic plasticity. However, a concomitant and statistically significant decrease in predicted breeding values suggests a genetic component to this change. The subsequent increase in mean body mass was indicated to be entirely due to plasticity. Selection on body mass was estimated to be too weak to fully account for the observed genetic decline in body mass, but bias in selection differential estimates due to environmental covariance between body mass and fitness is possible. Hence, the observed body mass changes appear to be driven mainly by phenotypic plasticity. Although we were not able to identify the ecological driver of the observed plastic changes, the results highlight the utility of quantitative genetic approaches in disentangling genetic and phenotypic changes in natural populations.}, }
@article {pmid24920476, year = {2014}, author = {Taylor, AH and Cheke, LG and Waismeyer, A and Meltzoff, AN and Miller, R and Gopnik, A and Clayton, NS and Gray, RD}, title = {Of babies and birds: complex tool behaviours are not sufficient for the evolution of the ability to create a novel causal intervention.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {281}, number = {1787}, pages = {}, pmid = {24920476}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Conditioning, Operant ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; *Learning ; Male ; New Caledonia ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Humans are capable of simply observing a correlation between cause and effect, and then producing a novel behavioural pattern in order to recreate the same outcome. However, it is unclear how the ability to create such causal interventions evolved. Here, we show that while 24-month-old children can produce an effective, novel action after observing a correlation, tool-making New Caledonian crows cannot. These results suggest that complex tool behaviours are not sufficient for the evolution of this ability, and that causal interventions can be cognitively and evolutionarily disassociated from other types of causal understanding.}, }
@article {pmid24918951, year = {2014}, author = {Margiotta, G and Gabbrielli, M and Carnevali, E and Alberti, T and Carlini, L and Lancia, M and Bacci, M}, title = {Genetic identification by using short tandem repeats analysis in a case of suicide by self-incineration: a case report.}, journal = {The American journal of forensic medicine and pathology}, volume = {35}, number = {3}, pages = {172-175}, doi = {10.1097/PAF.0000000000000101}, pmid = {24918951}, issn = {1533-404X}, mesh = {Burns/*pathology ; *DNA Fingerprinting ; Fires ; Humans ; Male ; *Microsatellite Repeats ; Middle Aged ; Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction ; *Suicide ; }, abstract = {Suicide by self-incineration is an uncommon method of suicide in the western world in contrast with Asian countries, where this type of suicide is more common. If there is a lack of witnesses, genetic analysis for identification is mandatory, especially when anthropologic or dental identification is barely significant.The authors report a case of self-incineration of a 55-year-old white man, which occurred near Siena, Tuscany, Italy.The recovered bones were classified according to the Crow-Glassman scale and assigned to category 5 (the highest extent of combustion according to this scale). Therefore, because of the extent of the bone damage, analyzing the residual soft tissue around the pelvic bones was the only way to reach a genetic identification.The authors report this case to emphasize that even if the highest level of burn injury to human body is reached, an accurate analysis of the findings may lead to a genetic identification. In these cases, an efficient cooperation among police, fire experts, and forensics is necessary, especially because it is the only way to determine if the modality of death was accidental, suicidal, or homicidal.}, }
@article {pmid24918939, year = {2014}, author = {Korb, S and With, S and Niedenthal, P and Kaiser, S and Grandjean, D}, title = {The perception and mimicry of facial movements predict judgments of smile authenticity.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {6}, pages = {e99194}, pmid = {24918939}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adult ; *Facial Expression ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Smiling ; *Social Perception ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The mechanisms through which people perceive different types of smiles and judge their authenticity remain unclear. Here, 19 different types of smiles were created based on the Facial Action Coding System (FACS), using highly controlled, dynamic avatar faces. Participants observed short videos of smiles while their facial mimicry was measured with electromyography (EMG) over four facial muscles. Smile authenticity was judged after each trial. Avatar attractiveness was judged once in response to each avatar's neutral face. Results suggest that, in contrast to most earlier work using static pictures as stimuli, participants relied less on the Duchenne marker (the presence of crow's feet wrinkles around the eyes) in their judgments of authenticity. Furthermore, mimicry of smiles occurred in the Zygomaticus Major, Orbicularis Oculi, and Corrugator muscles. Consistent with theories of embodied cognition, activity in these muscles predicted authenticity judgments, suggesting that facial mimicry influences the perception of smiles. However, no significant mediation effect of facial mimicry was found. Avatar attractiveness did not predict authenticity judgments or mimicry patterns.}, }
@article {pmid24918502, year = {2014}, author = {Murphy, CF and Zachi, EC and Roque, DT and Ventura, DS and Schochat, E}, title = {Influence of memory, attention, IQ and age on auditory temporal processing tests: preliminary study.}, journal = {CoDAS}, volume = {26}, number = {2}, pages = {105-111}, doi = {10.1590/2317-1782/2014494in}, pmid = {24918502}, issn = {2317-1782}, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation/methods ; Attention/*physiology ; Child ; Female ; Hearing Tests/methods ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Memory/*physiology ; Speech Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To investigate the existence of correlations between the performance of children in auditory temporal tests (Frequency Pattern and Gaps in Noise--GIN) and IQ, attention, memory and age measurements.<br><br>METHOD: Fifteen typically developing individuals between the ages of 7 to 12 years and normal hearing participated in the study. Auditory temporal processing tests (GIN and Frequency Pattern), as well as a Memory test (Digit Span), Attention tests (auditory and visual modality) and intelligence tests (RAVEN test of Progressive Matrices) were applied.<br><br>RESULTS: Significant and positive correlation between the Frequency Pattern test and age variable were found, which was considered good (p<0.01, 75.6%). There were no significant correlations between the GIN test and the variables tested.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Auditory temporal skills seem to be influenced by different factors: while the performance in temporal ordering skill seems to be influenced by maturational processes, the performance in temporal resolution was not influenced by any of the aspects investigated.}, }
@article {pmid24916150, year = {2014}, author = {Molina-Morales, M and Martínez, JG and Martín-Gálvez, D and Dawson, DA and Burke, T and Avilés, JM}, title = {Cuckoo hosts shift from accepting to rejecting parasitic eggs across their lifetime.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {68}, number = {10}, pages = {3020-3029}, doi = {10.1111/evo.12471}, pmid = {24916150}, issn = {1558-5646}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Female ; Male ; *Nesting Behavior ; *Ovum ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; }, abstract = {One of the best-known outcomes of coevolution between species is the rejection of mimetic parasite eggs by avian hosts, which has evolved to reduce costly cuckoo parasitism. How this behavioral adaptation varies along the life of individual hosts remains poorly understood. Here, we identify for the first time, lifetime patterns of egg rejection in a parasitized long-lived bird, the magpie Pica pica and show that, during the years they were studied, some females accept, others reject, and some others modify their response to model eggs, in all cases switching from acceptance to rejection. Females tested in their first breeding attempt always accepted the model egg, even those individuals whose mothers were egg rejecters. A longitudinal analysis showed that the probability of egg rejection increased with the relative age of the female, but was not related to the risk of parasitism in the population. We conclude that ontogeny plays a fundamental role in the process leading to egg rejection in magpies.}, }
@article {pmid24914534, year = {2014}, author = {Orłowski, G and Kasprzykowski, Z and Dobicki, W and Pokorny, P and Wuczyński, A and Polechoński, R and Mazgajski, TD}, title = {Residues of chromium, nickel, cadmium and lead in Rook Corvus frugilegus eggshells from urban and rural areas of Poland.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {490}, number = {}, pages = {1057-1064}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.05.105}, pmid = {24914534}, issn = {1879-1026}, mesh = {Cadmium/analysis ; Chromium/analysis ; *Environmental Monitoring ; Environmental Pollutants/*analysis ; Environmental Pollution/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Metals, Heavy/*analysis ; Nickel/analysis ; Ovum/*chemistry ; Poland ; }, abstract = {We examined the concentrations of chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) in Rook Corvus frugilegus eggshells from 43 rookeries situated in rural and urban areas of western (=intensive agriculture) and eastern (=extensive agriculture) Poland. We found small ranges in the overall level of Cr (the difference between the extreme values was 1.8-fold; range of concentrations=5.21-9.40 Cr ppm), Ni (3.5-fold; 1.15-4.07 Ni ppm), and Cd (2.6-fold; 0.34-0.91 Cd ppm), whereas concentrations of Pb varied markedly, i.e. 6.7-fold between extreme values (1.71-11.53 Pb ppm). Eggshell levels of these four elements did not differ between rural rookeries from western and eastern Poland, but eggshells from rookeries in large/industrial cities had significantly higher concentrations of Cr, Ni and Pb than those from small towns and villages. Our study suggests that female Rooks exhibited an apparent variation in the intensity of trace metal bioaccumulation in their eggshells, that rapid site-dependent bioaccumulation of Cu, Cr, Ni and Pb occurs as a result of the pollution gradient (rural<urban), and that Cd levels are probably regulated physiologically, even though these were relatively high, which could be treated as an overall proxy of a heavy Cd load in the soil environment.}, }
@article {pmid24910870, year = {2014}, author = {Kim, M and Yang, H and Kim, H and Jung, H and Jung, H}, title = {Novel cosmetic patches for wrinkle improvement: retinyl retinoate- and ascorbic acid-loaded dissolving microneedles.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {36}, number = {3}, pages = {207-212}, doi = {10.1111/ics.12115}, pmid = {24910870}, issn = {1468-2494}, mesh = {Adult ; Ascorbic Acid/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; Asian People ; Cosmetics/administration &amp; dosage/chemistry/*pharmacology ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Retinoids/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; Retinyl Esters ; Skin Absorption ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Transdermal Patch/standards ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate wrinkle improvement and safety of a novel cosmetic dissolving microneedle patches loaded with two active compounds with different hydrophilicities, namely ascorbic acid and retinyl retinoate.<br><br>METHODS: Clinical studies were performed on 24 Korean women for 12 weeks. Patients in group A were treated with retinyl retinoate-loaded dissolving microneedle patches on the left eye crow's feet area, and patients in group B were treated with ascorbic acidloaded patches on the right eye crow's feet area twice daily. Wrinkle improvement was evaluated by skin Visiometer SV 600.<br><br>RESULTS: Both the retinyl retinoate- and ascorbic acid-loaded dissolving microneedle patches demonstrated statistically significant differences in all Visiometer R-values (P < 0.05). In particular, highly significant differences were shown at R1 (skin roughness) and R5 (arithmetic average roughness) (P < 0.001). Also, there were no side effects such as allergies or irritant contact dermatitis.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Retinyl retinoate and ascorbic acid were successfully loaded into dissolving microneedles and used to produce novel cosmetic patches. These novel patches can be used efficiently in cosmetics given their patient usability, safety and effectiveness in wrinkle improvement.}, }
@article {pmid24910278, year = {2014}, author = {Beer, KR and Julius, H and Dunn, M and Wilson, F}, title = {Remodeling of periorbital, temporal, glabellar, and crow's feet areas with hyaluronic acid and botulinum toxin.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {143-150}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.12082}, pmid = {24910278}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Dermatologic Agents/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Drug Therapy, Combination/adverse effects ; Eye ; Female ; Forehead ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Patient Satisfaction ; Pilot Projects ; Rejuvenation/psychology ; Self Concept ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {Botulinum toxins are currently used to reduce facial muscle activity, and hyaluronic acid is used to correct volume loss. This study evaluates the combination of abobotulinumtoxinA (Dysport) and hyaluronic acid 20 mg/mL (Perlane) for rejuvenating specific areas of the upper face. Subjects (n = 20) with mild to moderate temporal volume loss as well as glabellar and/or periorbital rhytids were enrolled in this single-center, open-label, nonrandomized pilot study. Subjects were randomly assigned a number and treated with hyaluronic acid, divided between temporal and glabellar region, and abobotulinumtoxinA in the periorbital and glabellar region. A 1-month touch-up was given if needed. Subjects were evaluated by the investigator, and each subject completed a questionnaire at baseline and at 3, 6, and 9 months after treatment. For glabellar lines and crow's feet, median grades decreased from baseline at 1 month and at 3 months, but returned to baseline values at 6 months. For temporal assessments, the median grade decreased from baseline at 1, 3, and 6 months and returned to baseline at 9 months. Similar trends were observed in subjects' perceived age, perceived social and professional limitations, and desire to alter their facial appearance. Among subjects previously treated with botulinum toxin alone, 64% rated the combination treatment said "superior." Adverse effects were mild and transient. The combination of abobotulinumtoxinA and hyaluronic acid appears to rejuvenate the periorbital, temporal, glabellar, and crow's feet areas with minimal adverse effects.}, }
@article {pmid24899702, year = {2014}, author = {Veit, L and Hartmann, K and Nieder, A}, title = {Neuronal correlates of visual working memory in the corvid endbrain.}, journal = {The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience}, volume = {34}, number = {23}, pages = {7778-7786}, pmid = {24899702}, issn = {1529-2401}, mesh = {Action Potentials/*physiology ; Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Crows ; Female ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Neurons/*physiology ; Photic Stimulation ; ROC Curve ; Reaction Time/physiology ; Telencephalon/*cytology/physiology ; }, abstract = {The concept of working memory is key to cognitive functioning. Working memory encompasses the capacity to retain immediately past information, to process this information, and to use it to guide goal-directed behavior. Corvid songbirds are renowned for their high-level cognitive capabilities, but where and how visual information is temporarily retained by neurons in the avian brain in a behaviorally relevant way remains poorly understood. We trained four carrion crows (Corvus corone) on versions of a delayed match-to-sample task that required the crows to remember a visual stimulus for later comparison. While the crows performed the task, we recorded the activity of single neurons in the nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL), a pallial association area of the avian endbrain. We show that many NCL neurons encode information about visual stimuli and temporarily maintain this information after the stimulus disappeared by sustained delay activity. Selective delay activity allows the birds to hold relevant information in memory and correlates with discrimination behavior. This suggests that sustained activity of NCL neurons is a neuronal correlate of visual working memory in the corvid brain and serves to bridge temporal gaps, thereby offering a workspace for processing immediately past visual information.}, }
@article {pmid24893217, year = {2014}, author = {Goto, K and Bond, AB and Burks, M and Kamil, AC}, title = {Visual search and attention in blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata): Associative cuing and sequential priming.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Animal learning and cognition}, volume = {40}, number = {2}, pages = {185-194}, pmid = {24893217}, issn = {2329-8464}, support = {R01 MH068426/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH069893/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; MH068426/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; MH069893/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Attention/*physiology ; Birds/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Conditioning, Operant ; *Cues ; Fixation, Ocular/*physiology ; Photic Stimulation ; Reaction Time/physiology ; Serial Learning/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Visual search for complex natural targets requires focal attention, either cued by predictive stimulus associations or primed by a representation of the most recently detected target. Because both processes can focus visual attention, cuing and priming were compared in an operant search task to evaluate their relative impacts on performance and to determine the nature of their interaction in combined treatments. Blue jays were trained to search for pairs of alternative targets among distractors. Informative or ambiguous color cues were provided before each trial, and targets were presented either in homogeneous blocked sequences or in constrained random order. Initial task acquisition was facilitated by priming in general, but was significantly retarded when targets were both cued and primed, indicating that the two processes interfered with each other during training. At asymptote, attentional effects were manifested mainly in inhibition, increasing latency in miscued trials and decreasing accuracy on primed trials following an unexpected target switch. A combination of cuing and priming was found to interfere with performance in such unexpected trials, apparently a result of the limited capacity of working memory. Because the ecological factors that promote priming or cuing are rather disparate, it is not clear whether they ever simultaneously contribute to natural predatory search.}, }
@article {pmid24889656, year = {2014}, author = {Shaw, RC and Clayton, NS}, title = {Pilfering Eurasian jays use visual and acoustic information to locate caches.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {17}, number = {6}, pages = {1281-1288}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-014-0763-y}, pmid = {24889656}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Auditory Perception ; Feeding Behavior/*psychology ; Female ; Male ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; *Spatial Memory ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Pilfering corvids use observational spatial memory to accurately locate caches that they have seen another individual make. Accordingly, many corvid cache-protection strategies limit the transfer of visual information to potential thieves. Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius) employ strategies that reduce the amount of visual and auditory information that is available to competitors. Here, we test whether or not the jays recall and use both visual and auditory information when pilfering other birds' caches. When jays had no visual or acoustic information about cache locations, the proportion of available caches that they found did not differ from the proportion expected if jays were searching at random. By contrast, after observing and listening to a conspecific caching in gravel or sand, jays located a greater proportion of caches, searched more frequently in the correct substrate type and searched in fewer empty locations to find the first cache than expected. After only listening to caching in gravel and sand, jays also found a larger proportion of caches and searched in the substrate type where they had heard caching take place more frequently than expected. These experiments demonstrate that Eurasian jays possess observational spatial memory and indicate that pilfering jays may gain information about cache location merely by listening to caching. This is the first evidence that a corvid may use recalled acoustic information to locate and pilfer caches.}, }
@article {pmid24885177, year = {2014}, author = {Lam, BY and Raine, A and Lee, TM}, title = {The relationship between neurocognition and symptomatology in people with schizophrenia: social cognition as the mediator.}, journal = {BMC psychiatry}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {138}, pmid = {24885177}, issn = {1471-244X}, mesh = {Adult ; China ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Schizophrenia, Paranoid/*diagnosis/*psychology ; *Social Behavior ; United States ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The relationship between neurocognition and symptomatology in people with schizophrenia has been established. The present study examined whether social cognition could mediate this relationship.<br><br>METHODS: There were 119 participants (58 people with paranoid schizophrenia and 61 healthy controls) participated in this study. Neurocognition was assessed by Raven's Progressive Matrices Test, the Judgment of Line Orientation Test, and the Tower of London Test. Psychiatric symptoms in people with schizophrenia were assessed by the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale. Social cognition was measured by the Faux Pas Test, the "Reading the Mind in the Eyes" Test, and the Interpersonal Reactivity Index.<br><br>RESULTS: Results were consistent with previous findings that neurocognition and social cognition were impaired in the clinical participants. A novel observation is that social cognition significantly mediated the relationship between neurocognition and symptomatology.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that neurocognitive deficits predispose people with schizophrenia to worse psychiatric symptoms through the impairment of social cognition. Findings of the present study provide important insight into a functional model of schizophrenia that could guide the development of cost-effective interventions for people with schizophrenia.}, }
@article {pmid24881811, year = {2014}, author = {Lucchini, RG and Guazzetti, S and Zoni, S and Benedetti, C and Fedrighi, C and Peli, M and Donna, F and Bontempi, E and Borgese, L and Micheletti, S and Ferri, R and Marchetti, S and Smith, DR}, title = {Neurofunctional dopaminergic impairment in elderly after lifetime exposure to manganese.}, journal = {Neurotoxicology}, volume = {45}, number = {}, pages = {309-317}, pmid = {24881811}, issn = {1872-9711}, support = {P30 ES023515/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 ES018990/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 ES019222/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; R01ES019222/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Biomarkers/analysis ; Cognition/drug effects ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Female ; Humans ; Inhalation Exposure/*analysis ; Iron ; Italy ; Lead/blood ; Male ; Manganese/blood/urine ; Manganese Poisoning/*psychology ; Middle Aged ; Motor Activity/drug effects ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Olfactory Perception/drug effects ; Soil Pollutants/poisoning ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Manganese (Mn) is an essential element that can become neurotoxic through various exposure windows over the lifespan. While there is clear evidence of Mn neurotoxicity in pediatric and adult occupational populations, little is known about effects in the elderly who may exhibit enhanced susceptibilities due to compromised physiology compared to younger adults. In the province of Brescia, Italy, the Valcamonica area has been the site of three ferroalloy plants operating from 1902 to 2001. Metal emissions of Mn and to a lesser extent lead (Pb) have impacted the surrounding environment, where a high prevalence of Parkinsonism was previously observed. This study aimed to assess neurocognitive and motor functions in healthy elderly subjects residing for most of their lifetime in Valcamonica or in a reference area unimpacted by ferroalloy plant activity.<br><br>METHODS: Subjects were enrolled for extensive neurobehavioral assessment of motor, cognitive and sensory functions. Exposure was assessed with 24h personal air sampling for PM10 airborne particles, surface soil and tap water measurement at individual households, Mn levels in blood and urine and Pb in blood. Dose-response relationships between exposure indicators and biomarkers and health outcomes were analyzed with generalized (linear and logistic) additive models (GAM).<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 255 subjects (55% women) were examined; most (52.9%) were within the 65-70 years age class. Average airborne Mn was 26.41 ng/m(3) (median 18.42) in Valcamonica and 20.96 ng/m(3) (median 17.62) in the reference area. Average Mn in surface soil was 1026 ppm (median 923) in Valcamonica and 421 ppm (median 410) in the reference area. Manganese in drinking water was below the LDL of 1 &#x3bc;g/L. The GAM analysis showed significant association between airborne Mn (p=0.0237) and the motor coordination tests of the Luria Nebraska Neuropsychological Battery. The calculation of the Benchmark Dose using this dose-response relationship yielded a lower level confidence interval of 22.7 ng/m(3) (median 26.4). For the odor identification score of the Sniffin Stick test, an association was observed with soil Mn (p=0.0006) and with a significant interaction with blood Pb (p=0.0856). Significant dose-responses resulted also for the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices with the distance from exposure point source (p=0.0025) and Mn in soil (p=0.09), and for the Trail Making test, with urinary Mn (p=0.0074). Serum prolactin (PRL) levels were associated with air (p=0.061) and urinary (p=0.003) Mn, and with blood Pb (p=0.0303). In most of these associations age played a significant role as an effect modifier.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Lifelong exposure to Mn was significantly associated with changes in odor discrimination, motor coordination, cognitive abilities and serum PRL levels. These effects are consistent with the hypothesis of a specific mechanism of toxicity of Mn on the dopaminergic system. Lead co-exposure, even at very low levels, can further enhance Mn toxicity.}, }
@article {pmid24859099, year = {2014}, author = {Douglas, V and Chan, HM and Wesche, S and Dickson, C and Kassi, N and Netro, L and Williams, M}, title = {Reconciling traditional knowledge, food security, and climate change: experience from Old Crow, YT, Canada.}, journal = {Progress in community health partnerships : research, education, and action}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {21-27}, doi = {10.1353/cpr.2014.0007}, pmid = {24859099}, issn = {1557-0541}, mesh = {Arctic Regions ; *Climate Change ; Community-Based Participatory Research/methods/organization &amp; administration ; Culture ; Feeding Behavior/*ethnology ; Focus Groups ; Food Preservation/economics/methods ; Food Storage/economics/methods ; Food Supply/economics/*methods ; Gardening/*education/methods ; Humans ; Indians, North American/*education ; Nutritional Sciences/*education ; Transportation/economics/methods ; Yukon Territory ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Because of a lack of transportation infrastructure, Old Crow has the highest food costs and greatest reliance on traditional food species for sustenance of any community in Canada's Yukon Territory. Environmental, cultural, and economic change are driving increased perception of food insecurity in Old Crow.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To address community concerns regarding food security and supply in Old Crow and develop adaptation strategies to ameliorate their impact on the community.<br><br>METHODS: A community adaptation workshop was held on October 13, 2009, in which representatives of different stakeholders in the community discussed a variety of food security issues facing Old Crow and how they could be dealt with. Workshop data were analyzed using keyword, subject, and narrative analysis techniques to determine community priorities in food security and adaptation.<br><br>RESULTS: Community concern is high and favored adaptation options include agriculture, improved food storage, and conservation through increased traditional education. These results were presented to the community for review and revision, after which the Vuntut Gwitchin Government will integrate them into its ongoing adaptation planning measures.}, }
@article {pmid24858538, year = {2014}, author = {Liu, C and Yao, R and Wang, Z and Zhou, R}, title = {N450 as a candidate neural marker for interference control deficits in children with learning disabilities.}, journal = {International journal of psychophysiology : official journal of the International Organization of Psychophysiology}, volume = {93}, number = {1}, pages = {70-77}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2014.05.007}, pmid = {24858538}, issn = {1872-7697}, mesh = {Attention/*physiology ; Child ; Electroencephalography/*methods ; Evoked Potentials/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Learning Disabilities/*psychology ; Male ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; Reaction Time/physiology ; Stroop Test ; }, abstract = {A deficit in the ability to suppress irrelevant or interfering stimuli may account for a variety of dysfunctional behaviors in children with learning disabilities (LD). However, neural correlates underlying this deficit in interference control in the LD are still unknown. In this study, we recruited a group of children with LD (age: 10.78 ± 0.52) along with an age-matched control group (age: 10.74 ± 0.86) and asked them to perform a numerical Stroop task. During the task, we used electroencephalogram (EEG) to record their event-related potentials (ERPs). We further evaluated performance of these children on a battery of tests, including the Academic Adaptability Test (AAT), an adapted Chinese version of Pupil Rating Scale (PRS), and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM). Children's scores on recent math and Chinese exams were also obtained. Results showed that: 1) children with LD had worse performance in the incongruent condition of the numerical Stroop task suggesting that children with LD had interference control deficits but not basic numerical cognition; 2) children with LD had larger N450 effects on the frontal and posterior sites, but did not show any difference in early ERP components, suggesting that the behavioral difference was related with interference control rather than early visual perception processing; and 3) N450 effects were correlated with accuracy in the numerical Stroop task, performance in Raven's SPM, as well as school math performance. These results suggest that N450 can serve as a potential electrophysiology marker for identifying and potentially, providing targeted intervention for children with LD.}, }
@article {pmid24858374, year = {2014}, author = {Ohkubo, T and Hirota, K and Murase, D and Adachi, H and Nozawa-Takeda, T and Sugita, S}, title = {Avian blood induced intranuclear translocation of STAT3 via the chicken leptin receptor.}, journal = {Comparative biochemistry and physiology. Part B, Biochemistry &amp; molecular biology}, volume = {174}, number = {}, pages = {9-14}, doi = {10.1016/j.cbpb.2014.05.001}, pmid = {24858374}, issn = {1879-1107}, mesh = {Active Transport, Cell Nucleus ; Animals ; Avian Proteins/blood/*metabolism ; CHO Cells ; Cell Nucleus/*metabolism ; Chickens ; Cricetulus ; Crows ; Green Fluorescent Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Phosphorylation ; Rats, Wistar ; Receptors, Leptin/blood/*metabolism ; Recombinant Fusion Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; STAT3 Transcription Factor/blood/genetics/*metabolism ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Leptin is a multi-functional adipokine in vertebrates. The leptin gene and protein are found in many vertebrates; however, the existence of leptin in birds remains controversial. Here we detected leptin-like activity in avian blood using chicken leptin receptor (chLEPR) and green fluorescent protein (GFP)-fused chicken signal transducer and activator of transcription (chSTAT3) co-expressed in CHO-K1 cells (CHO-chLEPR/STAT3). We validated that rat serum specifically induces intranuclear migration of GFP-fused chSTAT3 (GFP-chSTAT3) in CHO-chLEPR/STAT3 cells, but not in CHO-K1 cells expressing GFP-STAT3 (CHO-chSTAT3) before testing the avian blood samples. Blood of chickens (Gallus gallus), wild jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos), and carrion crows (Corvus corone) accumulated the GFP signal into nuclei, and frequency varied in each blood sample. Western blotting showed that chicken and crow blood samples specifically phosphorylated GFP-chSTAT3 in the chLEPR-transfected cells. These results indicate that avian blood contains a leptin-like molecule that specifically binds to LEPR, suggesting that the leptin system is conserved across all vertebrate classes.}, }
@article {pmid24843936, year = {2013}, author = {Campbell, R and Thiemann, TC and Lemenager, D and Reisen, WK}, title = {Host-selection patterns of Culex tarsalis (Diptera: Culicidae) determine the spatial heterogeneity of West Nile virus enzootic activity in northern California.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {50}, number = {6}, pages = {1303-1309}, doi = {10.1603/me13089}, pmid = {24843936}, issn = {0022-2585}, support = {R01-AI65507/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animal Distribution ; Animals ; Birds/physiology ; California ; Culex/*physiology/*virology ; Feeding Behavior ; Insect Vectors/*physiology/*virology ; Mammals/physiology ; West Nile Fever/*transmission ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification/physiology ; }, abstract = {The spatial heterogeneity of West Nile virus (WNV) activity in Sutter County, CA, as measured by mosquito infection rates, was associated with spatial variation in the prevalence of Culex blood feeding on competent passeriform hosts. Overall, 42 vertebrate host species (31 avian, 11 mammal) were identified from 601 blood-fed Culex tarsalis Coquillett and 151 blood-fed Culex pipiens L. complex females using sequences of the cytochrome c oxidase I gene and the Barcode of Life Data Systems database. WNV infection rates were low at sites where the primary vector, Cx. tarsalis, fed frequently on domestic cattle or incompetent galliform birds and high when females fed frequently on American Robins, American Crows, and Yellow-billed Magpies. Opportunistic host selection by Cx. tarsalis in combination with spatial variation in the presence of highly competent corvid hosts appeared to determine the distribution of WNV activity in rural Sutter County, CA.}, }
@article {pmid24833451, year = {2014}, author = {Javate, RM and Grantoza, CL and Buyucan, KF}, title = {Use of an imaging device after nonablative radiofrequency (Pellevé): treatment of periorbital rhytids.}, journal = {Ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {30}, number = {6}, pages = {499-503}, doi = {10.1097/IOP.0000000000000156}, pmid = {24833451}, issn = {1537-2677}, mesh = {Cohort Studies ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; *Dermatologic Surgical Procedures ; Diagnostic Imaging/*instrumentation ; Facial Dermatoses/diagnosis/*radiotherapy ; Humans ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; Orbit ; Prospective Studies ; Radiofrequency Therapy ; Rhytidoplasty/instrumentation/*methods ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To use the Canfield Reveal imager in objective photo documentation of the effect of nonablative radiofrequency (Pellevé) treatment on periorbital rhytids.<br><br>METHODS: This is a prospective cohort study. Twelve patients underwent 1 to 2 sessions of nonablative radiofrequency (Pellev&#xe9;) treatment over the periorbital region.<br><br>INCLUSION CRITERIA: aged 30 to 60 years old, minimal tissue laxity, and shallow wrinkle development. Standardized reproducible photographs (left, frontal, right views) with use of the Canfield Reveal imager's superimposition feature were taken of each patient prior, immediately after application, and on 2nd, 4th, 6th, and 8th week follow up. Brow elevation was measured in the pre- and posttreatment photographs with the use of the Canfield Reveal imager and rendered the photographs in 3-dimensional images.<br><br>RESULTS: Comparison of the pre- and posttreatment photographs taken via the Canfield Reveal imager showed reduction in the wrinkles, smoothening, and tightening of the eyelid and the periorbital tissue. Patients exhibited an average increase of 2.05 mm (p<0.001) of eyebrow lift and 0.98 mm (p<0.001) of superior eyelid crease elevation immediately after treatment. Eight weeks after, average brow elevation was measured at 3.52 mm (p<0.001) and crease elevation at 1.84 mm (p<0.001). The 3-dimensional imaging feature rendered in normal skin tone, and shades of gray showed softening of fine lines and crow's feet after treatment. Furthermore, it also rendered in color relief that highlighted the changes seen with depressions noted to decrease after treatment.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The Canfield Reveal imager can be used in the objective photodocumentation of subtle and modest effects of nonablative radiofrequency (Pellev&#xe9;) treatment to the periorbital region.}, }
@article {pmid24825344, year = {2014}, author = {Krieger, N and Chen, JT and Coull, BA and Beckfield, J and Kiang, MV and Waterman, PD}, title = {Jim Crow and premature mortality among the US Black and White population, 1960-2009: an age-period-cohort analysis.}, journal = {Epidemiology (Cambridge, Mass.)}, volume = {25}, number = {4}, pages = {494-504}, pmid = {24825344}, issn = {1531-5487}, support = {R21 CA168470/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; 1R21CA168470/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Black or African American/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Aged ; Cohort Studies ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Mortality, Premature/history ; *Racism/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; United States/epidemiology ; White People/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Scant research has analyzed the health impact of abolition of Jim Crow (ie, legal racial discrimination overturned by the US 1964 Civil Rights Act).<br><br>METHODS: We used hierarchical age-period-cohort models to analyze US national black and white premature mortality rates (death before 65 years of age) in 1960-2009.<br><br>RESULTS: Within a context of declining US black and white premature mortality rates and a persistent 2-fold excess black risk of premature mortality in both the Jim Crow and non-Jim Crow states, analyses including random period, cohort, state, and county effects and fixed county income effects found that, within the black population, the largest Jim Crow-by-period interaction occurred in 1960-1964 (mortality rate ratio [MRR] = 1.15 [95% confidence interval = 1.09-1.22), yielding the largest overall period-specific Jim Crow effect MRR of 1.27, with no such interactions subsequently observed. Furthermore, the most elevated Jim Crow-by-cohort effects occurred for birth cohorts from 1901 through 1945 (MRR range = 1.05-1.11), translating to the largest overall cohort-specific Jim Crow effect MRRs for the 1921-1945 birth cohorts (MRR ~ 1.2), with no such interactions subsequently observed. No such interactions between Jim Crow and either period or cohort occurred among the white population.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Together, the study results offer compelling evidence of the enduring impact of both Jim Crow and its abolition on premature mortality among the US black population, although insufficient to eliminate the persistent 2-fold black excess risk evident in both the Jim Crow and non-Jim Crow states from 1960 to 2009.}, }
@article {pmid24818237, year = {2014}, author = {Boonekamp, JJ and Salomons, M and Bouwhuis, S and Dijkstra, C and Verhulst, S}, title = {Reproductive effort accelerates actuarial senescence in wild birds: an experimental study.}, journal = {Ecology letters}, volume = {17}, number = {5}, pages = {599-605}, doi = {10.1111/ele.12263}, pmid = {24818237}, issn = {1461-0248}, mesh = {Aging ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Clutch Size ; *Longevity ; Reproduction/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Optimality theories of ageing predict that the balance between reproductive effort and somatic maintenance determines the rate of ageing. Laboratory studies find that increased reproductive effort shortens lifespan, but through increased short-term mortality rather than ageing. In contrast, high fecundity in early life is associated with accelerated senescence in free-living vertebrates, but these studies are non-experimental. We performed lifelong brood size manipulation in free-living jackdaws. Actuarial senescence--the increase in mortality rate with age--was threefold higher in birds rearing enlarged- compared to reduced broods, confirming a key prediction of the optimality theory of ageing. Our findings contrast with the results of single-year brood size manipulation studies carried out in many species, in which there was no overall discernible manipulation effect on mortality. We suggest that our and previous findings are in agreement with predictions based on the reliability theory of ageing and propose further tests of this proposition.}, }
@article {pmid24816373, year = {2014}, author = {Ayutyanont, N and Langbaum, JB and Hendrix, SB and Chen, K and Fleisher, AS and Friesenhahn, M and Ward, M and Aguirre, C and Acosta-Baena, N and Madrigal, L and Muñoz, C and Tirado, V and Moreno, S and Tariot, PN and Lopera, F and Reiman, EM}, title = {The Alzheimer's prevention initiative composite cognitive test score: sample size estimates for the evaluation of preclinical Alzheimer's disease treatments in presenilin 1 E280A mutation carriers.}, journal = {The Journal of clinical psychiatry}, volume = {75}, number = {6}, pages = {652-660}, pmid = {24816373}, issn = {1555-2101}, support = {R01 AG055444/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AG031581/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; P30AG19610/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; RF1 AG041705/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; P30 AG019610/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; *Alleles ; Alzheimer Disease/diagnosis/*genetics/*prevention &amp; control/psychology ; *Chromosome Aberrations ; Cohort Studies ; *DNA Mutational Analysis ; Disease Progression ; Genes, Dominant/*genetics ; *Genetic Carrier Screening ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease/genetics ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Presenilin-1/*genetics ; Psychometrics/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To identify a cognitive composite that is sensitive to tracking preclinical Alzheimer's disease decline to be used as a primary end point in treatment trials.<br><br>METHOD: We capitalized on longitudinal data collected from 1995 to 2010 from cognitively unimpaired presenilin 1 (PSEN1) E280A mutation carriers from the world's largest known early-onset autosomal dominant Alzheimer's disease kindred to identify a composite cognitive test with the greatest statistical power to track preclinical Alzheimer's disease decline and estimate the number of carriers age 30 years and older needed to detect a treatment effect in the Alzheimer's Prevention Initiative's (API) preclinical Alzheimer's disease treatment trial. The mean-to-standard-deviation ratios (MSDRs) of change over time were calculated in a search for the optimal combination of 1 to 7 cognitive tests/subtests drawn from the neuropsychological test battery in cognitively unimpaired mutation carriers during a 2- and 5-year follow-up period (n = 78 and 57), using data from noncarriers (n = 31 and 56) during the same time period to correct for aging and practice effects. Combinations that performed well were then evaluated for robustness across follow-up years, occurrence of selected items within top-performing combinations, and representation of relevant cognitive domains.<br><br>RESULTS: The optimal test combination included Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease (CERAD) Word List Recall, CERAD Boston Naming Test (high frequency items), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) Orientation to Time, CERAD Constructional Praxis, and Raven's Progressive Matrices (Set A), with an MSDR of 1.62. This composite is more sensitive than using either the CERAD Word List Recall (MSDR = 0.38) or the entire CERAD-Col battery (MSDR = 0.76). A sample size of 75 cognitively normal PSEN1 E280A mutation carriers aged 30 years and older per treatment arm allows for a detectable treatment effect of 29% in a 60-month trial (80% power, P = .05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: We have identified a composite cognitive test score representing multiple cognitive domains that, compared to the most sensitive single test item, has improved power to track preclinical Alzheimer's disease decline in autosomal dominant Alzheimer's disease mutation carriers and to evaluate preclinical Alzheimer's disease treatments. This API composite cognitive test score will be used as the primary end point in the first API trial in cognitively unimpaired autosomal dominant Alzheimer's disease carriers within 15 years of their estimated age at clinical onset. We have independently confirmed our findings in a separate cohort of cognitively healthy older adults who progressed to the clinical stages of late-onset Alzheimer's disease, described in a separate report, and continue to refine the composite in independent cohorts and compared with other analytic approaches.}, }
@article {pmid24806478, year = {2014}, author = {Fox, MC and Mitchum, AL}, title = {Confirming the cognition of rising scores: Fox and Mitchum (2013) predicts violations of measurement invariance in series completion between age-matched cohorts.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {5}, pages = {e95780}, pmid = {24806478}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Cognition ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Middle Aged ; }, abstract = {The trend of rising scores on intelligence tests raises important questions about the comparability of variation within and between time periods. Descriptions of the processes that mediate selection of item responses provide meaningful psychological criteria upon which to base such comparisons. In a recent paper, Fox and Mitchum presented and tested a cognitive theory of rising scores on analogical and inductive reasoning tests that is specific enough to make novel predictions about cohort differences in patterns of item responses for tests such as the Raven's Matrices. In this paper we extend the same proposal in two important ways by (1) testing it against a dataset that enables the effects of cohort to be isolated from those of age, and (2) applying it to two other inductive reasoning tests that exhibit large Flynn effects: Letter Series and Word Series. Following specification and testing of a confirmatory item response model, predicted violations of measurement invariance are observed between two age-matched cohorts that are separated by only 20 years, as members of the later cohort are found to map objects at higher levels of abstraction than members of the earlier cohort who possess the same overall level of ability. Results have implications for the Flynn effect and cognitive aging while underscoring the value of establishing psychological criteria for equating members of distinct groups who achieve the same scores.}, }
@article {pmid24803737, year = {2014}, author = {de Oliveira, MO and Nitrini, R and Yassuda, MS and Brucki, SM}, title = {Vocabulary is an appropriate measure of premorbid intelligence in a sample with heterogeneous educational level in Brazil.}, journal = {Behavioural neurology}, volume = {2014}, number = {}, pages = {875960}, pmid = {24803737}, issn = {1875-8584}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Alzheimer Disease/*psychology ; Amnesia/*psychology ; Brazil ; Cognition ; Cognitive Dysfunction/*psychology ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Vocabulary ; }, abstract = {Crystallized intelligence refers to one's knowledge base and can be measured by vocabulary tests. Fluid intelligence is related to nonverbal aspects of intelligence, depends very little on previously acquired knowledge, and can be measured by tests such as Block Design (BD) and Raven Colored Matrices (RCM). Premorbid intelligence quotient (IQ) refers to one's intellectual ability level previous to the onset of disorders like mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) and it is important to estimate disease severity. The objective was to compare performance in tests that measure crystallized and fluid intelligence in healthy subjects and patients with amnestic MCI (aMCI) and AD. One hundred forty-four participants (aMCI (n = 38), AD (n = 45), and healthy controls (n = 61)) were submitted to neuropsychological tests (WAIS-III vocabulary, BD, and RCM). There were significant among groups, except for vocabulary, indicating a relative stability of crystallized intelligence in the continuum from normal to pathological cognitive decline. Vocabulary seems to be stable during the progression of the disease and useful as a measure of premorbid intelligence, that is, to estimate previous function in relation to the level of education and, as a collateral measure of cognition in people with low education.}, }
@article {pmid24793193, year = {2014}, author = {Orłowski, G and Kasprzykowski, Z and Dobicki, W and Pokorny, P and Wuczyński, A and Polechoński, R and Mazgajski, TD}, title = {Trace-element interactions in Rook Corvus frugilegus eggshells along an urbanisation gradient.}, journal = {Archives of environmental contamination and toxicology}, volume = {67}, number = {4}, pages = {519-528}, doi = {10.1007/s00244-014-0030-x}, pmid = {24793193}, issn = {1432-0703}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; *Environmental Monitoring ; Environmental Pollutants/*analysis ; Environmental Pollution/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Metals/analysis ; Ovum/*chemistry/drug effects ; Trace Elements/*analysis ; Urbanization/*trends ; }, abstract = {Concentrations of seven trace elements [arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and cadmium (Cd)] in the eggshells of Rooks Corvus frugilegus, a focal bird species of Eurasian agricultural environments, are increased above background levels and exceed levels of toxicological concern. The concentrations of Cr, Ni, Pb, Cu, and Zn are greater in eggshells from urban rookeries (large cities) compared with rural areas (small towns and villages) suggesting an urbanisation gradient effect among eggs laid by females. In the present study, the investigators assessed whether the pattern of relationships among the seven trace elements in eggshells change along an urbanisation/pollution gradient. Surprisingly, we found that eggshells with the greatest contaminant burden, i.e., from urban rookeries, showed far fewer significant relationships (n = 4) than eggshells from villages (n = 10), small towns (n = 6), or rural areas (n = 8). In most cases, the relationships were positive. As was an exception: Its concentration was negatively correlated with Ni and Cd levels in eggshells from small town rookeries (where As levels were the highest), whereas eggshells from villages (with a lower As level) showed positive relationships between As and Cd. Our findings suggest that at low to intermediate levels, interactions between the trace elements in Rook eggshells are of a synergistic character and appear to operate as parallel coaccumulation. A habitat-specific excess of some elements (primarily Cr, Ni, Cu, As) suggests their more competitively selective sequestration.}, }
@article {pmid24789893, year = {2014}, author = {Boonekamp, JJ and Mulder, GA and Salomons, HM and Dijkstra, C and Verhulst, S}, title = {Nestling telomere shortening, but not telomere length, reflects developmental stress and predicts survival in wild birds.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {281}, number = {1785}, pages = {20133287}, pmid = {24789893}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/genetics/*physiology ; Electrophoresis, Gel, Pulsed-Field ; Erythrocytes/chemistry ; *Longevity ; Stress, Physiological/*genetics ; Telomere/chemistry ; *Telomere Shortening ; }, abstract = {Developmental stressors often have long-term fitness consequences, but linking offspring traits to fitness prospects has remained a challenge. Telomere length predicts mortality in adult birds, and may provide a link between developmental conditions and fitness prospects. Here, we examine the effects of manipulated brood size on growth, telomere dynamics and post-fledging survival in free-living jackdaws. Nestlings in enlarged broods achieved lower mass and lost 21% more telomere repeats relative to nestlings in reduced broods, showing that developmental stress accelerates telomere shortening. Adult telomere length was positively correlated with their telomere length as nestling (r = 0.83). Thus, an advantage of long telomeres in nestlings is carried through to adulthood. Nestling telomere shortening predicted post-fledging survival and recruitment independent of manipulation and fledgling mass. This effect was strong, with a threefold difference in recruitment probability over the telomere shortening range. By contrast, absolute telomere length was neither affected by brood size manipulation nor related to survival. We conclude that telomere loss, but not absolute telomere length, links developmental conditions to subsequent survival and suggest that telomere shortening may provide a key to unravelling the physiological causes of developmental effects on fitness.}, }
@article {pmid24782744, year = {2014}, author = {Wang, Z and Zhou, R and Shah, P}, title = {Spaced cognitive training promotes training transfer.}, journal = {Frontiers in human neuroscience}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {217}, pmid = {24782744}, issn = {1662-5161}, abstract = {Cognitive training studies yield wildly inconsistent results. One dimension on which studies vary is the scheduling of training sessions (Morrison and Chein, 2011). In this study, we systematically address whether or not spacing of practice influences training and transfer. We randomly assigned 115 fifth grade children to an active control group or one of four training groups who received working memory training based on a "running span" task (Zhao et al., 2011). All groups received the same total amount of training: 20 sessions of training with 60 trials for an average of 20 min per session. The training was spread across 2, 5, 10, or 20 days. The active control group received 20-min sessions of math instruction for 20 sessions. Before and after training participants in all five groups performed a single transfer test that assessed fluid intelligence, the Raven's Progressive Matrices Test. Overall, participants in all four training groups improved significantly on the training task (at least partially), as reflected by increased speed. More importantly, the only training group to show significant improvement on the Raven's was the group who had the greatest amount of spacing (20 days group) during training and improvement in this group was significantly higher than that of the control group.}, }
@article {pmid26308569, year = {2014}, author = {Taylor, AH}, title = {Corvid cognition.}, journal = {Wiley interdisciplinary reviews. Cognitive science}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {361-372}, doi = {10.1002/wcs.1286}, pmid = {26308569}, issn = {1939-5086}, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Numerous myths and legends across the world have suggested that corvids are intelligent. However, it is only in the last two decades that their cognition has become the subject of serious scientific investigation. Here I review what we currently know about the temporal, social, and physical cognition of this group. I argue that, while the work to date establishes corvids as one of the most intelligent groups of animals on the planet, the real scientific potential of the Corvidae has yet to be realized. However, a novel 'signature-testing' experimental approach is required if we want to unlock this group's promise and gain insights into the evolution of human and animal minds. For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.<br><br>CONFLICT OF INTEREST: The authors have declared no conflicts of interest for this article.}, }
@article {pmid24776633, year = {2014}, author = {Appleton, E and Tao, J and Haddock, T and Densmore, D}, title = {Interactive assembly algorithms for molecular cloning.}, journal = {Nature methods}, volume = {11}, number = {6}, pages = {657-662}, pmid = {24776633}, issn = {1548-7105}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; *Cloning, Molecular ; *Software ; }, abstract = {Molecular biologists routinely clone genetic constructs from DNA segments and formulate plans to assemble them. However, manual assembly planning is complex, error prone and not scalable. We address this problem with an algorithm-driven DNA assembly planning software tool suite called Raven (http://www.ravencad.org/) that produces optimized assembly plans and allows users to apply experimental outcomes to redesign assembly plans interactively. We used Raven to calculate assembly plans for thousands of variants of five types of genetic constructs, as well as hundreds of constructs of variable size and complexity from the literature. Finally, we experimentally validated a subset of these assembly plans by reconstructing four recombinase-based 'genetic counter' constructs and two 'repressilator' constructs. We demonstrate that Raven's solutions are significantly better than unoptimized solutions at small and large scales and that Raven's assembly instructions are experimentally valid.}, }
@article {pmid24770885, year = {2014}, author = {Garland, A and Low, J and Armstrong, N and Burns, KC}, title = {Wild robins (Petroica longipes) respond to human gaze.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {17}, number = {5}, pages = {1149-1156}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-014-0747-y}, pmid = {24770885}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Attention ; Choice Behavior ; Cognition ; Cues ; Discrimination, Psychological ; Feeding Behavior/psychology ; Female ; Fixation, Ocular ; Humans ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {Gaze following and awareness of attentional cues are hallmarks of human and non-human social intelligence. Here, we show that the North Island robin (Petroica longipes), a food-hoarding songbird endemic to New Zealand, responds to human eyes. Robins were presented with six different conditions, in which two human experimenters altered the orientation or visibility of their body, head or eyes in relation to mealworm prey. One experimenter had visual access to the prey, and the second experimenter did not. Robins were then given the opportunity to 'steal' one of two mealworms presented by each experimenter. Robins responded by preferentially choosing the mealworm in front of the experimenter who could not see, in all conditions but one. Robins failed to discriminate between experimenters who were facing the mealworm and those who had their head turned 90° to the side. This may suggest that robins do not make decisions using the same eye visibility cues that primates and corvids evince, whether for ecological, experiential or evolutionary reasons.}, }
@article {pmid24761961, year = {2014}, author = {Dempsey, PJ}, title = {Jay J. Listinsky, MD, PhD.}, journal = {Radiology}, volume = {271}, number = {2}, pages = {621}, doi = {10.1148/radiol.14144006}, pmid = {24761961}, issn = {1527-1315}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Radiology/*history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid24761929, year = {2014}, author = {Weisberg, M}, title = {Remeasuring man.}, journal = {Evolution &amp; development}, volume = {16}, number = {3}, pages = {166-178}, doi = {10.1111/ede.12077}, pmid = {24761929}, issn = {1525-142X}, mesh = {Anthropology/history ; Cephalometry/history ; History, 19th Century ; Humans ; *Racial Groups ; Racism ; Skull/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {Samuel George Morton (1799-1851) was the most highly regarded American scientist of the early and middle 19th century. Thanks largely to Stephen Jay Gould's book The Mismeasure of Man, Morton's cranial capacity measurements of different races is now held up as a prime example of and cautionary tale against scientific racism. A team of anthropologists recently reevaluated Morton's work and argued that it was Gould, not Morton, who was biased in his analysis. This article is a reexamination of the Morton and Gould controversy. It argues that most of Gould's arguments against Morton are sound. Although Gould made some errors and overstated his case in a number of places, he provided prima facia evidence, as yet unrefuted, that Morton did indeed mismeasure his skulls in ways that conformed to 19th century racial biases. Gould's critique of Morton ought to remain as an illustration of implicit bias in science.}, }
@article {pmid24760177, year = {2014}, author = {Röder, G and Canestrari, D and Bolopo, D and Marcos, JM and Villard, N and Baglione, V and Turlings, TC}, title = {Chicks of the great spotted cuckoo may turn brood parasitism into mutualism by producing a foul-smelling secretion that repels predators.}, journal = {Journal of chemical ecology}, volume = {40}, number = {4}, pages = {320-324}, pmid = {24760177}, issn = {1573-1561}, mesh = {*Animal Communication ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Cats ; Crows/*parasitology/physiology ; Falconiformes/physiology ; *Food Chain ; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry ; Insect Repellents ; Solid Phase Microextraction ; Spain ; *Symbiosis ; Volatile Organic Compounds/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {The great spotted cuckoo (Clamator glandarius) is an important brood parasite of carrion crows (Corvus corone corone) in northern Spain. We recently found that, unlike what is commonly known for cuckoo-host interactions, the great spotted cuckoo has no negative impact on average crow fitness in this region. The explanation for this surprising effect is a repulsive secretion that the cuckoo chicks produce when they are harassed and that may protect the brood against predation. Here, we provide details on the chemical composition of the cuckoo secretion, as well as conclusive evidence that the dominating volatile chemicals in the secretion are highly repellent to model species representative of common predators of the crows. These results support the notion that, in this particular system, the production of a repulsive secretion by the cuckoo chicks has turned a normally parasitic interaction into a mutualistic one.}, }
@article {pmid24755739, year = {2014}, author = {Massen, JJ and Pašukonis, A and Schmidt, J and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Ravens notice dominance reversals among conspecifics within and outside their social group.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {3679}, pmid = {24755739}, issn = {2041-1723}, support = {M 1351/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; W 1234/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Emotional Intelligence/*physiology ; Female ; Linear Models ; Male ; Recognition, Psychology/*physiology ; *Social Dominance ; }, abstract = {A core feature of social intelligence is the understanding of third-party relations, which has been experimentally demonstrated in primates. Whether other social animals also have this capacity, and whether they can use this capacity flexibly to, for example, also assess the relations of neighbouring conspecifics, remains unknown. Here we show that ravens react differently to playbacks of dominance interactions that either confirm or violate the current rank hierarchy of members in their own social group and of ravens in a neighbouring group. Therefore, ravens understand third-party relations and may deduce those not only via physical interactions but also by observation.}, }
@article {pmid24749552, year = {2014}, author = {Dauvier, B and Bailleux, C and Perret, P}, title = {The development of relational integration during childhood.}, journal = {Developmental psychology}, volume = {50}, number = {6}, pages = {1687-1697}, doi = {10.1037/a0036655}, pmid = {24749552}, issn = {1939-0599}, mesh = {Association Learning/*physiology ; Child ; Child Development/*physiology ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*physiology ; Concept Formation/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Judgment ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving/physiology ; Regression Analysis ; }, abstract = {Relational integration refers to the process whereby several variables are integrated within a single cognitive representation. In cognitive and developmental science, it is regarded as a central function of working memory that may contribute to the development of higher order processes, such as reasoning and fluid intelligence. In the present experiment, we administered the Relational Integration Level Assessment Task (RILAT), a novel experimental task designed to assess children's level of relational integration, to participants aged 5-12 years, along with a measure of fluid intelligence. Results yielded age norms for the development of successive levels of relational complexity and indicated a smooth progression rather than abrupt, stage-like transitions. Relational integration was found to be closely associated with fluid intelligence, as measured by Raven's Progressive Matrices. Analyses of age-related changes in this association revealed that the relationship was strongest during the stabilization periods for each level of relational complexity.}, }
@article {pmid24732494, year = {2014}, author = {Glassman, D and White, L and Lewis, A and King, H and Clarke, A and Glassman, T and Comstock, B and Hannaford, B and Lendvay, TS}, title = {Raven surgical robot training in preparation for da vinci.}, journal = {Studies in health technology and informatics}, volume = {196}, number = {}, pages = {135-141}, pmid = {24732494}, issn = {1879-8365}, mesh = {Adult ; *Clinical Competence ; Female ; Humans ; Laparoscopy/*methods ; Male ; Robotic Surgical Procedures/*instrumentation ; Students, Medical ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The rapid adoption of robotic assisted surgery challenges the pace at which adequate robotic training can occur due to access limitations to the da Vinci robot. Thirty medical students completed a randomized controlled trial evaluating whether the Raven robot could be used as an alternative training tool for the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) block transfer task on the da Vinci robot. Two groups, one trained on the da Vinci and one trained on the Raven, were tested on a criterion FLS block transfer task on the da Vinci. After robotic FLS block transfer proficiency training there was no statistically significant difference between path length (p=0.39) and economy of motion scores (p=0.06) between the two groups, but those trained on the da Vinci did have faster task times (p=0.01). These results provide evidence for the value of using the Raven robot for training prior to using the da Vinci surgical system for similar tasks.}, }
@article {pmid24725685, year = {2014}, author = {Cooper, JS and Yom, SS}, title = {Q&amp;A with Dr Jay S. Cooper about Radiation Therapy Oncology Group 9003.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {89}, number = {1}, pages = {10-12}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijrobp.2014.01.027}, pmid = {24725685}, issn = {1879-355X}, support = {U10 CA021661/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U10 CA180822/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U10 CA180868/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Chemoradiotherapy ; *Dose Fractionation, Radiation ; Humans ; *Radiation Oncology ; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated ; *Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Research Design ; }, }
@article {pmid26392875, year = {2014}, author = {Kelly, TR and Poppenga, RH and Woods, LA and Hernandez, YZ and Boyce, WM and Samaniego, FJ and Torres, SG and Johnson, CK}, title = {Causes of mortality and unintentional poisoning in predatory and scavenging birds in California.}, journal = {Veterinary record open}, volume = {1}, number = {1}, pages = {e000028}, pmid = {26392875}, issn = {2052-6113}, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: We documented causes of mortality in an opportunistic sample of golden eagles, turkey vultures and common ravens, and assessed exposure to several contaminants that have been found in carrion and common prey for these species.<br><br>METHODS: Dead birds were submitted for testing through wildlife rehabilitation centres and a network of wildlife biologists in California from 2007 to 2009.<br><br>RESULTS: The leading causes of mortality in this study were collision-related trauma (63 per cent), lead intoxication (17 per cent) and anticoagulant rodenticide poisoning (8 per cent). Elevated liver lead concentration (&#x2265;2&#x2005;&#xb5;g/g) and bone lead concentration (>6&#x2005;&#xb5;g/g) were detected in 25 and 49 per cent of birds tested, respectively. Approximately 84 per cent of birds tested had detectable rodenticide residues. The majority of rodenticide exposure occurred in peri-urban areas, suggesting that retail sale and use of commensal rodent baits, particularly in residential and semi-residential areas in California, may provide a pathway of exposure.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Monitoring anthropogenic causes of mortality in predatory and scavenging bird species provides important data needed to inform on mitigation and regulatory efforts aimed at reducing threats to these populations.}, }
@article {pmid25913764, year = {2013}, author = {Kawai, Y and Miura, R and Tsujimoto, M and Sakurai, T and Yamaoka, A and Takeda, A and Arahata, Y and Washimi, Y and Kachi, T and Toba, K}, title = {Neuropsychological differentiation between Alzheimer's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies in a memory clinic.}, journal = {Psychogeriatrics : the official journal of the Japanese Psychogeriatric Society}, volume = {13}, number = {3}, pages = {157-163}, doi = {10.1111/psyg.12019}, pmid = {25913764}, issn = {1479-8301}, mesh = {Aged ; Alzheimer Disease/*diagnosis ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Female ; Geriatric Assessment/*methods/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Humans ; Lewy Body Disease/*diagnosis ; Male ; Memory ; Neuropsychological Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to identify a useful neuropsychological instrument for making a differential clinical diagnosis between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB).<br><br>METHODS: We examined 402 AD and 38 DLB patients with neuropsychological tests that covered general cognition, frontal lobe cognitive function, non-verbal abstract reasoning, working memory and attention, and verbal memory. Discriminant analysis using a stepwise method was performed to identify the measures best able to discriminate between AD and DLB.<br><br>RESULTS: The AD patients performed significantly worse than the DLB patients on orientation to time, delayed recall subtests on the Mini-Mental State Examination, and logical memory subtests 1 and 2 of the Revised Wechsler Memory Scale. The DLB patients performed significantly worse than the AD patients on the attention, repetition, and pentagon copying subtests of the Mini-Mental State Examination, the constructional praxis subtests of the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive component-Japanese version, the Frontal Assessment Battery total score, Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) sets A, AB, and B, and backward digit span. Discriminant analyses between AD and DLB established the key variables as Logical Memory 1, Logical Memory 2, backward digit span, RCPM, and delayed recall on the Mini-Mental State Examination. We inferred the AD-DLB discriminant index from the following discriminant analyses: AD-DLB discriminant index = (Backward digit span score + RCPM set B score) - (Logical Memory 1 score + Logical Memory 2 score), which offered a highly favourable value for diagnostic utility.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The AD-DLB discriminant index, consisting of backward digit span, RCPM set B, and logical memory 1 and 2, is useful to differentiate between AD and DLB.}, }
@article {pmid24937860, year = {2013}, author = {}, title = {Jay publishes research on new OA prevention treatment.}, journal = {Rhode Island medical journal (2013)}, volume = {96}, number = {4}, pages = {53}, pmid = {24937860}, issn = {2327-2228}, mesh = {Animals ; Glycoproteins/*therapeutic use ; Humans ; Mice ; Osteoarthritis/*prevention &amp; control ; Rhode Island ; }, }
@article {pmid26527949, year = {2013}, author = {Surdea-Blaga, T and Dumitraşcu, DL}, title = {An expert system for the diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome.}, journal = {Clujul medical (1957)}, volume = {86}, number = {3}, pages = {208-212}, pmid = {26527949}, issn = {1222-2119}, abstract = {For a long time functional digestive disorders (FGIDs), including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), were described based on what they are not, without considering them real entities. Although IBS evolution is benign, it has major effects on the quality of life, it determines a higher number of days of sick leave or days when work activities had to be interrupted, thus increasing the expenses for the society. Our system, developed using CORVID Exsys, is called IBS Expert and addresses both patients and physicians. Answering some simple questions, patients will receive information about their diagnosis, together with additional recommendations. Non-expert physicians will have rapid access to the algorithm of IBS diagnosis, and could use recommendations for future investigations. This expert system is based on the information provided by the most complete collection of data about FGIDs, created by an international group of experts, who elaborated Rome III criteria. The system consists of three sub-systems, including a set of eighteen questions and the diagnosis of IBS, as well as additional recommendations, established using confidence variables. The evaluation of the system consisted of verification (determining the accuracy of the results to ensure the delivery of diagnosis and recommendations as it was intended), validation of knowledge (met through the use of the gold standard in the field) and assessment of the impact on users, either patients or physicians (measuring overall satisfaction and the user effort score in using the system). The system is available online at www.gastroterra.ro and can be accessed by using any Java-enabled device, from standard computers to mobile devices.}, }
@article {pmid26042314, year = {2013}, author = {Frederiksen, SB}, title = {East African odontopygid millipedes 2: A new, geographically disjunct species of Chaleponcus (Attems 1914) from the Pare Mts., Tanzania (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida, Odontopygidae).}, journal = {Zootaxa}, volume = {3636}, number = {}, pages = {597-600}, doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.3636.4.7}, pmid = {26042314}, issn = {1175-5326}, mesh = {Animal Structures/anatomy &amp; histology ; Animals ; Arthropods/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification ; Tanzania ; }, abstract = {Chaleponcus parensis n. sp., found in the North Pare Mountains, Tanzania, is described. The find is remarkable due to its geographically disjunct location, being at least 1500 km as the crow flies to the nearest valid record in Zimbabwe of a Chaleponcus.}, }
@article {pmid25893030, year = {2013}, author = {Bugnyar, T}, title = {Social cognition in ravens.}, journal = {Comparative cognition &amp; behavior reviews}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {1-12}, pmid = {25893030}, issn = {1911-4745}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Complex social life has been proposed as one of the main driving forces for the evolution of higher cognitive abilities in humans and non-human animals. Until recently, this theory has been tested mainly on mammals/primates, whereas little attention has been paid to birds. Indeed, birds provide a challenge to the theory, on one hand because they show high flexibility in group formation and composition, on the other hand because monogamous breeding pairs are the main unit of social structure in many species. Here I illustrate that non-breeding ravens Corvus corax engage in sophisticated social interactions during foraging and conflict management. While Machiavellian-type skills are found in competition for hidden food, the formation and use of valuable relationships (social bonds) seem to be key in dealing with others in daily life. I thus argue that ravens represent a promising case for testing the idea that sophisticated social cognition may evolve in systems with a given degree of social complexity, independently of phylogeny.}, }
@article {pmid25113715, year = {2013}, author = {Goodman, SM and Raherilalao, MJ and Muldoon, K}, title = {Bird fossils from Ankilitelo Cave: inference about Holocene environmental changes in southwestern Madagascar.}, journal = {Zootaxa}, volume = {3750}, number = {}, pages = {534-548}, doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.3750.5.6}, pmid = {25113715}, issn = {1175-5326}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification ; Bone and Bones/anatomy &amp; histology ; Caves ; Environment ; *Fossils ; Madagascar ; }, abstract = {The identifications of non-permineralized fossil bird bones recovered from Ankilitelo Cave in southwestern Madagascar are presented. Among the more than 560 elements recovered, 29 different taxa were identified, the vast majority being species that still occur in this region of the island. Eggshell remains from the extinct elephant bird (Family Aepyornithidae) and assigned to Aepyornis sp. were found at the site. Two identified extant taxa, Scopus umbretta and Monias benschi, no longer occur in the area immediately surrounding the cave. The available radiocarbon measurements of collagen from fossil bird bones and avian eggshell carbonate of recovered from the cave range from 13,270 Cal yr BP to modern times. Hence, the presumed ecological shifts that took place resulting in the disappearance or range contractions of these three taxa is within the Holocene and are presumed to be associated with natural climatic change and in more recent centuries associated human pressures. Information is also presented on the origin of guinea fowl (Numida) and inference on the period of colonization of Corvus albus on Madagascar.}, }
@article {pmid27712172, year = {2012}, author = {}, title = {The future for research is bright.}, journal = {Nurse researcher}, volume = {20}, number = {2}, pages = {44}, doi = {10.7748/nr.20.2.44.s3}, pmid = {27712172}, issn = {1351-5578}, abstract = {CLAIRE HALE is the Dame Kathleen Raven professor of clinical nursing and co-director of the academic and clinical unit for musculoskeletal nursing in the School of Healthcare at the University of Leeds. Having led the RCN's Research Society through a period of change in 2001, Claire was given an RCN Award of Merit.}, }
@article {pmid25057861, year = {2012}, author = {Loeffler, J}, title = {When should proton radiation therapy be used to treat brain tumors?.}, journal = {CNS oncology}, volume = {1}, number = {2}, pages = {123-125}, doi = {10.2217/cns.12.20}, pmid = {25057861}, issn = {2045-0915}, mesh = {Brain Neoplasms/diagnosis/pathology/*radiotherapy ; Humans ; Proton Therapy/adverse effects/*methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated ; }, abstract = {Jay S Loeffler, MD, FACR, FASTRO, is an honors graduate of both Williams College (MA, USA) and Brown University School of Medicine (RI, USA). Loeffler completed his radiation oncology training at the Harvard Joint Center for Radiation Therapy, where he served as Chief Resident in 1985–1986, after completing a year of postdoctoral fellowship at the Harvard School of Public Health Radiobiology Laboratory with Jack Little. Since 1986 he has served on the faculty at Harvard Medical School (MA, USA), initially at the Brigham and Women's Hospital (MA, USA) and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (MA, USA). He also served as Director of the Brain Tumor Center at Brigham and Women's Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Children's Hospital from 1988 to 1996. He was recruited to the Massachusetts General Hospital (MA, USA) in 1996 as Director of the Northeast Proton Therapy Center. He served as the Andreas Soriano Professor and is currently the Herman and Joan Suit Professor of Radiation Oncology, Harvard Medical School and Chairman of the Department of Radiation Oncology since 2000. Loeffler is an authority on the treatment of benign and malignant brain tumors. He is an author of over 210 peer-reviewed publications, 180 book chapters and review articles, and co-editor of nine textbooks in the fields of radiation oncology and neuro-oncology. He has served as the principal investigator on a large program project grant from the National Cancer Institute concerning proton therapy. He has served on numerous journal editorial boards in the field of oncology. Loeffler is a Fellow of the American College of Radiology and the American Society of Radiation Oncology and is a Member of the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences.}, }
@article {pmid25892747, year = {2012}, author = {Braun, A and Walsdorff, T and Fraser, ON and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Socialized sub-groups in a temporary stable Raven flock?.}, journal = {Journal of ornithology}, volume = {153}, number = {1 Suppl}, pages = {97-104}, pmid = {25892747}, issn = {2193-7192}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {A complex social life serves as one of the main driving forces behind the evolution of higher cognitive abilities in vertebrates. In birds, however, data are primarily derived from captive animals, which strongly contrast with free-flying birds in terms of the number of interaction partners as well as available space. In captivity, Common Raven Corvus corax, nonbreeder groups show strong social bonds and complex tactical manoeuvring, whereas wild non-breeders are thought to resemble anonymous aggregations. Over 2 years, we observed a free-flying population of Ravens that visits a game park in the northern Alps. We here focus on the daily fission-fusion dynamics, individual spacing, and the influence of spacing on the birds' agonistic and affiliative behaviour. The composition of marked Ravens in the local population changed slowly but constantly, although often remaining stable for several weeks. Birds only flocked for feeding, mobbing and roosting, and spent the rest of the day in loose aggregations, characterised by temporary small subgroups of 2-5 individuals. Aggression was high during crowd foraging but low outside of a feeding context. Affiliative behaviours, such as sitting within reaching distance, allo-preening and social play, were observed particularly in the small subgroups. These findings suggest that Raven aggregations are not as unstructured as previously thought. Birds may spend time and/or interact affilliatively with multiple individuals during the day. This, along with temporary stability in group composition, provides the opportunity for social relationships to develop, and enables the existence of socialised subgroups within free-flying Raven aggregations.}, }
@article {pmid26105484, year = {2012}, author = {Calandrino, R and Oliveira, FF and Wanderley, LC and Chalem, E and Nagahma, G and Silveira, MR and Korkes, H and Sass, N}, title = {PP163. Are we using magnesium sulphate excessively for preeclamptic patients?.}, journal = {Pregnancy hypertension}, volume = {2}, number = {3}, pages = {327-328}, doi = {10.1016/j.preghy.2012.04.274}, pmid = {26105484}, issn = {2210-7789}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: There is now evidence that magnesium sulfate can prevent and control eclamptic seizures. For women with pre-eclampsia, magnesium sulfate reduces by more than one half the risk of eclampsia. After Magpie Trial [1] our clinical practice has been modified in terms of more liberal use of MgSO4, but the evidence regarding the benefit-to-risk ratio of MgSO4 prophylaxis in mild preeclampsia remains uncertain [2]. Thus we consider important to evaluate whether there are specific characteristics between patients who received the medicine that might signal risk and justify our decisions.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To identify in a group of hypertensive patients who used magnesium sulfate, clinical and/or laboratory characteristics that can be defined as specific risk factors and be useful to base clinical decisions.<br><br>METHODS: The study was conducted at the Maternity School of Vila Nova Cachoeirinha, a public institution located in the north of the city of S&#xe3;o Paulo (Baazil) between 01/07 and 31/12/2011. This is a retrospective study of a series of 103 pregnant women with hypertensive disorders, defined according to NHBPEP. We excluded patients admitted in labor. Patients were assigned into two groups according to the use of MgSO4. We compared clinical and laboratory characteristics between the two groups.<br><br>RESULTS: Of 103 patients included, 31 (30.1%) received MgSO4. Among the outcomes analyzed, there were significant differences in the group that received MgSO4 in terms of blood pressure equal to or greater than 110mmHg, clinical symptoms (eg headache and visual disturbance) and at least some evidence of organ dysfunction (hepatic, renal, haematologic, or central nervous system) (Table 1). Table 1. Variables associated with theuse of magnesium sulfate.<br><br>CONCLUSION: We can say that in our institution over the years was an increase in the use of magnesium sulfate. Our results support the hypothesis that about one in three patients treated at this institution receive the medication. Although our protocol admits that the decision may be based on subjective criteria, we identified some objective characteristics that supported their application, and that these criteria do not differ from the classic recommendations. We can also conclude that in our clinical experience we do not have identified a clear justification for support the routinely use of magnesium sulphate for all women with preeclampsia.}, }
@article {pmid28072221, year = {2012}, author = {}, title = {Step change Ian McMillan Step change is a Freelance journalist.}, journal = {Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987)}, volume = {26}, number = {38}, pages = {18-20}, doi = {10.7748/ns.26.38.18.s26}, pmid = {28072221}, issn = {2047-9018}, abstract = {Staff at a south east London NHS trust are discovering how dance can improve their communication with patients with learning disabilities. Weekly dance sessions, run by Magpie Dance, are now also being made available to people with dementia, autism and other conditions. Through dance people can express emotion, build confidence and change their lives.}, }
@article {pmid27652390, year = {2012}, author = {Volanto, K}, title = {The Life and Work of Dr. Beadie Eugene Conner: An African American Physician in Jim Crow Texas.}, journal = {The Southwestern historical quarterly}, volume = {115}, number = {3}, pages = {258-280}, doi = {10.1353/swh.2012.0001}, pmid = {27652390}, abstract = {[[On a bright, sunny day in late May 1980, commencement exercises were underway at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee. More than 250 physicians, dentists, nurses, candidates in health administration, dental hygienists, and medical technicians prepared to receive their certifications from the second-oldest historically black medical school in the country. Wearing a brown gabardine suit, Dr. Beadie Eugene Conner prepared to be called up to the podium along with some former classmates of Meharry’s class of 1930 to receive a plaque commemorating fifty years of public service. As he made his way up to the podium, tears began to well up in his eyes as he thought about his mother who would be so proud of him, his deceased wife, Willie Ruel, their daughter, Georgia, and the many years that had passed since he received his medical degree. The event contributed to the retired doctor’s desire to write an autobiography. Though never completed, rough drafts of the manuscript’s early chapters (along with other existing personal documents) provide an invaluable window into the interesting life of an important African American physician in twentieth-century Texas.1 The Conner family’s emphasis on education started long before Beadie was born. The earliest relatives of Dr. Conner so far identified are William Conner and Rachel Sterling Conner of Blount County, in eastern Tennessee. Family records indicate that William was born a slave in Knox County, Tennessee, sometime in 1814. He had already purchased his freedom by 1843 when he married Rachel Sterling, a woman born in 1829 into a free black family. William and Rachel lived on a Blount County farm through the Civil War years, raising six boys and one girl. Beadie Conner’s father, David Alexander Conner, was the fourth oldest son, born in 1859. After William died in 1866, Rachel moved the family to Louisville (a community in Blount County not to be confused with the city in Kentucky), where she kept house while David and his two youngest brothers attended school. By the late 1870s, the family had relocated to Knoxville before breaking up and going their separate ways. Among David’s siblings, his sister became a schoolteacher, two brothers served as ministers, one brother became a successful mortician, and his youngest brother, George Sherman Conner (destined to become a role model for young Beadie), started out as a teacher in Paris, Texas, before becoming a physician and important community leader in Waco.2 Much had transpired in David Alexander Conner’s life by the time his twin children Beadie and Beatrice were born on July 8, 1902, in Miller County, Arkansas, on a farm along the banks of the Red River. A widower living with six children from his previous marriage, he had met Queen Fowler Newlin, a short, beautiful woman of French and Choctaw extraction while attending a Baptist convention in Hope, Arkansas, in 1900. After a brief correspondence and courtship, the two married in 1901. Queen had five children from her previous marriage, thus Beadie and Beatrice became the youngest additions to a family already containing eleven brothers and sisters...]]}, }
@article {pmid25922922, year = {2012}, author = {Lewkowicz, S}, title = {Introductory comment to Jay Greenberg's "Conversations with Oedipus".}, journal = {Trends in psychiatry and psychotherapy}, volume = {34}, number = {2}, pages = {49-50}, doi = {10.1590/s2237-60892012000200002}, pmid = {25922922}, issn = {2237-6089}, }
@article {pmid25892846, year = {2012}, author = {Loretto, MC and Fraser, ON and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Ontogeny of Social Relations and Coalition Formation in Common Ravens (Corvus corax).}, journal = {International journal of comparative psychology}, volume = {25}, number = {3}, pages = {180-194}, pmid = {25892846}, issn = {0889-3667}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {The social intelligence hypothesis, originally developed for primates to explain their high intelligence and large relative brain size, assumes that challenges posed by social life in complex societies with many group members lead to the evolution of advanced cognitive abilities. In birds, pair-bonded species have larger brains than non-pair bonded species, indicating that the quality of social relationships better predicts social complexity than group size. Ravens are a long-term monogamous and territorial species, renowned for their sophisticated socio-cognitive skills and complex social relationships. Notably, during their early years they live in fission-fusion-like non-breeder societies in which social relationships could be of particular importance. Here we observed the development of dominance and affiliative relationships in 12 hand-raised captive ravens, examining the influence of age, sex and kinship on social interactions. Furthermore, we investigated at which developmental step a stable hierarchy emerged, whether third-party interventions played a role and how selectively birds intervened in others' conflicts. At 4-5 months post-fledging, we found an increase in socio-positive behaviour and a decrease in aggression, along with the establishment of a linear dominance rank hierarchy. In line with kin selection theory, siblings exhibited a greater degree of tolerance and engaged in more socio-positive behaviour. In their first few months, ravens frequently intervened in others' conflicts but supported mainly the aggressor; later on, their support became more selective towards kin and close social partners. These findings indicate that ravens engage in sophisticated social behaviours and form stable relationships already in their first year of life.}, }
@article {pmid25860085, year = {2011}, author = {Cockcroft, K}, title = {Working memory functioning in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): A comparison between subtypes and normal controls.}, journal = {Journal of child and adolescent mental health}, volume = {23}, number = {2}, pages = {107-118}, doi = {10.2989/17280583.2011.634545}, pmid = {25860085}, issn = {1728-0583}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often experience working memory difficulties. However, research findings are inconsistent, making it difficult to compare results across studies. There are several reasons for this inconsistency. Firstly, most studies make no distinction between ADHD subtypes, despite evidence that predominantly inattentive ADHD (ADHD/I) represents a different neurocognitive profile to the hyperactive-impulsive subtype (ADHD/HI). Secondly, documented studies use different tests of working memory which may be measuring different skills. Some assess only the verbal components of working memory and others the visuo-spatial; few of the tests assess both. Further, some tests employ a recognition methodology and others use recall, which require different brain regions and cognitive processes. To clarify these inconsistencies, the verbal and visuo-spatial working memory of children with ADHD/I, ADHD/HI and a control group with no ADHD symptoms were compared.<br><br>METHOD: The Automated Working Memory Assessment and Ravens Coloured Progressive Matrices were administered to 72 children (ADHD/I n = 27; ADHD/HI n = 25; control n = 20).<br><br>RESULTS: The ADHD groups performed similarly, but were significantly poorer than the control group in all aspects of working memory. Storage abilities were stronger than processing abilities, while verbal and visuo-spatial abilities were equally developed for all groups.<br><br>CONCLUSION: ADHD-related deficits were apparent across working memory components, even when IQ was controlled for, suggesting a generalised impairment.}, }
@article {pmid25892825, year = {2011}, author = {Kenward, B and Schloegl, C and Rutz, C and Weir, AA and Bugnyar, T and Kacelnik, A}, title = {On the evolutionary and ontogenetic origins of tool-oriented behaviour in New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides).}, journal = {Biological journal of the Linnean Society. Linnean Society of London}, volume = {102}, number = {4}, pages = {870-877}, pmid = {25892825}, issn = {0024-4066}, support = {BB/C517392/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/G023913/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides) are prolific tool users in captivity and in the wild, and have an inherited predisposition to express tool-oriented behaviours. To further understand the evolution and development of tool use, we compared the development of object manipulation in New Caledonian crows and common ravens (Corvus corax), which do not routinely use tools. We found striking qualitative similarities in the ontogeny of tool-oriented behaviour in New Caledonian crows and food-caching behaviour in ravens. Given that the common ancestor of New Caledonian crows and ravens was almost certainly a caching species, we therefore propose that the basic action patterns for tool use in New Caledonian crows may have their evolutionary origins in caching behaviour. Noncombinatorial object manipulations had similar frequencies in the two species. However, frequencies of object combinations that are precursors to functional behaviour increased in New Caledonian crows and decreased in ravens throughout the study period, ending 6 weeks post-fledging. These quantitative observations are consistent with the hypothesis that New Caledonian crows develop tool-oriented behaviour because of an increased motivation to perform object combinations that facilitate the necessary learning.}, }
@article {pmid25164178, year = {2011}, author = {Rasmussen, D and Eliasmith, C}, title = {A neural model of rule generation in inductive reasoning.}, journal = {Topics in cognitive science}, volume = {3}, number = {1}, pages = {140-153}, doi = {10.1111/j.1756-8765.2010.01127.x}, pmid = {25164178}, issn = {1756-8765}, mesh = {Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Learning/physiology ; Memory/physiology ; *Models, Neurological ; Thinking/*physiology ; Vocabulary ; }, abstract = {Inductive reasoning is a fundamental and complex aspect of human intelligence. In particular, how do subjects, given a set of particular examples, generate general descriptions of the rules governing that set? We present a biologically plausible method for accomplishing this task and implement it in a spiking neuron model. We demonstrate the success of this model by applying it to the problem domain of Raven's Progressive Matrices, a widely used tool in the field of intelligence testing. The model is able to generate the rules necessary to correctly solve Raven's items, as well as recreate many of the experimental effects observed in human subjects.}, }
@article {pmid25821236, year = {2010}, author = {Fraser, ON and Bugnyar, T}, title = {The quality of social relationships in ravens.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {79}, number = {4}, pages = {927-933}, pmid = {25821236}, issn = {0003-3472}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {The quality of a social relationship represents the history of past social interactions between two individuals, from which the nature and outcome of future interactions can be predicted. Current theory predicts that relationship quality comprises three separate components, its value, compatibility and security. This study is the first to investigate the components of relationship quality in a large-brained bird. Following methods recently used to obtain quantitative measures of each relationship quality component in chimpanzees, Pan troglodytes, we entered data on seven behavioural variables from a group of 11 ravens, Corvus corax, into a principal components analysis. The characteristics of the extracted components matched those predicted for value, compatibility and security, and were labelled as such. When the effects of kinship and sex combination on each relationship quality component were analysed, we found that kin had more valuable relationships, whereas females had less secure and compatible relationships, although the effect of sex combination on compatibility only applied to nonkin. These patterns are consistent with what little knowledge we have of raven relationships from aviary studies and show that the components of relationship quality in ravens may indeed be analogous to those in chimpanzees.}, }
@article {pmid29213642, year = {2009}, author = {de Oliveira, MO and Porto, CS and Brucki, SMD}, title = {S-TOFHLA in mild Alzheimer's disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment patients as a measure of functional literacy: Preliminary study.}, journal = {Dementia &amp; neuropsychologia}, volume = {3}, number = {4}, pages = {291-298}, pmid = {29213642}, issn = {1980-5764}, abstract = {UNLABELLED: The greatest difficulty in diagnosing cognitive loss in our population is the diversity of its education which has a broad spectrum ranging from illiteracy, functional illiteracy and different degrees of literacy, even in those with the same level of schooling.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To verify whether there is impairment on the S-TOFHLA among individuals with AD and MCI compared with healthy controls, and to compare performance on the S-TOFHLA performance with neuropsychological tests and the scores achieved on the Raven's Colored Matrices and Vocabulary and Block Design (WAIS-III) as a measure of estimated intellectual level.<br><br>METHODS: 59 subjects: controls (n=23; age 70.96&#xb1;8.31y; schooling 10.2&#xb1;5.87y; 6 men), MCI patients (n=11; age 74.18&#xb1;8.12y; schooling 7.55&#xb1;4.32y; 5 men) and AD patients (n=25; age 76.16&#xb1;4.96y; schooling 7.32&#xb1;4.78y; 10 men) were submitted to neuropsychological assessment, S-TOFHLA and functional evaluation.<br><br>RESULTS: Differences on BD, Raven and Estimated IQ were found between controls and MCI patients as well as controls and AD patients. On the S-TOFHLA, differences were found between MCI and AD patients, controls and AD patients, but not between control and MCI groups. S-TOFHLA performance correlated strongly with schooling and all neuropsychological tests, except Clock Drawing.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The S-TOFHLA seems to be a useful measure for determining the level of literacy in MCI patients, but not in AD patients. S-TOFHLA performance was more closely associated with neuropsychological test scores than were years of education and seems to be a good predictor of level of literacy. The Vocabulary subtest proved to be uninfluenced by the disease process in early stages and preserved in both MCI and AD patients, showing that semantic memory and crystallized intelligence are preserved.}, }
@article {pmid27644353, year = {2009}, author = {}, title = {[Not Available].}, journal = {Emergency nurse : the journal of the RCN Accident and Emergency Nursing Association}, volume = {16}, number = {10}, pages = {3}, doi = {10.7748/en.16.10.3.s7}, pmid = {27644353}, issn = {1354-5752}, abstract = {Warming up: recovery sister and Territorial Army (TA) nurse Zayne Crow is undertaking a 151-mile race this month across part of the Sahara Desert. Ms Crow, who works at the King Edward VII's Hospital, London, and is an emergency nurse at the TA's City of London Field Hospital, is competing in the formidable Marathon des Sables, in Morocco. This is described as the world's toughest foot race, in which competitors run the equivalent of five and a half marathons in six days while carrying all of their kit, in temperatures of up to 50°C. Ms Crow said: 'The extreme temperatures and the weight I will be carrying will make it an immense challenge but, in terms of physical and mental fitness, I am in peak condition.' Ms Crow is raising funds for the wounded service personnel charity, Help for Heroes. ►For more information, go to www.justgiving.com/zaynecrow.}, }
@article {pmid29213607, year = {2009}, author = {Saboya, E and Coutinho, G and Segenreich, D and Ayrão, V and Mattos, P}, title = {Lack of executive functions deficits among adult ad hd individuals from a Brazilian clinical sample.}, journal = {Dementia &amp; neuropsychologia}, volume = {3}, number = {1}, pages = {34-37}, pmid = {29213607}, issn = {1980-5764}, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Executive function deficits have been previously documented in individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The current study aimed to compare measures of executive functions among a clinical sample of adults with ADHD and normal control subjects, matched for age, gender and education.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty-three self-referred adults diagnosed with ADHD according to DSM-IV criteria, and twenty-five control subjects were assessed using a neuropsychological battery which included the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, Tower of Hanoi, Digit Span, Trail Making Test (A and B), Stroop Test and Raven's Progressive Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: The ADHD group did not differ significantly from the control subjects on any of the measures assessed.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Measures of executive functions using this test battery were unable to discriminate between adults with ADHD and control subjects in this clinical sample.}, }
@article {pmid25164800, year = {2009}, author = {Clayton, NS and Russell, J and Dickinson, A}, title = {Are animals stuck in time or are they chronesthetic creatures?.}, journal = {Topics in cognitive science}, volume = {1}, number = {1}, pages = {59-71}, doi = {10.1111/j.1756-8765.2008.01004.x}, pmid = {25164800}, issn = {1756-8765}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; *Goals ; Humans ; *Memory, Episodic ; *Models, Psychological ; }, abstract = {Although psychologists study both the objective (behavior) and the subjective (phenomenology) components of cognition, we argue that an overemphasis on the subjective drives a wedge between psychology and other closely related scientific disciplines, such as comparative studies of cognition and artificial intelligence. This wedge is particularly apparent in contemporary studies of episodic recollection and future planning, two related abilities that many have assumed to be unique to humans. We shall challenge this doctrine. To do so, we shall adopt an ethological approach to comparative cognition and this necessitates two requirements. The first is that memory and planning need to be characterized in terms of objectively defined properties as opposed to purely phenomenological ones; the ability to remember what happened, where, and how long ago is a critical behavioral criterion for episodic memory. The second requirement is the identification of an ethological context in which these memories would confer a selective advantage. As a consequence, we turn this debate into an empirical evaluation in nonlinguistic animals and one embodied in synthetic creatures. Indeed, our behavioral conception of flexibly deployable information about "what, where, and when" has so far supported a comparative cognition in animals as diverse as corvids and primates. We argue that this approach may clarify and challenge ideas that have been based solely on research with human subjects, without the need to be constrained by phenomenological assumptions based on human-centric ways of thinking.}, }
@article {pmid25948877, year = {2008}, author = {Range, F and Bugnyar, T and Kotrschal, K}, title = {The performance of ravens on simple discrimination tasks: a preliminary study.}, journal = {Acta ethologica}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {34-41}, pmid = {25948877}, issn = {0873-9749}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {Recent studies suggest the existence of primate-like cognitive abilities in corvids. Although the learning abilities of corvids in comparison to other species have been investigated before, little is known on how corvids perform on simple discrimination tasks if tested in experimental settings comparable to those that have been used for studying complex cognitive abilities. In this study, we tested a captive group of 12 ravens (Corvus corax) on four discrimination problems and their reversals. In contrast to other studies investigating learning abilities, our ravens were not food deprived and participation in experiments was voluntary. This preliminary study showed that all ravens successfully solved feature and position discriminations and several of the ravens could solve new tasks in a few trials, making very few mistakes.}, }
@article {pmid25948875, year = {2008}, author = {Schwab, C and Bugnyar, T and Schloegl, C and Kotrschal, K}, title = {Enhanced social learning between siblings in common ravens, Corvus corax.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {75}, number = {2}, pages = {501-508}, pmid = {25948875}, issn = {0003-3472}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {It has been suggested that social dynamics affect social learning but empirical support for this idea is scarce. Here we show that affiliate relationships among kin indeed enhance the performance of common ravens, Corvus corax, in a social learning task. Via daily behavioural protocols we first monitored social dynamics in our group of captive young ravens. Siblings spent significantly more time in close proximity to each other than did nonsiblings. We subsequently tested birds on a stimulus enhancement task in model-observer dyads composed of both siblings and nonsiblings. During demonstration the observer could watch the model manipulating one particular object (target object) in an adjacent room. After removing the model, the observer was confronted with five different objects including the former target object. Observers from sibling dyads handled the target object for significantly longer periods of time as compared with the other four available objects, whereas observers from nonsibling dyads did not show a preference for the target object. Also, siblings matched the model's decision to cache or not to cache objects significantly more often than did nonsiblings. Hence, siblings were likely to attend to both, the behaviour of the model (caching or noncaching) and object-specific details. Our results support the hypothesis that affiliate relations between individuals affect the transmission of information and may lead to directed social learning even when spatial proximity has been experimentally controlled for.}, }
@article {pmid29213536, year = {2008}, author = {Malloy-Diniz, LF and Cardoso-Martins, C and Nassif, EP and Levy, AM and Leite, WB and Fuentes, D}, title = {Planning abilities of children aged 4 years and 9 months to 8 ½ years: Effects of age, fluid intelligence and school type on performance in the Tower of London test.}, journal = {Dementia &amp; neuropsychologia}, volume = {2}, number = {1}, pages = {26-30}, pmid = {29213536}, issn = {1980-5764}, abstract = {UNLABELLED: The present study investigated the relationship between age and one type of environmental factor, namely, type of school (i.e., private vs. public), and the development of mental planning ability, as measured by the Tower of London (TOL) test.<br><br>METHODS: Participants comprised 197 public and 174 private school students, ranging in age from 4 years and 9 months to 8 years and 6 months. Besides the TOL test, students were administered Raven's Colored Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: Results confirmed the findings of previous studies that both age and school type are important predictors of mental planning. Furthermore, results also suggest that the relationship between type of school and mental planning ability cannot be accounted for by differences in students' fluid intelligence.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In the present study, the TOL test continued to differentiate public from private school students, even after we controlled for the effect of differences on the Raven test.}, }
@article {pmid27702258, year = {2005}, author = {}, title = {Handbook of mental health in the workplace Jay C Thomas and Michel Hersen Handbook of mental health in the workplace Sage 574 £77 0761922555 0761922555 [Formula: see text].}, journal = {Nurse researcher}, volume = {12}, number = {4}, pages = {93-94}, doi = {10.7748/nr.12.4.93.s10}, pmid = {27702258}, issn = {1351-5578}, abstract = {This book provides a comprehensive overview of theory, legislation (as it applies in the US) and good practice concerned with the successful employment of people with mental health disabilities.}, }
@article {pmid24820875, year = {2004}, author = {Iasenza, S}, title = {Lesbian psychoanalytic foremothers making waves.}, journal = {Journal of lesbian studies}, volume = {8}, number = {1-2}, pages = {11-43}, doi = {10.1300/J155v08n01_02}, pmid = {24820875}, issn = {1089-4160}, abstract = {The progress lesbians have made within psychoanalysis is in its infancy since the first wave of gay/lesbian affirmative literature be-Suzanne Iasenza, PhD, is Associate Professor of Counseling at John Jay CollegeCity University of New York. She is on the faculties of the Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy and the Institute for Human Identity. She maintains a private practice in psychotherapy and sex therapy in New York City. gan to surface in the early 1990s. The author stresses the need to document the history of the development of this long overdue movement. Three lesbian psychoanalytic foremothers are interviewed who offer glimpses into the psychoanalytic community from the early 1970s to the present giving us a deeper understanding of courageous acts that helped create gay and lesbian affirmative space within psychoanalysis.}, }
@article {pmid25864690, year = {2003}, author = {Venter, A and Bham, A}, title = {The usefulness of commercially available 'culture fair' tests in the assessment of educational success in Grade 1 Black pupils in South Africa - an explorative study.}, journal = {Journal of child and adolescent mental health}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {33-37}, doi = {10.2989/17280580309486538}, pmid = {25864690}, issn = {1728-0583}, abstract = {School failure among Grade 1 pupils and the subsequent drop out rate is of major concern in South Africa, especially as far as Black pupils are concerned. The school drop out rate is estimated to be four times higher in Black pupils than White children. The dilemma for the professionals in assessing children, who are experiencing difficulty at school, and who are from disadvantaged, non-English speaking communities, is the paucity of reliable, objective tests to identify children at risk. The purpose of this study was to determine whether commercially available 'culture fair' tests could be used to evaluate Black pupils early in Grade 1 and if they were associated with educational success. A parental questionnaire was used to examine non-academic predictors of educational success, such as birth history, socio-economic status and the medical profile. One hundred and three Grade 1 pupils were tested in the first term. The tests used were the Griffiths Mental Developmental Scales, WISC mazes, Raven's Progressive Matrices, Developmental Test of Visual Motor Integration (VMI), Motor-free Visual Perceptual Test (MVPT), Test of Visual Perceptual Skills (TVPS) and the Draw-a-Person Test (DAP). Several backward elimination stepwise regression analysis procedures were used to examine the multivariate associations between the psychometric and nonacademic variables and three outcome variables, namely the mid and end of year aggregates and a pass/fail dichotomous variable. Non-academic variables that were significantly associated with academic success were asphyxia, overcrowding and maternal education. The psychometric subtests that were significantly associated with academic achievement were the VMI, DAP, the Raven's Progressive Matrices, TVPS and WISC mazes. Commercially available 'culture fair' tests are significantly associated with educational success in Black Grade 1 pupils where standardised, comprehensive tests are not available. To evaluate to what extent these tests would be reliable predictors of educational success further studies would have to analyse a larger cohort of pupils.}, }
@article {pmid28466159, year = {2002}, author = {Roos, S}, title = {Functional response, seasonal decline and landscape differences in nest predation risk.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {133}, number = {4}, pages = {608-615}, doi = {10.1007/s00442-002-1056-8}, pmid = {28466159}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {Previous studies investigating density-dependent nest predation risk have suffered from unnaturally high nest densities (artificial nests) or lack of controls for nest predator densities (observational data on real nests). I designed an experiment with artificial nests within the natural range of nest densities using a Latin square design (to control for differences in densities of nest predators in time and space) to avoid the shortcomings of previous studies. I incorporated confounding factors, such as time in the breeding season and landscape type, in order to study whether they affected nest predation risk. The experiment was performed in dry semi-natural shrub-rich grasslands in Sweden, using artificial shrub-nests containing two quail (Coturnix coturnix) eggs and a plasticine egg. Finally, I validated my results obtained from the artificial nest experiment by comparing relative nest predation risk on artificial nests with nest predation risk on real nests of red-backed shrikes (Lanius collurio), a shrub-nesting passerine. Corvids were the major nest predators on artificial shrub nests as revealed by marks in plasticine eggs. Within the natural variation in densities of simultaneously active shrub nests, corvids increased their rates of predation with increasing densities of artificial nests, indicating a functional response. Nest predation risk decreased with time in the season and differed between grassland plots in farmland-dominated (high risk), farmland-forest mosaic (low risk), and forest-dominated (low risk) landscape surroundings. Furthermore, predation risk on artificial nests increased with decreasing distance to nests of at least one corvid species. Breeding red-backed shrikes selected grasslands with a low nest predation risk on artificial nests and reproductive success of shrikes was positively related to success of artificial nests. Moreover, the probability of success for both artificial and real red-backed shrike nests increased with increasing distance from the nearest corvid nest. Thus, results from the artificial nest experiment were validated by the results from the red-backed shrike population study. My results therefore suggest that predation risk measured on artificial nests can be used as a relative index of spatial and temporal variation in nest predation risk. My results also indicate that grasslands in forested landscapes should be given extra attention for conservation aspects, since nest predation risk is lower there compared to grasslands in more open habitats.}, }
@article {pmid27321683, year = {2001}, author = {}, title = {A switchback route to an uncertain future.}, journal = {Nursing older people}, volume = {13}, number = {8}, pages = {3}, doi = {10.7748/nop.13.8.3.s1}, pmid = {27321683}, issn = {1472-0795}, abstract = {There is something in the nature of progress that means it never adopts the straight line approach advocated by the average crow, preferring instead three steps back, one to either side and a periodic return to its People speak of progress marching on, as if it a clear road with minimal obstacles. The reality is every development, for every improvement, there is pulling back change and impeding progress, than in the lives of the UK's older people.}, }
@article {pmid28547325, year = {2000}, author = {Soler, J and Soler, M}, title = {Brood-parasite interactions between great spotted cuckoos and magpies: a model system for studying coevolutionary relationships.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {125}, number = {3}, pages = {309-320}, doi = {10.1007/s004420000487}, pmid = {28547325}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {Brood parasitism is one of the systems where coevolutionary processes have received the most research. Here, we review experiments that suggest a coevolutionary process between the great spotted cuckoo (Clamator glandarius) and its magpie (Pica pica) host. We focus on different stages of establishment of the relationship, from cuckoos selecting individual hosts and hosts defending their nests from adult cuckoos, to the ability of magpies to detect cuckoo eggs in their nests. Novel coevolutionary insights emerge from our synthesis of the literature, including how the evolution of "Mafia" behaviour in cuckoos does not necessarily inhibit the evolution of host recognition and rejection of cuckoo offspring, and how different populations of black-billed magpies in Europe have evolved specific host traits (e.g. nest and clutch size) as a result of interactions with the great spotted cuckoo. Finally, the results of the synthesis reveal the importance of using a meta-population approach when studying coevolution. This is especially relevant in those cases where gene flow among populations with different degrees of brood parasitism explains patterns of coexistence between defensive and non-defensive host phenotypes. We propose the use of a meta-population approach to distinguish between the "evolutionary equilibrium" hypothesis and the "evolutionary lag" hypothesis.}, }
@article {pmid24802685, year = {2000}, author = {Jay, K}, title = {Karla jay.}, journal = {Journal of lesbian studies}, volume = {4}, number = {4}, pages = {79-86}, doi = {10.1300/J155v04n04_07}, pmid = {24802685}, issn = {1089-4160}, abstract = {SUMMARY Karla Jay discusses Tales of the Lavender Menace: A Memoir of Liberation (published in 1999). She engages the connections between the personal and the political in her memoir. The reception by readers, family relations, the history of the feminist movement, racism, and homophobia are also deliberated in relation to the writing "process" and the motivations to write.}, }
@article {pmid28565625, year = {1999}, author = {Soler, JJ and Martinez, JG and Soler, M and Møller, AP}, title = {GENETIC AND GEOGRAPHIC VARIATION IN REJECTION BEHAVIOR OF CUCKOO EGGS BY EUROPEAN MAGPIE POPULATIONS: AN EXPERIMENTAL TEST OF REJECTER-GENE FLOW.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {53}, number = {3}, pages = {947-956}, doi = {10.1111/j.1558-5646.1999.tb05388.x}, pmid = {28565625}, issn = {1558-5646}, abstract = {Host responses toward brood parasitism have been shown to differ among populations depending on the duration of sympatry between host and parasite, although populations not currently parasitized show rejection behavior against parasitic eggs. The persistence of rejection behavior in unparasitized host populations and rapid increases of rejection rate in parasitized ones have sometimes been explained as the result of gene flow of rejecter genes from sympatry to allopatry (rejecter-gene flow hypothesis). We present data on the rejection behavior of magpies (Pica pica) the main European host of the great spotted cuckoo (Clamator glandarius), in 15 populations (nine sympatric six allopatric) across their distribution range in Europe. Rejection rates of mimetic and nonmimetic model eggs were significantly higher in sympatric than in allopatric magpie populations, although differences in rejection rate of both mimetic and nonmimetic model eggs between magpie populations were significantly correlated even after controlling tor phylogenetic effects, with differences between sympatric and allopatric magpie populations being larger for mimetic than for nonmimetic model eggs. Differences in rejection of mimetic model eggs were related to both genetic and geographic distances between populations, but differences in rejection rate of nonmimetic model eggs were unrelated to these distances. However, when comparing only sympatric populations, differences in rejection rate of both mimetic and nonmimetic model eggs were related to geographic distances. A multiple autocorrelation analysis revealed that differences among populations in rejection rates of mimetic model eggs had a strong geographic component whereas the main component of rejection rate of nonmimetic model eggs was genetic rather than geographic. These results support the rejecter-gene flow hypothesis. We discuss differences in rejection rates of mimetic and nonmimetic model eggs that suggest the egg-recognition ability of the host is genetically based, but is affected by a learning process for fine tuning of recognition.}, }
@article {pmid28565191, year = {1999}, author = {Martinez, JG and Soler, JJ and Soler, M and Møller, AP and Burke, T}, title = {COMPARATIVE POPULATION STRUCTURE AND GENE FLOW OF A BROOD PARASITE, THE GREAT SPOTTED CUCKOO (CLAMATOR GLANDARIUS), AND ITS PRIMARY HOST, THE MAGPIE (PICA PICA).}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {53}, number = {1}, pages = {269-278}, doi = {10.1111/j.1558-5646.1999.tb05352.x}, pmid = {28565191}, issn = {1558-5646}, abstract = {The amount of gene flow is an important determinant of population structure and therefore of central importance for understanding coevolutionary processes. We used microsatellite markers to estimate population structure and gene flow rates of the great spotted cuckoo (Clamator glandarius) and its main host in Europe, the magpie (Pica pica), in a number of populations (seven and 15, respectively) across their distribution range in Europe. The genetic analysis shows that there exists a pattern of isolation by distance in both species, although the cuckoo data are only indicative due to a small sample size. Gene flow seems to be extensive between nearby populations, higher for magpies than cuckoos, and especially high for magpie populations within the area of distribution of the great spotted cuckoo. There is no correlation between genetic distances between magpie populations and genetic distances between cuckoo populations. We discuss the implications of extensive gene flow between magpie populations in sympatry with cuckoos for the population dynamics of hosts, in particular for the occurrence of egg rejection behavior in host populations and how the different rates of migration for both species can affect the dynamics of coevolutionary processes.}, }
@article {pmid28307703, year = {1999}, author = {Soler, JJ and Møller, AP and Soler, M}, title = {A comparative study of host selection in the European cuckoo Cuculus canorus.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {118}, number = {2}, pages = {265-276}, doi = {10.1007/s004420050727}, pmid = {28307703}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {Certain kinds of hosts are commonly regarded as being more suitable than other for rearing European cuckoos (Cuculus canorus) - insectivores that lay small eggs and have open, shallow nests - although empirical tests of cuckoo host selection are lacking. We analysed host use by the European cuckoo in 72 British passerines that are potential hosts and for which there was information available on life-history variables and variables related to cuckoo-host coevolution, such as rate of parasitism, rejection rate of non-mimetic model eggs and degree of cuckoo-egg mimicry of host eggs. The relative population size of the host species affected parasitism rate most strongly, followed by relatively short duration of the nestling period, and the kind of nest, with cuckoos selecting open-nesting hosts. However, the effect of the nestling period could be related to host body size and the kind of nest used, because hole-nesting species normally have longer nestling periods than open-nesters. We re-analysed the data excluding hole nesters and corvid species (species with larger body mass), but the results remained identical. The European cuckoo may benefit from selecting hosts with short nestling periods because such hosts provide food for their nestlings at a very high rate. When only those species known as cuckoo hosts were analysed, the variable that best accounted for the parasitism rate was duration of the breeding season. Therefore, availability of potential hosts in both time and space is important for cuckoos in selecting hosts.}, }
@article {pmid28307917, year = {1998}, author = {Soler, M and Soler, JJ and Martinez, JG and Pérez-Contreras, T and Møller, AP}, title = {Micro-evolutionary change and population dynamics of a brood parasite and its primary host: the intermittent arms race hypothesis.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {117}, number = {3}, pages = {381-390}, doi = {10.1007/s004420050671}, pmid = {28307917}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {A long-term study of the interactions between a brood parasite, the great spotted cuckoo Clamator glandarius, and its primary host the magpie Pica pica, demonstrated local changes in the distribution of both magpies and cuckoos and a rapid increase of rejection of both mimetic and non-mimetic model eggs by the host. In rich areas, magpies improved three of their defensive mechanisms: nest density and breeding synchrony increased dramatically and rejection rate of cuckoo eggs increased more slowly. A stepwise multiple regression analysis showed that parasitism rate decreased as host density increased and cuckoo density decreased. A logistic regression analysis indicated that the probability of changes in magpie nest density in the study plots was significantly affected by the density of magpie nests during the previous year (positively) and the rejection rate of mimetic model eggs (negatively). These results are consistent with a hypothesis (the intermittent arms race hypothesis) of spatially structured cyclic changes in parasitism. During periods of parasitism, host defences continuously improve, and as a consequence, the fitness gains for parasites decrease. When host defences against parasites reach a high level, dispersing parasites have a selective advantage if they are able to emigrate to areas of low resistance. Once parasites have left an area hosts will lose their defensive adaptations due to their cost in the absence of parasitism. The scene is then set for re-colonization by great spotted cuckoos.}, }
@article {pmid28308500, year = {1998}, author = {Martínez, JG and Soler, JJ and Soler, M and Burke, T}, title = {Spatial patterns of egg laying and multiple parasitism in a brood parasite: a non-territorial system in the great spotted cuckoo (Clamator glandarius).}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {117}, number = {1-2}, pages = {286-294}, doi = {10.1007/s004420050660}, pmid = {28308500}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {We analysed the spatial and temporal pattern of egg laying in great spotted cuckoo females using microsatellite typing to determine parentage of the eggs and nestlings found in host (magpie) nests. The results showed that there were no exclusive laying territories in the study area. Cases of multiparasitism could be due to single females laying two or more eggs in a nest, or to several females using the same nest. In the latter case multiparasitism was due to a shortage of available host nests. We argue that the need for very large laying areas and the likely small cost of sharing parental care for chicks make the costs of defending territories higher than the benefits, which has constrained the evolution of territoriality in this species.}, }
@article {pmid28308476, year = {1998}, author = {Söderström, B and Pärt, T and Rydén, J}, title = {Different nest predator faunas and nest predation risk on ground and shrub nests at forest ecotones: an experiment and a review.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {117}, number = {1-2}, pages = {108-118}, doi = {10.1007/s004420050638}, pmid = {28308476}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {This study examined predator faunas of artificial ground and shrub nests and whether nest predation risk was influenced by nest site, proximity to forest edge, and habitat structure in 38 grassland plots in south-central Sweden. There was a clear separation of predator faunas between shrub and ground nests as identified from marks in plasticine eggs. Corvids accounted for almost all predation on shrub nests whereas mammals mainly depredated ground nests. Nest predation risk was significantly greater for shrub than for ground nests at all distances (i.e. 0, 15 and 30 m) from the forest edge. However, nest predation risk was not significantly related to distance to forest edge, but significantly increased with decreasing distance to the nearest tree. Different corvid species robbed nests at different distances from the forest edge, with jays robbing nests closest to edges. We conclude that the relationship between the predation risk of grassland bird nests and distance to the forest edge mainly depends on the relative importance of different nest predator species and on the structure of the forest edge zone. A review of published articles on artificial shrub and ground nest predation in the temperate zone corroborated the results of our own study, namely that shrub nests experienced higher rates of depredation in open habitats close to the forest edge and that avian predators predominantly robbed shrub nests. Furthermore, the review results showed that predation rates on nests in general are highest <50 m inside the forest and lower in open as well as forest interior habitats (≥50 m from the edge).}, }
@article {pmid28080656, year = {1998}, author = {}, title = {Sidelines.}, journal = {Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987)}, volume = {12}, number = {43}, pages = {16}, doi = {10.7748/ns.12.43.16.s36}, pmid = {28080656}, issn = {2047-9018}, abstract = {■ If Lord Stoddard of Swindon ever ends up in hospital, nurses should beware of (ailing hint David. At least, not unless they are sure he won't be offended. The Labour peer is upset at the overfamiliarity of NHS staff who address patients by their first names rather than their surnames. Lord Stoddard is so concerned that he has urged health minister Baroness Jay to issue orders to all NHS hospitals. His Lordship, as he may wish to be described, believes NHS patients should be treated 'like paying customers' and 'customers should be addressed by their surnames and titles unless the use of their Christian name is desired and sanctioned by the customer'.}, }
@article {pmid28568350, year = {1998}, author = {Janz, N and Nylin, S}, title = {BUTTERFLIES AND PLANTS: A PHYLOGENETIC STUDY.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {52}, number = {2}, pages = {486-502}, doi = {10.1111/j.1558-5646.1998.tb01648.x}, pmid = {28568350}, issn = {1558-5646}, abstract = {A database on host plant records from 437 ingroup taxa has been used to test a number of hypotheses on the interaction between butterflies and their host plants using phylogenetic methods (simple character optimization, concentrated changes test, and independent contrasts test). The butterfly phylogeny was assembled from various sources and host plant clades were identified according to Chase et al.'s rbcL-based phylogeny. The ancestral host plant appears to be associated within a highly derived rosid clade, including the family Fabaceae. As fossil data suggest that this clade is older than the butterflies, they must have colonized already diversified plants. Previous studies also suggest that the patterns of association in most insect-plant interactions are more shaped by host shifts, through colonization and specialization, than by cospeciation. Consequently, we have focused explicitly on the mechanisms behind host shifts. Our results confirm, in the light of new phylogenetic evidence, the pattern reported by Ehrlich and Raven that related butterflies feed on related plants. We show that host shifts have generally been more common between closely related plants than between more distantly related plants. This finding, together with the possibility of a higher tendency of recolonizing ancestral hosts, helps to explain the apparent large-scale conservation in the patterns of association between insects and their host plants, patterns which at the same time are more flexible on a more detailed level. Plant growth form was an even more conservative aspect of the interaction between butterflies and their host plants than plant phylogeny. However, this is largely explained by a higher probability of colonizations and host shifts while feeding on trees than on other growth forms.}, }
@article {pmid28307995, year = {1997}, author = {Dixon, MD and Johnson, WC and Adkisson, CS}, title = {Effects of weevil larvae on acorn use by blue jays.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {111}, number = {2}, pages = {201-208}, doi = {10.1007/s004420050226}, pmid = {28307995}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {Blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata L.) are important consumers and dispersers of the nuts of oaks and other fagaceous trees in eastern North America. Acorns compose much of the jay diet, especially during the autumn when jays may consume or cache a significant portion of an acorn crop. However, jays do not appear to possess physiological adaptations for countering the protein-binding properties of secondary compounds (tannins) found in acorns. We offered captive blue jays a mixture of infested and uninfested pin oak (Quercus palustris Muenchh.) acorns to see if the birds would selectively consume nuts containing weevil larvae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) as a protein supplement to a high-tannin, all-acorn diet. Acorns were X-rayed to determine infestation status and then offered to individual jays in an outdoor aviary. Jays handled, opened, and consumed uninfested nuts significantly more often than infested nuts, and use of infested nuts did not increase during continued exposure to a high-tannin diet.}, }
@article {pmid25420198, year = {1997}, author = {Grant, J and Karmiloff-Smith, A and Gathercole, SA and Paterson, S and Howlin, P and Davies, M and Udwin, O}, title = {Phonological Short-term Memory and its Relationship to Language in Williams Syndrome.}, journal = {Cognitive neuropsychiatry}, volume = {2}, number = {2}, pages = {81-99}, doi = {10.1080/135468097396342}, pmid = {25420198}, issn = {1354-6805}, abstract = {Williams syndrome (WS), a rare neurodevelopmental disorder of genetic origin, is characterised by a relative advantage of language over more serious deficits in other cognitive domains. In this study the relationship of phonological short-term memory to WS language, in particular vocabulary, was explored. Using Gathercole and Baddeley's Children's Test of Nonword Repetition (CNRep) (Gathercole &amp; Baddeley, 1996), we examined the pattern of performance by WS participants on that task and compared it to performance on measures of receptive language, visuospatial ability, and digit span. In addition, a comparison was made of WS nonword repetition score with those of two groups of individually matched normally developing 5-year-olds, one on the basis of nonverbal test age and the other on the basis of verbal test age. As expected WS repetition scores showed an effect of nonword length but not of phonological complexity. Nonwords that were relatively wordlike were better repeated than nonwords that were less wordlike. CNRep scores were correlated with test ages on TROG, Ravens, and digit span but not with chronological age. Test age on the CNRep was at a similar level to that on TROG, Ravens, and digit span but significantly lower than on BPVS. The results lend support to the view that phonology in WS is a relative strength. In contrast, despite relatively good productive and receptive vocabulary, certain aspects of the processes of word learning in WS do not seem to develop beyond that of normal 4year-olds. The good vocabulary scores of older children and adults with WS may be simply due to their relatively good phonological short-term memory.}, }
@article {pmid28307462, year = {1997}, author = {Hubbard, JA and McPherson, GR}, title = {Acorn selection by Mexican jays: a test of a tri-trophic symbiotic relationship hypothesis.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {110}, number = {1}, pages = {143-146}, doi = {10.1007/s004420050142}, pmid = {28307462}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {By caching acorns, jays serve as important dispersal agents for oak (Quercus) species. Yet little is known about which acorn characteristics affect selection by jays. In the traditional model of jay/oak symbiosis, large, brown, ripe acorns free of invertebrate parasites (e.g., Curculio acorn weevils) are selected by jays. Recently, it has been suggested that a tri-trophic relationship between oaks, jays, and weevils may have evolved to counter the negative dietary effects of acorn tannins. Under the tri-trophic model, jays would preferentially select acorns containing weevil larvae. We tested the assumptions that (1) acorns containing curculionid larvae exist in sufficient quantities to support jay populations and (2) jays can detect, and preferentially select, acorns containing weevil larvae, and investigated the cues by which jays select acorns. Captive Mexican jays (Aphelocomaultramarina) were presented Emory oak (Quercusemoryi) acorns in aviary feeding trials. Large, dense, viable acorns free of curculionid larvae were preferentially selected. Contrary to results of previous research, color did not affect selection. Acorn viability increased and curculionid larval occupancy decreased in adjacent savannas and isolated stands relative to existing oak woodland, perhaps favoring oak recruitment into adjacent lower-elevation grasslands. Our results compel us to reject the tri-trophic model for this system, and are consistent with the traditional jay/oak symbiosis model. Relatively long-distance dispersal of viable acorns favors Emory oak replacement, and spatial patterns of acorn viability and curculionid parasitism suggest expansion of Emory oak into adjacent low-elevation semi-arid grasslands.}, }
@article {pmid24896081, year = {1996}, author = {Koene, P}, title = {Temporal structure of red jungle fowl crow sequences: single-case analysis.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {38}, number = {2}, pages = {193-202}, doi = {10.1016/s0376-6357(96)00028-9}, pmid = {24896081}, issn = {0376-6357}, abstract = {Vocalisations can be indicators of the physical state or condition of an animal, for instance the crow of a rooster. There are no published data on the temporal structure of crow sequences. In this paper 536 crows in 22 sequences of one red jungle fowl rooster (rooster 1) were recorded and analysed. Calls were very characteristic and there was little variation between the calls. Rooster 1 crowed with a mean latency of 287 s after onset of a light in the early morning. The average crow sequence consisted of 29 calls which lasted for 1416 ms on average. A gradual increase in pre-call interval was characteristic of each sequence. The variation in note durations is systematic and especially the last note correlated highly with the total call duration. Both the pre-call interval and the duration of the 4th note (doooo) may be parameters of fatigue and thus of physical condition. The number of crows in a sequence was positively related to air pressure outdoors. An experiment is done in which the physical condition of a rooster (rooster 2) is manipulated by food deprivation. The results are analysed with single case randomisation tests. The number of crows in a sequence is significantly reduced after food deprivation, while the pre-call intervals are significantly increased. Prediction of the number of crows in the sequence can be done on base of the pre-call interval of the second call: both rooster 1 and 2 showed long pre-call intervals in short call sequences. Food deprivation and the possible loss of condition have a significant effect on the temporal structure of crow sequences and cause a decrease in the number of crows in a call sequence.}, }
@article {pmid28565143, year = {1995}, author = {Soler, M and Soler, JJ and Martinez, JG and M Ller, AP}, title = {MAGPIE HOST MANIPULATION BY GREAT SPOTTED CUCKOOS: EVIDENCE FOR AN AVIAN MAFIA?.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {49}, number = {4}, pages = {770-775}, doi = {10.1111/j.1558-5646.1995.tb02312.x}, pmid = {28565143}, issn = {1558-5646}, abstract = {Why should the hosts of brood parasites accept and raise parasitic offspring that differ dramatically in appearance from their own? There are two solutions to this evolutionary enigma. (1) Hosts may not yet have evolved the capability to discriminate against the parasite, or (2) parasite-host systems have reached an evolutionary equilibrium. Avian brood parasites may either gain renesting opportunities or force their hosts to raise parasitic offspring by destroying or preying upon host eggs or nestlings following host ejection of parasite offspring. These hypotheses may explain why hosts do not remove parasite offspring because only then will hosts avoid clutch destruction by the cuckoo. Here we show experimentally that if the egg of the parasitic great spotted cuckoo Clamator glandarius is removed from nests of its magpie Pica pica host, nests suffer significantly higher predation rates than control nests in which parasite eggs have not been removed. Using plasticine model eggs resembling those of magpies and observations of parasites, we also confirm that great spotted cuckoos that have laid an ejected egg are indeed responsible for destruction of magpie nests with experimentally ejected parasite eggs. Cuckoos benefit from destroying host offspring because they thereby induce some magpies to renest and subsequently accept a cuckoo egg.}, }
@article {pmid28306982, year = {1995}, author = {Norrdahl, K and Suhonen, J and Hemminki, O and Korpimäki, E}, title = {Predator presence may benefit: kestrels protect curlew nests against nest predators.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {101}, number = {1}, pages = {105-109}, pmid = {28306982}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {We studied whether the presence of breeding kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) affected nest predation and breeding habitat selection of curlews (Numenius arquata) on an open flat farmland area in western Finland. We searched for nests of curlews from an area of 6 km[2] during 1985-1993. For each nest found, we recorded the fate of the nest, and the distance to the nearest kestrel nest and to the nearest perch. We measured the impact of breeding kestrels on nest predation by constructing artificial curlew nests in the vicinity of ten kestrel nests in 1993. Curlew nests were closer to kestrel nests than expected from random distribution, eventhough kestrels fed on average 5.5% of curlew chick production. Predation risk by kestrels was lower than predation risk by corvids and other generalist predators, which predated 9% of curlew nests surviving farming practices and an unknown proportion of chicks. Artificial nest experiment showed that nest predation was lower close to kestrel nests than further away suggesting that the breeding association of curlews and kestrels was a behavioural adaptation against nest predation. Thus, the presence of a predator may sometimes be beneficial to prey, and prey animals have behavioural adaptations to these situations.}, }
@article {pmid27657222, year = {1994}, author = {}, title = {[Not Available].}, journal = {Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987)}, volume = {8}, number = {19}, pages = {11}, doi = {10.7748/ns.8.19.11.s29}, pmid = {27657222}, issn = {2047-9018}, abstract = {Former Chief Nurse Dame Kathleen Raven at the ceremony to mark her admission to the Court of Patrons of the Royal College of Surgeons. The honour was bestowed upon her in recognition of her contribution to the education of surgeons. Dame Kathleen's brother Ronald, a distinguished surgeon, was a member of RCS Council and she established an educational trust in his memory after his death.}, }
@article {pmid28314027, year = {1993}, author = {Johnson, WC and Thomas, L and Adkisson, CS}, title = {Dietary circumvention of acorn tannins by blue jays : Implications for oak demography.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {94}, number = {2}, pages = {159-164}, pmid = {28314027}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {Blue jays consume large quantities of acorns to fuel energy-demanding caching flights in the fall. Yet blue jays possess no known physiological adaptation to counter the negative effects of a high tannin diet on protein digestion. Dietary experiments were conducted to determine if blue jays could subsist on an acorn-only diet, and if they could not, to determine whether supplements of acorn weevil larvae (Curculio), present inside acorns, enabled them to maintain their mass. Comparative tannin assays also were conducted on Lepidobalanus (low tannin; white oak) and Erythrobalanus (high tannin; pin oak) acorns using radial diffusion assay. Captive jays consumed considerable acorn material, yet were unable to maintain mass on ad lib. acorn-only diets or on an acorn +1.5 g larvae/day supplement. There were no significant differences in mass loss between high and low tannin diets. In contrast, blue jays were able to stabilize mass on a diet of acorns +5.0 g larvae supplement/day. These results suggest that acorn weevil larvae, or perhaps other insects, counteract the effects of acorn tannins in the jay diet allowing jays to subsist largely on acorns during the fall caching season. Oak demographic processes may be partly regulated by a tri-trophic relationship among plant, insect and bird. Acorn weevil larvae, considered damaging to oak populations, may actually facilitate oak recruitment and population vagility in the long-term.}, }
@article {pmid28312269, year = {1992}, author = {Slagsvold, T and Husby, M and Sandvik, J}, title = {Growth and sex ratio of nestlings in two species of crows: how important is hatching asynchrony?.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {90}, number = {1}, pages = {43-49}, pmid = {28312269}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {In experimental studies of avian hatching paterns offspring sex has been neglected. This may be a problem if nestling growth and mortality is sex biased, and if this bias is influenced by hatching spread. In a field study of two crow species, the magpie Pica pica and the hooded crow Corvus corone cornix, we manipulated hatching spread. Both species have asynchronous hatching, and adult males are larger than females by 12-14%. The sex ratios obtained from the different experimental groups on day 24 post-hatch (total sample n = 403) did not deviate significantly from unity, nor did the sex ratios obtained among young newly hatched in an incubator (total sample n = 305). Male and female offspring were of similar size at hatching but males were larger on day 24 post-hatch. Males seemed to be more costly to rear than females, judging by the 20% difference in the mean amounts of food found in the gizzards of the young on day 24 post-hatch. Dimorphism in body size did not seem to be influenced by degree of hatching spread. Asynchronous hatching did not seem to be needed to produce high quality offspring of the larger sex (i.e. males), nor did asynchronous hatching help to ensure equal parental investment in male and female progeny. One reason for the latter negative results may be that the size dimorphism of the two crow species studied were relatively small.}, }
@article {pmid27236940, year = {1992}, author = {}, title = {'Nurses are overwhelmed by theory'.}, journal = {Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987)}, volume = {6}, number = {27}, pages = {6}, doi = {10.7748/ns.6.27.6.s7}, pmid = {27236940}, issn = {0029-6570}, abstract = {Nurses have moved too far from patient care and are overly obsessed with theory, Dame Kathleen Raven, former Chief Nursing Officer for England, told the RCN Annual Dinner last week.}, }
@article {pmid27755665, year = {1991}, author = {Skagen, SK and Knight, RL and Orians, GH}, title = {Human Disturbance of an Avian Scavenging Guild.}, journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America}, volume = {1}, number = {2}, pages = {215-225}, doi = {10.2307/1941814}, pmid = {27755665}, issn = {1051-0761}, abstract = {In order to investigate the effects of human activities on relationships within foraging guilds, we examined inacanus dynamics of eagles, crows, and gulls scavenging on spawned salmon in the Pacific Northwest. We examined several hypotheses that postulate the asymmetric foraging relationships of the three guild members and that reveal the influence of competition and facilitation in these relationships. Spatial and temporal patterns of resource use by the three primary guild members varied with the presence and absence of human activity at experimental feeding stations. At control (undisturbed) stations, eagles preferred to feed >100 m from vegetative cover, whereas gulls fed <50 m from cover. At experimental (disturbed) stations, eagles rarely fed, and feeding activity by gulls increased at both near and far stations. Crows often fed on alternate food sources in fields adjacent to the river, especially when salmon carcasses were scarce, whereas eagles and gulls rarely did so. We also examined if and how the behavior of single guild members changes in the presence or absence of other guild members. In the absence of eagles, gulls and crows preferred stations far from cover, numbers of both increased at feeding stations, birds were distributed nearer to carcasses, and they fed more. We emphasize that guild theory lends important insights to our understanding of the effects of human disturbance on wildlife communities.}, }
@article {pmid24897723, year = {1991}, author = {Aubin, T}, title = {Why do distress calls evoke interspecific responses? An experimental study applied to some species of birds.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {23}, number = {2}, pages = {103-111}, doi = {10.1016/0376-6357(91)90061-4}, pmid = {24897723}, issn = {0376-6357}, abstract = {Distress calls of birds are well-known to elicit interspecific responses when they are broadcast to different species. We suggest that the interspecificity phenomenon results from the use of similar laws of decoding by all species. To support this hypothesis, we broadcast a simplified synthetic call to five species of birds (Larus argentatus, L. ridibundus, Vanellus vanellus, Corvus frugilegus and Sturnus vulgaris). This synthetic call was built by keeping all the parameters involved in the process of recognition and common to the different species and by removing species specific markers. No significant differences were found between this signal and specific control signals (one for each species). These results support the hypothesis that the interspecificity of responses is linked to similarities in the process of identification of the distress message. In addition, the decoding law of such calls appears to conform to selection pressures imposed by physical laws of sound transmission at long range.}, }
@article {pmid28312495, year = {1991}, author = {Henderson, IG and Hart, PJ}, title = {Age-specific differences in the winter foraging strategies of rooks Corvus frugilegus.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {85}, number = {4}, pages = {492-497}, pmid = {28312495}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {Foraging efficiency and intraspecific competition were compared between wild adult and immature rooks Corvus frugilegus with respect to flock size. Behavioural time budgets, and observations of prey selection and prey energetic values revealed that adult rooks in large flocks (> 50 individuals) consumed smaller, less profitable prey, but allocated more time to feeding and fed at a faster rate and with greater success than adults in small flocks. By contrast, immature rooks in flocks of more than 30 individuals allocated proportionally less time to feeding, fed at a lower rate and fed with no increase in success rate than when foraging in smaller flocks. Agonistic encounters and the avoidance of adults by immature rooks appeared responsible for such inefficient foraging. Hence immature rooks showed a preference for smaller flocks (< 50 individuals) with low adult: immature ratios while adults preferred larger flocks (> 50 individuals). We discuss the possible influence of competitive disadvantages on immature rook distribution, flock composition and post-natal dispersal.}, }
@article {pmid27652879, year = {1990}, author = {}, title = {The wrong reign.}, journal = {Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987)}, volume = {5}, number = {7}, pages = {42}, doi = {10.7748/ns.5.7.42.s41}, pmid = {27652879}, issn = {2047-9018}, abstract = {Astute readers will have noticed that in last week's nursing history article, 'Waiting for the Bombs to Fall', we catapulted the reigning monarch back in time. King George VI became King George IV due to an error of transposition. We apologise to the author, Dame Kathleen Raven for any embarrassment.}, }
@article {pmid28564325, year = {1989}, author = {Bürger, R and Wagner, GP and Stettinger, F}, title = {HOW MUCH HERITABLE VARIATION CAN BE MAINTAINED IN FINITE POPULATIONS BY MUTATION-SELECTION BALANCE?.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {43}, number = {8}, pages = {1748-1766}, doi = {10.1111/j.1558-5646.1989.tb02624.x}, pmid = {28564325}, issn = {1558-5646}, abstract = {The joint effects of stabilizing selection, mutation, recombination, and random drift on the genetic variability of a polygenic character in a finite population are investigated. A simulation study is performed to test the validity of various analytical predictions on the equilibrium genetic variance. A new formula for the expected equilibrium variance is derived that approximates the observed equilibrium variance very closely for all parameter combinations we have tested. The computer model simulates the continuum-of-alleles model of Crow and Kimura. However, it is completely stochastic in the sense that it models evolution as a Markov process and does not use any deterministic evolution equations. The theoretical results are compared with heritability estimates from laboratory and natural populations. Heritabilities ranging from 20% to 50%, as observed even in lab populations under a constant environment, can only be explained by a mutation-selection balance if the phenotypic character is neutral or the number of genes contributing to the trait is sufficiently high, typically several hundred, or if there are a few highly variable loci that influence quantitative traits.}, }
@article {pmid28564322, year = {1989}, author = {Murray, BG and Fitzpatrick, JW and Woolfenden, GE}, title = {THE EVOLUTION OF CLUTCH SIZE. II. A TEST OF THE MURRAY-NOLAN EQUATION.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {43}, number = {8}, pages = {1706-1711}, doi = {10.1111/j.1558-5646.1989.tb02620.x}, pmid = {28564322}, issn = {1558-5646}, abstract = {We test the Murray-Nolan equation for calculating clutch sizes of birds with demographic data from a long-term study of the Florida Scrub Jay (Aphelocoma c. coerulescens). The predicted value, 3.43, is very close to the observed clutch size, 3.33. This result provides further support for the equation's being an adequate description of the relationship among the factors affecting the clutch size of birds.}, }
@article {pmid28312545, year = {1989}, author = {Hill, CJ}, title = {The effect of adult diet on the biology of butterflies : 2. The common crow butterfly, Euploea core corinna.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {81}, number = {2}, pages = {258-266}, pmid = {28312545}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {Euploea core is a long lived butterfly which lays a few relatively large eggs each day. In such a species it is unlikely that reserves of carbohydrate and amino acid accumulated during the larval instars would be sufficient to last its entire adult life. Female E. core were kept in a large flight cage and assigned to one of four treatments. Each treatment comprised a different concentration of sugar and amino acid in the adult diet of the butterflies. Individuals with 25% sugar in their diet lived for longer and attained higher fecundities than those with 1% sugar in their diet. Butterflies on the 1% sugar diet removed greater volumes of food solution than those on the 25% sugar diet. The availability of amino acids in the adult diet had no marked effect on longevity and, if anything, had a negative effect on fecundity. The composition of the adult diet had no discernable effect on egg weight in this species. Sugar is shown to be an important component of the adult diet of E. core but their requirement for amino acids in their adult diet remains unresolved. Finally, using the known volume of food solution removed each day, estimates were made of the minimum amount of energy required by this species each day and the amount of energy required to produce an egg.}, }
@article {pmid29300574, year = {1989}, author = {Zivkovic, D and Dohmen, MR}, title = {Ionic Currents in Lymnaea stagnalis Eggs During Maturation Divisions and First Mitotic Cell Cycle.}, journal = {The Biological bulletin}, volume = {176}, number = {2S}, pages = {103-109}, doi = {10.2307/1541657}, pmid = {29300574}, issn = {1939-8697}, abstract = {The eggs of the mollusc Lymnaea stagnalis generate weak extracellular ionic currents, which have been mapped from oviposition through first cleavage. Throughout this period the current is inward in the animal hemisphere, with highest density at the animal pole, and outward in the vegetal hemisphere, with highest density at the vegetal pole. Peak current densities are measured at the time of first and second polar body formation. During anaphase and telophase of the first mitotic cell cycle, the outward current at the vegetal pole reaches its minimum density and its direction is reversed in most eggs, whereas the inward current at the animal pole gradually increases. This coincides with the segregation of the so-called animal pole plasm to the animal pole (Raven, 1970). The organic calcium channel blockers diltiazem and D600 cause abnormal maturation division(s) and/or first cleavage. At the same time they reduce and eventually abolish the associated ionic currents. These results suggest the existence of a cell-cycle correlated, calcium-dependent component of ionic currents in Lymnaea eggs.}, }
@article {pmid28568560, year = {1989}, author = {Codella, SG and Lederhouse, RC}, title = {INTERSEXUAL COMPARISON OF MIMETIC PROTECTION IN THE BLACK SWALLOWTAIL BUTTERFLY, PAPILIO POLYXENES: EXPERIMENTS WITH CAPTIVE BLUE JAY PREDATORS.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {43}, number = {2}, pages = {410-420}, doi = {10.1111/j.1558-5646.1989.tb04236.x}, pmid = {28568560}, issn = {1558-5646}, abstract = {The black swallowtail butterfly (Papilio polyxenes asterius Stoll), is commonly assumed to exhibit female-limited Batesian mimicry of the aposematic pipevine swallowtail (Battus philenor [L.]), since the dorsal wing surfaces of P. polyxenes females, but not males, resemble those of the model. However, the ventral wing surface is monomorphic and closely resembles that of the model in both sexes. Thus both sexes of P. polyxenes should benefit from mimicry during periods of ventral surface exposure, such as during overnight roosting and other times of high predatory risk. Eight blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata L.) were offered ventrally and dorsally exposed butterfly prey items in an outdoor aviary. Model-conditioned birds refused male and female P. polyxenes equally when the butterflies were presented ventrally. However, significantly more males than females were attacked when the dimorphic dorsum was visible. Both sexes are thus similarly protected when the ventral wing surface is displayed during roosting. The high degree of bird-to-bird variability in response to P. polyxenes mimics suggests that there is a spectrum in ability or willingness of predators to discriminate among mimics of varying similarity to the model. Sexual dimorphism of the dorsal surface of P. polyxenes wings may reflect sexual selection favoring males that are recognizable as satisfactory mates or intrasexual competitors.}, }
@article {pmid27416458, year = {1988}, author = {}, title = {Common abbreviations in clinical medicine Common abbreviations in clinical medicine Huber K Published by Raven Press 248 £10.75 0-88167-390-0 [Formula: see text].}, journal = {Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987)}, volume = {2}, number = {34}, pages = {52}, doi = {10.7748/ns.2.34.52.s90}, pmid = {27416458}, issn = {2047-9018}, abstract = {I agree with Kai Huber that all professions develop a coded language, hence the common use of abbreviations. Like Dr Huber, I too was, some years ago, bemused by the professional short code. More recently, I sat on a working party to narrow down the many used in the nursing profession.}, }
@article {pmid27416433, year = {1988}, author = {Clarke, M}, title = {Mental handicap nursing: what next?.}, journal = {Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987)}, volume = {2}, number = {34}, pages = {38}, doi = {10.7748/ns.2.34.38.s64}, pmid = {27416433}, issn = {2047-9018}, abstract = {Society in general and nursing in particular has undergone enormous changes over the last decade but few sections of society have undergone change to the same extent as the mentally handicapped and those nurses concerned with their care. For the clients the move to community care can only be beneficial provided that such moves are carefully planned and adequately financed. Few people nowadays would question the Jay recommendation (1979) that the majority of mentally handicapped people should live within the community and make use of the same community amenities enjoyed by other people. The enormous strides which have already been made in realising this policy bears tribute to the dedication and adaptability of that part of the nursing profession trained to care for the mentally handicapped.}, }
@article {pmid28312302, year = {1987}, author = {Kingsolver, JG}, title = {Predation, thermoregulation, and wing color in pierid butterflies.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {73}, number = {2}, pages = {301-306}, pmid = {28312302}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {This paper explores two hypotheses about the relationships among predation, thermoregulation, and wing color in butterflies: First, that butterflies are susceptible to predation during thermally marginal periods (e.g., cool weather) when effective thermoregulation and flight are not possible; second, that Pieris butterflies are relatively unpalatable to visual predators, supporting the idea that the white wing pigment of Pieris represents aposematic coloration. Field experiments with Pieris and Colias in 1984 and 1985 demonstrate that substantial predation may occur during the morning period before butterflies are able to actively fly. Circumstantial evidence is presented to suggest that at least some of the predation is by small, cursorial mammals. Feeding experiments in the field using Grey Jays as predators indicate that Pieris napi and P. occidentalis are less palatable than other sympatric butterflies, including confamial Colias alexandra. These and previous results suggest that Pieris are edible but less preferred as prey by birds, and that the degree of palatibility may vary among Pieris species. The relatively low palatability of these Pieris is consistent with the hypothesis that their white pigmentation represents aposematic coloration; however, the cues by which potential bird predators might discriminate against Pieris have not been established.}, }
@article {pmid28561349, year = {1985}, author = {Wourms, MK and Wasserman, FE}, title = {BUTTERFLY WING MARKINGS ARE MORE ADVANTAGEOUS DURING HANDLING THAN DURING THE INITIAL STRIKE OF AN AVIAN PREDATOR.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {39}, number = {4}, pages = {845-851}, doi = {10.1111/j.1558-5646.1985.tb00426.x}, pmid = {28561349}, issn = {1558-5646}, abstract = {The "false head" hypothesis states that due to the posterior ventral wing markings of certain butterflies which resemble a "false head," visually hunting predators, such as birds, are deceived into attacking the hind wing area rather than the true head of the butterfly. In the laboratory, six groups of artificially marked dead cabbage butterflies, Pieris rapae, were presented to Blue Jays, Cyanocitta cristata. Of the six "false head" markings, only the eyespot significantly influenced the point of attack. All of the "false head" markings, however, led to a greater proportion of attacks to the hind wing area of the butterfly. In the course of prey handling following an initial attack, each of the six "false head" markings significantly directed predator handling strikes away from the true head of captive butterflies to the anal angle of the hind wing. In a second experiment, live P. rapae with "false head" markings were mishandled and thus escaped, significantly more frequently than controls. Therefore, "false head" markings may confer a selective advantage by increasing the probability of escape, particularly during handling.}, }
@article {pmid28310791, year = {1985}, author = {Nilsson, SG and Björkman, C and Forslund, P and Höglund, J}, title = {Egg predation in forest bird communities on islands and mainland.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {66}, number = {4}, pages = {511-515}, pmid = {28310791}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {To examine if differences in egg predation rates could explain differences in bird community composition, egg predation was studied in two years on small islands in a South Swedish lake and on the nearby mainland using both natural and artificial nests.In plots with similar vegetation, the combined density of ground- and tree-nesting bird species did not differ between the islands and the mainland. Egg predation rates were similar on islands and the mainland for natural Turdus nests in two years, and for artificial Turdus and Phylloscopus nests. Unmarked and unvisited experimental nests suffered similar rate of egg predation as marked and visited nests. Egg predation rates were higher on natural nests when artificial nests were also put out, increasing the total nest density. Initial egg predation rates in artificial nests were also higher than later when nest density had decreased by 75%.The egg predators involved differed for artificial Phylloscopus nests between the islands and the mainland. Small mammals were apparently responsible for 29% of the predation on the mainland, but none on the islands. Artificial Turdus nests near crow nests suffered from a higher egg predation rate than nests further away from crow nests. Daily survival rates of Turdus nests increased from the laying to the incubation and further to the fledging state.Egg predation can not explain differences in bird community composition between islands and mainland in the present case.}, }
@article {pmid28311869, year = {1985}, author = {Smiley, JT}, title = {Are chemical barriers necessary for evolution of butterfly-plant associations?.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {65}, number = {4}, pages = {580-583}, pmid = {28311869}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {The association between heliconiine butterflies and Passion flower vines is composed of three or more subassociations, in which each Heliconius species group feeds on a different Passiflora subgenus. The relationships are consistent with the adaptive zone hypothesis of Ehrlich and Raven, which would suggest that (1) species of the subgenus Plectostemma proliferated as a result of chemical barriers to herbivory, which created a herbivore-free adaptive zone in which speciation and diversification took place, and (2) species of the H. erato-charitonia group overcame these barriers and entered a competitor-free adaptive zone, in which they proliferated and speciated with those plants as hosts. The hypothesis that plant secondary chemicals were responsible for creating such barriers to herbivory was tested using heliconiine species as bioassays, in which reduced growth rates indicated presence of chemical barriers to feeding. Contrary to expectation, plants of the subgenus Plectostemma showed little or no chemical defense against any species of heliconiine caterpillar. In contrast many plants of the "primitive" subgenus Granadilla possessed significant chemical barriers against herbivory by heliconiine larvae, excepting those species in the H. numata-melpomene species group. I concluded that chemical barriers to feeding were not responsible for proliferation and diversification in the subgenus Plectostemma, nor did chemicals create a competitor-free "adaptive zone" in which the H. erato-charitonia species-group could proliferate and speciate. Chemical barriers may have been important in the evolution of the subgenus Granadilla-heliconiine association. I suggest that plant allelochemics are only one of many possible barriers to herbivory which can help create "adaptive zones" for plants and their herbivores, and that the patterns of butterfly foodplant specialization discussed by Ehrlich and Raven (1964) are not necessarily the result of biochemical adaptation and counteradaptation.}, }
@article {pmid29320239, year = {1984}, author = {Collins, BA and Macnichol, EF}, title = {MORPHOLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS AND MICROSPECTROPHOTOMETRIC DATA FROM PHOTORECEPTORS IN THE RETINA OF THE SEA RAVEN, HEMITRIPTERUS AMERICANUS.}, journal = {The Biological bulletin}, volume = {167}, number = {2}, pages = {437-444}, doi = {10.2307/1541288}, pmid = {29320239}, issn = {1939-8697}, abstract = {A histological survey of the retinas of some fishes has revealed an unusual cone formation. We repeatedly find these unusual triple cones in 10% of the retinas reviewed. To obtain further information about these photoreceptors, the sea raven, whose retina is known to contain them, was chosen for further study. Microspectrophotometric measurements were made to determine the peak absorbance of the visual pigment contained in the three individual outer segments. We report here the results of measurements made on triple cones found in the retina of the sea raven, Hemitripterus americanus.}, }
@article {pmid24896518, year = {1984}, author = {Røskaft, E and Espmark, Y}, title = {Sibling recognition in the rook (Corvus frugilegus).}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {9}, number = {2-3}, pages = {223-230}, doi = {10.1016/0376-6357(84)90042-1}, pmid = {24896518}, issn = {0376-6357}, abstract = {In this study we tested whether rook siblings were able to recognize each other vocally when 2-2 1 2 months-old and, if so, whether this recognition still persisted about 10 months later. Twelve rook nestlings were hand-reared. Vocal recognition by the young birds (aged 2-2 1 2 months) was tested. The birds responded significantly more frequently to the call of a sibling than to the call of a non-sibling. This indicates that audible cues are at least important for sibling recognition. The individual rooks were thereafter visually isolated, in 12 individual cages, for a further 10 months. The birds were then put together in an aviary and their social relationships studied. Siblings were significantly less aggressive towards each other than towards non-siblings and siblings remained close together significantly more often than non-siblings. The significance of sibling recognition is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid28310516, year = {1982}, author = {Loman, J}, title = {A model of clutch size determination in birds.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {52}, number = {2}, pages = {253-257}, doi = {10.1007/BF00363845}, pmid = {28310516}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {This paper tests the hypothesis that the timing and the size of bird clutches are determined by (1) a tendency to delay reproduction so that the female can store enough internal resources for laying a large clutch; (2) a tendency to breed early because survival of offspring late in the breeding season might be lower than early. These factors are approximated by linear functions in a model. The model predicts that there will be a correlation between early breeding females and those that have large clutches. This agrees with published data for several bird species. Predictions from the model are also made of clutch size and the impact on final clutch-size if one egg is removed or added during the laying. These predictions were compared with data from a crow (Corvus cornix) population and were supported if it is assumed that the formation of an egg is a relatively costly process. More precisely, the model is supported if the formation of an extra egg requires a delay of about four or five days before laying can begin.}, }
@article {pmid28311093, year = {1981}, author = {Darley-Hill, S and Johnson, WC}, title = {Acorn dispersal by the blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata).}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {50}, number = {2}, pages = {231-232}, doi = {10.1007/BF00348043}, pmid = {28311093}, issn = {1432-1939}, abstract = {Blue jays transported and cached 133,000 acorns from a stand of Quercus palustris trees in Blacksburg, Virginia, representing 54% of the total mast crop. A further 20% (49,000) of the mast crop was eaten by jays at the collecting site. A large proportion of the nuts remaining beneath the collecting trees was parasitized by curculionid larvae. The number of nuts transported per caching trip ranged from 1-5 with a mean of 2.2. Mean distance between seed trees and caches was 1.1 km (range: 100 m-1.9 km). Jays appeared to choose species with small- to medium-sized nuts (Quercus palustris, Q. phellos, Q. velutina, Fagus grandifolia) and avoided the larger nuts of Q. borealis and Q. alba.Nuts were cached singly within a few meters of each other and were always covered with debris. Covering may improve germination and early growth by protecting the nut and radicle from desiccation. The vegetation structure of most suburban caching sites was analogous to open, disturbed environments in more natural landscapes. The presence of numerous Quercus seedlings in jay caching sites and the tendency for jays to cache nuts in environments conducive to germination and early growth indicate that blue jays facilitate colonization of members of the Fagaceae.}, }
@article {pmid28581143, year = {1980}, author = {Tordoff, W}, title = {SELECTIVE PREDATION OF GRAY JAYS, PERISOREUS CANADENSIS, UPON BOREAL CHORUS FROGS, PSEUDACRIS TRISERIATA.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {34}, number = {5}, pages = {1004-1008}, doi = {10.1111/j.1558-5646.1980.tb04039.x}, pmid = {28581143}, issn = {1558-5646}, }
@article {pmid28136217, year = {1979}, author = {Lapsley, DK and Enright, RD}, title = {The Effects of Social Desirability, Intelligence, and Milieu on an American Validation of the Conservatism Scale.}, journal = {The Journal of social psychology}, volume = {107}, number = {1}, pages = {9-14}, doi = {10.1080/00224545.1979.9922668}, pmid = {28136217}, issn = {1940-1183}, abstract = {The purpose of this investigation was to validate the Conservatism Scale (C-scale) with American Ss, and in the process, test the effects of conservative milieu, dogmatism, social desirability, and intelligence on C-scale responses. It was expected that the C-scale would be related to both dogmatism and intelligence, but not to social desirability. Ninety-four university students from the southern United States were administered the Conservatism, Rokeach's Dogmatism, Crowne-Marlowe's Social Desirability, and Raven's IQ scales. The results indicate that the C-scale is not contaminated by a social desirability response set. Significant positive correlations were obtained with the dogmatism scale, while intelligence was negatively related in a small, though significant way with conservatism. These results are discussed in terms of test format and mediation processes. That the C-scale was administered in a conservative culture had no effect on the pattern of C-scale responses, and there was no evidence that the expression of social attitudes was in any way divorced from underlying personality structure. The results indicate that the C-scale is a reliable and valid measure and can be satisfactorily used with American samples.}, }
@article {pmid24924254, year = {1977}, author = {Tamm, S}, title = {Social dominance in captive jackdaws (Corvus monedula).}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {2}, number = {3}, pages = {293-299}, doi = {10.1016/0376-6357(77)90032-8}, pmid = {24924254}, issn = {0376-6357}, abstract = {Social hierarchy was studied in two flocks (14 and 10 individuals, respectively) of captive jackdaws. Parent birds acquired high-ranking positions during the nesting period. Outside the breeding season the hierarchy seemed to be stable. Males generally dominated females. When the top-ranking male arrived at the feeding place it tended to supplant one of the feeding birds rather than choose an unoccupied site.}, }
@article {pmid24896432, year = {1977}, author = {Beaugrand, JP}, title = {Test of magnetic sensitivity in seven species of European birds using a cardiac nociceptive conditioning procedure.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {2}, number = {2}, pages = {113-127}, doi = {10.1016/0376-6357(77)90015-8}, pmid = {24896432}, issn = {0376-6357}, abstract = {An attempt was made to show magnetic sensitivity in seven species of European birds captured during their migration. The test was done on the following species: Streptopelia turtur (N=8), Streptopelia decaocto (N=2), Corvus monedula (N=6); one individual of the following: Corvus corone c., Turdus philomelos, Turdus viscivorus, Anas penelope. Most of the individuals were first subjected to conditioning to a light stimulus. They were then subjected to differential nociceptive conditioning to 100 presentations of a magnetic stimulus (CS+) reversing the vertical Z component of the local magnetic field and 100 presentations of a control stimulus for artifacts (CS-). The two stimuli were randomly interdigited. Cardiac activity was used as an index of reactivity throughout the study. Results indicate that the magnetic stimuli were not used by the birds as a cue presaging the forthcoming shock. We discuss the validity of the stimuli and paradigms used to demonstrate magnetic sensitivity in birds. These negative findings are related to possible artifactual effects explaining suggestive results in homing and zugunruhe experiments, and to local processing of magnetic effects without access to higher processes such as learning and arousal regulations.}, }
@article {pmid26828601, year = {1972}, author = {Flores, MB and Evans, GT}, title = {SOME DIFFERENCES IN COGNITIVE ABILITIES BETWEEN SELECTED CANADIAN AND FILIPINO STUDENTS.}, journal = {Multivariate behavioral research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {175-191}, doi = {10.1207/s15327906mbr0702_4}, pmid = {26828601}, issn = {0027-3171}, abstract = {This study was designed to compare both profiles of mean performance and relationships between performances on cognitive tasks in groups of children and adolescents in Canada and The Philippines with similar educational experience. A battery of eighteen tests, including the Raven's Progressive Matrices (1968), the SRA Primary Mental Abilities Tests, and selected tests from the ETS kit, was used. The samples included 219 students from an urban centre in Ontario, boys, and girls in grades 6 and 8 from private, public, and Catholic schools, and 203 students in Manila from similar sources. The results demonstrate the existence of two general factors of intellectual funotioning, one concerned with conceptual or relational thinking and the other with forming associations. There was a marked difference between the profiles of mean factor scores for the Canadian and Filipino groups, but an equally marked similarity within groups.}, }
@article {pmid29000151, year = {1889}, author = {Khan, U}, title = {Tape Worm in the Crow.}, journal = {The Indian medical gazette}, volume = {24}, number = {2}, pages = {63}, pmid = {29000151}, issn = {0019-5863}, }
@article {pmid29001293, year = {1885}, author = {}, title = {The Crow and the Country Doctor.}, journal = {The Indian medical gazette}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {15}, pmid = {29001293}, issn = {0019-5863}, }
@article {pmid24725170, year = {2014}, author = {Soler, JJ and Pérez-Contreras, T and De Neve, L and Macías-Sánchez, E and Møller, AP and Soler, M}, title = {Recognizing odd smells and ejection of brood parasitic eggs. An experimental test in magpies of a novel defensive trait against brood parasitism.}, journal = {Journal of evolutionary biology}, volume = {27}, number = {6}, pages = {1265-1270}, doi = {10.1111/jeb.12377}, pmid = {24725170}, issn = {1420-9101}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Host-Parasite Interactions ; *Nesting Behavior ; *Odorants ; *Olfactory Perception ; Passeriformes/parasitology/*physiology ; *Recognition, Psychology ; }, abstract = {One of the most important defensive host traits against brood parasitism is the detection and ejection of parasitic eggs from their nests. Here, we explore the possible role of olfaction in this defensive behaviour. We performed egg-recognition tests in magpie Pica pica nests with model eggs resembling those of parasitic great spotted cuckoos Clamator glandarius. In one of the experiment, experimental model eggs were exposed to strong or moderate smell of tobacco smoke, whereas those of a third group (control) were cleaned with disinfecting wipes and kept in boxes containing odourless cotton. Results showed that model eggs with strong tobacco scent were more frequently ejected compared with control ones. In another experiment, models were smeared with scents from cloacal wash from magpies (control), cloacal wash or uropygial secretions from cuckoos, or human scents. This experiment resulted in a statistically significant effect of treatment in unparasitized magpie nests in which control model eggs handled by humans were more often rejected. These results provide the first evidence that hosts of brood parasites use their olfactory ability to detect and eject foreign eggs from their nests. These findings may have important consequences for handling procedures of experimental eggs used in egg-recognition tests, in addition to our understanding of interactions between brood parasites and their hosts.}, }
@article {pmid24711798, year = {2014}, author = {Little, DR and Lewandowsky, S and Craig, S}, title = {Working memory capacity and fluid abilities: the more difficult the item, the more more is better.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {239}, pmid = {24711798}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {The relationship between fluid intelligence and working memory is of fundamental importance to understanding how capacity-limited structures such as working memory interact with inference abilities to determine intelligent behavior. Recent evidence has suggested that the relationship between a fluid abilities test, Raven's Progressive Matrices, and working memory capacity (WMC) may be invariant across difficulty levels of the Raven's items. We show that this invariance can only be observed if the overall correlation between Raven's and WMC is low. Simulations of Raven's performance revealed that as the overall correlation between Raven's and WMC increases, the item-wise point bi-serial correlations involving WMC are no longer constant but increase considerably with item difficulty. The simulation results were confirmed by two studies that used a composite measure of WMC, which yielded a higher correlation between WMC and Raven's than reported in previous studies. As expected, with the higher overall correlation, there was a significant positive relationship between Raven's item difficulty and the extent of the item-wise correlation with WMC.}, }
@article {pmid24709286, year = {2014}, author = {Giofrè, D and Mammarella, IC and Cornoldi, C}, title = {The relationship among geometry, working memory, and intelligence in children.}, journal = {Journal of experimental child psychology}, volume = {123}, number = {}, pages = {112-128}, doi = {10.1016/j.jecp.2014.01.002}, pmid = {24709286}, issn = {1096-0457}, mesh = {Achievement ; Aptitude Tests ; Child ; Concept Formation ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intuition ; Male ; *Mathematical Concepts ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Models, Psychological ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {Although geometry is one of the main areas of mathematical learning, the cognitive processes underlying geometry-related academic achievement have not been studied in detail. This study explored the relationship among working memory (WM), intelligence (g factor), and geometry in 176 typically developing children attending school in their fourth and fifth grades. Structural equation modeling showed that approximately 40% of the variance in academic achievement and in intuitive geometry (which is assumed to be independent of a person's cultural background) was explained by WM and the g factor. After taking intelligence and WM into account, intuitive geometry was no longer significantly related to academic achievement in geometry. We also found intuitive geometry to be closely related to fluid intelligence (as measured by Raven's colored progressive matrices) and reasoning ability, whereas academic achievement in geometry depended largely on WM. These results were confirmed by a series of regressions in which we estimated the contributions of WM, intelligence, and intuitive geometry to the unique and shared variance explaining academic achievement in geometry. Theoretical and educational implications of the relationship among WM, intelligence, and academic achievement in geometry are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid24706029, year = {2014}, author = {Komisaruk, BR and Siegel, HI and Del Cerro, MC and Gonzalez-Mariscal, G and Fleming, AS and Silver, R}, title = {Jay S. Rosenblatt, Ph.D., 1924-2014.}, journal = {Developmental psychobiology}, volume = {56}, number = {5}, pages = {1164-1165}, doi = {10.1002/dev.21216}, pmid = {24706029}, issn = {1098-2302}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Psychology/*history ; }, }
@article {pmid24703187, year = {2014}, author = {van der Kruijs, SJ and Jagannathan, SR and Bodde, NM and Besseling, RM and Lazeron, RH and Vonck, KE and Boon, PA and Cluitmans, PJ and Hofman, PA and Backes, WH and Aldenkamp, AP and Jansen, JF}, title = {Resting-state networks and dissociation in psychogenic non-epileptic seizures.}, journal = {Journal of psychiatric research}, volume = {54}, number = {}, pages = {126-133}, doi = {10.1016/j.jpsychires.2014.03.010}, pmid = {24703187}, issn = {1879-1379}, mesh = {Adult ; Brain/blood supply/*pathology ; *Brain Mapping ; Dissociative Disorders/*etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Oxygen/blood ; Psychophysiologic Disorders/*physiopathology ; *Rest ; *Seizures/complications/pathology/psychology ; Statistics as Topic ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) are epilepsy-like episodes which have an emotional rather than organic origin. Although PNES have often been related to the process of dissociation, the psychopathology is still poorly understood. To elucidate underlying mechanisms, the current study applied independent component analysis (ICA) on resting-state fMRI to investigate alterations within four relevant networks, associated with executive, fronto-parietal, sensorimotor, and default mode activation, and within a visual network to examine specificity of between-group differences.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty-one patients with PNES without psychiatric or neurologic comorbidities and twenty-seven healthy controls underwent resting-state functional MR imaging at 3.0T (Philips Achieva). Additional neuropsychological testing included Raven's Matrices test and dissociation questionnaires. ICA with dual regression was used to identify resting-state networks in all participants, and spatial maps of the networks of interest were compared between patients and healthy controls.<br><br>RESULTS: Patients displayed higher dissociation scores, lower cognitive performance and increased contribution of the orbitofrontal, insular and subcallosal cortex in the fronto-parietal network; the cingulate and insular cortex in the executive control network; the cingulate gyrus, superior parietal lobe, pre- and postcentral gyri and supplemental motor cortex in the sensorimotor network; and the precuneus and (para-) cingulate gyri in the default-mode network. The connectivity strengths within these regions of interest significantly correlated with dissociation scores. No between-group differences were found within the visual network, which was examined to determine specificity of between-group differences.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: PNES patients displayed abnormalities in several resting-state networks that provide neuronal correlates for an underlying dissociation mechanism.}, }
@article {pmid24700839, year = {2014}, author = {Kaiser, J}, title = {The administrator: Jay Walsh.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {344}, number = {6179}, pages = {29}, doi = {10.1126/science.344.6179.29}, pmid = {24700839}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {*Administrative Personnel ; Biomedical Research/*economics/organization &amp; administration ; Budgets ; Financing, Government ; Illinois ; National Institutes of Health (U.S.)/economics ; Research Support as Topic/*organization &amp; administration ; United States ; Universities/*economics/organization &amp; administration ; }, }
@article {pmid24693807, year = {2013}, author = {Zagar, RJ and Kovach, JW and Basile, B and Hughes, JR and Grove, WM and Busch, KG and Zablocki, M and Osnowitz, W and Neuhengen, J and Liu, Y and Zagar, AK}, title = {Finding workers, offenders, or students most at-risk for violence: actuarial tests save lives and resources.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {113}, number = {3}, pages = {685-716}, doi = {10.2466/16.03.PR0.113x29z3}, pmid = {24693807}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Child ; Criminals/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; Humans ; Industry/statistics &amp; numerical data ; MMPI/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Mass Screening/*instrumentation/standards/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychometrics/*instrumentation/standards/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Risk ; Students/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Violence/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Workforce ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {147 adults (107 men, 40 women) and 89 adolescents (61 boys, 28 girls), selected randomly from referrals and volunteers, were given the Ammons Quick Test (QT), the Beck Suicide Scale (BSS), the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory Second (MMPI-2) or Adolescent Versions (MMPI-A), the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices, and the Standard Predictor (SP) of Violence Potential Adult or Adolescent Versions. The goals were to: (a) demonstrate computer and paper-and-pencil tests correlated; (b) validate tests to identify at-risk for violence; (c) show that identifying at-risk saves lives and resources; and (d) find which industries benefited from testing at-risk. Paper-and-pencil vs. computer test correlations (.83-.99), sensitivity (.97-.98), and specificity (.50-.97) were computed. Testing at-risk saves lives and resources. Critical industries for testing at-risk individuals may include airlines, energy generating industries, insurance, military, nonprofit-religious, prisoners, trucking or port workers, and veterans.}, }
@article {pmid24688856, year = {2014}, author = {Plotnik, JM and de Waal, FB}, title = {Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) reassure others in distress.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {2}, number = {}, pages = {e278}, pmid = {24688856}, issn = {2167-8359}, support = {P51 OD011132/OD/NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Contact directed by uninvolved bystanders toward others in distress, often termed consolation, is uncommon in the animal kingdom, thus far only demonstrated in the great apes, canines, and corvids. Whereas the typical agonistic context of such contact is relatively rare within natural elephant families, other causes of distress may trigger similar, other-regarding responses. In a study carried out at an elephant camp in Thailand, we found that elephants affiliated significantly more with other individuals through directed, physical contact and vocal communication following a distress event than in control periods. In addition, bystanders affiliated with each other, and matched the behavior and emotional state of the first distressed individual, suggesting emotional contagion. The initial distress responses were overwhelmingly directed toward ambiguous stimuli, thus making it difficult to determine if bystanders reacted to the distressed individual or showed a delayed response to the same stimulus. Nonetheless, the directionality of the contacts and their nature strongly suggest attention toward the emotional states of conspecifics. The elephants' behavior is therefore best classified with similar consolation responses by apes, possibly based on convergent evolution of empathic capacities.}, }
@article {pmid24686637, year = {2014}, author = {Sumetsky, M}, title = {CROW bottles.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {39}, number = {7}, pages = {1913-1916}, doi = {10.1364/OL.39.001913}, pmid = {24686637}, issn = {1539-4794}, abstract = {A coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW) bottle is a bottle-shaped nonuniform distribution of resonator and coupling parameters. This Letter solves the inverse problem for a CROW bottle, i.e., develops a simple analytical method that determines a CROW with the required group delay and dispersion characteristics. In particular, the parameters of CROWs exhibiting the group delay with zero dispersion (constant group delay) and constant dispersion (linear group delay) are found.}, }
@article {pmid24671829, year = {2014}, author = {Ostojić, L and Legg, EW and Shaw, RC and Cheke, LG and Mendl, M and Clayton, NS}, title = {Can male Eurasian jays disengage from their own current desire to feed the female what she wants?.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {10}, number = {3}, pages = {20140042}, pmid = {24671829}, issn = {1744-957X}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; //Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; *Food ; Male ; *Motivation ; *Social Behavior ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Humans' predictions of another person's behaviour are regularly influenced by what they themselves might know or want. In a previous study, we found that male Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius) could cater for their female partner's current desire when sharing food with her. Here, we tested the extent to which the males' decisions are influenced by their own current desire. When the males' and female's desires matched, males correctly shared the food that was desired by both. When the female's desire differed from their own, the males' decisions were not entirely driven by their own desires, suggesting that males also took the female's desire into account. Thus, the male jays' decisions about their mates' desires are partially biased by their own desire and might be based upon similar processes as those found in humans.}, }
@article {pmid24671752, year = {2014}, author = {Lim, SM and Brault, AC and van Amerongen, G and Sewbalaksing, VD and Osterhaus, ADME and Martina, BEE and Koraka, P}, title = {Susceptibility of European jackdaws (Corvus monedula) to experimental infection with lineage 1 and 2 West Nile viruses.}, journal = {The Journal of general virology}, volume = {95}, number = {Pt 6}, pages = {1320-1329}, pmid = {24671752}, issn = {1465-2099}, support = {CC999999//Intramural CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Crows/*virology ; Disease Susceptibility ; Europe ; Host Specificity ; Organ Specificity ; RNA Helicases/metabolism ; Sentinel Surveillance/veterinary ; Serine Endopeptidases/metabolism ; Species Specificity ; Viral Load ; Viral Nonstructural Proteins/metabolism ; Viremia/veterinary ; Virulence ; West Nile Fever/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/classification/*pathogenicity/physiology ; }, abstract = {Mass bird mortality has been observed in North America after the introduction of West Nile virus (WNV), most notably massive die-offs of American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos). In contrast, WNV epidemic activity in Europe has been characterized by very low incidences of bird mortality. As the general susceptibility of European corvids to strains of WNV remains in question, European jackdaws (Corvus monedula) were inoculated with WNV strains circulating currently in Greece (Greece-10), Italy (FIN and Ita09) and Hungary (578/10), as well as a North American (NY99) genotype with a demonstrated corvid virulence phenotype. Infection with all strains except WNV-FIN resulted in mortality. Viraemia was observed for birds inoculated with all strains and virus was detected in a series of organs upon necropsy. These results suggested that jackdaws could potentially function as a sentinel for following WNV transmission in Europe; however, elicited viraemia levels might be too low to allow for efficient transmission of virus to mosquitoes.}, }
@article {pmid24671252, year = {2014}, author = {Jelbert, SA and Taylor, AH and Cheke, LG and Clayton, NS and Gray, RD}, title = {Using the Aesop's fable paradigm to investigate causal understanding of water displacement by New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {e92895}, pmid = {24671252}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Aphorisms and Proverbs as Topic ; Crows/*physiology ; New Caledonia ; *Water ; }, abstract = {Understanding causal regularities in the world is a key feature of human cognition. However, the extent to which non-human animals are capable of causal understanding is not well understood. Here, we used the Aesop's fable paradigm--in which subjects drop stones into water to raise the water level and obtain an out of reach reward--to assess New Caledonian crows' causal understanding of water displacement. We found that crows preferentially dropped stones into a water-filled tube instead of a sand-filled tube; they dropped sinking objects rather than floating objects; solid objects rather than hollow objects, and they dropped objects into a tube with a high water level rather than a low one. However, they failed two more challenging tasks which required them to attend to the width of the tube, and to counter-intuitive causal cues in a U-shaped apparatus. Our results indicate that New Caledonian crows possess a sophisticated, but incomplete, understanding of the causal properties of displacement, rivalling that of 5-7 year old children.}, }
@article {pmid24667298, year = {2014}, author = {Yang, W and Liu, P and Wei, D and Li, W and Hitchman, G and Li, X and Qiu, J and Zhang, Q}, title = {Females and males rely on different cortical regions in Raven's Matrices reasoning capacity: evidence from a voxel-based morphometry study.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {e93104}, pmid = {24667298}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Female ; *Functional Neuroimaging ; Humans ; Male ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Prefrontal Cortex/*physiology ; Problem Solving/physiology ; *Sex Characteristics ; Thinking/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Raven's Matrices test (RMT) is a non-verbal test designed to assess individuals' ability to reason and solve new problems without relying extensively on declarative knowledge derived from schooling or previous experience. Despite a large number of behavioral studies that demonstrated gender differences in Raven's Matrices reasoning ability, no neural evidence supported this difference. In this study, voxel-based morphometry (VBM) was used in an attempt to uncover the gender-specific neural basis of Raven's Matrices reasoning ability as measured by the combined Raven's Matrices test (CRT) in 370 healthy young adults. The behavioral results showed no difference between males and females. However, the VBM results showed that the relationship between reasoning ability and regional gray matter volume (rGMV) differed between sexes. The association between CRT scores and rGMV in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (associated with visuospatial ability) was significantly greater in males than in females, whereas the reverse was true for the inferior frontal cortex (relating to verbal reasoning ability) and the medial frontal cortex (engaged in information binding) where the association was greater in females. These findings suggest that males and females use differently structured brains in different ways to achieve similar levels of overall Raven's Matrices reasoning ability.}, }
@article {pmid24665994, year = {2014}, author = {Kim, EJ and Han, JY and Lee, HK and He, QQ and Cho, JC and Wei, L and Wang, X and Li, L and Wei, L and Liang, H and Gao, X and Kim, BJ and Nam, GW}, title = {Effect of the regional environment on the skin properties and the early wrinkles in young Chinese women.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {20}, number = {4}, pages = {498-502}, doi = {10.1111/srt.12144}, pmid = {24665994}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Adult ; Body Water/*metabolism ; China ; *Climate ; Elastic Modulus/physiology ; *Environment ; Female ; Humans ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Skin/*chemistry ; Skin Aging/*ethnology/*physiology ; Urban Population/classification/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Water Loss, Insensible/*physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: There are ethnic differences in the skin characteristics, also the skin is susceptible to be influenced by the external environment such as UV radiation and the climates. It can be shown that the skin in same race or twins varies by the environment.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: This study was designed to investigate the skin characteristics and the early wrinkles of young Chinese women from four different regions, and to identify the correlation among the wrinkles, the other skin characteristics, and environmental conditions.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 441 healthy Chinese women aged between 20 and 35&#xa0;years participated in the study: 110 from Beijing, 110 from Shanghai, 111 from Wuhan, and 110 from Guangzhou. The skin hydration, sebum contents, TEWL, pH, elasticity, and wrinkles were measured on the crow's feet area.<br><br>RESULTS: There were regional differences in the skin characteristics and the wrinkles. Beijing women had dry skin and more wrinkles, but Guangzhou women had high sebum contents, low pH, and less wrinkles (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.01). Shanghai women's TEWL and Wuhan's women's skin elasticity were higher compared with that of women from other regions. The wrinkles' form (area, depth, and length) was different from region to region. Beijing women's wrinkles were deep and large, but Guangzhou women's wrinkles were shallow and small. The skin physical parameters that influenced the wrinkles were low sebum content and hydration, high TEWL, and pH (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: In the Chinese women aged 20-35&#xa0;years, the skin was influenced by the climates, so they had regionally a different skin. The skin hydration, sebum contents, TEWL, and pH can affect the early wrinkle formation than skin elasticity.}, }
@article {pmid24664135, year = {2014}, author = {Slenker, NR and Limpisvasti, O and Mohr, K and Aguinaldo, A and Elattrache, NS}, title = {Biomechanical comparison of the interval throwing program and baseball pitching: upper extremity loads in training and rehabilitation.}, journal = {The American journal of sports medicine}, volume = {42}, number = {5}, pages = {1226-1232}, doi = {10.1177/0363546514526152}, pmid = {24664135}, issn = {1552-3365}, mesh = {Acceleration ; Analysis of Variance ; Baseball/injuries/*physiology ; Biomechanical Phenomena/physiology ; Humans ; Kinetics ; Male ; Rotation ; Torque ; Upper Extremity/*physiology ; Video Recording ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The interval throwing progression has been part of baseball rehabilitation and conditioning for decades, yet little is known about the upper extremity loads an athlete is subjected to during this progression.<br><br>HYPOTHESIS: A biomechanical comparison of fastball pitching, variable-effort pitching, and throwing various flat-ground distances will show significant torque differences in the throwing shoulder and elbow.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive laboratory study.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty-nine healthy college baseball pitchers were analyzed using a quantitative motion analysis system. The participants threw from flat ground at distances of 18, 27, 37, and 55 m, having been instructed to throw "hard, on a horizontal line." The participants then threw fastballs 18.4 m from a mound at 3 different effort levels: 60%, 80%, and full effort. The kinetic values for humeral internal rotational torque (HIRT) and elbow valgus load (EVL) were extracted for each throw. Repeated-measures analyses of variance (ANOVAs) were used to compare all 7 throwing conditions within pitchers. The kinetic data were also compared against ball velocity to evaluate throwing efficiency. A separate analysis was conducted using a 3-level repeated-measures ANOVA with post hoc paired t tests comparing just the variable-effort throws from the mound.<br><br>RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were found in either HIRT or EVL between any of the flat-ground distances and throwing from the mound (P > .05). Despite similar biomechanical loads compared with the mound, throwing from flat ground showed significantly decreased ball velocity (82% of maximum). Statistically significant differences were found in humeral internal rotational torque and elbow valgus load between fastball pitching off the mound at 60% and 100%, as these parameters increased with throwing effort (P < .05). At 60% perceived effort from the mound, pitchers generated forces of 76% and ball speeds approaching 84% of maximum.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Partial-effort pitching demonstrates significantly lower loads on the shoulder and elbow. Flat-ground throwing at even the shortest distances had similar biomechanical loads compared with pitching from the mound, yet at significantly lower ball velocity. This illustrates the mechanical advantage and increased efficiency of throwing from a mound. No increase in shoulder or elbow loads was seen with increasing distances from flat ground, as pitchers began using a "crow hop" for the longer distances, facilitating the throw with their lower extremity. The mechanical advantage of throwing from a mound or using the crow hop is likely protective during rehabilitation and training throws.<br><br>CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The findings of this study may be used to improve rehabilitation programs designed for baseball players returning from shoulder or elbow injury.}, }
@article {pmid24653032, year = {2014}, author = {Canestrari, D and Bolopo, D and Turlings, TC and Röder, G and Marcos, JM and Baglione, V}, title = {From parasitism to mutualism: unexpected interactions between a cuckoo and its host.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {343}, number = {6177}, pages = {1350-1352}, doi = {10.1126/science.1249008}, pmid = {24653032}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Acids/analysis/metabolism ; Animals ; Birds/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; Bodily Secretions/chemistry ; Crows/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; Female ; Indoles/analysis/metabolism ; Male ; *Nesting Behavior ; Phenols/analysis/metabolism ; Predatory Behavior ; Reproduction ; Sulfur Compounds/analysis/metabolism ; *Symbiosis ; Volatilization ; }, abstract = {Avian brood parasites lay eggs in the nests of other birds, which raise the unrelated chicks and typically suffer partial or complete loss of their own brood. However, carrion crows Corvus corone corone can benefit from parasitism by the great spotted cuckoo Clamator glandarius. Parasitized nests have lower rates of predation-induced failure due to production of a repellent secretion by cuckoo chicks, but among nests that are successful, those with cuckoo chicks fledge fewer crows. The outcome of these counterbalancing effects fluctuates between parasitism and mutualism each season, depending on the intensity of predation pressure.}, }
@article {pmid24641609, year = {2014}, author = {Mehryan, P and Zartab, H and Rajabi, A and Pazhoohi, N and Firooz, A}, title = {Assessment of efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on infraorbital dark circles and crow's feet wrinkles.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {72-78}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.12072}, pmid = {24641609}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Adult ; *Dermatologic Agents ; Esthetics ; Eyelids ; Humans ; Injections, Intradermal ; Middle Aged ; Patient Satisfaction ; *Platelet-Rich Plasma ; *Skin Aging ; Skin Pigmentation/drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Infraorbital skin hyperpigmentation, commonly called dark circles, and crow's feet wrinkles are common cosmetic concerns. Various methods of treatment have been evaluated with variable outcomes.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: This study was performed to assess the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection for treating periorbital dark circles and crow's feet.<br><br>METHODS: Ten participants with a mean age of 41.2&#xa0;years were treated in a single session with intradermal injections of 1.5&#xa0;mL PRP into tear trough area and crow's feet wrinkles on each side. The effects on melanin content, color homogeneity of the treated area, epidermal stratum corneum hydration, and wrinkle volume and visibility index were compared 3&#xa0;months after treatment with baseline. Physician's global assessment and participants' satisfaction and any potential side effects were also assessed.<br><br>RESULTS: The improvement in infraorbital color homogeneity was statistically significant (P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.010), but no statistically significant changes were observed in melanin content, stratum corneum hydration, wrinkle volume, and visibility index. Participant's satisfaction score and physician's global assessment score were 2.2 and 1.7, respectively, on a 0-3 scale.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Platelet-rich plasma may have the potential to improve infraorbital dark circle in terms of color homogeneity of the region, though this remains to be proven using larger, controlled studies using multiple injections.}, }
@article {pmid24641093, year = {2014}, author = {Williams, BR and Sullivan, SK and Morra, LF and Williams, JR and Donovick, PJ}, title = {The similar effects of verbal and non-verbal intervening tasks on word recall in an elderly population.}, journal = {The Clinical neuropsychologist}, volume = {28}, number = {3}, pages = {505-513}, doi = {10.1080/13854046.2014.897758}, pmid = {24641093}, issn = {1744-4144}, mesh = {Aged ; *Aging/psychology ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Mental Recall ; Middle Aged ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; *Reactive Inhibition ; *Verbal Learning ; *Vocabulary ; }, abstract = {Vulnerability to retroactive interference has been shown to increase with cognitive aging. Consistent with the findings of memory and aging literature, the authors of the California Verbal Learning Test-II (CVLT-II) suggest that a non-verbal task be administered during the test's delay interval to minimize the effects of retroactive interference on delayed recall. The goal of the present study was to determine the extent to which retroactive interference caused by non-verbal and verbal intervening tasks affects recall of verbal information in non-demented, older adults. The effects of retroactive interference on recall of words during Long-Delay recall on the California Verbal Learning Test-II (CVLT-II) were evaluated. Participants included 85 adults age 60 and older. During a 20-minute delay interval on the CVLT-II, participants received either a verbal (WAIS-III Vocabulary or Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-IIIB) or non-verbal (Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices or WAIS-III Block Design) intervening task. Similarly to previous research with young adults (Williams &amp; Donovick, 2008), older adults recalled the same number of words across all groups, regardless of the type of intervening task. These findings suggest that the administration of verbal intervening tasks during the CVLT-II do not elicit more retroactive interference than non-verbal intervening tasks, and thus verbal tasks need not be avoided during the delay interval of the CVLT-II.}, }
@article {pmid24638877, year = {2014}, author = {Legg, EW and Clayton, NS}, title = {Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius) conceal caches from onlookers.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {17}, number = {5}, pages = {1223-1226}, pmid = {24638877}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior/*psychology ; Female ; Food ; Male ; *Social Behavior ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {Animals that cache food risk having their stored food pilfered by conspecifics. Previous research has shown that a number of food-caching species of corvid use strategies that decrease the probability of conspecifics pilfering their caches. In this experiment, we investigated whether Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius) would choose between caching behind an opaque and caching behind a transparent barrier whilst being observed by a conspecific. If caching in out-of-sight locations is a strategy to prevent conspecifics from pilfering these caches, then the jays should place a greater proportion of caches behind the opaque barrier when being observed than when caching in private. In accordance with this prediction, jays cached a greater proportion of food behind the opaque barrier when they were observed than when they cached in private. These results suggest that Eurasian jays may opt to cache in out-of-view locations to reduce the likelihood of conspecifics pilfering their caches.}, }
@article {pmid24632351, year = {2014}, author = {Melbourne Chambers, R and Morrison-Levy, N and Chang, S and Tapper, J and Walker, S and Tulloch-Reid, M}, title = {Cognition, academic achievement, and epilepsy in school-age children: a case-control study in a developing country.}, journal = {Epilepsy &amp; behavior : E&amp;B}, volume = {33}, number = {}, pages = {39-44}, doi = {10.1016/j.yebeh.2014.02.002}, pmid = {24632351}, issn = {1525-5069}, mesh = {*Achievement ; Attention ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; *Cognition ; Developing Countries ; Educational Status ; Epilepsy/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Jamaica ; Male ; Memory ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {We conducted a case-control study of 33 Jamaican children 7 to 12years old with uncomplicated epilepsy and 33 of their classroom peers matched for age and gender to determine whether epilepsy resulted in differences in cognitive ability and school achievement and if socioeconomic status or the environment had a moderating effect on any differences. Intelligence, language, memory, attention, executive function, and mathematics ability were assessed using selected tests from NEPSY, WISCR, TeaCh, WRAT3 - expanded, and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices. The child's environment at home was measured using the Middle Childhood HOME inventory. Socioeconomic status was determined from a combination of household, crowding, possessions, and sanitation. We compared the characteristics of the cases and controls and used random effects regression models (using the matched pair as the cluster) to examine the relationship between cognition and epilepsy. We found that there was no significant difference in IQ, but children with epilepsy had lower scores on tests of memory (p<0.05), language (p<0.05), and attention (p<0.01) compared with their controls. In random effects models, epilepsy status had a significant effect on memory (coefficient=-0.14, CI: -0.23, -0.05), language (coefficient=-0.13, CI: -0.23, -0.04), and mathematics ability (coefficient=-0.01, CI: -0.02, -0.00). Adjustment for the home environment and socioeconomic status and inclusion of interaction terms for these variables did not alter these effects. In conclusion, we found that epilepsy status in Jamaican children has a significant effect on performance on tests of memory, language, and mathematics and that this effect is not modified or explained by socioeconomic status or the child's home environment.}, }
@article {pmid24611615, year = {2014}, author = {Young, A and Stillman, R and Smith, MJ and Korstjens, AH}, title = {An experimental study of vertebrate scavenging behavior in a Northwest European woodland context.}, journal = {Journal of forensic sciences}, volume = {59}, number = {5}, pages = {1333-1342}, doi = {10.1111/1556-4029.12468}, pmid = {24611615}, issn = {1556-4029}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Birds ; Deer ; Europe ; *Feeding Behavior ; Forests ; Mice ; *Postmortem Changes ; Sciuridae ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {Vertebrate scavengers can modify surface deposited human remains which can hinder forensic investigations. The effects of such scavenging vary between species and regions. Published research into the effects of the scavenging of human remains is dominated by work from North America with few studies covering Northwestern Europe. Forensic scientists, investigators, and police search officers in Northwestern Europe are often left questioning on a basic level as to which scavengers are active and how they might affect human remains. This paper presents the results of a field study utilizing deer (Cervus nippon; Capreolus capreolus) as surface deposits observed by motion detection cameras in a British woodland. The most common avian and rodent scavenger species recorded included the buzzard (Buteo buteo), carrion crow (Corvus corone), wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus), and gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis). The scavenging behaviors observed were affected by seasonality, rates of decomposition, and insect activity. Scavenging by buzzards, unlike carrion crows, was most frequent during fall to winter and prior to insect activity. Overall, avian scavengers modified and scavenged soft tissue. Rodents scavenged both fresh and skeletonized remains with gray squirrels only scavenging skeletal remains. Wood mice were most active in winter and scavenged both soft tissue and bone.}, }
@article {pmid24601771, year = {2014}, author = {Kojima, W and Sugiura, S and Makihara, H and Ishikawa, Y and Takanashi, T}, title = {Rhinoceros beetles suffer male-biased predation by mammalian and avian predators.}, journal = {Zoological science}, volume = {31}, number = {3}, pages = {109-115}, doi = {10.2108/zsj.31.109}, pmid = {24601771}, issn = {0289-0003}, mesh = {Animals ; Coleoptera/genetics/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Predatory Behavior ; Raccoon Dogs/*physiology ; Selection, Genetic ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {Male sexually-selected traits often impose an increased risk of predation on their bearers, causing male-biased predation. We investigated whether males of the sap-feeding Japanese rhinoceros beetle Trypoxylus dichotomus were more susceptible to predation than females by comparing the morphology of beetles caught in bait traps with the remains of beetles found on the ground. The males of this species are larger than the females and have a horn on the head. We found that predation pressure was greater for males than for females, and that larger individuals of both sexes were more vulnerable to predation. We identified two predators, the raccoon dog Nyctereutes procyonoides and jungle crow Corvus macrorhynchos, by monitoring sap-site trees with infrared video cameras. Raccoon dogs visited sap-site trees at night, while crows came after daybreak. The highest frequency of visits by both predators was observed in the first half of August, which matches the peak season of T. dichotomus. Raccoon dogs often left bite marks on the remains of prey, whereas crows did not. Bite marks were found on most of the remains collected at two distant localities, which suggested that predation by raccoon dogs is common. Size- and sex-dependent differences in the conspicuousness and active period of T. dichotomus probably explain these biased predation patterns. Our results suggest that having a large horn/body is costly in terms of the increased risk of predation. Predation cost may act as a stabilizing selection pressure against the further exaggeration of male sexual traits.}, }
@article {pmid24599216, year = {2014}, author = {Selva, N and Berezowska-Cnota, T and Elguero-Claramunt, I}, title = {Unforeseen effects of supplementary feeding: ungulate baiting sites as hotspots for ground-nest predation.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {e90740}, pmid = {24599216}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Geography ; Mammals/*physiology ; Mice ; Nesting Behavior/*physiology ; Poland ; Predatory Behavior/*physiology ; Probability ; Seasons ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Despite the ubiquity and magnitude of food provision to wildlife, our understanding of its ecological effects and conservation implications is very limited. Supplementary feeding of ungulates, still one of the main paradigms of game management in Europe, occurs in natural areas on an enormous scale. We investigated the indirect effects of this practice on nest predation risk in the Polish Eastern Carpathians (Bieszczady Mountains). We hypothesized that the predators attracted to ungulate baiting sites would also forage for alternative prey nearby, increasing the nest predation risk for ground-nesting birds in the vicinity. We conducted a paired experiment by placing artificial nests (N=120) in feeding and control sites (N=12) at different distances from the ungulate feeding site. We also documented the use of three ungulate feeding sites by potential nest predators with automatic cameras. The proportion of depredated nests was 30% higher in the vicinity of feeding sites than at control sites (65%± 31.5 vs 35%± 32.1). The probability of a nest being depredated significantly increased with time and at shorter distances from the feeding site. We predicted that the area within 1-km distance from the feeding site would have a high risk (>0.5) of nest predation. We recorded 13 species of potential ground-nest predators at ungulate baiting sites. Most frequent were Eurasian jays Garrulus glandarius, mice and voles Muroidea, ravens Corvus corax, brown bears Ursus arctos, and wild boar Sus scrofa. Nest predators made most use of supplementary feeding sites (82% pictures with predators vs 8% with ungulates, the target group). Our study alerts of the impacts of ungulate feeding on alternative prey; this is of special concern when affecting protected species. We urge for a sensible management of ungulate feeding, which considers potential indirect effects on other species and the spatial and temporal components of food provision.}, }
@article {pmid24597991, year = {2015}, author = {Rindermann, H and Stiegmaier, EM and Meisenberg, G}, title = {Cognitive ability of preschool, primary and secondary school children in Costa Rica.}, journal = {Journal of biosocial science}, volume = {47}, number = {3}, pages = {281-310}, doi = {10.1017/S0021932014000066}, pmid = {24597991}, issn = {1469-7599}, mesh = {Austria ; Body Height ; Body Mass Index ; Child ; Child Behavior/psychology ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Costa Rica ; Family Characteristics ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Literacy/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Parents/psychology ; Schools/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Students/psychology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {Cognitive abilities of children in Costa Rica and Austria were compared using three age groups (N = 385/366). Cognitive ability tests (mental speed, culture reduced/fluid intelligence, literacy/crystallized intelligence) were applied that differed in the extent to which they refer to school-related knowledge. Preschool children (kindergarten, 5-6 years old, N(CR) = 80, N(Au) = 51) were assessed with the Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM), primary school children (4th grade, 9-11 years old, N(CR) = 71, N(Au) = 71) with ZVT (a trail-making test), Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) and items from PIRLS-Reading and TIMSS-Mathematics, and secondary school students (15-16 years old, N(CR) = 48, N(Au) = 48) with ZVT, Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM) and items from PISA-Reading and PISA-Mathematics. Additionally, parents and pupils were given questionnaires covering family characteristics and instruction. Average cognitive abilities were higher in Austria (Greenwich-IQ M(CR) = 87 and M(Au) = 99, d(IQ) = 12 points) and differences were smaller in preschool than in secondary school (d(IQ) = 7 vs 20 points). Differences in crystallized intelligence were larger than in fluid intelligence (mental speed: d(IQ) = 12, Raven: d(IQ) = 10, student achievement tests: d(IQ) = 17 IQ points). Differences were larger in comparisons at the level of g-factors. Austrian children were also taller (6.80 cm, d = 1.07 SD), but had lower body mass index (BMI(CR) = 19.35 vs BMI(Au) = 17.59, d = -0.89 SD). Different causal hypotheses explaining these differences are compared.}, }
@article {pmid24597118, year = {2013}, author = {Dipineto, L and Borrelli, L and Pepe, P and Fioretti, A and Caputo, V and Cringoli, G and Rinaldi, L}, title = {Synanthropic birds and parasites.}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {57}, number = {4}, pages = {756-758}, doi = {10.1637/10602-062713-Reg.1}, pmid = {24597118}, issn = {0005-2086}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology ; *Birds ; Ectoparasitic Infestations/epidemiology/parasitology/*veterinary ; Helminthiasis, Animal/epidemiology/*parasitology ; Helminths/*physiology ; Insecta/*physiology ; Italy/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {This paper describes the parasitologic findings for 60 synanthropic bird carcasses recovered in the Campania region of southern Italy. Birds consisted of 20 yellow-legged gulls (Larus michahellis), 15 rock pigeons (Columba livia), 15 common kestrels (Falco tinnunculus), and 10 carrion crows (Corvus corone). Each carcass was examined to detect the presence of ectoparasites and then necropsied to detect helminths. Ectoparasites occurred in 100% of the birds examined. In particular, chewing lice were recovered with a prevalence of 100%, whereas Pseudolynchia canariensis (Hippoboscidae) were found only in pigeons with a prevalence of 80%. Regarding endoparasites, a total of seven helminth species were identified: three nematodes (Ascaridia columbae, Capillaria columbae, Physaloptera alata), one cestoda (Raillietina tetragona), one trematoda (Cardiocephalus longicollis), and two acanthocephalans (Centrorhynchus globocaudatus and Centrorhynchus buteonis). The findings of the present study add data to the parasitologic scenario of synanthropic birds. This is important because parasitic infection can lead to serious health problems when combined with other factors and may affect flying performance and predatory effectiveness.}, }
@article {pmid24591392, year = {2014}, author = {Canova, M and Bombardi, C and De Sordi, N and Clavenzani, P and Grandis, A}, title = {Anatomy and histology of the Fibrocartilago humerocapsularis in some species of European wild birds.}, journal = {Anatomical record (Hoboken, N.J. : 2007)}, volume = {297}, number = {7}, pages = {1189-1194}, doi = {10.1002/ar.22898}, pmid = {24591392}, issn = {1932-8494}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Shoulder Joint/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {The occurrence and structure of the fibrocartilago humerocapsularis (FHC) in the shoulders of 72 subjects of various species of wild birds were evaluated by gross dissection and histological examination with the purpose of increasing the body of knowledge regarding this structure and verifying the functional hypotheses submitted in the past in other species. The results showed that the FHC has a conical shape with a narrow cavity on the inside. The structure is heterogeneous in the various species and consists of different tissues, such as hyaline cartilage, fibrous cartilage, and bone. From the data obtained in this study, there does not appear to be any correlation between ossification and the weight of the prey lifted, wing shape, and aging. This study also provided interesting preliminary data regarding the ossification of the FHC. In fact, in the Hooded Crow (Corvus cornix), the ossification seemed to be correlated with the mechanical stimulation of flying. Additional studies are necessary to confirm this hypothesis.}, }
@article {pmid24586493, year = {2014}, author = {Feng, L and Li, X and Yu, Q and Ning, X and Dou, J and Zou, J and Zhang, L and Wang, S and Hu, X and Bao, Z}, title = {A scallop IGF binding protein gene: molecular characterization and association of variants with growth traits.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {2}, pages = {e89039}, pmid = {24586493}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Cloning, Molecular ; Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental ; Genetic Association Studies ; *Genetic Variation ; Insulin-Like Growth Factor Binding Proteins/*genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Pectinidae/*genetics/*growth &amp; development ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; *Quantitative Trait, Heritable ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Sequence Homology, Amino Acid ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Scallops represent economically important aquaculture shellfish. The identification of genes and genetic variants related to scallop growth could benefit high-yielding scallop breeding. The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system is essential for growth and development, with IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs) serving as the major regulators of IGF actions. Although an effect of IGF on growth was detected in bivalve, IGFBP has not been reported, and members of the IGF system have not been characterized in scallop.<br><br>RESULTS: We cloned and characterized an IGFBP (PyIGFBP) gene from the aquaculture bivalve species, Yesso scallop (Patinopecten yessoensis, Jay, 1857). Its full-length cDNA sequence was 1,445 bp, with an open reading frame of 378 bp, encoding 125 amino acids, and its genomic sequence was 10,193 bp, consisting of three exons and two introns. The amino acid sequence exhibited the characteristics of IGFBPs, including multiple cysteine residues and relatively conserved motifs in the N-terminal and C-terminal domains. Expression analysis indicated that PyIGFBP was expressed in all the tissues and developmental stages examined, with a significantly higher level in the mantle than in other tissues and a significantly higher level in gastrulae and trochophore larvae than in other stages. Furthermore, three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified in this gene. SNP c.1054A>G was significantly associated with both shell and soft body traits in two populations, with the highest trait values in GG type scallops and lowest in AG type ones.<br><br>CONCLUSION: We cloned and characterized an IGFBP gene in a bivalve, and this report also represents the first characterizing an IGF system gene in scallops. A SNP associated with scallop growth for both the shell and soft body was identified in this gene. In addition to providing a candidate marker for scallop breeding, our results also suggest the role of PyIGFBP in scallop growth.}, }
@article {pmid24575858, year = {2014}, author = {Cavallini, M and Cirillo, P and Fundarò, SP and Quartucci, S and Sciuto, C and Sito, G and Tonini, D and Trocchi, G and Signorini, M}, title = {Safety of botulinum toxin A in aesthetic treatments: a systematic review of clinical studies.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {40}, number = {5}, pages = {525-536}, doi = {10.1111/dsu.12463}, pmid = {24575858}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Blepharoptosis/chemically induced ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Cosmetic Techniques/*adverse effects ; Face ; Facial Asymmetry/chemically induced ; Humans ; Neuromuscular Agents/*adverse effects/therapeutic use ; *Skin Aging ; Vision Disorders/chemically induced ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The use of botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) for aesthetic treatments is growing steadily, and new safety data have been reported in recently published studies.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To investigate the safety data on the use of the three BoNT-A formulations approved for facial aesthetics from recent studies and to confirm their safety profiles.<br><br>METHODS: The literature search was conducted using three online databases restricted to the timeframe from January 2000 to June 2012. Only clinical trials, randomized or open label, with safety as the primary or secondary endpoint, were included.<br><br>RESULTS: Thirty-five papers were selected, with a total of subjects 8,787 studied. OnabotulinumtoxinA was used in 60.0% of the studies, abobotulinumtoxinA in 37.1%, and incobotulinumtoxinA in 2.8%. The glabella was the most investigated area (51.4%), followed by the upper face (25.7%), crow's feet (11.4%), and lower face (11.4%). Treatment-related adverse events were blepharoptosis (2.5%), brow ptosis (3.1%), and eye sensory disorders (3%) in the upper face and lip asymmetries and imbalances in the lower face (6.9%). All of these events resolved spontaneously.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The short-term safety profile of BoNT-A in cosmetic nonsurgical procedures was confirmed for all the three commercial formulations.}, }
@article {pmid24575742, year = {2014}, author = {Eiden, M and Ziegler, U and Keller, M and Müller, K and Granzow, H and Jöst, H and Schmidt-Chanasit, J and Groschup, MH}, title = {Isolation of sindbis virus from a hooded crow in Germany.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {220-222}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2013.1354}, pmid = {24575742}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Alphavirus Infections/epidemiology/transmission/*veterinary/virology ; Animals ; Base Sequence ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/transmission/*virology ; Crows/*virology ; Culicidae/*virology ; Disease Reservoirs ; Genotype ; Germany/epidemiology ; Humans ; Microscopy, Electron ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Sindbis Virus/classification/*isolation &amp; purification/ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {Sindbis virus (SINV) is an arbovirus that causes clinical symptoms, including arthritis, rash, and fever during acute human infections. In Europe, SINV outbreaks are largely restricted to northern Europe. Intrigued by the isolation of SINV from mosquitoes in southwestern Germany in 2009, we initiated a passive arbovirus-monitoring program in birds and analyzed a total of 685 samples. By this approach, we were able to detect a SINV in a Hooded Crow in Germany for the first time. It was possible to isolate SINV virus in cell cultures and even to visualize virus particles by electron microscopy. After the determination of the complete SINV genome sequence, the phylogenetic analysis revealed its close relationship to SINV genotype I sequences previously obtained from mosquitoes in Germany and Scandinavia. This first report on the isolation of viable SINV indicates the potential involvement of crows in an enzootic circulation of SINV in Germany and Central Europe.}, }
@article {pmid24562258, year = {2014}, author = {Kalantarov, D and Search, CP}, title = {Effect of resonator losses on the sensitivity of coupled resonator optical waveguide gyroscopes.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {39}, number = {4}, pages = {985-988}, doi = {10.1364/OL.39.000985}, pmid = {24562258}, issn = {1539-4794}, abstract = {Recently there has been a growing interest in microphotonic integrated optical gyroscopes. Here, we analyze the effect of resonator losses on the rotational sensitivity of a coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW) gyroscope in comparison to a single passive resonator gyroscope of the same size. We show that the CROW gyro offers a superior sensitivity only for very low propagation losses. Moreover, the single ring resonator gyro is found to have a sensitivity that is stable over wide range of resonator losses as well as boasting greater sensitivities than the CROW gyro for propagation losses in the resonators exceeding 10[-1] dB/cm.}, }
@article {pmid24561945, year = {2014}, author = {Correia, C and Jackson, K and Véran, JP and Andersen, D and Lardière, O and Bradley, C}, title = {Static and predictive tomographic reconstruction for wide-field multi-object adaptive optics systems.}, journal = {Journal of the Optical Society of America. A, Optics, image science, and vision}, volume = {31}, number = {1}, pages = {101-113}, doi = {10.1364/JOSAA.31.000101}, pmid = {24561945}, issn = {1520-8532}, abstract = {Multi-object adaptive optics (MOAO) systems are still in their infancy: their complex optical designs for tomographic, wide-field wavefront sensing, coupled with open-loop (OL) correction, make their calibration a challenge. The correction of a discrete number of specific directions in the field allows for streamlined application of a general class of spatio-angular algorithms, initially proposed in Whiteley et al. [J. Opt. Soc. Am. A15, 2097 (1998)], which is compatible with partial on-line calibration. The recent Learn &amp; Apply algorithm from Vidal et al. [J. Opt. Soc. Am. A27, A253 (2010)] can then be reinterpreted in a broader framework of tomographic algorithms and is shown to be a special case that exploits the particulars of OL and aperture-plane phase conjugation. An extension to embed a temporal prediction step to tackle sky-coverage limitations is discussed. The trade-off between lengthening the camera integration period, therefore increasing system lag error, and the resulting improvement in SNR can be shifted to higher guide-star magnitudes by introducing temporal prediction. The derivation of the optimal predictor and a comparison to suboptimal autoregressive models is provided using temporal structure functions. It is shown using end-to-end simulations of Raven, the MOAO science, and technology demonstrator for the 8 m Subaru telescope that prediction allows by itself the use of 1-magnitude-fainter guide stars.}, }
@article {pmid24560277, year = {2014}, author = {Jahidin, AH and Megat Ali, MS and Taib, MN and Tahir, NM and Yassin, IM and Lias, S}, title = {Classification of intelligence quotient via brainwave sub-band power ratio features and artificial neural network.}, journal = {Computer methods and programs in biomedicine}, volume = {114}, number = {1}, pages = {50-59}, doi = {10.1016/j.cmpb.2014.01.016}, pmid = {24560277}, issn = {1872-7565}, mesh = {Brain/*physiology ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Neural Networks, Computer ; Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted ; }, abstract = {This paper elaborates on the novel intelligence assessment method using the brainwave sub-band power ratio features. The study focuses only on the left hemisphere brainwave in its relaxed state. Distinct intelligence quotient groups have been established earlier from the score of the Raven Progressive Matrices. Sub-band power ratios are calculated from energy spectral density of theta, alpha and beta frequency bands. Synthetic data have been generated to increase dataset from 50 to 120. The features are used as input to the artificial neural network. Subsequently, the brain behaviour model has been developed using an artificial neural network that is trained with optimized learning rate, momentum constant and hidden nodes. Findings indicate that the distinct intelligence quotient groups can be classified from the brainwave sub-band power ratios with 100% training and 88.89% testing accuracies.}, }
@article {pmid24556949, year = {2014}, author = {Soler, JJ and Avilés, JM and Martín-Gálvez, D and de Neve, L and Soler, M}, title = {Eavesdropping cuckoos: further insights on great spotted cuckoo preference by magpie nests and egg colour.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {175}, number = {1}, pages = {105-115}, pmid = {24556949}, issn = {1432-1939}, mesh = {Animals ; *Choice Behavior ; *Color ; Female ; Linear Models ; *Nesting Behavior ; Ovum/*physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Phenotype ; Reproduction ; }, abstract = {Reproductive success of brood parasites largely depends on appropriate host selection and, although the use of inadvertent social information emitted by hosts may be of selective advantage for cuckoos, this possibility has rarely been experimentally tested. Here, we manipulated nest size and clutch colouration of magpies (Pica pica), the main host of great spotted cuckoos (Clamator glandarius). These phenotypic traits may potentially reveal information about magpie territory and/or parental quality and could hence influence the cuckoo's choice of host nests. Experimentally reduced magpie nests suffered higher predation rate, and prevalence of cuckoo parasitism was higher in magpie nests with the densest roofs, which suggests a direct advantage for great spotted cuckoos choosing this type of magpie nest. Colouration of magpie clutches was manipulated by adding one artificial egg (blue or cream colouration) at the beginning of the egg-laying period. We found that host nests holding an experimental cream egg experienced a higher prevalence of cuckoo parasitism than those holding a blue-coloured egg. Results from these two experiments suggest that great spotted cuckoos cue on magpie nest characteristics and the appearance of eggs to decide parasitism, and confirm, for the first time, the ability of cuckoos to distinguish between eggs of different colours within the nest of their hosts. Several hypothetical scenarios explaining these results are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid24556796, year = {2014}, author = {Huhta, E and Sulkava, P}, title = {The impact of nature-based tourism on bird communities: a case study in Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park.}, journal = {Environmental management}, volume = {53}, number = {5}, pages = {1005-1014}, pmid = {24556796}, issn = {1432-1009}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biodiversity ; Birds/*physiology ; Conservation of Natural Resources/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Ecosystem ; Finland ; Humans ; Linear Models ; Population Dynamics ; Recreation ; Species Specificity ; Travel/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Trees ; Urbanization ; }, abstract = {Nature-based tourism and recreation within and close to protected areas may have negative environmental impacts on biodiversity due to urban development, landscape fragmentation, and increased disturbance. We conducted a 3-year study of disturbances of birds induced by nature-based tourism over a recreational gradient in the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park and its surroundings in northern Finland. Bird assemblages were studied in highly disturbed areas close to the park (a ski resort, villages, and accommodation areas) and in campfire sites, along hiking routes (recreational areas) and in a forest (control area) within the park. Compared with the forest, the disturbed urbanized areas had higher abundances of human-associated species, corvid species, cavity and building nesters, and edge species. The abundances of managed forest species were higher in campfire sites than in the forest. Hiking trails and campfire sites did not have a negative impact on open-nesting bird species. The most likely reason for this outcome is that most campfire sites were situated at forest edges; this species group prefers managed forests and forest edge as a breeding habitat. The abundances of virgin forest species did not differ among the areas studied. The results of the study suggest that the current recreation pressure has not caused substantial changes in the forest bird communities within the National Park. We suggest that the abundances of urban exploiter species could be used as indicators to monitor the level and changes of urbanization and recreational pressure at tourist destinations.}, }
@article {pmid24551072, year = {2014}, author = {Mirza, ZA and Sanap, RV and Bhosale, H}, title = {Preliminary review of Indian Eumenophorinae (Araneae: Theraphosidae) with description of a new genus and five new species from the Western Ghats.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {2}, pages = {e87928}, pmid = {24551072}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Ecosystem ; Female ; Geography ; India ; Male ; Species Specificity ; Spiders/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification/ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {The theraphosid spider genera Heterophrictus Pocock, 1900 and Neoheterophrictus Siliwal &amp; Raven, 2012 are rediagnosed in this paper and a new genus, Sahydroaraneus gen. nov. is described from Southern Western Ghats. Four new species (two each of Heterophrictus and Neoheterophrictus) and one of Sahydroaraneus gen. nov. are described from the Western Ghats. Plesiophrictus mahabaleshwari Tikader, 1977 is removed from the synonymy of Heterophrictus milleti Pocock, 1900 and is treated as a junior synonym of Heterophrictus blatteri (Gravely, 1935). Plesiophrictus bhori Gravely, 1915 is transferred to the genus Neoheterophrictus, Neoheterophrictus bhori (Gravely, 1915) new combination. The genus, Sahydroaraneus gen. nov., resembles tarantula belonging to the genus, Neoheterophrictus but differs with respect to structure of tibial apophysis and spermathecae. Detailed ultra-structure of setae type of the Indian Eumenophorinae is presented for the first time along with notes on their biogeography. Common elements among Africa, Madagascar and India like the Eumenophorinae and several other mygalomorph spiders advocate mygalomorphae as an important group for evolutionary investigation due to their inability for long distance dispersal rendering the members restrictive in distribution.}, }
@article {pmid24535735, year = {2014}, author = {Gjerde, B}, title = {Morphological and molecular characteristics of four Sarcocystis spp. in Canadian moose (Alces alces), including Sarcocystis taeniata n. sp.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {113}, number = {4}, pages = {1591-1604}, pmid = {24535735}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Animals ; Canada ; DNA, Protozoan/genetics ; Deer/*parasitology ; Genetic Variation ; Male ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Muscles/parasitology ; Phylogeny ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; Sarcocystis/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/*ultrastructure ; Sarcocystosis/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {Individual sarcocysts were isolated from fresh or alcohol-fixed muscle samples of two moose from Alberta, Canada, and examined by light (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and molecular methods, comprising polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and sequencing of the complete18S rRNA gene and the partial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene (cox1). By LM, four sarcocyst types were recognized, and the sequencing results showed that each type represented a distinct species, i.e. Sarcocystis alces, Sarcocystis alceslatrans, Sarcocystis ovalis and Sarcocystis taeniata n. sp. The finding of S. alceslatrans and S. ovalis has been reported briefly previously, but further details are provided here, including the ultrastructure of sarcoysts of S. alceslatrans as seen by SEM. The species S. alces was found for the first time in Canadian moose, whereas the finding of S. taeniata is the first record of this species in any host. The sarcocysts of S. taeniata were sac-like and about 1,000-1,100 × 60-80 μm in size. By LM, the cysts had a thin and smooth wall with no visible protrusions, whereas SEM revealed that the cyst surface had sparsely but regularly distributed, thin ribbon-like protrusions, about 2 μm long and 0.2 μm wide, lying flat against the surface and leaving most of the cyst surface naked. Similar protrusions have previously been reported from Sarcocystis grueneri in reindeer, which was found by sequence comparisons and phylogenetic analyses to be the species most closely related to S. taeniata. The phylogenetic analyses further suggested that S. taeniata, like S. alces and S. alceslatrans, use canids as definitive hosts, whereas corvid birds are known definitive hosts for S. ovalis. In contrast to the three other species found, S. taeniata displayed considerable intra-specific and intra-isolate sequence variation (substitutions, insertions/deletions) in certain regions of the 18S rRNA gene.}, }
@article {pmid24528115, year = {2015}, author = {Nam, GW and Baek, JH and Koh, JS and Hwang, JK}, title = {The seasonal variation in skin hydration, sebum, scaliness, brightness and elasticity in Korean females.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {21}, number = {1}, pages = {1-8}, doi = {10.1111/srt.12145}, pmid = {24528115}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Acclimatization/*physiology ; Adult ; Elastic Modulus/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Humidity ; Korea ; Pressure ; Rain ; *Seasons ; Sebum/*metabolism ; Skin Absorption/*physiology ; Skin Pigmentation/*physiology ; Temperature ; Water Loss, Insensible/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Age, gender, regional, and ethnic differences influence skin conditions. The purpose of this study was to observe the effects of environments, especially the air temperature, relative humidity, air pressure, duration of sunshine, and precipitation on skin, and the seasonal variation in skin hydration, sebum, scales, brightness, and elasticity in Korean females.<br><br>METHODS: The study included 89 Korean subjects, aged 29.7 &#xb1; 6.2 years. The five skin biophysical parameters (skin hydration, sebum, scales, brightness, and elasticity) were measured at six sites: forehead, under the eye, frontal cheek, crow's foot, lateral cheek, and inner forearm. Skin hydration was measured using the Corneometer&#xae; CM 825. Skin sebum was measured with Sebumeter&#xae; SM 815. Skin scaliness was measured with Visioscan&#xae; VC 98. Skin brightness (L* value) was measured by using Spectrophotometer. A suction chamber device, Cutometer&#xae; MPA 580, was used to measure the skin elasticity. The measurements were performed every month for 13 months, from April 2007 to April 2008.<br><br>RESULTS: There were significantly seasonal variations in environmental factors. The air temperature was the lowest in January (-1.7&#xb0;C), and the highest in August (26.5&#xb0;C). The relative humidity was the lowest in February (46%), and the highest in July and August (75%). There was a negative correlation between skin scaliness and three environmental factors such as air temperature, relative humidity, and highest precipitation. There was a positive correlation between skin scaliness and two environmental factors such as air pressure and duration of sunshine. Elasticity was correlated with air temperature positively and with air pressure negatively.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The correlations shown between the skin biophysical parameters and environmental factors demonstrate that the skin biophysical parameters are affected by environmental factors.}, }
@article {pmid24525660, year = {2014}, author = {Jeon, HJ and Woo, JM and Lee, SH and Kim, EJ and Chung, S and Ha, JH and Fava, M and Mischoulon, D and Kim, JH and Heo, JY and Yu, BH}, title = {Improvement in subjective and objective neurocognitive functions in patients with major depressive disorder: a 12-week, multicenter, randomized trial of tianeptine versus escitalopram, the CAMPION study.}, journal = {Journal of clinical psychopharmacology}, volume = {34}, number = {2}, pages = {218-225}, doi = {10.1097/JCP.0000000000000072}, pmid = {24525660}, issn = {1533-712X}, mesh = {Antidepressive Agents, Tricyclic/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Citalopram/pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Cognition/drug effects ; Depressive Disorder, Major/*drug therapy/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors/pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Thiazepines/pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {Although many patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) complain of neurocognitive impairment, the effects of antidepressant medications on neurocognitive functions remain unclear. This study compares neurocognitive effects of tianeptine and escitalopram in MDD. Patients with MDD (N = 164) were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either tianeptine (37.5 mg/d) or escitalopram (10 mg/d) for 12 weeks. Outcome measures included clinical improvement, subjective cognitive impairment on memory and concentration, the Mini-Mental State Examination, the Continuous Performance Test, the Verbal Learning Test, and the Raven Progressive Matrices, assessed every 4 weeks. After 12 weeks, the tianeptine group showed significant improvement in commission errors (P = 0.002), verbal immediate memory (P < 0.0001), Mini-Mental State Examination (P < 0.0001), delayed memory (P < 0.0001), and reasoning ability (P = 0.0010), whereas the escitalopram group improved in delayed memory and reasoning ability but not in the other measures. Both groups significantly improved in subjective cognitive impairment in memory (P < 0.0001) and concentration (P < 0.0001). Mixed effects model repeated measures analyses revealed that the tianeptine group had a significant improvement in scores of commission errors (F = 6.64, P = 0.011) and verbal immediate memory (F = 4.39, P = 0.038) from baseline to 12 weeks, compared with the escitalopram group, after controlling for age, sex, education years, baseline scores, and changes of depression severity. The treatment of MDD with tianeptine led to more improvements in neurocognitive functions, especially in commission errors and verbal immediate memory, compared with escitalopram, after controlling for changes in depression severity. Both drugs improved subjective cognitive impairment of memory and concentration.}, }
@article {pmid24514595, year = {2013}, author = {Jeong, SH and Shimura, D and Simoyama, T and Seki, M and Yokoyama, N and Ohtsuka, M and Koshino, K and Horikawa, T and Tanaka, Y and Morito, K}, title = {Low-loss, flat-topped and spectrally uniform silicon-nanowire-based 5th-order CROW fabricated by ArF-immersion lithography process on a 300-mm SOI wafer.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {21}, number = {25}, pages = {30163-30174}, doi = {10.1364/OE.21.030163}, pmid = {24514595}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {We report superior spectral characteristics of silicon-nanowire-based 5th-order coupled resonator optical waveguides (CROW) fabricated by 193-nm ArF-immersion lithography process on a 300-mm silicon-on-insulator wafer. We theoretically analyze spectral characteristics, considering random phase errors caused by micro fabrication process. It will be experimentally demonstrated that the fabricated devices exhibit a low excess loss of 0.4 ± 0.2 dB, a high out-of-band rejection ratio of >40dB, and a wide flatband width of ~2 nm. Furthermore, we evaluate manufacturing tolerances for intra-dies and inter-dies, comparing with the cases for 248-nm KrF-dry lithography process. It will be shown that the 193-nm ArF-immersion lithography process can provide much less excess phase errors of Si-nanowire waveguides, thus enabling to give better filter spectral characteristics. Finally, spectral superiorities will be reconfirmed by measuring 25 Gbps modulated signals launched into the fabricated device. Clear eye diagrams are observed when the wavelengths of modulated signals are stayed within almost passband of the 5th-order CROW.}, }
@article {pmid24502738, year = {2013}, author = {Defilippo, F and Luppi, A and Maioli, G and Marzi, D and Fontana, MC and Paoli, F and Bonilauri, P and Dottori, M and Merialdi, G}, title = {Outbreak of type C botulism in birds and mammals in the Emilia Romagna region, northern Italy.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {49}, number = {4}, pages = {1042-1046}, doi = {10.7589/2013-03-072}, pmid = {24502738}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Botulinum Toxins/*toxicity ; Botulism/epidemiology/*veterinary ; Disease Outbreaks/*veterinary ; Italy/epidemiology ; *Mammals ; }, abstract = {Over a 7-day period beginning 8 August 2011, a large number of wild birds of several species were found dead or with neurologic clinical signs along the shore of Crostolo stream, in the Emilia Romagna region, Italy. Twenty-eight Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos), two Hooded Crows (Corvus corone cornix), and three coypus (Myocastor coypus) were found moribund on the Crostolo stream bank, collected, and sent to Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia Romagna, Reggio Emilia Section. The cause of mortality was determined to be Clostridium botulinum type C toxin. The toxin was identified by a mouse bioassay for botulinum toxins and confirmed in bird sera and blowfly larvae (Lucilia caesar) collected from the stomachs of birds.}, }
@article {pmid24502678, year = {2014}, author = {Mandarelli, G and Tarsitani, L and Parmigiani, G and Polselli, GM and Frati, P and Biondi, M and Ferracuti, S}, title = {Mental capacity in patients involuntarily or voluntarily receiving psychiatric treatment for an acute mental disorder.}, journal = {Journal of forensic sciences}, volume = {59}, number = {4}, pages = {1002-1007}, doi = {10.1111/1556-4029.12420}, pmid = {24502678}, issn = {1556-4029}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; *Commitment of Persons with Psychiatric Disorders ; Female ; Hospitals, University ; Humans ; *Informed Consent ; Interview, Psychological ; Italy/epidemiology ; Male ; *Mental Competency ; Mental Disorders/*epidemiology ; *Mental Health Services ; Middle Aged ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Psychological Tests ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Despite the growing amount of data, much information is needed on patients' mental capacity to consent to psychiatric treatment for acute mental disorders. The present study was undertaken to compare differences in capacity to consent to psychiatric treatment in patients treated voluntarily and involuntarily and to investigate the role of psychiatric symptoms, competency, and cognitive functioning in determining voluntariness of hospital admission. Involuntary patients were interviewed with the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Treatment (MacCAT-T), the 24-item Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, and their data were compared with those for age- and sex-matched voluntary patients. Involuntary patients performed worse in all MacCAT-T subscales. Capacity to consent to treatment varied widely within each group. Overall, involuntary patients have worse consent-related mental capacity than those treated voluntarily, despite capacity to consent to treatment showing a significant variability in both groups.}, }
@article {pmid24501271, year = {2014}, author = {Davidson, GL and Clayton, NS and Thornton, A}, title = {Salient eyes deter conspecific nest intruders in wild jackdaws (Corvus monedula).}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {20131077}, pmid = {24501271}, issn = {1744-957X}, support = {BB/H021817/1//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; England ; *Nesting Behavior ; Videotape Recording ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Animals often respond fearfully when encountering eyes or eye-like shapes. Although gaze aversion has been documented in mammals when avoiding group-member conflict, the importance of eye coloration during interactions between conspecifics has yet to be examined in non-primate species. Jackdaws (Corvus monedula) have near-white irides, which are conspicuous against their dark feathers and visible when seen from outside the cavities where they nest. Because jackdaws compete for nest sites, their conspicuous eyes may act as a warning signal to indicate that a nest is occupied and deter intrusions by conspecifics. We tested whether jackdaws' pale irides serve as a deterrent to prospecting conspecifics by comparing prospectors' behaviour towards nest-boxes displaying images with bright eyes (BEs) only, a jackdaw face with natural BEs, or a jackdaw face with dark eyes. The jackdaw face with BEs was most effective in deterring birds from making contact with nest-boxes, whereas both BE conditions reduced the amount of time jackdaws spent in proximity to the image. We suggest BEs in jackdaws may function to prevent conspecific competitors from approaching occupied nest sites.}, }
@article {pmid24501183, year = {2014}, author = {Neki, H and Yamane, F and Osawa, A and Maeshima, S and Ishihara, S}, title = {[Cognitive dysfunction in patients with pontine hemorrhage].}, journal = {No shinkei geka. Neurological surgery}, volume = {42}, number = {2}, pages = {109-113}, pmid = {24501183}, issn = {0301-2603}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/etiology/*physiopathology/rehabilitation ; Female ; Hematoma/complications/diagnosis/pathology/*physiopathology ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Stroke/complications/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: Cognitive dysfunctions with stroke of the brain stem are rare. We focused on and examined cognitive dysfunction after pontine hemorrhages.<br><br>OBJECT AND METHOD: After July 2008, we treated 23 patients with pontine hemorrhages. Only 10 patients were included, all other patients had old hemorrhages, venous anomalies, and disturbances of consciousness. The patients included six men and four women, aged 51 years to 86 years old. The volume of hematoma was 0.11-5.20mL(average:1.74mL);there were six right side, two left side, two bilateral, three ventral, and seven dorsal hematomas. We performed neuropsychological tests such as mini-mental state examination(MMSE), Raven's coloured progressive matrices(RCPM), and frontal assessment battery(FAB).<br><br>RESULT: Eight cases had an abnormal score on the tests. The volume of hematoma showed a high negative correlation with MMSE scores(p=0.0194)and RCPM(p=0.0338). On the other hand, the volume of hematoma and FAB scores(p=0.0832)were uncorrelated, and the localization of the hematoma did not correlate with tests of cognitive function.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Cognitive dysfunction is not rare after pontine hemorrhage. Therefore, for patients with infratentorial lesions, it is necessary to perform detailed cognitive functional tests.}, }
@article {pmid24498311, year = {2014}, author = {Huang, ZP and Qi, XG and Garber, PA and Jin, T and Guo, ST and Li, S and Li, BG}, title = {The use of camera traps to identify the set of scavengers preying on the carcass of a golden snub-nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus roxellana).}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {2}, pages = {e87318}, pmid = {24498311}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Carnivora/classification/*physiology ; Carnivory/*physiology ; Colobinae/*physiology ; Ecosystem ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Murinae/physiology ; Photography/instrumentation/methods ; Reproducibility of Results ; Species Specificity ; Time Factors ; Ursidae/physiology ; Video Recording/instrumentation/*methods ; }, abstract = {There exists very limited information on the set of scavengers that feed on the carcasses of wild primates. Here, we describe, based on information collected using a remote camera trap, carnivores consuming/scavenging the carcass of a wild golden snub-nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus roxellana) in the Laohegou Nature Reserve, Sichuan, China. During a 3 month behavioral and ecology study of a band of golden snub-nosed monkeys (March through May 2013), we encountered the carcass of an adult male (male golden snub-nosed monkeys weigh approximately 12-16 kg). After examining the dead monkey, we returned it to the death site and set out a camera trap to record the behavior and identity of scavengers. Over the course of 25 days, we collected 4145 photographs taken by the camera trap. Scavengers identified from these photographs include a masked civet (Paguma larvata), Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus), large-billed crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) and the chestnut rat (Rattus fulvescens). No member of the golden snub-nosed monkey's social group, which was composed of approximately 120 individuals, was found to return to the general area of the death site. The masked civet fed principally on the face and intestines of the corpse at night, while the black bear consumed most of the body of the dead monkey during both the daytime and nighttime. These two taxa consumed virtually the entire carcass in one week. We suggest that the use of camera traps offers a powerful research tool to identify the scavenger community of a given ecosystem.}, }
@article {pmid24498238, year = {2014}, author = {Townsend, AK and Barker, CM}, title = {Plastic and the nest entanglement of urban and agricultural crows.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {e88006}, pmid = {24498238}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; California ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; *Crows ; Humans ; Male ; *Nesting Behavior ; Social Planning ; *Urban Renewal ; }, abstract = {Much attention has been paid to the impacts of plastics and other debris on marine organisms, but the effects of plastic on terrestrial organisms have been largely ignored. Detrimental effects of terrestrial plastic could be most pronounced in intensively human-modified landscapes (e.g., urban and agricultural areas), which are a source of much anthropogenic debris. Here, we examine the occurrence, types, landscape associations, and consequences of anthropogenic nest material in the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), a North American species that breeds in both urban and agricultural landscapes. We monitored 195 nestlings in 106 nests across an urban and agricultural gradient in the Sacramento Valley, California, USA. We found that 85.2% of crow nests contained anthropogenic material, and 11 of 195 nestlings (5.6%) were entangled in their nests. The length of the material was greater in nests in agricultural territories than in urban territories, and the odds of entanglement increased 7.55 times for each meter of anthropogenic material in the nest. Fledging success was significantly lower for entangled than for unentangled nestlings. In all environments, particularly urban, agricultural, and marine, careful disposal of potential hazards (string, packing and hay bale twine, balloon ribbon, wire, fishing line) could reduce the occurrence of entanglement of nestling birds.}, }
@article {pmid24490852, year = {2014}, author = {Chiplonkar, SA and Kawade, R}, title = {Linkages of biomarkers of zinc with cognitive performance and taste acuity in adolescent girls.}, journal = {International journal of food sciences and nutrition}, volume = {65}, number = {4}, pages = {399-403}, doi = {10.3109/09637486.2014.880667}, pmid = {24490852}, issn = {1465-3478}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adolescent Behavior ; Biomarkers/blood ; *Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/*blood/etiology/physiopathology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Deficiency Diseases/physiopathology ; Erythrocytes/chemistry ; Female ; Humans ; India ; Memory, Short-Term ; Nutritional Status ; Severity of Illness Index ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Taste Disorders/*blood/etiology/physiopathology ; *Taste Perception ; Zinc/*blood/deficiency ; }, abstract = {A cross-sectional study (n = 403) was conducted to examine the relationship of plasma zinc (PZ) and erythrocyte zinc (EZ) levels with cognitive performance and taste acuity for salt in Indian adolescent girls. PZ, EZ and hemoglobin were estimated in schoolgirls (10-16 years). Cognitive performance was assessed by simple-reaction-time (SRT), recognition-reaction-time (RRT), visual-memory, Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM) test. Taste acuity was determined by recognition-thresholds-for-salt (RTS) using 10 different salt concentrations. Low PZ (<0.7 mg/l) and EZ (<8 µg/g of packed cells) were observed in 72% and 23.6% of girls, respectively. PZ and EZ were negatively associated with SRT (r = -0.41, -0.34), RRT (r = -0.49, -0.4), and positively with Memory (r = 0.43, 0.34) and RPM (r = 0.39, 0.31; p < 0.05) and remained significant after adjusting for socio-demographic factors and hemoglobin. RTS was impaired in 18.3% girls and significantly correlated with EZ (r = -0.31, p < 0.05). Zinc deficiency in adolescent girls was associated with poor cognition and taste function implying need for improving their dietary zinc intakes.}, }
@article {pmid24490316, year = {2013}, author = {Meng, H and Wang, D and Ren, XJ and Liang, RY and Wu, WH}, title = {[Application of custom casting separate post-and-core crown restorations of titanium in molar defects with low occlusogingival distance].}, journal = {Shanghai kou qiang yi xue = Shanghai journal of stomatology}, volume = {22}, number = {5}, pages = {595-597}, pmid = {24490316}, issn = {1006-7248}, mesh = {*Crowns ; Humans ; Molar ; *Post and Core Technique ; Resin Cements ; *Titanium ; Tooth Crown ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical effect of custom casting separate post-and-core crown restorations of titanium in residual molar roots and crows with low occlusogingival distance.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty-two residual roots and crowns with low occlusogingival distance were involved in the study. The root canals were prepared according to their natural directions without concerning about the common path of insertion and then the preparation of abutment teeth were made following the routine clinical procedure. Accurate impression was taken with silicone to fabricate the custom casting separate post-and-core crown restorations of Ti. The two parts were cemented together with resin cement.<br><br>RESULTS: All the 22 fixed restorations were found to be with good retention and without looseness, falling off or breaking off of the roots.They all used normally for 6-30 months.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Custom casting separate post-and-core crown of Ti is a better prosthetic restoration for molar residual root and crown with low occlusogingival distance.}, }
@article {pmid24486253, year = {2014}, author = {Yokoyama, R and Nozawa, T and Takeuchi, H and Taki, Y and Sekiguchi, A and Nouchi, R and Kotozaki, Y and Nakagawa, S and Miyauchi, CM and Iizuka, K and Shinada, T and Yamamoto, Y and Hanawa, S and Araki, T and Hashizume, H and Kunitoki, K and Hanihara, M and Sassa, Y and Kawashima, R}, title = {Association between gray matter volume in the caudate nucleus and financial extravagance: findings from voxel-based morphometry.}, journal = {Neuroscience letters}, volume = {563}, number = {}, pages = {28-32}, doi = {10.1016/j.neulet.2014.01.026}, pmid = {24486253}, issn = {1872-7972}, mesh = {Adult ; Caudate Nucleus/*anatomy &amp; histology ; *Choice Behavior ; Exploratory Behavior ; Female ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Personality Inventory ; Psychometrics ; *Risk-Taking ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Temperament ; }, abstract = {Consumer behavior differs among individuals; one such common individual difference is financial extravagance. Recent research suggests that the activation of the caudate nucleus plays an important role in consumer behavior. However, to the best of our knowledge, no study has investigated the specific relationship between the caudate nucleus and consumer financial extravagance. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the association between individual differences in financial extravagance and regional gray matter volume in the caudate nucleus by using voxel-based morphometry (VBM). We recruited 776 healthy, right-handed individuals (432 men and 344 women; mean age=20.7 ± 1.8) and used voxel-based morphometry and a financial extravagance questionnaire to determine the association between financial extravagance and gray matter structure in the caudate nucleus. Our measure of financial extravagance was based on the novelty seeking subscales of the Japanese version of the Temperament and Character Inventory. A multiple regression analysis including financial extravagance, age, sex, Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrix score, total intracranial volume, and novelty seeking subscales was conducted to examine what variables were related to regional gray matter volume in the region of interest within the caudate nucleus. A significant positive correlation was found between the obtained financial extravagance score and regional gray matter volume in the caudate nucleus. We found that structural variations in the caudate nucleus contributed to individual differences in financial extravagance. This finding may provide a new neuroscientific approach to understanding individual characteristics of consumers.}, }
@article {pmid24484482, year = {2014}, author = {Yoshimura, A and Koketsu, M and Bando, H and Saiki, E and Suzuki, M and Watanabe, Y and Kanuka, H and Fukumoto, S}, title = {Phylogenetic comparison of avian haemosporidian parasites from resident and migratory birds in northern Japan.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {50}, number = {2}, pages = {235-242}, doi = {10.7589/2013-03-071}, pmid = {24484482}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {*Animal Migration ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology ; Birds ; Haemosporida/*isolation &amp; purification ; Japan/epidemiology ; Protozoan Infections, Animal/epidemiology/*parasitology ; }, abstract = {We analyzed blood samples of resident and migratory Japanese birds to evaluate the prevalence and genetic background of avian blood parasites in northern Japan. We used PCR targeting the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene to examine infections of Leucocytozoon, Haemoproteus, and Plasmodium parasites in blood samples from 243 birds of 14 species in three orders (Passeriformes, Columbiformes, and Anseriformes). Sequences were subjected to phylogenetic analysis. The infection rate was 21% in pigeons (Columbiformes) and 17% in Anseriformes. A high infection rate of 93.8% was found in crow species (Passeriformes). Haemoproteus and Plasmodium parasites were detected in only two species. Infected blood samples obtained from seven bird species involved two major clades of Leucocytozoon, which were divided between resident and migratory birds. The parasites, which are genetically distinct from parasites in Japanese resident birds, may have been introduced to Japan by migratory bird species.}, }
@article {pmid24481513, year = {2014}, author = {Kashkouli, MB and Amani, A and Jamshidian-Tehrani, M and Yousefi, S and Jazayeri, AA}, title = {Eighteen-point abobotulinum toxin a upper face rejuvenation: an eye plastic perspective on 845 subjects.}, journal = {Ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {219-224}, doi = {10.1097/IOP.0000000000000053}, pmid = {24481513}, issn = {1537-2677}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Eyebrows/drug effects ; Eyelids/drug effects ; Facial Muscles/*drug effects ; Female ; Forehead ; Humans ; Injections, Intradermal ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*therapeutic use ; Orbit/drug effects ; *Rejuvenation ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; Skin/*drug effects ; *Skin Aging ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To report the method and results of 18-point Abobotulinum toxin A (ABO-BTA, Dysport) upper face rejuvenation on 845 subjects.<br><br>METHODS: In a retrospective chart review, all subjects (the first cycle of injection) with ABO-BTA upper face rejuvenation from 2003 to 2009 were included. Excluded were subjects with facial spastic disorders, injection after upper face lifting, and aberrant regeneration of facial nerves. Upper face rejuvenation included 18 points of injection at forehead creases (4), frown lines (5), bunny line (1), crow's feet (4 on both sides), and lower eyelid crease (4 on both sides). They were revisited in 10 to 14 days for assessment of the effects and possible touch-up injection. Demographics, year of injection, topical anesthetic usage, touch-up injection, and adverse effects (AE) were recorded.<br><br>RESULTS: There were 845 subjects (85.8% women) whose age was below 40 in 49.3%. All but 68 (8%) were happy with the touch-up visit, 10 to 14 days after injection. Touch-up injection was performed in 8% of subjects mainly for the eyebrow asymmetry. AE (22/845, 2.6%) were bruise (15/845, 1.8%), blepharoptosis (3/845, 0.3%), remained eyebrow asymmetry after touch-up injection (2/845, 0.2%), and headache (2/845, 0.2%). They were significantly more in subjects with touch-up injection, younger than 40 years, and in the first and second year of experience (especially for the bruise).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Eighteen-point ABO-BTA upper face rejuvenation had a low rate of AE in this series in which majority was bruise at the lateral canthal area. They were significantly more in the first years of experience, subjects younger than 40, and who had touch-up injections.}, }
@article {pmid24475085, year = {2014}, author = {Soler, M and Pérez-Contreras, T and Peralta-Sánchez, JM}, title = {Mirror-mark tests performed on jackdaws reveal potential methodological problems in the use of stickers in avian mark-test studies.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {e86193}, pmid = {24475085}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Concept Formation ; Crows/*physiology ; Recognition, Psychology/*physiology ; Research Design ; Self Concept ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Some animals are capable of recognizing themselves in a mirror, which is considered to be demonstrated by passing the mark test. Mirror self-recognition capacity has been found in just a few mammals having very large brains and only in one bird, the magpie (Pica pica). The results obtained in magpies have enormous biological and cognitive implications because the fact that magpies were able to pass the mark test meant that this species is at the same cognitive level with great apes, that mirror self-recognition has evolved independently in the magpie and great apes (which diverged 300 million years ago), and that the neocortex (which is not present in the bird's brains) is not a prerequisite for mirror self-recognition as previously believed. Here, we have replicated the experimental design used on magpies to determine whether jackdaws (Corvus monedula) are also capable of mirror self-recognition by passing the mark test. We found that our nine jackdaws showed a very high interest towards the mirror and exhibited self-contingent behavior as soon as mirrors were introduced. However, jackdaws were not able to pass the mark test: both sticker-directed actions and sticker removal were performed with a similar frequency in both the cardboard (control) and the mirror conditions. We conclude that our jackdaws' behaviour raises non-trivial questions about the methodology used in the avian mark test. Our study suggests that the use of self-adhesive stickers on sensitive throat feathers may open the way to artefactual results because birds might perceive the stickers tactilely.}, }
@article {pmid24474037, year = {2014}, author = {Dimitrov, D and Zehtindjiev, P and Bensch, S and Ilieva, M and Iezhova, T and Valkiūnas, G}, title = {Two new species of Haemoproteus Kruse, 1890 (Haemosporida, Haemoproteidae) from European birds, with emphasis on DNA barcoding for detection of haemosporidians in wildlife.}, journal = {Systematic parasitology}, volume = {87}, number = {2}, pages = {135-151}, pmid = {24474037}, issn = {1573-5192}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*parasitology ; Bulgaria ; Cytochromes b/genetics ; DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic/*standards ; *Haemosporida/classification/cytology/genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Two new species of Haemoproteus Kruse, 1890 (Haemosporida, Haemoproteidae) are described: Haemoproteus (Parahaemoproteus) homovelans n. sp. from Grey-faced Woodpecker, Picus canus Gmelin, and Haemoproteus (Parahaemoproteus) concavocentralis n. sp. recorded in Hawfinch, Coccothraustes coccothraustes (Linnaeus), both sampled in Bulgaria. The morphology of the gametocytes and their host-cells are described and mitochondrial cytochrome b (cyt b) gene sequences are generated. Haemoproteus homovelans possesses circumnuclear gametocytes lacking volutin granules. This parasite is particularly similar to Haemoproteus velans Coatney &amp; Roudabush, 1937 also possessing circumnuclear gametocytes that are, however, overfilled with volutin. Haemoproteus concavocentralis can be readily distinguished from all described avian haemoproteids due to the presence of an unfilled concave space between the central part of advanced gametocytes and erythrocyte nucleus. Bayesian phylogenetic analyses of 40 haemosporidian cyt b lineages showed close relationships of H. concavocentralis (hHAWF2) with a group of Haemoproteus spp. possessing gametocytes that are pale-stained with Giemsa. The lineage hPICAN02 of H. homovelans clustered with parasites infecting non-passerine birds. Phylogenetic analyses support the current subgeneric classification of the avian haemoproteids and suggest that cyt b lineage hPIPUB01 (GenBank EU254552) has been incorrectly assigned to Haemoproteus picae Coatney &amp; Roudabush, 1937, a common parasite of corvid birds (Passeriformes). This study emphasises the importance of combining molecular techniques and light microscopy in the identification and field studies of avian haemosporidian parasites. Future development of barcodes for molecular identification of haemoproteids will allow better diagnostics of these infections, particularly in veterinary studies addressing insufficiently investigated tissue pathology caused by these parasites.}, }
@article {pmid24468923, year = {2014}, author = {Ejaz, S and Camer, GA and Anwar, K and Ashraf, M}, title = {Monitoring impacts of air pollution: PIXE analysis and histopathological modalities in evaluating relative risks of elemental contamination.}, journal = {Ecotoxicology (London, England)}, volume = {23}, number = {3}, pages = {357-369}, pmid = {24468923}, issn = {1573-3017}, mesh = {Air Pollutants/*analysis/*pharmacokinetics/toxicity ; Aluminum/analysis/pharmacokinetics ; Animals ; *Birds ; Chlorine/analysis/pharmacokinetics ; Columbidae ; Environmental Monitoring/methods ; Iron/analysis/pharmacokinetics ; Kidney/drug effects/pathology ; Liver/drug effects/pathology ; Lung/drug effects/pathology ; Magnesium/analysis/pharmacokinetics ; Manganese/analysis/pharmacokinetics ; Pakistan ; Potassium/analysis/pharmacokinetics ; Risk Assessment ; Silicon Dioxide/analysis/pharmacokinetics ; Skin/drug effects/pathology ; Spectrometry, X-Ray Emission/methods ; Starlings ; Strigiformes ; Tissue Distribution ; }, abstract = {Environmental toxicants invariably affect all biological organisms resulting to sufferings ranging from subclinical to debilitating clinical conditions. This novel research aimed to determine the toxic burdens of increased environmental elements in some vital organs/tissues of the wild animals (starling, owl, crow and pigeon), exposed to air polluted environment were assessed using particle induced X-ray emission and histopathological approaches. The presence of significantly elevated amounts of elemental toxicants namely: Aluminum (Al), Chlorine (Cl), Iron (Fe), Potassium (K), Magnesium (Mg), Manganese (Mn), Silicon (Si) and Vanadium (V) from the skin, muscle, lungs, liver and kidney of sampled animals were in concurrence with the observed histopathological changes. The skin of sampled starling, owl, pigeon and crow spotlighted highly significant increase (P < 0.001) in Al, Cl, Mg and Si. Muscle samples with myodegenerative lesions and mineral depositions highlighted substantial augmentation (P < 0.001) in the amount of Al, Fe, Mn, Si and V. The lungs of starling, owl, and pigeon were severely intoxicated (P < 0.001) with increased amount of Al, Fe, K, Mn and Si producing pulmonary lesions of congestion, edema, pneumonitis and mineral debris depositions. Liver samples revealed that the sampled animals were laden with Cl, Fe, Mg, Mn and V with histopathological profound degenerative changes and hepatic necrosis. Kidney sections presented severe tubular degenerative and necrotic changes that may be attributed to increased amounts of Cl and Fe. These current findings implied that the environmental/elemental toxicants and the accompanying lesions that were discerned in the organs/tissues of sampled birds may as well be afflicting people living within the polluted area. Further assessment to more conclusively demonstrate correlations of current findings to those of the populace within the area is encouraged.}, }
@article {pmid24457049, year = {2014}, author = {Sheldon, MP}, title = {Claiming Darwin: Stephen Jay Gould in contests over evolutionary orthodoxy and public perception, 1977-2002.}, journal = {Studies in history and philosophy of biological and biomedical sciences}, volume = {45}, number = {}, pages = {139-147}, doi = {10.1016/j.shpsc.2013.10.002}, pmid = {24457049}, issn = {1879-2499}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Culture ; Dissent and Disputes/*history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Perception ; Philosophy/*history ; Public Opinion/*history ; Religious Philosophies/*history ; Science/*history ; United States ; }, abstract = {This article analyzes the impact of the resurgence of American creationism in the early 1980s on debates within post-synthesis evolutionary biology. During this period, many evolutionists criticized Harvard biologist Stephen Jay Gould for publicizing his revisions to traditional Darwinian theory and opening evolution to criticism by creationists. Gould's theory of punctuated equilibrium was a significant source of contention in these disputes. Both he and his critics, including Richard Dawkins, claimed to be carrying the mantle of Darwinian evolution. By the end of the 1990s, the debate over which evolutionary thinkers were the rightful heirs to Darwin's evolutionary theory was also a conversation over whether Darwinism could be defended against creationists in the broader cultural context. Gould and others' claims to Darwin shaped the contours of a political, religious and scientific controversy.}, }
@article {pmid24439574, year = {2014}, author = {Kandel, JJ}, title = {Serendipity: translational research, high quality care, and the children's hospital. Jay and Margie Grosfeld Lecture.}, journal = {Journal of pediatric surgery}, volume = {49}, number = {1}, pages = {19-24}, doi = {10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2013.09.023}, pmid = {24439574}, issn = {1531-5037}, mesh = {Child ; Cooperative Behavior ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Hospitals, Pediatric/*history/standards ; Humans ; Interdisciplinary Communication ; Lymphatic Abnormalities/drug therapy/history ; Pediatrics/*history ; Propranolol/history/therapeutic use ; *Quality of Health Care ; Specialties, Surgical/*history ; Translational Research, Biomedical/*history ; United States ; }, abstract = {The word "serendipity" was coined by Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford, in a letter he wrote in January 1754. He defined serendipity as the making of "….discoveries, by accidents and sagacity, of things which [you] were not in quest of….you must observe that no discovery of a thing you are looking for comes under this description." I would like to make the case that a children's hospital can be a superb setting in which to attempt this feat-to generate Serendipity. I would also like to convince you that this attribute is absolutely essential to providing the very best care for children.}, }
@article {pmid24431997, year = {2014}, author = {Bergman Nutley, S and Darki, F and Klingberg, T}, title = {Music practice is associated with development of working memory during childhood and adolescence.}, journal = {Frontiers in human neuroscience}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {926}, pmid = {24431997}, issn = {1662-5161}, abstract = {Practicing a musical instrument is associated with cognitive benefits and structural brain changes in correlational and interventional trials; however, the effect of musical training on cognition during childhood is still unclear. In this longitudinal study of child development we analyzed the association between musical practice and performance on reasoning, processing speed and working memory (WM) during development. Subjects (n = 352) between the ages of 6 and 25 years participated in neuropsychological assessments and neuroimaging investigations (n = 64) on two or three occasions, 2 years apart. Mixed model regression showed that musical practice had an overall positive association with WM capacity (visuo-spatial WM, F = 4.59, p = 0.033, verbal WM, F = 9.69, p = 0.002), processing speed, (F = 4.91, p = 0.027) and reasoning (Raven's progressive matrices, F = 28.34, p < 0.001) across all three time points, after correcting for the effect of parental education and other after school activities. Music players also had larger gray matter volume in the temporo-occipital and insular cortex (p = 0.008), areas previously reported to be related to musical notation reading. The change in WM between the time points was proportional to the weekly hours spent on music practice for both WM tests (VSWM, β = 0.351, p = 0.003, verbal WM, β = 0.261, p = 0.006) but this was not significant for reasoning ability (β = 0.021, p = 0.090). These effects remained when controlling for parental education and other after school activities. In conclusion, these results indicate that music practice positively affects WM development and support the importance of practice for the development of WM during childhood and adolescence.}, }
@article {pmid24431836, year = {2013}, author = {Chauhan, DS and Cariappa, KM and Guruprasad, Y}, title = {Botulinum toxin type a for the treatment of hyperkinetic lines of the face.}, journal = {Journal of maxillofacial and oral surgery}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {173-183}, pmid = {24431836}, issn = {0972-8279}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study sought to determine the efficacy of Botulinum toxin A (BTA) for the treatment of hyperkinetic lines of the face. Twenty three patients who were concerned for facial wrinkles and desiring correction are presented.<br><br>METHODS: This clinical study evaluated the postoperative results of 23 patients who underwent treatment for facial wrinkles with BTA. Among the patients included in the study, 20 were males and remaining 3 were females. The age of the patients ranged from 27 to 46&#xa0;years (mean 34.69&#xa0;years) and the treatment was done in three different sessions and divided into 3 treatment subgroups of forehead, crow's feet, and glabellar wrinkles.<br><br>RESULTS: All the patients were followed up for a period of at least 6&#xa0;months and graded for the response to treatment with BTA by the operator, observer and the patient independently using the facial wrinkle scale. The patient's satisfaction to the treatment was also noted on all the follow-up visits on the satisfaction scale and the results were subjected to statistical analysis using Kappa analysis, Chi-square test and T test. The results showed that the treatment of facial hyperkinetic lines with BTA is associated with few adverse events like pain on injection, transient headache, and mild change in facial appearance in subjects with high hair line which are not serious and thus safe.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The findings of this study support the use of BTA for the treatment of hyperkinetic lines of the face although further studies with more sample size are required.}, }
@article {pmid24426298, year = {2013}, author = {Bhatia, S and Kunal, A and Khandia, R and Siddiqui, A and Pateriya, AK and Sood, R}, title = {Genetic and antigenic analysis of H5N1 viruses for selection of HA-donor virus for vaccine strains.}, journal = {Indian journal of virology : an official organ of Indian Virological Society}, volume = {24}, number = {3}, pages = {357-364}, pmid = {24426298}, issn = {0970-2822}, abstract = {Genetic and antigenic analysis of H5N1 viruses, isolated in India during a period from year 2006 to 2010, was carried out for selection of the potential H5-HA (haemagglutinin) gene donor virus for developing a reverse genetics based DIVA marker H5 vaccine for poultry in India. Out of the 47 H5N1 viruses (clade 2.2), 14 representative viruses were selected on the basis of amino acid sequence analysis of HA1 gene for further antigenic characterization. Using antigenic cartography, an antigenic map was constructed based on the data of cross-HI (haemagglutinin inhibition) titration of 14 sera versus 14 viruses to visualize the relatedness among the antigens and antigenic coverage of the sera. Sera against five H5N1 viruses (A/crow/Assam/142119/2008, A/chicken/West Bengal/100879/2008, A/chicken/West Bengal/155505/2009, A/chicken/West Bengal/80995/2008 and A/chicken/West Bengal/81760/2008) exhibited maximum (100 %) antigenic coverage, hence, were selected as the potential HA donor viruses. However, the virus strain A/chicken/West Bengal/80995/2008 matched completely with the consensus amino acid sequence of the 47 viruses, therefore, was considered the best HA donor candidate out of the five showing 100 % antigenic coverage. The present study demonstrates a stepwise methodology for logical selection of vaccine strain or HA gene donor strain for developing H5 vaccines using genetic and antigenic data.}, }
@article {pmid24422355, year = {2013}, author = {Keppeke, Lde F and Cintra, Ide P and Schoen, TH}, title = {Bender Visual-Motor Gestalt Test in adolescents: relationship between visual-motor development and the Tanner Stages.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {117}, number = {1}, pages = {1299-1317}, doi = {10.2466/10.22.25.pms.117x10z1}, pmid = {24422355}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Bender-Gestalt Test/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Child ; Developmental Disabilities/psychology ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychometrics/statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Psychomotor Performance ; *Psychosexual Development ; Puberty/*psychology ; Reproducibility of Results ; Statistics as Topic ; }, abstract = {Visual-motor skill is fundamental to human development and is an important component of psychological evaluations. The goal of the present study was to determine whether there is a correlation between visual-motor development, as measured by the Bender Visual-Motor Gestalt Test (Bender test), and sexual maturity in adolescents, based on the Tanner Stages in Adolescents. 134 adolescents from 10 to 15 years of age participated in the study. The Bender test and the Raven's Progressive Matrices Test were employed. The measures were administered individually and information on sexual maturity and the presence of developmental disorders was collected from medical charts. The results of the Bender test were not affected by gender, age, schooling, or changes stemming from puberty, but were significantly affected by having repeated a school year and by developmental disorders. An association was found with Raven's scores. The Bender test proved sensitive to developmental disorders in adolescence. No association was found between visual-motor development and sexual maturity in adolescents.}, }
@article {pmid24421111, year = {2014}, author = {Dandár, E and Huhtamo, E and Farkas, SL and Oldal, M and Jakab, F and Vapalahti, O and Bányai, K}, title = {Complete genome analysis identifies Tvärminne avian virus as a candidate new species within the genus Orthoreovirus.}, journal = {The Journal of general virology}, volume = {95}, number = {Pt 4}, pages = {898-904}, doi = {10.1099/vir.0.060699-0}, pmid = {24421111}, issn = {1465-2099}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Cluster Analysis ; Finland ; *Genome, Viral ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Orthoreovirus, Avian/*classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Viral/*genetics ; *Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Orthoreoviruses have been associated with a variety of diseases in domesticated poultry and wild-living birds. In 2002, a reovirus strain named Tvärminne avian virus (TVAV), was identified in Finland in a crow showing neurological disorders. The objective of this study was the molecular characterization of this novel reovirus strain. Genome sequencing was performed by combining semiconductor sequencing and traditional capillary sequencing. Sequence and phylogenetic analyses showed that TVAV shares low nucleotide sequence identity with other reoviruses (range for each gene, 31-72 %) including strains belonging to the species Avian orthoreovirus. The most closely related reovirus strain was an isolate identified in Steller sea lion. Our data indicate that TVAV is a divergent reovirus of avian origin that may be the first representative of a distinct virus species within the genus Orthoreovirus.}, }
@article {pmid24408238, year = {2013}, author = {Cardoso, AM and Silva, MM and Pereira, MM}, title = {Phonological awareness and the working memory of children with and without literacy difficulties.}, journal = {CoDAS}, volume = {25}, number = {2}, pages = {110-114}, doi = {10.1590/s2317-17822013000200004}, pmid = {24408238}, issn = {2317-1782}, mesh = {Awareness ; Child ; Child Language ; Female ; Humans ; Language Tests ; Learning ; Male ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Phonetics ; Reading ; Speech Perception/*physiology ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Writing ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To investigate phonological awareness and working memory skills as well as their influence on the literacy process in a group of intellectually normal children.<br><br>METHODS: Forty intellectually normal children (7.6-8.0 years) from the second and third grades of elementary school participated. Children were organized in two groups (20 children each): one with and another without literacy difficulties. These participants underwent RAVEN's intelligence quotient test, audiometric assessment, CONFIAS test of phonological awareness, written spelling task, and working memory test.<br><br>RESULTS: Children in the alphabetic phase presented a good development of phonological awareness, and 85% of them showed a high-performance working memory. Children in the syllabic-alphabetic phase had changes in phonological awareness, and 91.6% of them showed an average working memory performance. The subjects at pre-syllabic and syllabic phases demonstrated more difficulties in phonological awareness than those at syllabic-alphabetic and had a poor working memory performance. Between-group differences were observed for CONFIAS and working memory tests (p<0.0001). There was also a significant correlation (r=0.78, p=0.01) between the skills of phonological awareness and working memory for the total sample of individuals.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Based on these results, it was found that as phonological awareness and working memory levels increased, the literacy phase also advanced, therefore showing that these are directly proportional measures.}, }
@article {pmid24400897, year = {2014}, author = {Knapp, S}, title = {Why is a raven like a writing desk? Origins of the sunflower that is neither an artichoke nor from Jerusalem.}, journal = {The New phytologist}, volume = {201}, number = {3}, pages = {710-711}, doi = {10.1111/nph.12624}, pmid = {24400897}, issn = {1469-8137}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Crops, Agricultural/*genetics ; Genome, Plant/*genetics ; Helianthus/*genetics ; Plant Tubers/*genetics ; }, }
@article {pmid24399892, year = {2013}, author = {Wagner, WL and Krakos, KN and Hoch, PC}, title = {Taxonomic changes in Oenothera sections Gaura and Calylophus (Onagraceae).}, journal = {PhytoKeys}, volume = {}, number = {28}, pages = {61-72}, pmid = {24399892}, issn = {1314-2011}, abstract = {The long-recognized genus Gaura was shown recently to be deeply nested within one of two major clades of Oenothera. New molecular data indicate further taxonomic changes are necessary in Oenothera sect. Gaura. We make these changes here, including three new combinations, in advance of the Onagraceae treatment for the Flora of North America. The new phylogenetic studies show that several pairs of taxa treated as subspecies in the most recent revision by Raven and Gregory (1972) had independent origins within sect. Gaura, and are here elevated to species level (Oenothera nealleyi for Gaura suffulta subsp. nealleyi; Oenothera dodgeniana for Gaura neomexicana subsp. neomexicana; and Oenothera podocarpa for Gaura hexandra subsp. gracilis). Also, a nomenclatural problem in Oenothera sect. Calylophus is corrected by adopting the name Oenothera capillifolia Scheele for the species known previously, and nomenclaturally correct, as Calylophus berlandieri Spach. This problem necessitates a new combination Oenothera capillifolia subsp. berlandieri.}, }
@article {pmid24395967, year = {2014}, author = {Martin, GR}, title = {The subtlety of simple eyes: the tuning of visual fields to perceptual challenges in birds.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {369}, number = {1636}, pages = {20130040}, pmid = {24395967}, issn = {1471-2970}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Eye/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Feeding Behavior ; Flight, Animal ; Visual Fields/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Birds show interspecific variation both in the size of the fields of individual eyes and in the ways that these fields are brought together to produce the total visual field. Variation is found in the dimensions of all main parameters: binocular region, cyclopean field and blind areas. There is a phylogenetic signal with respect to maximum width of the binocular field in that passerine species have significantly broader field widths than non-passerines; broadest fields are found among crows (Corvidae). Among non-passerines, visual fields show considerable variation within families and even within some genera. It is argued that (i) the main drivers of differences in visual fields are associated with perceptual challenges that arise through different modes of foraging, and (ii) the primary function of binocularity in birds lies in the control of bill position rather than in the control of locomotion. The informational function of binocular vision does not lie in binocularity per se (two eyes receiving slightly different information simultaneously about the same objects from which higher-order depth information is extracted), but in the contralateral projection of the visual field of each eye. Contralateral projection ensures that each eye receives information from a symmetrically expanding optic flow-field from which direction of travel and time to contact targets can be extracted, particularly with respect to the control of bill position.}, }
@article {pmid24391878, year = {2013}, author = {Loncaric, I and Stalder, GL and Mehinagic, K and Rosengarten, R and Hoelzl, F and Knauer, F and Walzer, C}, title = {Comparison of ESBL--and AmpC producing Enterobacteriaceae and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolated from migratory and resident population of rooks (Corvus frugilegus) in Austria.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {8}, number = {12}, pages = {e84048}, pmid = {24391878}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Ampicillin/*metabolism ; Animal Diseases/*microbiology ; *Animal Migration ; Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Austria ; Crows ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics ; Drug Resistance, Microbial/genetics ; Enterobacteriaceae/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Enterobacteriaceae Infections/drug therapy/microbiology/veterinary ; Escherichia coli/classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Escherichia coli Infections/drug therapy/microbiology/*veterinary ; Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Phylogeny ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Staphylococcal Infections/drug therapy/microbiology/veterinary ; beta-Lactamases/*genetics ; }, abstract = {In order to test whether rooks (Corvus frugilegus) represent good indicators for the potential circulation of antibiotics in their native habitat, two populations with different migratory behavior were tested for the presence of beta-lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). In all, 54 and 102 samples of fresh feces of a migratory and a resident population were investigated. A total of 24 and 3 cefotaxime-resistant enterobacterial isolates were obtained from the migratory and resident population, respectively. In these isolates CTX-M-1 (n = 15), CTX-M-3 (n = 3), and CTX-M-15 (n = 3) genes were detected. TEM-1 and OXA-1 were associated with CTX-M in 3 and 2 isolates, respectively. In two E. coli isolates CMY-2 could be detected, where from one isolate displayed an overexpression of chromosomal AmpC as well. Among E. coli isolates the most common phylogenetic group was A (n = 11) and ST1683 (n = 5). In one E. coli of B2-ST131 the rfbO25b locus was detected. Three Enterobacter isolates were stably derepressed AmpC-producers. In five samples of the migratory population, PVL positive MRSA could be isolated. Two isolates were typed SCCmec IVa, spa type t127, and ST1. Three isolates carried a SCCmec type IVc, with spa type t852 and ST22. The highly significant difference of the occurrence of antibiotic resistance between the migratory population from eastern Europe compared to resident population in our study indicates that rooks may be good indicator species for the evaluation of environmental contamination with antibiotic resistant bacteria, especially due to their ecology, foraging behavior and differing migratory behavior.}, }
@article {pmid24385118, year = {2014}, author = {Farris, PK and Edison, BL and Weinkauf, RL and Green, BA}, title = {A novel, volumizing cosmetic formulation significantly improves the appearance of target Glabellar lines, nasolabial folds, and crow's feet in a double-blind, vehicle-controlled clinical trial.}, journal = {Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {41-46}, pmid = {24385118}, issn = {1545-9616}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Aged ; Chemistry, Pharmaceutical ; Cosmetics/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Double-Blind Method ; Elasticity ; *Face ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Nasolabial Fold ; Skin/*pathology ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Tyrosine/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/*analogs &amp; derivatives/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {Facial lines and wrinkles are caused by many factors including constant exposure to external elements, such as UV rays, as well as the dynamic nature of facial expression. Many cosmetic products and procedures provide global improvement to aging skin, whereas injectable therapies are frequently utilized to diminish specific, target wrinkles. Despite their broad availability, some patients are unwilling to undergo injectables and would benefit from an effective topical option. A noninvasive option to volumize target wrinkle areas could also extend benefits of commonly used cosmetic anti-aging products. To this end, a two-step formulation containing the novel, cosmetic anti-aging ingredient, N-acetyl tyrosinamide, was developed for use on targeted wrinkle areas. The tolerability and efficacy of the serum plus cream were tested for 16 weeks in women with moderate facial photodamage on predetermined wrinkle areas (glabellar lines, nasolabial folds, under eye lines, and lateral canthal (crow's feet) wrinkles) in a single-center, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled, clinical trial. Seventy women (47 Active group, 23 Vehicle group) completed the study. Digital photography, clinical grading, ultrasound and self-assessment scores confirmed improvement to wrinkle areas. The topical cosmetic formulation was statistically superior (P<0.05) to its vehicle in visually improving nasolabial folds, glabellar lines, crow's feet, and under eye wrinkles and in reducing pinch recoil time. Both the test formulation and its vehicle were tolerated well. The novel, two-step cosmetic formulation reduced the appearance of wrinkles and increased skin elasticity thus providing an effective anti-aging option for target wrinkle areas. This study suggests that in addition to its use as monotherapy for reducing targeted lines and wrinkles this cosmetic formulation may be also serve as an adjuvant to injectable therapies.}, }
@article {pmid24382736, year = {2014}, author = {Brockmeier, SF}, title = {The tortoise versus the hare--it's a photo finish: commentary on the article by Jay D. Keener, MD, et al.: "Rehabilitation following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. A prospective randomized trial of immobilization compared with early motion".}, journal = {The Journal of bone and joint surgery. American volume}, volume = {96}, number = {1}, pages = {e8}, doi = {10.2106/JBJS.M.01425}, pmid = {24382736}, issn = {1535-1386}, mesh = {*Early Ambulation ; Humans ; *Immobilization ; Motion Therapy, Continuous Passive/*methods ; Rotator Cuff/*surgery ; *Rotator Cuff Injuries ; }, }
@article {pmid24378212, year = {2014}, author = {Thom, JM and Clayton, NS}, title = {No evidence of temporal preferences in caching by Western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica).}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {103}, number = {100}, pages = {173-179}, pmid = {24378212}, issn = {1872-8308}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; //Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animal Feed ; Animals ; Diet ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Housing, Animal ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Reward ; Time Perception/physiology ; }, abstract = {Humans and other animals often favour immediate gratification over long-term gain. Primates, including humans, appear more willing to wait for rewards than other animals, such as rats or pigeons. Another group displaying impressive patience are the corvids, which possess large brains and show sophisticated cognitive abilities. Here, we assess intertemporal choice in one corvid species, the Western scrub-jay (Aphelocoma californica). These birds cache food for future consumption and respond flexibly to future needs. Cache-theft and cache-degradation are time-dependent processes in scrub-jay ecology that might necessitate sensitivity to delays between caching and retrieval. We adopt a caching paradigm with delays of up to 49 h. Across two experiments we find no evidence of a preference for earlier recovery. We highlight the possibility that, although scrub-jays can discriminate between the present and the future, they may not understand how far into the future an event will occur.}, }
@article {pmid24375244, year = {2013}, author = {Kalasūnienė, L and Goštautas, A and Sinkus, A}, title = {Heredity of cognitive functions and personality in twins.}, journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)}, volume = {49}, number = {7}, pages = {321-328}, pmid = {24375244}, issn = {1648-9144}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Child ; *Cognition ; *Extraversion, Psychological ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Personality/*genetics ; *Temperament ; Twins, Dizygotic/*genetics ; Twins, Monozygotic/*genetics ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The inheritance of cognitive functions and personality is still a problem under investigation. A classical method, investigation of twins, is often used to find relative contributions from genetics and the environment to quantitative traits. The aim of this study was to investigate a possible influence of heredity on cognitive functions (by applying the Raven test) and personality traits (according to the Eysenck's theory) in twins.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: In total, 139 pairs of same-sex twins were investigated. The zygosity of the twin pairs was confirmed through genotyping with 15 molecular DNA markers. Constructive thinking was assessed using the Raven test. Personality assessment was conducted using the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ) in Lithuanian.<br><br>RESULTS: The difference in the total number of incorrect solutions between monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic (DZ) twin pairs younger than 15 years was not significant; however, in the group older than 15 years, this difference was found to be significant. Based on the total number of incorrect solutions, the concordance in the MZ twins was greater than in the DZ twins. The same tendency was found with cumulative EPQ scores on the extraversion scale.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The results imply that the quality of cognitive functions and personality traits (extraversion) can be influenced by heredity. This confirms previous findings on the heritability of cognitive factors and personality traits.}, }
@article {pmid24375131, year = {2014}, author = {Weis, AM and Miller, WA and Byrne, BA and Chouicha, N and Boyce, WM and Townsend, AK}, title = {Prevalence and pathogenic potential of campylobacter isolates from free-living, human-commensal american crows.}, journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology}, volume = {80}, number = {5}, pages = {1639-1644}, pmid = {24375131}, issn = {1098-5336}, mesh = {Animals ; Bacterial Toxins/genetics ; Bacterial Typing Techniques ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/*microbiology ; California ; Campylobacter Infections/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; Campylobacter jejuni/*isolation &amp; purification ; Cluster Analysis ; Crows/*microbiology ; DNA, Bacterial/chemistry/genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal/chemistry/genetics ; Flagellin/genetics ; Humans ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Prevalence ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Recent studies have suggested a potential role for wild birds in zoonotic transmission of Campylobacter jejuni, the leading cause of gastroenteritis in humans worldwide. In this study, we detected Campylobacter spp. in 66.9% (85/127) of free-ranging American crows (Corvus brachyrhyncos) sampled in the Sacramento Valley of California in 2012 and 2013. Biochemical testing and sequence analysis of 16S rRNA revealed that 93% of isolates (n = 70) were C. jejuni, with cytolethal distending toxin (CDT) and flagellin A genes detected by PCR in 20% and 46% of the C. jejuni isolates (n = 59), respectively. The high prevalence of C. jejuni, coupled with the occurrence of known virulence markers CDT and flagellin A, demonstrates that crows shed Campylobacter spp. in their feces that are potentially pathogenic to humans. Crows are abundant in urban, suburban, and agricultural settings, and thus further study to determine their role in zoonotic transmission of Campylobacter will inform public health.}, }
@article {pmid24368742, year = {2014}, author = {Nahar, MN and Inaoka, T and Fujimura, M}, title = {A consecutive study on arsenic exposure and intelligence quotient (IQ) of children in Bangladesh.}, journal = {Environmental health and preventive medicine}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {194-199}, pmid = {24368742}, issn = {1347-4715}, mesh = {Arsenic/analysis/*urine ; Bangladesh ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Drinking Water/*analysis ; *Environmental Exposure ; Environmental Monitoring ; Humans ; Intelligence/*drug effects ; Intelligence Tests ; Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis/*urine ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: In a recent cross-sectional investigation, we reported the intellectual function of adolescents (aged 14 and 15 years) in Bangladesh who had been exposed to arsenic (As). Here, we report a consecutive investigation on the intelligence quotient (IQ) of 408 children who are living in the Sonargoan Thana of Bangladesh (two age groups: 9 and 10 years; 4 and 5 years) were exposed to high levels of As in the groundwater.<br><br>METHODS: Urine and water samples were collected to assess As exposure. The IQ of the children was estimated using the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices and the Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test. Information on parents' socioeconomic status (SES) was collected as confounding factors.<br><br>RESULTS: The results indicate that As exposure was responsible for a lower IQ. The concentration of urinary As ([As]u) was associated with reduced intellectual function in a dose-response manner. A stronger association was found between reduced intellectual function (IQ) and [As]u than the level of As in the drinking water&#xa0;[As]w. There was no association between verbal IQ scores and [As]u of children in early childhood (aged 4 and 5&#xa0;years).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Based on these results, we conclude that current levels of As in the urine ([As]u), which we considered to reflect recent exposure to As from all possible sources, including groundwater, food, among others, were negatively associated to the IQ of the children tested, and that this adverse effect of As may also gradually accumulate over time among the poor.}, }
@article {pmid24355535, year = {2014}, author = {Bennett, MD and Gillett, A}, title = {Butcherbird polyomavirus isolated from a grey butcherbird (Cracticus torquatus) in Queensland, Australia.}, journal = {Veterinary microbiology}, volume = {168}, number = {2-4}, pages = {302-311}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2013.11.026}, pmid = {24355535}, issn = {1873-2542}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Avipoxvirus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Base Sequence ; Coinfection/virology ; Genome, Viral ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Open Reading Frames ; Passeriformes/genetics/*virology ; Phylogeny ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Polyomavirus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Polyomavirus Infections/*veterinary ; Poxviridae Infections/*veterinary ; Queensland ; Tumor Virus Infections/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {A novel avian polyomavirus was detected in peri-ocular skin lesions collected from a grey butcherbird (Cracticus torquatus), using a combination of multiply primed rolling circle amplification, nested PCR and long range PCR. The sequence of Butcherbird polyomavirus was determined by combining next generation sequencing and primer walking techniques. The circular double-stranded DNA genome of Butcherbird polyomavirus consisted of 5084 bp, and encoded six open reading frames (ORF-X, VP2, VP3, VP1, small T-antigen and large T-antigen). Phylogenetic analysis placed it amongst other members of the genus Avipolyomavirus, most closely related to Crow polyomavirus. Next generation sequencing enabled the detection of DNA fragments similar to, but distinct from, Canarypox virus within the same lesion from which Butcherbird polyomavirus was amplified, thus confirming an avipolyomavirus-avipoxvirus co-infection in the peri-ocular skin lesions of this grey butcherbird.}, }
@article {pmid24353247, year = {2014}, author = {Pessa, JE and Nguyen, H and John, GB and Scherer, PE}, title = {The anatomical basis for wrinkles.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {34}, number = {2}, pages = {227-234}, doi = {10.1177/1090820X13517896}, pmid = {24353247}, issn = {1527-330X}, mesh = {Adipose Tissue/*anatomy &amp; histology/surgery ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cadaver ; Dissection ; Face/*anatomy &amp; histology/surgery ; Female ; Fluorescent Dyes ; Hand/anatomy &amp; histology/surgery ; Humans ; Immunohistochemistry ; Lymphatic Vessels/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Male ; Microscopy, Confocal ; Middle Aged ; Muscle, Skeletal/*anatomy &amp; histology/surgery ; Skin/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Skin Aging/*physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Light and electron microscopy have not identified a distinct anatomical structure associated with either skin wrinkles or creases, and a histological difference between wrinkled and adjacent skin has not been identified.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The authors investigate whether facial wrinkles are related to underlying lymphatic vessels and perilymphatic fat.<br><br>METHODS: Lymphatic vessels with a specialized tube of perilymphatic fat were identified beneath palmar creases. Sections of skin, adipose tissue, and muscle were harvested from each of 13 cadavers. Three sites were investigated: the transverse forehead crease, lateral orbicularis oculi wrinkle (crow's feet), and the nasojugal crease. The tissue was paraffin embedded and processed. Two-step indirect immunohistochemistry was performed, and images were examined using laser confocal microscopy. Measurements were taken with software.<br><br>RESULTS: Every wrinkle examined was found above and within &#xb1;1 mm of a major lymphatic vessel and its surrounding tube of adipose tissue. The results satisfied our null hypothesis and were statistically significant. Lymphatic vessels were identified by positive immunofluorescence as well as histological criteria. These findings have been further validated by fluorochrome tracer studies.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: An anatomical basis for wrinkles was identified among the specimens studied. Lymphatic vessels, along with the surrounding distinct perilymphatic fat, traveled directly beneath wrinkles and creases. Lymphatic dysregulation leads to inflammation, scarring, and fibrosis, but inadvertent injection of these vessels can be avoided with anatomical knowledge.}, }
@article {pmid24346060, year = {2014}, author = {Sepkoski, D}, title = {Paleontology at the "high table"? Popularization and disciplinary status in recent paleontology.}, journal = {Studies in history and philosophy of biological and biomedical sciences}, volume = {45}, number = {}, pages = {133-138}, doi = {10.1016/j.shpsc.2013.11.006}, pmid = {24346060}, issn = {1879-2499}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Biology/*history ; Books/*history ; Fossils ; History, 20th Century ; Literature, Modern/*history ; Paleontology/*history ; Science/history ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {This paper examines the way in which paleontologists used "popular books" to call for a broader "expanded synthesis" of evolutionary biology. Beginning in the 1970s, a group of influential paleontologists, including Stephen Jay Gould, Niles Eldredge, David Raup, Steven Stanley, and others, aggressively promoted a new theoretical, evolutionary approach to the fossil record as an important revision of the existing synthetic view of Darwinism. This work had a transformative effect within the discipline of paleontology. However, by the 1980s, paleontologists began making their case to a wider audience, both within evolutionary biology, and to the general public. Many of their books-for example, Eldredge's provocatively-titled Unfinished Synthesis-explicitly argued that the received synthetic view of Darwinian evolution was incomplete, and that paleontological contributions such as punctuated equilibria, the hierarchical model of macroevolution, and the study of mass extinction dynamics offered a substantial corrective to evolutionary theory. This paper argues that books-far from being "mere popularizations" of scientific ideas-played an important role in disciplinary debates surrounding evolutionary theory during the 1980s, and in particular that paleontologists like Gould and Eldredge self-consciously adopted the book format because of the importance of that genre in the history of evolutionary biology.}, }
@article {pmid24339544, year = {2013}, author = {Sohkhlet, B}, title = {Index of opportunity for natural selection among the Gowdas of Kodagahalli village, Karnataka, India.}, journal = {Indian journal of human genetics}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {315-319}, pmid = {24339544}, issn = {0971-6866}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In order to understand how selection is operating in the Gowda population, the index of opportunity for selection was calculated and the present findings were compared with some related findings from other South Indian (SI) populations.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Crow (1958) and the modified method by Johnston and Kensinger (1971) were used for the present purpose.<br><br>RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The index of total selection intensity (I) was found to be moderate taking into consideration the range for many Indian populations. Considering certain differences in fertility and mortality heritable, it appears that natural selection play an important role in shaping the genetic constitution of the Gowda population. Analysis of data indicates that the index due to fertility seems to contribute more towards selection than mortality. This trend might be because of better living condition and health-care system among the Gowdas which have a positive impact on the lower contribution of mortality for the evolution mechanism of the Gowda population through natural selection.}, }
@article {pmid24338263, year = {2014}, author = {Lin, WS and Chen, JY and Wang, JC and Chen, LY and Lin, CH and Hsieh, TR and Wang, MF and Fu, TF and Wang, PY}, title = {The anti-aging effects of Ludwigia octovalvis on Drosophila melanogaster and SAMP8 mice.}, journal = {Age (Dordrecht, Netherlands)}, volume = {36}, number = {2}, pages = {689-703}, pmid = {24338263}, issn = {1574-4647}, mesh = {AMP-Activated Protein Kinases/drug effects/genetics/metabolism ; Aging/*drug effects ; Animals ; Blotting, Western ; Caloric Restriction ; Cells, Cultured ; Drosophila melanogaster/cytology/*growth &amp; development ; Enzyme Activation ; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry ; Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental/drug effects ; Longevity/drug effects ; Male ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred Strains ; *Onagraceae ; Oxidative Stress ; Phytotherapy/*methods ; Plant Preparations/*therapeutic use ; RNA/genetics ; Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction ; }, abstract = {We investigated the anti-aging effects of Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) P. H. Raven (Onagraceae), an extract of which is widely consumed as a healthful drink in a number of countries. Using the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, as a model organism, we demonstrated that L. octovalvis extract (LOE) significantly extended fly lifespan on a high, but not a low, calorie diet, indicating that LOE may regulate lifespan through a dietary restriction (DR)-related pathway. LOE also attenuated age-related cognitive decline in both flies and in the senescence-accelerated-prone 8 (SAMP8) mouse, without causing any discernable negative trade-offs, including water intake, food intake, fecundity, or spontaneous motor activity. LOE contained high levels of polyphenols and flavonoids, which possess strong DPPH radical scavenging activity, and was shown to attenuate paraquat-induced oxidative damage and lethality in flies. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses identified 17 known molecules, of which β-sitosterol and squalene were the two most abundant. We further demonstrated that β-sitosterol was capable of extending lifespan, likely through activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in the fat body of adult flies. Taken together, our data suggest that LOE is a potent anti-aging intervention with potential for treating age-related disorders.}, }
@article {pmid24334304, year = {2014}, author = {Ryu, MH and Kahng, D and Shin, Y}, title = {Surgical correction of crow's feet deformity with radiofrequency current.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {34}, number = {1}, pages = {28-33}, doi = {10.1177/1090820X13515271}, pmid = {24334304}, issn = {1527-330X}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; *Aging ; Female ; Fibrosis ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Oculomotor Muscles/pathology/*surgery ; Radio Waves/adverse effects ; *Radiofrequency Therapy ; *Plastic Surgery Procedures/adverse effects ; *Rejuvenation ; *Skin Aging ; Surgical Flaps ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: There are many published surgical techniques for the correction of crow's feet deformity, but subsequent contour irregularities and early recurrence are often reported.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The authors present a radiofrequency (RF) technique to treat crow's feet that can prevent complications while simultaneously maintaining long-term results.<br><br>METHODS: From April 2010 to February 2012, a total of 52 consecutive patients (3 men and 49 women) underwent surgical correction of crow's feet with an RF current. Following elevation of the skin flap in the temporal area, the lateral portion of the orbicularis oculi muscle was partially elevated and splayed. Then the RF current was applied to the elevated muscle flap until the target temperature of 60&#xb0;C to 80&#xb0;C was reached. Clinical outcomes were observed through photographs with patients in a natural smiling position.<br><br>RESULTS: Mean (SD) patient age was 52.7 (2.2) years (range, 31-73 years). Patients were followed postoperatively during a mean period of 23 months (range, 15-36 months). There were no recurrences of crow's feet during the follow-up period. No major complications were noted.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The main advantage of this surgical technique is preserving continuity of the orbicularis oculi muscle while selectively decreasing muscle tone. Hence, this technique may prevent any contour irregularities. The RF current causes irreversible muscle fibrosis, which in turn provides long-lasting results. While the early results of this series show promising long-term efficacy and a good safety profile, the small number of patients and short-term follow-up period warrant further study.}, }
@article {pmid24333834, year = {2014}, author = {Jacobs, IF and Osvath, M and Osvath, H and Mioduszewska, B and von Bayern, AM and Kacelnik, A}, title = {Object caching in corvids: incidence and significance.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {102}, number = {}, pages = {25-32}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2013.12.003}, pmid = {24333834}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Exploratory Behavior/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Food ; Male ; }, abstract = {Food caching is a paramount model for studying relations between cognition, brain organisation and ecology in corvids. In contrast, behaviour towards inedible objects is poorly examined and understood. We review the literature on object caching in corvids and other birds, and describe an exploratory study on object caching in ravens, New Caledonian crows and jackdaws. The captive adult birds were presented with an identical set of novel objects adjacent to food. All three species cached objects, which shows the behaviour not to be restricted to juveniles, food cachers, tool-users or individuals deprived of cacheable food. The pattern of object interaction and caching did not mirror the incidence of food caching: the intensely food caching ravens indeed showed highest object caching incidence, but the rarely food caching jackdaws cached objects to similar extent as the moderate food caching New Caledonian crows. Ravens and jackdaws preferred objects with greater sphericity, but New Caledonian crows preferred stick-like objects (similar to tools). We suggest that the observed object caching might have been expressions of exploration or play, and deserves being studied in its own right because of its potential significance for tool-related behaviour and learning, rather than as an over-spill from food-caching research. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: CO3 2013.}, }
@article {pmid24333226, year = {2014}, author = {Cibulski, L and Wascher, CA and Weiss, BM and Kotrschal, K}, title = {Familiarity with the experimenter influences the performance of Common ravens (Corvus corax) and Carrion crows (Corvus corone corone) in cognitive tasks.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {103}, number = {100}, pages = {129-137}, pmid = {24333226}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Anxiety/psychology ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Choice Behavior/physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Motivation/physiology ; Psychology, Experimental/*methods ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Recognition, Psychology/*physiology ; Seasons ; Species Specificity ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {When humans and animals interact with one another over an extended time span they familiarise and may develop a relationship, which can exert an influence on both partners. For example, the behaviour of an animal in experiments may be affected by its relationship to the human experimenter. However, few studies have systematically examined the impact of human-animal relationships on experimental results. In the present study we investigated if familiarity with a human experimenter influences the performance of Common ravens (Corvus corax) and Carrion crows (Corvus corone corone) in interactive tasks. Birds were tested in two interactive cognitive tasks (exchange, object choice) by several experimenters representing different levels of familiarity (long and short-term). Our findings show that the birds participated more often in both tasks and were more successful in the exchange task when working with long-term experimenters than when working with short-term experimenters. Behavioural observations indicate that anxiety did not inhibit experimental performance but that the birds' motivation to work differed between the two kinds of experimenters, familiar and less familiar. We conclude that human-animal relationships (i.e. familiarity) may affect the experimental performance of corvids in interactive cognitive tasks.}, }
@article {pmid24333225, year = {2014}, author = {Bednekoff, PA and Balda, RP}, title = {Clark's nutcracker spatial memory: the importance of large, structural cues.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {102}, number = {}, pages = {12-17}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2013.12.004}, pmid = {24333225}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Cues ; Memory/*physiology ; Passeriformes ; Space Perception/*physiology ; Spatial Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Clark's nutcrackers, Nucifraga columbiana, cache and recover stored seeds in high alpine areas including areas where snowfall, wind, and rockslides may frequently obscure or alter cues near the cache site. Previous work in the laboratory has established that Clark's nutcrackers use spatial memory to relocate cached food. Following from aspects of this work, we performed experiments to test the importance of large, structural cues for Clark's nutcracker spatial memory. Birds were no more accurate in recovering caches when more objects were on the floor of a large experimental room nor when this room was subdivided with a set of panels. However, nutcrackers were consistently less accurate in this large room than in a small experimental room. Clark's nutcrackers probably use structural features of experimental rooms as important landmarks during recovery of cached food. This use of large, extremely stable cues may reflect the imperfect reliability of smaller, closer cues in the natural habitat of Clark's nutcrackers. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: CO3 2013.}, }
@article {pmid24331889, year = {2013}, author = {Ellwardt, L and Aartsen, M and Deeg, D and Steverink, N}, title = {Does loneliness mediate the relation between social support and cognitive functioning in later life?.}, journal = {Social science &amp; medicine (1982)}, volume = {98}, number = {}, pages = {116-124}, doi = {10.1016/j.socscimed.2013.09.002}, pmid = {24331889}, issn = {1873-5347}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*psychology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Loneliness/*psychology ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Netherlands ; *Social Support ; }, abstract = {Research in gerontology has demonstrated mixed effects of social support on cognitive decline and dementia: Social support has been shown to be protective in some studies, but not in others. Moreover, little is known about the underlying mechanisms between social support and cognitive functioning. We investigate one of the possible mechanisms, and argue that subjective appraisals rather than received amounts of social support affect cognitive functioning. Loneliness is seen as an unpleasant experience that occurs when a person's network of relationships is felt to be deficient in some important way. As such, loneliness describes the extent to which someone's needs are not being met and thus provides a subjective assessment of support quality. We expect that receiving instrumental and emotional support reduces loneliness, which in turn preserves cognitive functioning. Data are from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASA) and include 2255 Dutch participants aged 55-85 over a period of six years. Respondents were measured every three years. Cognitive functioning was assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Coding Task, and the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices. The analytical approach comprised latent growth mediation models. Frequent emotional support related to reduced feelings of loneliness and better cognitive functioning. Increases in emotional support also directly enhanced cognitive performance. The protective effect of emotional support was strongest amongst adults aged 65 years and older. Increase in instrumental support did not buffer cognitive decline, instead there were indications for faster decline. After ruling out the possibility of reversed causation, we conclude that emotional support relationships are a more powerful protector of cognitive decline than instrumental support relationships.}, }
@article {pmid24329306, year = {2013}, author = {Saakian, DB and Hu, CK}, title = {Evolutionary advantage via common action of recombination and neutrality.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {88}, number = {5}, pages = {052717}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.88.052717}, pmid = {24329306}, issn = {1550-2376}, mesh = {*Evolution, Molecular ; HIV/genetics/physiology ; *Models, Genetic ; *Recombination, Genetic ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {We investigate evolution models with recombination and neutrality. We consider the Crow-Kimura (parallel) mutation-selection model with the neutral fitness landscape, in which there is a central peak with high fitness A, and some of 1-point mutants have the same high fitness A, while the fitness of other sequences is 0. We find that the effect of recombination and neutrality depends on the concrete version of both neutrality and recombination. We consider three versions of neutrality: (a) all the nearest neighbor sequences of the peak sequence have the same high fitness A; (b) all the l-point mutations in a piece of genome of length l≥1 are neutral; (c) the neutral sequences are randomly distributed among the nearest neighbors of the peak sequences. We also consider three versions of recombination: (I) the simple horizontal gene transfer (HGT) of one nucleotide; (II) the exchange of a piece of genome of length l, HGT-l; (III) two-point crossover recombination (2CR). For the case of (a), the 2CR gives a rather strong contribution to the mean fitness, much stronger than that of HGT for a large genome length L. For the random distribution of neutral sequences there is a critical degree of neutrality ν(c), and for μ<μ(c) and (μ(c)-μ) is not large, the 2CR suppresses the mean fitness while HGT increases it; for ν much larger than ν(c), the 2CR and HGT-l increase the mean fitness larger than that of the HGT. We also consider the recombination in the case of smooth fitness landscapes. The recombination gives some advantage in the evolutionary dynamics, where recombination distinguishes clearly the mean-field-like evolutionary factors from the fluctuation-like ones. By contrast, mutations affect the mean-field-like and fluctuation-like factors similarly. Consequently, recombination can accelerate the non-mean-field (fluctuation) type dynamics without considerably affecting the mean-field-like factors.}, }
@article {pmid24322875, year = {2014}, author = {Watanabe, A and Grodzinski, U and Clayton, NS}, title = {Western scrub-jays allocate longer observation time to more valuable information.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {17}, number = {4}, pages = {859-867}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-013-0719-7}, pmid = {24322875}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Learning ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; Social Behavior ; Spatial Memory ; }, abstract = {When humans mentally reconstruct past events and imagine future scenarios, their subjective experience of mentally time travelling is accompanied by the awareness of doing so. Despite recent popularity of studying episodic memory in animals, such phenomenological consciousness has been extremely difficult to demonstrate without agreed behavioural markers of consciousness in non-linguistic subjects. We presented western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) with a task requiring them to allocate observing time between two peepholes to see food being hidden in either of two compartments, one where observing the hiding location was necessary to later relocate the food, and another where food could easily be found without watching. Jays first separately experienced these consequences of possessing information in each compartment and subsequently, once given a choice, made more looks and spent more time looking into the compartment where information was necessary than into the compartment where it was unnecessary. Thus, the jays can collect information to solve a future problem. Moreover, they can differentiate sources of information according to their potential value and modify behaviour to efficiently collect important, usable information. This is the first evidence of metacognition in a species that passes the behavioural criteria for both retrospective and prospective mental time travel.}, }
@article {pmid24318416, year = {2013}, author = {Kassir, R and Kolluru, A and Kassir, M}, title = {Triple-Blind, Prospective, Internally Controlled Comparative Study Between AbobotulinumtoxinA and OnabotulinumtoxinA for the Treatment of Facial Rhytids.}, journal = {Dermatology and therapy}, volume = {3}, number = {2}, pages = {179-189}, pmid = {24318416}, issn = {2193-8210}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: OnabotulinumtoxinA (ONA; Botox, Allergan, Irvine, CA) was discovered for cosmetic use in the mid-1980s for which it was FDA approved in April 2002. AbobotulinumtoxinA (ABO; Dysport, Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc, Montreal, Quebec) was FDA approved in April 2009 for therapeutic and esthetic uses. The most recent studies make a comparison between the two formulations; however, information is still lacking in comparison studies. In this study, we compare efficacy and safety of a single treatment of two preparations of botulinum toxin A in patients with moderate to severe rhytids in the glabellar and crow's feet areas.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 85 patients with moderate to severe wrinkles in either the glabellar or crow's feet area, or both, were given a single injection on day 0, with ABO and ONA injected on opposite sides of the face. Follow-up assessments were done at 2&#xa0;weeks, 1&#xa0;month, 3&#xa0;months, 4&#xa0;months, and 5&#xa0;months. The study end points were onset of action, change in degree of wrinkles, patient satisfaction, duration of effect, and adverse effects.<br><br>RESULTS: Results of onset of improvement with ABO vs. ONA in the glabellar and crow's feet regions show higher percentage of patients with earlier onset improvement with ABO. Evaluator assessment showed ABO lasted longer after 3&#xa0;months in a significant number of patients in both areas, 83% with ABO vs. 48% with ONA at 4&#xa0;months in the glabellar area, and 65% with ABO vs. 47% with ONA at 4&#xa0;months in the crow's feet area.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Time to improvement showed earlier onset and longer duration of improvement in a higher percentage of individuals with ABO when compared with ONA. ABO provides a safe and effective alternative in a dose ratio of 2.5:1 and 3:1 in the glabellar and crow's feet area, respectively.}, }
@article {pmid24309275, year = {2013}, author = {Jozet-Alves, C and Bertin, M and Clayton, NS}, title = {Evidence of episodic-like memory in cuttlefish.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {23}, number = {23}, pages = {R1033-5}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2013.10.021}, pmid = {24309275}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; *Feeding Behavior ; Learning ; *Memory, Episodic ; Mental Recall ; Sepia/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The recollection of past experiences allows us to recall what happened during a particular event, and where and when it occurred [1]. Since the first study on episodic-like memory in scrub-jays [2], there has been widespread acceptance of the idea that tests in animals should integrate the 'what', 'where' and 'when' components of a unique event that occurred in the past [3,4]. This is referred to as episodic-like memory rather than episodic memory per se, in acknowledgement of the lack of evidence for, or against, the phenomenological aspects that accompany episodic recollection in humans. So far, evidence for episodic-like memory has only been found in some birds and mammals. We show here that cuttlefish, cephalopod mollusks, keep track of what they have eaten, and where and how long ago they ate, in order to match their foraging behavior with the time of replenishing of different foods. Foraging in cuttlefish fulfils the criteria of 'what', 'where' and 'when' of unique events and thus provides behavioral evidence of episodic-like memory in an invertebrate.}, }
@article {pmid24301236, year = {2013}, author = {Hexsel, D and Brum, C and Porto, MD and Soirefmann, M and Siega, C and Schilling-Souza, J and Rodrigues, TC}, title = {Full-face injections of variable total doses of abobotulinum toxin type A: A randomized, phase IV clinical trial of safety and efficacy.}, journal = {Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD}, volume = {12}, number = {12}, pages = {1356-1362}, pmid = {24301236}, issn = {1545-9616}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Face ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Patient Satisfaction ; Prospective Studies ; *Quality of Life ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) has been used for almost 20 years in cosmetic dermatology to reduce dynamic wrinkles on single or multiple facial areas.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of full-face treatments with various total doses of abobotulinum toxin A (ABO).<br><br>METHODS: A total of 90 participants were enrolled. Subjects had at least two indications for BoNT-A treatments on each third of the face (upper, middle and lower). They were randomized into 3 groups, with pre-defined total dose range of ABO, varying from 120 to 250 U.<br><br>RESULTS: Most of the subjects were women (96.5%). The statistically significant improvement from baseline lasted for more than 24 weeks for glabellar lines, and more than 16 weeks for forehead wrinkles and crow's feet, all P<0.001, with no differences between groups. The most frequent adverse event (excessive perioral weakness) was related to high dose in the perioral area.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study to compare safety and efficacy of different doses of ABO administered to the entire face simultaneously. As long as the recommended doses are used, concomitant injections of ABO are safe and efficient, with no increase in adverse events.}, }
@article {pmid24300668, year = {2013}, author = {Fischer, JW and Nichols, TA and Phillips, GE and VerCauteren, KC}, title = {Procedures for identifying infectious prions after passage through the digestive system of an avian species.}, journal = {Journal of visualized experiments : JoVE}, volume = {}, number = {81}, pages = {e50853}, pmid = {24300668}, issn = {1940-087X}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*metabolism ; Gastrointestinal Tract/*metabolism ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Prion Diseases/*metabolism/*transmission ; Prions/*analysis/metabolism/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {Infectious prion (PrP(Res)) material is likely the cause of fatal, neurodegenerative transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) diseases(1). Transmission of TSE diseases, such as chronic wasting disease (CWD), is presumed to be from animal to animal(2,3) as well as from environmental sources(4-6). Scavengers and carnivores have potential to translocate PrP(Res) material through consumption and excretion of CWD-contaminated carrion. Recent work has documented passage of PrP(Res) material through the digestive system of American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos), a common North American scavenger(7). We describe procedures used to document passage of PrP(Res) material through American crows. Crows were gavaged with RML-strain mouse-adapted scrapie and their feces were collected 4 hr post gavage. Crow feces were then pooled and injected intraperitoneally into C57BL/6 mice. Mice were monitored daily until they expressed clinical signs of mouse scrapie and were thereafter euthanized. Asymptomatic mice were monitored until 365 days post inoculation. Western blot analysis was conducted to confirm disease status. Results revealed that prions remain infectious after traveling through the digestive system of crows and are present in the feces, causing disease in test mice.}, }
@article {pmid24291503, year = {2014}, author = {Zhu, B and Chen, C and Xue, G and Moyzis, RK and Dong, Q and Chen, C and Li, J and He, Q and Lei, X and Wang, Y and Lin, C}, title = {The SEMA5A gene is associated with hippocampal volume, and their interaction is associated with performance on Raven's Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {88}, number = {}, pages = {181-187}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroimage.2013.11.035}, pmid = {24291503}, issn = {1095-9572}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Female ; Hippocampus/*anatomy &amp; histology/diagnostic imaging ; Humans ; Intelligence/genetics/*physiology ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Membrane Proteins/*genetics ; Nerve Tissue Proteins/*genetics ; Semaphorins ; Thinking/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The Allen Brain Atlas shows that the semaphorin 5A (SEMA5A) gene, which encodes an important protein for neurogenesis and neuronal apoptosis, is predominantly expressed in the human hippocampus. Structural and functional neuroimaging studies have further shown that the hippocampus plays an important role in the performance on Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM), a measure of reasoning ability and general fluid intelligence. Thus far, however, no study has examined the relationships between the SEMA5A gene polymorphism, hippocampal volume, and RPM performance. The current study collected both structural MRI, genetic, and behavioral data in 329 healthy Chinese adults, and examined associations between SEMA5A variants, hippocampal volume, and performance on RAPM (the advanced form of RPM). After controlling for intracranial volume (ICV), sex, and age, SEMA5A genetic polymorphism at the SNP rs42352 had the strongest association with hippocampal volume (p=0.00000552 and 0.000103 for right and left hippocampal volumes, respectively), with TT homozygotes having higher hippocampal volume than the other genotypes. Furthermore, there was a high correlation between right hippocampal volume and RAPM performance (r=0.42, p=0.0000509) for SEMA5A rs42352 TT homozygotes. This study provides the first evidence for the involvement of the SEMA5A gene in hippocampal structure and their interaction on RAPM performance. Future studies of the hippocampus-RPM associations should consider genetic factors as potential moderators.}, }
@article {pmid24289166, year = {2013}, author = {Amiet, C and Gourfinkel-An, I and Laurent, C and Bodeau, N and Génin, B and Leguern, E and Tordjman, S and Cohen, D}, title = {Does epilepsy in multiplex autism pedigrees define a different subgroup in terms of clinical characteristics and genetic risk?.}, journal = {Molecular autism}, volume = {4}, number = {1}, pages = {47}, pmid = {24289166}, issn = {2040-2392}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and epilepsy frequently occur together. Prevalence rates are variable, and have been attributed to age, gender, comorbidity, subtype of pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) and risk factors. Recent studies have suggested disparate clinical and genetic settings depending on simplex or multiplex autism. The aim of this study was to assess: 1) the prevalence of epilepsy in multiplex autism and its association with genetic and non-genetic risk factors of major effect, intellectual disability and gender; and 2) whether autism and epilepsy cosegregate within multiplex autism families.<br><br>METHODS: We extracted from the Autism Genetic Resource Exchange (AGRE) database (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;3,818 children from 1,264 families) all families with relevant medical data (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;664 children from 290 families). The sample included 478 children with ASD and 186 siblings without ASD. We analyzed the following variables: seizures, genetic and non-genetic risk factors, gender, and cognitive functioning as assessed by Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) and Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (VABS).<br><br>RESULTS: The prevalence of epilepsy was 12.8% in cases with ASD and 2.2% in siblings without ASD (P <10-5). With each RCPM or VABS measure, the risk of epilepsy in multiplex autism was significantly associated with intellectual disability, but not with gender. Identified risk factors (genetic or non-genetic) of autism tended to be significantly associated with epilepsy (P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.052). When children with prematurity, pre- or perinatal insult, or cerebral palsy were excluded, a genetic risk factor was reported for 6/59 (10.2%) of children with epilepsy and 12/395 (3.0%) of children without epilepsy (P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.002). Finally, using a permutation test, there was significant evidence that the epilepsy phenotype co-segregated within families (P <10-4).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Epilepsy in multiplex autism may define a different subgroup in terms of clinical characteristics and genetic risk.}, }
@article {pmid24285080, year = {2013}, author = {Veit, L and Nieder, A}, title = {Abstract rule neurons in the endbrain support intelligent behaviour in corvid songbirds.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {2878}, doi = {10.1038/ncomms3878}, pmid = {24285080}, issn = {2041-1723}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Biological Evolution ; Brain/anatomy &amp; histology/*cytology/physiology ; Cognition ; *Intelligence ; Neurons/*physiology ; Songbirds/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Despite the lack of a layered neocortex and fundamental differences in endbrain organization in birds compared with mammals, intelligent species evolved from both vertebrate classes. Among birds, corvids show exceptional cognitive flexibility. Here we explore the neuronal foundation of corvid cognition by recording single-unit activity from an association area known as the nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL) while carrion crows make flexible rule-guided decisions, a hallmark of executive control functions. The most prevalent activity in NCL represents the behavioural rules, while abstracting over sample images and sensory modalities of the rule cues. Rule coding is weaker in error trials, thus predicting the crows' behavioural decisions. This suggests that the abstraction of general principles may be an important function of the NCL, mirroring the function of primate prefrontal cortex. These findings emphasize that intelligence in vertebrates does not necessarily rely on a neocortex but can be realized in endbrain circuitries that developed independently via convergent evolution.}, }
@article {pmid24283140, year = {2013}, author = {Kriz, P and Kaevska, M and Bartejsova, I and Pavlik, I}, title = {Mycobacterium avium subsp. avium found in raptors exposed to infected domestic fowl.}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {57}, number = {3}, pages = {688-692}, doi = {10.1637/10446-110612-Case.1}, pmid = {24283140}, issn = {0005-2086}, mesh = {Animals ; Avian Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; *Chickens ; Crows ; Czech Republic/epidemiology ; *Eagles ; Feces/microbiology ; Female ; Intestines/microbiology ; Liver/microbiology ; Mycobacterium avium/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification/metabolism ; Poultry Diseases/epidemiology/microbiology/pathology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics/metabolism ; Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Spleen/microbiology ; *Strigiformes ; Tuberculosis, Avian/epidemiology/*microbiology/pathology ; }, abstract = {We report a case of a falcon breeding facility, where raptors (both diurnal and nocturnal) were raised in contact with domestic fowl (Gallus gallus f. domesticus) infected by Mycobacterium avium subsp. avium. Fecal and environmental samples from 20 raptors and four common ravens (Corvus corax) were collected. Mycobacterium a. avium DNA was detected in feces of four raptors (bald eagle [Haliaeetus leucocephalus], eagle owl [Bubo bubo], barn owl [Tyto alba], and little owl [Athene noctua]) using triplex quantitative real-time PCR. As both the flock of domestic fowl and one of the infected raptors had the same origin (zoological collection), they might have had a common source of colonization/infection. However, the detection of M. a. avium in feces of three other raptors may point at transmission of the agent between the birds in the facility. Contact of raptors with domestic fowl infected by M. a. avium may pose a risk for transmission of the infection for them; however, raptors from the falcon breeding facility seemed to be relatively resistant to the infection.}, }
@article {pmid24277268, year = {2014}, author = {Radnic, B and Atanasijevic, T and Popovic, V and Mihailovic, Z}, title = {"Crow's feet" as an indication of a vital reaction in a gunshot victim.}, journal = {Forensic science, medicine, and pathology}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {259-261}, pmid = {24277268}, issn = {1556-2891}, mesh = {Adult ; Cheek ; Eyebrows ; Facial Injuries/*pathology ; Female ; Homicide ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Soot ; Suicide ; Wounds, Gunshot/*pathology ; }, }
@article {pmid24273503, year = {2013}, author = {Benson, TL and Park, S}, title = {Exceptional visuospatial imagery in schizophrenia; implications for madness and creativity.}, journal = {Frontiers in human neuroscience}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {756}, pmid = {24273503}, issn = {1662-5161}, support = {P30 HD015052/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH073028/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Biographical and historical accounts suggest a link between scientific creativity and schizophrenia. Longitudinal studies of gifted children indicate that visuospatial imagery plays a pivotal role in exceptional achievements in science and mathematics. We asked whether visuospatial imagery is enhanced in individuals with schizophrenia (SZ). We compared SZ and matched healthy controls (HC) on five visuospatial tasks tapping parietal and frontoparietal functions. Two aspects of visuospatial transformation, spatial location and mental imagery manipulation were examined with Paper Folding Test (PFT) and jigsaw puzzle task (JPT), respectively. Visuospatial intelligence was assessed with Ravens Progressive Matrices, which is associated with frontoparietal network activity. Hemispatial inattention implicating parietal function was assessed with line bisection (LB) task. Mediated by prefrontal cortex, spatial delayed response task (DRT) was used to index working memory maintenance, which was impaired in SZ compared to HC. In contrast, SZ showed intact visuospatial intelligence and transformation of location. Further, SZ performed significantly better than HC on JPT indicating enhanced mental imagery manipulation. Spatial working memory (SWM) maintenance and mental imagery manipulation were strongly associated in HC but dissociated in SZ. Thus, we observed enhanced mental imagery manipulation in SZ but the dissociation of mental imagery from working memory suggests a disrupted frontoparietal network. Finally, while HC showed the expected leftward pseudoneglect, SZ showed increased rightward LB bias implicating left hemispatial inattention and impaired right parietal control of spatial attention. The current results chart a unique profile of impaired, spared and enhanced parietal-mediated visuospatial functions implicating parietal abnormalities as a biobehavioral marker for SZ. We discuss these results in relation to creative cognition.}, }
@article {pmid24268321, year = {2014}, author = {Stolk, A and Noordzij, ML and Volman, I and Verhagen, L and Overeem, S and van Elswijk, G and Bloem, B and Hagoort, P and Toni, I}, title = {Understanding communicative actions: a repetitive TMS study.}, journal = {Cortex; a journal devoted to the study of the nervous system and behavior}, volume = {51}, number = {}, pages = {25-34}, doi = {10.1016/j.cortex.2013.10.005}, pmid = {24268321}, issn = {1973-8102}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Brain/*physiology ; Brain Mapping ; *Communication ; Female ; Functional Laterality/physiology ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Task Performance and Analysis ; *Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Despite the ambiguity inherent in human communication, people are remarkably efficient in establishing mutual understanding. Studying how people communicate in novel settings provides a window into the mechanisms supporting the human competence to rapidly generate and understand novel shared symbols, a fundamental property of human communication. Previous work indicates that the right posterior superior temporal sulcus (pSTS) is involved when people understand the intended meaning of novel communicative actions. Here, we set out to test whether normal functioning of this cerebral structure is required for understanding novel communicative actions using inhibitory low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). A factorial experimental design contrasted two tightly matched stimulation sites (right pSTS vs left MT+, i.e., a contiguous homotopic task-relevant region) and tasks (a communicative task vs a visual tracking task that used the same sequences of stimuli). Overall task performance was not affected by rTMS, whereas changes in task performance over time were disrupted according to TMS site and task combinations. Namely, rTMS over pSTS led to a diminished ability to improve action understanding on the basis of recent communicative history, while rTMS over MT+ perturbed improvement in visual tracking over trials. These findings qualify the contributions of the right pSTS to human communicative abilities, showing that this region might be necessary for incorporating previous knowledge, accumulated during interactions with a communicative partner, to constrain the inferential process that leads to action understanding.}, }
@article {pmid24267416, year = {2014}, author = {Luebberding, S and Krueger, N and Kerscher, M}, title = {Quantification of age-related facial wrinkles in men and women using a three-dimensional fringe projection method and validated assessment scales.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {40}, number = {1}, pages = {22-32}, doi = {10.1111/dsu.12377}, pmid = {24267416}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Female ; Humans ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional/*methods ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Perimenopause/physiology ; Sex Factors ; *Skin Aging/physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Whereas the molecular mechanisms of skin aging are well understood, little information is available concerning the clinical onset and lifetime development of facial wrinkles.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To perform the first systematic evaluation of the lifetime development of facial wrinkles and sex-specific differences using three-dimensional (3D) imaging and clinical rating.<br><br>METHODS: 200 men and women aged 20 to 70 were selected. Wrinkle severity of periorbital, glabellar, and forehead lines was evaluated using 3D imaging and validated assessment scales.<br><br>RESULTS: Wrinkle severity was greater at all assessed locations with older age. In men, wrinkles manifested earlier and were more severe than in women. In women, periorbital lines were the first visible wrinkles, in contrast to the forehead lines in men. In both sexes, glabellar lines did not clinically manifest before the age of 40.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results of the present study confirm a progressive increase of crow's feet and forehead and glabellar lines in men and women. Although the development of facial wrinkles happens earlier and is more severe in men, perimenopause seems to particularly affect development in women. Clinical ratings and 3D measurements are suitable methods to assess facial wrinkle severity in men and women.}, }
@article {pmid24265512, year = {2013}, author = {Doyle, JT and Redsteer, MH and Eggers, MJ}, title = {"Exploring Effects of Climate Change on Northern Plains American Indian Health".}, journal = {Climatic change}, volume = {120}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {24265512}, issn = {0165-0009}, support = {P20 GM103474/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; P20 MD002317/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; P20 RR016455/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {American Indians have unique vulnerabilities to the impacts of climate change because of the links among ecosystems, cultural practices, and public health, but also as a result of limited resources available to address infrastructure needs. On the Crow Reservation in south-central Montana, a Northern Plains American Indian Reservation, there are community concerns about the consequences of climate change impacts for community health and local ecosystems. Observations made by Tribal Elders about decreasing annual snowfall and milder winter temperatures over the 20[th] century initiated an investigation of local climate and hydrologic data by the Tribal College. The resulting analysis of meteorological data confirmed the decline in annual snowfall and an increase in frost free days. In addition, the data show a shift in precipitation from winter to early spring and a significant increase in days exceeding 90° F (32° C). Streamflow data show a long-term trend of declining discharge. Elders noted that the changes are affecting fish distribution within local streams and plant species which provide subsistence foods. Concerns about warmer summer temperatures also include heat exposure during outdoor ceremonies that involve days of fasting without food or water. Additional community concerns about the effects of climate change include increasing flood frequency and fire severity, as well as declining water quality. The authors call for local research to understand and document current effects and project future impacts as a basis for planning adaptive strategies.}, }
@article {pmid24247140, year = {2014}, author = {Halová, D and Papousek, I and Jamborova, I and Masarikova, M and Cizek, A and Janecko, N and Oravcova, V and Zurek, L and Clark, AB and Townsend, A and Ellis, JC and Literak, I}, title = {Plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance genes in Enterobacteriaceae from American crows: high prevalence of bacteria with variable qnrB genes.}, journal = {Antimicrobial agents and chemotherapy}, volume = {58}, number = {2}, pages = {1257-1258}, pmid = {24247140}, issn = {1098-6596}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Base Sequence ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*microbiology ; Ciprofloxacin/pharmacology ; Crows/*microbiology ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics ; Enterobacteriaceae/*genetics ; Enterobacteriaceae Infections/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; Gene Frequency ; *Genes, Bacterial ; Molecular Sequence Data ; *Plasmids ; United States/epidemiology ; }, }
@article {pmid24239503, year = {2014}, author = {Pfuhl, G and Gattermayr, M and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Will food-handling time influence agonistic behaviour in sub-adult common ravens (Corvus corax)?.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {103}, number = {}, pages = {67-74}, pmid = {24239503}, issn = {1872-8308}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Agonistic Behavior/*physiology ; Animals ; Conditioning, Operant/physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; *Food Handling ; Interpersonal Relations ; Male ; Motivation ; Problem Solving/physiology ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Discovering a food source may invoke either competition or cooperation, depending on many factors such as divisibility and accessibility. We experimentally investigated the influence of effort to procure food on the tolerance towards others during feeding. Nine sub-adult captive ravens were tested in different foraging contexts that differed in foraging effort, namely three string-pulling conditions and two without pulling requirement. We expected that the effort to gain access to food would positively affect the tolerance towards others at feeding. As predicted, we found fewer agonistic interactions, fewer displacements of subordinates from food and prolonged feeding bouts in the three string-pulling conditions compared to the two conditions when no pulling was involved. Further, in the string pulling tasks interactions occurred mostly on the perch before pulling and only rarely was pulling interrupted by agonistic interactions. The rate of interactions did not change over trials. Our data suggests that perceived effort influences social behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid24238393, year = {2013}, author = {Nugnes, R and Zito, E and Mozzillo, E and Camarca, ME and Riccio, MP and Terrone, G and Melis, D and Bravaccio, C and Franzese, A}, title = {Good cognitive performances in a child with Prader-Willi syndrome.}, journal = {Italian journal of pediatrics}, volume = {39}, number = {}, pages = {74}, pmid = {24238393}, issn = {1824-7288}, mesh = {Child ; *Child Behavior ; Child Development ; Cognition/*physiology ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Genetics, Behavioral ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Prader-Willi Syndrome/*diagnosis/genetics/*psychology ; Reference Values ; Risk Assessment ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {We report the case of a child affected by Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) with good cognitive performances and without relevant behavioral abnormalities.The diagnosis of PWS, suspected on the basis of clinical features and past history, was confirmed by DNA methylation analysis. Additional genetic testing revealed a maternal uniparental disomy. Intellectual profile was analyzed by WISC-III and Raven's Progressive Matrices CPM, while the behavior was evaluated by K-SADS-PL and Child Behavior Checklist/4-18 to the parents.WISC-III test showed a Total Intelligence Quotient (T-IQ = 79) at the border level for age. The Verbal Intelligence Quotient (V-IQ) showed a lower score than the Performance Intelligence Quotient (P-IQ) (78 and 85, respectively). Raven's Matrices CPM showed an intelligence level at 75-90° percentile for age. Concerning behavioral evaluation, a difficulty in impulse control was observed, with persistent but controllable search for food, without a clear psychopathological meaning. Also according to K-SADS-PL no areas of psychopathological dimensions were detected. In conclusion, in presence of consisting clinical features of PWS and high diagnostic suspicion, the diagnosis of PWS should be considered even in presence of a borderline IQ and in absence of psychopathological abnormalities.}, }
@article {pmid24236016, year = {2013}, author = {Tong, F and Fu, T}, title = {Meta-analysis of fluid intelligence tests of children from the Chinese mainland with learning difficulties.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {8}, number = {11}, pages = {e78311}, pmid = {24236016}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; China ; Humans ; Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; Learning Disabilities/*diagnosis/psychology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the differences in fluid intelligence tests between normal children and children with learning difficulties in China.<br><br>METHOD: PubMed, MD Consult, and other Chinese Journal Database were searched from their establishment to November 2012. After finding comparative studies of Raven measurements of normal children and children with learning difficulties, full Intelligent Quotation (FIQ) values and the original values of the sub-measurement were extracted. The corresponding effect model was selected based on the results of heterogeneity and parallel sub-group analysis was performed.<br><br>RESULTS: Twelve documents were included in the meta-analysis, and the studies were all performed in mainland of China. Among these, two studies were performed at child health clinics, the other ten sites were schools and control children were schoolmates or classmates. FIQ was evaluated using a random effects model. WMD was -13.18 (95% CI: -16.50- -9.85). Children with learning difficulties showed significantly lower FIQ scores than controls (P<0.00001); Type of learning difficulty and gender differences were evaluated using a fixed-effects model (I&#xb2;&#x200a;=&#x200a;0%). The sites and purposes of the studies evaluated here were taken into account, but the reasons of heterogeneity could not be eliminated; The sum IQ of all the subgroups showed considerable heterogeneity (I&#xb2;&#x200a;=&#x200a;76.5%). The sub-measurement score of document A showed moderate heterogeneity among all documents, and AB, B, and E showed considerable heterogeneity, which was used in a random effect model. Individuals with learning difficulties showed heterogeneity as well. There was a moderate delay in the first three items (-0.5 to -0.9), and a much more pronounced delay in the latter three items (-1.4 to -1.6).<br><br>CONCLUSION: In the Chinese mainland, the level of fluid intelligence of children with learning difficulties was lower than that of normal children. Delayed development in sub-items of C, D, and E was more obvious.}, }
@article {pmid24230988, year = {2014}, author = {López-Meraz, ML and Medel-Matus, JS and Morgado-Valle, C and Beltrán-Parrazal, L and Pérez-Estudillo, C and Manzo, J}, title = {Effect of lithium-pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus on ultrasonic vocalizations in the infant rat pup.}, journal = {Epilepsy &amp; behavior : E&amp;B}, volume = {31}, number = {}, pages = {263-266}, doi = {10.1016/j.yebeh.2013.10.006}, pmid = {24230988}, issn = {1525-5069}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Animals, Newborn ; Chi-Square Distribution ; Convulsants/*toxicity ; Disease Models, Animal ; Female ; Lithium/*toxicity ; Male ; Maternal Deprivation ; Pilocarpine/*toxicity ; Rats ; Rats, Wistar ; Status Epilepticus/*chemically induced/*physiopathology ; Vocalization, Animal/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {Evidence shows that febrile convulsions induced in rat pups increase ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs); however, the effect of status epilepticus (SE) induced in developing rats on USVs has not been fully investigated. The goal of this study was to analyze USVs following lithium-pilocarpine-induced SE in fourteen-day-old (P14) rat pups. The rat pups were given 3-mEq/kg lithium chloride i.p. on the day before the induction of SE, which was carried out at P14 by subcutaneous injection of 100-mg/kg pilocarpine hydrochloride; control animals were given an equal volume of lithium chloride and saline on P13 and P14, respectively. Ultrasonic vocalizations were monitored at P15, P16, and P21 with a Mini 3 Bat Detector Ultra Sound Advice (15kHz-160kHz) set at 40±4kHz and digitally recorded in WAV format using the Audacity 1.3 beta software. A clear box (60×40×30cm) split down the middle with a holed wall was used; each pup was placed alone in one compartment, whereas its dam was placed on the other cage side at room temperature. Vocalizations were recorded over a 5-minute period, converted to sonograms and spectrograms, and analyzed using the Raven software. Parameters evaluated were as follows: USV frequency, latency to the first USV, and mean USV duration. There was a significant decrease in the latency (35.5±6.9s) and duration (50.8±8.6s) of USVs after SE compared with the control group (81.9±10.8s and 78.1±9.9s, respectively). Status epilepticus affected male and female rats differentially.}, }
@article {pmid24225460, year = {2014}, author = {Polnaszek, TJ and Stephens, DW}, title = {Why not lie? Costs enforce honesty in an experimental signalling game.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {281}, number = {1774}, pages = {20132457}, pmid = {24225460}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {*Animal Communication ; Animals ; Biological Evolution ; *Deception ; *Game Theory ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Reward ; }, abstract = {Communication depends on reliability. Yet, the existence of stable honest signalling presents an evolutionary puzzle. Why should animals signal honestly in the face of a conflict of interest? While students of animal signalling have offered several theoretical answers to this puzzle, the most widely studied model, commonly called the 'handicap principle', postulates that the costs of signals stabilize honesty. This model is the motivating force behind an enormous research enterprise that explores signal costs--whether they are physiological, immunological, neural, developmental or caloric. While there can be no question that many signals are costly, we lack definitive experimental evidence demonstrating that costs stabilize honesty. This study presents a laboratory signalling game using blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) that provides, to our knowledge, the first experimental evidence showing honesty persists when costs are high and disappears when costs are low.}, }
@article {pmid24223982, year = {2013}, author = {Dohms, KM and Burg, TM}, title = {Molecular markers reveal limited population genetic structure in a North American corvid, Clark's nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana).}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {8}, number = {11}, pages = {e79621}, pmid = {24223982}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; Genetic Markers/*genetics ; Genetics, Population ; Ice ; Microsatellite Repeats/genetics ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; }, abstract = {The genetic impact of barriers and Pleistocene glaciations on high latitude resident species has not been widely investigated. The Clark's nutcracker is an endemic North American corvid closely associated with Pinus-dominated forests. The nutcracker's encompasses known barriers to dispersal for other species, and glaciated and unglaciated areas. Clark's nutcrackers also irruptively disperse long distances in search of pine seed crops, creating the potential for gene flow among populations. Using the highly variable mitochondrial DNA control region, seven microsatellite loci, and species distribution modeling, we examined the effects of glaciations and dispersal barriers on population genetic patterns and population structure of nutcrackers. We sequenced 900 bp of mitochondrial control region for 169 individuals from 15 populations and analysed seven polymorphic microsatellite loci for 13 populations across the Clark's nutcracker range. We used species distribution modeling and a range of phylogeographic analyses to examine evolutionary history. Clark's nutcracker populations are not highly differentiated throughout their range, suggesting high levels of gene flow among populations, though we did find some evidence of isolation by distance and peripheral isolation. Our analyses suggested expansion from a single refugium after the last glacial maximum, but patterns of genetic diversity and paleodistribution modeling of suitable habitat were inconclusive as to the location of this refugium. Potential barriers to dispersal (e.g. mountain ranges) do not appear to restrict gene flow in Clark's nutcracker, and postglacial expansion likely occurred quickly from a single refugium located south of the ice sheets.}, }
@article {pmid24217422, year = {2013}, author = {Takesue, H and Matsuda, N and Kuramochi, E and Munro, WJ and Notomi, M}, title = {An on-chip coupled resonator optical waveguide single-photon buffer.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {2725}, pmid = {24217422}, issn = {2041-1723}, abstract = {Integrated quantum optical circuits are now seen as one of the most promising approaches with which to realize single-photon quantum information processing. Many of the core elements for such circuits have been realized, including sources, gates and detectors. However, a significant missing function necessary for photonic quantum information processing on-chip is a buffer, where single photons are stored for a short period of time to facilitate circuit synchronization. Here we report an on-chip single-photon buffer based on coupled resonator optical waveguides (CROW) consisting of 400 high-Q photonic crystal line-defect nanocavities. By using the CROW, a pulsed single photon is successfully buffered for 150 ps with 50-ps tunability while maintaining its non-classical properties. Furthermore, we show that our buffer preserves entanglement by storing and retrieving one photon from a time-bin entangled state. This is a significant step towards an all-optical integrated quantum information processor.}, }
@article {pmid24204765, year = {2013}, author = {Krieger, N and Waterman, PD and Kosheleva, A and Chen, JT and Smith, KW and Carney, DR and Bennett, GG and Williams, DR and Thornhill, G and Freeman, ER}, title = {Racial discrimination &amp; cardiovascular disease risk: my body my story study of 1005 US-born black and white community health center participants (US).}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {8}, number = {10}, pages = {e77174}, pmid = {24204765}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {R01 AG027122/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; 1 R01 AG027122-01/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01AG27122-3S1/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; *Black People ; Boston/epidemiology ; Cardiovascular Diseases/epidemiology/ethnology/*psychology ; *Community Health Centers ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Multivariate Analysis ; Prejudice ; Racism/*psychology ; Risk Factors ; Socioeconomic Factors ; *White People ; Black or African American ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To date, limited and inconsistent evidence exists regarding racial discrimination and risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).<br><br>METHODS: Cross-sectional observational study of 1005 US-born non-Hispanic black (n = 504) and white (n = 501) participants age 35-64 randomly selected from community health centers in Boston, MA (2008-2010; 82.4% response rate), using 3 racial discrimination measures: explicit self-report; implicit association test (IAT, a time reaction test for self and group as target vs. perpetrator of discrimination); and structural (Jim Crow status of state of birth, i.e. legal racial discrimination prior 1964).<br><br>RESULTS: Black and white participants both had adverse cardiovascular and socioeconomic profiles, with black participants most highly exposed to racial discrimination. Positive crude associations among black participants occurred for Jim Crow birthplace and hypertension (odds ratio (OR) 1.92, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.28, 2.89) and for explicit self-report and the Framingham 10 year CVD risk score (beta = 0.04; 95% CI 0.01, 0.07); among white participants, only negative crude associations existed (for IAT for self, for lower systolic blood pressure (SBP; beta = -4.86; 95% CI -9.08, -0.64) and lower Framingham CVD score (beta = -0.36, 95% CI -0.63, -0.08)). All of these associations were attenuated and all but the white IAT-Framingham risk score association were rendered null in analyses that controlled for lifetime socioeconomic position and additional covariates. Controlling for racial discrimination, socioeconomic position, and other covariates did not attenuate the crude black excess risk for SBP and hypertension and left unaffected the null excess risk for the Framingham CVD score.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Despite worse exposures among the black participants, racial discrimination and socioeconomic position were not associated, in multivariable analyses, with risk of CVD. We interpret results in relation to constrained variability of exposures and outcomes and discuss implications for valid research on social determinants of health.}, }
@article {pmid24188622, year = {2014}, author = {Wei, CA and Kamil, AC and Bond, AB}, title = {Direct and relational representation during transitive list linking in pinyon jays (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus).}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {128}, number = {1}, pages = {1-10}, doi = {10.1037/a0034627}, pmid = {24188622}, issn = {1939-2087}, support = {R01-MH069893/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Conditioning, Operant/*physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Random Allocation ; }, abstract = {The authors used the list-linking procedure (Treichler &amp; Van Tilburg, 1996) to explore the processes by which animals assemble cognitive structures from fragmentary and often contradictory data. Pinyon jays (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) were trained to a high level of accuracy on 2 implicit transitive lists, A > B > C > D > E and 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5. They were then given linkage training on E > 1, the single pair that linked the 2 lists into a composite, 10-item hierarchy. Following linkage training, the birds were tested on nonadjacent probe pairs drawn both from within (B-D and 2-4) and between (D-1, E-2, B-2, C-3) each original list. Linkage training resulted in a significant transitory disruption in performance, and the adjustment to the resulting implicit hierarchy was far from instantaneous. Detailed analysis of the course of the disruption and its subsequent recovery provided important insights into the roles of direct and relational encoding in implicit hierarchies.}, }
@article {pmid24187609, year = {2013}, author = {Lilienthal, L and Tamez, E and Myerson, J and Hale, S}, title = {Predicting performance on the Raven's Matrices: The roles of associative learning and retrieval efficiency.}, journal = {Journal of cognitive psychology (Hove, England)}, volume = {25}, number = {6}, pages = {}, pmid = {24187609}, issn = {2044-5911}, support = {T32 AG000030/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Previous studies have shown that performance on Williams and Pearlberg's (2006) complex associative learning task is a good predictor of fluid intelligence. This task is similar in structure to that used in studying the fan effect (Anderson, 1974), as both tasks involve forming multiple associations and require retrieval in the face of interference. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relations among complex associative learning, working memory, and fluid intelligence. Specifically, we asked whether retrieval efficiency, as measured by the fan effect, could account for the relation between complex associative learning and performance on Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices. Consistent with previous findings, complex associative learning predicted Raven's performance, but the fan effect did not account for this relation. Notably, the learning phase of the fan effect task was significantly correlated with both complex associative learning and Raven's performance, providing further support for the importance of learning as a predictor of fluid intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid24176657, year = {2013}, author = {Petrović, T and Blazquez, AB and Lupulović, D and Lazić, G and Escribano-Romero, E and Fabijan, D and Kapetanov, M and Lazić, S and Saiz, J}, title = {Monitoring West Nile virus (WNV) infection in wild birds in Serbia during 2012: first isolation and characterisation of WNV strains from Serbia.}, journal = {Euro surveillance : bulletin Europeen sur les maladies transmissibles = European communicable disease bulletin}, volume = {18}, number = {44}, pages = {}, doi = {10.2807/1560-7917.es2013.18.44.20622}, pmid = {24176657}, issn = {1560-7917}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/immunology/virology ; Birds/immunology/*virology ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay ; Humans ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Neutralization Tests ; Phylogeny ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Serbia/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/classification/*genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV), a neurovirulent mosquito-transmissible zoonotic virus, has caused recent outbreaks in Europe, including Serbia from August until October 2012. Although humans can be infected, birds are the main natural WNV reservoir. To assess WNV circulation in northern Serbia, 133 wild birds were investigated. These comprised resident and migratory birds, collected between January and September 2012 in the Vojvodina province. The birds belonged to 45 species within 27 families. Blood sera (n=92) and pooled tissues from respective birds (n=81) were tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), plaque reduction neutralisation test (PRNT) and real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). WNV antibodies were detected in seven (8%) sera: four from Mute Swans (Cygnus olor), two from White-tailed Eagles (Haliaeetus albicillas), and one from a Common Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus). Five sera neutralised WNV but not Usutu virus. For the first time in Serbia, WNV RNA was detected by RT-qPCR in pooled tissue samples of eight respective birds. WNV RNA was also derived from an additional bird, after a serum sample resulted infective in cell culture. The total nine WNV RNA positive birds included three Northern Goshawks (Accipiter gentilis), two White-tailed Eagles, one Legged Gull (Larus michahelis), one Hooded Crow (Corvus cornix), one Bearded Parrot-bill (Panarus biramicus), and one Common Pheasant. Phylogenetic analysis of partial E region sequences showed the presence of, at least, two lineage 2 Serbian clusters closely related to those responsible for recent human and animal outbreaks in Greece, Hungary and Italy. Full genomic sequence from a goshawk isolate corroborated this data. These results confirm WNV circulation in Serbia and highlight the risk of infection for humans and horses, pointing to the need for implementing WNV surveillance programmes.}, }
@article {pmid24173526, year = {2013}, author = {Ims, RA and Henden, JA and Thingnes, AV and Killengreen, ST}, title = {Indirect food web interactions mediated by predator-rodent dynamics: relative roles of lemmings and voles.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {9}, number = {6}, pages = {20130802}, pmid = {24173526}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Animals ; Arctic Regions ; Arvicolinae/*physiology ; Birds/*physiology ; Ecosystem ; Eggs ; *Food Chain ; Nesting Behavior/physiology ; Norway ; Population Density ; Population Dynamics ; *Predatory Behavior ; Regression Analysis ; Risk ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Production cycles in birds are proposed as prime cases of indirect interactions in food webs. They are thought to be driven by predators switching from rodents to bird nests in the crash phase of rodent population cycles. Although rodent cycles are geographically widespread and found in different rodent taxa, bird production cycles appear to be most profound in the high Arctic where lemmings dominate. We hypothesized that this may be due to arctic lemmings inducing stronger predator responses than boreal voles. We tested this hypothesis by estimating predation rates in dummy bird nests during a rodent cycle in low-Arctic tundra. Here, the rodent community consists of a spatially variable mix of one lemming (Lemmus lemmus) and two vole species (Myodes rufocanus and Microtus oeconomus) with similar abundances. In consistence with our hypothesis, lemming peak abundances predicted well crash-phase nest predation rates, whereas the vole abundances had no predictive ability. Corvids were found to be the most important nest predators. Lemmings appear to be accessible to the whole predator community which makes them particularly powerful drivers of food web dynamics.}, }
@article {pmid24171826, year = {2013}, author = {Lam, YG}, title = {Re-examining the cognitive phenotype in autism: a study with young Chinese children.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {34}, number = {12}, pages = {4591-4598}, doi = {10.1016/j.ridd.2013.09.039}, pmid = {24171826}, issn = {1873-3379}, mesh = {Autistic Disorder/*physiopathology/psychology ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; China ; Cognition Disorders/*physiopathology/psychology ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Phenotype ; Theory of Mind/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Deficits consistently found in autism include an impaired "theory of mind", weak central coherence, and deficits in executive function. The current study examined whether this traditional cluster of symptoms existed in a group of Chinese-speaking children with autism. Sixteen high-functioning, non-retarded children with autism were matched to 16 typically developing (TD) children on gender, non-verbal IQ and age. Non-verbal IQ's of all participants were measured using the Raven Progressive Matrices. Each participant was tested individually on measures of "theory of mind", central coherence and executive function. Results indicated that most, but not all, participants with autism performed significantly poorer on two standard measures of first-order "theory of mind," although there was no significant difference on two other measures of that domain. As expected, they performed significantly worse on executive function tasks. However, the hypothesis of weak central coherence in autism was not substantiated. There was no evidence that these three cognitive impairments co-existed in individuals with autism. More likely, each of these deficits appears singly or in pair instead of forming a cluster.}, }
@article {pmid24160215, year = {2013}, author = {Tapia, LU and Lizana, PA and Orellana, YZ and Villagrán, FS and Arias, VF and Almagià, AF and Burrows, RA and Ivanovic, DM}, title = {Somatotype and intellectual ability (Raven Progressive Matrices Test) in Chilean school-age children.}, journal = {Nutricion hospitalaria}, volume = {28}, number = {5}, pages = {1552-1557}, doi = {10.3305/nh.2013.28.5.6735}, pmid = {24160215}, issn = {1699-5198}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Chile ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Somatotypes ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between somatotype and intellectual ability (IA) in 11-12 and 15-16 year-old students (n = 1,015) in the Chile's Metropolitan Region from a representative sample of 33 educational establishments chosen at random.<br><br>METHODS: The Heath-Carter somatotype and the IA assessed through the Raven Progressive Matrices Test were measured.<br><br>RESULTS: The endomorph was observed in 59% of the students; 28% had a mesomorph and 13% ectomorph. The IA was distributed in: 11.2% Grade I, 26.8% Grade II, 41% Grade III, 17.6% Grade IV and 3.2% Grade V. A positive and significant correlation of IA with the endomorphic component (r = 0.074, p = 0.02) was found in the total sample and only in females (r = 0.109, p = 0.02); at the same time, a positive and significant correlation with the ectomorph component was also observed (r = 0.067, p < 0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This suggests that other variables would influence more strongly the IA for which further research is needed to quantitate this multifactorial problem.}, }
@article {pmid24156206, year = {2013}, author = {Hegde, S and Rao, BH and Kakar, RC and Kakar, A}, title = {A comparison of dentifrices for clinical relief from dentin hypersensitivity using the Jay Sensitivity Sensor Probe.}, journal = {American journal of dentistry}, volume = {26 Spec No B}, number = {}, pages = {29B-36B}, pmid = {24156206}, issn = {0894-8275}, mesh = {Adult ; Air ; Arginine/therapeutic use ; Calcium Carbonate/therapeutic use ; Dentifrices/*therapeutic use ; Dentin Desensitizing Agents/*therapeutic use ; Dentin Sensitivity/diagnosis/*prevention &amp; control ; *Diagnostic Equipment ; Double-Blind Method ; Equipment Design ; Female ; Fluorides/therapeutic use ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Microcomputers ; Middle Aged ; Pain Measurement ; Phosphates/therapeutic use ; Physical Stimulation ; Touch ; Transducers, Pressure ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical relief from dentin hypersensitivity among subjects provided with a dentifrice formulated with 8% arginine, calcium carbonate and 1,000 ppm fluoride [sodium monofluorophosphate (MFP)] in comparison to those issued a commercially available dentifrice containing 1,000 ppm fluoride [as sodium monofluorophosphate (MFP)]. Clinical evaluations for hypersensitivity were performed with a novel tactile hypersensitivity measuring instrument--the Jay Sensitivity Sensor (Jay) Probe--in conjunction with evaporative triggers by air blast (Schiff scale) and Visual Analog Scores (VAS).<br><br>METHODS: Qualified adults from the Mangalore, India area who presented two teeth with dentin hypersensitivity were enrolled for this double-blind, randomized, parallel, controlled clinical trial conducted in an outpatient clinical setting. At baseline, dentin hypersensitivity was evaluated by the Jay Probe (tactile), air blast and VAS methods. Subjects were randomly issued a study dentifrice and instructed to brush their teeth for 1 minute twice daily with the provided dentifrice. Clinical evaluations for hypersensitivity were repeated after 2, 4 and 8 weeks of product use.<br><br>RESULTS: 86 subjects (35 males and 51 females) complied with the study protocol and completed the entire study. At each recall visit, both treatment groups demonstrated significant reductions in dentin hypersensitivity from their corresponding baselines (P < 0.05). Subjects assigned the 8% arginine, calcium carbonate and 1,000 ppm fluoride dentifrice demonstrated statistically significant reductions in responses to tactile stimuli, air blast, and VAS responses in comparison to those using the dentifrice containing 1,000 ppm fluoride after 2, 4, and 8 weeks, respectively.}, }
@article {pmid24156205, year = {2013}, author = {Kakar, A and Kakar, K}, title = {Measurement of dentin hypersensitivity with the Jay Sensitivity Sensor Probe and the Yeaple probe to compare relief from dentin hypersensitivity by dentifrices.}, journal = {American journal of dentistry}, volume = {26 Spec No B}, number = {}, pages = {21B-28B}, pmid = {24156205}, issn = {0894-8275}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Air ; Dentifrices/*therapeutic use ; Dentin Desensitizing Agents/*therapeutic use ; Dentin Sensitivity/diagnosis/*prevention &amp; control ; *Diagnostic Equipment ; Double-Blind Method ; Equipment Design ; Female ; Fluorides/therapeutic use ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Microcomputers ; Middle Aged ; Nitrates/therapeutic use ; Pain Measurement ; Phosphates/therapeutic use ; Physical Stimulation ; Potassium Compounds/therapeutic use ; Touch ; Transducers, Pressure ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To compare relief from dentin hypersensitivity (DH) after use of dentifrices formulated with potassium nitrate or fluoride. For the study, DH evaluations were conducted with the Jay Sensitivity Sensor Probe (Jay Probe), a novel tactile hypersensitivity instrument, in conjunction with three other DH methods, i.e. Yeaple probe (tactile), air blast, and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS).<br><br>METHODS: Adults (n = 100) who presented two teeth with DH and met study criteria were enrolled for this double-blind, randomized, parallel, controlled clinical trial conducted in an outpatient setting. DH evaluations at baseline were conducted by the tactile, air blast, and VAS methods. Subjects were randomly assigned a dentifrice formulated with 5% potassium nitrate and 1,000 ppm fluoride (as sodium monofluorophosphate) (Colgate Sensitive toothpaste; Test) or a commercially available fluoride dentifrice with 1,000 ppm fluoride as sodium monofluorophosphate (Colgate Cibaca toothpaste; Negative control). Subjects were recalled for DH evaluations after 4 and 8 weeks of product use.<br><br>RESULTS: 85 subjects completed the entire study with evaluable results. Both treatments resulted in significant reductions in DH from baseline to all recall visits. In comparison to the Negative control, subjects in the Test group demonstrated significantly greater reductions for all DH evaluations at both 4 and 8 weeks (P < 0.05). Average tactile DH scores at week 8 for the Test and Negative control groups were 36.25 and 15.24 with the Yeaple probe and 35 and 12.43 with the Jay probe. Correspondingly, subjects in the Test group demonstrated significantly greater reductions in air blast and VAS responses for DH than those in the Negative control group (P < 0.05).}, }
@article {pmid24156204, year = {2013}, author = {Kakar, A and Dibart, S and Kakar, K}, title = {Clinical assessment of a new dentifrice with 8% arginine and calcium carbonate on dentin hypersensitivity in an Indian population using a new measuring device: the Jay Sensitivity Sensor Probe.}, journal = {American journal of dentistry}, volume = {26 Spec No B}, number = {}, pages = {13B-20B}, pmid = {24156204}, issn = {0894-8275}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Air ; Arginine/*therapeutic use ; Calcium Carbonate/*therapeutic use ; Dentifrices/*therapeutic use ; Dentin Desensitizing Agents/*therapeutic use ; Dentin Sensitivity/diagnosis/*prevention &amp; control ; *Diagnostic Equipment ; Double-Blind Method ; Equipment Design ; Female ; Fluorides/therapeutic use ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; India ; Male ; Microcomputers ; Middle Aged ; Pain Measurement ; Phosphates/therapeutic use ; Physical Stimulation ; Touch ; Transducers, Pressure ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To compare a new tactile hypersensitivity testing device [Jay Sensitivity Sensor (Jay) Probe] to three currently available methods of hypersensitivity testing: tactile hypersensitivity by the Yeaple probe, air blast (Schiff's Scale), and their overall hypersensitivity in the absence of any stimuli using the visual analog scores (VAS) during a clinical trial comparing the desensitizing potential of a dentifrice containing 8% arginine, calcium carbonate, and 1,000 ppm MFP (Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief; Test) against a commercially available fluoride dentifrice (Colgate Cibaca; Negative control).<br><br>METHODS: This 8-week clinical study enrolled 100 adults with dentin hypersensitivity (DH) to evaluate the desensitizing potential of a dentifrice with 8% arginine, calcium carbonate, and 1000 ppm MFP against a commercially available fluoride dentifrice, on an Indian population. This study included a new DH testing device (Jay Probe) in addition to the current three methods of dentin hypersensitivity testing. Subjects were randomly assigned a dentifrice and were evaluated for DH after 2-week, 4-week and 8-week use of assigned dentifrice.<br><br>RESULTS: At the end of the 8-week period, the results showed a significant improvement in dentin hypersensitivity in the Test group as compared to the Negative control group. The mean tactile hypersensitivity scores at the 8-week examinations were 39.67 and 38.33 by the Yeaple and Jay Probes, respectively, for the Test group and 15.72 and 15.00 for the Negative control group. These observations were consistent with the other hypersensitivity examinations by air blast and VAS.}, }
@article {pmid24156203, year = {2013}, author = {Sowinski, JA and Kakar, A and Kakar, K}, title = {Clinical evaluation of the Jay Sensitivity Sensor Probe: a new microprocessor-controlled instrument to evaluate dentin hypersensitivity.}, journal = {American journal of dentistry}, volume = {26 Spec No B}, number = {}, pages = {5B-12B}, pmid = {24156203}, issn = {0894-8275}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Air ; Arginine/therapeutic use ; Calcium Carbonate/therapeutic use ; Cohort Studies ; Dentifrices/therapeutic use ; Dentin Desensitizing Agents/therapeutic use ; Dentin Sensitivity/*diagnosis/prevention &amp; control ; *Diagnostic Equipment/standards ; Double-Blind Method ; Equipment Design ; Female ; Fluorides/therapeutic use ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Microcomputers/standards ; Middle Aged ; Nitrates/therapeutic use ; Oral Hygiene ; Pain Measurement ; Physical Stimulation ; Potassium Compounds/therapeutic use ; Reproducibility of Results ; Touch ; Transducers, Pressure/standards ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To compare the Jay Sensitivity Sensor Probe (Jay Probe), a new microprocessor-based, pre-calibrated instrument, with well accepted methods used to evaluate sensitivity, i.e. tactile response to the Yeaple Probe, air blast (Schiff scale), and patient responses by Visual Analog Score (VAS).<br><br>METHODS: Jay Probe assessments were accomplished using several approaches. With a cohort of 12 subjects, two clinical examiners compared the repeatability of the Jay and Yeaple Probes. A second evaluation of both probes was conducted during two independent parallel design clinical studies each enrolling 100 adults with dentin hypersensitivity (DH). In each study, subjects were evaluated for DH responses after twice daily oral hygiene with a negative control fluoride dentifrice or a positive control dentifrice formulated with ingredients proven to reduce sensitivity, i.e. potassium nitrate or 8.0% arginine with calcium carbonate. Tactile evaluations by the Jay and Yeaple Probes were conducted at baseline and recall visits over the 8-week duration of each study. Also evaluated at each visit were responses to air blast and to patient reported DH assessment by VAS.<br><br>RESULTS: Low inter-examiner variability with no significant differences between replicate measurements (P > 0.05) was observed with the Jay Probe. Consistent with results from previous studies, subjects assigned dentifrices formulated with potassium nitrate or 8% arginine/calcium carbonate demonstrated improvements in Yeaple, air blast and VAS responses in comparison to those assigned the fluoride dentifrice (P < 0.05). Jay Probe responses correlated significantly with all other sensitivity measures (P < 0.05). Differences between these treatments were observed at all post-treatment evaluations using these methods.}, }
@article {pmid24156201, year = {2013}, author = {García-Godoy, F}, title = {The Jay Sensitivity Sensor Probe to evaluate tactile sensitivity.}, journal = {American journal of dentistry}, volume = {26 Spec No B}, number = {}, pages = {2B}, pmid = {24156201}, issn = {0894-8275}, mesh = {Dentin Sensitivity/*diagnosis ; *Diagnostic Equipment ; Equipment Design ; Humans ; Microcomputers ; Touch ; Transducers, Pressure ; }, }
@article {pmid24154747, year = {2013}, author = {Bly, RA and Su, D and Lendvay, TS and Friedman, D and Hannaford, B and Ferreira, M and Moe, KS}, title = {Multiportal robotic access to the anterior cranial fossa: a surgical and engineering feasibility study.}, journal = {Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery : official journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery}, volume = {149}, number = {6}, pages = {940-946}, pmid = {24154747}, issn = {1097-6817}, support = {R21 EB016122/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; T32 DC000018/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; T32 DC00018/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Cadaver ; Cranial Fossa, Anterior/*surgery ; Craniotomy/*methods ; Dissection/methods ; Feasibility Studies ; Humans ; *Robotics/instrumentation/methods ; Skull Base/surgery ; Surgery, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Integration of robotic surgical technology into skull base surgery is limited due to minimum angle requirements between robotic tools (narrow funnel effect), steep angle of approach, and instrumentation size. The objectives of this study were to systematically analyze surgical approach portals using a computer model, determine optimal approaches, and assess feasibility of the derived approaches on robotic surgical systems.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: Computer analysis on 10 computed tomography scans was performed to determine approach trajectories, angles between robotic tools, and distances to specified skull base target locations for transorbital and transnasal surgical approach portals.<br><br>SETTING: Dry laboratory and cadaver laboratory.<br><br>SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The optimal combinations were tested on the da Vinci and Raven robotic systems.<br><br>RESULTS: Multiportal analyses showed the angles between 2 robotic tools were 14.7, 28.3, and 52.0 degrees in the cases of 2 transnasal portals, combined transnasal and medial orbit portals, and bilateral superior orbit portals, respectively, approaching a prechiasmatic target. The addition of medial and superior transorbital portals improved the skull base trajectory angles 21 and 27 degrees, respectively. Two robotic tools required an angle of at least 20 degrees between them to function effectively at skull base targets.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Technical feasibility of robotic transorbital and transnasal approaches to access sella and parasellar target locations was demonstrated. This technique addresses the 2 major drawbacks of (1) the narrow funnel effect generated from portals in close proximity and (2) the steep angle of approach to the skull base, as observed in previous studies analyzing transoral, transcervical, transmaxillary, and transhyoid portals.}, }
@article {pmid24139715, year = {2013}, author = {Goharpey, N and Crewther, DP and Crewther, SG}, title = {Problem solving ability in children with intellectual disability as measured by the Raven's colored progressive matrices.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {34}, number = {12}, pages = {4366-4374}, doi = {10.1016/j.ridd.2013.09.013}, pmid = {24139715}, issn = {1873-3379}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Autistic Disorder/complications/diagnosis/physiopathology ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; Down Syndrome/complications/diagnosis/physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/diagnosis/etiology/*physiopathology ; Male ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; }, abstract = {This study investigated the developmental trajectory of problem solving ability in children with intellectual disability (ID) of different etiologies (Down Syndrome, Idiopathic ID or low functioning Autism) as measured on the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices test (RCPM). Children with typical development (TD) and children with ID were matched on total correct performance (i.e., non-verbal mental age) on the RCPM. RCPM total correct performance and the sophistication of error types were found to be associated with receptive vocabulary in all participants, suggesting that verbal ability plays a role in more sophisticated problem solving tasks. Children with ID made similar errors on the RCPM as younger children with TD as well as more positional error types. This result suggests that children with ID who are deficient in their cognitive processing resort to developmentally immature problem solving strategies when unable to determine the correct answer. Overall, the findings support the use of RCPM as a valid means of matching intellectual capacity of children with TD and ID.}, }
@article {pmid24136384, year = {2013}, author = {Stenkat, J and Krautwald-Junghanns, ME and Schmidt, V}, title = {Causes of morbidity and mortality in free-living birds in an urban environment in Germany.}, journal = {EcoHealth}, volume = {10}, number = {4}, pages = {352-365}, pmid = {24136384}, issn = {1612-9210}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/microbiology/mortality/parasitology ; *Birds ; Cities/epidemiology ; Female ; Germany/epidemiology ; Male ; }, abstract = {Free-living birds are often presented to veterinarians at rehabilitation centers as well as in private practice. Information about disease processes and causes of death of indigenous free-living birds can aid the clinician in establishing proper treatment and in the assessment of potential zoonotic risks. For the present study, pathogens as causes of morbidity and mortality were determined by performing a complete necropsy on free-living birds presented to the Clinic for Birds and Reptiles of the University of Leipzig (Germany) that died shortly after admission or were euthanized due to an unfavorable prognosis. Over a 2-year period, 251 birds representing 13 families (Accipitridae, Apodidae, Columbidae, Corvidae, Falconidae, Fringillidae, Hirundinidae, Paridae, Passeridae, Picidae, Strigidae, Sturnidae and Turdidae) were examined. Trauma (62%), including several bite injuries inducing bacterial septicemia caused by Pasteurella multocida, was the most common cause of morbidity. Parasitic disease (18%) was mainly caused by Trichomonas gallinae, Eucoleus dispar and Syngamus trachea. Metabolic disease (13%), including fibrous osteodystrophy, was almost exclusively limited to juvenile specimens. Different Enterobacteriaceae including E. coli, Salmonella Typhimurium DT040 as well as Mycobacterium avium ssp. avium were identified as causal agents of primary bacterial disease (5%). Primary bacterial infection as cause of death or disease was of major importance in nestlings. Viral infections, mycoses and intoxication had minor significance as causes of morbidity.}, }
@article {pmid24134616, year = {2013}, author = {Iqbal, M and Yaqub, T and Mukhtar, N and Shabbir, MZ and McCauley, JW}, title = {Infectivity and transmissibility of H9N2 avian influenza virus in chickens and wild terrestrial birds.}, journal = {Veterinary research}, volume = {44}, number = {1}, pages = {100}, pmid = {24134616}, issn = {1297-9716}, support = {BBS/E/I/00001708/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; MC_U117585868/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/J004448/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; *Chickens ; *Coturnix ; Female ; Hemagglutination Tests/veterinary ; Influenza A Virus, H9N2 Subtype/genetics/*pathogenicity/*physiology ; Influenza in Birds/*transmission/virology ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Pakistan ; Poultry Diseases/*transmission/virology ; Sequence Analysis, DNA/veterinary ; *Songbirds ; Virus Shedding ; }, abstract = {Genetic changes in avian influenza viruses influence their infectivity, virulence and transmission. Recently we identified a novel genotype of H9N2 viruses in widespread circulation in poultry in Pakistan that contained polymerases (PB2, PB1 and PA) and non-structural (NS) gene segments identical to highly pathogenic H7N3 viruses. Here, we investigated the potential of these viruses to cause disease and assessed the transmission capability of the virus within and between poultry and wild terrestrial avian species. Groups of broilers, layers, jungle fowl, quail, sparrows or crows were infected with a representative strain (A/chicken/UDL-01/08) of this H9N2 virus and then mixed with naïve birds of the same breed or species, or different species to examine transmission. With the exception of crows, all directly inoculated and contact birds showed clinical signs, varying in severity with quail showing the most pronounced clinical signs. Virus shedding was detected in all infected birds, with quail showing the greatest levels of virus secretion, but only very low levels of virus were found in directly infected crow samples. Efficient virus intra-species transmission was observed within each group with the exception of crows in which no evidence of transmission was seen. Interspecies transmission was examined between chickens and sparrows and vice versa and efficient transmission was seen in either direction. These results highlight the ease of spread of this group of H9N2 viruses between domesticated poultry and sparrows and show that sparrows need to be considered as a high risk species for transmitting H9N2 viruses between premises.}, }
@article {pmid24134378, year = {2013}, author = {Krieger, N and Chen, JT and Coull, B and Waterman, PD and Beckfield, J}, title = {The unique impact of abolition of Jim Crow laws on reducing inequities in infant death rates and implications for choice of comparison groups in analyzing societal determinants of health.}, journal = {American journal of public health}, volume = {103}, number = {12}, pages = {2234-2244}, pmid = {24134378}, issn = {1541-0048}, support = {R21 CA168470/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; 1R21CA168470-01/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Black or African American ; Censuses ; Civil Rights/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Cohort Studies ; Confidence Intervals ; Humans ; Infant Mortality/*trends ; Infant, Newborn ; Racism/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Supreme Court Decisions ; United States ; *White People ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: We explored associations between the abolition of Jim Crow laws (i.e., state laws legalizing racial discrimination overturned by the 1964 US Civil Rights Act) and birth cohort trends in infant death rates.<br><br>METHODS: We analyzed 1959 to 2006 US Black and White infant death rates within and across sets of states (polities) with and without Jim Crow laws.<br><br>RESULTS: Between 1965 and 1969, a unique convergence of Black infant death rates occurred across polities; in 1960 to 1964, the Black infant death rate was 1.19 times higher (95% confidence interval [CI]&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.18, 1.20) in the Jim Crow polity than in the non-Jim Crow polity, whereas in 1970 to 1974 the rate ratio shrank to and remained at approximately 1 (with the 95% CI including 1) until 2000, when it rose to 1.10 (95% CI&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.08, 1.12). No such convergence occurred for Black-White differences in infant death rates or for White infants.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that abolition of Jim Crow laws affected US Black infant death rates and that valid analysis of societal determinants of health requires appropriate comparison groups.}, }
@article {pmid24132979, year = {2014}, author = {Alderman, H and Hawkesworth, S and Lundberg, M and Tasneem, A and Mark, H and Moore, SE}, title = {Supplemental feeding during pregnancy compared with maternal supplementation during lactation does not affect schooling and cognitive development through late adolescence.}, journal = {The American journal of clinical nutrition}, volume = {99}, number = {1}, pages = {122-129}, pmid = {24132979}, issn = {1938-3207}, support = {MC_U123292701/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; MC-A760-5QX00/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; *Breast Feeding ; Child Development/drug effects ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Cohort Studies ; Dietary Proteins/administration &amp; dosage ; *Dietary Supplements ; Energy Intake ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Gambia ; Humans ; Infant ; Lactation/*drug effects ; Male ; *Maternal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; Pregnancy ; Rural Population ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The long-term impact of early malnutrition on human capital outcomes remains unclear, and existing evidence has come largely from observational studies.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: We compared the impact of a nutritional supplement given during pregnancy or lactation in rural Gambia on educational performance and cognitive ability in offspring at their maturity.<br><br>DESIGN: This study was a follow-up of a randomized trial of prenatal high protein and energy supplementation conducted between 1989 and 1994. Subjects were 16-22 y of age at follow-up, and information was collected on schooling achievement and cognitive ability by using the Raven's progressive matrices test, Mill Hill vocabulary test, and forward and backward digit-span tests.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 1459 individuals were traced and interviewed and represented 71% of the original cohort and 81% of the surviving cohort. There was no difference in cognitive ability or educational attainment between treatment groups by using any of the methods of assessment.<br><br>CONCLUSION: We have shown little evidence to support a long-term effect of prenatal protein-energy supplementation compared with supplementation during lactation on cognitive development in rural Gambians. This trial was registered at http://www.controlled-trials.com as ISRCTN72582014.}, }
@article {pmid24122064, year = {2013}, author = {Fancellu, R and Paridi, D and Tomasello, C and Panzeri, M and Castaldo, A and Genitrini, S and Soliveri, P and Girotti, F}, title = {Longitudinal study of cognitive and psychiatric functions in spinocerebellar ataxia types 1 and 2.}, journal = {Journal of neurology}, volume = {260}, number = {12}, pages = {3134-3143}, pmid = {24122064}, issn = {1432-1459}, mesh = {Cognition Disorders/etiology/*psychology ; Disease Progression ; Female ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Spinocerebellar Ataxias/*psychology ; }, abstract = {The role of the cerebellum in cognition, both in healthy subjects and in patients with cerebellar diseases, is debated. Neuropsychological studies in spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1) and type 2 (SCA2) demonstrated impairments in executive functions, verbal memory, and visuospatial performances, but prospective evaluations are not available. Our aims were to assess progression of cognitive and psychiatric functions in patients with SCA1 and SCA2 in a longitudinal study. We evaluated at baseline 20 patients with SCA1, 22 patients with SCA2 and 17 matched controls. Two subgroups of patients (9 SCA1, 11 SCA2) were re-evaluated after 2 years. We tested cognitive functions (Mini Mental State Examination, digit span, Corsi span, verbal memory, attentional matrices, modified Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, Raven Progressive Matrices, Benton test, phonemic and semantic fluency), psychiatric status (Scales for Assessment of Negative and Positive Symptoms, Hamilton Depression and Anxiety Scales), neurological conditions (Scale for Assessment and Rating of Ataxia), and functional abilities (Unified Huntington Disease Rating Scale–part IV). At baseline, SCA1 and SCA2 patients had significant deficits compared to controls, mainly in executive functions (phonemic and semantic fluencies, attentional matrices); SCA2 showed further impairment in visuospatial and visuoperceptive tests (Raven matrices, Benton test, Corsi span). Both SCA groups had higher depression and negative symptoms, particularly apathy, compared to controls. After 2 years, motor and functional disability worsened, while only attentive performances deteriorated in SCA2. This longitudinal study showed dissociation in progression of motor disability and cognitive impairment, suggesting that in SCA1 and SCA2 motor and cognitive functions might be involved with different progression rates.}, }
@article {pmid24121129, year = {2013}, author = {Qiao, L and Wei, DT and Li, WF and Chen, QL and Che, XW and Li, BB and Li, YD and Qiu, J and Zhang, QL and Liu, YJ}, title = {Rumination mediates the relationship between structural variations in ventrolateral prefrontal cortex and sensitivity to negative life events.}, journal = {Neuroscience}, volume = {255}, number = {}, pages = {255-264}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroscience.2013.09.053}, pmid = {24121129}, issn = {1873-7544}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Psychological ; Adolescent ; Adult ; *Affect ; Female ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; *Individuality ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; *Personality ; Prefrontal Cortex/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Stress, Psychological/*psychology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Individuals have different levels of stress sensitivity. An individual's predisposition to experience negative life events (NLEs) may make him/her more vulnerable to a series of psychopathological and physical diseases. However, the neuroanatomical correlates of individual differences in sensitivity to NLEs remain unknown. In this study, voxel-based morphometry was used to identify the gray matter (GM) associations of individual differences in sensitivity to NLEs measured by adolescent self-rating life events checklist. Results showed that there was a positive association between individual NLEs sensitivity and regional GM volume (rGMV) in the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (VLPFC). GM was mostly evident in the left frontal operculum and a small part of the left middle frontal gyrus. This region was thought to play an important role in introception. Importantly, our study revealed that rumination served as a mediator between the rGMV of the VLPFC and individual NLEs sensitivity. These findings suggest that people with greater VLPFC might be more inclined to ruminate and the ruminative response style might make them more sensitive to NLEs.}, }
@article {pmid24118218, year = {2013}, author = {Ahn, BK and Kim, YS and Kim, HJ and Rho, NK and Kim, HS}, title = {Consensus recommendations on the aesthetic usage of botulinum toxin type A in Asians.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {39}, number = {12}, pages = {1843-1860}, doi = {10.1111/dsu.12317}, pmid = {24118218}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {*Asian People ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; *Consensus ; *Esthetics ; Face ; Humans ; Leg ; Neck ; Neuromuscular Agents/*therapeutic use ; Republic of Korea ; Skin Aging ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The use of botulinum toxin has rapidly expanded into various aesthetic applications. Any guideline representing a consensus for aesthetic treatments using botulinum toxin type A (BTA) in Asians has not been published.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To provide consensus recommendations on common aesthetic problems which are treated by neurotoxin in Asians.<br><br>METHODS: A panel of experienced Korean dermatologists was convened to develop a clinical consensus on common aesthetic problems involving the face, neck, and calves in Asians, based on their own extensive experience.<br><br>RESULTS: The consensus recommendations address general questions regarding treatment and provide specific guidelines on each common aesthetic indication. The recommended final concentration of BTA was 50&#xa0;U/mL after reconstitution with physiologic saline. For horizontal forehead lines, the members recommended nine injections in two rows into the frontalis with 1&#xa0;U/point. For glabellar lines, the members recommended three injection points (a total of 8&#xa0;U). For crow's feet, the members recommended three injections per side (7&#xa0;U/side) at the lateral part of the orbicularis oculi. For infraorbital wrinkles, one to two points per side in the superficial subcutaneous space approximately 1&#xa0;cm below the lash line were recommended (1-2&#xa0;U/side). For nasal flare, one injection point in the middle of each ala nasi was recommended (a total of 2&#xa0;U). For depressed nasal tip, a single injection deep within the columella was recommended, with a dose of 3&#xa0;U. For benign masseter hypertrophy, the members recommended a six-point injection to the masseter (three points per side for a total of 50-60&#xa0;U). For the treatment of calf hypertrophy, the members recommended a total dose of 100 to 120&#xa0;U (50-60&#xa0;U/side), divided between six injection points (approximately 8-10&#xa0;U/point).<br><br>CONCLUSION: This guideline provides a framework for physicians who wish to perform safe and efficacious injections of BTA in Asians.}, }
@article {pmid24101898, year = {2013}, author = {de Boer, M and Toni, I and Willems, RM}, title = {What drives successful verbal communication?.}, journal = {Frontiers in human neuroscience}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {622}, pmid = {24101898}, issn = {1662-5161}, abstract = {THERE IS A VAST AMOUNT OF POTENTIAL MAPPINGS BETWEEN BEHAVIORS AND INTENTIONS IN COMMUNICATION: a behavior can indicate a multitude of different intentions, and the same intention can be communicated with a variety of behaviors. Humans routinely solve these many-to-many referential problems when producing utterances for an Addressee. This ability might rely on social cognitive skills, for instance, the ability to manipulate unobservable summary variables to disambiguate ambiguous behavior of other agents ("mentalizing") and the drive to invest resources into changing and understanding the mental state of other agents ("communicative motivation"). Alternatively, the ambiguities of verbal communicative interactions might be solved by general-purpose cognitive abilities that process cues that are incidentally associated with the communicative interaction. In this study, we assess these possibilities by testing which cognitive traits account for communicative success during a verbal referential task. Cognitive traits were assessed with psychometric scores quantifying motivation, mentalizing abilities, and general-purpose cognitive abilities, taxing abstract visuo-spatial abilities. Communicative abilities of participants were assessed by using an on-line interactive task that required a speaker to verbally convey a concept to an Addressee. The communicative success of the utterances was quantified by measuring how frequently a number of Evaluators would infer the correct concept. Speakers with high motivational and general-purpose cognitive abilities generated utterances that were more easily interpreted. These findings extend to the domain of verbal communication the notion that motivational and cognitive factors influence the human ability to rapidly converge on shared communicative innovations.}, }
@article {pmid24101633, year = {2013}, author = {Gowlett, JA}, title = {Elongation as a factor in artefacts of humans and other animals: an Acheulean example in comparative context.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {368}, number = {1630}, pages = {20130114}, pmid = {24101633}, issn = {1471-2970}, mesh = {Animals ; *Hominidae ; Humans ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Elongation is a commonly found feature in artefacts made and used by humans and other animals and can be analysed in comparative study. Whether made for use in hand or beak, the artefacts have some common properties of length, breadth, thickness and balance point, and elongation can be studied as a factor relating to construction or use of a long axis. In human artefacts, elongation can be traced through the archaeological record, for example in stone blades of the Upper Palaeolithic (traditionally regarded as more sophisticated than earlier artefacts), and in earlier blades of the Middle Palaeolithic. It is now recognized that elongation extends to earlier Palaeolithic artefacts, being found in the repertoire of both Neanderthals and more archaic humans. Artefacts used by non-human animals, including chimpanzees, capuchin monkeys and New Caledonian crows show selection for diameter and length, and consistent interventions of modification. Both chimpanzees and capuchins trim side branches from stems, and appropriate lengths of stave are selected or cut. In human artefacts, occasional organic finds show elongation back to about 0.5 million years. A record of elongation achieved in stone tools survives to at least 1.75 Ma (million years ago) in the Acheulean tradition. Throughout this tradition, some Acheulean handaxes are highly elongated, usually found with others that are less elongated. Finds from the million-year-old site of Kilombe and Kenya are given as an example. These findings argue that the elongation need not be integral to a design, but that artefacts may be the outcome of adjustments to individual variables. Such individual adjustments are seen in animal artefacts. In the case of a handaxe, the maker must balance the adjustments to achieve a satisfactory outcome in the artefact as a whole. It is argued that the need to make decisions about individual variables within multivariate objects provides an essential continuity across artefacts made by different species.}, }
@article {pmid24101630, year = {2013}, author = {McGrew, WC}, title = {Is primate tool use special? Chimpanzee and New Caledonian crow compared.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {368}, number = {1630}, pages = {20120422}, pmid = {24101630}, issn = {1471-2970}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Pan troglodytes/*physiology/*psychology ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) is well-known in both nature and captivity as an impressive maker and user of tools, but recently the New Caledonian crow (Corvus moneduloides) has been championed as being equivalent or superior to the ape in elementary technology. I systematically compare the two taxa, going beyond simple presence/absence scoring of tool-using and -making types, on four more precise aspects of material culture: (i) types of associative technology (tools used in combination); (ii) modes of tool making; (iii) modes of tool use; and (iv) functions of tool use. I emphasize tool use in nature, when performance is habitual or customary, rather than in anecdotal or idiosyncratic. On all four measures, the ape shows more variety than does the corvid, especially in modes and functions that go beyond extractive foraging. However, more sustained field research is required on the crows before this contrast is conclusive.}, }
@article {pmid24101628, year = {2013}, author = {Teschke, I and Wascher, CA and Scriba, MF and von Bayern, AM and Huml, V and Siemers, B and Tebbich, S}, title = {Did tool-use evolve with enhanced physical cognitive abilities?.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {368}, number = {1630}, pages = {20120418}, pmid = {24101628}, issn = {1471-2970}, mesh = {Animals ; Choice Behavior ; *Cognition ; Crows/*physiology ; Ecuador ; Finches/*physiology ; Logistic Models ; New Caledonia ; Random Allocation ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The use and manufacture of tools have been considered to be cognitively demanding and thus a possible driving factor in the evolution of intelligence. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that enhanced physical cognitive abilities evolved in conjunction with the use of tools, by comparing the performance of naturally tool-using and non-tool-using species in a suite of physical and general learning tasks. We predicted that the habitually tool-using species, New Caledonian crows and Galápagos woodpecker finches, should outperform their non-tool-using relatives, the small tree finches and the carrion crows in a physical problem but not in general learning tasks. We only found a divergence in the predicted direction for corvids. That only one of our comparisons supports the predictions under this hypothesis might be attributable to different complexities of tool-use in the two tool-using species. A critical evaluation is offered of the conceptual and methodological problems inherent in comparative studies on tool-related cognitive abilities.}, }
@article {pmid24101625, year = {2013}, author = {St Clair, JJ and Rutz, C}, title = {New Caledonian crows attend to multiple functional properties of complex tools.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {368}, number = {1630}, pages = {20120415}, pmid = {24101625}, issn = {1471-2970}, support = {BB/C517392/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/G023913/2/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Binomial Distribution ; *Crows ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; New Caledonia ; *Tool Use Behavior ; Video Recording ; }, abstract = {The ability to attend to the functional properties of foraging tools should affect energy-intake rates, fitness components and ultimately the evolutionary dynamics of tool-related behaviour. New Caledonian crows Corvus moneduloides use three distinct tool types for extractive foraging: non-hooked stick tools, hooked stick tools and tools cut from the barbed edges of Pandanus spp. leaves. The latter two types exhibit clear functional polarity, because of (respectively) a single terminal, crow-manufactured hook and natural barbs running along one edge of the leaf strip; in each case, the 'hooks' can only aid prey capture if the tool is oriented correctly by the crow during deployment. A previous experimental study of New Caledonian crows found that subjects paid little attention to the barbs of supplied (wide) pandanus tools, resulting in non-functional tool orientation during foraging. This result is puzzling, given the presumed fitness benefits of consistently orienting tools functionally in the wild. We investigated whether the lack of discrimination with respect to (wide) pandanus tool orientation also applies to hooked stick tools. We experimentally provided subjects with naturalistic replica tools in a range of orientations and found that all subjects used these tools correctly, regardless of how they had been presented. In a companion experiment, we explored the extent to which normally co-occurring tool features (terminal hook, curvature of the tool shaft and stripped bark at the hooked end) inform tool-orientation decisions, by forcing birds to deploy 'unnatural' tools, which exhibited these traits at opposite ends. Our subjects attended to at least two of the three tool features, although, as expected, the location of the hook was of paramount importance. We discuss these results in the context of earlier research and propose avenues for future work.}, }
@article {pmid24096038, year = {2013}, author = {Wilcoxen, TE and Bridge, ES and Boughton, RK and Hahn, TP and Schoech, SJ}, title = {Physiology of reproductive senescence in Florida scrub-jays: results from a long-term study and GnRH challenge.}, journal = {General and comparative endocrinology}, volume = {194}, number = {}, pages = {168-174}, doi = {10.1016/j.ygcen.2013.09.016}, pmid = {24096038}, issn = {1095-6840}, mesh = {Aging/*metabolism/*physiology ; Animals ; Female ; Florida ; Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone/*metabolism/*physiology ; Male ; Passeriformes/*metabolism/*physiology ; Reproduction/*physiology ; }, abstract = {In most vertebrates, production of reproductive hormones wanes with age, co-occurring with a decline in reproductive output. Measurement of these hormones can serve as a key marker of the onset of reproductive senescence. Longitudinal studies of physiological parameters in populations of free-living animals are relatively uncommon; however, we have monitored baseline concentrations of hormones for nine years in a population of Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens). We hypothesized that concentrations of circulating reproductive hormones change with age, and predicted declines in reproductive hormones in the oldest jays. We found that baseline levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone (T) were relatively low in both young and old male breeders and reach their highest levels in birds aged 4-7years. Conversely, we found no age-related patterns in baseline levels of LH or estradiol in female jays. In males we determined which component of the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis is responsible for observed age-based differences, by challenging males of different ages with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH); thereby allowing assessment of pituitary and gonadal responsiveness by measuring plasma concentrations of luteinizing hormone and testosterone, respectively. The magnitude of increase in levels of both LH and T in response to GnRH challenge decreased with age in male breeders. Combined with the baseline levels, the results from the GnRH challenge suggest that younger birds have the capability to produce higher levels of reproductive hormone, whereas the old birds may be constrained by senescence in their ability to produce these hormones.}, }
@article {pmid24088010, year = {2014}, author = {Hession, CE and Eastwood, B and Watterson, D and Lehane, CM and Oxley, N and Murphy, BA}, title = {Therapeutic horse riding improves cognition, mood arousal, and ambulation in children with dyspraxia.}, journal = {Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {19-23}, doi = {10.1089/acm.2013.0207}, pmid = {24088010}, issn = {1557-7708}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Affect/*physiology ; Apraxias/psychology/*therapy ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Equine-Assisted Therapy/*methods ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Psychological Tests ; Walking/psychology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of the physical motion of a horse (riding therapy) combined with the audiovisual perception of this motion on a group of children with dyspraxia in terms of cognition, mood arousal, and gait variability.<br><br>DESIGN: The study design was a pretest/post-test.<br><br>SETTINGS/LOCATION: The study was conducted at the Fettercairn Youth Horse Project, Fettercairn, Tallaght, Dublin.<br><br>SUBJECTS: Forty (40) children ranging from 6 to 15 years of age with a primary diagnosis of dyspraxia were the study subjects.<br><br>INTERVENTIONS: Children meeting inclusion criteria participated in six 30-minute horse-riding sessions and two 30-minute audiovisual screening sessions.<br><br>OUTCOME MEASURES: A Standard Progressive Matrices test (also known as the Ravens test) was used to measure aspects of general intelligence. A Childhood Depression Inventory (CDI) questionnaire was used to assess cognitive, affective, and behavioral signs of depression. A GAITRite Pressure Mapping System analyzed foot function and gait variability by measuring single and double support, cycle time, cadence, toe in/out, and stride length.<br><br>RESULTS: Significant improvements were evident on the Ravens test and the CDI by the end of the study period. The amount of both single and double support required while completing the walking task also was significantly reduced. Improvements were visible on toe in/out values, cycle time, and cadence. Changes in stride length did not reach statistical significance.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: These findings support the theory that riding therapy and/or the perception of beat-based rhythms, as experienced by the rider on the horse, stimulates cognition, mood, and gait parameters. In addition, the data also pointed to the potential value of an audiovisual approach to equine therapy.}, }
@article {pmid24085741, year = {2014}, author = {Tavassoli, T and Miller, LJ and Schoen, SA and Nielsen, DM and Baron-Cohen, S}, title = {Sensory over-responsivity in adults with autism spectrum conditions.}, journal = {Autism : the international journal of research and practice}, volume = {18}, number = {4}, pages = {428-432}, doi = {10.1177/1362361313477246}, pmid = {24085741}, issn = {1461-7005}, support = {G0600977/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Autistic Disorder/*complications/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Perceptual Disorders/*complications/*psychology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {Anecdotal reports and empirical evidence suggest that sensory processing issues are a key feature of autism spectrum conditions. This study set out to investigate whether adults with autism spectrum conditions report more sensory over-responsivity than adults without autism spectrum conditions. Another goal of the study was to identify whether autistic traits in adults with and without autism spectrum conditions were associated with sensory over-responsivity. Adults with (n = 221) and without (n = 181) autism spectrum conditions participated in an online survey. The Autism Spectrum Quotient, the Raven Matrices and the Sensory Processing Scale were used to characterize the sample. Adults with autism spectrum conditions reported more sensory over-responsivity than control participants across various sensory domains (visual, auditory, tactile, olfactory, gustatory and proprioceptive). Sensory over-responsivity correlated positively with autistic traits (Autism Spectrum Quotient) at a significant level across groups and within groups. Adults with autism spectrum conditions experience sensory over-responsivity to daily sensory stimuli to a high degree. A positive relationship exists between sensory over-responsivity and autistic traits. Understanding sensory over-responsivity and ways of measuring it in adults with autism spectrum conditions has implications for research and clinical settings.}, }
@article {pmid24085352, year = {2013}, author = {Kohlhof, H and Ziebarth, K and Gravius, S and Wirtz, DC and Siebenrock, KA}, title = {[Operative treatment of congenital hip osteoarthritis with high hip luxation (Crowe type IV)].}, journal = {Operative Orthopadie und Traumatologie}, volume = {25}, number = {5}, pages = {469-482}, pmid = {24085352}, issn = {1439-0981}, mesh = {Arthroplasty, Replacement, Hip/*instrumentation/*methods ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Combined Modality Therapy ; Female ; Hip Dislocation/complications/diagnosis/*therapy ; *Hip Prosthesis ; Humans ; Male ; Motion Therapy, Continuous Passive/*methods ; Osteoarthritis, Hip/complications/diagnosis/*therapy ; Recovery of Function ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of the therapy is mechanical and functional stabilization of high dislocated hips with dysplasia coxarthrosis using total hip arthroplasty (THA).<br><br>INDICATIONS: Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) in adults, symptomatic dysplasia coxarthrosis, high hip dislocation according to Crowe type III/IV, and symptomatic leg length inequality.<br><br>CONTRAINDICATIONS: Cerebrospinal dysfunction, muscular dystrophy, apparent disturbance of bone metabolism, acute or chronic infections, and immunocompromised patients.<br><br>SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: With the patient in a lateral decubitus position an incision is made between the anterior border of the gluteus maximus muscle and the posterior border of the gluteus medius muscle (Gibson interval). Identification of the sciatic nerve to protect the nerve from traction disorders by visual control. After performing trochanter flip osteotomy, preparation of the true actetabulum if possible. Implantation of the reinforcement ring, preparation of the femur and if necessary for mobilization, resection until the trochanter minor. Test repositioning under control of the sciatic nerve. Finally, refixation of the trochanteric crest.<br><br>POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: During hospital stay, intensive mobilization of the hip joint using a continuous passive motion machine with maximum flexion of 70&#xb0;. No active abduction and passive adduction over the body midline. Maximum weight bearing 10-15 kg for 8 weeks, subsequently, first clinical and radiographic follow-up and deep venous thrombosis prophylaxis until full weight bearing.<br><br>RESULTS: From 1995 to 2012, 28 THAs of a Crow type IV high hip-dislocation were performed in our institute. Until now 14 patients have been analyzed during a follow-up of 8 years in 2012. Mid-term results showed an improvement of the postoperative clinical score (Merle d'Aubign&#xe9; score) in 86&#x2009;% of patients. Good to excellent results were obtained in 79&#x2009;% of cases. Long-term results are not yet available. In one case an iatrogenic neuropraxia of the sciatic nerve was observed and after trauma a redislocation of the arthroplasty appeared in another case. In 2 cases an infection of the THA appeared 8 and 15 months after index surgery. No pseudoarthrosis of the trochanter or aseptic loosening was noticed.}, }
@article {pmid24082312, year = {2013}, author = {Terzaghi, M and Zucchella, C and Rustioni, V and Sinforiani, E and Manni, R}, title = {Cognitive performances and mild cognitive impairment in idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder: results of a longitudinal follow-up study.}, journal = {Sleep}, volume = {36}, number = {10}, pages = {1527-1532}, pmid = {24082312}, issn = {1550-9109}, mesh = {Aged ; Case-Control Studies ; Cognition ; Cognitive Dysfunction/*etiology ; Dementia/etiology ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Memory ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinsonian Disorders/etiology ; Prospective Studies ; REM Sleep Behavior Disorder/*complications ; }, abstract = {STUDY OBJECTIVES: To investigate the capacity of neuropsychological deficits in idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) to predict the development of dementia and/or parkinsonism.<br><br>DESIGN: Prospective longitudinal follow-up study.<br><br>SETTING: Tertiary sleep center.<br><br>PATIENTS: Twenty patients with initial iRBD (19 males, mean age 66.1 &#xb1; 7.1) underwent a clinical and neuropsychological follow-up within a mean of 43 &#xb1; 19 months. Neuropsychological performances at baseline were compared with those of healthy controls matched for sex, age, and education.<br><br>INTERVENTIONS: Discontinuation of clonazepam at least 7 days before the follow-up evaluation.<br><br>RESULTS: At follow-up, the Wilcoxon test showed a significant worsening of scores on Raven Colored Matrices 47 (P = 0.01), Attentive matrices (P = 0.002), phonemic (P = 0.04) and sematic (P = 0.04) fluency. Thirteen patients (65%) showed cognitive deterioration involving multiple domains. Of these, four patients (20%) maintained a stable cognitive dysfunction and nine (45%) showed a progression of cognitive dysfunction: six (30%) in constructional abilities (P = 0.03), four (20%) in short-term memory (P = NS), three (15%) in executive functions and non-verbal logic (P = NS), one (5%) in verbal fluency (P = NS), and one (5%) in long-term memory (P = NS) (McNemar test). Seven patients (35%) retained a normal cognitive profile. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) was diagnosed at baseline in seven patients (35%). At follow-up, three of these patients showed overt dementia that was accompanied by parkinsonism in all cases; one had worsened from non-amnesic single-domain to nonamnesic multiple-domain MCI, two were stable, and one patient no longer met the criteria for MCI. Four patients (20%) without MCI at baseline had MCI at follow-up. Patients who developed MCI/dementia had an older age at disease onset (65.8 &#xb1; 5.4 versus 56.8 &#xb1; 9.3; P = 0.01) compared with those who did not.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our findings corroborate evidence that visuospatial abilities constitute the area most affected in idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (learning as a stable deficit and copying as an evolving deficit). Cognitive deterioration, involving mainly nonverbal logic, attention, and executive functions, can be observed in rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder follow-up, suggesting an underlying evolving degenerative process. Our data confirm that mild cognitive impairment is frequent in idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder. The presence of mild cognitive impairment predicts the eventual risk of developing dementia, which seemed to be associated with parkinsonism.}, }
@article {pmid24081824, year = {2014}, author = {Khan, SU and Berman, L and Haider, N and Gerloff, N and Rahman, MZ and Shu, B and Rahman, M and Dey, TK and Davis, TC and Das, BC and Balish, A and Islam, A and Teifke, JP and Zeidner, N and Lindstrom, S and Klimov, A and Donis, RO and Luby, SP and Shivaprasad, HL and Mikolon, AB}, title = {Investigating a crow die-off in January-February 2011 during the introduction of a new clade of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 into Bangladesh.}, journal = {Archives of virology}, volume = {159}, number = {3}, pages = {509-518}, doi = {10.1007/s00705-013-1842-0}, pmid = {24081824}, issn = {1432-8798}, support = {5U01CI000628/CI/NCPDCID CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bangladesh/epidemiology ; Cluster Analysis ; Crows ; *Disease Outbreaks ; Hemagglutinin Glycoproteins, Influenza Virus/genetics ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/*isolation &amp; purification ; Influenza in Birds/*epidemiology/*virology ; Molecular Epidemiology ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {We investigated unusual crow mortality in Bangladesh during January-February 2011 at two sites. Crows of two species, Corvus splendens and C. macrorhynchos, were found sick and dead during the outbreaks. In selected crow roosts, morbidity was ~1 % and mortality was ~4 % during the investigation. Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 clade 2.3.2.1 was isolated from dead crows. All isolates were closely related to A/duck/India/02CA10/2011 (H5N1) with 99.8 % and A/crow/Bangladesh/11rs1984-15/2011 (H5N1) virus with 99 % nucleotide sequence identity in their HA genes. The phylogenetic cluster of Bangladesh viruses suggested a common ancestor with viruses found in poultry from India, Myanmar and Nepal. Histopathological changes and immunohistochemistry staining in brain, pancreas, liver, heart, kidney, bursa of Fabricius, rectum, and cloaca were consistent with influenza virus infection. Through our limited investigation in domesticated birds near the crow roosts, we did not identify any samples that tested positive for influenza virus A/H5N1. However, environmental samples collected from live-bird markets near an outbreak site during the month of the outbreaks tested very weakly positive for influenza virus A/H5N1 in clade 2.3.2.1-specific rRT-PCR. Continuation of surveillance in wild and domestic birds may identify evolution of new avian influenza virus and associated public-health risks.}, }
@article {pmid24078079, year = {2014}, author = {Soler, JJ and De Neve, L and Martín-Gálvez, D and Molina-Morales, M and Pérez-Contreras, T and Ruiz-Rodríguez, M}, title = {Do climatic conditions affect host and parasite phenotypes differentially? A case study of magpies and great spotted cuckoos.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {174}, number = {2}, pages = {327-338}, pmid = {24078079}, issn = {1432-1939}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/immunology/*parasitology ; *Climate ; Diptera/*physiology ; Ectoparasitic Infestations ; Passeriformes/immunology/parasitology ; *Phenotype ; Seasons ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Climatic conditions, through their effects on resource availability, may affect important life history strategies and trade-offs in animals, as well as their interactions with other organisms such as parasites. This impact may depend on species-specific pathways of development that differ even among species with similar resource requirements (e.g., avian brood parasites and their hosts). Here we explore the degree of covariation between environmental-climatic conditions and nestling phenotypes (i.e., tarsus length, body mass, immune response to phytohemagglutinin injection) and ectoparasite loads of great spotted cuckoos (Clamator glandarius) and those of their magpie (Pica pica) hosts, both within and among 11 study years (1997-2011). Our main results were that (1) nestling phenotypes differed among years, but differently for great spotted cuckoos and magpies; (2) nestling phenotypes showed significant among-year covariation with breeding climatic conditions (temperature and precipitation); and (3) these associations differed for cuckoos and magpies for some phenotypic traits. As the average temperature at the beginning of the breeding season (April) increased, body mass and tarsus length increased only for cuckoos, but not for magpie hosts, while immune response decreased in both species. Finally, (4) the strength of the within-year relationships between the probability of ectoparasitism by Carnus hemapterus flies and laying date (used as an estimate of the within-year variation in climatic conditions) was negatively affected by the annual accumulated precipitation in April. These results strongly suggest that variation in climatic conditions would result in asymmetric effects on different species with respect to the probability of ectoparasitism, immunity and body size. Such asymmetric effects may affect animal interactions in general and those of brood parasites and their hosts in particular.}, }
@article {pmid24064407, year = {2014}, author = {Motomura, H and Hatano, T and Kobayashi, R and Sakahara, D and Fujii, N and Mineo, M}, title = {Dynamic eye socket reconstruction after extended total maxillectomy using temporalis transfer.}, journal = {Journal of plastic, reconstructive &amp; aesthetic surgery : JPRAS}, volume = {67}, number = {3}, pages = {e78-80}, doi = {10.1016/j.bjps.2013.08.021}, pmid = {24064407}, issn = {1878-0539}, mesh = {Aged ; Bone Substitutes/*therapeutic use ; Eyelids/physiopathology ; Humans ; Male ; Maxillary Neoplasms/*surgery ; Movement ; Muscle, Skeletal/*transplantation ; Orbit/*surgery ; Plastic Surgery Procedures/*methods ; Surgical Flaps ; }, abstract = {The functional and cosmetic results of the reconstructive surgery after extended total maxillectomy greatly depend on the quality of the orbital reconstruction. In order to achieve good orbital reconstruction, we developed the dynamic eye socket reconstruction using temporalis transfer. In this report, I will present the details of the technique, including tips and innovations for dynamic eye socket reconstruction.Two patients (2 males, aged 70 and 72 years old) who underwent extensive resection of midfacial tumours were treated with dynamic eye socket reconstruction using temporalis transfer. The follow up period was 16 and 102 months. No acute complications were observed. The movements of the upper/lower eyelids including crow's feet were observed and a good shape in the reconstructed medial/lateral canthal area was maintained in all patients.This procedure provides both the eyelids with movement and also a good shape in the reconstructed medial/lateral canthal region. Furthermore, it contributes to achieving satisfactory functional and cosmetic results in the orbital reconstruction.}, }
@article {pmid24062873, year = {2013}, author = {Jandhyala, R}, title = {Impact of botulinum toxin a on the quality of life of subjects following treatment of facial lines.}, journal = {The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology}, volume = {6}, number = {9}, pages = {41-45}, pmid = {24062873}, issn = {1941-2789}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate quality of life and its correlation to patient satisfaction before and after treatment with botulinum toxin A.<br><br>METHODS: Quality of life was assessed using the Schedule for the Evaluation of Individual Quality of Life Direct-Weighting tool. Patients identified the five areas of their life of the greatest importance to them, weighted the areas as to their relative importance, and rated their status in each area on a visual scale before treatment (old cues) and 28 days later (using both old cues and newly defined and weighted cues). At both visits, patients also rated their overall quality of life using a visual analogue scale. Patient satisfaction with their appearance was measured using a 10-point scale in conjunction with standardized photographs taken at each visit.<br><br>RESULTS: Fifty-three patients (median age 39.5 years; 87% women) with moderate-to-severe wrinkles of the glabella, forehead, or crow's feet were enrolled. Treatment with incobotulinumtoxinA consistently resulted in a significant improvement in quality of life according to Schedule for the Evaluation of Individual Quality of Life Direct-Weighting tool index scores (old cues, P=0.0006; new cues P=0.0235) and patient assessment of their overall quality of life (P<0.0001 for both old and new cues). Family, work, finance, relationships, and health were the five most frequently identified cues at each assessment. No correlation between quality of life and satisfaction scores was found, although both were significantly increased after treatment.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These results support the contention that quality of life is significantly improved following botulinum toxin A treatment and that consideration should be given to incorporating the measurement of quality of life as an outcome measure following botulinum toxin A treatment, especially as satisfaction does not correlate to quality of life.}, }
@article {pmid24060246, year = {2014}, author = {Ujfalussy, DJ and Miklósi, &#xc1; and Bugnyar, T and Kotrschal, K}, title = {Role of mental representations in quantity judgments by jackdaws (Corvus monedula).}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {128}, number = {1}, pages = {11-20}, doi = {10.1037/a0034063}, pmid = {24060246}, issn = {1939-2087}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Discrimination, Psychological/*physiology ; Judgment/*physiology ; *Mathematical Concepts ; }, abstract = {The representation of quantity by the preverbal or nonverbal mind is a question of considerable interest in the study of cognition, as it should be generally adaptive to most animals to be able to distinguish quantity. We already know that some primate species and human infants represent and enumerate objects in similar ways. Considerable data also exist concerning such abilities in birds. Our aim in this study has been to find out whether jackdaws (Corvus monedula) are capable of performing relative quantity judgments based on mental representations, and if so, what are the limiting factors to their abilities. In our setting the birds were required to make a choice between two visibly and sequentially placed set of food items which, at the moment of choice were not visible to the subjects. We investigated all the number combinations between 1 and 5. Our results show that jackdaws are able to perform relative quantity judgments successfully, even when temporal cues are controlled for, whereas their performance declines in the direction of larger set size (numerical size effect), and when the difference between the two arrays decreases (numerical distance and ratio effect). These signatures are usually interpreted as evidence for the "accumulator" model of mental representation of quantity. Our control results suggest that jackdaws do not use temporal cues, but may well use total volume as basis for discrimination, perhaps among other attributes (choice may be based on multiple cues).}, }
@article {pmid24058905, year = {2013}, author = {Maeda, I and Siddiki, MS and Nozawa-Takeda, T and Tsukahara, N and Tani, Y and Naito, T and Sugita, S}, title = {Population abundance of potentially pathogenic organisms in intestinal microbiome of jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) shown with 16S rRNA gene-based microbial community analysis.}, journal = {BioMed research international}, volume = {2013}, number = {}, pages = {438956}, pmid = {24058905}, issn = {2314-6141}, mesh = {Animals ; Bacteria/classification/*genetics ; Cluster Analysis ; Crows/*microbiology ; DNA/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Disease Vectors ; Humans ; Intestines/*microbiology ; Microbiota/*genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/*genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Temperature ; }, abstract = {Jungle Crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) prefer human habitats because of their versatility in feeding accompanied with human food consumption. Therefore, it is important from a public health viewpoint to characterize their intestinal microbiota. However, no studies have been involved in molecular characterization of the microbiota based on huge and reliable number of data acquisition. In this study, 16S rRNA gene-based microbial community analysis coupled with the next-generation DNA sequencing techniques was applied to the taxonomic classification of intestinal microbiome for three jungle crows. Clustering of the reads into 130 operational taxonomic units showed that at least 70% of analyzed sequences for each crow were highly homologous to Eimeria sp., which belongs to the protozoan phylum Apicomplexa. The microbiotas of three crows also contained potentially pathogenic bacteria with significant percentages, such as the genera Campylobacter and Brachyspira. Thus, the profiling of a large number of 16S rRNA gene sequences in crow intestinal microbiomes revealed the high-frequency existence or vestige of potentially pathogenic microorganisms.}, }
@article {pmid24056832, year = {2013}, author = {Savoja, V and Carzedda, F and Falcone, I and De Carolis, A and Comparelli, A and Nicolò, G and Kotzalidis, GD and Emili, E and Comazzetto, C and Angelone, M and Del Casale, A and Ducci, G and Tatarelli, R and Girardi, P}, title = {[Basic symptoms and neurocognition: preliminary comparison of first-episode psychosis vs multi-episode long-term illness].}, journal = {Rivista di psichiatria}, volume = {48}, number = {4}, pages = {328-334}, doi = {10.1708/1319.14630}, pmid = {24056832}, issn = {2038-2502}, mesh = {Acute Disease ; Adolescent ; Adult ; Chronic Disease ; *Cognition ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Humans ; Inpatients ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Outpatients ; Psychotic Disorders/complications/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Schizophrenia/complications/*diagnosis ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Schizophrenia is preceded by basic symptoms which may persist after long time and include subjective cognitive impairment. Furthermore, it is characterised by cognitive deficits that may deteriorate with the progression of illness. To examine the relationship between neurocognition and basic symptoms along the course of schizophrenia, we compared the cognitive performance and the basic symptoms of one population with first episode psychosis (FEP) and one with a chronic, multi-episode course (MEP).<br><br>METHODS: We tested 8 FEP (5 male) and 7 MEP (7 male) in- and outpatients, for basic symptoms with the Schizophrenia Proneness Instrument-Adult version (SPI-A) and for neurocognition with Raven's Color Progressive Matrices (CPM), Rey-Osterrieth's complex figure (Rey), Corsi's and Buschke-Fuld tests, the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), the Stroop test, and the Trail Making Test (TMT).<br><br>RESULTS: FEP patients did not differ from MEP patients as for SPI-A scores. MEP patients were significantly more impaired on several subtests of Buschke-Fuld, the Rey, and the WCST with respect to FEP. Impairment on the cognitive subscale of the SPI-A correlated with non-perseverative WCST errors, and on the self subscale of the SPI-A with impaired performance on the Buschke-Fuld. Further, in MEP, impairment on the body subscale of the SPI-A correlated inversely with number of categories completed of the WCST.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Basic symptoms persist throughout the phases of schizophrenia and are relatively independent of cognitive performance. A chronic, multi-episode course is associated with increased cognitive impairment in schizophrenia.}, }
@article {pmid24044742, year = {2014}, author = {Hamner, S and Broadaway, SC and Berg, E and Stettner, S and Pyle, BH and Big Man, N and Old Elk, J and Eggers, MJ and Doyle, J and Kindness, L and Good Luck, B and Ford, TE and Camper, AC}, title = {Detection and source tracking of Escherichia coli, harboring intimin and Shiga toxin genes, isolated from the Little Bighorn River, Montana.}, journal = {International journal of environmental health research}, volume = {24}, number = {4}, pages = {341-362}, doi = {10.1080/09603123.2013.835030}, pmid = {24044742}, issn = {1369-1619}, mesh = {Adhesins, Bacterial/*genetics ; Animals ; Cattle ; Disease Reservoirs/*microbiology ; Environmental Monitoring ; Escherichia coli/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity ; Escherichia coli Proteins/*genetics ; Manure/microbiology ; Montana ; Rivers/*microbiology ; Shiga Toxins/*genetics ; Virulence/genetics ; Water Pollutants/*analysis ; }, abstract = {The Little Bighorn River flows through the Crow Indian Reservation in Montana. In 2008, Escherichia coli concentrations as high as 7179 MPN/100 ml were detected in the river at the Crow Agency Water Treatment Plant intake site. During 2008, 2009, and 2012, 10 different serotypes of E. coli, including O157:H7, harboring both intimin and Shiga toxin genes were isolated from a popular swim site of the Little Bighorn River in Crow Agency. As part of a microbial source tracking study, E. coli strains were isolated from river samples as well as from manure collected from a large cattle feeding operation in the upper Little Bighorn River watershed; 23% of 167 isolates of E. coli obtained from the manure tested positive for the intimin gene. Among these manure isolates, 19 were identified as O156:H8, matching the serotype of an isolate collected from a river sampling site close to the cattle feeding area.}, }
@article {pmid24016767, year = {2013}, author = {Sandjaja,  and Poh, BK and Rojroonwasinkul, N and Le Nyugen, BK and Budiman, B and Ng, LO and Soonthorndhada, K and Xuyen, HT and Deurenberg, P and Parikh, P and , }, title = {Relationship between anthropometric indicators and cognitive performance in Southeast Asian school-aged children.}, journal = {The British journal of nutrition}, volume = {110 Suppl 3}, number = {}, pages = {S57-64}, doi = {10.1017/S0007114513002079}, pmid = {24016767}, issn = {1475-2662}, mesh = {*Anthropometry ; Body Mass Index ; Child ; Child Development ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Growth Disorders/epidemiology ; Humans ; Indonesia/epidemiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Malaysia/epidemiology ; Male ; Malnutrition/epidemiology/physiopathology ; *Nutritional Status ; Rural Population ; Students ; Thailand/epidemiology ; Thinness/epidemiology ; Urban Population ; Vietnam/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Nutrition is an important factor in mental development and, as a consequence, in cognitive performance. Malnutrition is reflected in children's weight, height and BMI curves. The present cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the association between anthropometric indices and cognitive performance in 6746 school-aged children (aged 6-12 years) of four Southeast Asian countries: Indonesia; Malaysia; Thailand; Vietnam. Cognitive performance (non-verbal intelligence quotient (IQ)) was measured using Raven's Progressive Matrices test or Test of Non-Verbal Intelligence, third edition (TONI-3). Height-for-age z-scores (HAZ), weight-for-age z-scores (WAZ) and BMI-for-age z-scores (BAZ) were used as anthropometric nutritional status indices. Data were weighted using age, sex and urban/rural weight factors to resemble the total primary school-aged population per country. Overall, 21% of the children in the four countries were underweight and 19% were stunted. Children with low WAZ were 3·5 times more likely to have a non-verbal IQ < 89 (OR 3·53 and 95% CI 3·52, 3·54). The chance of having a non-verbal IQ < 89 was also doubled with low BAZ and HAZ. In contrast, except for severe obesity, the relationship between high BAZ and IQ was less clear and differed per country. The odds of having non-verbal IQ levels < 89 also increased with severe obesity. In conclusion, undernourishment and non-verbal IQ are significantly associated in 6-12-year-old children. Effective strategies to improve nutrition in preschoolers and school-aged children can have a pronounced effect on cognition and, in the longer term, help in positively contributing to individual and national development.}, }
@article {pmid24033987, year = {2014}, author = {Dean, LG and Vale, GL and Laland, KN and Flynn, E and Kendal, RL}, title = {Human cumulative culture: a comparative perspective.}, journal = {Biological reviews of the Cambridge Philosophical Society}, volume = {89}, number = {2}, pages = {284-301}, doi = {10.1111/brv.12053}, pmid = {24033987}, issn = {1469-185X}, mesh = {*Cultural Characteristics ; *Cultural Diversity ; *Cultural Evolution ; Humans ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Many animals exhibit social learning and behavioural traditions, but human culture exhibits unparalleled complexity and diversity, and is unambiguously cumulative in character. These similarities and differences have spawned a debate over whether animal traditions and human culture are reliant on homologous or analogous psychological processes. Human cumulative culture combines high-fidelity transmission of cultural knowledge with beneficial modifications to generate a 'ratcheting' in technological complexity, leading to the development of traits far more complex than one individual could invent alone. Claims have been made for cumulative culture in several species of animals, including chimpanzees, orangutans and New Caledonian crows, but these remain contentious. Whilst initial work on the topic of cumulative culture was largely theoretical, employing mathematical methods developed by population biologists, in recent years researchers from a wide range of disciplines, including psychology, biology, economics, biological anthropology, linguistics and archaeology, have turned their attention to the experimental investigation of cumulative culture. We review this literature, highlighting advances made in understanding the underlying processes of cumulative culture and emphasising areas of agreement and disagreement amongst investigators in separate fields.}, }
@article {pmid24033371, year = {2014}, author = {Dwyer, JF and Harness, RE and Donohue, K}, title = {Predictive model of avian electrocution risk on overhead power lines.}, journal = {Conservation biology : the journal of the Society for Conservation Biology}, volume = {28}, number = {1}, pages = {159-168}, doi = {10.1111/cobi.12145}, pmid = {24033371}, issn = {1523-1739}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*injuries ; California/epidemiology ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; Electric Injuries/epidemiology/etiology/*veterinary ; Electricity ; Logistic Models ; *Models, Biological ; Seasons ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Electrocution on overhead power structures negatively affects avian populations in diverse ecosystems worldwide, contributes to the endangerment of raptor populations in Europe and Africa, and is a major driver of legal action against electric utilities in North America. We investigated factors associated with avian electrocutions so poles that are likely to electrocute a bird can be identified and retrofitted prior to causing avian mortality. We used historical data from southern California to identify patterns of avian electrocution by voltage, month, and year to identify species most often killed by electrocution in our study area and to develop a predictive model that compared poles where an avian electrocution was known to have occurred (electrocution poles) with poles where no known electrocution occurred (comparison poles). We chose variables that could be quantified by personnel with little training in ornithology or electric systems. Electrocutions were more common at distribution voltages (≤ 33 kV) and during breeding seasons and were more commonly reported after a retrofitting program began. Red-tailed Hawks (Buteo jamaicensis) (n = 265) and American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) (n = 258) were the most commonly electrocuted species. In the predictive model, 4 of 14 candidate variables were required to distinguish electrocution poles from comparison poles: number of jumpers (short wires connecting energized equipment), number of primary conductors, presence of grounding, and presence of unforested unpaved areas as the dominant nearby land cover. When tested against a sample of poles not used to build the model, our model distributed poles relatively normally across electrocution-risk values and identified the average risk as higher for electrocution poles relative to comparison poles. Our model can be used to reduce avian electrocutions through proactive identification and targeting of high-risk poles for retrofitting.}, }
@article {pmid24032453, year = {2014}, author = {Peric, S and Sreckov, M and Basta, I and Lavrnic, D and Vujnic, M and Marjanovic, I and Rakocevic Stojanovic, V}, title = {Dependent and paranoid personality patterns in myotonic dystrophy type 1.}, journal = {Acta neurologica Scandinavica}, volume = {129}, number = {4}, pages = {219-225}, doi = {10.1111/ane.12173}, pmid = {24032453}, issn = {1600-0404}, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Dependency, Psychological ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Myotonic Dystrophy/*complications/*psychology ; Paranoid Personality Disorder/*etiology ; Personality Inventory ; Quality of Life ; Severity of Illness Index ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To analyze frequency and type of personality pattern in patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1), to correlate these findings with clinical data, and to assess its possible influence on quality of life (QoL).<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study comprised 62 patients with DM1. Following measures were used: Muscular Impairment Rating Scale, Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM), Millon Multiaxial Clinical Inventory I (MMCI), SF-36, and Individualized Neuromuscular Quality of Life (INQoL) questionnaires.<br><br>RESULTS: The presence of at least one pathological personality trait with score above 85 on MMCI was found in 47 (75.8%) patients. After clinical interview, 36 (58.1%) subjects had significant personality impairment. The most common personality trait in our cohort of patients was dependent found in 51.6% of patients, followed by paranoid (38.7%). Higher score on dependent personality scale correlated with lower education (rho = -0.251, P = 0.049). Dependent personality scores significantly differed between patients with physical and intellectual work (93.1 &#xb1; 8.9 vs 66.9 &#xb1; 31.7, P = 0.011). Paranoid score was higher in patients with lower education (rho = -0.293, P = 0.021), lower score on RSPM test (rho = -0.398, P = 0.004) and larger number of CTG repeats (rho = 0.254, P = 0.046). Presence of dependent personality was not in association with QoL scores (P > 0.05). On the other hand, patients with paranoid personality trait had worse QoL than those without it (P < 0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Almost 60% of our patients with DM1 had clinically significant personality impairment, with dependent and paranoid personality patterns being the most common. Paranoid personality may decrease QoL in these patients, which gives us new opportunities for symptomatic therapy in DM1.}, }
@article {pmid24027784, year = {2013}, author = {Zentall, TR}, title = {Animals represent the past and the future.}, journal = {Evolutionary psychology : an international journal of evolutionary approaches to psychology and behavior}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {573-590}, pmid = {24027784}, issn = {1474-7049}, support = {R01 HD060996/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; HD060996/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Memory, Episodic ; *Mental Recall ; *Thinking ; }, abstract = {It has been proposed by some that only humans have the ability to mentally travel back in time (i.e., have episodic memory) and forward in time (i.e., have the ability to simulate the future). However, there is evidence from a variety of nonhuman animals (e.g., primates, dolphins, scrub jays, rats, and pigeons) that they have some ability to recover personal memories of what-where-when an event occurred (an earlier requirement of the ability to recover an episodic memory) and answer unexpected questions (another requirement to distinguish between semantic and episodic memory). Also, perhaps more critically, according to Tulving’s more recent definition of mental time-travel, several animals (primates and scrub jays) have been shown to be able to pass the spoon test. That is, they are able to plan for the future. Thus, although humans show an advanced ability to mentally travel backward and forward in time, there is growing evidence that nonhuman animals have some of this capacity as well.}, }
@article {pmid24019616, year = {2013}, author = {Sarma, M}, title = {Measuring opportunity for natural selection: Adaptation among two linguistically cognate tribes inhabiting two eco-situations of North-East India.}, journal = {Indian journal of human genetics}, volume = {19}, number = {2}, pages = {159-164}, pmid = {24019616}, issn = {0971-6866}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Numerous literature on the migration of Mishings point out to the fact that the Mishing and the Minyong are two culturally and linguistically cognate tribes that co-existed in the same ecology in the hills of Arunachal Pradesh. The Mishing tribe after migration, now inhabits flood-prone areas of Brahmaputra valley of Assam.<br><br>AIM: THE STUDY AIMS TO MEASURE THE ADAPTATION PROCESS OF THESE TWO COGNATE TRIBES INHABITING TWO DIFFERENT ECOLOGIES AT PRESENT: Hills and plains by calculating the index of selection intensity by Crow's and Johnston and Kensinger's formulae.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: The reproductive histories of 77 Mishing mothers of completed fertility inhabiting a flood affected village of Assam and 74 Minyong mothers inhabiting a hilly village of Arunachal Pradesh are selected.<br><br>RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The Minyongs show higher average fertility than the Mishings. The proportion of embryonic death is higher, and child death is lower among the Mishings (0.1661; 0.1623) than the Minyongs (0.1319; 0.2238). The index of selection due to mortality component is contributing more toward the total index of selection in both the tribes.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The contribution of mortality component is sizeable to the total selection like many other tribes of North-East India. Higher proportion of embryonic deaths among the Mishings infers that the causes are mostly biological whereas, the higher proportion of child deaths among the Minyongs infers that the causes are mostly socio-cultural.}, }
@article {pmid24010226, year = {2013}, author = {Fantus, RJ}, title = {NTDB data points: As the crow flies.}, journal = {Bulletin of the American College of Surgeons}, volume = {98}, number = {7}, pages = {65-66}, pmid = {24010226}, issn = {0002-8045}, mesh = {Access to Information ; Aircraft ; *Databases, Factual ; General Surgery ; Humans ; Transportation of Patients/*methods ; United States ; *Wounds and Injuries ; }, }
@article {pmid23986281, year = {2013}, author = {Vanin, S and Zanotti, E and Gibelli, D and Taborelli, A and Andreola, S and Cattaneo, C}, title = {Decomposition and entomological colonization of charred bodies - a pilot study.}, journal = {Croatian medical journal}, volume = {54}, number = {4}, pages = {387-393}, pmid = {23986281}, issn = {1332-8166}, mesh = {Animals ; Autopsy ; Burns/*parasitology ; Coleoptera/*physiology ; Diptera/*physiology ; *Forensic Pathology ; Larva/physiology ; Pilot Projects ; *Postmortem Changes ; Seasons ; Sus scrofa/*parasitology ; }, abstract = {AIM: To use forensic entomological approach to estimate the post mortem interval (PMI) in burnt remains.<br><br>METHODS: Two experiments were performed in a field in the outskirts of Milan, in winter and summer 2007. Four 60-kg pigs were used: two for each experiment. One pig carcass was burnt until it reached the level 2-3 of the Glassman-Crow scale and the not-burnt carcass was used as a control. In order to describe the decomposition process and to collect the data useful for minimum PMI estimation, macroscopic, histological, and entomological analyses were performed.<br><br>RESULTS: In the winter part of the experiment, the first insect activity on the burnt carcass began in the third week (Calliphora vomitoria) and at the beginning of the fourth week an increase in the number of species was observed. In the summer part, adult flies and first instar maggots (Phormia regina) appeared a few minutes/hours after the carcass exposure. Both in winter and summer, flies belonging to the first colonization wave (Calliphoridae) appeared on burnt and control pigs at the same time, whereas other species (Diptera and Coleoptera) appeared earlier on burnt pigs.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In forensic practice, burnt bodies are among the most neglected fields of entomological research, since they are supposed to be an inadequate substratum for insect colonization. Entomological approach for PMI estimation proved to be useful, although further studies on larger samples are needed.}, }
@article {pmid23981295, year = {2013}, author = {Rao, KV and Baddeley, A}, title = {Raven's matrices and working memory: a dual-task approach.}, journal = {Quarterly journal of experimental psychology (2006)}, volume = {66}, number = {10}, pages = {1881-1887}, doi = {10.1080/17470218.2013.828314}, pmid = {23981295}, issn = {1747-0226}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; *Psychometrics ; Students ; Universities ; }, abstract = {Raven's Matrices Test was developed as a "pure" measure of Spearman's concept of general intelligence, g. Subsequent research has attempted to specify the processes underpinning performance, some relating it to the concept of working memory and proposing a crucial role for the central executive, with the nature of other components currently unclear. Up to this point, virtually all work has been based on correlational analysis of number of correct solutions, sometimes related to possible strategies. We explore the application to this problem of the concurrent task methodology used widely in developing the concept of multicomponent working memory. Participants attempted to solve problems from the matrices under baseline conditions, or accompanied by backward counting or verbal repetition tasks, assumed to disrupt the central executive and phonological loop components of working memory, respectively. As in other uses of this method, number of items correct showed little effect, while solution time measures gave very clear evidence of an important role for the central executive, but no evidence for phonological loop involvement. We conclude that this and related concurrent task techniques hold considerable promise for the analysis of Raven's matrices and potentially for other established psychometric tests.}, }
@article {pmid23979678, year = {2014}, author = {Aldredge, RA and Boughton, RK and Rensel, MA and Schoech, SJ and Bowman, R}, title = {Hatching asynchrony that maintains egg viability also reduces brood reduction in a subtropical bird.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {174}, number = {1}, pages = {77-85}, pmid = {23979678}, issn = {1432-1939}, mesh = {Animals ; Breeding ; *Clutch Size ; Environment ; Female ; Ovum/*physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Reproduction ; }, abstract = {In birds, hatching failure is pervasive and incurs an energetic and reproductive cost to breeding individuals. The egg viability hypothesis posits that exposure to warm temperatures prior to incubation decreases viability of early laid eggs and predicts that females in warm environments minimize hatching failure by beginning incubation earlier in the laying period, laying smaller clutches, or both. However, beginning incubation prior to clutch completion may incur a cost by increasing hatching asynchrony and possibly brood reduction. We examined whether Florida scrub jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) began incubation earlier relative to clutch completion when laying larger clutches or when ambient temperatures increased, and whether variation in incubation onset influenced subsequent patterns of hatching asynchrony and brood reduction. We compared these patterns between a suburban and wildland site because site-specific differences in hatching failure match a priori predictions of the egg viability hypothesis. Females at both sites began incubation earlier relative to clutch completion when laying larger clutches and as ambient temperatures increased. Incubation onset was correlated with patterns of hatching asynchrony at both sites; however, brood reduction increased only in the suburbs, where nestling food is limiting, and only during the late nestling period. Hatching asynchrony may be an unintended consequence of beginning incubation early to minimize hatching failure of early laid eggs. Food limitation in the suburbs appears to result in increased brood reduction in large clutches that hatch asynchronously. Therefore, site-specific rates of brood reduction may be a consequence of asynchronous hatching patterns that result from parental effort to minimize hatching failure in first-laid eggs. This illustrates how anthropogenic change, such as urbanization, can lead to loss of fitness when animals use behavioral strategies intended to maximize fitness in natural landscapes.}, }
@article {pmid23979456, year = {2013}, author = {Striedter, GF}, title = {Bird brains and tool use: beyond instrumental conditioning.}, journal = {Brain, behavior and evolution}, volume = {82}, number = {1}, pages = {55-67}, doi = {10.1159/000352003}, pmid = {23979456}, issn = {1421-9743}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology ; *Conditioning, Operant ; Mind-Body Relations, Metaphysical ; *Nerve Net ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Few displays of complex cognition are as intriguing as nonhuman tool use. Long thought to be unique to humans, evidence for tool use and manufacture has now been gathered in chimpanzees, dolphins, and elephants. Outside of mammals, tool use is most common in birds, especially in corvids and parrots. The present paper reviews the evidence for avian tool use, both in the wild and in laboratory settings. It also places this behavioral evidence in the context of longstanding debates about the kinds of mental processes nonhumans can perform. Descartes argued that animals are unable to think because they are soulless machines, incapable of flexible behavior. Later, as human machines became more sophisticated and psychologists discovered classical and instrumental conditioning, skepticism about animal thinking decreased. However, behaviors that involve more than simple conditioning continued to elicit skepticism, especially among behaviorists. Nonetheless, as reviewed here, strong behavioral data now indicate that tool use in some birds cannot be explained as resulting entirely from instrumental conditioning. The neural substrates of tool use in birds remain unclear, but the available data point mainly to the caudolateral nidopallium, which shares both functional and structural features with the mammalian prefrontal cortex. As more data on the neural mechanisms of complex cognition in birds accrue, skepticism about those mental capacities should continue to wane.}, }
@article {pmid23978940, year = {2014}, author = {Tsukahara, N and Tani, Y and Kikuchi, H and Sugita, S}, title = {Light transmission of the ocular media in birds and mammals.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {76}, number = {1}, pages = {93-95}, pmid = {23978940}, issn = {1347-7439}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Cornea/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Female ; Lens, Crystalline/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Male ; Mammals/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Spectrophotometry, Ultraviolet/veterinary ; *Ultraviolet Rays ; Vitreous Body/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {Differences in the ultraviolet (UV) cutoff of ocular media between birds and mammals have been revealed by spectrophotometric measurements of the transmission of light wavelengths by the cornea, lens and vitreous body in chickens, crows, quails, rats, rabbits and pigs. The light transmission values of the cornea were shown to be above 50% for wavelengths of 330-800 nm in birds, 300-800 nm in rat and 310-800 nm in mammals except for rat. For the lens, the light transmission values were shown to be above 50% for wavelengths of 320-800 nm in birds and rat and 390-800 nm in mammals except for rat. Thus, among the ocular media, the cornea in birds and the lens in mammals except for rat may play a role as a major UV cutoff filter.}, }
@article {pmid23972563, year = {2013}, author = {Maire, N and Abane, L and Kempf, JF and Clavert, P and , }, title = {Long thoracic nerve release for scapular winging: clinical study of a continuous series of eight patients.}, journal = {Orthopaedics &amp; traumatology, surgery &amp; research : OTSR}, volume = {99}, number = {6 Suppl}, pages = {S329-35}, doi = {10.1016/j.otsr.2013.07.010}, pmid = {23972563}, issn = {1877-0568}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Electromyography ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Muscle, Skeletal/*innervation ; Neurosurgical Procedures/*methods ; Paralysis/physiopathology/*surgery ; Scapula/*innervation ; Thoracic Nerves/*surgery ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Scapular winging secondary to serratus anterior muscle palsy is a rare pathology. It is usually due to a lesion in the thoracic part of the long thoracic nerve following violent upper-limb stretching with compression on the nerve by the anterior branch of thoracodorsal artery at the "crow's foot landmark" where the artery crosses in front of the nerve. Scapular winging causes upper-limb pain, fatigability or impotence. Diagnosis is clinical and management initially conservative. When functional treatment by physiotherapy fails to bring recovery within 6 months and electromyography (EMG) shows increased distal latencies, neurolysis may be suggested. Muscle transfer and scapula-thoracic arthrodesis are considered as palliative treatments. We report a single-surgeon experience of nine open neurolyses of the thoracic part of the long thoracic nerve in eight patients. At 6 months' follow-up, no patients showed continuing signs of winged scapula. Control EMG showed significant reduction in distal latency; Constant scores showed improvement, and VAS-assessed pain was considerably reduced. Neurolysis would thus seem to be the first-line surgical attitude of choice in case of compression confirmed on EMG. The present results would need to be confirmed in larger studies with longer follow-up, but this is made difficult by the rarity of this pathology.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.}, }
@article {pmid23972562, year = {2013}, author = {Tomic, S and Vladetic, M and Solic, K and Misevic, S and Soldo, SB}, title = {The applause sign in Parkinson's disease patients is related to dysexecutive syndrome.}, journal = {Journal of clinical neuroscience : official journal of the Neurosurgical Society of Australasia}, volume = {20}, number = {12}, pages = {1734-1736}, doi = {10.1016/j.jocn.2013.02.024}, pmid = {23972562}, issn = {1532-2653}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cognition Disorders/complications/*diagnosis/psychology ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/complications/*diagnosis/psychology ; }, abstract = {Recent publications report that a positive applause sign is not only present in patients with neurodegenerative diseases where the subcortical structures are affected but also in patients with cortical dementia. The nature of this sign remains unknown. This study aimed to determine the frequency of the applause sign and its correlation with cognitive impairment in patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease. The study included 30 non-depressed patients diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson's disease. Study patients underwent the Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale part III, Dementia Rating Scale (DRS), Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, and Mill Hill Vocabulary tests. Statistical analysis was performed by use of the parametric Student's t-test, nonparametric Mann-Whitney U test and Fisher's exact test, with the level of significance set at p<0.05. Negative applause sign was recorded in 66.7% and positive applause sign in 33.3% of patients. There were no between-group differences according to age, disease duration, or severity of motor symptoms. The positive applause sign group had significantly lower scores on the initiation/perseveration subscale of the DRS and a significantly higher frequency of scores below the cut-off score on the conceptualization and construction subscales of the DRS. The applause sign appears to be part of a broader dysexecutive syndrome in idiopathic Parkinson's disease.}, }
@article {pmid23971222, year = {2013}, author = {Swenson, J and Bradley, GA}, title = {Suspected cholecalciferol rodenticide toxicosis in avian species at a zoological institution.}, journal = {Journal of avian medicine and surgery}, volume = {27}, number = {2}, pages = {136-147}, doi = {10.1647/2011-062}, pmid = {23971222}, issn = {1082-6742}, mesh = {Animals ; *Animals, Zoo ; Bird Diseases/*chemically induced/pathology ; Birds ; Cholecalciferol/*toxicity ; Female ; Male ; Rodenticides/*poisoning/toxicity ; }, abstract = {Over a 2-month period, individual birds belonging to species in multiple avian families, including Bucerotidae, Sturnidae, Columbidae, Corvidae, and Anatidae, were presented to the Animal Care Center at the Phoenix Zoo for emergency medical care. Common clinical findings were subdued behavior, weight loss, and an inability to fly. Biochemical abnormalities commonly included high calcium and uric acid concentrations and high to high-normal phosphorus concentrations. In cases in which necropsies were done, mineralization of organs often was present, frequently of the kidneys and cardiovascular system. Because of the high calcium and phosphorus concentrations, mineralization of tissues, cases representing multiple avian species, and the recent addition of rodent bait boxes containing cholecalciferol to the zoo's pest control program, a presumptive diagnosis of cholecalciferol toxicosis was made. Treatment most commonly consisted of daily fluid diuresis. These cases demonstrate that, although cholecalciferol is considered unlikely to cause relay toxicosis, primary toxicosis still should be considered in cases with sudden onset of nonspecific signs when exposure to cholecalciferol was possible.}, }
@article {pmid23970442, year = {2013}, author = {Schoech, SJ and Bowman, R and Hahn, TP and Goymann, W and Schwabl, I and Bridge, ES}, title = {The effects of low levels of light at night upon the endocrine physiology of western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica).}, journal = {Journal of experimental zoology. Part A, Ecological genetics and physiology}, volume = {319}, number = {9}, pages = {527-538}, doi = {10.1002/jez.1816}, pmid = {23970442}, issn = {1932-5231}, mesh = {Animals ; Corticosterone/blood ; Ecosystem ; Female ; *Light ; Male ; Melatonin/blood ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Photoperiod ; Reproduction/*physiology ; Testosterone/blood ; }, abstract = {Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) in the suburbs breed earlier than jays in native habitat. Amongst the possible factors that influence this advance (e.g., food availability, microclimate, predator regime, etc.), is exposure to artificial lights at night (LAN). LAN could stimulate the reproductive axis of the suburban jays. Alternatively, LAN could inhibit pineal melatonin (MEL), thus removing its inhibitory influence on the reproductive axis. Because Florida scrub-jays are a threatened species, we used western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) to investigate the effects of LAN upon reproductive hormones and melatonin. Jays were held under conditions in which the dark-phase of the light:dark cycle was without illumination and then under low levels of LAN. Under both conditions, birds were exposed first to short-days (9.5L:14.5D) that were gradually increased to long-days (14.5L:9.5D). At various times, blood samples were collected during the light part of the cycle to measure reproductive hormones (luteinizing hormone, LH; testosterone, T; and estradiol, E2). Similarly, samples to assess melatonin were collected during the dark. In males, LAN caused a depression in LH levels and levels were ∼4× greater under long- than short-days. In females, there was no effect of LAN or photoperiod upon LH. LAN resulted in depressed T levels in females, although there was no effect on T in males. E2 levels in both sexes were lower under LAN than under an unlighted dark-phase. Paradoxically, MEL was higher in jays under LAN, and under long-days. MEL did not differ by sex. LAN disrupted the extraordinarily strong correlation between T and E2 that existed under unlighted nocturnal conditions. Overall, our findings fail to support the hypothesis that LAN stimulates the reproductive axis. Rather, the data demonstrate that LAN tends to inhibit reproductive hormone secretion, although not in a consistent fashion between the sexes.}, }
@article {pmid23949938, year = {2013}, author = {Russo, A and Zappia, M and Reginelli, A and Carfora, M and D'Agosto, GF and La Porta, M and Genovese, EA and Fonio, P}, title = {Ankle impingement: a review of multimodality imaging approach.}, journal = {Musculoskeletal surgery}, volume = {97 Suppl 2}, number = {}, pages = {S161-8}, pmid = {23949938}, issn = {2035-5114}, mesh = {Ankle Injuries/*diagnosis/therapy ; *Arthroscopy ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Humans ; *Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Pain/etiology ; Syndrome ; Talus/injuries/*pathology ; Tibia/*pathology ; *Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {Ankle impingement is defined as entrapment of an anatomic structure that leads to pain and decreased range of motion of the ankle and can be classified as either soft tissue or osseous (Bassett et al. in J Bone Joint Surg Am 72:55-59, 1990). The impingement syndromes of the ankle are a group of painful disorders that limit full range of movement. Symptoms are due to compression of soft-tissues or osseous structures during particular movements (Ogilvie-Harris et al. in Arthroscopy 13:564-574, 1997). Osseous impingement can result from spur formation along the anterior margin of the distal tibia and talus or as a result of a prominent posterolateral talar process, the os trigonum. Soft-tissue impingement usually results from scarring and fibrosis associated with synovial, capsular, or ligamentous injury. Soft-tissue impingement most often occurs in the anterolateral gutter, the medial ankle, or in the region of the syndesmosis (Van den Bekerom and Raven in Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 15:465-471, 2007). The main impingement syndromes are anterolateral, anterior, anteromedial, posterior, and posteromedial impingement. These conditions arise from initial ankle injuries, which, in the subacute or chronic situation, lead to development of abnormal osseous and soft-tissue thickening within the ankle joint. The relative contributions of the osseous and soft-tissue abnormalities are variable, but whatever component is dominant there is physical impingement and painful limitation of ankle movement. Conventional radiography is usually the first imaging technique performer and allows assessment of any potential bone abnormality, particularly in anterior and posterior impingement. Computed tomography (CT) and isotope bone scanning have been largely superseded by magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. MR imaging can demonstrate osseous and soft-tissue edema in anterior or posterior impingement. MR imaging is the most useful imaging modality in evaluating suspected soft-tissue impingement or in excluding other ankle pathology such as an osteochondral lesion of the talus. MR imaging can reveal evidence of previous ligamentous injury and also can demonstrate thickened synovium, fibrosis, or adjacent reactive soft-tissue edema. Studies of conventional MR imaging have produced conflicting sensitivities and specificities in assessment of anterolateral impingement. CT and MR arthrographic techniques allow the most accurate assessment of the capsular recesses, albeit with important limitations in diagnosis of clinical impingement syndromes. In the majority of cases, ankle impingement is treated with conservative measures, with surgical debridement via arthroscopy or an open procedure reserved for patients who have refractory symptoms. In this article, we describe the clinical and potential imaging features, for the four main impingement syndromes of the ankle: anterolateral, anterior, anteromedial, posterior, and posteromedial impingement.}, }
@article {pmid23941356, year = {2013}, author = {Griesser, M}, title = {Do warning calls boost survival of signal recipients? Evidence from a field experiment in a group-living bird species.}, journal = {Frontiers in zoology}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {49}, pmid = {23941356}, issn = {1742-9994}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Warning calls are a widespread anti-predator adaptation, which can signal unprofitability to predators or alert other potential targets of the predator. Although it is tacitly assumed that the recipients of warning calls experience a reduction in predation risk, this crucial assumption remains untested. Here I tested this hypothesis with a field experiment in the group-living Siberian jay, Perisoreus infaustus. I exposed male or female breeding adults that were foraging together with a non-breeder (related or unrelated) to a model of their main predator (goshawk Accipiter gentilis) in autumn. I then recorded the warning call response of breeders as well as the reaction time of non-breeders, and followed the subsequent survival of non-breeders until spring.<br><br>RESULTS: In most experiments (73%), non-breeders were warned by the more experienced breeders. Warning calls almost halved the reaction time of non-breeders during the experiment and influenced the survival of call recipients: non-breeders that were warned had a higher subsequent survival (19 out of 23) than non-breeders that were not warned (2 out of 5). However, neither kinship, group size, the age of the non-breeder, or the habitat structure of the territory had an influence on the survival subsequent to the experiments.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Since earlier studies showed that breeders are consistent in their warning call investment across different contexts, breeders that did warn non-breeders in the experiment were likely to have done so in subsequent, natural attacks. Consequently non-breeders living with breeders that called had a better chance of surviving predator attacks. Thus, these results suggest that warning calls have the potential to boost the survival of signal recipients, confirming a pivotal, yet hitherto untested assumption of the effect of warning calls.}, }
@article {pmid23937948, year = {2013}, author = {Wogan, ME and Webster-Hoffmeyer, KS and Grgicak, CM}, title = {Corrosion behaviour of four handguns in aqueous environments: corrosion product characterization and effects on estimating the time since deposition.}, journal = {Science &amp; justice : journal of the Forensic Science Society}, volume = {53}, number = {3}, pages = {363-370}, doi = {10.1016/j.scijus.2013.04.010}, pmid = {23937948}, issn = {1355-0306}, abstract = {When a firearm has been disposed of in a body of water and becomes corroded, its appearance is altered and determining a time-since-immersion may be of import to the investigation. Therefore, in this study, the corrosion and mass loss of four handgun slides over a period of 180days were examined. Solid-state characterization of the metals and their corrosion products via SEM/EDX and powder X-ray Diffraction (pXRD) was performed. The pXRDs were analyzed against the NIST Powder Diffraction Database to determine the crystalline phases. Filings from the SS416 standard, Llama and Ruger handgun slide predominantly consisted of iron alloys. After 180-days in solution, pXRD indicated that the adherent corrosion products consisted of 1) γ-FeOOH and 2) iron oxide (Fe3O4 or Fe2O3). Additionally, pXRD analysis indicated that the adherent corrosion products of the SS416 standard also consisted of CrO3. Metal filings from the Raven and Jennings handgun slides were a mixture of iron-nickel-zinc and EDX and pXRD analyses of the corrosion products, when submersed in deionized water, indicated that the products consisted of: 1) γ-FeOOH, 2) iron oxide (Fe3O4 or Fe2O3), and 3) ZnFe2O4 or ZnO; where the Jennings adherent rust contained ZnFe2O4 and the Raven adherent rust contained ZnO. Further, pXRD of the corrosion products from these alloys, when submersed in 25 PSU (Practical Salinity Unit) solution, indicated that the products consisted of: 1) ZnO, 2) Zn(OH)2, 3) α-Ni(OH)2, and 4) NaCl. The data thus indicated that both metal composition and the presence of chloride ions had significant impacts on rates and products of corrosion and suggest that the presence of Cl(-) changes not only the rate of corrosion, but also the corroding species itself. While mechanisms and rates of the chloride driven corrosion processes offer explanations as to the different oxides and hydroxides observed between immersion conditions, they do not offer an explanation for the differences observed between handguns. Therefore, utilizing a general approach where surface area coverage of corrosion products is the sole consideration is not sufficient to determine time-since-immersion. Attempts to determine a time-since-immersion would require a priori knowledge of the mechanism of corrosion for a given metal mixture within a specified environment. The results described herein give indications as to the possible corrosion mechanism driving the process in high and low Cl(-) environments and show the necessity of including the metal composition, rust composition and ion concentration in any models that attempt to elucidate the time-since-immersion of handguns for forensic applications.}, }
@article {pmid23935959, year = {2013}, author = {Esposito, R and Cilli, F and Pieramico, V and Ferretti, A and Macchia, A and Tommasi, M and Saggino, A and Ciavardelli, D and Manna, A and Navarra, R and Cieri, F and Stuppia, L and Tartaro, A and Sensi, SL}, title = {Acute effects of modafinil on brain resting state networks in young healthy subjects.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {8}, number = {7}, pages = {e69224}, pmid = {23935959}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adult ; Attention/*drug effects/physiology ; Benzhydryl Compounds/*pharmacology ; Brain/*drug effects/physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Double-Blind Method ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods ; Male ; Modafinil ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Nootropic Agents/*pharmacology ; Placebos ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: There is growing debate on the use of drugs that promote cognitive enhancement. Amphetamine-like drugs have been employed as cognitive enhancers, but they show important side effects and induce addiction. In this study, we investigated the use of modafinil which appears to have less side effects compared to other amphetamine-like drugs. We analyzed effects on cognitive performances and brain resting state network activity of 26 healthy young subjects.<br><br>METHODOLOGY: A single dose (100 mg) of modafinil was administered in a double-blind and placebo-controlled study. Both groups were tested for neuropsychological performances with the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices II set (APM) before and three hours after administration of drug or placebo. Resting state functional magnetic resonance (rs-FMRI) was also used, before and after three hours, to investigate changes in the activity of resting state brain networks. Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) was employed to evaluate differences in structural connectivity between the two groups. Protocol ID: Modrest_2011; NCT01684306; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01684306.<br><br>PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Results indicate that a single dose of modafinil improves cognitive performance as assessed by APM. Rs-fMRI showed that the drug produces a statistically significant increased activation of Frontal Parietal Control (FPC; p<0.04) and Dorsal Attention (DAN; p<0.04) networks. No modifications in structural connectivity were observed.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS AND SIGNIFICANCE: Overall, our findings support the notion that modafinil has cognitive enhancing properties and provide functional connectivity data to support these effects.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01684306 http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01684306.}, }
@article {pmid23930977, year = {2013}, author = {Vittecoq, M and Lecollinet, S and Jourdain, E and Thomas, F and Blanchon, T and Arnal, A and Lowenski, S and Gauthier-Clerc, M}, title = {Recent circulation of West Nile virus and potentially other closely related flaviviruses in Southern France.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {13}, number = {8}, pages = {610-613}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2012.1166}, pmid = {23930977}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Antibodies, Neutralizing ; Antibodies, Viral/*blood ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/virology ; Flavivirus/*immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; Flavivirus Infections/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; France/epidemiology ; Humans ; Passeriformes ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {In recent years, the number of West Nile virus (WNV) cases reported in horses and humans has increased dramatically throughout the Mediterranean basin. Furthermore, the emergence of Usutu virus (USUV) in Austria in 2001, and its subsequent expansion to Hungary, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and Germany, has given added cause for concern regarding the impact of the spread of flaviviruses on human and animal health in western Europe. Despite frequent detection of WNV and USUV cases in neighboring countries, no case of WNV has been detected in France since 2006 and USUV has never been reported. However, recent investigations focused on detecting the circulation of flaviviruses in France are lacking. We investigated the circulation of WNV and USUV viruses in wild birds in southern France on the basis of a serological survey conducted on a sentinel species, the magpie (Pica pica), in the Camargue area from November, 2009, to December, 2010. We detected WNV-neutralizing antibodies at a high titer (160) in a second-year bird showing recent exposure to WNV, although no WNV case has been detected in humans or in horses since 2004 in the Camargue. In addition, we observed low titers (10 or 20) of USUV-specific antibodies in six magpies, two of which were also seropositive for WNV. Such low titers do not give grounds for concluding that these birds had been exposed to USUV; cross-reactions at low titers may occur between antigenically closely related flaviviruses. But these results urge for further investigations into the circulation of flaviviruses in southern France. They also emphasize the necessity of undertaking epidemiological studies on a long-term basis, rather than over short periods following public health crises, to gain insight into viral dynamics within natural reservoirs.}, }
@article {pmid23924651, year = {2013}, author = {Okada, HC and Alleyne, B and Varghai, K and Kinder, K and Guyuron, B}, title = {Facial changes caused by smoking: a comparison between smoking and nonsmoking identical twins.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {132}, number = {5}, pages = {1085-1092}, doi = {10.1097/PRS.0b013e3182a4c20a}, pmid = {23924651}, issn = {1529-4242}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Diseases in Twins ; Face/*pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Photography ; Skin Aging/*pathology ; Smoking/*adverse effects ; Twins, Monozygotic ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to identify the specific components of facial aging secondary to smoking, by comparing standardized photographs of identical twins with different smoking histories.<br><br>METHODS: During the Twins Days Festival in Twinsburg, Ohio, from 2007 to 2010, 79 pairs of twins were identified, in which only one twin smokes or where one twin smoked at least 5 years longer than his or her counterpart. Questionnaires were obtained and standardized photographs were taken by professional photographers. A panel of three blinded judges analyzed the twins' facial features and graded wrinkles using the validated Lemperle Assessment Scale, and ranked age-related facial features on a four-point scale.<br><br>RESULTS: Smoking twins compared with their nonsmoking counterparts had worse scores for upper eyelid skin redundancy, lower lid bags, malar bags, nasolabial folds, upper lip wrinkles, lower lip vermillion wrinkles, and jowls. Lower lid hyperpigmentation in the smoking group fell just short of statistical significance. Transverse forehead wrinkles, glabellar wrinkles, crow's feet, and lower lip lines accentuated by puckering did not have a statistically significant differences in scores. Among twins with greater than 5 years' difference in smoking duration, twins who had smoked longer had worse scores for lower lid bags, malar bags, and lower lip vermillion wrinkles.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study details the specifics of facial aging brought on by smoking, which primarily affects the middle and lower thirds of the face. It also demonstrates that a 5-year difference in smoking history can cause noticeable differences in facial aging in twins.<br><br>Risk, II.}, }
@article {pmid23923497, year = {2013}, author = {Soler, JJ and Martín-Gálvez, D and de Neve, L and Soler, M}, title = {Brood parasitism correlates with the strength of spatial autocorrelation of life history and defensive traits in Magpies.}, journal = {Ecology}, volume = {94}, number = {6}, pages = {1338-1346}, doi = {10.1890/12-1350.1}, pmid = {23923497}, issn = {0012-9658}, mesh = {Animals ; Clutch Size ; Demography ; Ecosystem ; *Nesting Behavior ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Environmental characteristics of neighboring locations are generally more similar than those of distant locations. Selection pressures due to parasitism and other environmental conditions shape life history traits of hosts; thus, the probability of parasitism should be associated with the strength of spatial autocorrelation in life history and defensive traits of their hosts. Here we test this hypothesis in three different subpopulations of Magpie (Pica pica) parasitized by the Great Spotted Cuckoo (Clamator glandarius) during three breeding seasons. In some of the years and study plots, we found evidence of positive spatial autocorrelations for clutch size and parasitism rate, but not for laying date. As predicted, brood parasitism was associated with the strength of these spatial autocorrelations. Magpies that bred close to each other in areas of high risk of parasitism responded similarly to experimental parasitic eggs. Moreover, an elevated risk of parasitism eliminated the spatial autocorrelation for clutch size, which became randomly distributed. We discuss possible mechanisms explaining these associations, which may have important consequences for estimating evolutionary responses of hosts to parasitic infections and, therefore, for epidemiological, ecological, and evolutionary studies of host-parasite relationships.}, }
@article {pmid23919480, year = {2014}, author = {Oravcova, V and Zurek, L and Townsend, A and Clark, AB and Ellis, JC and Cizek, A and Literak, I}, title = {American crows as carriers of vancomycin-resistant enterococci with vanA gene.}, journal = {Environmental microbiology}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {939-949}, doi = {10.1111/1462-2920.12213}, pmid = {23919480}, issn = {1462-2920}, mesh = {Animals ; Bacterial Proteins/*genetics ; Carbon-Oxygen Ligases/*genetics ; Crows/*microbiology ; Enterococcus faecalis/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Enterococcus faecium/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Feces/microbiology ; Gene Transfer, Horizontal ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; United States ; Vancomycin Resistance/*genetics ; }, abstract = {We studied the vanA-carrying vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) isolated from American crows in the United States during the winter 2011/2012. Faecal samples from crows were cultured selectively for VRE and characterized. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) were used to examine epidemiological relationships of vanA-containing VRE. Isolates were tested in vitro for their ability to horizontally transfer the vancomycin resistance trait. VRE with the vanA gene were found in 15 (2.5%) of 590 crows samples, from which we obtained 22 different isolates. Enterococcal species were Enterococcus faecium (14) and E. faecalis (8). One, two and 19 isolates originated from Kansas, New York State and Massachusetts, respectively. Based on MLST analysis, E. faecium isolates were grouped as ST18 (6 isolates), ST555 (2), and novel types ST749 (1), ST750 (3), ST751 (1), ST752 (1). Enterococcus faecalis isolates belonged to ST6 (1), ST16 (3) and ST179 (4). All isolates were able to transfer the vancomycin resistance trait via filter mating with very high transfer range. Clinically important enterococci with the vanA gene occur in faeces of wild American crows throughout the United States. These migrating birds may contribute to the dissemination of VRE in environment over large distances. [Correction added after first online publication on 06 August 2013: The number of E. faecium ST752 isolate is now amended to '1', consistent with that shown in the 'Results' section and Figure 2.].}, }
@article {pmid23914504, year = {2013}, author = {Bala, G and Krneta, Z and Drid, P}, title = {The effects of kinesiological activity on motor and intellectual functioning of children in relation to their physical constitution at birth.}, journal = {Collegium antropologicum}, volume = {37 Suppl 2}, number = {}, pages = {161-169}, pmid = {23914504}, issn = {0350-6134}, mesh = {Child ; Child Development/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/physiology ; Kinesthesis/*physiology ; Male ; Motor Skills/*physiology ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; }, abstract = {At birth, all children are characterized by different values of body weight and body length, caused by both genetic factors and the conditions and characteristics of their prenatal development. It is important to investigate whether these differences expressed at birth, particularly those values that are below average, can be improved by implementing a six-month period of kinesiological activity during childhood. With this purpose, a research was conducted using a sample of 214 children, aged 6,13 +/- 1,04 decimal years (experimental group of 93 boys and 29 girls, control group of 43 boys and 49 girls), which was divided into two subsamples by using K-mean cluster analysis based on body weight and length of children at birth. The formed subsamples were defined by the average values of the applied variables as groups of children that were below average and above average, according to their development at birth. Motor status of children was assessed by using a battery of 7 standard motor tests, and intellectual status by applying Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices. Quantitative effects of the applied kinesiological treatment were analyzed based on the initial and final status of young participants in the examined variables by using multivariate analysis of variance and covariance. Qualitative differences were defined by results of factor analyses. It was established that there were no statistically significant differences in the variable space between boys and girls in the initial measurement, in relation to the experimental and the control group, so the sample was further treated as the overall sample of children. The effects of the experimental treatment have shown significant improvement of motor and intellectual functioning of children in the experimental group of children with below average and above average development at birth.}, }
@article {pmid23904991, year = {2013}, author = {Kaplan, G and Rogers, LJ}, title = {Stability of referential signalling across time and locations: testing alarm calls of Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen) in urban and rural Australia and in Fiji.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {1}, number = {}, pages = {e112}, pmid = {23904991}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {In many avian species, vocal repertoire expands and changes throughout life as new syllables are added and sounds adapted to neighbours and circumstances. Referential signals, on the other hand, demand stability and lack of variation so that their meaning can be understood by conspecifics at all times. It is not known how stable such signals may be when the context is changed entirely but the point of reference remains unchanged. We investigated these questions in a rare case of forced translocation of an avian species, the Australian magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen), from Australia to the remote Fijian island of Taveuni decades ago. By using playbacks of vocalisations to 45 magpie groups in Australia, we first established that magpies use functionally referential signals in their alarm call repertoire signalling aerial danger (measured as looking up in response to a specific alarm call even though the speakers were on the ground). With these results in hand, we then used the same playbacks to magpie groups on the island of Taveuni. Our results showed that the meaning of one specific call (eagle alarm call) is stable and maintained even in populations that have been isolated from Australian conspecifics over many (at least 10) generations. To our knowledge, this is the first time such a stability of a referential signal has been shown in the natural habitat.}, }
@article {pmid23904989, year = {2013}, author = {Medina, FS and Hunt, GR and Gray, RD and Wild, JM and Kubke, MF}, title = {Perineuronal satellite neuroglia in the telencephalon of New Caledonian crows and other Passeriformes: evidence of satellite glial cells in the central nervous system of healthy birds?.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {1}, number = {}, pages = {e110}, pmid = {23904989}, issn = {2167-8359}, support = {R01 NS029467/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Glia have been implicated in a variety of functions in the central nervous system, including the control of the neuronal extracellular space, synaptic plasticity and transmission, development and adult neurogenesis. Perineuronal glia forming groups around neurons are associated with both normal and pathological nervous tissue. Recent studies have linked reduction in the number of perineuronal oligodendrocytes in the prefrontal cortex with human schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders. Therefore, perineuronal glia may play a decisive role in homeostasis and normal activity of the human nervous system. Here we report on the discovery of novel cell clusters in the telencephala of five healthy Passeriforme, one Psittaciform and one Charadriiforme bird species, which we refer to as Perineuronal Glial Clusters (PGCs). The aim of this study is to describe the structure and distribution of the PGCs in a number of avian species. PGCs were identified with the use of standard histological procedures. Heterochromatin masses visible inside the nuclei of these satellite glia suggest that they may correspond to oligodendrocytes. PGCs were found in the brains of nine New Caledonian crows, two Japanese jungle crows, two Australian magpies, two Indian mynah, three zebra finches (all Passeriformes), one Southern lapwing (Charadriiformes) and one monk parakeet (Psittaciformes). Microscopic survey of the brain tissue suggests that the largest PGCs are located in the hyperpallium densocellulare and mesopallium. No clusters were found in brain sections from one Gruiform (purple swamphen), one Strigiform (barn owl), one Trochiliform (green-backed firecrown), one Falconiform (chimango caracara), one Columbiform (pigeon) and one Galliform (chick). Our observations suggest that PGCs in Aves are brain region- and taxon-specific and that the presence of perineuronal glia in healthy human brains and the similar PGCs in avian gray matter is the result of convergent evolution. The discovery of PGCs in the zebra finch is of great importance because this species has the potential to become a robust animal model in which to study the function of neuron-glia interactions in healthy and diseased adult brains.}, }
@article {pmid23899660, year = {2013}, author = {Koura, KG and Boivin, MJ and Davidson, LL and Ouédraogo, S and Zoumenou, R and Alao, MJ and Garcia, A and Massougbodji, A and Cot, M and Bodeau-Livinec, F}, title = {Usefulness of child development assessments for low-resource settings in francophone Africa.}, journal = {Journal of developmental and behavioral pediatrics : JDBP}, volume = {34}, number = {7}, pages = {486-493}, pmid = {23899660}, issn = {1536-7312}, support = {R21 HD060524/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R21-HD060524/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Benin/epidemiology ; Child ; Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Depression, Postpartum/diagnosis/epidemiology ; Developing Countries ; Developmental Disabilities/*diagnosis/epidemiology ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Male ; Maternal Welfare ; Mother-Child Relations ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Few tools are available to screen or assess infant's cognitive development, especially in French-speaking Africa. This study evaluated the use of the French translation of the Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL), and the "Ten Questions" questionnaire (TQ) in 1-year-old children in Benin, a francophone country.<br><br>METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 3 health centers serving a semirural area in Benin. Three hundred fifty-seven children aged 12 months and their mothers were enrolled in 2011. Infant development was assessed at local health centers followed by a home visit to collect information on socioeconomic status, maternal Raven score, maternal depressive symptoms, and mother-child interactions (Home Observation for the Measurement of the Environment [HOME] Inventory), and to administer the TQ.<br><br>RESULTS: The infant's gender (female), the HOME, and maternal education were associated with a higher Early Learning Composite score in multivariate analyses (p = .02, p = .004, p = .007, respectively). The HOME and family wealth were also associated with the Gross Motor Scale (p = .03 and p = .03, respectively). Mothers were more likely to report difficulties on the TQ when the child presented lower score on the MSEL. When considering the Gross Motor Scale as the gold standard to define moderate delays, the 2 combined motor-related questions on the TQ showed good sensitivity and specificity (76.5 and 75.7).<br><br>CONCLUSION: In a low-resource rural setting in Africa, the TQ effectively identified 3 quarters of 1-year-old infants with delayed development. After this screening, the MSEL may be useful for further assessment as it showed good feasibility and sensitivity to known risk factors for poor child development.}, }
@article {pmid23898397, year = {2013}, author = {Järhult, JD and Stedt, J and Gustafsson, L}, title = {Zero prevalence of extended spectrum beta-lactamase-producing bacteria in 300 breeding Collared Flycatchers in Sweden.}, journal = {Infection ecology &amp; epidemiology}, volume = {3}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {23898397}, issn = {2000-8686}, abstract = {Wild birds are important indicators and potential spreaders of antibiotic resistance. The order Passerines is scarcely studied apart from Corvus sp. but extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) has been found in Blackbirds. We tested 300 fecal samples from a well-studied population of Collared Flycatchers (Ficedula albicollis) at the Island of Gotland in Sweden and found no ESBL-producing bacteria. These results support the idea of 'ecological guild' as Blackbirds are ground-foraging invertebrate feeders, whereas Collared Flycatchers are aerial insectivores not regularly coming into contact with fecal contaminations and therefore less prone to acquire pathogens spread by the fecal-oral route.}, }
@article {pmid23891364, year = {2015}, author = {Hartmans, C and Comijs, H and Jonker, C}, title = {The perception of sexuality in older adults and its relationship with cognitive functioning.}, journal = {The American journal of geriatric psychiatry : official journal of the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry}, volume = {23}, number = {3}, pages = {243-252}, doi = {10.1016/j.jagp.2013.04.003}, pmid = {23891364}, issn = {1545-7214}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*psychology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; *Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Netherlands/epidemiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Prospective Studies ; Registries ; Sexuality/*psychology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Investigating whether cognitive functioning is associated with the perception of one's sexuality in old age.<br><br>DESIGN: Cross-sectional analysis, using observation cycle 2005/2006 of the population-based prospective cohort of the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam.<br><br>SETTING: Municipal registries in three Dutch regions.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: 1,908 older adults (mean [standard deviation] age: 71 [8.87] years; 54% women).<br><br>MEASUREMENTS: Sexuality and intimacy were assessed using four questions. Four cognitive domains were assessed: general cognitive functioning (Mini-Mental State Examination), memory performance (Auditory Verbal Learning Test), processing speed (Coding Task), and fluid intelligence (Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices). Multinomial regression analysis was used, with sexuality as outcome. The interaction effect between gender and sexuality was also tested.<br><br>RESULTS: Lower fluid intelligence was associated with perceiving sexuality as unimportant; lower general cognitive functioning was associated with perceiving sexuality as unimportant; and lower immediate memory recall was associated with evaluating sexual life as unpleasant. Associations were also found between lower fluid intelligence, processing speed, and general cognitive functioning, and agreeing with sexuality no longer being important. Lower processing speed, general cognitive functioning, and delayed memory recall were associated with disagreeing with a remaining need for intimacy when getting older. Finally, the association between fluid intelligence and perceiving sexuality as important, and the association between immediate memory recall score and evaluating sexual life as pleasant, was only significant in women. The association between lower general cognitive functioning and perceiving sexuality as unimportant seemed stronger in women compared with men.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Higher cognitive functioning was associated with the way in which older people perceive their current sexuality.}, }
@article {pmid23891115, year = {2013}, author = {Santarnecchi, E and Polizzotto, NR and Godone, M and Giovannelli, F and Feurra, M and Matzen, L and Rossi, A and Rossi, S}, title = {Frequency-dependent enhancement of fluid intelligence induced by transcranial oscillatory potentials.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {23}, number = {15}, pages = {1449-1453}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2013.06.022}, pmid = {23891115}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Adult ; Attention/physiology ; Cognition/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Nontherapeutic Human Experimentation ; Time Factors ; *Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation/methods ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Everyday problem solving requires the ability to go beyond experience by efficiently encoding and manipulating new information, i.e., fluid intelligence (Gf) [1]. Performance in tasks involving Gf, such as logical and abstract reasoning, has been shown to rely on distributed neural networks, with a crucial role played by prefrontal regions [2]. Synchronization of neuronal activity in the gamma band is a ubiquitous phenomenon within the brain; however, no evidence of its causal involvement in cognition exists to date [3]. Here, we show an enhancement of Gf ability in a cognitive task induced by exogenous rhythmic stimulation within the gamma band. Imperceptible alternating current [4] delivered through the scalp over the left middle frontal gyrus resulted in a frequency-specific shortening of the time required to find the correct solution in a visuospatial abstract reasoning task classically employed to measure Gf abilities (i.e., Raven's matrices) [5]. Crucially, gamma-band stimulation (γ-tACS) selectively enhanced performance only on more complex trials involving conditional/logical reasoning. The present finding supports a direct involvement of gamma oscillatory activity in the mechanisms underlying higher-order human cognition.}, }
@article {pmid23885180, year = {2013}, author = {Boyede, GO and Lesi, FE and Ezeaka, VC and Umeh, CS}, title = {Impact of sociodemographic factors on cognitive function in school-aged HIV-infected Nigerian children.}, journal = {HIV/AIDS (Auckland, N.Z.)}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {145-152}, pmid = {23885180}, issn = {1179-1373}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In this study, we sought to evaluate the influence of sociodemographic factors, ie, age, sex, socioeconomic status, maternal education, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status, on cognitive performance in school-aged HIV-infected Nigerian children.<br><br>METHODS: Sixty-nine HIV-positive children aged 6-15 years were matched with 69 HIV-negative control children for age and sex. The children were subdivided for the purpose of analysis into two cognitive developmental stages using Piaget's staging, ie, the concrete operational stage (6-11 years) and the formal operational stage (12-15 years). All participants underwent cognitive assessment using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RPM). Sociodemographic data for the study participants, ie, age, sex, socioeconomic status, and level of maternal education, were obtained using a study proforma. Logistic regression analyses were used to determine associations of HIV status and sociodemographic characteristics with RPM cognitive scores.<br><br>RESULTS: The overall mean RPM score for the HIV-positive children was 18.2 &#xb1; 9.8 (range 8.0-47.0) which was significantly lower than the score of 27.2 &#xb1; 13.8 (range 8.0-52.0) for the HIV-negative children (P < 0.001). On RPM grading, 56.5% of the HIV-positive children had cognitive performance at below average to intellectually defective range. Below average RPM scores were found to be significantly associated with younger age (6-11 years), positive HIV status, lower socioeconomic status, and low level of maternal education.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Younger age, poor socioeconomic status, and low level of maternal education were factors apart from HIV infection that were significantly associated with low cognitive function in school-aged HIV-infected Nigerian children.}, }
@article {pmid23882314, year = {2013}, author = {Imhof, M and Kuhne, U}, title = {Introduction of the Microdroplet Technique with Incobotulinumtoxin A for the Treatment of Crow's Feet.}, journal = {The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology}, volume = {6}, number = {7}, pages = {40-44}, pmid = {23882314}, issn = {1941-2789}, abstract = {To investigate the efficacy and safety of the addition of the microdroplet technique to conventional injections for the treatment of crow's feet with incobotulinumtoxin A, four women with moderate-to-severe crow's feet at maximum expression received three standard intradermal injections of incobotulinumtoxin A on both sides of the face (4U [0.1mL] at each injection point) plus six microdroplet injections of incobotulinumtoxin A (0.5U [0.025mL] per point) into the lateral canthal area on the left side of the face and an equal quantity of saline at the same injection points on the right side of the face. Investigators and subjects independently evaluated the degree of rhytide improvement both at rest and maximum expression after 28 and 84 days. Investigator and subject ratings for wrinkle severity at maximum expression were improved to a greater degree on the side of the face treated with additional microdroplet incobotulinumtoxin A in all subjects, except one who was over 65 years old. All women preferred the results on the left side of their face. Treatment was well tolerated. The addition of the microdroplet technique to standard practice for injecting incobotulinumtoxin A is a promising procedure for the treatment of crow's feet in women with moderate-to-severe wrinkles.}, }
@article {pmid23881172, year = {2013}, author = {Poelstra, JW and Ellegren, H and Wolf, JB}, title = {An extensive candidate gene approach to speciation: diversity, divergence and linkage disequilibrium in candidate pigmentation genes across the European crow hybrid zone.}, journal = {Heredity}, volume = {111}, number = {6}, pages = {467-473}, pmid = {23881172}, issn = {1365-2540}, mesh = {Animals ; Avian Proteins/*genetics ; Crows/classification/*genetics ; *Genetic Speciation ; *Genetic Variation ; *Linkage Disequilibrium ; Phylogeny ; Pigmentation ; Pigments, Biological/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Colouration patterns have an important role in adaptation and speciation. The European crow system, in which all-black carrion crows and grey-coated hooded crows meet in a narrow hybrid zone, is a prominent example. The marked phenotypic difference is maintained by assortative mating in the absence of neutral genetic divergence, suggesting the presence of few pigmentation genes of major effect. We made use of the rich phenotypic and genetic resources in mammals and identified a comprehensive panel of 95 candidate pigmentation genes for birds. Based on functional annotation, we chose a subset of the most promising 37 candidates, for which we developed a marker system that demonstrably works across the avian phylogeny. In total, we sequenced 107 amplicons (∼3 loci per gene, totalling 60 kb) in population samples of crows (n=23 for each taxon). Tajima's D, Fu's FS, DHEW and HKA (Hudson-Kreitman-Aguade) statistics revealed several amplicons that deviated from neutrality; however, none of these showed significantly elevated differentiation between the two taxa. Hence, colour divergence in this system may be mediated by uncharacterized pigmentation genes or regulatory regions outside genes. Alternatively, the observed high population recombination rate (4Ner∼0.03), with overall linkage disequilibrium dropping rapidly within the order of few 100 bp, may compromise the power to detect causal loci with nearby markers. Our results add to the debate as to the utility of candidate gene approaches in relation to genomic features and the genetic architecture of the phenotypic trait in question.}, }
@article {pmid23880509, year = {2013}, author = {Halász, J and Áspán, N and Bozsik, C and Gádoros, J and Inántsy-Pap, J}, title = {The relationship between conduct symptoms and the recognition of emotions in non-clinical adolescents.}, journal = {Psychiatria Hungarica : A Magyar Pszichiatriai Tarsasag tudomanyos folyoirata}, volume = {28}, number = {2}, pages = {104-110}, pmid = {23880509}, issn = {0237-7896}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Antisocial Personality Disorder/diagnosis/psychology ; Conduct Disorder/diagnosis/psychology ; *Emotions ; *Facial Expression ; Fear ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Recognition, Psychology ; Sex Factors ; *Social Perception ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In adult individuals with antisocial personality disorder, impairment in the recognition of fear seems established. In adolescents with conduct disorder (antecedent of antisocial personality disorder), only sporadic data were assessed, but literature data indicate alterations in the recognition of emotions. The aim of the present study was to assess the relationship between emotion recognition and conduct symptoms in non-clinical adolescents.<br><br>METHODS: 53 adolescents participated in the study (13-16 years, boys, n=29, age 14.7&#xb1;0.2 years; girls, n=24, age=14.7&#xb1;0.2 years) after informed consent. The parent version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire was used to assess behavioral problems. The recognition of six basic emotions was established by the "Facial expressions of emotion-stimuli and tests", while Raven IQ measures were also performed.<br><br>RESULTS: Compared to boys, girls showed significantly better performance in the recognition of disgust (p<0.035), while no significant difference occurred in the recognition of other emotions. In boys, Conduct Problems score was inversely correlated with the recognition of fear (Spearman R=-0.40, p<0.031) and overall emotion recognition (Spearman R=-0.44, p<0.015), while similar correlation was not present in girls.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The relationship between the recognition of emotions and conduct problems might indicate an important mechanism in the development of antisocial behavior.}, }
@article {pmid23879236, year = {2013}, author = {Nyaradi, A and Li, J and Hickling, S and Whitehouse, AJ and Foster, JK and Oddy, WH}, title = {Diet in the early years of life influences cognitive outcomes at 10 years: a prospective cohort study.}, journal = {Acta paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)}, volume = {102}, number = {12}, pages = {1165-1173}, doi = {10.1111/apa.12363}, pmid = {23879236}, issn = {1651-2227}, mesh = {Child ; *Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; *Diet ; Female ; Food ; Humans ; Infant ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Prospective Studies ; }, abstract = {AIM: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between diet during the first 3 years of life and cognitive outcomes at 10 years of age.<br><br>METHODS: The Raine Study is a longitudinal study of 2868 children and their families. Based on the foods reported to be eaten at age one, two and three, an Eating Assessment in Toddlers diet score was developed, consisting of seven components. Cognition was measured by the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-III (PPVT-III) and the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices at the 10-year follow-up. Associations were assessed in multivariate regression models.<br><br>RESULTS: A higher Eating Assessment in Toddlers diet score at age one was associated with higher PPVT-III [&#x3b2;&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.12 (0.05, 0.19), p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.001] and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices scores [&#x3b2;&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.17 (0.02, 0.33), p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.025] at age ten after adjustments. Increased fruit consumption at age one was positively associated, while increased sweetened beverage consumption was negatively associated with cognitive development. Dairy consumption at ages two and three had positive associations with the PPVT-III and at age two with the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices.<br><br>CONCLUSION: A better diet quality during the early years of life may have a positive effect on cognitive ability later in childhood.}, }
@article {pmid23874952, year = {2013}, author = {Lorås, H and Stensdotter, AK and Öhberg, F and Sigmundsson, H}, title = {Individual differences in motor timing and its relation to cognitive and fine motor skills.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {8}, number = {7}, pages = {e69353}, pmid = {23874952}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Motor Skills/*physiology ; Psychometrics ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The present study investigated the relationship between individual differences in timing movements at the level of milliseconds and performance on selected cognitive and fine motor skills. For this purpose, young adult participants (N = 100) performed a repetitive movement task paced by an auditory metronome at different rates. Psychometric measures included the digit-span and symbol search subtasks from the Wechsler battery as well as the Raven SPM. Fine motor skills were assessed with the Purdue Pegboard test. Motor timing performance was significantly related (mean r = .3) to cognitive measures, and explained both unique and shared variance with information-processing speed of Raven's scores. No significant relations were found between motor timing measures and fine motor skills. These results show that individual differences in cognitive and motor timing performance is to some extent dependent upon shared processing not associated with individual differences in manual dexterity.}, }
@article {pmid23866206, year = {2013}, author = {Flores-Mendoza, C and Widaman, K and Mansur-Alves, M and Bacelar, TD and Saldanha, R}, title = {Psychoticism and disruptive behavior can be also good predictors of school achievement.}, journal = {The Spanish journal of psychology}, volume = {16}, number = {}, pages = {E13}, doi = {10.1017/sjp.2013.3}, pmid = {23866206}, issn = {1988-2904}, mesh = {*Achievement ; Adolescent ; Child ; Educational Measurement ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Personality ; Students/*psychology/statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {The relations of Gf (Standard Progressive Matrices Raven), Gc (verbal scale of Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Third Version), personality dimensions (Eysenck Personality Questionnaire-Junior Version), and disruptive behavior (TDAH scale) with school achievement (measured by TDE test and PISA test) were investigated. Two samples of students (total N = 534) representing a broad range of socioeconomic status (SES) participated in this study. Path models were conducted. The results demonstrated that (1) in both samples no sex differences related to school achievement were found; (2) in the first sample, after controlling for age and SES differences, Gf and psychoticism predicted (.38 and -.13, respectively) school achievement (measured by TDE test); (3) in the second sample, after controlling for SES differences to which additional measures were administered, Gf and Gc positively predicted (.22 and .40, respectively) school achievement (measured by PISA test). In addition, psychoticism and disruptive behavior also predicted school performance (-.14 and -.28, respectively). Some theoretical and practical implications are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid23864297, year = {2013}, author = {Clary, D and Kelly, DM}, title = {Are Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana) able to discriminate knowledge states of human experimenters during an object-choice task?.}, journal = {Evolutionary psychology : an international journal of evolutionary approaches to psychology and behavior}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {628-646}, pmid = {23864297}, issn = {1474-7049}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Choice Behavior ; Cues ; Humans ; Knowledge ; *Learning ; *Passeriformes ; *Theory of Mind ; }, abstract = {Corvids and primates have been shown to possess similar cognitive adaptations, yet these animals are seldom tested using similar procedures. Object-choice tasks, which have commonly been used to test whether an animal is able to infer the mental state of a human experimenter based on a gestural cue, provide one potential means of testing these animals using a similar paradigm. The current study used an object-choice task to examine whether the corvid, Clark's nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana), is able to use a cognitive strategy to discriminate between the knowledge states of two human experimenters. One experimenter was informed, and the other uninformed, as to the location of a food reward hidden inside one of two opaque containers. During the Uninformed Gesture condition, the nutcrackers were given probe tests during which only the person performing as the uninformed experimenter provided a gesture. Thus, the nutcrackers could not use the experimenter's gesture to reliably find the food. During the Gesture Conflict condition, the nutcrackers were presented with a cue conflict. During probe tests, both the informed and the uninformed experimenter gestured to separate containers. Thus, to find the food the nutcrackers had to use the gesture from the informed experimenter and refrain from using the gesture of the uninformed experimenter. Our results showed that when the uninformed experimenter's gesture was presented alone, the birds continued to follow the gesture even though it was not consistently predictive of the food's location. However, when provided with two conflicting gestures, as a group the nutcrackers responded to the gesture of the informed experimenter at above chance levels. These results suggest that the birds had learned that the gesture was informative, perhaps by associative learning, yet when this mechanism was not reliable the nutcrackers were able to use either the human experimenters' presence/absence during the baiting process, or possibly their knowledge states, to determine which gesture to rely upon.}, }
@article {pmid23857635, year = {2013}, author = {Zhou, JJ and Xiang, YT and Wang, CY and Zhou, FC and Ungvari, GS and Dickerson, F and Chiu, HF and Lai, KY and Shum, DH and Lee, E and Au, RW and Tang, WK and Man, D}, title = {Prospective memory deficits in euthymic bipolar disorder patients: a preliminary study.}, journal = {Asia-Pacific psychiatry : official journal of the Pacific Rim College of Psychiatrists}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {183-190}, doi = {10.1111/appy.12019}, pmid = {23857635}, issn = {1758-5872}, mesh = {Adult ; Bipolar Disorder/*psychology ; Case-Control Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory Disorders/*epidemiology ; *Memory, Episodic ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Prospective memory refers to the ability to remember to do something in the future. To date, little is known about prospective memory deficits in bipolar disorder (BD) in remission (euthymia). This study examined the nature and correlates of prospective memory in these patients.<br><br>METHODS: Forty-seven euthymic BD patients and 47 matched healthy controls formed the study sample. Socio-demographic and basic clinical characteristics, prospective memory (Cambridge Prospective Memory Test [CAMPROMPT]), retrospective memory (immediate Logical Memory subtests of the Wechsler Memory Scales-Revised [WMS-R]), IQ (Raven's Progressive Matrices) and executive functioning (Wisconsin Card Sorting Test) were measured in all participants; patients' symptoms were rated with the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and the 11-item Young Mania Rating Scale.<br><br>RESULTS: Patients performed significantly worse on time-based prospective memory compared to controls. Multivariate analyses revealed that patients' lower score on Raven's Progressive Matrices significantly contributed to poor performance on time-based prospective memory, whereas lower scores on WMS-R Logical Memory subtest contributed to poor performance on event-based prospective memory; in controls, lower education level and older age significantly contributed to poor performance on time-based and event-based prospective memory, respectively.<br><br>DISCUSSION: Prospective memory deficits persist in remitted BD patients suggesting that prospective memory impairment constitutes a trait deficit in BD.}, }
@article {pmid23856348, year = {2013}, author = {Ferraguti, M and Martínez-de la Puente, J and Ruiz, S and Soriguer, R and Figuerola, J}, title = {On the study of the transmission networks of blood parasites from SW Spain: diversity of avian haemosporidians in the biting midge Culicoides circumscriptus and wild birds.}, journal = {Parasites &amp; vectors}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {208}, pmid = {23856348}, issn = {1756-3305}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biodiversity ; Bird Diseases/parasitology/transmission ; Birds/*parasitology ; Ceratopogonidae/*parasitology ; DNA, Protozoan/chemistry/genetics ; Female ; Haemosporida/*classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Protozoan Infections, Animal/parasitology/transmission ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Spain ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Blood-sucking flying insects play a key role in the transmission of pathogens of vector-borne diseases. However, at least for the case of avian malaria parasites, the vast majority of studies focus on the interaction between parasites and vertebrate hosts, but there is a lack of information regarding the interaction between the parasites and the insect vectors. Here, we identified the presence of malaria and malaria-like parasite lineages harbored by the potential vector Culicoides circumscriptus (Kieffer). Also, we identified some nodes of the transmission network connecting parasite lineages, potential insect vectors and avian hosts by comparing Haemoproteus and Plasmodium lineages isolated from insects with those infecting wild birds in this and previous studies.<br><br>METHODS: Using a molecular approach, we analysed the presence of blood parasites in a total of 97 biting midges trapped in the Do&#xf1;ana National Park (SW Spain) and surrounding areas. Also, 123 blood samples from 11 bird species were analyzed for the presence of blood parasite infections. Blood parasites Haemoproteus and Plasmodium were identified by amplification of a 478 bp fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gen.<br><br>RESULTS: Thirteen biting midges harboured blood parasites including six Haemoproteus and two Plasmodium lineages, supporting the potential role of these insects on parasite transmission. Moreover, ten (8.1%) birds carried blood parasites. Seven Plasmodium and one Haemoproteus lineages were isolated from birds. Overall, six new Haemoproteus lineages were described in this study. Also, we identified the transmission networks of some blood parasites. Two Haemoproteus lineages, hCIRCUM03 and GAGLA03, were identical to those isolated from Corvus monedula in southern Spain and Garrulus glandarius in Bulgaria, respectively. Furthermore, the new Haemoproteus lineage hCIRCUM05 showed a 99% similarity with a lineage found infecting captive penguins in Japan.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The comparison of the parasite lineages isolated in this study with those previously found infecting birds allowed us to identify some potential nodes in the transmission network of avian blood parasite lineages. These results highlight the complexity of the transmission networks of blood parasites in the wild that may involve a high diversity of susceptible birds and insect vectors.}, }
@article {pmid23850600, year = {2013}, author = {Murphy, P and Shallice, T and Robinson, G and MacPherson, SE and Turner, M and Woollett, K and Bozzali, M and Cipolotti, L}, title = {Impairments in proverb interpretation following focal frontal lobe lesions.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {51}, number = {11}, pages = {2075-2086}, pmid = {23850600}, issn = {1873-3514}, support = {WT089231AIA//Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Brain Injuries/etiology/physiopathology ; Comprehension/*physiology ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/injuries/*physiopathology ; Functional Laterality/physiology ; Humans ; Male ; *Metaphor ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Stroke/complications/physiopathology ; }, abstract = {The proverb interpretation task (PIT) is often used in clinical settings to evaluate frontal "executive" dysfunction. However, only a relatively small number of studies have investigated the relationship between frontal lobe lesions and performance on the PIT. We compared 52 patients with unselected focal frontal lobe lesions with 52 closely matched healthy controls on a proverb interpretation task. Participants also completed a battery of neuropsychological tests, including a fluid intelligence task (Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices). Lesions were firstly analysed according to a standard left/right sub-division. Secondly, a finer-grained analysis compared the performance of patients with medial, left lateral and right lateral lesions with healthy controls. Thirdly, a contrast of specific frontal subgroups compared the performance of patients with medial lesions with patients with lateral frontal lesions. The results showed that patients with left frontal lesions were significantly impaired on the PIT, while in patients with right frontal lesions the impairments approached significance. Medial frontal patients were the only frontal subgroup impaired on the PIT, relative to healthy controls and lateral frontal patients. Interestingly, an error analysis indicated that a significantly higher number of concrete responses were found in the left lateral subgroup compared to healthy controls. We found no correlation between scores on the PIT and on the fluid intelligence task. Overall our results suggest that specific regions of the frontal lobes contribute to the performance on the PIT.}, }
@article {pmid23840595, year = {2013}, author = {Clausen, TD and Mortensen, EL and Schmidt, L and Mathiesen, ER and Hansen, T and Jensen, DM and Damm, P}, title = {Cognitive function in adult offspring of women with gestational diabetes--the role of glucose and other factors.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {8}, number = {6}, pages = {e67107}, pmid = {23840595}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Adult Children/psychology ; Blood Glucose ; Case-Control Studies ; *Cognition ; Diabetes, Gestational/blood/*diet therapy ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Pregnancy ; Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/*etiology ; Treatment Outcome ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate cognitive function in adult offspring of women with diet-treated gestational diabetes and to study potential associations with maternal glucose values.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 2003-2005 cognitive function was assessed in a cohort of 18-27 year old offspring of women with diet-treated gestational diabetes mellitus (n&#x200a;=&#x200a;153) and offspring from the background population (n&#x200a;=&#x200a;118). The main outcome measure was global cognitive score derived from Raven's Progressive Matrices and three verbal subtests from the Weschler Adult Intelligence Scale. Maternal fasting- and 2-hour blood glucose values from the diagnostic oral glucose tolerance test were used as exposure variables.<br><br>RESULTS: Offspring of women with gestational diabetes mellitus had a lower global cognitive score, than offspring from the background population (93.1 vs. 100.0, P<0.001). However, when adjusted for maternal age at delivery, parity, smoking during pregnancy, pre-pregnancy overweight, family social class, parental educational level, gender, birth weight, gestational age, perinatal complications and offspring age at follow-up, the difference was no longer statistically significant. Offspring global cognitive score decreased significantly with increasing maternal fasting glucose (&#x3b2;&#x200a;=&#x200a;-4.5, 95% CI -8.0 to -0.9, P&#x200a;=&#x200a;0.01) and 2-hour glucose (&#x3b2;&#x200a;=&#x200a;-1.5, -2.9 to -0.2, P&#x200a;=&#x200a;0.03) in univariate general linear models, but not when adjusted for family social class and parental educational level.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Lower cognitive test scores in adult offspring of women with diet-treated gestational diabetes were explained by well known predictors of cognitive function, but not by maternal hyperglycaemia during pregnancy. We find it reassuring that mild intrauterine hyperglycaemia does not seem to have adverse effect on offspring cognitive function.}, }
@article {pmid23840515, year = {2013}, author = {Díaz-Fernández, S and Arroyo, B and Casas, F and Martinez-Haro, M and Viñuela, J}, title = {Effect of Game Management on Wild Red-Legged Partridge Abundance.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {8}, number = {6}, pages = {e66671}, pmid = {23840515}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Conservation of Natural Resources/*methods ; Ecosystem ; *Galliformes ; Population Density ; Spain ; }, abstract = {The reduction of game and fish populations has increased investment in management practices. Hunting and fishing managers use several tools to maximize harvest. Managers need to know the impact their management has on wild populations. This issue is especially important to improve management efficacy and biodiversity conservation. We used questionnaires and field bird surveys in 48 hunting estates to assess whether red-legged partridge Alectoris rufa young/adult ratio and summer abundance were related to the intensity of management (provision of supplementary food and water, predator control and releases of farm-bred partridges), harvest intensity or habitat in Central Spain. We hypothesized that partridge abundance would be higher where management practices were applied more intensively. Variation in young/adult ratio among estates was best explained by habitat, year and some management practices. Density of feeders and water points had a positive relationship with this ratio, while the density of partridges released and magpies controlled were negatively related to it. The variables with greatest relative importance were feeders, releases and year. Variations in post-breeding red-legged partridge abundance among estates were best explained by habitat, year, the same management variables that influenced young/adult ratio, and harvest intensity. Harvest intensity was negatively related to partridge abundance. The other management variables had the same type of relationship with abundance as with young/adult ratio, except magpie control. Variables with greatest relative importance were habitat, feeders, water points, releases and harvest intensity. Our study suggests that management had an overall important effect on post-breeding partridge abundance. However, this effect varied among tools, as some had the desired effect (increase in partridge abundance), whereas others did not or even had a negative relationship (such as release of farm-reared birds) and can be thus considered inefficient or even detrimental. We advise reconsidering their use from both ecological and economical points of view.}, }
@article {pmid23831824, year = {2013}, author = {Kim, DS}, title = {Cancer vaccines in the immunotherapy era: rational approach.}, journal = {Human vaccines &amp; immunotherapeutics}, volume = {9}, number = {9}, pages = {2017-2018}, pmid = {23831824}, issn = {2164-554X}, mesh = {Cancer Vaccines/*immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Combined Modality Therapy/*methods ; Humans ; Immunotherapy/*methods ; Neoplasms/*therapy ; T-Lymphocytes/immunology ; }, abstract = {The 13th annual World Vaccine Congress held in Washington DC (April 16-18, 2013) sponsored a plenary and a session focused on cancer vaccine. The cancer vaccine session consisted of three presentations: "Cancer vaccine landscape overview" by Dr Jeffrey Schlom, a Chief of the Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Biology, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI); "Immune-system based cancer vaccines" by Dr Geert-Jan Boons, the Complex Carbohydrate Research Center of the University of Georgia; "Peptide vaccine for malignant gliomas" by Dr Robert Fenstermaker, Chair of the Department of Neurosurgery at Roswell Park Cancer Institute. As Dr Jay Berzofsky, Chief of the new Vaccine Branch (CCR, NCI) pointed out in the plenary, not only the quantity but also the quality (avidity and longevity) (1) of T cell activation is important for the clearance of cancer cells, each of the presented cancer vaccine platforms will first be reviewed by its immunological design to promote the activation of T cells. Then, the benefits of combined cancer vaccines therapy with conventional cancer therapy will be discussed with a mathematical model from NCI prostate cancer trials.}, }
@article {pmid23826379, year = {2013}, author = {Schlacher, TA and Strydom, S and Connolly, RM and Schoeman, D}, title = {Donor-Control of Scavenging Food Webs at the Land-Ocean Interface.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {8}, number = {6}, pages = {e68221}, pmid = {23826379}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Birds ; Brachyura ; *Feeding Behavior ; Fishes ; *Food Chain ; *Oceans and Seas ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Food webs near the interface of adjacent ecosystems are potentially subsidised by the flux of organic matter across system boundaries. Such subsidies, including carrion of marine provenance, are predicted to be instrumental on open-coast sandy shores where in situ productivity is low and boundaries are long and highly permeable to imports from the sea. We tested the effect of carrion supply on the structure of consumer dynamics in a beach-dune system using broad-scale, repeated additions of carcasses at the strandline of an exposed beach in eastern Australia. Carrion inputs increased the abundance of large invertebrate scavengers (ghost crabs, Ocypode spp.), a numerical response most strongly expressed by the largest size-class in the population, and likely due to aggregative behaviour in the short term. Consumption of carrion at the beach-dune interface was rapid and efficient, driven overwhelmingly by facultative avian scavengers. This guild of vertebrate scavengers comprises several species of birds of prey (sea eagles, kites), crows and gulls, which reacted strongly to concentrations of fish carrion, creating hotspots of intense scavenging activity along the shoreline. Detection of carrion effects at several trophic levels suggests that feeding links arising from carcasses shape the architecture and dynamics of food webs at the land-ocean interface.}, }
@article {pmid23825658, year = {2013}, author = {Seiler, M and Schwitzer, C and Gamba, M and Holderied, MW}, title = {Interspecific semantic alarm call recognition in the solitary Sahamalaza sportive lemur, Lepilemur sahamalazensis.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {8}, number = {6}, pages = {e67397}, pmid = {23825658}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation ; *Animal Communication ; Animals ; Lemuridae/*psychology ; *Recognition, Psychology ; *Semantics ; Sympatry ; }, abstract = {As alarm calls indicate the presence of predators, the correct interpretation of alarm calls, including those of other species, is essential for predator avoidance. Conversely, communication calls of other species might indicate the perceived absence of a predator and hence allow a reduction in vigilance. This "eavesdropping" was demonstrated in birds and mammals, including lemur species. Interspecific communication between taxonomic groups has so far been reported in some reptiles and mammals, including three primate species. So far, neither semantic nor interspecific communication has been tested in a solitary and nocturnal lemur species. The aim of this study was to investigate if the nocturnal and solitary Sahamalaza sportive lemur, Lepilemur sahamalazensis, is able to access semantic information of sympatric species. During the day, this species faces the risk of falling prey to aerial and terrestrial predators and therefore shows high levels of vigilance. We presented alarm calls of the crested coua, the Madagascar magpie-robin and aerial, terrestrial and agitation alarm calls of the blue-eyed black lemur to 19 individual Sahamalaza sportive lemurs resting in tree holes. Songs of both bird species' and contact calls of the blue-eyed black lemur were used as a control. After alarm calls of crested coua, Madagascar magpie-robin and aerial alarm of the blue-eyed black lemur, the lemurs scanned up and their vigilance increased significantly. After presentation of terrestrial alarm and agitation calls of the blue-eyed black lemur, the animals did not show significant changes in scanning direction or in the duration of vigilance. Sportive lemur vigilance decreased after playbacks of songs of the bird species and contact calls of blue-eyed black lemurs. Our results indicate that the Sahamalaza sportive lemur is capable of using information on predator presence as well as predator type of different sympatric species, using their referential signals to detect predators early, and that the lemurs' reactions are based on experience and learning.}, }
@article {pmid23825633, year = {2013}, author = {Young, JA and Jefferies, W}, title = {Towards the conservation of endangered avian species: a recombinant West Nile Virus vaccine results in increased humoral and cellular immune responses in Japanese Quail (Coturnix japonica).}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {8}, number = {6}, pages = {e67137}, pmid = {23825633}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood/immunology ; Conservation of Natural Resources/*methods ; Coturnix/blood/*immunology/metabolism ; *Endangered Species ; *Immunity, Cellular ; *Immunity, Humoral ; Interferon-gamma/metabolism ; T-Lymphocytes/cytology/immunology ; Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology ; Viral Proteins/immunology ; West Nile Virus Vaccines/*immunology ; }, abstract = {West Nile Virus (WNV) arrived in North America in 1999 and is now endemic. Many families of birds, especially corvids, are highly susceptible to WNV and infection often results in fatality. Avian species susceptible to WNV infection also include endangered species, such as the Greater Sage-Grouse (Centrocercus uropbasianuts) and the Eastern Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus migrans). The virus has been shown to contribute towards the likelihood of their extinction. Although a clear and present threat, there exists no avian WNV vaccine available to combat this lethal menace. As a first step in establishing an avian model for testing candidate WNV vaccines, avian antibody based reagents were assessed for cross-reactivity with Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) T cell markers CD4 and CD8; the most reactive were found to be the anti-duck CD8 antibody, clone Du-CD8-1, and the anti-chicken/turkey CD4 antibody, clone CT4. These reagents were then used to assess vaccine performance as well as to establish T cell populations in quail, with a novel population of CD4/CD8 double positive T cells being identified in Japanese quail. Concurrently, non-replicating recombinant adenoviruses, expressing either the WNV envelope or NS3 'genes' were constructed and assessed for effectiveness as avian vaccines. Japanese Quail were selected for testing the vaccines, as they provide an avian model that parallels the population diversity of bird species in the wild. Both the level of WNV specific antibodies and the number of T cells in vaccinated birds were increased compared to unvaccinated controls. The results indicate the vaccines to be effective in increasing both humoral and cellular immune responses. These recombinant vaccines therefore may find utility as tools to protect and maintain domestic and wild avian populations. Their implementation may also arrest the progression towards extinction of endangered avian species and reduce the viral reservoir that potentiates infection in humans.}, }
@article {pmid23825209, year = {2013}, author = {Cross, DJ and Marzluff, JM and Palmquist, I and Minoshima, S and Shimizu, T and Miyaoka, R}, title = {Distinct neural circuits underlie assessment of a diversity of natural dangers by American crows.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {280}, number = {1765}, pages = {20131046}, pmid = {23825209}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Crows/*physiology ; *Dangerous Behavior ; *Discrimination, Psychological ; Fear ; Nerve Net/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Social animals encountering natural dangers face decisions such as whether to freeze, flee or harass the threat. The American crow, Corvus brachyrhynchos, conspicuously mobs dangers. We used positron emission tomography to test the hypothesis that distinct neuronal substrates underlie the crow's consistent behavioural response to different dangers. We found that crows activated brain regions associated with attention and arousal (nucleus isthmo-opticus/locus coeruleus), and with motor response (arcopallium), as they fixed their gaze on a threat. However, despite this consistent behavioural and neural response, the sight of a person who previously captured the crow, a person holding a dead crow and a taxidermy-mounted hawk activated distinct forebrain regions (amygdala, hippocampus and portion of the caudal nidopallium, respectively). We suggest that aspects of mobbing behaviour are guided by unique neural circuits that respond to differences in mental processing-learning, memory formation and multisensory discrimination-required to appropriately nuance a risky behaviour to specific dangers.}, }
@article {pmid23822910, year = {2013}, author = {Fischer, JW and Phillips, GE and Nichols, TA and Vercauteren, KC}, title = {Could avian scavengers translocate infectious prions to disease-free areas initiating new foci of chronic wasting disease?.}, journal = {Prion}, volume = {7}, number = {4}, pages = {263-266}, pmid = {23822910}, issn = {1933-690X}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*transmission ; *Crows ; North America ; *Prions ; Wasting Disease, Chronic/*transmission ; }, abstract = {Mechanisms for the spread of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy diseases, including chronic wasting disease (CWD) in North American cervids, are incompletely understood, but primary routes include horizontal and environmental transmission. Birds have been identified as potential vectors for a number of diseases, where they ingest or are exposed to infected material and later shed the disease agent in new areas after flying substantial distances. We recently identified American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) as having the potential to translocate infectious prions in their feces. Our results suggest that this common, migratory North American scavenger is capable of translocating infectious prions to disease-free areas, potentially seeding CWD infection where no other initial source of pathogen establishment is forthcoming. Here we speculate on the role avian scavengers, like American crows, might play in the spatial dissemination of CWD. We also consider the role mammalian scavengers may play in dispersing prions.}, }
@article {pmid23817352, year = {2013}, author = {Qu, Y and Zhao, H and Han, N and Zhou, G and Song, G and Gao, B and Tian, S and Zhang, J and Zhang, R and Meng, X and Zhang, Y and Zhang, Y and Zhu, X and Wang, W and Lambert, D and Ericson, PG and Subramanian, S and Yeung, C and Zhu, H and Jiang, Z and Li, R and Lei, F}, title = {Ground tit genome reveals avian adaptation to living at high altitudes in the Tibetan plateau.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {2071}, doi = {10.1038/ncomms3071}, pmid = {23817352}, issn = {2041-1723}, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological/*genetics ; *Altitude ; Animals ; Avian Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Energy Metabolism/genetics ; Evolution, Molecular ; Genome/*genetics ; Geography ; Hypoxia/genetics ; Immune System/metabolism ; Molecular Sequence Annotation ; Multigene Family ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Phylogeny ; Selection, Genetic ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Signal Transduction/genetics ; Tibet ; }, abstract = {The ground tit (Parus humilis) is endemic to the Tibetan plateau. It is a member of family Paridae but it was long thought to be related to the ground jays because of their morphological similarities. Here we present the ground tit's genome and re-sequence two tits and one ground jay, to clarify this controversially taxonomic status and uncover its genetic adaptations to the Tibetan plateau. Our results show that ground tit groups with two tits and it diverges from them between 7.7 and 9.9 Mya. Compared with other avian genomes, ground tit shows expansion in genes linked to energy metabolism and contractions in genes involved in immune and olfactory perception. We also found positively selected and rapidly evolving genes in hypoxia response and skeletal development. These results indicated that ground tit evolves basic strategies and 'tit-to-jay' change for coping with the life in an extreme environment.}, }
@article {pmid23817269, year = {2013}, author = {Bråtveit, A}, title = {[Magpie's nest and a Marna 8-12 gas engine].}, journal = {Tidsskrift for den Norske laegeforening : tidsskrift for praktisk medicin, ny raekke}, volume = {133}, number = {12-13}, pages = {1339}, doi = {10.4045/tidsskr.13.0160}, pmid = {23817269}, issn = {0807-7096}, mesh = {Colonic Neoplasms/*therapy ; Humans ; Male ; *Palliative Care ; Physician-Patient Relations ; *Terminal Care ; }, }
@article {pmid23806523, year = {2013}, author = {Istvan, MA}, title = {Gould talking past Dawkins on the unit of selection issue.}, journal = {Studies in history and philosophy of biological and biomedical sciences}, volume = {44}, number = {3}, pages = {327-335}, doi = {10.1016/j.shpsc.2013.05.020}, pmid = {23806523}, issn = {1879-2499}, mesh = {Adaptation, Biological ; *Biological Evolution ; Biology/*history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Philosophy ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {My general aim is to clarify the foundational difference between Stephen Jay Gould and Richard Dawkins concerning what biological entities are the units of selection in the process of evolution by natural selection. First, I recapitulate Gould's central objection to Dawkins's view that genes are the exclusive units of selection. According to Gould, it is absurd for Dawkins to think that genes are the exclusive units of selection when, after all, genes are not the exclusive interactors: those agents directly engaged with, directly impacted by, environmental pressures. Second, I argue that Gould's objection still goes through even when we take into consideration Sterelny and Kitcher's defense of gene selectionism in their admirable paper "The Return of the Gene." Third, I propose a strategy for defending Dawkins that I believe obviates Gould's objection. Drawing upon Elisabeth Lloyd's careful taxonomy of the various understandings of the unit of selection at play in the philosophy of biology literature, my proposal involves realizing that Dawkins endorses a different understanding of the unit of selection than Gould holds him to, an understanding that does not require genes to be the exclusive interactors.}, }
@article {pmid23800248, year = {2014}, author = {Kawabata, K and Kobayashi, M and Kusaka-Kikushima, A and Akasaka, E and Mabuchi, T and Fukui, T and Sugiyama, Y and Takekoshi, S and Miyasaka, M and Ozawa, A and Sakai, S}, title = {A new objective histological scale for studying human photoaged skin.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {20}, number = {2}, pages = {155-163}, doi = {10.1111/srt.12099}, pmid = {23800248}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Aged ; Biomarkers/metabolism ; Decorin/*metabolism ; Dermoscopy/methods ; Elastic Tissue/cytology/metabolism ; Female ; Fibrillar Collagens/*metabolism ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Skin/*cytology/*metabolism/radiation effects ; Skin Aging/*physiology/radiation effects ; *Visual Analog Scale ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: A quantitative understanding of the histological alteration of the skin is important for assessing the severity of photoaging.<br><br>METHODS: We performed Elastica-van Gieson staining and immunohistochemistry for decorin on 34 facial skin sections. We evaluated the alteration of collagen fibers and decorin (a modulator for collagen fibrillogenesis), according to the 5 grades of morphological change in elastic fibers that was established by Kligman (1969). The objectivity of a stage (Stages I-VI), which was established in this study, was evaluated using weighted kappa statistical analysis based on the degree of agreement in stage determination by 11 observers using a blind procedure. Correlation between the crow's-feet-area wrinkles grades of another 26 women and stages was also analyzed.<br><br>RESULTS: The initial alteration of elastic fibers was observed in the deep dermis. Decorin was not detected in very severely altered skin. Based on the combination of changes in the elastic fibers, collagenic fibers, and decorin, skin tissues were categorized into 6 stages according to severity. The statistical analysis showed almost perfect agreement between observers. Significant positive correlation between stages and wrinkle scores was found.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: We propose a new objective histological scale that is useful for assessing the severity of photoaging.}, }
@article {pmid23798624, year = {2013}, author = {Chaudhari, S and Otiv, M and Khairnar, B and Pandit, A and Hoge, M and Sayyad, M}, title = {Pune low birth weight study - birth to adulthood - cognitive development.}, journal = {Indian pediatrics}, volume = {50}, number = {9}, pages = {853-857}, doi = {10.1007/s13312-013-0236-4}, pmid = {23798624}, issn = {0974-7559}, mesh = {Birth Weight/*physiology ; Child Development/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; Infant, Small for Gestational Age/*physiology ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Prospective Studies ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To assess the cognitive development of non-handicapped low birth weight (LBW) infants at 18 years.<br><br>DESIGN: Prospective cohort study.<br><br>SETTING: Infants born between 1987 - 1989 with birth weight less than 2000 g and discharged from a neonatal special care unit were followed up till the age of 18 years.<br><br>METHODS: The intelligence quotient (IQ) was determined by Ravens progressive matrices. Assessment of adjustment and aptitude was done.<br><br>RESULTS: The cohort of 161 LBW infants was divided into three groups according to their gestation - preterm SGA (n=61), full term SGA (n=30) and preterm AGA (n=70). 71 full term AGA infants served as controls. The IQ of the study group (Percentile 39.3) was significantly lower than that of controls (Percentile 54.9) (P=0.002). Preterm SGA subjects had the lowest IQ (Percentile 35.5), though just within normal limits. Males from the study group had significantly lower IQ than male controls (P=0.03). The IQ of PTSGA subjects of college educated mothers (P=0.004) and belonging to higher socio-economic class (P=0.04) was significantly higher. On the differential aptitude test, PTSGA subjects were poor in speed and mechanical reasoning. The 18 year IQ could be best predicted by IQ at 6 and 12 years.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Preterm SGA children have the lowest IQ at 18 years, males have lower IQ. Maternal education and socio-economic status have great impact on cognitive development. Good prediction of the 18 year IQ can be done by the 6 and 12 year IQ.}, }
@article {pmid23796117, year = {2013}, author = {Manzoor, S and Hussain, Z and Rahman, SU and Hussain, I}, title = {Identification of antibodies against hydropericardium syndrome in wild birds.}, journal = {British poultry science}, volume = {54}, number = {3}, pages = {325-328}, doi = {10.1080/00071668.2013.791384}, pmid = {23796117}, issn = {1466-1799}, mesh = {Adenoviridae/isolation &amp; purification ; Adenoviridae Infections/immunology/*veterinary ; Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/*blood ; Bird Diseases/*immunology ; Birds/*immunology ; Chickens/immunology ; Columbidae/immunology ; Crows/immunology ; Ducks/immunology ; Heart Diseases/immunology/*virology ; Liver/virology ; Parrots/immunology ; *Pericardium ; Poultry/immunology ; Sparrows/immunology ; }, abstract = {1. Domestic fowl and free-living birds were examined for the presence or absence of antibodies against hydropericardium syndrome (HPS) using an indirect haemagglutination assay. 2. Two-hundred and eighty serum samples of commercial (45 broilers, 20 adult layers and 15 Fayoumi fowl) and wild birds, including 65 peafowl, 45 pigeons, 10 crows, 30 house sparrows, 10 doves, 15 ducks, 10 parrots and 15 guinea fowl, were collected and examined. 3. The percentage of HPS-positive serum samples was 80% in house crows, 78% in pigeons, 7% in house sparrows and 6% in peafowl. 4. The sera obtained from parrots, doves, ducks and guinea fowl were all negative. 5. This study suggests that crows and pigeons could be carriers of the HPS agent.}, }
@article {pmid23795254, year = {2013}, author = {Pooragha, F and Kafi, SM and Sotodeh, SO}, title = {Comparing response inhibition and flexibility for two components of executive functioning in children with autism spectrum disorder and normal children.}, journal = {Iranian journal of pediatrics}, volume = {23}, number = {3}, pages = {309-314}, pmid = {23795254}, issn = {2008-2142}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was investigating and comparing two components of executive functioning in children with high function autism with normal children.<br><br>METHODS: This study was correlation descriptive (causal-comparative). There were two groups, one consisted of 15 participants of children with high function autism disorder (Intelligence quotient [IQ]>80) and the other consisted of 15 normal children, all age and education matched. They were compared with two neuro-cognitive tests, Color Word Stroop and Wisconsin Card Sorting, and one IQ test called Ravens Progressive Matrices test.<br><br>FINDINGS: Analysis of data showed significant difference in both executive functionings, response inhibition (Stroop) and flexibility (Wisconsin Card Sorting) between normal children and children with autism disorder, but there was no significant relation between age and IQ and executive functioning in children with autism.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results showed that children with autism disorder have deficits in executive functions regardless of their IQ level and it can be attributed to the symptoms of autism spectrum disorders.}, }
@article {pmid23792265, year = {2013}, author = {Hasegawa, N and Kitamura, H and Murakami, H and Kameyama, S and Sasagawa, M and Egawa, J and Endo, T and Someya, T}, title = {Neural activity in the posterior superior temporal region during eye contact perception correlates with autistic traits.}, journal = {Neuroscience letters}, volume = {549}, number = {}, pages = {45-50}, doi = {10.1016/j.neulet.2013.05.067}, pmid = {23792265}, issn = {1872-7972}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention/*physiology ; Autistic Disorder/*physiopathology ; Brain Mapping ; Eye ; Facial Expression ; Female ; Humans ; Magnetoencephalography ; Male ; Photic Stimulation ; *Social Perception ; Temporal Lobe/*physiopathology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The present study investigated the relationship between neural activity associated with gaze processing and autistic traits in typically developed subjects using magnetoencephalography. Autistic traits in 24 typically developed college students with normal intelligence were assessed using the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ). The Minimum Current Estimates method was applied to estimate the cortical sources of magnetic responses to gaze stimuli. These stimuli consisted of apparent motion of the eyes, displaying direct or averted gaze motion. Results revealed gaze-related brain activations in the 150-250 ms time window in the right posterior superior temporal sulcus (pSTS), and in the 150-450 ms time window in medial prefrontal regions. In addition, the mean amplitude in the 150-250 ms time window in the right pSTS region was modulated by gaze direction, and its activity in response to direct gaze stimuli correlated with AQ score. pSTS activation in response to direct gaze is thought to be related to higher-order social processes. Thus, these results suggest that brain activity linking eye contact and social signals is associated with autistic traits in a typical population.}, }
@article {pmid23791025, year = {2013}, author = {Fonseca, AL and Albernaz, EP and Kaufmann, CC and Neves, IH and Figueiredo, VL}, title = {Impact of breastfeeding on the intelligence quotient of eight-year-old children.}, journal = {Jornal de pediatria}, volume = {89}, number = {4}, pages = {346-353}, doi = {10.1016/j.jped.2012.12.010}, pmid = {23791025}, issn = {1678-4782}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Brazil ; Breast Feeding/psychology/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Child ; Cognition/physiology ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Regression Analysis ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Time Factors ; Urban Population ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the influence of breastfeeding on the intellectual capacity of children from a cohort in a developing country, with a control for the main confounding factors.<br><br>METHODS: A prospective cohort study was performed including all infants born in the hospitals of a medium-size city, and a random sample of these newborns was monitored at 30, 90, and 180 days of life, and at age 8 years. Several aspects of breastfeeding were assessed in the follow-up and, at 8 years, general intellectual capacity was assessed through the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices test. The statistical analyses used Student's t-test, ANOVA, and linear regression and logistics, considering p-values less than 0.05 as statistically significant associations.<br><br>RESULTS: At age 8 years, 560 children were assessed with Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices test. The average score was 22.56 points, with a standard deviation of 5.93. The difference in the averages found between the breastfed and non-breastfed groups at six months of age was 1.33 (p=0.008). Mother's and child's skin color, social and economic class, maternal education and smoking, and breastfeeding at six months of age (p=0.007) were still associated with the outcome.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Children that were breastfed for six months or more had better performance in the general intellectual assessment, even after adjusting for the main confounding factors.}, }
@article {pmid23777096, year = {2013}, author = {Kuwabara, S}, title = {[Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome: pathophysiology and treatments].}, journal = {Nihon rinsho. Japanese journal of clinical medicine}, volume = {71}, number = {5}, pages = {865-869}, pmid = {23777096}, issn = {0047-1852}, mesh = {Angiogenesis Inhibitors/*therapeutic use ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use ; Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/*therapeutic use ; Bevacizumab ; Humans ; POEMS Syndrome/diagnosis/physiopathology/*therapy ; *Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation/methods ; Thalidomide/*therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {POEMS (polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M-protein, and skin changes) syndrome is a rare multiorgan disorder associated with plasma cell dyscrasia and overproduction of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). VEGF presumably plays an important role in the pathogenesis of the syndrome by its strong action on neo-vasculization and increased vascular permeability. POEMS syndrome is potentially fatal disease, and patients' quality of life deteriorates because of progressive neuropathy and/or massive peripheral edema or pleural effusion/ascites. There is no established treatment regimen. In appropriate candidates, high-dose chemotherapies with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation is recommended, because this treatment could result in obvious improvement in neuropathy as well as other symptoms, with a significant decrease in serum VEGF levels. However, from pooled data, the transplant-related mortality is reported to be 5%, and there is a risk of relapse several years later. Treatments that should be considered as future therapy include thalidomide or lenalidomide, and anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody (bevacizumab).}, }
@article {pmid23773916, year = {2013}, author = {Träff, U}, title = {The contribution of general cognitive abilities and number abilities to different aspects of mathematics in children.}, journal = {Journal of experimental child psychology}, volume = {116}, number = {2}, pages = {139-156}, doi = {10.1016/j.jecp.2013.04.007}, pmid = {23773916}, issn = {1096-0457}, mesh = {Adolescent ; *Aptitude ; Aptitude Tests ; Child ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Mathematics ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving ; Psychological Tests ; }, abstract = {This study examined the relative contributions of general cognitive abilities and number abilities to word problem solving, calculation, and arithmetic fact retrieval in a sample of 134 children aged 10 to 13 years. The following tasks were administered: listening span, visual matrix span, verbal fluency, color naming, Raven's Progressive Matrices, enumeration, number line estimation, and digit comparison. Hierarchical multiple regressions demonstrated that number abilities provided an independent contribution to fact retrieval and word problem solving. General cognitive abilities contributed to problem solving and calculation. All three number tasks accounted for a similar amount of variance in fact retrieval, whereas only the number line estimation task contributed unique variance in word problem solving. Verbal fluency and Raven's matrices accounted for an equal amount of variance in problem solving and calculation. The current findings demonstrate, in accordance with Fuchs and colleagues' developmental model of mathematical learning (Developmental Psychology, 2010, Vol. 46, pp. 1731-1746), that both number abilities and general cognitive abilities underlie 10- to 13-year-olds' proficiency in problem solving, whereas only number abilities underlie arithmetic fact retrieval. Thus, the amount and type of cognitive contribution to arithmetic proficiency varies between the different aspects of arithmetic. Furthermore, how closely linked a specific aspect of arithmetic is to the whole number representation systems is not the only factor determining the amount and type of cognitive contribution in 10- to 13-year-olds. In addition, the mathematical complexity of the task appears to influence the amount and type of cognitive support.}, }
@article {pmid23755164, year = {2013}, author = {Lee, SI and Hwang, S and Joe, YE and Cha, HK and Joo, GH and Lee, HJ and Kim, JW and Jablonski, PG}, title = {Direct look from a predator shortens the risk-assessment time by prey.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {8}, number = {6}, pages = {e64977}, pmid = {23755164}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Escape Reaction ; Humans ; Intention ; Models, Biological ; *Predatory Behavior ; Reaction Time ; Recognition, Psychology ; Songbirds/*physiology ; Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Decision making process is an important component of information use by animals and has already been studied in natural situations. Decision making takes time, which is expressed as a cost in evolutionary explanations of decision making abilities of animals. However, the duration of information assessment and decision making process has not been measured in a natural situation. Here, we use responses of wild magpies (Pica pica) to predictably approaching humans to demonstrate that, regardless of whether the bird perceived high (decided to fly away) or low (resumed foraging) threat level, the bird assessed the situation faster when approaching humans looked directly at it than when the humans were not directly looking at it. This indicates that prey is able to extract more information about the predator's intentions and to respond sooner when the predator is continuously ("intently") looking at the prey. The results generally illustrate how an increase of information available to an individual leads to a shorter assessment and decision making process, confirming one of central tenets of psychology of information use in a wild bird species in its natural habitat.}, }
@article {pmid23728584, year = {2014}, author = {Bogale, BA and Sugita, S}, title = {Shape discrimination and concept formation in the jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {17}, number = {1}, pages = {105-111}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-013-0642-y}, pmid = {23728584}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Concept Formation ; Conditioning, Operant ; *Crows/physiology ; Cues ; Discrimination, Psychological ; Female ; *Form Perception ; Male ; Photic Stimulation ; }, abstract = {We investigated whether jungle crows can learn concepts by using printouts of shapes in a simultaneous two-alternative task. Jungle crows were first trained with a red triangle and red square until they reached the discrimination criterion (80% of correct choices in two blocks of 10 trials each). Then, we tested crows with successive transfer tests to investigate both the discrimination cues being used and concept formation ability, by using novel triangular and non-triangular stimuli. All of the jungle crows learnt to discriminate between the triangle and square during training. The discrimination performance was generally not affected either by changes in the colour of the stimuli or when both shape and colour cues conflicted, with the previously non-rewarded shape but matching colour (red square) versus rewarded shape but non-matching colour (green triangle). The use of only outlines of the familiar stimuli also did not affect discrimination behaviour of crows. In addition, crows significantly discriminated novel triangular shapes during the limited trials given, suggesting their ability to form the concept of triangularity. However, failure to discriminate when the novel stimuli size deviated from the original suggests that there is a limit to shape concept formation in a familiar-novel context in the jungle crow.}, }
@article {pmid23725307, year = {2013}, author = {Hong, YH and Jung, EY and Shin, KS and Yu, KW and Chang, UJ and Suh, HJ}, title = {Tannase-converted green tea catechins and their anti-wrinkle activity in humans.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {137-143}, doi = {10.1111/jocd.12038}, pmid = {23725307}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Adult ; Carboxylic Ester Hydrolases/chemistry ; Catechin/*analogs &amp; derivatives/analysis/*pharmacology ; Diagnostic Self Evaluation ; Face ; Female ; Free Radical Scavengers/*pharmacology ; Gallic Acid/analysis/*pharmacology ; Humans ; Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted ; Middle Aged ; Phytotherapy ; Plant Extracts/chemistry/*pharmacology ; Skin Aging/*drug effects/pathology ; Tea ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study was performed to investigate the anti-wrinkle effects of topical applications of green tea extract with high antioxidant activity by tannase treatment. Increases in gallic acid (GA), (-)-epigallocatechin (EGC), and (-)-epicatechin (EC) were observed in the green tea extract after tannase treatment.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: This study was performed to investigate the anti-wrinkle effects of topical applications of green tea extract exhibiting high antioxidant activity after tannase treatment.<br><br>METHODS: Subjects, randomly divided into two groups, received the application of either tannase-converted green tea extract (TGE) or normal green tea extract (NGE) on their crow's feet for 8 weeks. The anti-wrinkle effects were evaluated with two methods: (i) self-assessment; and (ii) average roughness of skin surface (R(a), R(z), and R(t) value) using skin replica and Skin-Visiometer SV 600.<br><br>RESULTS: The scavenging abilities of TGE against radicals were significantly higher compared to NGE. The evaluation of skin wrinkle index values after 8 weeks of treatment showed that reductions of R(a), R(z), and R(t) values in the TGE group were significantly greater than in the NGE group, which indicated that tannase treatment improved the anti-wrinkle effects of green tea extract. According to the overall ratings for wrinkle treatment by applying the formulations, most of the TGE group (63.60%) reported marked or moderate improvement in wrinkles compared with only 36.30% of the NGE group.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Tannase treatment can improve the antioxidant activity of green tea extract, conferring anti-wrinkle activities. These results suggest that TGE may have beneficial properties as an anti-wrinkle agent.}, }
@article {pmid23724892, year = {2014}, author = {Luebberding, S and Krueger, N and Kerscher, M}, title = {Comparison of Validated Assessment Scales and 3D digital fringe projection method to assess lifetime development of wrinkles in men.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {30-36}, doi = {10.1111/srt.12079}, pmid = {23724892}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aging/*physiology ; *Algorithms ; Dermoscopy/*methods ; Forehead/anatomy &amp; histology ; Humans ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional/*methods ; Lighting/*methods ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Photography/methods ; Reference Values ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Skin/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Skin Aging/*physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The assessment of wrinkle severity is an important evaluation criterion to determine the efficacy of aesthetic treatments. Aim of the present study was to compare Validated Assessment Scales (VAS) and 3D fringe projection (PRIMOS(®)) for the evaluation of facial wrinkles in men and to determine standard values for each level of the VAS.<br><br>METHODS: 150 male subjects (20 to 70 years) were selected following strict criteria. Wrinkle severity at periorbital, glabella and forehead lines was evaluated using the 3D fringe projection and 5-point photonumeric VAS. The results of both methods were matched by determining quantitative values for each level of the clinical rating scale.<br><br>RESULTS: High average correlation with age was found for VAS, Wd, maxWd, lWd, Wv, aWa and pWa. With a Wd of 60 to 70&#x3bc;m crow's feet and forehead lines are pronounced first, whereas glabella lines develop in subject's mid-forties, by an Wd of 180&#x3bc;m. Wrinkle severity increases at all locations every 10 years of age by one level of the VAS. This increase corresponds to an increase of Wd about 100 &#x3bc;m at glabella and forehead lines, and about 50 &#x3bc;m at crow's feet.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The presented reference values for the Validated Assessment Scale are an important step towards an optimized assessment of skin aging and aesthetic dermatological treatments. The data helps to combine the precession of a biophysical measurement with the practical relevance of a clinical rating.}, }
@article {pmid23713242, year = {2013}, author = {Wang, GQ and Wang, MS and Tong, GA and Sun, DD and Zhang, L and Hu, WB}, title = {[Study on correlation between neuropsychological features and Chinese medical syndrome types in patients with Wilson's disease].}, journal = {Zhongguo Zhong xi yi jie he za zhi Zhongguo Zhongxiyi jiehe zazhi = Chinese journal of integrated traditional and Western medicine}, volume = {33}, number = {3}, pages = {318-321}, pmid = {23713242}, issn = {1003-5370}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Female ; Hepatolenticular Degeneration/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Humans ; Male ; Medicine, Chinese Traditional/*methods ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Yang Deficiency/diagnosis/psychology ; Yin Deficiency/diagnosis/psychology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To explore the correlation between neuropsychological features and Chinese medical syndrome types in Wilson's disease (WD) patients, thus providing evidence for early intervention by syndrome typing.<br><br>METHODS: Totally 96 WD patients were assigned to Gan-Dan damp-heat syndrome (GDDHS, 31 cases), Gan-Shen yin deficiency syndrome (GSYDS, 47 cases), and qi-blood deficiency syndrome (QBDS, 18 cases) by syndrome typing. Three items of neuropsychological testing were performed in them, i.e., Raven's standard progressive matrices (R'SPM), Stroop color-word test (CWT), trail making test (TMT). The correlations between the integrals of Chinese medical syndrome types and results of the 3 tests were analyzed.<br><br>RESULTS: (1) There was statistical difference in the total scores of R'SPM, the word interference time of CWT, and interference effects of TMT among the 3 syndrome types (P <0.01, P <0.05). There was statistical difference in the total scores of R'SPM and the word interference time of CWT in patients of QBDS, when compared with those of GDDHS and GSYDS (P <0.05). There was statistical difference in interference effects of TMT in patients of GDDHS, when compared with those of QBDS and GSYDS (P <0.05). (2) The integrals of the 3 syndrome types were negatively correlated with the total scores of R'SPM (P <0.01). The integral of GDDHS was significantly positively correlated with the interference effects of TMT (P <0.01). The integral of GSYDS was significantly positively correlated with TMT-B time consumption and interference effects of TMT (P <0. 05). The integral of QBDS was significantly positively correlated with the word interference time of CWT (P <0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: There was correlation between neuropsychological changes of WD patients and Chinese medical syndrome types. The severity of asthenia syndrome was sequenced from high to low as QBDS > GSYDS > GDDHS. The severity of asthenia was higher than that of asthenia.}, }
@article {pmid23708242, year = {2014}, author = {Mole, B}, title = {Accordion wrinkle treatment through the targeted use of botulinum toxin injections.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {38}, number = {2}, pages = {419-428}, doi = {10.1007/s00266-013-0134-0}, pmid = {23708242}, issn = {1432-5241}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Cohort Studies ; Drug Delivery Systems/*methods ; Esthetics ; *Face ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Injections, Subcutaneous ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Patient Satisfaction/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Rejuvenation ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: The term "accordion facies" is used to define a face that has been streaked by an extended network of wrinkles stretching from the orbital frame up to the temples and neck. Although the origin of these wrinkles seems to be the mime muscle effect, it also may be linked to the presence of acetylcholine skin receptors in the superficial skin. This would certainly explain the reason for the presence of these wrinkles far from the muscle areas. Therefore, very superficial and targeted injections of diluted botulinum toxin A can be offered. In the case of strongly dehydrated skin, the toxin may be combined with a weak or not reticulated hyaluronic acid. The use of thin cannulas offers an advanced treatment especially in the resistant crow's feet area with a single entry point and a lower risk of ecchymotic incidents. The results are quite impressive and offer real new options in the management of the aging process. The main drawback remains the risk of unexpected diffusions to the great zygomatic muscle, with some distortion in the extreme smile. Therefore, dilution (up to 3 times) and very precise injections are strongly recommended, especially in the para-commissural area. This report presents a case study of 44 patients who received this treatment, with a follow-up period of 1-25 months. To date, these particularly striking facial distortions had not received a satisfactory answer.<br><br>LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .}, }
@article {pmid23701744, year = {2014}, author = {Tran, C and Michelet, JF and Simonetti, L and Fiat, F and Garrigues, A and Potter, A and Segot, E and Watson, RE and Griffiths, CE and de Lacharrière, O}, title = {In vitro and in vivo studies with tetra-hydro-jasmonic acid (LR2412) reveal its potential to correct signs of skin ageing.}, journal = {Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV}, volume = {28}, number = {4}, pages = {415-423}, doi = {10.1111/jdv.12113}, pmid = {23701744}, issn = {1468-3083}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Cyclopentanes/*pharmacology ; Female ; Humans ; In Vitro Techniques ; Male ; Microscopy, Electron, Transmission ; Middle Aged ; Oxylipins/*pharmacology ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; X-Ray Diffraction ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: LR2412, a synthetic derivative of jasmonic acid, improved the reconstruction and homeostasis of our organotypic skin models.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The need for efficient 'anti-ageing' treatments, in particular for the management of photoaged skin, prompted us to investigate this new ingredient for its potential to correct signs of skin ageing in vitro and in vivo and to identify its mode of action.<br><br>RESULTS: In vitro, penetration of LR2412 was evaluated using a Franz diffusion cell on excised human skin. Its exfoliating properties and interactions with the stratum corneum were studied using electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Experiments were performed on a human reconstructed skin model. In vivo, the effects of LR2412 on steroid-induced skin atrophy, a clinical skin ageing model, were assessed vs. vehicle. A patch test study evaluated its effect on deposition of fibrillin-rich microfibrils in the papillary dermis in clinically photoaged volunteers. A clinical study on the appearance of crow's feet wrinkles was conducted over 3 months of daily application. Penetration studies revealed that LR2412 reaches viable epidermis and superficial dermis, which are skin targets of anti-ageing actives. Within the upper layers of the stratum corneum LR2412 accelerates desquamation and improves the mechanical properties. At the dermal-epidermal junction of reconstructed skin, collagen IV, laminin-5 and fibrillin were stimulated. In vivo, LR2412 reversed steroid-induced atrophy. The patch test model confirms the deposition of fibrillin-rich microfibrils, then an in use clinical study revealed that it reduced facial wrinkles.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The in vitro and in vivo data demonstrate that based on its multiple interactions within human skin, LR2412 has potential to partially correct the signs of ageing in intrinsically and photoaged skin.}, }
@article {pmid23695905, year = {2013}, author = {Peach, RK}, title = {The cognitive basis for sentence planning difficulties in discourse after traumatic brain injury.}, journal = {American journal of speech-language pathology}, volume = {22}, number = {2}, pages = {S285-97}, doi = {10.1044/1058-0360(2013/12-0081)}, pmid = {23695905}, issn = {1558-9110}, mesh = {Adult ; Attention/physiology ; Brain Injuries/complications/*physiopathology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/etiology/physiopathology ; Executive Function/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Language Disorders/etiology/*physiopathology ; Language Tests ; *Linguistics ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Speech Production Measurement ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: Analyses of language production of individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) place increasing emphasis on microlinguistic (i.e., within-sentence) patterns. It is unknown whether the observed problems involve implementation of well-formed sentence frames or represent a fundamental linguistic disturbance in computing sentence structure. This study investigated the cognitive basis for microlinguistic deficits in individuals with TBI.<br><br>METHOD: Fifteen nonaphasic individuals with severe TBI and 6 age- and education-matched non brain-injured adults participated in this study. Monologic discourse samples were analyzed for pausing patterns, mazes, errors, and abandoned utterances. Measures of cognitive abilities were correlated with the sentence measures.<br><br>RESULTS: The speakers with TBI produced more pauses between clauses (but not within clauses) as well as more mazes than did the non brain-injured speakers. Significant regression models were built. Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (Raven, 1965), a measure associated with working memory, predicted pause behavior, and Likenesses-Differences (Baker &amp; Leland, 1967), a measure of executive function, predicted maze behavior.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Sentence planning impairments following TBI are associated with deficient organization and monitoring of language representations in working memory. These findings suggest that the deficits are due to problems in the recruitment and control of attention for sentence planning. These findings bear on sentence processing models that emphasize the activation, organization, and maintenance of language representations for accurate sentence production.}, }
@article {pmid23681287, year = {2013}, author = {Norris, DR and Flockhart, DT and Strickland, D}, title = {Contrasting patterns of survival and dispersal in multiple habitats reveal an ecological trap in a food-caching bird.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {173}, number = {3}, pages = {827-835}, pmid = {23681287}, issn = {1432-1939}, mesh = {Animal Distribution/*physiology ; Animals ; *Ecosystem ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Likelihood Functions ; Longitudinal Studies ; *Models, Biological ; Ontario ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Reproduction/physiology ; Seasons ; Survival Analysis ; Tracheophyta ; }, abstract = {A comprehensive understanding of how natural and anthropogenic variation in habitat influences populations requires long-term information on how such variation affects survival and dispersal throughout the annual cycle. Gray jays Perisoreus canadensis are widespread boreal resident passerines that use cached food to survive over the winter and to begin breeding during the late winter. Using multistate capture-recapture analysis, we examined apparent survival and dispersal in relation to habitat quality in a gray jay population over 34 years (1977-2010). Prior evidence suggests that natural variation in habitat quality is driven by the proportion of conifers on territories because of their superior ability to preserve cached food. Although neither adults (>1 year) nor juveniles (<1 year) had higher survival rates on high-conifer territories, both age classes were less likely to leave high-conifer territories and, when they did move, were more likely to disperse to high-conifer territories. In contrast, survival rates were lower on territories that were adjacent to a major highway compared to territories that did not border the highway but there was no evidence for directional dispersal towards or away from highway territories. Our results support the notion that natural variation in habitat quality is driven by the proportion of coniferous trees on territories and provide the first evidence that high-mortality highway habitats can act as an equal-preference ecological trap for birds. Reproductive success, as shown in a previous study, but not survival, is sensitive to natural variation in habitat quality, suggesting that gray jays, despite living in harsh winter conditions, likely favor the allocation of limited resources towards self-maintenance over reproduction.}, }
@article {pmid23676591, year = {2013}, author = {Yokokawa, T and Nakazato, K and Kanno, Y and Mizukami, H and Kobayashi, A and Yoshihisa, A and Takahashi, H and Shichishima-Nakamura, A and Ohkawara, H and Noji, H and Suzuki, H and Saitoh, S and Ogawa, K and Hisa, S and Takeishi, Y}, title = {Pulmonary hypertension and refractory heart failure in a patient with Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome.}, journal = {Internal medicine (Tokyo, Japan)}, volume = {52}, number = {10}, pages = {1061-1065}, doi = {10.2169/internalmedicine.52.9256}, pmid = {23676591}, issn = {1349-7235}, mesh = {Aged ; Dexamethasone/administration &amp; dosage/therapeutic use ; Diuretics/therapeutic use ; Drug Resistance ; Edema/etiology ; Furosemide/therapeutic use ; Heart Failure/*etiology ; Humans ; Hypertension, Pulmonary/*etiology ; Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/diagnostic imaging/etiology ; Male ; Melphalan/administration &amp; dosage/therapeutic use ; POEMS Syndrome/blood/*complications/diagnosis/drug therapy ; Polysomnography ; Prednisolone/administration &amp; dosage/therapeutic use ; Pulmonary Wedge Pressure ; Sleep Apnea Syndromes/diagnosis/etiology ; Thalidomide/administration &amp; dosage/therapeutic use ; Ultrasonography ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/blood ; Ventricular Dysfunction, Left/etiology/physiopathology ; }, abstract = {We experienced the case of a 67-year-old man with refractory heart failure. He presented with dyspnea and progressive pitting edema of the lower limbs. Diuretics were insufficient to improve his symptoms. Cardiac catheterization demonstrated pulmonary hypertension. Additional examinations confirmed polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy and monoclonal gammopathy. The plasma vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) level was 1,340 pg/mL. The patient was diagnosed with Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome. Echocardiography detected left ventricular hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction. Polysomnography demonstrated severe sleep-disordered breathing. We herein describe a case of pulmonary hypertension with Crow-Fukase syndrome accompanied by left ventricular diastolic dysfunction and sleep-disordered breathing.}, }
@article {pmid23668696, year = {2013}, author = {Shaw, RC and Plotnik, JM and Clayton, NS}, title = {Exclusion in corvids: the performance of food-caching Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius).}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {127}, number = {4}, pages = {428-435}, doi = {10.1037/a0032010}, pmid = {23668696}, issn = {1939-2087}, mesh = {Animals ; Auditory Perception/*physiology ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Choice Behavior/*physiology ; Cues ; Food/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Random Allocation ; *Reward ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Choice by exclusion involves selecting a rewarded stimulus by rejecting alternatives that are unlikely to be rewarded. It has been proposed that in corvids, exclusion is an adaptive specialization for caching that, together with object permanence and observational spatial memory, enhances a bird's ability to keep track of the contents of caches. Thus, caching species are predicted to perform well in tasks requiring exclusion. We tested this prediction by assessing the performance of Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius), a highly specialized cacher, in a two-way object choice task in which food was hidden in 1 of 2 cups. Consistent with the corvids' capacity for observational spatial memory, jays were highly accurate when shown the location of the food reward. However, the jays failed to exclude the empty cup when shown its contents. This failure to select the baited cup when shown the empty cup was possibly due to jays attending to the experimenter's movements and erroneously selecting the empty cup by responding to these local enhancement cues. To date, no corvids have been tested in an auditory two-way object choice task. Testing exclusion in the auditory domain requires that a bird use the noise produced when the baited cup is shaken to locate the reward. Although jays chose the baited cup more frequently than predicted by chance, their performance did not differ from trials controlling for the use of conflicting cues provided by the experimenter. Overall, our results provide little support for the hypothesis that caching has shaped exclusion abilities in corvids.}, }
@article {pmid23662850, year = {2013}, author = {Yin Foo, R and Guppy, M and Johnston, LM}, title = {Intelligence assessments for children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review.}, journal = {Developmental medicine and child neurology}, volume = {55}, number = {10}, pages = {911-918}, doi = {10.1111/dmcn.12157}, pmid = {23662850}, issn = {1469-8749}, mesh = {Cerebral Palsy/*complications ; Child ; Databases, Factual/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*diagnosis/*etiology ; *Intelligence Tests ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Quality Assurance, Health Care ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {AIM: Cerebral palsy (CP) is defined as a primary disorder of posture and movement; however, approximately 45% of children with CP also have an intellectual impairment. Prevalence estimates are limited by a lack of guidelines for intelligence testing. This systematic review aims to identify and examine intelligence assessments for children with CP.<br><br>METHOD: Electronic databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, CINAHL, EMBASE, and ERIC) were searched to identify assessments that (1) measured intellectual function, (2) in children aged 4 to 18 years, (3) with CP, and (4) with psychometrics available.<br><br>RESULTS: Searches yielded 48 assessments, of which nine provided psychometric data for children with CP. The included tests were the Columbia Mental Maturity Scale, the Leiter International Performance Scale, the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test, the Pictorial Test of Intelligence, the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales, the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, and the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence.<br><br>INTERPRETATION: Intelligence assessments in children with CP lack reliability data, consensus regarding validity data, and population-specific norms. Research is required to establish psychometrics for children with CP. For children with higher motor involvement and/or communication and/or visual impairments, multiple options are required to assess intelligence appropriately.}, }
@article {pmid23659111, year = {2013}, author = {Bagotskaia, MS and Smirnova, AA and Zorina, ZA}, title = {[Solution of trap tube test by hooded crows (Corvus cornix L.)].}, journal = {Zhurnal obshchei biologii}, volume = {74}, number = {1}, pages = {23-33}, pmid = {23659111}, issn = {0044-4596}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Cognition/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Learning/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Eight hooded crows (Corvus cornix L.) were tested for their ability to use a piston (a stick with two attached clear plates between which the food is enclosed such that moving the stick would move the food) to get the reward out of a transparent tube avoiding a trap. Six out of eight crows learned to use a piston to extract a food reward from a transparent non-trap tube. One out of these six birds successfully performed the task in which it had to avoid a trap to retrieve a reward, in the first trial showing spontaneous comprehending of the task structure. Four crows learned to perform this task using the trial-and-error method. To find out a mechanism these crows used to perform the task, birds were presented with two transfer tasks (tests) in which we changed the relative positions of components in the apparatus. We found out that crows performed transfer tasks using rather concrete rules than immediate estimation of the relative positions of the components in the apparatus.}, }
@article {pmid23658556, year = {2013}, author = {Azpeitia, E and Weinstein, N and Benítez, M and Mendoza, L and Alvarez-Buylla, ER}, title = {Finding Missing Interactions of the Arabidopsis thaliana Root Stem Cell Niche Gene Regulatory Network.}, journal = {Frontiers in plant science}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {110}, pmid = {23658556}, issn = {1664-462X}, abstract = {Over the last few decades, the Arabidopsis thaliana root stem cell niche (RSCN) has become a model system for the study of plant development and stem cell niche dynamics. Currently, many of the molecular mechanisms involved in RSCN maintenance and development have been described. A few years ago, we published a gene regulatory network (GRN) model integrating this information. This model suggested that there were missing components or interactions. Upon updating the model, the observed stable gene configurations of the RSCN could not be recovered, indicating that there are additional missing components or interactions in the model. In fact, due to the lack of experimental data, GRNs inferred from published data are usually incomplete. However, predicting the location and nature of the missing data is a not trivial task. Here, we propose a set of procedures for detecting and predicting missing interactions in Boolean networks. We used these procedures to predict putative missing interactions in the A. thaliana RSCN network model. Using our approach, we identified three necessary interactions to recover the reported gene activation configurations that have been experimentally uncovered for the different cell types within the RSCN: (1) a regulation of PHABULOSA to restrict its expression domain to the vascular cells, (2) a self-regulation of WOX5, possibly by an indirect mechanism through the auxin signaling pathway, and (3) a positive regulation of JACKDAW by MAGPIE. The procedures proposed here greatly reduce the number of possible Boolean functions that are biologically meaningful and experimentally testable and that do not contradict previous data. We believe that these procedures can be used on any Boolean network. However, because the procedures were designed for the specific case of the RSCN, formal demonstrations of the procedures should be shown in future efforts.}, }
@article {pmid23652947, year = {2013}, author = {Gold, MH and Kircik, LH and Bucay, VW and Kiripolsky, MG and Biron, JA}, title = {Treatment of facial photodamage using a novel retinol formulation.}, journal = {Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD}, volume = {12}, number = {5}, pages = {533-540}, pmid = {23652947}, issn = {1545-9616}, mesh = {Administration, Cutaneous ; Adult ; Aged ; Dermatologic Agents/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Double-Blind Method ; Face ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Pilot Projects ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; Ultraviolet Rays/adverse effects ; Vitamin A/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Photoaged skin is characterized by a variety of clinical, histologic, and biochemical features.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy of a new topical formulation of 1% retinol and the effects of this same formulation using a 0.5% retinol concentration to minimize irritation.<br><br>METHODS: Patients at 2 sites (n=6, n=5) with photodamaged skin applied a novel suspension of retinol (1%) daily to their faces for 8 to 12 weeks. Clinicians graded improvement in ultraviolet-induced features at 4 to 6 weeks and at 8 to 12 weeks. Positive results of the observational pilot study warranted a follow-up study on the low concentration. At a third site, females (n=30) with facial photodamage applied the same formulation with or without retinol (0.5%) daily for 8 weeks. Twenty-two subjects applied the test product and 8 applied vehicle according to a randomized, double-blinded, institutional review board-approved protocol. Improvements in photodamage features were graded at 4 and 8 weeks.<br><br>RESULTS: In the observational pilot study, most participants showed improvement in overall photodamage, crow's feet, elasticity,wrinkles, brightness, and hyperpigmentation at 60 to 80 days. Improvements at 60 to 80 days were greater than at 30 to 46 days. In the low-concentration study with 0.5% retinol, improvements were modest, most likely due to the lower retinol concentration. Burning, pruritus, dryness, and erythema were minimal with the 0.5% retinol concentration.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The topical formulation of 1% retinol improves photodamaged skin for at least 8 to 12 weeks. Although improvements with the 0.5% retinol were more modest, side effects such as burning, dryness, pruritus, and erythema during the 8-week study period were minimal. These encouraging results justify a longer-term study to determine whether topically applied 0.5% retinol can provide benefits comparable with those seen with topically applied 1% retinol.}, }
@article {pmid23652768, year = {2014}, author = {Abdelrazec, A and Lenhart, S and Zhu, H}, title = {Transmission dynamics of West Nile virus in mosquitoes and corvids and non-corvids.}, journal = {Journal of mathematical biology}, volume = {68}, number = {6}, pages = {1553-1582}, pmid = {23652768}, issn = {1432-1416}, mesh = {Animals ; Basic Reproduction Number ; Computer Simulation ; Crows/*virology ; Culicidae/*virology ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; *Models, Theoretical ; West Nile Fever/*transmission/virology ; West Nile virus/*growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {There are more than 300 avian species that can transmit West Nile virus (WNv). In general, the corvid and non-corvid families of birds have different responses to the virus, with corvids suffering a higher disease-induced mortality rate. By taking both corvids and non-corvids as the primary reservoir hosts and mosquitoes as vectors; we formulate and study a system of ordinary differential equations to model a single season of the transmission dynamics of WNv in the mosquito-bird cycle. We calculate the basic reproduction number and analyze the existence and stability of the equilibria. The existence of a backward bifurcation gives a further sub-threshold condition beyond the basic reproduction number for the spread of the virus. We also discuss the role of corvids and non-corvids in spreading the virus. We conclude that knowledge of the relative abundance of corvid bird species and other mammals assist us in accurate estimation of the epidemic of WNv.}, }
@article {pmid23643447, year = {2013}, author = {Perez, M}, title = {Evolutionary activism: Stephen Jay Gould, the New Left and sociobiology.}, journal = {Endeavour}, volume = {37}, number = {2}, pages = {104-111}, doi = {10.1016/j.endeavour.2012.10.002}, pmid = {23643447}, issn = {1873-1929}, mesh = {Anthropology, Physical/*history ; Biological Evolution ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Paleontology/*history ; Research ; Research Personnel/*history ; Sociobiology/*history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid23638394, year = {2013}, author = {Koboroff, A and Kaplan, G and Rogers, Lj}, title = {Clever strategists: Australian Magpies vary mobbing strategies, not intensity, relative to different species of predator.}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {1}, number = {}, pages = {e56}, pmid = {23638394}, issn = {2167-8359}, abstract = {Anti-predator behaviour of magpies was investigated, using five species of model predators, at times of raising offspring. We predicted differences in mobbing strategies for each predator presented and also that raising juveniles would affect intensity of the mobbing event. Fourteen permanent resident family groups were tested using 5 different types of predator (avian and reptilian) known to be of varying degrees of risk to magpies and common in their habitat. In all, 210 trials were conducted (across three different stages of juvenile development). We found that the stage of juvenile development did not alter mobbing behaviour significantly, but predator type did. Aerial strategies (such as swooping) were elicited by taxidermic models of raptors, whereas a taxidermic model of a monitor lizard was approached on the ground and a model snake was rarely approached. Swooping patterns also changed according to which of the three raptors was presented. Our results show that, in contrast to findings in other species, magpies vary mobbing strategy depending on the predator rather than varying mobbing intensity.}, }
@article {pmid23612306, year = {2013}, author = {Vail, AL and Manica, A and Bshary, R}, title = {Referential gestures in fish collaborative hunting.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {1765}, pmid = {23612306}, issn = {2041-1723}, mesh = {*Animal Communication ; Animals ; Anthozoa/physiology ; *Cooperative Behavior ; Fishes/*physiology ; *Gestures ; Octopodiformes/physiology ; Predatory Behavior/*physiology ; Trout/physiology ; }, abstract = {In humans, referential gestures intentionally draw the attention of a partner to an object of mutual interest, and are considered a key element in language development. Outside humans, referential gestures have only been attributed to great apes and, most recently, ravens. This was interpreted as further evidence for the comparable cognitive abilities of primates and corvids. Here we describe a signal that coral reef fishes, the grouper Plectropomus pessuliferus marisrubri and coral trout Plectropomus leopardus, use to indicate hidden prey to cooperative hunting partners, including giant moray eels Gymnothorax javanicus, Napoleon wrasses Chelinus undulatus and octopuses Octopus cyanea. We provide evidence that the signal possesses the five attributes proposed to infer a referential gesture: it is directed towards an object, mechanically ineffective, directed towards a potential recipient, receives a voluntary response and demonstrates hallmarks of intentionality. Thus, referential gesture use is not restricted to large-brained vertebrates.}, }
@article {pmid23606347, year = {2013}, author = {Saperstein, A and Gullickson, A}, title = {A "mulatto escape hatch" in the United States? Examining evidence of racial and social mobility during the Jim Crow era.}, journal = {Demography}, volume = {50}, number = {5}, pages = {1921-1942}, pmid = {23606347}, issn = {0070-3370}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Black or African American/history ; Aged ; Censuses/*history ; Female ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Occupations/history/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Racial Groups/classification/*history ; Social Mobility/*history ; United States ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Racial distinctions in the United States have long been characterized as uniquely rigid and governed by strict rules of descent, particularly along the black-white boundary. This is often contrasted with countries, such as Brazil, that recognize "mixed" or intermediate racial categories and allow for more fluidity or ambiguity in racial classification. Recently released longitudinal data from the IPUMS Linked Representative Samples, and the brief inclusion of a "mulatto" category in the U.S. Census, allow us to subject this generally accepted wisdom to empirical test for the 1870-1920 period. We find substantial fluidity in black-mulatto classification between censuses-including notable "downward" racial mobility. Using person fixed-effects models, we also find evidence that among Southern men, the likelihood of being classified as mulatto was related to intercensal changes in occupational status. These findings have implications for studies of race and inequality in the United States, cross-national research on racial classification schemes in the Americas, and for how demographers collect and interpret racial data.}, }
@article {pmid23595348, year = {2013}, author = {Titah, HS and Abdullah, SR and Mushrifah, I and Anuar, N and Basri, H and Mukhlisin, M}, title = {Arsenic toxicity on Ludwigia octovalvis in spiked sand.}, journal = {Bulletin of environmental contamination and toxicology}, volume = {90}, number = {6}, pages = {714-719}, doi = {10.1007/s00128-013-0996-5}, pmid = {23595348}, issn = {1432-0800}, mesh = {Arsenic/*toxicity ; Biomass ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Onagraceae/*drug effects ; *Silicon Dioxide ; Soil Pollutants/*toxicity ; }, abstract = {Wilting, especially of the leaves, was observed as an initial symptom of arsenate [As(V)] to Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) P. H. Raven. The plants tolerated As(V) levels of 39 mg kg[-1] for as long as 35 days of exposure. After 91 days, the maximum concentration of As uptake in the plant occurred at As(V) concentration of 65 mg kg[-1] while As concentration in the stems, roots and leaves were 6139.9 ± 829.5, 1284.5 ± 242.9 and 1126.1 ± 117.2 mg kg[-1], respectively. In conclusion, As(V) could cause toxic effects in L. octovalvis and the plants could uptake and accumulate As in plant tissues.}, }
@article {pmid23588083, year = {2013}, author = {Mrozek-Budzyn, D and Kiełtyka, A and Majewska, R and Augustyniak, M}, title = {Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination has no effect on cognitive development in children - the results of the Polish prospective cohort study.}, journal = {Vaccine}, volume = {31}, number = {22}, pages = {2551-2557}, pmid = {23588083}, issn = {1873-2518}, support = {R01 ES010165/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 ES015282/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; R01ES015282/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; R01ES010165/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Cognition Disorders/*chemically induced/immunology ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Measles Vaccine/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/immunology ; Measles-Mumps-Rubella Vaccine/*administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects/immunology ; Mothers ; Poland ; Prospective Studies ; Vaccination/adverse effects ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to examine the hypothesis that MMR exposure has a negative influence on cognitive development in children. Furthermore, MMR was compared to single measles vaccine to determine the potential difference of these vaccines safety regarding children's cognitive development.<br><br>METHODS: The prospective birth cohort study with sample consisted of 369 infants born in Krakow. Vaccination history against measles (date and the type of the vaccine) was extracted from physicians' records. Child development was assessed using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development (BSID-II) up to 3rd year of life, Raven test in 5th and 8th year and Wechsler (WISC-R) in 6th and 7th year. Data on possible confounders came from mothers' interview, medical records and analyses of lead and mercury level at birth and at the end of 5th year of life. Linear and logistic regression models adjusted for potential confounders were used to assess the association.<br><br>RESULTS: No significant differences in cognitive and intelligence tests results were observed between children vaccinated with MMR and those not vaccinated up to the end of the 2nd year of life. Children vaccinated with MMR had significantly higher Mental BSID-II Index (MDI) in the 36th month than those vaccinated with single measles vaccine (103.8&#xb1;10.3 vs. 97.2&#xb1;11.2, p=0.004). Neither results of Raven test nor WISC-R were significantly different between groups of children vaccinated with MMR and with single measles vaccine. After standardization to child's gender, maternal education, family economical status, maternal IQ, birth order and passive smoking all developmental tests were statistically insignificant.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results suggest that there is no relationship between MMR exposure and children's cognitive development. Furthermore, the safety of triple MMR is the same as the single measles vaccine with respect to cognitive development.}, }
@article {pmid23578706, year = {2013}, author = {Drake, B and Paterson, R and Cushing, T and Tabin, G and Butler, F}, title = {Reply to Dr Jay Zimmermann's letter.}, journal = {Wilderness &amp; environmental medicine}, volume = {24}, number = {2}, pages = {182-183}, doi = {10.1016/j.wem.2013.01.007}, pmid = {23578706}, issn = {1545-1534}, mesh = {Eye Diseases/*therapy ; Eye Injuries/*therapy ; Humans ; *Practice Patterns, Physicians' ; Wilderness Medicine/*standards ; }, }
@article {pmid23568622, year = {2013}, author = {Kawashima, M and Yokose, U and Hachiya, A and Fujimura, T and Tsukahara, K and Kawada, H and Kitahara, T and Takema, Y and Terui, T and Nakagawa, H}, title = {Improvement of crow's feet lines by topical application of 1-carbamimidoyl-L-proline (CLP).}, journal = {European journal of dermatology : EJD}, volume = {23}, number = {2}, pages = {195-201}, doi = {10.1684/ejd.2013.1964}, pmid = {23568622}, issn = {1952-4013}, mesh = {Administration, Topical ; Adult ; Double-Blind Method ; Elasticity/drug effects ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Proline/*analogs &amp; derivatives/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Rheology ; Skin/drug effects ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; }, abstract = {Wrinkles, one of the characteristics of chronic sun-damaged and/or aged skin, are associated with psychological distress. Apart from the deterioration of collagen and elastic fibers in the dermis, which induces the loss of skin elasticity, it has been recently proposed that decreased flexibility or elasticity of the stratum corneum (SC) is also correlated with wrinkle formation. The elasticity of the SC has been shown to be regulated, at least in part, by the amounts and types of amino acids. To evaluate the ability of our newly developed amino acid-derivative (1-carbamimidoyl-L-proline; CLP), which recovers the elastic properties of the SC ex vivo, to improve wrinkles, a clinical test was performed with 126 Japanese female subjects aged 32-50 years who had crow's feet lines on their faces. Three eligible dermatologists evaluated the study according to authorized grades by the Japanese Cosmetic Science Society and scored the subjects who were much improved or improved as 29.7% and 57.8% of all CLP-treated subjects at 4 and 8 weeks, respectively. In contrast, only 1.5% and 8.1% of subjects improved with the placebo lotion at 4 and 8 weeks, respectively. These results suggest a significant efficacy of CLP to improve wrinkles. In parallel with the dermatologists' assessments, skin surface roughness in the CLP-treated group was significantly reduced after treatment with CLP for 4 and 8 weeks compared to the placebo-treated group. The sum of these data suggests that CLP is a promising and useful ingredient for the improvement of wrinkles through its ability to enhance the elasticity of the SC.}, }
@article {pmid23555215, year = {2013}, author = {Agren, R and Liu, L and Shoaie, S and Vongsangnak, W and Nookaew, I and Nielsen, J}, title = {The RAVEN toolbox and its use for generating a genome-scale metabolic model for Penicillium chrysogenum.}, journal = {PLoS computational biology}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {e1002980}, pmid = {23555215}, issn = {1553-7358}, mesh = {Adenosine Triphosphate/metabolism ; Bioengineering ; Computational Biology/methods ; Databases, Genetic ; Genome, Bacterial ; Metabolic Networks and Pathways ; *Models, Biological ; NADP/metabolism ; Penicillins/metabolism ; Penicillium chrysogenum/*genetics/*metabolism ; Software ; }, abstract = {We present the RAVEN (Reconstruction, Analysis and Visualization of Metabolic Networks) Toolbox: a software suite that allows for semi-automated reconstruction of genome-scale models. It makes use of published models and/or the KEGG database, coupled with extensive gap-filling and quality control features. The software suite also contains methods for visualizing simulation results and omics data, as well as a range of methods for performing simulations and analyzing the results. The software is a useful tool for system-wide data analysis in a metabolic context and for streamlined reconstruction of metabolic networks based on protein homology. The RAVEN Toolbox workflow was applied in order to reconstruct a genome-scale metabolic model for the important microbial cell factory Penicillium chrysogenum Wisconsin54-1255. The model was validated in a bibliomic study of in total 440 references, and it comprises 1471 unique biochemical reactions and 1006 ORFs. It was then used to study the roles of ATP and NADPH in the biosynthesis of penicillin, and to identify potential metabolic engineering targets for maximization of penicillin production.}, }
@article {pmid23551975, year = {2014}, author = {Spironelli, C and Segrè, D and Stegagno, L and Angrilli, A}, title = {Intelligence and psychopathy: a correlational study on insane female offenders.}, journal = {Psychological medicine}, volume = {44}, number = {1}, pages = {111-116}, doi = {10.1017/S0033291713000615}, pmid = {23551975}, issn = {1469-8978}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Antisocial Personality Disorder/*psychology ; Criminals/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Middle Aged ; Violence/*psychology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The occurrence of a significant relationship between psychopathic traits and intelligence is still open to debate. Most of the relevant information has been obtained from crystallized IQ tests or on psychopathic male offenders. In this study we hypothesized a negative correlation between psychopathic traits and fluid intelligence on a sample of criminal female in-patients.<br><br>METHOD: We carried out a correlational study on a selected sample of 56 criminal female offenders. Variables that were measured include the Hare Psychopathy Checklist Revised (PCL-R) total score (and, separately, the scores from its four subscales: Interpersonal, Affective, Lifestyle and Antisocial) and fluid IQ measured by Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM).<br><br>RESULTS: Pearson's correlation between RPM IQ and total PCL-R score was negative (r(54) = -0.55, p < 0.001); women with greater psychopathy traits (total PCL-R score) had lower IQ scores. Negative correlations were also found between IQ and the four PCL-R subscales, Interpersonal, Affective, Lifestyle and Antisocial (r(54) = -0.35, p < 0.01, r(54) = -0.52, p < 0.001, r(54) = -0.53, p < 0.001, and r(54) = -0.49, p < 0.001 respectively).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate a general negative relationship between PCL-R and IQ, equally distributed across the four subcomponents of the psychopathic trait, and support the view that unsuccessful psychopathic women have poor planning and are unable to foresee and represent future consequences of their actions.}, }
@article {pmid23540492, year = {2013}, author = {Wala, J and Craft, D and Paly, J and Zietman, A and Efstathiou, J}, title = {Maximizing dosimetric benefits of IMRT in the treatment of localized prostate cancer through multicriteria optimization planning.}, journal = {Medical dosimetry : official journal of the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists}, volume = {38}, number = {3}, pages = {298-303}, doi = {10.1016/j.meddos.2013.02.012}, pmid = {23540492}, issn = {1873-4022}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Prostatic Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated/*methods ; }, abstract = {We examine the quality of plans created using multicriteria optimization (MCO) treatment planning in intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) in treatment of localized prostate cancer. Nine random cases of patients receiving IMRT to the prostate were selected. Each case was associated with a clinically approved plan created using Corvus. The cases were replanned using MCO-based planning in RayStation. Dose-volume histogram data from both planning systems were presented to 2 radiation oncologists in a blinded evaluation, and were compared at a number of dose-volume points. Both physicians rated all 9 MCO plans as superior to the clinically approved plans (p<10(-5)). Target coverage was equivalent (p = 0.81). Maximum doses to the prostate and bladder and the V50 and V70 to the anterior rectum were reduced in all MCO plans (p<0.05). Treatment planning time with MCO took approximately 60 minutes per case. MCO-based planning for prostate IMRT is efficient and produces high-quality plans with good target homogeneity and sparing of the anterior rectum, bladder, and femoral heads, without sacrificing target coverage.}, }
@article {pmid23537097, year = {2013}, author = {Cai, Q and Qian, X and Lang, Y and Luo, Y and Xu, J and Pan, S and Hui, Y and Gou, C and Cai, Y and Hao, M and Zhao, J and Wang, S and Wang, Z and Zhang, X and He, R and Liu, J and Luo, L and Li, Y and Wang, J}, title = {Genome sequence of ground tit Pseudopodoces humilis and its adaptation to high altitude.}, journal = {Genome biology}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {R29}, pmid = {23537097}, issn = {1474-760X}, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological/*genetics ; *Altitude ; Animals ; Base Sequence ; Evolution, Molecular ; Genome/*genetics ; Molecular Sequence Annotation ; Open Reading Frames/genetics ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Phylogeny ; Selection, Genetic ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Species Specificity ; Synteny/genetics ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The mechanism of high-altitude adaptation has been studied in certain mammals. However, in avian species like the ground tit Pseudopodoces humilis, the adaptation mechanism remains unclear. The phylogeny of the ground tit is also controversial.<br><br>RESULTS: Using next generation sequencing technology, we generated and assembled a draft genome sequence of the ground tit. The assembly contained 1.04 Gb of sequence that covered 95.4% of the whole genome and had higher N50 values, at the level of both scaffolds and contigs, than other sequenced avian genomes. About 1.7 million SNPs were detected, 16,998 protein-coding genes were predicted and 7% of the genome was identified as repeat sequences. Comparisons between the ground tit genome and other avian genomes revealed a conserved genome structure and confirmed the phylogeny of ground tit as not belonging to the Corvidae family. Gene family expansion and positively selected gene analysis revealed genes that were related to cardiac function. Our findings contribute to our understanding of the adaptation of this species to extreme environmental living conditions.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our data and analysis contribute to the study of avian evolutionary history and provide new insights into the adaptation mechanisms to extreme conditions in animals.}, }
@article {pmid23533615, year = {2013}, author = {Stevenson, JL and Gernsbacher, MA}, title = {Abstract spatial reasoning as an autistic strength.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {8}, number = {3}, pages = {e59329}, pmid = {23533615}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Autistic Disorder/*physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Autistic individuals typically excel on spatial tests that measure abstract reasoning, such as the Block Design subtest on intelligence test batteries and the Raven's Progressive Matrices nonverbal test of intelligence. Such well-replicated findings suggest that abstract spatial processing is a relative and perhaps absolute strength of autistic individuals. However, previous studies have not systematically varied reasoning level--concrete vs. abstract--and test domain--spatial vs. numerical vs. verbal, which the current study did. Autistic participants (N = 72) and non-autistic participants (N = 72) completed a battery of 12 tests that varied by reasoning level (concrete vs. abstract) and domain (spatial vs. numerical vs. verbal). Autistic participants outperformed non-autistic participants on abstract spatial tests. Non-autistic participants did not outperform autistic participants on any of the three domains (spatial, numerical, and verbal) or at either of the two reasoning levels (concrete and abstract), suggesting similarity in abilities between autistic and non-autistic individuals, with abstract spatial reasoning as an autistic strength.}, }
@article {pmid23516903, year = {2012}, author = {Tabikhanov, LE and Osipova, LP}, title = {[Analysis of the genetic and demographic structure of populations from Aginskii Buryat district contrasting in habitation conditions].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {48}, number = {12}, pages = {1418-1426}, pmid = {23516903}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological/*genetics ; Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Demography ; Ethnicity/*genetics ; Family Characteristics ; Female ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Male ; Marriage ; Polymorphism, Genetic ; Russia/epidemiology ; Sex Characteristics ; }, abstract = {Genetic and demographic characteristics of populations from two settlements from the Aginskii Buryat district of Trans-Baikal krai (Alkhanai and Orlovskii) were studied. It was demonstrated that the mononational Buryat settlement of Alkhanai, located in the agrarian Dul'durginskii region of the district far from large settlements and transport highways, is characterized by a large prereproductive volume (45%) and by a small share of individuals from the elderly age group (16.4%). A shift in age characteristics in the Buryat group (36.6 and 22.4%, respectively) was detected in the urban settlement of Orlovskii with a population of mixed ethnic composition, located in a densely populated industrialized part of the district. A modified sex ratio was also demonstrated in Alkhanai as opposed to the Buryat part of the Orlovskii population (sex indices were 0.94 and 0.99). Analysis of population mixture was conducted; marriage structure and migrations were described. The endogamy index of the Alkhanai locality was 0.41; in the group of Buryats from Orlovskii, 0.09. A decrease in the amount of pregnancies and births and a larger distribution of family planning practice among Buryats from Orlovskii were detected. The average amount of births of living children per woman in Alkhanai was 5.11; in Buryats from Orlovskii, 3.90. The selection pressure was estimated as low by means of the Crow index (I(tot) 0.28-0.48). In all described groups, a component that characterizes differential fertility (I(f)) exceeds the child mortality component (I(m)).}, }
@article {pmid23516317, year = {2013}, author = {Snitz, BE and Weissfeld, LA and Lopez, OL and Kuller, LH and Saxton, J and Singhabahu, DM and Klunk, WE and Mathis, CA and Price, JC and Ives, DG and Cohen, AD and McDade, E and Dekosky, ST}, title = {Cognitive trajectories associated with β-amyloid deposition in the oldest-old without dementia.}, journal = {Neurology}, volume = {80}, number = {15}, pages = {1378-1384}, pmid = {23516317}, issn = {1526-632X}, support = {R37 AG025516/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; U01 AT000162/AT/NCCIH NIH HHS/United States ; RF1 AG025516/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; P01 AG025204/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; K23 AG038479/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Amyloid beta-Peptides/*metabolism ; Aniline Compounds ; Cognition Disorders/*complications/drug therapy ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Dementia/diagnostic imaging/etiology/*prevention &amp; control ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; *Ginkgo biloba ; Humans ; Linear Models ; Longitudinal Studies ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Phytotherapy/*methods ; Plant Preparations/*therapeutic use ; Positron-Emission Tomography ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Retrospective Studies ; Thiazoles ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine whether a high prevalence (55%) of Aβ deposition in a cohort of individuals remaining dementia-free into their 9th and 10th decades is associated with cognitive decline prior to imaging.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 194 participants (mean age 85.5 years, range 82-95) who completed the Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory Study (GEMS) and remained dementia-free subsequently completed Pittsburgh compound B-PET imaging. We examined cross-sectional associations between A&#x3b2; status and performance on a broad neuropsychological test battery completed at GEMS entry 7-9 years prior to neuroimaging. We also longitudinally examined cognition over annual evaluations using linear mixed models.<br><br>RESULTS: At GEMS screening (2000-2002), participants who were A&#x3b2;-positive in 2009 had lower performance on the Stroop test (p < 0.01) and Raven's Progressive Matrices (p = 0.05), with trend level difference for Block Design (p = 0.07). Longitudinal analyses showed significant slope differences for immediate and delayed recall of the Rey-Osterrieth figure, semantic fluency, and Trail-Making Test parts A and B, indicating greater performance decline prior to neuroimaging for A&#x3b2;-positive relative to A&#x3b2;-negative participants (ps < 0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Highly prevalent A&#x3b2; deposition in oldest-older adults is associated with cognitive decline in visual memory, semantic fluency, and psychomotor speed beginning 7-9 years prior to neuroimaging. Mean differences in nonmemory domains, primarily executive functions, between A&#x3b2;-status groups may be detectable 7-9 years before neuroimaging.}, }
@article {pmid23510821, year = {2013}, author = {Bożek, M and Bielecki, T and Nowak, R and Żelawski, M}, title = {Arthroplasty in patients with congenital hip dysplasia--early evaluation of a treatment method.}, journal = {Ortopedia, traumatologia, rehabilitacja}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {49-59}, doi = {10.5604/15093492.1032794}, pmid = {23510821}, issn = {2084-4336}, mesh = {Adult ; Arthroplasty, Replacement, Hip/*methods ; Bone Lengthening/*methods ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Hip Dislocation, Congenital/*diagnostic imaging/surgery ; *Hip Prosthesis ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Prosthesis Design ; Radiography ; Treatment Outcome ; Walking ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Developmental hip dysplasia (DHD) is the most common cause of secondary hip osteoarthritis (OA). It often leads to OA in young, active and working adults. The aim of our study is to evaluate the results of THA in patients with DHD.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: Total hip arthroplasty was performed in 15 patients with DHD - 13 women (average age - 39) and 2 men (average age - 44) between June 2010 to June 2011. Patient's hips were estimated by Crowe classification to evaluate the severity of degenerative arthritis. Patients we reassessed with Harris Hip Score before and after the surgery.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean preoperative score was 44.6 points, directly after surgery 62.4 pts., 6 months after 78.6 points. After artrhroplasty, improvement was noted in walking stairs without railing, walking without support, sitting on chair for more than 1 hour. Before the surgery average difference in limbs" length was 4 cm After the treatment it was reduced to 0.5 cm. Mean hip flexion was 40 &#xb0; before, 90 &#xb0; after the surgery, mean abduction was respectively 0&#xb0; and 25&#xb0;. Our study proves that total hip arthroplasty in patients with developmental dysplasia of hip helps to improve stability and mobility of joint and to reduce the pain.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: 1. In the type 1 and 2 according to Crow's classification, good clinical results may be achieved using standard prosthesis stem sizes and press-fit acebutalar component with possibly the smallest diameter providing stable placing. 2. In the case of ty pe III good results are observed using acetabular press-fit method for fixing, after reconstruction of bone defects with osteogenous bone graft. 3. The usage of big head dimensions gives beneficial effects on the osseointegration of the acetabular component and reduces the risk of dislocation. 4. A short follow-up period of the group of patients presented requires further prospective study to evaluate the long-term results.}, }
@article {pmid23497398, year = {2013}, author = {Otterbein, LE}, title = {Quoth the Raven: carbon monoxide and nothing more.}, journal = {Medical gas research}, volume = {3}, number = {1}, pages = {7}, pmid = {23497398}, issn = {2045-9912}, abstract = {The articles contained in this review series exemplify the diverse applications and succinct biological relevance of this simple gas. Articles summarizing the important effects of carbon monoxide in preventing the rejection of an organ, in its neuroprotective properties in piglets, regulation of mycobacterial growth, in its anti-inflammatory effects in the gut and in its use in new and innovative modalities and avenues by which to harness adjuvant therapies are eloquently and precisely described and reviewed. Each of these reports offers but a glimpse of continued prudent and sound evidence that this simple diatomic gas offers astonishingly potent and extremely diverse biological and medicinal qualities.}, }
@article {pmid23496635, year = {2013}, author = {Novitski, R and Scheuer, J and Steinberg, BZ}, title = {Unconditionally stable finite-difference time-domain methods for modeling the Sagnac effect.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {87}, number = {2}, pages = {023303}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.87.023303}, pmid = {23496635}, issn = {1550-2376}, mesh = {Computer Simulation ; Computer-Aided Design ; Equipment Failure Analysis ; *Models, Theoretical ; Surface Plasmon Resonance/*instrumentation ; *Transducers ; }, abstract = {We present two unconditionally stable finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) methods for modeling the Sagnac effect in rotating optical microsensors. The methods are based on the implicit Crank-Nicolson scheme, adapted to hold in the rotating system reference frame-the rotating Crank-Nicolson (RCN) methods. The first method (RCN-2) is second order accurate in space whereas the second method (RCN-4) is fourth order accurate. Both methods are second order accurate in time. We show that the RCN-4 scheme is more accurate and has better dispersion isotropy. The numerical results show good correspondence with the expression for the classical Sagnac resonant frequency splitting when using group refractive indices of the resonant modes of a microresonator. Also we show that the numerical results are consistent with the perturbation theory for the rotating degenerate microcavities. We apply our method to simulate the effect of rotation on an entire Coupled Resonator Optical Waveguide (CROW) consisting of a set of coupled microresonators. Preliminary results validate the formation of a rotation-induced gap at the center of a transfer function of a CROW.}, }
@article {pmid22958253, year = {2012}, author = {Ziegler, U and Seidowski, D and Angenvoort, J and Eiden, M and Müller, K and Nowotny, N and Groschup, MH}, title = {Monitoring of West Nile virus infections in Germany.}, journal = {Zoonoses and public health}, volume = {59 Suppl 2}, number = {}, pages = {95-101}, doi = {10.1111/zph.12015}, pmid = {22958253}, issn = {1863-2378}, mesh = {Animal Migration ; Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Bird Diseases/blood/*epidemiology/virology ; Birds ; Germany/epidemiology ; Horse Diseases/blood/*epidemiology/virology ; Horses ; Humans ; Population Surveillance ; West Nile Fever/blood/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/immunology ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) is a flavivirus that is maintained in an enzootic cycle between ornithophilic mosquitoes, mainly of the Culex genus, and certain wild bird species. Other bird species like ravens, jays and raptors are highly susceptible to the infection and may develop deadly encephalitis, while further species of birds are only going through subclinical infection. The objective of this study was to continue in years 2009-2011 the serological and molecular surveillance in wild birds in Germany (see Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis. 10, 639) and to expand these investigations for the first time also to sera from domestic poultry and horses collected between 2005 and 2009. All three cohorts function as indicators for the endemic circulation of WNV. The presence of WNV-specific antibodies was detected in all samples by virus neutralization test (VNT), indirect immunofluorescence test (IFT) and/or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The presence of WNV genomes was monitored in relevant sera using two qRT-PCRs that amplify lineage 1 and 2 strains. A total of 364 migratory and resident wild bird serum samples (with emphasis on Passeriformes and Falconiformes) as well as 1119 serum samples from domestic poultry and 1282 sera from horses were analysed. With the exception of one hooded crow, antibody carriers were exclusively found in migratory birds, but not in resident birds/domestic poultry or in local horses. Crows are facultative, short-distance winter migrants in Germany. WNV-specific nucleic acids could not be demonstrated in any of the samples. According to these data, there is no convincing evidence for indigenous WNV infections in equines and in wild/domestic birds in Germany. However, since a few years, WNV infections are endemic in other European countries such as Austria, Hungary, Greece and Italy, a state-of-the-art surveillance system for the detection of incursions of WNV into Germany deems mandatory.}, }
@article {pmid23485873, year = {2013}, author = {Auersperg, AM and Laumer, IB and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Goffin cockatoos wait for qualitative and quantitative gains but prefer 'better' to 'more'.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {20121092}, pmid = {23485873}, issn = {1744-957X}, support = {J 3404/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cockatoos/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; }, abstract = {Evidence for flexible impulse control over food consumption is rare in non-human animals. So far, only primates and corvids have been shown to be able to fully inhibit the consumption of a desirable food item in anticipation for a gain in quality or quantity longer than a minute. We tested Goffin cockatoos (Cacatua goffini) in an exchange task. Subjects were able to bridge delays of up to 80 s for a preferred food quality and up to 20 s for a higher quantity, providing the first evidence for temporal discounting in birds that do not cache food.}, }
@article {pmid23485821, year = {2013}, author = {Suková, K and Uchytilová, M and Lindová, J}, title = {Abstract concept formation in African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus) on the basis of a low number of cues.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {96}, number = {}, pages = {36-41}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2013.02.008}, pmid = {23485821}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Aptitude/physiology ; Concept Formation/*physiology ; Cues ; Discrimination Learning/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Parrots/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The formation of the concept of sameness is considered as a crucial cognitive ability which allows for other high cognitive functions in some species, e.g. humans. It is often operationalized as transfer of the matching rule to new stimuli in a matching-to-sample task. Animal species show great differences regarding the number of stimuli needed in training to be able to perform a full transfer to new stimuli. Not only apes appear to master this task, but also corvids among the birds were shown to reach a full transfer using only few stimuli. Using colour, shape and number stimuli in a matching-to-sample design, we tested four grey parrots for their ability to judge identity. Only a limited set of 8 stimulus cards were used in training. Pairs of "same" number stimuli were visually different thus allowing to be matched according to number of elements only. All four parrots successfully transferred to testing phases including testing with completely new stimuli and their performance did not drop with new stimuli. Including number stimuli invalidated some interpretations based on visual non-abstract processes and give evidence for formation of the concept of sameness.}, }
@article {pmid23472755, year = {2013}, author = {Eichler, EE}, title = {2012 introduction to the Curt Stern Award: Jay Shendure.}, journal = {American journal of human genetics}, volume = {92}, number = {3}, pages = {338-339}, pmid = {23472755}, issn = {1537-6605}, mesh = {*Awards and Prizes ; Genetics, Medical/*history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; }, }
@article {pmid23457101, year = {2013}, author = {Michels, R}, title = {Roy Schafer: a narrative.}, journal = {The Psychoanalytic quarterly}, volume = {82}, number = {1}, pages = {77-82}, doi = {10.1002/j.2167-4086.2013.00007.x}, pmid = {23457101}, issn = {0033-2828}, mesh = {Female ; Feminism/history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Disorders/*diagnosis/history ; Mentors/history ; Professional Role/history ; Psychoanalysis/*history/methods ; *Psychoanalytic Theory ; Psychological Tests/*history ; Rorschach Test/history ; Uncertainty ; United States ; }, abstract = {The author provides a brief overview of the papers given at the Schafer Symposium in October 2012 by the following six presenters: Henry Schwartz, Richard Fritsch, Rosemary Balsam, Lucy LaFarge, Michael Feldman, and Jay Greenberg. He also highlights some important ongoing themes in Schafer's writing, including theory-about which Schafer takes a unique position-history, and ideas from other disciplines. Schafer prefers continuing explorations over arriving at conclusions, the author notes, and believes that students should remain faithful to their mentors' thinking-until it is time for them to move beyond it.}, }
@article {pmid23454967, year = {2013}, author = {Mancinelli, M and Bettotti, P and Fedeli, JM and Pavesi, L}, title = {Interferometric switching in coupled resonator optical waveguides-based reconfigurable optical device.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {38}, number = {2}, pages = {217-219}, doi = {10.1364/OL.38.000217}, pmid = {23454967}, issn = {1539-4794}, abstract = {Integrated optical devices based on coupled resonator optical waveguides (CROW) for reconfigurable band routing are explored. A reconfiguration principle based on two bus interferometric CROW resonant structures is proposed. This device extends the functionalities of simple add-drop filters, adding more switching features. These new functionalities yield three functional states that comprehend a complete reconfigurability and a 50% splitter mode.}, }
@article {pmid23437262, year = {2013}, author = {Wascher, CA and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Behavioral responses to inequity in reward distribution and working effort in crows and ravens.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {8}, number = {2}, pages = {e56885}, pmid = {23437262}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Cooperative Behavior ; *Crows ; Female ; Male ; *Reward ; }, abstract = {Sensitivity to inequity is considered to be a crucial cognitive tool in the evolution of human cooperation. The ability has recently been shown also in primates and dogs, raising the question of an evolutionary basis of inequity aversion. We present first evidence that two bird species are sensitive to other individuals' efforts and payoffs. In a token exchange task we tested both behavioral responses to inequity in the quality of reward (preferred versus non-preferred food) and to the absence of reward in the presence of a rewarded partner, in 5 pairs of corvids (6 crows, 4 ravens). Birds decreased their exchange performance when the experimental partner received the reward as a gift, which indicates that they are sensitive to other individuals' working effort. They also decreased their exchange performance in the inequity compared with the equity condition. Notably, corvids refused to take the reward after a successful exchange more often in the inequity compared with the other conditions. Our findings indicate that awareness to other individuals' efforts and payoffs may evolve independently of phylogeny in systems with a given degree of social complexity.}, }
@article {pmid23436138, year = {2014}, author = {Halonen, JI and Kivimäki, M and Kouvonen, A and Pentti, J and Kawachi, I and Subramanian, SV and Vahtera, J}, title = {Proximity to a tobacco store and smoking cessation: a cohort study.}, journal = {Tobacco control}, volume = {23}, number = {2}, pages = {146-151}, doi = {10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2012-050726}, pmid = {23436138}, issn = {1468-3318}, support = {MR/K013351/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Cohort Studies ; *Commerce ; Data Collection ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Sex Factors ; *Smoking ; *Smoking Cessation ; Tobacco Industry ; *Tobacco Products ; *Tobacco Use Disorder ; Walking ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: It is not clear whether the availability of tobacco affects the likelihood of smoking cessation. We examined whether the proximity to a tobacco store and the number of stores were associated with smoking cessation, and compared results for proximity variables based on walking and straight-line (as the crow flies) distance.<br><br>METHODS: The study population consisted of 8751 baseline smokers from the Finnish Public Sector study in 1997-2005. Smoking intensity (cigarettes/day) was determined at baseline and smoking cessation was determined from a follow-up survey in 2008-2009. Proximity was measured using straight-line and walking distance from home to the nearest tobacco store, and another exposure variable was the number of stores within 0.50 km from home. We calculated associations with log-binomial regression models, adjusting for individual-level and area-level confounders.<br><br>RESULTS: Of the participants, 3482 (39.8%) quit smoking during the follow-up (mean follow-up 5.5 years, SD 2.3 years). Among men who were moderate/heavy smokers at baseline and lived <0.50 km walking distance from the nearest tobacco store, the likelihood of smoking cessation was 27% (95% CI 12% to 40%) lower compared with those living &#x2265;0.50 km from a store. Having even one store within 0.50 km walking distance from home decreased cessation in men who were moderate/heavy smokers by 37% (95% CI 19% to 51%). No decrease was found for men who were light smokers at baseline or for women.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Living within walking distance of a tobacco store reduced the likelihood of smoking cessation among men who were moderate/heavy smokers.}, }
@article {pmid23434187, year = {2013}, author = {Dridi, M and Vangeluwe, D and Lecollinet, S and van den Berg, T and Lambrecht, B}, title = {Experimental infection of Carrion crows (Corvus corone) with two European West Nile virus (WNV) strains.}, journal = {Veterinary microbiology}, volume = {165}, number = {1-2}, pages = {160-166}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2012.12.043}, pmid = {23434187}, issn = {1873-2542}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/virology ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Crows/*virology ; West Nile Fever/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/*physiology ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) has become a wide-spread arbovirus in Europe and the Mediterranean Basin countries. This emerging zoonotic disease disseminated 13 years ago in North America where its impact on animal and public health has been considerable. Although American corvids have been the most reliable avian sentinels for WN surveillance in the United States, there is so far no data available about the susceptibility of their Western European counterparts to WNV. Clinical follow-up and serum, oral swabs and feathers viral RNA load monitoring was herein performed on wild-caught Carrion crows (Corvus corone) experimentally inoculated with two WNV strains, Is98 that was isolated from a stork in Israel where it elicited high rates of avian deaths in 1998, and Fr2000 which was only associated to sporadic equine cases in Camargue, France in 2000. Inoculated crows were sensitive to both WNV infections and, as expected from the available epidemiological data, Is98 induced a higher mortality rate (100% vs. 33%) and a quicker fatal outcome, with higher viral RNA loads detected in the serum, oral swabs and feathers than in the Fr2000 group. Therefore, Carrion crows should also be a target species for WNV surveillance in Western Europe, where reporting for abnormal mortalities could be completed by viral detection in the herein described avian matrices. These experimental findings also emphasize the peculiarity of the European situation where a large spectrum of WNV genetic and pathotypic variants have been so far isolated despite limited WN disease reports in wild birds.}, }
@article {pmid23433986, year = {2013}, author = {Marucci, G and Interisano, M and La Rosa, G and Pozio, E}, title = {Molecular identification of nematode larvae different from those of the Trichinella genus detected by muscle digestion.}, journal = {Veterinary parasitology}, volume = {194}, number = {2-4}, pages = {117-120}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetpar.2013.01.034}, pmid = {23433986}, issn = {1873-2550}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/diagnosis/*parasitology ; Birds ; DNA, Helminth/chemistry/genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/chemistry/genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal/chemistry/genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal Spacer/chemistry/genetics ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Electron Transport Complex IV/genetics ; False Positive Reactions ; Larva ; Muscles/*parasitology ; Mustelidae/*parasitology ; Nematoda/classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; RNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA/veterinary ; Sus scrofa ; Swine ; Swine Diseases/diagnosis/*parasitology ; Trichinella/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Trichinellosis/diagnosis/parasitology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {Although larvae of the genus Trichinella are the most common parasite species detected in vertebrate muscles using artificial digestion, nematode larvae belonging to other genera are sometimes detected and incorrectly identified as Trichinella. However, it is often very difficult to identify these larvae at the species, genus or family level using microscopy because of the absence of specific morphological characters or cuticle damage, and the only means of identification is PCR and sequencing of specific molecular markers (12S mtDNA; COI; 18S rDNA; and ITS1). From 2008 to 2011, 18 nematode isolates not belonging to the genus Trichinella were collected from different host species. Eleven of these isolates were successfully identified at the species, genus or superfamily level: larvae from two common kestrels, three hooded crows, a hen harrier and a domestic pig were identified as Toxocara cati; larvae from a badger were identified as Toxocara canis; larvae from a domestic pig were identified as a free-living nematode of the genus Panagrolaimus; larvae from a wild boar were identified as belonging to the Metastrongylus genus; and larvae from a rough-legged buzzard were identified as belonging to the superfamily Filarioidea. The recovery of nematodes belonging to genera other than Trichinella during routine meat inspection suggests that the persons performing the analyses need to be informed of the possibility of false positives and that a molecular-based identification system that allows for a rapid and reliable response must be adopted (i.e., a DNA barcoding-like system).}, }
@article {pmid23432835, year = {2013}, author = {Chow, BW and Ho, CS and Wong, SW and Waye, MMY and Bishop, DVM}, title = {Generalist genes and cognitive abilities in Chinese twins.}, journal = {Developmental science}, volume = {16}, number = {2}, pages = {260-268}, pmid = {23432835}, issn = {1467-7687}, support = {082498/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; 082498/z/07/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Age Factors ; Asian People/*psychology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; China ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Language ; *Language Development ; Male ; Models, Genetic ; Multivariate Analysis ; *Reading ; Twins, Dizygotic ; Twins, Monozygotic ; Vocabulary ; }, abstract = {This study considered how far nonverbal cognitive, language and reading abilities are affected by common genetic influences in a sample of 312 typically developing Chinese twin pairs aged from 3 to 11 years. Children were individually given tasks of Chinese word reading, receptive vocabulary, phonological memory, tone awareness, syllable and rhyme awareness, rapid automatized naming, morphological awareness and orthographic skills, and Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices. Factor analyses on the verbal tasks adjusted for age indicated two factors: Language as the first factor and Reading as the second factor. Univariate genetic analyses indicated that genetic influences were substantial for nonverbal cognitive ability and moderate for language and reading. Multivariate genetic analyses showed that nonverbal cognitive ability, language and reading were influenced by shared genetic origins, although there were specific genetic influences on verbal skills that were distinct from those on nonverbal cognitive ability. This study extends the Generalist Genes Hypothesis to Chinese language and reading skills, suggesting that the general effects of genes could be universal across languages.}, }
@article {pmid23426632, year = {2013}, author = {Kamil, AC}, title = {Eurasian jays predict the food preferences of their mates.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {110}, number = {10}, pages = {3719-3720}, pmid = {23426632}, issn = {1091-6490}, support = {R01 MH069893/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01-MH069893/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Male ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; }, }
@article {pmid23401972, year = {2012}, author = {Pleskacheva, MG and Zorina, ZA}, title = {[Solving of Revesh-Krushinsky test by animals of different taxonomic groups].}, journal = {Zhurnal evoliutsionnoi biokhimii i fiziologii}, volume = {48}, number = {6}, pages = {597-612}, pmid = {23401972}, issn = {0044-4529}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Birds/*physiology ; Cognition/physiology ; Humans ; Memory/*physiology ; Movement/physiology ; Primates/*physiology ; Rats ; }, abstract = {There has been compared behavior of rats, corvid birds, and primates of different species at their performance of the Revesh-Krushinsky test (RKT) developed by L. V. Krushinsky to extimate the human capability for revealing rule of discrete translocation of hidden target object. RKT was introduced as an addition to the test for extrapolation of the movement direction of the bait seen only at the initial pathway fragment; this test is close to Piaget's tests (stage 6) evaluating the capability for mental representation and determination of location of the moving hidden object. During RKT, the bait, hidden from the animals, was placed, near where it was previous time: at the first test presentation--under the 1st cylinder, at the 2nd one--under the 2nd cylinder, etc. The animals were tested once. It was shown that they did not catch the necessary for successful solution rule of the bait translocation, direction and step of its translocation in each presentation. Only some of the animals solved RKT, found the bait 3 and more times in succession with no errors or with one error. Nevertheless, in all groups the number of errors was lower than that in the model situation of random search. Such optimization was a consequence of universal for all groups strategy of search in the places where the bait was found recently. With the similar number of errors, rats, birds, and monkeys performed the search differently. Rats were looking for bait mainly among the cylinders where they had found it previously, whereas monkeys and birds chosen the first the new cylinders located near the target one, which implies the existence, to the weak extent, of elements of prognosis. For all groups of animals, RKT turned out to be more difficult both of the test for extrapolation and the Piaget's test.}, }
@article {pmid23401948, year = {2012}, author = {Savage, HM and Kothera, L}, title = {The Culex pipiens complex in the Mississippi River basin: identification, distribution, and bloodmeal hosts.}, journal = {Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association}, volume = {28}, number = {4 Suppl}, pages = {93-99}, doi = {10.2987/8756-971X-28.4.93}, pmid = {23401948}, issn = {8756-971X}, mesh = {Animal Distribution ; Animals ; Birds/*parasitology ; Culex/*classification/genetics/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; *Host-Parasite Interactions ; Humans ; Hybridization, Genetic ; Mammals/*parasitology ; United States ; }, abstract = {Members of the Culex pipiens complex are the primary vectors of St. Louis encephalitis virus and West Nile virus in the Mississippi River basin (MRB). The Cx. pipiens complex in the MRB is composed of 4 taxa: Cx. p. pipiens form pipiens, Cx. p. quinquefasciatus, hybrids between Cx. p. pipiens f. pipiens and Cx. p. quinquefasciatus, and Cx. p. pipiens form molestus. Three studies on bloodmeal hosts with large sample sizes have been conducted on members of the Cx. pipiens complex in the MRB including 1 each on Cx. p. quinquefasciatus from Louisiana, Cx. p. pipiens-quinquefasciatus hybrids from Tennessee, and Cx. p. pipiens from Illinois. The top 8 bloodmeal hosts from each of the 3 sites accounted for 68-92% of bloodmeals. Only 14 species accounted for the top 8 bloodmeal hosts at each of the 3 sites. The most often utilized bloodmeal hosts for members of the Culex pipiens complex within the MRB are the American robin, Northern cardinal, human, raccoon, common grackle, house sparrow, mourning dove, dog, Northern mockingbird, blue jay, opossum, domestic horse, house finch and European starling. Human feeding varied widely among sites from 1% to 15.7% of bloodmeals. The proportion of bloodmeals taken on humans is an important epidemiological variable and future studies are needed to define the primary genetic and environmental factors that influence host utilization by members of the Cx. pipiens complex.}, }
@article {pmid23398325, year = {2013}, author = {Cahill, M and O'Donnell, M and Warren, A and Taylor, A and Gowan, O}, title = {Enhancing interprofessional student practice through a case-based model.}, journal = {Journal of interprofessional care}, volume = {27}, number = {4}, pages = {333-335}, doi = {10.3109/13561820.2013.764514}, pmid = {23398325}, issn = {1469-9567}, mesh = {*Cooperative Behavior ; Focus Groups ; Humans ; *Interprofessional Relations ; *Models, Educational ; *Preceptorship ; Qualitative Research ; Queensland ; *Students, Health Occupations ; }, abstract = {Healthcare workers are increasingly being called upon to work collaboratively in practice to improve patient care and it seems imperative that interprofessional working should be mirrored in student education, especially during placements. This short report describes a qualitative evaluation of a client-centered, case-based model of interprofessional education (IPE) which aimed to improve interprofessional communication and team working skills for the students and therapists involved in practice placements. The IPE project implemented the meet, assess, goal set, plan, implement, evaluate (MAGPIE) framework for interprofessional case-based teaching (Queensland-Health (2008)) alongside the International Classification of Function, Disability and Health (ICF) (WHO, 2001). Three separate focus groups explored the experiences of the students, therapists and placement facilitators from the disciplines of occupational therapy, physiotherapy and speech and language therapy. Three themes emerged: IPE as a motivating experience, IPE enhancing the depth of learning and clarity of expectations. This report concluded that IPE in the clinical setting, using the client-centered MAGPIE model, provided a strong foundation for enhanced learning in practice education contexts.}, }
@article {pmid23391801, year = {2012}, author = {Chatterjee, A and Ray, K and Panjwani, U and Thakur, L and Anand, JP}, title = {Meditation as an intervention for cognitive disturbances following total sleep deprivation.}, journal = {The Indian journal of medical research}, volume = {136}, number = {6}, pages = {1031-1038}, pmid = {23391801}, issn = {0975-9174}, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology/*therapy ; Contingent Negative Variation/physiology ; Event-Related Potentials, P300/physiology ; Humans ; India ; Male ; Meditation/*methods/psychology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Reaction Time/physiology ; Sleep Deprivation/*complications ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND &amp; OBJECTIVES: Decline in cognitive functions is a major challenge for professionals during sustained wakefulness. We used middle latency response (MLR), event related potentials P300-ERP and contingent negative variation (CNV) and Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM) - a standard neuropsychological test were used to evaluate cognitive impairment after total sleep deprivation (SD); and to study the impact of meditation as an intervention for this impairment.<br><br>METHODS: Healthy male volunteers (n=10) drawn randomly from the Indian Army participated in a 6-night study design executed before and after two months of meditation practice: night 1-adaptation, night 2-baseline, night 3-24 h SD, night 4-recovery sleep, night 5-24 h SD after 60 days meditation, night 6-recovery sleep after SD. A 36 h SD was obtained by keeping the subject awake for 12 h after 24 h SD.<br><br>RESULTS: The latency and amplitude of P300 increased after 36 h SD. Amplitudes and latencies of both early and late CNV increased after 24 and 36 h SD, indicating deficient orientation and impairment of attention and perception. Prolonged CNV reaction time after 36 h SD manifested deficient motor response following second (imperative) stimulus. Latency of MLR Na registered significant change following 36 h SD compared to baseline (P<0.01) and recovery (P<0.05). RAPM score showed significant decrease after 36 h of wakefulness indicating impaired analytical ability and difficulty in problem solving. None of these parameters showed any significant alteration after SD, following meditation practice.<br><br>The present results showed that SD impaired cognitive performance to graded extents significantly, but this deterioration could be improved to a significant extent using meditation.}, }
@article {pmid23389227, year = {2013}, author = {Ma, J and Martínez, LJ and Fan, S and Povinelli, ML}, title = {Tight-binding calculation of radiation loss in photonic crystal CROW.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {21}, number = {2}, pages = {2463-2473}, doi = {10.1364/OE.21.002463}, pmid = {23389227}, issn = {1094-4087}, mesh = {Computer Simulation ; Energy Transfer ; *Light ; *Models, Theoretical ; Photons ; *Scattering, Radiation ; Surface Plasmon Resonance/*methods ; }, abstract = {The tight binding approximation (TBA) is used to relate the intrinsic, radiation loss of a coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW) to that of a single constituent resonator within a light cone picture. We verify the validity of the TBA via direct, full-field simulation of CROWs based on the L2 photonic crystal cavity. The TBA predicts that the quality factor of the CROW increases with that of the isolated cavity. Moreover, our results provide a method to design CROWs with low intrinsic loss across the entire waveguide band.}, }
@article {pmid23382187, year = {2013}, author = {Ostojić, L and Shaw, RC and Cheke, LG and Clayton, NS}, title = {Evidence suggesting that desire-state attribution may govern food sharing in Eurasian jays.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {110}, number = {10}, pages = {4123-4128}, pmid = {23382187}, issn = {1091-6490}, support = {//Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Female ; Food ; Male ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {State-attribution is the ability to ascribe to others an internal life like one's own and to understand that internal, psychological states such as desire, hope, belief, and knowledge underlie others' actions. Despite extensive research, comparative studies struggle to adequately integrate key factors of state-attribution that have been identified by evolutionary and developmental psychology as well as research on empathy. Here, we develop a behavioral paradigm to address these issues and investigate whether male Eurasian jays respond to the changing desire-state of their female partners when sharing food. We demonstrate that males feed their mates flexibly according to the female's current food preference. Critically, we show that the males need to see what the female has previously eaten to know what food she will currently want. Consequently, the males' sharing pattern was not simply a response to their mate's behavior indicating her preference as to what he should share, nor was it a response to the males' own desire-state. Our results raise the possibility that these birds may be capable of ascribing desire to their mates.}, }
@article {pmid23377331, year = {2013}, author = {Jandhyala, R}, title = {Improving consent procedures and evaluation of treatment success in cosmetic use of incobotulinumtoxinA: an assessment of the treat-to-goal approach.}, journal = {Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {72-78}, pmid = {23377331}, issn = {1545-9616}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Data Interpretation, Statistical ; Esthetics ; Face ; Female ; Goals ; Humans ; Informed Consent/*standards ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*therapeutic use ; Patient Satisfaction ; Quality Improvement ; Reproducibility of Results ; Risk ; Skin/pathology ; Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Despite the escalating number of patients undergoing aesthetic BoNT-A procedures, a standardized, objective means of setting treatment goals and measuring the success of treatment is lacking. Treat-To-Goal (TTG) is a new approach to consent that utilizes the Merz Aesthetics Scale to set objectively defined start points and treatment goals to better inform the consent process and provide a means of measuring the success of treatment.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the TTG approach vs standard consent procedures in terms of patient understanding of the risks and benefits of treatment.<br><br>METHODS: This study was undertaken in 2 phases among consecutive patients presenting for BoNT-A treatment. Phase 1 consisted of a crossover comparison of patient satisfaction with standard consent vs the TTG approach (n=20). Patient understanding of the likely outcomes and risks associated with treatment following consent and their overall preference were assessed using 10-point visual analog scales (VAS). Phase 2 assigned patients to receive no treatment (n=10) or treatment with BoNT-A (n=54) following consent with the TTG approach. Patients were followed up with 28 days later to assess whether the goals defined during consent had been met.<br><br>RESULTS: The TTG approach significantly improved patient understanding of likely outcomes of BoNT-A treatment compared with standard consent (P=.004 when standard consent assessed first, and P=.002 when TTG assessed first). All patients assessed preferred the TTG approach (median VAS score in favor of TTG: 7.0, P<.0001). Target improvements were successfully met or exceeded in at least one treatment area (forehead, glabellar lines, crow's feet) in all patients treated with BoNT-A. In contrast, none of the untreated patients met their target improvements unless the target was defined as no change.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The TTG approach represents a significant improvement over standard consent in terms of the information it provides to patients. Further investigation of this concept is warranted.}, }
@article {pmid23373679, year = {2013}, author = {van den Berg, E and Nys, GM and Brands, AM and Ruis, C and van Zandvoort, MJ and Kessels, RP}, title = {Exploration of the Raven APM-National Adult Reading Test discrepancy as a measure of intellectual decline in older persons.}, journal = {Applied neuropsychology. Adult}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {7-14}, doi = {10.1080/09084282.2012.670148}, pmid = {23373679}, issn = {2327-9109}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Aging ; Analysis of Variance ; Diabetes Complications/physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*diagnosis/etiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Psychometrics ; *Reading ; Sex Factors ; Stroke/complications ; }, abstract = {Previous studies have shown that the discrepancy between performance on "fluid" and "crystallized" intelligence measures may serve as an indicator for intellectual decline. The validity of this procedure in older persons is unknown. The present study developed a multiple regression equation, to predict the Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM) score from the National Adult Reading Test (NART) score and demographic variables in a large sample of healthy older persons (n = 270). The discrepancy between the predicted and observed Raven APM scores was transformed into a percentile distribution as an indicator of intellectual decline, which can be used in clinical practice. The validity of the procedure was further examined by comparing the proportion of persons with a significant decline (at the -1 and -1.65 SD level) between two older patient samples (87 patients with cerebral stroke and 387 patients with diabetes mellitus) by means of χ(2) tests. There was a significantly higher rate of intellectual decline at the -1 SD ("below average") and -1.65 SD ("impaired") cutoff levels for patients with stroke compared with patients with diabetes (stroke, 34% and 14%; diabetes, 16% and 5%, p < .05). These findings suggest that the Raven APM-NART discrepancy may be a useful measure of intellectual decline in older persons.}, }
@article {pmid23370226, year = {2013}, author = {Paap, KR and Greenberg, ZI}, title = {There is no coherent evidence for a bilingual advantage in executive processing.}, journal = {Cognitive psychology}, volume = {66}, number = {2}, pages = {232-258}, doi = {10.1016/j.cogpsych.2012.12.002}, pmid = {23370226}, issn = {1095-5623}, mesh = {Cognition/*physiology ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Multilingualism ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Reaction Time/physiology ; }, abstract = {Three studies compared bilinguals to monolinguals on 15 indicators of executive processing (EP). Most of the indicators compare a neutral or congruent baseline to a condition that should require EP. For each of the measures there was no main effect of group and a highly significant main effect of condition. The critical marker for a bilingual advantage, the Group×Condition interaction, was significant for only one indicator, but in a pattern indicative of a bilingual disadvantage. Tasks include antisaccade (Study 1), Simon (Studies 1-3), flanker (Study 3), and color-shape switching (Studies 1-3). The two groups performed identically on the Raven's Advanced Matrices test (Study 3). Analyses on the combined data selecting subsets that are precisely matched on parent's educational level or that include only highly fluent bilinguals reveal exactly the same pattern of results. A problem reconfirmed by the present study is that effects assumed to be indicators of a specific executive process in one task (e.g., inhibitory control in the flanker task) frequently do not predict individual differences in that same indicator on a related task (e.g., inhibitory control in the Simon task). The absence of consistent cross-task correlations undermines the interpretation that these are valid indicators of domain-general abilities. In a final discussion the underlying rationale for hypothesizing bilingual advantages in executive processing based on the special linguistic demands placed on bilinguals is interrogated.}, }
@article {pmid23364270, year = {2013}, author = {Gould, KL and Gilbertson, KE and Hrvol, AJ and Nelson, JC and Seyfer, AL and Brantner, RM and Kamil, AC}, title = {Differences in relative hippocampus volume and number of hippocampus neurons among five corvid species.}, journal = {Brain, behavior and evolution}, volume = {81}, number = {1}, pages = {56-70}, pmid = {23364270}, issn = {1421-9743}, support = {R01 MH069893/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01-MH069893/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cell Count ; Hippocampus/*anatomy &amp; histology/*cytology ; Neurons/*cytology ; Passeriformes/*anatomy &amp; histology/classification ; Septum of Brain/anatomy &amp; histology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The relative size of the avian hippocampus (Hp) has been shown to be related to spatial memory and food storing in two avian families, the parids and corvids. Basil et al. [Brain Behav Evol 1996;47:156-164] examined North American food-storing birds in the corvid family and found that Clark's nutcrackers had a larger relative Hp than pinyon jays and Western scrub jays. These results correlated with the nutcracker's better performance on most spatial memory tasks and their strong reliance on stored food in the wild. However, Pravosudov and de Kort [Brain Behav Evol 2006;67:1-9] raised questions about the methodology used in the 1996 study, specifically the use of paraffin as an embedding material and recalculation for shrinkage. Therefore, we measured relative Hp volume using gelatin as the embedding material in four North American species of food-storing corvids (Clark's nutcrackers, pinyon jays, Western scrub jays and blue jays) and one Eurasian corvid that stores little to no food (azure-winged magpies). Although there was a significant overall effect of species on relative Hp volume among the five species, subsequent tests found only one pairwise difference, blue jays having a larger Hp than the azure-winged magpies. We also examined the relative size of the septum in the five species. Although Shiflett et al. [J Neurobiol 2002;51:215-222] found a difference in relative septum volume amongst three species of parids that correlated with storing food, we did not find significant differences amongst the five species in relative septum. Finally, we calculated the number of neurons in the Hp relative to body mass in the five species and found statistically significant differences, some of which are in accord with the adaptive specialization hypothesis and some are not.}, }
@article {pmid23345454, year = {2013}, author = {Dymond, S and Haselgrove, M and McGregor, A}, title = {Clever crows or unbalanced birds?.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {110}, number = {5}, pages = {E336}, pmid = {23345454}, issn = {1091-6490}, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; }, }
@article {pmid23343580, year = {2013}, author = {Savini, G and Puggioni, G and DI Gennaro, A and DI Francesco, G and Rocchigiani, AM and Polci, A and Marini, V and Pinoni, C and Rolesu, S and Marruchella, G and Lorusso, A and Monaco, F}, title = {West Nile virus lineage 2 in Sardinian wild birds in 2012: a further threat to public health.}, journal = {Epidemiology and infection}, volume = {141}, number = {11}, pages = {2313-2316}, pmid = {23343580}, issn = {1469-4409}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*virology ; *Crows ; *Hawks ; Humans ; Italy/epidemiology ; Public Health ; West Nile virus/*genetics ; Zoonoses ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) strains belonging to lineage 2 were detected and isolated from the tissues of a goshawk and two carrion crows in Sardinia in August 2012. According to NS3 sequence analysis, the Sardinian isolates shared a high level of similarity with those of Italian lineage 2 strains which circulated in 2011 and with the homologous sequence of the 2004 Hungarian isolate. Following the human fatality reported in 2011 in Olbia, this study is the first to report the spread and enzootic circulation of WNV lineage 2 in Sardinia.}, }
@article {pmid23343453, year = {2013}, author = {Bourque, J and Lakis, N and Champagne, J and Stip, E and Lalonde, P and Lipp, O and Mendrek, A}, title = {Clozapine and visuospatial processing in treatment-resistant schizophrenia.}, journal = {Cognitive neuropsychiatry}, volume = {18}, number = {6}, pages = {615-630}, doi = {10.1080/13546805.2012.760917}, pmid = {23343453}, issn = {1464-0619}, support = {//Canadian Institutes of Health Research/Canada ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Antipsychotic Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Benzodiazepines/administration &amp; dosage ; Clozapine/*administration &amp; dosage ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Cognition Disorders/*drug therapy ; Dibenzothiazepines/administration &amp; dosage ; Drug Resistance ; Female ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Olanzapine ; Quetiapine Fumarate ; Risperidone/administration &amp; dosage ; Schizophrenia/*drug therapy/physiopathology ; Space Perception/*drug effects ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Clozapine, the most widely used option in treatment-resistant schizophrenia, has been shown to be superior to other antipsychotic medications in improving cognitive function in patients. However, the results have not been consistent and the mechanisms underlying this effect have not been elucidated. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to evaluate verbal and nonverbal cognition (using visuospatial processing tests) in patients treated with clozapine (initially treatment resistant) and those treated with other second-generation antipsychotics, relative healthy control subjects. Furthermore, we examined neural correlates of visuospatial processing in the three groups.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty schizophrenia patients treated with clozapine (TR-C group), 23 patients stabilised with atypical antipsychotics other than clozapine (NTR group), and 21 healthy control participants completed a battery of verbal and visuospatial cognitive tests. In addition, participants underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) while performing one of the visuospatial tests (the mental rotation task). The fMRI data were analysed separately in each group using Statistical Parametric Mapping software (SPM5).<br><br>RESULTS: Overall, schizophrenia patients exhibited deficit on verbal and nonverbal processing relative to the healthy controls, but we observed some interesting differences between the two groups of patients. Specifically, the NTR group performed better than the TR-C group on the Block Design and the Raven's Progressive Matrices. With respect to brain function during mental rotation, the NTR group showed significant activations in regions of the temporal and occipital cortex, whereas the TR-C patients did not. The relative deactivations associated with the task were also more robust in NTR compared to the other group of patients, despite a similar performance.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Present results suggest better visuospatial processing in the NTR relative to the TR-C group. This difference could be attributed to the treatment resistance itself or a lack of beneficial effect of clozapine relative to other atypical antipsychotics in ameliorating nonverbal abilities. Future studies of the relationship between clozapine and cognition, as well as between treatment resistance and cognition, are warranted.}, }
@article {pmid23338970, year = {2013}, author = {Tornick, JK and Gibson, BM}, title = {Tests of inferential reasoning by exclusion in Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {583-597}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-013-0595-1}, pmid = {23338970}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Choice Behavior ; Cues ; *Passeriformes ; *Problem Solving ; Reinforcement, Psychology ; }, abstract = {We examined inferential reasoning by exclusion in the Clark's nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) using two-way object-choice procedures. While other social scatter-hoarding corvids appear capable of engaging in inferential reasoning, it remains unclear if the relatively less social nutcracker is able to do so. In an initial experiment, food was hidden in one of two opaque containers. All of the birds immediately selected the baited container when shown only the empty container during testing. We subsequently examined the nutcrackers in two follow-up experiments using a task that may have been less likely to be solved by associative processes. The birds were trained that two distinctive objects were always found hidden in opaque containers that were always positioned at the same two locations. During testing, one of the two objects was found in a transparent "trash bin" and was unavailable. The birds were required to infer that if one of the objects was in the "trash," then the other object should still be available in its hidden location. Five out of six birds were unable to make this inference, suggesting that associative mechanisms likely accounted for our earlier results. However, one bird consistently chose the object that was not seen in the "trash," demonstrating that nutcrackers may have the ability to use inferential reasoning by exclusion to solve inference tasks. The role of scatter hoarding and social organization is discussed as factors in the ability of corvid birds to reason.}, }
@article {pmid23336028, year = {2012}, author = {Pika, S}, title = {The case of referential gestural signaling: Where next?.}, journal = {Communicative &amp; integrative biology}, volume = {5}, number = {6}, pages = {578-582}, pmid = {23336028}, issn = {1942-0889}, abstract = {Referential acts play a crucial part in our every day communication since human language is, in its essence, a referential system. Reference can be made via icons, indices and signs but also via ostensive/inferential gestural communication, in which the behavior of the actor directs the attention of the recipient to particular aspects of the environment. The earliest uses of ostensive/inferential communication can be observed in human children around the age of nine to 12 mo. However, what about comparable gestures in our closest living relatives, the nonhuman primates or other animal taxa? The present paper aims to provide a brief overview of the state of the art to encourage future research into the evolutionary origins and uses of referential gestural signaling.}, }
@article {pmid23326813, year = {2012}, author = {Nahid, R and Leila, K}, title = {Comparison of intelligence quotient in children surviving leukemia who received different prophylactic central nervous system treatments.}, journal = {Advanced biomedical research}, volume = {1}, number = {}, pages = {83}, pmid = {23326813}, issn = {2277-9175}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Neurocognitive deficits and decrease in intelligence quotient (IQ) is one of the complication of prophylactic central nervous system (CNS) treatment in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients. In this study, we compare the IQ in survivors of ALL that were treated with different prophylactic CNS treatments.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: We compared 43 long-term survivors of ALL: 21 survivors with intrathecal methotrexate (IT MTX) as CNS prophylaxis, 22 with IT MTX+1800-2400 rads cranial irradiation and 20 healthy controls. The IQ was measured using the Raven's test in these patients.<br><br>RESULTS: Raven's test revealed significant differences in IQ between the survivors of ALL that were treated with IT MTX, IT MTX plus cranial irradiation and control group. There was no significant difference in the IQ with respect to sex, age and irradiation dose.<br><br>CONCLUSION: We can that reveal that CNS prophylaxis treatment, especially the combined treatment, is associated with IQ score decline in ALL survivors. Therefore,a baseline and an annual assessment of their educational progress are suggested.}, }
@article {pmid23326366, year = {2013}, author = {Thom, JM and Clayton, NS}, title = {Re-caching by Western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) cannot be attributed to stress.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {e52936}, pmid = {23326366}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {//Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; *Food ; Male ; Memory/physiology ; Motivation/physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Stress, Psychological/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {Western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) live double lives, storing food for the future while raiding the stores of other birds. One tactic scrub-jays employ to protect stores is "re-caching"-relocating caches out of sight of would-be thieves. Recent computational modelling work suggests that re-caching might be mediated not by complex cognition, but by a combination of memory failure and stress. The "Stress Model" asserts that re-caching is a manifestation of a general drive to cache, rather than a desire to protect existing stores. Here, we present evidence strongly contradicting the central assumption of these models: that stress drives caching, irrespective of social context. In Experiment (i), we replicate the finding that scrub-jays preferentially relocate food they were watched hiding. In Experiment (ii) we find no evidence that stress increases caching. In light of our results, we argue that the Stress Model cannot account for scrub-jay re-caching.}, }
@article {pmid23315084, year = {2013}, author = {Boogert, NJ and Arbilly, M and Muth, F and Seed, AM}, title = {Do crows reason about causes or agents? The devil is in the controls.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {110}, number = {4}, pages = {E273}, pmid = {23315084}, issn = {1091-6490}, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; }, }
@article {pmid23308113, year = {2013}, author = {Birky, CW}, title = {Species detection and identification in sexual organisms using population genetic theory and DNA sequences.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {e52544}, pmid = {23308113}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Antarctic Regions ; Arctic Regions ; Crows/*genetics ; DNA/*genetics ; Felidae/*genetics ; Female ; Gastropoda/*genetics ; *Genetic Speciation ; Genetics, Population ; Hepatophyta/*genetics ; Indonesia ; Male ; Phylogeny ; Population Dynamics ; Species Specificity ; Taiwan ; }, abstract = {Phylogenetic trees of DNA sequences of a group of specimens may include clades of two kinds: those produced by stochastic processes (random genetic drift) within a species, and clades that represent different species. The ratio of the mean pairwise sequence difference between a pair of clades (K) to the mean pairwise sequence difference within a clade (θ) can be used to determine whether the clades are samples from different species (K/θ ≥ 4) or the same species (K/θ<4) with probability ≥ 0.95. Previously I applied this criterion to delimit species of asexual organisms. Here I use data from the literature to show how it can also be applied to delimit sexual species using four groups of sexual organisms as examples: ravens, spotted leopards, sea butterflies, and liverworts. Mitochondrial or chloroplast genes are used because these segregate earlier during speciation than most nuclear genes and hence detect earlier stages of speciation. In several cases the K/θ ratio was greater than 4, confirming the original authors' intuition that the clades were sufficiently different to be assigned to different species. But the K/θ ratio split each of two liverwort species into two evolutionary species, and showed that support for the distinction between the common and Chihuahuan raven species is weak. I also discuss some possible sources of error in using the K/θ ratio; the most significant one would be cases where males migrate between different populations but females do not, making the use of maternally inherited organelle genes problematic. The K/θ ratio must be used with some caution, like all other methods for species delimitation. Nevertheless, it is a simple theory-based quantitative method for using DNA sequences to make rigorous decisions about species delimitation in sexual as well as asexual eukaryotes.}, }
@article {pmid23307635, year = {2014}, author = {Savadjiev, P and Whitford, TJ and Hough, ME and Clemm von Hohenberg, C and Bouix, S and Westin, CF and Shenton, ME and Crow, TJ and James, AC and Kubicki, M}, title = {Sexually dimorphic white matter geometry abnormalities in adolescent onset schizophrenia.}, journal = {Cerebral cortex (New York, N.Y. : 1991)}, volume = {24}, number = {5}, pages = {1389-1396}, pmid = {23307635}, issn = {1460-2199}, support = {P41EB015902/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; R01MH082918/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH074794/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01MH050740/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; P50MH080272/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; G0500092/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; R01MH074794/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH092862/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH050740/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; P41RR013218/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; U54EB005149/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; U54 EB005149/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; P50 MH080272/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH082918/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; P41 RR013218/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; R01MH092862/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; P41 EB015902/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Depression/etiology ; Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Female ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Linear Models ; Male ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Schizophrenia/complications/*pathology ; *Sex Characteristics ; White Matter/growth &amp; development/*pathology ; }, abstract = {The normal human brain is characterized by a pattern of gross anatomical asymmetry. This pattern, known as the "torque", is associated with a sexual dimorphism: The male brain tends to be more asymmetric than that of the female. This fact, along with well-known sex differences in brain development (faster in females) and onset of psychosis (earlier with worse outcome in males), has led to the theory that schizophrenia is a disorder in which sex-dependent abnormalities in the development of brain torque, the correlate of the capacity for language, cause alterations in interhemispheric connectivity, which are causally related to psychosis (Crow TJ, Paez P, Chance SE. 2007. Callosal misconnectivity and the sex difference in psychosis. Int Rev Psychiatry. 19(4):449-457.). To provide evidence toward this theory, we analyze the geometry of interhemispheric white matter connections in adolescent-onset schizophrenia, with a particular focus on sex, using a recently introduced framework for white matter geometry computation in diffusion tensor imaging data (Savadjiev P, Kindlmann GL, Bouix S, Shenton ME, Westin CF. 2010. Local white geometry from diffusion tensor gradients. Neuroimage. 49(4):3175-3186.). Our results reveal a pattern of sex-dependent white matter geometry abnormalities that conform to the predictions of Crow's torque theory and correlate with the severity of patients' symptoms. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to associate geometrical differences in white matter connectivity with torque in schizophrenia.}, }
@article {pmid23302603, year = {2013}, author = {Okusaga, O and Stewart, MC and Butcher, I and Deary, I and Fowkes, FG and Price, JF}, title = {Smoking, hypercholesterolaemia and hypertension as risk factors for cognitive impairment in older adults.}, journal = {Age and ageing}, volume = {42}, number = {3}, pages = {306-311}, doi = {10.1093/ageing/afs193}, pmid = {23302603}, issn = {1468-2834}, support = {/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; /BHF_/British Heart Foundation/United Kingdom ; MR/K026992/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; G0700704/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; /CSO_/Chief Scientist Office/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Age Factors ; Aged ; Aging/*psychology ; Antihypertensive Agents/therapeutic use ; Biomarkers/blood ; Blood Pressure/drug effects ; Cholesterol/blood ; *Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology/prevention &amp; control/psychology ; Diastole ; Female ; Humans ; Hypercholesterolemia/blood/*complications/diagnosis/drug therapy ; Hypertension/*complications/diagnosis/drug therapy/physiopathology ; Hypolipidemic Agents/therapeutic use ; Linear Models ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Multivariate Analysis ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Prospective Studies ; Risk Factors ; Scotland ; Smoking/*adverse effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: the prevalence of all types of cognitive impairment, including dementia, is increasing but knowledge of aetiological factors is still evolving.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: this study aimed to evaluate the association between cardiovascular risk factors and cognitive function in older persons.<br><br>DESIGN, SETTING AND SUBJECTS: a population-based cohort design involving 2,312 men and women (aged 50-75) enrolled in the University of Edinburgh Aspirin for Asymptomatic Atherosclerosis trial.<br><br>METHODS: cognitive tests included the Mill Hill Vocabulary Scale, auditory verbal learning test (AVLT), digit symbol test, verbal fluency test (VFT), Raven's Progressive Matrices and the trail making test. A 'g' score (measure of general intelligence) was computed for each subject. Regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between relevant variables.<br><br>RESULTS: higher diastolic BP was negatively associated with AVLT (&#x3b2; = -0.153, P < 0.01), and with an estimated decline on AVLT (&#x3b2; = -0.125, P < 0.01). Smoking was negatively associated with all the cognitive variables except VFT. The total cholesterol level was not associated with cognitive function or estimated decline.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: smoking and elevated blood pressure may be risk factors for cognitive decline, and thus potential targets for preventive and therapeutic interventions.}, }
@article {pmid23302569, year = {2012}, author = {Chen, Q and Jiang, LL and Zhang, GZ and Wang, Y and Yan, XX and Yang, J and Li, EZ and Zhou, XL and Xu, KM}, title = {[Cognitive function of 172 cases of 6 - 13 years old children with epilepsy in regular school].}, journal = {Zhonghua er ke za zhi = Chinese journal of pediatrics}, volume = {50}, number = {10}, pages = {771-776}, pmid = {23302569}, issn = {0578-1310}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*epidemiology/psychology ; Comorbidity ; Epilepsy/*complications/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Quality of Life ; Reaction Time ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To study the cognitive function, its correlation with and the impact on quality of life in epileptic children aged 6-13 years in regular school.<br><br>METHOD: Cognitive function of 172 children with various types of epilepsy were measured using a computerized neuropsychological test battery including six items. Their scores across the neuropsychological measures were compared with 172 healthy control subjects from the general population strictly matched for age, sex and the region where education was accepted. The quality of life was measured in 105 cases by the Quality of Life in Epilepsy Inventory (QOLIE-31).<br><br>RESULT: (1) After adjusting for age, gender, and education, children with epilepsy performed significantly worse than healthy control subjects on 5 of 6 cognitive tasks, including Raven's progressive matrices correct number (8.6 vs. 14.0), choice reaction time (620.4 ms vs. 489.5 ms), word-rhyming tasks (2796.9 ms vs. 2324.4 ms), simple substraction correct number (28.6 vs. 35.5)as well as number comparision (1002.4 ms vs. 803.1 ms), P < 0.01. When an impairment index was calculated, 44.2% patients had at least one abnormal score on the test battery, compared with 14.5% of healthy volunteers, there was statistically significant differences between the two groups, P < 0.001. (2) Children with new onset epilepsy before the treatment with anti-epilepstic drugs performed significantly worse than healthy controls on 5 of 6 cognitive tasks, including Raven's progressive matrices correct number (9.1 vs. 13.8), choice reaction time (625.8 ms vs.474.5 ms), word-rhyming tasks(3051.8 ms vs. 2575.4 ms), simple substraction correct number (28.9 vs. 35.3) as well as number comparison (942.4 ms vs. 775.8 ms), P < 0.01. (3) Cognitive performance was not related to the age of onset, type of epilepsy, therapy duration or comorbid emotional and behavior disorders, P > 0.05. (4) 105 cases filled in the QOLIE-31 questionaire, the total score of the quality of life in the group without cognitive impairment and psychical conditions was the highest (60.5 &#xb1; 0.9), and the lowest total score was found in group with cognitive impairment and psychical conditions (54.6 &#xb1; 1.5), there were highly significant differences between the groups, P < 0.001.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Almost one-half of the children with epilepsy accepting regular education had at least one abnormal score in the battery tests. Newly diagnosed untreated patients with epilepsy are cognitively compromised before the start of antiepileptic drug medication. Cognitive impairment was not related to the epilepsy-related or psychiatric variables. Cognitive impairment and mental disorders require further attention and essential therapy, which is important to the improvement of the quality of life in epileptic children.}, }
@article {pmid23300592, year = {2012}, author = {Martin-Ordas, G and Schumacher, L and Call, J}, title = {Sequential tool use in great apes.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {7}, number = {12}, pages = {e52074}, pmid = {23300592}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Choice Behavior ; *Decision Making ; Female ; Food ; Hominidae ; Male ; *Problem Solving ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Sequential tool use is defined as using a tool to obtain another non-food object which subsequently itself will serve as a tool to act upon a further (sub)goal. Previous studies have shown that birds and great apes succeed in such tasks. However, the inclusion of a training phase for each of the sequential steps and the low cost associated with retrieving the longest tools limits the scope of the conclusions. The goal of the experiments presented here was, first to replicate a previous study on sequential tool use conducted on New Caledonian crows and, second, extend this work by increasing the cost of retrieving a tool in order to test tool selectivity of apes. In Experiment 1, we presented chimpanzees, orangutans and bonobos with an out-of-reach reward, two tools that were available but too short to reach the food and four out-of-reach tools differing in functionality. Similar to crows, apes spontaneously used up to 3 tools in sequence to get the reward and also showed a strong preference for the longest out-of reach tool independently of the distance of the food. In Experiment 2, we increased the cost of reaching for the longest out-of reach tool. Now apes used up to 5 tools in sequence to get the reward and became more selective in their choice of the longest tool as the costs of its retrieval increased. The findings of the studies presented here contribute to the growing body of comparative research on tool use.}, }
@article {pmid23300574, year = {2012}, author = {Griesser, M and Schneider, NA and Collis, MA and Overs, A and Guppy, M and Guppy, S and Takeuchi, N and Collins, P and Peters, A and Hall, ML}, title = {Causes of ring-related leg injuries in birds - evidence and recommendations from four field studies.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {7}, number = {12}, pages = {e51891}, pmid = {23300574}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Guidelines as Topic ; Inflammation/etiology/*prevention &amp; control ; Leg Injuries/*chemically induced/complications/prevention &amp; control ; Organometallic Compounds/chemistry/*toxicity ; Plastics/chemistry/*toxicity ; }, abstract = {One of the main techniques for recognizing individuals in avian field research is marking birds with plastic and metal leg rings. However, in some species individuals may react negatively to rings, causing leg injuries and, in extreme cases, the loss of a foot or limb. Here, we report problems that arise from ringing and illustrate solutions based on field data from Brown Thornbills (Acanthiza pusilla) (2 populations), Siberian Jays (Perisoreus infaustus) and Purple-crowned Fairy-wrens (Malurus coronatus). We encountered three problems caused by plastic rings: inflammations triggered by material accumulating under the ring (Purple-crowned Fairy-wrens), contact inflammations as a consequence of plastic rings touching the foot or tibio-tarsal joint (Brown Thornbills), and toes or the foot getting trapped in partly unwrapped flat-band colour rings (Siberian Jays). Metal rings caused two problems: the edges of aluminium rings bent inwards if mounted on top of each other (Brown Thornbills), and too small a ring size led to inflammation (Purple-crowned Fairy-wrens). We overcame these problems by changing the ringing technique (using different ring types or larger rings), or using different adhesive. Additionally, we developed and tested a novel, simple technique of gluing plastic rings onto metal rings in Brown Thornbills. A review of studies reporting ring injuries (N = 23) showed that small birds (<55 g body weight) are more prone to leg infections while larger birds (>35 g) tend to get rings stuck over their feet. We give methodological advice on how these problems can be avoided, and suggest a ringing hazard index to compare the impact of ringing in terms of injury on different bird species. Finally, to facilitate improvements in ringing techniques, we encourage online deposition of information regarding ringing injuries of birds at a website hosted by the European Union for Bird Ringing (EURING).}, }
@article {pmid23290802, year = {2012}, author = {Cao, YQ and Wang, YL and Zhu, XN and Dou, YG and Li, HB and Sun, W and Zheng, J}, title = {[Improvement of universal salt iodization program on the intelligence quotient among children in Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture of Gansu].}, journal = {Zhonghua liu xing bing xue za zhi = Zhonghua liuxingbingxue zazhi}, volume = {33}, number = {9}, pages = {917-920}, pmid = {23290802}, issn = {0254-6450}, mesh = {Child ; Child Development ; China/epidemiology ; Female ; Goiter/epidemiology/*prevention &amp; control ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Iodine/deficiency ; Male ; Minority Groups ; *Sodium Chloride, Dietary ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To assess the improvement of intelligence quotient through an Universal Salt Iodization Supply Program, among children.<br><br>METHODS: 3518 and 1611 children were selected from primary schools in Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture of Gansu in 2006 and 2010 respectively. Intelligence quotient (IQ) were measured by the revised Chinese Combined Raven Test-C2 (CRT-C2).<br><br>RESULTS: In 2006, the average IQ of children aged 8-10 was 85.1, including 16.7% of them with IQ &#x2264; 69. The average IQ was between 80-90 in different counties and cities, with significant differences (P < 0.05). The average IQs were 92.0, 90.6 and 81.8 among 8, 9 and 10 years old children respectively with 10 year old's low than those 8 and 9 year olds (P < 0.05). The average IQs of boys and girls were 84.5 and 85.6, but with no significant difference (P > 0.05). The average IQ of children aged 8-10 in 2010 was 97.2 and 12 points higher than in 2006 (P < 0.05), but 8 IQ points (P < 0.05) less than the average level 105 from the overall of Gansu province. 4.7% of the children having an IQ &#x2264; 69. IQ of children from Linxia city and Yongjing county, were up to the theoretical level of 100, with an average IQ at around 95 in other counties. The average IQs between counties or cities showed significant differences. The IQ of 8, 9 year olds and 10 year olds did not present significant difference (P > 0.05), but in boys (98.8) and in girls (95.9) the difference was significant (P < 0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The average IQ was close to the theoretical level (100) with the gradual implementation of universal salt iodization program, showing that the iodized salt did play a key role on children's intelligence. However, the average IQ was still lower than the average level of the whole Gansu province in 2010.}, }
@article {pmid23270271, year = {2012}, author = {Kurbatov, OL and Pobedonostseva, EIu and Gurgenova, FR and Bulaeva, KB}, title = {[Variation of the parameters of natural reproduction and Crow's indices in the ethnic groups of Dagestan].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {48}, number = {10}, pages = {1221-1227}, pmid = {23270271}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Distribution ; Aged ; *Birth Rate ; Dagestan ; Demography ; Ethnicity/*genetics ; Female ; Humans ; Infertility, Female/genetics ; Middle Aged ; *Population Dynamics ; Pregnancy ; Reproduction/*genetics/physiology ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {Using the 2002 All-Russian population census data, the parameters of differential fertility as a component of natural selection (Crow's indices) have been calculated for women of seven age cohorts of the seven most numerous ethnic groups of the Republic of Dagestan. It has been shown that in the population of Dagestan in the second half of the 20th century the intensities of two types of selection tended to decrease, viz., intragroup selection relaxed in each ethnic group due to considerable reduction of interfamily variance in fertility and intergroup selection relaxed due to reduction ofinterethnic differences in fertility. A reduction of the average number of offspring (kappa) was observed in all ethnic groups, suggesting the spread of birth regulation practices (abortion and contraception). Nevertheless, all Muslim groups (aboriginal Dagestan ethnic groups and Azerbaijanis) are still characterized by an extended pattern of reproduction (2.7 < kappa < 3.3); in Russians kappa = 2.1. Interethnic differentials in natural reproduction rates, along with migration processes, account for the dynamics of the ethnic composition and gene-pool structure of the population of the Republic of Dagestan.}, }
@article {pmid23269511, year = {2013}, author = {Prakas, P and Kutkienė, L and Butkauskas, D and Sruoga, A and Zalakevičius, M}, title = {Molecular and morphological investigations of Sarcocystis corvusi sp. nov. from the jackdaw (Corvus monedula).}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {112}, number = {3}, pages = {1163-1167}, pmid = {23269511}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Animals ; Cluster Analysis ; Crows/*parasitology ; DNA, Protozoan/chemistry/genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal/chemistry/genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal Spacer/chemistry/genetics ; Genes, rRNA ; Microscopy ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Protozoan/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 28S/genetics ; Sarcocystis/*classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification/ultrastructure ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {One type of sarcocyst was found in two of eight investigated jackdaws (Corvus monedula) and proposed as Sarcocystis corvusi sp. nov. By light microscope, cysts resembled a thick thread and were very long (the largest fragment found amounted to 6 mm) and relatively thin (up to 60 μm). The cyst wall measured <1 μm and seemed smooth. Using a computerized image analysis system, knolls, which resembled protrusions, were visible on the wall surface. Ultrastructurally, the cyst wall was wavy and reached up to 1.1 μm. The waves were of different heights and resembled low protrusions. The parasitophorous vacuolar membrane had many invaginations. Lancet- or orange segment-shaped cystozoites were 5.9-7.3 μm long. These sarcocysts had type-1 tissue cyst wall. According to 18S rRNA, 28S rRNA genes and ITS-1 region sequences, it was shown that S. corvusi is a genetically separate species. On the basis of these genetic markers, S. corvusi was most closely related to S. columbae, S. calchasi and S. wobeseri which parasitize birds and are characterized by the same type of sarcocyst wall.}, }
@article {pmid23266476, year = {2013}, author = {Wronka, E and Kaiser, J and Coenen, AM}, title = {Psychometric intelligence and P3 of the event-related potentials studied with a 3-stimulus auditory oddball task.}, journal = {Neuroscience letters}, volume = {535}, number = {}, pages = {110-115}, doi = {10.1016/j.neulet.2012.12.012}, pmid = {23266476}, issn = {1872-7972}, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation ; Brain/*physiology ; Brain Mapping ; *Cognition ; *Event-Related Potentials, P300 ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Magnets ; Male ; Psychometrics ; Tomography ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Relationship between psychometric intelligence measured with Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM) and event-related potentials (ERP) was examined using 3-stimulus oddball task. Subjects who had scored higher on RAPM exhibited larger amplitude of P3a component. Additional analysis using the Standardized Low Resolution Electromagnetic Tomography (sLORETA) revealed that this effect corresponds with stronger activity within the frontal cortex and the cingulate gyrus. High intelligence can also be linked with greater P3b response and stronger activity within the parietal cortex and the posterior cingulate gyrus. It may be concluded that the processes related to the initial stage of attention engagement as indexed by P3a, as well as the later stimulus evaluation and classification reflected in P3b, are more intense in subjects scoring higher on RAPM. The quality of mental abilities can therefore be related to differences of the activity in frontal and parietal brain regions.}, }
@article {pmid23264693, year = {2012}, author = {Braun, A and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Social bonds and rank acquisition in raven nonbreeder aggregations.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {84}, number = {6}, pages = {1507-1515}, pmid = {23264693}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {Complex social life has been characterized as cognitively challenging and recently, social relationships such as long-term social bonds and alliances have been identified as key elements for brain evolution. Whereas good evidence is available to support the link between social relations and cognition in mammals, it remains unsatisfying for birds. Here we investigated the role of avian social bonds in a nonbreeder aggregation of ravens, Corvus corax, in the Austrian Alps. We individually marked 138 wild ravens, representing approximately half of a population that uses the area of a local zoo for foraging. For 2 years, we observed the dynamics of group composition and the birds' agonistic and affiliative interactions. We identified two levels of organization: the formation of an unrelated local group and the individuals' engagement in social bonds of different length and reciprocity pattern. Whereas belonging to the local group had no significant effect on conflicts won during foraging, the individual bonding type did. Birds that engaged in affiliative relationships were more successful when competing for food than those without such bonds. Bonded birds did suffer from aggression by other bonded birds and, probably as a consequence, most of the ravens' social relations were not stable over time. These results support the idea that social bonding and selective cooperation and competition are prominent features in nonbreeding ravens. Proximately, bonding may qualify as a social manoeuvre that facilitates access to resources; ultimately it might function to assess the quality of a partner in these long-term monogamous birds.}, }
@article {pmid23242676, year = {2012}, author = {Konrad, SK and Miller, SN}, title = {Application of a degree-day model of West Nile virus transmission risk to the East Coast of the United States of America.}, journal = {Geospatial health}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {15-20}, doi = {10.4081/gh.2012.100}, pmid = {23242676}, issn = {1970-7096}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*transmission/virology ; Connecticut/epidemiology ; Crows/virology ; Culicidae/*virology ; Feeding Behavior ; Geographic Information Systems ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; Models, Biological ; Risk Assessment/methods ; Seasons ; South Carolina/epidemiology ; Temperature ; United States/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/*transmission/veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {A geographical information systems model that identifies regions of the United States of America (USA) susceptible to West Nile virus (WNV) transmission risk is presented. This system has previously been calibrated and tested in the western USA; in this paper we use datasets of WNV-killed birds from South Carolina and Connecticut to test the model in the eastern USA. Because their response to WNV infection is highly predictable, American crows were chosen as the primary source for model calibration and testing. Where crow data are absent, other birds are shown to be an effective substitute. Model results show that the same calibrated model demonstrated to work in the western USA has the same predictive ability in the eastern USA, allowing for a continental-scale evaluation of the transmission risk of WNV at a daily time step. The calibrated model is independent of mosquito species and requires inputs of only local maximum and minimum temperatures. Of benefit to the general public and vector control districts, the model predicts the onset of seasonal transmission risk, although it is less effective at identifying the end of the transmission risk season.}, }
@article {pmid23237197, year = {2013}, author = {Molina-Morales, M and Gabriel Martínez, J and Martín-Gálvez, D and A Dawson, D and Rodríguez-Ruiz, J and Burke, T and Avilés, JM}, title = {Evidence of long-term structured cuckoo parasitism on individual magpie hosts.}, journal = {The Journal of animal ecology}, volume = {82}, number = {2}, pages = {389-398}, doi = {10.1111/1365-2656.12022}, pmid = {23237197}, issn = {1365-2656}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Birds/genetics/*physiology ; Female ; Genetic Fitness ; Host-Parasite Interactions ; *Nesting Behavior ; Oviposition ; Passeriformes ; }, abstract = {Brood parasites usually reduce their host's breeding success, resulting in strong selection for the evolution of host defences. Intriguingly, some host individuals/populations show no defence against parasitism, which has been explained within the frame of three different evolutionary hypotheses. One of these hypotheses posits that intermediate levels of defence at the population level may result from nonrandom distribution of parasitism among host individuals (i.e. structured parasitism). Empirical evidence for structured brood parasitism is, however, lacking for hosts of European cuckoos due to the absence of long-term studies. Here, we seek to identify the patterns of structured parasitism by studying great spotted cuckoo parasitism on individual magpie hosts over five breeding seasons. We also aim to identify whether individual characteristics of female magpies and/or their territories were related to the status of repeated parasitism. We found that 28·3% of the females in our population consistently escaped from cuckoo parasitism. Only 11·3% of females were always parasitized, and the remaining 60·4% changed their parasitism status. The percentage of females that maintained their status of parasitism (i.e. either parasitized or nonparasitized) between consecutive years varied over the study. Females that never suffered cuckoo parasitism built bigger nests than parasitized females at the beginning of the breeding season and smaller nests than those of parasitized females later in the season. Nonparasitized females also moved little from year to year and preferred areas with different characteristics over the course of the breeding season than parasitized females. Overall, females escaping from cuckoo parasitism reared twice as many chicks per year than those that were parasitized. In conclusion, our study reveals for first time the existence of a structured pattern of cuckoo parasitism based on phenotypic characteristics of individual hosts and of their territories.}, }
@article {pmid23226454, year = {2012}, author = {Martin, LA and Horriat, NL}, title = {The effects of birth order and birth interval on the phenotypic expression of autism spectrum disorder.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {7}, number = {11}, pages = {e51049}, pmid = {23226454}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {U24 MH081810/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; 1U24MH081810/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Birth Intervals ; *Birth Order ; Child ; Child Development Disorders, Pervasive/*pathology ; Demography ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Motor Activity ; Phenotype ; Siblings ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {A rise in the prevalence of diagnosed cases of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been reported in several studies in recent years. While this rise in ASD prevalence is at least partially related to increased awareness and broadened diagnostic criteria, the role of environmental factors cannot be ruled out, especially considering that the cause of most cases of ASD remains unknown. The study of families with multiple affected children can provide clues about ASD etiology. While the majority of research on ASD multiplex families has focused on identifying genetic anomalies that may underlie the disorder, the study of symptom severity across ASD birth order may provide evidence for environmental factors in ASD. We compared social and cognitive measures of behavior between over 300 first and second affected siblings within multiplex autism families obtained from the Autism Genetic Resource Exchange dataset. Measures included nonverbal IQ assessed with the Ravens Colored Progressive Matrices, verbal IQ assessed with the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test, and autism severity assessed with the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), an instrument established as a quantitative measure of autism. The results indicated that females were more severely impacted by ASD than males, especially first affected siblings. When first and second affected siblings were compared, significant declines in nonverbal and verbal IQ scores were observed. In addition, SRS results demonstrated a significant increase in autism severity between first and second affected siblings consistent with an overall decline in function as indicated by the IQ data. These results remained significant after controlling for the age and sex of the siblings. Surprisingly, the SRS scores were found to only be significant when the age difference between siblings was less than 2 years. These results suggest that some cases of ASD are influenced by a dosage effect involving unknown epigenetic, environmental, and/or immunological factors.}, }
@article {pmid23222444, year = {2013}, author = {Shaw, RC and Clayton, NS}, title = {Careful cachers and prying pilferers: Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius) limit auditory information available to competitors.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {280}, number = {1752}, pages = {20122238}, pmid = {23222444}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {*Acoustic Stimulation ; *Animal Communication ; Animals ; *Competitive Behavior ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; Photic Stimulation ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Food-storing corvids use many cache-protection and pilfering strategies. We tested whether Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius) reduce the transfer of auditory information to a competitor when caching and pilfering. We gave jays a noisy and a quiet substrate to cache in. Compared with when alone, birds cached less in the noisy substrate when with a conspecific that could hear but could not see them caching. By contrast, jays did not change the amount cached in the noisy substrate when they were with a competitor that could see and hear them caching compared with when they were alone. Together, these results suggest that jays reduce auditory information during caching as a cache-protection strategy. By contrast, as pilferers, jays did not attempt to conceal their presence from a cacher and did not prefer a silent viewing perch over a noisy one when observing caching. However, birds vocalized less when watching caching compared with when they were alone, when they were watching a non-caching conspecific or when they were watching their own caches being pilfered. Pilfering jays may therefore attempt to suppress some types of auditory information. Our results raise the possibility that jays both understand and can attribute auditory perception to another individual.}, }
@article {pmid23219707, year = {2013}, author = {Kearns, AM and Joseph, L and Cook, LG}, title = {A multilocus coalescent analysis of the speciational history of the Australo-Papuan butcherbirds and their allies.}, journal = {Molecular phylogenetics and evolution}, volume = {66}, number = {3}, pages = {941-952}, doi = {10.1016/j.ympev.2012.11.020}, pmid = {23219707}, issn = {1095-9513}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Base Sequence ; Bayes Theorem ; *Biodiversity ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; *Ecosystem ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Likelihood Functions ; Models, Genetic ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Papua New Guinea ; Passeriformes/classification/*genetics ; *Phylogeny ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Changes in geology, sea-level and climate are hypothesised to have been major driving processes of evolutionary diversification (speciation and extinction) in the Australo-Papuan region. Here we use complete species-level sampling and multilocus (one mitochondrial gene, five nuclear loci) coalescent analyses to estimate evolutionary relationships and test hypotheses about the role of changes in climate and landscape in the diversification of the Australo-Papuan butcherbirds and allies (Cracticinae: Cracticus, Strepera, Peltops). Multilocus species trees supported the current classification of the morphologically, ecologically and behaviourally divergent Australian Magpie (Cracticus tibicen (previously Gymnorhina tibicen)) as a member of an expanded genus Cracticus, which includes seven other species with 'butcherbird' morphology and behaviour. Non-monophyly of currently recognised species within Peltops and the white-throated butcherbird species-group (C.argenteus, C.mentalis, C. torquatus) at both mtDNA and nuclear loci suggest that a comprehensive taxonomic revision is warranted for both of these groups. The time-calibrated multilocus species tree revealed an early divergence between the New Guinean rainforest-restricted Peltops lineage and the largely open-habitat inhabiting Cracticus (butcherbirds and magpies) plus Strepera (currawongs) lineage around 17-28Ma, as well as a relatively recent radiation of lineages within Cracticus over the past 8Ma. Overall, patterns and timings of speciation were consistent with the hypothesis that both the expansion of open sclerophyllous woodlands 25-30Ma and the formation of extensive grassland-dominated woodlands 6-8Ma allowed the radiation of lineages adapted to open woodland habitats.}, }
@article {pmid23216295, year = {2013}, author = {Poletti, M and Frosini, D and Pagni, C and Baldacci, F and Giuntini, M and Mazzucchi, S and Tognoni, G and Lucetti, C and Del Dotto, P and Ceravolo, R and Bonuccelli, U}, title = {The relationship between motor symptom lateralization and cognitive performance in newly diagnosed drug-naïve patients with Parkinson's disease.}, journal = {Journal of clinical and experimental neuropsychology}, volume = {35}, number = {2}, pages = {124-131}, doi = {10.1080/13803395.2012.751966}, pmid = {23216295}, issn = {1744-411X}, mesh = {Aged ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/epidemiology/*etiology ; Female ; Functional Laterality/*physiology ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/*complications/epidemiology ; Psychomotor Performance ; }, abstract = {The side of motor symptom predominance may influence cognitive performance in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD): PD patients with right-side motor symptom predominance typically present difficulties in tasks of language and verbal memory, whereas PD patients with left-side motor symptom predominance typically present difficulties in visuospatial tasks. The current study aimed at investigating the relationship between motor symptom lateralization and cognitive performance in PD patients without the possible confounding effect of dopaminergic drugs, which may enhance or impair cognition on the basis of assessed function and disease stage. From the initial sample of 137 consecutive newly diagnosed drug-naïve (de novo) PD patients, clinical follow-ups and neurological examinations identified 108 right-handed patients with a unilateral motor presentation or a clear motor asymmetry (59 right-PD: 54.6%; 49 left-PD: 45.4%). Any cognitive difference emerged between right-PD patients and left-PD patients at this disease stage. Scores of lateralized motor impairment severity correlated with some cognitive performances: Right motor impairment correlated with a measure of set shifting (Trail Making Test B-A), and left motor impairment correlated with phonemic fluency and tasks with visuospatial material (Colored Progressive Matrices of Raven, Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Copy and Immediate Recall). Findings of the current study supported the conclusion that the side of clinical motor predominance scarcely influences cognition in the early untreated stages of PD, suggesting that cognitive differences between subgroups of lateralized PD patients probably may appear in more advanced disease stages.}, }
@article {pmid23214488, year = {2012}, author = {Furdová, A and Růžička, J and Sramka, M and Králik, G and Chorváth, M and Kusenda, P}, title = {[Choroidal melanoma stage T1 - comparison of the planning protocol for stereotactic radiosurgery and proton beam irradiation].}, journal = {Ceska a slovenska oftalmologie : casopis Ceske oftalmologicke spolecnosti a Slovenske oftalmologicke spolecnosti}, volume = {68}, number = {4}, pages = {156-161}, pmid = {23214488}, issn = {1211-9059}, mesh = {Aged ; Choroid Neoplasms/pathology/*radiotherapy/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Melanoma/*radiotherapy/*surgery ; *Proton Therapy ; *Radiosurgery ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Comparison of two methods of irradiation of patients with malignant choroidal melanoma - stereotactic radiosurgery and proton beam irradiation. External (non-contact) applied irradiation is used as a source of accelerated protons, respectively helium ions. This method allows applications of ionizing irradiation also despite the low radiosensitivity of cells of malignant melanoma of the uvea (MMU). External source of ionizing radiation is modulated current energy electrons, protons or neutrons, accelerated in linear accelerators. From the external medium voltages resources (4-16 MeV) are irradiated tissues with target dose of 5.0-24.0 Gy. Volume protons permeate straight the structures of the eye to a certain distance. The use of proton radiation density of ionized protons increases in the vicinity of the impact due to energy losses for electrons interacting with the environment. At the end of the track there is a huge increase in the ionization dose ("Bragg spike"). Therefore, the structures surrounding the eye at the point of entry and little affected and increasing the dose at the end of the proton beam is ideal for the desired therapeutic effect. Fractionated application is also possible.<br><br>CASE REPORT: In December 2011 we performed stereotactic radiosurgery to treat female patient (born 1939) with malignant melanoma of the choroid stage T1 N0 M0. Plan has been drawn up for stereotactic irradiation - model for linear accelerator Clinac, Corvus planning system ver. 6.2, verification and OmniPro IMRT planning system Liebinger ver. 4.3. Patient characteristics were compared with the virtual plan for proton radiation therapy, and we used the scheme in Physical parameters FIAN-technical center in the Russian Federation. We compared both planning protocols and assess in particular the extent of radiation surrounding non-tumor tissue.<br><br>RESULTS: When comparing the two planning schemes irradiation levels of surrounding tissues and risk structures (lens, optic nerve, chiasm) in both methods were corresponding to the required standard.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Treatment of uveal melanoma through proton beam irradiation in Slovakia is not available yet, although it has several advantages, such as fractionation and the possibility of achieving a higher dose of irradiation to deposit (more than 50.0 Gy). The fundamental difference between the two methods for an eye is particularly the possibility of proton beam irradiation exposure of tumor of iris and ciliary body, which can not be solved through stereotactic radiosurgery. The dose to the tumor during irradiation can be optimized. The model device allowed us to make OPTMI - Therapy (Proton Treatment with Optimized Modulated Intensity).}, }
@article {pmid23214201, year = {2012}, author = {Wiśniewska, B and Mikołajczyk-Wieczorek, W and Polis, B and Polis, L and Zakrzewski, K and Nowosławska, E}, title = {The long-term psychological effects of surgical treatment using neuroendoscopic techniques and Orbis Sigma shunt implantation in children suffering from hydrocephalus.}, journal = {Advances in clinical and experimental medicine : official organ Wroclaw Medical University}, volume = {21}, number = {3}, pages = {373-384}, pmid = {23214201}, issn = {1899-5276}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Child ; *Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Equipment Design ; Female ; Humans ; Hydrocephalus/etiology/psychology/*surgery ; Intellectual Disability/diagnosis/*etiology/physiopathology/psychology ; Neuroendoscopy/*adverse effects ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Poland ; *Psychomotor Performance ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt/*adverse effects/instrumentation ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hydrocephalus, which is the most common disease of the central nervous system in children, has a diverse etiology and clinical picture. Children suffering from hydrocephalus are often treated either by using a neuroendoscopic procedure or by Orbis Sigma shunt implantation.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the long-term psychological effects of neuroendoscopic surgical treatment on the mental development and cognitive abilities of children suffering from hydrocephalus, in comparison with the results following Orbis Sigma shunt implantation, and to assess the impact of the kind of hydrocephalus on the outcome of the treatment.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study involved 78 patients treated surgically for chronic noncommunicating hydrocephalus: 39 patients who had undergone neuroendoscopic surgery (average age: 12 years, SD +/- 7 years), and 39 who had undergone implantation of a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt (average age: 14 years +/- 5 years). The psychomotor development of the two groups was analyzed using psychomotor development tests including the Brunet-Lezine test, the Terman-Merrill test, Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices, Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, the Benton Visual Retention Test, the Bender Visual Motor Gestalt Test, the Rey Fifteen-Item Memory Test, lateralization tests and a questionnaire.<br><br>RESULTS: In the shunt group there were statistically significant prevalences hydrocephalus diagnosed perinatally and in the first year of life (p = 0.0291), epileptic seizures (p = 0.0181), intellectual disability (p = 0.0049) and gait disturbances (p = 0.006). There were statistically significant differences between two groups in the relative changes of linear measurements of the cerebral ventricle depending on the type of treatment: Relative Frontal Horn Index (RFHI): 0.93 following endoscopy and 0.64 following shunt implantation; Relative Evans' ratio (RER): 0.93 following endoscopy and 0.62 after shunt implantation; Relative Frontal and Occipital Horn Ratio (RFOHR): 0.89 after endoscopy and 0.69 after shunt implantation. The time treatment was undertaken and the incidence of mental retardation did not differ significantly between the two groups.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The analysis of cerebral ventricle enlargement expressed in linear ventricular enlargement measurements revealed statistically important differences in the intellectual, cognitive and motor development between the groups treated with the two neurosurgical techniques.}, }
@article {pmid23210315, year = {2012}, author = {Sillett, TS and Chandler, RB and Royle, JA and Kery, M and Morrison, SA}, title = {Hierarchical distance-sampling models to estimate population size and habitat-specific abundance of an island endemic.}, journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America}, volume = {22}, number = {7}, pages = {1997-2006}, doi = {10.1890/11-1400.1}, pmid = {23210315}, issn = {1051-0761}, mesh = {Animals ; California ; *Ecosystem ; *Islands ; Models, Biological ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Population Density ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {Population size and habitat-specific abundance estimates are essential for conservation management. A major impediment to obtaining such estimates is that few statistical models are able to simultaneously account for both spatial variation in abundance and heterogeneity in detection probability, and still be amenable to large-scale applications. The hierarchical distance-sampling model of J. A. Royle, D. K. Dawson, and S. Bates provides a practical solution. Here, we extend this model to estimate habitat-specific abundance and rangewide population size of a bird species of management concern, the Island Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma insularis), which occurs solely on Santa Cruz Island, California, USA. We surveyed 307 randomly selected, 300 m diameter, point locations throughout the 250-km2 island during October 2008 and April 2009. Population size was estimated to be 2267 (95% CI 1613-3007) and 1705 (1212-2369) during the fall and spring respectively, considerably lower than a previously published but statistically problematic estimate of 12 500. This large discrepancy emphasizes the importance of proper survey design and analysis for obtaining reliable information for management decisions. Jays were most abundant in low-elevation chaparral habitat; the detection function depended primarily on the percent cover of chaparral and forest within count circles. Vegetation change on the island has been dramatic in recent decades, due to release from herbivory following the eradication of feral sheep (Ovis aries) from the majority of the island in the mid-1980s. We applied best-fit fall and spring models of habitat-specific jay abundance to a vegetation map from 1985, and estimated the population size of A. insularis was 1400-1500 at that time. The 20-30% increase in the jay population suggests that the species has benefited from the recovery of native vegetation since sheep removal. Nevertheless, this jay's tiny range and small population size make it vulnerable to natural disasters and to habitat alteration related to climate change. Our results demonstrate that hierarchical distance-sampling models hold promise for estimating population size and spatial density variation at large scales. Our statistical methods have been incorporated into the R package unmarked to facilitate their use by animal ecologists, and we provide annotated code in the Supplement.}, }
@article {pmid23207304, year = {2012}, author = {Khanna, J and Bandoro, J and Sica, RJ and McElroy, CT}, title = {New technique for retrieval of atmospheric temperature profiles from Rayleigh-scatter lidar measurements using nonlinear inversion.}, journal = {Applied optics}, volume = {51}, number = {33}, pages = {7945-7952}, doi = {10.1364/AO.51.007945}, pmid = {23207304}, issn = {1539-4522}, abstract = {The conventional method of calculating atmospheric temperature profiles using Rayleigh-scattering lidar measurements has limitations that necessitate abandoning temperatures retrieved at the greatest heights, due to the assumption of a pressure value required to initialize the integration at the highest altitude. An inversion approach is used to develop an alternative way of retrieving nightly atmospheric temperature profiles from the lidar measurements. Measurements obtained by the Purple Crow lidar facility located near The University of Western Ontario are used to develop and test this new technique. Our results show temperatures can be reliably retrieved at all heights where measurements with adequate signal-to-noise ratio exist. A Monte Carlo technique was developed to provide accurate estimates of both the systematic and random uncertainties for the retrieved nightly average temperature profile. An advantage of this new method is the ability to seed the temperature integration from the lowest rather than the greatest height, where the variability of the pressure is smaller than in the mesosphere or lower thermosphere and may in practice be routinely measured by a radiosonde, rather than requiring a rocket or satellite-borne measurement. Thus, this new technique extends the altitude range of existing Rayleigh-scatter lidars 10-15 km, producing the equivalent of four times the power-aperture product.}, }
@article {pmid23204264, year = {2013}, author = {Hannaford, B and Rosen, J and Friedman, DW and King, H and Roan, P and Cheng, L and Glozman, D and Ma, J and Kosari, SN and White, L}, title = {Raven-II: an open platform for surgical robotics research.}, journal = {IEEE transactions on bio-medical engineering}, volume = {60}, number = {4}, pages = {954-959}, doi = {10.1109/TBME.2012.2228858}, pmid = {23204264}, issn = {1558-2531}, mesh = {Biomedical Research ; Equipment Design ; Humans ; *Internet ; Robotics/*instrumentation ; *Software ; Surgery, Computer-Assisted/*instrumentation ; }, abstract = {The Raven-II is a platform for collaborative research on advances in surgical robotics. Seven universities have begun research using this platform. The Raven-II system has two 3-DOF spherical positioning mechanisms capable of attaching interchangeable four DOF instruments. The Raven-II software is based on open standards such as Linux and ROS to maximally facilitate software development. The mechanism is robust enough for repeated experiments and animal surgery experiments, but is not engineered to sufficient safety standards for human use. Mechanisms in place for interaction among the user community and dissemination of results include an electronic forum, an online software SVN repository, and meetings and workshops at major robotics conferences.}, }
@article {pmid23196431, year = {2013}, author = {Khare, V and Verma, A and Kar, B and Srinivasan, N and Brysbaert, M}, title = {Bilingualism and the increased attentional blink effect: evidence that the difference between bilinguals and monolinguals generalizes to different levels of second language proficiency.}, journal = {Psychological research}, volume = {77}, number = {6}, pages = {728-737}, pmid = {23196431}, issn = {1430-2772}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention/physiology ; Attentional Blink/*physiology ; Executive Function/physiology ; Humans ; Language Tests ; *Multilingualism ; Reaction Time/*physiology ; Time Factors ; Visual Perception/physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The attentional blink task involves rapid serial presentation of visual stimuli, two of which the participants have to report. The usual finding is that participants are impaired at reporting the second target if it appears in close temporal proximity to the first target. Previous research has shown that the effect is stronger in bilinguals than monolinguals. We investigated whether the difference between monolinguals and proficient bilinguals can be extended to bilinguals of different proficiency levels. Therefore, we replicated the paradigm in a large sample of Hindi-English bilinguals with different proficiency levels of English, as measured with a validated vocabulary test. We additionally measured the participants' intelligence with the raven progressive matrices. We found that the size of the attentional blink effect correlates with the degree of second language proficiency and not with the degree of intelligence. This indicates that research on executive control functions can be done with bilinguals of different proficiency levels. Our results are also in line with recent findings showing that the attentional blink effect is not primarily due to limited processing resources.}, }
@article {pmid23171257, year = {2012}, author = {Gabel, S}, title = {Power, leadership and transformation: the doctor's potential for influence.}, journal = {Medical education}, volume = {46}, number = {12}, pages = {1152-1160}, doi = {10.1111/medu.12036}, pmid = {23171257}, issn = {1365-2923}, mesh = {Delivery of Health Care/standards ; Education, Medical/*methods ; Humans ; Interpersonal Relations ; *Leadership ; *Physician's Role ; *Power, Psychological ; Psychology, Social/trends ; }, abstract = {CONTEXT: Power and leadership are concepts that are linked. Both are studied too infrequently in medical and health care settings, given the responsibilities and opportunities doctors and other health care personnel have to exert leadership and power appropriately to foster patient-centred and health care organisational goals.<br><br>METHODS: This paper reviews Raven's concept of power, clarifies the bases of power that are available to doctors in different roles and provides illustrations of the application of the bases of power in medical practice. The relationship between power and leadership is explored, with an emphasis on how power and leadership are linked through the personal characteristics and competencies of the leader.<br><br>RESULTS: &#x2002; Transformational leadership illustrates the incorporation and elaboration of power strategies into a principles-driven, relationship-oriented and empirically grounded form of leadership. Illustrations of the appropriate and inappropriate use of power and leadership in health care settings are provided.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The study of power, the study of leadership and their linkage should be incorporated to a greater degree into medical education at all levels. Strategies to achieve this end are suggested.}, }
@article {pmid23170215, year = {2012}, author = {Roshier, DA and Heinsohn, R and Adcock, GJ and Beerli, P and Joseph, L}, title = {Biogeographic models of gene flow in two waterfowl of the Australo-Papuan tropics.}, journal = {Ecology and evolution}, volume = {2}, number = {11}, pages = {2803-2814}, pmid = {23170215}, issn = {2045-7758}, abstract = {There are many large, easy-to-observe anseriform birds (ducks, geese, and swans) in northern Australia and New Guinea and they often gather in large numbers. Yet, the structure of their populations and their regional movements are poorly understood. Lack of understanding of population structure limits our capacity to understand source-sink dynamics relevant to their conservation or assess risks associated with avian-borne pathogens, in particular, avian influenza for which waterfowl are the main reservoir species. We set out to assess present-day genetic connectivity between populations of two widely distributed waterfowl in the Australo-Papuan tropics, magpie goose Anseranas semipalmata (Latham, 1798) and wandering whistling-duck Dendrocygna arcuata (Horsfield, 1824). Microsatellite data were obtained from 237 magpie geese and 64 wandering whistling-duck. Samples were collected across northern Australia, and at one site each in New Guinea and Timor Leste. In the wandering whistling-duck, genetic diversity was significantly apportioned by region and sampling location. For this species, the best model of population structure was New Guinea as the source population for all other populations. One remarkable result for this species was genetic separation of two flocks sampled contemporaneously on Cape York Peninsula only a few kilometers apart. In contrast, evidence for population structure was much weaker in the magpie goose, and Cape York as the source population provided the best fit to the observed structure. The fine scale genetic structure observed in wandering whistling-duck and magpie goose is consistent with earlier suggestions that the west-coast of Cape York Peninsula is a flyway for Australo-Papuan anseriforms between Australia and New Guinea across Torres Strait.}, }
@article {pmid23163445, year = {2012}, author = {}, title = {Friederike Range: Award for Distinguished Scientific Early Career Contributions to Psychology.}, journal = {The American psychologist}, volume = {67}, number = {8}, pages = {638-640}, doi = {10.1037/a0029722}, pmid = {23163445}, issn = {1935-990X}, mesh = {Animals ; Austria ; *Awards and Prizes ; History, 21st Century ; Psychology/history ; }, abstract = {Presents a short biography of one of the winners of the American Psychological Association's Award for Distinguished Scientific Early Career Contributions to Psychology. The 2012 winner is Friederike Range for outstanding contributions to the understanding of the complex social minds of nonhuman animals. Through ingenious experimental approaches, Range has opened windows into the social cognition of monkeys, ravens, dogs, and wolves. With dogs, she was the first to apply the touch screen paradigm, and she has conducted groundbreaking studies on selective imitation and inequity avoidance. By co-founding new research facilities, such as the Clever Dog Lab and the Wolf Science Center, she has created novel opportunities for future scientific developments and for a new generation of young researchers. Range's Award citation and a selected bibliography are also presented here.}, }
@article {pmid23162139, year = {2012}, author = {Boeckle, M and Szipl, G and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Who wants food? Individual characteristics in raven yells.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {84}, number = {5}, pages = {1123-1130}, pmid = {23162139}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {Discriminating between different individuals is considered as prerequisite for any forms of social knowledge. In birds, discriminating between conspecifics based on individual characteristics has been tested mainly in the auditory domain with territorial calls and songs for neighbour and kin discrimination but little is known about discriminating between signallers in food calls. Ravens utilize a large set of calls and show individually distinctive call repertoires. Moreover, they show advanced social tactics during foraging, suggesting that they are capable of dealing with conspecifics on an individual basis. When confronted with food that is difficult to access, ravens produce particular calls ('haa', yells); these calls attract other ravens and, thus, have been hypothesized to serve as 'functionally referential signals'. We here examined whether ravens are able to differentiate between individuals on the basis of these food calls. We first analysed individual differences in call parameters, using 424 food calls recorded from 18 individually marked wild ravens in the Austrian Alps. We then tested 18 captive ravens for recognition of individual differences in food calls with playbacks, using a habituation-dishabituation design. We found evidence that food calls show individual call characteristics in fundamental frequency and intensity-related measurements providing ravens with the opportunity to respond according to these individually distinct features. Furthermore, ravens discriminated between unfamiliar ravens in the habituation-dishabituation experiment, indicating that they may discern individual differences. Our results suggest that raven food calls are individually distinct and that the birds may be capable of differentiating between food-calling individuals.}, }
@article {pmid23161215, year = {2013}, author = {Ujfalussy, DJ and Miklósi, &#xc1; and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Ontogeny of object permanence in a non-storing corvid species, the jackdaw (Corvus monedula).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {16}, number = {3}, pages = {405-416}, pmid = {23161215}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Cognition ; *Crows/growth &amp; development ; *Feeding Behavior ; Memory ; }, abstract = {The aim of the present study was to investigate the ontogeny of object permanence in a non-caching corvid species, the jackdaw (Corvus monedula). Jackdaws are often presented as typical examples of non-storing corvids, as they cache either very little or not at all. We used Uzgiris and Hunt's Scale 1 tasks to determine the age at which the certain stages set in and the final stage of this capacity that is reached. Our results show that the lack of food-storing behaviour is not associated with inferior object permanence abilities in the jackdaw, as our subjects (N = 19) have reached stage 5 competence (to follow successive visible displacements) at the average age of 61 days post-hatch and showed some evidence of stage 6 competence (to follow advanced invisible displacements) at 81 days post-hatch and thereafter. As we appreciate that object permanence abilities have a very wide ecological significance, our positive results are probably the consequence of other, more fundamental ecological pressures, such as nest-hole reproduction or prey-predator interactions.}, }
@article {pmid23156897, year = {2012}, author = {Obozova, TA and Smirnova, AA and Zorina, ZA}, title = {Relational learning in glaucous-winged gulls (Larus glaucescens).}, journal = {The Spanish journal of psychology}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {873-880}, doi = {10.5209/rev_sjop.2012.v15.n3.39380}, pmid = {23156897}, issn = {1138-7416}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Charadriiformes/*physiology ; Concept Formation/*physiology ; Discrimination, Psychological/*physiology ; Generalization, Psychological/*physiology ; Male ; }, abstract = {An experimental approach was created for the comparative investigation of the cognitive abilities of the glaucous-winged gull (Larus glaucescens) in their natural habitat. The territoriality of gulls during the breeding period and the fact that the gulls inhabiting the territory of the Komandorsky Reserve are practically not in fear of humans allowed us to work with individually recognized birds directly at their nest sites inside the colony. The possibility of using this approach to investigate their cognitive abilities was demonstrated on 24 gulls, in particular, to investigate their abilities for relative size generalization. The first experiment illustrated that the gulls are able to learn to discriminate two pairs of stimuli according to the feature: 'larger' or 'smaller'. They were then given a test to transfer the discriminative rule in which novel combinations of the same stimuli were used. The gulls successfully coped with only a few of these tests. In the next experiment the birds were taught to discriminate four pairs of similar stimuli. The majority of the birds coped with the tests to transfer the discriminative rule both to the novel combinations of familiar stimuli, and also to the novel stimuli of the familiar category (items of different colour and shape). However, none of the birds transferred the discriminative rule to stimuli of a novel category (sets differing by number of components). Thus, in their ability to generalize at a preconceptual level gulls are more comparable with pigeons, whereas large-brained birds (crows and parrots), are capable of concept formation.}, }
@article {pmid23153159, year = {2013}, author = {Paltrow, LM}, title = {Roe v Wade and the new Jane Crow: reproductive rights in the age of mass incarceration.}, journal = {American journal of public health}, volume = {103}, number = {1}, pages = {17-21}, pmid = {23153159}, issn = {1541-0048}, mesh = {*Abortion, Legal ; Criminal Law/*statistics &amp; numerical data/trends ; Female ; Humans ; Pregnancy ; Reproductive Rights/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; }, abstract = {All pregnant women, not just those who seek to end a pregnancy, have benefited from Roe v Wade. Today's system of mass incarceration makes it likely that if Roe is overturned women who have abortions will go to jail. Efforts to establish separate legal "personhood" for fertilized eggs, embryos, and fetuses, however, are already being used as the basis for the arrests and detentions of and forced interventions on pregnant women, including those who seek to go to term. Examination of these punitive actions makes clear that attacks on Roe threaten all pregnant women not only with the loss of their reproductive rights and physical liberty but also with the loss of their status as full constitutional persons.}, }
@article {pmid23148967, year = {2012}, author = {Toro, MA}, title = {Jim Crow: a great population geneticist.}, journal = {Journal of animal breeding and genetics = Zeitschrift fur Tierzuchtung und Zuchtungsbiologie}, volume = {129}, number = {6}, pages = {425-426}, doi = {10.1111/jbg.12015}, pmid = {23148967}, issn = {1439-0388}, mesh = {Animals ; Genetics, Population/*history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; }, }
@article {pmid23147227, year = {2013}, author = {Mikolasch, S and Kotrschal, K and Schloegl, C}, title = {Transitive inference in jackdaws (Corvus monedula).}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {92}, number = {}, pages = {113-117}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2012.10.017}, pmid = {23147227}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Learning/*physiology ; Transfer, Psychology ; }, abstract = {Transitive inference (TI) refers to the cognitive ability to derive relationships between items that have never been presented together before. TI could be a useful tool for individuals living in large social groups, as these are confronted with an increasing number of possible dyadic relationships between group members. Through TI, one could potentially identify rank relationships between group members and thereby avoid costly direct agonistic interactions. Jackdaws seem ideal candidates to test for the ability of TI as they live in relatively complex groups, in which such skills could be useful. We presently report the results of jackdaws in a touch screen experiment. Three individuals were trained to memorise an ordered sequence of five differently coloured squares (A-E), which were presented in four pairs consisting of two adjacent colours each (A/B, B/C, C/D, D/E). After reaching the pre-defined criteria in each single colour pair in a time comparable to other species, they were confronted with an unknown pair of two non-adjacent colours (B/D). The birds were able to identify the relationship according to the previously learned sequence by preferring B over D.}, }
@article {pmid23144789, year = {2012}, author = {Kajantie, E and Räikkönen, K and Henriksson, M and Leskinen, JT and Forsén, T and Heinonen, K and Pesonen, AK and Osmond, C and Barker, DJ and Eriksson, JG}, title = {Stroke is predicted by low visuospatial in relation to other intellectual abilities and coronary heart disease by low general intelligence.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {7}, number = {11}, pages = {e46841}, pmid = {23144789}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {MC_UP_A620_1017/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Cohort Studies ; Coronary Disease/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Finland/epidemiology ; Humans ; Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Prognosis ; Risk Factors ; Social Class ; *Space Perception ; Stroke/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Low intellectual ability is associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. Most studies have used a general intelligence score. We studied whether three different subscores of intellectual ability predict these disorders.<br><br>METHODS: We studied 2,786 men, born between 1934 and 1944 in Helsinki, Finland, who as conscripts at age 20 underwent an intellectual ability test comprising verbal, visuospatial (analogous to Raven's progressive matrices) and arithmetic reasoning subtests. We ascertained the later occurrence of coronary heart disease and stroke from validated national hospital discharge and death registers.<br><br>RESULTS: 281 men (10.1%) had experienced a coronary heart disease event and 131 (4.7%) a stroke event. Coronary heart disease was predicted by low scores in all subtests, hazard ratios for each standard deviation (SD) lower score ranging from 1.21 to 1.30 (confidence intervals 1.08 to 1.46). Stroke was predicted by a low visuospatial reasoning score, the corresponding hazard ratio being 1.23 (95% confidence interval 1.04 to 1.46), adjusted for year and age at testing. Adjusted in addition for the two other scores, the hazard ratio was 1.40 (1.10 to 1.79). This hazard ratio was little affected by adjustment for socioeconomic status in childhood and adult life, whereas the same adjustments attenuated the associations between intellectual ability and coronary heart disease. The associations with stroke were also unchanged when adjusted for systolic blood pressure at 20 years and reimbursement for adult antihypertensive medication.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Stroke is predicted by low visuospatial reasoning scores in relation to scores in the two other subtests. This association may be mediated by common underlying causes such as impaired brain development, rather than by mechanisms associated with risk factors shared by stroke and coronary heart disease, such as socio-economic status, hypertension and atherosclerosis.}, }
@article {pmid23143268, year = {2013}, author = {Arbab, M and Mahony, S and Cho, H and Chick, JM and Rolfe, PA and van Hoff, JP and Morris, VW and Gygi, SP and Maas, RL and Gifford, DK and Sherwood, RI}, title = {A multi-parametric flow cytometric assay to analyze DNA-protein interactions.}, journal = {Nucleic acids research}, volume = {41}, number = {2}, pages = {e38}, pmid = {23143268}, issn = {1362-4962}, support = {5TL1EB008540/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; P01-NS055923-01/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; P30 HD018655/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; 5UL1DE019581/DE/NIDCR NIH HHS/United States ; DE019021/DE/NIDCR NIH HHS/United States ; 5R01HG002668/HG/NHGRI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; DNA/*metabolism ; DNA Methylation ; DNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism ; Epigenesis, Genetic ; Flow Cytometry/*methods ; Histones/metabolism ; Mice ; Transcription Factors/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Interactions between DNA and transcription factors (TFs) guide cellular function and development, yet the complexities of gene regulation are still far from being understood. Such understanding is limited by a paucity of techniques with which to probe DNA-protein interactions. We have devised magnetic protein immobilization on enhancer DNA (MagPIE), a simple, rapid, multi-parametric assay using flow cytometric immunofluorescence to reveal interactions among TFs, chromatin structure and DNA. In MagPIE, synthesized DNA is bound to magnetic beads, which are then incubated with nuclear lysate, permitting sequence-specific binding by TFs, histones and methylation by native lysate factors that can be optionally inhibited with small molecules. Lysate protein-DNA binding is monitored by flow cytometric immunofluorescence, which allows for accurate comparative measurement of TF-DNA affinity. Combinatorial fluorescent staining allows simultaneous analysis of sequence-specific TF-DNA interaction and chromatin modification. MagPIE provides a simple and robust method to analyze complex epigenetic interactions in vitro.}, }
@article {pmid23140247, year = {2012}, author = {Valiakos, G and Touloudi, A and Athanasiou, LV and Giannakopoulos, A and Iacovakis, C and Birtsas, P and Spyrou, V and Dalabiras, Z and Petrovska, L and Billinis, C}, title = {Serological and molecular investigation into the role of wild birds in the epidemiology of West Nile virus in Greece.}, journal = {Virology journal}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {266}, pmid = {23140247}, issn = {1743-422X}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Neutralizing/blood/immunology ; Antibodies, Viral/blood/immunology ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology ; Disease Outbreaks ; Genes, Viral ; Greece/epidemiology ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; Serotyping ; West Nile Fever/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/classification/*genetics/*immunology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: A West Nile virus (WNV) disease outbreak occurred in 2010 in northern Greece with a total of 262 laboratory-confirmed human cases and 35 deaths. A serological and molecular surveillance was conducted on samples of hunter-harvested wild birds prior to and during the outbreak.<br><br>FINDINGS: Serum and tissue samples from 295 resident and migratory wild birds, hunter-harvested during the 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 hunting seasons at the epicenter of the outbreak in northern Greece, were tested for the presence of WNV-specific antibodies by immunofluorescence assay and virus neutralization test. WNV neutralizing antibodies were detected in 53 avian samples. Fourteen positive sera were obtained from birds hunter-harvested up to 8 months prior to the human outbreak. Specific genetic determinants of virulence (His249Pro NS3 mutation, E-glycosylation motif) were recognized in a WNV lineage 2 strain isolated from a hunter-harvested Eurasian magpie and a nucleotide mismatch was revealed between this strain and a mosquito WNV strain isolated one month earlier in the same area.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This is the first report regarding exposure of wild birds to WNV prior to the 2010 outbreak, in Greece. Results provide evidence of the implication of wild birds in a local enzootic cycle that could allow maintenance and amplification of the virus before and during the outbreak. Findings of past exposure of migratory birds to WNV upon their arrival in Greece during autumn migration, suggest avian species with similar migration traits as candidates for the introduction of WNV into Greece. The possibility that an endemic circulation of WNV could have caused the outbreak, after an amplification cycle due to favorable conditions cannot be excluded.}, }
@article {pmid23128165, year = {2012}, author = {DeCarolis, A and Corigliano, V and Comparelli, A and Sepe-Monti, M and Cipollini, V and Orzi, F and Ferracuti, S and Giubilei, F}, title = {Neuropsychological patterns underlying anosognosia in people with cognitive impairment.}, journal = {Dementia and geriatric cognitive disorders}, volume = {34}, number = {3-4}, pages = {216-223}, doi = {10.1159/000343488}, pmid = {23128165}, issn = {1421-9824}, mesh = {Aged ; Awareness ; Cognition Disorders/*complications/diagnosis/psychology ; Dementia/*complications/diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {AIMS: To investigate, in a group of subjects with cognitive impairment, the relationship between anosognosia, in each dimension of insight, and neuropsychological domains.<br><br>METHODS: Two hundred and seventy-one subjects affected by cognitive impairment were consecutively enrolled. Anosognosia was evaluated by means of the Clinical Insight Rating Scale (CIRS). The general level of cognitive impairment was evaluated by means of the Mini-Mental State Examination, while 8 cognitive domains were examined by means of neuropsychological tests.<br><br>RESULTS: The number of subjects with anosognosia evaluated by means of the CIRS total score as well as those with anosognosia divided according to the reason for visit was higher in moderately cognitively impaired subjects than in mildly cognitively impaired subjects (p < 0.001). A relationship between anosognosia and neuropsychological scores was only found in mild cognitive impairment, with subjects with anosognosia displaying significantly lower Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices Test and Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test-delayed recall scores than subjects without anosognosia.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggests that the relationship between the severity of cognitive deficits and anosognosia in subjects with cognitive impairment is partial and depends on the specific domain of unawareness. Furthermore, in the early phase of cognitive impairment, the presence of specific cognitive deficits suggests that the nature of anosognosia is domain-specific.}, }
@article {pmid23123143, year = {2013}, author = {Schweitzer, C and Goldstein, MH and Place, NJ and Adkins-Regan, E}, title = {Long-lasting and sex-specific consequences of elevated egg yolk testosterone for social behavior in Japanese quail.}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {63}, number = {1}, pages = {80-87}, doi = {10.1016/j.yhbeh.2012.10.011}, pmid = {23123143}, issn = {1095-6867}, mesh = {Animals ; Choice Behavior/drug effects/physiology ; Coturnix/*metabolism ; Egg Yolk/*drug effects/metabolism ; Female ; Male ; Sex Factors ; Sexual Behavior, Animal/*drug effects/physiology ; *Social Behavior ; Testosterone/metabolism/*pharmacology ; }, abstract = {In birds, early exposure to steroid hormones deposited in egg yolks is hypothesized to result in long-lasting effects on brain and behavior. However, the long-term effects of maternal androgens on the development of social behavior, and whether these could interfere with the effects of the endogenous gonadal hormones that mediate sexual differentiation, remain poorly known. To answer these questions, we enhanced yolk testosterone by injecting testosterone (T) in oil into Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) eggs prior to incubation. Vehicle-injected (V) eggs served as controls. From age 3 weeks to 8 weeks, sexual development was measured using morphological and physiological traits, and social behavior was measured, including male-typical sexual behavior. In females, treatment with testosterone boosted growth. Males from T-injected eggs developed an affiliative preference for familiar females and differed from V-injected males in the acoustic features of their crows, whereas sexual interest (looking behavior) and copulatory behavior were not affected. These long-lasting and sex-specific yolk testosterone effects on the development of dimorphic traits, but without disrupting sexual differentiation of reproductive behavior suggest potential organizational effects of maternal testosterone, but acting through separate processes than the endocrine mechanisms previously shown to control sexual differentiation. Separate processes could reflect the action of androgens at different times or on multiple targets that are differentially sensitive to steroids or develop at different rates.}, }
@article {pmid23119131, year = {2012}, author = {Seraj, B and Shahrabi, M and Shadfar, M and Ahmadi, R and Fallahzadeh, M and Eslamlu, HF and Kharazifard, MJ}, title = {Effect of high water fluoride concentration on the intellectual development of children in makoo/iran.}, journal = {Journal of dentistry (Tehran, Iran)}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {221-229}, pmid = {23119131}, issn = {2008-2185}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Prolonged excessive intake of fluoride during child's growth and development stages has been associated with mental and physical problems. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of excessive fluoride intake on the intelligence quotient (IQ) of children living in five rural areas in Makoo/Iran.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 293 children aged 6-11 years were selected from five villages in Makoo with normal fluoride (0.8&#xb1;0.3 ppm), medium fluoride (3.1&#xb1;0.9 ppm) and high fluoride (5.2&#xb1;1.1 ppm) in their water supplies. The IQ of each child was measured by the Raven's test. Educational and residential information and the medical history of each child was recorded by a questionnaire completed by the parents. Data were analyzed by ANOVA test with a significance level of 0.05.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean IQ scores decreased from 97.77&#xb1;18.91 for the normal fluoride group to 89.03&#xb1;12.99 for the medium fluoride group and to 88.58&#xb1;16.01 for the high fluoride group (P=0.001).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Children residing in areas with higher than normal water fluoride levels demonstrated more impaired development of intelligence. Thus, children's intelligence may be affected by high water fluoride levels.}, }
@article {pmid23116146, year = {2013}, author = {Oravcova, V and Ghosh, A and Zurek, L and Bardon, J and Guenther, S and Cizek, A and Literak, I}, title = {Vancomycin-resistant enterococci in rooks (Corvus frugilegus) wintering throughout Europe.}, journal = {Environmental microbiology}, volume = {15}, number = {2}, pages = {548-556}, doi = {10.1111/1462-2920.12002}, pmid = {23116146}, issn = {1462-2920}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/*pharmacology ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; Carbon-Oxygen Ligases/genetics ; Cluster Analysis ; Crows/genetics/*microbiology ; Disease Reservoirs/*microbiology ; Electrophoresis, Gel, Pulsed-Field ; Enterococcus/*drug effects/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/*physiology ; Europe ; Feces/microbiology ; Gene Transfer, Horizontal/genetics ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; Vancomycin/*pharmacology ; *Vancomycin Resistance/genetics ; }, abstract = {This study's aims were to assess the prevalence of, and to characterize, vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) from rooks (Corvus frugilegus) wintering in Europe during 2010/2011. Faeces samples were cultivated selectively for VRE and characterized. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) were used to examine epidemiologic relationships of vanA-containing VRE. The vanA-carrying VRE were tested in vitro for mobility of vancomycin resistance traits. VRE were found in 62 (6%) of 1073 rook samples. Enterococcal species diversity comprised Enterococcus gallinarum (48 isolates), followed by E. faecium (9) and E. faecalis (5). Eight VRE harboured the vanA and ermB genes. Seven vanA-carrying VRE originated from the Czech Republic and one from Germany. All vanA-carrying VRE were identified as E. faecium. Based on MLST analysis, six vanA-positive isolates were grouped as ST92 type, one isolate belonged to ST121, and the remaining one was described as a novel type ST671. Seven out of eight isolates were able to transfer the vancomycin resistance trait via filter mating with a transfer rate of 8.95 ± 3.25 × 10(-7) transconjugants per donor. In conclusion, wintering rooks in some European countries may disseminate clinically important enterococci and pose a risk for environmental contamination.}, }
@article {pmid23114866, year = {2013}, author = {Valkering, KP and Golanó, P and van Dijk, CN and Kerkhoffs, GM}, title = {'Web impingement' of the ankle: a case report. Reply to the comments made by Michel P. J. van den Bekerom and Eric E. J. Raven.}, journal = {Knee surgery, sports traumatology, arthroscopy : official journal of the ESSKA}, volume = {21}, number = {8}, pages = {1947-1948}, pmid = {23114866}, issn = {1433-7347}, mesh = {Ankle Injuries/*pathology ; Ankle Joint/*pathology ; Arthralgia/*pathology ; Humans ; Joint Diseases/*pathology ; Male ; }, }
@article {pmid23106562, year = {2012}, author = {Lee, WY and Lee, SI and Jablonski, PG and Choe, JC}, title = {Genetic composition of communal roosts of the Eurasian Magpie (Pica pica) inferred from non-invasive samples.}, journal = {Zoological science}, volume = {29}, number = {11}, pages = {766-769}, doi = {10.2108/zsj.29.766}, pmid = {23106562}, issn = {0289-0003}, mesh = {Alleles ; Animals ; Feces ; *Genetic Variation ; Microsatellite Repeats ; *Social Behavior ; Songbirds/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Many animal species form communal roosts in which they aggregate and sleep together. Several benefits of communal roost have been suggested, but due to lack of data on relatedness among group members, it is unknown whether these benefits can be amplified by the formation of kin-based communal roosts. We investigate the genetic composition of two winter roosts of Eurasian Magpies (Pica pica), using microsatellite markers on non-invasive samples. Using permutation tests by reshuffling the alleles presented in the roosts, we determined that individuals in the communal roosts of magpies were not more related than expected by chance, suggesting that kinship may not be a driving force for the formation of communal roosts in magpies. However, the pairwise relatedness and estimated relationship based on a maximum likelihood approach revealed that the roosts involve both kin and non-kin. Relatedness coefficients varied widely within a roost, indicating that family subgroups form a small proportion of the total number of birds in a roost. Our results suggest that ecological benefits of communal roost in animals are sufficient for the evolution of communal roosts without any involvement of kinship.}, }
@article {pmid23097511, year = {2012}, author = {Taylor, AH and Knaebe, B and Gray, RD}, title = {An end to insight? New Caledonian crows can spontaneously solve problems without planning their actions.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {279}, number = {1749}, pages = {4977-4981}, pmid = {23097511}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; Conditioning, Operant ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; New Caledonia ; New Zealand ; *Problem Solving ; Psychomotor Performance ; *Tool Use Behavior ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Animals rarely solve problems spontaneously. Some bird species, however, can immediately find a solution to the string-pulling problem. They are able to rapidly gain access to food hung on the end of a long string by repeatedly pulling and then stepping on the string. It is currently unclear whether these spontaneous solutions are produced by insight or by a perceptual-motor feedback loop. Here, we presented New Caledonian crows and humans with a novel horizontal string-pulling task. While the humans succeeded, no individual crow showed a significant preference for the connected string, and all but one failed to gain the food even once. These results clearly show that string pulling in New Caledonian crows is generated not by insight, but by perceptual feedback. Animals can spontaneously solve problems without planning their actions.}, }
@article {pmid23094795, year = {2012}, author = {Librizzi, M and Longo, A and Chiarelli, R and Amin, J and Spencer, J and Luparello, C}, title = {Cytotoxic effects of Jay Amin hydroxamic acid (JAHA), a ferrocene-based class I histone deacetylase inhibitor, on triple-negative MDA-MB231 breast cancer cells.}, journal = {Chemical research in toxicology}, volume = {25}, number = {11}, pages = {2608-2616}, doi = {10.1021/tx300376h}, pmid = {23094795}, issn = {1520-5010}, mesh = {Antineoplastic Agents/chemical synthesis/chemistry/*pharmacology ; Apoptosis/drug effects ; Cell Cycle/drug effects ; Cell Survival/drug effects ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Drug Screening Assays, Antitumor ; Ferrous Compounds/chemical synthesis/*chemistry/*pharmacology ; Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors/chemical synthesis/chemistry/*pharmacology ; Humans ; Hydroxamic Acids/chemical synthesis/chemistry/*pharmacology ; Membrane Potential, Mitochondrial/drug effects ; Metallocenes ; Molecular Structure ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; Tumor Cells, Cultured ; }, abstract = {The histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis) are a class of chemically heterogeneous anticancer agents of which suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA) is a prototypical member. SAHA derivatives may be obtained by three-dimensional manipulation of SAHA aryl cap, such as the incorporation of a ferrocene unit like that present in Jay Amin hydroxamic acid (JAHA) and homo-JAHA [ Spencer , et al. (2011) ACS Med. Chem. Lett. 2 , 358 - 362 ]. These metal-based SAHA analogues have been tested for their cytotoxic activity toward triple-negative MDA-MB231 breast cancer cells. The results obtained indicate that of the two compounds tested, only JAHA was prominently active on breast cancer cells with an IC(50) of 8.45 μM at 72 h of treatment. Biological assays showed that exposure of MDA-MB231 cells to the HDACi resulted in cell cycle perturbation with an alteration of S phase entry and a delay at G(2)/M transition and in an early reactive oxygen species production followed by mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) dissipation and autophagy inhibition. No annexin binding was observed after short- (5 h) and longer (24 and 48 h) term incubation with JAHA, thereby excluding the promotion of apoptosis by the HDACi. Although caution must be exercised in extrapolation of in vitro results to the in vivo situation for which research on animals and human trials are needed, nevertheless JAHA treatment possesses the potential for its development as an agent for prevention and/or therapy of "aggressive" breast carcinoma, thus prompting us to get more insight into the molecular basis of its antibreast cancer activity.}, }
@article {pmid23092010, year = {2012}, author = {Culliney, S and Pejchar, L and Switzer, R and Ruiz-Gutierrez, V}, title = {Seed dispersal by a captive corvid: the role of the 'Alalā (Corvus hawaiiensis) in shaping Hawai'i's plant communities.}, journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America}, volume = {22}, number = {6}, pages = {1718-1732}, doi = {10.1890/11-1613.1}, pmid = {23092010}, issn = {1051-0761}, mesh = {Animals ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; Crows/*physiology ; Demography ; Ecosystem ; Environmental Monitoring ; Feeding Behavior ; Fruit ; Hawaii ; Plants/*classification ; Seeds/*physiology ; Trees ; }, abstract = {Species loss can lead to cascading effects on communities, including the disruption of ecological processes such as seed dispersal. The endangered 'Alalā (Corvus hawaiiensis), the largest remaining species of native Hawaiian forest bird, was once common in mesic and dry forests on the Big Island of Hawai'i, but today it exists solely in captivity. Prior to its extinction in the wild, the 'Alalā may have helped to establish and maintain native Hawaiian forest communities by dispersing seeds of a wide variety of native plants. In the absence of 'Alalā, the structure and composition of Hawai'i's forests may be changing, and some large-fruited plants may be dispersal limited, persisting primarily as ecological anachronisms. We fed captive 'Alalā a variety of native fruits, documented behaviors relating to seed dispersal, and measured the germination success of seeds that passed through the gut of 'Alalā relative to the germination success of seeds in control groups. 'Alalā ate and carried 14 native fruits and provided germination benefits to several species by ingesting their seeds. Our results suggest that some plants rely heavily on 'Alalā for these services. In captivity, juvenile birds displayed seed dispersal behaviors more often than adult birds for most fruiting plants in our study. We introduced captive 'Alalā to two large-fruited, dry-forest plants, not previously recorded as 'Alalā food resources, but which may once have been part of their natural diet. The seed dispersal behavior that 'Alalā displayed toward these species supports the inclusion of dry and mesic forests in 'Alalā habitat restoration plans and adds weight to the idea that plant dispersal limitation may contribute to the rarity of these plants. Our study provides evidence that 'Alalā have the capacity to play a vital role in maintaining the diversity of fruiting plants in native Hawaiian forests through seed dispersal and enhanced seed germination, thus adding greater urgency to efforts to restore 'Alalā to their former range.}, }
@article {pmid23088375, year = {2013}, author = {Barbeau, EB and Soulières, I and Dawson, M and Zeffiro, TA and Mottron, L}, title = {The level and nature of autistic intelligence III: Inspection time.}, journal = {Journal of abnormal psychology}, volume = {122}, number = {1}, pages = {295-301}, doi = {10.1037/a0029984}, pmid = {23088375}, issn = {1939-1846}, support = {//Canadian Institutes of Health Research/Canada ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Autistic Disorder/*diagnosis/psychology ; Cognition/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Regression Analysis ; Speech/physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Across the autism spectrum, level of intelligence is highly dependent on the psychometric instrument used for assessment, and there are conflicting views concerning which measures best estimate autistic cognitive abilities. Inspection time is a processing speed measure associated with general intelligence in typical individuals. We therefore investigated autism spectrum performance on inspection time in relation to two different general intelligence tests. Autism spectrum individuals were divided into autistic and Asperger subgroups according to speech development history. Compared to a typical control group, mean inspection time for the autistic subgroup but not the Asperger subgroup was significantly shorter (by 31%). However, the shorter mean autistic inspection time was evident only when groups were matched on Wechsler IQ and disappeared when they were matched using Raven's Progressive Matrices. When autism spectrum abilities are compared to typical abilities, results may be influenced by speech development history as well as by the instrument used for intelligence matching.}, }
@article {pmid23088145, year = {2012}, author = {Streliaeva, AV and Abdiev, FT and Mamysheva, NO and Sagieva, AT and Kurilov, DV and Lazareva, NB and Vakhidova, AM and Sadykov, VM and Gasparian, ER and Shcheglova, TA and Zuev, SS}, title = {[The epizootology and epidemiology of echinococcosis and paecilomycosis].}, journal = {Meditsinskaia parazitologiia i parazitarnye bolezni}, volume = {}, number = {3}, pages = {21-25}, pmid = {23088145}, issn = {0025-8326}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Domestic/blood/microbiology/parasitology ; Animals, Wild/blood/microbiology/parasitology ; Birds/microbiology/parasitology ; *Coinfection ; *Echinococcosis/blood/epidemiology/parasitology/veterinary ; Echinococcus/isolation &amp; purification ; Humans ; *Mycoses/blood/epidemiology/veterinary ; *Paecilomyces/isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity ; Uzbekistan/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Fungi of the genus Paecilomyces, a causative agent of the fungal disease paecilomycosis, have been found in the blood of productive animals (sheep, cattle, pigs, goats) that are carriers of Echinococcus larvocysts. In the Republic of Uzbekistan, the echinococcosis affection of sheep, cattle, pigs, and goats continues to remain high. Domestic fowls (chickens, turkeys, and gooses) have been established to be blood carriers of Paecilomyces fungi, which is also true for wild birds, such as my-lady's-belts, quails, chukars, and crows. The degree of fungal affection has been also established for birds.}, }
@article {pmid23082115, year = {2012}, author = {VerCauteren, KC and Pilon, JL and Nash, PB and Phillips, GE and Fischer, JW}, title = {Prion remains infectious after passage through digestive system of American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos).}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {7}, number = {10}, pages = {e45774}, pmid = {23082115}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*metabolism ; Digestive System/*metabolism ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Prions/*pathogenicity ; Scrapie/transmission ; Survival Analysis ; }, abstract = {Avian scavengers, such as American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos), have potential to translocate infectious agents (prions) of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) diseases including chronic wasting disease, scrapie, and bovine spongiform encephalopathy. We inoculated mice with fecal extracts obtained from 20 American crows that were force-fed material infected with RML-strain scrapie prions. These mice all evinced severe neurological dysfunction 196-231 d postinoculation (x =198; 95% CI: 210-216) and tested positive for prion disease. Our results suggest a large proportion of crows that consume prion-positive tissue are capable of passing infectious prions in their feces (ˆp=1.0; 95% CI: 0.8-1.0). Therefore, this common, migratory North American scavenger could play a role in the geographic spread of TSE diseases.}, }
@article {pmid23066146, year = {2012}, author = {Dobson, AE and Schmidt, DJ and Hughes, JM}, title = {Sequence variation in the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) does not explain continent-wide plumage color differences in the Australian Magpie (Cracticus tibicen).}, journal = {The Journal of heredity}, volume = {103}, number = {6}, pages = {769-780}, doi = {10.1093/jhered/ess053}, pmid = {23066146}, issn = {1465-7333}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Amino Acid Substitution ; Animals ; Australia ; Evolution, Molecular ; Feathers/*physiology ; Female ; *Genetic Variation ; Haplotypes/genetics ; Male ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Phenotype ; Phylogeography ; Pigmentation/*genetics ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 1/*genetics ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {The genetic basis of plumage color variation has already been determined for many model species; however, the genetic mechanisms responsible for intraspecific color variation in the majority of wild-bird species are yet to be uncovered. The Australian magpie (Cracticus tibicen) is a large black and white passerine which is widely distributed across the Australian continent. The proportion of melanized back plumage varies between regionally delineated subspecies; where back-color forms overlap, intermediate color phenotypes are produced. This study examined the majority (861 bp) of the coding region of the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R), a candidate gene for plumage color differentiation in 98 magpies from across the Australian continent, to determine if the gene is associated with magpie back-color variation and explore phylogeographic signal within the gene. Neutrality and selection tests (Tajima's D, Fu's F (S), MKT) indicate the gene is unlikely to be currently under selection pressure and, together with other lines of evidence, suggest a past demographic expansion event within the species congruent with the results of previous mitochondrial phylogeographic work on this species. None of the 15 synonymous and four nonsynonymous substitutions within MC1R were found to be associated with plumage variation. Our results suggest that genes or regulatory elements other than MC1R may determine back-color variation in C. tibicen.}, }
@article {pmid23059587, year = {2012}, author = {Aparna, PV and Austin, RD and Mathew, P}, title = {PICA.}, journal = {Indian journal of dental research : official publication of Indian Society for Dental Research}, volume = {23}, number = {3}, pages = {426-427}, doi = {10.4103/0970-9290.102246}, pmid = {23059587}, issn = {1998-3603}, mesh = {Adult ; Anemia, Iron-Deficiency/*diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; Pica/*diagnosis ; Tongue Diseases/diagnosis ; Tooth Attrition/diagnosis ; }, abstract = {"PICA" means perverted appetite for substances not fit as food or of no nutritional value such as, bricks, clay, soil, ice, laundry starch, etc. The word ''PICA'' is derived from Latin word for Magpie, a species of bird that feeds on whatever it encounters. ''PICA'' has been observed in ethnic groups worldwide in primitive and modern cultures, in both sexes and in all age groups. The case presented here reports a 30 year old female patient who had craving for ingestion of gravel and brick fragments since the age of 13 years. Iron deficiency anemia was found after complete blood count and iron studies. The diagnosis of "PICA" requires that the patient is persistently eating non-food substances for at least 1 month and such behavior is appropriate for the child's stage of development.}, }
@article {pmid23049210, year = {2012}, author = {Huerta-Franco, MR and Vargas-Luna, M and Montes-Frausto, JB and Morales-Mata, I and Ramirez-Padilla, L}, title = {Effect of psychological stress on gastric motility assessed by electrical bio-impedance.}, journal = {World journal of gastroenterology}, volume = {18}, number = {36}, pages = {5027-5033}, pmid = {23049210}, issn = {2219-2840}, mesh = {Adult ; Electric Impedance ; Female ; *Gastrointestinal Motility ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Stress, Psychological/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {AIM: To evaluate gastric motility using electrical bio-impedance (EBI) and gastric changes as a result of stress induced by psychological tests.<br><br>METHODS: A group of 57 healthy women, aged 40-60 years, was recruited, and a clinical history and physical examination were performed. The women were free from severe anxiety, chronic or acute stress, severe depression, mental diseases and conditions that affect gastric activity. The women were evaluated under fasting conditions, and using a four-electrode configuration, the gastric signals were obtained through a BIOPAC MP-150 system. The volunteers were evaluated using the following paradigm: basal state, recording during the Stroop Test, intermediate resting period, recording during the Raven Test, and a final resting period. We analyzed the relative areas of the frequency spectrum: A1 (1-2 cpm), A2 (2-4 cpm), A3 (4-8 cpm), and A4 (8-12 cpm), as well as the median of area A2 + A3. The data were analyzed by an autoregressive method using a Butterworth filter with MatLab and Origin. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Friedman ANOVA (for nonparametric variables) were performed; in addition, pairs of groups were compared using the T dependent and Wilcoxon T tests.<br><br>RESULTS: The results of the main values of area A2 were not significantly different comparing the five steps of the experimental paradigm. Nevertheless, there was a tendency of this A2 region to decrease during the stress tests, with recuperation at the final resting step. When an extended gastric region was considered (1-4 cpm), significant differences with the psychological stress tests were present (F = 3.85, P = 0.005). The A3 region also showed significant changes when the stress psychological tests were administered (F = 7.25, P < 0.001). These differences were influenced by the changes in the adjacent gastric region of A2. The parameter that we proposed in previous studies for the evaluation of gastric motility by electrical bio-impedance (EBI) was the median of the area under the region from 2 to 8 cpm (A2 + A3). The mean values of these frequencies (median of the A2 + A3 area) with the stress test showed significant changes (F = 5.5, P < 0.001). The results of the Wilcoxon T test for the A4 area parameter, which is influenced by the breathing response, changed significantly during the Raven stress test (P < 0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: We confirm that the gastric response to acute psychological stress can be evaluated by short-term EBI.}, }
@article {pmid23047668, year = {2012}, author = {Troscianko, J and von Bayern, AM and Chappell, J and Rutz, C and Martin, GR}, title = {Extreme binocular vision and a straight bill facilitate tool use in New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {3}, number = {}, pages = {1110}, pmid = {23047668}, issn = {2041-1723}, support = {BB/G023913/1//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Humans are expert tool users, who manipulate objects with dextrous hands and precise visual control. Surprisingly, morphological predispositions, or adaptations, for tool use have rarely been examined in non-human animals. New Caledonian crows Corvus moneduloides use their bills to craft complex tools from sticks, leaves and other materials, before inserting them into deadwood or vegetation to extract prey. Here we show that tool use in these birds is facilitated by an unusual visual-field topography and bill shape. Their visual field has substantially greater binocular overlap than that of any other bird species investigated to date, including six non-tool-using corvids. Furthermore, their unusually straight bill enables a stable grip on tools, and raises the tool tip into their visual field's binocular sector. These features enable a degree of tool control that would be impossible in other corvids, despite their comparable cognitive abilities. To our knowledge, this is the first evidence for tool-use-related morphological features outside the hominin lineage.}, }
@article {pmid23029321, year = {2012}, author = {Finlayson, C and Brown, K and Blasco, R and Rosell, J and Negro, JJ and Bortolotti, GR and Finlayson, G and Sánchez Marco, A and Giles Pacheco, F and Rodríguez Vidal, J and Carrión, JS and Fa, DA and Rodríguez Llanes, JM}, title = {Birds of a feather: Neanderthal exploitation of raptors and corvids.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {7}, number = {9}, pages = {e45927}, pmid = {23029321}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Cognition ; Feathers/anatomy &amp; histology ; *Fossils ; Neanderthals/*psychology ; Paleontology ; Passeriformes/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Raptors/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {The hypothesis that Neanderthals exploited birds for the use of their feathers or claws as personal ornaments in symbolic behaviour is revolutionary as it assigns unprecedented cognitive abilities to these hominins. This inference, however, is based on modest faunal samples and thus may not represent a regular or systematic behaviour. Here we address this issue by looking for evidence of such behaviour across a large temporal and geographical framework. Our analyses try to answer four main questions: 1) does a Neanderthal to raptor-corvid connection exist at a large scale, thus avoiding associations that might be regarded as local in space or time?; 2) did Middle (associated with Neanderthals) and Upper Palaeolithic (associated with modern humans) sites contain a greater range of these species than Late Pleistocene paleontological sites?; 3) is there a taphonomic association between Neanderthals and corvids-raptors at Middle Palaeolithic sites on Gibraltar, specifically Gorham's, Vanguard and Ibex Caves? and; 4) was the extraction of wing feathers a local phenomenon exclusive to the Neanderthals at these sites or was it a geographically wider phenomenon?. We compiled a database of 1699 Pleistocene Palearctic sites based on fossil bird sites. We also compiled a taphonomical database from the Middle Palaeolithic assemblages of Gibraltar. We establish a clear, previously unknown and widespread, association between Neanderthals, raptors and corvids. We show that the association involved the direct intervention of Neanderthals on the bones of these birds, which we interpret as evidence of extraction of large flight feathers. The large number of bones, the variety of species processed and the different temporal periods when the behaviour is observed, indicate that this was a systematic, geographically and temporally broad, activity that the Neanderthals undertook. Our results, providing clear evidence that Neanderthal cognitive capacities were comparable to those of Modern Humans, constitute a major advance in the study of human evolution.}, }
@article {pmid23025559, year = {2013}, author = {Fox, MC and Mitchum, AL}, title = {A knowledge-based theory of rising scores on "culture-free" tests.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. General}, volume = {142}, number = {3}, pages = {979-1000}, doi = {10.1037/a0030155}, pmid = {23025559}, issn = {1939-2222}, support = {3P01 AG17211/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Cognition ; *Culture ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Knowledge ; Male ; Thinking ; }, abstract = {Secular gains in intelligence test scores have perplexed researchers since they were documented by Flynn (1984, 1987). Gains are most pronounced on abstract, so-called culture-free tests, prompting Flynn (2007) to attribute them to problem-solving skills availed by scientifically advanced cultures. We propose that recent-born individuals have adopted an approach to analogy that enables them to infer higher level relations requiring roles that are not intrinsic to the objects that constitute initial representations of items. This proposal is translated into item-specific predictions about differences between cohorts in pass rates and item-response patterns on the Raven's Matrices (Flynn, 1987), a seemingly culture-free test that registers the largest Flynn effect. Consistent with predictions, archival data reveal that individuals born around 1940 are less able to map objects at higher levels of relational abstraction than individuals born around 1990. Polytomous Rasch models verify predicted violations of measurement invariance, as raw scores are found to underestimate the number of analogical rules inferred by members of the earlier cohort relative to members of the later cohort who achieve the same overall score. The work provides a plausible cognitive account of the Flynn effect, furthers understanding of the cognition of matrix reasoning, and underscores the need to consider how test-takers select item responses.}, }
@article {pmid23017749, year = {2012}, author = {Ackerman, AR and Khan, B}, title = {Assessing reporting patterns of child sexual abuse within the Catholic Church using discontinuities in model parameter timeseries.}, journal = {Social science research}, volume = {41}, number = {2}, pages = {253-262}, doi = {10.1016/j.ssresearch.2011.11.004}, pmid = {23017749}, issn = {1096-0317}, abstract = {Prior to 2002, little was known about sexual abuse within the Catholic Church. After the Boston Globe broke the story about John Geoghan - a priest in the Boston Archdiocese who was accused of abusing numerous children, convicted of one count of indecent assault, and eventually murdered in prison - the Church had many questions to answer. To this end, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) commissioned John Jay College of Criminal Justice to research the nature and scope, as well as the causes and context of child sexual abuse within the Catholic Church. This research analyzes the data from the John Jay studies using a new quantitative technique, capable of adjusting for distortions introduced by delays in abuse reporting. By isolating discontinuities in model parameter timeseries, we determine changes in reporting patterns occurred during the period 1982-1988. A posteriori to the analysis, we provide some possible explanations for the changes in abuse reporting associated with the change-point. While the scope of this paper is limited to presenting a new methodological approach within the frame of a particular case study, the techniques are more broadly applicable in settings where reporting lag is manifested.}, }
@article {pmid23016532, year = {2012}, author = {Ascher, B and Fanchon, C and Kanoun-Copy, L and Bouloc, A and Benech, F}, title = {A skincare containing retinol adenosine and hyaluronic acid optimises the benefits from a type A botulinum toxin injection.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology}, volume = {14}, number = {5}, pages = {234-238}, doi = {10.3109/14764172.2012.712700}, pmid = {23016532}, issn = {1476-4180}, mesh = {Adenosine/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Administration, Cutaneous ; Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Double-Blind Method ; Drug Therapy, Combination ; *Face ; Female ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; Middle Aged ; Vitamin A/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: A monocentre double-blind two parallel group clinical study was conducted to assess whether a new skincare regimen containing retinol, adenosine and hyaluronic acid, applied after the injection of botulinum toxin A to the glabellar area, provided a beneficial effect.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: Standardised photographs acquired using LifeViz cameras and zoomed pictures of the glabella and of the crow's feet areas were analysed with automatic well-defined procedures. Perceived efficacy and tolerance were also analysed by comparison between the two groups.<br><br>RESULTS: A beneficial effect versus placebo-treated group was proven in the group having topically applied the new skincare regimen for 2 months following botulinum toxin A injection with no touch up after 1 month. 3D image analysis showed more rapid results on D10 and enhanced efficacy on M2. Moreover, a beneficial effect independent of injection was measured in the crow's feet area, and analysis of the self-evaluation questionnaire showed enhanced efficacy perceived by the volunteers.<br><br>CONCLUSION: A specially developed skincare regimen applied immediately after botulinum toxin A injection completes the beneficial effect of the injection on the glabellar area and offers clinical benefits in fine lines, wrinkles and smoothness on the whole face.}, }
@article {pmid23009612, year = {2012}, author = {Graham, LA and Li, J and Davidson, WS and Davies, PL}, title = {Smelt was the likely beneficiary of an antifreeze gene laterally transferred between fishes.}, journal = {BMC evolutionary biology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {190}, pmid = {23009612}, issn = {1471-2148}, support = {106612//Canadian Institutes of Health Research/Canada ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antifreeze Proteins, Type II/*genetics ; Base Sequence ; Chromosomes, Artificial, Bacterial ; Evolution, Molecular ; Expressed Sequence Tags ; Fish Proteins/*genetics ; *Gene Transfer, Horizontal ; Lectins, C-Type/genetics ; Molecular Sequence Annotation ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Osmeriformes/*genetics ; Phylogeny ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Type II antifreeze protein (AFP) from the rainbow smelt, Osmerus mordax, is a calcium-dependent C-type lectin homolog, similar to the AFPs from herring and sea raven. While C-type lectins are ubiquitous, type II AFPs are only found in a few species in three widely separated branches of teleost fishes. Furthermore, several other non-homologous AFPs are found in intervening species. We have previously postulated that this sporadic distribution has resulted from lateral gene transfer. The alternative hypothesis, that the AFP evolved from a lectin present in a shared ancestor and that this gene was lost in most species, is not favored because both the exon and intron sequences are highly conserved.<br><br>RESULTS: Here we have sequenced and annotated a 160 kb smelt BAC clone containing a centrally-located AFP gene along with 14 other genes. Quantitative PCR indicates that there is but a single copy of this gene within the smelt genome, which is atypical for fish AFP genes. The corresponding syntenic region has been identified and searched in a number of other species and found to be devoid of lectin or AFP sequences. Unlike the introns of the AFP gene, the intronic sequences of the flanking genes are not conserved between species. As well, the rate and pattern of mutation in the AFP gene are radically different from those seen in other smelt and herring genes.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: These results provide stand-alone support for an example of lateral gene transfer between vertebrate species. They should further inform the debate about genetically modified organisms by showing that gene transfer between 'higher' eukaryotes can occur naturally. Analysis of the syntenic regions from several fishes strongly suggests that the smelt acquired the AFP gene from the herring.}, }
@article {pmid22998145, year = {2012}, author = {Shiba, M and Matsuo, K and Ban, R and Nagai, F}, title = {Evaluation of muscle hyperactivity of the grimacing muscles by unilateral tight eyelid closure and stapedius muscle tone.}, journal = {Journal of plastic surgery and hand surgery}, volume = {46}, number = {5}, pages = {318-325}, doi = {10.3109/2000656X.2012.696196}, pmid = {22998145}, issn = {2000-6764}, mesh = {Adult ; Eyelids/*physiology ; *Facial Expression ; Facial Muscles/innervation/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Hyperkinesis/*physiopathology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Motor Neurons/physiology ; Muscle Contraction/physiology ; Muscle Tonus/*physiology ; Oculomotor Muscles/innervation/*physiology ; Stapedius/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Muscle hyperactivity of grimacing muscles, including the orbicularis oculi and corrugator supercilii muscles that cause crow's feet and a glabellar frown line with ageing, cannot be accurately evaluated by surface observation. In 71 subjects, this study investigated the extent to which grimacing muscles are innervated by the bilateral motor cortices, whether the corticofacial projection to the grimacing muscles affects the facially innervated stapedius muscle tone by measuring static compliance of the tympanic membrane, and whether unilateral tight eyelid closure with contraction of the grimacing muscles changes static compliance. Unilateral tight eyelid closure and its subsequent change in the contralateral vertical medial eyebrow position revealed that motor neurons of the orbicularis oculi and corrugator supercilii muscles were innervated by the bilateral motor cortices with weak-to-strong contralateral dominance. The orbicularis oculi, corrugator supercilii, and stapedius muscles innervated by the bilateral motor cortices had increased muscle hyperactivity, which lowered the vertical medial eyebrow position and decreased the static compliance of the tympanic membrane more than those innervated by the unilateral motor cortex. Unilateral enhanced tight eyelid closure with contraction of the grimacing muscles in certain subjects ipsilaterally decreased the static compliance with increased contraction of the stapedius muscle, which probably occurs to immobilise the tympanic membrane and protect the inner ear from loud sound. Evaluation of unilateral tight eyelid closure and the subsequent change in the contralateral vertical medial eyebrow position as well as a measurement of the static compliance for the stapedius muscle tone has revealed muscle hyperactivity of grimacing muscles.}, }
@article {pmid22988773, year = {2012}, author = {El'chinova, GI and Shishko, AN and Zinchenko, RA}, title = {[Crow's index and reproductive characteristic of the Republic of Tatarstan population].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {48}, number = {7}, pages = {872-879}, pmid = {22988773}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Demography ; *Ethnicity ; Female ; Humans ; *Reproduction ; *Reproductive Behavior ; Rural Population/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Suburban Population/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {On the basis of 1212 questionnaires filled up by women of postreproductive age living in five districts of the Republic of Tatarstan (Arsky, Atninsky, Kukmorsky, Buinsky, and Drozhzhanovsky), the basic reproductive characteristics and Crow's index and its components have been calculated. The rural population is characterized by expanded reproduction with a mean sibship size of 2.68; in district administrative centers, there is only simple reproduction. Crow's index and its components for the rural Tatar population are Im = 0.026, If = 0.172, Itot = 0.202. Graphic analysis of the mutual positions of some populations studied has been carried out.}, }
@article {pmid22988112, year = {2012}, author = {Taylor, AH and Miller, R and Gray, RD}, title = {New Caledonian crows reason about hidden causal agents.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {109}, number = {40}, pages = {16389-16391}, pmid = {22988112}, issn = {1091-6490}, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; New Caledonia ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The ability to make inferences about hidden causal mechanisms underpins scientific and religious thought. It also facilitates the understanding of social interactions and the production of sophisticated tool-using behaviors. However, although animals can reason about the outcomes of accidental interventions, only humans have been shown to make inferences about hidden causal mechanisms. Here, we show that tool-making New Caledonian crows react differently to an observable event when it is caused by a hidden causal agent. Eight crows watched two series of events in which a stick moved. In the first set of events, the crows observed a human enter a hide, a stick move, and the human then leave the hide. In the second, the stick moved without a human entering or exiting the hide. The crows inspected the hide and abandoned probing with a tool for food more often after the second, unexplained series of events. This difference shows that the crows can reason about a hidden causal agent. Comparative studies with the methodology outlined here could aid in elucidating the selective pressures that led to the evolution of this cognitive ability.}, }
@article {pmid22984177, year = {2012}, author = {Marzluff, JM and Miyaoka, R and Minoshima, S and Cross, DJ}, title = {Brain imaging reveals neuronal circuitry underlying the crow's perception of human faces.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {109}, number = {39}, pages = {15912-15917}, pmid = {22984177}, issn = {1091-6490}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain/diagnostic imaging/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Emotions/physiology ; Escape Reaction/physiology ; Face ; Humans ; *Positron-Emission Tomography ; Radiography ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Crows pay close attention to people and can remember specific faces for several years after a single encounter. In mammals, including humans, faces are evaluated by an integrated neural system involving the sensory cortex, limbic system, and striatum. Here we test the hypothesis that birds use a similar system by providing an imaging analysis of an awake, wild animal's brain as it performs an adaptive, complex cognitive task. We show that in vivo imaging of crow brain activity during exposure to familiar human faces previously associated with either capture (threatening) or caretaking (caring) activated several brain regions that allow birds to discriminate, associate, and remember visual stimuli, including the rostral hyperpallium, nidopallium, mesopallium, and lateral striatum. Perception of threatening faces activated circuitry including amygdalar, thalamic, and brainstem regions, known in humans and other vertebrates to be related to emotion, motivation, and conditioned fear learning. In contrast, perception of caring faces activated motivation and striatal regions. In our experiments and in nature, when perceiving a threatening face, crows froze and fixed their gaze (decreased blink rate), which was associated with activation of brain regions known in birds to regulate perception, attention, fear, and escape behavior. These findings indicate that, similar to humans, crows use sophisticated visual sensory systems to recognize faces and modulate behavioral responses by integrating visual information with expectation and emotion. Our approach has wide applicability and potential to improve our understanding of the neural basis for animal behavior.}, }
@article {pmid22982159, year = {2012}, author = {Verdugo, C and Clark, AM and Prakoso, D and Kramer, LD and Long, MT}, title = {Multiplexed microsatellite loci in American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos): a severely affected natural host of West Nile virus.}, journal = {Infection, genetics and evolution : journal of molecular epidemiology and evolutionary genetics in infectious diseases}, volume = {12}, number = {8}, pages = {1968-1974}, doi = {10.1016/j.meegid.2012.08.020}, pmid = {22982159}, issn = {1567-7257}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/genetics/virology ; Crows/*genetics/*virology ; Genetic Markers/*genetics ; *Microsatellite Repeats ; Polymorphism, Genetic ; Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Species Specificity ; West Nile Fever/veterinary ; West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {Recent advances in high throughput molecular techniques have allowed the development of cost- and time-effective libraries of molecular markers, such as microsatellites, for population genetic studies in non-model species. The American crow, Corvus brachyrhynchos, is recognized to be one of the species that has been most negatively affected by the emergence of West Nile virus (WNV) in North America in 1999. Genetic monitoring of the process of a declining population after the introduction of an infectious disease can provide insights into the demographic and evolutionary impact of a pathogen in a natural host population over time. In this study, shotgun pyrosequencing and validation of previously published cross-species markers were the approaches used to identify and develop a set of 32 polymorphic loci for the C. brachyrhynchos. Since the American crow is morphologically similar to the sympatric species Fish crow (Corvus ossifragus), we also designed a real-time PCR protocol to rapidly differentiate these two species using a set of primers and probes that can discriminate a section of the COI gene at the mitochondrial DNA. These new markers together with a faster method for species verification will allow further detailed studies to characterize and compare genetic diversity of historic and contemporary C. brachyrhynchos populations.}, }
@article {pmid22978740, year = {2012}, author = {Doumouras, AG and Gomez, D and Haas, B and Boyes, DM and Nathens, AB}, title = {Comparing Methodologies for Evaluating Emergency Medical Services Ground Transport Access to Time-critical Emergency Services: A Case Study Using Trauma Center Care.}, journal = {Academic emergency medicine : official journal of the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine}, volume = {19}, number = {9}, pages = {E1099-108}, doi = {10.1111/j.1553-2712.2012.01440.x}, pmid = {22978740}, issn = {1553-2712}, support = {//Canadian Institutes of Health Research/Canada ; }, mesh = {Ambulances/*organization &amp; administration ; Critical Care/organization &amp; administration ; Emergency Medical Services/*organization &amp; administration ; Emergency Service, Hospital/organization &amp; administration ; Female ; Geography ; Hospitals, Urban ; Humans ; Male ; Ontario ; Risk Assessment ; Time Factors ; Transportation of Patients/organization &amp; administration ; Trauma Centers/*organization &amp; administration ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The regionalization of medical services has resulted in improved outcomes and greater compliance with existing guidelines. For certain "time-critical" conditions intimately associated with emergency medicine, early intervention has demonstrated mortality benefits. For these conditions, then, appropriate triage within a regionalized system at first diagnosis is paramount, ideally occurring in the field by emergency medical services (EMS) personnel. Therefore, EMS ground transport access is an important metric in the ongoing evaluation of a regionalized care system for time-critical emergency services. To our knowledge, no studies have demonstrated how methodologies for calculating EMS ground transport access differ in their estimates of access over the same study area for the same resource. This study uses two methodologies to calculate EMS ground transport access to trauma center care in a single study area to explore their manifestations and critically evaluate the differences between the methodologies.<br><br>METHODS: Two methodologies were compared in their estimations of EMS ground transport access to trauma center care: a routing methodology (RM) and an as-the-crow-flies methodology (ACFM). These methodologies were adaptations of the only two methodologies that had been previously used in the literature to calculate EMS ground transport access to time-critical emergency services across the United States. The RM and ACFM were applied to the nine Level I and Level II trauma centers within the province of Ontario by creating trauma center catchment areas at 30, 45, 60, and 120 minutes and calculating the population and area encompassed by the catchments. Because the methodologies were identical for measuring air access, this study looks specifically at EMS ground transport access.<br><br>RESULTS: Catchments for the province were created for each methodology at each time interval, and their populations and areas were significantly different at all time periods. Specifically, the RM calculated significantly larger populations at every time interval while the ACFM calculated larger catchment area sizes. This trend is counterintuitive (i.e., larger catchment should mean higher populations), and it was found to be most disparate at the shortest time intervals (under 60 minutes). Through critical evaluation of the differences, the authors elucidated that the ACFM could calculate road access in areas with no roads and overestimates access in low-density areas compared to the RM, potentially affecting delivery of care decisions.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Based on these results, the authors believe that future methodologies for calculating EMS ground transport access must incorporate a continuous and valid route through the road network as well as use travel speeds appropriate to the road segments traveled; alternatively, we feel that variation in methods for calculating road distances would have little effect on realized access. Overall, as more complex models for calculating EMS ground transport access become used, there needs to be a standard methodology to improve and to compare it to. Based on these findings, the authors believe that this should be the RM.}, }
@article {pmid22976685, year = {2012}, author = {Marão, HF and Panzarini, SR and Manrrique, GR and Luvizuto, ER and Evangelista Melo, M}, title = {Importance of clinical examination in dentoalveolar trauma.}, journal = {The Journal of craniofacial surgery}, volume = {23}, number = {5}, pages = {e404-5}, doi = {10.1097/SCS.0b013e31825bd2e5}, pmid = {22976685}, issn = {1536-3732}, mesh = {Accidental Falls ; Bicycling/injuries ; Child ; Diagnosis, Differential ; *Diagnosis, Oral ; Humans ; Lip/*injuries ; Male ; Radiography ; Suture Techniques ; Tooth Crown/diagnostic imaging/*injuries ; Tooth Fractures/*diagnosis/diagnostic imaging/*therapy ; }, abstract = {Dental injuries are often the result of direct trauma. The most affected teeth are the upper incisors, and the most frequent lesions are coronal fractures, contusions, and lip and alveolar mucosa lacerations. The objective of this study was to draw attention to the importance of the correct management of cases of crow fractures associated with soft tissue lacerations when the fragment is not located. This is a clinical case of crown fracture, the fragment of which remained lodged inside the lip. After fragment removal, the clinical case showed a satisfactory repair emphasizing the importance of a meticulous clinical examination to achieve a correct diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan, which is essential for a favorable prognosis.}, }
@article {pmid22973700, year = {2012}, author = {Kurokawa, K and Sonoo, M}, title = {[Internal medicine and neurological diseases: progress in diagnosis and treatment. Topics: XIII. Infection immunity and neurological disorders (Guillain-Barré syndrome, Fisher syndrome, Crow-Fukase syndrome, influenza-associated encephalopathy, AIDS encephalopathy)].}, journal = {Nihon Naika Gakkai zasshi. The Journal of the Japanese Society of Internal Medicine}, volume = {101}, number = {8}, pages = {2265-2269}, doi = {10.2169/naika.101.2265}, pmid = {22973700}, issn = {0021-5384}, mesh = {*AIDS Dementia Complex ; Adult ; Brain Diseases/*etiology ; Child, Preschool ; *Guillain-Barre Syndrome ; Humans ; Infant ; Influenza, Human/*complications ; *Miller Fisher Syndrome ; *POEMS Syndrome ; }, }
@article {pmid22973188, year = {2012}, author = {Bourgeois-Gironde, S}, title = {Optimal short-sighted rules.}, journal = {Frontiers in neuroscience}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {129}, pmid = {22973188}, issn = {1662-453X}, abstract = {The aim of this paper is to assess the relevance of methodological transfers from behavioral ecology to experimental economics with respect to the elicitation of intertemporal preferences. More precisely our discussion will stem from the analysis of Stephens and Anderson's (2001) seminal article. In their study with blue jays they document that foraging behavior typically implements short-sighted choice rules which are beneficial in the long run. Such long-term profitability of short-sighted behavior cannot be evidenced when using a self-control paradigm (one which contrasts in a binary way sooner smaller and later larger payoffs) but becomes apparent when ecological patch-paradigms (replicating economic situations in which the main trade-off consists in staying on a food patch or leaving for another patch) are implemented. We transfer this methodology in view of contrasting foraging strategies and self-control in human intertemporal choices.}, }
@article {pmid22962852, year = {2013}, author = {Moriya, S and Tei, K and Miura, H and Inoue, N and Yokoyama, T}, title = {Associations between higher-level competence and general intelligence in community-dwelling older adults.}, journal = {Aging &amp; mental health}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {242-249}, doi = {10.1080/13607863.2012.717256}, pmid = {22962852}, issn = {1364-6915}, mesh = {Activities of Daily Living/psychology ; *Adaptation, Psychological ; Aged ; Aging/*psychology ; Female ; Health Status Disparities ; Humans ; *Independent Living/psychology/statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Intelligence ; Interpersonal Relations ; Interview, Psychological ; Male ; *Mental Competency ; Regression Analysis ; Self Efficacy ; Sense of Coherence ; *Social Adjustment ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Tokyo ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Higher-level competence is crucial for healthy and socially independent living, and general intelligence may underlie heath status. The aim of this study was to elucidate associations between general intelligence and higher-level competence in elderly individuals without dementia.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 207 community-dwelling elderly persons, aged 70-74 years, were enrolled. A personal interview was performed to obtain data on socio-demographic and medical factors; higher-level competence was evaluated using the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology index of competence (TMIG index). Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test was used to assess general intelligence. Correlations between the TMIG index, its subscale scores and the RCPM score were evaluated by Spearman's rank correlation coefficients. Ordinal regression models were conducted with the TMIG index and its subscales as the dependent variables, RCPM as the principal independent variable, and age, sex, type of household, employment status, educational background, chronic medical conditions and number of natural teeth as the potential independent variables.<br><br>RESULTS: There were significant but weak positive correlations between total score on the TMIG index, scores on the intellectual activity and social role subscales and RCPM score. In ordinal regression models, RCPM and educational background were significantly associated with total score on the TMIG index and the intellectual activity subscale, and only RCPM was associated with the social role subscale score, after adjusting for other potential variables.<br><br>CONCLUSION: General intelligence may be significantly associated with higher-level competence, especially with intellectual activity and social role subscales, in community-dwelling older adults.}, }
@article {pmid22945854, year = {2012}, author = {Orłowski, G and Kamiński, P and Kasprzykowski, Z and Zawada, Z and Koim-Puchowska, B and Szady-Grad, M and Klawe, JJ}, title = {Essential and nonessential elements in nestling rooks Corvus frugilegus from eastern Poland with a special emphasis on their high cadmium contamination.}, journal = {Archives of environmental contamination and toxicology}, volume = {63}, number = {4}, pages = {601-611}, doi = {10.1007/s00244-012-9794-z}, pmid = {22945854}, issn = {1432-0703}, mesh = {Animals ; Bone and Bones/chemistry ; Cadmium/*pharmacokinetics ; Crows/growth &amp; development/*metabolism ; Environmental Monitoring/*methods ; Environmental Pollution/*adverse effects/*analysis ; Kidney/chemistry ; Liver/chemistry ; Lung/chemistry ; Metals, Heavy/pharmacokinetics ; Multivariate Analysis ; Muscles/chemistry ; Poland ; Tissue Distribution ; }, abstract = {Concentration of minerals (sodium, potassium, calcium [Ca], magnesium, iron [Fe], copper, zinc [Zn], manganese [Mn], and cobalt) as well as toxic metals (cadmium [Cd], lead [Pb]) were determined in five tissues (liver, lung, kidney, muscle, and bone) of nestling rooks (Corvus frugilegus; 1 to 13 days old) found dead in seven breeding colonies in eastern Poland. Cd concentration in all analyzed tissues was in the narrow range of 17.0-17.2 mg/kg dry weight (dw) Cd, which in the light of the literature data indicates acute contamination by this toxic metal. Similarly, we found increased levels of Pb, which in all tissues ranged between 5.0 and 6.2 mg/kg dw. Results of multivariate general linear model (GLM) testing of the effect of three variables (tissue type, colony, and nestling age) on tissue concentrations of various metals showed significance for Fe, Cu, Zn, and Mn. Only concentrations of Ca, Fe, and Zn differed significantly between the analyzed tissues. GLM analysis did not show any statistically significant differences in tissue levels of minerals and both toxic metals among examined rookeries, which indicates the widespread presence of nonpoint Cd and Pb pollution linked to agricultural activity and similar levels of these inorganic contaminants on crop fields (feeding grounds) around breeding colonies. We concluded that high levels of both toxic metals, Cd and Pb, probably resulting from the diet of nestling rooks, are based mainly on a diet of ground-dwelling beetles gathered on crop fields.}, }
@article {pmid22938003, year = {2012}, author = {Baek, JH and Yoo, MA and Koh, JS and Borkow, G}, title = {Reduction of facial wrinkles depth by sleeping on copper oxide-containing pillowcases: a double blind, placebo controlled, parallel, randomized clinical study.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {193-200}, doi = {10.1111/j.1473-2165.2012.00624.x}, pmid = {22938003}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Administration, Cutaneous ; Adult ; Bedding and Linens ; Copper/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Double-Blind Method ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Skin Aging/*drug effects/pathology ; Surface Properties ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Copper up-regulates the secretion of extracellular skin proteins and stabilizes the extracellular matrix once formed. As copper can be absorbed through intact skin, we reasoned that sleeping on pillowcases containing copper-impregnated fibers would reduce skin wrinkles.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: Demonstrate that sleeping on pillowcases containing copper-impregnated fibers reduce facial skin wrinkles.<br><br>PATIENTS/METHODS: An 8-week, double blind, parallel, randomized study was carried out, in which healthy volunteers, aged 30-60, used either copper oxide-containing pillowcases (1% weight/weight) (test group, n = 30) or control pillowcases without copper (control group, n = 31). Skin conditions of the subjects were evaluated by visual grading by two expert graders and by 3D Image Analysis GFM PRIMOS(&#xae;) at baseline (before treatment) and following 4 and 8 weeks of sleeping on the pillowcases.<br><br>RESULTS: The use of the copper oxide-containing pillowcase resulted in significant decrease of crow's feet after 4 (P = 0.01) and 8 (P = 0.002) weeks, but none was observed in the control group, as determined by the expert graders. On the basis of the 3D measurements, three roughness (R) parameters were improved after 4 and 8 weeks (P < 0.02) and the Rmax parameter at 8 weeks (P = 0.016) in the test group, but there were no changes in the R-parameters during the course of the study in the control group. The average reduction per month in the R-parameters was approximately 9%. No adverse reactions were observed or reported during the 8 weeks study.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Sleeping on copper oxide-containing pillowcases results in reduction of wrinkles depth and overall improvement of skin appearance.}, }
@article {pmid22936131, year = {2012}, author = {Ikeda, FH and Horta, PA and Bruscato, WL and Dolci, JE}, title = {Intellectual and school performance evaluation of children submitted to tonsillectomy and adenotonsillectomy before and after surgery.}, journal = {Brazilian journal of otorhinolaryngology}, volume = {78}, number = {4}, pages = {17-23}, pmid = {22936131}, issn = {1808-8686}, mesh = {*Adenoidectomy ; Child ; Cohort Studies ; *Education of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities ; Female ; Humans ; Learning Disabilities/*etiology ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Polysomnography ; Postoperative Period ; Preoperative Period ; Sleep Apnea, Obstructive/complications/*surgery ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; *Tonsillectomy ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Several studies have demonstrated the impact of obstructive sleep disorders on the quality of life of children. However, few studies address school and intellectual performances of children who have undergone tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy, indicating the benefits of these surgeries.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and compare the learning and intellectual performances of children submitted to tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy, before and after surgery.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: 83 children between the ages of 7 and 11 were evaluated by a psychologist employing a longitudinal and descriptive study in the pre and post-surgery groups. The first evaluation was performed just before surgery, and the second and third evaluations one and six months after the surgical procedure. The social-demographic form, Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices Test and the School Performance Test were used.<br><br>RESULTS: The group of children in this study presented a statistically significant evolution in their intellectual performance evaluations (p < 0.05) and also school performance evaluations in writing, mathematics and reading sub-tests (p < 0.001).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Based on our findings we concluded that tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy performed in children with obstructive respiratory disorders produce a positive impact on intellectual and school learning development.}, }
@article {pmid22933666, year = {2012}, author = {Zielonka, A and Gedvilaite, A and Reetz, J and Rösler, U and Müller, H and Johne, R}, title = {Serological cross-reactions between four polyomaviruses of birds using virus-like particles expressed in yeast.}, journal = {The Journal of general virology}, volume = {93}, number = {Pt 12}, pages = {2658-2667}, doi = {10.1099/vir.0.044917-0}, pmid = {22933666}, issn = {1465-2099}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Neutralizing ; Antibodies, Viral ; Antibody Specificity ; Antigens, Viral/genetics ; Bird Diseases/immunology/virology ; Birds/immunology/*virology ; Cross Reactions ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay ; Genome, Viral ; Hemagglutination Inhibition Tests ; Humans ; Immunoblotting ; Polyomavirus/classification/genetics/*immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; Rabbits ; Recombinant Proteins/genetics/immunology ; Saccharomyces cerevisiae/genetics ; Vaccines, Virus-Like Particle/genetics/immunology ; Viral Structural Proteins/genetics/immunology ; }, abstract = {Polyomaviruses are aetiological agents of fatal acute diseases in various bird species. Genomic analysis revealed that avian polyomavirus (APyV), crow polyomavirus (CPyV), finch polyomavirus (FPyV) and goose hemorrhagic polyomavirus (GHPyV) are closely related to each other, but nevertheless form separate viral species; however, their serological relationship was previously unknown. As only APyV can be grown efficiently in tissue culture, virus-like particles (VLPs) were generated by expression of the genomic regions encoding the major structural protein VP1 of these viruses in yeast; these were used to elicit type-specific antibodies in rabbits and as antigens in serological reactions. For increased VLP assembly, a nuclear-localization signal was introduced into APyV-VP1. VLPs derived from the VP1 of the monkey polyomavirus simian virus 40 served as control. APyV-, GHPyV- and CPyV-VLPs showed haemagglutinating activity with chicken and human erythrocytes. CPyV- and GHPyV-specific sera showed slight cross-reactions in immunoblotting, haemagglutination-inhibition assay and indirect ELISA. The FPyV-specific serum inhibited the haemagglutination activity of APyV-VLPs slightly and showed a weak cross-neutralizing activity against APyV in cell-culture tests. Generally, these data indicate that the four polyomaviruses of birds are serologically distinct. However, in accordance with genetic data, a relationship between CPyV and GHPyV as well as between APyV and FPyV is evident, and grouping into two different serogroups may be suggested. The haemagglutinating activity of APyV, CPyV and GHPyV may indicate similar receptor-binding mechanisms for these viruses. Our data could be useful for the development of vaccines against the polyomavirus-induced diseases in birds and for interpretation of diagnostic test results.}, }
@article {pmid22930649, year = {2012}, author = {Zonstein, S and Marusik, YM}, title = {A review of the genus Raveniola (Araneae, Nemesiidae) in China, with notes on allied genera and description of four new species from Yunnan.}, journal = {ZooKeys}, volume = {}, number = {211}, pages = {71-99}, pmid = {22930649}, issn = {1313-2970}, abstract = {The Chinese representatives of Raveniola Zonstein, 1987 are currently recognized to comprise seven species. Four new species - Raveniola montanasp. n. (♂♀), Raveniola shangrilasp. n. (♂), Raveniola songisp. n. (♂) and Raveniola yunnanensissp. n. (♂) - are described from the highlands of Yunnan Province, China. According to some characters (shape of the palpus, palpal tibia and tibia I in males) they can be placed together with Raveniola hebeinica Zhu, Zhang &amp; Zhang, 1999 and with Raveniola guangxi (Raven &amp; Schwendinger, 1995), comb. n., transferred here from Sinopesa Raven &amp; Schwendinger, 1995. The current generic position of Raveniola xizangensis (Hu &amp; Li, 1987) is confirmed. Other Chinese nemesiids referred previously to Raveniola are transferred to Sinopesa: Sinopesa chinensis (Kulczyński, 1901), comb. n., Sinopesa sinensis (Zhu &amp; Mao, 1983), comb. n. and Sinopesa chengbuensis (Xu &amp; Yun, 2002), comb. n. The relationships between these Asian genera and their relations to Afrotropical nemesiids are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid22930049, year = {2012}, author = {Lobato, L and Miranda, A and Faria, IM and Bethony, JM and Gazzinelli, MF}, title = {Development of cognitive abilities of children infected with helminths through health education.}, journal = {Revista da Sociedade Brasileira de Medicina Tropical}, volume = {45}, number = {4}, pages = {514-519}, doi = {10.1590/s0037-86822012000400020}, pmid = {22930049}, issn = {1678-9849}, mesh = {Brazil ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Child Development/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/*parasitology ; Feces/parasitology ; Female ; *Health Education ; Helminthiasis/*complications/drug therapy ; Humans ; Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/*complications/drug therapy ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of health education in learning and cognitive development of children infected, previously treated in an endemic area for helminthiasis.<br><br>METHODS: It is a longitudinal, experimental, with random allocation of participants. The study included 87 children of both sexes enrolled in the school hall of Maranh&#xe3;o, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, and divided into two groups: intervention and control. Initially the children were submitted to the parasitological fecal examination for infection diagnosis and, when positive, they were treated. For the data collection, a structured questionnaire and the psychological tests Raven, Wisc-III and DAP III were applied, before and after the educational intervention. For the group comparison, the Mann Whitney test was used, and established significance level of 5%.<br><br>RESULTS: It was found that previously infected children who received the educational intervention, children showed higher performance than the control group in strutured questionnaire (p<0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: It is acceptable to suppose the positive influence and the importance in the use of educational interventions in the cognitive recovery and learning of children previously treated with anthelmintics.}, }
@article {pmid22928351, year = {2012}, author = {Sikdar, M}, title = {Socioeconomic covariates and their impact on the opportunity for natural selection in a riparian tribe of Northeast India.}, journal = {Anthropologischer Anzeiger; Bericht uber die biologisch-anthropologische Literatur}, volume = {69}, number = {3}, pages = {273-287}, doi = {10.1127/0003-5548/2012/0195}, pmid = {22928351}, issn = {0003-5548}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Algorithms ; Analysis of Variance ; Anthropology ; Child ; Child Mortality ; *Environment ; Female ; Humans ; India/epidemiology/ethnology ; Infant ; Infant Mortality ; Middle Aged ; Models, Theoretical ; Population Groups/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Reproduction ; *Selection, Genetic ; *Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {The intensity of natural selection correlates with various bio-social variables which influence the genetic structure of a population. In this paper it has been sought to find out the influence of variable environmental setting and economic condition on selection intensity among the Mising tribal population of Assam, Northeast India. Detailed reproductive pattern of 309 post menopausal women is obtained and a comparison has been made between different environmental as well as economic backgrounds. The impact of secular change on selection intensity has been assessed. For this study I have proposed a modified formula of Johnston &amp; Kensinger's (1971) index for selection intensity. Crow's index of selection intensity has also been used for comparative analyses. After considering standard statistical procedure, a clear disparity of selection intensity has been noticed in terms of varying socioeconomic condition as well as habitational background. It can be concluded from the study that environmental factors act more in terms of selection pressure on infants rather than the other post natal stages.}, }
@article {pmid22920844, year = {2013}, author = {Salant, H and Hamburger, J and King, R and Baneth, G}, title = {Toxoplasma gondii prevalence in Israeli crows and Griffon vultures.}, journal = {Veterinary parasitology}, volume = {191}, number = {1-2}, pages = {23-28}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetpar.2012.07.029}, pmid = {22920844}, issn = {1873-2550}, mesh = {Agglutination Tests ; Animals ; Antibodies, Protozoan/blood ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/parasitology ; Brain/parasitology ; Crows/*parasitology ; Falconiformes/*parasitology ; Genotype ; Israel/epidemiology ; Polymorphism, Restriction Fragment Length ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; Toxoplasma/genetics ; Toxoplasmosis, Animal/*epidemiology ; }, abstract = {A cross-sectional Toxoplasma gondii seroprevalence study was performed on free ranging crows (Corvus cornis, Corvus monedula, Corvus splendens) and Griffon vultures (Gyps fulvus) from Israel in order to assess exposure to this pathogen in scavenger birds that feed on animal carcasses and their possible role in the epidemiology of toxoplasmosis. Using the modified agglutination test (MAT) with a cutoff titer of 1:25, 52 of 122 crows (42.6%) and 40 of 101 Griffon vultures (39.6%) were found to be T. gondii seropositive. Crow T. gondii seroprevalence was significantly higher in northern areas of Israel (p=0.007) where annual precipitation is higher and annual summer maximum temperatures are lower than in the drier and warmer south. Seroprevalence in crows was positively associated with higher human population densities possibly related to the increased cat population in these areas. PCR analysis of brain extracts from crows resulted in the detection of T. gondii DNA in 1 seropositive crow from northern Israel. Genetic analysis of DNA from the positive crow brain confirmed infection with T. gondii type 2 using a multiplex multilocus nested PCR-RFLP (Mn-PCR-RFLP) of the SAG1, 5-3' SAG2, alt.SAG2, SAG3, BTUB, GRA6, C22-8, c29-2, L358, PK1 and Apico loci. The high T. gondii seroprevalence in these bird species suggests that infected carrion may be responsible for widespread infection of carcass scavenger birds which may further transmit infection to other carnivorous intermediate hosts or feline definitive hosts when consumed post-mortally.}, }
@article {pmid22919554, year = {2012}, author = {Rios, LT and Araujo Júnior, E and Caetano, AC and Nardozza, LM and Moron, AF and Martins, MG}, title = {Prenatal Diagnosis of EEC Syndrome with "Lobster Claw" Anomaly by 3D Ultrasound.}, journal = {Journal of clinical imaging science}, volume = {2}, number = {}, pages = {40}, pmid = {22919554}, issn = {2156-5597}, abstract = {THE EEC SYNDROME IS A GENETIC ANOMALY CHARACTERIZED BY THE TRIAD: ectodermal dysplasia (development of anomalies of the structures derived from the embryonic ectodermal layer), ectrodactyly (extremities, hands and feet malformations) and cleft lip and/or palate; these malformations can be seen together or in isolation. The prenatal diagnosis can be made by two-dimensional ultrasonography (2DUS) that identifies the facial and/or limb anomalies, most characteristic being the "lobster-claw" hands. The three-dimensional ultrasonography (3DUS) provides a better analysis of the malformations than the 2DUS. A 25-year-old primigravida, had her first transvaginal ultrasonography that showed an unique fetus with crow-rump length of 47 mm with poorly defined hands and feet,. She was suspected of having sporadic form of EEC syndrome. The 2DUS performed at 19 weeks confirmed the EEC syndrome, showing a fetus with lobster-claw hands (absence of the 2(nd) and 3(rd) fingers), left foot with the absence of the 3rd toe and the right foot with syndactyly, and presence of cleft lip/palate. The 3DUS defined the anomalies much better than 2DUS including the lobster-claw hands.}, }
@article {pmid22912831, year = {2012}, author = {Yamada, T and Ohta, H and Watanabe, H and Kanai, C and Tani, M and Ohno, T and Takayama, Y and Iwanami, A and Kato, N and Hashimoto, R}, title = {Functional alterations in neural substrates of geometric reasoning in adults with high-functioning autism.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {7}, number = {8}, pages = {e43220}, pmid = {22912831}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adult ; Autistic Disorder/*physiopathology ; Brain/*physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Case-Control Studies ; Cognition/*physiology ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Individuals with autism spectrum condition (ASC) are known to excel in some perceptual cognitive tasks, but such developed functions have been often regarded as "islets of abilities" that do not significantly contribute to broader intellectual capacities. However, recent behavioral studies have reported that individuals with ASC have advantages for performing Raven's (Standard) Progressive Matrices (RPM/RSPM), a standard neuropsychological test for general fluid intelligence, raising the possibility that ASC's cognitive strength can be utilized for more general purposes like novel problem solving. Here, the brain activity of 25 adults with high-functioning ASC and 26 matched normal controls (NC) was measured using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to examine neural substrates of geometric reasoning during the engagement of a modified version of the RSPM test. Among the frontal and parietal brain regions involved in fluid intelligence, ASC showed larger activation in the left lateral occipitotemporal cortex (LOTC) during an analytic condition with moderate difficulty than NC. Activation in the left LOTC and ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (VLPFC) increased with task difficulty in NC, whereas such modulation of activity was absent in ASC. Furthermore, functional connectivity analysis revealed a significant reduction of activation coupling between the left inferior parietal cortex and the right anterior prefrontal cortex during both figural and analytic conditions in ASC. These results indicate altered pattern of functional specialization and integration in the neural system for geometric reasoning in ASC, which may explain its atypical cognitive pattern, including performance on the Raven's Matrices test.}, }
@article {pmid22912609, year = {2012}, author = {van Muijden, J and Band, GP and Hommel, B}, title = {Online games training aging brains: limited transfer to cognitive control functions.}, journal = {Frontiers in human neuroscience}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {221}, pmid = {22912609}, issn = {1662-5161}, abstract = {The prevalence of age-related cognitive decline will increase due to graying of the global population. The goal of the present study was to test whether playing online cognitive training games can improve cognitive control (CC) in healthy older adults. Fifty-four older adults (age 60-77) played five different cognitive training games online for 30 min a day over a period of seven weeks (game group). Another group of 20 older adults (age 61-73) instead answered quiz questions about documentaries online (documentary group). Transfer was assessed by means of a cognitive test battery administered before and after the intervention. The test battery included measures of working memory updating, set shifting, response inhibition, attention, and inductive reasoning. Compared with the documentary group, the game group showed larger improvement of inhibition (Stop-Signal task) and inductive reasoning (Raven-SPM), whereas the documentary group showed more improvement in selective attention (UFoV-3). These effects qualify as transfer effects, because response inhibition, inductive reasoning and selective attention were not targeted by the interventions. However, because seven other indicators of CC did not show benefits of game training and some of those that did suffered from potential baseline differences, the study as a whole provides only modest support for the potential of videogame training to improve CC in healthy older adults.}, }
@article {pmid22909991, year = {2013}, author = {Ziegler, U and Angenvoort, J and Fischer, D and Fast, C and Eiden, M and Rodriguez, AV and Revilla-Fernández, S and Nowotny, N and de la Fuente, JG and Lierz, M and Groschup, MH}, title = {Pathogenesis of West Nile virus lineage 1 and 2 in experimentally infected large falcons.}, journal = {Veterinary microbiology}, volume = {161}, number = {3-4}, pages = {263-273}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2012.07.041}, pmid = {22909991}, issn = {1873-2542}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/pathology/*virology ; *Falconiformes ; Viremia/pathology/veterinary/virology ; Virus Shedding ; West Nile Fever/pathology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*genetics/immunology/pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) is a zoonotic flavivirus that is transmitted by blood-suckling mosquitoes with birds serving as the primary vertebrate reservoir hosts (enzootic cycle). Some bird species like ravens, raptors and jays are highly susceptible and develop deadly encephalitis while others are infected subclinically only. Birds of prey are highly susceptible and show substantial mortality rates following infection. To investigate the WNV pathogenesis in falcons we inoculated twelve large falcons, 6 birds per group, subcutaneously with viruses belonging to two different lineages (lineage 1 strain NY 99 and lineage 2 strain Austria). Three different infection doses were utilized: low (approx. 500 TCID50), intermediate (approx. 4 log10 TCID50) and high (approx. 6 log10 TCID50). Clinical signs were monitored during the course of the experiments lasting 14 and 21 days. All falcons developed viremia for two weeks and shed virus for almost the same period of time. Using quantitative real-time RT-PCR WNV was detected in blood, in cloacal and oropharyngeal swabs and following euthanasia and necropsy of the animals in a variety of neuronal and extraneuronal organs. Antibodies to WNV were first time detected by ELISA and neutralization assay after 6 days post infection (dpi). Pathological findings consistently included splenomegaly, non-suppurative myocarditis, meningoencephalitis and vasculitis. By immunohistochemistry WNV-antigens were demonstrated intralesionally. These results impressively illustrate the devastating and possibly deadly effects of WNV infection in falcons, independent of the genetic lineage and dose of the challenge virus used. Due to the relatively high virus load and long duration of viremia falcons may also be considered competent WNV amplifying hosts, and thus may play a role in the transmission cycle of this zoonotic virus.}, }
@article {pmid22906550, year = {2012}, author = {Venkataramani, AS}, title = {Early life exposure to malaria and cognition in adulthood: evidence from Mexico.}, journal = {Journal of health economics}, volume = {31}, number = {5}, pages = {767-780}, doi = {10.1016/j.jhealeco.2012.06.003}, pmid = {22906550}, issn = {1879-1646}, mesh = {Adult ; Child ; *Cognition ; Cohort Studies ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Income/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Infant ; Malaria/*epidemiology/prevention &amp; control ; Male ; Mexico/epidemiology ; Sex Distribution ; }, abstract = {This study examines the impact of early life malaria exposure on cognition in sample of Mexican adults, using the nationwide introduction of malaria eradication efforts to identify causal impacts. The core findings are that birth year exposure to malaria eradication was associated with increases in Raven Progressive Matrices test scores and consumption expenditures, but not schooling. Additionally, cohorts born after eradication both entered and exited school earlier than their pre-eradication counterparts. These effects were only seen for men and explanations for this are assessed. Collectively, these findings suggest that improvements in infant health help explain secular increases in cognitive test scores, that better cognition may link early life health to adulthood earnings, and that human capital investments through childhood and young adulthood respond sensitively to market returns to early life endowment shocks.}, }
@article {pmid22903920, year = {2012}, author = {Balfour, A and Lanman, M}, title = {An evaluation of time-limited psychodynamic psychotherapy for couples: a pilot study.}, journal = {Psychology and psychotherapy}, volume = {85}, number = {3}, pages = {292-309}, doi = {10.1111/j.2044-8341.2011.02030.x}, pmid = {22903920}, issn = {2044-8341}, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Child ; Depression/psychology/therapy ; Female ; Humans ; *Interpersonal Relations ; Male ; Marital Therapy/*methods ; Middle Aged ; Outcome Assessment, Health Care/methods/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Patient Satisfaction ; Personal Satisfaction ; Pilot Projects ; Psychotherapy, Brief/*methods ; Reproducibility of Results ; Self Report ; Sex Factors ; Spouses/*psychology ; Stress, Psychological/psychology/therapy ; Time Factors ; *Videotape Recording ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Psychodynamic Couple Psychotherapy has developed as a modality in only a few organizations in the public and voluntary sectors in this country. Varieties of couple therapy have evolved due to economic or other constraints, some more open-ended, others involving differing time limits or behavioural techniques. In this study, a time limit of 40 sessions was imposed on the Psychodynamic therapy to improve comparability with other therapeutic approaches. We examined work with 18 couples, employing various measures which, while not in the context of a full controlled trial, produced some interesting and indicative results. We aimed to investigate (1) the effects of time-limited psychodynamic couple psychotherapy, and (2) whether the measures used produce interesting results after 40 weeks.<br><br>DESIGN: Within a normal clinical setting, measurements of individual and couple functioning would be taken at fixed points in the course of 40-week couple therapies, and analysed for evidence of significant change. Due to funding and clinical limitations within the setting, a baseline period before therapy started was used instead of a control group.<br><br>METHOD: Couples were invited to opt in to the study when applying to the agency for therapy. They were provided with 40 weekly sessions of couple therapy. Videotapes of sessions at beginning, middle, and end of the therapies were rated by independent observer, using the Personal Relatedness Profile (PRP) (Hobson, Patrick, &amp; Valentine, 1998) adapted for couples (Lanman, Grier, &amp; Evans, 2003), alongside two individual self-report measures, Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation (CORE) (Evans et al., 2000), and the Golombok Rust Inventory of Marital Satisfaction (GRIMS) (Rust, Bennun, Crow, &amp; Golumbok, 1990).<br><br>RESULTS: The couples showed improvement as rated both by therapists and observers (rating the videotaped sessions) on the PRP after 40 sessions. On the CORE measure, participants showed improvement at both 20 and 40 sessions. On the GRIMS measure of marital satisfaction, results were non-significant.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The results provide indicative evidence for the effectiveness of 40-session couple psychotherapy and provide some convergent validation for the utility of the PRP (as adapted for couples) as a measure of change.}, }
@article {pmid22902378, year = {2012}, author = {Heiss, RS and Schoech, SJ}, title = {Oxidative cost of reproduction is sex specific and correlated with reproductive effort in a cooperatively breeding bird, the Florida scrub jay.}, journal = {Physiological and biochemical zoology : PBZ}, volume = {85}, number = {5}, pages = {499-503}, doi = {10.1086/666840}, pmid = {22902378}, issn = {1537-5293}, mesh = {Animals ; Blood Proteins/*metabolism ; Female ; Florida ; Male ; *Protein Carbonylation ; *Reproduction ; Songbirds/*physiology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Reproduction is energetically demanding, and how much an individual is able to invest in reproduction is often a function of its health state. An understanding of the relationship between oxidative balance and reproductive decisions, especially in free-living species, is still very limited. We evaluated the relationship between oxidative health and reproductive effort in a free-living population of the cooperatively breeding Florida scrub jay Aphelocoma coerulescens. Specifically, we assessed whether prebreeding oxidative damage levels predicted reproductive effort and subsequently whether postbreeding oxidative damage levels reflected reproductive effort. Prebreeding oxidative damage levels were negatively correlated with reproductive effort in males. In males, postbreeding levels of oxidative damage were significantly greater than prebreeding levels. Given that females exhibited no such patterns, our results suggest that in this species, males bear the brunt of the oxidative costs associated with reproduction.}, }
@article {pmid22899525, year = {2012}, author = {Stoessel, A and Fischer, MS}, title = {Comparative intralimb coordination in avian bipedal locomotion.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {215}, number = {Pt 23}, pages = {4055-4069}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.070458}, pmid = {22899525}, issn = {1477-9145}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Coturnix/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Crows/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Environment ; Hindlimb/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; *Locomotion ; Palaeognathae/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Videodisc Recording/*methods ; X-Rays ; }, abstract = {Analyses of how intralimb coordination during locomotion varies within and across different taxa are necessary for understanding the morphological and neurological basis for locomotion in general. Previous findings suggest that intralimb proportions are the major source of kinematic variation that governs intralimb coordination across taxa. Also, independence of kinematics from habitat preference and phylogenetic position has been suggested for mammals. This leads to the hypothesis that among equally sized bird species exhibiting equal limb proportions, similar kinematics can be observed. To test this hypothesis, the bipedal locomotion of two distantly related ground-dwelling bird species (Eudromia elegans and Coturnix coturnix) and of a less terrestrial species (Corvus monedula) was investigated by means of a biplanar high-speed X-ray videographic analysis. Birds exhibited similar intralimb proportions and were filmed over a broad range of speed while moving on a treadmill. Joint and limb element angles, as well as pelvic rotations, were quantified. Regarding fore-aft motions of the limb joints and elements, a congruent pattern of intralimb coordination was observed among all experimental species. The sample of species suggests that this is largely independent of their habitat preference and systematic position and seems to be related to demands for coping with an irregular terrain with a minimum of necessary control. Hence, the initial hypothesis was confirmed. However, this congruence is not found when looking at medio-lateral limb motions and pelvic rotations, showing distinct differences between ground-dwellers (e.g. largely restricted to a parasagittal plane) and C. monedula (e.g. increased mobility of the hip joint).}, }
@article {pmid22897051, year = {2012}, author = {Thiemann, TC and Lemenager, DA and Kluh, S and Carroll, BD and Lothrop, HD and Reisen, WK}, title = {Spatial variation in host feeding patterns of Culex tarsalis and the Culex pipiens complex (Diptera: Culicidae) in California.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {49}, number = {4}, pages = {903-916}, pmid = {22897051}, issn = {0022-2585}, support = {R01 AI055607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*parasitology ; California ; Cats ; Cattle ; Culex/*physiology ; Dogs ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; *Host-Parasite Interactions ; Humans ; Insect Vectors/*physiology ; Mice ; Rats ; West Nile Fever/transmission ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (family Flaviviridae, genus Flavivirus, WNV) is now endemic in California across a variety of ecological regions that support a wide diversity of potential avian and mammalian host species. Because different avian hosts have varying competence for WNV, determining the blood-feeding patterns of Culex (Diptera: Culicidae) vectors is a key component in understanding the maintenance and amplification of the virus as well as tangential transmission to humans and horses. We investigated the blood-feeding patterns of Culex tarsalis Coquillett and members of the Culex pipiens L. complex from southern to northern California. Nearly 100 different host species were identified from 1,487 bloodmeals, by using the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase I (COI). Cx. tarsalis fed on a higher diversity of hosts and more frequently on nonhuman mammals than did the Cx. pipiens complex. Several WNV-competent host species, including house finch and house sparrow, were common bloodmeal sources for both vector species across several biomes and could account for WNV maintenance and amplification in these areas. Highly competent American crow, western scrub-jay and yellow-billed magpie also were fed upon often when available and are likely important as amplifying hosts for WNV in some areas. Neither species fed frequently on humans (Cx. pipiens complex [0.4%], Cx. tarsalis [0.2%]), but with high abundance, both species could serve as both enzootic and bridge vectors for WNV.}, }
@article {pmid22890834, year = {2013}, author = {Di Lascio, F and Nyffeler, F and Bshary, R and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Ravens (Corvus corax) are indifferent to the gains of conspecific recipients or human partners in experimental tasks.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {16}, number = {1}, pages = {35-43}, pmid = {22890834}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Choice Behavior ; Cognition ; *Cooperative Behavior ; *Crows ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; }, abstract = {Although cooperative behaviours are common in animals, the cognitive processes underpinning such behaviours are very likely to differ between species. In humans, other-regarding preferences have been proposed to sustain long-term cooperation between individuals. The extent to which such psychological capacities exist in other animals is still under investigation. Five hand-reared ravens were first tested in an experiment where they could provide food to a conspecific at no cost to themselves. We offered them two behavioural options that provided identical amounts of food to the actor and where one of the two options additionally delivered a reward to a recipient. Subsequently, we made the ravens play a no-cost cooperation game with an experimenter. The experimenter had the same options as the animals and matched the ravens' choices, making the prosocial choice the more profitable option. In both conditions, ravens were indifferent to the effects of their choices and hence failed to help conspecifics and to cooperate with the experimenter. While our negative results should be interpreted with care, overall, our findings suggest that the ravens had no understanding of the consequences of their actions for a potential recipient. This study adds to several others that have used a similar set-up and have reported negative results on other-regarding preferences in animals.}, }
@article {pmid22884611, year = {2013}, author = {Ilieva, I and Boland, J and Farah, MJ}, title = {Objective and subjective cognitive enhancing effects of mixed amphetamine salts in healthy people.}, journal = {Neuropharmacology}, volume = {64}, number = {}, pages = {496-505}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuropharm.2012.07.021}, pmid = {22884611}, issn = {1873-7064}, mesh = {Adult ; Amphetamines/*pharmacology ; Central Nervous System Stimulants/*pharmacology ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Creativity ; Cross-Over Studies ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory, Episodic ; Memory, Short-Term/drug effects ; Nootropic Agents/*pharmacology ; Performance-Enhancing Substances/*pharmacology ; Reproducibility of Results ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Psychostimulants such as mixed amphetamine salts (MAS, brand name Adderall) are widely used for cognitive enhancement by healthy young people, yet laboratory research on effectiveness has yielded variable results. The present study assessed the effects of MAS in healthy young adults with an adequately powered double-blind cross-over placebo-controlled trial. We examined effects in 13 measures of cognitive ability including episodic memory, working memory, inhibitory control, convergent creativity, intelligence and scholastic achievement, with the goals of determining (1) whether the drug is at least moderately enhancing (Cohen's d >= .5) to some or all cognitive abilities tested, (2) whether its effects on cognition are moderated by baseline ability or COMT genotype, and (3) whether it induces an illusory perception of cognitive enhancement. The results did not reveal enhancement of any cognitive abilities by MAS for participants in general. There was a suggestion of moderation of enhancement by baseline ability and COMT genotype in a minority of tasks, with MAS enhancing lower ability participants on word recall, embedded figures and Raven's Progressive Matrices. Despite the lack of enhancement observed for most measures and most participants, participants nevertheless believed their performance was more enhanced by the active capsule than by placebo. We conclude that MAS has no more than small effects on cognition in healthy young adults, although users may perceive the drug as enhancing their cognition. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Cognitive Enhancers'.}, }
@article {pmid22873805, year = {2012}, author = {Kryukov, A and Spiridonova, L and Nakamura, S and Haring, E and Suzuki, H}, title = {Comparative phylogeography of two crow species: jungle crow Corvus macrorhynchos and carrion crow Corvus corone.}, journal = {Zoological science}, volume = {29}, number = {8}, pages = {484-492}, doi = {10.2108/zsj.29.484}, pmid = {22873805}, issn = {0289-0003}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Crows/classification/*genetics/*physiology ; Cytochromes b/genetics/metabolism ; Demography ; Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic ; Phylogeography ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The jungle crow Corvus macrorhynchos Wagler, 1827, and the carrion crow Corvus corone L., 1758, are two closely related species with similar ecological requirements that occupy wide distribution ranges in the Palearctic. We studied patterns of their genetic variation by using sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. Corvus macrorhynchos demonstrates a low level of variation and differentiation throughout its range, except for a highly diverged population of Cheju Island (Korea). The haplotype network shows two haplogroups. The island group comprises populations of Sakhalin, Hokkaido, Honshu, and Kyushu, while the haplotypes of Taiwan and Ryukyu Islands proved to be closer to the mainland group, which also includes populations from the Primorye, Khabarovsk, Amur, and Magadan regions in the Russian Far East. This pattern allowed us to develop a phylogeographic hypothesis regarding the two modes of settling of the island populations. Concerning C. corone, the presence of two distinct haplogroups was confirmed within the range of C. c. orientalis. Both haplogroups are found within the same populations in Kamchatka and North Sakhalin, which implies secondary contacts there. Populations of C. corone are found to be rather stable in the western parts of its range, while in the Far East populations experienced recent growth, as was observed for C. macrorhynchos in general. The two species appear to have passed through different evolutionary scenarios.}, }
@article {pmid22868655, year = {2013}, author = {Cornoldi, C and Giofrè, D and Calgaro, G and Stupiggia, C}, title = {Attentional WM is not necessarily specifically related with fluid intelligence: the case of smart children with ADHD symptoms.}, journal = {Psychological research}, volume = {77}, number = {4}, pages = {508-515}, pmid = {22868655}, issn = {1430-2772}, mesh = {*Attention ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*psychology ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Executive Function ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {Executive functions and, in particular, Attentional (active) Working Memory (WM) have been associated with fluid intelligence. The association contrasts with the hypothesis that children with ADHD exhibit problems with WM tasks requiring controlled attention and may have a good fluid intelligence. This paper examines whether children who are intelligent but present ADHD symptoms fail in attentional WM tasks. The latter result would be problematic for theories assuming the generality of a strict relationship between intelligence and WM. To study these issues, a battery of tests was administered to a group of 58 children who all displayed symptoms of ADHD. All children were between the age of 8 and 11 years, and were described by their teachers as smart. Children were compared to a control group matched for age, schooling, and gender. The battery included a test of fluid intelligence (Raven's Coloured Matrices), and a series of visuospatial WM tasks. Results showed that children with ADHD were high in intelligence but significantly lower than the controls in WM tasks requiring high attentional control, whereas there was no difference in WM tasks requiring low attentional control. Furthermore, only high attentional control WM tasks were significantly related to Raven's performance in the control group, whereas all WM tasks were similarly related in the ADHD group. It is concluded that performance in high attentional control WM tasks may be related to fluid intelligence, but also to a specific control component that is independent of intelligence and is poor in children with ADHD.}, }
@article {pmid22866773, year = {2012}, author = {Mikolasch, S and Kotrschal, K and Schloegl, C}, title = {The influence of local enhancement on choice performances in African Grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus) and jackdaws (Corvus monedula).}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {126}, number = {4}, pages = {399-406}, doi = {10.1037/a0028209}, pmid = {22866773}, issn = {1939-2087}, mesh = {Animals ; *Choice Behavior ; *Crows ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Learning ; Male ; *Parrots ; Reward ; }, abstract = {Being attentive to the behavior of others may be advantageous to gain important information, for example, on the location of food. Often, this is achieved through simple local enhancement. However, this is not always beneficial, as it may override cognitive abilities, with negative consequences. Grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus) and ravens have already succeeded in exclusion tasks, but carrion crows do so only when controlling for local enhancement, and jackdaws (Corvus monedula) fail entirely. Presently, we tested whether jackdaws would still be influenced by local enhancement in a simple choice-task. We compared their performance with those of Grey parrots. Since these birds did not respond to enhancement in the exclusion task, we expected them also to be less susceptible to enhancement here. In our tasks, two pieces of food were visibly hidden under two cups. Then one cup was lifted, the reward was shown to the bird and was either laid back underneath the cup or was removed. Alternatively, both manipulations were combined with the first reward being shown to the bird and the second one being removed or vice versa. Surprisingly, both species had a preference for the last handled cup, irrespective of whether it contained food or not. However, if the birds had to wait for 10 seconds after the presentation, the jackdaws performed better than the Grey parrots. Additionally, the delay improved the performance of both species in conditions in which the reward was removed last and deteriorated their performance in conditions in which the item was shown last.}, }
@article {pmid22865964, year = {2012}, author = {Saxena, S and Sahay, A and Goel, P}, title = {Effect of fluoride exposure on the intelligence of school children in Madhya Pradesh, India.}, journal = {Journal of neurosciences in rural practice}, volume = {3}, number = {2}, pages = {144-149}, pmid = {22865964}, issn = {0976-3155}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To assess the relationship between exposure to different drinking water fluoride levels and children's intelligence in Madhya Pradesh state, India.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 12-year-old school children of Madhya Pradesh state, India. The children were selected from low (< 1.5 parts per million) and high (&#x2265;1.5 parts per million) fluoride areas. A questionnaire was used to collect information on the children's personal characteristics, residential history, medical history, educational level of the head of the family, and socioeconomic status of the family. Levels of lead, arsenic, and iodine in the urine and the levels of fluoride in the water and urine were analyzed. The children's intelligence was measured using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. Data analysis was done using the chi-square, one way analysis of variance, simple linear regression, and multiple linear regression tests. P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.<br><br>RESULTS: Differences in participant's sociodemographic characteristics, urinary iodine, urinary lead, and urinary arsenic levels were statistically not significant (P>0.05). However, a statistically significant difference was observed in the urinary fluoride levels (P 0.000). Reduction in intelligence was observed with an increased water fluoride level (P 0.000). The urinary fluoride level was a significant predictor for intelligence (P 0.000).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Children in endemic areas of fluorosis are at risk for impaired development of intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid22851777, year = {2012}, author = {Burns, TE and Ribble, C and Stephen, C and Kelton, D and Toews, L and Osterhold, J and Wheeler, H}, title = {Use of observed wild bird activity on poultry farms and a literature review to target species as high priority for avian influenza testing in 2 regions of Canada.}, journal = {The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne}, volume = {53}, number = {2}, pages = {158-166}, pmid = {22851777}, issn = {0008-5286}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Domestic/virology ; Animals, Wild/virology ; Birds ; British Columbia/epidemiology ; Disease Outbreaks/veterinary ; Disease Reservoirs/*veterinary/virology ; Female ; Influenza in Birds/diagnosis/epidemiology/*transmission ; Male ; Ontario/epidemiology ; Poultry ; Prevalence ; Risk Factors ; Seasons ; Sentinel Surveillance/*veterinary ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The risk of avian influenza outbreaks in poultry is partially dependent on the probability of contact between domestic poultry and wild birds shedding avian influenza (AI) virus. The major objective of this study was to document wild bird activity on poultry farms to determine which wild bird species should be targeted for AI surveillance in Canada. We collected data in 2 major poultry producing regions of Canada, southwestern Ontario and the Fraser Valley of British Columbia, on the relative abundance of various wild bird species found on poultry farms and on how these species utilized habitat around poultry farms. We reviewed the published literature to determine what was known about AI pathobiology in the species we observed. From these results we created a list of 10 wild bird species that are a priority for further study. These species are the European starling, barn swallow, rock dove, American crow, northwestern crow, American robin, dark-eyed junco, song sparrow, horned lark, and common grackle. Abundance of these and other species varied between provinces and seasons.}, }
@article {pmid22848384, year = {2012}, author = {Cheke, LG and Loissel, E and Clayton, NS}, title = {How do children solve Aesop's Fable?.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {7}, number = {7}, pages = {e40574}, pmid = {22848384}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Crows/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Learning/*physiology ; Male ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Studies on members of the crow family using the "Aesop's Fable" paradigm have revealed remarkable abilities in these birds, and suggested a mechanism by which associative learning and folk physics may interact when learning new problems. In the present study, children between 4 and 10 years of age were tested on the same tasks as the birds. Overall the performance of the children between 5-7-years was similar to that of the birds, while children from 8-years were able to succeed in all tasks from the first trial. However the pattern of performance across tasks suggested that different learning mechanisms might be being employed by children than by adult birds. Specifically, it is possible that in children, unlike corvids, performance is not affected by counter-intuitive mechanism cues.}, }
@article {pmid22842292, year = {2012}, author = {Zhang, R and Song, G and Qu, Y and Alström, P and Ramos, R and Xing, X and Ericson, PG and Fjeldså, J and Wang, H and Yang, X and Kristin, A and Shestopalov, AM and Choe, JC and Lei, F}, title = {Comparative phylogeography of two widespread magpies: importance of habitat preference and breeding behavior on genetic structure in China.}, journal = {Molecular phylogenetics and evolution}, volume = {65}, number = {2}, pages = {562-572}, doi = {10.1016/j.ympev.2012.07.011}, pmid = {22842292}, issn = {1095-9513}, mesh = {Animals ; Bayes Theorem ; China ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; *Ecosystem ; Genetics, Population ; Introns ; Likelihood Functions ; Models, Genetic ; Passeriformes/*genetics/physiology ; Phylogeny ; *Phylogeography ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; *Sexual Behavior, Animal ; Sympatry ; }, abstract = {Historical geological events and climatic changes are believed to have played important roles in shaping the current distribution of species. However, sympatric species may have responded in different ways to such climatic fluctuations. Here we compared genetic structures of two corvid species, the Azure-winged Magpie Cyanopica cyanus and the Eurasian Magpie Pica pica, both widespread but with different habitat dependence and some aspects of breeding behavior. Three mitochondrial genes and two nuclear introns were used to examine their co-distributed populations in East China and the Iberian Peninsula. Both species showed deep divergences between these two regions that were dated to the late Pliocene/early Pleistocene. In the East Chinese clade of C. cyanus, populations were subdivided between Northeast China and Central China, probably since the early to mid-Pleistocene, and the Central subclade showed a significant pattern of isolation by distance. In contrast, no genetic structure was found in the East China populations of P. pica. We suggest that the different patterns in the two species are at least partly explained by ecological differences between them, especially in habitat preference and perhaps also breeding behavior. These dissimilarities in life history traits might have affected the dispersal and survival abilities of these two species differently during environmental fluctuations.}, }
@article {pmid22839101, year = {2012}, author = {Ghazi, HF and Isa, ZM and Aljunid, S and Shah, SA and Tamil, AM and Abdalqader, MA}, title = {The negative impact of living environment on intelligence quotient of primary school children in Baghdad City, Iraq: a cross-sectional study.}, journal = {BMC public health}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {562}, pmid = {22839101}, issn = {1471-2458}, mesh = {Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Iraq ; Male ; *Schools ; *Social Environment ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Environmental factors play a very important role in the child development process, especially in a situation like that of Iraq. Thirteen years of economic sanctions followed by the 2003 war and 8 years of unstable security have affected the daily life of Iraqi families and children. The objective of this study was to assess the associations between living environment domains and child intelligence quotient (IQ) score.<br><br>METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 529 children aged 7-8&#x2009;years from five primary schools in Baghdad during September-October, 2011. The five schools represent people living a range of conditions, and include of both high and low socio-economic groups. Living environment was assessed by 13 questionnaire items, consists of three domains: physical safety , mental stress and public services. While IQ was assessed by Raven Colored progressive matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: Among the participants, 22% were of low intelligence versus 77% of high intelligence and 19% lived in a poor environment. There were significant associations between the mental stress and service living environment domains and child IQ (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.009 and p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.001, respectively).<br><br>CONCLUSION: In Iraq, child IQ was found to be associated with the mental stress and service domains of the living environment. This study findings will help authorities in their efforts to improve living environment.}, }
@article {pmid22826479, year = {2012}, author = {Wheeler, SS and Langevin, SA and Brault, AC and Woods, L and Carroll, BD and Reisen, WK}, title = {Detection of persistent west nile virus RNA in experimentally and naturally infected avian hosts.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {87}, number = {3}, pages = {559-564}, pmid = {22826479}, issn = {1476-1645}, support = {R01-A155607//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Bird Diseases/transmission/*virology ; Culicidae/virology ; Finches/*virology ; Immunohistochemistry ; RNA, Viral/*isolation &amp; purification ; Sparrows/*virology ; West Nile Fever/transmission/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {To determine whether West Nile virus (WNV) persistent infection in avian hosts may potentially serve as an overwintering mechanism, House Sparrows and House Finches, experimentally and naturally infected with several strains of WNV, and two naturally infected Western Scrub-Jays were held in mosquito-proof outdoor aviaries from 2007-March 2008. Overall, 94% (n = 36) of House Sparrows, 100% (n = 14) of House Finches and 2 Western Scrub-Jays remained WNV antibody positive. When combined by species, 37% of the House Sparrows, 50% of the House Finches, and 2 Western Scrub-Jays were WNV RNA positive at necropsy, up to 36 weeks post-infection. Infectious WNV was not detected. Our study supports the hypothesis that some avian hosts support the long-term persistence of WNV RNA, but it remains unresolved whether these infections relapse to restart an avian-arthropod transmission cycle and thereby serve as an overwintering mechanism for WNV.}, }
@article {pmid22808210, year = {2012}, author = {Grarock, K and Tidemann, CR and Wood, J and Lindenmayer, DB}, title = {Is it benign or is it a Pariah? Empirical evidence for the impact of the common Myna (Acridotheres tristis) on Australian birds.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {7}, number = {7}, pages = {e40622}, pmid = {22808210}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Birds/*physiology ; *Empirical Research ; Geography ; *Introduced Species ; Nesting Behavior/physiology ; Regression Analysis ; Species Specificity ; Starlings/*physiology ; }, abstract = {There is widespread concern over the impact of introduced species on biodiversity, but the magnitude of these impacts can be variable. Understanding the impact of an introduced species is essential for effective management. However, empirical evidence of the impact of an introduced species can be difficult to obtain, especially when the impact is through competition. Change in species abundance is often slow and gradual, coinciding with environmental change. As a result, negative impacts on native species through competition are poorly documented. An example of the difficulties associated with obtaining empirical evidence of impact due to competition comes from work on the Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis). The species is listed in the World's top 100 worst invaders, despite a lack of empirical evidence of its negative impacts on native species. We assessed the impact of the Common Myna on native bird abundance, using long-term data both pre and post its invasion. At the outset of our investigation, we postulated that Common Myna establishment would negatively affect the abundance of other cavity-nesting species and bird species that are smaller than it. We found a negative relationship between the establishment of the Common Myna and the long-term abundance of three cavity-nesting species (Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Crimson Rosella, Laughing Kookaburra) and eight small bird species (Striated Paradoxes, Rufous Whistler, Willie Wagtail, Grey Fantail, Magpie-lark, House Sparrow, Silvereye, Common Blackbird). To the best of our knowledge, this finding has never previously been demonstrated at the population level. We discuss the key elements of our success in finding empirical evidence of a species impact and the implications for prioritisation of introduced species for management. Specifically, prioritization of the Common Myna for management over other species still remains a contentious issue.}, }
@article {pmid22808144, year = {2012}, author = {Moreno-Rueda, G and Redondo, T and Trenzado, CE and Sanz, A and Zúñiga, JM}, title = {Oxidative stress mediates physiological costs of begging in magpie (Pica pica) nestlings.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {7}, number = {7}, pages = {e40367}, pmid = {22808144}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Likelihood Functions ; Linear Models ; Malondialdehyde/metabolism ; Nesting Behavior/*physiology ; *Oxidative Stress ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Theoretical models predict that a cost is necessary to guarantee honesty in begging displays given by offspring to solicit food from their parents. There is evidence for begging costs in the form of a reduced growth rate and immunocompetence. Moreover, begging implies vigorous physical activity and attentiveness, which should increase metabolism and thus the releasing of pro-oxidant substances. Consequently, we predict that soliciting offspring incur a cost in terms of oxidative stress, and growth rate and immune response (processes that generate pro-oxidants substances) are reduced in order to maintain oxidative balance.<br><br>We test whether magpie (Pica pica) nestlings incur a cost in terms of oxidative stress when experimentally forced to beg intensively, and whether oxidative balance is maintained by reducing growth rate and immune response. Our results show that begging provokes oxidative stress, and that nestlings begging for longer bouts reduce growth and immune response, thereby maintaining their oxidative status.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: These findings help explaining the physiological link between begging and its associated growth and immunocompetence costs, which seems to be mediated by oxidative stress. Our study is a unique example of the complex relationships between the intensity of a communicative display (begging), oxidative stress, and life-history traits directly linked to viability.}, }
@article {pmid22787966, year = {2012}, author = {McMillan, I}, title = {Step change.}, journal = {Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987)}, volume = {26}, number = {38}, pages = {18-20}, pmid = {22787966}, issn = {0029-6570}, mesh = {*Dancing ; Humans ; Learning Disabilities/*physiopathology ; London ; }, abstract = {Staffat a south east London NHS trust are discovering how dance can improve their communication with patients with learning disabilities. Weekly dance sessions, run by Magpie Dance, are now also being made available to people with dementia, autism and other conditions. Through dance people can express emotion, build confidence and change their lives.}, }
@article {pmid22783490, year = {2012}, author = {Shin, KC and Bae, TH and Kim, WS and Kim, HK}, title = {Usefulness of Gold Thread Implantation for Crow's Feet.}, journal = {Archives of plastic surgery}, volume = {39}, number = {1}, pages = {42-45}, pmid = {22783490}, issn = {2234-6171}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Conservative techniques designed to block or delay the aging process have been utilized in various ways for many years. However, their effects can be relatively minimal and short-term in most cases compared to surgery. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of gold thread implantation for the treatment of periorbital wrinkles.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 78 consecutive patients who showed mild to severe periorbital wrinkles were deemed appropriate candidates, including 69 women and 9 men ranging from 31 to 59 years (mean, 47 years). Six gold threads about 4 cm in length were inserted subdermally in each patient at intervals of about 0.5 cm. Follow-up assessments were performed 1, 4, and 12 weeks after the procedure. The efficacy was rated by the physician using the Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale and patients who made global assessments of changes in periorbital wrinkles using the Visual Analog Scale. Adverse events were monitored throughout the course of the study.<br><br>RESULTS: The patients showed significant improvements after the procedure. There were minor complications such as foreign body sensation in the eye (2.63%) and eye pain (1.32%) that improved spontaneously without any specific treatments.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Subdermal implantation of gold thread improves the appearance of periorbital wrinkles and does not appear to have serious side effects. Insertion of gold thread may be an effective and safe method for facial rejuvenation.}, }
@article {pmid22774426, year = {2012}, author = {Diaz, A and Sellami, K and Infanzón, E and Lanzón, T and Lynn, R}, title = {A comparative study of general intelligence in Spanish and Moroccan samples.}, journal = {The Spanish journal of psychology}, volume = {15}, number = {2}, pages = {526-532}, doi = {10.5209/rev_sjop.2012.v15.n2.38863}, pmid = {22774426}, issn = {1138-7416}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Morocco ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Spain ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study is to fill a gap in intelligence research by presenting data for the average IQ in Morocco and for a comparable sample in Spain. Adult samples were administered the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) (Raven, Court, &amp; Raven, 2001) and scored for the total test and for the three sub-factors of gestalt continuation, verbal-analytical reasoning and visuospatial ability identified by Lynn, Allik, and Irwing (2004). The total test and the three factors have shown satisfactory reliability. Our results for the Moroccan sample show significant relationship between general intelligence factor, gestalt continuation and visuospatial ability with education level and income. Conversely, these variables have been shown to be independent for the Spanish sample. This sample obtained significantly higher scores for the four factors assessed than the Moroccan one. These differences have been found also comparing samples with the same education levels. Finally, the errors percentage for Moroccans has been higher than for Spaniards in all the items, suggesting that the level of difficulty was higher for the Moroccan sample.}, }
@article {pmid22753633, year = {2012}, author = {Dykiert, D and Bates, TC and Gow, AJ and Penke, L and Starr, JM and Deary, IJ}, title = {Predicting mortality from human faces.}, journal = {Psychosomatic medicine}, volume = {74}, number = {6}, pages = {560-566}, doi = {10.1097/PSY.0b013e318259c33f}, pmid = {22753633}, issn = {1534-7796}, support = {/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; MR/K026992/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; G0700704/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; ETM/55/CSO_/Chief Scientist Office/United Kingdom ; CZB/4/505/CSO_/Chief Scientist Office/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*physiology ; Cohort Studies ; Esthetics ; Face/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Female ; *Forecasting ; Health ; Health Status ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Mortality/*trends ; Photography ; Proportional Hazards Models ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sex Factors ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether and to what extent mortality is predictable from facial photographs of older people.<br><br>METHODS: High-quality facial photographs of 292 members of the Lothian Birth Cohort 1921, taken at the age of about 83 years, were rated in terms of apparent age, health, attractiveness, facial symmetry, intelligence, and well-being by 12 young-adult raters. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to study associations between these ratings and mortality during a 7-year follow-up period.<br><br>RESULTS: All ratings had adequate reliability. Concurrent validity was found for facial symmetry and intelligence (as determined by correlations with actual measures of fluctuating asymmetry in the faces and Raven Standard Progressive Matrices score, respectively), but not for the other traits. Age as rated from facial photographs, adjusted for sex and chronological age, was a significant predictor of mortality (hazard ratio = 1.36, 95% confidence interval = 1.12-1.65) and remained significant even after controlling for concurrent, objectively measured health and cognitive ability, and the other ratings. Health as rated from facial photographs, adjusted for sex and chronological age, significantly predicted mortality (hazard ratio = 0.81, 95% confidence interval = 0.67-0.99) but not after adjusting for rated age or objectively measured health and cognition. Rated attractiveness, symmetry, intelligence, and well-being were not significantly associated with mortality risk.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Rated age of the face is a significant predictor of mortality risk among older people, with predictive value over and above that of objective or rated health status and cognitive ability.}, }
@article {pmid24115903, year = {2012}, author = {Krishnaraj, K and Chandrasekar, MJ and Nanjan, MJ and Muralidharan, S and Manikandan, D}, title = {Development of sustained release antipsychotic tablets using novel polysaccharide isolated from Delonix regia seeds and its pharmacokinetic studies.}, journal = {Saudi pharmaceutical journal : SPJ : the official publication of the Saudi Pharmaceutical Society}, volume = {20}, number = {3}, pages = {239-248}, pmid = {24115903}, issn = {1319-0164}, abstract = {A natural polysaccharide was isolated from the seeds of Delonix regia. The isolated polysaccharide could maintain aqueous equilibrium between the dosage form and the surrounding medium due to its massive competence of water absorption (80.72%) and swelling index (266.7%). The Scanning Electron Micrograph of a polysaccharide exhibits rough surface with pores and crevices, hence, the drug release will be retarded because of the drug particles entrapment in the pores and crevices. Further, the surface tension of polysaccharide is higher than that of water, which may facilitate sustained release of drugs from dosage forms. An antipsychotic drug, quetiapine fumarate has a short half-life of 6 h and administered multiple times per day. Hence the quetiapine fumarate oral sustained release tablets were formulated using this polysaccharide in the concentration of 5-30% to avoid the side effects and increase patient compliance. Dissolution of the developed tablets with 25% polysaccharide content showed a better release profile than the other batches (5-20%) at the end of 12 h. The strong matrix complex has low solubility in water, it does not dissolve rapidly and the drug continues to diffuse through the gel layer at a consistent rate. Drug release from the matrix tablets follows matrix type except F-4 and F-5 which follow first order and Hix.crow type. The bioavailability study was carried out using healthy male New Zealand white rabbits that show the AUC(0-inf) value for developed SR tablets is 1.44 times higher than the reference thus, indicating more efficient and sustained drug delivery capable of maintaining plasma drug levels better.}, }
@article {pmid22737648, year = {2012}, author = {Ozgur, OK and Murariu, D and Parsa, AA and Parsa, FD}, title = {Dry eye syndrome due to botulinum toxin type-A injection: guideline for prevention.}, journal = {Hawai'i journal of medicine &amp; public health : a journal of Asia Pacific Medicine &amp; Public Health}, volume = {71}, number = {5}, pages = {120-123}, pmid = {22737648}, issn = {2165-8242}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; Dry Eye Syndromes/diagnosis/etiology/*prevention &amp; control ; Eyelids/drug effects ; Humans ; Neuromuscular Agents/administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; *Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Public Health ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {Dry eye syndrome is a potential complication of botulinum toxin type-A injection (BTX-A) into the lateral canthal rhytids (crow's feet). The early manifestations of this syndrome are subtle and are rarely reported to the treating physician. A guideline for early detection of dry-eye state is proposed, in order to avoid more troublesome adverse effects that may develop with repeated injections of BTX-A into the crow's feet region. If suspected early, clinical manifestations remain minor and are reversible. However, delayed diagnosis may lead to troublesome and persistent symptoms. A novel and practical grading scale of lower eyelid snap-back and distraction tests is offered that helps in documenting patient's clinical progress and in deciding when BTX-A injections should be delayed or discontinued.}, }
@article {pmid22731858, year = {2012}, author = {Literak, I and Micudova, M and Tausova, D and Cizek, A and Dolejska, M and Papousek, I and Prochazka, J and Vojtech, J and Borleis, F and Guardone, L and Guenther, S and Hordowski, J and Lejas, C and Meissner, W and Marcos, BF and Tucakov, M}, title = {Plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance genes in fecal bacteria from rooks commonly wintering throughout Europe.}, journal = {Microbial drug resistance (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {18}, number = {6}, pages = {567-573}, doi = {10.1089/mdr.2012.0075}, pmid = {22731858}, issn = {1931-8448}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/microbiology ; Crows/*microbiology ; Enterobacteriaceae/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Enterobacteriaceae Infections/*epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; Escherichia coli Proteins/classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Europe/epidemiology ; Feces/microbiology ; Fluoroquinolones/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Plasmids/classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/*veterinary ; Protein Isoforms/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {This study concerned the occurrence of fecal bacteria with plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) genes in rooks (Corvus frugilegus, medium-sized corvid birds) wintering in continental Europe during winter 2010/2011. Samples of fresh rook feces were taken by cotton swabs at nine roosting places in eight European countries. Samples were transported to one laboratory and placed in buffered peptone water (BPW). The samples from BPW were enriched and subcultivated onto MacConkey agar (MCA) supplemented with ciprofloxacin (0.06 mg/L) to isolate fluoroquinolone-resistant bacteria. DNA was isolated from smears of bacterial colonies growing on MCA and tested by PCR for PMQR genes aac(6')-Ib, qepA, qnrA, qnrB, qnrC, qnrD, qnrS, and oqxAB. All the PCR products were further analyzed by sequencing. Ciprofloxacin-resistant bacteria were isolated from 37% (392 positive/1,073 examined) of samples. Frequencies of samples with ciprofloxacin-resistant isolates ranged significantly from 3% to 92% in different countries. The qnrS1 gene was found in 154 samples and qnrS2 in 2 samples. The gene aac(6')-Ib-cr was found in 16 samples. Thirteen samples were positive for qnrB genes in variants qnrB6 (one sample), qnrB18 (one), qnrB19 (one), qnrB29 (one), and qnrB49 (new variant) (one). Both the qnrD and oqxAB genes were detected in six samples. The genes qnrA, qnrC, and qepA were not found. Wintering omnivorous rooks in Europe were commonly colonized by bacteria supposedly Enterobacteriaceae with PMQR genes. Rooks may disseminate these epidemiologically important bacteria over long distances and pose a risk for environmental contamination.}, }
@article {pmid22727895, year = {2012}, author = {Sun, Y and Luo, X and Wu, J and Mo, L and Chen, S and Zhang, Q and Zou, F and Mai, B}, title = {Species- and tissue-specific accumulation of Dechlorane Plus in three terrestrial passerine bird species from the Pearl River Delta, South China.}, journal = {Chemosphere}, volume = {89}, number = {4}, pages = {445-451}, doi = {10.1016/j.chemosphere.2012.05.089}, pmid = {22727895}, issn = {1879-1298}, mesh = {Animals ; China ; *Environmental Exposure ; Environmental Monitoring ; Environmental Pollutants/*pharmacokinetics ; Flame Retardants/*pharmacokinetics ; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry ; Hydrocarbons, Chlorinated/*pharmacokinetics ; Polycyclic Compounds/*pharmacokinetics ; Seasons ; Songbirds/*metabolism ; Species Specificity ; Tissue Distribution ; }, abstract = {Little data is available on the bioaccumulation of Dechlorane Plus (DP) in terrestrial organisms. Three terrestrial passerine bird species, light-vented bulbul, long-tailed shrike, and oriental magpie-robin, were collected from rural and urban sites in the Pearl River Delta to analyze for the presence of DP and its dechlorinated products in muscle and liver tissues. The relationships between trophic level and concentration and isomeric composition of DP in birds were also investigated based on stable nitrogen isotope analysis. DP levels had a wide range from 3.9 to 930 ng g(-1)lipid weight (lw) in muscle and from 7.0 to 1300 ng g(-1)lw in liver. Anti-Cl(11)-DP and syn-Cl(11)-DP, two dechlorinated products of DP, were also detected in bird samples with concentrations ranged between not detected (nd)-41 and nd-7.6 ng g(-1)lw, respectively. DP preferentially accumulated in liver rather than in muscle for all three bird species. Birds had significantly higher concentrations of DP in urban sites than in rural sites (mean, 300 vs 73 ng g(-1)lw). The fractions of anti-DP (f(anti)) were higher in birds collected in rural sites than in urban sites. Significant positive correlation between DP levels and δ(15)N values but significant negative correlation between f(anti) and δ(15)N values were found for birds in both urban and rural sites, indicating that trophic level of birds play an important role in determining DP level and isomeric profile.}, }
@article {pmid22719135, year = {2011}, author = {Malamud, O and Pop-Eleches, C}, title = {HOME COMPUTER USE AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF HUMAN CAPITAL.}, journal = {The quarterly journal of economics}, volume = {126}, number = {2}, pages = {987-1027}, pmid = {22719135}, issn = {0033-5533}, support = {R24 HD051152/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {This paper uses a regression discontinuity design to estimate the effect of home computers on child and adolescent outcomes by exploiting a voucher program in Romania. Our main results indicate that home computers have both positive and negative effects on the development of human capital. Children who won a voucher to purchase a computer had significantly lower school grades but show improved computer skills. There is also some evidence that winning a voucher increased cognitive skills, as measured by Raven's Progressive Matrices. We do not find much evidence for an effect on non-cognitive outcomes. Parental rules regarding homework and computer use attenuate the effects of computer ownership, suggesting that parental monitoring and supervision may be important mediating factors.}, }
@article {pmid22719044, year = {2013}, author = {Withanage, AP and Mahawatte, P}, title = {Radioactivity of beach sand in the south western coast of Sri Lanka.}, journal = {Radiation protection dosimetry}, volume = {153}, number = {3}, pages = {384-389}, doi = {10.1093/rpd/ncs107}, pmid = {22719044}, issn = {1742-3406}, mesh = {Bathing Beaches ; Calibration ; Environment ; Gamma Rays ; Geography ; Potassium Radioisotopes/analysis ; Radiation Monitoring/*methods ; Radioisotopes/analysis ; *Silicon Dioxide ; Soil Pollutants, Radioactive/*analysis ; Spectrometry, Gamma/methods ; Sri Lanka ; Thorium/analysis ; Uranium/analysis ; }, abstract = {The activity concentrations and effective dose rates due to (232)Th, (238)U and (40)K were determined for sand samples collected along the coastal strip from Crow Island to Beruwala, a part of south western coast of Sri Lanka, using a high-purity germanium detector. The ranges and the mean activity concentrations measured were (11-19 600, 2100), (7-3150, 450) and (14-1210, 220) Bq kg(-1) for (232)Th, (238)U and (40)K, respectively. The effective annual gamma dose in the area ranged from 0.004 to 16.8 mSv y(-1). For 21 % of the locations, the annual effective dose determined from the activity concentrations exceeded the average worldwide exposure of 2.4 mSv y(-1).}, }
@article {pmid22717625, year = {2012}, author = {Puerta-Piñero, C and Pino, J and Gómez, JM}, title = {Direct and indirect landscape effects on Quercus ilex regeneration in heterogeneous environments.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {170}, number = {4}, pages = {1009-1020}, pmid = {22717625}, issn = {1432-1939}, mesh = {Animals ; *Ecosystem ; Life Cycle Stages ; Passeriformes ; *Plant Dispersal ; Quercus/*growth &amp; development ; Seedlings/growth &amp; development ; Sus scrofa ; }, abstract = {Understanding how plant-animal interactions shape plant regeneration is traditionally examined at local scales. In contrast, landscape ecologists working at regional scales often have to infer the mechanisms underlying vegetation patterns. In this study, we empirically explored how landscape attributes (patch connectivity, size, shape, irradiance, slope, and elevation) influence biotic interactions in 1- and 2-year seedlings and saplings of Quercus ilex. We combined field data and GIS-based information under a set of five connectivity scenarios, presuming low, intermediate, and long-distance seed dispersal. Our study emphasizes that landscape, apart from its direct effects on plants, plays a key, albeit indirect, role in plant demography through its effects on seed dispersers and predators. Moreover, the effects of landscape on recruitment differed between plant life stages. One-year seedlings and saplings appear to depend more on plant-animal interactions, while 2-year seedlings depend more on irradiance. Differences in patch connectivity resulted in direct and indirect effects on biotic interactions, which, in turn, produced contrasting positive and negative effects on regeneration at different stages of the life cycle. While jays and wild boars seem crucial to all life stages and most of the connectivity scenarios, rodents and herbivores affected only 1-year seedlings and saplings, respectively, and only a few of the connectivity scenarios. By simultaneously including an ensemble of explanatory factors, our study emphasizes that regeneration depends on a set of key drivers, both abiotic (i.e. irradiance) and biotic (i.e. jays and wild boars), whose effects are greatly modulated by landscape traits.}, }
@article {pmid22705121, year = {2012}, author = {Kadum Yakob, H and Manaf Uyub, A and Fariza Sulaiman, S}, title = {Toxicological evaluation of 80% methanol extract of Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) P.H. Raven leaves (Onagraceae) in BALB/c mice.}, journal = {Journal of ethnopharmacology}, volume = {142}, number = {3}, pages = {663-668}, doi = {10.1016/j.jep.2012.05.035}, pmid = {22705121}, issn = {1872-7573}, mesh = {Alanine Transaminase/blood ; Alkaline Phosphatase/blood ; Animals ; Aspartate Aminotransferases/blood ; Cholesterol/blood ; Female ; Leukocyte Count ; Male ; Methanol/chemistry ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred BALB C ; *Onagraceae ; Plant Extracts/*toxicity ; Plant Leaves/chemistry ; Solvents/chemistry ; }, abstract = {Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) P. H. Raven (Family: Onagraceae), as a traditional Malay herbal medicine,has been used to treat gastrointestinal complaints such as diarrhea and dysentery.<br><br>AIM OF THE STUDY: To date there is no safety information about long term use of Ludwigia octovalvis, a traditionally used medicinal plant in Malaysia. Current study is thus aimed to determine the toxicity profile of the 80% methanolic extract of L. octovalvis by evaluating its acute and subacute toxicity in BALB/c mice.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the acute toxicity study, a single dose of 5000 mg/kg of the extract was administered orally to six mice (3 males and 3 females). General behaviour, mortality and toxic symptoms were determined daily for 14 days. For the subacute toxicity, four groups of 12 mice of either sex received distilled water (control), 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg of the extract daily for 28 consecutive days by oral gavage. The animals were observed daily for abnormal clinical signs and death. Body weight, relative organ weight, haematological and biochemical parameters of blood as well as heart, kidney, liver, lung and spleen tissues histology were evaluated.<br><br>RESULTS: In acute and subacute toxicity, the extract did not produce mortality or morbidity. A significant increase (p<0.05) in WBC count and significant decrease in ALT, AST and ALP levels were only observed in males and females that received 400 mg/kg of the extract, while a significant decrease in the cholesterol level was observed at the highest dose (800 mg/kg). Gross examination of liver, kidney, spleen, lung and heart showed normal histological feature.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Repeated administration of L. octovalvis extract at dose levels of 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg/day for 28 consecutive days to male and female mice did not cause any lethality nor produce any toxicological effects. The results suggest that the extract contains biologically active principles which may have immunostimulatory, hepatoprotective and cardiovascular protective properties.}, }
@article {pmid22701149, year = {2012}, author = {Kanda, Y and Kumagami, H and Hara, M and Sainoo, Y and Sato, C and Yamamoto-Fukuda, T and Yoshida, H and Ito, A and Tanaka, C and Baba, K and Nakata, A and Tanaka, H and Fukushima, K and Kasai, N and Takahashi, H}, title = {What factors are associated with good performance in children with cochlear implants? From the outcome of various language development tests, research on sensory and communicative disorders project in Japan: nagasaki experience.}, journal = {Clinical and experimental otorhinolaryngology}, volume = {5 Suppl 1}, number = {Suppl 1}, pages = {S59-64}, pmid = {22701149}, issn = {2005-0720}, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: We conducted multi-directional language development tests as a part of the Research on Sensory and Communicative Disorders (RSVD) in Japan. This report discusses findings as well as factors that led to better results in children with severe-profound hearing loss.<br><br>METHODS: We evaluated multiple language development tests in 33 Japanese children with cochlear implants (32 patients) and hearing aid (1 patient), including 1) Test for question and answer interaction development, 2) Word fluency test, 3) Japanese version of the Peabody picture vocabulary test-revised, 4) The standardized comprehension test of abstract words, 5) The screening test of reading and writing for Japanese primary school children, 6) The syntactic processing test of aphasia, 7) Criterion-referenced testing (CRT) for Japanese language and mathematics, 8) Pervasive development disorders ASJ rating scales, and 9) Raven's colored progressive matrices. Furthermore, we investigated the factors believed to account for the better performances in these tests. The first group, group A, consisted of 14 children with higher scores in all tests than the national average for children with hearing difficulty. The second group, group B, included 19 children that scored below the national average in any of the tests.<br><br>RESULTS: Overall, the results show that 76.2% of the scores obtained by the children in these tests exceeded the national average scores of children with hearing difficulty. The children who finished above average on all tests had undergone a longer period of regular habilitation in our rehabilitation center, had their implants earlier in life, were exposed to more auditory verbal/oral communication in their education at affiliated institutions, and were more likely to have been integrated in a regular kindergarten before moving on to elementary school.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In this study, we suggest that taking the above four factors into consideration will have an affect on the language development of children with severe-profound hearing loss.}, }
@article {pmid22679878, year = {2012}, author = {Lura, T and Cummings, R and Velten, R and De Collibus, K and Morgan, T and Nguyen, K and Gerry, A}, title = {Host (avian) biting preference of southern California Culex mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae).}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {49}, number = {3}, pages = {687-696}, doi = {10.1603/me11177}, pmid = {22679878}, issn = {0022-2585}, mesh = {Animals ; California ; Culex/*physiology ; Female ; *Host Specificity ; Insect Vectors/*physiology ; Songbirds/*parasitology ; West Nile Fever/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {The host preference of a vector mosquito species plays a significant role in determining human and animal risk of infection with mosquito-transmitted pathogens. Host preferences of common southern California Culex species for four bird species, American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), house sparrow (Passer domesticus), house finch (Carpodacus mexicanus), and mourning dove (Zenaida macroura), were examined by determining the proportion of each mosquito species that successfully engorged on each of the four bird species presented equally within a net trap to wild host-seeking mosquitoes. Bloodmeals in engorged mosquitoes captured within the net trap were identified to avian species by using a multiplex polymerase chain reaction assay targeting the cytochrome b gene sequence. There were significant differences in host selection by all three Culex species captured in numbers sufficient for analysis, with Culex erythrothorax Dyar preferentially biting American crows, Culex tarsalis Coquillett preferentially biting house sparrows, and Culex quinquefasciatus Say preferentially biting house finches. All three Culex species demonstrated more frequent engorgement on passerine birds (sparrows, finches, and crows) than the nonpasserine mourning dove. A greater preference for passerine birds might be expected to increase the transmission of pathogens, such as West Nile virus, to which passerine birds are particularly competent hosts.}, }
@article {pmid22675330, year = {2012}, author = {Gianola, D and Rosa, GJ and Allison, DB}, title = {Humble Thanks to a Gentle Giant (an Obituary for James F. Crow).}, journal = {Frontiers in genetics}, volume = {3}, number = {}, pages = {93}, pmid = {22675330}, issn = {1664-8021}, }
@article {pmid22660088, year = {2012}, author = {Liu, HC and Yariv, A}, title = {"Ideal" optical delay lines based on tailored-coupling and reflecting, coupled-resonator optical waveguides.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {37}, number = {11}, pages = {1964-1966}, doi = {10.1364/OL.37.001964}, pmid = {22660088}, issn = {1539-4794}, abstract = {We present a design of "ideal" optical delay lines (i.e., constant amplitude and constant group delay over the desired bandwidth). They are based on reflection from coupled-resonator optical waveguides (CROWs). The inter-resonator coupling coefficients are tailored and decrease monotonically with the distance from the input to realize all-pass Bessel filters. The tailored coupling coefficients result in a frequency-dependent propagating distance which compensates for the group velocity dispersion of CROWs. We present a simple formalism for deriving the time-domain coupling coefficients and convert these coefficients to field coupling coefficients of ring resonators. The reflecting CROWs possess a delay-bandwidth product of 0.5 per resonator, larger than that of any kind of transmitting CROW. In the presence of uniform gain, the gain enhanced by slow light propagation and the constant group delay result in efficient and dispersion-free amplifiers.}, }
@article {pmid22644115, year = {2012}, author = {Völter, CJ and Call, J}, title = {Problem solving in great apes (Pan paniscus, Pan troglodytes, Gorilla gorilla, and Pongo abelii): the effect of visual feedback.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {923-936}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-012-0519-5}, pmid = {22644115}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Feedback, Sensory ; Female ; Games, Experimental ; Gorilla gorilla/*psychology ; Male ; Pan paniscus/*psychology ; Pan troglodytes/*psychology ; Pongo abelii/*psychology ; *Problem Solving ; Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {What kind of information animals use when solving problems is a controversial topic. Previous research suggests that, in some situations, great apes prefer to use causally relevant cues over arbitrary ones. To further examine to what extent great apes are able to use information about causal relations, we presented three different puzzle box problems to the four nonhuman great ape species. Of primary interest here was a comparison between one group of apes that received visual access to the functional mechanisms of the puzzle boxes and one group that did not. Apes' performance in the first two, less complex puzzle boxes revealed that they are able to solve such problems by means of trial-and-error learning, requiring no information about the causal structure of the problem. However, visual inspection of the functional mechanisms of the puzzle boxes reduced the amount of time needed to solve the problems. In the case of the most complex problem, which required the use of a crank, visual feedback about what happened when the handle of the crank was turned was necessary for the apes to solve the task. Once the solution was acquired, however, visual feedback was no longer required. We conclude that visual feedback about the consequences of their actions helps great apes to solve complex problems. As the crank task matches the basic requirements of vertical string pulling in birds, the present results are discussed in light of recent findings with corvids.}, }
@article {pmid22642364, year = {2012}, author = {Jønsson, KA and Fabre, PH and Irestedt, M}, title = {Brains, tools, innovation and biogeography in crows and ravens.}, journal = {BMC evolutionary biology}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {72}, pmid = {22642364}, issn = {1471-2148}, mesh = {Animal Distribution ; Animals ; Bayes Theorem ; Brain/*physiology ; Crows/*genetics/physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; Islands ; Likelihood Functions ; Organ Size ; *Phylogeny ; Phylogeography ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Crows and ravens (Passeriformes: Corvus) are large-brained birds with enhanced cognitive abilities relative to other birds. They are among the few non-hominid organisms on Earth to be considered intelligent and well-known examples exist of several crow species having evolved innovative strategies and even use of tools in their search for food. The 40 Corvus species have also been successful dispersers and are distributed on most continents and in remote archipelagos.<br><br>RESULTS: This study presents the first molecular phylogeny including all species and a number of subspecies within the genus Corvus. We date the phylogeny and determine ancestral areas to investigate historical biogeographical patterns of the crows. Additionally, we use data on brain size and a large database on innovative behaviour and tool use to test whether brain size (i) explains innovative behaviour and success in applying tools when foraging and (ii) has some correlative role in the success of colonization of islands. Our results demonstrate that crows originated in the Palaearctic in the Miocene from where they dispersed to North America and the Caribbean, Africa and Australasia. We find that relative brain size alone does not explain tool use, innovative feeding strategies and dispersal success within crows.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our study supports monophyly of the genus Corvus and further demonstrates the direction and timing of colonization from the area of origin in the Palaearctic to other continents and archipelagos. The Caribbean was probably colonized from North America, although some North American ancestor may have gone extinct, and the Pacific was colonized multiple times from Asia and Australia. We did not find a correlation between relative brain size, tool use, innovative feeding strategies and dispersal success. Hence, we propose that all crows and ravens have relatively large brains compared to other birds and thus the potential to be innovative if conditions and circumstances are right.}, }
@article {pmid22633310, year = {2012}, author = {Levin, BW and Kirsch, B}, title = {Response to commentary by Jay Cohn, MD.}, journal = {Journal of cardiac failure}, volume = {18}, number = {6}, pages = {512-3; author reply 513}, doi = {10.1016/j.cardfail.2012.04.008}, pmid = {22633310}, issn = {1532-8414}, mesh = {Heart Failure/*classification/*diagnosis ; Humans ; *Thinking ; }, }
@article {pmid22624665, year = {2012}, author = {Lumpkin, HA and Pearson, SM and Turner, MG}, title = {Effects of climate and exurban development on nest predation and predator presence in the southern Appalachian Mountains (USA).}, journal = {Conservation biology : the journal of the Society for Conservation Biology}, volume = {26}, number = {4}, pages = {679-688}, doi = {10.1111/j.1523-1739.2012.01851.x}, pmid = {22624665}, issn = {1523-1739}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; *Food Chain ; *Human Activities ; Humans ; North Carolina ; Population Density ; *Reproduction ; Seasons ; Temperature ; }, abstract = {In the eastern United States, land-use and climate change have likely contributed to declines in the abundance of Neotropical migrant birds that occupy forest interiors, but the mechanisms are not well understood. We conducted a nest-predation experiment in southern Appalachian Mountain forests (North Carolina, U.S.A.) during the 2009 and 2010 breeding seasons to determine the effects of exurban development and temperature on predator presence and the average number of days until eggs in an artificial nest were disturbed by predators. We baited artificial nests with quail (Excalfactoria chinensi) eggs and monitored them for 18 days. We used clay eggs, track plates, and motion-triggered cameras to detect and identify nest predators. The average number of days a nest was undisturbed decreased as mean temperature increased and, to a lesser extent, as the density of buildings increased. Nests on the ground were more often depredated than those in trees, likely due to increased predation by opossum (Didelphis virginiana) and other carnivores. Raccoons (Procyon lotor), opossums, corvids (Corvus brachyrhynchos and Cyanocitta cristata), chipmunks (Tamias striatus), black bears (Ursus americanus), and domestic cats (Felis catus) were the most commonly detected predators. Presence of these predators did not vary as a function of mean temperature. Domestic cats and corvids were detected more frequently in plots with high rather than low densities of buildings. Forest-interior specialists and Neotropical migrants often nest in cool, high-elevation areas with low housing density. These bird species, especially those that nest on the ground, may be most vulnerable to increased nest predation if temperature and exurban development increase at higher elevations as anticipated.}, }
@article {pmid22615884, year = {2012}, author = {Brown, MS and Sarnat, SE and DeMuth, KA and Brown, LA and Whitlock, DR and Brown, SW and Tolbert, PE and Fitzpatrick, AM}, title = {Residential proximity to a major roadway is associated with features of asthma control in children.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {7}, number = {5}, pages = {e37044}, pmid = {22615884}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {R01 NR012021/NR/NINR NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 RR025008/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 TR000454/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; UL1RR025008/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Air Pollutants/*poisoning ; Air Pollution/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Asthma/*epidemiology/etiology/metabolism/pathology ; Child ; Exhalation/physiology ; Female ; Geographic Information Systems ; Housing ; Humans ; Male ; Nitric Oxide/metabolism ; Respiratory Function Tests/methods ; Respiratory Sounds/physiology ; Vehicle Emissions/*poisoning ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: While several studies suggest that traffic-related air pollutants are detrimental for respiratory health, few studies have examined relationships between residential proximity to a major roadway and asthma control in children. Furthermore, a major limitation of existing research is reliance on self-reported outcomes. We therefore determined the spatial relationship between the distance from a major roadway and clinical, physiologic and inflammatory features of asthma in a highly characterized sample of asthmatic children 6-17 years of age across a wide range of severities. We hypothesized that a closer residential proximity to a major roadway would be associated with increased respiratory symptoms, altered pulmonary function and a greater magnitude of airway and systemic inflammation.<br><br>224 children 6-17 years with confirmed asthma completed questionnaires and underwent spirometry, plethysmography, exhaled nitric oxide determination, exhaled breath condensate collection and venipuncture. Residential distance from a major roadway was determined by mapping the geographic coordinates of the residential address in Geographic Information System software. The distance between the home address and the nearest major roadway was calculated according to the shortest distance between the two points (i.e., "as the crow flies"). Asthmatic children living in closer proximity to a major roadway had an increased frequency of wheezing associated with increased medication requirements and more hospitalizations even after controlling for potential confounders. These children also had increased airway resistance, increased airway inflammation reflected by a lower breath condensate pH, and higher plasma EGF concentrations.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: These findings suggest that closer residential proximity to a major roadway is associated with poorer asthma control in school-age children. Assessment of residential proximity to major roadways may be useful in the clinical evaluation of asthma in children.}, }
@article {pmid22611586, year = {2012}, author = {Rose, CN}, title = {Tourism and the Hispanicization of race in Jim Crow Miami, 1945-1965.}, journal = {Journal of social history}, volume = {45}, number = {3}, pages = {735-756}, doi = {10.1093/jsh/shr087}, pmid = {22611586}, issn = {0022-4529}, mesh = {*Cultural Diversity ; Florida/ethnology ; Government/history ; Hispanic or Latino/education/ethnology/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; *Population Groups/education/ethnology/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; *Race Relations/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; Social Behavior/history ; Social Class/history ; *Social Control, Formal ; Social Identification ; Social Perception ; *Travel/economics/history/psychology ; }, abstract = {This article examines how Miami's significant presence of Anglo Caribbean blacks and Spanish-speaking tourists critically influenced the evolution of race relations before and after the watershed 1959 Cuban Revolution. The convergence of people from the American South and North, the Caribbean, and Latin America created a border culture in a city where the influx of Bahamian blacks and Spanish-speakers, especially tourists, had begun to alter the racial landscape. To be sure, Miami had many parallels with other parts of the South in regard to how blackness was understood and enforced by whites during the first half of the twentieth century. However, I argue that the city's post-WWII meteoric tourist growth, along with its emergence as a burgeoning Pan-American metropolis, complicated the traditional southern black-white dichotomy. The purchasing power of Spanish-speaking visitors during the postwar era transformed a tourist economy that had traditionally catered to primarily wealthy white transplanted Northerners. This significant change to the city's tourist industry significantly influenced white civic leaders' decision to occasionally modify Jim Crow practices for Latin American vacationers. In effect, Miami's early Latinization had a profound impact on the established racial order as speaking Spanish became a form of currency that benefited Spanish-speaking tourists—even those of African descent. Paradoxically, this ostensibly peculiar racial climate aided the local struggle by highlighting the idiosyncrasies of Jim Crow while perpetuating the second-class status of native-born blacks.}, }
@article {pmid22611563, year = {2012}, author = {Engels, WR}, title = {James Franklin Crow (1916-2012).}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {22}, number = {7}, pages = {R211-3}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2012.02.034}, pmid = {22611563}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Drosophila/genetics ; Genetics/history ; Genetics, Population/*history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid22605785, year = {2012}, author = {Bilker, WB and Hansen, JA and Brensinger, CM and Richard, J and Gur, RE and Gur, RC}, title = {Development of abbreviated nine-item forms of the Raven's standard progressive matrices test.}, journal = {Assessment}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {354-369}, pmid = {22605785}, issn = {1552-3489}, support = {P50 MH064045/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH084856/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01-MH084856/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; P50-MH064045/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Algorithms ; *Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Models, Psychological ; Models, Statistical ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Poisson Distribution ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Problem Solving ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; Schizophrenia/diagnosis ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The Raven's standard progressive matrices (RSPM) is a 60-item test for measuring abstract reasoning, considered a nonverbal estimate of fluid intelligence, and often included in clinical assessment batteries and research on patients with cognitive deficits. The goal was to develop and apply a predictive model approach to reduce the number of items necessary to yield a score equivalent to that derived from the full scale. The approach is based on a Poisson predictive model. A parsimonious subset of items that accurately predicts the total score was sought, as was a second nonoverlapping alternate form for repeated administrations. A split sample was used for model fitting and validation, with cross-validation to verify results. Using nine RSPM items as predictors, correlations of .9836 and .9782 were achieved for the reduced forms and .9063 and .8978 for the validation data. Thus, a 9-item subset of RSPM predicts the total score for the 60-item scale with good accuracy. A comparison of psychometric properties between 9-item forms, a published 30-item form, and the 60-item set is presented. The two 9-item forms provide a 75% administration time savings compared with the 30-item form, while achieving similar item- and test-level characteristics and equal correlations to 60-item based scores.}, }
@article {pmid22590576, year = {2012}, author = {Abdelkrim, J and Hunt, GR and Gray, RD and Gemmell, NJ}, title = {Population genetic structure and colonisation history of the tool-using New Caledonian crow.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {7}, number = {5}, pages = {e36608}, pmid = {22590576}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*genetics ; *Genetic Variation ; Genetics, Population/methods ; *Introduced Species ; Microsatellite Repeats/*genetics ; New Caledonia ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian crows exhibit considerable variation in tool making between populations. Here, we present the first study of the species' genetic structure over its geographical distribution. We collected feathers from crows on mainland Grande Terre, the inshore island of Toupéti, and the nearby island of Maré where it is believed birds were introduced after European colonisation. We used nine microsatellite markers to establish the genotypes of 136 crows from these islands and classical population genetic tools as well as Approximate Bayesian Computations to explore the distribution of genetic diversity. We found that New Caledonian crows most likely separate into three main distinct clusters: Grande Terre, Toupéti and Maré. Furthermore, Toupéti and Maré crows represent a subset of the genetic diversity observed on Grande Terre, confirming their mainland origin. The genetic data are compatible with a colonisation of Maré taking place after European colonisation around 1900. Importantly, we observed (1) moderate, but significant, genetic differentiation across Grande Terre, and (2) that the degree of differentiation between populations on the mainland increases with geographic distance. These data indicate that despite individual crows' potential ability to disperse over large distances, most gene flow occurs over short distances. The temporal and spatial patterns described provide a basis for further hypothesis testing and investigation of the geographical variation observed in the tool skills of these crows.}, }
@article {pmid22585591, year = {2012}, author = {Colzato, LS and Ruiz, MJ and van den Wildenberg, WP and Hommel, B}, title = {Khat use is associated with increased response conflict in humans.}, journal = {Human psychopharmacology}, volume = {27}, number = {3}, pages = {315-321}, doi = {10.1002/hup.2229}, pmid = {22585591}, issn = {1099-1077}, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Case-Control Studies ; Catha/*adverse effects ; *Conflict, Psychological ; Discrimination, Psychological/drug effects ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Linear Models ; Male ; Netherlands ; Plant Extracts/*adverse effects ; Psychomotor Performance/drug effects ; Reaction Time/drug effects ; Time Factors ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Khat consumption has become a worldwide phenomenon broadening from Eastern Africa and the south west of the Arabian Peninsula to ethnic communities in the rest of the world. Only few studies have systematically looked into cognitive impairments in khat users. We studied whether khat use is associated with changes in the emergence and resolution of response conflict, a central cognitive control function.<br><br>METHOD: Khat users (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;16) and khat-free controls (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;16) were matched in terms of sex, ethnicity, socio-economical situation, age, alcohol and cannabis consumption, and IQ (Raven's Progressive Matrices). Groups were tested on response conflict, as measured by the Simon task.<br><br>RESULTS: Khat users performed significantly slower than controls and were more strongly affected by stimulus-induced response conflict.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Khat use is associated with specific impairments in behavioral control: general slowing and less efficient resolution of response conflicts, which is likely to impair decision making in everyday life.}, }
@article {pmid22570182, year = {2012}, author = {Pfuhl, G and Biegler, R}, title = {Ordinality and novel sequence learning in jackdaws.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {833-849}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-012-0509-7}, pmid = {22570182}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Attention ; Concept Formation ; Conditioning, Operant ; *Crows ; Female ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term ; Photic Stimulation ; *Serial Learning ; }, abstract = {A hallmark of higher cognition is the flexible use of information. This requires an abstract representation of the information. In sequence learning, ordinal position knowledge is seen as a more versatile representation when compared to chaining. Here, we assessed which of these mental representations is the most natural and most dominant in jackdaws. Two jackdaws (Corvus monedula) were trained on 14 separate three-item sequences (triplets), made up of abstract images. On each trial, the three items of one triplet were presented in fixed order. The images represented either the first, second or third ordinal position. Test stimuli consisted of the three images and a distractor image that was chosen randomly from the remaining sequences. We rewarded pecking in the correct order to the images belonging to the same sequence. The most common error the birds made was to peck at a distractor item from the same ordinal position. To look at how versatile the jackdaws' ordinal knowledge was, we replaced a familiar item with a novel item in some sequences. We then created novel sequences with these items, which the birds completed correctly. It appears, then, that jackdaws have a concept of ordinal position.}, }
@article {pmid22568721, year = {2013}, author = {Winarni, TI and Mundhofir, FE and Ediati, A and Belladona, M and Nillesen, WM and Yntema, HG and Hamel, BC and Faradz, SM and Hagerman, RJ}, title = {The fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) in Indonesia.}, journal = {Clinical genetics}, volume = {83}, number = {3}, pages = {263-268}, doi = {10.1111/j.1399-0004.2012.01899.x}, pmid = {22568721}, issn = {1399-0004}, mesh = {Aged ; Ataxia/complications/*genetics ; Family Health ; Female ; Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein/*genetics ; Fragile X Syndrome/complications/*genetics ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease/genetics ; Humans ; Indonesia ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Pedigree ; Syndrome ; Tremor/complications/*genetics ; Trinucleotide Repeat Expansion/genetics ; }, abstract = {Fragile X-associated disorders caused by the premutation of the FMR1 gene, includes the fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS). FXTAS affects more than 40% of premutation males over the age of 50 and 75% over the age of 80. FMR1 molecular analysis was done using PCR and confirmed by Southern Blot. Three premutation males were diagnosed FXTAS using quantification based on the standard neurological examination. Cognitive impairment was assessed using Raven and WAIS-R test. MRI was done to identify the middle cerebellar peduncle (MCP) sign, white matter disease and/or cerebral atrophy. Three cases of FXTAS are identified, of five individuals older than 50 years in one family tree two met criteria for definite FXTAS and the third with sub-clinical symptoms, although cognitive and radiological criteria are met. These cases are the first identified FXTAS cases in rural Indonesia. In addition with lack of routine medical follow-up, complications of FXTAS, such as hypertension may go unrecognized and untreated, which may further exacerbate the central nervous system (CNS) findings of FXTAS.}, }
@article {pmid22566539, year = {2012}, author = {Pongcharoen, T and Ramakrishnan, U and DiGirolamo, AM and Winichagoon, P and Flores, R and Singkhornard, J and Martorell, R}, title = {Influence of prenatal and postnatal growth on intellectual functioning in school-aged children.}, journal = {Archives of pediatrics &amp; adolescent medicine}, volume = {166}, number = {5}, pages = {411-416}, doi = {10.1001/archpediatrics.2011.1413}, pmid = {22566539}, issn = {1538-3628}, mesh = {Birth Weight ; Body Height ; Child ; *Child Development ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; *Growth ; Head/growth &amp; development ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Least-Squares Analysis ; Male ; Multivariate Analysis ; Thailand ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To assess the relative influence of size at birth, infant growth, and late postnatal growth on intellectual functioning at 9 years of age.<br><br>DESIGN: A follow-up, cross-sectional study.<br><br>SETTING: Three districts in Khon Kaen province, northeast Thailand.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: A total of 560 children, or 92% of former participants of a trial of iron and/or zinc supplementation during infancy.<br><br>MAIN EXPOSURES: Prenatal (size at birth), early infancy (birth to 4 months), late infancy (4 months to 1 year), and late postnatal (1 to 9 years) growth. Multiple-stage least squares analyses were used to generate uncorrelated residuals of postnatal growth.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Intellectual functioning was measured at 9 years using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children and the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (Pearson). Analyses included adjustment for maternal, household, and school characteristics.<br><br>RESULTS: Significant relationships were found between growth and IQ (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for children, third edition, Thai version), but only up to 1 year of age; overall, growth was not related to the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices. The strongest and most consistent relationships were with length (birth, early infancy, and late infancy); for weight, only early infancy gain was consistently related to IQ. Head circumference at birth was not collected routinely; head circumference at 4 months (but not head circumference growth thereafter) was related to IQ. Late postnatal growth was not associated with any outcome.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Physical growth in early infancy (and, to a lesser extent, physical growth in late infancy and at birth) is associated with IQ at 9 years of age. Early infancy may be a critical window for human development.}, }
@article {pmid22555440, year = {2012}, author = {Susman, M and Temin, RG}, title = {James F. Crow: storied teacher, leader, and colleague at the University of Wisconsin.}, journal = {Genetics}, volume = {191}, number = {1}, pages = {1-5}, pmid = {22555440}, issn = {1943-2631}, mesh = {Genetics/*history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; *Universities ; Wisconsin ; }, }
@article {pmid22553188, year = {2013}, author = {Vucicevic, M and Stevanov-Pavlovic, M and Stevanovic, J and Bosnjak, J and Gajic, B and Aleksic, N and Stanimirovic, Z}, title = {Sex determination in 58 bird species and evaluation of CHD gene as a universal molecular marker in bird sexing.}, journal = {Zoo biology}, volume = {32}, number = {3}, pages = {269-276}, doi = {10.1002/zoo.21010}, pmid = {22553188}, issn = {1098-2361}, mesh = {Animals ; *Avian Proteins/genetics ; Birds/*physiology ; DNA Primers/genetics ; *DNA-Binding Proteins/genetics ; Feathers/chemistry ; Female ; Genetic Markers/*genetics ; Introns/genetics ; Male ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Sex Determination Analysis/methods/*veterinary ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The aim of this research was to test the CHD gene (Chromo Helicase DNA-binding gene) as a universal molecular marker for sexing birds of relatively distant species. The CHD gene corresponds to the aim because of its high degree of conservation and different lengths in Z and W chromosomes due to different intron sizes. DNA was isolated from feathers and the amplification of the CHD gene was performed with the following sets of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) primers: 2550F/2718R and P2/P8. Sex determination was attempted in 284 samples of 58 bird species. It was successful in 50 bird species; in 16 of those (Alopochen aegyptiacus, Ara severus, Aratinga acuticaudata, Bucorvus leadbeateri, Cereopsis novaehollandiae, Columba arquatrix, Corvus corax, C. frugilegus, Cyanoliseus patagonus, Guttera plumifera, Lamprotornis superbus, Milvus milvus, Neophron percnopterus, Ocyphaps lophotes, Podiceps cristatus, and Poicephalus senegalus), it was carried out for the first time using molecular markers and PCR. It is reasonable to assume that extensive research is necessary to define the CHD gene as a universal molecular marker for successful sex determination in all bird species (with exception of ratites). The results of this study may largely contribute to the aim.}, }
@article {pmid22550848, year = {2012}, author = {Paholpak, S and Piyavhatkul, N and Rangseekajee, P and Krisanaprakornkit, T and Arunpongpaisal, S and Pajanasoontorn, N and Virasiri, S and Singkornard, J and Rongbudsri, S and Udomsri, C and Chonprai, C and Unprai, P}, title = {Breathing meditation by medical students at Khon Kaen University: effect on psychiatric symptoms, memory, intelligence and academic achievement.}, journal = {Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand = Chotmaihet thangphaet}, volume = {95}, number = {3}, pages = {461-469}, pmid = {22550848}, issn = {0125-2208}, mesh = {*Breathing Exercises ; Educational Status ; Humans ; Intelligence ; *Meditation ; Memory ; Stress, Psychological/*prevention &amp; control ; Students, Medical/*psychology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To examine the short-term effects on fifth-year medical students of a 4-week, breathing meditation-based, stress reduction intervention on psychiatric symptoms, memory function, intelligence, and academic achievement.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHOD: Using a randomized control trial, the meditation group practiced every 8.00 to 8.20 a.m. before beginning daily learning schedule. Meditation emphasized mindful awareness of the breath during inhaling and exhaling. The control group went about their normal activities in the other room. The psychiatric symptoms were measured using the Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90), the memory used the Wechsler Memory Scale-I (WMS-I), the intelligence used the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM), and the academic achievement used psychiatry course MCQ examination score. Analysis was done using Ancova statistic.<br><br>RESULTS: Fifty-eight volunteer medical students during their psychiatry rotation between June 2008 and May 2009, were randomized into either in the meditation (n = 30) or the control (non-meditation) (n = 28) group. There was no significant difference between the groups in their respective SCL-90, WMS-I, APM, and psychiatry course MCQ examination score.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Among normal, intelligent, mentally healthy persons, short-term breathing meditation practice will not likely change psychiatric symptoms, memory function, intellectual performance, and academic achievement.}, }
@article {pmid22545765, year = {2012}, author = {Albiach-Serrano, A and Bugnyar, T and Call, J}, title = {Apes (Gorilla gorilla, Pan paniscus, P. troglodytes, Pongo abelii) versus corvids (Corvus corax, C. corone) in a support task: the effect of pattern and functionality.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {126}, number = {4}, pages = {355-367}, doi = {10.1037/a0028050}, pmid = {22545765}, issn = {1939-2087}, mesh = {Animals ; Conditioning, Classical ; *Crows ; Cues ; Female ; Gorilla gorilla/*psychology ; Male ; Pan paniscus/*psychology ; Pan troglodytes/*psychology ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Pongo abelii/*psychology ; Problem Solving ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Apes (Gorilla gorilla, Pan paniscus, P. troglodytes, Pong abelii) and corvids (Corvus corax, C. corone) are among the most proficient and flexible tool users in the animal kingdom. Although it has been proposed that this is the result of convergent evolution, little is known about whether this is limited to behavior or also includes the underlying cognitive mechanisms. We compared several species of apes (bonobos, chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans) and corvids (carrion crows and common ravens) using exactly the same paradigm: a support task with elements from the classical patterned-string tasks. Corvids proved able to solve at least an easy pattern, whereas apes outperformed corvids with respect to the complexity of the patterns solved, the relative number of subjects solving each problem, and the speed to reach criterion. We addressed the question of whether subjects based their choices purely on perceptual cues or on a more abstract understanding of the problem. This was done by using a perceptually very similar but causally different condition where instead of paper strips there were strip shapes painted on a platform. Corvids' performance did not differ between conditions, whereas apes were able to solve the real but not the painted task. This shows that apes were not basing their choices just on spatial or arbitrary perceptual cues. Instead, and unlike corvids, they must have had some causal knowledge of the task.}, }
@article {pmid22543672, year = {2012}, author = {Silva, Rde C and Assis, AM and Hasselmann, MH and dos Santos, LM and Pinto, Ede J and Rodrigues, LC}, title = {Influence of domestic violence on the association between malnutrition and low cognitive development.}, journal = {Jornal de pediatria}, volume = {88}, number = {2}, pages = {149-154}, doi = {10.2223/JPED.2176}, pmid = {22543672}, issn = {1678-4782}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Body Mass Index ; Child ; Cognition Disorders/*complications/epidemiology ; Domestic Violence/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Epidemiologic Methods ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Malnutrition/*complications/epidemiology/pathology ; Reference Values ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To investigate the size and direction of the association between malnutrition and low cognitive performance and to evaluate the effect of domestic violence on this association.<br><br>METHODS: This cross-sectional study enrolled students of both sexes, aged 7 to 14 years old, attending public elementary schools. The Raven's Progressive Matrices Test was used to measure cognitive development, the Revised Conflict Tactics Scales (CTS2), to measure domestic violence, and the body mass index (BMI) for age and sex, to define anthropometric indices. Socioeconomic data and information about food intake were also collected. Malnutrition was defined as BMI < 3rd percentile. Cognitive deficit was defined when the results of Raven's test were &#x2264; 25th percentile. Family violence was defined as a positive answer in at least one item about severe physical violence in the last 12 months. The size of the associations of interest was expressed as prevalence ratio (PR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI).<br><br>RESULTS: Below-average intellectual development was found for 63.3% of the participants. Malnutrition was identified in 9.5%. Malnutrition had a negative effect on cognitive performance (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 1.60, 95% CI = 1.01 - 2.52; p = 0.042) when adjusted for the association between exposure to domestic violence and age.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The association between malnutrition and below-average intellectual development found in this study was affected by domestic violence, which must be taken into account when addressing the problem.}, }
@article {pmid22539894, year = {2012}, author = {Webster, RP and Sweeney, JD and Demerchant, I}, title = {New Coleoptera records for New Brunswick, Canada: Kateretidae, Nitidulidae, Cerylonidae, Endomychidae, Coccinellidae, and Latridiidae.}, journal = {ZooKeys}, volume = {}, number = {179}, pages = {193-214}, pmid = {22539894}, issn = {1313-2970}, abstract = {We report 20 new species records for the Coleoptera fauna in New Brunswick, Canada, five of which are new records for the Maritime provinces, including one species that is new for Canada. One species of Kateretidae, Kateretes pusillus (Thunberg) is newly recorded for New Brunswick and the Maritime provinces. Stelidota octomaculata (Say), Phenolia grossa (Fabricius), andCryptarcha strigatula Parsons of the family Nitidulidae are added to the faunal list of New Brunswick; the latter species is new to the Maritime provinces. Two species of Cerylonidae, Philothermus glabriculus LeConte and Cerylon unicolor (Ziegler), are reported for the first time for New Brunswick. Philothermus glabriculus is new for the Maritime provinces. Two species of Endomychidae, Hadromychus chandleri Bousquet and Leschen and Danae testacea (Ziegler) are newly recorded for New Brunswick. Three species of Coccinelidae, Stethorus punctum punctum (LeConte), Naemia seriata seriata Melsheimer, and Macronaemia episcopalis (Kirby) are added to the provincial list. Macronaemia episcopalis (Kirby) is a species new to the Maritime provinces. Nine species of Latridiidae, Cartodere nodifer (Westwood), Dienerella ruficollis (Marsham), Enicmus aterrimus Motschulsky, Enicmus fictus Fall, Encimus histrio Jay and Tomlin, Lathridius minutus (Linnaeus), Stephostethus productus Rosenhauer, Corticaria elongata (Gyllenhal), and Corticarina longipennis (LeConte) are newly recorded for New Brunswick. Stephostehus productus is newly recorded from Canada. Collection and habitat data are presented for all these species.}, }
@article {pmid22538713, year = {2012}, author = {Wascher, CA and Szipl, G and Boeckle, M and Wilkinson, A}, title = {You sound familiar: carrion crows can differentiate between the calls of known and unknown heterospecifics.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {1015-1019}, pmid = {22538713}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation ; Animal Communication ; Animals ; *Auditory Perception ; *Crows ; *Discrimination, Psychological ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Recognition, Psychology ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {In group-living animals, it is adaptive to recognize conspecifics on the basis of familiarity or group membership as it allows association with preferred social partners and avoidance of competitors. However, animals do not only associate with conspecifics but also with heterospecifics, for example in mixed-species flocks. Consequently, between-species recognition, based either on familiarity or even individual recognition, is likely to be beneficial. The extent to which animals can distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar heterospecifics is currently unclear. In the present study, we investigated the ability of eight carrion crows to differentiate between the voices and calls of familiar and unfamiliar humans and jackdaws. The crows responded significantly more often to unfamiliar than familiar human playbacks and, conversely, responded more to familiar than unfamiliar jackdaw calls. Our results provide the first evidence that birds can discriminate between familiar and unfamiliar heterospecific individuals using auditory stimuli.}, }
@article {pmid22538454, year = {2012}, author = {Chotichayapong, C and Wiengsamut, K and Chanthai, S and Sattayasai, N and Tamiya, T and Kanzawa, N and Tsuchiya, T}, title = {Isolation of heat-tolerant myoglobin from Asian swamp eel Monopterus albus.}, journal = {Fish physiology and biochemistry}, volume = {38}, number = {5}, pages = {1533-1543}, pmid = {22538454}, issn = {1573-5168}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Chemical Fractionation ; Chromatography/methods ; Eels/*metabolism ; Hot Temperature ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Muscle, Skeletal/physiology ; Myoglobin/*chemistry/*metabolism ; Protein Stability ; Spectrometry, Fluorescence ; }, abstract = {Myoglobin from Asian swamp eel Monopterus albus was purified from fish muscle using salt fractionation followed by column chromatography and molecular filtration. The purified Mb of 0.68 mg/g wet weight of muscle was determined for its molecular mass by MALDI-TOF-MS to be 15,525.18 Da. Using isoelectric focusing technique, the purified Mb showed two derivatives with pI of 6.40 and 7.12. Six peptide fragments of this protein identified by LC-MS/MS were homologous to Mbs of sea raven Hemitripterus americanus, yellowfin tuna Thunnus albacores, blue marlin Makaira nigicans, common carp Cyprinus carpio, and goldfish Carassius auratus. According to the Mb denaturation, the swamp eel Mb had thermal stability higher than walking catfish Clarias batrachus Mb and striped catfish Pangasius hypophthalmus Mb, between 30 and 60 (°)C. For the thermal stability of Mb, the swamp eel Mb showed a biphasic behavior due to the O(2) dissociation and the heme orientation disorder, with the lowest increase in both Kd(f) and Kd(s). The thermal sensitivity of swamp eel Mb was lower than those of the other Mbs for both of fast and slow reaction stages. These results suggest that the swamp eel Mb globin structure is thermally stable, which is consistent with heat-tolerant behavior of the swamp eel particularly in drought habitat.}, }
@article {pmid22537095, year = {2012}, author = {Vallat-Azouvi, C and Pradat-Diehl, P and Azouvi, P}, title = {The Working Memory Questionnaire: a scale to assess everyday life problems related to deficits of working memory in brain injured patients.}, journal = {Neuropsychological rehabilitation}, volume = {22}, number = {4}, pages = {634-649}, doi = {10.1080/09602011.2012.681110}, pmid = {22537095}, issn = {1464-0694}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Brain Injuries/complications/diagnosis/*psychology ; Educational Status ; Female ; Glasgow Coma Scale/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Glasgow Outcome Scale/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Humans ; Male ; Memory Disorders/complications/*diagnosis ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Reference Values ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Sex Characteristics ; Stroke/complications/diagnosis/*psychology ; *Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {The objective of the present study was to develop a scale designed to assess the consequences of working memory deficits in everyday life. The Working Memory Questionnaire (WMQ) is a self-administered scale, addressing three dimensions of working memory: short-term storage, attention, and executive control. The normative sample included 313 healthy participants. The patient group included 69 brain injured patients, who were compared to a subsample of 69 matched healthy controls. The questionnaire was found to have a good internal consistency, both in healthy participants and in patients with brain injury (Cronbach's alpha = .89 and .94, respectively). In healthy participants, significant effects of age (p < .0001) and education (p < .01) were found, due to more complaints in participants aged 60 or more and (unexpectedly) in those aged below 30, and for less educated participants, below high school level. The WMQ was found to have the sensitivity to discriminate patients from matched controls, in the three domains (p < .0001). A good concurrent validity was found with the Cognitive Failure Questionnaire and the Rating Scale of Attentional Behaviour (Spearman's Rho = .90 and .81, respectively, both ps < .0001). In addition, the total complaint score significantly correlated with neuropsychological measures of working memory (visual spans and short-term memory with interference) and with global intellectual efficiency (Raven's Matrices) but not with digit spans. Further studies are needed to measure the internal structure of the scale, and to compare self- and proxy-ratings.}, }
@article {pmid22529833, year = {2012}, author = {Wascher, CA and Dufour, V and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Carrion crows cannot overcome impulsive choice in a quantitative exchange task.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {3}, number = {}, pages = {118}, pmid = {22529833}, issn = {1664-1078}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, abstract = {The ability to control an immediate impulse in return for a more desirable - though delayed - outcome has long been thought to be a uniquely human feature. However, studies on non-human primates revealed that some species are capable of enduring delays in order to get food of higher quality or quantity. Recently two corvid species, common raven (Corvus corax) and carrion crow (Corvus corone corone), exchanged food for a higher quality reward though seemed less capable of enduring delays when exchanging for the same food type in a higher quantity. In the present study, we specifically investigated the ability of carrion crows to overcome an impulsive choice in a quantitative exchange task. After a short delay, individuals were asked to give back an initial reward (cheese) to the human experimenter in order to receive a higher amount of the same reward (two, four, or eight pieces). We tested six captive crows - three individuals never exchanged the initial reward for a higher quantity; the other three birds did exchange though at very low rates. We performed a preference test between one or more pieces of cheese in order to address whether crow poor performance could be due to an inability to discriminate between different quantities or not attributing a higher value to the higher quantities. All birds chose the higher quantities significantly more often, indicating that they can discriminate between quantities and that higher quantities are more desirable. Taken together, these results suggest that, although crows may possess the cognitive abilities to judge quantities and to overcome an impulsive choice, they do so only in order to optimize the qualitative but not quantitative output in the exchange paradigm.}, }
@article {pmid22522208, year = {2012}, author = {Moreira, RN and Alcântara, CE and Mota-Veloso, I and Marinho, SA and Ramos-Jorge, ML and Oliveira-Ferreira, F}, title = {Does intellectual disability affect the development of dental caries in patients with cerebral palsy?.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {33}, number = {5}, pages = {1503-1507}, doi = {10.1016/j.ridd.2012.03.026}, pmid = {22522208}, issn = {1873-3379}, mesh = {Brazil/epidemiology ; Cerebral Palsy/*epidemiology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Dental Caries/*epidemiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*epidemiology ; Logistic Models ; Male ; Motor Skills Disorders/*epidemiology ; Multivariate Analysis ; Risk Factors ; Severity of Illness Index ; Social Class ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to evaluate if the severity of intellectual disability is a factor that affects the development of dental cavities in patients with cerebral palsy. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 165 individuals who were selected from a physical rehabilitation center, a special public school and a regular public school. Of these, 76 individuals had been diagnosed with spastic cerebral palsy and 89 had no neurological impairment. The subjects were matched based on age and gender and selected randomly by lottery. All patients were examined to determine the number of dental cavities, and tested for their intellectual functioning (Raven Test) and motor abilities. The study showed that children with CP who presented with intellectual disabilities had a larger number of dental cavities than children with CP without intellectual disabilities. Considering intellectual functioning and motor impairment in the multivariate logistic regression, only intellectual functioning was found to have a significant effect on the development of dental cavities. These results suggest that intellectual disability can be considered a contributing factor for the development of dental caries in patients with cerebral palsy.}, }
@article {pmid22521788, year = {2012}, author = {Boeckle, M and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Long-term memory for affiliates in ravens.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {22}, number = {9}, pages = {801-806}, pmid = {22521788}, issn = {1879-0445}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; *Memory, Long-Term ; }, abstract = {Complex social life requires individuals to recognize and remember group members and, within those, to distinguish affiliates from nonaffiliates. Whereas long-term individual recognition has been demonstrated in some nonhuman animals, memory for the relationship valence to former group members has received little attention. Here we show that adult, pair-housed ravens not only respond differently to the playback of calls from previous group members and unfamiliar conspecifics but also discriminate between familiar birds according to the relationship valence they had to those subjects up to three years ago as subadult nonbreeders. The birds' distinction between familiar and unfamiliar individuals is reflected mainly in the number of calls, whereas their differentiation according to relationship valence is reflected in call modulation only. As compared to their response to affiliates, ravens responded to nonaffiliates by increasing chaotic parts of the vocalization and lowering formant spacing, potentially exaggerating the perceived impression of body size. Our findings indicate that ravens remember relationship qualities to former group members even after long periods of separation, confirming that their sophisticated social knowledge as nonbreeders is maintained into the territorial breeding stage.}, }
@article {pmid22513637, year = {2012}, author = {Liu, HC and Yariv, A}, title = {Designing coupled-resonator optical waveguides based on high-Q tapered grating-defect resonators.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {20}, number = {8}, pages = {9249-9263}, doi = {10.1364/OE.20.009249}, pmid = {22513637}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {We present a systematic design of coupled-resonator optical waveguides (CROWs) based on high-Q tapered grating-defect resonators. The formalism is based on coupled-mode theory where forward and backward waveguide modes are coupled by the grating. Although applied to strong gratings (periodic air holes in single-mode silicon-on-insulator waveguides), coupled-mode theory is shown to be valid, since the spatial Fourier transform of the resonant mode is engineered to minimize the coupling to radiation modes and thus the propagation loss. We demonstrate the numerical characterization of strong gratings, the design of high-Q tapered grating-defect resonators (Q>2 × 10[6], modal volume = 0.38·(λ/n)[3]), and the control of inter-resonator coupling for CROWs. Furthermore, we design Butterworth and Bessel filters by tailoring the numbers of holes between adjacent defects. We show with numerical simulation that Butterworth CROWs are more tolerant against fabrication disorder than CROWs with uniform coupling coefficient.}, }
@article {pmid22511972, year = {2012}, author = {Schwab, C and Swoboda, R and Kotrschal, K and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Recipients affect prosocial and altruistic choices in jackdaws, Corvus monedula.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {7}, number = {4}, pages = {e34922}, pmid = {22511972}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {*Altruism ; Animals ; *Choice Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Other-regarding preferences are a critical feature of human cooperation but to what extent non-human animals exhibit these preferences is a matter of intense discussion. We tested whether jackdaws show prosocial behaviour (providing benefits to others at no cost to themselves) and altruism (providing benefits to others while incurring costs) with both sibling and non-sibling recipients. In the prosocial condition, a box was baited on both the actor's and the recipient's side (1/1 option), whereas another box provided food only for the actor (1/0 option). In the altruistic condition, the boxes contained food for either the actor (1/0 option) or the recipient (0/1 option). The proportion of selfish (1/0 option) and cooperative (1/1 and 0/1 option, respectively) actors' choices was significantly affected by the recipients' behaviour. If recipients approached the boxes first and positioned themselves next to the box baited on their side, trying to access the food reward (recipient-first trials), actors were significantly more cooperative than when the actors approached the boxes first and made their choice prior to the recipients' arrival (actor-first trials). Further, in recipient-first trials actors were more cooperative towards recipients of the opposite sex, an effect that was even more pronounced in the altruistic condition. Hence, at no cost to the actors, all recipients could significantly influence the actors' behaviour, whereas at high costs this could be achieved even more so by recipients of different sex. Local/stimulus enhancement is discussed as the most likely cognitive mechanism to account for these effects.}, }
@article {pmid22510257, year = {2012}, author = {Mustafa, N and Ahearn, TS and Waiter, GD and Murray, AD and Whalley, LJ and Staff, RT}, title = {Brain structural complexity and life course cognitive change.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {61}, number = {3}, pages = {694-701}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroimage.2012.03.088}, pmid = {22510257}, issn = {1095-9572}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; //Chief Scientist Office/United Kingdom ; //Department of Health/United Kingdom ; //Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aging/physiology ; Algorithms ; Brain/anatomy &amp; histology/*growth &amp; development/*physiology ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cohort Studies ; Databases, Factual ; Educational Status ; Female ; *Fractals ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Individuality ; Intelligence/physiology ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Scotland ; Sex Characteristics ; }, abstract = {Fractal measures such as fractal dimension (FD) can quantify the structural complexity of the brain. These have been used in clinical neuroscience to investigate brain development, ageing and in studies of psychiatric and neurological disorders. Here, we examined associations between the FD of white matter and cognitive changes across the life course in the absence of detectable brain disease. The FD was calculated from segmented cerebral white matter MR images in 217 subjects aged about 68years, in whom archived intelligence scores from age 11years were available. Cognitive test scores of fluid and crystallised intelligence were obtained at the time of MR imaging. Significant differences were found (intracranial volume, brain volume, white matter volume and Raven's Progressive Matrices score) between men and women at age 68years and novel associations were found between FD and measures of cognitive change over the life course from age 11 to 68years. Those with greater FD were found to have greater than expected fluid abilities at age 68years than predicted by their childhood intelligence and less cognitive decline from age 11 to 68years. These results are consistent with other reports that FD measures of cortical structural complexity increase across the early life course during maturation of the cerebral cortex and add new data to support an association between FD and cognitive ageing.}, }
@article {pmid22506964, year = {2012}, author = {Derégnaucourt, S and Saar, S and Gahr, M}, title = {Melatonin affects the temporal pattern of vocal signatures in birds.}, journal = {Journal of pineal research}, volume = {53}, number = {3}, pages = {245-258}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-079X.2012.00993.x}, pmid = {22506964}, issn = {1600-079X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Coturnix ; Female ; *Finches ; Learning ; Male ; Melatonin/*pharmacology ; *Photoperiod ; Pineal Gland/*physiology ; Social Isolation ; Time Factors ; Vocalization, Animal/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {In humans and other animals, melatonin is involved in the control of circadian biological rhythms. Here, we show that melatonin affects the temporal pattern of behavioral sequences in a noncircadian manner. The zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata) song and the crow of the Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) are courtship vocalizations composed of a stereotyped sequence of syllables. The zebra finch song is learned from conspecifics during infancy, whereas the Japanese quail crow develops normally without auditory input. We recorded and analyzed the complete vocal activity of adult birds of both species kept in social isolation for several weeks. In both species, we observed a shortening of signal duration following the transfer from a light-dark (LD) cycle to constant light (LL), a condition known to abolish melatonin production and to disrupt circadian rhythmicity. This effect was reversible because signal duration increased when the photoperiod was returned to the previous LD schedule. We then tested whether this effect was directly related to melatonin by removal of the pineal gland, which is the main production site of circulating melatonin. A shortening of the song duration was observed following pinealectomy in LD. Likewise, melatonin treatment induced changes in the temporal structure of the song. In a song learning experiment, young pinealectomized finches and young finches raised in LL failed to copy the temporal pattern of their tutor's song. Taken together, these results suggest that melatonin is involved in the control of motor timing of noncircadian behavioral sequences through an evolutionary conserved neuroendocrine pathway.}, }
@article {pmid22506801, year = {2012}, author = {Poljsak, B and Godic, A and Lampe, T and Dahmane, R}, title = {The influence of the sleeping on the formation of facial wrinkles.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {133-138}, doi = {10.3109/14764172.2012.685563}, pmid = {22506801}, issn = {1476-4180}, mesh = {Adult ; Bedding and Linens/*adverse effects ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Equipment Design ; Face ; Facial Muscles ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Pressure ; *Skin Aging ; *Sleep ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The study addressed the influence of sleep as an important but overlooked contributory factor to the formation and progression of facial wrinkles and an alternative pillow was designed to reduce them.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifteen healthy young participants of both sexes (aged 26-42 years) volunteered for this study. We used a transparent PVC pillow filled with air to demonstrate mechanical forces and deformations of the face as a consequence of sleeping on a pillow. We used a Podometer (PDMTR) (integrated fluorescent luminaire lamp) as a diagnostic device to visualize and to document the imprint of facial deformities on a glass, as seen during sleeping.<br><br>RESULTS: We observed various facial deformities and wrinkles during sleep ('crow's feet' fine lines, lines around the mouth, flattening of the forehead, blunting of the nasofrontal angle, melolabial and nasolabial folds) and design an alternative pillow to reduce them by redistributing the pressure from the wrinkling parts of the face.}, }
@article {pmid22505836, year = {2012}, author = {Otto, PA}, title = {In memory of James F. Crow (1916-2012), a life dedicated to population genetics; with an updated list of his publications.}, journal = {Genetics and molecular biology}, volume = {35}, number = {1}, pages = {200-201}, doi = {10.1590/s1415-47572012000100028}, pmid = {22505836}, issn = {1678-4685}, }
@article {pmid22503357, year = {2012}, author = {Theleritis, C and Vitoratou, S and Smyrnis, N and Evdokimidis, I and Constantinidis, T and Stefanis, NC}, title = {Neurological soft signs and psychometrically identified schizotypy in a sample of young conscripts.}, journal = {Psychiatry research}, volume = {198}, number = {2}, pages = {241-247}, doi = {10.1016/j.psychres.2012.03.007}, pmid = {22503357}, issn = {1872-7123}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Military Personnel/*psychology ; Neurologic Examination/methods/*psychology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychometrics/methods ; Schizotypal Personality Disorder/complications/*diagnosis ; Time Factors ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {There is growing interest in the connection between neurological soft signs (NSS) and schizophrenia spectrum disorders such as schizotypal personality disorder. The association between NSS and schizotypy was investigated in a subgroup of 169 young healthy male military conscripts included in the Athens Study of Psychosis Proneness and Incidence of Schizophrenia. During their first 2 weeks in the National Basic Air Force Training Centre (T(1)-first assessment), subjects completed the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire (SPQ), the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R), and the Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM). Then, 2 years later (T(2)-second assessment), at the time of military discharge, they were tested for NSS with the Neurological Evaluation Scale (NES) and reevaluated with the SPQ, the SCL-90-R and additionally the Structured Clinical Interview for Personality Disorders (SCID-II) for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Third Edition, Revised (DSM-III-R). NSS were more prominent in conscripts with high schizotypy; scores on Sequencing of Complex Motor Acts (SCMA) and the "Other Soft Signs" (OSS) subscales were correlated with high schizotypy at both T(1) and T(2). Increased levels of SCMA as well as the total NSS score were correlated at both T(1) and T(2) with the interpersonal SPQ factor (reflecting negative schizotypy). The findings support the proposal that negative schizotypy might be associated with subtle neurodevelopmental abnormalities.}, }
@article {pmid22497179, year = {2012}, author = {Yu, L and Zhao, ZJ and Wang, JQ}, title = {[A new procedure to correct the crow's feet by covering the orbicularis oculi muscles with the superficial temporal fascia flap in rhytidectomy].}, journal = {Zhonghua zheng xing wai ke za zhi = Zhonghua zhengxing waike zazhi = Chinese journal of plastic surgery}, volume = {28}, number = {1}, pages = {6-8}, pmid = {22497179}, issn = {1009-4598}, mesh = {Adult ; Eyelids/surgery ; Facial Muscles/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; *Skin Aging ; Subcutaneous Tissue/*transplantation ; Surgical Flaps ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To explore an ideal procedure with more lasting aesthetic results by covering the orbicularis oculi muscles with the superficial temporal fascia flap in rhytidectomy, which can help to correct the crow's feet successfully.<br><br>METHODS: During rhytidectomy, dissection was performed subcutaneously and also under pericranium and superficial temporal fascia at temporal area. Then the superficial temporal fascia flap was formed by cutting between pericranium and superficial temporal fascia. The fascia flap was reversed to cover the lateral orbicularis oculi muscle with fixation.<br><br>RESULTS: From May 2004 to May 2010, 18 cases were treated with a follow-up period of 6-12 months. The crow's feet was corrected better with long lasting results, compared with conventional rhytidectomy. No complication happened.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The crow's feet can be corrected markedly with long lasting results by covering the orbicularis oculi muscles with the superficial temporal fascia flap in rhytidectomy.}, }
@article {pmid22471230, year = {2011}, author = {Bandhu, R and Shankar, N and Tandon, OP and Madan, N}, title = {Event related potentials in anemic school--going girls of age group 8 to 10 years.}, journal = {Indian journal of physiology and pharmacology}, volume = {55}, number = {3}, pages = {234-240}, pmid = {22471230}, issn = {0019-5499}, mesh = {Anemia/*physiopathology ; Anemia, Iron-Deficiency/physiopathology ; Child ; Electroencephalography ; *Event-Related Potentials, P300 ; Female ; Hematocrit ; Hemoglobins/analysis ; Humans ; }, abstract = {In the present study the effects of anemia on cognitive functions were studied in school going girls aged 8-10 years. The cognitive functions were assessed by Event Related Potentials (P300) and by the psychometric tests, i.e., Raven's progressive matrices test and Digit span attention test. The girls with Hb < 12 g/dl were classified into anemic and Hb > 12 g/dl into control group. Hematological values of the control group were significantly better than anemic group. P300 latency in the anemic girls was delayed as compared to control group but, no statistically significant difference was observed for P300 latency and P300 amplitude between the control group and the anemic group. The psychometric test scores for intelligence quotient and transformed quotient were also better but not statistically significant in control group of girls as compared to anemic girls. However, the hematocrit values showed a significant correlation with the P300 wave latency showing that the hematological status is associated with some effects on cognition.}, }
@article {pmid22459870, year = {2012}, author = {Walker, BM and Valdez, GR and McLaughlin, JP and Bakalkin, G}, title = {Targeting dynorphin/kappa opioid receptor systems to treat alcohol abuse and dependence.}, journal = {Alcohol (Fayetteville, N.Y.)}, volume = {46}, number = {4}, pages = {359-370}, pmid = {22459870}, issn = {1873-6823}, support = {R13 AA017581/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; R01AA020394/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AA020394-01/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; R13AA017581/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; R28 AA012725/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DA023924/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; R15 AA018213/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; R15AA018213/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AA020394-02/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AA020394-03/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AA020394/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Alcoholism/drug therapy/*physiopathology/psychology ; Amygdala/*drug effects/physiopathology ; Animals ; Disease Models, Animal ; Dynorphins/pharmacology/physiology/therapeutic use ; Ethanol/*pharmacology ; Humans ; Neurotransmitter Agents/pharmacology/physiology/therapeutic use ; Receptors, Opioid, kappa/agonists/*physiology ; Stress, Psychological/*complications ; Substance Withdrawal Syndrome/*drug therapy/physiopathology ; }, abstract = {This review represents the focus of a symposium that was presented at the "Alcoholism and Stress: A Framework for Future Treatment Strategies" conference in Volterra, Italy on May 3-6, 2011 and organized/chaired by Dr. Brendan M. Walker. The primary goal of the symposium was to evaluate and disseminate contemporary findings regarding the emerging role of kappa-opioid receptors (KORs) and their endogenous ligands dynorphins (DYNs) in the regulation of escalated alcohol consumption, negative affect and cognitive dysfunction associated with alcohol dependence, as well as DYN/KOR mediation of the effects of chronic stress on alcohol reward and seeking behaviors. Dr. Glenn Valdez described a role for KORs in the anxiogenic effects of alcohol withdrawal. Dr. Jay McLaughlin focused on the role of KORs in repeated stress-induced potentiation of alcohol reward and increased alcohol consumption. Dr. Brendan Walker presented data characterizing the effects of KOR antagonism within the extended amygdala on withdrawal-induced escalation of alcohol self-administration in dependent animals. Dr. Georgy Bakalkin concluded with data indicative of altered DYNs and KORs in the prefrontal cortex of alcohol dependent humans that could underlie diminished cognitive performance. Collectively, the data presented within this symposium identified the multifaceted contribution of KORs to the characteristics of acute and chronic alcohol-induced behavioral dysregulation and provided a foundation for the development of pharmacotherapeutic strategies to treat certain aspects of alcohol use disorders.}, }
@article {pmid22449036, year = {2012}, author = {Chiesi, F and Ciancaleoni, M and Galli, S and Primi, C}, title = {Using the Advanced Progressive Matrices (Set I) to assess fluid ability in a short time frame: an item response theory-based analysis.}, journal = {Psychological assessment}, volume = {24}, number = {4}, pages = {892-900}, doi = {10.1037/a0027830}, pmid = {22449036}, issn = {1939-134X}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests/*standards ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests/*standards ; Psychometrics/instrumentation ; Reproducibility of Results ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {This article is aimed at evaluating the possibility that Set I of the Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM-Set I) can be employed to assess fluid ability in a short time frame. The APM-Set I was administered to a sample of 1,389 primary and secondary school students. Confirmatory factor analysis attested to the unidimensionality of the scale. Item response theory analyses were applied to investigate the increasing level of item difficulty, test information function, and differential item functioning across gender and age. Additionally, validity measures are reported. Results provide evidence that the APM-Set I can be used as a reliable and valid short form of the Raven's Progressive Matrices in the assessment of fluid ability.}, }
@article {pmid22437450, year = {2012}, author = {Pfuhl, G}, title = {Two strings to choose from: do ravens pull the easier one?.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {549-557}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-012-0483-0}, pmid = {22437450}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Choice Behavior ; Concept Formation ; *Crows ; Cues ; Female ; Judgment ; Male ; }, abstract = {There are simple co-occurrences as well as functional relationships between events. One may assume that animals detect and use causation rather than mere co-variation. However, understanding causation often requires concepts of hidden forces. In string pulling, obstacles may hamper the access to food. Here, I studied whether ravens have an abstract concept of effort. First, in a competitive situation, ravens (Corvus corax) could choose one out of two strings. The strings differed in whether they were baited with meat and in how far away the meat was. Ravens pulled mainly the string containing meat and where the meat was nearer to the perch, respectively. Second, ravens could choose between two strings that had either a functional obstacle or a non-functional obstacle. Optimal performance required the integration of at least two cues: object and height. In 5 ravens, the model that best matched behaviour took into account only that meat was on a string, ignoring the obstacle. However, 2 ravens' performance was best explained by a model that took into account both an object's identity (meat or wood) and its height on the string. Third, one string out of two was loaded with a heavy meat piece. In this overloaded string condition, 5 out of 7 ravens did not try to pull the heavy meat piece but went straight for pulling the smaller piece. The pattern of results indicated that ravens can judge the effort required to pull a string.}, }
@article {pmid22435167, year = {2011}, author = {Khalil, MF and Shoukry, NM and Morsy, TA}, title = {Corvus R. ruficollis (desert or brown necked raven): a reservoir host for zoonotic parasites in Egypt.}, journal = {Journal of the Egyptian Society of Parasitology}, volume = {41}, number = {3}, pages = {753-764}, pmid = {22435167}, issn = {1110-0583}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology ; *Crows ; *Disease Reservoirs ; Egypt/epidemiology ; Feces/parasitology ; Humans ; Parasitic Diseases, Animal/epidemiology/*parasitology/transmission ; *Zoonoses ; }, abstract = {Egypt includes many desert and rural areas. The small uptown fertile areas are placed under illegal enormous pressure of existing resources, where intensive agricultural practices are performed in combination with high population densities. The brown necked ravens (Corvus ruficollis) are attracted in huge numbers to such areas. The birds are omnivorous, very aggressive pest and seriously affect human welfare. The study focused on zoonotic role of ravens.}, }
@article {pmid22428137, year = {2012}, author = {Tominaga, K and Hongo, N and Karato, M and Yamashita, E}, title = {Cosmetic benefits of astaxanthin on humans subjects.}, journal = {Acta biochimica Polonica}, volume = {59}, number = {1}, pages = {43-47}, pmid = {22428137}, issn = {1734-154X}, mesh = {Adult ; Cosmetics/*pharmacology ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Skin/drug effects ; Skin Aging/drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; Xanthophylls/pharmacology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Two human clinical studies were performed. One was an open-label non-controlled study involving 30 healthy female subjects for 8 weeks. Significant improvements were observed by combining 6 mg per day oral supplementation and 2 ml (78.9 μM solution) per day topical application of astaxanthin. Astaxanthin derived from the microalgae, Haematococcus pluvialis showed improvements in skin wrinkle (crow's feet at week-8), age spot size (cheek at week-8), elasticity (crow's feet at week-8), skin texture (cheek at week-4), moisture content of corneocyte layer (cheek in 10 dry skin subjects at week-8) and corneocyte condition (cheek at week-8). It may suggest that astaxanthin derived from H. pluvialis can improve skin condition in all layers such as corneocyte layer, epidermis, basal layer and dermis by combining oral supplementation and topical treatment. Another was a randomized double-blind placebo controlled study involving 36 healthy male subjects for 6 weeks. Crow's feet wrinkle and elasticity; and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) were improved after 6 mg of astaxanthin (the same as former study) daily supplementation. Moisture content and sebum oil level at the cheek zone showed strong tendencies for improvement. These results suggest that astaxanthin derived from Haematococcus pluvialis may improve the skin condition in not only in women but also in men.}, }
@article {pmid22426354, year = {2012}, author = {Li, P and Zhang, G and You, HY and Zheng, R and Gao, YQ}, title = {Training-dependent cognitive advantage is suppressed at high altitude.}, journal = {Physiology &amp; behavior}, volume = {106}, number = {4}, pages = {439-445}, doi = {10.1016/j.physbeh.2012.03.002}, pmid = {22426354}, issn = {1873-507X}, mesh = {Adult ; *Altitude ; Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor/metabolism ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cytokines/metabolism ; Heart Rate/physiology ; Humans ; Hypoxia/psychology ; Interleukin-1beta/blood ; Male ; Military Personnel ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Oxyhemoglobins/metabolism ; Physical Fitness/*physiology/*psychology ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; Reaction Time/physiology ; Sleep/physiology ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/blood ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Ascent to high altitude is associated with decreases in cognitive function and work performance as a result of hypoxia. Some workers with special jobs typically undergo intensive mental training because they are expected to be agile, stable and error-free in their job performance. The purpose of this study was to determine the risk to cognitive function acquired from training following hypoxic exposure. The results of WHO neurobehavioral core tests battery (WHO-NCTB) and Raven's standard progressive matrices (RSPM) tests of a group of 54 highly trained military operators were compared with those of 51 non-trained ordinary people and were investigated at sea level and on the fifth day after arrival at high altitudes (3900m). Meanwhile, the plasma levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were examined. The result showed that at sea level, the trained group exhibited significantly better performance on neurobehavioral and RSPM tests. At high altitude, both groups had decreased accuracy in most cognitive tests and took longer to finish them. More importantly, the highly trained subjects showed more substantial declines than the non-trained subjects in visual reaction accuracy, auditory reaction speed, digit symbol scores, ability to report correct dots in a pursuit aiming test and total RSPM scores. This means that the training-dependent cognitive advantages in these areas were suppressed at high altitudes. The above phenomenon maybe associated with decreased BDNF and elevated inflammatory factor during hypoxia, and other mechanisms could not be excluded.}, }
@article {pmid22423433, year = {2012}, author = {Aisenstein, M}, title = {Paternal identification in women: a dialogue between Jay Greenberg and Marilia Aisenstein.}, journal = {The Psychoanalytic quarterly}, volume = {81}, number = {1}, pages = {39-51}, doi = {10.1002/j.2167-4086.2012.tb00484.x}, pmid = {22423433}, issn = {0033-2828}, mesh = {Fathers/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; *Identification, Psychological ; *Oedipus Complex ; }, }
@article {pmid22418860, year = {2012}, author = {Rutz, C and Ryder, TB and Fleischer, RC}, title = {Restricted gene flow and fine-scale population structuring in tool using New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Die Naturwissenschaften}, volume = {99}, number = {4}, pages = {313-320}, pmid = {22418860}, issn = {1432-1904}, support = {BB/G023913/1//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cluster Analysis ; Crows/classification/*genetics/*physiology ; Ecosystem ; *Gene Flow ; Genetic Variation ; Haplotypes ; Microsatellite Repeats/genetics ; New Caledonia ; Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian crows Corvus moneduloides are the most prolific avian tool users. It has been suggested that some aspects of their complex tool use behaviour are under the influence of cultural processes, involving the social transmission-and perhaps even progressive refinement-of tool designs. Using microsatellite and mt-haplotype profiling of crows from three distinct habitats (dry forest, farmland and beachside habitat), we show that New Caledonian crow populations can exhibit significant fine-scale genetic structuring. Our finding that some sites of <10 km apart were highly differentiated demonstrates considerable potential for genetic and/or cultural isolation of crow groups. Restricted movement of birds between local populations at such small spatial scales, especially across habitat boundaries, illustrates how specific tool designs could be preserved over time, and how tool technologies of different crow groups could diverge due to drift and local selection pressures. Young New Caledonian crows have an unusually long juvenile dependency period, during which they acquire complex tool-related foraging skills. We suggest that the resulting delayed natal dispersal drives population-divergence patterns in this species. Our work provides essential context for future studies that examine the genetic makeup of crow populations across larger geographic areas, including localities with suspected cultural differences in crow tool technologies.}, }
@article {pmid22405675, year = {2012}, author = {von Rhein, M and Dimitropoulos, A and Valsangiacomo Buechel, ER and Landolt, MA and Latal, B}, title = {Risk factors for neurodevelopmental impairments in school-age children after cardiac surgery with full-flow cardiopulmonary bypass.}, journal = {The Journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery}, volume = {144}, number = {3}, pages = {577-583}, doi = {10.1016/j.jtcvs.2012.02.005}, pmid = {22405675}, issn = {1097-685X}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Cardiac Surgical Procedures/*adverse effects ; Cardiopulmonary Bypass/*adverse effects ; Cerebral Palsy/etiology/physiopathology/psychology ; Child ; *Child Development ; Developmental Disabilities/diagnosis/*etiology/physiopathology/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Linear Models ; Logistic Models ; Male ; Motor Activity ; Nervous System/*growth &amp; development ; Nervous System Diseases/diagnosis/*etiology/physiopathology/psychology ; Neurologic Examination ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Postural Balance ; Risk Assessment ; Risk Factors ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Switzerland ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine the risk factors for adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in school-age children after full flow open-heart surgery for congenital heart disease.<br><br>METHODS: The outcome was assessed in 117 children without a genetic comorbidity at a mean age of 10.4 &#xb1; 2.5 years. Intelligence was assessed using the Raven's Progressive Matrices and neuromotor function using the Zurich Neuromotor Assessment. Risk factors were retrieved from detailed chart review.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean intelligence score was 89 &#xb1; 16, significantly lower than the norm (P < .001). Cerebral palsy was diagnosed in 10% of patients. Poor neuromotor performance (less than p10) was present in 15% to 20% of the children, depending on the motor task (all P < .001). Pure motor and static balance performance was also significantly impaired when patients with cerebral palsy were excluded (P < .01). Intelligence was only related to socioeconomic status (P = .006), and neuromotor outcome was related to the length of hospital stay and postoperative neurologic abnormalities (P < .03). The extracorporeal circulation time was related to adaptive fine motor performance (P = .05). All other variables were not related to outcome.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Children without a genetic comorbidity are at risk of long-term intellectual and motor impairments also after full-flow cardiac repair. Surgery-related parameters play a less important role for adverse outcomes than postoperative complications. Our findings stress the importance of specialized follow-up assessments for all children with CHD undergoing open heart surgery.}, }
@article {pmid22401959, year = {2012}, author = {Kapogiannis, D and Kisser, J and Davatzikos, C and Ferrucci, L and Metter, J and Resnick, SM}, title = {Alcohol consumption and premotor corpus callosum in older adults.}, journal = {European neuropsychopharmacology : the journal of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology}, volume = {22}, number = {10}, pages = {704-710}, pmid = {22401959}, issn = {1873-7862}, support = {Z99 AG999999/ImNIH/Intramural NIH HHS/United States ; ZIA AG000191/ImNIH/Intramural NIH HHS/United States ; ZIA AG000975-03/ImNIH/Intramural NIH HHS/United States ; R99 AG999999/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; ZIA AG000191-15/ImNIH/Intramural NIH HHS/United States ; ZIA AG000966-04/ImNIH/Intramural NIH HHS/United States ; N01-AG-3-2124/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aged ; *Aging ; Alcohol Drinking/*adverse effects/*pathology ; Alcohol-Related Disorders/*pathology/physiopathology ; Baltimore ; Cohort Studies ; Corpus Callosum/*pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; Longitudinal Studies ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuroimaging ; Organ Size ; Organ Specificity ; Self Report ; Severity of Illness Index ; Sex Characteristics ; }, abstract = {Heavy alcohol consumption is toxic to the brain, especially to the frontal white matter (WM), but whether lesser amounts of alcohol negatively impact the brain WM is unclear. In this study, we examined the relationship between self-reported alcohol consumption and regional WM and grey matter (GM) volume in fifty-six men and thirty-seven women (70+- 7years) cognitively intact participants of the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA) with no history of alcohol abuse. We used regional analysis of volumes examined in normalized space (RAVENS) maps methodology for WM and GM segmentation and normalization followed by voxel based morphometry (VBM) implemented in SPM8 to examine the cross-sectional association between alcohol consumption and regional WM (and, separately, GM) volume controlling for age, sex, smoking, blood pressure and dietary thiamine intake. WM VBM revealed that in men, but not in women, higher alcohol consumption was associated with lower volume in premotor frontal corpus callosum. This finding suggests that even moderate amounts of alcohol may be detrimental to corpus callosum and white matter integrity.}, }
@article {pmid22401836, year = {2012}, author = {Islam, MN and Tsukahara, N and Sugita, S}, title = {Apoptosis-mediated seasonal testicular regression in the Japanese Jungle Crow (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Theriogenology}, volume = {77}, number = {9}, pages = {1854-1865}, doi = {10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.01.002}, pmid = {22401836}, issn = {1879-3231}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Zoo ; Apoptosis/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Japan ; Male ; Reproduction/physiology ; *Seasons ; Testis/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The present study investigated effects of apoptosis observed during seasonal testicular regression in Japanese Jungle Crows. The study was conducted during January to June 2008, 2009. Testes from adults captured during non-breeding (January), prebreeding (February to mid-March), main-breeding (late March to early May), transition (mid-May to late May), and post-breeding (June) seasons were analyzed. Apoptosis was assessed by in situ terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labeling (TUNEL) assay. Paired-testis volume increased 95-fold from the non-breeding to the main-breeding season (P < 0.05), and subsequently decreased 26-fold from the main breeding to the post-breeding season (P < 0.05). Testicular activity was evaluated from the total germ cell count and sperm index, which increased 42- and 5-fold, respectively, in the main-breeding season, and subsequently decreased 33- and 5-fold in the post-breeding season. In testes, TUNEL-positive germ cells were at low levels in the non-breeding season, absent in the prebreeding and the main-breeding seasons, and highest in mid-May (P < 0.05). In contrast, TUNEL-positive Sertoli cells occurred only in late-April. In addition, TUNEL-positive fibroblast-like cells were observed in the outer zone of the tunica albuginea in the post-breeding season. Collectively, these data suggested that the seasonal rise in the testicular competence occurred slowly in Japanese Jungle Crows; however, testis function was terminated rapidly after the breeding season. Furthermore, we concluded, similar to other avian species, Sertoli cell apoptosis followed by massive germ cell death was responsible for rapid testicular regression in Jungle Crows.}, }
@article {pmid22401682, year = {2012}, author = {Petit, A and Lemarchand-Venencie, F and Pinquier, L and Lebbe, C and Bourrat, E}, title = {[Nevoid acanthosis nigricans or RAVEN (rounded and velvety epidermal nevus): three cases].}, journal = {Annales de dermatologie et de venereologie}, volume = {139}, number = {3}, pages = {183-188}, doi = {10.1016/j.annder.2011.10.411}, pmid = {22401682}, issn = {0151-9638}, mesh = {Acanthosis Nigricans/*genetics/*pathology ; Adolescent ; Adult ; Biopsy ; Child ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mosaicism ; Mutagenesis/genetics ; Nevus, Sebaceous of Jadassohn/*genetics/*pathology ; Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 3/*genetics ; Skin/pathology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: We report three cases of a peculiar rash with mixed clinical features of both epidermal nevus and acanthosis nigricans. Their characteristics have been compared to those of very rare but similar cases found in the medical literature.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: Two young adults (one male, one female) and a 7-year-old boy consulted for hyperchromic asymptomatic plaques located respectively on the right scapula, the left upper arm and the right frontotemporal area of the face. None had any noticeable familial medical history. None were overweight or had a personal history of diabetes or endocrine dysfunction. The plaques had appeared soon after puberty in the adults and at the age of 4 years in the child and they had remained stable for years. They were polycyclic in shape, sharply demarcated, and with a linear distribution. Their surface was slightly papular, with a velvety appearance and texture. No other skin or mucous membrane lesions were observed elsewhere. The physical examination was otherwise normal. Skin biopsy specimens showed mild acanthosis with papillomatosis, hyperorthokeratosis with elongated rete ridges and slight thinning of the roof of the dermal papilla.<br><br>DISCUSSION: The striking clinical features of this rash rule out confusion with any other epidermal nevus (because of age of onset, shape and texture) or with acanthosis nigricans (because of its topography and the lack of associated neoplastic or endocrine disease). A dozen similar case reports can be found in the medical literature, mostly under the term "nevoid acanthosis nigricans". Such a rash may be linked to postzygotic mosaicism with the same mutations of the FGFR3 gene. However, since the physiopathology of this rash remains hypothetical, we propose to name it "RAVEN", for "rounded and velvety epidermal nevus", which is simply a descriptive acronym and nothing more.}, }
@article {pmid22400484, year = {2011}, author = {Hillyer, R}, title = {Relies of reconciliation: the Confederate Museum and Civil War memory in the New South.}, journal = {The Public historian}, volume = {33}, number = {4}, pages = {35-62}, doi = {10.1525/tph.2011.33.4.35}, pmid = {22400484}, issn = {0272-3433}, mesh = {*American Civil War ; Confederate States of America ; Female ; History, 19th Century ; Humans ; Military Personnel/*history ; Museums/*history ; Social Problems/*history ; Southeastern United States ; Virginia ; }, abstract = {This article examines the Confederate Memorial Literary Society (CMLS), an organization of elite white women in Richmond, Virginia who founded the Confederate Museum in the 1890s. Faced with the plunder of Civil War relics and cultural homogenization on northern terms, the CMLS founded the Confederate Museum to document and defend the Confederate cause and to uphold the antebellum mores that the New South's business ethos threatened to erode. In the end, however, the museum's version of the Lost Cause served the New South. By focusing on military sacrifice, the Confederate Museum aided the process of sectional reconciliation. By depicting slavery as benevolent, the museum's exhibits reinforced the notion that Jim Crow was a just and effective means of managing postwar southern society. Lastly, by glorifying the common soldier and portraying the South as "solid," the museum promoted obedience to the mandates of industrial capitalism. Thus, the Confederate Museum both critiqued and eased the economic transformations of the New South.}, }
@article {pmid22397231, year = {2011}, author = {Bala, G and Katić, R and Krneta, Z}, title = {Do kinesiologic activities change aberrant behavior in preschool children?.}, journal = {Collegium antropologicum}, volume = {35}, number = {4}, pages = {1007-1015}, pmid = {22397231}, issn = {0350-6134}, mesh = {Child ; Child Behavior Disorders/*prevention &amp; control ; Child, Preschool ; *Exercise ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Motor Skills ; }, abstract = {An experimental treatment was carried out in a sample of 117 preschool children by applying kinesiologic activities. The treatment lasting for 60 minutes was applied for a period of 9 months, twice a week. Control group of 139 children were trained according to the program for preschool institutions. Treatment effects were assessed by 7 motor ability tests, one intellectual test (Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices) and 36-item questionnaire for assessing aberrant behavior, which was filled out by parents. Aberrant behavior reduced significantly when motor abilities improved through systematic exercise. These findings point to the importance of motor exercise and applying additional kinesiologic activities with various modalities to reduce aberrant behavior in preschool children.}, }
@article {pmid22396799, year = {2012}, author = {van der Vaart, E and Verbrugge, R and Hemelrijk, CK}, title = {Corvid re-caching without 'theory of mind': a model.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {7}, number = {3}, pages = {e32904}, pmid = {22396799}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Birds/*physiology ; Cognition ; Computer Simulation ; Computers ; *Feeding Behavior ; Food ; Learning ; Memory ; Models, Biological ; Models, Statistical ; Motivation ; Social Behavior ; Theory of Mind ; }, abstract = {Scrub jays are thought to use many tactics to protect their caches. For instance, they predominantly bury food far away from conspecifics, and if they must cache while being watched, they often re-cache their worms later, once they are in private. Two explanations have been offered for such observations, and they are intensely debated. First, the birds may reason about their competitors' mental states, with a 'theory of mind'; alternatively, they may apply behavioral rules learned in daily life. Although this second hypothesis is cognitively simpler, it does seem to require a different, ad-hoc behavioral rule for every caching and re-caching pattern exhibited by the birds. Our new theory avoids this drawback by explaining a large variety of patterns as side-effects of stress and the resulting memory errors. Inspired by experimental data, we assume that re-caching is not motivated by a deliberate effort to safeguard specific caches from theft, but by a general desire to cache more. This desire is brought on by stress, which is determined by the presence and dominance of onlookers, and by unsuccessful recovery attempts. We study this theory in two experiments similar to those done with real birds with a kind of 'virtual bird', whose behavior depends on a set of basic assumptions about corvid cognition, and a well-established model of human memory. Our results show that the 'virtual bird' acts as the real birds did; its re-caching reflects whether it has been watched, how dominant its onlooker was, and how close to that onlooker it has cached. This happens even though it cannot attribute mental states, and it has only a single behavioral rule assumed to be previously learned. Thus, our simulations indicate that corvid re-caching can be explained without sophisticated social cognition. Given our specific predictions, our theory can easily be tested empirically.}, }
@article {pmid22373303, year = {2012}, author = {Holford, ME and McCusker, JP and Cheung, KH and Krauthammer, M}, title = {A semantic web framework to integrate cancer omics data with biological knowledge.}, journal = {BMC bioinformatics}, volume = {13 Suppl 1}, number = {Suppl 1}, pages = {S10}, pmid = {22373303}, issn = {1471-2105}, support = {5P50CA121974/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; 5T15LM007056/LM/NLM NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Azacitidine/analogs &amp; derivatives/pharmacology ; Database Management Systems ; Decitabine ; Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/genetics ; *Epigenomics ; *Gene Expression Profiling ; Gene Ontology ; Gene Regulatory Networks ; Humans ; *Internet ; Melanoma/drug therapy/*genetics/pathology ; *Semantics ; Transcription Factors/metabolism ; Translational Research, Biomedical ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The RDF triple provides a simple linguistic means of describing limitless types of information. Triples can be flexibly combined into a unified data source we call a semantic model. Semantic models open new possibilities for the integration of variegated biological data. We use Semantic Web technology to explicate high throughput clinical data in the context of fundamental biological knowledge. We have extended Corvus, a data warehouse which provides a uniform interface to various forms of Omics data, by providing a SPARQL endpoint. With the querying and reasoning tools made possible by the Semantic Web, we were able to explore quantitative semantic models retrieved from Corvus in the light of systematic biological knowledge.<br><br>RESULTS: For this paper, we merged semantic models containing genomic, transcriptomic and epigenomic data from melanoma samples with two semantic models of functional data - one containing Gene Ontology (GO) data, the other, regulatory networks constructed from transcription factor binding information. These two semantic models were created in an ad hoc manner but support a common interface for integration with the quantitative semantic models. Such combined semantic models allow us to pose significant translational medicine questions. Here, we study the interplay between a cell's molecular state and its response to anti-cancer therapy by exploring the resistance of cancer cells to Decitabine, a demethylating agent.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: We were able to generate a testable hypothesis to explain how Decitabine fights cancer - namely, that it targets apoptosis-related gene promoters predominantly in Decitabine-sensitive cell lines, thus conveying its cytotoxic effect by activating the apoptosis pathway. Our research provides a framework whereby similar hypotheses can be developed easily.}, }
@article {pmid22372321, year = {2012}, author = {Kummerfeld, N and Legler, M and Wohlsein, P and Kummerfeld, M}, title = {[Morphological studies in different avian species on artefacts induced by euthanasia with T 61 " or Pentobarbital (Narcoren)].}, journal = {Berliner und Munchener tierarztliche Wochenschrift}, volume = {125}, number = {1-2}, pages = {27-31}, pmid = {22372321}, issn = {0005-9366}, mesh = {Amides/*pharmacology ; Animals ; *Artifacts ; *Birds ; Drug Combinations ; Edema/chemically induced ; *Euthanasia ; Hyperemia/chemically induced ; Hypnotics and Sedatives/pharmacology ; Kidney/drug effects/pathology ; *Liver/drug effects/pathology ; *Lung/drug effects/pathology ; Pentobarbital/*pharmacology ; Quaternary Ammonium Compounds/*pharmacology ; Tetracaine/*pharmacology ; }, abstract = {In mammals (e. g. macaques, dogs, cats, rats, sheep) as well as in men (suicides) euthanasia performed by intravenous injection of T 61 leads to serious lesions in lung, kidney or/and liver (endothelial damage, hyperemia, oedema, necrosis). This is caused by the solvent dimethylformamide (DMF). In this study, in contrast, in different species of birds (e. g. blackbird, carrion crow, kestrel, common buzzard, homer pigeon, common wood pigeon, mallard duck) and various modes of applications and dosages T 61, 1.0-3.0 ml/kg body mass, did not induce comparable artefacts in tissues of internal organs in the narcotized animals. Microscopically, only hyperemia and oedema of lung, kidney and/or liver were found. However, milder but similar lesions were detected also in groups of birds euthanized by pentobarbital (200 mg/kg body mass) as well as in control groups (overdosed ketamine intramusculary, 100 mg/kg body mass, and rapid exsanguination). In conclusion, euthanasia of narcotized birds performed by intravenous or intracardial injections ofT 61 seemed to be suitable. The observed lesions could therefore not be interpreted as T61 induced artefacts.}, }
@article {pmid22371120, year = {2012}, author = {Silva, FJ and Silva, KM}, title = {More but not less uncertainty makes adult humans' tool selections more similar to those reported with crows.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {40}, number = {4}, pages = {494-506}, pmid = {22371120}, issn = {1543-4508}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Choice Behavior/*physiology ; Crows ; Humans ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; Uncertainty ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {In this study, we examined whether adult humans' tool selections in a stick-and-tube problem might resemble previously published results of crows' selections if people had more experience solving the problem or were presented with a more ambiguous problem. In Experiments 1a and 1b, when given multiple opportunities to select a stick from a set of 10 to retrieve a candy located either 8 or 16 cm from the opening of a tube, the participants always selected a stick that was long enough to retrieve the candy; however, they did not generally select either the stick whose length matched the object's distance or the longest stick in the set-two outcomes reported in studies with crows. In Experiment 2, participants who were allowed only a brief period of time to study the problem selected a longer stick than did participants allowed unlimited time to do the same. However, only when the candy's distance was 16 cm did these people reliably select the longest stick in the set. It seems that increasing, but not decreasing, people's uncertainty about a problem can make humans' tool selections more similar to those reported with crows.}, }
@article {pmid22366505, year = {2012}, author = {Ibáñez-Álamo, JD and De Neve, L and Roldán, M and Rodríguez, J and Trouvé, C and Chastel, O and Soler, M}, title = {Corticosterone levels in host and parasite nestlings: is brood parasitism a hormonal stressor?.}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {61}, number = {4}, pages = {590-597}, doi = {10.1016/j.yhbeh.2012.02.008}, pmid = {22366505}, issn = {1095-6867}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Newborn ; Competitive Behavior/physiology ; Corticosterone/*blood ; Crows/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Female ; Male ; Nesting Behavior/*physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Radioimmunoassay ; Temperature ; Wind ; }, abstract = {Parasite chicks from non-evictor species usually try to monopolize host parental care, thereby increasing considerably the level of food competition in the nest. Here, we propose that brood parasitism is an important stressor for host and parasite nestlings and explore this hypothesis in the non-evictor great spotted cuckoo (Clamator glandarius) and its main hosts, the same-sized black-billed magpie (Pica pica) and the larger carrion crow (Corvus corone). We experimentally created 3-nestling broods of different brood compositions (only cuckoo chicks, only host chicks, or cuckoo and host chicks together) and measured baseline corticosterone levels of nestlings along their developmental period (early, middle and late). We found that brood parasitism increased corticosterone levels in magpie nestlings in the mid and late nestling period compared to those raised in unparasitized nests. Interestingly, carrion crow nestlings from parasitized nests only increased their corticosterone levels in the mid nestling period, when the competition for food with the cuckoo nestling was highest. Our results suggest that brood parasitism could be a potential physiological stressor for host nestlings, especially during the developmental stages where food requirements are highest. Conversely, cuckoo nestlings could be physiologically adapted to high competition levels since they did not show significant differences in corticosterone levels in relation to brood composition.}, }
@article {pmid22357936, year = {2012}, author = {Coulon, A and Fitzpatrick, JW and Bowman, R and Lovette, IJ}, title = {Mind the gap: genetic distance increases with habitat gap size in Florida scrub jays.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {8}, number = {4}, pages = {582-585}, pmid = {22357936}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; DNA/blood ; *Ecosystem ; *Endangered Species ; Florida ; Gene Flow ; *Genetics, Population ; Genotyping Techniques ; Geography ; Linear Models ; Movement/physiology ; Reproductive Isolation ; Songbirds/*genetics/physiology ; }, abstract = {Habitat gap size has been negatively linked to movement probability in several species occupying fragmented landscapes. How these effects on movement behaviour in turn affect the genetic structure of fragmented populations at local scales is less well known. We tested, and confirmed, the hypothesis that genetic differentiation among adjacent populations of Florida scrub jays--an endangered bird species with poor dispersal abilities and a high degree of habitat specialization--increases with the width of habitat gaps separating them. This relationship was not an artefact of simple isolation-by-distance, as genetic distance was not correlated with the Euclidean distance between geographical centroids of the adjacent populations. Our results suggest that gap size affects movement behaviour even at remarkably local spatial scales, producing direct consequences on the genetic structure of fragmented populations. This finding shows that conserving genetic continuity for specialist species within fragmented habitat requires maintenance or restoration of preserve networks in which habitat gaps do not exceed a species-specific threshold distance.}, }
@article {pmid22352504, year = {2012}, author = {Nakata, T and Trehub, SE and Kanda, Y}, title = {Effect of cochlear implants on children's perception and production of speech prosody.}, journal = {The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America}, volume = {131}, number = {2}, pages = {1307-1314}, doi = {10.1121/1.3672697}, pmid = {22352504}, issn = {1520-8524}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Analysis of Variance ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cochlear Implants ; Cues ; Deafness/congenital/*physiopathology/psychology ; Emotions/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Phonetics ; Pitch Discrimination/*physiology ; Speech Acoustics ; Speech Perception/*physiology ; Voice Quality/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Japanese 5- to 13-yr-olds who used cochlear implants (CIs) and a comparison group of normally hearing (NH) Japanese children were tested on their perception and production of speech prosody. For the perception task, they were required to judge whether semantically neutral utterances that were normalized for amplitude were spoken in a happy, sad, or angry manner. The performance of NH children was error-free. By contrast, child CI users performed well below ceiling but above chance levels on happy- and sad-sounding utterances but not on angry-sounding utterances. For the production task, children were required to imitate stereotyped Japanese utterances expressing disappointment and surprise as well as culturally typically representations of crow and cat sounds. NH 5- and 6-year-olds produced significantly poorer imitations than older hearing children, but age was unrelated to the imitation quality of child CI users. Overall, child CI user's imitations were significantly poorer than those of NH children, but they did not differ significantly from the imitations of the youngest NH group. Moreover, there was a robust correlation between the performance of child CI users on the perception and production tasks; this implies that difficulties with prosodic perception underlie their difficulties with prosodic imitation.}, }
@article {pmid22349867, year = {2012}, author = {Osmani, K and Vignes, S and Aissi, M and Wade, F and Milani, P and Lévy, BI and Kubis, N}, title = {Taxane-induced peripheral neuropathy has good long-term prognosis: a 1- to 13-year evaluation.}, journal = {Journal of neurology}, volume = {259}, number = {9}, pages = {1936-1943}, pmid = {22349867}, issn = {1432-1459}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Antineoplastic Agents/*adverse effects ; Docetaxel ; Electromyography ; Evoked Potentials, Motor/drug effects ; Female ; Genital Neoplasms, Female/drug therapy ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Middle Aged ; Neural Conduction/drug effects ; Neurologic Examination ; Paclitaxel/adverse effects ; Peripheral Nerves/drug effects/physiopathology ; Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/*chemically induced/physiopathology ; Taxoids/*adverse effects ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Taxane-induced neuropathy is a frequent complication, in particular in women with breast cancer. The incidence can be variable and ranges from 11 to 87%, depending on the taxane used and identified risk factors, such as cumulative dose, additional neurotoxic chemotherapy agents and previous nerve fragility. However, little is known about long-term outcome and interference with daily life activities. The objective of this study was to assess clinical and electrophysiological neurological evaluation (ENMG) in a cohort of patients, 1-13 years (median 3 years) after the end of the last cure. Sixty-nine women were enrolled in the lymphology unit of Cognacq-Jay's Hospital. They were 58 ± 9 years old (mean age ± SD) and had been treated by docetexel (n = 56), paclitaxel (n = 10) or both (n = 3), 1-13 years before. Sensory neuropathy occurred in 64% and totally disappeared within months for only 14% after cessation of treatment. However, if symptoms were still present at the time of examination, they were considered as minor by almost all patients, with no interference with daily life activities (grade 2 CTCAE v.3.0). ENMG was accepted by 14 patients; it was normal in 7, and showed sensory axonal neuropathy in 5 and sensory-motor neuropathy in 2. The incidence of taxane-induced neuropathy is high, more frequent with paclitaxel than docetaxel, and is characterized by minor or moderate axonal sensory polyneuropathy. When persistent, it is extremely well tolerated by the patient. When clinical motor signs occur, the patient should be referred to a neurologist.}, }
@article {pmid22347477, year = {2012}, author = {Sun, E and Zhao, J and Liu, N and Yang, T and Xu, Q and Qin, Y and Bu, Z and Yang, Y and Lunt, RA and Wang, L and Wu, D}, title = {Comprehensive mapping of common immunodominant epitopes in the West Nile virus nonstructural protein 1 recognized by avian antibody responses.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {e31434}, pmid = {22347477}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibody Formation ; Birds/*immunology ; Chickens ; Ducks ; Epitope Mapping/*methods ; Geese ; *Immunity, Humoral ; Immunodominant Epitopes/*analysis ; Viral Nonstructural Proteins/*immunology ; West Nile virus/*immunology ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that primarily infects birds but occasionally infects humans and horses. Certain species of birds, including crows, house sparrows, geese, blue jays and ravens, are considered highly susceptible hosts to WNV. The nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) of WNV can elicit protective immune responses, including NS1-reactive antibodies, during infection of animals. The antigenicity of NS1 suggests that NS1-reactive antibodies could provide a basis for serological diagnostic reagents. To further define serological reagents for diagnostic use, the antigenic sites in NS1 that are targeted by host immune responses need to be identified and the potential diagnostic value of individual antigenic sites also needs to be defined. The present study describes comprehensive mapping of common immunodominant linear B-cell epitopes in the WNV NS1 using avian WNV NS1 antisera. We screened antisera from chickens, ducks and geese immunized with purified NS1 for reactivity against 35 partially overlapping peptides covering the entire WNV NS1. This study identified twelve, nine and six peptide epitopes recognized by chicken, duck and goose antibody responses, respectively. Three epitopes (NS1-3, 14 and 24) were recognized by antibodies elicited by immunization in all three avian species tested. We also found that NS1-3 and 24 were WNV-specific epitopes, whereas the NS1-14 epitope was conserved among the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) serocomplex viruses based on the reactivity of avian WNV NS1 antisera against polypeptides derived from the NS1 sequences of viruses of the JEV serocomplex. Further analysis showed that the three common polypeptide epitopes were not recognized by antibodies in Avian Influenza Virus (AIV), Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV), Duck Plague Virus (DPV) and Goose Parvovirus (GPV) antisera. The knowledge and reagents generated in this study have potential applications in differential diagnostic approaches and subunit vaccines development for WNV and other viruses of the JEV serocomplex.}, }
@article {pmid22347286, year = {2011}, author = {Halajian, A and Eslami, A and Mobedi, I and Amin, O and Mariaux, J and Mansoori, J and Tavakol, S}, title = {Gastrointestinal Helminths of Magpies (Pica pica), Rooks (Corvus frugilegus) and Carrion Crows (Corvus corone) in Mazandaran Province, North of Iran.}, journal = {Iranian journal of parasitology}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {38-44}, pmid = {22347286}, issn = {2008-238X}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Corvidae is a cosmopolitan family of oscine birds including crows, rooks, magpies, jays, chough, and ravens. These birds are migratory species, especially in the shortage of foods, so they can act like vectors for a wide range of microorganisms. They live generally in temperate climates and in a very close contact with human residential areas as well as poultry farms. There is no available information in the literature concerning the parasitic infections of these three species of corvidae in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran, so this study was conducted to clarify this.<br><br>METHODS: As there are three species of corvid birds in Mazandaran Province, 106 birds including 79 magpies, 11 rooks, and 16 carrion crows were examined between winter 2007 and spring 2008 at post mortem for gastrointestinal helminths. The helminths were drawn and identified morphologically in the Laboratory of Parasitology, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran and also partly in the School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, based on the reference books and identification keys like Soulsby, Khalil et al. and Anderson et al.<br><br>RESULTS: Four species of nematodes, 2 species of cestodes, 1 species of trematodes and 1 species of acanthocephalans were identified in these three corvid species.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Five species of the helminths are identified for the first time in Iran, and the acanthocephalan species is new host record for rooks. It is clear that these corvid birds have diverse range of helminths and can act as carriers for infecting the domestic fowls.}, }
@article {pmid22345605, year = {2012}, author = {Keightley, PD}, title = {Rates and fitness consequences of new mutations in humans.}, journal = {Genetics}, volume = {190}, number = {2}, pages = {295-304}, pmid = {22345605}, issn = {1943-2631}, support = {/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; BB/H006109/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Evolution, Molecular ; Female ; *Genetic Fitness ; Genetics, Population ; Genome, Human ; Humans ; Invertebrates/genetics ; Male ; *Mutation Rate ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {The human mutation rate per nucleotide site per generation (μ) can be estimated from data on mutation rates at loci causing Mendelian genetic disease, by comparing putatively neutrally evolving nucleotide sequences between humans and chimpanzees and by comparing the genome sequences of relatives. Direct estimates from genome sequencing of relatives suggest that μ is about 1.1 × 10(-8), which is about twofold lower than estimates based on the human-chimp divergence. This implies that an average of ~70 new mutations arise in the human diploid genome per generation. Most of these mutations are paternal in origin, but the male:female mutation rate ratio is currently uncertain and might vary even among individuals within a population. On the basis of a method proposed by Kondrashov and Crow, the genome-wide deleterious mutation rate (U) can be estimated from the product of the number of nucleotide sites in the genome, μ, and the mean selective constraint per site. Although the presence of many weakly selected mutations in human noncoding DNA makes this approach somewhat problematic, estimates are U ≈ 2.2 for the whole diploid genome per generation and 0.35 for mutations that change an amino acid of a protein-coding gene. A genome-wide deleterious mutation rate of 2.2 seems higher than humans could tolerate if natural selection is "hard," but could be tolerated if selection acts on relative fitness differences between individuals or if there is synergistic epistasis. I argue that in the foreseeable future, an accumulation of new deleterious mutations is unlikely to lead to a detectable decline in fitness of human populations.}, }
@article {pmid22345603, year = {2012}, author = {Ewens, WJ}, title = {James F. Crow and the stochastic theory of population genetics.}, journal = {Genetics}, volume = {190}, number = {2}, pages = {287-290}, pmid = {22345603}, issn = {1943-2631}, mesh = {*Genetics, Population/history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; *Population Dynamics/history ; Stochastic Processes ; }, abstract = {Research in population genetics theory has two main strands. The first is deterministic theory, where random changes in allelic frequencies are ignored and attention focuses on the evolutionary effects of selection and mutation. The second strand, stochastic theory, takes account of these random changes and thus is more complete than deterministic theory. This essay is one in the series of Perspectives and Reviews honoring James F. Crow on the occasion of his 95th birthday. It concerns his contributions to, and involvement with, the stochastic theory of evolutionary population genetics.}, }
@article {pmid22344448, year = {2012}, author = {Wei, W and Lu, H and Zhao, H and Chen, C and Dong, Q and Zhou, X}, title = {Gender differences in children's arithmetic performance are accounted for by gender differences in language abilities.}, journal = {Psychological science}, volume = {23}, number = {3}, pages = {320-330}, doi = {10.1177/0956797611427168}, pmid = {22344448}, issn = {1467-9280}, mesh = {*Aptitude ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; *Language ; Male ; *Mathematics ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {Studies have shown that female children, on average, consistently outperform male children in arithmetic. In the research reported here, 1,556 pupils (8 to 11 years of age) from urban and rural regions in the greater Beijing area completed 10 cognitive tasks. Results showed that girls outperformed boys in arithmetic tasks (i.e., simple subtraction, complex multiplication), as well as in numerosity-comparison, number-comparison, number-series-completion, choice reaction time, and word-rhyming tasks. Boys outperformed girls in a mental rotation task. Controlling for scores on the word-rhyming task eliminated gender differences in arithmetic, whereas controlling for scores on numerical-processing tasks (number comparison, numerosity estimation, numerosity comparison, and number-series completion) and general cognitive tasks (choice reaction time, Raven's Progressive Matrices, and mental rotation) did not. These results suggest that girls' advantage in arithmetic is likely due to their advantage in language processing.}, }
@article {pmid22344436, year = {2012}, author = {Dove, W and Susman, M}, title = {Retrospective. James F. Crow (1916-2012).}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {335}, number = {6070}, pages = {812}, doi = {10.1126/science.1219557}, pmid = {22344436}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Genetics, Medical/*history ; Genetics, Population/*history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid22324495, year = {2012}, author = {Whitehouse, AJ and Robinson, M and Newnham, JP and Pennell, CE}, title = {Do hypertensive diseases of pregnancy disrupt neurocognitive development in offspring?.}, journal = {Paediatric and perinatal epidemiology}, volume = {26}, number = {2}, pages = {101-108}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-3016.2011.01257.x}, pmid = {22324495}, issn = {1365-3016}, mesh = {Child ; Child Behavior Disorders/etiology ; Child Development/physiology ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; *Hypertension, Pregnancy-Induced ; Language Development ; Language Development Disorders/*etiology ; Language Tests/standards ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests/standards ; Pregnancy ; Regression Analysis ; Risk Factors ; Verbal Behavior/physiology ; Western Australia ; }, abstract = {The current study sought to determine whether hypertensive diseases of pregnancy (gestational hypertension and pre-eclampsia) are associated with neurocognitive outcomes in middle childhood. Participants were members of the Western Australian Pregnancy Cohort (Raine) Study. Data were available for 1389 children (675 females; mean age = 10.59 years; SD = 0.19). Twenty-five per cent of these participants were offspring of pregnancies complicated by either gestational hypertension (n = 279), or pre-eclampsia (n = 34). Verbal ability at age 10 years was assessed with the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test - Revised (PPVT-R), and non-verbal ability with Ravens Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM). Separate multivariable regression analyses, incorporating sociodemographic, antenatal, obstetric and postnatal covariates, investigated the effect of a two- (normotensive pregnancy vs. hypertensive pregnancy) and three-level (normotensive pregnancy vs. gestational hypertension vs. pre-eclampsia) predictor variable on PPVT-R and RCPM scores. Offspring of pregnancies complicated by maternal hypertension (gestational hypertension or pre-eclampsia) had a mean PPVT-R score that was 1.83 ([95% confidence interval (CI) -3.48, -0.17], P = 0.03) points lower than children from normotensive pregnancies. Multivariable regression analysis also identified a significant inverse association between the three-level predictor variable and offspring PPVT-R scores (P = 0.02). Gestational hypertension (without pre-eclampsia) reduced offspring PPVT-R scores by 1.71 points [95% CI -3.39, -0.03] and pre-eclampsia led to a reduction of 3.53 points [95% CI -8.41, 1.35], although this latter association did not achieve statistical significance. There was no effect of the two- (P = 0.99) or three-level (P = 0.92) predictor variable on RCPM scores. Maternal hypertensive diseases of pregnancy are a risk factor for a small reduction in offspring verbal ability.}, }
@article {pmid22321688, year = {2012}, author = {van Els, P and Cicero, C and Klicka, J}, title = {High latitudes and high genetic diversity: phylogeography of a widespread boreal bird, the gray jay (Perisoreus canadensis).}, journal = {Molecular phylogenetics and evolution}, volume = {63}, number = {2}, pages = {456-465}, doi = {10.1016/j.ympev.2012.01.019}, pmid = {22321688}, issn = {1095-9513}, mesh = {Animals ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; *Genetic Variation ; Genetics, Population ; Geography ; North America ; Passeriformes/*classification/*genetics ; Phylogeny ; *Phylogeography ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {We describe range-wide phylogeographic variation in gray jays (Perisoreus canadensis), a boreal Nearctic corvid that occurs today primarily in recently glaciated regions. Phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial DNA (1041 base pairs ND2 gene; N=205, 50 localities) revealed four reciprocally monophyletic groups. One widespread clade occurs across the North American boreal zone, from Newfoundland to Alaska and southwest into Utah. Three other clades occur at lower latitudes in the montane West in Colorado, the northern Rocky Mountains, and the Pacific Northwest respectively. The geographic distribution of clades in gray jays corresponds with a general pattern that is emerging for boreal taxa, having one widespread northern clade and one or more geographically restricted southwestern clades. Population genetic analyses indicate that the larger boreal clade is genetically structured and harbors significantly more genetic diversity than those clades occurring at lower latitudes. Species distribution modeling (SDM) revealed multiple putative Pleistocene refugia including several occurring at higher latitudes. We suggest that multiple post-glacial colonization routes, some of which originate from these northern refugia, are responsible for the relatively high genetic diversity at high latitudes. Conversely, lower latitude clades show little variation, probably as a result of historical restriction to smaller geographical areas with smaller long-term population sizes. This 'upside-down' pattern of genetic diversity contrasts with the conventional view that populations of north-temperate species occupying previously glaciated habitats should possess lower levels of diversity than their southern counterparts.}, }
@article {pmid22316187, year = {2012}, author = {Flynn, TC and Carruthers, A and Carruthers, J and Geister, TL and Görtelmeyer, R and Hardas, B and Himmrich, S and Kerscher, M and de Maio, M and Mohrmann, C and Narins, RS and Pooth, R and Rzany, B and Sattler, G and Buchner, L and Benter, U and Fey, C and Jones, D}, title = {Validated assessment scales for the upper face.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {38}, number = {2 Spec No.}, pages = {309-319}, doi = {10.1111/j.1524-4725.2011.02248.x}, pmid = {22316187}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Esthetics ; Eyebrows/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Female ; Forehead/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology/surgery ; Humans ; Internationality ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Observer Variation ; *Photography ; Reproducibility of Results ; Rhytidoplasty ; Sex Factors ; Skin Aging/*physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Age-related upper face changes such as wrinkles, lines, volume loss, and anatomic alterations may affect quality of life and psychological well-being. The development of globally accepted tools to assess these changes objectively is an essential contribution to aesthetic research and routine clinical medicine.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To establish the reliability of several upper face scales for clinical research and practice: forehead lines, glabellar lines, crow's feet (at rest and dynamic expression), sex-specific brow positioning, and summary scores of forehead and crow's feet areas and of the entire upper face unit.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: Four 5-point photonumerical rating scales were developed to assess glabellar lines and sex-specific brow positioning. Twelve experts rated identical upper face photographs of 50 subjects in two separate rating cycles using all eight scales. Responses of raters were analyzed to assess intra- and interrater reliability.<br><br>RESULTS: Interrater reliability was substantial for all upper face scales, aesthetic areas, and the upper face score except for the brow positioning scales. Intrarater reliability was high for all scales and resulting scores.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Except for brow positioning, the upper face rating scales are reliable tools for valid and reproducible assessment of the aging process.}, }
@article {pmid22309762, year = {2012}, author = {Ribeiro, RK and Semer, NL and Yazigi, L}, title = {Rorschach Comprehensive System data from a sample of 211 nonpatient children in Brazil.}, journal = {Journal of personality assessment}, volume = {94}, number = {3}, pages = {267-275}, doi = {10.1080/00223891.2011.653727}, pmid = {22309762}, issn = {1532-7752}, mesh = {Brazil ; Child ; Child Behavior/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Personality ; Personality Assessment/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Personality Development ; Psychometrics/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Reference Values ; Reproducibility of Results ; Rorschach Test/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {This study provides Rorschach Comprehensive System normative data for Brazilian boys and girls drawn from public and private schools. Initially, the Child Behavior Checklist was administered to parents to assess the child's social competence and to screen out behavioral disturbances. Afterward, the Raven's Color Progressive Matrices was administered to exclude children with low intellectual development. Finally, the Rorschach Comprehensive System was administered to the selected 211 children who were distributed in 4 subgroups: 7-year-olds (n = 50), 8-year-olds (n = 53), 9-year-olds (n = 52), and 10-year-olds (n = 56). Interrater reliability statistics were calculated, including percentage of agreement and iota. Descriptive statistics of all variables of the Comprehensive System for each subgroup are presented and contrasted with results from other relevant comparison samples.}, }
@article {pmid22303573, year = {2011}, author = {Hamid, JJ and Amal, MK and Hasmiza, H and Pim, CD and Ng, LO and Wan, MW}, title = {Effect of gender and nutritional status on academic achievement and cognitive function among primary school children in a rural district in Malaysia.}, journal = {Malaysian journal of nutrition}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {189-200}, pmid = {22303573}, issn = {1394-035X}, mesh = {Child ; Child Welfare ; *Cognition ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Malaysia ; Male ; *Nutritional Status ; Rural Population ; Sex Factors ; Students ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between gender, birth weight, nutritional status, and iron status of children with their academic performance and cognitive function.<br><br>METHODS: Two hundred and forty-nine children, seven to nine years of age, were recruited by systematic sampling from six primary schools in a rural area in Malaysia. Cognitive function was assessed by using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (R-CPM). Academic performance of the children was recorded from their school final examination results in four subjects including Malay language, English, Mathematics, and Science. Birth weight was recorded from the birth certificate, and nutritional status was determined by weight-for-age z score and height-for-age z score.<br><br>RESULTS: Girls had a significantly higher score in all the academic tests, but a lower cognitive score compared to boys. Nutritional status was found to be correlated significantly with academic performance. Academic and cognitive function scores were also found to be correlated significantly with birth weight, parents' education, and family income. In a multivariate analysis, gender remained the significant predictor of academic function, and iron status and haemoglobin were the significant predictors of cognitive function, after controlling for other variables.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The study showed that girls performed better academically than boys in rural Malaysia. Nutritional status, parents' education and family income could be additional modifiable factors to improve academic performance of the children. More attention is needed to improve academic achievements of boys at their early school years.}, }
@article {pmid22303127, year = {2012}, author = {Miller, J and Rahmadi, C}, title = {A troglomorphic spider from Java (Araneae, Ctenidae, Amauropelma).}, journal = {ZooKeys}, volume = {}, number = {163}, pages = {1-11}, pmid = {22303127}, issn = {1313-2970}, abstract = {A new troglomorphic spider from caves in Central Java, Indonesia, is described and placed in the ctenid genus Amauropelma Raven, Stumkat &amp; Gray, until now containing only species from Queensland, Australia. Only juveniles and mature females of the new species are known. We give our reasons for placing the new species in Amauropelma, discuss conflicting characters, and make predictions about the morphology of the as yet undiscovered male that will test our taxonomic hypothesis. The description includes DNA barcode sequence data.}, }
@article {pmid22301351, year = {2012}, author = {Yuan, Z and Qin, W and Wang, D and Jiang, T and Zhang, Y and Yu, C}, title = {The salience network contributes to an individual's fluid reasoning capacity.}, journal = {Behavioural brain research}, volume = {229}, number = {2}, pages = {384-390}, doi = {10.1016/j.bbr.2012.01.037}, pmid = {22301351}, issn = {1872-7549}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Cerebral Cortex/*physiology ; Female ; Functional Neuroimaging/methods/*psychology ; Gyrus Cinguli/*physiology ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods/*psychology ; Male ; Nerve Fibers, Unmyelinated/physiology ; Neural Pathways/physiology ; Problem Solving/physiology ; Thinking/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Fluid reasoning is the ability to think flexibly and logically, analyze novel problems and identify the relationships that underpin these problems independent of acquired knowledge. Although many functional imaging studies have investigated brain activation during fluid reasoning tasks, the neural correlates of fluid reasoning remain elusive. In the present study, we aimed to uncover the neural correlates of fluid reasoning by analyzing correlations between Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM), an effective measure of fluid reasoning, and measures of regional gray matter volume (GMV) and regional homogeneity (ReHo) in a voxel-wise manner throughout the whole brain in 297 healthy young adults. The most important finding was that RSPM scores were positively correlated with both GMV and ReHo values in brain areas that belong to the salience network, including the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex and the fronto-insular cortex. Additionally, we found positive or negative correlations between RSPM scores and GMV or ReHo values in brain areas of the central-executive, default-mode, sensorimotor and visual networks. Our findings suggest that fluid reasoning ability is related to a variety of brain areas and emphasize the important contribution of the salience network to this ability.}, }
@article {pmid22298910, year = {2012}, author = {Fraser, ON and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Reciprocity of agonistic support in ravens.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {83}, number = {1}, pages = {171-177}, pmid = {22298910}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {Cooperative behaviour through reciprocation or interchange of valuable services in primates has received considerable attention, especially regarding the timeframe of reciprocation and its ensuing cognitive implications. Much less, however, is known about reciprocity in other animals, particularly birds. We investigated patterns of agonistic support (defined as a third party intervening in an ongoing conflict to attack one of the conflict participants, thus supporting the other) in a group of 13 captive ravens, Corvus corax. We found support for long-term, but not short-term, reciprocation of agonistic support. Ravens were more likely to support individuals who preened them, kin and dominant group members. These results suggest that ravens do not reciprocate on a calculated tit-for-tat basis, but aid individuals from whom reciprocated support would be most useful and those with whom they share a good relationship. Additionally, dyadic levels of agonistic support and consolation (postconflict affiliation from a bystander to the victim) correlated strongly with each other, but we found no evidence to suggest that receiving agonistic support influences the victim's likelihood of receiving support (consolation) after the conflict ends. Our findings are consistent with an emotionally mediated form of reciprocity in ravens and provide additional support for convergent cognitive evolution in birds and mammals.}, }
@article {pmid22291952, year = {2012}, author = {Kalisch, T and Kattenstroth, JC and Kowalewski, R and Tegenthoff, M and Dinse, HR}, title = {Cognitive and tactile factors affecting human haptic performance in later life.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {e30420}, pmid = {22291952}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cognition/*physiology ; Discrimination, Psychological/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Recognition, Psychology/physiology ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Touch/*physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vision and haptics are the key modalities by which humans perceive objects and interact with their environment in a target-oriented manner. Both modalities share higher-order neural resources and the mechanisms required for object exploration. Compared to vision, the understanding of haptic information processing is still rudimentary. Although it is known that haptic performance, similar to many other skills, decreases in old age, the underlying mechanisms are not clear. It is yet to be determined to what extent this decrease is related to the age-related loss of tactile acuity or cognitive capacity.<br><br>We investigated the haptic performance of 81 older adults by means of a cross-modal object recognition test. Additionally, we assessed the subjects' tactile acuity with an apparatus-based two-point discrimination paradigm, and their cognitive performance by means of the non-verbal Raven-Standard-Progressive matrices test. As expected, there was a significant age-related decline in performance on all 3 tests. With the exception of tactile acuity, this decline was found to be more distinct in female subjects. Correlation analyses revealed a strong relationship between haptic and cognitive performance for all subjects. Tactile performance, on the contrary, was only significantly correlated with male subjects' haptic performance.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Haptic object recognition is a demanding task in old age, especially when it comes to the exploration of complex, unfamiliar objects. Our data support a disproportionately higher impact of cognition on haptic performance as compared to the impact of tactile acuity. Our findings are in agreement with studies reporting an increase in co-variation between individual sensory performance and general cognitive functioning in old age.}, }
@article {pmid22281585, year = {2012}, author = {Kondrashov, A}, title = {James Crow (1916-2012).}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {481}, number = {7382}, pages = {444}, doi = {10.1038/481444a}, pmid = {22281585}, issn = {1476-4687}, mesh = {Animals ; Forensic Genetics/history ; Genetics, Population/*history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Selection, Genetic ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid22281374, year = {2012}, author = {Iwasaki, S and Nishio, S and Moteki, H and Takumi, Y and Fukushima, K and Kasai, N and Usami, S}, title = {Language development in Japanese children who receive cochlear implant and/or hearing aid.}, journal = {International journal of pediatric otorhinolaryngology}, volume = {76}, number = {3}, pages = {433-438}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijporl.2011.12.027}, pmid = {22281374}, issn = {1872-8464}, mesh = {Age Factors ; *Asian People ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Cochlear Implantation ; *Cochlear Implants ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; *Hearing Aids ; Hearing Loss/ethnology/psychology/*therapy ; Humans ; Japan ; *Language Development ; Male ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate a wide variety of factors that influence auditory, speech, and language development following pediatric cochlear implantation (CI).<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: Prospective collection of language tested data in profound hearing-impaired children.<br><br>HYPOTHESIS: Pediatric CI can potentially be effective to development of practical communication skills and early implantation is more effective.<br><br>METHODS: We proposed a set of language tests (assessment package of the language development for Japanese hearing-impaired children; ALADJIN) consisting of communication skills testing (test for question-answer interaction development; TQAID), comprehensive (Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-Revised; PVT-R and Standardized Comprehension Test for Abstract Words; SCTAW) and productive vocabulary (Word Fluency Test; WFT), and comprehensive and productive syntax (Syntactic processing Test for Aphasia; STA). Of 638 hearing-impaired children recruited for this study, 282 (44.2%) with >70 dB hearing impairment had undergone CI. After excluding children with low birth weight (<1800 g), those with >11 points on the Pervasive Developmental Disorder ASJ Rating Scale for the test of autistic tendency, and those <2 SD on Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices for the test of non-verbal intelligence, 190 children were subjected to this set of language tests.<br><br>RESULTS: Sixty children (31.6%) were unilateral CI-only users, 128 (67.4%) were CI-hearing aid (HA) users, and 2 (1.1%) were bilateral CI users. Hearing loss level of CI users was significantly (p<0.01) worse than that of HA-only users. However, the threshold level, maximum speech discrimination score, and speech intelligibility rating in CI users were significantly (p<0.01) better than those in HA-only users. The scores for PVT-R (p<0.01), SCTAW, and WFT in CI users were better than those in HA-only users. STA and TQAID scores in CI-HA users were significantly (p<0.05) better than those in unilateral CI-only users. The high correlation (r=0.52) has been found between the age of CI and maximum speech discrimination score. The scores of speech and language tests in the implanted children before 24 months of age have been better than those in the implanted children after 24 months of age.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: We could indicate that CI was effective for language development in Japanese hearing-impaired children and early CI was more effective for productive vocabulary and syntax.}, }
@article {pmid22281207, year = {2012}, author = {Chiappedi, M and Maffioletti, E and Piazza, F and D'Adda, N and Tamburini, M and Balottin, U}, title = {Abilities of preschoolers: comparing different tools.}, journal = {Italian journal of pediatrics}, volume = {38}, number = {}, pages = {3}, pmid = {22281207}, issn = {1824-7288}, mesh = {Attention ; *Child Behavior ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition ; Executive Function ; Female ; Humans ; Learning ; Male ; Memory ; *Mental Processes ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: There is a strong need for studies evaluating tests in terms both of psychometric properties (i.e. their efficacy or ability to be helpful in reaching a diagnosis) and of their cost-effectiveness (i.e. their efficiency). These data are essential for planning a correct evaluation to identify children's needs (both educational and abilitative).<br><br>METHODS: We evaluated 58 children attending for the first time the last year of the Scuola dell'Infanzia. Parental view was obtained with Child Behaviour Check-List and Conners' Rating Scales--Revised, and family socio-economic status was evaluated using Hollingshead's Four Factor Index; teacher compiled the IPDA questionnaire; children were administered Raven's Progressive Matrices, Modified Bell Cancellation Test, BVN 5-11 (a neuropsychological battery).<br><br>RESULTS: A correlational analysis was conducted using Spearman's Rho (since variables were not normally distributed). These asymptomatic children show a good global cognitive functioning, but also a deficit of attention and of Executive Functions. Some of the tests used seem more cost-effective than others and there are some redundancies in information obtained.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our data show that there are significant correlations between different neuropsychological and behavioural measures. It is therefore possible to rationalize diagnostic protocols without a significant information reduction. A deeper analysis will require a preliminary definition of the psychometric properties of used tools.}, }
@article {pmid22278237, year = {2012}, author = {Woo, PC and Lau, SK and Lam, CS and Lau, CC and Tsang, AK and Lau, JH and Bai, R and Teng, JL and Tsang, CC and Wang, M and Zheng, BJ and Chan, KH and Yuen, KY}, title = {Discovery of seven novel Mammalian and avian coronaviruses in the genus deltacoronavirus supports bat coronaviruses as the gene source of alphacoronavirus and betacoronavirus and avian coronaviruses as the gene source of gammacoronavirus and deltacoronavirus.}, journal = {Journal of virology}, volume = {86}, number = {7}, pages = {3995-4008}, pmid = {22278237}, issn = {1098-5514}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Birds ; Cats ; Chiroptera/*virology ; Coronaviridae/*classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Coronaviridae Infections/*veterinary/*virology ; Coronavirus/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Dogs ; Evolution, Molecular ; Genome, Viral ; Haplorhini ; Humans ; Mammals/*virology ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; Rodentia ; Swine ; Viral Proteins/genetics ; }, abstract = {Recently, we reported the discovery of three novel coronaviruses, bulbul coronavirus HKU11, thrush coronavirus HKU12, and munia coronavirus HKU13, which were identified as representatives of a novel genus, Deltacoronavirus, in the subfamily Coronavirinae. In this territory-wide molecular epidemiology study involving 3,137 mammals and 3,298 birds, we discovered seven additional novel deltacoronaviruses in pigs and birds, which we named porcine coronavirus HKU15, white-eye coronavirus HKU16, sparrow coronavirus HKU17, magpie robin coronavirus HKU18, night heron coronavirus HKU19, wigeon coronavirus HKU20, and common moorhen coronavirus HKU21. Complete genome sequencing and comparative genome analysis showed that the avian and mammalian deltacoronaviruses have similar genome characteristics and structures. They all have relatively small genomes (25.421 to 26.674 kb), the smallest among all coronaviruses. They all have a single papain-like protease domain in the nsp3 gene; an accessory gene, NS6 open reading frame (ORF), located between the M and N genes; and a variable number of accessory genes (up to four) downstream of the N gene. Moreover, they all have the same putative transcription regulatory sequence of ACACCA. Molecular clock analysis showed that the most recent common ancestor of all coronaviruses was estimated at approximately 8100 BC, and those of Alphacoronavirus, Betacoronavirus, Gammacoronavirus, and Deltacoronavirus were at approximately 2400 BC, 3300 BC, 2800 BC, and 3000 BC, respectively. From our studies, it appears that bats and birds, the warm blooded flying vertebrates, are ideal hosts for the coronavirus gene source, bats for Alphacoronavirus and Betacoronavirus and birds for Gammacoronavirus and Deltacoronavirus, to fuel coronavirus evolution and dissemination.}, }
@article {pmid22277463, year = {2011}, author = {Kuwabara, S}, title = {[Treatment for Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {51}, number = {11}, pages = {1019}, doi = {10.5692/clinicalneurol.51.1019}, pmid = {22277463}, issn = {1882-0654}, mesh = {Humans ; POEMS Syndrome/drug therapy/*therapy ; Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation ; Thalidomide/therapeutic use ; }, }
@article {pmid22274359, year = {2012}, author = {Sorrentino, C and Toland, JR and Search, CP}, title = {Ultra-sensitive chip scale Sagnac gyroscope based on periodically modulated coupling of a coupled resonator optical waveguide.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {354-363}, doi = {10.1364/OE.20.000354}, pmid = {22274359}, issn = {1094-4087}, mesh = {*Acceleration ; Equipment Design ; Equipment Failure Analysis ; *Optical Devices ; Refractometry/*instrumentation ; Surface Plasmon Resonance/*instrumentation ; *Transducers ; }, abstract = {We analyze the sensitivity to inertial rotations Ω of a micron scale integrated gyroscope consisting of a coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW). We show here that by periodic modulation of the evanescent coupling between resonators, the sensitivity to rotations can be enhanced by a factor up to 10(9) in comparison to a conventional CROW with uniform coupling between resonators. Moreover, the overall shape of the transmission through this CROW superlattice is qualitatively changed resulting in a single sharp transmission resonance located at Ω = 0s-1 instead of a broad transmission band. The modulated coupling therefore allows the CROW gyroscope to operate without phase biasing and with sensitivities suitable for inertial navigation even with the inclusion of resonator losses.}, }
@article {pmid22271503, year = {2012}, author = {Barrai, I and Rodriguez-Larralde, A and Dipierri, J and Alfaro, E and Acevedo, N and Mamolini, E and Sandri, M and Carrieri, A and Scapoli, C}, title = {Surnames in Chile: a study of the population of Chile through isonymy.}, journal = {American journal of physical anthropology}, volume = {147}, number = {3}, pages = {380-388}, doi = {10.1002/ajpa.22000}, pmid = {22271503}, issn = {1096-8644}, mesh = {*Anthropology, Physical ; Chile ; Emigration and Immigration ; Female ; Hispanic or Latino/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Humans ; Inbreeding ; Indians, South American/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; *Names ; Principal Component Analysis ; White People/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {In Chile, the Hispanic dual surname system is used. To describe the isonymic structure of this country, the distribution of 16,277,255 surnames of 8,178,209 persons was studied in the 15 regions, the 54 provinces, and the 346 communes of the nation. The number of different surnames found was 72,667. Effective surname number (Fisher's α) for the entire country was 309.0, the average for regions was 240.8 ± 17.6, for provinces 209.2 ± 8.9, and for communes 178.7 ± 4.7. These values display a variation of inbreeding between administrative levels in the Chilean population, which can be attributed to the 'Prefecture effect' of Nei and Imaizumi. Matrices of isonymic distances between units within administrative levels were tested for correlation with geographic distance. The correlations were highest for provinces (r = 0.630 ± 0.019 for Euclidean distance) and lowest for communes (r = 0.366 ± 0.009 for Lasker's). The geographical distribution of the first three-dimensions of the Euclidean distance matrix suggests that population diffusion may have taken place from the north of the country toward the center and south. The prevalence of European plus European-Amerindian (95.4%) over Amerindian ethnicity (4.6%, CIA World Factbook) is compatible with diffusion of Caucasian groups over a low-density area populated by indigenous groups. The significant excess of maternal over paternal indigenous surnames indicates some asymmetric mating between nonAmerindian and Amerindian Chileans. The available studies of Y-markers and mt-markers are in agreement with this asymmetry. In the present work, we investigate the Chilean population with the aim of detecting its structure through the study of isonymy (Crow and Mange,1965) in the three administrative levels of the nation, namely 15 regions, 54 provinces, and 346 communes.}, }
@article {pmid22265752, year = {2012}, author = {Mohd Nasir, MT and Norimah, AK and Hazizi, AS and Nurliyana, AR and Loh, SH and Suraya, I}, title = {Child feeding practices, food habits, anthropometric indicators and cognitive performance among preschoolers in Peninsular Malaysia.}, journal = {Appetite}, volume = {58}, number = {2}, pages = {525-530}, doi = {10.1016/j.appet.2012.01.007}, pmid = {22265752}, issn = {1095-8304}, mesh = {*Anthropometry ; Body Height ; Body Mass Index ; Body Weight ; Child ; Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Diet ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; Humans ; Malaysia ; Male ; Parents ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Thinness ; }, abstract = {This study aimed to determine the relationship between child feeding practices, food habits, and anthropometric indicators with cognitive performance of preschoolers aged 4-6 years in Peninsular Malaysia (n=1933). Parents were interviewed on socio-demographic background, nutrition knowledge, child feeding practices and food habits. Height and weight of the preschoolers were measured; BMI-for-age, weight-for-age and height-for-age were determined. Cognitive performance was assessed using Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices. The mean monthly household income was RM3610 and 59.6% of parents attained secondary education. Thirty-three percent of parents had good knowledge on nutrition, 39% satisfactory and 28% poor. For child feeding practices, perceived responsibility had the highest mean score (M=3.99, SD=0.72), while perceived child weight had the lowest (M=2.94, SD=0.38). The prevalence of possible risk of overweight, being overweight, and obesity were 3.9%, 7.9% and 8.1%, respectively, whereas the prevalence of underweight and stunting were 8.0% and 8.4%, respectively. Breakfast was the second most frequently skipped meal (16.8%) after dinner (18.1%). The mean cognitive score was 103.5 (SD=14.4). Height-for-age and consumption of dinner were found to contribute significantly towards cognitive performance after controlling for socio-demographic background and parent's nutrition knowledge.}, }
@article {pmid22251243, year = {2013}, author = {Gomes, GB and da Costa, CT and Bonow, ML}, title = {Traumatic intrusion of permanent teeth: 10 years follow-up of 2 cases.}, journal = {Dental traumatology : official publication of International Association for Dental Traumatology}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {165-169}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-9657.2011.01105.x}, pmid = {22251243}, issn = {1600-9657}, mesh = {Child ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Radiography ; Tooth Avulsion/diagnostic imaging/*therapy ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {Intrusive luxation is a kind of traumatic injury characterized by an axial displacement of the tooth toward the alveolar bone. Its main causes are bicycle accidents, sports/recreational activities, and falls or collisions. Treatment strategies include waiting for the tooth to return to its position, immediate surgical repositioning, and repositioning through dental traction by orthodontic devices. In order to decide which treatment to follow, the degree of root formation, the patient's age, and intrusion severity should be taken into consideration. This study aimed to report a 10-year follow-up of two patients that suffered permanent incisor (PI) traumatic injury who had a similar root development (incomplete rooting) but different results. In the first case, the treatment of choice was follow-up. The patient showed gingival alteration and root resorption of tooth 21. Calcium hydroxide therapy and root canal filling were performed twice because of not attending callback. After finishing the endodontic treatment, follow-up visits showed no abnormalities. In the second case, the treatment of choice was watch and wait to the teeth 11 and 21. After 7 months spontaneous eruption of both teeth was detected. Radiographic examination showed atypical root formation and almost completely pulp canal obliteration, 8 years later. In the follow-up, visit after 10 years was observed complete crow and pulp canal obliteration. It was concluded that PI intrusion treatments are good intervention alternatives, as they proved to be successful after a 10-year follow-up period.}, }
@article {pmid22247391, year = {2012}, author = {Thinh, TV and Gilbert, M and Bunpapong, N and Amonsin, A and Nguyen, DT and Doherty, PF and Huyvaert, KP}, title = {Avian influenza viruses in wild land birds in northern Vietnam.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {48}, number = {1}, pages = {195-200}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-48.1.195}, pmid = {22247391}, issn = {1943-3700}, support = {HHSN266200700007C//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/virology ; Antibodies, Viral/*blood ; Birds/virology ; Female ; Influenza A virus/classification/*immunology ; Influenza in Birds/blood/*epidemiology/virology ; Male ; Sentinel Surveillance/*veterinary ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; Vietnam/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Given a paucity of data on the occurrence of avian influenza viruses (AIVs) in wild passerines and other small terrestrial species in Southeast Asia and the importance of highly pathogenic Asian-strain H5N1 outbreaks in humans and domestic poultry in these areas, we focused on surveillance for influenza A viral nucleic acids and antibodies for AIVs in wild-caught birds in northern Vietnam. Four of 197 serum samples collected in 2007 from Black-crested Bulbul (Pycnonotus melanicterus), Crow-billed Drongo (Dicrurus annectans), Buff-breasted Babbler (Pellorneum tickelli), and Black-browed Fulvetta (Alcippe grotei) were antibody positive for the H5 subtype. Fourteen of 193 samples collected in 2008 were positive for the influenza A viral M gene by real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. These included samples from 10 Japanese White-eyes (Zosterops japonicus), two Puff-throated Bulbuls (Alophoixus pallidus), one White-tailed Robin (Cinclidium leucurum), and one Striped Tit-babbler (Macronous gularis). Almost all positive samples were from bird species that forage in flocks, including Japanese White-eyes with an unusually high prevalence of 14.9%. We collected samples from birds from three habitat types but detected no strong pattern in prevalence. Our results suggest that attention should be given to terrestrial species, particularly flocking passerines, in AIV surveillance and monitoring programs.}, }
@article {pmid22243889, year = {2012}, author = {Sun, YX and Luo, XJ and Mo, L and Zhang, Q and Wu, JP and Chen, SJ and Zou, FS and Mai, BX}, title = {Brominated flame retardants in three terrestrial passerine birds from South China: geographical pattern and implication for potential sources.}, journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)}, volume = {162}, number = {}, pages = {381-388}, doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2011.12.013}, pmid = {22243889}, issn = {1873-6424}, mesh = {Animals ; China ; Electronics ; Environmental Exposure ; *Environmental Monitoring ; Environmental Pollutants/analysis/*metabolism ; Flame Retardants/analysis/*metabolism ; Hydrocarbons, Brominated/analysis/*metabolism ; Industrial Waste ; Passeriformes/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE), polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs) and pentabromotoluene (PBT) were investigated in light-vented bulbul (LVB), long-tailed shrike (LTS) and oriental magpie-robin (OMR) collected from seven sampling sites in South China. ∑PBDEs, DBDPE, PBB 153, and PBT levels ranged from 35 to 15,000, no detected (nd)-130, nd-6800, and nd-6.8 ng/g lipid weight, respectively. Positive correlations were found between δ(15)N values and brominated flame retardant (BFR) concentrations. The BFR geographic pattern indicated that PBDEs were linked to e-waste recycling and local industry activities as well as urbanization; PBB 153 was derived from e-waste; DBDPE was mainly come from local industry activities; and no specific source was observed for PBT. PBDE congener profiles were found to be depended on bird species and sampling sites with relatively high abundances of lower brominated congeners in e-waste site and significantly higher abundance of BDE153 in LTS and OMR than in LVB.}, }
@article {pmid22242144, year = {2011}, author = {Brañas-Garza, P and Rustichini, A}, title = {Organizing effects of testosterone and economic behavior: not just risk taking.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {6}, number = {12}, pages = {e29842}, pmid = {22242144}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adult ; Attitude ; *Economics ; Female ; Fingers/anatomy &amp; histology ; Humans ; Male ; Negotiating ; Regression Analysis ; *Risk-Taking ; Sex Characteristics ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Testosterone/*metabolism ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Recent literature emphasizes the role that testosterone, as well as markers indicating early exposure to T and its organizing effect on the brain (such as the ratio of second to fourth finger, [Formula: see text]), have on performance in financial markets. These results may suggest that the main effect of T, either circulating or in fetal exposure, on economic behavior occurs through the increased willingness to take risks. However, these findings indicate that traders with a low digit ratio are not only more profitable, but more able to survive in the long run, thus the effect might consist of more than just lower risk aversion. In addition, recent literature suggests a positive correlation between abstract reasoning ability and higher willingness to take risks. To test the two hypotheses of testosterone on performance in financial activities (effect on risk attitude versus a complex effect involving risk attitude and reasoning ability), we gather data on the three variables in a sample of 188 ethnically homogeneous college students (Caucasians). We measure a [Formula: see text] digit ratio, abstract reasoning ability with the Raven Progressive Matrices task, and risk attitude with choice among lotteries. Low digit ratio in men is associated with higher risk taking and higher scores in abstract reasoning ability when a combined measure of risk aversion over different tasks is used. This explains both the higher performance and higher survival rate observed in traders, as well as the observed correlation between abstract reasoning ability and risk taking. We also analyze how much of the total effect of digit ratio on risk attitude is direct, and how much is mediated. Mediation analysis shows that a substantial part of the effect of T on attitude to risk is mediated by abstract reasoning ability.}, }
@article {pmid22239911, year = {2012}, author = {Tachibana, Y and Yoshida, J and Ichinomiya, M and Nouchi, R and Miyauchi, C and Takeuchi, H and Tomita, N and Arai, H and Kawashima, R}, title = {A GO intervention program for enhancing elementary school children's cognitive functions and control abilities of emotion and behavior: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.}, journal = {Trials}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {8}, pmid = {22239911}, issn = {1745-6215}, mesh = {*Behavior Control ; Child ; *Child Behavior ; *Child Development ; *Cognition ; *Emotions ; *Executive Function ; Humans ; Japan ; Neuroimaging ; Neuronal Plasticity ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Play and Playthings ; *Research Design ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Executive function is critical for children's healthy development. We propose an intervention program to enhance children's executive function using the game, GO. Many neuroimaging studies have revealed that playing GO is related to executive function. In addition, previous studies also revealed that executive function can be enhanced by training. We will perform a randomized controlled trial to investigate the effectiveness of a GO intervention group and a control group without intervention.<br><br>METHODS/DESIGN: 35 elementary school children aged 8 to 10 were recruited from Edogawa elementary school in Tokyo, Japan. They will be randomized into two groups; either the 5-week GO intervention group or no-intervention control group. We will ask the participants of the intervention group to join the GO course which will be held once every week for five weeks (total: six times). In the GO course, the children will be taught GO by the GO masters of the Nihon Ki-in and enjoy it for an hour. Besides the course, the participants will perform GO problems about twenty minutes a day, three times a week during the intervention period. We will use the Stroop task, the digit span, the Raven's colored progressive matrices, the Span-board task, and the Behavioral inhibition/behavioral activation scale for the outcome measures. Outcomes will be measured at a baseline (Assessment 1) and 5 weeks after the intervention program started (Assessment 2). The intervention group will be compared with the control group using one-way analyses of covariance with the difference between Assessment 1 and Assessment 2 measures as dependent variables and pretest scores as covariates.<br><br>DISCUSSION: To our knowledge, this study will be the first RCT to investigate the efficacy of a GO intervention program for elementary school children. If this intervention is effective, we will be able to take the next steps in making an educational program to enhance children's executive function and other cognitive abilities using GO. In addition, we further will investigate the transfer effects of the GO intervention program through executive function. We also will investigate neuroplasticity with the GO intervention using neuroimaging.}, }
@article {pmid22225996, year = {2012}, author = {Leslie, SJ and Gelman, SA}, title = {Quantified statements are recalled as generics: evidence from preschool children and adults.}, journal = {Cognitive psychology}, volume = {64}, number = {3}, pages = {186-214}, pmid = {22225996}, issn = {1095-5623}, support = {R01 HD036043/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HD036043-11/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R56 HD036043/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; HD-36043/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Child Development/*physiology ; Child, Preschool ; Concept Formation/*physiology ; Evidence-Based Medicine ; Generalization, Psychological/*physiology ; Humans ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; Psychological Tests ; Semantics ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Generics are sentences such as "ravens are black" and "tigers are striped", which express generalizations concerning kinds. Quantified statements such as "all tigers are striped" or "most ravens are black" also express generalizations, but unlike generics, they specify how many members of the kind have the property in question. Recently, some theorists have proposed that generics express cognitively fundamental/default generalizations, and that quantified statements in contrast express cognitively more sophisticated generalizations (Gelman, 2010; Leslie, 2008). If this hypothesis is correct, then quantified statements may be remembered as generics. This paper presents four studies with 136 preschool children and 118 adults, demonstrating that adults and preschoolers alike tend to recall quantified statements as generics, thus supporting the hypothesis that generics express cognitively default generalizations.}, }
@article {pmid22219505, year = {2012}, author = {Abrahamson, S}, title = {James F. Crow: his life in public service.}, journal = {Genetics}, volume = {190}, number = {1}, pages = {1-4}, pmid = {22219505}, issn = {1943-2631}, mesh = {Genetics/history ; Health Services/history ; History, 20th Century ; Public Health/history ; United States ; }, abstract = {The readers of this journal may well be aware of Professor Crow's scientific achievements and his role as the editor of Perspectives. In addition, for many thousands of students at the University of Wisconsin over many generations, James F. Crow was one of the most memorable teachers at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. What is less known is his major role in public service where he served as chair of many important committees for the National Academy of Sciences, the National Institutes of Health, the National Institutes of Justice as well as various international programs. In all of these efforts, Professor Crow has left a lasting impact.}, }
@article {pmid22217722, year = {2012}, author = {Kondo, N and Izawa, E and Watanabe, S}, title = {Crows cross-modally recognize group members but not non-group members.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {279}, number = {1735}, pages = {1937-1942}, pmid = {22217722}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation ; *Animal Communication ; Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Hierarchy, Social ; Male ; Photic Stimulation ; *Recognition, Psychology ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Recognizing other individuals by integrating different sensory modalities is a crucial ability of social animals, including humans. Although cross-modal individual recognition has been demonstrated in mammals, the extent of its use by birds remains unknown. Herein, we report the first evidence of cross-modal recognition of group members by a highly social bird, the large-billed crow (Corvus macrorhynchos). A cross-modal expectancy violation paradigm was used to test whether crows were sensitive to identity congruence between visual presentation of a group member and the subsequent playback of a contact call. Crows looked more rapidly and for a longer duration when the visual and auditory stimuli were incongruent than when congruent. Moreover, these responses were not observed with non-group member stimuli. These results indicate that crows spontaneously associate visual and auditory information of group members but not of non-group members, which is a demonstration of cross-modal audiovisual recognition of group members in birds.}, }
@article {pmid22209954, year = {2012}, author = {Rutz, C and St Clair, JJ}, title = {The evolutionary origins and ecological context of tool use in New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {89}, number = {2}, pages = {153-165}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2011.11.005}, pmid = {22209954}, issn = {1872-8308}, support = {BB/G023913/1//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Appetitive Behavior ; *Biological Evolution ; *Crows ; *Environment ; New Caledonia ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian (NC) crows Corvus moneduloides are the most prolific avian tool users. In the wild, they use at least three distinct tool types to extract invertebrate prey from deadwood and vegetation, with some of their tools requiring complex manufacture, modification and/or deployment. Experiments with captive-bred, hand-raised NC crows have demonstrated that the species has a strong genetic predisposition for basic tool use and manufacture, suggesting that this behaviour is an evolved adaptation. This view is supported by recent stable-isotope analyses of the diets of wild crows, which revealed that tool use provides access to highly profitable hidden prey, with preliminary data indicating that parents preferentially feed their offspring with tool-derived food. Building on this work, our review examines the possible evolutionary origins of these birds' remarkable tool-use behaviour. Whilst robust comparative analyses are impossible, given the phylogenetic rarity of animal tool use, our examination of a wide range of circumstantial evidence enables a first attempt at reconstructing a plausible evolutionary scenario. We suggest that a common ancestor of NC crows, originating from a (probably) non-tool-using South-East Asian or Australasian crow population, colonised New Caledonia after its last emersion several million years ago. The presence of profitable but out-of-reach food, in combination with a lack of direct competition for these resources, resulted in a vacant woodpecker-like niche. Crows may have possessed certain behavioural and/or morphological features upon their arrival that predisposed them to express tool-use rather than specialised prey-excavation behaviour, although it is possible that woodpecker-like foraging preceded tool use. Low levels of predation risk may have further facilitated tool-use behaviour, by allowing greater expenditure of time and energy on object interaction and exploration, as well as the evolution of a 'slow' life-history, in which prolonged juvenile development enables acquisition of complex behaviours. Intriguingly, humans may well have influenced the evolution of at least some of the species' tool-oriented behaviours, via their possible introduction of candlenut trees together with the beetle larvae that infest them. Research on NC crows' tool-use behaviour in its full ecological context is still in its infancy, and we expect that, as more evidence accumulates, some of our assumptions and predictions will be proved wrong. However, it is clear from our analysis of existing work, and the development of some original ideas, that the unusual evolutionary trajectory of NC crows is probably the consequence of an intricate constellation of interplaying factors.}, }
@article {pmid23502563, year = {2012}, author = {Morange, M}, title = {Synthetic biology: a challenge to mechanical explanations in biology?.}, journal = {Perspectives in biology and medicine}, volume = {55}, number = {4}, pages = {543-553}, doi = {10.1353/pbm.2012.0048}, pmid = {23502563}, issn = {1529-8795}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bioengineering ; Biological Evolution ; *Biomedical Research ; Cooperative Behavior ; Humans ; Interdisciplinary Communication ; Models, Biological ; *Synthetic Biology ; Systems Biology ; }, abstract = {In their plans to modify organisms, synthetic biologists have contrasted engineering and tinkering. By drawing this contrast between their endeavors and what has happened during the evolution of organisms by natural selection, they underline the novelty of their projects and justify their ambitions. Synthetic biologists are at odds with a long tradition that has considered organisms as "perfect machines." This tradition had already been questioned by Stephen Jay Gould in the 1970s and received a major blow with the comparison made by François Jacob between organisms and the results of "bricolage" (tinkering). These contrasts between engineering and tinkering, synthetic biology and evolution, have no raison d'être. Machines built by humans are increasingly inspired by observations made on organisms. This is not a simple reversal of the previous trend-the mechanical conception of organisms-in which the characteristics of the latter were explained by comparison with human-built machines. Relations between organisms and machines have always been complex and ambiguous.}, }
@article {pmid22206038, year = {2011}, author = {Thiemann, TC and Wheeler, SS and Barker, CM and Reisen, WK}, title = {Mosquito host selection varies seasonally with host availability and mosquito density.}, journal = {PLoS neglected tropical diseases}, volume = {5}, number = {12}, pages = {e1452}, pmid = {22206038}, issn = {1935-2735}, support = {R01 AI055607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01-AI55607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/parasitology ; Blood Cells ; California ; Culex/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Humans ; Mammals/parasitology ; Population Density ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {Host selection by vector mosquitoes is a critical component of virus proliferation, particularly for viruses such as West Nile (WNV) that are transmitted enzootically to a variety of avian hosts, and tangentially to dead-end hosts such as humans. Culex tarsalis is a principal vector of WNV in rural areas of western North America. Based on previous work, Cx. tarsalis utilizes a variety of avian and mammalian hosts and tends to feed more frequently on mammals in the late summer than during the rest of the year. To further explore this and other temporal changes in host selection, bloodfed females were collected at a rural farmstead and heron nesting site in Northern California from May 2008 through May 2009, and bloodmeal hosts identified using either a microsphere-based array or by sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene. Host composition during summer was dominated by four species of nesting Ardeidae. In addition, the site was populated with various passerine species as well as domestic farm animals and humans. When present, Cx. tarsalis fed predominantly (>80%) upon the ardeids, with Black-crowned Night-Herons, a highly competent WNV host, the most prevalent summer host. As the ardeids fledged and left the area and mosquito abundance increased in late summer, Cx. tarsalis feeding shifted to include more mammals, primarily cattle, and a high diversity of avian species. In the winter, Yellow-billed Magpies and House Sparrows were the predominant hosts, and Yellow-billed Magpies and American Robins were fed upon more frequently than expected given their relative abundance. These data demonstrated that host selection was likely based both on host availability and differences in utilization, that the shift of bloodfeeding to include more mammalian hosts was likely the result of both host availability and increased mosquito abundance, and that WNV-competent hosts were fed upon by Cx. tarsalis throughout the year.}, }
@article {pmid22194779, year = {2011}, author = {Taylor, AH and Elliffe, DM and Hunt, GR and Emery, NJ and Clayton, NS and Gray, RD}, title = {New Caledonian crows learn the functional properties of novel tool types.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {6}, number = {12}, pages = {e26887}, pmid = {22194779}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Air ; Animals ; Appetitive Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; Discrimination Learning ; Female ; Learning/*physiology ; Learning Curve ; Male ; New Caledonia ; Silicon Dioxide ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; Water ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian crows were presented with Bird and Emery's (2009a) Aesop's fable paradigm, which requires stones to be dropped into a water-filled tube to bring floating food within reach. The crows did not spontaneously use stones as tools, but quickly learned to do so, and to choose objects and materials with functional properties. Some crows discarded both inefficient and non-functional objects before observing their effects on the water level. Interestingly, the crows did not learn to discriminate between functional and non-functional objects and materials when there was an arbitrary, rather than causal, link between object and reward. This finding suggests that the crows' performances were not based on associative learning alone. That is, learning was not guided solely by the covariation rate between stimuli and outcomes or the conditioned reinforcement properties acquired by functional objects. Our results, therefore, show that New Caledonian crows can process causal information not only when it is linked to sticks and stick-like tools but also when it concerns the functional properties of novel types of tool.}, }
@article {pmid22186631, year = {2012}, author = {Vakil, E and Lifshitz-Zehavi, H}, title = {Solving the Raven Progressive Matrices by adults with intellectual disability with/without Down syndrome: different cognitive patterns as indicated by eye-movements.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {33}, number = {2}, pages = {645-654}, doi = {10.1016/j.ridd.2011.11.009}, pmid = {22186631}, issn = {1873-3379}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*physiopathology ; Down Syndrome/diagnosis/*physiopathology ; *Eye Movements ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/diagnosis/*physiopathology ; Intelligence Tests ; Middle Aged ; Photic Stimulation/methods ; *Problem Solving ; Reaction Time ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Raven matrices are used for assessing fluid intelligence and the intellectual level of groups with low intelligence. Our study addresses qualitative analysis of information processing in Raven matrices performance among individuals with intellectual disability with that of their typically developed (TD) counterparts. Twenty-three adults with non-specific intellectual disability (NSID), 15 adults with Down syndrome (DS) and 35 children with TD matched for mental age, participated. Participants solved the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices and five items from the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices while having their eye movements monitored. The overall percent of correct answers was significantly higher for the TD group compared to two ID group. Comparison of the eye movement pattern of each group indicated that the TD group spent more time on the matrices before shifting to the options, than the two ID groups. The TD group made significantly less switches from one rejoins to another, than the ID groups. The difference in the scanning pattern between the TD and the ID groups is interpreted as a reflection of two different types of strategies, Constructive matching and Response elimination, respectively. There were no differences in eye scanning between participants with NSID and those with DS.}, }
@article {pmid22185481, year = {2011}, author = {Haugstvedt, A and Wentzel-Larsen, T and Rokne, B and Graue, M}, title = {Psychosocial family factors and glycemic control among children aged 1-15 years with type 1 diabetes: a population-based survey.}, journal = {BMC pediatrics}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {118}, pmid = {22185481}, issn = {1471-2431}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Blood Glucose ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/blood/*psychology ; Family/psychology ; Female ; Glycated Hemoglobin/*analysis ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Parenting ; Parents/*psychology ; Regression Analysis ; Social Support ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Being the parents of children with diabetes is demanding. Jay Belsky's determinants of parenting model emphasizes both the personal psychological resources, the characteristics of the child and contextual sources such as parents' work, marital relations and social network support as important determinants for parenting. To better understand the factors influencing parental functioning among parents of children with type 1 diabetes, we aimed to investigate associations between the children's glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and 1) variables related to the parents' psychological and contextual resources, and 2) frequency of blood glucose measurement as a marker for diabetes-related parenting behavior.<br><br>METHODS: Mothers (n = 103) and fathers (n = 97) of 115 children younger than 16 years old participated in a population-based survey. The questionnaire comprised the Life Orientation Test, the Oslo 3-item Social Support Scale, a single question regarding perceived social limitation because of the child's diabetes, the Relationship Satisfaction Scale and demographic and clinical variables. We investigated associations by using regression analysis. Related to the second aim hypoglycemic events, child age, diabetes duration, insulin regimen and comorbid diseases were included as covariates.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean HbA1c was 8.1%, and 29% had HbA1c &#x2264; 7.5%. In multiple regression analysis, lower HbA1c was associated with higher education and stronger perceptions of social limitation among the mothers. A higher frequency of blood glucose measurement was significantly associated with lower HbA1c in bivariate analysis. Higher child age was significantly associated with higher HbA1c both in bivariate and multivariate analysis. A scatterplot indicated this association to be linear.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Most families do not reach recommended treatment goals for their child with type 1 diabetes. Concerning contextual sources of stress and support, the families who successfully reached the treatment goals had mothers with higher education and experienced a higher degree of social limitations because of the child's diabetes. The continuous increasing HbA1c by age, also during the years before puberty, may indicate a need for further exploring the associations between child characteristics, context-related variables and parenting behavior such as factors facilitating the transfer of parents' responsibility and motivation for continued frequent treatment tasks to their growing children.}, }
@article {pmid22174181, year = {2011}, author = {Hartl, DL}, title = {James F. Crow and the art of teaching and mentoring.}, journal = {Genetics}, volume = {189}, number = {4}, pages = {1129-1133}, pmid = {22174181}, issn = {1943-2631}, support = {R01 GM065169/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 GM079536/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 GM084236/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Genetics/*education ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; *Mentors ; *Teaching ; United States ; }, abstract = {To honor James F. Crow on the occasion of his 95th birthday, GENETICS has commissioned a series of Perspectives and Reviews. For GENETICS to publish the honorifics is fitting, as from their birth Crow and GENETICS have been paired. Crow was scheduled to be born in January 1916, the same month that the first issue of GENETICS was scheduled to appear, and in the many years that Crow has made major contributions to the conceptual foundations of modern genetics, GENETICS has chronicled his and other major advances in the field. The commissioned Perspectives and Reviews summarize and celebrate Professor Crow's contributions as a research scientist, administrator, colleague, community supporter, international leader, teacher, and mentor. In science, Professor Crow was the international leader of his generation in the application of genetics to populations of organisms and in uncovering the role of genetics in health and disease. In education, he was a superb undergraduate teacher whose inspiration changed the career paths of many students. His teaching skills are legendary, his lectures urbane and witty, rigorous and clear. He was also an extraordinary mentor to numerous graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, many of whom went on to establish successful careers of their own. In public service, Professor Crow served in key administrative positions at the University of Wisconsin, participated as a member of numerous national and international committees, and served as president of both the Genetics Society of America and the American Society for Human Genetics. This Perspective examines Professor Crow as teacher and mentor through the eyes and experiences of one student who was enrolled in his genetics course as an undergraduate and who later studied with him as a graduate student.}, }
@article {pmid22174180, year = {2011}, author = {Turelli, M and Langley, C}, title = {Honoring our colleague James F. Crow, an outstanding gentleman, citizen, and scientist.}, journal = {Genetics}, volume = {189}, number = {4}, pages = {1127}, doi = {10.1534/genetics.111.135897}, pmid = {22174180}, issn = {1943-2631}, mesh = {Genetics ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid22173734, year = {2013}, author = {Shelomi, M}, title = {Mad scientist: the unique case of a published delusion.}, journal = {Science and engineering ethics}, volume = {19}, number = {2}, pages = {381-388}, pmid = {22173734}, issn = {1471-5546}, mesh = {Animals ; Biomedical Research/*ethics ; Deception ; *Delusions ; Editorial Policies ; Entomology ; Ethics, Research ; Humans ; Mites ; *Psychotic Disorders ; Publishing/*ethics ; Research Personnel/*ethics ; *Scientific Misconduct ; Social Discrimination/*ethics ; Unconscious, Psychology ; }, abstract = {In 1951, entomologist Jay Traver published in the Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington her personal experiences with a mite infestation of her scalp that resisted all treatment and was undetectable to anyone other than herself. Traver is recognized as having suffered from Delusory Parasitosis: her paper shows her to be a textbook case of the condition. The Traver paper is unique in the scientific literature in that its conclusions may be based on data that was unconsciously fabricated by the author's mind. The paper may merit retraction on the grounds of error or even scientific misconduct "by reason of insanity," but such a retraction raises the issue of discrimination against the mentally ill. This article asks what responsibilities journals have when faced with delusions disguised as science, what right editors have to question the sanity of an author, and what should be done about the Traver paper itself. By placing higher emphasis on article content than author identity, scientific integrity is maintained and a balance is struck between avoiding discrimination against the mentally ill and not preventing patients from seeking needed treatment.}, }
@article {pmid22167757, year = {2011}, author = {Kervan, U and Cicekcioglu, F and Tuluce, H and Ozen, A and Babaroglu, S and Karakas, S and Katircioglu, SF}, title = {Comparison of neurocognitive functions after beating-heart mitral valve replacement without aorta cross-clamping and after standard mitral valve replacement with cardioplegic arrest.}, journal = {The heart surgery forum}, volume = {14}, number = {6}, pages = {E335-9}, doi = {10.1532/HSF98.20101173}, pmid = {22167757}, issn = {1522-6662}, mesh = {Adult ; Anxiety/etiology ; *Cardiopulmonary Bypass ; Case-Control Studies ; Chi-Square Distribution ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology ; Depression/etiology ; Female ; *Heart Arrest, Induced ; Heart Valve Prosthesis Implantation/*methods ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Mitral Valve Insufficiency/*surgery ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Postoperative Period ; Psychometrics ; Recovery of Function ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to compare the postoperative long-term neurocognitive functions of patients who under-went beating-heart mitral valve replacement on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) without aorta cross-clamping with those of patients who underwent mitral valve replacement via the classic method.<br><br>METHODS: The study group included 25 randomly selected patients who underwent beating-heart mitral valve surgery. During the same period, 25 patients were randomly selected as controls to undergo mitral valve replacement procedures via the standard ascending aorta-cannulation technique. The clinical and postoperative (2 months) neurocognitive functional data of both groups were compared.<br><br>RESULTS: Neurologic deficit was observed in neither group during the postoperative period. There were no statistically significant differences between the control and the study groups with respect to Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) results (HADS: anxiety, P = .653; HADS: depression, P = .225), in the right hemispheric cognitive function test results (Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices [RSPM] and Line Orientation Test [LOT] tests: RSPM, P = .189), and in the left hemispheric cognitive function test results (the Ray Auditory Verbal Learning [RAVL] and Stroop Color-Word Test [SCWT] tests: SCWT 1 time, P = .300; SCWT 2 time, P = .679; SCWT 3 time, P = .336; SCWT 4 time, P = .852; SCWT 5 time, P = .416; RAVL total verbal learning, P = .167; RAVL immediate recall, P = .791; RAVL distraction trial, P = .199; RAVL retention, P = .174; RAVL delayed recall, P = .111; RAVL recognition, P = .282; SCWT 4 mistake, P = .306; SCWT 4 reform, P = .066; SCWT 5 mistake, P = .236; SCWT 5 reform, P = .301).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The technique of mitral valve replacement with normothermic CPB without cross-clamping of the aorta may be safely used for the majority of patients requiring mitral valve replacement without causing deterioration in neurocognitive functions.}, }
@article {pmid22153053, year = {2012}, author = {Abargouei, AS and Kalantari, N and Omidvar, N and Rashidkhani, B and Rad, AH and Ebrahimi, AA and Khosravi-Boroujeni, H and Esmaillzadeh, A}, title = {Refined carbohydrate intake in relation to non-verbal intelligence among Tehrani schoolchildren.}, journal = {Public health nutrition}, volume = {15}, number = {10}, pages = {1925-1931}, doi = {10.1017/S1368980011003302}, pmid = {22153053}, issn = {1475-2727}, mesh = {Child ; Child Development ; Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena/*physiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Diet/standards/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Dietary Carbohydrates/*administration &amp; dosage/classification ; Female ; Food Handling/*methods ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Iran ; Male ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Nutrition has long been considered one of the most important environmental factors affecting human intelligence. Although carbohydrates are the most widely studied nutrient for their possible effects on cognition, limited data are available linking usual refined carbohydrate intake and intelligence. The present study was conducted to examine the relationship between long-term refined carbohydrate intake and non-verbal intelligence among schoolchildren.<br><br>DESIGN: Cross-sectional study.<br><br>SETTING: Tehran, Iran.<br><br>SUBJECTS: In this cross-sectional study, 245 students aged 6-7 years were selected from 129 elementary schools in two western regions of Tehran. Anthropometric measurements were carried out. Non-verbal intelligence and refined carbohydrate consumption were determined using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices test and a modified sixty-seven-item FFQ, respectively. Data about potential confounding variables were collected. Linear regression analysis was applied to examine the relationship between non-verbal intelligence scores and refined carbohydrate consumption.<br><br>RESULTS: Individuals in top tertile of refined carbohydrate intake had lower mean non-verbal intelligence scores in the crude model (P < 0.038). This association remained significant after controlling for age, gender, birth date, birth order and breast-feeding pattern (P = 0.045). However, further adjustments for mother's age, mother's education, father's education, parental occupation and BMI made the association statistically non-significant. We found a significant inverse association between refined carbohydrate consumption and non-verbal intelligence scores in regression models (&#x3b2; = -11.359, P < 0.001). This relationship remained significant in multivariate analysis after controlling for potential confounders (&#x3b2; = -8.495, P = 0.038).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The study provides evidence indicating an inverse relationship between refined carbohydrate consumption and non-verbal intelligence among Tehrani children aged 6-7 years. Prospective studies are needed to confirm our findings.}, }
@article {pmid22151935, year = {2011}, author = {Peirano, RI and Achterberg, V and Düsing, HJ and Akhiani, M and Koop, U and Jaspers, S and Krüger, A and Schwengler, H and Hamann, T and Wenck, H and Stäb, F and Gallinat, S and Blatt, T}, title = {Dermal penetration of creatine from a face-care formulation containing creatine, guarana and glycerol is linked to effective antiwrinkle and antisagging efficacy in male subjects.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {10}, number = {4}, pages = {273-281}, doi = {10.1111/j.1473-2165.2011.00579.x}, pmid = {22151935}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Animals ; Cells, Cultured ; Collagen/*biosynthesis/genetics ; Creatine/*pharmacokinetics/pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Elasticity/drug effects ; Fibroblasts/metabolism ; Gene Expression ; Glycerol/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Humans ; In Vitro Techniques ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Paullinia ; Plant Extracts/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Procollagen/biosynthesis ; Skin/*drug effects/*metabolism ; Skin Absorption ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; Swine ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The dermal extracellular matrix provides stability and structure to the skin. With increasing age, however, its major component collagen is subject to degeneration, resulting in a gradual decline in skin elasticity and progression of wrinkle formation. Previous studies suggest that the reduction in cellular energy contributes to the diminished synthesis of cutaneous collagen during aging.<br><br>AIMS: &#x2002; To investigate the potential of topically applied creatine to improve the clinical signs of skin aging by stimulating dermal collagen synthesis in vitro and in vivo.<br><br>PATIENTS/METHODS: &#x2002; Penetration experiments were performed with a pig skin ex vivo model. Effects of creatine on dermal collagen gene expression and procollagen synthesis were studied in vitro using cultured fibroblast-populated collagen gels. In a single-center, controlled study, 43 male Caucasians applied a face-care formulation containing creatine, guarana extract, and glycerol to determine its influence on facial topometric features.<br><br>RESULTS: &#x2002; Cultured human dermal fibroblasts supplemented with creatine displayed a stimulation of collagen synthesis relative to untreated control cells both on the gene expression and at the protein level. In skin penetration experiments, topically applied creatine rapidly reached the dermis. In addition, topical in vivo application of a creatine-containing formulation for 6 weeks significantly reduced the sagging cheek intensity in the jowl area as compared to baseline. This result was confirmed by clinical live scoring, which also demonstrated a significant reduction in crow's feet wrinkles and wrinkles under the eyes.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: &#x2002; In summary, creatine represents a beneficial active ingredient for topical use in the prevention and treatment of human skin aging.}, }
@article {pmid22148903, year = {2012}, author = {Léger, L and Rouet, JF and Ros, C and Vibert, N}, title = {Orthographic versus semantic matching in visual search for words within lists.}, journal = {Canadian journal of experimental psychology = Revue canadienne de psychologie experimentale}, volume = {66}, number = {1}, pages = {32-43}, doi = {10.1037/a0026111}, pmid = {22148903}, issn = {1878-7290}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; *Eye Movements ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Reaction Time ; *Reading ; *Semantics ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {An eye-tracking experiment was performed to assess the influence of orthographic and semantic distractor words on visual search for words within lists. The target word (e.g., "raven") was either shown to participants before the search (literal search) or defined by its semantic category (e.g., "bird", categorical search). In both cases, the type of words included in the list affected visual search times and eye movement patterns. In the literal condition, the presence of orthographic distractors sharing initial and final letters with the target word strongly increased search times. Indeed, the orthographic distractors attracted participants' gaze and were fixated for longer times than other words in the list. The presence of semantic distractors related to the target word also increased search times, which suggests that significant automatic semantic processing of nontarget words took place. In the categorical condition, semantic distractors were expected to have a greater impact on the search task. As expected, the presence in the list of semantic associates of the target word led to target selection errors. However, semantic distractors did not significantly increase search times any more, whereas orthographic distractors still did. Hence, the visual characteristics of nontarget words can be strong predictors of the efficiency of visual search even when the exact target word is unknown. The respective impacts of orthographic and semantic distractors depended more on the characteristics of lists than on the nature of the search task.}, }
@article {pmid22145717, year = {2011}, author = {Imber-Black, E}, title = {Welcoming Jay Lebow, Ph.D.: incoming editor of Family Process.}, journal = {Family process}, volume = {50}, number = {4}, pages = {434-435}, doi = {10.1111/j.1545-5300.2011.01378.x}, pmid = {22145717}, issn = {1545-5300}, mesh = {Family Health/*history ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Periodicals as Topic/*history ; }, }
@article {pmid22139009, year = {2012}, author = {Mutafchiev, Y and Mariaux, J and Georgiev, BB}, title = {Acuaria paraguayensis n. sp. from Sirystes sibilator (Aves: Tyrannidae) in Paraguay and a redescription of A. mamillaris (Molin, 1860) from Cyanocorax cayanus (Corvidae) in Brazil, with a key to the species of Acuaria Bremser, 1811 (Nematoda: Acuariidae) in the New World.}, journal = {Systematic parasitology}, volume = {81}, number = {1}, pages = {51-64}, pmid = {22139009}, issn = {1573-5192}, mesh = {Animal Structures/ultrastructure ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/parasitology ; Brazil/epidemiology ; Female ; Male ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Nematoda/*anatomy &amp; histology/*classification/isolation &amp; purification ; Nematode Infections/epidemiology/parasitology/*veterinary ; Paraguay/epidemiology ; Passeriformes/*parasitology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Acuaria paraguayensis n. sp. is described on the basis of specimens from Sirystes sibilator (Vieillot) (Aves: Passeriformes, Tyrannidae) in Paraguay. In addition, A. mamillaris (Molin, 1860) from Cyanocorax cayanus (L.) (Corvidae) in Brazil is redescribed on the basis of its type-series from the collection of the Naturhistorisches Museum, Vienna. A review of the species of Acuaria Bremser, 1811 in the New World is presented. Currently, 16 species belong to this genus, which are mostly parasitic in passeriform birds (one record in piciform birds). An identification key to the species of Acuaria occurring in the New World is presented. Acuaria multispinosa (Vigueras, 1938) originally described from Botaurus lentiginosus (Rackett) (Ardeidae) in Cuba, also known from various herons (Ciconiiformes, Ardeidae) in southern states of the USA, does not correspond to the generic diagnosis of Acuaria and is considered a species incertae sedis. Acuaria gracilis var. sturni Boyd, 1951 is elevated to full species rank as Acuaria sturni Boyd, 1951.}, }
@article {pmid22129418, year = {2011}, author = {Su, T and Cheng, ML}, title = {Are fly maggots useful for West Nile virus testing in dead crow carcasses?.}, journal = {Journal of vector ecology : journal of the Society for Vector Ecology}, volume = {36}, number = {2}, pages = {451-453}, doi = {10.1111/j.1948-7134.2011.00187.x}, pmid = {22129418}, issn = {1948-7134}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Crows/*parasitology/*virology ; Diptera ; Larva ; Molecular Epidemiology/methods ; West Nile Fever/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, }
@article {pmid22127056, year = {2011}, author = {Pika, S and Bugnyar, T}, title = {The use of referential gestures in ravens (Corvus corax) in the wild.}, journal = {Nature communications}, volume = {2}, number = {}, pages = {560}, pmid = {22127056}, issn = {2041-1723}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Austria ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Around the age of one year, human children start to use gestures to coordinate attention towards a social partner and an object of mutual interest. These referential gestures have been suggested as the foundation to engage in language, and have so far only been observed in great apes. Virtually nothing is known about comparable skills in non-primate species. Here we record thirty-eight social interactions between seven raven (Corvus corax) dyads in the Northern Alps, Austria during three consecutive field seasons. All observed behaviours included the showing and/or offering of non-edible items (for example, moss, twigs) to recipients, leading to frequent orientation of receivers to the object and the signallers and subsequent affiliative interactions. We report evidence that the use of declarative gestures is not restricted to the primate lineage and that these gestures may function as 'testing-signals' to evaluate the interest of a potential partner or to strengthen an already existing bond.}, }
@article {pmid22109068, year = {2011}, author = {Mitsui, T and Onodera, T and Wakayama, Y and Hayashi, T and Ikeda, N and Sugimoto, Y and Takamasu, T and Oikawa, H}, title = {Influence of micro-joints formed between spheres in coupled-resonator optical waveguide.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {19}, number = {22}, pages = {22258-22267}, doi = {10.1364/OE.19.022258}, pmid = {22109068}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {Light propagation is simulated through coupled-resonator optical waveguides (CROWs) composed of seven transparent polystyrene microspheres, including micro-joints formed between the spheres. In nanojet-induced mode (NIM) light propagation, the micro-joints increased the optical coupling between microspheres drastically, and the light confinement by individual microspheres weakened as the micro-joint diameter increases. These results suggest that we can control NIM light propagation by changing the micro-joint diameter; this amounts to a nanojet throttle valve.}, }
@article {pmid22109065, year = {2011}, author = {Lei, T and Poon, AW}, title = {Modeling of coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) based refractive index sensors using pixelized spatial detection at a single wavelength.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {19}, number = {22}, pages = {22227-22241}, doi = {10.1364/OE.19.022227}, pmid = {22109065}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {We model and analyze coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) based refractive index (RI) sensors using pixelized spatial detection. Our modeled cascaded Fabry-Perot (FP) CROWs reveal that the intra-band states mode-field distributions vary upon effective RI change at a single wavelength. The spatial Fourier transform of the CROW mode-field distributions, with each cavity field intensity integrated as a pixel, shows spatial frequency peak shift, which constitutes the basis of such a spatial domain sensor. The spatial domain sensing performance depends on the cavity number, the cavity length and the inter-cavity coupling. Our modeled 21-element CROW sensor attains a detection limit of 10(-4) refractive index unit (RIU) with a sensing dynamic range of 10(-3) RIU. Detailed analysis of the spatial frequency harmonic peak amplitude variation further suggests an improved detection limit. Finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulations of an 11-element microring CROW device shows sensitivity consistent with the FP modeling.}, }
@article {pmid22102664, year = {2011}, author = {Naidoo, V and Mompati, KF and Duncan, N and Taggart, MA}, title = {The Pied Crow (Corvus albus) is insensitive to diclofenac at concentrations present in carrion.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {47}, number = {4}, pages = {936-944}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-47.4.936}, pmid = {22102664}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/administration &amp; dosage/*toxicity ; Bird Diseases/*chemically induced/mortality ; *Crows ; Diclofenac/administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; *Falconiformes ; Female ; Male ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {Diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), kills vultures (Gyps spp.) that consume tainted carcasses. As a result, vulture populations in India, Nepal, and Pakistan have been devastated. Studies on meloxicam and ketoprofen demonstrated that the toxicity of the NSAIDs is unpredictable, thereby necessitating individual testing of all available NSAIDs. Because it is no longer practical to use vultures for toxicity testing, we evaluated the Pied Crow (Corvus albus) as a model. Pied Crows (n=6) were exposed to a dose of 0.8 and 10 mg/kg of diclofenac, with no signs of toxicity, and a rapid half-life of elimination. Using primary renal cell and hepatocyte cultures, a high tolerance was demonstrated at the cellular level. Meta-analysis of pharmacokinetic data for the Domestic Chicken (Gallus gallus) and the African White-backed (Gyps africanus), Cape Griffon (Gyps coprotheres), and Turkey Vultures (Cathartes aura) showed a trend toward toxicity when the half-life of elimination increased. We conclude that the crow is not susceptible to diclofenac and, more important, that toxicity in the Gyps species is probably related to zero-order metabolism.}, }
@article {pmid22091261, year = {2011}, author = {Rahmani, K and Djazayery, A and Habibi, MI and Heidari, H and Dorosti-Motlagh, AR and Pourshahriari, M and Azadbakht, L}, title = {Effects of daily milk supplementation on improving the physical and mental function as well as school performance among children: results from a school feeding program.}, journal = {Journal of research in medical sciences : the official journal of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {469-476}, pmid = {22091261}, issn = {1735-7136}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: School feeding programs are important interventions for improving the nutritional status of students. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the effects of milk supplementation on physical, mental and school performance of students.<br><br>METHODS: This case-control population-based intervention was conducted on 469 students from 4 schools in a medium socio-economic status region in Tehran. The schools were chosen by Iranian ministry of education and training and they were allocated in case and control groups randomly. All the students in the first to third classes in the intervention schools were daily consumed sterilized and homogenized milk for three months (250 ml each). Anthropometric measurements were done according to the standard methods. For evaluating the mental function, the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM) and Wechsler Intelligence Scale for children (verbal, non-verbal, total Intelligent Quotient) were conducted on students. School performance was assessed by grade-point averages of each student.<br><br>RESULTS: The weight of children was significantly different between control and intervention group at the end of the study among girls (23.0 &#xb1; 3.8 vs. 23.8 &#xb1; 4.3 kg; p < 0.05). Psychological tests' scores were significantly different between the control and the intervention groups (p < 0.05) at the end of the trial among boys. The grade-point average was significantly different at the end of the trial between the intervention and the control group among girls (p < 0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: School feeding programs focus on milk supplementation had beneficial effects on the physical function and school performances specifically among girls in Iran.}, }
@article {pmid22076834, year = {2012}, author = {Berenson, GS and , }, title = {Health consequences of obesity.}, journal = {Pediatric blood &amp; cancer}, volume = {58}, number = {1}, pages = {117-121}, doi = {10.1002/pbc.23373}, pmid = {22076834}, issn = {1545-5017}, support = {AG-16592/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; HD-061437/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; HL-38844/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Cardiovascular Diseases/epidemiology/*etiology/prevention &amp; control ; Child ; Diabetes Mellitus/epidemiology/*etiology/prevention &amp; control ; Epidemiologic Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Obesity/*complications/epidemiology ; Prognosis ; Risk Factors ; United States ; }, abstract = {Epidemiologic studies have established that cardiovascular (CV) risk factors including obesity are identifiable in childhood. Childhood risk factors are predictive of adult cardiac risk and even premature death [Franks et al. (2010) N Engl J Med 362:485-493]. In the United States, CV diseases remains the leading causes of death. In fact, heart disease has become the major cause of death worldwide, surpassing undernutrition and infectious diseases, largely related to obesity in childhood [Wang and Lobstein (2006) Int J Pediatr Obes 1:11-25]. The concept that adult heart diseases begin in childhood is an outgrowth of extensive long-term epidemiologic studies in youth, that is, the Bogalusa Heart Study [Berenson et al. (1986) Causation of cardiovascular risk factors in children: Perspectives on cardiovascular risk in early life, Raven Press Books Ltd].}, }
@article {pmid22073444, year = {2011}, author = {Puckett, DJ}, title = {Reporting on the Holocaust: the view from Jim Crow Alabama.}, journal = {Holocaust and genocide studies}, volume = {25}, number = {2}, pages = {219-251}, doi = {10.1093/hgs/dcr033}, pmid = {22073444}, issn = {8756-6583}, mesh = {Alabama/ethnology ; *Cross-Cultural Comparison ; Germany/ethnology ; Hierarchy, Social/history ; History, 20th Century ; Holocaust/economics/ethnology/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; Humans ; *Mass Media/economics/history ; *Population Groups/education/ethnology/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; *Prejudice ; *Race Relations/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; Social Problems/economics/ethnology/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; *Violence/economics/ethnology/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; World War II ; }, abstract = {The press in Alabama covered major events taking place in Germany from the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazis in 1933 through the Nuremberg Trials in 1946. Journalists in the state provided extensive coverage, and editors did not hesitate to opine on the persecution of the Jews in Europe. Yet, Alabama’s white-run press failed in the end to explain the events as a singularly Jewish tragedy. The state’s black-run press, for its part, used the news of the mass killings of the Jews to warn against the dangers of conceptions of racial superiority—a primary concern for black southerners living in the Jim Crow South.}, }
@article {pmid22072603, year = {2012}, author = {Lenda, M and Skórka, P and Knops, JM and Morón, D and Tworek, S and Woyciechowski, M}, title = {Plant establishment and invasions: an increase in a seed disperser combined with land abandonment causes an invasion of the non-native walnut in Europe.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {279}, number = {1733}, pages = {1491-1497}, pmid = {22072603}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Agriculture ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Crows/*physiology ; Europe ; *Introduced Species ; Juglans/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; *Seed Dispersal ; Seeds/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Successful invasive species often are established for a long time period before increasing exponentially in abundance. This lag phase is one of the least understood phenomena of biological invasions. Plant invasions depend on three factors: a seed source, suitable habitat and a seed disperser. The non-native walnut, Juglans regia, has been planted for centuries in Central Europe but, until recently, has not spread beyond planted areas. However, in the past 20 years, we have observed a rapid increase in walnut abundance, specifically in abandoned agricultural fields. The dominant walnut disperser is the rook, Corvus frugilegus. During the past 50 years, rooks have increased in abundance and now commonly inhabit human settlements, where walnut trees are planted. Central Europe has, in the past few decades, experienced large-scale land abandonment. Walnut seeds dispersed into ploughed fields do not survive, but when cached into ploughed and then abandoned fields, they successfully establish. Rooks preferentially cache seeds in ploughed fields. Thus, land-use change combined with disperser changes can cause rapid increase of a non-native species, allowing it to become invasive. This may have cascading effects on the entire ecosystem. Thus, species that are non-native and not invasive can become invasive as habitats and dispersers change.}, }
@article {pmid22056967, year = {2012}, author = {van der Kruijs, SJ and Bodde, NM and Vaessen, MJ and Lazeron, RH and Vonck, K and Boon, P and Hofman, PA and Backes, WH and Aldenkamp, AP and Jansen, JF}, title = {Functional connectivity of dissociation in patients with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures.}, journal = {Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry}, volume = {83}, number = {3}, pages = {239-247}, doi = {10.1136/jnnp-2011-300776}, pmid = {22056967}, issn = {1468-330X}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Brain/physiopathology ; Case-Control Studies ; Dissociative Disorders/*physiopathology ; Electroencephalography ; Emotions/physiology ; Executive Function/physiology ; Female ; Functional Neuroimaging ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neural Pathways/physiopathology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychophysiologic Disorders/*physiopathology ; Seizures/etiology/*physiopathology ; Stroop Test ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) resemble epileptic seizures, but lack epileptiform brain activity. Instead, the cause is assumed to be psychogenic. An abnormal coping strategy may be exhibited by PNES patients, as indicated by their increased tendency to dissociate. Investigation of resting-state networks may reveal altered routes of information and emotion processing in PNES patients. The authors therefore investigated whether PNES patients differ from healthy controls in their resting-state functional connectivity characteristics and whether these connections are associated with the tendency to dissociate.<br><br>METHODS: 11 PNES patients without psychiatric comorbidity and 12 healthy controls underwent task-related paradigms (picture-encoding and Stroop paradigms) and resting-state functional MRI (rsfMRI). Global cognitive performance was tested using the Raven's Matrices test and participants completed questionnaires for evaluating dissociation. Functional connectivity analysis on rsfMRI was based on seed regions extracted from task-related fMRI activation maps.<br><br>RESULTS: The patients displayed a significantly lower cognitive performance and significantly higher dissociation scores. No significant differences were found between the picture-encoding and Stroop colour-naming activation maps between controls and patients with PNES. However, functional connectivity maps from the rsfMRI were statistically different. For PNES patients, stronger connectivity values between areas involved in emotion (insula), executive control (inferior frontal gyrus and parietal cortex) and movement (precentral sulcus) were observed, which were significantly associated with dissociation scores.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The abnormal, strong functional connectivity in PNES patients provides a neurophysiological correlate for the underlying psychoform and somatoform dissociation mechanism where emotion can influence executive control, resulting in altered motor function (eg, seizure-like episodes).}, }
@article {pmid22048890, year = {2012}, author = {Cheke, LG and Clayton, NS}, title = {Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius) overcome their current desires to anticipate two distinct future needs and plan for them appropriately.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {8}, number = {2}, pages = {171-175}, pmid = {22048890}, issn = {1744-957X}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; //Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Appetite ; Cognition ; Cues ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Food ; Male ; *Motivation ; Songbirds/*physiology ; Time Perception ; }, abstract = {Western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) have been shown to overcome present satiety to cache food they will desire in the future. Here, we show that another corvid, the Eurasian jay (Garrulus glandarius), can distinguish between two distinct future desires and plan for each appropriately, despite experiencing a conflicting current motivation. We argue that these data address the criticisms of previous work, and suggest a way in which associative learning processes and future-oriented cognition may combine to allow prospective behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid22046115, year = {2011}, author = {Gustafson, NJ and Daw, ND}, title = {Grid cells, place cells, and geodesic generalization for spatial reinforcement learning.}, journal = {PLoS computational biology}, volume = {7}, number = {10}, pages = {e1002235}, pmid = {22046115}, issn = {1553-7358}, support = {R01 MH087882/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH087882-03/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; MH087882/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Computer Simulation ; Entorhinal Cortex/cytology/*physiology ; Hippocampus/cytology/*physiology ; Maze Learning/*physiology ; *Models, Neurological ; Neurons/physiology ; Rats ; *Reinforcement, Psychology ; Spatial Behavior ; }, abstract = {Reinforcement learning (RL) provides an influential characterization of the brain's mechanisms for learning to make advantageous choices. An important problem, though, is how complex tasks can be represented in a way that enables efficient learning. We consider this problem through the lens of spatial navigation, examining how two of the brain's location representations--hippocampal place cells and entorhinal grid cells--are adapted to serve as basis functions for approximating value over space for RL. Although much previous work has focused on these systems' roles in combining upstream sensory cues to track location, revisiting these representations with a focus on how they support this downstream decision function offers complementary insights into their characteristics. Rather than localization, the key problem in learning is generalization between past and present situations, which may not match perfectly. Accordingly, although neural populations collectively offer a precise representation of position, our simulations of navigational tasks verify the suggestion that RL gains efficiency from the more diffuse tuning of individual neurons, which allows learning about rewards to generalize over longer distances given fewer training experiences. However, work on generalization in RL suggests the underlying representation should respect the environment's layout. In particular, although it is often assumed that neurons track location in Euclidean coordinates (that a place cell's activity declines "as the crow flies" away from its peak), the relevant metric for value is geodesic: the distance along a path, around any obstacles. We formalize this intuition and present simulations showing how Euclidean, but not geodesic, representations can interfere with RL by generalizing inappropriately across barriers. Our proposal that place and grid responses should be modulated by geodesic distances suggests novel predictions about how obstacles should affect spatial firing fields, which provides a new viewpoint on data concerning both spatial codes.}, }
@article {pmid22042528, year = {2011}, author = {Biernacki, M and Tarnowski, A}, title = {The effect of age and personality on the main cognitive processes in drivers.}, journal = {International journal of occupational medicine and environmental health}, volume = {24}, number = {4}, pages = {367-379}, doi = {10.2478/s13382-011-0035-x}, pmid = {22042528}, issn = {1896-494X}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aging/*psychology ; Automobile Driving/*psychology ; *Cognition ; Extraversion, Psychological ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neurotic Disorders/psychology ; Personality/*physiology ; Poland ; Regression Analysis ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study is the evaluation of how the decline of cognitive abilities caused by aging is moderated by biologically determined personality dimensions: Neuroticism (N) and Extraversion (E).<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: The research was conducted with the participation of 160 men in good physical health, professional drivers, aged 20-70 (Mean = 40, SD = 11). Personality traits were measured using Eysenck's Personality Questionnaire - Revised (EPQ-R), while Ravens Progressive Matrices, Go/noGo Task and Peripheral Perception Test were used to evaluate cognitive processes. The score of Ravens Progressive Matrices was treated as a control variable.<br><br>RESULTS: The results of the study, based on a Hierarchical Multiple Regression Analysis, indicate that besides the intelligence level, age is the best predictor of cognitive functioning level and that this influence is additionally moderated by the N trait level as well as, less frequently, by the interaction of age and E.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This means that high N trait level increases the influence of age on cognitive functions decline. When the N trait level was low, the age differences in measures of cognitive performance were not significant. Thus, the level of N trait may play an important role in the process of cognitive aging. The results are discussed in the context of a driving safety research.}, }
@article {pmid22039986, year = {2012}, author = {Møller, AP and Peralta-Sánchez, JM and Nielsen, JT and López-Hernández, E and Soler, JJ}, title = {Goshawk prey have more bacteria than non-prey.}, journal = {The Journal of animal ecology}, volume = {81}, number = {2}, pages = {403-410}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2656.2011.01923.x}, pmid = {22039986}, issn = {1365-2656}, mesh = {Animals ; Bacteria/*isolation &amp; purification ; Bacterial Load ; Colony Count, Microbial ; Columbidae/microbiology ; Denmark ; Feathers/*microbiology ; *Food Chain ; Fungi/*isolation &amp; purification ; Hawks/*physiology ; Predatory Behavior ; Songbirds/microbiology ; }, abstract = {1. Predators often prey on individuals that are sick or otherwise weakened. Although previous studies have shown higher abundance of parasites in prey, whether prey have elevated loads of micro-organisms remains to be determined. 2. We quantified the abundance of bacteria and fungi on feathers of woodpigeons Columba palumbus L., jays Garrulus glandarius L. and blackbirds Turdus merula L. that either fell prey to goshawks Accipiter gentilis L. or were not depredated. 3. We found an almost three-fold increase in bacterial load of prey compared with non-prey, while there was no significant difference between prey and non-prey in level of fungal infection of the plumage. 4. The results were not confounded by differences in size or mass of feathers, date of collection of feathers, or date of analysis of feathers for micro-organisms. 5. These findings suggest a previously unknown contribution of bacteria to risk of predation, with important implications for behaviour, population ecology and community ecology.}, }
@article {pmid22024660, year = {2012}, author = {Dunlap, AS and Stephens, DW}, title = {Tracking a changing environment: optimal sampling, adaptive memory and overnight effects.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {89}, number = {2}, pages = {86-94}, pmid = {22024660}, issn = {1872-8308}, support = {K12 GM000708/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; T32 HD007151/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Appetitive Behavior ; *Choice Behavior ; *Environment ; *Learning ; *Memory ; Models, Psychological ; Passeriformes ; Retention, Psychology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Foraging in a variable environment presents a classic problem of decision making with incomplete information. Animals must track the changing environment, remember the best options and make choices accordingly. While several experimental studies have explored the idea that sampling behavior reflects the amount of environmental change, we take the next logical step in asking how change influences memory. We explore the hypothesis that memory length should be tied to the ecological relevance and the value of the information learned, and that environmental change is a key determinant of the value of memory. We use a dynamic programming model to confirm our predictions and then test memory length in a factorial experiment. In our experimental situation we manipulate rates of change in a simple foraging task for blue jays over a 36 h period. After jays experienced an experimentally determined change regime, we tested them at a range of retention intervals, from 1 to 72 h. Manipulated rates of change influenced learning and sampling rates: subjects sampled more and learned more quickly in the high change condition. Tests of retention revealed significant interactions between retention interval and the experienced rate of change. We observed a striking and surprising difference between the high and low change treatments at the 24h retention interval. In agreement with earlier work we find that a circadian retention interval is special, but we find that the extent of this 'specialness' depends on the subject's prior experience of environmental change. Specifically, experienced rates of change seem to influence how subjects balance recent information against past experience in a way that interacts with the passage of time.}, }
@article {pmid22023818, year = {2011}, author = {Novack, GD}, title = {Stephen Jay Gould and statistics, 2011 version.}, journal = {The ocular surface}, volume = {9}, number = {4}, pages = {239-241}, doi = {10.1016/s1542-0124(11)70037-4}, pmid = {22023818}, issn = {1542-0124}, mesh = {*Data Interpretation, Statistical ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Statistics as Topic/*history ; }, }
@article {pmid21996994, year = {2011}, author = {Matsuda, N and Kato, T and Harada, K and Takesue, H and Kuramochi, E and Taniyama, H and Notomi, M}, title = {Slow light enhanced optical nonlinearity in a silicon photonic crystal coupled-resonator optical waveguide.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {19}, number = {21}, pages = {19861-19874}, doi = {10.1364/OE.19.019861}, pmid = {21996994}, issn = {1094-4087}, mesh = {Computer Simulation ; Crystallization ; Electromagnetic Radiation ; Electrons ; Light ; Models, Statistical ; Optics and Photonics/*methods ; Photons ; Silicon/chemistry ; }, abstract = {We demonstrate highly enhanced optical nonlinearity in a coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) in a four-wave mixing experiment. Using a CROW consisting of 200 coupled resonators based on width-modulated photonic crystal nanocavities in a line defect, we obtained an effective nonlinear constant exceeding 10,000 /W/m, thanks to slow light propagation combined with a strong spatial confinement of light achieved by the wavelength-sized cavities.}, }
@article {pmid21972336, year = {2011}, author = {Francis, GS}, title = {Neurohormonal control of heart failure.}, journal = {Cleveland Clinic journal of medicine}, volume = {78 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {S75-9}, doi = {10.3949/ccjm.78.s1.13}, pmid = {21972336}, issn = {1939-2869}, mesh = {Adrenergic beta-Antagonists/therapeutic use ; Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Blockers/therapeutic use ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors/therapeutic use ; Antihypertensive Agents/therapeutic use ; Heart Failure/*pathology ; Humans ; *Neurotransmitter Agents ; *Psychophysiology ; }, abstract = {For nearly three decades, starting in the early 1970s, the cardiology research laboratories at the University of Minnesota served as the focal point for the discovery and implementation of much of the information we now apply to the management of heart failure. Director Jay Cohn, building on his expertise in hypertension and hemodynamics, led many creative and committed investigators in the exploration of the mechanisms responsible for increased sensitivity to afterload in heart failure. The neurohormonal hypothesis of heart failure led to the development of several pharmacologic tools, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, β-adrenergic blockers, and, later, angiotensin-receptor blockers. By the late 1990s, it was understood that neurohormonal antagonists could prevent the progression of left ventricular remodeling and favorably influence the natural history of heart failure. Neurohormonal blockers are now considered standard therapy. Issues remain to be addressed, including early identification and treatment of patients at risk.}, }
@article {pmid21991394, year = {2011}, author = {Soulières, I and Dawson, M and Gernsbacher, MA and Mottron, L}, title = {The level and nature of autistic intelligence II: what about Asperger syndrome?.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {6}, number = {9}, pages = {e25372}, pmid = {21991394}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {MOP-84243//Canadian Institutes of Health Research/Canada ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Algorithms ; Asperger Syndrome/*diagnosis ; Autistic Disorder/*diagnosis/psychology ; Child ; Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Speech ; Wechsler Scales ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {A distinctively uneven profile of intelligence is a feature of the autistic spectrum. Within the spectrum, Asperger individuals differ from autistics in their early speech development and in being less likely to be characterized by visuospatial peaks. While different specific strengths characterize different autistic spectrum subgroups, all such peaks of ability have been interpreted as deficits: isolated, aberrant, and irreconcilable with real human intelligence. This view has recently been challenged by findings of autistic strengths in performance on Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM), an important marker of general and fluid intelligence. We investigated whether these findings extend to Asperger syndrome, an autistic spectrum subgroup characterized by verbal peaks of ability, and whether the cognitive mechanisms underlying autistic and Asperger RPM performance differ. Thirty-two Asperger adults displayed a significant advantage on RPM over Wechsler Full-Scale and Performance scores relative to their typical controls, while in 25 Asperger children an RPM advantage was found over Wechsler Performance scores only. As previously found with autistics, Asperger children and adults achieved RPM scores at a level reflecting their Wechsler peaks of ability. Therefore, strengths in RPM performance span the autistic spectrum and imply a common mechanism advantageously applied to different facets of cognition. Autistic spectrum intelligence is atypical, but also genuine, general, and underestimated.}, }
@article {pmid21985278, year = {2011}, author = {Toftager, M and Christiansen, LB and Kristensen, PL and Troelsen, J}, title = {SPACE for physical activity--a multicomponent intervention study: study design and baseline findings from a cluster randomized controlled trial.}, journal = {BMC public health}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {777}, pmid = {21985278}, issn = {1471-2458}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Anthropometry ; Child ; Cluster Analysis ; Data Collection ; Denmark ; *Environment Design ; Exercise/*physiology ; Female ; *Health Promotion/organization &amp; administration ; Humans ; Male ; Outcome Assessment, Health Care ; Physical Fitness/*physiology ; Research Design ; *Schools ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The aim of the School site, Play Spot, Active transport, Club fitness and Environment (SPACE) Study was to develop, document, and assess a comprehensive intervention in local school districts that promote everyday physical activity (PA) among 11-15-year-old adolescents. The study is based on a social ecological framework, and is designed to implement organizational and structural changes in the physical environment.<br><br>METHODS/DESIGN: The SPACE Study used a cluster randomized controlled study design. Twenty-one eligible schools in the Region of Southern Denmark were matched and randomized in seven pairs according to eight matching variables summarized in an audit tool (crow-fly distance from residence to school for 5-6th graders; area household income; area education level; area ethnicity distribution; school district urbanity; condition and characteristics of school outdoor areas; school health policy; and active transport in the local area). Baseline measurements with accelerometers, questionnaires, diaries, and physical fitness tests were obtained in Spring 2010 in 5-6th grade in 7 intervention and 7 control schools, with follow-up measurements to be taken in Spring 2012 in 7-8th grade. The primary outcome measure is objective average daily physical activity and will be supported by analyses of time spent in moderate to vigorous activity and time spent sedentary. Other secondary outcome measures will be obtained, such as, overweight, physical fitness, active commuting to/from school and physical activity in recess periods.<br><br>DISCUSSION: A total of 1348 adolescents in 5-6th grade in the Region of Southern Denmark participated at baseline (n = 14 schools). The response rate was high in all type of measurements (72.6-97.4%). There were no significant differences between intervention and control groups at baseline according to selected background variables and outcome measures: gender (p = .54), age (p = .17), BMI (p = .59), waist circumference (p = .17), physical fitness (p = .93), and physical activity (accelerometer) (p = .09). The randomization and matched pair design produced equivalent groups according to central outcome measures and background variables. The SPACE for physical activity Study will provide new insights on the effectiveness of multicomponent interventions to improve adolescents' physical activity level.<br><br>TRIAL REGISTRATION: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN79122411.}, }
@article {pmid21984367, year = {2012}, author = {Wang, Z and Lu, X and Liang, Y}, title = {Haplosporidium nelsoni (MSX) in Japanese scallops Patinopecten yessoensis (Jay, 1857) from Dalian along the northern coast of the Yellow Sea, China.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {110}, number = {4}, pages = {1445-1451}, pmid = {21984367}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Animals ; China ; DNA Primers ; DNA, Protozoan/genetics ; Haplosporida/*classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/*physiology ; In Situ Hybridization ; Pectinidae/*parasitology ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Spores, Protozoan ; }, abstract = {The protozoan parasite Haplosporidium nelsoni (MSX) was identified in Japanese scallops Patinopecten yessoensis (Jay, 1857) from Dalian along the northern coast of the Yellow Sea, China by histopathologic examination, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification, and in situ hybridization (ISH) assay. H. nelsoni plasmodia-like structures were identified in the digestive glands of scallops by histologic examination, but no parasite spores were observed. PCR using the Hap-F2, R2 primer pair produced a sequence with 100% homology with the corresponding small subunit rDNA region of H. nelsoni. An ISH assay using the oligonucleotide probe MSX1347 produced a positive reaction with the Japanese scallop parasite. This is the first report of H. nelsoni in P. yessoensis in China.}, }
@article {pmid21980538, year = {2011}, author = {Dong, G and Xu, C and Wang, C and Wu, B and Luo, J and Zhang, H and Nolte, DL and Deliberto, TJ and Duan, M and Ji, G and He, H}, title = {Reassortant H9N2 influenza viruses containing H5N1-like PB1 genes isolated from black-billed magpies in Southern China.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {6}, number = {9}, pages = {e25808}, pmid = {21980538}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Chickens/virology ; China ; Epidemics ; Evolution, Molecular ; Female ; Genotype ; Humans ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity/physiology ; Influenza A Virus, H9N2 Subtype/*genetics/*isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity/physiology ; Mice ; Passeriformes/*virology ; Phylogeny ; Reassortant Viruses/*genetics/*isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity/physiology ; Sequence Analysis ; Viral Proteins/*genetics ; Virus Replication ; }, abstract = {H9N2 influenza A viruses have become endemic in different types of terrestrial poultry and wild birds in Asia, and are occasionally transmitted to humans and pigs. To evaluate the role of black-billed magpies (Pica pica) in the evolution of influenza A virus, we conducted two epidemic surveys on avian influenza viruses in wild black-billed magpies in Guangxi, China in 2005 and characterized three isolated black-billed magpie H9N2 viruses (BbM viruses). Phylogenetic analysis indicated that three BbM viruses were almost identical with 99.7 to 100% nucleotide homology in their whole genomes, and were reassortants containing BJ94-like (Ck/BJ/1/94) HA, NA, M, and NS genes, SH/F/98-like (Ck/SH/F/98) PB2, PA, and NP genes, and H5N1-like (Ck/YN/1252/03, clade 1) PB1 genes. Genetic analysis showed that BbM viruses were most likely the result of multiple reassortments between co-circulating H9N2-like and H5N1-like viruses, and were genetically different from other H9N2 viruses because of the existence of H5N1-like PB1 genes. Genotypical analysis revealed that BbM viruses evolved from diverse sources and belonged to a novel genotype (B46) discovered in our recent study. Molecular analysis suggested that BbM viruses were likely low pathogenic reassortants. However, results of our pathogenicity study demonstrated that BbM viruses replicated efficiently in chickens and a mammalian mouse model but were not lethal for infected chickens and mice. Antigenic analysis showed that BbM viruses were antigenic heterologous with the H9N2 vaccine strain. Our study is probably the first report to document and characterize H9N2 influenza viruses isolated from black-billed magpies in southern China. Our results suggest that black-billed magpies were susceptible to H9N2 influenza viruses, which raise concerns over possible transmissions of reassortant H9N2 viruses among poultry and wild birds.}, }
@article {pmid21976584, year = {2011}, author = {Brault, AC and Langevin, SA and Ramey, WN and Fang, Y and Beasley, DW and Barker, CM and Sanders, TA and Reisen, WK and Barrett, AD and Bowen, RA}, title = {Reduced avian virulence and viremia of West Nile virus isolates from Mexico and Texas.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {85}, number = {4}, pages = {758-767}, pmid = {21976584}, issn = {1476-1645}, support = {R01 CI000235/CI/NCPDCID CDC HHS/United States ; AI055607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; CI000235/CI/NCPDCID CDC HHS/United States ; R01 AI061822/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI055607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; AI061822/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; AI67847/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; U54 AI065359/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI067847/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Base Sequence ; Birds/*virology ; DNA Primers ; Glycosylation ; Mexico ; Texas ; Virulence ; West Nile virus/immunology/isolation &amp; purification/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {A West Nile virus (WNV) isolate from Mexico (TM171-03) and BIRD1153, a unique genotype from Texas, have exhibited reduced murine neuroinvasive phenotypes. To determine if murine neuroinvasive capacity equates to avian virulence potential, American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and house sparrows (Passer domesticus) were experimentally inoculated with representative murine neuroinvasive/non-neuroinvasive strains. In both avian species, a plaque variant from Mexico that was E-glycosylation competent produced higher viremias than an E-glycosylation-incompetent variant, indicating the potential importance of E-glycosylation for avian replication. The murine non-neuroinvasive BIRD1153 strain was significantly attenuated in American crows but not house sparrows when compared with the murine neuroinvasive Texas strain. Despite the loss of murine neuroinvasive properties of nonglycosylated variants from Mexico, our data indicate avian replication potential of these strains and that unique WNV virulence characteristics exist between murine and avian models. The implications of reduced avian replication of variants from Mexico for restricted WNV transmission in Latin America is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid21969707, year = {2011}, author = {Zhang, B and Zhang, JG and Zhao, H and Zhang, X and Li, M and Qian, L and Wang, K and Tian, CS and Guo, WH and Cao, QY and Zhou, ZY and Yu, H and Li, C and Xu, J and Cao, W and Zhu, B and Xu, Y}, title = {Evaluation of apparent diffusion coefficient mappings in amnestic mild cognitive impairment using an image analysis software brain search.}, journal = {Acta radiologica (Stockholm, Sweden : 1987)}, volume = {52}, number = {10}, pages = {1147-1154}, doi = {10.1258/ar.2011.100430}, pmid = {21969707}, issn = {1600-0455}, mesh = {Aged ; Aging/pathology ; Alzheimer Disease/pathology ; Amnesia ; Analysis of Variance ; Brain/*pathology ; Brain Mapping/*methods ; Cognitive Dysfunction/*pathology ; Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging/*methods ; Female ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Reproducibility of Results ; Software ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) from diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) can quantify alterations in water diffusivity resulting from microscopic structural changes from amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD).<br><br>PURPOSE: To investigate the ADC value for aMCI and AD using Brain Search (BS) software based on anatomical volumes of interest (AVOI).<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: In total, 174 aged people were screened, and 25 patients with AD, 26 patients with aMCI, and 18 normal controls (NCs) were recruited. DWI was performed at 1.5 T with a fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), and the independent ADC mapping was generated after imaging acquisition. Ninety regional parcellations were adopted in a Brain Search (BS) based on the automated anatomic labeling atlas. The gray scale intensities (water diffusivity) from the collected ADC mappings were analyzed with BS. The mean value of each anatomical brain region was compared among aMCI, AD, and NC. The statistically significant (P < 0.05) group differences are displayed in color.<br><br>RESULTS: During the pathological process of AD, the changes of water diffusivity appeared first in the left hippocampus, then gradually progressed to the bilateral sides and eventually displayed right lateralization. The ADC values from aMCI were obviously elevated compared to the values from the NC group in the left limbic cortex. Between the AD and NC groups, the significantly different brain areas included the bilateral hippocampus, the Cingulum_Mid, the ParaHippocampal_R, and the Temporal and Frontal lobes. There was a negative correlation between the ADC values and the scores from MMSE, MoCA, the Digit test, Raven's IQ, and WAIS IQ. Additionally, the ADC values were positively correlated with the scores from CDR, ADL, and ADAS-Cog.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The water diffusivity for aMCI and AD displays asymmetric anatomical lateralization. The water diffusivity alterations can be analyzed and visualized with our newly designed analytic imaging software, BS, which can be used as a good reference for examining and diagnosing aMCI and AD patients.}, }
@article {pmid21964151, year = {2011}, author = {Ferrari, C and Canciamilla, A and Morichetti, F and Sorel, M and Melloni, A}, title = {Penalty-free transmission in a silicon coupled resonator optical waveguide over the full C-band.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {36}, number = {19}, pages = {3948-3950}, doi = {10.1364/OL.36.003948}, pmid = {21964151}, issn = {1539-4794}, abstract = {We show that optical signal propagation in a coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW) does not introduce additional performance penalties with respect to propagation in a conventional optical waveguide. The result is demonstrated in a low-loss (1 dB) eight-ring silicon CROW by means of bit error rate measurements performed over the whole telecommunication C-band. An extensive characterization of the CROW parameters in terms of insertion loss, bandwidth, in-band intensity ripple, crosstalk, and sensitivity to thermal drifts is presented.}, }
@article {pmid24644455, year = {2011}, author = {Alipour, A and Arefnasab, Z and Babamahmoodi, A}, title = {Emotional Intelligence and Prefrontal Cortex: a Comparative Study Based on Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST).}, journal = {Iranian journal of psychiatry and behavioral sciences}, volume = {5}, number = {2}, pages = {114-119}, pmid = {24644455}, issn = {1735-8639}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Emotional intelligence (EI) is a set of competencies that enable us to engage in sophisticated information processing of emotions and emotion-relevant stimuli and to use this information as a guide for thinking and behavior. Prefrontal cortexes (PFC) of brain and related regions have an important role in emotion and emotional regulation. Accordingly, we conducted a study to investigate the relation between EI and performance in Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) (a neuropsychological test, used to evaluate some of the frontal lobe functions).<br><br>METHODS: In this quasi-experimental study, 250 volunteers from BS and BA students of universities of Tehran were recruited using available sampling method. Bar-on EI, general health questionnaire (GHQ-28) and Raven's Progressive Matrices were completed by the participants. They were categorized into two groups; each group contained 40 students with high and low EI, whose performance in WCST were evaluated thereafter individually. Data was analyzed by MANOVA.<br><br>RESULTS: Our results showed that the high EI group had a better performance in WCST than the low EI group.<br><br>CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that people with better EI may have better PFC functions.}, }
@article {pmid21957464, year = {2011}, author = {Huepe, D and Roca, M and Salas, N and Canales-Johnson, A and Rivera-Rei, &#xc1;A and Zamorano, L and Concepción, A and Manes, F and Ibañez, A}, title = {Fluid intelligence and psychosocial outcome: from logical problem solving to social adaptation.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {6}, number = {9}, pages = {e24858}, pmid = {21957464}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Bullying/psychology ; Child ; Child Abuse/psychology ; Data Collection ; Educational Status ; Executive Function ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence/physiology ; *Logic ; Male ; Mental Health/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Parents ; Perception ; *Problem Solving/physiology ; Psychology ; Self Concept ; *Social Adjustment ; Substance-Related Disorders/psychology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: While fluid intelligence has proved to be central to executive functioning, logical reasoning and other frontal functions, the role of this ability in psychosocial adaptation has not been well characterized.<br><br>A random-probabilistic sample of 2370 secondary school students completed measures of fluid intelligence (Raven's Progressive Matrices, RPM) and several measures of psychological adaptation: bullying (Delaware Bullying Questionnaire), domestic abuse of adolescents (Conflict Tactic Scale), drug intake (ONUDD), self-esteem (Rosenberg's Self Esteem Scale) and the Perceived Mental Health Scale (Spanish adaptation). Lower fluid intelligence scores were associated with physical violence, both in the role of victim and victimizer. Drug intake, especially cannabis, cocaine and inhalants and lower self-esteem were also associated with lower fluid intelligence. Finally, scores on the perceived mental health assessment were better when fluid intelligence scores were higher.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: Our results show evidence of a strong association between psychosocial adaptation and fluid intelligence, suggesting that the latter is not only central to executive functioning but also forms part of a more general capacity for adaptation to social contexts.}, }
@article {pmid21944570, year = {2012}, author = {Smyth, RM and Jacoby, A and Elbourne, D}, title = {Deciding to join a perinatal randomised controlled trial: experiences and views of pregnant women enroled in the Magpie Trial.}, journal = {Midwifery}, volume = {28}, number = {4}, pages = {E478-85}, doi = {10.1016/j.midw.2011.08.006}, pmid = {21944570}, issn = {1532-3099}, mesh = {Adult ; Altruism ; Anticonvulsants/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Chi-Square Distribution ; Choice Behavior ; Female ; Humans ; Multicenter Studies as Topic/psychology ; Nursing Methodology Research ; Patient Acceptance of Health Care/*psychology ; Patient Selection ; Pre-Eclampsia/drug therapy/prevention &amp; control/*psychology ; Pregnancy ; Pregnant People/*psychology ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic/*psychology ; Research Subjects/*psychology ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: to provide insight into pregnant women's experiences of participating in a large multi-centre randomised trial.<br><br>DESIGN: qualitative semi-structured interviews.<br><br>SETTING: six UK maternity units.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: women recruited to the Magpie Trial. The Magpie Trial was a trial of prophylactic anticonvulsants for women with severe pre-eclampsia. MEASUREMENTS FINDINGS: a number of major but related themes emerged regarding influences on the women's decision-making: unpredictability of pre-eclampsia; quality of information received; role of others in the decision-making process; perceived personal benefit from trial participation; and perception of voluntariness of joining.<br><br>KEY CONCLUSIONS: the data presented give valuable insights into the women's views and experiences of decision-making. Research into many of the other elements of care given during pregnancy and childbirth is still needed, and with this need comes the ethical responsibility of researchers to ensure trials are performed in the most scientifically robust ways, which are also acceptable to women. To examine the experiences of those involved in trial participation and their views about doing so is a crucial way of advancing this. The QUOTE Study increases understanding of the experiences of women participating in a randomised controlled trial.<br><br>IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: the general implication for practice is that procedures are needed that can improve the design and conduct of randomised trials and therefore ultimately enhance the experience for future women. Recommendations include informed consent should be tailored, recognising individual differences in the desire for information. For instance the time individuals need to make consent decisions varies, as do their desires to consult with family before agreeing.}, }
@article {pmid21939742, year = {2011}, author = {Nishizawa, K and Izawa, EI and Watanabe, S}, title = {Neural-activity mapping of memory-based dominance in the crow: neural networks integrating individual discrimination and social behaviour control.}, journal = {Neuroscience}, volume = {197}, number = {}, pages = {307-319}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroscience.2011.09.001}, pmid = {21939742}, issn = {1873-7544}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Brain/*physiology ; *Brain Mapping ; Crows ; Discrimination, Psychological/*physiology ; Immunohistochemistry ; Male ; Memory/*physiology ; Nerve Net/*physiology ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Large-billed crows (Corvus macrorhynchos), highly social birds, form stable dominance relationships based on the memory of win/loss outcomes of first encounters and on individual discrimination. This socio-cognitive behaviour predicts the existence of neural mechanisms for integration of social behaviour control and individual discrimination. This study aimed to elucidate the neural substrates of memory-based dominance in crows. First, the formation of dominance relationships was confirmed between males in a dyadic encounter paradigm. Next, we examined whether neural activities in 22 focal nuclei of pallium and subpallium were correlated with social behaviour and stimulus familiarity after exposure to dominant/subordinate familiar individuals and unfamiliar conspecifics. Neural activity was determined by measuring expression level of the immediate-early-gene (IEG) protein Zenk. Crows displayed aggressive and/or submissive behaviour to opponents less frequently but more discriminatively in subsequent encounters, suggesting stable dominance based on memory, including win/loss outcomes of the first encounters and individual discrimination. Neural correlates of aggressive and submissive behaviour were found in limbic subpallium including septum, bed nucleus of the striae terminalis (BST), and nucleus taeniae of amygdala (TnA), but also those to familiarity factor in BST and TnA. Contrastingly, correlates of social behaviour were little in pallium and those of familiarity with exposed individuals were identified in hippocampus, medial meso-/nidopallium, and ventro-caudal nidopallium. Given the anatomical connection and neural response patterns of the focal nuclei, neural networks connecting pallium and limbic subpallium via hippocampus could be involved in the integration of individual discrimination and social behaviour control in memory-based dominance in the crow.}, }
@article {pmid21936324, year = {2011}, author = {Chuang, TW and Knepper, RG and Stanuszek, WW and Walker, ED and Wilson, ML}, title = {Temporal and spatial patterns of West Nile virus transmission in Saginaw County, Michigan, 2003-2006.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {48}, number = {5}, pages = {1047-1056}, doi = {10.1603/me10138}, pmid = {21936324}, issn = {0022-2585}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/isolation &amp; purification ; Bird Diseases/blood/epidemiology/transmission ; Birds/blood/*virology ; Culicidae/classification/physiology/*virology ; Female ; Galliformes/blood/*virology ; Michigan/epidemiology ; Population Dynamics ; Prevalence ; Seasons ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; Species Specificity ; West Nile Fever/blood/epidemiology/*transmission/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/physiology ; }, abstract = {The dynamics of West Nile virus (family Flaviviridae, genus Flavivirus, WNV) infection in mosquitoes, sentinel pheasants, and wild dead birds were evaluated during 2003-2006 in Saginaw Co., MI. Mosquitoes were collected by New Jersey Light Traps at 22 sites during May-September, pooled by species and sample location, and tested for presence of WNV RNA by using a real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction assay. Oral swabs from wild dead birds submitted by the public were tested by Vec-Test assay. Sentinel pheasants were bled weekly, and serum was tested for antibodies with an inhibition enzyme immunoassay. In total, 37,225 mosquitoes [Aedes vexans (Meigen), Culex pipiens L., and Culex restuans Theobald] were tested in 5,429 pools, of which 59 (1.1%) were positive. Ae. vexans was most abundant but had a comparatively low infection rate (0.06-2.11) compared with Cx. pipiens (1.75-4.59) and Cx. restuans (1.22-15.67). Mosquito abundances were temporally related to variations in 2-wk average weather variables. Infected dead crows appeared earlier each transmission season than blue jays, but infection prevalence for both peaked approximately mid-August. Space-time clusters were found in different locations each year. Sentinel pheasant seroprevalence was 19.3% (16/83), 12.7% (10/79), and 7.7% (5/65) during 2003-2005, respectively. We demonstrated temporal patterns of WNV activity in corvid birds and Culex spp. mosquitoes during the study period, suggesting virus transmission within an enzootic cycle. Despite the absence of human case reports nearby, this surveillance system demonstrated WNV transmission and possible human risk. Maintained surveillance using more appropriate gravid traps and CDC CO2 light traps could improve sensitivity of vector collection and virus detection.}, }
@article {pmid21935722, year = {2011}, author = {Ogasawara, H and Kaimi, R and Colasanti, J and Kozaki, A}, title = {Activity of transcription factor JACKDAW is essential for SHR/SCR-dependent activation of SCARECROW and MAGPIE and is modulated by reciprocal interactions with MAGPIE, SCARECROW and SHORT ROOT.}, journal = {Plant molecular biology}, volume = {77}, number = {4-5}, pages = {489-499}, pmid = {21935722}, issn = {1573-5028}, mesh = {Arabidopsis/genetics/*metabolism ; Arabidopsis Proteins/genetics/metabolism/*physiology ; Carrier Proteins/genetics/metabolism/*physiology ; Cells, Cultured ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Genetic Vectors ; Plant Roots/genetics/metabolism ; Promoter Regions, Genetic ; RNA, Messenger/metabolism ; Transcription Factors/genetics/metabolism/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Two GRAS family transcription factors, SHORT-ROOT (SHR) and SCARECROW (SCR), are required for ground tissue and quiescent center formation in Arabidopsis roots. The action of SHR and SCR is regulated by two INDETERMINATE DOMAIN (IDD) family proteins, JACKDAW (JKD) and MAGPIE (MGP). Although the reciprocal interaction of these transcription factors is considered to be involved in the modulation of SHR and SCR action by JKD and MGP, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we use a transient assay with Arabidopsis culture cells to show that the physical interaction of these transcription factors modulate their transcriptional activity. Transient expression of LUC reporter genes with the proximal sequences upstream from the ATG codon of SCR and MGP in protoplasts were activated by JKD. Moreover, promoter activities were enhanced further by the addition of SHR and SCR to JKD, but not by the combination of SHR and SCR in the absence of JKD. Yeast one-hybrid analysis showed that JKD binds to the SCR and MGP promoter sequences, indicating the existence of another binding sequences of JKD different from the previously determined IDD binding sequence. Our findings suggest that JKD directly regulates SCR and MGP expression in cooperation with SHR, SCR and MGP.}, }
@article {pmid21935133, year = {2011}, author = {Liu, HC and Yariv, A}, title = {Synthesis of high-order bandpass filters based on coupled-resonator optical waveguides (CROWs).}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {19}, number = {18}, pages = {17653-17668}, doi = {10.1364/OE.19.017653}, pmid = {21935133}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {We present a filter design formalism for the synthesis of coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) filters. This formalism leads to expressions and a methodology for deriving the coupling coefficients of CROWs for the desired filter responses and is based on coupled-mode theory as well as the recursive properties of the coupling matrix. The coupling coefficients are universal and can be applied to various types of resonators. We describe a method for the conversion of the coupling coefficients to the parameters based on ring resonators and grating defect resonators. The designs of Butterworth and Bessel CROW filters are demonstrated as examples.}, }
@article {pmid21934634, year = {2012}, author = {Oyama, A and Ueno, T and Uchiyama, S and Aihara, T and Miyake, A and Kondo, S and Matsunaga, K}, title = {The effects of natural S-equol supplementation on skin aging in postmenopausal women: a pilot randomized placebo-controlled trial.}, journal = {Menopause (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {19}, number = {2}, pages = {202-210}, doi = {10.1097/gme.0b013e318227427b}, pmid = {21934634}, issn = {1530-0374}, mesh = {Dietary Supplements ; Double-Blind Method ; Equol/*administration &amp; dosage/urine ; Humans ; Isoflavones/urine ; Japan ; Middle Aged ; Phytoestrogens/*administration &amp; dosage ; Pilot Projects ; Placebos ; Postmenopause/*physiology ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the natural S-equol supplement on skin aging in equol-nonproducing Japanese postmenopausal women.<br><br>METHODS: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial examined the use of the natural S-equol supplement for 12 weeks in 101 postmenopausal Japanese women who were equol nonproducers. They were randomly assigned to one of three groups: placebo (n = 34), 10 mg S-equol/day (EQL10; n = 34), or 30 mg S-equol/day (EQL30; n = 33). Skin parameters of crow's-feet wrinkles (area and depth), hydration, transepidermal water loss, and elasticity were measured at baseline and at monthly intervals during treatment. Vaginal cytology, endometrial thickness, and mammography were performed before and after treatment. Serum hormone concentrations were measured at the same time as skin parameters.<br><br>RESULTS: The EQL10 and EQL30 groups showed significant reductions in wrinkle area compared with the placebo group (P < 0.05). There was a significant difference in wrinkle depth between the placebo group and the EQL30 group (P < 0.05). Other skin parameters did not show significant differences after the treatment in any group. There were no abnormal results in hormone status or gynecological examinations.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest that natural S-equol supplementation (EQL10 and EQL30) may have a beneficial effect on crow's-feet wrinkles in postmenopausal women without serious adverse events.}, }
@article {pmid21934148, year = {2011}, author = {Harris, AE}, title = {The relational tradition: landscape and canon.}, journal = {Journal of the American Psychoanalytic Association}, volume = {59}, number = {4}, pages = {701-736}, doi = {10.1177/0003065111416655}, pmid = {21934148}, issn = {1941-2460}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Object Attachment ; *Professional-Patient Relations ; Psychoanalysis/*history ; *Psychoanalytic Therapy ; }, abstract = {This essay charts the origins, influences, and evolution of the relational tradition in contemporary psychoanalysis. Considering the theoretical and philosophical influences from nineteenth-century Americans like William James and C. S Pierce, and noting the seminal modern work of Steven Mitchell and Jay Greenberg in opening a critique of one-person focused drive theory, the essay follows developments over a quarter century. Hallmarks of the relational approach-social construction, two-person psychologies, multiple self-states, social regulation and construction of identities like gender and sexual orientation, and an evolving theory of clinical practice-are reviewed. New developments in clinical theory, in the study of identity categories, in the work on embodiment and enactment, and in developmental models are also reviewed.}, }
@article {pmid21931679, year = {2011}, author = {Johansson, US and Pasquet, E and Irestedt, M}, title = {The New Zealand Thrush: an extinct oriole.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {6}, number = {9}, pages = {e24317}, pmid = {21931679}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Bayes Theorem ; Cell Nucleus/genetics ; *Extinction, Biological ; Introns/genetics ; Models, Genetic ; New Zealand ; Phylogeny ; Songbirds/genetics/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The New Zealand Thrush, or Piopio, is an extinct passerine that was endemic to New Zealand. It has often been placed in its own family (Turnagridae), unresolved relative to other passerines, but affinities with thrushes, Australaian magpies, manucodes, whistlers, birds-of-paradise and bowerbirds has been suggested based on morphological data. An affinity with the bowerbirds was also indicated in an early molecular study, but low statistical support make this association uncertain. In this study we use sequence data from three nuclear introns to examine the phylogenetic relationships of the piopios. All three genes independently indicate an oriole (Oriolidae) affinity of the piopios, and the monophyly of the typical orioles (Oriolus), figbirds (Sphecotheres), and the piopios is strongly supported in the Bayesian analysis of the concatenated data set (posterior probability = 1.0). The exact placement of the piopios within Oriolidae is, however, more uncertain but in the combined analysis and in two of the gene trees the piopios are placed basal to the typical orioles while the third gene suggest a sister relationship with the figbirds. This is the first time an oriole affinity has been proposed for the piopios. Divergence time estimates for the orioles suggest that the clade originated ca 20 million years ago, and based on these estimates it is evident that the piopios must have arrived on New Zealand by dispersal across the Tasman Sea and not as a result of vicariance when New Zealand separated from Gondwana in the late Cretaceous.}, }
@article {pmid21927968, year = {2011}, author = {Brand, RA}, title = {50 Years ago in CORR: Osteomyelitis since the advent of antibiotics; a study of infants and children Gordon M. Cottington, MD, Jay M. Riden, MD, and Albert B. Ferguson, Jr, MD CORR 1959;14:97-101.}, journal = {Clinical orthopaedics and related research}, volume = {469}, number = {11}, pages = {3257-3258}, pmid = {21927968}, issn = {1528-1132}, mesh = {Anti-Bacterial Agents/*history/therapeutic use ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Infant ; Osteomyelitis/drug therapy/*history/mortality ; Survival Rate ; }, }
@article {pmid21926182, year = {2011}, author = {Hayes, TR and Petrov, AA and Sederberg, PB}, title = {A novel method for analyzing sequential eye movements reveals strategic influence on Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Journal of vision}, volume = {11}, number = {10}, pages = {10}, doi = {10.1167/11.10.10}, pmid = {21926182}, issn = {1534-7362}, mesh = {*Computer Simulation ; Eye Movements/*physiology ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Pattern Recognition, Visual/*physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Eye movements are an important data source in vision science. However, the vast majority of eye movement studies ignore sequential information in the data and utilize only first-order statistics. Here, we present a novel application of a temporal-difference learning algorithm to construct a scanpath successor representation (SR; P. Dayan, 1993) that captures statistical regularities in temporally extended eye movement sequences. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the scanpath SR on eye movement data from participants solving items from Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices Test. Analysis of the SRs revealed individual differences in scanning patterns captured by two principal components that predicted individual Raven scores much better than existing methods. These scanpath SR components were highly interpretable and provided new insight into the role of strategic processing on the Raven test. The success of the scanpath SR in terms of prediction and interpretability suggests that this method could prove useful in a much broader context.}, }
@article {pmid21924907, year = {2011}, author = {Koizumi, K and Wu, S and MacRae-Crerar, A and Gallagher, KL}, title = {An essential protein that interacts with endosomes and promotes movement of the SHORT-ROOT transcription factor.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {21}, number = {18}, pages = {1559-1564}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2011.08.013}, pmid = {21924907}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Arabidopsis/genetics/growth &amp; development/*metabolism ; Arabidopsis Proteins/analysis/genetics/metabolism/*physiology ; Carrier Proteins/genetics/metabolism/*physiology ; Cell Nucleus/metabolism ; Endosomes/*metabolism ; Green Fluorescent Proteins/analysis ; Mutagenesis, Site-Directed ; Plant Roots/growth &amp; development/metabolism/physiology ; Protein Transport/physiology ; Transcription Factors/analysis/metabolism/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Plant cells can communicate through the direct transport of transcription factors [1-7]. One of the best-studied examples of this phenomenon is SHORT-ROOT (SHR), which moves from the stele cells into the endodermis and root tip of Arabidopsis, where it specifies endodermal cell identity and stem cell function, respectively [8-10]. In the endodermis, SHR upregulates the transcription factors SCARECROW (SCR) [2] and JACKDAW (JKD), which in turn inhibit movement of SHR from the endodermis [11]. Although much is known about the regulatory pathways that mediate expression and activity of SHR [1, 8-14], little is known about the factors that promote its movement or the movement of other transcription factors. We have identified a novel protein, SHORT-ROOT INTERACTING EMBRYONIC LETHAL (SIEL), that interacts with SHR, CAPRICE (CPC), TARGET OF MONOPTEROUS 7 (TMO7), and AGAMOUS-LIKE 21 (AGL21). Null alleles of SIEL are embryonic lethal. Hypomorphic alleles produce defects in root patterning and reduce SHR movement. Surprisingly, both SHR and SCR regulate expression of SIEL, so that siel/scr and siel/shr double mutants have extremely disorganized roots. SIEL localizes to the nucleus and cytoplasm of root cells where it is associated with endosomes. We propose that SIEL is an endosome-associated protein that promotes intercellular movement.}, }
@article {pmid21923798, year = {2012}, author = {Gruenthal, A and Moffatt, C and Simmons, T}, title = {Differential decomposition patterns in charred versus un-charred remains.}, journal = {Journal of forensic sciences}, volume = {57}, number = {1}, pages = {12-18}, doi = {10.1111/j.1556-4029.2011.01909.x}, pmid = {21923798}, issn = {1556-4029}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Burns/*pathology ; Diptera ; Feeding Behavior ; Forensic Anthropology ; Forensic Pathology ; Models, Animal ; *Postmortem Changes ; Rodentia ; Swine ; }, abstract = {Although researchers have examined many aspects of fire modification, the rate and pattern of decomposition in charred remains have not been studied previously. This study utilized 48 domestic pigs, divided into 24 charred (head, neck, and limbs burned to Crow-Glassman level 1 and torso to level 2) and 24 un-charred pig carcasses. Decomposition of control carcasses was scored at 50 accumulated degree days (ADD) intervals, and charred carcasses were also observed and photographed at this time. A Charred Body Scale was subsequently created, and charred carcasses were scored retrospectively for the same ADD intervals. Analysis using a mixed-effect repeated measures model indicated that, while decomposition rate was not statistically different between the two groups (p = 0.2692), the charred remains initially displayed an ostensibly more advanced pattern. Body regions displaying significant charring decomposed at a faster rate (p < 0.001), while areas with very light levels of charring decomposed at a significantly slower rate (p < 0.001).}, }
@article {pmid21922257, year = {2012}, author = {Wilson, AG and Crystal, JD}, title = {Prospective memory in the rat.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {349-358}, pmid = {21922257}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {R01 MH080052/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH080052-04/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01MH080052/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Anticipation, Psychological ; Feeding Behavior/psychology ; Male ; *Memory, Episodic ; Rats/*psychology ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley/psychology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {The content of prospective memory is comprised of representations of an action to perform in the future. When people form prospective memories, they temporarily put the memory representation in an inactive state while engaging in other activities, and then activate the representation in the future. Ultimately, successful activation of the memory representation yields an action at an appropriate, but temporally distant, time. A hallmark of prospective memory is that activation of the memory representation has a deleterious effect on current ongoing activity. Recent evidence suggests that scrub jays and non-human primates, but not other species, are capable of future planning. We hypothesized that prospective memory produces a selective deficit in performance at the time when rats access a memory representation but not when the memory representation is inactive. Rats were trained in a temporal bisection task (90 min/day). Immediately after the bisection task, half of the rats received an 8-g meal (meal group) and the other rats received no additional food (no-meal group). Sensitivity to time in the bisection task was reduced as the 90-min interval elapsed for the meal group but not for the no-meal group. This time-based prospective-memory effect was not based on response competition, an attentional limit, anticipatory contrast, or fatigue. Our results suggest that rats form prospective memories, which produces a negative side effect on ongoing activity.}, }
@article {pmid21921444, year = {2010}, author = {Kuwabara, S}, title = {[New treatment strategy for Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {50}, number = {11}, pages = {794-796}, doi = {10.5692/clinicalneurol.50.794}, pmid = {21921444}, issn = {1882-0654}, mesh = {Angiogenesis Inhibitors/therapeutic use ; Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/therapeutic use ; Bevacizumab ; Boronic Acids/therapeutic use ; Bortezomib ; Combined Modality Therapy ; Demyelinating Diseases/etiology ; Humans ; Lenalidomide ; Melphalan/*administration &amp; dosage ; POEMS Syndrome/etiology/metabolism/*therapy ; *Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation ; Pyrazines/therapeutic use ; Thalidomide/analogs &amp; derivatives/therapeutic use ; Transplantation, Autologous ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/immunology/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Crow-Fukase syndrome, also called POEMS (polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M-protein, and skin changes) syndrome, is a rare cause of demyelinating and axonal mixed neuropathy with multiorgan involvement. The pathogenesis of Crow-Fukase syndrome is not well understood, but overproduction of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), probably mediated by monoclonal proliferation of plasma cells, is likely to be responsible for most of the characteristic symptoms. There is no established treatment regimen. In appropriate candidates, high-dose chemotherapies with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation is highly recommended, because this treatment could result in obvious improvement in neuropathy as well as other symptoms, with a significant decrease in serum VEGF levels. Indication of this treatment has not yet been established, and long-term prognosis is unclear at present. Thalidomide should be considered for patients who are not indicated for transplantation therapy. Treatments that should be considered as future therapy include lenalidomide, bortezomib, and anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody (bevacizumab).}, }
@article {pmid21920957, year = {2012}, author = {Dufour, V and Wascher, CA and Braun, A and Miller, R and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Corvids can decide if a future exchange is worth waiting for.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {8}, number = {2}, pages = {201-204}, pmid = {21920957}, issn = {1744-957X}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Choice Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Motivation ; *Reward ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Evidence for time-dependent calculations about future rewards is scarce in non-human animals. In non-human primates, only great apes are comparable with humans. Still, some species wait for several minutes to obtain a better reward in delayed exchange tasks. Corvids have been shown to match with non-human primates in some time-related tasks. Here, we investigate a delay of gratification in two corvid species, the carrion crow (Corvus corone) and the common raven (Corvus corax), in an exchange task. Results show that corvids success decreases quickly as delay increases, with a maximal delay of up to 320 s (more than 5 min). The decision to wait rests both on the quality of the prospective reward and the time required to obtain it. Corvids also apply tactics (placing the reward on the ground or caching it) that probably alleviate costs of waiting and distract their attention during waiting. These findings contrast previous results on delayed gratification in birds and indicate that some species may perform comparably to primates.}, }
@article {pmid21915741, year = {2012}, author = {Mandarelli, G and Zangaro, S and Raja, M and Azzoni, A and Tatarelli, R and Ferracuti, S}, title = {Competence to consent to sexual activity in bipolar disorder and schizophrenic spectrum disorders.}, journal = {Archives of sexual behavior}, volume = {41}, number = {2}, pages = {507-515}, doi = {10.1007/s10508-011-9840-3}, pmid = {21915741}, issn = {1573-2800}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Bipolar Disorder/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Informed Consent/*psychology ; Male ; Mental Competency/*psychology ; Middle Aged ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Psychotic Disorders/*psychology ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Sexual Behavior/*psychology ; }, abstract = {Little is known about the ability of persons with severe mental disorders to give consent to sexual activity. A possible reason for this shortcoming is the absence of specific criteria and tools to measure sexual consent in psychiatric clinical settings. We developed a clinician oriented semi-structured interview, the Sexual Consent Assessment Scale (SCAS), and investigated sexual consent capacity in a sample of hospitalized patients with bipolar disorder (n = 54, M (age) = 38.1 years, 48% males) and schizophrenic spectrum disorders (n = 31, M (age) = 38.4 years, 29% males). The SCAS items were derived from the criteria proposed by Kennedy and Niederbuhl (Am J Ment Retard, 106:503-510, 2001). The full scale and a shorter scale comprising 10 items (SCAS-10) achieved good initial validity. Patients with schizophrenic spectrum disorders had worse sexual consent capacity than patients with bipolar disorder. This difference was unexpectedly independent from patients' symptomatology, as measured by the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale. Conversely, poor cognitive functioning measured by the Raven's Standard Progressive matrices was associated with reduced capacity to give sexual consent in both groups. Subjects in the schizophrenic spectrum disorders group were more frequently judged incapable in basic knowledge of birth control methods and in domains underlying metacognitive abilities. Principal component analysis revealed two SCAS-10 interpretable factors: "appropriateness-recognition" and "consequences-metacognition." Our study suggests that patients with severe psychiatric disorders, especially those with cognitive dysfunction, might be at risk of incapacity to give valid sexual consent.}, }
@article {pmid21911949, year = {2011}, author = {Shivaprakash, PK and Ohri, K and Noorani, H}, title = {Relation between dental fluorosis and intelligence quotient in school children of Bagalkot district.}, journal = {Journal of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {117-120}, doi = {10.4103/0970-4388.84683}, pmid = {21911949}, issn = {1998-3905}, mesh = {Child ; Environmental Exposure ; Female ; Fluorides/analysis ; Fluorosis, Dental/*classification ; Humans ; India ; Intelligence/*classification ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Water Supply/analysis ; }, abstract = {This study was conducted on 160 children, in the Bagalkot district of Karnataka state between August and October 2010, with the aim of finding out if there is a relation between dental fluorosis status and Intelligence Quotient (IQ). Children were categorized as, those suffering from dental fluorosis and those not suffering from dental fluorosis and for all children in both categories, Intelligence testing was done using the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices. The following observations were made from the data gathered: The mean IQ score of children without dental fluorosis was significantly higher than those children who had dental fluorosis. The mean IQ scores did not vary with the severity of dental fluorosis as classified by Dean's fluorosis index. Also it was noticed that the percentage of children with dental fluorosis was more in Extremely Low and Low IQ categories whereas the percentage of children without dental fluorosis was more in Average and High Average IQ categories. Previous studies had indicated toward decreased Intelligence in children exposed to high levels of fluoride and our study also confirmed such an effect.}, }
@article {pmid21910843, year = {2011}, author = {Bartlow, AW and Kachmar, M and Lichti, N and Swihart, RK and Stratford, JA and Steele, MA}, title = {Does multiple seed loading in Blue Jays result in selective dispersal of smaller acorns?.}, journal = {Integrative zoology}, volume = {6}, number = {3}, pages = {235-243}, doi = {10.1111/j.1749-4877.2011.00254.x}, pmid = {21910843}, issn = {1749-4877}, support = {//Howard Hughes Medical Institute/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Feeding Behavior ; Food Chain ; Pennsylvania ; Quercus/*physiology ; *Seed Dispersal ; Seeds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Studies from both tropical and temperate systems show that scatter-hoarding rodents selectively disperse larger seeds farther from their source than smaller seeds, potentially increasing seedling establishment in larger-seeded plants. Size-biased dispersal is evident in many oaks (Quercus) and is true both across and within species. Here, we predict that intraspecifc variation in seed size also influences acorn dispersal by the Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata Linnaeus), but in an opposite manner. Blue Jays are gape-limited and selectively disperse smaller acorn species (e.g. pin oaks [Quercus palustris Münchh]), but often carry several acorns in their crop during a single dispersal event. We predict that jays foraging on smaller acorns will load more seeds per trip and disperse seeds to greater distances than when single acorns are carried in the bill. To test this, we presented free-ranging Blue Jays with pin oak acorns of different sizes over a 2-year period. In each of 16 experimental trials, we monitored the birds at a feeding station with remote cameras and determined the number of acorns removed and the distance acorns were dispersed when cached. Jays were significantly more likely to engage in multiple seed loading with smaller seeds in both years of the study. During the second year, these smaller acorns were dispersed farther than larger acorns, and during the first year, larger acorns were dispersed farther, revealing an inconsistent response to seed size during our study. We suggest that in some circumstances, multiple seed loading by Blue Jays may favor dispersal in some plant species.}, }
@article {pmid21900316, year = {2012}, author = {Taylor, AH and Hunt, GR and Gray, RD}, title = {Context-dependent tool use in New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {8}, number = {2}, pages = {205-207}, pmid = {21900316}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Fear ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Humans and chimpanzees both exhibit context-dependent tool use. That is, both species choose to use tools when food is within reach, but the context is potentially hazardous. Here, we show that New Caledonian crows used tools more frequently when food was positioned next to a novel model snake than when food was positioned next to a novel teddy bear or a familiar food bowl. However, the crows showed no significant difference in their neophobic reactions towards the teddy bear and the model snake. Therefore, the crows used tools more in response to a risky object resembling a natural predator than to a less-threatening object that provoked a comparable level of neophobia. These results show that New Caledonian crows, like humans and chimpanzees, are capable of context-dependent tool use.}, }
@article {pmid21899163, year = {2011}, author = {Kuwabara, S}, title = {[The cutting-edge of medicine; Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome: diagnosis, pathophysiology, and treatments].}, journal = {Nihon Naika Gakkai zasshi. The Journal of the Japanese Society of Internal Medicine}, volume = {100}, number = {8}, pages = {2275-2281}, doi = {10.2169/naika.100.2275}, pmid = {21899163}, issn = {0021-5384}, mesh = {Humans ; POEMS Syndrome/*diagnosis/physiopathology/*therapy ; Stem Cell Transplantation ; Thalidomide/therapeutic use ; Transplantation, Autologous ; }, }
@article {pmid21898667, year = {2012}, author = {Erdogan, S and Alan, A}, title = {Gross anatomical and scanning electron microscopic studies of the oropharyngeal cavity in the European magpie (Pica pica) and the common raven (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Microscopy research and technique}, volume = {75}, number = {3}, pages = {379-387}, doi = {10.1002/jemt.21067}, pmid = {21898667}, issn = {1097-0029}, mesh = {Animals ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Mouth/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Pharynx/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Songbirds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {There is no descriptive information about morphology of the oropharyngeal cavity including tongue, palate, and laryngeal region in Corvidae family. This study not only presents the first definitive anatomical description of the structures in the oropharyngeal cavity of magpie and raven but also reviews and compares the scattered information on the morphology of the other avian species available in the literature. In this study, the organs of four birds (two magpies and two ravens) were used. The tongue in magpie and raven was considerably elongated and terminated with an oval-shaped apex. Although the lingual apex in the magpie was divided by fissure, no such bifurcation existed on that of raven. Lingual apex was quite distinctive in both species, and multiple acicular processes covered the apex. These occurrences on the tongue of magpie were replaced by thread-like processes as approaching the lingual body. In raven, these processes were mostly foliated, becoming longer toward the back of the lingua, and denser compared with raven. Moreover, we observed conical papillary crest, which was pointed backward and located between the lingual body and the radix of the tongue and pharyngeal conical papillae around the glottis and palate clefts in both species. There was a transversal fold separating the choanal cleft from the infundibular cleft in raven. Anatomy of the oropharyngeal cavity in the raven and magpie, which are the member of the same family, Corvidae, showed little differences and overall their oral morphological features were excessively similar.}, }
@article {pmid21889117, year = {2011}, author = {Kuller, LH and Lopez, OL}, title = {Dementia and Alzheimer's disease: a new direction.The 2010 Jay L. Foster Memorial Lecture.}, journal = {Alzheimer's &amp; dementia : the journal of the Alzheimer's Association}, volume = {7}, number = {5}, pages = {540-550}, pmid = {21889117}, issn = {1552-5279}, support = {P50 AG005133/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aged ; Alzheimer Disease/*diagnosis/*therapy ; Dementia/*diagnosis/*therapy ; Diagnostic Imaging/methods/trends ; Early Diagnosis ; Humans ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The modern era of Alzheimer's disease (AD) research began in the early 1980s with the establishment of AD research centers and expanded research programs at the National Institute on Aging.<br><br>METHODS: Over the past 30 years, there has been success in defining criteria for AD and dementia, association of important genetic disorders related to premature dementia in families, the association of apolipoprotein-E(4), and measurement of incidence and prevalence and selected risk factors. However, prevention and treatment have been elusive.<br><br>RESULTS: The development of new technologies, especially magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography to measure amyloid in&#xa0;vivo in the brain and glucose metabolism, cerebrospinal fluid examination, better genetic markers, large-scale longitudinal epidemiology studies, and preventive clinical trials has rapidly begun a new era of research that offers opportunities to better understand etiology, that is, determinants of amyloid biology in the brain, neurofibrillary tangles, synaptic loss, and dementia.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: There are three major hypotheses related to dementia: amyloid deposition and secondary synaptic loss as a unique disease, vascular injury, and "aging." New research must be hypothesis-driven and lead to testable approaches for treatment and prevention.}, }
@article {pmid21887286, year = {2011}, author = {Li, C and Yang, X and Ding, Y and Zhang, L and Fang, H and Tang, S and Jiang, Z}, title = {Do Père David's deer lose memories of their ancestral predators?.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {6}, number = {8}, pages = {e23623}, pmid = {21887286}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Deer/*physiology ; Dogs ; Female ; Male ; Memory/*physiology ; Models, Biological ; Predatory Behavior/*physiology ; Tape Recording ; Vocalization, Animal/physiology ; }, abstract = {Whether prey retains antipredator behavior after a long period of predator relaxation is an important question in predator-prey evolution. Père David's deer have been raised in enclosures for more than 1200 years and this isolation provides an opportunity to study whether Père David's deer still respond to the cues of their ancestral predators or to novel predators. We played back the sounds of crows (familiar sound) and domestic dogs (familiar non-predators), of tigers and wolves (ancestral predators), and of lions (potential naïve predator) to Père David's deer in paddocks, and blank sounds to the control group, and videoed the behavior of the deer during the experiment. We also showed life-size photo models of dog, leopard, bear, tiger, wolf, and lion to the deer and video taped their responses after seeing these models. Père David's deer stared at and approached the hidden loudspeaker when they heard the roars of tiger or lion. The deer listened to tiger roars longer, approached to tiger roars more and spent more time staring at the tiger model. The stags were also found to forage less in the trials of tiger roars than that of other sound playbacks. Additionally, it took longer for the deer to restore their normal behavior after they heard tiger roars, which was longer than that after the trial of other sound playbacks. Moreover, the deer were only found to walk away after hearing the sounds of tiger and wolf. Therefore, the tiger was probably the main predator for Père David's deer in ancient time. Our study implies that Père David's deer still retain the memories of the acoustic and visual cues of their ancestral predators in spite of the long term isolation from natural habitat.}, }
@article {pmid21884655, year = {2011}, author = {Wesche, S and Schuster, RC and Tobin, P and Dickson, C and Matthiessen, D and Graupe, S and Williams, M and Chan, HM}, title = {Community-based health research led by the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation.}, journal = {International journal of circumpolar health}, volume = {70}, number = {4}, pages = {396-406}, doi = {10.3402/ijch.v70i4.17846}, pmid = {21884655}, issn = {2242-3982}, mesh = {Climate Change ; *Community-Based Participatory Research ; Focus Groups ; Food Supply ; Health Services Research ; Humans ; *Indians, North American ; Northwest Territories ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This paper documents an exceptional research partnership developed between the Vuntut Gwitchin Government (VGG) in Old Crow, Yukon, with a group of scientists to examine northern food security and health as part of a larger, multidisciplinary International Polar Year (IPY) research program. We focus on the elements that enabled a successful community-researcher relationship. Study design. The VGG led the development of the research and acted as Principal Investigator on the IPY grant. The multidisciplinary collaboration spanned the physical, biological and health sciences, including issues related to food security.<br><br>METHODS: The food security and health component of this research was carried out using a series of complementary methods, including focus groups, structured interviews, a household questionnaire, an interactive workshop, community meetings, transcript analysis and a caribou flesh exposure assessment.<br><br>RESULTS: Results from the food security component are informing local and regional adaptation planning. The legacy of the research collaboration includes a number of results-based outputs for a range of stakeholders, a community-based environmental monitoring program, long-term research relationships and improved community capacity.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The type of collaboration described here provides a useful model for new types of participatory health research with northern communities.}, }
@article {pmid21879327, year = {2012}, author = {Sakai, K and Ono, K and Harada, H and Shima, K and Notoya, M and Yamada, M}, title = {Parkinson's disease showing progressive conduction aphasia.}, journal = {Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology}, volume = {33}, number = {2}, pages = {399-402}, pmid = {21879327}, issn = {1590-3478}, mesh = {Aged ; Aphasia/*etiology ; Brain/diagnostic imaging/pathology ; Female ; Fluorodeoxyglucose F18 ; Humans ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Parkinsonian Disorders/*complications ; Positron-Emission Tomography ; }, abstract = {Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) may develop progressive dementia late in their clinical course. Dementia in PD is mostly related to neuropathological findings of extensive Lewy bodies (LBs), with or without the coexistence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. Aphasia has been reported in patients with LB diseases with AD pathology; however, there have been no reports of typical PD patients developing progressive aphasia during their clinical course. We describe a female PD patient who later developed progressive conduction aphasia characterized by phonemic paraphasia and disturbance in repetition of short sentences without disturbance in writing or auditory comprehension. No episodes of fluctuations of attention, memory complaints, or planning errors were observed. She experienced episodes of visual hallucination. Her low scores on the Mini-Mental State Examination suggested impairment of orientation and attention, and her scores on Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices test indicated impaired visuospatial functions. However, her cognitive deficits were not sufficiently severe to impair her daily life. Brain magnetic resonance images revealed atrophy of the left superior temporal gyrus and widening of the left sylvian fissure. [(18)F]-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography revealed glucose hypometabolism in the left cerebral hemisphere. These findings may be related to conduction aphasia. During the progression of PD lesions, the brainstem LB is assumed to take an upward course, extend to the limbic system, and then extend to the neocortex. Conduction aphasia observed in our patient may be associated with an unusual progression of the LB pathology from the brainstem to the left temporoparietal lobe.}, }
@article {pmid21870493, year = {2011}, author = {Fadeeva, EO and Chernova, OF}, title = {[Peculiarities of the contour feather microstructure in the Corvidae family].}, journal = {Izvestiia Akademii nauk. Seriia biologicheskaia}, volume = {}, number = {4}, pages = {436-446}, pmid = {21870493}, issn = {1026-3470}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/anatomy &amp; histology ; Feathers/*ultrastructure ; Microscopy, Electron ; Passeriformes/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The results of comparative electron microscope study of the fine structure of the definitive contour feathers often Crows species (Perisoreus infaustus, Garrulus glandarius, Cyanopica cyanus, Pica Pica, Podoceus panderi, Nucifraga caryocatactes, Corvus monedula, C. frugilegus, C. cornix, C. corax) are presented. The results of the research allowed us to conclude that crows, along with the traditional elements of feather architectonics, have a number of species-specific microstructure characteristics that are taxonomically important.}, }
@article {pmid21865445, year = {2011}, author = {Langevin, SA and Bowen, RA and Ramey, WN and Sanders, TA and Maharaj, PD and Fang, Y and Cornelius, J and Barker, CM and Reisen, WK and Beasley, DWC and Barrett, ADT and Kinney, RM and Huang, CY and Brault, AC}, title = {Envelope and pre-membrane protein structural amino acid mutations mediate diminished avian growth and virulence of a Mexican West Nile virus isolate.}, journal = {The Journal of general virology}, volume = {92}, number = {Pt 12}, pages = {2810-2820}, pmid = {21865445}, issn = {1465-2099}, support = {R01 CI000235/CI/NCPDCID CDC HHS/United States ; CI000235/CI/NCPDCID CDC HHS/United States ; R01 AI061822/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; AI061822/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; AI55606/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Amino Acid Substitution ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/virology ; Cell Line ; Chickens ; Cloning, Molecular ; Crows/*virology ; DNA, Complementary/genetics ; Finches/*virology ; Membrane Proteins/genetics ; Mexico ; Mutation ; Phenotype ; Phylogeography ; Plasmids/genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Sparrows/*virology ; Viral Envelope Proteins/genetics/*metabolism ; Viral Load ; Virulence ; Virus Replication ; West Nile virus/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {The hallmark attribute of North American West Nile virus (WNV) strains has been high pathogenicity in certain bird species. Surprisingly, this avian virulent WNV phenotype has not been observed during its geographical expansion into the Caribbean, Central America and South America. One WNV variant (TM171-03-pp1) isolated in Mexico has demonstrated an attenuated phenotype in two widely distributed North American bird species, American crows (AMCRs) and house sparrows (HOSPs). In order to identify genetic determinants associated with attenuated avian replication of the TM171-03-pp1 variant, chimeric viruses between the NY99 and Mexican strains were generated, and their replicative capacity was assessed in cell culture and in AMCR, HOSP and house finch avian hosts. The results demonstrated that mutations in both the pre-membrane (prM-I141T) and envelope (E-S156P) genes mediated the attenuation phenotype of the WNV TM171-03-pp1 variant in a chicken macrophage cell line and in all three avian species assayed. Inclusion of the prM-I141T and E-S156P TM171-03-pp1 mutations in the NY99 backbone was necessary to achieve the avian attenuation level of the Mexican virus. Furthermore, reciprocal incorporation of both prM-T141I and E-P156S substitutions into the Mexican virus genome was necessary to generate a virus that exhibited avian virulence equivalent to the NY99 virus. These structural changes may indicate the presence of new evolutionary pressures exerted on WNV populations circulating in Latin America or may signify a genetic bottleneck that has constrained their epiornitic potential in alternative geographical locations.}, }
@article {pmid21859598, year = {2011}, author = {Sokunbi, MO and Staff, RT and Waiter, GD and Ahearn, TS and Fox, HC and Deary, IJ and Starr, JM and Whalley, LJ and Murray, AD}, title = {Inter-individual differences in fMRI entropy measurements in old age.}, journal = {IEEE transactions on bio-medical engineering}, volume = {58}, number = {11}, pages = {3206-3214}, doi = {10.1109/TBME.2011.2164793}, pmid = {21859598}, issn = {1558-2531}, support = {G0700704/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; /WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Aged ; Aging/*physiology ; Brain/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Longitudinal Studies ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/*methods ; Male ; Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted ; }, abstract = {We investigated the association between individual differences in cognitive performance in old age and the approximate entropy (ApEn) measured from functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data acquired from 40 participants of the Aberdeen Birth Cohort 1936 (ABC1936), while undergoing a visual information processing task: inspection time (IT). Participants took a version of the Moray House Test (MHT) No. 12 at age 11, a valid measure of childhood intelligence. The same individuals completed a test of non-verbal reasoning (Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices [RPM]) aged about 68 years. The IT, MHT and RPM scores were used as indicators of cognitive performance. Our results show that higher regional signal entropy is associated with better cognitive performance. This finding was independent of ability in childhood but not independent of current cognitive ability. ApEn is used for the first time to identify a potential source of individual differences in cognitive ability using fMRI data.}, }
@article {pmid21855614, year = {2011}, author = {Schmidt, J and Scheid, C and Kotrschal, K and Bugnyar, T and Schloegl, C}, title = {Gaze direction - a cue for hidden food in rooks (Corvus frugilegus)?.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {88}, number = {2}, pages = {88-93}, pmid = {21855614}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Choice Behavior/physiology ; Conditioning, Operant/physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; *Cues ; Eye Movements/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Fixation, Ocular/*physiology ; Head Movements/*physiology ; Male ; Motivation/physiology ; Photic Stimulation ; Reinforcement Schedule ; Reward ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Other individual's head- and eye-directions can be used as social cues indicating the presence of important events. Among birds, ravens and rooks have been shown to co-orient with conspecifics and with humans by following their gaze direction into distant space and behind visual screens. Both species use screens to cache food in private; also, it had been suggested that they may rely on gaze cues to detect hidden food. However, in an object-choice task, ravens failed to do so, and their competitive lifestyle may have prevented them from relying on these cues. Here we tested closely related and cooperative rooks. Food was hidden in one of two cups and the experimenter gazed at the baited cup. In a second experiment, we aimed to increase the birds' motivation to choose correctly by increasing the investment needed to obtain the reward. To do so, the birds had to pull on a string to obtain the cup. Here, the birds as a group tended to rely on gaze cues. In addition, individual birds quickly learned to use the cue in both experiments. Although rooks may not use gaze cues to find hidden food spontaneously, they may quickly learn to do so.}, }
@article {pmid21849941, year = {2011}, author = {Stenc Bradvica, I and Janculjak, D and Butkovic-Soldo, S and Vladetic, M}, title = {Cognitive dysfunction in idiopathic and vascular parkinsonism.}, journal = {Medicinski glasnik : official publication of the Medical Association of Zenica-Doboj Canton, Bosnia and Herzegovina}, volume = {8}, number = {2}, pages = {209-215}, pmid = {21849941}, issn = {1840-0132}, mesh = {Aged ; Cognition Disorders/complications/*diagnosis ; Dementia/complications/diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Parkinson Disease/*psychology ; Parkinson Disease, Secondary/*psychology ; Psychological Tests ; }, abstract = {AIM: To evaluate the characteristics of cognitive disturbances in patients with parkinsonism and to point out the need of following up those changes by highly specific tests.<br><br>METHODS: The first group consisted of patients with Parkinson's disease, and the second group of patients with vascular parkinsonism. The neuropsychological assessments were performed with mini mental state examination (MMSE) and the Raven progressive matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: The MMSE has shown a higher percentage of patients with vascular parkinsonism who had dementia. For evaluating the nonverbal possibilities, the aim of understanding the complex situation and the visual perception, the Raven's progressive matrices were used showing that in both groups of the patients those specific changes were highly present.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: It was concluded that MMSE and Raven's progressive matrices have to be obtained in early phases of the disease, and have to be repeated to follow up the therapy effect.}, }
@article {pmid21845567, year = {2011}, author = {Bakar, EE and Bakar, B}, title = {Memory difficulties of adult patients with shunted hydrocephalus: a clinical study.}, journal = {Turkish neurosurgery}, volume = {21}, number = {3}, pages = {325-329}, doi = {10.5137/1019-5149.JTN.4133-11.0}, pmid = {21845567}, issn = {2651-5032}, mesh = {Adult ; Cerebrospinal Fluid Shunts/*adverse effects ; Cognition/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Hydrocephalus/*psychology/*surgery ; Intelligence Tests ; Intracranial Pressure/physiology ; Male ; Memory Disorders/etiology/*psychology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Prospective Studies ; Verbal Learning/physiology ; }, abstract = {AIM: The purpose of this prospective study was to describe memory problems of adult patients with hydrocephalus.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: The research group consisted of healthy adults (control group) and hydrocephlic adults (hydrocephalus group). The hydrocephalus group (n: 19) had no clinical signs or symptoms of increased intracerebral pressure. The control group (n:20) was chosen from healthy adults. Both groups were evaluated by an experienced neuro-psychologist blinded to the groups. The examiner performed a battery of three different neuropsychological tests (Raven Standart Progressive Matrices, RSPM; Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test, RCFT; and Rey Auditory-Verbal Learning Test, AVLT) to all groups.<br><br>RESULTS: Almost all subtest scores of the AVLT and RCFT remained significant after the RSPM scores were controlled. Almost all neuropsychological test results of the hydrocephalus group were significantly worse than control group.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This prospective study showed that adult patients with hydrocephalus have serious problems in memory function which might be directly caused by the hydrocephalus.}, }
@article {pmid21831525, year = {2012}, author = {Darwich, L and Cabezón, O and Echeverria, I and Pabón, M and Marco, I and Molina-López, R and Alarcia-Alejos, O and López-Gatius, F and Lavín, S and Almería, S}, title = {Presence of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum DNA in the brain of wild birds.}, journal = {Veterinary parasitology}, volume = {183}, number = {3-4}, pages = {377-381}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.07.024}, pmid = {21831525}, issn = {1873-2550}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/parasitology ; Birds ; Brain/parasitology ; Coccidiosis/epidemiology/parasitology/*veterinary ; DNA, Protozoan/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Neospora/genetics/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Prevalence ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Spain ; Species Specificity ; Toxoplasma/genetics/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Toxoplasmosis, Animal/*epidemiology/parasitology ; }, abstract = {Toxoplasma gondii infections are prevalent in many avian species and can cause mortality in some bird hosts. Although T. gondii has been isolated from various species of birds, the role of many different species of wild birds in the epidemiology of T. gondii remains unknown. Neospora caninum, a closely related parasite to T. gondii, has been recently confirmed to infect domestic chickens and wild birds such as house sparrows (Passer domesticus). The present study reports the presence of T. gondii and N. caninum DNA by PCR in brain tissues of 14 species of wild birds from Spain. From a total of 200 samples analyzed, 12 samples (6%) were positive for T. gondii [5 Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius), 5 magpies (Pica pica), 1 black kite (Milvus migrans) and 1 Griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus)], while 3 samples (1.5%) were positive for N. caninum [2 magpies and 1 common buzzard (Buteo buteo)]. This is the first report of detection of T. gondii in magpies, griffon vulture and black kite and of N. caninum in common buzzard and magpies, extending the list of natural intermediate hosts for T. gondii and N. caninum infections to these species.}, }
@article {pmid21831324, year = {2011}, author = {Foppa, IM and Beard, RH and Mendenhall, IH}, title = {The impact of West Nile virus on the abundance of selected North American birds.}, journal = {BMC veterinary research}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {43}, pmid = {21831324}, issn = {1746-6148}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/transmission/*virology ; Birds ; Longitudinal Studies ; Markov Chains ; *Models, Biological ; Monte Carlo Method ; North America/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/transmission/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The emergence of West Nile virus (WNV) in North America has been associated with high mortality in the native avifauna and has raised concerns about the long-term impact of WNV on bird populations. Here, we present results from a longitudinal analysis of annual counts of six bird species, using North American Breeding Bird Survey data from ten states (1994 to 2010). We fit overdispersed Poisson models to annual counts. Counts from successive years were linked by an autoregressive process that depended on WNV transmission intensity (annual West Nile neuroinvasive disease reports) and was adjusted by El Niño Southern Oscillation events. These models were fit using a Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm.<br><br>RESULTS: Model fit was mostly excellent, especially for American Crows, for which our models explained between 26% and 81% of the observed variance. The impact of WNV on bird populations was quantitatively evaluated by contrasting hypothetical count trajectories (omission of WNV) with observed counts. Populations of American crows were most consistently affected with a substantial cumulative impact in six of ten states. The largest negative impact, almost 60%, was found in Illinois. A regionally substantial decline was also seen for American Robins and House Sparrows, while the other species appeared unaffected.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our results confirm findings from previous studies that single out American Crows as the species most vulnerable to WNV infection. We discuss strengths and limitations of this and other methods for quantifying the impact of WNV on bird populations.}, }
@article {pmid21829930, year = {2011}, author = {Varanda, Cde A and Fernandes, FD}, title = {[Syntactic awareness: probable correlations with central coherence and non-verbal intelligence in autism].}, journal = {Jornal da Sociedade Brasileira de Fonoaudiologia}, volume = {23}, number = {2}, pages = {142-151}, doi = {10.1590/s2179-64912011000200011}, pmid = {21829930}, issn = {2179-6491}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Autistic Disorder/*psychology ; Awareness/*physiology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Language ; *Language Development ; Male ; *Semantics ; Severity of Illness Index ; *Verbal Behavior ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To evaluate syntactic awareness, central coherence, non-verbal intelligence, social and communication development, interests and behavior of children with autistic spectrum disorders and to examine their probable correlations.<br><br>METHODS: Participants were ten subjects diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder, eight male and two female, with ages between 4 years e 9 months and 13 years and 4 months (mean age 9 years), who used oral language for communication. The following tests were used: Syntactic Awareness Test - Adapted (Prova de Consci&#xea;ncia Sint&#xe1;tica - Adaptada), Computerized jigsaw puzzles with picture and background and only with background; and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices - Special Scale. Subjects' parents answered the protocol Autism Diagnostic Interview - Revised (ADI-R).<br><br>RESULTS: The children with autism presented syntactic awareness performance similar to that of 6-year-old children with typical development. Sixty percent of the subjects showed non-verbal intelligence at a superior or average level. There were no correlations between the performances in syntactic awareness and the other tested variables.<br><br>CONCLUSION: There was no relationship between the performance in syntactic awareness and the results related to central coherence, non-verbal intelligence and social interaction deficits, difficulties in communication and restrict patterns interests of subjects with autism. The results suggest that these children seem to follow the development pattern of typically developing 6-year-old children in syntactic awareness abilities, only delayed.}, }
@article {pmid21827761, year = {2011}, author = {Wilcoxen, TE and Boughton, RK and Bridge, ES and Rensel, MA and Schoech, SJ}, title = {Age-related differences in baseline and stress-induced corticosterone in Florida scrub-jays.}, journal = {General and comparative endocrinology}, volume = {173}, number = {3}, pages = {461-466}, doi = {10.1016/j.ygcen.2011.07.007}, pmid = {21827761}, issn = {1095-6840}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Corticosterone/*blood ; Female ; Male ; Passeriformes/metabolism/*physiology ; *Stress, Physiological ; }, abstract = {In physiological studies of free-living species, it is essential to consider the context of the life history stage at which an individual was observed in order to link measures of physiology with ecological parameters. One such measure that is important to consider is the age of an individual. We tested whether baseline or stress-induced corticosterone levels vary with age in free-living Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) during the pre-breeding period. Corticosterone (CORT), the primary avian stress hormone, is released in response to stressful stimuli, and stimulates gluconeogenesis; however, it also serves as a chemical messenger that can influence other physiological processes, reproduction, and behavior. We monitored both baseline CORT levels longitudinally throughout a five-year period and stress-induced CORT responses over a shorter two-year period. We predicted that older jays would have lower baseline CORT levels and a dampened stress response compared to younger birds, as has been shown in other avian species. We found no significant differences in baseline CORT levels with age. We found a decrease in total corticosterone responses to a stressor with age, however, the oldest birds in the population showed greater total corticosterone responses to a stressor. These results may be a product of age-related changes in physiological processes related to the stress response or a result of selection acting on the population, resulting in only the most responsive individuals surviving to old age.}, }
@article {pmid21826441, year = {2011}, author = {Holm, L and Ullén, F and Madison, G}, title = {Intelligence and temporal accuracy of behaviour: unique and shared associations with reaction time and motor timing.}, journal = {Experimental brain research}, volume = {214}, number = {2}, pages = {175-183}, pmid = {21826441}, issn = {1432-1106}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Reaction Time/*physiology ; Time Perception/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Intelligence is associated with accuracy in a wide range of timing tasks. One source of such associations is likely to be individual differences in top-down control, e.g., sustained attention, that influence performance in both temporal tasks and other cognitively controlled behaviours. In addition, we have studied relations between intelligence and a simple rhythmic motor task, isochronous serial interval production (ISIP), and found a substantial component of that relation, which is independent of fluctuations in top-down control. The main purpose of the present study was to investigate whether such bottom-up mechanisms are involved also in the relation between intelligence and reaction time (RT) tasks. We thus investigated whether common variance between the ISIP and RT tasks underlies their respective associations with intelligence. Two hundred and twelve participants performed a simple RT task, a choice RT task and the ISIP task. Intelligence was assessed with the Raven SPM Plus. The analysed timing variables included mean and variability in the RT tasks and two variance components in the ISIP task. As predicted, RT and ISIP variables were associated with intelligence. The timing variables were positively intercorrelated, and a principal component analysis revealed a substantial first principal component that was strongly related to all timing variables, and positively correlated with intelligence. Furthermore, a commonality analysis demonstrated that the relations between intelligence and the timing variables involved a commonality between the timing variables as well as unique contributions from choice RT and ISIP. We discuss possible implications of these findings and argue that they support our main hypothesis, i.e., that relations between intelligence and RT tasks have a bottom-up component.}, }
@article {pmid21816172, year = {2011}, author = {Perego, P and Turconi, AC and Andreoni, G and Maggi, L and Beretta, E and Parini, S and Gagliardi, C}, title = {Cognitive ability assessment by brain-computer interface validation of a new assessment method for cognitive abilities.}, journal = {Journal of neuroscience methods}, volume = {201}, number = {1}, pages = {239-250}, doi = {10.1016/j.jneumeth.2011.06.025}, pmid = {21816172}, issn = {1872-678X}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Brain/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests/*standards ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; *User-Computer Interface ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) are systems which can provide communication and environmental control to people with severe neuromuscular diseases. The current study proposes a new BCI-based method for psychometric assessment when traditional or computerized testing cannot be used owing to the subject's output impairment. This administration protocol was based on, and validated against, a widely used clinical test (Raven Colored Progressive Matrix) in order to verify whether BCI affects the brain in terms of cognitive resource with a misstatement result. The operating protocol was structured into two phases: phase 1 was aimed at configuring the BCI system on the subject's features and train him/her to use it; during phase 2 the BCI system was reconfigured and the test performed. A step-by-step checking procedure was adopted to verify progressive inclusion/exclusion criteria and the underpinning variables. The protocol was validated on 19 healthy subjects and the BCI-based administration was compared with a paper-based administration. The results obtained by both methods were correlated as known for traditional assessment of a similarly culture free and reasoning based test. Although our findings need to be validated on pathological participants, in our healthy population the BCI-based administration did not affect performance and added a further control of the response due to the several variables included and analyzed by the computerized task.}, }
@article {pmid21813856, year = {2011}, author = {Nga, TT and Winichagoon, P and Dijkhuizen, MA and Khan, NC and Wasantwisut, E and Wieringa, FT}, title = {Decreased parasite load and improved cognitive outcomes caused by deworming and consumption of multi-micronutrient fortified biscuits in rural Vietnamese schoolchildren.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {85}, number = {2}, pages = {333-340}, pmid = {21813856}, issn = {1476-1645}, mesh = {Albendazole/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Anthelmintics/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Child ; Double-Blind Method ; Drug Therapy, Combination ; Female ; *Food ; Humans ; Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/*drug therapy ; *Learning ; Male ; Micronutrients/*administration &amp; dosage ; Rural Population ; Vietnam/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Micronutrient deficiencies are associated with impaired growth and cognitive function. A school-based fortification program might benefit schoolchildren but a high prevalence of parasite infestation might affect effectiveness. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 2 × 2 factorial trial was conducted to assess the efficacy of multi-micronutrient fortified biscuits with or without de-worming on growth, cognitive function, and parasite load in Vietnamese schoolchildren. Schoolchildren (n = 510), 6-8 years of age were randomly allocated to receive albendazole or placebo at baseline and four months of multi-micronutrient fortified biscuits (FB) or non-fortified biscuits. Children receiving FB for four months scored higher on two cognitive tests: Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices and the Digit Span Forward test. Children receiving albendazole plus FB had the lowest parasite load after four months. In children receiving FB, mid-upper arm circumference was slightly improved (+0.082 cm) but there were no differences in other indexes of anthropometry. Combining multi-micronutrient fortified biscuits with de-worming is an effective strategy.}, }
@article {pmid21807748, year = {2013}, author = {Van der Elst, W and Ouwehand, C and van Rijn, P and Lee, N and Van Boxtel, M and Jolles, J}, title = {The shortened Raven Standard Progressive Matrices: item response theory-based psychometric analyses and normative data.}, journal = {Assessment}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {48-59}, doi = {10.1177/1073191111415999}, pmid = {21807748}, issn = {1552-3489}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*psychology ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Logistic Models ; Male ; Mathematical Computing ; Middle Aged ; Netherlands ; Psychometrics/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Reference Values ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sex Factors ; Software ; }, abstract = {The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of a shortened version of the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) under an item response theory framework (the one- and two-parameter logistic models). The shortened Raven SPM was administered to N = 453 cognitively healthy adults aged between 24 and 83 years. The IQ point estimates that were obtained under the one- and two-parameter logistic models were very similar (r = .97), but the two-parameter logistic-based test version had a higher measurement precision. The results showed that older age and being female were associated with a lower Raven SPM test performance. A user-friendly computer program was provided to facilitate the scoring and norming of the shortened Raven SPM under the different frameworks.}, }
@article {pmid21806779, year = {2013}, author = {Bogale, A and Stoecker, BJ and Kennedy, T and Hubbs-Tait, L and Thomas, D and Abebe, Y and Hambidge, KM}, title = {Nutritional status and cognitive performance of mother-child pairs in Sidama, Southern Ethiopia.}, journal = {Maternal &amp; child nutrition}, volume = {9}, number = {2}, pages = {274-284}, pmid = {21806779}, issn = {1740-8709}, support = {R01 HD053053/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Anthropometry ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Diet ; Educational Status ; Ethiopia ; Family Characteristics ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; Humans ; Malnutrition/*metabolism ; Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; Mothers ; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; *Nutritional Status ; Rural Population ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to assess the nutritional status and cognitive performance of women and their 5-year-old children using a cross-sectional design. Cognitive performance of mothers and children was assessed with Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (CPM) and Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children-II (KABC-II). Demographic characteristics, food consumption patterns and anthropometry were also measured. Four rural districts in Sidama, southern Ethiopia served as the setting for this study. Subjects were one hundred women and their 5-year-old children. Mean ± standard deviation age of the mothers was 29 ± 6 years and family size was 7.0 ± 2.6. Maternal body mass index (BMI) ranged from 15.3 to 29.0 with 14% of the mothers having BMI < 18.5. Anthropometric assessment of children revealed 29% to be stunted (height-for-age z-score < -2) and 12% to be underweight (weight-for-age z-score < -2). Mothers' education significantly contributed to prediction of both mothers' and children's cognitive test scores. There were significant differences in mean cognitive test scores between stunted and non-stunted, and between underweight and normal-weight children. Height-for-age z-scores were correlated with scores for short-term memory (r = 0.42, P < 0.001), and visual processing (r = 0.42, P < 0.001) indices and weight-for-age z-scores were also correlated with scores of short-term memory (r = 0.41, P < 0.001) and visual processing (r = 0.43, P < 0.001) indices. Malnutrition in the community likely contributed to the cognitive performance of the subjects. Performance on memory and visual processing tasks was significantly lower in children with growth deficits suggesting that efficient and cost effective methods to alleviate malnutrition and food insecurity would impact not only child health but also cognitive function.}, }
@article {pmid21798354, year = {2011}, author = {Zipunnikov, V and Caffo, B and Yousem, DM and Davatzikos, C and Schwartz, BS and Crainiceanu, C}, title = {Functional principal component model for high-dimensional brain imaging.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {58}, number = {3}, pages = {772-784}, pmid = {21798354}, issn = {1095-9572}, support = {R01NS060910/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 NS060910-03/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 EB012547/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; R01 EB012547-01/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; R01 NS060910-02/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; EB012547/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; R01 EB012547-02/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; R01 NS060910/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Brain Mapping/*methods ; Humans ; Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/*methods ; *Models, Neurological ; Principal Component Analysis/*methods ; }, abstract = {We explore a connection between the singular value decomposition (SVD) and functional principal component analysis (FPCA) models in high-dimensional brain imaging applications. We formally link right singular vectors to principal scores of FPCA. This, combined with the fact that left singular vectors estimate principal components, allows us to deploy the numerical efficiency of SVD to fully estimate the components of FPCA, even for extremely high-dimensional functional objects, such as brain images. As an example, a FPCA model is fit to high-resolution morphometric (RAVENS) images. The main directions of morphometric variation in brain volumes are identified and discussed.}, }
@article {pmid21792628, year = {2012}, author = {Bogale, BA and Sugawara, S and Sakano, K and Tsuda, S and Sugita, S}, title = {Long-term memory of color stimuli in the jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {15}, number = {2}, pages = {285-291}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-011-0439-9}, pmid = {21792628}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Color Perception ; *Crows ; Discrimination Learning ; Discrimination, Psychological ; *Memory, Long-Term ; Photic Stimulation ; }, abstract = {Wild-caught jungle crows (n = 20) were trained to discriminate between color stimuli in a two-alternative discrimination task. Next, crows were tested for long-term memory after 1-, 2-, 3-, 6-, and 10-month retention intervals. This preliminary study showed that jungle crows learn the task and reach a discrimination criterion (80% or more correct choices in two consecutive sessions of ten trials) in a few trials, and some even in a single session. Most, if not all, crows successfully remembered the constantly reinforced visual stimulus during training after all retention intervals. These results suggest that jungle crows have a high retention capacity for learned information, at least after a 10-month retention interval and make no or very few errors. This study is the first to show long-term memory capacity of color stimuli in corvids following a brief training that memory rather than rehearsal was apparent. Memory of visual color information is vital for exploitation of biological resources in crows. We suspect that jungle crows could remember the learned color discrimination task even after a much longer retention interval.}, }
@article {pmid21789994, year = {2011}, author = {Pravdukhina, OY and Kodolova, OP}, title = {[Temporal dynamics of morphologic diversity of the Japanese scallop Mizuhopecten Yessoensis (Jay, 1856)].}, journal = {Izvestiia Akademii nauk. Seriia biologicheskaia}, volume = {}, number = {3}, pages = {295-307}, pmid = {21789994}, issn = {1026-3470}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Aquaculture ; Environment ; Oceans and Seas ; Organ Size/*physiology ; Pectinidae/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Population Density ; }, abstract = {The temporal diversity of 11 morphological features of both shell valves in eight cultivated samples of the Japanese scallop M. yessoensis from Alexeev Bay (Popov Island, Sea ofJapan) at different ages and from different generations was analyzed. The sample diversity with respect to each investigated feature was observed. The sample differences in the studied features as well as shell valve variability within the sample were demonstrated to be determined by both mollusk age and sample generation. This phenomenon is considered to be the result of differences in the environmental influence on each mollusk generation under constant technological conditions.}, }
@article {pmid21777824, year = {2011}, author = {Holmes, D}, title = {Jay Nutt: a boatman's calling.}, journal = {The Lancet. Neurology}, volume = {10}, number = {8}, pages = {686}, doi = {10.1016/S1474-4422(11)70163-6}, pmid = {21777824}, issn = {1474-4465}, mesh = {*Awards and Prizes ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Levodopa/*history/pharmacokinetics ; Parkinson Disease/drug therapy/*history/metabolism ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid21773746, year = {2012}, author = {Roth, TC and LaDage, LD and Pravosudov, VV}, title = {Evidence for long-term spatial memory in a parid.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {15}, number = {2}, pages = {149-154}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-011-0440-3}, pmid = {21773746}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {MH076797/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; MH079892/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior/psychology ; *Memory, Long-Term/physiology ; *Songbirds/physiology ; *Space Perception/physiology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Many animals use spatial memory. Although much work has examined the accuracy of spatial memory, few studies have explicitly focused on its longevity. The importance of long-term spatial memory for foraging has been demonstrated in several cases. However, the importance of such long-term memory for all animals is unclear. In this study, we present the first evidence that a parid species (the black-capped chickadee, Poecile atricapillus) can remember the location of a single food item for at least 6 months under an associative-learning spatial memory paradigm with multiple reinforcements. We did not detect a significant difference in memory longevity between two populations of chickadees shown previously to differ in short-term spatial memory and hippocampal morphology, an area of the brain involved in spatial memory. Our study showed that small birds such as parids can maintain spatial memories for long periods, a feat shown previously only in corvids. Moreover, we were able to demonstrate this longevity within the context of only 16 repeated trials. We speculate that this ability may potentially be useful in relocating caches if reinforced by repeated visits. Future studies are necessary to test whether our results were specifically due to multiple reinforcements of the food-containing location and whether parids may have similar memory longevity during food-caching experiences in the wild.}, }
@article {pmid21756417, year = {2012}, author = {Vazquez, V and Alonso, V and Luna, F}, title = {Biological fitness and action opportunity of natural selection in an urban population of Cuba: Plaza de la Revolución, Havana.}, journal = {Journal of biosocial science}, volume = {44}, number = {2}, pages = {155-163}, doi = {10.1017/S0021932011000393}, pmid = {21756417}, issn = {1469-7599}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Birth Rate ; Cuba ; Female ; *Fertility ; Humans ; Maternal Mortality/*trends ; Middle Aged ; Pregnancy ; Residence Characteristics ; Selection, Genetic/*genetics/physiology ; Urban Population/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {This paper describes the biological fitness of an urban population of Havana city, Plaza de la Revolución, which has the lowest fertility and the highest demographic ageing in Cuba. The aim is to assess the biological fitness of this community through the indexes of action opportunity of natural selection, to determine its evolutionary pattern and the influence of its socio-cultural peculiarity. Demographic data were obtained from the reproductive histories of 1200 women between the ages of 55 and 64. Data concerning mortality and surviving offspring from the first embryonic stages until age of reproduction were also collected. In order to measure the level of biological fitness two indexes were used: the Crow index of action opportunity of natural selection and the corrected index proposed by Johnston and Kensinger, which takes into account prenatal mortality. This corrected index was calculated including and excluding induced abortions in order to evaluate the contribution of these to biological fitness. When only postnatal mortality was considered, the results showed an evolutionary pattern similar to that of developed countries, based on low mortality and fertility. However, when prenatal mortality was taken into account, biological fitness decreased and the corrected index of natural selection was 4.5 times higher than when miscarriages and fetal deaths were not considered. Moreover, this corrected index was 2.65 times higher when induced miscarriages were considered, indicating the large decrease in biological fitness as a result of the current reproductive behaviour of frequent induced abortion.}, }
@article {pmid21751005, year = {2012}, author = {Mikolasch, S and Kotrschal, K and Schloegl, C}, title = {Is caching the key to exclusion in corvids? The case of carrion crows (Corvus corone corone).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {73-82}, pmid = {21751005}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Choice Behavior ; *Crows ; Feeding Behavior/psychology ; Humans ; Male ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {Recently, two corvid species, food-caching ravens and non-caching jackdaws, have been tested in an exclusion performance (EP) task. While the ravens chose by exclusion, the jackdaws did not. Thus, foraging behaviour may affect EP abilities. To investigate this possibility, another food-caching corvid species, the carrion crow (Corvus corone corone), was tested in the same exclusion task. We hid food under one of two cups and subsequently lifted either both cups, or the baited or the un-baited cup. The crows were significantly above chance when both cups were lifted or when only the baited cup was lifted. When the empty cup was lifted, we found considerable inter-individual variation, with some birds having a significant preference for the un-baited but manipulated cup. In a follow-up task, we always provided the birds with the full information about the food location, but manipulated in which order they saw the hiding or the removal of food. Interestingly, they strongly preferred the cup which was manipulated last, even if it did not contain any food. Therefore, we repeated the first experiment but controlled for the movement of the cups. In this case, more crows found the food reliably in the un-baited condition. We conclude that carrion crows are able to choose by exclusion, but local enhancement has a strong influence on their performance and may overshadow potential inferential abilities. However, these findings support the hypothesis that caching might be a key to exclusion in corvids.}, }
@article {pmid21749994, year = {2011}, author = {Salarirad, S and Staff, RT and Fox, HC and Deary, IJ and Whalley, L and Murray, AD}, title = {Childhood intelligence and brain white matter hyperintensities predict fluid intelligence age 78-81 years: a 1921 Aberdeen birth cohort study.}, journal = {Age and ageing}, volume = {40}, number = {5}, pages = {562-567}, doi = {10.1093/ageing/afr065}, pmid = {21749994}, issn = {1468-2834}, support = {G0700704/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Age Factors ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Aging/pathology/psychology ; Brain/*pathology ; *Cerebrovascular Disorders/pathology/psychology ; Chi-Square Distribution ; Child ; *Cognition ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Hospitals, University ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Models, Statistical ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Scotland ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: to evaluate the role of childhood intelligence and white matter hyperintensities (WMH) in the prediction of the trajectory of fluid intelligence in healthy old people from age 78 to 81.<br><br>DESIGN: observational follow-up study from 1999 to 2002.<br><br>SETTING: a university teaching hospital in Aberdeen, UK.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: a total of 106 volunteers born in 1921, with childhood intelligence records at 11, recruited 1997-98 to a follow-up study.<br><br>MEASUREMENTS: participants underwent brain MRI in 1999-2000, to obtain measurements of brain WMH using Scheltens' scale and a test of fluid intelligence (Raven's Progressive Matrices) on three occasions between 1999 and 2002.<br><br>RESULTS: in a latent growth model, we found a significant association between childhood intelligence and the intercept, but not the slope, of fluid cognitive ability in late adulthood. Similarly, baseline WMH score was associated with the intercept of late life cognitive ability, but not the slope. Age at imaging was associated with slope but not intercept. There was no significant association between sex and intercept or slope of late life cognitive ability.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: results suggest that brain MRI measures of WMH (attributed to cerebrovascular disease) and childhood intelligence significantly contribute to late life fluid cognitive ability but not to the trajectory of age-related change in fluid intelligence. We also show that age is associated with the cognitive trajectory from 78 to 81 years, even within our narrow age range sample. This may be a consequence of the recruitment pattern, with those having greater WMH burden, and who subsequently declined, being recruited later in the study.}, }
@article {pmid21739837, year = {2011}, author = {Chutzpah, I}, title = {A dentist for the ages. Interview by Jay Cohen.}, journal = {Pennsylvania dental journal}, volume = {78}, number = {1}, pages = {45}, pmid = {21739837}, issn = {0031-4439}, mesh = {Dentistry ; *Dentists ; Humans ; *Wit and Humor as Topic ; }, }
@article {pmid21731300, year = {2011}, author = {Sandhu, TS and Sidhu, DS and Dhillon, MS}, title = {Antigenic distribution of west nile virus in various organs of wildly infected american crows (corvus brachyrhynchos).}, journal = {Journal of global infectious diseases}, volume = {3}, number = {2}, pages = {138-142}, pmid = {21731300}, issn = {0974-8245}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Since its discovery in the western hemisphere in 1999, West Nile virus (WNv) has caused extensive bird mortality across North America, especially in American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) which are highly susceptible to WNv. In this study, antigenic distribution of WNv among different organs of American crows was studied, using the immunohistochemistry technique (IHC).<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Dead crows reported by residents were collected, transported on ice, and were necropsied for heart, lung, brain, intestine, kidney, liver, spleen, pancreas, and gonad tissues. Gross examination was performed on brain, heart, lung, liver, kidney, spleen, bursa of fabricius, gastrointestinal tract, skeletal muscle, pancreas, reproductive tract, and skin. Gross hemorrhage of brain, splenomegaly, meningoencephalitis, myocarditis, and trauma were sporadically observed in some of the infected carcasses. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue sections were stained with IHC technique followed by counter staining with hematoxylin and eosin.<br><br>RESULTS: WNv antigen was detected in brain, spleen, heart, kidney, liver, gonads, intestine, lung, and pancreas. The spleen was found to be positive in all infected crows, followed by kidney, liver, and duodenum (95% each). Heart and pancreas were positive in 63% while brain was positive in 36.5% of the infected crows.<br><br>CONCLUSION: More than one tissue sample is suggested to screen WNv infection using IHC technique. IHC has the advantage of correlating the visual destruction of tissue architecture with the presence of stained WNv antigen but as compared to PCR, IHC has the disadvantage of longer turnaround time, which is critical when used as a surveillance tool.}, }
@article {pmid21726940, year = {2011}, author = {Pacheco, MA and Escalante, AA and Garner, MM and Bradley, GA and Aguilar, RF}, title = {Haemosporidian infection in captive masked bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus ridgwayi), an endangered subspecies of the northern bobwhite quail.}, journal = {Veterinary parasitology}, volume = {182}, number = {2-4}, pages = {113-120}, pmid = {21726940}, issn = {1873-2550}, support = {R01 GM080586/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 GM080586-03/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; R01GM080586/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Zoo ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology/pathology ; *Colinus ; *Endangered Species ; Haemosporida/*classification ; Protozoan Infections, Animal/*parasitology/pathology ; }, abstract = {The avian haemosporidian parasites (phylum Apicomplexa) are taxonomically diverse and cosmopolitan in distribution; infecting most bird families. Sources of concern are reports of clinical haemosporidian infections in birds kept as part of zoo and aviary collections. Recently, severe and acute mortality episodes have been reported in masked bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus ridgwayi), an endangered subspecies from the American Southwest. Two hundred and five eggs of the captive flock held in Arivaca, Arizona, were hatched at a zoo in the American Southwest. Thirty-four sub-adult or adult animals had lesions associated with tissue phases of haemoparasites, especially vasculitis, ventricular leiomyositis and ulcerative pododermatitis. Molecular techniques applied to blood collected from the zoo's last twelve remaining animals resulted in the detection of a Plasmodium juxtanucleare-like and Haemoproteus sp. parasites. A Raven (Corvus corax), in a contiguous exhibit, was positive for the same P. juxtanucleare-like parasite, but remained asymptomatic for three years following detection. These findings indicate that other birds in the exhibit within the zoo premises could act as reservoirs. We conclude that haemosporidian infections could be a factor in the demise of the captive masked bobwhite quails housed at the zoo. We suggest that active surveillance for haemoporidian parasites should be incorporated as a precaution to ex situ conservation efforts of susceptible endangered species.}, }
@article {pmid21719846, year = {2011}, author = {Keller, JI and Shriver, WG and Waldenström, J and Griekspoor, P and Olsen, B}, title = {Prevalence of Campylobacter in wild birds of the mid-Atlantic region, USA.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {47}, number = {3}, pages = {750-754}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-47.3.750}, pmid = {21719846}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/microbiology ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology ; Birds ; Campylobacter Infections/epidemiology/*veterinary ; Campylobacter coli/*isolation &amp; purification ; Campylobacter jejuni/*isolation &amp; purification ; Campylobacter lari/*isolation &amp; purification ; Female ; Male ; Mid-Atlantic Region/epidemiology ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Prevalence ; }, abstract = {We evaluated the occurrence of three Campylobacter species--C. jejuni, C. coli, and C. lari--from 333 wild bird fecal samples collected at Tri-State Bird Rescue and Research in Newark, Delaware, in 2008. Using multiplex polymerase chain reaction, we detected C. jejuni from six avian families with an overall prevalence rate of 7.2%. We did not detect any other Campylobacter species. Campylobacter jejuni prevalence ranged widely between different avian families with crows (Corvidae) and gulls (Laridae) having the highest prevalence rates (23% and 25%, respectively).}, }
@article {pmid21719205, year = {2011}, author = {De Silva, PN}, title = {Does the association with diabetes say more about schizophrenia and its treatment?--the GLUT hypothesis.}, journal = {Medical hypotheses}, volume = {77}, number = {4}, pages = {529-531}, doi = {10.1016/j.mehy.2011.06.022}, pmid = {21719205}, issn = {1532-2777}, mesh = {Animals ; Clozapine/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Diabetes Complications ; Dopamine/physiology ; Glucose/metabolism ; Glucose Transporter Type 1/antagonists &amp; inhibitors/*physiology ; Glucose Transporter Type 3/antagonists &amp; inhibitors/*physiology ; Haloperidol/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Humans ; Mice ; *Models, Theoretical ; Schizophrenia/*complications/drug therapy ; }, abstract = {All effective anti psychotic drugs block glucose transporter proteins (GLUTs), peripherally and in the brain. These drugs are implicated in hyperglycaemia as demonstrated in mouse and human studies. Clozapine is the strongest blocker, with Haloperidol the weakest. The GLUT hypothesis suggests that schizophrenia is partly due to poor functioning of brain glucose transporters (GLUT 1 and 3). Neuronal glucose malnutrition could result in excessive neuronal pruning (so called Crow's Type 2 with a predominance of negative symptoms) or result in recurrent/ineffective pruning (Type 1 with positive symptoms). GLUT blockade by anti psychotic agents could assist Type 1 patients to complete the pruning process by deactivating already damaged neurones and circuits, but will make Type 2 patients more cognitively impaired. Future treatment options are discussed in line with the above formulation.}, }
@article {pmid21715408, year = {2012}, author = {Cornell, HN and Marzluff, JM and Pecoraro, S}, title = {Social learning spreads knowledge about dangerous humans among American crows.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {279}, number = {1728}, pages = {499-508}, pmid = {21715408}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Face ; Humans ; *Learning ; Seasons ; *Social Behavior ; Visual Perception ; Washington ; }, abstract = {Individuals face evolutionary trade-offs between the acquisition of costly but accurate information gained firsthand and the use of inexpensive but possibly less reliable social information. American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) use both sources of information to learn the facial features of a dangerous person. We exposed wild crows to a novel 'dangerous face' by wearing a unique mask as we trapped, banded and released 7-15 birds at five study sites near Seattle, WA, USA. An immediate scolding response to the dangerous mask after trapping by previously captured crows demonstrates individual learning, while an immediate response by crows that were not captured probably represents conditioning to the trapping scene by the mob of birds that assembled during the capture. Later recognition of dangerous masks by lone crows that were never captured is consistent with horizontal social learning. Independent scolding by young crows, whose parents had conditioned them to scold the dangerous mask, demonstrates vertical social learning. Crows that directly experienced trapping later discriminated among dangerous and neutral masks more precisely than did crows that learned through social means. Learning enabled scolding to double in frequency and spread at least 1.2 km from the place of origin over a 5 year period at one site.}, }
@article {pmid21711193, year = {2011}, author = {Strugnell, BW and Dagleish, MP and Bayne, CW and Brown, M and Ainsworth, HL and Nicholas, RA and Wood, A and Hodgson, JC}, title = {Investigations into an outbreak of corvid respiratory disease associated with Pasteurella multocida.}, journal = {Avian pathology : journal of the W.V.P.A}, volume = {40}, number = {3}, pages = {329-336}, doi = {10.1080/03079457.2011.571659}, pmid = {21711193}, issn = {1465-3338}, mesh = {Air Sacs/pathology ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*microbiology/pathology ; Disease Outbreaks/*veterinary ; England/epidemiology ; *Passeriformes ; Pasteurella Infections/epidemiology/microbiology/pathology/*veterinary ; *Pasteurella multocida/classification/genetics ; Pneumonia, Bacterial/microbiology/pathology/veterinary ; }, abstract = {The possible cause of disease and mortality in corvids on an outdoor pig unit in the north of England between August 2007 and March 2008 was investigated. Nine carrion crows (Corvus corone corone) and nine rooks (Corvus frugilegus), comprising five live-caught birds with clinical signs of respiratory disease, one live-caught bird without respiratory disease, and 12 birds submitted dead were examined. Clinical signs, gross and histopathological examination, microbiology and toxicology indicated that Pasteurella multocida infection was the cause of disease. Molecular and serotyping analyses showed that P. multocida isolates (obtained from live-caught birds with clinical respiratory disease) were all capsular type F with a mix of somatic serotypes 3, 4 and 7. Immunohistochemistry increased the diagnostic sensitivity of the analysis and detected P. multocida within the pulmonary lesions of all affected live-caught birds and 10 of 12 birds found dead. These findings suggest that wild corvids in the UK can suffer from lung pathology associated with P. multocida and, as potential vectors of P. multocida, may pose a risk to domestic poultry.}, }
@article {pmid21700277, year = {2011}, author = {Schuster, RC and Gamberg, M and Dickson, C and Chan, HM}, title = {Assessing risk of mercury exposure and nutritional benefits of consumption of caribou (Rangifer tarandus) in the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation community of Old Crow, Yukon, Canada.}, journal = {Environmental research}, volume = {111}, number = {6}, pages = {881-887}, doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2011.05.025}, pmid = {21700277}, issn = {1096-0953}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Diet ; Environmental Exposure ; Female ; *Food Contamination ; Humans ; *Indians, North American ; Kidney/chemistry ; Liver/chemistry ; Male ; Meat/*analysis ; Mercury/*toxicity ; Muscle, Skeletal/chemistry ; Reindeer ; Risk Assessment ; Young Adult ; Yukon Territory ; }, abstract = {The contamination of traditional foods with chemical pollutants is a challenge to the food security of Aboriginal Peoples. Mercury levels are generally low in terrestrial animals; however renal mercury levels have been shown to change over time in the Porcupine Caribou Herd, the principal food source for the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation of Old Crow in Yukon, Canada. Seventy-five Porcupine Caribou muscle, sixty-three kidney and three liver samples were analyzed for total mercury. Average concentrations were 0.003, 0.360 and 0.120mg/kg wet weight total mercury for muscle, kidney and liver, respectively. Consumption data of caribou muscle, kidney and liver were collected from twenty-six adults in Vuntut Gwitchin households. Women of child-bearing age (n=5) consumed a median of 71.5g/person/day of caribou muscle and 0.0g/person/day kidney but consumed no liver; median consumptions for all other adults (women aged 40+ and all men, n=21) were 75.8, 3.2 and 2.5g/person/day for meat, kidney and liver, respectively. Median dietary exposures to total mercury from caribou tissues were estimated to be 0.138μg/kg body weight for women of child-bearing age and 0.223μg/kg body weight for other adults. Caribou tissues were found to contribute high levels of important nutrients to the diet and pose minimal health risk from mercury exposure.}, }
@article {pmid21698275, year = {2011}, author = {Colzato, LS and Ruiz, MJ and van den Wildenberg, WP and Hommel, B}, title = {Khat use is associated with impaired working memory and cognitive flexibility.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {6}, number = {6}, pages = {e20602}, pmid = {21698275}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adult ; Africa, Eastern ; *Catha ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory Disorders/*etiology ; }, abstract = {RATIONALE: Khat consumption has increased during the last decades in Eastern Africa and has become a global phenomenon spreading to ethnic communities in the rest of the world, such as The Netherlands, United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States. Very little is known, however, about the relation between khat use and cognitive control functions in khat users.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: We studied whether khat use is associated with changes in working memory (WM) and cognitive flexibility, two central cognitive control functions.<br><br>METHODS: Khat users and khat-free controls were matched in terms of sex, ethnicity, age, alcohol and cannabis consumption, and IQ (Raven's progressive matrices). Groups were tested on cognitive flexibility, as measured by a Global-Local task, and on WM using an N-back task.<br><br>RESULT: Khat users performed significantly worse than controls on tasks tapping into cognitive flexibility as well as monitoring of information in WM.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The present findings suggest that khat use impairs both cognitive flexibility and the updating of information in WM. The inability to monitor information in WM and to adjust behavior rapidly and flexibly may have repercussions for daily life activities.}, }
@article {pmid21687666, year = {2011}, author = {Auersperg, AM and von Bayern, AM and Gajdon, GK and Huber, L and Kacelnik, A}, title = {Flexibility in problem solving and tool use of kea and New Caledonian crows in a multi access box paradigm.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {6}, number = {6}, pages = {e20231}, pmid = {21687666}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Food ; Male ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Psittaciformes/*physiology ; Reward ; Time Factors ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Parrots and corvids show outstanding innovative and flexible behaviour. In particular, kea and New Caledonian crows are often singled out as being exceptionally sophisticated in physical cognition, so that comparing them in this respect is particularly interesting. However, comparing cognitive mechanisms among species requires consideration of non-cognitive behavioural propensities and morphological characteristics evolved from different ancestry and adapted to fit different ecological niches. We used a novel experimental approach based on a Multi-Access-Box (MAB). Food could be extracted by four different techniques, two of them involving tools. Initially all four options were available to the subjects. Once they reached criterion for mastering one option, this task was blocked, until the subjects became proficient in another solution. The exploratory behaviour differed considerably. Only one (of six) kea and one (of five) NCC mastered all four options, including a first report of innovative stick tool use in kea. The crows were more efficient in using the stick tool, the kea the ball tool. The kea were haptically more explorative than the NCC, discovered two or three solutions within the first ten trials (against a mean of 0.75 discoveries by the crows) and switched more quickly to new solutions when the previous one was blocked. Differences in exploration technique, neophobia and object manipulation are likely to explain differential performance across the set of tasks. Our study further underlines the need to use a diversity of tasks when comparing cognitive traits between members of different species. Extension of a similar method to other taxa could help developing a comparative cognition research program.}, }
@article {pmid21681486, year = {2011}, author = {Strickland, D and Kielstra, B and Ryan Norris, D}, title = {Experimental evidence for a novel mechanism driving variation in habitat quality in a food-caching bird.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {167}, number = {4}, pages = {943-950}, pmid = {21681486}, issn = {1432-1939}, mesh = {Animals ; *Ecosystem ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Genetic Fitness ; Ontario ; Population Dynamics ; Reproduction ; Seasons ; Songbirds/*physiology ; Trees/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Variation in habitat quality can have important consequences for fitness and population dynamics. For food-caching species, a critical determinant of habitat quality is normally the density of storable food, but it is also possible that quality is driven by the ability of habitats to preserve food items. The food-caching gray jay (Perisoreus canadensis) occupies year-round territories in the coniferous boreal and subalpine forests of North America, but does not use conifer seed crops as a source of food. Over the last 33 years, we found that the occupancy rate of territories in Algonquin Park (ON, Canada) has declined at a higher rate in territories with a lower proportion of conifers compared to those with a higher proportion. Individuals occupying territories with a low proportion of conifers were also less likely to successfully fledge young. Using chambers to simulate food caches, we conducted an experiment to examine the hypothesis that coniferous trees are better able to preserve the perishable food items stored in summer and fall than deciduous trees due to their antibacterial and antifungal properties. Over a 1-4 month exposure period, we found that mealworms, blueberries, and raisins all lost less weight when stored on spruce and pine trees compared to deciduous and other coniferous trees. Our results indicate a novel mechanism to explain how habitat quality may influence the fitness and population dynamics of food-caching animals, and has important implications for understanding range limits for boreal breeding animals.}, }
@article {pmid21681477, year = {2012}, author = {Goto, K and Watanabe, S}, title = {Large-billed crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) have retrospective but not prospective metamemory.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {27-35}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-011-0428-z}, pmid = {21681477}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Judgment ; Male ; *Memory ; Mental Recall ; Reward ; }, abstract = {Evidence of metamemory, the ability to monitor one's own memory, has been obtained in some primates, but it appears to be weaker in other species. In this study, we examined whether crows flexibly modulate their behavior by monitoring the strength of memory trace in a delayed matching-to-sample task using two paradigms. First, crows performing a memory test were given an escape option to decline taking the test (prospective metamemory). Second, crows were given the escape option as a "not confident" report after completing the test (retrospective metamemory). Accurate memory performance yielded a reward with a higher probability, whereas inaccurate memory performance resulted in no such recompense. The escape option yielded a reward with a lower probability. In the prospective metamemory test, crows escaped the memory test more frequently with longer delay intervals than they did with shorter delay intervals but no more frequently in the sample-omission than the sample-present trials, indicating that the crows decided to take the test or decline it by using the delay interval as a cue. In contrast, in the retrospective metamemory test, the crows escaped the memory test more frequently when their memory-test response was incorrect than correct and more frequently in the sample-omission than the sample-present trials, indicating that the crows recognized confidence regarding their choice in the memory test and utilized the escape option to maximize reward probability. Although these results suggest that crows retrospectively monitor the strength of memory trace, their prospective metamemory ability has not yet been confirmed in the present paradigm.}, }
@article {pmid21676193, year = {2011}, author = {Oehm, J and Juen, A and Nagiller, K and Neuhauser, S and Traugott, M}, title = {Molecular scatology: how to improve prey DNA detection success in avian faeces?.}, journal = {Molecular ecology resources}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {620-628}, doi = {10.1111/j.1755-0998.2011.03001.x}, pmid = {21676193}, issn = {1755-0998}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; DNA/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Feces/*chemistry ; *Feeding Behavior ; Insecta/*genetics ; Molecular Biology/methods ; Specimen Handling/methods ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {The analysis of prey DNA in faeces is a non-invasive approach to examine the diet of birds. However, it is poorly known how gut transition time, environmental factors and laboratory treatments such as storage conditions or DNA extraction procedures affect the detection success of prey DNA. Here, we examined several of these factors using faeces from carrion crows fed with insect larvae. Faeces produced between 30 min and 4 h post-feeding tested positive for insect DNA, representing the gut transition time. Prey detection was not only possible in fresh but also in 5-day-old faeces. The type of surface the faeces were placed on for these 5 days, however, affected prey DNA detection success: samples placed on soil provided the lowest rate of positives compared to faeces left on leaves, on branches and within plastic tubes. Exposing faeces to sunlight and rain significantly lowered prey DNA detection rates (17% and 68% positives in exposed and protected samples, respectively). Storing faeces in ethanol or in the freezer did not affect molecular prey detection. Extracting DNA directly from larger pieces of faecal pellets resulted in significantly higher prey detection rates than when using small amounts of homogenized faeces. A cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide-based DNA extraction protocol yielded significantly higher DNA detection rates (60%) than three commercial kits, however, for small amounts of homogenized faeces only. Our results suggest that collecting faeces from smooth, clean and non-absorbing surfaces, protected from sunlight and rain, improves DNA detection success in avian faeces.}, }
@article {pmid21672068, year = {2011}, author = {Li, MH and Merilä, J}, title = {Population differences in levels of linkage disequilibrium in the wild.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {20}, number = {14}, pages = {2916-2928}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2011.05154.x}, pmid = {21672068}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; Finland ; *Genetic Variation ; *Genetics, Population ; Genotyping Techniques ; Geography ; *Linkage Disequilibrium ; Microsatellite Repeats ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Information about the levels of linkage disequilibrium (LD) in wild animal populations is still limited, and this is true particularly with respect to possible interpopulation variation in the levels of LD. We compared the levels and extent of LD at the genome-wide scale in three Siberian jay (Perisoreus infaustus) populations, two of which (Kuusamo and Ylläs) represented outbred populations within the main distribution area of the species, whereas the third (Suupohja) was a semi-isolated, partially inbred population at the margin of the species' distribution area. Although extensive long-range LD (>20 cM) was observed in all three populations, LD generally decayed to background levels at a distance of 1-5 cM or c. 200-600 kb. The degree and extent of LD differed markedly between populations but aligned closely with both observed levels of within-population genetic variation and expectations based on population history. The levels of LD were highest in the most inbred population with strong population substructure (Suupohja), compared with the two outbred populations. Furthermore, the decay of LD with increasing distance was slower in Suupohja, compared with the other two populations. By demonstrating that levels of LD can vary greatly over relatively short geographical distances within a species, these results suggest that prospects for association mapping differ from population to population. In this example, the prospects are best in the Suupohja population, given that minimized marker genotyping and a minimum marker spacing of 1-5 cM (c. 200-600 kb) would be sufficient for a whole genome scan for detecting QTL.}, }
@article {pmid21666803, year = {2011}, author = {Lewis, JE and Degusta, D and Meyer, MR and Monge, JM and Mann, AE and Holloway, RL}, title = {The mismeasure of science: Stephen Jay Gould versus Samuel George Morton on skulls and bias.}, journal = {PLoS biology}, volume = {9}, number = {6}, pages = {e1001071}, pmid = {21666803}, issn = {1545-7885}, mesh = {*Bias ; Humans ; *Science ; Skull/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, }
@article {pmid21649816, year = {2011}, author = {Cordero, A and Leon-Dorantes, G and Pons-Guiraud, A and Di Pietro, A and Asensi, SV and Walkiewicz-Cyraska, B and Litvik, R and Turlier, V and Mery, S and Merial-Kieny, C}, title = {Retinaldehyde/hyaluronic acid fragments: a synergistic association for the management of skin aging.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {110-117}, doi = {10.1111/j.1473-2165.2011.00552.x}, pmid = {21649816}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Administration, Topical ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Drug Combinations ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Patient Satisfaction ; Retinaldehyde/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Viscosupplements/*therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Retinaldehyde (RAL) was proven effective in treating photodamaged skin. Topical treatments with specific intermediate-size hyaluronate fragments (HAFi, 50-400 kDa) have been shown to stimulate keratinocytes proliferation and epidermal hyperplasia. The aim of this open, multicentric, international study was to assess the efficacy of the combination RAL-HAFi in the correction of skin photoaging.<br><br>PATIENTS/METHODS: Either RAL 0.05%-HAFi 0.5% (Eluage&#xae; cream; group 1) or RAL 0.05%-HAFi 1% (Eluage&#xae; antiwrinkle concentrate; group 2) or both products (group 3) were applied daily to the 1462 subjects during 90 days. Overall photoaging severity was evaluated in the three groups by the dermatologists at D0, D30, and D90 based on the Larnier's scale. Wrinkles and/or furrows and clinical signs of aging were evaluated using a 4-point scale. The skin microrelief of the crow's feet, evaluated by optical profilometry, was performed in subjects from group 3.<br><br>RESULTS: The 3-month application significantly improved overall photoaging through decrease of the Larnier's score in the three groups (P<0.001). At D90, significant improvement of wrinkles was shown in groups 2 and 3 [forehead wrinkles (-19% and -10%, respectively, P<0.001), nasolabial folds (-20% and -16%, P<0.001), crow's feet (-27% in the two groups, P<0.001), and perioral wrinkles (-34% and -23%, P<0.001)]. Clinical signs of photoaging on the entire face improved significantly in groups 1 and 3 [elasticity (-32% and -33%, respectively, P<0.001), hyperpigmentation (-34% and -31%, P<0.001), and ptosis (-18% and -22%; P<0.001)]. Results were confirmed using an optical profilometry technique. Products were very well tolerated.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This clinical study showed the efficacy and value of the RAL-HAFi combination in the management of aging skin in a large cohort of patients.}, }
@article {pmid21645913, year = {2012}, author = {Molina-López, R and Cabezón, O and Pabón, M and Darwich, L and Obón, E and Lopez-Gatius, F and Dubey, JP and Almería, S}, title = {High seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in the Common raven (Corvus corax) in the Northeast of Spain.}, journal = {Research in veterinary science}, volume = {93}, number = {1}, pages = {300-302}, doi = {10.1016/j.rvsc.2011.05.011}, pmid = {21645913}, issn = {1532-2661}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/parasitology ; Antibodies, Protozoan/blood ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology ; Coccidiosis/epidemiology/parasitology/*veterinary ; Crows/*parasitology ; Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect/veterinary ; *Neospora ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; Spain/epidemiology ; *Toxoplasma ; Toxoplasmosis, Animal/epidemiology/*parasitology ; }, abstract = {In recent years, multiple cases of aggressive behavior of Common ravens (Corvus corax) have been reported by farmers in Catalonia (NE Spain), including attacking of newborn animals and consumption of dead foetuses. In the present study, seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum was determined from 113 legally trapped and released Common ravens. T. gondii antibodies were found in 91 (80.5%; CI 95%:72-87) of 113 sera tested by the modified agglutination test. Antibodies to N. caninum were found in 24 (35.8%; IC 95%: 24.5-48.5) of 67 Common ravens tested by an indirect fluorescence antibody test with titers ranging from 1:50 (n=18) to ≥1:100 (n=6). To the author's knowledge, this is the first report of the presence of T. gondii and N. caninum antibodies in C. corax. The seroprevalence detected is one of the highest reported worldwide in wild birds, suggesting an important role for this species in the epidemiology of both parasites.}, }
@article {pmid21645286, year = {2011}, author = {Biswas, PK and Rahman, MH and Das, A and Ahmed, SS and Giasuddin, M and Christensen, JP}, title = {Risk for highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus infection in chickens in small-scale commercial farms, in a high-risk area, Bangladesh, 2008.}, journal = {Transboundary and emerging diseases}, volume = {58}, number = {6}, pages = {519-525}, doi = {10.1111/j.1865-1682.2011.01235.x}, pmid = {21645286}, issn = {1865-1682}, mesh = {Agriculture ; Animals ; Bangladesh/epidemiology ; *Chickens ; *Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype ; Influenza in Birds/epidemiology/*virology ; Odds Ratio ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {Small-scale commercial chicken farms (FAO-defined system 3) with poor biosecurity predominate in developing countries including Bangladesh. By enroling fifteen highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) cases occurring in such farms - (February - April 2008) and 45 control farms (March-May 2008) with similar set up, we conducted a case-control study to evaluate the risk factors associated with HPAI H5N1 virus infections in chickens reared in small-scale commercial farms in a spatially high-risk area in Bangladesh. Data collected by a questionnaire from the selected farms were analysed by univariable analysis and multivariable conditional logistic regression. The risk factors independently associated were 'dead crow seen at or near farm' [odds ratio (OR) 47.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.7-480.3, P = 0.001], 'exchanging eggtrays with market vendors' (OR 20.4, 95% CI 1.9-225.5, P = 0.014) and 'mortality seen in backyard chicken reared nearby' (OR 19.4, 95% CI 2.8-131.9, P = 0.002). These observations suggest that improved biosecurity might reduce the occurrence of HPAI outbreaks in small-scale commercial farms in Bangladesh.}, }
@article {pmid21641000, year = {2011}, author = {McBride-Chang, C and Chung, KK and Tong, X}, title = {Copying skills in relation to word reading and writing in Chinese children with and without dyslexia.}, journal = {Journal of experimental child psychology}, volume = {110}, number = {3}, pages = {422-433}, doi = {10.1016/j.jecp.2011.04.014}, pmid = {21641000}, issn = {1096-0457}, mesh = {Asian People/psychology ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; *Child Language ; China ; Dyslexia/*psychology ; Female ; *Form Perception ; Humans ; Male ; *Motor Skills ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Reading ; *Writing ; }, abstract = {Because Chinese character learning typically relies heavily on rote character copying, we tested independent copying skill in third- and fourth-grade Chinese children with and without dyslexia. In total, 21 Chinese third and fourth graders with dyslexia and 33 without dyslexia (matched on age, nonverbal IQ, and mother's education level) were given tasks of copying unfamiliar print in Vietnamese, Korean, and Hebrew as well as tests of word reading and writing, morphological awareness, rapid automatized naming (RAN), and orthographic processing. All three copying tasks distinguished dyslexic children from nondyslexic children with moderate effect sizes (.67-.80). Zero-order correlations of the three copying tasks with dictation and reading ranged from .37 to .58. With age, Raven's, group status, RAN, morphological awareness, and orthographic measures statistically controlled, the copying tasks uniquely explained 6% and 3% variance in word reading and dictation, respectively. Results suggest that copying skill itself may be useful in understanding the development and impairment of literacy skills in Chinese.}, }
@article {pmid21639668, year = {2011}, author = {van der Vaart, E and Verbrugge, R and Hemelrijk, CK}, title = {Corvid caching: Insights from a cognitive model.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Animal behavior processes}, volume = {37}, number = {3}, pages = {330-340}, doi = {10.1037/a0022988}, pmid = {21639668}, issn = {1939-2184}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; *Crows ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; *Models, Psychological ; }, abstract = {Caching and recovery of food by corvids is well-studied, but some ambiguous results remain. To help clarify these, we built a computational cognitive model. It is inspired by similar models built for humans, and it assumes that memory strength depends on frequency and recency of use. We compared our model's behavior to that of real birds in previously published experiments. Our model successfully replicated the outcomes of two experiments on recovery behavior and two experiments on cache site choice. Our "virtual birds" reproduced declines in recovery accuracy across sessions, revisits to previously emptied cache sites, a lack of correlation between caching and recovery order, and a preference for caching in safe locations. The model also produced two new explanations. First, that Clark's nutcrackers may become less accurate as recovery progresses not because of differential memory for different cache sites, as was once assumed, but because of chance effects. And second, that Western scrub jays may choose their cache sites not on the basis of negative recovery experiences only, as was previously thought, but on the basis of positive recovery experiences instead. Alternatively, both "punishment" and "reward" may be playing a role. We conclude with a set of new insights, a testable prediction, and directions for future work.}, }
@article {pmid21635617, year = {2011}, author = {Jun, ZZ and Zhong, LW and Yan, WX and Xia, TL and Mei, AH and Jun, YY}, title = {Treatment of crow's feet while performing a rhytidectomy.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {37}, number = {7}, pages = {1028-1031}, doi = {10.1111/j.1524-4725.2011.01998.x}, pmid = {21635617}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Eye ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; }, }
@article {pmid21631967, year = {2011}, author = {Schuster, RC and Wein, EE and Dickson, C and Chan, HM}, title = {Importance of traditional foods for the food security of two First Nations communities in the Yukon, Canada.}, journal = {International journal of circumpolar health}, volume = {70}, number = {3}, pages = {286-300}, doi = {10.3402/ijch.v70i3.17833}, pmid = {21631967}, issn = {2242-3982}, support = {//Cancer Research UK/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Arctic Regions ; Canada ; *Diet ; Female ; *Food Supply ; Humans ; Interviews as Topic ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Population Groups ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study sought to evaluate food consumption patterns in the context of food security in two Yukon First Nations communities.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: Twenty-nine members of Vuntut Gwitchin households in Old Crow and 33 members of Tlingit households in Teslin participated in individual interviews.<br><br>METHODS: Food frequency questionnaires were used to quantify traditional food consumption throughout the spring 2007 and winter 2008 and to identify potential temporal trends through a comparison with data from the early 1990s. Additional questions, including the Health Canada Household Food Security Survey Module, sought to assess food security concerns in each community.<br><br>RESULTS: Overall frequency of traditional food consumption did not change in either community from the 2 time-point analyses. There was, however, a difference in frequency of consumption of certain groups of foods, and this highlighted the degree to which environmental variability affects the availability of foods.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The importance of traditional foods in the diet of Yukon First Nations has not changed over the past 15 years. However, limited availability of food species, access to harvesting equipment and decrease in available time to go out on the land to harvest are food security challenges facing households today.}, }
@article {pmid21614521, year = {2011}, author = {Lee, WY and Lee, SI and Choe, JC and Jablonski, PG}, title = {Wild birds recognize individual humans: experiments on magpies, Pica pica.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {14}, number = {6}, pages = {817-825}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-011-0415-4}, pmid = {21614521}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/psychology ; Cognition ; Discrimination, Psychological ; Humans ; *Passeriformes ; *Recognition, Psychology ; }, abstract = {The ability to distinguish among heterospecific individuals has been reported in only a few animal species. Humans can be viewed as a special type of heterospecifics because individuals differ widely in behavior, ranging from non-threatening to very threatening toward animals. In this study, we asked whether wild magpies can recognize individual humans who had accessed their nests. We compared the behavior of breeding pairs toward individual humans before and after the humans climbed up to the birds' nests, and also toward climbers and non-climbers. We have evidence for (i) aggressive responses of the magpie pairs toward humans who had repeatedly accessed their nests (climbers) and a lack of response to humans who had not accessed the nest (non-climbers); (ii) a total lack of scolding responses toward climbers by magpie pairs whose nests had not been accessed; (iii) a selective aggressive response to the climber when a climber and a non-climber were presented simultaneously. Taken together, these results suggest that wild magpies can distinguish individual humans that pose a threat to their nests from humans that have not behaved in a threatening way. The magpie is only the third avian species, along with crows and mockingbirds, in which recognition of individual humans has been documented in the wild. Here, we propose a new hypothesis (adopted from psychology) that frequent previous exposure to humans in urban habitats contributes to the ability of birds to discriminate among human individuals. This mechanism, along with high cognitive abilities, may predispose some species to learn to discriminate among human individuals. Experimental tests of these two mechanisms are proposed.}, }
@article {pmid21608061, year = {2011}, author = {Lavasani, NM and Stagnitti, K}, title = {A study on fine motor skills of Iranian children with attention deficit/hyper activity disorder aged from 6 to 11 years.}, journal = {Occupational therapy international}, volume = {18}, number = {2}, pages = {106-114}, doi = {10.1002/oti.306}, pmid = {21608061}, issn = {1557-0703}, mesh = {Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/complications/*physiopathology ; Child ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Iran ; Male ; *Motor Skills ; Motor Skills Disorders/complications/*diagnosis ; Reference Values ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to compare the fine motor skills of two groups of Iranian children. Of the 55 male Tehranian children aged 6 to 10 years, 29 children were typically developing and 26 were identified as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder. All children were assessed using the Raven Intelligence Test and nine fine motor tasks. There were no significant differences between the groups based on intelligence. In eight of the fine motor tasks, there was a significant difference between the groups. These tasks were cutting, placing dots in a grid pattern without direction, threading beads, drawing a line within 1 and 2 minutes, finger movements and Purdue pegboard. Boys who have been identified as ADHD have poorer fine motor skills compared to typically developing boys of the same age. Children aged 6 to 10 years who have been identified as ADHD will require more attention to their fine motor skill performance to enable greater participation in daily living tasks in Tehran such as writing, fine arts and dressing which require fast and quick hand motor skills. There are still limitations in this area; therefore, research in fine motor skills and ADHD children are recommended for future research.}, }
@article {pmid21605220, year = {2011}, author = {Canestrari, D and Marcos, JM and Baglione, V}, title = {Helpers at the nest compensate for reduced maternal investment in egg size in carrion crows.}, journal = {Journal of evolutionary biology}, volume = {24}, number = {9}, pages = {1870-1878}, doi = {10.1111/j.1420-9101.2011.02313.x}, pmid = {21605220}, issn = {1420-9101}, mesh = {Animals ; Body Weight ; *Clutch Size ; *Cooperative Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; *Nesting Behavior ; Ovum/*growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {Life history theory predicts that mothers should trade off current and future reproductive attempts to maximize lifetime fitness. When breeding conditions are favourable, mothers may either increase investment in the eggs to improve the quality of the offspring or save resources for future reproduction as the good raising environment is likely to compensate for a 'bad start'. In cooperatively breeding birds, the presence of helpers improves breeding conditions so that mothers may vary the number, size and quality of the eggs in response to the composition of the group. Here, we show that in cooperatively breeding carrion crows Corvus corone corone, where nonbreeding males are more philopatric and more helpful at the nest than females, breeding females decreased egg size as the number of subordinate males in the group increased. However, despite the smaller investment in egg size, fledglings' weight increased in groups with more male subordinates, improving post-fledging survival and indicating that helpers fully compensated for the initial 'bad start'. These results highlight a 'hidden effect' of helpers that bears profound implications for understanding the ultimate function of helping.}, }
@article {pmid21604851, year = {2011}, author = {Schloegl, C}, title = {What you see is what you get--reloaded: can jackdaws (Corvus monedula) find hidden food through exclusion?.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {125}, number = {2}, pages = {162-174}, doi = {10.1037/a0023045}, pmid = {21604851}, issn = {1939-2087}, mesh = {Animals ; *Appetitive Behavior ; *Choice Behavior ; *Crows ; Female ; Male ; *Memory, Short-Term ; *Orientation ; *Problem Solving ; Species Specificity ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Choice by exclusion, that is, the ability to base the choice of a target on the rejection of potential alternatives, is becoming increasingly interesting for comparative cognition research. Recently, ravens have been shown to solve an exclusion task and it had been suggested that this ability might benefit ravens in a food-caching context. To investigate this possibility, the raven study was replicated with a closely related, but noncaching, species, the jackdaw (Corvus monedula). In the first test, the birds had to find food hidden in one of two differently shaped tubes. The results suggest that the jackdaws found the food through intensive search behavior, with little evidence for exclusion abilities. In a follow-up experiment, the tubes were replaced by cups, and before the birds made a choice, one of the cups was lifted to inform them about its content. In a final task, this procedure was modified to control for the influence of local enhancement. In both experiments, the jackdaws were successful only if they had seen the food before. These findings are in contrast to the previous results on ravens and support the idea that exclusion abilities may have evolved as specific adaptations to food caching.}, }
@article {pmid21594161, year = {2011}, author = {Crottini, A and Glaw, F and Casiraghi, M and Jenkins, RK and Mercurio, V and Randrianantoandro, C and Randrianirina, JE and Andreone, F}, title = {A new Gephyromantis (Phylacomantis) frog species from the pinnacle karst of Bemaraha, western Madagascar.}, journal = {ZooKeys}, volume = {}, number = {81}, pages = {51-71}, pmid = {21594161}, issn = {1313-2970}, abstract = {We describe a new mantellid frog of the subfamily Mantellinae from the karstic Bemaraha Plateau, western Madagascar. The new species belongs to the genus Gephyromantis, subgenus Phylacomantis, which previously included Gephyromantis azzurrae, Gephyromantis corvus and Gephyromantis pseudoasper. Gephyromantis atsingysp. n. has a snout-vent length of 35-43 mm and is a scansorial frog living among the Tsingy de Bemaraha pinnacles and inside the caves present in the area. A morphological analysis and biomolecular comparison revealed the degree of differentiation between these four species of the Phylacomantis subgenus.The new species seems to be endemic to Tsingy de Bemaraha.}, }
@article {pmid21586266, year = {2011}, author = {Valiakos, G and Touloudi, A and Iacovakis, C and Athanasiou, L and Birtsas, P and Spyrou, V and Billinis, C}, title = {Molecular detection and phylogenetic analysis of West Nile virus lineage 2 in sedentary wild birds (Eurasian magpie), Greece, 2010.}, journal = {Euro surveillance : bulletin Europeen sur les maladies transmissibles = European communicable disease bulletin}, volume = {16}, number = {18}, pages = {}, pmid = {21586266}, issn = {1560-7917}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; *Birds/virology ; *Disease Vectors ; Greece ; *Phylogeny ; West Nile Fever/*virology ; West Nile virus/*classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {A West Nile virus (WNV) lineage 2 strain was molecularly identified and characterised in a Eurasian magpie hunted in Greece in 2010, during a WNV outbreak in humans. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the highest sequence similarity (>99%) with other WNV lineage 2 strains derived from birds of prey in Austria and Hungary (2004–2009). This first molecular detection of WNV in sedentary wild birds in Greece, which are possible reservoirs of the virus, is a public health concern.}, }
@article {pmid21572674, year = {2011}, author = {Wollina, U}, title = {Treatment of facial skin laxity by a new monopolar radiofrequency device.}, journal = {Journal of cutaneous and aesthetic surgery}, volume = {4}, number = {1}, pages = {7-11}, pmid = {21572674}, issn = {0974-5157}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acquired facial skin laxity seems to be a result of the combination of intrinsic and extrinsic processes. For treatment of facial ageing, non-invasive procedures have become popular.<br><br>AIM: We wanted to investigate the effect of a new 2.2-MHz radiofrequency (RF) device on acquired facial skin laxity.<br><br>SETTING: Outpatient clinic associated with an academic teaching hospital.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed an open trial with the RF-ReFacing&#x2122; device (Meyer-Haake Medical Innovations, Wehrheim/ Germany) in the monopolar mode with a power of 8-12 W, two passes per session and repetition three times after 2 weeks without treatment.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 20 Caucasian female patients were included (age range, 34-73 years). The procedure was performed without any analgesia. We did not see any adverse effect. The procedure was scored as most convenient or convenient by all patients. Improvement in skin laxity and fine wrinkles was seen after the second treatment in 19 of the 20 patients and after the third treatment in 100% of the patients. On a scale from 0 to 3, improvement in the lower lid, Crow's feet and jowl line was scored 2.6&#xb1;0.7 by the patients; improvement in the overall appearance of the face was scored 2.3&#xb1;0.5. Blinded assessment of the photographs rated the improvement as good or better in 15 of the 20 patients, moderate in 3 patients, no change in 1 patient.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: RF-ReFacing&#x2122; treatment was effective in improvement in skin laxity. Patients' satisfaction was high. Although RF-ReFacing&#x2122; treatment cannot substitute surgical procedure, it might prolong the time to the first surgical facial lift. The number of patients treated was small, and no quantitative measurements or histopathology was performed. Hence further studies with greater number of patients are necessary.}, }
@article {pmid21570985, year = {2011}, author = {Grasman, J and Salomons, HM and Verhulst, S}, title = {Stochastic modeling of length-dependent telomere shortening in Corvus monedula.}, journal = {Journal of theoretical biology}, volume = {282}, number = {1}, pages = {1-6}, doi = {10.1016/j.jtbi.2011.04.026}, pmid = {21570985}, issn = {1095-8541}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*genetics ; DNA Damage ; Oxidative Stress ; Poisson Distribution ; *Stochastic Processes ; *Telomere ; }, abstract = {It was recently shown that, within individuals, longer telomeres shorten at a higher rate. This explorative study deals with a mathematical model of this process. It is a nonlinear differential equation describing length-dependent decrease that can be linked to a Poisson process. The model also takes in account telomere shortening due to the end replication problem. Parameters are fitted using data from samples of red blood cells of free-living juvenile corvids. The Poisson process can be related to oxidative stress causing DNA strand breaks. The shortest telomeres in a genome are the best predictors of survival, and one can therefore hypothesize on functional grounds that short telomeres should be better protected by some control mechanism in the cellular system. However, the present study shows that such a mechanism is not required to explain length-dependent telomere shortening: agents of telomere shortening such as oxidative stress with a certain strength modeled by a Poisson process with an appropriately chosen parameter suffice to generate the observed pattern.}, }
@article {pmid21560509, year = {2010}, author = {Gullickson, A}, title = {Racial boundary formation at the dawn of Jim Crow: the determinants and effects of black/mulatto occupational differences in the United States, 1880.}, journal = {AJS; American journal of sociology}, volume = {116}, number = {1}, pages = {187-231}, doi = {10.1086/652136}, pmid = {21560509}, issn = {0002-9602}, mesh = {*Black or African American ; History, 19th Century ; Humans ; Occupations/*history ; *Prejudice ; Race Relations/*history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; United States ; White People ; }, abstract = {This article examines variation in the social position of mixed-race populations by exploiting county-level variation in the degree of occupational differentiation between blacks and mulattoes in the 1880 U.S. census. The role of the mixed-race category as either a "buffer class" or a status threat depended on the class composition of whites. Black/mulatto occupational differentiation was greatest where whites had high occupational prestige and thus little to fear from a mulatto group. Furthermore, differentiation increased the risk of lynching where whites had relatively low status and decreased the risk of lynching where whites had relatively high status.}, }
@article {pmid21557938, year = {2011}, author = {Qi, M and Wang, R and Ning, C and Li, X and Zhang, L and Jian, F and Sun, Y and Xiao, L}, title = {Cryptosporidium spp. in pet birds: genetic diversity and potential public health significance.}, journal = {Experimental parasitology}, volume = {128}, number = {4}, pages = {336-340}, doi = {10.1016/j.exppara.2011.04.003}, pmid = {21557938}, issn = {1090-2449}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology/transmission ; Birds ; China/epidemiology ; Cryptosporidiosis/epidemiology/parasitology/transmission/*veterinary ; Cryptosporidium/*classification/*genetics ; DNA, Protozoan/chemistry ; Feces/parasitology ; *Genetic Variation ; Genotype ; Humans ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Oocysts/ultrastructure ; Pets ; Phylogeny ; Prevalence ; RNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; Sequence Alignment ; Zoonoses/parasitology/transmission ; }, abstract = {To characterize the prevalence and assess the zoonotic transmission burden of Cryptosporidium species/genotypes in pet birds in Henan, China, 434 fecal samples were acquired from 14 families of birds in pet shops. The overall prevalence of Cryptopsoridium was 8.1% (35/434) by the Sheather's sugar flotation technique. The Cryptosporidium-positive samples were analyzed by DNA sequence analysis of the small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene. Three Cryptosporidium species and two genotypes were identified, including C. baileyi (18/35 or 51.4%) in five red-billed leiothrixes (Leiothrix lutea), four white Java sparrows (Padda oryzivora), four common mynas (Acridotheres tristis), two zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata), a crested Lark (Galerida cristata), a Gouldian finch (Chloebia gouldiae), and a black-billed magpie (Pica pica); Cryptosporidium meleagridis (3/35 or 8.6%) in a Bohemian waxwing (Bombycilla garrulus), a Rufous turtle dove (Streptopelia orientalis), and a fan-tailed pigeon (Columba livia); Cryptosporidium galli (5/35 or 14.3%) in four Bohemian waxwings (Bombycilla garrulus) and a silver-eared Mesia (Leiothrix argentauris); Cryptosporidium avian genotype III (3/35 or 8.6%) in two cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) and a red-billed blue magpie (Urocissa erythrorhyncha); and Cryptosporidium avian genotype V (6/35 or 17.1%) in six cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus). Among the pet birds, 12 species represented new hosts for Cryptosporidum infections. The presence of C. meleagridis raises questions on potential zoonotic transmission of cryptosporidiosis from pet birds to humans.}, }
@article {pmid21557387, year = {2012}, author = {Langer, N and Pedroni, A and Gianotti, LR and Hänggi, J and Knoch, D and Jäncke, L}, title = {Functional brain network efficiency predicts intelligence.}, journal = {Human brain mapping}, volume = {33}, number = {6}, pages = {1393-1406}, pmid = {21557387}, issn = {1097-0193}, mesh = {Adult ; Brain/*physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Electroencephalography ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Models, Neurological ; Nerve Net/*physiology ; Predictive Value of Tests ; }, abstract = {The neuronal causes of individual differences in mental abilities such as intelligence are complex and profoundly important. Understanding these abilities has the potential to facilitate their enhancement. The purpose of this study was to identify the functional brain network characteristics and their relation to psychometric intelligence. In particular, we examined whether the functional network exhibits efficient small-world network attributes (high clustering and short path length) and whether these small-world network parameters are associated with intellectual performance. High-density resting state electroencephalography (EEG) was recorded in 74 healthy subjects to analyze graph-theoretical functional network characteristics at an intracortical level. Ravens advanced progressive matrices were used to assess intelligence. We found that the clustering coefficient and path length of the functional network are strongly related to intelligence. Thus, the more intelligent the subjects are the more the functional brain network resembles a small-world network. We further identified the parietal cortex as a main hub of this resting state network as indicated by increased degree centrality that is associated with higher intelligence. Taken together, this is the first study that substantiates the neural efficiency hypothesis as well as the Parieto-Frontal Integration Theory (P-FIT) of intelligence in the context of functional brain network characteristics. These theories are currently the most established intelligence theories in neuroscience. Our findings revealed robust evidence of an efficiently organized resting state functional brain network for highly productive cognitions.}, }
@article {pmid21554777, year = {2011}, author = {Hu, XS}, title = {Mating system and the critical migration rate for swamping selection.}, journal = {Genetics research}, volume = {93}, number = {3}, pages = {233-254}, doi = {10.1017/S0016672311000127}, pmid = {21554777}, issn = {1469-5073}, mesh = {Cell Nucleus/*genetics ; Computer Simulation ; Crosses, Genetic ; Cytoplasm/physiology ; Fertilization/*genetics ; *Genetics, Population ; Linkage Disequilibrium ; Models, Genetic ; Models, Theoretical ; Plants/*genetics ; Pollen/*genetics ; Seeds/*genetics ; Selection, Genetic/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Crow et al. (1990) and Barton (1992) have examined the critical migration rate for swamping selection in the nuclear system. Here, I use the same methodology to examine the critical migration rate in the cytonuclear system for hermaphrodite plants with a mixed mating system. Two selection schemes for a nuclear gene (heterozygote disadvantage and directional selection) and the directional selection scheme for organelle genes are considered. Results show that under random mating, the previous results are applicable to plant species by appropriate re-parameterization of the migration rate for nuclear and paternal organelle genes. A simple complementary relationship exists between seed and pollen flow in contributing to the critical migration rate. Under the mixed mating system, the critical migration rate of seeds and pollen for nuclear and paternal organelle genes can be changed due to the effects of selection and the cytonuclear linkage disequilibrium generated by migration and inbreeding. A negative but not complementary relationship exists between seed and pollen flow in contributing to the critical migration rate, varying with the mating system. Partial selfing can also adjust the critical seed flow for the maternal organelle gene, with a small critical migration rate for species of a high selfing rate. Both concordance and discordance among cytonuclear genes can occur under certain conditions during the process of swamping selection. This theory predicts the presence of various contributions of seed versus pollen flow to genetic swamping for plants with diverse mating systems.}, }
@article {pmid21550932, year = {2011}, author = {Mampel, A and Echeverría, MI and Vargas, AL and Roque, M}, title = {[Numeric alterations in the dys gene and their association with clinical features].}, journal = {Medicina}, volume = {71}, number = {2}, pages = {151-157}, pmid = {21550932}, issn = {0025-7680}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Dystrophin/*genetics/metabolism ; Female ; *Gene Deletion ; Gene Frequency ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Muscular Dystrophy, Duchenne/diagnosis/*genetics ; Nucleic Acid Amplification Techniques/*methods ; Phenotype ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; }, abstract = {The Duchenne/Becker muscular dystrophy is a hereditary miopathy with a recessive sex-linked pattern. The related gene is called DYS and the coded protein plays a crucial role in the anchorage between the cytoskeleton and the cellular membrane in muscle cells. Different clinical manifestations are observed depending on the impact of the genetic alteration on the protein. The global register of mutations reveals an enhanced frequency for deletions/duplications of one or more exons affecting the DYS gene. In the present work, numeric alterations have been studied in the 79 exons of the DYS gene. The study has been performed on 59 individuals, including 31 independent cases and 28 cases with a familial link. The applied methodology was Multiplex Ligation Dependent Probe Amplification (MLPA). In the 31 independent cases clinical data were established: i.e. the clinical score, the Raven test percentiles, and the creatininphosphokinase (CPK) blood values. Our results reveal a 61.3% frequency of numeric alterations affecting the DYS gene in our population, provoking all of them a reading frame shift. The rate for de novo mutations was identified as 35.2%. Alterations involving a specific region of one exon were observed with high frequency, affecting a specific region. A significant association was found between numeric alterations and a low percentile for the Raven test. These data contribute to the local knowledge of genetic alterations and their phenotypic impact for the Duchenne/Becker disease.}, }
@article {pmid21550731, year = {2011}, author = {Savini, G and Monaco, F and Terregino, C and Di Gennaro, A and Bano, L and Pinoni, C and De Nardi, R and Bonilauri, P and Pecorari, M and Di Gialleonardo, L and Bonfanti, L and Polci, A and Calistri, P and Lelli, R}, title = {Usutu virus in Italy: an emergence or a silent infection?.}, journal = {Veterinary microbiology}, volume = {151}, number = {3-4}, pages = {264-274}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2011.03.036}, pmid = {21550731}, issn = {1873-2542}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/*virology ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Chickens/virology ; Culex/*virology ; Flavivirus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Flavivirus Infections/*epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; Genome, Viral ; Geography ; Horses/*virology ; Italy/epidemiology ; Passeriformes/*virology ; RNA, Viral/genetics ; Sentinel Surveillance/veterinary ; Sequence Analysis, RNA ; }, abstract = {A two year study (2008-2009) was carried out to monitor the Usutu virus (USUV) circulation in Italy. Sentinel horses and chickens, wild birds and mosquitoes were sampled and tested for the presence of USUV and USUV antibodies within the WND National Surveillance plan. Seroconversion evidenced in sentinel animals proved that in these two years the virus has circulated in Tuscany, Emilia Romagna, Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions. In Veneto USUV caused a severe blackbird die-off disease involving at least a thousand birds. Eleven viral strains were detected in organs of 9 blackbirds (52.9%) and two magpies (0.5%) originating from Veneto and Emilia Romagna regions. USUV was also detected in a pool of Culex pipiens caught in Tuscany. According to the alignment of the NS5 partial sequences, no differences between the Italian USUV strains isolated from Veneto, Friuli and Emilia Romagna regions were observed. The Italian North Eastern strain sequences were identical to those of the strain detected in the brain of a human patient and shared a high similarity with the isolates from Vienna and Budapest. Conversely, there were few differences between the Italian strains which circulated in the North Eastern regions and the USUV strain detected in a pool of C. pipiens caught in Tuscany. A high degree of similarity at both nucleotide and amino acid level was also found when the full genome sequence of the Italian North Eastern isolate was compared with that of the strains circulating in Europe. The North Eastern Italian strain sequence exhibited 97% identity to the South African reference strain SAAR-1776. The deduced amino acid sequences of the Italian strain differed by 10 and 11 amino-acids from the Budapest and Vienna strains, respectively, and by 28 from the SAAR-1776 strain. According to this study two strains of USUVs are likely to have circulated in Italy between 2008 and 2009. They have developed strategies of adaptation and evolution to spread into new areas and to become established.}, }
@article {pmid21538135, year = {2011}, author = {Clary, D and Kelly, DM}, title = {Cache protection strategies of a non-social food-caching corvid, Clark's nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {14}, number = {5}, pages = {735-744}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-011-0408-3}, pmid = {21538135}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; *Food ; Male ; *Passeriformes ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana), a non-social corvid, cache much of their food in order to survive periods of resource uncertainty. These caches are at risk as they are subject to pilferage from other animals including conspecifics. Potentially, nutcrackers can ensure the safety of these caches by keeping track of whether they have been observed making a cache and subsequently engage in cache protection strategies-strategies that have been shown by other members of the corvid family (e.g., scrub-jays and ravens). Behaviors including creating more caches, eating a higher proportion of seeds, and re-caching existing compromised sites have been shown in laboratory settings with social corvids and have provided preliminary evidence of the complex cognitive abilities of corvids. In the present study, Clark's nutcrackers are shown to engage in similar cache protection behaviors when observed by a conspecific. Furthermore, we show that these behaviors are a result of social, rather than associative, cues.}, }
@article {pmid21535102, year = {2012}, author = {Moriya, S and Tei, K and Toyoshita, Y and Koshino, H and Inoue, N and Miura, H}, title = {Relationship between periodontal status and intellectual function among community-dwelling elderly persons.}, journal = {Gerodontology}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {e368-74}, doi = {10.1111/j.1741-2358.2011.00483.x}, pmid = {21535102}, issn = {1741-2358}, mesh = {Aged ; Alcohol Drinking ; Chronic Disease ; Dental Care ; Educational Status ; Executive Function/physiology ; Female ; Health Behavior ; Health Status ; Humans ; *Independent Living ; Intelligence/physiology ; Interpersonal Relations ; Japan ; Life Style ; Male ; Memory/physiology ; Mental Processes/*physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Oral Health ; Pattern Recognition, Visual/physiology ; *Periodontal Index ; Smoking ; Toothbrushing ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to indicate the relationship between periodontal status and intellectual function in the elderly.<br><br>BACKGROUND: Periodontal status has been shown to be related to demographic, socioeconomic, and psychological status. Intellectual function is a significant indicator of health status. Nevertheless, the relationship between periodontal status and intellectual function has not been elucidated in detail among the elderly.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 152 community-dwelling elderly persons, aged 70-74 years, were enrolled in the study. Periodontal status was evaluated using the WHO Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN). Intellectual function was assessed by four neuropsychological tests: Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test, the Verbal Paired Associates 1 (VerPA) task and the Visual Paired Associates 1 (VirPA) task, extracted from the Wechsler Memory Scale Revised Edition, and the Block Design subtest, extracted from the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scales, Third Edition. Correlations between CPITN and each test were examined using Spearman rank correlation coefficients. The ordinal regression model was constructed with CPITN as the dependent variable and neuropsychological test as the principal independent variable to adjust for demographic factors, general health, lifestyle and oral health behaviour.<br><br>RESULTS: Significant correlations were found between the RCPM test, the VerPA task, the Visual Paired Associates 1 and CPITN. In the ordinal regression model, CPITN was significantly related to measures of RCPM after adjusting for demographic factors, general health status, lifestyle and oral health behaviour.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Intellectual function is considered a significant indicator of periodontal status among community-dwelling elderly persons.}, }
@article {pmid21530162, year = {2011}, author = {Csorba, J and Radvanyi, K and Regenyi, E and Dinya, E}, title = {A study of behaviour profiles among intellectually disabled people in residential care in Hungary.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {32}, number = {5}, pages = {1757-1763}, doi = {10.1016/j.ridd.2011.03.003}, pmid = {21530162}, issn = {1873-3379}, mesh = {Adult ; Persons with Disabilities/*psychology/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; Humans ; Hungary/epidemiology ; Inpatients/psychology/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Intellectual Disability/epidemiology/*psychology ; Intelligence ; Male ; Mental Disorders/epidemiology/psychology ; Middle Aged ; Personality Inventory ; *Residential Facilities/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Self-Injurious Behavior/epidemiology/psychology ; Severity of Illness Index ; *Social Behavior ; *Stereotyped Behavior ; }, abstract = {The authors investigated the behavioural dimensions of 269 intellectually disabled (ID) people in residential care in specialized institutions in Tolna county (South-West Hungary) with the aim of screening the frequency and severity of the relevant behavioural symptoms associated with intellectual disability and depending on the level of intellectual impairment. Only 120 residents had an International Classification of Disease (ICD) diagnosis of "mental retardation (MR)" and a valid IQ grading either by means of the Hungarian standard version of the HAWIK or by the coloured Raven test. 4 IQ groups were created: borderline (B), mild (MID), moderate (MOD) and profound (PID) intellectual disability subgroups. The Hungarian pilot version of the Behaviour Problem Inventory (BPI) was used. seventy-two percent of the residents displayed behavioural problems. All scale score means exhibited an enhancing tendency with IQ loss, as both frequency and Seventy increased linearly towards the more severe groups, but significantly only in the category of stereotyped behaviour. The authors focussed on problems of patient recruitment and discussed the measurement of behavioural and other psychiatric symptoms when researchers reported on the increased occurrence of behaviour and psychiatric symptoms in ID populations.}, }
@article {pmid21520875, year = {2011}, author = {Wertz, H and Jahnke, L and Schneider, F and Polednik, M and Fleckenstein, J and Lohr, F and Wenz, F}, title = {A novel lateral disequilibrium inclusive (LDI) pencil-beam based dose calculation algorithm: evaluation in inhomogeneous phantoms and comparison with Monte Carlo calculations.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {38}, number = {3}, pages = {1627-1634}, doi = {10.1118/1.3557952}, pmid = {21520875}, issn = {0094-2405}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Humans ; *Monte Carlo Method ; *Phantoms, Imaging ; *Radiation Dosage ; Radiometry/*instrumentation ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; Software ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: Pencil-beam (PB) based dose calculation for treatment planning is limited by inaccuracies in regions of tissue inhomogeneities, particularly in situations with lateral electron disequilibrium as is present at tissue/lung interfaces. To overcome these limitations, a new "lateral disequilibrium inclusive" (LDI) PB based calculation algorithm was introduced. In this study, the authors evaluated the accuracy of the new model by film and ionization chamber measurements and Monte Carlo simulations.<br><br>METHODS: To validate the performance of the new LDI algorithm implemented in Corvus 09, eight test plans were generated on inhomogeneous thorax and pelvis phantoms. In addition, three plans were calculated with a simple effective path length (EPL) algorithm on the inhomogeneous thorax phantom. To simulate homogeneous tissues, four test plans were evaluated in homogeneous phantoms (homogeneous dose calculation).<br><br>RESULTS: The mean pixel pass rates and standard deviations of the gamma 4%/4 mm test for the film measurements were (96 +/- 3)% for the plans calculated with LDI, (70 +/- 5)% for the plans calculated with EPL, and (99 +/- 1)% for the homogeneous plans. Ionization chamber measurements and Monte Carlo simulations confirmed the high accuracy of the new algorithm (dose deviations < or = 4%; gamma 3%/3 mm > or = 96%).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: LDI represents an accurate and fast dose calculation algorithm for treatment planning.}, }
@article {pmid21518060, year = {2011}, author = {Webb, WC and Marzluff, JM and Omland, KE}, title = {Random interbreeding between cryptic lineages of the Common Raven: evidence for speciation in reverse.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {20}, number = {11}, pages = {2390-2402}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2011.05095.x}, pmid = {21518060}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Aging ; Animals ; Crows/*genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; Female ; *Genetic Speciation ; Geography ; *Inbreeding ; Male ; Models, Genetic ; Molecular Sequence Data ; *Phylogeny ; Principal Component Analysis ; Sample Size ; Survival Analysis ; United States ; }, abstract = {DNA sequence studies frequently reveal evidence of cryptic lineages in morphologically uniform species, many of which turn out to be evolutionarily distinct species. The Common Raven (Corvus corax) includes two deeply divergent mtDNA lineages: one lineage seems restricted to western North America and the other is Holarctic in distribution. These deep clades hint of the possibility of cryptic species in the western United States. We tested this hypothesis in a population consisting of an equal proportion of both mtDNA clades, by quantifying mating patterns and associated fitness consequences with respect to mtDNA. We also tested for morphological, behavioural and ecological correlates of sex and mtDNA clade membership. Mate pairings were random with respect to mtDNA clades, and there were no differences in reproductive success between assortatively and nonassortatively mated pairs. We found no differences in survival or resource use between clades. There were no differences in morphological or behavioural characters between mtDNA clades, except one clade trended towards greater mobility. These results suggest there are no barriers to gene flow between mtDNA clades and argue that the mtDNA clades have remerged in this population, likely due to a lack of ecological or signal differentiation between individuals in each lineage. Hence, in Common Ravens, phylogeographic structure in mtDNA is a reflection of likely past isolation rather than currently differentiated species.}, }
@article {pmid21503782, year = {2011}, author = {Prager, W and Wissmüller, E and Kollhorst, B and Böer, A and Zschocke, I}, title = {[Treatment of crow's feet with two different botulinum toxin type A preparations in split-face technique].}, journal = {Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift fur Dermatologie, Venerologie, und verwandte Gebiete}, volume = {62}, number = {5}, pages = {375-379}, pmid = {21503782}, issn = {1432-1173}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Dermatologic Agents/therapeutic use ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuromuscular Agents/therapeutic use ; Skin/*anatomy &amp; histology/*drug effects ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: For the first time, the effectiveness of Xeomin®, and Dysport® in an dose-ratio of 1:3 treating crow's feet (FWS 2-3) was evaluated in a double-blind randomized pilot study.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHOD: Xeomin&#xae; (12 units) was compared to Dysport&#xae; (36 units) in an intra-individual split-face technique in 22 patients over a period of 4 months. According to the facial-wrinkle-scale (FWS) patients were rated as responders with an improvement of at least 1 point in FWS.<br><br>RESULTS: One month after treatment significantly more than 80% of patients were rated as responders. The different products proved to be equivalent in response rate and effectiveness with no significant difference after 4 weeks and 4 months in statistical analysis. Surprisingly the decrease in FWS of crows' feet at rest was more pronounced.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The different botulinum toxin type A formulations proved to be equivalent in effectiveness and tolerability in a dose ratio of 1:3 (Xeomin&#xae;: Dysport&#xae;) The more pronounced decrease of crow's feet at rest points out the importance of muscle insertion into the skin for the cosmetic result in the periorbital region.}, }
@article {pmid21503645, year = {2011}, author = {Flouri, E and Panourgia, C}, title = {Adverse life events and emotional and behavioral problems in adolescence: the role of non-verbal cognitive ability and negative cognitive errors.}, journal = {Journal of abnormal child psychology}, volume = {39}, number = {5}, pages = {695-709}, pmid = {21503645}, issn = {1573-2835}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Affective Symptoms/etiology/*psychology ; Child Behavior Disorders/etiology/*psychology ; *Cognition ; Emotions ; Female ; Humans ; *Life Change Events ; Male ; Psychological Tests ; Verbal Behavior ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to test whether negative cognitive errors (overgeneralizing, catastrophizing, selective abstraction, and personalizing) mediate the moderator effect of non-verbal cognitive ability on the association between adverse life events (life stress) and emotional and behavioral problems in adolescence. The sample consisted of 430 children (aged 11-15 years) from three state secondary schools in disadvantaged areas in one county in the South East of England. Total difficulties (i.e., emotional symptoms, peer problems, hyperactivity, and conduct problems) were assessed with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Adjustment was made for gender, age, ethnicity, special educational needs, exclusion history, family structure, and family socio-economic disadvantage. Adverse life events were measured with Tiet et al.'s (Journal of the American Academy of Child &amp; Adolescent Psychiatry, 37, 1191-1200, 1998) Adverse Life Events Scale. Non-verbal cognitive ability was measured with Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices Plus. Non-verbal cognitive ability moderated the effect of adverse life events both on total difficulties and on emotional symptoms. Overgeneralizing mediated the moderator effect of non-verbal cognitive ability on the association between adverse life events and total difficulties. Adverse life events were related to a tendency to overgeneralize which was associated with emotional and behavioral problems, but particularly among those adolescents with lower non-verbal cognitive ability.}, }
@article {pmid21503637, year = {2011}, author = {Dabert, J and Mihalca, AD and Sándor, AD}, title = {The first report of Knemidocoptes intermedius Fain et Macfarlane, 1967 (Acari: Astigmata) in naturally infected European birds.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {109}, number = {1}, pages = {237-240}, pmid = {21503637}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology/pathology ; Crows/*parasitology ; Female ; Hindlimb/parasitology/pathology ; Host Specificity ; Mite Infestations/parasitology/pathology/*veterinary ; Mites/*classification/*pathogenicity ; Romania ; }, abstract = {According to the latest taxonomical review, the genus Knemidocoptes (Epidermoptidae: Knemidocoptinae) comprises 15 species of mites responsible for skin lesions on the face, legs, or body of various wild and domestic birds. A number of 54 common ravens, Corvus corax (Aves: Passeriformes: Corvidae) were found dead (accidental poisoning) in March 2009, in Târgu Mureş, Romania. One individual presented bilateral symptoms of scaly leg disease. Microscopic examination revealed the presence of Knemidocoptes intermedius (Epidermoptidae, Knemidocoptinae) in one bird. The lesions were present on both feet (bilateral) and consisted of moderate hypertrophic crusts on the dorsal and ventral part of the toes as well as the distal part of the tarsometatarsal region. It is the first reliable record of K. intermedius in Europe and also the first record of this species in the common raven. The host range and specificity of this parasite is discussed, along with a revision of occurrences in wild birds.}, }
@article {pmid21498476, year = {2011}, author = {Rabbitt, P and Lunn, M and Pendleton, N and Yardefagar, G}, title = {Terminal pathologies affect rates of decline to different extents and age accelerates the effects of terminal pathology on cognitive decline.}, journal = {The journals of gerontology. Series B, Psychological sciences and social sciences}, volume = {66}, number = {3}, pages = {325-334}, doi = {10.1093/geronb/gbr026}, pmid = {21498476}, issn = {1758-5368}, mesh = {Aged ; Aging/*psychology ; *Cause of Death ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Language Tests ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To test whether different terminal pathologies are associated with different rates of age-related decline in fluid and crystallized mental abilities and whether pathology-associated declines are accelerated by age.<br><br>METHODS: During a 20-year longitudinal study, 6203 participants were quadrennially assessed on the Heim's (Heim, A 1970) The AH4 series of intelligence tests Slough, U.K.: NEP) AH4-1 and AH4-2 tests of fluid intelligence and on the Raven's (Raven, J. C. 1965) The Mill Hill Vocabulary Scale London: H.K. Lewis) Mill Hill A and B tests of recognition and production vocabulary. Dates and proximate causes of death were logged for 2499 participants. Multilevel modelling compared rates of decline after effects of sex, demographics, and practice were taken into consideration.<br><br>RESULTS: Rates of cognitive decline markedly differed across pathologies, being most rapid for dementias and infections, slower for malignancies, and most prolonged for cardiovascular conditions. Pathologies were associated with faster declines in older individuals.<br><br>DISCUSSION: After sex, age, and demographics have also been considered, different terminal pathologies are associated with markedly different rates of decline. Age accelerates pathology-related decline. This raises the further question as to whether any, or how much of, age-related cognitive decline is brought about by other causes than an increasing burden of pathologies.}, }
@article {pmid21490255, year = {2011}, author = {Martín-Gálvez, D and Pérez-Contreras, T and Soler, M and Soler, JJ}, title = {Benefits associated with escalated begging behaviour of black-billed magpie nestlings overcompensate the associated energetic costs.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {214}, number = {Pt 9}, pages = {1463-1472}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.050153}, pmid = {21490255}, issn = {1477-9145}, mesh = {Animals ; Cyproheptadine/pharmacology ; Energy Metabolism/drug effects/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/drug effects/*physiology ; Nesting Behavior/drug effects/*physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Video Recording ; }, abstract = {Several experimental results support the existence of costs associated with exaggerated begging behaviour, which are assumed by some theoretical models of honest signalling in parent-offspring communication. However, to understand how honest begging behaviour is evolutionarily maintained in nature, the long-term cost-benefit output associated with exaggerated signals should also be estimated. As far as we know, the net cost-benefit balance of begging display has not previously been explored. Here, we used an appetite stimulant, cyproheptadine hydrochloride, to increase the feeling of hunger in some magpie nestlings. Supporting the use of cyproheptadine to manipulate hunger level and thereby begging behaviour, we found that experimental nestlings increased the frequency of begging and received more food than their control nestmates. Contrary to the expectation that physiological costs per se counteract the associated benefits of escalated begging signals, we found that near-fledging experimental magpies showed a better physical condition than control nestlings. These findings stress the interesting question of why magpie nestlings do not show to adults an escalated level of hunger if it implies an advantage. We discuss the responsibility of inclusive fitness costs and indirect genetic effects for the maintenance of honesty in parent-offspring communication.}, }
@article {pmid21487948, year = {2011}, author = {Mironov, SV and Literák, I and Sychra, O and Capek, M}, title = {A new feather mite species of the genus Picalgoides Černý, 1974 (Astigmata: Psoroptoididae) from a passerine host in Costa Rica.}, journal = {Systematic parasitology}, volume = {79}, number = {1}, pages = {63-70}, pmid = {21487948}, issn = {1573-5192}, mesh = {Acaridae/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Animals ; Costa Rica ; Feathers/*parasitology ; Female ; Male ; Mite Infestations/parasitology/veterinary ; Passeriformes/*parasitology ; }, abstract = {A new feather mite species, Picalgoides giganteus n. sp. (Psoroptoididae: Pandalurinae), is described from the tawny-throated leaftosser Sclerurus mexicanus Sclater (Passeriformes: Furnariidae) in Costa Rica. Among the 10 species of Picalgoides Černý, 1974, including the new one, this is the third recorded from a passerine host; the remaining seven nominal species are associated with hosts of the order Piciformes. Brief data on the host-parasite associations of Picalgoides spp. are provided. Megninia megalixus Trouessart, 1885 from the short-tailed green magpie Cissa thalassina (Temminck) is transferred to Picalgoides as P. megalixus (Trouessart, 1885) n. comb.}, }
@article {pmid21481206, year = {2011}, author = {Martín-Gálvez, D and Peralta-Sánchez, JM and Dawson, DA and Martín-Platero, AM and Martínez-Bueno, M and Burke, T and Soler, JJ}, title = {DNA sampling from eggshell swabbing is widely applicable in wild bird populations as demonstrated in 23 species.}, journal = {Molecular ecology resources}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {481-493}, doi = {10.1111/j.1755-0998.2010.02953.x}, pmid = {21481206}, issn = {1755-0998}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*classification/*genetics ; DNA/*genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Egg Shell/*chemistry ; Specimen Handling/methods ; }, abstract = {There is increasing interest in noninvasive DNA sampling techniques. In birds, there are several methods proposed for sampling DNA, and of these, the use of eggshell swabbing is potentially applicable to a wide range of species. We estimated the effectiveness of this method in the wild by sampling the eggs of 23 bird species. Sampling of eggs was performed twice per nest, soon after the clutch was laid and again at the end of egg incubation. We genotyped DNA samples using a set of five conserved microsatellite markers, which included a Z-linked locus and a sex-typing marker. We successfully collected avian DNA from the eggs of all species tested and from 88.48% of the samples. In most of the cases, the DNA concentration was low (ca. 10 ng/μL). The number of microsatellite loci amplified per sample (0-5) was used as a measure of the genotyping success of the sample. On average, we genotyped 3.01 ± 0.12 loci per sample (mean ± SE), and time of sampling did not seem to have an effect; however, genotyping success differed among species and was greater in those species that used feather material for lining their nest cups. We also checked for the occurrence of possible genotyping errors derived from using samples with very low DNA quantities (i.e. allelic dropout or false alleles) and for DNA contamination from individuals other than the mother, which appeared at a moderate rate (in 44% of the PCR replicates and in 17.36% of samples, respectively). Additionally, we investigated whether the DNA on eggshells corresponded to maternal DNA by comparing the genotypes obtained from the eggshells to those obtained from blood samples of all the nestlings for six nests of magpies. In five of the six magpie nests, we found evidence that the swab genotypes were a mixture of genotypes from both parents and this finding was independent of the time of incubation. Thus, our results broadly confirm that the swabbing of eggshells can be used as a noninvasive method for obtaining DNA and is applicable across a wide range of bird species. Nonetheless, genotyping errors should be properly estimated for each species by using a suite of highly polymorphic loci. These errors may be resolved by sampling only recently laid eggs (to avoid non-maternal DNA contamination) or by performing several PCR replicates per sample (to avoid allelic dropout and false alleles) and/or by increasing the amount of DNA used in the PCR through increasing the volume of the PCR or increasing the concentration of template DNA.}, }
@article {pmid21479036, year = {2011}, author = {Toland, JR and Kaston, ZA and Sorrentino, C and Search, CP}, title = {Chirped area coupled resonator optical waveguide gyroscope.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {36}, number = {7}, pages = {1221-1223}, doi = {10.1364/OL.36.001221}, pmid = {21479036}, issn = {1539-4794}, abstract = {We study the transmission of an optical field through a rotating coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW) in which the size of the ring resonators changes from one ring to the next. We focus on symmetric integer wavelength chirps of the circumference of the rings relative to the central ring in the array. The transfer matrix method is used to obtain the transmission as a function of the inertial rotation rate Ω resulting from the Sagnac effect. Chirping increases the slope of the oscillations in the transmission as a function of Ω, which can be exploited to further enhance the rotation sensitivity beyond that of a CROW with uniform resonators.}, }
@article {pmid21478653, year = {2011}, author = {Kondoh, D and Nashimoto, M and Kanayama, S and Nakamuta, N and Taniguchi, K}, title = {Ultrastructural and histochemical properties of the olfactory system in the japanese jungle crow, Corvus macrorhynchos.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {73}, number = {8}, pages = {1007-1014}, doi = {10.1292/jvms.10-0574}, pmid = {21478653}, issn = {1347-7439}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Immunohistochemistry/veterinary ; Japan ; Male ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning/veterinary ; Microscopy, Electron, Transmission/veterinary ; Olfactory Bulb/*anatomy &amp; histology/metabolism ; Olfactory Mucosa/*anatomy &amp; histology/innervation/ultrastructure ; Olfactory Nerve/ultrastructure ; Olfactory Receptor Neurons/metabolism ; Phytohemagglutinins/metabolism ; Plant Lectins/metabolism ; Soybean Proteins/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Although it has been commonly believed that birds are more dependent on the vision and audition than the olfaction, recent studies indicate that the olfaction of birds is related to the reproductive, homing, and predatory behaviors. In an attempt to reveal the dependence on the olfactory system in crows, we examined the olfactory system of the Japanese jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) by histological, ultrastructural, and lectin histochemical methods. The olfactory epithelium (OE) of the crow occupied remarkably a small area of the nasal cavity (NC) and had the histological and ultrastructural features like other birds. The olfactory bulb (OB) of the crow was remarkably small and did not possess the olfactory ventricle. The left and right halves of the OB were fused in many cases. In the lectin histochemistry, soybean agglutinin (SBA) and Vicia villosa agglutinin (VVA) stained a small number of the receptor cells (RCs) in the OE and the olfactory nerve layer (ONL) and glomerular layer (GL) on the dorsocaudal region of the OB. Phaseolus vulgaris agglutinin-E (PHA-E) stained several RCs in the OE and the ONL and GL on the ventral region of the OB. These results suggest that 1) the crow has less-developed olfactory system than other birds, and 2) the dedicated olfactory receptor cells project their axons to the specific regions of the OB in the crow.}, }
@article {pmid21473166, year = {2011}, author = {Hsu, H}, title = {Seeing Jay-Z in Taipei.}, journal = {Daedalus}, volume = {140}, number = {1}, pages = {163-173}, doi = {10.1162/daed_a_00068}, pmid = {21473166}, issn = {0011-5266}, mesh = {*Black or African American/education/ethnology/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; *Asian/education/ethnology/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; *Cross-Cultural Comparison ; Emigrants and Immigrants/education/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Population Groups/education/ethnology/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; Race Relations/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; *Social Behavior/history ; Social Change/history ; *Social Identification ; Taiwan/ethnology ; *Technology/economics/education/history ; United States/ethnology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {How does the newly arrived immigrant respond to the news that an identity already awaits him? How does an African American hip-hop artist translate his struggles and triumphs across oceanic divides? What significance do American demographic shifts have in a global context? Hsu's essay examines what happens once individuals or identities migrate beyond the contexts that first produced them. He explores a variety of circuits: the satellite communities of Asian immigrant students who arrived on American university campuses in the late 1960s; enduring debates about a "post-city" identity, spurred by advances in cheap, efficient, world-shrinking communication technologies; and the new affinities and categories of self-identification made possible by a present-day culture that prizes interactivity and participation.}, }
@article {pmid21466341, year = {2011}, author = {Yang, C and Zhang, Y and Cai, Y and Stokke, BG and Liang, W}, title = {Female crowing and differential responses to simulated conspecific intrusion in male and female Hainan partridge (Arborophila ardens).}, journal = {Zoological science}, volume = {28}, number = {4}, pages = {249-253}, doi = {10.2108/zsj.28.249}, pmid = {21466341}, issn = {0289-0003}, mesh = {Animals ; China ; Female ; Galliformes/*physiology ; Male ; Sex Factors ; Sexual Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Vocalizations of Hainan partridges (Arborophila ardens) during the breeding season were studied, by making use of playback experiments, in Yinggeling Nature Reserve, Hainan Island, China. Both males and females were found to crow and to produce duet calls during the breeding season, and there was a sex difference in crowing as shown by spectrogram analyses. Both sexes responded strongly to simulated intrusion from pairs of conspecifics. However, it was found that males responded to intrasexual intrusion to a greater extent than to intersexual intrusion. Moreover, females responded strongly to both intra- and intersexual intrusion. Female-female response is proposed as a behavioral mechanism that favors monogamy in the Hainan partridge, and a generally high response to any kind of vocal stimuli indicates that females may play an important role in territory defense in this species. To our knowledge, this is the first report for female crowing in the genus Arborophila, and the second case for female crowing in the family Phasianidae.}, }
@article {pmid21464962, year = {2011}, author = {Fraser, ON and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Ravens reconcile after aggressive conflicts with valuable partners.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {6}, number = {3}, pages = {e18118}, pmid = {21464962}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {*Aggression ; Animals ; *Conflict, Psychological ; *Cooperative Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; }, abstract = {Reconciliation, a post-conflict affiliative interaction between former opponents, is an important mechanism for reducing the costs of aggressive conflict in primates and some other mammals as it may repair the opponents' relationship and reduce post-conflict distress. Opponents who share a valuable relationship are expected to be more likely to reconcile as for such partners the benefits of relationship repair should outweigh the risk of renewed aggression. In birds, however, post-conflict behavior has thus far been marked by an apparent absence of reconciliation, suggested to result either from differing avian and mammalian strategies or because birds may not share valuable relationships with partners with whom they engage in aggressive conflict. Here, we demonstrate the occurrence of reconciliation in a group of captive subadult ravens (Corvus corax) and show that it is more likely to occur after conflicts between partners who share a valuable relationship. Furthermore, former opponents were less likely to engage in renewed aggression following reconciliation, suggesting that reconciliation repairs damage caused to their relationship by the preceding conflict. Our findings suggest not only that primate-like valuable relationships exist outside the pair bond in birds, but that such partners may employ the same mechanisms in birds as in primates to ensure that the benefits afforded by their relationships are maintained even when conflicts of interest escalate into aggression. These results provide further support for a convergent evolution of social strategies in avian and mammalian species.}, }
@article {pmid21463696, year = {2011}, author = {Desco, M and Navas-Sanchez, FJ and Sanchez-González, J and Reig, S and Robles, O and Franco, C and Guzmán-De-Villoria, JA and García-Barreno, P and Arango, C}, title = {Mathematically gifted adolescents use more extensive and more bilateral areas of the fronto-parietal network than controls during executive functioning and fluid reasoning tasks.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {57}, number = {1}, pages = {281-292}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroimage.2011.03.063}, pmid = {21463696}, issn = {1095-9572}, mesh = {Adolescent ; *Brain Mapping ; Cerebral Cortex/*physiology ; *Child, Gifted ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted ; Intelligence/physiology ; Male ; Mathematical Concepts ; Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The main goal of this study was to investigate the neural substrates of fluid reasoning and visuospatial working memory in adolescents with precocious mathematical ability. The study population comprised two groups of adolescents: 13 math-gifted adolescents and 14 controls with average mathematical skills. Patterns of activation specific to reasoning tasks in math-gifted subjects were examined using functional magnetic resonance images acquired while the subjects were performing Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM) and the Tower of London (TOL) tasks. During the tasks, both groups showed significant activations in the frontoparietal network. In the math-gifted group, clusters of activation were always bilateral and more regions were recruited, especially in the right hemisphere. In the TOL task, math-gifted adolescents showed significant hyper-activations relative to controls in the precuneus, superior occipital lobe (BA 19), and medial temporal lobe (BA 39). The maximum differences between the groups were detected during RAPM tasks at the highest level of difficulty, where math-gifted subjects showed significant activations relative to controls in the right inferior parietal lobule (BA 40), anterior cingulated gyrus (BA 32), and frontal (BA 9, and BA 6) areas. Our results support the hypothesis that greater ability for complex mathematical reasoning may be related to more bilateral patterns of activation and that increased activation in the parietal and frontal regions of math-gifted adolescents is associated with enhanced skills in visuospatial processing and logical reasoning.}, }
@article {pmid21448574, year = {2011}, author = {Cullen, KE and Yates, BJ}, title = {Vestibular neurophysiology: a collection of papers in honor of the career of Jay Goldberg.}, journal = {Experimental brain research}, volume = {210}, number = {3-4}, pages = {327-329}, pmid = {21448574}, issn = {1432-1106}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Iceland ; Neurophysiology/*history ; Vestibule, Labyrinth/*physiology ; }, }
@article {pmid21447109, year = {2011}, author = {Shimizu, H and Komori, K and Fukuhara, R and Shinagawa, S and Toyota, Y and Kashibayashi, T and Sonobe, N and Matsumoto, T and Mori, T and Ishikawa, T and Hokoishi, K and Tanimukai, S and Ueno, S and Ikeda, M}, title = {Clinical profiles of late-onset semantic dementia, compared with early-onset semantic dementia and late-onset Alzheimer's disease.}, journal = {Psychogeriatrics : the official journal of the Japanese Psychogeriatric Society}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {46-53}, doi = {10.1111/j.1479-8301.2010.00351.x}, pmid = {21447109}, issn = {1479-8301}, mesh = {Age of Onset ; Aged ; Alzheimer Disease/diagnosis/psychology ; Behavioral Symptoms ; Case-Control Studies ; Cognition ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Female ; Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Stereotyped Behavior ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Semantic dementia (SD) has been recognized as a representative of dementia with presenile onset; however, recent epidemiological studies have shown that SD also occurs in the elderly. There have been few studies about the differences of clinical profiles between early-onset SD (EO-SD) and late-onset SD (LO-SD). Age-associated changes in the brain might cause some additional cognitive and behavioural profiles of LO-SD in contrast to the typical EO-SD cases. The aim of the present study was to clarify the characteristics of neuropsychological, and behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) profiles of LO-SD patients observed in screening tests in comparison with EO-SD patients and late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LO-AD) patients as controls.<br><br>METHODS: Study participants were LO-SD (n = 10), EO-SD (n = 15) and LO-AD (n = 47). We examined the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM), the Short-Memory Questionnaire (SMQ), the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) and the Stereotypy Rating Inventory (SRI).<br><br>RESULTS: Both SD groups scored significantly lower than the LO-AD patients in 'naming' of the MMSE. In the 'construction' score of the MMSE and the RCPM score, however, the LO-SD patients as well as the LO-AD patients were significantly lower than the EO-SD patients. In the SMQ score, 'euphoria' and 'disinhibition' scores of the NPI, the SRI total and subscale scores, both SD groups were significantly higher, whereas in the 'delusion' score of the NPI, both SD groups were significantly lower than the LO-AD patients.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Visuospatial and constructive skills of LO-SD patients might be mildly deteriorated compared with EO-SD patients, whereas other cognitive and behavioural profiles of LO-SD are similar to EO-SD. Age-associated changes in the brain should be considered when we diagnose SD in elderly patients.}, }
@article {pmid21443743, year = {2011}, author = {Bazin, R and Lévêque, JL}, title = {Longitudinal study of skin aging: from microrelief to wrinkles.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {135-140}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-0846.2010.00481.x}, pmid = {21443743}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Adult ; *Dermoscopy ; Female ; Humans ; *Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Models, Anatomic ; Skin/*pathology ; Skin Aging/*pathology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {AIM: To study the changes in skin microrelief and periocular wrinkles during the aging process.<br><br>METHODS: Replicas of the crow's feet area of volunteers were recorded in 1987 and 2008 and observed comparatively. Characteristic features were quantified by image analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: Observation shows that some microrelief features disappear and even merge with wrinkles that become more marked. Some primary lines also tend to merge to form thin new wrinkles. Quantitative data support these observations: the size of small and medium objects of skin relief decreases with age while large objects are becoming larger.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Over 21 years, in the group studied, the total area of the detected objects remains quite constant. Only the distribution between small and large detected objects (microrelief features and wrinkles, respectively) is modified.}, }
@article {pmid21438695, year = {2011}, author = {Boyce, WM and Vickers, W and Morrison, SA and Sillett, TS and Caldwell, L and Wheeler, SS and Barker, CM and Cummings, R and Reisen, WK}, title = {Surveillance for West Nile virus and vaccination of free-ranging island scrub-jays (Aphelocoma insularis) on Santa Cruz Island, California.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {11}, number = {8}, pages = {1063-1068}, pmid = {21438695}, issn = {1557-7759}, support = {R01-AI55607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*prevention &amp; control/transmission/*virology ; Birds ; California/epidemiology ; Case-Control Studies ; Culex/virology ; Sentinel Surveillance ; Temperature ; Vaccination/methods ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*prevention &amp; control/transmission ; West Nile Virus Vaccines/*administration &amp; dosage ; West Nile virus/immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Transmission of West Nile virus (WNV) on mainland California poses an ongoing threat to the island scrub-jay (ISSJ, Aphelocoma insularis), a species that occurs only on Santa Cruz Island, California, and whose total population numbers <5000. Our report describes the surveillance and management efforts conducted since 2006 that are designed to understand and mitigate for the consequences of WNV introduction into the ISSJ population. We suspect that WNV would most likely be introduced to the island via the movement of infected birds from the mainland. However, antibody testing of >750 migrating and resident birds on the island from 2006 to 2009 indicated that WNV had not become established by the end of 2009. Several species of competent mosquito vectors were collected at very low abundance on the island, including the important mainland vectors Culex tarsalis and Culex quinquefasciatus. However, the island was generally cooler than areas of mainland California that experienced intense WNV transmission, and these lower temperatures may have reduced the likelihood of WNV becoming established because they do not support efficient virus replication in mosquitoes. A vaccination program was initiated in 2008 to create a rescue population of ISSJ that would be more likely to survive a catastrophic outbreak. To further that goal, we recommend managers vaccinate >100 ISSJ each year as part of ongoing research and monitoring efforts.}, }
@article {pmid21438693, year = {2011}, author = {Wheeler, SS and Langevin, S and Woods, L and Carroll, BD and Vickers, W and Morrison, SA and Chang, GJ and Reisen, WK and Boyce, WM}, title = {Efficacy of three vaccines in protecting Western Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma californica) from experimental infection with West Nile virus: implications for vaccination of Island Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma insularis).}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {11}, number = {8}, pages = {1069-1080}, pmid = {21438693}, issn = {1557-7759}, support = {R01-AI55607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Autopsy ; Bird Diseases/pathology/*prevention &amp; control/*virology ; Birds ; California ; Disease Models, Animal ; Immunohistochemistry ; Vaccination/*methods/standards ; West Nile Fever/pathology/*prevention &amp; control ; West Nile Virus Vaccines/immunology/*standards ; West Nile virus/*immunology ; }, abstract = {The devastating effect of West Nile virus (WNV) on the avifauna of North America has led zoo managers and conservationists to attempt to protect vulnerable species through vaccination. The Island Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma insularis) is one such species, being a corvid with a highly restricted insular range. Herein, we used congeneric Western Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma californica) to test the efficacy of three WNV vaccines in protecting jays from an experimental challenge with WNV: (1) the Fort Dodge West Nile-Innovator(®) DNA equine vaccine, (2) an experimental DNA plasmid vaccine, pCBWN, and (3) the Merial Recombitek(®) equine vaccine. Vaccine efficacy after challenge was compared with naïve and nonvaccinated positive controls and a group of naturally immune jays. Overall, vaccination lowered peak viremia compared with nonvaccinated positive controls, but some WNV-related pathology persisted and the viremia was sufficient to possibly infect susceptible vector mosquitoes. The Fort Dodge West Nile-Innovator DNA equine vaccine and the pCBWN vaccine provided humoral immune priming and limited side effects. Five of the six birds vaccinated with the Merial Recombitek vaccine, including a vaccinated, non-WNV challenged control, developed extensive necrotic lesions in the pectoral muscle at the vaccine inoculation sites, which were attributed to the Merial vaccine. In light of the well-documented devastating effects of high morbidity and mortality associated with WNV infection in corvids, vaccination of Island Scrub-Jays with either the Fort Dodge West Nile-Innovator DNA vaccine or the pCBWN vaccine may increase the numbers of birds that would survive an epizootic should WNV become established on Santa Cruz Island.}, }
@article {pmid21435067, year = {2011}, author = {Smits, DW and Ketelaar, M and Gorter, JW and van Schie, PE and Becher, JG and Lindeman, E and Jongmans, MJ}, title = {Development of non-verbal intellectual capacity in school-age children with cerebral palsy.}, journal = {Journal of intellectual disability research : JIDR}, volume = {55}, number = {6}, pages = {550-562}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2788.2011.01409.x}, pmid = {21435067}, issn = {1365-2788}, mesh = {Cerebral Palsy/*diagnosis/*psychology/rehabilitation ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cohort Studies ; Disability Evaluation ; Female ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*diagnosis/*psychology/rehabilitation ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Children with cerebral palsy (CP) are at greater risk for a limited intellectual development than typically developing children. Little information is available which children with CP are most at risk. This study aimed to describe the development of non-verbal intellectual capacity of school-age children with CP and to examine the association between the development of non-verbal intellectual capacity and the severity of CP.<br><br>METHODS: A longitudinal analysis in a cohort study was performed with a clinic-based sample of children with CP. Forty-two children were assessed at 5, 6 and 7 years of age, and 49 children were assessed at 7, 8 and 9 years of age. Non-verbal intellectual capacity was assessed by Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM). Severity of CP was classified by the Gross Motor Function Classification System, type of motor impairment and limb distribution. manova for repeated measurements was used to analyse time effects and time &#xd7; group effects on both RCPM raw scores and RCPM intelligence quotient scores.<br><br>RESULTS: The development of non-verbal intellectual capacity was characterised by a statistically significant increase in RCPM raw scores but no significant change in RCPM intelligence quotient scores. The development of RCPM raw scores was significantly associated with the severity of CP. Children with higher levels of gross motor functioning and children with spastic CP showed greater increase in raw scores than children with lower levels of gross motor functioning and children with dyskinetic CP.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Children with CP aged between 5 and 9 years show different developmental trajectories for non-verbal intellectual capacity, which are associated with the severity of CP. The development of non-verbal intellectual capacity in children with less severe CP seems to resemble that of typically developing children, while children with more severe CP show a limited intellectual development compared to typically developing children.}, }
@article {pmid21434994, year = {2011}, author = {Clausen, TD and Mortensen, EL and Schmidt, L and Mathiesen, ER and Hansen, T and Jensen, DM and Holm, S and Poulsen, L and From, M and Damm, P}, title = {Cognitive function in adult offspring of women with Type 1 diabetes.}, journal = {Diabetic medicine : a journal of the British Diabetic Association}, volume = {28}, number = {7}, pages = {838-844}, doi = {10.1111/j.1464-5491.2011.03300.x}, pmid = {21434994}, issn = {1464-5491}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Adult Children ; Analysis of Variance ; Cognition/*physiology ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/genetics/*physiopathology ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Intelligence/genetics/*physiology ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy in Diabetics/genetics/*physiopathology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {AIMS: Maternal diabetes may affect offspring cognitive function. The objective of the study was to evaluate cognitive function and potential predictors hereof in adult offspring of women with Type 1 diabetes.<br><br>METHODS: We conducted a follow-up study of adult offspring of women with Type 1 diabetes (n = 158) and a reference group from the background population (n = 118). The main outcome measure was offspring cognitive function measured by global cognitive score, derived from Raven's Progressive Matrices and three verbal subtests from the Weschler Adult Intelligence Scale.<br><br>RESULTS: Offspring of women with Type 1 diabetes obtained lower global cognitive scores (94.8 vs. 100.0, P = 0.004) than offspring from the background population. When adjusted for confounders, the groups no longer differed significantly (difference 0.4, 95% CI -3.3 to 4.). Positive predictors of cognitive function in offspring of women with diabetes were family social class, parental educational level, maternal diabetes duration, male gender and offspring age, whereas parity &#x2265; 1 and gestational age < 34 weeks were negative predictors. We found no association with maternal glycaemia during pregnancy or with neonatal hypoglycaemia.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Impaired cognitive function in adult offspring of women with Type 1 diabetes compared with the background population apparently reflects differences with respect to well-known confounders. However, harmful effects of maternal hyperglycaemia may be mediated through delivery at < 34 weeks.}, }
@article {pmid21428989, year = {2011}, author = {Moriya, S and Tei, K and Murata, A and Yamazaki, Y and Hata, H and Muramatsu, M and Kitagawa, Y and Inoue, N and Miura, H}, title = {Associations between self-assessed masticatory ability and higher brain function among the elderly.}, journal = {Journal of oral rehabilitation}, volume = {38}, number = {10}, pages = {746-753}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2842.2011.02214.x}, pmid = {21428989}, issn = {1365-2842}, mesh = {*Activities of Daily Living ; Aged ; Aging/*physiology ; Ambulatory Care ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Logistic Models ; Male ; Mastication/*physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Self-Assessment ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; }, abstract = {Among the elderly, the quality of higher brain function is a contributing factor in performing activities of daily living. The aim of the study is to elucidate, epidemiologically, associations between mastication and higher brain function. A total of 208 community-dwelling elderly persons, aged 70-74 years, were enrolled. Self-assessed masticatory ability (masticatory ability) was classified into one of three categories: ability to chew all kinds of food, ability to chew only slightly hard food, or ability to chew only soft or pureed food. Brain function was assessed by four neuropsychological tests: Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test, the Verbal Paired Associates 1 (VerPA) task and the Visual Paired Associates 1 task (from the Wechsler Memory Scale Revised Edition), and the Block Design subtest (from the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scales-Third Edition). Correlations between masticatory ability and each test were examined using Spearman rank correlation coefficients. Multinominal logistic regression models were conducted with the neuropsychological tests as the dependent variables and masticatory ability as the principal independent variable to adjust for age, gender, educational background, social activity, drinking/smoking habits, chronic medical conditions and dental status. Significant correlations were found between the RCPM test, the VerPA task, the Block Design test and masticatory ability. In multinominal logistic regression models, poor masticatory ability was significantly and independently related to the categories under the mean-s.d. points compared with those of the mean ± s.d. ranges for RCPM test and the VerPA task. Significant associations may exist between mastication and higher brain function among the elderly.}, }
@article {pmid21428525, year = {2011}, author = {Collins, MD}, title = {Putative audio recordings of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker (Campephilus principalis).}, journal = {The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America}, volume = {129}, number = {3}, pages = {1626-1630}, doi = {10.1121/1.3544370}, pmid = {21428525}, issn = {1520-8524}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Endangered Species ; Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Sound Spectrography ; Species Specificity ; Time Factors ; Video Recording ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Putative audio recordings of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker (Campephilus principalis) are presented along with discussions of the videos from which they were extracted and the observations that were made when these data were obtained. On two occasions, high-pitched calls were heard coming from the direction of a bird that was identified in the field as an Ivory-billed Woodpecker. These calls seem to match the description of an alarm call that was reported in the 1930s. One of the videos captured a series of the high-pitched calls, which sound similar to the Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata) bell call but do not match published sonograms of that call. A putative double knock, which is characteristic of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker, was captured in another video a little over a minute before a large bird with characteristics consistent with an Ivory-billed Woodpecker flew into view. Since it is extremely difficult to observe this critically endangered species, information on audio clues could have an impact on its conservation.}, }
@article {pmid21426272, year = {2011}, author = {Aminabadi, NA and Erfanparast, L and Adhami, ZE and Maljaii, E and Ranjbar, F and Jamali, Z}, title = {The impact of emotional intelligence and intelligence quotient (IQ) on child anxiety and behavior in the dental setting.}, journal = {Acta odontologica Scandinavica}, volume = {69}, number = {5}, pages = {292-298}, doi = {10.3109/00016357.2011.568959}, pmid = {21426272}, issn = {1502-3850}, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological ; Age Factors ; Child ; *Child Behavior ; Cooperative Behavior ; Dental Amalgam ; Dental Anxiety/classification/*psychology ; Dental Care/*psychology ; Dental Caries/therapy ; Dental Cavity Preparation/psychology ; Dental High-Speed Equipment ; Dental Restoration, Permanent/psychology ; *Emotional Intelligence ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Interpersonal Relations ; Male ; Rubber Dams/psychology ; Self Concept ; Stress, Psychological/psychology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of IQ and EQ on child's anxiety and behavior in the dental setting.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and seven children (age range 7-12 years) were selected. BarOn Emotional Quotient Inventory: Youth Version (Baron EQ-I: YV) and the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) tests were administered on the first examination session. Children's anxiety and behavior were evaluated using the modified child dental anxiety scale (MCDAS) and the sound, eye and motor (SEM) scales, respectively, during the second session.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean (SD) age of subjects was 8.48 (1.41) years old. The result revealed a significant negative correlation between children's behavior and total EQ score (p < 0.01) but there was no relationship found between children's behavior and IQ score. A significant positive correlation was found between anxiety scores on MCDAS and SEM (p < 0.01), but no relationship was found between EQ and MCDAS scores. Both anxiety (p < 0.01) and EQ score (p < 0.01) were effective variables in predicting the child's SEM score.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The major finding of this research suggested that a high EQ may be more effective than a low EQ in moderating the level of cooperation during dental treatment of children. IQ scores, on the other hand, were related to the child's EQ score (r = 0.20) and age (r = - 0.29).}, }
@article {pmid21409436, year = {2011}, author = {Yosef, R and Kabesa, S and Yosef, N}, title = {Set a thief to catch a thief: brown-necked raven (Corvus ruficollis) cooperatively kleptoparasitize Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus).}, journal = {Die Naturwissenschaften}, volume = {98}, number = {5}, pages = {443-446}, pmid = {21409436}, issn = {1432-1904}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Egypt ; Falconiformes/*parasitology/*physiology ; Female ; Nesting Behavior/physiology ; }, abstract = {Our study describes how brown-necked ravens (Corvus ruficollis) are able to take advantage of an ordinarily inaccessible, high-quality food source by relying upon their innovative and manipulative thinking capabilities to exploit methods used by Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus) to overcome the problem. In five observed interactions, the ravens were first seen in the vicinity of an abandoned clutch of ostrich eggs (Struthio camelus). The area was frequented by a pair of Egyptian vultures that bred on the cliffs across the road from the nature reserve. The Egyptian vulture exhibits tool use in birds, and is able to crack the hard shells of ostrich eggs by lifting a rock in the beak and pounding at the egg till it breaks open or cracks. If the egg is only cracked, the vulture inserts its narrow bill into the fissure and widens it by opening the mandibles. Pieces of eggshell are removed from around the crack in order to further open the egg. This is the point at which the pair of ravens attacked the vulture and harassed it till it abandoned the egg and left the area. The ravens then jointly enjoyed the contents of the egg which was otherwise inaccessible to them because of the strong egg shell.}, }
@article {pmid21401876, year = {2011}, author = {da Rocha, FF and Malloy-Diniz, L and Lage, NV and Corrêa, H}, title = {The relationship between the Met allele of the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism and impairments in decision making under ambiguity in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder.}, journal = {Genes, brain, and behavior}, volume = {10}, number = {5}, pages = {523-529}, doi = {10.1111/j.1601-183X.2011.00687.x}, pmid = {21401876}, issn = {1601-183X}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Alleles ; Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor/*genetics ; Decision Making/*physiology ; Executive Function/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder/*genetics/psychology ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; }, abstract = {Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene has an important link to neurotransmitter systems, including serotonin, and seems to play a major role in emotional decision making. Impairment of decision making is an important feature of psychiatric disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). We explore the link between decision making and the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism, which results in a reduction of BDNF activity, in a sample of Caucasian OCD patients. We used the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) to measure decision making in 122 OCD patients. All patients were assessed using the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale, the Beck Depression Inventory, the Beck Anxiety Inventory and the Raven Progressive Matrices. Patients also performed the Continuous Performance Task (CPT-II) and the Trail Making Test (TMT). We grouped Met-allele carriers because these act in a dominant way. Met-allele carries exhibited low performance on both halves of the IGT (first half -F = -2.51, df = 120, P = 0.01; second half -F = -2.32, df = 120, P = 0.02). However, logistic regression analyses showed that the influence of the Met allele seemed to be restricted to the first half of the IGT [first half -β = 0.55, df = 1, P < 0.01, odds ratio (OR) = 5.62; second half -β = 0.32, df = 1, P = 0.15, OR = 2.30]. No differences were observed in tests used to evaluate executive functions associated with the dorsolateral prefrontal cortices (TMT and CPT-II, df = 120, P > 0.05 for both). Met-allele impairment may only be related to decisions made under ambiguous conditions. The null results involving TMT and CPT-II are possibly related to the dysfunction of the orbitofrontal cortices that is associated with OCD.}, }
@article {pmid21384141, year = {2011}, author = {Péron, F and Rat-Fischer, L and Lalot, M and Nagle, L and Bovet, D}, title = {Cooperative problem solving in African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {14}, number = {4}, pages = {545-553}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-011-0389-2}, pmid = {21384141}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cooperative Behavior ; Female ; Male ; *Parrots ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {One of the main characteristics of human societies is the extensive degree of cooperation among individuals. Cooperation is an elaborate phenomenon, also found in non-human primates during laboratory studies and field observations of animal hunting behaviour, among other things. Some authors suggest that the pressures assumed to have favoured the emergence of social intelligence in primates are similar to those that may have permitted the emergence of complex cognitive abilities in some bird species such as corvids and psittacids. In the wild, parrots show cooperative behaviours such as bi-parental care and mobbing. In this study, we tested cooperative problem solving in African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus). Our birds were tested using several experimental setups to explore the different levels of behavioural organisation between participants, differing in temporal and spatial complexity. In our experiments, African grey parrots were able to act simultaneously but mostly failed during the delay task, maybe because of a lack of inhibitory motor response. Confronted with the possibility to adapt their behaviour to the presence or absence of a partner, they showed that they were able to coordinate their actions. They also collaborated, acting complementarily in order to solve tasks, but they were not able to place themselves in the partner's role.}, }
@article {pmid21383115, year = {2011}, author = {Nemeth, NM and Thomsen, BV and Spraker, TR and Benson, JM and Bosco-Lauth, AM and Oesterle, PT and Bright, JM and Muth, JP and Campbell, TW and Gidlewski, TL and Bowen, RA}, title = {Clinical and pathologic responses of American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and fish crows (C ossifragus) to experimental West Nile virus infection.}, journal = {Veterinary pathology}, volume = {48}, number = {6}, pages = {1061-1074}, doi = {10.1177/0300985811398249}, pmid = {21383115}, issn = {1544-2217}, support = {N01-AI25489/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Antibodies, Viral/*blood ; Antigens, Viral/*blood ; Bird Diseases/mortality/*pathology/virology ; Crows/*virology ; Electrocardiography/veterinary ; Feces/virology ; Species Specificity ; Viremia/veterinary ; Virus Replication ; West Nile Fever/mortality/pathology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*immunology/isolation &amp; purification/physiology ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV)-associated disease has a range of clinical manifestations among avian taxa, the reasons for which are not known. Species susceptibility varies within the avian family Corvidae, with estimated mortality rates ranging from 50 to 100%. We examined and compared virologic, immunologic, pathologic, and clinical responses in 2 corvid species, the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and the fish crow (C ossifragus), following experimental WNV inoculation. Unlike fish crows, which remained clinically normal throughout the study, American crows succumbed to WNV infection subsequent to dehydration, electrolyte and pH imbalances, and delayed or depressed humoral immune responses concurrent with marked, widespread virus replication. Viral titers were approximately 3,000 times greater in blood and 30,000 to 50,000 times greater in other tissues (eg, pancreas and small intestine) in American crows versus fish crows. Histologic lesion patterns and antigen deposition supported the differing clinical outcomes, with greater severity and distribution of lesions and WNV antigen in American crows. Both crow species had multiorgan necrosis and inflammation, although lesions were more frequent, severe, and widespread in American crows, in which the most commonly affected tissues were small intestine, spleen, and liver. American crows also had inflammation of vessels and nerves in multiple tissues, including heart, kidney, and the gastrointestinal tract. WNV antigen was most commonly observed within monocytes, macrophages, and other cells of the reticuloendothelial system of affected tissues. Collectively, the data support that WNV-infected American crows experience uncontrolled systemic infection leading to multiorgan failure and rapid death.}, }
@article {pmid21381270, year = {2011}, author = {Cornuz, J and Pécoud, A and Waeber, G and Gaspoz, JM and Perrier, A}, title = {[An anniversary and a crow!].}, journal = {Revue medicale suisse}, volume = {7}, number = {280}, pages = {283}, pmid = {21381270}, issn = {1660-9379}, mesh = {*Evidence-Based Medicine ; *General Practice ; Humans ; Periodicals as Topic ; }, }
@article {pmid21373192, year = {2011}, author = {Range, F and Virányi, Z}, title = {Development of gaze following abilities in wolves (Canis lupus).}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {e16888}, pmid = {21373192}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {P 21244/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animal Communication ; Animals ; Attention/*physiology ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; *Biological Evolution ; Cues ; Dogs ; Fixation, Ocular/*physiology ; Habituation, Psychophysiologic/physiology ; Humans ; Models, Biological ; Visual Perception/physiology ; Wolves/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The ability to coordinate with others' head and eye orientation to look in the same direction is considered a key step towards an understanding of others mental states like attention and intention. Here, we investigated the ontogeny and habituation patterns of gaze following into distant space and behind barriers in nine hand-raised wolves. We found that these wolves could use conspecific as well as human gaze cues even in the barrier task, which is thought to be more cognitively advanced than gazing into distant space. Moreover, while gaze following into distant space was already present at the age of 14 weeks and subjects did not habituate to repeated cues, gazing around a barrier developed considerably later and animals quickly habituated, supporting the hypothesis that different cognitive mechanisms may underlie the two gaze following modalities. More importantly, this study demonstrated that following another individuals' gaze around a barrier is not restricted to primates and corvids but is also present in canines, with remarkable between-group similarities in the ontogeny of this behaviour. This sheds new light on the evolutionary origins of and selective pressures on gaze following abilities as well as on the sensitivity of domestic dogs towards human communicative cues.}, }
@article {pmid21361920, year = {2011}, author = {Beels, C}, title = {Family Process 1962-1969.}, journal = {Family process}, volume = {50}, number = {1}, pages = {4-11}, doi = {10.1111/j.1545-5300.2010.01342.x}, pmid = {21361920}, issn = {1545-5300}, mesh = {*Family Therapy ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Periodicals as Topic/*history ; }, abstract = {This is a personal recollection of the first 8 years of Family Process, the volumes published under the first Editor, Jay Haley, and strongly influenced by the Mental Research Institute at Palo Alto, of which Haley was a member. The later influence of the group's "double bind" hypothesis of schizophrenia is explored. Some ideas about the influence of theory on practice are suggested. Several examples of experiments in the social setting of family work are picked out of these volumes because of their influence on later programs. Finally, the essay offers a retrospective appreciation of the influence of Gregory Bateson on the mood of "revolution" forecast in the opening years of Family Process.}, }
@article {pmid21361179, year = {2011}, author = {Podder, TK and Buzurovic, I and Huang, K and Showalter, T and Dicker, AP and Yu, Y}, title = {Reliability of EUCLIDIAN: an autonomous robotic system for image-guided prostate brachytherapy.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {38}, number = {1}, pages = {96-106}, pmid = {21361179}, issn = {0094-2405}, support = {P30 CA056036/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 CA091763/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; P30-CA056036-09/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; R01-CA091763/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Brachytherapy/*instrumentation ; Humans ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; Male ; Prostatic Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Radiometry ; Radiotherapy, Computer-Assisted/*instrumentation ; Reproducibility of Results ; Robotics/*instrumentation ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: Recently, several robotic systems have been developed to perform accurate and consistent image-guided brachytherapy. Before introducing a new device into clinical operations, it is important to assess the reliability and mean time before failure (MTBF) of the system. In this article, the authors present the preclinical evaluation and analysis of the reliability and MTBF of an autonomous robotic system, which is developed for prostate seed implantation.<br><br>METHODS: The authors have considered three steps that are important in reliability growth analysis. These steps are: Identification and isolation of failures, classification of failures, and trend analysis. For any one-of-a-kind product, the reliability enhancement is accomplished through test-fix-test. The authors have used failure mode and effect analysis for collection and analysis of reliability data by identifying and categorizing the failure modes. Failures were classified according to severity. Failures that occurred during the operation of this robotic system were considered as nonhomogenous Poisson process. The failure occurrence trend was analyzed using Laplace test. For analyzing and predicting reliability growth, commonly used and widely accepted models, Duane's model and the Army Material Systems Analysis Activity, i.e., Crow's model, were applied. The MTBF was used as an important measure for assessing the system's reliability.<br><br>RESULTS: During preclinical testing, 3196 seeds (in 53 test cases) were deposited autonomously by the robot and 14 critical failures were encountered. The majority of the failures occurred during the first few cases. The distribution of failures followed Duane's postulation as well as Crow's postulation of reliability growth. The Laplace test index was -3.82 (<0), indicating a significant trend in failure data, and the failure intervals lengthened gradually. The continuous increase in the failure occurrence interval suggested a trend toward improved reliability. The MTBF was 592 seeds, which implied that several prostate seed implantation cases would be possible without encountering any critical failure. The shape parameter for the MTBF was 0.3859 (<1), suggesting a positive reliability growth of this robotic system. At 95% confidence, the reliability for deposition of 65 seeds was more than 90%.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Analyses of failure mode strongly indicated a gradual improvement of reliability of this autonomous robotic system. High MTBF implied that several prostate seed implant cases would be possible without encountering any critical failure.}, }
@article {pmid21359204, year = {2011}, author = {Dekleva, M and Dufour, V and de Vries, H and Spruijt, BM and Sterck, EH}, title = {Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) fail a what-where-when task but find rewards by using a location-based association strategy.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {e16593}, pmid = {21359204}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Association Learning/*physiology ; Choice Behavior/physiology ; Feeding Behavior/physiology/psychology ; Female ; Food Preferences ; Gestures ; Male ; Memory/*physiology ; Models, Biological ; Pan troglodytes/*physiology/psychology ; Reinforcement, Psychology ; *Reward ; Space Perception/*physiology ; Task Performance and Analysis ; }, abstract = {Recollecting the what-where-when of an episode, or episodic-like memory, has been established in corvids and rodents. In humans, a linkage between remembering the past and imagining the future has been recognised. While chimpanzees can plan for the future, their episodic-like memory has hardly been investigated. We tested chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) with an adapted food-catching paradigm. They observed the baiting of two locations amongst four and chose one after a given delay (15 min, 1 h or 5 h). We used two combinations of food types, a preferred and a less preferred food that disappeared at different rates. The subjects had to base their choices on the time elapsed since baiting, and on their memory of which food was where. They could recover either their preferred food or the one that remained present. All animals failed to obtain the preferred or present foods above chance levels. They were like-wise unsuccessful at choosing baited cups above chance levels. The subjects, thus, failed to use any feature of the baiting events to guide their choices. Nonetheless, their choices were not random, but the result of a developed location-based association strategy. Choices in the second half of the study correlated with the rewards obtained at each location in the first half of the study, independent from the choices made for each location in the first half of the study. This simple location-based strategy yielded a fair amount of food. The animals' failure to remember the what-where-when in the presented set-up may be due to the complexity of the task, rather than an inability to form episodic-like memories, as they even failed to remember what was where after 15 minutes.}, }
@article {pmid21351412, year = {2010}, author = {Terazawa, K}, title = {[Observations on injuries by blunt objects].}, journal = {Nihon hoigaku zasshi = The Japanese journal of legal medicine}, volume = {64}, number = {2}, pages = {103-120}, pmid = {21351412}, issn = {0047-1887}, mesh = {Accidents, Traffic ; Animals ; Autopsy ; Bites and Stings/pathology ; Dogs ; Hemorrhage/pathology ; Humans ; Male ; Rats ; Wounds, Nonpenetrating/*pathology ; }, abstract = {Based on my personal experience publishing case reports on blunt injuries, I hereby focus on issues that have recently come to my attention. 1. Abrasions: 1) As to whether they occurred ante-mortem or post-mortem; those reddish in color cannot always have occurred antemortem. When they overlap with reddish (-purple) discoloration, as in hypostasis, post-mortem abrasions look reddish as well. Abrasions larger than the tip of the finger or the palm of the hand are often seen post-mortem and are thought to occur due to the touching of putrefied skin post-mortem. 2) There are cases where the direction in which the epidermis peeled-off is not apparent, when it peels off in many directions or where there is no residual epidermis. 3) The shape and size of an abrasion can indicate the structure of the offending blunt object. When there is an abrasion on the scalp 3 to 4 cm in diameter, with structures 5 mm in diameter at the margins of the abrasion, it can be inferred that the victim fell on a paved gravel road. 2. Bruises: 1) Inferring the nature of a blunt object: (1) Evidence of a fist blow: Co-existence of the following three features indicates a blow by the fist : 1. macular discoloration, 2. within an area of approximately 8 cm by 5 cm, 3. with an abrasion from the thumb nail. (2) Evidence of being grabbed:Try to grab the corpse with your own hand during autopsy to find how the person was grabbed. Bruise-like discoloration can be generated post-mortem on the upper arm, when a body is being drawn out of water, for example. 2) Tram-line bruises: These appear when a victim was struck by a stick. To estimate the diameter of the object, it is useful to measure two parts of the bruising : the width of the pale part between the bruises and the width between the outer margins of the bruises. 3. Intradermal bleeding: There tends to be a grouping of hemorrhagic spots, the interval between which 1 mm or less. It can be generated by both direct and indirect force. Abrasions may be both present or absent. 4. Contused lacerated wounds: First of all, it is necessary to determine the characteristics of the offending blunt object based on the findings of the wound. When the edge of the end of a column works against the skin at an angle, abrasions are mainly generated on the one margin abraded by the edge. When the smooth round surface of a column is applied, abrasions are not likely to occur on or near the margins. To diagnose a wound as being contused, the following findings are considered valuable : the margins of the wound are more irregular than the incision; the margins are contused; the osseous membrane is detached at the bottom of the wound; and abrasions are present at the margins. Abrasions are generated when the surface of the object is rough and when the sharper edge is at an angle. They tend not to occur when the surface of the object is smooth with no angular edge or when the sharper edge works perpendicularly against the skin. 5. Post-mortem mutilation by animals: It is necessary to distinguish wounds caused by animals from those that are man-made. Crows will tear out the eyeballs, open the intercostal muscle and devour the lungs. They pull and rip off the skin, but do not seem to chew on the bones. Dogs and foxes will chew on the bones, leaving traces of their teeth about 5 mm in width. Rats leave round-shaped parts missing from the skin, the margins of which are quite sharp. They do not seem to chew on the bones. 6. One pattern of injuries from an immersed body: A set of abrasions, bruises, pocket formation (décollement) of the head and face, accompanied by dehiscence or fracture of the spine and drowning indicates jumping into the water face first and banging the head against the bottom of the body of the water, followed by drowning. 7. A case of a traffic accident: The details of the accident became apparent from the following findings in and on the autopsied body: contused lacerations on both knees, abrasions and pocket formation (décollement) on the parietal region of the head, characteristically shaped abrasions on the back, acetabula fractures caused by raising of the femoral head, fractured ribs caused by antero-posterior or posteroanterior compression, and an annular fracture at the base of the skull. The abrasions on the back were determined to have been generated by compression of structures on the underside of the car. The contused lacerations on the knees were considered to have been generated upon impact with the bumper, and the posture of the victim was concluded to have been supine with his knees drawn up. Collaboration with police traffic investigators is considered essential. 8. The medico-legal diagnostic capability of young pathologists could be improved if they observed unexplainable findings during autopsy with their own eyes, researched and discussed the findings with their mentor and colleagues, and published case reports.}, }
@article {pmid21347359, year = {2011}, author = {Chow, BW and Ho, CS and Wong, SW and Waye, MM and Bishop, DV}, title = {Genetic and environmental influences on Chinese language and reading abilities.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {e16640}, pmid = {21347359}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; 082498/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; 082498/z/07/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Child ; Child, Preschool ; China ; Cognition/physiology ; *Environment ; Female ; *Heredity ; Humans ; Male ; Models, Genetic ; Nonverbal Communication/physiology ; *Reading ; }, abstract = {This study investigated the etiology of individual differences in Chinese language and reading skills in 312 typically developing Chinese twin pairs aged from 3 to 11 years (228 pairs of monozygotic twins and 84 pairs of dizygotic twins; 166 male pairs and 146 female pairs). Children were individually given tasks of Chinese word reading, receptive vocabulary, phonological memory, tone awareness, syllable and rhyme awareness, rapid automatized naming, morphological awareness and orthographic skills, and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices. All analyses controlled for the effects of age. There were moderate to substantial genetic influences on word reading, tone awareness, phonological memory, morphological awareness and rapid automatized naming (estimates ranged from .42 to .73), while shared environment exerted moderate to strong effects on receptive vocabulary, syllable and rhyme awareness and orthographic skills (estimates ranged from .35 to .63). Results were largely unchanged when scores were adjusted for nonverbal reasoning as well as age. Findings of this study are mostly similar to those found for English, a language with very different characteristics, and suggest the universality of genetic and environmental influences across languages.}, }
@article {pmid21346267, year = {2011}, author = {Bakhtadze, S and Janelidze, M and Khachapuridze, N}, title = {Quantitative electroencephalography coherence and dipole source index during various cognitive tasks in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.}, journal = {Georgian medical news}, volume = {}, number = {190}, pages = {42-48}, pmid = {21346267}, issn = {1512-0112}, mesh = {Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*diagnosis/psychology ; Child ; Cognition ; Delta Rhythm/*physiology ; Electroencephalography/*methods ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Reaction Time ; }, abstract = {Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most important disorder of childhood and adolescence. Debates about diagnostic approaches requiring for the precise assessment of ADHD remains actual till nowadays. The role of neurophysiological methods for this purpose is controversial. Thus the aim of our study was to observe QEEG changes by means of the most modern software analysis systems- coherence and brainwave activity dipole source localization. We have assessed 39 children- 18 of them from control group (Age range 9-12 years). QEEG was registered during Raven test and adding of one digit numbers. The results were analyzed by means of coherence measures and brainwave bilateral synchronous activity dipole source generator localization detection system (BrainLoc. 6). As a result we observed high coherence measures for ADHD compared to controls. As for dipole source generator we have detected higher dipole equivalent index in control group compared with ADHD children. Thus according to our results it is obvious that QEEG can serve as a valid neurometric tool in the diagnosis of Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.}, }
@article {pmid21332914, year = {2011}, author = {Raspaldo, H and Baspeyras, M and Bellity, P and Dallara, JM and Gassia, V and Niforos, FR and Belhaouari, L and , }, title = {Upper- and mid-face anti-aging treatment and prevention using onabotulinumtoxin A: the 2010 multidisciplinary French consensus--part 1.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {36-50}, doi = {10.1111/j.1473-2165.2010.00544.x}, pmid = {21332914}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Data Collection ; Eyebrows ; Eyelids ; *Face ; Forehead ; France ; Humans ; Neuromuscular Agents/*therapeutic use ; *Rejuvenation ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Onabotulinumtoxin A (onabotulinum) has been used for 7 years in the treatment of the aging face. A survey was conducted to identify current practices in France.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To develop consensual practice recommendations for treating the aging upper- and mid-face with onabotulinum.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: Fifty-seven participants reviewed practices and techniques for each identified upper- and mid-face treatment indication. From data gathered during six regional conferences and from a questionnaire, consensual recommendations were developed.<br><br>RESULTS: General considerations, key treatment rules, injection specifics (dose, site, and techniques), associated procedures/treatments, and follow-up were defined for each indication, i.e., glabellar, horizontal forehead, crow's feet and bunny lines, lower eyelid rhytides, and eyebrow repositioning and reshaping. For the consensus participants, current onabotulinum use is a global, both preventive and corrective treatment. In France, judicious lowest effective dose, treatment of multiple sites and adjunctive treatment modalities, such as fillers and peels, lead to satisfactory results for clinicians and patients with a youthful, harmonious, animated and natural looking face.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Years of experience using onabotulinum result in sophisticated treatment approaches, more specific targeted injections, and a better understanding of facial aging, leading to satisfying therapeutic results for both patients and clinicians.}, }
@article {pmid21329011, year = {2010}, author = {Morgan, A}, title = {Schizophrenia, reification and deadened life.}, journal = {History of the human sciences}, volume = {23}, number = {5}, pages = {176-193}, doi = {10.1177/0952695110381673}, pmid = {21329011}, issn = {0952-6951}, mesh = {Attitude to Health/ethnology ; Cognition Disorders/ethnology/history ; *Culture ; History, 20th Century ; *Life ; *Psychiatry/education/history ; *Schizophrenia/ethnology/history ; *Science/education/history ; }, abstract = {Recent debates concerning the abolition of the schizophrenia label in psychiatry have focused upon problems with the scientific status of the concept. In this article, I argue that rather than attacking schizophrenia for its lack of scientific validity, we should focus on the conceptual history of this label. I reconstruct a specific tradition when exploring the conceptual history of schizophrenia. This is the concern with the question of the sense of life itself, conducted through the confrontation with schizophrenia as a form of life that does not live, or as Robert Jay Lifton termed it "lifeless life" (1979: 222-39). I conclude by arguing that the contemporary attempt to deconstruct or abolish the schizophrenia concept involves a fundamental shift in concern. The attempt both to normalize psychotic experiences, and to conceive them purely in terms of cognitive processes that can be mapped onto brain function, results in a fundamental move away from the attempt to understand the experience of madness.}, }
@article {pmid21328560, year = {2011}, author = {Heiss, RS and Cohen, AA and Bowman, R and Boughton, RK and Bridge, E and McGraw, KJ and Schoech, SJ}, title = {Circulating carotenoid concentrations are positively correlated with later clutch initiation in Florida Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens).}, journal = {Journal of experimental zoology. Part A, Ecological genetics and physiology}, volume = {315A}, number = {2}, pages = {101-110}, doi = {10.1002/jez.654}, pmid = {21328560}, issn = {1932-5231}, mesh = {Animals ; Carotenoids/*blood ; Corticosterone/blood ; Female ; Florida ; Male ; Passeriformes/*blood/*physiology ; Reproduction ; Uric Acid/blood ; Vitamin E/blood ; }, abstract = {Antioxidants play key roles in preventing free radical damage to various molecules, cells, and tissues, but it is not well understood how variation in antioxidant levels may relate to the reproductive success or health of wild animals. We explored the relationship between circulating antioxidant concentrations and both body condition and timing of reproduction in male and female Florida Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens), a cooperatively breeding passerine bird. We examined whether levels of uric acid, vitamin E, and carotenoids (all potentially important antioxidants) were linked to body condition and timing of reproduction, two measures that are directly related to reproductive success. Antioxidant concentrations were not correlated with body condition, but they were related to timing of first clutch initiation, though not always in the predicted direction. Elevated circulating levels of carotenoids were associated with delayed clutch initiation in female breeders. Relatively higher vitamin E levels in control birds were associated with earlier clutch initiation, whereas male breeders that received long-term food supplementation had elevated levels of vitamin E and delayed reproduction. Several potential explanations for the link between elevated levels of antioxidants and delayed clutch initiation are discussed. Separate explanations for each sex include, but are not limited to, oxidative stress as a result of territory defense efforts in males, different dietary regimes due to supplementation, and mobilized plasma antioxidants in females that were coping with a stressor.}, }
@article {pmid21325371, year = {2011}, author = {Fugard, AJ and Stewart, ME and Stenning, K}, title = {Visual/verbal-analytic reasoning bias as a function of self-reported autistic-like traits: a study of typically developing individuals solving Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Autism : the international journal of research and practice}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {327-340}, doi = {10.1177/1362361310371798}, pmid = {21325371}, issn = {1461-7005}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aptitude ; Attention ; Child ; Child Development Disorders, Pervasive/classification/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Problem Solving ; Psychometrics/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Reference Values ; Social Behavior ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {People with autism spectrum condition (ASC) perform well on Raven's matrices, a test which loads highly on the general factor in intelligence. However, the mechanisms supporting enhanced performance on the test are poorly understood. Evidence is accumulating that milder variants of the ASC phenotype are present in typically developing individuals, and that those who are further along the autistic-like trait spectrum show similar patterns of abilities and impairments as people with clinically diagnosed ASC. We investigated whether self-reported autistic-like traits in a university student sample, assessed using the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ; Baron-Cohen, Wheelwright, Skinner, et al., 2001), predict performance on Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices. We found that reporting poorer social skills but better attention switching predicted a higher Advanced matrices score overall. DeShon, Chan, and Weissbein (1995) classified Advanced matrices items as requiring a visuospatial, or a verbal-analytic strategy. We hypothesised that higher AQ scores would predict better performance on visuospatial items than on verbal-analytic items. This prediction was confirmed. These results are consistent with the continuum view and can be explained by the enhanced perceptual functioning theory of performance peaks in ASC. The results also confirm a new prediction about Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices performance in people with ASC.}, }
@article {pmid21324651, year = {2011}, author = {Giovagnoli, AR and Bell, B}, title = {Drawing from memory in focal epilepsy: a cognitive and neural perspective.}, journal = {Epilepsy research}, volume = {94}, number = {1-2}, pages = {69-74}, doi = {10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2011.01.004}, pmid = {21324651}, issn = {1872-6844}, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology ; Epilepsy, Temporal Lobe/*complications/*pathology ; Female ; Functional Laterality/physiology ; Humans ; Male ; Memory Disorders/classification/*etiology ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Regression Analysis ; Verbal Behavior/physiology ; }, abstract = {This study provides evidence of non-verbal cognitive functioning in temporal (TLE) and frontal lobe epilepsy (FLE) patients by exploring the mechanisms and neural correlates of drawing abilities. Sixty-six patients with left (n=32) or right TLE (n=34), 30 patients with left (n=18) or right FLE (n=12), and 30 healthy subjects were compared. The Drawing from Memory (DfM) test required participants to design 16 living or non-living items; the total score was the sum of all scores blindly provided by three judges who had to identify the drawings. The verbal and visual Pyramid and Palm Trees Test (PPTT), Raven Colored Progressive Matrices (Raven CPM), Cube Analysis, Token Test, Word Fluency, Card Classification, and Rey Complex Figure Test Copy trial (Rey CFC) assessed different verbal and non-verbal functions. Non-parametric statistics indicated that, with respect to controls, both TLE groups and the left FLE patients had significantly lower DfM scores. In the TLE group, hierarchical regression analyses revealed that the DfM score was predicted by the Raven CPM and PPTT scores, while, in the FLE group, it was predicted by the Rey CFC. Thus, drawing abilities may be impaired by TLE or FLE owing to different mechanisms that involve semantic or executive abilities. Implying cooperation between temporal and frontal areas that support these functions, DfM may be a sensitive index of integrity of cortical areas or neural pathways damaged by focal epilepsy.}, }
@article {pmid21323655, year = {2011}, author = {Park, FJ}, title = {Avian trichomoniasis: a study of lesions and relative prevalence in a variety of captive and free-living bird species as seen in an Australian avian practice.}, journal = {Australian veterinary journal}, volume = {89}, number = {3}, pages = {82-88}, doi = {10.1111/j.1751-0813.2010.00681.x}, pmid = {21323655}, issn = {1751-0813}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Australia/epidemiology ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/*pathology ; Birds ; Female ; Male ; Prevalence ; Retrospective Studies ; Species Specificity ; Trichomonas Infections/epidemiology/pathology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Studies of avian trichomoniasis in the literature are limited to some extent, often being confined to a single bird species or group of species within a bird Order. Some incidence studies have been reported for free-living birds, and occasionally for captive birds. Very few reports describe the prevalence and types of lesions seen for a wide range of bird species, especially from a clinical perspective.<br><br>METHODS: Retrospective study of avian practice records from a 10-year period. Emphasis on the types of presentations and relative prevalence of trichomoniasis in a variety of captive and free-living bird species encountered in Australian avian practice.<br><br>RESULTS: The occurrence of trichomoniasis in several novel species (lorikeets, corvids and a cuckoo species), plus its distinctive presentation in southern boobook owls (Ninox boobook), is documented.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Trichomoniasis should be a differential diagnosis for birds presenting with regurgitation or upper gastrointestinal abscesses, even if motile trichomonads are not found in wet preparations from crop washes or lesions.}, }
@article {pmid21312167, year = {2011}, author = {Horta-Puricelli, K and Dansilio, S}, title = {[Brixton Spatial Anticipation Test, executive function development and the relationship with the Tower of London].}, journal = {Revista de neurologia}, volume = {52}, number = {4}, pages = {211-220}, pmid = {21312167}, issn = {1576-6578}, mesh = {Child ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Space Perception/*physiology ; Visual Perception/physiology ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Rule induction and shifting abilities are among executive functions. The Brixton Spatial Anticipation Test (BSAT) was designed for the evaluation of this dimension in adult populations. There are no papers that explore its implementation during development, or its relations to other executive tasks and fluid intelligence.<br><br>AIM: To study the behavior in the BSAT of a primary school population (6 to 11 years), comparing it with the performance on a well-known executive task and a fluid intelligence test level.<br><br>SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Trough a descriptive-correlational, transversal design, the Tower of London (TOL), the BSAT and the Progressive Matrix Raven's Test (PMRT) were applied in 44 children of both sexes, from 1st to 6th grade (primary school), medium to high socio-economical stratum, from Montevideo. The BSAT is applied for the first time in normal children, so it's relevant for its knowledge.<br><br>RESULTS: A similar progressive and ascending performance was observed for both BSAT and TOL. Positive and significative correlations were found between BSAT and PMRT, specially with AB and B series. Positive but non significative correlations were observed between BSAT and TOL.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Executive functions follow a progressive and ascending pattern trough development in children, with light differences in relation to the executive component evaluated by each task. The factor 'g' of fluid intelligence, could be an important predictor of executive components taped by BSAT but not TOL.}, }
@article {pmid21308474, year = {2011}, author = {Kehmeier, S and Schloegl, C and Scheiber, IB and Weiss, BM}, title = {Early development of gaze following into distant space in juvenile Greylag geese (Anser anser).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {14}, number = {4}, pages = {477-485}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-011-0381-x}, pmid = {21308474}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Eye Movements/physiology ; Female ; *Fixation, Ocular/physiology ; *Geese/growth &amp; development/physiology ; Male ; Vision, Ocular/physiology ; }, abstract = {Visual co-orientation with another's gaze direction (gaze following) may provide important information about the location of food, social interactions or predators. Gaze following has been shown in a variety of mammals, but only in few bird species, and has not been tested in precocial birds at all. It has been suggested that gaze following is an anti-predator behaviour, and in Common ravens (Corvus corax) and rooks (C. frugilegus), it emerges shortly after fledging, at a time when young birds leave the predator-safe nest. However, if gaze following is adaptive, the developmental pattern should differ between altricial and precocial birds. Greylag geese (Anser anser) are highly social birds with a precocial development. Goslings move and feed independently within 24 h post-hatching, and they are highly vulnerable to aerial predators. We therefore predicted that greylag geese are capable of gaze following and that they develop this skill already pre-fledging. We experimentally tested 19 hand-raised greylag goslings for their ability to follow a conspecific's gaze when they were between 10 days and 6 weeks old. In line with our predictions, first responses were already detectable in 10-day-old goslings. Our results therefore not only demonstrate that greylag geese follow the gaze of conspecifics into distant space, but that they also develop this ability much earlier than altricial birds.}, }
@article {pmid21307048, year = {2011}, author = {Selva, N and Cortés-Avizanda, A and Lemus, JA and Blanco, G and Mueller, T and Heinrich, B and Donázar, JA}, title = {Stress associated with group living in a long-lived bird.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {7}, number = {4}, pages = {608-610}, pmid = {21307048}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Animals ; Corticosterone/analysis ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Social Environment ; Stress, Psychological/*etiology ; *Territoriality ; }, abstract = {Many long-lived avian species adopt life strategies that involve a gregarious way of life at juvenile and sub-adult stages and territoriality during adulthood. However, the potential associated costs of these life styles, such as stress, are poorly understood. We examined the effects of group living, sex and parasite load on the baseline concentration of faecal stress hormone (corticosterone) metabolites in a wild population of common ravens (Corvus corax). Corticosterone concentrations were significantly higher in non-breeding gregarious ravens than in territorial adults. Among territorial birds, males showed higher stress levels than their mates. Parasite burdens did not affect hormone levels. Our results suggest a key role of the social context in the stress profiles of the two population fractions, and that group living may be more energetically demanding than maintaining a territory. These findings have implications for understanding hormonal mechanisms under different life styles and may inspire further research on the link between hormone levels and selective pressures modulating gregarious and territorial strategies in long-lived birds.}, }
@article {pmid21306665, year = {2011}, author = {Luna, F and Tarelho, AR and Camargo, AM and Alonso, V}, title = {A study using demographic data of genetic drift and natural selection in an isolated Mediterranean community: Bayárcal (La Alpujarra, south-east Spain).}, journal = {Journal of biosocial science}, volume = {43}, number = {4}, pages = {401-411}, doi = {10.1017/S0021932011000046}, pmid = {21306665}, issn = {1469-7599}, mesh = {Chi-Square Distribution ; Demography ; *Family Characteristics ; Female ; Fertility/*genetics ; *Genetic Drift ; Geography ; Humans ; Mediterranean Region ; Pregnancy ; Retrospective Studies ; Selection, Genetic/*genetics ; Spain ; Statistics as Topic ; }, abstract = {Natural selection and genetic drift are two evolutionary mechanisms that can be analysed in human populations using their fertility and mortality patterns, and their reproductive size and isolation, respectively. This paper analyses the models of natural selection and genetic drift in Bayárcal, south-east Spain, and compares them with the observed models in the rest of the Alpujarran region. Demographic data were obtained from a sample of 77 families (48.45% of the population, with 547 inhabitants). The genetic drift and natural selection action was evaluated with the Coefficient of Breeding Isolation (CBI of Lasker and Kaplan) and Crow's index, respectively. The CBI (23.23/12.61) suggests that genetic drift is near to acting, and Crow's index (I=0.58) is slightly higher than that observed in the rest of La Alpujarra. Although the reproductive isolation of Bayárcal is not effective enough for genetic drift to act, it is near when marital migrants inside the Bayárcal valley are considered as a native population. The natural selection pattern is not different from that of the rest of La Alpujarra, but it tends towards the model of developing communities, where the demographic transition has not yet begun.}, }
@article {pmid21301037, year = {2011}, author = {Iwashita, H}, title = {[Crow-Fukase syndrome (POEMS syndrome)].}, journal = {Brain and nerve = Shinkei kenkyu no shinpo}, volume = {63}, number = {2}, pages = {131-139}, pmid = {21301037}, issn = {1881-6096}, mesh = {Fatal Outcome ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *POEMS Syndrome/diagnosis/pathology/physiopathology/therapy ; Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation ; Skin/pathology ; Thalidomide/therapeutic use ; Thoracic Vertebrae/pathology ; Transplantation, Autologous ; }, abstract = {In 1971, the author reported an autopsy case of a 48-year-old Japanese man with polyneuropathy, skin hyperpigmentation, diabetes mellitus, and monoclonal gammopathy. Previously, a total of 2 cases of solitary myeloma accompanied by polyneuropathy and endocrinological disorders have been reported by Fukase et al in 1968 and by Shimomori and Kusumoto in 1970 in Japan. The author's case is the first reported non-myeloma case where polyneuropathy associated with dermatoendocrionological changes and dysglobulinemia was observed. In 1956, Crow reported the British case of a 54-year-old man with osteosclerotic myeloma, polyneuropathy, edema, skin hyperpigmentation, clubbed fingers, white nails, and lymphadenopathy. The term Crow-Fukase syndrome was first used in 1984 in a study performed by Nakanishi et al that involved 102 Japanese patients. In 1986, Bardwick et al suggested the acronym POEMS-i.e., polyneuropathy (P), organomegaly (O), endocrinopathy (E), M-protein (M), and skin changes (S)-that represents the most constant and important features of this syndrome. In this paper, the author has described 3 cases that have been reported earlier by the author and has reviewed important Japanese and international literature related to this syndrome. Recent studies have revealed that the signs and symptoms of patients with this syndrome dramatically recover on using recently developed therapies for myeloma, such as autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation and thalidomide therapy.}, }
@article {pmid21295036, year = {2011}, author = {Rensel, MA and Schoech, SJ}, title = {Repeatability of baseline and stress-induced corticosterone levels across early life stages in the Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens).}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {59}, number = {4}, pages = {497-502}, doi = {10.1016/j.yhbeh.2011.01.010}, pmid = {21295036}, issn = {1095-6867}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Corticosterone/*blood ; Crows/*blood/growth &amp; development ; Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System/metabolism ; Pituitary-Adrenal System/metabolism ; Radioimmunoassay ; Reproducibility of Results ; Reproduction/*physiology ; *Stress, Physiological ; }, abstract = {Recent studies have posited that the pattern of glucocorticoid secretion within an individual represents a stable, fixed physiological trait. To test this hypothesis, we assessed the repeatability of baseline and stress-induced corticosterone (CORT) secretion across developmental stages and years in Florida scrub-jays. We sampled individuals from multiple cohorts repeatedly from the age of 11 days post-hatch up to 4 years of age. We found a significant degree of repeatability within individuals in stress-induced corticosterone levels, i.e., the amount of hormone secreted during a standardized stress protocol (corrected integrated corticosterone). However, baseline corticosterone levels were not statistically repeatable, although there was some indication that nestling levels predicted levels at 1 year of age. The results of this study indicate that stress-induced CORT levels are consistent within individual scrub-jays, and the degree to which a young jay mounts an acute stress response appears to be somewhat "set" by the age of nutritional independence. Thus stress-induced corticosterone secretion appears to be a stable, repeatable trait within individuals and as such may be subject to natural selection.}, }
@article {pmid21291887, year = {2011}, author = {Rensel, MA and Wilcoxen, TE and Schoech, SJ}, title = {Corticosterone, brood size, and hatch order in free-living Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) nestlings.}, journal = {General and comparative endocrinology}, volume = {171}, number = {2}, pages = {197-202}, doi = {10.1016/j.ygcen.2011.01.011}, pmid = {21291887}, issn = {1095-6840}, mesh = {Animals ; Corticosterone/*blood ; Female ; Male ; Nesting Behavior ; Passeriformes/*blood ; Radioimmunoassay ; }, abstract = {It is well known that variation in developmental conditions can have profound effects upon lifetime fitness. In altricial avian species, nestlings undergo a substantial portion of development in the nest after hatching, often in the presence of nest-mates. This can result in the formation of brood hierarchies based on age, size, and competitive ability. Measurement of baseline corticosterone (CORT) levels in developing birds may provide a means to assess whether individuals within a brood experience stress due to sibling competition or nutritional state. However, few studies have attempted to correlate corticosterone concentrations with brood hierarchies in free-living, developing birds. We investigated the degree to which corticosterone levels in nestling Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) were predicted by brood size, hatching order, and body mass. Nestling corticosterone levels were inversely correlated with body mass but did not differ among brood sizes. Within broods of two, second-hatched nestlings had lower CORT than first-hatched nestlings, although there was no effect of hatch order in broods of three or four nestlings. The results of this study suggest that conditions within the nest, particularly those associated with within-brood hierarchies, are manifested through differential body condition and nestling corticosterone secretion. The consequences of this variation in nestling corticosterone are unknown, but development of the adult phenotype, as well as life-long survival, may be impacted.}, }
@article {pmid21284834, year = {2011}, author = {Wolf, JB and Bryk, J}, title = {General lack of global dosage compensation in ZZ/ZW systems? Broadening the perspective with RNA-seq.}, journal = {BMC genomics}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {91}, pmid = {21284834}, issn = {1471-2164}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Crows/*genetics ; Dosage Compensation, Genetic/genetics ; Female ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; Male ; Sex Chromosomes/*genetics ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Species with heteromorphic sex chromosomes face the challenge of large-scale imbalance in gene dose. Microarray-based studies in several independent male heterogametic XX/XY systems suggest that dosage compensation mechanisms are in place to mitigate the detrimental effects of gene dose differences. However, recent genomic research on female heterogametic ZZ/ZW systems has generated surprising results. In two bird species and one lepidopteran no evidence for a global dosage compensating mechanism has been found. The recent advent of massively parallel RNA sequencing now opens up the possibility to gauge the generality of this observation with a broader phylogenetic sampling. It further allows assessing the validity of microarray-based inference on dosage compensation with a novel technology.<br><br>RESULTS: We here exemplify this approach using massively parallel sequencing on barcoded individuals of a bird species, the European crow (Corvus corone), where previously no genetic resources were available. Testing for Z-linkage with quantitative PCR (qPCR,) we first establish that orthology with distantly related species (chicken, zebra finch) can be used as a good predictor for chromosomal affiliation of a gene. We then use a digital measure of gene expression (RNA-seq) on brain transcriptome and confirm a global lack of dosage compensation on the Z chromosome. RNA-seq estimates of male-to-female (m:f) expression difference on the Z compare well to previous microarray-based estimates in birds and lepidopterans. The data further lends support that an up-regulation of female Z-linked genes conveys partial compensation and suggest a relationship between sex-bias and absolute expression level of a gene. Correlation of sex-biased gene expression on the Z chromosome across all three bird species further suggests that the degree of compensation has been partly conserved across 100 million years of avian evolution.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This work demonstrates that the study of dosage compensation has become amenable to species where previously no genetic resources were available. Massively parallele transcriptome sequencing allows re-assessing the degree of dosage compensation with a novel tool in well-studies species and, in addition, gain valuable insights into the generality of mechanisms across independent taxonomic group for both the XX/XY and ZZ/ZW system.}, }
@article {pmid21134046, year = {2010}, author = {Prager, W and Wissmüller, E and Kollhorst, B and Williams, S and Zschocke, I}, title = {Comparison of two botulinum toxin type A preparations for treating crow's feet: a split-face, double-blind, proof-of-concept study.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {36 Suppl 4}, number = {}, pages = {2155-2160}, doi = {10.1111/j.1524-4725.2010.01798.x}, pmid = {21134046}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Double-Blind Method ; Eye ; Female ; Humans ; Injections ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This is the first double-blind, randomized, proof-of-concept study to compare the clinical effectiveness of botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA) free of complexing proteins with a BoNTA complex (BTXCo) in the treatment of crow's feet.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHOD: Twelve U of each product were compared in an intra-individual study in 21 participants with a facial wrinkle scale (FWS) score of 2 to 3. Evaluations were done for up to 4 months. Subjects with an improvement of at least 1 point on the FWS were considered responders.<br><br>RESULTS: One month after treatment, the percentage of responders was slightly higher for the BoNTA side (95%) than the BTXCo side (90%). After 4 months, both sides still showed good efficacy, with an 84% response rate and greater than 30% FWS reduction (no statistically significant difference between the products). After 1 month, FWS score at rest was approximately 66% lower for BoNTA, versus 63% lower for BTXCo. After 4 months, FWS reduction was approximately 50%.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Both botulinum toxin A products displayed high efficacy and good tolerability at a dose ratio of 1:1, with no statistically significant differences between them. The high response rates observed after 4 months suggest a good effectiveness beyond this observation period.}, }
@article {pmid21271427, year = {2011}, author = {Simonds, VW and Rudd, RE and Sequist, TD and Colditz, G}, title = {An assessment of printed diabetes-prevention materials available to a Northern Plains tribe.}, journal = {Journal of health communication}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {431-447}, doi = {10.1080/10810730.2010.546482}, pmid = {21271427}, issn = {1087-0415}, mesh = {Comprehension ; Diabetes Mellitus/*prevention &amp; control ; *Health Literacy ; Humans ; Indians, North American/*education ; Montana ; *Pamphlets ; Patient Education as Topic/*standards ; Reading ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to characterize the literacy demands of print materials used to encourage diabetes prevention on the Crow Reservation. Diabetes-prevention materials included pamphlets, booklets, and fact sheets provided to Crow people. Readability was assessed using the SMOG formula. Diabetes related vocabulary was assessed to determine whether medical/scientific words were used and if they were defined. Numeracy demand was assessed by counting the number of times different numeracy concepts were used in each material. Lists, charts, and graphs were assessed using the PMOSE/IKIRSCH tool. We found that materials were written at a readability level higher than recommended. Across all materials, vocabulary terms were used often but not always defined. Numeric terms were not often used, but when used they were not defined. Most of the materials required the reader to read numbers or count. However, overall numeracy demand was relatively low. The PMOSE/IKIRSCH scores for materials were adequate. The authors found a mismatch between the level of skills required in some of the materials and the skills of the average person, including adults on the Crow Reservation. This study highlights the need for designing materials specifically for the intended audience, including rigorous pilot testing of materials.}, }
@article {pmid21270383, year = {2011}, author = {Pongcharoen, T and DiGirolamo, AM and Ramakrishnan, U and Winichagoon, P and Flores, R and Martorell, R}, title = {Long-term effects of iron and zinc supplementation during infancy on cognitive function at 9 y of age in northeast Thai children: a follow-up study.}, journal = {The American journal of clinical nutrition}, volume = {93}, number = {3}, pages = {636-643}, doi = {10.3945/ajcn.110.002220}, pmid = {21270383}, issn = {1938-3207}, mesh = {Child ; Child Development ; Cognition Disorders/epidemiology/*prevention &amp; control ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Dietary Supplements ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Infant ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Iron, Dietary/*administration &amp; dosage ; Male ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Thailand/epidemiology ; Zinc/*administration &amp; dosage ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Iron and zinc are important micronutrients for child growth and development. One would expect that iron and zinc supplementation in infancy would affect long-term cognitive development and school achievement, but this has not been evaluated.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: We investigated the effect of iron or zinc supplementation or both during infancy on cognitive performance 8 y later.<br><br>DESIGN: A follow-up study was performed in 560 children aged 9 y or 92% of those who had participated in a randomized controlled trial involving 4 groups who received daily iron, zinc, iron plus zinc, or a placebo at 4-6 mo of age for 6 mo. Cognitive performance was assessed by using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Third Edition (Thai version), the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (CPM), and school performance tests. General linear mixed models were used to assess long-term effects.<br><br>RESULTS: No significant differences in any of the outcomes at 9 y of age were observed at follow-up between the 4 groups. Mean intelligence quotients ranged across groups from 92.9 to 93.7 for full scale, 93.9-95.4 for verbal, and 93.1-94.0 for performance. The Raven's CPM score ranged from 21.4 to 22.4.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Supplementation with iron or zinc or both during infancy does not lead to long-term cognitive improvement in 9-y-old children. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00824304.}, }
@article {pmid21267451, year = {2011}, author = {Biedenweg, TA and Parsons, MH and Fleming, PA and Blumstein, DT}, title = {Sounds scary? Lack of habituation following the presentation of novel sounds.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {6}, number = {1}, pages = {e14549}, pmid = {21267451}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {*Acoustic Stimulation ; Animals ; Auditory Perception/physiology ; Australia ; Crows ; Habituation, Psychophysiologic/*physiology ; Macropodidae ; Sound ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Animals typically show less habituation to biologically meaningful sounds than to novel signals. We might therefore expect that acoustic deterrents should be based on natural sounds.<br><br>METHODOLOGY: We investigated responses by western grey kangaroos (Macropus fulignosus) towards playback of natural sounds (alarm foot stomps and Australian raven (Corvus coronoides) calls) and artificial sounds (faux snake hiss and bull whip crack). We then increased rate of presentation to examine whether animals would habituate. Finally, we varied frequency of playback to investigate optimal rates of delivery.<br><br>PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Nine behaviors clustered into five Principal Components. PC factors 1 and 2 (animals alert or looking, or hopping and moving out of area) accounted for 36% of variance. PC factor 3 (eating cessation, taking flight, movement out of area) accounted for 13% of variance. Factors 4 and 5 (relaxing, grooming and walking; 12 and 11% of variation, respectively) discontinued upon playback. The whip crack was most evocative; eating was reduced from 75% of time spent prior to playback to 6% following playback (post alarm stomp: 32%, raven call: 49%, hiss: 75%). Additionally, 24% of individuals took flight and moved out of area (50 m radius) in response to the whip crack (foot stomp: 0%, raven call: 8% and 4%, hiss: 6%). Increasing rate of presentation (12x/min &#xd7;2 min) caused 71% of animals to move out of the area.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: The bull whip crack, an artificial sound, was as effective as the alarm stomp at eliciting aversive behaviors. Kangaroos did not fully habituate despite hearing the signal up to 20x/min. Highest rates of playback did not elicit the greatest responses, suggesting that 'more is not always better'. Ultimately, by utilizing both artificial and biological sounds, predictability may be masked or offset, so that habituation is delayed and more effective deterrents may be produced.}, }
@article {pmid21260978, year = {2010}, author = {Bagotskaia, MS and Smirnova, AA and Zorina, ZA}, title = {[Corvidae are able to understand the logical structure in string-pulling tasks].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {60}, number = {5}, pages = {543-551}, pmid = {21260978}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; *Problem Solving ; Psychomotor Performance ; Species Specificity ; Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The ability of the Corvidae to understand the logical structure in string-pulling tasks was studied in a set of experiments with varied position of strings. It was demonstrated that some hooded crows (Corvus cornix L.) and common ravens (Corvus corax L.) successfully completed the tasks where the strings were not intersected but placed so that the bait was positioned opposite the forepart of the empty string. Hooded crows also solved the task where the baits were attached to both strings, but one of the strings was disrupted. The task with two intersected strings where the bait was positioned opposite the forepart of the empty string was not solved by the crows. The results suggest the ability of both examined species to grasp the logical structure of such kind of tasks.}, }
@article {pmid21257296, year = {2011}, author = {Marret, S and Chollat, C and Levèque, C and Marpeau, L}, title = {[Prevention of cerebral palsy using magnesium sulfate in pre-term newborns].}, journal = {Archives de pediatrie : organe officiel de la Societe francaise de pediatrie}, volume = {18}, number = {3}, pages = {324-330}, doi = {10.1016/j.arcped.2010.12.013}, pmid = {21257296}, issn = {1769-664X}, mesh = {Animals ; Cerebral Palsy/*prevention &amp; control ; Female ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; Infant, Premature ; Magnesium Sulfate/*therapeutic use ; Meta-Analysis as Topic ; Models, Animal ; Neuroprotective Agents/*therapeutic use ; Obstetric Labor, Premature/prevention &amp; control ; Pregnancy ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; }, abstract = {This review concentrates on the best evidence emerging in recent years on cerebral palsy prevention by administration of magnesium sulfate in mothers at risk of pre-term birth before 33-34 weeks' gestation. It was shown in the Cochrane database and in 3 meta-analyses of 5 randomized trials (Magpie Trial [neuroprotection of the pre-eclamptic mother], MagNet [neuroprotection/other intent: tocolysis], ActoMgSO(4) [neuroprotection], PreMag [neuroprotection], and Beam [neuroprotection]) that prenatal low-dose magnesium sulfate given to mothers at risk of pre-term birth has no severe deleterious effects in mothers and does not increase pediatric mortality in very pre-term infants. Moreover, it has significant neuroprotective effects on the occurrence of cerebral palsy at 2 years of age (relative risk, 0.69; 95% confidence interval, 0.54-0.87) and, in the neuroprotection subgroup, on the combined outcome of pediatric mortality or cerebral palsy (relative risk: 0.85; 95% confidence interval: 0.74-0.98). The number needed to treat (NTT) to prevent 1 case of cerebral palsy was 63 (95% CI, 39-172) and the NTT for an extra survivor free of cerebral palsy in the neuroprotection subgroup was 42 (95% CI, 22-357), justifying that magnesium sulfate should be discussed as a stand-alone treatment or as part of a combination treatment.}, }
@article {pmid21249510, year = {2011}, author = {Cheke, LG and Bird, CD and Clayton, NS}, title = {Tool-use and instrumental learning in the Eurasian jay (Garrulus glandarius).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {441-455}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-011-0379-4}, pmid = {21249510}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; //Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Conditioning, Operant ; Cues ; Reward ; *Songbirds/physiology ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Recent research with Rooks has demonstrated impressive tool-using abilities in captivity despite this species' classification as a non-tool-user in the wild. Here, we explored whether another non-tool-using corvid, the Eurasian Jay, would be capable of similar feats and investigated the relative contributions of causal knowledge and instrumental conditioning to the birds' performance on the tasks. Five jays were tested on a variety of tasks involving water displacement. Two birds reliably interacted with the apparatuses. In these tasks, both birds showed a preference for inserting stones into a tube containing liquid over a tube containing a solid or a baited 'empty' tube and also for inserting sinkable items over non-sinkable items into a tube of water. To investigate the contribution of instrumental conditioning, subjects were then tested on a series of tasks in which different cues were made available. It was found that, in the absence of any apparent causal cues, these birds showed a clear preference for the rewarded tube when the food incrementally approached with every stone insertion, but not when it simply "appeared" after the correct number of stone insertions. However, it was found that subjects did not prefer to insert stones into a tube rewarded by the incremental approach of food if the available causal cues violated the expectations created by existing causal knowledge (i.e. were counter-intuitive). An analysis of the proportion of correct and incorrect stone insertions made in each trial across tasks offering different types of information revealed that subjects were substantially more successful in experiments in which causal cues were available, but that rate of learning was comparable in all experiments. We suggest that these results indicate that Eurasian jays use the incremental approach of the food reward as a conditioned reinforcer allowing them to solve tasks involving raising the water level and that this learning is facilitated by the presence of causal cues.}, }
@article {pmid21244117, year = {2011}, author = {Wiley, J and Jarosz, AF and Cushen, PJ and Colflesh, GJ}, title = {New rule use drives the relation between working memory capacity and Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Learning, memory, and cognition}, volume = {37}, number = {1}, pages = {256-263}, doi = {10.1037/a0021613}, pmid = {21244117}, issn = {1939-1285}, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Pattern Recognition, Visual/*physiology ; Photic Stimulation ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Regression Analysis ; *Statistics as Topic ; Students ; Universities ; }, abstract = {The correlation between individual differences in working memory capacity and performance on the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM) is well documented yet poorly understood. The present work proposes a new explanation: that the need to use a new combination of rules on RAPM problems drives the relation between performance and working memory capacity scores. Evidence for this account is supported by an item-based analysis of performance during standard administration of the RAPM and an experiment that manipulates the need to use new rule combinations across 2 subsets of RAPM items. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved).}, }
@article {pmid21237562, year = {2011}, author = {Ding, Y and YanhuiGao,  and Sun, H and Han, H and Wang, W and Ji, X and Liu, X and Sun, D}, title = {The relationships between low levels of urine fluoride on children's intelligence, dental fluorosis in endemic fluorosis areas in Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia, China.}, journal = {Journal of hazardous materials}, volume = {186}, number = {2-3}, pages = {1942-1946}, doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2010.12.097}, pmid = {21237562}, issn = {1873-3336}, mesh = {Child ; China/epidemiology ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Female ; Fluorides/*urine ; Fluorosis, Dental/diagnosis/*epidemiology/*psychology ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Regression Analysis ; Water Supply/analysis ; }, abstract = {There has been public concern about children's intellectual performance at high levels of fluoride exposure, but few studies provide data directly to the question of whether low fluoride exposure levels less than 3.0 mg/L in drinking water adversely associated with children's intelligence. In this survey, we investigated the effects of low fluoride exposure on children's intelligence and dental fluorosis. 331 children aged from 7 to 14 were randomly recruited from four sites in Hulunbuir City, China. Intelligence was assessed using Combined Raven Test-The Rural in China while dental fluorosis was diagnosed with Dean's index. Mean value of fluoride in drinking water was 1.31±1.05 mg/L (range 0.24-2.84). Urine fluoride was inversely associated with IQ in the multiple linear regression model when children's age as a covariate variable was taken into account (P<0.0001). Each increase in 1 mg/L of urine fluoride associated with 0.59-point decrease in IQ (P=0.0226). Meanwhile, there was a dose-response relationship between urine fluoride and dental fluorosis (P<0.0001). In conclusion, our study suggested that low levels of fluoride exposure in drinking water had negative effects on children's intelligence and dental health and confirmed the dose-response relationships between urine fluoride and IQ scores as well as dental fluorosis.}, }
@article {pmid21228204, year = {2011}, author = {Jackson, BE and Dial, KP}, title = {Scaling of mechanical power output during burst escape flight in the Corvidae.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {214}, number = {Pt 3}, pages = {452-461}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.046789}, pmid = {21228204}, issn = {1477-9145}, mesh = {Animals ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Body Size ; Electromyography ; *Energy Metabolism ; Flight, Animal/*physiology ; Locomotion ; Muscle Contraction/physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Pectoralis Muscles/*physiology ; Wings, Animal/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; }, abstract = {Avian locomotor burst performance (e.g. acceleration, maneuverability) decreases with increasing body size and has significant implications for the survivorship, ecology and evolution of birds. However, the underlying mechanism of this scaling relationship has been elusive. The most cited mechanistic hypothesis posits that wingbeat frequency alone limits maximal muscular mass-specific power output. Because wingbeat frequency decreases with body size, it may explain the often-observed negative scaling of flight performance. To test this hypothesis we recorded in vivo muscular mechanical power from work-loop mechanics using surgically implanted sonomicrometry (measuring muscle length change) and strain gauges (measuring muscle force) in four species of Corvidae performing burst take-off and vertical escape flight. The scale relationships derived for the four species suggest that maximum muscle-mass-specific power scales slightly negatively with pectoralis muscle mass (M(-0.18)(m), 95% CI: -0.42 to 0.05), but less than the scaling of wingbeat frequency (M(-0.29)(m), 95% CI: -0.37 to -0.23). Mean muscle stress was independent of muscle mass (M(-0.02)(m), 95% CI: -0.20 to 0.19), but total muscle strain (percent length change) scaled positively (M(0.12)(m), 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.18), which is consistent with previous results from ground birds (Order Galliformes). These empirical results lend minimal support to the power-limiting hypothesis, but also suggest that muscle function changes with size to partially compensate for detrimental effects of size on power output, even within closely related species. Nevertheless, additional data for other taxa are needed to substantiate these scaling patterns.}, }
@article {pmid21223969, year = {2011}, author = {van Nieuwpoort, IC and Deijen, JB and Curfs, LM and Drent, ML}, title = {The relationship between IGF-I concentration, cognitive function and quality of life in adults with Prader-Willi syndrome.}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {59}, number = {4}, pages = {444-450}, doi = {10.1016/j.yhbeh.2011.01.001}, pmid = {21223969}, issn = {1095-6867}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Insulin-Like Growth Factor I/*metabolism ; Intelligence/physiology ; Male ; Memory/physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Prader-Willi Syndrome/*blood/*psychology ; Quality of Life/*psychology ; Reaction Time/physiology ; }, abstract = {Mental retardation is one of the clinical characteristics of Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) and in part of the patients growth hormone deficiency is demonstrable. Cognitive function seems to be influenced by insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I); however, little is known about cognitive function in relation to IGF-I levels in PWS adults. The aim of the present study was to evaluate cognitive function in adult PWS patients in comparison to healthy siblings and to investigate whether there is a correlation between cognitive function and IGF-I levels. Anthropometric measurements, IGF-I levels, quality of life (QoL), Appetite Assessment Score, IQ (GIT and Raven) and cognitive function (by four subtests of the Cambridge Neuropsychological Automated Testing Battery, CANTAB) were evaluated in PWS patients and their healthy siblings served as control group. PWS patients had significantly lower IGF-I levels, IQ and QoL when compared to controls. Reaction times were longer and performance was worse on CANTAB subtests in PWS adults. IGF-I on one hand and IQ, Appetite Assessment Score and cognitive performance on the other hand seem to be correlated in PWS patients. In conclusion, IGF-I levels, IQ and QoL are significantly lower in PWS subjects when compared to healthy siblings. In PWS adults, temporal as well as prefrontal cognitive functions are impaired. Higher IGF-I levels appear to be related to better intellectual skills and faster temporal memory processing in PWS patients.}, }
@article {pmid21197037, year = {2010}, author = {O'Faolain, L and Schulz, SA and Beggs, DM and White, TP and Spasenović, M and Kuipers, L and Morichetti, F and Melloni, A and Mazoyer, S and Hugonin, JP and Lalanne, P and Krauss, TF}, title = {Loss engineered slow light waveguides.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {18}, number = {26}, pages = {27627-27638}, doi = {10.1364/OE.18.027627}, pmid = {21197037}, issn = {1094-4087}, mesh = {Computer Simulation ; Computer-Aided Design ; Equipment Design ; Equipment Failure Analysis ; Light ; *Models, Theoretical ; Refractometry/*instrumentation ; Scattering, Radiation ; Surface Plasmon Resonance/*instrumentation ; }, abstract = {Slow light devices such as photonic crystal waveguides (PhCW) and coupled resonator optical waveguides (CROW) have much promise for optical signal processing applications and a number of successful demonstrations underpinning this promise have already been made. Most of these applications are limited by propagation losses, especially for higher group indices. These losses are caused by technological imperfections ("extrinsic loss") that cause scattering of light from the waveguide mode. The relationship between this loss and the group velocity is complex and until now has not been fully understood. Here, we present a comprehensive explanation of the extrinsic loss mechanisms in PhC waveguides and address some misconceptions surrounding loss and slow light that have arisen in recent years. We develop a theoretical model that accurately describes the loss spectra of PhC waveguides. One of the key insights of the model is that the entire hole contributes coherently to the scattering process, in contrast to previous models that added up the scattering from short sections incoherently. As a result, we have already realised waveguides with significantly lower losses than comparable photonic crystal waveguides as well as achieving propagation losses, in units of loss per unit time (dB/ns) that are even lower than those of state-of-the-art coupled resonator optical waveguides based on silicon photonic wires. The model will enable more advanced designs with further loss reduction within existing technological constraints.}, }
@article {pmid21196856, year = {2011}, author = {Aguirre-Zorzano, LA and Rodríguez-Andrés, C and Estefanía-Fresco, R and Fernández-Jiménez, A}, title = {Immediate temporary restoration of single-tooth implants: Prospective clinical study.}, journal = {Medicina oral, patologia oral y cirugia bucal}, volume = {16}, number = {6}, pages = {e794-9}, pmid = {21196856}, issn = {1698-6946}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; *Dental Implants, Single-Tooth ; *Dental Restoration, Temporary ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Prospective Studies ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: The goal of this study is to assess the survival, marginal bone loss and complications around single-tooth implants on which immediate provisionalization was carried out.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: 78 implants were placed in 57 patients: 56 after extraction and 22 in healed sockets. Immediately after surgery provisional crows were delivered without contacts in both centric and excursive jaw movements. The final crowns were inserted between 3 to 6 months later. During the study there were 3 x-rays taken per patient. The marginal bone loss was measured and complications were recorded. The statistical analysis of the data was carried out with the STATA 10&#xae; software.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean duration of the study was 92 weeks. Survival rate was 98.7% (1 failure out of 78 implants). The mean mesial bone loss was 0.2 &#xb1; 0.4 mm and the mean distal bone loss was 0.2 &#xb1; 0.4 mm. No statistically significant differences were found between immediate or delayed implants. 67 implants showed a bone loss less than 1 mm, and 36 did not show any bone loss at all. The main complications were the uncementing of the crowns (11 crowns), the presence of cement remnants (10 crowns) and the development of apical lesions around implants (6 implants).<br><br>CONCLUSION: With the limitations of this study, it can be concluded by saying that immediate restoration with single-tooth implants and provisional crowns may be considered as a predictable technique.}, }
@article {pmid21195645, year = {2011}, author = {Endenburg, N and van Lith, HA}, title = {The influence of animals on the development of children.}, journal = {Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997)}, volume = {190}, number = {2}, pages = {208-214}, doi = {10.1016/j.tvjl.2010.11.020}, pmid = {21195645}, issn = {1532-2971}, mesh = {*Animal Assisted Therapy ; Animals ; Attention Deficit and Disruptive Behavior Disorders/psychology/therapy ; Child ; Child Behavior Disorders/psychology/*therapy ; *Child Development ; Child Development Disorders, Pervasive/psychology/*therapy ; *Human-Animal Bond ; Humans ; }, abstract = {There is a widespread belief that interaction with an animal is beneficial for the development of children, and several studies (most with methodological shortcomings) have investigated the influence of (companion) animals on the social-emotional and cognitive development of children. In this article, the 1984 model of Professor Jay Belsky has been used to describe which variables influence the development of children and how the companion animal-child interaction influences these variables. The value of the AAA/AAT (Animal Assisted Activities/Animal Assisted Therapy) programmes in children with a wide variety of clinical and social problems, such as behaviour problems and autistic spectrum symptoms, is discussed. The findings suggest that (companion) animals positively influence children's development and have a valuable role in therapy.}, }
@article {pmid22524072, year = {2011}, author = {Aminabadi, NA and Vafaei, A and Erfanparast, L and Oskouei, SG and Jamali, Z}, title = {Impact of pictorial story on pain perception, situational anxiety and behavior in children: a cognitive-behavioral schema.}, journal = {The Journal of clinical pediatric dentistry}, volume = {36}, number = {2}, pages = {127-132}, doi = {10.17796/jcpd.36.2.3163251527508338}, pmid = {22524072}, issn = {1053-4628}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Chi-Square Distribution ; Child ; *Child Behavior ; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/*methods ; Dental Anxiety/*prevention &amp; control ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Manifest Anxiety Scale ; Pain Measurement ; *Pain Perception ; Patient Education as Topic/*methods ; *Reading ; }, abstract = {AIM: The present study evaluated the effect of listening to a pictorial story about going to the dentist on pain perception, situational anxiety and behavioral feedback during dental treatment in pediatric dental patients.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: Eighty, 6-7-year-old children were included The childhood anxiety-related disorders using Screen for Child Anxiety Related Disorders (SCARED) Parent Version scale and intelligence quotient using Raven's Progressive Matrices were evaluated The subjects were randomly assigned to two groups, listening to a pictorial story about going to a dentist (test), or listening to a pictorial story about going to a barbershop (control). A dental treatment was performed on each subject, during which, behavior was assessed using Sound, Eye, and Motor Scale. Pain perception and situational anxiety were then assessed using Wong-Baker Fasces Pain Rating Scale and Faces version of the Modified Child Dental Anxiety Scale, respectively.<br><br>RESULTS: There was a significant decrease in pain perception (P=0.02) and situational anxiety (P<0.001) in the test group. In addition, the test intervention significantly improved children behavioral feedback during dental treatment (P<0.001).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Preparation of children with pictorial story can be effective in decreasing pain perception and situational anxiety as well as improving behavior during dental treatment.}, }
@article {pmid21184124, year = {2011}, author = {Wimpenny, JH and Weir, AA and Kacelnik, A}, title = {New Caledonian crows use tools for non-foraging activities.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {459-464}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-010-0366-1}, pmid = {21184124}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {BB/C517392/1//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows/physiology ; Exploratory Behavior ; Female ; Male ; *Tool Use Behavior/physiology ; }, abstract = {Tool use is of great interest for cognitive research, largely because it can be particularly revealing about the underlying information processing mechanisms. Tool use that is inflexible or requires extensive experience to change, and that is only addressed towards specific targets such as food, is not likely to reflect unusual or particularly complex cognition. On the contrary, if tools are employed flexibly and for a variety of innovative purposes, then conventional combinations of inherited predispositions and associative learning are challenged and interesting questions emerge. Since New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides) are especially adept at using and making tools for food extraction, we decided to examine their ability to generalise this to other contexts. We recorded how five pairs of New Caledonian crows interacted with novel objects that were not associated with food. We observed eight occasions in which the first contact with the novel object was mediated by a tool, suggesting that the function of the tool was for exploration. This is the first report of non-foraging tool use in New Caledonian crows, and it implies that the cognitive operations controlling tool-oriented behaviour in this species are more general than previously thought.}, }
@article {pmid21174936, year = {2010}, author = {Rahman, ML and Lee, E and Aoyama, M and Sugita, S}, title = {Light and electron microscopy study of the pecten oculi of the jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Okajimas folia anatomica Japonica}, volume = {87}, number = {3}, pages = {75-83}, doi = {10.2535/ofaj.87.75}, pmid = {21174936}, issn = {0030-154X}, mesh = {Animals ; Basement Membrane/ultrastructure ; Capillaries/cytology/metabolism/*ultrastructure ; Collagen Type I/metabolism ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Female ; Male ; Melanocytes/*ultrastructure ; Microscopy, Electron, Transmission ; Retinal Vessels/cytology/metabolism/*ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {In this study, the pecten oculi of a diurnally active bird, the Japanese jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos), was examined using light and electron microscopy. In this species, the pecten consisted of 24-25 highly vascularized pleats held together apically by a heavily pigmented 'bridge' and projected freely into the vitreous body in the ventral part of the eye cup. Ascending and descending blood vessels of varying caliber, together with a profuse network of capillaries, essentially constituted the vascular framework of the pecten. A distinct distribution of melanosomes was discernible on the pecten, the concentration being highest at its apical end, moderate at the crest of the pleats and lowest at the basal and lateral margins. Overlying and within the vascular network, a close association between blood vessels and melanocytes was evident. It is conjectured that such an association may have evolved to augment the structural reinforcement of this nutritive organ in order to keep it firmly erectile within the gel-like vitreous. Such erectility may be an essential prerequisite for its optimal functioning as well as in its overt use as a protective shield against the effects of ultraviolet light, which otherwise might lead to damage of the pectineal vessels.}, }
@article {pmid21170733, year = {2011}, author = {Gabel, S}, title = {Power in the role of the medical director: what it is and how to get more.}, journal = {Administration and policy in mental health}, volume = {38}, number = {3}, pages = {211-214}, doi = {10.1007/s10488-010-0317-9}, pmid = {21170733}, issn = {1573-3289}, mesh = {Chief Executive Officers, Hospital/*psychology ; Community Mental Health Centers/organization &amp; administration ; Humans ; Leadership ; Mental Health Services/*organization &amp; administration ; Physician Executives/*psychology ; Physicians ; *Power, Psychological ; Psychiatric Department, Hospital/organization &amp; administration ; Psychiatry/organization &amp; administration ; }, abstract = {The formal leadership of mental health care organizations commonly resides in an executive director, who may or may not have had clinical training. The medical director is a psychiatrist who reports to the executive director. For some, this arrangement suggests that the medical director lacks or has lost power in the organization. This paper examines more specifically the types of power available to the medical director using French &amp; Raven (1959) and Raven (2008) bases of power framework. The executive director/medical director relationship can be thought of as a relationship between individuals holding formal and informal power, respectively. Although medical directors lack formal or positional power, they potentially have and can gain more informal power based on their recognized clinical/medical expertise, their personal presence and an assertive involvement and focus on the organizational mission.}, }
@article {pmid21165002, year = {2010}, author = {Cooper, ML and Gupta, G and Schneider, MA and Green, WM and Assefa, S and Xia, F and Vlasov, YA and Mookherjea, S}, title = {Statistics of light transport in 235-ring silicon coupled-resonator optical waveguides.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {18}, number = {25}, pages = {26505-26516}, doi = {10.1364/OE.18.026505}, pmid = {21165002}, issn = {1094-4087}, mesh = {Computer Simulation ; Computer-Aided Design ; Data Interpretation, Statistical ; Equipment Design ; Equipment Failure Analysis ; Light ; Models, Statistical ; Refractometry/*instrumentation ; Scattering, Radiation ; *Transducers ; }, abstract = {In contrast to recent reports of localization-impaired transport in long slow-light waveguides, we demonstrate light transport in silicon coupled-resonator optical waveguides (CROWs) consisting of up to 235 coupled microrings without localization over frequency bands that are several hundred gigahertz wide. Furthermore, from the unique statistical signatures provided by time-domain propagation delay measurements, we demonstrate the spectrally correlated nature of light propagation in CROWs.}, }
@article {pmid21162742, year = {2010}, author = {Keowkase, R and Aboukhatwa, M and Adam, BL and Beach, JW and Terry, AV and Buccafussco, JJ and Luo, Y}, title = {Neuroprotective effects and mechanism of cognitive-enhancing choline analogs JWB 1-84-1 and JAY 2-22-33 in neuronal culture and Caenorhabditis elegans.}, journal = {Molecular neurodegeneration}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {59}, pmid = {21162742}, issn = {1750-1326}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Our previous work indicated that novel analogs of choline have cytoprotective effects in vitro that might be useful in neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Furthermore, two lead compounds (JWB1-84-1 and JAY2-22-33) from a library of more than 50 improved cognitive performances in a transgenic mouse model of AD. The purpose of these experiments was to more specifically investigate the neuroprotective capabilities of these lead compounds both in vitro and in vivo.<br><br>RESULTS: We used N2a cells which express a Swedish mutation in the amyloid precursor protein and presenilin 1 genes to investigate the effect of JWB1-84-1 and JAY2-22-33 on &#x3b2;-amyloid (A&#x3b2;) levels and found that both compounds significantly reduced A&#x3b2; levels. JWB1-84-1 and JAY2-22-33 also protected rat primary cortical neurons from A&#x3b2; toxicity. Subsequently, we utilized the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) as an in vivo model organism to identify potential molecular targets of these compounds. In the C. elegans model of A&#x3b2; toxicity, human A&#x3b2; is expressed intracellularly in the body wall muscle. The expression and subsequent aggregation of A&#x3b2; in the muscle leads to progressive paralysis.<br><br>CONCLUSION: We found that JAY2-22-33 (but not JWB1-84-1) significantly reduced A&#x3b2; toxicity by delaying paralysis and this protective effect required both the insulin signaling pathway and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs).}, }
@article {pmid21153442, year = {2011}, author = {Gabel, S}, title = {The medical director and the use of power: limits, challenges and opportunities.}, journal = {The Psychiatric quarterly}, volume = {82}, number = {3}, pages = {221-228}, pmid = {21153442}, issn = {1573-6709}, mesh = {Cooperative Behavior ; Health Facility Administrators/*psychology ; Humans ; *Interpersonal Relations ; Leadership ; Mental Health Services/organization &amp; administration ; Models, Psychological ; Physician Executives/*psychology ; *Power, Psychological ; }, abstract = {The organizational leadership in mental health agencies frequently resides in executives who are not psychiatrists and who may or may not have clinical backgrounds. Psychiatrists who are medical directors (MDs) of organizations with this structure are responsible for the success of the clinical programs, but are subordinate to the executive director (ED). The MD/ED relationship therefore is an example of the complexities and challenges of a relationship in which supervisor and supervisee have different types of power, but are mutually dependent on each other for the organization's success. Clarity and differentiation of the types of power of the MD and ED can be helpful in determining appropriate boundaries and facilitating a cooperative relationship that allows the organizational mission to be well served. Raven's model of the bases of social power (French and Raven, Studies in Social Power, 1959; Raven, Analyses of Social Issues and Public Policy 8(1):1-22, 2008) provides a useful framework to explore this relationship and the challenges and opportunities inherent in it.}, }
@article {pmid21141196, year = {2010}, author = {Breininger, DR and Nichols, JD and Duncan, BW and Stolen, ED and Carter, GM and Hunt, DK and Drese, JH}, title = {Multistate modeling of habitat dynamics: factors affecting Florida scrub transition probabilities.}, journal = {Ecology}, volume = {91}, number = {11}, pages = {3354-3364}, doi = {10.1890/09-0964.1}, pmid = {21141196}, issn = {0012-9658}, mesh = {Animals ; *Ecosystem ; Florida ; *Models, Biological ; Plants ; Population Dynamics ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Many ecosystems are influenced by disturbances that create specific successional states and habitat structures that species need to persist. Estimating transition probabilities between habitat states and modeling the factors that influence such transitions have many applications for investigating and managing disturbance-prone ecosystems. We identify the correspondence between multistate capture-recapture models and Markov models of habitat dynamics. We exploit this correspondence by fitting and comparing competing models of different ecological covariates affecting habitat transition probabilities in Florida scrub and flatwoods, a habitat important to many unique plants and animals. We subdivided a large scrub and flatwoods ecosystem along central Florida's Atlantic coast into 10-ha grid cells, which approximated average territory size of the threatened Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens), a management indicator species. We used 1.0-m resolution aerial imagery for 1994, 1999, and 2004 to classify grid cells into four habitat quality states that were directly related to Florida Scrub-Jay source-sink dynamics and management decision making. Results showed that static site features related to fire propagation (vegetation type, edges) and temporally varying disturbances (fires, mechanical cutting) best explained transition probabilities. Results indicated that much of the scrub and flatwoods ecosystem was resistant to moving from a degraded state to a desired state without mechanical cutting, an expensive restoration tool. We used habitat models parameterized with the estimated transition probabilities to investigate the consequences of alternative management scenarios on future habitat dynamics. We recommend this multistate modeling approach as being broadly applicable for studying ecosystem, land cover, or habitat dynamics. The approach provides maximum-likelihood estimates of transition parameters, including precision measures, and can be used to assess evidence among competing ecological models that describe system dynamics.}, }
@article {pmid21137794, year = {2010}, author = {Kato, S and Taira, H and Aoshima, H and Saitoh, Y and Miwa, N}, title = {Clinical evaluation of fullerene-C60 dissolved in squalane for anti-wrinkle cosmetics.}, journal = {Journal of nanoscience and nanotechnology}, volume = {10}, number = {10}, pages = {6769-6774}, doi = {10.1166/jnn.2010.3053}, pmid = {21137794}, issn = {1533-4880}, mesh = {Administration, Topical ; Adult ; Cosmetics/*administration &amp; dosage/chemistry ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Fullerenes/*administration &amp; dosage/chemistry ; Humans ; Olive Oil ; Photography ; Plant Oils/chemistry ; Skin/*drug effects ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Squalene/administration &amp; dosage/*analogs &amp; derivatives/chemistry ; }, abstract = {Highly purified and organic solvent-free fullerene-C60 was dissolved, at nearly saturated concentration of 278 ppm, in squalane prepared from olive oil, which is designated as LipoFullerene (LF-SQ) and was examined for usage as a cosmetic ingredient with antioxidant ability. The aim of this study was to assess the anti-wrinkle formation efficacy of LF-SQ in subjects. A total of 23 Japanese women (group I: age 38.9 +/- 3.8, n = 11, group II; age 39.4 +/- 4.3, n = 12) were enrolled in an 8-week trial of LF-SQ blended cream in a randomized, matched pair double-blind study. The LF-SQ cream was applied twice daily on the right or left half of the face, and squalane blended cream (without fullerene-C60) was applied as the placebo on another half of the face. As clinical evaluations of wrinkle grades, visual observation and photographs, and silicone replicas of both crow's feet areas were taken at baseline (0 week) and at 4th and 8th weeks. Skin replicas were analyzed using an optical profilometry technique. The wrinkle and skin-surface roughness features were calculated and statistically analyzed. Subsequently, trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), moisture levels of the stratum corneum, and visco-elasticity (suppleness: RO and elasticity: R7) were measured on cheeks by instrumental analysis. LF-SQ cream enhanced the skin moisture and the anti-wrinkle formation. LF-SQ cream that was applied on a face twice daily was not effective at 4th week, but significantly more effective than the placebo at 8th week (p < 0.05) without severe side effects. The roughness-area ratio showed significant improvement (p < 0.05) at 8th week with LF-SQ cream as compared to 0 week with LF-SQ cream, but no significant difference was detected between LF-SQ cream and the placebo. We suggest that LF-SQ could be used as an active ingredient for wrinkle-care cosmetics.}, }
@article {pmid21136083, year = {2011}, author = {Galván, I and Mousseau, TA and Møller, AP}, title = {Bird population declines due to radiation exposure at Chernobyl are stronger in species with pheomelanin-based coloration.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {165}, number = {4}, pages = {827-835}, pmid = {21136083}, issn = {1432-1939}, mesh = {Animals ; Antioxidants/metabolism ; Birds/classification/genetics/*physiology ; Body Mass Index ; *Chernobyl Nuclear Accident ; *Environmental Exposure ; Glutathione/metabolism ; Melanins/*metabolism ; Oxidative Stress ; Phylogeny ; Pigmentation/*physiology ; Population Density ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Eumelanin and pheomelanin are the most common pigments providing color to the integument of vertebrates. While pheomelanogenesis requires high levels of a key intracellular antioxidant (glutathione, GSH), eumelanogenesis is inhibited by GSH. This implies that species that possess the molecular basis to produce large amounts of pheomelanin might be more limited in coping with environmental conditions that generate oxidative stress than species that produce eumelanin. Exposure to ionizing radiation produces free radicals and depletes antioxidant resources. GSH is particularly susceptible to radiation, so that species with large proportions of pheomelanic integument may be limited by the availability of GSH to combat oxidative stress and may thus suffer more from radiation effects. We tested this hypothesis in 97 species of birds censused in areas with varying levels of radioactive contamination around Chernobyl. After controlling for the effects of carotenoid-based color, body mass and similarity among taxa due to common phylogenetic descent, the proportion of pheomelanic plumage was strongly negatively related to the slope estimates of the relationship between abundance and radiation levels, while no effect of eumelanic color proportion was found. This represents the first report of an effect of the expression of melanin-based coloration on the capacity to resist the effects of ionizing radiation. Population declines were also stronger in species that exhibit carotenoid-based coloration and have large body mass. The magnitude of population declines had a relatively high phylogenetic signal, indicating that certain groups of birds, especially non-corvid passeriforms, are particularly susceptible to suffer from the effects of radioactive contamination due to phylogenetic inertia.}, }
@article {pmid21135641, year = {2010}, author = {Onor, M and Trevisiol, M and Spano, M and Aguglia, E and Paradiso, S}, title = {Alexithymia and aging: a neuropsychological perspective.}, journal = {The Journal of nervous and mental disease}, volume = {198}, number = {12}, pages = {891-895}, pmid = {21135641}, issn = {1539-736X}, support = {K23 AG027837/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; 5K23AG027837/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Affective Symptoms/*etiology/physiopathology ; Aged ; Aging/physiology/*psychology ; Attention/physiology ; Case-Control Studies ; Executive Function/physiology ; Functional Laterality/physiology ; Humans ; Language Tests ; Memory/physiology ; Mental Recall/physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; }, abstract = {Consistent with the emotional changes associated with later life, higher alexithymia scores are widely reported in older adults, but their significance has not been fully examined. We posited that association between alexithymia and poorer neurocognition would support the deficit nature of alexithymia in later life. Widely used neurocognitive tests assessing the relative integrity of the left and right hemisphere functions were used to examine the extent to which alexithymia of older age is associated with poor left or right hemisphere functioning. Healthy community-dwelling volunteers (20 young and 20 elderly subjects) were studied with the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale. Neurocognitive competence was assessed using a neuropsychological battery measuring attention, language, memory, visuospatial abilities, and executive functions. Neurocognitive abilities were strongly age-related and indirectly correlated with alexithymia. Alexithymia total score appeared to be uniquely predicted by Raven Matrices and Rey's Figure Recall. These results support the deficit hypothesis alexithymia of older age.}, }
@article {pmid21135010, year = {2011}, author = {Mills, R and Alati, R and O'Callaghan, M and Najman, JM and Williams, GM and Bor, W and Strathearn, L}, title = {Child abuse and neglect and cognitive function at 14 years of age: findings from a birth cohort.}, journal = {Pediatrics}, volume = {127}, number = {1}, pages = {4-10}, doi = {10.1542/peds.2009-3479}, pmid = {21135010}, issn = {1098-4275}, mesh = {Adolescent ; *Child Abuse ; Cognition ; Cohort Studies ; Developmental Disabilities/*epidemiology/*etiology ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Prospective Studies ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To examine the association between child maltreatment (abuse and neglect) and long-term cognitive outcomes within a prospective birth cohort.<br><br>METHODS: A birth cohort of 7223 children was recruited. Independent reports of suspected child maltreatment were confidentially linked to the longitudinal study database. The principal predictor variable was notification to the state child-protection authority for suspected maltreatment (abuse, neglect, or both). The outcome variables were scores on the Wide Range Achievement Test (WRAT) reading test and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM), completed at 14 years of age. Multivariate regression analysis was used to adjust for potential confounders.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 3796 subjects completed either the WRAT or RSPM. There was a higher loss to follow-up among children who had been reported to the state as suspected victims of maltreatment. After controlling for a range of possible confounders and modifiers, notification to the state for child maltreatment (abuse, neglect, or both) was associated with a lower score on both the WRAT (mean difference: -4.4 when the SD is 15 [95% confidence interval: -6.3 to -2.5]) and RSPM (mean difference: -4.8 when the SD is 15 [95% confidence interval: -6.7 to -2.9]). Both reported abuse and neglect were independently associated with lower reading ability and perceptual reasoning.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Both child abuse and child neglect are independently associated with impaired cognition and academic functioning in adolescence. These findings suggest that both abuse and neglect have independent and important adverse effects on a child's cognitive development.}, }
@article {pmid21132448, year = {2011}, author = {Feenders, G and Smulders, TV}, title = {Magpies can use local cues to retrieve their food caches.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {14}, number = {2}, pages = {235-243}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-010-0357-2}, pmid = {21132448}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; *Cues ; Feeding Behavior/*psychology ; Female ; Food ; Male ; }, abstract = {Much importance has been placed on the use of spatial cues by food-hoarding birds in the retrieval of their caches. In this study, we investigate whether food-hoarding birds can be trained to use local cues ("beacons") in their cache retrieval. We test magpies (Pica pica) in an active hoarding-retrieval paradigm, where local cues are always reliable, while spatial cues are not. Our results show that the birds use the local cues to retrieve their caches, even when occasionally contradicting spatial information is available. The design of our study does not allow us to test rigorously whether the birds prefer using local over spatial cues, nor to investigate the process through which they learn to use local cues. We furthermore provide evidence that magpies develop landmark preferences, which improve their retrieval accuracy. Our findings support the hypothesis that birds are flexible in their use of memory information, using a combination of the most reliable or salient information to retrieve their caches.}, }
@article {pmid21125307, year = {2010}, author = {McKenzie, VJ and Goulet, NE}, title = {Bird community composition linked to human West Nile virus cases along the Colorado front range.}, journal = {EcoHealth}, volume = {7}, number = {4}, pages = {439-447}, pmid = {21125307}, issn = {1612-9210}, mesh = {Altitude ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/transmission/virology ; Birds/classification/virology ; Colorado/epidemiology ; Crows/virology ; Culicidae/*virology ; Databases, Factual ; Disease Reservoirs/veterinary/virology ; Ecosystem ; Environmental Health ; Humans ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; Linear Models ; Public Health/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Risk Assessment/methods ; Songbirds/virology ; Species Specificity ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*transmission/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {In the present study, we examined whether bird community composition can predict the annual number of human West Nile virus (WNV) cases on a per county basis in the Colorado Front Range, a region that experienced high numbers of human cases during the early part of the North American epidemic. We analyzed data sets pertaining to birds and human WNV cases from multiple existing databases between the years 2002 and 2008. Based on previous studies that used amplification fractions to compare the relative competence of different bird species, ten bird species that are common in Colorado were selected and categorized as high amplification birds, such as the American Robin (Turdus migratorius), or low amplification birds, such as the American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos). A general linear modeling analysis was used with an information theoretic (AIC) model sorting approach to examine which of the models best predicted the number of human WNV cases per county. Candidate models included year as a covariate and one of several bird community descriptors (e.g., richness, diversity, total bird abundance, high amplification abundance, or low amplification abundance). Results demonstrated that high amplification birds were a significant predictor of human WNV cases between 2002 and 2008. Our results suggest that a small subset of the bird community with high amplification fractions may drive the dynamics of human disease risk for West Nile. This study has implications for surveillance of West Nile and may offer insight into disease risk associated with other vector-borne zoonotic diseases.}, }
@article {pmid21123258, year = {2011}, author = {Soler, JJ and Martín-Gálvez, D and Martínez, JG and Soler, M and Canestrari, D and Abad-Gómez, JM and Møller, AP}, title = {Evolution of tolerance by magpies to brood parasitism by great spotted cuckoos.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {278}, number = {1714}, pages = {2047-2052}, pmid = {21123258}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Birds/genetics/*physiology ; Female ; Genetic Fitness ; *Host-Parasite Interactions ; *Nesting Behavior ; Songbirds/genetics/*parasitology/physiology ; Spain ; }, abstract = {Hosts may use two different strategies to ameliorate negative effects of a given parasite burden: resistance or tolerance. Although both resistance and tolerance of parasitism should evolve as a consequence of selection pressures owing to parasitism, the study of evolutionary patterns of tolerance has traditionally been neglected by animal biologists. Here, we explore geographical covariation between tolerance of magpies (Pica pica) and brood parasitism by the great spotted cuckoo (Clamator glandarius) in nine different sympatric populations. We estimated tolerance as the slope of the regression of number of magpie fledglings (i.e. host fitness) on number of cuckoo eggs laid in non-depredated nests (which broadly equals parasite burden). We also estimated prevalence of parasitism and level of host resistance (i.e. rejection rates of mimetic model eggs) in these nine populations. In accordance with the hypothetical role of tolerance in the coevolutionary process between magpies and cuckoos we found geographical variation in tolerance estimates that positively covaried with prevalence of parasitism. Levels of resistance and tolerance were not associated, possibly suggesting the lack of a trade-off between the two kinds of defences against great spotted cuckoo parasitism for magpies. We discuss the results in the framework of a mosaic of coevolutionary interactions along the geographical distribution of magpies and great spotted cuckoos for which we found evidence that tolerance plays a major role.}, }
@article {pmid21120257, year = {2010}, author = {Baumann, LS and Grunebaum, L and Elsaie, ML and Murdock, J and Jablonka, E and Figueras, K and Bell, M}, title = {Safety and efficacy of a rapid-acting topical 4% lidocaine gel in a unique drug delivery system.}, journal = {Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD}, volume = {9}, number = {12}, pages = {1500-1504}, pmid = {21120257}, issn = {1545-9616}, mesh = {Administration, Topical ; Anesthetics, Local/*administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects/blood/therapeutic use ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Drug Delivery Systems ; Female ; Humans ; Injections ; Lidocaine/*administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects/blood/therapeutic use ; Pain Measurement ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Ideally, topical anesthetics should provide rapid analgesic action without causing toxic blood levels of lidocaine or other side effects. Various formulations of lidocaine as a topical anesthetic have been tested and are currently on the market. Here, the authors report on a topical lidocaine with a novel delivery system that provides a rapid onset of action without toxic plasma els of lidocaine.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: Study 1 assessed the time needed for a topical 4% lidocaine gel with a unique drug delivery system to produce optimal anesthetic effects. Study 2 assessed lidocaine plasma concentrations and assessed the time to maximal anesthetic effect.<br><br>METHODS: In both studies, subjects received six botulinum toxin type A injections for crow's feet wrinkles in six separate zones in the lateral periocular regions bilaterally. The first injection was administered in the absence of topical 4% lidocaine gel. Gel was then applied to the remaining five zones and injections were given at set time points out to 45 minutes. In study 2, blood samples were taken from baseline to 60 minutes.<br><br>RESULTS: Significant anesthetic effect with topical 4% lidocaine gel was attained without occlusion in approximately 25-30 minutes. However, optimum effects were observed between 35-40 minutes after application. Additionally, topical 4% lidocaine, when used appropriately, did not produce lidocaine plasma levels associated with toxicity.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Topical 4% lidocaine gel with a unique drug delivery system produces significant anesthesia without occlusion in approximately 25-30 minutes with optimal effects observed between 35-40 minutes after application. Topical 4% lidocaine gel can be used effectively and safely as a topical anesthetic in the physician's office.}, }
@article {pmid21117771, year = {2010}, author = {Hernandez, EN and Solangi, M and Kuczaj, SA}, title = {Time and frequency parameters of bottlenose dolphin whistles as predictors of surface behavior in the Mississippi Sound.}, journal = {The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America}, volume = {127}, number = {5}, pages = {3232-3238}, doi = {10.1121/1.3365254}, pmid = {21117771}, issn = {1520-8524}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Bottle-Nosed Dolphin/*physiology ; Discriminant Analysis ; Feeding Behavior ; Mississippi ; Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Social Behavior ; Sound Spectrography ; Swimming ; Time Factors ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Acoustic characteristics related to contour of the whistle (such as highest and lowest frequency, beginning and ending frequency, whistle duration, and number of turns) of bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) whistles were measured to test whether any of the measurements were related to the behavioral state of the dolphins when the whistle was recorded (coded as mill, travel, mill/travel, feed, or social). Objective measures of time and frequency were obtained using Raven, while number of turns in a whistle was determined by human raters. In all a series of discriminant function analyses using the acoustic characteristics to predict the behavioral state, the highest standardized canonical discriminant function coefficients were: lowest frequency, number of turns, and duration. The models that incorporated these variables performed significantly better than chance at correctly assigning the whistles into the surface behavior category in which they were recorded. The rate of whistling was related to group size, surface behavior and season via a series of two-way ANOVAs (analysis of variance).}, }
@article {pmid21114110, year = {2010}, author = {Kotangale, JP and Chaudhari, PR and Pentu Saheb, S and Wate, SR}, title = {Avifauna in the Panipat Region, Haryana (India).}, journal = {Journal of environmental science &amp; engineering}, volume = {52}, number = {1}, pages = {61-66}, pmid = {21114110}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biodiversity ; *Birds ; Climate ; Ecology ; Ecosystem ; India ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Avifaunal study was carried out in the Panipat region, Haryana (India) at 56 locations. 91 birds species were observed during the study, of which, 39 species were aquatic. House sparrow was found to be dominant followed by bank myna, house crow and Indian myna. Among the aquatic birds, cattle egret was dominant followed by common pochard, pintail and blackwinged stilt. Encounter rates of the birds were related to the dominant indices of each species. Species diversity index was found to be 10.25 which showed the richness of avifauna in the region. Majority of birds were insectivorous followed by piscivorous. The study reveals the occurrence of more birds, especially aquatic ones, after the commissioning of the refinery.}, }
@article {pmid21109010, year = {2011}, author = {Koester, D and Schiller, NO}, title = {The functional neuroanatomy of morphology in language production.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {55}, number = {2}, pages = {732-741}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroimage.2010.11.044}, pmid = {21109010}, issn = {1095-9572}, mesh = {Adult ; Brain/*physiology ; *Brain Mapping ; Female ; Humans ; Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Speech/*physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The present study investigated the neural correlates of morphological priming in overt Dutch language production using a long-lag priming paradigm. Compound words were read out loud as primes that were morphologically related to picture names (e.g. the word jaszak, 'coat pocket' was used for a picture of a coat; Dutch jas), or primes were form-related, but not morphologically related monomorphemic words (e.g. jasmijn, 'jasmine'). The morphologically related compounds could be semantically transparent (e.g. eksternest, 'magpie nest') or opaque (e.g. eksteroog, lit. 'magpie eye,' 'corn,' for a picture of a magpie, Dutch ekster). These four priming conditions were complemented by two matched, unrelated conditions. The production of morphologically related, complex words but not the production of form-related words facilitated subsequent picture naming. Also, morphologically related but not form-related words led to a neural priming effect in the left inferior frontal gyrus (LIFG). The effects did not differ for transparent and opaque relations. The results point to a functional role of LIFG in morphological information processing during language production contrary to previous meta-analytic findings. Specifically, morphological priming effects in language production seem to be independent from semantic overlap. However, further research should confirm the independence of morphological and phonological factors. It is suggested that LIFG subserves word form encoding in language production.}, }
@article {pmid21107933, year = {2011}, author = {Postacchini, F and Postacchini, R}, title = {Operative management of lumbar disc herniation : the evolution of knowledge and surgical techniques in the last century.}, journal = {Acta neurochirurgica. Supplement}, volume = {108}, number = {}, pages = {17-21}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-211-99370-5_4}, pmid = {21107933}, issn = {0065-1419}, mesh = {Diskectomy, Percutaneous/*history/*methods/trends ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Intervertebral Disc Displacement/history/*surgery ; Lumbosacral Region/surgery ; Microsurgery/history/*methods/trends ; }, abstract = {Removal of a herniated disc with the use of the operative microscope was first performed by Yasargil (Adv Neurosurg. 4:81-2, 1977) in 1977. However, it began to be used more and more only in the late 1980s (McCulloch JA (1989) Principles of microsurgery for lumbar disc disease. Raven Press, New York). In the 1990s, many spinal surgeons abandoned conventional discectomy with naked-eye to pass to the routine practice of microdiscectomy. The merits of this technique are that it allows every type of disc herniation to be excised through a short approach to skin, fascia and muscles as well as a limited laminoarthrectomy. For these reasons, it has been, and still is, considered the "gold standard" of surgical treatment for lumbar disc herniation, and the method used by the vast majority of spinal surgeons. In the 1990s, the advent of MRI and the progressive increase in definition of this modality of imaging, as well as histopathologic and immunochemical studies of disc tissue and the analysis of the results of conservative treatments have considerably contributed to the knowledge of the natural evolution of a herniated disc. It was shown that disc herniation may decrease in size or disappear in a few weeks or months. Since the second half of the 1990s there has been a revival of percutaneous procedures. Some of these are similar to the percutaneous automated nucleotomy; other methods are represented by intradiscal injection of a mixture of "oxygen-ozone" (Alexandre A, Buric J, Paradiso R. et al. (2001) Intradiscal injection of oxygen ozone for the treatment of lumbar disc herniations: result at 5 years. 12th World Congress of Neurosurgery; 284-7), or laserdiscectomy performed under CT scan (Menchetti PPM. (2006) Laser Med Sci. 4:25-7). The really emerging procedure is that using an endoscope inserted into the disc through the intervertebral foramen to visualize the herniation and remove it manually using thin pituitary rongeurs, a radiofrequency probe or both (Chiu JC. (2004) Surg Technol Int. 13:276-86).Microdiscectomy is still the standard method of treatment due to its simplicity, low rate of complications and high percentage of satisfactory results, which exceed 90% in the largest series. Endoscopic transforaminal discectomy appears to be a reliable method, able to give similar results to microdiscectomy, provided the surgeon is expert enough in the technique, which implies a long learning curve in order to perform the operation effectively, with no complications. All the non-endoscopic percutaneous procedures now available can be used, but the patient must be clearly informed that while the procedure is simple and rapid, at least for the disc L4-L5 and those above (except for laserdiscectomy under CT, that can be easily performed also at L5-S1), their success rate ranges from 60 to 70% and that, in many cases, pain may decrease slowly and may take even several weeks to disappear.}, }
@article {pmid21103918, year = {2011}, author = {Kunda, M and Goel, AK}, title = {Thinking in Pictures as a cognitive account of autism.}, journal = {Journal of autism and developmental disorders}, volume = {41}, number = {9}, pages = {1157-1177}, pmid = {21103918}, issn = {1573-3432}, mesh = {Autistic Disorder/*psychology ; Child ; *Cognition ; Humans ; *Imagination ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Photic Stimulation/methods ; *Thinking ; *Verbal Behavior ; }, abstract = {We analyze the hypothesis that some individuals on the autism spectrum may use visual mental representations and processes to perform certain tasks that typically developing individuals perform verbally. We present a framework for interpreting empirical evidence related to this "Thinking in Pictures" hypothesis and then provide comprehensive reviews of data from several different cognitive tasks, including the n-back task, serial recall, dual task studies, Raven's Progressive Matrices, semantic processing, false belief tasks, visual search, spatial recall, and visual recall. We also discuss the relationships between the Thinking in Pictures hypothesis and other cognitive theories of autism including Mindblindness, Executive Dysfunction, Weak Central Coherence, and Enhanced Perceptual Functioning.}, }
@article {pmid21098962, year = {2010}, author = {Hoey, RG}, title = {Exploring bird aerodynamics using radio-controlled models.}, journal = {Bioinspiration &amp; biomimetics}, volume = {5}, number = {4}, pages = {045008}, doi = {10.1088/1748-3182/5/4/045008}, pmid = {21098962}, issn = {1748-3190}, mesh = {*Aircraft ; Animals ; *Biomimetic Materials ; Birds/*physiology ; Computer Simulation ; Computer-Aided Design ; Equipment Design ; Flight, Animal/*physiology ; *Models, Biological ; Robotics/instrumentation ; Telemetry/*instrumentation ; Wings, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {A series of radio-controlled glider models was constructed by duplicating the aerodynamic shape of soaring birds (raven, turkey vulture, seagull and pelican). Controlled tests were conducted to determine the level of longitudinal and lateral-directional static stability, and to identify the characteristics that allowed flight without a vertical tail. The use of tail-tilt for controlling small bank-angle changes, as observed in soaring birds, was verified. Subsequent tests, using wing-tip ailerons, inferred that birds use a three-dimensional flow pattern around the wing tip (wing tip vortices) to control adverse yaw and to create a small amount of forward thrust in gliding flight.}, }
@article {pmid21092362, year = {2011}, author = {Lynn, R and Chen, HY and Chen, YH}, title = {Intelligence in Taiwan: Progressive Matrices means and sex differences in means and variances for 6- to 17-year-olds.}, journal = {Journal of biosocial science}, volume = {43}, number = {4}, pages = {469-474}, doi = {10.1017/S0021932010000611}, pmid = {21092362}, issn = {1469-7599}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Age Factors ; Analysis of Variance ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Reference Values ; *Sex Characteristics ; Sex Factors ; Taiwan ; }, abstract = {Data for Raven's Progressive Matrices are reported for a sample of 6290 6- to 17-year-olds in Taiwan. The Taiwanese obtained a mean IQ of 109.5, in relation to a British mean of 100. There was no difference in mean scores of boys and girls at age 7 years. At age 10 years girls obtained significantly higher scores than boys, and at ages 13 and 16 years boys obtained significantly higher scores than girls. There was no sex difference in variance at age 7 years. At ages 10, 13 and 16 years variance was significantly greater in boys.}, }
@article {pmid21073136, year = {2010}, author = {Takayama, Y}, title = {A delayed recall battery as a sensitive screening for mild cognitive impairment: follow-up study of memory clinic patients after 10 years.}, journal = {Journal of medical and dental sciences}, volume = {57}, number = {2}, pages = {177-184}, pmid = {21073136}, issn = {1342-8810}, mesh = {Aged ; Alzheimer Disease/*diagnosis ; Analysis of Variance ; Chi-Square Distribution ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; *Mental Recall ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: I examined the predictive value of the combination of three delayed recall tests to distinguish (1) those with probable Alzheimer's disease (AD) from those within normal range, and (2) those with Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) from those within normal range. The data from 90 visitors to a memory clinic in Tokyo was used. I first examined patients clinically, neuroradiologically, and excluded the mental and neurological illness. AD was diagnosed according to the NINCDS-ADRDA criteria, MCI according to the criteria of Petersen et al.. Normal must be free from any disease examined above.<br><br>METHODS: After the diagnosis, the baseline neuropsychological tests were performed for all participants; the Mini Mental State Examination, Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, the Stroop Test, a 10-words list learning and recall test, a story recall test, and the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test. After 10 years, all patients were reassessed and diagnosed again.<br><br>RESULTS: Of the MCI patients for follow-up (n=29), 19 were converted to AD, while 5 not. One died. 4 lost. All AD patients (n=30) remained as AD. The combination of 3 delayed recall battery provides clinically useful predictive values for both AD and MCI in a memory clinics and dementia research clinics.}, }
@article {pmid21070107, year = {2010}, author = {Xiang, YT and Shum, D and Chiu, HF and Tang, WK and Ungvari, GS}, title = {Association of demographic characteristics, symptomatology, retrospective and prospective memory, executive functioning and intelligence with social functioning in schizophrenia.}, journal = {The Australian and New Zealand journal of psychiatry}, volume = {44}, number = {12}, pages = {1112-1117}, doi = {10.3109/00048674.2010.514854}, pmid = {21070107}, issn = {1440-1614}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Asian People/psychology ; Demography ; *Executive Function ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; *Memory ; Middle Aged ; Schizophrenia/*diagnosis ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Self Care/psychology ; *Social Adjustment ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to explore the influence of socio-demographic and clinical factors and neurocognitive variables (i.e. prospective and retrospective memory, executive functioning, and intelligence) on social functioning in Chinese schizophrenia patients.<br><br>METHODS: The study sample comprised 110 Chinese schizophrenia patients. Their clinical condition and social functioning were evaluated with the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) and the Functional Needs Assessment (FNA), respectively. Three prospective memory (PM) tasks (time-, event-, and activity-based), three tests of executive functioning (the Design Fluency Test [DFT], Tower of London [TOL], and Wisconsin Card Sorting Test [WCST]), one test of intelligence (Raven's Progressive Matrices), and two retrospective memory (RM) tasks (the immediate and delayed recall conditions of the Logical Memory subtest of the Wechsler Memory Scales-Revised [WMS-R]) were administered to all patients.<br><br>RESULTS: In correlation analyses higher education and better performance on the WCST (categories completed) and the Logical Memory subtests (delayed and immediate) of the WMS-R are significantly correlated with better social functioning, whereas a lower WCST score (perseverative errors) and more severe negative symptoms are associated with poorer social functioning. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that higher education and a lower WCST score (perseverative errors) independently contribute to better social functioning.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Unexpectedly, most socio-demographic and clinical factors do not seem to have a significant impact on social functioning of Chinese schizophrenia patients living in a Chinese society. Negative symptoms and certain cognitive deficits were the main predictors of social functioning and they should be the main targets for antipsychotic treatment and psychosocial interventions to improve social adjustment in Chinese schizophrenia patients.}, }
@article {pmid21044196, year = {2010}, author = {Kim, KS and Tsuda, Y}, title = {Seasonal changes in the feeding pattern of Culex pipiens pallens govern the transmission dynamics of multiple lineages of avian malaria parasites in Japanese wild bird community.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {19}, number = {24}, pages = {5545-5554}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2010.04897.x}, pmid = {21044196}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*parasitology ; Culex/*pathogenicity/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Insect Vectors/*pathogenicity/*physiology ; Malaria, Avian/*transmission ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {Heterogeneity in the transmission of mosquito-borne pathogens is determined largely by distribution patterns of mosquito bites among wild animal populations. Although mosquitoes are crucial for transmission of avian malaria parasites, little is known about the ecology of natural vectors. We examined bloodmeal and parasite incidence in Culex pipiens pallens by a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based procedure to determine how the feeding pattern of mosquitoes govern transmission dynamics of avian malaria parasites in Japanese wild birds. We collected 881 unfed and 486 blood-fed Cx. pipiens pallens resting on vegetation in a park in Tokyo. The mosquitoes were separated into abdomen and thorax prior to PCR screening. Abdomens of unfed mosquitoes were combined into 95 pools. From these, we amplified Plasmodium DNA in 32 (33.7%) pools. Among blood-fed mosquitoes, 371 individuals were screened for blood-sources and Plasmodium parasites. Plasmodium DNA was amplified from mosquitoes fed on 6 of 13 avian species identified as blood-sources. Ten Plasmodium lineages were identified on the basis of 478 bp of the cytochrome b gene, with 0.2-10% sequence divergence. The three commonest Plasmodium lineages (CXPIP09, SGS1 and PADOM02) were detected in both the abdomens and thoraxes of mosquitoes, strongly suggesting transmission of these lineages. Jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) served as a natural host for the three commonest Plasmodium lineages and made up 63.8% of blood-sources. As a significant increase in feeding of vector mosquitoes on jungle crows coincided with their breeding season, jungle crows were considered to be the primary reservoir of Plasmodium transmission in this study.}, }
@article {pmid21041062, year = {2011}, author = {Smits, DW and Ketelaar, M and Gorter, JW and van Schie, P and Dallmeijer, A and Jongmans, M and Lindeman, E}, title = {Development of daily activities in school-age children with cerebral palsy.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {32}, number = {1}, pages = {222-234}, doi = {10.1016/j.ridd.2010.09.025}, pmid = {21041062}, issn = {1873-3379}, mesh = {*Activities of Daily Living ; *Adaptation, Psychological ; Cerebral Palsy/*psychology/*rehabilitation ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cohort Studies ; Family Characteristics ; Family Health ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Motor Skills ; Multivariate Analysis ; Psychology ; *Self Care ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to describe the course of capabilities in self-care, mobility, and social function in school-age children with cerebral palsy (CP) and to investigate associations with CP-, child-, and family-characteristics. A clinic-based sample of children with CP (n = 116; 76 males, 40 females; mean age 6 y 3 mo, SD 12 mo) was followed longitudinally in three yearly measurements. Children's capabilities were assessed with the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory Functional Skills Scale (PEDI-FSS). Averaged for the total group, significant increases over time were shown in PEDI-FSS scores in all three domains. For self-care, the course was best predicted by a model including level of gross motor function (measured by the Gross Motor Function Classification System) and intellectual capacity (measured by Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices). For mobility, the course was best predicted by a model containing only level of gross motor function. For social function, the course was best predicted by a model comprising level of bimanual function (measured by the Manual Ability Classification System) and paternal educational level. Generally, the increase in capabilities was greater if level of functioning was higher, except for level of paternal education. The findings indicate that there are different sets of determinants for the course of different domains of daily activities. Such different sets of determinants may help to set realistic expectations and to create appropriate treatment plans for different domains of daily activities in school-age children with CP.}, }
@article {pmid21041042, year = {2011}, author = {Siengsanan-Lamont, J and Robertson, I and Blacksell, SD and Ellis, T and Fenwick, S and Saengchoowong, S and Suwanpukdee, S and Yongyuttawichai, P and Sariya, L and Prompiram, P and Chaichoun, K and Wiriyarat, W and Pothieng, D and Ratanakorn, P}, title = {Virological and molecular epidemiological investigations into the role of wild birds in the epidemiology of influenza A/H5N1 in central Thailand.}, journal = {Veterinary microbiology}, volume = {148}, number = {2-4}, pages = {213-218}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2010.09.028}, pmid = {21041042}, issn = {1873-2542}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/virology ; Birds/*virology ; Disease Outbreaks/veterinary ; Genome, Viral ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Influenza in Birds/*epidemiology/virology ; *Molecular Epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; Prevalence ; Thailand/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {A serological and virological surveillance program to investigate the HPAI H5N1 virus in wild bird populations was undertaken from February 2007 to October 2008. The purpose of the survey was to investigate the infection status in free ranging wild birds in Banglane district, Nakhon Pathom province, central Thailand. Samples from wild birds were collected every two months. Choanal and cloacal swabs, serum and tissue samples were collected from 421 birds comprising 44 species. Sero-prevalence of the virus tested by H5N1 serum neutralization test (using a H5N1 virus clade 1; A/chicken/Thailand/vsmu-3-BKK/2004) was 2.1% (8 out of 385 samples; 95% CI 0.7, 3.5). Species that were antibody positive included rock pigeons (Columba livia), Asian pied starling (Gracupica contra), spotted dove (Streptopelia chinensis), oriental magpie robin (Copsychus saularis), blue-tailed bee-eater (Merops philippinus), myna (Acridotheres spp.), and pond heron (Ardeola spp.). Prevalence by H5N1 virus isolation was 0.5% (2 out of 421 samples; 95% CI 0.0, 1.1); the two H5N1 virus-positive samples were from Asian pied starling (Gracupica contra) and white vented myna (Acridotheres grandis). Positive virological samples were collected in June 2007 while all positive serology samples were collected between May and August except for one sample collected in December 2007. No positive samples were collected in 2008. Molecular studies revealed that the wild bird H5N1 viruses were closely related to poultry viruses isolated in other parts of Thailand. However, there was no poultry H5N1 prevalence study performed in the study site during the time of this wild bird survey. Interpretation of source of virus isolates would include spill-over of H5N1 viruses from contaminated sources due to movement of domestic poultry and/or fomites from other areas; or infection of wild birds within the outbreak locations and then translocation by wild bird movement and interaction with wild birds inhabiting distant locations.}, }
@article {pmid21033151, year = {2010}, author = {Wang, HR and Dai, JJ and Jiang, ZL and Cai, J}, title = {[Cognitive quality of professional divers].}, journal = {Zhonghua lao dong wei sheng zhi ye bing za zhi = Zhonghua laodong weisheng zhiyebing zazhi = Chinese journal of industrial hygiene and occupational diseases}, volume = {28}, number = {6}, pages = {418-422}, pmid = {21033151}, issn = {1001-9391}, mesh = {Adult ; *Cognition ; *Diving ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Military Personnel/*psychology ; *Occupations ; Perception ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To explore and analyze the cognitive quality of professional divers.<br><br>METHODS: 165 professional divers were tested with Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM), 80.8 Neural Type Measuring Form, etc. with 230 common people, 49 sailors and 66 trainee divers as control.<br><br>RESULTS: There were significant difference among professional divers of different ages in the type of nerve activity, cognitive style, action stability, memory span, time reaction, the perception of space, act of attention and dark adaptation (P < 0.05); Over all, the cognitive quality of professional divers did not differ significantly in education level or working years (P < 0.05); Professional divers were superior to the common people in depth perception, cognitive style, act of attention, action stability, the perception of space and dark adaptation, but inferior to them in intelligence, memory span and time reaction (P < 0.05); There were significant difference in such cognitive indicators as the type of nerve activity, depth perception, kinesthetic memory, cognitive style, the perception of space and dark adaptation (P < 0.05); Compared with the trainee divers, professional divers were significantly better in the type of nerve activity, cognitive style, act of attention, action stability and the perception of space (P < 0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: As a specified profession, diving needs some particular cognitive quality, while the profession itself would affect professional divers' cognitive ability to a certain extent.}, }
@article {pmid21031053, year = {2010}, author = {Das, FA and Mithun, S}, title = {Opportunity for natural selection among some selected population groups of Northeast India.}, journal = {Indian journal of human genetics}, volume = {16}, number = {2}, pages = {61-66}, pmid = {21031053}, issn = {0971-6866}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Selection potential based on differential fertility and mortality has been computed for seven population groups inhabiting different geographical locations of Northeast India.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Crow's as well as Johnston and Kensinger's index have been used for the present purpose.<br><br>RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Irrespective of the methodology, the total index of selection was found to be highest among the Deoris followed by the Kaibartas. The lowest selection index was found among the Oraon population. If the relative contribution of fertility and mortality components to the total index is considered to be multiplicative, it is observed that in all these communities the fertility component exceeds that of mortality component, which may indicate initiation of demographic transitional phase in the selected populations with the betterment of healthcare and socioeconomic condition within the last few decades.}, }
@article {pmid20977509, year = {2010}, author = {Li, MH and Merilä, J}, title = {Genetic evidence for male-biased dispersal in the Siberian jay (Perisoreus infaustus) based on autosomal and Z-chromosomal markers.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {19}, number = {23}, pages = {5281-5295}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2010.04870.x}, pmid = {20977509}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; Bayes Theorem ; Finland ; *Genetic Variation ; *Genetics, Population ; Male ; Microsatellite Repeats ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Sex Chromosomes/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Sex-bias in natal dispersal patterns can have important genetic and evolutionary consequences; however, reliable information about sex-biased dispersal can be difficult to obtain with observational methods. We analysed the sex-specific patterns of genetic differentiation among three Siberian jay (Perisoreus infaustus) populations, using 11 autosomal and six Z-chromosomal microsatellite markers. Irrespective of marker-type and indices used (viz. F(ST), average pairwise relatedness and effective number of immigrants), all analyses provided strong evidence for male-biased dispersal. Population structuring at autosomal loci (F(ST) =0.046, P<0.05) exceeded that at Z-chromosomal loci (F(ST) =0.033, P<0.05), and levels of introgression were inferred to be significantly higher for Z-chromosomal when compared to autosomal loci. Of the three populations studied, levels of genetic variability were the lowest in the southernmost fringe population, despite the fact that it harboured a group of divergent Z-chromosomal haplotypes that were not found in the other two populations. In general, the results provide strong genetic evidence for male-biased dispersal in Siberian jays, where observational data have previously suggested male philopatry. The results also highlight the utility of Z-chromosomal markers for gaining insights into the genetic diversity and structuring of populations.}, }
@article {pmid20977097, year = {2010}, author = {Fajgelj, S and Bala, G and Katić, R}, title = {Latent structure of Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Collegium antropologicum}, volume = {34}, number = {3}, pages = {1015-1026}, pmid = {20977097}, issn = {0350-6134}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Child ; Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; }, abstract = {The main goal of the study was to determine the constructive validity of Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices by means of item factor analysis. The most important topic within this objective is to determine the test dimensionality, since many authors report on finding several significant primary factors. The study included 2334 children aged 4 to 11. Several types of factor analysis were used in order to obviate the influence of technique on the results. Our data suggested 3 or 4 first order factors. Based on the usual McDonald definition, the primary factors obtained could be considered difficulty factors in the majority of cases. The necessary number of factors on age subsamples, extracted by parallel analysis, was between 3 and 5. Factor structure on age subsamples indicated the youngest ages, 4 and 5, to be essentially different from the older ones. This difference was identified as underdevelopment of the goal management mechanisms.}, }
@article {pmid20972277, year = {2010}, author = {Bakhtadze, S and Janelidze, M}, title = {Quantative EEG during baseline and various cognitive tasks in children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder.}, journal = {Georgian medical news}, volume = {}, number = {186}, pages = {50-56}, pmid = {20972277}, issn = {1512-0112}, mesh = {Alpha Rhythm ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*physiopathology ; Child ; *Cognition ; Delta Rhythm ; *Electroencephalography ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Rest ; }, abstract = {It is known that attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder is a widely spread condition in school aged childhood population. Making of precise diagnosis is a serious problem of modern pediatric neurology. In spite of large amount of guidelines and questionnaires the unified consensus of diagnosis is still absent. Thus it is important to search additional diagnostic criteria which can help physicians to confirm ADHD. For this purposes we have used quantative EEG (QEEG) parameters. There are numerous papers regarding QEEG changes of ADHD children during baseline (resting with closed eyes, resting with opened eyes, photic stimulation, hyperventilation).But information concerning QEEG evidences during cognitive tasks is insufficient. For this purposes we have used QEEG during Raven test, reading and calculation in children with ADHD and control group. QEEG was carried out according to standard 10-20 electrode placement rule from the following derivations: F3, F4, C3, C4, P3, P4, O1, O2. We have observed that in controls fulfilling of Raven test is more difficult than reading. Thus they are eulectic but in ADHD children reading is more difficult than Raven test. Thus they are dyslexic. By means of alpha and delta bands analysis it became apparent that alpha band is inversely proportional to mental effort and delta band is directly proportional to mental activity.}, }
@article {pmid20971610, year = {2011}, author = {Van Herwegen, J and Farran, E and Annaz, D}, title = {Item and error analysis on Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices in Williams Syndrome.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {32}, number = {1}, pages = {93-99}, doi = {10.1016/j.ridd.2010.09.005}, pmid = {20971610}, issn = {1873-3379}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/psychology ; Color Perception ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Learning ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Williams Syndrome/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) is a standardised test that is commonly used to obtain a non-verbal reasoning score for children. As the RCPM involves the matching of a target to a pattern it is also considered to be a visuo-spatial perception task. RCPM is therefore frequently used in studies in Williams Syndrome (WS), in order to match WS participants to a control group or as a single measure to predict performance on a test-condition in developmental trajectory analyses. However, little is known about the performance of participants with WS on the RCPM. The current study compared the type of errors and the difficulty of each item for 53 participants with WS to 53 typically developing children who were individually matched on the total raw score for RCPM. Results showed that the participants with WS made the same proportion of error types and that the proportion of error types changed similarly to those of typically developing controls over development. Furthermore, the differential item difficulty between the two groups was highly similar. It is therefore argued that, although participants with WS are delayed on RCPM, their performance is not atypical which suggests that RCPM performance is supported by typical mechanisms. The RCPM is therefore a useful tool to match WS to control groups or to construct developmental trajectories.}, }
@article {pmid20971169, year = {2011}, author = {Bogale, BA and Aoyama, M and Sugita, S}, title = {Categorical learning between 'male' and 'female' photographic human faces in jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {86}, number = {1}, pages = {109-118}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2010.10.002}, pmid = {20971169}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Color ; Crows/*physiology ; Cues ; *Face ; Female ; Humans ; Learning/*physiology ; Male ; Photic Stimulation ; Photography ; Recognition, Psychology/*physiology ; Sex Characteristics ; Visual Perception/physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {We trained jungle crows to discriminate among photographs of human face according to their sex in a simultaneous two-alternative task to study their categorical learning ability. Once the crows reached a discrimination criterion (greater than or equal to 80% correct choices in two consecutive sessions; binomial probability test, p<.05), they next received generalization and transfer tests (i.e., greyscale, contour, and 'full' occlusion) in Experiment 1 followed by a 'partial' occlusion test in Experiment 2 and random stimuli pair test in Experiment 3. Jungle crows learned the discrimination task in a few trials and successfully generalized to novel stimuli sets. However, all crows failed the greyscale test and half of them the contour test. Neither occlusion of internal features of the face, nor randomly pairing of exemplars affected discrimination performance of most, if not all crows. We suggest that jungle crows categorize human face photographs based on perceptual similarities as other non-human animals do, and colour appears to be the most salient feature controlling discriminative behaviour. However, the variability in the use of facial contours among individuals suggests an exploitation of multiple features and individual differences in visual information processing among jungle crows.}, }
@article {pmid20971091, year = {2011}, author = {Ma, L and Chen, YH and Chen, H and Liu, YY and Wang, YX}, title = {The function of hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis in children with ADHD.}, journal = {Brain research}, volume = {1368}, number = {}, pages = {159-162}, doi = {10.1016/j.brainres.2010.10.045}, pmid = {20971091}, issn = {1872-6240}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adrenocorticotropic Hormone/*blood ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*blood/classification/metabolism/*psychology ; Child ; Humans ; Hydrocortisone/*blood ; Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System/metabolism ; Impulsive Behavior/blood/psychology ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Pituitary-Adrenal System/metabolism ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To explore the relationship between hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in non-stress states.<br><br>METHOD: 128 male children with ADHD aged between 6 and 14 years old were recruited, while 30 healthy male children were chosen as a control group. The diagnostic material was based on DSM-IV. The included ADHD children were further classified into the three sub-groups: ADHD-predominantly inattention type (ADHD-I) (n=44), ADHD-predominantly hyperactive impulsive type (ADHD-HI) (n=32), and ADHD-combined type (ADHD-C) (n=52). The levels of cortisol and adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) were evaluated by the automatic particle enzyme immunoassay and electrochemiluminescence respectively per morning (8:00 am). Intelligence test was assessed by the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: The children with ADHD had significantly lower intelligence quotient (IQ) (84.5&#xb1;11.3) in contrast to the control group (98.6&#xb1;12.4, P<0.01), although the lower level of IQ in ADHD-C group (79.2&#xb1;10.7) was also found when compared with other two sub-groups [ADHD-I (85.6&#xb1;10.4) and ADHD-HI (91.3&#xb1;12.6)]. In addition, no significant difference between the ADHD-HI group and the control group regarding the level of IQ were revealed. The level of cortisol in the ADHD group (226.47&#xb1;129.12 nmol/L) was significantly lower than that of the control group (384.53&#xb1;141.43 nmol/L, P<0.001). The level of cortisol of the ADHD-HI group (154.36&#xb1;71.62 nmol/L) was significantly lower than that of other two groups [ADHD-I group (219.42&#xb1;117.66 nmol/L) (P<0.01) and ADHD-C group (258.30&#xb1;136.39 nmol/L) (P<0.01)]. There were no significant differences in the ACTH level either between the ADHD and the control group (P>0.05), or between sub-groups in ADHD (P>0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: In the non-stress states, the existence of dysfunction of the HPA axis (lower plasma cortisol) in children with ADHD might be due to the under-reactivity of the HPA axis ; the low plasma cortisol level might contribute less to the outcomes of cognitive behavior of ADHD children and instead more closely relate to the core domains of attention deficit, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior of ADHD patients.}, }
@article {pmid20962155, year = {2010}, author = {Wang, Z and Ying, Z and Bosy-Westphal, A and Zhang, J and Schautz, B and Later, W and Heymsfield, SB and Müller, MJ}, title = {Specific metabolic rates of major organs and tissues across adulthood: evaluation by mechanistic model of resting energy expenditure.}, journal = {The American journal of clinical nutrition}, volume = {92}, number = {6}, pages = {1369-1377}, pmid = {20962155}, issn = {1938-3207}, support = {DK081633/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adipose Tissue/physiology ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Basal Metabolism/*physiology ; Brain/physiology ; Energy Metabolism/*physiology ; Female ; Heart/physiology ; Humans ; Kidney/physiology ; Liver/physiology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Models, Biological ; Muscle, Skeletal/physiology ; Reference Values ; Regression Analysis ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The specific resting metabolic rates (K(i); in kcal · kg(-1)· d(-1)) of major organs and tissues in adults were suggested by Elia (in Energy metabolism: tissue determinants and cellular corollaries. New York, NY: Raven Press, 1992) to be as follows: 200 for liver, 240 for brain, 440 for heart and kidneys, 13 for skeletal muscle, 4.5 for adipose tissue, and 12 for residual organs and tissues. However, Elia's K(i) values have never been fully evaluated.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the applicability of Elia's K(i) values across adulthood and to explore the potential influence of age on the K(i) values.<br><br>DESIGN: A new approach was developed to evaluate the K(i) values of major organs and tissues on the basis of a mechanistic model: REE = &#x3a3;(K(i) &#xd7; T(i)), where REE is whole-body resting energy expenditure measured by indirect calorimetry, and T(i) is the mass of individual organs and tissues measured by magnetic resonance imaging. With measured REE and T(i), marginal 95% CIs for K(i) values were calculated by stepwise univariate regression analysis. An existing database of nonobese, healthy adults [n = 131; body mass index (in kg/m&#xb2;) <30] was divided into 3 age groups: 21-30 y (young, n = 43), 31-50 y (middle-age, n = 51), and > 50 y (n = 37).<br><br>RESULTS: Elia's K(i) values were within the range of 95% CIs in the young and middle-age groups. However, Elia's K(i) values were outside the right boundaries of 95% CIs in the >50-y group, which indicated that Elia's study overestimated K(i) values by 3% in this group. Age-adjusted K(i) values for adults aged >50 y were 194 for liver, 233 for brain, 426 for heart and kidneys, 12.6 for skeletal muscle, 4.4 for adipose tissue, and 11.6 for residuals.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The general applicability of Elia's K(i) values was validated across adulthood, although age adjustment is appropriate for specific applications.}, }
@article {pmid20957962, year = {2010}, author = {Loayza, AP and Knight, T}, title = {Seed dispersal by pulp consumers, not "legitimate" seed dispersers, increases Guettarda viburnoides population growth.}, journal = {Ecology}, volume = {91}, number = {9}, pages = {2684-2695}, doi = {10.1890/09-0480.1}, pmid = {20957962}, issn = {0012-9658}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Computer Simulation ; Demography ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Models, Biological ; Rubiaceae/*physiology ; Seeds/*physiology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {We examined the effect of seed dispersal by Purplish Jays (Cyanocorax cyanomelas; pulp consumers) and the Chestnut-eared Araçari (Pteroglossus castanotis; "legitimate" seed dispersers) on population growth of the small tree Guettarda viburnoides (Rubiaceae) in northeastern Bolivian savannas. Because each bird species differs with respect to feeding and post-feeding behavior, we hypothesized that seed dispersal by each species will contribute differently to the rate of increase of G. viburnoides, but that seed dispersal by either species will increase population growth when compared to a scenario with no seed dispersal. To examine the effects of individual dispersers on the future population size of G. viburnoides, we projected population growth rate using demographic models for G. viburnoides that explicitly incorporate data on quantitative and qualitative aspects of seed dispersal by each frugivore species. Our model suggests that seed dispersal by C. cyanomelas leads to positive population growth of G. viburnoides, whereas seed dispersal by P. castanotis has a detrimental effect on the population growth of this species. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report negative effects of a "legitimate" seed disperser on the population dynamics of the plant it consumes. Our results stress the importance of incorporating frugivore effects into population projection matrices, to allow a comprehensive analysis of the effectiveness of different dispersers for plant population dynamics.}, }
@article {pmid20943219, year = {2011}, author = {Menezes-Filho, JA and Novaes, Cde O and Moreira, JC and Sarcinelli, PN and Mergler, D}, title = {Elevated manganese and cognitive performance in school-aged children and their mothers.}, journal = {Environmental research}, volume = {111}, number = {1}, pages = {156-163}, pmid = {20943219}, issn = {1096-0953}, support = {D43 TW000640/TW/FIC NIH HHS/United States ; D43 TW000640-13/TW/FIC NIH HHS/United States ; D43TW00640/TW/FIC NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Brazil ; Child ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Cognition Disorders/blood/*chemically induced/metabolism ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Environmental Exposure/*adverse effects ; Female ; Hair/*chemistry ; Humans ; Male ; Manganese/blood/*metabolism ; Manganese Poisoning/blood/metabolism/*psychology ; Mothers ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Growing evidence suggests that excess manganese (Mn) in children is associated with neurobehavioral impairments. In Brazil, elevated hair Mn concentrations were reported in children living near a ferro-manganese alloy plant.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: We investigated these children's and caregivers' cognitive function in relation to bioindicators of Mn exposure.<br><br>METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, the WISC-III was administered to 83 children aged between 6 and 12 years; the Raven Progressive Matrix was administered to the primary caregivers (94% mothers), who likewise responded to a questionnaire on socio demographics and birth history. Mn in hair (MnH) and blood (MnB) and blood lead (PbB) were measured by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS).<br><br>RESULTS: Children's mean MnB and MnH were 8.2 &#x3bc;g/L (2.7-23.4) and 5.83 &#x3bc;g/g (0.1-86.68), respectively. Mean maternal MnH was 3.50 &#x3bc;g/g (0.10-77.45) and correlated to children's MnH (rho=0.294, p=0.010). Children's MnH was negatively related to Full-Scale Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and Verbal IQ; &#x3b2; coefficients for MnH were -5.78 (95% CI -10.71 to -0.21) and -6.72 (-11.81 to -0.63), adjusted for maternal education and nutritional status. Maternal MnH was negatively associated with performance on the Raven's (&#x3b2;=-2.69, 95% CI -5.43 to 0.05), adjusted for education years, family income and age.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: These findings confirm that high MnH in children is associated with poorer cognitive performance, especially in the verbal domain. Primary caregiver's IQ is likewise associated to Mn exposure, suggesting that, in this situation, children's cognition may be affected directly and indirectly by Mn exposure.}, }
@article {pmid20942587, year = {2010}, author = {Katsarou, Z and Bostantjopoulou, S and Zikouli, A and Kazazi, E and Kafantari, A and Tsipropoulou, V and Kourtesi, G and Peitsidou, E}, title = {Performance of Greek demented and nondemented subjects on the Greek version of the Mattis Dementia Rating Scale. A validation study.}, journal = {The International journal of neuroscience}, volume = {120}, number = {11}, pages = {724-730}, doi = {10.3109/00207454.2010.518779}, pmid = {20942587}, issn = {1563-5279}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Alzheimer Disease/*psychology ; Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/epidemiology ; Female ; Greece ; Humans ; Language ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/*psychology ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales/*standards ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {A translated version of the Mattis Dementia Rating Scale (DRS) into Greek ((DRS-GR) was applied to a sample of Greek population (N = 356) comprising normal middle-aged and elderly subjects (controls), as well as patients suffering from Parkinson's (PD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) to test its reliability and validity. A well-known dementia screening instrument, the Mini Mental State Examination test (MMSE), and a nonverbal measure of abstract reasoning, the Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices, were employed as measures of DRS-GR concurrent validity. Reliability analysis was satisfactory with Cronbach's alpha reaching 0.82 and item to total correlations yielding high coefficients for most items. DRS-GR scores were influenced by age and education, but not by gender. Correlation between MMSE and the total DRS-GR score was significant in patients and normal controls, but correlation between DRS-GR and RCPM was significant in AD and nondemented PD only. Specificity and sensitivity for dementia screening, calculated on a Receiver Operating Characteristic curve, with a cut-off score the mean value minus two standard deviations, corrected for age and education, was 96% and 80%, respectively. Our preliminary findings show that DRS-GR is a reliable and well-adapted instrument for clinical application in the Greek population.}, }
@article {pmid20923605, year = {2010}, author = {Ciancarelli, I and Cofini, V and Carolei, A}, title = {Evaluation of neuropsychological functions in patients with Friedreich ataxia before and after cognitive therapy.}, journal = {Functional neurology}, volume = {25}, number = {2}, pages = {81-85}, pmid = {20923605}, issn = {0393-5264}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Cognition Disorders/etiology/*rehabilitation ; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/*methods ; Female ; Friedreich Ataxia/complications/diagnosis/*rehabilitation ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Mood Disorders/etiology/*rehabilitation ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; Treatment Outcome ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Friedreich ataxia (FA) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive nervous system damage resulting in severe disability. Cognitive functions and mood disorders in FA have been studied little and with conflicting results. The aim of this study was to investigate cognitive functions and mood disorders in FA subjects and the role of cognitive rehabilitation therapy (sequential treatments) performed during a scheduled study period. The executive functions of 24 subjects with FA were evaluated over one year during three separate periods of in-hospital rehabilitation. The neuropsychological evaluations performed before and after cognitive therapy did not reveal differences in the mean test scores of the MMSE, the Rey 15-item Memorization Test for long-term memory, Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, the Phonemic Verbal Fluency Test, the Symbol Digit Modalities Test, or the Zung scale. The mean scores of the Stroop color-word interference task and of the Rey 15-item Memorization Test for short-term memory were increased at the final evaluation. This finding of long-lasting stability of neuropsychological test scores is noteworthy, as it suggests that one-year cognitive rehabilitation therapy (sequential treatments) may at least contribute to reducing cognitive decline. A cognitive rehabilitation therapy in addition to the conventional neuromotor rehabilitation treatment may improve the management of subjects with FA.}, }
@article {pmid20923458, year = {2010}, author = {Pena Ferreira, MR and Costa, PC and Bahia, FM}, title = {Efficacy of anti-wrinkle products in skin surface appearance: a comparative study using non-invasive methods.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {444-449}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-0846.2010.00458.x}, pmid = {20923458}, issn = {1600-0846}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Cosmetics ; Dermoscopy/instrumentation/*methods ; Dimethylpolysiloxanes/therapeutic use ; Emollients/*therapeutic use ; Ethylene Glycols ; Excipients/therapeutic use ; Female ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/instrumentation/*methods ; Middle Aged ; Myristates/therapeutic use ; Parabens ; Paraffin/therapeutic use ; Preservatives, Pharmaceutical ; Skin Aging/*drug effects/*pathology ; Software ; Sulfonylurea Compounds/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Age has a huge influence on skin roughness; with increasing age, the number of collagen and elastine fibers is reduced and elasticity decreases significantly. Pharmaceutical and cosmetics, environmental factors and lifestyle have an important effect on skin. In this study, the efficacy of 12 commercial anti-wrinkle products was evaluated using a direct non-invasive method to measure the skin surface morphology. Four clinical parameters surface evaluation of the living skin (SELS) (Ser, Sesc, Sesm, and Sew) were evaluate using Visioscan(®) VC98.<br><br>METHODS: Two hundred and forty-eight healthy female volunteers, aged between 30 and 70 years, were chosen for this study. The duration of treatment was 28 days. Skin microrelief parameters were evaluated using the Visioscan(&#xae;) VC98 - SELS 2000 from Courage+Khazaka. Measurements were made in the crow's feet area and the differences were evaluated for statistical significance.<br><br>RESULTS: Significant differences were found for some of the SELS parameters. According to the results obtained for SELS Sew, products that showed to be more effective against aging were V, M, N, T, P, R and L. We think this methodology may be considered very useful for the direct study of the skin surface and may be suitable as a routine method in wrinkle evaluation.}, }
@article {pmid20886710, year = {2010}, author = {Korotetskiĭ, IS and Bogoiavlenskiĭ, AP and Prilipov, AG and Usachev, EV and Usacheva, OV and Turgambetova, AS and Zaĭtseva, IA and Kydyrmanov, A and Shakhvorostova, LI and Saiatov, MKh and Borisov, VV and Pchelkina, IP and Gerilovich, AP and Berezin, VE}, title = {[Molecular genetic characteristics of the newcastle disease virus velogenic strains isolated in Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Kirghizia].}, journal = {Voprosy virusologii}, volume = {55}, number = {4}, pages = {29-32}, pmid = {20886710}, issn = {0507-4088}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/virology ; Genes, Viral/genetics ; Kazakhstan/epidemiology ; Kyrgyzstan/epidemiology ; Molecular Epidemiology ; Newcastle Disease/*epidemiology/virology ; Newcastle disease virus/classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Phylogeny ; Russia/epidemiology ; Ukraine/epidemiology ; Viral Fusion Proteins/*genetics ; }, abstract = {The F gene fragment of 79 Newcastle disease virus (NDV) strains isolated from domestic and synanthropic birds in Kazakhstan, Kirghizia, Ukraine, and Russia in 1993 to 2007 was comparatively analyzed. Phylogenetic analysis of test isolates and reference NDV strains obtained from the GenBank was carried out by polymerase chain reaction with subsequent sequencing and comparative analysis of 154-bp nucleotide sequences in the main functional region of the F gene. All newly characterized isolates belong to three NDV genotype VII subgroups: VIIa, VIIb, VIId. The results show it necessary to monitor of NDV strains isolated in the CIS countries since the spread of NDV among migratory and synanthropic birds (pigeons, crows, and jackdaws) poses a serious threat to commercial poultry industry.}, }
@article {pmid20881811, year = {2010}, author = {Grecchi, F and Zingari, F and Bianco, R and Zollino, I and Casadio, C and Carinci, F}, title = {Implant rehabilitation in grafted and native bone in patients affected by ectodermal dysplasia: evaluation of 78 implants inserted in 8 patients.}, journal = {Implant dentistry}, volume = {19}, number = {5}, pages = {400-408}, doi = {10.1097/ID.0b013e3181e40609}, pmid = {20881811}, issn = {1538-2982}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Alveolar Bone Loss/etiology ; Bone Remodeling/physiology ; *Bone Transplantation ; Crowns ; Dental Abutments ; Dental Arch/surgery ; *Dental Implants ; Dental Prosthesis Design ; Dental Restoration Failure ; Ectodermal Dysplasia/rehabilitation/*surgery ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Mandible/surgery ; Maxilla/surgery ; Middle Aged ; Retrospective Studies ; Sex Factors ; Survival Analysis ; Treatment Outcome ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Ectodermal dysplasia (ED) is a congenital syndrome characterized chiefly by abnormalities of tissues of ectodermal origin, namely skin, nails, hair, and teeth. Dental treatment of patients with ED is necessary, because it affords the opportunity to develop normal forms of speech, chewing, swallowing, and normal facial support. Because there are few reports focusing on implants inserted in bone grafted in patients affected by ED. This is a retrospective study of 78 implants inserted in 8 patients to detect those variables acting on survival and crestal bone remodeling around the implant neck in such subjects.<br><br>MATERIALS: Seventy-eight fixtures were analyzed. Several patient-related (age and gender), anatomical (maxilla and mandible, tooth site), implant (type, length, and diameter), surgical (sites and types of grafts), and prosthetic (type of loading and implant/crow ratio) variables were investigated. Implant failure and peri-implant bone resorption were considered as predictors of clinical outcome. Kaplan-Meier algorithm and Cox regression were then performed to detect those variables statistically associated with the clinical outcome.<br><br>RESULTS: Implant length and diameter ranged from 11.5 to 18 mm and from 3.5 to 6.0 mm, respectively. Implants were inserted to replace 19 incisors, 19 cuspids, 21 premolars, and 19 molars. One implant was lost. On the contrary, implant' length, grafted sites, and type of loading have an impact on univariate analysis, but this datum was not confirmed by multivariate algorithm.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The use of dental implants and bone grafts to orally rehabilitate patients affected by ED is a valuable service with no difference in the results compared with unaffected patients, at least in adults.}, }
@article {pmid20870617, year = {2010}, author = {Ke, Y and Huang, Y and Lei, FM}, title = {[Sequencing and analysis of the complete mitochondrial genome of Podoces hendersoni (Ave, Corvidae)].}, journal = {Yi chuan = Hereditas}, volume = {32}, number = {9}, pages = {951-960}, pmid = {20870617}, issn = {0253-9772}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; China ; Codon ; DNA, Mitochondrial/*analysis ; Genome, Mitochondrial/*genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Nucleic Acid Conformation ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal/*chemistry ; RNA, Transfer/analysis ; RNA, Transfer, Ser/chemistry/genetics ; }, abstract = {The complete mitochondrial genome of a China endemic bird, Podoces hendersoni, was sequenced using La-PCR and conserved primer walking approaches. The mtDNA seqnence is 16 867 bp in length and deposited in GenBank with accession number GU592504. The mitochondrial genomic organization of P. hendersoni is the same with that in chicken, which contains 13 protein coding genes (PCGs), 22 tRNA, 2 rRNA, and a control region. Except for COI gene, which uses GTG as the initiation codon, all other 12 PCGs of the P. hendersoni mtDNA start with the typical ATG codon. Codons TAA, AGG, and AGA were used in 11 PCGs as usual termination codons; however, the COIII and ND4 had incomplete termination codon T. The secondary structures of 20 tRNAs formed typical cloverleaf, except for tRNASer (AGY) that had an absence of the DHU arm and tRNALeu (CUN) in which anticodon-loop consisted of 9 bases, rather than the standard 7 bases. The secondary structures of rRNA were predicted. There are 4 domains, 43 helices structures in 12S rRNA, and 6 domains, 55 helices structures in 16S rRNA. Besides, F-box, D-box, C-box, B-box, Bird similarity-box and CSB1-box, which were found in the control region of other birds, also existed in the P. hendersoni.}, }
@article {pmid20866834, year = {2010}, author = {Ancliff, M and Park, JM}, title = {Optimal mutation rates in dynamic environments: The Eigen model.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {82}, number = {2 Pt 1}, pages = {021904}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.82.021904}, pmid = {20866834}, issn = {1550-2376}, abstract = {We consider the Eigen quasispecies model with a dynamic environment. For an environment with sharp-peak fitness in which the most-fit sequence moves by k spin-flips each period T we find an asymptotic stationary state in which the quasispecies population changes regularly according to the regular environmental change. From this stationary state we estimate the maximum and the minimum mutation rates for a quasispecies to survive under the changing environment and calculate the optimum mutation rate that maximizes the population growth. Interestingly we find that the optimum mutation rate in the Eigen model is lower than that in the Crow-Kimura model, and at their optimum mutation rates the corresponding mean fitness in the eigenmodel is lower than that in the Crow-Kimura model, suggesting that the mutation process which occurs in parallel to the replication process as in the Crow-Kimura model gives an adaptive advantage under changing environment.}, }
@article {pmid20866645, year = {2010}, author = {Kirakosyan, Z and Saakian, DB and Hu, CK}, title = {Evolution models with lethal mutations on symmetric or random fitness landscapes.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {82}, number = {1 Pt 1}, pages = {011904}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.82.011904}, pmid = {20866645}, issn = {1550-2376}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; *Models, Genetic ; Models, Statistical ; Mutation/*genetics ; Survival Analysis ; Survival Rate ; }, abstract = {We calculate the mean fitness for evolution models, when the fitness is a function of the Hamming distance from a reference sequence, and there is a probability that this fitness is nullified (Eigen model case) or tends to the negative infinity (Crow-Kimura model case). We calculate the mean fitness of these models. The mean fitness is calculated also for the random fitnesses with logarithmic-normal distribution, reasonably describing sometimes the situation with RNA viruses.}, }
@article {pmid20865838, year = {2010}, author = {Hevia, O}, title = {Retrospective review of 500 patients treated with abobotulinumtoxinA.}, journal = {Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD}, volume = {9}, number = {9}, pages = {1081-1084}, pmid = {20865838}, issn = {1545-9616}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Blepharoptosis/chemically induced ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Cosmetic Techniques ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Retrospective Studies ; Treatment Outcome ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Prior international clinical experience and domestic controlled clinical trials provide useful guidance for dosing of a new botulinum toxin type A, abobotulinumtoxinA. Nonetheless, aftermarket experience is paramount in providing confirmatory "real world" information on any recently introduced drug. This report describes the incorporation of abobotulinumtoxinA into an established clinical practice that previously only utilized onabotulinumtoxinA for facial rejuvenation.<br><br>DESCRIPTION: Retrospective review of 500 patients who received abobotulinumtoxinA injections.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 736 abobotulinumtoxinA treatments were administered to 500 patients. The most common areas treated were corrugators, "crow's feet", frontalis, brow and platysma, respectively. A dose conversion ratio of 1:2.67 (onabotulinumtoxinA: abobotulinumtoxinA) was determined. The majority of adverse events were considered to be mild and self-limiting. There were three (0.6%) cases of ptosis.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Since its recent approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), experience with abobotulinumtoxinA is evolving. Utilizing a dose conversion ratio of 1:2.67 units (onabotulinumtoxinA: abobotulinumtoxinA) and the same injection techniques, one can safely and effectively incorporate this new neurotoxin into his or her practice.}, }
@article {pmid20861574, year = {2010}, author = {Li, MH and Merilä, J}, title = {Avian Z-specific microsatellites map to pseudoautosomal or autosomal chromosomes in the Siberian jay (Perisoreus infaustus): insights into avian genome evolution from cross-species amplification tests.}, journal = {Journal of genetics}, volume = {89}, number = {2}, pages = {223-228}, pmid = {20861574}, issn = {0973-7731}, mesh = {Alleles ; Animals ; Chickens/genetics ; Chromosome Mapping ; DNA Primers ; Evolution, Molecular ; Female ; Genetic Loci/*genetics ; Genotype ; Hybridization, Genetic ; Male ; Microsatellite Repeats/*genetics ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Polymorphism, Genetic/genetics ; }, }
@article {pmid20852867, year = {2011}, author = {Suthers, RA and Wild, JM and Kaplan, G}, title = {Mechanisms of song production in the Australian magpie.}, journal = {Journal of comparative physiology. A, Neuroethology, sensory, neural, and behavioral physiology}, volume = {197}, number = {1}, pages = {45-59}, pmid = {20852867}, issn = {1432-1351}, support = {R01 NS029467/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Acoustics ; Animals ; Female ; Functional Laterality ; Male ; Nonlinear Dynamics ; Phonation/*physiology ; Respiratory Mechanics/*physiology ; Songbirds/*physiology ; Sound Spectrography ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen) are notable for their vocal prowess. We investigated the syringeal and respiratory dynamics of vocalization by two 6-month-old males, whose songs had a number of adult features. There was no strong lateral syringeal dominance and unilateral phonation was most often achieved by closing the syringeal valve on the contralateral side of the syrinx. Unlike other songbirds studied, magpies sometimes used an alternative syringeal motor pattern during unilateral phonation in which both sides of the syrinx are partially adducted and open to airflow. Also, in contrast to most other songbirds, the higher fundamental frequency during two-voice syllables was usually generated on the left side of the syrinx. Amplitude modulation, a prominent feature of magpie song, was produced by linear or nonlinear interactions between different frequencies which may originate either on opposite sides of the syrinx or on the same side. Pulse tones, similar to vocal fry in human speech, were present in some calls. Unlike small songbirds, the fundamental of the modal frequency can be as low as that of the pulse tone, suggesting that large birds may have evolved pulse tones to increase acoustic diversity, rather than decrease the fundamental frequency.}, }
@article {pmid20850602, year = {2010}, author = {Halayem, S and Bouden, A and Halayem, MB and Tabbane, K and Amado, I and Krebs, MO}, title = {[Neurological soft signs in pervasive developmental disorders].}, journal = {L'Encephale}, volume = {36}, number = {4}, pages = {307-313}, doi = {10.1016/j.encep.2009.12.012}, pmid = {20850602}, issn = {0013-7006}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Child Development Disorders, Pervasive/*diagnosis/psychology ; Comorbidity ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Motor Skills Disorders/*diagnosis/psychology ; Nervous System Diseases/*diagnosis/psychology ; Neurologic Examination/*methods ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Many studies have focused on specific motor signs in autism and Asperger's syndrome, but few has been published on the complete range of neurological soft signs (NSS) in children with pervasive developmental disorder (PDD). Scarce are the studies evaluating NSS in children suffering from PDD not otherwise specified (PDDNOS).<br><br>METHODS: This study compared performance of 11 autistic children (AD) and 10 children with PDDNOS, with controls matched on age, sex and cognitive performance on Krebs et al.'s NSS scale. Because of the duration of the assessments and specific difficulties encountered in managing some items, an adaptation of the scale had to be made during a pilot study with the agreement of the author. To be eligible, patients had to meet the following inclusion criteria: an age range of 6-16 years, a diagnosis of autistic disorder or PDDNOS based on the DSM&#xa0;IV criteria (American Psychiatric Association 1994). The autism diagnostic interview-revised (ADI-R) was used in order to confirm the diagnosis and to evaluate the association of the symptoms to the severity of the NSS. The childhood autism rating scale (CARS) was completed for the patients in order to evaluate symptoms at the time of the NSS examination. Cognitive ability was assessed with Raven's progressive matrices. Were excluded patients with: history of cerebral palsy, congenital anomaly of the central nervous system, epilepsy, known genetic syndrome, tuberous sclerosis, neurofibromatosis, antecedent of severe head trauma, Asperger's syndrome, obvious physical deformities or sensory deficits that would interfere with neurological assessment, deep mental retardation and recent or chronic substance use or abuse. Healthy controls shared the same exclusion criteria, with no personal history of neurological, psychiatric disorder or substance abuse, no family history of psychiatric disorder and normal or retardation in schooling. All study procedures were approved by the local Ethics Committee (Comit&#xe9; d'&#xe9;thique, Razi Hospital), according to the declaration of Helsinki.<br><br>RESULTS: There was no difference between patients and controls with respect to sex, age and cognitive function. All children had an IQ higher than 81. Significant differences were found between AD children and control group in the motor integration function and sensory integration function. Different NSS scores were significantly higher in the PDDNOS group than in controls: the total scores, motor coordination, motor integration function, sensory integration and abnormal movements. Lower performance in motor coordination skills was associated with higher ADI-R communication score in the AD group. No relationship was found between NSS and CARS' total sore.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study confirms the impaired neurological functioning in autistic as well as PDDNOS children. The association of motor impairment with autistic symptoms highlights the argument that motor control problems can be part of the autism spectrum disorders. The lack of relationship between NSS and intellectual aptitude in the clinical sample provides new elements for the neurodevelopment model of the autism spectrum.}, }
@article {pmid20847768, year = {2010}, author = {Cooper, ML and Gupta, G and Schneider, MA and Green, WM and Assefa, S and Xia, F and Gifford, DK and Mookherjea, S}, title = {Waveguide dispersion effects in silicon-on-insulator coupled-resonator optical waveguides.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {35}, number = {18}, pages = {3030-3032}, doi = {10.1364/OL.35.003030}, pmid = {20847768}, issn = {1539-4794}, abstract = {The dispersion of the waveguides that constitute microring resonators can considerably affect the dispersion characteristics of coupled-resonator optical waveguides (CROWs). We derive expressions for CROW dispersion and group delay for silicon-on-insulator microring CROWs, showing both theoretically and experimentally the band-to-band dependence of the bandwidth and group delay on the dispersion properties of the constituent single-mode silicon waveguide.}, }
@article {pmid20847272, year = {2010}, author = {Rutz, C and Bluff, LA and Reed, N and Troscianko, J and Newton, J and Inger, R and Kacelnik, A and Bearhop, S}, title = {The ecological significance of tool use in New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {329}, number = {5998}, pages = {1523-1526}, doi = {10.1126/science.1192053}, pmid = {20847272}, issn = {1095-9203}, support = {BB/C517392/1//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/G023913/1//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Aleurites ; Animals ; Bayes Theorem ; Carbon Isotopes/analysis/blood ; Coleoptera ; Crows/*physiology ; Diet ; Feathers/chemistry ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Larva ; Male ; New Caledonia ; Nitrogen Isotopes/analysis/blood ; Nuts ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Tool use is so rare in the animal kingdom that its evolutionary origins cannot be traced with comparative analyses. Valuable insights can be gained from investigating the ecological context and adaptive significance of tool use under contemporary conditions, but obtaining robust observational data is challenging. We assayed individual-level tool-use dependence in wild New Caledonian crows by analyzing stable isotope profiles of the birds' feathers, blood, and putative food sources. Bayesian diet-mixing models revealed that a substantial amount of the crows' protein and lipid intake comes from prey obtained with stick tools--wood-boring beetle larvae. Our calculations provide estimates of larva-intake rates and show that just a few larvae can satisfy a crow's daily energy requirements, highlighting the substantial rewards available to competent tool users.}, }
@article {pmid20838837, year = {2011}, author = {Tornick, JK and Gibson, BM and Kispert, D and Wilkinson, M}, title = {Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana) use gestures to identify the location of hidden food.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {117-125}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-010-0349-2}, pmid = {20838837}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; Feeding Behavior ; *Passeriformes ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Heterospecific cues, such as gaze direction and body position, may be an important source of information that an animal can use to infer the location of resources like food. The use of heterospecific cues has been largely investigated using primates, dogs, and other mammals; less is known about whether birds can also use heterospecific gestures. We tested six Clark's nutcrackers in a two-way object-choice task using touch, point, and gaze cues to investigate whether these birds can use human gestures to find food. Most of the birds were able to use a touch gesture during the first trial of testing and were able to learn to use point and gaze (eyes and head alternation) cues after a limited number of trials. This study is the first to test a non-social corvid on the object-choice task. The performance of non-social nutcrackers is similar to that of more social and related corvids, suggesting that species with different evolutionary histories can utilize gestural information.}, }
@article {pmid20832314, year = {2010}, author = {Endler, JA and Endler, LC and Doerr, NR}, title = {Great bowerbirds create theaters with forced perspective when seen by their audience.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {20}, number = {18}, pages = {1679-1684}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2010.08.033}, pmid = {20832314}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Male ; *Passeriformes ; *Sexual Behavior, Animal ; *Vision, Ocular ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Birds in the infraorder Corvida [1] (ravens, jays, bowerbirds) are renowned for their cognitive abilities [2-4], which include advanced problem solving with spatial inference [4-8], tool use and complex constructions [7-10], and bowerbird cognitive ability is associated with mating success [11]. Great bowerbird males construct bowers with a long avenue from within which females view the male displaying over his bower court [10]. This predictable audience viewpoint is a prerequisite for forced (altered) visual perspective [12-14]. Males make courts with gray and white objects that increase in size with distance from the avenue entrance. This gradient creates forced visual perspective for the audience; court object visual angles subtended on the female viewer's eye are more uniform than if the objects were placed at random. Forced perspective can yield false perception of size and distance [12, 15]. After experimental reversal of their size-distance gradient, males recovered their gradients within 3 days, and there was little difference from the original after 2 wks. Variation among males in their forced-perspective quality as seen by their female audience indicates that visual perspective is available for use in mate choice, perhaps as an indicator of cognitive ability. Regardless of function, the creation and maintenance of forced visual perspective is clearly important to great bowerbirds and suggests the possibility of a previously unknown dimension of bird cognition.}, }
@article {pmid20829410, year = {2010}, author = {Smania, N and Gandolfi, M and Aglioti, SM and Girardi, P and Fiaschi, A and Girardi, F}, title = {How long is the recovery of global aphasia? Twenty-five years of follow-up in a patient with left hemisphere stroke.}, journal = {Neurorehabilitation and neural repair}, volume = {24}, number = {9}, pages = {871-875}, doi = {10.1177/1545968310368962}, pmid = {20829410}, issn = {1552-6844}, mesh = {Aphasia/etiology/physiopathology/*rehabilitation ; Cerebral Infarction/complications/physiopathology/*rehabilitation ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Infarction, Middle Cerebral Artery/complications/physiopathology/*rehabilitation ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Recovery of Function/*physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Current knowledge regarding the time course of aphasia recovery is based on observations limited to the first years after stroke.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The authors studied long-term outcome (25 years) of language in a patient with global aphasia.<br><br>METHODS: A 37-year-old man with global aphasia from a large ischemic lesion in the left middle cerebral artery territory was tested 9 times between 3 weeks and 25 years poststroke by means of the Milan Language Examination, Token Test, Raven Test, and apraxia tests.<br><br>RESULTS: Three main periods of recovery were identified. The first year after stroke was characterized by recovery of verbal comprehension and word repetition. From 1 to 3 years, naming and reading improved. From 3 to 25 years, progressive improvement of previously emerged functions was found, as well as the appearance of spontaneous speech.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This unique long-term follow-up shows that the time span for recovery of language functions in global aphasia after stroke may be much longer than previously documented.}, }
@article {pmid20826480, year = {2011}, author = {Bugnyar, T}, title = {Knower-guesser differentiation in ravens: others' viewpoints matter.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {278}, number = {1705}, pages = {634-640}, pmid = {20826480}, issn = {1471-2954}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Association Learning ; Competitive Behavior/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Discrimination Learning/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory/physiology ; Observation ; }, abstract = {Differentiating between individuals with different knowledge states is an important step in child development and has been considered as a hallmark in human evolution. Recently, primates and corvids have been reported to pass knower-guesser tasks, raising the possibility of mental attribution skills in non-human animals. Yet, it has been difficult to distinguish 'mind-reading' from behaviour-reading alternatives, specifically the use of behavioural cues and/or the application of associatively learned rules. Here, I show that ravens (Corvus corax) observing an experimenter hiding food are capable of predicting the behaviour of bystanders that had been visible at both, none or just one of two caching events. Manipulating the competitors' visual field independently of the view of the test-subject resulted in an instant drop in performance, whereas controls for behavioural cues had no such effect. These findings indicate that ravens not only remember whom they have seen at caching but also take into account that the other's view was blocked. Notably, it does not suffice for the birds to associate specific competitors with specific caches. These results support the idea that certain socio-ecological conditions may select for similar cognitive abilities in distantly related species and that some birds have evolved analogous precursors to a human theory-of-mind.}, }
@article {pmid20814861, year = {2010}, author = {Robino, P and Tomassone, L and Tramuta, C and Rodo, M and Giammarino, M and Vaschetti, G and Nebbia, P}, title = {Prevalence of Campylobacter jejuni, Campylobacter coli and enteric Helicobacter in domestic and free living birds in North-Western Italy.}, journal = {Schweizer Archiv fur Tierheilkunde}, volume = {152}, number = {9}, pages = {425-431}, doi = {10.1024/0036-7281/a000094}, pmid = {20814861}, issn = {0036-7281}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/microbiology ; Birds/classification/genetics/*microbiology ; Campylobacter Infections/epidemiology/veterinary ; Campylobacter coli/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Campylobacter jejuni/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Helicobacter/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Helicobacter Infections/epidemiology/veterinary ; Italy ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Poultry/*microbiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {In order to investigate the prevalence of some thermophilic Campylobacter (C. jejuni and C. coli) and enteric Helicobacter (H. pullorum and H. canadensis) in domestic and wild birds, a total of 278 bird caecal samples were analyzed over a 2 year period in North-Western Italy. Samples were collected from poultry raised in intensive farming at the slaughterhouse (n=102, group A) and in small scale rural farms (n=60, group B) as well as from wild birds (n=116, group C). PCR amplifications were carried out on DNA extracted from caecal samples. Molecular assays targeted the hipO gene for C. jejuni, the asp gene for C. coli and the 16S rRNA gene of H. pullorum/H. canadensis. To differentiate H. pullorum from H. canadensis, PCR products were subjected to an ApaLI digestion assay. Prevalence of thermophilic Campylobacter and enteric Helicobacter was significantly different among groups (p<0.0001). Campylobacter infections were detected in all three bird groups (78.4% group A, 18.3% group B and 38.8% group C, respectively), Helicobacter infections were only detected in poultry, with H. pullorum infecting 68.6% of group A and 21.7% of group B birds. H. canadensis was detected in Guinea fowls (group A) and for the first time in pheasants (group B). Mixed infections by enteric Campylobacter and Helicobacter were shown in 53.9% of group A and in 5.0 % of group B. Our results show that both microorganisms commonly infect poultry, especially intensive farming animals. Only hooded crows among the wild bird group (group C), proved to be highly sensitive to Campylobacter infection.}, }
@article {pmid20814805, year = {2011}, author = {Liedtke, J and Werdenich, D and Gajdon, GK and Huber, L and Wanker, R}, title = {Big brains are not enough: performance of three parrot species in the trap-tube paradigm.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {143-149}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-010-0347-4}, pmid = {20814805}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology ; *Cognition ; Inhibition, Psychological ; Intelligence ; *Parrots ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The trap-tube task has become a benchmark test for investigating physical causality in vertebrates. In this task, subjects have to retrieve food out of a horizontal tube using a tool and avoiding a trap hole in the tube. Great apes and corvids succeeded in this task. Parrots with relative brain volumes comparable to those of corvids and primates also demonstrate high cognitive abilities. We therefore tested macaws, a cockatoo, and keas on the trap-tube paradigm. All nine parrots failed to solve the task. In a simplified task, trap tubes with a slot inserted along the top were offered. The slot allowed the birds to move the reward directly with their bills. All but one individual solved this task by lifting the food over the trap. However, the parrots failed again when they were prevented from lifting the reward, although they anticipated that food will be lost when moved into the trap. We do not think that the demanding use of an external object is the main reason for the parrots' failure. Moreover, we suppose these parrots fail to consider the trap's position in the beginning of a trial and were not able to stop their behaviour and move the reward in the trap's opposite direction.}, }
@article {pmid20812884, year = {2011}, author = {Chowdhury, SD and Ghosh, T}, title = {Nutritional and socioeconomic status in cognitive development of Santal children of Purulia district, India.}, journal = {Annals of human biology}, volume = {38}, number = {2}, pages = {188-193}, doi = {10.3109/03014460.2010.506887}, pmid = {20812884}, issn = {1464-5033}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Body Height ; Body Weight ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Female ; Growth and Development ; Humans ; India ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Nutrition Assessment ; Nutritional Status/*ethnology ; Social Class ; *Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cognitive development of children depends on nutritional and socioeconomic factors.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The objectives of the present study were to assess the cognitive development and to investigate the relationship of nutritional and socioeconomic status (SES) to cognitive development in 5-12 year old Santal children of Purulia district of West Bengal, India.<br><br>METHODS: The nutritional status of each child was assessed by z-score of height-for-age, weight-for-height and weight-for-age parameters. SES was measured using the updated Kuppusswami scale. Cognitive development was measured by Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM).<br><br>RESULTS: The growth curve of RCPM scores of Santal children remained around the 5(th) percentile values of British children. The RCPM scores of the adequately nourished children and upper-lower SES were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the children with lower SES and nutritional status. About 42.96% and 27.69% of Santal children were found to be in the intellectually deficient and below average groups, respectively. RCPM scores of Santal children were significantly correlated with nutritional status and socioeconomic factors (p < 0.01).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The surveyed children showed poor cognitive functions. The vulnerable nutritional and socioeconomic statuses of Santal children are the major causes for their poor cognitive development.}, }
@article {pmid20809128, year = {2011}, author = {Yoshiura, T and Hiwatashi, A and Yamashita, K and Ohyagi, Y and Monji, A and Takayama, Y and Kamano, N and Kawashima, T and Kira, J and Honda, H}, title = {Deterioration of abstract reasoning ability in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease: correlation with regional grey matter volume loss revealed by diffeomorphic anatomical registration through exponentiated lie algebra analysis.}, journal = {European radiology}, volume = {21}, number = {2}, pages = {419-425}, pmid = {20809128}, issn = {1432-1084}, mesh = {Alzheimer Disease/complications/*pathology ; Cognition Disorders/complications/*diagnosis ; Dementia/complications/*pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/*methods ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neurons/*pathology ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; *Subtraction Technique ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine which brain regions are relevant to deterioration in abstract reasoning as measured by Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (CPM) in the context of dementia.<br><br>METHODS: MR images of 37 consecutive patients including 19 with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and 18 with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were administered the CPM. Regional grey matter (GM) volume was evaluated according to the regimens of voxel-based morphometry, during which a non-linear registration algorithm called Diffeomorphic Anatomical Registration Through Exponentiated Lie algebra was employed. Multiple regression analyses were used to map the regions where GM volumes were correlated with CPM scores.<br><br>RESULTS: The strongest correlation with CPM scores was seen in the left middle frontal gyrus while a region with the largest volume was identified in the left superior temporal gyrus. Significant correlations were seen in 14 additional regions in the bilateral cerebral hemispheres and right cerebellum.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Deterioration of abstract reasoning ability in AD and aMCI measured by CPM is related to GM loss in multiple regions, which is in close agreement with the results of previous activation studies.}, }
@article {pmid20807260, year = {2011}, author = {Sohm, B and Cenizo, V and André, V and Zahouani, H and Pailler-Mattei, C and Vogelgesang, B}, title = {Evaluation of the efficacy of a dill extract in vitro and in vivo.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {33}, number = {2}, pages = {157-163}, doi = {10.1111/j.1468-2494.2010.00606.x}, pmid = {20807260}, issn = {1468-2494}, mesh = {Adult ; Anethum graveolens/*chemistry ; Double-Blind Method ; Elasticity/drug effects ; Epidermis/*drug effects/enzymology ; Female ; Fibroblasts/drug effects/enzymology ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Patient Satisfaction ; Plant Extracts/*pharmacology ; Protein-Lysine 6-Oxidase/metabolism ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Skin Physiological Phenomena/*drug effects ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {Lysyl oxidase-like (LOXL) is an extracellular enzyme that catalyses the cross-linking between microfibrils and tropoelastin (TE), thereby ensuring elastic fibre functionality. With ageing, LOXL expression decreases, thus participating in the loss of skin elasticity. In a previous study, we showed that a dill seed extract [INCI name: Peucedanum graveolens (Dill) extract] could increase LOXL expression in cultured dermal fibroblasts. Besides, we showed a good correlation between the measurements of skin elasticity obtained in vitro and in vivo using a fully automated bio-tribometer designed to measure the biomechanical properties of soft and complex materials like skin. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of the dill extract to improve skin elasticity in vitro and in vivo using different models. Using the bio-tribometer, we first showed that the lateral elasticity of dermis equivalents (DEs) treated with the dill extract at 1% was significantly increased by +29% (P < 0.01) when compared to untreated DEs. In vivo, skin firmness and elastic recovery measured using cutometry methods were also significantly improved compared to placebo in volunteers treated for 56 days with a formula containing 1% of dill extract. Moreover, the clinical evaluation evidenced significant improvements in 'skin elasticity' compared to placebo. A majority of subjects treated with the dill extract also noted significant improvements in skin elasticity, firmness and slackness of the jaw line. Finally, mean wrinkle area and length were also significantly reduced compared to placebo after 84 days as measured using silicone replicas taken from the crow's feet. In summary, this study showed that the dill extract could improve elasticity of DEs in vitro as well as skin biomechanical properties and appearance in vivo. It also highlights the relevance of using the bio-tribometer as an exploratory tool for the measurement of skin elasticity in vitro.}, }
@article {pmid20803922, year = {2009}, author = {Bogale, A and Abebe, Y and Stoecker, BJ and Abuye, C and Ketema, K and Hambidge, KM}, title = {Iodine status and cognitive function of women and their five year-old children in rural Sidama, southern Ethiopia.}, journal = {East African journal of public health}, volume = {6}, number = {3}, pages = {296-299}, pmid = {20803922}, issn = {0856-8960}, support = {R21 TW06729/TW/FIC NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*drug effects/physiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Ethiopia/epidemiology ; Female ; Goiter/*classification/epidemiology ; Humans ; Iodine/administration &amp; dosage/*deficiency/*urine ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Nutritional Status ; Rural Population ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Iodine deficiency is one of the most common micronutrient deficiencies worldwide and is a major cause of preventable mental retardation. The purpose of this study was to assess the iodine status and cognitive function of women of childbearing age and their five-year-old children.<br><br>METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a rural village in southern Ethiopia. A convenience sample of one hundred women and their five year-old children participated in the study. Goiter grade, urinary iodine excretion, Raven's CPM and cognitive tests from the Kaufman ABC-II, were administered to the women and their children.<br><br>RESULTS: The use of iodized salt was only 2%. The mean iodine content of water in and around the study area was 4.46 microg/l. Occurrence of goiter was 85% in the women and 33% in children. Urinary iodine excretion for all participants was <49 microg/L, the top of the range for moderate iodine deficiency. The median urinary iodine excretion (UIE) was 1 microg/L for both mothers and children. For children, measures of short term memory (Sequential index) were correlated with the visual processing (Simultaneous index) (r = 0.49, p < 0.0001). Goiter and urinary iodine excretion were correlated to Sequential index (r = 0.39, p = 0.0011 and r = 0.2, p = 0.05) respectively, but not to the Simultaneous index for children. Sequential (r = 0.21, p = 0.03) and Simultaneous (r = 0.29, p = 0.004) indices of mothers and children were correlated.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The high prevalence of goiter and the low urinary iodine excretion demonstrate serious long- and short-term iodine deficiency in the study area. Relations between measures of iodine status and short term memory in children raise concern about potential functional effects of iodine deficiency.}, }
@article {pmid20803204, year = {2010}, author = {Fernández-Juricic, E and O'Rourke, C and Pitlik, T}, title = {Visual coverage and scanning behavior in two corvid species: American crow and Western scrub jay.}, journal = {Journal of comparative physiology. A, Neuroethology, sensory, neural, and behavioral physiology}, volume = {196}, number = {12}, pages = {879-888}, pmid = {20803204}, issn = {1432-1351}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Birds/*physiology ; Crows/physiology ; Eye Movements/*physiology ; Head Movements/*physiology ; Space Perception/physiology ; Species Specificity ; Visual Fields/*physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Inter-specific differences in the configuration of avian visual fields and degree of eye/head movements have been associated with foraging and anti-predator behaviors. Our goal was to study visual fields, eye movements, and head movements in two species of corvids: American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and Western scrub jay (Aphelocoma californica). American crows had wider binocular overlap, longer vertical binocular fields, narrower blind areas, and higher amplitude of eye movement than Western scrub jays. American crows can converge their eyes and see their own bill tip, which may facilitate using different foraging techniques (e.g., pecking, probing) and manufacturing and handing rudimentary tools. Western scrub jays had a higher head movement rate than American crows while on the ground, and the opposite between-species difference was found when individuals were perching. Faster head movements may enhance the ability to scan the environment, which may be related to a higher perceived risk of predation of Western scrub jays when on the ground, and American crows when perching. The visual field configuration of these species appears influenced mostly by foraging techniques while their scaning behavior, by predation risk.}, }
@article {pmid20799644, year = {2010}, author = {Pravdukhina, OIu and Kodolova, OP}, title = {[Temporal dynamics of genetic diversity of Japanese scallop Mizuhopecten yessoensis (Jay, 1856)].}, journal = {Izvestiia Akademii nauk. Seriia biologicheskaia}, volume = {}, number = {4}, pages = {430-441}, pmid = {20799644}, issn = {1026-3470}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Asia, Eastern ; Gene Frequency ; Genetic Loci ; Genetic Variation ; Heterozygote ; Pectinidae/*genetics ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {The season and age-related dependence of the distribution of the frequency of alleles and of five polymorphous loci have been studied for eight cultivated samples of the Japanese scallop M. yessoensis (Jay) from Alexeev Bay (Popov Island, Sea of Japan) using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The consistency of the frequency of alleles and of heterozygotes was revealed for samples with an age greater than one year independently of the season and age. Samples of the younger (11 months) mollusks can have reliable deviations of the frequency of allele and of heterozygotes. However, as the sample reaches a certain age, these genetic parameters correspond to values general to the whole population. The episodic influence of ecological factors on the younger age groups of mollusks is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid20797969, year = {2010}, author = {Halami, MY and Dorrestein, GM and Couteel, P and Heckel, G and Müller, H and Johne, R}, title = {Whole-genome characterization of a novel polyomavirus detected in fatally diseased canary birds.}, journal = {The Journal of general virology}, volume = {91}, number = {Pt 12}, pages = {3016-3022}, doi = {10.1099/vir.0.023549-0}, pmid = {20797969}, issn = {1465-2099}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Canaries/*virology ; Cell Nucleus/virology ; Cluster Analysis ; DNA, Viral/chemistry/*genetics ; *Genome, Viral ; Intranuclear Inclusion Bodies ; Kidney/pathology/virology ; Liver/pathology/virology ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/methods ; Polyomavirus/*genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Polyomavirus Infections/*veterinary/virology ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Sequence Homology ; Spleen/pathology/virology ; Tumor Virus Infections/*veterinary/virology ; }, abstract = {Polyomaviruses of birds are aetiological agents of acute inflammatory diseases in non-immunocompromised hosts, which is in contrast to mammalian polyomaviruses. VP4, an additional structural protein encoded by the viral genomes of the known avian polyomaviruses, has been suggested to contribute to pathogenicity through loss of cells following induction of apoptosis. Four distinct bird polyomaviruses have been identified so far, which infect crows, finches, geese and parrots. Using broad-spectrum PCR, a novel polyomavirus, tentatively designated canary polyomavirus (CaPyV), was detected in diseased canary birds (Serinus canaria) that died at an age of about 40&amp;emsp14;days. Intranuclear inclusion bodies were found in the liver, spleen and kidneys. The entire viral genome was amplified from a tissue sample using rolling-circle amplification. Phylogenetic analysis of the genome sequence indicated a close relationship between CaPyV and other avian polyomaviruses. Remarkably, an ORF encoding VP4 could not be identified in the CaPyV genome. Therefore, the mechanism of pathogenicity of CaPyV may be different from that of the other avian polyomaviruses.}, }
@article {pmid20737894, year = {2010}, author = {Bagotskaia, MS and Smirnova, AA and Zorina, ZA}, title = {[Comparative study of the ability to solve a string-pulling task in Corvidae].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {60}, number = {3}, pages = {321-329}, pmid = {20737894}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; *Problem Solving ; Psychomotor Performance ; Species Specificity ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The ability of hooded crows (Corvus cornix L.) and common ravens (Corvus corax L.) to pull up a bait suspended from a horizontal perch by a string was tested. It was shown that some birds of both species successfully solved the string-pulling task. Considerable inter-individual and inter-species differences in task performance are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid20734247, year = {2010}, author = {Abbey, E}, title = {Themes and variation of N. S. Thompson--song.}, journal = {Integrative psychological &amp; behavioral science}, volume = {44}, number = {4}, pages = {348-350}, pmid = {20734247}, issn = {1936-3567}, mesh = {Animals ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Poetry as Topic/history ; Songbirds/physiology ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Nick Thompson studied many animals over the course of his career, including non-human primates, dogs, crows, human babies, and mockingbirds. Amidst such variation, Nick maintained a common focus. He sought to provide more accurate and truthful representations of the particular phenomenon of interest. His writings on mentalism, design, anthropomorphism and use of metaphor have provided fellow scientists with insight and helped advance his field of study.}, }
@article {pmid20725589, year = {2010}, author = {Liebermeister, H}, title = {How to avoid liability litigation in courts--suggestions from a German example.}, journal = {German medical science : GMS e-journal}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {20725589}, issn = {1612-3174}, mesh = {*Expert Testimony ; Germany ; Humans ; Insurance, Liability ; *Malpractice ; *Professional Staff Committees ; *Public Opinion ; }, abstract = {The medical art is difficult, its results can not always be predicted. After looking at TV, patients know more or think they know more about medicine. They tend to assume faulty diagnostics or treatment by their physician, if the good result promised by the news-media or by the doctor himself has not been obtained. The resulting litigation in court is time-consuming, causes a lot of paperwork and frequently leads to negative publicity for the doctor in the local news-media. Therefore, in 1975, the German Medical Associations in the different federal areas have founded expert committees to help solve this problem. These avoid negative publicity, heavy expenses and law-suits. Presidents of these committees are high-level judges - mostly retired - with experience in the field. They are masters of the procedure, choose the experts and formulate the final draft. This structure invalidates the understandable suspicion that physicians will protect each other or - as we say in Germany: "A crow will not hurt the eye of another one". The system is now well accepted by liability insurances, lawyers and patients.}, }
@article {pmid20716544, year = {2010}, author = {Xiang, YT and Shum, D and Chiu, HF and Tang, WK and Ungvari, GS}, title = {Independent association of prospective memory with retrospective memory and intelligence in schizophrenia: a controlled study.}, journal = {Archives of clinical neuropsychology : the official journal of the National Academy of Neuropsychologists}, volume = {25}, number = {7}, pages = {680-684}, doi = {10.1093/arclin/acq062}, pmid = {20716544}, issn = {1873-5843}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale ; Case-Control Studies ; Cognition Disorders/complications ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Memory Disorders/*complications ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychomotor Performance ; Schizophrenia/*complications ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; }, abstract = {Prospective memory (PM) refers to the ability to remember to do something in the future. This study examined the relationship between three PM subtypes, and intelligence and retrospective memory (RM) in schizophrenia patients and healthy controls. The study sample comprised 110 schizophrenia patients and 110 healthy controls matched according to age, sex, and level of education. The patients' clinical condition was evaluated with the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale. Time-, event-, and activity-based PM and RM (immediate and delayed Logical Memory subtests of the Wechsler Memory Scales-Revised), executive functioning (Design Fluency Test, Tower of London-4 disk, and Wisconsin Card Sorting Test), and intelligence (Raven's Progressive Matrices) tests were administered to all participants. Correlation analyses showed time- and event-based PM to be significantly associated with RM in both the patients and controls, but with intelligence only in the patients. After controlling for covariates, only time-based PM was associated with RM in the controls and only event-based PM with intelligence in the patients. In schizophrenia, PM deficit may arise from the impairments of the retrospective components of memory.}, }
@article {pmid20711255, year = {2010}, author = {Gienapp, P and Merilä, J}, title = {High fidelity--no evidence for extra-pair paternity in Siberian jays (Perisoreus infaustus).}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {5}, number = {8}, pages = {e12006}, pmid = {20711255}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Breeding ; Female ; Genotype ; Male ; Microsatellite Repeats/genetics ; *Passeriformes/genetics ; Paternity ; Pedigree ; *Sexual Behavior, Animal ; }, abstract = {Extra-pair paternity (EPP) in birds is related to a number of ecological and social factors. For example, it has been found to be positively related with breeding density, negatively with the amount of paternal care and especially high rates have been observed in group-living species. Siberian jays (Perisoreous infaustus) breed at low densities and have extended parental care, which leads to the expectation of low rates of EPP. On the other hand, Siberian jays live in groups which can include also unrelated individuals, and provide opportunities for extra-pair matings. To assess the potential occurrence of EPP in Siberian jays, we analysed a large data pool (n=1029 offspring) covering ca. 30 years of samples from a Finnish Siberian jay population. Paternities were assigned based on up to 21 polymorphic microsatellite markers with the additional information from field observations. We were unable to find any evidence for occurrence of EPP in this species. Our findings are in line with earlier studies and confirm the generally low rates of EPP in related Corvid species. These results suggest that ecological factors may be more important than social factors (group living) in determining costs and benefits of extra-pair paternity.}, }
@article {pmid20708664, year = {2010}, author = {Bond, AB and Wei, CA and Kamil, AC}, title = {Cognitive representation in transitive inference: a comparison of four corvid species.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {85}, number = {3}, pages = {283-292}, pmid = {20708664}, issn = {1872-8308}, support = {R01 MH069893/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01-MH069893/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Association Learning ; *Birds ; *Choice Behavior ; *Cognition ; *Conditioning, Operant ; Memory ; Photic Stimulation/methods ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {During operant transitive inference experiments, subjects are trained on adjacent stimulus pairs in an implicit linear hierarchy in which responses to higher ranked stimuli are rewarded. Two contrasting forms of cognitive representation are often used to explain resulting choice behavior. Associative representation is based on memory for the reward history of each stimulus. Relational representation depends on memory for the context in which stimuli have been presented. Natural history characteristics that require accurate configural memory, such as social complexity or reliance on cached food, should tend to promote greater use of relational representation. To test this hypothesis, four corvid species with contrasting natural histories were trained on the transitive inference task: pinyon jays, Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus; Clark's nutcrackers, Nucifraga columbiana; azure-winged magpies, Cyanopica cyanus; and western scrub jays, Aphelocoma californica. A simplified computer model of associative representation displayed a characteristic pattern of accuracy as a function of position in the hierarchy. Analysis of the deviation of each subject's performance from this predicted pattern yielded an index of reliance on relational representation. Regression of index scores against rankings of social complexity and caching reliance indicated that both traits were significantly and independently associated with greater use of relational representation.}, }
@article {pmid20707862, year = {2011}, author = {DeCarlo, CH and Clark, AB and McGowan, KJ and Ziegler, PE and Glaser, AL and Szonyi, B and Mohammed, HO}, title = {Factors associated with the risk of West Nile virus among crows in New York State.}, journal = {Zoonoses and public health}, volume = {58}, number = {4}, pages = {270-275}, pmid = {20707862}, issn = {1863-2378}, support = {R21 AI064305-03/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; 7 R21 A1064305-03//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/*virology ; Case-Control Studies ; Crows/*virology ; Disease Reservoirs/veterinary ; Female ; Logistic Models ; Male ; New York/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; Seasons ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology ; West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) is transmitted between avian hosts in enzootic cycles by a mosquito vector. The virus has significant disease effects on humans and equines when it bridges into an epizootic cycle. As the initial epidemic of WNV in 1999, perennial outbreaks in New York State suggest the local establishment of natural foci with perpetuation of the virus among susceptible hosts rather than reintroduction of the virus. The factors that play a role in the perpetuation of the virus are not fully understood. American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) are known to be highly susceptible to infection with the virus. We investigate the factors that put crows at risk of infection in Tompkins County, New York during the period of 2000-2008 in a case-control study. Cases were crow carcasses that were found dead and tested positive for WNV using real time reverse transcription or VecTest. Data on putative risk factors were collected and assessed for significance of association with the presence of WNV using logistic regression analysis to evaluate the significance of each factor while simultaneously controlling for the effect of others. The risk of a crow carcass testing WNV positive varied with age, season of the year and ecological area where the carcass was found. Crows that were more than 1-year-old were four times more likely to be WNV positive in comparison to birds that were less than 1 year of age. It was three times more likely to find WNV positive carcasses in residential areas in comparison to rural areas. The risk of testing WNV positive did not vary by sex of the crow carcasses.}, }
@article {pmid20701201, year = {2010}, author = {Raven-Vause, A}, title = {Perioperative care: it's all a matter of competency--isn't it?.}, journal = {Journal of perioperative practice}, volume = {20}, number = {7}, pages = {241-244}, doi = {10.1177/175045891002000702}, pmid = {20701201}, issn = {1750-4589}, mesh = {*Clinical Competence ; Humans ; Interviews as Topic ; *Job Application ; *Perioperative Nursing ; Personnel Selection/*standards ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {Many operating department practitioners believe that career success depends solely on technical ability. In this article Anne Raven-Vause challenges the nature of competent performance in busy perioperative settings and explores the skill set that needs to be developed in tomorrow's leaders.}, }
@article {pmid20697910, year = {2010}, author = {Gjerde, B and Dahlgren, SS}, title = {Corvid birds (Corvidae) act as definitive hosts for Sarcocystis ovalis in moose (Alces alces).}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {107}, number = {6}, pages = {1445-1453}, pmid = {20697910}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Birds ; DNA, Protozoan/chemistry/genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal/chemistry/genetics ; Feces/parasitology ; Genes, rRNA ; Microscopy ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Passeriformes/*parasitology ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; RNA, Protozoan/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; Rats ; Rodent Diseases/parasitology ; Ruminants/*parasitology ; Sarcocystis/cytology/genetics/*growth &amp; development/isolation &amp; purification ; Sarcocystosis/parasitology/*veterinary ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Epidemiological data and a unique phylogenetic position had suggested that Sarcocystis ovalis in moose and red deer might use a definitive host other than canids, felids, or humans. Corvid birds and rats were therefore evaluated as potential definitive hosts for this species in a small pilot study. Four laboratory rats were each inoculated with 10 or 25 sarcocysts of S. ovalis isolated from moose, but no Sarcocystis oocysts were detected in their intestinal mucosa upon euthanasia 2 to 3 weeks later. At a site where large flocks of corvid birds (hooded crows, ravens and European magpies) fed on remnants of moose carcasses during the hunting period in October, fresh bird droppings were collected on the ground and examined microscopically and by molecular methods. By microscopy, a small number of typical Sarcocystis sporocysts, measuring 12.8 × 8.4 μm, were found in the faecal samples. These sporocysts were identified as belonging to S. ovalis by a polymerase chain reaction assay using specific primer pairs targeting the ssu rRNA gene, followed by sequence analysis. The intestinal contents of a crow and two magpies shot near the dumping site were also examined. Sarcocystis oocysts (16.1 × 12.4 μm) and free sporocysts (12.5 × 7.9 μm) were found in the intestinal mucosa/contents of one magpie (Pica pica). These oocysts/sporocysts were also found to belong to S. ovalis by the same molecular assay. This is the first report of corvid birds acting as definitive hosts for a species of Sarcocystis.}, }
@article {pmid20688633, year = {2010}, author = {Ernest, HB and Woods, LW and Hoar, BR}, title = {Pathology associated with West Nile virus infections in the yellow-billed magpie (Pica nuttalli): a California endemic bird.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {46}, number = {2}, pages = {401-408}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-46.2.401}, pmid = {20688633}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*pathology/transmission ; California/epidemiology ; Disease Reservoirs/veterinary/virology ; Female ; Male ; Passeriformes/*virology ; Prevalence ; Sentinel Surveillance/veterinary ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/pathology/transmission/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Yellow-billed Magpies (Pica nuttalli, Corvidae) are found exclusively in central California and have experienced alarming West Nile virus (WNV)-associated mortality since 2004. The first reported case of WNV in the species was reported in July 2004. Subsequently, 81% (304/374) of dead magpies submitted that year to the California Department of Health Services Dead Bird Surveillance Program were WNV positive by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. We studied 43 magpie carcasses collected in 2004 and observed distinctive lesions in 24 birds that tested positive for WNV. Lesions included vasculitis and necrosis, and organs affected included brain, heart, liver, and gastrointestinal tract. From the severity of lesions observed, we suspect that a rapid onset of morbidity and mortality occurs with the Yellow-billed Magpie. Examination of bird survey data indicates that Yellow-billed Magpie abundance declined coincidentally with the onset of WNV in California. The home range and habitat of the species are nested within known areas of WNV transmission. Yellow-billed Magpies may be at risk of a decline and population bottleneck. Observations and experience with the Yellow-billed Magpie and WNV may provide insights for other endangered corvids that have not yet been exposed to WNV, including the Hawaiian Crow (Corvus hawaiiensis) and Island Scrub Jay (Aphelocoma insularis).}, }
@article {pmid20681982, year = {2011}, author = {McCormack, JE and Heled, J and Delaney, KS and Peterson, AT and Knowles, LL}, title = {Calibrating divergence times on species trees versus gene trees: implications for speciation history of Aphelocoma jays.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {65}, number = {1}, pages = {184-202}, doi = {10.1111/j.1558-5646.2010.01097.x}, pmid = {20681982}, issn = {1558-5646}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Cell Nucleus/genetics ; Central America ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; Fossils ; *Gene Flow ; *Genetic Speciation ; Genetic Variation ; Geological Phenomena ; Mexico ; Phylogeny ; Sequence Alignment ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Songbirds/classification/*genetics ; United States ; }, abstract = {Estimates of the timing of divergence are central to testing the underlying causes of speciation. Relaxed molecular clocks and fossil calibration have improved these estimates; however, these advances are implemented in the context of gene trees, which can overestimate divergence times. Here we couple recent innovations for dating speciation events with the analytical power of species trees, where multilocus data are considered in a coalescent context. Divergence times are estimated in the bird genus Aphelocoma to test whether speciation in these jays coincided with mountain uplift or glacial cycles. Gene trees and species trees show general agreement that diversification began in the Miocene amid mountain uplift. However, dates from the multilocus species tree are more recent, occurring predominately in the Pleistocene, consistent with theory that divergence times can be significantly overestimated with gene-tree based approaches that do not correct for genetic divergence that predates speciation. In addition to coalescent stochasticity, Haldane's rule could account for some differences in timing estimates between mitochondrial DNA and nuclear genes. By incorporating a fossil calibration applied to the species tree, in addition to the process of gene lineage coalescence, the present approach provides a more biologically realistic framework for dating speciation events, and hence for testing the links between diversification and specific biogeographic and geologic events.}, }
@article {pmid20675059, year = {2010}, author = {Lalonde, R}, title = {Can time production predict cognitive decline?.}, journal = {Medical hypotheses}, volume = {75}, number = {6}, pages = {525-527}, doi = {10.1016/j.mehy.2010.07.013}, pmid = {20675059}, issn = {1532-2777}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Aged ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Reaction Time/*physiology ; Time Perception/*physiology ; Verbal Learning/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Time production may predict age-related losses in verbal and visuospatial functions in a fashion similar to reaction time measurements. In a preliminary investigation, young subjects outperformed older ones in the Rey auditory-verbal learning test and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices, but not in time productions of 3-10s. Nevertheless, time production of a brief interval was correlated with verbal learning scores. These results may be due to age-related changes in prefrontal cortex.}, }
@article {pmid20646314, year = {2010}, author = {Hjerkinn, B and Lindbaek, M and Skogmo, I and Rosvold, EO}, title = {Neuropsychological screening of children of substance-abusing women attending a Special Child Welfare Clinic in Norway.}, journal = {Substance abuse treatment, prevention, and policy}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {17}, pmid = {20646314}, issn = {1747-597X}, mesh = {Adult ; Child ; *Child Welfare ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; *Mass Screening ; Mental Disorders/*diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Norway/epidemiology ; *Psychology, Child ; *Substance-Related Disorders/complications/epidemiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Exposure to alcohol and illicit substances during pregnancy can have an impact on the child for the rest of his/her life. A Special Child Welfare Clinic (SCWC) in Norway provides care for pregnant women with substance abuse problems. Treatment and support are provided without replacement therapy.<br><br>METHODS: We performed a neuropsychological screening of 40 children aged four to 11 years whose mothers had attended the SCWC during pregnancy, and of a comparison group of 80 children of women without substance abuse problems. The children were presented with tests chosen from Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, third version (WISC-III), Nepsy, Halstead-Reitan and Raven's Progressive Matrices, Coloured Version. The tests were grouped into five main domains; (1) learning and memory, (2) visual scanning, planning and attention, (3) executive function, (4) visuo-motor speed and dexterity and (5) general intellectual ability<br><br>RESULTS: No children in the study had test results in the clinical range in any domain. Bivariate analyses revealed that children of short-term substance-abusing mothers (who stopped substance abuse within the first trimester) had significantly lower test scores than the comparison group in three out of five domains (domain 2,3,4). Children of long-term substance abusers (who maintained moderate substance abuse throughout pregnancy) had significantly lower test results than the comparison group in one domain of the test results (domain 1). All but one child in the long-term group were or had been in foster homes. Most children in the short-term group stayed with their mothers. Multivariate regression analyses revealed that foster care minimum 50% of life time was associated with better scores on domains (1) learning and memory, (2) visual scanning, planning and attention, and (3) executive functions, while no significant associations with test scores was found for substance abuse and birth before 38 weeks of gestation.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Children raised by former substance abusing mothers scored worse on the neuropsychological screening than children who had substance abusing mothers and mostly were raised in foster homes. This indicates that it is important to focus on the environment in cases where help and support are provided to presently or formerly addicted women raising children.}, }
@article {pmid20634008, year = {2010}, author = {Rahu, K and Rahu, M and Pullmann, H and Allik, J}, title = {Effect of birth weight, maternal education and prenatal smoking on offspring intelligence at school age.}, journal = {Early human development}, volume = {86}, number = {8}, pages = {493-497}, doi = {10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2010.06.010}, pmid = {20634008}, issn = {1872-6232}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Birth Weight ; Child ; *Educational Status ; Estonia/epidemiology ; Female ; Gestational Age ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Maternal Exposure/*adverse effects ; Mother-Child Relations ; Mothers/psychology ; Pregnancy ; Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/etiology/psychology ; Smoke/*adverse effects ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {To examine the combined effect of birth weight, mothers' education and prenatal smoking on psychometrically measured intelligence at school age 1,822 children born in 1992-1999 and attending the first six grades from 45 schools representing all of the fifteen Estonian counties with information on birth weight, gestational age and mother's age, marital status, education, parity and smoking in pregnancy, and intelligence tests were studied. The scores of Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices were related to the birth weight: in the normal range of birth weight (>or=2500 g) every 500 g increase in birth weight was accompanied by around 0.7-point increase in IQ scores. A strong association between birth weight and IQ remained even if gestational age and mother's age, marital status, education, place of residence, parity and smoking during pregnancy have been taken into account. Maternal prenatal smoking was accompanied by a 3.3-point deficit in children's intellectual abilities. Marriage and mother's education had an independent positive correlation with offspring intelligence. We concluded that the statistical effect of birth weight, maternal education and smoking in pregnancy on offspring's IQ scores was remarkable and remained even if other factors have been taken into account.}, }
@article {pmid20628160, year = {2010}, author = {Holzhaider, JC and Hunt, GR and Gray, RD}, title = {Social learning in New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {38}, number = {3}, pages = {206-219}, pmid = {20628160}, issn = {1543-4494}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; *Animals, Wild ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Crows/growth &amp; development ; Female ; Hierarchy, Social ; Imitative Behavior ; *Learning ; Male ; Pandanaceae ; Seasons ; *Social Environment ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian (NC) crows are the most sophisticated tool manufacturers other than humans. The diversification and geographical distribution of their three Pandanus tool designs that differ in complexity, as well as the lack of ecological correlates, suggest that cumulative technological change has taken place. To investigate the possibility that high-fidelity social transmission mediated this putative ratchet-like process, we studied the ontogeny of Pandanus tool manufacture and social organization in free-living NC crows. We found that juvenile crows took more than 1 year to reach adult proficiency in their Pandanus tool skills. Although trial-and-error learning is clearly important, juveniles have ample opportunity to learn about Pandanus tool manufacture by both observing their parents and interacting with artifactual material. The crows' social system seems likely to promote the faithful social transmission of local tool designs by both favoring the vertical transmission of tool information and minimizing horizontal transmission. We suggest that NC crows develop their Pandanus tool skills in a highly scaffolded learning environment that facilitates the cumulative technological evolution of tool designs.}, }
@article {pmid20623420, year = {2010}, author = {Zhu, B and Chen, C and Loftus, EF and Lin, C and He, Q and Chen, C and Li, H and Xue, G and Lu, Z and Dong, Q}, title = {Individual differences in false memory from misinformation: cognitive factors.}, journal = {Memory (Hove, England)}, volume = {18}, number = {5}, pages = {543-555}, doi = {10.1080/09658211.2010.487051}, pmid = {20623420}, issn = {1464-0686}, mesh = {Adult ; *Cognition ; *Communication ; Facial Expression ; Female ; Humans ; *Individuality ; Intelligence ; Judgment ; Male ; *Memory ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Recognition, Psychology ; *Repression, Psychology ; Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {This research investigated the cognitive correlates of false memories that are induced by the misinformation paradigm. A large sample of Chinese college students (N=436) participated in a misinformation procedure and also took a battery of cognitive tests. Results revealed sizable and systematic individual differences in false memory arising from exposure to misinformation. False memories were significantly and negatively correlated with measures of intelligence (measured with Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices and Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale), perception (Motor-Free Visual Perception Test, Change Blindness, and Tone Discrimination), memory (Wechsler Memory Scales and 2-back Working Memory tasks), and face judgement (Face Recognition and Facial Expression Recognition). These findings suggest that people with relatively low intelligence and poor perceptual abilities might be more susceptible to the misinformation effect.}, }
@article {pmid20618552, year = {2010}, author = {Samson, N and Fink, B and Matts, PJ and Dawes, NC and Weitz, S}, title = {Visible changes of female facial skin surface topography in relation to age and attractiveness perception.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {9}, number = {2}, pages = {79-88}, doi = {10.1111/j.1473-2165.2010.00489.x}, pmid = {20618552}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aging/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Perception ; Skin Aging/*physiology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Evolutionary psychology suggests that a woman's age and physical appearance are important mate choice criteria. Given that changes in female facial skin surface topography are important, prominent visible signs of aging, male perceptual sensitivity for variation in this trait may also affect preference and attractiveness judgment.<br><br>METHODS: Two experiments were conducted to investigate perception (Experiment 1) and noticeability (Experiment 2) of skin surface topography manipulations in facial images of six British women, aged 45-65 years. In Experiment 1 skin surface topography cues were completely removed on the cheeks, the "crow's feet" area adjacent to the eye, under the eyes, above the upper lip, and on the forehead while, in Experiment 2, it was removed gradually (20% increments) on the forehead and around the eyes. In both experiments, stimuli were presented to American and German participants (total N = 300, aged 15-55 years) in omnibus pair-wise combinations (within-face). With each pair, respondents were asked to select that face which they considered as younger looking (Experiments 1 and 2) and more attractive (Experiment 1).<br><br>RESULTS: Faces with skin surface topography cues removed were judged significantly younger and more attractive than their original (unmodified) counterparts, with modifications on the forehead and around the eyes showing the highest differences. In these areas, participants were able to detect at least a 20% visual change in skin surface topography.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The results support the assertion that even small changes in skin surface topography affect the perceptions of a woman's facial age and attractiveness and may, thus, also influence men's mate preferences.}, }
@article {pmid20610430, year = {2010}, author = {Fordyce, JA}, title = {Host shifts and evolutionary radiations of butterflies.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {277}, number = {1701}, pages = {3735-3743}, pmid = {20610430}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Bayes Theorem ; Biodiversity ; Butterflies/*genetics ; Host-Parasite Interactions/genetics ; *Models, Genetic ; Phylogeny ; Plants/*parasitology ; }, abstract = {Ehrlich and Raven proposed a model of coevolution where major host plant shifts of butterflies facilitate a burst of diversification driven by their arrival to a new adaptive zone. One prediction of this model is that reconstructions of historical diversification of butterflies should indicate an increase in diversification rate following major host shifts. Using reconstructed histories of 15 butterfly groups, I tested this prediction and found general agreement with Ehrlich and Raven's model. Butterfly lineages with an inferred major historical host shift showed evidence of diversification rate variation, with a significant acceleration following the host shift. Lineages without an inferred major host shift generally agreed with a constant-rate model of diversification. These results are consistent with the view that host plant associations have played a profound role in the evolutionary history of butterflies, and show that major shifts to chemically distinct plant groups leave a historical footprint that remains detectable today.}, }
@article {pmid20600352, year = {2010}, author = {Salwiczek, LH and Watanabe, A and Clayton, NS}, title = {Ten years of research into avian models of episodic-like memory and its implications for developmental and comparative cognition.}, journal = {Behavioural brain research}, volume = {215}, number = {2}, pages = {221-234}, doi = {10.1016/j.bbr.2010.06.011}, pmid = {20600352}, issn = {1872-7549}, support = {BB/D000335/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Child Development ; Cognition/*physiology ; Hippocampus/growth &amp; development/physiology ; Humans ; Infant ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; *Models, Animal ; Models, Psychological ; }, abstract = {Episodic memory refers to the ability to remember specific personal events from the past. Ever since Tulving first made the distinction between episodic memory and other forms of declarative memory in 1972, most cognitive psychologists and neuroscientists have assumed that episodic recall is unique to humans. The seminal paper on episodic-like memory in Western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) by Clayton and Dickinson [4] has inspired a number of studies and in a wide range of species over the past 10 years. Here we shall first review the avian studies of what-where-when memory, namely in the Western scrub-jays, magpies, black-capped chickadees and pigeons; we shall then present an alternative approach to studying episodic-like memory also tested in pigeons. In the second and third section we want to draw attention to topics where we believe the bird model could prove highly valuable, namely studying development of episodic-memory in pre-verbal children, and the evolution and ontogeny of brain areas subserving episodic(-like) memory.}, }
@article {pmid20595054, year = {2010}, author = {Arai, N and Iigo, M}, title = {Duplicated growth hormone genes in a passerine bird, the jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Biochemical and biophysical research communications}, volume = {397}, number = {3}, pages = {553-558}, doi = {10.1016/j.bbrc.2010.05.156}, pmid = {20595054}, issn = {1090-2104}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Cloning, Molecular ; Crows/*genetics ; DNA, Complementary/genetics ; Finches/genetics ; *Gene Duplication ; Gene Expression ; *Genes, Duplicate ; Growth Hormone/classification/*genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {Molecular cloning, molecular phylogeny, gene structure and expression analyses of growth hormone (GH) were performed in a passerine bird, the jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos). Unexpectedly, duplicated GH cDNA and genes were identified and designated as GH1A and GH1B. In silico analyses identified the zebra finch orthologs. Both GH genes encode 217 amino acid residues and consist of five exons and four introns, spanning 5.2 kbp in GH1A and 4.2 kbp in GH1B. Predicted GH proteins of the jungle crow and zebra finch contain four conserved cysteine residues, suggesting duplicated GH genes are functional. Molecular phylogenetic analysis revealed that duplication of GH genes occur after divergence of the passerine lineage from the other avian orders as has been suggested from partial genomic DNA sequences of passerine GH genes. RT-PCR analyses confirmed expression of GH1A and GH1B in the pituitary gland. In addition, GH1A gene is expressed in all the tissues examined. However, expression of GH1B is confined to several brain areas and blood cells. These results indicate that the regulatory mechanisms of duplicated GH genes are different and that duplicated GH genes exert both endocrine and autocrine/paracrine functions.}, }
@article {pmid20592692, year = {2010}, author = {Anker, CJ and Wang, B and Tobler, M and Chapek, J and Shrieve, DC and Hitchcock, YJ and Salter, BJ}, title = {Evaluation of fluence-smoothing feature for three IMRT planning systems.}, journal = {Journal of applied clinical medical physics}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, pages = {3035}, pmid = {20592692}, issn = {1526-9914}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Glioblastoma/*radiotherapy ; Humans ; Male ; Paranasal Sinus Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Prostatic Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; *Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated ; Tongue Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; }, abstract = {Commercially available intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) inverse treatment planning systems (ITPS) typically include a smoothing function which allows the user to vary the complexity of delivered beam fluence patterns. This study evaluated the behavior of three ITPSs when varying smoothing parameters. We evaluated four cases treated with IMRT in our clinic: sinonasal carcinoma (SNC), glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), base of tongue carcinoma (BOT), and prostate carcinoma (PST). Varian Eclipse v6.5, BrainLAB BrainScan v5.31, and Nomos Corvus v6.2 ITPSs were studied for the SNC, GBM, and PST sites. Only Eclipse and Corvus were studied for BOT due to field size constraints of the BrainLAB MM3 collimator. For each ITPS, plans were first optimized using vendor- recommended default "smoothing" values. Treatment plans were then reoptimized, exploring various smoothing values. Key metrics recorded included a delivery complexity (DC) metric and the Ian Paddick Conformality Index (IPCI). Results varied widely by vendor with regard to the impact of smoothing on complexity and conformality. Plans run on the Corvus ITPS showed the logically anticipated increase in DC as smoothing was decreased, along with associated improved organ-at-risk (OAR) sparing. Both Eclipse and BrainScan experienced an expected trend for increased DC as smoothing was decreased. However, this increase did not typically result in appreciably improved OAR sparing. For Eclipse and Corvus, and to a much lesser extent BrainScan, increases in smoothing decreased DC but eventually caused unacceptable losses in plan quality. Depending on the ITPS, potential benefits from optimizing fluence smoothing levels can be significant, allowing for increases in either efficiency or conformality. Because of variability in smoothing function behavior by ITPS, it is important that users familiarize themselves with the effects of varying smoothing parameters for their respective ITPS. Based on experience gained here, we provide recommended workflows for each ITPS to best exploit the fluence-smoothing features of the system.}, }
@article {pmid20590722, year = {2010}, author = {Morsanyi, K and Holyoak, KJ}, title = {Analogical reasoning ability in autistic and typically developing children.}, journal = {Developmental science}, volume = {13}, number = {4}, pages = {578-587}, doi = {10.1111/j.1467-7687.2009.00915.x}, pmid = {20590722}, issn = {1467-7687}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Age Factors ; Autistic Disorder/*physiopathology/psychology ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Pattern Recognition, Visual/physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Verbal Learning/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Recent studies (e.g. Dawson et al., 2007) have reported that autistic people perform in the normal range on the Raven Progressive Matrices test, a formal reasoning test that requires integration of relations as well as the ability to infer rules and form high-level abstractions. Here we compared autistic and typically developing children, matched on age, IQ, and verbal and non-verbal working memory, using both the Raven test and pictorial tests of analogical reasoning. Whereas the Raven test requires only formal analogical reasoning, the other analogy tests require use of real-world knowledge, as well as inhibition of salient distractors. We found that autistic children performed as well as controls on all these tests of reasoning with relations. Our findings indicate that the basic ability to reason systematically with relations, for both abstract and thematic materials, is intact in autism.}, }
@article {pmid20589987, year = {2010}, author = {Sefcek, JA and Figueredo, AJ}, title = {A life-history model of human fitness indicators.}, journal = {Biodemography and social biology}, volume = {56}, number = {1}, pages = {42-66}, doi = {10.1080/19485561003709214}, pmid = {20589987}, issn = {1948-5565}, mesh = {Adult ; Arizona ; Biological Evolution ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Female ; *Genetic Fitness ; Humans ; Individuality ; Intelligence/*genetics ; Male ; Models, Genetic ; Multivariate Analysis ; Regression Analysis ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {Recent adaptationist accounts of human mental and physical health have reinvigorated the debate over the evolution of human intelligence. In the tradition of strong inference the current study was developed to determine whether either Miller's (1998, 2000a) Fitness Indicator Theory or Rushton's (1985, 2000) Differential-K Theory better accounts for general intelligence ("g") in an undergraduate university population (N=192). Owing to the lengthy administration time of the test materials, a newly developed 18-item short form of the Ravens Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM-18; Sefcek, Miller, and Figueredo 2007) was used. A significant, positive relationship between K and F (r = .31, p < .001) emerged. Contrary to predictions, no significant relationships were found between "g" and either K or F (r = -.09, p > or = .05 and r = .11, p > or = .05, respectively). Though generally contrary to both hypotheses, these results may be explained in relation to antagonistic pleiotropy and a potential failure to derive correct predictions for within-species comparisons directly from the results of between-species comparisons.}, }
@article {pmid20557203, year = {2010}, author = {Amin, OM and Heckmann, RA and Halajian, A and Eslami, A}, title = {Redescription of Sphaerirostris picae (Acanthocephala: Centrorhynchidae) from magpie, Pica pica, in northern Iran, with special reference to unusual receptacle structures and notes on histopathology.}, journal = {The Journal of parasitology}, volume = {96}, number = {3}, pages = {561-568}, doi = {10.1645/GE-2249.1}, pmid = {20557203}, issn = {1937-2345}, mesh = {Acanthocephala/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification/ultrastructure ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology ; Female ; Helminthiasis, Animal/epidemiology/*parasitology ; Iran/epidemiology ; Male ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning/veterinary ; Passeriformes/*parasitology ; Prevalence ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {Adults of Sphaerirostris picae (Rudolphi, 1819) Golvan, 1956 are described from European magpie, Pica pica Linnaeus (Corvidae), collected in 2008 from wooded areas near the northern Iranian town of Tonekabon by the southern shores of the Caspian Sea. Other specimens also were collected from Corvus cornix Linnaeus, Corvus corone Linnaeus, and Corvus frugilegus Linnaeus (Corvidae) in the same location, as well as from some of these hosts in other locations. Our specimens had 31-38 proboscis hook rows on the ovoid anterior proboscis and 27-36 spine rows on the cylindrical- to cone-shaped posterior proboscis, each with 8-10 hooks and 2-5 spines per row, respectively. They are distinguished from those of all other species of the genus by having a unique prominent expansion of the dorsal inner receptacle wall, called the receptacle process (RP), anteriorly into the anterior proboscis and by the presence of longitudinal alveolar lobes throughout the receptacle and proboscis. The RP is described using histological sections. Sphaerirostris picae is further distinguished from 2 closely related species, namely, Sphaerirostris lancea (Westrumb, 1821) Golvan, 1956 and Sphaerirostris pinguis (Van Cleave, 1918) Golvan, 1956, by characteristics of proboscis armature, position of female gonopore, and other reproductive system and receptacle features. Histological sections revealed damage to host intestinal tissue.}, }
@article {pmid20553567, year = {2010}, author = {Bingham, J and Lunt, RA and Green, DJ and Davies, KR and Stevens, V and Wong, FY}, title = {Experimental studies of the role of the little raven (Corvus mellori) in surveillance for West Nile virus in Australia.}, journal = {Australian veterinary journal}, volume = {88}, number = {6}, pages = {204-210}, doi = {10.1111/j.1751-0813.2010.00582.x}, pmid = {20553567}, issn = {1751-0813}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Antigens, Viral/analysis ; Australasia ; Bird Diseases/immunology/*virology ; *Crows ; Mice ; RNA, Viral/chemistry/genetics ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Sentinel Surveillance/veterinary ; Virulence ; West Nile Fever/immunology/transmission/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/*immunology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To study the potential role of an Australian corvid, the little raven (Corvus mellori), in the surveillance for exotic West Nile virus (WNV) in Australia.<br><br>METHOD: In a series of trials, little ravens were infected with WNV (strain 4132 New York 1999) and Kunjin virus (strain K42886) by the intramuscular route. They were observed for 20 days during which blood and swab samples were taken for virus isolation. Tissue samples were taken from ravens humanely killed during the acute infection period, and at the termination of the trials, for virus isolation, histopathology and immunohistochemistry.<br><br>RESULTS: Ravens infected with WNV became mildly ill, but all recovered and seroconverted. Blood virus titres peaked around 3 to 4 days after inoculation at levels between 10(3.0) to 10(7.5) plaque forming units/mL. Virus or viral antigen was detected in spleen, liver, lung, kidney, intestine, testis and ovary by virus isolation and/or immunohistochemistry. WNV was detected in oral and cloacal swabs from 2 to 7 days post inoculation. The molecular and pathogenic characteristics of the inocula were consistent with them being of high virulence, as expected for this isolate. Ravens infected with Kunjin virus developed viraemia and seroconverted, although they did not develop disease.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Little ravens do not develop severe disease in response to virulent WNV infection and for this reason may not be important sentinel hosts in the event of an outbreak of WNV, as in North America. However, as they have relatively high viraemias, they may be able to support virus cycles.}, }
@article {pmid20550632, year = {2010}, author = {Elmer, KR and Meyer, A}, title = {Sympatric speciation without borders?.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {19}, number = {10}, pages = {1991-1993}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2010.04612.x}, pmid = {20550632}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Fishes/classification/genetics ; Gene Flow ; *Genetic Speciation ; *Genetics, Population ; Geography ; Phylogeny ; Reproduction/genetics ; }, abstract = {The biogeography of speciation remains a controversial issue and the process of allopatric speciation reigns. Sympatric speciation differs from allopatric speciation in terms of geographic setting and the role of selection in bringing about reproductive isolating mechanisms, making it a particularly fascinating and controversial subject for evolutionary biologists. Mayr (1947) explained the difference eloquently: for allopatric speciation, populations spatially diverge and then become reproductively isolated; for sympatric speciation, populations first become reproductively isolated and then diverge. Because of this, sympatric speciation is difficult to show empirically and most evolutionary biologists agree that strict ecological, evolutionary, and geographic criteria must be met (Coyne &amp; Orr 2004). In this issue, Crow et al. (2010) challenge us to expand the definition of sympatric speciation by studying species of marine fishes that they propose have arisen by sympatric speciation in a setting that does not appear to conform to the usual geographical criteria.}, }
@article {pmid20534612, year = {2010}, author = {López-Sepulcre, A and Kokko, H and Norris, K}, title = {Evolutionary conservation advice for despotic populations: habitat heterogeneity favours conflict and reduces productivity in Seychelles magpie robins.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {277}, number = {1699}, pages = {3477-3482}, pmid = {20534612}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; *Biological Evolution ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; *Ecosystem ; Female ; Male ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Reproduction ; Seychelles ; Social Dominance ; Territoriality ; }, abstract = {Individual preferences for good habitat are often thought to have a beneficial stabilizing effect for populations. However, if individuals preferentially compete for better-quality territories, these may become hotspots of conflict. We show that, in an endangered species, this process decreases the productivity of favoured territories to the extent that differences in productivity between territories disappear. Unlike predictions from current demographic theory on site-dependent population regulation (ideal despotic distribution), we show that population productivity is reduced if resources are distributed unevenly in space. Competition for high-quality habitat can thus have detrimental consequences for populations even though it benefits individuals. Manipulating conflict (e.g. by reducing variation in habitat quality) can therefore prove an effective conservation measure in species with strong social or territorial conflict.}, }
@article {pmid20531097, year = {2010}, author = {Cummins, C and Doyle, J and Kindness, L and Lefthand, MJ and Bear Dont Walk, UJ and Bends, AL and Broadaway, SC and Camper, AK and Fitch, R and Ford, TE and Hamner, S and Morrison, AR and Richards, CL and Young, SL and Eggers, MJ}, title = {Community-based participatory research in Indian country: improving health through water quality research and awareness.}, journal = {Family &amp; community health}, volume = {33}, number = {3}, pages = {166-174}, pmid = {20531097}, issn = {1550-5057}, support = {P20MD002317/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; P20 RR-16455-04/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; P20 RR016455/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; P20 GM103474/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; P20 MD002317/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; P20 MD002317-05/MD/NIMHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; *Community-Based Participatory Research ; *Environmental Health ; Humans ; Indians, North American/*psychology ; Montana ; Research Personnel/psychology ; Water Supply/*standards ; }, abstract = {Water has always been held in high respect by the Apsaálooke (Crow) people of Montana. Tribal members questioned the health of the rivers and well water because of visible water quality deterioration and potential connections to illnesses in the community. Community members initiated collaboration among local organizations, the tribe, and academic partners, resulting in genuine community-based participatory research. The article shares what we have learned as tribal members and researchers about working together to examine surface and groundwater contaminants, assess routes of exposure, and use our data to bring about improved health of our people and our waters.}, }
@article {pmid20529765, year = {2010}, author = {Vazquez-Prokopec, GM and Vanden Eng, JL and Kelly, R and Mead, DG and Kolhe, P and Howgate, J and Kitron, U and Burkot, TR}, title = {The risk of West Nile Virus infection is associated with combined sewer overflow streams in urban Atlanta, Georgia, USA.}, journal = {Environmental health perspectives}, volume = {118}, number = {10}, pages = {1382-1388}, pmid = {20529765}, issn = {1552-9924}, mesh = {Georgia/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Sewage ; Urban Population ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: At present, the factors favoring transmission and amplification of West Nile Virus (WNV) within urban environments are poorly understood. In urban Atlanta, Georgia, the highly polluted waters of streams affected by combined sewer overflow (CSO) represent significant habitats for the WNV mosquito vector Culex quinquefasciatus. However, their contribution to the risk of WNV infection in humans and birds remains unclear.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: Our goals were to describe and quantify the spatial distribution of WNV infection in mosquitoes, humans, and corvids, such as blue jays and American crows that are particularly susceptible to WNV infection, and to assess the relationship between WNV infection and proximity to CSO-affected streams in the city of Atlanta, Georgia.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: We applied spatial statistics to human, corvid, and mosquito WNV surveillance data from 2001 through 2007. Multimodel analysis was used to estimate associations of WNV infection in Cx. quinquefasciatus, humans, and dead corvids with selected risk factors including distance to CSO streams and catch basins, land cover, median household income, and housing characteristics.<br><br>RESULTS: We found that WNV infection in mosquitoes, corvids, and humans was spatially clustered and statistically associated with CSO-affected streams. WNV infection in Cx. quinquefasciatus was significantly higher in CSO compared with non-CSO streams, and WNV infection rates among humans and corvids were significantly associated with proximity to CSO-affected streams, the extent of tree cover, and median household income.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our study strongly suggests that CSO-affected streams are significant sources of Cx. quinquefasciatus mosquitoes that may facilitate WNV transmission to humans within urban environments. Our findings may have direct implications for the surveillance and control of WNV in other urban centers that continue to use CSO systems as a waste management practice.}, }
@article {pmid20528159, year = {2010}, author = {Rahman, ML and Yoshida, K and Maeda, I and Tanaka, H and Sugita, S}, title = {Distribution of retinal cone photoreceptor oil droplets, and identification of associated carotenoids in crow (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Zoological science}, volume = {27}, number = {6}, pages = {514-521}, doi = {10.2108/zsj.27.514}, pmid = {20528159}, issn = {0289-0003}, mesh = {Animals ; Carotenoids/*metabolism ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Oils/*metabolism ; Retina/cytology/physiology ; Retinal Cone Photoreceptor Cells/*cytology/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The topography of cone oil droplets and their carotenoids were investigated in the retina of jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos). Fresh retina was sampled for the study of retinal cone oil droplets, and extracted retinal carotenoids were saponified using methods adapted from a recent study, then identified with reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). To assess the effects of saponification conditions on carotenoid recovery from crow retina, we varied base concentration and total time of saponification across a wide range of conditions, and again used HPLC to compare carotenoid concentrations. Based on colors, at least four types of oil droplets were recognized, i.e., red, orange, green, and translucent, across the retina. With an average of 91,202 /mm(2), density gradually declines in an eccentric manner from optic disc. In retina, the density and size of droplets are inversely related. In the peripheral zone, oil droplets were significantly larger than those of the central area. The proportion of orange oil droplets (33%) was higher in the central area, whereas green was predominant in other areas. Three types of carotenoid (astaxanthin, galloxanthin and lutein), together with one unknown carotenoid, were recovered from the crow retina; astaxanthin was the dominant carotenoid among them. The recovery of carotenoids was affected by saponification conditions. Astaxanthin was well recovered in weak alkali (0.06 M KOH), in contrast, xanthophyllic carotenoids were best recovered in strong alkali (0.6 M KOH) after 12 h of saponification at freeze temperature.}, }
@article {pmid20528140, year = {2010}, author = {Laub, D}, title = {Commentary on "Fragmented testament: letters written by World War II resisters before their execution" by Anne Griffin and Jay Lefer.}, journal = {The journal of the American Academy of Psychoanalysis and Dynamic Psychiatry}, volume = {38}, number = {2}, pages = {285-290}, doi = {10.1521/jaap.2010.38.2.285}, pmid = {20528140}, issn = {1943-2852}, mesh = {*Altruism ; Belgium ; *Capital Punishment ; *Correspondence as Topic ; *Ego ; Female ; *Freudian Theory ; Humans ; Male ; Military Personnel/*psychology ; Morals ; *Politics ; Prisoners/*psychology ; *Social Conformity ; World War II ; }, }
@article {pmid20521213, year = {2010}, author = {Borst, G and Kosslyn, SM}, title = {Individual differences in spatial mental imagery.}, journal = {Quarterly journal of experimental psychology (2006)}, volume = {63}, number = {10}, pages = {2031-2050}, doi = {10.1080/17470211003802459}, pmid = {20521213}, issn = {1747-0226}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; *Attention ; Discrimination, Psychological ; Female ; Humans ; Imagination/*physiology ; *Individuality ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Pattern Recognition, Visual/physiology ; Photic Stimulation/methods ; Reaction Time/physiology ; Space Perception/*physiology ; Time Factors ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {In this article, we report a new image-scanning paradigm that allowed us to measure objectively individual differences in spatial mental imagery--specifically, imagery for location. Participants were asked to determine whether an arrow was pointing at a dot using a visual mental image of an array of dots. The degree of precision required to discriminate "yes" from "no" trials was varied. In Experiment 1, the time to scan increasing distances, as well as the number of errors, increased when greater precision was required to make a judgement. The results in Experiment 2 replicated those results while controlling for possible biases. When greater precision is required, the accuracy of the spatial image becomes increasingly important--and hence the effect of precision in the task reflects the accuracy of the image. In Experiment 3, this measure was shown to be related to scores on the Paper Folding test, on the Paper Form Board test, and on the visuospatial items on Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices--but not to scores on questionnaires measuring object-based mental imagery. Thus, we provide evidence that classical standardized spatial tests rely on spatial mental imagery but not object mental imagery.}, }
@article {pmid20519217, year = {2010}, author = {Baglione, V and Canestrari, D and Chiarati, E and Vera, R and Marcos, JM}, title = {Lazy group members are substitute helpers in carrion crows.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {277}, number = {1698}, pages = {3275-3282}, pmid = {20519217}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Cooperative Behavior ; Crows/*growth &amp; development ; Female ; *Helping Behavior ; Linear Models ; Male ; Spain ; Videotape Recording ; }, abstract = {In many cooperatively breeding societies, helping effort varies greatly among group members, raising the question of why dominant individuals tolerate lazy subordinates. In groups of carrion crows Corvus corone corone, helpers at the nest increase breeders' reproductive success, but chick provisioning is unevenly distributed among non-breeders, with a gradient that ranges from individuals that work as much as the breeders to others that completely refrain from visiting the nest. Here we show that lazy non-breeders represent an insurance workforce that fully compensates for a reduction in the provisioning effort of another group member, avoiding a decrease in reproductive success. When we temporarily impaired a carer, decreasing its nest attendance, the laziest non-breeders increased their provisioning rate and individuals that initially refrained from visiting the nest started helping. Breeders, in contrast, did not increase chick provisioning. This shows that lazy non-breeders can buffer a sudden unfavourable circumstance and suggests that group stability relies on the potential contribution of group members in addition to their current effort.}, }
@article {pmid20517490, year = {2010}, author = {Calistri, P and Giovannini, A and Hubalek, Z and Ionescu, A and Monaco, F and Savini, G and Lelli, R}, title = {Epidemiology of west nile in europe and in the mediterranean basin.}, journal = {The open virology journal}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {29-37}, pmid = {20517490}, issn = {1874-3579}, abstract = {In the last 30 years several cases of West Nile (WN) virus infection were reported in horses and humans in Europe and in the Mediterranean Basin. Most of them were determined by strains of the Lineage 1 included in the European Mediterranean/Kenyan cluster. Strains of this cluster are characterised by a moderate pathogenicity for horses and humans and limited or no pathogenicity for birds. In recent years, however, WN cases determined by strains grouped in the Israeli/American cluster of Lineage 1 or in the lineage 2 have been reported in Hungary and Austria. The role of migrating birds in introducing new viruses to Europe has been often demonstrated. The migratory birds, which may be infected in their African wintering places, carry the virus northward to European sites during spring migrations. In the past, the virus introduction determined occasional cases of WN. In the recent years, new epidemiological scenarios are developing. In few occasions it has been evidenced the capability of WNV strains of overwintering by using local birds and mosquitoes. Species of Culex amongst mosquitoes and magpies (Pica pica), carrion crows (Corvus corone) and rock pigeons (Columba livia) amongst resident birds are the most probable species involved in this hypothetical WND endemic cycle.}, }
@article {pmid20513850, year = {2010}, author = {Isacsson, G and Rich, CL and Jureidini, J and Raven, M}, title = {The increased use of antidepressants has contributed to the worldwide reduction in suicide rates.}, journal = {The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science}, volume = {196}, number = {6}, pages = {429-433}, doi = {10.1192/bjp.bp.109.076166}, pmid = {20513850}, issn = {1472-1465}, mesh = {Antidepressive Agents/*therapeutic use ; Depressive Disorder/*drug therapy ; Humans ; Internationality ; Risk Factors ; Suicide/statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Suicide Prevention ; }, abstract = {Numerous ecological studies have shown an inverse association between antidepressant use and suicide rates and a smaller number of individual-based studies have shown an association between current antidepressant use and reduced suicide risk. Such evidence is often cited in support of the notion that antidepressants prevent suicide. However, more recently, the premises underlying this proposition, namely that suicide is caused by depression and that antidepressants relieve depression, have been challenged and the potential harm caused by antidepressants has been highlighted. In this article, Goran Isacsson and Charles Rich debate with Jon Jureidini and Melissa Raven the motion that the increased use of antidepressants has contributed to the worldwide reduction in suicide rates.}, }
@article {pmid20485685, year = {2010}, author = {Fraser, ON and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Do ravens show consolation? Responses to distressed others.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {5}, number = {5}, pages = {e10605}, pmid = {20485685}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Aggression/psychology ; Animals ; Conflict, Psychological ; *Crows ; *Empathy ; Female ; Male ; Models, Psychological ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Bystander affiliation (post-conflict affiliation from an uninvolved bystander to the conflict victim) may represent an expression of empathy in which the bystander consoles the victim to alleviate the victim's distress ("consolation"). However, alternative hypotheses for the function of bystander affiliation also exist. Determining whether ravens spontaneously offer consolation to distressed partners may not only help us to understand how animals deal with the costs of aggressive conflict, but may also play an important role in the empathy debate.<br><br>This study investigates the post-conflict behavior of ravens, applying the predictive framework for the function of bystander affiliation for the first time in a non-ape species. We found weak evidence for reconciliation (post-conflict affiliation between former opponents), but strong evidence for both bystander affiliation and solicited bystander affiliation (post-conflict affiliation from the victim to a bystander). Bystanders involved in both interactions were likely to share a valuable relationship with the victim. Bystander affiliation offered to the victim was more likely to occur after intense conflicts. Renewed aggression was less likely to occur after the victim solicited affiliation from a bystander.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: Our findings suggest that in ravens, bystanders may console victims with whom they share a valuable relationship, thus alleviating the victims' post-conflict distress. Conversely victims may affiliate with bystanders after a conflict in order to reduce the likelihood of renewed aggression. These results stress the importance of relationship quality in determining the occurrence and function of post-conflict interactions, and show that ravens may be sensitive to the emotions of others.}, }
@article {pmid20479189, year = {2010}, author = {Lewandowsky, S and Oberauer, K and Yang, LX and Ecker, UK}, title = {A working memory test battery for MATLAB.}, journal = {Behavior research methods}, volume = {42}, number = {2}, pages = {571-585}, doi = {10.3758/BRM.42.2.571}, pmid = {20479189}, issn = {1554-3528}, mesh = {Adult ; Asian People ; Female ; Humans ; *Language ; Male ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Models, Psychological ; Psychological Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychometrics/*instrumentation ; Software ; Verbal Behavior ; }, abstract = {We present a battery of four working memory tasks that are implemented using MATLAB and the free Psychophysics Toolbox. The package includes preprocessing scripts in R and SPSS to facilitate data analysis. The four tasks consist of a sentence-span task, an operation-span task, a spatial short-term memory test, and a memory updating task. These tasks were chosen in order to provide a heterogeneous set of measures of working memory capacity, thus reducing method variance and tapping into two content domains of working memory (verbal, including numerical, vs. spatial) and two of its functional aspects (storage in the context of processing and relational integration). The task battery was validated in three experiments conducted in two languages (English and Chinese), involving more than 350 participants. In all cases, the tasks were found to load on a single latent variable. In a further experiment, the latent working memory variable was found to correlate highly but not perfectly with performance on Raven's matrices test of fluid intelligence. We suggest that the battery constitutes a versatile tool to assess working memory capacity with either English- or Chinese-speaking participants. The battery can be downloaded from www.cogsciwa.com ("Software" button).}, }
@article {pmid20479184, year = {2010}, author = {Matzen, LE and Benz, ZO and Dixon, KR and Posey, J and Kroger, JK and Speed, AE}, title = {Recreating Raven's: software for systematically generating large numbers of Raven-like matrix problems with normed properties.}, journal = {Behavior research methods}, volume = {42}, number = {2}, pages = {525-541}, doi = {10.3758/BRM.42.2.525}, pmid = {20479184}, issn = {1554-3528}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/*standards ; Male ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Problem Solving ; *Software ; }, abstract = {Raven's Progressive Matrices is a widely used test for assessing intelligence and reasoning ability (Raven, Court, &amp; Raven, 1998). Since the test is nonverbal, it can be applied to many different populations and has been used all over the world (Court &amp; Raven, 1995). However, relatively few matrices are in the sets developed by Raven, which limits their use in experiments requiring large numbers of stimuli. For the present study, we analyzed the types of relations that appear in Raven's original Standard Progressive Matrices (SPMs) and created a software tool that can combine the same types of relations according to parameters chosen by the experimenter, to produce very large numbers of matrix problems with specific properties. We then conducted a norming study in which the matrices we generated were compared with the actual SPMs. This study showed that the generated matrices both covered and expanded on the range of problem difficulties provided by the SPMs.}, }
@article {pmid20460661, year = {2010}, author = {Kwon, YK and Joh, SJ and Kim, MC and Kang, MS and Lee, YJ and Kwon, JH and Kim, JH}, title = {The susceptibility of magpies to a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus subtype H5N1.}, journal = {Poultry science}, volume = {89}, number = {6}, pages = {1156-1161}, doi = {10.3382/ps.2009-00549}, pmid = {20460661}, issn = {0032-5791}, mesh = {Amantadine/analogs &amp; derivatives ; Animals ; *Disease Susceptibility ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/*pathogenicity ; Influenza in Birds/pathology/*virology ; *Passeriformes ; }, abstract = {Korean wild magpies (Pica pica sericea) were intranasally inoculated with highly pathogenic avian influenza (A/Chicken/Korea/ES/03 virus) (H5N1), which was classified as clade 2.5. We estimated viral replication, death after infection, and histology and immunohistochemistry. This species was highly susceptible to severe infection; 100% of birds died within 5 to 8 d. The virus was detected from oropharyngeal (1 to 5 d postinfection) and cloacal (3 to 5 d postinfection) swabs from infected magpies. At necropsy, the prominent lesions were coalescing necrosis of the pancreas with enlargement of livers and spleens. Microscopically, pancreas, brain, heart, adrenal gland, and kidney were most consistently affected with necrotic and inflammatory changes, and viral antigen was frequently demonstrated in the parenchyma of these organs. As a result, Korean wild magpies were very susceptible to avian influenza (H5N1) virus.}, }
@article {pmid20455102, year = {2010}, author = {Islam, MN and Zhu, XB and Aoyama, M and Sugita, S}, title = {Seasonal morphological changes in the ovary of the Jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Anatomical science international}, volume = {85}, number = {4}, pages = {224-234}, doi = {10.1007/s12565-010-0083-5}, pmid = {20455102}, issn = {1447-073X}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Female ; Humans ; Lipid Metabolism ; Organ Size ; Ovarian Follicle/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Ovary/*anatomy &amp; histology/cytology/metabolism ; *Seasons ; Steroids/biosynthesis ; }, abstract = {Morphometric and histological studies were conducted to examine the seasonal ovarian changes in the Jungle crow of the Kanto area, Japan, from December to June. The ovary weights, largest diameters and atresias of the ovarian follicles and steroid-producing cells were examined. Hematoxylin and eosin-stained ovary sections and ImageJ software were used. The most developed ovary weight increased 373-fold in April, compared to those in December, followed by a 29-fold decrease in June. The average largest follicle diameter of the December and the January ovaries were 1.03 ± 0.35 and 1.05 ± 0.3 mm, respectively. The average largest follicle diameter increased by 2-fold in February, 4-fold in March and 8-fold in April, compared to those of December and January. Thereafter, the average largest follicle diameter declined by 6-fold in June. The average ovary weight and the largest follicle diameter in April increased significantly (P < 0.05) compared to those of December and January, followed by a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in June. The ovary weight correlated well with the expansion of the largest follicular diameter. Non-bursting and bursting atresias of smaller follicles were more common in the December, January, February and June ovaries, and bursting atresias of larger follicles were more common in the March, April and May ovaries. Ovarian steroidogenic cells became heavily charged with lipids in December, January, February and June, and they depleted their lipids in March and April, which might be due to steroid synthesis. Our results indicate that there are significant seasonal histomorphologic variations in the Jungle crow ovary.}, }
@article {pmid20452698, year = {2010}, author = {Cronstein, BN}, title = {Caffeine, a drug for all seasons.}, journal = {Journal of hepatology}, volume = {53}, number = {1}, pages = {207-208}, pmid = {20452698}, issn = {1600-0641}, support = {R01 AR054897/AR/NIAMS NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 RR029893/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AR056672-01S1/AR/NIAMS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AR056672/AR/NIAMS NIH HHS/United States ; R56 AR056672/AR/NIAMS NIH HHS/United States ; UL1 RR029893-02/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AR054897-02/AR/NIAMS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AR056672-02/AR/NIAMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Increased caffeine consumption is associated with reduced hepatic fibrosis. Apurva A. Modi, Jordan J. Feld, Yoon Park,David E. Kleiner, James E. Everhart, T. Jake Liang, Jay H. Hoofnagle. Hepatology, 2010 Jan;51(1):201-9.}, }
@article {pmid20450011, year = {2010}, author = {Okulewicz, A and Okulewicz, J and Sitko, J and Wesołowska, M}, title = {New records of digenean flukes (Trematoda) in birds in Poland.}, journal = {Wiadomosci parazytologiczne}, volume = {56}, number = {1}, pages = {67-70}, pmid = {20450011}, issn = {0043-5163}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*parasitology ; Host-Parasite Interactions ; Poland ; Species Specificity ; Trematoda/*classification/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Eleven new records of digenean species are reported in birds in Poland, i.e. Tylodelphys immer found in Gavia stellata, Strigea vanderbrokae in Pernis apivorus, Echinostoma academica in Numenius arquata, Echinochasmus euryporus in Buteo buteo, Patagifer parvispinosus and Petasiger grandivesicularis in Tachybaptus ruficollis, Notocotyloides petasatus in Calidris alpina, Plagiorchis arcuatus in Corvus cornix, Leyogonimus polyoon in Gallinula chloropus and Fulica atra, Lyperosomum alaudae in Sylvia atricapilla and Alauda arvenis, and Collyricloides massanae in Turdus merula. The latter finding constitutes a new host record (globally).}, }
@article {pmid20444716, year = {2010}, author = {Townsend, AK and Clark, AB and McGowan, KJ and Miller, AD and Buckles, EL}, title = {Condition, innate immunity and disease mortality of inbred crows.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {277}, number = {1695}, pages = {2875-2883}, pmid = {20444716}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*immunology/microbiology/*mortality ; Crows/genetics/microbiology/*physiology ; Escherichia coli Infections/immunology/microbiology/mortality/*veterinary ; Female ; Immunity, Innate ; Immunocompetence ; *Inbreeding ; Male ; Microsatellite Repeats/genetics ; Nesting Behavior ; Population Dynamics ; Sexual Behavior, Animal ; }, abstract = {Cooperatively breeding American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) suffer a severe disease-mediated survival cost from inbreeding, but the proximate mechanisms linking inbreeding to disease are unknown. Here, we examine indices of nestling body condition and innate immunocompetence in relationship to inbreeding and disease mortality. Using an estimate of microsatellite heterozygosity that predicts inbreeding in this population, we show that inbred crows were in relatively poor condition as nestlings, and that body condition index measured in the first 2-33 days after hatching, in addition to inbreeding index, predicted disease probability in the first 34 months of life. Inbred nestlings also mounted a weaker response along one axis of innate immunity: the proportion of bacteria killed in a microbiocidal assay increased as heterozygosity index increased. Relatively poor body condition and low innate immunocompetence are two mechanisms that might predispose inbred crows to ultimate disease mortality. A better understanding of condition-mediated inbreeding depression can guide efforts to minimize disease costs of inbreeding in small populations.}, }
@article {pmid20438253, year = {2010}, author = {Andrews, S and Hersch, J}, title = {Lexical precision in skilled readers: Individual differences in masked neighbor priming.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. General}, volume = {139}, number = {2}, pages = {299-318}, doi = {10.1037/a0018366}, pmid = {20438253}, issn = {1939-2222}, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; *Cognition ; *Comprehension ; Female ; Humans ; *Individuality ; Male ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Perceptual Masking ; Psychomotor Performance ; Reaction Time ; *Reading ; Regression Analysis ; Vocabulary ; }, abstract = {Two experiments investigated the relationship between masked form priming and individual differences in reading and spelling proficiency among university students. Experiment 1 assessed neighbor priming for 4-letter word targets from high- and low-density neighborhoods in 97 university students. The overall results replicated previous evidence of facilitatory neighborhood priming only for low-neighborhood words. However, analyses including measures of reading and spelling proficiency as covariates revealed that better spellers showed inhibitory priming for high-neighborhood words, while poorer spellers showed facilitatory priming. Experiment 2, with 123 participants, replicated the finding of stronger inhibitory neighbor priming in better spellers using 5-letter words and distinguished facilitatory and inhibitory components of priming by comparing neighbor primes with ambiguous and unambiguous partial-word primes (e.g., crow#, cr#wd, crown CROWD). The results indicate that spelling ability is selectively associated with inhibitory effects of lexical competition. The implications for theories of visual word recognition and the lexical quality hypothesis of reading skill are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid20437062, year = {2010}, author = {Ziegler, U and Seidowski, D and Globig, A and Fereidouni, SR and Ulrich, RG and Groschup, MH}, title = {Sentinel birds in wild-bird resting sites as potential indicators for West Nile virus infections in Germany.}, journal = {Archives of virology}, volume = {155}, number = {6}, pages = {965-969}, doi = {10.1007/s00705-010-0618-z}, pmid = {20437062}, issn = {1432-8798}, mesh = {*Animal Migration ; Animals ; Animals, Wild/*virology ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Bird Diseases/diagnosis/epidemiology/virology ; Birds/*virology ; Ducks/*virology ; Germany ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Sentinel Surveillance/*veterinary ; West Nile Fever/*veterinary/virology ; *West Nile virus/genetics/immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-transmitted flavivirus with wild birds as its natural hosts. Ravens, falcons and jays are highly susceptible for WNV and develop deadly encephalitis, while other bird species undergo only subclinical infections. Migratory birds are efficient vectors for geographic spreading of WNV. Until now, WNV infections have not been diagnosed in Germany, but infections in humans and horses have occurred recently in Austria, Hungary and Italy. To investigate potential WNV introduction by infected wild birds, we have monitored the serological status of ducks in three national sentinel stations. No WNV-positive reactions were found, whereas sera from coots from northern Iran were positive.}, }
@article {pmid20433571, year = {2010}, author = {Carretti, B and Belacchi, C and Cornoldi, C}, title = {Difficulties in working memory updating in individuals with intellectual disability.}, journal = {Journal of intellectual disability research : JIDR}, volume = {54}, number = {4}, pages = {337-345}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2788.2010.01267.x}, pmid = {20433571}, issn = {1365-2788}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*epidemiology ; Male ; Memory Disorders/*diagnosis/*epidemiology ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Despite the critical role attributed to working memory (WM) updating for executive functions and fluid intelligence, no research has yet been carried out on its specific role in the vital case of fluid intelligence weakness, represented by individuals with intellectual disability (ID). Furthermore, the relationship between updating and other WM functions has not been considered in depth.<br><br>METHOD: The current study examines these areas by proposing a battery of WM tasks (varying in degree of active attentional control requested) and one updating task to groups of ID individuals and typically developing children, matched for fluid intelligence performance.<br><br>RESULTS: Comparison between the group of ID individuals and a group of children showed that, despite being matched on the Raven test, the updating measure significantly differentiated the groups as well as the WM complex span. Furthermore, updating proved to be the task with the greatest power in discriminating between groups.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our results confirm the importance of the demand for active attentional control in explaining the role of WM in fluid intelligence performance, and in particular show that updating information in WM plays an important role in the distinction between typically developing children and ID individuals.}, }
@article {pmid20428748, year = {2010}, author = {Ong, LC and Chandran, V and Lim, YY and Chen, AH and Poh, BK}, title = {Factors associated with poor academic achievement among urban primary school children in Malaysia.}, journal = {Singapore medical journal}, volume = {51}, number = {3}, pages = {247-252}, pmid = {20428748}, issn = {2737-5935}, mesh = {Audiometry ; Child ; Child Welfare ; Cognition ; Confidence Intervals ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Educational Measurement ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Logistic Models ; Malaysia ; Male ; Odds Ratio ; Regression Analysis ; Risk Factors ; *Schools ; Sex Factors ; Socioeconomic Factors ; *Students ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Urban Population ; Vision Tests ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with poor academic achievement during the early school years.<br><br>METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study of urban Primary Two children. Sociodemographic and medical data were obtained from questionnaires and interviews. Achievement was based on marks obtained in the core subjects of the Primary One examination. All students underwent the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices test as a general measure of cognitive ability, audiometry and visual tests, and standardised measurements of weight and height.<br><br>RESULTS: Out of 1,470 eligible children, 206 (14 percent) had poor academic achievement. Of the 919 children who participated in the study, 111 (12.1 percent) had poor achievement compared with 95 (17.2 percent) of the 551 non-participants. Using logistic regression analysis, the factors that were found to be independently associated with poor academic achievement were lower mean Raven scores (p-value is less than 0.001), lower mean socioeconomic status scores (p-value is less than 0.001), larger sibship size (p-value is 0.031), male gender (odds ratio [OR] 1.7; 95 percent confidence interval [CI] 1.1-2.65) and a history of prematurity (OR 14; 95 percent CI 2-97.8).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Cognitive ability, gender, prematurity and social factors contribute to poor academic achievement during the early school years. The higher proportion of poor achievers among non-participants warrants further attention.}, }
@article {pmid20425125, year = {2010}, author = {Koenig, WD and Hochachka, WM and Zuckerberg, B and Dickinson, JL}, title = {Ecological determinants of American crow mortality due to West Nile virus during its North American sweep.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {163}, number = {4}, pages = {903-909}, pmid = {20425125}, issn = {1432-1939}, mesh = {Animals ; Biodiversity ; Bird Diseases/*mortality ; Cities ; Crows/*virology ; Humans ; Population Density ; United States/epidemiology ; Weather ; West Nile Fever/mortality/*veterinary ; *West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {We examined the ecological factors influencing population declines in American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) as they were initially exposed to West Nile virus (WNV), a pathogen first detected in the US in 1999 that has since become one of North America's most prevalent vector-borne pathogens. The strongest effects were initial crow population density (denser populations were more likely to suffer declines), avian species diversity (populations in areas with high diversity were less likely to suffer a decline), human population density (populations were more likely to decline in more urban areas), and time since the pathogen's introduction to the US (populations exposed to the pathogen later in its North American sweep were less likely to suffer declines than those exposed earlier). Variables that played only a minor role included rainfall, mean maximum temperature, and total number of birds, used as a proxy for the overall reservoir competence of the community. These findings indicate that WNV declined in virulence during its rapid 5-year sweep and support the importance of the 'dilution effect' whereby a diverse host community dampens pathogen transmission and potentially slows its rate of spread. Results underscore the need for considering the entire community when trying to understand the factors shaping disease risk.}, }
@article {pmid20420180, year = {2010}, author = {Kuwabara, S}, title = {[Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome].}, journal = {Brain and nerve = Shinkei kenkyu no shinpo}, volume = {62}, number = {4}, pages = {395-400}, pmid = {20420180}, issn = {1881-6096}, mesh = {Angiogenesis Inhibitors/administration &amp; dosage ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/administration &amp; dosage ; Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized ; Bevacizumab ; Humans ; Immunoglobulin lambda-Chains/genetics ; Lenalidomide ; Melphalan/administration &amp; dosage ; *POEMS Syndrome/diagnosis/epidemiology/etiology/therapy ; *Paraneoplastic Syndromes, Nervous System ; Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation ; Thalidomide/administration &amp; dosage/analogs &amp; derivatives ; Transplantation, Autologous ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/immunology ; }, abstract = {Crow-Fukase syndrome is also called POEMS (polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M-protein, and skin changes) syndrome and is a rare cause of demyelinating and axonal mixed neuropathy with multiorgan involvement. The pathogenesis of Crow-Fukase syndrome is not well understood, but overproduction of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), probably mediated by monoclonal proliferation of plasma cells, is likely to be responsible for most of the characteristic symptoms. However, other cytokines are also upregulated and could contribute to the pathophysiology of this syndrome. The etiopathophysiology of peripheral neuropathy is unclear, but VEGF may affect the blood-nerve barrier and allow some neurotoxic substances in the serum to access the nerve parenchyma, resulting in nerve demyelination. Moreover, microangiopathy due to proliferative endothelial cells and hypercoagulability may contribute to the development of neuropathy. A recent molecular biological study has shown oligoclonal usage of V(lambda) subfamily in light chain of the M-protein, suggesting that particular patterns of V(lambda) gene are associated with the development of Crow-Fukase syndrome. There is no established treatment regimen for this syndrome. In appropriate candidates, high-dose chemotherapies with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation is highly recommended, because this treatment can cause obvious improvement in neuropathy as well as other symptoms, with a significant decrease in serum VEGF levels. The indication for this treatment has not yet been established, and the long-term prognosis is unclear. Potential future therapies include the administration of thalidomide or lenalidomide, and anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody (bevacizumab).}, }
@article {pmid20417976, year = {2011}, author = {Oron, Y and Zwecker-Lazar, I and Levy, D and Kreitler, S and Roth, Y}, title = {Cerumen removal: comparison of cerumenolytic agents and effect on cognition among the elderly.}, journal = {Archives of gerontology and geriatrics}, volume = {52}, number = {2}, pages = {228-232}, doi = {10.1016/j.archger.2010.03.025}, pmid = {20417976}, issn = {1872-6976}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Arachis ; Benzocaine/administration &amp; dosage ; Carbamide Peroxide ; *Cerumen ; Cerumenolytic Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Chlorobenzenes/administration &amp; dosage ; Chlorobutanol/administration &amp; dosage ; *Cognition ; Drug Combinations ; *Ear Canal ; Female ; Hearing Disorders/*etiology/prevention &amp; control ; Humans ; Male ; Olive Oil ; Peroxides/administration &amp; dosage ; Plant Oils/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Prospective Studies ; Quality of Life ; Therapeutic Irrigation ; Treatment Outcome ; Urea/administration &amp; dosage/analogs &amp; derivatives ; }, abstract = {Cerumen impaction may affect hearing and decrease hearing acuity, thus decreasing cognitive functions among the elderly. The objective of this study was to compare the safety and the efficacy of three cerumenolytic agents and to assess the effect of cerumen removal on cognition. Thirty eight elderly subjects (mean age: 78 years, total 76 ears) were treated with either Auro®, Cerumol® or the newer CleanEars®, and the change in the degree of ear canal occlusion was examined after a week. In addition, a change in cognition following cerumen removal was evaluated using Raven's standard progressive matrices (RSPM) test. There was no difference regarding the eventual degree of occlusion between the three treatment groups. Only in the CleanEars® group a complete resolution of obstruction in both ears was achieved. A statistically significant difference between the RSPM score before and after the removal of cerumen was found. Using CleanEars® is as effective and safe as other agents and may be advantageous due to its spray application. Removal of cerumen significantly improves the well-being of elderly patients.}, }
@article {pmid20411803, year = {2010}, author = {Kuwabara, S}, title = {[Advances and perspectives in treatment for refractory neuropathies with special reference to immune-mediated neuropathies and Crow-Fukase syndrome].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {50}, number = {4}, pages = {219-224}, doi = {10.5692/clinicalneurol.50.219}, pmid = {20411803}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use ; Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized ; Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived ; Autoantibodies ; Bevacizumab ; Guillain-Barre Syndrome/immunology/*therapy ; Humans ; Immunosuppressive Agents/therapeutic use ; Myelin-Associated Glycoprotein/immunology ; POEMS Syndrome/immunology/*therapy ; Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation ; Polyradiculoneuropathy, Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating/immunology/*therapy ; Rituximab ; Thalidomide/therapeutic use ; Transplantation, Autologous ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/immunology ; }, abstract = {There are significant advances in immune-modulating treatments for Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) in the past 20 years. GBS, however, is still a serious disease with a mortality rate of 8% and 20% of the patients being unable to walk independently a year after onset For CIDP and related disorders such as multifocal motor neuropathy, and demyeinating neuropathy with anti-myelin-associated-glycoprotein (MAG) antibody, treatments should be based on individual pathophysiology. Rituximab could be a promising agent for the subtypes of CIDP refractory to conventional immune treatments. Crow-Fukase syndrome is a rare cause of demyelinating neuropathy with multiorgan involvement Overproduction of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), probably mediated by monoclonal proliferation of plasma cells, is likely to be responsible for most of the characteristic symptoms. There is no established treatment regimen for Crow-Fukase syndrome. In appropriate candidates, high-dose chemotherapies with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation is highly recommended, because this treatment could result in obvious improvement in neuropathy as well as other symptoms. Indication of this treatment has not yet been established, and long-term prognosis is unclear at present. Treatments that should be considered as future therapy against Crow-Fukase syndrome include thalidomide, and anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody (bevacizumab).}, }
@article {pmid20410677, year = {2010}, author = {Tsukahara, N and Tani, Y and Lee, E and Kikuchi, H and Endoh, K and Ichikawa, M and Sugita, S}, title = {Microstructure characteristics of the cornea in birds and mammals.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {72}, number = {9}, pages = {1137-1143}, doi = {10.1292/jvms.09-0470}, pmid = {20410677}, issn = {0916-7250}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Birds ; Chickens ; Collagen/analysis ; Coloring Agents ; Cornea/*cytology/ultrastructure ; Crows ; Mammals ; Microfibrils/ultrastructure ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Rabbits ; Rats ; }, abstract = {In this study, the microstructure of the cornea was compared among chickens (Gallus gallus), jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos), rats (Rattus norvegicus) and rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). The density of keratocytes in the mammals was over 3 times that in the birds. The size of the keratocytes in the birds and rat were significantly lower than those in the rabbit. Using scanning and transmission electron microscopy, the bundles of collagen fibers in the birds were found to be well arranged, while those in the mammals were arranged randomly. The collagen lamellae of the birds were significantly thicker than those of the mammals, and the numbers of collagen lamellae in the birds were significantly smaller than in the mammals. The center-to-center distances between the collagen fibrils of the chicken and rabbit were significantly larger than those of the crow and rat. The densities of collagen fibrils in the chicken and rabbit were significantly less than those of the crow and rat.}, }
@article {pmid20410040, year = {2010}, author = {Taylor, AH and Elliffe, D and Hunt, GR and Gray, RD}, title = {Complex cognition and behavioural innovation in New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {277}, number = {1694}, pages = {2637-2643}, pmid = {20410040}, issn = {1471-2954}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Cognition ; Crows/*physiology ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Apes, corvids and parrots all show high rates of behavioural innovation in the wild. However, it is unclear whether this innovative behaviour is underpinned by cognition more complex than simple learning mechanisms. To investigate this question we presented New Caledonian crows with a novel three-stage metatool problem. The task involved three distinct stages: (i) obtaining a short stick by pulling up a string, (ii) using the short stick as a metatool to extract a long stick from a toolbox, and finally (iii) using the long stick to extract food from a hole. Crows with previous experience of the behaviours in stages 1-3 linked them into a novel sequence to solve the problem on the first trial. Crows with experience of only using string and tools to access food also successfully solved the problem. This innovative use of established behaviours in novel contexts was not based on resurgence, chaining and conditional reinforcement. Instead, the performance was consistent with the transfer of an abstract, causal rule: 'out-of-reach objects can be accessed using a tool'. This suggests that high innovation rates in the wild may reflect complex cognitive abilities that supplement basic learning mechanisms.}, }
@article {pmid20408013, year = {2010}, author = {Klein, J}, title = {The Lesbian Art Project.}, journal = {Journal of lesbian studies}, volume = {14}, number = {2}, pages = {238-259}, doi = {10.1080/10894160903196541}, pmid = {20408013}, issn = {1540-3548}, mesh = {Art/*history ; Female ; Feminism/history ; History, 20th Century ; Homosexuality, Female/*history ; Humans ; Los Angeles ; Social Identification ; Social Perception ; Stereotyping ; Universities/*history ; }, abstract = {Critics and artists influenced by the tenets of queer theory have dismissed much of the artwork made in the 1970s from a lesbian feminist perspective. The result has been very little being known or written about this pioneering work. This article is concerned with exploring an often overlooked aspect of lesbian art history: the activities and events associated with the Lesbian Art Project (LAP) founded by Terry Wolverton and Arlene Raven at the Woman's Building in Los Angeles. I argue that what is most significant about the LAP is the way in which the participants articulated lesbian identity and lesbian community through performance, art making, and writing.}, }
@article {pmid20406721, year = {2010}, author = {Edwards, SC and Jedrychowski, W and Butscher, M and Camann, D and Kieltyka, A and Mroz, E and Flak, E and Li, Z and Wang, S and Rauh, V and Perera, F}, title = {Prenatal exposure to airborne polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and children's intelligence at 5 years of age in a prospective cohort study in Poland.}, journal = {Environmental health perspectives}, volume = {118}, number = {9}, pages = {1326-1331}, pmid = {20406721}, issn = {1552-9924}, support = {R01 ES010165/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; 1R01ES010165-01/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Air Pollutants/*toxicity ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*drug effects ; Male ; Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons/*toxicity ; Pregnancy ; Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects ; Prospective Studies ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In this prospective cohort study of Caucasian mothers and children in Krakow, Poland, we evaluated the role of prenatal exposure to urban air pollutants in the pathogenesis of neurobehavioral disorders.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between prenatal polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) exposure and child intelligence at 5 years of age, controlling for potential confounders suspected to play a role in neurodevelopment.<br><br>METHODS: A cohort of pregnant, healthy, nonsmoking women was enrolled in Krakow, Poland, between 2001 and 2006. During pregnancy, participants were invited to complete a questionnaire and undergo 48-hr personal air monitoring to estimate their babies' exposure, and to provide a blood sample and/or a cord blood sample at the time of delivery. Two hundred fourteen children were followed through 5 years of age, when their nonverbal reasoning ability was assessed using the Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM).<br><br>RESULTS: We found that higher (above the median of 17.96 ng/m3) prenatal exposure to airborne PAHs (range, 1.8-272.2 ng/m3) was associated with decreased RCPM scores at 5 years of age, after adjusting for potential confounding variables (n = 214). Further adjusting for maternal intelligence, lead, or dietary PAHs did not alter this association. The reduction in RCPM score associated with high airborne PAH exposure corresponded to an estimated average decrease of 3.8 IQ points.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that prenatal exposure to airborne PAHs adversely affects children's cognitive development by 5 years of age, with potential implications for school performance. They are consistent with a recent finding in a parallel cohort in New York City.}, }
@article {pmid20406278, year = {2010}, author = {de Castro, MA and Poi, WR and de Castro, JC and Panzarini, SR and Sonoda, CK and Trevisan, CL and Luvizuto, ER}, title = {Crown and crown-root fractures: an evaluation of the treatment plans for management proposed by 154 specialists in restorative dentistry.}, journal = {Dental traumatology : official publication of International Association for Dental Traumatology}, volume = {26}, number = {3}, pages = {236-242}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-9657.2010.00871.x}, pmid = {20406278}, issn = {1600-9657}, mesh = {Clinical Competence ; Composite Resins ; Crown Lengthening ; Dental Enamel/injuries ; Dental Materials ; Dental Prosthesis ; Dental Pulp Exposure/therapy ; Dental Restoration, Permanent/methods ; Dentin/injuries ; *Dentistry, Operative/education ; Education, Dental, Graduate ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Orthodontic Extrusion ; *Patient Care Planning ; Prognosis ; Pulpectomy ; Root Canal Therapy ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Tooth Crown/*injuries ; Tooth Fractures/*therapy ; Tooth Root/*injuries ; }, abstract = {Traumatic tooth injuries involve function and aesthetics and cause damage that range from minimal enamel loss to complex fractures involving the pulp tissue and even loss of the tooth crown. Technical knowledge and clinical experience are essential to establish an accurate diagnosis and provide a rational treatment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the knowledge of Restorative Dentistry specialists about the management of crown and crown-root fractures based on treatment plans proposed by these professionals for these cases. A descriptive questionnaire was mailed to 245 Restorative Dentistry specialists with questions referring to their professional profile and the treatment plans they would propose for the management of crown and crow-root fractures resulting from dental trauma. One hundred and fifty-four questionnaires were returned properly filled. The data were subjected to descriptive statistics and the chi-square test was used to determine the frequency and the level of the significance among the variables. The analysis of data showed that in spite of having a specialist title, all interviewees had great difficulty in planning the treatments. As much as 42.8% of the participants were unable to treat all types of dental trauma. Complicated and uncomplicated crown-root fractures posed the greatest difficulties for the dentists to establish adequate treatment plans because these fractures require multidisciplinary knowledge and approach for a correct case planning and prognosis.}, }
@article {pmid20396941, year = {2010}, author = {Nagarajan, S and Tosh, C and Murugkar, HV and Venkatesh, G and Katare, M and Jain, R and Behera, P and Khandia, R and Tripathi, S and Kulkarni, DD and Dubey, SC}, title = {Isolation and molecular characterization of a H5N1 virus isolated from a Jungle crow (Corvus macrohynchos) in India.}, journal = {Virus genes}, volume = {41}, number = {1}, pages = {30-36}, pmid = {20396941}, issn = {1572-994X}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows ; India ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Influenza in Birds/*virology ; Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {In 2008, India experienced widespread outbreaks of H5N1 virus in West Bengal, Tripura, and Assam. The virus was detected in Kamrup district of Assam in November 2008 and subsequently spread to eight more districts. Two Jungle or Large billed crows (Corvus macrohynchos) were found dead in a hospital campus at about 8 km from the foci of initial detection of the virus in the same district. One of the crows was positive for H5N1 avian influenza virus by virus isolation, real time RT-PCR, and RT-PCR tests. Full length sequencing of all the eight segments of the virus was carried out. The phylogenetic analysis indicated that all the eight genes grouped with clade 2.2 viruses and were closely related to the human isolate of Bangladesh and avian isolates from India, Bangladesh, Kuwait, Germany, and Saudi Arabia. The molecular analysis indicated avian receptor (alpha 2,3 sialic acid) specificity, susceptibility to oseltamivir and amantadine group of antivirals and lower pathogenicity to mice.}, }
@article {pmid20379471, year = {2010}, author = {Bakar, EE and Bakar, B}, title = {Neuropsychological assessment of adult patients with shunted hydrocephalus.}, journal = {Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society}, volume = {47}, number = {3}, pages = {191-198}, pmid = {20379471}, issn = {1598-7876}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study is planned to determine the neurocognitive difficulties of hydrocephalic adults.<br><br>METHODS: THE RESEARCH GROUP CONTAINED HEALTHY ADULTS (CONTROL GROUP, N : 15), and hydrocephalic adults (n : 15). Hydrocephalic group consisted of patients with idiopathic aquaduct stenosis and post-meningitis hydrocephalus. All patients were followed with shunted hydrocephalus and not gone to shunt revision during last two years. They were chosen from either asymptomatic or had only minor symptoms without motor and sensorineural deficit. A neuropsychological test battery (Raven Standart Progressive Matrices, Bender-Gestalt Test, Cancellation Test, Clock Drawing Test, Facial Recognition Test, Line Orientation Test, Serial Digit Learning Test, Stroop Color Word Interference Test-TBAG Form, Verbal Fluency Test, Verbal Fluency Test, Visual-Aural Digit Span Test-B) was applied to all groups.<br><br>RESULTS: Neuropsychological assessment of hydrocephalic patients demonstrated that they had poor performance on visual, semantic and working memory, visuoconstructive and frontal functions, reading, attention, motor coordination and executive function of parietal lobe which related with complex and perseverative behaviour. Eventually, these patients had significant impairment on the neurocognitive functions of their frontal, parietal and temporal lobes. On the other hand, the statistical analyses performed on demographic data showed that the aetiology of the hydrocephalus, age, sex and localization of the shunt (frontal or posterior parietal) did not affect the test results.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This prospective study showed that adult patients with hydrocephalus have serious neuropsychological problems which might be directly caused by the hydrocephalus; and these problems may cause serious adaptive difficulties in their social, cultural, behavioral and academic life.}, }
@article {pmid20370425, year = {2010}, author = {Ward, MP and Beveroth, TA and Lampman, R and Raim, A and Enstrom, D and Novak, R}, title = {Field-based estimates of avian mortality from West Nile virus infection.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {10}, number = {9}, pages = {909-913}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2008.0198}, pmid = {20370425}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Bird Diseases/*mortality ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay ; Female ; Male ; Passeriformes/virology ; West Nile Fever/mortality/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/physiology ; }, abstract = {One of the unique characteristics of West Nile virus (WNV) in North America is the large number of bird species for which the virus can be fatal. WNV mortality has been documented through experimental infections of captive birds and necropsies of free-ranging birds. Investigations of WNV-related mortality in wild birds often focus on species with dramatic population declines (e.g., American Crow, Corvus brachyrhynchos); however, few studies have addressed WNV-related mortality in species not exhibiting marked population declines since the arrival of WNV. We conducted a mark-recapture study of 204 Northern Cardinals (Cardinalis cardinalis) in an area with endemic WNV activity to estimate WNV-related mortality. Previous research has shown that once a bird is infected and recovers from WNV it develops antibodies making it resistant to future infection. Assuming that mortality risks from non-WNV causes were the same for individuals with (had been exposed to WNV) and without antibodies (had not been exposed to WNV), we compared the survival rates of birds with and without WNV antibodies to estimate the impact of WNV on wild birds. An information theoretic approach was used, and the apparent survival was found to be 34.6% lower for individuals without antibodies during the period when WNV was most active (July-September). However, the apparent survival rate was 9.0% higher for individuals without antibodies over the rest of the year. These differences in apparent survival suggest that WNV increases mortality during the WNV season and that chronic effects of WNV infection may also be contributing to mortality. Although WNV appears to have increased mortality rates within the population, population trend data do not indicate declines, suggesting that some cardinal populations can compensate for WNV-related mortality.}, }
@article {pmid20368377, year = {2009}, author = {Tupe, RP and Chiplonkar, SA}, title = {Zinc supplementation improved cognitive performance and taste acuity in Indian adolescent girls.}, journal = {Journal of the American College of Nutrition}, volume = {28}, number = {4}, pages = {388-396}, doi = {10.1080/07315724.2009.10718101}, pmid = {20368377}, issn = {1541-1087}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Dietary Supplements ; Eating ; Female ; Hemoglobins/metabolism ; Humans ; India ; Iron/blood ; Reaction Time/drug effects ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; Taste/*drug effects ; Zinc/*administration &amp; dosage/blood ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To test the efficacy of zinc supplementation through diet or ayurvedic zinc tablet on cognitive function and taste acuity in adolescent girls.<br><br>METHODS: Using zinc-rich food items, snacks were prepared by adopting food-processing methods that enhance zinc bioavailability. Ayurvedic zinc tablet (jasad bhasma) was chosen as a natural elemental zinc supplement. Efficacy of snacks and the tablet was assessed in 180 schoolgirls (12.5 +/- 0.85 years) from Pune City, India, who were randomly allocated to any of the 3 groups: (1) ayurvedic zinc tablet-J, (2) zinc-rich snacks-D, or (3) Control-C. Supplementation was given on every school day (6 days/wk) for 10 weeks. All measurements were recorded at baseline and at the end of the study period. Food intake was recorded by 24-hour diet recall on 3 random days. Hemoglobin, serum ferritin, and plasma zinc were estimated on a fasting blood sample. Cognitive assessment was done on each participant using tests for simple reaction time (SRT), recognition reaction time (RRT), visual memory, and Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM). Taste acuity was determined by recognition thresholds for salt (RTS) over a range of 10 different salt concentrations.<br><br>RESULTS: A higher increase in plasma zinc (61.3%) was observed in the J group than in the D group (9.9%) (p < 0.01), whereas plasma zinc declined in the control group (-2.2%) over baseline (p > 0.1). Hemoglobin showed no change in all 3 groups (p > 0.1). Percent increment in scores for memory and RPM was significantly more in the D and J groups (24.5%-29.6%) than in the C group (6.5%) (p < 0.05). Mean SRT and RRT were reduced more in the D and J groups (5%-16%) than in the C group (1.6%) (p < 0.05). A significant fall in median RTS from 5 to 2.5 mmol/L was noted after both diet and zinc supplementation (p < 0.01); however, it remained the same at 5 mmol/L in the Control group after 10 weeks.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Supplementation of ayurvedic zinc and zinc-rich foods are effective in improving cognitive performance and the recognition threshold for salt of adolescent girls.}, }
@article {pmid20365394, year = {2010}, author = {Park, JM and Muñoz, E and Deem, MW}, title = {Quasispecies theory for finite populations.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {81}, number = {1 Pt 1}, pages = {011902}, pmid = {20365394}, issn = {1550-2376}, support = {R90 DK071504/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Algorithms ; *Biological Evolution ; Computer Simulation ; Gene Transfer, Horizontal ; *Models, Biological ; Mutation ; Probability ; *Stochastic Processes ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {We present stochastic, finite-population formulations of the Crow-Kimura and Eigen models of quasispecies theory, for fitness functions that depend in an arbitrary way on the number of mutations from the wild type. We include back mutations in our description. We show that the fluctuation of the population numbers about the average values is exceedingly large in these physical models of evolution. We further show that horizontal gene transfer reduces by orders of magnitude the fluctuations in the population numbers and reduces the accumulation of deleterious mutations in the finite population due to Muller's ratchet. Indeed, the population sizes needed to converge to the infinite population limit are often larger than those found in nature for smooth fitness functions in the absence of horizontal gene transfer. These analytical results are derived for the steady state by means of a field-theoretic representation. Numerical results are presented that indicate horizontal gene transfer speeds up the dynamics of evolution as well.}, }
@article {pmid20362990, year = {2010}, author = {Danso, KA and Opare-Addo, HS}, title = {Challenges associated with hypertensive disease during pregnancy in low-income countries.}, journal = {International journal of gynaecology and obstetrics: the official organ of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics}, volume = {110}, number = {1}, pages = {78-81}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijgo.2010.01.026}, pmid = {20362990}, issn = {1879-3479}, mesh = {Anticonvulsants/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Antihypertensive Agents/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Developing Countries ; Eclampsia/drug therapy/prevention &amp; control ; Female ; Humans ; Hypertension, Pregnancy-Induced/diagnosis/*drug therapy/prevention &amp; control ; Magnesium Sulfate/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Pregnancy ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To assess the challenges associated with the diagnosis, management, and prevention of hypertensive disease during pregnancy in low-income countries, following the success of the Magpie Trial.<br><br>METHODS: Descriptive review of the literature from 1990 to 2009 on the diagnosis, management, and prevention of hypertensive disease in pregnancy.<br><br>RESULTS: In the absence of credible measures to predict and prevent hypertension in pregnancy, diagnosis and treatment remain the only viable options, although they are still associated with important challenges in low-income countries. Despite the presence of high-quality evidence that magnesium sulfate is safe and effective at preventing and treating eclampsia, its use is extremely limited in many low-income countries.<br><br>CONCLUSION: There is a need for cheap and reliable tools with which to address the diagnostic, preventive, and management challenges associated with hypertensive disease during pregnancy in low-income countries. It is recommended that such countries incorporate magnesium sulfate protocols into their national health and/or practice policies.}, }
@article {pmid20356954, year = {2010}, author = {Hassan, H and Scheres, B and Blilou, I}, title = {JACKDAW controls epidermal patterning in the Arabidopsis root meristem through a non-cell-autonomous mechanism.}, journal = {Development (Cambridge, England)}, volume = {137}, number = {9}, pages = {1523-1529}, doi = {10.1242/dev.048777}, pmid = {20356954}, issn = {1477-9129}, mesh = {Arabidopsis/cytology/genetics/*metabolism ; Arabidopsis Proteins/genetics/*physiology ; Carrier Proteins/genetics/*physiology ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant/genetics/physiology ; Meristem/cytology/genetics/*metabolism ; Microscopy, Confocal ; Plant Epidermis/cytology/genetics/*metabolism ; Plant Roots/cytology/genetics/*metabolism ; Plants, Genetically Modified/cytology/genetics/metabolism ; }, abstract = {In Arabidopsis, specification of the hair and non-hair epidermal cell types is position dependent, in that hair cells arise over clefts in the underlying cortical cell layer. Epidermal patterning is determined by a network of transcriptional regulators that respond to an as yet unknown cue from underlying tissues. Previously, we showed that JACKDAW (JKD), a zinc finger protein, localizes in the quiescent centre and the ground tissue, and regulates tissue boundaries and asymmetric cell division by delimiting SHORT-ROOT movement. Here, we provide evidence that JKD controls position-dependent signals that regulate epidermal-cell-type patterning. JKD is required for appropriately patterned expression of the epidermal cell fate regulators GLABRA2, CAPRICE and WEREWOLF. Genetic interaction studies indicate that JKD operates upstream of the epidermal patterning network in a SCRAMBLED (SCM)-dependent fashion after embryogenesis, but acts independent of SCM in embryogenesis. Tissue-specific induction experiments indicate non-cell-autonomous action of JKD from the underlying cortex cell layer to specify epidermal cell fate. Our findings are consistent with a model where JKD induces a signal in every cortex cell that is more abundant in the hair cell position owing to the larger surface contact of cells located over a cleft.}, }
@article {pmid20331778, year = {2010}, author = {Wolf, JB and Bayer, T and Haubold, B and Schilhabel, M and Rosenstiel, P and Tautz, D}, title = {Nucleotide divergence vs. gene expression differentiation: comparative transcriptome sequencing in natural isolates from the carrion crow and its hybrid zone with the hooded crow.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {19 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {162-175}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2009.04471.x}, pmid = {20331778}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; Cluster Analysis ; Comparative Genomic Hybridization ; Crows/*genetics ; Expressed Sequence Tags ; Gene Expression ; *Gene Expression Profiling ; *Hybridization, Genetic ; Pilot Projects ; Sequence Analysis, DNA/methods ; }, abstract = {Recent advances in sequencing technology promise to provide new strategies for studying population differentiation and speciation phenomena in their earliest phases. We focus here on the black carrion crow (Corvus [corone] corone), which forms a zone of hybridization and overlap with the grey coated hooded crow (Corvus [corone] cornix). However, although these semispecies are taxonomically distinct, previous analyses based on several types of genetic markers did not reveal significant molecular differentiation between them. We here corroborate this result with sequence data obtained from a set of 25 nuclear intronic loci. Thus, the system represents a case of a very early phase of species divergence that requires new molecular approaches for its description. We have therefore generated RNAseq expression profiles using barcoded massively parallel pyrosequencing of brain mRNA from six individuals of the carrion crow and five individuals from a hybrid zone with the hooded crow. We obtained 856 675 reads from two runs, with average read length of 270 nt and coverage of 8.44. Reads were assembled de novo into 19 552 contigs, 70% of which could be assigned to annotated genes in chicken and zebra finch. This resulted in a total of 7637 orthologous genes and a core set of 1301 genes that could be compared across all individuals. We find a clear clustering of expression profiles for the pure carrion crow animals and disperse profiles for the animals from the hybrid zone. These results suggest that gene expression differences may indeed be a sensitive indicator of initial species divergence.}, }
@article {pmid22114388, year = {2010}, author = {Dua, V and Gupta, S and Singh, C}, title = {Evaluation of the nasolabial angle in the Indian population.}, journal = {Contemporary clinical dentistry}, volume = {1}, number = {2}, pages = {79-82}, pmid = {22114388}, issn = {0976-2361}, abstract = {Nasolabial angle has become the angle depicting the esthetics so has attained the prime importance in the treatment planning. Dr Jay P. Fitzgerland and Dr. Ram S. Nanda. In 1992 gave norms for Caucasian population. A radiographic cephalometric study was undertaken with 45 subjects of Indian origin to evaluate and compare with their result. The method of evaluation was according to the criteria given by Dr. Jay P Fitzergerald in AJODO 1992; 102:328-34. Significant decrease in nasolabial angle values was found in case of Indian population as compared to white adults.}, }
@article {pmid20349132, year = {2010}, author = {Włostowski, T and Dmowski, K and Bonda-Ostaszewska, E}, title = {Cadmium accumulation, metallothionein and glutathione levels, and histopathological changes in the kidneys and liver of magpie (Pica pica) from a zinc smelter area.}, journal = {Ecotoxicology (London, England)}, volume = {19}, number = {6}, pages = {1066-1073}, pmid = {20349132}, issn = {1573-3017}, mesh = {Animals ; Apoptosis/drug effects ; Cadmium/*metabolism/toxicity ; Environmental Pollutants/*metabolism/toxicity ; Glutathione/*metabolism ; Kidney/*drug effects/pathology ; Liver/*drug effects/pathology ; Metallothionein/*metabolism ; Metallurgy ; Passeriformes/anatomy &amp; histology/*metabolism ; Zinc ; }, abstract = {The objective of this study was to examine a relationship between cadmium (Cd) accumulation and histopathological changes in the kidneys and liver of magpies (Pica pica) from a zinc smelter area. The concentrations of metallothionein (MT) and glutathione (GSH) that are linked to a protective effect against Cd toxicity were also determined. There was a positive correlation between the concentration of Cd (2.2-17.9 microg/g) and histopathological changes (interstitial inflammation and tubular cell degeneration) in the kidneys (R (s) = 0.87, P = 0.0000). The renal Cd also positively correlated with apoptosis (R (s) = 0.72, P = 0.0005) but the metal did not affect lipid peroxidation. Notably, the average concentration of Cd in the kidneys exceeded MT capacity by about 7 microg/g which is thought to produce renal injury. Importantly, GSH level in the kidneys of magpies from the polluted area dropped to 38% of that observed in the reference birds, probably potentiating Cd toxicity. On the contrary, the liver accumulation of Cd was relatively small (0.88-3.38 microg/g), the hepatic MT capacity exceeded the total concentration of Cd and no association between the hepatic Cd and histopathology was found despite the fact that GSH level was only half that observed in the reference birds. The data suggest that Cd intoxication may be responsible for histopathological changes occurring in the kidneys of free-ranging magpies and that the pathology may be associated with inappropriate amount of renal MT and GSH.}, }
@article {pmid20345780, year = {2010}, author = {De Marco, MC and Sani, G and Manfredi, G and Pacchiarotti, I and Savoja, V and Balbi, A and Mazzarini, L and Borriello, A and Kotzalidis, GD and Tatarelli, R and Girardi, P and Ferracuti, S}, title = {Assessment of the capacity to express informed consent for organ donation in patients with schizophrenia.}, journal = {Journal of forensic sciences}, volume = {55}, number = {3}, pages = {669-676}, doi = {10.1111/j.1556-4029.2010.01364.x}, pmid = {20345780}, issn = {1556-4029}, mesh = {Adult ; Case-Control Studies ; Female ; Humans ; *Informed Consent ; Male ; *Mental Competency ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Psychotic Disorders/*psychology ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; *Tissue and Organ Procurement ; }, abstract = {In Italy, the "silent-consent" principle of donor's willingness regulates organ donation for postmortem transplantation, but civil incompetence excludes it. We investigated decisional capacity for organ donation for transplantation of 30 controls and 30 nonincompetent patients with schizophrenia as related to clinical symptoms, cognition, and functioning. Assessments were carried out through the Competence for Donation Assessment Scale (CDAS), Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms (SAPS), Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms, Life Skills Profile (LSP), Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM), Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, Rey RI, Rey RD, and Visual Search. Patients and controls differed on the CDAS Understanding and Choice Expression areas. Patients showed significant inverse bivariate correlations between CDAS Understanding and scores on total BPRS, LSP self-care scale, and RCPM cognitive test. Our results show that decisional capacity for participating in research does not predict decisional capacity for postmortem organ donation in patients with schizophrenic or schizoaffective psychosis; hence, before judging consent for donation, patients must be provided with enhanced information to better understand this delicate issue.}, }
@article {pmid20337830, year = {2010}, author = {Ascher, B and Talarico, S and Cassuto, D and Escobar, S and Hexsel, D and Jaén, P and Monheit, GD and Rzany, B and Viel, M}, title = {International consensus recommendations on the aesthetic usage of botulinum toxin type A (Speywood Unit)--Part I: Upper facial wrinkles.}, journal = {Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV}, volume = {24}, number = {11}, pages = {1278-1284}, doi = {10.1111/j.1468-3083.2010.03631.x}, pmid = {20337830}, issn = {1468-3083}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Cosmetic Techniques/*standards ; *Forehead ; Humans ; International Cooperation ; Neurotoxins/therapeutic use ; *Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Azzalure (Galderma SA) is a newly approved European botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT-A). It is derived from Dysport (Ipsen Pharma), which has a long history of usages in various applications. Azzalure and Dysport are collectively referred to as BoNT-A (Speywood Unit) and are different from other BoNT-A preparations.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To provide consensus recommendations on the treatment of upper face wrinkles with BoNT-A (Speywood Unit).<br><br>METHODS: The members of the International Board on Botulinum toxin Azzalure (IBBA) convened to develop consensus on the treatment of upper facial wrinkles based on their own extensive experience.<br><br>RESULTS: The consensus recommendations address the general issues regarding treatment and provide specific guidelines on the anatomy, injection points, dose, injection technique and safety precautions concerning each common upper face indication. The recommended final concentration of BoNT-A (Speywood Unit) is 200 s.U/mL (10 s.U/0.05 mL) after reconstitution. For glabellar lines, the members recommend a total of five injection points with 10 s.U/point. For forehead wrinkles, the members recommend four to six injections into the frontalis with 5-10 s.U/point. For crow's feet, the members recommend three injections per side with 5-10 s.U/point at the lateral part of the orbicularis oculi. For lateral eyebrow lift, the members recommend one point at each eyebrow tail and an additional one in each side of the frontalis with 5-10 s.U/point.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This guideline provides a framework for physicians who wish to perform safe and efficacious injection of BoNT-A (Speywood Unit).}, }
@article {pmid20333438, year = {2010}, author = {Fashing, PJ and Nguyen, N and Fashing, NJ}, title = {Behavior of geladas and other endemic wildlife during a desert locust outbreak at Guassa, Ethiopia: ecological and conservation implications.}, journal = {Primates; journal of primatology}, volume = {51}, number = {3}, pages = {193-197}, pmid = {20333438}, issn = {1610-7365}, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Grasshoppers/*physiology ; Population Dynamics ; Theropithecus/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Desert locust (Schistocerca gregaria) outbreaks have occurred repeatedly throughout recorded history in the Horn of Africa region, devastating crops and contributing to famines. In June 2009, a desert locust swarm invaded the Guassa Plateau, Ethiopia, a large and unusually intact Afroalpine tall-grass ecosystem, home to important populations of geladas (Theropithecus gelada), Ethiopian wolves (Canis simensis), thick-billed ravens (Corvus crassirostris), and other Ethiopian or Horn of Africa endemics. During the outbreak and its aftermath, we observed many animals, including geladas, ravens, and a wolf, feeding on locusts in large quantities. These observations suggest surprising flexibility in the normally highly specialized diets of geladas and wolves, including the potential for temporary but intensive insectivory during locust outbreaks. To our knowledge, Guassa is the highest elevation site (3,200-3,600 m) at which desert locusts, which require temperatures >20 degrees C for sustained flight, have been reported. Continued monitoring will be necessary to determine whether the June 2009 outbreak was an isolated incident or part of an emerging pattern in the Ethiopian Highlands linked to global warming. The intensive consumption of desert locusts by geladas, wolves, and ravens during the outbreak at Guassa raises concerns about pesticide-based locust control strategies and potential unintended adverse effects on endemic and endangered wildlife.}, }
@article {pmid20224241, year = {2010}, author = {Lee, E and Lee, H and Kimura, J and Sugita, S}, title = {Feather microstructure of the black-billed magpie (Pica pica sericea) and jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {72}, number = {8}, pages = {1047-1050}, doi = {10.1292/jvms.09-0482}, pmid = {20224241}, issn = {0916-7250}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Color ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Ecosystem ; Feathers/*ultrastructure ; Humans ; }, abstract = {The jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) distribution stretches from eastern Eurasia continent to southeastern Asia. The distribution of the black-billed magpie (Pica pica sericea) stretches from Korea and China to the Kyushu area in Japan. They are both in the Family, Corvidae, and have iridescent feather colors, but the iridescent feather color of the black-billed magpie is more remarkable than that of the jungle crow. We observed the feather microstructure of these birds using electron microscope. On the barbules surface, the barbules twist and prong between the jungle crow and black-billed magpie were not similar. In the barbules cross section, the black-billed magpie showed a complex structure of melanin granules, the jungle crow showed a simple structure of melanin granules.}, }
@article {pmid20224095, year = {2010}, author = {Miller, AD and Townsend, AK and McGowan, KJ and Clark, AB and Glaser, AL and Patrican, LA and Dobson, E and Buckles, EL}, title = {Non-West Nile virus-associated mortality in a population of American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos): a gross and histopathologic study.}, journal = {Journal of veterinary diagnostic investigation : official publication of the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians, Inc}, volume = {22}, number = {2}, pages = {289-295}, doi = {10.1177/104063871002200223}, pmid = {20224095}, issn = {1040-6387}, mesh = {Abscess/mortality/pathology/veterinary ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*mortality/pathology ; *Crows ; Filariasis/mortality/pathology/veterinary ; Intestine, Small/pathology ; Liver Diseases/mortality/pathology/veterinary ; Pneumonia/mortality/pathology/veterinary ; Poxviridae Infections/mortality/pathology/veterinary ; Ulcer/mortality/pathology/veterinary ; West Nile virus ; Wounds and Injuries/mortality/pathology/veterinary ; }, abstract = {The American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) is a common urban and rural inhabitant of the Northeast and Midwest United States that is commonly infected with West Nile virus (WNV). The current study was initiated to determine non-WNV-associated causes of mortality in the American crow. All animals (40/40) tested negative for WNV infection via polymerase chain reaction and had no evidence of infection based on immunohistochemistry. Common gross necropsy findings included external trauma (6/40), hepatosplenomegaly (6/40), poxviral dermatitis (5/40), and pneumonia (3/40). Common histologic findings included endoparasitism (32/40), multifocal hepatic and splenic necrosis (7/40), pigment accumulation in the spleen (5/40), and disseminated bacterial infection (3/40). The most significant and debilitating diseases included fungal pneumonia and poxvirus-associated lesions. The present report increases the knowledge of diseases present in the American crow population.}, }
@article {pmid20223434, year = {2010}, author = {Zoghbi, WA and Narula, J}, title = {Is mechanical dispersion a raven of ventricular arrhythmias?.}, journal = {JACC. Cardiovascular imaging}, volume = {3}, number = {3}, pages = {330-331}, doi = {10.1016/j.jcmg.2010.01.003}, pmid = {20223434}, issn = {1876-7591}, mesh = {Arrhythmias, Cardiac/diagnostic imaging/etiology/physiopathology/*therapy ; Death, Sudden, Cardiac/etiology/*prevention &amp; control ; *Defibrillators, Implantable ; Electric Countershock/*instrumentation ; Humans ; Myocardial Infarction/*complications/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology ; Patient Selection ; Risk Assessment ; Risk Factors ; Ultrasonography ; }, }
@article {pmid20219906, year = {2010}, author = {Okumura, Y and Takahashi, E and Yano, M and Ohuchi, M and Daidoji, T and Nakaya, T and Böttcher, E and Garten, W and Klenk, HD and Kido, H}, title = {Novel type II transmembrane serine proteases, MSPL and TMPRSS13, Proteolytically activate membrane fusion activity of the hemagglutinin of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses and induce their multicycle replication.}, journal = {Journal of virology}, volume = {84}, number = {10}, pages = {5089-5096}, pmid = {20219906}, issn = {1098-5514}, mesh = {Cell Line ; Hemagglutinins, Viral/*metabolism ; *Host-Pathogen Interactions ; Humans ; Influenza A virus/pathogenicity/*physiology ; Membrane Proteins/*metabolism ; Serine Endopeptidases/*metabolism ; *Virus Internalization ; *Virus Replication ; }, abstract = {Host cellular proteases induce influenza virus entry into cells by cleaving the viral surface envelope glycoprotein hemagglutinin (HA). However, details on the cellular proteases involved in this event are not fully available. We report here that ubiquitous type II transmembrane serine proteases, MSPL and its splice variant TMPRSS13, are novel candidates for proteases processing HA proteins of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses, apart from the previously identified furin and proprotein convertases 5 and 6. HAs from all HPAI virus H5 and H7 strains have one of two cleavage site motifs, the R-X-K/R-R motif with R at position P4 and the K-K/R-K/T-R motif with K at position P4. In studies of synthetic 14-residue HPAI virus HA peptides with these cleavage site motifs, furin preferentially cleaved only HA peptides with the R-K-K-R motif in the presence of calcium and not peptides with the other motif, whereas MSPL and TMPRSS13 cleaved both types of HA peptides (those with the R/K-K-K-R motif) efficiently in the absence of calcium. Full-length recombinant HPAI virus HA with the K-K-K-R cleavage motif exhibited poor susceptibility to cleavage in the absence of MSPL or TMPRSS13 and the presence of furin in infected cells, but it was converted to mature HA subunits in transfected cells expressing MSPL or TMPRSS13, with membrane-fused giant-cell formation. This conversion and membrane fusion were suppressed by inhibitors of MSPL and TMPRSS13. Furthermore, infection with and multiplication of genetically modified live HPAI virus A/Crow/Kyoto/53/2004 (H5N1) with the K-K-K-R cleavage site motif were detected only in MSPL- and TMPRSS13-expressing cells.}, }
@article {pmid20215728, year = {2010}, author = {Mehlhorn, J and Hunt, GR and Gray, RD and Rehkämper, G and Güntürkün, O}, title = {Tool-making New Caledonian crows have large associative brain areas.}, journal = {Brain, behavior and evolution}, volume = {75}, number = {1}, pages = {63-70}, doi = {10.1159/000295151}, pmid = {20215728}, issn = {1421-9743}, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological/*physiology ; Animals ; Association Learning/physiology ; Biological Evolution ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Exploratory Behavior/physiology ; Intelligence/physiology ; Neural Pathways/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Phylogeny ; Species Specificity ; Telencephalon/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Animals with a high rate of innovative and associative-based behavior usually have large brains. New Caledonian (NC) crows stand out due to their tool manufacture, their generalized problem-solving abilities and an extremely high degree of encephalization. It is generally assumed that this increased brain size is due to the ability to process, associate and memorize diverse stimuli, thereby enhancing the propensity to invent new and complex behaviors in adaptive ways. However, this premise lacks firm empirical support since encephalization could also result from an increase of only perceptual and/or motor areas. Here, we compared the brain structures of NC crows with those of carrion crows, jays and sparrows. The brains of NC crows were characterized by a relatively large mesopallium, striatopallidal complex, septum and tegmentum. These structures mostly deal with association and motor-learning. This supports the hypothesis that the evolution of innovative or complex behavior requires a brain composition that increases the ability to associate and memorize diverse stimuli in order to execute complex motor output. Since apes show a similar correlation of cerebral growth and cognitive abilities, the evolution of advanced cognitive skills appears to have evolved independently in birds and mammals but with a similar neural orchestration.}, }
@article {pmid20211004, year = {2010}, author = {Li, MH and Merilä, J}, title = {Sex-specific population structure, natural selection, and linkage disequilibrium in a wild bird population as revealed by genome-wide microsatellite analyses.}, journal = {BMC evolutionary biology}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {66}, pmid = {20211004}, issn = {1471-2148}, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Genetics, Population ; Genome-Wide Association Study ; Linkage Disequilibrium ; Male ; Microsatellite Repeats ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Selection, Genetic ; Sex Characteristics ; Sex Chromosomes ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Sexual dimorphism in ecologically important traits is widespread, yet the differences in the genomic architecture between the two sexes are largely unexplored. We employed a genome-wide multilocus approach to examine the sexual differences in population subdivision, natural selection and linkage disequilibrium (LD) in a wild Siberian jay (Perisoreus infaustus) population, using genotypes at a total of 107 autosomal and Z-chromosomal microsatellites.<br><br>RESULTS: Mean observed heterozygosity was significantly higher in females (HO = 0.567) than in males (HO = 0.532), and autosomal markers (HO = 0.561) were more variable than Z-chromosomal markers (HO = 0.512). Genetic differentiation (FST = 0.002, P < 0.05) between the two sexes was low but significant and males were on average significantly more genetically related to each other than females. Genomescan analyses revealed that 3 out of 101 (3%) autosomal loci were under directional selection, while 4 out of 6 (67%) Z-chromosomal markers were indicated to be under balancing selection. This suggests a significantly greater but contrasting selection force on the Z-chromosome in comparison to autosomes, which is consistent with an overall significantly (P < 0.05) lower FSTvalue for Z-chromosomal (-0.014, 95% CI: -0.025 - -0.011) than for the autosomal loci (0.003, 95% CI: 0.001 - 0.004). Analysis of syntenic marker pairs revealed high levels of LD in both sexes but significantly (P < 0.05) lower levels of LD in the females both on autosomes and Z-chromosome, probably due to the higher rate of dispersal and the higher recombination rates on autosomes, as well as the pseudoautosomal markers. In both sexes LD decayed rapidly with genetic distance in a similar fashion on autosomes, while a more rapid decay of LD in Z-chromosome was detected in females than in males.<br><br>CONCLUSION: We conclude that there are many clear differences in genomic architecture between the sexes studied here which can be at least partly understood in the light of higher dispersal rate of females as compared to males and the unusual structure of the Z-chromosome of the species.}, }
@article {pmid20210831, year = {2010}, author = {Gienapp, P and Merilä, J}, title = {Genetic and environmental effects on a condition-dependent trait: feather growth in Siberian jays.}, journal = {Journal of evolutionary biology}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {715-723}, doi = {10.1111/j.1420-9101.2010.01949.x}, pmid = {20210831}, issn = {1420-9101}, mesh = {Aging/physiology ; Animals ; Body Weight ; Environment ; Feathers/*growth &amp; development ; Female ; Male ; Reproduction ; Sex Characteristics ; Songbirds/*genetics/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Condition, defined as the amount of 'internal resources' an individual can freely allocate, is often assumed to be environmentally determined and to reflect an individual's health and nutritional status. However, an additive genetic component of condition is possible if it 'captures' the genetic variance of many underlying traits as many fitness-related traits appear to do. Yet, the heritability of condition can be low if selection has eroded much of its additive genetic variance, or if the environmental influences are strong. Here, we tested whether feather growth rate - presumably a condition-dependent trait - has a heritable component, and whether variation in feather growth rate is related to variation in fitness. To this end, we utilized data from a long-term population study of Siberian jays (Perisoreus infaustus), and found that feather growth rate, measured as the width of feather growth bars (GB), differed between age-classes and sexes, but was only weakly related to variation in fitness as measured by annual and life-time reproductive success. As revealed by animal model analyses, GB width was significantly heritable (h(2) = 0.10 +/- 0.05), showing that this measure of condition is not solely environmentally determined, but reflects at least partly inherited genetic differences among individuals. Consequently, variation in feather growth rates as assessed with ptilochronological methods can provide information about heritable genetic differences in condition.}, }
@article {pmid20206985, year = {2010}, author = {Baldo, JV and Bunge, SA and Wilson, SM and Dronkers, NF}, title = {Is relational reasoning dependent on language? A voxel-based lesion symptom mapping study.}, journal = {Brain and language}, volume = {113}, number = {2}, pages = {59-64}, pmid = {20206985}, issn = {1090-2155}, support = {5 P01 NS040813/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; M01 RR019975-010016/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; P01 NS040813/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DC000216-22/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; 5 R01 DC00216/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DC000216/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aphasia/etiology/physiopathology ; Brain/*physiology ; *Brain Mapping ; Female ; Functional Laterality ; Humans ; *Language ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Stroke/complications/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {Previous studies with brain-injured patients have suggested that language abilities are necessary for complex problem-solving, even when tasks are non-verbal. In the current study, we tested this notion by analyzing behavioral and neuroimaging data from a large group of left-hemisphere stroke patients (n=107) suffering from a range of language impairment from none to severe. Patients were tested on the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM), a non-verbal test of reasoning that requires participants to complete a visual pattern or sequence with one of six possible choices. For some items, the solution could be determined by visual pattern-matching, but other items required more complex, relational reasoning. As predicted, performance on the relational-reasoning items was disproportionately affected in language-impaired patients with aphasia, relative to non-aphasic, left-hemisphere patients. A voxel-based lesion symptom mapping (VLSM) procedure was used to relate patients' RCPM performance with areas of damage in the brain. Results showed that deficits on the relational reasoning problems were associated with lesions in the left middle and superior temporal gyri, regions essential for language processing, as well as in the left inferior parietal lobule. In contrast, the visual pattern-matching condition was associated with lesions in posterior portions of the left hemisphere that subserve visual processing, namely, occipital and inferotemporal cortex. These findings provide compelling support for the idea that language is critical for higher-level reasoning and problem-solving.}, }
@article {pmid20202943, year = {2010}, author = {Collop, NA and Welch, SJ and Berry, RB and Irwin, RS}, title = {A. Jay Block: the legend and his legacy.}, journal = {Chest}, volume = {137}, number = {3}, pages = {507-509}, doi = {10.1378/chest.10-0020}, pmid = {20202943}, issn = {1931-3543}, mesh = {Biomedical Research/*history ; Education, Medical/*history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Pulmonary Medicine/education/*history ; Societies, Medical/*history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid20195481, year = {2010}, author = {Derégnaucourt, S}, title = {Interspecific hybridization as a tool to understand vocal divergence: the example of crowing in quail (Genus Coturnix).}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {5}, number = {2}, pages = {e9451}, pmid = {20195481}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Breeding/*methods ; Coturnix/genetics ; Crows/genetics ; Female ; Genetic Speciation ; Genetic Variation/*genetics ; Hybridization, Genetic/*genetics ; Male ; Seasons ; Sound Spectrography ; Species Specificity ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Understanding the mechanisms that lead organisms to be separated into distinct species remains a challenge in evolutionary biology. Interspecific hybridization, which results from incomplete reproductive isolation, is a useful tool to investigate such mechanisms. In birds, interspecific hybridization is relatively frequent, despite the fact that closed species exhibit morphological and behavioural differences. Evolution of behaviour is difficult to investigate on a large timescale since it does not 'fossilize'. Here I propose that calls of hybrid non-songbirds that develop without the influence of learning may help in understanding the gradual process that leads to vocal divergence during speciation. I recorded crows produced by the European quail (Coturnix c. coturnix), the domestic Japanese quail (Coturnix c. japonica) and their hybrids (F1, F2 and backcrosses). Most crowing patterns were intermediate to those of the parental species; some were similar to one or the other parental species, or not present in either parental species. I also observed vocal changes in hybrid crows during the breeding season and from one year to the other. This vocal variability resembles those observed during the ontogeny of the crow in quails. It is likely that similar mechanisms involved in vocal changes during ontogeny might have driven vocal divergence in the species of Palearctic quails. I suggest that hybrid crows might have resembled those produced by intermediary forms of quails during speciation.}, }
@article {pmid20187352, year = {2009}, author = {Jemeleddine, E and Bouden, A and Halayem, S and Othman, S and Tabbane, K and Halayem, M}, title = {[Memory impairments during child and adolescent depression].}, journal = {La Tunisie medicale}, volume = {87}, number = {10}, pages = {656-659}, pmid = {20187352}, issn = {0041-4131}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Depression/*physiopathology ; Humans ; Memory Disorders/*physiopathology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {AIM: This study aimed to evaluate basic performances on verbal memory in treatment-naïve children and adolescents with depression and in healthy control subjects.<br><br>METHODS: 34 children and adolescents aged 6-16 years, suffering from a first major depressive disorder (DSM IV) and 34 controls matched on sex, age and cognitive ability were evaluated. Psychiatric diagnosis was assessed with the K-SADS-PL. The Child Depression Rating Scale (CDRS) was used to assess the severity of depression. Progressive matrices of Raven were used to evaluate intelligence. Two different cognitive tasks were administered to assess semantic and working memory: digit span test, and semantic and phonemic verbal fluency.<br><br>RESULTS: A significant effect of diagnosis was found for digit span: patients showed lower performance on forward (p=0,015) and backward (p=0,002) digits. No difference was found between patients and controls on verbal fluency. The young age of the sample and the first depressive episode criteria may explain the absence of severe impairment of this type of semantic and working memory.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These results support the hypothesis that memory deficits in depressive disorders are partly the result of poor encoding caused by a deficit in attention.}, }
@article {pmid20187351, year = {2009}, author = {Halayem, S and Bouden, A and Amado, I and Krebs, MO and Tabbane, K and Halayem, M}, title = {[Adaptation of a soft-signs scale to children with autism spectrum disorders].}, journal = {La Tunisie medicale}, volume = {87}, number = {10}, pages = {651-655}, pmid = {20187351}, issn = {0041-4131}, mesh = {Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Child Development Disorders, Pervasive/*physiopathology ; Developmental Disabilities/*physiopathology ; Humans ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Neurological soft signs (NSS) are endophenotypic markers of schizophrenia, and their high prevalence in pervasive developmental disorders (PDD) support the existence of the spectrum of psychoses. These NSS were evaluated by standardized scales which were not adapted to children with PDD.<br><br>AIMS: This study aimed to propose an adaptation for children of a scale of NSS already used in adults.<br><br>METHODS: 21 children with PDD (11 with autistic disorder, 10 with PDD not otherwise specified) aged 6-12 years and 21 controls matched on age, sex, and cognitive level were included. Evaluating tools were NSS scale of Krebs et al. adapted after a pilot-study with the accordance of its author; the Progressive Matrices of Raven for intellectual level, and ADI-R to confirm diagnosis.<br><br>RESULTS: Patients were significantly more impaired on total score (p=0,001), motor coordination (p=0,008), motor integration (p=0,000), and sensory integration (p=0,001). There were no difference between patients and controls on abnormal movements and quality of lateralization.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This adaptation of Krebs et al. scale seems to be a good tool for evaluating NSS in children, especially in those with PDD. A further validation study, including a larger sample is necessary.}, }
@article {pmid20179759, year = {2010}, author = {Taylor, AH and Medina, FS and Holzhaider, JC and Hearne, LJ and Hunt, GR and Gray, RD}, title = {An investigation into the cognition behind spontaneous string pulling in New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {5}, number = {2}, pages = {e9345}, pmid = {20179759}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Animals ; Choice Behavior/physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Conditioning, Operant/physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; New Caledonia ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The ability of some bird species to pull up meat hung on a string is a famous example of spontaneous animal problem solving. The "insight" hypothesis claims that this complex behaviour is based on cognitive abilities such as mental scenario building and imagination. An operant conditioning account, in contrast, would claim that this spontaneity is due to each action in string pulling being reinforced by the meat moving closer and remaining closer to the bird on the perch. We presented experienced and naïve New Caledonian crows with a novel, visually restricted string-pulling problem that reduced the quality of visual feedback during string pulling. Experienced crows solved this problem with reduced efficiency and increased errors compared to their performance in standard string pulling. Naïve crows either failed or solved the problem by trial and error learning. However, when visual feedback was available via a mirror mounted next to the apparatus, two naïve crows were able to perform at the same level as the experienced group. Our results raise the possibility that spontaneous string pulling in New Caledonian crows may not be based on insight but on operant conditioning mediated by a perceptual-motor feedback cycle.}, }
@article {pmid20174519, year = {2010}, author = {Begum, S and Rao, KN and Sudarshan, CY}, title = {Validity of screening tools for emotional problems in school children.}, journal = {Indian journal of psychiatry}, volume = {52}, number = {1}, pages = {57-59}, pmid = {20174519}, issn = {1998-3794}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Emotional problems in school children may result in low level of scholastic performance. The recognition of these disorders needs effective screening tools. The choice lies between self assessment tools or observation based tools. Majority of studies use screening tools based on parental or teachers' observation.<br><br>AIM: This study was designed to compare a self-assessment based screening tool (general health questionnaire; GHQ) with a parental observation based screening tool (CPMS-Childhood Psychopathology Measurement Schedule).<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two hundred and eighteen school children were selected through multistage random sampling. The study was conducted in three stages. In the first stage, all the students were administered six-item version of GHQ to screen for emotional problems. Raven's Progressive Matrices was administered to evaluate IQ. In the second stage, parents assessed their child's behavior using CPMS. In the third stage, all students were subjected for detailed clinical work-up.<br><br>STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Criterion validity of the tools used and their comparison.<br><br>RESULT: GHQ had high sensitivity and specificity compared to CPMS in relation to clinical interview.<br><br>CONCLUSION: It is found that GHQ is a better screening tool than CPMS in children aged between 13 and 14 years.}, }
@article {pmid20174004, year = {2010}, author = {Scheuer, J and Shtaif, M}, title = {Band splitting and modal dispersion induced by symmetry braking in coupled-resonator slowlight waveguide structures.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {18}, number = {2}, pages = {1762-1776}, doi = {10.1364/OE.18.001762}, pmid = {20174004}, issn = {1094-4087}, mesh = {Computer Simulation ; Computer-Aided Design ; Equipment Design ; Equipment Failure Analysis ; Light ; *Models, Theoretical ; *Optical Devices ; Refractometry/*instrumentation ; Scattering, Radiation ; *Transducers ; }, abstract = {We study the dispersion relations in slow-light waveguide structures consisting of coupled microdisk resonators. A group theoretical analysis of the symmetry properties of the propagating modes reveals a fundamental phenomenon: The degeneracy of the CW and CCW rotating modes is removed, giving rise to two distinct transmission bands. This effect induces symmetry-based dispersion which may limit the usable bandwidth of such structures. The properties of this band splitting and its impact on CROW performance for optical communications are studied in detail.}, }
@article {pmid20171286, year = {2010}, author = {Takeuchi, H and Taki, Y and Sassa, Y and Hashizume, H and Sekiguchi, A and Fukushima, A and Kawashima, R}, title = {White matter structures associated with creativity: evidence from diffusion tensor imaging.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {51}, number = {1}, pages = {11-18}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroimage.2010.02.035}, pmid = {20171286}, issn = {1095-9572}, mesh = {Anisotropy ; Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology ; *Creativity ; Diffusion Tensor Imaging ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Nerve Fibers, Myelinated ; Neural Pathways/anatomy &amp; histology ; Psychological Tests ; Psychometrics ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Creativity has been essential to the development of human civilization and plays a crucial role in cultural life. However, despite literature that has proposed the importance of structural connectivity in the brain for creativity, the relationship between regional white matter integrity and creativity has never been directly investigated. In this study, we used diffusion tensor imaging and a behavioral creativity test of divergent thinking to investigate the relationship between creativity and structural connectivity. We examined associations between creativity and fractional anisotropy across the brain in healthy young adult (mean age, 21.7 years old; [SD]=1.44) men (n=42) and women (n=13). After controlling for age, sex, and score on Raven's advanced progressive matrices, a test for psychometric measures of intelligence, significant positive relationships between fractional anisotropy and individual creativity as measured by the divergent thinking test were observed in the white matter in or adjacent to the bilateral prefrontal cortices, the body of the corpus callosum, the bilateral basal ganglia, the bilateral temporo-parietal junction and the right inferior parietal lobule. As a whole, these findings indicate that integrated white matter tracts underlie creativity. These pathways involve the association cortices and the corpus callosum, which connect information in distant brain regions and underlie diverse cognitive functions that support creativity. Thus, our results are congruent with the ideas that creativity is associated with the integration of conceptually distant ideas held in different brain domains and architectures and that creativity is supported by diverse high-level cognitive functions, particularly those of the frontal lobe.}, }
@article {pmid20166940, year = {2010}, author = {Moalic, JM and Le Strat, Y and Lepagnol-Bestel, AM and Ramoz, N and Loe-Mie, Y and Maussion, G and Gorwood, P and Simonneau, M}, title = {Primate-accelerated evolutionary genes: novel routes to drug discovery in psychiatric disorders.}, journal = {Current medicinal chemistry}, volume = {17}, number = {13}, pages = {1300-1316}, doi = {10.2174/092986710790936338}, pmid = {20166940}, issn = {1875-533X}, mesh = {Aldehyde Dehydrogenase/genetics/metabolism ; Aldehyde Dehydrogenase, Mitochondrial ; Animals ; Antipsychotic Agents/therapeutic use ; Drug Discovery ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Humans ; Neurophysins/genetics/metabolism ; Primates ; Protein Precursors/genetics/metabolism ; Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/genetics/metabolism ; Psychotic Disorders/*drug therapy/genetics ; RNA Interference ; Receptors, Dopamine D4/genetics/metabolism ; Receptors, GABA-A/genetics/metabolism ; Vasopressins/genetics/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Novel molecular genetic approaches, at genome-scale in different species allowed characterizing genes that have undergone recent selection. The interest in this research field is not limited to the natural curiosity about our evolutionary past, but it is also to identify novel susceptibility genes for neuropsychiatic disorders by pointing specific human traits, such as behavioral and cognitive abilities. Hypotheses have been proposed to relate specific psychiatric disorders to the origin of modern humans, as evidenced by the theory of Crow about schizophrenia. In the present review, we will focus on genes that underwent positive selection in humans or displayed a human specific evolutionary pattern and which were reported as associated with psychiatric disorders. This will include the (1) DRD4 gene associated with attentiondeficit/ hyperactivity disorder, located in a locus that underwent a positive selection; the (2) GABRB2 gene, a gene associated with schizophrenia and recently reported as the target of a positive selection; (3) MARK1, a candidate gene for autism that was reported as displaying a signature of adaptative evolution in the human lineage, and (4) the ADH and ALDH2 genes which are associated with alcoholism, and for which evidence of positive selection was identified in the human lineage since the divergence between humans and chimpanzees. Identification of novel candidate genes based on recent evolution selection, coupled to genome-wide strategies designed to detect rare structural variants, could lead to a better knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of neurodevelopmental disorders and might therefore help to develop new medical chemistry.}, }
@article {pmid20164081, year = {2010}, author = {Wilcoxen, TE and Boughton, RK and Schoech, SJ}, title = {Selection on innate immunity and body condition in Florida scrub-jays throughout an epidemic.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {6}, number = {4}, pages = {552-554}, pmid = {20164081}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology ; Body Constitution/*physiology ; Corticosterone/blood ; Disease Outbreaks/statistics &amp; numerical data/*veterinary ; Escherichia coli/immunology ; Florida/epidemiology ; Immunity, Innate/*immunology ; Immunocompetence/*immunology ; Male ; *Passeriformes ; Radioimmunoassay ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {Opportunities to investigate selection in free-living species during a naturally occurring epidemic are rare; however, we assessed innate immunocompetence in Florida scrub-jays before the population suffered the greatest over-winter mortality in 20 years of study. Propitiously, three months prior to the epidemic, we had sampled a number of male breeders to evaluate a suite of physiological measures that are commonly used to estimate the overall health-state of an individual. There was a significant, positive selection gradient for both Escherichia coli bacterial killing capability and body condition, suggesting that directional selection had occurred upon each of these traits during the disease epidemic.}, }
@article {pmid20163573, year = {2011}, author = {Shirafuji, H and Kanehira, K and Nishiguchi, A and Kamio, T}, title = {Nationwide surveillance of West Nile virus targeting mosquitoes and dead birds from April 2004 through March 2007 in Japan.}, journal = {Zoonoses and public health}, volume = {58}, number = {3}, pages = {153-157}, doi = {10.1111/j.1863-2378.2009.01321.x}, pmid = {20163573}, issn = {1863-2378}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/transmission/*virology ; Birds ; Culicidae/classification/*virology ; *Disease Vectors ; Japan/epidemiology ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Sentinel Surveillance ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*transmission ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {We conducted nationwide West Nile virus (WNV) surveillance targeting mosquitoes and dead birds to reveal whether the virus and its potential vectors are present in Japan. A total of 12 766 mosquitoes and 230 dead birds were collected in April 2004-March 2005 (the 2004-2005 period), 10 755 mosquitoes and 267 dead birds in April 2005-March 2006 (the 2005-2006 period), and 8624 mosquitoes and 245 dead birds in April 2006-March 2007 (the 2006-2007 period). The species of most of the mosquitoes collected over the 3 years were Culex tritaeniorhynchus (47.82%) and Anopheles sinensis (28.49%), and other species included Aedes albopictus (6.75%), the Culex pipiens group (Cx. pipiens pallens and Cx. pipiens molestus: 5.37%), Aedes vexans nipponii (2.54%), Armigeres subalbatus (1.08%), and Aedes japonicus (0.95%). As for the dead birds, most were Passeriformes (456 specimens), which included several crow species, and the other orders included Anseriformes, Columbiformes and Ciconiiformes (78, 66 and 36 specimens, respectively). All the specimens tested negative for WNV RNA by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in the 2004-2005 period and by real-time RT-PCR in the 2005-2006 and the 2006-2007 periods, respectively. Our surveillance provided no evidence for WNV in Japan as of the end of the surveillance period, but on the other hand, it revealed that several species of potential WNV vectors are distributed widely in Japan, which suggests that WNV in principle could be transmitted by the potential vectors if introduced. Thus, it is essential to take continued precautions against WNV introduction.}, }
@article {pmid20156820, year = {2010}, author = {Grodzinski, U and Clayton, NS}, title = {Problems faced by food-caching corvids and the evolution of cognitive solutions.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {365}, number = {1542}, pages = {977-987}, pmid = {20156820}, issn = {1471-2970}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Biological Evolution ; Cognition/physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology/*psychology ; Food ; Memory/physiology ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The scatter hoarding of food, or caching, is a widespread and well-studied behaviour. Recent experiments with caching corvids have provided evidence for episodic-like memory, future planning and possibly mental attribution, all cognitive abilities that were thought to be unique to humans. In addition to the complexity of making flexible, informed decisions about caching and recovering, this behaviour is underpinned by a motivationally controlled compulsion to cache. In this review, we shall first discuss the compulsive side of caching both during ontogeny and in the caching behaviour of adult corvids. We then consider some of the problems that these birds face and review the evidence for the cognitive abilities they use to solve them. Thus, the emergence of episodic-like memory is viewed as a solution for coping with food perishability, while the various cache-protection and pilfering strategies may be sophisticated tools to deprive competitors of information, either by reducing the quality of information they can gather, or invalidating the information they already have. Finally, we shall examine whether such future-oriented behaviour involves future planning and ask why this and other cognitive abilities might have evolved in corvids.}, }
@article {pmid20156817, year = {2010}, author = {Sherry, DF and Hoshooley, JS}, title = {Seasonal hippocampal plasticity in food-storing birds.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {365}, number = {1542}, pages = {933-943}, pmid = {20156817}, issn = {1471-2970}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Birds/anatomy &amp; histology/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Hippocampus/anatomy &amp; histology/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; Neurogenesis/physiology ; Neuronal Plasticity/physiology ; Organ Size ; Photoperiod ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {Both food-storing behaviour and the hippocampus change annually in food-storing birds. Food storing increases substantially in autumn and winter in chickadees and tits, jays and nutcrackers and nuthatches. The total size of the chickadee hippocampus increases in autumn and winter as does the rate of hippocampal neurogenesis. The hippocampus is necessary for accurate cache retrieval in food-storing birds and is much larger in food-storing birds than in non-storing passerines. It therefore seems probable that seasonal change in caching and seasonal change in the hippocampus are causally related. The peak in recruitment of new neurons into the hippocampus occurs before birds have completed food storing and cache retrieval for the year and may therefore be associated with spacing caches, encoding the spatial locations of caches, or creating a neuronal architecture involved in the recollection of cache sites. The factors controlling hippocampal plasticity in food-storing birds are not well understood. Photoperiodic manipulations that produce change in food-storing behaviour have no effect on either hippocampal size or neuronal recruitment. Available evidence suggests that changes in hippocampal size and neurogenesis may be a consequence of the behavioural and cognitive involvement of the hippocampus in storing and retrieving food.}, }
@article {pmid20151985, year = {2010}, author = {Coulon, A and Fitzpatrick, JW and Bowman, R and Lovette, IJ}, title = {Effects of habitat fragmentation on effective dispersal of Florida scrub-jays.}, journal = {Conservation biology : the journal of the Society for Conservation Biology}, volume = {24}, number = {4}, pages = {1080-1088}, doi = {10.1111/j.1523-1739.2009.01438.x}, pmid = {20151985}, issn = {1523-1739}, mesh = {Animals ; *Demography ; *Ecosystem ; Florida ; Gene Flow/genetics ; *Genetics, Population ; Geography ; Linear Models ; Songbirds/genetics/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Studies comparing dispersal in fragmented versus unfragmented landscapes show that habitat fragmentation alters the dispersal behavior of many species. We used two complementary approaches to explore Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) dispersal in relation to landscape fragmentation. First, we compared dispersal distances of color-marked individuals in intensively monitored continuous and fragmented landscapes. Second, we estimated effective dispersal relative to the degree of fragmentation (as inferred from two landscape indexes: proportion of study site covered with Florida Scrub-Jay habitat and mean distance to nearest habitat patch within each study site) by comparing genetic isolation-by-distance regressions among 13 study sites having a range of landscape structures. Among color-banded individuals, dispersal distances were greater in fragmented versus continuous landscapes, a result consistent with other studies. Nevertheless, genetic analyses revealed that effective dispersal decreases as the proportion of habitat in the landscape decreases. These results suggest that although individual Florida Scrub-Jays may disperse farther as fragmentation increases, those that do so are less successful as breeders than those that disperse short distances. Our study highlights the importance of combining observational data with genetic inferences when evaluating the complex biological and life-history implications of dispersal.}, }
@article {pmid20151785, year = {2010}, author = {Lowe, NJ and Shah, A and Lowe, PL and Patnaik, R}, title = {Dosing, efficacy and safety plus the use of computerized photography for botulinum toxins type A for upper facial lines.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {106-111}, doi = {10.3109/14764170903480013}, pmid = {20151785}, issn = {1476-4180}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Drug Administration Schedule ; Facial Muscles/*drug effects ; Female ; Forehead ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/methods ; Injections, Subcutaneous ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Patient Satisfaction ; Rejuvenation ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Several studies confirm that botulinum toxins type A (BTX-A) are effective for reducing facial lines caused by hyperactive muscles. Two different commercial types of BTX-A currently available are BTX-A-1 (Botox) and BTX-A-2 (Dysport). This paper reports further comparison of dosing, efficacy and safety.<br><br>METHODS: Sites treated: glabellar, horizontal forehead lines and crow's feet. Different dilutions and dosages were studied with BTX-A-1 and BTX-A-2. The reduction of facial lines was evaluated by investigators and patients. Computerized photographic numerical assessment was also studied in determining the efficacy of BTX-A for crow's feet lines.<br><br>RESULTS: Study 1: Injecting glabellar lines at doses of BTX-A-1 (30 units) and BTX-A-2 (75 units) (2.5:1 ratio BTX-A2:BTX-A1) showed similar efficacy. Study 2: BTX-A-2 (256 units total) was significantly more effective than BTX-A-1 (64 units total) (i.e. a dose ratio of 4:1) for upper face lines. No differences in the side-effect profiles between the two toxins were observed in either study. Study 3: A computerized photographic numerical assay was an objective assessment of crow's feet severity. Using a dose ratio of BTX-A-2 to BTX-A-1 of 3:1 showed a trend towards BTX-A-2 superiority.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Two different botulinum toxins type A were shown to be effective and safe for hyperfunctional facial lines. The choice of dose, dilution and placement is critical for each individual toxin. Computerized photography gave numerical severity scores of crow's feet severity.}, }
@article {pmid20138444, year = {2010}, author = {Wang, W and Yang, H and Hu, W and Shan, G and Ding, W and Yu, C and Wang, B and Wang, X and Xu, Q}, title = {Clinical study of the necessity of replanning before the 25th fraction during the course of intensity-modulated radiotherapy for patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {77}, number = {2}, pages = {617-621}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijrobp.2009.08.036}, pmid = {20138444}, issn = {1879-355X}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Brain Stem/radiation effects ; Dose Fractionation, Radiation ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging/pathology/*radiotherapy ; Parotid Gland/radiation effects ; Radiography ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated/*methods ; Spinal Cord/radiation effects ; Tumor Burden ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To quantify the target and normal structures on dose distributing variations during intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and to assess the value of replanning for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: Twenty-eight NPC patients treated with IMRT were recruited. The IMRT was delivered in 33 fractions, to 70 to 76Gy, to the gross tumor volume (GTV). Before the 25th fraction of IMRT, a new simulation computed tomography (CT) scan was acquired for all patients. According to the dose constraint criterion in the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) 0225 protocol, the replanning was generated on the new simulation CT. With the Quality Assessment Center of a CORVUS 6.3 treatment planning system, a phantom plan was generated for each patient by applying the beam configurations of the initial plan to the anatomy of the new simulation CT. The dose-volume histograms of the phantom plan were compared with the replanning.<br><br>RESULTS: The percentage of prescription dose delivered to the clinical target volume (CTV1) was significantly increased by 4.91% +/- 10.89%, whereas the maximum dose to the spinal cord, mean dose to the left parotid, and V30 to the right parotid were significantly decreased by 5.00 +/- 9.23Gy, 4.23 +/- 10.03Gy, and 11.47% +/- 18.89% respectively in the replanning, compared with the phantom plan (p < 0.05). Based on the dose constraint criterion in the RTOG0225 protocol, 50% of phantom plans (14/28) were out of limit for the dose to the normal critical structures, whereas no plan was out of limit in replanning (p < 0.001).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Replanning for patients with NPC before the 25th fraction during IMRT helps to ensure adequate dose to the target volumes and safe doses to critical normal structures.}, }
@article {pmid20128785, year = {2010}, author = {Evans, KL and Hatchwell, BJ and Parnell, M and Gaston, KJ}, title = {A conceptual framework for the colonisation of urban areas: the blackbird Turdus merula as a case study.}, journal = {Biological reviews of the Cambridge Philosophical Society}, volume = {85}, number = {3}, pages = {643-667}, doi = {10.1111/j.1469-185X.2010.00121.x}, pmid = {20128785}, issn = {1469-185X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cities ; Demography ; *Ecosystem ; *Models, Biological ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Despite increasing interest in urban ecology the factors limiting the colonisation of towns and cities by species from rural areas are poorly understood. This is largely due to the lack of a detailed conceptual framework for this urbanisation process, and of sufficient case studies. Here, we develop such a framework. This draws upon a wide range of ecological and evolutionary theory and the increasing number of studies of how the markedly divergent conditions in urban and rural areas influence the traits of urban populations and the structure of urban assemblages. We illustrate the importance of this framework by compiling a detailed case study of spatial and temporal variation in the urbanisation of the blackbird Turdus merula. Our framework identifies three separate stages in the urbanisation process: (i) arrival, (ii) adjustment, and (iii) spread. The rate of progress through each stage is influenced by environmental factors, especially human attitudes and socio-economic factors that determine the history of urban development and the quality of urban habitats, and by species' ecological and life-history traits. Some traits can positively influence progression through one stage, but delay progression through another. Rigorous assessment of the factors influencing urbanisation should thus ideally pay attention to the different stages. Urbanisation has some similarities to invasion of exotic species, but the two clearly differ. Invasion concerns geographic range expansion that is external to the species' original geographic range, whilst urbanisation typically relates to filling gaps within a species' original range. This process is exemplified by the blackbird which is now one of the commonest urban bird species throughout its Western Palearctic range. This is in stark contrast to the situation 150 years ago when the species was principally confined to forest. Blackbird urbanisation was first recorded in Germany in 1820, yet some European cities still lack urban blackbirds. This is especially so in the east, where urbanisation has spread more slowly than in the west. The timing of blackbird urbanisation exhibits a marked spatial pattern, with latitude and longitude explaining 76% of the variation. This strong spatial pattern contrasts with the weaker spatial pattern in timing of urbanisation exhibited by the woodpigeon Columba palumbus (with location explaining 39% of the variation), and with the very weak spatial pattern in timing of black-billed magpie Pica pica urbanisation (in which location explains 12% of the variation). Strong spatial patterns in timing of urbanisation are more compatible with the leap-frog urbanisation model, in which urban adapted or imprinted birds colonise other towns and cities, than with the independent urbanisation model, in which urban colonisation events occur independently of each other. Spatial patterns in isolation do not, however, confirm one particular model. Factors relating to the arrival and adjustment stages appear particularly likely to have influenced the timing of blackbird urbanisation. Spatial variation in the occurrence of urban populations and the timing of their establishment creates opportunities to assess the factors regulating urbanisation rates, and how the composition of urban assemblages develops as a result. These are major issues for urban ecology.}, }
@article {pmid20126287, year = {2009}, author = {Townsend, AK and Clark, AB and McGowan, KJ and Lovette, IJ}, title = {Reproductive partitioning and the assumptions of reproductive skew models in the cooperatively breeding American crow.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {77}, number = {2}, pages = {503-512}, pmid = {20126287}, issn = {0003-3472}, support = {R21 AI064305-01/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Understanding the benefits of cooperative breeding for group members of different social and demographic classes requires knowledge of their reproductive partitioning and genetic relatedness. From 2004-2007, we examined parentage as a function of relatedness and social interactions among members of 21 American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) family groups. Paired female breeders monopolized maternity of all offspring in their broods, whereas paired male breeders sired 82.7% of offspring, within-group auxiliary males sired 6.9% of offspring, and extragroup males sired 10.4% of offspring. Although adult females had fewer opportunities for direct reproduction as auxiliaries than males, they appeared to have earlier opportunities for independent breeding. These different opportunities for direct reproduction probably contributed to the male biased adult auxiliary sex ratio. Patterns of reproductive partitioning and conflict among males were most consistent with a synthetic reproductive skew model, in which auxiliaries struggled with breeders for a limited reproductive share, beyond which breeders could evict them. Counter to a frequent assumption of reproductive skew models, female breeders appeared to influence paternity, although their interests might have agreed with the interests of their paired males. Unusual among cooperative breeders, close inbreeding and incest occurred in this population. Incest avoidance between potential breeders did not significantly affect reproductive skew.}, }
@article {pmid20123167, year = {2010}, author = {Burt, RD and Hagan, H and Sabin, K and Thiede, H}, title = {Evaluating respondent-driven sampling in a major metropolitan area: Comparing injection drug users in the 2005 Seattle area national HIV behavioral surveillance system survey with participants in the RAVEN and Kiwi studies.}, journal = {Annals of epidemiology}, volume = {20}, number = {2}, pages = {159-167}, pmid = {20123167}, issn = {1873-2585}, support = {R01 DA008023-07/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DA008023-08/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; 1R01DA08023/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; U62/CCU006260//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Distribution ; Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System ; Data Collection/methods ; Drug Users/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; HIV Seropositivity/*epidemiology/ethnology ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Patient Selection ; Sampling Studies ; Sex Distribution ; Substance Abuse, Intravenous/*epidemiology/ethnology ; Urban Health ; Washington/epidemiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To empirically evaluate respondent-driven sampling (RDS) recruitment methods, which have been proposed as an advantageous means of surveying hidden populations.<br><br>METHODS: The National HIV Behavioral Surveillance system used RDS to recruit 370 injection drug users (IDU) in the Seattle area in 2005 (NHBS-IDU1). We compared the NHBS-IDU1 estimates of participants' area of residence, age, race, sex, and drug most frequently injected to corresponding data from two previous surveys, the RAVEN and Kiwi Studies, and to persons newly diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and reported from 2001 through 2005.<br><br>RESULTS: The NHBS-IDU1 population was estimated to be more likely to reside in downtown Seattle (52%) than participants in the other data sources (22%-25%), be older than 50 years of age (29% vs. 5%-10%), and report multiple races (12% vs. 3%-5%). The NHBS-IDU1 population resembled persons using the downtown needle exchange in age and race distribution. An examination of cross-group recruitment frequencies in NHBS-IDU1 suggested barriers to recruitment across different areas of residence, races, and drugs most frequently injected.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The substantial differences in age and area of residence between NHBS-IDU1 and the other data sources suggest that RDS may not have accessed the full universe of Seattle area injection networks. Further empirical data are needed to guide the evaluation of RDS-generated samples.}, }
@article {pmid20120420, year = {2010}, author = {Ancona, D and Katz, BE}, title = {A prospective study of the improvement in periorbital wrinkles and eyebrow elevation with a novel fractional CO2 laser--the fractional eyelift.}, journal = {Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {16-21}, pmid = {20120420}, issn = {1545-9616}, mesh = {*Cosmetic Techniques ; *Dermatologic Surgical Procedures ; Double-Blind Method ; *Eyebrows ; Female ; Humans ; Intraoperative Complications/epidemiology ; *Low-Level Light Therapy ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Orbit/*surgery ; Pain/epidemiology/etiology ; Prospective Studies ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of a new fractional CO2 laser system for improving periorbital rhytids, tightening skin and elevating the eyebrow.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred subjects with periocular wrinkles, tissue laxity, photoaged skin and moderate dermatochalasis of the face were prospectively treated one to four times in the periorbital area with a fractional CO2 laser device equipped with a scanning handpiece. Improvements in eyelid wrinkles, crow's feet and skin laxity were evaluated photographically by two blinded, independent observers. Eyebrow elevation was measured by the investigators. Subjects also scored satisfaction and tolerability.<br><br>RESULTS: Approximately half of subjects achieved or maintained 26-50% improvement at 12 months. Nearly 40% of subjects maintained 1-2 mm elevation of the brow at six and 12 months after treatment. Subject satisfaction was high and the procedure was well tolerated. Mild-to-moderate erythema and edema persisted for up to three to four days.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Treatment with a fractional CO2 laser device improves periorbital rhytids, tightens skin and elevates the eyebrow with minimal adverse effects.}, }
@article {pmid20113607, year = {2009}, author = {Chen, YH and Chen, H and Liu, YY and Lin, GX and Wei, LX and Chen, DL}, title = {[Function of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder].}, journal = {Zhongguo dang dai er ke za zhi = Chinese journal of contemporary pediatrics}, volume = {11}, number = {12}, pages = {992-995}, pmid = {20113607}, issn = {1008-8830}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adrenocorticotropic Hormone/blood ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*physiopathology ; Child ; Electroencephalography ; Humans ; Hydrocortisone/blood ; Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System/*physiopathology ; Intelligence ; Male ; Pituitary-Adrenal System/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To study the function of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).<br><br>METHODS: One hundred and twenty-eight boys with ADHD at ages of 6 to 14 years were enrolled. The diagnosis and grouping of ADHD were based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV): ADHD-predominantly inattention type (ADHD-I, n=44), ADHD-predominantly hyperactive impulsivetype (ADHD-HI, n=32) and ADHD-combined type (ADHD-C, n=52). Thirty healthy boys served as the control group. Plasma levels of cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) were measured by automatic particle enzyme immunoassay and electrochemiluminescence respectively at 8:00 am. The intelligence level was tested by Raven's standard progressive matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: The children with ADHD had lower IQ score (84.5 + or - 11.3) than the control group (94.6 + or - 12.4) (p<0.01). There were significant differences in the IQ score among the three ADHD subgroups (p<0.01). The IQ score in the ADHD-I and the ADHD-C groups was significantly lower than that in the control group. The mean plasma cortisol level in the ADHD group (226.5 + or - 129.1 nmol/L) was significantly lower than that in the control group (384.5 + or - 141.4 nmol/L) (p<0.01). The three ADHD subgroups showed significantly decreased plasma cortisol level compared with the control group (p<0.01). The plasma level of cortisol was the lowest in the ADHD-HI group (154.4 + or - 71.6 nmol/L), followed by the ADHD I group (219.4 + or - 117.7 nmol/L) and the ADHD-C group (258.3 + or - 136.4 nmol/L). There were no significant differences in plasma concentration of ACTH between ADHD and control children.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In the non-stress state, the HPA axis may be dysfunctional in children with ADHD, which may be attributed to the under reactivity of the HPA axis. Lower plasma cortisol has fewer impacts on the cognitive-behavior function, but it may closely be related to attention deficit, hyperactivity and impulsive behaviors.}, }
@article {pmid20111845, year = {2010}, author = {Barf, HA and Post, MW and Verhoef, M and Gooskens, RH and Prevo, AJ}, title = {Is cognitive functioning associated with subjective quality of life in young adults with spina bifida and hydrocephalus?.}, journal = {Journal of rehabilitation medicine}, volume = {42}, number = {1}, pages = {56-59}, doi = {10.2340/16501977-0481}, pmid = {20111845}, issn = {1651-2081}, mesh = {Adolescent ; *Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/etiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Hydrocephalus/complications/*psychology ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Quality of Life ; Spinal Dysraphism/complications/*psychology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To test the hypothesis that cognitive functioning is associated with subjective quality of life of young adults with spina bifida and hydrocephalus (SBHC).<br><br>DESIGN: Cross-sectional multi-centre study in The Netherlands.<br><br>SUBJECTS: A total of 110 young adults with SBHC (16-25 years old, 63% female).<br><br>METHODS: Cognitive domains measured were intelligence (Raven Standard Progressive Matrices), memory (Wechsler Memory Scale) and executive functioning (Wisconsin modified Card Sorting Test (WmCST), Trail Making Test A and B (TMT) and UNKA word production test). Subjective quality of life was measured with a visual analogue scale. Correlations and hierarchical regression analysis controlling for age, gender and functional independence were applied.<br><br>RESULTS: The TMT score was significantly associated (-0.25) with subjective quality of life. In the hierarchical regression analysis both the WmCST and TMT scores were significant determinants of subjective quality of life (Beta values 0.24 and -0.31 respectively). Intelligence, memory and word production were not related to subjective quality of life. All 5 cognitive variables together explained a significant additional 14.6% of the variance of subjective quality of life (total explained variance 19.9%).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Executive functioning was associated with subjective quality of life in young adults with spina bifida and hydrocephalus. This finding underlines the importance of examining cognitive functioning of persons with SBHC in addition to medical and functional status in medical care and outcome research.}, }
@article {pmid20090033, year = {2010}, author = {Ludwig, A and Bigras-Poulin, M and Michel, P and Bélanger, D}, title = {Risk factors associated with West Nile virus mortality in American Crow populations in Southern Quebec.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {46}, number = {1}, pages = {195-208}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-46.1.195}, pmid = {20090033}, issn = {1943-3700}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Animals, Wild/virology ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*mortality/transmission ; Crows/*virology ; Disease Reservoirs/veterinary ; Female ; Humans ; Linear Models ; Logistic Models ; Male ; Quebec/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; Seasons ; Sentinel Surveillance/*veterinary ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/mortality/transmission/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification ; Zoonoses ; }, abstract = {Soon after the appearance of West Nile virus (WNV) in North America, a number of public health authorities designated the American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) a sentinel for WNV detection. Although preliminary studies have suggested a positive association between American Crow mortality and increased risk of WNV infection in humans, we still know little about dynamic variation in American Crow mortality, both baseline levels and mortality associated with WNV. We hypothesized that the complex social behavior of American Crows, which is shaped by age and seasonal factors, influences both baseline mortality and WNV mortality in American Crow populations. We examined American Crow mortality data from Quebec for the 2005 WNV surveillance year, which lasted from 5 June to 17 September 2005. The variables of interest were age, gender, body condition index, time of year, and land cover. We used a log-linear model to examine baseline mortality. Logistic regression and general linear regression models were constructed to examine variables associated with mortality due to WNV. We found that both age and time of year were key variables in explaining baseline mortality. These two variables were also risk factors for WNV mortality. The probability that a carcass tested positive for WNV increased with the age of the dead bird and as summer progressed. WNV-positive carcasses also had a lower body condition index than WNV-negative carcasses. We believe that the first major wave of American Crow mortality observed in the early summer of 2005 was the result of natural mortality among young American Crows. Because this mortality was not linked to WNV, it appears that American Crow may not be a good species for early detection of WNV activity. Our data also suggest that second-year American Crows play a major role in propagating WNV during their movements to urban land covers during midsummer.}, }
@article {pmid20085665, year = {2010}, author = {Nagata, C and Nakamura, K and Wada, K and Oba, S and Hayashi, M and Takeda, N and Yasuda, K}, title = {Association of dietary fat, vegetables and antioxidant micronutrients with skin ageing in Japanese women.}, journal = {The British journal of nutrition}, volume = {103}, number = {10}, pages = {1493-1498}, doi = {10.1017/S0007114509993461}, pmid = {20085665}, issn = {1475-2662}, mesh = {Antioxidants/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; Dietary Fats/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; Female ; Food ; Food Analysis ; Humans ; Micronutrients/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; *Skin Aging/physiology ; *Vegetables ; }, abstract = {Daily diet may have implications for skin ageing. However, data on the relationship between diet and the parameters of skin conditions are scarce. The present study aimed to examine the associations of biophysical properties of the skin of women with intakes of fats and antioxidant micronutrients as well as food groups as sources of these nutrients. In a cross-sectional study, we measured the hydration, surface lipids and elasticity of the skin of 716 Japanese women using non-invasive techniques. The extent of facial wrinkles in the crow's-foot area was determined by observation using the Daniell scale. Each subject's usual diet was determined with the use of a validated FFQ. After controlling for covariates including age, smoking status, BMI and lifetime sun exposure, the results showed that higher intakes of total fat, saturated fat and monounsaturated fat were significantly associated with increased skin elasticity. A higher intake of green and yellow vegetables was significantly associated with a decreased Daniell wrinkling score. Intake of saturated fat was significantly inversely associated with the Daniell wrinkling score after additional adjustment for green and yellow vegetable intake. Further studies with more accurate measurement methods are needed to investigate the role of daily diet in skin ageing.}, }
@article {pmid20077388, year = {2009}, author = {Skaftnesmo, T}, title = {Goethe's phenomenology of nature: a juvenilization of science.}, journal = {Rivista di biologia}, volume = {102}, number = {2}, pages = {169-197}, pmid = {20077388}, issn = {0035-6050}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; *Biological Science Disciplines ; Empiricism ; *Hominidae ; Humans ; Primates ; }, abstract = {Empirical science is not a mere collection of facts. It builds theories and frames hypotheses within those theories. Empirical theories are stated as plausible answers to questions we pose to nature. According to the Galilean-Baconian tradition within science, these questions should basically explore the causes of observed phenomena, and further be restricted to the measurable and quantitative realm. Thus, the answers are generally expected to explain the effective causes behind the actual phenomena. By framing falsifiable hypotheses, the theories are tested against the empirical foundation on which they rest. In this way we try to relieve science from false theories. Thus, we have two epistemological levels: First, the theoretical level; the scientific theory explaining the phenomena, and second, the empirical level; the phenomena or facts verifying or falsifying those theories. According to the poet and multi-scientist Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832), there is however another way of science, namely an approach where these two levels fuse and become one. Goethe intended this approach to be a complementation of the Galilean-Baconian method, more than an alternative. He considered his "hypothesis-free method" to be a more comprehensive and secure way to understand nature. Whereas the Galilean-Baconian method aimed at explaining the effective causes of natural phenomena, in order to control and exploit nature for technical and industrial purposes, Goethe aimed at an exposition of the inherent meaning of the phenomena.We will explore, exemplify and discuss this approach with reference to the inherently Goethean phenomenology of evolution credited to the Dutch anatomist Louis Bolk (1866-1930), later commented and complemented by Stephen Jay Gould (1941-2002) and Jos Verhulst (1949). In the course of this presentation we will outline the Goethean approach as a method representing a juvenilization or in Bolk's terms, a fetalization of science.}, }
@article {pmid20067302, year = {2010}, author = {Weeratunga, SK and Lovell, S and Yao, H and Battaile, KP and Fischer, CJ and Gee, CE and Rivera, M}, title = {Structural studies of bacterioferritin B from Pseudomonas aeruginosa suggest a gating mechanism for iron uptake via the ferroxidase center .}, journal = {Biochemistry}, volume = {49}, number = {6}, pages = {1160-1175}, pmid = {20067302}, issn = {1520-4995}, support = {R01 GM050503-13/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; RR-017708/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; P20 RR017708/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; R01 GM050503-12/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; GM-50503/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; R29 GM050503/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 GM050503/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Bacterial Proteins/*chemistry/metabolism ; Ceruloplasmin/*chemistry/metabolism ; Crystallography, X-Ray ; Cytochrome b Group/*chemistry/metabolism ; Ferritins/*chemistry/metabolism ; Ferrous Compounds/chemistry/metabolism ; Histidine/metabolism ; Ion Channel Gating ; Iron/*chemistry/metabolism ; Oxidation-Reduction ; Pseudomonas aeruginosa/*enzymology ; }, abstract = {The structure of recombinant Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterioferritin B (Pa BfrB) has been determined from crystals grown from protein devoid of core mineral iron (as-isolated) and from protein mineralized with approximately 600 iron atoms (mineralized). Structures were also obtained from crystals grown from mineralized BfrB after they had been soaked in an FeSO(4) solution (Fe soak) and in separate experiments after they had been soaked in an FeSO(4) solution followed by a soak in a crystallization solution (double soak). Although the structures consist of a typical bacterioferritin fold comprised of a nearly spherical 24-mer assembly that binds 12 heme molecules, comparison of microenvironments observed in the distinct structures provided interesting insights. The ferroxidase center in the as-isolated, mineralized, and double-soak structures is empty. The ferroxidase ligands (except His130) are poised to bind iron with minimal conformational changes. The His130 side chain, on the other hand, must rotate toward the ferroxidase center to coordinate iron. In comparison, the structure obtained from crystals soaked in an FeSO(4) solution displays a fully occupied ferroxidase center and iron bound to the internal, Fe((in)), and external, Fe((out)), surfaces of Pa BfrB. The conformation of His130 in this structure is rotated toward the ferroxidase center and coordinates an iron ion. The structures also revealed a pore on the surface of Pa BfrB that likely serves as a port of entry for Fe(2+) to the ferroxidase center. On its opposite end, the pore is capped by the side chain of His130 when it adopts its "gate-closed" conformation that enables coordination to a ferroxidase iron. A change to its "gate-open", noncoordinative conformation creates a path for the translocation of iron from the ferroxidase center to the interior cavity. These structural observations, together with findings obtained from iron incorporation measurements in solution, suggest that the ferroxidase pore is the dominant entry route for the uptake of iron by Pa BfrB. These findings, which are clearly distinct from those made with Escherichia coli Bfr [Crow, A. C., Lawson, T. L., Lewin, A., Moore, G. R., and Le Brun, N. E. (2009) J. Am. Chem. Soc. 131, 6808-6813], indicate that not all bacterioferritins operate in the same manner.}, }
@article {pmid19931689, year = {2009}, author = {Gassia, V}, title = {[Botulinum toxin A in the treatment of wrinkles in the upper third of the face].}, journal = {Annales de dermatologie et de venereologie}, volume = {136 Suppl 6}, number = {}, pages = {S299-305}, doi = {10.1016/S0151-9638(09)72537-2}, pmid = {19931689}, issn = {0151-9638}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Face ; Humans ; Injections, Subcutaneous ; Neuromuscular Agents/*therapeutic use ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {The practice of botulinum toxin injections is unavoidable in the correction of facial aging. In effect botulinum toxin allows to erase dynamic wrinkles, by transient and reversible muscular relaxation. This is the best wrinkle treatment for the upper part of the face: glabellar lines, horizontal forehead lines and crow's feet. This technique requires a good understanding of facial muscular anatomy, in order to correctly apply the basics of injection. Every patient is unique and only a big experience will allow to refine and personalise injections.}, }
@article {pmid19931684, year = {2009}, author = {Sainthillier, JM and Mac-Mary, S and Humbert, P}, title = {[Wrinkles analysis and representation by 2D imaging].}, journal = {Annales de dermatologie et de venereologie}, volume = {136 Suppl 6}, number = {}, pages = {S273-9}, doi = {10.1016/S0151-9638(09)72532-3}, pmid = {19931684}, issn = {0151-9638}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Humans ; *Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Photography ; Skin/*ultrastructure ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {In clinical evaluation, digital photography is a valuable low-cost and easy to use tool to illustrate assessments; hence the temptation to use it for analysis purposes, particularly in the assessment of facial wrinkles (forehead wrinkles, crow's feet). We review different methods to quantify the volume from 2D images, most of them directly adapted from algorithms initially developed in 3D profilometry. The 3D representation of these photographs is also detailed using several examples. Finally, the limits and drawbacks of this 3D "pseudo quantification" are listed and compared with those usually found in classic profilometry.}, }
@article {pmid20065352, year = {2010}, author = {Silva, FJ and Silva, KM}, title = {How do adult humans compare with New Caledonian crows in tool selectivity?.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {38}, number = {1}, pages = {87-95}, pmid = {20065352}, issn = {1543-4494}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Choice Behavior/*physiology ; Cognition/physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Humans ; Motor Skills/physiology ; New Caledonia ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Species Specificity ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {We examined humans' tool selections on stick-and-tube tasks similar to those used to study crows' and other avian species' physical cognition. In Experiment 1, the participants selected a stick from a set of 10 to retrieve a candy placed in a horizontal tube. Although the stick that was selected depended on the distance to the candy, the participants generally did not select a stick whose length was the same as the candy's distance from the open end of the tube nor did they select the longest stick in the set-two strategies that have been reported in crows. In Experiments 2 and 3, we used variations of the stick-and-tube task to determine what factors in addition to the candy's distance influenced the participants' selections. The results showed that tool selection depended on the stimulus context (i.e., the number and lengths of the alternative tools).}, }
@article {pmid20056377, year = {2010}, author = {Kozulin, A and Lebeer, J and Madella-Noja, A and Gonzalez, F and Jeffrey, I and Rosenthal, N and Koslowsky, M}, title = {Cognitive modifiability of children with developmental disabilities: a multicentre study using Feuerstein's Instrumental Enrichment--Basic program.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {31}, number = {2}, pages = {551-559}, doi = {10.1016/j.ridd.2009.12.001}, pmid = {20056377}, issn = {1873-3379}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/rehabilitation ; Cerebral Palsy/rehabilitation ; Child ; Child Development Disorders, Pervasive/rehabilitation ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition Disorders/rehabilitation ; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/*methods ; Developmental Disabilities/*rehabilitation ; Education of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities/*methods ; Environment Design ; Humans ; Learning ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The study aimed at exploring the effectiveness of cognitive intervention with the new "Instrumental Enrichment Basic" program (IE-basic), based on Feuerstein's theory of structural cognitive modifiability that contends that a child's cognitive functioning can be significantly modified through mediated learning intervention. The IE-basic progam is aimed at enhancing domain-general cognitive functioning in a number of areas (systematic perception, self-regulation abilities, conceptual vocabulary, planning, decoding emotions and social relations) as well as transferring learnt principles to daily life domains. Participants were children with DCD, CP, intellectual impairment of genetic origin, autistic spectrum disorder, ADHD or other learning disorders, with a mental age of 5-7 years, from Canada, Chile, Belgium, Italy and Israel. Children in the experimental groups (N=104) received 27-90 h of the program during 30-45 weeks; the comparison groups (N=72) received general occupational and sensory-motor therapy. Analysis of the pre- to post-test gain scores demonstrated significant (p<0.05) advantage of experimental over comparison groups in three WISC-R subtests ("Similarities", "Picture Completion", "Picture Arrangement") and Raven Coloured Matrices. Effect sizes ranged from 0.3 to 0.52. Results suggest that it is possible to improve cognitive functioning of children with developmental disability. No advantage was found for children with specific aetiology. Greater cognitive gains were demonstrated by children who received the program in an educational context where all teachers were committed to the principles of mediated learning.}, }
@article {pmid20053741, year = {2010}, author = {Ueda, M and Daidoji, T and Du, A and Yang, CS and Ibrahim, MS and Ikuta, K and Nakaya, T}, title = {Highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus induces extracellular Ca2+ influx, leading to apoptosis in avian cells.}, journal = {Journal of virology}, volume = {84}, number = {6}, pages = {3068-3078}, pmid = {20053741}, issn = {1098-5514}, mesh = {Animals ; Apoptosis/*physiology ; Calcium/*metabolism ; Cells, Cultured ; Chickens/metabolism/*virology ; Ducks/metabolism/*virology ; Fibroblasts/cytology/physiology/virology ; Gene Expression Regulation, Viral ; Hemagglutinins, Viral/genetics/metabolism ; Humans ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/genetics/*metabolism ; *Influenza in Birds/metabolism/virology ; Influenza, Human/virology ; Virion/metabolism ; }, abstract = {In this study, we show that the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus (AIV) (A/crow/Kyoto/53/04 and A/chicken/Egypt/CL6/07) induced apoptosis in duck embryonic fibroblasts (DEF). In contrast, apoptosis was reduced among cells infected with low-pathogenic AIVs (A/duck/HK/342/78 [H5N2], A/duck/HK/820/80 [H5N3], A/wigeon/Osaka/1/01 [H7N7], and A/turkey/Wisconsin/1/66 [H9N2]). Thus, we investigated the molecular mechanisms of apoptosis induced by H5N1-AIV infection. Caspase-dependent and -independent pathways contributed to the cytopathic effects. We further showed that, in the induction of apoptosis, the hemagglutinin of H5N1-AIV played a major role and its cleavage sequence was not critical. We also observed outer membrane permeabilization and loss of the transmembrane potential of the mitochondria of infected DEF, indicating that mitochondrial dysfunction was caused by the H5N1-AIV infection. We then analyzed Ca(2+) dynamics in the infected cells and demonstrated an increase in the concentration of Ca(2+) in the cytosol ([Ca(2+)](i)) and mitochondria ([Ca(2+)](m)) after H5N1-AIV infection. Regardless, gene expression important for regulating Ca(2+) efflux from the endoplasmic reticulum did not significantly change after H5N1-AIV infection. These results suggest that extracellular Ca(2+) may enter H5N1-AIV-infected cells. Indeed, EGTA, which chelates extracellular free Ca(2+), significantly reduced the [Ca(2+)](i), [Ca(2+)](m), and apoptosis induced by H5N1-AIV infection. In conclusion, we identified a novel mechanism for influenza A virus-mediated cell death, which involved the acceleration of extracellular Ca(2+) influx, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis. These findings may be useful for understanding the pathogenesis of H5N1-AIV in avian species as well as the impact of Ca(2+) homeostasis on influenza A virus infection.}, }
@article {pmid20053646, year = {2010}, author = {Bluff, LA and Troscianko, J and Weir, AA and Kacelnik, A and Rutz, C}, title = {Tool use by wild New Caledonian crows Corvus moneduloides at natural foraging sites.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {277}, number = {1686}, pages = {1377-1385}, pmid = {20053646}, issn = {1471-2954}, support = {BB/C517392/1//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/G023913/1//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {*Aleurites/parasitology ; Animals ; Animals, Wild/physiology ; Behavior, Animal ; Coleoptera/growth &amp; development ; Crows/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Larva ; New Caledonia ; Plant Leaves ; Plant Stems ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; Videotape Recording ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian crows Corvus moneduloides use tools made from sticks or leaf stems to 'fish' woodboring beetle larvae from their burrows in decaying wood. Previous research on this behaviour has been confined to baited sites, leaving its ecological context and significance virtually unexplored. To obtain detailed observations of natural, undisturbed tool use, we deployed motion-triggered video cameras at seven larva-fishing sites. From 1797 camera hours of surveillance over 111 days, we recorded 317 site visits by at least 14 individual crows. Tool use was observed during 150 site visits. Our video footage revealed notable variation in foraging success among identifiable crows. Two nutritionally independent, immature crows spent considerable time using tools, but were much less successful than local adults, highlighting the potential role of individual and social learning in the acquisition of tool-use proficiency. During systematic surveys of larva-fishing sites, we collected 193 tools that crows had left inserted in larva burrows. Comparing these tools with the holes in which they were found, and with raw materials available around logs, provides evidence for tool selectivity by New Caledonian crows under natural conditions. Taken together, these two complementary lines of investigation provide, to our knowledge, the first quantitative description of larva fishing by wild crows in its full ecological context.}, }
@article {pmid20052071, year = {2009}, author = {Luo, X and Poon, AW}, title = {Many-element coupled-resonator optical waveguides using gapless-coupled microdisk resonators.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {17}, number = {26}, pages = {23617-23628}, doi = {10.1364/OE.17.023617}, pmid = {20052071}, issn = {1094-4087}, mesh = {Computer-Aided Design ; Equipment Design ; Equipment Failure Analysis ; Miniaturization ; *Optical Devices ; Refractometry/*instrumentation ; *Transducers ; Vibration ; }, abstract = {We report silicon photonic many-element coupled-resonator optical waveguides (CROWs) using microspiral and double-notch-shaped microdisk resonators. Such microresonators enable gapless inter-cavity coupling via seamlessly jointed sub-micrometer-sized notches. Our experiments reveal CROW transmission spectra using up to 101 gaplessly coupled microdisk resonators. We estimate from the transmission measurements an insertion loss of approximately 0.11-approximately 0.24 dB/disk within the transmission bands. We show high-order filtering performance with maximum 3-dB linewidth of approximately 2.5 nm and measurement-limited side-mode suppression ratio of approximately 30 dB. The demonstrated maximum optical delay from a 101-element 0.4-microm-notch CROW is approximately 70 ps at the transmission band center and approximately 110 ps at the sideband.}, }
@article {pmid22736730, year = {2010}, author = {Millar, S}, title = {Anaesthetic management of Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {BMJ case reports}, volume = {2010}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {22736730}, issn = {1757-790X}, mesh = {Anesthesia, General/*methods ; Hernia, Abdominal/*surgery ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *POEMS Syndrome ; }, abstract = {Crow-Fukase syndrome is a multisystem disorder with anaesthetic risks including prolonged duration of action of neuromuscular blocking drugs. The case of a patient with this syndrome who underwent six separate elective procedures and one urgent surgical procedure is reported. Avoidance of neuromuscular blocking drugs and use of regional anaesthetic techniques are recommended.}, }
@article {pmid21510333, year = {2010}, author = {Runstedtler, T}, title = {White Anglo-Saxon hopes and black Americans' Atlantic dreams: Jack Johnson and the British boxing colour bar.}, journal = {Journal of world history : official journal of the World History Association}, volume = {21}, number = {4}, pages = {657-689}, pmid = {21510333}, issn = {1045-6007}, mesh = {*Black or African American/education/ethnology/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; Anthropology, Cultural/education/history ; *Athletes/education/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; Athletic Performance/economics/education/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/physiology/psychology ; *Boxing/economics/education/history/physiology/psychology ; Cultural Diversity ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Men's Health/ethnology/history ; *Race Relations/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; Social Conditions/economics/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; *Social Control Policies/economics/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; *Social Problems/economics/ethnology/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; United Kingdom/ethnology ; White People/education/ethnology/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; }, abstract = {This article examines the controversy surrounding Jack Johnson's proposed world heavyweight title fight against the British champion Bombardier Billy Wells in London (1911). In juxtaposing African Americans' often glowing discussions of European tolerance with the actual white resistance the black champion faced in Britain, including the Home Office's eventual prohibition of the match, the article explores the period's transnational discourses of race and citizenship. Indeed, as white sportsmen on both sides of the Atlantic joined together in their search for a "White Hope" to unseat Johnson, the boxing ring became an important cultural arena for interracial debates over the political and social divisions between white citizens and nonwhite subjects. Although African Americans had high hopes for their hero's European sojourn, the British backlash against the Johnson-Wells match underscored the fact that their local experiences of racial oppression were just one facet of a much broader global problem. At the same time, the proposed prizefight also made the specter of interracial conflict in the colonies all the more tangible in the British capital, provoking public discussions about the merits of U.S. racial segregation, along with the need for white Anglo-Saxon solidarity around the world. Thus, this article not only exposes the underlying connections between American Jim Crow and the racialized fault lines of British imperialism, but it also traces the "tense and tender ties" linking U.S. and African American history with the new imperial history and postcolonial studies.}, }
@article {pmid20042066, year = {2010}, author = {Calistri, P and Giovannini, A and Savini, G and Monaco, F and Bonfanti, L and Ceolin, C and Terregino, C and Tamba, M and Cordioli, P and Lelli, R}, title = {West Nile virus transmission in 2008 in north-eastern Italy.}, journal = {Zoonoses and public health}, volume = {57}, number = {3}, pages = {211-219}, doi = {10.1111/j.1863-2378.2009.01303.x}, pmid = {20042066}, issn = {1863-2378}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/virology ; Disease Outbreaks/*veterinary ; Horse Diseases/epidemiology/*transmission/virology ; Horses ; Italy/epidemiology ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*transmission/veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {After 10 years, West Nile virus (WNV) re-emerged in Italy in August 2008. As on 31 December 2008, the infection affected eight Provinces in three Regions (Emilia Romagna, Veneto, Lombardy), where a total of 794 cases of WNV infection in 251 equine stables were detected on the basis of the clinical signs and as a result of a serological screening in horses living in the area. Only 4.0% (32/794) of the serologically positive animals showed clinical signs, and the 32 clinical cases were reported in 18 different farms. The observed case-fatality rate was 15.6% (5/32). The confirmed clinical cases were detected from end August to mid October. Significant levels of positivity by RT-PCR were also observed in magpies (Pica pica) (9.1%, 95% confidence levels: 6.1-13.4%), carrion crows (Corvus corone) (7.4%, 95% confidence levels: 3.6-14.4%) and rock pigeons (Columba livia) (12.9%, 95% confidence levels: 7.6-21.2%).}, }
@article {pmid20027786, year = {2009}, author = {Patterson, A}, title = {Germs and Jim Crow: the impact of microbiology on public health policies in progressive era American South.}, journal = {Journal of the history of biology}, volume = {42}, number = {3}, pages = {529-559}, pmid = {20027786}, issn = {0022-5010}, mesh = {Black or African American/*history ; Communicable Disease Control/history ; Health Policy/*history ; Healthcare Disparities/history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Microbiology/*history ; *Prejudice ; Public Health Practice/*history ; United States ; }, abstract = {Race proved not merely a disadvantage in securing access to prompt and appropriate medical care, but often became a life and death issue for blacks in the American South during the early decades of the twentieth century. This article investigates the impact some of the new academic disciplines such as anthropology, evolutionary biology, racially based pathology and genetics had in promoting scientific racism. The disproportionately high morbidity and mortality rates among blacks were seen as a consequence of inherent racial deficiencies that rendered any attempt to ameliorate their situation as futile. While the belief in a different pathology in blacks initially deterred most health officials from taking any action, advances in medicine and microbiology, in particular the germ theory, stirred a variety of responses out of sheer self preservation, as fears among whites at the first sign of an epidemic initiated sporadic and limited actions. Ironically, in an era of deepening scientific racism, public health initiatives based on a better understanding of disease causing microorganisms, gradually improved black health. However, some public health measures were hijacked by eugenicists and racists and, rather than addressing the ill health of blacks, public health policy complied with the new laws of heredity by promoting drastic measures such as involuntary sterilization or even abortion. This further complicated the strained relationship between southern blacks and health care professionals and effected ongoing distrust towards public healthcare services.}, }
@article {pmid20025657, year = {2009}, author = {Himler, AG and Machado, CA}, title = {Host specificity, phenotype matching and the evolution of reproductive isolation in a coevolved plant-pollinator mutualism.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {18}, number = {24}, pages = {4988-4990}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2009.04429.x}, pmid = {20025657}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; *Gene Flow ; *Genetic Fitness ; Moths/genetics/physiology ; Phenotype ; *Pollination ; Species Specificity ; Yucca/genetics ; }, abstract = {Coevolutionary interactions between plants and their associated pollinators and seed dispersers are thought to have promoted the diversification of flowering plants (Raven 1977; Regal 1977; Stebbins 1981). The actual mechanisms by which pollinators could drive species diversification in plants are not fully understood. However, it is thought that pollinator host specialization can influence the evolution of reproductive isolation among plant populations because the pollinator's choice of host is what determines patterns of gene flow in its host plant, and host choice may also have important consequences on pollinator and host fitness (Grant 1949; Bawa 1992). In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Smith et al. (2009) present a very interesting study that addresses how host specialization affects pollinator fitness and patterns of gene flow in a plant host. Several aspects of this study match elements of a seminal mathematical model of plant-pollinator codivergence (Kiester et al. 1984) suggesting that reciprocal selection for matched plant and pollinator reproductive traits may lead to speciation in the host and its pollinator when there is strong host specialization and a pattern of geographic subdivision. Smith et al.'s study represents an important step to fill the gap in our understanding of how reciprocal selection may lead to speciation in coevolved plant-pollinator mutualisms.}, }
@article {pmid20020166, year = {2010}, author = {Scheid, C and Noë, R}, title = {The performance of rooks in a cooperative task depends on their temperament.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {13}, number = {3}, pages = {545-553}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-009-0305-1}, pmid = {20020166}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cooperative Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Learning/physiology ; Male ; Stress, Psychological/physiopathology ; Temperament/physiology ; }, abstract = {In recent years, an increasing number of studies demonstrated the existence of consistent individual differences in behaviour, often referred to as differences in temperament or personality, in a wide range of animal species. There notably is a growing body of evidence showing that individuals differ in their propensity for risk taking or reacting to stressful situations. This variation has been related to differences in learning abilities or performance in cognitive tasks. In the present study, we examined the consequences of inter-individual variation in boldness on performance in a cooperative task in rooks (Corvus frugilegus). Birds were tested individually to measure a number of behavioural parameters related to boldness. The level of a stress-related hormone, corticosterone, in the faeces of each bird was measured under control conditions and after a stress-provoking event. In parallel, we conducted a cooperative string pulling task in which birds were tested in dyads. Successful cooperation depended to a large extent on the temperament of the two partners involved. Temperament, in turn, correlated well with corticosterone levels under stress. Bolder individuals appeared to be more willing to participate in the task, whereas shyer individuals were more influenced by the behaviour of their partner. These findings suggest that a rook's temperament can limit its options of forming successfully cooperating partnerships under stressful conditions.}, }
@article {pmid20019912, year = {2009}, author = {Park, HY and Park, JS and Sovcikova, E and Kocan, A and Linderholm, L and Bergman, A and Trnovec, T and Hertz-Picciotto, I}, title = {Exposure to hydroxylated polychlorinated biphenyls (OH-PCBs) in the prenatal period and subsequent neurodevelopment in eastern Slovakia.}, journal = {Environmental health perspectives}, volume = {117}, number = {10}, pages = {1600-1606}, pmid = {20019912}, issn = {1552-9924}, support = {P01 ES011269/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 CA096525/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; 1 P01-ES11269/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; R01-CA96525/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Environmental Exposure ; Environmental Pollutants/*toxicity ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Linear Models ; Male ; Polychlorinated Biphenyls/*toxicity ; Pregnancy ; *Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects ; Psychomotor Performance/*drug effects ; Slovakia ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hydroxylated polychlorinated biphenyls (OH-PCBs), unlike PCBs, are in general readily excreted yet are still detected in humans and animals. Active transport of OH-PCBs across the placenta and hydroxylation of PCBs by the fetus suggest the potential for greater impact on the fetus compared with the parent PCB compounds, but little is known about their health effects, particularly in humans.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to evaluate the associations between prenatal OH-PCB exposure and neurodevelopment in children at 16 months of age in eastern Slovakia.<br><br>METHODS: A birth cohort (n = 1,134) was enrolled during 2002-2004. We analyzed six OH-PCB metabolites (4-OH-CB-107, 3-OH-CB-153, 4-OH-CB-146, 3'-OH-CB-138, 4-OH-CB-187, and 4'-OH-CB-172) in a subset of the cohort. The Bayley Scales of Infant Development were administered to the children at the 16-month follow-up visit. We developed multiple linear regression models predicting standardized scores for the Mental Development Index (MDI) and Psychomotor Development Index (PDI) from maternal (n = 147) and cord (n = 80) serum OH-PCB concentrations, adjusting for sex of child, district, HOME (Home Observation for Measurement of the Environment) score, and maternal score on Raven's Progressive Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: Cord 4-OH-CB-107 was significantly associated with lower MDI (beta = -2.27; p = 0.01) and PDI (beta = -4.50; p = 0.004). Also, maternal 4-OH-CB-107 was significantly associated with lower MDI (beta = -1.76; p = 0.03) but not PDI. No other OH-PCB metabolites were associated with decreased PDI or MDI.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our findings showed a significant association of 4-OH-CB-107 with decreased MDI, which can possibly be mediated by endocrine disruption, altered neurotransmitter functions, or reduced thyroid hormone concentrations in brain.}, }
@article {pmid20015262, year = {2010}, author = {Castro, J and Moreno-Rueda, G and Hódar, JA}, title = {Experimental test of postfire management in pine forests: impact of salvage logging versus partial cutting and nonintervention on bird-species assemblages.}, journal = {Conservation biology : the journal of the Society for Conservation Biology}, volume = {24}, number = {3}, pages = {810-819}, doi = {10.1111/j.1523-1739.2009.01382.x}, pmid = {20015262}, issn = {1523-1739}, mesh = {Animals ; Biodiversity ; Birds/*classification ; *Fires ; *Pinus ; }, abstract = {There is an intense debate about the effects of postfire salvage logging versus nonintervention policies on regeneration of forest communities, but scant information from experimental studies is available. We manipulated a burned forest area on a Mediterranean mountain to experimentally analyze the effect of salvage logging on bird-species abundance, diversity, and assemblage composition. We used a randomized block design with three plots of approximately 25 ha each, established along an elevational gradient in a recently burned area in Sierra Nevada Natural and National Park (southeastern Spain). Three replicates of three treatments differing in postfire burned wood management were established per plot: salvage logging, nonintervention, and an intermediate degree of intervention (felling and lopping most of the trees but leaving all the biomass). Starting 1 year after the fire, we used point sampling to monitor bird abundance in each treatment for 2 consecutive years during the breeding and winter seasons (720 censuses total). Postfire burned-wood management altered species assemblages. Salvage logged areas had species typical of open- and early-successional habitats. Bird species that inhabit forests were still present in the unsalvaged treatments even though trees were burned, but were almost absent in salvage-logged areas. Indeed, the main dispersers of mid- and late-successional shrubs and trees, such as thrushes (Turdus spp.) and the European Jay (Garrulus glandarius) were almost restricted to unsalvaged treatments. Salvage logging might thus hamper the natural regeneration of the forest through its impact on assemblages of bird species. Moreover, salvage logging reduced species abundance by 50% and richness by 40%, approximately. The highest diversity at the landscape level (gamma diversity) resulted from a combination of all treatments. Salvage logging may be positive for bird conservation if combined in a mosaic with other, less-aggressive postfire management, but stand-wide management with harvest operations has undesirable conservation effects.}, }
@article {pmid19999786, year = {2009}, author = {Dissanayake, DS and Kumarasiri, PV and Nugegoda, DB and Dissanayake, DM}, title = {The association of iron status with educational performance and intelligence among adolescents.}, journal = {The Ceylon medical journal}, volume = {54}, number = {3}, pages = {75-79}, doi = {10.4038/cmj.v54i3.1199}, pmid = {19999786}, issn = {0009-0875}, mesh = {*Achievement ; Adolescent ; Anemia, Iron-Deficiency/*complications ; *Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/epidemiology/*etiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Educational Status ; Female ; Health Status ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Iron Compounds/therapeutic use ; *Iron Deficiencies ; Linear Models ; Male ; Nutritional Status ; Regression Analysis ; Reproducibility of Results ; Risk Factors ; Sri Lanka/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The aim was to identify the association of iron status with educational performance and intelligence of adolescents.<br><br>METHOD: This was a cross sectional comparative study among adolescents aged 13-15 years. Each iron deficient student was matched with an iron sufficient student from the same school, class and sex. Iron status was based on haemoglobin and serum ferritin levels. The marks for mathematics, science, Sinhala language and social science were considered to assess educational performance. Intelligence was measured by Raven's Standard progressive matrices. All the possible confounders and effect modifiers were considered. Home visits to a sub-sample checked the quality of data.<br><br>RESULTS: The final analysis included 188 students (94 matched pairs). Neither educational performance nor intelligence showed significant associations with the iron status. The severity of the iron deficiency did not relate to these cognitive variables either. Twenty-three and 8 co-variables showed statistically significant associations with educational performance and intelligence respectively. Following a multiple regression analysis intelligence, the enthusiasm of the student towards learning, occupational ambition, household possession, problems at home and private tuition for mathematics were key factors predicting educational performance. Stunting and educational level of the mother were important factors influencing intelligence.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Iron status does not play a major role in educational performance and intelligence of school going adolescents. Several factors affect educational performance and intelligence. This study highlights the difficulty in extrapolating the findings of similar studies to different ecological settings.}, }
@article {pmid19997343, year = {2009}, author = {Doménech, JD and Muñoz, P and Capmany, J}, title = {The longitudinal offset technique for apodization of coupled resonator optical waveguide devices: concept and fabrication tolerance analysis.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {17}, number = {23}, pages = {21050-21059}, doi = {10.1364/OE.17.021050}, pmid = {19997343}, issn = {1094-4087}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Computer Simulation ; Computer-Aided Design ; Equipment Design ; Optical Devices ; *Optics and Photonics ; Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted ; }, abstract = {In this paper, a novel technique to set the coupling constant between cells of a coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW) device, in order to tailor the filter response, is presented. The technique is demonstrated by simulation assuming a racetrack ring resonator geometry. It consists on changing the effective length of the coupling section by applying a longitudinal offset between the resonators. On the contrary, the conventional techniques are based in the transversal change of the distance between the ring resonators, in steps that are commonly below the current fabrication resolution step (nm scale), leading to strong restrictions in the designs. The proposed longitudinal offset technique allows a more precise control of the coupling and presents an increased robustness against the fabrication limitations, since the needed resolution step is two orders of magnitude higher. Both techniques are compared in terms of the transmission esponse of CROW devices, under finite fabrication resolution steps.}, }
@article {pmid19996559, year = {2010}, author = {Hirata, A and Yonemaru, K and Kubo, M and Murakami, M and Sakai, H and Yanai, T and Masegi, T}, title = {Frequent development of inflammatory lesions and lymphoid foci in the kidneys of Japanese wild crows (Corvus macrorhynchos and Corvus corone) as a result of the entry of causal agents via the renal portal blood.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {72}, number = {3}, pages = {327-332}, doi = {10.1292/jvms.09-0326}, pmid = {19996559}, issn = {0916-7250}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Bird Diseases/parasitology/pathology ; Cerebral Cortex/parasitology/pathology ; Coccidia/isolation &amp; purification ; Coccidiosis/parasitology/pathology/veterinary ; Crows ; Granuloma/parasitology/pathology/veterinary ; Inflammation/parasitology/pathology ; Kidney/drug effects/*parasitology/*pathology/virology ; Liver/parasitology ; Lymphocytes/parasitology/virology ; Nematoda/isolation &amp; purification ; Nematode Infections/parasitology/pathology/veterinary ; *Renal Circulation ; Trematoda/isolation &amp; purification ; Trematode Infections/parasitology/pathology/veterinary ; }, abstract = {Although the increase in the number of wild crows is causing social problems in urban areas, crows play an increasingly important role in monitoring serious infectious diseases, such as highly pathogenic avian influenza and West Nile fever. To gain a better understanding of normal conditions and common disorders in crows, we conducted a retrospective study of wild crows captured in central Japan in the 1990s and examined the necropsy findings from 166 jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) and 74 carrion crows (Corvus corone). We found frequent development of lymphoid foci and inflammatory lesions in the kidneys of both species of crows. These findings were unrelated to place or date of capture, indicating the universality of renal lesion developments in the Corvus species. In the kidneys, suppurative granulomas were concentrated in the renal cortex and the vein wall, indicating the haematoegenous spread of causal agents. However, the glomeruli remained intact, unlike the spreading of causal agents via arterial blood, which strongly suggested the renal portal blood as a possible entry route of causal agents. The renal lymphoid foci showed the same distribution as the granulomas, supporting the possibility of external agents entering through renal portal blood. We also identified types of parasites in Japanese wild crows by means of histopathological analysis. We hope that our data will contribute to the appropriate evaluation and a better understanding of pathological conditions in Japanese wild crows.}, }
@article {pmid19967873, year = {2009}, author = {Breininger, DR and Nichols, JD and Carter, GM and Oddy, DM}, title = {Habitat-specific breeder survival of Florida Scrub-Jays: inferences from multistate models.}, journal = {Ecology}, volume = {90}, number = {11}, pages = {3180-3189}, doi = {10.1890/08-1123.1}, pmid = {19967873}, issn = {0012-9658}, mesh = {Animals ; *Ecosystem ; Female ; Male ; Models, Biological ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Reproduction/*physiology ; Survival Analysis ; }, abstract = {Quantifying habitat-specific survival and changes in habitat quality within disturbance-prone habitats is critical for understanding population dynamics and variation in fitness, and for managing degraded ecosystems. We used 18 years of color-banding data and multistate capture-recapture models to test whether habitat quality within territories influences survival and detection probability of breeding Florida Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) and to estimate bird transition probabilities from one territory quality state to another. Our study sites were along central Florida's Atlantic coast and included two of the four largest metapopulations within the species range. We developed Markov models for habitat transitions and compared these to bird transition probabilities. Florida Scrub-Jay detection probabilities ranged from 0.88 in the tall territory state to 0.99 in the optimal state; detection probabilities were intermediate in the short state. Transition probabilities were similar for birds and habitat in grid cells mapped independently of birds. Thus, bird transitions resulted primarily from habitat transitions between states over time and not from bird movement. Survival ranged from 0.71 in the short state to 0.82 in the optimal state, with tall states being intermediate. We conclude that average Florida Scrub-Jay survival will remain at levels that lead to continued population declines because most current habitat quality is only marginally suitable across most of the species range. Improvements in habitat are likely to be slow and difficult because tall states are resistant to change and the optimal state represents an intermediate transitional stage. The multistate modeling approach to quantifying survival and habitat transition probabilities is useful for quantifying habitat transition probabilities and comparing them to bird transition probabilities to test for habitat selection in dynamic environments.}, }
@article {pmid19966742, year = {2009}, author = {Snowden, A}, title = {Classification of schizophrenia. Part one: the enduring existence of madness.}, journal = {British journal of nursing (Mark Allen Publishing)}, volume = {18}, number = {19}, pages = {1176-1180}, doi = {10.12968/bjon.2009.18.19.44822}, pmid = {19966742}, issn = {0966-0461}, mesh = {Causality ; *Classification ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; International Classification of Diseases/history ; Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Psychiatric Nursing/history ; Psychiatry/*history ; *Psychological Theory ; Schizophrenia/*history ; Schizophrenic Psychology ; }, abstract = {The classification of schizophrenia is currently under review in a coordinated worldwide consultation for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM V) and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD 11) - the standard manuals for psychiatric classification. To understand the issues under consideration, the underpinning foundations of the concept need to be understood. This article, the first of two parts, analyses the theoretical input of Kraepelin, Bleuler, Jaspers, Schneider and Crow in order to delineate the boundaries of current discussions. The second part will analyze the importance of nursing engagement with classification by contrasting it with the harm of not doing so.}, }
@article {pmid19964184, year = {2009}, author = {Lum, MJ and Rosen, J and King, H and Friedman, DC and Lendvay, TS and Wright, AS and Sinanan, MN and Hannaford, B}, title = {Teleoperation in surgical robotics--network latency effects on surgical performance.}, journal = {Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Annual International Conference}, volume = {2009}, number = {}, pages = {6860-6863}, doi = {10.1109/IEMBS.2009.5333120}, pmid = {19964184}, issn = {2375-7477}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Florida ; Humans ; Laparoscopy/*methods ; Robotics/*methods ; Telemedicine/*methods ; Time Factors ; Washington ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {A teleoperated surgical robotic system allows surgical procedures to be conducted across long distances while utilizing wired and wireless communication with a wide spectrum of performance that may affect the outcome. An open architecture portable surgical robotic system (Raven) was developed for both open and minimally invasive surgery. The system has been the subject of an intensive telesurgical experimental protocol aimed at exploring the boundaries of the system and surgeon performance during a series of field experiments in extreme environments (desert and underwater) teleportation between US, Europe, and Japan as well as lab experiments under synthetic fixed time delay. One standard task (block transfer emulating tissue manipulation) of the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) training kit was used for the experimental protocol. Network characterization indicated a typical time delay in the range of 16-172 ms in field experiments. The results of the lab experiments showed that the completion time of the task as well as the length of the tool tip trajectory significantly increased (alpha< 0.02) as time delay increased in the range of 0-0.5 sec increased. For teleoperation with a time delay of 0.25s and 0.5s the task completion time was lengthened by a factor of 1.45 and 2.04 with respect to no time delay, whereas the length of the tools' trajectory was increased by a factor of 1.28 and 1.53 with respect to no time delay. There were no statistical differences between experienced surgeons and non-surgeons in the number of errors (block drooping) as well as the completion time and the tool tip path length at different time delays.}, }
@article {pmid19948142, year = {2009}, author = {Shettleworth, SJ}, title = {Animal cognition: Deconstructing avian insight.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {19}, number = {22}, pages = {R1039-40}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2009.10.022}, pmid = {19948142}, issn = {1879-0445}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; *Cognition ; }, abstract = {A new study of how experience contributes to apparently insightful problem-solving by tool-using crows has shown that operating an apparatus with the beak or a stick promotes novel use of stones on the same apparatus.}, }
@article {pmid19944590, year = {2010}, author = {Anjum, MN and Parker, W and Ruo, R and Aldahlawi, I and Afzal, M}, title = {IMRT quality assurance using a second treatment planning system.}, journal = {Medical dosimetry : official journal of the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists}, volume = {35}, number = {4}, pages = {274-279}, doi = {10.1016/j.meddos.2009.09.001}, pmid = {19944590}, issn = {1873-4022}, mesh = {Equipment Failure Analysis ; Humans ; Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Quality Assurance, Health Care/methods/*standards ; Quebec ; Radiometry/*instrumentation/*standards ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/instrumentation/standards ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*instrumentation/*standards ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; }, abstract = {We used a second treatment planning system (TPS) for independent verification of the dose calculated by our primary TPS in the context of patient-specific quality assurance (QA) for intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). QA plans for 24 patients treated with inverse planned dynamic IMRT were generated using the Nomos Corvus TPS. The plans were calculated on a computed tomography scan of our QA phantom that consists of three Solid Water slabs sandwiching radiochromic films, and an ion chamber that is inserted into the center slab of the phantom. For the independent verification, the dose was recalculated using the Varian Eclipse TPS using the multileaf collimator files and beam geometry from the original plan. The data was then compared in terms of absolute dose to the ion chamber volume as well as relative dose on isodoses calculated at the film plane. The calculation results were also compared with measurements performed for each case. When comparing ion chamber doses, the mean ratio was 0.999 (SD 0.010) for Eclipse vs. Corvus, 0.988 (SD 0.020) for the ionization chamber measurements vs. Corvus, and 0.989 (SD 0.017) for the ionization chamber measurements vs. Eclipse. For 2D doses with gamma histogram, the mean value of the percentage of pixels passing the criteria of 3%, 3 mm was 94.4 (SD 5.3) for Eclipse vs. Corvus, 85.1 (SD 10.6) for Corvus vs. film, and 93.7 (SD 4.1) for Eclipse vs. film; and for the criteria of 5%, 3 mm, 98.7 (SD 1.5) for Eclipse vs. Corvus, 93.0 (SD 7.8) for Corvus vs. film, and 98.0 (SD 1.9) for Eclipse vs. film. We feel that the use of the Eclipse TPS as an independent, accurate, robust, and time-efficient method for patient-specific IMRT QA is feasible in clinic.}, }
@article {pmid19937424, year = {2010}, author = {Islam, MN and Zhu, XB and Aoyama, M and Sugita, S}, title = {Histological and morphometric analyses of seasonal testicular variations in the Jungle Crow (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Anatomical science international}, volume = {85}, number = {3}, pages = {121-129}, doi = {10.1007/s12565-009-0066-6}, pmid = {19937424}, issn = {1447-073X}, mesh = {Animals ; Biometry ; Crows/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Male ; *Seasons ; *Spermatogenesis ; Spermatozoa/growth &amp; development ; Testis/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; }, abstract = {A histological and morphometric study was conducted to examine the seasonal testicular variations in the Jungle Crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) of the Kanto area, Japan, from January to July. The paired testes mass, diameter and number of germ cells of the seminiferous tubules, and proportion of seminiferous tubule area and interstitium were examined. Hematoxylin and eosin-stained testis sections and ImageJ Software were used. Paired testes weight was found to increase by 55-fold from January to late March-early May, thereafter declining by 18-fold by June-July. Seminiferous tubule diameter increased fivefold from January to late March-early May, followed a fourfold decrease in June-July. The increase in testes weight correlated well with the increase in the diameter of the seminiferous tubule. In January, the seminiferous tubules constituted 56% of the testicular tissue and the interstitium 44%. During late March-early May, there was very little testicular interstitium (7.9%), and the seminiferous tubules were significantly enlarged (P < 0.05) (92%); this was followed by a gradual increase in the interstitial regression of testes. In January, the seminiferous epithelium contained a single layer of spermatogonia and Sertoli cells. The number of spermatogonia, primary and secondary spermatocytes, spermatids, and maturing spermatozoa were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in late March-early May, followed by regression from mid May. Our results indicate that the Jungle Crow has a non-breeding season in January, a pre-breeding season during February-mid March, a main breeding season during late March-early May, a transition period during mid May-late May, and a post-breeding season beginning in June.}, }
@article {pmid19937310, year = {2010}, author = {Ratnayake, CP and Goodale, E and Kotagama, SW}, title = {Two sympatric species of passerine birds imitate the same raptor calls in alarm contexts.}, journal = {Die Naturwissenschaften}, volume = {97}, number = {1}, pages = {103-108}, pmid = {19937310}, issn = {1432-1904}, mesh = {Animal Communication ; Animals ; Ecosystem ; Fear/physiology ; Humans ; Imitative Behavior/*physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Predatory Behavior ; Raptors/*physiology ; Species Specificity ; Sri Lanka ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {While some avian mimics appear to select sounds randomly, other species preferentially imitate sounds such as predator calls that are associated with danger. Previous work has shown that the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo (Dicrurus paradiseus) incorporates predator calls and heterospecific alarm calls into its own species-typical alarm vocalizations. Here, we show that another passerine species, the Sri Lanka Magpie (Urocissa ornata), which inhabits the same Sri Lankan rainforest, imitates three of the same predator calls that drongos do. For two of these call types, there is evidence that magpies also use them in alarm contexts. Our results support the hypothesis that imitated predator calls can serve as signals of alarm to multiple species.}, }
@article {pmid19933713, year = {2011}, author = {Spironelli, C and Angrilli, A and Calogero, A and Stegagno, L}, title = {Delta EEG band as a marker of left hypofrontality for language in schizophrenia patients.}, journal = {Schizophrenia bulletin}, volume = {37}, number = {4}, pages = {757-767}, pmid = {19933713}, issn = {1745-1701}, mesh = {Adult ; Biomarkers ; Brain Mapping ; *Delta Rhythm ; Dominance, Cerebral/*physiology ; *Electroencephalography ; Female ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; Judgment/physiology ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Phonetics ; Prefrontal Cortex/*physiopathology ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychometrics ; Reaction Time/physiology ; Schizophrenia/diagnosis/*physiopathology ; *Schizophrenic Language ; Semantics ; *Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted ; }, abstract = {Frontal hypoactivation has consistently been demonstrated in schizophrenia patients. We hypothesized that this well-known deficit is asymmetrical, ie, centered over left frontal locations and, in-line with Crow's theory, associated with both loss of linguistic asymmetry and correlated with positive symptoms. Electroencephalography delta band was used as a quantitative index of cortical inhibition in 17 paranoid schizophrenia patients with prevailing positive symptoms and 17 matched control subjects. Delta amplitude was measured by 38 electrodes, while participants performed 3 linguistic tasks, visuoperceptual, rhyming, and semantic judgment. Compared with control subjects, patients did not show overall delta band differences, revealing no detrimental effects of pharmacological treatment. In healthy participants, analysis of 4 quadrants/regions of interest revealed higher delta amplitude in right vs left anterior sites, indicating significant left anterior disinhibition during linguistic processing. Instead, patients showed bilateral delta band distribution and, compared with control subjects, significant greater delta amplitude (ie, brain inhibition) in linguistic left anterior centers. Patients' left hypofrontality was functionally related to their lack of hemispheric specialization for language and was positively correlated with higher levels of delusions (P1) and conceptual disorganization (P2) Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale subscales. Results suggest, in schizophrenia patients, a functional deficit of Broca's area, a region playing a fundamental hierarchical role between and within hemispheres by integrating many basic processes in linguistic and conceptual organization. The significant correlation between lack of anterior asymmetry and increased positive symptoms is in-line with Crow's hypothesis postulating the etiological role of disrupted linguistic frontal asymmetry on the onset of the key symptoms of schizophrenia.}, }
@article {pmid19931623, year = {2010}, author = {Bonaccorso, E and Peterson, AT and Navarro-Sigüenza, AG and Fleischer, RC}, title = {Molecular systematics and evolution of the Cyanocorax jays.}, journal = {Molecular phylogenetics and evolution}, volume = {54}, number = {3}, pages = {897-909}, doi = {10.1016/j.ympev.2009.11.014}, pmid = {19931623}, issn = {1095-9513}, mesh = {Animals ; Bayes Theorem ; Cell Nucleus/genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Likelihood Functions ; *Models, Genetic ; Passeriformes/*classification/genetics ; *Phylogeny ; Sequence Alignment ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Phylogenetic relationships were studied in the genus Cyanocorax (Aves: Corvidae) and related genera, Psilorhinus and Calocitta, a diverse group of New World jays distributed from the southern United States south to Argentina. Although the ecology and behavior of some species in the group have been studied extensively, lack of a molecular phylogeny has precluded rigorous interpretations in an evolutionary framework. Given the diverse combinations of plumage coloration, size, and morphology, the taxonomy of the group has been inconsistent and understanding of biogeographic patterns problematic. Moreover, plumage similarity between two geographically disjuct species, the Tufted jay (Cyanocorax dickeyi) from western Mexico and the White-tailed jay (C. mystacalis) from western Ecuador and Peru, has puzzled ornithologists for decades. Here, a phylogeny of all species in the three genera is presented, based on study of two mitochondrial and three nuclear genes. Phylogenetic trees revealed the non-monophyly of Cyanocorax, and the division of the whole assemblage in two groups: "Clade A" containing Psilorhinus morio, both species in Calocitta,Cyanocorax violaceus, C. caeruleus, C. cristatellus, and C. cyanomelas, and "Clade B" consisting of the remaining species in Cyanocorax. Relationships among species in Clade A were ambiguous and, in general, not well resolved. Within Clade B, analyses revealed the monophyly of the "Cissilopha" jays and showed no evidence for a sister relationship between C. mystacalis and C. dickeyi. The phylogenetic complexity of lineages in the group suggests several complications for the understanding biogeographic patterns, as well as for proposing a taxonomy that is consistent with morphological variation. Although multiple taxonomic arrangements are possible, recommendations are for recognizing only one genus, Cyanocorax, with Psilorhinus and Calocitta as synonyms.}, }
@article {pmid19929635, year = {2010}, author = {Townsend, AK and Clark, AB and McGowan, KJ}, title = {Direct benefits and genetic costs of extrapair paternity for female American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos).}, journal = {The American naturalist}, volume = {175}, number = {1}, pages = {E1-9}, doi = {10.1086/648553}, pmid = {19929635}, issn = {1537-5323}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/genetics/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Sexual Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The idea that extrapair paternity (EPP) in birds is part of a mixed reproductive strategy driven primarily by females is controversial. In cooperatively breeding American crows, we compared predictions of four female benefits hypotheses-the genetic diversity, good genes, genetic compatibility, and direct benefits hypotheses-to our predictions if EPP was primarily male driven. We found that genetically diverse broods were not more successful, extrapair young were not in better condition and did not have a higher survival probability, and, contrary to prediction, offspring sired by within-group extrapair males were more inbred than within-pair offspring. There was evidence of direct benefits, however: provisioning rate and number of surviving offspring were higher in groups containing within-group extrapair sires. Females therefore derived no apparent benefits from extragroup extrapair males but both direct benefits and genetic costs from within-group extrapair males. We suggest that males and females both influence the distribution of EPP in this system.}, }
@article {pmid19925354, year = {2009}, author = {van Daal, J and Verhoeven, L and van Balkom, H}, title = {Cognitive predictors of language development in children with specific language impairment (SLI).}, journal = {International journal of language &amp; communication disorders}, volume = {44}, number = {5}, pages = {639-655}, doi = {10.1080/13682820802276930}, pmid = {19925354}, issn = {1460-6984}, mesh = {Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Comprehension ; Female ; Humans ; Language Development Disorders/*diagnosis/psychology ; Language Tests ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term ; Models, Psychological ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Phonetics ; Semantics ; Speech Production Measurement/methods ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Language development is generally viewed as a multifactorial process. There are increasing indications that this similarly holds for the problematic language development process.<br><br>AIMS: A population of 97 young Dutch children with specific language impairment (SLI) was followed over a 2-year period to provide additional evidence for the existence of underlying language factors. Furthermore, the children's language development was related to their non-verbal intellectual reasoning capacity.<br><br>METHODS &amp; PROCEDURES: The language abilities were assessed via the administration of an extensive battery of language tests. Cognition was assessed via administration of the Raven progressive matrices, short-term memory capacity via administration of the Digit Span task.<br><br>OUTCOMES &amp; RESULTS: The results provide empirical support for distinct language factors for children with language problems. The detected factors were labelled: phonology, lexical-semantics, syntax, and speech production, and were found to be stable and interrelated. Short-term memory showed strong relations with the language factor syntax and medium relations with the other language factors. Intellectual capacity showed weak to medium relations with three language factors but no relation with the factor speech.<br><br>The language development of 5- and 6-year-old Dutch children with SLI appears to be divided into four language factors. The language factors are very stable in this sample and correspond with language factors found in recent studies on language development in children with SLI. Short-term auditory memory turns out to play an important role in the problematic language acquisition of children with SLI. It is recommended that children with SLI should be assessed on possible deficits in information processing and/or short-term memory. The existence of such deficits calls for specific neuropsychological intervention.}, }
@article {pmid19922442, year = {2010}, author = {McCormack, JE and Zellmer, AJ and Knowles, LL}, title = {Does niche divergence accompany allopatric divergence in Aphelocoma jays as predicted under ecological speciation? Insights from tests with niche models.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {64}, number = {5}, pages = {1231-1244}, doi = {10.1111/j.1558-5646.2009.00900.x}, pmid = {19922442}, issn = {1558-5646}, mesh = {Animals ; *Ecology ; *Models, Biological ; Passeriformes/classification/*genetics ; }, abstract = {The role of ecology in the origin of species has been the subject of long-standing interest to evolutionary biologists. New sources of spatially explicit ecological data allow for large-scale tests of whether speciation is associated with niche divergence or whether closely related species tend to be similar ecologically (niche conservatism). Because of the confounding effects of spatial autocorrelation of environmental variables, we generate null expectations for niche divergence for both an ecological-niche modeling and a multivariate approach to address the question: do allopatrically distributed taxa occupy similar niches? In a classic system for the study of niche evolution--the Aphelocoma jays--we show that there is little evidence for niche divergence among Mexican Jay (A. ultramarina) lineages in the process of speciation, contrary to previous results. In contrast, Aphelocoma species that exist in partial sympatry in some regions show evidence for niche divergence. Our approach is widely applicable to the many cases of allopatric lineages in the beginning stages of speciation. These results do not support an ecological speciation model for Mexican Jay lineages because, in most cases, the allopatric environments they occupy are not significantly more divergent than expected under a null model.}, }
@article {pmid19917211, year = {2009}, author = {Reichelt, KL and Knivsberg, AM}, title = {The possibility and probability of a gut-to-brain connection in autism.}, journal = {Annals of clinical psychiatry : official journal of the American Academy of Clinical Psychiatrists}, volume = {21}, number = {4}, pages = {205-211}, pmid = {19917211}, issn = {1547-3325}, mesh = {Autistic Disorder/*diet therapy/*physiopathology/urine ; Caseins ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Diet, Gluten-Free ; Diet, Protein-Restricted ; Humans ; Peptides/*urine ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: We have shown that urine peptide increase is found in autism, and that some of these peptides have a dietary origin. To be explanatory for the disease process, a dietary effect on the brain must be shown to be possible and probable.<br><br>METHODS: Diagnosis was based on DSM-III and DSM-IV criteria. We ran first morning urine samples equivalent to 250 nm creatinine on high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) reversed phase C18 columns using trifluoroacetic acid acetonitrile gradients. The elution patterns were registered using 215 nm absorption for largely peptide bonds, 280 nm for aromatic groups, and 325 nm for indolyl components. We referred to a series of published ability tests, including Raven's Progressive Matrices and the Illinois Test of Psycholinguistic Ability, which were administered before and after dietary intervention. The literature was also reviewed to find evidence of a gut-to-brain connection.<br><br>RESULTS: In autistic syndromes, we can show marked increases in UV 215-absorbing material eluting after hippuric acid that are mostly peptides. We also show highly significant decreases after introducing a gluten- and casein-free diet with a duration of more than 1 year. We refer to previously published studies showing improvement in children on this diet who were followed for 4 years and a pairwise matched, randomly assigned study with highly significant changes. The literature shows abundant data pointing to the importance of a gut-to-brain connection.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: An effect of diet on excreted compounds and behavior has been found. A gut-to-brain axis is both possible and probable.}, }
@article {pmid19913421, year = {2009}, author = {von Bayern, AM and Heathcote, RJ and Rutz, C and Kacelnik, A}, title = {The role of experience in problem solving and innovative tool use in crows.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {19}, number = {22}, pages = {1965-1968}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2009.10.037}, pmid = {19913421}, issn = {1879-0445}, support = {BB/C517392/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/G023913/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Crows/*physiology ; *Problem Solving ; Task Performance and Analysis ; }, abstract = {Creative problem solving and innovative tool use in animals are often seen as indicators of advanced intelligence because they seem to imply causal reasoning abilities [1]. However, complex behavior can also arise from relatively simple mechanisms [2, 3], and the cognitive operations underlying seemingly "insightful" behavior are rarely examined [4]. By controlling and varying prior experience, it is possible to determine the minimum information animals require to solve a given problem [5]. We investigated how pretesting experience affects the performance of New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides) when facing a novel problem. The task (developed by Bird and Emery [6]) required dropping stones into a vertical tube to collapse an out-of-reach platform in a transparent box and release a food reward. After establishing that the birds had no preexisting tendency to drop stones into holes, subjects were assigned to two experimental groups that were given different kinds of experience with the affordances of the apparatus. Crows that had learned about the mechanism (collapsibility) of the platform without the use of stones passed the task, just like the subjects that had previously been trained to drop stones. This demonstrates that successful innovation was also possible after acquaintance with just the functional properties of the task.}, }
@article {pmid19888338, year = {2009}, author = {Szanton, SL and Johnson, B and Thorpe, RJ and Whitfield, K}, title = {Education in time: cohort differences in educational attainment in African-American twins.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {4}, number = {10}, pages = {e7664}, pmid = {19888338}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {R01 AG013662/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; 1KL2RR025006-01/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; P30 NR008995/NR/NINR NIH HHS/United States ; KL2 RR025006/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; 1R01-AG13662-01A2/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Black or African American/genetics ; Aged ; Cohort Studies ; *Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Social Class ; Social Environment ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Twins/genetics ; Twins, Dizygotic/genetics ; Twins, Monozygotic/genetics ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Educational opportunities for African-Americans expanded throughout the 20(th) century. Twin pairs are an informative population in which to examine changes in educational attainment because each twin has the same parents and childhood socioeconomic status. We hypothesized that correlation in educational attainment of older twin pairs would be higher compared to younger twin pairs reflecting changes in educational access over time and potentially reflecting a "ceiling effect" associated with Jim Crow laws and discrimination.<br><br>We used data from 211 same-sex twin pairs (98 identical, 113 fraternal) in the Carolina African-American Twin Study of Aging who were identified through birth records. Participants completed an in-person interview. The twins were predominantly female (61%), with a mean age of 50 years (SD = 0.5). We found that older age groups had a stronger intra-twin correlation of attained educational level. Further analysis across strata revealed a trend across zygosity, with identical twins demonstrating more similar educational attainment levels than did their fraternal twin counterparts, suggesting a genetic influence.<br><br>DISCUSSION: These findings suggest that as educational opportunities broadened in the 20th century, African-Americans gained access to educational opportunities that better matched their individual abilities.}, }
@article {pmid19888292, year = {2010}, author = {Li, MH and Merilä, J}, title = {Extensive linkage disequilibrium in a wild bird population.}, journal = {Heredity}, volume = {104}, number = {6}, pages = {600-610}, doi = {10.1038/hdy.2009.150}, pmid = {19888292}, issn = {1365-2540}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/genetics ; *Linkage Disequilibrium ; Male ; Microsatellite Repeats ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Pedigree ; }, abstract = {Knowledge about the extent and patterns of linkage disequilibrium (LD) can provide important insights into demographic processes and strategies to identify the genetic basis of complex phenotypes in wild populations. However, data on the extent and patterns of LD from non-model vertebrate species from the wild are still scarce. We conducted so far the most extensive and detailed examination of LD in a pedigreed wild bird population using genotypes from 97 autosomal and 6 gonosomal microsatellites and a recently established linkage map of Siberian jays (Perisoreus infaustus). Analysis of syntenic marker pairs showed high levels of LD that extended over tens of centimorgans or several megabases and generally decayed as an increasing function of intermarker distance. In addition, significant LD was also very common between nonsyntenic markers. Patterns of LD varied across different linkage groups possibly because of the differences in chromosomal structure (macro-, micro-, and Z-chromosome). In particular, the level of LD was significantly lower on the Z-chromosome than on the autosomes at comparable genetic distances. In general, the high levels and extent of LD in this population are likely owing to its relatively small size, significant intrapopulation genetic structure, and occurrence of inbreeding. Whatever the cause, the long-range LD between syntenic loci suggests that LD mapping of phenotypic traits in this population using low-density markers maps is feasible. However, the frequent occurrence of LD between nonsyntenic markers suggests that the combined use of linkage and LD methods is needed to reduce the likelihood of false-positive associations between marker loci and traits of ecological and evolutionary interest.}, }
@article {pmid19879277, year = {2010}, author = {Rensel, MA and Wilcoxen, TE and Schoech, SJ}, title = {The influence of nest attendance and provisioning on nestling stress physiology in the Florida scrub-jay.}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {57}, number = {2}, pages = {162-168}, doi = {10.1016/j.yhbeh.2009.10.009}, pmid = {19879277}, issn = {1095-6867}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Corticosterone/*blood ; Female ; Linear Models ; Maternal Behavior/*physiology ; Nesting Behavior/*physiology ; Passeriformes/*blood/*physiology ; Radioimmunoassay ; Stress, Psychological/*blood ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Stressful conditions during development may have lasting consequences for an animal's lifetime fitness. We investigated the degree to which parental provisioning and nest attendance influenced baseline levels of the stress hormone corticosterone in nestling Florida scrub-jays. Provisioning rates of male and female breeders and nest attendance of female breeders were recorded during focal watches conducted between days 3 and 5 post-hatch. A small blood sample was taken from each nestling on day 11 post-hatch and used to quantify levels of baseline corticosterone. The proportion of time spent by female breeders at a considerable distance from the nest was positively related to nestling corticosterone levels. Nestling corticosterone was also negatively related to parental provisioning rate, although this effect seemed to be secondary to the effect of the female's time away from the nest. These results indicate that parental behavior contributes to nestling stress physiology, which may in turn direct the formation of the adult phenotype and influence an individual's chances of survival.}, }
@article {pmid19877837, year = {2009}, author = {Wang, R and Sun, Y and Zhang, X and Zeng, S and Xie, W and Yu, Y and Zhang, X and Zuo, M}, title = {Song control nuclei in male and female large-billed crows (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Zoological science}, volume = {26}, number = {11}, pages = {771-777}, doi = {10.2108/zsj.26.771}, pmid = {19877837}, issn = {0289-0003}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; *Sex Characteristics ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {We show that the learned vocalizations of male and female large-billed crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) are similar and that their functions and physical features show significant differences from those of other oscine species. We investigate whether the song control nuclei of crows show any sexual differences in size, reflecting differences in their singing behavior, and whether these nuclei are different from those of other songbirds in terms of neural connectivity size and relative to the forebrain. Our Nissl staining results reveal that 1) of the four song nuclei examined (HVC; the robust nucleus of the arcopallium [RA]; Area X; and the dorsolateral medial nucleus [DLM]), HVC, RA, and Area X volumes are significantly larger in males than in females, but DLM volume and body and brain weights show no significant gender differences; and 2) the sizes of song nuclei relative to the forebrain are within the range of other oscines. By injecting a neural tract tracer (DiI) into various song nuclei in brain slices, we found that, as in other songbirds, HVC projects to RA and Area X, while Area X projects to the lateral magnocellular nucleus of the anterior nidopallium (IMAN) and DLM, DLM to IMAN, and IMAN to RA. Our results Indicate that, although the crow has songs very different from those of other oscine species, Its song nuclei and the connections between them are not obviously different.}, }
@article {pmid21665835, year = {2009}, author = {Schoech, SJ}, title = {Food supplementation experiments: A tool to reveal mechanisms that mediate timing of reproduction.}, journal = {Integrative and comparative biology}, volume = {49}, number = {5}, pages = {480-492}, doi = {10.1093/icb/icp005}, pmid = {21665835}, issn = {1557-7023}, abstract = {Food supplementation of free-living animals has been used to address the role of availability of resources in the timing of reproduction. A meta-analysis by Schoech and Hahn suggested that responsiveness of the reproductive axis to the supplementary cue of food is lessened at higher latitudes, presumably because the brief time during which conditions are appropriate to rear offspring has led to an evolved resistance to supplementary cues with a primary reliance on photoperiod. Unfortunately, few investigators have examined the potential underlying mechanisms that mediate this differential responsiveness to supplemental food across latitudes. Considerable research, however, links nutritional state and plasma glucocorticoid levels, both of which impinge upon the reproductive axis. Long-term research on Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) in my laboratory shows that suburban birds with access to ad libitum supplemental food express early breeding and lower plasma corticosterone (CORT) levels in comparison to jays in nearby natural habitat. Furthermore, supplementation in natural habitat advances laying, with the largest effects occurring in bad years (i.e., years defined by late breeding and poor reproductive output by non-supplemented controls). Similarly, reproductive output of supplemented jays is greater and exhibits considerably less variance than do controls, suggesting fitness benefits of supplementation that are tied to advanced breeding. Generally, CORT levels in early-breeding supplemented jays are lower than are those of controls. Also, regression analysis suggests that clutch-initiation dates of non-supplemented female breeders are predicted by baseline CORT levels. Although these data are not conclusive and trends can be obscured by year-effects, they suggest a role for CORT in timing of breeding. Whether this link might help to explain the above-referenced latitudinal trends remains to be characterized.}, }
@article {pmid21564946, year = {2009}, author = {Martín-Gálvez, D and Dawson, DA and Horsburgh, GJ and Burke, T}, title = {Isolation, characterization and chromosome locations of polymorphic black-billed magpie Pica pica (Corvidae, AVES) microsatellite loci.}, journal = {Molecular ecology resources}, volume = {9}, number = {6}, pages = {1506-1512}, doi = {10.1111/j.1755-0998.2009.02703.x}, pmid = {21564946}, issn = {1755-0998}, abstract = {One-hundred and two unique loci were isolated from a microsatellite-enriched black-billed magpie Pica pica genomic library. Sixteen of these new loci, along with 148 existing microsatellite passerine loci, were tested for polymorphism in four unrelated black-billed magpies. We identified a total of 43 unique polymorphic loci (10 and 33 respectively) that we characterized in 24 unrelated individuals from a population in Guadix, Spain. The putative chromosomal locations of loci polymorphic in black-billed magpie were assigned based on the location of their orthologues in the assembled zebra finch and chicken genomes.}, }
@article {pmid19863172, year = {2009}, author = {Dun, XY and Zhou, F and Xi, H and Yuan, ZG and Hou, J}, title = {Thyroid function and its clinical significance in POEMS syndrome.}, journal = {Leukemia &amp; lymphoma}, volume = {50}, number = {12}, pages = {2013-2016}, doi = {10.3109/10428190903324236}, pmid = {19863172}, issn = {1029-2403}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay ; Female ; Humans ; Hypothyroidism/complications/*drug therapy ; Male ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/complications/*drug therapy ; Thyroid Function Tests ; Thyroxine/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Treatment Outcome ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/blood ; }, abstract = {POEMS syndrome, also known as Crow-Fukase syndrome, represents a rare multisystem syndrome characterized by polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M protein, and skin changes. Hypothyroidism is one of the common endocrine abnormalities which are central features of POEMS syndrome. The clinical data associated with the measurement of thyroid function and its clinical significance in POEMS syndrome is still rare. Herein, we report 24 cases with POEMS syndrome which were studied thyroid function and clinical manifestations and performed an associated analysis between hypothyroidism and edema/effusions. Of the 24 patients with POEMS syndrome, 17(70.8%) had a recognized hypothyroidism (including 11 clinical hypothyroidism and 6 subclinical hypothyroidism). Fourteen patients (58.3%) had some form of extravascular volume overload. In 14 patients with edema/effusions, 12 were diagnosed as having hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism may be one of causes of edema/effusions. After thyroid hormone treatment and chemotherapy, symptoms of hypothyroidism and edema /effusions were improved greatly.}, }
@article {pmid19853407, year = {2010}, author = {Facon, B and Nuchadee, ML}, title = {An item analysis of Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices among participants with Down syndrome.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {31}, number = {1}, pages = {243-249}, doi = {10.1016/j.ridd.2009.09.011}, pmid = {19853407}, issn = {1873-3379}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; *Color Perception ; Down Syndrome/*diagnosis/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*diagnosis/psychology ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Perceptual Closure ; *Problem Solving ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {Standardized tests are widely used in intellectual disability research, either as dependent or control variables. Yet, it is not certain that their items give rise to the same performance in various groups under study. In the present work, 48 participants with Down syndrome were matched on their raw score on Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) with 48 participants with intellectual disability of undifferentiated etiology and 48 typical children. An item analysis was then conducted using the transformed item difficulties method, a statistical approach designed to detect differential item functioning between groups. Results showed that the difficulty of items was highly similar for the three groups. It is concluded that RCPM can be used with considerable confidence in comparative studies including typical, Down syndrome and intellectually disabled participants of undifferentiated etiology. Some methodological implications of these findings are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid19852856, year = {2009}, author = {Stieler, F and Wolff, D and Lohr, F and Steil, V and Abo-Madyan, Y and Lorenz, F and Wenz, F and Mai, S}, title = {A fast radiotherapy paradigm for anal cancer with volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT).}, journal = {Radiation oncology (London, England)}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {48}, pmid = {19852856}, issn = {1748-717X}, mesh = {Anus Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Humans ; Male ; Radiotherapy/*methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Radiotherapy (RT) volumes for anal cancer are large and of moderate complexity when organs at risk (OAR) such as testis, small bowel and bladder are at least partially to be shielded. Volumetric intensity modulated arc therapy (VMAT) might provide OAR-shielding comparable to step-and-shoot intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for this tumor entity with better treatment efficiency.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Based on treatment planning CTs of 8 patients, we compared dose distributions, comformality index (CI), homogeneity index (HI), number of monitor units (MU) and treatment time (TTT) for plans generated for VMAT, 3D-CRT and step-and-shoot-IMRT (optimized based on Pencil Beam (PB) or Monte Carlo (MC) dose calculation) for typical anal cancer planning target volumes (PTV) including inguinal lymph nodes as usually treated during the first phase (0-36 Gy) of a shrinking field regimen.<br><br>RESULTS: With values of 1.33 +/- 0.21/1.26 +/- 0.05/1.3 +/- 0.02 and 1.39 +/- 0.09, the CI's for IMRT (PB-Corvus/PB-Hyperion/MC-Hyperion) and VMAT are better than for 3D-CRT with 2.00 +/- 0.16. The HI's for the prescribed dose (HI36) for 3D-CRT were 1.06 +/- 0.01 and 1.11 +/- 0.02 for VMAT, respectively and 1.15 +/- 0.02/1.10 +/- 0.02/1.11 +/- 0.08 for IMRT (PB-Corvus/PB-Hyperion/MC-Hyperion). Mean TTT and MU's for 3D-CRT is 220s/225 +/- 11MU and for IMRT (PB-Corvus/PB-Hyperion/MC-Hyperion) is 575s/1260 +/- 172MU, 570s/477 +/- 84MU and 610s748 +/- 193MU while TTT and MU for two-arc-VMAT is 290s/268 +/- 19MU.<br><br>CONCLUSION: VMAT provides treatment plans with high conformity and homogeneity equivalent to step-and-shoot-IMRT for this mono-concave treatment volume. Short treatment delivery time and low primary MU are the most important advantages.}, }
@article {pmid19836615, year = {2009}, author = {Colombo, M and Vaccaro, R and Vitali, SF and Malnati, M and Guaita, A}, title = {Clock drawing interpretation scale (CDIS) and neuro-psychological functions in older adults with mild and moderate cognitive impairments.}, journal = {Archives of gerontology and geriatrics}, volume = {49 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {39-48}, doi = {10.1016/j.archger.2009.09.011}, pmid = {19836615}, issn = {1872-6976}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/psychology ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Geriatric Assessment ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; *Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {The clock drawing test (CDT) is an easy to apply, well accepted and reliable test that is widely used to screen for visuo-constructional difficulties in the aged people. Yet, besides visual agnosia and constructional apraxia, executive control influences performances in this task. Execution modalities and rating schemes vary widely, as for the way stimuli are proposed, the time to which the clock is set, and the elements that are considered for scoring. The scoring system we have selected is called clock drawing interpretation scale (CDIS) contains 20 items in 3 areas: visuo-perceptual, attentional and numerical factors. Our aim is to know the meanings of the CDIS total and sub-areas score, investigating the relationships with specific neuropsychological tests, in elderly persons with moderate cognitive impairment. CDIS has been administered to 90 people, aged about 75 years, attending our rehabilitative day hospital or our memory clinic. A neuropsychological battery has been administered to a sample of 47 outpatients, selected by contingence. Respective mean MMSE for the 2 samples are 24 and 25.1 (adjusted for age and education). The score method shows good internal consistency, with Cronbach's a about 0.75, either for total score or for the 3 sub-scores. Both total score and all sub-scores share correlations with mini mental state examination (MMSE), geriatric depression scale (GDS 5-item form), digit-symbol test, phonetic fluency and constructional apraxia tests. Total score and Group A (visuo-perceptive items) correlate also with cancellation attentional matrices, trail making test A and B, Corsi's cubes and Raven's colored matrices. Group B (attention items) and Group C (numerical factors) lack some of these correlations (Pearson correlation coefficients between 0.264 and 0.629). Neither CDIS total score nor sub-scores (except for numerical factors) correlate with verbal learning and memory. CDIS total cores correlates also with the level of education (r=0.418; p=0.001), but not with age. In conclusion, the clock drawing test, scored by the 20-item CDIS, looks as a homogeneous and analytic test, which is focused on visuo-perceptive and executive skills, while it disregards verbal learning and memory, in elderly people with moderate cognitive impairment. Its 3-item groups show good internal consistency; they also plausibly correlate to specific neuropsychological tests. The almost overlapping results of total and visuo-perceptual sub-score come from the way the test is performed and evaluated. The correlation between CDIS and GDS confirms the relevance of mood towards executive functions.}, }
@article {pmid19848089, year = {2009}, author = {Reed, LM and Johansson, MA and Panella, N and McLean, R and Creekmore, T and Puelle, R and Komar, N}, title = {Declining mortality in American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) following natural West Nile virus infection.}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {53}, number = {3}, pages = {458-461}, doi = {10.1637/8468-091208-ResNote.1}, pmid = {19848089}, issn = {0005-2086}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; *Crows ; Models, Biological ; New Jersey/epidemiology ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/mortality/*veterinary ; West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {The American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) is known to suffer 100% mortality from infection with the New York 1999 strain of West Nile virus (WNV). Following the initial detection of WNV in North America in 1999, we measured prevalence of WNV-reactive antibodies ("seroprevalence") in free-ranging American and fish crows (Corvus ossifragus) of central New Jersey after each transmission season through 2005. In 2002, seroprevalence in American crow juveniles increased to 14% from the 5% of the previous year, potentially indicating increased survival in this species. Using the annual seroprevalence measurements and the number of human West Nile neuroinvasive disease cases as a surrogate for WNV transmission intensity, we developed a model to estimate the annual WNV-associated mortality rates among both of these crow species. Our model supports the hypothesis that mortality is changing over time; the WNV-associated mortality rate declined over time by 1.5% for American crow and by 1.1% for fish crow. The probability that the trend in mortality was negative was 90% for the American crow and 60% for the fish crow.}, }
@article {pmid19840174, year = {2010}, author = {Nystrand, M and Griesser, M and Eggers, S and Ekman, J}, title = {Habitat-specific demography and source-sink dynamics in a population of Siberian jays.}, journal = {The Journal of animal ecology}, volume = {79}, number = {1}, pages = {266-274}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2656.2009.01627.x}, pmid = {19840174}, issn = {1365-2656}, mesh = {Animals ; *Ecosystem ; Energy Metabolism/*physiology ; Environment ; Female ; Male ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Population Dynamics ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {1. There are a number of models describing population structure, many of which have the capacity to incorporate spatial habitat effects. One such model is the source-sink model, that describes a system where some habitats have a natality that is higher than mortality (source) and others have a mortality that exceeds natality (sink). A source can be maintained in the absence of migration, whereas a sink will go extinct. 2. However, the interaction between population dynamics and habitat quality is complex, and concerns have been raised about the validity of published empirical studies addressing source-sink dynamics. In particular, some of these studies fail to provide data on survival, a significant component in disentangling a sink from a low quality source. Moreover, failing to account for a density-dependent increase in mortality, or decrease in fecundity, can result in a territory being falsely assigned as a sink, when in fact, this density-dependent suppression only decreases the population size to a lower level, hence indicating a 'pseudo-sink'. 3. In this study, we investigate a long-term data set for key components of territory-specific demography (mortality and reproduction) and their relationship to habitat characteristics in the territorial, group-living Siberian jay (Perisoreus infaustus). We also assess territory-specific population growth rates (r), to test whether spatial population dynamics are consistent with the ideas of source-sink dynamics. 4. Although average mortality did not differ between sexes, habitat-specific mortality did. Female mortality was higher in older forests, a pattern not observed in males. Male mortality only increased with an increasing amount of open areas. Moreover, reproductive success was higher further away from human settlement, indicating a strong effect of human-associated nest predators. 5. Averaged over all years, 76% of the territories were sources. These territories generally consisted of less open areas, and were located further away from human settlement. 6. The source-sink model provides a tool for modelling demography in distinct habitat patches of different quality, which can aid in identifying key habitats within the landscape, and thus, reduce the risk of implementing unsound management decisions.}, }
@article {pmid19833456, year = {2010}, author = {Kim, MC and Jeong, OM and Kang, HM and Paek, MR and Kwon, JS and Song, CS and Kwon, YK and Lee, JG and Kwon, JH and Lee, YJ}, title = {Pathogenicity and transmission studies of H7N7 avian influenza virus isolated from feces of magpie origin in chickens and magpie.}, journal = {Veterinary microbiology}, volume = {141}, number = {3-4}, pages = {268-274}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2009.09.027}, pmid = {19833456}, issn = {1873-2542}, mesh = {Animals ; Chickens ; Feces/*virology ; Influenza A Virus, H7N7 Subtype/isolation &amp; purification/*pathogenicity ; Influenza in Birds/*transmission/*virology ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Passeriformes/*virology ; Phylogeny ; Republic of Korea ; Time Factors ; Virus Replication/physiology ; }, abstract = {An H7N7 avian influenza virus [A/Magpie/Kr/YJD174/07 (H7N7); Mp/Kr/07 virus] was isolated from magpie feces in the north-western area (Youngjongdo) of South Korea and identified as low pathogenicity by intravenous pathogenic index and amino acid sequence of cleavage site. In genetic analysis, the genome of the Mp/Kr/07 virus was the same as those of two other H7N7 viruses isolated from the Mallard ducks in Ganghwa, 5 km north of Youngjongdo, and grouped under the H7-subtype Eurasian linage with the highest similarity to recent two domestic duck isolates in South Korea. In vivo studies of the chickens and magpies, the Mp/Kr/07 virus, though did not caused any clinical signs with histological changes, could replicate in the oropharynx and cloaca of the chickens and was efficiently transmitted to contact chickens. However, the virus was restrictively identified in oropharynx of the magpies and was not spread to magpies by direct contact. These results suggest that magpie are not a biological amplifier of influenza virus and thus play a minimal role in virus transmission as intermediate host.}, }
@article {pmid19812083, year = {2010}, author = {Bird, CD and Emery, NJ}, title = {Rooks perceive support relations similar to six-month-old babies.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {277}, number = {1678}, pages = {147-151}, pmid = {19812083}, issn = {1471-2954}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; *Photic Stimulation ; Random Allocation ; Videotape Recording ; }, abstract = {Some corvids have demonstrated cognitive abilities that rival or exceed those of the great apes; for example, tool use in New Caledonian crows, and social cognition, episodic-like memory and future planning in Western scrub-jays. Rooks appear to be able to solve novel tasks through causal reasoning rather than simple trial-and-error learning. Animals with certain expectations about how objects interact would be able to narrow the field of candidate causes substantially, because some causes are simply 'impossible'. Here we present evidence that rooks hold such expectations and appear to possess perceptual understanding of support relations similar to that demonstrated by human babies, which is more comprehensive than that of chimpanzees.}, }
@article {pmid19811623, year = {2009}, author = {Ludwig, A and Bigras-Poulin, M and Michel, P}, title = {The analysis of crow population dynamics as a surveillance tool.}, journal = {Transboundary and emerging diseases}, volume = {56}, number = {9-10}, pages = {337-345}, doi = {10.1111/j.1865-1682.2009.01090.x}, pmid = {19811623}, issn = {1865-1682}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Disease Reservoirs/veterinary ; Population Dynamics ; Population Surveillance ; Quebec/epidemiology ; Rural Population ; Time Factors ; Urban Population ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) infection, a zoonotic disease for which birds act as a reservoir, first appeared in North America in August 1999. It was first reported in Quebec in 2002. The Quebec surveillance system for WNV has several components, including the surveillance of mortality in corvid populations, which includes the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos). The main objectives of this study are to better understand the population dynamics of this species in Quebec and to evaluate the impact of WNV on these dynamics. We obtained observation data for living crows in this province for the period of 1990-2005 and then conducted a spectral analysis of these data. To study changes in crow population dynamics, the analysis was carried out before and after the appearance of WNV and space was divided in two different areas (urban and non-urban). Our results show the importance of cycles with periods of less than 1 year in non-urban areas and cycles with periods of greater than 1 year in urban areas in the normal population dynamics of the species. We obtained expected fluctuations in bird densities using an algorithm derived from spectral decomposition. When we compared these predictions with data observed after 2002, we found marked perturbations in population dynamics beginning in 2003 and lasting up to 2005. In the discussion, we present various hypotheses based on the behaviour of the American crow to explain the normal population dynamics observed in this species and the effect of type of area (urban versus non-urban). We also discuss how the predictive algorithm could be used as a disease surveillance tool and as a measure of the impact of a disease on wild fauna.}, }
@article {pmid19805160, year = {2009}, author = {Agrawal, AA and Fishbein, M and Halitschke, R and Hastings, AP and Rabosky, DL and Rasmann, S}, title = {Evidence for adaptive radiation from a phylogenetic study of plant defenses.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {106}, number = {43}, pages = {18067-18072}, pmid = {19805160}, issn = {1091-6490}, mesh = {Asclepias/*genetics ; Genetic Speciation ; Multifactorial Inheritance ; *Phylogeny ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {One signature of adaptive radiation is a high level of trait change early during the diversification process and a plateau toward the end of the radiation. Although the study of the tempo of evolution has historically been the domain of paleontologists, recently developed phylogenetic tools allow for the rigorous examination of trait evolution in a tremendous diversity of organisms. Enemy-driven adaptive radiation was a key prediction of Ehrlich and Raven's coevolutionary hypothesis [Ehrlich PR, Raven PH (1964) Evolution 18:586-608], yet has remained largely untested. Here we examine patterns of trait evolution in 51 North American milkweed species (Asclepias), using maximum likelihood methods. We study 7 traits of the milkweeds, ranging from seed size and foliar physiological traits to defense traits (cardenolides, latex, and trichomes) previously shown to impact herbivores, including the monarch butterfly. We compare the fit of simple random-walk models of trait evolution to models that incorporate stabilizing selection (Ornstein-Ulenbeck process), as well as time-varying rates of trait evolution. Early bursts of trait evolution were implicated for 2 traits, while stabilizing selection was implicated for several others. We further modeled the relationship between trait change and species diversification while allowing rates of trait evolution to vary during the radiation. Species-rich lineages underwent a proportionately greater decline in latex and cardenolides relative to species-poor lineages, and the rate of trait change was most rapid early in the radiation. An interpretation of this result is that reduced investment in defensive traits accelerated diversification, and disproportionately so, early in the adaptive radiation of milkweeds.}, }
@article {pmid19796399, year = {2009}, author = {McCusker, JP and Phillips, JA and González Beltrán, A and Finkelstein, A and Krauthammer, M}, title = {Semantic web data warehousing for caGrid.}, journal = {BMC bioinformatics}, volume = {10 Suppl 10}, number = {Suppl 10}, pages = {S2}, pmid = {19796399}, issn = {1471-2105}, mesh = {Biomarkers, Tumor/chemistry ; Computational Biology/*methods ; Databases, Protein ; Humans ; Information Storage and Retrieval/*methods ; *Internet ; Neoplasm Proteins/chemistry ; Neoplasms/*metabolism ; Semantics ; User-Computer Interface ; }, abstract = {The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is developing caGrid as a means for sharing cancer-related data and services. As more data sets become available on caGrid, we need effective ways of accessing and integrating this information. Although the data models exposed on caGrid are semantically well annotated, it is currently up to the caGrid client to infer relationships between the different models and their classes. In this paper, we present a Semantic Web-based data warehouse (Corvus) for creating relationships among caGrid models. This is accomplished through the transformation of semantically-annotated caBIG Unified Modeling Language (UML) information models into Web Ontology Language (OWL) ontologies that preserve those semantics. We demonstrate the validity of the approach by Semantic Extraction, Transformation and Loading (SETL) of data from two caGrid data sources, caTissue and caArray, as well as alignment and query of those sources in Corvus. We argue that semantic integration is necessary for integration of data from distributed web services and that Corvus is a useful way of accomplishing this. Our approach is generalizable and of broad utility to researchers facing similar integration challenges.}, }
@article {pmid19801912, year = {2009}, author = {Lee, E and Tanaka, H and Wakamatsu, K and Sugita, S}, title = {Melanin-based iridescent feather color in the Jungle Crow.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {71}, number = {9}, pages = {1261-1263}, doi = {10.1292/jvms.71.1261}, pmid = {19801912}, issn = {0916-7250}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Feathers/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Melanins/*physiology ; Pigments, Biological/*physiology ; Sex Characteristics ; }, abstract = {Sexual differences in Japanese Jungle Crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) are not obvious because both sexes have black plumage. However, closer examination reveals that their plumage color is not only black; it is also iridescent color. Furthermore, the iridescence is more pronounced in adult males than that in females. The iridescence seems to be related to the density and concentration of melanin granules. The density of melanin granule and the concentration of eumelanin in feathers were significantly higher in males than that in females (P<0.01). However, the amount of pheomelanin was below the detection limits in this study.}, }
@article {pmid19796368, year = {2009}, author = {Yamazaki, K}, title = {Crows break off live camphor twigs: an avian disturbance effect on plants.}, journal = {Plant biology (Stuttgart, Germany)}, volume = {11}, number = {6}, pages = {907-910}, doi = {10.1111/j.1438-8677.2009.00218.x}, pmid = {19796368}, issn = {1435-8603}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Biological Evolution ; Cinnamomum camphora/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Japan ; }, abstract = {Birds are usually considered beneficial partners for plants, acting as predators on herbivorous insects, pollinators and seed dispersal agents. However, in an urban area of central Japan, birds break off large quantities of live camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora) twigs in winter. This loss of vegetative parts was examined quantitatively to estimate the impact on the trees. I also observed bird foraging behaviour to determine the species involved and the possible reasons underlying this destructive activity. Broken twigs on the forest floor were found to have numerous leaves and spring buds. The densities of leaves and buds in the litter were 288.5 and 54.4 m(-2), respectively. The jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) may have broken off the twigs either to peck the fruits while perching on stable branches, or possibly to remove twigs obstructing access to fruit. In contrast, brown-eared bulbuls (Hypsipetes amaurotis), oriental turtle doves (Streptopelia orientalis) and rove doves (Columba livia) ate fruits without breaking twigs. The interaction between C. camphora and C. macrorhynchos only extends back for about 20 years in urban Japan, indicating that this is unlikely to be a stable, co-evolved relationship.}, }
@article {pmid19784852, year = {2010}, author = {Martin-Ordas, G and Haun, D and Colmenares, F and Call, J}, title = {Keeping track of time: evidence for episodic-like memory in great apes.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {331-340}, pmid = {19784852}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior/psychology ; Female ; Food Preferences/psychology ; Hominidae/*psychology ; Male ; *Mental Recall ; Pan paniscus/psychology ; Pan troglodytes/psychology ; Pongo pygmaeus/psychology ; Time Factors ; *Time Perception ; }, abstract = {Episodic memory, as defined by Tulving, can be described in terms of behavioural elements (what, where and when information) but it is also accompanied by an awareness of one's past (chronesthesia) and a subjective conscious experience (autonoetic awareness). Recent experiments have shown that corvids and rodents recall the where, what and when of an event. This capability has been called episodic-like memory because it only fulfils the behavioural criteria for episodic memory. We tested seven chimpanzees, three orangutans and two bonobos of various ages by adapting two paradigms, originally developed by Clayton and colleagues to test scrub jays. In Experiment 1, subjects were fed preferred but perishable food (frozen juice) and less preferred but non-perishable food (grape). After the food items were hidden, subjects could choose one of them either after 5 min or 1 h. The frozen juice was still available after 5 min but melted after 1 h and became unobtainable. Apes chose the frozen juice significantly more after 5 min and the grape after 1 h. In Experiment 2, subjects faced two baiting events happening at different times, yet they formed an integrated memory for the location and time of the baiting event for particular food items. We also included a memory task that required no temporal encoding. Our results showed that apes remember in an integrated fashion what, where and when (i.e., how long ago) an event happened; that is, apes distinguished between different events in which the same food items were hidden in different places at different times. The temporal control of their choices was not dependent on the familiarity of the platforms where the food was hidden. Chimpanzees' and bonobos' performance in the temporal encoding task was age-dependent, following an inverted U-shaped distribution. The age had no effect on the performance of the subjects in the task that required no temporal encoding.}, }
@article {pmid19779825, year = {2009}, author = {Pleskacheva, MG}, title = {Behavior and spatial learning in radial mazes in birds.}, journal = {Neuroscience and behavioral physiology}, volume = {39}, number = {8}, pages = {725-739}, pmid = {19779825}, issn = {1573-899X}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Birds/*physiology ; Maze Learning/*physiology ; Space Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {This review addresses studies of spatial memory and learning in birds performed using the radial maze method. Descriptions of different versions of this test (standard and "giant" tunnel-type mazes, as well as unstructured "analogs") are described and the methodological problems of testing birds are discussed. Behavioral measures from birds and laboratory rats, as the "standard" system for radial maze studies, are compared. The characteristics of spatial learning in birds of different systematic groups (pigeons, tits, corvids, chickens, etc.) are compared. Particular attention is paid to studies addressing spatial memory in closely related bird species with different ecological features, in terms of the ability to hoard food and finding their hoards after prolonged time periods, as well as to the few reports of results from experiments with migrant birds and homing pigeons.}, }
@article {pmid19772114, year = {2009}, author = {Thomas, M and Dufour, L}, title = {Challenges of diffuse axonal injury diagnosis.}, journal = {Rehabilitation nursing : the official journal of the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses}, volume = {34}, number = {5}, pages = {179-180}, doi = {10.1002/j.2048-7940.2009.tb00276.x}, pmid = {19772114}, issn = {0278-4807}, mesh = {Brain Injuries/diagnosis/nursing/rehabilitation ; *Diffuse Axonal Injury/diagnosis/nursing/rehabilitation ; Humans ; Rehabilitation Nursing/*methods ; }, abstract = {"This can't be right. Jay is in a vegetative state following a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), but his computed tomography scan is essentially normal. How am I going to explain this to his mom?" This is a conversation I overhear among my rehabilitation nurse colleagues from time to time. Jay has a type of brain trauma called diffuse axonal injury (DAI). Recent statistics from the National Centers for Injury Prevention and Control (NCIPC, 2006) indicate 1.4 million people sustain a TBI each year in the United States. The leading causes of TBI are falls (28%), motor vehicle accidents (20%), being struck by or against an object (19%), and assaults (11%; NCIPC). DAI, one of the most important causes of cognitive dysfunction after TBI (Sugiyama et al., 2007), occurs in a more widespread pattern in certain regions of the brain than the localized zone of focal injuries. It is one of the most devastating forms of TBI and a common cause of vegetative state and severe disability. DAI occurs in 40%-50% of all patients who are hospitalized from TBI (Meythaler, Peduzzi, Eleftheriou, &amp; Novack, 2001).}, }
@article {pmid19770050, year = {2010}, author = {Golde, M and von Cramon, DY and Schubotz, RI}, title = {Differential role of anterior prefrontal and premotor cortex in the processing of relational information.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {49}, number = {3}, pages = {2890-2900}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroimage.2009.09.009}, pmid = {19770050}, issn = {1095-9572}, mesh = {Adult ; *Brain Mapping ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Reaction Time ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Processing of relational information is a prerequisite underlying a number of higher cognitive faculties. Different brain regions within the frontal cortex have been implicated in supporting this function. The present study aimed at differentiating the roles of two frontal areas - anterior prefrontal cortex (aPFC) and premotor cortex (PMC) - in relational information processing using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). We tested the assumptions that PMC and aPFC differ as to their respective roles (1) in concrete (action-related) versus abstract relational information processing and (2) in concatenation versus integration of relational information. A reasoning paradigm adapted from Raven's Progressive Matrices was employed, manipulating the number and type of rules governing the matrices and creating an "abstract" and an "action" condition. Results suggest that PMC and aPFC are functionally differentiated by the type, not by the domain of relational processing, with PMC engaged in the sequential concatenation of relations, and aPFC in their integration. These results support hierarchical models of frontal function, while challenging the postulate of domain-specific processing within the frontal lobes.}, }
@article {pmid19761849, year = {2010}, author = {Geake, JG and Hansen, PC}, title = {Functional neural correlates of fluid and crystallized analogizing.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {49}, number = {4}, pages = {3489-3497}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroimage.2009.09.008}, pmid = {19761849}, issn = {1095-9572}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Cerebral Cortex/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Nerve Net/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The main aim of this study was to characterize neural correlates of analogizing as a cognitive contributor to fluid and crystallized intelligence. In a previous fMRI study which employed fluid analogy letter strings as criteria in a multiple plausibility design (Geake and Hansen, 2005), two frontal ROIs associated with working memory (WM) load (within BA 9 and BA 45/46) were identified as regions in which BOLD increase correlated positively with a crystallized measure of (verbal) IQ. In this fMRI study we used fluid letter, number and polygon strings to further investigate the role of analogizing in fluid (transformation string completion) and non fluid or crystallized (unique symbol counting) cognitive tasks. The multi stimulus type (letter, number, polygon) design of the analogy strings enabled investigation of a secondary research question concerning the generalizability of fluid analogizing at a neural level. A selective psychometric battery, including the Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM), measured individual cognitive abilities. Neural activations for the effect of task-fluid analogizing (string transformation plausibility) vs. crystallized analogizing (unique symbol counting)-included bilateral frontal and parietal areas associated with WM load and fronto parietal models of general intelligence. Neural activations for stimulus type differences were mainly confined to visually specific posterior regions. ROI covariate analyses of the psychometric measures failed to find consistent co-relationships between fluid analogizing and the RPM and other subtests, except for the WAIS Digit Symbol subtest in a group of bilateral frontal cortical regions associated with the maintenance of WM load. Together, these results support claims for separate developmental trajectories for fluid cognition and general intelligence as assessed by these psychometric subtests.}, }
@article {pmid19760529, year = {2010}, author = {Otto-Salaj, LL and Traxel, N and Brondino, MJ and Reed, B and Gore-Felton, C and Kelly, JA and Stevenson, LY}, title = {Reactions of heterosexual African American men to women's condom negotiation strategies.}, journal = {Journal of sex research}, volume = {47}, number = {6}, pages = {539-551}, pmid = {19760529}, issn = {1559-8519}, support = {P30 MH052776/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; P30-MH52776/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R03-MH58522/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Black or African American/*psychology ; Cluster Analysis ; Condoms/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Contraception Behavior/*ethnology/*psychology ; Female ; HIV Infections ; *Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; Heterosexuality/ethnology ; Humans ; Male ; Negotiating/methods/*psychology ; Video Recording ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {This study describes responses of 172 single heterosexual African American men, ages 18 to 35, to condom negotiation attempts. Strategies used included reward, coercive, legitimate, expert, referent, and informational strategies, based on Raven's (1992) influence model. The purpose was (a) to identify strategies influencing participant acquiescence to request and (b) to identify predictors of participant compliance/refusal to comply with negotiation attempts. Participants viewed six videotape segments showing an actress, portrayed in silhouette, speaking to the viewer as a "steady partner." After each segment, participants completed measures of request compliance, positive and negative affect, and attributions concerning the model and themselves. No significant differences were found in men's ratings across all vignettes. However, differences in response existed across subgroups of individuals, suggesting that, although the strategy used had little impact on participant response, the act of suggesting condom use produced responses that differed across participant subgroups. Subgroups differed on levels of AIDS risk knowledge, sexually transmitted disease history, and experience with sexual coercion. Also, the "least willing to use" subgroup was highest in anger-rejection and least likely to make attributions of caring for partner. Effective negotiation of condom use with a male sexual partner may not be determined as much by specific strategy used as by partner characteristics.}, }
@article {pmid19757224, year = {2009}, author = {Hisli Sahin, N and Güler, M and Basim, HN}, title = {[The relationship between cognitive intelligence, emotional intelligence, coping and stress symptoms in the context of type A personality pattern].}, journal = {Turk psikiyatri dergisi = Turkish journal of psychiatry}, volume = {20}, number = {3}, pages = {243-254}, pmid = {19757224}, issn = {1300-2163}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Psychological ; Adolescent ; Adult ; *Cognition ; *Emotional Intelligence ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Personality Tests ; Psychological Tests ; Stress, Psychological/prevention &amp; control/*psychology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; *Type A Personality ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the relationships between cognitive and emotional intelligence, coping and stress symptoms in the context of Type A personality pattern.<br><br>METHOD: The Raven Progressive Matrices, Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire, Ways of Coping Inventory, Stress Symptoms Scale, and Type A Personality Scale were administered to 271 university students. Two groups, Type As and Type Bs were created according to the Type A Personality Scale scores and were compared in terms of their scores on the other scales that were administered.<br><br>RESULTS: Our analyses showed that stress symptoms were negatively correlated with effective coping, stress management, and general mood dimensions of the Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire. They were also positively correlated with ineffective coping and Type A behaviors. Being female also significantly predicted stress symptoms. When the participants were grouped according to Type A Personality Scale scores as Type As and Type Bs, the regression analysis showed that the stress symptoms of Type As were significantly predicted by the insufficient use of effective coping styles and deficiencies in the general mood component of emotional intelligence, whereas the stress symptoms of Type Bs were predicted by the insufficient use of effective coping styles, overuse of ineffective coping styles, and increase in the intrapersonal abilities component of emotional intelligence.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Stress symptoms can be related to the variables associated with personality styles. It is suggested that stress management programs for Type As should include exercises that increase emotional intelligence, especially the components of drawing pleasure from their life situation, being more positive, hopeful and optimistic.}, }
@article {pmid19751948, year = {2009}, author = {Wang, Q and Zhao, HH and Chen, JW and Gu, KD and Zhang, YZ and Zhu, YX and Zhou, YK and Ye, LX}, title = {Adverse health effects of lead exposure on children and exploration to internal lead indicator.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {407}, number = {23}, pages = {5986-5992}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2009.08.038}, pmid = {19751948}, issn = {1879-1026}, mesh = {Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/psychology ; Child ; China ; *Environmental Exposure ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/drug effects ; Lead/*toxicity ; Male ; }, abstract = {Our research on adverse effects of lead exposures on physical and neurobehavioral health of children aged 6-12years in 4 villages, labeled as K, M, L, and X, in rural China, was reported in this article. Lead in blood (PbB), urine (PbU), hairs (PbH), and nails (PbN) were measured by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. Abbreviated Symptom Questionnaire of Conner's instruments and Revised Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices were applied to evaluate childhood attention deficit/hyperactivity disorders (ADHD) and intelligences. Geometric means (SD) of PbB, PbU, PbH and PbN concentrations were 71.2 microg/L (1.56), 11.7 microg/g (1.75), 12.5 microg/g (2.82), and 25.3 microg/g (2.79), respectively. 54 (17.0%) children had PbB levels of > or =100 microg/L. Boys, 6-10 years old, and living in village K were 2.11, 2.48, and 9.16 times, respectively, more likely to be poisoned by lead than girls, aged 11-12 years, and residing in X. 18 (5.7%) and 37 (11.7%) subjects had ADHD and mental retardations, respectively. Inverse relationships between intelligences and natural log transformed PbU and PbH levels were observed with respective odds ratios (95%CI) of 1.79 (1.00-3.22) and 1.46 (1.06-2.03) or 1.28 (1.04-1.58) and 1.73 (1.18-2.52) by binary or ordinal logistic regression modeling. ADHD prevalence was different by gender and age of subjects. PbU, PbH, and PbN related to PbB positively with respective correlation coefficients of 0.530, 0.477, and 0.181. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of the three measurements revealed areas under curves (AUCs) being 0.829, 0.758, and 0.687, respectively. In conclusion, children had moderate levels of lead exposures in this rural area. Intelligence declines were associated with internal lead levels among children. ROC analysis suggests PbU an internal lead indicator close to PbB.}, }
@article {pmid19747269, year = {2009}, author = {Smyth, RM and Duley, L and Jacoby, A and Elbourne, D}, title = {Women's experiences of participating in the Magpie Trial: a postal survey in the United Kingdom.}, journal = {Birth (Berkeley, Calif.)}, volume = {36}, number = {3}, pages = {220-229}, doi = {10.1111/j.1523-536X.2009.00326.x}, pmid = {19747269}, issn = {1523-536X}, support = {G0800792/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Altruism ; Anticonvulsants/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Chi-Square Distribution ; Choice Behavior ; Drug Monitoring/adverse effects/psychology ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Magnesium Sulfate/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Multicenter Studies as Topic/psychology ; Nursing Methodology Research ; Patient Acceptance of Health Care/*psychology ; Patient Selection ; *Pre-Eclampsia/prevention &amp; control/psychology ; Pregnancy ; Pregnant People/psychology ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic/*psychology ; Research Subjects/*psychology ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The Magpie Trial compared magnesium sulfate with placebo for women with preeclampsia. The objective of this study was to explore women's views and experiences of participating in the Magpie Trial in the United Kingdom.<br><br>METHODS: Postal questionnaires were sent to 771 women participants in the Magpie Trial to assess long-term health of UK women and children. The questionnaire included three questions exploring women's experience of participating in the trial: (a) If time suddenly went backward, and you had to do it all over again, would you agree to participate in the Magpie Trial? (b) Please tell us if there was anything about the Magpie Trial that you think could have been done better; and (c) Please tell us if there was anything about the Magpie Trial, or your experience of joining the trial, that you think was particularly good.<br><br>RESULTS: Overall, 619 of the 771 women who were sent questionnaires returned them. In response to the three questions: (a) 58 percent (356) of women responded "definitely yes," 27 percent (169) "probably yes," 4 percent (23) "probably no," 5 percent (33) "definitely no," and 5 percent (34) "not sure." No clear evidence was shown of a relationship with allocated treatment, although women who responded "probably or definitely no" were more likely to have had side effects from trial treatment. (b) Although 44 percent of women stated that nothing could have been done better, free text suggestions related to content of recruitment information, and its timing, and wanting to know treatment allocation and trial results. c) Women were generally extremely positive about being followed up and receiving trial results.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Women were largely positive about participation in the trial and its follow-up, but still reported ways they believed the study could have been improved, such as more information, given earlier, which also has implications for clinical care.}, }
@article {pmid19743648, year = {2009}, author = {Crowley, J}, title = {Jay Crowley the FDA's perspective on the unique device identification system.}, journal = {Healthcare financial management : journal of the Healthcare Financial Management Association}, volume = {63}, number = {9}, pages = {48-51}, pmid = {19743648}, issn = {0735-0732}, mesh = {Diffusion of Innovation ; *Equipment and Supplies ; *Equipment and Supplies, Hospital ; Materials Management, Hospital/*standards ; United States ; *United States Food and Drug Administration ; }, }
@article {pmid19737756, year = {2009}, author = {Nemeth, NM and Young, GR and Burkhalter, KL and Brault, AC and Reisen, WK and Komar, N}, title = {West Nile virus detection in nonvascular feathers from avian carcasses.}, journal = {Journal of veterinary diagnostic investigation : official publication of the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians, Inc}, volume = {21}, number = {5}, pages = {616-622}, doi = {10.1177/104063870902100505}, pmid = {19737756}, issn = {1040-6387}, support = {U54 AI-65359/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/mortality/*virology ; Birds ; California ; Colorado ; Feathers/*virology ; Heart/virology ; North America/epidemiology ; Oropharynx/virology ; Passeriformes/virology ; RNA, Viral/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Safety ; Viral Plaque Assay ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/mortality/veterinary ; West Nile virus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) is a public health threat and has caused the death of thousands of North American birds. As such, surveillance for WNV has been ongoing, utilizing numerous biological specimens and testing methods. Nonvascular (i.e., fully grown) feathers would provide a simple method of collection from either dead or live birds of all ages and molt cycles, with presumably less biosafety risk compared with other specimen types, including feather pulp. The current study evaluates WNV detection in nonvascular feathers removed from naturally infected avian carcasses of several species groups. Feathers of corvid passeriforms had the highest sensitivity of detection (64%), followed by noncorvid passeriforms (43%), columbiforms (33%), and falconiforms (31%). Storing feathers for 1 year at -20 degrees C or at ambient room temperature resulted in detection rates of infectious WNV of 16% and zero, respectively, but had no effect on detection rates of WNV RNA in a subset of matched feather pairs (47% for both storage temperatures). The efficacy of WNV detection in nonvascular feathers is greatly enhanced by testing multiple feathers. The advantages of using nonvascular feathers over other tissues may outweigh the relatively low detectability of WNV RNA in certain situations such as remote areas lacking resources for acquiring other types of samples or maintaining the cold chain.}, }
@article {pmid19735523, year = {2009}, author = {Kaczvinsky, JR and Griffiths, CE and Schnicker, MS and Li, J}, title = {Efficacy of anti-aging products for periorbital wrinkles as measured by 3-D imaging.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {8}, number = {3}, pages = {228-233}, doi = {10.1111/j.1473-2165.2009.00444.x}, pmid = {19735523}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Carnosine/therapeutic use ; Dimethylpolysiloxanes/therapeutic use ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Glycerol/therapeutic use ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Niacinamide/*therapeutic use ; Oligopeptides/*therapeutic use ; Skin Aging/*physiology ; Skin Diseases/pathology/*prevention &amp; control ; Sunscreening Agents/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The periorbital area is a key wrinkle-prone region, where the first signs of aging usually appear.<br><br>AIMS: To demonstrate the ability of new anti-aging moisturizing products to improve overall smoothness and wrinkle depth appearance in the periorbital region via the Fast Optical in vivo Topometry of Human Skin (FOITS).<br><br>METHODS: Two double-blind, randomized, controlled, split-face studies (n = 42, Study 1; n = 35, Study 2) were conducted in women 30-70 years old with moderate to distinct periorbital wrinkles. Subjects applied 0.5 g of individual products to half their face twice daily for 4 weeks. Four test products containing niacinamide, the peptides Pal-KT and Pal-KTTKS, and carnosine were used and included a daytime SPF 30 lotion also containing antioxidants, a night cream, an eye cream also containing caffeine, and a wrinkle treatment containing retinyl propionate. The wrinkle treatment was only tested in Study 2. The FOITS technique was used to measure changes in periorbital R(a) (mean roughness) and R(z) (average maximum roughness) at 2 and 4 weeks.<br><br>RESULTS: In Study 1, the daytime SPF 30 lotion, night cream, and eye cream significantly improved crow's feet smoothness after 4 weeks relative to no treatment. After 4 weeks, the daytime SPF 30 lotion and night cream, but not the eye cream, were significantly better than no treatment at improving R(z). In Study 2, the night cream, eye cream, and wrinkle treatment, but not the daytime SPF 30 lotion, significantly improved both R(a) and R(z) after 4 weeks. To increase power and precision of estimates, a meta-analysis was performed; the pooled data showed all three products were significantly better than no treatment at improving R(a) and R(z) after 4 weeks.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Four weeks of treatment with these products was shown to improve the smoothness of periorbital skin and to reduce the apparent depth of larger wrinkles.}, }
@article {pmid19727676, year = {2009}, author = {Colzato, LS and Huizinga, M and Hommel, B}, title = {Recreational cocaine polydrug use impairs cognitive flexibility but not working memory.}, journal = {Psychopharmacology}, volume = {207}, number = {2}, pages = {225-234}, pmid = {19727676}, issn = {1432-2072}, mesh = {Adult ; Case-Control Studies ; Cocaine/*toxicity ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Female ; Humans ; Illicit Drugs/*toxicity ; Male ; Memory/*drug effects ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Reaction Time ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {RATIONALE: Chronic use of cocaine is associated with dysfunctions in frontal brain regions and dopamine D2 receptors, with poorer mental flexibility and a reduced ability to inhibit manual and attentional responses. Little is known, however, about cognitive impairments in the upcoming type of recreational cocaine polydrug user (1-4 g monthly consumption).<br><br>OBJECTIVE: We studied whether recreational cocaine polydrug users, who do not meet the criteria for abuse or dependence, showed impairments in working memory (WM) and cognitive flexibility.<br><br>METHODS: Controls and recreational cocaine polydrug users (who abstained from cocaine and other substances more than 1 week) were matched by sex, age, alcohol consumption, and IQ (Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices). Groups were tested by using two cognitive tasks measuring cognitive flexibility and three tasks investigating the maintenance and monitoring of information in WM.<br><br>RESULTS: Recreational cocaine polydrug users performed significantly worse than controls on tasks tapping cognitive flexibility, but show comparable performance in the active maintenance and monitoring of information in WM.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that recreational use of cocaine selectively impairs cognitive flexibility but not the maintenance of information in WM. The inability to adjust behavior rapidly and flexibly may have repercussions for daily life activities.}, }
@article {pmid19721874, year = {2009}, author = {Taylor, A and Roberts, R and Hunt, G and Gray, R}, title = {Causal reasoning in New Caledonian crows: Ruling out spatial analogies and sampling error.}, journal = {Communicative &amp; integrative biology}, volume = {2}, number = {4}, pages = {311-312}, pmid = {19721874}, issn = {1942-0889}, abstract = {A large number of studies have failed to find conclusive evidence for causal reasoning in nonhuman animals. For example, when animals are required to avoid a trap while extracting a reward from a tube they appear to learn about the surface-level features of the task, rather than about the task's causal regularities. We recently reported that New Caledonian crows solved a two-trap-tube task and then were able to immediately solve a novel, visually distinct problem, the trap-table task. Such transfer suggests these crows were reasoning causally. However, there are two other possible explanations for the successful transfer: sampling bias and the use of a spatial, rather than a causal, analogy. Here we present data that rule out these explanations.}, }
@article {pmid23293376, year = {2009}, author = {Ellis, JM and Langen, TA and Berg, EC}, title = {Signaling for food and sex? Begging by reproductive female white-throated magpie-jays.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {78}, number = {3}, pages = {615-623}, pmid = {23293376}, issn = {0003-3472}, support = {R01 MH060461/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Food begging is common in nutritionally dependent young of many animals, but structurally homologous calls recur in adult signal repertoires of many species. We propose eight functional hypotheses for begging in adults; these stem from observations in birds but apply broadly to other taxa in which begging occurs. Adult cooperatively-breeding white-throated magpie-jays (Calocitta formosa) use loud begging vocalizations, particularly near the nest site during reproduction. We analysed the social context and behavioural phenology of loud calling and allofeeding in this species and compared these with predictions from each functional hypothesis. We found that reproductive females are the primary producers of beg calls, and their begging peaks during the fertile period when reproductive conflict among males and females was highest. Loud begging rates correlated positively with provisioning rates, but females called more in the pre-incubation fertile period than after they initiated incubation. Based on the context, phenology and active space of the signal, we conclude that female loud begging vocalizations function to signal nutritional need to group members, but also have been evolutionarily co-opted to advertise fertility to potential extra-pair partners. The location of calling is likely a consequence of nest guarding by breeding females to prevent intraspecific brood parasitism.}, }
@article {pmid21088718, year = {2009}, author = {Gautam, RK and Kapoor, AK and Kshatriya, GK}, title = {Natural selection among Kinnaura of the Himalayan highland: A comparative analysis with other Indian and Himalayan populations.}, journal = {Indian journal of human genetics}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {125-136}, pmid = {21088718}, issn = {0971-6866}, abstract = {The present investigation on fertility and mortality differential among Kinnaura of the Himalayan highland is based on data collected from 160 post-menopausal women belonging to the middle and high altitude region of Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh (Indian Himalayas). Selection potential based on differential fertility and mortality was computed for middle-and high-altitude women. Irrespective of the methodology, the total index of selection was found to be highest among middle-altitude women (0.386) as compared with high-altitude (0.370) women, whereas for the total population it is estimated to be 0.384. It was found that the Kinnaura of the Himalayan highland showing moderate index of total selection and relative contribution of the mortality component (Im) to the index of total selection is higher than the corresponding fertility component (If). The analysis of embryonic and post-natal mortality components shows that the post-natal mortality components are higher in comparison with the embryonic mortality components among highlanders and needs special intervention and health care. The present findings are compared with other Indian tribes as well as non-tribes of the Himalayan region and other parts of the country. It reveals that this index among Kinnaura is moderate than the other population groups; among the Himalayan population, the highest was reported for Galong (It = 1.07) of Arunachal, whereas the lowest was reported from Ahom (It = 0.218) of Manipur. The correlation and regression analysis between total index of selection (It) and fertility (If) and mortality (Im) components for pooled data of populations of the Indian Himalayan states show that If and Im account for 21.6 and 29.1% variability, respectively. In Crow's total index of selection (It) along with strong association, which is significant at the 1% level, this indicates that mortality plays a greater role in natural selection in comparison with fertility among populations of the Indian Himalayas.}, }
@article {pmid19716165, year = {2009}, author = {Meyer, J and Jaspers, VL and Eens, M and de Coen, W}, title = {The relationship between perfluorinated chemical levels in the feathers and livers of birds from different trophic levels.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {407}, number = {22}, pages = {5894-5900}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2009.07.032}, pmid = {19716165}, issn = {1879-1026}, mesh = {Alkanesulfonic Acids/metabolism ; Animals ; Birds/*metabolism ; Charadriiformes/metabolism ; Columbiformes/metabolism ; Environmental Exposure/analysis ; Environmental Monitoring ; Environmental Pollutants/*metabolism ; Feathers/*metabolism ; Fluorocarbons/*metabolism ; Food Chain ; Liver/*metabolism ; Passeriformes/metabolism ; Raptors/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Although feathers have been used successfully for monitoring heavy metals and organic pollutants, there are currently no data available on the use of feathers as indicators of perfluorinated chemical (PFC) exposure in birds. Also, no study has evaluated PFC levels in birds with different diets from different habitats. In the current study we investigated the PFC exposure of five different bird species from the same geographic region in Belgium, using both feathers and liver tissue. The highest mean liver perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) levels were found in the Grey Heron (476 ng/g ww) followed by the Herring Gull (292 ng/g ww) and Eurasian Sparrowhawk (236 ng/g ww), whereas the Eurasian Magpie (17 ng/g ww) and the Eurasian Collared Dove (12 ng/g ww) had the lowest levels. The PFOS levels in the feathers showed a different pattern. The Grey Heron had the highest feather PFOS levels (247 ng/g dw), the Eurasian Sparrowhawk (102 ng/g dw) had the second highest feather PFOS levels, followed by the Herring Gull (79 ng/g dw) and the Eurasian Collared Dove (48 ng/g dw), and the lowest levels were found in the Eurasian Magpie (31 ng/g dw). Overall, there was a significant positive correlation (Pearson, R=0.622, p<0.01) between the feather and liver PFOS levels, indicating that feathers could be an alternative bioindicator for PFOS exposure in birds. However, caution should be taken as there was no significant correlation between the PFOS levels in the feathers and livers of the individual species. In general, birds from a higher trophic level had higher PFC levels in their tissues. This indicates that diet plays a role in PFC exposure in birds and confirms the bioaccumulation potential of PFC.}, }
@article {pmid19712919, year = {2009}, author = {Copeland, CE and Six, CK}, title = {A tale of two anticoagulants: warfarin and heparin.}, journal = {Journal of surgical education}, volume = {66}, number = {3}, pages = {176-181}, doi = {10.1016/j.jsurg.2009.03.035}, pmid = {19712919}, issn = {1878-7452}, mesh = {Anticoagulants/*history ; Heparin/*history ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; United States ; Warfarin/*history ; }, abstract = {This article relays the story of 3 men, Karl Paul Link, who is the discoverer of warfarin, and William Henry Howell and Jay McLean, who are the discoverers of heparin.}, }
@article {pmid19694626, year = {2010}, author = {Welham, J and Scott, J and Williams, GM and Najman, JM and Bor, W and O'Callaghan, M and McGrath, J}, title = {The antecedents of non-affective psychosis in a birth-cohort, with a focus on measures related to cognitive ability, attentional dysfunction and speech problems.}, journal = {Acta psychiatrica Scandinavica}, volume = {121}, number = {4}, pages = {273-279}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-0447.2009.01470.x}, pmid = {19694626}, issn = {1600-0447}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Attention ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*complications ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/*complications ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Language Tests ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; *Psychotic Disorders/epidemiology/etiology ; Risk Factors ; *Schizophrenia, Paranoid/epidemiology/etiology ; Sex Factors ; Speech Disorders/*complications ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Adults with non-affective psychosis show subtle deviations in a range of developmental trajectories as children and adolescents.<br><br>METHOD: Based on a birth-cohort (n = 3801), we examined the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (PPTV) at age 5, and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) and Wide Range Achievement Test reading scale (WRAT-R) at age 14. Items related to speech problems and attentional dysfunction were available from maternal- or self-report. At age 21, we identified 60 cohort members who were screen-positive for non-affective psychosis (SP-NAP).<br><br>RESULTS: Impaired performance on the PPVT and RSPM (but not WRAT-R) predicted SP-NAP for males only. Male cohort members in the highest quartile for attentional dysfunction at ages 5 and 14 were about 5-8 times more likely to develop SP-NAP. SP-NAP in males was significantly associated with speech problems at age 14.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Males who develop non-affective psychoses have subtle impairments in cognitive capacity prior to the development of their psychotic disorder.}, }
@article {pmid19688934, year = {2009}, author = {Malt, JM and Lank, DB}, title = {Marbled murrelet nest predation risk in managed forest landscapes: dynamic fragmentation effects at multiple scales.}, journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America}, volume = {19}, number = {5}, pages = {1274-1287}, doi = {10.1890/08-0598.1}, pmid = {19688934}, issn = {1051-0761}, mesh = {Animals ; British Columbia ; Charadriiformes/*physiology ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; *Nesting Behavior ; Population Dynamics ; *Predatory Behavior ; Risk Assessment ; *Trees ; }, abstract = {The effects of forest fragmentation on bird populations have been studied primarily as static phenomena. Yet when forests are allowed to regenerate, local edge contrast and landscape matrix composition change with time, and we would expect fragmentation effects to change accordingly. Describing this process is critical for the conservation of avian species sensitive to forest fragmentation, including the Marbled Murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus), a seabird threatened by ongoing harvest of old-growth forest nesting habitat. We experimentally assessed potential murrelet nest predation probability in four regions of southwestern British Columbia, Canada. We compared the fates of 448 simulated murrelet nests at paired edge and interior treatments, at sites with "hard" edges (recent clearcuts), "soft" edges (regenerating forest), and natural edges (i.e., riparian areas). Motion-sensitive digital nest cameras enabled us to focus on known predators of real nests, and patterns of nest fates did not differ between real and simulated nests. Using information-theoretic model selection (AIC) with the combined data set (116 sites), we assessed effects at patch (approximately 13 ha), landscape (approximately 1700 ha), and regional (approximately 96000 ha) scales. Nest disturbance probability at hard edges was 2.5 times that of interior sites, but soft edges had less than half the disturbance probability of interiors. There was no edge effect at natural edges. At the landscape scale, overall avian disturbance risk declined by as much as 50% with increasing amounts of regenerating forest in the surrounding matrix. These results indicate that initially negative fragmentation effects decrease as forests regenerate, at both patch and landscape scales. There was no evidence that these patterns differed between regions. Predator surveys suggested that Steller's Jays drive patterns of nest predation risk at the regional scale. Assuming that corvids are the most important predators, larger reserves of habitat will lessen negative hard-edge effects. Smaller reserves should be embedded in a protective matrix of regenerating forest to reduce predation risk at both patch and landscape scales. Our results suggest that dynamic fragmentation effects are generalizable across widespread regions and can be broadly applied to both murrelet management and the conservation of old-growth forest-breeding birds in general.}, }
@article {pmid19687960, year = {2009}, author = {Weiss, O and Scheuer, J}, title = {Side coupled adjacent resonators CROW--formation of mid-band zero group velocity.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {17}, number = {17}, pages = {14817-14824}, doi = {10.1364/oe.17.014817}, pmid = {19687960}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {A side coupled adjacent resonators CROW (SC-CROW) structure is presented. The dispersion relation, group velocity and GVD are found numerically and analytically using a transfer matrix method. The structure shows fast and slow transmission of light. Zero group velocity is present at the ends of the Brillouin zone, but also in other parts of it. Infinite and finite SC-CROW structures show band gaps created by Bragg and ring resonances. Pulse propagation at slow group velocities is highly dispersive, but easier to manage at higher group velocities. The differences between SC-CROW, SCISSOR and CROW waveguides are studied in detail.}, }
@article {pmid19686365, year = {2009}, author = {Ascher, B and Rzany, BJ and Grover, R}, title = {Efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin type A in the treatment of lateral crow's feet: double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-ranging study.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {35}, number = {10}, pages = {1478-1486}, doi = {10.1111/j.1524-4725.2009.01261.x}, pmid = {19686365}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Cosmetic Techniques ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Double-Blind Method ; Eye ; Female ; Humans ; Injections, Subcutaneous ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) is frequently used to treat crow's feet; the optimal dose for each toxin preparation should be established.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy and safety of three doses of BoNT-A with placebo to treat crow's feet.<br><br>METHODS: Subjects with moderate to severe crow's feet at maximum smile (mild to severe at rest) were randomized to a single bilateral BoNT-A treatment (15, 30, or 45 U) or placebo. Outcome measures included evaluation of crow's feet by an independent panel from blinded photographs at maximum smile, investigator assessment, and patient satisfaction.<br><br>RESULTS: Independent panel assessments (Week 4) showed that all BoNT-A doses resulted in significant improvements in crow's feet severity at maximum smile (p<.001); a clear dose-response effect was seen. Improvement over placebo was seen in the 30-U and 45-U groups to Week 12. Investigator assessment showed significant improvement for all doses for 12 weeks at maximum smile and rest (p< or =.01). Patient satisfaction was significantly greater for all doses than for placebo for 16 weeks (all p<.05). All doses were well tolerated. CONCLUSION BoNT-A (15, 30, or 45 U) is an effective and safe treatment for mild to severe crow's feet.}, }
@article {pmid19685971, year = {2009}, author = {Salwiczek, LH and Emery, NJ and Schlinger, B and Clayton, NS}, title = {The development of caching and object permanence in Western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica): which emerges first?.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {123}, number = {3}, pages = {295-303}, pmid = {19685971}, issn = {0735-7036}, support = {BB/D000335/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; R01 MH061994/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH061994-07/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; *Appetitive Behavior ; *Attention ; Concept Formation ; Cooperative Behavior ; *Crows ; Exploratory Behavior ; Feeding Behavior ; Memory, Short-Term ; *Mental Recall ; Motion Perception ; Motivation ; *Orientation ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Perceptual Masking ; Psychomotor Performance ; *Social Environment ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Recent studies on the food-caching behavior of corvids have revealed complex physical and social skills, yet little is known about the ontogeny of food caching in relation to the development of cognitive capacities. Piagetian object permanence is the understanding that objects continue to exist even when they are no longer visible. Here, the authors focus on Piagetian Stages 3 and 4, because they are hallmarks in the cognitive development of both young children and animals. Our aim is to determine in a food-caching corvid, the Western scrub-jay, whether (1) Piagetian Stage 4 competence and tentative caching (i.e., hiding an item invisibly and retrieving it without delay), emerge concomitantly or consecutively; (2) whether experiencing the reappearance of hidden objects enhances the timing of the appearance of object permanence; and (3) discuss how the development of object permanence is related to behavioral development and sensorimotor intelligence. Our findings suggest that object permanence Stage 4 emerges before tentative caching, and independent of environmental influences, but that once the birds have developed simple object-permanence, then social learning might advance the interval after which tentative caching commences.}, }
@article {pmid19685178, year = {2010}, author = {Webb, AL and Ramakrishnan, U and Stein, AD and Sellen, DW and Merchant, M and Martorell, R}, title = {Greater years of maternal schooling and higher scores on academic achievement tests are independently associated with improved management of child diarrhea by rural Guatemalan mothers.}, journal = {Maternal and child health journal}, volume = {14}, number = {5}, pages = {799-806}, pmid = {19685178}, issn = {1573-6628}, support = {R01 HD029927/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HD043099/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HD29927/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; /CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Child, Preschool ; Diarrhea, Infantile/epidemiology/*therapy ; *Educational Status ; Female ; Fluid Therapy ; Guatemala/epidemiology ; *Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; Humans ; Infant ; Intelligence Tests ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Mothers/*education/psychology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Rural Population ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {Appropriate home management can alleviate many of the consequences of diarrhea including malnutrition, impaired development, growth faltering, and mortality. Maternal cognitive ability, years of schooling, and acquired academic skills are hypothesized to improve child health by improving maternal child care practices, such as illness management. Using information collected longitudinally in 1996-1999 from 466 rural Guatemalan women with children <36 months, we examined the independent associations between maternal years of schooling, academic skills, and scores on the Raven's Progressive Matrices and an illness management index (IMI). Women scoring in the lowest and middle tertiles of academic skills scored lower on the IMI compared to women in the highest tertile (-0.24 [95% CI: -0.54, 0.07]; -0.30 [95% CI: -0.54, -0.06], respectively) independent of sociodemographic factors, schooling, and Raven's scores. Among mothers with less than 1 year of schooling, scoring in the lowest tertile on the Raven's Progressive Matrices compared to the highest was significantly associated with scoring one point lower on the IMI (-1.18 [95% CI: -2.20, -0.17]). Greater academic skills were independently associated with maternal care during episodes of infant diarrhea. Schooling of young girls and/or community based programs that provide women with academic skills such as literacy, numeracy and knowledge could potentially improve mothers' care giving practices.}, }
@article {pmid19665701, year = {2009}, author = {Zolfaghari, G and Esmaili-Sari, A and Ghasempouri, SM and Baydokhti, RR and Hassanzade Kiabi, B}, title = {A multispecies-monitoring study about bioaccumulation of mercury in Iranian birds (Khuzestan to Persian Gulf): Effect of taxonomic affiliation and trophic level.}, journal = {Environmental research}, volume = {109}, number = {7}, pages = {830-836}, doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2009.07.001}, pmid = {19665701}, issn = {1096-0953}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*metabolism ; Classification ; Ecotoxicology/*methods ; Environmental Monitoring/methods ; Feathers/chemistry/*metabolism ; Food Chain ; Iran ; Mercury/analysis/*pharmacokinetics ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; }, abstract = {In the present study, the first baseline concentration of mercury (Hg) in different species of Iranian birds was investigated. From April to October 2005, the tail feathers of 100 birds belonging to 27 species (14 families) from different places in southwest Iran (Khuzestan to Persian Gulf) were collected. The Hg levels were evaluated in relation to taxonomic affiliation and trophic level (type of food). The results showed that the Hg levels in the feathers were between 0.07 and 4.71mg/kg dry weight (dw), and there was a significant effect of taxonomic groups in relation to Hg concentration (p<0.001). The highest mercury concentrations were in Laridae and Ciconidae. Alcedinidae had intermediate values, whereas Upupidae, Glareolidae, Scolopacidae, Turdidae, Ardeidae, Anatidae were in subsequent orders; and the lowest concentrations of Hg were in Rallidae, Cuculidae, Pycnonotidae, Corvidae and Columbidae. The results indicated a significant difference between the trophic levels (p<0.001). Fish predators had the highest level of Hg (3.07mg/kg). Invertebrate predators and herbivorous birds had the lowest concentration of Hg (0.84 and 0.64mg/kg, respectively), whereas crab and fish predators and omnivorous birds had moderate values (1.73 and 1.70mg/kg, respectively). In the present study, the concentration of Hg was significantly higher in tail feathers than in primary and secondary (p<0.001). A significant positive correlation among Hg concentration of feather types was observed (r>0.96). The results obtained in this study indicated that among 100 birds tested, 6% of them had Hg concentrations greater than 5mg/kg in feather (adverse level).}, }
@article {pmid19664926, year = {2009}, author = {Bird, CD and Emery, NJ}, title = {Rooks use stones to raise the water level to reach a floating worm.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {19}, number = {16}, pages = {1410-1414}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2009.07.033}, pmid = {19664926}, issn = {1879-0445}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Choice Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; *Problem Solving ; Research Design ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {In Aesop's fable "The Crow and the Pitcher," a thirsty crow uses stones to raise the level of water in a pitcher and quench its thirst. A number of corvids have been found to use tools in the wild, and New Caledonian crows appear to understand the functional properties of tools and solve complex physical problems via causal and analogical reasoning. The rook, another member of the corvid family that does not appear to use tools in the wild, also appears able to solve non-tool-related problems via similar reasoning. Here, we present evidence that captive rooks are also able to solve a complex problem by using tools. We presented four captive rooks with a problem analogous to Aesop's fable: raising the level of water so that a floating worm moved into reach. All four subjects solved the problem with an appreciation of precisely how many stones were needed. Three subjects also rapidly learned to use large stones over small ones, and that sawdust cannot be manipulated in the same manner as water. This behavior demonstrates a flexible ability to use tools, a finding with implications for the evolution of tool use and cognition in animals.}, }
@article {pmid19657761, year = {2010}, author = {Fox, MC and Charness, N}, title = {How to gain eleven IQ points in ten minutes: thinking aloud improves Raven's Matrices performance in older adults.}, journal = {Neuropsychology, development, and cognition. Section B, Aging, neuropsychology and cognition}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {191-204}, doi = {10.1080/13825580903042668}, pmid = {19657761}, issn = {1744-4128}, support = {2P01 AG17211/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aged ; Aging ; Analysis of Variance ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Speech ; *Thinking ; Time Factors ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Few studies have examined the impact of age on reactivity to concurrent think-aloud (TA) verbal reports. An initial study with 30 younger and 31 older adults revealed that thinking aloud improves older adult performance on a short form of the Raven's Matrices (Bors &amp; Stokes, 1998, Educational and Psychological Measurement, 58, p. 382) but did not affect other tasks. In the replication experiment, 30 older adults (mean age = 73.0) performed the Raven's Matrices and three other tasks to replicate and extend the findings of the initial study. Once again older adults performed significantly better only on the Raven's Matrices while thinking aloud. Performance gains on this task were substantial (d = 0.73 and 0.92 in Experiments 1 and 2, respectively), corresponding to a fluid intelligence increase of nearly one standard deviation.}, }
@article {pmid19656858, year = {2010}, author = {Loretto, MC and Schloegl, C and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Northern bald ibises follow others' gaze into distant space but not behind barriers.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {6}, number = {1}, pages = {14-17}, pmid = {19656858}, issn = {1744-957X}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Attention/*physiology ; Birds/*physiology ; *Eye Movements ; Orientation/*physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Gaze following is the ability to use the visual orientation of others as a trigger to look in the same direction. Thereby, animals may either align their head and eye orientation with others (gaze following into distant space) or may even reposition themselves to look behind barriers impairing their perception (geometrical gaze following). It has been proposed that these two different modes are functionally and cognitively distinct, but experimental evidence for this claim is lacking. We here, to our knowledge, demonstrate for the first time, that adult animals may be capable of following gaze into distant space, but not geometrically around barriers. We tested Northern bald ibises (Geronticus eremita) for their ability to follow a conspecific's gaze in two standard tasks. The birds readily looked up after seeing a model bird looking up; however, when seeing a model looking behind a barrier, they responded by looking at the barrier instead of walking around. These findings are in stark contrast to results obtained with great apes and corvids and provide the first experimental evidence, to our knowledge, for cognitive differences in gaze following tasks.}, }
@article {pmid19654864, year = {2009}, author = {Schloegl, C and Dierks, A and Gajdon, GK and Huber, L and Kotrschal, K and Bugnyar, T}, title = {What you see is what you get? Exclusion performances in ravens and keas.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {4}, number = {8}, pages = {e6368}, pmid = {19654864}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Parrots/*physiology ; Task Performance and Analysis ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Among birds, corvids and parrots are prime candidates for advanced cognitive abilities. Still, hardly anything is known about cognitive similarities and dissimilarities between them. Recently, exclusion has gained increasing interest in comparative cognition. To select the correct option in an exclusion task, one option has to be rejected (or excluded) and the correct option may be inferred, which raises the possibility that causal understanding is involved. However, little is yet known about its evolutionary history, as only few species, and mainly mammals, have been studied.<br><br>We tested ravens and keas in a choice task requiring the search for food in two differently shaped tubes. We provided the birds with partial information about the content of one of the two tubes and asked whether they could use this information to infer the location of the hidden food and adjust their searching behaviour accordingly. Additionally, this setup allowed us to investigate whether the birds would appreciate the impact of the shape of the tubes on the visibility of food. The keas chose the baited tube more often than the ravens. However, the ravens applied the more efficient strategy, choosing by exclusion more frequently than the keas. An additional experiment confirmed this, indicating that ravens and keas either differ in their cognitive skills or that they apply them differently.<br><br>CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate that corvids and parrots may perform differently in cognitive tasks, highlighting the potential impact of different selection pressures on the cognitive evolution of these large-brained birds.}, }
@article {pmid19654861, year = {2009}, author = {Wimpenny, JH and Weir, AA and Clayton, L and Rutz, C and Kacelnik, A}, title = {Cognitive processes associated with sequential tool use in New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {4}, number = {8}, pages = {e6471}, pmid = {19654861}, issn = {1932-6203}, support = {BB/C517392/1//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; *Cognition ; Crows/*physiology ; Task Performance and Analysis ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Using tools to act on non-food objects--for example, to make other tools--is considered to be a hallmark of human intelligence, and may have been a crucial step in our evolution. One form of this behaviour, 'sequential tool use', has been observed in a number of non-human primates and even in one bird, the New Caledonian crow (Corvus moneduloides). While sequential tool use has often been interpreted as evidence for advanced cognitive abilities, such as planning and analogical reasoning, the behaviour itself can be underpinned by a range of different cognitive mechanisms, which have never been explicitly examined. Here, we present experiments that not only demonstrate new tool-using capabilities in New Caledonian crows, but allow examination of the extent to which crows understand the physical interactions involved.<br><br>In two experiments, we tested seven captive New Caledonian crows in six tasks requiring the use of up to three different tools in a sequence to retrieve food. Our study incorporated several novel features: (i) we tested crows on a three-tool problem (subjects were required to use a tool to retrieve a second tool, then use the second tool to retrieve a third one, and finally use the third one to reach for food); (ii) we presented tasks of different complexity in random rather than progressive order; (iii) we included a number of control conditions to test whether tool retrieval was goal-directed; and (iv) we manipulated the subjects' pre-testing experience. Five subjects successfully used tools in a sequence (four from their first trial), and four subjects repeatedly solved the three-tool condition. Sequential tool use did not require, but was enhanced by, pre-training on each element in the sequence ('chaining'), an explanation that could not be ruled out in earlier studies. By analyzing tool choice, tool swapping and improvement over time, we show that successful subjects did not use a random probing strategy. However, we find no firm evidence to support previous claims that sequential tool use demonstrates analogical reasoning or human-like planning.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: While the ability of subjects to use three tools in sequence reveals a competence beyond that observed in any other species, our study also emphasises the importance of parsimony in comparative cognitive science: seemingly intelligent behaviour can be achieved without the involvement of high-level mental faculties, and detailed analyses are necessary before accepting claims for complex cognitive abilities.}, }
@article {pmid19645518, year = {2009}, author = {Kim, S and Lee, I and Kim, YB and Koom, WS and Jeon, BC and Lee, CG and Kim, GE and Keum, KC}, title = {A comparison of treatment plans using linac-based intensity-modulated radiation therapy and helical tomotherapy for maxillary sinus carcinoma.}, journal = {Technology in cancer research &amp; treatment}, volume = {8}, number = {4}, pages = {257-263}, doi = {10.1177/153303460900800402}, pmid = {19645518}, issn = {1533-0346}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Brain Stem/pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Maxillary Sinus Neoplasms/pathology/*radiotherapy ; Middle Aged ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated/*methods ; Tomography, Spiral Computed/*methods ; Visual Pathways/pathology ; }, abstract = {This study evaluated whether helical tomotherapy (TOMO) planning could achieve better isodose distribution for the maxillary sinus while concomitantly sparing the adjacent _critical normal organs than linac-based step-and-shoot IMRT (s-IMRT) planning. TOMO and s-IMRT were established for 10 patients with maxillary sinus cancer. The prescription (66 Gy, 30 fractions) was used to cover the planning target volume (PTV) with a 95% isodose line. Each plan was independently optimized using the CORVUS planning system and Tomotherapy Hi-Art system. The treatment plans were compared using dose volume histogram (DVH), a dose homogeneity index (DHI) of the PTV, and equivalent uniform dose (EUD) and DVH of organs at risk (OARs). The TOMO plans demonstrated better dose homogeneity compared to the s-IMRT plans. The average V95% of the TOMO plans was similar to that of the s-IMRT (92.92% vs. 95.07%, respectively), but the average V107% was 0% for TOMO compared with 18.74% for s-IMRT. The average maximum dose reduction was 7 Gy, and DHI increased by 8% for PTV1 in TOMO compared with s-IMRT (79 Gy vs. 71 Gy and, 89% vs. 97%, respectively). The average EUD reduction for the optic nerve was 17%. In summary, planning with TOMO was superior to s-IMRT planning with respect to dose homogeneity within the PTV and sparing of the optic nerve.}, }
@article {pmid19638165, year = {2010}, author = {Monaco, F and Lelli, R and Teodori, L and Pinoni, C and Di Gennaro, A and Polci, A and Calistri, P and Savini, G}, title = {Re-emergence of West Nile virus in Italy.}, journal = {Zoonoses and public health}, volume = {57}, number = {7-8}, pages = {476-486}, doi = {10.1111/j.1863-2378.2009.01245.x}, pmid = {19638165}, issn = {1863-2378}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Communicable Diseases, Emerging ; *Disease Outbreaks ; Genome ; Horse Diseases/epidemiology/*virology ; Horses ; Humans ; Italy/epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; Population Surveillance ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/classification/*genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {In August 2008, West Nile disease re-emerged in Italy. The infection is affecting the North Eastern regions and, as of November 2008, has caused 33 clinical cases and five fatalities in horses. Until now, no deaths have been reported in birds. Mosquitoes, blood, serum and tissue samples, from horses and birds, within and around the outbreak area, have been collected and tested by various methods both serologically and virologically. West Nile virus strains have been isolated from blood samples of one horse and one donkey and from pools of brain, kidneys, heart and spleen of a pigeon and three magpies. When compared to the strain isolated during the 1998 Tuscany outbreak, the 255 bp sequence of the genome region coding for the envelope (E) protein of the isolated WNV strains, exhibited a 98.8% and 100% similarity at nucleotide and amino-acid level respectively.}, }
@article {pmid19629522, year = {2009}, author = {Kim, KS and Tsuda, Y and Sasaki, T and Kobayashi, M and Hirota, Y}, title = {Mosquito blood-meal analysis for avian malaria study in wild bird communities: laboratory verification and application to Culex sasai (Diptera: Culicidae) collected in Tokyo, Japan.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {105}, number = {5}, pages = {1351-1357}, pmid = {19629522}, issn = {1432-1955}, mesh = {Aedes/parasitology ; Animals ; Blood/*parasitology ; Cattle ; Crows/parasitology ; Culex/*parasitology ; DNA, Protozoan/chemistry/genetics ; Female ; Gastrointestinal Tract/parasitology ; Malaria, Avian/*parasitology ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Oocysts ; Passeriformes/parasitology ; Plasmodium/*isolation &amp; purification ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/methods ; Poultry/parasitology ; Saliva/parasitology ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Songbirds/parasitology ; Sporozoites ; Tokyo ; }, abstract = {We conducted laboratory experiments to verify molecular techniques of avian malaria parasite detection distinguishing between an infected mosquito (oocysts on midgut wall) and infective mosquito (sporozoites in salivary glands) in parallel with blood-meal identification from individual blood-fed mosquitoes prior to application to field survey for avian malaria. Domestic fowl infected with Plasmodium gallinaceum was exposed to a vector and non-vector mosquito species, Aedes aegypti and Culex pipiens pallens, respectively, to compare the time course of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection for parasite between competent and refractory mosquitoes. DNA of the domestic fowl was detectable for at least 3 days after blood feeding. The PCR-based detection of P. gallinaceum from the abdomen and thorax of A. aegypti corresponded to the microscopic observation of oocysts and sporozoites. Therefore, this PCR-based method was considered useful as one of the criteria to assess developmental stages of Plasmodium spp. in mosquito species collected in the field. We applied the same PCR-based method to 21 blood-fed C. sasai mosquitoes collected in Rinshi-no-mori Park in urban Tokyo, Japan. Of 15 blood meals of C. sasai successfully identified, 86.7% were avian-derived, 13.3% were bovine-derived. Plasmodium DNA was amplified from the abdomen of three C. sasai specimens having an avian blood meal from the Great Tit (Parus major), Pale Thrush (Turdus pallidus), and Jungle Crow (Corvus macrorhynchos). This is the first field study on host-feeding habits of C. sasai in relation to the potential role as a vector for avian malaria parasites transmitted in the Japanese wild bird community.}, }
@article {pmid19627491, year = {2009}, author = {Berg, EC and Eadie, JM and Langen, TA and Russell, AF}, title = {Reverse sex-biased philopatry in a cooperative bird: genetic consequences and a social cause.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {18}, number = {16}, pages = {3486-3499}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2009.04284.x}, pmid = {19627491}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; Costa Rica ; Female ; Genetic Variation ; *Genetics, Population ; Male ; *Nesting Behavior ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; *Sexual Behavior, Animal ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {The genetic structure of a group or population of organisms can profoundly influence the potential for inbreeding and, through this, can affect both dispersal strategies and mating systems. We used estimates of genetic relatedness as well as likelihood-based methods to reconstruct social group composition and examine sex biases in dispersal in a Costa Rican population of white-throated magpie-jays (Calocitta formosa, Swainson 1827), one of the few birds suggested to have female-biased natal philopatry. We found that females within groups were more closely related than males, which is consistent with observational data indicating that males disperse upon maturity, whereas females tend to remain in their natal territories and act as helpers. In addition, males were generally unrelated to one another within groups, suggesting that males do not disperse with or towards relatives. Finally, within social groups, female helpers were less related to male than female breeders, suggesting greater male turnover within groups. This last result indicates that within the natal group, female offspring have more opportunities than males to mate with nonrelatives, which might help to explain the unusual pattern of female-biased philopatry and male-biased dispersal in this system. We suggest that the novel approach adopted here is likely to be particularly useful for short-term studies or those conducted on rare or difficult-to-observe species, as it allows one to establish general patterns of philopatry and genetic structure without the need for long-term monitoring of identifiable individuals.}, }
@article {pmid19624868, year = {2009}, author = {Gautam, RK}, title = {Opportunity for natural selection among the Indian population: secular trend, covariates and implications.}, journal = {Journal of biosocial science}, volume = {41}, number = {6}, pages = {705-745}, doi = {10.1017/S0021932009990095}, pmid = {19624868}, issn = {1469-7599}, mesh = {*Birth Rate ; *Developing Countries ; Educational Status ; Ethnicity/*genetics ; Female ; *Fertility ; *Genetics, Population ; Genotype ; *Hierarchy, Social ; Hinduism ; Humans ; India ; Male ; *Mortality ; Multivariate Analysis ; Population Dynamics ; Regression Analysis ; Religion and Medicine ; Selection, Genetic/*genetics ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {Crow's index is widely used for indirect quantitative estimation of natural selection using birth and death rates. The present investigation is based on 179 studies among 144 different endogamous communities belonging to nineteen states and six geographical regions of India, categorized into six social groups. These studies appeared in 33 different years over six decades (1956 to 2007). The secular trend in Crow's index (I(t)) and its mortality and fertility components (I(m) and I(f)) shows a gradual decline in I(t) and radical shift in the relative contributions of I(m) and I(f). Before 1990 the opportunity for natural selection was mainly determined by differential pre-reproductive mortality (I(m)), whereas after 1990 it has been determined by differential fertility (I(f)). To find out the covariates of I(t), I(m) and I(f) sixteen socio-demographic variables were considered, and nine were found to be significantly correlated with I(t): total dependency ratio, decadal growth rate 1991-2001, young age dependency ratio, crude death rate, total fertility rate, child mortality rate, under-5 mortality rate, old age dependency ratio and decadal growth rate 1981-1991. On the basis of multivariate stepwise regression analysis, female literacy emerged as one of the most important predictors of I(t). The declining trend of I(t), Im and I(f) shows that the Indian population is passing through the demographic transition.}, }
@article {pmid19624325, year = {2009}, author = {Alati, R and Van Dooren, K and Najman, JM and Williams, GM and Clavarino, A}, title = {Early weaning and alcohol disorders in offspring: biological effect, mediating factors or residual confounding?.}, journal = {Addiction (Abingdon, England)}, volume = {104}, number = {8}, pages = {1324-1332}, doi = {10.1111/j.1360-0443.2009.02643.x}, pmid = {19624325}, issn = {1360-0443}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Alcohol-Related Disorders/*diagnosis/epidemiology/prevention &amp; control ; Australia/epidemiology ; Breast Feeding/epidemiology ; Child ; Child Behavior Disorders/chemically induced/epidemiology/*prevention &amp; control ; Child, Preschool ; Epidemiologic Methods ; Female ; Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders/*diagnosis/epidemiology/prevention &amp; control ; Humans ; Infant ; Male ; Pregnancy ; *Weaning ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {AIMS: This study explores associations between early weaning and alcohol use disorders in youth and mechanisms by which these associations may operate.<br><br>DESIGN: We used data from the Mater University Study of Pregnancy and its outcomes, an Australian birth cohort study based in Brisbane.<br><br>SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: This study is based on a subsample of 2370 participants for whom complete data were available at age 21 years. Length and method of breastfeeding were assessed at 6 months.<br><br>MEASUREMENTS: Alcohol use disorders were assessed at age 21 using the life-time version of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview-computerized version (CIDI-Auto). We adjusted for maternal age, marital status, education, alcohol, tobacco use, anxiety, depression and maternal attitudes towards the baby. Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD) and Intellect Quotient (IQ) were measured with the Child Behaviour Checklist (5 years) and the Ravens SM (14 years), respectively.<br><br>FINDINGS: Those who had been weaned within 2 weeks of being born and breastfed at regular intervals were at increased risk of meeting criteria for alcohol use disorders at age 21 [odds ratio (OR) 1.71, 95% confidence interval (CI):1.07, 2.72].<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study confirms a small but robust association between early weaning and increased risk of alcohol use disorders.}, }
@article {pmid19620387, year = {2009}, author = {Yokosuka, M and Hagiwara, A and Saito, TR and Tsukahara, N and Aoyama, M and Wakabayashi, Y and Sugita, S and Ichikawa, M}, title = {Histological properties of the nasal cavity and olfactory bulb of the Japanese jungle crow Corvus macrorhynchos.}, journal = {Chemical senses}, volume = {34}, number = {7}, pages = {581-593}, doi = {10.1093/chemse/bjp040}, pmid = {19620387}, issn = {1464-3553}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Japan ; Lectins/analysis/metabolism ; Male ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Nasal Cavity/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Olfactory Bulb/*anatomy &amp; histology/metabolism ; Olfactory Nerve/anatomy &amp; histology/metabolism ; Protein Binding ; Quail ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {The nasal cavity and olfactory bulb (OB) of the Japanese jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) were studied using computed tomography (CT) and histochemical staining. The nasal septum divided the nasal cavity in half. The anterior and maxillary conchae were present on both sides of the nasal cavity, but the posterior concha was indistinct. A small OB was present on the ventral surface of the periphery of the cerebrum. The OB-brain ratio--the ratio of the size of the OB to that of the cerebral hemisphere--was 6.13. The olfactory nerve bundles projected independently to the OB, which appeared fused on gross examination. Histochemical analysis confirmed the fusion of all OB layers. Using a neural tracer, we found that the olfactory nerve bundles independently projected to the olfactory nerve layer (ONL) and glomerular layer (GL) of the left and right halves of the fused OB. Only 4 of 21 lectins bound to the ONL and GL. Thus, compared with mammals and other birds, the jungle crow may have a poorly developed olfactory system and an inferior sense of olfaction. However, it has been contended recently that the olfactory abilities of birds cannot be judged from anatomical findings alone. Our results indicate that the olfactory system of the jungle crow is an interesting research model to evaluate the development and functions of vertebrate olfactory systems.}, }
@article {pmid19620015, year = {2010}, author = {Anjum, MN and Parker, W and Ruo, R and Afzal, M}, title = {Evaluation criteria for film based intensity modulated radiation therapy quality assurance.}, journal = {Physica medica : PM : an international journal devoted to the applications of physics to medicine and biology : official journal of the Italian Association of Biomedical Physics (AIFB)}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {38-43}, doi = {10.1016/j.ejmp.2009.06.002}, pmid = {19620015}, issn = {1724-191X}, mesh = {Cohort Studies ; Film Dosimetry ; Head and Neck Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Humans ; Phantoms, Imaging ; Quality Assurance, Health Care/*methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; *Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated/instrumentation ; Water ; X-Ray Film ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to use different gamma histogram criteria for the comparison of planned dose with irradiated dose distribution and find that what percent of pixels passing a certain criteria imitate a good quality plan. The dose was calculated for 156 patients by inverse planning optimization using the Corvus treatment planning system. Gafchromic films in combination with 2571 0.6 cm(3) Farmer type ionization chamber and Farmer 2570/1 electrometer from NE Technology were used to measure the delivered dose in solid water phantom. All the measurements were performed on Varian CL21EX linear accelerator (Varian Medical Systems, Palo Alto, CA) fitted with a Millennium 120 leaf collimator. In this study the mean value of the percent of passing pixels within the region of interest under the criterion of 3% DD and 3mm DTA is 90.2+/-7.1% for head and neck cases and 92.2+/-5.8% for non-head and neck cases. If we choose the criteria of 3% DD and 3mm DTA then 96.3% head and neck plans have the percent of passing pixels>or=75% and 95.1% non-head and neck plans have the percent of passing pixels>or=80%. It is evident from the results of this study that the criterion of 5% DD and 3mm DTA with the percent of passing pixels>or=90 for non-head and neck cases while the percent of passing pixels>or=85 for head and neck cases endorse that a plan is good. The results of this study may be useful for other institutions which use verification software and EBT films for patient specific IMRT QA.}, }
@article {pmid19606920, year = {2009}, author = {Alati, R and Gunnell, D and Najman, J and Williams, G and Lawlor, D}, title = {Is IQ in childhood associated with suicidal thoughts and attempts? Findings from the Mater University Study of Pregnancy and its outcomes.}, journal = {Suicide &amp; life-threatening behavior}, volume = {39}, number = {3}, pages = {282-293}, doi = {10.1521/suli.2009.39.3.282}, pmid = {19606920}, issn = {0363-0234}, support = {G0600705/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; *Intelligence ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; *Motivation ; Pregnancy ; Queensland ; Statistics as Topic ; Suicide, Attempted/*psychology ; *Thinking ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {This study explores associations of IQ at age 14 with adult symptoms of suicidal thoughts and attempts at age 21. Analysis was based on the Mater University Study of Pregnancy and its outcomes, an Australian prospective birth cohort study started in Brisbane Australia in 1981. We assessed associations with suicide thoughts, plans, and attempts. We used two measures of IQ: the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices and the Wide Range Achievement Test. In multivariable analyses, there was an inverse association between Raven's IQ and suicide thoughts, plans, and attempts, but no strong evidence of an association between the WRAT3 and the three suicidal items. Specific aspects of intelligence may be associated with suicidal thoughts, plans, and attempts.}, }
@article {pmid19605383, year = {2009}, author = {Stulp, G and Emery, NJ and Verhulst, S and Clayton, NS}, title = {Western scrub-jays conceal auditory information when competitors can hear but cannot see.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {5}, number = {5}, pages = {583-585}, pmid = {19605383}, issn = {1744-957X}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation ; *Animal Communication ; Animals ; *Competitive Behavior ; Female ; Male ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Photic Stimulation ; Sound ; }, abstract = {Western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) engage in a variety of cache-protection strategies to reduce the chances of cache theft by conspecifics. Many of these strategies revolve around reducing visual information to potential thieves. This study aimed to determine whether the jays also reduce auditory information during caching. Each jay was given the opportunity to cache food in two trays, one of which was filled with small pebbles that made considerable noise when cached in ('noisy' tray), whereas the other one contained soil that made little detectable noise when cached in ('quiet' tray). When the jays could be heard, but not seen, by a competitor, they cached proportionally less food items in the 'noisy' substrate than when they cached alone in the room, or when they could be seen and heard by competitors. These results suggest that western scrub-jays know when to conceal auditory information, namely when a competitor cannot see but can hear the caching event.}, }
@article {pmid19595691, year = {2010}, author = {Rensel, MA and Boughton, RK and Schoech, SJ}, title = {Development of the adrenal stress response in the Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens).}, journal = {General and comparative endocrinology}, volume = {165}, number = {2}, pages = {255-261}, doi = {10.1016/j.ygcen.2009.07.002}, pmid = {19595691}, issn = {1095-6840}, mesh = {Animals ; Corticosterone/*blood ; Gene Expression Regulation ; Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System/metabolism/physiology ; Passeriformes/*blood/metabolism ; Pituitary-Adrenal System/metabolism/physiology ; Radioimmunoassay ; Stress, Physiological/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Nestlings of altricial species undergo a period of substantial growth and development in the nest after hatching. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis regulates the release of stress hormones such as corticosterone, which in adults is critical in allowing an animal to respond to a stressor. However, activation of this axis in young birds may be detrimental to growth and possibly survival. The developmental hypothesis predicts that altricial nestlings should display a dampened corticosterone response to stress as a means of protection against the potentially harmful effects of elevated corticosterone. We examined this hypothesis in Florida scrub-jays, a cooperatively breeding species with altricial young. Blood samples were collected from nestlings, nutritionally independent young, and yearlings for measurement of corticosterone levels. Baseline corticosterone levels did not differ between age-classes; however, stress-induced corticosterone levels were highest in yearlings, intermediate in independent young, and lowest in nestlings. The nestling stress response was also of a shorter duration than the response in independent young and yearlings. This variation in stress responsiveness across ages may be an adaptive mechanism to protect the developing bird from the negative effects of corticosterone on growth and cognitive development.}, }
@article {pmid19580114, year = {2009}, author = {Enoch, JM and Lakshminarayanan, V}, title = {75th Anniversary of the Stiles-Crawford Effect(s): a celebratory special symposium, October 23, 2008; Rochester, New York.}, journal = {Hindsight (Saint Louis, Mo.)}, volume = {40}, number = {1}, pages = {3-24}, pmid = {19580114}, issn = {2374-3263}, mesh = {Biomedical Research/history/instrumentation ; England ; Eye Diseases/diagnosis/*history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Ocular Physiological Phenomena ; Ophthalmology/*history ; Ophthalmoscopes/*history ; Optics and Photonics/*history ; }, abstract = {There are rather few articles which, so-to-speak, serve to change the landscape in a scientific field. One of those was the discovery of the "directional sensitivity of the retina" by Walter Stanley Stiles and Brian Hewson Crawford (first reported in 1933). Subsequently, their findings were subdivided by Hansen into two logical components, "the Stiles-Crawford Effects of the First and Second Kinds, (SCE- 1 and SCE-2)." The former (SCE-1) dealt with aspects of their research which addressed alterations in perceived brightness of a visual stimulus; the second (SCE-2) was associated with the perceived hue and saturation of these visual stimuli. These discoveries arose out of a failed attempt by W.S. Stiles and B.H. Crawford to measure properly the areas of the entrance pupils of their experimental subjects as part of a research program which addressed problems of glare, e.g., disability glare, in illuminating engineering. Their research was conducted at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), which is located in Teddington, Middlesex, England. These two fine scientists properly deduced the reason for the failure of their experimental design, and they effectively described and defined a new feature of the visual system which was largely ascribed to the retina. In time, it was realized that this phenomenon was associated in large measure with the waveguide/fiber-optics properties of photoreceptors, and that this was a feature shared by virtually all vertebrate species. This paper is divided into two parts. In the first part, Enoch describes, as best he can, the culture and working conditions at NPL during 1959/60 when he served as a post-doctoral fellow with W.S. Stiles. And in the second part of this paper, the authors describe the findings of W.S. Stiles and B.H. Crawford at the time of their discovery. Today, we celebrate the 75th Anniversary of that research. The organizing committee for this program (alphabetically) is David Atchison, Jay M. Enoch, Vasudevan Lakshminarayanan, and Pieter Walraven. Our group of speakers today will follow with discussions of aspects of subsequent work which has evolved from the initial discoveries made by the late W.S. Stiles and B.H. Crawford.}, }
@article {pmid19579789, year = {2009}, author = {Słodkowicz-Kowalska, A}, title = {[Animal reservoirs of human virulent microsporidian species].}, journal = {Wiadomosci parazytologiczne}, volume = {55}, number = {1}, pages = {63-65}, pmid = {19579789}, issn = {0043-5163}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Domestic/classification/*parasitology ; Birds/*parasitology ; Disease Reservoirs/*microbiology ; Disease Vectors/*classification ; Feces/microbiology ; Host-Parasite Interactions ; Humans ; Microsporidia/*classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; Microsporidiosis/microbiology/*transmission ; Poland ; Prevalence ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The main objective of the present study was to determined the occurrence of Encephalitozoon intestinalis, E. hellem, E. cuniculi, and Enterocytozoon bieneusi in Poland in animal faecal using the FISH (Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization) and multiplex FISH techniques. Additional objectives included: (1) identification of animal hosts of microsporidia that are infectious to humans amongst free-ranging, captive, livestock and domestic animals; (2) a molecular analysis of randomly selected parasite isolates and determination of their zoonotic potential; (3) evaluation of the role of animals in the dissemination of microsporidia spores in the environment, and an estimation of the potential risk of infection for other animals and humans. A total of 1340 faecal samples collected from 178 species of animals were examined using conventional staining (chromotrope-2R and calcofluor white M2R staining) and molecular techniques (FISH and multiplex FISH techniques). Microsporidian spores were detected in 33 faecal samples (2.5%) obtained from 17 animal species. Microsporidia were demonstrated more often in birds (6.1%) than in mammals (0.7%); the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.00001). In addition, the prevalence of microsporidian infections in waterfowl was significantly higher than the prevalence of microsporidian infections in other animals (p < 0.03). Animal reservoirs of human infectious microsporidia were disclosed in six of 38 sites where faecal samples were taken from animals. Three species of human virulent microsporidia were identified in animals. Spores of E. hellem were found in 25 faecal samples (1.9%) taken from 12 bird species (6 zoo bird species, 4 free-ranging bird species, 2 livestock bird species). Spores of E. intestinalis were identified in five faecal samples (0.4%) taken from two livestock bird species and two zoo mammal species. In turn, E. bieneusi spores were detected only in three faecal samples (0.2%) taken from three zoo mammal species. It was demonstrated that the new hosts of E. hellem are the following bird species: mallard duck (Anas platyrhynchos), greyleg goose (Anser anser), mute swan (Cygnus olor), black-necked swan (Cygnus melancoryphus), black swan (Cygnus atratus), coscoroba swan (Coscoroba coscoroba), black-crowned crane (Balearica pavonina), nicobar pigeon (Caloenas nicobarica) and carrion crow (Corvus cornix). In addition, E. hellem was found for the first time in birds from the Anseriformes and Gruiformes orders. Whereas E. intestinalis was disclosed for the first time in the domestic goose (Anser anser f. domestica), red ruffed lemur (Varecia variegata rubra) and the ring-tailed lemur (Lemur catta), while the black lemur (Eulemur macaco flavifrons), mongoose lemur (Eulemur mongoz) and the Visayan warty pig (Sus cebifrons negrinus) were first found to carry E. bieneusi. The mammal species that were found to carry E. bieneusi and E. intestinalis are included in The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The results of the present study are significant from an epidemiological point of view. The wild, livestock and zoo animals that were found to carry microsporidia live in different conditions, and thus their role as animal reservoirs for these dangerous pathogens varies. Waterfowl birds may be the main source of contamination of surface waters with E. hellem spores and the protection of surface waters is virtually impossible. Moreover, isolates of E. hellem from mute swans have SSU rRNA sequences identical to E. hellem genotype reported 10 years ago in HIV-positive patient in USA (GenBank Accession no. L19070). This result indicate that E. hellem from mute swans can be a potential source of infection for humans. The contamination of the human environment with microsporidian spores infectious to humans is also facilitated by farm and synanthropic birds, because E. hellem and E. intestinalis were found in farms pigeons, domestic goose and the carrion crow. These birds can also be the source of infectious for breeders and ornithologists. The occurrence of microsporidiosis in animals kept in zoological gardens may constitute a deadly hazard not only for the animals themselves, but also for zoo personnel and visitors. The identification of animal reservoirs of E. hellem, E. intestinalis and E. bieneusi in Poland points to the possibility of infection of humans. The results of the present study have shown that the FISH technique, although time-consuming, is very sensitive, not overly costly and--what is of prime importance--it enables identification of microsporidian species, and therefore should be used for diagnosing microsporidiosis in humans and animals.}, }
@article {pmid19572219, year = {2010}, author = {Der, G and Allerhand, M and Starr, JM and Hofer, SM and Deary, IJ}, title = {Age-related changes in memory and fluid reasoning in a sample of healthy old people.}, journal = {Neuropsychology, development, and cognition. Section B, Aging, neuropsychology and cognition}, volume = {17}, number = {1}, pages = {55-70}, pmid = {19572219}, issn = {1744-4128}, support = {MC_U130059821/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; R01 AG026453/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; SPHSU2/CSO_/Chief Scientist Office/United Kingdom ; MC_U130059823/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; G0700704/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Aging ; *Cognition ; Cohort Studies ; Dementia ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; *Memory ; Models, Statistical ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Thinking ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Participants in the Healthy Old People in Edinburgh (HOPE) study (N = 398) were assessed on Raven's Progressive Matrices and Logical Memory on up to three occasions. Covariates included education, social class, disease and medication status, blood pressure and study outcome. Raven's score declined linearly with age, whereas decline in Logical Memory was accelerating. There was significant variation in individuals' rates of decline for Ravens but not Logical Memory. Slope-intercept covariances were not significant. Those who later developed dementia already exhibited lower scores, more so for Logical Memory than Raven's. Death and study attrition were related to performance, again greater for Logical Memory.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The HOPE approach of progressive screening is a feasible and practical method for studying healthy cognitive ageing. As predicted for an initially healthy sample, rates of decline were relatively homogeneous. The hypothesis of differential decline was not supported, nor was a strict interpretation of the hypothesis that cognitive ageing is entirely pathology driven.}, }
@article {pmid19570777, year = {2009}, author = {Bodey, TW and McDonald, RA and Bearhop, S}, title = {Mesopredators constrain a top predator: competitive release of ravens after culling crows.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {5}, number = {5}, pages = {617-620}, pmid = {19570777}, issn = {1744-957X}, mesh = {Animals ; Competitive Behavior ; Conservation of Natural Resources/methods ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; *Food Chain ; Male ; Population Density ; *Predatory Behavior ; }, abstract = {Although predator control programmes rarely consider complex competitive interactions among predators, it is becoming clear that removal of larger 'superior' competitors often releases the 'inferior' ones and can precipitate trophic cascades. In contrast, our study indicates that culling hooded crows Corvus cornix appears to release a larger competitor, the common raven Corvus corax. Ravens ranged more widely, and the predation of artificial nests was significantly faster (although total predation was similar), after the removal of crows. Our study provides evidence of a novel reversal of competitive release where a larger species was freed from constraints imposed on its distribution and behaviour by a smaller species, and emphasizes the importance of considering community and ecosystem effects of predator manipulations when undertaken for conservation or game management.}, }
@article {pmid19569472, year = {2009}, author = {Olsen, GH and Miller, KJ and Docherty, DE and Bochsler, VS and Sileo, L}, title = {Pathogenicity of West Nile virus and response to vaccination in sandhill cranes (Grus canadensis) using a killed vaccine.}, journal = {Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine : official publication of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians}, volume = {40}, number = {2}, pages = {263-271}, doi = {10.1638/2008-0017.1}, pmid = {19569472}, issn = {1042-7260}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*prevention &amp; control ; Birds ; Female ; Male ; Maryland/epidemiology ; Vaccines, Inactivated/administration &amp; dosage/immunology ; Viremia/epidemiology/prevention &amp; control/veterinary ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/prevention &amp; control/*veterinary ; West Nile Virus Vaccines/*administration &amp; dosage/*immunology ; *West Nile virus/immunology/pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus was introduced into the United States in the vicinity of New York, New York, USA in 1999. The virus has since killed large numbers of birds nationwide, especially, but not limited to, crows (Corvus brachyrhinchos). One sandhill crane (Grus canadensis) at the Bridgeport Zoo (Bridgeport, Connecticut, USA) reportedly died from West Nile virus, so sandhill cranes and endangered whooping cranes (Grus americana), both in the wild and in captive breeding colonies at United States Geological Service (USGS) Patuxent Wildlife Research Center (Laurel, Maryland, USA) were considered at risk. A killed vaccine in sandhill cranes was evaluated by vaccinating and then challenging these cranes with live West Nile virus. No sandhill cranes inoculated with the killed vaccine developed significant titers when compared with unvaccinated controls. No sandhill cranes inoculated with the vaccine and challenged with the virus died from West Nile virus infection. In addition, no unvaccinated challenged sandhill cranes died. However, 2 days postchallenge, vaccinated cranes had significantly less viremia (P < 0.05) than unvaccinated cranes. Seven days postchallenge vaccinated cranes had significantly less cloacal shedding of the virus (P < 0.05) than unvaccinated cranes and significantly less weight loss (P < 0.05) as compared with unvaccinated cranes. Vaccinated sandhill cranes developed significantly higher titers 14 days postchallenge and were viremic for shorter periods of time after challenge than unvaccinated individuals. Unvaccinated challenged cranes had glial cell aggregates in both the brain and brain stem areas, and this was not observed in vaccinated challenged cranes or in vaccinated unchallenged cranes.}, }
@article {pmid19566701, year = {2009}, author = {Kassen, R}, title = {Toward a general theory of adaptive radiation: insights from microbial experimental evolution.}, journal = {Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences}, volume = {1168}, number = {}, pages = {3-22}, doi = {10.1111/j.1749-6632.2009.04574.x}, pmid = {19566701}, issn = {1749-6632}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; *Genetic Speciation ; Phylogeny ; Pseudomonas fluorescens/classification/genetics ; }, abstract = {The history of life has been punctuated by unusually spectacular periods of evolutionary diversification called adaptive radiation. Darwin's finches in the Galapagos, cichlid fishes in African Rift and Nicaraguan crater lakes, and the emergence of mammals at the end of the Cretaceous are hallmark examples. Although we have learned much from these and other case studies about the mechanisms thought to drive adaptive radiations, convincing experimental tests of theory are often lacking for the simple reason that it is usually impossible to "rewind the tape of life," as Stephen Jay Gould was fond of saying, and run it again. This situation has changed dramatically in recent years with the increasing emphasis on the use of microbial populations which, because of their small size and rapid generation times, make possible the construction of replicated, manipulative experiments to study evolution in the laboratory. Here I review the contributions that microbial experimental evolution has made to our understanding of the ecological and genetic mechanisms underlying adaptive radiation. I focus on three major gaps in the theory of adaptive radiation--the paucity of direct tests of mechanism, the genetics of diversification, and the limits and constraints on the progress of radiations--with the aim of pointing the way toward the development of a more general theory of adaptive radiation.}, }
@article {pmid21240297, year = {2009}, author = {Cheney, RB}, title = {Reflections of a former vice president on long-time cardiac experiences.}, journal = {Proceedings (Baylor University. Medical Center)}, volume = {22}, number = {3}, pages = {276-278}, doi = {10.1080/08998280.2009.11928531}, pmid = {21240297}, issn = {1525-3252}, abstract = {Editor's Note: Mr. Cheney, 46th vice president of the United States, was the featured guest speaker at the third annual Baylor Health Care System Foundation Heart and Vascular Dinner on April 7, 2009, at the home of Kathy and Harlan Crow (Figures 1 and 2). Previous speakers were former Senator Bob Dole and Denton Cooley, MD. Cheney spoke about his experiences with cardiovascular disease, his 40-year career in public service, and the challenges facing health care. Mr. Cheney has had four heart attacks and numerous other cardiovascular episodes, beginning with his first heart attack when he was 37 years old. The Foundation's Heart and Vascular Campaign, which has raised more than $11.2 million toward its $20 million fundraising goal, supports eight cardiology fellows and four residents in vascular surgery, as well as cardiovascular research at Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas, Baylor Hamilton Heart and Vascular Hospital, and The Heart Hospital Baylor Plano.}, }
@article {pmid20929039, year = {2009}, author = {Ali, MS and Suliman, MI and Kareem, A and Iqbal, M}, title = {Comparison of gender performance on an intelligence test among medical students.}, journal = {Journal of Ayub Medical College, Abbottabad : JAMC}, volume = {21}, number = {3}, pages = {163-165}, pmid = {20929039}, issn = {1025-9589}, mesh = {Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Pakistan ; Sex Factors ; Students, Medical/*psychology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Since the Government of Pakistan abolished the gender based system of admission to medical colleges, all colleges have seen a huge influx of female medical students, reaching up to 70-80% of all students in some colleges. This trend is still persisting about 15 years after the decision. The objectives of the current study were to assess if there is any significant difference between male and female medical students in scores on a structured, standard, robust test of intellectual ability. Exact venue of the research is withheld for confidentiality. The study was carried out in 2003-2005.<br><br>METHODS: A cross-sectional, comparative study with sample size of 150 students, 75 male and 75 female students. Participants signed a consent form, were assessed on Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM), and data was analysed using SPSS-12.<br><br>RESULTS: On the SPM test, the male students as a group, scored higher than the female students as a group, the difference was small but statistically significant (p = 0.015).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Performance on the SPM inclines in favour of the male gender group. More research needs to be carried out into the other possible factors that could explain the gender disparity in medical colleges in Pakistan.}, }
@article {pmid19564501, year = {2009}, author = {Lim, AK and Dunne, G and Gurfield, N}, title = {Rapid bilateral intraocular cocktail sampling method for West Nile virus detection in dead corvids.}, journal = {Journal of veterinary diagnostic investigation : official publication of the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians, Inc}, volume = {21}, number = {4}, pages = {516-519}, doi = {10.1177/104063870902100414}, pmid = {19564501}, issn = {1040-6387}, mesh = {Animals ; Aqueous Humor/*virology ; Crows/*virology ; Peptides ; Population Surveillance ; Predictive Value of Tests ; West Nile Fever/diagnosis/epidemiology/veterinary ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Corvids can be a sensitive indicator for West Nile virus (WNV) prevalence and are a component of many WNV surveillance programs. An improved sampling procedure using a bilateral intraocular cocktail (BIC) was developed for testing corvid carcasses for WNV. This new procedure was substantially faster than harvesting internal organs, required less specialized equipment and training, and yielded excellent diagnostic sensitivity.}, }
@article {pmid19557181, year = {2009}, author = {Colzato, LS and van den Wildenberg, WP and Hommel, B}, title = {Reduced attentional scope in cocaine polydrug users.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {4}, number = {6}, pages = {e6043}, pmid = {19557181}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Adult ; Attention/*drug effects ; Case-Control Studies ; Cocaine/*adverse effects ; Cocaine-Related Disorders/psychology ; Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Illicit Drugs ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving ; Substance-Related Disorders/*psychology ; }, abstract = {Cocaine is Europe's second preferred recreational drug after cannabis but very little is known about possible cognitive impairments in the upcoming type of recreational cocaine user (monthly consumption). We asked whether recreational use of cocaine impacts early attentional selection processes. Cocaine-free polydrug controls (n = 18) and cocaine polydrug users (n = 18) were matched on sex, age, alcohol consumption, and IQ (using the Raven's progressive matrices), and were tested by using the Global-Local task to measure the scope of attention. Cocaine polydrug users attended significantly more to local aspects of attended events, which fits with the idea that a reduced scope of attention may be associated with the perpetuation of the use of the drug.}, }
@article {pmid19556585, year = {2009}, author = {Docherty, DE and Samuel, MD and Egstad, KF and Griffin, KM and Nolden, CA and Karwal, L and Ip, HS}, title = {Changes in West Nile virus seroprevalence and antibody titers among Wisconsin mesopredators 2003-2006.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {81}, number = {1}, pages = {177-179}, pmid = {19556585}, issn = {1476-1645}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/*blood ; Coyotes/*virology ; Opossums/*virology ; Raccoons/*virology ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; Time Factors ; West Nile virus/*immunology ; Wisconsin/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {After the 2001 occurrence of West Nile virus (WNV) in Wisconsin (WI), we collected sera, during 2003-2006, from south-central WI mesopredators. We tested these sera to determine WNV antibody prevalence and geometric mean antibody titer (GMAT). Four-fold higher antibody prevalence and 2-fold higher GMAT in 2003-2004 indicated greater exposure of mesopredators to WNV during the apparent epizootic phase. The period 2005-2006 was likely the enzootic phase because WNV antibody prevalence fell to a level similar to other flaviviruses. Our results suggest that, in mesopredators, vector-borne transmission is the primary route of infection and WNV antibodies persist for < 1 year. Mesopredators may be sensitive indicators of West Nile virus spill-over into humans and horses. Mesopredator sero-surveys may complement dead crow surveillance by providing additional data for the timing of public health interventions. Research is needed to clarify the dynamics of WNV infection in these mammals and their role as potential WNV amplifiers.}, }
@article {pmid19552828, year = {2009}, author = {Liczbińska, G}, title = {Infant and child mortality among Catholics and Lutherans in nineteenth century Poznan.}, journal = {Journal of biosocial science}, volume = {41}, number = {5}, pages = {661-683}, doi = {10.1017/S0021932009990101}, pmid = {19552828}, issn = {1469-7599}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Catholicism/*history ; Child ; Child Mortality/*history/trends ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Health Status ; Health Status Disparities ; History, 19th Century ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant Mortality/*history/trends ; Infant, Newborn ; Male ; Mortality ; Poland ; Protestantism/*history ; Qualitative Research ; Reproducibility of Results ; Risk Factors ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to show the differences in the mortality rates of children from Catholic and Lutheran families in 19th century Poznań, and to elucidate the causes of these differences. Data from Catholic and Lutheran parish death registers were used. The infant death rate (IDR), neonatal and postneonatal death rates and life table biometric functions were calculated and causes of deaths were characterized. The worst child mortality values (IDR=394.4; neonatal and postneonatal death rates, respectively, 117.1 and 277.4; e0=16.14 years; Crow's Index=2.47) were obtained for the poor Catholic Parish of St Margaret. The lowest infant and neonatal and postneonatal death rates were observed to have occurred in the Catholic Parish of St Maria Magdalena situated in the city's more affluent central area (mortality rates, respectively, 269.9, 93.1 and 176.9; e0=24.63 years; Crow's Index=0.96). The widest range of differences with regard to death rates was found for the Lutheran Parish of St Cross (the infant, neonatal and postneonatal death rates were, respectively, 293.1, 99.1 and 193.9; e0=28.03 years; Crow's Index=0.92). The St Cross Parish encompassed a fairly large area of the city characterized by varying ecological conditions. Among infants and young children from the three studied populations a high frequency of deaths due to infectious diseases, diarrhoeas, dysenteries and tuberculosis were observed. Differences in the mortality of children from Catholic and Lutheran families in 19th century Poznań resulted from ecological conditions, among which water played the most important role, rather than from religious differences.}, }
@article {pmid19544727, year = {2009}, author = {Heiss, RS and Clark, AB and McGowan, KJ}, title = {Growth and nutritional state of American Crow nestlings vary between urban and rural habitats.}, journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America}, volume = {19}, number = {4}, pages = {829-839}, doi = {10.1890/08-0140.1}, pmid = {19544727}, issn = {1051-0761}, support = {R21-1064305-01//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Blood Proteins/*metabolism ; Calcium/*blood ; Corticosterone/*blood ; Crows/blood/*growth &amp; development ; Dietary Supplements ; *Ecosystem ; Feeding Behavior ; Malnutrition/blood/therapy/veterinary ; Nesting Behavior ; New York ; Rural Population ; Suburban Population ; }, abstract = {In urbanized areas, many adult birds find sufficient foods to survive, but the anthropogenic foods that are abundant there may be detrimental to nestling growth. In fact, American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) nestlings are smaller in suburban than rural areas, possibly because of nutrient limitation. Here, we seek to identify possible causes of size differences by comparing both size and blood chemistry measures in rural and suburban crow nestlings. We quantified land use in known crow territories and distinguished three distinct environments: suburban-residential, suburban-managed (e.g., golf courses), and rural. We measured nestlings near fledging age in each environment and bled them for determination of unbound plasma calcium, total protein, and corticosterone. We supplemented a subset of broods in suburban-residential and rural areas with a food high in protein and calcium. Rural nestlings were significantly larger than suburban-residential crows and had higher total serum protein. Nestlings in suburban-managed areas were intermediate in size and serum protein but had the lowest plasma calcium levels. Nestling corticosterone levels did not differ significantly among habitats, indicating that, although suburban nestlings may be food-limited, they were not starving. Supplemented nestlings in suburban-residential areas were significantly larger in some growth measures than their unsupplemented counterparts. Unexpectedly, supplemented rural nestlings were significantly smaller than unsupplemented rural ones, suggesting that parents use easily accessible food even when it is nutritionally suboptimal. Our results indicate that nestlings in suburban areas are nutrient restricted, rather than calorie restricted.}, }
@article {pmid19530215, year = {2009}, author = {Soulières, I and Dawson, M and Samson, F and Barbeau, EB and Sahyoun, CP and Strangman, GE and Zeffiro, TA and Mottron, L}, title = {Enhanced visual processing contributes to matrix reasoning in autism.}, journal = {Human brain mapping}, volume = {30}, number = {12}, pages = {4082-4107}, pmid = {19530215}, issn = {1097-0193}, support = {MOP-84243/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; P41 RR14075/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; P41 RR014075/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; AS2706/AS/Autism Speaks/United States ; P41 RR014075-10/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Autistic Disorder/*physiopathology ; *Brain Mapping ; Female ; Humans ; Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Reaction Time/physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Recent behavioral investigations have revealed that autistics perform more proficiently on Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) than would be predicted by their Wechsler intelligence scores. A widely-used test of fluid reasoning and intelligence, the RSPM assays abilities to flexibly infer rules, manage goal hierarchies, and perform high-level abstractions. The neural substrates for these abilities are known to encompass a large frontoparietal network, with different processing models placing variable emphasis on the specific roles of the prefrontal or posterior regions. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging to explore the neural bases of autistics' RSPM problem solving. Fifteen autistic and eighteen non-autistic participants, matched on age, sex, manual preference and Wechsler IQ, completed 60 self-paced randomly-ordered RSPM items along with a visually similar 60-item pattern matching comparison task. Accuracy and response times did not differ between groups in the pattern matching task. In the RSPM task, autistics performed with similar accuracy, but with shorter response times, compared to their non-autistic controls. In both the entire sample and a subsample of participants additionally matched on RSPM performance to control for potential response time confounds, neural activity was similar in both groups for the pattern matching task. However, for the RSPM task, autistics displayed relatively increased task-related activity in extrastriate areas (BA18), and decreased activity in the lateral prefrontal cortex (BA9) and the medial posterior parietal cortex (BA7). Visual processing mechanisms may therefore play a more prominent role in reasoning in autistics.}, }
@article {pmid19521732, year = {2010}, author = {Guerrissi, JO}, title = {Periorbital rejuvenation: a safe subcutaneous approach to forehead, eyebrow, and orbicularis oculis muscle mobilization.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {34}, number = {2}, pages = {147-152}, doi = {10.1007/s00266-009-9356-6}, pmid = {19521732}, issn = {1432-5241}, mesh = {Adult ; Blepharoplasty/*methods ; Blepharoptosis/*surgery ; *Eyebrows ; Eyelids/*surgery ; Facial Muscles/*anatomy &amp; histology/*surgery ; Female ; Forehead/*surgery ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Orbit/*surgery ; Plastic Surgery Procedures/*methods ; *Rejuvenation ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; Skin Aging ; *Suture Techniques ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Periorbital rejuvenation constitutes a common and much demanded claim. With aging face, fascial attachments and ligamentous supports become attenuated, and therefore, skin, orbicular muscle, malar fat and lateral eyebrow descend in middle-age women. Conventional facelift and standard blepharoplasty does not give an effective periorbital rejuvenation.<br><br>METHODS: This technique was applied in 142 patients from 1999 to 2006 to treat periorbital aging. All patients were 35 to 55 years old, and 94.5% were female. Through an incision located in the hair line or inside the temporal portion of scalp, a wide subcutaneous dissection of temporal, forehead and eyelid areas was done. This allows undermining and suspension of the orbicularis oculis muscle with partial denervation and the concomitant treatment of crow's feet, lateral muscular cantoplasty, elevation of the malar fat, superolateral traction of the eyebrow and resection of excess skin. Blepharoplasty or a conventional facelift was included if necessary.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 130 patients (91%) presented satisfactory results. In 16 patients (11 %) , partial infection of the temporal wound was detected; in other 12 (9 %), asymmetry of eyebrows was present, of which 9 (75%) corrected spontaneously after 3 months and in other 3 (25 %), a reoperation was necessary. No major complications were observed.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This technique allows a rational correction of all affected periorbital tissues, including forehead, eyebrow, eyelids, canthal ligaments, orbicularis muscle, malar fat and both periorbital and cheek skin with superior and superolateral vectors of traction. This is a safe and easy technique.}, }
@article {pmid19520803, year = {2009}, author = {Salomons, HM and Mulder, GA and van de Zande, L and Haussmann, MF and Linskens, MH and Verhulst, S}, title = {Telomere shortening and survival in free-living corvids.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {276}, number = {1670}, pages = {3157-3165}, pmid = {19520803}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/genetics/*physiology ; Longevity/genetics ; Oxidative Stress/genetics ; Telomere/*metabolism ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Evidence accumulates that telomere shortening reflects lifestyle and predicts remaining lifespan, but little is known of telomere dynamics and their relation to survival under natural conditions. We present longitudinal telomere data in free-living jackdaws (Corvus monedula) and test hypotheses on telomere shortening and survival. Telomeres in erythrocytes were measured using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. Telomere shortening rates within individuals were twice as high as the population level slope, demonstrating that individuals with short telomeres are less likely to survive. Further analysis showed that shortening rate in particular predicted survival, because telomere shortening was much accelerated during a bird's last year in the colony. Telomere shortening was also faster early in life, even after growth was completed. It was previously shown that the lengths of the shortest telomeres best predict cellular senescence, suggesting that shorter telomeres should be better protected. We test the latter hypothesis and show that, within individuals, long telomeres shorten faster than short telomeres in adults and nestlings, a result not previously shown in vivo. Moreover, survival selection in adults was most conspicuous on relatively long telomeres. In conclusion, our longitudinal data indicate that the shortening rate of long telomeres may be a measure of 'life stress' and hence holds promise as a biomarker of remaining lifespan.}, }
@article {pmid19514810, year = {2009}, author = {Konrad, SK and Miller, SN and Reeves, WK and Tietze, NS}, title = {Spatially explicit West Nile virus risk modeling in Santa Clara County, California.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {267-274}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2008.0084}, pmid = {19514810}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Animals ; California ; Computer Simulation ; Crows/virology ; Culex/*virology ; *Geographic Information Systems ; Insect Vectors/virology ; *Models, Biological ; Risk Factors ; Time Factors ; West Nile virus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {A geographic information system model designed to identify regions at risk for West Nile virus (WNV) transmission was calibrated and tested with data collected in Santa Clara County, California. American Crows that died from WNV infection in 2005 provided spatial and temporal ground truth. When the model was run with parameters based on Culex tarsalis infected with the NY99 genotype of the virus, it underestimated WNV occurrence in Santa Clara Co. The parameters were calibrated to fit the field data by reducing the number of degree-days necessary to reach the mosquito's extrinsic incubation period from 109 to 76. The calibration raised model efficiency from 61% to 92% accuracy, and the model performed well the following year in Santa Clara Co.}, }
@article {pmid19506998, year = {2009}, author = {Squizzato, A and Moja, L and Gensini, GF and Gusinu, R and Conti, AA}, title = {Is thrombolysis for intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism beneficial? The case of Emeritus Professor Crow.}, journal = {Internal and emergency medicine}, volume = {4}, number = {4}, pages = {339-341}, pmid = {19506998}, issn = {1970-9366}, }
@article {pmid19490396, year = {2009}, author = {Tsukahara, N and Kamata, N and Nagasawa, M and Sugita, S}, title = {Bilateral innervation of syringeal muscles by the hypoglossal nucleus in the jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Journal of anatomy}, volume = {215}, number = {2}, pages = {141-149}, pmid = {19490396}, issn = {1469-7580}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Female ; Horseradish Peroxidase ; Hypoglossal Nerve/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Male ; Muscle, Skeletal/anatomy &amp; histology/*innervation ; Trachea/anatomy &amp; histology/*innervation ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Bird vocalizations are produced by contractions of syringeal muscles, which are controlled by the hypoglossal nucleus. In oscines, syringeal muscles are controlled by the hypoglossal nucleus ipsilaterally, whereas syringeal innervation is bilateral in non-oscines. We have determined the course of hypoglossal nerves in the jungle crow Corvus macrorhynchos. Our results indicate a cross-over of the hypoglossal nerve from the left side to the right side on the trachea 7 mm rostral to the Musculus sternotrachealis. We also investigated the innervation of the syringeal muscles of jungle crows from the hypoglossal nucleus using the horseradish peroxidase (HRP) method. After HRP was injected into the syringeal muscles on each side, HRP-labeled cells were found bilaterally in the hypoglossal nerve. These results suggest that the syringeal muscles of jungle crows are innervated bilaterally from the hypoglossal nucleus, although these birds are categorized as oscines.}, }
@article {pmid19485023, year = {2009}, author = {Capron, AM}, title = {The legacy of Jay Katz: the abiding relevance of the "obligation for conversation" in the physician-patient relationship.}, journal = {Journal of health &amp; life sciences law}, volume = {2}, number = {3}, pages = {1-27}, pmid = {19485023}, issn = {1942-4736}, mesh = {Bioethical Issues ; History, 20th Century ; Human Rights ; Humans ; *Physician-Patient Relations ; }, }
@article {pmid19482733, year = {2009}, author = {Broekman, BF and Chan, YH and Chong, YS and Quek, SC and Fung, D and Low, YL and Ooi, YP and Gluckman, PD and Meaney, MJ and Wong, TY and Saw, SM}, title = {The influence of birth size on intelligence in healthy children.}, journal = {Pediatrics}, volume = {123}, number = {6}, pages = {e1011-6}, doi = {10.1542/peds.2008-3344}, pmid = {19482733}, issn = {1098-4275}, mesh = {*Birth Weight ; *Body Height ; Cephalometry/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Child ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; *Gestational Age ; Health Surveys ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; Infant, Premature/*psychology ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Reference Values ; Singapore ; Statistics as Topic ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Birth parameters have been hypothesized to have an influence on IQ. However, studies within the range of normal birth size have been sparse. With this study we examined the associations between birth length, birth weight, head circumference, and gestational age within the normal birth size range in relation to childhood IQ in Asian children.<br><br>METHODS: A cohort of 1979 of 2913 Asian children aged 7 to 9 years, recruited from 3 schools in Singapore, were followed yearly from 1999 onward. Birth parameters were recorded by health personnel. Childhood IQ was measured with the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices at ages 8 to 12.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean IQ score across the sample (n = 1645) was 114.2. After controlling for multiple confounders for every 1-cm increment in birth length, 1 kg in birth weight, or 1 cm in head circumference, there was a corresponding increase in IQ of 0.49 points (P for trend < .001), 2.19 points (P for trend = .007) and .62 points (P for trend = .003), respectively. These associations persisted even after exclusion of premature children and children with extreme weights and head circumferences.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Longer birth length, higher birth weight, or larger head circumferences within the normal birth size range are associated with higher IQ scores in Asian children. Our results suggest that antenatal factors reflected in altered rates of growth but within the normative range of pregnancy experiences play a role in generating cognitive potential. This has implications for targeting early intervention and preventative programs.}, }
@article {pmid19478068, year = {2009}, author = {Bird, CD and Emery, NJ}, title = {Insightful problem solving and creative tool modification by captive nontool-using rooks.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {106}, number = {25}, pages = {10370-10375}, pmid = {19478068}, issn = {1091-6490}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; *Creativity ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; *Problem Solving ; Reward ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The ability to use tools has been suggested to indicate advanced physical cognition in animals. Here we show that rooks, a member of the corvid family that do not appear to use tools in the wild are capable of insightful problem solving related to sophisticated tool use, including spontaneously modifying and using a variety of tools, shaping hooks out of wire, and using a series of tools in a sequence to gain a reward. It is remarkable that a species that does not use tools in the wild appears to possess an understanding of tools rivaling habitual tool users such as New Caledonian crows and chimpanzees. Our findings suggest that the ability to represent tools may be a domain-general cognitive capacity rather than an adaptive specialization and questions the relationship between physical intelligence and wild tool use.}, }
@article {pmid19474047, year = {2009}, author = {Griesser, M}, title = {Mobbing calls signal predator category in a kin group-living bird species.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {276}, number = {1669}, pages = {2887-2892}, pmid = {19474047}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Hawks/*physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Predatory Behavior ; *Social Behavior ; Strigiformes/*physiology ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Many prey species gather together to approach and harass their predators despite the associated risks. While mobbing, prey usually utter calls and previous experiments have demonstrated that mobbing calls can convey information about risk to conspecifics. However, the risk posed by predators also differs between predator categories. The ability to communicate predator category would be adaptive because it would allow other mobbers to adjust their risk taking. I tested this idea in Siberian jays Perisoreus infaustus, a group-living bird species, by exposing jay groups to mounts of three hawk and three owl species of varying risks. Groups immediately approached to mob the mount and uttered up to 14 different call types. Jays gave more calls when mobbing a more dangerous predator and when in the presence of kin. Five call types were predator-category-specific and jays uttered two hawk-specific and three owl-specific call types. Thus, this is one of the first studies to demonstrate that mobbing calls can simultaneously encode information about both predator category and the risk posed by a predator. Since antipredator calls of Siberian jays are known to specifically aim at reducing the risk to relatives, kin-based sociality could be an important factor in facilitating the evolution of predator-category-specific mobbing calls.}, }
@article {pmid19471849, year = {2009}, author = {Gago, MF and Garrett, MC and Fonseca, MR and Rosas, MJ and Simões, MF and Vieira, S and Botelho, F}, title = {How do cognitive and axial motor signs correlate in Parkinson's disease? A 6-year prospective study.}, journal = {Journal of neurology}, volume = {256}, number = {10}, pages = {1655-1662}, pmid = {19471849}, issn = {1432-1459}, mesh = {Cohort Studies ; Dementia/*epidemiology ; Disease Progression ; Dyskinesias/*epidemiology ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/*epidemiology ; Prospective Studies ; Severity of Illness Index ; Speech Disorders/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Impairment of Parkinson's disease (PD) axial motor signs (AMS) has been described as a risk factor for dementia. Executive dysfunction is an important feature in recently proposed clinical diagnostic criteria for PD dementia. To clarify the relationship between AMS progression and executive cognitive performance, we conducted a 6-year prospective study in PD patients without AMS impairment at baseline. A hospital-based cohort of PD patients (n = 24) without dementia, in the initial motor stage (Hoehn-Yahr < or = 2), and matched controls (n = 20) were followed prospectively over a 6-year period. Neuropsychological tests were performed in both groups, and motor function (including AMS: speech, gait, postural instability) was evaluated in the PD group. The PD group had a significantly higher decline in neuropsychological test scores than did the controls. Most of the neuropsychological and motor decline occurred in the last 4 years. In UPDRS III, progression of AMS and especially speech were the most important motor variables related to dementia. There was a correlation between speech impairment progression and declines in MMSE (r = -0.598, p = 0.002), Clock Drawing (r = -0.671, p < 0.001), Semantic Verbal Fluency (r = -0.435, p = 0.034), Alternating Sequences (r = 0.497, p = 0.014), and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (r = -0.735, p < 0.001). PD patients with higher speech impairment progression showed more rapid declines in some neuropsychological tests. Further studies are needed to clarify the different roles of speech, gait and postural instability on the initial phases of cognitive dysfunction.}, }
@article {pmid19467028, year = {2009}, author = {Borkow, G and Gabbay, J and Lyakhovitsky, A and Huszar, M}, title = {Improvement of facial skin characteristics using copper oxide containing pillowcases: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel, randomized study.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {31}, number = {6}, pages = {437-443}, doi = {10.1111/j.1468-2494.2009.00515.x}, pmid = {19467028}, issn = {1468-2494}, mesh = {Administration, Cutaneous ; Adult ; *Bedding and Linens ; Copper/*administration &amp; dosage ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; Surface Properties ; }, abstract = {Copper plays a key role in several processes of skin formation and regeneration. Copper has been shown to be absorbed through intact skin. We hypothesized that sleeping on fabrics containing copper-impregnated fibres would have a positive cosmetic effect on the skin. The aim of this study was to confirm our hypothesis. A 4-week, double blind, parallel, randomized study was carried out in which 57 volunteers aged 40-60 years used either copper oxide containing pillowcases (0.4% weight/weight) or control pillowcases not containing copper. Photographs were taken by a professional photographer of each participant at the beginning of the study and at 2 and 4 weeks after the commencement of the study. Two expert graders (a dermatologist and a cosmetologist) evaluated the pictures for the effect on several cosmetic facial skin characteristics. The copper-containing pillowcases had a positive effect for the following facial characteristics: reduction of wrinkles (P < 0.001) and crow's feet/fine lines (P < 0.001) and improvement of general appearance (P < 0.001) at both 2 and 4 weeks. The differences were statistically significant (Wilcoxon scores and chi-squared tests). Consistent sleeping for 4 weeks on copper oxide containing pillowcases caused a significant reduction in the appearance of facial wrinkles and crow's feet/fine lines and significant improvement in the appearance of facial skin. In most trial participants, this effect was already noticeable within 2 weeks of using the copper oxide containing pillowcases.}, }
@article {pmid19466468, year = {2009}, author = {Feeney, MC and Roberts, WA and Sherry, DF}, title = {Memory for what, where, and when in the black-capped chickadee (Poecile atricapillus).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {12}, number = {6}, pages = {767-777}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-009-0236-x}, pmid = {19466468}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior ; Memory/*physiology ; Retention, Psychology ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Episodic memory is the ability to remember personally experienced past events (Tulving in Organization of memory. Academic Press, San Diego, pp. 381-403, 1972). In non-human animals, the behavioural criterion for episodic-like memory is remembering "what" occurred in conjunction with "when" and "where" (Clayton and Dickinson in Nature 395:272-274, 1998). We conducted tests for "what, where, and when" memory in a food-storing bird, the black-capped chickadee (Poecile atricapillus). In Experiment 1, chickadees found sunflower seeds and mealworms in concealed sites in their home cage. Birds later re-visited these sites after either a short (3 h) or long (123 h) retention interval. Chickadees normally prefer mealworms, but at the long retention interval mealworms were degraded in taste and appearance. Chickadees showed some memory for what kind of food they had encountered and where, but no memory for when food had previously been found. Experiment 2 followed a similar procedure, except that chickadees searched for hidden sunflower seeds and mealworms in trees in an indoor aviary. These more natural conditions increased both the spatial scale of the task and the effort required to find food. In this experiment, birds showed evidence for all three components of what-where-when memory. Unlike some previous studies of episodic-like memory, birds' behaviour cannot be accounted for by differential memory strength for more recent events. The results show that memory for what, where, and when occurs in food-storing birds outside the corvid family, does not require food caching or retrieval, and that remembering "when" can depend on the nature of the task.}, }
@article {pmid19466286, year = {2009}, author = {Atallah, AN}, title = {The compass, crow's nest and ship of medicine in the sea of uncertainties.}, journal = {Sao Paulo medical journal = Revista paulista de medicina}, volume = {127}, number = {1}, pages = {3-4}, pmid = {19466286}, issn = {1806-9460}, mesh = {*Clinical Trials as Topic ; *Decision Making ; Humans ; *Physician's Role ; *Review Literature as Topic ; }, }
@article {pmid19465051, year = {2009}, author = {Newman, J and Gallo, MV and Schell, LM and DeCaprio, AP and Denham, M and Deane, GD and , }, title = {Analysis of PCB congeners related to cognitive functioning in adolescents.}, journal = {Neurotoxicology}, volume = {30}, number = {4}, pages = {686-696}, pmid = {19465051}, issn = {1872-9711}, support = {R01 ES010904/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; ESO4913-10//PHS HHS/United States ; 5RDMD001120//PHS HHS/United States ; ES10904-06/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 ES010904-05/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 ES010904-02/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adolescent Development/*drug effects ; Child ; Cognition/*drug effects ; *Environmental Exposure ; Environmental Pollutants/*adverse effects ; Female ; Humans ; Indians, North American ; Male ; Mother-Child Relations ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Polychlorinated Biphenyls/*adverse effects ; Regression Analysis ; Retrospective Studies ; }, abstract = {To investigate the characteristics of PCBs that are linked to cognitive functioning, those congeners that were concurrently found in 271 Mohawk adolescents were grouped according to structure (dioxin-like or non-dioxin-like) and persistence (persistent or low-persistent). After the effects of the congener groups were orthogonalized, regression analyses (controlling for a number of variables found to be related to the cognitive outcomes) examined the relationship of each congener group to scores on three cognitive tests (the non-verbal Ravens Progressive Matrices, the Test of Memory and Learning, and the Woodcock Johnson-Revised). Five subtests from these cognitive tests were found to be associated with one or more PCB congener groups, most often at a moderate level. Two measures of long-term memory (Delayed Recall and Long Term Retrieval) were associated with all four congener groups. Nevertheless, examination of the role of individual congeners in the significantly related congener groups revealed that almost all congeners associated with cognitive outcomes were non-dioxin-like and ortho-substituted. A notable exception was the Ravens test where scores were associated only with dioxin-like congeners. This finding adds to the limited evidence of neurotoxic effects of dioxin-like congeners. Auditory Processing was related only to the persistent congener group. The association of the non-persistent congener group with three cognitive test scores (Delayed Recall, Long Term Retrieval and Comprehension-Knowledge) suggests that the Mohawk adolescents have experienced continuing or recent environmental exposure to PCBs that is sufficient to result in detectable cognitive decrements. Comparison of our findings with those of other human studies was limited by the relative lack of specificity of both PCB measures and cognitive outcome measures in much previous work.}, }
@article {pmid19460119, year = {2009}, author = {Chen, YJ and Ho, MY and Chen, KJ and Hsu, CF and Ryu, SJ}, title = {Estimation of premorbid general fluid intelligence using traditional Chinese reading performance in Taiwanese samples.}, journal = {Psychiatry and clinical neurosciences}, volume = {63}, number = {4}, pages = {500-507}, doi = {10.1111/j.1440-1819.2009.01970.x}, pmid = {19460119}, issn = {1440-1819}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Distribution ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Asian People/psychology/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Language ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Psychometrics ; *Reading ; Regression Analysis ; Reproducibility of Results ; Taiwan ; Wechsler Scales/statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {AIMS: The aims of the present study were to (i) investigate if traditional Chinese word reading ability can be used for estimating premorbid general intelligence; and (ii) to provide multiple regression equations for estimating premorbid performance on Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM), using age, years of education and Chinese Graded Word Reading Test (CGWRT) scores as predictor variables.<br><br>METHODS: Four hundred and twenty-six healthy volunteers (201 male, 225 female), aged 16-93 years (mean +/- SD, 41.92 +/- 18.19 years) undertook the tests individually under supervised conditions. Seventy percent of subjects were randomly allocated to the derivation group (n = 296), and the rest to the validation group (n = 130).<br><br>RESULTS: RSPM score was positively correlated with CGWRT score and years of education. RSPM and CGWRT scores and years of education were also inversely correlated with age, but the declining trend for RSPM performance against age was steeper than that for CGWRT performance. Separate multiple regression equations were derived for estimating RSPM scores using different combinations of age, years of education, and CGWRT score for both groups. The multiple regression coefficient of each equation ranged from 0.71 to 0.80 with the standard error of estimate between 7 and 8 RSPM points. When fitting the data of one group to the equations derived from its counterpart group, the cross-validation multiple regression coefficients ranged from 0.71 to 0.79. There were no significant differences in the 'predicted-obtained' RSPM discrepancies between any equations.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The regression equations derived in the present study may provide a basis for estimating premorbid RSPM performance.}, }
@article {pmid19459586, year = {2009}, author = {Wolff, D and Abo-Madyan, Y and Dobler, B and Lohr, F and Mai, S and Polednik, M and Wenz, F}, title = {[Serial tomotherapy vs. MLC-IMRT (multileaf collimator intensity modulated radiotherapy) for simultaneous boost treatment large intracerebral lesions].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur medizinische Physik}, volume = {19}, number = {1}, pages = {58-66}, doi = {10.1016/j.zemedi.2008.07.003}, pmid = {19459586}, issn = {0939-3889}, mesh = {Brain Neoplasms/*radiotherapy/secondary/surgery ; Humans ; Neoplasm Metastasis/radiotherapy ; Patient Care Planning ; Radiosurgery/methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/methods ; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated/*methods ; Retrospective Studies ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Recent data suggest that a radiosurgery boost treatment for up to three brain metastases in addition to whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) is beneficial. Sequential treatment of multiple metastatic lesions is time-consuming and optimal normal tissue sparing is not trivial for larger metastases when separate plans are created and are only superimposed afterwards. Sequential Tomotherapy (see image I) with noncoplanar arcs and Multi-field IMRT may streamline the process and enable easy simultaneous treatment. We compared plans for 2-3 intracerebral targets calculated with Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) based on treatment with MLC or sequential Tomotherapy using the Peacock-System (see image II). Treatment time was not to exceed 90 min on a linac with standard dose rate. MIMiC plans without treatment-time restrictions were created as a benchmark.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Calculations are based on a Siemens KD2 linac with a dose rate of 200 MU/min. Step-and-Shoot IMRT is performed with a standard MLC (2 x 29 leaves, 1 cm), serial Tomotherapy with the Multivane-Collimator MIMiC (NOMOS Inc. USA) (see image II). Treatment plans are created with Corvus 5.0. To create plans with good conformity we chose a noncoplanar beam- and arc geometry for each approach (IMRT 4-, MIMiC 5-couch angles). The benchmark MIMiC plans with maximally steep dose gradients had 9 couch angles. For plan comparison reasons, 10 Gy were prescribed to 90% of the PTV. Steepness of dose gradients, homogeneity and conformity were assessed by the following parameters: Volume encompassed by certain isodoses outside the target as well as homogeneity and conformity as indicated by Homogeneity- and Conformity-Index.<br><br>RESULTS: Plans without treatment-time restrictions had slightest dose to organ at risk (OAR), normal tissue and least Conformity-index. MIMiC- and MLC-IMRT based plans can be treated within the intended period of 90 min, all plans met the required dose (see Table 2). MLC based plans resulted in higher dose to organs at risk (OAR) (see table 1) and dose to tissue outside the targets (see table 3), as indicated by a higher CI (see image III). The HI was similar for all calculated plans (see image IV).<br><br>DISCUSSION: When treatment plans resulting in a similar treatment time were compared, serial Tomotherapy showed minor advantages over MLC based IMRT with regard to conformity, OAR sparing, and steepness of dose gradients. Both methods are inferior to serial Tomotherapy with ideal plan quality disregarding treatment efficiency. Treating multiple metastases in less than 1 h would therefore be possible on a LINAC with high dose rate and bidirectional rotation with minor compromises on gradient steepness.}, }
@article {pmid19459411, year = {2009}, author = {L'vov, DN and Shchelkanov, MIu and Dzharkenov, AF and Galkina, IV and Kolobukhina, LV and Aristova, VA and Al'khovskiĭ, SV and Prilipov, AG and Samokhvalov, EI and Deriabin, PG and Voronina, AG and Vasil'ev, AV and Bezzhonova, OV and L'vov, DK}, title = {[Population interactions of West Nile virus (Flaviviridae, Flavivirus) with arthropode vectors, vertebrates, humans in the middle and low belts of Volga delta in 2001-2006].}, journal = {Voprosy virusologii}, volume = {54}, number = {2}, pages = {36-43}, pmid = {19459411}, issn = {0507-4088}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Domestic/blood/virology ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Arthropod Vectors/classification/*virology ; Birds/virology ; Cell Line ; Culicidae/classification/*virology ; Disease Reservoirs/*virology ; Genome, Viral ; Humans ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Viral/analysis/genetics ; Rivers/virology ; Russia/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/blood/*epidemiology/virology ; West Nile virus/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The population interactions of West Nile virus in the middle and lower regions of the Volga delta in 2001-2006 were studied. The authors established major species of the mosquitoes Anopheles messeae, An. hyrcanus, Culex piplens, Cx modestus, Coquilletidia richiardii in anthropogenic biocenoses and An. hyrcanus, Coq. richiardii in the natural ones; vertebrates - crows (Corvidae) and domestic animals in the anthropogenic biocenoses and cormorants in the natural ones. The ticks Hyalomma marginatum were found to play an active role in the circulation of the virus and in the stability of infection foci. The epicenter of an endemic area is situated in the anthropogenic biocenoses of the middle belt where high infection rates were found in humans (20-40% immune stratum), mosquitoes, and birds. A complete sequence of 14 strains was detected in 44% from 1 to 5 nucleotide replacements to a genome, most frequently at E154 positions Asn --> Ser and Ser --> Pro, which prevents glycosylation and reduces neuroinvasion. Analysis of 100 RT-PCR-positive samples revealed the absolute predominance of genotypes 1 with single findings of genotype 2 and 4.}, }
@article {pmid20522321, year = {2009}, author = {Sherry, DF and Hoshooley, JS}, title = {The seasonal hippocampus of food-storing birds.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {80}, number = {3}, pages = {334-338}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2008.12.012}, pmid = {20522321}, issn = {1872-8308}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Birds/*physiology ; Cognition/physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Food ; Hippocampus/*physiology ; Memory/*physiology ; Neurons/physiology ; Seasons ; Space Perception/*physiology ; Spatial Behavior/physiology ; }, abstract = {Food storing is seasonal in birds like chickadees, nuthatches and jays, occurring at high levels in fall and winter and low levels in spring and summer. Memory for cache sites is hippocampus dependent in chickadees and both the recruitment of new neurons into the hippocampus and the total size of the hippocampus change seasonally. Unlike seasonal change in the vocal control nuclei of songbirds, however, change in the hippocampus appears not to be controlled by photoperiod. The annual timing of hippocampal neuronal recruitment and change in hippocampal size is quite variable, reaching maximum levels at different times of year in different studies. The amount of food-storing activity by chickadees is known to be influenced by flock dominance structure, energy balance, food availability, and other seasonally varying factors. The variable timing of seasonal change in the hippocampus may indicate that the hippocampus of food-storing birds changes annually in response to change in the intensity of food storing behaviour itself.}, }
@article {pmid21532902, year = {2009}, author = {Nieves, E and Jones, J}, title = {Epi Info™: Now an Open-source application that continues a long and productive "life" through CDC support and funding.}, journal = {The Pan African medical journal}, volume = {2}, number = {}, pages = {6}, pmid = {21532902}, issn = {1937-8688}, abstract = {ABOUT THE AUTHORS: Enrique Nieves Jr is the Acting Director of the Division of Integrated Surveillance Systems and Services (DISSS), National Center for Public for Health Informatics (NCPHI), Coordinating Center for Health information and Service (CCHIS), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, USA. Jay Jones is a BearingPoint Consultant to the CDC/NCPHI Division of Alliance Management and Consultation (DAMC), National Center for Public for Health Informatics (NCPHI), Coordinating Center for Health information and Service (CCHIS), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, USA.}, }
@article {pmid20589226, year = {2009}, author = {Wheeler, SS and Barker, CM and Fang, Y and Armijos, MV and Carroll, BD and Husted, S and Johnson, WO and Reisen, WK}, title = {DIFFERENTIAL IMPACT OF WEST NILE VIRUS ON CALIFORNIA BIRDS.}, journal = {The Condor}, volume = {111}, number = {1}, pages = {1-20}, pmid = {20589226}, issn = {0010-5422}, support = {R01 AI055607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI055607-06A2/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {The strain of West Nile virus (WNV) currently epidemic in North America contains a genetic mutation elevating its virulence in birds, especially species in the family Corvidae. Although dead American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) have been the hallmark of the epidemic, the overall impact of WNV on North America's avifauna remains poorly understood and has not been addressed thoroughly in California. Here, we evaluate variation by species in the effect of WNV on California birds from 2004 to 2007 by using (1) seroprevalence in free-ranging birds, (2) percentage of carcasses of each species reported by the public that tested positive for WNV, (3) mortality determined from experimental infections, and (4) population declines detected by trend analysis of Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) data. Using Bayesian linear models, we extrapolate trends in BBS data from 1980-2003 (pre-WNV) to 2004-2007 (post-WNV). We attribute significant declines from expected abundance trends in areas supporting epiornitics to WNV transmission. We combine risk assessed from each of the four data sets to generate an overall score describing WNV risk by species. The susceptibility of California avifauna to WNV varies widely, with overall risk scores ranging from low for the refractory Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) through high for the susceptible American Crow. Other species at high risk include, in descending order, the House Finch (Carpodacus mexicanus), Black-crowned Night-Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax), Western Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma californica), and Yellow-billed Magpie (Pica nuttalli). Our analyses emphasize the importance of multiple data sources in assessing the effect of an invading pathogen.}, }
@article {pmid21586079, year = {2008}, author = {Jaari, S and Välimäki, K and Merilä, J}, title = {Isolation and characterization of 100 polymorphic microsatellite loci for the Siberian jay (Perisoreus infaustus).}, journal = {Molecular ecology resources}, volume = {8}, number = {6}, pages = {1469-1474}, doi = {10.1111/j.1755-0998.2008.02223.x}, pmid = {21586079}, issn = {1755-098X}, abstract = {We describe primers and polymerase chain reaction conditions to amplify 100 microsatellite loci from the Siberian jay (Perisoreus infaustus). The primers were tested on two geographically separated Finnish populations. The developed primer pairs yielded an average of 4.72 alleles per locus (range one to 17) and an average observed heterozygosity of 0.55 (range 0.04 to 1).}, }
@article {pmid21396068, year = {2008}, author = {Lu, C and Zhu, Q and Deng, Q}, title = {Effect of frugivorous birds on the establishment of a naturally regenerating population of Chinese yew in ex situ conservation.}, journal = {Integrative zoology}, volume = {3}, number = {3}, pages = {186-193}, doi = {10.1111/j.1749-4877.2008.00089.x}, pmid = {21396068}, issn = {1749-4869}, abstract = {The Chinese yew (Taxus chinensis) is catalogued as an endangered species in China because of the small size and senescent status of most populations. Its lack of natural regeneration is the most important reason for its endangered status. We investigated the regeneration of an ex-situ conservation population, which was introduced into the Nanjing Botanical Garden Memorial Sun Yat-Sen in the 1950s, and evaluated the role of frugivorous birds on the establishment of this regenerating population. Two hundred and thirteen individual yew seedlings and saplings were found on the hillside in 2006, and the nearest seedling was found more than 10 m away from mother trees. The spatial pattern of all seedlings and saplings occurred as a clumped distribution, which is typical for vertebrate-dispersed plants. Six bird species were seen ingesting whole "fruits" at yew trees in the present study and 745 visits by avian frugivores were recorded. Red-billed blue magpie (Urocissa erythrorhyncha), Chinese bulbul (Pycnonotus sinensis) and azure-winged magpie (Cyanopica cyana) were the most frequent visitors over the two years of the study. Comparing the flights of departure and perching habitats of the three main bird species, we inferred that U. erythrorhyncha would be the most important disperser. This regeneration population has had good development over the past 20 or more years; frugivorous birds have removed seeds to the hillside every year until now, and seed germination and seedling growth continue to develop well under natural conditions. We suggest that the conservation system of the Chinese yew should be composed of yews, avian dispersers and habitats for seed germination and seedling growth.}, }
@article {pmid21585917, year = {2008}, author = {Leder, EH and Karaiskou, N and Primmer, CR}, title = {Seventy new microsatellites for the pied flycatcher, Ficedula hypoleuca and amplification in other passerine birds.}, journal = {Molecular ecology resources}, volume = {8}, number = {4}, pages = {874-880}, doi = {10.1111/j.1755-0998.2008.02096.x}, pmid = {21585917}, issn = {1755-098X}, abstract = {The pied flycatcher (Ficedula hypoleuca) is a small migratory passerine bird commonly distributed across Europe which has been the focus of considerable ecological and evolutionary research. Here, we present details of 70 microsatellite markers for the species adding to the six which are currently available. Sixty-six markers were also polymorphic in the closely related collared flycatcher (Ficedula albicollis), while 54 were polymorphic in another related passerine, the bluethroat (Luscinia svecica), and 12 were polymorphic in the more distantly related Siberian jay (Perisoreus infaustus).}, }
@article {pmid21585909, year = {2008}, author = {Haas, F and Hansson, B}, title = {Identification of 20 polymorphic microsatellite loci in European crow (Corvus corone) from existing passerine loci.}, journal = {Molecular ecology resources}, volume = {8}, number = {4}, pages = {846-850}, doi = {10.1111/j.1755-0998.2008.02087.x}, pmid = {21585909}, issn = {1755-098X}, abstract = {The European crow (Corvus corone) occurs in two subspecies (or species) with distinct plumage coloration: the black carrion crow (C. c. corone) and the grey and black hooded crow (C. c. cornix). We tested 42 passerine microsatellite loci for amplification in the European crow and identified 20 loci that were both polymorphic and easy to score. In 50 individuals sampled in the Danish part of the species' pan-European hybrid zone, the number of alleles ranged between two and 21. One locus deviated from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and had a high estimated null allele frequency. These 20 loci were highly successful in amplifying polymorphic products also in other crow populations and in another Corvidae species, the rook (Corvus frugilegus).}, }
@article {pmid21585754, year = {2008}, author = {Ernest, HB and Well, JA and Kurushima, JD}, title = {Development of 10 microsatellite loci for Yellow-billed Magpies (Pica nuttalli) and corvid ecology and West Nile virus studies.}, journal = {Molecular ecology resources}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {196-198}, doi = {10.1111/j.1471-8286.2007.01921.x}, pmid = {21585754}, issn = {1755-098X}, abstract = {We developed 10 polymorphic microsatellite loci for Yellow-billed Magpies (Pica nuttalli). The primers were tested across a population of 57 Central California Yellow-billed Magpies and displayed an average of 3.9 alleles per locus. Forty-one American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) from California were polymorphic for seven of the loci with an average of 2.9 alleles per locus. One additional microsatellite-containing locus displayed diagnostic allele sizes and may be useful to distinguish between the two species. These corvid specific microsatellites will aid ecological studies of the population-level effects of diseases, such as West Nile virus.}, }
@article {pmid20300334, year = {2008}, author = {Jain, VK and Ghiya, BC and Gupta, D and Singhi, MK}, title = {Co(2) laser resurfacing for facial rhytides.}, journal = {Journal of cutaneous and aesthetic surgery}, volume = {1}, number = {1}, pages = {19-20}, pmid = {20300334}, issn = {0974-5157}, abstract = {Resurfacing of facial rhytides (periorbital crow-feet wrinkles) was performed in three cases by carbon dioxide laser (Sharplan((R)) 1030 machine). Good to excellent results were observed. However, erythema and postinflammatory pigmentation were important side effects.}, }
@article {pmid19579708, year = {2008}, author = {Cachón, V and Barahona, A and Ayala, FJ}, title = {The rhetorical construction of Eldredge and Gould's article on the theory of punctuated equilibria in 1972.}, journal = {History and philosophy of the life sciences}, volume = {30}, number = {3-4}, pages = {317-337}, pmid = {19579708}, issn = {0391-9714}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Biology/*history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Models, Genetic ; Paleontology/*history ; *Persuasive Communication ; }, abstract = {This article seeks to show how several rhetorical tools were used and, in fact, played a central role in the argumentation advanced by Niles Eldredge and Stephen Jay Gould in their 1972 seminal article on the theory of Punctuated Equilibria. It is analyzed how Eldredge and Gould proceeded through three steps that, sequentially integrated, made their argument compelling. It is shown how they made use of analogies, metaphors and other rhetorical tools. It is sustained that they began by priming the reader to distrust the current interpretation of the fossil record offered by most paleontologists and then, in a second step, they used specific visual representations in order to suggest that the competitor theory was committed to the idea of an even and slow evolution at a constant rate, an image utilized by them as straw man. Finally, it is analyzed how, in their third step, Eldredge and Gould made use of several rhetorical arguments to present their theory as new for paleontology while, at the same time, placing it well inside the frame of the modern synthesis, and how they also managed to present their theory as more promising and capable of making predictions for future researches than the competitor theory.}, }
@article {pmid19551031, year = {2007}, author = {Boriskina, SV}, title = {Spectral engineering of bends and branches in microdisk coupled-resonator optical waveguides.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {15}, number = {25}, pages = {17371-17379}, doi = {10.1364/oe.15.017371}, pmid = {19551031}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {Rigorous simulations of bent and branched sections of coupled resonator optical waveguides (CROWs) composed of side-coupled whispering gallery (WG) mode microdisks are performed. Pre- and post-fabrication tuning capability of the designed structures is explored, and a novel concept of realization of tunable CROW-based routers and switches is introduced. The proposed tuning mechanism exploits the properties of CROW optical modes coupling with avoided crossing scenario rather than the previously used Vernier effect. Applications of spectrally-engineered branched CROW structures for controllable manipulation of coupling between spatially separated nano-emitters are also discussed.}, }
@article {pmid19551030, year = {2007}, author = {Möller, BM and Woggon, U and Artemyev, MV}, title = {Band formation in coupled-resonator slow-wave structures.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {15}, number = {25}, pages = {17362-17370}, doi = {10.1364/oe.15.017362}, pmid = {19551030}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {Sequences of coupled-resonator optical waveguides (CROWs) have been examined as slow-wave structures. The formation of photonic bands in finite systems is studied in the frame of a coupled oscillator model. Several types of resonator size tuning in the system are evaluated in a systematical manner. We show that aperiodicities in sequences of coupled microspheres provide an additional degree of freedom for the design of photonic bands.}, }
@article {pmid19547539, year = {2007}, author = {Riboli, F and Bettotti, P and Pavesi, L}, title = {Band gap characterization and slow light effects in one dimensional photonic crystals based on silicon slot-waveguides.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {15}, number = {19}, pages = {11769-11775}, doi = {10.1364/oe.15.011769}, pmid = {19547539}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {We investigate the photonic properties of one dimensional photonic crystals realized on Silicon On Insulator channel slot-waveguide to engineer slow light effects. Various geometries of the photonic pattern have been characterized and their photonic band-gap structure analyzed. The optimal geometry has been further used to realize a coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW). A first optimization of these CROW devices shows a group velocity of more than c/10 at 1.55 mum. Full three dimensional calculations based on the planar wave expansion method have been used to compute the band diagram while full three dimensional calculations based on finite difference time domain methods have been used to study light propagation.}, }
@article {pmid19547387, year = {2007}, author = {Neff, CW and Andersson, LM and Qiu, M}, title = {Coupled resonator optical waveguide structures with highly dispersive media.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {15}, number = {16}, pages = {10362-10369}, doi = {10.1364/oe.15.010362}, pmid = {19547387}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {Analysis of photonic crystal coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW) structures with a highly dispersive background medium is presented. A finite-difference time-domain algorithm was employed which contains an exact representation of the permittivity of a three-level atomic system which exhibits electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT). We find that the coupling strength between nearestneighbor cavities in the CROW decreases with increasing steepness of the background dispersion, which is continuously tunable as it is directly related to the control field Rabi frequency. The weaker coupling decreases the speed of pulse propagation through the waveguide. In addition, due to the dispersive nature of the EIT background, the CROW band shape is tuned around a fixed k-point. Thus, the EIT background enables dynamic tunability of the CROW band shape and the group velocity in the structure at a fixed operating point in momentum space.}, }
@article {pmid19547369, year = {2007}, author = {Capmany, J and Muñoz, P and Domenech, JD and Muriel, MA}, title = {Apodized coupled resonator waveguides.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {15}, number = {16}, pages = {10196-10206}, doi = {10.1364/oe.15.010196}, pmid = {19547369}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {In this paper we propose analyse the apodisation or windowing of the coupling coefficients in the unit cells of coupled resonator waveguide devices (CROWs) as a means to reduce the level of secondary sidelobes in the bandpass characteristic of their transfer functions. This technique is regularly employed in the design of digital filters and has been applied as well in the design of other photonic devices such as corrugated waveguide filters and fiber Bragg gratings. The apodisation of both Type-I and Type-II structures is discussed for several windowing functions.}, }
@article {pmid19498649, year = {2005}, author = {Sumetsky, M}, title = {Vertically-stacked multi-ring resonator.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {13}, number = {17}, pages = {6354-6375}, doi = {10.1364/opex.13.006354}, pmid = {19498649}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {A vertically-stacked multi-ring resonator (VMR), which is a sequence of ring resonators stacked on top of each other, is investigated. The light in the VMR propagates horizontally in the plane of rings and at the same time propagates vertically between the adjacent rings due to evanescent coupling. If fabricated, the VMR may be advantageous compared to the conventional planar arrangement of coupled rings due to its dramatic compactness and more flexible transmission characteristics. In this paper, the uniform VMR, which consists of N rings coupled to the input and output waveguides, is studied. The uniform VMR is a 3D version of a coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW). Closed analytical expressions for the transmission amplitudes and eigenvalues are obtained by solving coupled wave equations. In the approximation considered, it is shown that, in contrast to the conventional planar ring CROW, a VMR can possess eigenmodes even when interring coupling as well as coupling between rings and waveguides is strong. For the isolated VMR, the eigenvalues of the propagation constant are shown to change linearly with the interring coupling coefficient. The resonance transmission near the VMR eigenvalues is investigated. The dispersion relation of a VMR with an infinite number of rings is found. For weak coupling, the VMR dispersion relation is similar to that of a planar ring CROW (leading, however, to a much smaller group velocity), while for stronger coupling, a VMR does not possess bandgaps.}, }
@article {pmid19495348, year = {2005}, author = {Sumetsky, M}, title = {Uniform coil optical resonator and waveguide: transmission spectrum, eigenmodes, and dispersion relation.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {13}, number = {11}, pages = {4331-4340}, doi = {10.1364/opex.13.004331}, pmid = {19495348}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {The coil optical resonator (COR) is an optical microfiber coil tightly wound on an optical rod. The resonant behavior of this all-pass device is determined by evanescent coupling between the turns of the microfiber. This paper investigates the uniform COR with N turns. Its transmission characteristics are surprisingly different from those of the known types of resonators and of photonic crystal structures. It is found that for certain discrete sequences of propagation constant and interturn coupling, the light is completely trapped by the resonator. For N ? degrees degrees , the COR spectrum experiences a fractal collapse to the points corresponding to the second order zero of the group velocity. For a relatively small coupling between turns, the COR waveguide behavior resembles that of a SCISSOR (side-coupled integrated spaced sequence of resonators), while for larger coupling it resembles that of a CROW (coupled resonator optical waveguide).}, }
@article {pmid19495323, year = {2005}, author = {Feng, S and Elson, J and Overfelt, P}, title = {Optical properties of multilayer metal-dielectric nanofilms with all-evanescent modes.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {13}, number = {11}, pages = {4113-4124}, doi = {10.1364/opex.13.004113}, pmid = {19495323}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {We present a systematic study of mode characteristics of multilayer metal-dielectric (M-D) nanofilm structures. This structure can be described as a coupled-plasmon-resonantwaveguide (CPRW), a special case of coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW). Similar to a photonic crystal, the M-D is periodic, but there is a major difference in that the fields are evanescent everywhere in the M-D structure as in a nanoplasmonic structure. The transmission coefficient exhibits periodic oscillation with increasing number of periods. As a result of surface-plasmon-enhanced resonant tunneling, a 100% transmission occurs periodically at certain thicknesses of the M-D structure, depending on the wavelength, lattice constants, and excitation conditions. This structure indicates that a transparent material can be composed from non-transparent materials by alternatively stacking different materials of thin layers. The general properties of the CPRW and resonant tunneling phenomena are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid19488297, year = {2004}, author = {Deng, S and Cai, W and Astratov, V}, title = {Numerical study of light propagation via whispering gallery modes in microcylinder coupled resonator optical waveguides.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {12}, number = {26}, pages = {6468-6480}, doi = {10.1364/opex.12.006468}, pmid = {19488297}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {By using a discontinuous spectral element method, we analyze evanescent wave coupling of whispering gallery modes (WGMs) in microcylinder coupled resonator optical waveguides (CROWs). We demonstrate successful light propagation by WGMs through a chain of coupled cylinder resonators, and that the speed of such propagation is strongly dependent on the inter-resonator gap sizes. Our simulations also show that light propagates slower byWGMs with bigger azimuthal numbers than by those with smaller azimuthal numbers. On the other hand, the light propagation by WGMs of the same azimuthal number appears to have the same speed in CROWs regardless of the size and the material of the resonators, indicating that the tail (the part of a WGM outside the resonator) determines inter-resonator coupling strength.}, }
@article {pmid19471515, year = {2004}, author = {Poon, J and Scheuer, J and Mookherjea, S and Paloczi, G and Huang, Y and Yariv, A}, title = {Matrix analysis of microring coupled-resonator optical waveguides.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {90-103}, doi = {10.1364/opex.12.000090}, pmid = {19471515}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {We use the coupling matrix formalism to investigate continuous wave and pulse propagation through microring coupled-resonator optical waveguides (CROWs). The dispersion relation agrees with that derived using the tight-binding model in the limit of weak inter-resonator coupling. We obtain an analytical expression for pulse propagation through a semi-infinite CROW in the case of weak coupling which fully accounts for the nonlinear dispersive characteristics. We also show that intensity of a pulse in a CROW is enhanced by a factor inversely proportional to the inter-resonator coupling. In finite CROWs, anomalous dispersions allows for a pulse to propagate with a negative group velocity such that the output pulse appears to emerge before the input as in "superluminal" propagation. The matrix formalism is a powerful approach for microring CROWs since it can be applied to structures and geometries for which analyses with the commonly used tight-binding approach are not applicable.}, }
@article {pmid19471475, year = {2003}, author = {Kim, WJ and Kuang, W and O'Brien, J}, title = {Dispersion characteristics of photonic crystal coupled resonator optical waveguides.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {11}, number = {25}, pages = {3431-3437}, doi = {10.1364/oe.11.003431}, pmid = {19471475}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {We investigated group velocities and group velocity dispersion characteristics of photonic crystal waveguides and coupled resonator optical waveguides(CROW's). In photonic circuits comprised of the linear defect waveguides, the insertion of the CROW section suppresses energy flow due to its highly dispersive characteristics. We analyze the change in the group velocity and the group velocity dispersion by varying the radius of the holes in the waveguide channel. Properly designed CROW sections provide a wide range of control in the group velocity and positive/negative group velocity dispersion. They can be used as delay lines or dispersion compensators in photonic integrated circuits comprised of linear defect photonic crystal waveguides.}, }
@article {pmid23272934, year = {2001}, author = {Lagay, F and Parsi, K}, title = {Jay Sanders, MD: Telemedicine Pioneer.}, journal = {The virtual mentor : VM}, volume = {3}, number = {3}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1001/virtualmentor.2001.3.3.prol1-0103}, pmid = {23272934}, issn = {1937-7010}, }
@article {pmid21407836, year = {2001}, author = {Andrade, C and Tharakan, JF and Chari, S}, title = {Detection of malingering through the use of raven's standard progressive matrices.}, journal = {Indian journal of psychiatry}, volume = {43}, number = {1}, pages = {36-40}, pmid = {21407836}, issn = {0019-5545}, abstract = {Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) has been suggested to assist in the detection of malingering, and a putatively validated formula method for defining genuine and fake performances is available In the present study, 47 normal individuals were asked to fake cognitive impairment on the SPM; a day later, their genuine performances were obtained. As expected, the genuine performances were significantly superior to the faked performances: however, the formula method failed to distinguish between the two. The present study used logistic regression analysis to model genuine and faked performances; the method resulted in a 74.5% accurate classification. It is concluded that, while the SPM may be useful in certain cases, it cannot reliably detect malingering.}, }
@article {pmid23119730, year = {2000}, author = {Raveendran, M and Sateesh, B}, title = {A long standing foreign body in the ethmoid-a case report.}, journal = {Indian journal of otolaryngology and head and neck surgery : official publication of the Association of Otolaryngologists of India}, volume = {52}, number = {4}, pages = {377-378}, pmid = {23119730}, issn = {2231-3796}, abstract = {Headache is the most common complaint in present Jay ENT practice, it happens to be the most frequent and misunderstood wmptom. Foreign bodies in the paranasal sinuses invariably pose challenges to the surgeon due to the complex anatomy. Here, we present a case report of an unusual long standing foreign body of 40 years, in the ethmoid, presenting headache as a feature, after 37 years.}, }
@article {pmid24276657, year = {2000}, author = {Al-Qudah, AA and Tamimi, AF and Ghanem, S}, title = {Electrocorticography in the management of surgically treated epileptic patients.}, journal = {Neurosciences (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)}, volume = {5}, number = {1}, pages = {22-25}, pmid = {24276657}, issn = {1319-6138}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To report our experience on 8 patients with mean age of onset of seizures of 8 years, who had intra-operative electrocorticography monitoring during the surgical treatment of their medically intractable partial epilepsy.<br><br>METHODS: Post-resection electrocorticography grades were according to Jay et al and seizure outcome was a according to Kobayashi et al grades.<br><br>RESULTS: Five patients had temporal lobe surgery and 3 patients had extra temporal surgery. Four patients had post-resection electrocorticography grade A (no residual epileptic activity), two of them had seizure outcome grade 1 (free of seizures) and the other 2 had grade 11 (free of seizures on medication). The other 4 patients had post-resection electrocorticography grade B (minimal residual epileptic activity) and all had seizure outcome grade 11 except one patient who had grade 111 (more than 50% reduction in seizure frequency).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Despite the small size of our study, our results suggest that intra-operative electrocorticography may be an important tool in the surgical management of medically intractable epilepsy.}, }
@article {pmid19909336, year = {1997}, author = {Annegers, JF}, title = {United States perspective on definitions and classifications.}, journal = {Epilepsia}, volume = {38}, number = {11 Suppl}, pages = {S9-12}, doi = {10.1111/j.1528-1157.1997.tb06137.x}, pmid = {19909336}, issn = {1528-1167}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Distribution ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cause of Death/trends ; Death, Sudden/*epidemiology ; Epilepsy/epidemiology/*mortality ; Female ; Humans ; Incidence ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Mortality/trends ; Risk ; Risk Factors ; Terminology as Topic ; United Kingdom/epidemiology ; United States/epidemiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Interest in sudden unexpected and unexplained death in individuals with epilepsy (SUDEP) was rekindled in the United States by Jay and Leestma during the early 1980s and more recently by antiepileptic drug (AED) trials and medicolegal issues. The incidence of SUDEP has been and is being evaluated in North America and the United Kingdom. Specific criteria for the classification of definite, probable, possible, and unlikely SUDEP implemented in United States epidemiologic studies are presented. Evidence for the increased relative risk for sudden death in epilepsy compared with the general population is also discussed.}, }
@article {pmid21060554, year = {1995}, author = {Sica, RJ and Sargoytchev, S and Argall, PS and Borra, EF and Girard, L and Sparrow, CT and Flatt, S}, title = {Lidar measurements taken with a large-aperture liquid mirror. 1. Rayleigh-scatter system.}, journal = {Applied optics}, volume = {34}, number = {30}, pages = {6925-6936}, doi = {10.1364/AO.34.006925}, pmid = {21060554}, issn = {1559-128X}, abstract = {A lidar system has been built to measure atmospheric-density fluctuations and the temperature in the upper stratosphere, the mesosphere, and the lower thermosphere, measurements that are important for an understanding of climate and weather phenomena. This lidar system, the Purple Crow Lidar, uses two transmitter beams to obtain atmospheric returns resulting from Rayleigh scattering and sodium-resonance fluorescence. The Rayleigh-scatter transmitter is a Nd:YAG laser that generates 600 mJ/pulse at the second-harmonic frequency, with a 20-Hz pulse-repetition rate. The sodium-resonance-fluorescence transmitter is a Nd:YAG-pumped ring dye laser with a sufficiently narrow bandwidth to measure the line shape of the sodium D(2) line. The receiver is a 2.65-m-diameter liquid-mercury mirror. A container holding the mercury is spun at 10 rpm to produce a parabolic surface of high quality and reflectivity. Test results are presented which demonstrate that the mirror behaves like a conventional glass mirror of the same size. With this mirror, the lidar system's performance is within 10% of theoretical expectations. Furthermore, the liquid mirror has proved itself reliable over a wide range of environmental conditions. The use of such a large mirror presented several engineering challenges involving the passage of light through the system and detector linearity, both of which are critical for accurate retrieval of atmospheric temperatures. These issues and their associated uncertainties are documented in detail. It is shown that the Rayleigh-scatter lidar system can reliably and routinely measure atmospheric-density fluctuations and temperatures at high temporal and spatial resolutions.}, }
@article {pmid24203272, year = {1994}, author = {Foster, GD and Zhang, J and Moon, TW}, title = {Are cell redox or lactate dehydrogenase kinetics responsible for the absence of gluconeogenesis from lactate in sea raven, hepatocytes?.}, journal = {Fish physiology and biochemistry}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {59-67}, pmid = {24203272}, issn = {0920-1742}, abstract = {Previous studies have reported very low rates of gluconeogenesis from lactate in sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus) hepatocytes compared to other teleosts studied. This study examines whether hepatic cell redox or lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) characteristics may explain this observation. Sea raven hepatic optimal LDH activities (pyruvate reductase direction) were more than 40 times less compared with rainbow trout liver values (40 vs 1914 μmol·min(-1)·g(-1) protein). The Km(lactate) was 9.24 and 0.86 mM for sea raven and trout hepatic LDH, but the Km(pyruvate) was similar between the two species (0.11 and 0.21 mM, respectively). These results suggested that sea raven liver LDH did not favour lactate use and was more indicative of the mammalian M-isozyme. Gel electrophoresis showed a predominant intermediate isozyme, with a small amount of the M-type LDH. Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) was localized to the mitochondrial compartment, while there was no apparent mitochondrial glutamate-oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT) activity. No in vitro lactate flux to glucose was found in untreated, 10 mM ethanol-treated, or 3 mM NH4Cl-treated sea raven hepatocytes, although CO2 production from lactate was decreased by ethanol and increased by NH4Cl. These results provide evidence that cell redox does not limit gluconeogenesis from lactate, while low activities and the kinetic characteristics of LDH may partially explain the low lactate gluconeogenesis reported in sea raven hepatocytes.}, }
@article {pmid24202874, year = {1993}, author = {Vijayan, MM and Foster, GD and Moon, TW}, title = {Effects of cortisol on hepatic carbohydrate metabolism and responsiveness to hormones in the sea raven, Hemitripterus americanus.}, journal = {Fish physiology and biochemistry}, volume = {12}, number = {4}, pages = {327-335}, pmid = {24202874}, issn = {0920-1742}, abstract = {The sea raven, Hemitripterus americanus, is a sit-and-wait, low metabolic rate, marine teleost. The objective of this study was to determine i) whether cortisol implantation (50 mg. kg(-1)) for 7 days altered hepatocyte metabolism, and hepatocyte responsiveness to epinephrine, glucagon and insulin, and ii) whether 8 weeks of food-deprivation modified the above response. Cortisol implantation significantly increased hepatocyte total glucose production and oxidation from alanine compared to the sham group. There was no cortisol effect on glycogen breakdown, suggesting that the activation of other pathways, including gluconeogenesis, are required to account for the increased glucose production. Epinephrine-mediated (10(-)5M) glycogen breakdown and insulin-mediated (10(-8)M) total glucose production were enhanced in hepatocytes of cortisol implanted sea ravens, but there were no change in any glucagon (10(-7)M) effects. The enhanced glycogen breakdown in the absence of similar increases in total glucose production with epinephrine indicates mobilization of carbohydrate reserves for endogenous use by the liver.Food-deprivation for 8 weeks significantly decreased condition factor, plasma cortisol concentration and liver glycogen content in the sea raven, but had no effect on plasma glucose concentration. Hepatocyte total glucose production and flux rates from alanine increased significantly with food-deprivation. Moreover, food-deprivation increased responsiveness of total hepatocyte glucose production to the actions of glucagon and insulin, but not to epinephrine; none of these effects were modified by cortisol implantation.Our results indicate that cortisol in the sea raven exerts both a direct and an indirect or permissive effect on hepatocyte metabolism by modifying hepatocyte responsiveness to epinephrine and insulin stimulation. Cortisol implantation did not modify the effects of glucagon or food-deprivation in this species.}, }
@article {pmid24487135, year = {1993}, author = {Natsopoulos, D and Bostantzopoulou, MS and Katsarou, Z and Grouios, G and Mentenopoulos, G}, title = {Space deficits in Parkinson's disease patients: quantitative or qualitative differences from normal controls?.}, journal = {Behavioural neurology}, volume = {6}, number = {4}, pages = {193-206}, doi = {10.3233/BEN-1993-6404}, pmid = {24487135}, issn = {0953-4180}, abstract = {Twenty-seven patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD) and the same number of normal controls (NCs) were studied on a test battery including five conceptual categories of spatial ability. The two groups of subjects were matched for age, sex, years of education, socioeconomic status and non-verbal (Raven Standard Progressive Matrices) intelligence. A multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) showed that the PD patients performed less efficiently on almost all the tasks. A logistic regression analysis (LRA) classified 81.48% of the subjects into the PD group and 92.59% into NC group, indicating that left-right and back-front Euclidean orientation, three dimensional mental rotation and visuospatial immediate recognition memory of mirror image patterns discriminate well between the two groups. Application of a structural model (confirmatory factor analysis) demonstrated that both PD patients and the NC group stemmed from a homogeneous population, suggesting that the differences found between the two groups are of a quantitative rather than of a qualitative nature.}, }
@article {pmid24222396, year = {1992}, author = {Dickemann, M}, title = {Phylogenetic fallacies and sexual oppression : A review article onPedophilia: Biosocial Dimensions, Jay R. Feierman, ed. New York: Springer Verlag, 1990.}, journal = {Human nature (Hawthorne, N.Y.)}, volume = {3}, number = {1}, pages = {71-87}, pmid = {24222396}, issn = {1045-6767}, }
@article {pmid23916110, year = {1990}, author = {J F, }, title = {Year book of podiatric medicine and surgery 1988 Richard M. Jay, Ed Year Book Medical Publishers, 1988, 328 pp, £32.50 (Distributed by Wolfe Medical, London).}, journal = {Clinical biomechanics (Bristol, Avon)}, volume = {5}, number = {1}, pages = {53}, doi = {10.1016/0268-0033(90)90034-4}, pmid = {23916110}, issn = {0268-0033}, }
@article {pmid24221601, year = {1989}, author = {Axelsson, M and Driedzic, WR and Farrell, AP and Nilsson, S}, title = {Regulation of cardiac output and gut blood flow in the sea raven,Hemitripterus americanus.}, journal = {Fish physiology and biochemistry}, volume = {6}, number = {5}, pages = {315-326}, pmid = {24221601}, issn = {0920-1742}, abstract = {Coeliac artery blood flow (Fca) before and after feeding was recorded in the sea raven. To obtain basic information about the scope of cardiovascular adjustment in the sea raven, a separate series of experiments was performed, in which ventral (Pva), and dorsal (Pda) aortic blood pressure, heart rate (HR) and cardiac output (jaz) were monitored during rest and encouraged exercise.Measurements of coeliac artery flow showed that visceral blood flow is substantial, particularly after feeding, and variations in the visceral vascular conductance affect Pda directly. Simultaneous recordings of intestinal and dorsal aortic blood pressures showed no measurable difference in the two arterial pressures, refuting the idea of a vascular control at the level of the main coeliac artery. Thus, in the sea raven, the adrenergic tonus affecting the visceral vasculature presumably acts at the arteriolar level.Sea ravens encouraged to exercise increased theirjaz by 64%; 32% through HR and 25% through stroke volume. The increase injaz during encouraged exercise was sufficient to produce an elevation of both Pva and Pda, despite an increase of systemic vascular conductance, β-adrenoceptor blockade with sotalol, however, severely impaired the increase injaz during exercise, and the change in Pda was reversed.During rest there were both an adrenergic and a cholinergic tonus affecting the HR, as revealed by the effects of injected pharmacological antagonists. Swimming activity decreased the cholinergic tonus, while the adrenergic tonus increased.}, }
@article {pmid24226977, year = {1989}, author = {Fletcher, GL and King, MJ and Kao, MH and Shears, MA}, title = {Antifreeze proteins in the urine of marine fish.}, journal = {Fish physiology and biochemistry}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {121-127}, pmid = {24226977}, issn = {0920-1742}, abstract = {Several species of marine teleosts have evolved blood plasma antifreeze polypeptides which enable them to survive in ice-laden seawater. Four distinct antifreeze protein classes differing in carbohydrate content, amino acid composition, protein sequence and secondary structure are currently known. Although all of these antifreezes are relatively small (2.6-33 kd) it was generally thought that they were excluded from the urine by a variety of glomerular mechanisms. In the present study antifreeze polypeptides were found in the bladder urine of winter flounder (Pseudopleuronectes americanus), sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus), ocean pout (Macrozoarces americanus) and Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua). Since the plasma of each of these fish contains a different antifreeze class it would appear that all four classes of antifreeze can enter the urine. The major antifreeze components in the urine of winter flounder were found to be identical to the major plasma components in terms of high performance liquid chromatography retention times and amino acid composition. It is concluded that plasma antifreeze peptides need not be chemically modified before they can enter the urine.}, }
@article {pmid24302069, year = {1987}, author = {Lageman, AG}, title = {Encounter with death: The thought of Robert Jay Lifton.}, journal = {Journal of religion and health}, volume = {26}, number = {4}, pages = {300-308}, pmid = {24302069}, issn = {0022-4197}, abstract = {Robert Jay Lifton begins his work in the psychosocial framework that he takes over from Erik Erikson. Lifton's thought is based upon a central paradigm-"death and the continuity of life." Lifton makes important contributions with his five modes of symbolic immortality and with his investigation of the psychological themes in survivors. The origins and limits of Lifton's thought are critically examined.}, }
@article {pmid24254546, year = {1986}, author = {Wiemeyer, SN and Jurek, RM and Moore, JF}, title = {Environmental contaminants in surrogates, foods, and feathers of California condors (Gymnogyps californianus).}, journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment}, volume = {6}, number = {1}, pages = {91-111}, pmid = {24254546}, issn = {0167-6369}, abstract = {California condor (Gymnogyps californianus) foods and feathers, and turkey vultures (Cathartes aura), common ravens (Corvus corax), and their eggs were collected within the condor range to determine exposure of condors to environmental contaminants. Samples were analyzed for organochlorines and trace elements. Food items contained low concentrations of organochlorines and generally low concentrations of lead. DDE was detected in all vulture carcasses and nearly all raven carcasses at generally moderate concentrations. Other organochlorines occurred infrequently in carcasses and generally at low concentrations. Turkey vulture eggshells were 16% thinner than the pre-DDT mean; there was no change in shell thickness of raven eggs. Vulture eggs contained an average of 6.9 ppm DDE and two contained excessive concentrations of endrin. DDE concentrations were low in raven eggs. Residues of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Ni, Se, Tl, and Zn in tissues of vultures and ravens appeared normal when compared with reference values for other species. Lead concentrations in bone of turkey vultures and feathers of condors appeared to be elevated above normal background concentrations in some cases. Current exposure of condors to organochlorines appears low; however, we are concerned about the excessive exposure of turkey vultures to organochlorines, possibly in Central America. Lead exposure to vultures and condors has occurred, but its significance to their populations is unknown.}, }
@article {pmid19460019, year = {1985}, author = {Corcuff, P and Chatenay, F and Brun, A}, title = {Evaluation of anti-wrinkle effects on humans.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {7}, number = {3}, pages = {117-126}, doi = {10.1111/j.1467-2494.1985.tb00403.x}, pmid = {19460019}, issn = {0142-5463}, abstract = {Synopsis Image analysis provides a practical method for studying the cutaneous relief and better understanding of the formation of wrinkles during ageing and their regression induced by an anti-wrinkle product. Quantimet 900 degrees allows a fully automated analysis of 40 replicas of skin surface per cycle of 6 h. The basic principle consists of measuring shadows, generated by incident lighting at the surface of Silflo replicas. Incident light of 38 degrees was selected for analysing crow's feet wrinkles and 26 degrees for the microrelief when crow's feet were absent (slight furrows less than 50 mu-m). The following parameters were recorded: the number of wrinkles, their mean depth, and the coefficient of developed skin surface (CDSS). An O/W emulsion containing 30% biological ingredients was applied daily on the face of 140 female subjects, aged from 20 to 57 years, during 4 weeks. Replicas were made before the first application (t(0)) and 24 h after the last one (t(0)). Data obtained with the image analysis method showed a decrease in number and depth of crow's feet from t(0), to t(4) of 16% and a sharp decrease of the CDSS (30%). No modification of the microrelief was observed. These results were confirmed by measuring forehead casts with the Anaglyphographc(R) apparatus (a profilometric method) on the same subjects: a decrease of 40% in number and 23% in depth were recorded for the forehead wrinkles, with no modification of the microrelief. Both image analysis and profilometry measured the effects provoked by this treatment. The CDSS, which might measure the reservoir of extensibility of the surface of the skin, should be the best parameter to demonstrate the efficiency of anti-wrinkle products.}, }
@article {pmid23195505, year = {1984}, author = {Indira Iyer, R and Nagar, PK and Sircar, PK}, title = {Cytokinin Changes in Embryo and Endosperm of Cassia fistula during Fruit Growth.}, journal = {Journal of plant physiology}, volume = {117}, number = {1}, pages = {87-92}, doi = {10.1016/S0176-1617(84)80019-X}, pmid = {23195505}, issn = {0176-1617}, abstract = {Cytokinin activity was determined in embryo and endosperm tissues from 30-day (stage 1), 55-Jay (stage 2), and 80-day (stage 3) old fruits of Cassia fistual. High cytokinin activity was associated with stage 1 and the least in stage 3. This indicated that the cytokinins disappeared during the course of seed development. Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography with 35% ethanol indicated the presence of cytokinins coeluting with zeatin glucoside, zeatin riboside, and zeatin. Qualitatively the cytokinins in the embryo and endosperm were identical at all the stages. The putative zeatin glucoside predominated at stage 1 but was absent in the later stages while only zeatin riboside was present at stage 3. The high cytokinin activity in the endosperm at early stages indicates that it may act as a supplier of cytokinins to the embryo during these periods. The possible significance of these findings is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid19467109, year = {1984}, author = {Corcuff, P and Chatenay, F and Leveque, JL}, title = {A fully automated system to study skin surface patterns.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {6}, number = {4}, pages = {167-176}, doi = {10.1111/j.1467-2494.1984.tb00373.x}, pmid = {19467109}, issn = {0142-5463}, abstract = {Synopsis An image analysis method to measure the human skin microrelief has been previously proposed. This new method has been recently automated, using a 'robot'electronically driven by a Quantimet 900. This 'robot'consists of a change-over specimen driven by four motors, and allows forty Silflo(R) replicas to be analysed in 6 hours, each analysis giving the main directions of the furrows, their density and their mean depth. For example, the volar forearm microrelief was studied from the detected shadows created by a 26 degrees angle lighting, in the range of 5 to 100 mum deep furrows. A 38 degrees angle lighting allows such measurements from 50 to 1000mum and is used for studying 'crow's feet'wrinkles of the face. Results clearly show that deep wrinkles appear as early as 30 years old on the human face. The consequences of actinic and mechanical stresses over the life span are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid24318600, year = {1984}, author = {Brower, LP and Seiber, JN and Nelson, CJ and Lynch, SP and Holland, MM}, title = {Plant-determined variation in the cardenolide content, thin-layer chromatography profiles, and emetic potency of monarch butterflies,Danaus plexippus L. Reared on milkweed plants in California: 2.Asclepias speciosa.}, journal = {Journal of chemical ecology}, volume = {10}, number = {4}, pages = {601-639}, pmid = {24318600}, issn = {0098-0331}, abstract = {The pattern of variation in gross cardenolide concentration of 111Asclepias speciosa plants collected in six different areas of California is a positively skewed distribution which ranges from 19 to 344 μg of cardenolide per 0.1 g dry weight with a mean of 90 μg per 0.1 g. Butterflies reared individually on these plants in their native habitats ranged from 41 to 547 μg of cardenolide per 0.1 g dry weight with a mean of 179 μg. Total cardenolide per butterfly ranged from 54 to 1279 μg with a mean of 319 μg. Differences in concentrations and total cardenolide contents in the butterflies from the six geographic areas appeared minor, and there were no differences between the males and the females, although the males did weigh significantly more than females. The uptake of cardenolide by the butterflies was found to be a logarithmic function of the plant concentration. This results in regulation: larvae which feed on low-concentration plants produce butterflies with increased cardenolide concentrations relative to those of the plants, and those which feed on high-concentration plants produce butterflies with decreased concentrations. No evidence was adduced that high concentrations of cardenolides in the plants affected the fitness of the butterflies. The mean emetic potencies of the powdered plant and butterfly material were 5.62 and 5.25 blue jay emetic dose fifty units per milligram of cardenolide and the number of ED50 units per butterfly ranged from 0.28 to 6.7 with a mean of 1.67. Monarchs reared onA. speciosa, on average, are only about one tenth as emetic as those reared onA. eriocarpa. UnlikeA. eriocarpa which is limited to California,A. speciosa ranges from California to the Great Plains and is replaced eastwards byA. syriaca L. These two latter milkweed species appear to have a similar array of chemically identical cardenolides, and therefore both must produce butterflies of relatively low emetic potency to birds, with important ecological implications. About 80% of the lower emetic potency of monarchs reared on A. speciosa compared to those reared onA. eriocarpa appears attributable to the higher polarity of the cardenolides inA. speciosa. Thin-layer Chromatographie separation of the cardenolides in two different solvent systems showed that there are 23 cardenolides in theA. speciosa plants of which 20 are stored by the butterflies. There were no differences in the cardenolide spot patterns due either to geographic origin or the sex of the butterflies. As when reared onA. eriocarpa, the butterflies did not store the plant cardenolides withR f values greater than digitoxigenin. However, metabolic transformation of the cardenolides by the larvae appeared minor in comparison to when they were reared onA. eriocarpa. AlthoughA. eriocarpa andA. speciosa contain similar numbers of cardenolides and both contain desglucosyrioside, the cardenolides ofA. speciosa overall are more polar. ThusA. speciosa has no or only small amounts of the nonpolar labriformin and labriformidin, whereas both occur in high concentrations inA. eriocarpa. A. speciosa plants and butterflies also contain uzarigen, syriogenin, and possibly other polar cardenolides withR f values lower than digitoxin. The cardenolide concentration in the leaves is not only considerably less than inA. eriocarpa, but the latex has little to immeasurable cardenolide, whereas that ofA. eriocarpa has very high concentrations of several cardenolides. Quantitative analysis ofR f values of the cardenolide spots, their intensities, and their probabilities of occurrence in the chloroform-methanol-formamide TLC system produced a cardenolide fingerprint pattern very different from that previously established for monarchs reared onA. eriocarpa. This dispels recently published skepticism about the predictibility of chemical fingerprints based upon ingested secondary plant chemicals.}, }
@article {pmid24415043, year = {1982}, author = {Brower, LP and Seiber, JN and Nelson, CJ and Lynch, SP and Tuskes, PM}, title = {Plant-determined variation in the cardenolide content, thin-layer chromatography profiles, and emetic potency of monarch butterflies,Danaus plexippus reared on the milkweed,Asclepias eriocarpa in California.}, journal = {Journal of chemical ecology}, volume = {8}, number = {3}, pages = {579-633}, pmid = {24415043}, issn = {0098-0331}, abstract = {This paper is the first in a series on cardenolide fingerprinting of the monarch butterfly. New methodologies are presented which allow both qualitative and quantitative descriptions of the constituent cardenolides which these insects derive in the wild from specificAsclepias foodplants. Analyses of thin-layer Chromatographic profiles ofAsclepias eriocarpa cardenolides in 85 individual plant-butterfly pairs collected at six widely separate localities in California indicate a relatively invariant pattern of 16-20 distinct cardenolides which we here define as theAsclepias eriocarpa cardenolide fingerprint profile. Cardenolide concentrations vary widely in the plant samples, but monarchs appear able to regulate total storage by increasing their concentrations relative to their larval host plant when reared on plants containing low concentrations, and vice versa. Forced-feeding of blue jays with powdered butterfly and plant material and with one of the constituent plant cardenolides, labriformin, established that theA. eriocarpa cardenolides are extremely emetic, and that monarchs which have fed on this plant contain an average of 16 emetic-dose fifty (ED50) units. The relatively nonpolar labriformin and labriformidin in the plant are not stored by the monarch but are metabolized in vivo to desglucosyrioside which the butterfly does store. This is chemically analogous to the way in which monarchs and grasshoppers metabolize another series of milkweed cardenolides, those found inA. curassavica. It appears that the sugar moiety through functionality at C-3' determines which cardenolides are metabolized and which are stored. The monarch also appears able to store several lowR f cardenolides fromA. eriocarpa without altering them. Differences in the sequestering process in monarchs and milkweed bugs (Oncopeltus) may be less than emphasized in the literature. The monarch is seen as a central organism involved in a coevolutionary triad simultaneously affecting and affected by both its avian predators and the secondary chemistry of the milkweeds with which it is intimately involved.}, }
@article {pmid24430746, year = {1976}, author = {Wulff, R and Briceño, M}, title = {Light and temperature interaction in the photocontrol of germination of seeds in Ludwigia octovalvis.}, journal = {Planta}, volume = {128}, number = {3}, pages = {195-199}, pmid = {24430746}, issn = {0032-0935}, abstract = {The germination response of seeds of Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) (=Jussiaea suffruticosa L.; Raven, 1963), to continuous light and to various types of intermittent irradiations is determined at 25, 30, 35 and 40° at different light intensities. At 25 and 40° intermittent irradiations are an effective substitute for continuous ones, while at 30 and 35° no promotion of germination is observed in the intermittent irradiations tested, except if the dark interval between light pulses is reduced to 1 min. Previous results obtained in the photocontrol of germination in this species are confirmed and extended to a variety of light cycles and intensities, indicating that the response to temperature is bimodal unless light is supplied continuously with high intensity, and that germination depends on light intensity more markedly in the temperature region of minimum germination (30-35°). As germination in this species is controlled by the red far-red system, hypothesis to account for the temperature dependence are based on the interaction between temperature and the reactions in which phytochrome is involved.}, }
@article {pmid20893656, year = {1952}, author = {}, title = {Editor of Modern Hospital Attacks "Jim Crow".}, journal = {Journal of the National Medical Association}, volume = {44}, number = {5}, pages = {391-392}, pmid = {20893656}, issn = {0027-9684}, }
@article {pmid20893653, year = {1952}, author = {}, title = {The Crushing Irony of De Luxe Jim Crow.}, journal = {Journal of the National Medical Association}, volume = {44}, number = {5}, pages = {386-387}, pmid = {20893653}, issn = {0027-9684}, }
@article {pmid20254985, year = {1947}, author = {GROSJEAN, A}, title = {[Contribution to the study of the coat of cattle in the so-called blue magpie race].}, journal = {Annales de medecine veterinaire}, volume = {91}, number = {2}, pages = {85-110}, pmid = {20254985}, issn = {0003-4118}, mesh = {Animals ; Cattle ; }, }
@article {pmid20273435, year = {1947}, author = {GERMAIN, J}, title = {[Essay of a perceptive test of intelligence; Raven test].}, journal = {Revista de psicologia general y aplicada}, volume = {2}, number = {3}, pages = {255-264}, pmid = {20273435}, issn = {0373-2002}, mesh = {Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; }, }
@article {pmid19869960, year = {1931}, author = {Beach, JR}, title = {A BACTERIOLOGICAL STUDY OF INFECTIOUS LARYNGOTRACHEITIS OF CHICKENS.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental medicine}, volume = {54}, number = {6}, pages = {801-808}, pmid = {19869960}, issn = {0022-1007}, abstract = {1. The causative agent of infectious laryngotracheitis of chickens was found to be present in bacteriologically sterile tracheal exudate, spleens, and livers of diseased fowls. 2. The causative agent was present regularly in the tracheal exudate, in the spleens of about 60 per cent, and in the livers of about 30 per cent of chickens with active laryngotracheitis infection. 3. Suspensions of the spleen and liver were less effective in inducing the disease than those made from the tracheal exudate. This finding, together with the absence of pathological changes in the spleens and livers would seem to indicate that they are not actively involved but that the causative agent is carried to them by way of the blood. 4. The disease could, in our experience, be produced only in chickens Domesticated ducks and several wild and free-flying species of birds, including sparrows, crows, starlings, doves, and pigeons were found to be refractory, and so too were rabbits, guinea pigs, white rats, and one pig that was tested.}, }
@article {pmid19455642, year = {2009}, author = {Goin-Kochel, RP and Porter, AE and Peters, SU and Shinawi, M and Sahoo, T and Beaudet, AL}, title = {The MTHFR 677C--&gt;T polymorphism and behaviors in children with autism: exploratory genotype-phenotype correlations.}, journal = {Autism research : official journal of the International Society for Autism Research}, volume = {2}, number = {2}, pages = {98-108}, doi = {10.1002/aur.70}, pmid = {19455642}, issn = {1939-3806}, support = {T32 NS043124/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Autistic Disorder/*genetics/*psychology ; Child ; Child Behavior/*psychology ; Genotype ; Humans ; Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (NADPH2)/*genetics ; Odds Ratio ; Phenotype ; Polymorphism, Genetic/*genetics ; }, abstract = {New evidence suggests that autism may be associated with (a) varied behavioral responses to folate therapy and (b) metabolic anomalies, including those in folate metabolism, that contribute to hypomethylation of DNA. We hypothesized that children with autism who are homozygous for the MTHFR 677 T allele (TT) and, to a lesser extent those with the CT variant, would exhibit more behavioral problems and/or more severe problematic behaviors than homozygous wild-type (CC) individuals because of difficulties in effectively converting 5,10-MTHF to 5-MTHF. Data from the Autism Genetic Resource Exchange (AGRE) collection were analyzed for all children who met strict criteria for autism per the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and who had been genotyped for the 677 C to T MTHFR polymorphism (n=147). Chi-square tests, logistic regression, and one-way ANOVAs were used to determine whether differences existed among MTHFR genotypes for specific behaviors on the ADI-R and indices for level of functioning. Exploratory results indicated four behaviors from the ADI-R that were more common and problematic (95% CI) among those with at least one copy of the T allele as compared to homozygous wild-type individuals: direct gaze, current complex body movements, a history of self-injurious behavior, and current overactivity (ORs=2.72, 2.33, 2.12, 2.47, respectively). No differences existed among genotypes for level of functioning as measured with the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-Third Edition, Ravens Colored Progressive Matrices, or the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales. Findings call for further investigation of the relationship between folate metabolism and problem behaviors among children with autism.}, }
@article {pmid19447669, year = {2009}, author = {Roberts, WA and Feeney, MC}, title = {The comparative study of mental time travel.}, journal = {Trends in cognitive sciences}, volume = {13}, number = {6}, pages = {271-277}, doi = {10.1016/j.tics.2009.03.003}, pmid = {19447669}, issn = {1364-6613}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Concept Formation/*physiology ; Humans ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; *Time Perception ; }, abstract = {People regularly travel through time mentally to remember and reconstruct past events and to anticipate and plan future events. We suggest that a bi-cone structure best describes human mental time travel (MTT) abilities. Experiments with scrub-jays, rats and non-human primates have investigated whether MTT is uniquely human by examining the abilities of these animals to remember what, where and when an event occurred and to anticipate future events. We argue that animal memory for when an event happened must be distinguished from memory for how long ago it happened to properly evaluate parallels with human capabilities. Similarly, tests of future MTT in animals must show that they are planning for a specific time in the future to demonstrate qualitative comparability with human MTT.}, }
@article {pmid19441950, year = {2009}, author = {Doarn, CR and Anvari, M and Low, T and Broderick, TJ}, title = {Evaluation of teleoperated surgical robots in an enclosed undersea environment.}, journal = {Telemedicine journal and e-health : the official journal of the American Telemedicine Association}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {325-335}, doi = {10.1089/tmj.2008.0123}, pmid = {19441950}, issn = {1556-3669}, mesh = {*Ecosystem ; Humans ; Oceans and Seas ; *Robotics ; *Surgery, Computer-Assisted ; }, abstract = {The ability to support surgical care in an extreme environment is a significant issue for both military medicine and space medicine. Telemanipulation systems, those that can be remotely operated from a distant site, have been used extensively by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for a number of years. These systems, often called telerobots, have successfully been applied to surgical interventions. A further extension is to operate these robotic systems over data communication networks where robotic slave and master are separated by a great distance. NASA utilizes the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Aquarius underwater habitat as an analog environment for research and technology evaluation missions, known as NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operations (NEEMO). Three NEEMO missions have provided an opportunity to evaluate teleoperated surgical robotics by astronauts and surgeons. Three robotic systems were deployed to the habitat for evaluation during NEEMO 7, 9, and 12. These systems were linked via a telecommunications link to various sites for remote manipulation. Researchers in the habitat conducted a variety of tests to evaluate performance and applicability in extreme environments. Over three different NEEMO missions, components of the Automated Endoscopic System for Optimal Positioning (AESOP), the M7 Surgical System, and the RAVEN were deployed and evaluated. A number of factors were evaluated, including communication latency and semiautonomous functions. The M7 was modified to permit a remote surgeon the ability to insert a needle into simulated tissue with ultrasound guidance, resulting in the world's first semi-autonomous supervisory-controlled medical task. The deployment and operation of teleoperated surgical systems and semi-autonomous, supervisory-controlled tasks were successfully conducted.}, }
@article {pmid19425467, year = {2009}, author = {Stancil, AN and Hicks, LH}, title = {Glyconutrients and perception, cognition, and memory.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {108}, number = {1}, pages = {259-270}, doi = {10.2466/PMS.108.1.259-270}, pmid = {19425467}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Cognition/*drug effects/physiology ; Dietary Carbohydrates/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; Dietary Supplements ; Discrimination, Psychological ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory/*drug effects/physiology ; Memory, Short-Term/drug effects/physiology ; Monosaccharides/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; Neuropsychological Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Perception/*drug effects/physiology ; Visual Perception/drug effects/physiology ; }, abstract = {Neuropsychological tests were administered to 62 college students to assess the influence of glyconutrients on perception, cognition and memory in two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, counterbalanced studies. Participants were given both a glyconutritional supplement and a control substance prior to testing. In Exp. 1. a Same-Different visual discrimination task, Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices, and the Stroop test were administered. In Exp. 2, simple and complex working-memory capacity were measured. Participants receiving the supplement performed significantly more accurately on the visual discrimination task and the first session of the simple working-memory test.}, }
@article {pmid19425425, year = {2009}, author = {Dickson, BG and Noon, BR and Flather, CH and Jentsch, S and Block, WM}, title = {Quantifying the multi-scale response of avifauna to prescribed fire experiments in the southwest United States.}, journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {608-621}, doi = {10.1890/08-0905.1}, pmid = {19425425}, issn = {1051-0761}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Birds/*physiology ; *Ecosystem ; *Fires ; Pinus ponderosa/*physiology ; Population Density ; Population Dynamics ; Southwestern United States ; Species Specificity ; Trees/physiology ; }, abstract = {Landscape-scale disturbance events, including ecological restoration and fuel reduction activities, can modify habitat and affect relationships between species and their environment. To reduce the risk of uncharacteristic stand-replacing fires in the southwestern United States, land managers are implementing restoration and fuels treatments (e.g., mechanical thinning, prescribed fire) in progressively larger stands of dry, lower elevation ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) forest. We used a Before-After/Control-Impact experimental design to quantify the multi-scale response of avifauna to large (approximately 250-400 ha) prescribed fire treatments on four sites in Arizona and New Mexico dominated by ponderosa pine. Using distance sampling and an information-theoretic approach, we estimated changes in density for 14 bird species detected before (May-June 2002-2003) and after (May-June 2004-2005) prescribed fire treatments. We observed few site-level differences in pre- and posttreatment density, and no species responded strongly to treatment on all four sites. Point-level spatial models of individual species response to treatment, habitat variables, and fire severity revealed ecological relationships that were more easily interpreted. At this scale, pretreatment forest structure and patch characteristics were important predictors of posttreatment differences in bird species density. Five species (Pygmy Nuthatch [Sitta pygmaea], Western Bluebird [Sialia mexicana], Steller's Jay [Cyanocitta stelleri], American Robin [Turdus migratorius], and Hairy Woodpecker [Picoides villosus]) exhibited a strong treatment response, and two of these species (American Robin and Hairy Woodpecker) could be associated with meaningful fire severity response functions. The avifaunal response patterns that we observed were not always consistent with those reported by more common studies of wildland fire events. Our results suggest that, in the short-term, the distribution and abundance of common members of the breeding bird community in Southwestern ponderosa pine forests appear to be tolerant of low- to moderate-intensity prescribed fire treatments at multiple spatial scales and across multiple geographic locations.}, }
@article {pmid19424959, year = {2009}, author = {Kafadar, K and Prorok, PC}, title = {Effect of length biased sampling of unobserved sojourn times on the survival distribution when disease is screen detected.}, journal = {Statistics in medicine}, volume = {28}, number = {16}, pages = {2116-2146}, doi = {10.1002/sim.3601}, pmid = {19424959}, issn = {1097-0258}, mesh = {Biometry/*methods ; Breast Neoplasms/diagnosis/mortality ; Data Interpretation, Statistical ; Female ; Humans ; Mass Screening/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Models, Statistical ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Sampling Studies ; Survival Analysis ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Data can arise as a length-biased sample rather than as a random sample; e.g. a sample of patients in hospitals or of network cable lines (experimental units with longer stays or longer lines have greater likelihoods of being sampled). The distribution arising from a single length-biased sampling (LBS) time has been derived (e.g. (The Statistical Analysis of Discrete Time Events. Oxford Press: London, 1972)) and applies when the observed outcome relates to the random variable subjected to LBS. Zelen (Breast Cancer: Trends in Research and Treatment. Raven Press: New York, 1976; 287-301) noted that cases of disease detected from a screening program likewise form a length-biased sample among all cases, since longer sojourn times afford greater likelihoods of being screen detected. In contrast to the samples on hospital stays and cable lines, however, the length-biased sojourns (preclinical durations) cannot be observed, although their subsequent clinical durations (survival times) are. This article quantifies the effect of LBS of the sojourn times (or pre-clinical durations) on the distribution of the observed clinical durations when cases undergo periodic screening for the early detection of disease. We show that, when preclinical and clinical durations are positively correlated, the mean, median, and quartiles of the distribution of the clinical duration from screen-detected cases can be substantially inflated-even in the absence of any benefit on survival from the screening procedure. Screening studies that report mean survival time need to take account of the fact that, even in the absence of any real benefit, the mean survival among cases in the screen-detected group will be longer than that among interval cases or among cases that arise in the control arm, above and beyond lead time bias, simply by virtue of the LBS phenomenon}, }
@article {pmid19403538, year = {2009}, author = {Wicherts, JM and Johnson, W}, title = {Group differences in the heritability of items and test scores.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {276}, number = {1667}, pages = {2675-2683}, pmid = {19403538}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Humans ; Intelligence/*genetics ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {It is important to understand potential sources of group differences in the heritability of intelligence test scores. On the basis of a basic item response model we argue that heritabilities which are based on dichotomous item scores normally do not generalize from one sample to the next. If groups differ in mean ability, the functioning of items at different ability levels may result in group differences in the heritability of items, even when these items function equivalently across groups and the heritability of the underlying ability is equal across groups. We illustrate this graphically, by computer simulation, and by focusing on several problems associated with a recent study by Rushton et al. who argued that the heritability estimates of items of Raven's Progressive Matrices test in North-American twin samples generalized to other population groups, and hence that the population group differences on this test of general mental ability (or intelligence) had a substantial genetic component. Our results show that item heritabilities are strongly dependent on the group on which the heritabilities were based. Rushton et al.'s results were artefactual and do not speak to the nature of population group differences in intelligence test performance.}, }
@article {pmid19402766, year = {2009}, author = {Balança, G and Gaidet, N and Savini, G and Vollot, B and Foucart, A and Reiter, P and Boutonnier, A and Lelli, R and Monicat, F}, title = {Low West Nile virus circulation in wild birds in an area of recurring outbreaks in Southern France.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {9}, number = {6}, pages = {737-741}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2008.0147}, pmid = {19402766}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/*blood ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/immunology ; Birds/blood/*immunology/*virology ; France/epidemiology ; Neutralization Tests/veterinary ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/veterinary ; West Nile virus/*immunology ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) has a history of irregular but recurrent epizootics in countries of Mediterranean and of Central and Eastern Europe. We have investigated the temporal enzootic activity of WNV in free-ranging birds over a 3-year period in an area with sporadic occurrences of WNV outbreaks in Southern France. We conducted an intensive serologic survey on several wild bird populations (>4000 serum samples collected from 3300 birds) selected as potential indicators of the WNV circulation. WNV antibodies were detected by seroneutralization and/or plaque reduction neutralization in house sparrows, black-billed magpies, and scops owls, but these species appeared to be insufficient indicators of WNV circulation. Overall seroprevalence was low (<1%), including in birds that had been potentially exposed to the virus during recent outbreaks. However, the detection of a seroconversion in one bird, as well as the detection of seropositive birds in all years of our monitoring, including juveniles, indicate a constant annual circulation of WNV at a low level, including in years without any detectable emergence of WN fever in horses or humans.}, }
@article {pmid19377859, year = {2009}, author = {Satoh, M and Takeda, K and Kuzuhara, S}, title = {Agraphia in intellectually normal Japanese patients with ALS: omission of kana letters.}, journal = {Journal of neurology}, volume = {256}, number = {9}, pages = {1455-1460}, pmid = {19377859}, issn = {1432-1459}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Agraphia/diagnostic imaging/*etiology ; Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/*complications/diagnostic imaging ; Brain/blood supply/diagnostic imaging ; Disease Progression ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Iodine Radioisotopes ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Severity of Illness Index ; Tomography, Emission-Computed, Single-Photon ; Writing ; }, abstract = {To investigate the occurrence of a writing defect, omission of kana letters (OKL), in intellectually normal Japanese patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and define the neuroimaging profile of OKL. Sixteen Japanese adults (10 men and 6 women), similar in age (mean 62.9 +/- 9.9 years) and level of education (mean 12.6 +/- 2.13 years), with early-stage, classical ALS (mean duration 15.9 +/- 5.45 months) were investigated, including tests of motor function and ALS progression; intellectual function including writing ability; and neuroimaging, with follow-up of 1 year. Main outcome measures were as follows: Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM: intellect and psychomotor speed); one-minute verbal fluency measurement; paired associate word-learning test (PAWLT); Western Aphasia Battery (WAB); moraic segmentation test; magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); and (123)I-isopropyl amphetamine ((123)I-IMP) or (99m)Tc-ethylcysteinate dimmer (ECD) single photon emission tomography (SPECT). Three patients (18.8%) showed OKL (WAB), with disturbance in moraic segmentation. One patient showed decreased blood flow to the bilateral frontal lobes by (123)I-IMP-SPECT. Patients with OKL did not differ significantly from those without in the RCPM (intellect), RCPM (time), verbal fluency, or PAWLT (p = 0.10, 0.84, 0.63, 0.55). Although motor dysfunction and weakness progressed during follow-up, none developed symptoms of dementia. The OKL may develop as a relatively early cognitive symptom in intellectually normal Japanese patients with classical ALS. The neuroimaging profile of OKL remains uncertain.}, }
@article {pmid19377012, year = {2009}, author = {Martin, GM}, title = {The 2008 American Federation For Aging Annual Research Conference: aging and cancer: two sides of the same coin?.}, journal = {The journals of gerontology. Series A, Biological sciences and medical sciences}, volume = {64}, number = {6}, pages = {615-617}, doi = {10.1093/gerona/glp053}, pmid = {19377012}, issn = {1758-535X}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/genetics/metabolism/*pathology/*physiology ; Biological Evolution ; Biological Phenomena ; Cellular Senescence ; *Congresses as Topic ; Disease Progression ; Geriatrics ; Humans ; Interprofessional Relations ; Mitochondrial Diseases/physiopathology ; Neoplasms/genetics/metabolism/*physiopathology ; Oxidative Stress ; *Research ; Signal Transduction ; Stem Cells ; Telomere ; }, abstract = {The 2008 Research Conference of the American Federation for Aging Research took place in New York City on October 6-7 and had, as its theme, the interface between the biology of cancer and the biology of aging. The first day was devoted to a series of 5-year progress reports by grantees of an innovative program jointly sponsored by the National Cancer Institute and the National Institute on Aging aimed at fostering both basic and clinical interactions and integrations among investigators with primary research interests in either the biology of aging or the biology of cancer. This was followed by a series of presentations on cell biology (Judith Campisi), evolutionary biology (Steven N. Austad), mitochondrial damage (Lawrence A. Loeb), stem cell functionality (Thomas A. Rando), oxidative stress and cancer resistance (Rochelle Buffenstein), signal transduction and replicative senescence in cancer and aging (Norman E. Sharpless), and telomere biology (Jack D. Griffith). Overview presentations were given by John W. Rowe and Harvey Jay Cohen. The conference closed with a roundtable discussion with representatives of industry in an effort to enhance communications with academicians.}, }
@article {pmid19366459, year = {2009}, author = {Smyth, RM and Spark, P and Armstrong, N and Duley, L}, title = {Magpie Trial in the UK: methods and additional data for women and children at 2 years following pregnancy complicated by pre-eclampsia.}, journal = {BMC pregnancy and childbirth}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {15}, pmid = {19366459}, issn = {1471-2393}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Anticonvulsants/*therapeutic use ; Child Behavior Disorders/chemically induced/epidemiology ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Health Services/statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Health Surveys ; Humans ; Infant ; Infertility/chemically induced/epidemiology ; Magnesium Sulfate/*therapeutic use ; Physicians, Family ; Pre-Eclampsia/*drug therapy/epidemiology ; Pregnancy ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Research Design ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Treatment Outcome ; United Kingdom/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The Magpie Trial, a randomised trial comparing magnesium sulphate with placebo for women with pre-eclampsia. This paper describes methods used for follow up in the UK, and presents additional data collected.<br><br>METHODS: In the UK 774 women and their 827 children were included; excluded were women discharged without a surviving child and families who opted out. General practitioners were sent a questionnaire when the child was around 18 months old. When the child was two years, or older, questionnaires asking about the health of the women and children were posted to families. A sample of families was offered a home visit, during which the child was assessed using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development.<br><br>RESULTS: Of the women, 12 were lost to follow up and three died. Of the children, 12 were lost to follow up, 5 were excluded and 19 died. General practitioners returned 688/759 (91%) questionnaires, as did 619/759 (82%) women. Responses were largely comparable. 32 women had serious morbidity potentially related to pre-eclampsia. 30% of children were reported to have been admitted to hospital. There were no clear differences between the randomised groups in the child's behaviour, women's fertility or use of health service resources.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Data presented here provide further reassurance about the longer term safety of magnesium sulphate when used for women with pre-eclampsia. Postal questionnaires in the UK to assess the longer term health and wellbeing of women and children recruited to trials are feasible, and can achieve a high response rate. Responses from families and general practitioners were comparable}, }
@article {pmid19351069, year = {2009}, author = {Bochkov, AV and Flannery, ME and Spicer, GS}, title = {Mites of the genus Torotrogla (Prostigmata: Syringophilidae) from North American passerines.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {46}, number = {2}, pages = {183-197}, doi = {10.1603/033.046.0203}, pmid = {19351069}, issn = {0022-2585}, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Host-Parasite Interactions ; Male ; Mites/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification/physiology ; North America ; Passeriformes/*parasitology ; }, abstract = {Five new quill mite species of the genus Torotrogla Kethley, 1970 (Acari: Syringophilidae) are described from North American passerines: T. aphelocoma sp.n. from Aphelocoma californica (Corvidae) and T. cardinalis sp.n. from Cardinalis cardinalis (Cardinalidae) in Texas; and T. coccothraustes sp.n. from Coccothraustes vespertinus (Fringillidae), T. cyanocitta sp.n. from Cyanocitta stelleri (Corvidae), and T. piranga sp.n. from Piranga ludoviciana (Thraupidae) in California. A key to females of all known Torotrogla spp. and a table with their host associations and distributions are given.}, }
@article {pmid19345101, year = {2009}, author = {von Bayern, AM and Emery, NJ}, title = {Jackdaws respond to human attentional states and communicative cues in different contexts.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {19}, number = {7}, pages = {602-606}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2009.02.062}, pmid = {19345101}, issn = {1879-0445}, support = {BBS/B/05354/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Attention/*physiology ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; *Communication ; Conflict, Psychological ; Crows/*physiology ; *Cues ; Eye Movements ; Facial Expression ; Fixation, Ocular/*physiology ; Humans ; *Social Behavior ; Visual Perception/physiology ; }, abstract = {Humans communicate their intentions and disposition using their eyes, whereas the communicative function of eyes in animals is less clear. Many species show aversive reactions to eyes, and several species gain information from conspecifics' gaze direction by automatically co-orienting with them. However, most species show little sensitivity to more subtle indicators of attention than head orientation and have difficulties using such cues in a cooperative context. Recently, some species have been found responsive to gaze direction in competitive situations. We investigated the sensitivity of jackdaws, pair-bonded social corvids that exhibit an analogous eye morphology to humans, to subtle attentional and communicative cues in two contexts and paradigms. In a conflict paradigm, we measured the birds' latency to retrieve food in front of an unfamiliar or familiar human, depending on the state and orientation of their eyes toward food. In a cooperative paradigm, we tested whether the jackdaws used familiar human's attentional or communicative cues to locate hidden food. Jackdaws were sensitive to human attentional states in the conflict situation but only responded to communicative cues in the cooperative situation. These findings may be the result of a natural tendency to attend to conspecifics' eyes or the effect of intense human contact during socialization.}, }
@article {pmid19334621, year = {2009}, author = {Zinchenko, RA and Amelina, SS and El'chinova, GI and Val'kov, RA and Kriventsova, NV and Val'kova, TI and Vetrova, NV and Shokarev, RA and Petrova, NV and Khlebnikova, OV}, title = {[Epidemiology of monogenic hereditary diseases in Rostov Oblast: population dynamic factors determining the differentiation of the load of hereditary diseases in eight districts].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {45}, number = {2}, pages = {254-262}, pmid = {19334621}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Female ; Genetic Diseases, Inborn/*epidemiology/*genetics ; *Genetic Drift ; Humans ; Male ; *Models, Genetic ; *Population Dynamics ; *Rural Population ; Russia ; *Urban Population ; }, abstract = {A genetic epidemiological study has been carried out in eight raions (districts) of Rostov oblast (region) of Russia: Tsimlyansk, Volgodonskoi, Tselina, Egorlykskaya, Millerovo, Tarasovskaya, Rodionovo-Nesvetaiskaya, and Matveevo-Kurgan raions. The population structure (the parameters of the isolation by distance model, ethnic assortative marriage, random inbreeding (F(ST), endogamy index, and ie) and the genetic demographic characteristics of the regional population (vital statistics, Crow's index, and its components) have been analyzed. The total sample size was 320925 subjects (including 114106 and 206816 urban and rural residents, respectively). The load of the main types of Mendelian diseases (autosomal dominant (AD), autosomal recessive (AR), and X-linked diseases) has been calculated for the total sample from eight districts and separately for the urban and rural populations. Substantial differences between individual districts in the AD and AR genetic loads have been found, especially upon separation into urban and rural samples. The results of correlation analysis suggest that migration and genetic drift are the main factors of genetic differentiation of populations with respect to the prevalence of hereditary diseases.}, }
@article {pmid19333774, year = {2009}, author = {Dicanio, D and Sparacio, R and Declercq, L and Corstjens, H and Muizzuddin, N and Hidalgo, J and Giacomoni, PU and Jorgensen, L and Maes, D}, title = {Calculation of apparent age by linear combination of facial skin parameters: a predictive tool to evaluate the efficacy of cosmetic treatments and to assess the predisposition to accelerated aging.}, journal = {Biogerontology}, volume = {10}, number = {6}, pages = {757-772}, doi = {10.1007/s10522-009-9222-6}, pmid = {19333774}, issn = {1573-6768}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Algorithms ; Cohort Studies ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; *Linear Models ; Middle Aged ; Predictive Value of Tests ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The estimated apparent age (EAA) was estimated by a panel of trained experts, for the individuals in a cohort. Twelve independent clinical, biophysical and biochemical parameters measured on facial skin, have been identified by multiple regression analysis, which influence the EAA of a person of chronological age (CA) (under eye lines, clinically assessed crow's feet, age spots, clinically evaluated firmness, forehead lines, pores, lip lines, instrumentally evaluated firmness, instrumentally evaluated crow feet, skin texture, in vivo fluorescence related to proliferation and glycation). An algorithm has been devised to obtain the calculated age score (CAS) in a cohort of 452 female volunteers, as CAS(n) = ∑RCiPi(n) (i = 1-13, n = 1-452 and P13 = 1) where the coefficients Ci are obtained by minimizing the difference EAA - CAS, and Pi(n) are the experimental values of the i-th parameter for the n-th volunteer. The determination of CAS before and after a specific cosmetic or pharmacological anti-aging treatment can be used to objectively assess the efficacy of the treatment. The comparison of EAA(n) and of CAS(n) with CA(n) allows one to predict the susceptibility of an individual's face to undergo aging. It has been observed that the biophysical and biochemical parameters play a relevant role in the assessment of the predisposition of skin to undergo accelerated aging.}, }
@article {pmid19333282, year = {2009}, author = {Ang, TY and Chin, MK}, title = {The effects of periodic and quasi-periodic orders on the photonic bandgap structures of microring coupled-resonator optical waveguides.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {17}, number = {7}, pages = {5176-5192}, doi = {10.1364/oe.17.005176}, pmid = {19333282}, issn = {1094-4087}, mesh = {Computer Simulation ; *Computer-Aided Design ; Equipment Design ; Equipment Failure Analysis ; Miniaturization ; *Models, Theoretical ; *Optical Devices ; Photons ; Refractometry/*instrumentation ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; *Transducers ; }, abstract = {We present a coupling matrix formalism to investigate the effects of periodic and quasi-periodic orders on the photonic bandgap (PBG) structures of coupled-resonator optical waveguides (CROWs) based on microring resonators. For the periodic order case, size-tuned defects are introduced at periodic locations among the regular rings, which are size-untuned, to form a periodic ordered CROW system. The periodic coupled defects result in multiple localization states that lead to the formation of mini-defect bands and mini-PBGs within the PBG of a defect-free CROW. The position and number of such mini-defect bands depend on the size tuning of the defects. For the quasi-periodic order case, the arrangement of the defects and the regular rings in the ring cascade is an intermediate between periodic order and randomness, thus forming a quasi-periodic ordered CROW system. The effects of quasi-periodicity on the PBG structures are illustrated using the Fibonacci sequences, which result in a single high-Q localized state to appear that gradually transits to a mini-band within a wide photonic stop band as the number of lattice cells increases.}, }
@article {pmid19331442, year = {2009}, author = {Parham, DM}, title = {In Memory of Dr. Jay Bernstein.}, journal = {Pediatric and developmental pathology : the official journal of the Society for Pediatric Pathology and the Paediatric Pathology Society}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1}, doi = {10.2350/09-03-0624-MISC.1}, pmid = {19331442}, issn = {1093-5266}, }
@article {pmid19324784, year = {2009}, author = {Townsend, AK and Clark, AB and McGowan, KJ and Buckles, EL and Miller, AD and Lovette, IJ}, title = {Disease-mediated inbreeding depression in a large, open population of cooperative crows.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {276}, number = {1664}, pages = {2057-2064}, pmid = {19324784}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/genetics/mortality ; Crows/genetics/*physiology ; Female ; *Inbreeding ; Male ; Pedigree ; Population Dynamics ; Sexual Behavior, Animal ; }, abstract = {Disease-mediated inbreeding depression is a potential cost of living in groups with kin, but its general magnitude in wild populations is unclear. We examined the relationships between inbreeding, survival and disease for 312 offspring, produced by 35 parental pairs, in a large, open population of cooperatively breeding American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos). Genetic analyses of parentage, parental relatedness coefficients and pedigree information suggested that 23 per cent of parental dyads were first- or second-order kin. Heterozygosity-heterozygosity correlations suggested that a microsatellite-based index of individual heterozygosity predicted individual genome-wide heterozygosity in this population. After excluding birds that died traumatically, survival probability was lower for relatively inbred birds during the 2-50 months after banding: the hazard rate for the most inbred birds was 170 per cent higher than that for the least inbred birds across the range of inbreeding index values. Birds that died with disease symptoms had higher inbreeding indices than birds with other fates. Our results suggest that avoidance of close inbreeding and the absence of inbreeding depression in large, open populations should not be assumed in taxa with kin-based social systems, and that microsatellite-based indices of individual heterozygosity can be an appropriate tool for examining the inbreeding depression in populations where incest and close inbreeding occur.}, }
@article {pmid19324760, year = {2009}, author = {Derégnaucourt, S and Saar, S and Gahr, M}, title = {Dynamics of crowing development in the domestic Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica).}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {276}, number = {1665}, pages = {2153-2162}, pmid = {19324760}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Coturnix/*growth &amp; development ; Male ; *Sexual Maturation ; Social Behavior ; Time Factors ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Species-specific behaviours gradually emerge, via incomplete patterns, to the final complete adult form. A classical example is birdsong, a learned behaviour ideally suited for studying the neural and molecular substrates of vocal learning. Young songbirds gradually transform primitive unstructured vocalizations (subsong, akin to human babbling) into complex, stereotyped sequences of syllables that constitute adult song. In comparison with birdsong, territorial and mating calls of vocal non-learner species are thought to exhibit little change during development. We revisited this issue using the crowing behaviour of domestic Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica). Crowing activity was continuously recorded in young males maintained in social isolation from the age of three weeks to four months. We observed developmental changes in crow structure, both the temporal and the spectral levels. Speed and trajectories of these developmental changes exhibited an unexpected high inter-individual variability. Mechanisms used by quails to transform sounds during ontogeny resemble those described in oscines during the sensorimotor phase of song learning. Studies on vocal non-learners could shed light on the specificity and evolution of vocal learning.}, }
@article {pmid19324641, year = {2009}, author = {Sanz, C and Call, J and Morgan, D}, title = {Design complexity in termite-fishing tools of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes).}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {293-296}, pmid = {19324641}, issn = {1744-9561}, mesh = {Animals ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; *Isoptera ; Male ; *Pan troglodytes ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Adopting the approach taken with New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides), we present evidence of design complexity in one of the termite-fishing tools of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) in the Goualougo Triangle, Republic of Congo. Prior to termite fishing, chimpanzees applied a set of deliberate, distinguishable actions to modify herb stems to fashion a brush-tipped probe, which is different from the form of fishing tools used by chimpanzees in East and West Africa. This means that 'brush-tipped fishing probes', unlike 'brush sticks', are not a by-product of use but a deliberate design feature absent in other chimpanzee populations. The specialized modifications to prepare the tool for termite fishing, measures taken to repair non-functional brushes and appropriate orientation of the modified end suggest that these wild chimpanzees are attentive to tool modifications. We also conducted experimental trials that showed that a brush-tipped probe is more effective in gathering insects than an unmodified fishing probe. Based on these findings, we suggest that chimpanzees in the Congo Basin have developed an improved fishing probe design.}, }
@article {pmid19308847, year = {2009}, author = {Counter, SA and Buchanan, LH and Ortega, F}, title = {Neurocognitive screening of lead-exposed andean adolescents and young adults.}, journal = {Journal of toxicology and environmental health. Part A}, volume = {72}, number = {10}, pages = {625-632}, doi = {10.1080/15287390902769410}, pmid = {19308847}, issn = {1528-7394}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention/drug effects ; Child ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Ecuador ; Female ; Heme/metabolism ; Humans ; Lead/blood ; Lead Poisoning, Nervous System/diagnosis/*psychology ; Male ; Memory/drug effects ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Occupational Exposure ; Protoporphyrins/blood ; Psychometrics ; Space Perception/drug effects ; Visual Perception/drug effects ; Wechsler Scales ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {This study was designed to assess the utility of two psychometric tests with putative minimal cultural bias for use in field screening of lead (Pb)-exposed Ecuadorian Andean workers. Specifically, the study evaluated the effectiveness in Pb-exposed adolescents and young adults of a nonverbal reasoning test standardized for younger children, and compared the findings with performance on a test of auditory memory. The Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) was used as a test of nonverbal intelligence, and the Digit Span subtest of the Wechsler IV intelligence scale was used to assess auditory memory/attention. The participants were 35 chronically Pb-exposed Pb-glazing workers, aged 12-21 yr. Blood lead (PbB) levels for the study group ranged from 3 to 86 microg/dl, with 65.7% of the group at and above 10 microg/dl. Zinc protoporphyrin heme ratios (ZPP/heme) ranged from 38 to 380 micromol/mol, with 57.1% of the participants showing abnormal ZPP/heme (>69 micromol/mol). ZPP/heme was significantly correlated with PbB levels, suggesting chronic Pb exposure. Performance on the RCPM was less than average on the U.S., British, and Puerto Rican norms, but average on the Peruvian norms. Significant inverse associations between PbB/ZPP concentrations and RCPM standard scores using the U.S., Puerto Rican, and Peruvian norms were observed, indicating decreasing RCPM test performance with increasing PbB and ZPP levels. RCPM scores were significantly correlated with performance on the Digit Span test for auditory memory. Mean Digit Span scale score was less than average, suggesting auditory memory/attention deficits. In conclusion, both the RCPM and Digit Span tests were found to be effective instruments for field screening of visual-spatial reasoning and auditory memory abilities, respectively, in Pb-exposed Andean adolescents and young adults.}, }
@article {pmid19306203, year = {2009}, author = {Coxe, R and Holmes, W}, title = {A comparative study of two groups of sex offenders identified as high and low risk on the static-99.}, journal = {Journal of child sexual abuse}, volume = {18}, number = {2}, pages = {137-153}, doi = {10.1080/10538710902743925}, pmid = {19306203}, issn = {1053-8712}, mesh = {Adult ; Child ; Child Abuse, Sexual/*psychology ; Criminal Psychology/*methods ; Humans ; Interpersonal Relations ; MMPI ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Pedophilia/*psychology ; Personality Assessment/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Prisoners/*psychology ; Risk Assessment/methods ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to identify possible differences between high- and low-risk sex offenders. The subjects included 285 sex offenders on probation. They were evaluated with the Static-99, Abel Assessment, Raven's, and MMPI-2. A criminal history review identified the number of prior offenses and the age/sex category in the index offense. The high- and low-risk groups were compared on 26 variables: intelligence, age, criminal history, denial patterns, measured sexual interest in children, admission of sexual interests, a childhood history of sexual abuse, victim's age, and personality variables. Four variables significantly accounted for 64% of the variance: age, prior number of felonies, the Cognitive Distortion Score, and the MMPI-2 Infrequency scale score.}, }
@article {pmid19297470, year = {2009}, author = {Schlick, P and Taucher, C and Schittl, B and Tran, JL and Kofler, RM and Schueler, W and von Gabain, A and Meinke, A and Mandl, CW}, title = {Helices alpha2 and alpha3 of West Nile virus capsid protein are dispensable for assembly of infectious virions.}, journal = {Journal of virology}, volume = {83}, number = {11}, pages = {5581-5591}, pmid = {19297470}, issn = {1098-5514}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Capsid Proteins/*chemistry/genetics/metabolism ; Cell Line ; Cell Proliferation ; Chlorocebus aethiops ; Cricetinae ; DNA, Complementary/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Gene Deletion ; Genome, Viral/genetics ; Models, Molecular ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Mutation/genetics ; Protein Binding ; Protein C/metabolism ; Protein Structure, Secondary ; Protein Structure, Tertiary ; RNA, Viral/genetics ; Sequence Alignment ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Virion/*chemistry ; *Virus Assembly ; West Nile virus/*chemistry/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/metabolism ; }, abstract = {The internal hydrophobic sequence within the flaviviral capsid protein (protein C) plays an important role in the assembly of infectious virions. Here, this sequence was analyzed in a West Nile virus lineage I isolate (crow V76/1). An infectious cDNA clone was constructed and used to introduce deletions into the internal hydrophobic domain which comprises helix alpha2 and part of the loop intervening helices alpha2 and alpha3. In total, nine capsid deletion mutants (4 to 14 amino acids long) were constructed and tested for virus viability. Some of the short deletions did not significantly affect growth in cell culture, whereas larger deletions removing almost the entire hydrophobic region significantly impaired viral growth. Efficient growth of the majority of mutants could, however, be restored by the acquisition of second-site mutations. In most cases, these resuscitating mutations were point mutations within protein C changing individual amino acids into more hydrophobic residues, reminiscent of what had been observed previously for another flavivirus, tick-borne encephalitis virus. However, we also identified viable spontaneous pseudorevertants with more than one-third of the capsid protein removed, i.e., 36 or 37 of a total of 105 residues, including all of helix alpha3 and a hydrophilic segment connecting alpha3 and alpha4. These large deletions are predicted to induce formation of large, predominantly hydrophobic fusion helices which may substitute for the loss of the internal hydrophobic domain, underlining the unrivaled structural and functional flexibility of protein C.}, }
@article {pmid19286781, year = {2009}, author = {Hughes, LA and Bennett, M and Coffey, P and Elliott, J and Jones, TR and Jones, RC and Lahuerta-Marin, A and Leatherbarrow, AH and McNiffe, K and Norman, D and Williams, NJ and Chantrey, J}, title = {Molecular epidemiology and characterization of Campylobacter spp. isolated from wild bird populations in northern England.}, journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology}, volume = {75}, number = {10}, pages = {3007-3015}, pmid = {19286781}, issn = {1098-5336}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bacterial Typing Techniques ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/*microbiology ; Birds ; Campylobacter/*classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Campylobacter Infections/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; Cluster Analysis ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics ; Electrophoresis, Gel, Pulsed-Field ; England/epidemiology ; Feces/microbiology ; Genotype ; Molecular Epidemiology ; Prevalence ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Campylobacter infections have been reported at prevalences ranging from 2 to 50% in a range of wild bird species, although there have been few studies that have investigated the molecular epidemiology of Campylobacter spp. Consequently, whether wild birds are a source of infection in humans or domestic livestock or are mainly recipients of domestic animal strains and whether separate cycles of infection occur remain unknown. To address these questions, serial cross-sectional surveys of wild bird populations in northern England were carried out over a 2-year period. Fecal samples were collected from 2,084 wild bird individuals and screened for the presence of Campylobacter spp. A total of 56 isolates were recovered from 29 birds sampled at 15 of 167 diverse locales. Campylobacter jejuni, Campylobacter lari, and Campylobacter coli were detected by PCR, and the prevalences of different Campylobacter spp. in different avian families ranged from 0% to 33%. Characterization of 36 C. jejuni isolates by multilocus sequence typing revealed that wild birds carry both livestock-associated and unique strains of C. jejuni. However, the apparent absence of unique wild bird strains of C. jejuni in livestock suggests that the direction of infection is predominantly from livestock to wild birds. C. lari was detected mainly in wild birds sampled in an estuarine or coastal habitat. Fifteen C. lari isolates were analyzed by macrorestriction pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, which revealed genetically diverse populations of C. lari in Eurasian oystercatchers (Haematopus ostralegus) and clonal populations in magpies (Pica pica).}, }
@article {pmid19278788, year = {2009}, author = {Anderson, NL and Grahn, RA and Van Hoosear, K and Bondurant, RH}, title = {Studies of trichomonad protozoa in free ranging songbirds: prevalence of Trichomonas gallinae in house finches (Carpodacus mexicanus) and corvids and a novel trichomonad in mockingbirds (Mimus polyglottos).}, journal = {Veterinary parasitology}, volume = {161}, number = {3-4}, pages = {178-186}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetpar.2009.01.023}, pmid = {19278788}, issn = {0304-4017}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; DNA, Ribosomal Spacer/genetics ; Ecosystem ; Phylogeny ; Prevalence ; Protozoan Infections, Animal/epidemiology/mortality/*parasitology ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; *Songbirds ; Time Factors ; Trichomonadida/*classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {This study refutes the accepted dogma that significant pathogenic effects of Trichomonas gallinae are limited to columbiformes and raptors in free ranging bird populations in North America. Trichomonads were associated with morbidity and mortality amongst free ranging house finches (Carpodacus mexicanus), mockingbirds (Mimus polyglottos) and corvids (scrub jay: Aphelocoma californica; crow: Corvus brachyrhynchos; raven: Corvus corax) in northern California. Prevalence of trichomonad infection was 1.7% in house finches, 0-6.3% in corvids, and 0.9% in mockingbirds. Bird case fatality ratio was 95.5% in house finches, 0-100.0% in corvids, and 37.5% in mockingbirds. DNA sequences of parasites in house finches and corvids were identical to T. gallinae strain g7 (GeneBank AY349182.1) for the 5.8s ribosome. DNA sequences of parasites cultured from two mockingbirds were genetically distinct from that of available sequenced trichomonads. These isolates were clearly phylogenetically more closely related to the Trichomonadinae than the Tritrichomonadinae. While molecular techniques were required to differentiate between trichomonad species, wet mount preparations from the oral cavity/crop were a reliable and inexpensive method of screening for trichomonad infections in these species. Positive wet mount tests in house finches and corvids living in northern California were highly likely to indicate infection with T. gallinae, while in mockingbirds positive wet mounts most likely indicated a trichomonad other than T. gallinae.}, }
@article {pmid19277832, year = {2009}, author = {Lee, E and Aoyama, M and Sugita, S}, title = {Microstructure of the feather in Japanese Jungle Crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) with distinguishing gender differences.}, journal = {Anatomical science international}, volume = {84}, number = {3}, pages = {141-147}, doi = {10.1007/s12565-009-0022-5}, pmid = {19277832}, issn = {1447-073X}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology/metabolism ; Feathers/metabolism/*ultrastructure ; Female ; Male ; Melanins/*metabolism ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Microscopy, Electron, Transmission ; *Pigmentation ; *Sex Characteristics ; }, abstract = {Assessing gender difference in Japanese Jungle Crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) is difficult by gross observation because both sexes have black plumage colors. Careful observation of the plumage, however, reveals that it is actually iridescent glossy purple and dark-green in color, and that these colors are more marked in adult males than in females. In birds, such iridescent structural colors are generally produced in the feather barbules, where light is scattered constructively by laminar arrays consisting of alternating layers of materials with different refractive indices, namely keratin, melanin and air. We have investigated differences in the microstructure of the feathers of male and female Jungle Crows by means of scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Male birds had more barbs than females, and the length of the prongs was shorter in males than in females. The density of the melanin granules in the cross-section of barbules was higher in males than in females. Moreover, only in males did the melanin granules show an ordered arrangement beneath a keratin cortex layer at the edges of barbules. These results demonstrate that there are microstructural differences in the feathers of male and female Jungle Crows and suggest that the Jungle Crows' feathers may have iridescent coloring that differs according to gender.}, }
@article {pmid19274802, year = {2009}, author = {Watkins, JB}, title = {Presentation of the 2008 Murray Davidson Award to Jay A. Perman, MD.}, journal = {Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition}, volume = {48}, number = {3}, pages = {247-248}, doi = {10.1097/mpg.0b013e31819d2033}, pmid = {19274802}, issn = {1536-4801}, mesh = {*Awards and Prizes ; *Gastroenterology/history ; History, 21st Century ; North America ; *Pediatrics/history ; Societies, Medical ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid19272298, year = {2009}, author = {Fleming, AS and Numan, M and Bridges, RS}, title = {Father of mothering: Jay S. Rosenblatt.}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {55}, number = {4}, pages = {484-487}, doi = {10.1016/j.yhbeh.2009.01.001}, pmid = {19272298}, issn = {1095-6867}, mesh = {Animals ; Awards and Prizes ; Female ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Maternal Behavior/*physiology ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid19269215, year = {2009}, author = {Tennakoon, S and Perera, B and Haturusinghe, L}, title = {Intentional poisoning cases of animals with anticholinesterase pesticide-carbofuran in Sri Lanka.}, journal = {Legal medicine (Tokyo, Japan)}, volume = {11 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {S500-2}, doi = {10.1016/j.legalmed.2009.01.033}, pmid = {19269215}, issn = {1873-4162}, mesh = {Animals ; Carbofuran/*poisoning ; Cattle ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid ; Crows ; Dogs ; Elephants ; Forensic Toxicology ; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry ; Gastrointestinal Contents/chemistry ; Gizzard, Avian/chemistry ; Insecticides/*poisoning ; Liver/chemistry ; Sri Lanka ; }, abstract = {Carbofuran is a broad spectrum insecticide and nematicide which inhibits acetyl cholinesterase. Several intentional poisoning cases of animals and birds including crows, dogs, cow, and elephant, using carbofuran were reported in Sri Lanka. Qualitative analysis of carbofuran in biological specimens was carried out using T.L.C and GC-MS. The quantitative analysis was carried out by HPLC using Zorbax Eclips XDB-C18 (150 x 4.6 mm I.D x 5 microm particle size) column with acetonitrile: water 25:75 v/v mobile phase and UV detection at 210 nm. The liquid-liquid extraction with chloroform was reproducible and sensitive. The procedure was validated in terms of linearity (0.996<r<0.999) for concentrations ranging from 1 to 200 microg/ml, repeatability (RSD 4.4% at 100 microg/ml, n=10) extraction recovery (91.7% at 100 microg/g, 77.3% at 20 microg/g), limit of detection (S/N ratio=3, 0.7 microg/ml) and limit of quantification (S/N ratio=10, 2.4 microg/ml). The method was found satisfactory and successfully applied in fatal cases of animals and birds due to carbofuran poisoning. The fatal carbofuran levels detected were in the range of 42-910 microg/g in crow's gizzard and contents, 50-800 microg/g in dog's stomach contents, 13-20 microg/g in dog's liver, 0.9 microg/g in cow's stomach and contents, 35 microg/g in elephant's stomach and contents.}, }
@article {pmid19256882, year = {2008}, author = {Muñoz, E and Park, JM and Deem, MW}, title = {Quasispecies theory for horizontal gene transfer and recombination.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {78}, number = {6 Pt 1}, pages = {061921}, pmid = {19256882}, issn = {1539-3755}, support = {R90 DK071504/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Biophysical Phenomena ; Epistasis, Genetic ; Evolution, Molecular ; *Gene Transfer, Horizontal ; *Models, Genetic ; Mutation ; Nonlinear Dynamics ; *Recombination, Genetic ; Stochastic Processes ; }, abstract = {We introduce a generalization of the parallel, or Crow-Kimura, and Eigen models of molecular evolution to represent the exchange of genetic information between individuals in a population. We study the effect of different schemes of genetic recombination on the steady-state mean fitness and distribution of individuals in the population, through an analytic field theoretic mapping. We investigate both horizontal gene transfer from a population and recombination between pairs of individuals. Somewhat surprisingly, these nonlinear generalizations of quasispecies theory to modern biology are analytically solvable. For two-parent recombination, we find two selected phases, one of which is spectrally rigid. We present exact analytical formulas for the equilibrium mean fitness of the population, in terms of a maximum principle, which are generally applicable to any permutation invariant replication rate function. For smooth fitness landscapes, we show that when positive epistatic interactions are present, recombination or horizontal gene transfer introduces a mild load against selection. Conversely, if the fitness landscape exhibits negative epistasis, horizontal gene transfer or recombination introduces an advantage by enhancing selection towards the fittest genotypes. These results prove that the mutational deterministic hypothesis holds for quasispecies models. For the discontinuous single sharp peak fitness landscape, we show that horizontal gene transfer has no effect on the fitness, while recombination decreases the fitness, for both the parallel and the Eigen models. We present numerical and analytical results as well as phase diagrams for the different cases.}, }
@article {pmid19252000, year = {2009}, author = {Smith, CL and Evans, CS}, title = {Silent tidbitting in male fowl, Gallus gallus: a referential visual signal with multiple functions.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {212}, number = {Pt 6}, pages = {835-842}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.023572}, pmid = {19252000}, issn = {0022-0949}, mesh = {*Animal Communication ; Animals ; Chickens/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {With the notable exception of bee dances, there are no established examples of multimodal referential signals. The food calls of male fowl, Gallus gallus, are functionally referential and the acoustic component of a multimodal display. However, the specificity of the receiver's response to the visual component (tidbitting) has never been tested. Here we provide the first detailed analysis of tidbitting, and test the hypothesis that these characteristic movements are functionally referential. We conducted a playback experiment with five high-definition video stimuli: Silent tidbit, Matched-frequency motion in the opposite direction, Silent crows, Inactive male and Empty cage. Females searched for food more during Silent tidbitting than under any other condition, suggesting that this visual display specifically predicts the presence of food and hence has similar functional properties to food calls. Silent tidbitting was also singularly effective at evoking approach and close inspection, which may enhance signal memorability. These social responses suggest that the visual component of the display has the unique function of triggering assessment of signaler identity and quality as a potential mate. The acoustic and visual components are hence redundant as a food signal, but synergistic when additional functions are considered. These findings emphasize the perceptual complexity of multimodal displays and provide the first demonstration of multimodal referential signaling in a vertebrate.}, }
@article {pmid19251998, year = {2009}, author = {Sandell, MI and Tobler, M and Hasselquist, D}, title = {Yolk androgens and the development of avian immunity: an experiment in jackdaws (Corvus monedula).}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {212}, number = {Pt 6}, pages = {815-822}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.022111}, pmid = {19251998}, issn = {0022-0949}, mesh = {Androgens/administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology ; Androstenedione/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; Animals ; Antigens, Bacterial/immunology ; Crows/*immunology ; Diphtheria Toxoid/immunology ; Egg Yolk/*chemistry ; Female ; Lipopolysaccharides/immunology ; Phytohemagglutinins/immunology ; Testosterone/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; Tetanus Toxoid/immunology ; }, abstract = {Maternally derived androgens have been shown to influence offspring phenotype in various ways. In birds, the benefits of prenatal androgen exposure, such as increased competitiveness and accelerated growth in nestlings, have been suggested to be balanced by costs, such as reduced immune function. In this study, we used an integrative approach to examine the influence of yolk androgens on the development of immune function in jackdaw (Corvus monedula) nestlings. Specifically, we tested whether the effects of yolk androgens on offspring immunity may extend over the first few days of life and be detectable even after several weeks. We manipulated yolk androgen concentrations in jackdaw eggs and estimated immune responsiveness by challenging the young with different pathogens at different stages of the nestling period. Six-day-old chicks hatched from eggs with elevated yolk androgen levels had lower pre-challenge antibody titres against lipopolysaccharide (LPS) than control chicks. However, antibody titres against LPS did not differ between treatment groups eight days after a challenge with LPS. During the late nestling phase, both humoral (towards diphtheria/tetanus antigens) and cell-mediated (towards phytohaemagglutinin) immune responsiveness were lower in chicks from yolk androgen-treated eggs compared with control chicks. Our experimental study on jackdaw chicks shows that elevated yolk androgen levels result in a general immunosuppression in offspring; this conclusion was based on results for several immunological tests of both humoral and cell-mediated immunity conducted at 1-2 and 3-4 weeks of age.}, }
@article {pmid19251490, year = {2009}, author = {Flynn, JR}, title = {Requiem for nutrition as the cause of IQ gains: Raven's gains in Britain 1938-2008.}, journal = {Economics and human biology}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {18-27}, doi = {10.1016/j.ehb.2009.01.009}, pmid = {19251490}, issn = {1873-6130}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; England ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; *Intelligence Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; *Nutritional Status ; }, abstract = {The hypothesis that enhanced nutrition is mainly responsible for massive IQ gains over time borrows plausibility from the height gains of the 20th century. However, evidence shows that the two trends are largely independent. A detailed analysis of IQ trends on the Raven's Progressive Matrices tests in Britain dramatizes the poverty of the nutrition hypothesis. A multiple factor hypothesis that operates on three levels is offered as an alternative instrument of causal explanation. The Raven's data show that over the 65 years from circa 1942 to the present, taking ages 5-15 together, British school children have gained 14 IQ points for a rate of 0.216 points per year. However, since 1979, gains have declined with age and between the ages of 12-13 and 14-15, small gains turn into small losses. This is confirmed by Piagetian data and poses the possibility that the cognitive demands of teen-age subculture have been stagnant over perhaps the last 30 years.}, }
@article {pmid19246501, year = {2009}, author = {Hoffman, P and Kordybach, M and Rózański, J and Kuśmierczyk, M and Kowalski, M}, title = {Anterior leaflet on the leash: unusual cause of congenital severe mitral regurgitation.}, journal = {European journal of echocardiography : the journal of the Working Group on Echocardiography of the European Society of Cardiology}, volume = {10}, number = {4}, pages = {567-568}, doi = {10.1093/ejechocard/jep016}, pmid = {19246501}, issn = {1532-2114}, mesh = {Echocardiography, Doppler, Color ; Exercise Tolerance ; Female ; Humans ; Mitral Valve/*abnormalities/diagnostic imaging ; Mitral Valve Insufficiency/*congenital/diagnostic imaging ; Mitral Valve Prolapse/*diagnostic imaging/surgery ; Systolic Murmurs ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Isolated-congenital mitral regurgitation is infrequently seen in adults. In its mechanism, the entire mitral apparatus or different components separately can play a role [Gallet B. Use of echocardiography in mitral regurgitation for the assessment of its mechanism and aetiology for the morphological analysis of the mitral valve. Ann Cardiol Angeiol 2003;52(2):70-7; Valdes-Cruz LM, O'Cayre R. Echocardiographic Diagnosis of Congenital Heart Disease. Philadelphia, NY: Lippincott-Raven; 1998; Carpentier A, Branchini B, Cour JC, Asfaou E, Villani M, Deloche A et al. Congenital malformations of the mitral valve in children. Pathology and surgical treatment. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 1976;72: 854-66]. We report a case of an unusual congenital mitral regurgitation resulting from restriction of the mitral leaflet caused by thick fibrotic tissue connecting left atrial roof and the anterior leaflet precluding sufficient coaptation. To the best of our knowledge, this pathology has never been reported before.}, }
@article {pmid19218668, year = {2008}, author = {Menzyk, K and Cajdler, A and Pokorski, M}, title = {Influence of physical activity on psychosomatic health in obese women.}, journal = {Journal of physiology and pharmacology : an official journal of the Polish Physiological Society}, volume = {59 Suppl 6}, number = {}, pages = {441-448}, pmid = {19218668}, issn = {1899-1505}, mesh = {Adult ; Anthropometry ; Body Mass Index ; Depression/epidemiology/psychology ; *Health Status ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Motor Activity/*physiology ; Obesity/*physiopathology/psychology ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Psychometrics ; *Quality of Life ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {It is unclear to what extent the known psychosomatic benefits of exercise hold true for the obese. In the present study, we investigated the hypothesis that the psychosomatic health and components of general intelligence, such as the capacity for logical-deductive tasks, would be better in regularly exercising than non-exercising obese women. We addressed the issue in a self-reported survey study, comprising two groups of middle-aged obese women (age 30-50 years, BMI >30 kg/m(2)) of 25 persons each. The criterion for the group division was regular exercise, minimum twice a week, for at least 2 months. The following psychometric tools were used: Physical Fitness and Exercise Scale, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 for depression, Life Satisfaction Scale, General Health Inventory-28, Raven's Matrices Test for intelligence, and a test for selfcontentment with one's body figure shape. The exercising obese women scored significantly better in Life Satisfaction Scale (17.1 +/- 1.2 vs.12.0 +/- 0.9), had a lower level of depression (8.1 +/- 0.6 vs. 13.4 +/- 0.7), and a better assessment of the health status (24.6 +/- 1.6 vs. 36.4 +/- 2.2) (reversed score) compared with non-exercising ones (P<0.05). The exercising obese women also appreciably better assessed their bodily looks. Interestingly, if depression was present in exercising women, it had more detrimental health effects than in physically inactive ones. The study failed to substantiate appreciable changes in general intelligence between active and non-active obese women. In conclusion, physical activity is of benefit for the psychosomatic health in obese women, which should be considered in behavioral counseling.}, }
@article {pmid19240813, year = {2009}, author = {Dall, SR and Wright, J}, title = {Rich pickings near large communal roosts favor 'gang' foraging by juvenile common ravens, Corvus corax.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {4}, number = {2}, pages = {e4530}, doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0004530}, pmid = {19240813}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animal Communication ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Crows ; *Feeding Behavior ; Seasons ; *Social Behavior ; Social Environment ; }, abstract = {Ravens (Corvus corax) feed primarily on rich but ephemeral carcasses of large animals, which are usually defended by territorial pairs of adults. Non-breeding juveniles forage socially and aggregate in communal winter roosts, and these appear to function as 'information centers' regarding the location of the rare food bonanzas: individuals search independently of one another and pool their effort by recruiting each other at roosts. However, at a large raven roost in Newborough on Anglesey, North Wales, some juveniles have been observed recently to forage in 'gangs' and to roost separately from other birds. Here we adapt a general model of juvenile common raven foraging behavior where, in addition to the typical co-operative foraging strategy, such gang foraging behavior could be evolutionarily stable near winter raven roosts. We refocus the model on the conditions under which this newly documented, yet theoretically anticipated, gang-based foraging has been observed. In the process, we show formally how the trade off between search efficiency and social opportunity can account for the existence of the alternative social foraging tactics that have been observed in this species. This work serves to highlight a number of fruitful avenues for future research, both from a theoretical and empirical perspective.}, }
@article {pmid19223971, year = {2009}, author = {Angrilli, A and Spironelli, C and Elbert, T and Crow, TJ and Marano, G and Stegagno, L}, title = {Schizophrenia as failure of left hemispheric dominance for the phonological component of language.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {4}, number = {2}, pages = {e4507}, pmid = {19223971}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Articulation Disorders/*physiopathology ; Brain Mapping ; Case-Control Studies ; *Dominance, Cerebral ; Evoked Potentials ; Hallucinations ; Humans ; *Language ; Schizophrenia/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: T. J. Crow suggested that the genetic variance associated with the evolution in Homo sapiens of hemispheric dominance for language carries with it the hazard of the symptoms of schizophrenia. Individuals lacking the typical left hemisphere advantage for language, in particular for phonological components, would be at increased risk of the typical symptoms such as auditory hallucinations and delusions.<br><br>Twelve schizophrenic patients treated with low levels of neuroleptics and twelve matched healthy controls participated in an event-related potential experiment. Subjects matched word-pairs in three tasks: rhyming/phonological, semantic judgment and word recognition. Slow evoked potentials were recorded from 26 scalp electrodes, and a laterality index was computed for anterior and posterior regions during the inter stimulus interval. During phonological processing individuals with schizophrenia failed to achieve the left hemispheric dominance consistently observed in healthy controls. The effect involved anterior (fronto-temporal) brain regions and was specific for the Phonological task; group differences were small or absent when subjects processed the same stimulus material in a Semantic task or during Word Recognition, i.e. during tasks that typically activate more widespread areas in both hemispheres.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: We show for the first time how the deficit of lateralization in the schizophrenic brain is specific for the phonological component of language. This loss of hemispheric dominance would explain typical symptoms, e.g. when an individual's own thoughts are perceived as an external intruding voice. The change can be interpreted as a consequence of "hemispheric indecision", a failure to segregate phonological engrams in one hemisphere.}, }
@article {pmid19198528, year = {2009}, author = {Reisen, WK and Carroll, BD and Takahashi, R and Fang, Y and Garcia, S and Martinez, VM and Quiring, R}, title = {Repeated West Nile virus epidemic transmission in Kern County, California, 2004-2007.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {46}, number = {1}, pages = {139-157}, pmid = {19198528}, issn = {0022-2585}, support = {R01 AI055607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI055607-05/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI55607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aedes/virology ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/virology ; Birds/virology ; California ; Climate ; Culex/virology ; *Disease Outbreaks ; Humans ; Incidence ; Mosquito Control ; Population Density ; Risk Assessment ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/transmission ; *West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) has remained epidemic in Kern County, CA, since its introduction in 2004 through 2007 when the human case annual incidence increased from 6-8 to 17 per 100,000, respectively. The 2007 increase in human infection was associated with contradicting surveillance indicators, including severe drought, warm spring but cool summer temperature anomalies, decreased rural and urban mosquito abundance but increased early season infection in urban Culex quinquefasciatus Say, moderate avian "herd immunity," and declines in the catch of competent (western scrub-jay and house finch) and noncompetent (California quail and mourning dove) avian species. The decline in these noncompetent avian hosts may have increased contact with competent avian hosts and perhaps humans. The marked increase in home foreclosures and associated neglected swimming pools increased urban mosquito production sites, most likely contributing to the urban mosquito population and the WNV outbreak within Bakersfield. Coalescing five surveillance indicators into a risk assessment score measured each half month provided 2- to 6-wk early warning for emergency planning and was followed consistently by the onset of human cases after reaching epidemic conditions. St. Louis encephalitis virus (SLEV) antibody was detected rarely in wild birds but not mosquitoes or sentinel chickens, indicating that previously infected birds were detected in Kern County, but SLEV reintroduction was not successful. In contrast, western equine encephalitis virus (WEEV) was detected during 3 of 5 yr in Culex tarsalis Coquillett, sentinel chickens, and wild birds, but failed to amplify to levels where tangential transmission was detected in Aedes mosquitoes or humans. A comparison of transmission patterns in Kern County to Coachella Valley in the southeastern desert of California showed the importance of mosquito phenology and spatial distribution, corvids, or other avian "super spreaders" and anthropogenic factors in WNV epidemiology.}, }
@article {pmid19132312, year = {2008}, author = {Bullinger, M and Brütt, AL and Erhart, M and Ravens-Sieberer, U and , }, title = {Psychometric properties of the KINDL-R questionnaire: results of the BELLA study.}, journal = {European child &amp; adolescent psychiatry}, volume = {17 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {125-132}, pmid = {19132312}, issn = {1018-8827}, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological ; Adolescent ; Child ; Discriminant Analysis ; Female ; Germany/epidemiology ; *Health Status ; *Health Surveys ; Humans ; Interpersonal Relations ; Male ; *Mental Health ; Psychometrics ; *Quality of Life ; Reproducibility of Results ; Self Concept ; Self Disclosure ; Surveys and Questionnaires/*standards ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The concept of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) involves the respondents' perception of well-being and functioning in physical, emotional, mental, social, and everyday life areas. Research in the area of subjective health has resulted in the development of a multitude of HRQoL instruments that meet satisfying psychometric standards with regard to reliability, validity, and sensitivity of the scales. One frequently used generic measure for children and adolescents is the KINDL-R questionnaire developed by Ravens-Sieberer and Bullinger (Qual Life Res 7:399-407, 1998).<br><br>METHODS: Within the representative sample of the BELLA study, analyses regarding psychometric properties (namely reliability as well as discriminant and construct validity) are performed.<br><br>RESULTS: Psychometric testing of the KINDL-R questionnaire reveals good scale utilisation and scale fit as well as moderate internal consistency. Correlations with the KIDSCREEN-52 subscales are shown. Differences in KINDL-R scores exist between chronically ill and healthy children as well as between SDQ problem scores.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The KINDL-R is a suitable instrument for measuring HRQoL in children and adolescents through self-report. The testing of the instrument in a representative sample of German children and adolescents as well as their parents provides reference values extending the potential of the KINDL-R questionnaire.}, }
@article {pmid19190668, year = {2009}, author = {Stoecker, BJ and Abebe, Y and Hubbs-Tait, L and Kennedy, TS and Gibson, RS and Arbide, I and Teshome, A and Westcott, J and Krebs, NF and Hambidge, KM}, title = {Zinc status and cognitive function of pregnant women in Southern Ethiopia.}, journal = {European journal of clinical nutrition}, volume = {63}, number = {7}, pages = {916-918}, pmid = {19190668}, issn = {1476-5640}, support = {R21 TW006729/TW/FIC NIH HHS/United States ; R21_TW006729/TW/FIC NIH HHS/United States ; M01 RR000069/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; M01 RR00069/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; P30 HD004024/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; *Cognition ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Diet ; Educational Status ; Ethiopia ; Female ; Humans ; Iron Deficiencies ; Maternal Age ; Nutritional Status ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Complications/blood/*psychology ; Regression Analysis ; Rural Population ; Trace Elements/*deficiency ; Zinc/blood/*deficiency ; }, abstract = {The relation between zinc status and cognitive function was examined in a cross-sectional study in the Sidama area of Southern Ethiopia. Pregnant women >24 weeks of gestation from three adjacent rural villages volunteered to participate. Mean (s.d.) plasma zinc of 99 women was 6.97 (1.07) mumol/l (below the cutoff of 7.6 mumol/l indicative of zinc deficiency at this stage of gestation). The Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM) test was administered individually. Scores for the Raven's scale A, which is the simplest scale, ranged from 4 to 10 of a possible 12. Women with plasma zinc <7.6 mumol/l had significantly lower Raven's CPM scale A scores than women with plasma zinc concentrations >7.6 mumol/l. Plasma zinc and maternal age and education predicted 17% of the variation in Raven's CPM scale A scores. We conclude that zinc deficiency is a major factor affecting cognition in these pregnant women.}, }
@article {pmid19190226, year = {2009}, author = {Hamer, GL and Kitron, UD and Goldberg, TL and Brawn, JD and Loss, SR and Ruiz, MO and Hayes, DB and Walker, ED}, title = {Host selection by Culex pipiens mosquitoes and West Nile virus amplification.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {80}, number = {2}, pages = {268-278}, pmid = {19190226}, issn = {1476-1645}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/virology ; Blood ; *Culex/physiology/virology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; Humans ; *Insect Vectors/physiology/virology ; Passeriformes/classification/*virology ; Species Specificity ; West Nile Fever/*transmission/virology ; West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {Recent field studies have suggested that the dynamics of West Nile virus (WNV) transmission are influenced strongly by a few key super spreader bird species that function both as primary blood hosts of the vector mosquitoes (in particular Culex pipiens) and as reservoir-competent virus hosts. It has been hypothesized that human cases result from a shift in mosquito feeding from these key bird species to humans after abundance of the key birds species decreases. To test this paradigm, we performed a mosquito blood meal analysis integrating host-feeding patterns of Cx. pipiens, the principal vector of WNV in the eastern United States north of the latitude 36 degrees N and other mosquito species with robust measures of host availability, to determine host selection in a WNV-endemic area of suburban Chicago, Illinois, during 2005-2007. Results showed that Cx. pipiens fed predominantly (83%) on birds with a high diversity of species used as hosts (25 species). American robins (Turdus migratorius) were marginally overused and several species were underused on the basis of relative abundance measures, including the common grackle (Quiscalus quiscula), house sparrow (Passer domesticus), and European starling (Sturnus vulgaris). Culex pipiens also fed substantially on mammals (19%; 7 species with humans representing 16%). West Nile virus transmission intensified in July of both years at times when American robins were heavily fed upon, and then decreased when robin abundance decreased, after which other birds species were selected as hosts. There was no shift in feeding from birds to mammals coincident with emergence of human cases. Rather, bird feeding predominated when the onset of the human cases occurred. Measures of host abundance and competence and Cx. pipiens feeding preference were combined to estimate the amplification fractions of the different bird species. Predictions were that approximately 66% of WNV-infectious Cx. pipiens became infected from feeding on just a few species of birds, including American robins (35%), blue jays (17%, Cyanocitta cristata), and house finches (15%, Carpodacus mexicanus).}, }
@article {pmid19188958, year = {2009}, author = {Huang, CH and Lai, YH and Cheng, SC and Hsieh, WF}, title = {Modulation instability in nonlinear coupled resonator optical waveguides and photonic crystal waveguides.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {17}, number = {3}, pages = {1299-1307}, doi = {10.1364/oe.17.001299}, pmid = {19188958}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {Modulation instability (MI) in a coupled resonator optical waveguide (CROW) and photonic-crystal waveguide (PCW) with nonlinear Kerr media was studied by using the tight-binding theory. By considering the coupling between the defects, we obtained a discrete nonlinear evolution equation and termed it the extended discrete nonlinear Schrödinger (EDNLS) equation. By solving this equation for CROWs and PCWs, we obtained the MI region and the MI gains, G(p,q), for different wavevectors of the incident plane wave (p) and perturbation (q) analytically. In CROWs, the MI region, in which solitons can be formed, can only occur for pa being located either before or after pi/2, where a is the separation of the cavities. The location of the MI region is determined by the number of the separation rods between defects and the sign of the Kerr coefficient. However, in the PCWs, pa in the MI region can exceed the pi/2. For those wavevectors close to pi/2, the MI profile, G(q), can possess two gain maxima at fixed pa. It is quite different from the results of the nonlinear CROWs and optical fibers. By numerically solving the EDNLS equation using the 4th order Runge-Kutta method to observe exponential growth of small perturbation in the MI region, we found it is consistent with our analytic solutions.}, }
@article {pmid19179348, year = {2009}, author = {Subramanian, SV and Jones, K and Kaddour, A and Krieger, N}, title = {Revisiting Robinson: the perils of individualistic and ecologic fallacy.}, journal = {International journal of epidemiology}, volume = {38}, number = {2}, pages = {342-60; author reply 370-3}, pmid = {19179348}, issn = {1464-3685}, support = {K25 HL081275/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Bias ; *Data Interpretation, Statistical ; Education/history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Educational Status ; Ethnicity/psychology/statistics &amp; numerical data ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Individuality ; Prejudice ; Social Conditions ; United States ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: W S Robinson made a seminal contribution by demonstrating that correlations for the same two variables can be different at the individual and ecologic level. This study reanalyzes and historically situates Robinson's influential study that laid the foundation for the primacy of analyzing data at only the individual level.<br><br>METHODS: We applied a binomial multilevel logistic model to analyse variation in illiteracy as enumerated by the 1930 US. Census (the same data as used by Robinson). The outcome was log odds of being illiterate, while predictors were race/nativity ('native whites', 'foreign-born whites' and 'negroes') at the individual-level, and presence of Jim Crow segregation laws for education at the state-level. We conducted historical research to identify the social and scientific context within which Robinson's study was produced and favourably received.<br><br>RESULTS: Empirically, the substantial state variations in illiteracy could not be accounted by the states' race/nativity composition. Different approaches to modelling state-effects yielded considerably attenuated associations at the individual-level between illiteracy and race/nativity. Furthermore, state variation in illiteracy was different across the race/nativity groups, with state variation being largest for whites and least for foreign-born whites. Strong effects of Jim Crow education laws on illiteracy were observed with the effect being strongest for blacks. Historically, Robinson's study was consonant with the post-World War II ascendancy of methodological individualism.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Applying a historically informed multilevel perspective to Robinson's profoundly influential study, we demonstrate that meaningful analysis of individual-level relationships requires attention to substantial heterogeneity in state characteristics. The implication is that perils are posed by not only ecological fallacy but also individualistic fallacy. Multilevel thinking, grounded in historical and spatiotemporal context, is thus a necessity, not an option.}, }
@article {pmid19169379, year = {2008}, author = {Eisner, T and Aneshansley, D}, title = {"Anting" in Blue Jays: evidence in support of a food-preparatory function.}, journal = {Chemoecology}, volume = {18}, number = {4}, pages = {197-203}, pmid = {19169379}, issn = {0937-7409}, support = {R01 AI002908/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI002908-49/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Anting, the plumage-dipping behavior to which ants (mostly formicines) are commonly subjected by birds (mostly passerines), is shown in tests with hand-raised Blue Jays (Cyanocitta cristata) and the ant Formica exsectoides to be instinctive: the birds displayed typical renditions of the behavior on the first occasion that they encountered ants. Evidence is presented supportive of the view that anting is a strategy by which birds render ants fit for ingestion. Formicine ants are ordinarily protected by their formic acid-containing spray. Being wiped into the bird's plumage causes them to discharge that spray, without harm to the bird, to the point of almost total emptying of the glandular sac in which the secretion is stored. The ants are therefore essentially secretion-free by the time they are swallowed. Further evidence indicates that it is the ant's possession of the acid sac that triggers the anting behavior in the bird. If F. exsectoides are surgically deprived of their acid sac, they are eaten by the birds without first being subjected to anting. Data are also presented indicating that the ant's crop, which is especially capacious in formicines (its contents may amount to over 30% of the formicine's mass), and which appears to survive the anting procedure intact, constitutes, at least when laden, a valuable component of the trophic package that the bird accesses by anting.}, }
@article {pmid19163986, year = {2008}, author = {Lum, MJ and Rosen, J and Lendvay, TS and Wright, AS and Sinanan, MN and Hannaford, B}, title = {TeleRobotic fundamentals of laparoscopic surgery (FLS): effects of time delay--pilot study.}, journal = {Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Annual International Conference}, volume = {2008}, number = {}, pages = {5597-5600}, doi = {10.1109/IEMBS.2008.4650483}, pmid = {19163986}, issn = {2375-7477}, mesh = {Humans ; Laparoscopy/*methods ; Pilot Projects ; Robotics/*methods ; Surgery, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; *Task Performance and Analysis ; Telemedicine/*methods ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Within the area of telerobotic surgery no standardized means of surgically relevant performance evaluation has been established. The Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) program provides a set of standardized tasks that are considered the 'gold standard' in surgical skill assessment. We present a methodology for using one of the SAGES FLS tasks for surgical robotic performance evaluation. The TeleRobotic FLS methodology is extendable to two other FLS tasks. Time delay in teleoperation in general and telesurgery in particular is one of the fundamental effects that limits performance in telerobotic surgery. In this pilot study the effect of time delay on the Block Transfer task performance was investigated. The RAVEN Surgical Robot was used in a master/slave configuration in which time delays of 0, 250, 500, and 1000 ms were introduced by a network emulator between the master (Surgeon Site) and the slave (Patient Site). The study included three subjects, each of whom was presented with three of the four conditions. The results show that one subject had a lower error rate with increasing time delay, whereas the other subjects had a higher error rate with increased delay. The subject with the longest average completion time suffered the least performance decrease under time delay.}, }
@article {pmid19158950, year = {2009}, author = {Nagyvary, J and Guillemette, RN and Spiegelman, CH}, title = {Mineral preservatives in the wood of Stradivari and Guarneri.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {4}, number = {1}, pages = {e4245}, pmid = {19158950}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Acoustics ; History, 18th Century ; Italy ; Materials Testing ; Minerals ; Models, Statistical ; Multivariate Analysis ; Music/history ; Scattering, Radiation ; Spectrophotometry/methods ; *Wood ; X-Rays ; }, abstract = {Following the futile efforts of generations to reach the high standard of excellence achieved by the luthiers in Cremona, Italy, by variations of design and plate tuning, current interest is being focused on differences in material properties. The long-standing question whether the wood of Stradivari and Guarneri were treated with wood preservative materials could be answered only by the examination of wood specimens from the precious antique instruments. In a recent communication (Nature, 2006), we reported about the degradation of the wood polymers in instruments of Stradivari and Guarneri, which could be explained only by chemical manipulations, possibly by preservatives. The aim of the current work was to identify the minerals from the small samples of the maple wood which were available to us from the antique instruments. The ashes of wood from one violin and one cello by Stradivari, two violins by Guarneri, one viola by H. Jay, one violin by Gand-Bernardel were analyzed and compared with a variety of commercial tone woods. The methods of analysis were the following: back-scattered electron imaging, X-ray fluorescence maps for individual elements, wave-length dispersive spectroscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and quantitative microprobe analysis. All four Cremonese instruments showed the unmistakable signs of chemical treatments in the form of chemicals which are not present in natural woods, such as BaSO4, CaF2, borate, and ZrSiO4. In addition to these, there were also changes in the common wood minerals. Statistical evaluation of 12 minerals by discriminant analysis revealed: a. a difference among all four Cremona instruments, b. the difference of the Cremonese instruments from the French and English antiques, and c. only the Cremonese instruments differed from all commercial woods. These findings may provide the answer why all attempts to recreate the Stradivarius from natural wood have failed. There are many obvious implications with regard to how the green tone wood should be treated, which chould lead to changes in the practice of violin-making. This research should inspire others to analyze more antique violins for their chemical contents.}, }
@article {pmid19147019, year = {2009}, author = {Salter, BJ and Fuss, M and Sarkar, V and Wang, B and Rassiah-Szegedi, P and Papanikolaou, N and Hollingshaus, S and Shrieve, DC}, title = {Optimization of isocenter location for intensity modulated stereotactic treatment of small intracranial targets.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {73}, number = {2}, pages = {546-555}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijrobp.2008.09.011}, pmid = {19147019}, issn = {1879-355X}, mesh = {Brain Neoplasms/*radiotherapy/surgery ; Cranial Irradiation/methods ; Humans ; Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations/*radiotherapy/surgery ; Neuroma, Acoustic/*radiotherapy/surgery ; Radiosurgery/instrumentation/methods/standards ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated/instrumentation/methods/*standards ; Reference Values ; Retrospective Studies ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To quantify the impact of isocenter location on treatment plan quality for intensity-modulated stereotactic treatment of small intracranial lesions.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: For 18 patients previously treated by stereotactic-intensity modulated radiosurgery (IMRS) or intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), a retrospective virtual planning study was conducted wherein the impact of isocenter location on plan quality was measured. Treatment indications studied included six arteriovenous malformations, six acoustic neuromas, and six intracranial metastases, ranging in volume from 0.71 to 3.21 cm(3) (mean = 2.26 cm(3)), 1.08 to 2.84 cm(3) (mean = 1.73 cm(3)), and 0.19 to 2.30 cm(3) (mean = 0.79 cm(3)), respectively. Variation of isocenter location causes the geometric grid of pencil beams into which the target is segmented for intensity-modulated treatment to be altered. The impact of this pencil-beam-grid redefinition on achievable conformity index was quantified for three collimators (Varian Millennium 120; BrainLab MM3; Nomos binary Mimic) and three treatment planning systems (TPS; Varian Eclipse v6.5; BrainLab BrainScan v5.31; Best-Nomos Corvus v6.2), resulting in the evaluation of 3,446 treatment plans.<br><br>RESULTS: For all patients, collimator, and TPS combinations studied, a significant variation in plan quality was observed as a function of isocenter and pencil-beam-grid relocation. Optimization of isocenter location resulted in treatment plan conformity variations as large as 109% (min = 15%, mean = 51%, max = 109%).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Optimization of isocenter location for IMRT/IMRS treatment of small intracranial lesions in which pencil-beam dimensions are comparable to target dimensions, can result in significant improvements in treatment plan quality.}, }
@article {pmid19146605, year = {2008}, author = {Knott, A and Reuschlein, K and Mielke, H and Wensorra, U and Mummert, C and Koop, U and Kausch, M and Kolbe, L and Peters, N and Stäb, F and Wenck, H and Gallinat, S}, title = {Natural Arctium lappa fruit extract improves the clinical signs of aging skin.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {7}, number = {4}, pages = {281-289}, doi = {10.1111/j.1473-2165.2008.00407.x}, pmid = {19146605}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Arctium/*chemistry ; Cells, Cultured/drug effects ; Collagen/biosynthesis ; Cytokines/drug effects ; *Face ; Fibroblasts/drug effects ; Fruit/*chemistry ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid/biosynthesis ; In Vitro Techniques ; Interleukin-6/biosynthesis ; Monocytes/drug effects ; Phytotherapy ; Plant Extracts/pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Procollagen/biosynthesis ; Skin/*drug effects/metabolism ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Subclinical, chronic tissue inflammation involving the generation of cytokines (e.g., interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha) might contribute to the cutaneous aging process.<br><br>AIMS: This study aims to screen for an active ingredient with anti-inflammatory (i.e., reduction of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha) and matrix-stimulating efficacy which improves the clinical signs of skin aging in vivo.<br><br>PATIENTS/METHODS: In vitro studies with pure Arctiin were performed investigating the inhibition of cytokine induction and stimulation of collagen neo-synthesis. In vivo home-in-use studies using an Arctium lappa fruit extract-containing formulation were carried out to determine procollagen and hyaluronan synthesis, hyaluronan synthase-2 gene expression, and reduction of wrinkle volume after treatment.<br><br>RESULTS: In vitro studies on human dermal fibroblasts and monocyte-derived dendritic cells supplemented with pure Arctiin showed relative to untreated control cells a stimulation of collagen synthesis and a decrease in interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha concentration, respectively. In addition, topical in vivo application of an A. lappa fruit extract-containing formulation for 12 weeks significantly stimulated procollagen synthesis and increased hyaluronan synthase-2 expression as well as hyaluronan levels compared to vehicle-treated control areas. Similarly, after a 4-week treatment with an A. lappa fruit extract-containing formulation, wrinkle volume in the crow's feet area was significantly reduced as compared to treatment with the vehicle.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our data show that topical treatment with a natural A. lappa fruit extract significantly improves the metabolism of the dermal extracellular matrix and leads to a visible wrinkle reduction in vivo. In conclusion, A. lappa fruit extract represents a targeted means to regenerate dermal structures and, thus, offers an effective treatment option for mature skin.}, }
@article {pmid19138441, year = {2009}, author = {Ivanovic, DM and Rodríguez, Mdel P and Pérez, HT and Alvear, JA and Almagià, AF and Toro, TD and Urrutia, MS and Cruz, AL and Ivanovic, RM}, title = {Impact of nutritional status at the onset of elementary school on academic aptitude test achievement at the end of high school in a multicausal approach.}, journal = {The British journal of nutrition}, volume = {102}, number = {1}, pages = {142-154}, doi = {10.1017/S0007114508184665}, pmid = {19138441}, issn = {1475-2662}, mesh = {Achievement ; Aptitude Tests ; Child ; Child Development ; *Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; Child, Preschool ; Chile ; Educational Measurement/methods ; *Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Nutrition Assessment ; *Nutritional Status ; Prospective Studies ; Social Class ; *Students ; Time ; }, abstract = {Like in many other countries, few investigations have been carried out in Chile to measure the long-term effects of nutritional status at an early age on scholastic achievement in a multicausal approach. The objectives of the present study were to describe the impact of nutritional, intellectual, family, educational and socio-economic variables at the onset of elementary school in 1987 that may affect achievement on the academic aptitude test (AAT) taken in 1998 at the end of high school, and to quantify the impact of these independent variables on the AAT. The present study comprises two cross-sectional stages: in 1987, a representative sample of 813 elementary school first-grader Chilean children from the Metropolitan Region was randomly chosen; in 1998, 12 years later, 632 school-age children were located and only 351 of them graduated from high school and, from these, 260 students took the AAT. In 1987 nutritional status was assessed through anthropometric parameters, intellectual ability by the Raven's Progressive Matrices Test, scholastic achievement through Spanish language and mathematics tests, and socio-economic status using Graffar's modified scale; family variables were also recorded. Maternal schooling, scholastic achievement, intellectual ability and head circumference-for-age z-score (anthropometric indicator of both nutritional background and brain development) all in 1987 were the independent variables with the greatest explanatory power for AAT variance in 1998 (r2 0.402). These results provide a foundation to identify the risk factors at an early age that affect AAT scores and should be useful to improve nutritional and educational policies.}, }
@article {pmid19135159, year = {2009}, author = {Bonaccorso, E}, title = {Historical biogeography and speciation in the neotropical highlands: molecular phylogenetics of the jay genus Cyanolyca.}, journal = {Molecular phylogenetics and evolution}, volume = {50}, number = {3}, pages = {618-632}, doi = {10.1016/j.ympev.2008.12.012}, pmid = {19135159}, issn = {1095-9513}, mesh = {Animals ; Bayes Theorem ; Cell Nucleus/genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; *Evolution, Molecular ; *Genetic Speciation ; Geography ; Likelihood Functions ; Passeriformes/classification/*genetics ; *Phylogeny ; Sequence Alignment ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Phylogenetic relationships were studied in the genus Cyanolyca, an assemblage of jays distributed from Mexico south to Bolivia. Given its fragmented distribution along the humid forests of the Neotropics, the genus Cyanolyca is a model group for exploring hypotheses on biogeography and speciation. Phylogenetic analyses were based on two mitochondrial and three nuclear loci; taxon sampling includes all species in the genus and most subspecies. Maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian analyses produced trees that were congruent and highly robust at both terminal and deep nodes of the phylogeny. Cyanolyca comprises two major clades: one contains the Mesoamerican "dwarf" jays, and the other consists of two main groups--C. cucullata+C. pulchra and the "core" South American species. Prior hypotheses of relationships were explored statistically using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian approaches. Dispersal-Vicariance analysis revealed the importance of the Northern Andes as a major center for biological diversification, and the effects of dispersal across the Panamanian Land Bridge in the composition of South American and Mesoamerican avifaunas. Phylogenetic patterns are highly congruent with an allopatric mode of speciation. Implications of these results are discussed in the context of the biogeography of Neotropical montane forests.}, }
@article {pmid19130199, year = {2009}, author = {Iyer, AV and Boudreaux, MJ and Wakamatsu, N and Roy, AF and Baghian, A and Chouljenko, VN and Kousoulas, KG}, title = {Complete genome analysis and virulence characteristics of the Louisiana West Nile virus strain LSU-AR01.}, journal = {Virus genes}, volume = {38}, number = {2}, pages = {204-214}, pmid = {19130199}, issn = {0920-8569}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/virology ; Birds ; Cluster Analysis ; Female ; *Genome, Viral ; Louisiana ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred BALB C ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Mutation, Missense ; Phylogeny ; Point Mutation ; RNA, Viral/*genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Virulence ; West Nile Fever/pathology/*virology ; West Nile virus/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) is a member of the Flaviriridae family, which can cause significant morbidity and mortality in birds, horses, and humans. The WNV-LSU-AR01 strain was isolated from a dead blue jay in Louisiana in 2001. Phylogenetic analysis using 75 full WNV genomes revealed that the LSU-AR01 strain belongs to a distinct subclade among the North American strains. The LSU-AR01 strain differed from the NY-99 prototypic strain by 26 nucleotides causing six amino acid changes. An asparagine-to-lysine change was located immediately proximal to a known CD8(+)T cell epitope in NS4B, while a glutamine-to-lysine change was located within a predicted CD8(+)T cell epitope in NS5. The LSU-AR01 strain caused pronounced neuronal necrosis, perivascular cuffing and gliosis in comparison to the NY-99-infected mice. These results suggest that the previously identified Connecticut strains may contain highly neurovirulent strains such as the LSU-AR01 that have spread in North America.}, }
@article {pmid19129109, year = {2009}, author = {Novas, FE and Pol, D and Canale, JI and Porfiri, JD and Calvo, JO}, title = {A bizarre Cretaceous theropod dinosaur from Patagonia and the evolution of Gondwanan dromaeosaurids.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {276}, number = {1659}, pages = {1101-1107}, pmid = {19129109}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Demography ; Dinosaurs/*anatomy &amp; histology/*classification/genetics ; Fossils ; }, abstract = {Fossils of a predatory dinosaur provide novel information about the evolution of unenlagiines, a poorly known group of dromaeosaurid theropods from Gondwana. The new dinosaur is the largest dromaeosaurid yet discovered in the Southern Hemisphere and depicts bizarre cranial and postcranial features. Its long and low snout bears numerous, small-sized conical teeth, a condition resembling spinosaurid theropods. Its short forearms depart from the characteristically long-armed condition of all dromaeosaurids and their close avian relatives. The new discovery amplifies the range of morphological disparity among unenlagiines, demonstrating that by the end of the Cretaceous this clade included large, short-armed forms alongside crow-sized, long-armed, possibly flying representatives. The new dinosaur is the youngest record of dromaeosaurids from Gondwana and represents a previously unrecognized lineage of large predators in Late Cretaceous dinosaur faunas mainly dominated by abelisaurid theropods.}, }
@article {pmid19128499, year = {2009}, author = {Kulemeyer, C and Asbahr, K and Gunz, P and Frahnert, S and Bairlein, F}, title = {Functional morphology and integration of corvid skulls - a 3D geometric morphometric approach.}, journal = {Frontiers in zoology}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {2}, pmid = {19128499}, issn = {1742-9994}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Sympatric corvid species have evolved differences in nesting, habitat choice, diet and foraging. Differences in the frequency with which corvid species use their repertoire of feeding techniques is expected to covary with bill-shape and with the frontal binocular field. Species that frequently probe are expected to have a relatively longer bill and more sidewise oriented orbits in contrast to species that frequently peck. We tested this prediction by analyzing computed tomography scans of skulls of six corvid species by means of three-dimensional geometric morphometrics. We (1) explored patterns of major variation using principal component analysis, (2) compared within and between species relationships of size and shape and (3) quantitatively compared patterns of morphological integration between bill and cranium by means of partial least squares (singular warp) analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: Major shape variation occurs at the bill, in the orientation of orbits, in the position of the foramen magnum and in the angle between bill and cranium. The first principal component correlated positively with centroid-size, but within-species allometric relationships differed markedly. Major covariation between the bill and cranium lies in the difference in orbit orientation relative to bill-length and in the angle between bill and cranium.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Corvid species show pronounced differences in skull shape, which covary with foraging mode. Increasing bill-length, bill-curvature and sidewise orientation of the eyes is associated with an increase in the observed frequency in probing (vice versa in pecking). Hence, the frequency of probing, bill-length, bill-curvature and sidewise orientation of the eyes is progressively increased from jackdaw, to Eurasian jay, to black-billed magpie, to hooded crow, to rook and to common raven (when feeding on carcasses is considered as probing). Our results on the morphological integration suggest that most of the covariation between bill and cranium is due to differences in the topography of the binocular fields and the projection of the bill-tip therein, indicating the importance of visual fields to the foraging ecology of corvids.}, }
@article {pmid19125367, year = {2009}, author = {Francks, C}, title = {Understanding the genetics of behavioural and psychiatric traits will only be achieved through a realistic assessment of their complexity.}, journal = {Laterality}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {11-16}, doi = {10.1080/13576500802536439}, pmid = {19125367}, issn = {1464-0678}, mesh = {Cadherins/genetics ; Chromosome Mapping ; Chromosomes, Human, Pair 2/genetics ; Dominance, Cerebral/*genetics ; Functional Laterality/*genetics ; *Genetics, Behavioral ; Genomic Imprinting/genetics ; Humans ; Membrane Proteins/*genetics ; Nerve Tissue Proteins/*genetics ; Protocadherins ; Schizophrenia/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Francks et al. (2007) performed a recent study in which the first putative genetic effect on human handedness was identified (the imprinted locus LRRTM1 on human chromosome 2). In this issue of Laterality, Tim Crow and colleagues present a critique of that study. The present paper presents a personal response to that critique which argues that Francks et al. (2007) published a substantial body of evidence implicating LRRTM1 in handedness and schizophrenia. Progress will now be achieved by others trying to validate, refute, or extend those findings, rather than by further armchair discussion.}, }
@article {pmid19121221, year = {2009}, author = {Jaari, S and Li, MH and Merilä, J}, title = {A first-generation microsatellite-based genetic linkage map of the Siberian jay (Perisoreus infaustus): insights into avian genome evolution.}, journal = {BMC genomics}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {1}, pmid = {19121221}, issn = {1471-2164}, mesh = {Animals ; Chickens/genetics ; Chromosome Mapping ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Female ; *Genetic Linkage ; Genetic Markers ; Genetics, Population ; Genome ; Genomics ; Genotype ; Male ; *Microsatellite Repeats ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Pedigree ; Recombination, Genetic ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Sex Factors ; Synteny ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Genomic resources for the majority of free-living vertebrates of ecological and evolutionary importance are scarce. Therefore, linkage maps with high-density genome coverage are needed for progress in genomics of wild species. The Siberian jay (Perisoreus infaustus; Corvidae) is a passerine bird which has been subject to lots of research in the areas of ecology and evolutionary biology. Knowledge of its genome structure and organization is required to advance our understanding of the genetic basis of ecologically important traits in this species, as well as to provide insights into avian genome evolution.<br><br>RESULTS: We describe the first genetic linkage map of Siberian jay constructed using 117 microsatellites and a mapping pedigree of 349 animals representing five families from a natural population breeding in western Finland from the years 1975 to 2006. Markers were resolved into nine autosomal and a Z-chromosome-specific linkage group, 10 markers remaining unlinked. The best-position map with the most likely positions of all significantly linked loci had a total sex-average size of 862.8 cM, with an average interval distance of 9.69 cM. The female map covered 988.4 cM, whereas the male map covered only 774 cM. The Z-chromosome linkage group comprised six markers, three pseudoautosomal and three sex-specific loci, and spanned 10.6 cM in females and 48.9 cM in males. Eighty-one of the mapped loci could be ordered on a framework map with odds of >1000:1 covering a total size of 809.6 cM in females and 694.2 cM in males. Significant sex specific distortions towards reduced male recombination rates were revealed in the entire best-position map as well as within two autosomal linkage groups. Comparative mapping between Siberian jay and chicken anchored 22 homologous loci on 6 different linkage groups corresponding to chicken chromosomes Gga1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and Z. Quite a few cases of intra-chromosomal rearrangements within the autosomes and three cases of inter-chromosomal rearrangement between the Siberian jay autosomal linkage groups (LG1, LG2 and LG3) and the chicken sex chromosome GgaZ were observed, suggesting a conserved synteny, but changes in marker order, within autosomes during about 100 million years of avian evolution.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The constructed linkage map represents a valuable resource for intraspecific genomics of Siberian jay, as well as for avian comparative genomic studies. Apart from providing novel insights into sex-specific recombination rates and patterns, the described maps - from a previously genomically uncharacterized superfamily (Corvidae) of passerine birds - provide new insights into avian genome evolution. In combination with high-resolution data on quantitative trait variability from the study population, they also provide a foundation for QTL-mapping studies.}, }
@article {pmid19120413, year = {2009}, author = {Crone, EA and Wendelken, C and van Leijenhorst, L and Honomichl, RD and Christoff, K and Bunge, SA}, title = {Neurocognitive development of relational reasoning.}, journal = {Developmental science}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {55-66}, pmid = {19120413}, issn = {1467-7687}, support = {P01 NS040813/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; P01 NS040813-06/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; R01NS57146-01/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 NS057146-01/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 NS057146-02/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 NS057146/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Behavior/*physiology ; Brain/*growth &amp; development/physiology ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Relational reasoning is an essential component of fluid intelligence, and is known to have a protracted developmental trajectory. To date, little is known about the neural changes that underlie improvements in reasoning ability over development. In this event-related functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study, children aged 8-12 and adults aged 18-25 performed a relational reasoning task adapted from Raven's Progressive Matrices. The task included three levels of relational reasoning demands: REL-0, REL-1, and REL-2. Children exhibited disproportionately lower accuracy than adults on trials that required integration of two relations (REL-2). Like adults, children engaged lateral prefrontal cortex (PFC) and parietal cortex during task performance; however, they exhibited different time courses and activation profiles, providing insight into their approach to the problems. As in prior studies, adults exhibited increased rostrolateral PFC (RLPFC) activation when relational integration was required (REL-2 > REL-1, REL-0). Children also engaged RLPFC most strongly for REL-2 problems at early stages of processing, but this differential activation relative to REL-1 trials was not sustained throughout the trial. These results suggest that the children recruited RLPFC while processing relations, but failed to use it to integrate across two relations. Relational integration is critical for solving a variety of problems, and for appreciating analogies; the current findings suggest that developmental improvements in this function rely on changes in the profile of engagement of RLPFC, as well as dorsolateral PFC and parietal cortex.}, }
@article {pmid19108820, year = {2009}, author = {Nation, K and Cocksey, J}, title = {Beginning readers activate semantics from sub-word orthography.}, journal = {Cognition}, volume = {110}, number = {2}, pages = {273-278}, doi = {10.1016/j.cognition.2008.11.004}, pmid = {19108820}, issn = {1873-7838}, mesh = {Child ; Female ; Humans ; Learning ; Male ; Psycholinguistics ; *Reading ; *Semantics ; }, abstract = {Two experiments assessed whether 7-year-old children activate semantic information from sub-word orthography. Children made category decisions to visually-presented words, some of which contained an embedded word (e.g., hip in ship). In Experiment 1 children were slower and less accurate to classify words if they contained an embedded word related in meaning to the category (e.g., slower to reject ship as a 'body part' than an 'animal'), especially when the embedded word was higher in frequency than the carrier word. This demonstrates that young children activate semantic information from sub-word orthographic representations, and that they do so from the relatively early stages of learning to read. Experiment 2 replicated this effect. Furthermore, we observed semantic interference regardless of whether the embedded word shared its pronunciation with the carrier (e.g., the hip in ship) or not (e.g., the crow in crown), and regardless of its position within the carrier, suggesting that interference was not dependent on phonological mediation. These findings show that by 7-years-of age, children have begun to establish an orthographic system that is capable of activating sub-word orthographic patterns, strong enough to connect with meaning, when reading words silently.}, }
@article {pmid19091988, year = {2008}, author = {Nakashima, AS and Dyck, RH}, title = {Enhanced plasticity in zincergic, cortical circuits after exposure to enriched environments.}, journal = {The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience}, volume = {28}, number = {51}, pages = {13995-13999}, pmid = {19091988}, issn = {1529-2401}, mesh = {Animals ; *Environment Design ; Housing, Animal ; Male ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Neuronal Plasticity/*physiology ; Presynaptic Terminals/metabolism ; Sensory Deprivation/*physiology ; Somatosensory Cortex/metabolism/*physiology ; Synaptic Vesicles/metabolism ; Time Factors ; Vibrissae/*physiology ; Zinc/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Despite the plethora of reports that demonstrate plasticity in the mammalian cerebral cortex, the characterization of the cellular mechanisms that mediate it is sparse. Here, we show that the magnitude of the experience-dependent regulation of vesicular zinc is significantly increased through enriched-environment housing. Mice were reared either in a deprived environment and subsequently housed in deprived, minimally enriched, or enriched conditions after the removal of the c-row of vibrissae or reared in an enriched environment before and after vibrissae removal. Levels of vesicular zinc were assessed in deprived and nondeprived barrels 6 h to 14 d after vibrissae removal. We found that housing in enriched environmental conditions resulted in a greater change in vesicular zinc levels than did other housing conditions; however, this effect was dependent on both the magnitude and duration of enrichment. Our data indicate that enriched-environment housing has profound effects on the regulation of vesicular zinc that occurs concurrently with experience-dependent plasticity, suggesting a role for zinc in the multitude of cortical modifications associated with enriched environments.}, }
@article {pmid19084999, year = {2010}, author = {Arnell, KM and Stokes, KA and MacLean, MH and Gicante, C}, title = {Executive control processes of working memory predict attentional blink magnitude over and above storage capacity.}, journal = {Psychological research}, volume = {74}, number = {1}, pages = {1-11}, pmid = {19084999}, issn = {1430-2772}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Attentional Blink ; *Executive Function ; Humans ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Psychological Tests ; Reaction Time ; Reading ; Serial Learning ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {When two masked, to-be-attended targets are presented within approximately half a second of each other, performance on the second target (T2) suffers, relative to when the targets are presented further apart in time or when the first target (T1) can be ignored. This phenomenon is known as the attentional blink (AB). Colzato et al. (Psychon Bull Rev 14:1051-1057, 2007) used an individual differences approach to examine whether individual AB magnitude was predicted by individual differences in working memory (WM), using the operation span paradigm (OSPAN). They found that OSPAN score was inversely related to AB magnitude even when a fluid intelligence measure (Raven's SPM) was partialled out. However, it is not clear from this study whether it was the executive control aspect of working memory, the capacity aspect of short-term memory, (or both), that related to AB magnitude. In the present study we used a variety of WM measures that required varying degrees of executive control. OSPAN was negatively related to AB magnitude with Raven's SPM, reading comprehension, reading rate, and digit forward and backward partialled out. Backward and forward digit span did not predict AB magnitude. These results support the conclusion that a "working" executive component of WM predicts temporal limitations of selective attention beyond static STM capacity and general cognitive ability.}, }
@article {pmid19083589, year = {2008}, author = {Sasaki, GH}, title = {Comparison of results of wire subcision performed alone, with fills, and/or with adjacent surgical procedures.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {28}, number = {6}, pages = {619-626}, doi = {10.1016/j.asj.2008.10.005}, pmid = {19083589}, issn = {1527-330X}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cicatrix/*surgery ; Face/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Postoperative Complications/etiology ; Plastic Surgery Procedures/*methods ; *Skin Aging ; *Surgical Instruments ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Because of the fixed attachments (or muscle-superficial musculoaponeurotic system [SMAS] insertions) to the undersurface of wrinkles, folds, and retracted scars, the use of fills alone has resulted in unpredictable and unsatisfactory improvements.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate that use of a wire dissector to completely release these attachments, accompanied by an immediate fill and/or an adjacent aesthetic surgical procedure, may optimize final results, improving deep wrinkles, folds, and scars.<br><br>METHODS: The subcision wire was positioned under various wrinkles, folds, and scars in a triangulated outline and then zigzagged to uniformly release any subdermal attachments. Patients were divided into 4 categories based on the treatment received: group 1, wire subcision only; group 2, wire subcision plus immediate fill with a strip of autogenous filler or xenograft material; group 3, wire subcision without fill but with an adjacent aesthetic surgical procedure; and group 4, wire subcision, fill, and an adjacent surgical procedure. Results were rated with a photographic wrinkle/fold assessment scale (mean +/- standard deviation) by 2 blinded evaluators after at least 6 months. Assessment was based on a quartile grading scale that indicated improvement (0= <25% improvement; 1=25-50% improvement; 2=51-75% improvement; and 3= >75% improvement).<br><br>RESULTS: Eighty-five patients experienced 338 wire subcisions at 8 facial, 1 posterior neck, and 4 thigh (cellulite) sites. The longest follow-up was 1.5 years (mean, 6.3 mos). The cumulative quartile grading scale was recorded as follows: group 1 (1+/-1.5 SD); group 2 (3.1+/-0.1 SD); group 3 (2.5 +/- 0.2 SD); and group 4 (3.6+/-0.2 SD). When fills were employed as spacers under the release tracts in group 2 and 4 sites, strips of SMAS, dermis, and microfat droplets were the favored fills in the areas of nasolabial and marionette folds because of the capacity of the graft's volume and tissue acceptance. For shallower depressions, such as the glabellar frown lines and crow's feet, strips of deep temporal fascia or muscle were more effective. Complications after wire subcision with or without fill were few and transient.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The use of wire subcision for resistant wrinkles, folds, or scars can result in a satisfactory outcome with minimal complications when used as a solitary procedure. Results may be further optimized with the immediate addition of fill into the released tract. An adjacent aesthetic surgical procedure that impacts at the subcised site may provide additional benefit to the site, but not as much as observed with the usage of an immediate fill. Autogenous fills that are substantitive provide longer lasting effects because of volume and tissue acceptance.}, }
@article {pmid19083571, year = {2008}, author = {Har-Shai, Y and Gil, T and Metanes, I and Scheflan, M}, title = {Brow lift for the correction of visual field impairment.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {28}, number = {5}, pages = {512-517}, doi = {10.1016/j.asj.2008.07.009}, pmid = {19083571}, issn = {1527-330X}, mesh = {Aged ; *Eyebrows/anatomy &amp; histology ; Facial Expression ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; *Visual Fields ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Eyebrow ptosis and hooding gives the eye a sad, heavy look that often disturbs the visual field.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: A direct extended scalpel-shaped brow lift is proposed to correct this functional and aesthetic disfigurement. This manuscript reviews our experience with the presented technique and evaluates the clinical results in the light of ongoing concerns regarding the appearance of the postoperative scar. In addition, the indications and patient selection criteria are elaborated.<br><br>METHODS: An incision was made along the superior border of the brow, extending laterally and downward, often within a "crow's feet" crease. The upper border of the incision joined the 2 extremities of the skin outline of the lower incision in a gentle convex curve. The general outline of the incision resembled the shape of a No. 20 scalpel blade, in which the maximal width is located laterally at the temple "crow's feet" area.<br><br>RESULTS: Fourteen patients, including 8 males (48-74 yrs of age) and 6 females (67-71 yrs of age) underwent this procedure. The surgical scar was hardly noticeable after 6 to 9 months, and often fell within a preexisting crow's feet crease. Elimination of some of the crow's feet occurred in all the patients. Subjective and objective functional relief with respect to the vision field and the heavy-feeling brow and satisfaction with the aesthetic result were reported by all patients.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The most appropriate candidates for the direct extended scalpel-shaped brow lift are patients older than 50 years of age, with eyebrow ptosis accompanied with lateral hooding, well developed crow's feet, and forehead skin laxity; long, dense eyebrows, and low transverse forehead wrinkles aid in concealment of the scar.}, }
@article {pmid19081174, year = {2009}, author = {Novara, G and Ficarra, V}, title = {Re: Francesco Montorsi, Gerald Brock, Jay Lee, et al. Effect of nightly versus on-demand vardenafil on recovery of erectile function in men following bilateral nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy. Eur Urol 2008;54:924-31.}, journal = {European urology}, volume = {55}, number = {5}, pages = {e95-6; author reply e97-8}, doi = {10.1016/j.eururo.2008.11.055}, pmid = {19081174}, issn = {1873-7560}, mesh = {Administration, Oral ; Aged ; Circadian Rhythm ; Cross-Over Studies ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Double-Blind Method ; Drug Administration Schedule ; Erectile Dysfunction/*drug therapy/etiology ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Imidazoles/*therapeutic use ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Patient Satisfaction ; Piperazines/*therapeutic use ; Prostate/innervation ; Prostatectomy/*adverse effects/methods ; Risk Assessment ; Sulfones/therapeutic use ; Treatment Outcome ; Triazines/therapeutic use ; Vardenafil Dihydrochloride ; Vasodilator Agents/therapeutic use ; }, }
@article {pmid19076276, year = {2009}, author = {Haas, F and Pointer, MA and Saino, N and Brodin, A and Mundy, NI and Hansson, B}, title = {An analysis of population genetic differentiation and genotype-phenotype association across the hybrid zone of carrion and hooded crows using microsatellites and MC1R.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {18}, number = {2}, pages = {294-305}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2008.04017.x}, pmid = {19076276}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*genetics ; Europe ; Genetic Variation ; *Genetics, Population ; Genotype ; *Hybridization, Genetic ; *Microsatellite Repeats ; Phenotype ; Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 1/*genetics ; }, abstract = {The all black carrion crow (Corvus corone corone) and the grey and black hooded crow (Corvus corone cornix) meet in a narrow hybrid zone across Europe. To evaluate the degree of genetic differentiation over the hybrid zone, we genotyped crows from the centre and edges of the zone, and from allopatric populations in northern (Scotland-Denmark-Sweden) and southern Europe (western-central northern Italy), at 18 microsatellites and at a plumage candidate gene, the MC1R gene. Allopatric and edge populations were significantly differentiated on microsatellites, and populations were isolated by distance over the hybrid zone in Italy. Single-locus analyses showed that one locus, CmeH9, differentiated populations on different sides of the zone at the same time as showing only weak separation of populations on the same side of the zone. Within the hybrid zone there was no differentiation of phenotypes at CmeH9 or at the set of microsatellites, no excess of heterozygotes among hybrids and low levels of linkage disequilibrium between markers. We did not detect any association between phenotypes and nucleotide variation at MC1R, and the two most common haplotypes occurred in very similar frequencies in carrion and hooded crows. That we found a similar degree of genetic differentiation between allopatric and edge populations irrespectively of their location in relation to the hybrid zone, no differentiation between phenotypes within the hybrid zone, and neither heterozygote excess nor consistent linkage disequilibrium in the hybrid zone, is striking considering that carrion and hooded crows are phenotypically distinct and sometimes recognised as separate species.}, }
@article {pmid19054541, year = {2009}, author = {Kunisue, T and Tanabe, S}, title = {Hydroxylated polychlorinated biphenyls (OH-PCBs) in the blood of mammals and birds from Japan: lower chlorinated OH-PCBs and profiles.}, journal = {Chemosphere}, volume = {74}, number = {7}, pages = {950-961}, doi = {10.1016/j.chemosphere.2008.10.038}, pmid = {19054541}, issn = {1879-1298}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Birds ; Cats ; Dogs ; Environmental Pollutants/*blood ; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry ; Humans ; Hydroxylation ; Japan ; Mammals ; Polychlorinated Biphenyls/*blood/chemistry ; Raccoon Dogs ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {An analytical method was developed to measure tri- to octa-chlorinated OH-PCBs and pentachlorophenol (PCP) in the whole blood. Further, baseline data on the levels and profiles of these phenolic compounds in Japanese mammals (human, cat, dog, raccoon dog, and northern fur seal) and birds (black-tailed gull, common cormorant, and jungle crow) were obtained. Eighteen identifiable and fifty unknown peaks of OH-PCBs were detected and the major congeners identified were 4'OH-CB101/120, 4OH-CB107/4'OH-CB108, 4OH-CB146, 4OH-CB178, 4OH-CB187, 4'OH-CB172, 4OH-CB202, and 4'OH-CB199. Relatively higher concentrations of OH-PCBs were found in animal species than humans; OH-PCB levels in dog, raccoon dog, black-tailed gull, and common cormorant blood were one order of magnitude higher than in humans. Penta- to hepta-chlorinated OH-PCB congeners were predominant in human blood, but profiles of OH-PCBs in other animals widely varied by species. Elevated composition of tri- and tetra-chlorinated OH-PCBs in cat blood and octa-chlorinated OH-PCBs in dog and raccoon dog blood were observed. In cat blood, elevated PCP concentration was also found. When concentration ratios of OH-PCBs to PCBs were calculated in all the animal blood, the ratios in dog, raccoon dog, and cat were notably higher than in other species. These results indicate that animals other than humans, especially cat and canine species such as dog and raccoon dog, might be at risk from OH-PCBs.}, }
@article {pmid19052857, year = {2009}, author = {Bölte, S and Dziobek, I and Poustka, F}, title = {Brief report: The level and nature of autistic intelligence revisited.}, journal = {Journal of autism and developmental disorders}, volume = {39}, number = {4}, pages = {678-682}, pmid = {19052857}, issn = {1573-3432}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Autistic Disorder/diagnosis/*psychology ; Child ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Owing to higher performance on the Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM) than on the Wechsler Intelligence Scales (WIS), it has recently been argued that intelligence is underestimated in autism. This study examined RPM and WIS IQs in 48 individuals with autism, a mixed clinical (n = 28) and a neurotypical (n = 25) control group. Average RPM IQ was higher than WIS IQ only in the autism group, albeit to a much lesser degree than previously reported and only for individuals with WIS IQs <85. Consequently, and given the importance of reliable multidimensional IQ estimates in autism, the WIS are recommended as first choice IQ measure in high functioning individuals. Additional testing with the RPM might be required in the lower end of the spectrum.}, }
@article {pmid19045673, year = {2008}, author = {Heller, JR and Pinezich, JD}, title = {Automatic recognition of harmonic bird sounds using a frequency track extraction algorithm.}, journal = {The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America}, volume = {124}, number = {3}, pages = {1830-1837}, doi = {10.1121/1.2950085}, pmid = {19045673}, issn = {1520-8524}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Charadriiformes/physiology ; Crows/physiology ; Geese/physiology ; *Models, Statistical ; *Pattern Recognition, Automated ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted ; *Sound Spectrography ; Time Factors ; Vocalization, Animal/*classification ; }, abstract = {This paper demonstrates automatic recognition of vocalizations of four common bird species (herring gull [Larus argentatus], blue jay [Cyanocitta cristata], Canada goose [Branta canadensis], and American crow [Corvus brachyrhynchos]) using an algorithm that extracts frequency track sets using track properties of importance and harmonic correlation. The main result is that a complex harmonic vocalization is rendered into a set of related tracks that is easily applied to statistical models of the actual bird vocalizations. For each vocalization type, a statistical model of the vocalization was created by transforming the training set frequency tracks into feature vectors. The extraction algorithm extracts sets of frequency tracks from test recordings that closely approximate harmonic sounds in the file being processed. Each extracted set in its final form is then compared with the statistical models generated during the training phase using Mahalanobis distance functions. If it matches one of the models closely, the recognizer declares the set an occurrence of the corresponding vocalization. The method was evaluated against a test set containing vocalizations of both the 4 target species and 16 additional species as well as background noise containing planes, cars, and various natural sounds.}, }
@article {pmid19040827, year = {2008}, author = {Savini, G and Monaco, F and Calistri, P and Lelli, R}, title = {Phylogenetic analysis of West Nile virus isolated in Italy in 2008.}, journal = {Euro surveillance : bulletin Europeen sur les maladies transmissibles = European communicable disease bulletin}, volume = {13}, number = {48}, pages = {}, pmid = {19040827}, issn = {1560-7917}, mesh = {Animal Diseases/epidemiology/*virology ; Animals ; Italy/epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary/*virology ; West Nile virus/classification/*genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {In Italy the first occurrence of West Nile virus (WNV) infection was reported in Tuscany region during the late summer of 1998. In August 2008, the WNV infection re-emerged in Italy, in areas surrounding the Po river delta, and involving three regions Lombardy, Emilia Romagna and Veneto. WNV was isolated from blood and organs samples of one horse, one donkey, one pigeon (Columba livia) and three magpies (Pica pica). The phylogenetic analysis of the isolates, conducted on 255 bp in the region coding for the E protein, indicates that these isolates belong to the lineage I among the European strains. According to the analysis, both the 1998 and 2008 Italian strains as well as isolates from Romania, Russia, Senegal and Kenya fell in the same sub-cluster.}, }
@article {pmid19038402, year = {2009}, author = {Najman, JM and Hayatbakhsh, MR and Heron, MA and Bor, W and O'Callaghan, MJ and Williams, GM}, title = {The impact of episodic and chronic poverty on child cognitive development.}, journal = {The Journal of pediatrics}, volume = {154}, number = {2}, pages = {284-289}, doi = {10.1016/j.jpeds.2008.08.052}, pmid = {19038402}, issn = {1097-6833}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Australia ; Child ; *Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Income ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Intelligence Tests ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Poverty ; Prospective Studies ; Vocabulary ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine whether changes in family poverty between pregnancy, early childhood, and adolescence predict child cognitive development at 14 years of age.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a population-based prospective birth cohort study of 7223 mothers who gave birth to a live singleton baby, observed to 14 years of age. Family income was measured on 4 occasions from pregnancy to the 14-year follow-up. Child cognitive development was measured at the 14-year follow-up using the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices and Wide Range Achievement Test.<br><br>RESULTS: Poverty experienced at any stage of the child's development is associated with reduced cognitive outcomes. Exposure to poverty for a longer duration (birth to 14 years) is more detrimental to cognitive outcomes than experiencing poverty at only 1 period. For each additional exposure to poverty, the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices scores declined by 2.19 units and the Wide Range Achievement Test scores declined by 1.74 units.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Children experiencing family poverty at any developmental stage in their early life course have reduced levels of cognitive development, with the frequency that poverty is experienced predicting the extent of reduced cognitive scores.}, }
@article {pmid19036412, year = {2009}, author = {Jaspers, VL and Covaci, A and Deleu, P and Eens, M}, title = {Concentrations in bird feathers reflect regional contamination with organic pollutants.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {407}, number = {4}, pages = {1447-1451}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2008.10.030}, pmid = {19036412}, issn = {0048-9697}, mesh = {Animals ; Dichlorodiphenyl Dichloroethylene/*analysis/pharmacokinetics ; Environmental Monitoring/methods ; Feathers/*chemistry/metabolism ; Halogenated Diphenyl Ethers/*analysis/pharmacokinetics ; Polychlorinated Biphenyls/*analysis/pharmacokinetics ; Songbirds/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Feathers have recently been shown to be potentially useful non-destructive biomonitoring tools for organic pollutants. However, the suitability of feathers to monitor regional variations in contamination has not been investigated until now. Here concentrations of organic pollutants were compared in feathers of common magpies (Pica pica) between urban and rural areas in Flanders, Belgium. The results showed that concentrations of p,p'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE) were significantly higher in the rural areas (rural: 12-140 ng/g feather, urban: 1.1-7.2 ng/g feather), while polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were significantly more available in an urban environment (sum PCBs--rural: 2.9-22 ng/g feather, urban: 41-240 ng/g feather). This pattern agrees with previous studies using other tissues than feathers as a biomonitoring tool. In addition, differences in PCBs and PBDEs profiles were found with lower halogenated congeners being more prominent in the urban areas in comparison to the rural areas. In summary, feathers seem to reflect regional variations in contamination, which strengthens their usefulness as a non-destructive biomonitor for organic pollutants.}, }
@article {pmid19035844, year = {2009}, author = {Goldschmidt-Clermont, PJ}, title = {Jay and Jeanie Schottenstein prize in cardiovascular science: predicting cardiovascular illnesses for the 21(st) century, and the unpredictable..}, journal = {Antioxidants &amp; redox signaling}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {401-406}, pmid = {19035844}, issn = {1557-7716}, mesh = {*Awards and Prizes ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/complications ; Humans ; Neoplasms/complications ; }, abstract = {Changes in our society such as the increasing cost of retirement and age redistribution toward a larger elderly population will require humans to remain highly functional until an advanced age. As a consequence, chronic illnesses that are primarily responsible for reducing functionality and life expectancy will require improved prevention and therapeutic strategies. In a global way, cardiovascular disease and cancer represent the most challenging disorders to maintaining the functional integrity of our fellow humans. A new theory has been derived from recent progress in our understanding of atherosclerosis as a key mechanism for cardiovascular disease and of cancer. Instructively, this theory provides a bridge at the stem cell level, linking most chronic disorders.}, }
@article {pmid19024689, year = {2008}, author = {Anufriev, AI and Solomonov, NG and Isayev, AP and Yadrikhinsky, VF and Mordosova, NI}, title = {Changes in the body temperature during the annual cycle and metabolic rate in the raven Corvus corax at winter ambient temperatures.}, journal = {Doklady biological sciences : proceedings of the Academy of Sciences of the USSR, Biological sciences sections}, volume = {422}, number = {}, pages = {339-341}, pmid = {19024689}, issn = {0012-4966}, mesh = {Animals ; Arctic Regions ; Basal Metabolism ; *Body Temperature Regulation ; Circadian Rhythm ; Cold Climate ; Crows/metabolism/*physiology ; Life Cycle Stages ; Seasons ; }, }
@article {pmid19021676, year = {2008}, author = {Carruthers, A and Carruthers, J and Hardas, B and Kaur, M and Goertelmeyer, R and Jones, D and Rzany, B and Cohen, J and Kerscher, M and Flynn, TC and Maas, C and Sattler, G and Gebauer, A and Pooth, R and McClure, K and Simone-Korbel, U and Buchner, L}, title = {A validated grading scale for crow's feet.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {34 Suppl 2}, number = {}, pages = {S173-8}, doi = {10.1111/j.1524-4725.2008.34367.x}, pmid = {19021676}, issn = {1524-4725}, mesh = {Esthetics/*classification ; Face/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Female ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Male ; Observer Variation ; Photography ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To develop the Crow's Feet Grading Scale for objective quantification of the severity of lateral canthal lines and to establish the reliability of this photonumeric scale for clinical research and practice.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 5-point photonumeric rating scale was developed to objectively quantify the severity of lateral canthal lines at rest and at maximum contracture of the orbicularis oculi. Nine experts rated photographs of 35 subjects, twice, with regard to the aspect crow's feet in comparison with morphed images. Inter- and intrarater variability was assessed by computing intraclass correlation coefficients.<br><br>RESULTS: The agreement between the experts was significantly high. Furthermore, the test-retest correlation coefficients were high for each expert after an overnight interval, demonstrating low inter- and intraevaluator variability.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The 5-point photonumeric scale generated spans the severity of the type of crow's feet for which patients most commonly seek correction. The scale is well stratified for consistent rating.}, }
@article {pmid19018949, year = {2010}, author = {Nishi, H and Sawamoto, N and Namiki, C and Yoshida, H and Dinh, HD and Ishizu, K and Hashikawa, K and Fukuyama, H}, title = {Correlation between cognitive deficits and glucose hypometabolism in mild cognitive impairment.}, journal = {Journal of neuroimaging : official journal of the American Society of Neuroimaging}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {29-36}, doi = {10.1111/j.1552-6569.2008.00328.x}, pmid = {19018949}, issn = {1552-6569}, mesh = {Aged ; Brain/diagnostic imaging/*metabolism ; Brain Mapping ; Cognition Disorders/diagnostic imaging/*metabolism ; Executive Function/*physiology ; Female ; Fluorodeoxyglucose F18 ; Glucose/*metabolism ; Humans ; Linear Models ; Male ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Positron-Emission Tomography ; Prospective Studies ; Visual Perception/physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), poor performances on delayed recall and executive function are risk factors of progression to dementia. The aim of the present study was to clarify neural correlates of these neuropsychological deficits.<br><br>METHODS: Thirty patients with amnestic MCI and 15 control subjects underwent neuropsychological tests including three-word delayed recall, visual delayed recall of Rey complex figure (RCF), and two-relational reasoning of Raven's colored progressive matrices (RCPM) with a (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-position emission tomography (PET) measurement of resting state. We evaluated a relationship between performance of neuropsychological tests and regional cerebral glucose metabolism using voxel-based analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: Poor performance in three-word delayed recall was related to glucose hypometabolism in the right medial temporal, right prefrontal, and left superior parietal cortices. The deficit in visual delayed recall of RCF correlated positively with hypometabolism in the bilateral posterior cingulate. The impairment in two-relational reasoning was associated with hypometabolism in the right prefrontal cortex.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The present findings suggest that hypometabolism in the right medial temporal cortex, right prefrontal cortex, left superior parietal cortex, and bilateral posterior cingulate reflects impairments in delayed recall while hypometabolism in the right prefrontal cortex mirrors deficits in executive function in MCI.}, }
@article {pmid19017781, year = {2008}, author = {Dierckx, E and Engelborghs, S and De Raedt, R and Van Buggenhout, M and De Deyn, PP and Verleye, G and Verte, D and Ponjaert-Kristoffersen, I}, title = {Differentiation between dementia and depression among older persons: can the difference between actual and premorbid intelligence be useful?.}, journal = {Journal of geriatric psychiatry and neurology}, volume = {21}, number = {4}, pages = {242-249}, doi = {10.1177/0891988708324938}, pmid = {19017781}, issn = {0891-9887}, mesh = {Aged/*psychology ; Alzheimer Disease/psychology ; Cognition Disorders/psychology ; Dementia/*diagnosis/diagnostic imaging/*psychology ; Depressive Disorder/*diagnosis/diagnostic imaging/*psychology ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Education ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Logistic Models ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Tomography, Emission-Computed, Single-Photon ; }, abstract = {We wanted to investigate whether the difference between actual and premorbid intelligence can be useful to make an early differentiation between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and depression among elderly. A Dutch version of the National Adult Reading Test (NLV), a measure of premorbid IQ and the Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM), a measure of actual intelligence were administered to patients with mild (34) and moderate (27) AD, depressed elderly (36) and healthy control subjects (51). Logistic regression analyses revealed that intellectual decline (i.e. subtracting NLV percentile score from RCPM percentile score) was only able to predict group membership when moderate AD patients were compared to depressed and healthy individuals. Our results indicate that intellectual decline may not be a concomitant of elderly depression. However, the differentiation between mild AD and elderly depression can not be made by means of the difference between premorbid (NLV) and actual (RCPM) intelligence scores.}, }
@article {pmid19010309, year = {2009}, author = {Du, A and Daidoji, T and Koma, T and Ibrahim, MS and Nakamura, S and de Silva, UC and Ueda, M and Yang, CS and Yasunaga, T and Ikuta, K and Nakaya, T}, title = {Detection of circulating Asian H5N1 viruses by a newly established monoclonal antibody.}, journal = {Biochemical and biophysical research communications}, volume = {378}, number = {2}, pages = {197-202}, doi = {10.1016/j.bbrc.2008.11.022}, pmid = {19010309}, issn = {1090-2104}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/*immunology ; Antibodies, Viral/*immunology ; Asia ; Chickens/virology ; *Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay ; Epitope Mapping ; Female ; Hemagglutinin Glycoproteins, Influenza Virus/classification/*immunology ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Influenza in Birds/*diagnosis/immunology ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred BALB C ; Neutralization Tests ; Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {Monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) against the recently emerged Asian H5N1 virus (A/crow/Kyoto/53/2004) were generated. From five anti-hemagglutinin (HA) MAbs, four antibodies (3C11, 4C12, 3H12, and 3H4) broadly in vitro recognized and neutralized H5 subtypes, including H5N1. By contrast, the 4G6 MAb specifically reacted with H5N1-HA and not with H5N2- or H5N3-HAs from previous epidemics. The 4G6 MAb was useful for immunofluorescence assays but not for immunoblotting, suggesting that this antibody recognizes a conformational epitope of the H5N1-HA protein. An intensive epitope-mapping analysis demonstrated that the 4G6 MAb recognizes Asp59, which is highly conserved among currently circulating H5N1 lineages. Further, a 4G6-based antigen capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay detected H5N1 even that derived from clade 2.2 (A/chicken/Egypt/CL-61/2007) from infected chicken lung before virus isolation. Taken together, these results suggest that the established MAbs, especially 4G6, are useful for rapid and specific detection of Asian H5N1 viruses.}, }
@article {pmid19004529, year = {2010}, author = {van den Kommer, TN and Dik, MG and Comijs, HC and Jonker, C and Deeg, DJ}, title = {Homocysteine and inflammation: predictors of cognitive decline in older persons?.}, journal = {Neurobiology of aging}, volume = {31}, number = {10}, pages = {1700-1709}, doi = {10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2008.09.009}, pmid = {19004529}, issn = {1558-1497}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*blood/psychology ; Biomarkers/blood ; C-Reactive Protein/analysis ; *Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/blood/*diagnosis ; Homocysteine/*blood ; Humans ; Interleukin-6/blood ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Risk Factors ; alpha 1-Antichymotrypsin/blood ; }, abstract = {The aim of the current study was to examine the association between homocysteine and 6-year cognitive decline, and the modifying role of the inflammatory markers Interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP) and alpha-1-antichymotrypsin (ACT). Data were collected within the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (ages >or=65 years) and analyzed using multiple longitudinal regression models (N=1257 of whom N=1076 had longitudinal data). Cognition was measured with the Mini-Mental State Examination (general cognition), Auditory Verbal Learning Test (memory), Coding Task (information processing speed) and Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices (fluid intelligence). Higher homocysteine at baseline was negatively associated with prolonged lower cognitive functioning and a faster rate of decline in information processing speed and fluid intelligence. The negative association between higher homocysteine and immediate recall was strongest in persons with a high level of IL-6. Only in the highest tertile of CRP, higher homocysteine was negatively associated with retention. In the middle tertile of ACT, higher homocysteine was associated with lower information processing speed and faster decline. Both in the lower and middle tertile of CRP, higher homocysteine was associated with a faster rate of decline in information processing speed. The results implicate that a combination of both risk factors may be used as a marker for cognitive impairment.}, }
@article {pmid18999894, year = {2008}, author = {Gronesová, P and Trnka, A and Kabát, P and Betáková, T}, title = {Avian influenza viruses detected in European magpie nestlings.}, journal = {Acta virologica}, volume = {52}, number = {3}, pages = {185-186}, pmid = {18999894}, issn = {0001-723X}, mesh = {Animals ; Cloaca/virology ; Europe/epidemiology ; Influenza A Virus, H2N2 Subtype/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Influenza A virus/*classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Influenza in Birds/*epidemiology/virology ; *Nesting Behavior ; Oropharynx/virology ; Passeriformes/*virology ; Prevalence ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; }, }
@article {pmid18999456, year = {2008}, author = {Saakian, DB and Rozanova, O and Akmetzhanov, A}, title = {Dynamics of the Eigen and the Crow-Kimura models for molecular evolution.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {78}, number = {4 Pt 1}, pages = {041908}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.78.041908}, pmid = {18999456}, issn = {1539-3755}, mesh = {*Computer Simulation ; *Evolution, Molecular ; *Genome ; *Models, Biological ; }, abstract = {We introduce an alternative way to study molecular evolution within well-established Hamilton-Jacobi formalism, showing that for a broad class of fitness landscapes it is possible to derive dynamics analytically within the 1N accuracy, where N is the genome length. For a smooth and monotonic fitness function this approach gives two dynamical phases: smooth dynamics and discontinuous dynamics. The latter phase arises naturally with no explicite singular fitness function, counterintuitively. The Hamilton-Jacobi method yields straightforward analytical results for the models that utilize fitness as a function of Hamming distance from a reference genome sequence. We also show the way in which this method gives dynamical phase structure for multipeak fitness.}, }
@article {pmid18986506, year = {2008}, author = {Baker, AJ}, title = {Islands in the sky: the impact of Pleistocene climate cycles on biodiversity.}, journal = {Journal of biology}, volume = {7}, number = {9}, pages = {32}, pmid = {18986506}, issn = {1475-4924}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biodiversity ; Biological Evolution ; *Climate Change ; DNA, Mitochondrial/chemistry ; Genetic Speciation ; Ice Cover ; Mexico ; Models, Theoretical ; Population Dynamics ; Songbirds/genetics/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Genetic studies of organisms based on coalescent modeling and paleoenvironmental data, including a new study in BMC Biology of Mexican jays in the sky islands of Arizona and northern Mexico, show that populations differentiated in multiple refugia during and after glacial cycles.}, }
@article {pmid18984000, year = {2009}, author = {Clayton, NS and Russell, J}, title = {Looking for episodic memory in animals and young children: prospects for a new minimalism.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {47}, number = {11}, pages = {2330-2340}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2008.10.011}, pmid = {18984000}, issn = {1873-3514}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Child ; Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; Humans ; Memory/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Because animals and young children cannot be interrogated about their experiences it is difficult to conduct research into their episodic memories. The approach to this issue adopted by Clayton and Dickinson [Clayton, N. S., &amp; Dickinson, A. (1998). Episodic-like memory during cache recovery by scrub jays. Nature, 395, 272-274] was to take a conceptually minimalist definition of episodic memory, in terms of integrating information about what was done where and when [Tulving, E. (1972). Episodic and semantic memory. In E. Tulving, &amp; W. Donaldson (Eds.), Organisation of memory (pp. 381-403). New York: Academic Press], and to refer to such memories as 'episodic-like'. Some claim, however, that because animals supposedly lack the conceptual abilities necessary for episodic recall one should properly call these memories 'semantic'. We address this debate with a novel approach to episodic memory, which is minimalist insofar as it focuses on the non-conceptual content of a re-experienced situation. It rests on Kantian assumptions about the necessary 'perspectival' features of any objective experience or re-experience. We show how adopting this perspectival approach can render an episodic interpretation of the animal data more plausible and can also reveal patterns in the mosaic of developmental evidence for episodic memory in humans.}, }
@article {pmid18982950, year = {2008}, author = {Khaleefa, O and Lynn, R}, title = {Normative data for Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices scale in Yemen.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {103}, number = {1}, pages = {170-172}, doi = {10.2466/pr0.103.1.170-172}, pmid = {18982950}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {Child ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Reference Values ; *Surveys and Questionnaires ; Yemen ; }, abstract = {Results are reported for a standardization sample of 986 6- to 1-yr.-olds for the Coloured Progressive Matrices in Yemen. Younger children performed better than older children relative to British norms, and there was no significant sex difference in means or variability. In relation to a British IQ of 100 (SD=15), the sample obtained an average IQ of approximately 81.}, }
@article {pmid18976197, year = {2008}, author = {Wilson, PA}, title = {Zygomycosis due to Saksenaea vasiformis caused by a magpie peck.}, journal = {The Medical journal of Australia}, volume = {189}, number = {9}, pages = {521-522}, doi = {10.5694/j.1326-5377.2008.tb02150.x}, pmid = {18976197}, issn = {0025-729X}, mesh = {Aged, 80 and over ; Amphotericin B/therapeutic use ; Amputation, Surgical ; Animals ; Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use ; Bites and Stings/*microbiology ; Gangrene/microbiology ; Humans ; Male ; Mucorales/*isolation &amp; purification ; Mucormycosis/diagnosis/drug therapy/*microbiology/surgery ; Passeriformes/*microbiology ; }, }
@article {pmid18973445, year = {2008}, author = {Jansen, CC and Webb, CE and Northill, JA and Ritchie, SA and Russell, RC and Van den Hurk, AF}, title = {Vector competence of Australian mosquito species for a North American strain of West Nile virus.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {8}, number = {6}, pages = {805-811}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2008.0037}, pmid = {18973445}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Culicidae/*virology ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; North America ; West Nile virus/*classification ; }, abstract = {Since the establishment of West Nile virus (WNV) into the United States, concern has arisen that this virus may also pose a serious threat to Australian biosecurity. The vector competence of 19 Australian mosquito species for a North American strain of WNV was evaluated. Mosquitoes collected from Cairns, Brisbane, and Sydney were exposed to blood containing 10(4.0+/-0.3) cell culture infectious dose(50)/mosquito WNV that was isolated from a crow during the 1999 New York outbreak. Mosquitoes were tested 12-15 days later to determine their infection, dissemination, and transmission rates. A number of Culex spp. demonstrated a high vector competence for this virus, with some populations of Culex annulirostris, the primary Australian Kunjin virus vector, displaying transmission rates up to 84%. Similarly, Cx. quinquefasciatus and Cx. gelidus were highly competent, with infection and transmission rates of >80% and >50%, respectively. Common Aedes spp., including Aedes notoscriptus, Ae. vigilax, and Ae. procax, were moderately susceptible, and some Verrallina spp. and Coquillettidia spp. were relatively refractory to infection. Thus, Australia possesses a number of competent mosquito species that could facilitate local transmission of WNV, should it be introduced.}, }
@article {pmid18973443, year = {2009}, author = {Nelder, MP and Reeves, WK and Adler, PH and Wozniak, A and Wills, W}, title = {Ectoparasites and associated pathogens of free-roaming and captive animals in zoos of South Carolina.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {9}, number = {5}, pages = {469-477}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2008.0008}, pmid = {18973443}, issn = {1557-7759}, mesh = {Animal Diseases/*epidemiology/microbiology/parasitology/transmission ; Animals ; Animals, Zoo ; Arthropod Vectors/*microbiology ; Arthropods/*microbiology ; Birds ; Disease Reservoirs/veterinary ; Ectoparasitic Infestations/epidemiology/*veterinary ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; Humans ; Mammals ; South Carolina/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {A survey of ectoparasites and their associated pathogens was conducted in two South Carolina zoos, from 2004 to 2007. Dead, wild birds and mammals, as well as captive animals examined during routine veterinary checks constituted the study populations. Ectoparasites were tested for species of Anaplasma, Bartonella, Coxiella burnetii, Ehrlichia, Rickettsia, and Trypanosoma. Forty-six species of ectoparasites were collected from 133 free-roaming and captive hosts and their associated nesting and bedding materials. Six vector-borne pathogens were detected molecularly in the ectoparasites, including Anaplasma phagocytophilum in the tick Ixodes dentatus Marx from an eastern cottontail rabbit, Bartonella clarridgeiae in the cat flea Ctenocephalides felis (Bouché) from a Virginia opossum, Bartonella sp. Oh6 in the squirrel flea Orchopeas howardi (Baker) from an eastern grey squirrel, Bartonella sp. T7498 in the sucking louse Neohaematopinus sciuri Jancke from a squirrel, Rickettsia sp. Rf2125 in C. felis from a zookeeper and a grizzly bear, and Rickettsiales sp. Ib 2006 in Ixodes brunneus Koch from an American crow. While the pathology of some of these pathogens is poorly known, Anaplasma phagocytophilum (causative agent of human granulocytic anaplasmosis) and Bartonella clarridgeiae (causative agent of a disease similar to cat-scratch disease) can infect humans. Ectoparasites and their pathogens, especially those originating from free-roaming animals, present a potential threat to captive animals and humans.}, }
@article {pmid18972701, year = {2008}, author = {Inac, S and Gorucu, O and Pinar, AH}, title = {The bird species of Kumasir lake (Kahramanmaras-Turkey) and a view of environmental ethics on sustainable wetland management.}, journal = {Journal of environmental biology}, volume = {29}, number = {3}, pages = {411-414}, pmid = {18972701}, issn = {0254-8704}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*classification ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; *Environment ; *Ethics ; Species Specificity ; Turkey ; *Wetlands ; }, abstract = {Kumasir lake is located next to towns of Donuklu and Fatih, nine km west of Kahramanmaras city center the region of east Mediterranean, Turkey This lake is of crucial importance from the point of native and immigrant birds. We located 17 birdspecies in this area during our observations carried out in the spring and autumn of 2005-2006. These were Ciconia ciconia L., Anas platyrhynchos L., Accipiter nisus L., Accipiter brevipes L., Fulica atra L., Columba palumbus L., Merops apiaster L., Upupa epops L., Alauda arvensis L., Motacilla flava L., Turdus merula L., Acrocephalus scirpaceus L., Regulus regulus L., Garrulus glandarius L., Corvus corax L., Fringilla coelebs L., Hirundo rustica L.. Among observed 17 species; 6 of them were immigrant and remaining 11 of them were native birds. Kumasir lake is surrounded by wetland of Amik and Gavur lake. Since it was greatly dried, it was transformed to farmland. Consequently the birds lost most of theirnests and settlements. However not taken in the care of environmental ethic values, the wastewaters of the villages drain to lake reservoir; herbicides and insecticides used for agriculture are polluting the water reeds have been burned, the lake's reeds are getting dry by the irrigation for the farmland. So, the wetland ecosystem is being affected negatively by these factors. On the other hand, the birds are exposed to illegal and unlawful hunting. For this reasons, this lake must be taken into a management regime of sustainable wetland (protection profiting balance) and used techniques of participation planning via the process of sustainable natural resources and planning.}, }
@article {pmid18956787, year = {2008}, author = {Tsukahara, N and Yang, Q and Sugita, S}, title = {Structure of the syringeal muscles in jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Anatomical science international}, volume = {83}, number = {3}, pages = {152-158}, doi = {10.1111/j.1447-073X.2007.00225.x}, pmid = {18956787}, issn = {1447-6959}, mesh = {Animals ; Bronchi/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Fascia/anatomy &amp; histology ; Female ; Male ; Muscles/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Trachea/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Vocalization, Animal/physiology ; }, abstract = {Birds' vocalizations are produced by the syrinx, which is located between the trachea and the two primary bronchi. Oscine birds have multiple pairs of syringeal muscles in the syrinx. To determine the detailed structure of the syringeal muscle in jungle crows, an oscine bird, a histological study and gross examination of the syrinx were performed. In the histological study, sections of the syrinxes from four jungle crows were stained with Azan and observed. Each syringeal muscle was classified by the limit of the fascia from neighbor fascicules. From the gross examination a 3-D image of the structure of the syringeal muscles was generated. The combined histological and anatomical results show that there are seven pairs of syringeal muscles in jungle crows. Muscle fusions were observed in some of the syringeal muscles. It is likely that each syringeal muscle has a specific role. Jungle crows may be able to generate various calls because they have several pairs of syringeal muscles.}, }
@article {pmid18956743, year = {2008}, author = {Pravdukhina, OIu and Kodolova, OP}, title = {[Age-related variation of adductor weight in the japanese scallop Mizuhopecten yessoensis (Jay) depending on cultivation technique].}, journal = {Izvestiia Akademii nauk. Seriia biologicheskaia}, volume = {}, number = {5}, pages = {631-634}, pmid = {18956743}, issn = {1026-3470}, mesh = {Aging/*physiology ; Animals ; Muscles/*physiology ; Oceans and Seas ; Organ Size/physiology ; Pectinidae/*growth &amp; development ; Siberia ; }, abstract = {Age-related variation in the absolute and relative adductor weight has been studied for 8 years in six samples of Japanese scallops Mizuhopecten yessoensis (Jay) of different generations from a shellfish farm in Alekseev Bight, Sea of Japan. The test character has proved to vary widely within the samples, with variation in shell size being relatively low. It has been shown that the dependence of adductor weight on the age of the scallop is not absolute: even-aged samples from different generations may differ significantly in this character. It is assumed that this effect is due to the influence of environmental factors on the development of scallops at early stages, which is especially strong under conditions of dense spat planting in the course of cultivation.}, }
@article {pmid18952598, year = {2009}, author = {Liu, HL and Lam, LT and Zeng, Q and Han, SQ and Fu, G and Hou, CC}, title = {Effects of drinking water with high iodine concentration on the intelligence of children in Tianjin, China.}, journal = {Journal of public health (Oxford, England)}, volume = {31}, number = {1}, pages = {32-38}, doi = {10.1093/pubmed/fdn097}, pmid = {18952598}, issn = {1741-3850}, mesh = {Child ; China ; Female ; Health Surveys ; Humans ; Intelligence/*drug effects ; Iodine/adverse effects/*analysis ; Male ; Residence Characteristics ; Water Supply/*analysis ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the effects of drinking water with high concentrations of iodine on the intelligence of children in Tianjin, China.<br><br>METHODS: It was a population-based health survey utilizing a random cluster sampling design conducted in June 2005. Participants were recruited from the total population of primary school children attending years 1-4 with ages ranging from 8 to 10 years. Intelligence quotient (IQ) was assessed using the combined Raven's test, second edition. Linear regression analyses were applied to test for any association between water iodine concentration and IQ.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 1229 students were recruited with a mean IQ of 105.8 (95% CI: 104.2-107.3). Water analyses indicated iodine concentrations were high in one rural region and exceedingly high in another with median values of 137.5 and 234.7 microg/l, respectively. There was a significant association between residing in the very high water iodine region and a reduction of IQ by an average of about nine points (P = 0.022), after adjusting for the potential confounding factors.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Exposure to high iodine concentrations in drinking water has detrimental effects on the intelligence of children.}, }
@article {pmid18952187, year = {2008}, author = {Jansson, DS and Fellström, C and Johansson, KE}, title = {Intestinal spirochetes isolated from wild-living jackdaws, hooded crows and rooks (genus Corvus): provisionally designated "Brachyspira corvi" sp. nov.}, journal = {Anaerobe}, volume = {14}, number = {5}, pages = {287-295}, doi = {10.1016/j.anaerobe.2008.09.002}, pmid = {18952187}, issn = {1095-8274}, mesh = {Animals ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; Brachyspira/*classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification/physiology ; Cloaca/microbiology ; Cluster Analysis ; Crows/*microbiology ; DNA, Bacterial/chemistry/genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal/chemistry/genetics ; Genes, rRNA ; Hemolysis ; Hippurates/metabolism ; Indoles/metabolism ; Intestines/*microbiology ; Molecular Sequence Data ; NADH, NADPH Oxidoreductases/genetics ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Bacterial/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Technique ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Sequence Homology, Nucleic Acid ; Sweden ; Swine ; }, abstract = {Intestinal spirochetes of genus Brachyspira are commonly isolated from mammalian and avian hosts, and several species have been reported to cause enteric disease in pigs and birds. Except for a previous publication on three isolates from corvid birds (order Passeriformes, family Corvidae, genus Corvus), of which two are further studied in this paper, no other reports exist on Brachyspira spp. of passerine birds. In this study, cloacal and intestinal swabs of small and large intestines were collected from 116 corvid birds of three species, i.e. jackdaws (Corvus monedula), hooded crows (Corvus corone cornix) and rooks (Corvus frugilegus), from four separate geographical locations in Sweden. Isolates were obtained by selective culture from 43 of 116 birds. All isolates were weakly hemolytic, indole-negative and lacked hippurate cleavage capacity. Examination by light microscopy did not indicate association with enteric disease in necropsied birds. Pure spirochete cultures were obtained by serial dilution and subculture, and selected isolates were analyzed by PCR (n=14), randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) (n=14), and sequencing of the almost complete 16S rRNA (n=14), and partial nox genes (n=4). Positive reactions were noticed by PCR targeting a hexa-T segment of the 16S rRNA gene, which has been previously reported as a signature characteristic of Brachyspira pilosicoli. By 16S rRNA gene sequencing, the isolates formed a separate cluster related to genus Brachyspira, but not consistent with any presently recognized or proposed Brachyspira sp. The sequence similarity of the 16S rRNA gene among the isolates from corvid birds was 99.7-100%. Compared to 16S rRNA gene sequence data from all presently recognized and several proposed Brachyspira spp. the sequence similarity of the isolates from corvid birds varied between 94.1 and 96.5%. In a radial tree based on nox gene sequences, all four analyzed isolates from corvid birds formed a separate cluster. By RAPD analysis, the banding patterns of the isolates differed from all type strains of Brachyspira spp. Based on the results presented in this paper, we propose that the described isolates from corvid birds belong to a novel species within genus Brachyspira, with the provisional name "Brachyspira corvi" (cor'vi. L gen. n. corvi, of a crow).}, }
@article {pmid18950549, year = {2009}, author = {Mavroveli, S and Petrides, KV and Sangareau, Y and Furnham, A}, title = {Exploring the relationships between trait emotional intelligence and objective socio-emotional outcomes in childhood.}, journal = {The British journal of educational psychology}, volume = {79}, number = {Pt 2}, pages = {259-272}, doi = {10.1348/000709908X368848}, pmid = {18950549}, issn = {0007-0998}, mesh = {*Character ; Child ; *Emotions ; Facial Expression ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Personality Inventory ; Psychometrics/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Self Efficacy ; Sex Factors ; *Social Behavior ; Socialization ; Sociometric Techniques ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Trait emotional intelligence (trait EI or trait emotional self-efficacy) is a constellation of emotion-related self-perceptions and dispositions located at the lower levels of personality hierarchies. This paper examines the validity of this construct, as operationalized by the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire-Child Form (TEIQue-CF), in primary schoolchildren.<br><br>AIMS: The main aim was to examine the construct validity of trait EI in middle and late childhood by exploring its relationships with cognitive ability, emotion perception, and social behaviour.<br><br>SAMPLE: The sample comprised 140 children aged between 8 and 12 years (M=9.26 years, SD=1.00 year; 63 girls) from two English state primary schools.<br><br>METHOD: Pupils completed the TEIQue-CF, the standard progressive matrices (SPM), the guess who peer assessment, the social skills training (SST) test, and the assessment of children's emotion skills (ACES) during formal class periods. The procedure took approximately two hours with a short break between assessments.<br><br>RESULTS: Trait EI scores were positively related both to peer-rated prosocial behaviour and to overall peer competence. They also predicted emotion perception accuracy beyond overall peer competence. As hypothesized in trait EI theory, the construct was unrelated to IQ (Raven's matrices) and academic performance.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Trait EI is successfully operationalized through the TEIQue-CF and has important and multifaceted implications for the socialization of primary schoolchildren.}, }
@article {pmid18948884, year = {2008}, author = {Lee, HY and Stephen, A and Sushela, D and Mala, M}, title = {Detection of protozoan and bacterial pathogens of public health importance in faeces of Corvus spp. (large-billed crow).}, journal = {Tropical biomedicine}, volume = {25}, number = {2}, pages = {134-139}, pmid = {18948884}, issn = {0127-5720}, mesh = {Animals ; Bacteria/classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; Crows/*microbiology/*parasitology ; Eukaryota/classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; Feces/*microbiology/*parasitology ; Malaysia ; Public Health ; }, abstract = {Parasites and bacteria are reported in the faeces of birds in the current study. Fresh faecal samples of the large-billed crow (Corvus spp.) were collected from the study site at Bangsar, an urban setting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. These samples were transported to laboratory and analysed for parasites and bacteria. Pre-prepared XLD agar plates were used for culturing the bacteria in the laboratory. Using the API 20ETM Test Strips, 9 different species of bacteria were identified belonging to the family Enterobacteriacea. They were Citrobacter freundii, Enterobacter cloacae, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Kluyvera ascorbata, Salmonella arizonae, Salmonella typhi, Shigella flexneri and Shigella sonnei. The protozoan parasites detected include Cryptosporidium spp., Cyclospora spp., Blastocystis spp., and Capillaria hepatica and Ascaris lumbricoidus ova. Environmental air samples collected on agar plates using an air sampler in the area only produced fungal colonies. Some of these pathogens found in the crows are of zoonotic importance, especially Cryptosporidium, Blastocystis, Cyclopsora, Salmonella, Shigella and Kluyvera. The finding of Kluyvera spp. in crows in our current study highlights its zoonotic potential in an urban setting.}, }
@article {pmid18942216, year = {2008}, author = {Neithercott, T}, title = {New game plan. Diagnosed just months ago, Denver Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler talks about how he's managing his diabetes.}, journal = {Diabetes forecast}, volume = {61}, number = {10}, pages = {80-83}, pmid = {18942216}, issn = {0095-8301}, mesh = {Adult ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/*rehabilitation ; *Football ; Humans ; Male ; }, }
@article {pmid18938168, year = {2009}, author = {Schoech, SJ and Rensel, MA and Bridge, ES and Boughton, RK and Wilcoxen, TE}, title = {Environment, glucocorticoids, and the timing of reproduction.}, journal = {General and comparative endocrinology}, volume = {163}, number = {1-2}, pages = {201-207}, doi = {10.1016/j.ygcen.2008.09.009}, pmid = {18938168}, issn = {1095-6840}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/blood/*physiology ; *Environment ; Female ; Glucocorticoids/*blood ; Male ; Reproduction/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Glucocorticoids mediate glucose availability under stressful and non-stressful conditions and, therefore, are essential for life. However, data across taxa demonstrate that chronic or elevated secretion of corticosterone or cortisol (CORT) can have negative effects at many levels and can trigger physiological or behavioral responses that may delay or, even halt reproduction. We present a brief overview of the effects that glucocorticoids, primarily the avian form, corticosterone, can have on the reproductive axis. Considerable data have demonstrated that environmental perturbations can result in elevated CORT levels that alter a bird's investment in current reproduction. Studies in our laboratory have shown a link between CORT and timing of reproduction in Florida scrub-jays: in "bad" years, clutch initiation dates are positively correlated with baseline CORT levels of female breeders. Also, population-level differences in CORT levels may explain timing of reproduction as lower CORT levels in suburban-dwelling jays are coupled with early breeding. Most research on stress and CORT concentrates on transient effects of CORT secretion. However, developmental CORT exposure, either from the yolk or embryo, may have long-term effects upon adult phenotype. For example, CORT levels in nestling scrub-jays predicts later 'personality,' as levels were highly correlated (r(2)=0.84) with fearfulness at 7 months of age. One can imagine that such 'personality' traits might also translate into differential success in gaining a territory or a mate. While speculative, it may be that early CORT exposure effectively programs adult behaviors that have wide ranging effects, including upon reproduction.}, }
@article {pmid18929671, year = {2008}, author = {Dumbacher, JP and Deiner, K and Thompson, L and Fleischer, RC}, title = {Phylogeny of the avian genus Pitohui and the evolution of toxicity in birds.}, journal = {Molecular phylogenetics and evolution}, volume = {49}, number = {3}, pages = {774-781}, doi = {10.1016/j.ympev.2008.09.018}, pmid = {18929671}, issn = {1095-9513}, mesh = {Animals ; Bayes Theorem ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Feathers ; Genes, Mitochondrial ; Likelihood Functions ; Markov Chains ; Mitochondria/genetics ; Monte Carlo Method ; Neurotoxins/*genetics ; New Guinea ; Palau ; Passeriformes/classification/*genetics ; *Phylogeny ; Pigmentation ; Sequence Alignment ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Bird species in the avian genus Pitohui contain potent neurotoxic alkaloids that may be used for defense. The genus comprises multiple species that are endemic to New Guinea and were presumed to belong to the family Pachycephalidae or Colluricinclidae, within the core corvoidea, an ancient Australasian radiation of crow-like birds. In order to understand the evolution of toxicity within the genus Pitohui, we sequenced three mitochondrial and two nuclear gene segments and reconstructed a phylogeny of the genus Pitohui and its putative relatives. We show that the genus Pitohui is polyphyletic, and consists of five different lineages. Using Bayesian ancestral state reconstruction, we estimate that toxicity likely evolved multiple times within this group. Furthermore, because the morphological and behavioral similarity among these poisonous birds appears to have evolved convergently, we hypothesize that this may be a possible example of Müllerian mimicry in birds. The Morningbird of Palau, Micronesia, that has often been included in the genus Pitohui, actually belongs in the genus Pachycephala and offers an intriguing case of pronounced evolution on a remote oceanic island.}, }
@article {pmid18855013, year = {2009}, author = {Kutkiene, L and Prakas, P and Sruoga, A and Butkauskas, D}, title = {Sarcocystis in the birds family Corvidae with description of Sarcocystis cornixi sp. nov. from the hooded crow (Corvus cornix).}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {104}, number = {2}, pages = {329-336}, pmid = {18855013}, issn = {0932-0113}, mesh = {Animals ; Cluster Analysis ; Crows/*parasitology ; DNA, Protozoan/chemistry/genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal/chemistry/genetics ; Microscopy ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Parasitic Diseases, Animal/*parasitology ; Phylogeny ; Prevalence ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 28S/genetics ; Sarcocystis/*classification/cytology/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Sarcocystosis/parasitology/*veterinary ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Sequence Homology, Nucleic Acid ; Vacuoles/parasitology/ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {Having studied 67 birds of six species of the family Corvidae, Sarcocystis cysts were found in 16 (23.9%) individuals belonging to three species. The highest prevalence of infection (35.9%) was determined in the hooded crow (Corvus cornix). Two types of sarcocysts, which were temporarily called cysts type I and type V, were determined in the corvids examined. By light microscope, type I cyst wall seemed to be thin (< 1.0 microm) and smooth. Banana shaped cystozoites measured 6.0-8.0 microm in length. By light microscope, type V cyst wall seemed striated and reached up to 2.5 microm. Banana shaped cystozoites measured 6.1-7.9 x 1.4-1.8 microm. Ultrastructurally, the cyst wall amounted to 2.1 microm and had stump-like protrusions that differed greatly in size and shape. The parasitophorous vacuolar membrane had indentations and clearly visible (up to 0.2 microm in length) microprojections, which also differed considerably in size and shape. The ultrastructure of type V cyst wall differed from all those Sarcocystis spp. described thus far. On the basis of this-Sarcocystis cornixi sp. nov.-is proposed for this type of sarcocysts. Partial sequences of 18S rRNA and 28S rRNA genes were determined for this species and a phylogenetic analysis of the Sarcocystidae family was performed. In the phylogenetic tree, S. cornixi is grouped together with Frenkelia microti, F. glareoli, S. muris, S. neurona and the unnamed Sarcocystis species whose intermediate hosts are birds. S. cornixi is the most closely related to Sarcocystis sp. (cyst type I) from the white-fronted geese.}, }
@article {pmid18848946, year = {2009}, author = {Hosokawa, N and Chiba, A}, title = {Embryonic and posthatching treatments with sex steroids demasculinize the motivational aspects of crowing behavior in male Japanese quail.}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {55}, number = {1}, pages = {139-148}, doi = {10.1016/j.yhbeh.2008.09.005}, pmid = {18848946}, issn = {1095-6867}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Body Weight/drug effects ; Cloaca/drug effects/growth &amp; development ; Coturnix/embryology/*physiology ; Dihydrotestosterone/*pharmacology ; Estradiol/*analogs &amp; derivatives/pharmacology ; Female ; Male ; Organ Size/drug effects ; Sexual Behavior, Animal/*drug effects ; Stress, Psychological ; Testis/drug effects/growth &amp; development ; Testosterone Propionate/*pharmacology ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Demasculinizing action of embryonic estrogen on crowing behavior in male Japanese quails was examined. Eggs were treated with either 20 microg of estradiol benzoate (EB) or vehicle on the 10th day of incubation. Chicks hatched from both groups of eggs were injected daily with either testosterone propionate (TP; 10 microg/g b.w.), 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT, a non-aromatizable androgen; 10 microg/g b.w.), or vehicle from 11 to 50 days after hatching, and during this period their calling behaviors were observed. Irrespective of embryonic treatments, all birds received posthatching treatment with either TP or DHT, but not with vehicle, emitted crows in place of distress calls in a stress (non-sexual) context of being isolated in a recording chamber. The posthatching TP, but not posthatching DHT, induced crowing in a sexual context (crowing in their home-cages) from much earlier age than posthatching vehicle in the birds received control embryonic treatment with vehicle. The same TP treatment, however, completely eliminated the crowing in a sexual context in the birds received EB during their embryonic life. In the birds treated with either posthatching DHT or posthatching vehicle, the crowing in a sexual context was only slightly decreased by embryonic EB treatment. These data suggest that posthatching estrogen, derived from testosterone aromatization, enhances the demasculinizing action of embryonic estrogen, and thus strongly reduces the sexual motivation for crowing behavior. This demasculinizing action, however, would not influence vocal control system which generates acoustic pattern of crowing in the presence of androgens allowing the birds to crow in a non-sexual context.}, }
@article {pmid18845015, year = {2009}, author = {O'Donovan, MC and Craddock, N and Owen, MJ}, title = {Strong evidence for multiple psychosis susceptibility genes - a rejoinder to Crow.}, journal = {Psychological medicine}, volume = {39}, number = {1}, pages = {170-171}, doi = {10.1017/S0033291708004583}, pmid = {18845015}, issn = {0033-2917}, mesh = {Bipolar Disorder/genetics/psychology ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease/*genetics/psychology ; Humans ; Psychotic Disorders/*genetics/psychology ; Schizophrenia/genetics ; Schizophrenic Psychology ; }, }
@article {pmid18835075, year = {2009}, author = {Eslinger, PJ and Blair, C and Wang, J and Lipovsky, B and Realmuto, J and Baker, D and Thorne, S and Gamson, D and Zimmerman, E and Rohrer, L and Yang, QX}, title = {Developmental shifts in fMRI activations during visuospatial relational reasoning.}, journal = {Brain and cognition}, volume = {69}, number = {1}, pages = {1-10}, pmid = {18835075}, issn = {1090-2147}, support = {R01 EB000454/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; 1-R01-EB00454-01A1/EB/NIBIB NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Age Factors ; Brain/*growth &amp; development/*physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; Linear Models ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Problem Solving/physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {To investigate maturational plasticity of fluid cognition systems, functional brain imaging was undertaken in healthy 8-19 year old participants while completing visuospatial relational reasoning problems similar to Raven's matrices and current elementary grade math textbooks. Analyses revealed that visuospatial relational reasoning across this developmental age range recruited activations in the superior parietal cortices most prominently, the dorsolateral prefrontal, occipital-temporal, and premotor/supplementary cortices, the basal ganglia, and insula. There were comparable activity volumes in left and right hemispheres for nearly all of these regions. Regression analyses indicated increasing activity predominantly in the superior parietal lobes with developmental age. In contrast, multiple anterior neural systems showed significantly less activity with age, including dorsolateral and ventrolateral prefrontal, paracentral, and insula cortices bilaterally, basal ganglia, and particularly large clusters in the midline anterior cingulate/medial frontal cortex, left middle cingulate/supplementary motor cortex, left insula-putamen, and left caudate. Findings suggest that neuromaturational changes associated with visuospatial relational reasoning shift from a more widespread fronto-cingulate-striatal pattern in childhood to predominant parieto-frontal activation pattern in late adolescence.}, }
@article {pmid18833801, year = {2008}, author = {Wernham, CV and Etheridge, B and Holling, M and Riddle, G and Riley, HT and Stirling-Aird, PK and Stroud, D and Thompson, DB and Wilson, JD}, title = {The Scottish Raptor Monitoring Scheme: objectives, achievements in the first four years, and plans for future development.}, journal = {Ambio}, volume = {37}, number = {6}, pages = {460-465}, doi = {10.1579/0044-7447(2008)37[463:tsrmso]2.0.co;2}, pmid = {18833801}, issn = {0044-7447}, mesh = {Animals ; *Conservation of Natural Resources/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/methods/trends ; Environmental Monitoring/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/*methods ; Extinction, Biological ; Falconiformes/*growth &amp; development ; Government Programs ; Population Dynamics ; Scotland ; }, abstract = {The Scottish Raptor Monitoring Scheme (SRMS) comprises 7 partner organizations and was established in 2002 after i) the publication of the UK Government's Raptor Working Group Report that made recommendations for enhanced monitoring, ii) increased applied data needs (e.g., for site designation), and iii) concerns for the status of some species. The SRMS has 3 major objectives: i) to facilitate cooperation between parties; ii) to provide robust information on Scottish raptor populations by determining trends in numbers, range, survival, and productivity and understanding the causes of change; and iii) to maintain high and uniform standards for the collection, collation, auditing, and analysis of data and reporting of information. Data are collected for 19 species: 14 diurnal raptors, 4 owls, and 1 corvid, the Common Raven. Here we describe the development of the scheme, challenges, and achievements during its first 4 y, the nature and value of the data collected, and plans for the future.}, }
@article {pmid18833798, year = {2008}, author = {Movalli, P and Lo Valvo, M and Pereira, MG and Osborn, D}, title = {Organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyl congeners in lanner Falco biarmicus feldeggli Schlegel chicks and lanner prey in Sicily, Italy.}, journal = {Ambio}, volume = {37}, number = {6}, pages = {445-451}, doi = {10.1579/0044-7447(2008)37[445:opapbc]2.0.co;2}, pmid = {18833798}, issn = {0044-7447}, mesh = {Animals ; Conservation of Natural Resources/*methods ; Environmental Monitoring/*methods ; Environmental Pollutants/*blood/toxicity ; Extinction, Biological ; Falconiformes/*blood/growth &amp; development ; Food Chain ; Hydrocarbons, Chlorinated/*blood/toxicity ; Models, Biological ; Polychlorinated Biphenyls/blood/toxicity ; Population Dynamics ; Reproduction/*drug effects ; Sicily ; }, abstract = {This paper reports on research conducted to elucidate the risk posed to the Sicilian population of the endangered lanner falcon Falco biarmicus feldeggii Schlegel by organochlorine (OC) pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), as part of a wider study on contaminant risk to the lanner. Seventeen lanner nest sites were studied in northern and central Sicily. Sampling (in 2005) and analysis were carried out for selected OC pesticides and PCB congeners in lanner chick blood (15 chicks from 6 nest sites) and in two of the main lanner prey species, magpie Pica pica (36 individuals from 6 lanner nest sites) and rock dove Columba livia (10 individuals from 2 lanner nest sites). No OC and PCB residues were found in lanner chick blood above the detection limits, except for one solitary congener PCB153 (21.8 ng g(-1) wet weight), suggesting that these contaminants do not pose a significant risk to lanner chicks in the study area. Magpie and dove appeared mostly free of contamination with OC pesticides, though contamination levels were significantly higher in magpie than in dove. The presence of exceptional DDE and HEOD values in approximately 8% of the P. pica sample, and one P. pica sample showing recent DDT contamination, may indicate a local OC pesticide hazard to some lanner. Future research to further elucidate the contaminant risk to lanner in Sicily is suggested.}, }
@article {pmid18831684, year = {2009}, author = {Emery, NJ and Clayton, NS}, title = {Comparative social cognition.}, journal = {Annual review of psychology}, volume = {60}, number = {}, pages = {87-113}, doi = {10.1146/annurev.psych.60.110707.163526}, pmid = {18831684}, issn = {0066-4308}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Agonistic Behavior ; Animals ; Appetitive Behavior ; Association Learning ; *Cognition ; Competitive Behavior ; Cooperative Behavior ; Crows ; Dogs/psychology ; Ethology ; Human-Animal Bond ; Humans ; Mental Recall ; Pan troglodytes/psychology ; *Personal Construct Theory ; *Social Behavior ; Socialization ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Theory of mind is said to be uniquely human. Is this statement justified? Thirty years of research on a variety of species has produced differences in opinion, from unequivocal positive evidence to no evidence at all for mental attribution in animals. Our review concludes that animals are excellent ethologists, but on the whole, poor psychologists. Those studies that we believe present a good case for mental attribution all possess high ecological validity, including studies on food competition by chimpanzees and cache-protection strategies by corvids. Even though the current focus of research on prediction rather than explanation may be misplaced, we believe the field is now in a strong position to discover what animals really know about their fellow beings, be it based on simple associations, behavior reading, mind reading, or something else.}, }
@article {pmid18826659, year = {2009}, author = {Gewa, CA and Weiss, RE and Bwibo, NO and Whaley, S and Sigman, M and Murphy, SP and Harrison, G and Neumann, CG}, title = {Dietary micronutrients are associated with higher cognitive function gains among primary school children in rural Kenya.}, journal = {The British journal of nutrition}, volume = {101}, number = {9}, pages = {1378-1387}, doi = {10.1017/S0007114508066804}, pmid = {18826659}, issn = {1475-2662}, mesh = {Anthropometry ; Child ; Child Development/physiology ; Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena/physiology ; Cognition/*drug effects/physiology ; *Developing Countries ; *Dietary Supplements ; Eating/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Kenya ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Micronutrients/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Rural Health/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Social Class ; }, abstract = {With the exception of iodine and Fe, there is still very limited information on the effect of micronutrients on cognitive function, especially among school-age children. The present analysis evaluates the relationship between dietary Fe, Zn and B vitamins (B12, B6, folate and riboflavin) and gains in cognitive test scores among school children in rural Kenya. Data for the present study were obtained from The Child Nutrition Kenya Project, a 2-year longitudinal, randomised controlled feeding intervention study using animal source foods. Dietary nutrient values were based on monthly and bimonthly 24 h recall data collected during the study period. In longitudinal regression analyses, available Fe, available Zn, vitamin B12 and riboflavin showed significant relationships with improved cognitive test scores, after controlling for confounders such as energy intake, school, socio-economic status and morbidity. Available Fe intake was associated with significantly higher gains in Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices test scores over time. Available Zn intake was associated with significantly higher gains in digit span-total test scores over time, while vitamin B12 and riboflavin intakes were each associated with significantly higher gains in digit span-forward test scores over time. This analysis demonstrates the influence of improved dietary micronutrient status on school children's cognitive function.}, }
@article {pmid18825938, year = {2008}, author = {Pleskacheva, MG}, title = {[Behavior and spatial learning in birds in radial maze].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {58}, number = {4}, pages = {389-407}, pmid = {18825938}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Birds/*physiology ; Maze Learning/*physiology ; Space Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Studies of spatial learning and memory of birds in radial maze are reviewed. The radial maze variants (standard, giant and open-field analog) are described; procedural problems of bird testing are discussed. Radial maze task performance of birds is compared with that of laboratory rats as a well-studied standard. Specific features of spatial learning in various taxonomic avian groups (pigeon, tits, corvids, chickens and others) are considered. The results of spatial memory studies in closely-related species with different ecology (food storing behavior, degree of caching specialization) and experiments with migrant birds and homing pigeons are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid18825168, year = {2008}, author = {Ye, T and Yan, C and Lu, Y and Liu, F and Su, Y}, title = {All-optical regenerative NRZ-to-RZ format conversion using coupled ring-resonator optical waveguide.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {16}, number = {20}, pages = {15325-15331}, doi = {10.1364/oe.16.015325}, pmid = {18825168}, issn = {1094-4087}, abstract = {This paper proposes a scheme for format conversion from a distorted non-return-to-zero (NRZ) signal to a high-quality return-to-zero (RZ) signal, using the nonlinearity in a coupled ring-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) on a silicon chip. In this method, a distorted NRZ signal is amplified and fed into the CROW together with an RZ pulse train. The CROW performs as a nonlinear step gate for the RZ pulse train, which outputs amplitude-equalized RZ pulses inheriting the information from the NRZ signal. Clearly, the integration of the format conversion and regeneration simplifies the system. Our simulations performed at 10 Gb/s and 40 Gb/s verify the feasibility of our proposal.}, }
@article {pmid18820664, year = {2009}, author = {de Vreeze, RS and de Jong, D and Tielen, IH and Ruijter, HJ and Nederlof, PM and Haas, RL and van Coevorden, F}, title = {Primary retroperitoneal myxoid/round cell liposarcoma is a nonexisting disease: an immunohistochemical and molecular biological analysis.}, journal = {Modern pathology : an official journal of the United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology, Inc}, volume = {22}, number = {2}, pages = {223-231}, doi = {10.1038/modpathol.2008.164}, pmid = {18820664}, issn = {1530-0285}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Calmodulin-Binding Proteins/genetics ; Cell Differentiation ; Chromosomes, Human, Pair 12 ; Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 4/analysis/genetics ; Female ; Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic ; Humans ; *Immunohistochemistry ; Liposarcoma, Myxoid/chemistry/classification/genetics/*pathology/therapy ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/genetics ; *Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-mdm2/analysis/genetics ; RNA-Binding Protein EWS ; RNA-Binding Protein FUS/genetics ; RNA-Binding Proteins/genetics ; Retroperitoneal Neoplasms/chemistry/classification/genetics/*pathology/therapy ; Terminology as Topic ; Transcription Factor CHOP/genetics ; Translocation, Genetic ; }, abstract = {Almost all primary retroperitoneal liposarcomas can be classified as well-/dedifferentiated liposarcoma. Rarely, however, primary retroperitoneal liposarcoma is classified as myxoid/round cell liposarcoma, based on the presence of myxoid areas and vascular crow's feet pattern, which has resulted in a debate on the classification of liposarcoma in the retroperitoneum. Genetically, myxoid/round cell liposarcoma and well-/dedifferentiated liposarcoma are different diseases. Myxoid/round cell liposarcoma is characterized by a translocation causing FUS-CHOP or EWSR1-CHOP fusion, whereas well-/dedifferentiated liposarcoma is characterized by an amplification of the 12q13-15 region, including MDM2 and CDK4 genes. As myxoid/round cell liposarcoma is highly radio- and chemosensitive, differentiation between subtypes is important to optimize treatment. We studied whether primary retroperitoneal liposarcomas diagnosed as myxoid/round cell liposarcoma represent molecularly true myxoid/round cell liposarcoma or are histopathological mimics and represent well-/dedifferentiated liposarcoma. Primary retroperitoneal myxoid/round cell liposarcoma (n=16) were compared to primary extremity myxoid/round cell liposarcoma (n=20). Histopathological and immunohistochemical features were studied. Amplification status of the 12q13-15 region was studied using a multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification analysis, and FUS-CHOP or EWS-CHOP translocations were studied using RT-PCR. In primary retroperitoneal myxoid/round cell liposarcoma, MDM2 and CDK4 staining was both positive in 12 of 15 cases. In primary extremity myxoid/round cell liposarcoma, MDM2 was negative in 18/20 and CDK4 was negative in all cases. Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification showed the amplification of 12q13-15 region in 16/16 primary retroperitoneal myxoid/round cell liposarcomas and in 1/20 primary extremity myxoid/round cell liposarcomas. Translocation was present in all (18/18) primary extremity myxoid/round cell liposarcomas, but absent in all primary retroperitoneal myxoid/round cell liposarcomas. On the basis of immunohistochemical and molecular characteristics, apparent primary retroperitoneal myxoid/round cell liposarcoma can be recognized as well-/dedifferentiated liposarcoma with morphological features mimicking myxoid/round cell liposarcoma. In these cases, treatment should probably be specifically designed as for well-/dedifferentiated liposarcoma. Moreover, finding of myxoid/round cell liposarcoma translocations in a retroperitoneal localization is highly suggestive of metastasis and should prompt search for a primary localization outside the retroperitoneum.}, }
@article {pmid18812007, year = {2009}, author = {Kubota, Y and Toichi, M and Shimizu, M and Mason, RA and Findling, RL and Yamamoto, K and Hayashi, T and Calabrese, JR}, title = {Altered prefrontal lobe oxygenation in bipolar disorder: a study by near-infrared spectroscopy.}, journal = {Psychological medicine}, volume = {39}, number = {8}, pages = {1265-1275}, pmid = {18812007}, issn = {1469-8978}, support = {P20 MH066054/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; P20 MH-66054/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Arousal/physiology ; Attention/physiology ; Bipolar Disorder/diagnosis/*physiopathology/psychology ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/physiopathology/psychology ; Dominance, Cerebral/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Oxygen Consumption/*physiology ; Oxyhemoglobins/metabolism ; Prefrontal Cortex/*blood supply/physiopathology ; Psychometrics ; Reference Values ; *Spectroscopy, Near-Infrared ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Previous studies have reported prefrontal cortex (PFC) pathophysiology in bipolar disorder.<br><br>METHOD: We examined the hemodynamics of the PFC during resting and cognitive tasks in 29 patients with bipolar disorder and 27 healthy controls, matched for age, verbal abilities and education. The cognitive test battery consisted of letter and category fluency (LF and CF), Sets A and B of the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM-A and RCPM-B) and the letter cancellation test (LCT). The tissue oxygenation index (TOI), the ratio of oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO2) concentration to total hemoglobin concentration, was measured in the bilateral PFC by spatially resolved near-infrared spectroscopy. Changes in HbO2 concentration were also measured.<br><br>RESULTS: The bipolar group showed slight but significant impairment in performance for the non-verbal tasks (RCPM-A, RCPM-B and LCT), with no significant between-group differences for the two verbal tasks (LF and CF). A group x task x hemisphere analysis of variance (ANOVA) on the TOI revealed an abnormal pattern of prefrontal oxygenation across different types of cognitive processing in the bipolar group. Post hoc analyses following a group x task x hemisphere ANOVA on HbO2 concentration revealed that the bipolar group showed a greater increase in HbO2 concentration in the LCT and in RCPM-B, relative to controls.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Both indices of cortical activation (TOI and HbO2 concentration) indicated a discrepancy in the PFC function between verbal versus non-verbal processing, indicating task-specific abnormalities in the hemodynamic control of the PFC in bipolar disorder.}, }
@article {pmid18811660, year = {2009}, author = {López-Sepulcre, A and Norris, K and Kokko, H}, title = {Reproductive conflict delays the recovery of an endangered social species.}, journal = {The Journal of animal ecology}, volume = {78}, number = {1}, pages = {219-225}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2656.2008.01475.x}, pmid = {18811660}, issn = {1365-2656}, mesh = {Animals ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; Extinction, Biological ; Female ; Male ; Population Growth ; Reproduction/*physiology ; Sexual Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Seychelles ; *Social Dominance ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {1. Evolutionary theory predicts that individuals, in order to increase their relative fitness, can evolve behaviours that are detrimental for the group or population. This mismatch is particularly visible in social organisms. Despite its potential to affect the population dynamics of social animals, this principle has not yet been applied to real-life conservation. 2. Social group structure has been argued to stabilize population dynamics due to the buffering effects of nonreproducing subordinates. However, competition for breeding positions in such species can also interfere with the reproduction of breeding pairs. 3. Seychelles magpie robins, Copsychus sechellarum, live in social groups where subordinate individuals do not breed. Analysis of long-term individual-based data and short-term behavioural observations show that subordinates increase the territorial takeover frequency of established breeders. Such takeovers delay offspring production and decrease territory productivity. 4. Individual-based simulations of the Seychelles magpie robin population parameterized with the long-term data show that this process has significantly postponed the recovery of the species from the Critically Endangered status. 5. Social conflict thus can extend the period of high extinction risk, which we show to have population consequences that should be taken into account in management programmes. This is the first quantitative assessment of the effects of social conflict on conservation.}, }
@article {pmid18807883, year = {2008}, author = {Hashimoto, R and Kashiwagi, M and Suzuki, S}, title = {[Attempt for development of rapid word reading test for children--evaluation of reliability and validity].}, journal = {No to hattatsu = Brain and development}, volume = {40}, number = {5}, pages = {363-369}, pmid = {18807883}, issn = {0029-0831}, mesh = {Child ; Dyslexia/*diagnosis ; Humans ; Male ; *Reading ; }, abstract = {We developed a rapid word reading test for examining the phonological processing ability of Japanese children. We prepared two versions of the test, version A and B. Each test has word and non-word tasks. Twenty-two healthy boys of third grade in primary schools participated in this validation study. For criterion related validity, we performed the serial Hiragana reading test, the sentence reading test, Raven's coloured progressive matrices (RCPM), the Token test for children, the Kana word dictation test, the standardized comprehension test of abstract words (SCTAW), and Trail Circle test. The reading times of the newly developed test correlated moderately or highly with those of the serial Hiragana reading test and the sentence reading test. However, the scores of the other tests (RCPM, Token test for children, Kana word dictation test, SCTAW, Trail Circle test) did not correlated with the reading time of the rapid word reading test. Test-retest reliabilities in the word tasks were more than moderate: 0.52 and 0.76 in versions A and B, while those in the non-word tasks were high: 0.91 and 0.88 in versions A and B. The correlation coefficient between versions A and B was 0.7 for the word tasks and 0.92 for the non-word tasks. This study showed that the rapid word reading test has substantial validity and reliability for testing the phonological processing ability of Japanese children. In addition, the non-word tasks were more suitable for selectively examining the speed of the grapheme to phoneme conversion process.}, }
@article {pmid18805304, year = {2008}, author = {Rafai, MA and Fadel, H and Boulaajaj, FZ and Sibai, M and Rafai, M and El Moutawakkil, B and Bourezgui, M and Trafeh, M and Slassi, I}, title = {[POEMS syndrome with plasmocytoma lytic bone lesion].}, journal = {Revue neurologique}, volume = {164}, number = {8-9}, pages = {722-727}, doi = {10.1016/j.neurol.2007.11.001}, pmid = {18805304}, issn = {0035-3787}, mesh = {Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use ; Bone Neoplasms/*complications/*pathology/therapy ; Electrodiagnosis ; Humans ; Immunoglobulin G/immunology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Motor Neurons/physiology ; Neural Conduction ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications/*pathology/therapy ; Plasmacytoma/*complications/*pathology/therapy ; Radiotherapy ; Steroids/therapeutic use ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Crow-Fukase or Polyneuropathy, Organomegaly, Endocrinopathy, M-protein, and Skin changes syndrome (POEMS) is a rare multisystemic affection with incompletely elucidated etiopathogenesis.<br><br>CASE REPORT: We report a case of POEMS syndrome in a 48-year-old adult revealed four months before admission by areflexic flask tetraparesis prevalent on the lower limbs in connection with demyelinating and axonal CIDP "like" sensoriomotor neuropathy of the four limbs electroneuromyographically. The patient presented elevated protein level in the CSF with monoclonal standard IgG gammapathy associated with a narrow band lambda, suggesting POEMS syndrome. Further explorations revealed skin lesions with glomeruloid angiomas, edematous vasomotor disorders as well as erythrocyanose, hypogonadism, papillar edema and a lytic bone lesion of the left scapula. Radiotherapy was associated with corticosteroids and plasma exchanges. Outcome was good with resolution of the symptoms and stabilization of the neuropathy.<br><br>DISCUSSION: POEMS syndrome is rare; the diagnosis is based on necessary criteria, the presence of a demyelinating and axonal polyneuropathy associated with an IgA or IgG monoclonal gammapathy, the light chain being almost entirely lambda, associated to other characteristic elements, in particular glomeruloid angiomas, endocrinopathy, sclerosing plasmocytoma which must be carefully required. Treatment is based on surgical cure or radiotherapy for bone lesion and non specific treatments such as corticosteroid therapy, plasma exchanges and IVIG.}, }
@article {pmid18801831, year = {2010}, author = {Craig, L and Fisk, JE and Montgomery, C and Murphy, PN and Wareing, M}, title = {Is emotional intelligence impaired in ecstasy-polydrug users?.}, journal = {Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England)}, volume = {24}, number = {2}, pages = {221-231}, doi = {10.1177/0269881108095713}, pmid = {18801831}, issn = {1461-7285}, mesh = {Affect/drug effects ; Analysis of Variance ; Emotional Intelligence/*drug effects ; Female ; Hallucinogens/*toxicity ; Humans ; Male ; Marijuana Abuse/complications ; N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine/*toxicity ; Parenting ; Regression Analysis ; Substance-Related Disorders/*complications ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Previous findings report use of the drug ecstasy (MDMA) to be associated with lower emotional intelligence (EI), and compromised functioning in brain areas responsible for emotion. This study explored the relationship between ecstasy use, EI, mood and parenting styles. Questionnaire measures of drug use, lifestyle, parenting style and EI were obtained, with separate IQ measures for fluid intelligence (Ravens matrices) and pre-morbid intelligence [National Adult Reading Test (NART)]. Current mood measures were obtained from an adjective checklist. The sample comprised 78 ecstasy/polydrug users, 38 cannabis only users and 34 non-drug users. Drug use was categorised at three levels (non-user, cannabis-only user and ecstasy-polydrug user). Factorial ANOVA using drug use as an independent variable showed no significant group effects in EI. EI showed significant correlations with current mood that were positive for arousal and negative for both anxiety and depression. EI was also significantly and positively correlated with the perceived degree of parental control. Regression analyses showed that these relationships remained significant after controlling for differences in IQ, age, gender, and ecstasy use. Adverse mood effects specifically associated with ecstasy use were significantly related to lower EI, and were independent of IQ, age and gender. Higher EI was significantly associated with ecstasy-related precautions used when taking this drug. Contrary to earlier findings, ecstasy-polydrug users did not differ from non-users on EI. However, self-reported ecstasy-related mood disturbances were related to lower EI, with the compromising of orbitofrontal cortical functioning being possible here.}, }
@article {pmid18796393, year = {2009}, author = {Taylor, AH and Hunt, GR and Medina, FS and Gray, RD}, title = {Do new caledonian crows solve physical problems through causal reasoning?.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {276}, number = {1655}, pages = {247-254}, pmid = {18796393}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {The extent to which animals other than humans can reason about physical problems is contentious. The benchmark test for this ability has been the trap-tube task. We presented New Caledonian crows with a series of two-trap versions of this problem. Three out of six crows solved the initial trap-tube. These crows continued to avoid the trap when the arbitrary features that had previously been associated with successful performances were removed. However, they did not avoid the trap when a hole and a functional trap were in the tube. In contrast to a recent primate study, the three crows then solved a causally equivalent but visually distinct problem--the trap-table task. The performance of the three crows across the four transfers made explanations based on chance, associative learning, visual and tactile generalization, and previous dispositions unlikely. Our findings suggest that New Caledonian crows can solve complex physical problems by reasoning both causally and analogically about causal relations. Causal and analogical reasoning may form the basis of the New Caledonian crow's exceptional tool skills.}, }
@article {pmid18791901, year = {2008}, author = {Bierman, EJ and Comijs, HC and Rijmen, F and Jonker, C and Beekman, AT}, title = {Anxiety symptoms and cognitive performance in later life: results from the longitudinal aging study Amsterdam.}, journal = {Aging &amp; mental health}, volume = {12}, number = {4}, pages = {517-523}, doi = {10.1080/13607860802224276}, pmid = {18791901}, issn = {1364-6915}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*psychology ; Anxiety/etiology/*physiopathology ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Interviews as Topic ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Netherlands ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study investigates whether, and if so how, anxiety symptoms are related to cognitive decline in elderly persons and whether anxiety symptoms precede cognitive decline.<br><br>METHOD: Data were obtained from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam. Anxiety symptoms were measured with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. General cognitive functioning was measured with the Mini-Mental State Examination, episodic memory with the Auditory Verbal Learning Test, fluid intelligence with the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices and information processing speed with the coding task. Multilevel analyses were performed to investigate the relationship between anxiety symptoms and cognitive decline over 9 years, taking into account confounding variables.<br><br>RESULTS: Although not consistent across all dimensions of cognitive functioning, a curvilinear effect of anxiety on cognitive performance was found. Furthermore, we found that previous measurement of anxiety symptoms were not predictive of cognitive decline at a later time-point.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study suggests that the effect of anxiety on cognition depends on the severity of the present anxiety symptoms with mild anxiety associated with better cognition, whereas more severe anxiety is associated with worse cognition. The effect of anxiety symptoms on cognitive functioning seems to be a temporary effect, anxiety is not predictive of cognitive decline.}, }
@article {pmid18791878, year = {2008}, author = {Yalçin, K and Karakaş, S}, title = {[Change with age of information processing meta-operations in children].}, journal = {Turk psikiyatri dergisi = Turkish journal of psychiatry}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {257-265}, pmid = {18791878}, issn = {1300-2163}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Age Factors ; Aging/physiology/*psychology ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Pattern Recognition, Visual/physiology ; Principal Component Analysis ; Problem Solving/physiology ; Sex Factors ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine meta-systems of cognition and their development,and the pattern of relationships between types of information processing, executive functions, mental ability, and level of cognitive development in children.<br><br>METHOD: The sample consisted of 80 healthy children (39 female and 41 male). Meta-cognition was measured with the Word List and Evaluation of the Degree of Correctness of Knowledge, Feeling of Knowing, and Criterion Test. Executive functions were assessed using the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) and the TBAG form of the Stroop Test. Mental ability was assessed using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM). Level of cognitive development was assessed using the Logical Reasoning Test (LRT).<br><br>RESULTS: MANOVA and correlation analyses showed that meta-memory, executive functions, mental ability, and level of cognitive development increased up to the age of 11 years. There were low correlations between executive function and meta-memory test scores, and LRT. There was a low correlation between meta-cognition score and LRT score. There was a low to medium correlation between meta-cognition score and RSPM score. Principal component analysis showed that by 11 years of age, cognitive patterns in the children began to resemble those of adults.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The study showed that the cognitive structure of the children was different from that of adults, as executive functions and meta-cognitive processes in children were similar, but not identical. These processes did not entirely match the Piagetian stages of cognitive development. The results of this study are discussed within the context of the related literature.}, }
@article {pmid18787012, year = {2008}, author = {Daidoji, T and Koma, T and Du, A and Yang, CS and Ueda, M and Ikuta, K and Nakaya, T}, title = {H5N1 avian influenza virus induces apoptotic cell death in mammalian airway epithelial cells.}, journal = {Journal of virology}, volume = {82}, number = {22}, pages = {11294-11307}, pmid = {18787012}, issn = {1098-5514}, mesh = {Animals ; *Apoptosis ; Caspases/metabolism ; Cell Line ; Cells, Cultured ; Chickens ; Cytopathogenic Effect, Viral ; Epithelial Cells/*virology ; Fibroblasts ; Humans ; In Situ Nick-End Labeling ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; Molecular Sequence Data ; RNA, Viral/genetics ; Respiratory Mucosa/*virology ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Swine ; }, abstract = {In recent years, the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 has raised serious worldwide concern about an influenza pandemic; however, the biology of H5N1 pathogenesis is largely unknown. To elucidate the mechanism of H5N1 pathogenesis, we prepared primary airway epithelial cells from alveolar tissues from 1-year-old pigs and measured the growth kinetics of three avian H5 influenza viruses (A/Crow/Kyoto/53/2004 [H5N1], A/Duck/Hong Kong/342/78 [H5N2], and A/Duck/Hong Kong/820/80 [H5N3]), the resultant cytopathicity, and possible associated mechanisms. H5N1, but not the other H5 viruses, strongly induced cell death in porcine alveolar epithelial cells (pAEpC), although all three viruses induced similar degrees of cytopathicity in chicken embryonic fibroblasts. Intracellular viral growth and the production of progeny viruses were comparable in pAEpC infected with each H5 virus. In contrast, terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling-positive cells were detected only in H5N1-infected pAEpC, and the activities of caspases 3, 8, and 9 were significantly elevated in pAEpC infected with H5N1, but not with H5N2 and H5N3. These results suggest that only H5N1 induces apoptosis in pAEpC. H5N1 cytopathicity was inhibited by adding the caspase inhibitor z-VAD-FMK; however, there were no significant differences in viral growth or release of progeny viruses. Further investigations using reverse genetics demonstrated that H5N1 hemagglutinin protein plays a critical role in inducing caspase-dependent apoptosis in infected pAEpC. H5N1-specific cytopathicity was also observed in human primary airway epithelial cells. Taken together, these data suggest that avian H5N1 influenza virus leads to substantial cell death in mammalian airway epithelial cells due to the induction of apoptosis.}, }
@article {pmid18783289, year = {2008}, author = {Sarkar, V and Stathakis, S and Papanikolaou, N}, title = {A Monte Carlo model for independent dose verification in serial tomotherapy.}, journal = {Technology in cancer research &amp; treatment}, volume = {7}, number = {5}, pages = {385-392}, doi = {10.1177/153303460800700506}, pmid = {18783289}, issn = {1533-0346}, mesh = {Computer Simulation ; Equipment Design ; Female ; Head and Neck Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Male ; Monte Carlo Method ; Prostatic Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Radiometry/methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated/*methods ; Reproducibility of Results ; Software ; }, abstract = {Due to the very high complexity of IMRT treatment plans, it is imperative to perform dose verification, preferably before patient delivery. The aim of this project is to develop a Monte-Carlo-based model to verify the final dose distributions of plans developed using the Peacock system (CORVUS Treatment Planning System and MIMiC collimator). The system delivers radiation through arc therapy and uses sinogram files to determine the state of each of the multileaf collimator leaves. In-house software was developed using Matlab to decode the sinograms and create blocklets that are used as input in an MCSIM model of the MIMiC collimator attached to a Varian Clinac 600C. After validating the model, a prostate and head and neck case were simulated. The CORVUS-predicted dose distributions were compared with the Monte Carlo dose distributions. As expected, the results agreed very closely for the homogeneous case of the prostate but there were large discrepancies observed for the more heterogeneous head and neck case.}, }
@article {pmid18773066, year = {2008}, author = {Rauws, EA and Kloek, JJ and Gouma, DJ and Van Gulik, TM}, title = {Staging of cholangiocarcinoma: the role of endoscopy.}, journal = {HPB : the official journal of the International Hepato Pancreato Biliary Association}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {110-112}, pmid = {18773066}, issn = {1365-182X}, abstract = {The main question for staging is resectability, which is reliant on vascular, longitudinal, and metastatic spread. Today, accurate staging of perihilar tumors is achieved by non-invasive diagnostic investigations. Direct cholangiography has been the gold standard as a diagnostic procedure in recent decades. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography (ERCP) often only shows the ducts below the obstruction, and visualization of an obstructed part of the biliary tree is often not possible. Direct cholangiography reveals no information about local tumor extension, lymph nodes, or vascular involvement. Because of the given limitations, potential complications (cholangitis, sepsis) associated with direct cholangiography and reduction of the accuracy of subsequent cross-sectional imaging studies, these invasive techniques should only be used in the case of palliative interventions. Endoscopic ultrasonography-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) can be used to assess the nature of biliary strictures and to derive information about the extent of periductal disease and the presence of lymph node metastases. In a study by Fritscher-Ravens, 44 patients with hilar strictures underwent EUS-FNA. The overall diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were 91% (95% CI, 78.4-96.3%), 89% (95% CI, 73.3-96.8%), 100% (95% CI, 63.1-100%), 100% (95% CI, 88.8-100%), and 67% (95% CI, 34.9-90%), respectively. The planned surgical approach was changed in 27 of 44 patients. In 15-20% of cholangiocarcinoma, patients with unremarkable abdominal imaging studies have metastatic lymph node involvement according to EUS evaluation. Due to the risk of peritoneal seeding, however, EUS with FNA is not recommended in patients still with a potential curative tumor.}, }
@article {pmid18771469, year = {2008}, author = {Park, BH and Lee, S and Park, JW and Kim, KA and Kim, HU and Lee, JH and Koh, DH and Youm, JH and Yoo, N and Park, SK and Kwon, KS}, title = {Facial wrinkles as a predictor of decreased renal function.}, journal = {Nephrology (Carlton, Vic.)}, volume = {13}, number = {6}, pages = {522-527}, doi = {10.1111/j.1440-1797.2008.00977.x}, pmid = {18771469}, issn = {1440-1797}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Face ; Female ; *Glomerular Filtration Rate ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {AIMS: Oxidative stress generated either by exogenous or endogenous sources can lead to progressive organ damage and skin ageing over a long period of time. Moreover, some dermatological signs are independent of chronological ageing, and may reflect the long-term redox state of internal organs. Therefore, we hypothesized that there might be an association between facial wrinkles and decreased renal function, an oxidative stress-related disease.<br><br>METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out in a Korean population of 264 adults aged 30 years and older. Facial wrinkle scores in the crow's-foot area were estimated using a standardized form of visual assessment. As an index of renal function, we determined estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Lipid hydroperoxide (LPO) assay was performed to measure the levels of oxidative stress.<br><br>RESULTS: After adjusting for possible confounders, lower eGFRs and higher LPO levels were found in those with severe facial wrinkles.<br><br>CONCLUSION: We conclude that severe facial wrinkles might be used as a predictive marker of decreased renal function, independently of age, gender and other established risk factors.}, }
@article {pmid18771034, year = {2008}, author = {Oparin, ML}, title = {[Recent fauna of ground-nesting birds in Transvolga steppes and its dynamics in the 20th century].}, journal = {Izvestiia Akademii nauk. Seriia biologicheskaia}, volume = {}, number = {4}, pages = {491-496}, pmid = {18771034}, issn = {1026-3470}, mesh = {Animal Migration/*physiology ; Animals ; *Birds ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; Ecosystem ; Forestry ; Nesting Behavior/*physiology ; Population Dynamics ; }, abstract = {It is shown that the structure of the ground-nesting bird fauna in Transvolga steppes has changed during the 20th century. The complex of lark species characteristic of true and dry steppe has disappeared because of climate change and impact of economic activity (the establishment of windbreak and roadside forest strips), which has provided for a sharp increase in the abundance of corvid birds.}, }
@article {pmid18766389, year = {2009}, author = {Schuck-Paim, C and Borsari, A and Ottoni, EB}, title = {Means to an end: neotropical parrots manage to pull strings to meet their goals.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {287-301}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-008-0190-z}, pmid = {18766389}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; *Concept Formation ; Female ; Male ; *Parrots ; *Problem Solving ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Although parrots share with corvids and primates many of the traits believed to be associated with advanced cognitive processing, knowledge of parrot cognition is still limited to a few species, none of which are Neotropical. Here we examine the ability of three Neotropical parrot species (Blue-Fronted Amazons, Hyacinth and Lear's macaws) to spontaneously solve a novel physical problem: the string-pulling test. The ability to pull up a string to obtain out-of-reach food has been often considered a cognitively complex task, as it requires the use of a sequence of actions never previously assembled, along with the ability to continuously monitor string, food and certain body movements. We presented subjects with pulling tasks where we varied the spatial relationship between the strings, the presence of a reward and the physical contact between the string and reward to determine whether (1) string-pulling is goal-oriented in these parrots, (2) whether the string is recognized as a means to obtain the reward and (3) whether subjects can visually determine the continuity between the string and the reward, selecting only those strings for which no physical gaps between string and reward were present. Our results show that some individuals of all species were able to use the string as a means to reach a specific goal, in this case, the retrieval of the food treat. Also, subjects from both macaw species were able to visually determine the presence of physical continuity between the string and reward, making their choices consistently with the recognition that no gaps should be present between the string and the reward. Our findings highlight the potential of this taxonomic group for the understanding of the underpinnings of cognition in evolutionarily distant groups such as birds and primates.}, }
@article {pmid18761282, year = {2008}, author = {Brysse, K}, title = {From weird wonders to stem lineages: the second reclassification of the Burgess Shale fauna.}, journal = {Studies in history and philosophy of biological and biomedical sciences}, volume = {39}, number = {3}, pages = {298-313}, doi = {10.1016/j.shpsc.2008.06.004}, pmid = {18761282}, issn = {1369-8486}, mesh = {Biological Evolution ; British Columbia ; *Cell Lineage ; *Fossils ; Geology ; Humans ; Paleontology ; }, abstract = {The Burgess Shale, a set of fossil beds containing the exquisitely preserved remains of marine invertebrate organisms from shortly after the Cambrian explosion, was discovered in 1909, and first brought to widespread popular attention by Stephen Jay Gould in his 1989 bestseller Wonderful life: The Burgess Shale and the nature of history. Gould contrasted the initial interpretation of these fossils, in which they were 'shoehorned' into modern groups, with the first major reexamination begun in the 1960s, when the creatures were perceived as 'weird wonders', possessing unique body plans and unrelated to modern organisms. More recently, a third phase of Burgess Shale studies has arisen, which has not yet been historically examined. This third phase represents a revolutionary new understanding, brought about, I believe, by a change in taxonomic methodology that led to a new perception of the Burgess creatures, and a new way to comprehend their relationships with modern organisms. The adoption of cladistics, and its corollary, the stem group concept, has forged a new understanding of the Burgess Shale ... but has it also changed the questions we are allowed to ask about evolution?}, }
@article {pmid18756811, year = {2008}, author = {L'vov, DK and Shchelkanov, MIu and Prilipov, AG and Deriabin, PG and Fediakina, IT and Galkina, IV and Kireev, DE and Frolov, AV and Akanina, DS and Usacheva, OV and Shliapnikova, OV and Poglazov, AB and Morozova, TN and Proshina, ES and Grebennikova, TV and Zaberezhnyĭ, AD and Iakovlev, SS and Shcherbakova, LO and Shapovalov, AB and Zhalin, MV and Rudenko, VP and Pichuev, AE and Litvin, KN and Varkentin, AV and Steshenko, VV and Kharitonov, SP and Proshina, ES and Samokhvalov, EI and Al'khovskiĭ, SV and Aliper, TI and Martynovchenko, VV and Lysenko, SN and Vlasov, NA and Nepoklonov, EA}, title = {[Interpretation of the epizootic outbreak among wild and domestic birds in the south of the European part of Russia in December 2007].}, journal = {Voprosy virusologii}, volume = {53}, number = {4}, pages = {18-23}, pmid = {18756811}, issn = {0507-4088}, mesh = {Amino Acid Substitution ; Animal Migration ; Animals ; Birds/*virology ; Chickens/*virology ; *Disease Outbreaks ; Genome, Viral/genetics ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Influenza in Birds/*epidemiology/virology ; Phylogeny ; Risk Factors ; Russia/epidemiology ; Turkeys/*virology ; Viral Proteins/metabolism ; }, abstract = {The paper presents the results of interpreting the epizootic outbreak etiologically associated with high-virulent influenza virus A/H5N1 among domestic and wild birds in the Zernogradsky and Tselinsky districts of the Rostov Region. Epizooty was characterized by a high infection rate in the synanthropic birds of a ground-based complex. RT-PCT revealed influenza virus A/H5 in 60% of pigeons and crows and in around 20% of starlings, and in 10% of tree sparrows. Fifteen viral strains from chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus), Indian ducks (Cairina moschata), rooks (Corvus frugilegus), rock pigeons (Columba livia), tree sparrows (Passer montanus), common starlings (Sturnus vulgaris), and great white herons (Egretta alba) were isolated and deposited in the State Collection of Viruses of the Russian Federation. Full-sized genomes of 5 strains were sequenced and deposited in the international database GenBank. The isolated strains belong to the Quinhai-Siberian (2.2) genotype, an Iranian-Northern Caucasian subgroup, they are phylogenetically closest to the strain A/chicken/Moscow/2/2007 (inducing epizooty among poultry in the near-Moscow Region in February 2007) and have 13 unique amino acid replacements as the consensus of the Quinhai-Siberian genotypes in the proteins PB2, PA, HA, NP, NA, and M2, by preserving thereby 4 unique replacements first describes for the strain A/chicken/Moscow/2/2007. The findings are indicative of a different mechanism that is responsible for bringing the virus into the northeastern part of the Azov Sea area in September 2007 (during the fall migration of wild birds) and in December 2007 in the south-western Rostov Region where a human factor cannot be excluded. Mass infection of synanthropic birds endangers the further spread of epizooty, including that in the central regions of the Russian Federation in spring after near migrants return after wintering.}, }
@article {pmid18756528, year = {2009}, author = {Bridge, ES and Schoech, SJ and Bowman, R and Wingfield, JC}, title = {Temporal predictability in food availability: effects upon the reproductive axis in Scrub-Jays.}, journal = {Journal of experimental zoology. Part A, Ecological genetics and physiology}, volume = {311}, number = {1}, pages = {35-44}, doi = {10.1002/jez.493}, pmid = {18756528}, issn = {1932-5223}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; *Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; Animals ; California ; Corticosterone/blood ; *Diet ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Radioimmunoassay ; Reproduction/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Florida Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) in a suburban environment with year-round access to multiple sources of abundant, human-source foods consistently breed earlier each year and have lower baseline levels of circulating corticosterone (CORT) than jays in a nearby wildland setting. These findings suggest that food supplies influence CORT levels, which in turn may partially determine the timing of reproduction. However, wildland birds with access to high-quality supplemental foods did not advance breeding or lower CORT levels to the degree observed in the suburbs. Therefore, rather than quality or quantity of food consumed, the perception of a reliable and predictable food supply may be an important factor in determining laying dates. If a predictable food supply accelerates the reproductive process, it follows that food provided on an unpredictable schedule may slow reproduction. We subjected captive Western Scrub-Jays (A. californica) to a 30-day photoperiod transition from short- to long-days and tested whether birds with access to food on an unpredictable schedule exhibited delayed or reduced production of reproductive hormones compared with birds given food on a predictable schedule. Baseline CORT concentrations increased slightly during the experiment, but did not differ between treatment groups. Birds with unpredictable food had slightly lower testosterone levels relative to controls, but there was no effect on estradiol or luteinizing hormone. Our findings offer weak support for the hypothesis that an unpredictable food supply will delay the onset of reproduction; however, the artificial lab environment may limit the application of these findings to free-living populations.}, }
@article {pmid18729752, year = {2008}, author = {Harnett, BM and Doarn, CR and Rosen, J and Hannaford, B and Broderick, TJ}, title = {Evaluation of unmanned airborne vehicles and mobile robotic telesurgery in an extreme environment.}, journal = {Telemedicine journal and e-health : the official journal of the American Telemedicine Association}, volume = {14}, number = {6}, pages = {539-544}, doi = {10.1089/tmj.2007.0087}, pmid = {18729752}, issn = {1556-3669}, mesh = {*Aircraft ; Environment ; Evaluation Studies as Topic ; Female ; Hospitals, Packaged ; Humans ; Male ; Military Medicine/*instrumentation/methods ; Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures/instrumentation/*methods ; Risk Factors ; *Robotics ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Telemedicine/*instrumentation/methods ; United States ; }, abstract = {As unmanned extraction vehicles become a reality in the military theater, opportunities to augment medical operations with telesurgical robotics become more plausible. This project demonstrated an experimental surgical robot using an unmanned airborne vehicle (UAV) as a network topology. Because battlefield operations are dynamic and geographically challenging, the installation of wireless networks is not a feasible option at this point. However, to utilize telesurgical robotics to assist in the urgent medical care of wounded soldiers, a robust, high bandwidth, low latency network is requisite. For the first time, a mobile surgical robotic system was deployed to an austere environment and surgeons were able to remotely operate the systems wirelessly using a UAV. Two University of Cincinnati surgeons were able to remotely drive the University of Washington's RAVEN robot's end effectors. The network topology demonstrated a highly portable, quickly deployable, bandwidth-sufficient and low latency wireless network required for battlefield use.}, }
@article {pmid18727396, year = {2008}, author = {Balinova, NV and Spitsina, NKh and El'chinova, GI and Terekhovskaia, IG}, title = {[Analysis of reproductive and age parameters in Kalmyk rural populations].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {44}, number = {6}, pages = {850-856}, pmid = {18727396}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; *Live Birth ; Middle Aged ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Rate/*ethnology/trends ; *Rural Population ; Russia/ethnology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {Questionnaire data of 704 women of postreproductive age were used in this study. Questionnaire involved 462 Kalmyks, 119 Russians, 43 Kazakhs, 52 representatives of Northern Caucasus ethnic groups and, 28 other ethnic groups. The average number of pregnancies in Kalmyks was 5.49; the average number of live births was 3.21. The Crow index for Kalmyks was I(m) = 0.038, I(f) = 0.300, I(tot) = 0.350; and for Russians in Kalmykia, I(m) = 0.030, I(f) = 0.264, I(tot) = 0.302.}, }
@article {pmid18716734, year = {2008}, author = {Vinod Kumar, M and Rajagopalan, S}, title = {Trial using multiple micronutrient food supplement and its effect on cognition.}, journal = {Indian journal of pediatrics}, volume = {75}, number = {7}, pages = {671-678}, pmid = {18716734}, issn = {0973-7693}, mesh = {Attention/drug effects ; Child ; Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Dietary Supplements ; Erythrocyte Count ; Female ; Food, Fortified ; Hematocrit ; Hemoglobins/analysis ; Humans ; India ; Intelligence/drug effects ; Male ; Memory/drug effects ; Micronutrients/*administration &amp; dosage ; Nutritional Status ; Psychometrics ; Schools ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To test the efficacy of a multiple micronutrient food supplement (MMFS) on the nutrition status of school children and its effect on cognition.<br><br>METHODS: A MMFS was developed containing chelated ferrous sulphate and microencapsulated vitamin A, B2, B6, B12, folic acid, niacin, calcium pantothenate, vitamin C, vitamin E, lysine and calcium and the efficacy of the MMFS was assessed in 7-11 year old school children in Chennai, India by a pre-post test design. In the experimental group (N=51), the food in the school kitchen was cooked with the MMFS for the residential school children for a period of one year. The control group (N=72) consisted of day scholars who did not eat at the school. Hemoglobin, red blood cell count and hematocrit were measured at baseline and at the end of the study (after one year). A battery of 7 memory tests (The personal information test, the Mann-Suiter Visual memory screen for objects, The digit span forward test, The digit span backward test, The delayed response test, The Benton Visual Retention Test and The Cattells retentivity test), one test for attention and concentration (Letter cancellation test) and one test for intelligence (Ravens's coloured progressive matrices) were administered to all the children at baseline and endline.<br><br>RESULTS: It was seen that there was a significant (P<0.05) improvement in the experimental group in hemoglobin, hematocrit and red cell count whereas in the control group there was a statistically significant decline(P<0.05) in hemoglobin and red cell count. In 5 tests out of the 7 memory tests and in the letter cancellation test for attention, the mean change in scores in the experimental group is significantly more (P<0.05) than the control group. There was no significant improvement in the overall intelligence as seen in the Ravens progressive matrices between the experimental and control groups at endline.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The study shows that the MMFS is effective in improving the nutrition status and cognition in children.}, }
@article {pmid18715277, year = {2008}, author = {Aragón, AS and Coriale, G and Fiorentino, D and Kalberg, WO and Buckley, D and Gossage, JP and Ceccanti, M and Mitchell, ER and May, PA}, title = {Neuropsychological characteristics of Italian children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.}, journal = {Alcoholism, clinical and experimental research}, volume = {32}, number = {11}, pages = {1909-1919}, pmid = {18715277}, issn = {1530-0277}, support = {AA014828/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; U01 AA014786/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; U24 AA014811/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; U01 AA014786-03/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; U01 AA014786-02/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA014811/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; U01 AA014786-01/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; U24 AA014828/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Attention ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Child Behavior Disorders/diagnosis/*psychology ; Educational Status ; Female ; Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders/*psychology ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/diagnosis/*psychology ; Intelligence ; Italy ; Language ; Learning ; Male ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Pregnancy ; Social Class ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) display many problems ranging from deficits in intelligence to behavioral difficulties. Thus, many studies have aimed at defining the neuropsychological characteristics of children with FASD. The current article describes the neuropsychological characteristics of Italian children with severe diagnosis within FASD and compares them with controls. It was expected that intellectual functioning, language comprehension, academic skills, and inattention/hyperactivity would discriminate children with FASD from randomly selected peers without FASD.<br><br>METHODS: This article presents data from a second cohort of children examined in 2005 as part of an in-school epidemiological study of FASD in Italy. Of 80 children, 23 diagnosed with a FASD, and 57 randomly selected control children from the same first-grade classes, participated. After screening for FASD via growth and dysmorphology, the children were administered a test of general intelligence (WISC-R) as well as tests of nonverbal reasoning (Raven Colored Progressive Matrices), language comprehension (Rustioni), academic achievement (IPDA), and problem behavior (Disruptive Behavior Disorder Rating Scale).<br><br>RESULTS: Children diagnosed with a FASD achieved lower scores than control children on Verbal, Performance, and Full Scale IQ. Profile analysis of the WISC-R indicates overall differences between the groups. However, some intact functioning within the FASD group was found, as the Similarities and Vocabulary subtests were similar to the controls. After an alpha adjustment to 0.004, the Block Design, Object Assembly, and Mazes subtests were significantly different from controls. On tests of nonverbal reasoning, language comprehension, and academic achievement, the children with a FASD scored significantly lower. Moreover, teachers rated children with a severe diagnosis within FASD as showing more inattentive symptoms than controls, while hyperactive/impulsive characteristics among children with a FASD were comparable with the control children. Significant correlations between head circumference, child dysmorphology, WISC-R, and Raven CPM scores are also reported.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates that a sample of Italian children with a FASD, when compared with control children, display poorer functioning on measures of general intelligence, nonverbal reasoning, academic achievement, and teacher-rated problem behaviors. The findings also contribute to the formulation of a neuropsychological profile of children diagnosed with a FASD.}, }
@article {pmid18715117, year = {2008}, author = {Prior, H and Schwarz, A and Güntürkün, O}, title = {Mirror-induced behavior in the magpie (Pica pica): evidence of self-recognition.}, journal = {PLoS biology}, volume = {6}, number = {8}, pages = {e202}, pmid = {18715117}, issn = {1545-7885}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Crows/*physiology ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Comparative studies suggest that at least some bird species have evolved mental skills similar to those found in humans and apes. This is indicated by feats such as tool use, episodic-like memory, and the ability to use one's own experience in predicting the behavior of conspecifics. It is, however, not yet clear whether these skills are accompanied by an understanding of the self. In apes, self-directed behavior in response to a mirror has been taken as evidence of self-recognition. We investigated mirror-induced behavior in the magpie, a songbird species from the crow family. As in apes, some individuals behaved in front of the mirror as if they were testing behavioral contingencies. When provided with a mark, magpies showed spontaneous mark-directed behavior. Our findings provide the first evidence of mirror self-recognition in a non-mammalian species. They suggest that essential components of human self-recognition have evolved independently in different vertebrate classes with a separate evolutionary history.}, }
@article {pmid18688099, year = {2008}, author = {Shetty, MK and , }, title = {Guidelines on the use of botulinum toxin type A.}, journal = {Indian journal of dermatology, venereology and leprology}, volume = {74 Suppl}, number = {}, pages = {S13-22}, pmid = {18688099}, issn = {0973-3922}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/*standards ; Cosmetic Techniques/standards ; Dermatology/methods/standards ; Facial Muscles/anatomy &amp; histology/drug effects/physiology ; Humans ; Patient Education as Topic/methods/standards ; Patient Selection ; Skin Aging/drug effects/pathology/physiology ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Botulinum toxin is available as types A and B. These two different forms need different dosages and hence, the physician needs to be familiar with the formulations. A thorough knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the muscles in the area to be injected is essential. INDICATIONS FOR BOTULINUM TOXIN: Dynamic wrinkles caused by persistent muscular contractions are the main aesthetic indications for the use of Botulinum toxin. These include forehead lines, glabellar lines, crow's feet, bunny lines, perioral wrinkles, and platysmal bands. Non-aesthetic indications include hyperhidrosis of the palms, soles and axillae. PHYSICIANS' QUALIFICATIONS: Any qualified dermatologist may practice the technique after receiving adequate training in the field. This may be obtained either during post-graduation or at any workshops dedicated to this subject.<br><br>FACILITY: Botulinum toxin can be administered in the dermatologist's minor procedure room.<br><br>Detailed counseling with respect to the treatment, desired effects, and longevity of the results should be discussed with the patient. The patient should be given brochures to study and adequate opportunity to seek information. A detailed consent form needs to be completed by the patient. The consent form should include the type of botulinum toxin, longevity expected and possible postoperative complications. Pre- and postoperative photography is recommended. Dosage depends on the area, muscle mass, gender and other factors outlined in these guidelines. It is recommended that beginners should focus on the basic indications in the upper third of the face and that they treat the middle and lower parts of the face only after garnering adequate experience.}, }
@article {pmid18707523, year = {2002}, author = {Kokko, H and Ekman, J}, title = {Delayed dispersal as a route to breeding: territorial inheritance, safe havens, and ecological constraints.}, journal = {The American naturalist}, volume = {160}, number = {4}, pages = {468-484}, doi = {10.1086/342074}, pmid = {18707523}, issn = {1537-5323}, abstract = {The relative roles of ecological constraints, the benefits of philopatry, and the role of life history continue to be debated in the evolution of natal philopatry and cooperative breeding. We compare three routes to breeding: departing to search for territories as a floater, staying and queuing to inherit the natal territory, or queuing and eventually shifting to a neighboring vacancy. Our model assumed a dominance-structured population. It quantifies the benefits of philopatry for varying-rank subordinates and contrasts it against the benefit of dispersal. We apply the model to data on Siberian jay Perisoreus infaustus, a species in which retained offspring do not help at the nest. The results indicate that territorial inheritance plays a small role in this species (presumably due to inbreeding avoidance), and territory acquisition is less constrained for dispersing than philopatric offspring. Nevertheless, small family groups-one or, at the most, two same-sex queuers-are predicted to form because philopatric offspring gain nepotistic benefits that improve their survival. This fits with data on group sizes and supports the idea of the natal territory as a safe haven for waiting for breeding opportunities. We also discuss our predictions in the light of ecological constraints and clarify recent confusingly different predictions on the role of habitat saturation as an explanation for delayed dispersal and cooperative breeding. We argue that "ecological constraint" is too wide a term to yield useful predictive power and that it is more appropriate to examine the consequences of specific life-history traits on the success of dispersers.}, }
@article {pmid18707236, year = {2001}, author = {Brodin, A and Lundborg, K and Clark, CW}, title = {The effect of dominance on food hoarding: a game theoretical model.}, journal = {The American naturalist}, volume = {157}, number = {1}, pages = {66-75}, doi = {10.1086/317008}, pmid = {18707236}, issn = {1537-5323}, abstract = {Many food hoarding animals live in small groups structured by rank. The presence of conspecifics in the hoarding area increases the risk of losing stored supplies. The possibility of stealing from others depends on a forager's rank in the group. Highly ranked individuals can steal from subordinates and also protect their own caches. Since storing incurs both costs and benefits, the optimal hoarding investment will differ between individuals of different rank. In a game theoretical model, we investigate how dominant and subordinate individuals should optimize their hoarding effort. Our model imagines animals that are large-scale hoarders in autumn and dependent on stored supplies for winter survival. Many examples can be found in the bird families Paridae and Corvidae, but the model can be used for any hoarding species that forage in groups. Predictions from the model are as follows: First, subordinates should store more than dominants, but in a predictable environment, this difference will decrease as the environment gets harsher. Under harsh conditions, dominants should store almost as much as subordinates and, later, spend almost as much time retrieving their own caches as subordinates. Second, if on the other hand, bad winter conditions were not expected when storing, dominants should spend more time pilfering caches from subordinates. Third, in populations that are highly dependent on stored supplies, dominants should store relatively more than in populations that are less dependent on stored supplies. Fourth, harsher environments will favor hoarding. And finally, if dominant individuals store, it implies that hoarders have a selfish recovery advantage over conspecific pilferers.}, }
@article {pmid18703236, year = {2008}, author = {Archbold, S and Harris, M and O'Donoghue, G and Nikolopoulos, T and White, A and Richmond, HL}, title = {Reading abilities after cochlear implantation: the effect of age at implantation on outcomes at 5 and 7 years after implantation.}, journal = {International journal of pediatric otorhinolaryngology}, volume = {72}, number = {10}, pages = {1471-1478}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijporl.2008.06.016}, pmid = {18703236}, issn = {0165-5876}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Child ; Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; *Cochlear Implantation ; Cochlear Implants ; Dyslexia/*complications/diagnosis ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Hearing Loss, Sensorineural/*complications/*surgery ; Humans ; Infant ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Reading ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The reading skills of deaf children have typically been delayed and this delay has been found to increase with age. This study explored the reading ability of a large group of children who had received cochlear implants 7 years earlier and investigated the relationship between reading ability and age at implantation.<br><br>METHODS: The reading ages of 105 children, with age at implantation less than 7 years and onset of deafness below the age of three, were assessed 5 and 7 years after implantation using the Edinburgh reading test. Net reading age was calculated by using the difference between chronological age and reading age. Non-verbal intelligence was measured for a subset of 71 children, using Raven's coloured progressive matrices. Further investigation of this subset looked at the association of nonverbal intelligence, age at implantation and reading ability.<br><br>RESULTS: There was a strong negative correlation at both 5 and 7 years after implant between net reading score and age at implantation. In the subset of 71 children who had an IQ score within normal range, those implanted at or before 42 months had age-appropriate reading both 5 and 7 years post-implant. This was not the case for children implanted after 42 months. Reading progress at the two post-implant assessment intervals were found to be highly related.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Age at implantation was a significant factor in the development of reading skills in this group. In children implanted below the age of 42 months, reading progress was in line with chronological age, which has not been the case previously with profoundly deaf children. With earlier implantation more common in present groups, and improved technology, there is every reason to be optimistic about the influence of cochlear implantation on the development of reading skills in deaf children.}, }
@article {pmid18691377, year = {2008}, author = {Leoni, B and Rubolini, D and Romano, M and di Giancamillo, M and Saino, N}, title = {Avian hind-limb digit length ratios measured from radiographs are sexually dimorphic.}, journal = {Journal of anatomy}, volume = {213}, number = {4}, pages = {425-430}, pmid = {18691377}, issn = {1469-7580}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Female ; Hindlimb ; Male ; Radiography ; *Sex Characteristics ; Toe Phalanges/*anatomy &amp; histology/diagnostic imaging ; }, abstract = {Sexual dimorphism in digit length ratios is well established in humans, and has been reported in other vertebrate species as well, including birds. The sign of sexual dimorphism in digit ratios may, however, vary both within and between vertebrate classes. It has been hypothesized that sex differences in digit ratios arise via differential prenatal exposure of the two sexes to steroids, which may affect the expression of the Hox genes controlling the osteometric development of digits and appendices. Among birds, the evidence for sex dimorphism in hind-limb digit ratios is conflicting, though all previous studies were based on measurements of undissected digits, implying that results could be confounded by sex-related variation in soft tissues. Here we report that digit ratios derived from radiographs of both feet of a large passerine bird, the hooded crow (Corvus corone), are sexually dimorphic, males showing larger 2D : 3D (effect size, r = 0.33) and 2D : 4D than females (effect size, r = 0.28). We also observed a good agreement (r = 0.45) between radiographic estimates of digit ratios and digit ratios calculated based on undissected digit measurements (thus including soft tissues). Importantly, we found that the patterns of sex and side differences were largely coherent between the two methods. Therefore, our findings show for the first time in avian species that sex differences in digit ratios have an osteometric basis, a fundamental prerequisite for a role of Hox genes in originating such dimorphism.}, }
@article {pmid18689077, year = {2008}, author = {Pollock, CG}, title = {West Nile virus in the Americas.}, journal = {Journal of avian medicine and surgery}, volume = {22}, number = {2}, pages = {151-157}, doi = {10.1647/2007-029R.1}, pmid = {18689077}, issn = {1082-6742}, mesh = {Americas/epidemiology ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/virology ; Birds ; Global Health ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; *West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus causes sporadic disease in the Eastern hemisphere that is often asymptomatic or mild, whereas in the Western hemisphere, West Nile virus has been associated with illness and profound mortality in many avian species. West Nile virus might have been transported to North America by an infected mosquito or the virus could have entered within a vertebrate host like a bird. Although the most important method of West Nile virus transmission is by Culex species mosquitoes, additional modes of transmission have been identified. West Nile virus has been isolated from almost 300 species of Western birds. The long-term effects on common species such as corvids, sparrows, grackles, finches, hawks, and robins are still being debated. However the potential effect of West Nile virus on small populations or species with limited geographic distribution, such as Hawaiian avifauna, could be much more catastrophic.}, }
@article {pmid18678791, year = {2008}, author = {Harris, JC}, title = {Edgar Allan Poe: The raven.}, journal = {Archives of general psychiatry}, volume = {65}, number = {8}, pages = {868-869}, doi = {10.1001/archpsyc.65.8.868}, pmid = {18678791}, issn = {1538-3636}, mesh = {Animals ; Baltimore ; Books, Illustrated/*history ; *Crows ; France ; History, 19th Century ; Humans ; *Literature, Modern ; *Medicine in Literature ; *Medicine in the Arts ; Poetry as Topic/*history ; Tuberculosis, Pulmonary/*history ; }, }
@article {pmid18674626, year = {2008}, author = {Koester, D and Schiller, NO}, title = {Morphological priming in overt language production: electrophysiological evidence from Dutch.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {42}, number = {4}, pages = {1622-1630}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroimage.2008.06.043}, pmid = {18674626}, issn = {1095-9572}, mesh = {Adult ; Brain/*physiology ; Electroencephalography/*methods ; Evoked Potentials/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; *Language ; Male ; Netherlands ; Semantics ; Speech/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {The present study investigated morphological priming in Dutch and its time course in overt speech production using a long-lag priming paradigm. Prime words were compounds that were morphologically related to a picture name (e.g. the word jaszak, 'coat pocket' was used for a picture of a coat; Dutch jas) or form-related monomorphemic words (e.g. jasmijn, 'jasmine'). The morphologically related compounds could be semantically transparent (e.g. eksternest, 'magpie nest') or opaque (e.g. eksteroog, lit. 'magpie eye', 'corn', for a picture of a magpie, Dutch ekster). Behavioral and event-related potential (ERP) data were collected in two sessions. The production of morphologically related and complex words facilitated subsequent picture naming and elicited a reduced N400 compared with unrelated prime words. The effects did not differ for transparent and opaque relations. Mere form overlap between a prime word and a target picture name did not affect picture naming. These results extend previous findings from German to another language and demonstrate the feasibility of measuring cognitive ERP components during overt speech. Furthermore, the results suggest that morphological priming in language production cannot be reduced to semantic and phonological processing. The time course of these priming effects as reflected in the ERP measure is in accordance with a meta-analytic temporal estimate of morphological encoding in speaking [Indefrey, P., &amp; Levelt, W.J.M. (2004). The spatial and temporal signatures of word production components. Cognition, 92, 101-144.] suggesting that morphological relations are encoded at the word form level.}, }
@article {pmid18674604, year = {2008}, author = {Schwab, C and Bugnyar, T and Kotrschal, K}, title = {Preferential learning from non-affiliated individuals in jackdaws (Corvus monedula).}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {79}, number = {3}, pages = {148-155}, pmid = {18674604}, issn = {1872-8308}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/psychology ; Female ; Learning/*physiology ; Male ; Pair Bond ; Siblings ; *Social Behavior ; Social Environment ; Space Perception ; }, abstract = {It has been suggested that affiliated social relations may facilitate information transfer between individuals. We here tested this rarely examined hypothesis with juvenile and adult jackdaws (Corvus monedula) in three stimulus enhancement tasks, both in a non-food context (experiment 1) and in a food context (experiments 2 and 3). We first show that siblings and pair partners maintain stronger bonded social relations than do non-siblings and non-pair partners. We therefore tested individuals in sibling and non-sibling dyads and, later in ontogeny, in pair and non-pair dyads. Jackdaws either did not learn from any other conspecific (experiment 1), or they learned from non-affiliated individuals (non-siblings, non-pair partners in experiments 2 and 3). This may be related to two main characteristics of jackdaws' affiliated relationships. First, affiliates share food at a high rate and may rely on their knowledgeable partners to secure food rather than learning from them. Second, affiliates spend most time in close spatial proximity to each other which increases the probability that they simultaneously experience occurrences in their environment. Hence, spatially more distant individuals, which are more likely to be non-affiliated, face different foraging situations and may therefore provide more relevant information which may lead to selective social learning.}, }
@article {pmid18674542, year = {2008}, author = {Nishimiya, Y and Kondo, H and Takamichi, M and Sugimoto, H and Suzuki, M and Miura, A and Tsuda, S}, title = {Crystal structure and mutational analysis of Ca2+-independent type II antifreeze protein from longsnout poacher, Brachyopsis rostratus.}, journal = {Journal of molecular biology}, volume = {382}, number = {3}, pages = {734-746}, doi = {10.1016/j.jmb.2008.07.042}, pmid = {18674542}, issn = {1089-8638}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Antifreeze Proteins, Type II/*chemistry/*genetics/metabolism ; Calcium/*metabolism ; Crystallography, X-Ray ; DNA Mutational Analysis ; Ice ; Models, Molecular ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Mutagenesis, Site-Directed ; Perciformes ; Protein Folding ; *Protein Structure, Tertiary ; Recombinant Proteins/chemistry/genetics/metabolism ; Surface Properties ; }, abstract = {We recently found that longsnout poacher (Brachyosis rostratus) produces a Ca(2+)-independent type II antifreeze protein (lpAFP) and succeeded in expressing recombinant lpAFP using Phichia pastoris. Here, we report, for the first time, the X-ray crystal structure of lpAFP at 1.34 A resolution. The lpAFP structure displayed a relatively planar surface, which encompasses two loop regions (Cys86-Lys89 and Asn91-Cys97) and a short beta-strand (Trp109-Leu112) with three unstructured segments (Gly57-Ile58, Ala103-Ala104, and Pro113-His118). Electrostatic calculation of the protein surface showed that the relatively planar surface was divided roughly into a hydrophobic area (composed of the three unstructured segments lacking secondary structure) and a hydrophilic area (composed of the loops and beta-strand). Site-directed mutation of Ile58 with Phe at the center of the hydrophobic area decreased activity significantly, whereas mutation of Leu112 with Phe at an intermediate area between the hydrophobic and hydrophilic areas retained complete activity. In the hydrophilic area, a peptide-swap mutant in the loops retained 60% activity despite simultaneous mutations of eight residues. We conclude that the epicenter of the ice-binding site of lpAFP is the hydrophobic region, which is centered by Ile58, in the relatively planar surface. We built an ice-binding model for lpAFP on the basis of a lattice match of ice and constrained water oxygen atoms surrounding the hydrophobic area in the lpAFP structure. The model in which lpAFP has been docked to a secondary prism (2-1-10) plane, which is different from the one determined for Ca(2+)-independent type II AFP from sea raven (11-21), appears to explain the results of the mutagenesis analysis.}, }
@article {pmid18671882, year = {2008}, author = {Bello, KD and Goharpey, N and Crewther, SG and Crewther, DP}, title = {A puzzle form of a non-verbal intelligence test gives significantly higher performance measures in children with severe intellectual disability.}, journal = {BMC pediatrics}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {30}, pmid = {18671882}, issn = {1471-2431}, mesh = {Attention/physiology ; Autistic Disorder/diagnosis/psychology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*psychology ; Cross-Over Studies ; Down Syndrome/diagnosis/psychology ; Female ; Form Perception/*physiology ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/diagnosis/*psychology ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Language Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Reference Values ; Verbal Behavior/physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Assessment of 'potential intellectual ability' of children with severe intellectual disability (ID) is limited, as current tests designed for normal children do not maintain their interest. Thus a manual puzzle version of the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) was devised to appeal to the attentional and sensory preferences and language limitations of children with ID. It was hypothesized that performance on the book and manual puzzle forms would not differ for typically developing children but that children with ID would perform better on the puzzle form.<br><br>METHODS: The first study assessed the validity of this puzzle form of the RCPM for 76 typically developing children in a test-retest crossover design, with a 3 week interval between tests. A second study tested performance and completion rate for the puzzle form compared to the book form in a sample of 164 children with ID.<br><br>RESULTS: In the first study, no significant difference was found between performance on the puzzle and book forms in typically developing children, irrespective of the order of completion. The second study demonstrated a significantly higher performance and completion rate for the puzzle form compared to the book form in the ID population.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Similar performance on book and puzzle forms of the RCPM by typically developing children suggests that both forms measure the same construct. These findings suggest that the puzzle form does not require greater cognitive ability but demands sensory-motor attention and limits distraction in children with severe ID. Thus, we suggest the puzzle form of the RCPM is a more reliable measure of the non-verbal mentation of children with severe ID than the book form.}, }
@article {pmid18670793, year = {2009}, author = {Zinkivskay, A and Nazir, F and Smulders, TV}, title = {What-where-when memory in magpies (Pica pica).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {119-125}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-008-0176-x}, pmid = {18670793}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {BBS/S/H/2005/12030//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Association Learning ; Color Perception ; *Crows ; *Discrimination Learning ; Female ; Male ; *Recognition, Psychology ; *Retention, Psychology ; Spatial Behavior ; }, abstract = {Some animals have been shown to be able to remember which type of food they hoarded or encountered in which location and how long ago (what-where-when memory). In this study, we test whether magpies (Pica pica) also show evidence of remembering these different aspects of a past episode. Magpies hid red- and blue-dyed pellets of scrambled eggs in a large tray containing wood shavings. They were allowed to make as many caches as they wanted. The birds were then returned either the same day or the next day to retrieve the pellets. If they returned the same day, one colour of pellets was replaced with wooden beads of similar size and colour, while if they returned the next day this would happen to the other colour. Over just a few trials, the birds learned to only search for the food pellets, and ignore the beads, of the appropriate colour for the given retention interval. A probe trial in which all items were removed showed that the birds persisted in searching for the pellets and not the beads. This shows that magpies can remember which food item they hoarded where, and when, even if the food items only differ from each other in their colour and are dispersed throughout a continuous caching substrate.}, }
@article {pmid18663786, year = {2008}, author = {Peterson, AS and Fong, LG and Young, SG}, title = {PCSK9 function and physiology.}, journal = {Journal of lipid research}, volume = {49}, number = {7}, pages = {1595-1599}, pmid = {18663786}, issn = {0022-2275}, support = {R01 HL087228/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; U01 HL066621/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; U01 HL66621/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Models, Molecular ; Proprotein Convertase 9 ; Proprotein Convertases ; Protein Binding ; Protein Structure, Quaternary ; Serine Endopeptidases/chemistry/genetics/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {PCSK9 has exploded onto center stage plasma cholesterol metabolism, raising hopes for a new strategy to treat hypercholesterolemia. PCSK9 in a plasma protein that triggers increased degradation of the LDL receptor. Gain-of-function mutations in PCSK9 reduce LDL receptor levels in the liver, resulting in high levels of LDL cholesterol in the plasma and increased susceptibility to coronary heart disease. Loss-of-function mutations lead to higher levels of the LDL receptor, lower LDL cholesterol levels and protection from coronary heart disease. Two papers in this issue of the Journal of Lipid Research exemplify the rapid pace of progress in understanding PCSK9 molecular interactions and physiology. Dr. Shilpa Pandit and coworkers from Merck Research Laboratories describe the functional basis for the hypercholesterolemia associated with gain-of-function missense mutations in PCSK9. Dr. Jay Horton's group at UT Southwestern describe the kinetics and metabolism of PCSK9 and the impact of PCSK9 on LDL receptors in the liver and adrenal gland.}, }
@article {pmid18652855, year = {2008}, author = {Jeon, WJ and Lee, EK and Joh, SJ and Kwon, JH and Yang, CB and Yoon, YS and Choi, KS}, title = {Very virulent infectious bursal disease virus isolated from wild birds in Korea: epidemiological implications.}, journal = {Virus research}, volume = {137}, number = {1}, pages = {153-156}, doi = {10.1016/j.virusres.2008.06.013}, pmid = {18652855}, issn = {0168-1702}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/virology ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/mortality/*virology ; Birds/virology ; Birnaviridae Infections/epidemiology/mortality/*veterinary/virology ; Chick Embryo ; Chickens ; Infectious bursal disease virus/isolation &amp; purification/*pathogenicity ; Korea/epidemiology ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; Viral Structural Proteins/genetics ; Virulence/genetics ; }, abstract = {To explore the epidemiological link between infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) in wild birds and domestic chickens in Korea, we examined 107 free-living wild birds, representing 7 species, that were found dead of apparent natural causes in Korea over the past two years for the presence of IBDV. Five birds were tested positive for IBDV by RT-PCR assay: black-billed magpie (n=1), mallard duck (n=2), bean goose (n=1) and white-fronted goose (n=1). IBDV was isolated from RT-PCR-positive tissues following chicken embryo inoculation. Sequence analysis of the VP2 gene indicated that all of the isolates from the wild birds encode amino acids A222, I242, I256, I294 and S299 of VP2, which are conserved among strains of very virulent IBDV (vvIBDV). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the wild bird IBDV isolates are closely related to strains of vvIBDV. An IBDV isolate from a magpie showed 60% mortality in SPF chickens and severe bursal atrophy. The epidemiological implications of IBDV in free-living wild birds are discussed. To our knowledge, this is the first report of vvIBDV in free-living wild birds.}, }
@article {pmid18643300, year = {2008}, author = {Saakian, DB and Kirakosyan, Z and Hu, CK}, title = {Diploid biological evolution models with general smooth fitness landscapes and recombination.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {77}, number = {6 Pt 1}, pages = {061907}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.77.061907}, pmid = {18643300}, issn = {1539-3755}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Alleles ; Animals ; Biophysics/*methods ; Diploidy ; Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Models, Genetic ; Models, Statistical ; Models, Theoretical ; Molecular Biology ; Mutation ; Recombination, Genetic ; }, abstract = {Using a Hamilton-Jacobi equation approach, we obtain analytic equations for steady-state population distributions and mean fitness functions for Crow-Kimura and Eigen-type diploid biological evolution models with general smooth hypergeometric fitness landscapes. Our numerical solutions of diploid biological evolution models confirm the analytic equations obtained. We also study the parallel diploid model for the simple case of recombination and calculate the variance of distribution, which is consistent with numerical results.}, }
@article {pmid18641001, year = {2008}, author = {Giubilei, F and Medda, E and Fagnani, C and Bianchi, V and De Carolis, A and Salvetti, M and Sepe-Monti, M and Stazi, MA}, title = {Heritability of neurocognitive functioning in the elderly: evidence from an Italian twin study.}, journal = {Age and ageing}, volume = {37}, number = {6}, pages = {640-646}, doi = {10.1093/ageing/afn132}, pmid = {18641001}, issn = {1468-2834}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Attention ; *Cognition ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Environment ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*genetics ; Italy ; Linear Models ; Male ; Memory ; Mental Status Schedule ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Registries ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: the genetic and environmental origins of individual differences in specific cognitive abilities in the elderly are poorly understood. One reason is the lack of studies performed in cohorts with normal cognitive functions.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: to estimate the relative contributions of genetic and environmental factors in determining inter-individual variation in neurocognitive abilities in the Italian population.<br><br>DESIGN: cross-sectional analysis of twin data.<br><br>SETTING: a sample of older twins with normal cognition from the population-based Italian Twin Registry (ITR).<br><br>SUBJECTS: twin pairs resident in Rome and born between 1926 and 1940, identified through the ITR in 2002. The final study population included 93 twin pairs.<br><br>METHODS: subjects underwent neuropsychological tests providing information about different cognitive domains. The contributions of genetic and environmental effects were assessed using standard univariate twin modelling based on linear structural equations.<br><br>RESULTS: the best-fitting model incorporated additive genetic (A) and unique environmental (E) sources of variance for the following tests: Mini-Mental State Examination (A = 55%), Raven (A = 56%), Attentional Matrices (A = 79%), Copying Drawings (A = 69%) and Story Recall (A = 54%). For Phonological and Semantic Verbal Fluency, the best model included non-additive (D) and unique environmental influences (D = 62 and 54%, respectively). Cigarette smoking was estimated to be negatively associated with the score of Phonological Verbal Fluency. For Token test, the inter-individual variance was entirely due to environmental factors not shared by the twins.<br><br>CONCLUSION: our data showed that most of the specific cognitive abilities are moderately to highly heritable, and that the environmental factors of relevance for these abilities are those causing within-family differences.}, }
@article {pmid18632137, year = {2008}, author = {Kobayashi, T and Navarro, RR and Tatsumi, K and Iimura, Y}, title = {Influence of compost amendment on pyrene availability from artificially spiked soil to two subspecies of Cucurbita pepo.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {404}, number = {1}, pages = {1-9}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2008.06.011}, pmid = {18632137}, issn = {0048-9697}, mesh = {Animals ; Biodegradation, Environmental ; Biological Availability ; Cattle ; Environmental Monitoring/methods ; Fertilizers/analysis ; Humic Substances/analysis ; Manure/analysis ; Plant Shoots/chemistry ; Pyrenes/analysis/*metabolism ; Soil/analysis ; Soil Pollutants/analysis/*metabolism ; Vegetables/chemistry/growth &amp; development/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {The dissolved organic matter (DOM) fraction of soil organic matter (SOM) may positively contribute to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) bioavailability. This work investigated the effects of DOM-rich and PAHs-free compost amendment on the plant uptake of pyrene. Two subspecies of Cucurbita pepo (ssp. pepo cv. Raven and ssp. texana cv. Sunray) were grown for three weeks in a spiked soil containing 83.9 mg kg(-1) pyrene under four different treatments; inorganic fertilizer (IF) alone, 15% (v/v) mixed gardening compost with IF (MX15%+IF), MX30% alone, and no fertilization (NF). Equilibrium pyrene desorptions from a spiked soil (104 mg kg(-1)) under different concentrations (35-590 mg-C L(-1)) of DOM extracts derived from two types of composts including MX and cow manure were also conducted. After harvest, the decrease in the pyrene concentration of the soil ranged from 46-65% for the different treatments. The total dry biomass for both plants was highest under MX15%+IF. The bioconcentration factors of pyrene for both also tended to decrease with increasing MX dose from 15% to 30%. However, the total uptakes of pyrene with IF and MX15%+IF were not statistically different (36.7 and 33.7 microg for Raven, and 5.20 and 7.90 microg for Sunray, respectively). These values were around 100% higher than that with NF (17.4 microg for Raven and 2.0 microg for Sunray). The pyrene desorption data confirmed the ability of DOM to associate with pyrene as indicated by its increase in apparent water solubility. On the basis of these results, MX application at 15% (v/v) does not significantly reduce the phytoextraction of pyrene due to the enhancement of plant growth as well as the possible contribution of DOM fractions to pyrene bioavailability. The application of compost may not pose serious concerns regarding the efficiency of phytoremediation of PAHs-polluted soil.}, }
@article {pmid18627581, year = {2008}, author = {Jardim-Botelho, A and Raff, S and Rodrigues, Rde A and Hoffman, HJ and Diemert, DJ and Corrêa-Oliveira, R and Bethony, JM and Gazzinelli, MF}, title = {Hookworm, Ascaris lumbricoides infection and polyparasitism associated with poor cognitive performance in Brazilian schoolchildren.}, journal = {Tropical medicine &amp; international health : TM &amp; IH}, volume = {13}, number = {8}, pages = {994-1004}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-3156.2008.02103.x}, pmid = {18627581}, issn = {1365-3156}, mesh = {Animals ; Ascariasis/*epidemiology/parasitology ; Ascaris lumbricoides/isolation &amp; purification ; Brazil/epidemiology ; Child ; Child Development/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/*parasitology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Hookworm Infections/complications/*epidemiology ; Humans ; Necator americanus/isolation &amp; purification ; Parasite Egg Count ; Regression Analysis ; Rural Health ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between hookworm and Ascaris lumbricoides infection and performance on three subsets of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children - third edition (WISC-III) (Digit Span, Arithmetic and Coding) and Raven Colored Progressive Matrices.<br><br>METHODS: Cross-sectional study of 210 children between the ages of 6 and 11 years in Americaninhas, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Separate proportional odds models were used to measure the association between the intensity of helminth infections and poor performance on each of the four cognitive tests.<br><br>RESULTS: After adjusting for sex, age, socioeconomic status and other helminth infections, moderate-to-high-intensity hookworm infection was associated with poor performance on the WISC-III Coding subtest [OR = 3.20; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.43-7.17], low intensity of hookworm infection was associated with poor performance on the WISC-III Coding subtest [odds ratio (OR) = 3.71; 95% CI = 1.80-7.66] and moderate-to-high-intensity A. lumbricoides infection was associated with poor performance on the Raven test (OR = 2.03; 95% CI = 1.04-3.99), all in comparison with uninfected children. Children co-infected with A. lumbricoides infection and hookworm infection had greater odds of poor performance on some WISC-III subtests than children with only A. lumbricoides infection.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that hookworm infection may be associated with poorer concentration and information processing skills, as measured on the WISC-III Coding subtest, and that A. lumbricoides infection may be associated with poorer general intelligence, as measured through the Raven Colored Progressive Matrices. This study also presents evidence that polyparasitized children experience worse cognitive outcomes than children with only one helminth infection.}, }
@article {pmid18625536, year = {2008}, author = {Phillips, TJ and Symons, J and Menon, S and , }, title = {Does hormone therapy improve age-related skin changes in postmenopausal women? A randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, placebo-controlled multicenter study assessing the effects of norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol in the improvement of mild to moderate age-related skin changes in postmenopausal women.}, journal = {Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology}, volume = {59}, number = {3}, pages = {397-404.e3}, doi = {10.1016/j.jaad.2008.05.009}, pmid = {18625536}, issn = {1097-6787}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Double-Blind Method ; Drug Combinations ; *Estrogen Replacement Therapy/adverse effects ; Ethinyl Estradiol/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/*pharmacology ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Norethindrone/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/*analogs &amp; derivatives/pharmacology ; Norethindrone Acetate ; *Postmenopause ; Self-Assessment ; Skin/pathology ; Skin Aging/*drug effects/pathology ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In postmenopausal women, declining estrogen levels are associated with a variety of skin changes, many of which are reportedly improved by estrogen supplementation.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: A study was conducted to assess the effects of continuous combined norethindrone acetate (NA) and ethinyl estradiol (EE) in the control of mild to moderate age-related skin changes in postmenopausal women.<br><br>METHODS: Four hundred eighty-five subjects were enrolled in this 48-week randomized, double-blind study. Subjects were randomized to one of three study arms: placebo group (165 subjects), 1 mg NA/5 microg EE group (162 subjects), or a 1 mg NA/10 microg EE group (158 subjects). The primary efficacy parameters of the study were investigator global assessment of coarse and fine facial wrinkling at week 48 and subjective self-assessment of changes in wrinkling from baseline at week 48. Secondary parameters included investigator global assessment of skin laxity/sagging at week 48, investigator global assessment of skin texture/dryness at week 48, patient self-assessment of laxity/sagging, texture/dryness, and wrinkle depth determined by image analysis of skin replicas of the periorbital (crow's feet) and jowl areas, and skin elasticity determined by timed deformation and recoil.<br><br>RESULTS: There were similar scores in investigator global assessment in wrinkling and sagging modules at baseline across all three treatment groups. There were slight decreases in all parameters for all treatment groups for the primary subject end points, but there were no statistically significant differences between the NA/EE groups and placebo. For subject self-assessment of overall severity of skin wrinkling, there were no significant changes at weeks 24 and 48 compared to baseline. These data were unaffected by smoking status or alcohol consumption.<br><br>LIMITATIONS: This study assessed the effects of 48 weeks of low-dose estrogen upon facial skin in women who were, on average, 5 years postmenopausal. The effects of higher estrogen doses, longer treatment duration, or effects upon perimenopausal women cannot be extrapolated from this study.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Low-dose hormone therapy for 48 weeks in postmenopausal women did not significantly alter mild to moderate age-related facial skin changes.}, }
@article {pmid18618048, year = {2008}, author = {Dinis da Gama, A}, title = {[The unknown history of heparin's discovery].}, journal = {Revista portuguesa de cirurgia cardio-toracica e vascular : orgao oficial da Sociedade Portuguesa de Cirurgia Cardio-Toracica e Vascular}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {25-30}, pmid = {18618048}, issn = {0873-7215}, mesh = {Heparin/*history ; History, 20th Century ; United States ; }, abstract = {Heparin was accidentally discovered in 1916 by Jay McLean, a second-year medical student working at the Department of Physiology of the Johns Hopkins Medical School in Baltimore, under the direction of the eminent scientist William Howell. The discovery of heparin was not followed by immediate practical use and only twenty years later was recognized its clinical utility in the treatment of post traumatic venous thrombosis of the lower extremities, by the canadians Charles Best and Gordon Murray. Jay McLean expired in 1957, dismayed and depressed with the indiference devoted by the scientific community to its discovery and only several years later the fact was recognized in a simple ceremony to testify its participation in the discovery of a drug that promoted the progress and development of vascular and cardiac surgery, the extracorporeal circulation, the haemodialysis, the organ transplantation and the treatment and prevention of arterial and venous thromboembolism.}, }
@article {pmid18612417, year = {2008}, author = {Graham, LA and Lougheed, SC and Ewart, KV and Davies, PL}, title = {Lateral transfer of a lectin-like antifreeze protein gene in fishes.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {3}, number = {7}, pages = {e2616}, pmid = {18612417}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Antifreeze Proteins/chemistry/*genetics ; Codon/metabolism ; Conserved Sequence ; Fish Proteins/chemistry/*genetics ; Fishes/classification/*genetics ; *Gene Transfer, Horizontal ; Lectins/*chemistry/genetics ; Models, Molecular ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Mutation, Missense ; Phylogeny ; Protein Conformation ; RNA, Ribosomal/metabolism ; Sequence Alignment ; }, abstract = {Fishes living in icy seawater are usually protected from freezing by endogenous antifreeze proteins (AFPs) that bind to ice crystals and stop them from growing. The scattered distribution of five highly diverse AFP types across phylogenetically disparate fish species is puzzling. The appearance of radically different AFPs in closely related species has been attributed to the rapid, independent evolution of these proteins in response to natural selection caused by sea level glaciations within the last 20 million years. In at least one instance the same type of simple repetitive AFP has independently originated in two distant species by convergent evolution. But, the isolated occurrence of three very similar type II AFPs in three distantly related species (herring, smelt and sea raven) cannot be explained by this mechanism. These globular, lectin-like AFPs have a unique disulfide-bonding pattern, and share up to 85% identity in their amino acid sequences, with regions of even higher identity in their genes. A thorough search of current databases failed to find a homolog in any other species with greater than 40% amino acid sequence identity. Consistent with this result, genomic Southern blots showed the lectin-like AFP gene was absent from all other fish species tested. The remarkable conservation of both intron and exon sequences, the lack of correlation between evolutionary distance and mutation rate, and the pattern of silent vs non-silent codon changes make it unlikely that the gene for this AFP pre-existed but was lost from most branches of the teleost radiation. We propose instead that lateral gene transfer has resulted in the occurrence of the type II AFPs in herring, smelt and sea raven and allowed these species to survive in an otherwise lethal niche.}, }
@article {pmid18611204, year = {2008}, author = {Høie, B and Sommerfelt, K and Waaler, PE and Alsaker, FD and Skeidsvoll, H and Mykletun, A}, title = {The combined burden of cognitive, executive function, and psychosocial problems in children with epilepsy: a population-based study.}, journal = {Developmental medicine and child neurology}, volume = {50}, number = {7}, pages = {530-536}, doi = {10.1111/j.1469-8749.2008.03015.x}, pmid = {18611204}, issn = {0012-1622}, mesh = {Case-Control Studies ; Chi-Square Distribution ; Child ; Child Behavior Disorders/*epidemiology ; *Cognition Disorders/epidemiology/psychology ; Community Health Planning ; Electroencephalography/methods ; Epilepsy/epidemiology/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Photic Stimulation ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {The combined burden of psychosocial (Achenbach scales), cognitive (Raven matrices), and executive function (EF) problems was studied in a population-based sample of 6- to 12-year-old children with epilepsy (n=162; 99 males, 63 females) and in an age- and sex-matched control group (n=107; 62 males, 45 females). Approximately 35% of the children with epilepsy had severe non-verbal cognitive problems. In those that did not, mild cognitive problems (26% vs 11%, p=0.005), EF problems (31% vs 11%, p<0.001), and psychosocial problems (45% vs 10%, p<0.001) were each much more common than among controls. Having problems in two or all three of these areas simultaneously was more frequent among the children with epilepsy (14% vs. 3%, p<0.001 and 4% vs 0%, p<0.001 respectively). Excluding those having remote symptomatic epilepsy aetiology did not change the problem load significantly for the children with epilepsy with the important exception that having severe non-verbal problems was approximately halved from 35 to 18%. In 30 children with benign epilepsy of childhood with centrotemporal spikes, mild cognitive problems were somewhat more common, but psychosocial and EF problems were similar compared with control children.}, }
@article {pmid18606931, year = {2008}, author = {Stein, AD and Wang, M and DiGirolamo, A and Grajeda, R and Ramakrishnan, U and Ramirez-Zea, M and Yount, K and Martorell, R}, title = {Nutritional supplementation in early childhood, schooling, and intellectual functioning in adulthood: a prospective study in Guatemala.}, journal = {Archives of pediatrics &amp; adolescent medicine}, volume = {162}, number = {7}, pages = {612-618}, pmid = {18606931}, issn = {1538-3628}, support = {R01 HD046125/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 TW005598/TW/FIC NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HD-046125/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 TW-05598/TW/FIC NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Beverages ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/epidemiology/etiology ; *Dietary Supplements ; *Educational Measurement ; Energy Intake ; Female ; Guatemala/epidemiology ; Humans ; Infant ; *Infant Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; Infant, Newborn ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Nutrition Assessment ; Prospective Studies ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To estimate the association of improved nutrition in early life with adult intellectual functioning, controlling for years of schooling.<br><br>DESIGN: Prospective cohort study.<br><br>SETTING: Four villages in Guatemala, as well as locations within Guatemala to which cohort members migrated.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: Individuals who had participated as children in a nutrition supplementation intervention trial from March 1, 1969, through February 28, 1977 (N = 2392). From May 1, 2002, through April 30, 2004, adequate information for analysis was obtained from 1448 of 2118 individuals (68.4%) not known to have died.<br><br>INTERVENTIONS: Individuals exposed to atole (a protein-rich enhanced nutrition supplement) at birth through age 24 months were compared with those exposed to the supplement at other ages or to fresco, a sugar-sweetened beverage. We measured years of schooling by interview.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Scores on the Serie Interamericana (InterAmerican Series) tests of reading comprehension and the Raven Progressive Matrices, obtained from May 1, 2002, through April 30, 2004.<br><br>RESULTS: In models controlling for years of schooling and other predictors of intellectual functioning, exposure to atole at birth to age 24 months was associated with an increase of 3.46 points (95% confidence interval, -1.26 to 8.18) and 1.74 points (95% confidence interval, 0.53-2.95) on the InterAmerican Series and Raven Progressive Matrices tests, respectively. There was no statistical interaction between exposure to atole at birth to age 24 months and years of schooling on either outcome (P = .24 and P = .60, respectively).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Improved early-life nutrition is associated with increased intellectual functioning in adulthood after taking into account the effect of schooling.}, }
@article {pmid18606008, year = {2008}, author = {Bouden, M and Moulin, B and Gosselin, P}, title = {The geosimulation of West Nile virus propagation: a multi-agent and climate sensitive tool for risk management in public health.}, journal = {International journal of health geographics}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {35}, pmid = {18606008}, issn = {1476-072X}, mesh = {Animals ; Climate ; Computer Simulation ; Crows/growth &amp; development/*virology ; Culex/growth &amp; development/*virology ; Decision Making, Computer-Assisted ; Disease Outbreaks/prevention &amp; control ; Geographic Information Systems ; Humans ; Insect Vectors/growth &amp; development/*virology ; *Models, Biological ; Quebec/epidemiology ; Risk Management/methods ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*virology ; West Nile virus/*growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Since 1999, the expansion of the West Nile virus (WNV) epizooty has led public health authorities to build and operate surveillance systems in North America. These systems are very useful to collect data, but cannot be used to forecast the probable spread of the virus in coming years. Such forecasts, if proven reliable, would permit preventive measures to be put into place at the appropriate level of expected risk and at the appropriate time. It is within this context that the Multi-Agent GeoSimulation approach has been selected to develop a system that simulates the interactions of populations of mosquitoes and birds over space and time in relation to the spread and transmission of WNV. This simulation takes place in a virtual mapping environment representing a large administrative territory (e.g. province, state) and carried out under various climate scenarios in order to simulate the effects of vector control measures such as larviciding at scales of 1/20,000 or smaller.<br><br>RESULTS: After setting some hypotheses, a conceptual model and system architecture were developed to describe the population dynamics and interactions of mosquitoes (genus Culex) and American crows, which were chosen as the main actors in the simulation. Based on a mathematical compartment model used to simulate the population dynamics, an operational prototype was developed for the Southern part of Quebec (Canada). The system allows users to modify the parameters of the model, to select various climate and larviciding scenarios, to visualize on a digital map the progression (on a weekly or daily basis) of the infection in and around the crows' roosts and to generate graphs showing the evolution of the populations. The basic units for visualisation are municipalities.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In all likelihood this system might be used to support short term decision-making related to WNV vector control measures, including the use of larvicides, according to climatic scenarios. Once fully calibrated in several real-life contexts, this promising approach opens the door to the study and management of other zoonotic diseases such as Lyme disease.}, }
@article {pmid18605440, year = {2008}, author = {Robbins, MS and Horigian, VE and Szapocznik, J}, title = {[Brief strategic family therapy: an empirically-validated intervention for reducing adolescent behavior problems].}, journal = {Praxis der Kinderpsychologie und Kinderpsychiatrie}, volume = {57}, number = {5}, pages = {381-400}, doi = {10.13109/prkk.2008.57.5.381}, pmid = {18605440}, issn = {0032-7034}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Child Behavior Disorders/diagnosis/psychology/*rehabilitation ; Education/methods ; Family Relations ; Family Therapy/*methods ; Humans ; Psychotherapy, Brief/*methods ; Substance-Related Disorders/diagnosis/psychology/*rehabilitation ; Systems Theory ; }, abstract = {Brief Strategic Family Therapy (BSFT) is an empirically-supported treatment for children and adolescents with behavior problems and substance use problems. For three decades, the efficacy and effectiveness of BSFT has been established through the results of rigorous clinical trials studies conducted at the University of Miami's Center for Family Studies. BSFT is based on family systems approaches, most notably the work of Salvador Minuchin and Jay Haley, but has been refined to meet the pressing needs of youth with behavior problems. BSFT theory and interventions cover four broad domains: joining with family members and the family system, assessing problematic family interactions, creating a motivational context for change, and restructuring family interactions.}, }
@article {pmid18603313, year = {2008}, author = {da Rocha, FF and Malloy-Diniz, L and Lage, NV and Romano-Silva, MA and de Marco, LA and Correa, H}, title = {Decision-making impairment is related to serotonin transporter promoter polymorphism in a sample of patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder.}, journal = {Behavioural brain research}, volume = {195}, number = {1}, pages = {159-163}, doi = {10.1016/j.bbr.2008.05.015}, pmid = {18603313}, issn = {1872-7549}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Decision Making/*physiology ; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ; Female ; Gambling/psychology ; Genotype ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder/*genetics/*physiopathology/psychology ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; *Polymorphism, Genetic ; Promoter Regions, Genetic/*genetics ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; Serotonin Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins/*genetics ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Decision-making impairment is an important feature of some psychiatric disorders, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and substance-use disorders, and is associated with dysfunction of the fronto-subcortical circuit, mainly the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC). Several data reports support significant correlations between decision-making impairment and the serotonin system. Thus, this neurotransmission system may be a major step in some cognitive features, particularly in OCD because serotonin is associated with this disorder. Therefore, the serotonin transporter promoter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) may be related to the modulation of these cognitive characteristics. In a sample of Caucasian OCD patients, we explored the link between decision-making and the 5-HTTLPR.<br><br>METHOD: We used the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) to measure decision-making in 49 OCD patients, according to the DSM-IV criteria. All patients were submitted to Y-BOCS, BDI, BAI, the Raven Progressive Matrices, the Continuous Performance Task, and the Trail Making Test. We grouped S- and/or Lg-carriers in view of the fact that these act in a nearly dominant way.<br><br>RESULTS: On IGT, S- and/or Lg-carriers had significantly lower scores on the third, fourth, and fifth blocks. These findings were confirmed after adjusting for clinical and cognitive variables.<br><br>DISCUSSION: Inconclusive findings about the link between OCD and 5-HTTLPR may be better elucidated by studying OCD subgroups that could be more related in some genetic characteristics. Based on our study, low performance on IGT is associated with S- and/or Lg-carriers.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our results corroborate the hypothesis that the pattern of neuropsychological functioning observed in previous studies may constitute a biological marker or heritable endophenotype of OCD.}, }
@article {pmid18600373, year = {2008}, author = {de Assis Montenegro Cido Carvalho, F and Vieira da Silva, V and Moreira, AA and Viana, FO}, title = {Definitive treatment for crow's feet wrinkles by total myectomy of the lateral Orbicularis Oculi.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {32}, number = {5}, pages = {779-82; discussion 7783-4}, doi = {10.1007/s00266-008-9206-y}, pmid = {18600373}, issn = {1432-5241}, mesh = {Blepharoplasty/methods ; Esthetics ; Facial Muscles/*surgery ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; Risk Assessment ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; *Skin Aging ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: A common dissatisfaction after rhytidoplasty are the remaining lateral eyelid wrinkles also known as crow's feet.<br><br>METHODS: This article presents an analysis of the enlarged myectomy of the orbicularis oculi muscle used for the definitive treatment of crow's feet in 105 patients during face lifting. Myectomy involved all the lateral portion of the orbicularis oculi muscle exposed after the undermining of the face, corresponding to about one third of the whole orbital extension of the muscle. To avoid depression in the area of the excision, a free graft from the superficial musculoaponeurotic system was performed with the blepharoplasty.<br><br>RESULTS: The reduction of the crow's feet was significant during the subsequent 5 years of follow-up.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The enlarged myectomy allowed the treatment of a larger area in the wrinkled region without increasing the complications and with excellent results.}, }
@article {pmid18592042, year = {2008}, author = {Spironelli, C and Angrilli, A and Stegagno, L}, title = {Failure of language lateralization in schizophrenia patients: an ERP study on early linguistic components.}, journal = {Journal of psychiatry &amp; neuroscience : JPN}, volume = {33}, number = {3}, pages = {235-243}, pmid = {18592042}, issn = {1488-2434}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Antipsychotic Agents/therapeutic use ; Brain/*physiopathology ; Electroencephalography ; Evoked Potentials/*physiology ; Female ; Functional Laterality/*physiology ; Humans ; *Language ; Language Disorders/*etiology ; *Linguistics ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Reaction Time ; Schizophrenia/*complications/drug therapy/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: In line with Crow's hypothesis, altered hemispheric lateralization of language would cause the main symptoms of schizophrenia. The present experiment aimed to demonstrate the loss of the hemispheric specialization for linguistic processing in schizophrenia patients at the level of early automatic evoked potentials (N150).<br><br>METHODS: A sample of 10 outpatients with schizophrenia treated with low levels of neuroleptics and 10 matched healthy control subjects were administered 3 linguistic tasks based on stimulus pair comparisons (phonological, semantic and word-picture matching tasks). Laterality scores of early evoked potentials were analyzed during 2 time windows corresponding to the N150- and N400-like components.<br><br>RESULTS: The patients failed to develop the typical left hemispheric N150 component evoked by the first word (S1), which was consistently achieved by the healthy control group in posterior sites (p < 0.01). The effect was specific and stable for linguistic stimuli. As well, for the N150 elicited by the target stimulus (S2), the patients exhibited a lack of linguistic lateralization. In the control task (word-picture matching task), in which S2 was a picture, the 2 groups revealed very similar bilateral recognition potentials.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results point to a failure of language lateralization in patients with schizophrenia, a deficit involving those linguistic networks automatically activated in the earliest phase of word recognition (N150). Consistent with the current view of schizophrenia, this finding may be related to lack of integration among specific processes and reduced interconnection of underlying linguistic networks.}, }
@article {pmid18588695, year = {2008}, author = {McCormack, JE and Bowen, BS and Smith, TB}, title = {Integrating paleoecology and genetics of bird populations in two sky island archipelagos.}, journal = {BMC biology}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {28}, pmid = {18588695}, issn = {1741-7007}, mesh = {Animals ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; Ecology ; *Ecosystem ; *Genetic Variation ; *Geography ; Haplotypes ; Ice Cover ; Microsatellite Repeats ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Mutation/genetics ; NADH Dehydrogenase/genetics ; Passeriformes/*genetics/physiology ; Time Factors ; Trees ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Genetic tests of paleoecological hypotheses have been rare, partly because recent genetic divergence is difficult to detect and time. According to fossil plant data, continuous woodland in the southwestern USA and northern Mexico became fragmented during the last 10,000 years, as warming caused cool-adapted species to retreat to high elevations. Most genetic studies of resulting 'sky islands' have either failed to detect recent divergence or have found discordant evidence for ancient divergence. We test this paleoecological hypothesis for the region with intraspecific mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite data from sky-island populations of a sedentary bird, the Mexican jay (Aphelocoma ultramarina). We predicted that populations on different sky islands would share common, ancestral alleles that existed during the last glaciation, but that populations on each sky island, owing to their isolation, would contain unique variants of postglacial origin. We also predicted that divergence times estimated from corrected genetic distance and a coalescence model would post-date the last glacial maximum.<br><br>RESULTS: Our results provide multiple independent lines of support for postglacial divergence, with the predicted pattern of shared and unique mitochondrial DNA haplotypes appearing in two independent sky-island archipelagos, and most estimates of divergence time based on corrected genetic distance post-dating the last glacial maximum. Likewise, an isolation model based on multilocus gene coalescence indicated postglacial divergence of five pairs of sky islands. In contrast to their similar recent histories, the two archipelagos had dissimilar historical patterns in that sky islands in Arizona showed evidence for older divergence, suggesting different responses to the last glaciation.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study is one of the first to provide explicit support from genetic data for a postglacial divergence scenario predicted by one of the best paleoecological records in the world. Our results demonstrate that sky islands act as generators of genetic diversity at both recent and historical timescales and underscore the importance of thorough sampling and the use of loci with fast mutation rates to studies that test hypotheses concerning recent genetic divergence.}, }
@article {pmid18576864, year = {2009}, author = {Bush, SE and Harbison, CW and Slager, DL and Peterson, AT and Price, RD and Clayton, DH}, title = {Geographic variation in the community structure of lice on western scrub-jays.}, journal = {The Journal of parasitology}, volume = {95}, number = {1}, pages = {10-13}, doi = {10.1645/GE-1591.1}, pmid = {18576864}, issn = {0022-3395}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology ; Lice Infestations/epidemiology/parasitology/*veterinary ; Oregon/epidemiology ; Passeriformes/*parasitology ; Phthiraptera/*classification ; Prevalence ; Southwestern United States/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Parasites are incredibly diverse. An important factor in the evolution of this diversity is the fact that many parasite species are restricted to 1, or just a few, host species. In addition, some parasites exhibit geographic specificity that is nested within their specificity to a particular species of host. The environmental factors that restrict parasites to particular regions within the host's range are poorly understood, and it is often difficult to know whether such patterns of geographic specificity are real, or merely artifacts of uneven host sampling. For over a decade, we sampled communities of ectoparasitic lice (Phthiraptera) from western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) throughout their range in the United States, and found 3 common species of lice. Philopterus crassipes was found throughout the host range, whereas the other 2 species of lice had more restricted distributions. Brueelia deficiens was found only on the woodhouseii host subspecies group, and Myrsidea sp. was found largely on the californica host subspecies group. We suggest that differential tolerance to arid conditions and interspecific competition has led to the restricted geographic distributions of these 2 species of lice.}, }
@article {pmid18569536, year = {2008}, author = {Otto-Salaj, L and Reed, B and Brondino, MJ and Gore-Felton, C and Kelly, JA and Stevenson, LY}, title = {Condom use negotiation in heterosexual African American adults: responses to types of social power-based strategies.}, journal = {Journal of sex research}, volume = {45}, number = {2}, pages = {150-163}, pmid = {18569536}, issn = {0022-4499}, support = {P30 MH052776/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R03 MH058522-02/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R03-MH58522/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R03 MH058522-01/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; P30-MH52776/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Black or African American/*psychology ; Condoms/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Contraception Behavior ; Female ; Heterosexuality/psychology ; Humans ; Interpersonal Relations ; Male ; Negotiating/*psychology ; Power, Psychological ; Safe Sex/*psychology ; Sex Factors ; Sexual Partners/*psychology ; Social Perception ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {This study examined gender differences and preferences in the use of and response to six different styles of condom use negotiation with a hypothetical sexual partner of the opposite gender. Participants were 51 heterosexually active African American adults attending an inner-city community center. Participants completed a semistructured qualitative interview in which they were presented with six negotiation strategies based on Raven's 1992 Power/Interaction Model of Interpersonal Influence. Results showed that female participants responded best to referent, reward, and legitimate strategies, and worst to informational tactics. Male participants responded best to reward strategies, and worst to coercion to use condoms. Further, responses given by a subset of participants indicated that use of negotiation tactics involving coercion to use condoms may result in negative or angry reactions. Response to strategies may vary with the value of the relationship as viewed by the target of negotiation. Implications for HIV prevention efforts are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid18569261, year = {2008}, author = {de Boulle, K}, title = {Patient satisfaction with different botulinum toxin type A formulations in the treatment of moderate to severe upper facial rhytids.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {87-92}, doi = {10.1080/14764170701854679}, pmid = {18569261}, issn = {1476-4180}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Cross-Over Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Patient Satisfaction ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The clinical characteristics of botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA) depend on the formulation used.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether switching BoNTA formulations affects patient satisfaction.<br><br>METHODS: Forty patients enrolled and all were satisfied or extremely satisfied with Allergan BoNTA (BoNTA-Allergan) treatment in the glabellar+/-crow's feet+/-forehead area(s) in the preceding 6 months. Once improvement from this previous treatment had started to diminish, treatment was replicated using Ipsen BoNTA (BoNTA-Ipsen) at a 1:2.5 dose ratio.<br><br>RESULTS: The incidence of patients rating treatment as effective or very effective in making them look younger, look rested, and look less stressed was significantly higher with BoNTA-Allergan than BoNTA-Ipsen--83% versus 36%, 90% versus 39%, and 83% versus 33%, respectively--even though evaluations were performed a mean of 20 weeks after BoNTA-Allergan treatment and only 16 weeks after BoNTA-Ipsen treatment. The incidence of patients who were satisfied or extremely satisfied was 100% (BoNTA-Allergan) versus 31% (BoNTA-Ipsen). BoNTA-Allergan was preferred by 69% of patients.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Efficacy, satisfaction, and product preference ratings strongly favor the use of BoNTA-Allergan over BoNTA-Ipsen in the treatment of upper facial lines. Many patients who are satisfied with BoNTA-Allergan treatment become less satisfied if they are switched to BoNTA-Ipsen.}, }
@article {pmid18568663, year = {2008}, author = {Turpin, EA and Stallknecht, DE and Slemons, RD and Zsak, L and Swayne, DE}, title = {Evidence of avian metapneumovirus subtype C infection of wild birds in Georgia, South Carolina, Arkansas and Ohio, USA.}, journal = {Avian pathology : journal of the W.V.P.A}, volume = {37}, number = {3}, pages = {343-351}, doi = {10.1080/03079450802068566}, pmid = {18568663}, issn = {1465-3338}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Birds ; Metapneumovirus/*classification ; Paramyxoviridae Infections/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; United States/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Metapneumoviruses (MPVs) were first reported in avian species (aMPVs) in the late 1970s and in humans in 2001. Although aMPVs have been reported in Europe and Asia for over 20 years, the virus first appeared in the United States in 1996, leaving many to question the origin of the virus and why it proved to be a different subtype from those found elsewhere. To examine the potential role of migratory waterfowl and other wild birds in aMPV spread, our study focused on determining whether populations of wild birds have evidence of aMPV infection. Serum samples from multiple species were initially screened using a blocking enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Antibodies to aMPVs were identified in five of the 15 species tested: American coots, American crows, Canada geese, cattle egrets, and rock pigeons. The presence of aMPV-specific antibodies was confirmed with virus neutralization and western blot assays. Oral swabs were collected from wild bird species with the highest percentage of aMPV-seropositive serum samples: the American coots and Canada geese. From these swabs, 17 aMPV-positive samples were identified, 11 from coots and six from geese. Sequence analysis of the matrix, attachment gene and short hydrophobic genes revealed that these viruses belong to subtype C aMPV. The detection of aMPV antibodies and the presence of virus in wild birds in Georgia, South Carolina, Arkansas and Ohio demonstrates that wild birds can serve as a reservoir of subtype C aMPV, and may provide a potential mechanism to spread aMPVs to poultry in other regions of the United States and possibly to other countries in Central and South America.}, }
@article {pmid18567356, year = {2008}, author = {Arimura, K and Hashiguchi, T and Watanabe, O}, title = {[Crow-Fukase syndrome and VEGF].}, journal = {Brain and nerve = Shinkei kenkyu no shinpo}, volume = {60}, number = {6}, pages = {611-619}, pmid = {18567356}, issn = {1881-6096}, mesh = {Animals ; Axons/pathology ; Biomarkers/blood ; Blood-Nerve Barrier/pathology ; Humans ; Mice ; Microcirculation/pathology ; POEMS Syndrome/*diagnosis/*etiology/pathology/therapy ; Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation ; Peripheral Nerves/blood supply/pathology ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/*blood/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Crow-Fukase syndrome is diagnosed based on the presence of chronic sensori-motor polyneuropathy along with other characteristic generalized symptoms denoted by the acronym of POEMS which stands for polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M-protein, and skin changes. In this syndrome, the serum levels of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are abnormally elevated, and this is a predictive factor for its diagnosis. Although the causes of CFS/POEMS remain unknown, VEGF is evidently correlated with its pathogenesis. Human glioblastoma cells are known to express VEGF. In models of CFS/POEMS, mice that are peritoneally transplanted with human glioblastomas exhibit high serum levels of VEGF, prominent edema with increased circulation volume, and pathological findings in the liver, spleen, and kidney. VEGF that is highly concentrated in platelets may be released in massive amounts due to coagulation in the peripheral tissue and may thus exert its maximal physiological effects and produce the abovementioned diffuse pathological findings. The correlation between polyneuropathy and elevated VEGF remains unclear. However, VEGF may affect the blood-nerve barrier by increased microvascular hyperpermeability, upregulated cytokines such as matrix metalloproteases may induce blood-nerve barrier breakdown and demyelination of the peripheral nerve. Furthermore, microangiopathy due to proliferative endothelial cells and hypercoagulated occlusion also affect axonal damage. Novel strategies that have recently been proposed for the management of this disease include high-dose chemotherapy combined with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSCT) and molecular-targeted therapy against plasma cells and VEGF. Notably, PBSCT exerts a dramatic effect on polyneuropathy; such an effect has rarely been achieved by the previously described modalities of low-dose melphallan and steroid therapy. PBSCT is observed to induce a rapid and persistent decrease in the serum VEGF levels. In conclusion, VEGF is not only the primary molecule involved in the pathogenesis of CSF, but also an important marker for both the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.}, }
@article {pmid18567355, year = {2008}, author = {Kanda, T}, title = {[Pathology of Crow-Fukase syndrome].}, journal = {Brain and nerve = Shinkei kenkyu no shinpo}, volume = {60}, number = {6}, pages = {603-610}, pmid = {18567355}, issn = {1881-6096}, mesh = {Axons/pathology ; Blood-Nerve Barrier/pathology ; Demyelinating Diseases/pathology ; Edema ; Endothelial Cells/pathology ; Humans ; Hyperplasia ; Microcirculation/pathology ; Nerve Degeneration/pathology ; POEMS Syndrome/etiology/*pathology ; Peripheral Nerves/blood supply/pathology ; Peripheral Nervous System/blood supply/*pathology ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/blood ; }, abstract = {Although the exact mechanisms underlying peripheral neuropathy in Crow-Fukase syndrome (CFS), also known as POEMS syndrome, remain obscure, careful scrutiny of the pathological changes in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and systemic organs by using biopsy and autopsy materials may provide useful information regarding the pathogenesis and future therapeutics of the syndrome. In this review, previous biopsy/autopsy studies on CFS were systematically reviewed and the details of the pathological changes in the PNS and vascular system were noted. Most biopsied nerves revealed the characteristics of axonal degeneration and demyelination together; however, the nerve roots obtained at autopsy showed massive demyelination with few axonal changes. This morphological discrepancy can be interpreted as primary demyelination in the proximal PNS and secondary axonal degeneration in the distal PNS. Another histological hallmark of the syndrome is edema in the endoneurial space. Changes in the endoneurial and epineurial microvessels, including hyperplasia of endothelial cells, were occasionally observed. Endoneurial edema and microvascular changes can be attributed to the high serum concentration of vascular endothelial growth factor in this disorder, and the derangement in endoneurial homeostasis due to impaired blood-nerve barrier can be considered a possible pathomechanism underlying peripheral neuropathy in the CFS.}, }
@article {pmid18567354, year = {2008}, author = {Misawa, S}, title = {[Electrophysiologic aspects of Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome--significance in early diagnosis and insights into the pathophysiology].}, journal = {Brain and nerve = Shinkei kenkyu no shinpo}, volume = {60}, number = {6}, pages = {595-601}, pmid = {18567354}, issn = {1881-6096}, mesh = {Angiogenesis Inhibitors/therapeutic use ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use ; Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized ; Bevacizumab ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Early Diagnosis ; Electrophysiology ; Humans ; Neovascularization, Pathologic ; Neural Conduction ; POEMS Syndrome/*diagnosis/*etiology/physiopathology/therapy ; Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation ; Peripheral Nerves/blood supply/physiopathology ; Plasmacytoma/metabolism ; Thalidomide/therapeutic use ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/blood/metabolism ; }, abstract = {POEMS (polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M-protein, and skin changes) syndrome is a rare cause of demyelinating and axonal mixed neuropathy with multiorgan involvement. The presence of polyneuropathy is mandatory for the diagnosis of POEMS syndrome, and progressive neuropathy results in the deterioration of patients' quality of life. Although the pathophysiology of nerve damage has not yet been elucidated, nerve conduction abnormalities exhibit characteristic, patterns that can be summarized by a number of features including (1) slow nerve conduction diffusely distributed in the intermediate nerve segment, (2) relatively preserved nerve conduction near the distal nerve terminals, (3) prominent axonal loss in distal lower extremity nerves, and (4) no conduction blocks. These features are useful in differential diagnosis of POEMS syndrome from chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) and neuropathy associated with anti-myelin-associated glycoprotein antibody. The pathogenesis of POEMS syndrome is not well understood; however overproduction of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), probably secreted by plasmacytoma, may be responsible for most of the characteristic symptoms, including neuropathy. The patterns of nerve conduction abnormalities suggest that demyelination and axonal degeneration are caused by some serum neurotoxic substances in serum that cannot access the nerve parenchyma under physiological conditions. Elevated serum VEGF level would result in increased permeability and breakdown of the blood-nerve barrier. In addition, endoneurial or perineurial vascular proliferation with altered hematocoaglabilty could partly play a role in the pathogenesis of neuropathy in POEMS syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid18553113, year = {2008}, author = {Osvath, M and Osvath, H}, title = {Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) and orangutan (Pongo abelii) forethought: self-control and pre-experience in the face of future tool use.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {661-674}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-008-0157-0}, pmid = {18553113}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; *Choice Behavior ; *Concept Formation ; *Discrimination Learning ; Female ; Forecasting ; Goals ; *Intention ; Male ; Pan troglodytes/psychology ; Pongo pygmaeus/psychology ; Probability Learning ; Problem Solving ; Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Planning for future needs has traditionally been considered to be restricted to human cognition. Although recent studies on great ape and corvid cognition challenge this belief, the phylogenesis of human planning remains largely unknown. The complex skill for future planning has not yet been satisfactorily established in any other extant primate species than our own. In humans, planning for future needs rely heavily on two overarching capacities, both of which lie at the heart of our cognition: self-control, often defined as the suppression of immediate drives in favor of delayed rewards, and mental time travel, which could be described as a detached mental experience of a past or future event. Future planning is linked to additional high complexity cognition such as metacognition and a consciousness usually not attributed to animals. In a series of four experiments based on tool use, we demonstrate that chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) and orangutans (Pongo abelii) override immediate drives in favor of future needs, and they do not merely rely on associative learning or semantic prospection when confronted with a planning task. These results suggest that great apes engage in planning for the future by out competing current drives and mentally pre-experiencing an upcoming event. This suggests that the advanced mental capacities utilized in human future planning are shared by phylogenetically more ancient species than previously believed.}, }
@article {pmid18546533, year = {2008}, author = {Zheng, F and Zhu, H and Jiang, YJ}, title = {[Psychological behavior of girls with idiopathic central precocious puberty before and after treatment with gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue].}, journal = {Zhejiang da xue xue bao. Yi xue ban = Journal of Zhejiang University. Medical sciences}, volume = {37}, number = {3}, pages = {289-294}, doi = {10.3785/j.issn.1008-9292.2008.03.013}, pmid = {18546533}, issn = {1008-9292}, mesh = {Child ; Dehydroepiandrosterone/blood ; Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate/blood ; Female ; Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone/*analogs &amp; derivatives/therapeutic use ; Humans ; Puberty, Precocious/*drug therapy/*psychology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To observe the psychological behavior of girls with idiopathic central precocious puberty (ICPP) before and after treatment by gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue (GnRHa).<br><br>METHODS: Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices(SPM), Achenbach's Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), Self-Esteem Scale (SES), and Body-Esteem Scale (BES) were used to assess the psychological behavior in the ICPP girls before and after GnRHa treatment, as well as in control girls. The serum levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) were measured by ELISA before and after GnRHa treatment.<br><br>RESULT: (1) The SES and BES scores in ICPP were significantly lower than those of controls(P <0.05). The CBCL scores in depressed, withdrawn,aggressive and somatic complaint assessment were significantly higher in ICPP group than those of control group. (2) The SES score, the body strength scores for BES 12 months after treatment were significantly higher than those pretreatment (P <0.05). Serum DHEA levels in ICPP group and control group were Log(0.77 +/-0.36)microg/L and Log (0.28 +/-0.22) microg/L respectively, with a significant difference (P <0.01). Serum DHEA and DHEAS of ICPP 3 months after treatment were decreased from Log(0.83 +/-0.35)microg/L and Log(2.27 +/-0.30)microg/L to Log(0.68 +/-0.44)microg/L and Log (2.11 +/-0.43)microg/L (both P <0.05). The serum DHEA and DHEAS levels 12 months after treatment were Log(0.78 +/-0.30)microg/L and Log(2.40 +/-0.34)microg/L, there was no significant difference before and after treatment (P >0.05). (3) The SES score,the weight concern and body strength scores for BES were negatively correlated with serum DHEA and DHEAS levels in precocious puberty girls (r=-0.492,-0.356,-0.202 and -0.216, all P <0.05). The nine CBCL factors were not correlated with serum DHEA levels.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Precocious puberty girls are prone to lower self-esteem and less confidence, which are correlated with the increase of serum DHEA levels. There is more frequency to be depressed, withdrawn, aggressive and complaining in these girls, however, which are not correlated with serum DHEA levels. GnRHa may reverse the problem of psychological behavior in ICPP girls.}, }
@article {pmid18545553, year = {2008}, author = {Morichetti, F and Melloni, A and Ferrari, C and Martinelli, M}, title = {Error-free continuously-tunable delay at 10 Gbit/s in a reconfigurable on-chip delay-line.}, journal = {Optics express}, volume = {16}, number = {12}, pages = {8395-8405}, doi = {10.1364/oe.16.008395}, pmid = {18545553}, issn = {1094-4087}, mesh = {Computer Simulation ; Equipment Design ; Equipment Failure Analysis ; Microwaves ; *Models, Theoretical ; Optics and Photonics/*instrumentation ; Scattering, Radiation ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted/*instrumentation ; Silicon Compounds/*chemistry ; Systems Integration ; Telecommunications/*instrumentation ; *Transducers ; Vibration ; }, abstract = {A coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) consisting of a chain of directly coupled ring-resonators (RRs) fabricated in 4.5%-indexcontrast silicon oxynitride technology is employed to control the delay of optical pulses with continuity and over several bit-slots. The moderate deterioration of the signal quality versus the delay is demonstrated by the observation of error-free transmission (BER < 10(-9)) at 10 Gbit/s for fractional delays of up to 3 bits, with fractional losses below 1 dB per bit-delay. The high storage efficiency of the device, exceeding 0.5 bit/RR, enables an easy management of the delay and the reduction of the footprint down to 7 mm(2). The presented reconfiguration scheme is hitless with respect to data transmission, since the CROW delay can be tuned without halting the data flow, while preserving the signal quality.}, }
@article {pmid18544512, year = {2008}, author = {McCormack, JE and Smith, TB}, title = {Niche expansion leads to small-scale adaptive divergence along an elevation gradient in a medium-sized passerine bird.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {275}, number = {1647}, pages = {2155-2164}, pmid = {18544512}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Biological ; Animals ; Beak/anatomy &amp; histology ; DNA, Mitochondrial/chemistry ; Diet ; Environment ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Gene Flow ; *Genetic Speciation ; Genetic Variation ; Geography ; Male ; Microsatellite Repeats ; Passeriformes/anatomy &amp; histology/genetics/*physiology ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Niche expansion can lead to adaptive differentiation and speciation, but there are few examples from contemporary niche expansions about how this process is initiated. We assess the consequences of a niche expansion by Mexican jays (Aphelocoma ultramarina) along an elevation gradient. We predicted that jays at high elevation would have straighter bills adapted to feeding on pine cones, whereas jays at low elevation would have hooked bills adapted to feeding on acorns. We measured morphological and genetic variation of 95 adult jays and found significant differences in hook length between elevations in accordance with predictions, a pattern corroborated by analysis at the regional scale. Genetic results from microsatellite and mtDNA variation support phenotypic differentiation in the presence of gene flow coupled with weak, but detectable genetic differentiation between high- and low-elevation populations. These results demonstrate that niche expansion can lead to adaptive divergence despite gene flow between parapatric populations along an elevation gradient, providing information on a key precursor to ecological speciation.}, }
@article {pmid18528719, year = {2008}, author = {Waite, TA}, title = {Preference for oddity: uniqueness heuristic or hierarchical choice process?.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {707-713}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-008-0162-3}, pmid = {18528719}, issn = {1435-9456}, mesh = {Animals ; Awareness ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Choice Behavior ; *Color Perception ; *Decision Making ; Passeriformes ; *Recognition, Psychology ; Risk Assessment ; }, abstract = {Traditional economic theories assume decision makers in multialternative choice tasks "assign" a value to each option and then express rational preferences. Here, I report an apparent violation of such rationality in gray jays (Perisoreus canadensis). I tested the jays' preference in a quaternary choice task where three options were the same color and the fourth option was a different color. All options offered an identical food reward and so the strictly rational expectation was that subjects would choose the odd-colored option in 25% of choices. In clear disagreement, every subject chose the odd option more frequently than expected. I speculate as to how this surprising preference for oddity might have been ecologically rational: by using a unique-choice heuristic, the jays might have been able to bypass a deliberative phase of the decision process and devote more attention to scanning for predators. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the jays did not prefer oddity per se. Instead, they might have used a hierarchical process, assigning options to color categories and then choosing between categories. If so, their behavior matches expectation after all (on average, subjects chose the odd option 50% of the time). It should be straightforward to test these competing hypotheses. The current results can be viewed as a new example of how simple mechanisms sometimes produce economically puzzling yet ecologically rational decision making.}, }
@article {pmid18516169, year = {2008}, author = {Mitsui, T and Wakayama, Y and Onodera, T and Takaya, Y and Oikawa, H}, title = {Observation of light propagation across a 90 degrees corner in chains of microspheres on a patterned substrate.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {33}, number = {11}, pages = {1189-1191}, doi = {10.1364/ol.33.001189}, pmid = {18516169}, issn = {0146-9592}, abstract = {To demonstrate light-path manipulation in arbitrary shapes we fabricated coupled-resonator optical waveguides (CROWs) having a 90 degrees-corner structure on a lithographically patterned substrate. The spectra of propagation light within the CROWs were directly measured by guide-collection-mode near-field scanning optical microscopy. The spectra revealed that the propagation light through the CROWs has a larger transverse-magnetic polarization mode than a transverse-electric (TE) one. The most plausible cause of the lower intensity in the TE mode is that light leaks out to the Si substrate.}, }
@article {pmid18505230, year = {2008}, author = {Heuvelink, AE and Zwartkruis, JT and van Heerwaarden, C and Arends, B and Stortelder, V and de Boer, E}, title = {[Pathogenic bacteria and parasites in wildlife and surface water].}, journal = {Tijdschrift voor diergeneeskunde}, volume = {133}, number = {8}, pages = {330-335}, pmid = {18505230}, issn = {0040-7453}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/*microbiology/*parasitology ; Disease Reservoirs/microbiology/parasitology/veterinary ; Feces/microbiology/parasitology ; Humans ; *Public Health ; Risk Assessment ; Seasons ; Water/*parasitology ; *Water Microbiology ; }, abstract = {In the period October 2003 to August 2005, 897 faecal samples were collected from wild animals and examined for Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp., and Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC) O157, the prevalence of which was found to be 0.1%, 13.8%, and 0.5 %, respectively. Campylobacter spp. were isolated mainly from faecal samples collected from corvidae (59.8%), and meadow birds and waterfowl (22.4%). A subset of these samples was also examined for Cryptosporidium and Giardia oocysts and cysts. None of the 247 samples examined contained C. parvum oocysts, and only 1 sample (roe faeces) contained G. lamblia assemblage A cysts. In the period September to November 2006, samples of running or still surface water were collected at 10 sites on 5 days, to investigate the presence of Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp., and STEC O157. Twenty (40.8%) of the surface water samples were positive for one or more bacterial pathogens. Seven (14.3%) samples were positiveforSalmonella spp., 14 (28.6%) samples were positive for Campylobacter spp., and 1 (2.0%) sample was positivefor E. coli O157. Samples collected at only 2 of the 10 sites were negative for the pathogens tested; samples collected at the other 8 sites were positive for the pathogens at least once. To gain a better picture of the potential human health risk, this study should be followed up with a more quantitative study of the occurrence of human pathogens in wildlife, taking into account the different natural habitats and behaviour of the different animal populations and a possible seasonal effect. Furthermore, the contamination of surface water with human pathogens should be investigated more extensively.}, }
@article {pmid18504626, year = {2008}, author = {Scheid, C and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Short-term observational spatial memory in Jackdaws (Corvus monedula) and Ravens (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {691-698}, pmid = {18504626}, issn = {1435-9456}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Association Learning ; Crows ; *Discrimination Learning ; Humans ; Imitative Behavior ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Orientation ; *Recognition, Psychology ; Social Environment ; Space Perception ; *Spatial Behavior ; }, abstract = {Observational spatial memory (OSM) refers to the ability of remembering food caches made by other individuals, enabling observers to find and pilfer the others' caches. Within birds, OSM has only been demonstrated in corvids, with more social species such as Mexican jays (Aphelocoma ultramarine) showing a higher accuracy of finding conspecific' caches than less social species such as Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana). However, socially dynamic corvids such as ravens (Corvus corax) are capable of sophisticated pilfering manoeuvres based on OSM. We here compared the performance of ravens and jackdaws (Corvus monedula) in a short-term OSM task. In contrast to ravens, jackdaws are socially cohesive but hardly cache and compete over food caches. Birds had to recover food pieces after watching a human experimenter hiding them in 2, 4 or 6 out of 10 possible locations. Results showed that for tests with two, four and six caches, ravens performed more accurately than expected by chance whereas jackdaws did not. Moreover, ravens made fewer re-visits to already inspected cache sites than jackdaws. These findings suggest that the development of observational spatial memory skills is linked with the species' reliance on food caches rather than with a social life style per se.}, }
@article {pmid18503461, year = {2000}, author = {Lagarde, JM and Black, D and Gall, Y and Del Pozo, A}, title = {Image analysis of scaly skin using Dsquame(R) samplers: technical and physiological validation.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {53-65}, doi = {10.1046/j.1467-2494.2000.00002.x}, pmid = {18503461}, issn = {1468-2494}, abstract = {An image analysis-based technique for evaluating skin scaliness using Dsquame(R) instant testers is presented, with four surface texture parameters characterizing this condition. Studies on the variability of the technique were carried out to determine the influence of instrumental and physiological factors. Parameters of texture, optical density, number and surface area of squames are calculated from images of obliquely lit Dsquame(R) samples. Repeated measurements were done on artificial and real samples to determine instrumental and sample variability, respectively. In addition, the technique was used in a volunteer study to assess anatomical differences and seasonal variation. For five consecutive measurement days, the artificial samples remained stable, with coefficients of variation for repeatability and reproducibility of less than 8% for all parameters. During the same period, the real samples showed decreases mainly in those parameters of texture and optical density. In the volunteer study, the calf showed significantly higher values (more scaly) in December than July, with no seasonal change in forearm or crow's foot area sites. Assessments of Dsquame(R) instant tester samples using image analysis-derived parameters provides information on the quantity and quality of skin scaliness or flakiness. As such, it is a useful tool for studying desquamation. The technique presented is repeatable and reproducible; however, samples need to be analysed the same day to avoid deterioration problems. Anatomical differences have been demonstrated, with, in addition, the calf showing marked winter/summer changes in comparison to the face and forearm.}, }
@article {pmid18502608, year = {2008}, author = {Valet, F and Guinot, C and Ezzedine, K and Mary, JY}, title = {Quality assessment of ordinal scale reproducibility: log-linear models provided useful information on scale structure.}, journal = {Journal of clinical epidemiology}, volume = {61}, number = {10}, pages = {983-990}, doi = {10.1016/j.jclinepi.2007.11.004}, pmid = {18502608}, issn = {1878-5921}, mesh = {Adenoma/pathology ; Biopsy ; Colorectal Neoplasms/pathology ; Data Interpretation, Statistical ; Female ; Helicobacter Infections/pathology ; Helicobacter pylori ; Humans ; *Linear Models ; Observer Variation ; *Reproducibility of Results ; Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: In health research, ordinal scales are extensively used. Reproducibility of ratings using these scales is important to assess their quality. This study aimed to compare two methods analyzing reproducibility: weighted Kappa statistic and log-linear models.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: Contributions of each method to the reproducibility assessment of ratings using ordinal scales were compared using intra- and interobserver data chosen in three different fields: Crow's feet scale in dermatology, dysplasia scale in oncology, updated Sydney scale in gastroenterology.<br><br>RESULTS: Both methods provided an agreement level. In addition, log-linear models allowed evaluation of the structure of agreement. For the Crow's feet scale, both methods gave equivalent high agreement levels. For the dysplasia scale, log-linear models highlighted scale defects and Kappa statistic showed a moderate agreement. For the updated Sydney scale, log-linear models underlined a null distinguishability between two adjacent categories, whereas Kappa statistic gave a high global agreement level.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Methods that can investigate level and structure of agreement between ordinal ratings are valuable tools, since they may highlight heterogeneities within the scales structure and suggest modifications to improve their reproducibility.}, }
@article {pmid18502593, year = {2008}, author = {Dufour, V and Sterck, EH}, title = {Chimpanzees fail to plan in an exchange task but succeed in a tool-using procedure.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {79}, number = {1}, pages = {19-27}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2008.04.003}, pmid = {18502593}, issn = {0376-6357}, mesh = {Animals ; Choice Behavior/physiology ; Female ; Imitative Behavior/physiology ; Learning/physiology ; Male ; Pan troglodytes/*physiology/psychology ; Problem Solving ; Reward ; *Social Behavior ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Planning has long been considered a uniquely human capacity. Lately, however, it has been shown that apes and a corvid species act now to derive a material future benefit. Since primates are highly social animals and their sociality is considered a strong selective force that resulted in complex cognitive capacities, planning is also expected in social situations. Unfortunately, prompting from social partners cannot be excluded in a social setting. Therefore, we controlled for this factor by testing the capacity to plan in chimpanzees using an exchange paradigm, that involves both a material and a social component, and a tool-use paradigm, similar to the one used on two other ape species. All chimpanzees failed to plan in the exchange task, but three individuals showed planning behavior in the tool-use task. Our methods controlled for the fact that chimpanzees were not prompted by the visibility of the reward at the moment of planning and also could not repeat a previously acquired routine. The best interpretation for our results is that chimpanzees can plan. However, planning was limited to the situation where the action to attain the future benefit only depended on a chimpanzee's own behavior.}, }
@article {pmid18499223, year = {2008}, author = {Charlestra, L and Courtemanch, DL and Amirbahman, A and Patterson, H}, title = {Semipermeable membrane device (SPMD) for monitoring PCDD and PCDF levels from a paper mill effluent in the Androscoggin River, Maine, USA.}, journal = {Chemosphere}, volume = {72}, number = {8}, pages = {1171-1180}, doi = {10.1016/j.chemosphere.2008.03.057}, pmid = {18499223}, issn = {0045-6535}, mesh = {Benzofurans/*analysis ; Dibenzofurans, Polychlorinated ; Environmental Monitoring ; Geography ; Industrial Waste/*analysis ; Maine ; *Paper ; Polychlorinated Dibenzodioxins/*analogs &amp; derivatives/analysis ; Rivers ; Water Pollutants, Chemical/*analysis ; }, abstract = {Paper mill effluents may contain polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) that are normally generated due to chlorinated bleaching of pulp and paper. We used the semipermeable membrane device (SPMD) to monitor PCDD/F levels upstream and downstream of a paper mill on the Androscoggin River, in Jay (ME). Following the 36 day deployment, SPMD dialysis and cleanup, the samples were analyzed by HRGC/HRMS. Total concentrations of PCDD/Fs in SPMDs (sum of all tetra-through octachlorinated congeners) ranged from 4.71 pg g(-1) to 26.26 pg g(-1). Five out of the targeted 17 toxic congeners were detected, including: 2,3,7,8-TCDF; 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDF; 2,3,4,7,8-PeCDF; 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDD and OCDD. Permeability reference compounds (PRCs) were used for in situ calibration of the SPMD sampling rate (Rs). In all sites, water concentrations were the highest for OCDD (0.081-0.103 pg l(-1)), and the lowest for 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDF (0.005-0.009 pg l(-1)). There was not a consistent pattern of upstream-downstream gradient in the PCDD/F levels. This suggested that processes other than the mill in Jay (multiple sources, river dynamics) governed the flux of PCDD/Fs in the sampling locations. The SPMD results were validated by comparison to other studies on the Androscoggin River and elsewhere, confirming the potential of the device as a useful monitoring technique for PCDD/Fs in large river systems.}, }
@article {pmid18498946, year = {2008}, author = {Koboroff, A and Kaplan, G and Rogers, LJ}, title = {Hemispheric specialization in Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen) shown as eye preferences during response to a predator.}, journal = {Brain research bulletin}, volume = {76}, number = {3}, pages = {304-306}, doi = {10.1016/j.brainresbull.2008.02.015}, pmid = {18498946}, issn = {1873-2747}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; *Dominance, Cerebral ; *Eye ; *Passeriformes ; Predatory Behavior ; Visual Pathways/physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Brain lateralization in birds is frequently expressed as a preference to view stimuli with one eye using the lateral monocular visual field. As few studies have investigated lateralized behaviour in wild birds, we scored eye preferences of Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen) performing anti-predator responses. When animals deal with potential predators by mobbing them, constant assessment is needed to consider whether to approach, mob or withdraw. When presented with a taxidermic specimen of a monitor lizard, the magpies assembled on the ground close to the lizard and circled, pecked, jumped over, viewed and approached, or withdrew from it. Using video footage, the monocular fixations prior to or during performance of these activities were scored and the following significant eye preferences were found. Prior to withdrawing, the magpies viewed the lizard with the left eye (LE) (85% of events). Prior to approaching, the right eye (RE) was used (72%). Hence, the left hemisphere is used to process visual inputs prior to approaching the predator and the right hemisphere prior to withdrawing from it. This result is consistent with hemispheric specialization shown in other species, including humans. The LE was used also prior to jumping (73%) and prior to circling (65%), as well as during circling (58%) and for high alert inspection of the predator (72%). Mobbing and perhaps circling are agonistic responses controlled by the LE/right hemisphere, as also seen in other species. Alert inspection involves detailed examination of the predator and likely high levels of fear, known to be right hemisphere function.}, }
@article {pmid18498938, year = {2008}, author = {Kaplan, G}, title = {Alarm calls and referentiality in Australian magpies: between midbrain and forebrain, can a case be made for complex cognition?.}, journal = {Brain research bulletin}, volume = {76}, number = {3}, pages = {253-263}, doi = {10.1016/j.brainresbull.2008.02.006}, pmid = {18498938}, issn = {1873-2747}, mesh = {Adaptation, Biological ; Animals ; Cognition/*physiology ; Humans ; Learning/physiology ; Mesencephalon/*physiology ; Predatory Behavior ; Prosencephalon/*physiology ; *Songbirds ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {The ability to communicate intentionally and referentially about predators by issuing specific and unique alarm calls per predator type, usually considered indicative of forebrain activity, is generally regarded as evidence of complex cognition. However, the neurobiology of such expressions is not well-understood and the relationship of song to alarm calls is not clear. In the very few studies of brain activity in calls of non-songbirds and songbirds so far, it was found that it is only the midbrain that is involved in the production of calls. The paper argues that such midbrain activity, even in so-called referential signalling, may have been misconstrued as higher cognition when, in fact, it may be merely indicative of a well-preserved (even 'clever') midbrain survival mechanism of prey species, and may be based on instantaneous 'non-thinking' activities of the midbrain. This does not rule out that, in specific species of songbird and in specific types of calls, the production of alarm calls may indeed involve activity and interaction of nuclei in midbrain and forebrain. Such a possible interaction in the production of vocalisations (unlearned and learned) has also been shown in some songbirds, including the zebra finch. A study of alarm calls in Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen), a prolific songbird, is used here to give an example of possible considered responses in alarm calling based on behavioural evidence.}, }
@article {pmid18489289, year = {2006}, author = {Abella, ML}, title = {Evaluation of anti-wrinkle efficacy of adenosine-containing products using the FOITS technique.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {28}, number = {6}, pages = {447-451}, doi = {10.1111/j.1467-2494.2006.00349.x}, pmid = {18489289}, issn = {1468-2494}, abstract = {The objective of this study was to evaluate formulations containing adenosine to reduce periorbital lines and glabellar frowns in a blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study. One hundred twenty-six female volunteers between 45 and 65 years of age fulfilled inclusion criteria for periorbital lines. They were provided with two of three products (cream with adenosine, dissolvable film with adenosine or placebo), to be applied to the periorbital area on each side of the face (84 subjects per product). Eighty-four of these subjects also fulfilled the inclusion criteria for glabellar frowns, and received placebo or cream with adenosine to be applied to the glabellar area. Products were applied twice daily for 2 months, and evaluation was performed under dermatological supervision at 0, 3 and 8 weeks using Fast Optical in vivo Topometry of human Skin (FOITS) analysis to describe skin profile. Both adenosine-containing products led to significant improvements in skin smoothness in the periorbital area. Improvements were evidenced after 3 weeks of product application as measured by Ra and Rz parameters using the FOITS technique, and were steadily confirmed after 2 months, despite severe climatic conditions and independently of the analysis technique that was used with the FOITS data. Adenosine-containing cream also significantly improved glabellar frowns. This study demonstrates the potential beneficial effects of adenosine-containing products on crow's feet and glabellar facial wrinkles.}, }
@article {pmid18484006, year = {1998}, author = {Farkas, T and Maeda, K and Sugiura, H and Kai, K and Hirai, K and Otsuki, K and Hayashi, T}, title = {A serological survey of chickens, Japanese quail, pigeons, ducks and crows for antibodies to chicken anaemia virus (CAV) in Japan.}, journal = {Avian pathology : journal of the W.V.P.A}, volume = {27}, number = {3}, pages = {316-320}, doi = {10.1080/03079459808419344}, pmid = {18484006}, issn = {0307-9457}, abstract = {The chicken has been considered as the natural host for chicken anaemia virus (CAV). To examine the prevalence of CAV in domestic and wild birds in Japan, we analyzed serum samples collected from 211 chickens, 168 Japanese quail, 105 pigeons, 113 ducks and 116 crows for the presence of antibodies to CAV by a micro-scale virus neutralization (VN) test. Nine of the 13 chicken flocks (69.2%) were found to be positive for VN antibodies to CAV. Of the 211 individual chicken serum samples, 127 (60.2%) were positive. VN antibodies were detected in 103 of the 168 (61.3%) quail samples with titres ranging from 1:20 to >/= 1:2560. Serum samples collected from quail in 1992 were found to possess a lower rate of antibody-positive sera (7.7%) and lower antibody titres (1:20 to 1:80) than those collected in 1995 (90.2% and 1:20 to >/= 1:2560, respectively). None of the pigeon, duck and crow samples neutralized CAV at a 1:20 dilution. These results indicate that quail might be one of the hosts of CAV or CAV-like virus in Japan. This is the first report of VN antibodies to CAV in a species other than chicken.}, }
@article {pmid18461081, year = {2008}, author = {Toon, A and Hughes, JM}, title = {Are lice good proxies for host history? A comparative analysis of the Australian magpie, Gymnorhina tibicen, and two species of feather louse.}, journal = {Heredity}, volume = {101}, number = {2}, pages = {127-135}, doi = {10.1038/hdy.2008.37}, pmid = {18461081}, issn = {1365-2540}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; Feathers/*parasitology ; Genetic Variation ; Genetics, Population ; Haplotypes ; *Host-Parasite Interactions ; Insect Proteins/genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Passeriformes/*parasitology ; Phthiraptera/classification/*genetics ; Phylogeny ; Selection, Genetic ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Parasites have been recently advocated as useful proxies for unravelling a complex evolutionary history of a host. In the present study, two species of feather lice, Brueelia semiannulata and Philopterus sp. were analysed for mitochondrial variation and compared to mitochondrial and nuclear variation in their host, the Australian magpie Gymnorhina tibicen. Phylogenies constructed using maximum likelihood methods revealed geographic structuring for both species of feather lice and host. Our genetic analysis shows concordance of east-west structure between host and Philopterus sp. indicating that it is an informative proxy for host history. Analysis of the Philopterus sp. phylogeny also suggested cryptic structuring within the eastern magpie population that had not been previously realized through genetic analysis of the host. B. semiannulata however, did not show congruent phylogeographic structuring with the host. Rather than showing an east-west split between lineages, the phylogeny of B. semiannulata showed north-south geographic structuring. It is postulated that this incongruence may be due to ecological habitat differences and/or the dispersal ability of B. semiannulata.}, }
@article {pmid18458322, year = {2008}, author = {Shirafuji, H and Kanehira, K and Kubo, M and Shibahara, T and Kamio, T}, title = {Experimental West Nile virus infection in jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {78}, number = {5}, pages = {838-842}, pmid = {18458322}, issn = {1476-1645}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Crows/*virology ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Viral Plaque Assay ; Viremia/blood ; West Nile Fever/blood/*physiopathology/veterinary ; *West Nile virus/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {We experimentally infected jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos), which are representative corvids in East Asia, with West Nile virus (WNV) to study their susceptibility toward WNV infection. Six jungle crows were subcutaneously inoculated with 1,000 plaque-forming units (PFU) of the WNV NY99 strain. Within 7 days after inoculation, five of the six infected crows died, and peak viremias ranged from 10(6.5) to 10(10.9) PFU/mL serum. In addition, infected crows shed WNV in the oral cavity and cloaca, and the virus was widely disseminated in the organs of the crows. Based on these findings, we conclude that jungle crows are highly susceptible to WNV infection, and they could serve as amplifying hosts in the transmission of WNV. Although WNV has not been detected in East Asia, the virus could spread rapidly on introduction into this region because of the large number of potential amplifying hosts and vector mosquitoes that inhabit this region.}, }
@article {pmid18454876, year = {2008}, author = {Macintyre, S and Macdonald, L and Ellaway, A}, title = {Lack of agreement between measured and self-reported distance from public green parks in Glasgow, Scotland.}, journal = {The international journal of behavioral nutrition and physical activity}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {26}, pmid = {18454876}, issn = {1479-5868}, support = {MC_U130059821/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Reviews have reported mixed findings for associations between physical activity and proximity to a range of environmental resources. Initially most studies used self reported proximity, but more are now using GIS techniques to measure proximity objectively. We know little about the extent of agreement between self reported and directly measured proximity of the same resource.<br><br>METHODS: We used previously collected data in a community survey in Glasgow in which 658 respondents aged around 40 and 60 were asked whether they lived within half a mile of a public park. We compared their answers with GIS measures of whether there was a park within a half mile service area of their home (and whether their home was within a half mile crow fly buffer of a park).<br><br>RESULTS: Agreement was poor; percentage agreement between measured network distance and reported residence within 0.5 miles of a park was 62.0%, and the kappa value was 0.095. Agreement was no higher than poor in any socio-demographic subgroup, or when using crow fly buffers instead of service areas.<br><br>CONCLUSION: One should be cautious about assuming that respondents' self reports of proximity to a resource are a valid proxy for actual distance, or vice versa. Further research is needed to establish whether actual or self-reported proximity predict physical activity or other behaviours, and if so which is the strongest predictor. Further, qualitative study, also needs to examine the basis of people's judgements about the location of resources, and the possibility that these are shaped by their social and personal significance.}, }
@article {pmid18454450, year = {2009}, author = {Rezaie, R and Daly, EM and Cutter, WJ and Murphy, DG and Robertson, DM and DeLisi, LE and Mackay, CE and Barrick, TR and Crow, TJ and Roberts, N}, title = {The influence of sex chromosome aneuploidy on brain asymmetry.}, journal = {American journal of medical genetics. Part B, Neuropsychiatric genetics : the official publication of the International Society of Psychiatric Genetics}, volume = {150B}, number = {1}, pages = {74-85}, doi = {10.1002/ajmg.b.30772}, pmid = {18454450}, issn = {1552-485X}, support = {G0701127/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {*Aneuploidy ; Brain/*abnormalities ; Female ; Humans ; Klinefelter Syndrome/genetics ; Male ; *Sex Chromosomes ; Turner Syndrome/genetics ; }, abstract = {The cognitive deficits present in individuals with sex chromosome aneuploidies suggest that hemispheric differentiation of function is determined by an X-Y homologous gene [Crow (1993); Lancet 342:594-598]. In particular, females with Turner's syndrome (TS) who have only one X-chromosome exhibit deficits of spatial ability whereas males with Klinefelter's syndrome (KS) who possess a supernumerary X-chromosome are delayed in acquiring words. Since spatial and verbal abilities are generally associated with right and left hemispheric function, such deficits may relate to anomalies of cerebral asymmetry. We therefore applied a novel image analysis technique to investigate the relationship between sex chromosome dosage and structural brain asymmetry. Specifically, we tested Crow's prediction that the magnitude of the brain torque (i.e., a combination of rightward frontal and leftward occipital asymmetry) would, as a function of sex chromosome dosage, be respectively decreased in TS women and increased in KS men, relative to genotypically normal controls. We found that brain torque was not significantly different in TS women and KS men, in comparison to controls. However, TS women exhibited significantly increased leftward brain asymmetry, restricted to the posterior of the brain and focused on the superior temporal and parietal-occipital association cortex, while KS men showed a trend for decreased brain asymmetry throughout the frontal lobes. The findings suggest that the number of sex chromosomes influences the development of brain asymmetry not simply to modify the torque but in a complex pattern along the antero-posterior axis.}, }
@article {pmid18454005, year = {2008}, author = {Knoll, BI and Attkiss, KJ and Persing, JA}, title = {The influence of forehead, brow, and periorbital aesthetics on perceived expression in the youthful face.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {121}, number = {5}, pages = {1793-1802}, doi = {10.1097/PRS.0b013e31816b13fe}, pmid = {18454005}, issn = {1529-4242}, mesh = {Adult ; Aging/*physiology ; Emotions ; *Esthetics ; Eyebrows/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Eyelids/*anatomy &amp; histology ; *Facial Expression ; Female ; Forehead/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Humans ; Male ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; Skin Aging/physiology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to characterize the relative influence of eyebrow position and shape, lid position, and facial rhytides on perceived facial expression as related to blepharoplasty, with a specific focus on the perception of tiredness.<br><br>METHODS: A standardized photograph of a youthful upper face was modified using digital imaging software to independently alter a number of variables: brow position/shape, upper/lower lid position, pretarsal show, and rhytides. Subjects (n = 20) were presented with 16 images and asked to quantify, on a scale from 0 to 5, the presence of each of seven expressions/emotions as follows: "surprise," "anger," "sadness," "disgust," "fear," "happiness," and "tiredness."<br><br>RESULTS: Statistically significant values for tiredness were achieved by changes of increasing and decreasing the pretarsal skin crease, lowering the upper eyelid, and depressing the lateral brow. Happiness was perceived by elevation of the lower lid or the presence of crow's feet. Brow shape had a greater influence than absolute position on perceived expression. Elevation of the lateral brow was perceived as surprise, whereas depression of the medial brow and rhytides at the glabella were perceived as anger and disgust. Elevation of the medial brow elicited a minimal increase for sadness.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that the perception of tiredness is most affected by the length of pretarsal lid height (e.g., ptosis). Surprisingly, simulating the skin resection of an upper blepharoplasty results in a paradoxical increase in the perception of tiredness as well. Modifications of brow contour elicit profound changes in perceived facial mood to a greater degree than absolute brow position.}, }
@article {pmid18342124, year = {2008}, author = {Gassia, V}, title = {[Botulinum toxin A in the treatment of the wrinkles in the upper third of the face].}, journal = {Annales de dermatologie et de venereologie}, volume = {135 Suppl 3}, number = {}, pages = {S175-80}, doi = {10.1016/S0151-9638(08)70077-2}, pmid = {18342124}, issn = {0151-9638}, mesh = {*Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage ; *Face ; Facial Muscles ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; *Neuromuscular Agents/administration &amp; dosage ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {The practice of botulinum toxin injections is unavoidable in the correction of facial aging. In effect botulinum toxin allows to erase dynamic wrinkles, by transient and reversible muscular relaxation. This is the best wrinkle treatment for the upper part of the face: glabellar lines, horizontal forehead lines and crow's feet. This technique requires a good understanding of facial muscular anatomy, in order to correctly apply the basics of injection. Every patient is unique and only a big experience will allow to refine and personalise injections.}, }
@article {pmid18452433, year = {2008}, author = {Lee, J and Jung, E and Lee, H and Seo, Y and Koh, J and Park, D}, title = {Evaluation of the effects of a preparation containing asiaticoside on periocular wrinkles of human volunteers.}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {167-173}, doi = {10.1111/j.1468-2494.2008.00440.x}, pmid = {18452433}, issn = {1468-2494}, mesh = {Administration, Cutaneous ; Adult ; Double-Blind Method ; Emollients/administration &amp; dosage ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; Triterpenes/*administration &amp; dosage ; }, abstract = {Skin ageing is accompanied by wrinkle formation. In particular, periorbital wrinkle formation is a relatively early sign of skin ageing. We evaluated the effects of a preparation containing asiaticoside on the periorbital wrinkles of a group of volunteers. The effectiveness of the active compound, asiaticoside, in a base-cream preparation for the treatment of temporal periorbital wrinkles was tested on 27 female volunteers as follows: the women applied the cream twice a day to the region of interest for 12 weeks. Same women also applied a vehicle control cream to the periorbital skin around the other eye. Negative replicas were taken of the periorbital skin before treatment and 4, 8, and 12 weeks after application of the cream. The results were evaluated by semi-automated morphometry of the plastic replicas. After 12 weeks of treatment, there was a significant improvement of the periorbital wrinkles in majority of the volunteers who tested the cream. Of the 27 women examined with periocular wrinkles, 65% showed an improvement at the end of the treatment. In three cases, the improvement was 100% (disappearance of the crow's feet), 75% +/- 1.97 and 79% +/- 2.82. On six eyes, there was no significant change after the treatment. With 12 weeks of treatment with the asiaticoside-containing cream, most of the periorbital wrinkles were attenuated to some degree, and some women experienced a significant improvement of the periorbital wrinkles on one of their eyes.}, }
@article {pmid18448271, year = {2008}, author = {de Vreeze, RS and de Jong, D and Haas, RL and Stewart, F and van Coevorden, F}, title = {Effectiveness of radiotherapy in myxoid sarcomas is associated with a dense vascular pattern.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {72}, number = {5}, pages = {1480-1487}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijrobp.2008.03.008}, pmid = {18448271}, issn = {1879-355X}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Chondrosarcoma/classification/pathology/radiotherapy/surgery ; Combined Modality Therapy ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Leiomyosarcoma/classification/*pathology/*radiotherapy/surgery ; Liposarcoma, Myxoid/classification/*pathology/*radiotherapy/surgery ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/pathology ; Neoplasm Staging ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: Surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) have long been the standard treatment for most deep-seated sarcomas; however, since the randomized trial from the National Cancer Institute of Canada, which described similar local control for pre- vs. postoperative RT, both modalities are now widely accepted. As a group, sarcomas are classified as radiation resistant. The subgroup of myxoid liposarcoma (MLS), a sarcoma with a typical vascular crow's feet pattern, is highly radiosensitive, but a mechanism for this phenomenon is unknown. Here we describe our results with preoperative RT and propose a mechanism explaining the high sensitivity based on the distinctive vascularization pattern of MLS.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: Between 2002 and 2006, 31 sarcoma patients, including 10 with MLS, underwent preoperative RT at our institute. Resected specimens were histologically evaluated, focusing on classification, grade, and vascularization patterns.<br><br>RESULTS: Twenty sarcomas showed more than 80% pathologic response after preoperative RT. A pathologic complete response was found in all "pure" MLS specimens after preoperative RT (n = 8). There were no pathologic complete responses in the remaining sarcoma patients (n = 23), although 12 showed 80% to 90% pathologic response. In contrast to the remaining RT-resistant sarcomas, the highly responding specimens contained branching vasculature, partial thrombus formation and inflammation of medium sized arterioles, similar to the vascular changes in MLS.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Both MLS and sarcomas with MLS-like vasculature are highly radiosensitive. Radiation sensitivity may be explained by changes in medium-sized arterioles, obstructing the specific crow's feet vascularization and inducing hypoxia with secondary tumor cell death.}, }
@article {pmid18440242, year = {2008}, author = {Kirsch, JA and Güntürkün, O and Rose, J}, title = {Insight without cortex: lessons from the avian brain.}, journal = {Consciousness and cognition}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {475-483}, doi = {10.1016/j.concog.2008.03.018}, pmid = {18440242}, issn = {1090-2376}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; *Cognition ; *Crows ; Mammals ; Memory ; Prosencephalon/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Insight is a cognitive feature that is usually regarded as being generated by the neocortex and being present only in humans and possibly some closely related primates. In this essay we show that especially corvids display behavioral skills within the domains of object permanence, episodic memory, theory of mind, and tool use/causal reasoning that are insightful. These similarities between humans and corvids at the behavioral level are probably the result of a convergent evolution. Similarly, the telencephalic structures involved in higher cognitive functions in both species show a high degree of similarity, although the forebrain of birds has no cortex-like lamination. The neural substrate for insight-related cognitive functions in mammals and birds is thus not necessarily based on a laminated cortical structure but can be generated by differently organized forebrains. Hence, neither is insight restricted to mammals, as predicted from a "scala naturae", nor is the laminated cortex a prerequisite for the highest cognitive functions.}, }
@article {pmid18434093, year = {2008}, author = {Crow, TJ}, title = {Craddock &amp; Owen vs Kraepelin: 85 years late, mesmerised by "polygenes".}, journal = {Schizophrenia research}, volume = {103}, number = {1-3}, pages = {156-160}, doi = {10.1016/j.schres.2008.03.001}, pmid = {18434093}, issn = {0920-9964}, support = {//Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Base Sequence/genetics ; Bipolar Disorder/classification/diagnosis/*genetics/*history ; Epigenesis, Genetic/*genetics ; Genetic Linkage/genetics ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Multifactorial Inheritance/*genetics ; Psychotic Disorders/classification/diagnosis/*genetics/*history ; Schizophrenia/classification/diagnosis/*genetics/*history ; Twin Studies as Topic ; }, abstract = {The case for replacing the binary Kraepelinian system with a continuum concept originated with Kraepelin [Kraepelin, E. (1920) Die Erscheinungsformen des Irreseins (translated by H Marshall as: Patterns of mental disorder. In: Themes and Variations in European Psychiatry. Eds S.R. Hirsch &amp; M. Shepherd. Wright, Bristol, pp7-30, l974). Zeitschrift Gesamte Neurologie Psychiatrie, vol. 62, 1-29.], and is based upon studies of familial aggregation and phenomenology. Craddock and Owen's [Craddock, N.J., Owen, M.J. (2007) Rethinking psychosis: the disadvantages of a dichotomous classification now outweigh the advantages. World Psychiatry 6: 20-27.] claim for the "beginning of the end for the Kraepelinian dichotomy" on the basis of linkage and association is undermined by un-replicability of findings across studies (Crow, T.J. (2007) How and why genetic linkage has not solved the problem of psychosis: review and hypothesis. American Journal of Psychiatry, 164, 13-21). Absence of evidence of linkage is consistent with the concept that the variation is epigenetic in form rather than DNA sequence-based. But what are the dimensions that underly the continuum? The BBC Internet survey (Peters, M., Reimers, S., Manning, J.T. (2006) Hand preference for writing and associations with selected demographic and behavioral variables in 255,100 subjects: the BBC internet study. Brain and Cognition 62, 177-189), reinforces the concept that lateralisation is a major and sex-dependent dimension of human variation in verbal and spatial ability: twin studies indicate that inter-individual variation in dominance for language is epigenetic and the paternal age effect can be similarly explained. Thus an epigenetic imprint, arising in relation to the sapiens specific torque and persisting over one or two generations is a better fit to the genetics of the psychotic continuum than Craddock and Owen's elusive "polygenic" variations.}, }
@article {pmid18433332, year = {2008}, author = {Hubálek, Z and Wegner, E and Halouzka, J and Tryjanowski, P and Jerzak, L and Sikutová, S and Rudolf, I and Kruszewicz, AG and Jaworski, Z and Wlodarczyk, R}, title = {Serologic survey of potential vertebrate hosts for West Nile virus in Poland.}, journal = {Viral immunology}, volume = {21}, number = {2}, pages = {247-253}, doi = {10.1089/vim.2007.0111}, pmid = {18433332}, issn = {0882-8245}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/*blood ; Birds ; Chickens ; Horses ; Neutralization Tests ; Poland/epidemiology ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; Viral Plaque Assay ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/*immunology ; West Nile virus/*immunology ; }, abstract = {A survey for antibodies to West Nile virus (WNV; genus ,Flavivirus) was carried out by plaque-re-duction neutralization microtesting in 78 horses, 20 domestic chickens, and 97 wild birds belonging to 10 species from different areas in Poland. Specific antibodies were detected in five juvenile (hatching-year) birds collected in 2006: three white storks (Ciconia ciconia) in a wildlife rehabilitation center (5.4% of all examined storks; the antibody titers in each bird were 1:320, 1:160, and 1:20), one free-living mute swan (Cygnus olor; the titer was 1:20), and one hooded crow (Corvus corone cornix; the titer 1:20) in a wildlife rehabilitation center; thus the overall seropositivity to WNV was 5.2% among all the birds sampled. These data do not rule out the presence of WNV activity in Poland with 100% certainty, but they indicate a significant trace that demands verification. In addition, one black-headed gull (Larus ridibundus) had neutralizing antibodies for the Usutu Flavivirus, the first case recorded in Poland.}, }
@article {pmid18430143, year = {2008}, author = {McCormack, JE and Peterson, AT and Bonaccorso, E and Smith, TB}, title = {Speciation in the highlands of Mexico: genetic and phenotypic divergence in the Mexican jay (Aphelocoma ultramarina).}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {17}, number = {10}, pages = {2505-2521}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2008.03776.x}, pmid = {18430143}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; *DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; *Genetic Variation ; Mexico ; Microsatellite Repeats/genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Phenotype ; Phylogeny ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Sequence Alignment ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {The pine-oak woodlands of the Mexican highlands harbour significant biological diversity, yet little is known about the evolutionary history of organisms inhabiting this region. We assessed genetic and phenotypic differentiation in 482 individuals representing 27 populations of the Mexican jay (Aphelocoma ultramarina) - a widespread bird species of the Mexican highlands - to test whether populations in the central and northern Mexican sierras display discrete breaks between groups, which would be consistent with a role for the different mountain chains in divergence and speciation. We found abrupt breaks in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA; ND2 and control region) delineating four major genetic groups found in the Sierra Madre Occidental, Sierra Madre Oriental, southern Central Plateau (Bajio), and Transvolcanic Belt. These mtDNA groups were largely corroborated by data from nuclear microsatellites and phenotypic data, except that clades from the Central Plateau and Sierra Madre Oriental showed clinal change in these data sets. Uncertainty about the mutation rate for our mitochondrial markers warrants considerable caution with regard to estimating divergence times, but the major genetic groups appear to have split before the most extreme period of glacial cycling that marked the last 0.7 million years and after Mexico's period of major mountain formation. The fact that some genetic breaks do not coincide with well-known geographic barriers suggests a role for ecology in divergence and speciation, and we discuss implications for taxonomy and conservation.}, }
@article {pmid18429473, year = {2008}, author = {Larkin, H}, title = {Your future chief of staff?.}, journal = {Hospitals &amp; health networks}, volume = {82}, number = {3}, pages = {30-4, 1}, pmid = {18429473}, issn = {1068-8838}, mesh = {Humans ; *Intergenerational Relations ; *Internet ; *Physician-Patient Relations ; United States ; }, abstract = {Jay Parkinson, M.D., is among the new breed of physicians focusing on Generation Y, young consumers whose assumptions about life could dramatically change health care. They're technically savvy, highly social, very independent--and they refuse to accept the status quo. Parkinson has built an officeless practice based on e-mails, cell phones and the Web. Some observers say other providers, including hospitals, should take heed.}, }
@article {pmid18419560, year = {2008}, author = {Dougherty, CO and Ross, WL and Young, KA}, title = {Ovarian activity is differentially regulated across the breeding season in immature compared with adult American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos).}, journal = {Physiological and biochemical zoology : PBZ}, volume = {81}, number = {3}, pages = {356-365}, doi = {10.1086/587095}, pmid = {18419560}, issn = {1537-5293}, support = {//Howard Hughes Medical Institute/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Breeding ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Ovary/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; *Seasons ; Sexual Maturation/*physiology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) reproduction is seasonal. While photoperiod alters reproductive physiology and behavior in nesting adults, whether seasonal photoperiod changes alter ovarian activity in nonnesting adult and immature birds was not known. Ovarian follicular composition was examined in immature and nonnesting adult crows. Birds were divided into groups reflecting daylight hour exposure when captured: 12L, 12:30L, 13:30L, and 14L, representing early-, progressing-, peak-, and postbreeding seasons in southern California. Adult ovarian mass peaked in 13:30L and then decreased 65% by 14L. In contrast, immature ovarian mass peaked in 12L and decreased 58% by 14L. Whereas no change in adult follicle composition occurred, primordial follicle numbers increased 42%, and previtellogenic follicles increased 86% in immatures, resulting in an overall follicle number increase in immatures by 13:30L and 14L. Adult atretic follicles declined 68% by 14L, while immature atretic follicle numbers remained constant. Adult apoptotic transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL)-positive follicle numbers remained constant until a 52% decrease occurred in 13:30L. TUNEL-positive follicles declined 58% by 12:30L among immatures. These data are the first to demonstrate that follicular composition is differentially regulated between nonnesting adult and immature American crows. Seasonal ovarian activity alterations in nonbreeding adults may serve to prime individuals for potential mating.}, }
@article {pmid18412947, year = {2008}, author = {Vaquero, E and Gómez, CM and Quintero, EA and González-Rosa, JJ and Márquez, J}, title = {Differential prefrontal-like deficit in children after cerebellar astrocytoma and medulloblastoma tumor.}, journal = {Behavioral and brain functions : BBF}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {18}, pmid = {18412947}, issn = {1744-9081}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study was realized thanks to the collaboration of children and adolescents who had been resected from cerebellar tumors. The medulloblastoma group (CE+, n = 7) in addition to surgery received radiation and chemotherapy. The astrocytoma group (CE, n = 13) did not receive additional treatments. Each clinical group was compared in their executive functioning with a paired control group (n = 12). The performances of the clinical groups with respect to controls were compared considering the tumor's localization (vermis or hemisphere) and the affectation (or not) of the dentate nucleus. Executive variables were correlated with the age at surgery, the time between surgery-evaluation and the resected volume.<br><br>METHODS: The executive functioning was assessed by means of WCST, Complex Rey Figure, Controlled Oral Word Association Test (letter and animal categories), Digits span (WISC-R verbal scale) and Stroop test. These tests are very sensitive to dorsolateral PFC and/or to medial frontal cortex functions. The scores for the non-verbal Raven IQ were also obtained. Direct scores were corrected by age and transformed in standard scores using normative data. The neuropsychological evaluation was made at 3.25 (SD = 2.74) years from surgery in CE group and at 6.47 (SD = 2.77) in CE+ group.<br><br>RESULTS: The Medulloblastoma group showed severe executive deficit (</= 1.5 SD below normal mean) in all assessed tests, the most severe occurring in vermal patients. The Astrocytoma group also showed executive deficits in digits span, semantic fluency (animal category) and moderate to slight deficit in Stroop (word and colour) tests. In the astrocytoma group, the tumor's localization and dentate affectation showed different profile and level of impairment: moderate to slight for vermal and hemispheric patients respectively. The resected volume, age at surgery and the time between surgery-evaluation correlated with some neuropsychological executive variables.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Results suggest a differential prefrontal-like deficit due to cerebellar lesions and/or cerebellar-frontal diaschisis, as indicate the results in astrocytoma group (without treatments), that also can be generated and/or increased by treatments in the medulloblastoma group. The need for differential rehabilitation strategies for specific clinical groups is remarked. The results are also discussed in the context of the Cerebellar Cognitive Affective Syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid18409682, year = {2007}, author = {Albini, E and Benedetti, L and Caruso, A and Marchetti, S and Nan, E and Zoni, S and Lucchini, R}, title = {[Occupational exposure to manganese in ferroalloy industry: neurobehavioral effects in a workers' cohort].}, journal = {Giornale italiano di medicina del lavoro ed ergonomia}, volume = {29}, number = {3 Suppl}, pages = {272-274}, pmid = {18409682}, issn = {1592-7830}, mesh = {Adult ; Behavior/*drug effects ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Manganese/*adverse effects ; *Metallurgy ; Middle Aged ; Nervous System/*drug effects ; Occupational Exposure/*adverse effects ; Population Surveillance ; }, abstract = {Our Institute has been following for 20 years a group of workers of a ferroalloy industry in order to evaluate neurobehavioral effects due to manganese exposure. Five years after the last study we have planned another one, to evaluate differences in neuromotor e cognitive functions between exposed and controls and to perform a longitudinal evaluation of the results. Environmental and biological sampling were collected, liver and kidney functionality, haemochrome, iron metabolism and sieric prolactine were evaluated. Several tests were administered: postural evaluation, tremor, four tests of the SPES battery, Pursuing Aiming, five tests of the Luria Nebraska Motor Battery, Raven Progressive Matrices, Trail Making Test, Mood Scale, Brief Symptoms Inventory, neuropsychological symptoms questionnaire. Personal habits and working, living and clinical histories were collected. We evaluated 43 exposed workers and 40 controls. Exposure indicators resulted all significantly higher in exposed workers. Neuropsychological examination showed differences in Raven Progressive Matrices and Pursuit Aiming, higher tremor values and differences in postural evaluation between exposed and controls.}, }
@article {pmid18408241, year = {2008}, author = {Pombo, S and Levy, P and Bicho, M and Ismail, F and Cardoso, JM}, title = {Neuropsychological function and platelet monoamine oxidase activity levels in type I alcoholic patients.}, journal = {Alcohol and alcoholism (Oxford, Oxfordshire)}, volume = {43}, number = {4}, pages = {423-430}, doi = {10.1093/alcalc/agn021}, pmid = {18408241}, issn = {1464-3502}, mesh = {Adult ; Alcoholism/*blood/*epidemiology ; Blood Platelets/*metabolism ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Monoamine Oxidase/*blood ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Prevalence ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {AIMS: To explore neuropsychological function in two differentiated patterns of platelet monoamine oxidase B (MAO B) activity in alcoholic patients.<br><br>METHODS: Neuropsychological examination and platelet MAO B activity extracted from blood were collected from 42 alcohol-dependent patients recruited in the alcoholism unit (NETER) of the Psychiatric Service of Santa Maria University Hospital.<br><br>RESULTS: Alcoholics presented significantly low levels of platelet MAO B activity, when compared with control subjects; platelet MAO B activity in alcoholics classified as "under average subgroup" showed significant lower scores in the Raven Progressive Matrix and higher scores in hostility dimension, when compared with platelet MAO B activity in "above average subgroup."<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Results suggested platelet MAO B as a trait marker also to type I alcohol-dependent patients and the two observed associations between platelet MAO B activity with neurocognitive measures of executive functions (nonverbal reasoning) and psychopathological dimension such as hostility may support the notion about the effect of platelet MAO B activity in the further development of an impulsive cognitive style.}, }
@article {pmid18406254, year = {1998}, author = {Mehta, AE}, title = {Androgen excess disorders in women.}, journal = {Trends in endocrinology and metabolism: TEM}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {129-130}, doi = {10.1016/s1043-2760(98)00030-7}, pmid = {18406254}, issn = {1043-2760}, abstract = {Edited by Ricardo Azziz, John E. Nestler and Didier Dewailly. Philadelphia, Lippencott-Raven, 1997, $152.00/ pound116.00 (xxv +831 pages), ISBN 0-397-51721-1.}, }
@article {pmid18401172, year = {2008}, author = {Shinagawa, S and Toyota, Y and Ishikawa, T and Fukuhara, R and Hokoishi, K and Komori, K and Tanimukai, S and Ikeda, M}, title = {Cognitive function and psychiatric symptoms in early- and late-onset frontotemporal dementia.}, journal = {Dementia and geriatric cognitive disorders}, volume = {25}, number = {5}, pages = {439-444}, doi = {10.1159/000124751}, pmid = {18401172}, issn = {1421-9824}, mesh = {Age of Onset ; Aged ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Dementia/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Japan ; Male ; Mental Status Schedule ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Outpatients ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND/AIM: Some recent studies mentioned that late-onset frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is more common than previously assumed. Although much research has been done in the field, there are no systematic studies which have compared clinical characteristics of early- and late-onset FTD. The aim of this study was to compare cognitive function and psychiatric symptoms in patients with early- and late-onset FTD.<br><br>METHODS: Study participants were consecutive outpatients. There were 35 FTD patients; their mean age at onset was 63.0 years. We studied sex, education, duration from onset to consultation, Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) scores, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores, Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) scores, and Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) scores at first consultation of early- and late-onset FTD patients.<br><br>RESULTS: There were no significant differences in sex ratio, education, CDR scores, and duration from onset to consultation. There were significant differences in the total MMSE scores, 'three-word recall task', 'construction task', and RCPM scores; late-onset groups scored significantly lower than early-onset groups. There were significant differences in the apathy domain of NPI and total NPI scores; late-onset groups scored significantly higher than early-onset groups.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Late-onset FTD patients may have memory and visuospatial deficits in addition to their behavioural changes, even if they are clinically diagnosed according to consensus diagnostic criteria. They also present more apathy, and they may have a different histolopathological background.}, }
@article {pmid18399444, year = {2007}, author = {El-Bahrawy, AA and Vijver, MG and De Snoo, GR}, title = {Threats and control of the brown necked ravens (Corvus ruficollis) in Egypt.}, journal = {Communications in agricultural and applied biological sciences}, volume = {72}, number = {2}, pages = {221-232}, pmid = {18399444}, issn = {1379-1176}, mesh = {4-Hydroxycoumarins/toxicity ; Animals ; Crows/*growth &amp; development ; Egypt ; Falconiformes/*physiology ; Female ; Food Preferences ; Male ; Oviposition ; Pest Control/*methods ; Pest Control, Biological ; Population Control/*methods ; Population Density ; Population Growth ; Predatory Behavior/physiology ; }, abstract = {The Suez Canal region is a small fertile area in Egypt that is placed under enormous pressure of existing resources. In these areas, intensive agricultural practices are performed in combination with high population densities. The described problem is that together with agricultural practices and urbanization, Brown necked ravens (Corvus ruficollis) are in huge amounts attracted. The birds are very aggressive and showed to be a serious pest. They spread germs and diseases for human health and food production. Therefore, the birds need to be controlled. Our research focuses on identifying food preferences of raven and on the way raven control is most effective. Ravens are omnivorous birds. From our laboratory study it was seen that most preferable foods were, in descending order: fresh fishes, cow liver, crustacean, watermelons, tomatoes and yoghurt. Under field conditions where stomach content was dissected, animal matters showed to a more preferred food source than plant matters. Observations on olfactory sensitivity showed that ravens could easily locate their food. Biological observations in the field on reproduction of ravens showed that raven females lay two to six eggs. Average number of babies per nest was between one and four. Average number of raven flock before sun rise was more than 100, while it was less than 100 before sun set. The impact of mechanical, biological and chemical control was investigated. Without control, approximately flock numbers of more than 100 ravens were recorded. The average number of raven flock was 60 before mechanical control operation (nests destroyed and using net), while it was 40 after mechanical control. Results of the biological control showed that kestrel (Falco tinnunculus rupicolaeformes) predated raven babies more effective than barn owls (Tyto alba). Within the chemical control experiments, Brodifacoum (0.0005%) was most effective against ravens, followed by Zink phosphide (19%) and Methomyl (90%, carbamate compound).}, }
@article {pmid18376384, year = {2008}, author = {Smith, AJ and Christopher, S and LaFromboise, VR and Letiecq, BL and McCormick, AK}, title = {Apsáalooke women's experiences with Pap test screening.}, journal = {Cancer control : journal of the Moffitt Cancer Center}, volume = {15}, number = {2}, pages = {166-173}, doi = {10.1177/107327480801500209}, pmid = {18376384}, issn = {1073-2748}, mesh = {Female ; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; Humans ; *Indians, North American ; *Mass Screening ; Patient Acceptance of Health Care ; Patient Satisfaction ; United States ; Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/*pathology ; *Vaginal Smears ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer mortality rates are among the highest in the United States for Northern Plains Native American women compared with white and other Native American women. The aims of Messengers for Health, a community-based participatory research project based on the Apsáalooke (Crow Indian) Reservation, are to decrease cervical cancer screening barriers, improve knowledge regarding screening and prevention, and increase the proportion of women receiving Pap tests. This paper presents results from a survey assessing women's perceptions of the level of comfort and care received by health care providers in their most recent Pap test appointment.<br><br>METHODS: A survey assessing patient communication and satisfaction with their health care providers was conducted with a random sample of 101 Aps&#xe1;alooke women. Qualitative and quantitative methods were utilized to analyze the survey data.<br><br>RESULTS: Women reported both positive and negative experiences with their provider regarding their Pap test appointments. They noted positive experiences when trust was established and when the provider offered information, reassured or encouraged them, was personable, was familiar or consistent, maintained confidentiality, and was a woman. The women reported negative experiences when the examination was too short, when they did not have a consistent or female provider, and when they did not feel comfortable with the provider's nonverbal communication.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Continued work with both providers and patients is necessary to decrease communication barriers and increase satisfaction with Pap test appointments.}, }
@article {pmid18375189, year = {2008}, author = {Bartos, CE and Fridsma, DB and Butler, BS and Penrod, LE and Becich, MJ and Crowley, RS}, title = {Development of an instrument for measuring clinicians' power perceptions in the workplace.}, journal = {Journal of biomedical informatics}, volume = {41}, number = {6}, pages = {1041-1049}, pmid = {18375189}, issn = {1532-0480}, support = {T15 LM007059/LM/NLM NIH HHS/United States ; T15 LM007059-21/LM/NLM NIH HHS/United States ; 5 T15 LM007059-20/LM/NLM NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Physicians/*psychology ; *Power, Psychological ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Workplace ; }, abstract = {We report on the development of an instrument to measure clinicians' perceptions of their personal power in the workplace in relation to resistance to computerized physician order entry (CPOE). The instrument is based on French and Raven's six bases of social power and uses a semantic differential methodology. A measurement study was conducted to determine the reliability and validity of the survey. The survey was administered online and distributed via a URL by email to 19 physicians, nurses, and health unit coordinators from a university hospital. Acceptable reliability was achieved by removing or moving some semantic differential word pairs used to represent the six power bases (alpha range from 0.76 to 0.89). The Semantic Differential Power Perception (SDPP) survey validity was tested against an already validated instrument and found to be acceptable (correlation range from 0.51 to 0.81). The SDPP survey instrument was determined to be both reliable and valid.}, }
@article {pmid18371014, year = {2008}, author = {Coulon, A and Fitzpatrick, JW and Bowman, R and Stith, BM and Makarewich, CA and Stenzler, LM and Lovette, IJ}, title = {Congruent population structure inferred from dispersal behaviour and intensive genetic surveys of the threatened Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens).}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {17}, number = {7}, pages = {1685-1701}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2008.03705.x}, pmid = {18371014}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; Bayes Theorem ; Behavior, Animal ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; Demography ; Florida ; *Genetic Variation ; Genetics, Population ; Genotype ; Microsatellite Repeats/genetics ; Multigene Family ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; }, abstract = {The delimitation of populations, defined as groups of individuals linked by gene flow, is possible by the analysis of genetic markers and also by spatial models based on dispersal probabilities across a landscape. We combined these two complimentary methods to define the spatial pattern of genetic structure among remaining populations of the threatened Florida scrub-jay, a species for which dispersal ability is unusually well-characterized. The range-wide population was intensively censused in the 1990s, and a metapopulation model defined population boundaries based on predicted dispersal-mediated demographic connectivity. We subjected genotypes from more than 1000 individual jays screened at 20 microsatellite loci to two Bayesian clustering methods. We describe a consensus method for identifying common features across many replicated clustering runs. Ten genetically differentiated groups exist across the present-day range of the Florida scrub-jay. These groups are largely consistent with the dispersal-defined metapopulations, which assume very limited dispersal ability. Some genetic groups comprise more than one metapopulation, likely because these genetically similar metapopulations were sundered only recently by habitat alteration. The combined reconstructions of population structure based on genetics and dispersal-mediated demographic connectivity provide a robust depiction of the current genetic and demographic organization of this species, reflecting past and present levels of dispersal among occupied habitat patches. The differentiation of populations into 10 genetic groups adds urgency to management efforts aimed at preserving what remains of genetic variation in this dwindling species, by maintaining viable populations of all genetically differentiated and geographically isolated populations.}, }
@article {pmid18364318, year = {2008}, author = {Seed, AM and Clayton, NS and Emery, NJ}, title = {Cooperative problem solving in rooks (Corvus frugilegus).}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {275}, number = {1641}, pages = {1421-1429}, pmid = {18364318}, issn = {0962-8452}, support = {BBS/B/05354/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Cognition ; *Cooperative Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Pan troglodytes ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; }, abstract = {Recent work has shown that captive rooks, like chimpanzees and other primates, develop cooperative alliances with their conspecifics. Furthermore, the pressures hypothesized to have favoured social intelligence in primates also apply to corvids. We tested cooperative problem-solving in rooks to compare their performance and cognition with primates. Without training, eight rooks quickly solved a problem in which two individuals had to pull both ends of a string simultaneously in order to pull in a food platform. Similar to chimpanzees and capuchin monkeys, performance was better when within-dyad tolerance levels were higher. In contrast to chimpanzees, rooks did not delay acting on the apparatus while their partner gained access to the test room. Furthermore, given a choice between an apparatus that could be operated individually over one that required the action of two individuals, four out of six individuals showed no preference. These results may indicate that cooperation in chimpanzees is underpinned by more complex cognitive processes than that in rooks. Such a difference may arise from the fact that while both chimpanzees and rooks form cooperative alliances, chimpanzees, but not rooks, live in a variable social network made up of competitive and cooperative relationships.}, }
@article {pmid18355382, year = {2008}, author = {Wardrop, D and Keeling, D}, title = {The story of the discovery of heparin and warfarin.}, journal = {British journal of haematology}, volume = {141}, number = {6}, pages = {757-763}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2141.2008.07119.x}, pmid = {18355382}, issn = {1365-2141}, mesh = {Anticoagulants/*history ; Clinical Trials as Topic/history ; Hematology/*history ; Heparin/*history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Warfarin/*history ; }, abstract = {Heparin and coumarins have been the mainstay of anticoagulant therapy throughout our working lives. As we stand on the threshold of a new era of anticoagulants it is timely to look back upon their discovery and development. Both have fascinating stories to tell. Jay McLean claimed to have discovered heparin whilst a medical student, although this is disputed. The story of warfarin leads us from a mysterious haemorrhagic disease of cattle to the development of a rat poison which became one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in history. Many people were involved in both stories and we owe them all a debt of gratitude.}, }
@article {pmid18345149, year = {2000}, author = {Argall, PS and Vassiliev, ON and Sica, RJ and Mwangi, MM}, title = {Lidar measurements taken with a large-aperture liquid mirror. 2. Sodium resonance-fluorescence system.}, journal = {Applied optics}, volume = {39}, number = {15}, pages = {2393-2400}, doi = {10.1364/ao.39.002393}, pmid = {18345149}, issn = {1559-128X}, abstract = {Sodium resonance-fluorescence lidar is an established technique for measuring atmospheric composition and dynamics in the mesopause region. A large-power-aperture product (6.6-W m(2)) sodium resonance-fluorescence lidar has been built as a part of the Purple Crow Lidar (PCL) at The University of Western Ontario. This sodium resonance-fluorescence lidar measures, with high optical efficiency, both sodium density and temperature profiles in the 83-100-km region. The sodium lidar operates simultaneously with a powerful Rayleigh- and Raman-scatter lidar (66 W m(2)). The PCL is thus capable of simultaneous measurement of temperature from the tropopause to the lower thermosphere. The sodium resonance-fluorescence lidar is shown to be able to measure temperature to an absolute precision of 1.5 K and a statistical accuracy of 1 K with a spatial-temporal resolution of 72 (km s) at an altitude of 92 km. We present results from three nights of measurements taken with the sodium lidar and compare these with coincident Rayleigh-scatter lidar measurements. These measurements show significant differences between the temperature profiles derived by the two techniques, which we attribute to variations in the ratio of molecular nitrogen to molecular oxygen that are not accounted for in the standard Rayleigh-scatter temperature analysis.}, }
@article {pmid18343173, year = {2008}, author = {Stephenson, JB}, title = {Aicardi-Goutières syndrome (AGS).}, journal = {European journal of paediatric neurology : EJPN : official journal of the European Paediatric Neurology Society}, volume = {12}, number = {5}, pages = {355-358}, doi = {10.1016/j.ejpn.2007.11.010}, pmid = {18343173}, issn = {1090-3798}, mesh = {Autoimmune Diseases of the Nervous System/*enzymology/*genetics/physiopathology ; Basal Ganglia Diseases/*enzymology/*genetics/physiopathology ; Calcinosis/enzymology/genetics/physiopathology ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Exodeoxyribonucleases/*genetics ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease/*genetics ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Interferon-alpha/genetics ; Lymphocytosis/cerebrospinal fluid ; Phosphoproteins/*genetics ; Ribonuclease H/genetics ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {In 1984, Jean Aicardi and Françoise Goutières described 8 children showing both severe brain atrophy and chronic cerebrospinal fluid lymphocytosis, with basal ganglia calcification in at least one member of each affected family. The course was rapid to death or a vegetative outcome. Aicardi and Goutières correctly predicted that the disorder would be genetic, but emphasised that "some features, especially the pleocytosis, may erroneously suggest an inflammatory condition". The increased interferon-alpha in affected children (Pierre Lebon, Paris) mimicked congenital viral infection, but the associated chilblains (pernio) pointed to lupus erythematosus and an autoimmune mechanism. Genetic research led by Yanick Crow has clarified these puzzling relationships in Aicardi-Goutières syndrome, a syndrome that now includes conditions previously known as microcephaly-intracranial calcification syndrome, pseudo-TORCH and Cree encephalitis. At the time of writing, Crow's team has discovered that over 80% of families with Aicardi-Goutières syndrome have mutations in one of four nuclease genes, the exonuclease TREX1 and the genes for all three subunits of the ribonuclease H2 enzyme complex. Aicardi-Goutières syndrome is both genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous, with a range of severity from life-threatening perinatal illness to mild late infancy onset. All infants of whatever genotype have increased interferon-alpha in the first year of life and this appears to be the final common pathway that links Aicardi-Goutières syndrome, congenital virus infection and systemic lupus erythematosus.}, }
@article {pmid18342341, year = {2008}, author = {Denny, K}, title = {Cognitive ability and continuous measures of relative hand skill: a note.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {46}, number = {7}, pages = {2091-2094}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2008.02.004}, pmid = {18342341}, issn = {0028-3932}, mesh = {*Achievement ; Aptitude/*physiology ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/physiopathology ; Comprehension/physiology ; Functional Laterality/*physiology ; Humans ; Mathematics ; Motor Skills/*physiology ; Problem Solving ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; Reading ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Verbal Behavior/physiology ; }, abstract = {This note re-examines a finding by Crow et al. [Crow, T. J., Crow, L. R., Done, D. J., &amp; Leask, S. (1998). Relative hand skill predicts academic ability: Global deficits at the point of hemispheric indecision. Neuropsychologia, 36(12), 1275-1281] that equal skill of right and left hands is associated with deficits in cognitive ability. This is consistent with the idea that failure to develop dominance of one hemisphere is associated with various pathologies such as learning difficulties. Using the same data source but utilising additional data, evidence is found of a more complex relationship between cognitive ability and relative hand skill.}, }
@article {pmid18338199, year = {2008}, author = {Viana-Baptista, M and Bugalho, P and Jordão, C and Ferreira, N and Ferreira, A and Forjaz Secca, M and Esperança-Pina, JA and Ferro, JM}, title = {Cognitive function correlates with frontal white matter apparent diffusion coefficients in patients with leukoaraiosis.}, journal = {Journal of neurology}, volume = {255}, number = {3}, pages = {360-366}, pmid = {18338199}, issn = {0340-5354}, mesh = {Activities of Daily Living ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/physiology/psychology ; Blood Pressure/physiology ; Brain/*pathology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Female ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Leukoaraiosis/*pathology/*psychology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) displays a high sensitivity to white matter changes, even in areas where no lesions are visible. Correlation with vascular risk factors and cognitive dysfunction seems to be feasible using this technique. We aimed to test relations between age, blood pressure and cognitive function,with lesion load and average Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) values in lesioned (LWM) and in normal appearing white matter (NAWM), in patients with age related white matter lesions (ARWML).<br><br>METHODS: Subjects were 29 patients (mean age 72.6 +/- 5.2 years) with different severity of ARWML on MRI and no (or mild) disability assessed by the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale. Imaging lesion load was quantified in bilateral frontal, temporal, parieto-occipital, basal ganglia and infratentorial regions, using a simple visual rating scale; ADC was measured bilaterally in Regions of Interest in parieto-occipital and frontal NAWM, and in frontal periventricular LWM. Neuropsychological examination consisted of Raven Colored Progressive Matrices, Rey's Complex Figure, Digit Canceling. Symbol digit Substitution, Inverse Digit Repetition and Verbal Fluency tests.<br><br>RESULTS: Visual scales scores and ADC were significantly higher in frontal and parieto-occipital regions. Both were significantly correlated to age and blood pressure, in frontal (visual scale scores and ADC) and parieto-occipital regions (ADC). Attention skills were negatively correlated to ADC in LWM and NAWM in frontal regions and with frontal region visual scale scores.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that severity of white matter ischemic changes is correlated with worse cognitive function, as well as advanced age and higher blood pressure.A higher vulnerability of frontal white matter to vascular disease seems to play an important role in executive dysfunction, mainly determined by impairment of attentional skills.DWI results suggest this could be true even for NAWM.}, }
@article {pmid18331960, year = {2008}, author = {Shanahan, T}, title = {Why don't zebras have machine guns? Adaptation, selection, and constraints in evolutionary theory.}, journal = {Studies in history and philosophy of biological and biomedical sciences}, volume = {39}, number = {1}, pages = {135-146}, doi = {10.1016/j.shpsc.2007.12.008}, pmid = {18331960}, issn = {1369-8486}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Biological ; Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Equidae/*genetics ; *Firearms ; Genetic Variation/genetics ; Humans ; *Phenotype ; *Phylogeny ; *Selection, Genetic ; Survival ; }, abstract = {In an influential paper, Stephen Jay Gould and Richard Lewontin (1979) contrasted selection-driven adaptation with phylogenetic, architectural, and developmental constraints as distinct causes of phenotypic evolution. In subsequent publications Gould (e.g., 1997a,b, 2002) has elaborated this distinction into one between a narrow "Darwinian Fundamentalist" emphasis on "external functionalist" processes, and a more inclusive "pluralist" emphasis on "internal structuralist" principles. Although theoretical integration of functionalist and structuralist explanations is the ultimate aim, natural selection and internal constraints are treated as distinct causes of evolutionary change. This distinction is now routinely taken for granted in the literature in evolutionary biology. I argue that this distinction is problematic because the effects attributed to non-selective constraints are more parsimoniously explained as the ordinary effects of selection itself. Although it may still be a useful shorthand to speak of phylogenetic, architectural, and developmental constraints on phenotypic evolution, it is important to understand that such "constraints" do not constitute an alternative set of causes of evolutionary change. The result of this analysis is a clearer understanding of the relationship between adaptation, selection and constraints as explanatory concepts in evolutionary theory.}, }
@article {pmid18331244, year = {2008}, author = {Koenig, WD and Walters, EL}, title = {A tale of two worlds: molecular ecology and population structure of the threatened Florida scrub-jay.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {17}, number = {7}, pages = {1632-1633}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2008.03704.x}, pmid = {18331244}, issn = {1365-294X}, mesh = {Animals ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; *Demography ; Ecology ; Florida ; *Genetics, Population ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Elsewhere in this issue of Molecular Ecology, Coulon et al. provide a detailed analysis of population structure of the threatened Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) using genetic markers and compare it to that inferred from previous demographic surveys and observed dispersal behaviour in this species. In contrast to previous attempts at such comparisons, estimates from the two methods are reasonably congruent. Although challenges remain, Coulon et al.'s analyses demonstrate the potential for closing the gap between these alternative methodologies, and ultimately for future genetic surveys to be used confidently in conservation planning.}, }
@article {pmid18312561, year = {2008}, author = {Lorenzi, MC and Sella, G}, title = {A measure of sexual selection in hermaphroditic animals: parentage skew and the opportunity for selection.}, journal = {Journal of evolutionary biology}, volume = {21}, number = {3}, pages = {827-833}, doi = {10.1111/j.1420-9101.2008.01513.x}, pmid = {18312561}, issn = {1420-9101}, mesh = {Animals ; Annelida/*genetics/*physiology ; Disorders of Sex Development/*genetics ; Female ; Male ; Reproduction/genetics/physiology ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {The role of sexual selection in shaping the mating system of hermaphrodites is currently widely accepted. However, a quantification of the intensity of sexual selection in hermaphroditic animals has never been accomplished. We evaluated the opportunity for sexual selection for both the female and the male functions in the simultaneous outcrossing hermaphrodite Ophryotrocha diadema by measuring focal hermaphrodites' paternal and maternal offspring in experimental replicated monogamous and promiscuous populations, using genetic markers to estimate paternity. Opportunity for sexual selection for each of the two sexual functions was quantified by means of the Crow's index, i.e. the ratio of variance in progeny number to the squared mean number of progeny. In addition, the extent to which the reproductive success was shared among competing individuals was estimated by means of the Nonacs's B index. We documented that the strength of selection on the male and female function in hermaphrodites with external fertilization depends on the reproductive context. Under a promiscuous regime, hermaphrodites have higher opportunities for selection for both the male and the female function than under the monogamous regime. Moreover, the reproductive skew for the female function becomes greater than that for the male function, moving from monogamy to promiscuity. In our model system, allocation to one sexual function is opposed by any degree of allocation to the other, indicating that sex-specific patterns of selection operate in this model species.}, }
@article {pmid18312310, year = {2008}, author = {Pueyo, R and Junqué, C and Vendrell, P and Narberhaus, A and Segarra, D}, title = {Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices as a measure of cognitive functioning in Cerebral Palsy.}, journal = {Journal of intellectual disability research : JIDR}, volume = {52}, number = {Pt 5}, pages = {437-445}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2788.2008.01045.x}, pmid = {18312310}, issn = {1365-2788}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Cerebral Palsy/complications/*psychology ; Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/etiology/psychology ; Color ; Female ; Humans ; Language ; Male ; Memory ; Neuropsychological Tests/*standards/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Reproducibility of Results ; Severity of Illness Index ; Space Perception ; Spain ; Visual Perception ; Vocabulary ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cognitive dysfunction is frequent in Cerebral Palsy (CP). CP motor impairment and associated speech deficits often hinder cognitive assessment, with the result being that not all CP studies consider cognitive dysfunction. Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices is a simple, rapid test which can be used in persons with severe motor impairment and speech limitations. We studied whether this test can offer a reliable measure of cognitive functioning in CP.<br><br>METHOD: Visuoperceptual, language, memory and frontal lobe functions were evaluated in 30 participants with severe motor impaired CP and a variety of speech difficulties. The relationship between Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices and a variety of tests was analysed.<br><br>RESULTS: Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices performance was associated with visuoperceptual, language, visual and verbal memory but not with frontal functions. Receptive vocabulary and visuospatial measures were the best predictors of Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices raw scores.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices is a fast, easy-to-administer test able to obtain a measure related with linguistic, visuoperceptual, and memory cognitive functioning in persons with CP despite their motor and speech disorders.}, }
@article {pmid18308483, year = {2008}, author = {Tamez, E and Myerson, J and Hale, S}, title = {Learning, working memory, and intelligence revisited.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {78}, number = {2}, pages = {240-245}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2008.01.008}, pmid = {18308483}, issn = {0376-6357}, mesh = {Adult ; *Attention ; *Discrimination, Psychological ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Reaction Time ; Reference Values ; Statistics as Topic ; *Verbal Learning ; }, abstract = {Based on early findings showing low correlations between intelligence test scores and learning on laboratory tasks, psychologists typically have dismissed the role of learning in intelligence and emphasized the role of working memory instead. In 2006, however, B.A. Williams developed a verbal learning task inspired by three-term reinforcement contingencies and reported unexpectedly high correlations between this task and Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM) scores [Williams, B.A., Pearlberg, S.L., 2006. Learning of three-term contingencies correlates with Raven scores, but not with measures of cognitive processing. Intelligence 34, 177-191]. The present study replicated this finding: Performance on the three-term learning task explained almost 25% of the variance in RAPM scores. Adding complex verbal working memory span, measured using the operation span task, did not improve prediction. Notably, this was not due to a lack of correlation between complex working memory span and RAPM scores. Rather, it occurred because most of the variance captured by the complex working memory span was already accounted for by the three-term learning task. Taken together with the findings of Williams and Pearlberg, the present results make a strong case for the role of learning in performance on intelligence tests.}, }
@article {pmid18294782, year = {2008}, author = {Izawa, E and Watanabe, S}, title = {Formation of linear dominance relationship in captive jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos): implications for individual recognition.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {78}, number = {1}, pages = {44-52}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2007.12.010}, pmid = {18294782}, issn = {0376-6357}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; *Association Learning ; Crows ; *Dominance-Subordination ; Female ; Male ; *Recognition, Psychology ; Sex Factors ; *Social Environment ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; }, abstract = {Jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) flexibly change their social forms depending on their age, time of the day, and the season. In the daytime, paired adults behave territorially and unpaired subadults form small flocks of ten birds, whereas at night hundreds of birds roost together. In the breeding season, pairings remain in their nest all day. This fission-fusion raises questions about the underlying social structure and the cognitive capability of jungle crows. In this study, dyadic encounters were used to investigate dominance relationships (linear or non-linear) and the underlying mechanisms in captive jungle crows. Fourteen crows were tested in 455 encounters (i.e., 5 encounters per dyad), and a stable linear dominance relationship emerged. Sex and aggressiveness were determinants as individual characteristics for dominance formation. Males dominated females, and more aggressive individuals dominated less aggressive ones. Aggressive interactions in dyads occurred primarily during the first encounter and drastically declined during subsequent encounters without any signs of a confidence effect. These results suggest that, in captive jungle crow, a linear form of dominance is intrinsically determined by sex and aggressiveness and maintained extrinsically by memories of past outcomes associated with specific individuals, implying individual recognition.}, }
@article {pmid18293590, year = {2008}, author = {Seco, J and Sharp, GC and Wu, Z and Gierga, D and Buettner, F and Paganetti, H}, title = {Dosimetric impact of motion in free-breathing and gated lung radiotherapy: a 4D Monte Carlo study of intrafraction and interfraction effects.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {35}, number = {1}, pages = {356-366}, pmid = {18293590}, issn = {0094-2405}, support = {R01 CA111590/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 CA111590-03/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; R01-CA 111590/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Lung/*physiology ; Lung Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; *Monte Carlo Method ; *Movement ; *Radiation Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; *Respiration ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to investigate if interfraction and intrafraction motion in free-breathing and gated lung IMRT can lead to systematic dose differences between 3DCT and 4DCT. Dosimetric effects were studied considering the breathing pattern of three patients monitored during the course of their treatment and an in-house developed 4D Monte Carlo framework. Imaging data were taken in free-breathing and in cine mode for both 3D and 4D acquisition. Treatment planning for IMRT delivery was done based on the free-breathing data with the CORVUS (North American Scientific, Chatsworth, CA) planning system. The dose distributions as a function of phase in the breathing cycle were combined using deformable image registration. The study focused on (a) assessing the accuracy of the CORVUS pencil beam algorithm with Monte Carlo dose calculation in the lung, (b) evaluating the dosimetric effect of motion on the individual breathing phases of the respiratory cycle, and (c) assessing intrafraction and interfraction motion effects during free-breathing or gated radiotherapy. The comparison between (a) the planning system and the Monte Carlo system shows that the pencil beam algorithm underestimates the dose in low-density regions, such as lung tissue, and overestimates the dose in high-density regions, such as bone, by 5% or more of the prescribed dose (corresponding to approximately 3-5 Gy for the cases considered). For the patients studied this could have a significant impact on the dose volume histograms for the target structures depending on the margin added to the clinical target volume (CTV) to produce either the planning target (PTV) or internal target volume (ITV). The dose differences between (b) phases in the breathing cycle and the free-breathing case were shown to be negligible for all phases except for the inhale phase, where an underdosage of the tumor by as much as 9.3 Gy relative to the free-breathing was observed. The large difference was due to breathing-induced motion/deformation affecting the soft/lung tissue density and motion of the bone structures (such as the rib cage) in and out of the beam. Intrafraction and interfraction dosimetric differences between (c) free-breathing and gated delivery were found to be small. However, more significant dosimetric differences, of the order of 3%-5%, were observed between the dose calculations based on static CT (3DCT) and the ones based on time-resolved CT (4DCT). These differences are a consequence of the larger contribution of the inhale phase in the 3DCT data than in the 4DCT.}, }
@article {pmid18287787, year = {2008}, author = {Gow, AJ and Johnson, W and Pattie, A and Whiteman, MC and Starr, J and Deary, IJ}, title = {Mental ability in childhood and cognitive aging.}, journal = {Gerontology}, volume = {54}, number = {3}, pages = {177-186}, doi = {10.1159/000118098}, pmid = {18287787}, issn = {1423-0003}, support = {CZB/4/505/CSO_/Chief Scientist Office/United Kingdom ; ETM/55/CSO_/Chief Scientist Office/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*physiology ; Aptitude/*physiology ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Health Status ; Health Surveys ; Humans ; Linear Models ; Male ; Memory/*physiology ; Scotland ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Identifying the determinants of cognitive aging is a research priority; however, few studies are able to examine the influence of pre-morbid cognitive ability on later changes in cognitive function.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To examine the association between childhood cognitive ability and cognitive change from age 79 to 83 in the presence of other demographic and lifestyle indicators.<br><br>METHODS: The participants took a test of mental ability when aged 11 as part of the Scottish Mental Survey 1932. Cognitive ability based on Raven's Matrices, Verbal Fluency, and Logical Memory was assessed at ages 79 and 83. We used both linear regression and latent variable growth curve modeling to compare methods and results.<br><br>RESULTS: Using linear regression, childhood mental ability was a significant predictor of cognitive change from 79 to 83, accounting for about 1.4% of the variance. Sex, education, social class, smoking status and alcohol intake were non-significant. In contrast, using latent variable growth curve modeling, there was no association between childhood mental ability and cognitive change. Sex (male), years of education, drinking status (positive), and childhood IQ were associated with better cognitive ability at age 79. The difference in results was due to the inability of linear regression to account completely for test-specific variance.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Within a group of non-demented older people, greater childhood mental ability was associated with level of cognitive ability at age 79, but not with change in cognitive ability to age 83. To obtain accurate results regarding covariates of change, it is important to use methodology that can appropriately allocate all measured sources of variance.}, }
@article {pmid18274930, year = {2008}, author = {Sikdar, M}, title = {Influence of socio-economic transition on genetic structure: a case study in Upper Assam, India.}, journal = {Annals of human biology}, volume = {35}, number = {1}, pages = {112-120}, doi = {10.1080/03014460701822011}, pmid = {18274930}, issn = {0301-4460}, mesh = {Female ; *Fertility ; *Genetic Variation ; Genetics, Population/*trends ; Humans ; India ; Interviews as Topic ; Male ; Mortality/trends ; Rural Population ; *Selection, Genetic ; *Socioeconomic Factors ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Time Factors ; Urban Population ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Socio-economic transition with time offers us a way to understand the dynamics of evolution by studying the change in selection pressure.<br><br>AIM: The present study aimed to explore the effect of temporal change in socio-economic conditions on the selection pattern of Sonowal Kachari, a major tribal population of Assam, north-east India, over a period of 31 years (from 1975 to 2006). It also attempts to locate the present position of the tribe in the demographic transition model on the basis of the prevalent selection pattern.<br><br>SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Data on differential fertility and differential pre-reproductive mortality were collected from 155 unrelated Sonowal Kachari post-menopausal women from Dibrugarh, Upper Assam. Opportunity for natural selection was calculated on the basis of the indices put forward by Crow (I(c)) and Johnston and Kensinger (I(j)). To compute the opportunity for natural selection, different parameters such as index of selection due to infant mortality (I(m)), index of selection due to fertility (I(f)) and index of selection due to embryonic mortality (I(me)) were taken into consideration. Standard statistical techniques were applied wherever relevant.<br><br>RESULTS: The different components of selection were found to be higher among the rural population than those in the urban one. Without considering the effect of regional variability, the Crow's index (I(c)) of opportunity for natural selection was found to decrease with time from 0.364 in 1975 to 0.244 in 2006. The Johnston and Kensinger index (I(j)) also decreased from 0.541 in 1975 to 0.284 in 2006. Irrespective of the methodology, the mortality component was found to decrease considerably with time without marked reduction in the fertility component.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The study, within its limitations, suggests that at present the Sonowal population is experiencing a selection relaxation due to the temporal improvement of socio-economic conditions. By comparing the fertility and pre-reproductive mortality components it can be argued that the population may have been passing through the initial period of post-transitional stage, which may increase the segregation load in the population.}, }
@article {pmid18271120, year = {2008}, author = {Lewontin, R}, title = {The triumph of Stephen Jay Gould.}, journal = {The New York review of books}, volume = {55}, number = {2}, pages = {39-41}, pmid = {18271120}, issn = {0028-7504}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Biology/history/trends ; History, 20th Century ; Natural History/history/methods/trends ; Philosophy/history ; Teaching/history/methods ; }, abstract = {Reviews of Steven Rose's The richness of life: the essential Stephen Jay Gould and Stephen Jay Gould's Punctuated equilibrium.}, }
@article {pmid18262356, year = {2008}, author = {Cnotka, J and Güntürkün, O and Rehkämper, G and Gray, RD and Hunt, GR}, title = {Extraordinary large brains in tool-using New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides).}, journal = {Neuroscience letters}, volume = {433}, number = {3}, pages = {241-245}, doi = {10.1016/j.neulet.2008.01.026}, pmid = {18262356}, issn = {0304-3940}, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological/physiology ; Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Body Weight/physiology ; Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Intelligence/*physiology ; New Caledonia ; Organ Size/physiology ; Passeriformes/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Phylogeny ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Sparrows/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Species Specificity ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {A general correlation exists between brain weight and higher cognitive ability in birds and mammals. In birds this relationship is especially evident in corvids. These animals are well-known for their flexible behavior and problem-solving abilities, and have relatively large brains associated with a pallial enlargement. At the behavioral level, New Caledonian crows stand out amongst corvids because of their impressive object manipulation skills both in the wild and in the laboratory. However, nothing is known about the relative size of their brains. Here we show that NC crows have highly encephalised brains relative to most other birds that have been studied. We compared the relative brain size of five NC crows with combined data for four passerine species (7 European carrion crows, 2 European magpies, 3 European jays and 4 domestic sparrows) and found that NC crows had significantly larger brains. A comparison only with the seven carrion crows also revealed significantly larger brains for NC crows. When compared with brain data for 140 avian species from the literature, the NC crow had one of the highest degrees of encephalisation, exceeding that of the 7 other Corvidae in the data set.}, }
@article {pmid18258098, year = {2008}, author = {Jourdain, E and Gauthier-Clerc, M and Sabatier, P and Grège, O and Greenland, T and Leblond, A and Lafaye, M and Zeller, HG}, title = {Magpies as hosts for West Nile virus, southern France.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {158-160}, pmid = {18258098}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Animals ; *Disease Reservoirs/veterinary/virology ; Feces/virology ; France/epidemiology ; Horse Diseases/virology ; Horses/virology ; Passeriformes/*virology ; Sentinel Surveillance/veterinary ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; Topography, Medical ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology ; *West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {European magpies (Pica pica) from southern France were tested for antibodies to West Nile virus (WNV) and viral shedding in feces during spring-autumn 2005. Results suggest that this peridomestic species may be a suitable sentinel species and a relevant target for additional investigations on WNV ecology in Europe.}, }
@article {pmid18258067, year = {2007}, author = {Huhtamo, E and Uzcátegui, NY and Manni, T and Munsterhjelm, R and Brummer-Korvenkontio, M and Vaheri, A and Vapalahti, O}, title = {Novel orthoreovirus from diseased crow, Finland.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {13}, number = {12}, pages = {1967-1969}, pmid = {18258067}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/*virology ; Crows/*virology ; Finland/epidemiology ; Genes, Viral/genetics ; Orthoreovirus, Avian/*classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; Phylogeny ; Reoviridae Infections/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; }, }
@article {pmid18258048, year = {2007}, author = {Patrican, LA and Hackett, LE and Briggs, JE and McGowan, JW and Unnasch, TR and Lee, JH}, title = {Host-feeding patterns of Culex mosquitoes in relation to trap habitat.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {13}, number = {12}, pages = {1921-1923}, pmid = {18258048}, issn = {1080-6040}, support = {R01 AI049724/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI049724-08/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/blood ; Culex/*physiology ; Ecosystem ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Mosquito Control/*instrumentation ; United States ; }, abstract = {Mosquito feeding patterns identify vertebrate species potentially involved in the amplification of West Nile virus. In New York, northern cardinals (Cardinalis cardinalis) were the predominant hosts in most habitats. Crow (Corvus sp.) blood meals were most frequently identified from sewage treatment plant and storm water catch basin habitats.}, }
@article {pmid18258045, year = {2007}, author = {Dawson, JR and Stone, WB and Ebel, GD and Young, DS and Galinski, DS and Pensabene, JP and Franke, MA and Eidson, M and Kramer, LD}, title = {Crow deaths caused by West Nile virus during winter.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {13}, number = {12}, pages = {1912-1914}, pmid = {18258045}, issn = {1080-6040}, support = {N01AI25490/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; U50/CCU223671//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*mortality/transmission/*virology ; *Crows ; Feces/virology ; Genotype ; New York/epidemiology ; *Seasons ; Time Factors ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/mortality/transmission/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/*physiology ; }, abstract = {In New York, an epizootic of American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) deaths from West Nile virus (WNV) infection occurred during winter 2004-2005, a cold season when mosquitoes are not active. Detection of WNV in feces collected at the roost suggests lateral transmission through contact or fecal contamination.}, }
@article {pmid18248632, year = {2008}, author = {Kuchta, SR and Krakauer, AH and Sinervo, B}, title = {Why does the yellow-eyed Ensatina have yellow eyes? Batesian mimicry of Pacific newts (genus Taricha) by the salamander Ensatina eschscholtzii xanthoptica.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {62}, number = {4}, pages = {984-990}, doi = {10.1111/j.1558-5646.2008.00338.x}, pmid = {18248632}, issn = {0014-3820}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Biological ; Animals ; Eye ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; *Pigmentation ; Predatory Behavior/*physiology ; Songbirds/*physiology ; *Caudata ; }, abstract = {Color patterns commonly vary geographically within species, but it is rare that such variation corresponds with divergent antipredator strategies. The polymorphic salamander Ensatina eschscholtzii, however, may represent such a case. In this species, most subspecies are cryptically colored, whereas E. e. xanthoptica, the Yellow eyed ensatina, is hypothesized to be an aposematic mimic of highly toxic Pacific newts (genus Taricha). To test the mimicry hypothesis, we conducted feeding trials using Western Scrub-Jays, Aphelocoma californica. In every feeding trial, we found that jays, following presentation with the presumed model (T. torosa), were more hesitant to contact the presumed mimic (E. e. xanthoptica) than a control subspecies lacking the postulated aposematic colors (E. e. oregonensis). The median time to contact was 315 sec for the mimic and 52 sec for the control. These results support the mimicry hypothesis, and we suggest that E. e. xanthoptica is likely a Batesian mimic, rather a Müllerian or quasi-Batesian mimic, of Pacific newts.}, }
@article {pmid18246763, year = {2007}, author = {Jay, M}, title = {Individual differences in melancholy gender among women: does ambivalence matter?.}, journal = {Journal of the American Psychoanalytic Association}, volume = {55}, number = {4}, pages = {1279-1320}, doi = {10.1177/000306510705500410}, pmid = {18246763}, issn = {0003-0651}, support = {MH43948/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; MH63548/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological ; Adult ; Conflict, Psychological ; Depressive Disorder/*psychology/therapy ; Female ; Freudian Theory ; *Gender Identity ; Grief ; Humans ; *Individuality ; Internal-External Control ; Longitudinal Studies ; Middle Aged ; *Object Attachment ; Personality Inventory ; *Psychoanalytic Theory ; Psychoanalytic Therapy ; }, abstract = {This research offers an empirical investigation inspired by Butler's theory of melancholy gender (1995) and a revision of this theory (Jay 2007a). Psychoanalytic feminist theory is drawn on to suggest that melancholy and gender are more likely to be associated in female development than in male development, and Freud's theory of melancholy (1917) is taken to suggest that ambivalence predicts individual differences in melancholy gender among women. In a longitudinal study of women's adult development, an examination of femininity, depressive symptoms, and ambivalence in attachment was conducted in order to evaluate these claims. Findings show that depressive symptoms and femininity are significantly correlated within the sample, but that individual differences in melancholy gender exist. To understand these differences, an analysis was conducted to determine whether ambivalence in attachment accounts for the relation between depressive symptoms and femininity; complementary analyses examined whether low ambivalence in attachment attenuates, or lessens, the relation between femininity and depressive symptoms. Results from these analyses support the notion that it is not the loss and internalization of the same-sex object choice per se that results in melancholy gender in women, as Butler argues; rather, it is the internalization of a lost, ambivalent same-sex attachment that forges the link between melancholy and gender. Narrative material is presented to personify melancholy and unmelancholy gender.}, }
@article {pmid18246723, year = {2007}, author = {Cofield, N and Schwab, AP and Banks, MK}, title = {Phytoremediation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in soil: part I. Dissipation of target contaminants.}, journal = {International journal of phytoremediation}, volume = {9}, number = {5}, pages = {355-370}, doi = {10.1080/15226510701603858}, pmid = {18246723}, issn = {1522-6514}, mesh = {Biodegradation, Environmental ; Biomass ; Coal ; Cucurbita/metabolism ; Festuca/metabolism ; Fruit ; Humans ; Indiana ; Industrial Waste ; Panicum/metabolism ; Plant Roots ; Plant Shoots ; Plants/*metabolism ; Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons/*pharmacokinetics ; Soil Pollutants/*pharmacokinetics ; }, abstract = {Phytoremediation has been demonstrated to be a viable cleanup alternative for soils contaminated with petroleum products. This study evaluated the application of phytoremediation to soil from a manufactured gas plant (MGP) site with high concentrations of recalcitrant, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Two greenhouse studies investigated the potential dissipation and plant translocation of PAHs by fescue (Festuca arundinacea) and switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) in the first experiment and zucchini (Curcubita pepo Raven) in the second. The MGP soil was highly hydrophobic and initially inhibited plant growth. Two unplanted controls were established with and without fertilization. In the first experiment, concentrations of PAHs decreased significantly in all treatments after 12 mo. Plant biomass and microbial numbers were statistically equivalent among plant species. PAH concentrations in plant biomass were negligible for fescue and switchgrass. In the second experiment, zucchini enhanced the dissipation of several PAHs after 90 d of treatment when compared to the unvegetated soil. Plant tissue concentrations of PAHs were not elevated in the zucchini roots and shoots, and PAHs were not detectable in the fruit.}, }
@article {pmid18237780, year = {2008}, author = {Jaspers, VL and Covaci, A and Deleu, P and Neels, H and Eens, M}, title = {Preen oil as the main source of external contamination with organic pollutants onto feathers of the common magpie (Pica pica).}, journal = {Environment international}, volume = {34}, number = {6}, pages = {741-748}, doi = {10.1016/j.envint.2007.12.002}, pmid = {18237780}, issn = {0160-4120}, mesh = {Animals ; Environmental Pollutants/*blood ; Feathers/*chemistry ; *Grooming ; Oils/chemistry ; Organic Chemicals/*blood ; Songbirds/*blood ; }, abstract = {We investigated the possible sources of contamination with organic pollutants, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), p,p'-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and metabolites, and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), in and onto tail feathers of a large songbird, the common magpie (Pica pica). Although feathers are potentially useful as a non-destructive biomonitor for organic pollutants, concentrations may be influenced by external contamination onto the feather surface. In a first approach, a group of magpies was captured after the completion of moult. The third tail feather was pulled out and a blood sample was taken. Most PCBs, DDTs and some PBDEs could be quantified in one single tail feather, indicating that the applicability of feathers goes beyond monitoring with predatory birds, as shown previously. Nevertheless, correlations between levels in serum and feathers were found significant in three cases only (i.e. CB 170, CB 180 and CB 187). This finding may be attributed to different factors, such as varying diet, condition, sample size or external contamination. In a second approach, cadavers of magpies were collected throughout Flanders. The preen gland was removed and the first, third and fifth tail feathers were pulled out at both sides. No significant differences were found among tail feathers within an individual. We compared three washing procedures to remove external contamination with organic pollutants from these feathers: deionised water, acetone and a surfactant/acetone solution. Right feathers were washed and left feathers were kept as control. Concentrations in the resulting washes were found highest in the acetone solutions. Furthermore, feathers washed with acetone or with a surfactant/acetone solution had significantly lower mean concentrations than the control feathers. Highest correlations with levels in preen gland were obtained for the control feathers. Consequently, the source of external contamination with organic pollutants onto feathers seems to be endogenous, originating from the preen gland. This is in great contrast to the extensive airborne pollution that has been reported for most heavy metals. In summary, the results of the current study highlight the usefulness of feathers for non-destructive biomonitoring of organic pollutants.}, }
@article {pmid18234440, year = {2008}, author = {Chung, HT and Lee, B and Park, E and Lu, JJ and Xia, P}, title = {Can all centers plan intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) effectively? An external audit of dosimetric comparisons between three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy and IMRT for adjuvant chemoradiation for gastric cancer.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {71}, number = {4}, pages = {1167-1174}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijrobp.2007.11.040}, pmid = {18234440}, issn = {0360-3016}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Chemotherapy, Adjuvant/standards/statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Clinical Audit ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Quality Assurance, Health Care ; Radiometry ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/methods/*standards ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*standards/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Singapore/epidemiology ; Stomach Neoplasms/*epidemiology/*therapy ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To compare dosimetric endpoints between three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) at our center with limited IMRT experience, and to perform an external audit of the IMRT plans.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: Ten patients, who received adjuvant chemoradiation for gastric cancer, formed the study cohort. For standardization, the planning target volume (PTV) and organs at risk were recontoured with the assistance of a study protocol radiologic atlas. The cohort was replanned with CMS Xio to generate coplanar 3D-CRT and IMRT plans. All 10 datasets, including volumes but without the plans (i.e., blinded), were transmitted to an experienced center where IMRT plans were designed using Nomos Corvus (IMRT-C) and ADAC Pinnacle (IMRT-P). All IMRT plans were normalized to D95% receiving 45 Gy.<br><br>RESULTS: Intensity-modulated radiotherapy yielded higher PTV V45 (volume that receives > or = 45 Gy) (p < 0.001) than 3D-CRT. No difference in V20 was seen in the right (p = 0.9) and left (p = 0.3) kidneys, but the liver mean dose (p < 0.001) was superior with IMRT. For the external audit, IMRT-C (p = 0.002) and IMRT-P (p < 0.001) achieved significantly lower left kidney V20 than IMRT, and IMRT-P (p < 0.001) achieved lower right kidney V20 than IMRT. The IMRT-C (p = 0.003) but not IMRT-P (p = 0.6) had lower liver mean doses than IMRT.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: At our institution with early IMRT experience, IMRT improved PTV dose coverage and liver doses but not kidney doses. An external audit of IMRT plans showed that an experienced center can yield superior IMRT plans.}, }
@article {pmid18229474, year = {2007}, author = {Colzato, LS and Spapé, M and Pannebakker, MM and Hommel, B}, title = {Working memory and the attentional blink: blink size is predicted by individual differences in operation span.}, journal = {Psychonomic bulletin &amp; review}, volume = {14}, number = {6}, pages = {1051-1057}, pmid = {18229474}, issn = {1069-9384}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Attentional Blink ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {The attentional blink (AB) is often attributed to resource limitations, but the nature of these resources is commonly underspecified. Recent observations rule out access to short-term memory or storage capacity as limiting factors, but operation bottlenecks are still an option. We considered the operation span of working memory (WM) as a possible factor and investigated the relationship between individual WM operation span (as measured by OSPAN), fluid intelligence (as measures by Raven's SPM), and the size of the AB. WM operation span was negatively correlated with the AB, whereas fluid intelligence was associated with higher overall accuracy but not with AB magnitude. These results support the idea that individual processing limitations (with regard to either attentional allocation policies or the speed of global cortical integration processes) play a key role in the AB.}, }
@article {pmid18220481, year = {2008}, author = {Schmidt, KA and Ostfeld, RS}, title = {Eavesdropping squirrels reduce their future value of food under the perceived presence of cache robbers.}, journal = {The American naturalist}, volume = {171}, number = {3}, pages = {386-393}, doi = {10.1086/527497}, pmid = {18220481}, issn = {1537-5323}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; *Competitive Behavior ; *Feeding Behavior ; Food ; New York ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Sciuridae/*physiology ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Caching behavior frequently occurs within a social context that may include heterospecific cache pilferers. All else equal, the value of cacheable food should decline as the probability of cache recovering declines. We manipulated gray squirrels' (Sciurus carolinensis) estimate of the probability of cache recovery using experimental playbacks of the vocalizations of a potential cache robber, the blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata). We used giving-up densities (GUDs) to quantify relative changes in squirrels' valuation of cacheable and noncacheable foods. We collected GUDs during playback experiments to test whether squirrels (1) eavesdrop on vocalizations to detect jay presence, (2) devalue cacheable food in the (perceived) presence of jays (i.e., perceive jays as cache pilferers), and (3) are sensitive to distant effects (i.e., lower devaluation of cacheable food at sites far from the perceived location of jays). Consistent with our predictions, squirrels decreased the value of cacheable hazelnuts by two nuts, on average, during jay playbacks, but only at foraging stations near the jay playback sites. We conclude that through eavesdropping, squirrels assess site-specific risks of cache pilfering and alter their caching behavior to reduce the likelihood of pilferage. Evidence suggests that tree seed consumers in eastern deciduous forests exist within a complex communication network.}, }
@article {pmid18217557, year = {2007}, author = {Boon, AC and Sandbulte, MR and Seiler, P and Webby, RJ and Songserm, T and Guan, Y and Webster, RG}, title = {Role of terrestrial wild birds in ecology of influenza A virus (H5N1).}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {13}, number = {11}, pages = {1720-1724}, pmid = {18217557}, issn = {1080-6040}, support = {N01AI95357/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/*virology ; Birds/blood/*virology ; Disease Susceptibility ; Ecology ; Hemagglutination Inhibition Tests/methods ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/isolation &amp; purification/*physiology ; Influenza in Birds/blood/*virology ; Virus Replication ; Virus Shedding ; }, abstract = {House sparrows, European starlings, and Carneux pigeons were inoculated with 4 influenza A (H5N1) viruses isolated from different avian species. We monitored viral replication, death after infection, and transmission to uninfected contact birds of the same species. Sparrows were susceptible to severe infection; 66%-100% of birds died within 4-7 days. High levels of virus were detected from oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs and in organs of deceased sparrows. Inoculation of starlings caused no deaths, despite high levels of virus shedding evident in oropharyngeal swabs. Least susceptible were pigeons, which had no deaths and very low levels of virus in oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs. Transmission to contact birds did not occur frequently: only A/common magpie/Hong Kong/645/2006 virus was shown to transmit to 1 starling. In summary, recent influenza (H5N1) viruses are pathogenic for small terrestrial bird species but the rate of intraspecies transmission in these hosts is very low.}, }
@article {pmid18211881, year = {2008}, author = {Ovaskainen, O and Cano, JM and Merilä, J}, title = {A Bayesian framework for comparative quantitative genetics.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {275}, number = {1635}, pages = {669-678}, pmid = {18211881}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Bayes Theorem ; Biological Evolution ; Body Size ; Computer Simulation ; Genetics, Population/*methods ; *Models, Genetic ; Monte Carlo Method ; Pedigree ; Rana temporaria/*genetics ; Tail/anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {Bayesian approaches have been extensively used in animal breeding sciences, but similar approaches in the context of evolutionary quantitative genetics have been rare. We compared the performance of Bayesian and frequentist approaches in estimation of quantitative genetic parameters (viz. matrices of additive and dominance variances) in datasets typical of evolutionary studies and traits differing in their genetic architecture. Our results illustrate that it is difficult to disentangle the relative roles of different genetic components from small datasets, and that ignoring, e.g. dominance is likely to lead to biased estimates of additive variance. We suggest that a natural summary statistic for G-matrix comparisons can be obtained by examining how different the underlying multinormal probability distributions are, and illustrate our approach with data on the common frog (Rana temporaria). Furthermore, we derive a simple Monte Carlo method for computation of fraternity coefficients needed for the estimation of dominance variance, and use the pedigree of a natural Siberian jay (Perisoreus infaustus) population to illustrate that the commonly used approximate values can be substantially biased.}, }
@article {pmid18211596, year = {2008}, author = {Lee, HK and Seo, YK and Baek, JH and Koh, JS}, title = {Comparison between ultrasonography (Dermascan C version 3) and transparency profilometry (Skin Visiometer SV600).}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {8-12}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-0846.2007.00257.x}, pmid = {18211596}, issn = {0909-752X}, mesh = {Adult ; Dermis/anatomy &amp; histology/diagnostic imaging/pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional/*methods ; Middle Aged ; Silicone Gels ; Skin/anatomy &amp; histology/*diagnostic imaging/*pathology ; Skin Aging/*pathology ; Ultrasonography/methods ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: A recently developed method to estimate skin smoothness is the replica method, which may have the limitation of the roughness difference of actual skin due to the skin-replicating process. Therefore, observation of dermal layer change is very important. For this purpose, ultrasonic display equipment is generally used. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the correlation between skin roughness and dermal density in wrinkle evaluation.<br><br>METHODS: We evaluated the crow's feet of 95 Korean females using mechanical assessments; Skin-Visiometer SV 600 and Dermascan C. Transparency profilometry (Skin Visiometer) use a very thin skin print, which allows parallel light to pass through and is analyzed immediately after production. High-frequency (20 MHz) ultrasonography (Dermascan C) enables non-invasive evaluation of skin thickness and echo density.<br><br>RESULTS: We found a correlation between skin roughness and dermal density. Particularly, we found a significant correlation between skin roughness (R2) and dermal thickness. Also, we found a significant negative correlation between dermal density and dermal thickness (P<0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Therefore, the ultrasonography system may be considered a very useful method in wrinkle evaluation with the transparency profilometry. However, further study will be required.}, }
@article {pmid18208569, year = {2008}, author = {Waller, DM and Dole, J and Bersch, AJ}, title = {Effects of stress and phenotypic variation on inbreeding depression in Brassica rapa.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {62}, number = {4}, pages = {917-931}, doi = {10.1111/j.1558-5646.2008.00325.x}, pmid = {18208569}, issn = {0014-3820}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Physiological ; Brassica rapa/genetics/*physiology ; Environment ; *Genetic Load ; Genetic Variation ; *Inbreeding ; *Phenotype ; Population Density ; Salinity ; Seeds/physiology ; Water/physiology ; }, abstract = {Stressful environments are often said to increase the expression of inbreeding depression. Alternatively, Crow's "opportunity for selection" (the squared phenotypic coefficient of variation) sets a limit to how much selection can occur, constraining the magnitude of inbreeding depression. To test these hypotheses, we planted self- and cross-fertilized seeds of Brassica rapa into a factorial experiment that varied plant density and saline watering stresses. We then repeated the experiment, reducing the salt concentration. We observed considerable inbreeding depression, particularly for survival in the first experiment and growth in the second. Both stresses independently depressed plant performance. Families differed in their amounts of inbreeding depression and reaction norms across environments. Outcrossed progeny were sometimes more variable. Stresses had small and inconsistent effects on inbreeding depression and, when significant, tended to diminish it. Levels of phenotypic variability often predicted whether inbreeding depression would increase or decrease across environments and were particularly effective in predicting which traits display the most inbreeding depression. Thus, we find little support for the stress hypothesis and mixed support for the phenotypic variability hypothesis. Variable levels of phenotypic variation provide a parsimonious explanation for shifts in inbreeding depression that should be tested before invoking more complex hypotheses.}, }
@article {pmid18208319, year = {2008}, author = {Andersen, MC and Engström, PG and Lithwick, S and Arenillas, D and Eriksson, P and Lenhard, B and Wasserman, WW and Odeberg, J}, title = {In silico detection of sequence variations modifying transcriptional regulation.}, journal = {PLoS computational biology}, volume = {4}, number = {1}, pages = {e5}, pmid = {18208319}, issn = {1553-7358}, support = {69153/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; }, mesh = {Algorithms ; Binding Sites ; Genetic Variation/*genetics ; Internet ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide/*genetics ; Protein Binding ; Regulatory Elements, Transcriptional/*genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA/*methods ; *Software ; Transcription Factors/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Identification of functional genetic variation associated with increased susceptibility to complex diseases can elucidate genes and underlying biochemical mechanisms linked to disease onset and progression. For genes linked to genetic diseases, most identified causal mutations alter an encoded protein sequence. Technological advances for measuring RNA abundance suggest that a significant number of undiscovered causal mutations may alter the regulation of gene transcription. However, it remains a challenge to separate causal genetic variations from linked neutral variations. Here we present an in silico driven approach to identify possible genetic variation in regulatory sequences. The approach combines phylogenetic footprinting and transcription factor binding site prediction to identify variation in candidate cis-regulatory elements. The bioinformatics approach has been tested on a set of SNPs that are reported to have a regulatory function, as well as background SNPs. In the absence of additional information about an analyzed gene, the poor specificity of binding site prediction is prohibitive to its application. However, when additional data is available that can give guidance on which transcription factor is involved in the regulation of the gene, the in silico binding site prediction improves the selection of candidate regulatory polymorphisms for further analyses. The bioinformatics software generated for the analysis has been implemented as a Web-based application system entitled RAVEN (regulatory analysis of variation in enhancers). The RAVEN system is available at http://www.cisreg.ca for all researchers interested in the detection and characterization of regulatory sequence variation.}, }
@article {pmid18196380, year = {2008}, author = {Mumford, EB}, title = {Early active motion in joint pain and stiffness : E. B. Mumford MD (1879-1961) . The 13th president of the AAOS 1944-1945.}, journal = {Clinical orthopaedics and related research}, volume = {466}, number = {1}, pages = {113-116}, doi = {10.1007/s11999-007-0022-5}, pmid = {18196380}, issn = {0009-921X}, mesh = {Arthralgia/*history ; Early Ambulation/*history/methods ; Fracture Fixation/*history ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Orthopedics/history ; Range of Motion, Articular ; }, abstract = {E. Bishop (“Bish”) Mumford was born in 1879 in Indiana [2] (most likely in or near New Harmony, the birthplace of both of his parents, who were committed to Robert Owen’s concept of that socialistic community established by Owen in 1826 [4]). He graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1901 and Johns Hopkins in 1905. He obtained postgraduate training at Boston Children’s Hospital and Gouverneur’s Hospital (a hospital originally established to provide care for low income patients of color) in New York. He returned to Indiana to establish a practice in children’s orthopaedics. His practice was interrupted by WW I, where he served as a captain in a base hospital in France. He returned after the war and in 1920 opened the Indianapolis Industrial Clinic with Dr. Jay Reed. He later was appointed to the faculty at the Medical College of Indiana and was one of the first surgeons appointed to the James Whitcomb Riley Hospital for Crippled Children and the first surgeon appointed to the Veteran’s Administration Hospital of Indiana. He continued his appointments at these and other hospitals until his death. Dr. Mumford was one of the founding members of the AAOS, and was one of eight members listed as attending the business meeting of the Clinical Orthopaedic Society, October 30, 1931, where the concept of a new national organization was discussed [1]. While the record is not entirely clear, Mumford apparently served on the Executive Committee of the AAOS from 1931 (when according to Heck the AAOS was chartered [3]) until 1944, then as President-Elect, President from 1945–1946, and continued on the Executive Committee until 1950 [2]; that being the case, he would have served on the Executive longer than any of the original founders (and perhaps longer than anyone since). He is the only AAOS President to have served two terms: at the written request of the Office of Defense Transportation in 1944, the January, 1945 meeting was canceled, and he remained President during the subsequent year, presiding over the 1946 meeting. He was active in the AOA and the Clinical Orthopaedic Society (he served as Secretary-Treasurer, Vice-President, and President in 1933, the year of the first meeting of the AAOS), as well as the Indianapolis Board of Health, the American College of Surgeons and other organizations. Among all of his many clinical responsibilities and activities in the 1930s, he found time to assume from his father the management of his family’s 5800 acre farm in Indiana. The article we reproduce here expresses Mumford’s belief in early mobilization of injured joints. “The motion you gain through early mobilization of the joint,” he maintained, “you do not lose. The motion you lose through long fixation of the joint may be permanent.” This article, published in 1960, undoubtedly reflected concepts he developed through his long experience with industrial injuries. [Figure: see text] References 1. Brown T. The American Orthopaedic Association: A Centennial History. Chicago, IL: The American Orthopaedic Association; 1987. 2. E. Bishop Mumford. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 1962;44:579–581. 3. Heck CV. Fifty Years of Progress: In Recognition of the 50th Anniversary of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Chicago, IL: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons; 1983. 4. Robert Owen. Wikipedia Web site. Available at: http://www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Owen. Accessed August 29, 2007.}, }
@article {pmid18189327, year = {2008}, author = {Jacob, J and Leukers, A}, title = {Preference of birds for zinc phosphide bait formulations.}, journal = {Pest management science}, volume = {64}, number = {1}, pages = {74-80}, doi = {10.1002/ps.1476}, pmid = {18189327}, issn = {1526-498X}, mesh = {Animal Feed ; Animals ; Columbidae/*physiology ; Coturnix/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Phosphines/*toxicity ; Rodent Control ; Rodenticides/toxicity ; Time Factors ; Zinc Compounds/*toxicity ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Zinc phosphide baits are used for controlling pest rodents but are also highly toxic to other vertebrates. The base for rodent baits containing zinc phosphide is usually wheat kernels which are highly attractive to birds. In this study, wheat-based pellets of different shapes and colours without zinc phosphide were tested for their attractiveness for pigeons (Columba livia Gmelin) and Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica Temm. &amp; Schleg.) in aviaries and for pigeons and corvids (Corvus monedula L., Corvus corone L., Pica pica L.) in the field.<br><br>RESULTS: In aviaries, wheat was clearly preferred over other bait. In the field, some bait formulations were avoided by birds in certain conditions. However, no formulation was avoided consistently across species to lower the potential uptake of zinc phosphide below the LD(50) for highly susceptible bird species (8 mg kg(-1) body weight). The formulations that were not rapidly eaten by birds (blue granules, red lentil-shaped pellets) were not avoided consistently at low and high vegetative cover.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The bait formulations tested may not considerably enhance the safety of birds when using zinc phosphide for rodent control. Field testing other combinations of bait colour and shape to minimise background contrast may result in bait with higher potential for bird protection.}, }
@article {pmid18186183, year = {2007}, author = {Iatsentiuk, SP and Obukhov, IL}, title = {[Molecular genetic characterization of avian Chlamydophila psittaci isolates].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {43}, number = {11}, pages = {1454-1460}, pmid = {18186183}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Animals ; Bacterial Outer Membrane Proteins/genetics ; Birds/*microbiology ; Chlamydophila psittaci/*classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; *Genetic Variation ; Phylogeny ; Plasmids/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; }, abstract = {Restriction enzyme analysis of the omp1 gene was used to characterize 51 avian Chlamydophila psittaci isolates. The analysis confirmed the predominance of genotype A in parrot C. psittaci isolates and revealed new omp1 genotypes in corvid C. psittaci isolates. The corvid isolates proved to lack an extrachromosomal plasmid. The omp1 and rRNA IGS sequences were determined for the new isolates. Phylogenetic analysis showed that isolate 1V, obtained from a crow, is intermediate in several characters between C. abortus and C. psittaci. The results were compared with data on the phylogenetic relationships of earlier chlamydium isolates.}, }
@article {pmid18177716, year = {2008}, author = {Griesser, M}, title = {Referential calls signal predator behavior in a group-living bird species.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {18}, number = {1}, pages = {69-73}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2007.11.069}, pmid = {18177716}, issn = {0960-9822}, mesh = {Animals ; Hawks/*physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Predatory Behavior ; Social Behavior ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Predation is a powerful agent of natural selection, driving the evolution of antipredator calls [1]. These calls have been shown to communicate predator category [2-4] and/or predator distance to conspecifics [5-7]. However, the risk posed by predators depends also on predator behavior [8], and the ability of prey to communicate predator behavior to conspecifics would be a selective advantage reducing their predation risk. I tested this idea in Siberian jays (Perisoreus infaustus), a group-living bird species. Predation by hawks, and to a lesser extent by owls, is substantial and the sole cause of mortality in adult jays [9]. By using field data and predator-exposure experiments, I show here that jays used antipredator calls for hawks depending on predator behavior. A playback experiment demonstrated that these prey-to-prey calls were specific to hawk behavior (perch, prey search, attack) and elicited distinct, situation-specific escape responses. This is the first study to demonstrate that prey signals convey information about predator behavior to conspecifics. Given that antipredator calls in jays aim at protecting kin group members [10, 11], consequently lowering their mortality [9], kin-selected benefits could be an important factor for the evolution of predator-behavior-specific antipredator calls in such systems.}, }
@article {pmid18177178, year = {2008}, author = {Jensen, KK and Larsen, ON and Attenborough, K}, title = {Measurements and predictions of hooded crow (Corvus corone cornix) call propagation over open field habitats.}, journal = {The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America}, volume = {123}, number = {1}, pages = {507}, doi = {10.1121/1.2817363}, pmid = {18177178}, issn = {1520-8524}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows ; *Ecosystem ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {In a study of hooded crow communication over open fields an excellent correspondence is found between the attenuation spectra predicted by a "turbulence-modified ground effect plus atmospheric absorption" model, and crow call attenuation data. Sound propagation predictions and background noise measurements are used to predict an optimal frequency range for communication ("sound communication window") from an average of crow call spectra predicted for every possible combination of the sender/receiver separations 300, 600, 900, and 1200 m and heights 3,6,9 m thereby creating a matrix assumed relevant to crow interterritorial communication. These predictions indicate an optimal frequency range for sound communication between 500 Hz and 2 kHz. Since this corresponds to the frequency range in which crow calls have their main energy and crow hearing in noise is particularly sensitive, it suggests a specific adaptation to the ground effect. Sound propagation predictions, together with background noise measurements and hearing data, are used to estimate the radius of the hooded crow active space. This is found to be roughly 1 km in moderately windy conditions. It is concluded that the propagation modeling of the sort introduced here could be used for assessing the impact of human noise on animal communication.}, }
@article {pmid18175614, year = {2007}, author = {Rose, AC}, title = {The discovery of southern childhoods: psychology and the transformation of schooling in the Jim Crow South.}, journal = {History of psychology}, volume = {10}, number = {3}, pages = {249-278}, doi = {10.1037/1093-4510.10.3.249}, pmid = {18175614}, issn = {1093-4510}, mesh = {Black or African American/*history/psychology ; Child ; Education/*history ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Poverty/history ; Prejudice ; Psychology, Child/*history ; Race Relations/*history/psychology ; Social Change/history ; Southeastern United States ; White People/*history/psychology ; }, abstract = {Although the psychology of race in America has been the subject of significant research, psychological science in the principal region of racial interaction before Brown v. Board of Education-the South--has received little attention. This article argues that the introduction of psychological ideas about children by means of school reform in the South during the half-century before the Brown decision established a cultural foundation for both Black resistance to segregated schools and White determination to preserve them. In 1900, southern children and their schools were an afterthought in a culture more committed to tradition and racial stability than innovation and individual achievement. The advent of northern philanthropy, however, brought with it a new psychology of childhood. Although the reformers did not intend to subvert segregation, their premises downplayed natural endowment, including racial inheritance, and favored concepts highlighting nurture: that personality is developmental, childhood foundational, and adversity detrimental. Decades of discussion of children in their learning environment gave southern Blacks a rationale for protest and Whites a logical defense for conservative reaction.}, }
@article {pmid18166662, year = {2008}, author = {Hayden, J and Cottrell, R and Bernhardt, J}, title = {Ascending the career ladder, with Dr. Jay Bernhardt.}, journal = {Health promotion practice}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {12-15}, doi = {10.1177/1524839907310526}, pmid = {18166662}, issn = {1524-8399}, mesh = {*Career Mobility ; Health Education ; Health Promotion ; Humans ; United States ; }, abstract = {There are many options available for enhancing one's career, including acquiring further education, obtaining certifications, learning new tools of the trade, and writing for publication, to name just a few. Over the years, many of these have been addressed in this journal. One that has not is career development through studying successful careers of others. For the first career case study, the authors are delighted to present Dr. Jay Bernhardt, director of the National Center for Health Marketing at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta.}, }
@article {pmid18164280, year = {2008}, author = {Schabus, M and Hoedlmoser, K and Pecherstorfer, T and Anderer, P and Gruber, G and Parapatics, S and Sauter, C and Kloesch, G and Klimesch, W and Saletu, B and Zeitlhofer, J}, title = {Interindividual sleep spindle differences and their relation to learning-related enhancements.}, journal = {Brain research}, volume = {1191}, number = {}, pages = {127-135}, pmid = {18164280}, issn = {0006-8993}, support = {J 2470/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Association Learning/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Electroencephalography ; Evoked Potentials/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Individuality ; Male ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; Polysomnography ; Reference Values ; Sleep/*physiology ; Verbal Learning/*physiology ; }, abstract = {We reported earlier that overnight change in explicit memory is positively related to the change in sleep spindle activity (between a control and a learning night). However, it remained unclear whether this effect was restricted to good memory performers and whether a general association of sleep spindles and a "sleep-related learning trait" may not account for this effect. Here we now present a secondary and more detailed analysis of our randomized multicenter study. Subjects were studied over a 4-week study period (including actigraphy and daily sleep diaries), including three overnight stays in the sleep laboratory. In the course of the study, subjects completed test-batteries of memory (Wechsler-Memory-Scale-revised; WMS) and other cognitive abilities (Raven's Advanced-Progressive-Matrices; APM) and were asked to study 160 word pairs in the evening before being tested by cued-recall. Afterwards, subjects went to bed in the laboratory with full polysomnographic montages. Additionally, subjects participated on another occasion in a non-learning control (perceptual priming) task that was counterbalanced either before or after the learning condition. Slow as well as fast spindle activities were analyzed at frontopolar and central topographies. Although it was found that spindle activity is generally (in learning as well as control nights) elevated in highly gifted subjects, spindle analyses revealed that spindle increase (control to learning night) is specifically related to explicit memory improvement overnight, independent of individual learning traits. Together these findings suggest that the spindle increase after learning is related to elaborate encoding before sleep, whereas an individual's general learning ability is well reflected in interindividual (and trait-like) differences of absolute sleep spindle activity.}, }
@article {pmid18159433, year = {2003}, author = {Drebot, MA and Lindsay, R and Barker, IK and Buck, PA and Fearon, M and Hunter, F and Sockett, P and Artsob, H}, title = {West Nile virus surveillance and diagnostics: A Canadian perspective.}, journal = {The Canadian journal of infectious diseases = Journal canadien des maladies infectieuses}, volume = {14}, number = {2}, pages = {105-114}, pmid = {18159433}, issn = {1180-2332}, abstract = {A surveillance program has been in place since 2000 to detect the presence of West Nile virus (WNV) in Canada. Serological assays are most appropriate when monitoring for human disease and undertaking case investigations. Genomic amplification procedures are more commonly used for testing animal and mosquito specimens collected as part of ongoing surveillance efforts. The incursion of WNV into this country was documented for the first time in 2001 when WNV was demonstrated in 12 Ontario health units during the late summer and fall. In 2002 WNV activity was documented by avian surveillance in Ontario by mid-May with subsequent expansion of the virus throughout Ontario and into Quebec, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Nova Scotia. Human cases were recorded in both Ontario and Quebec in 2002 with approximately 800 to 1000 probable, confirmed and suspect cases detected. The possible recurrence and further spread of WNV to other parts of Canada in 2003 must be anticipated with potential risk to public health. The continued surveillance and monitoring for WNV-associated human illness is necessary and appropriate disease prevention measures need to be in place in 2003.}, }
@article {pmid18095479, year = {2007}, author = {Tsukahara, N and Aoyama, M and Sugita, S}, title = {[Differences in vocalization and morphology of the syrinx between Carrion crows (Corvus corone) and Jungle crows (C. macrorhynchos)].}, journal = {Kaibogaku zasshi. Journal of anatomy}, volume = {82}, number = {4}, pages = {129-135}, pmid = {18095479}, issn = {0022-7722}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Female ; Laryngeal Muscles/anatomy &amp; histology ; Larynx/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Male ; Sound Spectrography ; Species Specificity ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {The vocal characteristics and the morph of the syrinx in Carrion crows (Corvus corone) and those in Jungle crows (C. macrorhynchos) were compared. The vocalizations of both species of crow were recorded into sonograms and analyzed. The appearance and inner configuration of the syrinx were observed using stereoscopic microscope. In addition, the inside diameter of the syrinx, the sizes of the labia and the attached position of the syringeal muscles were measured. The attached figures of syringeal muscles were different between the two species. The vocalizations of Carrion crows were noisier than possibly because their labias were noticeably smaller than those of Jungle crows. The attachment patterns of the syringeal muscles in Jungle crows suggested that they allow for more flexibility on the inside structure of the syrinx. The inner space of the syrinx in Jungle crows was also wider than those of Carrion crows. These results suggested that Jungle crows may be able to make various vocalizations because of these morphological characteristics.}, }
@article {pmid18095280, year = {2009}, author = {Perfetti, B and Saggino, A and Ferretti, A and Caulo, M and Romani, GL and Onofrj, M}, title = {Differential patterns of cortical activation as a function of fluid reasoning complexity.}, journal = {Human brain mapping}, volume = {30}, number = {2}, pages = {497-510}, pmid = {18095280}, issn = {1097-0193}, mesh = {Adult ; Brain Mapping ; Cerebral Cortex/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Functional Laterality/physiology ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Mental Processes/*physiology ; Nerve Net/physiology ; Parietal Lobe/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Thinking/*physiology ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {Fluid intelligence (gf) refers to abstract reasoning and problem solving abilities. It is considered a human higher cognitive factor central to general intelligence (g). The regions of the cortex supporting gf have been revealed by recent bioimaging studies and valuable hypothesis on the neural correlates of individual differences have been proposed. However, little is known about the interaction between individual variability in gf and variation in cortical activity following task complexity increase. To further investigate this, two samples of participants (high-IQ, N = 8; low-IQ, N = 10) with significant differences in gf underwent two reasoning (moderate and complex) tasks and a control task adapted from the Raven progressive matrices. Functional magnetic resonance was used and the recorded signal analyzed between and within the groups. The present study revealed two opposite patterns of neural activity variation which were probably a reflection of the overall differences in cognitive resource modulation: when complexity increased, high-IQ subjects showed a signal enhancement in some frontal and parietal regions, whereas low-IQ subjects revealed a decreased activity in the same areas. Moreover, a direct comparison between the groups' activation patterns revealed a greater neural activity in the low-IQ sample when conducting moderate task, with a strong involvement of medial and lateral frontal regions thus suggesting that the recruitment of executive functioning might be different between the groups. This study provides evidence for neural differences in facing reasoning complexity among subjects with different gf level that are mediated by specific patterns of activation of the underlying fronto-parietal network.}, }
@article {pmid18093014, year = {2007}, author = {Flynn, TC}, title = {Botox in men.}, journal = {Dermatologic therapy}, volume = {20}, number = {6}, pages = {407-413}, doi = {10.1111/j.1529-8019.2007.00156.x}, pmid = {18093014}, issn = {1529-8019}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Esthetics ; Humans ; Injections, Subcutaneous ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Patient Satisfaction ; Rejuvenation ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {Men have a growing interest in cosmetic dermatologic treatments. Botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) treatment offers a minimally invasive approach to improving facial lines and is often the first cosmetic procedure chosen by male patients. In general, men can be treated with the same techniques as women, but often require more units of BTX-A. Glabellar lines in the male have been the most well-studied with a recommended starting dose of 40 U. Some men may require up to 80 U in the glabellar complex. The most common cause of an inadequate result in male patients is under-dosing. Forehead lines require care, as many men with horizontal lines have low-positioned eyebrows, and excessive relaxation of the lower frontalis muscle can drop their brows further. Special consideration should be given to the male brow when treating men. Lateral orbital lines can be treated with a starting dose of 15 U per crow's foot. Men may need additional injections to the orbicularis oculi muscle as many men have a broad circumferential orbicularis. The lower face is amenable to BTX-A treatment in men. BTX-A can be used to reduce axillary sweating and improve armpit odor. BTX-A shows promise in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia, and may in the future become a first-line treatment.}, }
@article {pmid18085921, year = {2007}, author = {Scheid, C and Range, F and Bugnyar, T}, title = {When, what, and whom to watch? Quantifying attention in ravens (Corvus corax) and jackdaws (Corvus monedula).}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {121}, number = {4}, pages = {380-386}, doi = {10.1037/0735-7036.121.4.380}, pmid = {18085921}, issn = {0735-7036}, mesh = {Animals ; Attention/*physiology ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Sex Factors ; *Social Behavior ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Complex social life requires monitoring of conspecifics. The amount and focus of attention toward others has been suggested to depend on the social relationships between individuals. Yet there are surprisingly few experiments that have tested these assumptions. This study compared attention patterns toward conspecifics in two corvid species, ravens (Corvus corax) and jackdaws (Corvus monedula). Birds were confronted with affiliated and non-affiliated conspecifics engaged in foraging and object manipulation. Visual access to the model bird was provided through two observation holes, which allowed measurement of exactly how often and for how long observers watched the other. Overall, ravens were more attentive to conspecifics than were jackdaws. Moreover, only ravens showed higher interest toward food-related than object-related behaviors of the model and toward close affiliates than non-affiliates by increasing the duration rather than the frequency of looks. These results are in accordance with predictions derived from the species' foraging biology and suggest that the facultative social, but highly manipulative, ravens use and value information from others differently than do the obligate social jackdaws.}, }
@article {pmid18085920, year = {2007}, author = {Bond, AB and Kamil, AC and Balda, RP}, title = {Serial reversal learning and the evolution of behavioral flexibility in three species of North American corvids (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus, Nucifraga columbiana, Aphelocoma californica).}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {121}, number = {4}, pages = {372-379}, doi = {10.1037/0735-7036.121.4.372}, pmid = {18085920}, issn = {0735-7036}, support = {R01-MH069893/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological ; Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Choice Behavior ; Conditioning, Operant/*physiology ; Discrimination Learning/*physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Reversal Learning/*physiology ; Serial Learning/*physiology ; Space Perception/physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {In serial reversal learning, subjects learn to respond differentially to 2 stimuli. When the task is fully acquired, reward contingencies are reversed, requiring the subject to relearn the altered associations. This alternation of acquisition and reversal can be repeated many times, and the ability of a species to adapt to this regimen has been considered as an indication of behavioral flexibility. Serial reversal learning of 2-choice discriminations was contrasted in 3 related species of North American corvids: pinyon jays (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus), which are highly social; Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana), which are relatively solitary but specialized for spatial memory; and western scrub jays (Aphelocoma californica), which are ecological generalists. Pinyon jays displayed significantly lower error rates than did nutcrackers or scrub jays after reversal of reward contingencies for both spatial and color stimuli. The effect was most apparent in the 1st session following each reversal and did not reflect species differences in the rate of initial discrimination learning. All 3 species improved their performance over successive reversals and showed significant transfer between color and spatial tasks, suggesting a generalized learning strategy. The results are consistent with an evolutionary association between behavioral flexibility and social complexity.}, }
@article {pmid18080853, year = {2008}, author = {Russo, C and Morabito, F and Luise, F and Piromalli, A and Battaglia, L and Vinci, A and Trapani Lombardo, V and de Marco, V and Morabito, P and Condino, F and Quattrone, A and Aguglia, U}, title = {Hyperhomocysteinemia is associated with cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis.}, journal = {Journal of neurology}, volume = {255}, number = {1}, pages = {64-69}, pmid = {18080853}, issn = {0340-5354}, mesh = {Age of Onset ; Brain/metabolism/physiopathology ; Cognition Disorders/*blood/*etiology/physiopathology ; Disability Evaluation ; Disease Progression ; Folic Acid/blood ; Homocysteine/blood ; Hyperhomocysteinemia/*blood/*complications/physiopathology ; Multiple Sclerosis/*blood/*complications/psychology ; Multivariate Analysis ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Up-Regulation/physiology ; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency/blood/complications/physiopathology ; }, abstract = {Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) has been associated with cognitive impairment in various neurological diseases. Cognitive impairment occurs early in multiple sclerosis (MS). Conflicting data have been reported regarding plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) levels in MS patients, and the impact of HHcy on cognitive impairment in MS is not known. This study investigated whether plasma total homocysteine levels are increased in MS and if HHcy is associated with cognitive impairment in MS. We compared tHcy levels in 94 patients with MS and 53 healthy age-matched controls. We used a neuropsychological test battery that included the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, the Visual Search Test, the Trail Making Test A and B, the Immediate and Delayed Recall of a Short Story, the 30 Paired Word Associates, the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test, and the Semantic and Verbal Fluency Tests. Clinical (sex, age, type of MS, relapse, disease duration, coexisting disease, smoking habit, and physical disability) and laboratory variables (HHcy, low serum levels of folate and vit.B12, MTHFR genotype) were evaluated for their ability to predict cognitive impairment. The mean tHcy was higher in patients (13.19 micromol/L, SD5.58) than in controls (9.81 micromol/L, SD2.53; p < 0.001). Univariate analysis determined the following factors to be associated with cognitive impairment: higher age at observation, chronic progressive course of disease, longer disease duration,moderate or severe physical disability, and frequency of HHcy. With multivariate regression analysis, there remained a significant association only between frequency of HHcy and cognitive impairment (beta 0.262, p = 0.01). We conclude that tHcy levels are increased in MS and that HHcy is associated with cognitive impairment in this disease.}, }
@article {pmid18077380, year = {2007}, author = {Wheat, CW and Vogel, H and Wittstock, U and Braby, MF and Underwood, D and Mitchell-Olds, T}, title = {The genetic basis of a plant-insect coevolutionary key innovation.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {104}, number = {51}, pages = {20427-20431}, pmid = {18077380}, issn = {1091-6490}, mesh = {Animals ; Butterflies/classification/*genetics ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Glucosinolates/metabolism ; Insect Proteins/*genetics/metabolism ; Magnoliopsida/classification/*genetics ; Nitriles/*metabolism ; Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {Ehrlich and Raven formally introduced the concept of stepwise coevolution using butterfly and angiosperm interactions in an attempt to account for the impressive biological diversity of these groups. However, many biologists currently envision butterflies evolving 50 to 30 million years (Myr) after the major angiosperm radiation and thus reject coevolutionary origins of butterfly biodiversity. The unresolved central tenet of Ehrlich and Raven's theory is that evolution of plant chemical defenses is followed closely by biochemical adaptation in insect herbivores, and that newly evolved detoxification mechanisms result in adaptive radiation of herbivore lineages. Using one of their original butterfly-host plant systems, the Pieridae, we identify a pierid glucosinolate detoxification mechanism, nitrile-specifier protein (NSP), as a key innovation. Larval NSP activity matches the distribution of glucosinolate in their host plants. Moreover, by using five different temporal estimates, NSP seems to have evolved shortly after the evolution of the host plant group (Brassicales) (approximately 10 Myr). An adaptive radiation of these glucosinolate-feeding Pierinae followed, resulting in significantly elevated species numbers compared with related clades. Mechanistic understanding in its proper historical context documents more ancient and dynamic plant-insect interactions than previously envisioned. Moreover, these mechanistic insights provide the tools for detailed molecular studies of coevolution from both the plant and insect perspectives.}, }
@article {pmid18073830, year = {1999}, author = {Yariv, A and Xu, Y and Lee, RK and Scherer, A}, title = {Coupled-resonator optical waveguide: a proposal and analysis.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {24}, number = {11}, pages = {711-713}, doi = {10.1364/ol.24.000711}, pmid = {18073830}, issn = {0146-9592}, abstract = {We propose a new type of optical waveguide that consists of a sequence of coupled high-Q resonators. Unlike other types of optical waveguide, waveguiding in the coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) is achieved through weak coupling between otherwise localized high-Q optical cavities. Employing a formalism similar to the tight-binding method in solid-state physics, we obtain the relations for the dispersion and the group velocity of the photonic band of the CROW's and find that they are solely characterized by coupling factor k(1) . We also demonstrate the possibility of highly efficient nonlinear optical frequency conversion and perfect transmission through bends in CROW's.}, }
@article {pmid18052787, year = {2008}, author = {Wendelken, C and Nakhabenko, D and Donohue, SE and Carter, CS and Bunge, SA}, title = {"Brain is to thought as stomach is to ??": investigating the role of rostrolateral prefrontal cortex in relational reasoning.}, journal = {Journal of cognitive neuroscience}, volume = {20}, number = {4}, pages = {682-693}, doi = {10.1162/jocn.2008.20055}, pmid = {18052787}, issn = {0898-929X}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Brain Mapping ; Concept Formation/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Linear Models ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Prefrontal Cortex/*physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Semantics ; Verbal Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Brain imaging studies suggest that the rostrolateral prefrontal cortex (RLPFC), is involved in relational reasoning. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies involving Raven's Progressive Matrices or verbal propositional analogies indicate that the RLPFC is engaged by tasks that require integration across multiple relational structures. Several studies have shown that the RLPFC is more active when people must evaluate an analogy (e.g., Is shoe to foot as glove is to hand?) than when they must simply evaluate two individual semantic relationships, consistent with the hypothesis that this region is important for relational integration. The current fMRI investigation further explores the role of the RLPFC in reasoning and relational integration by comparing RLPFC activation across four different propositional analogy conditions. Each of the four conditions required either relation completion (e.g., Shoe is to foot as glove is to WHAT? --> "hand") or relation comparison (e.g., Is shoe to foot as glove is to hand? --> "yes"). The RLPFC was engaged more strongly by the comparison subtask relative to completion, suggesting that the RLPFC is particularly involved in comparing relational structures.}, }
@article {pmid18047208, year = {2007}, author = {Nielsen, CF and Reisen, WK}, title = {West Nile virus-infected dead corvids increase the risk of infection in Culex mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in domestic landscapes.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {44}, number = {6}, pages = {1067-1073}, doi = {10.1603/0022-2585(2007)44[1067:wnvdci]2.0.co;2}, pmid = {18047208}, issn = {0022-2585}, mesh = {Animals ; Case-Control Studies ; Crows/*virology ; Culex/*virology ; Humans ; Risk Factors ; West Nile Fever/transmission/veterinary ; West Nile virus/*physiology ; }, abstract = {A comparative study of West Nile virus (family Flaviviridae, genus Flavivirus, WNV) infection rates in Culex mosquitoes collected at 13 sites, seven reporting WNV-positive dead corvids (case sites) and six without reported dead birds (control sites) was conducted in Davis, CA, from 14 to 21 July at the beginning of the 2006 WNV outbreak. In total, 3051 Culex mosquitoes were collected using gravid traps and CO2-baited traps; WNV-infected mosquitoes were only collected with CO2-baited traps. WNV-infected Culex pipiens L. were collected at one of the seven case sites. Six of seven case sites yielded WNV-infected Culex tarsalis Coquillett, whereas only one of six control sites had WNV-infected Cx. tarsalis. Overall, the odds of finding WNV-positive mosquitoes were 19.75 times greater at sites reporting a WNV-infected dead corvid than sites without a WNV-infected dead corvid. Maximum likelihood estimates of the overall infection rates at the case sites were 3.48/1000 for Cx. tarsalis and 8.69/1000 for Cx. pipiens compared with 1.02/1000 in Cx. tarsalis collected at the control sites. Results indicate that Cx. tarsalis was important in early season enzootic transmission within Davis and that sites reporting WNV-infected dead corvids are areas to focus control and surveillance efforts.}, }
@article {pmid18042996, year = {2007}, author = {Starr, JM and Deary, IJ and Fox, H and Whalley, LJ}, title = {Blood pressure and cognition in the Aberdeen 1936 birth cohort.}, journal = {Gerontology}, volume = {53}, number = {6}, pages = {432-437}, doi = {10.1159/000111696}, pmid = {18042996}, issn = {1423-0003}, support = {//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; //Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Aged ; *Blood Pressure ; *Cognition ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Health Surveys ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Mental Recall ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; United Kingdom ; Verbal Behavior ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The relationship between blood pressure and cognition in old age remains unclear. Some data indicate that elevated blood pressure causes cognitive deficits whilst others show that lower early life mental ability predicts high blood pressure in adulthood. Longitudinal studies in which mental ability earlier in life is known are needed to clarify the relationship.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To measure the effect of blood pressure on cognition in late adulthood after adjusting for early life mental ability.<br><br>METHODS: The sample comprised survivors of the 1947 Scottish Mental Survey who had validated IQ scores at age 11. Six cognitive tests - Mini-Mental State Examination, Raven's Progressive Matrices, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Uses of Common Objects Test, Digit Symbol Test and Block Design - were administered at ages 64, 66 and 68 years. Sitting and standing blood pressure was also measured at each wave of follow-up. Mixed general linear models were constructed with each cognitive test treated as a repeated measure of an underlying cognitive trait and with wave of testing also set as a repeated measure. Mental ability at age 11 was entered as a covariate.<br><br>RESULTS: 504 participants were tested at wave 1 with 368 returning at wave 2 and 300 at wave 3. Age 11 mental ability did not predict any of the blood pressure measures. There were several significant associations between blood pressure variables and cognitive test scores in univariate models. After adjusting for significant effects of wave of testing, type of cognitive test, the interaction between these, age 11 mental ability, age, gender and occupation in a multivariate model, the main effect of BP trait was no longer significant (p = 0.44) nor its effect over time (p = 0.26), though there was a significant interaction between blood pressure trait (BP) and test type with a distinctly negative effect of BP on Auditory Verbal Learning Test (p = 0.007, -0.13 points per mm Hg higher, 95% CI -0.22 to -0.033).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The effects of blood pressure on cognition in old age are finely nuanced. Multivariate repeated measures models reveal a differential effect of blood pressure on verbal recall.}, }
@article {pmid18042536, year = {2007}, author = {Tang, Z and Liu, W and Yin, H and Wang, P and Dong, J and Wang, Y and Chen, J}, title = {Investigation of intelligence quotient and psychomotor development in schoolchildren in areas with different degrees of iodine deficiency.}, journal = {Asia Pacific journal of clinical nutrition}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {731-737}, pmid = {18042536}, issn = {0964-7058}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Age Factors ; Child ; China/epidemiology ; Female ; Food, Fortified ; Goiter/drug therapy/*physiopathology/*psychology ; Humans ; Intelligence/drug effects/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Iodine/administration &amp; dosage/*deficiency ; Male ; Psychomotor Performance/drug effects/*physiology ; Sex Factors ; Sodium Chloride, Dietary/*administration &amp; dosage ; }, abstract = {This investigation aims to observe the intelligence and psychomotor development of the schoolchildren in iodine deficiency (ID) areas after the adoption of Universal Salt Iodization (USI), and evaluate the effect of the adoption of USI on their intelligence and psychomotor development. 564 schoolchildren (306 males and 258 females, age range from 8 to 13 yrs) from areas with severe, moderate, and mild ID were investigated. Intelligence quotient (IQ) was measured by Combined Raven's test, second edition. Psychomotor development was examined by Jinyi Psychomotor Test Battery (JPB). We found that the IQ scores of all subjects in the severe and moderate ID areas were 102 +/- 15.6 and 99.5 +/-16.6 respectively, lower than those in the mild ID areas (108 +/- 12.4, p < 0.01). The IQ scores correlated negatively with age (partial r = -0.17; beta = -1.95; p < 0.0001). The total T scores of JPB of all subjects in the severe and moderate ID areas were 316 +/- 42.3 and 330 +/- 47.7 respectively, lower than those in the mild ID areas (342 +/- 48.1, p < 0.05). The total T scores of JPB correlated negatively with age (partial r = -0.15; beta = -4.94; p = 0.0006). We may conclude that after the adoption of USI in the ID areas investigated, USI has probably made a contribution to the partial recovery of intelligence and psychomotor development injured by ID in schoolchildren, and should be strengthened.}, }
@article {pmid18040520, year = {2001}, author = {Olivier, S and Smith, C and Rattier, M and Benisty, H and Weisbuch, C and Krauss, T and Houdré, R and Oesterlé, U}, title = {Miniband transmission in a photonic crystal coupled-resonator optical waveguide.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {26}, number = {13}, pages = {1019-1021}, doi = {10.1364/ol.26.001019}, pmid = {18040520}, issn = {0146-9592}, abstract = {We demonstrate in the near infrared the coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) concept that was recently proposed by Yariv et al. [Opt. Lett.24, 711 (1999)]. Two-dimensional photonic crystals have been used to define, in a GaAs-based waveguiding heterostructure, an array of micrometer-sized hexagonal cavities coupled through thin walls. With the photoexcitation of InAs quantum dots as an internal source, the transmission spectra of the coupled resonators show marked minibands and minigaps, in agreement with theoretical predictions.}, }
@article {pmid18032885, year = {2008}, author = {Corfield, JR and Wild, JM and Hauber, ME and Parsons, S and Kubke, MF}, title = {Evolution of brain size in the Palaeognath lineage, with an emphasis on new zealand ratites.}, journal = {Brain, behavior and evolution}, volume = {71}, number = {2}, pages = {87-99}, doi = {10.1159/000111456}, pmid = {18032885}, issn = {1421-9743}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Biometry ; Body Weight ; Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Female ; Linear Models ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; New Zealand ; Organ Size ; Palaeognathae/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Skull/diagnostic imaging ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {Brain size in vertebrates varies principally with body size. Although many studies have examined the variation of brain size in birds, there is little information on Palaeognaths, which include the ratite lineage of kiwi, emu, ostrich and extinct moa, as well as the tinamous. Therefore, we set out to determine to what extent the evolution of brain size in Palaeognaths parallels that of other birds, i.e., Neognaths, by analyzing the variation in the relative sizes of the brain and cerebral hemispheres of several species of ratites and tinamous. Our results indicate that the Palaeognaths possess relatively smaller brains and cerebral hemispheres than the Neognaths, with the exception of the kiwi radiation (Apteryx spp.). The external morphology and relatively large size of the brain of Apteryx, as well as the relatively large size of its telencephalon, contrast with other Palaeognaths, including two species of historically sympatric moa, suggesting that unique selective pressures towards increasing brain size accompanied the evolution of kiwi. Indeed, the size of the cerebral hemispheres with respect to total brain size of kiwi is rivaled only by a handful of parrots and songbirds, despite a lack of evidence of any advanced behavioral/cognitive abilities such as those reported for parrots and crows. In addition, the enlargement in brain and telencephalon size of the kiwi occurs despite the fact that this is a precocial bird. These findings form an exception to, and hence challenge, the current rules that govern changes in relative brain size in birds.}, }
@article {pmid18032852, year = {2007}, author = {Tabei, Y and Hasegawa, M and Iwasaki, N and Okazaki, T and Yoshida, Y and Yano, K}, title = {Surveillance of mosquitoes and crows for West Nile virus in the Tokyo metropolitan area.}, journal = {Japanese journal of infectious diseases}, volume = {60}, number = {6}, pages = {413-416}, pmid = {18032852}, issn = {1344-6304}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Crows/immunology/*virology ; Culicidae/*virology ; Encephalitis Virus, Japanese/immunology ; Female ; Hemagglutination Inhibition Tests ; Male ; Neutralization Tests ; Population Surveillance ; Tokyo ; West Nile Fever/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, }
@article {pmid18030112, year = {2007}, author = {Hui, JI and Lee, WW}, title = {Efficacy of fresh versus refrigerated botulinum toxin in the treatment of lateral periorbital rhytids.}, journal = {Ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {23}, number = {6}, pages = {433-438}, doi = {10.1097/IOP.0b013e31815793b7}, pmid = {18030112}, issn = {0740-9303}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Cryopreservation ; Double-Blind Method ; Drug Labeling ; *Drug Stability ; Drug Storage/*standards ; Eyelids/drug effects ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Oculomotor Muscles/drug effects ; Pharmaceutical Preparations/*administration &amp; dosage ; Prospective Studies ; Refrigeration ; Rhytidoplasty ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To determine if there is a difference in the efficacy of refrigerated (previously reconstituted) versus freshly reconstituted botulinum toxin (Botox Cosmetic, Allergan, Irvine, CA, U.S.A.) in the treatment of lateral periorbital rhytids.<br><br>METHODS: This is a randomized, double-blind, controlled, prospective study. Participants included individuals who were interested in the treatment of their lateral periorbital rhytids (crow's feet) and responded to signs posted in ophthalmology clinics at our institution. Patients were randomized to receive fresh botulinum toxin on 1 side and refrigerated (reconstituted 2 weeks prior) botulinum toxin on the other. Photographs were taken at the pretreatment visit and at the 2-week, 6-week, and 3-month post-treatment visits. Patients were asked to describe any improvement in the appearance of the rhytids at the 2-week visit, the appearance of the rhytids at the 6-week visit, the appearance of the rhytids at the 3-month visit, and finally, the duration of effect at the 3-month visit as well as whether any intervening loss of efficacy had been noted subjectively. The subjective information was recorded by 1 investigator (JIH) at each of the follow-up visits. At the conclusion of the study, the photographs were shown to an ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery fellow, who did not participate in the interventional portion of the study, to determine the response to treatment. This physician was masked to the study protocol and purpose and looked at each photograph without knowledge of treatment arm or timeline. The physician used the Wrinkle Assessment Scale developed by Lemperle et al. to grade the lateral periorbital rhytids on a 0 to 5 scale.<br><br>RESULTS: Forty-five patients were included in the final analysis. One patient felt there was a difference in the time of onset with the refrigerated toxin taking effect on day 3 versus day 4 for the fresh toxin. Unmasking revealed the following: 5 patients felt there was a greater effect on the freshly reconstituted side while 6 patients felt there was a greater effect on the refrigerated side. The independent physician evaluator determined there was a difference in effect between sides in 4 patients with the greater effect on the fresh side in 2 patients and the refrigerated side in 2 patients.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that 2 weeks of refrigeration does not appear to significantly affect the time of onset or efficacy of botulinum toxin in the treatment of lateral periorbital rhytids.}, }
@article {pmid18022623, year = {2008}, author = {Stöwe, M and Bugnyar, T and Schloegl, C and Heinrich, B and Kotrschal, K and Möstl, E}, title = {Corticosterone excretion patterns and affiliative behavior over development in ravens (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {53}, number = {1}, pages = {208-216}, pmid = {18022623}, issn = {0018-506X}, support = {Y 366/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Corticosterone/analysis/*metabolism ; Crows/growth &amp; development/*metabolism ; Feces/chemistry ; Female ; Grooming/physiology ; Male ; Radioimmunoassay/methods ; *Social Behavior ; *Social Isolation ; Stress, Psychological/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Averse effects of social stress may be buffered by the presence of social allies, which mainly has been demonstrated in mammals and recently also in birds. However, effects of socio-positive behavior prior to fledging in relation to corticosterone excretion in altricial birds have not been investigated yet. We here monitored corticosterone excretion patterns in three groups of hand raised juvenile ravens (n=5, 6 and 11) in the nest, post-fledging (May-July) and when ravens would be independent from their parents (September-November). We related these corticosterone excretion patterns to socio-positive behavior. Behavioral data were collected via focal sampling in each developmental period considered. We analyzed amounts of excreted immunoreactive corticosterone metabolites (CM) using enzyme immuno assays. We collected fecal samples in each developmental period considered and evaluated the most appropriate assay via an isolation stress experiment. Basal CM was significantly higher during the nestling period than post-fledging or when birds were independent. The time nestlings spent allopreening correlated negatively with mean CM. Post-fledging, individuals with higher CM levels sat close to (distance <50 cm) conspecifics more frequently and tended to preen them longer. When birds were independent and a stable rank hierarchy was established, dominant individuals were preened significantly longer than subordinates. These patterns observed in ravens parallel those described for primates, which could indicate that animal species living in a complex social environment may deal with social problems in a similar way that is not restricted to mammals or primates.}, }
@article {pmid18022189, year = {2008}, author = {Dahlgren, SS and Gouveia-Oliveira, R and Gjerde, B}, title = {Phylogenetic relationships between Sarcocystis species from reindeer and other Sarcocystidae deduced from ssu rRNA gene sequences.}, journal = {Veterinary parasitology}, volume = {151}, number = {1}, pages = {27-35}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetpar.2007.09.029}, pmid = {18022189}, issn = {0304-4017}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; Bayes Theorem ; Coccidiosis/parasitology/veterinary ; Likelihood Functions ; *Phylogeny ; RNA, Protozoan/*genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal/*genetics ; Reindeer/*parasitology ; Sarcocystidae/*classification/genetics ; Sarcocystis/*classification/genetics ; Sarcocystosis/parasitology/veterinary ; Sequence Alignment/veterinary ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Six Sarcocystis species from reindeer (S. grueneri, S. rangi, S. tarandivulpes, S. hardangeri, S. rangiferi and S. tarandi) have previously been genetically characterised. The aim of this study was to identify possible definitive hosts for S. hardangeri, S. rangiferi and S. tarandi by including the six species in phylogenetic analyses of the Sarcocystidae, and also to investigate the phylogenetic relationships between the species from reindeer and those from other hosts. The study also aimed at revealing whether the inclusion of six Sarcocystis species from the same intermediate host would have any effect on previously inferred phylogenetic relationships within the Sarcocystidae. The complete small subunit (ssu) rRNA gene sequences of all six Sarcocystis species from reindeer were used in the phylogenetic analyses along with ssu rRNA gene sequences of 85 other members of the Coccidea. Trees were constructed using Bayesian analysis and maximum likelihood estimations. All six Sarcocystis species from reindeer were placed together with other Sarcocystis species using an even-toed ungulate as their intermediate host. The three canine transmitted species, S. grueneri, S. rangi, S. tarandivulpes, formed a sister group to other Sarcocystis species with a canine definitive host. The position of S. hardangeri on the tree suggested that it uses another type of definitive host than the other Sarcocystis species in this clade. Considering the geographical distribution and infection intensity of S. hardangeri, corvid birds are perhaps its most likely definitive hosts. The phylogenetic position, geographical distribution, prevalence and morphological similarity to feline transmitted Sarcocystis species in closely related Cervidae suggest that the most likely definitive hosts of S. rangiferi and S. tarandi are felines, and in Norway notably the lynx. The overall phylogeny of the Sarcocystidae did not change by the inclusion of the six Sarcocystis species from reindeer. This study suggests that phylogentic analysis can be a useful tool in the search for possible definitive hosts for those Sarcocystis species for which they are unknown and difficult to find solely by other methods.}, }
@article {pmid17998276, year = {2008}, author = {Broser, P and Grinevich, V and Osten, P and Sakmann, B and Wallace, DJ}, title = {Critical period plasticity of axonal arbors of layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons in rat somatosensory cortex: layer-specific reduction of projections into deprived cortical columns.}, journal = {Cerebral cortex (New York, N.Y. : 1991)}, volume = {18}, number = {7}, pages = {1588-1603}, pmid = {17998276}, issn = {1460-2199}, mesh = {Aging/pathology/physiology ; Animals ; Axons/*physiology/*ultrastructure ; Female ; Male ; Nerve Net/physiology ; Neural Pathways/physiology ; Neuronal Plasticity/*physiology ; Pyramidal Cells/*cytology/*physiology ; Rats ; Rats, Wistar ; Somatosensory Cortex/*cytology/*physiology ; Vibrissae/*innervation/physiology ; }, abstract = {We examined the effect of whisker trimming during early postnatal development on the morphology of axonal arbors in rat somatosensory cortex. Axonal arbors from populations of layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons in the D2 column were labeled by lentivirus-mediated expression of green fluorescent protein. Axonal projection patterns were compared between untrimmed control animals and animals with all whiskers in A-, B-, and C-rows trimmed (D- and E-rows left intact) from postnatal days 7 to 15 (termed from here on DE-pairing). Control animals had approximately symmetrical horizontal projections toward C- and E-row columns in both supra- and infragranular layers. Following DE-pairing, the density of axons in supragranular layers projecting from the labeled neurons in the D2 column was higher in E- than in C-row columns. This asymmetry resulted primarily from a reduction in projection density toward the deprived C-row columns. In contrast, no change was observed in infragranular layers. The results indicate that DE-pairing during early postnatal development results in reduced axonal projection from nondeprived into deprived columns and that cortical neurons are capable of structural rearrangements at subsets of their axonal arbors.}, }
@article {pmid17990019, year = {2007}, author = {Morange, M}, title = {French tradition and the rise of Evo-devo.}, journal = {Theory in biosciences = Theorie in den Biowissenschaften}, volume = {126}, number = {4}, pages = {149-153}, pmid = {17990019}, issn = {1611-7530}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Developmental Biology/*history ; France ; Genetics/*history ; History, 20th Century ; }, abstract = {The limited value most French biologists attributed to Darwinism and Mendelism in the first half of the twentieth century, and their conviction that these theories were at best insufficient to explain evolution and development, probably created conditions propitious to the development of Evo-devo at the end of the century. The separation between embryology and evolution did not exist in French biology as it did in American genetics: explanations for these two phenomena were sought equally in the "organization" of the egg. The major contribution of French biologists to Evo-devo was clearly the invention of the notion of the regulatory gene by Jacob and Monod; not the operon model per se, but the introduction of a hierarchy between two different kinds of genes. The consequence, the rise of the developmental gene concept, was not immediate, and required the active role of other biologists such as Antonio Garcia-Bellido, Allan Wilson and Stephen Jay Gould. Various obstacles had to be overcome for this concept of developmental gene to be fully accepted.}, }
@article {pmid17988717, year = {2008}, author = {Smith, PG and Koch, I and Reimer, KJ}, title = {An investigation of arsenic compounds in fur and feathers using X-ray absorption spectroscopy speciation and imaging.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {390}, number = {1}, pages = {198-204}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2007.09.039}, pmid = {17988717}, issn = {0048-9697}, mesh = {Animals ; Arsenicals/*metabolism ; Birds/*metabolism ; Environmental Monitoring/methods ; Feathers/*chemistry ; Hair/*chemistry ; Oxidation-Reduction ; Rodentia/*metabolism ; Spectrum Analysis/methods ; Sulfur Compounds/metabolism ; X-Rays ; }, abstract = {The accumulation of arsenic in fur and feathers has been used as an indicator of environmental quality and animal health. However, difficulties remain in distinguishing between arsenic present from external sources versus ingestion. In addition, low extraction efficiencies limit the complete characterization of arsenic compounds in such tissues by conventional analytical techniques (e.g. high performance liquid chromatography inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, HPLC-ICP-MS). X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) provides an alternative method for determining the speciation of arsenic compounds directly. Inorganic arsenic is hypothesized to bind to thiol groups present in keratin-rich fur and feathers; however, arsenic-sulphur compounds are rarely reported in extracts of these tissues. Here we report that 5-58% of the total detected arsenic in rodent fur (vole, deer mouse, red squirrel) and bird feathers (gray jay, American tree sparrow, dark-eyed junco) from animals living in areas of elevated arsenic best resembled an arsenic(III)-sulphur compound as determined using XAS. In addition, fur and feathers with non-detectable levels of arsenic by XAS, were able to reduce pentavalent arsenic applied as either contaminated soil or an arsenate solution. XAS-imaging was used to localize dominant trivalent (AsIII) and pentavalent (AsV) arsenic compounds, and results were used to produce a "map" of arsenic in the sample. It is believed that the some of the reduced arsenic was absorbed, while external AsV compounds associated with soil/dust particles were easily distinguished on goose feathers. However, distinguishing whether internal arsenic arose from exogenous (from the environment) or endogenous (from the body) sources proved difficult with this technique.}, }
@article {pmid17980944, year = {2008}, author = {Hayashi, M and Kato, M and Igarashi, K and Kashima, H}, title = {Superior fluid intelligence in children with Asperger's disorder.}, journal = {Brain and cognition}, volume = {66}, number = {3}, pages = {306-310}, doi = {10.1016/j.bandc.2007.09.008}, pmid = {17980944}, issn = {0278-2626}, mesh = {Asperger Syndrome/*psychology ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; *Problem Solving ; Reference Values ; *Verbal Behavior ; }, abstract = {Asperger's disorder is one of autistic spectrum disorders; sharing clinical features with autism, but without developmental delay in language acquisition. There have been some studies of intellectual functioning in autism so far, but very few in Asperger's disorder. In the present study, we investigated abstract reasoning ability, whose form of intelligence has been labeled fluid intelligence in the theory of Cattell [Cattell, R. B. (1963). Theory of fluid and crystallized intelligence: A critical experiment. Journal of Educational Psychology, 54, 1-22.], in children with Asperger's disorder. A test of fluid intelligence, the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices Test, was administered to 17 children with Asperger's disorder and 17 age-, gender-, and FIQ-matched normal children. The results showed that children with Asperger's disorder outperformed on the test of fluid reasoning than typically developing children. We suggest that individuals with Asperger's disorder have higher fluid reasoning ability than normal individuals, highlighting superior fluid intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid17971191, year = {2007}, author = {Yu, LM and Hey, E and Doyle, LW and Farrell, B and Spark, P and Altman, DG and Duley, L and , }, title = {Evaluation of the Ages and Stages Questionnaires in identifying children with neurosensory disability in the Magpie Trial follow-up study.}, journal = {Acta paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)}, volume = {96}, number = {12}, pages = {1803-1808}, doi = {10.1111/j.1651-2227.2007.00517.x}, pmid = {17971191}, issn = {0803-5253}, mesh = {Blindness/*diagnosis ; Cerebral Palsy/*diagnosis ; Child, Preschool ; Clinical Trials as Topic ; Deafness/*diagnosis ; Developmental Disabilities/*diagnosis ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Infant ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; *Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {AIM: To evaluate performance of the Ages and Stages Questionnaires (full ASQ), and a shortened version (short ASQ), in detecting children with severe neurosensory disability in the Magpie Trial follow-up study.<br><br>METHODS: All children, born to women in the Magpie Trial and selected for follow-up, with a completed full 30 items and/or short 9-items ASQ were included in this analysis. Sensitivity and specificity, corrected for verification bias, were computed to assess detection ability.<br><br>RESULTS: Of the 2046 children who completed a full ASQ, 406 (19.8%) failed the assessment, 54 of whom had confirmed neurosensory disability. Adjusted sensitivity and specificity (95% confidence intervals) were 87.4% (62.9-96.6%), and 82.3% (80.5-83.9%), respectively. Two of the five domains in the full ASQ (Fine Motor and Problem Solving) contributed little to detection ability. Sensitivity and specificity for the short ASQ were 69.2% and 95.7%, respectively.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Sensitivity of the full ASQ for severe neurosensory disability is generally good, and does not appear to be much reduced by restricting questions to three out of the five domains. The short ASQ reported here reduced performance, although this might be improved by a different choice of questions or scoring system.}, }
@article {pmid17968643, year = {2008}, author = {Goin-Kochel, RP and Mazefsky, CA and Riley, BP}, title = {Level of functioning in autism spectrum disorders: phenotypic congruence among affected siblings.}, journal = {Journal of autism and developmental disorders}, volume = {38}, number = {6}, pages = {1019-1027}, pmid = {17968643}, issn = {0162-3257}, support = {MH64547/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; T32 MH020030/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; T32MH-20030/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; T32 NS043124/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH064547/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; T32NS-43124/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Autistic Disorder/diagnosis/*genetics/psychology ; Child ; Diseases in Twins/diagnosis/*genetics/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Individuality ; Intelligence/genetics ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Phenotype ; Socialization ; Twins, Dizygotic/genetics/psychology ; Twins, Monozygotic/genetics/psychology ; }, abstract = {Little evidence supports that siblings with autism exhibit the same behaviors; however, some findings suggest that level of functioning shows familial aggregation. We tested this notion among multiplex families participating with the Autism Genetic Resource Exchange (AGRE) Consortium, using scores on the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-Third Edition (N = 204 families), the Ravens Colored Progressive Matrices (N = 226 families), and the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (N = 348 families). Intraclass Correlation Coefficients revealed that siblings with autism/autism spectrum disorders (ASD) were more similar on measures of verbal and nonverbal IQ and adaptive functioning than were unrelated children with autism/ASD. Preliminary twin correlations indicated strong genetic effects for some skill domains and the influence of shared environmental factors for others.}, }
@article {pmid17963138, year = {2007}, author = {Clementoni, MT and Gilardino, P and Muti, GF and Beretta, D and Schianchi, R}, title = {Non-sequential fractional ultrapulsed CO2 resurfacing of photoaged facial skin: preliminary clinical report.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology}, volume = {9}, number = {4}, pages = {218-225}, doi = {10.1080/14764170701632901}, pmid = {17963138}, issn = {1476-4172}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Carbon Dioxide/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Dermatologic Surgical Procedures ; Dose Fractionation, Radiation ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Lasers, Solid-State/*adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Pigmentation Disorders/diagnosis/*therapy ; Rejuvenation ; Skin Aging/pathology/*radiation effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {This study evaluates results, adverse side effects and downtime of the protocol 'ActiveFX' for photodamaged facial skin. A non-sequential fractional ultrapulsed CO2 laser with specific settings is used in addition to a new computer pattern generator (CPG). From September 2006 to March 2007, 55 patients underwent this new 'soft' single-session, single-pass and full-face ablative fractional treatment. The patients were evaluated at baseline and 1 and 3 months after the treatment using a five-point scale. Seven aspects of photodamaged skin were recorded: global score, fine lines, mottled pigmentation, sallow complexion, tactile roughness, coarse wrinkles and telangiectasias. The results were compared with a non-parametric statistical test, the Wilcoxon's exact test. Eight patients received a double-pass treatment on the crow's feet regions and the improvement of the coarse wrinkles was analyzed with a quartile grading scale. Significant differences (p<0.05) between baseline and 1 and 3 months post-treatment were observed for all features except telangiectasias. Coarse wrinkles presented a good improvement only in the regions submitted to a double-pass. Minimal and isolated adverse side effects were noted and the downtime was very low. Non-sequential fractional ultrapulsed CO2 light treatment ('ActiveFX') can be considered an excellent alternative for photodamaged facial skin.}, }
@article {pmid17962090, year = {2008}, author = {Dancey, A and Mein, E and Khan, M and Rayatt, S and Papini, R}, title = {Is crow's feet sign a reliable indicator of corneal injury in facial burns?.}, journal = {Journal of plastic, reconstructive &amp; aesthetic surgery : JPRAS}, volume = {61}, number = {11}, pages = {1325-1327}, doi = {10.1016/j.bjps.2007.09.008}, pmid = {17962090}, issn = {1878-0539}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Corneal Injuries ; Eye Burns/*diagnosis/etiology/pathology ; Face/pathology ; Facial Injuries/etiology/pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Prospective Studies ; Skin/*pathology ; Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {Facial burns occur commonly, although they rarely result in serious ophthalmological injuries. Despite this, failure to identify and manage minor eye injuries can have serious consequences. When the blink reflex is forcibly suppressed, the cornea is left exposed, resulting in serious injury. One indicator of possible corneal injury is the absence of 'Crow's feet sign'. Crow's feet sign describes the sparing of the skin creases or crow's feet around the eye with forced eyelid closure. The implication is that the patient was conscious at the time of injury and therefore able to protect the eye from ocular injury. We present a consecutive series of 145 people with facial burns attending the burns unit at Selly Oak Hospital, Birmingham over a 2-year period. Demographics, cause, presence of inhalational injury and outcome were examined for all patients. Eleven patients were diagnosed with ocular injury, and none of these patients had crow's feet sign. To date, we have found 100% correlation between the presence of crow's feet sign and the absence of ocular injury. We would recommend that clinicians are alert to the absence of this sign as a marker of possible eye injury.}, }
@article {pmid17958312, year = {2007}, author = {Zinchenko, RA and El'chinova, GI and Petrov, NV and Osipova, EV and Malyshev, PIu and Poliakov, AV and Ginter, EK}, title = {[Genetic structure of the Udmurt population].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {43}, number = {8}, pages = {1107-1119}, pmid = {17958312}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Emigration and Immigration ; Female ; Genetic Diseases, Inborn/genetics ; Genetic Load ; Humans ; Male ; *Pedigree ; Population/*genetics ; *Rural Population ; Russia/ethnology ; *Urban Population ; }, abstract = {Integrated study of the genetic structure of the Udmurt population with respect to different genetic systems has been performed. Data on the genes of genetic diseases, abiotic parameters analyzed by population statistic methods, and DNA polymorphism are summarized. The populations of six raions (districts) of Udmurt Republic (the Mozhga, Malaya Purga, Sharkan, Debesy, Igra, and Glazov raions) have been studied. The total population studied was 267,655 people (an urban population of 150,119 people and a rural population of 117,536 people), including 155,346 Udmurts. The population structure has been studied in six districts on the basis of the vital statistics, Crow's indices, Malecot's isolation by distance parameters, ethnically assortative marriage parameters, endogamy indices, inbreeding-endogamy (ie) indices, and frequencies of the genotype and allele frequencies of four DNA markers (17 alleles). The prevalences of hereditary diseases have been calculated for different population groups: urban and rural populations, Udmurts and other ethnic groups. These groups, especially the urban and rural populations, substantially differed from one another in the prevalences of autosomal dominant (AR) and autosomal recessive (AR) diseases. The correlation between the prevalence of AD and AR diseases and the ie index is positive and significant. The spectrum of hereditary diseases detected in six districts of Udmurtia comprises 149 diseases (80, 57, and 12 AD, AR, and X-linked diseases, respectively). Accumulation of individual diseases in districts of Udmurtia and accumulation of diseases in Udmurtia as compared to regions studied earlier has been found. Cluster analysis of the frequencies of genes of AD and AR diseases and DNA markers has determined the gene geographic position of Udmurts.}, }
@article {pmid17956752, year = {2007}, author = {Clayton, N}, title = {Animal cognition: crows spontaneously solve a metatool task.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {17}, number = {20}, pages = {R894-5}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2007.08.028}, pmid = {17956752}, issn = {0960-9822}, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Models, Psychological ; Problem Solving/physiology ; Tool Use Behavior/physiology ; }, abstract = {A recent study found that tool-manufacturing New Caledonian crows spontaneously solved a metatool task in which the birds used a tool to obtain a second, longer tool that could then be used to obtain food that was otherwise out of reach.}, }
@article {pmid17949980, year = {2007}, author = {Bugnyar, T and Schwab, C and Schloegl, C and Kotrschal, K and Heinrich, B}, title = {Ravens judge competitors through experience with play caching.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {17}, number = {20}, pages = {1804-1808}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2007.09.048}, pmid = {17949980}, issn = {0960-9822}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Food ; Humans ; Male ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Complex social behavior builds on the mutual judgment of individuals as cooperation partners and competitors [1]. Play can be used for assessing the others' dispositions in humans and nonhuman mammals [2], whereas little is known about birds. Recently, food-caching corvids have been found to rival primates in their ability to judge the behaviors and intentions of others in competition for hidden food [3]. Here, we show that ravens Corvus corax quickly learn to assess the competitive strategies of unfamiliar individuals through interactions with them over caches with inedible items and subsequently apply this knowledge when caching food. We confronted birds with two human experimenters who acted differently when birds cached plastic items: the pilferer stole the cached objects, whereas the onlooker did not. Birds responded to the actions of both experimenters with changing the location of their next object caches, either away from or toward the humans, as if they were testing their pilfering dispositions. In contrast, ravens instantly modified their caching behavior with food, preventing only the competitive human from finding the caches. Playful object caching in a social setting could thus aid ravens in evaluating others' pilfering skills.}, }
@article {pmid17948795, year = {2007}, author = {Leone, L and Ferri, D and Manfredi, C and Persson, P and Shchukarev, A and Sjöberg, S and Loring, J}, title = {Modeling the acid-base properties of bacterial surfaces: A combined spectroscopic and potentiometric study of the gram-positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis.}, journal = {Environmental science &amp; technology}, volume = {41}, number = {18}, pages = {6465-6471}, doi = {10.1021/es070996e}, pmid = {17948795}, issn = {0013-936X}, mesh = {Acids/*chemistry ; Alkalies/*chemistry ; Bacillus subtilis/*chemistry/metabolism ; Cell Membrane/chemistry ; Freeze Drying ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Models, Biological ; Spectrometry, X-Ray Emission ; Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared ; }, abstract = {In this study, macroscopic and spectroscopic data were combined to develop a surface complexation model that describes the acid-base properties of Bacillus subtilis. The bacteria were freeze-dried and then resuspended in 0.1 M NaCl ionic medium. Macroscopic measurements included potentiometric acid-base titrations and electrophoretic mobility measurements. In addition, ATR-FTIR spectra of wet pastes from suspensions of Bacillus subtilis at different pH values were collected. The least-squares program MAGPIE was used to generate a surface complexation model that takes into account the presence of three acid-base sites on the surface: tripple bond COOH, tripple bond NH+, and tripple bond PO-, which were identified previously by XPS measurements. Both potentiometric titration data and ATR-FTIR spectra were used quantitatively, and electrostatic effects at the charged bacterial surface were accounted for using the constant capacitance model. The model was calculated using two different approaches: in the first one XPS data were used to constrain the ratio of the total concentrations of all three surface sites. The capacitance of the double layer, the total buffer capacity, and the deprotonation constants of the tripple bond NH+, tripple bond POH, and tripple bond COOH species were determined in the fit. A second approach is presented in which the ratio determined by XPS of the total concentrations of tripple bond NH+ to tripple bond PO- sites is relaxed. The total concentration of tripple bond PO- sites was determined in the fit, while the deprotonation constant for tripple bond POH was manually varied until the minimization led to a model which predicted an isoelectric point that resulted in consistency with electrophoretic mobility data. The model explains well the buffering capacity of Bacillus subtilis suspensions in a wide pH range (between pH=3 and pH=9) which is of considerable environmental interest. In particular, a similar quantitative use of the IR data opens up possibilities to model other bacterial surfaces at the laboratory scale and help estimate the buffering capacity of carboxylate-containing compounds in natural samples.}, }
@article {pmid17947837, year = {2007}, author = {Bubbico, L and Di Castelbianco, FB and Tangucci, M and Salvinelli, F}, title = {Early hearing detection and intervention in children with prelingual deafness, effects on language development.}, journal = {Minerva pediatrica}, volume = {59}, number = {4}, pages = {307-313}, pmid = {17947837}, issn = {0026-4946}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology ; Deafness/*complications/*diagnosis ; Female ; *Hearing Tests ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Language Development Disorders/*etiology ; Male ; }, abstract = {AIM: The purpose of this study was to assess, the cognitive and receptive language abilities in children with prelingual hearing impairment, in relation to the age of enrollment in the intervention program and examine the related variables.<br><br>METHODS: Seventy children with congenital prelingual deafness were divided into 2 groups based on their age at the start of the intervention program: 17 children enrolled between 0-12 months of age, 53 children enrolled after the age of 12 months. The age of intervention is defined as the identification and confirmation of hearing loss, adaptation of hearing aids, and enrollment in the program of special education at the Orthophonological Institute of Rome. Assessments were carried out at 5 years of age. The receptive language abilities were measured using the Peabody picture vocabulary test (PPVT), while the cognitive abilities used the Raven standard progressive matrices test. The material was administered by staff skilled in assessing children with hearing loss. The assessment of language score tests (PPVT and Raven progressive matrix test) of samples of children with hearing loss was compared with normal standardized scores of hearing peers at 5 years of age. Mean group differences were compared using t-tests. The results were considered statistically significant for a P-value less than or equal to 0.05.<br><br>RESULTS: A progressive decline in the mean PPVT score with increasing ages of enrollment was present. The mean receptive language score of the children enrolled within the first 12 months was significantly better (P<0.001) compared to those over 13 months. The nonverbal IQ, determined by Raven's standard progressive matrices, showed no statistically significant differences in IQ scores (P = 0.083) between children with early and late age of enrollment. Our data revealed that language abilities are significantly affected by the degree of hearing loss (P<0.001 Children with very severe hearing loss, find it more difficult to achieve adequate language abilities than children with moderate and severe hearing.<br><br>CONCLUSION: According to previous studies on the matter, our data suggest that identification of hearing loss at early age associated with early hearing aid fitting, and enrollment in early intervention within the first 12 months of age, may help to obtain good results in the receptive language skills performance. The early identification of prelingual hearing loss at birth through the neonatal screening must therefore be, , considered the primary step for accessing a quality intervention.}, }
@article {pmid17940990, year = {2007}, author = {Lizis-Kolus, K and Kowalska, A and Nowakowska-Domagała, M}, title = {[The POEMS syndrome with coexisting endocrinopathy--case report].}, journal = {Endokrynologia Polska}, volume = {58}, number = {3}, pages = {238-243}, pmid = {17940990}, issn = {0423-104X}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; Hypogonadism/*complications ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications/*diagnosis ; }, abstract = {We present a case of a woman with unique multisystem disorder--POEMS syndrome and endocrine abnormalities coexisting with it. The POEMS acronym comprises the dominant features: polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal protein (M protein), skin changes. Association between plasma cell dyscrasia and polyneuropathy, was described in 1956 year by Crow. The main features were coined in the acronym POEMS by Bardwick in 1980 year. The polysymptomatic clinical picture, progressive course and no-concurrent manifestations of main features impede the diagnosis. In this case, the first symptoms were the sensomotor polyneuropathy, peripheral oedema, osteosclerotic bone lesions, skin changes, organomegaly. They preceded diagnosis by 3 years. The first endocrinopathy was hypothyroidism. Definite diagnosis was delayed because we couldn't detect the presence of M protein. Immunoelectrophoresis didn't detect it, but analysis by immunofixation detected M protein in serum and urine. Within 3 years of the first symptoms, she developed hypogonadism hypergonadotropic. At first, the monotherapy with corticosteroids was used, then--melfalan with prednisone. Due to the progression of the disease, a thalidomide was used in therapy (it is anti-VEGF agent). One of the side effects of the treatment of thalidomide is the progression of polyneuropathy, which was observed in this patient. After finishing this therapy she received chemotherapy. This case report imposes the necessity of constants observation of patients with POEMS syndrome because there is a possibility of their developing other disorders. In the event of coexistence polyneuropathy and plasma cell dyscrasia, this disease should be taken into consideration.}, }
@article {pmid17940816, year = {2008}, author = {Holzhaider, JC and Hunt, GR and Campbell, VM and Gray, RD}, title = {Do wild New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides) attend to the functional properties of their tools?.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, pages = {243-254}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-007-0108-1}, pmid = {17940816}, issn = {1435-9448}, mesh = {Animals ; Association Learning/*physiology ; *Concept Formation ; Crows/*physiology ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian crows are the most proficient non-hominin tool manufacturers but the cognition behind their remarkable skills remains largely unknown. Here we investigate if they attend to the functional properties of the tools that they routinely use in the wild. Pandanus tools have natural barbs along one edge that enable them to function as hooking implements when the barbs face backwards from the working tip. In experiment 1 we presented eight crows with either a non-functional ('upside-down') or a functional pandanus tool in a baited hole. Four of the crows never flipped the tools. The behaviour of the four flipping birds suggested that they had a strategy of flipping a tool when it was not working. Observations of two of the eight crows picking up pandanus tools at feeding tables in the wild supported the lack of attention to barb direction. In experiment 2 we gave six of the eight crows a choice of either a barbed or a barbless pandanus tool. Five of the crows chose tools at random, which further supported the findings in experiment 1 that the crows paid little or no attention to the barbs. In contrast, a third experiment found that seven out of eight crows flipped non-functional stick tools significantly more than functional ones. Our findings indicate that the crows do not consistently attend to the presence or orientation of barbs on pandanus tools. Successful pandanus tool use in the wild seems to rely on behavioural strategies formed through associative learning, including procedural knowledge about the sequence of operations required to make a successful pandanus tool.}, }
@article {pmid17939981, year = {2008}, author = {Pravosudov, VV}, title = {Mountain chickadees discriminate between potential cache pilferers and non-pilferers.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {275}, number = {1630}, pages = {55-61}, pmid = {17939981}, issn = {0962-8452}, support = {R01 MH076797/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R21 MH079892/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; MH079892/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; MH076797/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Discrimination Learning/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; *Food ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Evolution of complex cognition in animals has been linked to complex social behaviour. One of the costs of sociality is increased competition for food which may be reduced by food caching, but cache theft may undermine the benefits of caching. In birds, sophisticated food-caching-related cognition has been demonstrated only for corvids and attributed to their highly social behaviour. Many non-corvid food-caching species exhibit similar complex social behaviour and here I provide experimental evidence that mountain chickadees (Poecile gambeli) adjust their caching strategies depending on social context. Chickadees were allowed to cache seeds in the presence of potential cache pilferer, either conspecific or heterospecific (red-breasted nuthatch, Sitta canadensis) and a non-pilferer (dark-eyed junco, Junco hyemalis) positioned at the opposite sides of the experimental arena. Available caching sites were either exposed to these observers or hidden from their view while the cacher could always see both observers. Chickadees chose caching sites that were hidden from direct view of the potential pilferers while caching in direct view of the non-pilferers. When no pilferers were present, chickadees made equal use of all available caching substrates and there were no differences in the amount of caching in the presence or absence of pilferers. These results suggest that (i) chickadees may be able to recognize potential cache thieves, both conspecific and heterospecific, and adjust their caching strategies to minimize potential cache pilferage and (ii) chickadees appear to discriminate between caching sites that can or cannot be seen by observers, which may allow them to control visual information available to potential pilferers.}, }
@article {pmid17939505, year = {2007}, author = {Dennett, JA and Bala, A and Wuithiranyagool, T and Randle, Y and Sargent, CB and Guzman, H and Siirin, M and Hassan, HK and Reyna-Nava, M and Unnasch, TR and Tesh, RB and Parsons, RE and Bueno, R}, title = {Associations between two mosquito populations and West Nile virus in Harris County, Texas, 2003-06.}, journal = {Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association}, volume = {23}, number = {3}, pages = {264-275}, pmid = {17939505}, issn = {8756-971X}, support = {N01AI25489/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI049724-08/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01-AI25489/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 CI000226/CI/NCPDCID CDC HHS/United States ; R01 AI049724/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aedes/*virology ; Animals ; Culex/*virology ; Dogs ; Female ; Humans ; Rain ; Rats ; Seasons ; Songbirds/*virology ; Temperature ; Texas/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*transmission ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Associations between Culex quinquefasciatus, Aedes albopictus and West Nile virus (WNV) activity, temperature, and rainfall in Harris County, Texas 2003-06 are discussed. Human cases were highly correlated to Cx. quinquefasciatus (r = 0.87) and Ae. albopictus (r = 0.78) pools, blue jays (r = 0.83), and Ae. albopictus collected (r = 0.71), but not Cx. quinquefasciatus collected (r = 0.45). Human cases were associated with temperature (r = 0.71), not rainfall (r = 0.29), whereas temperature correlated with Ae. albopictus and Cx. quinquefasciatus collections (r = 0.88 and 0.70, respectively) and Cx. quinqueftsciatus pools (r = 0.75), but not Ae. albopictus pools (r = 0.55). Both species (collections and pools) and blue jays were weakly correlated (r 5 0.41) with rainfall, but blue jays were better correlated with Cx. quinquefasciatus pools (r = 0.87), compared with Ae. albopictus pools (r = 0.67), Ae. albopictus collections (r = 0.69), and Cx. quinquefasciatus collections (r = 0.46). Peak minimum infection rate for Cx. quinquefasciatus (4.55), and Ae. albopictus (4.41) was in August with highest human cases (17.87), blue jays (55.58), and temperature (29.01 degrees C). Between both species, blood meal analysis indicated 68.18% of Cx. quinquefasciatus mammalian hosts were dog, while 22.72% were human, whereas Ae. albopictus had higher human (44.44%) but fewer dog hosts (22.22%). Ten bird species were identified as hosts for Cx. quinquefasciatus, with northern cardinal and blue jay representing 26.66% and 20.00%, respectively. No bird feeding activity was observed in Ae. albopictus. The earliest and latest human blood meal occurred in May (Ae. albopictus) and November (Cx. quinquefasciatus); 66.66% of human host identifications between both species occurred in October-November, after the seasonal human case peak. Based upon our data, WNV activity in both mosquito species warrants further investigation of their individual roles in WNV ecology within this region.}, }
@article {pmid17935001, year = {2008}, author = {Williams, BR and Donovick, PJ}, title = {Questioning the rule of thumb: can verbal tasks be administered during the CVLT-II delay interval?.}, journal = {The Clinical neuropsychologist}, volume = {22}, number = {5}, pages = {807-812}, doi = {10.1080/13854040701562833}, pmid = {17935001}, issn = {1385-4046}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Analysis of Variance ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory/*physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Time Factors ; Verbal Learning/*physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; Vocabulary ; Wechsler Scales/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Young Adult ; }, abstract = {In the manual for the California Verbal Learning Test - II (CVLT-II), the authors suggest that nonverbal, rather than verbal, tasks be administered during the delay interval between administrations of the Short- and Long-Delay Recall trials of this test. They contend that this method minimizes the retroactive interference produced by intervening tasks. The purpose of the current study was to compare the extent to which verbal and nonverbal intervening tasks produce retroactive interference on CVLT-II List A recall following the long-delay. Participants in the present study were 120 undergraduate students. All participants completed the CVLT-II, and were randomly assigned to a group in which they were administered either a verbal (WAIS-III Vocabulary or Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test - IIIB) or nonverbal (Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices or WAIS-III Block Design) intervening task during the long-delay interval of the CVLT-II. Statistical analyses revealed that regardless of the type of intervening task given, participants in all groups recalled the same number of words and produced a similar number of intrusions during the CVLT-II recall trials. This indicates that not all verbal tasks produce retroactive effects beyond those produced by nonverbal tasks.}, }
@article {pmid17924785, year = {2007}, author = {de Kort, SR and Correia, SP and Alexis, DM and Dickinson, A and Clayton, NS}, title = {The control of food-caching behavior by Western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica).}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Animal behavior processes}, volume = {33}, number = {4}, pages = {361-370}, doi = {10.1037/0097-7403.33.4.361}, pmid = {17924785}, issn = {0097-7403}, support = {BB/D000335/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Appetitive Behavior ; Association Learning ; *Birds ; Choice Behavior ; Extinction, Psychological ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; Mental Recall ; Motivation ; *Orientation ; *Predatory Behavior ; Reward ; }, abstract = {Western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) did not show extinction when caching behavior was never rewarded and they had no choice of where to cache the food. However, when the jays had the choice of caching items in 2 different locations or during 2 successive episodes, and only 1 of each was always rewarded at recovery, they rapidly learned to cache in the rewarded location or episode. When the jays had learned during training trials that their caches were always moved to 1 of 2 locations they did not cache in, then on the test trial they cached in the location that had been previously rewarded. To test whether these jays avoided the location in which their caches had been pilfered or chose the rewarded location, the procedure was repeated to include a 3rd location that was never rewarded. The jays avoided the pilfered location but cached equally in the rewarded and nonrewarded locations.}, }
@article {pmid17921458, year = {2008}, author = {Wallace, DJ and Sakmann, B}, title = {Plasticity of representational maps in somatosensory cortex observed by in vivo voltage-sensitive dye imaging.}, journal = {Cerebral cortex (New York, N.Y. : 1991)}, volume = {18}, number = {6}, pages = {1361-1373}, doi = {10.1093/cercor/bhm168}, pmid = {17921458}, issn = {1460-2199}, mesh = {Action Potentials/physiology ; Animals ; Brain Mapping/*methods ; *Coloring Agents/analysis ; Diagnostic Imaging/methods ; Evoked Potentials, Somatosensory/physiology ; Neuronal Plasticity/*physiology ; Rats ; Sensory Deprivation/physiology ; Somatosensory Cortex/*physiology ; }, abstract = {We investigated the effect of selective whisker trimming on the development of the cortical representation of a whisker deflection in layer 2/3 of rat somatosensory cortex using in vivo voltage-sensitive dye (vsd) imaging. Responses to deflection of D-row whiskers were recorded after trimming of A-row, B-row, and C-row whiskers, referred to as DE pairing, during postnatal development. Animals DE paired from postnatal day (p) 7 to p17 had a significant bias in the spread of the vsd signal, favoring spread toward the concomitantly nondeprived E-row columns. This resulted primarily from a strong decrease in signal spreading into the deprived C-row columns. In contrast, signal spread in control littermates was approximately symmetrical. DE pairing failed to elicit significant changes when begun after p14, thus defining a critical period for this phenomenon. The results suggest that sensory deprivation in this model results in lower connectivity being established between nondeprived columns and adjacent deprived ones.}, }
@article {pmid17920300, year = {2007}, author = {Haring, E and Gamauf, A and Kryukov, A}, title = {Phylogeographic patterns in widespread corvid birds.}, journal = {Molecular phylogenetics and evolution}, volume = {45}, number = {3}, pages = {840-862}, doi = {10.1016/j.ympev.2007.06.016}, pmid = {17920300}, issn = {1055-7903}, mesh = {Animals ; Asia ; Birds/classification/*genetics ; Ecology ; Europe ; *Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {Intraspecific genetic diversity and phylogeography of Corvus corone was investigated using the mitochondrial (mt) control region as a molecular marker. A split into two distinct mt lineages was observed. One represents individuals from a wide geographic range spanning from England to the Russian Far East (Kamchatka), while the other one was found in the Primorye and Khabarovsk regions (southern parts of Russian Far East) as well as Japan. For comparison, we investigated several widespread Palearctic corvid taxa with respect to their phylogeographic patterns. A deep split into two lineages was revealed in five cases: Besides C. corone, within Corvus frugilegus, Pica pica, and between the species pairs Corvus monedula-Corvus dauuricus and Cyanopica cyanus-Cyanopica cooki. Although these taxa display a variety of distribution patterns, from disjunct, para/allopatric to continuous, the genetic pattern and level of divergence between clades is very similar. This implies that the differentiation started in about the same time range. In contrast, no differentiation into highly divergent lineages was detected in Corvus corax, Perisoreus infaustus, and Nucifraga caryocatactes. We try to explain the two phylogeographic patterns in corvid birds with ecological factors accompanying the changing climatic conditions during the Pleistocene. The deep genetic splits within several widely distributed Palearctic corvids are discussed with respect to taxonomic questions.}, }
@article {pmid17916693, year = {2007}, author = {Rutz, C and Bluff, LA and Weir, AA and Kacelnik, A}, title = {Video cameras on wild birds.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {318}, number = {5851}, pages = {765}, doi = {10.1126/science.1146788}, pmid = {17916693}, issn = {1095-9203}, support = {BB/C517392/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; *Behavior, Animal ; Crows/*physiology ; Ecology ; Feeding Behavior ; Male ; Miniaturization ; Tool Use Behavior ; *Videotape Recording ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides) are renowned for using tools for extractive foraging, but the ecological context of this unusual behavior is largely unknown. We developed miniaturized, animal-borne video cameras to record the undisturbed behavior and foraging ecology of wild, free-ranging crows. Our video recordings enabled an estimate of the species' natural foraging efficiency and revealed that tool use, and choice of tool materials, are more diverse than previously thought. Video tracking has potential for studying the behavior and ecology of many other bird species that are shy or live in inaccessible habitats.}, }
@article {pmid17916127, year = {2007}, author = {Literák, I and Vanko, R and Dolejská, M and Cízek, A and Karpísková, R}, title = {Antibiotic resistant Escherichia coli and Salmonella in Russian rooks (Corvus frugilegus) wintering in the Czech Republic.}, journal = {Letters in applied microbiology}, volume = {45}, number = {6}, pages = {616-621}, doi = {10.1111/j.1472-765X.2007.02236.x}, pmid = {17916127}, issn = {0266-8254}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/*pharmacology ; Bird Diseases/microbiology ; Crows/*microbiology ; Czech Republic ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial/*genetics/physiology ; Escherichia coli/*drug effects/*isolation &amp; purification ; Escherichia coli Infections/microbiology ; Feces/microbiology ; Genes, Bacterial ; Integrons ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Salmonella Infections, Animal/microbiology ; Salmonella enteritidis/*drug effects/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {AIMS: To characterize antibiotic resistant Escherichia coli and Salmonella isolates in rooks wintering in the Czech Republic.<br><br>METHODS AND RESULTS: Three hundred and sixty-three faeces samples from rooks were examined for antibiotic resistant Escherichia coli and Salmonella. Altogether 13.7%E. coli isolates were resistant to antimicrobial agents tested. The dominant type of resistance was to tetracycline. Resistant E. coli isolates were examined for antibiotic resistance genes and class 1 integrons. Five of 29 antibiotic resistant isolates possessed the int1 gene. Nine Salmonella isolates (2.5%) were found in rook faeces. All the isolates belonged to serotype Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis phage type PT8 and PT23.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The study suggests that rooks can be infected by antibiotic resistant E. coli and Salmonella isolates, probably reflecting the presence of such isolates in their sources of food and/or water in the environment.<br><br>Rooks can serve as reservoirs and vectors of antibiotic resistant E. coli and Salmonella isolates and potentially transmit these isolates over long distances.}, }
@article {pmid17913134, year = {2007}, author = {Kristan, WB and Boarman, WI}, title = {Effects of anthropogenic developments on common raven nesting biology in the West Mojave Desert.}, journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America}, volume = {17}, number = {6}, pages = {1703-1713}, doi = {10.1890/06-1114.1}, pmid = {17913134}, issn = {1051-0761}, mesh = {Animals ; California ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; Crows/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; *Desert Climate ; *Ecosystem ; Geography ; Humans ; Nesting Behavior/*physiology ; Population Dynamics ; }, abstract = {Subsidized predators may affect prey abundance, distribution, and demography. Common Ravens (Corvus corax) are anthropogenically subsidized throughout their range and, in the Mojave Desert, have increased in number dramatically over the last 3-4 decades. Human-provided food resources are thought to be important drivers of raven population growth, but human developments add other features as well, such as nesting platforms. From 1996 to 2000, we examined the nesting ecology of ravens in the Mojave Desert, relative to anthropogenic developrhent. Ravens nested disproportionately near point sources of food and water subsidies (such as towns, landfills, and ponds) but not near roads (sources of road-killed carrion), even though both sources of subsidy enhanced fledging success. Initiation of breeding activity was more likely when a nest from the previous year was present at the start of a breeding season but was not affected by access to food. The relative effect of environmental modifications on fledging success varied from year to year, but the effect of access to human-provided resources was comparatively consistent, suggesting that humans provide consistently high-quality breeding habitat for ravens. Anthropogenic land cover types in the desert are expected to promote raven population growth and to allow ravens to occupy parts of the desert that otherwise would not support them. Predatory impacts of ravens in the Mojave Desert can therefore be considered indirect effects of anthropogenic development.}, }
@article {pmid17908216, year = {2008}, author = {Fleischer, RC and Boarman, WI and Gonzalez, EG and Godinez, A and Omland, KE and Young, S and Helgen, L and Syed, G and McIntosh, CE}, title = {As the raven flies: using genetic data to infer the history of invasive common raven (Corvus corax) populations in the Mojave Desert.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {17}, number = {1}, pages = {464-474}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2007.03532.x}, pmid = {17908216}, issn = {0962-1083}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; California ; Crows/*genetics/physiology ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; *Demography ; Desert Climate ; Gene Flow ; *Genetics, Population ; Haplotypes/genetics ; Microsatellite Repeats/genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Nevada ; Population Dynamics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Common raven (Corvus corax) populations in Mojave Desert regions of southern California and Nevada have increased dramatically over the past five decades. This growth has been attributed to increased human development in the region, as ravens have a commensal relationship with humans and feed extensively at landfills and on road-killed wildlife. Ravens, as a partially subsidized predator, also represent a problem for native desert wildlife, in particular threatened desert tortoises (Gopherus agassizii). However, it is unclear whether the more than 15-fold population increase is due to in situ population growth or to immigration from adjacent regions where ravens have been historically common. Ravens were sampled for genetic analysis at several local sites within five major areas: the West Mojave Desert (California), East Mojave Desert (southern Nevada), southern coastal California, northern coastal California (Bay Area), and northern Nevada (Great Basin). Analyses of mtDNA control region sequences reveal an increased frequency of raven 'Holarctic clade' haplotypes from south to north inland, with 'California clade' haplotypes nearly fixed in the California populations. There was significant structuring among regions for mtDNA, with high F(ST) values among sampling regions, especially between the Nevada and California samples. Analyses of eight microsatellite loci reveal a mostly similar pattern of regional population structure, with considerably smaller, but mostly significant, values. The greater mtDNA divergences may be due to lower female dispersal relative to males, lower N(e), or effects of high mutation rates on maximal values of F(ST). Analyses indicate recent population growth in the West Mojave Desert and a bottleneck in the northern California populations. While we cannot rule out in situ population growth as a factor, patterns of movement inferred from our data suggest that the increase in raven populations in the West Mojave Desert resulted from movements from southern California and the Central Valley. Ravens in the East Mojave Desert are more similar to ones from northern Nevada, indicating movement between those regions. If this interpretation of high gene flow into the Mojave Desert is correct, then efforts to manage raven numbers by local control may not be optimally effective.}, }
@article {pmid17900045, year = {2007}, author = {Lombard, J}, title = {Jay Lombard, DO: exploring the brain-mind-body connection. Interview by Frank Lampe and Suzanne Snyder.}, journal = {Alternative therapies in health and medicine}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {66-76}, pmid = {17900045}, issn = {1078-6791}, mesh = {*Attitude of Health Personnel ; Empathy ; *Evidence-Based Medicine ; Health Promotion/methods ; *Holistic Health ; Humans ; Male ; *Mind-Body Relations, Metaphysical ; *Practice Patterns, Physicians' ; }, }
@article {pmid17892392, year = {2007}, author = {Shafto, MA and Burke, DM and Stamatakis, EA and Tam, PP and Tyler, LK}, title = {On the tip-of-the-tongue: neural correlates of increased word-finding failures in normal aging.}, journal = {Journal of cognitive neuroscience}, volume = {19}, number = {12}, pages = {2060-2070}, pmid = {17892392}, issn = {0898-929X}, support = {R37 AG008835-12/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R37 AG008835-16S1/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R37 AG008835-17/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R37 AG008835-16/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; G19/27/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; AG 08835/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R37 AG008835/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*psychology ; *Brain Mapping ; Female ; Humans ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; *Language ; Language Disorders/*pathology/psychology ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods ; Male ; *Mental Recall ; Middle Aged ; Reading ; }, abstract = {Tip-of-the-tongue (TOT) experiences are frustrating word-finding failures where people are temporarily unable to produce a word they are certain they know. TOT frequency increases with normal aging during adulthood, and behavioral evidence suggests that the underlying deficit is in retrieving the complete phonology of the target word during production. The present study investigated the neural correlates of this phonological retrieval deficit. We obtained 3-D T1-weighted structural magnetic resonance images (MRI) for healthy participants between 19 and 88 years old and used voxel-based morphometry to measure gray matter density throughout the brain. In a separate session, participants named celebrities cued by pictures and descriptions, indicating when they had a TOT, and also completed Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM), a task that does not involve phonological production. The number of TOTs increased with age and also with gray matter atrophy in the left insula, an area implicated in phonological production. The relation between TOTs and left insula atrophy cannot be attributed to the correlation of each variable with age because TOTs were related to insula atrophy even with age effects removed. Moreover, errors on the RPM increased with age, but performance did not correlate with gray matter density in the insula. These results provide, for the first time, an association between a region in the neural language system and the rise in age-related word-finding failures and suggest that age-related atrophy in neural regions important for phonological production may contribute to age-related word production failures.}, }
@article {pmid17886377, year = {2007}, author = {Sharshov, KA and Zolotykh, SI and Fedorov, EG and Ivanov, IV and Druziaka, AV and Shestopalov, AM and Netesov, SV}, title = {[Surveillance for avian influenza virus in synanthropic birds during epizootic and postepizootic periods on the south of west Siberia].}, journal = {Zhurnal mikrobiologii, epidemiologii i immunobiologii}, volume = {}, number = {4}, pages = {53-56}, pmid = {17886377}, issn = {0372-9311}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*virology ; Chick Embryo ; *Disease Outbreaks ; *Environmental Monitoring ; Epidemiological Monitoring ; Hemagglutination Tests ; Hemagglutinins/analysis ; Influenza A virus/classification/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Influenza in Birds/*epidemiology ; Siberia/epidemiology ; Viral Proteins/analysis ; }, abstract = {Results of virologic examination of synanthropic birds procured on the south part of West Siberia during epizootic in autumn 2005 and during postepizootic period (winter 2005-2006) are presented. During epizootic period one strain belonging to H4 subtype of hemagglutinin, which was not highly pathogenic, was isolated from a magpie. During postepizootic period influenza A viruses in synanthropic species were not found.}, }
@article {pmid17885609, year = {2007}, author = {Zhang, Q and Shi, J and Luo, Y and Liu, S and Yang, J and Shen, M}, title = {Effect of task complexity on intelligence and neural efficiency in children: an event-related potential study.}, journal = {Neuroreport}, volume = {18}, number = {15}, pages = {1599-1602}, doi = {10.1097/WNR.0b013e3282f03f22}, pmid = {17885609}, issn = {0959-4965}, mesh = {Adult ; Data Interpretation, Statistical ; *Electroencephalography ; Evoked Potentials/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Neurons/*physiology ; Photic Stimulation ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The present study investigates the effects of task complexity, intelligence and neural efficiency on children's performance on an Elementary Cognitive Task. Twenty-three children were divided into two groups on the basis of their Raven Progressive Matrix scores and were then asked to complete a choice reaction task with two test conditions. We recorded the electroencephalogram and calculated the peak latencies and amplitudes for anteriorly distributed P225, N380 and late positive component. Our results suggested shorter late positive component latencies in brighter children, possibly reflecting a higher processing speed in these individuals. Increased P225 amplitude and increased N380 amplitudes for brighter children may indicate a more efficient allocation of attention for brighter children. No moderating effect of task complexity on brain-intelligence relationship was found.}, }
@article {pmid17881983, year = {2007}, author = {Kotlus, BS and Dryden, RM}, title = {Periocular rhytidolysis with the wire scalpel.}, journal = {Ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {23}, number = {5}, pages = {355-357}, doi = {10.1097/IOP.0b013e3181462353}, pmid = {17881983}, issn = {0740-9303}, mesh = {Aged ; Eyelid Diseases/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Ophthalmologic Surgical Procedures/*instrumentation ; Rhytidoplasty/*instrumentation/methods ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: : To describe and evaluate a technique for minimization of lateral periocular rhytids ("crow's feet") with the wire scalpel surgical instrument.<br><br>METHODS: : Six patients with significant crow's feet were prospectively selected for treatment with the wire scalpel. Preoperative and postoperative photographs were evaluated for severity of crow's feet.<br><br>RESULTS: : Significant improvement in the appearance of crow's feet was noted in 5 of the 6 patients.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: : The wire scalpel surgical instrument can reduce the severity of lateral periocular rhytids via minimally invasive subcutaneous dissection.}, }
@article {pmid17876392, year = {2007}, author = {Fonseca, LC and Tedrus, GM and Pacheco, EM and Berretta, MF and Campregher, AA and Costa, DM}, title = {Benign childhood epilepsy with centro-temporal spikes: correlation between clinical, cognitive and EEG aspects.}, journal = {Arquivos de neuro-psiquiatria}, volume = {65}, number = {3A}, pages = {569-575}, doi = {10.1590/s0004-282x2007000400004}, pmid = {17876392}, issn = {0004-282X}, mesh = {Age of Onset ; Chi-Square Distribution ; Child ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/physiopathology/*psychology ; Educational Status ; Electroencephalography ; Epilepsy, Rolandic/physiopathology/*psychology ; Female ; Functional Laterality ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; Reading ; Remission, Spontaneous ; Time Factors ; *Underachievement ; *Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {Benign childhood epilepsy with centro-temporal spikes (BECTS) is a form of epilepsy with no demonstrable anatomical lesion showing spontaneous seizure remission. During the active phase of the disease the children may show cognitive deficits. The objective of this study was to assess, in children with BECTS, the relationship between clinical-EEG aspects and performance in the school performance test (SPT), Raven's progressive matrixes test and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-III). Forty-two 7 to 11 year old children were included and the following tests carried out: anamnesis, neurological examination, electroencephalogram (EEG), SPT, Raven's test and WISC-III. The children with BECTS had normal IQ values but showed inferior performance in the SPT more frequently than "healthy" children, paired with respect to age and maternal scholastic level. There was moderate positive correlation between WISC-III results and the age when the seizures started and the educational level of the parents. On the other hand, aspects linked to the epileptic nature of BECTS, such as the number of seizures, time since last seizure and the number and lateralization of the centro-temporal spikes on the EEG, showed no correlation with the neuropsychological tests.}, }
@article {pmid17850905, year = {2008}, author = {Biswas, PK and Uddin, GM and Barua, H and Roy, K and Biswas, D and Ahad, A and Debnath, NC}, title = {Survivability and causes of loss of broody-hen chicks on smallholder households in Bangladesh.}, journal = {Preventive veterinary medicine}, volume = {83}, number = {3-4}, pages = {260-271}, doi = {10.1016/j.prevetmed.2007.08.001}, pmid = {17850905}, issn = {0167-5877}, mesh = {Animal Husbandry/*methods ; Animals ; Bangladesh/epidemiology ; Cause of Death ; Chickens/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; Commerce ; Disease Outbreaks ; Female ; Oviposition/*physiology ; Population Density ; Poultry Diseases/epidemiology/*mortality ; Poverty ; *Predatory Behavior ; Risk Factors ; Survival Analysis ; }, abstract = {We determined the flock sizes and rates of loss caused by different factors in broody-hen chicks (BHC) up to 60 days of age on 600 randomly selected smallholdings in Bangladesh. The smallholders were beneficiaries of a village poultry production chain called 'Smallholder Livestock Development Project-2' (SLDP-2) which was undertaken with the financial assistance of the Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA). For estimating survival time of BHC, we observed chicks in 80 smallholdings. SLDP-2 aims at ameliorating poverty among women by poultry rearing at village level; in total, 104,000 key rearers, constituting 96% of all of the beneficiaries of the SLDP-2 area, were enrolled in 26 upazilas (a lower administrative unit of Bangladesh). A key rearer is a smallholder who rears at least five 'Sonali' (RIR x Fayoumi) and some indigenous (desi) chickens in a semi-scavenging system. Sonali chickens are supplied from the development project, and have higher egg production while the broodiness of the desi hens is exploited to get chicks hatched for future stocks; thus, the chicks hatched and reared to 60 days old at key rearers' households are called BHC. In this study 32% of the smallholders had BHC each month. At the beginning of a month, the median number of chicks in a flock was 8, and the mean survival time was 50.5 days. Incidence rates of loss of BHC from disease, predation, selling and slaughtering were 0.102, 0.086, 0.009 and 0.002 per chick-month at risk, respectively. The major predators were crows, mongooses and eagles with incidence rates of loss being 0.018, 0.016 and 0.010 per chick-month at risk, respectively. Colibacillosis (both single and mixed infections) contributed to the death of 21% of dead BHC collected; Newcastle disease and salmonellosis contributed to the next highest (14 and 12%) proportional mortalities.}, }
@article {pmid17786812, year = {2007}, author = {Sultan, F and Glickstein, M}, title = {The cerebellum: Comparative and animal studies.}, journal = {Cerebellum (London, England)}, volume = {6}, number = {3}, pages = {168-176}, pmid = {17786812}, issn = {1473-4222}, mesh = {Anatomy, Comparative/history ; Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Cerebellum/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; History, 20th Century ; Models, Anatomic ; Nerve Net/cytology/physiology ; }, abstract = {The cerebellum has a uniform cellular structure and microcircuitry, but the size of its subdivisions varies greatly among vertebrates. This variability is a challenge to anatomists to attempt to relate size differences to differences in characteristic behaviour. Here we review the early work of Lodewijk Bolk on the mammalian cerebellum and relate his observations to unfolded maps of the rodent cerebella. We further take insights from the comparative anatomy of the bird cerebella and find that cerebellar enlargement in large brains is not a passive consequence of overall brain enlargement, but is related to specific behaviour. We speculate that for some rodents (e.g., squirrels), primates and some large-brained birds (crows, parrots and woodpeckers), specifically enlarged cerebella are associated with either the elaboration of forelimb control (squirrels and primates) or in the case of the birds with beak control. The elaboration of such motor behaviour combined with increased visual control could have helped to furnish manipulative skills in these animals. Finally, we review the connections of the mammalian cerebellum and show that several pieces of experimental evidence point to an important function of the cerebellum in sensory control of movement reflex adjustment, and motor learning.}, }
@article {pmid17785527, year = {2007}, author = {Welch, D and Hassan, H and Blilou, I and Immink, R and Heidstra, R and Scheres, B}, title = {Arabidopsis JACKDAW and MAGPIE zinc finger proteins delimit asymmetric cell division and stabilize tissue boundaries by restricting SHORT-ROOT action.}, journal = {Genes &amp; development}, volume = {21}, number = {17}, pages = {2196-2204}, pmid = {17785527}, issn = {0890-9369}, mesh = {Arabidopsis/genetics/*growth &amp; development ; Arabidopsis Proteins/*physiology ; Carrier Proteins/*physiology ; Cell Division ; *Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Genes, Plant ; Plant Proteins/metabolism ; Plant Roots/metabolism ; Transcription Factors/*physiology ; }, abstract = {In the Arabidopsis root, the SHORT-ROOT transcription factor moves outward to the ground tissue from its site of transcription in the stele and is required for the specification of the endodermis and the stem cell organizing quiescent center cells. In addition, SHORT-ROOT and the downstream transcription factor SCARECROW control an oriented cell division in ground tissue stem cell daughters. Here, we show that the JACKDAW and MAGPIE genes, which encode members of a plant-specific family of zinc finger proteins, act in a SHR-dependent feed-forward loop to regulate the range of action of SHORT-ROOT and SCARECROW. JACKDAW expression is initiated independent of SHORT-ROOT and regulates the SCARECROW expression domain outside the stele, while MAGPIE expression depends on SHORT-ROOT and SCARECROW. We provide evidence that JACKDAW and MAGPIE regulate tissue boundaries and asymmetric cell division and can control SHORT-ROOT and SCARECROW activity in a transcriptional and protein interaction network.}, }
@article {pmid17767404, year = {2007}, author = {Jourdain, E and Schuffenecker, I and Korimbocus, J and Reynard, S and Murri, S and Kayser, Y and Gauthier-Clerc, M and Sabatier, P and Zeller, HG}, title = {West Nile virus in wild resident birds, Southern France, 2004.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {7}, number = {3}, pages = {448-452}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2006.0592}, pmid = {17767404}, issn = {1530-3667}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/*virology ; Cell Line ; France ; Immunoglobulin G/blood ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Passeriformes/*virology ; Phylogeny ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/*physiology ; }, abstract = {An equine West Nile virus (WNV) outbreak occurred in 2004 in the Camargue, a wetland area in the south of France where the virus was first reported in 1962 and re-emerged in 2000. WNV neutralizing antibodies were detected in resident birds and two isolates from a House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) and a Common Magpie (Pica pica) were completely sequenced. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that these isolates are closely related to strains previously found in horses in southern Europe and North Africa. More extensive investigation is required to determine whether WNV has been re-introduced or has become endemic in the Camargue.}, }
@article {pmid17762942, year = {2008}, author = {Schloegl, C and Kotrschal, K and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Do common ravens (Corvus corax) rely on human or conspecific gaze cues to detect hidden food?.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, pages = {231-241}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-007-0105-4}, pmid = {17762942}, issn = {1435-9448}, mesh = {Animal Communication ; Animals ; Attention/*physiology ; *Concept Formation ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; *Fixation, Ocular ; Humans ; Imitative Behavior/*physiology ; Male ; Nonverbal Communication ; *Problem Solving ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The ability of non-human animals to use experimenter-given cues in object-choice tasks has recently gained interest. In such experiments, the location of hidden food is indicated by an experimenter, e.g. by gazing, pointing or touching. Whereas dogs apparently outperform all other species so far tested, apes and monkeys have problems in using such cues. Since only mammalian species have been tested, information is lacking about the evolutionary origin of these abilities. We here present the first data on object-choice tasks conducted with an avian species, the common raven. Ravens are highly competitive scavengers, possessing sophisticated cognitive skills in protecting their food caches and pilfering others' caches. We conducted three experiments, exploring (i) which kind of cues ravens use for choosing a certain object, (ii) whether ravens use humans' gaze for detecting hidden food and (iii) whether ravens would find hidden food in the presence of an informed conspecific who potentially provides gaze cues. Our results indicate that ravens reliably respond to humans' touching of an object, but they hardly use point and gaze cues for their choices. Likewise, they do not perform above chance level in the presence of an informed conspecific. These findings mirror those obtained for primates and suggest that, although ravens may be aware of the gaze direction of humans and conspecifics, they apparently do not rely on this information to detect hidden food.}, }
@article {pmid17760691, year = {2007}, author = {Farahvash, MR and Arad, S}, title = {Clostridium botulinum type A toxin for the treatment of upper face animation lines: an Iranian experience.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {6}, number = {3}, pages = {152-158}, doi = {10.1111/j.1473-2165.2007.00325.x}, pmid = {17760691}, issn = {1473-2165}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Face ; Facial Muscles/anatomy &amp; histology/*drug effects ; Female ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Iran ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to evaluate the treatment of vertical glabellar frown lines, frontal lines and crow's feet by means of direct injection of Dysport (Clostridium botulinum type A toxin - hemagglutinin complex) in Iranian patients. Dysport is one of the commercially available type A subtypes (Ipsen Ltd, Maidenhead Berkshire, UK). It is the one used most often in Iran. Botox, the other form of commercially available botulinum type A toxin, is used most often in the United States and Canada. Dysport is two to four times less effective, in similar unit doses, than Botox, which is why it is manufactured in larger vials (500-U vials for Dysport vs. 100-U vials for Botox). The authors have been using botulinum toxin type A in their practice for cosmetic purposes since 1995. An experience of over 1295 injections to the upper face animation (dynamic) lines in 108 patients is presented. This study included 108 patients and 208 injection sessions. We used Dysport containing 500 U toxin. Toxin was diluted with 2.5 mL of sterile normal saline and yielded 20 U for each 0.1 mL. A dose of 76 to 90 U was injected into each muscle. There were 95 women and 13 men in this study, ranging in age from 20 to 79 years. Doses ranged from 10 to 20 mL per injection, varying according to the severity of wrinkles, intensity of muscle contraction, and the mass of the muscle. The more bulky or greater intensity of muscle contraction, the higher the dose required to obtain good results. Therefore, the more bulky corrugator or frontalis muscle requires more than the thinner orbicularis. Dysport seemed to be a safe and effective alternative to Botox, giving good to excellent cosmetic results lasting at least 4 months in the majority of the patients.}, }
@article {pmid17615046, year = {2007}, author = {Broder, HL and McGrath, C and Cisneros, GJ}, title = {Questionnaire development: face validity and item impact testing of the Child Oral Health Impact Profile.}, journal = {Community dentistry and oral epidemiology}, volume = {35 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {8-19}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-0528.2007.00401.x}, pmid = {17615046}, issn = {0301-5661}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Canada ; Child ; *Dental Health Surveys ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Oral Health ; *Quality of Life ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Surveys and Questionnaires ; United States ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The Child Oral Health Impact Profile (COHIP) was designed to assess oral-facial well-being in school-age children as reported by the child and via proxy report from a caregiver. This article describes the development of the COHIP using a multi-staged impact approach recommended by Guyatt et al. (Quality of life and pharmacoeconomics in clinical trials. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott-Raven; 1996. p. 41).<br><br>METHODS: There were multiple phases to the development of the questionnaire: (i) initial pool of items developed from the literature and expert review; (ii) face validity of items; (iii) impact evaluation of the initial item pool; (iv) development of positive items and face validity of new items; (v) impact evaluation of the revised questionnaire and (vi) factor analysis and final revision of the questionnaire. Factor analysis was completed on the final questionnaire using data from the impact evaluation in order to evaluate whether the COHIP measured independent conceptual domains.<br><br>RESULTS: Factor analysis identified five domains: oral health, functional well-being, social/emotional well-being, school environment and self-image. Readability was calculated using the Flesch-Kinkaid readability score that was finalized at a 3.5 grade reading level. Finally, two response sets, and a revised format (e.g., including pictures, increasing font size, and shading every other item) were implemented to decrease respondent fatigue and increase accuracy of participant responses.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The final questionnaire consisted of 34 items and five conceptually distinct subscales: oral health, functional well-being, social/emotional well-being, school environment and self-image. Subsequent papers present the validity and reliability of the COHIP.}, }
@article {pmid17725979, year = {2007}, author = {Jensen, KK and Cooper, BG and Larsen, ON and Goller, F}, title = {Songbirds use pulse tone register in two voices to generate low-frequency sound.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {274}, number = {1626}, pages = {2703-2710}, pmid = {17725979}, issn = {0962-8452}, support = {R01 DC004390/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DC006876/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DC 04390/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DC 06876/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Sound Spectrography ; Video Recording ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The principal physical mechanism of sound generation is similar in songbirds and humans, despite large differences in their vocal organs. Whereas vocal fold dynamics in the human larynx are well characterized, the vibratory behaviour of the sound-generating labia in the songbird vocal organ, the syrinx, is unknown. We present the first high-speed video records of the intact syrinx during induced phonation. The syrinx of anaesthetized crows shows a vibration pattern of the labia similar to that of the human vocal fry register. Acoustic pulses result from short opening of the labia, and pulse generation alternates between the left and right sound sources. Spontaneously calling crows can also generate similar pulse characteristics with only one sound generator. Airflow recordings in zebra finches and starlings show that pulse tone sounds can be generated unilaterally, synchronously or by alternating between the two sides. Vocal fry-like dynamics therefore represent a common production mechanism for low-frequency sounds in songbirds. These results also illustrate that complex vibration patterns can emerge from the mechanical properties of the coupled sound generators in the syrinx. The use of vocal fry-like dynamics in the songbird syrinx extends the similarity to this unusual vocal register with mammalian sound production mechanisms.}, }
@article {pmid17722990, year = {2006}, author = {Prindle, D}, title = {Stephen Jay Gould as a political theorist.}, journal = {Politics and the life sciences : the journal of the Association for Politics and the Life Sciences}, volume = {25}, number = {1-2}, pages = {2-14}, doi = {10.2990/1471-5457(2006)25[2:SJGAAP]2.0.CO;2}, pmid = {17722990}, issn = {0730-9384}, mesh = {Biological Evolution ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Male ; Natural History ; *Paleontology ; *Philosophy ; *Political Systems ; *Sociobiology ; }, abstract = {Before his death in 2002, paleontologist Stephen Jay Gould elaborated a large and inclusive theory of life's change. In this essay I concentrate on the aspects of Gould's vast theory that have the most direct political relevance. I briefly discuss his views on the philosophy of science. I examine the way he combined political values and methodology in a seamless, critical analysis of intelligence-testing and sociobiology. I concentrate most extensively on the impact his "punctuated equilibria" concept has made on contemporary political analysis, and I demonstrate that in their appropriation of this concept political scientists have violated the rules that Gould himself articulated for its use. In closing, I consider the possibility that a comprehensive theory of life, a theory that must include political values, might approach traditional questions of political thought more satisfyingly than has conventional philosophy.}, }
@article {pmid17722408, year = {2007}, author = {Ijarotimi, OS and Ijadunola, KT}, title = {Nutritional status and intelligence quotient of primary schoolchildren in Akure community of Ondo State, Nigeria.}, journal = {Tanzania health research bulletin}, volume = {9}, number = {2}, pages = {69-76}, doi = {10.4314/thrb.v9i2.14307}, pmid = {17722408}, issn = {0856-6496}, mesh = {Anthropometry ; Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*classification ; Male ; Nigeria ; *Nutritional Status ; Odds Ratio ; Private Sector ; Public Sector ; Schools ; }, abstract = {A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 402 children (10-15 years) randomly selected from twelve public and private primary schools in Akure community of Ondo State, Nigeria. Self-administered questionnaire was used to collect information on children's demographic features and parent's socio-economic characteristics. The subject's weight, height, height-for-age and weight-for-height z-score were measured and determined respectively. Raven Standard Progressive Matrices consisted of 60 questions was administered in a quiet classroom within 60 minutes to assess intelligence quotient (IQ) of the children. The means of measured parameters were: age, 11.5 +/- 0.08 years; weight, 33.3 +/- 0.35 kg; height, 1.4 +/- 0.0 m; height-for-age z-score, -0.003 +/- 0.04; weight-for-height z-score -7.2E-7 +/- 0.1 and IQ, 20.9 +/- 0.56 (34.8%). The occupations of the children's parents were civil service (43.3%), petty business (21.9%), farming (15.8%), vocational jobs (16.0%) and none (3.2%). The majority of the parents (31.8%) had secondary school education. Parents with no formal education, primary education, tertiary education and higher degrees accounted for 7.2%, 30.6%, 22.9% and 7.4%, respectively. Monthly incomes ranged between $38.5 and 230.8. Weight-for-height z-score of the children showed that 49.8% were normal, 40% mildly wasted, 9.7% moderately wasted and 0.5% severely wasted. Height-for-age z-score was 50% normal, 35.1% mildly stunted, 13.4% moderately stunted and 1.5% severely stunted. IQ scores were 5% superior 11.2% above average, 11.4% average, 8.2% below average and 64.2% intellectual deficit. The interrelationship between height-for-age, IQ and socio-demographic characteristics showed that there were insignificant differences between the age groups, gender and socio-economic status of the pupils. Conclusively, this study showed that the proportion of malnourished and intellectual deficit among the studied population were high. However, it is not clear whether the findings are specific to the studied population alone or applicable to other parts of Nigeria. Further studies are therefore needed to confirm these findings.}, }
@article {pmid17720972, year = {2007}, author = {Cooper, JE}, title = {House crows and the spread of pathogens.}, journal = {The Veterinary record}, volume = {161}, number = {8}, pages = {280}, doi = {10.1136/vr.161.8.280-a}, pmid = {17720972}, issn = {0042-4900}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/*transmission ; *Crows ; Humans ; Malaysia ; Zoonoses ; }, }
@article {pmid17718011, year = {2007}, author = {Amarra, MS and Bongga, DC and Peñano-Ho, L and Cruz, FB and Solis, JS and Barrios, EB}, title = {Effect of iodine status and other nutritional factors on psychomotor and cognitive performance of Filipino schoolchildren.}, journal = {Food and nutrition bulletin}, volume = {28}, number = {1}, pages = {47-54}, doi = {10.1177/156482650702800105}, pmid = {17718011}, issn = {0379-5721}, mesh = {Child ; Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; Cognition/*drug effects/physiology ; Female ; Food, Fortified ; Goiter/epidemiology ; Humans ; Iodine/administration &amp; dosage/*deficiency/*urine ; Male ; Nutritional Requirements ; *Nutritional Status ; Philippines ; Psychomotor Performance/*drug effects/physiology ; Sodium Chloride, Dietary/administration &amp; dosage ; Trace Elements/urine ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Until 1998, iodine deficiency was a public health problem in the Philippines. A law entitled "An Act Promoting Salt Iodization Nationwide" (ASIN) has been passed and implemented by the government to eliminate iodine deficiency. The contribution of salt iodization, as well as dietary, health, and environmental factors, to improving the intellectual performance of Filipino schoolchildren remains to be determined.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The objectives of the study were to determine the relationship between iodine status and levels of psychomotor and cognitive performance in first-grade children aged 6 to 10 years, and to examine the extent to which dietary, biochemical, health, and environmental factors contribute to children's mental performance.<br><br>METHODS: Two hundred ninety children in six classroom sections from a public school in Manila were examined by measurement of urinary iodine excretion (UIE) and thyroid palpation. The median UIE level for each section was determined. Sixty-five children classified as iodine deficient (UIE < 90 microg/L with grade 1 goiter, n = 34) and non-iodine deficient (UIE > 100 microg/L without goiter, n = 31) were given psychomotor and cognitive function tests (Bender-Gestalt and Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices). Scores from the two tests were used to determine each child's general ability percentile rank. Other variables examined were dietary intake (% RDA of nutrients ingested based on two nonconsecutive 24-hour recalls); deficiencies in iron, vitamin A, and selenium; parasitic infection; coliform contamination of drinking water; household use of iodized salt; illness in the past 2 weeks; and wasting and stunting.<br><br>RESULTS: Children whose general ability scores were at or above the 50th percentile had higher UIE levels, but the relationship was not significant. Children from sections with higher median UIE levels had higher percentile ranks for general ability (p = .002). Backward logistic regression showed that the variance in deficient and adequate mental performance was explained by dietary intakes that met > or = 80% of the RDA for energy, protein, thiamin, and riboflavin; the use of iodized salt; child's iodine status; and stunting (R2 = .520, p = .0016). Higher class median UIE was associated with better psychomotor and cognitive performance in children who were tested. Factors that contributed to better performance include higher intakes of energy, protein, thiamin, and riboflavin; household use of iodized salt; normal iodine status; and absence of stunting or chronic malnutrition.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Salt iodization, accompanied by adequate intakes of energy, protein, and foods rich in thiamin and riboflavin, can contribute to improved mental performance in Filipino schoolchildren. Longer-term factors that can contribute to improved performance are achievement of normal iodine status and elimination of protein-energy malnutrition.}, }
@article {pmid17714658, year = {2007}, author = {Clayton, NS and Emery, NJ}, title = {The social life of corvids.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {17}, number = {16}, pages = {R652-6}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2007.05.070}, pmid = {17714658}, issn = {0960-9822}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Social Behavior ; }, }
@article {pmid17714075, year = {2007}, author = {Metcalfe, CL and Daltrop, O and Ferguson, SJ and Raven, EL}, title = {Tuning the formation of a covalent haem-protein link by selection of reductive or oxidative conditions as exemplified by ascorbate peroxidase.}, journal = {The Biochemical journal}, volume = {408}, number = {3}, pages = {355-361}, pmid = {17714075}, issn = {1470-8728}, support = {BB/C001184/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; 063688/Z/01/Z/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; 062641/Z/00/Z/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Ascorbate Peroxidases ; Base Sequence ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid ; DNA Primers ; Heme/*metabolism ; Models, Molecular ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Mutagenesis, Site-Directed ; Oxidation-Reduction ; Peroxidases/chemistry/genetics/*metabolism ; Spectrometry, Mass, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption-Ionization ; }, abstract = {Previous work [Metcalfe, Ott, Patel, Singh, Mistry, Goff and Raven (2004) J. Am. Chem. Soc. 126, 16242-16248] has shown that the introduction of a methionine residue (S160M variant) close to the 2-vinyl group of the haem in ascorbate peroxidase leads to the formation of a covalent haem-methionine linkage under oxidative conditions (i.e. on reaction with H2O2). In the present study, spectroscopic, HPLC and mass spectrometric evidence is presented to show that covalent attachment of the haem to an engineered cysteine residue can also occur in the S160C variant, but, in this case, under reducing conditions analogous to those used in the formation of covalent links in cytochrome c. The data add an extra dimension to our understanding of haem to protein covalent bond formation because they show that different types of covalent attachment (one requiring an oxidative mechanism, the other a reductive pathway) are both accessible within same protein architecture.}, }
@article {pmid17712958, year = {2007}, author = {Kang, J and Jin, Y and Cheng, Y and Wu, K}, title = {[Effects of arsenic in drinking water on children's intelligence].}, journal = {Wei sheng yan jiu = Journal of hygiene research}, volume = {36}, number = {3}, pages = {347-349}, pmid = {17712958}, issn = {1000-8020}, mesh = {Arsenic/*toxicity ; Child ; Child Development/drug effects ; China ; *Environmental Exposure ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*drug effects ; Male ; Sex Factors ; Water Pollutants, Chemical/*toxicity ; Water Supply/*analysis ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To study the effect of high concentration arsenic in drinking water on children's intelligence.<br><br>METHODS: Pupils in Hangjinhou Qi were selected as subjects. Arsenic in drinking water and urine was determined. These subjects were divided into control(< 0.05mg/L, group A), mild exposure (0.05 - 0.1mg/L, group B) and heavy exposure group(> or = 0.1 mg/L, group C), according to arsenic concentration in drinking water. The Chinese combined Raven' s test was applied to evaluate the intelligence of children. In addition, the questionnaire survey was conducted to find out information, such as general information of households, source of drinking water, health of subjects and their parents, education of parents, etc.<br><br>RESULTS: The boys' average intelligence quotients (IQ) were 99.4 (group A), 96.5 (group B), 94.9 (group C). On the other hand, average IQs of girls were 101.3 (group A), 98.3 (group B) and 94.2 (group C) in the sequence from high to low. When other factors were adjusted, the average intelligence quotient of girls who exposured to arsenic higher than 0.1 mg/L were significantly decreased, compared with control groups, while boys' IQ did not show so.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Children's ingested the dring water contaminating arsenic (> 1.0mg/L) for the long run probably could have adverse effect on their intelligence development in some degree. Girls' IQ seemed more susceptible to arsenic.}, }
@article {pmid17711473, year = {2007}, author = {Martín-Gálvez, D and Soler, JJ and Martínez, JG and Krupa, AP and Soler, M and Burke, T}, title = {Cuckoo parasitism and productivity in different magpie subpopulations predict frequencies of the 457bp allele: a mosaic of coevolution at a small geographic scale.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {61}, number = {10}, pages = {2340-2348}, doi = {10.1111/j.1558-5646.2007.00194.x}, pmid = {17711473}, issn = {0014-3820}, mesh = {Alleles ; Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Female ; *Gene Frequency ; Genetic Variation ; *Nesting Behavior ; Passeriformes/*genetics/*parasitology/physiology ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {The level of defense against great spotted cuckoo (Clamator glandarius) parasitism in different European populations of magpie (Pica pica) depends on selection pressures due to parasitism and gene flow between populations, which suggests the existence of coevolutionary hot spots within a European metapopulation. A mosaic of coevolution is theoretically possible at small geographical scales and with strong gene flow, because, among other reasons, plots may differ in productivity (i.e., reproductive success of hosts in the absence of parasitism) and defensive genotypes theoretically should be more common in plots of high productivity. Here, we tested this prediction by exploring the relationship between parasitism rate, level of defense against parasitism (estimated as both rejection rate and the frequency of the 457bp microsatellite allele associated with foreign egg rejection in magpies), and some variables related to the productivity (average laying date, clutch size, and number of hatchlings per nest) of magpies breeding in different subpopulations. We found that both estimates of defensive ability (egg rejection rate and frequency of the 457bp allele) covaried significantly with between-plot differences in probability of parasitism, laying date, and number of hatchlings per nest. Moreover, the parasitism rate was larger in more productive plots. These results confirm the existence of a mosaic of coevolution at a very local geographical scale, and the association between laying date and number of hatchlings with variables related to defensive ability and the selection pressure arising from parasitism supports the prediction of coevolutionary gradients in relation to host productivity.}, }
@article {pmid17704033, year = {2007}, author = {Kumar, MV and Rajagopalan, S}, title = {Multiple micronutrient fortification of salt and its effect on cognition in Chennai school children.}, journal = {Asia Pacific journal of clinical nutrition}, volume = {16}, number = {3}, pages = {505-511}, pmid = {17704033}, issn = {0964-7058}, mesh = {Attention/*drug effects ; Biological Availability ; Blood Chemical Analysis ; Child ; Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena/*physiology ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Erythrocyte Count ; Female ; *Food, Fortified ; Hematocrit ; Hemoglobins/analysis ; Humans ; India ; Iodine/urine ; Male ; Memory/*drug effects ; Micronutrients/*administration &amp; dosage ; Nutritional Status ; Schools ; Sodium Chloride, Dietary/administration &amp; dosage ; Stomatitis/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {AIM: To test the efficacy of a multiple micronutrient fortified salt in improving the micronutrient status and health of school children and its effect on cognition.<br><br>METHODS: A salt fortified with multiple micronutrients was developed containing chelated ferrous sulphate, microencapsulated vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, B12, folic acid, niacin, calcium pantothenate and iodine. The efficacy of the fortified salt was assessed in 7-11 year old school children in Chennai, India. In the experimental group (N=63), the food in the school kitchen was cooked with the fortified salt for a period of one year. The control group (N=66) consisted of day scholars who did not eat at the school. Hemoglobin, red blood cell count, hematocrit, serum vitamin A, urinary iodine and prevalence of angular stomatitis were measured at baseline and at the end of the study after one year. A battery of 7 memory tests (The personal information test, the Mann-Suiter Visual memory screen for objects, The digit span forward test, The digit span backward test, The delayed response test, The Benton Visual Retention Test and The Cattells retentivity test), one test for attention and concentration (Letter cancellation test) and one test for intelligence (Raven's coloured progressive matrices) were administered to all the children at baseline and endline.<br><br>RESULTS: There was a significant (p<0.05) improvement in the experimental group in hemoglobin, red cell count, urinary iodine and serum vitamin A whereas in the control group there was a statistically significant decline (p<0.05) in hemoglobin, hematocrit, red cell count and urinary iodine. Angular stomatitis was eliminated from baseline 30.4% in the experimental group whereas it increased from 3.25% to 25.5% in the control group. In 4 tests out of the 7 memory tests and in the letter cancellation test for attention, the mean increment in scores in the experimental group is significantly more (p<0.05) than the control group. There was no significant improvement in overall intelligence as seen in the Ravens progressive matrices between the experimental and control groups.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The study shows that the multiple micronutrient fortified salt is effective in improving multiple micronutrient status and cognition in children.}, }
@article {pmid17702575, year = {2007}, author = {Taylor, AH and Hunt, GR and Holzhaider, JC and Gray, RD}, title = {Spontaneous metatool use by New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {17}, number = {17}, pages = {1504-1507}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2007.07.057}, pmid = {17702575}, issn = {0960-9822}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cognition ; *Crows ; Meat ; *Problem Solving ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {A crucial stage in hominin evolution was the development of metatool use -- the ability to use one tool on another [1, 2]. Although the great apes can solve metatool tasks [3, 4], monkeys have been less successful [5-7]. Here we provide experimental evidence that New Caledonian crows can spontaneously solve a demanding metatool task in which a short tool is used to extract a longer tool that can then be used to obtain meat. Six out of the seven crows initially attempted to extract the long tool with the short tool. Four successfully obtained meat on the first trial. The experiments revealed that the crows did not solve the metatool task by trial-and-error learning during the task or through a previously learned rule. The sophisticated physical cognition shown appears to have been based on analogical reasoning. The ability to reason analogically may explain the exceptional tool-manufacturing skills of New Caledonian crows.}, }
@article {pmid17694056, year = {2007}, author = {Brault, AC and Huang, CY and Langevin, SA and Kinney, RM and Bowen, RA and Ramey, WN and Panella, NA and Holmes, EC and Powers, AM and Miller, BR}, title = {A single positively selected West Nile viral mutation confers increased virogenesis in American crows.}, journal = {Nature genetics}, volume = {39}, number = {9}, pages = {1162-1166}, pmid = {17694056}, issn = {1061-4036}, support = {R01 CI000235/CI/NCPDCID CDC HHS/United States ; CI000235/CI/NCPDCID CDC HHS/United States ; R01 AI061822-01/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI061822/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; AI061822/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; U54 AI065359/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; U54 AI065359-010001/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Americas ; Amino Acid Substitution ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Crows/*virology ; Evolution, Molecular ; Genome, Viral ; Geography ; Humans ; *Mutation ; Phylogeny ; RNA Helicases/genetics ; Serine Endopeptidases/genetics ; Viral Nonstructural Proteins/genetics ; Virulence/genetics ; West Nile virus/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV), first recognized in North America in 1999, has been responsible for the largest arboviral epiornitic and epidemic of human encephalitis in recorded history. Despite the well-described epidemiological patterns of WNV in North America, the basis for the emergence of WNV-associated avian pathology, particularly in the American crow (AMCR) sentinel species, and the large scale of the North American epidemic and epiornitic is uncertain. We report here that the introduction of a T249P amino acid substitution in the NS3 helicase (found in North American WNV) in a low-virulence strain was sufficient to generate a phenotype highly virulent to AMCRs. Furthermore, comparative sequence analyses of full-length WNV genomes demonstrated that the same site (NS3-249) was subject to adaptive evolution. These phenotypic and evolutionary results provide compelling evidence for the positive selection of a mutation encoding increased viremia potential and virulence in the AMCR sentinel bird species.}, }
@article {pmid17683430, year = {2007}, author = {Engen, S and Ringsby, TH and Saether, BE and Lande, R and Jensen, H and Lillegård, M and Ellegren, H}, title = {Effective size of fluctuating populations with two sexes and overlapping generations.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {61}, number = {8}, pages = {1873-1885}, doi = {10.1111/j.1558-5646.2007.00155.x}, pmid = {17683430}, issn = {0014-3820}, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Male ; *Models, Biological ; Population Density ; Population Dynamics ; *Reproduction ; Sex Factors ; *Sparrows ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {We derive formulas that can be applied to estimate the effective population size N(e) for organisms with two sexes reproducing once a year and having constant adult mean vital rates independent of age. Temporal fluctuations in population size are generated by demographic and environmental stochasticity. For populations with even sex ratio at birth, no deterministic population growth and identical mean vital rates for both sexes, the key parameter determining N(e) is simply the mean value of the demographic variance for males and females considered separately. In this case Crow and Kimura's generalization of Wright's formula for N(e) with two sexes, in terms of the effective population sizes for each sex, is applicable even for fluctuating populations with different stochasticity in vital rates for males and females. If the mean vital rates are different for the sexes then a simple linear combination of the demographic variances determines N(e), further extending Wright's formula. For long-lived species an expression is derived for N(e) involving the generation times for both sexes. In the general case with nonzero population growth and uneven sex ratio of newborns, we use the model to investigate numerically the effects of different population parameters on N(e). We also estimate the ratio of effective to actual population size in six populations of house sparrows on islands off the coast of northern Norway. This ratio showed large interisland variation because of demographic differences among the populations. Finally, we calculate how N(e) in a growing house sparrow population will change over time.}, }
@article {pmid17680932, year = {2007}, author = {Dawson, M and Soulières, I and Gernsbacher, MA and Mottron, L}, title = {The level and nature of autistic intelligence.}, journal = {Psychological science}, volume = {18}, number = {8}, pages = {657-662}, pmid = {17680932}, issn = {0956-7976}, support = {F33 DC005365/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Autistic Disorder/*psychology ; Child ; Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; }, abstract = {Autistics are presumed to be characterized by cognitive impairment, and their cognitive strengths (e.g., in Block Design performance) are frequently interpreted as low-level by-products of high-level deficits, not as direct manifestations of intelligence. Recent attempts to identify the neuroanatomical and neurofunctional signature of autism have been positioned on this universal, but untested, assumption. We therefore assessed a broad sample of 38 autistic children on the preeminent test of fluid intelligence, Raven's Progressive Matrices. Their scores were, on average, 30 percentile points, and in some cases more than 70 percentile points, higher than their scores on the Wechsler scales of intelligence. Typically developing control children showed no such discrepancy, and a similar contrast was observed when a sample of autistic adults was compared with a sample of nonautistic adults. We conclude that intelligence has been underestimated in autistics.}, }
@article {pmid17679516, year = {2007}, author = {Ferrell, ST and Snowden, K and Marlar, AB and Garner, M and Lung, NP}, title = {Fatal hemoprotozoal infections in multiple avian species in a zoological park.}, journal = {Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine : official publication of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians}, volume = {38}, number = {2}, pages = {309-316}, doi = {10.1638/1042-7260(2007)038[0309:FHIIMA]2.0.CO;2}, pmid = {17679516}, issn = {1042-7260}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Zoo ; Bird Diseases/*diagnosis/parasitology/pathology ; Birds ; Cytochromes b/*genetics ; DNA, Protozoan/analysis ; Fatal Outcome ; Female ; Gene Amplification ; Haemosporida/*isolation &amp; purification ; Liver/*parasitology/pathology ; Male ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/methods/veterinary ; Protozoan Infections, Animal/*diagnosis/parasitology/pathology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Over a 3-yr span, two juvenile lesser flamingos (Phoeniconaias minor), two green jays (Cyanocorax yncas glaucescens), and two Montezuma oropendolas (Psarocolius montezuma) died peracutely with no premonitory signs at a zoological park in the southern United States. At necropsy, the birds were in excellent body condition. Except for one green jay, the coelomic cavities were filled with a dark serosanguineous fluid. Splenomegaly and hepatomegaly were present. The livers were tan to purple with numerous, randomly distributed red-to-black foci, ranging in size from 1 to 4 mm. The predominant histopathologic finding, except in one green jay, was large protozoal cysts in the hepatic parenchyma. Histologically, the protozoal cysts were restricted to the liver, and none were identified in the skeletal muscle, spleen, or other tissues. Frozen tissue samples harvested at necropsy had a nested polymerase chain reaction assay performed to amplify the mitochondrial cytochrome B gene of the protozoa. The amplified gene sequences were compared with reference cytochrome B gene sequences for avian Plasmodium spp., Haemoproteus spp., and Leucocytozoon spp. The protozoal parasite within the hepatic parenchyma from the Montezuma oropendolas and the lesser flamingos was identified as Haemoproteus spp. Both green jays had Plasmodium spp. isolated from the submitted tissue samples. The peracute nature of the infections precluded any successful medical intervention, making prevention by exclusion the principal means to control hemoprotozoal transmission. There are no reports in the literature documenting identified fatal hemoprotozoal infections in oropendolas, green jays, or lesser flamingos.}, }
@article {pmid17671869, year = {2007}, author = {Casanova, MF}, title = {Schizophrenia seen as a deficit in the modulation of cortical minicolumns by monoaminergic systems.}, journal = {International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England)}, volume = {19}, number = {4}, pages = {361-372}, doi = {10.1080/09540260701486738}, pmid = {17671869}, issn = {0954-0261}, support = {MH 61606/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; MH 62654/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Biogenic Monoamines/*physiology ; Cerebral Cortex/pathology/*physiopathology ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Nerve Fibers/pathology/physiology ; Neurons/pathology/physiology ; Schizophrenia/*pathology/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {The highly evolved architecture of the cerebral cortex is organized across hierarchical levels that maximize functional repertoires (emergent properties) and expedite information processing. Minicolumns are nested within this multiscale architecture as the smallest module capable of processing information. Signals are transmitted within minicolumns through massive ion-gated connections and modulated through slower onset second messenger systems. The terminal zones of the modulatory second messenger systems comprise the laminae of the cortex. A comprehensive review of the literature suggests that schizophrenia results from widely distributed changes at the level of the cerebral cortex and little, if any, neuronal somatic changes: (Esiri &amp; Crow, 2002). Concordant with this observation recent studies indicate that schizophrenic patients have an alteration of neuronal connectivity according to both lamina and brain region examined. One possible explanation for this deficit is an alteration in the modulatory system of cortical minicolumns. This ontogenetic deficit propitiates a cascade of neurochemical changes resulting in varying abnormalities relating information processing to behavioural states.}, }
@article {pmid17669858, year = {2007}, author = {Yoshikai, M and Itoh, T and Kamohara, K and Yunoki, J and Fumoto, H}, title = {Intimal injury of ultrasonically skeletonized internal thoracic artery by a vessel clamp: morphological analysis.}, journal = {Interactive cardiovascular and thoracic surgery}, volume = {6}, number = {3}, pages = {331-334}, doi = {10.1510/icvts.2006.145367}, pmid = {17669858}, issn = {1569-9285}, mesh = {Coronary Artery Bypass/*methods ; Humans ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; Surgical Instruments/*adverse effects ; Thoracic Arteries/*diagnostic imaging/transplantation ; Tissue and Organ Harvesting/methods ; Tunica Intima/*injuries/ultrastructure ; Ultrasonics ; Ultrasonography ; }, abstract = {The skeletonized internal thoracic artery (ITA) has several advantages over a pedicled one in coronary artery bypass grafting. A skeletonized ITA, which lacks surrounding tissue, thus seems more susceptible to the mechanical force exerted by a vessel clamp than the pedicled ITA. The purpose of this study was to assess the detrimental effect of vessel clamps on the intimal integrity of the ultrasonically skeletonized ITA. We skeletonized twelve ITAs with an ultrasonic scalpel in patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting, and thereafter two types of clamp, namely a metal clamp and a fibrous jaw clamp, were applied to the terminal portion of the ITA for 30 min. The intimal integrity of the ITAs was morphologically assessed using scanning electron microscopy. A metal clamp can cause serious intimal injury which disrupts the internal elastic lamina, and thus should be avoided for the temporary clamping of the skeletonized ITA. A fibrous jay clamp, however, hardly ever causes intimal injury, and its clinical use for the temporary clamping of the ultrasonically skeletonized ITA is therefore recommended. Vessel clamps can cause intimal injury of the ultrasonically skeletonized ITA, and the degree of the injury depends on the type of the clamp used.}, }
@article {pmid17665027, year = {2007}, author = {Leite, AC and Nascimento, OJ and Lima, MA and Andrada-Serpa, MJ}, title = {POEMS (polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M protein, skin lesions) syndrome: a South America's report.}, journal = {Arquivos de neuro-psiquiatria}, volume = {65}, number = {2B}, pages = {516-520}, doi = {10.1590/s0004-282x2007000300030}, pmid = {17665027}, issn = {0004-282X}, mesh = {Adult ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*diagnosis/pathology/therapy ; }, abstract = {The POEMS syndrome, also known as Crow-Fukase syndrome, is an unusual systemic disorder described mainly in Asian individuals. It is characterized by the presence of (P)polyneuropathy, (O)organomegaly, (E)endocrinopathy, (M) M-protein, and (S) skin changes. Several other associated conditions such as sclerotic bone lesions, Castleman disease, low-grade fever, edema and hematologic disorders are usually seen. We describe five Brazilian patients with this syndrome. Two patients presented Castleman disease, one patient presented osteosclerotic myeloma and in two patients no associated conditions were found.}, }
@article {pmid17661818, year = {2007}, author = {Govaerts, LC and Smit, AE and Saris, JJ and VanderWerf, F and Willemsen, R and Bakker, CE and De Zeeuw, CI and Oostra, BA}, title = {Exceptional good cognitive and phenotypic profile in a male carrying a mosaic mutation in the FMR1 gene.}, journal = {Clinical genetics}, volume = {72}, number = {2}, pages = {138-144}, doi = {10.1111/j.1399-0004.2007.00829.x}, pmid = {17661818}, issn = {0009-9163}, support = {R01 HD38038/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; *Cognition ; Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein/*genetics ; Fragile X Syndrome/*diagnosis/*genetics/metabolism ; Gene Expression Profiling ; Genotype ; Hair/metabolism ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Lymphocytes/metabolism ; Male ; *Mutation ; Phenotype ; }, abstract = {Fragile X (FRAX) syndrome is a commonly inherited form of mental retardation resulting from the lack of expression of the fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP). It is caused by a stretch of CGG repeats within the fragile X gene, which can be unstable in length as it is transmitted from generation to generation. Once the repeat exceeds a threshold length, the FMR1 gene is methylated and no protein is produced resulting in the fragile X phenotype. The consequences of FMRP absence in the mechanisms underlying mental retardation are unknown. We have identified a male patient in a classical FRAX family without the characteristic FRAX phenotype. His intelligence quotient (IQ) is borderline normal despite the presence of a mosaic pattern of a pre-mutation (25%), full mutation (60%) and a deletion (15%) in the FMR1 gene. The cognitive performance was determined at the age of 28 by the Raven test and his IQ was 81. However, FMRP expression studies in both hair roots and lymphocytes, determined at the same time as the IQ test, were within the affected male range. The percentage of conditioned responses after delay eyeblink conditioning was much higher than the average percentage measured in FRAX studies. Moreover, this patient showed no correlation between FMRP expression and phenotype and no correlation between DNA diagnostics and phenotype.}, }
@article {pmid17652978, year = {2007}, author = {Beigelman-Aubry, C and Ferretti, G and Mompoint, D and Ameille, J and Letourneux, M and Frija, J and Laurent, F}, title = {[Computed tomographic atlas of benign asbestos related pathology].}, journal = {Journal de radiologie}, volume = {88}, number = {6}, pages = {845-862}, doi = {10.1016/s0221-0363(07)89886-6}, pmid = {17652978}, issn = {0221-0363}, mesh = {Asbestosis/*diagnostic imaging ; Humans ; *Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {The demonstration by computed tomography of abnormalities related to asbestos is essential for the recognition of industrial disease, the compensation of which has considerable economic consequences. The use of compute tomography, the most reliable technique for the detection of pleuro-parenchymatous abnormalities related to asbestos exposure, has increased considerably in France since the publication of the results of a consensus conference in Paris in 1999. Since that time, developments in technology have noticeably modified the protocols of investigation and increased the sensitivity of the detection of pleural and interstitial parenchymatous abnormalities and of nodules. The technical recommendations and those for the interpretation of pleural and parenchymatous abnormalities need to be well known. They are presented in the form of an atlas that gives detailed criteria for asbestosis, pleural plaques and pleural fibrosis. The diagnosis of pleural plaques depends on the combination of clear limits at the pleural and pulmonary interface, typical topography and multiple, bilateral localization. In the context of asbestos exposure the plaques are characteristic of this exposure, unlike diffuse pleural thickening, crow's feet images, parenchymatous bands and entrapped atalectasis. The writing of the radiological report would be most appropriate on this basis.}, }
@article {pmid17644273, year = {2008}, author = {Schloegl, C and Kotrschal, K and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Modifying the object-choice task: is the way you look important for ravens?.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {77}, number = {1}, pages = {61-65}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2007.06.002}, pmid = {17644273}, issn = {0376-6357}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; *Choice Behavior ; Crows ; Cues ; Female ; Fixation, Ocular ; Male ; Random Allocation ; Videotape Recording ; }, abstract = {Most animals seem to have difficulties in using gaze cues to find hidden food in object-choice tasks. For instance, chimpanzees usually fail in these tests, even though they are capable of following other's gaze geometrically behind barriers. Similar to chimpanzees, common ravens are skilled in tracking other's gaze but fail in object-choice tasks. We here explored whether procedural modifications, which had been used successfully in chimpanzees, would also yield positive results in ravens. In our modifications (a) the experimenter approached the cup while gazing at it, (b) the gaze cue was accompanied by a sound and (c) the experimenter could actually see the food while giving the gaze cue. Two out of seven birds performed above chance level in some of these conditions. However, we ascribe this improvement to the individuals' learning ability rather than to an understanding of the communicative nature of the task. This interpretation is further supported by results of a follow-up experiment suggesting that ravens may not rely on conspecifics' gaze cues for finding food caches in a natural foraging context. In sum, our results suggest that ravens may not transfer their gaze follow abilities to foraging situations involving hidden food.}, }
@article {pmid17634852, year = {2007}, author = {Senthilkumar, K and Ohi, E and Sajwan, K and Takasuga, T and Kannan, K}, title = {Perfluorinated compounds in river water, river sediment, market fish, and wildlife samples from Japan.}, journal = {Bulletin of environmental contamination and toxicology}, volume = {79}, number = {4}, pages = {427-431}, doi = {10.1007/s00128-007-9243-2}, pmid = {17634852}, issn = {0007-4861}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Birds ; Environmental Monitoring ; Fishes ; *Fluorocarbons/analysis/metabolism ; Fresh Water/*analysis/chemistry ; Geologic Sediments/*analysis/chemistry ; Japan ; Liver/chemistry/*metabolism ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Perfluorinated organic compounds (PFCs) such as PFOS, PFOA, PFBS, PFHxS, PFOSA and PFDoA were determined in river water, river sediment, liver of market fish and liver of wildlife samples from Japan. Concentrations of PFOA and PFOS in water samples were 7.9-110 and <5.2-10 ng/L. Only PFOA were detected in sediment from Kyoto river at 1.3-3.9 ng/g dry wt. Among fish, only jack mackerel showed PFOA and PFOS at 10 and 1.6 ng/g wet wt. Wildlife liver contained PFOSA, PFOS, PFDoA, PFOA and PFHxS in the range of 0.31-362, 0.15-238, <0.03-28, >0.07-7.3 and <0.03-1.5, respectively, on ng/g wet wt. Cormorants showed maximum accumulation followed by eagle, raccoon dog and large-billed crow.}, }
@article {pmid17633422, year = {2007}, author = {Pecoraro, HL and Day, HL and Reineke, R and Stevens, N and Withey, JC and Marzluff, JM and Meschke, JS}, title = {Climatic and landscape correlates for potential West Nile virus mosquito vectors in the Seattle region.}, journal = {Journal of vector ecology : journal of the Society for Vector Ecology}, volume = {32}, number = {1}, pages = {22-28}, doi = {10.3376/1081-1710(2007)32[22:calcfp]2.0.co;2}, pmid = {17633422}, issn = {1081-1710}, mesh = {Animals ; Climate ; Culicidae/*virology ; Ecology ; Geography ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; Temperature ; Washington ; West Nile virus/growth &amp; development/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Climatic and landscape patterns have been associated with both relative mosquito abundance and transmission of mosquito-borne illnesses in many parts of the world, especially warm and tropical climes. To determine if temperature, precipitation, or degree of urbanization were similarly important in the number of potential mosquito vectors for West Nile virus in the moderately temperate climate of western Washington, mosquitoes were collected using CDC carbon-dioxide/light traps set throughout the Seattle region during the summers of 2003 and 2004. The type and abundance of recovered species were compared to ecological correlates. Temperature and mosquito abundance were positively correlated, while precipitation was not strongly correlated with numbers of mosquitoes. Potential WNV mosquito vectors were most abundant in urban and suburban sites, including sites near communal roosts of American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos). Exurban sites had the greatest vector species diversity, and Culex pipiens was the most abundant species throughout the region.}, }
@article {pmid17632435, year = {2007}, author = {Beigelman-Aubry, C and Ferretti, G and Mompoint, D and Ameille, J and Letourneux, M and Laurent, F}, title = {[Computed tomographic atlas of benign asbestos related pathology].}, journal = {Revue des maladies respiratoires}, volume = {24}, number = {6}, pages = {759-781}, doi = {10.1016/s0761-8425(07)91150-x}, pmid = {17632435}, issn = {0761-8425}, mesh = {Asbestosis/*diagnostic imaging ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Fibrosis ; Humans ; Lung/diagnostic imaging ; *Medical Illustration ; Pleura/diagnostic imaging ; Pleural Diseases/diagnostic imaging ; Pulmonary Atelectasis/diagnostic imaging ; Pulmonary Fibrosis/diagnostic imaging ; Solitary Pulmonary Nodule/diagnostic imaging ; *Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {The demonstration by computed tomography of abnormalities related to asbestos is essential for the recognition of industrial disease, the compensation of which has considerable economic consequences. The use of computed tomography, the most reliable technique for the detection of pleuro-parenchymatous abnormalities related to asbestos exposure, has increased considerably in France since the publication of the results of a consensus conference in Paris in 1999. Since that time, developments in CT technology have noticeably modified the protocols of investigation and increased the sensitivity of the detection of pleural and interstitial parenchymatous abnormalities and of nodules. The technical recommendations and those for the interpretation of pleural and parenchymatous abnormalities need to be well known. They are presented in the form of an atlas that gives detailed criteria for asbestosis, pleural plaques and pleural fibrosis. The diagnosis of pleural plaques depends on the combination of clear limits at the pleural and pulmonary interface, typical topography and multiple, bilateral localization. In the context of asbestos exposure the plaques are characteristic of this exposure, unlike diffuse pleural thickening, crow's feet images, parenchymatous bands and entrapped atalectasis. The writing of the radiological report would be most appropriate on this basis.}, }
@article {pmid17630852, year = {2007}, author = {Gao, L and Yu, S and Wu, Y and Shan, B}, title = {Effect of spider venom on cell apoptosis and necrosis rates in MCF-7 cells.}, journal = {DNA and cell biology}, volume = {26}, number = {7}, pages = {485-489}, doi = {10.1089/dna.2007.0579}, pmid = {17630852}, issn = {1044-5498}, mesh = {Apoptosis/*drug effects ; Breast Neoplasms ; Cell Cycle/drug effects ; Cell Line, Tumor ; Cell Survival/drug effects ; Electric Stimulation ; Female ; Humans ; Kinetics ; Necrosis/*chemically induced ; Spider Venoms/*toxicity ; Thymidine/metabolism ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of antitumor activity of the venom from the spider Macrothele raven (Araneae, Hexathelidae) on the human breast carcinoma cell line, MCF-7. The spider venom affected cell viability in a dose- and time-dependent manner as observed by [(3)H]-methyl thymidine incorporation assay. Cytotoxicity changes in MCF-7 cells caused by the spider venom at concentrations of 10, 20, and 40 mug/mL were determined by lactate dehydrogenase release assay. Flow cytometry showed that the spider venom induced apoptosis and necrosis of MCF-7 cells at these concentrations. MCF-7 cells treated with spider venom were accumulated on the G(2)/M and G(0)/G(1) phases. In addition, Western blotting analysis indicated that one of the pharmacological mechanisms of spider venom was to activate the expression of p21. In vivo examination of the inhibition of tumor growth in nude mice by the spider venom (at concentrations of 1.6, 1.8, and 2.0 mug/g mice) revealed that tumor size significantly decreased compared to controls by 21 days of treatment and at all points of analysis thereafter for 7 weeks (p < 0.01). We thus propose that the in vivo and in vitro effects of the spider venom can be possibly estimated.}, }
@article {pmid17627449, year = {2007}, author = {Mores, CN and Turell, MJ and Dohm, DJ and Blow, JA and Carranza, MT and Quintana, M}, title = {Experimental transmission of West Nile virus by Culex nigripalpus from Honduras.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {279-284}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2006.0557}, pmid = {17627449}, issn = {1530-3667}, mesh = {Animals ; Chickens/parasitology/virology ; Culex/*physiology/*virology ; Honduras ; Humans ; Insect Vectors/*physiology/*virology ; Species Specificity ; Viremia/veterinary ; West Nile Fever/*transmission ; West Nile virus/growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {As a result of concerns regarding the geographic spread of West Nile virus (WNV) to Central America, we evaluated the potential for Honduran Culex nigripalpus Theobald to transmit this virus. We tested individual mosquitoes captured in Olancho Province, Honduras, in September 2003. Mosquitoes were allowed to feed on 2- to 4- day-old chickens previously inoculated with a New York strain (Crow 397-99) of WNV. Infection rates in Cx. nigripalpus ranged from 81%-96% after feeding on chickens with viremias between 10(6.3) and 10(7.4) plaque-forming units per milliliter. Development of a disseminated infection was directly correlated with holding time after the infectious blood meal as 68% (19/28) of the mosquitoes tested 20 days after the infectious blood meal had a disseminated infection as compared to 38% (15/40) of the mosquitoes tested 14 days after feeding on the same viremic chickens (viremia = 10(6.97.4)). Nearly all (4/5) Cx. nigripalpus with a disseminated infection that fed on susceptible chickens transmitted virus by bite. In addition, 8 (57%) of 14 Cx. nigripalpus with a disseminated infection transmitted virus when tested by a capillary tube feeding assay. Based on its efficiency of viral transmission in this study and its role in the transmission of the closely related St. Louis encephalitis virus in the southeastern United States, Cx. nigripalpus should be considered a potentially important vector of WNV in Honduras and the rest of Central America.}, }
@article {pmid17626492, year = {2007}, author = {Foral, TM and French, RA and Van Kruiningen, HJ and Garmendia, AE}, title = {Fluorescent antibody test for rapid detection of West Nile virus antigen in avian tissues.}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {51}, number = {2}, pages = {601-605}, doi = {10.1637/0005-2086(2007)51[601:FATFRD]2.0.CO;2}, pmid = {17626492}, issn = {0005-2086}, mesh = {Animals ; Antigens, Viral/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Bird Diseases/*diagnosis/epidemiology/immunology/virology ; Connecticut/epidemiology ; Crows/*virology ; Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect/methods/*veterinary ; Kidney/virology ; Liver/virology ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Spleen/virology ; West Nile Fever/diagnosis/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {An indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFA) was developed to detect West Nile virus (WNV) antigens in tissues from avian species. The test samples used in the study consisted of 100 sets of tissues from dead crows that had been collected during the 2001 surveillance in Connecticut. The test tissues were punctured with a fine point Dacron cotton-tipped applicator and smeared in duplicate on 10-well diagnostic printed glass slides. Among several fixatives tested, 4% paraformaldehyde was the best. Reagent calibration for the IFA test was done in WNV-infected Vero cells and control uninfected Vero cells. Optimized antibody and fluorescent conjugate concentrations were then applied for the detection of WNV antigen on fixed tissue impression smears. Several tissues, including brain, heart, liver, kidney, and spleen were tested by the IFA test. The brain and heart seemed to be unsuitable for the test because of excessive background. Both virus isolation and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were used for validation, with the latter technique having a higher sensitivity. Therefore, IFA results were compared with RT-PCR results. The diagnostic sensitivity was 96.8% for liver, 96.4% for kidney, and 100% for spleen. The diagnostic specificity was 69% for liver, 95.3% for kidney and 95.8 for spleen. The IFA test performed best with spleen and kidney. The IFA test described here is a useful, practical, and rapid test for screening for WNV.}, }
@article {pmid17626486, year = {2007}, author = {Bunning, ML and Fox, PE and Bowen, RA and Komar, N and Chang, GJ and Speaker, TJ and Stephens, MR and Nemeth, N and Panella, NA and Langevin, SA and Gordy, P and Teehee, M and Bright, PR and Turell, MJ}, title = {DNA vaccination of the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) provides partial protection against lethal challenge with West Nile virus.}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {51}, number = {2}, pages = {573-577}, doi = {10.1637/0005-2086(2007)51[573:DVOTAC]2.0.CO;2}, pmid = {17626486}, issn = {0005-2086}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/immunology/mortality/*prevention &amp; control/*virology ; *Crows ; DNA, Viral/immunology ; Vaccines, DNA/*immunology ; West Nile Fever/immunology/mortality/prevention &amp; control/*veterinary ; West Nile Virus Vaccines/*immunology ; }, abstract = {The New York 1999 strain of West Nile virus (WNV) is nearly 100% fatal in the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos). We evaluated four WNV vaccine formulations in American crows, including intramuscular (i.m.) DNA vaccine, i.m. DNA vaccine with adjuvant, orally administered microencapsulated DNA vaccine, and i.m. killed vaccine. Neutralizing antibodies developed in approximately 80% of crows that received the DNA vaccine i.m. (with or without adjuvant), and in 44% that received the killed vaccine. However, no crows that received the oral microencapsulated DNA vaccine or the placebo developed WNV antibodies. All crows were challenged 10 wk after initial vaccination. No unvaccinated crows survived challenge, and survival rates were 44% (i.m. DNA vaccine), 60% (i.m. DNA vaccine with adjuvant), 0% (oral microencapsulated DNA vaccine), and 11% (killed vaccine). Peak viremia titers in the birds that survived were significantly lower as compared to titers in birds that died. Parenteral administration of a WNV DNA vaccine was associated with reduced mortality but did not provide sterile immunity.}, }
@article {pmid17624348, year = {2007}, author = {Schoech, SJ and Bowman, R and Bridge, ES and Boughton, RK}, title = {Baseline and acute levels of corticosterone in Florida Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens): effects of food supplementation, suburban habitat, and year.}, journal = {General and comparative endocrinology}, volume = {154}, number = {1-3}, pages = {150-160}, doi = {10.1016/j.ygcen.2007.05.027}, pmid = {17624348}, issn = {0016-6480}, mesh = {Animal Feed ; Animals ; Birds/*blood/*physiology ; Corticosterone/*blood ; *Diet ; *Dietary Supplements ; *Ecosystem ; Female ; Male ; Reproduction/physiology ; Stress, Physiological/blood/physiopathology ; Suburban Population ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Recent work has shown that Florida Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) living in suburban habitats, as well as birds that reside in a natural habitat (hereafter referred to as wildland birds) provided supplemental food during the pre-breeding period, have lower baseline corticosterone (CORT) levels than nonsupplemented wildland birds, suggesting that predictable and abundant foods can lower stress levels. Here, we investigate whether the acute CORT response to capture stress reflects our earlier findings. During the pre-breeding seasons in 2004 and 2005 we captured over 200 Florida Scrub-Jays and collected four blood samples from each bird over a 30 min time period. We compared hormonal and morphometric data from birds in four treatment groups: wildland birds that were provided with supplemental food during the pre-breeding period, wildland birds that were provided with supplemental food during the winter and pre-breeding period, nonsupplemented wildland birds, and suburban birds that effectively have access to ad libitum human-source food year-round. Suburban birds had lower baseline levels, and a more acute initial CORT response (i.e., rate of increase) than wildland birds, but we did not observe any differences among the treatment groups of wildland birds. Baseline CORT concentrations were unusually low across treatments in 2005, a year that was characterized by increased adult body mass, superior body condition, and a high fledgling success rate, all of which suggest favorable environmental conditions. Thus, abundant or more reliable food sources in 2005 may have overwhelmed any potential benefits of supplemental feeding and explain the absence of any strong experimental effects on CORT for that year.}, }
@article {pmid17622563, year = {2007}, author = {Pons, J and Pausas, JG}, title = {Acorn dispersal estimated by radio-tracking.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {153}, number = {4}, pages = {903-911}, pmid = {17622563}, issn = {0029-8549}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Quercus ; *Radio ; *Seeds ; }, abstract = {Bird-dispersed seeds are difficult to track, especially in the case of long-distance dispersal events. To estimate the oak dispersal distance and the seed shadow generated by the European jay (Garrulus glandarius), we inserted radio-transmitters in 239 acorns, placed them in bird-feeders and then located them by radio-tracking. Using this methodology we located the exact caching site of 94 Quercus ilex and 54 Q. suber acorns and determined the caching habitat characteristics (vegetation type, distance, spatial distribution). The results show that: (1) there is no differences in the dispersal distance distribution between the different acorn species or sizes, (2) dispersal distances range from approximately 3 m up to approximately 550 m (mean = 68.6 m; median = 49.2 m), (3) recently abandoned fields and forest tracks were the sites preferred by jays to cache acorns, whereas fields and shrublands were avoided and (4) seed shadows showed acorn aggregation zones (i.e. clusters of caches) close to the feeder as well as isolated caches at longer distances. The results also suggest that radio-transmitters are a cheap and reliable way to determine seed shadows and quantify both seed dispersal and post-dispersal seed predation for medium to large seeds.}, }
@article {pmid17620633, year = {2007}, author = {Molaei, G and Andreadis, TG and Armstrong, PM and Bueno, R and Dennett, JA and Real, SV and Sargent, C and Bala, A and Randle, Y and Guzman, H and Travassos da Rosa, A and Wuithiranyagool, T and Tesh, RB}, title = {Host feeding pattern of Culex quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae) and its role in transmission of West Nile virus in Harris County, Texas.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {77}, number = {1}, pages = {73-81}, pmid = {17620633}, issn = {0002-9637}, support = {N01-AI25489/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; U50/CCU6806-01-1//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/virology ; Cats/virology ; Culex/*virology ; Dogs/virology ; Feeding Behavior ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; Mosquito Control ; Texas ; West Nile Fever/prevention &amp; control/*transmission ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {The vertebrate hosts of 672 blood-engorged Culex quinquefasciatus Say, collected in Harris County, Texas, during 2005, were identified by nucleotide sequencing PCR products of the cytochrome b gene. Analysis revealed that 39.1% had acquired blood from birds, 52.5% from mammals, and 8.3% were mixed avian and mammalian blood meals. Most frequent vertebrate hosts were dog (41.0%), mourning dove (18.3%), domestic cat (8.8%), white-winged dove (4.3%), house sparrow (3.2%), house finch (3.0%), gray catbird (3.0%), and American robin (2.5%). Results are interpreted in conjunction with concurrent avian and mosquito West Nile virus (WNV) surveillance activities in Harris County. We conclude that Cx. quinquefasciatus is an opportunistic feeder and principal mosquito vector of WNV in this metropolitan area; however, transmission by other mosquito species or by other modes of infection, such as ingestion, must account for the high WNV infection rates among local blue jays and American crows.}, }
@article {pmid17617432, year = {2007}, author = {Jia, Y and Moudy, RM and Dupuis, AP and Ngo, KA and Maffei, JG and Jerzak, GV and Franke, MA and Kauffman, EB and Kramer, LD}, title = {Characterization of a small plaque variant of West Nile virus isolated in New York in 2000.}, journal = {Virology}, volume = {367}, number = {2}, pages = {339-347}, pmid = {17617432}, issn = {0042-6822}, support = {N01AI25490/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI050758/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI050758-01/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; N01 AI25490/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aedes/virology ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/virology ; Chlorocebus aethiops ; Crows/virology ; *Genetic Variation ; Insect Vectors/physiology/virology ; New York/epidemiology ; Temperature ; Vero Cells ; Virus Replication/*physiology ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*virology ; West Nile virus/classification/*genetics/physiology ; }, abstract = {A small-plaque variant (SP) of West Nile virus (WNV) was isolated in Vero cell culture from kidney tissue of an American crow collected in New York in 2000. The in vitro growth of the SP and parental (WT) strains was characterized in mammalian (Vero), avian (DF-1 and PDE), and mosquito (C6/36) cells. The SP variant replicated less efficiently than did the WT in Vero cells. In avian cells, SP growth was severely restricted at high temperatures, suggesting that the variant is temperature sensitive. In mosquito cells, growth of SP and WT was similar, but in vivo in Culex pipiens (L.) there were substantial differences. Relative to WT, SP exhibited reduced replication following intrathoracic inoculation and lower infection, dissemination, and transmission rates following oral infection. Analysis of the full length sequence of the SP variant identified sequence differences which led to only two amino acid substitutions relative to WT, prM P54S and NS2A V61A.}, }
@article {pmid17613393, year = {2007}, author = {Koller, A and Meissner, SA and Podella, M and Fiedler, R}, title = {Orthotic management of Charcot feet after external fixation surgery.}, journal = {Clinics in podiatric medicine and surgery}, volume = {24}, number = {3}, pages = {583-99, xi}, doi = {10.1016/j.cpm.2007.03.012}, pmid = {17613393}, issn = {0891-8422}, mesh = {Adult ; Arthropathy, Neurogenic/*surgery/therapy ; Combined Modality Therapy ; Equipment Design ; *External Fixators ; Female ; Foot/*surgery ; Humans ; Orthotic Devices ; Surgical Procedures, Operative/methods ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {The authors use a total contact cast (TCC), Charcot restraint orthotic walker (CROW), or prefabricated diabetic walker (DW) for the treatment of neuroarthropathy, depending on the medical, social, and economic circumstances. There is not one single orthosis for the treatment of Charcot feet, but there are several models with advantages and disadvantages the physician should be aware of. In a retrospective study of 200 Charcot feet, the ankle foot orthosis (AFO) built in the authors' workshop turned out to be an efficient and comfortable appliance for orthotic treatment after reconstructive surgery. They prefer this type of orthosis because of its versatility and its safe application in a compliant patient.}, }
@article {pmid17582463, year = {2007}, author = {Fang, L and Zheng, M and Zhang, B and Gao, L and Liu, W and Zhao, X}, title = {Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans in eggs of eight avian species from Dongting Lake, China.}, journal = {Chemosphere}, volume = {69}, number = {3}, pages = {411-421}, doi = {10.1016/j.chemosphere.2007.04.079}, pmid = {17582463}, issn = {0045-6535}, mesh = {Animals ; Benzofurans/*analysis ; China ; *Eggs ; Polychlorinated Dibenzodioxins/*analogs &amp; derivatives/analysis ; Polymers/*analysis ; Quality Control ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Concentrations of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and dibenzofurans (PCDFs) were determined in eggs of eight avian species collected from Dongting Lake of China to assess residue levels, accumulation patterns, and toxic potential in different avian species. Concentrations of total 2,3,7,8-substituted PCDD/Fs were in the range of 10.8-182pgg(-1) lipid weight. Eggs of great egret and lesser pied kingfisher contained higher levels of PCDD/Fs than eggs of other species, indicating the specific exposure and accumulation of PCDD/Fs relating to feeding habits and the life span. PCDD/Fs congener patterns varied among species. The patterns of PCDD/Fs in the eggs may be influenced by feeding habits, specific elimination, and metabolism. In general, concentrations of PCDDs were higher than those of PCDFs in avian eggs. On basis of lipid weight, total 2,3,7,8-TCDD toxic equivalents (TEQs) calculated based on the WHO TEFs for birds ranged from 2.04 to 42.0pgg(-1); and on basis of wet weight, total WHO-TEQs ranged from 0.19 to 1.59pgg(-1). 2,3,7,8-TCDF, 2,3,4,7,8-PeCDF, 2,3,7,8-TCDD, 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDD were the major contributors to TEQ concentration in most avian eggs, whereas 1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDD also accounted for a major portion of TEQs in eggs of azure-winged magpie. Values of TEQs in avian eggs were lower than toxic threshold values, implying risk reduction and natural restoration of PCDD/Fs contamination in Dongting Lake region.}, }
@article {pmid17574711, year = {2007}, author = {Llewellyn, P and Northway, R}, title = {The views and experiences of learning disability nurses concerning their advocacy education.}, journal = {Nurse education today}, volume = {27}, number = {8}, pages = {955-963}, doi = {10.1016/j.nedt.2007.02.015}, pmid = {17574711}, issn = {0260-6917}, mesh = {Assertiveness ; *Attitude of Health Personnel ; Clinical Competence/standards ; Curriculum/standards ; Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate/standards ; Education, Nursing, Continuing/standards ; Female ; Focus Groups ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*nursing ; Male ; Needs Assessment ; Nurse's Role/psychology ; Nursing Education Research ; Nursing Methodology Research ; Nursing Staff/*education/organization &amp; administration/psychology ; Nursing Theory ; *Patient Advocacy ; Prejudice ; Qualitative Research ; Self Efficacy ; Social Support ; Specialties, Nursing/*education/organization &amp; administration ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Wales ; }, abstract = {A mixed methods project [Llewellyn, P., 2005. An investigation into the advocacy role of the learning disability nurse. University of Glamorgan, unpublished PhD Thesis] investigated the advocacy role of learning disability nurses. This paper discusses the section concerned with nurses' advocacy education. Focus groups, interviews and a questionnaire survey enabled nurses from a wide range of grades, seniority and experience to explore their received education in advocacy and their educational requirements concerning their advocacy role. Findings revealed that nurses' received education in advocacy varied according to the syllabus under which they qualified, with those whose education was influenced by the 1979 Jay Report having the highest incidence of advocacy training. Many learning disability nurses who had received theoretical education did not feel confident to advocate for their clients. Many were also unsure of their ability to access independent advocacy services and when it was permissible to do this. Nurse informants expressed a need for ongoing support and training in advocacy relating to The Human Rights Act (1998) and The Disability Discrimination Act (1995); and also specifically in relation to advocacy for clients within their own work area. Most nurses had definite ideas regarding how and by whom their advocacy education and training should be provided.}, }
@article {pmid17572150, year = {2008}, author = {Mohapatra, BR and Broersma, K and Mazumder, A}, title = {Differentiation of fecal Escherichia coli from poultry and free-living birds by (GTG)5-PCR genomic fingerprinting.}, journal = {International journal of medical microbiology : IJMM}, volume = {298}, number = {3-4}, pages = {245-252}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijmm.2007.03.019}, pmid = {17572150}, issn = {1618-0607}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/microbiology ; Anseriformes/microbiology ; Bacterial Typing Techniques ; Birds/*microbiology ; DNA Fingerprinting/*methods ; Escherichia coli/*classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Feces/*microbiology ; Genome, Bacterial ; Hawks/microbiology ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/methods ; Poultry/*microbiology ; Songbirds/microbiology ; Water Pollution/analysis ; }, abstract = {Determination of the non-point sources of fecal pollution is essential for the assessment of potential public health risk and development of appropriate management practices for prevention of further contamination. Repetitive extragenic palindromic-PCR coupled with (GTG)(5) primer [(GTG)(5)-PCR] was performed on 573 Escherichia coli isolates obtained from the feces of poultry (chicken, duck and turkey) and free-living (Canada goose, hawk, magpie, seagull and songbird) birds to evaluate the efficacy of (GTG)(5)-PCR genomic fingerprinting in the prediction of the correct source of fecal pollution. A discriminant analysis with the jack-knife algorithm of (GTG)(5)-PCR DNA fingerprints revealed that 95%, 94.1%, 93.2%, 84.6%, 79.7%, 76.7%, 75.3% and 70.7% of magpie, hawk, turkey, seagull, Canada goose, chicken, duck and songbird fecal E. coli isolates classified into the correct host source, respectively. The results of this study indicate that (GTG)(5)-PCR can be considered to be a complementary molecular tool for the rapid determination of E. coli isolates identity and tracking the non-point sources of fecal pollution.}, }
@article {pmid19093443, year = {2007}, author = {Abu-Ziada, ME}, title = {Ecological studies on the macrohydrophytes in Egypt II. Ludwigia stolonifera (Guill. and Perr.) P.H. Raven.}, journal = {Pakistan journal of biological sciences : PJBS}, volume = {10}, number = {12}, pages = {2025-2038}, doi = {10.3923/pjbs.2007.2025.2038}, pmid = {19093443}, issn = {1028-8880}, mesh = {Animals ; Biomass ; Cattle ; Ecosystem ; Egypt ; Environmental Pollutants/pharmacokinetics ; Manure/analysis ; Metals, Heavy/pharmacokinetics ; Onagraceae/*growth &amp; development/metabolism ; }, abstract = {The present study contributes information about the environmental factors controlling the distribution, variation in standing crop phytomass and chemical compositional change of Ludwigia stolonifera. Also, treatment with cattle manure, as source of organic waste, was made to evaluate the response of the plant to the environmental pollution. The sandy textured bottom sediments of Ludwigia habitat at Damira irrigating canal had higher percentages of organic carbon and total soluble salts in spring than in the other seasons while the overlying water was characterized by low total soluble salts. The phytomass and assimilating surface area were increased in spring and summer months and appeared to decline in winter. The phytochemical constituents were highly concentrated during August. As common in hydrophyte, the plant organs of L. stolonifera are characterized by abundance of aerenchyma, absence of cork cells and reduction of vascular tissues. Addition of cattle manure to the aquatic habitat of Ludwigia plant resulted in an increase of organic carbon, salinity, chloronity and in a decrease of pH value of hydrosoil and water. Heavy metals accumulation showed considerable increase due to application of cattle manure and this appeared to be a reflection to the increased concentrations of these metals in the environment.}, }
@article {pmid17563341, year = {2007}, author = {Dik, MG and Jonker, C and Comijs, HC and Deeg, DJ and Kok, A and Yaffe, K and Penninx, BW}, title = {Contribution of metabolic syndrome components to cognition in older individuals.}, journal = {Diabetes care}, volume = {30}, number = {10}, pages = {2655-2660}, doi = {10.2337/dc06-1190}, pmid = {17563341}, issn = {1935-5548}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Biomarkers/blood ; C-Reactive Protein/metabolism ; *Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/epidemiology ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Inflammation/blood ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Mental Status Schedule ; Metabolic Syndrome/epidemiology/*psychology ; Netherlands/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Recent evidence suggests that the metabolic syndrome and inflammation affect cognitive decline in old age and that they reinforce each other. However, it is not known what the roles of the individual components of the metabolic syndrome on cognition are.<br><br>RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: The sample consisted of 1,183 participants in the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam who were aged 65-88 years. Metabolic syndrome (U.S. National Cholesterol Education Program definition) and its individual components and the inflammatory markers C-reactive protein (CRP) and alpha1-antichymotrypsin (ACT) were assessed. Cognitive assessments included general cognition (Mini-Mental State Examination), memory (verbal learning test), fluid intelligence (Raven's Matrices), and information processing speed (coding task).<br><br>RESULTS: Of the sample, 36.3% had metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome was significantly associated with all cognitive measures (P < 0.05). Of the individual components, hyperglycemia was most strongly and significantly associated with cognitive function (multivariate adjusted models; B values, indicating differences in scores between both groups, ranging from -0.38 to -1.21). There was a significant interaction between metabolic syndrome and inflammation on cognition (P < 0.01-0.09). Metabolic syndrome was negatively associated with cognition in subjects with high inflammation (highest tertile for both CRP and ACT; B values ranging from -0.86 to -1.94, P < 0.05), whereas an association was absent in subjects with low inflammation (B values ranging from -0.10 to -0.70).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Subjects with metabolic syndrome showed poorer cognitive performance than subjects without metabolic syndrome, especially those with high levels of inflammation. Hyperglycemia was the main contributor of the association of metabolic syndrome with cognition.}, }
@article {pmid17562522, year = {2007}, author = {Rozzini, L and Chilovi, BV and Conti, M and Bertoletti, E and Delrio, I and Trabucchi, M and Padovani, A}, title = {Conversion of amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment to dementia of Alzheimer type is independent to memory deterioration.}, journal = {International journal of geriatric psychiatry}, volume = {22}, number = {12}, pages = {1217-1222}, doi = {10.1002/gps.1816}, pmid = {17562522}, issn = {0885-6230}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Alzheimer Disease/*diagnosis ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis ; Disease Progression ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Memory ; Memory Disorders/diagnosis ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Regression Analysis ; Speech Disorders/diagnosis ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Mild Cognitive Impairment defines a transitional stage between normal ageing and dementia, and reflects the clinical situation where a person has memory complaints and objective evidence of cognitive impairment but no evidence of dementia. To plan the care of patients with MCI, it is important to predict as accurately as possible potential risk factors modulating the conversion to AD.<br><br>AIM: To investigate the risk factors associated of conversion to dementia of Alzheimer type (AD) for subjects with amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment (aMCI).<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: One hundred nineteen subjects consecutively recruited who met the operational criteria for aMCI (with or without deficits in other cognitive domains). They underwent multidimensional assessment and a neuropsychological battery at baseline and at follow-up, after 1 year. Diagnosis for dementia was based on a deficit in two or more cognitive domains severe enough to affect the participant functional abilities. Subjects converted to AD over time were classified as Demented; subjects that remained unchanged, or became cognitively normal during follow-up, were defined as Stable.<br><br>RESULTS: Demented MCI (N = 40; 33.6%) were older (mean age 73.5 +/- 8.5 vs. 69.2 +/- 7.0; p = 0.006) when compared to Stable (N = 79; 66.4) and their global cognitive performances, at baseline, were more compromised when assessed by ADAS-Cog (mean score 10.7 +/- 3.9 vs 6.7 +/- 3.4; p = .000) and by MMSE (mean score 26.1 +/- 1.9 vs. 27.3 +/- 1.8; p = 0.002). Demented were similarly compromised in basic activities of daily living (BADL mean 0.2 +/- 0.4 vs 0.1 +/- 0.3 functions lost; p = NS) but more compromised on instrumental daily functions (IADL mean 0.7 +/- 0.8 vs. 0.1 +/- 0.5 functions lost; p = 0.001). The presence of white matter lesions (WML) on CT or MRI was more pronounced in Demented group (p = 0.02). After 1 year; Demented worsened on phonemic verbal fluency (PFL) (p = 0.009), Raven's coloured matrices (p = 0.003), Trail Making test A and B (p = 0.008 and p = 0.007 respectively) and in Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) (p =0 .000) respect to Stable. Logistic regression analysis revealed that ADAS-Cog basal score, Trail Making B, IADL but not memory deterioration were significantly associated to the conversion to AD.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In subjects with aMCI poor global cognitive performance at baseline, the worsening on executive functions and on functional status but not the worsening on memory functions are independently associated with the conversion to dementia of Alzheimer type at 1 year, follow-up.}, }
@article {pmid17561911, year = {2007}, author = {Toon, A and Mather, PB and Baker, AM and Durrant, KL and Hughes, JM}, title = {Pleistocene refugia in an arid landscape: analysis of a widely distributed Australian passerine.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {16}, number = {12}, pages = {2525-2541}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2007.03289.x}, pmid = {17561911}, issn = {0962-1083}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Australia ; Base Sequence ; *Climate ; DNA Primers/genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; *Demography ; *Ecosystem ; Evolution, Molecular ; *Genetic Variation ; *Genetics, Population ; Geography ; Microsatellite Repeats/genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Passeriformes/*genetics/physiology ; Population Dynamics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {While many studies have documented the effect that glacial cycles have had on northern hemisphere species, few have attempted to study the associated effect of aridification at low latitudes in the southern hemisphere. We investigated the past effects that cyclic aridification may have had on the population structure and history of a widespread endemic Australian bird species, the Australian magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen). One thousand one hundred and sixty-six samples from across its native range were analysed for mitochondrial control region sequence variation and variation at six microsatellite loci. Analysis of mitochondrial control region sequence data indicated monophyletic clades that were geographically congruent with an eastern and western region. The contemporary distribution of east and west clades is nonoverlapping but in close proximity. Populations were estimated to have diverged in the Pleistocene around 36,000 years ago. The putative Carpentarian and Nullarbor arid barriers appear to be associated with the divergence between east and west mainland populations. Nested clade analysis indicated a signature of range expansion in the eastern region suggesting movement possibly inland and northward subsequent to the last period of aridity. The island population of Tasmania was of very recent origin, possibly since sea levels rose 16,000 years ago. Given the east-west structure, there was no congruence between morphology and recent history of this species indicating a lack of support for morphological taxa. Overall mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite variation suggest that increasing aridity and Pleistocene refugia played a role in structuring populations of the Australian magpie; however, the dispersal ability and generalist habitat requirements may have facilitated the movement of magpies into an almost contiguous modern distribution across the continent. This study supports the idea that Pleistocene aridification played an important role in structuring intraspecific variation in low latitudinal southern hemisphere avian species.}, }
@article {pmid17555266, year = {2007}, author = {Davidson, SE and Ibbott, GS and Prado, KL and Dong, L and Liao, Z and Followill, DS}, title = {Accuracy of two heterogeneity dose calculation algorithms for IMRT in treatment plans designed using an anthropomorphic thorax phantom.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {34}, number = {5}, pages = {1850-1857}, doi = {10.1118/1.2727789}, pmid = {17555266}, issn = {0094-2405}, support = {CA010953/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; CA081647/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Humans ; *Phantoms, Imaging ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Thorax/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {With the advent of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), the inclusion of heterogeneity corrections is further complicated by the conformal delivery of many small beams forming steep dose gradients. Radiation treatment planning has evolved to take into account even small changes in tissue density so that the dose to tumor can be further optimized. However, different treatment planning systems incorporate different heterogeneity correction algorithms, and it is unclear whether any of these algorithms are superior to others in terms of accurately predicting delivered radiation doses relative to measurement in a clinical setting. The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of heterogeneity dose calculations from two widely used IMRT treatment planning systems (Pinnacle and Corvus) against measurement. These two systems handle heterogeneity dose corrections by means of a collapsed-cone convolution superposition algorithm and a finite-size pencil-beam algorithm with one-dimensional depth scaling correction, respectively. Treatment plans were generated by each system using an anthropomorphic thorax phantom, routine clinical lung tumor constraints, and a common prescribed dose. Dose measurements made by thermoluminescent detectors (TLDs) and radiochromic film positioned within the phantom's lung and offset tumor insert were then compared with the calculated values. The collapsed cone convolution superposition dose calculation algorithm provided clinically acceptable results (+/-5% of the normalization dose or 3 mm distance to agreement) in the designed treatment plan and delivery. The pencil-beam algorithm with an effective pathlength correction showed reasonable agreement within the gross tumor volume, overestimated dose within a majority of the planning target volume, and underestimated the extent of the penumbral broadening, yielding only about 60% accuracy when judged by the above criterion. Even judged by a more generous criterion (+/-7% /7 mm), the results were clinically unfavorable (at only about 80% accuracy). To ascertain the dose in heterogeneous regions such as the tumor-lung interface and the peripheral lung dose near the tumor, the superposition convolution algorithm that accounts for lateral scatter and electron transport should be used. The use of the pencil-beam algorithm with only an effective pathlength correction may result in the dose to the target being overestimated. As a result, a full understanding of any treatment planning system's heterogeneity algorithm is required prior to clinical implementation.}, }
@article {pmid17550769, year = {2007}, author = {Roberts, WA}, title = {Mental time travel: animals anticipate the future.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {17}, number = {11}, pages = {R418-20}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2007.04.010}, pmid = {17550769}, issn = {0960-9822}, mesh = {Animals ; Appetite ; Cues ; Feeding Behavior/*psychology ; *Motivation ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Time Perception ; }, abstract = {Recent behavioral experiments with scrub jays and nonhuman primates indicate they can anticipate and plan for future needs not currently experienced. Combined with accumulating evidence for episodic-like memory in animals, these studies suggest that some animals can mentally time travel into both the past and future.}, }
@article {pmid17546177, year = {2007}, author = {Fussell, DP and Dignam, MM}, title = {Spontaneous emission in coupled microcavity-waveguide structures at the band edge.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {32}, number = {11}, pages = {1527-1529}, doi = {10.1364/ol.32.001527}, pmid = {17546177}, issn = {0146-9592}, abstract = {We examine spontaneous emission and photon dynamics in a microcavity coupled to a coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) in a photonic crystal. We present an efficient tight-binding approach to obtain the Green tensor in large, arbitrary systems of coupled microcavities. We use this approach to examine spontaneous emission when the microcavity is strongly coupled to the CROW at the band center and band edge. We confirm the validity of weak-coupling theories for microcavities resonant at band center and obtain strong peak splitting in the previously inaccessible case of band-edge coupled structures.}, }
@article {pmid17543417, year = {2007}, author = {Cserjési, R and Molnár, D and Luminet, O and Lénárd, L}, title = {Is there any relationship between obesity and mental flexibility in children?.}, journal = {Appetite}, volume = {49}, number = {3}, pages = {675-678}, doi = {10.1016/j.appet.2007.04.001}, pmid = {17543417}, issn = {0195-6663}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; *Attention/physiology ; Body Mass Index ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/complications/*diagnosis ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Obesity/etiology/*psychology ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {Cognitive profiles of 12 schoolboys with obesity were compared with their peers with normal weight. For the cognitive assessment five clinical tasks were selected: digit span memory, Raven's progressive matrices (intelligence), semantic verbal fluency, D2 attention endurance and Wisconsin card sorting test. We found no differences in memory, intelligence and verbal fluency between the two groups. Children with obesity performed worse on D2 and Wisconsin tests. Correlations confirmed relationships between body weight, body mass index, attention and Wisconsin measured perseveration in set-shifting. This suggests that childhood obesity involves cognitive deficits in shifting and attention abilities.}, }
@article {pmid17539264, year = {2007}, author = {Pusapukdepob, J and Sawangwong, P and Pulket, C and Satraphat, D and Saowakontha, S and Panutrakul, S}, title = {Health risk assessment of villagers who live near a lead mining area: a case study of Klity village, Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand.}, journal = {The Southeast Asian journal of tropical medicine and public health}, volume = {38}, number = {1}, pages = {168-177}, pmid = {17539264}, issn = {0125-1562}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Environmental Exposure/*adverse effects/analysis ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Lead/*analysis/blood/*toxicity ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Mining ; Risk Assessment ; Rural Population ; Thailand ; Tooth ; }, abstract = {This was a cross-sectional study aimed at assessing environmental lead exposure and its association with blood lead levels, teeth lead levels and IQ of the inhibitants who live near lead mining in Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand. Two hundred fifteen villagers from 6 villages participated in this study. Exposed and non-exposed villagers were asked to perform IQ tests based on Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. Environmental, blood and tooth samples were collected and analyzed to determine an association with the IQ level. The results showed that soil, vegetables (mint, bitter gourd, Chinese watercress, basil and turmeric) and meat (fish and shellfish) had lead concentrations above the recommended standard. Each person in the exposed group had blood and tooth lead levels higher than 10 microg/dl and 10 microg/g, respectively. The mean IQ of the exposed group was 82.70 (p < 0.05). The blood and tooth levels in the non-exposed group were lower than 10 microg/dl and 10 microg/g, respectively. The mean IQ scores in the non-exposed group was 96.14 (p < 0.05). The health risk in the low IQ score exposed group was 5.6 times more than the non-exposed group (p < 0.05). The IQ scores of the exposed group were significantly inversly associated with the blood lead and tooth lead levels (r = 0.397 and 0.129, respectively, p < 0.05). The children in this study who were exposed to environmental lead had an accumulation of lead in their bodies. This resulted in a great impact on intellectual development. The results reveal that blood lead levels are the best predictor of lead exposure, and the tooth lead levels may provide epidemiological evidence for chronic toxicity. Populations with blood lead or tooth lead levels higher than normal limit should be treated with chelation therapy and health education.}, }
@article {pmid17537263, year = {2007}, author = {Smedley, RC and Patterson, JS and Miller, R and Massey, JP and Wise, AG and Maes, RK and Wu, P and Kaneene, JB and Kiupel, M}, title = {Sensitivity and specificity of monoclonal and polyclonal immunohistochemical staining for West Nile virus in various organs from American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos).}, journal = {BMC infectious diseases}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {49}, pmid = {17537263}, issn = {1471-2334}, mesh = {Animals ; *Antibodies, Monoclonal ; Crows/*virology ; Diagnosis ; Immunohistochemistry/methods/*veterinary ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Sentinel Surveillance/veterinary ; Specimen Handling ; United States ; West Nile virus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Based on results of earlier studies, brain, heart and kidney are most commonly used for West Nile virus (WNV) detection in avian species. Both monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies have been used for the immunohistochemical diagnosis of WNV in these species. Thus far, no studies have been performed to compare the sensitivity and specificity of monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies in detecting WNV in American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos). Our objectives were to determine 1) the comparative sensitivities of monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies for immunohistochemical (IHC) diagnosis of WNV infection in free-ranging American crows, 2) which organ(s) is/are most suitable for IHC-based diagnosis of WNV, and 3) how real-time RT-PCR on RNA extracted from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues compared to IHC for the diagnosis of WNV infection.<br><br>METHODS: Various combinations, depending on tissue availability, of sections of heart, kidney, brain, liver, lung, spleen, and small intestine from 85 free-ranging American crows were stained using a rabbit-polyclonal anti-WNV antibody as well as a monoclonal antibody directed against an epitope on Domain III of the E protein of WNV. The staining intensity and the extent of staining were determined for each organ using both antibodies. Real-time RT-PCR on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues from all 85 crows was performed.<br><br>RESULTS: Forty-three crows were IHC-positive in at least one of the examined organs with the polyclonal antibody, and of these, only 31 were positive when IHC was performed with the monoclonal antibody. Real-time RT-PCR amplified WNV-specific sequences from tissue extracts of the same 43 crows that were IHC-positive using the polyclonal antibody. All other 42 crows tested negative for WNV with real-time PCR and IHC staining. Both antibodies had a test specificity of 100% when compared to PCR results. The test sensitivity of monoclonal antibody-based IHC staining was only 72%, compared to 100% when using the polyclonal antibody.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The most sensitive, readily identified, positively staining organs for IHC are the kidney, liver, lung, spleen, and small intestine. Real-time RT-PCR and IHC staining using a polyclonal antibody on sections of these tissues are highly sensitive diagnostic tests for the detection of WNV in formalin-fixed tissues of American crows.}, }
@article {pmid17536365, year = {2007}, author = {Gleiser, RM and Mackay, AJ and Roy, A and Yates, MM and Vaeth, RH and Faget, GM and Folsom, AE and Augustine, WF and Wells, RA and Perich, MJ}, title = {West Nile virus surveillance in East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana.}, journal = {Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {29-36}, doi = {10.2987/8756-971X(2007)23[29:WNVSIE]2.0.CO;2}, pmid = {17536365}, issn = {8756-971X}, mesh = {Animals ; Arboviruses ; Birds/*virology ; Culex/*virology ; Humans ; Louisiana/epidemiology ; Time Factors ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/transmission ; *West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) was detected for the first time in Louisiana in the fall of 2001. Surveillance data collected from East Baton Rouge Parish in 2002 were examined to establish baseline data on WNV activity, to support the current design of disease surveillance programs, and to target vector control efforts in the parish. The first indications of WNV activity were from a dead Northern Cardinal collected in February and from a live male cardinal sampled on 14 March. In mosquito pools, WNV was first detected on June 11. The onset of the first human case and the first detection of WNV in sentinel chickens occurred concurrently on June 24. The number of reported human cases and minimum infection rates in mosquitoes peaked in July. WNV prevalence in wild birds increased in late August and was highest in December. WNV-positive wild birds and mosquito pools were detected an average of 31 and 59 days in advance of the onset date of reported human cases, respectively, within 5 km of the residence of a human case. Antibodies to WNV were detected in sera from 7 (Northern Cardinal, House Sparrow, Northern Mockingbird, Blue Jay, Hermit Thrush, Yellow-rumped Warbler, and White-throated Sparrow) of the 42 wild bird species tested. Wild bird serology indicated WNV activity during the winter. Out of 18 mosquito species tested, the only species found positive for WNV was Culex quinquefasciatus, a result suggesting that this species was the primary epizootic/epidemic vector.}, }
@article {pmid17535028, year = {2007}, author = {Fuss, M and Salter, BJ}, title = {Intensity-modulated radiosurgery: improving dose gradients and maximum dose using post inverse-optimization interactive dose shaping.}, journal = {Technology in cancer research &amp; treatment}, volume = {6}, number = {3}, pages = {197-204}, doi = {10.1177/153303460700600307}, pmid = {17535028}, issn = {1533-0346}, mesh = {Brain Neoplasms/secondary/*surgery ; Humans ; Radiosurgery/*methods ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated/*methods ; *Software ; }, abstract = {Intensity-modulated radiosurgery (IMRS) for brain metastases and arterio-venous malformations (AVM) using a serial tomotherapy system (Nomos Corp., Cranberry Township, PA) has been delivered in >150 cases over the last 5 years. A new software tool provided within the Corvus inverse planning software (ActiveRx) allows for post inverse planning re-optimization and individualization of the dose distribution. We analyzed this tool with respect to increasing the steepness of the dose gradient and in-target dose inhomogeneity while maintaining conformity. Fifteen clinically delivered IMRS plans for solitary brain metastases provided the basis for this analysis. The clinical IMRS plans were copied and the ActiveRx module was opened. The toolset in ActiveRx includes a hot spot eraser, a pencil tool to redefine isodose lines and a drag and drop tool, allowing reshaping of existing isodose lines. To assess changes in the steepness of the dose gradient and dose homogeneity, the 100%, 90%, 50% and 25% isodose volume, the volume of the target, maximum dose and mean dose to the target were recorded. We also recorded total monitor units and calculated treatment delivery times. Target volumes ranged from 0.6 to 14.1 cm(3) (mean/median 3.9/1.8 cm(3)). Mean RTOG conformity index (CI) of plans clinically delivered was 1.23+/-0.31; mean homogeneity index (HI) was 115+/-5%. After using the ActiveRx tool-set, the mean CI was slightly improved to 1.14+/-0.1, with an associated increase in HI to 141+/-10%. The average, respective Ian Paddick CI for the 100%, 90% 50% and 25% isodose lines were 0.79 vs. 0.83, 0.44 vs. 0.59, 0.12 vs. 0.19, and 0.04 vs. 0.07, representing significant improvements after using ActiveRx post-optimization. Total MU were reduced by a mean of 12.3% using ActiveRx, shortening estimated treatment delivery times by 3.2 minutes on average. A post inverse planning optimization tool for IMRS plans allowed for statistically significant improvements in the steepness of the dose gradient, and increased maximum and mean target doses compared to clinically delivered plans that were already considered excellent. Gains were especially pronounced in the reduction of normal brain tissue included into the 90%, and 50% isodose lines. We have since made this process part of the clinical routine for all cranial IMRS procedures.}, }
@article {pmid17531054, year = {2007}, author = {Griesser, M and Nystrand, M and Eggers, S and Ekman, J}, title = {Impact of forestry practices on fitness correlates and population productivity in an open-nesting bird species.}, journal = {Conservation biology : the journal of the Society for Conservation Biology}, volume = {21}, number = {3}, pages = {767-774}, doi = {10.1111/j.1523-1739.2007.00675.x}, pmid = {17531054}, issn = {0888-8892}, mesh = {Animals ; Breeding ; Ecosystem ; Forestry/*methods ; *Passeriformes/physiology ; Population Density ; Sweden ; }, abstract = {In the boreal forests of Fennoscandia, over 99% of forest area has been altered by forestry practices, which has created forest with age structures and stand characteristics that differ from primary forest stands. Although many researchers have investigated how forestry affects species abundance, few have assessed how forestry practices affect fitness correlates of species living in altered habitats, and this has negatively affected management efforts. We experimentally addressed the effect of standard forestry practices on fitness correlates of an open-nesting, long-lived bird species typical to boreal forests of Eurasia, the Siberian Jay (Perisoreus infaustus). We used a before-after comparison of reproductive data on the level of territories and found that standard forestry practices had a strong negative effect on the breeding success of jays. Both partial thinning of territories and partial clearcutting of territories reduced future breeding success by a factor of 0.35. Forestry practices reduced territory occupancy. Thus, over the 15 years of the study, productivity of the affected population declined over 50% as a result of territory abandonment and reduced breeding success. Results of previous studies on Siberian Jays suggest that the strong effect of forest thinning on fitness is explained by the fact that most common predators of nests and adults are visually oriented and thus thinning makes prey and nests more visible to predators. The consequences of thinning we observed are likely to apply to a wide range of species that rely on understory to provide visual protection from predators. Thus, our results are important for the development of effective conservation management protocols and for the refinement of thinning practices.}, }
@article {pmid17518555, year = {2007}, author = {Mikolajczak, M and Luminet, O and Leroy, C and Roy, E}, title = {Psychometric properties of the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire: factor structure, reliability, construct, and incremental validity in a French-speaking population.}, journal = {Journal of personality assessment}, volume = {88}, number = {3}, pages = {338-353}, doi = {10.1080/00223890701333431}, pmid = {17518555}, issn = {0022-3891}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Psychological ; Adolescent ; Adult ; Belgium ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Psychometrics ; Social Behavior ; *Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {In this research, we investigated the psychometrical properties of the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (TEIQue, Petrides &amp; Furnham, 2003) in a French-speaking population. In summary, we found that (a) TEIQue scores were globally normally distributed and reliable; (b) the United Kingdom four-factor structure (well-being, self-control, emotionality, sociability) replicated in our data; (c) TEIQue scores were dependent on gender but relatively independent of age; (d) there was preliminary evidence of convergent/discriminant validity, with TEIQue scores being independent of nonverbal reasoning (Raven's [1976] matrices) but positively related to some personality dimensions (optimism, agreeableness, openness, conscientiousness) as well as inversely related to others (alexithymia, neuroticism); (e) there was also preliminary evidence of criterion validity, with TEIQue scores predicting depression, anxiety, and social support as well as future state affectivity and emotional reactivity in neutral and stressful situations; (f) TEIQue scores were susceptible to socially desirable responding; however, (g) TEIQue scores had incremental validity to predict emotional reactivity over and above social desirability, alexithymia, and the Five-factor model of personality. Such results constitute encouraging preliminary findings in favor of the use of the TEIQue.}, }
@article {pmid17507930, year = {2007}, author = {LaDeau, SL and Kilpatrick, AM and Marra, PP}, title = {West Nile virus emergence and large-scale declines of North American bird populations.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {447}, number = {7145}, pages = {710-713}, doi = {10.1038/nature05829}, pmid = {17507930}, issn = {1476-4687}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*mortality/*virology ; Birds/classification/*physiology/*virology ; Data Collection ; Maryland/epidemiology ; North America/epidemiology ; Population Density ; Songbirds/classification/physiology/virology ; Survival Rate ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/mortality/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Emerging infectious diseases present a formidable challenge to the conservation of native species in the twenty-first century. Diseases caused by introduced pathogens have had large impacts on species abundances, including the American chestnut, Hawaiian bird species and many amphibians. Changes in host population sizes can lead to marked shifts in community composition and ecosystem functioning. However, identifying the impacts of an introduced disease and distinguishing it from other forces that influence population dynamics (for example, climate) is challenging and requires abundance data that extend before and after the introduction. Here we use 26 yr of Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) data to determine the impact of West Nile virus (WNV) on 20 potential avian hosts across North America. We demonstrate significant changes in population trajectories for seven species from four families that concur with a priori predictions and the spatio-temporal intensity of pathogen transmission. The American crow population declined by up to 45% since WNV arrival, and only two of the seven species with documented impact recovered to pre-WNV levels by 2005. Our findings demonstrate the potential impacts of an invasive species on a diverse faunal assemblage across broad geographical scales, and underscore the complexity of subsequent community response.}, }
@article {pmid17504738, year = {2007}, author = {Rushton, JP and Bons, TA and Vernon, PA and Cvorović, J}, title = {Genetic and environmental contributions to population group differences on the Raven's Progressive Matrices estimated from twins reared together and apart.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {274}, number = {1619}, pages = {1773-1777}, pmid = {17504738}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Adult ; Child ; *Environment ; Humans ; Intelligence/*genetics/physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Minnesota ; Ontario ; *Problem Solving ; *Quantitative Trait, Heritable ; *Twins ; }, abstract = {We carried out two studies to test the hypothesis that genetic and environmental influences explain population group differences in general mental ability just as they do individual differences within a group. We estimated the heritability and environmentality of scores on the diagrammatic puzzles of the Raven's Coloured and/or Standard Progressive Matrices (CPM/SPM) from two independent twin samples and correlated these estimates with group differences on the same items. In Study 1, 199 pairs of 5- to 7-year-old monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic (DZ) twins reared together provided estimates of heritability and environmentality for 36 puzzles from the CPM. These estimates correlated with the differences between the twins and 94 Serbian Roma (both rs=0.32; Ns=36; ps<0.05). In Study 2, 152 pairs of adult MZ and DZ twins reared apart provided estimates of heritability and environmentality for 58 puzzles from the SPM. These estimates correlated with the differences among 11 diverse samples including (i) the reared-apart twins, (ii) another sample of Serbian Roma, and (iii) East Asian, White, South Asian, Coloured and Black high school and university students in South Africa. In 55 comparisons, group differences were more pronounced on the more heritable and on the more environmental items (mean rs=0.40 and 0.47, respectively; Ns=58; ps<0.05). After controlling for measurement reliability and variance in item pass rates, the heritabilities still correlated with the group differences, although the environmentalities did not. Puzzles found relatively difficult (or easy) by the twins were those found relatively difficult (or easy) by the others (mean r=0.87). These results suggest that population group differences are part of the normal variation expected within a universal human cognition.}, }
@article {pmid17499481, year = {2007}, author = {Tsukahara, K and Sugata, K and Osanai, O and Ohuchi, A and Miyauchi, Y and Takizawa, M and Hotta, M and Kitahara, T}, title = {Comparison of age-related changes in facial wrinkles and sagging in the skin of Japanese, Chinese and Thai women.}, journal = {Journal of dermatological science}, volume = {47}, number = {1}, pages = {19-28}, doi = {10.1016/j.jdermsci.2007.03.007}, pmid = {17499481}, issn = {0923-1811}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; *Asian People ; China ; Face/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Japan ; Middle Aged ; Skin Aging/*physiology ; Thailand ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Differences in skin aging features between Asians and Caucasians are commonly known, whereas little is known about such differences in various Asian populations.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: A survey was carried out in Tokyo, Shanghai and Bangkok to identify specific features of skin aging in each population and to evaluate whether our conventional photo scale is an appropriate tool for this type of comparative study.<br><br>METHODS: Eighty-seven women residing in Tokyo, 100 women residing in Shanghai, and 90 women residing in Bangkok were examined by a specialist. Facial wrinkles (forehead, glabella, upper eyelid, crow's feet, lower eyelid, cheek, nasolabial groove and mouth corner) and cheek sagging were evaluated using photo scales previously obtained from Japanese subjects. Comparisons were made according to 10-year age groups.<br><br>RESULTS: Women in Bangkok showed the most severe level of wrinkles, followed by those in Shanghai in the three groups. Significant differences were observed between Thai and Japanese women in the intensity of wrinkles at many facial sites. Chinese women had significantly more severe wrinkles in the area around the eyes compared to Japanese women, while Thai women had significantly more severe wrinkles in the lower halves of their faces compared to Chinese women. In cheek sagging scores, significant differences were observed between Japanese and Thai women in their 30s and 50s, but not between Japanese and Chinese women or between Chinese and Thai women in all age groups.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These results indicate variations in skin aging features among women from three Asian cities thereby suggesting the diversity of Asian skin. Our scaling method proved to be appropriate for facial wrinkles, but required modification to compare cheek sagging among Asian populations.}, }
@article {pmid17498715, year = {2007}, author = {Schoech, SJ and Bowman, R and Bridge, ES and Morgan, GM and Rensel, MA and Wilcoxen, TE and Boughton, RK}, title = {Corticosterone administration does not affect timing of breeding in Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens).}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {52}, number = {2}, pages = {191-196}, doi = {10.1016/j.yhbeh.2007.04.004}, pmid = {17498715}, issn = {0018-506X}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/blood/*physiology ; Corticosterone/blood/*pharmacology ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Feeding Behavior/drug effects ; Female ; Oviparity/drug effects ; Sexual Behavior, Animal/*drug effects ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Providing supplemental food to Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) causes a reliable advance in clutch initiation of 1 to 2 weeks. In some years, supplemental food appeared to not only advance laying date but also decrease baseline concentrations of corticosterone (CORT) relative to controls. The coincidence of low CORT levels and early breeding led us to hypothesize that CORT serves to communicate information about environmental conditions to the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which ultimately influences the timing of breeding. To test this hypothesis, we administered small oral doses of CORT three times each day to female breeders that were provisioned with supplemental food. We compared clutch initiation dates of the CORT-dosed females to females with supplementation but no exogenous CORT and to females with neither CORT nor supplemental food. CORT administration had a strong temporary effect on circulating CORT concentrations but clutch initiation did not differ between the two groups of supplemented birds, both of which laid eggs approximately 10 days earlier than nonsupplemented birds. Furthermore, during the year of our study we found no reduction in baseline CORT concentrations in our undosed supplemental groups, as had been observed in past studies.}, }
@article {pmid17498307, year = {2007}, author = {Foppa, IM and Spielman, A}, title = {Does reservoir host mortality enhance transmission of West Nile virus?.}, journal = {Theoretical biology &amp; medical modelling}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {17}, pmid = {17498307}, issn = {1742-4682}, support = {R01 AI052284/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; AI052284/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Computer Simulation ; Crows/virology ; Culicidae/virology ; Disease Reservoirs/*virology ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*mortality/*transmission/virology ; West Nile virus/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Since its 1999 emergence in New York City, West Nile virus (WNV) has become the most important and widespread cause of mosquito-transmitted disease in North America. Its sweeping spread from the Atlantic to the Pacific coast was accompanied by widespread mortality among wild birds, especially corvids. Only sporadic avian mortality had previously been associated with this infection in the Old World. Here, we examine the possibility that reservoir host mortality may intensify transmission, both by concentrating vector mosquitoes on remaining hosts and by preventing the accumulation of "herd immunity".<br><br>RESULTS: Inspection of the Ross-Macdonald expression of the basic reproductive number (R0) suggests that this quantity may increase with reservoir host mortality. Computer simulation confirms this finding and indicates that the level of virulence is positively associated with the numbers of infectious mosquitoes by the end of the epizootic. The presence of reservoir incompetent hosts in even moderate numbers largely eliminated the transmission-enhancing effect of host mortality. Local host die-off may prevent mosquitoes to "waste" infectious blood meals on immune host and may thus facilitate perpetuation and spread of transmission.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Under certain conditions, host mortality may enhance transmission of WNV and similarly maintained arboviruses and thus facilitate their emergence and spread. The validity of the assumptions upon which this argument is built need to be empirically examined.}, }
@article {pmid17494561, year = {2007}, author = {Pantin-Jackwood, MJ and Swayne, DE}, title = {Pathobiology of Asian highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus infections in ducks.}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {51}, number = {1 Suppl}, pages = {250-259}, doi = {10.1637/7710-090606R.1}, pmid = {17494561}, issn = {0005-2086}, mesh = {Adrenal Glands/virology ; Animals ; Antigens, Viral/isolation &amp; purification ; Ducks/*virology ; Gastrointestinal Tract/virology ; Heart/virology ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/*pathogenicity ; Influenza in Birds/*pathology/*virology ; Lymphoid Tissue/virology ; Muscle, Skeletal/virology ; Respiratory System/virology ; Virulence ; Virus Replication ; }, abstract = {Ducks and other wild aquatic birds are the natural reservoir of type A influenza viruses, which normally are nonpathogenic in these birds. However, the Asian highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses have evolved from producing no disease or mild respiratory infections in ducks to some strains producing severe systemic disease and mortality. To further understand the pathogenicity of these strains in ducks, we studied the gross and histologic lesions and tissue distribution of viral antigen in 2- and 5-wk-old white Pekin ducks infected with different Asian-origin H5N1 AI viruses. Seven of eight 2-wk-old ducks inoculated with A/Egret/HK/757.2/02 developed acute disease, including severe neurological dysfunction and death. However, this virus killed only two of eight 5-wk-old ducks. Two additional viruses, A/Vietnam/1203/04 and A/Crow/Thailand/04, also produced high mortality in 2-wk-old ducks. Microscopic lesions and AI viral antigen were observed most frequently in the nasal cavity, brain, heart, adrenal glands, and pancreas. Another virus, A/Thailand PB/6231/04, killed three of eight 2-wk-old ducks but did not induce neurological signs. Furthermore, older ducks infected with this virus did not present clinical signs or gross lesions, and their tissues showed very few microscopic lesions. All the viruses studied established systemic infections in both younger and older ducks, with viral replication in tissues correlating with the severity of the clinical signs. The differences in mortality induced by HPAI H5N1 viruses in ducks are reflected in the pathological findings and antigen distribution in tissues. However, the observed differences in pathology between ducks infected at different ages is unclear and may be associated with a variety of factors including the virus strain, host immune response, host cell maturation, and capacity to support viral replication.}, }
@article {pmid17494385, year = {2007}, author = {Fujita, M and Koike, F}, title = {Birds transport nutrients to fragmented forests in an urban landscape.}, journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America}, volume = {17}, number = {3}, pages = {648-654}, doi = {10.1890/06-0118}, pmid = {17494385}, issn = {1051-0761}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Carbon/analysis ; Cities ; Feces/*chemistry ; Garbage ; Japan ; Nitrogen/*analysis ; Phosphorus/*analysis ; Seasons ; *Trees ; }, abstract = {The influence of urbanization on nutrient cycling is vaguely known. Here we document that birds, especially those increasing in urban areas (such as crows, Corvus macrorhynchos and C. corone), affect nutrient cycles. Using fecal traps, we measured phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) input from the excrement of birds in fragmented forests in an urban landscape. Sources of avian feces were examined on the basis of carbon (C), N, and P percentages and stable isotopes of delta15N and delta13C. Nitrogen and P input was aggregated in the urban landscape, being especially high at the forest where crows roosted during winter. The annual P input due to bird droppings (range 0.068-0.460 kg x ha(-1) x yr(-1); mean 0.167 kg x ha(-1) x yr(-1)) was 12.4% of the total of other pathways in typical forests and 52.9% in the evergreen forest where crows roosted. The annual N input due to bird droppings (range 0.44-3.49 kg x ha(-1) x yr(-1); mean 1.15 kg x ha(-1) x yr(-1)) was 5.2% of the total of other pathways in typical forests and 27.0% in the evergreen forest used by roosting crows. Expected sources of nutrients in feces included insects in the breeding season, fruits in autumn, and mammals and birds in winter. Stable isotopes suggested that the source of nutrients in forests used by roosting crows was from outside the forest. Therefore, birds played a significant role as transporters of nutrients from garbage (including fish, livestock, and/or C4 plants such as corn, with high delta15N and delta13C) in residential and business areas to fragmented evergreen forests, especially near their winter roosts.}, }
@article {pmid17493189, year = {2007}, author = {Rafnsson, SB and Deary, IJ and Smith, FB and Whiteman, MC and Rumley, A and Lowe, GD and Fowkes, FG}, title = {Cognitive decline and markers of inflammation and hemostasis: the Edinburgh Artery Study.}, journal = {Journal of the American Geriatrics Society}, volume = {55}, number = {5}, pages = {700-707}, doi = {10.1111/j.1532-5415.2007.01158.x}, pmid = {17493189}, issn = {0002-8614}, mesh = {Aged ; Biomarkers/*blood ; Cognition Disorders/blood/*diagnosis ; E-Selectin/blood ; Female ; Fibrin Fibrinogen Degradation Products/analysis ; Fibrinogen/*analysis ; Hemostasis ; Humans ; Inflammation ; Inflammation Mediators/blood ; Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1/*blood ; Interleukin-6/*blood ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1/blood ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To determine whether circulating markers of activated inflammation and hemostasis are associated with cognitive decline in older people.<br><br>DESIGN: Prospective cohort study (Edinburgh Artery Study).<br><br>SETTING: Eleven general practices in Edinburgh, Scotland.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: A sample of 452 men and women followed for 16 years.<br><br>MEASUREMENTS: Biomarker data were collected in 1987/88, and cognitive assessment was first conducted in 1998/99, when the mean age of the sample +/- standard deviation was 73.1+/-5.0), and subsequently in 2002/03. Information was obtained on verbal declarative memory (Wechsler Logical Memory Test (LMT)), nonverbal reasoning (Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices), verbal fluency (Verbal Fluency Test), information processing speed (Wechsler Digit Symbol Test), and a general cognitive factor representing the variance common to the individual test scores.<br><br>RESULTS: In age-adjusted analyses, plasma fibrinogen, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) were negatively associated with performance on all cognitive measures in 2002/03 except the LMT (correlation coefficients from -0.10 to -0.24). In multivariate analyses controlling for demographic characteristics, depression, and cardiovascular morbidity and risk factors, fibrinogen independently predicted 4-year decline in nonverbal reasoning (P<.05). Also, when cognitive change was estimated from peak prior level, IL-6 turned out to be inversely related to decline in information processing speed (P<.05). Similarly, ICAM-1 was associated with a greater decline in general cognitive ability (P<.05) and nonverbal ability (P<.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Systemic markers of inflammation and hemostasis are associated with a progressive decline in general and specific cognitive abilities in older people, independent of major vascular comorbidity.}, }
@article {pmid17484433, year = {2006}, author = {Colzato, LS and van Wouwe, NC and Lavender, TJ and Hommel, B}, title = {Intelligence and cognitive flexibility: fluid intelligence correlates with feature "unbinding" across perception and action.}, journal = {Psychonomic bulletin &amp; review}, volume = {13}, number = {6}, pages = {1043-1048}, pmid = {17484433}, issn = {1069-9384}, mesh = {*Cognition ; *Color Perception ; *Form Perception ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Reaction Time ; }, abstract = {People integrate the features of perceived events and of action plans, as well as of episodic stimulus-response relations, into event files. We investigated whether the management of event files, and particularly the speed of updating the binding between the task-relevant stimulus feature and the response, correlates with fluid intelligence. Indeed, the performance of participants scoring high on Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices test was less impaired by a mismatch between the stimulus-response relation in the current and the previous trial. This result suggests that high intelligence is accompanied by a higher degree of flexibility in handling event files--that is, by higher efficiency in updating episodic representations.}, }
@article {pmid17484425, year = {2006}, author = {Bunting, M}, title = {The role of processing difficulty in the predictive utility of working memory span.}, journal = {Psychonomic bulletin &amp; review}, volume = {13}, number = {6}, pages = {998-1004}, pmid = {17484425}, issn = {1069-9384}, support = {2 T32 HD07460-49/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Mental Recall ; Prospective Studies ; *Reaction Time ; *Speech Perception ; }, abstract = {Storage-plus-processing working memory span tasks (e.g., operation span [OSPAN]) are strong predictors of higher order cognition, including general fluid intelligence. This is due, in part, to the difficulty of the processing component. When the processing component prevents only articulatory rehearsal, but not executive attentional control, the predictive utility is attenuated. Participants in one experiment (N = 59) completed Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM) and multiple versions of OSPAN and probed recall (PR). A distractor task (high or low difficulty) was added to PR, and OSPAN's processing component was manipulated for difficulty. OSPAN and PR correlated with RAPM when the processing component took executive attentional control. These results are suggestive of resource sharing between processing and storage.}, }
@article {pmid17483380, year = {2007}, author = {Ganapathy, K and Saleha, AA and Jaganathan, M and Tan, CG and Chong, CT and Tang, SC and Ideris, A and Dare, CM and Bradbury, JM}, title = {Survey of campylobacter, salmonella and mycoplasmas in house crows (Corvus splendens) in Malaysia.}, journal = {The Veterinary record}, volume = {160}, number = {18}, pages = {622-624}, doi = {10.1136/vr.160.18.622}, pmid = {17483380}, issn = {0042-4900}, support = {//Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/microbiology ; Antibodies, Bacterial/blood ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology ; Campylobacter/immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; Campylobacter Infections/epidemiology/*veterinary ; Crows/*microbiology ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay/methods/veterinary ; Female ; Malaysia/epidemiology ; Male ; Mycoplasma/immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; Mycoplasma Infections/epidemiology/*veterinary ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/methods/veterinary ; Salmonella/immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; Salmonella Infections, Animal/*epidemiology ; Sentinel Surveillance/veterinary ; }, abstract = {House crows (Corvus splendens) in Selangor, Malaysia were examined for the presence of Campylobacter species, Salmonella species, Mycoplasma gallisepticum and Mycoplasma synoviae by serology, culture and pcr. For the detection of Campylobacter and Salmonella species swabs were taken either from the intestine or cloaca. For the detection of mycoplasmas, swabs were taken either from the choanal cleft or trachea for culture and pcr and serum samples were tested by the rapid serum agglutination (rsa) and monoclonal antibody-blocking elisa (mbelisa) for antibodies to M gallisepticum and M synoviae. For campylobacter, 25.3 per cent of the crows were positive by culture, and the species identified were Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli. No Salmonella species were isolated. Four of 24 swabs were positive for M gallisepticum dna but none gave positive results for M synoviae dna. No M gallisepticum or M synoviae antibodies were detected by rsa but 60 per cent of the sera gave positive reactions for M gallisepticum and 13 per cent gave positive reactions for M synoviae by mbelisa.}, }
@article {pmid17479632, year = {2007}, author = {Heinrich, B and Bugnyar, T}, title = {Just how smart are ravens?.}, journal = {Scientific American}, volume = {296}, number = {4}, pages = {64-71}, doi = {10.1038/scientificamerican0407-64}, pmid = {17479632}, issn = {0036-8733}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Crows/*physiology ; Environment ; *Intelligence ; Predatory Behavior ; Problem Solving ; Thinking ; }, }
@article {pmid17478698, year = {2007}, author = {Straub, A}, title = {An intelligent crow beats a lab.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {316}, number = {5825}, pages = {688}, doi = {10.1126/science.316.5825.688b}, pmid = {17478698}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Cognition ; *Crows ; Dogs ; Intelligence ; Memory ; }, }
@article {pmid17474173, year = {2006}, author = {Wendorff, J and Przygocka, J and Juchniewicz, B}, title = {[Cognitive disturbances in rolandic epilepsy--correlation with electoencephalographic patterns].}, journal = {Przeglad lekarski}, volume = {63 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {14-17}, pmid = {17474173}, issn = {0033-2240}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/*etiology ; *Electroencephalography ; Epilepsy, Rolandic/*complications/physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving ; Reaction Time ; Reading ; Space Perception ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Verbal Learning ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Up till now there have been many discussions in the epileptological literature concerning the occurrence of cognitive deficits in children with rolandic epilepsy (RE).<br><br>THE AIM OF STUDY: The aim of this study is to establish whether there exist any differences in general intelligence quotient or in particular cognitive functions in children with RE as compared to healthy children in the same age and if a correlation can be found between EEG and cognitive function in RE.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: The material comprised two groups: 38 children with RE (1-2 years after diagnosis establishing) and 15 children of the same age and sex - the control group. The study group was then subdivided into: 26 children with typical EEG patterns and 12 with atypical EEG acc. to Dalla Bernardina. The results of WICS, Benton, Raven's test, Bender-Koppitz and Bender-Gestalt test and 16-canal standard wake and sleep EEG were taken into account. Statistical analysis included: Student-test and Fisher exact test.<br><br>RESULTS: IQ of children with RE in all types of scores (full, verbal or non-verbal) did not differ from the control group. Some differences in particular cognitive functions were found: auditory memory (p<0.01), logical thinking (p<0.05). In the group of children with RE and atypical EEG pattern the full and non-verbal score was lower (p< 0.05) and we found in these children statistically significant deficit in analytic-synthetic thinking based on concrete material and hyperactivity (p< 0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In spite of no difference in general IQ among children with RE and the control group, there are some cognitive deficits in this epilepsy particularly concerning auditory memory and logical thinking. The children with atypical changes in EEG are the risk group of lower full and nonverbal score analytic-synthetic thinking based on concrete material and hyperactivity.}, }
@article {pmid17471819, year = {2006}, author = {Zgorzalewicz, M and Mojs, E}, title = {[Assessment of chosen cognitive functions in children and adolescents with primary headaches].}, journal = {Przeglad lekarski}, volume = {63 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {24-28}, pmid = {17471819}, issn = {0033-2240}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; *Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/*etiology ; Female ; Headache Disorders, Primary/*complications/*physiopathology ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Migraine Disorders/complications/physiopathology ; Migraine with Aura/complications/physiopathology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving ; Reaction Time ; Reading ; Reference Values ; Severity of Illness Index ; Space Perception ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Tension-Type Headache/complications/physiopathology ; Verbal Learning ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Foundations and aim of the study: Right development of cognitive functions is one of the basal factors, which determines good realization of the developmental tasks, for example achievement in education. Primary headaches especially migraine can be one of the important factor disturbing cognitive functioning of children and adolescents. The aim of the study was to estimate the level of some chosen aspects of cognitive and intellectual functioning of children and adolescents with primary headaches: migraine and tension type (TTH).<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: 90 patients with migraine and 35 with TTH were diagnosed according to the classification of the International Headache Society (IHS 2004). Both groups matched each other according to distribution and averages in sex, age, age of the disease occurrence and time of its duration. The methods used in the study were Raven Test (intelligence), Benton Visual Retention Test form C and D, method A (short term memory for visual modality), Ten Words Test as a shortened version of RAVLT (abilities of learning processes and memory), Loretta Bender Gestalt Test and Bender-Koppitz Test (visuomotor integration and visual perception).<br><br>RESULTS: The significant difference in the level of intelligence was stated between the examined groups. Children with migraine, especially without aura, in comparison to peers with TTH reached better results in Raven Test. The analysis of the results of the Benton Test in the number of correct and incorrect reproduced tables shows that children with migraine have poorer results. The percentage of correct answers in area of the level of visuomotor intergration was lower in the group with migraine (64%) than in the group with TTH (76%). Patients with migraine mainly with aura (41%) got lower results in Ten Word Test, which estimates the sum of gained results in five trials, and a percentage of correct answers in comparison to the group with TTH (60%).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Patients with migraine in comparison to children with TTH show important disturbances in ability of short-term visual memory and visuomotor integration. Diagnosed selected cognitive dysfunctions in children with primary headaches can disturb accomplishment of tasks connected with education but they do not have any important influence on general intellectual functioning.}, }
@article {pmid17470009, year = {2007}, author = {Kane, MJ and Conway, ARA and Miura, TK and Colflesh, GJH}, title = {Working memory, attention control, and the N-back task: a question of construct validity.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Learning, memory, and cognition}, volume = {33}, number = {3}, pages = {615-622}, doi = {10.1037/0278-7393.33.3.615}, pmid = {17470009}, issn = {0278-7393}, mesh = {*Attention ; Humans ; Individuality ; Intelligence ; *Memory, Short-Term ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Problem Solving ; Psychomotor Performance ; Reaction Time ; Semantics ; *Serial Learning ; Verbal Learning ; }, abstract = {The N-back task requires participants to decide whether each stimulus in a sequence matches the one that appeared n items ago. Although N-back has become a standard "executive" working memory (WM) measure in cognitive neuroscience, it has been subjected to few behavioral tests of construct validity. A combined experimental- correlational study tested the attention-control demands of verbal 2- and 3-back tasks by presenting n = 1 "lure" foils. Lures elicited more false alarms than control foils in both 2- and 3-back tasks, and lures caused more misses to targets that immediately followed them compared with control targets, but only in 3-back tasks. N-back thus challenges control over familiarity-based responding. Participants also completed a verbal WM span task (operation span task) and a marker test of general fluid intelligence (Gf; Ravens Advanced Progressive Matrices Test; J. C. Raven, J. E. Raven, &amp; J. H. Court, 1998). N-back and WM span correlated weakly, suggesting they do not reflect primarily a single construct; moreover, both accounted for independent variance in Gf. N-back has face validity as a WM task, but it does not demonstrate convergent validity with at least 1 established WM measure.}, }
@article {pmid19069951, year = {2007}, author = {Allarangaye, MD and Traoré, O and Traoré, EV and Millogo, RJ and Guinko, S and Konaté, G}, title = {Host range of rice yellow mottle virus in Sudano-Sahelian Savannahs.}, journal = {Pakistan journal of biological sciences : PJBS}, volume = {10}, number = {9}, pages = {1414-1421}, doi = {10.3923/pjbs.2007.1414.1421}, pmid = {19069951}, issn = {1028-8880}, mesh = {Africa ; Animals ; Disease Susceptibility ; Humans ; Oryza/*virology ; Plant Diseases/virology ; Plant Extracts ; Plant Viruses/*pathogenicity ; Poaceae/*virology ; RNA Viruses/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {In the present study, we investigated on the experimental host range of RYMV among plant species most of which are frequently encountered in rice-growing environments of west and central African savannahs. Only seven out of 66 plant species inoculated were infected by RYMV. All susceptible plant species belonged to the Poaceae family and three of them (Chloris prieuri, Eragrostis cilianensis and Shoenefeldia gracilis) were reported for the first time. Symptoms were conspicuous and persistent in most species but disappeared totally in older plants of some host species such as S. gracilis and Eragrostis tenella. Therefore, surveys for identification ofRYMV wild hosts should be conducted before the flowering stage. Virus-host Interactions were studied between 15 RYMV isolates of different strains and 10 wild host species. Differential reactions were obtained in the crow-foot grass Dactyloctenium aegyptium which was susceptible to five of the fifteen isolates. All other plants were susceptible to the whole set of virus isolates. Altogether, this study underlined the narrowness of RYMV host range and pointed out the complexity of interactions between the virus and its hosts, especially the rationale behind overcoming host barriers.}, }
@article {pmid17467743, year = {2007}, author = {Nevai, AL and Waite, TA and Passino, KM}, title = {State-dependent choice and ecological rationality.}, journal = {Journal of theoretical biology}, volume = {247}, number = {3}, pages = {471-479}, doi = {10.1016/j.jtbi.2007.03.029}, pmid = {17467743}, issn = {0022-5193}, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Birds/*physiology ; *Choice Behavior ; *Ecology ; *Feeding Behavior ; Food ; Models, Psychological ; Safety ; }, abstract = {Decision makers who minimize costly errors should flexibly adjust the way they trade off competing demands, depending on their current state. We explore how state (amount of hoarded food) affects willingness to take extra predation risk to obtain larger food rewards, particularly in animals that may overemphasize safety. Assuming a sigmoid fitness function, we explore how a supplement in state influences this willingness trade danger for food energy. Above a threshold, the model predicts the supplement will weaken this willingness. Incremental increases in state in the deceleratory phase yield smaller fitness gains, so it pays to increase emphasis on safety after receiving a supplement. Below this threshold, the model makes the opposite prediction because incremental increases in state yield bigger fitness gains and so it pays to decrease emphasis on safety. We use the model to explain why hoarding gray jays (Perisoreus canadensis) were induced by an experimental subsidy to accept greater danger. This formerly puzzling finding makes sense if the jays' effective hoard was relatively small, due to theft and decomposition. We discuss adaptive state-dependent choice as a general explanation for apparently irrational behavior.}, }
@article {pmid17462894, year = {2007}, author = {Correia, SP and Dickinson, A and Clayton, NS}, title = {Western scrub-jays anticipate future needs independently of their current motivational state.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {17}, number = {10}, pages = {856-861}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2007.03.063}, pmid = {17462894}, issn = {0960-9822}, support = {BB/D000335/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Appetite ; Cues ; Feeding Behavior/*psychology ; Humans ; *Motivation ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Time Perception ; }, abstract = {Planning for the future has been considered to be a uniquely human trait [1-3]. However, recent studies challenge this hypothesis by showing that food-caching Western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) can relate their previous experience as thieves to the possibility of future cache theft by another bird [4], are sensitive to the state of their caches at recovery ([5] and S. De Kort, S.P.C.C., D. Alexis, A.D., and N.S.C., unpublished data), and can plan for tomorrow's breakfast [6]. Although these results suggest that scrub-jays are capable of future planning, the degree to which these birds act independently of their current motivational state is a matter of contention. The Bischof-Köhler hypothesis [1] holds that nonhuman animals cannot anticipate and act toward the satisfaction of a future need not currently experienced or cued by their present motivational state. Using specific satiety to control for the jays' current and future motivational states, here we specifically test this hypothesis by dissociating current and future motivational states. We report that Western scrub-jays anticipate the recovery of their caches, as well as their own future needs, by acting independently of their current motivational state and immediate needs. The fact that the birds act in favor of a future need as opposed to the current one challenges the hypothesis that this ability is unique to humans.}, }
@article {pmid17461278, year = {2007}, author = {Wilcox, BR and Yabsley, MJ and Ellis, AE and Stallknecht, DE and Gibbs, SE}, title = {West Nile virus antibody prevalence in American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and fish crows (Corvus ossifragus) in Georgia, USA.}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {51}, number = {1}, pages = {125-128}, doi = {10.1637/0005-2086(2007)051[0125:WNVAPI]2.0.CO;2}, pmid = {17461278}, issn = {0005-2086}, support = {427-93-25328//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/*blood ; Base Sequence ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*immunology/*virology ; Crows/genetics/*immunology/*virology ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; Georgia/epidemiology ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Species Specificity ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/immunology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/*immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Crows have been the centerpiece of avian West Nile virus (WNV) surveillance and research in North America. This work has demonstrated variation in susceptibility to WNV infection between American (Cor vus brachyrhynchos) andFish Crows (Corvus ossifragus). The higher WNV-associated mortality rate in American Crows compared with Fish Crows suggests that WNV antibody prevalence would be greater in the Fish Crow population. The objectives of this study were to 1) determine whether Fish Crows had higher WNV antibody prevalencethan American Crows, 2) determine th e persistence o f antibodies to WNV in naturally infected Fish Crows, and 3) develop a technique to distinguish Fish Crows from American Crows on the basis of sequence analysis and restriction enzyme digestion of a mitochondrial DNA fragment. West Nile virus antibody prevalence was 16.5% (n = 97) in Fish Crows and 5.7% in American Crows (n = 53) collected from Georgia between 2004 and 2006. Antibodies persisted at high titers for 12 mo in Fish Crows. This is the first report of WNV antibody persistence in a crow species. A polymerase chain reaction technique paired with restriction enzyme digestion easily distinguished American Crows from Fish Crows on the basis of a mitochondrial DNA fragment.}, }
@article {pmid17460252, year = {2007}, author = {Patton, N and Pattie, A and MacGillivray, T and Aslam, T and Dhillon, B and Gow, A and Starr, JM and Whalley, LJ and Deary, IJ}, title = {The association between retinal vascular network geometry and cognitive ability in an elderly population.}, journal = {Investigative ophthalmology &amp; visual science}, volume = {48}, number = {5}, pages = {1995-2000}, doi = {10.1167/iovs.06-1123}, pmid = {17460252}, issn = {0146-0404}, support = {//Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Aged, 80 and over ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mydriatics/administration &amp; dosage ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Photography ; Psychometrics ; Pupil/drug effects ; Retinal Vessels/*physiology ; Tropicamide/administration &amp; dosage ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To test the hypothesis that parameters of retinal vascular network geometry are significantly associated with cognition.<br><br>METHODS: Three hundred twenty-one community-dwelling, surviving participants in the Scottish Mental Survey of 1932 from the Lothian region of Scotland (Lothian Birth Cohort 1921; all born in 1921 and aged approximately 83 when tested) underwent fundus photography and the following psychometric tests: Wechsler Logical Memory, Verbal Fluency, and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. In addition, a general cognitive ability score (g) was obtained from these three correlated tests of cognition. The following parameters of the retinal vascular network geometry were measured: central retinal arterial and venular equivalents (CRAE and CRVE, respectively), arteriovenous ratio (AVR), suboptimality of the median branching coefficient (BC), and median angle of the five most proximal arteriolar bifurcations. General linear modeling (GLM; analysis of covariance [ANCOVA]) was used to measure associations, with gender, APOE e4 status, presence of diabetes, smoking status (current, ex-, or never), and history of cerebrovascular disease as fixed factors and the following covariables: IQ at age 11, logMAR (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution) near visual acuity of the better-seeing eye, years of full-time formal education, occupational social class category, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and alcohol units per week.<br><br>RESULTS: Deviation of the median BC from optimality was significantly associated with general cognitive ability (g) (eta(2) = 0.034, P = 0.02) and verbal fluency (eta(2) = 0.037, P = 0.01), whereas deviation of the angle at arteriolar bifurcations from optimality was significantly associated with logical memory (eta(2) = 0.026, P = 0.03). CRAE, CRVE, and AVR did not contribute significantly to any cognitive test scores. Conclusions The association of suboptimal retinal vascular network geometry and cognition was shown in this study. It supports the concept that the retinal microvasculature acts as a surrogate marker for the cerebral microvasculature.}, }
@article {pmid17455028, year = {2007}, author = {Ball, JD and Hart, RP and Stutts, ML and Turf, E and Barth, JT}, title = {Comparative utility of Barona Formulae, Wtar demographic algorithms, and WRAT-3 reading for estimating premorbid ability in a diverse research sample.}, journal = {The Clinical neuropsychologist}, volume = {21}, number = {3}, pages = {422-433}, doi = {10.1080/13854040600582577}, pmid = {17455028}, issn = {1385-4046}, mesh = {Adult ; *Algorithms ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis ; *Demography ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Psychometrics ; *Reading ; Reference Values ; Reproducibility of Results ; Wechsler Scales/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {Various Barona formulae, a WTAR algorithm based on demographic data, and WRAT-3 oral reading methods of estimating premorbid ability were compared in a diverse research sample of 119 subjects. These methods were correlated with one another and with a modified version of the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices. Descriptive data are provided to illustrate advantages and disadvantages of various methods of estimating premorbid ability when no formal intellectual testing is available. While predicting premorbid ability for individual subjects involves varying degrees of error, we found that the revised Barona formula was superior to the original formula for subjects at the upper end of ability level. When researchers have screened out learning disability and have subject samples with few individuals likely to be of superior premorbid intelligence, oral reading scores are a reasonable measure of premorbid ability. Otherwise, researchers are advised to use both demographic and oral reading methods to estimate premorbid ability.}, }
@article {pmid17453222, year = {2007}, author = {Zimmer, EZ and Lowenstein, L and Bronshtein, M and Goldsher, D and Aharon-Peretz, J}, title = {Clinical significance of isolated mega cisterna magna.}, journal = {Archives of gynecology and obstetrics}, volume = {276}, number = {5}, pages = {487-490}, doi = {10.1007/s00404-007-0369-6}, pmid = {17453222}, issn = {0932-0067}, mesh = {Adult ; Case-Control Studies ; *Cisterna Magna ; Dandy-Walker Syndrome/diagnostic imaging/pathology/*psychology ; Female ; Genetic Counseling ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Radiography ; Ultrasonography, Prenatal ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The prevalence and clinical significance of isolated mega cisterna magna in both fetuses and adults is not yet well defined. It is therefore difficult to provide reliable parental counseling in cases of a fetal sonographic diagnosis of this anomaly. The aim of the present study was to, determine the cognitive profile of adults with isolated mega cisterna magna.<br><br>METHODS: We reviewed 19,301 consecutive CT/MRI of the brain. Isolated mega cisterna magna was observed in 49 cases. A battery of neuropsychological tests was performed in 18 adults with this anomaly and in 18 controls who had no brain anomaly on CT/MRI.<br><br>RESULTS: Subjects with isolated mega cisterna magna had a lower performance on memory tasks [RAVLT saving score (0.8 +/- 0.2 vs. 1.02 +/- 0.2, P = 0.003)] and verbal fluency [phonemic fluency (9.4 +/- 4.5 vs. 13.6 +/- 5.3, P = 0.02), semantic fluency (19.8 +/- 5.8 vs. 24.4 +/- 7.5, P = 0.05)]. They did not differ from controls in regard to the Raven similarity tests indicating that this brain anomaly is not associated with impairment of general cognitive abilities.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Adults with isolated mega cisterna have an overall normal cognitive functioning but may score inferior to controls on some parameters of memory and verbal fluency. Although application of adult cases to the fetuses is not well established, this information might be of value in parental counseling in cases of a fetus with this anomaly.}, }
@article {pmid17450237, year = {2007}, author = {Wang, SX and Wang, ZH and Cheng, XT and Li, J and Sang, ZP and Zhang, XD and Han, LL and Qiao, XY and Wu, ZM and Wang, ZQ}, title = {Arsenic and fluoride exposure in drinking water: children's IQ and growth in Shanyin county, Shanxi province, China.}, journal = {Environmental health perspectives}, volume = {115}, number = {4}, pages = {643-647}, pmid = {17450237}, issn = {0091-6765}, mesh = {Arsenic/*adverse effects ; Body Height ; Body Weight ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Child Development ; China ; *Environmental Exposure ; Female ; Fluorides/*adverse effects ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Rural Population ; Water Pollutants/*adverse effects ; *Water Supply ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Recently, in a cross-sectional study of 201 children in Araihazar, Bangladesh, exposure to arsenic (As) in drinking water has been shown to lower the scores on tests that measure children's intellectual function before and after adjustment for sociodemographic features.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: We investigated the effects of As and fluoride exposure on children's intelligence and growth.<br><br>METHODS: We report the results of a study of 720 children between 8 and 12 years of age in rural villages in Shanyin county, Shanxi province, China. The children were exposed to As at concentrations of 142 +/- 106 microg/L (medium-As group) and 190 +/- 183 microg/L (high-As group) in drinking water compared with the control group that was exposed to low concentrations of As (2 +/- 3 microg/L) and low concentrations of fluoride (0.5 +/- 0.2 mg/L). A study group of children exposed to high concentrations of fluoride (8.3 +/- 1.9 mg/L) but low concentrations of As (3 +/- 3 microg/L) was also included because of the common occurrence of elevated concentrations of fluoride in groundwater in our study area. A standardized IQ (intelligence quotient) test was modified for children in rural China and was based on the classic Raven's test used to determine the effects of these exposures on children's intelligence. A standardized measurement procedure for weight, height, chest circumference, and lung capacity was used to determine the effects of these exposures on children's growth.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean IQ scores decreased from 105 +/- 15 for the control group, to 101 +/- 16 for the medium-As group (p < 0.05), and to 95 +/- 17 for the high-As group (p < 0.01). The mean IQ score for the high-fluoride group was 101 +/- 16 and significantly different from that of the control group (p < 0.05). Children in the control group were taller than those in the high-fluoride group (p < 0.05); weighed more than the those in the high-As group (p < 0.05); and had higher lung capacity than those in the medium-As group (p < 0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Children's intelligence and growth can be affected by high concentrations of As or fluoride. The IQ scores of the children in the high-As group were the lowest among the four groups we investigated. It is more significant that high concentrations of As affect children's intelligence. It indicates that arsenic exposure can affect children's intelligence and growth.}, }
@article {pmid17447947, year = {2007}, author = {Wang, H and Ranalli, MG}, title = {Low-rank smoothing splines on complicated domains.}, journal = {Biometrics}, volume = {63}, number = {1}, pages = {209-217}, doi = {10.1111/j.1541-0420.2006.00674.x}, pmid = {17447947}, issn = {0006-341X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted ; *Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Mercury/analysis ; Models, Biological ; New Hampshire ; Regression Analysis ; *Statistics, Nonparametric ; Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis ; }, abstract = {Smoothing over a domain with irregular boundaries or interior gaps and holes is addressed. Consider the problem of estimating mercury in sediment concentrations in the estuarine waters in New Hampshire. A modified version of low-rank thin plate splines (LTPS) is introduced where the geodesic distance is applied to evaluate dissimilarity of any two data observations: loosely speaking, distances between locations are not measured as the crow flies, but as the fish swims. The method is compared with competing smoothing techniques, LTPS, and finite element L-splines.}, }
@article {pmid17436420, year = {2006}, author = {}, title = {A world less silent: celebrating Jay Katz's contributions to law, medicine, and ethics. Proceedings of a meeting to honor Jay Katz. October 15, 2004. New Haven, Connecticut, USA.}, journal = {Yale journal of health policy, law, and ethics}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {393-502}, pmid = {17436420}, issn = {1535-3532}, mesh = {*Bioethical Issues ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; *Jurisprudence ; Lawyers/education/psychology ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid17435326, year = {2007}, author = {Zahedi, MS and Khan, MY}, title = {A mechanical model of wing and theoretical estimate of taper factor for three gliding birds.}, journal = {Journal of biosciences}, volume = {32}, number = {2}, pages = {351-361}, pmid = {17435326}, issn = {0250-5991}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Falconiformes/*physiology ; Flight, Animal/*physiology ; Linear Models ; *Models, Anatomic ; *Models, Theoretical ; Wings, Animal/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; }, abstract = {We tested a mechanical model of wing,which was constructed using the measurements of wingspan and wing area taken from three species of gliding birds.In this model,we estimated the taper factors of the wings for jackdaw (Corrus monedula), Harris' hawk (Parabuteo unicinctas) and Lagger falcon (Falco jugger) as 1.8, 1.5 and 1.8,respectively. Likewise, by using the data linear regression and curve estimation method,as well as estimating the taper factors and the angle between the humerus and the body, we calculated the relationship between wingspan,wing area and the speed necessary to meet the aerodynamic requirements of sustained flight.In addition,we calculated the relationship between the speed,wing area and wingspan for a specific angle between the humerus and the body over the range of stall speed to maximum speed of gliding flight.We then compared the results for these three species of gliding birds. These comparisons suggest that the aerodynamic characteristics of Harris' hawk wings are similar to those of the falcon but different from those of the jackdaw.This paper also presents two simple equations to estimate the minimum angle between the humerus and the body as well as the minimum span ratio of a bird in gliding flight.}, }
@article {pmid17432055, year = {2007}, author = {Chavatte, JM and Chiron, F and Chabaud, A and Landau, I}, title = {[Probable speciations by "host-vector 'fidelity'": 14 species of Plasmodium from magpies].}, journal = {Parasite (Paris, France)}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {21-37}, doi = {10.1051/parasite/2007141021}, pmid = {17432055}, issn = {1252-607X}, mesh = {Aedes/*parasitology ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Host-Parasite Interactions ; Insect Vectors/parasitology ; *Phylogeny ; Plasmodium/*classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; *Songbirds ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {33 Magpies resident in two parks close to Paris were investigated for the presence of Plasmodium parasites. The majority of the birds were found to be infected with multiple parasite species. A total of 14 species were observed, and of these 10 were novel and consequently described, and two could not be assigned with confidence. It is hypothesized that the unexpected abundance of species is due to a phenomenon which we term "host-vector 'fidelisation'". Indeed, the combination of the eco-biological characteristics of the host (mating pairs in contiguous, but strictly defined territories) with those of the vector (numerous Aedes species with distinct behavior), would generate fragmentation of the niches. This type of isolation overlays others known for parasitic populations (geographical, circadian, microlocalisations), leading to the formation of independent host-parasite niches which in turn lead to speciation.}, }
@article {pmid17416140, year = {2007}, author = {Zeiner, H and Schobesberger, H and Skalicky, M and Stanek, C}, title = {Effect of different claw trimming methods on the pressure distribution under the bovine claw--an in vitro study.}, journal = {Berliner und Munchener tierarztliche Wochenschrift}, volume = {120}, number = {3-4}, pages = {165-172}, pmid = {17416140}, issn = {0005-9366}, mesh = {Animals ; Biomechanical Phenomena/methods ; Cattle/*physiology/surgery ; Cattle Diseases/prevention &amp; control ; Foot Diseases/prevention &amp; control/veterinary ; Hoof and Claw/*physiology/*surgery ; In Vitro Techniques ; Pressure ; Walking/physiology ; Weight-Bearing/physiology ; }, abstract = {This survey focusses on the effects of various claw trimming methods as well as the effect of the different resulting claw shapes on the pressure distribution under the sole. 64 bovine claws were trimmed according to 3 different trimming methods, the functional claw trimming method by Toussaint Raven and two other specially modified methods. The alternative methods resulted on the one hand in long and acute-angled claws, on the other hand in a very steep claw profile. The limb samples were attached to the hydraulic plunger of a material testing machine and pressed onto a pressure distribution plate with a predefined load. The pressure distribution pattern was recorded before and after trimming. An obvious stress concentration could be observed in the bulbar region of the outer claws. All of the applied claw trimming methods induced a redistribution of load onto the inner claws while relieving the bulbar area of the outer claws. The inner claws were the main reason for the enlarged floor contact area caused by the trimming techniques. The results show that all techniques led to an improvement of stress conditions. In some cases, methods 2 and 3 were slightly superior in reducing maximum pressure and enlarging floor contact area.}, }
@article {pmid17407915, year = {2007}, author = {Jensen, KK}, title = {Comodulation detection differences in the hooded crow (Corvus corone cornix), with direct comparison to human subjects.}, journal = {The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America}, volume = {121}, number = {3}, pages = {1783-1789}, doi = {10.1121/1.2434246}, pmid = {17407915}, issn = {0001-4966}, mesh = {Acoustics ; *Animal Communication ; Animals ; Auditory Threshold ; Crows/*physiology ; Humans ; Perceptual Masking ; Psychophysics ; }, abstract = {Envelope modulations have been shown important in determining the effectiveness of masking noises. For example, the threshold for detecting a signal flanked by maskers is lower if the maskers and the signal are modulated with different envelopes, rather than the same envelope (comodulation). This threshold change is called the comodulation detection difference (CDD). CDDs were studied in two wild-caught hooded crows, using a 1.5 kHz signal and two maskers at 0.9 and 2.1 kHz, presented at an overall level of 55 dB SPL (re 20 microPa). For direct comparison with human psychophysics, three human subjects were tested in the same setup. CDDs averaged 15 dB for the two crow subjects and 11 dB for the human subjects. The species difference between average CDDs was insignificant. The significance of the CDD effect in a natural setting is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid17407168, year = {2007}, author = {Bierman, EJ and Comijs, HC and Gundy, CM and Sonnenberg, C and Jonker, C and Beekman, AT}, title = {The effect of chronic benzodiazepine use on cognitive functioning in older persons: good, bad or indifferent?.}, journal = {International journal of geriatric psychiatry}, volume = {22}, number = {12}, pages = {1194-1200}, doi = {10.1002/gps.1811}, pmid = {17407168}, issn = {0885-6230}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging ; Anti-Anxiety Agents/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; Benzodiazepines/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Female ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Memory/*drug effects ; Middle Aged ; Netherlands ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study investigates the effects of benzodiazepine (BZ) use on cognitive performance in elderly persons in a longitudinal design.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: Data were obtained from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASA), in the Netherlands. 2,105 respondents (>/=62 years of age) were included and had repeated measurements over a period of 9 years. For all BZs the type, dosage, frequency and duration of use was measured. The equivalent of a dose of diazepam was determined with regard to type and dosage and a cumulative dosage was calculated. General cognitive functioning was measured with the Mini-Mental State Examination, information processing speed was measured with the coding task, fluid intelligence with Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices and episodic memory with the Auditory Verbal Learning Test. Multilevel analyses were used to investigate the relationship between BZ use and cognitive decline.<br><br>RESULTS: A negative effect of BZ use on cognitive performance was found. However, the effect sizes were very small.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study suggests that both duration and cumulative exposure to BZ has a small negative effect on the long-term cognitive functioning of elderly people in the community.}, }
@article {pmid17394794, year = {2007}, author = {Jenkins, LK and Ross, WL and Young, KA}, title = {Increases in apoptosis and declines in Bcl-XL protein characterise testicular regression in American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos).}, journal = {Reproduction, fertility, and development}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {461-469}, pmid = {17394794}, issn = {1031-3613}, support = {R25 GM071638/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Apoptosis ; Bird Diseases/metabolism/*pathology ; Body Weight ; *Crows ; Down-Regulation ; Male ; Organ Size ; Testicular Diseases/metabolism/pathology/*veterinary ; Testis/chemistry/*pathology ; bcl-X Protein/analysis/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {The present study investigated the cellular changes observed during testicular regression in American crows. Testes from adults caught during the early (March), progressing (April), peak (early May), transitional (late May), and post- (June) breeding season were examined. Apoptosis was assessed by in situ terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labelling (TUNEL) and Bcl-X(L) protein immunolabelling. Testis mass increased two-fold from March to early May (P < 0.05), then declined 19-fold by June (P < 0.001) without corresponding changes in body mass (P > 0.05). Testicular activity, evaluated using a spermatogenic index, increased nearly two-fold from March to early May and declined nine-fold in June (P < 0.001). Seminiferous tubule diameter declined four-fold in June compared with earlier months (P < 0.001). In all testes, TUNEL-positive germ cells were detected at low levels, with the highest levels observed in late May (P < 0.001). In contrast, TUNEL-positive Sertoli cells were maintained at low levels in March-April and increased nine-fold in early May (P < 0.001). The Bcl-X(L) immunostaining was detected in Sertoli cells in March-early May; however, staining was most intense in March-April and substantially weaker by early May. These data suggest that the seasonal rise in testicular competence occurs slowly in American crows; however, testis function is terminated rapidly after the breeding season. Furthermore, it is likely that Sertoli cell apoptosis followed by massive germ cell loss is responsible for the rapid reduction in testis mass.}, }
@article {pmid17392051, year = {2007}, author = {Lear, J}, title = {Working through the end of civilization.}, journal = {The International journal of psycho-analysis}, volume = {88}, number = {Pt 2}, pages = {291-308}, doi = {10.1516/1358-2877-55x2-6888}, pmid = {17392051}, issn = {0020-7578}, mesh = {Anxiety Disorders/psychology ; *Civilization ; Culture ; Dreams ; Ego ; Humans ; Imagination ; Indians, North American ; Life Change Events ; *Psychoanalytic Interpretation ; }, abstract = {This is an account of how a civilization works through the problems it faces when it is threatened with destruction. It focuses on the example of the Crow Nation, an Indian tribe of the northwest plains of North America, and their last great chief Plenty Coups. Psychoanalytic ideas play a crucial role in explaining how a creative response was possible. In particular, their collective use of dream-visions and dream-interpretation made possible the creation of a new ego ideal for the tribe. This allowed for the transformation of traditional allocations of shame and humiliation. It also allowed for the possibility of transformation of psychological structure. And it opened up new possibilities for what might count as flourishing as a Crow. Conversely, the threat of civilizational collapse allows us to see new possibilities for the conceptual development of psychoanalysis. In particular, psychoanalysis needs to recognize that destruction can occur at the level of the culture while the individuals are not physically harmed. The psychological states of these individuals can be various and complex and cannot be neatly summed up under the category of trauma. A culture can be devastated, while there is no one-to-one relation to the psychological states of the individuals who participate in that culture. It is also true that a collapse of a way of life makes a variety of psychological states impossible. Coming to understand these phenomena is essential to understanding how a culture works through threats to its very existence.}, }
@article {pmid17380603, year = {2007}, author = {Davis, B}, title = {Sugar solutions. Interview by James Mitchell Crow.}, journal = {Molecular bioSystems}, volume = {3}, number = {2}, pages = {B13}, pmid = {17380603}, issn = {1742-206X}, mesh = {Carbohydrates/*chemistry ; *Chemistry, Organic ; Solutions/chemistry ; Systems Biology ; }, }
@article {pmid17374691, year = {2007}, author = {Neumann, CG and Murphy, SP and Gewa, C and Grillenberger, M and Bwibo, NO}, title = {Meat supplementation improves growth, cognitive, and behavioral outcomes in Kenyan children.}, journal = {The Journal of nutrition}, volume = {137}, number = {4}, pages = {1119-1123}, doi = {10.1093/jn/137.4.1119}, pmid = {17374691}, issn = {0022-3166}, mesh = {Adolescent ; *Adolescent Behavior ; *Adolescent Development ; Animals ; Anthropometry ; Arm ; Child ; *Child Behavior ; *Child Development ; *Cognition ; *Diet ; Education ; Humans ; Kenya ; *Meat ; Milk ; Motor Activity ; Muscle, Skeletal/growth &amp; development ; Plants, Edible ; Play and Playthings ; School Health Services ; }, abstract = {A randomized, controlled school feeding study was conducted in rural Embu District, Kenya to test for a causal link between animal-source food intake and changes in micronutrient nutrition and growth, cognitive, and behavioral outcomes. Twelve primary schools were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups. Children in Standard I classes received the local plant-based dish githeri as a midmorning school snack supplemented with meat, milk, or fat added to equalize energy content in all feedings. The Control children received no feedings but participated in data collection. Main outcome measures assessed at baseline and longitudinally were 24-h food intake recall, anthropometry, cognitive function, physical activity, and behaviors during school free play. For cognitive function, the Meat group showed the steepest rate of increase on Raven's Progressive Matrices scores and in zone-wide school end-term total and arithmetic test scores. The Plain githeri and Meat groups performed better over time than the Milk and Control groups (P < 0.02-0.03) on arithmetic tests. The Meat group showed the greatest increase in percentage time in high levels of physical activity and in initiative and leadership behaviors compared with all other groups. For growth, in the Milk group only younger and stunted children showed a greater rate of gain in height. The Meat group showed near doubling of upper midarm muscle area, and the Milk group a smaller degree of increase. This is the first randomized, controlled feeding study to examine the effect of meat- vs. milk- vs. plant-based snacks on functional outcomes in children.}, }
@article {pmid17373672, year = {2007}, author = {Reisen, W and Brault, AC}, title = {West Nile virus in North America: perspectives on epidemiology and intervention.}, journal = {Pest management science}, volume = {63}, number = {7}, pages = {641-646}, doi = {10.1002/ps.1325}, pmid = {17373672}, issn = {1526-498X}, mesh = {Animals ; Climate ; Encephalitis, St. Louis/epidemiology ; Humans ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/prevention &amp; control/transmission ; *West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) invaded New York in 1999 and rapidly swept across the North American continent to the West Coast, north into southern Canada and south into Latin America, with minimal genetic change. Regional epidemics in equines and humans typically have included a year of viral introduction with minimal activity, successful overwintering, explosive amplification to epidemic levels the following year and then rapid subsidence. Overwintering possibly included long-term mosquito or avian infections, continued low-level transmission at southern latitudes and dispersal by south-north migrants. Explosive amplification has been associated with infections in several corvid species and other urban birds that produce elevated viremias capable of efficiently infecting even moderately susceptible mosquito species. Intervention has included mass vaccination of equines, and proactive and reactive mosquito control. Proactive mosquito control in areas with established infrastructure has been successful in reducing case incidence.}, }
@article {pmid17373332, year = {2007}, author = {Nishimura, T and Hashikawa, K and Fukuyama, H and Kubota, T and Kitamura, S and Matsuda, H and Hanyu, H and Nabatame, H and Oku, N and Tanabe, H and Kuwabara, Y and Jinnouchi, S and Kubol, A}, title = {Decreased cerebral blood flow and prognosis of Alzheimer's disease: a multicenter HMPAO-SPECT study.}, journal = {Annals of nuclear medicine}, volume = {21}, number = {1}, pages = {15-23}, doi = {10.1007/BF03033995}, pmid = {17373332}, issn = {0914-7187}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Alzheimer Disease/*diagnosis/*pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Oximes ; Prognosis ; Severity of Illness Index ; Telencephalon/*blood supply ; *Tomography, Emission-Computed, Single-Photon ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To determine the usefulness of brain perfusion SPECT for evaluating the severity and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD).<br><br>METHODS: Eighty-four AD patients were included. At entry, 99mTc-HMPAO-SPECT, the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), Mental Function Impairment Scale (MENFIS), and the Raven Colored Progression Matrix (RCPM) were performed for all 84 patients. During the follow-up periods, two individual MMSE evaluations in 34 patients, two MENFIS evaluations in 30 patients, and two RCPM evaluations in 20 patients were performed. Based on the regions of decreased cerebral blood flow demonstrated on 3D-SSP images of SPECT, the cases were classified as type A (no decrease), type B (decreased blood flow in the parietal or temporal lobe), type C (decreased blood flow in the frontal lobe and parietal or temporal lobe), type Pc (decreased blood flow in posterior cingulate gyrus only), and "other types". The types of decreased blood flow, scores on neuropsychological evaluations, and symptom progression were analyzed.<br><br>RESULTS: The MENFIS, MMSE, and RCPM scores were poorest in type C patients at entry. The degree of decrease of these scores during the follow-up periods was also greatest in type C. The greatest difference between patients with and without rapid progression in SPECT data of the mild AD patients (MMSE score > or = 24) was in the frontal lobe.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Decreased blood flow in the frontal lobe of AD patients is correlated not only with reduced cognitive function at the time of the evaluation but with rapid progression in the subsequent clinical course.}, }
@article {pmid17360863, year = {2007}, author = {Nemeth, NM and Beckett, S and Edwards, E and Klenk, K and Komar, N}, title = {Avian mortality surveillance for West Nile virus in Colorado.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {76}, number = {3}, pages = {431-437}, pmid = {17360863}, issn = {0002-9637}, mesh = {Animals ; Antigens, Viral/analysis ; Bird Diseases/diagnosis/*mortality ; Birds/*virology ; West Nile Fever/diagnosis/mortality/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {We tested 1,549 avian carcasses of 104 species to identify targets for West Nile virus (WNV) surveillance in Colorado, determine species affected by WNV, compare virus isolation versus RNA detection applied to hearts and oral swabs from carcasses, and compare the VecTest WNV Antigen Assay (VecTest) to standard assays. Forty-two species tested positive. From June to September 2003, 86% of corvids, 34% of non-corvid passerines, and 37% of raptors tested positive. We developed the Target Species Index, which identified American crows as the most important avian indicator species. However, testing multiple species maximizes detection, which may be important early and late in the transmission season. This index may benefit surveillance for other zoonotic pathogens, such as highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus. VecTest using oral swabs was most sensitive for American crow, black-billed magpie, house finch, house sparrow, and American kestrel. Wildlife rehabilitation centers should be recruited to enhance WNV surveillance.}, }
@article {pmid17358903, year = {2007}, author = {Park, JM and Deem, MW}, title = {Phase diagrams of quasispecies theory with recombination and horizontal gene transfer.}, journal = {Physical review letters}, volume = {98}, number = {5}, pages = {058101}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevLett.98.058101}, pmid = {17358903}, issn = {0031-9007}, mesh = {Biological Evolution ; Biophysical Phenomena ; Biophysics ; *Gene Transfer, Horizontal ; *Models, Genetic ; Models, Statistical ; Mutation ; *Recombination, Genetic ; }, abstract = {We consider how transfer of genetic information between individuals influences the phase diagram and mean fitness of both the Eigen and the parallel, or Crow-Kimura, models of evolution. In the absence of genetic transfer, these physical models of evolution consider the replication and point mutation of the genomes of independent individuals in a large population. A phase transition occurs, such that below a critical mutation rate an identifiable quasispecies forms. We show how transfer of genetic information changes the phase diagram and mean fitness and introduces metastability in quasispecies theory, via an analytic field theoretic mapping.}, }
@article {pmid17352287, year = {2007}, author = {Rimar, Y}, title = {[Joseph Carey Merrick the man in the flannel mask].}, journal = {Harefuah}, volume = {146}, number = {2}, pages = {148-52, 163}, pmid = {17352287}, issn = {0017-7768}, mesh = {Face/*abnormalities ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Male ; Skull/*abnormalities ; }, abstract = {Joseph Carey Merrick was born like all other children in his time, yet his life story was unlike those of other people due to an odd disfiguring disease that devastated his appearance. Despite his personal and social handicap caused by his deformity, Joseph Merrick did his best to survive the challenges of every-day living in a hostile and unsympathetic world. This is the story of a man who had to cover his face from the crows behind a mask, a man whose bones have yet to find eternal peace. This is the story of the "elephant man".}, }
@article {pmid17351863, year = {2007}, author = {Robins, P}, title = {JPMorgan 25th annual healthcare conference. Pipelines from NovaCardia, Quark Biotech, Raven Biotechnologies and Serenex.}, journal = {IDrugs : the investigational drugs journal}, volume = {10}, number = {3}, pages = {152-155}, pmid = {17351863}, issn = {1369-7056}, mesh = {Adenosine A1 Receptor Antagonists ; Biotechnology/methods/trends ; Cardiovascular Diseases/drug therapy ; Delivery of Health Care/*methods/trends ; Diuretics/therapeutic use ; Drug Industry/*methods/trends ; Humans ; Membrane Transport Modulators/therapeutic use ; Mucositis/drug therapy ; Thiazepines/therapeutic use ; Xanthines/therapeutic use ; }, }
@article {pmid17342857, year = {2007}, author = {Davis, B}, title = {Sugar solutions. Interview by James Mitchell Crow.}, journal = {Dalton transactions (Cambridge, England : 2003)}, volume = {}, number = {5}, pages = {B13}, pmid = {17342857}, issn = {1477-9226}, mesh = {*Carbohydrates/biosynthesis/chemistry ; Computational Biology ; Glycosylation ; Research ; }, }
@article {pmid17342677, year = {2007}, author = {Malloy-Diniz, LF and Bentes, RC and Figuereido, PM and Brandao-Bretas, D and da Costa-Abrantes, S and Parizzi, AM and Borges-Leite, W and Salgado, JV}, title = {[Standardisation of a battery of tests to evaluate language comprehension, verbal fluency and naming skills in Brazilian children between 7 and 10 years of age: preliminary findings].}, journal = {Revista de neurologia}, volume = {44}, number = {5}, pages = {275-280}, pmid = {17342677}, issn = {0210-0010}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Brazil ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; *Language ; *Language Tests ; Male ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Verbal Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The neuropsychological assessment of language requires instruments that evaluate its receptive and expressive aspects. Due to cultural discrepancies, the use of neuropsychological tests demands normalization studies to the population in which they will be used.<br><br>AIM: To provide normative data for Brazilian schoolchildren in relation to the Token Test, Semantic Verbal Fluency Test and the Minas Gerais Naming Test (animals, body parts and food categories).<br><br>SUBJECTS AND METHODS: 101 children (51 males, 50 females) with ages between 7 to 10 years (mean: 8 years and 8 months), with 2 to 4 years of formal education. Exclusion criteria included score below 25 percentile in the Raven Test. RESULTS. There were no differences between male and female performance. Age was significantly related to performance in all tests.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results are compatible to the literature and, thought preliminary, they may be used as reference in research and clinical settings in our country.}, }
@article {pmid17340792, year = {2007}, author = {Davis, B}, title = {Sugar solutions. Interview by James Mitchell Crow.}, journal = {Photochemical &amp; photobiological sciences : Official journal of the European Photochemistry Association and the European Society for Photobiology}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {B13}, pmid = {17340792}, issn = {1474-905X}, mesh = {Carbohydrates/*chemistry ; Solutions/chemistry ; }, }
@article {pmid17340763, year = {2007}, author = {Davis, B}, title = {Sugar solutions. Interview by James Mitchell Crow.}, journal = {Organic &amp; biomolecular chemistry}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {B13}, pmid = {17340763}, issn = {1477-0520}, mesh = {*Biochemistry/trends ; Carbohydrates/*chemistry ; *Interviews as Topic ; }, }
@article {pmid17330535, year = {2007}, author = {Nejat, F and Kazmi, SS and Habibi, Z and Tajik, P and Shahrivar, Z}, title = {Intelligence quotient in children with meningomyeloceles: a case-control study.}, journal = {Journal of neurosurgery}, volume = {106}, number = {2 Suppl}, pages = {106-110}, doi = {10.3171/ped.2007.106.2.106}, pmid = {17330535}, issn = {0022-3085}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Attention/classification ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cohort Studies ; Educational Status ; Fecal Incontinence/complications ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Gait/physiology ; Humans ; Intelligence/*classification ; Male ; Meningomyelocele/complications/*psychology/surgery ; Parents/education ; Social Class ; Urinary Incontinence/complications ; Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt/adverse effects ; Verbal Behavior/classification ; }, abstract = {OBJECT: Meningomyelocele (MMC) is a common central nervous system birth defect. As one of many problems facing patients with MMC, learning disabilities are often overlooked. The aim of this study was to evaluate IQs in a group of children with MMCs and determine if a correlation exists between intelligence level and the presence of an MMC and/or its complications.<br><br>METHODS: A case-control study was conducted at the Children's Hospital Medical Center in Tehran, Iran, from December 2004 through December 2005. The patient group included 50 children with MMC from 5 to 12 years of age who were referred to the authors' institution for treatment of complications or for follow up after surgery for MMC closure. The patient group was individually matched for age and sex with a control group of 50 children referred to the hospital for other reasons and who did not have MMC or other neurological abnormalities. The IQs in all children in this study were evaluated using the Ravens Progressive Matrices test. The children in both groups were similar in the socioeconomic status of the family (p = 0.347) and educational status of the father (p = 0.117) and mother (p = 0.439). Patient age at the time of surgery for MMC closure varied from 1 day to 96 months (mean 4.1 months). Only 20% of the patients with MMC could walk with a normal gait. Forty-six percent of the patients had undergone placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt, and half of these patients experienced shunt-related complications; 72% of the children in the patient group were completely incontinent for both urine and feces. The IQ results obtained in the patient group ranged from 73 to 134 with a mean (+/- standard deviation) of 96.62 +/- 13.01. In the control group the IQ range was 70 to 128, and the mean was 104.82 +/- 12.30. Compared with the control group there was a statistically significant correlation between having an MMC and having a lower IQ (p < 0.001, paired t-test).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Although the average IQ in the patient group was significantly lower than that in the control group, it is important to note that all children in the patient group had an average or above-average IQ. In contrast with the results reported in other studies, earlier repair of the MMC, the presence of a shunt or shunt-related complications, walking difficulty, and the spinal level of the lesion did not correlate significantly with IQs. Therefore, the lower IQ and reduced cognitive levels noted in these patients result from the disease process itself and not from the associated complications.}, }
@article {pmid17327633, year = {2007}, author = {Kipiani, T and Tatishvili, N and Sirbiladze, Ts}, title = {Long-term neurological development of the preterm newborns.}, journal = {Georgian medical news}, volume = {}, number = {142}, pages = {42-45}, pmid = {17327633}, issn = {1512-0112}, mesh = {Apgar Score ; Apraxias/*epidemiology ; Cerebral Palsy/*epidemiology ; Developmental Disabilities/*epidemiology ; Epilepsy/*epidemiology ; Gestational Age ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; Infant, Premature ; Prevalence ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Prematurity represents one of the risk factors of newborns' mortality, morbidity and derangements of long-term neurological development. With the increase of number of preterm newborns, problems with subsequent neurological development have also increased. Preterm population deserves great interest and a lot of investigations have been carried out in order to study their development dynamically. The goal of our study is evaluation of the preterm newborn, with gestation age <=37 weeks, estimation of their neurological developmet at the later age (6-7) and comparing them with full-term born infants of the same age. Objects of our investigation are preterm newborns, with gestation age <=37 weeks. 94 preterm newborns and 50 full-term newborns were estimated in the neonatal period and then later at the age of 6-7; methods of evaluation at the age of 6 years there were used: Standard full neurological investigation, GMFM scale (gross motor functional measure), Towen Scale for evaluation of minor motor activity, Raven Color Matrix for estimation of non-verbal cognitive functions, Coners Questionnaire for parents - for revelation of dysadaptation;. Cerebral palsy among preterm infants was observed in 15 cases-16%; in control group- 1 case-2%; Dyspraxia syndrome was observed in 32 cases-34%, in control group 9 cases-18%. The results of evaluation gross motor function with GMFM score for term group is higher,than for preterm group: 95,86 vs 83,52, p<0,001. The results of the evaluation nonverbal cognitive function with Color matrix of Raven test is higher in term group:20,20 vs 16,6; p<0,001 Syndromes of behavioral disadaptation have been observed more often among preterm newborns Score for each parts(problem of control; impulsivity, index of hyperactivity) are higher in preterm children, p<0,001. Low birth gestation can be a real risk factor for the later neurological development.. Cerebral palsy and dyspraxial syndrome is probably more among newborns with low gestation than among control group contingent;The results of the evaluation nonverbal cognitive function with Color matrix of Raven test is higher in term group. Syndromes of behavioral disadaptation have been observed more often among preterm newborns. Because of frequent//high percent of neurolodevelopmental problems preterm contingent require continuing monitoring,evaluation in dynamicaly for early distincting mild problems.}, }
@article {pmid17326393, year = {2006}, author = {Kucher, AN and Danilova, AL and Koneva, LA and Nogovitsyna, AN}, title = {[The population structure of rural settlements of Sakha Republic (Yakutia): ethnic, sex, and age composition and vital statistics].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {42}, number = {12}, pages = {1718-1726}, pmid = {17326393}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Distribution ; Animals ; *Demography ; Ethnicity ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Population/*genetics ; Population Groups ; Rural Population/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Sex Distribution ; Siberia/ethnology ; Vital Statistics ; }, abstract = {The genetic demographic structure of 12 rural populations from eight uluses of Sakha Republic (Yakutia) has been analyzed. The ethnic, sex, and age composition of the population and the reproductive parameters of women that have completed and have not completed the reproductive period are reported. Crow's indices have been estimated in representatives of three indigenous ethnic groups (Yakuts, Evens, and Evenks).}, }
@article {pmid17323567, year = {2005}, author = {Johnson, S}, title = {Avian titer development against West nile virus after extralabel use of an equine vaccine.}, journal = {Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine : official publication of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians}, volume = {36}, number = {2}, pages = {257-264}, doi = {10.1638/03-094.1}, pmid = {17323567}, issn = {1042-7260}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Bird Diseases/immunology/*prevention &amp; control ; Dose-Response Relationship, Immunologic ; Random Allocation ; *Raptors ; West Nile Fever/prevention &amp; control/*veterinary ; West Nile Virus Vaccines/*immunology ; West Nile virus/*immunology ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus affects many animals, but the highest prevalence of morbidity and mortality is observed in birds, horses, and humans. The purpose of this study was to determine a protocol in birds of prey and corvids, using a vaccine developed for horses. The birds were assigned to five groups. Groups 1-4 received 0.25 ml, 0.5 ml, 0.75 ml, and 1.0 ml, respectively, and group 5 served as a control group. The greatest percentage of seroconversion (58.3%) was observed in the vaccine group that received a dose of 1.0 ml administered thrice, 3 wk apart. This report demonstrates that a vaccine developed for equines against West Nile virus can be administered to birds.}, }
@article {pmid17323519, year = {2007}, author = {Davis, B}, title = {Sugar solutions. Ben Davis talks to James Mitchell Crow about 'nature's fuzzy logic'.}, journal = {Chemical communications (Cambridge, England)}, volume = {}, number = {5}, pages = {B13}, pmid = {17323519}, issn = {1359-7345}, mesh = {*Biochemistry ; Carbohydrates/*chemistry ; }, }
@article {pmid17322042, year = {2007}, author = {Morell, V}, title = {Nicola Clayton profile. Nicky and the jays.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {315}, number = {5815}, pages = {1074-1075}, doi = {10.1126/science.315.5815.1074}, pmid = {17322042}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Cognition ; England ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Intelligence ; Memory ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; }, }
@article {pmid17315466, year = {2005}, author = {Grove, DM and Zajac, AM and Spahr, J and Duncan, RB and Sleeman, JM}, title = {Combined infection by avian poxvirus and Collyriclum faba in an American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos).}, journal = {Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine : official publication of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians}, volume = {36}, number = {1}, pages = {111-114}, doi = {10.1638/03-100}, pmid = {17315466}, issn = {1042-7260}, mesh = {Animals ; Avipoxvirus/*isolation &amp; purification ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/pathology ; *Crows ; Fatal Outcome ; Female ; Poxviridae Infections/epidemiology/pathology/*veterinary ; Skin Diseases, Parasitic/epidemiology/pathology/*veterinary ; Trematoda/isolation &amp; purification ; Trematode Infections/epidemiology/pathology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {An adult American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) from Virginia, USA, was diagnosed with combined infection of avian poxvirus and the skin fluke Collyriclum faba. The flukes and viral inclusions were combined in a large (4 x 4 cm) multilobulated proliferative mass on the ventrum just cranial to the cloaca. The flukes were identified using light microscopy of organisms obtained by antemortem wedge biopsy. Intraepithelial cytoplasmic inclusions consistent with poxvirus infection were seen on histopathologic examination of the mass.}, }
@article {pmid17314979, year = {2007}, author = {Raby, CR and Alexis, DM and Dickinson, A and Clayton, NS}, title = {Planning for the future by western scrub-jays.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {445}, number = {7130}, pages = {919-921}, doi = {10.1038/nature05575}, pmid = {17314979}, issn = {1476-4687}, support = {BB/D000335/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology/psychology ; Female ; *Food ; Housing, Animal ; Humans ; Hunger ; Male ; Models, Psychological ; Songbirds/*physiology ; Thinking/*physiology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Knowledge of and planning for the future is a complex skill that is considered by many to be uniquely human. We are not born with it; children develop a sense of the future at around the age of two and some planning ability by only the age of four to five. According to the Bischof-Köhler hypothesis, only humans can dissociate themselves from their current motivation and take action for future needs: other animals are incapable of anticipating future needs, and any future-oriented behaviours they exhibit are either fixed action patterns or cued by their current motivational state. The experiments described here test whether a member of the corvid family, the western scrub-jay (Aphelocoma californica), plans for the future. We show that the jays make provision for a future need, both by preferentially caching food in a place in which they have learned that they will be hungry the following morning and by differentially storing a particular food in a place in which that type of food will not be available the next morning. Previous studies have shown that, in accord with the Bischof-Köhler hypothesis, rats and pigeons may solve tasks by encoding the future but only over very short time scales. Although some primates and corvids take actions now that are based on their future consequences, these have not been shown to be selected with reference to future motivational states, or without extensive reinforcement of the anticipatory act. The results described here suggest that the jays can spontaneously plan for tomorrow without reference to their current motivational state, thereby challenging the idea that this is a uniquely human ability.}, }
@article {pmid17313979, year = {2007}, author = {van 't Wout, M and Aleman, A and Kessels, RP and Cahn, W and de Haan, EH and Kahn, RS}, title = {Exploring the nature of facial affect processing deficits in schizophrenia.}, journal = {Psychiatry research}, volume = {150}, number = {3}, pages = {227-235}, doi = {10.1016/j.psychres.2006.03.010}, pmid = {17313979}, issn = {0165-1781}, mesh = {Adult ; Affect ; Automatism ; Decision Making ; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ; *Facial Expression ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Perceptual Disorders/*diagnosis/*epidemiology ; *Recognition, Psychology ; Schizophrenia/*epidemiology ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {Schizophrenia has been associated with deficits in facial affect processing, especially negative emotions. However, the exact nature of the deficit remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether schizophrenia patients have problems in automatic allocation of attention as well as in controlled evaluation of facial affect. Thirty-seven patients with schizophrenia were compared with 41 control subjects on incidental facial affect processing (gender decision of faces with a fearful, angry, happy, disgusted, and neutral expression) and degraded facial affect labeling (labeling of fearful, angry, happy, and neutral faces). The groups were matched on estimates of verbal and performance intelligence (National Adult Reading Test; Raven's Matrices), general face recognition ability (Benton Face Recognition), and other demographic variables. The results showed that patients with schizophrenia as well as control subjects demonstrate the normal threat-related interference during incidental facial affect processing. Conversely, on controlled evaluation patients were specifically worse in the labeling of fearful faces. In particular, patients with high levels of negative symptoms may be characterized by deficits in labeling fear. We suggest that patients with schizophrenia show no evidence of deficits in the automatic allocation of attention resources to fearful (threat-indicating) faces, but have a deficit in the controlled processing of facial emotions that may be specific for fearful faces.}, }
@article {pmid17309867, year = {2007}, author = {Clayton, NS and Dally, JM and Emery, NJ}, title = {Social cognition by food-caching corvids. The western scrub-jay as a natural psychologist.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {362}, number = {1480}, pages = {507-522}, pmid = {17309867}, issn = {0962-8436}, support = {BB/D000335/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition/*physiology ; Competitive Behavior/physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Learning ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Food-caching corvids hide food, but such caches are susceptible to pilfering by other individuals. Consequently, the birds use several counter strategies to protect their caches from theft, e.g. hiding most of them out of sight. When observed by potential pilferers at the time of caching, experienced jays that have been thieves themselves, take further protective action. Once the potential pilferers have left, they move caches those birds have seen, re-hiding them in new places. Naive birds that had no thieving experience do not do so. By focusing on the counter strategies of the cacher when previously observed by a potential pilferer, these results raise the intriguing possibility that re-caching is based on a form of mental attribution, namely the simulation of another bird's viewpoint. Furthermore, the jays also keep track of the observer which was watching when they cached and take protective action accordingly, thus suggesting that they may also be aware of others' knowledge states.}, }
@article {pmid17309484, year = {2007}, author = {Yamamoto, T and Yokozeki, H}, title = {Increased expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and its receptor, Flt-1, in glomeruloid haemangioma associated with Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV}, volume = {21}, number = {3}, pages = {417-419}, doi = {10.1111/j.1468-3083.2006.01905.x}, pmid = {17309484}, issn = {0926-9959}, mesh = {Diagnosis, Differential ; Female ; Hemangioma/complications/diagnosis/*metabolism ; Humans ; Immunohistochemistry ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/complications/diagnosis/*metabolism ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/*biosynthesis ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-1/*biosynthesis ; }, }
@article {pmid17302972, year = {2007}, author = {Fogliata, A and Nicolini, G and Alber, M and Asell, M and Clivio, A and Dobler, B and Larsson, M and Lohr, F and Lorenz, F and Muzik, J and Polednik, M and Vanetti, E and Wolff, D and Wyttenbach, R and Cozzi, L}, title = {On the performances of different IMRT Treatment Planning Systems for selected paediatric cases.}, journal = {Radiation oncology (London, England)}, volume = {2}, number = {}, pages = {7}, pmid = {17302972}, issn = {1748-717X}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation ; Female ; Humans ; Kidney Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Male ; Medical Oncology/methods ; Pediatrics/methods ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated/*methods ; Rhabdomyosarcoma/radiotherapy ; Sarcoma, Ewing/radiotherapy ; Thoracic Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods ; Wilms Tumor/radiotherapy ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: To evaluate the performance of seven different TPS (Treatment Planning Systems: Corvus, Eclipse, Hyperion, KonRad, Oncentra Masterplan, Pinnacle and PrecisePLAN) when intensity modulated (IMRT) plans are designed for paediatric tumours.<br><br>METHODS: Datasets (CT images and volumes of interest) of four patients were used to design IMRT plans. The tumour types were: one extraosseous, intrathoracic Ewing Sarcoma; one mediastinal Rhabdomyosarcoma; one metastatic Rhabdomyosarcoma of the anus; one Wilm's tumour of the left kidney with multiple liver metastases. Prescribed doses ranged from 18 to 54.4 Gy. To minimise variability, the same beam geometry and clinical goals were imposed on all systems for every patient. Results were analysed in terms of dose distributions and dose volume histograms.<br><br>RESULTS: For all patients, IMRT plans lead to acceptable treatments in terms of conformal avoidance since most of the dose objectives for Organs At Risk (OARs) were met, and the Conformity Index (averaged over all TPS and patients) ranged from 1.14 to 1.58 on primary target volumes and from 1.07 to 1.37 on boost volumes. The healthy tissue involvement was measured in terms of several parameters, and the average mean dose ranged from 4.6 to 13.7 Gy. A global scoring method was developed to evaluate plans according to their degree of success in meeting dose objectives (lower scores are better than higher ones). For OARs the range of scores was between 0.75 +/- 0.15 (Eclipse) to 0.92 +/- 0.18 (Pinnacle(3) with physical optimisation). For target volumes, the score ranged from 0.05 +/- 0.05 (Pinnacle(3) with physical optimisation) to 0.16 +/- 0.07 (Corvus).<br><br>CONCLUSION: A set of complex paediatric cases presented a variety of individual treatment planning challenges. Despite the large spread of results, inverse planning systems offer promising results for IMRT delivery, hence widening the treatment strategies for this very sensitive class of patients.}, }
@article {pmid17294146, year = {2007}, author = {Scheithauer, MO and Tasman, AJ}, title = {[Endoscopic forehead lifting: surgical anatomy and technique].}, journal = {HNO}, volume = {55}, number = {3}, pages = {225-33; quiz 234}, pmid = {17294146}, issn = {1433-0458}, mesh = {Blepharoplasty/*methods ; Blepharoptosis/*pathology/*surgery ; Endoscopy/*methods ; Forehead/*abnormalities/*surgery ; Humans ; Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Practice Patterns, Physicians' ; Plastic Surgery Procedures/*methods ; }, abstract = {Endoscopic forehead lifting is a widely accepted treatment for brow ptosis. The procedure safely and effectively corrects horizontal forehead rhytids, brow ptosis, upper eyelid dermatochalasis and periorbital crow's feet. The result is a refreshed and more open facial expression. A thorough understanding of basic facial anatomy is the key to successful cosmetic surgery. The procedure is based on a subperiostal and preperiosteal mobilisation of the temporal and frontal soft tissues and a detachment of the periosteum of the orbital rim. An upper eyelid blepharoplasty and selective incomplete or complete myotomies of the corrugator and procerus muscles may be incorporated in the operation. Most surgeons prefer to fixate the elevated soft tissue planes to the calvarium by sutures, titanium or resorbabale polyglactid anchors. While initial enthusiasm for this procedure seems to be declining in several countries, few ENT-surgeons are familiar with this technique in Europe. This article reviews the surgical anatomy of the forehead and temporoparietal region by means of cadaver dissection and describes the surgical procedure for German speaking readers.}, }
@article {pmid17289982, year = {2007}, author = {Service, RF}, title = {Jay Keasling profile. Rethinking mother nature's choices.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {315}, number = {5813}, pages = {793}, doi = {10.1126/science.315.5813.793}, pmid = {17289982}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {*Biotechnology ; *Energy-Generating Resources ; Ethanol/metabolism ; *Genetic Engineering ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Hydrocarbons/metabolism ; *Industrial Microbiology ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid17284404, year = {2007}, author = {Hunt, GR and Gray, RD}, title = {Parallel tool industries in New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {3}, number = {2}, pages = {173-175}, pmid = {17284404}, issn = {1744-9561}, mesh = {Animals ; Chi-Square Distribution ; Crows/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; New Caledonia ; Plant Leaves ; Plant Stems ; Sex Factors ; Tool Use Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Individual specialization in the use of foraging tools occurs in hunter-gatherer societies but is absent in non-human primate tool use. 'Parallel tool industries' in hunter-gatherers are mainly based on strict sexual division of labour that is highly reliant on social conformity. Here, we show that 12 individuals in a population of New Caledonian crows on Maré Island had strong preferences for either stick tools or pandanus tools. Eight of the 12 crows had exclusive preferences. The individual specialization that we found is probably associated with different foraging niches. However, in spite of sexual size dimorphism there was no significant association between the sex of crows and their tool preferences. Our findings demonstrate that highly organized, strict sexual division of labour is not a necessary prerequisite for the evolution of parallel tool industries.}, }
@article {pmid17283401, year = {2007}, author = {Sato, Y and Hagihara, M and Yamaguchi, T and Yukawa, M and Murata, K}, title = {Phylogenetic comparison of Leucocytozoon spp. from wild birds of Japan.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {69}, number = {1}, pages = {55-59}, doi = {10.1292/jvms.69.55}, pmid = {17283401}, issn = {0916-7250}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; Birds/*parasitology ; Cluster Analysis ; Cytochromes b/genetics ; DNA Primers ; Haemosporida/classification/*genetics ; Japan ; Molecular Sequence Data ; *Phylogeny ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Eight species of Japanese birds were found to be infected with Leucocytozoon species using microscopic analysis. We used PCR and sequence analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (cyt b) to compare the genetic background among these detected protozoa species. In 20 individuals of 22 samples, a single amplified band was detected from 6 of 8 bird species; 9 Japanese rock ptarmigans (Lagopus mutus japonicus), 4 large-billed crows (Corvus macrorhynchos), 2 carrion crows (C. corone), 2 scops owls (Otus scops), 1 Japanese grosbeak (Eophona personata), and 2 brown-eared bulbuls (Hypsipetes amaurotis), respectively. Phylogenetic analysis based on the partial cyt b sequences revealed that all Leucocytozoon isolates in Japan closely grouped with other Leucocytozoon species previously reported in the literature. Among the Japanese isolates, the phylogenetic tree suggested that L. lovati from the Japanese rock ptarmigan may be basal to the parasites found in other bird species. Our study is the first to identify the molecular relationships among Leucocytozoon parasites in the avifauna of Japan.}, }
@article {pmid17278520, year = {2007}, author = {Liu, Q and McDermott, P and Burmeister, J}, title = {Effect of respiratory motion on the delivery of breast radiotherapy using SMLC intensity modulation.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {34}, number = {1}, pages = {347-351}, doi = {10.1118/1.2405323}, pmid = {17278520}, issn = {0094-2405}, mesh = {*Artifacts ; Breast Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Computer Simulation ; Female ; Humans ; *Models, Biological ; *Movement ; Radiometry/*methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; *Respiratory Mechanics ; }, abstract = {This study evaluates the effects of respiratory motion on breast radiotherapy delivered using segmented multileaf collimator (SMLC) intensity modulation. An anthropomorphic breast phantom was constructed of polystyrene plates between which radiographic films were inserted. The phantom was mounted on a moving platform to simulate one-dimensional sinusoidal oscillation with variable amplitude and frequency. The motion effect on two breast IMRT techniques, a beamlet-based plan created using the Corvus treatment planning system and an aperture-based plan, was evaluated via film comparison. Motion-induced differences in the treatment region are generally within +5%, with the exception of the posterior field edge and the apex of the breast in the Corvus IMRT plan. Considering the experimental uncertainty arising from the setup and film dosimetry, this result indicates that respiratory motion-induced dose variations are generally relatively insignificant. It appears that the anterior hot spots observed in the Corvus IMRT plan result from the high intensity fluence delivered to the "virtual bolus" area which must be created during the planning process in order to provide "flash" for the respiratory motion. The potential magnitude of such effects resulting from the interplay between fluence modulation and patient motion are unique to the individual planning system and planning technique, as well as the delivery equipment and technique. Such effects should be carefully investigated prior to the implementation of IMRT for breast radiotherapy.}, }
@article {pmid17275112, year = {2007}, author = {Sheng, K and Molloy, JA and Larner, JM and Read, PW}, title = {A dosimetric comparison of non-coplanar IMRT versus Helical Tomotherapy for nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer.}, journal = {Radiotherapy and oncology : journal of the European Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology}, volume = {82}, number = {2}, pages = {174-178}, doi = {10.1016/j.radonc.2007.01.008}, pmid = {17275112}, issn = {0167-8140}, mesh = {Humans ; Nose Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Radiometry ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; *Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated ; *Tomography, Spiral Computed ; }, abstract = {PURPOSES: To determine if there are clinically significant differences between the dosimetry of sinus tumors delivered by non-coplanar LINAC-based IMRT techniques and Helical Tomotherapy (HT). HT is capable of delivering highly conformal and uniform target dosimetry. However, HT lacks non-coplanar capability, which is commonly used for linear accelerator-based IMRT for nasal cavity and paranasal sinus tumors.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: We selected 10 patients with representative early and advanced nasal cavity and paranasal sinus malignancies treated with a preoperative dose of 50 Gy/25 fractions without coverage of the cervical lymphatics for dosimetric comparison. Each plan was independently optimized using either Corvus inverse treatment planning system, commissioned for a Varian 2300 CD linear accelerator with 1cm multileaf collimator (MLC) leaves, or the HT inverse treatment planning system. A non-coplanar seven field technique was used in all Corvus plans with five mid-sagittal fields and two anterior oblique fields as described by Claus et al. [F. Claus, W. De Gersem, C. De Wagter, et al., An implementation strategy for IMRT of ethmoid sinus cancer and bilateral sparing of the optic pathways, Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 51 (2001) 318-331], whereas only coplanar beamlets were used in HT planning. Dose plans were compared using DVHs, the minimum PTV dose to 1cm3 of the PTV, a uniformity index of planned treatment volume (PTV), and a comprehensive quality index (CQI) based on the maximum dose to optical structures, parotids and the brainstem which were deemed as the most critical adjacent structures.<br><br>RESULTS: Both planning systems showed comparable PTV dose coverage, but HT had significantly higher uniformity (p<0.01) inside the PTV. The CQI for all organs at risk were equivalent except ipsilateral lenses and eyes, which received statistically lower dose from HT plans (p<0.01).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Overall HT provided equivalent or slightly better normal structure avoidance with a more uniform PTV dose for nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer treatment than non-coplanar LINAC-based IMRT. The disadvantage of coplanar geometry in HT is apparently counterbalanced by the larger number of fields.}, }
@article {pmid17264697, year = {2007}, author = {Eiser, AR and Ellis, G}, title = {Viewpoint: Cultural competence and the African American experience with health care: The case for specific content in cross-cultural education.}, journal = {Academic medicine : journal of the Association of American Medical Colleges}, volume = {82}, number = {2}, pages = {176-183}, doi = {10.1097/ACM.0b013e31802d92ea}, pmid = {17264697}, issn = {1040-2446}, mesh = {Black or African American/*ethnology/*psychology ; Attitude to Health/ethnology ; Cultural Characteristics ; Delivery of Health Care/*organization &amp; administration ; Education, Medical/*organization &amp; administration ; Humans ; Physician-Patient Relations ; Religion ; United States ; }, abstract = {Achieving cultural competence in the care of a patient who is a member of an ethnic or racial minority is a multifaceted project involving specific cultural knowledge as well as more general skills and attitude adjustments to advance cross-cultural communication in the clinical encounter. Using the important example of the African American patient, the authors examine relevant historical and cultural information as it relates to providing culturally competent health care. The authors identify key influences, including the legacy of slavery, Jim Crow discrimination, the Tuskegee syphilis study, religion's interaction with health care, the use of home remedies, distrust, racial concordance and discordance, and health literacy. The authors propose that the awareness of specific information pertaining to ethnicity and race enhances cross-cultural communication and ways to improve the cultural competence of physicians and other health care providers by providing a historical and social context for illness in another culture. Cultural education, modular in nature, can be geared to the specific populations served by groups of physicians and provider organizations. Educational methods should include both information about relevant social group history as well as some experiential component to emotively communicate particular cultural needs. The authors describe particular techniques that help bridge the cross-cultural clinical communication gaps that are created by patients' mistrust, lack of cultural understanding, differing paradigms for illness, and health illiteracy.}, }
@article {pmid17263891, year = {2007}, author = {David, ST and Mak, S and MacDougall, L and Fyfe, M}, title = {A bird's eye view: using geographic analysis to evaluate the representativeness of corvid indicators for West Nile virus surveillance.}, journal = {International journal of health geographics}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {3}, pmid = {17263891}, issn = {1476-072X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; British Columbia/epidemiology ; Geographic Information Systems ; Population Surveillance/methods ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The objective of this evaluation was to determine whether reports of dead corvid sightings and submissions of dead corvids for West Nile virus testing were representative of true corvid mortality in British Columbia in 2004, a year with no West Nile virus activity, in order to ensure the system was accurately describing corvid mortality rather than reflecting regional differences in surveillance methods.<br><br>RESULTS: Local Health Areas reported 0-159 (median = 3) dead corvid sightings and 0-209 (median = 5) submissions for West Nile virus testing. The expected numbers of dead corvid sightings and submissions for testing from each Local Health Area were 0-232 (median = 3) and 0-258 (median = 4), respectively. Twelve Local Health Areas reported significantly fewer sightings than expected; 21 reported significantly more. Eleven Local Health Areas submitted significantly fewer corvids than expected; 26 submitted significantly more.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Some Local Health Areas were over-represented and others under-represented in terms of corvid West Nile virus surveillance indicators. Recommendations were made to improve the representativeness of corvid surveillance data. Geographic analysis can be used to evaluate the representativeness of surveillance systems and result in improvements to surveillance.}, }
@article {pmid17258241, year = {2007}, author = {Burke, MR and Adkins-Regan, E and Wade, J}, title = {Laterality in syrinx muscle morphology of the Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica).}, journal = {Physiology &amp; behavior}, volume = {90}, number = {4}, pages = {682-686}, pmid = {17258241}, issn = {0031-9384}, support = {MH065907/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH055488/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R29 MH055488/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; K02 MH065907/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; MH55488/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Androgens/pharmacology ; Animals ; Coturnix/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Female ; Functional Laterality/drug effects/*physiology ; Laryngeal Muscles/*anatomy &amp; histology/drug effects ; Male ; Sex Characteristics ; Testosterone/pharmacology ; Vocalization, Animal/drug effects/*physiology ; }, abstract = {In the Japanese quail, normally only males crow, but treatment of adult females with testosterone (T) facilitates the behavior. The sternotrachealis muscles are thought to adjust the length of the trachea during inspiration and/or expiration and control rigidity of the cartilages of the vocal organ (syrinx) during phonation. These muscles are heavier in males than females, and T increases their mass in females [Balthazart J, Schumacher M, Otttinger MA. Sexual differences in the japanese quail: Behavior, morphology, and intracellular metabolism of testosterone. Gen Comp Endocrinol 1983; 51:191-207., Schumacher M, Balthazart J. The effects of testosterone and its metabolites on sexual behavior and morphology in male and female Japanese quail. Physiol Behav 1983; 30:335-339.]. To investigate sex differences in morphology and potential effects of T in more detail, we examined several components of male, female, and T-treated female quail syrinx. No group effects were detected on overall tracheal size, size of the tracheal lumen, quantity of cartilage, overall muscle volume, or cross-sectional muscle area. However, the area and estimated volume of the muscles were greater on the right than left, due to increased fiber number. The similarity across groups suggests that if the sternotrachealis muscles are critical for crowing, morphology in females is sufficient, and the sex difference in behavior has another source. In contrast, these muscles may not play as large a role as previously hypothesized. If the increased number of fibers on the right has a functional consequence, it likely reflects one similar in the two sexes, for example a common role in the vocalizations they each produce--the male's crow and the female's cricket call.}, }
@article {pmid17255008, year = {2007}, author = {Emery, NJ and Seed, AM and von Bayern, AM and Clayton, NS}, title = {Cognitive adaptations of social bonding in birds.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {362}, number = {1480}, pages = {489-505}, pmid = {17255008}, issn = {0962-8436}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology ; *Cognition ; Cooperative Behavior ; *Pair Bond ; *Social Behavior ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The 'social intelligence hypothesis' was originally conceived to explain how primates may have evolved their superior intellect and large brains when compared with other animals. Although some birds such as corvids may be intellectually comparable to apes, the same relationship between sociality and brain size seen in primates has not been found for birds, possibly suggesting a role for other non-social factors. But bird sociality is different from primate sociality. Most monkeys and apes form stable groups, whereas most birds are monogamous, and only form large flocks outside of the breeding season. Some birds form lifelong pair bonds and these species tend to have the largest brains relative to body size. Some of these species are known for their intellectual abilities (e.g. corvids and parrots), while others are not (e.g. geese and albatrosses). Although socio-ecological factors may explain some of the differences in brain size and intelligence between corvids/parrots and geese/albatrosses, we predict that the type and quality of the bonded relationship is also critical. Indeed, we present empirical evidence that rook and jackdaw partnerships resemble primate and dolphin alliances. Although social interactions within a pair may seem simple on the surface, we argue that cognition may play an important role in the maintenance of long-term relationships, something we name as 'relationship intelligence'.}, }
@article {pmid17243125, year = {2007}, author = {Edgar, HJ}, title = {Microevolution of African American dental morphology.}, journal = {American journal of physical anthropology}, volume = {132}, number = {4}, pages = {535-544}, doi = {10.1002/ajpa.20550}, pmid = {17243125}, issn = {0002-9483}, mesh = {Africa, Western/ethnology ; Black or African American/*genetics ; *Biological Evolution ; *Emigration and Immigration ; Europe/ethnology ; *Fossils ; Humans ; Odontometry ; *Phenotype ; Principal Component Analysis ; Tooth/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {The African American (AA) gene pool is primarily the result of gene flow between two biologically disparate groups: West Africans (WA) and Americans of western European descent (EA). This research utilizes characteristics of dental morphology to trace genetic relationships among WA, western Europeans (EU), AA, and European Americans. Dental morphological traits are useful for this purpose because they are heritable, do not remodel during life (although they can be lost to wear or pathology), and can be compared equally among samples from past and present populations. The results of this research provide new information about human microevolution through time and space in a biocultural setting. The mean measure of divergence is used to analyze dental morphological data from 1,265 individuals in 25 samples grouped by ancestry and time. Three hypotheses associated with admixture in AA are tested. When compared with known history, results from dental morphological data are equivocal in documenting admixture in AA. Dental morphological traits do appear to reflect admixture in AA. However, changes in trait frequencies do not closely correspond with important cultural events and trends such as the institutionalized racism of the Civil War and Jim Crow era. Results are mixed concerning whether AA with greater admixture were more likely to take part in the Great Migration to southern urban centers and to the North.}, }
@article {pmid17242935, year = {2007}, author = {Zucca, P and Milos, N and Vallortigara, G}, title = {Piagetian object permanence and its development in Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {243-258}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-006-0063-2}, pmid = {17242935}, issn = {1435-9448}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Birds/*physiology ; *Cognition ; *Cues ; }, abstract = {Object permanence in Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius) was investigated using a complete version of the Uzgiris and Hunt scale 1. Nine hand-raised jays were studied, divided into two groups according to their different developmental stages (experiment 1, older jays: 2-3 months old, n = 4; experiment 2, younger jays: 15 days old, n = 5). In the first experiment, we investigated whether older jays could achieve piagetian stage 6 of object permanence. Tasks were administered in a fixed sequence (1-15) according to the protocols used in other avian species. The aim of the second experiment was to check whether testing very young jays before their development of "neophobia" could influence the achievement times of piagetian stages. Furthermore, in this experiment tasks were administered randomly to investigate whether the jays' achievement of stage 6 follows a fixed sequence related to the development of specific cognitive abilities. All jays tested in experiments 1 and 2 fully achieved piagetian stage 6 and no "A not B" errors were observed. Performance on visible displacement tasks was better than performance on invisible ones. The results of experiment 2 show that "neophobia" affected the response of jays in terms of achievement times; the older jays in experiment 1 took longer to pass all the tasks when compared with the younger, less neophobic, jays in experiment 2. With regard to the achieving order, jays followed a fixed sequence of acquisition in experiment 2, even if tasks were administered randomly, with the exception of one subject. The results of these experiments support the idea that piagetian stages of cognitive development exist in avian species and that they progress through relatively fixed sequences.}, }
@article {pmid17241644, year = {2007}, author = {Feng, X and Li, Y and Gu, J and Zhuo, Y and Yang, H}, title = {Error thresholds for quasispecies on single peak Gaussian-distributed fitness landscapes.}, journal = {Journal of theoretical biology}, volume = {246}, number = {1}, pages = {28-32}, doi = {10.1016/j.jtbi.2006.12.016}, pmid = {17241644}, issn = {0022-5193}, mesh = {Animals ; *Computer Simulation ; Environment ; *Genetic Speciation ; Genetics, Population ; Humans ; *Models, Genetic ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {Based on the Eigen and Crow-Kimura models with a single peak fitness landscape, we propose that the fitness values of all molecules be Gaussian distributed random variables to incorporate the fluctuation effects of the fitness landscapes (noise of environments). And we investigate the quasispecies distribution and error threshold using ensemble average method within this theoretical framework. Numerical results show that a small fluctuation of the fitness landscape causes only a slight change in the concentration distribution and error threshold, which implies that the error threshold is stable against small perturbations. However, for a sizable fluctuation, quite different from the previous deterministic models, our statistical results reveal that the transition from quasi-species to error catastrophe is no longer so sharp, indicating the error threshold is located within a certain range and shifts toward a larger value.}, }
@article {pmid17240341, year = {2007}, author = {Seed, AM and Clayton, NS and Emery, NJ}, title = {Postconflict third-party affiliation in rooks, Corvus frugilegus.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {152-158}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2006.11.025}, pmid = {17240341}, issn = {0960-9822}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Female ; Male ; Pair Bond ; *Social Behavior ; Stress, Physiological/*prevention &amp; control ; }, abstract = {Conflict features in the lives of many animal species and induces social stress mediated by glucocorticoid hormones [1]. Postconflict affiliation, between former opponents (reconciliation) or between former opponents and a bystander (third-party affiliation), has been suggested as a behavioral mechanism for reducing such stress [2], but has been studied almost exclusively in primates [3]. As with many primates, several bird species live in social groups and form affiliative relationships [4]. Do these distantly related animals also use affiliative behavior to offset the costs of conflict? We studied postconflict affiliation in a captive group of rooks. Unlike polygamous primates, monogamous rooks did not reconcile with former opponents. However, we found clear evidence of third-party affiliation after conflicts. Both initiators and targets of aggression engaged in third-party affiliation with a social partner and employed a specific behavior, bill twining, during the postconflict period. Both former aggressors and uninvolved third parties initiated affiliative contacts. Despite the long history of evolutionary divergence, the pattern of third-party affiliation in rooks is strikingly similar to that observed in tolerant primate species. Furthermore, the absence of reconciliation in rooks makes sense in light of the species differences in social systems.}, }
@article {pmid17237684, year = {2007}, author = {Arat, YO and Yen, MT}, title = {Effect of botulinum toxin type a on tear production after treatment of lateral canthal rhytids.}, journal = {Ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {22-24}, doi = {10.1097/IOP.0b013e31802dfca7}, pmid = {17237684}, issn = {0740-9303}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Dry Eye Syndromes/chemically induced ; *Eyelids ; Facial Muscles/drug effects ; Female ; Humans ; Injections ; Lacrimal Apparatus/drug effects ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Tears/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To evaluate the incidence of temporary dry eye and the effects on lacrimal gland tear production after treatment of lateral canthal rhytids with botulinum toxin type A injections.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty-six crow's feet areas were injected with botulinum toxin type A in 13 women with an age range of 31 to 58 years. A total of 10 units of botulinum toxin was injected per side, with two separate injections. Schirmer 1 testing was performed before and at 1 week, 1 month, and 4 months after the injections in all patients. The test was repeated at 6 months and 9 months for the patients whose Schirmer test results were not back to baseline at the 4-month follow-up. Statistical significance was evaluated with paired t test analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: Overall, no statistical difference was found in Schirmer test results from baseline at 1 week (p = 0.23), 1 month (p = 0.32), or 4 months (p = 0.30) after injection. Five eyes of three patients had a significant decrease in Schirmer test results from baseline at 1 week and 1 month after injection. Three eyes of 2 patients had a significant decrease in Schirmer test results at 4 months after injection. Only one patient reported dry-eye symptoms at the 4-month follow-up. Schirmer test results of two eyes of one patient remained significantly lower than baseline at 6 months follow-up, which returned to the normal range at 9 months.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Botulinum toxin for lateral canthal rhytids usually does not suppress tear production. However, decreased tear production after botulinum toxin injection for crow's feet is a possible complication and patients should be advised of the small but definite risk of a temporary dry eye.}, }
@article {pmid17228608, year = {2006}, author = {Tomei, G and Tecchio, F and Zappasodi, F and Ercolani, M and Moffa, F and Chiovenda, P and Ciarrocca, M}, title = {[Exposure to traffic noise and effects on attention].}, journal = {Annali di igiene : medicina preventiva e di comunita}, volume = {18}, number = {6}, pages = {507-519}, pmid = {17228608}, issn = {1120-9135}, mesh = {Adult ; *Attention ; Automobiles ; Case-Control Studies ; *Cognition ; Event-Related Potentials, P300 ; Evoked Potentials, Auditory ; Female ; Humans ; Italy ; Male ; Mental Fatigue/physiopathology ; Middle Aged ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Noise, Transportation/*adverse effects ; Psychomotor Performance ; Reaction Time ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Urban Health ; }, abstract = {This study was aimed to evaluate if workers exposed to environmental stressors, including the urban traffic noise, might show significant differences compared to a control group in neuro-psychological and emotional profile as well as neurophysiological functions. In particular if these differences could be evidenced by the application of the "oddball paradigm" for event related potential P300 component. The study consisted of the following examinations: (1) exposed workers vs. controls under the odd-ball paradigm and the Stroop test in baseline condition; (2) amplitude and latency ofP300 (in baseline condition and after administration of acute urban traffic noise and Stroop test). The research was carried on a sample of 81 volunteers: 39 workers exposed to environmental stressors and 42 controls. The phonometric measurements showed mean levels of noise due urban traffic like 74 dBAeq. In baseline condition significative differences in exposed workers vs. control were found in Raven's Matrices PM 38 (p = 0.002) and Arithmetic reasoning from WAIS-R (p = 0.0024). Attention capacities as measured by Digit Span Forward and Visual Search, emotional functioning as measured by state- and trait-anxiety test and mood profile were not different in the two groups. Either in baseline condition or after acute stimuli no significant changes were found in two groups concerning the odd-ball paradigm. Exposed workers showed a higher execution time at Stroop test compared to controls (p = 0.047). No differences were found in the number of errors at the Stroop test. Before the acute stimulus, P300 amplitude was significant higher in the exposed workers than in controls (p = 0.002) while the latency was not different between two groups. Both noise (p = 0.001) and Stroop test (p = 0.002) stimulation increased the P300 latency of the whole sample, without significant differences between exposed workers and controls. A significative decrease of P300 amplitude due noise both in the exposed workers (p = 0.001) and in controls (p = 0.012) was found, without significant difference between the two groups. These results are interpreted as follows: (1) there are chronic effects on cognitive functioning in the exposed group vs. controls in baseline condition, like showed by significant differences in Raven PM38 and WAIS-R; (2) the exposed workers have a smaller cognitive flexibility, as shown by the Stroop test results; (3) in baseline condition the greater P300 amplitude in exposed workers reflect a greater division of attentive resources vs. controls, probably linked to the chronic stimulation by environmental stressors, especially noise, to which these workers are exposed; (4) the effects on P300 latency and amplitude can document the physiological response both in the exposed and not exposed to the acute stimulus and that the lack of significative differences in P300 latency and amplitude may be due to adaptative response to acute stimuli in exposed too. Our results allow us to consider that in workers exposed to urban stressor, such as noise, there are effects on cognitive functioning, especially on attention, without auditory damages. The valuation of P300 might represent a valid diagnostic instrument to evaluate the effects on cognitive functions especially on attention, in workers chronically and acutely exposed to urban stressors.}, }
@article {pmid17215946, year = {2007}, author = {Yamilov, AG and Bertino, MF}, title = {Disorder-immune coupled resonator optical waveguide.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {32}, number = {3}, pages = {283-285}, doi = {10.1364/ol.32.000283}, pmid = {17215946}, issn = {0146-9592}, abstract = {We demonstrate that a photonic lattice with short- and long-range harmonic modulations of the refractive index facilitates formation of flat photonic bands and leads to slow propagation of light. The system can be considered a coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW): photonic bands with abnormally small dispersion are created due to the interaction of long-lived states in the cavity regions via weak coupling across tunneling barriers. Unlike previous CROW implementations, the proposed structures can be fabricated with interference photolithography (holography), sidestepping the issue of resonator-to-resonator fluctuation of the system parameters. The proposed holography-based approach enables fabrication of arrays with a large number of coupled optical resonators, which is necessary for practical applications.}, }
@article {pmid17208626, year = {2007}, author = {Farrell, B and Duley, L}, title = {Doing the undoable: Magpie Trial long-term follow-up.}, journal = {Lancet (London, England)}, volume = {369}, number = {9555}, pages = {13-14}, doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(07)60010-5}, pmid = {17208626}, issn = {1474-547X}, support = {G116/98/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Eclampsia/*prevention &amp; control ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Magnesium Sulfate/*therapeutic use ; Pre-Eclampsia/*drug therapy ; Pregnancy ; }, }
@article {pmid17208466, year = {2007}, author = {Piazzini, A and Ramaglia, G and Turner, K and Chifari, R and Kiky, EE and Canger, R and Canevini, MP}, title = {Coping strategies in epilepsy: 50 drug-resistant and 50 seizure-free patients.}, journal = {Seizure}, volume = {16}, number = {3}, pages = {211-217}, doi = {10.1016/j.seizure.2006.12.003}, pmid = {17208466}, issn = {1059-1311}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Psychological ; Adult ; Anticonvulsants/therapeutic use ; Drug Resistance ; Epilepsy/drug therapy/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Psychological Tests ; Quality of Life/*psychology ; Self Concept ; Self Efficacy ; Sex Factors ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {We investigated the coping styles and their correlation to psycho-social functioning in two groups of patients, the first group with drug-resistant epilepsy and the second with well-controlled epilepsy. The instruments administered were the following: the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (non-verbal intelligence), the Echelle Toulousaine de Coping, ETC (coping styles), the Self-esteem Questionnaire (self-esteem), the Self-efficacy Questionnaire (social self-efficacy), a Quality of Life Measure and a semi-structured interview on psycho-social adjustment. We found a significant difference in coping responses between the two groups: drug-resistant patients seemed to adopt the "denial" and the "exclusion" strategies more (P<0.05). On the contrary, seizure-free subjects used the "control" strategy more (P<0.05). A significant correlation between disengagement patterns and poorer social outcomes was pointed out, while "control" was associated with better social adaptation. Our findings provide evidence of the importance of coping assessment, considering the influence of these strategies on the well being of patients. Offering psychological support to epilepsy patients should be considered when orientating the effectiveness of the patients' coping styles.}, }
@article {pmid17186518, year = {2007}, author = {}, title = {Proceedings of a symposium in recognition of Professor Jay S. Rosenblatt held at the 2005 meeting of the International Society for Developmental Psychobiology.}, journal = {Developmental psychobiology}, volume = {49}, number = {1}, pages = {1-70}, doi = {10.1002/dev.20191}, pmid = {17186518}, issn = {0012-1630}, mesh = {Animals ; Developmental Biology ; Female ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; *Maternal Behavior ; Psychology ; }, }
@article {pmid17186513, year = {2007}, author = {Numan, M}, title = {Motivational systems and the neural circuitry of maternal behavior in the rat.}, journal = {Developmental psychobiology}, volume = {49}, number = {1}, pages = {12-21}, doi = {10.1002/dev.20198}, pmid = {17186513}, issn = {0012-1630}, mesh = {Amygdala/physiology ; Animals ; Animals, Newborn ; Behavior, Animal/drug effects/*physiology ; Female ; Maternal Behavior/drug effects/*physiology ; Models, Animal ; Neurons/*physiology ; Nucleus Accumbens/physiology ; Preoptic Area/physiology ; Rats ; Receptors, Dopamine/physiology ; }, abstract = {Jay Rosenblatt's approach-avoidance model of maternal behavior proposes that maternal behavior occurs when the tendency to approach infant stimuli is greater than the tendency to avoid such stimuli. Our research program has uncovered neural circuits which conform to such a model. We present evidence that the medial preoptic area (MPOA: located in the rostral hypothalamus) may regulate maternal responsiveness by depressing antagonistic neural systems which promote withdrawal responses while also activating appetitive neural systems which increase the attractiveness of infant-related stimuli. These MPOA circuits are activated by the hormonal events of late pregnancy. Preoptic efferents may suppress a central aversion system which includes an amygdala to anterior hypothalamic circuit. Preoptic efferents are also shown to interact with components of the mesolimbic dopamine (DA) system to regulate proactive voluntary maternal responses. We make a distinction between specific (MPOA neurons) and nonspecific motivational systems (mesolimbic DA system) in the regulation of maternal responsiveness.}, }
@article {pmid17186510, year = {2007}, author = {Fleming, AS}, title = {The three faces of Jay S. Rosenblatt.}, journal = {Developmental psychobiology}, volume = {49}, number = {1}, pages = {2-11}, doi = {10.1002/dev.20193}, pmid = {17186510}, issn = {0012-1630}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Biological Psychiatry/*history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Maternal Behavior/*physiology/psychology ; Paintings/history ; Psychoanalysis/history ; United States ; }, abstract = {This essay provides an account of the development of Jay S. Rosenblatt's approach and contributions to the study of maternal behavior and the mother-young relationship, focusing on the role in that development of his life as painter, analyst, and scientist. It is personal perspective.}, }
@article {pmid17176961, year = {2006}, author = {Rahman, ML and Sugita, S and Aoyama, M and Sugita, S}, title = {Number, distribution and size of retinal ganglion cells in the jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Anatomical science international}, volume = {81}, number = {4}, pages = {253-259}, doi = {10.1111/j.1447-073X.2006.00151.x}, pmid = {17176961}, issn = {1447-6959}, mesh = {Animals ; Axons/physiology/ultrastructure ; Brain Mapping ; Cell Count ; Cell Size ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Female ; Fovea Centralis/cytology/physiology ; Male ; Neural Pathways/cytology/physiology ; Optic Disk/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Optic Nerve/cytology/physiology ; Retinal Ganglion Cells/*cytology/physiology ; Species Specificity ; Vision, Binocular/physiology ; Visual Fields/*physiology ; Visual Pathways/cytology/physiology ; }, abstract = {A retinal ganglion cell density map was generated using Nissl-stained retinal whole mounts from the jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos). The total number, distribution and size of these cells were determined in the area centralis, as well as in temporal, nasal, dorsal and ventral retinal regions. The mean total number of ganglion cells was estimated to be 3.6 x 10(6). The highest densities were found in the area centralis (25 600 /mm2) and the dorso-temporal part of the retina, suggesting the highest quality of vision. This density diminished nearly concentrically from the central area towards the retinal periphery. The number of ganglion cells was highest in the temporal retina followed, in order, by the nasal, dorsal and ventral retinal regions. Based on ganglion cell size, the retina seemed to consist of the following five regions: central, temporal, nasal, dorsal and ventral. Ganglion cell size ranged from 16 to 288 microm2, with smaller cells predominating in central regions above the optic disc and larger cells comprising more of the peripheral regions. The present study showed two highly populated areas of ganglion cells in the crow retina and it is expected that the crow retina provides well-developed monocular and binocular vision.}, }
@article {pmid17174112, year = {2007}, author = {Treplin, S and Tiedemann, R}, title = {Specific chicken repeat 1 (CR1) retrotransposon insertion suggests phylogenetic affinity of rockfowls (genus Picathartes) to crows and ravens (Corvidae).}, journal = {Molecular phylogenetics and evolution}, volume = {43}, number = {1}, pages = {328-337}, doi = {10.1016/j.ympev.2006.10.020}, pmid = {17174112}, issn = {1055-7903}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; Bayes Theorem ; Blotting, Southern ; Cloning, Molecular ; Crows/classification/*genetics ; DNA Primers ; Likelihood Functions ; Models, Genetic ; Molecular Sequence Data ; *Phylogeny ; Retroelements/*genetics ; Sequence Alignment ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {While the monophyly of the order Passeriformes as well as its suborders suboscines (Tyranni) and oscines (Passeri) is well established, both on morphological and molecular grounds, lower phylogenetic relationships have been a continuous matter of debate, especially within oscines. This is particularly true for the rockfowls (genus Picathartes), which phylogenetic classification has been an ongoing puzzle. Sequence-based molecular studies failed in deriving unambiguously resolved and supported hypotheses. We present here a novel approach: use of retrotransposon insertions as phylogenetic markers in passerine birds. Chicken repeat 1 (CR1) is the most important non-LTR retrotransposon in birds. We present two truncated CR1 loci in passerine birds, not only found in representatives of Corvinae (jays, crows and allies), but also in the West-African Picathartes species which provide new evidence for a closer relationship of these species to Corvidae than has previously been thought. Additionally, we show that not only the absence/presence pattern of a CR1 insertion, but also the CR1 sequences themselves contain phylogenetic information.}, }
@article {pmid17171360, year = {2007}, author = {Tebbich, S and Seed, AM and Emery, NJ and Clayton, NS}, title = {Non-tool-using rooks, Corvus frugilegus, solve the trap-tube problem.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {225-231}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-006-0061-4}, pmid = {17171360}, issn = {1435-9448}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The trap-tube problem is used to assess whether an individual is able to foresee the outcome of its actions. To solve the task, an animal must use a tool to push a piece of food out of a tube, which has a trap along its length. An animal may learn to avoid the trap through a rule based on associative processes, e.g. using the distance of trap or food as a cue, or by understanding relations between cause and effect. This task has been used to test physical cognition in a number of tool-using species, but never a non-tool-user. We developed an experimental design that enabled us to test non-tool-using rooks, Corvus frugilegus. Our modification of the task removed the cognitive requirements of active tool use but still allowed us to test whether rooks can solve the trap-tube problem, and if so how. Additionally, we developed two new control tasks to determine whether rooks were able to transfer knowledge to similar, but novel problems, thus revealing more about the mechanisms involved in solving the task. We found that three out of seven rooks solved the modified trap-tube problem task, showing that the ability to solve the trap-tube problem is not restricted to tool-using animals. We found no evidence that the birds solved the task using an understanding of its causal properties, given that none of the birds passed the novel transfer tasks.}, }
@article {pmid17166221, year = {2007}, author = {, }, title = {The Magpie Trial: a randomised trial comparing magnesium sulphate with placebo for pre-eclampsia. Outcome for children at 18 months.}, journal = {BJOG : an international journal of obstetrics and gynaecology}, volume = {114}, number = {3}, pages = {289-299}, pmid = {17166221}, issn = {1470-0328}, support = {G116/98/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Anticonvulsants/*adverse effects ; Disability Evaluation ; Children with Disabilities ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Magnesium Sulfate/*adverse effects ; Nervous System Diseases/*embryology/mortality ; Pre-Eclampsia/*drug therapy ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Outcome ; Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/*chemically induced/mortality ; Sensation Disorders/*embryology/mortality ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To assess the long-term effects of in utero exposure to magnesium sulphate for children whose mothers had pre-eclampsia.<br><br>DESIGN: Assessment at 18 months of age for children whose mothers were recruited to the Magpie Trial (recruitment 1998-2001 ISRCTN 86938761), which compared magnesium sulphate with placebo.<br><br>SETTING: Follow-up of children born at 125 centres in 19 countries across five continents.<br><br>POPULATION: A total of 6922 children were born to women randomised before delivery at follow-up centres. Of these, 2271 were not included for logistic reasons and 168 were excluded (101 at a centre where <20% were contacted, 40 whose death or disability was due to a problem at conception or embryogenesis and 27 whose parent/s opted out). Therefore, 4483 children were included in follow-up, of whom 3283 (73%) were contacted.<br><br>METHODS: Assessment by questionnaire, with interview and neurodevelopmental testing of selected children.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Death or neurosensory disability at age of 18 months.<br><br>RESULTS: Of those allocated magnesium sulphate, 245/1635 (15.0%) were dead or had neurosensory disability at 18 months compared with 233/1648 (14.1%) allocated placebo (relative risk [RR] 1.06, 95% CI 0.90-1.25), and of survivors, 19/1409 (1.3%) had neurosensory disability at 18 months compared with 27/1442 (1.9%) (RR 0.72, 95% CI 0.40-1.29). There were no substantial differences in causes of death or in the risk of individual impairments or disabilities.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The lower risk of eclampsia following prophylaxis with magnesium sulphate was not associated with a clear difference in the risk of death or disability for children at 18 months.}, }
@article {pmid17166220, year = {2007}, author = {, }, title = {The Magpie Trial: a randomised trial comparing magnesium sulphate with placebo for pre-eclampsia. Outcome for women at 2 years.}, journal = {BJOG : an international journal of obstetrics and gynaecology}, volume = {114}, number = {3}, pages = {300-309}, pmid = {17166220}, issn = {1470-0328}, support = {G116/98/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Anticonvulsants/*therapeutic use ; Child ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Magnesium Sulfate/*therapeutic use ; Maternal Health Services/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Maternal Mortality ; Patient Acceptance of Health Care/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Pre-Eclampsia/*drug therapy/mortality ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Outcome ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess long-term effects for women following the use of magnesium sulphate for pre-eclampsia.<br><br>DESIGN: Assessment at 2-3 years after delivery for women recruited to the Magpie Trial (recruitment in 1998-2001, ISRCTN 86938761), which compared magnesium sulphate with placebo for pre-eclampsia.<br><br>SETTING: Follow up after discharge from hospital at 125 centres in 19 countries across five continents.<br><br>POPULATION: A total of 7927 women were randomised at the follow-up centres. Of these women, 2544 were not included for logistic reasons and 601 excluded (109 at a centre where <20% of women were contacted, 466 discharged without a surviving child and 26 opted out). Therefore, 4782 women were selected for follow-up, of whom 3375 (71%) were traced.<br><br>METHODS: Questionnaire assessment was administered largely by post or in a dedicated clinic. Interview assessment of selected women was performed. Main outcome measures Death or serious morbidity potentially related to pre-eclampsia at follow up, other morbidity and use of health service resources.<br><br>RESULTS: Median time from delivery to follow up was 26 months (interquartile range 19-36). Fifty-eight of 1650 (3.5%) women allocated magnesium sulphate died or had serious morbidity potentially related to pre-eclampsia compared with 72 of 1725 (4.2%) women allocated placebo (relative risk 0.84, 95% CI 0.60-1.18).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The reduction in the risk of eclampsia following prophylaxis with magnesium sulphate was not associated with an excess of death or disability for the women after 2 years.}, }
@article {pmid17160616, year = {2007}, author = {Klarner, B and Klünemann, HH and Lürding, R and Aslanidis, C and Rupprecht, R}, title = {Neuropsychological profile of adult patients with Niemann-Pick C1 (NPC1) mutations.}, journal = {Journal of inherited metabolic disease}, volume = {30}, number = {1}, pages = {60-67}, pmid = {17160616}, issn = {1573-2665}, mesh = {Adult ; Carrier Proteins/*genetics ; Cohort Studies ; Disease Progression ; Female ; Humans ; Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins ; Male ; Membrane Glycoproteins/*genetics ; Memory ; Motor Skills ; *Mutation ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Niemann-Pick C1 Protein ; Niemann-Pick Diseases/*diagnosis/*genetics/*psychology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Niemann-Pick type C disease is a fatal neurovisceral disorder linked to dysregulation in cholesterol processing. A medication for this disease is currently being tested in clinical trials. However, there is a lack of information on neuropsychological testing parameters for this disease. One aim of this pilot study was to evaluate a test battery that could be used to assess cognitive deficits in different stages of the disease. A second aim was to determine whether specific functional deficits are associated with certain disease stages. Eight men and two women (19-40 years of age) harbouring mutations in the gene coding for the cholesterol trafficking protein NPC1 were put through the same test battery independently of their disease stage. The external staging criterion was based on a five-step clinical scale. Trail Making tests A &amp; B and verbal fluency were sensitive indicators at early stages of NPC. Corsi Block-Tapping, Mini Mental Status, Find Similarities and Clock Drawing showed abnormal results in patients with advanced disease. The Grooved Pegboard, Trail Making and Mosaic tests were unsuitable in advanced disease due to impaired fine motor skills. We observed that visuospatial working memory was less affected by the neurodegenerative process than verbal working memory. The series of tests used here could be supplemented by the severe impairment battery and Raven matrices tests for patients with advanced disease.}, }
@article {pmid17155178, year = {2006}, author = {Bott, SC and Lebedev, SV and Ampleford, DJ and Bland, SN and Chittenden, JP and Ciardi, A and Haines, MG and Jennings, C and Sherlock, M and Hall, G and Rapley, J and Beg, FN and Palmer, J}, title = {Dynamics of cylindrically converging precursor plasma flow in wire-array Z -pinch experiments.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {74}, number = {4 Pt 2}, pages = {046403}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.74.046403}, pmid = {17155178}, issn = {1539-3755}, abstract = {This paper summarizes the present understanding of the processes leading to precursor column formation in cylindrical wire arrays on the 1 MA MAGPIE generator at Imperial College London. Direct experimental measurements of the diameter variation during the collapse and formation phase of the precursor column are presented, along with soft x-ray emission, and quantitative radiography. In addition, data from twisted cylindrical arrays are presented which give additional information on the behavior of coronal plasma generated in wire array z pinches. Three stages in precursor column formation are identifiable from the data: broad initial density profile, rapid contraction to small diameter, and slow expansion after formation. The correlation of emission to column diameter variation indicates the contraction phase is a nonlinear collapse resulting from the increasing on-axis density and radiative cooling rate. The variation in the minimum diameter is measured for several array materials, and data show good agreement with a pressure balance model. Comparison of column expansion rates to analytical models allows an estimate of column temperature variation, and estimates of the current in the column are also made. Formation data are in good agreement with both fluid and kinetic modeling, but highlight the need to include collisionless flow in the early time behavior.}, }
@article {pmid17152932, year = {2006}, author = {Boughton, RK and Atwell, JW and Schoech, SJ}, title = {An introduced generalist parasite, the sticktight flea (Echidnophaga gallinacea), and its pathology in the threatened Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens).}, journal = {The Journal of parasitology}, volume = {92}, number = {5}, pages = {941-948}, doi = {10.1645/GE-769R.1}, pmid = {17152932}, issn = {0022-3395}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology/physiopathology ; Blood Proteins/analysis ; Body Weight ; Corticosterone/blood ; Ectoparasitic Infestations/epidemiology/physiopathology/*veterinary ; Female ; Florida/epidemiology ; Hematocrit/veterinary ; Immunoglobulin G/blood ; Leukocyte Count/veterinary ; Male ; Microfilariae/isolation &amp; purification ; Passeriformes/*parasitology ; Siphonaptera/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {The sticktight flea, (Echidnophaga gallinacea), a major pest of the domestic chicken (Gallus gallus) that can cause severe pathology or death if untreated, is rarely recorded in free-living avian species. Sticktight fleas, however, were observed on the federally threatened Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) in February 2004, in south central Florida. Of the 81 Florida scrub-jays (FSJs) sampled before the 2004 breeding season, 12 were infested, with from 1 to as many as 57 fleas. Subsequent survivorship and variation in health indices led us to conclude that the sticktight flea caused the death of several jays. Within 4 mo, 46% of sticktight flea-infested (INF) jays died, whereas in the nonflea-infested (NINF) jays, only 5.9% died. Adult INF birds lost body mass in the time since a previous capture compared with NINF jays, and mass gain was slowed in 1-yr-old INF jays. Hematocrit of INF jays was dramatically impacted, as low as 17%, and was negatively correlated with the extent of infestation. Leukocyte counts were highest in INF jays; however, plasma immunoglobulin levels were lowest. Physiological stress levels, measured using plasma corticosterone, increased more rapidly in INF jays than NINF jays and were positively correlated with heterophil/lymphocyte ratios. The impact of the sticktight flea on the federally threatened FSJ negates previous findings that sticktight fleas are benign in wild avian hosts.}, }
@article {pmid17148200, year = {2005}, author = {Veiga, JP and Polo, V}, title = {Feathers at nests are potential female signals in the spotless starling.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {1}, number = {3}, pages = {334-337}, pmid = {17148200}, issn = {1744-9561}, mesh = {Animals ; Columbidae/*physiology ; Feathers/*radiation effects ; Female ; Microspectrophotometry ; Nesting Behavior/*physiology ; Photoreceptor Cells/physiology/*radiation effects ; Species Specificity ; Starlings/*physiology ; *Ultraviolet Rays ; }, abstract = {Although the presence of feathers in the nest is widespread among birds, it has not been previously suggested that feathers can be used as sexual signals. Females of the spotless starling (Sturnus unicolor) regularly carry feathers to their nest, mostly during laying and incubation. We show that the arrangement of these feathers was non-random with respect to the side (obverse or reverse) placed upwards (which can be viewed from the nest entrance). Feathers of the wood pigeon (Columba palumbus) and the spotless starling, which exhibit higher ultraviolet and visible reflectance on their reverse side, were predominantly placed with this side upwards. On the contrary, feathers of the jay (Garrulus glandarius) were predominantly found exhibiting the obverse side, which possesses higher reflectance in this species. Feathers of the azure-winged magpie (Cyanopica cyana), with similar reflectance values on either side, were placed indiscriminately in obverse and reverse positions. The results suggest that feathers are arranged to maximize their conspicuousness within the nest and hence that they might be potentially used as intraspecific signals.}, }
@article {pmid17134416, year = {2005}, author = {Kadhim, KA and Al-Waiz, M}, title = {Treatment of periorbital wrinkles by repeated medium-depth chemical peels in dark-skinned individuals.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology}, volume = {4}, number = {1}, pages = {18-22}, doi = {10.1111/j.1473-2165.2005.00153.x}, pmid = {17134416}, issn = {1473-2165}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The periorbital region serves as a barometer of chronological and environmental age and, as such, persons often seek its cosmetic rejuvenation.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to determine the efficacy and safety of repeated, medium-depth chemical peels in the treatment of periorbital wrinkles in dark-skinned individuals.<br><br>SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A total of 12 subjects (10 women and 2 men) with fine and/or medium-sized wrinkles were included in the study, the ages ranged from 30 to 55 years with a mean of 41.25. Focal, medium-depth peels of periorbital area including crow's foot wrinkles were performed using a combination of Jessner's solution followed by the application of 35% trichloroacetic acid (TCA). The study involved a four-session regimen. To be included in this study, the subject completed at least two peeling sessions, 1 month apart, and returned for follow-up according to the research schedule.<br><br>RESULTS: Improvement occurred in 11 of 12 subjects. Marked improvement occurred in four subjects (33%), moderate improvement in three (25%), mild improvement in another three (25%), minimal improvement in one subject (8%), and no response in one subject (8%). There were seven patients with fine and five with medium periorbital wrinkles. For statistical analysis, the no and minimum response groups were categorized as nonresponders. The improvement that ranged between marked to mild occurred in 100% of subjects with fine wrinkles and 60% of subjects with medium wrinkles. Mild side effects appeared in four subjects (33%).<br><br>CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that fine and/or medium periorbital wrinkling responds favorably to repeated, medium-depth chemical peels even in dark-skinned individuals with few mild side effects.}, }
@article {pmid17133973, year = {2006}, author = {Burt, RA}, title = {The uses of psychoanalysis in law: the force of Jay Katz's example.}, journal = {Yale journal of health policy, law, and ethics}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {401-13; discussion 415-29, 501-2}, pmid = {17133973}, issn = {1535-3532}, mesh = {Bioethical Issues/history ; Connecticut ; Divorce/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/psychology ; Female ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Lawyers/education/*history ; Male ; Psychoanalysis/*history/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Universities ; }, }
@article {pmid17133972, year = {2006}, author = {Koh, HH}, title = {The healing wisdom of Jay Katz.}, journal = {Yale journal of health policy, law, and ethics}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {397-399}, pmid = {17133972}, issn = {1535-3532}, mesh = {Bioethical Issues/history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Interpersonal Relations ; Lawyers/education/history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid17133971, year = {2006}, author = {Tolley, DC}, title = {A world less silent: celebrating Jay Katz's contributions to law, medicine, and ethics.}, journal = {Yale journal of health policy, law, and ethics}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {393-396}, pmid = {17133971}, issn = {1535-3532}, mesh = {*Bioethical Issues ; History, 21st Century ; *Teaching ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid17123839, year = {2007}, author = {Fuchs, J and Cruaud, C and Couloux, A and Pasquet, E}, title = {Complex biogeographic history of the cuckoo-shrikes and allies (Passeriformes: Campephagidae) revealed by mitochondrial and nuclear sequence data.}, journal = {Molecular phylogenetics and evolution}, volume = {44}, number = {1}, pages = {138-153}, doi = {10.1016/j.ympev.2006.10.014}, pmid = {17123839}, issn = {1055-7903}, mesh = {Animals ; Australasia ; Cell Nucleus/genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/*genetics ; Evolution, Molecular ; Geography ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Passeriformes/classification/*genetics ; *Phylogeny ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {The Campephagidae (minivets, cuckoo-shrikes and trillers, seven genera and 81 species) represents an Old World corvid clade of tropical birds with a mixed diet that forage in different manners, i.e., flycatching, foliage-gleaning or shriking. This family has never been the focus of any phylogenetic survey, so their phylogenetic relationships and biogeographic history remain largely unknown. To address these questions, we sequenced four loci (ND2, myoglobin intron-2, GAPDH intron-11 and c-mos) for 27 species of Campephagidae. Our analyses suggest that Coracina consists of five unrelated lineages and that Lalage is paraphyletic. Our dating analyses, using a Bayesian relaxed-clock method, indicate that the split between the Indo-Malayan genus Pericrocotus and the remaining Campephagidae occurred synchronously with other splits involving Indo-Malayan corvid lineages, suggesting that several lineages of Indo-Malayan birds were isolated at the same time from their closest relatives. The African stock of cuckoo-shrikes is likely the result of three independent trans-oceanic dispersals from Australasia.}, }
@article {pmid17121304, year = {2006}, author = {Soogarun, S and Wiwanitkit, V and Palasuwan, A and Pradniwat, P and Suwansaksri, J and Lertlum, T and Maungkote, T}, title = {Detection of Cryptococcus neoformans in bird excreta.}, journal = {The Southeast Asian journal of tropical medicine and public health}, volume = {37}, number = {4}, pages = {768-770}, pmid = {17121304}, issn = {0125-1562}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*microbiology ; Cities ; Cryptococcus neoformans/enzymology/*isolation &amp; purification ; *Disease Reservoirs ; Feces/*microbiology ; Monophenol Monooxygenase/analysis ; Species Specificity ; Thailand ; Urease/analysis ; }, abstract = {We evaluated 14 samples of bird excreta from pigeons, parrots, open billed storks and crows obtained from thirteen places in Bangkok and nearby areas between April and July 2004. These bird excreta were examined for Cryptococcus neoformans by direct plating method to inspect their ability to grow at 37 degrees C. Capsule production was examined by Indian ink preparation. They were also tested for urease and phenoloxidase enzymes. Cryptococcus neoformans var neoformans was recovered from pigeon excreta in 9.09%. This implies those having impaired immunity may get this fungus from the environment.}, }
@article {pmid17116793, year = {2006}, author = {Binder, WJ}, title = {Long-term effects of botulinum toxin type A (Botox) on facial lines: a comparison in identical twins.}, journal = {Archives of facial plastic surgery}, volume = {8}, number = {6}, pages = {426-431}, doi = {10.1001/archfaci.8.6.426}, pmid = {17116793}, issn = {1521-2491}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Female ; Humans ; Neuromuscular Agents/*therapeutic use ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Twins, Monozygotic ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the presence of imprinted facial lines in identical twin sisters, one of whom had received botulinum toxin type A (Botox) treatment in the forehead and glabellar region regularly for 13 years and one of whom had not. Crow's feet were also compared.<br><br>METHODS: One twin received Botox in the forehead and glabellar region (approximately 2 to 3 times each year over the past 13 years) and in the crow's feet (twice in past 2 years). Her twin received Botox only twice (in the forehead and glabellar region, 3 and 7 years ago).<br><br>RESULTS: Imprinted forehead and glabellar lines were not evident in the regularly treated twin but were evident in the minimally treated twin. Crow's feet were less noticeable when the regularly treated twin smiled (even at 7 months after treatment) than when the minimally treated twin smiled. Untreated facial areas (eg, nasolabial folds) showed comparable aging in both twins. Neither twin experienced adverse effects.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Long-term treatment with Botox can prevent the development of imprinted facial lines that are visible at rest. Botox treatment can also reduce crow's feet. Treatment is well tolerated, with no adverse events reported during 13 years of regular treatment in this study.}, }
@article {pmid17098976, year = {2006}, author = {Kinney, RM and Huang, CY and Whiteman, MC and Bowen, RA and Langevin, SA and Miller, BR and Brault, AC}, title = {Avian virulence and thermostable replication of the North American strain of West Nile virus.}, journal = {The Journal of general virology}, volume = {87}, number = {Pt 12}, pages = {3611-3622}, doi = {10.1099/vir.0.82299-0}, pmid = {17098976}, issn = {0022-1317}, support = {AI061822/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; CI000235/CI/NCPDCID CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Body Temperature ; Cell Line ; Chlorocebus aethiops ; Crows/*virology ; Ducks ; RNA, Viral/biosynthesis ; Survival Analysis ; Temperature ; Vero Cells ; Viral Plaque Assay ; Virulence ; *Virus Replication ; West Nile Fever/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*pathogenicity/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The NY99 genotype of West Nile virus (WNV) introduced into North America has demonstrated high virulence for American crows (AMCRs), whilst a closely related WNV strain (KEN-3829) from Kenya exhibits substantially reduced virulence in AMCRs [Brault, A. C., Langevin, S. A., Bowen, R. A., Panella, N. A., Biggerstaff, B. J., Miller, B. R. &amp; Nicholas, K. (2004). Emerg Infect Dis 10, 2161-2168]. Viruses rescued from infectious cDNA clones of both the NY99 and KEN-3829 strains demonstrated virulence comparable to that of their parental strains in AMCRs. To begin to define parameters that might explain the different virulence phenotypes between these two viruses, temperature-sensitivity assays were performed for both viruses at the high temperatures experienced in viraemic AMCRs. Growth curves of the two WNV strains were performed in African green monkey kidney (Vero; 37-42 degrees C) and duck embryonic fibroblast (DEF; 37-45 degrees C) cells cultured at temperatures that were tolerated by the cell line. Unlike the NY99 virus, marked decreases in KEN-3829 viral titres were detected between 36 and 120 h post-infection (p.i.) at temperatures above 43 degrees C. Replication of KEN-3829 viral RNA was reduced 6500-fold at 72 h p.i. in DEF cells incubated at 44 degrees C relative to levels of intracellular virus-specific RNA measured at 37 degrees C. In contrast, replication of virus derived from the NY99 infectious cDNA at 44 degrees C demonstrated only a 17-fold reduction in RNA level. These results indicated that the ability of WNV NY99 to replicate at the high temperatures measured in infected AMCRs could be an important factor leading to the increased avian virulence and emergence of this strain of WNV.}, }
@article {pmid17094656, year = {2006}, author = {Ternovoĭ, VA and Protopopova, EV and Surmach, SG and Gazetdinov, MV and Zolotykh, SI and Shestopalov, AM and Pavlenko, EV and Leonova, GN and Loktev, VB}, title = {[The genotyping of the West Nile virus in birds in the far eastern region of Russia in 2002-2004].}, journal = {Molekuliarnaia genetika, mikrobiologiia i virusologiia}, volume = {}, number = {4}, pages = {30-35}, pmid = {17094656}, issn = {0208-0613}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*virology ; Genes, Viral ; Genotype ; Immunoenzyme Techniques ; Phylogeny ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Russia ; West Nile virus/classification/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Samples from 20 species of trapped and dead birds were collected in the Far Eastern Region in 2002-2004 and were analyzed by the anti-WNV MAb-modified immunoenzyme assay for antigen detection and RT-PCR for viral RNA detection. Five positive samples from cinereous vultures (Aegypius monachus) and two positive samples from cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) were found in both tests. The sequencing of the 322 bp fragments of protein E gene showed 99-99.67% homology with the strain WNV/LEIV-VlgOO-27924 of the WNV isolated in Volgograd, Russia, 2000. Additionally, five positive samples from birds (Pica pica, Corvus macrorhynchos, Larus crossirostris, Parus minor, Emberiza spodocephala) collected in autumn 2004 were found during screening with anti-WNV MAb-modified ELISA. These results confirm that the WNV is circulating in the Far Eastern Region of Russia and outbreaks of WN fever in humans may be possible. This demonstrates that the genotype 1a of the West Nile virus could spread in the southern regions of the Far East by migrating birds and introduction of the WNV into other southern regions of the Asian part of Russia are probably.}, }
@article {pmid17086003, year = {2006}, author = {de Oliveira Monteiro, E}, title = {Botulinum toxin and pregnancy.}, journal = {Skinmed}, volume = {5}, number = {6}, pages = {308}, doi = {10.1111/j.1540-9740.2006.05584.x}, pmid = {17086003}, issn = {1540-9740}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Female ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Trimester, First ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {The overall use of botulinum toxin type A in cosmetic procedures continues to rise, and the incidental exposures of pregnant women to the drug can occur. The author describes 2 patients who received botulinum toxin type A injections during pregnancy. The first patient was a 34-year-old woman who received 54 units of botulinum toxin type A to treat periorbital lines (crow's feet) unaware that she was 6 weeks pregnant. She had a healthy term baby delivered by cesarean section; Apgar scores were 9/10. The second patient was a 37-year-old woman who received 65 units of botulinum toxin type A to treat facial dynamic lines (forehead, glabelar, and periorbital), unaware that she was 5 weeks pregnant. She had a healthy term baby delivered by cesarean section; Apgar scores were 9/10. The 2 patients were injected only once in the first trimester. Both cases did not have any complications or detectable adverse effects on the fetuses.}, }
@article {pmid17077605, year = {2006}, author = {Mineta, M and Hatori, M and Sano, H and Hosaka, M and Kokubun, S and Hiroki, E and Hatakeyama, A and Ogasawara, T}, title = {Recurrent Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with increased serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor: a case report and review of the literature.}, journal = {The Tohoku journal of experimental medicine}, volume = {210}, number = {3}, pages = {269-277}, doi = {10.1620/tjem.210.269}, pmid = {17077605}, issn = {0040-8727}, mesh = {Bone and Bones/pathology ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods ; Male ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*blood/diagnosis/*pathology ; Polyneuropathies/*blood/diagnosis/*pathology ; Radionuclide Imaging/methods ; Recurrence ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/*blood ; }, abstract = {Crow-Fukase syndrome (CFS) is a rare multi-system disorder, characterized by polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M-proteins, skin changes and anasarca, with or without myeloma. The pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of CFS are controversial. CFS may be associated with the overproduction of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). However, there have been no reports of monitoring the serum VEGF level after recurrence, to the best of our knowledge. We report a 54-year-old man with CFS presenting with a 3-year history of ascites, anasarca, weakness of the lower extremities, and plasmacytoma in the scapula. At the initial examination, the VEGF level was 1,590 pg/ml (the VEGF level of a healthy control, 78.4 +/- 75.2 pg/ml). After initial treatment with chemotherapy and irradiation of the affected shoulder, the VEGF level decreased to 154 pg/ml and the symptoms disappeared. Twenty one months later, gate disturbance and anasarca recurred, and the VEGF level was over 2,000 pg/dl. After total scaplectomy, the VEGF level decreased to 730 pg/dl and the symptoms disappeared. The serum level of VEGF well correlated to the clinical course of the patient. In conclusion, measurement of the VEGF level is useful for diagnosing CFS and for monitoring its clinical course.}, }
@article {pmid17074303, year = {2007}, author = {Abela, JR and Skitch, SA}, title = {Dysfunctional attitudes, self-esteem, and hassles: cognitive vulnerability to depression in children of affectively ill parents.}, journal = {Behaviour research and therapy}, volume = {45}, number = {6}, pages = {1127-1140}, doi = {10.1016/j.brat.2006.09.011}, pmid = {17074303}, issn = {0005-7967}, mesh = {Adolescent ; *Attitude ; Child ; Child of Impaired Parents/*psychology ; Depressive Disorder/*etiology/psychology ; Depressive Disorder, Major ; Disease Susceptibility ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Psychometrics ; Risk Factors ; *Self Concept ; Stress, Psychological/*psychology ; }, abstract = {The current study tested the diathesis-stress component of Beck's [(1967). Depression: Clinical, experimental, and theoretical aspects. New York: Harper &amp; Row, (1983). Cognitive therapy of depression: New perspectives. In P.J. Clayton, J.E. Barnett (Eds.), Treatment of depression: Old controversies and new approaches (pp. 265-290). New York: Raven Press] cognitive theory of depression in a sample of children between the ages of 6 and 14. We also examined whether high self-esteem buffers cognitively vulnerable youth against experiencing increases in depressive symptoms following increases in hassles. To provide a effective test of hypotheses, an at-risk sample (children of parents with a history of major depressive episodes) and a multi-wave longitudinal design were used. At Time 1, children (n=140) completed measures assessing dysfunctional attitudes, self-esteem, and depressive symptoms. Every 6 weeks for the next year, children completed measures assessing depressive symptoms and hassles. Hierarchical linear modeling analyses indicated that children possessing high levels of dysfunctional attitudes and low levels of self-esteem reported greater elevations in depressive symptoms following elevations in hassles than other children.}, }
@article {pmid17072056, year = {2006}, author = {Pecyna, MB}, title = {The level of intelligence and heart rate variability in men after myocardial infarction.}, journal = {Journal of physiology and pharmacology : an official journal of the Polish Physiological Society}, volume = {57 Suppl 4}, number = {}, pages = {283-287}, pmid = {17072056}, issn = {1899-1505}, mesh = {Adult ; Heart Rate/*physiology ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Myocardial Infarction/*physiopathology ; Prognosis ; }, abstract = {Heart rate variability (HRV) reflects periodic changes taking place in heart rhythm, which are controlled by the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and external factors. The aim of the present study was to assess the relationship between HRV and the level of intelligence using the Raven Advanced Matrices Test in 95 men (mean age 41.6 +/-3.7 SD yr) who experienced myocardial infarction during two years preceding the psychophysiological examination. HRV was analyzed from the EEG signal recordings in the time and spectral domains. It was found that post-myocardial infarct men of the higher than average intelligence had significantly increased HRV; the finding was reflected in the analysis of both time and frequency domains. Although both sympathetic and parasympathetic components showed an increase in the frequency domain, the former did disproportionately more, achieving substantial predominance. The results indicate that active mental processes and attitude, linked to a higher intelligence level, might be a beneficial prognostic marker, as is higher HRV, for the overall post-infarction cardiac mortality and for return of such subjects back to normal life. The corollary is that the assessment of IQ in post-infarction patients seems a simple screening method that may help presage the health and social course the patient takes.}, }
@article {pmid17038695, year = {2006}, author = {Kipp, AM and Lehman, JA and Bowen, RA and Fox, PE and Stephens, MR and Klenk, K and Komar, N and Bunning, ML}, title = {West Nile virus quantification in feces of experimentally infected American and fish crows.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {75}, number = {4}, pages = {688-690}, pmid = {17038695}, issn = {0002-9637}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/transmission/*virology ; *Crows ; Feces/*virology ; Viremia/veterinary/virology ; *Virus Shedding ; West Nile Fever/transmission/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/growth &amp; development/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {To better understand the potential environmental health risk presented by West Nile virus (WNV)-contaminated feces, we quantified the amount of WNV present in the feces of experimentally infected American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and fish crows (Corvus ossifragus). Peak fecal titers ranged from 10(3.5) to 10(8.8) plaque-forming units (PFU)/g for 10 American crows and from 10(2.3) to 10(6.4) PFU/g for 10 fish crows. The presence of infectious WNV in bird feces indicates a potential for direct transmission of WNV. Thus, handlers of sick or dead birds should take appropriate precautions to avoid exposure to fecal material.}, }
@article {pmid17034375, year = {2006}, author = {Hund, T and Ascher, B and Rzany, B and , }, title = {Reproducibility of two four-point clinical severity scores for lateral canthal lines (crow's feet).}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {32}, number = {10}, pages = {1256-1260}, doi = {10.1111/j.1524-4725.2006.32286.x}, pmid = {17034375}, issn = {1076-0512}, mesh = {*Cosmetic Techniques ; Face/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Observer Variation ; Photography ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Several clinical scoring systems have been used to evaluate the efficacy of botulinum toxin A in the treatment of hyperkinetic wrinkles. So far very few have been investigated for their reproducibility.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the reproducibility of two clinical four-point scales for lateral canthal lines (crow's feet), at rest and at maximum smile.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: Based on standardized photographs, a consensus atlas depicting the different severity grades [from 0 (none) to 3 (severe)] was developed. After training based on the atlas, 49 photographs at rest and 48 at maximum smile were graded by the same group of investigators on 2 consecutive days (n=9 on Day 1; n=8 on Day 2). The scores were compared for reproducibility using kappa statistics.<br><br>RESULTS: Overall, reproducibility was good for both scales. Interobserver reproducibility showed an agreement of 0.6 at rest and 0.58 at maximum smile (unweighted kappa). Intraobserver reproducibility showed an agreement between 0.47 and 0.86 at rest and between 0.62 and 0.81 at maximum smile (unweighted kappa). Using weighted kappa analysis, the agreement ranged between 0.63 and 0.91 at rest and between 0.71 and 0.85 at maximum smile.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The clinical scales using scores of 0 to 3 for crow's feet, both at rest and at maximum smile, show a good inter- and intraobserver reproducibility. The use of these scores in clinical trials can be recommended.}, }
@article {pmid17024509, year = {2006}, author = {Weir, AA and Kacelnik, A}, title = {A New Caledonian crow (Corvus moneduloides) creatively re-designs tools by bending or unbending aluminium strips.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {9}, number = {4}, pages = {317-334}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-006-0052-5}, pmid = {17024509}, issn = {1435-9448}, support = {BB/C517392/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/C517392/1/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Comprehension ; *Crows ; Female ; Learning ; *Motor Skills ; *Problem Solving ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {Previous observations of a New Caledonian crow (Corvus moneduloides) spontaneously bending wire and using it as a hook [Weir et al. (2002) Science 297:981] have prompted questions about the extent to which these animals 'understand' the physical causality involved in how hooks work and how to make them. To approach this issue we examine how the same subject ("Betty") performed in three experiments with novel material, which needed to be either bent or unbent in order to function to retrieve food. These tasks exclude the possibility of success by repetition of patterns of movement similar to those employed before. Betty quickly developed novel techniques to bend the material, and appropriately modified it on four of five trials when unbending was required. She did not mechanically apply a previously learned set of movements to the new situations, and instead sought new solutions to each problem. However, the details of her behaviour preclude concluding definitely that she understood and planned her actions: in some cases she probed with the unmodified tools before modifying them, or attempted to use the unmodified (unsuitable) end of the tool after modification. Gauging New Caledonian crows' level of understanding is not yet possible, but the observed behaviour is consistent with a partial understanding of physical tasks at a level that exceeds that previously attained by any other non-human subject, including apes.}, }
@article {pmid17022618, year = {2006}, author = {Hirata, M}, title = {[POEMS syndrome (Crow-Fukase syndrome)].}, journal = {Nihon rinsho. Japanese journal of clinical medicine}, volume = {Suppl 3}, number = {}, pages = {601-604}, pmid = {17022618}, issn = {0047-1852}, mesh = {Humans ; Interleukin-6/physiology ; *POEMS Syndrome/diagnosis/epidemiology/etiology/therapy ; Prognosis ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/physiology ; }, }
@article {pmid17017250, year = {2006}, author = {Molaei, G and Andreadis, TG}, title = {Identification of avian- and mammalian-derived bloodmeals in Aedes vexans and Culiseta melanura (Diptera: Culicidae) and its implication for West Nile virus transmission in Connecticut, U.S.A.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {43}, number = {5}, pages = {1088-1093}, doi = {10.1603/0022-2585(2006)43[1088:IOAAMB]2.0.CO;2}, pmid = {17017250}, issn = {0022-2585}, mesh = {Aedes/*physiology ; Animals ; Birds/blood/classification/genetics ; *Blood ; Connecticut ; Culicidae/*physiology ; DNA/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification ; DNA Primers/chemistry ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Mammals/blood/classification/genetics ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/methods ; West Nile Fever/*transmission ; West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {To evaluate the host-feeding patterns of Aedes vexans (Meigen) and Culiseta melanura (Coquillett) as secondary vectors of West Nile virus (family Flaviviridae, genus Flavivirus, WNV) in Northeastern United States, we identified the source of vertebrate bloodmeals by sequencing portions of the cytochrome b gene of mitochondrial DNA. Analysis of polymerase chain reaction products from a total of 119 Ae. vexans revealed that 92.4% of individuals acquired blood solely from mammalian and 2.5% from avian hosts. Mixed bloodmeals from both avian and mammalian hosts were detected in 5% of individuals of this species. Ae. vexans obtained vertebrate bloodmeals most frequently from white-tailed deer (80%) followed by domestic horse, American robin, eastern cottontail, and domestic cat. In contrast, Cs. melanura fed predominantly on avian species (89.6%) but exhibited some inclination for mammalian blood (4.2%). Individual mosquitoes containing mixed bloodmeals were also identified in 6% of Cs. melanura. American robin was the most common source of vertebrate blood for Cs. melanura (23%), followed by wood thrush and gray catbird. American crow represented only 2% of the bloodmeals identified in Cs. melanura, as was similarly found with other recognized Culex vectors of WNV in the northeast. These findings support the view that Ae. vexans is likely to be a relatively important "bridge vector" to large mammals, including deer and horse, whereas Cs. melanura likely plays a secondary role in enzootic transmission of WNV among free-ranging birds in more rural environs.}, }
@article {pmid17015367, year = {2006}, author = {Waite, TA and Strickland, D}, title = {Climate change and the demographic demise of a hoarding bird living on the edge.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {273}, number = {1603}, pages = {2809-2813}, pmid = {17015367}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Breeding ; *Climate ; Extinction, Biological ; *Feeding Behavior ; *Nesting Behavior ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Population Density ; Population Dynamics ; Reproduction ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {Population declines along the lower-latitude edge of a species' range may be diagnostic of climate change. We report evidence that climate change has contributed to deteriorating reproductive success in a rapidly declining population of the grey jay (Perisoreus canadensis) at the southern edge of its range. This non-migratory bird of boreal and subalpine forest lives on permanent territories, where it hoards enormous amounts of food for winter and then breeds very early, under still-wintry conditions. We hypothesized that warmer autumns have increased the perishability of hoards and compromised subsequent breeding attempts. Our analysis confirmed that warm autumns, especially when followed by cold late winters, have led to delayed breeding and reduced reproductive success. Our findings uniquely show that weather months before the breeding season impact the timing and success of breeding. Warm autumns apparently represent hostile conditions for this species, because it relies on cold storage. Our study population may be especially vulnerable, because it is situated at the southern edge of the range, where the potential for hoard rot is most pronounced. This population's demise may signal a climate-driven range contraction through local extinctions along the trailing edge.}, }
@article {pmid17011466, year = {2006}, author = {Jang, SY and Liu, HH and Wang, X and Vassiliev, ON and Siebers, JV and Dong, L and Mohan, R}, title = {Dosimetric verification for intensity-modulated radiotherapy of thoracic cancers using experimental and Monte Carlo approaches.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {66}, number = {3}, pages = {939-948}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijrobp.2006.06.048}, pmid = {17011466}, issn = {0360-3016}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung/*radiotherapy ; Esophageal Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Lung Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Mesothelioma/*radiotherapy ; *Monte Carlo Method ; Phantoms, Imaging ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/methods ; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated/*methods/standards ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To investigate the dosimetric accuracy of commercial treatment planning systems used in intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for thoracic cancer.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: Clinical IMRT plans for lung and esophageal cancers and mesothelioma were used to investigate the accuracy of dose calculations from two commercial treatment planning systems (Pinnacle and Corvus systems). Dose distributions were measured with ion chambers and thermoluminescent dosimeters for individual IMRT fields and composite treatment plans in water phantoms and anthropomorphic phantoms. A Monte Carlo-based system was established to compute three-dimensional dose distributions to compare with the treatment planning system calculations.<br><br>RESULTS: Dose calculations from the Pinnacle system were acceptable within 5% of the local dose or a 5-mm distance-to-agreement for 80% of the points measured with ion chambers, 74% of the points measured with thermoluminescent dosimeters, and 96% of the points compared with the Monte Carlo calculations. For the Corvus system, 89% of the points agreed with the measured dose and 98% agreed with the Monte Carlo calculations. Underestimation of the dose from the treatment planning system was found in the low-dose regions (<50% of the prescribed dose), possibly caused by inadequate modeling of the multileaf collimators.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The Pinnacle and Corvus dose calculations were acceptable for thoracic IMRT in high-dose regions. Beam modeling is likely the most critical factor for the accuracy of IMRT dose calculations.}, }
@article {pmid17009755, year = {2006}, author = {Fox, GA and Kendall, BE and Fitzpatrick, JW and Woolfenden, GE}, title = {Consequences of heterogeneity in survival probability in a population of Florida scrub-jays.}, journal = {The Journal of animal ecology}, volume = {75}, number = {4}, pages = {921-927}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2656.2006.01110.x}, pmid = {17009755}, issn = {0021-8790}, mesh = {Aging ; Animals ; Longevity/physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Population Dynamics ; Proportional Hazards Models ; Sex Characteristics ; Survival Rate ; }, abstract = {1. Using data on breeding birds from a 35-year study of Florida scrub-jays Aphelocoma coerulescens (Bosc 1795), we show that survival probabilities are structured by age, birth cohort, and maternal family, but not by sex. Using both accelerated failure time (AFT) and Cox proportional hazard models, the data are best described by models incorporating variation among birth cohorts and greater mortality hazard with increasing age. AFT models using Weibull distributions with the shape parameter > 1 were always the best-fitting models. 2. Shared frailty models allowing for family structure greatly reduce model deviance. The best-fitting models included a term for frailty shared by maternal families. 3. To ask how long a data set must be to reach qualitatively the same conclusions, we repeated the analyses for all possible truncated data sets of 2 years in length or greater. Length of the data set affects the parameter estimates, but not the qualitative conclusions. In all but three of 337 truncated data sets the best-fitting models pointed to same conclusions as the full data set. Shared frailty models appear to be quite robust. 4. The data are not adequate for testing hypotheses as to whether variation in frailty is heritable. 5. Substantial structured heterogeneity for survival exists in this population. Such structured heterogeneity has been shown to have substantial effects in reducing demographic stochasticity.}, }
@article {pmid17002754, year = {2006}, author = {Van Houtan, KS}, title = {Conservation as virtue: a scientific and social process for conservation ethics.}, journal = {Conservation biology : the journal of the Society for Conservation Biology}, volume = {20}, number = {5}, pages = {1367-1372}, doi = {10.1111/j.1523-1739.2006.00447.x}, pmid = {17002754}, issn = {0888-8892}, mesh = {*Bioethical Issues ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; *Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {Most scientists take ethical arguments for conservation as given and focus on scientific or economic questions. Although nature conservation is often considered a just cause, it is given little further consideration. A lack of attention to ethical theory raises serious concerns for how conservation scientists conceive and practice ethics. I contrast two common ways scientists approach ethics, as demonstrated in the writings of Stephen Jay Gould and E. O. Wilson. Gould casts severe doubt as to whether any ethics are possible from science, whereas Wilson proposes science as the only path to ethics. I argue these two methods ultimately limit popular support for conservation and offer Alasdair MacIntyre's "virtue ethics" as an alternative. Unlike Gould and Wilson, MacIntyre provides an ethical theory that reconciles scientific inquiry and social traditions. Recent studies of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States affirm MacIntyre's claims and provide important insights for conservation today. These accounts argue that social solidarity and political success against segregation were possible only as rooted in the particular language, logic, and practices of a robust cultural tradition. If correct, conservation science should attend to several questions. On what basis can conservation achieve widespread cultural legitimacy? What are the particular social currencies for a conservation ethic? What role does science play in such a scheme? MacIntyre's careful positioning of scientific and social traditions provides a hopeful ethical direction for conservation.}, }
@article {pmid16997499, year = {2007}, author = {Bougiouklis, PA}, title = {Avian circoviruses of the genus Circovirus: A potential trigger in Pigeon breeder's lung (PBL)/Bird fancier's lung (BFL).}, journal = {Medical hypotheses}, volume = {68}, number = {2}, pages = {320-323}, doi = {10.1016/j.mehy.2006.07.020}, pmid = {16997499}, issn = {0306-9877}, mesh = {Agricultural Workers' Diseases/virology ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Circoviridae Infections/*diagnosis/transmission/veterinary ; Circovirus ; Columbidae ; Humans ; }, abstract = {Pigeon breeder's lung (PBL) or Bird fancier's lung (BFL) is one of the most common extrinsic allergic alveolitis or hypersensitivity pneumonitis. It is caused after prolonged inhalation of avian antigens and provokes a hypersensitivity reaction in the lungs of sensitised people. Although the pathogenic mechanism is unclear, the epidemiology of BFL shows that it occurs worldwide, and has been described in adults keeping birds and also in their children. Laboratory findings associated with the disease classified as a type III immunologic reaction that produces blood precipitin antibodies against birds' serum, feathers, intestinal mucin and/or faeces. In particular, the fine dust from pigeon feathers has strong antigenic properties. There is an interaction between host and antigen that seems to be influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Avian circoviruses (ACV) of the genus Circovirus, has been detected in free-ranging and captive birds worldwide, such as pigeons, canaries, psittacines, Senegal doves, finches, gulls, Australian ravens and geese. T lymphocytes are the main target cells of the ACV and in the above avian species circovirus-like particles were detected in blood, macrophages, feathers, crop secretions, intestinal contents and/or faeces. Most of the ACV was demonstrated that are pantropic and viral antigen in pigeon tissues was most commonly detected in respiratory organs, including the trachea, pharynx and lung. The transmission of the circovirus between the birds usually occurs through inhalation of feathers dust. There is evidence that animal circoviruses may originate when vertebrates become "infected" with DNA from a plant nanovirus. So, it seems that further investigation for the avian circoviruses is needed to determine if they are host specific or not. This study attempts to demonstrate ACV or ACV-like particles as potential triggers in the BFL aetiology, and the possible involvement in BFL's pathogenic mechanism.}, }
@article {pmid16973311, year = {2007}, author = {Walker, SP and Thame, MM and Chang, SM and Bennett, F and Forrester, TE}, title = {Association of growth in utero with cognitive function at age 6-8 years.}, journal = {Early human development}, volume = {83}, number = {6}, pages = {355-360}, doi = {10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2006.07.006}, pmid = {16973311}, issn = {0378-3782}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Anthropometry ; Birth Weight ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Fetal Development/*physiology ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Jamaica ; Prospective Studies ; Regression Analysis ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Size at birth is associated with later cognitive development. The timing of growth faltering in utero may affect developmental consequences.<br><br>AIM: To determine whether growth in utero is related to cognitive outcomes in childhood. A secondary aim was to determine any associations between maternal nutritional status and cognition.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN AND SUBJECTS: Subjects were participants in a prospective cohort study of developmental origins of adult disease. Eligible subjects were aged 6-8 years at their next scheduled visit to the study clinic and their mothers had abdominal ultrasound measurements at 14, 25 and 35 weeks gestation. 186 of 264 eligible children attended the clinic and were tested.<br><br>OUTCOME MEASURES: Raven's Progressive Matrices (reasoning ability), Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (receptive vocabulary) and Digit Span Forwards (auditory working memory).<br><br>RESULTS: In multiple regression analyses controlling for children's age and socioeconomic status, head circumference at 14 weeks gestation was significantly associated with reasoning ability. The difference between the lowest and highest quartiles was equivalent to 0.4 S.D. No other significant associations with fetal growth were found. Maternal weight gain was not associated with cognitive scores; however, change in triceps skinfold between 25 and 35 weeks gestation was positively associated with reasoning ability and remained a significant predictor when included in the regression model.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: There were few associations between growth in utero and cognition. Growth in head circumference in early gestation and maternal nutrition in late gestation may affect later cognitive ability. Further research in this area is needed to confirm these results.}, }
@article {pmid16971144, year = {2007}, author = {Bonaccorso, E and Peterson, AT}, title = {A multilocus phylogeny of New World jay genera.}, journal = {Molecular phylogenetics and evolution}, volume = {42}, number = {2}, pages = {467-476}, doi = {10.1016/j.ympev.2006.06.025}, pmid = {16971144}, issn = {1055-7903}, mesh = {Adenylate Kinase/genetics ; Animals ; Bayes Theorem ; Cell Nucleus/genetics ; Cytochromes b/genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/chemistry/genetics ; Fibrinogen/genetics ; Likelihood Functions ; Molecular Sequence Data ; NADH Dehydrogenase/genetics ; Passeriformes/classification/*genetics ; *Phylogeny ; Point Mutation ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {We studied phylogenetic relationships of the New World Jays (NWJs) based on DNA sequences from three mitochondrial and two nuclear loci. Sampling included at least two individuals from each of the seven NWJ genera and four outgroups of closely related corvids, as well as six of the 16 Cyanocorax species (including two representatives of the previously recognized "Cissilopha"). Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian analyses for individual genes and a combined dataset. The combined phylogenetic analysis supports the basal position of Cyanolyca to all other NWJs, a (Cyanocorax (Calocitta, Psilorhinus)) clade, and a ((Cyanocitta, Aphelocoma) Gymnorhinus) clade that agrees with a novel morphological synapomorphy uniting Cyanocitta and Aphelocoma. Within Cyanocorax, C. yncas (former "Xanthoura") is basal to a split among former "Cyssilopha" species and the rest of the Cyanocorax species. To explore implications for the historical biogeography of the NJWs, we used Dispersal-Vicariance Analysis, which indicated that NWJs originated either in Mesoamerica or North America+Mesoamerica, with South American NWJs dispersing three times independently from Mesoamerica.}, }
@article {pmid16967826, year = {2006}, author = {Counter, SA and Buchanan, LH and Ortega, F}, title = {Neurocognitive screening of mercury-exposed children of Andean gold miners.}, journal = {International journal of occupational and environmental health}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, pages = {209-214}, doi = {10.1179/oeh.2006.12.3.209}, pmid = {16967826}, issn = {1077-3525}, mesh = {Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology ; Ecuador ; *Environmental Exposure ; Gold ; Hair/chemistry ; Humans ; Indians, South American ; Mercury/*analysis/blood/urine ; Mercury Poisoning, Nervous System/blood/*psychology/urine ; Mining ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {Performance on Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test of visual-spatial reasoning was used to evaluate the effects of mercury (Hg) exposure on 73 Andean children aged 5 to 11 years (mean: 8.4) living in the Nambija and Portovelo gold mining areas of Ecuador, where Hg is widely used in amalgamation. Mean levels of Hg found in blood (Hg(B)), urine (Hg(U)), and hair (Hg(H)) samples were 5.1 microg/L (SD: 2.4; range: 1-10 microg/L), 13.3 microg/L (SD: 25.9; range: 1-166 microg/L), and 8.5 microg/g (SD: 22.8; range: 1-135 microg/g), respectively. Of the children in the Nambija area 67-84.9% had abnormal RCPM standard scores (i.e., < or = 25%tile), depending on the test norm used in the data analysis. Higher standard scores for Peruvian (t = 4.77; p = < 0.0001) and Puerto Rican (t = 4.51; p = < 0.0001) norms than for U.S. norms suggested a linguistic influence. No difference was found between Peruvian and Puerto Rican norms (t = 0.832; p = < 0.408), which showed a significant positive correlation (r = 0.915, p = < 0.0001). Children with abnormal Hg(B) and Hg(H) levels had significantly lower scores on the RCPM subtest B than did children with nontoxic Hg levels (t = -2.16; p = < 0.034). These results suggest that a substantial number of Hg-exposed children in the Nambija study area have neurocognitive deficits in visual-spatial reasoning.}, }
@article {pmid16957494, year = {2006}, author = {Smith, RM and Tivarus, M and Campbell, HL and Hillier, A and Beversdorf, DQ}, title = {Apparent transient effects of recent "ecstasy" use on cognitive performance and extrapyramidal signs in human subjects.}, journal = {Cognitive and behavioral neurology : official journal of the Society for Behavioral and Cognitive Neurology}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {157-164}, doi = {10.1097/01.wnn.0000213909.41901.cc}, pmid = {16957494}, issn = {1543-3633}, support = {K23 NS 432222/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; R21 DA015734/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Basal Ganglia Diseases/chemically induced ; Blinking/drug effects ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Cognition Disorders/*chemically induced ; Extrapyramidal Tracts/*drug effects ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/drug effects ; Hallucinogens/adverse effects/*pharmacology ; Humans ; Male ; Matched-Pair Analysis ; Motor Skills/drug effects ; N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine/adverse effects/*pharmacology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinsonian Disorders/chemically induced/diagnosis ; Pilot Projects ; Problem Solving/*drug effects ; Reference Values ; Time Factors ; Verbal Learning/drug effects ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Our purpose is to investigate cognitive performance and extrapyramidal function early after ecstasy use.<br><br>BACKGROUND: Ecstasy, containing 3,4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine, has shown evidence of causing cognitive deficits and parkinsonian signs. Previous research has examined cognitive performance after a period of prolonged abstinence, but research assessing the early effects of ecstasy after recent use is limited despite temporal neurochemical differences demonstrated in nonhuman models.<br><br>METHODS: This study compared task performance between 13 ecstasy users (10 to 15 h postdrug use) and a control group on a battery of neuropsychologic assessments while matching for education level, sleep deprivation, and premorbid IQ. The groups were also compared on measures relating to parkinsonian signs.<br><br>RESULTS: The ecstasy subjects showed impairments on measures of executive function as evaluated by Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Task (WCST). Short-delay free recall memory was also impaired in ecstasy subjects on the California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT-II). No extrapyramidal motor impairments were detected.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: These deficits resemble deficits previously reported in chronic ecstasy use but also seem to reveal transient impairments in executive function. Future research is needed to better understand the neurologic and neuropsychologic implications of ecstasy use across time and extent of use.}, }
@article {pmid16953956, year = {2006}, author = {Schwarzwald, J and Koslowsky, M and Brody-Shamir, S}, title = {Factors related to perceived power usage in schools.}, journal = {The British journal of educational psychology}, volume = {76}, number = {Pt 3}, pages = {445-462}, doi = {10.1348/000709905X39189}, pmid = {16953956}, issn = {0007-0998}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Attitude ; Child ; Conflict, Psychological ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Faculty ; Female ; Humans ; Interpersonal Relations ; Male ; *Power, Psychological ; *Schools ; *Social Behavior ; Students ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {Based on Raven's (1992) power interaction model, situational and personal variables were examined as determinants of power choice in educational settings. The impact of educational sector (secular, religious), class level, gender and content of conflict on perceived power usage in teacher-pupil conflicts was analysed. A total of 370 elementary and junior high school pupils and 62 teachers from the same schools responded to a series of scenarios where they were asked how often specific power bases are used by teachers in trying to gain compliance. Results indicated that harsh power bases were perceived as more prevalent in the secular educational sector rather than in the religious one, in junior high school rather than elementary school, for boys as compared with girls, and for conflicts stemming from students rather than teachers. Findings were interpreted in terms of conformity level and frequency of conflicts. The discussion also addresses the lack of correspondence between teacher and pupil responses.}, }
@article {pmid16950092, year = {2006}, author = {Byrne, RW}, title = {Animal cognition: know your enemy.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {16}, number = {17}, pages = {R686-8}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2006.08.009}, pmid = {16950092}, issn = {0960-9822}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; *Cognition ; *Competitive Behavior ; *Feeding Behavior ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {Food-storing corvids are able to remember which individual saw them store food, and take preventive action that is tailored to that particular competitor's knowledge. This raises the question of whether abilities like 'theory of mind' have arisen independently more than once in evolution.}, }
@article {pmid16941156, year = {2006}, author = {Hunt, GR and Rutledge, RB and Gray, RD}, title = {The right tool for the job: what strategies do wild New Caledonian crows use?.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {9}, number = {4}, pages = {307-316}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-006-0047-2}, pmid = {16941156}, issn = {1435-9448}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Comprehension ; *Crows ; Female ; *Intelligence ; Male ; *Problem Solving ; *Tool Use Behavior ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian crows Corvus moneduloides (NC crows) display sophisticated tool manufacture in the wild, but the cognitive strategy underlying these skills is poorly understood. Here, we investigate what strategy two free-living NC crows used in response to a tool-length task. The crows manufactured tools to extract food from vertical holes of different depths. The first tools they made in visits were of a similar length regardless of the hole depth. The typical length was usually too short to extract food from the deep holes, which ruled out a strategy of immediate causal inference on the first attempt in a trial. When the first tool failed, the crows made second tools significantly longer than the unsuccessful first tools. There was no evidence that the crows made the lengths of first tools to directly match hole depth. We argue that NC crows may generally use a two-stage heuristic strategy to solve tool problems and that performance on the first attempt in a trial is not necessarily the 'gold standard' for assessing folk physics.}, }
@article {pmid16930226, year = {2006}, author = {Brown, LA and Cook, RT and Jerrells, TR and Kolls, JK and Nagy, LE and Szabo, G and Wands, JR and Kovacs, EJ}, title = {Acute and chronic alcohol abuse modulate immunity.}, journal = {Alcoholism, clinical and experimental research}, volume = {30}, number = {9}, pages = {1624-1631}, doi = {10.1111/j.1530-0277.2006.00195.x}, pmid = {16930226}, issn = {0145-6008}, support = {AA010384/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA011876/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA011975/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA013275/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA014405/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA07731/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA08577/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA12034/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA12034-S1/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA12197/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA135757/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA20169/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA20666/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; R13 AA015276/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Alcohol Drinking/*immunology ; Alcoholism/*immunology ; Animals ; Humans ; }, abstract = {This article represents the proceedings of the Alcohol and Immunology Research Interest Group (AIRIG) meeting, a satellite workshop held at the 37th Annual Meeting of the Society for Leukocyte Biology. The meeting was sponsored by the AIRIG and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. The presentations were as follows: (1) Effects of Ethanol on Immune Response to Hepatitis C Virus by Jack R. Wands, (2) Alcohol and Alveolar Macrophage Dysfunction: The Role of Chronic Oxidant Stress by Lou Ann S. Brown, (3) T Cell Responses to Listeria monocytogenes in Mice on a Chronic Ethanol Exposure Protocol by Robert T. Cook, (4) Mechanisms of Acute and Chronic Alcohol Consumption on Severity of Viral Infections by the Liver and Pancreas by Thomas R. Jerrells, (5) Acute and Chronic Effects on Macrophage Ectodomain Shedding: Implications for Lung Host Defenses by Jay K. Kolls, (6) Increased Susceptibility to Pseudomonas Infection of Burn-Injured Mice Given Alcohol Before Injury by Elizabeth J. Kovacs, (7) Regulation of Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha Expression in Macrophages by Chronic Ethanol by Laura E. Nagy, and (8) Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Alcohol Use by Gyongyi Szabo. Meeting coorganizers were Elizabeth J. Kovacs, Lou Ann S. Brown, Thomas R. Jerrells, and Robert T. Cook.}, }
@article {pmid16928635, year = {2006}, author = {Kilpatrick, AM and Daszak, P and Jones, MJ and Marra, PP and Kramer, LD}, title = {Host heterogeneity dominates West Nile virus transmission.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {273}, number = {1599}, pages = {2327-2333}, pmid = {16928635}, issn = {0962-8452}, support = {N01AI25490/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*virology ; Culicidae/*physiology/virology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; West Nile Fever/*transmission ; West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Heterogeneity in host populations and communities can have large effects on the transmission and control of a pathogen. In extreme cases, a few individuals give rise to the majority of secondary infections, which have been termed super spreading events. Here, we show that transmission of West Nile virus (WNV) is dominated by extreme heterogeneity in the host community, resulting in highly inflated reproductive ratios. A single relatively uncommon avian species, American robin (Turdus migratorius), appeared to be responsible for the majority of WNV-infectious mosquitoes and acted as the species equivalent of a super spreader for this multi-host pathogen. Crows were also highly preferred by mosquitoes at some sites, while house sparrows were significantly avoided. Nonetheless, due to their relative rarity, corvids (crows and jays) were relatively unimportant in WNV amplification. These results challenge current beliefs about the role of certain avian species in WNV amplification and demonstrate the importance of determining contact rates between vectors and host species to understand pathogen transmission dynamics.}, }
@article {pmid16923936, year = {2006}, author = {O'Donnell, CP and Gibson, AT and Davis, PG}, title = {Pinching, electrocution, ravens' beaks, and positive pressure ventilation: a brief history of neonatal resuscitation.}, journal = {Archives of disease in childhood. Fetal and neonatal edition}, volume = {91}, number = {5}, pages = {F369-73}, pmid = {16923936}, issn = {1359-2998}, mesh = {Asphyxia Neonatorum/*history/therapy ; History, 18th Century ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; History, Ancient ; Humans ; Infant Care/*history/methods ; Infant, Newborn ; Positive-Pressure Respiration/history ; Resuscitation/*history ; }, abstract = {Since ancient times many different methods have been used to revive newborns. Although subject to the vagaries of fashion for 2000 years, artificial respiration has been accepted as the mainstay of neonatal resuscitation for about the last 40. Formal teaching programmes have evolved over the last 20 years. The last 10 years have seen international collaboration, which has resulted in careful evaluation of the available evidence and publication of recommendations for clinical practice. There is, however, little evidence to support current recommendations, which are largely based on expert opinion. The challenge for neonatologists today is to gather robust evidence to support or refute these recommendations, thereby refining this common and important intervention.}, }
@article {pmid16922851, year = {2006}, author = {Pihlaja, M and Siitari, H and Alatalo, RV}, title = {Maternal antibodies in a wild altricial bird: effects on offspring immunity, growth and survival.}, journal = {The Journal of animal ecology}, volume = {75}, number = {5}, pages = {1154-1164}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2656.2006.01136.x}, pmid = {16922851}, issn = {0021-8790}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies/blood/immunology/*physiology ; Antibody Formation/immunology ; Eating/immunology ; Growth and Development/immunology ; Immunoglobulin G/blood/immunology/*physiology ; Linear Models ; Passeriformes/*growth &amp; development/*immunology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {1. In many animals immunity is not fully developed until adulthood but the young still need protection against various sets of pathogens. Thus, bird nestlings are highly dependent on antibodies received from their mother (in the eggs) during their rapid early growth period. The relationship between maternal immunity and the development of neonates' own immunity has been poorly studied. 2. It has been suggested that immune function plays an important part in mediating resource competition between different life-history traits, e.g. growth and reproduction. Maternal investment of antibodies has potentially permanent effects on offspring phenotype. Thus, the trade-offs between the immune function and other important life-history traits in the offspring will also affect the fitness of the mother. 3. Our supplemental feeding experiment in the magpie Pica pica indicates that the immunoglobulin levels of offspring at hatching are dependent on a mother's nutritional condition. In addition, the amount of maternal immunoglobulins transferred to offspring increases along the laying order within a nest. 4. We also found that at the age of 8-10 days the immunoglobulin production of the offspring has already begun. Furthermore, the maternal immunoglobulin levels of the offspring at hatching were positively related to their immunoglobulin levels on day 10. 5. Maternal immunoglobulins did not significantly affect offspring growth, but there was a negative relationship between self-produced immunoglobulins and growth over the first 10 days, indicating a trade-off between these traits. Nestlings' weight, however, had a positive relationship with immunoglobulin production suggesting that the observed trade-off between growth and immunoglobulin production is due to catch-up growth of nestlings with a low hatching weight. We found that within nests nestlings with higher maternal antibody levels had higher survival rate until day 20, but between nests there was an opposite relationship. 6. Evidently, there is a trade-off, in magpies, between maternal resources, immune function and growth, shaping the evolution of maternal investment in offspring immunity.}, }
@article {pmid16922849, year = {2006}, author = {Gimona, A and Brewer, MJ}, title = {Local environmental effects and spatial effects in macroecological studies using mapped abundance classes: the case of the rook Corvus frugilegus in Scotland.}, journal = {The Journal of animal ecology}, volume = {75}, number = {5}, pages = {1140-1146}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2656.2006.01134.x}, pmid = {16922849}, issn = {0021-8790}, mesh = {Animals ; Bayes Theorem ; Crows/*physiology ; Ecology ; *Environment ; Geography ; *Models, Biological ; Population Density ; Scotland ; }, abstract = {1. The study of the spatial pattern of species abundance is complicated by statistical problems, such as spatial autocorrelation of the abundance data, which lead to the confusion of environmental effects and dispersal. 2. Atlas-derived data for the rook in Scotland are used as a case study to propose an approach for assessing the likely contribution of dispersal and local environmental effects, based on a Bayesian Conditional Autoregressive (CAR) approach. 3. The availability of moist grasslands is a key factor explaining the spatial pattern of abundance. This is influenced by a combination of climatic and soil-related factors. A direct link to soil properties is for the first time reported for the wide-scale distribution of a bird species. In addition, for this species, dispersal seems to contribute significantly to the spatial pattern and produces a smoother than expected decline in abundance at the north-western edge of its distribution range. Areas where dispersal is most likely to be important are highlighted. 4. The approach described can help ecologists make more efficient use of atlas data for the investigation of the structure of species abundance, and can highlight potential sink areas at the landscape and regional scale. 5. Bayesian spatial models can deal with data autocorrelation in atlas-type data, while clearly communicating uncertainty through the estimation of the full posterior probability distribution of all parameters.}, }
@article {pmid16912997, year = {2004}, author = {}, title = {Festschrift in honor of Dr. Jay Y. Gillenwater.}, journal = {The Journal of urology}, volume = {172}, number = {6 Pt 2}, pages = {2519-2578}, pmid = {16912997}, issn = {0022-5347}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Urology/*history ; Virginia ; }, }
@article {pmid16909235, year = {2006}, author = {Bugnyar, T and Heinrich, B}, title = {Pilfering ravens, Corvus corax, adjust their behaviour to social context and identity of competitors.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {9}, number = {4}, pages = {369-376}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-006-0035-6}, pmid = {16909235}, issn = {1435-9448}, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological ; Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Competitive Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; *Deception ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; Social Behavior ; *Social Environment ; }, abstract = {Like other corvids, food-storing ravens protect their caches from being pilfered by conspecifics by means of aggression and by re-caching. In the wild and in captivity, potential pilferers rarely approach caches until the storers have left the cache vicinity. When storers are experimentally prevented from leaving, pilferers first search at places other than the cache sites. These behaviours raise the possibility that ravens are capable of withholding intentions and providing false information to avoid provoking the storers' aggression for cache protection. Alternatively, birds may refrain from pilfering to avoid conflicts with dominants. Here we examined whether ravens adjust their pilfer tactics according to social context and type of competitors. We allowed birds that had witnessed a conspecific making caches to pilfer those caches either in private, together with the storer, or together with a conspecific bystander that had not created the caches (non-storer) but had seen them being made. Compared to in-private trials, ravens delayed approaching the caches only in the presence of storers. Furthermore, they quickly engaged in searching away from the caches when together with dominant storers but directly approached the caches when together with dominant non-storers. These findings demonstrate that ravens selectively alter their pilfer behaviour with those individuals that are likely to defend the caches (storers) and support the interpretation that they are deceptively manipulating the others' behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid16903131, year = {2006}, author = {Schrauf, RW and Weintraub, S and Navarro, E}, title = {Is adaptation of the word accentuation test of premorbid intelligence necessary for use among older, Spanish-speaking immigrants in the United States?.}, journal = {Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society : JINS}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, pages = {391-399}, doi = {10.1017/s1355617706060462}, pmid = {16903131}, issn = {1355-6177}, support = {P30 AG13854/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Alzheimer Disease/diagnosis/*ethnology ; Dementia/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Emigration and Immigration/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Feasibility Studies ; Hispanic or Latino/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Language ; Multilingualism ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Phonetics ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Severity of Illness Index ; United States/epidemiology ; *Vocabulary ; }, abstract = {Adaptations of the National Adult Reading Test (NART) for assessing premorbid intelligence in languages other than English requires (a) generating word-items that are rare and do not follow grapheme-to-phoneme mappings common in that language, and (b) subsequent validation against a cognitive battery normed on the population of interest. Such tests exist for Italy, France, Spain, and Argentina, all normed against national versions of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale. Given the varieties of Spanish spoken in the United States, the adaptation of the Spanish Word Accentuation Test (WAT) requires re-validating the original word list, plus possible new items, against a cognitive battery that has been normed on Spanish-speakers from many countries. This study reports the generation of 55 additional words and revalidation in a sample of 80 older, Spanish-dominant immigrants. The Batería Woodcock-Muñoz Revisada (BWM-R), normed on Spanish speakers from six countries and five U.S. states, was used to establish criterion validity. The original WAT word list accounted for 77% of the variance in the BWM-R and 58% of the variance in Ravens Colored Progressive Matrices, suggesting that the unmodified list possesses adequate predictive validity as an indicator of intelligence. Regression equations are provided for estimating BWM-R and Ravens scores from WAT scores.}, }
@article {pmid16898460, year = {2006}, author = {Luo, W and Li, J and Price, RA and Chen, L and Yang, J and Fan, J and Chen, Z and McNeeley, S and Xu, X and Ma, CM}, title = {Monte Carlo based IMRT dose verification using MLC log files and R/V outputs.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {33}, number = {7}, pages = {2557-2564}, doi = {10.1118/1.2208916}, pmid = {16898460}, issn = {0094-2405}, support = {CA78331/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Computer Simulation ; Data Interpretation, Statistical ; Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation ; Humans ; Male ; Monte Carlo Method ; Prostatic Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Radiometry/*methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated/*methods ; Reproducibility of Results ; Software ; }, abstract = {Conventional IMRT dose verification using film and ion chamber measurements is useful but limited with respect to the actual dose distribution received by the patient. The Monte Carlo simulation has been introduced as an independent dose verification tool for IMRT using the patient CT data and MLC leaf sequence files, which validates the dose calculation accuracy but not the plan delivery accuracy. In this work, we propose a Monte Carlo based IMRT dose verification method that reconstructs the patient dose distribution using the patient CT, actual beam data based on the information from the record and verify system (R/V), and the MLC log files obtained during dose delivery that record the MLC leaf positions and MUs delivered. Comparing the Monte Carlo dose calculation with the original IMRT plan using these data simultaneously validates the accuracy of both the IMRT dose calculation and beam delivery. Such log file based Monte Carlo simulations are expected to be employed as a useful and efficient IMRT QA modality to validate the dose delivered to the patient. We have run Monte Carlo simulations for eight IMRT prostate plans using this method and the results for the target dose were consistent with the original CORVUS treatment plans to within 3.0% and 2.0% with and without heterogeneity corrections in the dose calculation. However, significant dose deviations in nearby critical structures have been observed. The results showed that up to 9.0% of the bladder dose and up to 38.0% of the rectum dose, to which leaf position errors were found to contribute <2%, were underestimated by the CORVUS treatment planning system. The concept of average leaf position error has been defined to analyze MLC leaf position errors for an IMRT plan. A linear correlation between the target dose error and the average position error has been found based on log file based Monte Carlo simulations, showing that an average position error of 0.2 mm can result in a target dose error of about 1.0%.}, }
@article {pmid16897412, year = {2006}, author = {Banks, KH and Kohn-Wood, LP and Spencer, M}, title = {An examination of the African American experience of everyday discrimination and symptoms of psychological distress.}, journal = {Community mental health journal}, volume = {42}, number = {6}, pages = {555-570}, pmid = {16897412}, issn = {0010-3853}, mesh = {Activities of Daily Living/psychology ; Adult ; Anxiety Disorders/diagnosis/*psychology ; Black People/*psychology ; Depressive Disorder/diagnosis/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Prejudice ; Risk Factors ; Social Environment ; Black or African American ; }, abstract = {Current theoretical models suggest that the most potent and impacting discrimination experienced by African Americans in the post Jim Crow era are subtle and unconscious forms of discrimination that are experienced on a daily basis. This study investigates the relationship between perceived everyday discrimination and anxiety and depressive symptoms. Further, we examine gender as a moderator of this relationship. Data come from the 1995 Detroit Area Study data with 570 African American respondents. Results indicate that perceived discrimination is directly related to both symptoms of depression and anxiety. Gender moderates the relationship between discrimination and anxiety symptoms, but not discrimination and depressive symptoms. Overall, different patterns of relationships were apparent for men and women.}, }
@article {pmid16896595, year = {2006}, author = {Dobler, B and Lorenz, F and Wertz, H and Polednik, M and Wolff, D and Steil, V and Lohr, F and Wenz, F}, title = {Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) with different combinations of treatment-planning systems and linacs: issues and how to detect them.}, journal = {Strahlentherapie und Onkologie : Organ der Deutschen Rontgengesellschaft ... [et al]}, volume = {182}, number = {8}, pages = {481-488}, doi = {10.1007/s00066-006-1544-6}, pmid = {16896595}, issn = {0179-7158}, mesh = {Film Dosimetry ; Humans ; Phantoms, Imaging ; *Quality Assurance, Health Care ; Radiometry ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/instrumentation/methods ; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated/*instrumentation/*standards ; Software ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To compare different combinations of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) system components with regard to quality assurance (QA), especially robustness against malfunctions and dosimetry.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: Three different treatment-planning systems (TPS), two types of linacs and three multileaf collimator (MLC) types were compared: commissioning procedures were performed for the combination of the TPS Corvus 5.0 (Nomos) and KonRad v2.1.3 (Siemens OCS) with the linacs KD2 (Siemens) and Synergy (Elekta). For PrecisePLAN 2.03 (Elekta) measurements were performed for Elekta Synergy only. As record and verify (R&amp;V) system Multi-Access v7 (IMPAC) was used. The use of the serial tomotherapy system Peacock (Nomos) was investigated in combination with the Siemens KD2 linac.<br><br>RESULTS: In the comparison of calculated to measured dose, problems were encountered for the combination of KonRad and Elekta MLC as well as for the Peacock system. Multi-Access failed to assign the collimator angle correctly for plans with multiple collimator angles per beam. Communication problems of Multi-Access with both linacs were observed, resulting in incorrect recording of the treatment. All reported issues were addressed by the manufacturers.<br><br>CONCLUSION: For the commissioning of IMRT systems, the whole chain from the TPS to the linac has to be investigated. Components that passed the commissioning in another clinical environment can have severe malfunctions when used in a new environment. Therefore, not only single components but the whole chain from planning to delivery has to be evaluated in commissioning and checked regularly for QA.}, }
@article {pmid16896147, year = {2006}, author = {Ward, MP and Raim, A and Yaremych-Hamer, S and Lampman, R and Novak, RJ}, title = {Does the roosting behavior of birds affect transmission dynamics of West Nile virus?.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {75}, number = {2}, pages = {350-355}, pmid = {16896147}, issn = {0002-9637}, support = {U50/CCU 52051//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Bird Diseases/*transmission/*virology ; Crows/physiology/virology ; Illinois ; Passeriformes/*physiology/*virology ; Population Dynamics ; Radio Waves ; Time Factors ; West Nile Fever/transmission/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/physiology ; }, abstract = {The potential role of many urban passerine birds in the transmission of West Nile virus (WNV) is well-documented by studies on host competency, seroprevalence in wild birds, and identification of vector blood meal source. In contrast, the impact of bird behavior on transmission dynamics is largely unexplored. Bird roosting (perching) behavior may be a critical component regulating WNV transmission because of the crepuscular/nocturnal feeding behavior of Culex mosquitoes, the primary vectors of WNV. We used radio telemetry to determine the roosting behavior of American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and northern cardinals (Cardinalus cardinalus). On average, healthy crows moved slightly shorter distances between roosts than viremic crows, 1,038.3 meters versus 1,255.5 meters, while cardinals only moved 54.7 meters. Given the average movements of crows and cardinals between roosts, crows, which are viremic for five days, could spread the virus throughout a mean +/- SE area of 20.84 +/- 0.79 km(2), while viremic cardinals would, on average, only spread the virus over a mean +/- SE area of 0.03 +/- 0.01 km(2). Because the crow population in Illinois is decreasing at a rate of 11.5% per year and up to 35.6% per year in certain locations, crows are becoming scarce in some areas, thus reducing their role as wild bird sentinels. We suggest that if crows are important in dispersing WNV, large decreases in their abundance will shift transmission cycles to a more focal nature because of the differences in roosting behavior of crows compared with other urban birds, such as cardinals.}, }
@article {pmid16896143, year = {2006}, author = {Sawabe, K and Hoshino, K and Isawa, H and Sasaki, T and Hayashi, T and Tsuda, Y and Kurahashi, H and Tanabayashi, K and Hotta, A and Saito, T and Yamada, A and Kobayashi, M}, title = {Detection and isolation of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza A viruses from blow flies collected in the vicinity of an infected poultry farm in Kyoto, Japan, 2004.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {75}, number = {2}, pages = {327-332}, pmid = {16896143}, issn = {0002-9637}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence/genetics ; Animals ; Chick Embryo ; Diptera/classification/*virology ; Hemagglutinins/genetics ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/*isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity ; Influenza in Birds/*transmission/virology ; Insect Vectors/classification/*virology ; Japan ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Neuraminidase/genetics ; Poultry ; Poultry Diseases/*transmission/virology ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction/methods ; Sequence Alignment ; Viral Matrix Proteins/genetics ; }, abstract = {During the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza that occurred in Tamba Town, Kyoto Prefecture in 2004, a total of 926 flies were collected from six sites within a radius of 2.3 km from the poultry farm. The H5 influenza A virus genes were detected from the intestinal organs, crop, and gut of the two blow fly species, Calliphora nigribarbis and Aldrichina grahami, by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction for the matrix protein (M) and hemagglutinin (HA) genes. The HA gene encoding multiple basic amino acids at the HA cleavage site indicated that this virus is a highly pathogenic strain. Based on the full-length sequences of the M, HA, and neuraminidase (NA) segments of virus isolates through embryonated chicken eggs, the virus from C. nigribarbis (A/blow fly/Kyoto/93/2004) was characterized as H5N1 subtype influenza A virus and shown to have > 99.9% identities in all three RNA segments to a strain from chickens (A/chicken/Kyoto/3/2004) and crows (A/crows/Kyoto/53/2004) derived during this outbreak period in Kyoto in 2004. Our results suggest it is possible that blow flies could become a mechanical transmitter of H5N1 influenza virus.}, }
@article {pmid16893266, year = {2006}, author = {Helme, AE and Clayton, NS and Emery, NJ}, title = {What do rooks (Corvus frugilegus) understand about physical contact?.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {120}, number = {3}, pages = {288-293}, doi = {10.1037/0735-7036.120.3.288}, pmid = {16893266}, issn = {0735-7036}, mesh = {Animals ; *Appetitive Behavior ; Awareness ; *Birds ; Comprehension ; *Concept Formation ; Cues ; Female ; Kinesthesis ; Male ; *Orientation ; Physical Phenomena ; *Physics ; *Problem Solving ; Proprioception ; *Psychomotor Performance ; Transfer, Psychology ; }, abstract = {Rooks (Corvus frugilegus) do not use tools, but rapidly solve tests of physical cognition. The authors tested whether rooks understand the concept of physical contact using a task comprising a clear horizontal tube containing a stick with a disk attached to it and a piece of food. The rooks chose which side to pull the stick from to make the food accessible. Two configurations were used, with either the food or disk central along the tube. All 8 rooks solved the food-central configuration, but failed the disk-central configuration. Although they did not demonstrate an understanding of contact, further tests established that they could learn to solve these tasks provided there were salient stick cues. This result may arise because sticks are ecologically important for rooks.}, }
@article {pmid16891781, year = {2006}, author = {Sato, H and Suzuki, K and Aoki, M}, title = {Juvenile bird acanthocephalans recovered incidentally from raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides viverrinus) on Yakushima Island, Japan.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {68}, number = {7}, pages = {689-692}, doi = {10.1292/jvms.68.689}, pmid = {16891781}, issn = {0916-7250}, mesh = {Acanthocephala/anatomy &amp; histology/classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; Animals ; Birds/*parasitology ; Esophagus/parasitology ; Female ; Heart/parasitology ; Helminthiasis, Animal/*parasitology ; Intestine, Large/parasitology ; Intestine, Small/parasitology ; Japan ; Male ; Raccoon Dogs/*parasitology ; }, abstract = {Helminth parasites were collected from 14 raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides viverrinus) and 2 Japanese weasels (Mustela itatsi sho) on Yakushima Island, Kagoshima Prefecture (Kyushu), Japan. In addition to trematodes and nematodes reported separately, everted cystacanths of 3 bird acanthocephalans (Mediorhynchus robustus in 5 animals, Porrorchis leibyi in 2 animals, and Sphaerirostris lanceoides in 1 animal) were collected from the raccoon dogs introduced recently on this World Natural Heritage Area. A cystacanth of P. leibyi was collected also from a weasel indigenous to this island that were killed by traffic accidents. Recovery of everted cystacanths of M. robustus from the intestine of raccoon dogs was remarkably frequent (36%), suggesting that this acanthocephalan should be highly prevalent in passerine hosts on Yakushima Island, and the animals might vigorously take insect hosts or paratenic hosts. Furthermore, the present report is the second on M. robustus after its first record in Japan (Aichi Prefecture, Honshu) as M. garruli from a Eurasian jay (Garrulus glandarius japonicus) by Yamaguti in 1939. Porrorchis leibyi has never been recorded in Japan.}, }
@article {pmid16886412, year = {2001}, author = {Frońska-Popiel, A and Okulewicz, A and Perec, A}, title = {[Immune response of jackdaw (Corvus monedula) to antigens of Capillaria resecta (Nematoda)-western blotting analysis].}, journal = {Wiadomosci parazytologiczne}, volume = {47}, number = {4}, pages = {693-698}, pmid = {16886412}, issn = {0043-5163}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Helminth/analysis/immunology ; Antigens, Helminth/*immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; Antigens, Surface/immunology ; Blotting, Western/methods ; Capillaria/classification/*physiology ; Crows/*immunology/*parasitology ; Host-Parasite Interactions ; Immunoglobulins/*analysis/immunology ; }, abstract = {Biotinylated surface and somatic protein extracts of the nematode Capillaria resecta were analysed by SDS-PAGE followed by Western blotting in order to examine their antigenic character. The antigens were probing with serum of C. resecta naturally infected birds (jackdaws). Surface and somatic antigens were recognised by serum IgG, IgA and IgM antibodies. The most intense reactivity of sera was evident with TBS-soluble surface proteins. The present paper has shown that surface proteins of C. resecta are more immunogenic than somatic and they are able to elicit stronger immune response in the bird's body.}, }
@article {pmid16884020, year = {2006}, author = {Garvin, MC and Schoech, SJ}, title = {Hormone levels and infection of Haemoproteus danilewskyi in free-ranging blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata).}, journal = {The Journal of parasitology}, volume = {92}, number = {3}, pages = {659-662}, doi = {10.1645/GE-759R.1}, pmid = {16884020}, issn = {0022-3395}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*metabolism/parasitology ; Corticosterone/blood/metabolism ; Estradiol/blood/metabolism ; Female ; Haemosporida/*physiology ; Hormones/blood/*metabolism ; Linear Models ; Logistic Models ; Luteinizing Hormone/blood/metabolism ; Male ; Passeriformes/*parasitology ; Prevalence ; Progesterone/blood/metabolism ; Prolactin/blood/metabolism ; Protozoan Infections, Animal/epidemiology/*metabolism/parasitology ; Recurrence ; Seasons ; Sex Factors ; Testosterone/blood/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Annual spring relapse of blood parasite infections in birds is believed to be the result of hormonal changes associated with breeding. As part of a larger study on the epizootiology of Haemoproteus danilewskyi in blue jays in south-central Florida, we studied the relationship between H. danilewskyi infections and levels of luteinizing hormone, prolactin, progesterone, testosterone, estradiol, and corticosterone. We found a positive association between intensity of H. danilewskyi infection and corticosterone levels in females but not in males. We also found no association between infection and levels of prolactin, luteinizing hormone, progesterone, testosterone, or estradiol in males or females. In addition, we found a positive relationship between levels of corticosterone and handling time and between corticosterone and testosterone levels. We suggest a possible influence of corticosterone on spring relapse of Haemoproteus spp. infections in birds but provide no support for the influence of breeding hormones on relapse of these parasites.}, }
@article {pmid16878181, year = {2005}, author = {Garamszegi, LZ and Lucas, JR}, title = {Continental variation in relative hippocampal volume in birds: the phylogenetic extent of the effect and the potential role of winter temperatures.}, journal = {Biology letters}, volume = {1}, number = {3}, pages = {330-333}, pmid = {16878181}, issn = {1744-9561}, support = {R01 MH062602-01/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology/classification/genetics/physiology ; Ecology ; Europe ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Hippocampus/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Life Cycle Stages/genetics ; North America ; Phylogeny ; Seasons ; Species Specificity ; Temperature ; }, abstract = {Hippocampal (HC) volume has been hypothesized to increase with an increase in food-hoarding specialization in corvids and parids. Recent studies revealed that (i) the HC/hoarding relationship is significant when a difference in HC volume between Eurasian and North American species is controlled for and (ii) the evolutionary association has been acting on a broader phylogenetic context involving avian families outside the Corvidae and Paridae. However, the phylogenetic extent of the continent effect has not been previously addressed. Using data representing 48 avian species, we performed a phylogenetic analysis to test if continental effects are important in a wider evolutionary spectrum. Our results support the observation that Eurasian species have generally larger HC than North American species if variation in food hoarding, which also varied between continents, was held constant. Surprisingly, the relationship between continental distribution and relative HC volume was significant when we included only non-hoarding families in our analysis, indicating that the extent of the continent effect is much broader than originally described. We investigated the potential role of minimal winter temperatures at the northernmost distribution borders in mediating continent effects. The effect of winter temperatures on HC volume was weak and it did not vary consistently along continents. We suggest that the general continental differences in relative HC size are independent of food hoarding and that its determinants should be sought among other ecological factors and life-history traits.}, }
@article {pmid16860451, year = {2006}, author = {Leask, SJ and Crow, TJ}, title = {A single optimum degree of hemispheric specialisation in two tasks, in two UK national birth cohorts.}, journal = {Brain and cognition}, volume = {62}, number = {3}, pages = {221-227}, doi = {10.1016/j.bandc.2006.06.001}, pmid = {16860451}, issn = {0278-2626}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Brain/*physiology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cohort Studies ; Data Interpretation, Statistical ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Functional Laterality/*physiology ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Motor Skills ; Normal Distribution ; Reference Values ; Sex Factors ; Task Performance and Analysis ; United Kingdom ; Verbal Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {How differences between the two sides of the brain (or 'laterality') relate to level of function are important components of theories of the origin and purpose of hemispheric asymmetry, although different measures show different relationships, and this heterogeneity makes discerning any underlying relationships a difficult task. There are some exceptions, for example it has been concluded that increasing lateralization (eg of hand skill or planum temporale area) occurs at the expense of the non-dominant hemisphere. However, we have previously demonstrated this latter relationship to be an artefact: a consequence of plotting two variables against each other, that are not independent of each other [Leask, S. J., &amp; Crow, T. J. (1997) How far does the brain lateralize? An unbiased method for determining the optimum degree of hemispheric specialisation. Neuropsychologia, 36, 1275-1282; Mazoyer, B. M., &amp; Tzourio-Mazoyer, N. G. (2004). Title Planum temporale asymmetry and models of dominance for language: a reappraisal. Neuroreport, 15, 1057-1059]. Two approaches to discerning any underlying relationships are presented in data from over 20,000 10- and 11-year olds from the 1958 and 1970 UK national cohort studies. These demonstrate that maximal performance, both cognitive and hand function, is found in association with one particular degree of functional lateralization.}, }
@article {pmid16848944, year = {2006}, author = {Unterrainer, JM and Kaller, CP and Halsband, U and Rahm, B}, title = {Planning abilities and chess: a comparison of chess and non-chess players on the Tower of London task.}, journal = {British journal of psychology (London, England : 1953)}, volume = {97}, number = {Pt 3}, pages = {299-311}, doi = {10.1348/000712605X71407}, pmid = {16848944}, issn = {0007-1269}, mesh = {Adult ; *Aptitude ; Female ; *Games, Experimental ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term ; Motivation ; Orientation ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Play and Playthings ; *Problem Solving ; Reaction Time ; Verbal Learning ; }, abstract = {Playing chess requires problem-solving capacities in order to search through the chess problem space in an effective manner. Chess should thus require planning abilities for calculating many moves ahead. Therefore, we asked whether chess players are better problem solvers than non-chess players in a complex planning task. We compared planning performance between chess (N=25) and non-chess players (N=25) using a standard psychometric planning task, the Tower of London (ToL) test. We also assessed fluid intelligence (Raven Test), as well as verbal and visuospatial working memory. As expected, chess players showed better planning performance than non-chess players, an effect most strongly expressed in difficult problems. On the other hand, they showed longer planning and movement execution times, especially for incorrectly solved trials. No differences in fluid intelligence and verbal/visuospatial working memory were found between both groups. These findings indicate that better performance in chess players is associated with disproportionally longer solution times, although it remains to be investigated whether motivational or strategic differences account for this result.}, }
@article {pmid16846992, year = {2006}, author = {Tanimura, N and Tsukamoto, K and Okamatsu, M and Mase, M and Imada, T and Nakamura, K and Kubo, M and Yamaguchi, S and Irishio, W and Hayashi, M and Nakai, T and Yamauchi, A and Nishimura, M and Imai, K}, title = {Pathology of fatal highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus infection in large-billed crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) during the 2004 outbreak in Japan.}, journal = {Veterinary pathology}, volume = {43}, number = {4}, pages = {500-509}, doi = {10.1354/vp.43-4-500}, pmid = {16846992}, issn = {0300-9858}, mesh = {Animals ; Antigens, Viral/analysis ; Chickens ; *Crows ; Disease Outbreaks/*veterinary ; Female ; Hemagglutination Tests/veterinary ; Immunohistochemistry/veterinary ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/*growth &amp; development ; Influenza in Birds/epidemiology/*virology ; Japan/epidemiology ; Pancreas/pathology/virology ; }, abstract = {Highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza viruses were isolated in 9 large-billed crows that died in Kyoto and Osaka prefectures in Japan from March to April in 2004. We studied 3 of the 9 crows using standard histologic methods, immunohistochemistry, and virus isolation. The most prominent lesions were gross patchy areas of reddish discoloration in the pancreas. The consistent histologic lesions included severe multifocal necrotizing pancreatitis, focal degeneration and necrosis of neuron and glial cells in the central nervous system, and focal degeneration of cardiac myocytes. All of these tissues contained immunohistochemically positive influenza viral antigens. The virus was isolated from the brain, lung, heart, liver, spleen, and kidney of the crows examined. Thus we concluded that highly pathogenic avian influenza virus was associated with clinical disease, severe pathologic changes, and death in the 3 crows.}, }
@article {pmid16844502, year = {2006}, author = {Lee, MS and Lee, KH and Sin, HS and Um, SJ and Kim, JW and Koh, BK}, title = {A newly synthesized photostable retinol derivative (retinyl N-formyl aspartamate) for photodamaged skin: profilometric evaluation of 24-week study.}, journal = {Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology}, volume = {55}, number = {2}, pages = {220-224}, doi = {10.1016/j.jaad.2006.01.013}, pmid = {16844502}, issn = {1097-6787}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; Light/*adverse effects ; Middle Aged ; Retinyl Esters ; Single-Blind Method ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; Vitamin A/adverse effects/*analogs &amp; derivatives/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Retinol (vitamin A) is used in the cosmetics industry as an antiwrinkle agent. However, its photoinstability and skin irritation potential make it challenging to use in general cosmetic formulations.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of a newly synthesized photostable retinol derivative (retinyl N-formyl aspartamate) in patients with photodamaged skin. Retinyl N-formyl aspartamate is a newly synthesized retinol derivative with higher photostability, and a similar effect on collagenase expression level as retinol.<br><br>METHODS: In all, 29 Korean women (age range: 31-54 years), who were not pregnant, nursing, or undergoing any concurrent therapy, were enrolled in this study. A total of 24 patients completed a 24-week trial of retinyl N-formyl aspartamate twice daily on the left half of the face and a placebo on the right half of the face. A clinical evaluation, photographs, and silicone replicas of both crow's-feet areas were taken at baseline and at weeks 12, 20, and 24. Skin replicas were then analyzed using an optical profilometry technique. The standard wrinkle and roughness features were then calculated and statistically analyzed. The tolerance profile of the product was also clinically evaluated during the study.<br><br>RESULTS: The 24 women who completed this study showed more improvement on the left side of the crow's-feet area in terms of the signs of photodamage than on the right side according to both their own (P < .001) and the investigator's (P < .05) evaluations. These results were confirmed by skin replica analyses. The average roughness showed significant improvement (P < .001). The smoothness depth was improved, but this was not statistically significant. One patient noted burning and prickling sensations, and she withdrew during the study.<br><br>LIMITATIONS: Pigmentation changes were not assessed, investigators were not blinded, and the study size was relatively small.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In this small study retinyl N-formyl aspartamate applied on a photodamaged face twice daily was significantly more effective than a placebo without severe side effects.}, }
@article {pmid16842939, year = {2007}, author = {O'Callaghan, FV and O'Callaghan, M and Najman, JM and Williams, GM and Bor, W}, title = {Prenatal alcohol exposure and attention, learning and intellectual ability at 14 years: a prospective longitudinal study.}, journal = {Early human development}, volume = {83}, number = {2}, pages = {115-123}, doi = {10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2006.05.011}, pmid = {16842939}, issn = {0378-3782}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adolescent Development/*drug effects ; Adult ; *Alcohol Drinking ; Attention/drug effects/*physiology ; Ethanol/*adverse effects ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/drug effects/*physiology ; Learning/drug effects/*physiology ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Pregnancy ; *Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects ; Prospective Studies ; Regression Analysis ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: A range of adverse birth outcomes is associated with heavy prenatal alcohol exposure.<br><br>AIM: To examine the effects of moderate levels of alcohol consumption during pregnancy on children's intellectual ability, learning and attention at 14 years of age.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN AND SUBJECTS: The Mater-University of Queensland Study of Pregnancy involves a prospective birth cohort of 7223 singletons whose mothers were enrolled at the first antenatal visit. At 14 years, 5139 mothers and adolescents completed attentional and learning questionnaires, and 3731 adolescents completed psychometric assessments.<br><br>OUTCOME MEASURES: For adolescents, the Wide Range Achievement Test--Revised (WRAT-R) and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices Test (Raven's) were administered. Mothers completed the Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL) and adolescents completed the Youth Self Report (YSR). Learning was assessed by a series of questions in the mother and adolescent questionnaires. Maternal measures included the quantity and frequency of alcohol consumption, and the extent of binge drinking.<br><br>RESULTS: For consumption of <1 glass/day in early or late pregnancy, there was no association with any attention, learning or cognitive outcomes. The strongest estimates of effect were found among those consuming > or =1 glasses/day. Exposure in late pregnancy was associated with increased prevalence of overall learning difficulty in the unadjusted, although not the adjusted analysis. Binge drinking was associated with a higher prevalence of Raven's score <85 (1 standard deviation).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Although a number of study limitations need to be considered, the results suggest that consumption at the level of <1 drink/day does not lead to adverse outcomes in relation to attention, learning and cognitive abilities, as measured in the current research.}, }
@article {pmid16834521, year = {2006}, author = {Brown, RP and Day, EA}, title = {The difference isn't black and white: stereotype threat and the race gap on Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {The Journal of applied psychology}, volume = {91}, number = {4}, pages = {979-985}, doi = {10.1037/0021-9010.91.4.979}, pmid = {16834521}, issn = {0021-9010}, mesh = {Adult ; *Affect ; *Black People ; Cross-Cultural Comparison ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Social Behavior ; *Stereotyping ; *White People ; Black or African American ; }, abstract = {This study addresses recent criticisms aimed at the interpretation of stereotype threat research and methodological weaknesses of previous studies that have examined race differences on Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM). African American and White undergraduates completed the APM under three conditions. In two threat conditions, participants received either standard APM instructions (standard threat) or were told that the APM was an IQ test (high threat). In a low threat condition, participants were told that the APM was a set of puzzles and that the researchers wanted their opinions of them. Results supported the stereotype threat interpretation of race differences in cognitive ability test scores. Although African American participants underperformed Whites under both standard and high threat instructions, they performed just as well as Whites did under low threat instructions.}, }
@article {pmid16829138, year = {2006}, author = {Thoma, RJ and Yeo, RA and Gangestad, S and Halgren, E and Davis, J and Paulson, KM and Lewine, JD}, title = {Developmental instability and the neural dynamics of the speed-intelligence relationship.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {32}, number = {3}, pages = {1456-1464}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroimage.2006.05.016}, pmid = {16829138}, issn = {1053-8119}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aging/*physiology ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Magnetoencephalography ; Male ; Mental Processes/physiology ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Reaction Time/physiology ; Visual Cortex/physiology ; }, abstract = {Two of the most securely established findings in the biology of intelligence are the relationship between reaction time (RT) and intelligence, and the heritability of intelligence. To investigate why RT may related to intelligence, researchers have used a variety of techniques to subdivide RT into cognitive and motor components. In the current study, magnetoencephalographic (MEG) dipole latencies were used to examine the speed and timing of specific brain processing stages engaged during visually cued simple and choice reaction time tasks. Simple and choice reaction time and timing of MEG sources were considered in relation to fluid intelligence (as measured by the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices, RAPM). To address heritability of intelligence, developmental instability (DI) was assessed, measured here as fluctuating asymmetry. DI represents the degree to which an organism is susceptible to developmental stress arising from both environmental and genomic sources. Analyses showed that choice, but not simple reaction time was negatively correlated with RAPM score. MEG revealed a set of complex relationships between the timing of regional brain activations and psychometric intelligence. The neural component associated with integration of sensory and motor information was most associated with RAPM compared to other components. Higher values of fluctuating asymmetry predicted reduced psychometric intelligence, a result suggesting that some part of the variance of the heritability of intelligence reflects DI. Fluctuating asymmetry was significantly and negatively correlated with timing during all components of task completion. These observations suggest that fluid intelligence is primarily related to speed during processing associated with decision time, while fluctuating asymmetry predicted slower processing across all stages of information processing.}, }
@article {pmid16823409, year = {2006}, author = {Irwing, P and Lynn, R}, title = {Intelligence: is there a sex difference in IQ scores?.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {442}, number = {7098}, pages = {E1; discussion E1-2}, doi = {10.1038/nature04966}, pmid = {16823409}, issn = {1476-4687}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Meta-Analysis as Topic ; Mexico ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Sex Characteristics ; Students/psychology ; Universities ; Workforce ; }, abstract = {Arising from: S. Blinkhorn Nature 438, 31-32 (2005); Blinkhorn replies. Steve Blinkhorncriticizes our study of samples of university students, in which we found that the average IQ of men is 4.6 points higher than that of women, as measured by the Progressive (or Raven's) Matrices. He maintains that there is a negligible sex difference in adult intelligence. We believe that the principal error of Blinkhorn's criticism is that he does not consider our result in the context of several other studies showing that adult males have an IQ advantage of around 4-6 IQ points.}, }
@article {pmid16822747, year = {2006}, author = {Griesser, M and Nystrand, M and Ekman, J}, title = {Reduced mortality selects for family cohesion in a social species.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {273}, number = {1596}, pages = {1881-1886}, pmid = {16822747}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Mortality ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Predatory Behavior ; Reproduction ; Sexual Behavior, Animal ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Delayed dispersal is the key to family formation in most kin-societies. Previous explanations for the evolution of families have focused on dispersal constraints. Recently, an alternative explanation was proposed, emphasizing the benefits gained through philopatry. Empirical data have confirmed that parents provide their philopatric offspring with preferential treatment through enhanced access to food and predator protection. Yet it remains unclear to what extent such benefits translate into fitness benefits such as reduced mortality, which ultimately can select for the evolution of families. Here, we demonstrate that philopatric Siberian jay (Perisoreus infaustus) offspring have an odds ratio of being killed by predators 62% lower than offspring that dispersed promptly after independence to join groups of unrelated individuals (20.6% versus 33.3% winter mortality). Predation was the sole cause of mortality, killing 20 out of 73 juveniles fitted with radio tags. The higher survival rate among philopatric offspring was associated with parents providing nepotistic predator protection that was withheld from unrelated group members. Natal philopatry usually involves the suppression of personal reproduction. However, a lower mortality of philopatric offspring can overcome this cost and may thus select for the formation of families and set the scene for cooperative kin-societies.}, }
@article {pmid16814340, year = {2006}, author = {Ständker, L and Béress, L and Garateix, A and Christ, T and Ravens, U and Salceda, E and Soto, E and John, H and Forssmann, WG and Aneiros, A}, title = {A new toxin from the sea anemone Condylactis gigantea with effect on sodium channel inactivation.}, journal = {Toxicon : official journal of the International Society on Toxinology}, volume = {48}, number = {2}, pages = {211-220}, doi = {10.1016/j.toxicon.2006.05.001}, pmid = {16814340}, issn = {0041-0101}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Brachyura/drug effects/physiology ; Cells, Cultured ; Cnidarian Venoms/*chemistry ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Guinea Pigs ; Male ; Marine Toxins/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification/*toxicity ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Molecular Weight ; Muscle Contraction/drug effects/physiology ; Neurons/drug effects/metabolism ; Papillary Muscles/drug effects/physiopathology ; Paralysis/chemically induced/physiopathology ; Patch-Clamp Techniques ; Sea Anemones/*metabolism ; Sodium Channel Blockers/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification/*toxicity ; Sodium Channels/drug effects ; }, abstract = {A new peptide toxin exhibiting a molecular weight of 5043Da (av.) and comprising 47 amino acid residues was isolated from the sea anemone Condylactis gigantea. Purification of the peptide was achieved by a multistep chromatographic procedure monitoring its strong paralytic activity on crustacea (LD(50) approx. 1microg/kg). Complete sequence analysis of the toxic peptide revealed the isolation of a new member of type I sea anemone sodium channel toxins containing the typical pattern of the six cysteine residues. From 11kg of wet starting material, approximately 1g of the peptide toxin was isolated. The physiological action of the new toxin from C. gigantea CgNa was investigated on sodium currents of rat dorsal root ganglion neurons in culture using whole-cell patch clamp technique (n=60). Under current clamp condition (CgNa) increased action potential duration. This effect is due to slowing down of the TTX-S sodium current inactivation, without modifying the activation process. CgNa prolonged the cardiac action potential duration and enhanced contractile force albeit at 100-fold higher concentrations than the Anemonia sulcata toxin ATXII. The action on sodium channel inactivation and on cardiac excitation-contraction coupling resemble previous results with compounds obtained from this and other sea anemones [Shapiro, B.I., 1968. Purification of a toxin from tentacles of the anemone C. gigantea. Toxicon 5, 253-259; Pelhate, M., Zlotkin, E., 1982. Actions of insect toxin and other toxins derived from the venom of scorpion Androtonus australis on isolated giant axons of the cockroach Periplaneta americana. J. Exp. Biol. 97, 67-77; Salgado, V., Kem, W., 1992. Actions of three structurally distinct sea anemone toxins on crustacean and insect sodium channels. Toxicon 30, 1365-1381; Bruhn, T., Schaller, C., Schulze, C., Sanchez-Rodriquez, J., Dannmeier, C., Ravens, U., Heubach, J.F., Eckhardt, K., Schmidtmayer, J., Schmidt, H., Aneiros, A., Wachter, E., Béress, L., 2001. Isolation and characterization of 5 neurotoxic and cardiotoxic polypeptides from the sea anemone Anthopleura elegantissima. Toxicon, 39, 693-702]. Comprehensive analysis of the purified active fractions suggests that CgNa may represent the main peptide toxin of this sea anemone species.}, }
@article {pmid16809205, year = {2006}, author = {King, KA and Hough, MS and Walker, MM and Rastatter, M and Holbert, D}, title = {Mild traumatic brain injury: effects on naming in word retrieval and discourse.}, journal = {Brain injury}, volume = {20}, number = {7}, pages = {725-732}, doi = {10.1080/02699050600743824}, pmid = {16809205}, issn = {0269-9052}, mesh = {Adult ; Brain Injuries/*psychology ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Language Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology ; Male ; *Mental Recall ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Pilot Projects ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: To investigate differences between a group with mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) and a control group relative to standard scores and error type during word retrieval in both naming and discourse tasks.<br><br>METHODS AND PROCEDURES: Ten participants with MTBI were age-, gender- and education-matched with 10 participants without injury. Pre-experimental tasks for the participants with MTBI included the Scales of Cognitive Ability for Traumatic Brain Injury and the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices and both groups received the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-III. Experimental tasks included the Test of Adolescent/Adult Word Finding and the Test of Word Finding in Discourse.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOMES AND RESULTS: Few participants (three on each experimental task) demonstrated psychometrically-based word retrieval deficits (standard score < 85); however, a significant difference in performance for the TAWF as compared to the TWFD was observed between groups. More word finding errors occurred with confrontational naming than with discourse tasks for both groups, with latency as the primary error type.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Confrontational naming tasks may be more sensitive to subtle language difficulties occurring after MTBI. The study of adults with MTBI and their performance on semantically-based tasks offers important information for the advancement of therapeutic intervention and education.}, }
@article {pmid16809019, year = {2006}, author = {Newman, J and Aucompaugh, AG and Schell, LM and Denham, M and DeCaprio, AP and Gallo, MV and Ravenscroft, J and Kao, CC and Hanover, MR and David, D and Jacobs, AM and Tarbell, AM and Worswick, P and , }, title = {PCBs and cognitive functioning of Mohawk adolescents.}, journal = {Neurotoxicology and teratology}, volume = {28}, number = {4}, pages = {439-445}, doi = {10.1016/j.ntt.2006.03.001}, pmid = {16809019}, issn = {0892-0362}, support = {ES04913-10/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; ES10904-05/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Breast Feeding ; Child ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Environmental Exposure/*adverse effects/analysis ; Environmental Pollutants/*adverse effects/analysis ; Female ; Growth/drug effects ; Humans ; *Indians, North American ; Male ; Memory/drug effects ; Mothers ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Polychlorinated Biphenyls/*adverse effects/analysis ; Schools ; Sexual Maturation/drug effects ; }, abstract = {This paper reports on the relationships between the cognitive functioning and PCB current body burdens of adolescents in the Mohawk Nation of Akwesasne where there is concern about industrial pollution of the environment. Three cognitive tests (Woodcock Johnson-Revised, Test of Memory and Learning, and Ravens Progressive Matrices) provide 13 subtests that allow a variety of cognitive outcomes to be assessed. A summary measure of PCB level was created from the congeners detected in at least 50% of the participants. The most notable finding was the significant negative relationship between PCB levels and two separate measures of long term memory. There was also a negative relationship with a measure of comprehension and knowledge. Significant relationships were not large, but provide evidence of subtle negative effects of PCB exposure.}, }
@article {pmid16808048, year = {2000}, author = {Clements, C}, title = {British beef, Ontario water and dead crows.}, journal = {Transactions of the Royal Society of Canada = Memoires de la Societe royale du Canada}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {121-146}, pmid = {16808048}, issn = {0035-9122}, mesh = {Animals ; Canada/epidemiology ; Cattle ; Encephalopathy, Bovine Spongiform/history/prevention &amp; control/transmission ; Escherichia coli ; *Ethics/classification/history ; Food ; History, 20th Century ; *Public Health/ethics/history/standards/trends ; West Nile Fever/history/prevention &amp; control/transmission ; }, }
@article {pmid16806826, year = {2006}, author = {Fujiwara, T}, title = {Clinical spectrum of mutations in SCN1A gene: severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy and related epilepsies.}, journal = {Epilepsy research}, volume = {70 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {S223-30}, doi = {10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2006.01.019}, pmid = {16806826}, issn = {0920-1211}, mesh = {Age of Onset ; Epilepsies, Myoclonic/*genetics ; Epilepsy, Tonic-Clonic/*genetics ; Humans ; Infant ; Mutation ; NAV1.1 Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel ; Nerve Tissue Proteins/*genetics ; Phenotype ; Sodium Channels/*genetics ; Syndrome ; Twins, Monozygotic/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy (SMEI) manifests very frequent generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTC), accompanied by myoclonic seizures, absences and partial seizures [Dravet, C., 1978. Les épilepsie grave de l'enfant. Vie Méd. 8, 543-548; Dravet, C., Roger, J., Bureau, M., Dalla Bernardina, B., 1982. Myoclonic epilepsies in childhood. In: Akimoto, H., Kazamatsuri, H., Seino, M., Ward, A. (Eds.), Advances in Epileptology. Raven Press, New York, pp. 135-140; Dravet, C., Bureau, M., Oguni, H., Fukuyama, Y., Cokar, O., 2002. Severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy (Dravet syndrome). In: Roger, J., Bureau, M., Dravet, C., Genton, P., Tassinari, C.A., Wolf, P. (Eds.), Epileptic Syndromes in Infancy, Childhood and Adolescence, third ed. John Libbey, London, pp. 81-103]. However, there is a group of severe epilepsy that has many characteristics common to SMEI except for myoclonic seizures. We reported this group of epilepsy as intractable childhood epilepsy with GTC (ICEGTC) [Watanabe, M., Fujiwara, T., Yagi, K., Seino, M., Higashi, T., 1989b. Intractable childhood epilepsy with generalized tonic-clonic seizures. J. Jpn. Epil. Soc. 7, 96-105 (in Japanese); Fujiwara, T., Watanabe, M., Takahashi, Y., Higashi, T., Yagi, K., Seino, M., 1992. Long-term course of childhood epilepsy with intractable grand mal seizures. Jpn. J. Psychiatr. Neurol. 46, 297-302]. Recently, mutations of the neuronal voltage-gated sodium channel alphasubunit type 1 gene (SCN1A) have been found in SMEI [Claes, L., Del-Favero, J., Ceulemans, B., Lagae, L., Van Broeckhoven, C., De Jonghe, P., 2001, De novo mutations in the sodium-channel gene SCN1A cause severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy. Am. J. Hum. Genet. 68, 327-1332]. Mutations in SCN1A are found in both SMEI and ICEGTC at high rates of 70-81%. The loci of the mutations seen in ICEGTC are quite similar to those found in SMEI, suggesting a genotypic continuity between these entities. The clinical spectrum of epilepsies harboring SCN1A mutations may be consisted of various phenotypes with GEFS+ on the mildest end and SMEI on the severest end of the spectrum.}, }
@article {pmid16802144, year = {2007}, author = {Leaver, LA and Hopewell, L and Caldwell, C and Mallarky, L}, title = {Audience effects on food caching in grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis): evidence for pilferage avoidance strategies.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {23-27}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-006-0026-7}, pmid = {16802144}, issn = {1435-9448}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Birds/physiology ; *Competitive Behavior ; Decision Making ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; *Food ; Male ; Memory ; Sciuridae/*physiology ; }, abstract = {If food pilferage has been a reliable selection pressure on food caching animals, those animals should have evolved the ability to protect their caches from pilferers. Evidence that animals protect their caches would support the argument that pilferage has been an important adaptive challenge. We observed naturally caching Eastern grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) in order to determine whether they used any evasive tactics in order to deter conspecific and heterospecific pilferage. We found that grey squirrels used evasive tactics when they had a conspecific audience, but not when they had a heterospecific (corvid) audience. When other squirrels were present, grey squirrels spaced their caches farther apart and preferentially cached when oriented with their backs to other squirrels, but no such effect was found when birds were present. Our data provide the first evidence that caching mammals are sensitive to the risk of pilferage posed by an audience of conspecifics, and that they utilise evasive tactics that should help to minimise cache loss. We discuss our results in relation to recent theory of reciprocal pilferage and compare them to behaviours shown by caching birds.}, }
@article {pmid16797814, year = {2006}, author = {Peters, M and Reimers, S and Manning, JT}, title = {Hand preference for writing and associations with selected demographic and behavioral variables in 255,100 subjects: the BBC internet study.}, journal = {Brain and cognition}, volume = {62}, number = {2}, pages = {177-189}, doi = {10.1016/j.bandc.2006.04.005}, pmid = {16797814}, issn = {0278-2626}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Alcoholism/epidemiology/ethnology/psychology ; Asthma/epidemiology/ethnology/psychology ; Child ; China ; Cross-Cultural Comparison ; *Demography ; Discrimination Learning ; Dyslexia/epidemiology/ethnology/psychology ; Educational Status ; Ethnicity/*psychology/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; *Functional Laterality ; *Handwriting ; Health Surveys ; Humans ; Internet ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Orientation ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Problem Solving ; Sex Factors ; Sexual Behavior ; United Kingdom ; United States ; }, abstract = {In an Internet study unrelated to handedness, 134,317 female and 120,783 male participants answered a graded question as to which hand they preferred for writing. This allowed determination of hand preference patterns across 7 ethnic groups. Sex differences in left-handedness were found in 4 ethnic groups, favoring males, while no significant sex differences were found in three of the groups. Prevalence of left-handedness in the largest of the ethnic groups (self-labelled as "White") was comparable to contemporary hand preference data for this group [Gilbert, A. N., &amp; Wysocki, C. J. (1992). Hand preference and age in the United states. Neuropsychologia, 30, 601-608] but the prevalence of left-handedness in individuals >70 years of age was considerably higher in the present study. Individuals who indicated "either" hand for writing preference had significantly lower spatial performance (mental rotation task) and significantly higher prevalence of hyperactivity, dyslexia, asthma than individuals who had clear left or right hand preferences, in support of Crow et al. [Crow, T., Crow, L., Done, D., &amp; Leask, S. (1998). Relative hand skill predicts academic ability: global deficits at the point of hemispheric indecision. Neuropsychologia, 36, 1275-1282]. Similarly, an association of writing hand preference and non-heterosexual orientation was clearest for individuals with "either" writing hand responses. We conclude that contradictions in the literature as to whether or not these variables are linked to handedness stem largely from different definitions of hand preference. Due to a lack of statistical power in most studies in the literature, the "either" hand writing preference group that yielded the most salient results in this study is not normally available for analysis.}, }
@article {pmid16797110, year = {2006}, author = {Imai, M and Ninomiya, A and Minekawa, H and Notomi, T and Ishizaki, T and Tashiro, M and Odagiri, T}, title = {Development of H5-RT-LAMP (loop-mediated isothermal amplification) system for rapid diagnosis of H5 avian influenza virus infection.}, journal = {Vaccine}, volume = {24}, number = {44-46}, pages = {6679-6682}, doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2006.05.046}, pmid = {16797110}, issn = {0264-410X}, mesh = {Animals ; Chickens ; DNA Primers ; Humans ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Influenza in Birds/diagnosis/*virology ; Nucleic Acid Amplification Techniques/*methods ; Poultry ; RNA, Viral/analysis/isolation &amp; purification ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; }, abstract = {We developed a rapid and sensitive diagnosis system for H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus infection using an unique gene amplification method, reverse transcriptase loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP). The sensitivity of the system was found to be 100-fold higher than that of ordinary one-step RT-PCR. Moreover, by using viral RNAs extracted from influenza viruses of all 15 HA subtypes, the RT-LAMP system was confirmed to amplify only the RNA of H5 subtype virus. In the surveillance of H5N1 virus infection of wild birds, we detected two positive cases from dead crows found near the affected area with H5N1-HPAI by using RT-LAMP system, although one of two positive cases was missed by RT-PCR. These results suggested that our newly developed RT-LAMP system specific for H5 virus would be a beneficial diagnostic tool for surveillance of recent outbreaks caused by H5N1-HPAI viruses.}, }
@article {pmid16796516, year = {2006}, author = {Padgett, KA and Cahoon-Young, B and Carney, R and Woods, L and Read, D and Husted, S and Kramer, V}, title = {Field and laboratory evaluation of diagnostic assays for detecting West Nile virus in oropharyngeal swabs from California wild birds.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {183-191}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2006.6.183}, pmid = {16796516}, issn = {1530-3667}, support = {U50/CCU923677-02//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antigens, Viral/immunology ; Bird Diseases/*diagnosis/virology ; Birds ; False Negative Reactions ; False Positive Reactions ; Oropharynx/*virology ; Reproducibility of Results ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction/methods ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Species Specificity ; West Nile Fever/diagnosis/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Three diagnostic assays for detecting West Nile virus (WNV) in avian oral swabs were evaluated in California in 2004 and 2005: two commercial antigen-capture assays, VecTest and Rapid Analyte Measurement Platform (RAMP), and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) of oral swabs in a specialized viral transport medium (VTM). Results from this study demonstrated that VTM was excellent for transportation and maintenance of WNV in avian oral swab samples and allowed for detection by RT-PCR and subsequent confirmation by virus isolation. Oral swabs and kidney tissue in VTM tested by RT-PCR were found to have similar accuracy in detecting WNV in corvids. The two antigen-capture assays, VecTest and RAMP, provided few false positives for corvids, with over 95% specificity. When performed by multiple local agencies throughout the state, VecTest and RAMP were similarly sensitive for oral swabs of American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) (70% and 64%, respectively). Data from known WNV positive corvid oral swabs in VTM tested by antigen-capture assays at a diagnostic laboratory suggested that RAMP was more sensitive than VecTest. Due to high probability of false negatives, neither test is recommended for use on non-corvids. While WNV antigen-capture assays were effective screening tools for corvids, they were markedly less sensitive for Western Scrub Jays (Aphelocoma californica).}, }
@article {pmid16792644, year = {2006}, author = {Gold, MH and Bradshaw, VL and Boring, MM and Bridges, TM and Biron, JA}, title = {Split-face comparison of photodynamic therapy with 5-aminolevulinic acid and intense pulsed light versus intense pulsed light alone for photodamage.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {32}, number = {6}, pages = {795-801; discussion 801-3}, doi = {10.1111/j.1524-4725.2006.32163.x}, pmid = {16792644}, issn = {1076-0512}, mesh = {Adult ; Aminolevulinic Acid/*therapeutic use ; Facial Dermatoses/*drug therapy ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Photochemotherapy/*methods ; Photosensitivity Disorders/*drug therapy ; Photosensitizing Agents/*therapeutic use ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) with a 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) photosensitizing agent and a variety of lasers and light sources has been shown to enhance the treatment of photodamaged skin and its associated actinic keratoses (AKs). The efficacy of short-contact, full-face ALA by PDT in photorejuvenation has also been demonstrated.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To evaluate short-contact (30 to 60 min) ALA-PDT with intense pulsed light (IPL) activation by comparing ALA-PDT-IPL with IPL alone. METHODS Sixteen patients were enrolled in a split-face study. One side of each patient's face received ALA-PDT-IPL and the other side received IPL alone. Three treatments were given at 1-month intervals, and follow-up visits occurred at 1 and 3 months after the final treatment.<br><br>RESULTS: Thirteen patients completed the trial. Three months after the final treatment, improvement was greater in the ALA-PDT-IPL side than in IPL-alone side for all facets of photodamage-crow's feet appearance (55 vs 29.5%), tactile skin roughness (55 vs 29.5%), mottled hyperpigmentation (60.3 vs 37.2%), and telangectasias (84.6 vs 53.8%). The clearance rate of AK lesions was also higher (78 vs 53.6%).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Short-contact ALA-PDT-IPL brings about greater improvement in photodamaged skin and greater clearance of AK lesions than IPL alone, further confirming the usefulness of ALA-PDT in photorejuvenation.}, }
@article {pmid16784517, year = {2006}, author = {Coleman, KR and Carruthers, J}, title = {Combination therapy with BOTOX and fillers: the new rejuvnation paradigm.}, journal = {Dermatologic therapy}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {177-188}, doi = {10.1111/j.1529-8019.2006.00072.x}, pmid = {16784517}, issn = {1396-0296}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Collagen/*administration &amp; dosage ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; *Face ; Facial Muscles ; Humans ; Hyaluronic Acid/*administration &amp; dosage ; Injections ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; *Rejuvenation ; }, abstract = {Until relatively recently, restoration of appearance by replacement of lost facial volume and muscular relaxation has been an illusory goal. With advances in the commercial availability of newer filling agents and a better understanding of the clinical esthetic effects of botulinum toxin A, remarkably sophisticated and refined results can now be achieved by using these noninvasive techniques. The combined use of BTX-A and filling agents, such as collagen and hyaluronic acid, can restore facial appearance by the dual mechanisms of reflation and relaxation. In addition, their combined use appears to increase the longevity of tissue dwell time of the filling agent. Current practices now strive to correct wrinkles by restoring volume and also relaxing the pull of muscles that create negative facial expressions such as glabellar folds, mouth frown, crow's feet, horizontal forehead lines, and perioral and cervical rhytides. As with any of the new technological innovations currently available, understanding of the differing properties of the agents used and education in optimal technique is essential to clinical and esthetic success.}, }
@article {pmid16783076, year = {2006}, author = {Sirbiladze, TsV and Tatishvili, NA and Kipiani, TB and Shvangiradze, MSh and Kandareli, LG}, title = {[Assessment of psychomotor development in preschool and early preschool children, as a long term outcome of neonatal bacterial meningitis].}, journal = {Georgian medical news}, volume = {}, number = {134}, pages = {90-93}, pmid = {16783076}, issn = {1512-0112}, mesh = {Child ; *Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Meningitis, Bacterial/*complications ; Psychomotor Disorders/*diagnosis/*microbiology ; Sepsis/*complications ; }, abstract = {Disorder of the cognitive function and psychomotor retardation in the preschool and early preschool children is a result of neonatal bacterial meningitis in most cases. We have investigated 142 patients after neonatal bacterial meningitis and bacterial sepsis. We followed these children during 7 years (1998-2005). The whole contingency was divided into three groups: I group - bacterial meningitis (64 cases), II group - bacterial meningitis and sepsis (56 cases) and III (control) group - 22 patients with bacterial sepsis of different degrees. With the purpose of estimation of the psychomotor development, we have applied: Bayley screening test of infant developmental test (0 -2 y); Denver developmental screening test, and Denver-2 (0-6 y); Raven progressive matrices (5-11 y); Wechsler Intelligence scale for children (6-15 y). We have determined that the results of neonatal bacterial meningitis are predictors of severe long-term outcome of the disease. Analysis of the obtained data enables us to conclude that outcome of neonatal bacterial meningitis and sepsis in combination with bacterial meningitis is more severe than of bacterial sepsis.}, }
@article {pmid16777748, year = {2006}, author = {Baglione, V and Canestrari, D and Marcos, JM and Ekman, J}, title = {Experimentally increased food resources in the natal territory promote offspring philopatry and helping in cooperatively breeding carrion crows.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {273}, number = {1593}, pages = {1529-1535}, pmid = {16777748}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animal Migration ; Animals ; *Breeding ; *Cooperative Behavior ; Crows/*physiology ; *Ecosystem ; Food ; *Homing Behavior ; Nesting Behavior ; Sexual Behavior, Animal ; Spatial Behavior ; }, abstract = {Kin-based societies, where families represent the basic social unit, occur in a relatively small number of vertebrate species. In the majority of avian kin societies, families form when offspring prolong their association with the parents on the natal territory. Therefore, the key to understanding the evolution of families in birds is to understand natal philopatry (i.e. the tendency to remain on the natal territory). It has been shown that, within populations, the strength of the association between parents and offspring (i.e. family stability) increases when offspring dispersal is constrained by external environmental factors, but it is unclear whether and how family wealth influences juvenile dispersal decisions. Here, we show that young carrion crows (Corvus corone corone) from territories that were food-supplemented year-round were more philopatric and more likely to help at their family's nest than the unfed ones. The results suggest that offspring philopatry and helping behaviour are influenced by the quality of 'home' and that the availability of food resources positively affects the cohesion of the family.}, }
@article {pmid16777321, year = {2006}, author = {White, JC and Ross, DW and Gent, MP and Eitzer, BD and Mattina, MI}, title = {Effect of mycorrhizal fungi on the phytoextraction of weathered p,p-DDE by Cucurbita pepo.}, journal = {Journal of hazardous materials}, volume = {137}, number = {3}, pages = {1750-1757}, doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2006.05.012}, pmid = {16777321}, issn = {0304-3894}, mesh = {Biodegradation, Environmental ; Biomass ; Cucurbita/chemistry/*metabolism/*microbiology ; Dichlorodiphenyl Dichloroethylene/analysis/chemistry/*metabolism ; Mycorrhizae/*physiology ; Plant Roots/chemistry/metabolism/microbiology ; Soil/*analysis ; }, abstract = {Field experiments were conducted to assess the impact of inoculation with mycorrhizal fungi on the accumulation of weathered p,p'-DDE from soil by three cultivars of zucchini (Cucurbita pepo spp. pepo cv Costata Romanesco, Goldrush, Raven). Three commercially available mycorrhizal products (BioVam, Myco-Vam, INVAM) were inoculated into the root system of the zucchini seedlings at planting. In agreement with our previous findings, plants not inoculated with fungi accumulated large but variable amounts of contaminant, with root bioconcentration factors (BCFs, ratio of p,p'-DDE, on a dry weight basis, in the root to that in the soil) ranging from 10 to 48 and stem BCFs ranging from 5.5 to 11. The total amount of contaminant phytoextracted during the 62 day growing season ranged from 0.72-2.9%. The effect of fungal inoculation on the release of weathered p,p'-DDE from soil and on the subsequent uptake of the parent compound by zucchini appeared to vary at the cultivar level. For Goldrush, fungal inoculation generally decreased tissue BCFs but because of slightly larger biomass, did not significantly impact the percent contaminant phytoextracted. Alternatively, for Costata, BioVam and Myco-Vam generally enhanced p,p'-DDE accumulation from soil, and increased the amount of contaminant phytoextracted by up to 34%. For Raven, BioVam reduced contaminant uptake whereas Myco-Vam and INVAM increased contaminant phytoextraction by 53 and 60%, respectively. The data show that fungal inoculation may significantly increase the remedial potential of C. pepo ssp. pepo. The apparent cultivar specific response to mycorrhizal inoculation is unexpected and the subject of ongoing investigation.}, }
@article {pmid16752555, year = {2006}, author = {Luan, S and Wang, C and Chen, DZ and Hu, XS and Naqvi, SA and Wu, X and Yu, CX}, title = {An improved MLC segmentation algorithm and software for step-and-shoot IMRT delivery without tongue-and-groove error.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {33}, number = {5}, pages = {1199-1212}, doi = {10.1118/1.2188823}, pmid = {16752555}, issn = {0094-2405}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; *Artifacts ; Dose Fractionation, Radiation ; Quality Control ; Radiation Dosage ; Radiometry/*methods ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; }, abstract = {We present an improved multileaf collimator (MLC) segmentation algorithm, denoted by SLS(NOTG) (static leaf sequencing with no tongue-and-groove error), for step-and-shoot intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) delivery. SLS(NOTG) is an improvement over the MLC segmentation algorithm called SLS that was developed by Luan et al. [Med. Phys. 31(4), 695-707 (2004)], which did not consider tongue-and-groove error corrections. The aims of SLS(NOTG) are (1) shortening the treatment times of IMRT plans by minimizing their numbers of segments and (2) minimizing the tongue-and-groove errors of the computed IMRT plans. The input to SLS(NOTG) is intensity maps (IMs) produced by current planning systems, and its output is (modified) optimized leaf sequences without tongue-and-groove error. Like the previous SLS algorithm [Luan et al., Med. Phys. 31(4), 695-707 (2004)], SLS(NOTG) is also based on graph algorithmic techniques in computer science. It models the MLC segmentation problem as a weighted minimum-cost path problem, where the weight of the path is the number of segments and the cost of the path is the amount of tongue-and-groove error. Our comparisons of SLS(NOTG) with CORVUS indicated that for the same intensity maps, the numbers of segments computed by SLS(NOTG) are up to 50% less than those by CORVUS 5.0 on the Elekta LINAC system. Our clinical verifications have shown that the dose distributions of the SLS(NOTG) plans do not have tongue-and-groove error and match those of the corresponding CORVUS plans, thus confirming the correctness of SLS(NOTG). Comparing with existing segmentation methods, SLS(NOTG) also has two additional advantages: (1) SLS(NOTG) can compute leaf sequences whose tongue-and-groove error is minimized subject to a constraint on the maximum allowed number of segments, which may be desirable in clinical situations where a treatment with the complete correction of tongue-and-groove error takes too much time, and (2) SLS(NOTG) can be used to minimize a more general type of error called the tongue-or-groove error.}, }
@article {pmid16751074, year = {2006}, author = {Sheng, K and Molloy, JA and Read, PW}, title = {Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) dosimetry of the head and neck: a comparison of treatment plans using linear accelerator-based IMRT and helical tomotherapy.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {65}, number = {3}, pages = {917-923}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijrobp.2006.02.038}, pmid = {16751074}, issn = {0360-3016}, mesh = {Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/*radiotherapy ; Humans ; Oropharyngeal Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Particle Accelerators ; Radiation Injuries/prevention &amp; control ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated/*methods ; Tomography, Spiral Computed/methods ; Tonsillar Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To date, most intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) delivery has occurred using linear accelerators (linacs), although helical tomotherapy has become commercially available. To quantify the dosimetric difference, we compared linac-based and helical tomotherapy-based treatment plans for IMRT of the oropharynx.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: We compared the dosimetry findings of 10 patients who had oropharyngeal carcinoma. Five patients each had cancers in the base of the tongue and tonsil. Each plan was independently optimized using either the CORVUS planning system (Nomos Corporation, Sewickly, PA), commissioned for a Varian 2300 CD linear accelerator (Varian Medical Systems, Palo Alto, CA) with 1-cm multileaf collimator leaves, or helical tomotherapy. The resulting treatment plans were evaluated by comparing the dose-volume histograms, equivalent uniform dose (EUD), dose uniformity, and normal tissue complication probabilities.<br><br>RESULTS: Helical tomotherapy plans showed improvement of critical structure avoidance and target dose uniformity for all patients. The average equivalent uniform dose reduction for organs at risk (OARs) surrounding the base of tongue and the tonsil were 17.4% and 27.14% respectively. An 80% reduction in normal tissue complication probabilities for the parotid glands was observed in the tomotherapy plans relative to the linac-based plans. The standard deviation of the planning target volume dose was reduced by 71%. In our clinic, we use the combined dose-volume histograms for each class of plans as a reference goal for helical tomotherapy treatment planning optimization.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Helical tomotherapy provides improved dose homogeneity and normal structure dose compared with linac-based IMRT in the treatment of oropharyngeal carcinoma resulting in a reduced risk for complications from focal hotspots within the planning target volume and for the adjacent parotid glands.}, }
@article {pmid16717442, year = {2006}, author = {Iwaniuk, AN and Hurd, PL and Wylie, DR}, title = {Comparative morphology of the avian cerebellum: I. Degree of foliation.}, journal = {Brain, behavior and evolution}, volume = {68}, number = {1}, pages = {45-62}, doi = {10.1159/000093530}, pmid = {16717442}, issn = {0006-8977}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Biometry ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Cerebellum/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Models, Biological ; Organ Size ; *Phylogeny ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Despite the conservative circuitry of the cerebellum, there is considerable variation in the shape of the cerebellum among vertebrates. One aspect of cerebellar morphology that is of particular interest is the degree of folding, or foliation, of the cerebellum and its functional significance. Here, we present the first comprehensive analysis of variation in cerebellar foliation in birds with the aim of determining the effects that allometry, phylogeny and development have on species differences in the degree of cerebellar foliation. Using both conventional and phylogenetically based statistics, we assess the effects of these variables on cerebellar foliation among 91 species of birds. Overall, our results indicate that allometry exerts the strongest effect and accounts for more than half of the interspecific variation in cerebellar foliation. In addition, we detected a significant phylogenetic effect. A comparison among orders revealed that several groups, corvids, parrots and seabirds, have significantly more foliated cerebella than other groups, after accounting for allometric effects. Lastly, developmental mode was weakly correlated with relative cerebellar foliation, but incubation period and fledging age were not. From our analyses, we conclude that allometric and phylogenetic effects exert the strongest effects and developmental mode a weak effect on avian cerebellar foliation. The phylogenetic distribution of highly foliated cerebella also suggests that cognitive and/or behavioral differences play a role in the evolution of the cerebellum.}, }
@article {pmid16717218, year = {2006}, author = {Pillon, B and Ardouin, C and Dujardin, K and Vittini, P and Pelissolo, A and Cottencin, O and Vercueil, L and Houeto, JL and Krystkowiak, P and Agid, Y and Destée, A and Pollak, P and Vidailhet, M and , }, title = {Preservation of cognitive function in dystonia treated by pallidal stimulation.}, journal = {Neurology}, volume = {66}, number = {10}, pages = {1556-1558}, doi = {10.1212/01.wnl.0000216131.41563.24}, pmid = {16717218}, issn = {1526-632X}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Affect ; Basal Ganglia/physiopathology ; Cholinergic Antagonists/therapeutic use ; *Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/etiology/prevention &amp; control ; Combined Modality Therapy ; *Deep Brain Stimulation ; Dystonic Disorders/drug therapy/psychology/*therapy ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/physiopathology ; *Globus Pallidus ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Processes ; Middle Aged ; Mood Disorders/etiology/prevention &amp; control ; Motor Activity ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Prospective Studies ; Risk Assessment ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To assess the effects of bilateral pallidal deep brain stimulation (DBS) on mood and cognitive performance in patients with dystonia before surgery (at baseline, while patients received their usual treatment) and 12 months postoperatively (while patients received neurostimulation and their medications) in a multicenter prospective study.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty-two patients with primary generalized dystonia were evaluated with tests focused on executive functions. The authors considered the patients' severe disability and selected the following tests: Raven Progressive Matrices 38, Similarities and Arithmetic subtests of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-R, Grober and Buschke, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), verbal fluency, Trail Making Test, and the Beck Depression Inventory. Median age at surgery was 30 years (range = 14 to 54 years), median duration of disease was 18.5 years (range = 4 to 37 years).<br><br>RESULTS: Before surgery, no patients showed cognitive decline or depression. The surgical procedure appeared to be benign cognitively. One year after surgery, free recall improved. There was a significant reduction in the number of errors in the WCST. No behavioral or mood changes were found.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Bilateral pallidal stimulation has a good benefit-to-risk ratio as it did not negatively affect cognitive performance and mood in primary dystonia, while a significant motor improvement was obtained. Moreover, a significant mild improvement in executive functions was observed, which may have been related either to the surgical treatment or to the marked decrease in anticholinergic drugs.}, }
@article {pmid16711842, year = {2006}, author = {Saakian, DB and Muñoz, E and Hu, CK and Deem, MW}, title = {Quasispecies theory for multiple-peak fitness landscapes.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {73}, number = {4 Pt 1}, pages = {041913}, pmid = {16711842}, issn = {1539-3755}, support = {R21 AI059224/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; 1R90 DK 071504-01/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Computer Simulation ; *Ecosystem ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Genetic Variation/genetics ; *Genetics, Population ; Genotype ; *Models, Genetic ; Mutation ; *Selection, Genetic ; Species Specificity ; *Survival Analysis ; Survival Rate ; }, abstract = {We use a path integral representation to solve the Eigen and Crow-Kimura molecular evolution models for the case of multiple fitness peaks with arbitrary fitness and degradation functions. In the general case, we find that the solution to these molecular evolution models can be written as the optimum of a fitness function, with constraints enforced by Lagrange multipliers and with a term accounting for the entropy of the spreading population in sequence space. The results for the Eigen model are applied to consider virus or cancer proliferation under the control of drugs or the immune system.}, }
@article {pmid16709747, year = {2006}, author = {Dally, JM and Emery, NJ and Clayton, NS}, title = {Food-caching western scrub-jays keep track of who was watching when.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {312}, number = {5780}, pages = {1662-1665}, doi = {10.1126/science.1126539}, pmid = {16709747}, issn = {1095-9203}, support = {BB/D000335/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Cues ; Female ; *Food ; Male ; *Memory ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) hide food caches for future consumption, steal others' caches, and engage in tactics to minimize the chance that their own caches will be stolen. We show that scrub-jays remember which individual watched them during particular caching events and alter their recaching behavior accordingly. We found no evidence to suggest that a storer's use of cache protection tactics is cued by the observer's behavior.}, }
@article {pmid16705675, year = {2006}, author = {Herrero, L and Yu, M and Walker, F and Armstrong, DM and Apps, R}, title = {Olivo-cortico-nuclear localizations within crus I of the cerebellum.}, journal = {The Journal of comparative neurology}, volume = {497}, number = {2}, pages = {287-308}, doi = {10.1002/cne.20976}, pmid = {16705675}, issn = {0021-9967}, support = {059814//Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Brain Mapping ; Cats ; Cell Count/methods ; Cerebellar Cortex/*anatomy &amp; histology/drug effects/metabolism ; Cerebellar Nuclei/*anatomy &amp; histology/metabolism ; Fluorescent Dyes/pharmacology ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/methods ; Models, Anatomic ; Neural Pathways/*anatomy &amp; histology/metabolism ; Olivary Nucleus/*anatomy &amp; histology/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Retrograde and anterograde tracers were microinjected into the folia of crus I of the cat cerebellum to investigate spatial localization in olivo-cerebellar and cortico-nuclear projections. The folia were shown to be mainly occupied in rostrocaudal succession by three zones receiving their olivo-cerebellar climbing fiber afferents from parts of, respectively, the dorsal lamella of the principal olive, the ventral lamella of the principal olive, and the rostral half of the medial accessory olive. These zones are presumably parts of the D(2), D(1), and C(2) cerebellar cortical zones, as earlier proposed by Rosina and Provini ([1982] Neuroscience 7:2657-2676). Their respective nuclear target territories were found to be in the rostroventral quadrant of nucleus lateralis, the caudoventral quadrant of nucleus lateralis, and the ventral half of nucleus interpositus posterior. The medial-to-lateral width of each zone was shown to be innervated by different groups of olive cells and to project respectively to medial and lateral parts of the nuclear territory for that zone, consistent with the existence in crus I of olivo-cortico-nuclear microcomplexes (cf. Ito [1984] New York: Raven Press). Parts of the length of each zone located within different folia were also shown to relate to different groups of olive cells and to different regions of the zone's overall nuclear territory. Interfolial localizations, which were heavily overlapping in nature, intersected orthogonally with those for zone width. The fine-grain topography implies that individual microzones exist within each of the zones present within crus I. The results also have implications for the possibility that lateral cerebellar pathways are involved in cognition.}, }
@article {pmid16704786, year = {2006}, author = {Molaei, G and Andreadis, TG and Armstrong, PM and Anderson, JF and Vossbrinck, CR}, title = {Host feeding patterns of Culex mosquitoes and West Nile virus transmission, northeastern United States.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, pages = {468-474}, pmid = {16704786}, issn = {1080-6040}, support = {U50/CCU6806-01-1//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/blood ; Connecticut/epidemiology ; Culex/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Insect Vectors/physiology ; Mammals/blood ; Time Factors ; West Nile Fever/*transmission ; }, abstract = {To evaluate the role of Culex mosquitoes as enzootic and epidemic vectors for WNV, we identified the source of vertebrate blood by polymerase chain reaction amplification and sequencing portions of the cytochrome b gene of mitochondrial DNA. All Cx. restuans and 93% of Cx. pipiens acquired blood from avian hosts; Cx. salinarius fed frequently on both mammals (53%) and birds (36%). Mixed-blood meals were detected in 11% and 4% of Cx. salinarius and Cx. pipiens, respectively. American robin was the most common source of vertebrate blood for Cx. pipiens (38%) and Cx. restuans (37%). American crow represented <1% of the blood meals in Cx. pipiens and none in Cx. restuans. Human-derived blood meals were identified from 2 Cx. salinarius and 1 Cx. pipiens. Results suggest that Cx. salinarius is an important bridge vector to humans, while Cx. pipiens and Cx. restuans are more efficient enzootic vectors in the northeastern United States.}, }
@article {pmid16700058, year = {2006}, author = {Crow, J}, title = {Interview with professor James Crow.}, journal = {BioEssays : news and reviews in molecular, cellular and developmental biology}, volume = {28}, number = {6}, pages = {660-678}, doi = {10.1002/bies.20426}, pmid = {16700058}, issn = {0265-9247}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Genetics/*history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; }, }
@article {pmid16699152, year = {2006}, author = {Ward, MR and Stallknecht, DE and Willis, J and Conroy, MJ and Davidson, WR}, title = {Wild bird mortality and West Nile virus surveillance: biases associated with detection, reporting, and carcass persistence.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {42}, number = {1}, pages = {92-106}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-42.1.92}, pmid = {16699152}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/virology ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*mortality ; Birds ; Crows ; Disease Reservoirs/*veterinary ; Georgia/epidemiology ; Seasons ; Sentinel Surveillance/veterinary ; Sparrows ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/mortality/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Surveillance targeting dead wild birds, in particular American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos), plays a critical role in West Nile virus (WNV) surveillance in the United States. Using crow decoy surrogates, detection and reporting of crow carcasses within urban and rural environments of DeKalb County, Georgia were assessed for potential biases that might occur in the county's WNV surveillance program. In each of two replicated trials, during July and September 2003, 400 decoys were labeled with reporting instructions and distributed along randomly chosen routes throughout designated urban and rural areas within DeKalb County. Information-theoretic methods were used to compare alternative models incorporating the effects of area and trial on probabilities of detection and reporting. The model with the best empirical support included the effects of area on both detection and reporting of decoys. The proportion of decoys detected in the urban area (0.605, SE=0.024) was approximately twice that of the rural area (0.293, SE=0.023), and the proportion of decoys reported in the urban area (0.273, SE=0.023) was approximately three times that of the rural area (0.103, SE=0.028). These results suggest that human density and associated factors can substantially influence dead crow detection and reporting and, thus, the perceived distribution of WNV. In a second and separate study, the persistence and fate of American crow and house sparrow (Passer domesticus) carcasses were assessed in urban and rural environments in Athens-Clarke, Madison, and Oconee counties, Georgia. Two replicated trials using 96 carcasses of each species were conducted during July and September 2004. For a portion of the carcasses, motion sensitive cameras were used to monitor scavenging species visits. Most carcasses (82%) disappeared or were decayed by the end of the 6-day study. Carcass persistence averaged 1.6 days in rural areas and 2.1 days in urban areas. We analyzed carcass persistence rates using a known-fate model framework in program MARK. Model selection based on Akaike's Information Criteria (AIC) indicated that the best model explaining carcass persistence rates included species and number of days of exposure; however, the model including area and number of days of exposure received approximately equal support. Model-averaged carcass persistence rates were higher for urban areas and for crow carcasses. Six mammalian and one avian species were documented scavenging upon carcasses. Dead wild birds could represent potential sources of oral WNV exposure to these scavenging species. Species composition of the scavenger assemblage was similar in urban and rural areas but "scavenging pressure" was greater in rural areas.}, }
@article {pmid16697127, year = {2006}, author = {Jensen, AN and Dalsgaard, A and Baggesen, DL and Nielsen, EM}, title = {The occurrence and characterization of Campylobacter jejuni and C. coli in organic pigs and their outdoor environment.}, journal = {Veterinary microbiology}, volume = {116}, number = {1-3}, pages = {96-105}, doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2006.03.006}, pmid = {16697127}, issn = {0378-1135}, mesh = {Animal Husbandry ; Animals ; Campylobacter Infections/*veterinary ; Campylobacter coli/classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; Campylobacter jejuni/classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; Feces/microbiology ; Soil Microbiology ; Swine ; Swine Diseases/*microbiology ; Water Microbiology ; }, abstract = {The occurrence and species distribution of thermophilic Campylobacter was investigated in organic outdoor pigs. An increased exposure of outdoor pigs to C. jejuni from the environment may cause a shift from a normal dominance of C. coli to more C. jejuni, which may imply a concern of reduced food safety. Bacteriological methods for determination of Campylobacter excretion level were combined with colony-blot hybridization and real-time PCR for specific detection of C. jejuni in pigs. Campylobacter was isolated from pigs (n=47), paddock environment (n=126) and wildlife (n=44), identified to species by real-time PCR and sub-typed by serotyping (Penner) and pulse-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) genotyping. All pigs excreted Campylobacter (10(3)-10(7) CFU g(-1) faeces) from the age of 8-13-weeks old. C. jejuni was found in 29% of pigs in three consecutive trials and always in minority to C. coli (0.3-46%). C. jejuni and C. coli were isolated from 10% and 29% of the environmental samples, respectively, while crow-birds and rats harboured C. jejuni. Individual pigs hosted several strains (up to nine serotypes). The paddock environment was contaminated with C. coli serotypes similar to pig isolates, while most of the C. jejuni serotypes differed. C. jejuni isolates of different origin comprised few similar serotypes, just one identical genotype was common between pigs, environment and birds. In conclusion, the occurrence of C. jejuni varied considerably between the three groups of outdoor pigs. Furthermore, transfer of C. jejuni to the outdoor pigs from the nearby environment was not predominant according to the subtype dissimilarities of the obtained isolates.}, }
@article {pmid16696741, year = {2006}, author = {Price, JF and McDowell, S and Whiteman, MC and Deary, IJ and Stewart, MC and Fowkes, FG}, title = {Ankle brachial index as a predictor of cognitive impairment in the general population: ten-year follow-up of the Edinburgh Artery Study.}, journal = {Journal of the American Geriatrics Society}, volume = {54}, number = {5}, pages = {763-769}, doi = {10.1111/j.1532-5415.2006.00702.x}, pmid = {16696741}, issn = {0002-8614}, mesh = {Aged ; Ankle/*blood supply ; Blood Pressure/*physiology ; Brachial Artery/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/etiology/*physiopathology ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Peripheral Vascular Diseases/epidemiology/*physiopathology ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Risk Assessment ; Scotland ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To determine whether the ankle brachial index (ABI, a marker of generalized atherosclerosis) is associated with cognitive impairment after 10 years in older people.<br><br>DESIGN: Cohort study (Edinburgh Artery Study).<br><br>SETTING: Eleven general practices in Edinburgh, Scotland.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: Seven hundred seventeen men and women aged 55 to 74 from the general population, followed for 10 years.<br><br>MEASUREMENTS: ABI measured at baseline and major cognitive functions (including premorbid function using the National Adult Reading Test, NART) tested after 10 years.<br><br>RESULTS: After adjustment for age and sex, a low ABI was associated with lower scoring (bottom tertile vs top tertile) on Raven's Matrices (odds ratio (OR)=1.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) =1.0-2.6), Verbal Fluency (OR =1.8, 95% CI =1.1-3.0), and Digit Symbol Test (OR =2.3, 95% CI =1.3-4.2), suggesting that the ABI is predictive of poorer performance in nonverbal reasoning, verbal fluency, and information processing speed. The association between ABI and the Digit Symbol Test remained significant after further adjustment for premorbid cognitive function (tested using the NART), suggesting that the ABI is also predictive of decline in information processing speed (from premorbid ability to that measured here in older age).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The ABI may be useful in identifying older individuals at higher risk of cognitive impairment. In the future, preventive measures developed to target individuals with a low ABI should consider measures to reduce vascular-related cognitive decline as well as cardiovascular events, in an effort to reduce the incidence and consequences of subsequent cognitive impairment and dementia.}, }
@article {pmid16690696, year = {2007}, author = {Contarino, MF and Daniele, A and Sibilia, AH and Romito, LM and Bentivoglio, AR and Gainotti, G and Albanese, A}, title = {Cognitive outcome 5 years after bilateral chronic stimulation of subthalamic nucleus in patients with Parkinson's disease.}, journal = {Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry}, volume = {78}, number = {3}, pages = {248-252}, pmid = {16690696}, issn = {1468-330X}, mesh = {Aged ; Bipolar Disorder/etiology ; *Cognition Disorders ; *Deep Brain Stimulation/adverse effects ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Status Schedule ; Middle Aged ; Mood Disorders/etiology ; Parkinson Disease/*therapy ; Patient Selection ; Subthalamic Nucleus/*physiology ; }, abstract = {AIM: To assess the long-term cognitive and behavioural outcome after bilateral deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) in patients affected by Parkinson's disease, with a 5-year follow-up after surgery.<br><br>METHODS: 11 patients with Parkinson's disease treated by bilateral DBS of STN underwent cognitive and behavioural assessments before implantation, and 1 and 5 years after surgery. Postoperative cognitive assessments were carried out with stimulators turned on.<br><br>RESULTS: A year after surgery, there was a marginally significant decline on a letter verbal fluency task (p = 0.045) and a significant improvement on Mini-Mental State Examination (p = 0.009). 5 years after surgery, a significant decline was observed on a letter verbal fluency task (p = 0.007) and an abstract reasoning task (p = 0.009), namely Raven's Progressive Matrices 1947. No significant postoperative change was observed on other cognitive variables. No patient developed dementia 5 years after surgery. A few days after the implantation, two patients developed transient manic symptoms with hypersexuality and one patient developed persistent apathy.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The decline of verbal fluency observed 5 years after implantation for DBS in STN did not have a clinically meaningful effect on daily living activities in our patients with Parkinson's disease. As no patient developed global cognitive deterioration in our sample, these findings suggest that DBS of STN is associated with a low cognitive and behavioural morbidity over a 5-year follow-up, when selection criteria for neurosurgery are strict.}, }
@article {pmid16687181, year = {2006}, author = {Hotte, M and Thuault, S and Lachaise, F and Dineley, KT and Hemmings, HC and Nairn, AC and Jay, TM}, title = {D1 receptor modulation of memory retrieval performance is associated with changes in pCREB and pDARPP-32 in rat prefrontal cortex.}, journal = {Behavioural brain research}, volume = {171}, number = {1}, pages = {127-133}, doi = {10.1016/j.bbr.2006.03.026}, pmid = {16687181}, issn = {0166-4328}, support = {P01 DA010044/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 GM 58055/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; DA 10044/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cyclic AMP Response Element-Binding Protein/*metabolism ; Dopamine and cAMP-Regulated Phosphoprotein 32/*metabolism ; Hippocampus/metabolism ; Male ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; Nucleus Accumbens/metabolism ; Phosphorylation ; Prefrontal Cortex/*metabolism ; Rats ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; Receptors, Dopamine D1/*metabolism ; Recognition, Psychology/physiology ; Signal Transduction/physiology ; }, abstract = {We have recently shown a significant role of dopamine D(1) receptors in recognition and temporal order memory retrieval for objects in rodents [Hotte M, Naudon L, Jay TM. Modulation of recognition and temporal order memory retrieval by dopamine D(1) receptor in rats. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2005;84:85-92]. The present study investigates the signal transduction pathways underlying dopamine D(1) receptor modulation of retrieval performance in these memory tasks at different delays. We analyzed the level of phosphorylation of both CREB (cAMP response element binding protein) and DARPP-32 (dopamine and cAMP-regulated phosphoprotein, 32 kDa) in (1) the prefrontal cortex of rats that had performed the object recognition task, (2) the prefrontal and perirhinal cortices of rats that had performed the temporal order memory task for objects. For comparison, we explored the phosphorylation state of CREB and DARPP-32 in the prefrontal cortex, nucleus accumbens and hippocampus of rats having performed badly on the delayed spatial win-shift task after D(1) blockade. The improvement in recognition and temporal order memory performance at a 4h-delay was associated with an increased phosphorylation of both CREB and DARPP-32 in the prefrontal cortex of rats treated with the D(1) agonist SKF 81297. By contrast, the significant impairment of delayed spatial memory retrieval after administration of the selective D(1) antagonist SCH 23390 was associated with decreased phosphorylation of CREB and DARPP-32 in the prefrontal cortex. These results provide insight into molecular mechanisms involved in D(1) receptor-dependent modulation of short- versus long-term memory in prefrontal cortex where DARPP-32 in synergy with CREB may represent a pivotal role.}, }
@article {pmid16682797, year = {2006}, author = {Castelli, L and Perozzo, P and Zibetti, M and Crivelli, B and Morabito, U and Lanotte, M and Cossa, F and Bergamasco, B and Lopiano, L}, title = {Chronic deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus for Parkinson's disease: effects on cognition, mood, anxiety and personality traits.}, journal = {European neurology}, volume = {55}, number = {3}, pages = {136-144}, doi = {10.1159/000093213}, pmid = {16682797}, issn = {0014-3022}, mesh = {Affect/*physiology/radiation effects ; Aged ; Anxiety/etiology/*surgery ; Cognition/*physiology/radiation effects ; Deep Brain Stimulation/*methods ; Female ; Functional Laterality/physiology ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Parkinson Disease/complications/pathology/*surgery ; *Personality/radiation effects ; Subthalamic Nucleus/*surgery ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate modifications occurring in cognitive functions and behavioural aspects in a group of 72 consecutive patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) 15 months after bilateral deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN).<br><br>METHODS: 72 consecutive PD patients bilaterally implanted for DBS of the STN were evaluated before and after surgery with a mean follow-up of 15 months. A neuropsychological assessment was performed to evaluate reasoning (Raven Colour Matrices), memory (Bisyllabic Word Repetition Test, Corsi's Block-Tapping Test, Paired-Associate Learning) and frontal executive functions (Trail Making Test Part B, Nelson Modified Card Sorting Test, phonemic and category verbal fluency tasks). Mood and suicidal ideation were evaluated using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Anxiety was measured by means of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and personality traits were evaluated with the Structured Clinical Interview for the DSM-III-R Axis II Disorders (SCID-II). Assessment of thought disorders and apathy was based on subitems of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale.<br><br>RESULTS: The comparisons between pre- and postoperative neuropsychological test scores showed a significant worsening only in phonemic and semantic verbal fluency tasks, while fewer errors were found in the Nelson Modified Card Sorting Test. Globally, behavioural assessment evidenced a small improvement in mood, as assessed by the BDI, in obsessive-compulsive and paranoid personality traits (SCID-II). Thought disorders worsened while suicidal ideation, anxiety and apathy showed no postoperative modifications. The analysis of individual outcomes (+/-1 SD criterion) evidenced a relevant postoperative cognitive decline in 3 patients out of 65 (4.5%). Moreover, following implantation, 1 patients exhibited psychosis (1.5%), 2 patients experienced a clinically relevant worsening of depressive symptoms (3%), 7 patients showed an increase in anxiety (12%) and 3 patients a worsening in depression and anxiety symptoms (3%). On the contrary, 12 patients (20%) showed a relevant improvement in mood and 14 patients (23%) a relevant reduction of anxiety symptoms after the surgery.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The present study confirms that STN DBS is cognitively safe since the only relevant change observed was a mild decrease in verbal fluency tasks. Globally, a small postoperative improvement was found in the BDI, and in two SCID-II subscales concerning obsessive-compulsive and paranoid personality traits, even though postoperative behavioural disturbances can occur in individual patients.}, }
@article {pmid16682154, year = {2006}, author = {Stöwe, M and Bugnyar, T and Loretto, MC and Schloegl, C and Range, F and Kotrschal, K}, title = {Novel object exploration in ravens (Corvus corax): effects of social relationships.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {73}, number = {1}, pages = {68-75}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2006.03.015}, pmid = {16682154}, issn = {0376-6357}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; *Crows ; Exploratory Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; *Social Behavior ; Social Environment ; }, abstract = {Social context has been shown to encourage, or to delay object exploration and learning. This ambiguity might be due to factors such as social relationships and personality of the individuals involved. Here, we investigated in ravens (Corvus corax) individuals' consistency in response to novel objects over development and across contexts: alone versus social. In the social setting we focussed on the effects of social relationships on social facilitation during the approach to novel objects. We tested 11 hand-raised ravens with novel objects individually at three and six months of age and in dyadic combinations at six months of age. Individuals were consistent over development and contexts in their response to different novel objects. Birds joined siblings faster to approach novel objects than non-siblings. They also spent more time sitting close to siblings than to non-siblings. In male-male dyads but not in female-female dyads, subordinates approached the novel objects significantly faster than dominant birds. In contrast, dominant males were the first to approach the novel objects in mixed-sex combinations. Hence, the effect of social context seems to depend on the social relationships towards the companions and on the combination of the sexes.}, }
@article {pmid16675158, year = {2006}, author = {Range, F and Bugnyar, T and Schlögl, C and Kotrschal, K}, title = {Individual and sex differences in learning abilities of ravens.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {73}, number = {1}, pages = {100-106}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2006.04.002}, pmid = {16675158}, issn = {0376-6357}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; *Crows ; Discrimination Learning/*physiology ; Exploratory Behavior/physiology ; Female ; *Individuality ; Male ; Sex Factors ; Spatial Behavior ; }, abstract = {Behavioral and physiological characteristics of individuals within the same species have been found to be stable across time and contexts. In this study, we investigated individual differences in learning abilities and object and social manipulation to test for consistency within individuals across different tasks. Individual ravens (Corvus corax) were tested in simple color and position discrimination tasks to establish their learning abilities. We found that males were significantly better in the acquisition of the first discrimination task and the object manipulation task, but not in any of the other tasks. Furthermore, faster learners engaged less often in manipulations of conspecifics and exploration of objects to get access to food. No relationship between object and social manipulation and reversal training were found. Our results suggest that individual differences in regard to the acquisition of new tasks may be related to personalities or at least object manipulation in ravens.}, }
@article {pmid16675037, year = {2006}, author = {Patick, AK}, title = {Rhinovirus chemotherapy.}, journal = {Antiviral research}, volume = {71}, number = {2-3}, pages = {391-396}, pmid = {16675037}, issn = {0166-3542}, mesh = {Antiviral Agents/metabolism/pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Capsid/metabolism ; Humans ; Picornaviridae Infections/*drug therapy/physiopathology/virology ; Protease Inhibitors/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Rhinovirus/*drug effects/physiology ; }, abstract = {Human rhinoviruses (HRV), members of the Picornaviridae family, are comprised of over 100 different virus serotypes. HRV represent the single most important etiological agents of the common cold [Arruda, E., Pitkaranta, A., Witek Jr., T.J., Doyle, C.A., Hayden, F.G., 1997. Frequency and natural history of rhinovirus infections in adults during autumn. J. Clin. Microbiol. 35, 2864-2868; Couch, R.B., 1990. Rhinoviruses. In: Fields, B.N., Knipe, D.M. (Eds.), Virology. Raven Press, New York, pp. 607-629; Turner, R.B., 2001. The treatment of rhinovirus infections: progress and potential. Antivir. Res. 49 (1), 1-14]. Although HRV-induced upper respiratory illness is often mild and self-limiting, the socioeconomic impact caused by missed school or work is enormous and the degree of inappropriate antibiotic use is significant. It has been estimated that upper respiratory disease accounts for at least 25 million absences from work and 23 million absences of school annually in the United States [Anzueto, A., Niederman, M.S., 2003. Diagnosis and treatment of rhinovirus respiratory infections. Chest 123 (5), 1664-1672; Rotbart, H.A., 2002. Treatment of picornavirus infections. Antivir. Res. 53, 83-98]. Increasing evidences also describe the link between HRV infection and more serious medical complications. HRV-induced colds are the important predisposing factors to acute otitis media, sinusitis, and are the major factors in the induction of exacerbations of asthma in adults and children. HRV infections are also associated with lower respiratory tract syndromes in individuals with cystic fibrosis, bronchitis, and other underlying respiratory disorders [Anzueto, A., Niederman, M.S., 2003. Diagnosis and treatment of rhinovirus respiratory infections. Chest 123 (5), 1664-1672; Gern, J.E., Busse, W.W., 1999. Association of rhinovirus infections with asthma. Clin. Microbiol. Rev. 12 (1), 9-18; Pitkaranta, A., Arruda, E., Malmberg, H., Hayden, F.G., 1997. Detection of rhinovirus in sinus brushings of patients with acute community-acquired sinusitis by reverse transcription-PCR. J. Clin. Microbiol. 35, 1791-1793; Pitkaranta, A., Virolainen, A., Jero, J., Arruda, E., Hayden, F.G., 1998. Detection of rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, and coronavirus infections in acute otitis media by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Pediatrics 102, 291-295; Rotbart, H.A., 2002. Treatment of picornavirus infections. Antivir. Res. 53, 83-98]. To date, no effective antiviral therapies have been approved for either the prevention or treatment of diseases caused by HRV infection. Thus, there still exists a significant unmet medical need to find agents that can shorten the duration of HRV-induced illness, lessen the severity of symptoms, minimize secondary bacterial infections and exacerbations of underlying disease and reduce virus transmission. Although effective over-the-counter products have been described that alleviate symptoms associated with the common cold [Anzueto, A., Niederman, M.S., 2003. Diagnosis and treatment of rhinovirus respiratory infections. Chest 123 (5), 1664-1672; Gwaltney, J.M., 2002a. Viral respiratory infection therapy: historical perspectives and current trials. Am. J. Med. 22 (112 Suppl. 6A), 33S-41S; Turner, R.B., 2001. The treatment of rhinovirus infections: progress and potential. Antivir. Res. 49 (1), 1-14; Sperber, S.J., Hayden, F.G., 1988. Chemotherapy of rhinovirus colds. Antimicrob. Agents Chemother. 32, 409-419], this review will primarily focus on the discovery and development of those agents that directly or indirectly impact virus replication specifically highlighting new advances and/or specific challenges with their development.}, }
@article {pmid16645294, year = {2006}, author = {Li, L and Mac-Mary, S and Sainthillier, JM and Nouveau, S and de Lacharriere, O and Humbert, P}, title = {Age-related changes of the cutaneous microcirculation in vivo.}, journal = {Gerontology}, volume = {52}, number = {3}, pages = {142-153}, doi = {10.1159/000091823}, pmid = {16645294}, issn = {0304-324X}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Face ; Female ; Forearm ; Hand ; Humans ; Laser-Doppler Flowmetry ; Microcirculation/*physiology ; Microscopic Angioscopy ; Middle Aged ; Skin/*blood supply ; Skin Aging/*physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The architectural frameworks of the skin microcirculation are rather complex and change continuously with aging. But these changes are yet poorly documented in vivo.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: Using non-invasive methods belonging to the field of biometrology, the study aimed to investigate quantitatively the changes of the cutaneous microvasculature in different anatomic sites with age.<br><br>METHODS: Measurements were performed on crow's feet, forehead, volar forearm and dorsum of hand in 50 women (aged 20-74 years who consisted of 10 probands in each live decades). The superficial vascular plexus was scanned by videocapillaroscopy and assessed with the software Capilab Toolbox. The subpapillary vascular plexus was explored with laser Doppler flowmetry. The skin color a* was analyzed by chromametry.<br><br>RESULTS: A marked site and age effect on the skin microcirculation has been demonstrated. The density of capillary loops in the eldest group decreased by about 40-70% compared with the youngest group whereas the vascular length increased by 35-156%. The capillary density in the back of the hand was 4 times higher than in the crow's feet. The vascular length in the crow's feet was 3 times longer than in the back of the hand. Both blood flow and skin redness (a*) increased also with age.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Both morphology and quantification of the cutaneous microvasculature showed changes with site and age. Videocapillaroscopy associated to an image processing and laser Doppler flowmetry revealed different vascular layers. So the combination of both instruments offers an easy way to observe the architectural frameworks in vivo.}, }
@article {pmid16634429, year = {2006}, author = {Kalashnikova, MM and Fadeeva, EO}, title = {[Ultrastructural study of liver cells from rooks living in ecologically unfavorable areas].}, journal = {Izvestiia Akademii nauk. Seriia biologicheskaia}, volume = {}, number = {2}, pages = {133-141}, pmid = {16634429}, issn = {1026-3470}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Ecology ; *Environmental Pollution ; Erythrocytes/ultrastructure ; Hepatocytes/*ultrastructure ; Liver/*cytology/ultrastructure ; Liver Glycogen/ultrastructure ; Mitochondria, Liver/ultrastructure ; Mitochondrial Swelling ; Radioactive Pollutants/toxicity ; }, abstract = {The ultrastructure of liver cells was studied in rooks (Corvus frugilegus) living in radioactive and chemical contamination areas. The ultrastructure of liver cells from rook as well as jackdaw (Corvus monedula) and hooded crow (Corvus cornix) (Corvidae family) from a conventionally clean area was studied as control. Control hepatocytes proved to contain a great number of mitochondria, many of which were swollen and had clear matrix and disorganized cristae. The cristae nearly lacked glycogen and had abundant lipid droplets, which often tightly contacted mitochondria. The cytoplasm of hepatocytes in birds from both ecologically unfavorable areas had numerous mitochondria with the same ultrastructure. In contrast to control, the hepatocyte cytoplasm: (1) contained a lot of glycogen; (2) there were many lipid droplets, which directly contacted glycogen granules; and (3) had more abundant peroxisomes. In addition to normal erythrocytes, the sinusoids contained erythrocytes with mitochondria, vesicles, and lipid droplets in their cytoplasm. Analysis of many micrographs of lipid droplets contacting glycogen granules, mitochondria, peroxisomes, and cisterns of smooth endoplasmic reticulum allowed us to propose that glycogen is synthesized via gluconeogenesis from glycerol and products of fatty acid oxidation in the liver cell cytoplasm of rooks from ecologically unfavorable areas as distinct from control.}, }
@article {pmid16634307, year = {2006}, author = {Preston, KL and Rotenberry, JT}, title = {Independent effects of food and predator-mediated processes on annual fecundity in a songbird.}, journal = {Ecology}, volume = {87}, number = {1}, pages = {160-168}, doi = {10.1890/05-0344}, pmid = {16634307}, issn = {0012-9658}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Ecosystem ; Fertility/*physiology ; *Food Supply ; *Predatory Behavior ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {We investigated the relative importance and interaction of ecological processes affecting annual fecundity in birds by simultaneously manipulating food availability and nest predation risk in a small songbird, the Wrentit (Chamaea fasciata). From 2000 to 2002 we provided supplemental food to individual Wrentit territories, and during 2002 we altered nest predation risk by providing supplemental food to their principal predators, Western Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma californica). These experiments were conducted during a period of high interannual variation in rainfall, with 2002 being one of the driest years on record. Food-supplemented Wrentits in a normal predation environment produced an average of 0.54 more fledglings per year than control pairs over the three breeding seasons. During the feeding plus predation manipulation experiment, Wrentit food supplementation and lowered nest predation risk each independently increased the probability that a Wrentit pair would fledge young; however, the interaction between food supplementation and altered nest predation risk was not significant. Thus, even in an extreme drought year, both food and nest predation had equal but independent effects on reproductive success and annual fecundity. Combining supplemental food with reduced nest predation did not result in a synergistic increase in annual fecundity, primarily because Wrentits did not produce multiple broods. Our results suggest that whether food and predation have additive or synergistic effects on reproductive success depends on the life history of the species and the environment in which they live.}, }
@article {pmid16631929, year = {2006}, author = {Zanello, A and Perrig, L and Huguelet, P}, title = {Cognitive functions related to interpersonal problem-solving skills in schizophrenic patients compared with healthy subjects.}, journal = {Psychiatry research}, volume = {142}, number = {1}, pages = {67-78}, doi = {10.1016/j.psychres.2003.07.009}, pmid = {16631929}, issn = {0165-1781}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; *Interpersonal Relations ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving ; Schizophrenia/physiopathology ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; }, abstract = {Subjects with schizophrenia have cognitive alterations. The functional consequences of these deficits need to be fully determined, in order to implement more effective rehabilitation programs for patients with schizophrenia. This research explores the relationships between cognitive functioning and social problem-solving skills in a group of 20 chronic schizophrenic patients compared with those found in a group of 20 healthy subjects. The following cognitive domains were evaluated: verbal memory (Rey Auditory-Verbal Test; RAVLT), visuo-spatial organization and visuo-spatial memory (Rey-Osterrieth complex figure test; RF), executive functioning (semantic verbal fluency test; VF, design fluency task; DF and Wisconsin Card Sorting Test; WCST), attention (d 2 cancellation test) and general intellectual ability (Standard Progressive Matrices of Raven; SPM). Social problem-solving skills were assessed with a video-based test; the Assessment of Interpersonal Problem-Solving Skills (AIPSS). As a group, patients performed significantly worse than control subjects on every cognitive variable and on AIPSS receiving, processing and sending constructs. Among schizophrenic patients, correlations between AIPSS constructs and neuropsychological tests were observed for VF, DF, d2 and SPM whilst these associations were not replicated in healthy subjects. However, in the whole sample, after adjusting for age, gender and education, SPM displayed significant associations with all three AIPSS constructs. Moreover, after taking SPM into account, neither diagnostic groups (patients versus control) nor cognitive variables, except d2, provided an additional contribution to AIPSS performance. Cognitive impaired performances, mainly frontal, have a deleterious effect on social problem-solving skills in the schizophrenic group. It is suggested that alterations in social problem-solving skills may reflect social anxiety and/or " theory of mind " impairment. These factors may explain the lack of association among healthy subjects. The results support the inclusion of cognitive remediation programs designed to enhance social skills for patients where a cognitive deficit is clearly ascertained.}, }
@article {pmid16629722, year = {2006}, author = {Mdegela, RH and Nonga, HE and Ngowi, HA and Kazwala, RR}, title = {Prevalence of thermophilic campylobacter infections in humans, chickens and crows in Morogoro, Tanzania.}, journal = {Journal of veterinary medicine. B, Infectious diseases and veterinary public health}, volume = {53}, number = {3}, pages = {116-121}, doi = {10.1111/j.1439-0450.2006.00926.x}, pmid = {16629722}, issn = {0931-1793}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/etiology ; Campylobacter Infections/epidemiology/*veterinary ; Campylobacter jejuni/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; *Chickens ; Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Crows ; DNA, Bacterial/analysis ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Poultry Diseases/epidemiology/etiology ; Prevalence ; Rural Health ; Tanzania/epidemiology ; Urban Health ; Zoonoses/*epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Prevalence of thermophilic Campylobacter infections in humans, chickens and crows was determined in a cross-sectional study that was carried out in urban and rural areas of Morogoro region, Tanzania during the period of January 2003 to December 2004. A total of 632 human stool samples, 536 cloacal swabs from local and broiler chickens and 22 intestinal contents from crows were screened for presence of thermophilic campylobacters using Skirrow's protocol. Representative Campylobacter jejuni isolates from human and chicken samples were also analysed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as a definitive identification method. The overall prevalence of thermophilic campylobacters was 9.3% (95% CI: 7.2-11.9), 69.8% (95% CI: 65.7-73.6) and 72.7% (95% CI: 49.8-89.3) in humans, chickens and crows respectively. In humans, 59 thermophilic campylobacters were isolated of which 96.6% were C. jejuni and 3.4%Campylobacter coli. There was a significantly (P<0.001) higher prevalence in young individuals (16%) than in adults (7%). Of 341 isolates from chickens, 91.2% were C. jejuni and 8.8% were C. coli. A significantly (P<0.05) higher infection rate was observed in rural local chicken (76%) than in broilers (60%). In crows, of 16 isolates, 93.8% were C. jejuni and 6.2% were C. coli. Definitive identification of C. jejuni by PCR revealed positive results in 74.1% of 243 analysed isolates. Findings in this study indicate high prevalence of thermophilic campylobacters in humans, chickens and crows in Morogoro, and a higher infection rate of C. jejuni than that of C. coli in different animal species. Age of humans and location of chickens were identified as risk factors for thermophilic Campylobacter infections. Positive isolates to biochemical tests that indicated negative results on PCR indicates the additional value of PCR for definitive diagnosis of C. jejuni.}, }
@article {pmid16629444, year = {2006}, author = {Maeshima, S and Tanemura, J and Osawa, A and Kawarada, M and Sekiguchi, E and Itakura, T}, title = {[Clinical usefulness of the frontal assessment battery (FAB) for elderly in memory clinic].}, journal = {No to shinkei = Brain and nerve}, volume = {58}, number = {3}, pages = {207-211}, pmid = {16629444}, issn = {0006-8969}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Amnesia/*psychology ; *Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale ; *Cognition ; Dementia/*psychology ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/pathology ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Temporal Lobe/pathology ; }, abstract = {To investigate the usefulness of the frontal assessment battery (FAB) as a brief assessment for diagnosis in patients with dementia, we examined cognitive function using the FAB, Mini-mental state examination (MMSE), Kana-hiroi test, and Raven's colored progressive matrices (RCPM). Subjects were 82 senile patients having amnesia as a complaint including 28 Alzheimer's disease (AD), 14 frontotemporal dementia (FTD), 17 vascular dementia (VD), 13 mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 10 healthy persons. We discussed the difference of scores in different types of dementia. In the FAB, the scores of healthy persons and MCI were much higher compared with the scores of all types of dementia. There were high correlation between FAB and MMSE, Kana-hiroi test, and RCPM. Although some subjects showed normal score in MMSE and/or RCPM, they showed low score in FAB. Based on this, FAB is efficient for the differential diagnosis of dementia as brief screening tool.}, }
@article {pmid16623830, year = {2006}, author = {Schabus, M and Hödlmoser, K and Gruber, G and Sauter, C and Anderer, P and Klösch, G and Parapatics, S and Saletu, B and Klimesch, W and Zeitlhofer, J}, title = {Sleep spindle-related activity in the human EEG and its relation to general cognitive and learning abilities.}, journal = {The European journal of neuroscience}, volume = {23}, number = {7}, pages = {1738-1746}, doi = {10.1111/j.1460-9568.2006.04694.x}, pmid = {16623830}, issn = {0953-816X}, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; *Cognition ; *Electroencephalography ; Female ; Humans ; *Learning ; Memory ; *Sleep ; Sleep Stages ; }, abstract = {Stage 2 sleep spindles have been previously viewed as useful markers for the development and integrity of the CNS and were more currently linked to 'offline re-processing' of implicit as well as explicit memory traces. Additionally, it had been discussed if spindles might be related to a more general learning or cognitive ability. In the present multicentre study we examined the relationship of automatically detected slow (< 13 Hz) and fast (> 13 Hz) stage 2 sleep spindles with: (i) the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (testing 'general cognitive ability'); as well as (ii) the Wechsler Memory scale-revised (evaluating memory in various subdomains). Forty-eight healthy subjects slept three times (separated by 1 week) for a whole night in a sleep laboratory with complete polysomnographic montage. Whereas the first night only served adaptation and screening purposes, the two remaining nights were preceded either by an implicit mirror-tracing or an explicit word-pair association learning or (corresponding) control task. Robust relationships of slow and fast sleep spindles with both cognitive as well as memory abilities were found irrespectively of whether learning occurred before sleep. Based on the present findings we suggest that besides being involved in shaping neuronal networks after learning, sleep spindles do reflect important aspects of efficient cortical-subcortical connectivity, and are thereby linked to cognitive- and memory-related abilities alike.}, }
@article {pmid16619622, year = {2006}, author = {Reisen, WK and Barker, CM and Carney, R and Lothrop, HD and Wheeler, SS and Wilson, JL and Madon, MB and Takahashi, R and Carroll, B and Garcia, S and Fang, Y and Shafii, M and Kahl, N and Ashtari, S and Kramer, V and Glaser, C and Jean, C}, title = {Role of corvids in epidemiology of west Nile virus in southern California.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {43}, number = {2}, pages = {356-367}, doi = {10.1603/0022-2585(2006)043[0356:rocieo]2.0.co;2}, pmid = {16619622}, issn = {0022-2585}, support = {5R01-AI55607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; California/epidemiology ; Chickens/virology ; Crows/*virology ; Culex/*virology ; Female ; Geography ; Humans ; Incidence ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; Population Density ; Population Surveillance ; Sentinel Surveillance/veterinary ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/transmission ; *West Nile virus ; Zoonoses/transmission/virology ; }, abstract = {The invasion of different southern California landscapes by West Nile virus (WNV) and its subsequent amplification to epidemic levels during 2004 enabled us to study the impact of differing corvid populations in three biomes: the hot Colorado desert with few corvids (Coachella Valley), the southern San Joaquin Valley (Kern County) with large western scrub-jay but small American crow populations, and the cool maritime coast (Los Angeles) with a large clustered American crow population. Similar surveillance programs in all three areas monitored infection rates in mosquitoes, seroconversion rates in sentinel chickens, seroprevalence in wild birds, numbers of dead birds reported by the public, and the occurrence of human cases. Infection rates in Culex tarsalis Coquillett and sentinel chicken seroconversion rates were statistically similar among all three areas, indicating that highly competent mosquito hosts were capable of maintaining enzootic WNV transmission among less competent and widely distributed avian hosts, most likely house sparrows and house finches. In contrast, infection rates in Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus Say were statistically higher in Kern and Los Angeles counties with elevated corvid populations than in Coachella Valley with few corvids. Spatial analyses of dead corvids showed significant clusters near known American crow roosts in Los Angeles that were congruent with clusters of human cases. In this area, the incidence of human and Cx. p. quinquefasciatus infection was significantly greater within corvid clusters than without, indicating their importance in virus amplification and as a risk factor for human infection. In contrast the uniform dispersion by territorial western scrub-jays resulted in a high, but evenly distributed, incidence of human disease in Kern County.}, }
@article {pmid16619621, year = {2006}, author = {Reisen, WK and Fang, Y and Lothrop, HD and Martinez, VM and Wilson, J and Oconnor, P and Carney, R and Cahoon-Young, B and Shafii, M and Brault, AC}, title = {Overwintering of West Nile virus in Southern California.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {43}, number = {2}, pages = {344-355}, doi = {10.1603/0022-2585(2006)043[0344:oownvi]2.0.co;2}, pmid = {16619621}, issn = {0022-2585}, support = {1-R01-AI55607/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; CI00235/CI/NCPDCID CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/transmission/*virology ; Birds ; California/epidemiology ; Culex/*virology ; Female ; Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical ; Injections, Subcutaneous/veterinary ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; Male ; Seasons ; Temperature ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/transmission/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/pathogenicity/*physiology ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (family Flaviviridae, genus Flavivirus, WNV) invaded southern California during 2003, successfully overwintered, amplified to epidemic levels, and then dispersed to every county in the state. Although surveillance programs successfully tracked and measured these events, mechanisms that allowed the efficient overwintering and subsequent amplification of WNV have not been elucidated. Our current research provided evidence for three mechanisms whereby WNV may have persisted in southern California during the winters of 2003-2004 and 2004-2005: 1) continued enzootic transmission, 2) vertical transmission by Culex mosquitoes, and 3) chronic infection in birds. WNV was detected in 140 dead birds comprising 32 species, including 60 dead American crows, thereby verifying transmission during the November-March winter period. Dead American crows provide evidence of recent transmission because this species always succumbs rapidly after infection. However, WNV RNA was not detected concurrently in 43,043 reproductively active female mosquitoes comprising 11 species and tested in 1,258 pools or antibody in sera from 190 sentinel chickens maintained in 19 flocks. Although efficient vertical transmission by WNV was demonstrated experimentally for Culex tarsalis Coquillett infected per os, 369 females collected diapausing in Kern County and tested in 32 pools were negative for WNV. Vertical transmission was detected in Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus Say adults reared from field-collected immatures collected from Kern County and Los Angeles during the summer transmission period. Chronic infection was detected by finding WNV RNA in 34 of 82 birds that were inoculated with WNV experimentally, held for >6 wk after infection, and then necropsied. Frequent detection of WNV RNA in kidney tissue in experimentally infected birds >6 wk postinfection may explain, in part, the repeated detection of WNV RNA in dead birds recovered during winter, especially in species such as mourning doves that typically do not die after experimental infection. In summary, our study provides limited evidence to support multiple modes of WNV persistence i n southern California. Continued transmission andvertical transmission by Culex p. quinquefasciatus Say seem likely candidates for further study.}, }
@article {pmid16617712, year = {2005}, author = {Benko, LB}, title = {The price of good intentions. Mo. hospital's asthma initiative aims to reduce unnecessary visits and save HMOs cash, but is it killing its own bottom line?.}, journal = {Modern healthcare}, volume = {35}, number = {48}, pages = {6-7, 1}, pmid = {16617712}, issn = {0160-7480}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Asthma/economics/*prevention &amp; control ; Child ; *Disease Management ; Emergency Service, Hospital/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Health Maintenance Organizations/economics ; Health Services Misuse ; Hospitalization/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Hospitals, Pediatric/economics/*organization &amp; administration ; Humans ; Missouri ; }, abstract = {Jay Portnoy, left, chief of allergy, asthma and immunology at Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, Mo., took multitasking to the next level with a special disease-management program that focuses on asthma. Since starting the program in 2001, Children's Mercy has seen a huge decline in asthma-related ER visits and admissions. It's now selling its program to insurers.}, }
@article {pmid16615207, year = {2006}, author = {de Kort, SR and Clayton, NS}, title = {An evolutionary perspective on caching by corvids.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {273}, number = {1585}, pages = {417-423}, pmid = {16615207}, issn = {0962-8452}, support = {MH2602/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Biological Evolution ; *Feeding Behavior ; Memory ; Passeriformes/genetics/*physiology ; Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {A principal finding in the food-caching literature is that species differences in hoarding propensity are positively correlated with species differences in degree of adaptations to caching behaviour, such as performance on spatial memory tasks and hippocampal volume. However, there are examples that do not fit this pattern. We argue that these examples can be better understood by considering the phylogenetic relatedness between species. We reconstruct the ancestral state for caching behaviour in corvids and assess when transitions in caching behaviour occurred within the corvid phylogeny. Our analysis shows that the common ancestor of all corvids was a moderate cacher. This result suggests that corvids followed a bi-directional evolutionary trajectory in which caching was secondarily lost twice and there were at least two independent transitions from moderate to specialized caching. The independent evolution of specialized cachers in the two groups must, therefore, be a case of convergent evolution. This is exemplified by the fact that specialized cachers show structurally different adaptations serving the same function to intense caching, such as different pouches to transport food. Finally, we argue that convergent evolution may have led to adaptations in memory and hippocampus that serve the same function but differ in design, and that these different adaptations may explain the examples that do not fit the pattern predicted by the adaptive specialization hypothesis.}, }
@article {pmid16608689, year = {2006}, author = {Eggers, S and Griesser, M and Nystrand, M and Ekman, J}, title = {Predation risk induces changes in nest-site selection and clutch size in the Siberian jay.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {273}, number = {1587}, pages = {701-706}, pmid = {16608689}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Clutch Size ; Fear/*physiology/psychology ; Female ; Linear Models ; *Nesting Behavior ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Predatory Behavior ; }, abstract = {Life-history theory predicts that an individual should reduce its reproductive efforts by laying a smaller clutch size when high risk of nest predation reduces the value of current reproduction. Evidence in favour of this 'nest predation hypothesis', however, is scarce and based largely on correlative analyses. Here, we manipulated perceived risk of nest predation in the Siberian jay Perisoreus infaustus using playback involving a mixture of calls by corvid nest predators in the vicinity of nest sites. In response to being exposed to this acoustic cue simulating increased risk of nest predation, the jays chose a nest site offering more protective covering and reduced clutch size. This is the first experimental demonstration of clutch size adjustment and nest site selection as a result of phenotypic plasticity in an open nesting passerine reflecting a facultative response to the perceived risk of nest predation.}, }
@article {pmid16605369, year = {2006}, author = {Vigneron, JP and Colomer, JF and Rassart, M and Ingram, AL and Lousse, V}, title = {Structural origin of the colored reflections from the black-billed magpie feathers.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {73}, number = {2 Pt 1}, pages = {021914}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.73.021914}, pmid = {16605369}, issn = {1539-3755}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Colorimetry/*methods ; Computer Simulation ; Feathers/*physiology/*ultrastructure ; Light ; *Models, Biological ; Scattering, Radiation ; }, abstract = {The structural origin of the weak iridescence on some of the dark feathers of the black-billed magpie, Pica pica (Corvidae), is found in the structure of the ribbon-shaped barbules. The cortex of these barbules contains cylindrical holes distributed as the nodes of an hexagonal lattice in the hard layer cross section. The cortex optical properties are described starting from a photonic-crystal film theory. The yellowish-green coloration of the bird's tail can be explained by the appearance of a reflection band related to the photonic-crystal lowest-lying gap. The bluish reflections from the wings are produced by a more complicated mechanism, involving the presence of a cortex second gap."}, }
@article {pmid16600891, year = {2006}, author = {Hunt, GR and Corballis, MC and Gray, RD}, title = {Design complexity and strength of laterality are correlated in New Caledonian crows' pandanus tool manufacture.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {273}, number = {1590}, pages = {1127-1133}, pmid = {16600891}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Biological Evolution ; Crows/*physiology ; Discrimination Learning ; Feeding Behavior ; *Functional Laterality ; Manufactured Materials ; Mental Processes/*physiology ; New Caledonia ; Plant Leaves ; }, abstract = {Population-level laterality is generally considered to reflect functional brain specialization. Consequently, the strength of population-level laterality in manipulatory tasks is predicted to positively correlate with task complexity. This relationship has not been investigated in tool manufacture. Here, we report the correlation between strength of laterality and design complexity in the manufacture of New Caledonian crows' three pandanus tool designs: wide, narrow and stepped designs. We documented indirect evidence of over 5,800 tool manufactures on 1,232 pandanus trees at 23 sites. We found that the strength of laterality in tool manufacture was correlated with design complexity in three ways: (i) the strongest effect size among the population-level edge biases for each design was for the more complex, stepped design, (ii) the strength of laterality at individual sites was on average greater for the stepped design than it was for the simpler wide and narrow, non-stepped designs, and (iii) there was a positive, but non-significant, trend for a correlation between the strength of laterality and the number of steps on a stepped tool. These three aspects together indicate that greater design complexity generally elicits stronger lateralization of crows' pandanus tool manufacture.}, }
@article {pmid16600890, year = {2006}, author = {Ekman, J and Ericson, PG}, title = {Out of Gondwanaland; the evolutionary history of cooperative breeding and social behaviour among crows, magpies, jays and allies.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {273}, number = {1590}, pages = {1117-1125}, pmid = {16600890}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; *Cooperative Behavior ; Crows/physiology ; Female ; Male ; Phylogeny ; *Sexual Behavior, Animal ; *Social Behavior ; Songbirds/*physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Cooperative breeding is comparatively rare among birds in the mainly temperate and boreal Northern Hemisphere. Here we test if the distribution of breeding systems reflects a response to latitude by means of a phylogenetic analysis using correlates with geographical range among the corvids (crows, jays, magpies and allied groups). The corvids trace their ancestry to the predominantly cooperative 'Corvida' branch of oscine passerines from the Australo-Papuan region on the ancient Gondwanaland supercontinent, but we could not confirm the ancestral state of the breeding system within the family, while family cohesion may be ancestral. Initial diversification among pair-breeding taxa that are basal in the corvid phylogeny, represented by genera such as Pyrrhocorax and Dendrocitta, indicates that the corvid family in its current form could have evolved from pair-breeding ancestors only after they had escaped the Australo-Papuan shield. Within the family, cooperative breeding (alloparental care/family cohesion) is strongly correlated to latitude and its predominance in species maintaining a southerly distribution indicates a secondary evolution of cooperative breeding in the lineage leading away from the basal corvids. Multiple transitions show plasticity in the breeding system, indicating a response to latitude rather than evolutionary inertia. The evolutionary background to the loss of cooperative breeding among species with a northerly distribution is complex and differs between species, indicating a response to a variety of selection forces. Family cohesion where the offspring provide alloparental care is a main route to cooperatively breeding groups among corvids. Some corvid species lost only alloparental care, while maintaining coherent family groups. Other species lost family cohesion and, as a corollary, they also lost the behaviour where retained offspring provide alloparental care.}, }
@article {pmid16599930, year = {2006}, author = {Martín-Gálvez, D and Soler, JJ and Martínez, JG and Krupa, AP and Richard, M and Soler, M and Møller, AP and Burke, T}, title = {A quantitative trait locus for recognition of foreign eggs in the host of a brood parasite.}, journal = {Journal of evolutionary biology}, volume = {19}, number = {2}, pages = {543-550}, doi = {10.1111/j.1420-9101.2005.01002.x}, pmid = {16599930}, issn = {1010-061X}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Birds/*genetics ; DNA/blood/genetics ; Evolution, Molecular ; Female ; Gene Frequency ; Genotype ; *Host-Parasite Interactions ; Microsatellite Repeats/genetics ; Oviposition ; Ovum/*physiology ; Polymorphism, Genetic ; *Quantitative Trait Loci ; *Recognition, Psychology ; }, abstract = {Avian brood parasites reduce the reproductive output of their hosts and thereby select for defence mechanisms such as ejection of parasitic eggs. Such defence mechanisms simultaneously select for counter-defences in brood parasites, causing a coevolutionary arms race. Although coevolutionary models assume that defences and counter-defences are genetically influenced, this has never been demonstrated for brood parasites. Here, we give strong evidence for genetic differences between ejector and nonejectors, which could allow the study of such host defence at the genetic level, as well as studies of maintenance of genetic variation in defences. Briefly, we found that magpies, that are the main host of the great spotted cuckoo in Europe, have alleles of one microsatellite locus (Ase64) that segregate between accepters and rejecters of experimental parasitic eggs. Furthermore, differences in ejection rate among host populations exploited by the brood parasite covaried significantly with the genetic distance for this locus.}, }
@article {pmid16595298, year = {2006}, author = {Stewart, ME and Perry, R and Raidal, SR}, title = {Identification of a novel circovirus in Australian ravens (Corvus coronoides) with feather disease.}, journal = {Avian pathology : journal of the W.V.P.A}, volume = {35}, number = {2}, pages = {86-92}, doi = {10.1080/03079450600597345}, pmid = {16595298}, issn = {0307-9457}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Australia ; Base Sequence ; Bird Diseases/pathology/*virology ; Circovirus/*isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity ; Crows/*virology ; Feathers/*pathology/*virology ; Genome, Viral ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; Viral Proteins/chemistry ; }, abstract = {The complete genome of a novel Circovirus isolated from an Australian raven (Corvus coronoides) with feather lesions similar to those that occur in psittacine beak and feather disease is reported. Degenerate polymerase chain reaction primers were designed to amplify and sequence novel Circovirus DNA from affected feathers. Sequence analysis indicated that the tentatively named raven circovirus (RaCV) was 1898 nucleotides in size with two major open reading frames synonymous with other avian circoviruses, ORF C1 and ORF V1, likely to encode a putative capsid protein (Cap) and replicase-associated protein (Rep), respectively. In common with other circoviruses was the conservation of several nucleotide structures and amino acid motifs implicated in virus replication. Comparison with other members of the Circoviridae demonstrated that RaCV shares the greatest sequence homology with canary circovirus (CaCV) and pigeon circovirus (PiCV) and was more distantly related to the beak and feather disease virus, goose circovirus, duck circovirus and the two porcine circoviruses, PCV1 and PCV2. Phylogenetic analysis of the genome and the putative Cap and Rep proteins provided further evidence of the close relationship of RaCV with CaCV and PiCV.}, }
@article {pmid16583861, year = {2006}, author = {Rennie, AM}, title = {Midwives: magpies or mice?.}, journal = {RCM midwives : the official journal of the Royal College of Midwives}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {112}, pmid = {16583861}, mesh = {Clinical Competence ; Congresses as Topic ; Humans ; Midwifery/*organization &amp; administration ; *Nurse's Role ; Warfare ; }, }
@article {pmid16581516, year = {2006}, author = {Seed, AM and Tebbich, S and Emery, NJ and Clayton, NS}, title = {Investigating physical cognition in rooks, Corvus frugilegus.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {16}, number = {7}, pages = {697-701}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2006.02.066}, pmid = {16581516}, issn = {0960-9822}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {Although animals (particularly tool-users) are capable of solving physical tasks in the laboratory , the degree to which they understand them in terms of their underlying physical forces is a matter of contention. Here, using a new paradigm, the two-trap tube task, we report the performance of non-tool-using rooks. In contrast to the low success rates of previous studies using trap-tube problems , seven out of eight rooks solved the initial task, and did so rapidly. Instead of the usual, conceptually flawed control, we used a series of novel transfer tasks to test for understanding. All seven transferred their solution across a change in stimuli. However, six out of seven were unable to transfer to two further tasks, which did not share any one visual constant. One female was able to solve these further transfer tasks. Her result is suggestive evidence that rooks are capable of sophisticated physical cognition, if not through an understanding of unobservable forces , perhaps through rule abstraction. Our results highlight the need to investigate cognitive mechanisms other than causal understanding in studying animal physical cognition.}, }
@article {pmid16573329, year = {2006}, author = {Tenczar, EG and Krischik, VA}, title = {Management of cottonwood leaf beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) with a novel transplant soak and biorational insecticides to conserve coccinellid beetles.}, journal = {Journal of economic entomology}, volume = {99}, number = {1}, pages = {102-108}, doi = {10.1093/jee/99.1.102}, pmid = {16573329}, issn = {0022-0493}, mesh = {Agriculture/*methods ; Animals ; Bacillus thuringiensis/*pathogenicity ; Carbaryl/pharmacology ; Coleoptera/*drug effects/microbiology ; Cordyceps/*pathogenicity ; Drug Combinations ; Imidazoles/pharmacology ; Insecticides/*pharmacology ; Limonins/pharmacology ; Macrolides/pharmacology ; Neonicotinoids ; Nitro Compounds/pharmacology ; Pest Control, Biological/methods ; Populus/growth &amp; development ; Survival Analysis ; }, abstract = {Biorational foliar sprays and a novel application method of soaking transplants in imidacloprid were evaluated for control of adult and larval cottonwood leaf beetle, Chrysomela scripta F., on hybrid poplar, with emphasis on conservation of coccinellid predators. Foliar sprays of four biorational insecticides killed adult and larval C. scripta: Bacillus thuringiensis (B.t.) variety tenebrionis (Novodor), B.t. variety kurstaki (Raven), spinosad (Conserve SC), and azadirachtin (Azatin XL) (larvae only) but did not kill two species of coccinellids, Hippodamia convergens Guérin-Meneville and Harmonia axyridis (Pallas). Only imidacloprid (Admire 2) and carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus) killed two species of coccinellids and adult and larval C. scripta. We evaluated a novel stick soak method for systemically applying imidacloprid by soaking poplar sticks in Admire 2 solutions of 3 and 6 ml/liter for 48 h before planting. The imidacloprid in the sticks was translocated to the leaves and reduced survivorship of adult and larval C. scripta for 10 mo without any symptoms of phytotoxicity. The novel stick soak method did not kill two species of coccinellids when foraging on leaves.}, }
@article {pmid16569140, year = {2006}, author = {Bunting, M}, title = {Proactive interference and item similarity in working memory.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Learning, memory, and cognition}, volume = {32}, number = {2}, pages = {183-196}, doi = {10.1037/0278-7393.32.2.183}, pmid = {16569140}, issn = {0278-7393}, support = {2 T32 HD07460-09/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mathematics ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Paired-Associate Learning ; Pattern Recognition, Visual/*physiology ; *Proactive Inhibition ; Verbal Learning/physiology ; Word Association Tests ; }, abstract = {Proactive interference (PI) may influence the predictive utility of working memory span tasks. Participants in one experiment (N=70) completed Ravens Advanced Progressive Matrices (RAPM) and multiple versions of operation span and probed recall, modified for the type of memoranda (digits or words). Changing memoranda within- or across-trials released PI, but not doing so permitted PI buildup. Scores from PI-build trials, but not PI-release trials, correlated with RAPM and accounted for as much variance in RAPM as unmodified tasks. These results are consistent with controlled attention and inhibition accounts of working memory, and they elucidate a fundamental component of working memory span tasks.}, }
@article {pmid16566262, year = {2006}, author = {Godhardt, JA and Beheler, K and O'Connor, MJ and Whyte, TJ and Reisdorf, ES and Ubl, SJ and Bochsler, PN and Toohey-Kurth, KL}, title = {Evaluation of antigen-capture ELISA and immunohistochemical methods for avian surveillance of West Nile virus.}, journal = {Journal of veterinary diagnostic investigation : official publication of the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians, Inc}, volume = {18}, number = {1}, pages = {85-89}, doi = {10.1177/104063870601800112}, pmid = {16566262}, issn = {1040-6387}, mesh = {Animals ; Antigens, Viral/analysis ; Bird Diseases/*diagnosis/virology ; Brain/virology ; Cloaca/virology ; Cost-Benefit Analysis ; *Crows ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay/economics/methods/*veterinary ; Feathers/virology ; Immunohistochemistry/economics/methods/*veterinary ; Kidney/virology ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction/economics/veterinary ; Skin/virology ; Spleen/virology ; West Nile Fever/diagnosis/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Accurate detection of West Nile virus (WNV) in corvids is essential for monitoring the spread of virus during the mosquito season. Viremia in corvids is very high, with titers approaching 10(8) viral particles/ml. In the presence of such marked viremia, the sensitivity of real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis is unnecessary, and more cost-effective methods should be assessed. To this end, antigen-capture ELISA (ACE) and immunohistochemical (IHC) assays were evaluated. Skin, cloacal swab specimens, and feathers from corvids were tested by use of ACE, and results were compared with results obtained from use of real-time RT-PCR analysis. Of the 3 sample types, skin gave the best sensitivity (98%) and specificity (100%). Skin, brain, kidney, and spleen from corvids were analyzed by IHC, and results were compared with real-time RT-PCR results. Kidney and spleen were more often positive by use of IHC than were brain and skin tissue; however, IHC did not perform as well as ACE in the identification of virus-positive birds. Results of this study support the use of a skin sample in an ACE format as an effective surveillance method for corvids.}, }
@article {pmid16553307, year = {2006}, author = {Emery, NJ}, title = {Cognitive ornithology: the evolution of avian intelligence.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {361}, number = {1465}, pages = {23-43}, pmid = {16553307}, issn = {0962-8436}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Birds/*physiology ; Brain/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Learning/physiology ; }, abstract = {Comparative psychologists interested in the evolution of intelligence have focused their attention on social primates, whereas birds tend to be used as models of associative learning. However, corvids and parrots, which have forebrains relatively the same size as apes, live in complex social groups and have a long developmental period before becoming independent, have demonstrated ape-like intelligence. Although, ornithologists have documented thousands of hours observing birds in their natural habitat, they have focused their attention on avian behaviour and ecology, rather than intelligence. This review discusses recent studies of avian cognition contrasting two different approaches; the anthropocentric approach and the adaptive specialization approach. It is argued that the most productive method is to combine the two approaches. This is discussed with respects to recent investigations of two supposedly unique aspects of human cognition; episodic memory and theory of mind. In reviewing the evidence for avian intelligence, corvids and parrots appear to be cognitively superior to other birds and in many cases even apes. This suggests that complex cognition has evolved in species with very different brains through a process of convergent evolution rather than shared ancestry, although the notion that birds and mammals may share common neural connectivity patterns is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid16549217, year = {2006}, author = {Kawasaki, A and Fukushima, K and Kataoka, Y and Fukuda, S and Nishizaki, K}, title = {Using assessment of higher brain functions of children with GJB2-associated deafness and cochlear implants as a procedure to evaluate language development.}, journal = {International journal of pediatric otorhinolaryngology}, volume = {70}, number = {8}, pages = {1343-1349}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijporl.2006.01.010}, pmid = {16549217}, issn = {0165-5876}, mesh = {Audiometry ; Child ; *Cochlear Implants ; Connexin 26 ; Connexins/*genetics ; Deafness/*genetics/therapy ; Genetic Testing ; Humans ; *Language Development ; Mutation ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Speech Perception ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: While investigators have reported that patients with GJB2-associated deafness and cochlear implants have preferable language development, the mechanisms of this phenomenon remains unknown. The goal of the present study was to assess higher brain functions of patients with GJB2-related and GJB2-unrelated deafness as a method of evaluating language development.<br><br>METHODS: Eight children with cochlear implants were subjected to genetic testing for GJB2 and underwent the Raven colored progressive matrices test, Rey's auditory verbal learning test, Rey's complex figure test, the standardized language test for aphasia, the picture vocabulary test, and the standardized comprehension test for abstract words.<br><br>RESULTS: Three children were diagnosed with GJB2-related deafness, and five children were diagnosed with GJB2-unrelated deafness. All three GJB2-related cases demonstrated normal range higher brain functions and fair language development. By contrast, one GJB2-unrelated case showed a semantic disorder, another demonstrated a visual cognitive disorder with dyslexia, and another had attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Children with GJB2-unrelated deafness showed a high frequency of heterogeneous disorders that can affect proper language development. This difference between children with GJB2-related and GJB2-unrelated deafness may account for the improved language development in children with GJB2-related deafness and cochlear implants. Further, genetic diagnosis of the non-syndromic hearing loss represents a useful tool for the preoperative prediction of outcomes following a cochlear implant procedure.}, }
@article {pmid16548705, year = {2006}, author = {Compton, J}, title = {Serious as a heart attack: health-related content of late-night comedy television.}, journal = {Health communication}, volume = {19}, number = {2}, pages = {143-151}, doi = {10.1207/s15327027hc1902_6}, pmid = {16548705}, issn = {1041-0236}, mesh = {Persons with Disabilities ; *Heart Diseases ; Humans ; Public Opinion ; *Television ; *Wit and Humor as Topic ; }, abstract = {Although the medical community hoped that Vice President Dick Cheney's public experiences with heart problems and subsequent treatments would serve to raise awareness, educate the public about heart disease and treatment options, and showcase advances in cardiac care, late-night comedians saw Cheney's health problems as joke fodder. Comedians like Jay Leno, David Letterman, and Conan O'Brien ridiculed Cheney in their monologues, suggesting the vice president was frail, weak, and near death-certainly not a "poster boy" for contemporary cardiac care. This investigation presents a textual analysis of late-night comedy monologue jokes from July 25, 2000, to October 7, 2003. The themes that emerge in the jokes include Cheney's infirmity, his questionable fitness for office, and ridicule for his state-of-the-art defibrillator. Implications of health-related content in late-night comedy programs are offered, including the potential impacts on health knowledge and attitudes toward illness. This study takes an important step toward understanding health messages in an unconventional yet powerful media venue.}, }
@article {pmid16547296, year = {2006}, author = {Shawkey, MD and Hill, GE}, title = {Significance of a basal melanin layer to production of non-iridescent structural plumage color: evidence from an amelanotic Steller's jay (Cyanocitta stelleri).}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {209}, number = {Pt 7}, pages = {1245-1250}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.02115}, pmid = {16547296}, issn = {0022-0949}, mesh = {Animals ; Chickens ; Feathers/physiology/*ultrastructure ; Fourier Analysis ; Melanins/*physiology ; Microscopy, Electron ; Passeriformes/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Pigmentation/*physiology ; Spectrophotometry ; }, abstract = {Non-iridescent structural plumage color is typically produced by coherent scattering of light within a matrix of keratin and air (a ;spongy layer') in feather barbs. It remains unclear what role, if any, the basal melanin layer underlying this spongy layer plays in the production of coloration. Amelanism in birds with structural color is a ;natural experiment' in which melanin pigmentation is lost, allowing us to identify the effects of the loss of melanin on structural color production. Here we use full-spectrum spectrometry, transmission electron microscopy and Fourier analysis to compare the color and nanostructure of an amelanotic Steller's jay (Cyanocitta stelleri Gmelin) feather with a normal blue Steller's jay feather. As a control, we also examined a white domestic chicken (Gallus gallus Linnaeus) feather. The pale amelanotic jay feather had a broad reflectance curve with a blue/green peak, while the typical blue feather had a typical distinct bell-shaped blue curve with a UV/violet peak. The white chicken feather had a typical white reflectance curve with no discrete peaks. Electron microscopy revealed that both the amelanotic and blue feather barbs contained well-formed spongy layers that were of the correct size and arrangement to produce their measured peak reflectance values, whereas the chicken feather had no spongy layer. The washed-out color of the amelanotic jay feather was thus most probably caused by the loss of the basal melanin layer, suggesting that melanin functions to absorb incoherently scattered white light from the feather barb thereby increasing the purity of the color produced by the spongy layer.}, }
@article {pmid16546043, year = {2006}, author = {Rosca, T and Bontas, E and Vladescu, TG and St Tihoan, C and Gherghescu, G}, title = {Clinical controversy in orbitary cholesteatoma.}, journal = {Annals of diagnostic pathology}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {89-94}, doi = {10.1016/j.anndiagpath.2005.07.015}, pmid = {16546043}, issn = {1092-9134}, mesh = {Adult ; Child ; Cholesteatoma/*diagnosis/diagnostic imaging/pathology ; Cholesterol/*metabolism ; Granuloma, Foreign-Body/*diagnosis/diagnostic imaging/pathology ; Humans ; Lacrimal Apparatus/pathology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Orbital Neoplasms/*diagnosis/diagnostic imaging/pathology ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {Cholesterol granulomas are tumor-like lesions very rarely encountered in the orbital, frontal sinus, and maxillary sinus sites but with higher frequency in the middle-ear and petrous apex. Theoretically, cholesterol granulomas develop as a reaction to localized hemorrhages, often occurring in bony sites with no blood and blood products drainage. We present 5 cases with exophthalmoses, namely, 3 cases with granuloma and 2 cases with cholesteatoma, all being characterized by the presence of cholesterol spikes at the histologic examination. Henderson (Orbital tumors. 3rd ed. New York: Raven Press; 1994) reports cholesterol spikes in medical literature as structures with different histologic names as hematic cyst, intraorbital hematoma, subperiostal hemorrhages, chocolate cyst, and xanthomatosis reactive lesions of bone. In fact, cholesterol granuloma is the term for the pocket of hematogenous debris found in the frontal bone at surgery. We try to review the spectrum of clinical-pathological and radiographic features that characterize cholesterol granuloma but with the same surgical way management.}, }
@article {pmid16539720, year = {2006}, author = {Quintero-Gallego, EA and Gómez, CM and Vaquero Casares, E and Márquez, J and Pérez-Santamaría, FJ}, title = {Declarative and procedural learning in children and adolescents with posterior fossa tumours.}, journal = {Behavioral and brain functions : BBF}, volume = {2}, number = {}, pages = {9}, pmid = {16539720}, issn = {1744-9081}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This quasi-experimental study was designed to assess two important learning types - procedural and declarative--in children and adolescents affected by posterior fossa tumours (astrocytoma vs. medulloblastoma), given that memory has an important impact on the child's academic achievement and personal development.<br><br>METHODS: We had three groups: two clinical (eighteen subjects) and one control (twelve subjects). The learning types in these groups were assessed by two experimental tasks evaluating procedural-implicit and declarative memory. A Serial Reaction-Time Task was used to measure procedural sequence learning, and the Spanish version 1 of the California Verbal Learning Test-Children's Version- CVLT- 2 to measure declarative-explicit learning. The learning capacity was assessed considering only the blocks that represent learning, and were compared with MANOVA in clinical and normal subjects. The Raven, simple reaction-time, finger-tapping test, and grooved pegboard tests were used to assess the overall functioning of subjects. The results were compared with those from a control group of the same age, and with Spanish norm-referenced tools where available.<br><br>RESULTS: The results indicate the absence of procedural-implicit learning in both clinical groups, whereas declarative-explicit learning is maintained in both groups.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The clinical groups showed a conservation of declarative learning and a clear impairment of procedural learning. The results support the role of the cerebellum in the early phase of procedural learning.}, }
@article {pmid16537620, year = {2006}, author = {Johne, R and Wittig, W and Fernández-de-Luco, D and Höfle, U and Müller, H}, title = {Characterization of two novel polyomaviruses of birds by using multiply primed rolling-circle amplification of their genomes.}, journal = {Journal of virology}, volume = {80}, number = {7}, pages = {3523-3531}, pmid = {16537620}, issn = {0022-538X}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Base Sequence ; Birds/*virology ; Cloning, Molecular ; DNA, Viral/analysis/genetics ; *Genome, Viral ; Liver/virology ; Molecular Sequence Data ; *Nucleic Acid Amplification Techniques ; Open Reading Frames ; Phylogeny ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Polyomavirus/*chemistry/classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Polyomavirus Infections/*veterinary/virology ; Sequence Homology, Amino Acid ; Sequence Homology, Nucleic Acid ; Spleen/virology ; }, abstract = {Polyomaviruses are small nonenveloped particles with a circular double-stranded genome, approximately 5 kbp in size. The mammalian polyomaviruses mainly cause persistent subclinical infections in their natural nonimmunocompromised hosts. In contrast, the polyomaviruses of birds--avian polyomavirus (APV) and goose hemorrhagic polyomavirus (GHPV)--are the primary agents of acute and chronic disease with high mortality rates in young birds. Screening of field samples of diseased birds by consensus PCR revealed the presence of two novel polyomaviruses in the liver of an Eurasian bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula griseiventris) and in the spleen of a Eurasian jackdaw (Corvus monedula), tentatively designated as finch polyomavirus (FPyV) and crow polyomavirus (CPyV), respectively. The genomes of the viruses were amplified by using multiply primed rolling-circle amplification and cloned. Analysis of the FPyV and CPyV genome sequences revealed a close relationship to APV and GHPV, indicating the existence of a distinct avian group among the polyomaviruses. The main characteristics of this group are (i) involvement in fatal disease, (ii) the existence of an additional open reading frame in the 5' region of the late mRNAs, and (iii) a different manner of DNA binding of the large tumor antigen compared to that of the mammalian polyomaviruses.}, }
@article {pmid16529787, year = {2006}, author = {Tishon, A and Lewicki, H and Andaya, A and McGavern, D and Martin, L and Oldstone, MB}, title = {CD4 T cell control primary measles virus infection of the CNS: regulation is dependent on combined activity with either CD8 T cells or with B cells: CD4, CD8 or B cells alone are ineffective.}, journal = {Virology}, volume = {347}, number = {1}, pages = {234-245}, doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2006.01.050}, pmid = {16529787}, issn = {0042-6822}, support = {AG000080/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; AI036222/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; NS041219/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; NS048866/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adoptive Transfer ; Animals ; B-Lymphocytes/immunology ; CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes/*immunology ; CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology ; Central Nervous System Viral Diseases/*immunology/virology ; Humans ; Interferon-gamma/deficiency/genetics/immunology ; Lymphocyte Cooperation ; Measles/*immunology/virology ; Measles virus/*immunology/*pathogenicity ; Membrane Cofactor Protein/genetics/immunology ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Mice, Knockout ; Mice, Transgenic ; }, abstract = {Measles virus (MV), one of the most infectious of human pathogens, still infects over 30 million humans and causes over 500,000 deaths each year [Griffin, D., 2001. Measles virus. In: Fields, B., Knipe, D., Howley, P. (Eds.), Fields Virology. Lippincott-Raven, Philadelphia, pp. 1401-1442; ]. Death is primarily due to secondary microbial infections associated with the immunosuppression caused by MV. Studies of humans with genetic or acquired deficiencies of either the humoral or cellular arm of the immune system, and rodent models have implicated T cells in the control of the ongoing MV infection but the precise role and activities of the specific T cell subset or the molecules they produce is not clear. Using a transgenic mouse model in conjunction with depletion and reconstitution of individual B and T cell subsets alone or in combination, we show that neither CD4, CD8 nor B cells per se control acute MV infection. However, combinations of either CD4 T cells and B cells, or of CD4 and CD8 T cells are essential but CD8 T with B cells are ineffective. Interferon-gamma and neutralizing antibodies, but neither perforin nor TNF-alpha alone are associated with clearance of MV infection. TNF-alpha combined with interferon-gamma is more effective in protection than interferon alone. Further, the lack of an interferon-gamma response leads to persistence of MV.}, }
@article {pmid16521788, year = {2006}, author = {Jensen, KK and Klokker, S}, title = {Hearing sensitivity and critical ratios of hooded crows (Corvus corone cornix).}, journal = {The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America}, volume = {119}, number = {2}, pages = {1269-1276}, doi = {10.1121/1.2159431}, pmid = {16521788}, issn = {0001-4966}, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological ; Adult ; Animals ; Auditory Threshold/physiology ; Conditioning, Psychological ; Crows/*physiology ; Female ; Hearing/*physiology ; Humans ; Male ; Pitch Perception/physiology ; Psychoacoustics ; Time Factors ; Vocalization, Animal/physiology ; }, abstract = {The hearing threshold and critical ratios were estimated psycho-acoustically for captive wild-caught hooded crows by a yes/no procedure and the method of constant stimuli. Human subjects were tested in the same setup for direct comparison and to check for experimental artifacts. The hooded crows were found to have excellent low-frequency hearing capabilities compared to other passerine birds. Their hearing sensitivity is very close to that of humans at and below 5.6 kHz. The distribution of the critical ratios differed from that of the average bird and humans in being rather constant with frequency and not increasing monotonically. It furthermore showed a middle region of 5-6 dB lower critical ratio values between 500 Hz and 2 kHz. It is suggested that this improved range for hearing in noise is an adaptation to long distance communication. Human critical ratios gave the expected values and were between 3 and 6 dB lower than those of the crows.}, }
@article {pmid16521567, year = {2006}, author = {Reznikova, ZhI}, title = {[The study of tool use as the way for general estimation of cognitive abilities in animals].}, journal = {Zhurnal obshchei biologii}, volume = {67}, number = {1}, pages = {3-22}, pmid = {16521567}, issn = {0044-4596}, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological ; Animals ; *Cognition ; Learning ; Pattern Recognition, Physiological ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Investigation of tool use is an effective way to determine cognitive abilities of animals. This approach raises hypotheses, which delineate limits of animal's competence in understanding of objects properties and interrelations and the influence of individual and social experience on their behaviour. On the basis of brief review of different models of manipulation with objects and tools manufacturing (detaching, subtracting and reshaping) by various animals (from elephants to ants) in natural conditions the experimental data concerning tool usage was considered. Tool behaviour of anumals could be observed rarely and its distribution among different taxons is rather odd. Recent studies have revealed that some species (for instance, bonobos and tamarins) which didn't manipulate tools in wild life appears to be an advanced tool users and even manufacturers in laboratory. Experimental studies of animals tool use include investigation of their ability to use objects physical properties, to categorize objects involved in tool activity by its functional properties, to take forces affecting objects into account, as well as their capacity of planning their actions. The crucial question is whether animals can abstract general principles of relations between objects regardless of the exact circumstances, or they develop specific associations between concerete things and situations. Effectiveness of laboratory methods is estimated in the review basing on comparative studies of tool behaviour, such as "support problem", "stick problem", "tube- and tube-trap problem", and "reserve tube problem". Levels of social learning, the role of imprinting, and species-specific predisposition to formation of specific domains are discussed. Experimental investigation of tool use allows estimation of the individuals' intelligence in populations. A hypothesis suggesting that strong predisposition to formation of specific associations can serve as a driving force and at the same time as obstacle to animals' activity is discussed. In several "technically gifted" species (such as woodpecker finches, New Caledonian crows, and chimpanzees) tool use seems to be guided by a rapid process of trial and error learning. Individuals that are predisposed to learn specific connections do this too quickly and thus become enslaved by stereotypic solutions of raising problems.}, }
@article {pmid16513572, year = {2006}, author = {Hoffman, AM and Robakiewicz, PE and Tuttle, EM and Rogers, LJ}, title = {Behavioural lateralisation in the Australian magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen).}, journal = {Laterality}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, pages = {110-121}, doi = {10.1080/13576500500376674}, pmid = {16513572}, issn = {1357-650X}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Birds ; Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Fear ; Female ; Functional Laterality/*physiology ; Male ; }, abstract = {In many vertebrates, the brain is lateralised such that each hemisphere is specialised to serve specific functions. This may translate into lateralisation in behaviour through preferential use of receptors or appendages associated with a particular hemisphere (e.g., handedness) or in differential responses to stimuli perceived on the animal's left or right side. In this study, we investigated behavioural laterality in the Australian magpie, Gymnorhina tibicen. We found that, while the birds did not have a population bias for one antipredator behaviour (visual inspection of an approaching human), there were biases for another (alarm calling); those birds that used their left eye more relative to their right eye gave alarm calls more frequently. We also observed that juvenile birds begged for food on the right side of parents significantly more frequently than on the left side. These trends are consistent with trends in behavioural laterality that have been recorded in captive and lab-reared species. Ours is one of the few studies to observe patterns of laterality in a wild species.}, }
@article {pmid16512618, year = {2005}, author = {Prajsner, B and Pilch, B and Bałajewicz, A and Wesołowska, E}, title = {[Causes of tic disorders in children].}, journal = {Przeglad lekarski}, volume = {62}, number = {11}, pages = {1263-1268}, pmid = {16512618}, issn = {0033-2240}, mesh = {Brain/diagnostic imaging/pathology/physiopathology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Environment ; Female ; Hospitalization ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Projective Techniques ; Self Concept ; Severity of Illness Index ; Tic Disorders/*etiology/physiopathology/*rehabilitation ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {THE AIM OF THE WORK: Tic disorders are differentiated in their symptomatology and time of duration. Assessing the courses of tics can be crucial for more successful treatment. The aim of the study was to identify the egzogenic and endogenic causes of tic disorders.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: The group of 20 children and adolescents, 6 girls and 14 boys, aged 4-16 years, with tic disorders were analysed. 8 of them were identified as having transient tics 6 chronic motor or vocal tics and 6 Tourette's syndrome. WISC-R, Terman-Merrill, and Raven, Bender-Koppitz and Benton tests and questionnaire "Who are you", and projection tests, talk to children and their parents were used.<br><br>RESULTS: The analysed group consisted of 70% boys. Gestational and perinatal risk factors were confirmed in 5 children, in similar percentage of different types of tics. In 20% of patients CT or MRI examination showed mild abnormalities, whereas EEG examination excluded epileptic discharges. Majority of children with tics demonstrated significant emotional sesitivity (70%) and tendency to repress fear and anger (60%). Hyperkinetic disorders co-existing with Tourette's syndrome in 3 patients, while learning disabilities were confirmed in 30% children with tic disorders. The presence of negative environmental factors which may contribute to trigger tics showed a half of children from analysed group. Above all children experienced stress in family (40%) and/or in school (20%). The biological and/or environmental factors were detected in 80% children. They were not established in four patients: in one with transient tics and in three with Tourrete's syndrome.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The identification of biological and environmental factors is necessary in children with tics, because they are present and significant in majority of children. In 20% of children these factors were not confirmed and in this group other causes should be considered. Considering the risk of disordered emotional and social functioning of children with tics, leading in many cases to tics exacerbation, complex therapeutic care should be provided.}, }
@article {pmid19338893, year = {2006}, author = {Viterbo, F and Lutz, BS}, title = {Extended "C" myectomy of the lateral orbicularis oculi muscle-A safe and successful method for treatment of "crow's feet".}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {26}, number = {2}, pages = {131-135}, doi = {10.1016/j.asj.2006.01.004}, pmid = {19338893}, issn = {1527-330X}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Commonly, patients who seek facial rejuvenation complain about "crow's feet." Botulinum toxin injections can effectively correct such wrinkles but require repeated treatments.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: A modification of the earlier described vertical myectomy of the lateral orbicularis oculi muscle is presented.<br><br>METHODS: The skin at the lateral orbit was elevated, using the temporal approach when performing a forehead or face lift, or medially when only a blepharoplasty was performed. The lateral portion of the orbicularis oculi muscle was identified and dissected. A portion measuring from at least 3 cm to 4.5 cm (average 3.1 cm) in length and averaging 1.1 cm in width was resected in a pattern designed as a reversed "C" A small part (approximately 3 mm) of the muscle was preserved medially to keep the orbicularis oculi muscle in continuity for preservation of the sphincter.<br><br>RESULTS: All 28 patients treated in our series were free from relapse after follow-up ranging from 1 to 33 months. One patient developed a moderate hematoma that was treated successfully. Only 1 patient required additional fat grafting.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The extended "C" myectomy of the lateral orbicularis oculi muscle achieves excellent results and is easily performed in conjunction with a face lift or blepharoplasty with negligible morbidity. Usually no fat grafting is necessary.}, }
@article {pmid16499703, year = {2006}, author = {Omland, KE and Baker, JM and Peters, JL}, title = {Genetic signatures of intermediate divergence: population history of Old and New World Holarctic ravens (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {795-808}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2005.02827.x}, pmid = {16499703}, issn = {0962-1083}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial ; *Genetic Variation ; Geography ; Haplotypes ; Locus Control Region ; Molecular Sequence Data ; *Phylogeny ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Many studies of phylogeography, speciation, and species limits restrict their focus to a narrow issue: gene tree monophyly. However, reciprocal monophyly does not provide an ideal touchstone criterion of any aspect of evolutionary divergence. There is a continuum of divergence stages as isolated populations go from initial allele frequency differences to well-differentiated species. Studying intermediate stages of divergence will increase our understanding of geographical speciation, species limits, and conservation priorities. We develop a conceptual framework and terminology for thinking about the stages of 'intermediate polyphyly'. The Holarctic clade of common ravens (Corvus corax), found throughout much of Eurasia and North America, provides a case study of these stages of intermediate divergence. We used coalescent, phylogenetic, and population genetic methods to investigate the history and current status of this Old World-New World distribution using 107 mitochondrial control region sequences. Phylogenetically, New World and Old World samples are intermixed. However, most samples are grouped into small subclades that are restricted to either the New World or the Old World, and only one haplotype is shared between the hemispheres. Analysis of moleculalr variance (amova) results reflect this low haplotype sharing between hemispheres (Phi(ST) = 0.13, P < 0.01). Isolation with Migration (im) coalescent results suggest a sustained period of divergence between the hemispheres and low levels of maternal gene flow. Although there has not been sufficient time to evolve reciprocal monophyly and some gene flow may occur, New World and Old World ravens are genetically quite distinct. We use this example to demonstrate these early stages of divergence as populations go from sharing only internal haplotypes, to sharing no haplotypes, to having population specific subclades. Studies of phylogeography, speciation and systematics will benefit from increased attention to these stages of intermediate polyphyly.}, }
@article {pmid16496885, year = {2006}, author = {Poon, JK and Zhu, L and DeRose, GA and Yariv, A}, title = {Transmission and group delay of microring coupled-resonator optical waveguides.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {31}, number = {4}, pages = {456-458}, doi = {10.1364/ol.31.000456}, pmid = {16496885}, issn = {0146-9592}, abstract = {We measured the transmission and group delay of microring coupled-resonator optical waveguides (CROWs). The CROWs consisted of 12 weakly coupled, microring resonators fabricated in optical polymers (PMMA on Cytop). The intrinsic quality factor of the resonators was 18,000 and the interresonator coupling was 1%, resulting in a delay of 110-140 ps and a slowing factor of 23-29 over a 17 GHz bandwidth.}, }
@article {pmid16496117, year = {2006}, author = {Ocasio-Tascón, ME and Alicea-Colón, E and Torres-Palacios, A and Rodríguez-Cintrón, W}, title = {The veteran population: one at high risk for sleep-disordered breathing.}, journal = {Sleep &amp; breathing = Schlaf &amp; Atmung}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {70-75}, pmid = {16496117}, issn = {1520-9512}, mesh = {Depression/epidemiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Narcolepsy/epidemiology ; Polysomnography ; Risk Factors ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Severity of Illness Index ; Sleep Apnea Syndromes/*diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders/epidemiology ; Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/epidemiology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Veterans/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {Sleep complaints are very common among the general population and are usually accompanied by significant medical, psychological and social disturbances (Redline S, Strohl K, Otolaryngol Clin North Am, 132:303, 1999). A higher prevalence of sleep complaints has been described in the elderly (Vgontzas AN, Kales A, Annu Rev Med, 50:387-400, 1999). It is manifested by breathing disturbances during sleep, loud snoring, difficulties maintaining sleep, fatigue, daytime sleepiness, mood effects and impairment of daily activities (Lugaresi E, Cirignotta F, Zucconi M et al., Good and poor sleepers: an epidemiological survey of the San Marino population, Raven, New York, pp 1-12, 1983; Kales A, Soldatos CR, Kales JD, Am Fam Physician, 22:101-108, 1980). It has been associated with cardiovascular, endocrine and neurocognitive manifestations. Growing interest in early diagnosis and treatment has been noted in recent years based on emerging knowledge about the potential health consequences when the disease goes untreated (Nanen AM, Dunagan DP, Fleisher A et al., Chest, 121:1741, 2002). The veteran population in the mainland has a higher tendency for obesity, high blood pressure (HBP), sleep disorders and chronic alcohol consumption (Mustafa M, Erokwu N, Ebose I, Strohl K, Sleep Breath, 9:57-63, 2005). The Hispanic veteran population has never been studied in detail for sleep disorders and related conditions. We used previously validated screening tools for sleep disturbance breathing. Two hundred and forty-five questionnaires were administered. We found a higher prevalence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypopnea Syndrome (OSAHS) in our population compared with data from the mainland (USA). The mean age was 64 years (+/-11). Ninety seven per cent were males. The mean body mass index was 25 kg/cm(2); mean Epworth Sleepiness Scale score was 8. Thirty-four per cent met high-risk criteria for sleep apnea, 53% for insomnia, 13% for symptoms suggestive of narcolepsy and 13% for those suggestive of restless leg syndrome. There were high incidences of alcohol consumption (37.6%), diabetes (32.7%), hypercholesterolemia (31.8%), depression (31.8%), hypertension (39.6%) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (9.8%).}, }
@article {pmid16490988, year = {2006}, author = {Ito, H and Ito, T and Hikida, M and Yashiro, J and Otsuka, A and Kida, H and Otsuki, K}, title = {Outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Japan and anti-influenza virus activity of povidone-iodine products.}, journal = {Dermatology (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {212 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {115-118}, doi = {10.1159/000089210}, pmid = {16490988}, issn = {1018-8665}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Infective Agents, Local/*pharmacology ; Antiviral Agents/*pharmacology ; Asia/epidemiology ; Chick Embryo ; Chickens ; Disease Outbreaks/prevention &amp; control/veterinary ; Humans ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/drug effects ; Influenza A Virus, H7N7 Subtype/drug effects ; Influenza A Virus, H9N2 Subtype/drug effects ; Influenza A virus/*drug effects ; Influenza in Birds/epidemiology/transmission/*virology ; Influenza, Human/*prevention &amp; control/transmission/virology ; Japan/epidemiology ; Netherlands/epidemiology ; Povidone-Iodine/*pharmacology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: On January 12, 2004, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza, caused by the H5N1 strain, occurred in a one-layer flock in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan. It had been 79 years since the last outbreak of avian influenza was confirmed in Japan. By February, 3 additional outbreaks had occurred (1 in Oita Prefecture and 2 in Kyoto Prefecture). Influenza viruses are enveloped viruses and are relatively sensitive to inactivation by lipid solvents, such as detergents. Infectivity is also rapidly destroyed by ether, sodium hypochlorite, povidone-iodine (PVP-I), peracetic acid and alcohol. However, these antiviral effects were only tested against human influenza A viruses. In the present study, the antiviral activity of PVP-I products against H5, H7 and H9 avian influenza A viruses, which had recently been transmitted to humans, were investigated.<br><br>METHODS: The in vitro antiviral activity of PVP-I products (2% PVP-I solution, 0.5% PVP-I scrub, 0.25% PVP-I palm, 0.23% PVP-I gargle, 0.23% PVP-I throat spray and 2% PVP-I solution for animals) against avian influenza A viruses [a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus, A/crow/Kyoto/T2/04 (H5N1; 10(6.5) EID(50)/0.1 ml), and 3 low pathogenic avian influenza A viruses, A/whistling swan/Shimane/499/838 (H5N3; 10(4.8) EID(50)/0.1 ml), A/whistling swan/Shimane/42/80 (H7N7; 10(5.5) EID(50)/0.1 ml) and A/duck/Hokkaido/26/99 (H9N2; 10(4.8) EID(50)/0.1 ml)] were investigated using embryonated hen's eggs.<br><br>RESULTS/DISCUSSION: Viral infectious titers were reduced to levels below the detection limits by incubation for only 10 s with the PVP-I products used in this study. These results indicate that PVP-I products have virucidal activity against avian influenza A viruses. Therefore, the PVP-I products are useful in the prevention and control of human infection by avian influenza A viruses.}, }
@article {pmid16481684, year = {2006}, author = {Al-Hallaq, HA and Reft, CS and Roeske, JC}, title = {The dosimetric effects of tissue heterogeneities in intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) of the head and neck.}, journal = {Physics in medicine and biology}, volume = {51}, number = {5}, pages = {1145-1156}, doi = {10.1088/0031-9155/51/5/007}, pmid = {16481684}, issn = {0031-9155}, mesh = {Air ; Algorithms ; Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation ; Head and Neck Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Humans ; *Monte Carlo Method ; *Phantoms, Imaging ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; Skull/anatomy &amp; histology ; Spine/anatomy &amp; histology ; Water ; }, abstract = {The dosimetric effects of bone and air heterogeneities in head and neck IMRT treatments were quantified. An anthropomorphic RANDO phantom was CT-scanned with 16 thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) chips placed in and around the target volume. A standard IMRT plan generated with CORVUS was used to irradiate the phantom five times. On average, measured dose was 5.1% higher than calculated dose. Measurements were higher by 7.1% near the heterogeneities and by 2.6% in tissue. The dose difference between measurement and calculation was outside the 95% measurement confidence interval for six TLDs. Using CORVUS' heterogeneity correction algorithm, the average difference between measured and calculated doses decreased by 1.8% near the heterogeneities and by 0.7% in tissue. Furthermore, dose differences lying outside the 95% confidence interval were eliminated for five of the six TLDs. TLD doses recalculated by Pinnacle3's convolution/superposition algorithm were consistently higher than CORVUS doses, a trend that matched our measured results. These results indicate that the dosimetric effects of air cavities are larger than those of bone heterogeneities, thereby leading to a higher delivered dose compared to CORVUS calculations. More sophisticated algorithms such as convolution/superposition or Monte Carlo should be used for accurate tailoring of IMRT dose in head and neck tumours.}, }
@article {pmid16481615, year = {2006}, author = {Bond, AB and Kamil, AC}, title = {Spatial heterogeneity, predator cognition, and the evolution of color polymorphism in virtual prey.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {103}, number = {9}, pages = {3214-3219}, pmid = {16481615}, issn = {0027-8424}, support = {R01 MH068426/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; MH68426/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Cognition/*physiology ; *Color ; *Environment ; Moths/physiology ; Phenotype ; *Polymorphism, Genetic ; Predatory Behavior/*physiology ; Songbirds/physiology ; }, abstract = {Cryptically colored prey species are often polymorphic, occurring in multiple distinctive pattern variants. Visual predators promote such phenotypic variation through apostatic selection, in which they attack more abundant prey types disproportionately often. In heterogeneous environments, disruptive selection to match the coloration of disparate habitat patches could also produce polymorphism, but how apostatic and disruptive selection interact in these circumstances is unknown. Here we report the first controlled selection experiment on the evolution of prey coloration on heterogeneous backgrounds, in which blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) searched for digital moths on mixtures of dark and light patches at three different scales of heterogeneity. As predicted by ecological theory, coarse-grained backgrounds produced a functional dimorphism of specialists on the two patch types; fine-grained backgrounds produced generalists. The searching strategies of the jays also varied with the habitat configuration, however. Complex backgrounds with many moth-like features elicited a slow, serial search that depended heavily on selective attention. The result was increased apostatic selection, producing a broad range of moth phenotypes. Backgrounds with larger, more uniform patches allowed the birds to focus on the currently most rewarding patch type and to search entire patches rapidly in parallel. The result was less apostatic selection and lower phenotypic variability. The evolution of polymorphism in camouflaged prey depends on a complex interaction between habitat structure and predator cognition.}, }
@article {pmid16462007, year = {2005}, author = {Szérémi, A and Tárnok, Z and Farkas, L and Dótzi, J and Gádoros, J}, title = {[Neurocognitive symptoms of childhood attention deficit hyperactivity disorder].}, journal = {Psychiatria Hungarica : A Magyar Pszichiatriai Tarsasag tudomanyos folyoirata}, volume = {20}, number = {4}, pages = {299-311}, pmid = {16462007}, issn = {0237-7896}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; *Attention ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*diagnosis/*psychology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is the most common childhood-onset disorder that has been characterized with the dysfunction of executive functions. These functions are related to the frontal lobe, especially to different frontostriatal networks. The purpose of this study was to examine executive functions of 5-7 years old (non-literate) children with and without ADHD.<br><br>METHOD: We used well-known neuropsychological tests (and some other tests developed by us) which measure the organisation and execution of behavior and thinking. 31 children with ADHD and 26 healthy children without ADHD -- comparable to the other sample with respect to age and sex -- participated in this examination. We compared the two groups in terms of various aspects of executive functions, such as inhibition, attention, motor implementation and visual memory. The test battery used included the Colour Raven Test, a version of the Tower of Hanoi for children, the Bender A and B Test, the Block Design Subtest of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale, the children version of Rey Complex Figure Test, the Picture Attention Test and the Fruit Stroop Test. In order to explore the characteristics of the variables, the factor-analytic method was used by which the various aspects of executive functions could be separated.<br><br>RESULTS: Statistical comparison of the two groups revealed that several aspects of executive dysfunctions (strategy-constitution, inhibition, attention and motor implementation) can be seen in ADHD.}, }
@article {pmid16460886, year = {2006}, author = {Lazareva, OF and Wasserman, EA}, title = {Effect of stimulus orderability and reinforcement history on transitive responding in pigeons.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {72}, number = {2}, pages = {161-172}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2006.01.008}, pmid = {16460886}, issn = {0376-6357}, mesh = {Animals ; *Appetitive Behavior ; *Association Learning ; Attention ; *Color Perception ; Columbidae ; Crows ; *Discrimination Learning ; Feedback ; *Mental Recall ; Motivation ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Problem Solving ; *Reinforcement Schedule ; Size Perception ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Transitive responding in humans and non-human animals has attracted considerable attention because of its presumably inferential nature. In an attempt to replicate our earlier study with crows [Lazareva, O.F., Smirnova, A.A., Bagozkaja, M.S., Zorina, Z.A., Rayevsky, V.V., Wasserman, E.A., 2004. Transitive responding in hooded crows requires linearly ordered stimuli. J. Exp. Anal. Behav. 82, 1-19], we trained pigeons to discriminate overlapping pairs of colored squares (A+ B-, B+ C-, C+ D-, and D+ E-). For some birds, the colored squares, or primary stimuli, were followed by a circle of the same color (feedback stimuli) whose diameter decreased from A to E (Ordered Feedback group); these circles were made available to help order the stimuli along a physical dimension. For other birds, all of the feedback stimuli had the same diameter (Constant Feedback group). In later testing, novel choice pairs were presented, including the critical BD pair. The pigeons' reinforcement history with Stimuli B and D was controlled, so that the birds should not have chosen Stimulus B during the BD test. Unlike the crows, the pigeons selected Stimulus B over Stimulus D in both ordered and Constant Feedback groups, suggesting that the orderability of the post-choice feedback stimuli did not affect pigeons' transitive responding. Post hoc simulations showed that associative models [Wynne, C.D.L., 1995. Reinforcement accounts for transitive inference (TI) performance. Anim. Learn. Behav. 23, 207-217; Siemann, M., Delius, J.D., 1998. Algebraic learning and neural network models for transitive and non-transitive responding. Eur. J. Cogn. Psychol. 10, 307-334] failed to predict pigeons' responding in the BD test.}, }
@article {pmid16446742, year = {2006}, author = {Harris, SE and Fox, H and Wright, AF and Hayward, C and Starr, JM and Whalley, LJ and Deary, IJ}, title = {The brain-derived neurotrophic factor Val66Met polymorphism is associated with age-related change in reasoning skills.}, journal = {Molecular psychiatry}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {505-513}, doi = {10.1038/sj.mp.4001799}, pmid = {16446742}, issn = {1359-4184}, support = {MC_U127561128/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*genetics ; Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor/*genetics ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cohort Studies ; Follow-Up Studies ; Genetics, Behavioral ; Geriatric Assessment ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; Population Surveillance ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Reference Values ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {A polymorphism (Val66Met) in the gene encoding brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has previously been associated with impaired hippocampal function and scores on the Logical Memory subtest of the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised (WMS-R). Despite its widespread expression in the brain, there have been few studies examining the role of BDNF on cognitive domains, other than memory. We examined the association between BDNF Val66Met genotype and non-verbal reasoning, as measured by Raven's standard progressive matrices (Raven), in two cohorts of relatively healthy older people, one aged 79 (LBC1921) and the other aged 64 (ABC1936) years. LBC1921 and ABC1936 subjects had reasoning measured at age 11 years, using the Moray House Test (MHT), in the Scottish Mental Surveys of 1932 and 1947, respectively. BDNF genotype was significantly associated with later life Raven scores, controlling for sex, age 11 MHT score and cohort (P = 0.001). MHT, Verbal Fluency and Logical Memory scores were available, in later life, for LBC1921 only. BDNF genotype was significantly associated with age 79 MHT score, controlling for sex and age 11 MHT score (P = 0.016). In both significant associations, Met homozygotes scored significantly higher than heterozygotes and Val homozygotes. This study indicates that BDNF genotype contributes to age-related changes in reasoning skills, which are closely related to general intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid16426675, year = {2006}, author = {Belcheva, NN and Zakhartsev, M and Silina, AV and Slinko, EN and Chelomin, VP}, title = {Relationship between shell weight and cadmium content in whole digestive gland of the Japanese scallop Patinopecten yessoensis (Jay).}, journal = {Marine environmental research}, volume = {61}, number = {4}, pages = {396-409}, doi = {10.1016/j.marenvres.2005.12.001}, pmid = {16426675}, issn = {0141-1136}, mesh = {Animal Structures/chemistry ; Animals ; Cadmium/*analysis/metabolism/pharmacology ; Digestive System/chemistry ; *Environmental Exposure ; Environmental Monitoring/*methods ; Pectinidae/*chemistry/drug effects/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; Regression Analysis ; Seasons ; Time Factors ; Water Pollutants, Chemical ; }, abstract = {Seasonal and age-specific variations of cadmium (Cd) concentration in the digestive gland were investigated in the Japanese scallop Patinopecten yessoensis from Peter the Great Bay, Sea of Japan, with different degrees of Cd pollution. The seasonal changes in Cd concentrations of the digestive gland were inversely proportional to the dry weight of the gland. Concentrations of Cd and total Cd content (mug Cd per organ) increased with age (age-specific) to the same extent in contaminated and uncontaminated areas. There was also a strong positive correlation between Cd content in the whole digestive gland and shell weight and it is proposed that this relationship can be used as a new criterion for comparative evaluation of Cd levels in scallops from different areas We hypothesize that Cd is uptaken into scallops in proportion to the amount of calcium that absorbed through ion channels, and in addition, Cd in the digestive gland is in immobile forms (e.g. metal-rich granules) that accumulate with age. Moderate environmental pollution has no effect on the relationship between Cd content and shell size and the observed decrease in growth performance of the scallops from polluted areas may be due to other factors.}, }
@article {pmid16425650, year = {2005}, author = {Zaini, MZ and Lim, CT and Low, WY and Harun, F}, title = {Effects of nutritional status on academic performance of Malaysian primary school children.}, journal = {Asia-Pacific journal of public health}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {81-87}, doi = {10.1177/101053950501700204}, pmid = {16425650}, issn = {1010-5395}, mesh = {Child ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Interviews as Topic ; *Learning ; Malaysia ; Male ; *Nutritional Status ; *Schools ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {Numerous factors are known to affect the academic performance of students. These include prenatal conditions, birth conditions, postnatal events, nutritional, socio-economic factors and environmental factors. This paper examines the nutritional status and its relationship with academic performance of 9-10 years old primary school children recruited randomly in Selangor, Malaysia. A standard self-administered questionnaire was utilized to obtain pertinent information and a face-to-face interview was also conducted with the parents. Results of the academic performances were extracted from the students' report cards. The intellectual performance was assessed using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices. Physical examination was also conducted on these students by doctors. Overall 1,405 students and 1,317 parents responded to the survey. Of these 83.6% were Malays, 11.6% Indians, and 4.2% Chinese. The majority of them (82.9%) were from urban areas. The female: male ratio was 51:49; mean age was 9.71 years. The mean height and weight were 32.3 kg and 135.2 cm respectively. Their mean BMI was 17.42 kg/cm2, with 0.9% underweight, 76.3% normal BMI, 16.3% overweight, and 6.3% obese. Academic performance was significantly correlated with breast feeding, income and educational level of their parents, BMI, and whether they have been taking breakfast. There was a weak correlation between presence of anaemia and intellectual performance. Improving the socio-economic status of the parents will lend a helping hand in the academic performance of the students. Since breast feeding is associated with better academic and intellectual performance it must be emphasized, particularly to expectant mothers in the antenatal clinics.}, }
@article {pmid16424929, year = {2006}, author = {Mabrey, JD}, title = {Jay Donald Mabrey, MD: a conversation with the editor. Interview by William Clifford Roberts.}, journal = {Proceedings (Baylor University. Medical Center)}, volume = {19}, number = {1}, pages = {29-42}, pmid = {16424929}, issn = {0899-8280}, }
@article {pmid16417430, year = {2005}, author = {Tiawsirisup, S and Platt, KB and Tucker, BJ and Rowley, WA}, title = {Eastern cottontail rabbits (Sylvilagus floridanus) develop West Nile virus viremias sufficient for infecting select mosquito species.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {5}, number = {4}, pages = {342-350}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2005.5.342}, pmid = {16417430}, issn = {1530-3667}, support = {U50/CCU720519//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aedes/virology ; Animals ; Chickens ; Culex/virology ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; *Rabbits ; Time Factors ; Viral Load/veterinary ; Viremia/transmission/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile Fever/transmission/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The potential of the eastern cottontail rabbit (CTR; Sylvilagus floridanus) to contribute to an enzootic West Nile virus (WNV) cycle was demonstrated by characterizing the WNV viremia profile of 15 CTRs and demonstrating that mosquitoes could become infected by feeding on these CTRs. Eight CTRs were infected with a titer of 10(5.0) cell-infectious dose 50% endpoints (CID50s) of WNV (NY99-Crow) by needle and seven CTRs by bite of one or more WNV-infected mosquitoes. There were no marked differences between the WNV viremia profiles of CTRs infected by either method. West Nile virus was detected in serums of all CTRs by 24 h p.i. The daily mean titers of all 15 CTRs on days 1-4 p.i. were 10(4.1+/-0.4), 10(4.7+/-0.3), 10(4.1+/-0.6), and 10(3.7+/-0.6) respectively, declining to 10(1.2+/-0.1) CID50s/ml of serum by day 6 p.i. No virus was detected in the blood of any CTR on day 7 p.i. The average duration of WNV titers of >or=10(4.3) and <10(5.0) CID50s/mL for all CTRs was 2.2 +/- 0.6 and 1.0 +/- 0.1 days, respectively. The minimum estimated infection rates (MEIRs) of Culex pipiens (L.) and Culex salinarius (Coq.) that fed on CTRs with titers of >or=10(4.3) and >10(5.0) were 11.5 +/- 5.5 and 21 +/- 6.0%, respectively. These rates increased to 20.5 +/- 6.4% and 25.0 +/- 3.0% when CTR serum titers were >10(5.0) CID50s/mL. Neither Aedes aegypti (L.) nor Aedes albopictus (Skuse) were infected by feeding on CTRs with titers of <10(5.0) CID50s/mL. The MEIRs of these two species were 11.5 +/- 3.5% and 1.5 +/- 0.5% after feeding on CTRs with titers of >10(5.0) CID50s/ml. None of the CTRs infected by mosquito bite or by needle showed any symptoms of WNV disease.}, }
@article {pmid16414910, year = {2005}, author = {Khatri, KA and Margolis, RJ and Bhatty, RS and Garcia, V}, title = {Comparison of two wound dressings after laser skin resurfacing.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology}, volume = {7}, number = {3-4}, pages = {206-212}, doi = {10.1080/14764170500450356}, pmid = {16414910}, issn = {1476-4172}, mesh = {*Bandages, Hydrocolloid ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Female ; Humans ; *Laser Therapy ; Male ; Skin/radiation effects ; *Wound Healing ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: It has been reported that the final outcome of laser resurfacing still depends to a large degree on the efficiency of the post laser resurfacing wound care in promoting wound healing and preventing early and late complications.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare a new hydrocolloid dressing, H2460, with Flexzan(TM) for healing of an acute wound after laser skin resurfacing (LSR).<br><br>METHODS: Ten volunteers received LSR of the peri-orbital area with an erbium:YAG laser. Identical parameters were used on both sides: 2 J, 5 mm spot, 8 Hz, 300 micros pulse, two passes on the upper eyelids, four passes on the lower eyelids and six passes on the crow's feet area. Soon after the LSR, one side was covered with Flexzan dressing and the other side was covered with a new hydrocolloid dressing -- H2460. The side of the dressing was randomized by alternating both dressings. All volunteers were evaluated and digitally photographed every day for a week and at 1 month after LSR. The degree of erythema, swelling, bleeding, oozing, crusting, pigmentary changes, scarring, discomfort, itching, burning, ease of application of dressings, initial adhesion, overall adhesion, leakage of fluid, maceration of surrounding skin, ease of removal and adhesive residue upon removal were documented.<br><br>RESULTS: In all volunteer and investigator's evaluations, the new dressing, H2460, achieved far better results than Flexzan in each category. After a 1-week follow-up all volunteers and the investigator evaluated the H2460 side as: healed better, simple to use, and caused less discomfort in 10 out of 10 volunteers. The blinded observer's assessment showed that the Flexzan side healed better in one volunteer.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The new dressing, H2460, is a better and suitable alternative to Flexzan as a post LSR dressing.}, }
@article {pmid16411990, year = {2006}, author = {Simon, J and Gray, A and Duley, L and , }, title = {Cost-effectiveness of prophylactic magnesium sulphate for 9996 women with pre-eclampsia from 33 countries: economic evaluation of the Magpie Trial.}, journal = {BJOG : an international journal of obstetrics and gynaecology}, volume = {113}, number = {2}, pages = {144-151}, doi = {10.1111/j.1471-0528.2005.00785.x}, pmid = {16411990}, issn = {1470-0328}, support = {G116/98/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Anticonvulsants/economics/*therapeutic use ; Cost-Benefit Analysis ; Female ; Hospitalization/economics ; Humans ; Internationality ; Magnesium Sulfate/economics/*therapeutic use ; Pre-Eclampsia/*drug therapy/economics ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Outcome ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To assess the cost-effectiveness of using magnesium sulphate for pre-eclampsia to prevent eclampsia.<br><br>DESIGN: Multinational trial-based economic evaluation.<br><br>SETTING: Thirty-three countries participating in the Magnesium Sulphate for Prevention of Eclampsia (Magpie) Trial.<br><br>POPULATION: Women (9996) with pre-eclampsia from the Magpie Trial.<br><br>METHODS: Outcome and hospital resource use data were available for the trial period from the Magpie Trial. Country-specific unit costs (U.S. dollar, year 2001) were obtained subsequently from participating hospitals by questionnaire. Cost-effectiveness was estimated for three categories of countries grouped by gross national income (GNI) into high, middle and low GNI countries using a regression model. Uncertainty was explored in sensitivity analyses.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Eclampsia, hospital care costs and the incremental cost per case of eclampsia prevented.<br><br>RESULTS: The number of women with pre-eclampsia who needed to receive magnesium sulphate to prevent one case of eclampsia was 324 [95% confidence interval (CI) 122, infinity] in high, 184 (95% CI 91, 6798) in middle and 43 (95% CI 30, 68) in low GNI countries. The additional hospital care cost per woman receiving magnesium sulphate was $65, $13 and $11, respectively. The incremental cost of preventing one case of eclampsia was $21,202 in high, $2473 in middle and $456 in low GNI countries. Reserving treatment for severe pre-eclampsia would lower these estimates to $12,942, $1179 and $263.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Magnesium sulphate for pre-eclampsia costs less and prevents more eclampsia in low GNI than in high GNI countries. Cost-effectiveness substantially improves if it is used only for severe pre-eclampsia, or the purchase price is reduced in low GNI countries.}, }
@article {pmid16409562, year = {2006}, author = {McAulay, V and Deary, IJ and Sommerfield, AJ and Frier, BM}, title = {Attentional functioning is impaired during acute hypoglycaemia in people with Type 1 diabetes.}, journal = {Diabetic medicine : a journal of the British Diabetic Association}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {26-31}, doi = {10.1111/j.1464-5491.2005.01795.x}, pmid = {16409562}, issn = {0742-3071}, mesh = {Acute Disease ; Adolescent ; Adult ; *Attention ; Auditory Perception ; Cognition ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/drug therapy/*psychology ; Humans ; Hypoglycemia/chemically induced/*psychology ; Hypoglycemic Agents/adverse effects ; Insulin/adverse effects ; Intelligence Tests ; Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {AIMS: To examine the effects of acute insulin-induced hypoglycaemia on different aspects of attention and on general non-verbal reasoning in people with Type 1 diabetes.<br><br>METHODS: A hyperinsulinaemic glucose clamp was used to maintain euglycaemia (4.5 mmol/l) or induce hypoglycaemia (2.6 mmol/l) on separate occasions in 16 adults with Type 1 diabetes each of whom were studied on two occasions in a counterbalanced order. During each study condition, the subjects completed parallel tests of cognitive function assessed by the Test of Everyday Attention and the Raven's Progressive Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: Hypoglycaemia caused a significant deterioration in tests sensitive to visual and auditory selective attention. During hypoglycaemia, attentional flexibility deteriorated and speed of information processing was delayed. Sustained attention and intelligence scores were preserved during hypoglycaemia.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In people with Type 1 diabetes, hypoglycaemia causes a significant deterioration in attentional abilities, while non-verbal reasoning is preserved. It is likely therefore that many complex cognitive tasks which involve attention will be impaired during moderate hypoglycaemia during everyday life.}, }
@article {pmid16405007, year = {2005}, author = {Adams, CJ and Feldman, SH and Sleeman, JM}, title = {Phylogenetic analysis of avian poxviruses among free-ranging birds of Virginia.}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {49}, number = {4}, pages = {601-605}, doi = {10.1637/7369-041805R.1}, pmid = {16405007}, issn = {0005-2086}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/virology ; Avipoxvirus/*classification/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Bird Diseases/virology ; Birds/*virology ; DNA, Viral/genetics ; Europe ; Genes, Viral ; Phylogeny ; Poxviridae Infections/veterinary/virology ; Virginia ; }, abstract = {Polymerase chain reaction was used to amplify a portion of the avian poxvirus core 4b gene of infected free-ranging birds that presented at the Wildlife Center of Virginia during the 2003 and early 2004 years. The species of bird infected were a great blue heron (Ardea herodias), two American crows (Corvus brachyrhyncos), two American robins (Turdus migratorius), two mourning doves (Zenaida macroura), a red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), a blue-gray gnatcatcher (Polioptila caerulea), a northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos), a house finch (Carpodacus mexicanus), and a northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis). Phylogenetic analysis was performed using the consensus sequences determined for each avian case in Virginia in combination with avian poxvirus core 4b gene sequence from isolates previously described in Europe and that of vaccinia virus. Alignment of DNA sequences identified areas of point mutations and, in the case of a single mourning dove, the incorporation of a triplet of nucleotides. Maximum-likelihood analysis grouped the 2003-2004 Virginia avian poxviruses into a clade distinct from those reported in European free-ranging birds, with the exception of a single case in a mourning dove that clustered within one European clade. The cladogram that resulted from our analysis of the European isolates is in agreement with those previously published. This study identified a distinct clade of avian poxvirus unique from four clades previously described and associated with epornitics in free-ranging birds, where the core 4b gene DNA sequence has been the basis of comparison.}, }
@article {pmid16404647, year = {2006}, author = {Lee, CJ and Kim, SG and Han, JY}, title = {The results of periorbital rejuvenation with botulinum toxin A using two different protocols.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {30}, number = {1}, pages = {65-70}, doi = {10.1007/s00266-005-0151-8}, pmid = {16404647}, issn = {0364-216X}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Female ; Humans ; Injections, Subcutaneous ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; *Rejuvenation ; Research Design ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study was proposed to analyze the changes in shape and position of the eyebrow before and after botulinum toxin A injection using two different protocols for a periorbital rejuvenation.<br><br>METHODS: The botulinum toxin A treatment was performed for brow-lift and effacement of crow's feet (group A), and for brow-lift and effacement of glabellar frown lines in addition to crow' feet (group B). To evaluate the change in brow shape and height, measurements of five points around the brow were taken before and after treatment.<br><br>RESULTS: In groups A and B, the brow positions were elevated, and the interbrow distance was increased. The central brow showed the largest elevation, followed by the lateral brow and the medial brow. The difference in the interbrow distance between groups A and B was statistically significant (p < 0.001).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Elevation of the eyebrow with the desired aesthetically pleasing curvature was obtained after botulinum toxin A treatment in both groups using two different protocols for periorbital rejuvenation. The effect on the muscular dynamics after treatment can be changed according to the amount and the injection points. Therefore, in determining the injection protocols for periorbital rejuvenation, consideration should be given to the change in brow position and shape according to the change in the muscular dynamics after treatment.}, }
@article {pmid16401246, year = {2005}, author = {Kashiwa, Y and Kitabayashi, Y and Narumoto, J and Nakamura, K and Ueda, H and Fukui, K}, title = {Anosognosia in Alzheimer's disease: association with patient characteristics, psychiatric symptoms and cognitive deficits.}, journal = {Psychiatry and clinical neurosciences}, volume = {59}, number = {6}, pages = {697-704}, doi = {10.1111/j.1440-1819.2005.01439.x}, pmid = {16401246}, issn = {1323-1316}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Alzheimer Disease/*complications/*psychology ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology/*psychology ; Depressive Disorder/psychology ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/physiology ; Humans ; Male ; Memory/physiology ; Memory Disorders/*etiology/*psychology ; Mental Disorders/*etiology/*psychology ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Verbal Behavior ; }, abstract = {Anosognosia is one of the major problems in the treatment and care of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. The aim of the study was to determine the patient characteristics, psychiatric symptoms, and cognitive deficits associated with anosognosia, because these are currently poorly understood. Eighty-four patients who met the National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disease and Stroke-Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Association criteria for probable AD were examined for anosognosia based on the difference between questionnaire scores of the patient and their caregiver. The relationship of anosognosia with patient characteristics (age, age at onset, duration of illness, education, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR), Hyogo Activities of Daily Living Scale (HADLS)), psychiatric symptoms (Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS)), and cognitive function (Digit Span, Word Fluency Test, Trail Making Test, Stroop Test, Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices Test) were studied. Anosognosia showed positive correlations with age, age at onset, duration of illness, CDR, HADLS, and NPI disinhibition, and negative correlations with MMSE and GDS. Regarding cognitive function, only Part III of the Stroop Test was a predictor of anosognosia. The severity of anosognosia increased with disease progression and with a later age at onset. Subjective complaints of depression requiring self-monitoring of mood tended to decrease and, in contrast, inhibition of socially unsuitable behavior became more difficult as anosognosia worsened. Regarding cognitive function, anosognosia appeared to be associated with response inhibition impairment. Both disinhibition, as a psychiatric symptom, and response inhibition impairment are known to be correlated with disturbance of orbitofrontal function, which therefore may be associated with anosognosia.}, }
@article {pmid16400058, year = {2006}, author = {Zimmermann, MB and Connolly, K and Bozo, M and Bridson, J and Rohner, F and Grimci, L}, title = {Iodine supplementation improves cognition in iodine-deficient schoolchildren in Albania: a randomized, controlled, double-blind study.}, journal = {The American journal of clinical nutrition}, volume = {83}, number = {1}, pages = {108-114}, doi = {10.1093/ajcn/83.1.108}, pmid = {16400058}, issn = {0002-9165}, mesh = {Albania/epidemiology ; Child ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Dietary Supplements ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Goiter/blood/*drug therapy/epidemiology ; Humans ; Iodine/administration &amp; dosage/*deficiency/urine ; Iodized Oil/*administration &amp; dosage ; Male ; Motor Activity/*drug effects ; Prevalence ; Psychometrics ; Thyroid Gland/*diagnostic imaging ; Thyroid Hormones/*blood ; Thyrotropin/blood ; Thyroxine/blood ; Treatment Outcome ; Ultrasonography ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Iodine is required for the production of thyroid hormones, which are necessary for normal brain development and cognition. Although several randomized trials examined the effect of iodine supplementation on cognitive performance in schoolchildren, the results were equivocal.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: We aimed to ascertain whether providing iodized oil to iodine-deficient children would affect their cognitive and motor performance.<br><br>DESIGN: In a double-blind intervention trial, 10-12-y-old children (n = 310) in primary schools in rural southeastern Albania were randomly assigned to receive 400 mg I (as oral iodized oil) or placebo. We measured urinary iodine (UI), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and total thyroxine (TT4) concentrations and thyroid gland volume (by ultrasound). The children were given a battery of 7 cognitive and motor tests, which included measures of information processing, working memory, visual problem solving, visual search, and fine motor skills. Thyroid ultrasound and the biochemical and psychological tests were repeated after 24 wk.<br><br>RESULTS: At baseline, the children's median UI concentration was 43 microg/L; 87% were goitrous, and nearly one-third had low concentrations of circulating TT4. Treatment with iodine markedly improved iodine and thyroid status: at 24 wk, median UI in the treated group was 172 microg/L, mean TT4 was approximately 40% higher, and the prevalence of hypothyroxinemia was < 1%. In the placebo group after the intervention, these variables did not differ significantly from baseline. Compared with placebo, iodine treatment significantly improved performance on 4 of 7 tests: rapid target marking, symbol search, rapid object naming, and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (P < 0.0001).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Information processing, fine motor skills, and visual problem solving are improved by iodine repletion in moderately iodine-deficient schoolchildren.}, }
@article {pmid16397201, year = {2006}, author = {Dwyer, E}, title = {Psychiatry and race during World War II.}, journal = {Journal of the history of medicine and allied sciences}, volume = {61}, number = {2}, pages = {117-143}, doi = {10.1093/jhmas/jrj035}, pmid = {16397201}, issn = {0022-5045}, mesh = {Black or African American/*psychology ; Combat Disorders/ethnology/*history/therapy ; Health Services Needs and Demand ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; *Mental Health Services ; Military Personnel/*psychology ; Military Psychiatry/*history ; *Prejudice ; United States ; White People/*psychology ; *World War II ; }, abstract = {Although the American literature on "war neuroses" expanded during World War II, psychiatrists remained more interested in dramatic instances of "combat fatigue" than in the problems of soldiers who broke down far from the field of battle. This bias in the medical literature shaped both diagnosis and treatment. It had an especially powerful effect on African American soldiers who, in the "Jim Crow" army of World War II, were assigned in disproportionate numbers to service units. When military neuropsychiatrists did write about troubled young African Americans, many revealed a racial conservatism that was surprising given the liberal environmentalist paradigm of the day. (Here, a particularly useful source is the two-volume history of Neuropsychiatry in World War II, produced by the Medical Department of the U.S. Army.) The major challenge to such views came from the National Medical Association (NMA). Despite its many criticisms of military medicine, the NMA argued that African American soldiers and veterans needed more, not fewer, psychiatric services. NMA members also joined their white counterparts in the campaign to diminish the stigma of mental illness, especially among the families of soldiers returning home. We need more investigation of the subsequent history of race and psychiatry, especially within the Veterans Administration.}, }
@article {pmid16383072, year = {2005}, author = {Abdel-Khalek, AM}, title = {Reliability and factorial validity of the standard progressive matrices among Kuwaiti children ages 8 to 15 years.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {101}, number = {2}, pages = {409-412}, doi = {10.2466/pms.101.2.409-412}, pmid = {16383072}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Cross-Cultural Comparison ; *Developing Countries ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/*standards/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Kuwait ; Language ; Male ; Psychometrics/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Reference Values ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {The Raven Standard Progressive Matrices was administered to a sample of 6,529 children in Kuwait ranging in age from 8 to 15 years. Test-retest reliability (N = 968) ranged between .69 and .85, while Cronbach coefficients alpha ranged from .88 to .93, showing from acceptable to good temporal stability and from good to high internal consistency. The loadings of the five sets of matrices on the only salient factor ranged from .73 to .89 indicating the good factorial validity of the scale. The rtest seems useful in the Kuwaiti context.}, }
@article {pmid16365953, year = {2005}, author = {Raven, J}, title = {John Raven.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {15}, number = {22}, pages = {R905-6}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2005.11.006}, pmid = {16365953}, issn = {0960-9822}, mesh = {Career Choice ; Peer Review ; Photosynthesis/*physiology ; *Plant Physiological Phenomena ; }, }
@article {pmid16363684, year = {2005}, author = {Takasaki, T}, title = {[West Nile fever].}, journal = {Nihon rinsho. Japanese journal of clinical medicine}, volume = {63}, number = {12}, pages = {2127-2132}, pmid = {16363684}, issn = {0047-1852}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Flaviviridae ; Humans ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*virology ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus was first detected in North America in 1999 and has spread throughout the United States and Canada and into Mexico and the Caribbean. The cases of encephalitis in New York were diagnosed as Saint Louis encephalitis which was endemic in the North America. However, dead crows and dead flamingo were found around the same time in New York. American birds seldom die by Saint Louis encephalitis virus infection. According to viral isolation and sequencing of the genome, the causative agent of unknown encephalitis was West Nile virus which was a member of Flaviviridae which cause fever, meningitis and encephalitis. West Nile virus is still active in North America in summer season, 1999 -2005. CDC enlightens people how to protect themselves and their community from West Nile virus. There are some reports that West Nile viral infections were occurred by blood transfusion, biologic products from blood and organ transfusion.}, }
@article {pmid16356325, year = {2005}, author = {Wheatley, T and Weisberg, J and Beauchamp, MS and Martin, A}, title = {Automatic priming of semantically related words reduces activity in the fusiform gyrus.}, journal = {Journal of cognitive neuroscience}, volume = {17}, number = {12}, pages = {1871-1885}, doi = {10.1162/089892905775008689}, pmid = {16356325}, issn = {0898-929X}, mesh = {Adult ; Cerebrovascular Circulation/physiology ; Cues ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Oxygen Consumption/physiology ; Psycholinguistics ; *Reading ; Semantics ; Temporal Lobe/*physiology ; Touch/*physiology ; }, abstract = {We used rapid, event-related fMRI to identify the neural systems underlying object semantics. During scanning, subjects silently read rapidly presented word pairs (150 msec, SOA = 250 msec) that were either unrelated in meaning (ankle-carrot), semantically related (fork-cup), or identical (crow-crow). Activity in the left posterior region of the fusiform gyrus and left inferior frontal cortex was modulated by word-pair relationship. Semantically related pairs yielded less activity than unrelated pairs, but greater activity than identical pairs, mirroring the pattern of behavioral facilitation as measured by word reading times. These findings provide strong support for the involvement of these areas in the automatic processing of object meaning. In addition, words referring to animate objects produced greater activity in the lateral region of the fusiform gyri, right superior temporal sulcus, and medial region of the occipital lobe relative to manmade, manipulable objects, whereas words referring to manmade, manipulable objects produced greater activity in the left ventral premotor, left anterior cingulate, and bilateral parietal cortices relative to animate objects. These findings are consistent with the dissociation between these areas based on sensory- and motor-related object properties, providing further evidence that conceptual object knowledge is housed, in part, in the same neural systems that subserve perception and action.}, }
@article {pmid16354808, year = {2005}, author = {Komar, N and Panella, NA and Langevin, SA and Brault, AC and Amador, M and Edwards, E and Owen, JC}, title = {Avian hosts for West Nile virus in St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana, 2002.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {73}, number = {6}, pages = {1031-1037}, pmid = {16354808}, issn = {0002-9637}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/classification/*virology ; *Disease Outbreaks ; Disease Reservoirs/classification/*virology ; Encephalitis, Viral/*epidemiology/etiology/transmission/virology ; Humans ; Louisiana/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/etiology/transmission/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) infections in free-ranging birds were studied in Slidell, St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana, after a human encephalitis outbreak peaked there in July 2002. Seroprevalence in resident, free-ranging wild birds in one suburban site was 25% and 24% in August and October, respectively, indicating that most transmission had ceased by early August. Mortality rates, seroprevalence rates, host competence, and crude population estimates were used in mathematical models to predict actual infection rates, population impacts, and importance as amplifying hosts for several common passerine birds. Northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) and house sparrow (Passer domesticus) were the principal amplifying hosts, but blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata) and northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos) also contributed. The blue jay population was reduced by an estimated 47%. A variety of passerine bird species combined to play an important role as amplifying hosts in the WNV transmission cycle.}, }
@article {pmid16338748, year = {2005}, author = {Ramanathan, MP and Chambers, JA and Taylor, J and Korber, BT and Lee, MD and Nalca, A and Dang, K and Pankhong, P and Attatippaholkun, W and Weiner, DB}, title = {Expression and evolutionary analysis of West Nile virus (Merion strain).}, journal = {Journal of neurovirology}, volume = {11}, number = {6}, pages = {544-556}, pmid = {16338748}, issn = {1355-0284}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/virology ; Birds ; Cell Line ; Evolution, Molecular ; *Gene Expression Regulation, Viral ; Humans ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Open Reading Frames ; Phylogeny ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/veterinary/*virology ; West Nile virus/*classification/genetics/metabolism ; }, abstract = {The authors report a new strain of West Nile virus (WNV) with the expression analysis of its individual open reading frames. Since its sudden appearance in the summer of 1999 in New York City, the virus has spread rapidly across the continental United States into Canada and Mexico. Besides, its rapid transmission by various vectors, the spread of this virus through organ transplantation, blood transfusion, and mother-child transmission through breast milk is of concern. In order to understand molecular variations of WNV in North America and to generate new tools for understanding WNV biology, a complete clone of WNV has been constructed. Investigations so far have focused only on half of its genes products and a detailed molecular and cell biological aspects on all of WNV gene have yet to be clearly established. The open reading frames of WNV were recovered through an reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-PCR using brain tissue from a dead crow collected in Merion, PA, and cloned into a mammalian expression vector. The deduced amino acid sequences of individual open reading frames were analyzed to determine various structural motifs and functional domains. Expression analysis shows that in neuronal cells, C, NS1, and NS5 proteins are nuclear localized whereas the rest of the antigens are confined to the cytoplasm when they are expressed in the absence of other viral antigens. This is the first report that provides an expression analysis as well as intracellular distribution pattern for all of WNV gene products, cloned from an infected bird. Evolutionary analysis of Merion strain sequences indicates that this strain is distinct phylogenetically from the previously reported WNV strains.}, }
@article {pmid16337307, year = {2006}, author = {Andersen, BM and Rasch, M and Hochlin, K and Jensen, FH and Wismar, P and Fredriksen, JE}, title = {Decontamination of rooms, medical equipment and ambulances using an aerosol of hydrogen peroxide disinfectant.}, journal = {The Journal of hospital infection}, volume = {62}, number = {2}, pages = {149-155}, pmid = {16337307}, issn = {0195-6701}, mesh = {Aerosols ; *Ambulances ; Bacillus/drug effects/isolation &amp; purification/physiology ; Construction Materials ; Decontamination/*methods ; Disinfectants/*pharmacology ; Equipment Contamination/prevention &amp; control ; *Equipment and Supplies ; Hydrogen Peroxide/*pharmacology ; Spores, Bacterial/drug effects/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {A programmable device (Sterinis, Gloster Sante Europe) providing a dry fume of 5% hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) disinfectant was tested for decontamination of rooms, ambulances and different types of medical equipment. Pre-set concentrations were used according to the volumes of the rooms and garages. Three cycles were performed with increasing contact times. Repetitive experiments were performed using Bacillus atrophaeus (formerly Bacillus subtilis) Raven 1162282 spores to control the effect of decontamination; after a sampling plan, spore strips were placed in various positions in rooms, ambulances, and inside and outside the items of medical equipment. Decontamination was effective in 87% of 146 spore tests in closed test rooms and in 100% of 48 tests in a surgical department when using three cycles. One or two cycles had no effect. The sporicidal effect on internal parts of the medical equipment was only 62.3% (220 tests). When the devices were run and ventilated during decontamination, 100% (57/57) of spore strips placed inside were decontaminated. In the ambulances, the penetration of H(2)O(2) into equipment, devices, glove boxes, under mattresses, and the drivers' cabins was 100% (60/60 tests) when using three cycles, but was less effective when using one or two cycles. In conclusion, an H(2)O(2) dry fumigation system, run in three cycles, seemed to have a good sporicidal effect when used in rooms, ambulances, and external and internal parts of ventilated equipment. Further studies need to be performed concerning concentration, contact time and the number of cycles of H(2)O(2). This is especially important for inner parts of medical equipment that cannot be ventilated during the decontamination process.}, }
@article {pmid16336883, year = {2005}, author = {Carruthers, A and Carruthers, J}, title = {Single-center, double-blind, randomized study to evaluate the efficacy of 4% lidocaine cream versus vehicle cream during botulinum toxin type A treatments.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {31}, number = {12}, pages = {1655-1659}, doi = {10.2310/6350.2005.31304}, pmid = {16336883}, issn = {1076-0512}, mesh = {Administration, Topical ; Adult ; *Anesthetics, Local ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/adverse effects ; Double-Blind Method ; Emollients ; Female ; Humans ; Injections, Intradermal/*adverse effects ; *Lidocaine ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/adverse effects ; Pain/etiology/*prevention &amp; control ; *Pharmaceutical Vehicles ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) injections are overwhelmingly safe and effective treatment in cosmetic treatment, but some patients are apprehensive about pain associated with injection.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To determine whether preprocedural application of lidocaine 4% topical anesthetic cream to the injection site will reduce pain on injection of BTX-A for the treatment of crow's feet.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty-four participants receiving bilateral injections for crow's feet were enrolled. Subjects were randomized to one of four study groups. Prior to BTX-A injection, group 1 (n = 6) received lidocaine 4% cream on the right side of the face and vehicle cream on the left side of the face; group 2 (n = 6) received vehicle cream on the right side and lidocaine 4% on the left side; group 3 (n = 6) received lidocaine 4% on both sides; and group 4 (n = 6) received vehicle cream on both sides.<br><br>RESULTS: We observed a statistically significant reduction in subject-reported procedural pain in participants pretreated with lidocaine 4% on both sides of the face compared with controls.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Lidocaine 4% cream is effective in reducing the pain associated with BTX-A injection for crow's feet. We encourage further study to clarify the optimal use of topical anesthetics in the practice of cosmetic dermatology.}, }
@article {pmid16333182, year = {2005}, author = {Naik, MN and Soparkar, CN and Murthy, R and Honavar, SG}, title = {Botulinum toxin in ophthalmic plastic surgery.}, journal = {Indian journal of ophthalmology}, volume = {53}, number = {4}, pages = {279-288}, doi = {10.4103/0301-4738.18915}, pmid = {16333182}, issn = {0301-4738}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins/*therapeutic use ; Humans ; *Ophthalmologic Surgical Procedures ; *Plastic Surgery Procedures ; }, abstract = {Botulinum toxin chemodenervation has evolved greatly over the past 30 years since its introduction in the 1970s for the management of strabismus. Among ophthalmic plastic surgeons, botulinum toxins are often used as the first line treatment for facial dystonias. These toxins are also efficacious for the temporary management of various other conditions including keratopathies (through so called chemo-tarsorraphy), upper eyelid retraction, orbicularis overaction-induced lower eyelid entropion, gustatory epiphora, Frey's syndrome, and dynamic facial rhytids such as lateral canthal wrinkles (crow's feet), glabellar creases and horizontal forehead lines. This article describes the pharmacology, reconstitution techniques and common current applications of botulinum toxins in ophthalmic plastic surgery.}, }
@article {pmid16330225, year = {2006}, author = {Scotter, AJ and Kuntz, DA and Saul, M and Graham, LA and Davies, PL and Rose, DR}, title = {Expression and purification of sea raven type II antifreeze protein from Drosophila melanogaster S2 cells.}, journal = {Protein expression and purification}, volume = {47}, number = {2}, pages = {374-383}, doi = {10.1016/j.pep.2005.10.028}, pmid = {16330225}, issn = {1046-5928}, mesh = {Animals ; Antifreeze Proteins, Type II/*biosynthesis/*isolation &amp; purification ; Cell Line ; Chromatography, Affinity ; Drosophila melanogaster ; Protein Precursors/*biosynthesis/*isolation &amp; purification ; Recombinant Proteins/*biosynthesis/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {We present a system for the expression and purification of recombinant sea raven type II antifreeze protein, a cysteine-rich, C-type lectin-like globular protein that has proved to be a difficult target for recombinant expression and purification. The cDNAs encoding the pro- and mature forms of the sea raven protein were cloned into a modified pMT Drosophila expression vector. These constructs produced N-terminally His(6)-tagged pro- and mature forms of the type II antifreeze protein under the control of a metallothionein promoter when transfected into Drosophila melanogaster S2 cells. Upon induction of stable cell lines the two proteins were expressed at high levels and secreted into the medium. The proteins were then purified from the cell medium in a simple and rapid protocol using immobilized metal affinity chromatography and specific protease cleavage by tobacco etch virus protease. The proteins demonstrated antifreeze activity indistinguishable from that of wild-type sea raven antifreeze protein purified from serum as illustrated by ice affinity purification, ice crystal morphology, and their ability to inhibit ice crystal growth. This expression and purification system gave yields of 95 mg/L of fully active mature sea raven type II AFP and 9.6 mg/L of the proprotein. This surpasses all previous attempts to express this protein in Escherichia coli, baculovirus-infected fall armyworm cells and Pichia pastoris and will provide sufficient protein for structural analysis.}, }
@article {pmid16329278, year = {2005}, author = {Gilbert, R and Henderson, S}, title = {Catheter specimens of urine: an audit of practice.}, journal = {Nursing times}, volume = {101}, number = {47}, pages = {56, 58, 60-1}, pmid = {16329278}, issn = {0954-7762}, mesh = {Bacteriuria/diagnosis/etiology ; *Catheters, Indwelling/adverse effects ; Humans ; *Nursing Audit ; *Specimen Handling ; *Urine ; }, abstract = {Catheterisation is an established procedure and is usually performed by nurses (Bissett, 2005). According to Crow et al (1988) 10-12 per cent of hospital patients have an indwelling urinary catheter for short- to medium-term use (up to 28 days). Up to 80 per cent of urine infections (bacteriuria) are associated with the use of indwelling urinary catheters (Pinkerman, 1994; DoH, 2003).}, }
@article {pmid16325023, year = {2006}, author = {Kurt, M and Bekçi, B and Karakaş, S}, title = {Hormone replacement therapy and cognitive function in postmenopausal women.}, journal = {Maturitas}, volume = {53}, number = {1}, pages = {39-48}, doi = {10.1016/j.maturitas.2005.02.008}, pmid = {16325023}, issn = {0378-5122}, mesh = {Cognition/*drug effects ; Estradiol/blood ; *Estrogen Replacement Therapy ; Female ; Humans ; Logistic Models ; Memory/drug effects ; Middle Aged ; Multivariate Analysis ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Orientation/drug effects ; Postmenopause/drug effects/*physiology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The study investigated the effect of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) on cognitive processes in healthy, naturally postmenopausal women.<br><br>METHOD: Participants were 64 volunteer postmenopausal women (27 in HRT, 37 in non-HRT group). Groups were matched for age, level of education and postmenopausal period. Duration of HRT was more than 12 months. Cognitive processes were measured through 44 scores obtained from Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised, Line Orientation Test, Cancellation Test and Raven Standard Progressive Matrices. All of these tests had been studied with respect to their psychometric properties in the Turkish culture [for review, Karaka&#x15f; S. BILNOT battery: research and development of neuropsychological tests. Ankara, Turkey: Dizayn Ofset; 2004].<br><br>RESULTS: Multivariate analysis of variance was performed where HRT and estradiol level were predictive (independent) variables and test scores were predicted (dependent) variables. The studied variables did not have a significant effect on a broad spectrum of neuropsychological scores that measured immediate and delayed visual and verbal memory, visuospatial perception and orientation, sustained attention/vigilance, visual search and scan, impulsivity and response speed, executive functions and general intelligence. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated a prediction rate of 86.89% of HRT status; the model was, however, based on four scores whose scientific relevance could not at this point be ascertained.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The research design of the present observational study applied control techniques to demographic (age, level of education), menopausal (length of menopausal period, duration of HRT), and hormonal variables. The cognitive changes that some studies found concerning the effect of replacement therapy could not be found when the potentially confounding variables were thus controlled.}, }
@article {pmid16323200, year = {2006}, author = {Budnik, A and Liczbińska, G}, title = {Urban and rural differences in mortality and causes of death in historical Poland.}, journal = {American journal of physical anthropology}, volume = {129}, number = {2}, pages = {294-304}, doi = {10.1002/ajpa.20288}, pmid = {16323200}, issn = {0002-9483}, mesh = {*Cause of Death ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Life Expectancy ; *Life Tables ; *Mortality ; Poland ; Rural Population/*history/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Selection, Genetic ; Urban Population/*history/statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this paper is to document and interpret urban-rural differences in mortality in the past. To this end, we used data on mortality in Wielkopolska, Poland, in the 19th century and at the beginning of the 20th century. The data on mortality in rural areas (N = 1,173,910 deceased), small towns (N = 573,903 deceased), and Poznań, the capital of the Wielkopolska region (N = 86,352 deceased), were gathered from original Prussian statistical yearbooks (Preussische Statistik). Causes of death were also analyzed (rural areas, N = 449,576 deceased; small towns, N = 238,365 deceased; Poznań, N = 61,512 deceased). Mortality measures such as crude death rate (CDR), infant death rate (IDR), and neonatal and postneonatal death rates were calculated. Life tables were constructed for both stationary and stable population models and measures of the opportunity for natural selection calculated (Crow's index I(m), potential gross reproduction rate R(pot), and biological state index I(bs)). Relative frequencies of leading causes of death were computed. Stratification depending on the place of residence was evident in all mortality measures as well as in the values of the life tables and the measures of the opportunity for natural selection, but it was reverse of what is observed today in developed countries. In Poznań (a large industrial city), the mortality situation was the least favorable. It was caused by large population density, lack of water supply and sewage systems (up to 1896), and bad working conditions. The values of CDR ranged between 26.89-31.46, and IDR between 190.6-280.5. Newborn life expectancy (for a stable population model) was 31.6 years, I(m) = 0.79, R(pot) = 0.85, and I(bs) = 0.47. The most common causes of death were tuberculosis, other diseases of the respiratory and circulatory systems, dysentery and diarrhea, and cancer. These diseases were less common in rural areas, so they had the most favorable values of mortality measures (CDR between 22.87-27.32, IDR between 181.8-219.4, life expectancy of newborn e(0) = 42.12, I(m) = 0.55, R(pot) = 0.93, I(bs) = 0.60). Infectious diseases (other than tuberculosis), frailty at birth, and frailty in old age were the most frequent causes of death in rural areas. Small towns (population <20,000) had a mortality intermediate between city and rural areas.}, }
@article {pmid16318736, year = {2005}, author = {Stone, WB and Therrien, JE and Benson, R and Kramer, L and Kauffman, EB and Eldson, M and Campbell, S}, title = {Assays to detect West Nile virus in dead birds.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {11}, number = {11}, pages = {1770-1773}, pmid = {16318736}, issn = {1080-6040}, support = {U50/CCU 223671/CC/ODCDC CDC HHS/United States ; U90.CCU 216988/CC/ODCDC CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antigens, Viral/analysis ; Bird Diseases/*diagnosis/virology ; Birds/*virology ; Brain/virology ; Columbiformes/virology ; Galliformes/virology ; Mouth/virology ; Passeriformes/virology ; *Reagent Kits, Diagnostic ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Specimen Handling/methods ; West Nile Fever/diagnosis/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Using oral swab samples to detect West Nile virus in dead birds, we compared the Rapid Analyte Measurement Platform (RAMP) assay with VecTest and real-time reverse-transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. The sensitivities of RAMP and VecTest for testing corvid species were 91.0% and 82.1%, respectively.}, }
@article {pmid16318713, year = {2005}, author = {Panella, NA and Burkhalter, KL and Langevin, SA and Brault, AC and Schooley, LM and Biggerstaff, BJ and Nasci, RS and Komar, N}, title = {Rapid West Nile virus antigen detection.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {11}, number = {10}, pages = {1633-1635}, pmid = {16318713}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Animals ; Antigens, Viral/*analysis ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Crows ; *Reagent Kits, Diagnostic ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Sparrows ; Specimen Handling/methods ; Time Factors ; Viral Plaque Assay ; West Nile Fever/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {We compared the VecTest WNV antigen assay with standard methods of West Nile virus (WNV) detection in swabs from American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and House Sparrows (Passer domesticus). The VecTest detected WNV more frequently than the plaque assay and was comparable to a TaqMan reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction.}, }
@article {pmid16314590, year = {2005}, author = {Lawlor, DA and O'Callaghan, MJ and Mamun, AA and Williams, GM and Bor, W and Najman, JM}, title = {Socioeconomic position, cognitive function, and clustering of cardiovascular risk factors in adolescence: findings from the Mater University Study of Pregnancy and its outcomes.}, journal = {Psychosomatic medicine}, volume = {67}, number = {6}, pages = {862-868}, doi = {10.1097/01.psy.0000188576.54698.36}, pmid = {16314590}, issn = {1534-7796}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adolescent Behavior/*psychology ; Age Factors ; Child ; Cluster Analysis ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Cohort Studies ; Comorbidity ; Coronary Disease/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Hypertension/epidemiology ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Obesity/epidemiology ; Pregnancy ; *Pregnancy Outcome ; Prevalence ; Prospective Studies ; Risk Factors ; Smoking/epidemiology ; *Social Class ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study were to examine the extent of clustering of smoking, high levels of television watching, overweight, and high blood pressure among adolescents and whether this clustering varies by socioeconomic position and cognitive function.<br><br>METHODS: This study was a cross-sectional analysis of 3613 (1742 females) participants of an Australian birth cohort who were examined at age 14.<br><br>RESULTS: Three hundred fifty-three (9.8%) of the participants had co-occurrence of three or four risk factors. Risk factors clustered in these adolescents with a greater number of participants than would be predicted by assumptions of independence having no risk factors and three or four risk factors. The extent of clustering tended to be greater in those from lower-income families and among those with lower cognitive function. The age-adjusted ratio of observed to expected co-occurrence of three or four risk factors was 2.70 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.80-4.06) among those from low-income families and 1.70 (95% CI, 1.34-2.16) among those from more affluent families. The ratio among those with low Raven's scores (nonverbal reasoning) was 2.36 (95% CI, 1.69-3.30) and among those with higher scores was 1.51 (95% CI, 1.19-1.92); similar results for the WRAT 3 score (reading ability) were 2.69 (95% CI, 1.85-3.94) and 1.68 (95% CI, 1.34-2.11). Clustering did not differ by sex.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Among adolescents, coronary heart disease risk factors cluster, and there is some evidence that this clustering is greater among those from families with low income and those who have lower cognitive function.}, }
@article {pmid16306307, year = {2006}, author = {Johnson, GD and Eidson, M and Schmit, K and Ellis, A and Kulldorff, M}, title = {Geographic prediction of human onset of West Nile virus using dead crow clusters: an evaluation of year 2002 data in New York State.}, journal = {American journal of epidemiology}, volume = {163}, number = {2}, pages = {171-180}, doi = {10.1093/aje/kwj023}, pmid = {16306307}, issn = {0002-9262}, support = {N01-A1-25490//PHS HHS/United States ; U50/CCU223671/CC/ODCDC CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/virology ; Cluster Analysis ; *Crows ; Disease Reservoirs ; Humans ; New York/epidemiology ; Poisson Distribution ; Population Surveillance ; Proportional Hazards Models ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {The risk of becoming a West Nile virus case in New York State, excluding New York City, was evaluated for persons whose town of residence was proximal to spatial clusters of dead American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos). Weekly clusters were delineated for June-October 2002 by using both the binomial spatial scan statistic and kernel density smoothing. The relative risk of a human case was estimated for different spatial-temporal exposure definitions after adjusting for population density and age distribution using Poisson regression, adjusting for week and geographic region, and conducting Cox proportional hazards modeling, where the week that a human case was identified was treated as the failure time and baseline hazard was stratified by region. The risk of becoming a West Nile virus case was positively associated with living in towns proximal to dead crow clusters. The highest risk was consistently for towns associated with a cluster in the current or prior 1-2 weeks. Weaker, but positive associations were found for towns associated with a cluster in just the 1-2 prior weeks, indicating an ability to predict onset in a timely fashion.}, }
@article {pmid16304404, year = {2005}, author = {Dispenzieri, A}, title = {POEMS Syndrome.}, journal = {Hematology. American Society of Hematology. Education Program}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {360-367}, doi = {10.1182/asheducation-2005.1.360}, pmid = {16304404}, issn = {1520-4383}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adrenal Cortex Hormones/therapeutic use ; Age of Onset ; Bone and Bones/pathology ; Castleman Disease/complications/pathology ; Child ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Humans ; POEMS Syndrome/complications/pathology/*physiopathology/therapy ; Prognosis ; Sclerosis/pathology ; Stem Cell Transplantation ; Survival Analysis ; gamma-Globulins/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {POEMS syndrome is defined by the presence of a peripheral neuropathy (P), a monoclonal plasma cell disorder (M), and other paraneoplastic features, the most common of which include organomegaly (O), endocrinopathy (E), skin changes (S), papilledema, edema, effusions, ascites, and thrombocytosis. Virtually all patients will have either sclerotic bone lesion(s) or co-existent Castleman's disease. Not all features of the disease are required to make the diagnosis, and early recognition is important to reduce morbidity. Other names for the syndrome include osteosclerotic myeloma, Crow-Fukase syndrome, or Takatsuki syndrome. Because the peripheral neuropathy is frequently the overriding symptom and because the characteristics of the neuropathy are similar to that chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), patients are frequently misdiagnosed with CIDP or monoclonal gammopathy of underdetermined significance (MGUS)-associated peripheral neuropathy. Not until additional features of the POEMS syndrome are recognized is the correct diagnosis made and effective therapies initiated. Clues to an early diagnosis include thrombocytosis and sclerotic bone lesions on plain skeletal radiographs. Therapies that may be effective in patients with CIDP and MGUS-associated peripheral neuropathy (intravenous gammaglobulin and plasmapheresis) are not effective in patients with POEMS. Instead, the mainstays of therapy for patients with POEMS include irradiation, corticosteroids, and alkylator-based therapy, including high-dose chemotherapy with peripheral blood stem cell transplantation.}, }
@article {pmid16300442, year = {2005}, author = {Pravosudov, VV and Lavenex, P and Omanska, A}, title = {Nutritional deficits during early development affect hippocampal structure and spatial memory later in life.}, journal = {Behavioral neuroscience}, volume = {119}, number = {5}, pages = {1368-1374}, doi = {10.1037/0735-7044.119.5.1368}, pmid = {16300442}, issn = {0735-7044}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Association Learning/physiology ; Behavior, Animal ; Birds ; Body Mass Index ; Chi-Square Distribution ; Hippocampus/*growth &amp; development/*physiopathology ; Malnutrition/*physiopathology ; Memory/*physiology ; Spatial Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Development rates vary among individuals, often as a result of direct competition for food. Survival of young might depend on their learning abilities, but it remains unclear whether learning abilities are affected by nutrition during development. The authors demonstrated that compared with controls, 1-year-old Western scrub jays (Aphelocoma californica) that experienced nutritional deficits during early posthatching development had smaller hippocampi with fewer neurons and performed worse in a cache recovery task and in a spatial version of an associative learning task. In contrast, performance of nutritionally deprived birds was similar to that of controls in 2 color versions of an associative learning task. These findings suggest that nutritional deficits during early development have long-term consequences for hippocampal structure and spatial memory, which, in turn, are likely to have a strong impact on animals' future fitness.}, }
@article {pmid16286088, year = {2005}, author = {Dandelot, S and Matheron, R and Le Petit, J and Verlaque, R and Cazaubon, A}, title = {[Temporal variations of physicochemical and microbiological parameters in three freshwater ecosystems (southeastern France) invaded by Ludwigia spp].}, journal = {Comptes rendus biologies}, volume = {328}, number = {10-11}, pages = {991-999}, doi = {10.1016/j.crvi.2005.09.007}, pmid = {16286088}, issn = {1631-0691}, mesh = {Bacteria/metabolism ; Chemical Phenomena ; Chemistry, Physical ; *Ecosystem ; France ; *Fresh Water ; Onagraceae/chemistry/*physiology ; Seasons ; Sulfates/metabolism ; Water Microbiology ; }, abstract = {In France, two amphibious hydrophytes of alien Ludwigia (Onagraceae) have for about the past twenty years been causing serious ecological and economic problems: L. peploides (Kunth) Raven et L. grandiflora (Michaux) Greuter &amp; Burdet. This bacteriological and physicochemical study, focused on three different Mediterranean aquatic ecosystems, reveals, for the first time, a direct negative impact of these American invaders. During summer, while plant growth is intensive, and the appearance in the water column of anoxic conditions and production of toxic compounds may be observed, notably in L. grandiflora stands. The toxicity is linked to a proliferation of sulphate-reducing bacteria producing sulphides that are very harmful for aquatic organisms.}, }
@article {pmid16258301, year = {2005}, author = {Farkas, LG and Katic, MJ and Forrest, CR}, title = {Anthropometric proportion indices in the craniofacial regions of 73 patients with forms of isolated coronal synostosis.}, journal = {Annals of plastic surgery}, volume = {55}, number = {5}, pages = {495-499}, doi = {10.1097/01.sap.0000182656.59384.a2}, pmid = {16258301}, issn = {0148-7043}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Anthropometry ; Craniofacial Dysostosis/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Male ; Plastic Surgery Procedures/*methods ; }, abstract = {The study group consisted of 73 North American patients (29 males and 44 females), aged between 0-5 months and 20 years, 26 with right, 33 with left, and 14 with bicoronal synostosis. Basic proportion indices were established in 5 craniofacial regions (cranial, facial, orbital, nasal, oral) calculated from 2 projective measurements [cranial: eu-eu, g-op; facial: n-gn, zy-zy; orbital: en-en, ex-ex; nasal: al-al, n-sn; oral: sn-sto, ch-ch (eu, eurion; g, glabella; op, opisthocranion; n, nasion; gn, gnathion; zy, zygion; en, endocanthion; ex, exocanthion; al, alare; sn, subnasale; sto, stomion; ch, chelion)] taken from the patients by the first author before surgery. These data were then compared with the anthropometric norms established for North American whites (Farkas LG. Anthropometry of the Head and Face. 2nd ed. Raven Press; 1994). In males, the total percentage of normal, subnormal, and supernormal proportion indices was smaller than in females in all 3 groups of patients. Generally, the difference in percentage between normal proportions was the smallest (13.1%) and the supernormal one the greatest (68%). In males, the oral measurements showed the highest frequency of normal proportions (100%) in all 3 patient groups, and the cephalic index the lowest (60%-66.7%). Among the abnormal proportions, the supernormal ones were found more often, especially in the cranial region of females with bilateral coronal synostosis (66.7%). Subnormal proportion indices were rare: none were seen in the facial region of males. A subnormal cephalic index (eu-eu/g-op) was not present in either sex in right and bicoronal synostosis and was observed in only 2 males with left coronal synostosis (13.3%). The study showed that the influence of synostosis gradually decreased from the top to the bottom of the face, with the oral region showing no abnormalities.}, }
@article {pmid16246638, year = {2006}, author = {Harpending, H and Cochran, G}, title = {Genetic diversity and genetic burden in humans.}, journal = {Infection, genetics and evolution : journal of molecular epidemiology and evolutionary genetics in infectious diseases}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {154-162}, doi = {10.1016/j.meegid.2005.04.002}, pmid = {16246638}, issn = {1567-1348}, mesh = {Alleles ; Evolution, Molecular ; *Genetic Predisposition to Disease ; *Genetic Variation ; Genetics, Population ; Heterozygote ; Homozygote ; Humans ; Mutation ; Polymorphism, Genetic ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {We discuss categories of genetic diversity in humans. Neutral diversity, population differences in frequencies of genetic markers that we think are invisible to natural selection, provides a passive record of population history but is otherwise of little interest in human biology. Genetic variation related to disease can be separated into mutational noise and variation due to selection, either ongoing selection else effects of a past environment. We distinguish consequences of genetic diversity for fitness, relevant to evolution, and consequences for well-being, relevant to medicine and public health. We call genetic variation that causes impairment of health or well-being of individual humans "apparent genetic burden" and variation that has effects on fitness but not well-being "unapparent genetic burden". We use "burden" to distinguish these notions from the classical concept of "genetic load" that refers to effects on population fitness, a concept formulated by Morton et al. [Morton, N.E., Crow, J.F., Muller, H.J., 1956. An estimate of the mutational damage in man from data on consanguineous marriages. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 42, 855-863]. We distinguish adapted genes and adapted genotypes: an adapted gene is a gene that increases fitness of its bearer either in heterozygous or homozygous state or both, while an adapted genotype is a genotype that increases fitness of its bearer but is not transmitted intact to future generations. Balanced polymorphisms in which the heterozygote is superior in fitness may generate most adapted genotypes. In the face of major rapid environmental change adapted genotypes appear first but over time they are replaced by adapted genes. The presence of adapted genotypes is a good indication of recent environmental change: for example, there are apparently many polymorphisms in domestic animals of this nature, responses to domestication, and many fewer in wild animals (and in humans).}, }
@article {pmid16244075, year = {2005}, author = {Kwon, YK and Joh, SJ and Kim, MC and Lee, YJ and Choi, JG and Lee, EK and Wee, SH and Sung, HW and Kwon, JH and Kang, MI and Kim, JH}, title = {Highly pathogenic avian influenza in magpies (Pica pica sericea) in South Korea.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {41}, number = {3}, pages = {618-623}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-41.3.618}, pmid = {16244075}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Chickens ; Immunohistochemistry/veterinary ; Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/*isolation &amp; purification/*pathogenicity ; Influenza in Birds/*epidemiology/*mortality ; Injections, Intravenous/veterinary ; Korea/epidemiology ; Liver/pathology/virology ; Pancreas/pathology/virology ; *Songbirds ; Specific Pathogen-Free Organisms ; Spleen/pathology/virology ; Virulence ; }, abstract = {Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is an extremely infectious, systemic viral disease of birds that produces high mortality and morbidity. HPAI was diagnosed in the three dead magpies (Pica pica sericea) submitted to the National Veterinary Research and Quarantine Service. At necropsy, the prominent lesions were multifocal or coalescing necrosis of the pancreas with enlargement of the livers and spleens. Microscopically, there were severely necrotizing pancreatitis and lymphocytic meningoencephalitis. Influenza viral antigen was also detected in areas closely associated with histologic lesions. Avian influenza virus was isolated from cecal tonsils and feces of the magpies. The isolated virus was identified as a highly pathogenic H5N1, with hemagglutinin proteolytic cleavage site deduced amino acid sequence of QREKRKKR/GLFGAIAG. To determine the pathogenicity of the isolate, eight 6-wk-old specific-pathogen-free chickens were inoculated intravenously with the virus, and all birds died within 24 hr after inoculation. This is the first report of HPAI in magpies.}, }
@article {pmid16243374, year = {2006}, author = {Ramanathan, MP and Chambers, JA and Pankhong, P and Chattergoon, M and Attatippaholkun, W and Dang, K and Shah, N and Weiner, DB}, title = {Host cell killing by the West Nile Virus NS2B-NS3 proteolytic complex: NS3 alone is sufficient to recruit caspase-8-based apoptotic pathway.}, journal = {Virology}, volume = {345}, number = {1}, pages = {56-72}, doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2005.08.043}, pmid = {16243374}, issn = {0042-6822}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; *Apoptosis ; Caspase 8 ; Caspases/*metabolism ; Cell Line ; Cell Membrane/pathology/ultrastructure ; Cell Nucleus/pathology/ultrastructure ; Crows/virology ; DNA Helicases/genetics/physiology ; Enzyme Inhibitors/pharmacology ; Gene Silencing ; Humans ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Peptide Hydrolases/genetics/physiology ; Protein Structure, Tertiary/genetics/physiology ; RNA, Small Interfering/metabolism ; Transfection ; Vacuoles/pathology/ultrastructure ; Viral Nonstructural Proteins/genetics/*physiology ; West Nile Fever/veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/isolation &amp; purification/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The West Nile Virus (WNV) non-structural proteins 2B and 3 (NS2B-NS3) constitute the proteolytic complex that mediates the cleavage and processing of the viral polyprotein. NS3 recruits NS2B and NS5 proteins to direct protease and replication activities. In an effort to investigate the biology of the viral protease, we cloned cDNA encoding the NS2B-NS3 proteolytic complex from brain tissue of a WNV-infected dead crow, collected from the Lower Merion area (Merion strain). Expression of the NS2B-NS3 gene cassette induced apoptosis within 48 h of transfection. Electron microscopic analysis of NS2B-NS3-transfected cells revealed ultra-structural changes that are typical of apoptotic cells including membrane blebbing, nuclear disintegration and cytoplasmic vacuolations. The role of NS3 or NS2B in contributing to host cell apoptosis was examined. NS3 alone triggers the apoptotic pathways involving caspases-8 and -3. Experimental results from the use of caspase-specific inhibitors and caspase-8 siRNA demonstrated that the activation of caspase-8 was essential to initiate apoptotic signaling in NS3-expressing cells. Downstream of caspase-3 activation, we observed nuclear membrane ruptures and cleavage of the DNA-repair enzyme, PARP in NS3-expressing cells. Nuclear herniations due to NS3 expression were absent in the cells treated with a caspase-3 inhibitor. Expression of protease and helicase domains themselves was sufficient to trigger apoptosis generating insight into the apoptotic pathways triggered by NS3 from WNV.}, }
@article {pmid16229775, year = {2005}, author = {Ohajuruka, OA and Berry, RL and Grimes, S and Farkas, S}, title = {West Nile Virus detection in kidney, cloacal, and nasopharyngeal specimens.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {11}, number = {9}, pages = {1437-1439}, pmid = {16229775}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Animals ; Cloaca/*virology ; Crows/*virology ; False Negative Reactions ; Kidney/*virology ; Linear Models ; Nasopharynx/*virology ; Ohio ; Population Surveillance/methods ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; West Nile virus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {We compared kidney tissue samples and cloacal and nasopharyngeal swab samples from field-collected dead crows and blue jays for West Nile virus surveillance. Compared to tissue samples, 35% more swab samples were false negative. Swab samples were usually positive only when the corresponding tissue sample was strongly positive.}, }
@article {pmid16229764, year = {2005}, author = {Eidson, M and Schmit, K and Hagiwara, Y and Anand, M and Backenson, PB and Gotham, I and Kramer, L}, title = {Dead crow density and West Nile virus monitoring, New York.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {11}, number = {9}, pages = {1370-1375}, pmid = {16229764}, issn = {1080-6040}, support = {U50/CCU223671//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*virology ; Environmental Monitoring/*methods ; Epidemiological Monitoring ; Humans ; New York/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {New York State used the health commerce system to monitor the number of West Nile virus (WNV) human disease cases and the density of dead crows. In each year from 2001 to 2003 and for the 3 years combined, persons living in New York counties (excluding New York City) with elevated weekly dead crow densities (above a threshold value of 0.1 dead crows per square mile) had higher risk (2.0-8.6 times) for disease caused by WNV within the next 2 weeks than residents of counties reporting fewer dead crows per square mile. This type of index can offer a real-time, relatively inexpensive window into viral activity in time for prevention and control. Changes in reporting, bird populations, and immunity may require that thresholds other than 0.1 be used in later years or in other areas.}, }
@article {pmid16226849, year = {2006}, author = {Stephens, DW and McLinn, CM and Stevens, JR}, title = {Effects of temporal clumping and payoff accumulation on impulsiveness and cooperation.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {71}, number = {1}, pages = {29-40}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2005.09.003}, pmid = {16226849}, issn = {0376-6357}, support = {R01-MH64151-01/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Birds ; *Cooperative Behavior ; Impulsive Behavior/*psychology ; *Play and Playthings ; Reward ; Social Behavior ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Animals show impulsiveness when they prefer a smaller more immediate option, even though a larger more delayed option produces a higher intake rate. This impulsive behavior has implications for several behavioral problems including social cooperation. This paper presents two experiments using captive blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) that consider the effects of payoff accumulation and temporal clumping on impulsiveness and cooperation. Payoff accumulation refers to a situation where the benefits gained from each choice trial accumulate from one trial to the next, and only become available to the animal after it has completed a fixed number of trials. We hypothesized that this would reduce impulsiveness because it removes the advantage of quickly realizing food gains. Clumping refers to situation in which the animal experiences several choice trials in quick succession followed by a long pause before the next clump. We hypothesized that if payoffs accumulated over a clump of trials this would enhance the effect of accumulation. We tested the effects of accumulation and clumping on impulsiveness in a self-control situation. We found a significant interaction between clumping and accumulation. Payoff accumulation reduced impulsiveness, but only when trials were clumped. Post hoc analyses suggest that clumping alone increases impulsiveness. A second experiment applied these results to cooperation. This experiment reveals an interaction between payoff accumulation and trial's position within the clump. Jays were more likely to cooperate on the first trial of a clump, but the likelihood of cooperation dropped after the first trial. However, this drop was larger when payoffs did not accumulate. This observation suggests that the difference between accumulated and un-accumulated treatments that we reported previously may be largely due to differences in how animals behave in the first trial of a clump.}, }
@article {pmid16222349, year = {2005}, author = {, }, title = {General practitioners' perceptions of barriers to their provision of mental healthcare: a report on Mental Health and General Practice Investigation (MaGPIe).}, journal = {The New Zealand medical journal}, volume = {118}, number = {1222}, pages = {U1654}, pmid = {16222349}, issn = {1175-8716}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Distribution ; *Attitude of Health Personnel ; Confidentiality ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Education, Medical/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Educational Status ; Family Practice/economics/education/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Fees, Medical/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; Health Services Accessibility/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Disorders/*therapy ; Mental Health Services/economics/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Middle Aged ; New Zealand ; Patient Acceptance of Health Care/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Professional Practice/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Random Allocation ; Sex Distribution ; *Social Perception ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {AIM: To explore GP attitudes and perceptions of barriers to providing mental healthcare.<br><br>METHODS: The MaGPie study included a cross-sectional survey of a random sample of 78 GPs in the lower part of North Island, New Zealand. GPs completed a questionnaire about aspects of their provision of mental healthcare including consultation fees, perceived barriers to providing mental healthcare, and factors likely to increase detection of mental illness in general practice patients.<br><br>RESULTS: Seventy (90%) GPs completed the questionnaire. GPs reported that consultations with patients with mental health problems took longer and could lead to increased waiting times for other patients. Many GPs subsidised mental health consultations either by not charging for longer consultations or writing-off fees. GPs thought that funded longer consultation times and more training in interviewing techniques would increase recognition of mental health problems in general practice.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Structural aspects of general practice at the time of this survey presented a barrier to the provision of primary mental healthcare. The subsequent establishment of primary health organisations provides potential for improving primary mental healthcare through specific contracts for mental healthcare allowing variation in consultation length and the addition of mental health professionals to the general practice team.}, }
@article {pmid16220375, year = {1998}, author = {Lascoux, M and Lee, JK}, title = {One step beyond lethal equivalents: characterization of deleterious loci in the rapid cycling Brassica rapa L. base population.}, journal = {Genetica}, volume = {104}, number = {2}, pages = {161-170}, doi = {10.1023/A:1003441713325}, pmid = {16220375}, issn = {0016-6707}, abstract = {The total number of lethal equivalents as defined by Morton, Crow and Muller (1956) is a function of three parameters: M, the number of loci at which deleterious mutations can occur, q, the frequency of the deleterious alleles at each locus, and s, their selective value. A new approach based on multi-generation inbreeding data is outlined and used to infer these three parameters as well as the dominance coefficient, h, in a self-incompatible species, Brassica rapa L. Germination and flowering data from thirty bud-selfed lines of fast-cycling B.rapa were assessed over three generations. Germination and flowering were significantly postponed by inbreeding but germination and flowering success were not so strongly decreased. Estimates of the average s values were obtained but it was not possible to get separate estimates of M and q. For both characters, the average dominance coefficient was particularly low. The number of lethal equivalents at the zygotic level was around two for germination and three for flowering, which, owing to the self-incompatibility of B.rapa, is an unexpectedly low value. These results may be explained by past biparental inbreeding which in turn may have increased self-compatibility thus allowing the purging of more deleterious alleles than under strict self-incompatibility.}, }
@article {pmid16219995, year = {2006}, author = {Pravosudov, VV and de Kort, SR}, title = {Is the western scrub-jay (Aphelocoma californica) really an underdog among food-caching corvids when it comes to hippocampal volume and food caching propensity?.}, journal = {Brain, behavior and evolution}, volume = {67}, number = {1}, pages = {1-9}, doi = {10.1159/000088855}, pmid = {16219995}, issn = {0006-8977}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Body Weight/physiology ; Brain/anatomy &amp; histology/cytology/physiology ; Crows ; Hippocampus/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Predatory Behavior/*physiology ; Telencephalon/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; }, abstract = {Food caching has been linked to better performance on spatial memory tasks and enlarged hippocampal volume in both birds and mammals. Within food-caching birds, it has also been predicted that species less reliant on stored food should have inferior spatial memory and a smaller hippocampus compared to species that depend heavily on food caches. Several comparisons suggest that North American corvids have a significantly smaller hippocampus and overall brain volume compared to the Eurasian corvid species and that western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) have a smaller hippocampus compared to the more specialized Clark's nutcracker. Here we present the largest data set of scrub-jay brains and, in contrast to previous reports, show that relative to body mass western scrub-jays have a brain size similar to the largest brain size of Eurasian corvids. The relative hippocampal volume of scrub-jays is also among the largest of all investigated corvids. These findings may not be surprising considering that scrub-jays have been reported to have remarkable cognitive capacities such as episodic-like memory and experience projection. Our data suggest that many previously made assumptions about western scrub-jays as less specialized food hoarders might be an oversimplification and that simple categorization of species into specialized and non-specialized hoarders might not provide useful insights into the evolution of memory and the hippocampus.}, }
@article {pmid16210683, year = {2005}, author = {Christopher, S and McCormick, AK and Smith, A and Christopher, JC}, title = {Development of an interviewer training manual for a cervical health project on the Apsáalooke Reservation.}, journal = {Health promotion practice}, volume = {6}, number = {4}, pages = {414-422}, doi = {10.1177/1524839904268521}, pmid = {16210683}, issn = {1524-8399}, mesh = {Female ; Health Promotion/*organization &amp; administration ; Humans ; *Indians, North American ; Inservice Training/*methods ; *Interviews as Topic ; *Manuals as Topic ; Montana ; United States ; *Uterine Cervical Diseases/prevention &amp; control ; }, abstract = {This article describes strategies used to develop a survey interview training manual for use on the Apsáalooke (Crow Indian) Reservation and delineates how this process and product differed from those discussed in the extant literature on survey interview training. Working to ensure cultural appropriateness is especially important due to past research improprieties with Native American populations. This manual was developed as a part of a cervical health intervention program, Messengers for Health. Areas covered include goals of survey research, recruitment and enrollment, manner of the interviewer, nonverbal behavior, beginning the interview, and language use. Limitations of this work and suggestions for conducting survey research with Native American populations are also included.}, }
@article {pmid16205374, year = {2005}, author = {Hoek, J and Thiele, GM and Klassen, LW and Mandrekar, P and Zakhari, S and Cook, RT and Ray, NB and Happel, KI and Kolls, JK and Kovacs, EJ and Szab, G}, title = {RSA 2004: combined basic research satellite symposium-mechanisms of alcohol-mediated organ and tissue damage: inflammation and immunity and alcohol and mitochondrial metabolism: at the crossroads of life and death session one: alcohol, cellular and organ damage.}, journal = {Alcoholism, clinical and experimental research}, volume = {29}, number = {9}, pages = {1735-1743}, doi = {10.1097/01.alc.0000179313.64522.56}, pmid = {16205374}, issn = {0145-6008}, support = {AA-013275/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA-014405/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA-09598/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA12034/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA12034-S1/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AA08577/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antigen Presentation/drug effects ; Burns/immunology ; Cytokines/biosynthesis ; Dendritic Cells/drug effects/physiology ; Ethanol/*toxicity ; Female ; Humans ; Immune System/*drug effects ; Immunity, Innate/*drug effects ; Inflammation/*etiology ; Listeriosis/immunology ; Lung/immunology ; Macrophages/drug effects/immunology ; Male ; Sex Characteristics ; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/genetics ; }, abstract = {This article summarizes content proceedings of a satellite meeting held at the 2004 Research Society on Alcoholism Annual Scientific Meeting in Vancouver, Canada. The aim of the satellite conference was to facilitate the interaction of scientists investigating the mechanisms of alcohol-mediated organ or tissue damage, and enable the discussion and sharing of new ideas and concepts that may be common in each of the organs or tissues affected by chronic ethanol consumption. The original planned program on immunity was expanded to incorporate a session on a closely related topic "Alcohol and Mitochondrial Metabolism: At the Crossroads of Life and Death" organized by Dr. Jan Hoek and Dr. Sam Zakhari. The conference was arranged into four sessions: 1) Alcohol, Cellular and Organ Damage 2) Toll-like receptors and Organ Damage 3) Alcohol and Mitochondrial Metabolism: At the Crossroads of Life and Death and 4) Hepatitis virus and alcohol interactions in Immunity and Liver Disease. The keynote address was given by Dr. Bruce Beutler from the Scripps Institute on "TLRs in Inflammation and Immunity."The Combined Basic Research Satellite Symposium entitled, "Mechanisms of Alcohol-Mediated Organ and Tissue Damage: Inflammation and Immunity and Alcohol and Mitochondrial Metabolism: At the Crossroads of Life and Death" was convened at the 2004 Research Society on Alcoholism meeting in Vancouver, BC. Session One featured five speakers who discussed various aspects of the role of the immune system in initiating or exacerbating cellular and organ damage following alcohol consumption. The presentations were (1) Innate Immune responses of Alcohol-exposed mice and macrophage-like cells following infections with Listeria monocytogenes by Robert T. Cook 2) Alcohol, cytokines and host defense by Kyle Happel 3) Decreased antigen presentation and anergy induced by alcohol in myeloid dendritic cells by Pranoti Mandrekar 4) Transcriptional regulation of TNF-alpha in human monocytes by chronic ethanol: role of the cellular redox state by Jay Kolls 5) Estrogen and gender differences in inflammatory responses after alcohol and burn injury by Elizabeth Kovacs. This session highlighted the growing information on the role of pattern recognition molecules in alcohol-mediated tissue damage or dysfunction. The new techniques and ideas presented will be helpful in future studies in this area of research, and should result in some exciting avenues of study.}, }
@article {pmid16202093, year = {2005}, author = {Burg, TM and Gaston, AJ and Winker, K and Friesen, VL}, title = {Rapid divergence and postglacial colonization in western North American Steller's jays (Cyanocitta stelleri).}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {14}, number = {12}, pages = {3745-3755}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2005.02710.x}, pmid = {16202093}, issn = {0962-1083}, mesh = {Animals ; Genetic Drift ; *Genetic Variation ; Microsatellite Repeats/genetics ; Northwestern United States ; Passeriformes/*genetics ; Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {Post-Pleistocene avian colonization of deglaciated North America occurred from multiple refugia, including a coastal refugium in the northwest. The location of a Pacific Coastal refugium is controversial; however, multiple lines of evidence suggest that it was located near the Queen Charlotte Islands (also known as Haida Gwaii). The Queen Charlotte Islands contain a disproportionately large number of endemic plants and animals including the Steller's jay Cyanocitta stelleri carlottae. Using five highly variable microsatellite markers, we studied population structure among eight populations of Steller's jay (N = 150) from geographical areas representing three subspecies in western North America: C. s. carlottae, C. s. stelleri and C. s. annectens. Microsatellite analyses revealed genetic differentiation between each of the three subspecies, although more extensive sampling of additional C. s. annectens populations is needed to clarify the level of subspecies differentiation. High levels of population structure were found among C. s. stelleri populations with significant differences in all but two pairwise comparisons. A significant isolation by distance pattern was observed amongst populations in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. In the C. s. carlottae population, there was evidence of reduced genetic variation, higher number of private alleles than northern C. s. stelleri populations and higher levels of divergence between Queen Charlotte Island and other populations. We were unable to reject the hypothesis that the Queen Charlotte Islands served as a refugium during the Pleistocene. Steller's jay may have colonized the Queen Charlotte Islands near the end of the last glaciation or persisted throughout the Pleistocene, and this subspecies may thus represent a glacial relic. The larger number of private alleles, despite reduced genetic variation, morphological distinctiveness and high divergence from other populations suggests that the Queen Charlotte Island colonization pre-dates that of the mainland. Furthermore, our results show rapid divergence in Steller's jay populations on the mainland following the retreat of the ice sheets.}, }
@article {pmid16196334, year = {2005}, author = {Mookherjea, S}, title = {Dispersion characteristics of coupled-resonator optical waveguides.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {30}, number = {18}, pages = {2406-2408}, doi = {10.1364/ol.30.002406}, pmid = {16196334}, issn = {0146-9592}, abstract = {A tight-binding optical waveguide formed by proximity coupling of nearest-neighbor resonators, e.g., a coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW), has distinct wave and pulse propagation characteristics compared with a conventional waveguide, and several applications in photonic devices have been proposed recently. But analysis of the dispersion, and in particular the group-velocity dispersion, in such a waveguide requires particular attention: the waveguide displays two distinct regimes of operation, depending on the position of the wave packet in the dispersion relationship.}, }
@article {pmid16193799, year = {2005}, author = {Chung, H and Jin, H and Dempsey, JF and Liu, C and Palta, J and Suh, TS and Kim, S}, title = {Evaluation of surface and build-up region dose for intensity-modulated radiation therapy in head and neck cancer.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {32}, number = {8}, pages = {2682-2689}, doi = {10.1118/1.1992067}, pmid = {16193799}, issn = {0094-2405}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Body Burden ; Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation ; Film Dosimetry/*methods ; Head and Neck Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Humans ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; Relative Biological Effectiveness ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; }, abstract = {Despite much development, there remains dosimetric uncertainty in the surface and build-up regions in intensity-modulated radiation therapy treatment plans for head and neck cancers. Experiments were performed to determine the dosimetric discrepancies in the surface and build-up region between the treatment planning system (TPS) prediction and experimental measurement using radiochromic film. A head and neck compression film phantom was constructed from two semicylindrical solid water slabs. Treatment plans were generated using two commercial TPSs (PINNACLE3 and CORVUS) for two cases, one with a shallow (approximately 0.5 cm depth) target and another with a deep (approximately 6 cm depth) target. The plans were evaluated for a 54 Gy prescribed dose. For each case, two pieces of radiochromic film were used for dose measurement. A small piece of film strip was placed on the surface and another was inserted within the phantom. Overall, both TPSs showed good agreement with the measurement. For the shallow target case, the dose differences were within +/- 300 cGy (5.6% with respect to the prescribed dose) for PINNACLE3 and +/- 240 cGy (4.4%) for CORVUS in 90% of the region of interest. For the deep target case, the dose differences were +/- 350 (6.5%) for PINNACLE3 and +/- 260 cGy (4.8%) for CORVUS in 90% of the region of interest. However, it was found that there were significant discrepancies from the surface to about 0.2 cm in depth for both the shallow and deep target cases. It was concluded that both TPSs overestimated the surface dose for both shallow and deep target cases. The amount of overestimation ranges from 400 to 1000 cGy (approximately 7.4% to 18.5% with respect to the prescribed dose, 5400 cGy).}, }
@article {pmid16191755, year = {2005}, author = {Dubroff, JG and Stevens, RT and Hitt, J and Maier, DL and McCasland, JS and Hodge, CJ}, title = {Use-dependent plasticity in barrel cortex: intrinsic signal imaging reveals functional expansion of spared whisker representation into adjacent deprived columns.}, journal = {Somatosensory &amp; motor research}, volume = {22}, number = {1-2}, pages = {25-35}, doi = {10.1080/08990220500084990}, pmid = {16191755}, issn = {0899-0220}, support = {HD044831-01/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; NS31829/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; NS40779/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Brain Mapping/*methods ; Cricetinae ; Denervation ; Female ; Male ; Mesocricetus ; Neuronal Plasticity/*physiology ; Optics and Photonics ; Physical Stimulation ; Somatosensory Cortex/*physiology ; Vibrissae/*innervation/physiology ; }, abstract = {We used optical imaging of intrinsic cortical signals, elicited by whisker stimulation, to define areas of activation in primary sensory cortex of normal hamsters and hamsters subjected to neonatal follicle ablation at postnatal day seven (P7). Follicle ablations were unilateral, and spared either C-row whiskers or the second whisker arc. This study was done to determine if the intrinsic cortical connectivity pattern of the barrel cortex, established during the critical period, affects the process of representational plasticity that follows whisker follicle ablation. Additionally, we tested the ability to monitor such changes in individual cortical whisker representations using intrinsic signal imaging. Stimulation of a single whisker yielded peak activation of a barrel-sized patch in the somatotopically appropriate location in normal cortex. In both row and arc-spared animals, functional representations corresponding to spared follicles were significantly stronger and more oblong than normal. The pattern of activation differed in the row-sparing and arc-sparing groups, in that the expansion was preferentially into deprived, not spared areas. Single whisker stimulation in row-spared cases preferentially activated the corresponding barrel arc, while stimulation of one whisker in arc-spared cases produced elongated activation down the barrel row. Since whisker deflection normally has a net inhibitory effect on neighboring barrels, our data suggest that intracortical inhibition fails to develop normally in deprived cortical columns. Because thalamocortical projections are not affected by follicle ablation after P7, we suggest that the effects we observed are largely cortical, not thalamocortical.}, }
@article {pmid16180624, year = {2005}, author = {Gray, JR and Burgess, GC and Schaefer, A and Yarkoni, T and Larsen, RJ and Braver, TS}, title = {Affective personality differences in neural processing efficiency confirmed using fMRI.}, journal = {Cognitive, affective &amp; behavioral neuroscience}, volume = {5}, number = {2}, pages = {182-190}, pmid = {16180624}, issn = {1530-7026}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Affect/*physiology ; Brain/anatomy &amp; histology/*blood supply/physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Female ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/methods ; *Individuality ; *Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Oxygen/blood ; Personality/*physiology ; Statistics as Topic ; }, abstract = {To test for a relation between individual differences in personality and neural-processing efficiency, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to assess brain activity within regions associated with cognitive control during a demanding working memory task. Fifty-three participants completed both the self-report behavioral inhibition sensitivity (BIS) and behavioral approach sensitivity (BAS) personality scales and a standard measure of fluid intelligence (Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices). They were then scanned as they performed a three-back working memory task. A mixed blocked/ event-related fMRI design enabled us to identify both sustained and transient neural activity. Higher BAS was negatively related to event-related activity in the dorsal anterior cingulate, the lateral prefrontal cortex, and parietal areas in regions of interest identified in previous work. These relationships were not explained by differences in either behavioral performance or fluid intelligence, consistent with greater neural efficiency. The results reveal the high specificity of the relationships among personality, cognition, and brain activity. The data confirm that affective dimensions of personality are independent of intelligence, yet also suggest that they might be interrelated in subtle ways, because they modulate activity in overlapping brain regions that appear to be critical for task performance.}, }
@article {pmid16178933, year = {2005}, author = {Milner, KM and Craig, EE and Thompson, RJ and Veltman, MW and Thomas, NS and Roberts, S and Bellamy, M and Curran, SR and Sporikou, CM and Bolton, PF}, title = {Prader-Willi syndrome: intellectual abilities and behavioural features by genetic subtype.}, journal = {Journal of child psychology and psychiatry, and allied disciplines}, volume = {46}, number = {10}, pages = {1089-1096}, doi = {10.1111/j.1469-7610.2005.01520.x}, pmid = {16178933}, issn = {0021-9630}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Autistic Disorder/*genetics/psychology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Chromosome Deletion ; Chromosomes, Human, Pair 15/genetics ; Female ; *Genetics, Behavioral ; Humans ; Intelligence/*genetics ; Male ; Matched-Pair Analysis ; Middle Aged ; Prader-Willi Syndrome/classification/*genetics/*psychology ; Single-Blind Method ; Uniparental Disomy ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Studies of chromosome 15 abnormality have implicated over-expression of paternally imprinted genes in the 15q11-13 region in the aetiology of autism. To test this hypothesis we compared individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) due to uniparental disomy (UPD--where paternally imprinted genes are over-expressed) to individuals with the 15q11-13 deletion form of the syndrome (where paternally imprinted genes are not over-expressed). We also tested reports that PWS cases due to the larger type I (TI) form of deletion show differences to cases with the smaller type II (TII) deletion.<br><br>METHOD: Ninety-six individuals with PWS were recruited from genetic centres and the PWS association. Forty-nine individuals were confirmed as having maternal UPD of chromosome 15 and were age and sex matched to 47 individuals with a deletion involving 15q11-13 (32 had the shorter (T II) deletion, and 14 had the longer (TI) deletion). Behavioural assessments were carried out blind to genetic status, using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), the Autism Diagnostic Interview (ADI), the Autism Screening Questionnaire (ASQ), the Children's Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (CY-BOCS), the Vineland Adaptive Behaviour Scales (VABS), and measurements of intellectual ability, including the Wechsler and Mullen Scales and Raven's Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: UPD cases exhibited significantly more autistic-like impairments in reciprocal social interaction on questionnaire, interview and standardised observational measures. Comparison of TI and TII deletion cases revealed few differences, but ability levels tended to be lower in the TI deletion cases.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Findings from a large study comparing deletion and UPD forms of Prader-Willi syndrome were consistent with other evidence in indicating that paternally imprinted genes in the 15q11-13 region constitute a genetic risk factor for aspects of autistic symptomatology. These genes may therefore play a role in the aetiology of autism. By contrast with another report, there was no clear-cut relationship between the size of the deletion and the form of cognitive and behavioural phenotype.}, }
@article {pmid16177479, year = {2005}, author = {Price, RA and Paskalev, K and McNeeley, S and Ma, CM}, title = {Elongated beamlets: a simple technique for segment and MU reduction for sMLC IMRT delivery on accelerators utilizing 5 mm leaf widths.}, journal = {Physics in medicine and biology}, volume = {50}, number = {19}, pages = {N235-42}, doi = {10.1088/0031-9155/50/19/N01}, pmid = {16177479}, issn = {0031-9155}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Humans ; Male ; Particle Accelerators ; Prostate/*pathology ; Prostatic Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; Rectum/radiation effects ; }, abstract = {The focus of this work is to demonstrate the effects of using an elongated beamlet to achieve similar dose conformity as achieved with a square beamlet while reducing the number of segments and subsequent MU required. A series of 10 patients were planned for IMRT delivery to the prostate using minimum beamlet sizes of 5x5 mm2 (default scheme), 10x5 mm2 with the short axis parallel to the prostate-rectum interface (scheme 1), and 10x5 mm2 with the short axis perpendicular to the prostate-rectum interface (scheme 2). All other parameters between plans were left unchanged. Plans were appropriately normalized and evaluated for R65, R40, conformity index, total number of segments and MU. All plans were generated using the Corvus inverse planning system. The average number of segments in this study decreased by approximately 49% for both schemes 1 and 2. The subsequent number of MU required decreased by approximately 34.6%. The resultant modified modulation scaling factor (MSFmod) decreased by approximately 34.3%. Additionally, we found that each isodose distribution using scheme 2 would still meet our clinical acceptance criteria with no visible degradation in the dose distribution as compared with the default scheme. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that it is possible to achieve similar results as those obtained using a 5x5 mm2 beamlet with respect to target coverage and critical structure sparing by using strategically oriented elongated beamlets. This technique directly translates to a decreased MSF(mod) allowing for decreased leakage dose to the patient, a decreased risk of exceeding secondary shielding limits in pre-existing vaults, and shorter treatment times.}, }
@article {pmid16177242, year = {2005}, author = {Watanabe, MX and Iwata, H and Okamoto, M and Kim, EY and Yoneda, K and Hashimoto, T and Tanabe, S}, title = {Induction of cytochrome P450 1A5 mRNA, protein and enzymatic activities by dioxin-like compounds, and congener-specific metabolism and sequestration in the liver of wild jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) from Tokyo, Japan.}, journal = {Toxicological sciences : an official journal of the Society of Toxicology}, volume = {88}, number = {2}, pages = {384-399}, doi = {10.1093/toxsci/kfi326}, pmid = {16177242}, issn = {1096-6080}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Aryl Hydrocarbon Hydroxylases/*biosynthesis/genetics ; Base Sequence ; Benzofurans/analysis/metabolism/toxicity ; Crows/*metabolism ; Dioxins/analysis/*metabolism/toxicity ; Enzyme Induction/drug effects ; Gene Expression/drug effects ; Liver/*drug effects/*enzymology ; Male ; Microsomes, Liver/chemistry/drug effects/enzymology ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Muscle, Skeletal/chemistry/drug effects/enzymology ; Oxidoreductases/*biosynthesis/genetics ; Polychlorinated Biphenyls/analysis/metabolism/toxicity ; Polychlorinated Dibenzodioxins/analogs &amp; derivatives/analysis/metabolism/toxicity ; RNA, Messenger/*metabolism ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Transcription, Genetic/drug effects ; }, abstract = {This study presents concentrations of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and dioxin-like coplanar PCBs (Co-PCBs) in the liver and breast muscle of jungle crows (JCs; Corvus macrorhynchos) collected from Tokyo, Japan. 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin toxic equivalents (TEQs) derived by WHO bird-TEF were in the range of 23 to 280 pg/g (lipid) in the liver, which are lower or comparable to the lowest-observed-effect-level of CYP induction in chicken, and 5.6-78 pg/g (lipid) in the pectoral muscle. Cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A-, 2B-, 2C-, and 3A-like proteins were detected using anti-rat CYP polyclonal antibodies in hepatic microsomal fractions. Significant (p < 0.05) positive correlations between hepatic TEQs and CYP1A or CYP3A-like protein expression levels were noticed, implying induction of these CYP isozymes by TEQs. On the other hand, there was no significant positive correlation between muscle TEQ and any one of analyzed CYP isozyme expression levels. CYP1A- and CYP3A-like protein expression levels represented better correlations with pentoxy- and benzyloxyresorufin-O-dealkylase activities rather than methoxy- and ethoxyresorufin-O-dealkylase activities, indicating unique catalytic functions of these CYPs in JCs. Furthermore, we succeeded in isolating CYP1A5 cDNA from the liver of JC, having an open reading frame of 531 amino acid residues with a predicted molecular mass of 60.3 kDa. JC CYP1A5 mRNA expression measured by real-time RT-PCR had a significant positive correlation with hepatic TEQs, suggesting induction of CYP1A5 at the transcriptional level. Ratios of several Co-PCB congeners to CB-169 in the liver of JCs revealed significant negative correlations with CYP1A protein or CYP1A5 mRNA expression levels, implying metabolism of these congeners by the induced CYP1A. The liver/breast muscle concentration (L/M) ratios of PCDDs/DFs and CB-169 increased with an increase in hepatic CYP1A protein or CYP1A5 mRNA expression levels, suggesting congener-specific hepatic sequestrations by the induced CYP1A. The present study provides insights into the propensity of CYP1A induction to the exposure of dioxin-like chemicals, and unique metabolic and sequestration capacities of CYP1A in JC.}, }
@article {pmid16176732, year = {2005}, author = {, }, title = {The effectiveness of case-finding for mental health problems in primary care.}, journal = {The British journal of general practice : the journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners}, volume = {55}, number = {518}, pages = {665-669}, pmid = {16176732}, issn = {0960-1643}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Clinical Competence/*standards ; Continuity of Patient Care ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Family Practice/methods/*standards ; Humans ; Mass Screening/methods ; Mental Disorders/*diagnosis ; Middle Aged ; New Zealand ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Surveys and Questionnaires/*standards ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: There is debate about the efficacy of screening and case detection for common mental health problems in general practice. There is enthusiasm for screening, but also conflicting evidence for its effectiveness and little research concerning implementation.<br><br>AIM: To explore the efficacy of screening and case-finding for high prevalence psychological disorders in routine general practice.<br><br>DESIGN OF STUDY: A cross-sectional survey (part of the MaGPie study).<br><br>SETTING: Lower North Island of New Zealand.<br><br>METHOD: Consecutive patients from a random sample of GPs were screened using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). A stratified random sample of patients was selected, based on GHQ strata, and invited to participate in an indepth interview to assess their psychological health. Seventy GPs (90% response) and 775 patients (68.5% response) were included in analyses. Patients' GHQ-12 scores were compared with GP assessment of patients' psychological health using a 5-point scale of severity, and with the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI 1-month assessment).<br><br>RESULTS: Overall 17.5% (95% CI = 13.8 to 21.1) of patients reached the threshold for CIDI diagnosis. GPs identified at least some psychological symptoms in the past 12 months in 70.3% (95% CI = 58.2 to 82.3) of patients reaching the CIDI threshold for diagnosis. Case-finding with a 'perfect' screening instrument had the potential to identify only five new cases per 100. The sensitivity and specificity of the GHQ-12 suggest it is not an appropriate tool for case finding in a general practice setting.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The potential value of any screening and case-finding instrument in routine general practice must be considered in the context of current high rates of identification. Where continuity of care is a feature of usual management, case-finding is most efficient when focused on patients the GP has not seen in the past year.}, }
@article {pmid16160783, year = {2005}, author = {Maul, JD and Smiley, PC and Cooper, CM}, title = {Patterns of avian nest predators and a brood parasite among restored riparian habitats in agricultural watersheds.}, journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment}, volume = {108}, number = {1-3}, pages = {133-150}, pmid = {16160783}, issn = {0167-6369}, mesh = {Agriculture ; Animals ; Arvicolinae ; Biodiversity ; Colubridae ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; *Environment ; Environmental Monitoring ; Female ; Mice ; Mississippi ; Nesting Behavior ; *Passeriformes ; *Predatory Behavior ; Rats ; Rivers ; Shrews ; Water Supply ; }, abstract = {In fragmented edge-dominated landscapes, nest predation and brood parasitism may reduce avian reproductive success and, ultimately, populations of some passerine species. In the fragmented agroecosystem of northwest Mississippi, placement of drop-pipe structures has been used as a restoration technique for abating gully erosion along stream banks. These actions have formed small herbaceous and woody habitat extensions into former agricultural lands. We quantified species relative abundances, species richness, and evenness of avian nest predators and a brood parasite within four categories of constructed habitat resulting from drop-pipe installation. Differences in the abundance of two nest predators, cotton mouse (Peromyscus gossypinus) and blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata), were observed among constructed habitats. However, relative abundances of other predators such as common grackle (Quiscalus quiscula), American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), and hispid cotton rat (Sigmodon hispidus), and the obligate brood parasite brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater) did not differ among four habitat categories. Although species richness, abundance, and evenness of potential nest predators were generally similar among the constructed habitats, predator species composition varied, suggesting that these habitats supported different predator communities. This difference is important because as each predator species is added to or deleted from the community, variation may occur in the framework of prey search methods, predator strategies, and potentially overall predation pressure. We suggest that land managers using drop-pipes as part of stream restoration projects allow for the development of the constructed habitat with the largest area and greatest vegetative structure.}, }
@article {pmid16159403, year = {2005}, author = {Gosselin, P and Lebel, G and Rivest, S and Douville-Fradet, M}, title = {The Integrated System for Public Health Monitoring of West Nile Virus (ISPHM-WNV): a real-time GIS for surveillance and decision-making.}, journal = {International journal of health geographics}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {21}, pmid = {16159403}, issn = {1476-072X}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: After its first detection in North America in New York in 1999, West Nile virus was detected for the first time in 2002 in the province of Quebec, Canada. This situation forced the Government of Quebec to adopt a public health protection plan against the virus. The plan comprises several fields of intervention including the monitoring of human cases, Corvidae and mosquitoes in order to ensure the early detection of the presence of the virus in a particular area. To help support the monitoring activities, the Integrated System for Public Health Monitoring of West Nile Virus (ISPHM-WNV) has been developed.<br><br>RESULTS: The ISPHM-WNV is a real-time geographic information system for public health surveillance of West Nile virus and includes information on Corvidae, mosquitoes, humans, horses, climate, and preventive larvicide interventions. It has been in operation in the province of Quebec, Canada, since May 2003. The ISPHM-WNV facilitates the collection, localization, management and analysis of monitoring data; it also allows for the display of the results of analyses on maps, tables and statistical diagrams.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The system is very helpful for field workers in all regions of the province, as well as for central authorities. It represents the common authoritative source of data for analysis, exchange and decision-making.}, }
@article {pmid16154324, year = {2005}, author = {Nouveau-Richard, S and Yang, Z and Mac-Mary, S and Li, L and Bastien, P and Tardy, I and Bouillon, C and Humbert, P and de Lacharrière, O}, title = {Skin ageing: a comparison between Chinese and European populations. A pilot study.}, journal = {Journal of dermatological science}, volume = {40}, number = {3}, pages = {187-193}, doi = {10.1016/j.jdermsci.2005.06.006}, pmid = {16154324}, issn = {0923-1811}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Asian People/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; China/epidemiology ; Environmental Exposure ; Female ; France/epidemiology ; Humans ; Life Style ; Middle Aged ; Pilot Projects ; Prevalence ; *Skin Aging ; Skin Pigmentation ; Smoking/ethnology ; Sunlight ; White People/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Although limited data are available, it is commonly considered that Europeans and Asians have different skin ageing features.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: The present studies have been carried out to evaluate the influence of age and sun-exposure on the main clinical signs of Asian skin ageing.<br><br>METHODS: One hundred and sixty Chinese and 160 French age-matched women (age range: 20-60 years old) were clinically examined and scored by the same dermatologist. Facial wrinkles (crow's-feet, glabella and perioral wrinkles) and pigmented spots (on face and hands) were assessed in situ and standardized photographs of the face were taken. Lifelong sun-exposure was estimated from answers to a questionnaire. Comparisons were made between 10-year age groups.<br><br>RESULTS: Results show that, for each facial skin area, wrinkle onset is delayed by about 10 years in Chinese women as compared to French women. Facial wrinkling rate over the years is linear in French women and not linear in Chinese women who appear to experience a fast ageing process between age 40 and 50. Pigmented spot intensity is a much more important ageing sign in Chinese women (severe for 30% of women over 40) than in French women (severe for less than 8% of women, irrespective of age).<br><br>CONCLUSION: These first results underline that main skin ageing features (wrinkles, spots) progress differently in the Chinese and French women we have studied. They require to be confirmed on broad multicentre studies involving larger cohorts.}, }
@article {pmid16131025, year = {2005}, author = {Han, J and Wu, HR and Yu, YZ and Yang, SB and Huang, YM}, title = {Study on self-consciousness of children with learning disabilities and related factors.}, journal = {Biomedical and environmental sciences : BES}, volume = {18}, number = {3}, pages = {207-210}, pmid = {16131025}, issn = {0895-3988}, mesh = {Child ; Extraction, Obstetrical ; Humans ; Income ; *Learning Disabilities/diagnosis ; Obstetrical Forceps ; Only Child ; Risk Factors ; *Self Concept ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To study the self-consciousness of children with learning disabilities (LD) and to identify related factors.<br><br>METHODS: Five hundred and sixty pupils graded from 1 to 6 in an elementary school were investigated. According to the pupil rating scale revised screening for learning disabilities (PRS), combined Raven's test (CRT) and achievement of main courses, 35 of 560 pupils were diagnosed as LD children. Thirty-five children were selected from the average children and 35 from advanced children in academic achievement equally matched in class, gender, and age with LD children as control groups. The three groups were tested by Piers-Harris children's self-concept scale. Basic information of each subject was collected by self-made questionnaire.<br><br>RESULTS: Compared with the average and advanced children, LD children got significantly lower scores in self-concept scale. Based on logistic regression analysis, 3 factors were identified, including family income per month, single child and delivery model.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results suggest that self-consciousness of children with LD is lower than that of normal children.}, }
@article {pmid16127928, year = {2005}, author = {Möller, BM and Woggon, U and Artemyev, MV}, title = {Coupled-resonator optical waveguides doped with nanocrystals.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {30}, number = {16}, pages = {2116-2118}, doi = {10.1364/ol.30.002116}, pmid = {16127928}, issn = {0146-9592}, abstract = {Microsphere resonators doped with semiconductor nanocrystals are explored as building blocks for coupled-resonator optical waveguides (CROWs). The evolution of individual cavity modes into coherently coupled waveguide modes is studied using polarization-sensitive microphotoluminescence spectroscopy. To demonstrate the formation of multisphere photon states, we use a bent linear array of microresonators and probe the properties of the cavity photon field by the spatially and spectrally resolved measurement of the nanocrystal emission. Photon mode coupling is evidenced by the observed mode splitting and emission intensity distributions along the CROW structure.}, }
@article {pmid16121826, year = {2005}, author = {Roedde, G}, title = {When the rooster crows.}, journal = {Canadian family physician Medecin de famille canadien}, volume = {51}, number = {}, pages = {1074-1075}, pmid = {16121826}, issn = {0008-350X}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Animals ; *Animals, Domestic/psychology ; Attitude to Health ; Bangladesh ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Obstetric Labor Complications ; Ontario ; Pregnancy ; *Rural Health Services ; *Terminal Care ; }, }
@article {pmid16120107, year = {2005}, author = {Bonanni, E and Maestri, M and Tognoni, G and Fabbrini, M and Nucciarone, B and Manca, ML and Gori, S and Iudice, A and Murri, L}, title = {Daytime sleepiness in mild and moderate Alzheimer's disease and its relationship with cognitive impairment.}, journal = {Journal of sleep research}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {311-317}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2869.2005.00462.x}, pmid = {16120107}, issn = {0962-1105}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Alzheimer Disease/*epidemiology/*physiopathology ; *Circadian Rhythm ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Demography ; Disorders of Excessive Somnolence/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Polysomnography ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {The increased tendency to fall asleep during the daytime together with increased wakefulness during the night has been demonstrated in patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease (AD). The aim of this study was to assess daytime sleep propensity in a cohort of patients with mild/moderate AD and to correlate it with cognitive impairment. Twenty drug-free AD patients meeting the NINCDS-ADRDA criteria for probable AD were evaluated. According to their Clinical Dementia Rating scores, subjects were classified into mild (CDR1; n=11) and moderate (CDR2; n=9) dementia patients. A group of 12 healthy subjects was taken as controls. The subjects were evaluated by the multiple sleep latency test (MSLT) after their nocturnal sleep pattern had been assessed by a polysomnographic recording throughout the night before. Both groups of AD patients showed a higher level of daytime sleepiness, which was statistically significant for mean daytime sleep latency (MDSL) (controls versus CDR1 and versus CDR2, CDR1 versus CDR2) and for 10:00 and 12:00 hour naps (controls versus CDR1, controls versus CDR2). In the entire group of AD patients, MDSL was significantly related with MMSE, De Renzi's Token test, verbal fluency, verbal digit span, story recall, Raven's Progressive Matrices, Weigl test and Benton's three-dimensional test. These data indicate that an increased sleep propensity during daytime occurs also in patients with mild/moderate AD detected by objective neurophysiological techniques.}, }
@article {pmid16120103, year = {2005}, author = {Bódizs, R and Kis, T and Lázár, AS and Havrán, L and Rigó, P and Clemens, Z and Halász, P}, title = {Prediction of general mental ability based on neural oscillation measures of sleep.}, journal = {Journal of sleep research}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {285-292}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2869.2005.00472.x}, pmid = {16120103}, issn = {0962-1105}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Cortical Synchronization/*methods ; Electroencephalography ; Eye Movements/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neurons/*physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Prefrontal Cortex/physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Sleep/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The usual assessment of general mental ability (or intelligence) is based on performance attained in reasoning and problem-solving tasks. Differences in general mental ability have been associated with event-related neural activity patterns of the wakeful working brain or physical, chemical and electrical brain features measured during wakeful resting conditions. Recent evidences suggest that specific sleep electroencephalogram oscillations are related to wakeful cognitive performances. Our aim is to reveal the relationship between non-rapid eye movement sleep-specific oscillations (the slow oscillation, delta activity, slow and fast sleep spindle density, the grouping of slow and fast sleep spindles) and general mental ability assessed by the Raven Progressive Matrices Test (RPMT). The grouping of fast sleep spindles by the cortical slow oscillation in the left frontopolar derivation (Fp1) as well as the density of fast sleep spindles over the right frontal area (Fp2, F4), correlated positively with general mental ability. Data from those selected electrodes that showed the high correlations with general mental ability explained almost 70% of interindividual variance in RPMT scores. Results suggest that individual differences in general mental ability are reflected in fast sleep spindle-related oscillatory activity measured over the frontal cortex.}, }
@article {pmid16117124, year = {2005}, author = {Koch, I and Mace, JV and Reimer, KJ}, title = {Arsenic speciation in terrestrial birds from Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada: the unexpected finding of arsenobetaine.}, journal = {Environmental toxicology and chemistry}, volume = {24}, number = {6}, pages = {1468-1474}, doi = {10.1897/04-155r.1}, pmid = {16117124}, issn = {0730-7268}, mesh = {Animals ; Arsenic/*chemistry/*pharmacokinetics ; Arsenic Poisoning/metabolism ; Arsenicals/*chemistry/*pharmacokinetics ; Bird Diseases/chemically induced ; Birds/*metabolism ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid ; Mass Spectrometry ; Northwest Territories ; }, abstract = {The surrounding area of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada, is known for naturally and anthropogenically elevated concentrations of arsenic. Five bird species (gray jay [Perisoreus canadensis], American tree sparrow [Spizella arborea], dark-eyed junco [Junco hyemalis], yellow-rumped warbler [Dendroica coronata], and spruce grouse [Dendragapus canadensis]) were collected from this area. Their tissues were analyzed for total arsenic and for arsenic species, allowing us to report, to our knowledge for the first time, the arsenic characterization in terrestrial birds. Total arsenic concentrations were determined in the terrestrial birds by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry, whereas arsenic speciation analysis was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Total arsenic concentrations were substantially higher in the terrestrial bird species studied from Yellowknife compared with those reported previously in the literature. The primary arsenic species detected in two of the bird species studied was arsenobetaine. Normally, arsenobetaine is not formed or retained by terrestrial animals. Thus, the birds in the present study were thought to be highly adapted compared with other terrestrial animals, because they were able to form and/or retain this relatively nontoxic arsenic compound. This adaptation is thought to be a consequence of the elevated concentrations of arsenic in the Yellowknife area.}, }
@article {pmid16115244, year = {2005}, author = {Sukantarat, KT and Burgess, PW and Williamson, RC and Brett, SJ}, title = {Prolonged cognitive dysfunction in survivors of critical illness.}, journal = {Anaesthesia}, volume = {60}, number = {9}, pages = {847-853}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2044.2005.04148.x}, pmid = {16115244}, issn = {0003-2409}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology ; Critical Care ; Critical Illness/*psychology ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Prospective Studies ; Psychometrics ; Quality of Life ; Severity of Illness Index ; Survivors/*psychology ; }, abstract = {A prospective study using neuropsychological testing explored cognitive performance, and specifically executive function, in survivors of critical illness during the first year of recovery. Fifty-one patients who had survived 3 days or more in the intensive care unit were studied approximately 3 months after discharge; 45 of them were studied again 6 months later. General health was assessed using the Short-Form 36. Cognitive and executive functions were measured using Raven's Progressive Matrices, the Hayling Sentence completion test and the Six-Element Test. Three months after discharge from intensive care, all eight domains of Short-Form 36 were impaired among survivors; by 9 months, four of the eight domains showed significant improvement. At 3 months, 35% of patients scored at or below a level equivalent to the lowest performing 5% of a normal population (i.e. the fifth percentile) on two or more tests of cognitive function; by 9 months only 4% of patients were impaired to this extent. Although cognitive performance improved with time, it remained below normal.}, }
@article {pmid16107670, year = {2005}, author = {Gibbs, SE and Ellis, AE and Mead, DG and Allison, AB and Moulton, JK and Howerth, EW and Stallknecht, DE}, title = {West Nile virus detection in the organs of naturally infected blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata).}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {41}, number = {2}, pages = {354-362}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-41.2.354}, pmid = {16107670}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/diagnosis/epidemiology/*pathology/virology ; Female ; Georgia/epidemiology ; Immunohistochemistry/veterinary ; Male ; Organ Specificity ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Songbirds/*virology ; Splenomegaly/diagnosis/epidemiology/pathology/veterinary ; Viral Load/veterinary ; West Nile Fever/diagnosis/epidemiology/pathology/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) are an effective indicator species for West Nile virus (WNV) and may be regionally important in surveillance efforts. The sites of WNV replication and sensitivity of virus detection techniques are undefined for blue jays. The objectives of this study were to describe the gross and microscopic pathology associated with natural WNV infection in blue jays, as well as determine the most appropriate tissues to be used for virus isolation, reverse transcription-nested polymerase chain reaction, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) techniques. Blue jays were collected in Georgia, USA, between May and September 2001. Initial screening by virus isolation indicated that 36 of 59 blue jays chosen for evaluation were WNV positive. From this group, 20 positive and five negative birds were chosen to compare virus detection techniques. Six positive and five negative birds were selected for histopathology examination. Splenomegaly and poor body condition were the most consistent gross findings among positive birds. The most consistent histopathologic findings in the tissues of WNV-positive blue jays were mononuclear leukocytosis and epicarditis/myocarditis. Brain, heart, and lung had the highest viral titers, and WNV antigen was most often detected by IHC in heart, kidney, liver, and lung. Reverse transcription-nested polymerase chain reaction proved to be the most sensitive diagnostic test applied in this study irrespective of the tissue type. Brain tissue could be used effectively for both virus isolation and RT-nPCR, and this tissue is simple to remove and process. The success of IHC is highly dependent on tissue selection, and the use of multiple tissues including heart, kidney, liver, or lung is recommended.}, }
@article {pmid16102756, year = {2006}, author = {Pravosudov, VV and Kitaysky, AS}, title = {Effects of nutritional restrictions during post-hatching development on adrenocortical function in western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica).}, journal = {General and comparative endocrinology}, volume = {145}, number = {1}, pages = {25-31}, doi = {10.1016/j.ygcen.2005.06.011}, pmid = {16102756}, issn = {0016-6480}, mesh = {Adrenal Cortex/*physiology ; Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; Animals ; Corticosterone/blood ; Food Deprivation/*physiology ; Passeriformes/*growth &amp; development/physiology ; Stress, Physiological ; }, abstract = {Altricial birds grow rapidly during post-hatching period and are developmentally sensitive to variations in food supply. Limited food results in elevated corticosterone levels in chicks of semi-precocial birds but it is not clear whether altricial songbirds show similar adrenocortical stress response to nutritional restrictions during early development. It is also unknown how nutritional stress during early development affects the adrenocortical function later in life in altricial birds which show tremendous variation in the magnitude of adrenocortical stress response. Using western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica), we experimentally demonstrated that moderate food restrictions (65% of ad libitum) during post-hatching development caused significant elevation of baseline corticosterone levels in nest-bound chicks. Compared to controls, 1-year-old scrub-jays that experienced nutritional deficits during post-hatching development also showed a marginally significant trend to have stronger adrenocortical stress response and significantly greater degree of fluctuating asymmetry in bone and feather measurements. Thus, our results demonstrated that developing altricial birds show adrenocortical response to nutritional deficits, which might produce long-term changes in responsiveness of the adrenal system. Our study suggests that baseline corticosterone levels are a good indicator of physiological conditions of developing birds and that individual variance in adrenocortical stress response commonly observed in many species might, at least in part, be explained by environmental conditions during early development. Considering that nutritional restrictions during early development are linked to many permanent changes including impaired cognitive abilities, corticosterone levels in developing young might be a reliable predictor of their future fitness.}, }
@article {pmid16098549, year = {2005}, author = {Mackie, P and Sim, F}, title = {Mercury rising or 'Why is a raven like a writing desk?'.}, journal = {Public health}, volume = {119}, number = {10}, pages = {851-852}, doi = {10.1016/j.puhe.2005.07.001}, pmid = {16098549}, issn = {0033-3506}, mesh = {Environmental Monitoring ; Humans ; *International Cooperation ; Mercury Poisoning/*prevention &amp; control ; United Nations ; }, }
@article {pmid16097398, year = {2005}, author = {Friborg, O and Barlaug, D and Martinussen, M and Rosenvinge, JH and Hjemdal, O}, title = {Resilience in relation to personality and intelligence.}, journal = {International journal of methods in psychiatric research}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {29-42}, pmid = {16097398}, issn = {1049-8931}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Psychological ; Adult ; Data Collection/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Data Interpretation, Statistical ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Military Personnel/*psychology ; Norway ; Personality Inventory/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychometrics/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Reproducibility of Results ; Self Concept ; Social Adjustment ; Stress, Psychological/complications ; Students/psychology ; Survivors/*psychology ; }, abstract = {Resilience is a construct of increasing interest, but validated scales measuring resilience factors among adults are scarce. Here, a scale named the Resilience Scale for Adults (RSA) was crossvalidated and compared with measures of personality (Big Five/5PFs), cognitive abilities (Raven's Advanced Matrices, Vocabulary, Number series), and social intelligence (TSIS). All measures were given to 482 applicants for the military college. Confirmatory factor analyses confirmed the fit of the five-factor model, measuring 'personal strength', 'social competence', 'structured style', 'family cohesion' and 'social resources'. Using Big Five to discriminate between well adjusted and more vulnerable personality profiles, all resilience factors were positively correlated with the well adjusted personality profile. RSA-personal strength was most associated with 5PFs-emotional stability, RSA-social competence with 5PFs-extroversion and 5PFs-agreeableness, as well as TSIS-social skills, RSA-structured style with 5PFs-conscientiousness. Unexpectedly but interestingly, measures of RSA-family cohesion and RSA-social resources were also related to personality. Furthermore, the RSA was unrelated to cognitive abilities. This study supported the convergent and discriminative validity of the scale, and thus the inference that individuals scoring high on this scale are psychologically healthier, better adjusted, and thus more resilient.}, }
@article {pmid16087417, year = {2005}, author = {Bugnyar, T and Heinrich, B}, title = {Ravens, Corvus corax, differentiate between knowledgeable and ignorant competitors.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {272}, number = {1573}, pages = {1641-1646}, pmid = {16087417}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Competitive Behavior/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Discrimination Learning/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Memory/physiology ; Observation ; }, abstract = {Human social behaviour is influenced by attributing mental states to others. It is debated whether and to what extent such skills might occur in non-human animals. We here test for the possibility of ravens attributing knowledge about the location of food to potential competitors. In our experiments, we capitalize on the mutually antagonistic interactions that occur in these birds between those individuals that store food versus those that try to pilfer these caches. Since ravens' pilfer success depends on memory of observed caches, we manipulated the view of birds at caching, thereby designing competitors who were either knowledgeable or ignorant of cache location and then tested the responses of both storers and pilferers to those competitors at recovery. We show that ravens modify their cache protection and pilfer tactics not simply in response to the immediate behaviour of competitors, but also in relation to whether or not they previously had the opportunity of observing caching. Our results suggest that the birds not only recall whom they had seen during caching, but also know that obstacles can obstruct the view of others and that this affects pilfering.}, }
@article {pmid16085784, year = {2005}, author = {Bierman, EJ and Comijs, HC and Jonker, C and Beekman, AT}, title = {Effects of anxiety versus depression on cognition in later life.}, journal = {The American journal of geriatric psychiatry : official journal of the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry}, volume = {13}, number = {8}, pages = {686-693}, doi = {10.1176/appi.ajgp.13.8.686}, pmid = {16085784}, issn = {1064-7481}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Alzheimer Disease/*diagnosis/epidemiology/psychology ; Anxiety/*diagnosis/epidemiology/psychology ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/epidemiology/psychology ; Comorbidity ; Depression/*diagnosis/epidemiology/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Netherlands ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Personality Assessment ; Statistics as Topic ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The authors investigated the relationship between anxiety and cognition in older persons, taking account of comorbid depression.<br><br>METHODS: Data were used from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASA), a large epidemiological study of 3,107 elderly citizens in The Netherlands. Anxiety and depression were measured with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Anxiety subscale and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale. In measuring cognitive performance, general cognitive functioning was measured by means of Mini-Mental State Exam, episodic memory was measured with the Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT), fluid intelligence by using the RAVEN, and information-processing speed by the coding task. Analysis of variance examined the association between anxiety symptoms and cognition in persons with and without depression.<br><br>RESULTS: Main effects of anxiety symptoms were found for learning and delayed recall of the AVLT. Depression symptoms showed significant main effects on almost all cognitive performance tests. Mild anxiety symptoms were associated with better cognitive performance, whereas severe anxiety symptoms were negatively associated with cognitive functioning. In contrast, depressive symptoms showed a linear association with cognition; more depression was associated with worse cognition.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study suggests that anxiety has a curvilinear relationship with cognition. Depressive symptoms, however, were always negatively associated with cognitive performance.}, }
@article {pmid16084519, year = {2006}, author = {Suhai, B and Gasparik, M and Csorba, G and Gerics, B and Horváth, G}, title = {Wall thickness of gas- and marrow-filled avian long bones: measurements on humeri, femora and tibiotarsi in crows (Corvus corone cornix) and magpies (Pica pica).}, journal = {Journal of biomechanics}, volume = {39}, number = {11}, pages = {2140-2144}, doi = {10.1016/j.jbiomech.2005.06.013}, pmid = {16084519}, issn = {0021-9290}, mesh = {Animals ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Bone Marrow/anatomy &amp; histology ; Crows/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Femur/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Gases ; Humerus/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Songbirds/anatomy &amp; histology ; Tibia/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {We studied how the ratio K of the internal to external diameter of gas- and marrow-filled avian long bones follows the biomechanical optima derived for tubular bones with minimum mass designed to fulfil various mechanical requirements. We evaluated radiographs of numerous humeri, femora and tibiotarsi in Corvus corone cornix and Pica pica. The K-values of the gas-filled humerus (K=0.78+/-0.03) and the marrow-filled femur (K=0.79+/-0.02) in Corvus are practically the same, while K of the marrow-filled tibiotarsus (K=0.71+/-0.04) is significantly smaller. The same is true for the gas-filled humerus (K=0.78+/-0.02) and the marrow-filled femur (K=0.77+/-0.02) and tibiotarsus (K=0.67+/-0.05) in Pica. K in Corvus is slightly larger than K in Pica, but the differences are statistically not significant. The standard deviation DeltaK of the tibiotarsi (DeltaK=0.04-0.05) is approximately two times as large as that of the humeri (DeltaK=0.02-0.03) and femora (DeltaK=0.02) in both species. Accepting the assumption of earlier authors that the ratio Q of the marrow to bone density is 0.5, our data show that the marrow-filled tibiotarsi of Corvus and Pica are optimized for stiffness, while the marrow-filled femora are far from any optimum. The relative wall thickness W=1-K of the gas-filled avian humeri studied is much larger than the theoretical optimum W*=1-K*=0.07, and thus these bones are thicker-walled than the optimal gas-filled tubular bone with minimum mass.}, }
@article {pmid16080612, year = {2005}, author = {El'chinova, GI and Zinchenko, PA and Kirillov, AG and Abrukova, AV}, title = {[Analysis of reproductive parameters of urban and rural population of Chuvashia].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {41}, number = {6}, pages = {850-854}, pmid = {16080612}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {*Ethnicity/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; Humans ; Pregnancy ; *Reproduction ; *Rural Population/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Russia ; *Urban Population/statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {Genetic and demographic characteristics for urban and rural population of the Chuvash Republic (Chuvashes and Russians) were calculated based on 1122 questionnaires. The sibship sizes for Chuvashes were 2.05 (urban) and 2.78 (rural). For Russians these indices were 1.75 (urban) and 2.00 (rural), respectively. Crow's index and its components were I(m) = 0.04; I(f) = 0.18; and I(tot) = 0.22 for urban, and I(m) = 0.07; I(f) = 0.27; and I(tot) = 0.36 for rural Chuvashes, respectively; and I(m) = 0.04; I(f) = 0.30; and I(tot) = 0.36 for urban, and I(m) = 0.03; I(f) = 0.29; and I(tot) = 0.33 for rural Russians, respectively.}, }
@article {pmid16079581, year = {2005}, author = {Kurbatova, OL and Pobedonostseva, EY and Privalova, VA}, title = {Strategies of adaptation: interpopulation selection differentials.}, journal = {Journal of physiological anthropology and applied human science}, volume = {24}, number = {4}, pages = {363-365}, doi = {10.2114/jpa.24.363}, pmid = {16079581}, issn = {1345-3475}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Biological ; Cities ; *Fertility ; Humans ; *Models, Biological ; *Mortality ; Russia ; *Selection, Genetic ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {Spatial and temporal variation of selection intensities has been analyzed using published data on Crow's indices in 278 human populations, representing various anthropological types, religions, cultures and a wide spectrum of environmental conditions. Statistical analysis has shown that populations with different types of economy have different adaptive strategies. In tribal populations both components of selection-differential fertility and differential mortality-have equal contributions, vary according to ecological factors and show no decline with time. Urban populations of the industrially developed countries show dramatic selection relaxation; the second component becomes negligible due to a sharp decrease in childhood mortality; fertility and its variance are reducing due to cultural factors (family planning).}, }
@article {pmid16079032, year = {2005}, author = {McGregor, J and Hanlon, N and Emmons, S and Voaklander, D and Kelly, K}, title = {If all ambulances could fly: putting provincial standards of emergency care access to the test in Northern British Columbia.}, journal = {Canadian journal of rural medicine : the official journal of the Society of Rural Physicians of Canada = Journal canadien de la medecine rurale : le journal officiel de la Societe de medecine rurale du Canada}, volume = {10}, number = {3}, pages = {163-168}, pmid = {16079032}, issn = {1203-7796}, mesh = {Air Ambulances/statistics &amp; numerical data/*supply &amp; distribution ; British Columbia ; Catchment Area, Health ; Community Health Planning/standards ; Databases, Factual ; Emergency Medical Services/statistics &amp; numerical data/*supply &amp; distribution ; Geographic Information Systems ; Health Services Accessibility/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Humans ; Research Design ; Rural Health Services/statistics &amp; numerical data/*supply &amp; distribution ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Geographic access to emergency treatment remains an important public policy concern as rural emergency medical systems respond to various pressures to centralize services. Geographical Information Systems (GIS) are effective tools to determine what proportion of a given population is adequately served by existing or proposed service distributions.<br><br>METHODS: This study compares 2 GIS approaches to determining whether recent standards of emergency care access established by the British Columbia Ministry of Health Services are being met in Northern British Columbia. In particular, we compare results obtained using the more commonly used straight-line, or "as the crow flies," method with those obtained using a more sophisticated method that estimates travel time using digitally referenced road network data.<br><br>RESULTS: Both methods reveal that provincial standards of emergency access are not being met in Northern British Columbia.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In terms of comparing the 2 approaches, the network technique indicated a lower level of access and was more accurate in identifying populations residing inside and outside the "golden hour" of emergency care.}, }
@article {pmid16060211, year = {2005}, author = {Stein, AD and Behrman, JR and DiGirolamo, A and Grajeda, R and Martorell, R and Quisumbing, A and Ramakrishnan, U}, title = {Schooling, educational achievement, and cognitive functioning among young Guatemalan adults.}, journal = {Food and nutrition bulletin}, volume = {26}, number = {2 Suppl 1}, pages = {S46-54}, doi = {10.1177/15648265050262S105}, pmid = {16060211}, issn = {0379-5721}, support = {R01 HD-046125/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R01 TW-05598/TW/FIC NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cohort Studies ; Data Collection/methods ; Developing Countries ; Education/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Educational Status ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Guatemala ; Humans ; Income ; Male ; *Social Class ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {Quantity and quality of schooling obtained and the resulting skills and knowledge acquired are important components of human capital. We describe the distribution of selected measures of schooling, educational achievement, and cognitive functioning among individuals who participated as children in a nutrition supplementation trial in Guatemala and were followed up in 2002-04. Among 1,469 respondents (response rate 80%), who were 26-41 years of age in 2003, more than 90% of men and women had attended at least some school; more than half of men and more than one-third of women had completed sixth grade. Schooling attainment of both men and women has increased across birth cohorts but the schooling gap between men and women has increased. Parental socioeconomic status, as measured in 1975, is a strong predictor of schooling attainment. Basic literacy is high among those studied, with more than 80% able to read simple sentences. The gap in educational achievement favoring men narrowed across birth cohorts due to increases among younger women. The greater performance among men on the Raven's Progressive Matrices test persisted despite increased scores in the younger birth cohorts for both men and women. Migrants to Guatemala City have completed more years of school and scored higher on the tests of educational achievement and cognitive functioning than have cohort members who have remained in the study villages.}, }
@article {pmid16055471, year = {2005}, author = {Bushnell, J and McLeod, D and Dowell, A and Salmond, C and Ramage, S and Collings, S and Ellis, P and Kljakovic, M and McBain, L and , }, title = {Do patients want to disclose psychological problems to GPs?.}, journal = {Family practice}, volume = {22}, number = {6}, pages = {631-637}, doi = {10.1093/fampra/cmi080}, pmid = {16055471}, issn = {0263-2136}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Attitude ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Mental Disorders ; Middle Aged ; New Zealand ; *Physician-Patient Relations ; *Physicians, Family ; *Self Disclosure ; State Medicine ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: GPs are an accessible health care provider for most patients with mental disorders and are gatekeepers to specialist care. The extent to which patients consider their primary care team as relevant to their mental health problems needs to be explored.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To explore reasons why patients choose not to disclose psychological problems to GPs, and to discuss the implications for the provision of primary mental health care.<br><br>METHODS: A cross-sectional survey of consecutive patients attending general practices in New Zealand (part of the MaGPIe study). Patients were screened using the GHQ-12 and a stratified sample participated in a structured in-depth interview to assess their psychological health. Non-disclosure of psychological problems was explored. GPs assessed patients' psychological health using a 5-point scale of severity.<br><br>RESULTS: Seventy GPs (90%) and 775 patients (70%) participated. Overall, 29.8% of all patients and 36.9% of patients with current symptoms reported non-disclosure of self-perceived psychological problems. Younger patients, those consulting more frequently and those with greater psychiatric disability were more likely to report non-disclosure. The most frequently given reasons were beliefs that a GP is not the 'right' person to talk to (33.8%) or that mental health problems should not be discussed at all (27.6%).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Interventions such as screening and GP education may be ineffective in improving primary mental health care unless accompanied by educational programmes for the general public to increase mental health literacy, de-stigmatise mental illness and increase awareness of general practice as an appropriate and effective source of health care.}, }
@article {pmid16050108, year = {2005}, author = {Morse, GE and Farrell, BD}, title = {Ecological and evolutionary diversification of the seed beetle genus Stator (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae).}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {59}, number = {6}, pages = {1315-1333}, pmid = {16050108}, issn = {0014-3820}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Biological ; Americas ; Animals ; Base Sequence ; Bayes Theorem ; Coleoptera/*genetics/physiology ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; Diet ; Models, Genetic ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Oviposition/physiology ; Peptide Elongation Factor 1/genetics ; *Phylogeny ; *Plant Physiological Phenomena ; Seeds/*physiology ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Species Specificity ; *Symbiosis ; }, abstract = {Ehrlich and Raven's (1964) hypothesis on coevolution has stimulated numerous phylogenetic studies that focus on the effects of plant defensive chemistry as the main ecological axis of phytophagous insect diversification. However, other ecological features affect host use and diet breadth and they may have very different consequences for insect evolution. In this paper, we present a phylogenetic study based on DNA sequences from mitochondrial and protein-coding genes of species in the seed beetle genus Stator, which collectively show considerable interspecific variation in host affiliation, diet breadth, and the dispersal stage of the seeds that they attack. We used comparative analyses to examine transitions in these three axes of resource use. We argue that these analyses show that diet breadth evolution is dependent upon colonizing novel hosts that are closely or distantly related to the ancestral host, and that oviposition substrate affects the evolution of host-plant affiliation, the evolution of dietary specialization, and the degree to which host plants are shared between species. The results of this study show that diversification is structured by interactions between different selective pressures and along multiple ecological axes.}, }
@article {pmid16047776, year = {2005}, author = {Watanabe, MX and Iwata, H and Watanabe, M and Tanabe, S and Subramanian, A and Yoneda, K and Hashimoto, T}, title = {Bioaccumulation of organochlorines in crows from an indian open waste dumping site: evidence for direct transfer of dioxin-like congeners from the contaminated soil.}, journal = {Environmental science &amp; technology}, volume = {39}, number = {12}, pages = {4421-4430}, doi = {10.1021/es050057r}, pmid = {16047776}, issn = {0013-936X}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*metabolism ; Dioxins/*pharmacokinetics ; Environmental Monitoring/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry ; Hydrocarbons, Chlorinated/*pharmacokinetics ; India ; Muscle, Skeletal/chemistry ; Principal Component Analysis ; *Refuse Disposal ; Soil Pollutants/*analysis ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; }, abstract = {To assess the significance of waste dumping sites as a source of chemical contamination to ecosystems, we analyzed the residue levels of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and other organochlorines in the breast muscle of crows from a dumping site in the south of Chennai city, South India. Crows from the dumping site contained significantly higher total TEQs (60 +/- 27 pg/g lipid wt) than those from the reference sites (26 +/- 18 pg/g lipid wt). Especially, certain dioxin-like coplanar PCB congeners (Co-PCBs), such as CB-77 and CB-105, whose source is commercial PCBs,were significantly higher in crows from the dumping site than those from the reference sites. Profiles of PCDDs/DFs and Co-PCBs in crows from the dumping site were similar to those of soil at the same site, which was confirmed by principal component analysis. Furthermore, significant positive correlations were obtained between the congener-specific bioconcentration factors (BCFs) of PCDDs/DFs estimated from concentrations in crows and soil from the dumping site and the theoretical BCFs calculated from water-particle and lipid-water partitioning coefficients. On the other hand, the estimated BCFs had significant negative correlations with the molecular weight of PCDDs/DFs, indicating that molecular size limits their bioaccumulation. These results suggest that dioxin-like congeners in the soil of the dumping site were transferred directly to the crows through the ingestion of on-site garbage contaminated with soil, rather than through trophic transfer in the ecosystem. The present study provides insight into the ecological impacts of dumping sites.}, }
@article {pmid16046717, year = {2005}, author = {Watanabe, K and Flores, R and Fujiwara, J and Tran, LT}, title = {Early childhood development interventions and cognitive development of young children in rural Vietnam.}, journal = {The Journal of nutrition}, volume = {135}, number = {8}, pages = {1918-1925}, doi = {10.1093/jn/135.8.1918}, pmid = {16046717}, issn = {0022-3166}, mesh = {Body Height ; Body Weight ; Child ; *Child Development ; Cognition/*physiology ; Growth Disorders/epidemiology ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena/*physiology ; Prevalence ; Rural Population ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Vietnam/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Little is known about the long-term benefits of interventions that aim to promote early childhood development programs. The goal of this research was to determine whether an early childhood development intervention added to a nutrition intervention during preschool ages had lasting effects on the cognitive development of school-age children in communes of Thanh Hoa province in rural Vietnam. The study focused on a total of 313 children aged 6.5-8.5 y (grades 1 and 2 in primary school) in 2 communes that were exposed to nutrition intervention or nutrition and early childhood development (ECD) intervention from 1999 to 2003. Measurements of height and cognitive test scores (Raven's Progressive Matrices Test) were collected from the children; household characteristics were determined by interviews with mothers. Longitudinal analysis was performed by integrating the data with that collected from the same children in past surveys. Significant effects of the ECD intervention compared with the nutrition intervention were detected. The beneficial effect of ECD intervention on the cognitive test scores was large for the most nutritionally challenged children whose height-for-age Z-scores declined or remained in the stunted range. The findings help provide useful insights into the development of an effective integrated model of ECD and nutrition intervention for children in rural Vietnam.}, }
@article {pmid16035403, year = {2004}, author = {Burns, JK}, title = {An evolutionary theory of schizophrenia: cortical connectivity, metarepresentation, and the social brain.}, journal = {The Behavioral and brain sciences}, volume = {27}, number = {6}, pages = {831-55; discussion 855-85}, doi = {10.1017/s0140525x04000196}, pmid = {16035403}, issn = {0140-525X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Cerebral Cortex/*physiopathology ; Cognition ; Cortical Synchronization ; Electroencephalography ; Humans ; Models, Neurological ; Models, Psychological ; Nerve Net/*physiopathology ; Primates ; Psychological Theory ; Schizophrenia/diagnosis/genetics/*physiopathology ; Selection, Genetic ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Schizophrenia is a worldwide, prevalent disorder with a multifactorial but highly genetic aetiology. A constant prevalence rate in the face of reduced fecundity has caused some to argue that an evolutionary advantage exists in unaffected relatives. Here, I critique this adaptationist approach, and review--and find wanting--Crow's "speciation" hypothesis. In keeping with available biological and psychological evidence, I propose an alternative theory of the origins of this disorder. Schizophrenia is a disorder of the social brain, and it exists as a costly trade-off in the evolution of complex social cognition. Paleoanthropological and comparative primate research suggests that hominids evolved complex cortical interconnectivity (in particular, frontotemporal and frontoparietal circuits) to regulate social cognition and the intellectual demands of group living. I suggest that the ontogenetic mechanism underlying this cerebral adaptation was sequential hypermorphosis and that it rendered the hominid brain vulnerable to genetic and environmental insults. I argue that changes in genes regulating the timing of neurodevelopment occurred prior to the migration of Homo sapiens out of Africa 100,000-150,000 years ago, giving rise to the schizotypal spectrum. While some individuals within this spectrum may have exhibited unusual creativity and iconoclasm, this phenotype was not necessarily adaptive in reproductive terms. However, because the disorder shared a common genetic basis with the evolving circuitry of the social brain, it persisted. Thus schizophrenia emerged as a costly trade-off in the evolution of complex social cognition.}, }
@article {pmid16029815, year = {2005}, author = {Zhu, XR and Prado, K and Liu, HH and Guerrero, TM and Jeter, M and Liao, Z and Rice, D and Forster, K and Stevens, CW}, title = {Intensity-modulated radiation therapy for mesothelioma: impact of multileaf collimator leaf width and pencil beam size on planning quality and delivery efficiency.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {62}, number = {5}, pages = {1525-1534}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijrobp.2005.04.015}, pmid = {16029815}, issn = {0360-3016}, mesh = {Aged ; Equipment Design ; Humans ; Mesothelioma/diagnostic imaging/pathology/*radiotherapy ; Middle Aged ; Pleural Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging/pathology/*radiotherapy ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*instrumentation/standards ; Retrospective Studies ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To compare treatment plans for multileaf collimators (MLCs) with different leaf widths and different finite pencil beam (FPB) sizes, to determine the planning quality and delivery efficiency of segmented MLC (SMLC) delivery of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM).<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: Computerized tomography images of 10 right-side MPM patients were used for this planning study on a CORVUS treatment-planning system (NOMOS Corporation, Sewickley, PA) for a Varian Millennium 120-MLC (Varian Medical Systems, Palo Alto, CA). Three beam models were used. The first model forced two 0.5-cm MLC leaves to move in tandem to simulate a 1-cm leaf-width MLC and a FPB size of 1 x 1 cm2. The second model used 0.5-cm leaves with a FPB size of 0.5 x 1 cm2 (1 cm in the direction of leaf movement). The third model used 0.5-cm leaves, with a FPB size of 0.5 x 0.5 cm2. For optimization, the same dose constraints and beam parameters were used for each data set. Tissue heterogeneity corrections were used during optimization and dose calculation. Plans were optimized such that the clinical target volume received 50 Gy in 25 fractions. Dose distributions to the target and normal structures were evaluated. The number of monitor units, the number of segments, and delivery times were used to evaluate delivery efficiency.<br><br>RESULTS: All three beam models could be used for IMRT planning for MPM. The doses to clinical target volume, spinal cord, lung, liver, heart, and contralateral kidney were acceptable with all three beam models. The 0.5 x 0.5-cm2 beam model used the most monitor units (6883 +/- 974 vs. 3332 +/- 406 and 3407 +/- 443 for the 1 x 1-cm2 and 0.5 x 1-cm2 models, respectively) and treated the most segments (4297 +/- 802 vs. 1357 +/- 156 and 1767 +/- 212 for the 1 x 1-cm2 and 0.5 x 1-cm2 models, respectively). The plan generated with the 1 x 1-cm2 model required the least amount of time to deliver.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The quality of the MPM IMRT plans generated with the three beam models presented here was similar; however, the 1 x 1-cm2 model provided the most efficient delivery of MPM IMRT with the CORVUS planning system.}, }
@article {pmid16002068, year = {2006}, author = {Chiba, A and Hosokawa, N}, title = {Effects of androgens and estrogens on crowings and distress callings in male Japanese quail, Coturnix japonica.}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {49}, number = {1}, pages = {4-14}, doi = {10.1016/j.yhbeh.2005.05.020}, pmid = {16002068}, issn = {0018-506X}, mesh = {Aggression/drug effects ; Aging/physiology ; Androgens/*pharmacology ; Animals ; Body Weight/drug effects ; Cloaca/drug effects ; Coturnix/*physiology ; Dihydrotestosterone/pharmacology ; Estradiol/analogs &amp; derivatives/pharmacology ; Estrogens/*pharmacology ; Female ; Male ; Organ Size/drug effects ; Sexual Behavior, Animal/*drug effects ; Sexual Maturation/drug effects ; Testis/drug effects ; Testosterone Propionate/pharmacology ; Vocalization, Animal/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {In male Japanese quail, crowing behavior is considered to be strictly androgen-dependent. It was previously shown that in chicks, treatment with either testosterone or 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (5alpha-DHT; a non-aromatizable androgen) induced crowing with motivation for distress calling in acutely isolated conditions. Many studies, however, have shown that the potencies of testosterone and 5alpha-DHT in activating crowing in castrated males are different. To clarify the effects of androgenic and estrogenic actions on the production of crows and distress calls, we injected quail daily from 11 to 42 days after hatching (Day 11 to 42) with testosterone propionate (TP), 5alpha-DHT, estradiol benzoate (EB) or vehicle and examined their calling behaviors both in a recording chamber (acutely isolated conditions) and in their home-cages (well-acclimated conditions). Both TP- and 5alpha-DHT-treated birds began to crow by Day 13 when isolated in the recording chamber. The TP-treated birds, however, crowed less frequently than 5alpha-DHT-treated ones. This, combined with the observations that distress calling was strongly inhibited in EB-treated birds, suggests that estrogen converted from testosterone may inhibit the motivation for distress calling. On the other hand, after chronic treatment of TP, but not of 5alpha-DHT, birds began to crow intensely in their home-cages earlier than vehicle treated controls, suggesting that estrogen is needed to initiate crowing behavior in sexually active males. Taken together, it is suggested that estrogenic actions affect the motivation underlying vocal behaviors, while the androgenic action is indispensable in generating crowing.}, }
@article {pmid15980979, year = {2005}, author = {Riel-Romero, RM and Baumann, RJ and Smith, CD}, title = {An unusual complication of cancer treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia.}, journal = {Journal of neuro-oncology}, volume = {73}, number = {3}, pages = {269-272}, pmid = {15980979}, issn = {0167-594X}, mesh = {Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/therapeutic use ; Brain Neoplasms/etiology/*pathology/physiopathology ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Neoplasms, Neuroepithelial/etiology/*pathology/physiopathology ; Neoplasms, Second Primary/etiology/*pathology/physiopathology ; Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma/*drug therapy/*radiotherapy ; }, abstract = {Childhood cancer is a leading cause of mortality in children less than 15 years of age, accounting for about 10.4 of total childhood deaths [Robinson LL: In: Pizzo PA, Polack DA (eds) Principles and Practice of Pediatric Oncology, 3rd edn. Lippincott--Raven, Philadelphia--NewYork, 1997, pp. 1-10.]. As more aggressive therapeutic regimens have been adopted and ostensibly cured patients are being followed for longer periods of time, it has become increasingly clear that the treatment of cancer can have significant late effects on the growing child, one of the more troublesome of which is the induction of secondary malignancy. We report an 11-year-old child who, as supported by both clinical course and neuroimaging studies, developed an unusual complication eight years after completing therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, gliomatosis cerebri.}, }
@article {pmid15972014, year = {2005}, author = {Turinsky, AL and Ah-Seng, AC and Gordon, PM and Stromer, JN and Taschuk, ML and Xu, EW and Sensen, CW}, title = {Bioinformatics visualization and integration with open standards: the Bluejay genomic browser.}, journal = {In silico biology}, volume = {5}, number = {2}, pages = {187-198}, pmid = {15972014}, issn = {1386-6338}, mesh = {*Computational Biology ; Computer Graphics ; *Database Management Systems ; *Databases, Genetic ; Internet ; Models, Theoretical ; Programming Languages ; *Software Design ; User-Computer Interface ; }, abstract = {We have created a new Java-based integrated computational environment for the exploration of genomic data, called Bluejay. The system is capable of using almost any XML file related to genomic data. Non-XML data sources can be accessed via a proxy server. Bluejay has several features, which are new to Bioinformatics, including an unlimited semantic zoom capability, coupled with Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) outputs; an implementation of the XLink standard, which features access to MAGPIE Genecards as well as any BioMOBY service accessible over the Internet; and the integration of gene chip analysis tools with the functional assignments. The system can be used as a signed web applet, Web Start, and a local stand-alone application, with or without connection to the Internet. It is available free of charge and as open source via http://bluejay.ucalgary.ca.}, }
@article {pmid15971493, year = {2005}, author = {Gibson, BM and Kamil, AC}, title = {The fine-grained spatial abilities of three seed-caching corvids.}, journal = {Learning &amp; behavior}, volume = {33}, number = {1}, pages = {59-66}, pmid = {15971493}, issn = {1543-4494}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Birds ; Discrimination Learning ; Psychophysics/*methods ; Space Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {We used a psychophysical method to examine the ability of three corvid species to discern fine-grained spatial information. Nutcrackers, pinyon jays, and scrub-jays were required to discriminate the distance between two landmarks on a computer screen in an operant chamber. All three species were able to discriminate between arrays that differed by 20 mm; the discrimination gradients for scrub-jays and pinyon jays were sharper than those for nutcrackers, however. The results suggest that differences in spatial memory among these species are not related to differences in fine-grained perception.}, }
@article {pmid15963527, year = {2005}, author = {Bayliss, DM and Jarrold, C and Baddeley, AD and Leigh, E}, title = {Differential constraints on the working memory and reading abilities of individuals with learning difficulties and typically developing children.}, journal = {Journal of experimental child psychology}, volume = {92}, number = {1}, pages = {76-99}, doi = {10.1016/j.jecp.2005.04.002}, pmid = {15963527}, issn = {0022-0965}, mesh = {Child ; *Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; Humans ; Learning Disabilities/*epidemiology ; Memory Disorders/*diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Perceptual Disorders/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Reaction Time ; *Reading ; Space Perception/physiology ; Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {This study examined the factors that constrain the working memory span performance and reading ability of individuals with generalized learning difficulties. In the study, 50 individuals with learning difficulties (LD) and 50 typically developing children (TD) matched for reading age completed two working memory span tasks. Participants also completed independent measures of the processing and storage operations involved in each working memory span task and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices. The results showed that despite an equivalent level of working memory span, the relative importance of the constraints on working memory differed between the groups. In addition, working memory span was not closely related to word recognition or sentence comprehension performance in the LD group. These results suggest that the working memory span performance of LD and TD individuals may reflect different working memory limitations and that individuals with generalized learning difficulties may approach cognitive tasks in a qualitatively different way from that of typically developing individuals.}, }
@article {pmid15962789, year = {2005}, author = {Reisen, WK and Fang, Y and Martinez, VM}, title = {Avian host and mosquito (Diptera: Culicidae) vector competence determine the efficiency of West Nile and St. Louis encephalitis virus transmission.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {42}, number = {3}, pages = {367-375}, doi = {10.1093/jmedent/42.3.367}, pmid = {15962789}, issn = {0022-2585}, support = {R01-A155607//PHS HHS/United States ; R01-AI39483/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/virology ; Birds/*virology ; Chickens/virology ; Culex/*virology ; Disease Susceptibility/veterinary ; Encephalitis Virus, St. Louis ; Encephalitis, St. Louis/*transmission ; Female ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; Passeriformes/virology ; Species Specificity ; Viremia/veterinary ; West Nile Fever/*transmission ; West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {The ability of the invading NY99 strain of West Nile virus (WNV) to elicit an elevated viremia response in California passerine birds was critical for the effective infection of Culex mosquitoes. Of the bird species tested, Western scrub jays, Aphelocoma coerulescens, produced the highest viremia response, followed by house finches, Carpodacus mexicanus, and house sparrows, Passer domesticus. Most likely, few mourning, Zenaidura macroura, or common ground, Columbina passerine, doves and no California quail, Callipepla californica, or chickens would infect blood-feeding Culex mosquitoes. All Western scrub jays and most house finches succumbed to infection. All avian hosts produced a lower viremia response and survived after infection with an endemic strain of St. Louis encephalitis virus. Culex species varied in their susceptibility to infection with both viruses, with Culex stigmatosoma Dyar generally most susceptible, followed by Culex tarsalis Coquillett, and then Culex p. quinquefasciatus Say. Populations within Culex species varied markedly in their susceptibility, perhaps contributing to the focality of WNV amplification. Transmitting female Cx. tarsalis expectorated from six to 3,777 plaque-forming units (PFU) of WNV during transmission trials, thereby exposing avian hosts to a wide range of infectious doses. Highly susceptible house finches and moderately susceptible mourning doves were infected by subcutaneous inoculation with decreasing concentrations of WNV ranging from 15,800 to <0.3 PFU. All birds became infected and produced comparable peak viremias on days 2-3 postinoculation; however, the rise in viremia titer and onset of the acute phase of infection occurred earliest in birds inoculated with the highest doses. WNV virulence in birds seemed critical in establishing elevated viremias necessary to efficiently infect blood feeding Culex mosquitoes.}, }
@article {pmid15962778, year = {2005}, author = {Russell, CB and Hunter, FF}, title = {Attraction of Culex pipiens/restuans (Diptera: Culicidae) mosquitoes to bird uropygial gland odors at two elevations in the Niagara region of Ontario.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {42}, number = {3}, pages = {301-305}, doi = {10.1093/jmedent/42.3.301}, pmid = {15962778}, issn = {0022-2585}, mesh = {Altitude ; Animals ; Canada ; Crows/*metabolism ; Culex/classification/*physiology ; Exocrine Glands/*metabolism ; *Odorants ; *Pheromones ; Population Density ; Trees ; }, abstract = {In an effort to determine whether female Culex pipiens L. and Culex restuans Theobald mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) are attracted to crow, Corvus brachyrhynchus, uropygial gland secretions, CDC miniature light traps (baited with CO2 but with the lights removed) were placed at approximately 1.5- and 5-m elevations, in 10 trees in awoodlot near Niagara Falls, Canada. These traps were assigned either a bird odor or a blank control. Bird odors were created by attaching cotton swabs coated with crow uropygial gland secretions to the trap intake. A significantly greater number of Cx. pipiens/ restuans were found in the 5-m traps compared with 1.5-m traps, with a significant number attracted to the bird odor over the no odor traps at the 5-m elevation, but not at 1.5 m. We also found more Aedes vexans (Meigen) in the 1.5-m traps than the 5-m traps; however, presence or absence of bird odor did not influence the distribution of Ae. vexans.}, }
@article {pmid15951861, year = {2005}, author = {Bella, H and Khalil, MS and Al-Almaie, SM and Kurashi, NY and Wahas, S}, title = {The effects of birth interval on intellectual development of Saudi school children in Eastern Saudi Arabia.}, journal = {Saudi medical journal}, volume = {26}, number = {5}, pages = {741-745}, pmid = {15951861}, issn = {0379-5284}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; *Birth Intervals ; Child ; Child Welfare ; Contraception Behavior ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Educational Status ; Family Characteristics ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Mother-Child Relations ; Saudi Arabia ; Urban Population ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The primary aim of this study was to investigate the effect of birth intervals on some aspects of intellectual ability of Saudi primary school boys.<br><br>METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study of Saudi school children comparing their intellectual ability (general intelligence) in relation to the length of the birth interval before and after the birth of the index child. The study area comprised 3 townships in the eastern province; Khobar, Thogba and Dhahran. The study was conducted in 2000/2001 and the study population comprised Saudi primary school boys aged 9-10 years from a middle class background. A 2 stage random sampling technique was adopted. Data were collected using student data sheet, a family questionnaire and the Standard Progressive Raven Matrices Test of intellectual ability, standardized for use in Saudi Arabia. Data were analyzed using SPSS software.<br><br>RESULTS: More than 90% of children born after a birth interval greater than 35 months were classified as average and above according to the Raven Matrices Test, compared to 79% of children born after a birth interval of less than 19 months (p<0.03). Analysis of variance showed that test scores increased consistently as the succeeding birth interval increased. Multivariate analysis showed the most import predicting variables in the Raven Matrices Test to be family income and height.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Longer birth intervals were shown to be associated with higher general intelligence levels in the 9-10 year olds. These results confirm those obtained in a previous study in Singapore conducted more than 2 decades ago. Our results have also shown that the succeeding birth interval is more significant than the preceding interval in relation to perceptive ability of children. The findings enable us to advise parents that by observing a birth interval between 2-3 years would make their children grow and do better at school.}, }
@article {pmid15950806, year = {2005}, author = {Stevens, CW and Wong, PF and Rice, D and Jeter, M and Forster, K and Zhu, XR}, title = {Treatment planning system evaluation for mesothelioma IMRT.}, journal = {Lung cancer (Amsterdam, Netherlands)}, volume = {49 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {S75-81}, doi = {10.1016/j.lungcan.2005.03.023}, pmid = {15950806}, issn = {0169-5002}, mesh = {Aged ; Combined Modality Therapy ; Humans ; Male ; Mesothelioma/*radiotherapy ; Pleural Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Pneumonectomy ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*instrumentation ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) has been treated with extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) followed by IMRT. IMRT improved radiation dose distributions to the complex operative bed, and preliminary results suggested improved local control compared with conventional treatment planning. IMRT was initially developed on the Corvus treatment planning system. Other treatment planning systems are also IMRT-capable. Treatment plans from several systems were compared to determine the feasibility of using IMRT in a multi-institution trial.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: Treatment plans were generated on Corvus, Eclipse, and Pinnacle for a right-sided MPM after EPP using 6 MV X-rays. Tissue heterogeneity corrections were used in dose calculation. Plans were optimized such that the clinical target volume received 50 Gy in 25 fractions. Dose distributions to the target and normal structures were evaluated. The treatment time and delivery efficiency were estimated.<br><br>RESULTS: Treatment plans could be calculated by all three planning systems without system failure. Larger volumes received 60Gy in Corvus plans (40%, 17% and 8% for Corvus, Pinnacle and Eclipse, respectively). Corvus used the most monitor units (2786 versus 1451 and 1813 for Pinnacle and Eclipse), and treated the most segments (1050 versus 267 and 173 for Pinnacle and Eclipse). Doses to spinal cord, lung, heart, liver, and contralateral kidney were acceptable for all planning systems.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: IMRT plans can be calculated for MPM targets by at least three commonly available treatment planning systems. Pinnacle- and Eclipse-based plans seem more efficient, and may be delivered in a shorter time than Corvus-based plans.}, }
@article {pmid15936580, year = {2005}, author = {Guerrero, M and Li, XA and Ma, L and Linder, J and Deyoung, C and Erickson, B}, title = {Simultaneous integrated intensity-modulated radiotherapy boost for locally advanced gynecological cancer: radiobiological and dosimetric considerations.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {62}, number = {3}, pages = {933-939}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijrobp.2004.11.040}, pmid = {15936580}, issn = {0360-3016}, mesh = {Female ; Genital Neoplasms, Female/pathology/*radiotherapy ; Humans ; *Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; Relative Biological Effectiveness ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: Whole-pelvis irradiation (WPI) followed by a boost to the tumor site is the standard of practice for the radiotherapeutic management of locally advanced gynecologic cancers. The boost is frequently administered by use of brachytherapy or, occasionally, external-beam radiotherapy (EBRT) when brachytherapy does not provide sufficient coverage because of the size of the tumor or the geometry of the patient. In this work, we propose using an intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) simultaneous integrated boost (SIB), which is a single-phase process, to replace the conventional two-phase process involving WPI plus a boost. Radiobiological modeling is used to design appropriate regimens for the IMRT SIB. To demonstrate feasibility, a dosimetric study is carried out on an example patient.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: The standard linear-quadratic (LQ) model is used to calculate the biologically effective dose (BED) and equivalent uniform dose (EUD). A series of regimens that are biologically equivalent to those conventional two-phase treatments is calculated for the proposed SIB. A commercial inverse planning system (Corvus) was used to generate IMRT SIB plans for a sample patient case that used the newly designed fractionations. The dose-volume histogram (DVH) and EUD of both the target and normal structures for conventional treatments and the SIB are compared. A sparing factor was introduced to characterize the sparing of normal structures.<br><br>RESULTS: Fractionation regimes that are equivalent to the conventional treatments and are suitable for the IMRT SIB are deduced. For example, a SIB plan with 25 x 3.1 Gy (77.5 Gy) to a tumor is equivalent to a conventional treatment of EBRT of 45 Gy to the whole pelvis in 25 fractions plus a high-dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy boost with 30 Gy in 5 fractions. The normal tissue BED is found to be lower for the SIB plan than for the whole-pelvis plus HDR scheme when a sparing factor for the critical structures is considered. This finding suggests that the IMRT SIB has a better therapeutic ratio. Three IMRT SIB plans with 25 x 1.8 Gy to the pelvic nodes and 25 x 2.4 Gy (60 Gy), 25 x 2.8 Gy (70 Gy), and 25 x 3.2 Gy (80 Gy) to the tumor site were generated for the example patient case. The target coverage ranged from 94% to 95.5%. The sparing of bladder and rectum is significantly improved with the 60 to 70 Gy SIB treatments, as compared with the conventional treatments. The proposed SIB treatment can reduce the treatment time to 5 weeks.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: An IMRT simultaneous integrated boost to replace the conventional two-phase treatments (whole pelvic irradiation followed by brachytherapy or EBRT boost) is radiobiologically and dosimetricaly feasible for locally advanced gynecological cancers that may not be amenable to brachytherapy for anatomic or medical reasons. In addition to its shorter treatment time, the proposed IMRT SIB can provide significant sparing to normal structures, which offers potential for dose escalation. Issues such as organ motion and changing anatomy as tumor responds still must be addressed.}, }
@article {pmid15933313, year = {2005}, author = {West, J and Wright, J and Tuffnell, D and Jankowicz, D and West, R}, title = {Do clinical trials improve quality of care? A comparison of clinical processes and outcomes in patients in a clinical trial and similar patients outside a trial where both groups are managed according to a strict protocol.}, journal = {Quality &amp; safety in health care}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {175-178}, pmid = {15933313}, issn = {1475-3901}, mesh = {*Clinical Protocols ; Drug Monitoring ; England ; Female ; Humans ; Magnesium Sulfate/pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Obstetrics ; Patient Participation ; *Patient Selection ; *Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Pre-Eclampsia/*therapy ; Pregnancy ; *Process Assessment, Health Care ; Research Design ; Therapeutic Human Experimentation ; *Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The conventional view that participants in randomised controlled trials sacrifice themselves for the good of future patients is challenged by increasing evidence to suggest that individual patients benefit from participation in trials.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To test the hypothesis that trial participants receive higher quality care and, as a consequence, have better outcomes than patients receiving guideline driven routine care.<br><br>METHODS: Retrospective comparative study of 408 women with pre-eclampsia all managed according to a strict protocol. Trial participants were 86 women who participated in a multicentre randomised controlled trial of magnesium sulphate for the treatment of pre-eclampsia (Magpie Trial); 322 non-participants formed the control group. Indicators of the process of care and clinical outcomes were compared between the two groups.<br><br>RESULTS: Trial participants were significantly more likely to have received daily blood tests (odds ratio (OR) 6.82, 95% CI 1.62 to 28.72) and had their respiration rate measured hourly (OR 3.42, 95% CI 1.69 to 6.92) than control patients. There were no significant differences in other markers of clinical process and no significant difference in clinical outcomes.<br><br>CONCLUSION: This study shows minor differences in process markers and no difference in clinical outcomes between patients in a clinical trial and patients receiving protocol driven care. The benefits of improved clinical care that have previously been associated with being in a trial may be explained by the use of clear clinical protocols. In routine practice, patients may be well advised to insist on treatment as part of a protocol.}, }
@article {pmid15932902, year = {2005}, author = {Gore, SP and Burke, DF and Blundell, TL}, title = {PROVAT: a tool for Voronoi tessellation analysis of protein structures and complexes.}, journal = {Bioinformatics (Oxford, England)}, volume = {21}, number = {15}, pages = {3316-3317}, doi = {10.1093/bioinformatics/bti523}, pmid = {15932902}, issn = {1367-4803}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Binding Sites ; Computer Graphics ; Computer Simulation ; *Models, Chemical ; *Models, Molecular ; Protein Binding ; Protein Conformation ; Proteins/analysis/*chemistry ; Sequence Analysis, Protein/*methods ; *Software ; *User-Computer Interface ; }, abstract = {SUMMARY: Voronoi tessellation has proved to be a useful tool in protein structure analysis. We have developed PROVAT, a versatile public domain software that enables computation and visualization of Voronoi tessellations of proteins and protein complexes. It is a set of Python scripts that integrate freely available specialized software (Qhull, Pymol etc.) into a pipeline. The calculation component of the tool computes Voronoi tessellation of a given protein system in a way described by a user-supplied XML recipe and stores resulting neighbourhood information as text files with various styles. The Python pickle file generated in the process is used by the visualization component, a Pymol plug-in, that offers a GUI to explore the tessellation visually.<br><br>AVAILABILITY: PROVAT source code can be downloaded from http://raven.bioc.cam.ac.uk/~swanand/Provat1, which also provides a webserver for its calculation component, documentation and examples.}, }
@article {pmid15931994, year = {2005}, author = {Hamilton, SJ and Buhl, KJ}, title = {Selenium in the Blackfoot, Salt, and Bear river watersheds.}, journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment}, volume = {104}, number = {1-3}, pages = {309-339}, pmid = {15931994}, issn = {0167-6369}, mesh = {Animals ; Fishes ; Fresh Water/*analysis ; Geologic Sediments/chemistry ; Idaho ; Invertebrates/chemistry ; Mining ; Plants/chemistry ; *Rivers ; Selenium/*analysis ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Water Pollutants, Chemical/*analysis ; }, abstract = {Nine stream sites in the Blackfoot River, Salt River, and Bear River watersheds in southeast Idaho, USA were sampled in May 2001 for water, surficial sediment, aquatic plants, aquatic invertebrates, and fish. Selenium was measured in these aquatic ecosystem components, and a hazard assessment was performed on the data. Water quality characteristics such as pH, hardness, and specific conductance were relatively uniform among the nine sites. Of the aquatic components assessed, water was the least contaminated with selenium because measured concentrations were below the national water quality criterion of 5 microg/L at eight of the nine sites. In contrast, selenium was elevated in sediment, aquatic plants, aquatic invertebrates, and fish from several sites, suggesting deposition in sediments and food web cycling through plants and invertebrates. Selenium was elevated to concentrations of concern in fish at eight sites (> 4 microg/g in whole body). A hazard assessment of selenium in the aquatic environment suggested a moderate hazard at upper Angus Creek (UAC) and Smoky Creek (SC), and high hazard at Little Blackfoot River (LiB), Blackfoot River gaging station (BGS), State Land Creek (SLC), upper (UGC) and lower Georgetown Creek (LGC), Deer Creek (DC), and Crow Creek (CC). The results of this study indicate that selenium concentrations from the phosphate mining area of southeast Idaho were sufficiently eleated in several ecosystem components to cause adverse effects to aquatic resources in southeastern Idaho.}, }
@article {pmid15931283, year = {2003}, author = {Meece, JK and Henkel, JS and Glaser, L and Reed, KD}, title = {Mosquito surveillance for West Nile virus in southeastern Wisconsin--2002.}, journal = {Clinical medicine &amp; research}, volume = {1}, number = {1}, pages = {37-42}, pmid = {15931283}, issn = {1539-4182}, mesh = {Animals ; Culicidae/classification/*virology ; Insect Vectors/virology ; *Mosquito Control ; Pilot Projects ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/*transmission ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; Wisconsin/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {In 2001, West Nile virus (WNV) was identified among dead American crows and bluejays in five counties in southeastern Wisconsin. In response to the introduction of WNV, a pilot mosquito surveillance program was initiated in these five southeastern Wisconsin counties during the summer of 2002. Forty sites were selected for surveillance one night each week during a 17-week period. Mosquitoes were collected in carbon dioxide-baited light traps and gravid traps. During the study period 31,419 mosquitoes were collected, identified to species level and pooled into groups of up to 50 mosquitoes of like species from each collection site. Twenty-five different mosquito species were identified with the common pest mosquitoes, Aedes vexans and Ochlerotatus trivittatus, being the most abundant. Seventeen of the 25 mosquito species found in southeastern Wisconsin have previously been shown to be carriers of WNV in other parts of the U.S. Only 2/1,592 (0.126%) mosquito pools from Wisconsin were positive for WNV by cell culture and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Active mosquito surveillance is useful for identifying potential mosquito vectors of arboviruses in defined geographic areas, and to monitor population densities of those vectors. This information coupled with infection rate data can help guide public health policies related to vector control, and may help reduce the impact on human, veterinary and bird mortality.}, }
@article {pmid15920983, year = {2005}, author = {Ayyangar, KM and Fung, AY and Li, S and Pillai, S and Yoe-Sein, MM and Zhen, W and Enke, CA}, title = {Dose volume histogram comparison between ADAC Pinnacle and Nomos Corvus systems for IMRT.}, journal = {Australasian physical &amp; engineering sciences in medicine}, volume = {28}, number = {1}, pages = {1-7}, doi = {10.1007/BF03178857}, pmid = {15920983}, issn = {0158-9938}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Body Burden ; Computer Simulation ; Head and Neck Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Humans ; Male ; Models, Biological ; Prostatic Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Radiometry/*methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; Relative Biological Effectiveness ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; *Software ; }, abstract = {This paper compares dose volume histograms (DVHs) generated by the ADAC Pinnacle and the Nomos Corvus planning systems. Seven prostate cases and seven head and neck cases were selected for review. Plans computed on both systems possessed exactly the same anatomical contours and IMRT segments. The Pinnacle system used the collapsed cone convolution superposition, while Corvus employed a finite size pencil beam (FSPB) convolution. Prostate DVH results demonstrated similar DVH curves from both systems. For each structure, the ratio of Pinnacle dose value divided by Corvus value was calculated. The high dose structures (which might contain tumour) had ratios close to unity, while the low dose structures (the critical organs) had ratios farther away from unity. Almost all ratios were less than unity, indicating a systematic difference that Pinnacle calculated doses were lower than Corvus ones. Head and neck data provided similar findings. A possible cause for this discrepancy could be the beam modelling. The difference in DVH parameters that we discovered between the two systems was about the same order of magnitude as the measurement-computation difference. When low dose is critical, such difference may affect the clinical planning decision.}, }
@article {pmid15917871, year = {2005}, author = {Eisen, A and Batzli, JM and Becker, D and Fambrough, DM and Pearlman, R and Shingles, R and Brosnan, R and Ledbetter, ML and Campbell, AM}, title = {Points of view: a survey of survey courses: are they effective?.}, journal = {Cell biology education}, volume = {4}, number = {2}, pages = {123-137}, pmid = {15917871}, issn = {1536-7509}, mesh = {Biology/*education ; Computer-Assisted Instruction ; Curriculum ; Data Collection ; Education, Medical, Undergraduate ; Educational Measurement/*methods ; Humans ; Problem-Based Learning ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Teaching ; Universities ; }, abstract = {Note from the Editors Points of View (POV) addresses issues faced by many people within the life science education community. Cell Biology Education (CBE) publishes the POV Feature to present two or more opinions published in tandem on a common topic. We consider POVs to be “Op-Ed” pieces designed to stimulate thought and dialogue on significant educational issues. Each author had the opportunity to revise or add to his/her POV after reading drafts of the other's POV. In this issue, we ask the question, “Are survey courses still viable for introductory biology?” The POV question is related to the ones asked by the National Research Council in the recent feature by Jay Labov (www.cellbioed.org/articles/vol3no4/article.cfm?articleID=132) and continues to be a subject of debate by many science departments, not just biology. Often the discussion is split not only by perceived value of the survey course, but also by the size of the institution. Therefore, we present four POVs, plus a framing POV to set the tone. The overview was written by Arri Eisen, who is a senior lecturer in Emory University's Biology Department and the director of the Program in Science &amp; Society. Representing the Anti-Survey, Large University is Janet M. Batzli, Associate Director of the nontraditional Biology Core Curriculum at the University of Wisconsin at Madison. The Anti-Survey, Small College perspective is presented by David Becker, who is an Associate Professor and Magdalena R. and John P. Dexter Professor of Botany in the Department of Biology at Pomona College. Presenting the Pro-Survey, Large University perspective is Douglas M. Fambrough, Professor of Biology at The Johns Hopkins Department of Biology and Scientific Director of the Searle Scholars Program. Finally, the Pro-Survey, Small College POV was coauthored by Mary Lee Ledbetter and A. Malcolm Campbell. Ledbetter is a Professor of Biology at College of the Holy Cross and a 2003 NSF Director's Award recipient. Campbell is an Associate Professor of Biology at Davidson College and a co-Editor-in-Chief of CBE. Readers are encouraged to compare the authors' perspectives and share their thoughts and reactions using the online discussion forum hosted by CBE at http://www.cellbioed.org/discussion/public/main.cfm.}, }
@article {pmid15915630, year = {2004}, author = {Priya, R and Manjunath, KY and Balasubramanyam, }, title = {The varying shape of the coronoid process of the mandible.}, journal = {Indian journal of dental research : official publication of Indian Society for Dental Research}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {96-98}, pmid = {15915630}, issn = {0970-9290}, mesh = {Adult ; Cephalometry ; Humans ; Mandible/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {The coronoid process (meaning crow) is a flattened triangular bony process of the ramus of the mandible. It is usually directed upwards and slightly forwards in the living subject. The coronoid process is of clinical significance to the maxillofacial surgeon for reconstructive purposes. Several authors have described the varying shapes of the process. In the present study, the variable shape and surface area of the coronoid process were observed in a collection of 154 south Indian mandibles. Using the criterion proposed by Isaac and Holla (2001), the coronoid process of each side was inspected for the shape and direction, and surface area of the ramus and the coronoid process was also calculated. The shape of the coronoid process was bilaterally triangular in 16.2%, hook-shaped in 45.5%, rounded in 18.2% rounded and hook-shaped in 4.5%, and unilaterally triangular in 12.3%, hook-shaped in 11.7%, and rounded in 7.1% of the mandibles. The coronoid processes faced directly upward in 55.4%, forward in 40.7% and backward in 3.8% of the mandible.}, }
@article {pmid15896534, year = {2005}, author = {Yosef, R and Pinshow, B}, title = {Impaling in true shrikes (Laniidae): a behavioral and ontogenetic perspective.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {69}, number = {3}, pages = {363-367}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2005.02.023}, pmid = {15896534}, issn = {0376-6357}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Male ; Predatory Behavior/*physiology ; Raptors/*physiology ; Sexual Behavior, Animal ; Species Specificity ; Territoriality ; }, abstract = {The impaling of prey is a behavioral trait restricted to the true shrikes (Laniidae). Here, we suggest the ontogeny of this behavior. We believe impaling originated from wedging behavior that occurs among several other groups of birds, including corvids. Accidental impaling during wedging was likely the behavioral precursor of purposeful impaling. Fidelity to impaling sites lead to the creation of caches, which were eventually used by females for male evaluation. Caching allowed males to increase their fitness by using the caches as a display to attract potential mates. Further, caching is used by shrikes to demarcate territories, store food for inclement weather or periods of stress in the breeding cycle, divide labor between the breeding pair, and for "aging" while deterrent chemicals in prey decompose.}, }
@article {pmid15896533, year = {2005}, author = {Izawa, E and Kusayama, T and Watanabe, S}, title = {Foot-use laterality in the Japanese jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {69}, number = {3}, pages = {357-362}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2005.02.001}, pmid = {15896533}, issn = {0376-6357}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Female ; *Foot ; Functional Laterality/*physiology ; Male ; }, abstract = {Laterality of foot-use behaviour was examined in jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos). Consistency of laterality was also verified in comparison with two different behaviours. One was beak-scratching, and another was food-holding. Significant bias of foot-use laterality was found in 11 of 13 tested subjects for beak-scratching and in 10 of 12 tested subjects for food-holding. Bias of foot-use laterality was not common among footed subjects, suggesting no population-level bias. However, a significant number of footed subjects (10 of 12) who were tested in both behaviours showed consistent laterality irrespective of behavioural differences. These results suggest that jungle crows have strong individual-level laterality in foot-use behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid15896490, year = {2005}, author = {Doppelmayr, M and Klimesch, W and Sauseng, P and Hödlmoser, K and Stadler, W and Hanslmayr, S}, title = {Intelligence related differences in EEG-bandpower.}, journal = {Neuroscience letters}, volume = {381}, number = {3}, pages = {309-313}, doi = {10.1016/j.neulet.2005.02.037}, pmid = {15896490}, issn = {0304-3940}, support = {P 16849/FWF_/Austrian Science Fund FWF/Austria ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Brain/*physiology ; Cortical Synchronization ; Electroencephalography ; Evoked Potentials/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; }, abstract = {Several studies on the relationship between event-related desynchronization/synchronization (ERD/ERS) and cognitive performance revealed contradictory results particularly for the alpha band. Studies from our laboratory have shown that good performers show a larger upper alpha ERD (interpreted in terms of larger cortical activation) than bad performers. In contrast, other researchers found evidence for the neural efficiency hypothesis, which states that more intelligent subjects exhibit a smaller extent of cortical activation, which is assumed to be reflected by a smaller upper alpha ERD. Here we address the question whether these divergent results may be due to differences in general task difficulty. Using a modified version of the RAVEN, individually divided into easy and difficult tasks, a group of average and a group of highly intelligent subjects (IQ- and IQ+) have been investigated. While in the theta frequency IQ+ subjects generally exhibited a significantly stronger activation, we found a significant interaction of task difficulty and IQ group in the upper alpha band, indicating both, a weaker activation for the high IQ group during the easy tasks, and a significant increase from easy to difficult tasks for IQ+ only.}, }
@article {pmid15893478, year = {2005}, author = {Høie, B and Mykletun, A and Sommerfelt, K and Bjørnaes, H and Skeidsvoll, H and Waaler, PE}, title = {Seizure-related factors and non-verbal intelligence in children with epilepsy. A population-based study from Western Norway.}, journal = {Seizure}, volume = {14}, number = {4}, pages = {223-231}, doi = {10.1016/j.seizure.2004.10.006}, pmid = {15893478}, issn = {1059-1311}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Brain/pathology/physiopathology ; Child ; Cognition Disorders/etiology ; Community Health Planning/*methods ; Confidence Intervals ; Demography ; Electroencephalography/methods ; Epilepsy/classification/*epidemiology/*physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Neurologic Examination ; Norway/epidemiology ; Outcome Assessment, Health Care ; Psychological Tests ; Retrospective Studies ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To study the relationship between seizure-related factors, non-verbal intelligence, and socio-economic status (SES) in a population-based sample of children with epilepsy.<br><br>METHODS: The latest ILAE International classifications of epileptic seizures and syndromes were used to classify seizure types and epileptic syndromes in all 6-12 year old children (N=198) with epilepsy in Hordaland County, Norway. The children had neuropediatric and EEG examinations. Of the 198 patients, demographic characteristics were collected on 183 who participated in psychological studies including Raven matrices. 126 healthy controls underwent the same testing. Severe non-verbal problems (SNVP) were defined as a Raven score at or <10th percentile.<br><br>RESULTS: Children with epilepsy were highly over-represented in the lowest Raven percentile group, whereas controls were highly over-represented in the higher percentile groups. SNVP were present in 43% of children with epilepsy and 3% of controls. These problems were especially common in children with remote symptomatic epilepsy aetiology, undetermined epilepsy syndromes, myoclonic seizures, early seizure debut, high seizure frequency and in children with polytherapy. Seizure-related characteristics that were not usually associated with SNVP were idiopathic epilepsies, localization related (LR) cryptogenic epilepsies, absence and simple partial seizures, and a late debut of epilepsy. Adjusting for socio-economic status factors did not significantly change results.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In childhood epilepsy various seizure-related factors, but not SES factors, were associated with the presence or absence of SNVP. Such deficits may be especially common in children with remote symptomatic epilepsy aetiology and in complex and therapy resistant epilepsies. Low frequencies of SNVP may be found in children with idiopathic and LR cryptogenic epilepsy syndromes, simple partial or absence seizures and a late epilepsy debut. Our study contributes to an overall picture of cognitive function and its relation to central seizure characteristics in a childhood epilepsy population and can be useful for the follow-up team in developing therapy strategies that meet the individual needs of the child with epilepsy.}, }
@article {pmid15871314, year = {2005}, author = {Semchyshyn, NL and Kilmer, SL}, title = {Does laser inactivate botulinum toxin?.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {31}, number = {4}, pages = {399-404}, doi = {10.1111/j.1524-4725.2005.31105}, pmid = {15871314}, issn = {1076-0512}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Female ; Humans ; *Laser Therapy ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*therapeutic use ; *Rhytidoplasty ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin is a popular and effective treatment for dynamic rhytids. It is a neurotoxic protein complex that exerts its effect by inhibiting acetylcholine release at the presynaptic neuromuscular junction. Nonablative resurfacing treatments have also become well liked by patients and physicians owing to the minimal downtime associated with treatment. Currently, same-day nonablative laser treatments are performed prior to botulinum toxin injection owing to the concern that the laser may inactivate it. On occasion, it may be desirable to perform nonablative laser after the botulinum toxin has been injected (ie, patient afterthought, scheduling concern).<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the use of nonablative rejuvenation laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) immediately following botulinum toxin injections has any effect on the efficacy of the botulinum toxin treatment.<br><br>METHODS: Nineteen subjects received botulinum toxin injections to either the glabellar or crow's-feet areas. One side of the treated glabellar or periorbital area was treated with either VBeam laser (Candela, Wayland, MA, USA), SmoothBeam laser (Candela), CoolGlide laser (Cutera, Brisbane, CA, USA), or an IPL or radiofrequency (RF) device within 10 minutes of botulinum toxin injection. Pretreatment and 2-week post-treatment photographs were compared.<br><br>RESULTS: No decrease in the efficacy of botulinum toxin denervation was observed when glabellar or perioral areas were treated with VBeam laser, SmoothBeam laser, CoolGlide laser, or an IPL or RF device within 10 minutes of botulinum toxin injection.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Patients may be treated with several nonablative lasers and IPL or RF devices immediately after botulinum toxin injection without loss of efficacy or other apparent untoward effect.}, }
@article {pmid15866326, year = {2005}, author = {Jausovec, N and Jausovec, K}, title = {Differences in induced gamma and upper alpha oscillations in the human brain related to verbal/performance and emotional intelligence.}, journal = {International journal of psychophysiology : official journal of the International Organization of Psychophysiology}, volume = {56}, number = {3}, pages = {223-235}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2004.12.005}, pmid = {15866326}, issn = {0167-8760}, mesh = {Adult ; Algorithms ; *Alpha Rhythm ; Brain/*physiology ; *Electroencephalography ; Emotions/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Language ; Male ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Sex Characteristics ; Verbal Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Participating in the study were 30 respondents, who could be clustered as high-average verbal/performance intelligent (HIQ/AIQ), or emotionally intelligent (HEIQ/AEIQ). The EEG was recorded while students were performing two tasks: the Raven's advanced progressive matrices (RAPM), and identifying emotions in pictures (IDEM). Significant differences in event-related desynchronization/synchronization (ERD/ERS) related to verbal/performance intelligence were only observed while respondents solved the RAPM. The HIQ and AIQ groups displayed temporal and spatial differently induced gamma band activity. Significant differences in ERD/ERS related to emotional intelligence were only observed for the IDEM task. HEIQ individuals displayed more gamma band ERS and less upper alpha band ERD than did AEIQ individuals. It can be concluded that HIQ and HEIQ individuals employed more adequate strategies for solving the problems at hand. The results further suggest that emotional intelligence and verbal/performance intelligence represent distinct components of the cognitive architecture.}, }
@article {pmid15851726, year = {2005}, author = {Dik, MG and Jonker, C and Hack, CE and Smit, JH and Comijs, HC and Eikelenboom, P}, title = {Serum inflammatory proteins and cognitive decline in older persons.}, journal = {Neurology}, volume = {64}, number = {8}, pages = {1371-1377}, doi = {10.1212/01.WNL.0000158281.08946.68}, pmid = {15851726}, issn = {1526-632X}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*metabolism ; Alzheimer Disease/*blood/diagnosis/psychology ; Apolipoprotein E4 ; Apolipoproteins E/genetics ; Biomarkers/blood ; Blood Proteins/immunology/*metabolism ; C-Reactive Protein/metabolism ; Causality ; Cognition Disorders/*blood/diagnosis/psychology ; Disease Progression ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Inflammation Mediators/*blood ; Interleukin-6/blood ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Memory Disorders/blood/diagnosis/physiopathology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Serum Albumin/metabolism ; alpha 1-Antichymotrypsin/*blood ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To assess whether serum levels of the inflammatory proteins alpha(1)-antichymotrypsin (ACT), C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and albumin are associated with cognitive decline in older persons.<br><br>METHODS: The study sample consisted of 1,284 participants in the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam, aged 62 to 85 years. Cognition was assessed on general cognition (Mini-Mental State Examination [MMSE]), memory (Auditory Verbal Learning Test), fluid intelligence (Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices), and information-processing speed (Coding Task) at baseline and at 3-year follow-up.<br><br>RESULTS: The highest tertile of ACT was associated with an increased risk of decline on the MMSE (age-, sex-, education-adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.60; 95% CI: 1.05 to 2.43) but not on any other cognitive test score. CRP, IL-6, and albumin were not associated with cognitive decline on any cognitive test in our study.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This population-based study showed that the serum inflammatory protein alpha1-antichymotrypsin is associated with cognitive decline in older persons, whereas C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and albumin are not.}, }
@article {pmid15851662, year = {2005}, author = {Håstad, O and Victorsson, J and Odeen, A}, title = {Differences in color vision make passerines less conspicuous in the eyes of their predators.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {102}, number = {18}, pages = {6391-6394}, pmid = {15851662}, issn = {0027-8424}, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological ; *Animal Communication ; Animals ; Color Perception/*physiology ; *Environment ; Feathers/*physiology ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; Pigmentation/*physiology ; *Selection, Genetic ; Sex Factors ; Species Specificity ; Spectrophotometry ; Sweden ; }, abstract = {Sexual selection often favors brighter and exaggerated traits, which also increase the risk of detection by predators. Signals that are preferentially conspicuous to conspecifics would reduce the predation cost of signaling and, therefore, might facilitate the evolution of stronger sexual and social signals. This selective signaling is possible if predators and prey have differently tuned sensory systems. By using a retinal model to compare reflectance from the plumages of Swedish songbirds to the reflectance of their natural backgrounds, we found their color badges to be significantly more conspicuous to other songbirds (which have a UV-tuned visual system) than to raptors and corvids (which have a violet-tuned system) in both coniferous and deciduous forests, consistent with an adaptive private communication system.}, }
@article {pmid15851508, year = {2005}, author = {Vandevelde, S and Broekaert, E and Schuyten, G and Van Hove, G}, title = {Intellectual abilities and motivation toward substance abuse treatment in drug-involved offenders: a pilot study in the Belgian criminal justice system.}, journal = {International journal of offender therapy and comparative criminology}, volume = {49}, number = {3}, pages = {277-297}, doi = {10.1177/0306624X04270779}, pmid = {15851508}, issn = {0306-624X}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Belgium ; Criminal Law/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Criminal Psychology/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Internal-External Control ; Male ; *Motivation ; Patient Acceptance of Health Care/*psychology/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Personality Inventory/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Prisoners/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/*psychology/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Prognosis ; Psychometrics ; Substance-Related Disorders/epidemiology/psychology/*rehabilitation ; Violence/psychology/statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {A sample of Belgian drug-involved inmates (N=116) completed the European Addiction Severity Index, the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM), and the Circumstances, Motivation, and Readiness Scales. The pilot results demonstrate that nearly 50% of the participating drug-involved offenders display low intellectual abilities (SPM score definitely below average). Legal difficulties, drug abuse, and psychological problems are identified as the most severe problem areas for the total group. The participants display low to moderately low scores regarding motivation, readiness, and external reasons to stay in or leave treatment. No to very limited correlations between motivational attributes and other variables such as the length of the prison sentence and the number of violent crimes are found. Participants with high intellectual abilities are less motivated to enter substance abuse treatment compared to their counterparts with average and low intellectual abilities. Implications for treatment are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid15846976, year = {2005}, author = {Kovalev, IE and Shipulina, NV}, title = {Characteristic features of metabolism of xenobiotics in the system of cytochrome P-450 in crow (Corvus cornix) liver.}, journal = {Doklady. Biochemistry and biophysics}, volume = {400}, number = {}, pages = {21-23}, pmid = {15846976}, issn = {1607-6729}, mesh = {Animals ; Benzo(a)pyrene/metabolism ; Crows ; Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System/*metabolism ; Liver/drug effects/*enzymology/metabolism ; Mice ; Microsomes, Liver/drug effects/metabolism ; Rabbits ; Rats ; Species Specificity ; Time Factors ; Xenobiotics/*pharmacology ; }, }
@article {pmid15841623, year = {2005}, author = {Lowe, NJ and Ascher, B and Heckmann, M and Kumar, C and Fraczek, S and Eadie, N and , }, title = {Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, dose-response study of the safety and efficacy of botulinum toxin type A in subjects with crow's feet.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {31}, number = {3}, pages = {257-262}, doi = {10.1111/j.1524-4725.2005.31070}, pmid = {15841623}, issn = {1076-0512}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; *Rhytidoplasty ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Published evidence suggests that botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) is an effective treatment for crow's feet. However, few dose-ranging studies have been performed.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: To assess the safety and efficacy of a single treatment with one of four doses of BTX-A (Botox/Vistabel, Allergan Inc) compared with placebo for the improvement of crow's feet.<br><br>METHODS: Subjects received a single bilateral treatment of 18, 12, 6, or 3 U of BTX-A or placebo injected into the lateral aspect of the orbicularis oculi muscle (parallel-group, double-blind design). Investigators and subjects rated crow's feet severity at maximum smile on day 7 and at 30-day intervals from days 30 to 180.<br><br>RESULTS: As observed by both investigators and subjects, all doses of BTX-A resulted in improvements in crow's feet severity when compared with placebo. A dose-dependent treatment effect for efficacy was observed, with higher doses having an increased magnitude and duration of effect. However, a clear differentiation between the 18 U and 12 U doses was not apparent. Few adverse events were reported, with no statistically significant differences between BTX-A and placebo in the incidence of subjects experiencing adverse events.<br><br>CONCLUSION: BTX-A is safe and effective in decreasing the severity of crow's feet, with 12 U per side suggested as the most appropriate dose.}, }
@article {pmid15839770, year = {2005}, author = {Clayton, NS and Dally, J and Gilbert, J and Dickinson, A}, title = {Food caching by western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) is sensitive to the conditions at recovery.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Animal behavior processes}, volume = {31}, number = {2}, pages = {115-124}, doi = {10.1037/0097-7403.31.2.115}, pmid = {15839770}, issn = {0097-7403}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Birds ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; Memory ; Reinforcement, Psychology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) cached perishable and nonperishable food items, which they could recover after both short and long retention intervals. When perishable items were always degraded at recovery, jays decreased the number of perishable items cached and increased their caching of nonperishable items, relative to a control group whose caches were always fresh at recovery. Jays reduced the number of nonperishable items cached, however, when highly preferred food items were degraded only after the long retention intervals. The findings are discussed in terms of the role of retrospective and prospective processes in the control of caching.}, }
@article {pmid15831180, year = {2005}, author = {Ripley, K and Yuill, N}, title = {Patterns of language impairment and behaviour in boys excluded from school.}, journal = {The British journal of educational psychology}, volume = {75}, number = {Pt 1}, pages = {37-50}, doi = {10.1348/000709905X27696}, pmid = {15831180}, issn = {0007-0998}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Child Behavior Disorders/*epidemiology ; Child Language ; Humans ; Language Disorders/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Language Tests ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Nonverbal Communication ; Student Dropouts/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: High levels of behaviour problems are found in children with language impairments, but less is known about the level and nature of language impairment in children with severe behavioural problems. In particular, previous data suggest that at primary age, receptive impairments are more closely related to behaviour problems, whereas expressive language has a closer link at a later age.<br><br>AIMS: The study assessed expressive and receptive language problems in boys excluded from primary and secondary schools, to investigate the extent of impairment, the pattern of relations between age, receptive and expressive language, and relations with different aspects of behaviour.<br><br>SAMPLE: Nineteen boys (8 - 16 years of age) who had been excluded from school and 19 non-excluded controls matched for age and school participated.<br><br>METHOD: The sample was given assessments of: receptive language from the British Picture Vocabulary Scale (BPVS), and Wechsler Objective Language Dimensions (WOLD); expressive-language evaluations from the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC); auditory working memory evaluations from the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals (CELF); verbal reasoning (from the WISC); and non-verbal IQ assessments Raven's matrices. Teachers completed behaviour ratings using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ).<br><br>RESULTS: Excluded boys were significantly poorer than controls on expressive measures but similar on receptive language and non-verbal IQ. Boys excluded from primary school were poorer than controls on auditory working memory. Expressive problems were linked with high levels of emotional symptoms.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Many of the excluded boys had previously unidentified language problems, supporting the need for early recognition and assessment of language in boys with behaviour problems. Expressive problems in particular may be a risk factor.}, }
@article {pmid15828579, year = {2005}, author = {Butcher, AR and Grove, DI}, title = {Second intermediate host land snails and definitive host animals of Brachylaima cribbi in southern Australia.}, journal = {Parasite (Paris, France)}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {31-37}, doi = {10.1051/parasite/2005121031}, pmid = {15828579}, issn = {1252-607X}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Birds ; Ducks ; Female ; Host-Parasite Interactions ; Lizards/*parasitology ; Male ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Mice, Inbred NOD ; Mice, SCID ; Phylogeny ; Rats ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; Rodent Diseases/*parasitology ; Snails/*parasitology ; South Australia ; Species Specificity ; Trematoda/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification ; Trematode Infections/parasitology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {This study of infection of southern Australian land snails with Brachylaima cribbi metacercariae has shown that all commonly encountered native and introduced snails are susceptible second intermediate hosts. The range of infected snails is extensive with metacercariae-infected snails being present in all districts across southern Australia. C. virgata has the highest average natural metacercarial infection intensity of 6.1 metacercariae per infected snail. The susceptibility of birds, mammals and reptiles to B. cribbi infection was studied in South Australia by capturing, dissecting and examining the intestinal tract contents of animals which commonly eat land snails as a food source. Indigenous Australian little ravens (Corvus mellori), which are a common scavenger bird, and two other passeriform birds, the black bird (Turdus merula) and the starling (Sturnus vulgaris), which are both introduced European birds, were found to have the highest infection rates of all animals examined. Other birds found infected with B. cribbi were an emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae), chickens (Gallus gallus) and a pigeon (Columba livia). Natural infections were also detected in field mice (Mus domesticus) and shingleback lizards (Tiliqua rugosa) although the intensity of infection was lower than that observed in birds. Susceptibility studies of laboratory mice, rats and ducks showed that mice developed patent infections which persisted for several weeks, rats developed a short-lived infection of three weeks' duration and ducks did not support infection. This study has shown for the first time that a brachylaimid can infect a wide host range of birds, mammals and reptiles in nature.}, }
@article {pmid15827222, year = {2005}, author = {Rocke, TE and Thomas, NJ and Meteyer, CU and Quist, CF and Fischer, JR and Augspurger, T and Ward, SE}, title = {Attempts to identify the source of avian vacuolar myelinopathy for waterbirds.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {41}, number = {1}, pages = {163-170}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-41.1.163}, pmid = {15827222}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animal Feed/*adverse effects ; Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Bird Diseases/*etiology/pathology ; Birds ; Brain/pathology ; Central Nervous System Diseases/etiology/pathology/*veterinary ; Disease Models, Animal ; Female ; *Food Contamination ; Fresh Water ; Male ; Random Allocation ; Vacuoles/pathology ; }, abstract = {Attempts were made to reproduce avian vacuolar myelinopathy (AVM) in a number of test animals in order to determine the source of the causative agent for birds and to find a suitable animal model for future studies. Submerged vegetation, plankton, invertebrates, forage fish, and sediments were collected from three lakes with ongoing outbreaks of AVM and fed to American coots (Fulica americana), mallard ducks and ducklings (Anas platyrhynchos), quail (Coturnix japonica), and laboratory mice either via gavage or ad libitum. Tissues from AVM-affected coots with brain lesions were fed to ducklings, kestrels (Falco sparverius), and American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos). Two mallards that ingested one sample of Hydrilla verticillata along with any biotic or abiotic material associated with its external surface developed brain lesions consistent with AVM, although neither of the ducks had clinical signs of disease. Ingestion of numerous other samples of Hydrilla from the AVM affected lakes and a lake with no prior history of AVM, other materials (sediments, algae, fish, invertebrates, and water from affected lakes), or tissues from AVM-affected birds did not produce either clinical signs or brain lesions in any of the other test animals in our studies. These results suggest that waterbirds are most likely exposed to the causative agent of AVM while feeding on aquatic vegetation, but we do not believe the vegetation itself is the agent. We hypothesize that the causative agent of AVM might either be accumulated by aquatic vegetation, such as Hydrilla, or associated with biotic or abiotic material on its external surfaces. In support of that hypothesis, two coots that ingested Hydrilla sampled from a lake with an ongoing AVM outbreak in wild birds developed neurologic signs within 9 days (ataxia, limb weakness, and incoordination), and one of two coots that ingested Hydrilla collected from the same site 13 days later became sick and died within 38 days. None of these three sick coots had definitive brain lesions consistent with AVM by light microscopy, but they had no gross or histologic lesions in other tissues. It is unclear if these birds died of AVM. Perhaps they did not ingest a dose sufficient to produce brain lesions or the lesions were ultrastructural. Alternatively, it is possible that a separate neurotoxic agent is responsible for the morbidity and mortality observed in these coots.}, }
@article {pmid15826476, year = {2005}, author = {Carbajo, M and García-Caballero, M and Toledano, M and Osorio, D and García-Lanza, C and Carmona, JA}, title = {One-anastomosis gastric bypass by laparoscopy: results of the first 209 patients.}, journal = {Obesity surgery}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {398-404}, doi = {10.1381/0960892053576677}, pmid = {15826476}, issn = {0960-8923}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Anastomosis, Surgical/adverse effects/*methods ; Anemia, Iron-Deficiency/etiology ; Blood Loss, Surgical ; Body Mass Index ; Cause of Death ; Cross Infection/etiology ; Esophagogastric Junction/surgery ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Gastric Bypass/adverse effects/*methods ; Humans ; Jejunum/surgery ; Laparoscopy/*methods ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Obesity, Morbid/surgery ; Pneumonia/etiology ; Postoperative Complications ; Pulmonary Embolism/etiology ; Quality of Life ; Reoperation ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: One-Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB) by laparoscopy consists of constructing a divided 25-ml (estimated) gastric pouch between the esophago-gastric junction and the crow's foot level, parallel to the lesser curvature, which is anastomosed latero-laterally to a jejunal loop 200 cm distal to the ligament of Treitz.<br><br>METHODS: The results of our first 209 OAGB patients operated from July 2002 to June 2004 are reported. Mean age was 41 years (14-66), BMI 48 (39-86) and mean excess body weight 66 kg (35-220). In 144 patients, OAGB was the only operation performed, and in 61 patients it was accompanied by other surgery (18 cholecystectomies, 5 incisional hernia repairs, and 38 adhesiolysis), and in 4 patients a restrictive bariatric operation had been performed previously.<br><br>RESULTS: 2 patients (0.9%) were converted to open surgery due to uncontrollable bleeding. 3 patients (1.4%) needed re-operation in the immediate postoperative period. 5 patients (2.3%) needed prolonged hospital stay due to acute pancreatitis in 1 and anastomotic leakage in 4, all resolving with conservative treatment. 2 patients died (0.9%), 1 from fulminant pulmonary thromboembolism and 1 from nosocomial pneumonia. Long-term complications have occurred in only 2 patients who developed clinically significant iron-deficiency anemia. Mean excess weight loss was 75% after 1 year and >80% at 2 years.<br><br>CONCLUSION: OAGB is a simple, safe and effective operation with less perioperative risk than conventional gastric bypass, quicker return to normal activities, and better quality of life.}, }
@article {pmid15801583, year = {2004}, author = {Dally, JM and Emery, NJ and Clayton, NS}, title = {Cache protection strategies by western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica): hiding food in the shade.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {271 Suppl 6}, number = {Suppl 6}, pages = {S387-90}, pmid = {15801583}, issn = {0962-8452}, support = {MH2602/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; NS35465-05/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; *Light ; Observation ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; *Social Behavior ; Video Recording ; }, abstract = {In the presence of conspecifics, food-caching western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) implement a variety of strategies to reduce the chances of cache theft. This experiment aimed to determine whether the jays could exploit an environmental variable, the level of ambient light, to reduce the transfer of visual information to potential pilferers. Each jay was allowed to cache non-degradable food in two trays, one of which was well lit, whereas the other was in shadow. In some trials the birds cached in private and in others they were observed; however, they always recovered their caches in private. When observed the jays preferentially cached in the shaded tray, whereas both trays were used equally when caching in private. By caching in shaded sites, the quality and transfer of visual information available to the observer may be reduced, thereby making the location of cache sites less certain. These results suggest that western scrub-jays may selectively cache in the shade as a strategy to reduce the chance of cache theft by observing conspecifics.}, }
@article {pmid15798262, year = {2005}, author = {Boudreau, C and Heath, E and Seuntjens, J and Ballivy, O and Parker, W}, title = {IMRT head and neck treatment planning with a commercially available Monte Carlo based planning system.}, journal = {Physics in medicine and biology}, volume = {50}, number = {5}, pages = {879-890}, doi = {10.1088/0031-9155/50/5/012}, pmid = {15798262}, issn = {0031-9155}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Calibration ; Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation ; Electrons ; Head and Neck Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Humans ; Monte Carlo Method ; Phantoms, Imaging ; Radiation Dosage ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; Software ; }, abstract = {The PEREGRINE Monte Carlo dose-calculation system (North American Scientific, Cranberry Township, PA) is the first commercially available Monte Carlo dose-calculation code intended specifically for intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) treatment planning and quality assurance. In order to assess the impact of Monte Carlo based dose calculations for IMRT clinical cases, dose distributions for 11 head and neck patients were evaluated using both PEREGRINE and the CORVUS (North American Scientific, Cranberry Township, PA) finite size pencil beam (FSPB) algorithm with equivalent path-length (EPL) inhomogeneity correction. For the target volumes, PEREGRINE calculations predict, on average, a less than 2% difference in the calculated mean and maximum doses to the gross tumour volume (GTV) and clinical target volume (CTV). An average 16% +/- 4% and 12% +/- 2% reduction in the volume covered by the prescription isodose line was observed for the GTV and CTV, respectively. Overall, no significant differences were noted in the doses to the mandible and spinal cord. For the parotid glands, PEREGRINE predicted a 6% +/- 1% increase in the volume of tissue receiving a dose greater than 25 Gy and an increase of 4% +/- 1% in the mean dose. Similar results were noted for the brainstem where PEREGRINE predicted a 6% +/- 2% increase in the mean dose. The observed differences between the PEREGRINE and CORVUS calculated dose distributions are attributed to secondary electron fluence perturbations, which are not modelled by the EPL correction, issues of organ outlining, particularly in the vicinity of air cavities, and differences in dose reporting (dose to water versus dose to tissue type).}, }
@article {pmid15798261, year = {2005}, author = {Yang, J and Li, J and Chen, L and Price, R and McNeeley, S and Qin, L and Wang, L and Xiong, W and Ma, CM}, title = {Dosimetric verification of IMRT treatment planning using Monte Carlo simulations for prostate cancer.}, journal = {Physics in medicine and biology}, volume = {50}, number = {5}, pages = {869-878}, doi = {10.1088/0031-9155/50/5/011}, pmid = {15798261}, issn = {0031-9155}, mesh = {Computer Simulation ; Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation ; Femur/pathology ; Humans ; Male ; Monte Carlo Method ; Particle Accelerators/*instrumentation ; Phantoms, Imaging ; Prostatic Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Radiometry/*methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; Software ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this work is to investigate the accuracy of dose calculation of a commercial treatment planning system (Corvus, Normos Corp., Sewickley, PA). In this study, 30 prostate intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) treatment plans from the commercial treatment planning system were recalculated using the Monte Carlo method. Dose-volume histograms and isodose distributions were compared. Other quantities such as minimum dose to the target (D(min)), the dose received by 98% of the target volume (D98), dose at the isocentre (D(iso)), mean target dose (D(mean)) and the maximum critical structure dose (D(max)) were also evaluated based on our clinical criteria. For coplanar plans, the dose differences between Monte Carlo and the commercial treatment planning system with and without heterogeneity correction were not significant. The differences in the isocentre dose between the commercial treatment planning system and Monte Carlo simulations were less than 3% for all coplanar cases. The differences on D98 were less than 2% on average. The differences in the mean dose to the target between the commercial system and Monte Carlo results were within 3%. The differences in the maximum bladder dose were within 3% for most cases. The maximum dose differences for the rectum were less than 4% for all the cases. For non-coplanar plans, the difference in the minimum target dose between the treatment planning system and Monte Carlo calculations was up to 9% if the heterogeneity correction was not applied in Corvus. This was caused by the excessive attenuation of the non-coplanar beams by the femurs. When the heterogeneity correction was applied in Corvus, the differences were reduced significantly. These results suggest that heterogeneity correction should be used in dose calculation for prostate cancer with non-coplanar beam arrangements.}, }
@article {pmid15793459, year = {2005}, author = {Rubino, C and Farace, F and Dessy, LA and Sanna, MP and Mazzarello, V}, title = {A prospective study of anti-aging topical therapies using a quantitative method of assessment.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {115}, number = {4}, pages = {1156-62; discussion 1163-4}, doi = {10.1097/01.prs.0000156142.12128.81}, pmid = {15793459}, issn = {1529-4242}, mesh = {Adult ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Glycolates/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Humans ; Keratolytic Agents/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Middle Aged ; Prospective Studies ; Skin/ultrastructure ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Vitamins/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In the treatment of photoaged skin, glycolic acid works by removing superficial portions of the epidermis and stimulating dermis regeneration. Vitamins A, C, and E should stimulate collagen production and antioxidants should prevent free radical damage and skin aging. However, the effectiveness of different therapies has often relied on subjective methods of assessment. Histologic analysis has seldom been used because of the drawback of permanent scarring. In the literature, the use of a quantitative method for the assessment of facial rejuvenation has been described: the silicone replica technique. The authors' aim was to promote and recommend the use of this technique and, in particular, to test the effect of glycolic acid and multivitamin- and antioxidant-based products on skin texture.<br><br>METHODS: The authors performed a prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled study on 30 women treated topically in the outer canthal region (crow's-feet area). Patients were divided into three groups (groups A, B, and C); each group consisted of five patients between the ages of 31 and 40 years and five patients between the ages of 41 and 50 years. Group A was treated by glycolic acid application, initially at home for 2 weeks, followed by a higher concentration administered in the office weekly for six applications. Group B was treated by topical application at home of a multivitamin product daily for 3 months. Group C was treated with a cream base (placebo) for 3 months and represented the control group. Skin areas under treatment were photographed and reproduced by the silicone replica technique at baseline and at the end of treatment. This technique reproduces exactly the skin's texture. Digital images were obtained from skin replicas and analyzed by specific software for different parameters: roughness, microsulcus number, and width. Pretreatment and posttreatment values were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.<br><br>RESULTS: In group A, microsulcus number and width were statistically decreased, but roughness was not. In groups B and C, parameters were not statistically modified.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The silicone replica technique allowed a quantitative analysis of results obtained with different topical therapies. In particular, it confirmed the efficacy of glycolic acid in skin rejuvenation.}, }
@article {pmid15788009, year = {2005}, author = {Lagrou, K and Van Eldere, J and Keuleers, S and Hagen, F and Merckx, R and Verhaegen, J and Peetermans, WE and Boekhout, T}, title = {Zoonotic transmission of Cryptococcus neoformans from a magpie to an immunocompetent patient.}, journal = {Journal of internal medicine}, volume = {257}, number = {4}, pages = {385-388}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2796.2005.01466.x}, pmid = {15788009}, issn = {0954-6820}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Birds/*microbiology ; Cryptococcus neoformans/*isolation &amp; purification ; Disease Reservoirs ; Female ; Humans ; Immunocompetence ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Meningitis, Cryptococcal/diagnosis/immunology/*transmission ; Zoonoses ; }, abstract = {We report a case of cryptococcal meningitis in an immunocompetent female patient with exposure to a pet magpie (Pica pica). Genetically indistinguishable isolates were cultured from the cerebrospinal fluid of the patient and excreta of the bird. Our data strongly suggest zoonotic transmission of Cryptococcus neoformans var. grubii from a magpie to this patient.}, }
@article {pmid15778139, year = {2004}, author = {Smith, A and Christopher, S and McCormick, AK}, title = {Development and implementation of a culturally sensitive cervical health survey: a community-based participatory approach.}, journal = {Women &amp; health}, volume = {40}, number = {2}, pages = {67-86}, doi = {10.1300/J013v40n02_05}, pmid = {15778139}, issn = {0363-0242}, mesh = {Adult ; Community Health Planning/*standards ; Community Participation/*methods ; Cultural Characteristics ; Female ; Health Education/*methods ; Humans ; Indians, North American/*psychology ; Mass Screening/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Middle Aged ; Models, Organizational ; Montana ; Program Development ; Program Evaluation ; Social Change ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/*prevention &amp; control/psychology ; Vaginal Smears ; Women's Health Services/*standards ; }, abstract = {Cervical cancer mortality rates are higher for Great Plains Native American women than for Caucasian women and other Native women. Messengers for Health, a project based on the Apsáalooke (Crow Indian) reservation, utilizes a lay health advisor approach to decrease cervical cancer screening barriers, increase knowledge regarding screening and prevention, and increase the proportion of women receiving Pap tests among Apsáalooke women aged 18 and older. This project utilizes a community-based participatory research model, which emphasizes community member involvement in all phases of the project. The initial phase of this project was the development and implementation of a culturally sensitive survey used to guide the program and benefit the community. The process and preliminary results are presented.}, }
@article {pmid15768610, year = {2005}, author = {Shiraki, T and Satoh, S and Sugiyama, H and Kobayashi, M and Takamura, T and Kajiyama, A and Saito, D}, title = {[Highly concentrated vascular endothelial growth factor in Crow-Fukase syndrome with high output heart failure: a case report].}, journal = {Journal of cardiology}, volume = {45}, number = {2}, pages = {75-80}, pmid = {15768610}, issn = {0914-5087}, mesh = {Adrenocorticotropic Hormone/blood ; Cardiac Output, High/*complications ; Electrocardiography ; Heart Failure/*complications ; Humans ; Hypertension, Pulmonary/complications ; Immunoglobulin A/blood ; Male ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*diagnosis/diagnostic imaging ; Thyrotropin/blood ; Ultrasonography ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors/*blood ; }, abstract = {Crow-Fukase syndrome is a disease of plasma cell dyscrasia. Congestive heart failure is the biggest complication affecting the prognosis. A 57-year-old male was admitted with edema and low grade fever. Globe and stocking type polyneuropathy, increased levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone and thyroid-stimulating hormone, serum M-protein component of the immunoglobulin A-lambda type, skin polypoid lesion, and organomegaly including cardiomegaly were observed. The diagnosis was Crow-Fukase syndrome based on these clinical features. High output heart failure and pulmonary hypertension were determined with a cardiac catheter. Diuretics and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor were effective to control his overhydration. The level of serum vascular endothelial growth factor was markedly increased and might be responsible for the manifestation of this syndrome with cardiac involvement.}, }
@article {pmid15761328, year = {2005}, author = {Counter, SA and Buchanan, LH and Ortega, F}, title = {Neurocognitive impairment in lead-exposed children of Andean lead-glazing workers.}, journal = {Journal of occupational and environmental medicine}, volume = {47}, number = {3}, pages = {306-312}, doi = {10.1097/01.jom.0000155717.45594.65}, pmid = {15761328}, issn = {1076-2752}, mesh = {Adult ; Ceramics ; Child ; *Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology ; Cohort Studies ; Ecuador/epidemiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Lead Poisoning/*complications ; Male ; *Occupational Exposure ; Parent-Child Relations ; Risk Assessment ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The level of lead (Pb) exposure necessary to induce intellectual impairment has not been firmly established. Some studies using conventional language-based intelligence tests have reported that pediatric blood lead (PbB) levels lower than 10 microg/dL (0.483 micromol/L) are associated with neurocognitive impairment. However, these tests may introduce cultural biases in the assessment of intellectual functioning. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of PbB concentration on nonverbal intelligence in Andean children with chronic environmental Pb exposure using a nonlanguage-based test of cognitive functioning.<br><br>METHODS: Using Raven Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) as a measure of nonverbal intelligence, this study investigated the effects of Pb exposure (biomarker: PbB levels) on intellectual functioning in 188 chronically Pb-exposed children (age range: 5.33-11.67 years) of Ecuadorian Andean Pb-glazing workers.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean PbB level of the 188 children was 29.3 microg/dL (range: 3.5-94.3 microg/dL). Forty-seven children had PbB levels <10 microg/dL (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] I classification), of which 30 had abnormal (ie, < or =25th percentile) RCPM standard scores. Of the 141 children with PbB levels > or =10 microg/dL, 97 had abnormal RCPM scores. A regression analysis revealed a statistically significant negative association (r = -0.331, P < 0.0001) between PbB level and RCPM standard score. Conversion of RCPM standard scores to estimated IQ scores showed an approximate two-point decrease in IQ for each 10-microg/dL increment in PbB level from 10 to >70 microg/dL.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Performance on a test of nonverbal intelligence was inversely associated with chronic Pb exposure in Andean children with PbB levels below and above the CDC risk management level of 10 microg/dL, with the decline in test scores suggesting a dose-response relationship.}, }
@article {pmid15760627, year = {2005}, author = {Starr, JM and Whalley, LJ}, title = {Differential cognitive outcomes in the Hypertensive Old People in Edinburgh study.}, journal = {Journal of the neurological sciences}, volume = {229-230}, number = {}, pages = {103-107}, doi = {10.1016/j.jns.2004.11.005}, pmid = {15760627}, issn = {0022-510X}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Antihypertensive Agents/therapeutic use ; Bendroflumethiazide/therapeutic use ; Blood Pressure/physiology ; Captopril/therapeutic use ; Cognition/*physiology ; Disease Progression ; Female ; Humans ; Hypertension/drug therapy/physiopathology/*psychology ; Male ; Memory/physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; Treatment Outcome ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {Hypertension is associated with cognitive impairment in older adults. The Hypertensive Old People in Edinburgh (HOPE) study reported improved scores in two psychometric tests in those subjects with the greatest fall in diastolic blood pressure during a 24-week randomised, double-blind trial of captopril versus bendrofluazide in 81 elderly hypertensive people with mild cognitive impairment. Three hundred and eighty-seven of the original sample of 603 older people with and without hypertension and/or cognitive impairment from which the trial subsample was drawn were available for adequate psychometric testing 4 years later. Blood pressure was related prospectively to Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM), a measure of fluid intelligence, but not memory differences. RPM scores were obtained at baseline, 6 weeks, 12 weeks and at the end of the randomised controlled trial. For subjects on captopril mean scores at each time point adjusted for blood pressure change were 27.6 (95% CI 25.5-29.6), 27.2 (95% CI 25.1-29.2), 28.4 (95% CI 26.6-30.3) and 28.9 (95% CI 26.9-30.9), and for bendrofluazide 27.1 (95% CI 25.1-29.0), 28.9 (95% CI 26.9-30.9), 28.9 (95% CI 27.2-30.7) and 28.7 (95% CI 26.8-30.6). There was a significant improvement in scores for those on bendrofluazide compared with captopril at week 6 (F=8.10, p=0.006, partial eta2=0.11). There were no significant effects for either drug or blood pressure at any time point for tests of memory. Future trials of the effects of antihypertensive therapy on cognition should focus more on outcomes other than memory. Early differential effects of therapeutic agents may not be maintained.}, }
@article {pmid15757914, year = {2005}, author = {Smith, DB}, title = {Racial and ethnic health disparities and the unfinished civil rights agenda.}, journal = {Health affairs (Project Hope)}, volume = {24}, number = {2}, pages = {317-324}, doi = {10.1377/hlthaff.24.2.317}, pmid = {15757914}, issn = {0278-2715}, mesh = {Civil Rights/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Delivery of Health Care/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; *Ethnicity ; Health Services Accessibility ; Humans ; *Racial Groups ; *Social Justice ; United States ; }, abstract = {Civil rights-era efforts to end disparities in health care in federally financed health programs faced three successively more difficult challenges: (1) ending Jim Crow practices, (2) eliminating more subtle forms of segregation, and (3) assuring nondiscriminatory treatment in integrated settings. Federal efforts peaked with the implementation of the Medicare program. Visible symbols of Jim Crow disappeared, and most crude disparities in access were eliminated. The unfinished parts of the civil rights-era agenda, the persistence of more subtle forms of segregation, and the failure to assure nondiscriminatory treatment pose major challenges to current efforts to eliminate health care disparities.}, }
@article {pmid15755306, year = {2005}, author = {Brock, J and Jarrold, C}, title = {Serial order reconstruction in Down syndrome: evidence for a selective deficit in verbal short-term memory.}, journal = {Journal of child psychology and psychiatry, and allied disciplines}, volume = {46}, number = {3}, pages = {304-316}, doi = {10.1111/j.1469-7610.2004.00352.x}, pmid = {15755306}, issn = {0021-9630}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Child ; Down Syndrome/*epidemiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Memory Disorders/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Mental Recall ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Reaction Time ; Severity of Illness Index ; Space Perception ; *Vocabulary ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Individuals with Down syndrome consistently perform less well than appropriately matched comparison groups on tests of verbal short-term memory, despite performing relatively well on non-verbal short-term memory tasks. However, it is not clear whether these findings constitute evidence for a selective deficit in verbal short-term memory, or whether they instead reflect the influence of non-central factors such as speech difficulties or poor number knowledge.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty-six individuals with Down syndrome and 32 typically developing children were tested on a digit reconstruction task in which participants were presented with auditory digit sequences and responded by pressing the corresponding digits on a touch-screen in the correct serial order. Background measures were performance on a closely matched visuo-spatial reconstruction task, reaction time on a simple digit identification task, receptive vocabulary age and non-verbal ability (Raven's matrices). Participants were also tested on a conventional digit recall task.<br><br>RESULTS: All four background measures accounted for significant individual variation in digit reconstruction performance, but there remained a significant effect of group that reflected relatively poor performance of individuals with Down syndrome. Hierarchical regression showed that group membership accounted for unique variation in both digit reconstruction and recall performance, even after all group differences on background measures had been accounted for.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The results provide strong evidence that Down syndrome is associated with a selective deficit in verbal short-term memory, and a deficit in verbal serial order memory in particular. Implications for the language difficulties associated with Down syndrome are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid15752885, year = {2005}, author = {D'Souza, WD and Ahamad, AA and Iyer, RB and Salehpour, MR and Jhingran, A and Eifel, PJ}, title = {Feasibility of dose escalation using intensity-modulated radiotherapy in posthysterectomy cervical carcinoma.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {61}, number = {4}, pages = {1062-1070}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijrobp.2004.07.721}, pmid = {15752885}, issn = {0360-3016}, mesh = {Feasibility Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Hysterectomy ; Intestines/diagnostic imaging/radiation effects ; Postoperative Period ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; Rectum/diagnostic imaging/radiation effects ; Retrospective Studies ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; Urinary Bladder/diagnostic imaging/radiation effects ; Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging/*radiotherapy/surgery ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To evaluate retrospectively the utility of intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) in reducing the volume of normal tissues receiving radiation at varying dose levels when the female pelvis after hysterectomy is treated to doses of 50.4 Gy and 54 Gy.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: Computed tomography scans from 10 patients who had previously undergone conventional postoperative RT were selected. The clinical tumor volume (vaginal apex and iliac nodes) and organs at risk were contoured. Margins were added to generate the planning tumor volume. The Pinnacle and Corvus planning systems were used to develop conventional and IMRT plans, respectively. Conventional four-field plans were prescribed to deliver 45 Gy (4F(45 Gy)) or 50.4 Gy; eight-field IMRT plans were prescribed to deliver 50.4 Gy (IMRT(50.4 Gy)) or 54 Gy (IMRT(54 Gy)) to the planning tumor volume. All plans were normalized so that > or =97% of the planning tumor volume received the prescribed dose. Student's t test was used to compare the volumes of organs at risk receiving the same doses with different plans.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean volume of bowel receiving > or =45 Gy was lower with the IMRT(50.4 Gy) (33% lower) and IMRT(54 Gy) (18% lower) plans than with the 4F(45 Gy) plan. The mean volume of rectum receiving > or =45 Gy or > or =50 Gy was also significantly reduced with the IMRT plans despite an escalation of the prescribed dose from 45 Gy with the conventional plans to 54 Gy with IMRT. The mean volume of bladder treated to 45 Gy was the same or slightly lower with the IMRT(50.4 Gy) and IMRT(54 Gy) plans compared with the 4F(45 Gy) plan. Compared with the 4F(45 Gy) plan, the IMRT(50.4 Gy) plan resulted in a smaller volume of bowel receiving 35-45 Gy and a larger volume of bowel receiving 50-55 Gy. Compared with the 4F(45 Gy) plan, the IMRT(54 Gy) plan resulted in smaller volumes of bowel receiving 45-50 Gy; however, small volumes of bowel received 55-60 Gy with the IMRT plan.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Intensity-modulated RT may permit an increase in the radiation dose that can safely be delivered to the central pelvis and pelvic lymph nodes after hysterectomy. However, dose-volume calculations using individual CT scans do not account for internal organ motion. Detailed data concerning the relationships among radiation dose, treatment volume, and treatment effects are lacking, and prospective studies of pelvic IMRT are needed to determine the safety and efficacy of this treatment.}, }
@article {pmid15750778, year = {2005}, author = {Kobayashi, M and Kashida, Y and Yoneda, K and Iwata, H and Watanabe, M and Tanabe, S and Fukatsu, H and Machida, N and Mitsumori, K}, title = {Thyroid lesions and dioxin accumulation in the livers of jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) in urban and suburban Tokyo.}, journal = {Archives of environmental contamination and toxicology}, volume = {48}, number = {3}, pages = {424-432}, doi = {10.1007/s00244-004-0101-5}, pmid = {15750778}, issn = {0090-4341}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Benzofurans/analysis/*toxicity ; Crows/*metabolism ; Cytochrome P-450 CYP2B1/analysis ; Dibenzofurans, Polychlorinated ; Dioxins/analysis/*toxicity ; Environmental Monitoring ; Environmental Pollutants/analysis/*toxicity ; Gene Expression ; Liver/chemistry/metabolism ; Polychlorinated Biphenyls/analysis/*toxicity ; RNA, Messenger/biosynthesis ; Receptors, Aryl Hydrocarbon/biosynthesis/genetics ; Thyroid Gland/*drug effects/pathology ; Tokyo ; }, abstract = {Wild jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) captured from three different areas of Tokyo were examined to evaluate environmental contamination of dioxins. In addition to the pathologic examination of their whole body, accumulation of dioxins, mRNA expression of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), and pentoxyresorufin-O-depenthylase (PROD) activity in the liver were determined. Marked histopathologic changes were observed in the thyroid glands, especially in the crows from the urban downtown area. Levels of dioxins and their toxic equivalents (TEQs) and AhR mRNA expression in the livers of the crows from the urban area were higher than those from the suburban area. There was a high correlation between the levels of TEQs and PROD activity. The results of the present study demonstrated that jungle crows possess AhR-mediated toxicologic pathways similar to those of mammals and suggest the possibility that the thyroidal changes observed in the adult crows from the urban areas are one of the toxic manifestations resulting from exposure to dioxins and other environmental chemicals.}, }
@article {pmid15739582, year = {2005}, author = {Zaremski, MJ}, title = {QMHC interview with Miles Jay Zaremski, JD.}, journal = {Quality management in health care}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {56-60}, pmid = {15739582}, issn = {1063-8628}, mesh = {Antitrust Laws ; Delivery of Health Care/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Governing Board ; *Lawyers ; Malpractice/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid15738923, year = {2004}, author = {Zhu, XR and Schultz, CJ and Gillin, MT}, title = {Planning quality and delivery efficiency of sMLC delivered IMRT treatment of oropharyngeal cancers evaluated by RTOG H-0022 dosimetric criteria.}, journal = {Journal of applied clinical medical physics}, volume = {5}, number = {4}, pages = {80-95}, pmid = {15738923}, issn = {1526-9914}, mesh = {Body Burden ; Humans ; Oropharyngeal Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; *Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Quality Assurance, Health Care/*methods/standards ; Radiometry/*methods/standards ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods/standards ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/instrumentation/*methods/standards ; Relative Biological Effectiveness ; Treatment Outcome ; United States ; }, abstract = {The time required to deliver intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) treatments can be significantly longer than conventional treatments, especially for the segmented multileaf collimator (sMLC) delivery system with a large record and verification (R&amp;V) overhead. In this work, we evaluate the impact of the number of intensity-modulated beams (IMBs) and the number of intensity levels (ILs) on the quality and delivery efficiency of IMRT plans, generated by the Corvus planning system for sMLC delivery on a Siemens LINAC with the Lantis R&amp;V system. Detailed studies were performed for three image data sets of previously treated oropharyngeal patients. Treatment plans for patient 1 were developed using 5, 7, 9, or 15 evenly spaced axial IMBs as well as one with 7 axial IMBs whose directions were user-selected, each using ILs of 3, 5, 10, or 20. For patients 2 and 3, plans with 15 IMBs and 20 ILs were not attempted. A total of 42 plans were developed using three oropharyngeal cancer CT image data sets. Plan quality was evaluated by assessing compliance with the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) H-0022 protocol criteria and the physician's clinical judgment. Plan efficiency was accessed by the number of segments of each plan. We found that for our treatment-planning and delivery system, an IMRT plan that uses a moderate number of IMBs and ILs, such as 7 or 9 IMBs with 3 or 5 ILs, would appear to be the optimal approach when both quality of the plan and delivery efficiency are considered. Based on this study, we have routinely used 9 IMBs with 3 ILs or 7 IMBs with 5 ILs for head and neck patients. A retrospective comparison indicates that delivery efficiency is improved on the order of 30% compared to plans generated with 9 IMBs with 5 ILs.}, }
@article {pmid15734706, year = {2005}, author = {Qian, M and Wang, D and Watkins, WE and Gebski, V and Yan, YQ and Li, M and Chen, ZP}, title = {The effects of iodine on intelligence in children: a meta-analysis of studies conducted in China.}, journal = {Asia Pacific journal of clinical nutrition}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {32-42}, pmid = {15734706}, issn = {0964-7058}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Algorithms ; Child ; China ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Iodine/administration &amp; dosage/*deficiency ; Pregnancy ; }, abstract = {This study quantifies the effects of iodine on the intellectual development of children using a systematic manual literature search of Chinese publications related to iodine deficiency disorders. The Chinese Medical Reference Database, Medline, and Cochrane library were searched electronically in Chinese and English. Inclusion criteria included: studies conducted in China, comparing children (<16 ys) living in naturally iodine sufficient (IS) with those in severely iodine deficient (ID) areas, or children in ID areas born before and after the introduction of iodine supplementation. Intelligent Quotient (IQ) was measured using Binet or Raven Scales. The iodine sufficient control groups were comparable socially, economically, and educationally with the study groups. Random effects models were used in the meta-analysis. Effect size was the standard deviation IQ point (SIQP), which is equivalent to 15 IQ. Thirty-seven reported studies, total 12,291 children, were analysed. The effect size was an increase of 0.83, 0.82, and 0.32 SIQP respectively, for the children living in IS communities compared with those living in ID areas with no iodine supplementation, with inadequate iodine supplementation, or children who had received iodine during their mothers' pregnancy and after birth. These equal to 12.45, 12.3, 4.8 IQ points. Compared with that of children whose mothers were persistently exposed to ID, the total effect size of the 21 entries was an increase of 0.58 SIQP (8.7 IQ points) in the group receiving iodine supplementation during pregnancy. Furthermore, there was an increase on 1.15 SIQP of Binet or 0.8 SIQP on Raven Scale (17.25 or 12 IQ points) for children born more than 3.5 years after iodine supplementation program was introduced. The level of iodine nutrition plays a crucial role in the intellectual development of children. The intelligence damage of children exposed to severe ID was profound, demonstrated by 12.45 IQ points loss and they recovered 8.7 IQ points with iodine supplementation or IS before and during pregnancy. Iodine supplementation before and during pregnancy to women living in severe ID areas could prevent their children from intelligence deficit. This effect becomes evident in children born 3.5 years after the iodine supplementation program was introduced.}, }
@article {pmid15729495, year = {2005}, author = {Rosci, C and Sacco, D and Laiacona, M and Capitani, E}, title = {Interpretation of a complex picture and its sensitivity to frontal damage: a reappraisal.}, journal = {Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology}, volume = {25}, number = {6}, pages = {322-330}, doi = {10.1007/s10072-004-0365-6}, pmid = {15729495}, issn = {1590-1874}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Brain Damage, Chronic/diagnosis/*pathology/psychology ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/*pathology ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Neuropsychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Photic Stimulation/methods ; Pilot Projects ; *Portraits as Topic ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Trail Making Test/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Verbal Behavior/physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {A. R. Luria introduced the interpretation of a meaningful picture as a tool for assessing pre-frontal impairment. We gave this test to 196 normal adults, who were asked to communicate what was happening in the portrayed scene (a boy chases a mouse hidden under a cupboard, while three frightened girls assist). The same subjects were given two other frontal tests (verbal fluency on phonemic cue and Trail Making Test (TMT)) and Raven's Matrices. Twenty-three normal subjects (12%) failed to correctly interpret the picture. We also examined 20 patients whose brain lesion encroached upon pre-frontal areas, in order to check if this version of the test could be easily administered to this type of patient, and if its difficulty level was appropriate for avoiding ceiling and floor effects. Twelve patients were unable to interpret the picture (60%). A similar failure rate was observed with the same subjects on verbal fluency and TMT, while Raven's Matrices were less impaired (35%). Some dissociation was found between Picture Interpretation and the TMT. The Italian version of the Picture Interpretation Test is suitable for the examination of pre-frontal patients.}, }
@article {pmid15721957, year = {2005}, author = {Baldo, JV and Dronkers, NF and Wilkins, D and Ludy, C and Raskin, P and Kim, J}, title = {Is problem solving dependent on language?.}, journal = {Brain and language}, volume = {92}, number = {3}, pages = {240-250}, doi = {10.1016/j.bandl.2004.06.103}, pmid = {15721957}, issn = {0093-934X}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aphasia/*physiopathology ; Cognition/physiology ; Cognition Disorders/physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; *Linguistics ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Stroke/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {There has been a long-standing debate in the fields of philosophy and cognitive science surrounding the relationship of language to cognition, but the exact nature of this relationship is still unclear (Sokolov, 1968/1972). In the current study, we explored the role of language in one aspect of cognition, namely problem solving, by administering the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) to stroke patients with varying degrees of language impairment (Experiment 1) and to normal participants under conditions of articulatory suppression (Experiment 2). In Experiment 1, there was a significant correlation between performance on the WCST and language measures such as comprehension and naming. Demonstrating the specificity of this result, we also found a significant relationship between language performance and another test of problem solving, the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, but no relationship between language and a test of visuospatial functioning. In Experiment 2, normal participants were significantly impaired on the WCST under conditions of articulatory suppression, relative to a baseline condition. Together, these findings suggest that language plays a role in complex problem solving, possibly through covert language processes.}, }
@article {pmid15721956, year = {2005}, author = {Njemanze, PC}, title = {Cerebral lateralization and general intelligence: gender differences in a transcranial Doppler study.}, journal = {Brain and language}, volume = {92}, number = {3}, pages = {234-239}, doi = {10.1016/j.bandl.2004.06.104}, pmid = {15721956}, issn = {0093-934X}, mesh = {Adult ; Cerebral Cortex/blood supply/*physiology ; Cerebrovascular Circulation ; Cognition/physiology ; Female ; Functional Laterality/*physiology ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Middle Cerebral Artery/diagnostic imaging/physiology ; *Sex Characteristics ; *Ultrasonography, Doppler, Transcranial ; }, abstract = {The present study evaluated cerebral lateralization during Raven's progressive matrices (RPM) paradigm in female and male subjects. Bilateral simultaneous transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasound was used to measure mean blood flow velocities (MBFV) in the right and left middle cerebral arteries (MCAs) in 24 (15 females and 9 males) right-handed normal subjects. The female subjects used a left hemisphere strategy, while males used a right hemisphere strategy to successfully solve RPM tasks. This implies that general intelligence is associated with neural systems within one hemisphere that are accessible to a variety of cognitive processes.}, }
@article {pmid15715936, year = {2005}, author = {Gao, L and Shan, BE and Chen, J and Liu, JH and Song, DX and Zhu, BC}, title = {Effects of spider Macrothele raven venom on cell proliferation and cytotoxicity in HeLa cells.}, journal = {Acta pharmacologica Sinica}, volume = {26}, number = {3}, pages = {369-376}, doi = {10.1111/j.1745-7254.2005.00052.x}, pmid = {15715936}, issn = {1671-4083}, mesh = {Animals ; Antineoplastic Agents/*pharmacology ; Apoptosis/drug effects ; Caspase 3 ; Caspases/*metabolism ; Cell Cycle/drug effects ; Cell Proliferation/*drug effects ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Female ; HeLa Cells ; Humans ; Mice ; Mice, Nude ; Neoplasm Transplantation ; Spider Venoms/*pharmacology ; Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/pathology ; }, abstract = {AIM: To examine the effect of venom from the spider Macrothele raven on cell proliferation and cytotoxicity in human cervical carcinoma, HeLa cells.<br><br>METHODS: Morphological and biochemical signs of apoptosis appeared using acridine orange-ethidium bromide (AO/EB) staining. Marked morphological changes in HeLa cells after treatment with spider venom were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Cell proliferation and cytotoxicity were determined by [methyl-3H] thymidine assay ([3H]TdR) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, respectively. DNA fragmentation and cell cycle distribution were monitored using flow cytometry. In addition, Western blot analysis was used to evaluate the level of caspase-3 expression. In vivo examination of the inhibition of the size of tumors in nude mice treated with spider venom was measured.<br><br>RESULTS: Marked morphological changes were observed using AO/EB staining, SEM and TEM assay. Spider venom at concentrations of 10-40 mg/L caused dose- and time-dependent inhibition of HeLa cell proliferation. The ratio of apoptosis and necrosis increased. The activity of caspase-3 was upregulated after spider venom treatment. In vivo study of tumor size revealed that tumors significantly decreased in size from controls to tumors treated for 3 weeks with spider venom (P<0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The inhibition of HeLa cells by the venom of the spider Macrothele raveni was carried out in three ways: induction of apoptosis, necrosis of toxicity damage and direct lysis. Spider venom is a novel anti-tumor material both in vitro and in vivo.}, }
@article {pmid15694292, year = {2005}, author = {Clayton, N and Emery, N}, title = {Corvid cognition.}, journal = {Current biology : CB}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {R80-1}, doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2005.01.020}, pmid = {15694292}, issn = {0960-9822}, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Intelligence ; Passeriformes/*physiology ; }, }
@article {pmid15691259, year = {2005}, author = {Robert, C and Robert, AM and Robert, L}, title = {Effect of a preparation containing a fucose-rich polysaccharide on periorbital wrinkles of human voluntaries.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {47-52}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-0846.2005.00100.x}, pmid = {15691259}, issn = {0909-752X}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Cosmetics/*administration &amp; dosage ; Dermatologic Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Dermoscopy ; Drug Combinations ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Ocular Physiological Phenomena/drug effects ; Polysaccharides/*administration &amp; dosage ; Skin Aging/*drug effects/*pathology ; Treatment Outcome ; Video Recording ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Skin aging is accompanied by wrinkle formation. At some sites, as the periorbital skin, this is a relatively early phenomenon, variable from one woman to the other and even between the right and left eye.<br><br>PURPOSE: We tested the effect of a preparation with fucose-rich oligo- and polysaccharide (FROP-3) on periorbital wrinkles (crow's feet) on a team of voluntaries.<br><br>METHOD: The efficiency of a preparation containing as active principle a fucose-rich polysaccharide in a base-cream for the treatment of temporal periorbital wrinkles on 20 voluntary women was tested as follows: the women applied the cream twice a day for 4 weeks. Negative replicas were taken on the periorbital skin before and after 4 weeks of application of the cream. The results were evaluated by semi-automated morphometry on the plastic replicas and expressed as the 'wrinkle-factor' obtained by multiplying total wrinkle length in millimeters by the average wrinkle width.<br><br>RESULTS: After 4 weeks of treatment, there was a significant improvement of the periorbital wrinkles for the majority of the voluntary team who tested the cream. On the 29 periocular wrinkles examined 65% showed an improvement at the end of the treatment. In two cases, the improvement was 100% on one eye (disappearance of the crow's feet) and of 75% and 79% on the other eye. On six eyes, there was no significant change after the end of the treatment, and on four eyes a worsening was observed. The age-dependent modifications showed that improvement was independent of age and was the result of individual skin reactions to the cream. The occurrence and the severity of crow's feet is highly individual, and differs from one side of the face to the other for the same person. These strong individual variations explain the highly variable results, not only from one woman to the other but also comparing one side of the face to the other for the same person.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Under the effect of 4 weeks of treatment with the FROP-3-containing cream, most of the voluntaries had their periorbital wrinkles attenuated and some women showed a total regression of crow's feet on one of their eyes.}, }
@article {pmid15691009, year = {2005}, author = {Turell, MJ and Dohm, DJ and Sardelis, MR and Oguinn, ML and Andreadis, TG and Blow, JA}, title = {An update on the potential of north American mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) to transmit West Nile Virus.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {42}, number = {1}, pages = {57-62}, doi = {10.1093/jmedent/42.1.57}, pmid = {15691009}, issn = {0022-2585}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/virology ; Chickens ; Crows ; Culicidae/physiology/*virology ; Eating ; *Insect Vectors ; Poultry Diseases/virology ; Viremia ; West Nile Fever/*transmission ; *West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {Since first discovered in the New York City area in 1999, West Nile virus (WNV) has become established over much of the continental United States and has been responsible for >10,000 cases of severe disease and 400 human fatalities, as well as thousands of fatal infections in horses. To develop appropriate surveillance and control strategies, the identification of which mosquito species are competent vectors and how various factors influence their ability to transmit this virus must be determined. Therefore, we evaluated numerous mosquito species for their ability to transmit WNV under laboratory conditions. This report contains data for several mosquito species not reported previously, as well as a summary of transmission data compiled from previously reported studies. Mosquitoes were allowed to feed on chickens infected with WNV isolated from a crow that died during the 1999 outbreak in New York City. These mosquitoes were tested approximately 2 wk later to determine infection, dissemination, and transmission rates. All Culex species tested were competent vectors in the laboratory and varied from highly efficient vectors (e.g., Culex tarsalis Coquillett) to moderately efficient ones (e.g., Culex nigripalpus Theobald). Nearly all of the Culex species tested could serve as efficient enzootic or amplifying vectors for WNV. Several container-breeding Aedes and Ochlerotatus species were highly efficient vectors under laboratory conditions, but because of their feeding preferences, would probably not be involved in the maintenance of WNV in nature. However, they would be potential bridge vectors between the avian-Culex cycle and mammalian hosts. In contrast, most of the surface pool-breeding Aedes and Ochlerotatus species tested were relatively inefficient vectors under laboratory conditions and would probably not play a significant role in transmitting WNV in nature. In determining the potential for a mosquito species to become involved in transmitting WNV, it is necessary to consider not only its laboratory vector competence but also its abundance, host-feeding preference, involvement with other viruses with similar transmission cycles, and whether WNV has been isolated from this species under natural conditions.}, }
@article {pmid15688574, year = {2005}, author = {Lynn, R and Backhoff, E and Contreras, LA}, title = {Ethnic and racial differences on the Standard Progressive Matrices in Mexico.}, journal = {Journal of biosocial science}, volume = {37}, number = {1}, pages = {107-113}, doi = {10.1017/s0021932003006497}, pmid = {15688574}, issn = {0021-9320}, mesh = {*Achievement ; Child ; Cross-Cultural Comparison ; Culture ; Ethnicity/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Mexico ; Racial Groups/*ethnology ; *Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices test was administered to a representative sample of 920 white, Mestizo and Native Mexican Indian children aged 7-10 years in Mexico. The mean IQs in relation to a British mean of 100 obtained from the 1979 British standardization sample and adjusted for the estimated subsequent increase were: 98.0 for whites, 94.3 for Mestizos and 83.3 for Native Mexican Indians.}, }
@article {pmid15685959, year = {2005}, author = {Fabio, RA}, title = {Dynamic assessment of intelligence is a better reply to adaptive behavior and cognitive plasticity.}, journal = {The Journal of general psychology}, volume = {132}, number = {1}, pages = {41-64}, doi = {10.3200/GENP.132.1.41-66}, pmid = {15685959}, issn = {0022-1309}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Psychological ; Adolescent ; Attention ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Neuronal Plasticity/*physiology ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {In the present study, the author conducted 3 experiments to examine the dynamic testing of potential intelligence. She investigated the relationship between dynamic measures and other factors such as (a) static measures of intelligence (Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices Test [J. C. Raven, J. H. Court, &amp; J. Raven, 1979] and the D48 [J. D. Black, 1961]) and (b) codifying speed, codifying accuracy, and school performance. The participants were kindergarten children (n = 150), primary school children (n = 287), and teenaged students (n = 198) who were all trained to master problem solving tests with dynamic measures of intelligence. The results showed that dynamic measures predict more accurately the relationships of codifying speed, codifying accuracy, and school performance.}, }
@article {pmid15680688, year = {2005}, author = {Charlier, TD and Ball, GF and Balthazart, J}, title = {Sexual behavior activates the expression of the immediate early genes c-fos and Zenk (egr-1) in catecholaminergic neurons of male Japanese quail.}, journal = {Neuroscience}, volume = {131}, number = {1}, pages = {13-30}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroscience.2004.09.068}, pmid = {15680688}, issn = {0306-4522}, support = {MH50388/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Catecholamines/*physiology ; Coturnix/*physiology ; DNA-Binding Proteins/*genetics ; Early Growth Response Protein 1 ; *Gene Expression Regulation ; *Genes, fos ; Immediate-Early Proteins/*genetics ; Male ; Neurons/*physiology ; *Sexual Behavior, Animal ; Transcription Factors/*genetics ; }, abstract = {We analyzed the expression of the immediate early genes c-fos and Zenk (egr-1) in the brain of male quail that were gonadally intact (I) or castrated and treated (CX+T) or not (CX) with testosterone and had been exposed for 60 min either to a sexually mature female (F), or to an empty arena (EA) or were left in their home cage (HC). Alternate sections in the brains collected 90 min after the start of behavioral interactions were stained by immunocytochemistry for the proteins FOS or ZENK alone or in association with tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), a marker of catecholaminergic neurons. C-fos and Zenk expression was statistically increased in six brain areas of sexually active birds (I+F, CX+T+F) compared with controls (CX+F, CX+T+EA, CX+T+HC), i.e. the preoptic area, bed nucleus striae terminalis, arcopallium, nucleus intercollicularis, periaqueductal gray and the ventral tegmental area. Interestingly, c-fos and Zenk expression was high in the nucleus intercollicularis, a midbrain vocal control nucleus, of I+F and CX+T+F birds that displayed copulatory behavior but emitted few crows but not in the nucleus intercollicularis of CX+T+EA birds that crowed frequently. Increases in c-fos expression were observed in TH-immunoreactive cells in the periaqueductal gray and ventral tegmental area, but not in the substantia nigra, of I+F and CX+T+F birds indicating the activation of dopaminergic neurons during sexual behavior. Together, these data confirm the implication of the steroid-sensitive preoptic area and bed nucleus striae terminalis in the control of copulation and support the notion that dopamine is involved in its control.}, }
@article {pmid15678710, year = {2004}, author = {De Roma, I and Filotico, R and Cea, M and Procaccio, P and Perosa, F}, title = {Calciphylaxis in a patient with POEMS syndrome without renal failure and/or hyperparathyroidism. A case report.}, journal = {Annali italiani di medicina interna : organo ufficiale della Societa italiana di medicina interna}, volume = {19}, number = {4}, pages = {283-287}, pmid = {15678710}, issn = {0393-9340}, mesh = {Blood Coagulation ; Calciphylaxis/*blood/*etiology/pathology ; Calcium Phosphates/blood ; Fatigue/etiology ; Female ; Hormones/blood ; Humans ; Hyperparathyroidism/complications ; Middle Aged ; Muscle Weakness/etiology ; POEMS Syndrome/blood/*complications/diagnosis ; Paresthesia/etiology ; Renal Insufficiency/complications ; Vasculitis/etiology ; }, abstract = {POEMS (Crow-Fukase) syndrome is a rare plasma cell lymphoproliferative disorder associated with polyneuropathy (P), organomegaly (O), endocrinopathy (E), monoclonal (M) gammopathy and skin (S) abnormalities. The latter are usually not specific and include hyperpigmentation, hypertrichosis, cutaneous angioma and skin-thickening. A 45-year-old Italian woman was admitted to hospital because of muscle weakness, marked fatigue and paresthesia of the upper and lower extremities. Two and a half years earlier, a POEMS syndrome had been diagnosed on the basis of a history of organomegaly and mild lymphadenopathy, IgA-lambda monoclonal gammopathy, hypothyroidism, severe lower and upper limb sensory-motor peripheral neuropathy and a single osteosclerotic lesion in the left humerus. Eight weeks later, she developed skin lesions bioptically shown to be due to calciphylaxis-induced cutaneous vasculitis. To our knowledge, this is the first case of POEMS syndrome with this peculiar type of vasculitis. The absence of predisposing conditions, namely renal failure, hyperparathyroidism or clotting disorders renders the pathogenetic mechanism(s) of this severe type of vasculitis more intriguing.}, }
@article {pmid15671224, year = {2005}, author = {Beard, JL and Hendricks, MK and Perez, EM and Murray-Kolb, LE and Berg, A and Vernon-Feagans, L and Irlam, J and Isaacs, W and Sive, A and Tomlinson, M}, title = {Maternal iron deficiency anemia affects postpartum emotions and cognition.}, journal = {The Journal of nutrition}, volume = {135}, number = {2}, pages = {267-272}, doi = {10.1093/jn/135.2.267}, pmid = {15671224}, issn = {0022-3166}, mesh = {Adult ; Anemia, Iron-Deficiency/*psychology ; Ascorbic Acid ; *Cognition ; Demography ; Depression/prevention &amp; control ; Dietary Supplements ; Educational Status ; *Emotions ; Female ; Ferric Compounds ; Humans ; Income ; Placebos ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Complications/*psychology ; Puerperal Disorders/*prevention &amp; control ; South Africa ; Stress, Psychological/*prevention &amp; control ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to determine whether iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in mothers alters their maternal cognitive and behavioral performance, the mother-infant interaction, and the infant's development. This article focuses on the relation between IDA and cognition as well as behavioral affect in the young mothers. This prospective, randomized, controlled, intervention trial was conducted in South Africa among 3 groups of mothers: nonanemic controls and anemic mothers receiving either placebo (10 microg folate and 25 mg vitamin C) or daily iron (125 mg FeS0(4), 10 microg folate, 25 mg vitamin C). Mothers of full-term normal birth weight babies were followed from 10 wk to 9 mo postpartum (n = 81). Maternal hematologic and iron status, socioeconomic, cognitive, and emotional status, mother-infant interaction, and the development of the infants were assessed at 10 wk and 9 mo postpartum. Behavioral and cognitive variables at baseline did not differ between iron-deficient anemic mothers and nonanemic mothers. However, iron treatment resulted in a 25% improvement (P < 0.05) in previously iron-deficient mothers' depression and stress scales as well as in the Raven's Progressive Matrices test. Anemic mothers administered placebo did not improve in behavioral measures. Multivariate analysis showed a strong association between iron status variables (hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, and transferrin saturation) and cognitive variables (Digit Symbol) as well as behavioral variables (anxiety, stress, depression). This study demonstrates that there is a strong relation between iron status and depression, stress, and cognitive functioning in poor African mothers during the postpartum period. There are likely ramifications of this poorer "functioning" on mother-child interactions and infant development, but the constraints around this relation will have to be defined in larger studies.}, }
@article {pmid15668417, year = {2005}, author = {Nagano-Saito, A and Washimi, Y and Arahata, Y and Kachi, T and Lerch, JP and Evans, AC and Dagher, A and Ito, K}, title = {Cerebral atrophy and its relation to cognitive impairment in Parkinson disease.}, journal = {Neurology}, volume = {64}, number = {2}, pages = {224-229}, doi = {10.1212/01.WNL.0000149510.41793.50}, pmid = {15668417}, issn = {1526-632X}, mesh = {Aged ; Atrophy ; Brain/*pathology ; Caudate Nucleus/pathology ; Dementia/etiology/*pathology/psychology ; Female ; Higher Nervous Activity ; Humans ; Limbic System/pathology ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neurons/pathology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/*pathology/psychology ; Prefrontal Cortex/pathology ; Space Perception ; Temporal Lobe/pathology ; Thalamus/pathology ; Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Voxel-based morphometry was used to compare the amounts of gray matter in the brains of patients with Parkinson disease (PD) and normal control subjects (NCs) and to identify the specific regions responsible for cognitive dysfunction in PD.<br><br>METHODS: Patients were classified into nondemented (ND) and demented (D) groups according to the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed.), and a group comparison was performed. In the ND patients, a correlation was also performed between local gray matter density and the score on Raven Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM), a test of executive and visuospatial function.<br><br>RESULTS: In patients with advanced ND-PD vs NCs, atrophic changes were observed in the limbic/paralimbic areas and the prefrontal cortex. In D vs ND patients, atrophic change was observed widely in the limbic/paralimbic system, including the anterior cingulate gyrus and hippocampus as well as the temporal lobe, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, thalamus, and caudate nucleus. The RCPM score was positively correlated with the gray matter density in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and the parahippocampal gyrus.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In patients with Parkinson disease (PD), atrophic changes occur mainly in the limbic/paralimbic and prefrontal areas. These atrophic changes may be related to the development of dementia in PD.}, }
@article {pmid15665419, year = {2004}, author = {Buccafusco, JJ and Beach, JW and Terry, AV and Doad, GS and Sood, A and Arias, E and Misawa, H and Masai, M and Fujii, T and Kawashima, K}, title = {Novel analogs of choline as potential neuroprotective agents.}, journal = {Journal of Alzheimer's disease : JAD}, volume = {6}, number = {6 Suppl}, pages = {S85-92}, doi = {10.3233/jad-2004-6s612}, pmid = {15665419}, issn = {1387-2877}, mesh = {Aconitine/*analogs &amp; derivatives/pharmacology ; Animals ; Cell Culture Techniques ; Cell Survival/drug effects ; Choline/*analogs &amp; derivatives/antagonists &amp; inhibitors/pharmacokinetics ; Dihydro-beta-Erythroidine/pharmacology ; Ethanolamines/pharmacology ; Fibroblasts/drug effects ; Horses ; Humans ; Neuroprotective Agents/antagonists &amp; inhibitors/*pharmacology ; Nicotinic Agonists/pharmacology ; Nicotinic Antagonists/pharmacology ; Receptors, Nicotinic/drug effects ; }, abstract = {The ability of choline to serve as a full, though low potency agonist for the alpha7 nicotinic receptor has provided the impetus to develop analogs that exhibit levels of potency and effectiveness suitable for use as therapeutic agents. Seven analogs of choline were synthesized based on previous work with the analog pyrrolidinecholine. The drugs were administered to differentiated PC-12 cells 24 hr prior to growth factor withdrawal which itself induced cytotoxicity in 30-40% of the cells. Three of 7 choline analogs exhibited potency and efficacy similar to that for nicotine as cytoprotective agents. Despite being tertiary amines, 4 of the choline analogs were more potent than choline in inhibiting [(3)H]choline uptake into cultured fibroblasts transfected with the high affinity, sodium-dependent choline transporter. One of the most effective analogs JAY 2-21-29 was shown to produce a potent (EC50 approximately 30 nM) cytoprotective action that was blocked by pretreatment with the alpha7 nicotinic receptor selective antagonist methyllycaconitine, but not by thealpha2 subtype-preferring antagonist dihydro-beta-erythroidin. These preliminary studies support the further neurochemical characterization of these compounds 1) as selectivealpha7 nicotinic receptor agonists and, 2) based on their interaction with the choline transporter, as potential cholinergic false neurotransmitters as has been demonstrated for pyrrolidinecholine.}, }
@article {pmid15663856, year = {2004}, author = {Stone, WB and Okoniewski, JC and Therrien, JE and Kramer, LD and Kauffman, EB and Eidson, M}, title = {VecTest as diagnostic and surveillance tool for West Nile virus in dead birds.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {10}, number = {12}, pages = {2175-2181}, pmid = {15663856}, issn = {1080-6040}, support = {U90/CCU216988/CC/ODCDC CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antigens, Viral/analysis ; Birds/*virology ; New York ; Reagent Kits, Diagnostic/*veterinary ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {The VecTest antigen-capture assay for West Nile virus was performed on oral and tissue swabs from dead birds in New York State from April 2003 through July 2004. Results were compared with those from real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction of kidney or brain. Oral VecTest sensitivity is adequate for surveillance in American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) (87%), Blue Jays (Cyanocitta cristata) (80%), and House Sparrows (Passer domesticus) (76%). Oral VecTest performed well for small samples of American Kestrels (Falco sparverius), Northern Cardinals (Cardinalis cardinalis), Common Grackles (Quiscalus quiscula), and House Finches (Carpodacus mexicanus). Poor sensitivity occurred in most raptors, Mourning Doves (Zenaida macroura), Fish Crows (Corvus ossifragus), and American Robins (Turdus migratorius). Specificity was excellent (98%), except for false-positive results that occurred mostly in Gray Catbirds (Dumatella carolinensis), Green Herons (Butorides virescens), and tests of blood and tissues. Feather pulp and kidney may be useful for VecTest assays in corvids.}, }
@article {pmid15663854, year = {2004}, author = {Brault, AC and Langevin, SA and Bowen, RA and Panella, NA and Biggerstaff, BJ and Miller, BR and Komar, N}, title = {Differential virulence of West Nile strains for American crows.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {10}, number = {12}, pages = {2161-2168}, pmid = {15663854}, issn = {1080-6040}, support = {R01 AI061822-01/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Bird Diseases/mortality/virology ; Crows/*virology ; Genetic Variation ; North America ; Viremia/veterinary ; Virulence ; West Nile Fever/mortality/veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {Crow deaths were observed after West Nile virus (WNV) was introduced into North America, and this phenomenon has subsequently been used to monitor the spread of the virus. To investigate potential differences in the crow virulence of different WNV strains, American Crows were inoculated with Old World strains of WNV from Kenya and Australia (Kunjin) and a North American (NY99) WNV genotype. Infection of crows with NY99 genotype resulted in high serum viremia levels and death; the Kenyan and Kunjin genotypes elicited low viremia levels and minimal deaths but resulted in the generation of neutralizing antibodies capable of providing 100% protection from infection with the NY99 strain. These results suggest that genetic alterations in NY99 WNV are responsible for the crow-virulent phenotype and that increased replication of this strain in crows could spread WNV in North America.}, }
@article {pmid15663850, year = {2004}, author = {Gancz, AY and Barker, IK and Lindsay, R and Dibernardo, A and McKeever, K and Hunter, B}, title = {West Nile virus outbreak in North American owls, Ontario, 2002.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {10}, number = {12}, pages = {2135-2142}, pmid = {15663850}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/virology ; Diptera/virology ; Disease Outbreaks/*veterinary ; Disease Vectors ; Environment ; Ontario/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; Strigiformes/*virology ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {From July to September 2002, an outbreak of West Nile virus (WNV) caused a high number of deaths in captive owls at the Owl Foundation, Vineland, Ontario, Canada. Peak death rates occurred in mid-August, and the epidemiologic curve resembled that of corvids in the surrounding Niagara region. The outbreak occurred in the midst of a louse fly (Icosta americana, family Hippoboscidae) infestation. Of the flies tested, 16 (88.9 %) of 18 contained WNV RNA. Species with northern native breeding range and birds >1 year of age were at significantly higher risk for WNV-related deaths. Species with northern native breeding range and of medium-to-large body size were at significantly higher risk for exposure to WNV. Taxonomic relations (at the subfamily level) did not significantly affect exposure to WNV or WNV-related deaths. Northern native breeding range and medium-to-large body size were associated with earlier death within the outbreak period. Of the survivors, 69 (75.8 %) of 91 were seropositive for WNV.}, }
@article {pmid15661149, year = {2005}, author = {Mase, M and Tsukamoto, K and Imada, T and Imai, K and Tanimura, N and Nakamura, K and Yamamoto, Y and Hitomi, T and Kira, T and Nakai, T and Kiso, M and Horimoto, T and Kawaoka, Y and Yamaguchi, S}, title = {Characterization of H5N1 influenza A viruses isolated during the 2003-2004 influenza outbreaks in Japan.}, journal = {Virology}, volume = {332}, number = {1}, pages = {167-176}, doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2004.11.016}, pmid = {15661149}, issn = {0042-6822}, mesh = {Animals ; *Disease Outbreaks ; Hemagglutinin Glycoproteins, Influenza Virus/*genetics ; Humans ; *Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/isolation &amp; purification ; Influenza A virus/*classification/genetics/pathogenicity ; Influenza in Birds/epidemiology/*virology ; Influenza, Human/epidemiology/transmission/*virology ; Japan/epidemiology ; Mice ; Phylogeny ; Poultry ; Poultry Diseases/epidemiology/*virology ; }, abstract = {In Japan, between the end of December 2003 and March 2004, four outbreaks of acute, highly transmissible and lethal disease occurred in birds in three prefectures separated by 150-450 km, involving three chicken farms and a group of chickens raised as pets. The cause of each outbreak was an H5N1 influenza A virus-the first highly pathogenic virus to be isolated from the outbreaks in Japan since 1925. The H5N1 virus was also isolated from dead crows, apparently infected by contact with virus-contaminated material. These H5N1 viruses were antigenically similar to each other, but could be differentiated from other H5 viruses, including those isolated from Hong Kong in 1997 and 2003, by use of a panel of monoclonal antibodies in hemagglutination inhibition assays. Genetically, the H5N1 viruses in Japan were closely related to each other in all genes and were genetically closely related to a single isolate of genotype V that was isolated in 2003 in the Guandong Province of mainland China (A/chicken/Shantou/4231/2003). The virulence of the index isolate (A/chicken/Yamaguchi/7/2004) was studied in chickens and mice. Chickens intravenously or intranasally inoculated with the isolate died within 1 or 3 days of inoculation, respectively. In mice, although this virus replicated well in the lung without prior adaptation and spread to the brain, the dose lethal to 50% of the mice was 5 x 10(5) 50% egg infectious doses (EID50), which is less pathogenic than the Hong Kong 1997 H5N1 viruses isolated from humans. Our findings indicate that the H5N1 viruses associated with the influenza outbreaks in chickens in Japan were genotypically closely related to an H5N1 virus isolated from chicken in China in 2003 (genotype V), but were different from those prevalent in southeastern Asia in 2003-2004 (i.e., genotype Z) and that these highly pathogenic viruses can be transmitted to crows, which are highly susceptible to these viruses.}, }
@article {pmid15651601, year = {2004}, author = {Burmeister, J and McDermott, PN and Bossenberger, T and Ben-Josef, E and Levin, K and Forman, JD}, title = {Effect of MLC leaf width on the planning and delivery of SMLC IMRT using the CORVUS inverse treatment planning system.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {31}, number = {12}, pages = {3187-3193}, doi = {10.1118/1.1812607}, pmid = {15651601}, issn = {0094-2405}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Body Burden ; Equipment Failure Analysis ; Humans ; Radiometry/*methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*instrumentation/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*instrumentation/*methods ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Software ; }, abstract = {This study investigates the influence of multileaf collimator (MLC) leaf width on intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) plans delivered via the segmented multileaf collimator (SMLC) technique. IMRT plans were calculated using the Corvus treatment planning system for three brain, three prostate, and three pancreas cases using leaf widths of 0.5 and 1 cm. Resulting differences in plan quality and complexity are presented here. Plans calculated using a 1 cm leaf width were chosen over the 0.5 cm leaf width plans in seven out of nine cases based on clinical judgment. Conversely, optimization results revealed a superior objective function result for the 0.5 cm leaf width plans in seven out of the nine comparisons. The 1 cm leaf width objective function result was superior only for very large target volumes, indicating that expanding the solution space for plan optimization by using narrower leaves may result in a decreased probability of finding the global minimum. In the remaining cases, we can conclude that we are often not utilizing the objective function as proficiently as possible to meet our clinical goals. There was often no apparent clinically significant difference between the two plans, and in such cases the issue becomes one of plan complexity. A comparison of plan complexity revealed that the average 1 cm leaf width plan required roughly 60% fewer segments and over 40% fewer monitor units than required by 0.5 cm leaf width plans. This allows a significant decrease in whole body dose and total treatment time. For very complex IMRT plans, the treatment delivery time may affect the biologically effective dose. A clinically significant improvement in plan quality from using narrower leaves was evident only in cases with very small target volumes or those with concavities that are small with respect to the MLC leaf width. For the remaining cases investigated in this study, there was no clinical advantage to reducing the MLC leaf width from 1 to 0.5 cm. In such cases, there is no justification for the increased treatment time and whole body dose associated with the narrower MLC leaf width.}, }
@article {pmid15650729, year = {2005}, author = {Kenward, B and Weir, AA and Rutz, C and Kacelnik, A}, title = {Behavioural ecology: tool manufacture by naive juvenile crows.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {433}, number = {7022}, pages = {121}, doi = {10.1038/433121a}, pmid = {15650729}, issn = {1476-4687}, support = {BB/C517392/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Crows/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Female ; Learning/physiology ; Male ; *Manufactured Materials ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides) are the most prolific avian tool-users. Regional variation in the shape of their tools may be the result of cumulative cultural evolution--a phenomenon considered to be a hallmark of human culture. Here we show that hand-raised juvenile New Caledonian crows spontaneously manufacture and use tools, without any contact with adults of their species or any prior demonstration by humans. Our finding is a crucial step towards producing informed models of cultural transmission in this species, and in animals in general.}, }
@article {pmid15648488, year = {2004}, author = {Alevriadou, A and Hatzinikolaou, K and Tsakiridou, H and Grouios, G}, title = {Field dependence-independence of normally developing and mentally retarded boys of low and upper/middle socioeconomic status.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {99}, number = {3 Pt 1}, pages = {913-923}, doi = {10.2466/pms.99.3.913-923}, pmid = {15648488}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Child ; *Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; *Field Dependence-Independence ; Humans ; *Intellectual Disability ; Male ; Motivation ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {The field dependence-independence of normally developing and mentally retarded boys of low and upper/middle socioeconomic status was examined. To test the cognitive style, the 96 young participants were subdivided into four groups (n=24 per group) matched on mean mental age, using the Raven Colored Progressive Matrices. Two groups of mentally retarded boys (Groups A and B) and two groups of normally developing boys (Groups C and D). Groups A and C were matched on mental age at 5.6 yr.; Groups B and D were matched on mental age at 7.6 yr. Each pair of groups differed significantly in mean chronological age. Within each subgroup, 12 boys came from upper/middle socioeconomic status families and 12 from low socioeconomic status families. Analysis indicated absence of significant differences between Groups A and C on field dependence-independence, but there were statistically significant differences between Groups B and D. Moreover, analysis showed that boys from families of upper/middle socioeconomic status, both normally developing and mentally retarded, were consistently more field independent than boys from families of low socioeconomic status. Finally, conclusions were drawn concerning the empirical and theoretical benefits for psychology and education, which arise from the study of field dependence-independence of mentally retarded individuals.}, }
@article {pmid15639383, year = {2005}, author = {Dahlin, CR and Balda, RP and Slobodchikoff, C}, title = {Food, audience and sex effects on pinyon jay (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) communication.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {68}, number = {1}, pages = {25-39}, doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2004.09.003}, pmid = {15639383}, issn = {0376-6357}, mesh = {*Animal Communication ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Birds ; Discrimination, Psychological ; Female ; Food ; Male ; Sex Factors ; Social Behavior ; Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Pinyon jays (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) have a complex social system that may require a complex communication system. They need to interact with multiple flock members, and they form life-long pair-bonds. We researched whether pinyon jays would selectively vocalize depending on the presence or absence of food and certain flock members. We recorded the vocalizations of nine pinyon jays (four pair-bonds and one single male) in response to different audience types. The calls of the test bird were recorded after it was given either an empty food cup or one containing 50 pinyon pine (Pinus edulis) seeds, and the bird was in the presence of one of the following audience types: (1) two males and two females including subject's mate; (2) two males and two females excluding subject's mate; (3) four males excluding mate; (4) three females excluding mate; and (5) no audience. Birds gave fewer calls when there was food. When alone, birds called in a manner that may maximize long-distance transmission. Trends indicate that birds call differently to their mate. A sex effect was also found in that males and females called in a distinct manner, possibly reflecting differences in dominance status. Overall, birds responded to the presence or absence of an audience.}, }
@article {pmid15631062, year = {2004}, author = {Tiawsirisup, S and Platt, KB and Evans, RB and Rowley, WA}, title = {Susceptibility of Ochlerotatus trivittatus (Coq.), Aedes albopictus (Skuse), and Culex pipiens (L.) to West Nile virus infection.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {4}, number = {3}, pages = {190-197}, doi = {10.1089/vbz.2004.4.190}, pmid = {15631062}, issn = {1530-3667}, support = {U50/CCU720519/CC/ODCDC CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aedes/classification/immunology/*virology ; Animals ; Chickens ; Culex/classification/immunology/*virology ; Disease Susceptibility/veterinary ; Ochlerotatus/immunology/*virology ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Species Specificity ; Viral Load/veterinary ; West Nile Fever/*transmission ; West Nile virus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {The susceptibility of Ochlerotatus trivittatus (Coq.) to West Nile virus (WNV) was assessed by comparing it to the susceptibility of Aedes albopictus (Skuse), a likely bridge vector, and Culex pipiens (L.), a primary WNV amplifying species. The three species were infected with WNV (NY crow-1999) by feeding on 2-3-day-old chickens with serum virus titers ranging from 10(2.5) to 10(9.5) cell culture infective dose (CID) 50s/mL. The lowest infective titer for Oc. trivittatus and Cx. pipiens was 10(4.5) CID50s/mL. Thirteen percent (4/32) and 2% (1/45) of each species became infected postprandially. Infection rates of the two species increased to 43% (6/14) and 15% (6/40) after blood meals with a titer of 10(5.5) CID50s/mL. In contrast no infection was observed in nine Ae. albopictus that fed among three chickens with titers of 10(4.5) CID50s/mL nor in 41 Ae. albopictus that fed among three chickens with titers of 10(5.0) CID50s/mL. The infective dose 50s for Oc. trivittatus, Cx. pipiens and Ae. albopictus were 10(6.0), 10(6.2), and 10(6.6) CID50s/mL, respectively. Collectively these observations suggest that Oc. trivittatus and Cx. pipiens are more susceptible than Ae. albopictus to WNV when they feed on hosts with WNV titers of <10(7.5) CID50s/mL, but nearly as susceptible with blood meal titers of > or =10(7.5) CID50s/mL. Unpublished studies in our laboratory showed that cottontail rabbits fed on by WNV-infected Oc. trivittatus developed viremias as high as 10(5.5) CID50s/mL serum which exceeds 10 (4.2 (3.4-4.6)) CID50s/mL, the predicted ID10+/-95% CI of Oc. trivittatus. Consequently this mosquito, which also feeds on humans and birds has the potential to serve as a bridge vector and as a maintenance vector among mammals.}, }
@article {pmid15620818, year = {2005}, author = {Merten, T}, title = {Factor structure of the Hooper Visual Organization Test: a cross-cultural replication and extension.}, journal = {Archives of clinical neuropsychology : the official journal of the National Academy of Neuropsychologists}, volume = {20}, number = {1}, pages = {123-128}, doi = {10.1016/j.acn.2004.03.001}, pmid = {15620818}, issn = {0887-6177}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Attention ; Brain Damage, Chronic/*diagnosis/psychology ; *Cross-Cultural Comparison ; Discrimination Learning ; Female ; Germany ; Humans ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Orientation ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Psychometrics/statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Psychomotor Performance ; Reaction Time ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Verbal Learning ; }, abstract = {To investigate construct validity of the Hooper Visual Organization Test (VOT), a principal-axis analysis was performed on the neuropsychological test results of 200 German-speaking neurological patients who received a comprehensive battery, encompassing tests of visuospatial functions, memory, attention, executive functions, naming ability, and vocabulary. A four-factor solution was obtained with substantial loadings of the VOT only on the first factor, interpreted as a global dimension of non-verbal cognitive functions. This factor loaded significantly on numerous measures of visuospatial processing and attention (with particularly high loadings on WAIS-R Block Design, Trails A and B, and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices). The remaining three factors were interpreted as memory, verbal abilities (vocabulary), and a separate factor of naming abilities.}, }
@article {pmid15620600, year = {2005}, author = {Palma, L and Beja, P and Tavares, PC and Monteiro, LR}, title = {Spatial variation of mercury levels in nesting Bonelli's eagles from Southwest Portugal: effects of diet composition and prey contamination.}, journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)}, volume = {134}, number = {3}, pages = {549-557}, doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2004.05.017}, pmid = {15620600}, issn = {0269-7491}, mesh = {Animals ; Diet ; Environmental Pollutants/*analysis ; Female ; Food Contamination ; Male ; Mercury/*analysis ; Nesting Behavior ; Portugal ; Predatory Behavior ; Raptors/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Mercury (Hg) was determined in adult Bonelli's eagles (Hieraaetus fasciatus) and their avian prey, from samples of feathers collected between 1992 and 2001 at the nesting sites of 21 pairs in Southwest Portugal. Eagle Hg levels showed great variation, reflecting primarily differences in diet composition and food chain biomagnification. Concentrations were positively correlated with the dietary proportion of insectivorous and omnivorous birds (e.g. egrets, corvids and thrushes), with very low levels for pairs feeding mainly on herbivores (e.g. rabbits, pigeons and partridges). Differences in prey contamination among breeding territories added to dietary effects in determining variation of Hg levels in eagles, shaping a spatial pattern that was largely consistent with a source of contamination in a coal-burning power-plant lying upwind of the study area. Despite this presumed contamination, Hg levels seemed to be of little concern to this eagle population, though there might be subtle deleterious effects on the reproductive output of a few pairs. This study emphasizes the need to account for dietary effects when biomonitoring Hg contamination using birds of prey.}, }
@article {pmid15612578, year = {2004}, author = {El'chinova, GI and Kriventsova, NV and Amelina, SS and Zinchenko, RA}, title = {[Medical genetic study of the Rostov Oblast population: changes in reproductive parameters with time].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {40}, number = {11}, pages = {1576-1579}, pmid = {15612578}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {*Genetics, Population ; Humans ; *Reproduction ; Russia ; }, abstract = {Changes in vital statistics and Crow's indices during the past 50 years have been studied on the basis of answers to 2165 questionnaires divided into five groups according to the age of women surveyed.}, }
@article {pmid15612573, year = {2004}, author = {Kucher, AN and Soltobaeva, ZhO}, title = {[Genetic demographic structure of rural populations of Kyrgyzstan].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {40}, number = {11}, pages = {1540-1548}, pmid = {15612573}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Adult ; Consanguinity ; *Demography ; Female ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Kyrgyzstan ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Sex Ratio ; }, abstract = {The genetic demographic parameters of rural populations of Kyrgyzstan have been studied. The rural population of Kyrgyzstan has the following demographic characteristics: (1) it is demographically young (the population mean age is 25-28 years); (2) the sex ratio in reproductive age groups is unfavorable; (3) the fertility is high (5.78-7.68 pregnancies and 4.27-5.20 surviving children per woman of postreproductive age; (4) interethnic marriages are rare (1.0-5.9%), whereas consanguineous marriages are frequent (1.4-12%); (5) Crow's indices are relatively low (I(tot) = 0.24-0.29, I(m) = 0.05-0.13, I(f) = 0.14-0.22); and (6) both male and female contributions of different regions of the republic make unequal contributions to the gametic structure of the population, with the gametic structure varying from generation to generation. Demographic parameters vary in rural populations of different geographic regions and with different ethnic compositions.}, }
@article {pmid15602250, year = {2004}, author = {Sarifakioglu, N and Sarifakioglu, E}, title = {Evaluating the effects of ice application on the pain felt during botulinum toxin type-a injections: a prospective, randomized, single-blind controlled trial.}, journal = {Annals of plastic surgery}, volume = {53}, number = {6}, pages = {543-546}, doi = {10.1097/01.sap.0000139563.51598.75}, pmid = {15602250}, issn = {0148-7043}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Facial Muscles/drug effects ; Facial Pain/*chemically induced/*prevention &amp; control ; Female ; Humans ; *Ice ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Pain Measurement ; Prospective Studies ; Severity of Illness Index ; Single-Blind Method ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {The pain felt during botulinum toxin type-A injections and the troubled and distressed treatment it induces is common and well known for the patient and the doctor applying the treatment. This problem is further intensified on the patients who have needle phobia. The effect of ice application on the treatment zone before botulinum toxin type-A treatment on the pain felt during injections is investigated. Totally, 24 patients who underwent botulinum toxin type-A treatment in upper face region for esthetic purposes are included in the study. Ice was applied 5 minutes before the injections on the right lateral orbital zones (crow's feet area) of the patients, whereas on their left sides, toxin was injected without applying any ice. All the drugs were diluted by normal saline; 5 U of active botulinum toxin type-A was used in each diziem (0.1 mL). Total injection number was determined both in right and left areas as 8. Visual analog scale (VAS) was used for pain intensity and evaluation. On the side where ice was applied, the treatment was completed in 1 session and lasted shorter when compared with that of the control side. However, the average VAS values defining the pain that the patients felt in their right and left sides were found as 1.1 and 5.9, respectively. The clinical findings obtained indicated that pain is significantly reduced on the side where ice is applied. The statistical significance of the test results were evaluated by Student's t test, and the difference between VAS values was found statistically significant (P = 0.000).}, }
@article {pmid15591194, year = {2004}, author = {Emery, NJ and Clayton, NS}, title = {The mentality of crows: convergent evolution of intelligence in corvids and apes.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {306}, number = {5703}, pages = {1903-1907}, doi = {10.1126/science.1098410}, pmid = {15591194}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Biological Evolution ; Brain/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; *Cognition ; *Crows/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Hominidae/physiology ; Imagination ; *Intelligence ; Memory ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Discussions of the evolution of intelligence have focused on monkeys and apes because of their close evolutionary relationship to humans. Other large-brained social animals, such as corvids, also understand their physical and social worlds. Here we review recent studies of tool manufacture, mental time travel, and social cognition in corvids, and suggest that complex cognition depends on a "tool kit" consisting of causal reasoning, flexibility, imagination, and prospection. Because corvids and apes share these cognitive tools, we argue that complex cognitive abilities evolved multiple times in distantly related species with vastly different brain structures in order to solve similar socioecological problems.}, }
@article {pmid15590591, year = {2004}, author = {Lucas, JR and Brodin, A and de Kort, SR and Clayton, NS}, title = {Does hippocampal size correlate with the degree of caching specialization?.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {271}, number = {1556}, pages = {2423-2429}, pmid = {15590591}, issn = {0962-8452}, support = {R01 MH062602-01/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological/physiology ; Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Body Weights and Measures ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Geography ; Hippocampus/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Passeriformes/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {A correlation between the degree of specialization for food hoarding and the volume of the hippocampal formation in passerine birds has been accepted for over a decade. The relationship was first demonstrated in family-level comparisons, and subsequently in species comparisons within two families containing a large number of hoarding species, the Corvidae and the Paridae. Recently, this approach has been criticized as invalid and excessively adaptationist. A recent test of the predicted trends with data pooled from previous studies found no evidence for such a correlation in either of these two families. This result has been interpreted as support for the critique. Here we reanalyse the original dataset and also include additional new data on several parid species. Our results show a surprising difference between continents, with North American species possessing significantly smaller hippocampi than Eurasian ones. Controlling for the continent effect makes the hoarding capacity/hippocampal formation correlation clearly significant in both families. We discuss possible reasons for the continent effect.}, }
@article {pmid15589662, year = {2005}, author = {Elliott, JE and Miller, MJ and Wilson, LK}, title = {Assessing breeding potential of peregrine falcons based on chlorinated hydrocarbon concentrations in prey.}, journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)}, volume = {134}, number = {2}, pages = {353-361}, doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2004.08.002}, pmid = {15589662}, issn = {0269-7491}, mesh = {Animals ; Charadriiformes ; Columbidae ; DDT/analysis ; Dichlorodiphenyl Dichloroethylene/analysis ; Eggs/analysis ; Environmental Exposure/adverse effects ; Environmental Monitoring/methods ; Environmental Pollutants/*analysis ; Falconiformes/*physiology ; Hydrocarbons, Chlorinated/*analysis ; Insecticides/analysis ; Pesticides/analysis ; Predatory Behavior ; Reproduction/*drug effects/physiology ; Risk Assessment/methods ; Songbirds ; }, abstract = {Peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus) now breed successfully in most areas of North America from which they were previously extirpated. The loss during the mid-part of the last century of many of the world's peregrine populations was largely a consequence of impaired reproduction caused by the effects of DDE on eggshell quality and embryo hatchability. Population recovery has been attributed to re-introduction efforts, coupled with regulatory restrictions on the use of organochlorine pesticides. Peregrines have not returned to breed in some areas, such as the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia. That region has been extensively planted in fruit orchards which were treated annually with DDT during the early 1950s to the 1970s. Ongoing contamination of avian species, including potential peregrine prey, inhabiting orchards has been documented. In response to an initiative to release peregrines around the city of Kelowna in the Okanagan Valley, we collected potential peregrine prey species and analyzed whole bodies for chlorinated hydrocarbon residues. We used a simple bioaccumulation model to predict concentrations of DDE in peregrine eggs using concentrations in prey and estimates of dietary makeup as input. Peregrines would be expected to breed successfully only if they fed on a diet primarily of doves. Feeding on as little as 10% of other species such as starlings, robins, gulls and magpies would produce DDE concentrations in peregrine eggs greater than the threshold of 15 mg/kg. We also estimated the critical concentration of DDE in total prey to be about 0.5 mg/kg, one half of the previous most conservative criterion for peregrine prey. Concentrations of dieldrin and PCBs in peregrine prey are less than suggested critical levels.}, }
@article {pmid15587502, year = {2004}, author = {Hammerschmidt, DE}, title = {Dr Jay McLean--one of the discoveries of heparin.}, journal = {The Journal of laboratory and clinical medicine}, volume = {144}, number = {5}, pages = {273-274}, doi = {10.1016/j.lab.2004.10.007}, pmid = {15587502}, issn = {0022-2143}, mesh = {Heparin/*history ; History, 20th Century ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid15579860, year = {1998}, author = {Capirci, O and Cattani, A and Rossini, P and Volterra, V}, title = {Teaching sign language to hearing children as a possible factor in cognitive enhancement.}, journal = {Journal of deaf studies and deaf education}, volume = {3}, number = {2}, pages = {135-142}, doi = {10.1093/oxfordjournals.deafed.a014343}, pmid = {15579860}, issn = {1465-7325}, abstract = {We describe an educational experience designed to teach Italian Sign Language (LIS) to a group of hearing children. The hypothesis underlying this experience was that learning a visual-gestural language such as LIS may improve children's attentional abilities, visual discrimination, and spatial memory. To examine this hypothesis, we conducted two studies. The first involved an educational experience lasting two years with a group of hearing children attending a Sign Language class from first to second grade. The Raven PM 47 TEST was administered at the beginning and at the end of each school year to children attending the LIS classes and to a control group of children enrolled in the same school but not exposed to LIS. The second study involved an educational experience in first grade. The Raven PM 47 and Corsi's block tapping tests were administered at the beginning and at the end of the school year to the children attending the LIS classes, to children enrolled in the same school but at tending an English class, and to children not exposed to a second language. We found that in both studies the LIS group performed better than the other groups. These results suggest that learning a sign language may lead to a cognitive advancement in hearing children.}, }
@article {pmid15566674, year = {2004}, author = {Zhao, C and Han, F and Lu, LX and Huang, SM and Lin, CG and Deng, XW and Lu, TX and Cui, NJ}, title = {[Intensity modulated radiotherapy for local-regional advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma].}, journal = {Ai zheng = Aizheng = Chinese journal of cancer}, volume = {23}, number = {11 Suppl}, pages = {1532-1537}, pmid = {15566674}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Bone Neoplasms/secondary ; Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/*radiotherapy/secondary ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Lung Neoplasms/secondary ; Lymphatic Metastasis ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms/pathology/*radiotherapy ; Neoplasm Staging ; Radiation Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; Survival Rate ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND &amp; OBJECTIVE: Local-regional uncontrolled is an important reason of treatment failure for advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) after radiotherapy. Local-regional control rate increased with dose to tumor target volumes. Because of the complex anatomy features, dose escalation using conventional two-dimensional radiotherapy planning is limited by the tolerance of adjacent critical organs. In order to enhance doses to target volumes and local-regional control rates, this study explored application of intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) in local-regional advanced NPC.<br><br>METHODS: Sixty patients with naive primary NPC, 49 in stage III, and 11 in stage IVa, received IMRT alone with an inverse planning system (CORVUS 3.0, Peacock plan). Treatment was delivered with the Multi-leaf Intensity Modulating Collimator (MIMiC) using a slice-by-slice arc rotation approach. The prescription dose was 68 Gy to nasopharynx gross tumor volume (GTVnx), 60-64 Gy to positive neck lymph nodes (GTVnd), 60 Gy to clinical target volume I (Target I), and 54 Gy to clinical target volume II (Target II), delivered by 30 fractions. Acute normal tissue effects were graded according to RTOG/EORTC radiation morbidity scoring criteria. Local control rate, regional control rate, distant metastasis-free rate, and overall survival rate were calculated using Kaplan-Meier method.<br><br>RESULTS: Analysis of dose-volume histograms (DVH) showed that the average mean dose delivered were 71.21 Gy to GTVnx, 65.85 Gy to GTVnd(L), 66.26 Gy to GTVnd(R), 67.59 Gy to Target I, and 61.42 Gy to Target II. The mean fractional dosage delivered were 2.37 Gy to GTVnx, 2.20 Gy to GTVnd(L), and 2.21 Gy to GTVnd(R). The average volumes of all target volumes covered by 95% isodose were more than 99%, and the average volume of GTVnx covered by 105% isodose was 43.87%; 5% of brainstem volume, and 1cc of spinal cord volume received average dosage were 46.96 Gy, and 39.99 Gy; 33% of volume of bilateral parotids, and T-M Joints received average dose was less than 38 Gy. There was no Grade 4 acute toxicity in all patients, and incidences of acute grade 3 toxicity of skin, mucous membrane, and salivary glands were 1.7%, 15.0%, and 1.7%, respectively. With the median follow-up of 15.5 months (6-37 months), no patient failed at the primary site, 2 patients relapsed at neck, 7 patients developed distant metastases, 9 patients died. The 3-year local control rate, regional control rate, and distant metastasis-free rate were 96.67%, 94.06%, and 84.98% respectively, 3-year overall survival rate was 74.97%.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: IMRT could escalate the total dose and fractional dosage to target volumes, and decrease the irradiation dose of surrounding critical organs. The acute toxicities were slight and tolerable. The local-regional control rates were satisfied. Distant metastasis is the main cause of failure.}, }
@article {pmid15559727, year = {2004}, author = {Henson, G and Hicock, P}, title = {Rapid detection of West Nile Virus in birds using the VecTest WNV Antigen Assay.}, journal = {Clinical laboratory science : journal of the American Society for Medical Technology}, volume = {17}, number = {4}, pages = {218-220}, pmid = {15559727}, issn = {0894-959X}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*diagnosis/virology ; Crows ; Flavivirus Infections/diagnosis/*veterinary/virology ; *Immunoassay ; Reagent Strips ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine if the VecTest West Nile Virus Antigen Assay (for testing mosquitoes) could be adapted to detect West Nile virus (WNV) rapidly and accurately in birds for screening purposes.<br><br>DESIGN: Cloacal swabs and tissue (kidney and spleen) were harvested from 40 fresh dead birds. The VecTest was used for each swab specimen for detection of WNV; PCR was used for each tissue specimen for confirmation of WNV.<br><br>SETTING: Mississippi Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (MVDL) in Jackson Mississippi and College of Veterinary Medicine-Mississippi State University (CVM-MSU) in Starkville Mississippi. SPECIMENS/SUBJECTS: Forty birds of the Corvid family (31 blue jays and 9 American crows) were included in the study. Fresh dead birds that died from no obvious cause were submitted for testing.<br><br>RESULTS: VecTest results were 35 positives and 5 negatives. PCR results were 35 positives and 5 negatives.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The VecTest showed 100% accuracy.}, }
@article {pmid15555498, year = {2004}, author = {Schoech, SJ and Bowman, R and Reynolds, SJ}, title = {Food supplementation and possible mechanisms underlying early breeding in the Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens).}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {46}, number = {5}, pages = {565-573}, doi = {10.1016/j.yhbeh.2004.06.005}, pmid = {15555498}, issn = {0018-506X}, mesh = {Animal Feed ; Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; Animals ; Corticosterone/*blood ; Dietary Proteins/*metabolism ; Dietary Supplements ; *Ecosystem ; Energy Metabolism/physiology ; Estradiol/*blood ; Female ; Florida ; Male ; Reproduction/*physiology ; Rural Population ; Sexual Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Songbirds/*blood ; Testosterone/*blood ; Time Factors ; Urban Population ; }, abstract = {Food supplementation studies demonstrate the importance of resources in the timing of reproduction. Studies of Florida Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) found that supplemented jays bred earlier than unsupplemented jays and that protein may play a critical role. In this study, free-living scrub-jays were provided with supplemental diets high in fat and protein (HFHP) or high in fat and low in protein (HFLP). Jays in both treatments bred earlier than unsupplemented controls (CNT), but HFHP-supplemented jays bred earlier than HFLP jays. To assess possible mechanisms, we measured testosterone (T) in males, estradiol (E2) in females, and corticosterone (CORT) in both. HFHP males had higher T than HFLP and CNT males, but treatment did not affect E2 levels of females. Pilot studies of scrub-jays in suburban environments suggest that the spatial and temporal predictability of food may influence corticosterone (CORT) levels. Suburban jays have year-round access to human-provided foods and breed earlier than wildland jays; thus, we compared CORT in all treatments in the natural site (wildlands) with those of suburban jays. CORT levels of suburban jays were lower than HFLP, HFHP, and CNT jays. HFHP-supplemented jays had lower CORT levels than those of HFLP and CNT jays. The observed differences in the timing of breeding, both between suburban and wildland populations and between experimental groups in the wildlands, may result from differences in the spatial and temporal predictability of food, and the nutritional differences in diets. Because CORT can negatively affect the reproductive axis, we postulate that nutrient availability, the predictability of food, CORT levels, and initiation of reproduction are inextricably linked.}, }
@article {pmid15538199, year = {2004}, author = {Howards, SS and Vaughan, ED}, title = {Jay Y. Gillenwater.}, journal = {The Journal of urology}, volume = {172}, number = {6 Pt 2}, pages = {2523-2524}, doi = {10.1097/01.ju.0000145103.38780.3c}, pmid = {15538199}, issn = {0022-5347}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Periodicals as Topic/history ; Schools, Medical/history ; Societies, Medical/history ; Urology/*history ; Virginia ; }, }
@article {pmid15533553, year = {2004}, author = {Storms, G and Saerens, J and De Deyn, PP}, title = {Normative data for the Boston Naming Test in native Dutch-speaking Belgian children and the relation with intelligence.}, journal = {Brain and language}, volume = {91}, number = {3}, pages = {274-281}, doi = {10.1016/j.bandl.2004.03.005}, pmid = {15533553}, issn = {0093-934X}, mesh = {Belgium ; Child ; Culture ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Language ; Language Disorders/*diagnosis ; *Language Tests ; Male ; North America ; Semantics ; }, abstract = {This paper reports the results of a normative study of the 60-item version of the Boston Naming Test (BNT) in a group of 371 native Dutch-speaking Flemish children between the ages of 6 and 12 years. Analysis of test results revealed that BNT performance was significantly affected by age and gender. The gathered norms were shown to be significantly lower than published norms for comparable North-American children. Error analysis disclosed remarkable similarities with data from elderly subjects, with verbal semantic paraphasias and 'don't know' responses occurring most frequently. Finally, BNT scores were shown to correlate strongly with general intelligence as measured with the Raven Progressive Matrices. The relation between both measures can be of help in the diagnosis of identification naming deficits and impaired word-retrieval capacities.}, }
@article {pmid15528866, year = {2004}, author = {Aruji, Y and Tamura, K and Sugita, S and Adachi, Y}, title = {Intestinal microflora in 45 crows in Ueno Zoo and the in vitro susceptibilities of 29 Escherichia coli isolates to 14 antimicrobial agents.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {66}, number = {10}, pages = {1283-1286}, doi = {10.1292/jvms.66.1283}, pmid = {15528866}, issn = {0916-7250}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Zoo/*microbiology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/*pharmacology ; Crows/*microbiology ; Drug Resistance, Microbial/*physiology ; Escherichia coli/*drug effects/physiology ; Intestines/*microbiology ; Japan ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; }, abstract = {Microorganisms from 45 jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) captured from July to December 2002 at Ueno Zoo, Tokyo were identified as Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Klebsiella oxytoca, Enterobacter aerogenes, Enterobacter cloacae, Enterobacter agglomerans, Pseudomonas maltophila, Staphylococcus spp., Micrococcus spp., and Streptococcus spp. E. coli showed the highest rate of isolation (21.6%). In an in vitro susceptibility test for 29 isolates of E. coli to 14 antimicrobial agents, all the isolates were resistant to penicillin G, vancomycin, erythromycin, lincomycin, bicozamycin, sulfadimethoxine, and olaquindox. Several isolates of them were also resistant to tetracycline, oxytetracycline, streptomycin, chloramphenicol, and ampicillin. Twenty-nine isolates were divided into 19 serogroups and the most frequently identified serogroups were O8, O114 and O144, which showed the same multidrug-resistant patterns.}, }
@article {pmid15518952, year = {2004}, author = {Le Louarn, C}, title = {[Functional facial analysis after botulin on toxin injection].}, journal = {Annales de chirurgie plastique et esthetique}, volume = {49}, number = {5}, pages = {527-536}, doi = {10.1016/j.anplas.2004.08.012}, pmid = {15518952}, issn = {0294-1260}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Face/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Humans ; Movement ; Muscle Weakness/etiology ; Muscle, Skeletal/physiology ; Neuromuscular Agents/*adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; Risk Factors ; Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {As usual, the face at rest is analysed before btx injection. But the interest of the analysis of the face dynamically, in a functional way, with the help of the palpation, is demonstrated. A key point is to decide to favor the high position of the highbrow more than to totally fade the frontal wrinkles. To perform this, a new functional segmentation of the frontalis muscle is described. The role of the procerus muscle as antagonist of the frontalis muscle, inferior medial part, is explained. To elevate the medium third of the eyebrow, the lateral part of the corrugator muscle is injected with a specific technique. This technique decreases the risk of weakening the overlying frontalis muscle and the underlying levator palpebrae muscle. To achieve a higher elevation of the eyebrow tail, and to totally fade the upper and medium crow's foot, different points of injection on the lateral orbital rim are described, without the risk of migration to the oculo motor muscles. Fading the tear trough with the injection of the superior malar part of the orbicularis oculi muscle is explained. Thanks to the use of the functional analysis of the face and to the comprehension of the fabulous possibilities of the botulinum toxin A, it is now justified to switch from a "ready to wear" way of injection to a "haute couture" way, that is to say adapted to each patient.}, }
@article {pmid15513189, year = {2002}, author = {Barnett, KJ and Corballis, MC}, title = {Ambidexterity and magical ideation.}, journal = {Laterality}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {75-84}, doi = {10.1080/13576500143000131}, pmid = {15513189}, issn = {1357-650X}, abstract = {In a sample of 250 healthy undergraduate students, scores on a scale of magical ideation rose to a peak at the point of ambilaterality on a scale of hand preference, and fell away with increasing right- or left-handedness. This effect mirrors that reported by Crow, Crow, Done, and Leask (1998) who found a dip in academic abilities at the point of ambilaterality, or what they call ''the point of hemispheric indecision''. We relate these findings to genetic theories of laterality in which one allele (RS+) codes for left-cerebral dominance while the other (RS-) leaves laterality to chance. RS-- homozygotes may be susceptible to a lack of dominance, resulting in a disposition to magical ideation and an increased risk of schizophrenia, but also enhanced creativity and lateral thinking.}, }
@article {pmid15507786, year = {2004}, author = {Carruthers, J and Fagien, S and Matarasso, SL and , }, title = {Consensus recommendations on the use of botulinum toxin type a in facial aesthetics.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {114}, number = {6 Suppl}, pages = {1S-22S}, doi = {10.1097/01.PRS.0000144795.76040.D3}, pmid = {15507786}, issn = {1529-4242}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Esthetics ; *Face ; Facial Muscles/drug effects ; Female ; Forehead ; Humans ; *Injections, Subcutaneous/instrumentation/methods ; Male ; Mouth ; Nose ; Paralysis ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {The use of botulinum toxin type A for facial enhancement is the most common cosmetic procedure currently undertaken in the United States. Overall clinical and study experience with botulinum toxin type A treatment for facial enhancement has confirmed that it is effective and safe in both the short and long term. Nevertheless, consistent guidelines representing the consensus of experts for aesthetic treatments of areas other than glabellar lines have not been published. Therefore, a panel of experts on the aesthetic uses of Botox Cosmetic (botulinum toxin type A; Allergan, Inc., Irvine, Calif.) was convened to develop consensus guidelines. This publication comprises the recommendations of this panel and provides guidelines on general issues, such as the importance of the aesthetic evaluation and individualization of treatment, reconstitution and handling of the botulinum toxin type A, procedural considerations, dosing and injection-site variables, and patient selection and counseling. In addition, specific considerations and recommendations are provided by treatment area, including glabellar lines, horizontal forehead lines, "crow's feet," "bunny lines" (downward radiating lines on the sides of nose), the perioral area, the dimpled chin, and platysmal bands. The review of each area encompasses the relevant anatomy, specifics on injection locations and techniques, starting doses (total and per injection point), the influence of other variables, such as gender, and assessment and retreatment issues. Factors unique to each area are presented, and the discussion of each treatment area concludes with a review of key elements that can increase the likelihood of a successful outcome. Summary tables are provided throughout.}, }
@article {pmid15504013, year = {2004}, author = {Weir, AA and Kenward, B and Chappell, J and Kacelnik, A}, title = {Lateralization of tool use in New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides).}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {271 Suppl 5}, number = {Suppl 5}, pages = {S344-6}, pmid = {15504013}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Crows/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; *Functional Laterality ; Motor Skills/*physiology ; New Caledonia ; Plant Stems ; Video Recording ; }, abstract = {We studied laterality of tool use in 10 captive New Caledonian (NC) crows (Corvus moneduloides). All subjects showed near-exclusive individual laterality, but there was no overall bias in either direction (five were left-lateralized and five were right-lateralized). This is consistent with results in non-human primates, which show strong individual lateralization for tool use (but not for other activities), and also with observations of four wild NC crows by Rutledge &amp; Hunt. Jointly, these results contrast with observations that the crows have a population-level bias for manufacturing tools from the left edges of Pandanus sp. leaves, and suggest that the manufacture and use of tools in this species may have different neural underpinnings.}, }
@article {pmid15498376, year = {2004}, author = {Gao, TS and Teng, WP and Shan, ZY and Jin, Y and Guan, HX and Teng, XC and Yang, F and Wang, WB and Shi, XG and Tong, YJ and Li, D and Chen, W}, title = {Effect of different iodine intake on schoolchildren's thyroid diseases and intelligence in rural areas.}, journal = {Chinese medical journal}, volume = {117}, number = {10}, pages = {1518-1522}, pmid = {15498376}, issn = {0366-6999}, mesh = {Child ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Iodide Peroxidase/immunology ; Iodine/*administration &amp; dosage ; Male ; Prevalence ; Rural Health ; Thyroglobulin/immunology ; Thyroid Diseases/*epidemiology ; Thyrotropin/blood ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Reports are increasingly appearing on the side effects caused by excessive iodine intake. Our objective was to find out whether iodine excess would impair the thyroid function and intelligence of schoolchildren in rural areas of China.<br><br>METHODS: A comparative epidemiological study was made on thyroid function and intelligence of the schoolchildren in the areas of low, moderate or excessive intake of iodine. In the area of low intake of iodine (Panshan, Liaoning province, median urinary iodine (MUI) was 99 microg/L), of moderate intake of iodine (Zhangwu, Liaoning Province, MUI was 338 microg/L) and of excessive intake of iodine (Huanghua, Hebei Province, MUI was 631 microg/L). The numbers of schoolchildren from each area selected to take part in a Chinese version of Raven's Test were 190, 236 and 313, respectively, and then 116, 110 and 112 of them were tested for thyroid function, thyroid autoantibody (TAA) and urinary iodine (UI).<br><br>RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the incidences of overt hyperthyroidism, subclinical hyperthyroidism and overt hypothyroidism in Panshan, Zhangwu and Huanghua. But significant differences were found in the incidences of subclinical hypothyroidism (P = 0.001) in these three areas. The incidences of subclinical hypothyroidism in Huanghua and Zhangwu were 4.76 and 3.37 times higher than that in Panshan. TAA were negative in all the schoolchildren with subclinical hypothyroidism except for one. No significant difference was found among the rates of thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) and thyroglobulin antibody (TGAb) in these three areas. Mean serum thyroglobulin (TG) value of Huanghua was markedly higher than those of the other two (P = 0.02). Mean serum TG value of Zhangwu was higher than that of Panshan but the difference was not significant. Mean IQ value of the schoolchildren in Huanghua was markedly higher than that for Zhangwu (P = 0.001). Mean IQ value of the schoolchildren in Panshan was lower than that of Huanghua and higher than that of Zhangwu but, again, the differences were not significant.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The increase of iodine intake may increase the risk for schoolchildren of subclinical hypothyroidism. In the area of iodine excess, most of the subclinical hypothyroidism cases are not of autoimmune origin. No obvious effect of excess iodine was found on mental development of schoolchildren.}, }
@article {pmid15490243, year = {2004}, author = {Zhadan, PM and Sizov, AV and Dautov, SS}, title = {Ultrastructure of the abdominal sense organ of the scallop Mizuchopecten yessoensis (Jay).}, journal = {Cell and tissue research}, volume = {318}, number = {3}, pages = {617-629}, doi = {10.1007/s00441-004-0926-2}, pmid = {15490243}, issn = {0302-766X}, mesh = {Abdomen/*innervation ; Animals ; Cilia/ultrastructure ; Hair Cells, Auditory/physiology/ultrastructure ; Mechanoreceptors/physiology/*ultrastructure ; Mechanotransduction, Cellular/physiology ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Microvilli/ultrastructure ; Mollusca/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Sense Organs/*ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {The sensory epithelium of the abdominal sense organ (ASO) of the scallop Mizuchopecten yessoensis is composed of three cell types, sensory cells, mucous cells, and multiciliated cells. Sensory cells bear a single long (up to 250 microm) cilium surrounded by an inner ring of nine modified microvilli and an outer ring of ordinary microvilli paired with modified microvilli. Sensory cells make up about 90% of the total number of cells in the sensory epithelium. Mucous cells, which are much wider than sensory cells, bear only ordinary microvilli on their apical surface. Rare multiciliated cells with short (4-6 microm) cilia are scattered in the periphery of the sensory epithelium sheet. All hairs, cilium, and microvilli of each sensory cell are interconnected by a fibrous network. Nine modified microvilli of a single cell are interconnected by prominent laterally running fibrous links. Membrane-associated electron-dense material of modified microvilli is connected to the ciliary membrane-associated electron-dense material by fine string-like links. These links mechanically bridge the space between the cilium and modified microvilli, as do mechanical links, described for the stereocilia and kinocilium of vertebrate vestibular and cochlear hair cells. The proximal portion of a sensory cilium is about 100 microm long and has a typical 9 x 2+2 axoneme arrangement. The distal portion of a cilium is approximately 2 times thinner than the proximal one and is filled with homogeneous electron-dense material. Along the distal portion, diffuse material associated with the external surface of the membrane is found. The rigidity of distal portion of a cilium is much less than that of the proximal one.}, }
@article {pmid15484868, year = {2004}, author = {Lazareva, OF and Smirnova, AA and Bagozkaja, MS and Zorina, ZA and Rayevsky, VV and Wasserman, EA}, title = {Transitive responding in hooded crows requires linearly ordered stimuli.}, journal = {Journal of the experimental analysis of behavior}, volume = {82}, number = {1}, pages = {1-19}, pmid = {15484868}, issn = {0022-5002}, mesh = {Animals ; *Association ; Cognition/physiology ; Crows ; *Discrimination Learning ; Discrimination, Psychological ; Feedback ; Reinforcement, Psychology ; Visual Perception/physiology ; }, abstract = {Eight crows were taught to discriminate overlapping pairs of visual stimuli (A+ B-, B+ C-, C+ D-, and D+ E-). For 4 birds, the stimuli were colored cards with a circle of the same color on the reverse side whose diameter decreased from A to E (ordered feedback group). These circles were made available for comparison to potentially help the crows order the stimuli along a physical dimension. For the other 4 birds, the circles corresponding to the colored cards had the same diameter (constant feedback group). In later testing, a novel choice pair (BD) was presented. Reinforcement history involving stimuli B and D was controlled so that the reinforcement/nonreinforcement ratios for the latter would be greater than for the former. If, during the BD test, the crows chose between stimuli according to these reinforcement/nonreinforcement ratios, then they should prefer D; if they chose according to the diameter of the feedback stimuli, then they should prefer B. In the ordered feedback group, the crows strongly preferred B over D; in the constant feedback group, the crows' choice did not differ significantly from chance. These results, plus simulations using associative models, suggest that the orderability of the postchoice feedback stimuli is important for crows' transitive responding.}, }
@article {pmid15481673, year = {2004}, author = {Alfonso-Sánchez, MA and Calderón, R and Peña, JA}, title = {Opportunity for natural selection in a Basque population and its secular trend: evolutionary implications of epidemic mortality.}, journal = {Human biology}, volume = {76}, number = {3}, pages = {361-381}, pmid = {15481673}, issn = {0018-7143}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Birth Rate ; Cholera/epidemiology/*mortality ; *Disease Outbreaks ; Female ; Fertility ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Mortality ; *Population Dynamics ; Registries/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Rural Population ; *Selection, Genetic ; Spain/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Analysis of the interaction between mortality patterns and opportunity for natural selection could help to elucidate potential evolutionary implications of epidemic mortality. In this paper secular trends are studied in relation to Crow's index (It) and its components of mortality (Im) and fertility (If), using parish records for family reconstitution in a Basque population. A principal components analysis (91% of the variance accounted for) showed marked quantitative and qualitative variations of Im and If depending on the stage of demographic transition of the population analyzed: In pretransitional societies the opportunity for natural selection is determined mainly by differential prereproductive mortality, whereas in posttransitional societies selection resulting from differential fertility plays a key role. The highest values for the mortality component (range 0.81-1.26) and for the relative contribution of Im, to It (range 47.1-57.2%) were observed in periods with a high incidence of infectious diseases and when the most severe mortality crises were detected (1830-1859, 1860-1889, and 1890-1919). A differential incidence of epidemic mortality was also found at prereproductive ages (before 16 years) and at reproductive ages (16-45 years), which provides strong support for the idea of the long-term genetic consequences of mortality crises.}, }
@article {pmid15478751, year = {2004}, author = {Oaksford, M and Moussakowski, M}, title = {Negations and natural sampling in data selection: ecological versus heuristic explanations of matching bias.}, journal = {Memory &amp; cognition}, volume = {32}, number = {4}, pages = {570-581}, pmid = {15478751}, issn = {0090-502X}, mesh = {Bias ; *Choice Behavior ; *Cognition ; Decision Making ; *Ecology ; Humans ; *Judgment ; Probability ; Psychology/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Reaction Time ; }, abstract = {Matching bias occurs when people ignore negations when testing a hypothesis--for example, if A, then not 2--and select possible data types that are named in the hypothesis (i.e., A and 2; Evans &amp; Lynch, 1973). There are two explanations of this bias: the heuristic account and the contrast class account. The latter is part of Oaksford and Chater's (1994) ecological approach to data selection. On this account, a contrast set (i.e., birds that are not ravens) has a higher probability than the original set (i.e., birds that are ravens). This article reports two experiments in which these accounts make divergent predictions. The same materials were used as those in Yama (2001), who found more support for the heuristic approach. Experiment 1 replicated Yama with Western participants. Experiment 2 used a procedure introduced by Oaksford and Wakefield (2003). Rather than present participants with one of each of the four possible data types all at once, 50 were presented one at a time. The proportions of each data type reflected the relevant probabilities. The results supported the ecological approach, showing that people constructed contrast sets that strongly influenced their data selection behavior. The results were not consistent with the heuristic approach.}, }
@article {pmid15476082, year = {2004}, author = {Macedo, CS and Andreucci, LC and Montelli, Tde C}, title = {[Cognitive function evaluation in school-age children from economically impoverished community: results of enriched education program].}, journal = {Arquivos de neuro-psiquiatria}, volume = {62}, number = {3B}, pages = {852-857}, doi = {10.1590/s0004-282x2004000500021}, pmid = {15476082}, issn = {0004-282X}, mesh = {Brazil ; Child ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/rehabilitation ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Learning Disabilities/*diagnosis/rehabilitation ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Poverty ; Psychology, Educational/*methods ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Teaching/*methods ; }, abstract = {Sixty-three school-age children of low socioeconomic status and exposed to adverse environmental factors (malnutrition, familiar distress and low familiar incomes) were submitted to neuropsychological tests to investigate possible cognitive impairments. Classical neuropsychological test battery was employed (Raven test, Bender Gestalt copy of complex figures, draw-a-man Goodenough test). Low intellectual level was found on 30% and 74% showed higher cognitive disorders (visuoperceptual skills and/or perseverations and/or global shapes perception and/or draw-a-man disturbances). These children attended to a school with semi-boarding regimen which receives children under personnel and social adverse factors. School program was enriched with learning activity program based on Piaget and psychomotor exercises based on Lambert for at least one year. They also had some other activities, as painting, singing, computer training, English and Spanish classes. Twenty children were newly accepted and 43 attended at school for one, two or three years. We found significant correlations (p < or =0.05) between superior intellectual performances, bigger periods of attendance at school and methods for cognitive development. There was no association between other brain cognitive functions examined, the attendance to the teaching programs and the years of permanence at school.}, }
@article {pmid15471374, year = {2004}, author = {Locatelli, L and Zivadinov, R and Grop, A and Zorzon, M}, title = {Frontal parenchymal atrophy measures in multiple sclerosis.}, journal = {Multiple sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England)}, volume = {10}, number = {5}, pages = {562-568}, doi = {10.1191/1352458504ms1093oa}, pmid = {15471374}, issn = {1352-4585}, mesh = {Adult ; Atrophy ; Cognition Disorders/*pathology ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/*pathology ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting/*pathology ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to establish whether, in a cross-sectional study, the normalized measures of whole and regional brain atrophy correlate better with tests assessing the cognitive function than the absolute brain atrophy measures. The neuropsychological performances and disability have been assessed in 39 patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS). T1- and T2-lesion load (LL) of total brain and frontal lobes (FLs) were measured using a reproducible semiautomated technique. The whole brain volume and the regional brain parenchymal volume (RBPV) of FLs were obtained using a computerized interactive program, which incorporates semiautomated and automated segmentation processes. Normalized measures of brain atrophy, i.e., brain parenchymal fraction (BPF) and regional brain parenchymal fraction (RBPF) of FLs, were calculated. The scan-rescan, inter- and intrarater coefficient of variation (COV) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) have been estimated. The RBPF of FLs showed an acceptable level of reproducibility which ranged from 1.7% for intrarater variability to 3.2% for scan-rescan variability. The mean ICC was 0.88 (CI 0.82-0.93). The RBPF of FLs demonstrated stronger magnitudes of correlation with neuropsychological functioning, disability and quantitative MRI lesion measures than RBPV. These differences were statistically significant: P<0.001 for Stroop Color Word Interference test, P<0.001 for Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test, P=0.04 for Standard Raven Progressive Matrices, P=0.049 for Expanded Disability Status Scale, P=0.01 for T2-LL of FLs and P<0.001 for T1-LL of FLs. BPF demonstrated significant correlations with tests assessing cognitive functions, whereas BPAV did not. The correlation analysis results were supported by the results of multiple regression analysis which showed that only the normalized brain atrophy measures were associated with tests exploring the cognitive functions. These data suggest that RBPF is a reproducible and sensitive method for measuring frontal parenchymal atrophy. The normalized measures of whole and regional brain parenchymal atrophy should be preferred to absolute measures in future studies that correlate neuropsychological performances and brain atrophy measures in patients with MS.}, }
@article {pmid15467290, year = {2005}, author = {Iwaniuk, AN and Dean, KM and Nelson, JE}, title = {Interspecific allometry of the brain and brain regions in parrots (psittaciformes): comparisons with other birds and primates.}, journal = {Brain, behavior and evolution}, volume = {65}, number = {1}, pages = {40-59}, doi = {10.1159/000081110}, pmid = {15467290}, issn = {0006-8977}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; *Brain Mapping ; Organ Size ; Parrots/anatomy &amp; histology ; Primates/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Psittaciformes/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Despite significant progress in understanding the evolution of the mammalian brain, relatively little is known of the patterns of evolutionary change in the avian brain. In particular, statements regarding which avian taxa have relatively larger brains and brain regions are based on small sample sizes and statistical analyses are generally lacking. We tested whether psittaciforms (parrots, cockatoos and lorikeets) have larger brains and forebrains than other birds using both conventional and phylogenetically based methods. In addition, we compared the psittaciforms to primates to determine if cognitive similarities between the two groups were reflected by similarities in brain and telencephalic volumes. Overall, psittaciforms have relatively larger brains and telencephala than most other non-passerine orders. No significant difference in relative brain or telencephalic volume was detected between psittaciforms and passerines. Comparisons of other brain region sizes between psittaciforms and other birds, however, exhibited conflicting results depending upon whether body mass or a brain volume remainder (total brain volume - brain region volume) was used as a scaling variable. When compared to primates, psittaciforms possessed similar relative brain and telencephalic volumes. The only exception to this was that in some analyses psittaciforms had significantly larger telencephala than primates of similar brain volume. The results therefore provide empirical evidence for previous claims that psittaciforms possess relatively large brains and telencephala. Despite the variability in the results, it is clear that psittaciforms tend to possess large brains and telencephala relative to non-passerines and are similar to primates in this regard. Although it could be suggested that this reflects the advanced cognitive abilities of psittaciforms, similar studies performed in corvids and other avian taxa will be required before this claim can be made with any certainty.}, }
@article {pmid15459452, year = {2004}, author = {Sugiyama, A and Inoue-Murayama, M and Miwa, M and Ohashi, R and Kayang, BB and Mizutani, M and Nirasawa, K and Odai, M and Minezawa, M and Watanabe, S and Ito, S}, title = {Polymorphism of dopamine receptor D4 exon I corresponding region in chicken.}, journal = {Zoological science}, volume = {21}, number = {9}, pages = {941-946}, doi = {10.2108/zsj.21.941}, pmid = {15459452}, issn = {0289-0003}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Birds/genetics ; Breeding/methods ; Chickens/*genetics ; Exons/*genetics ; Gene Amplification ; Gene Frequency ; Genotype ; Humans ; Molecular Sequence Data ; *Polymorphism, Genetic ; Receptors, Dopamine D2/*genetics ; Receptors, Dopamine D4 ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {In stockbreeding, there are indications that behavioral traits of livestock have an effect on breeding and production. If the variation in individual behavior is related to that in neurotransmitter-related genes such as in humans, it would be possible to breed pedigrees composed of individuals having behavioral traits that are useful to production and breeding using selection based on genotypes. In this study, we investigated the exon I region of dopamine receptor D4 (DRD4), in which variation is related to psychiatric disorder in humans, in major poultry species namely Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica), chicken (Gallus gallus), ring-necked pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) and helmeted guinea fowl (Numida meleagris). Furthermore, we investigated Japanese cormorant (Phalacrocorax capillatus) and Japanese jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) as an out-group. In these species of birds, the repeat of proline was identified in the region corresponding to the human polymorphic region. The repeat number was 9 in Japanese quail, ring-necked pheasant and Japanese cormorant; 12 in helmeted guinea fowl; and 3 in Japanese jungle crow. However, no polymorphism was found in these species. In contrast, polymorphism was observed in chicken and two alleles with 8 and 9 repeats were identified. Although 9 repeats (allele 9) were predominant in most chicken breeds, Black Minorca had only 8 repeats (allele 8). Intra-breed polymorphism was found in 6 out of 12 breeds, and two alleles (alleles 8 and 9) were detected in these breeds. This polymorphism, which is the first to be reported on a neurotransmitter-related gene in birds, would contribute significant information for elucidation of differences in behavioral traits in chicken breeds.}, }
@article {pmid15453486, year = {2004}, author = {van der Tol, PP and van der Beek, SS and Metz, JH and Noordhuizen-Stassen, EN and Back, W and Braam, CR and Weijs, WA}, title = {The effect of preventive trimming on weight bearing and force balance on the claws of dairy cattle.}, journal = {Journal of dairy science}, volume = {87}, number = {6}, pages = {1732-1738}, doi = {10.3168/jds.S0022-0302(04)73327-5}, pmid = {15453486}, issn = {0022-0302}, mesh = {Animal Husbandry/methods ; Animals ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Cattle/*physiology ; Cattle Diseases/etiology/prevention &amp; control ; Female ; Foot Diseases/etiology/prevention &amp; control/veterinary ; Forelimb/physiology ; Hindlimb/physiology ; *Hoof and Claw ; Lameness, Animal/*prevention &amp; control ; Pressure ; Walking/physiology ; Weight-Bearing/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Claw disorders and lameness in dairy cattle are an increasing problem of the modern dairy industry. To prevent claw disorders from evolving from the subclinical to the clinical stage, trimming is the management practice most routinely applied. The goal of preventive trimming (Toussaint-Raven method) is to promote natural loading by increasing the weight-bearing contact area of the claws and improving the balance between the medial and lateral claw. The biomechanical effect of preventive claw trimming was investigated with the aid of pressure distribution and ground reaction force recordings of the standing cow sampled simultaneously at 250 Hz. It appeared that preventive trimming of the hind limbs (n = 10) brought the claws slightly more in balance. Before trimming, 80% of the total force is taken up by the lateral claw and 20% by the medial claw. After trimming, this becomes 70 to 30%, respectively. Thereby, a significant increase in the weight-bearing contact area from 27.5 to 40.0 cm2 was achieved, resulting in a significant decrease in average pressure. However, the claws remained subjected to unaltered, high maximum pressures after trimming. The suggestion was made that the main focus of claw trimming should not be force balance; instead, a reduction of local maximum pressures at the contact area should be targeted in such a way that the strongest parts of the claw capsule (i.e., the wall) will be subjected to the highest pressures.}, }
@article {pmid15446803, year = {2004}, author = {Santanam, L and He, T and Yudelev, M and Burmeister, J}, title = {Applicability of CORVUS pencil beam model and scatter dose model for intensity modulated neutron therapy.}, journal = {Physics in medicine and biology}, volume = {49}, number = {16}, pages = {3751-3766}, doi = {10.1088/0031-9155/49/16/020}, pmid = {15446803}, issn = {0031-9155}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Calibration ; Humans ; Ions ; Models, Statistical ; Models, Theoretical ; Monte Carlo Method ; Neutrons/*therapeutic use ; Photons ; Radiometry ; Radiotherapy/methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; Radiotherapy, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*instrumentation/*methods ; Software ; }, abstract = {Intensity modulated neutron radiotherapy (IMNRT) is currently being investigated as a mechanism to improve dose conformality in neutron radiotherapy, thereby minimizing normal tissue toxicity. This study investigates the applicability of two different dose calculation algorithms for IMNRT, a commercial system which utilizes a finite size pencil beam (FSPB) model, and an in-house planning system which uses a differential scatter air ratio (DSAR) method. Calculated dose distributions were compared with measured profiles for validation purposes. The beam-profiles matched to within +/-3% in the central region of the field. The 80-20% penumbra width as measured using an ionization chamber varied as 0.6 cm and 1.0 cm for 3 x 3 and 10 x 10 cm2 profile at a depth of 2.5 cm. The FSPB model fitted the data to a penumbra width of 0.1 cm for both 3 x 3 and 10 x 10 cm2 profiles. These results indicate that the commercial system needs further investigation. However, the in-house planning system has been validated for small irregular fields for IMNRT to an accuracy of +/-5%. Absolute dose measurements agreed with the calculated doses to within +/-3%.}, }
@article {pmid15386259, year = {2004}, author = {Budnik, A and Liczbińska, G and Gumna, I}, title = {Demographic trends and biological status of historic populations from Central Poland: the Ostrów Lednicki microregion.}, journal = {American journal of physical anthropology}, volume = {125}, number = {4}, pages = {369-381}, doi = {10.1002/ajpa.10272}, pmid = {15386259}, issn = {0002-9483}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Bone and Bones/anatomy &amp; histology ; *Demography ; *Genetics, Population ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; History, Medieval ; Humans ; *Life Expectancy ; *Life Tables ; *Mortality ; Poland ; Rural Population/*history ; Selection, Genetic ; Sex Factors ; Social Change ; }, abstract = {The microregion of Ostrów Lednicki in the province of Wielkopolska was the center of the formation of the Polish State in Early Middle Ages. The analysis of skeletal remains and parish records from the region documented the biological status of inhabitants and its changes over a millennium. The study material comprised 424 human skeletons from an Early Medieval burial ground on Lake Lednica, records of 2,704 deaths from the registers of the Roman Catholic parish of Dziekanowice, made between 1818-1903, data on the deaths of 929,192 inhabitants of rural areas all over the province Wielkopolska obtained from Prussian statistical materials for the years 1865-1900, and comparative data from the literature. Assuming both a stationary population model and a stable population model with nonzero natural increase, parameters of life tables and measures of opportunity for natural selection (Crow's index I(m), potential gross reproductive rate R(pot), and the biological state index I(bs)) were calculated for the Early Middle Ages and for the two periods of the 19th century which were characterized by different laws of land ownership and thus different rural economies. In the first period, peasants were tenants, whereas in the second, they were given freehold of the land they cultivated. Causes of death were also analyzed. A distinct increase in longevity from the early Middle Ages to the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century was found. This was related to a higher level of demographic development in the parish of Dziekanowice during the 19th century, which was achieved earlier than in other areas of Poland. This was confirmed by genetic measures: coefficients of exogamy and coefficients of kinship. The reasons were related to the historical prominence of this region and to its proximity to the first two capitals of the Polish state, Gniezno and Poznań.}, }
@article {pmid15379222, year = {2004}, author = {Silberstein, RB and Song, J and Nunez, PL and Park, W}, title = {Dynamic sculpting of brain functional connectivity is correlated with performance.}, journal = {Brain topography}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {249-254}, doi = {10.1023/b:brat.0000032860.04812.b1}, pmid = {15379222}, issn = {0896-0267}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Brain/*physiology ; *Brain Mapping ; Cognition/physiology ; Cortical Synchronization ; Electrodes ; Electroencephalography/methods ; Evoked Potentials, Visual/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Linear Models ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Photic Stimulation/methods ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Reaction Time/physiology ; }, abstract = {In this study, we examined the relationship between cortical coupling, reflected in event related partial coherence (ERPC) and cognitive processing speed while subjects performed a set of Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM), a task used to measure IQ. Fifty-five participants (29 males) performed a computerized version of the RPM where they were required to identify the shape (probe) that is consistent with a matrix of displayed shapes. Participants indicated a match or non-match by pressing a micro-switch with either the right or left hand. The steady state visually evoked potential (SSVEP) was elicited by a 13 Hz uniform visual flicker superimposed over the visual fields and the SSVEP event-related coherence (SSVEP-ERPC) calculated for all 2016 unique electrode pairs. The linear correlation between SSVEP-ERPC and processing speed (the inverse of reaction time) was calculated for all electrode pairs for all time points during the 3 sec interval that the probes were on the screen. Using correlation coeffident thresholds corresponding to p=0.001 we identified those electrode pairs where SSVEP-ERPC or neural synchronization was significantly correlated with processing speed. At a point 0.8 sec before the appearance of the probe we observed that the synchronization between specific prefrontal, frontal and central sites was correlated with processing speed. We suggest that this relationship may reflect the efficiency of working memory processes and speed of information processing.}, }
@article {pmid15375691, year = {2004}, author = {Hobson, KA and Bowen, GJ and Wassenaar, LI and Ferrand, Y and Lormee, H}, title = {Using stable hydrogen and oxygen isotope measurements of feathers to infer geographical origins of migrating European birds.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {141}, number = {3}, pages = {477-488}, pmid = {15375691}, issn = {0029-8549}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Europe ; Feathers/*chemistry ; Female ; Hydrogen/analysis ; Male ; *Movement ; Oxygen Isotopes/analysis ; Population Dynamics ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {Successful application of stable-hydrogen isotope measurements (deltaDf) of feathers to track origins of migratory birds and other wildlife requires a fundamental understanding of the correlation between deltaDf and deuterium patterns in rainfall (deltaDp) over continental scales. A strong correlation between deltaDp and deltaDf has been confirmed for birds and insects in North America, but not yet for other continents. Here, we compare deltaDf data from resident European birds to new deltaDp basemaps for Europe. Three maps, representing growing-season and mean annual deltaDp estimates from an elevation-explicit, detrended interpolation model and growing-season deltaDp estimates from simple Kriging, all indicate that strong isotope gradients occur across Europe with a general depletion occurring in a northeast direction. The feather data, representing 141 individuals of 25 avian species from 38 sites, ranged from -131 to -38 per thousand. Regression analysis showed that strong correlations existed between both mean annual and growing-season deltaDp estimated by detrended interpolation and deltaDf of non-aquatic and non-corvid birds (r2=0.66 and 0.65, respectively). We also examined mean annual and growing-season delta18Op vs. delta18Of for our samples. Both oxygen regressions were similar (r2=0.56 and 0.57, respectively) but poorer than for deuterium. Our study reveals that deltaD measurements of feathers from migratory birds in Europe may be used to track their origin and movements, and so provide a powerful investigative tool for avian migration research in Europe.}, }
@article {pmid15370408, year = {2004}, author = {Levy, JL and Servant, JJ and Jouve, E}, title = {Botulinum toxin A: a 9-month clinical and 3D in vivo profilometric crow's feet wrinkle formation study.}, journal = {Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology}, volume = {6}, number = {1}, pages = {16-20}, doi = {10.1080/14764170410028997}, pmid = {15370408}, issn = {1476-4172}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional/*instrumentation ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Prospective Studies ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine the duration of the effects of a defined dose of BTX-A on crow's feet formation wrinkles.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-five patients each received one injection of 12 units of BTX-A in the orbicularis oculi muscle on both sides of the face. The results were evaluated at 3, 6 and 9 months. Standardized photographs were taken of the wrinkle formations at rest at each step of the 9-month period following the treatment, and the wrinkles were then rated on photographs by blinded observers. Three-dimensional (3D) in vivo profilometry was also used to quantify the degree of improvement.<br><br>RESULTS: Both the self-assessments by the patients themselves and the objective assessments of the 3D profilometry study provided similar results, but the independent observer assessment results were slightly more optimistic. There was a statistically significant difference observed between baseline and the evaluations at both 3 and 6 months.<br><br>CONCLUSION: BTX-A is a safe and effective method for treating crow's feet wrinkles. In both the observer assessment and the 3D skin profilometric assessment, a clear improvement was shown at 6 months.}, }
@article {pmid15369537, year = {2004}, author = {, }, title = {General practitioner recognition of mental illness in the absence of a 'gold standard'.}, journal = {The Australian and New Zealand journal of psychiatry}, volume = {38}, number = {10}, pages = {789-794}, doi = {10.1080/j.1440-1614.2004.01463.x}, pmid = {15369537}, issn = {0004-8674}, mesh = {Australia/epidemiology ; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ; Family Practice/*standards ; Humans ; International Classification of Diseases ; Mass Screening/methods ; Mental Disorders/*diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Mental Health Services/*standards ; Primary Health Care/*standards ; *Professional Competence ; Recognition, Psychology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To compare general practitioner (GP) recognition of mental illness with cases identified by screening and diagnostic instruments.<br><br>METHOD: Cross-sectional survey (part of the Mental Health and General Practice Investigation [MaGPIe] study) set in the lower North Island of New Zealand. The study sample consisted of consecutive patients from a random sample of GPs who were screened using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). Based on GHQ scores a stratified random sample of patients was selected and invited to participate in an in-depth interview to assess their psychological health and a subsequent longitudinal study. GPs assessed patients' psychological health using a 5-point scale of severity. Patients completed the GHQ-12, Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI), Somatic and Psychological Health Report (SPHERE-12) and World Health Organization's Disability Assessment Schedule Version II (WHODAS).<br><br>RESULTS: Seventy GPs (90% response) and 775 patients (70% response) were included in analyses. Overall, GPs recognized symptoms of psychological disorders in the past 12 months in 56.4% (95% CI=49.3-63.5) of patients. Agreement between GP rates of recognition of mental disorders and diagnostic or symptom rating instruments varied depending on the instruments used and was highest when there was concordance between several instruments and high levels of disability. Only 17.2% (95% CI=14.5-19.9) of the patients identified by at least one of the GHQ-12, CIDI or SPHERE, were identified by all three instruments.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In understanding rates of recognition of mental disorders by GPs, careful consideration needs to be given to the degree to which any single instrument can be utilized as a diagnostic 'gold standard'.}, }
@article {pmid15362815, year = {2004}, author = {Wobeser, G and Bollinger, T and Leighton, FA and Blakley, B and Mineau, P}, title = {Secondary poisoning of eagles following intentional poisoning of coyotes with anticholinesterase pesticides in western Canada.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {40}, number = {2}, pages = {163-172}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-40.2.163}, pmid = {15362815}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Brain/*enzymology ; Carbofuran/poisoning ; Cause of Death ; Cholinesterase Inhibitors/*analysis/*poisoning ; *Coyotes ; *Eagles ; Female ; Foxes ; Insecticides/*poisoning ; Male ; Mephitidae ; Northwest Territories/epidemiology ; Passeriformes ; Pesticide Residues/*analysis ; Poisoning/epidemiology/veterinary ; Retrospective Studies ; Saskatchewan/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Records of eagles, coyotes (Canis latrans), and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) necropsied at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, between 1967 and 2002 were reviewed for cases suggestive of anticholinesterase poisoning. From 1993 to 2002, 54 putative poisoning incidents involving 70 bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and 10 golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetus) were identified. Of these, 50 incidents occurred in Saskatchewan, two were in Manitoba, and one occurred in each of Alberta and the Northwest Territories. The diagnosis was confirmed in eight instances by demonstration of pesticide in ingesta from eagles or known use of pesticide at the site together with brain cholinesterase (AChE) reduction of >50% in at least one animal. A presnmptive diagnosis of poisoning was made in 33 incidents based on brain AChE reduction of >50% in at least one animal; 13 incidents were considered suspicious because of circumstantial evidence of the death of eagles in association with other species and limited AChE reduction. Other wild species were found dead in 85% of the incidents involving eagles. Coyotes, foxes, black-billed magpies (Pica pica), and striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis) were associated with 34, six, six, and three incidents, respectively. There were eight additional incidents that did not involve eagles in which poisoning was diagnosed in coyotes. Carbofuran was identified in nine incidents. Carbamate poisoning was indicated on the basis of reactivation of brain AChE activity in two additional incidents. Brain AChE activity was not reduced from normal in eagles in four of seven incidents in which carbofuran was identified. The organophosplorous insecticide terbufos was found together with carbofuran in one incident. Brain AChE activity was measured in wild canids and in eagles in 15 incidents; in all of these incidents, brain AChE was redulced by >50% in at least one mammal, whereas this level of reduction occrred in eagles in only four incidents. Use of anticholinesterase pesticides to poison coyotes is illegal, but the practice continues and secondary poisoning of eagles is a problem of unknown proportions in western North America.}, }
@article {pmid15347577, year = {2005}, author = {Marchin, M and Kelly, PT and Fang, J}, title = {Tracker: continuous HMMER and BLAST searching.}, journal = {Bioinformatics (Oxford, England)}, volume = {21}, number = {3}, pages = {388-389}, doi = {10.1093/bioinformatics/bti012}, pmid = {15347577}, issn = {1367-4803}, support = {P20 RR16475/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Database Management Systems ; *Databases, Genetic ; Documentation/methods ; *Electronic Mail ; Information Storage and Retrieval/*methods ; Internet ; *Natural Language Processing ; *PubMed ; Sequence Alignment/methods ; Sequence Analysis/*methods ; User-Computer Interface ; Vocabulary, Controlled ; }, abstract = {SUMMARY: Tracker is a web-based email alert system for monitoring protein database searches using HMMER and Blast-P, nucleotide searches using Blast-N and literature searches of the PubMed database. Users submit searches via a web-based interface. Searches are saved and run against updated databases to alert users about new information. If there are new results from the saved searches, users will be notified by email and will then be able to access results and link to additional information on the NCBI website. Tracker supports Boolean AND/OR operations on HMMER and BLASTP result sets to allow users to broaden or narrow protein searches.<br><br>AVAILABILITY: The server is located at http://jay.bioinformatics.ku.edu/tracker/index.html. A distribution package including detailed installation procedure is freely available from http://jay.bioinformatics.ku.edu/download/tracker/.}, }
@article {pmid15327911, year = {2004}, author = {Marx, G and Jurkevich, A and Grossmann, R}, title = {Effects of estrogens during embryonal development on crowing in the domestic fowl.}, journal = {Physiology &amp; behavior}, volume = {82}, number = {4}, pages = {637-645}, doi = {10.1016/j.physbeh.2004.05.010}, pmid = {15327911}, issn = {0031-9384}, mesh = {Androgens/blood ; Animals ; Aromatase/metabolism ; Chick Embryo ; Chickens/*physiology ; Energy Metabolism/drug effects/physiology ; Enzyme Inhibitors/pharmacology ; Estradiol/biosynthesis/pharmacology ; Estrogen Antagonists/pharmacology ; Estrogens/*pharmacology ; Fadrozole/pharmacology ; Female ; Male ; Sex Characteristics ; Vocalization, Animal/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {In the domestic fowl, crowing is typically a male-specific vocal behavior while the females normally do not crow. These sex differences in vocalization may result from organizational actions of estrogens during specific periods of embryonic development. To further investigate the role of estrogens in differentiation of crowing and development of the acoustic characteristics of crow calls, male domestic fowls were treated on Incubation Day 8 with estradiol benzoate (EB) or either oil or saline vehicles. On the same incubation day, the female fowls were treated with an aromatase inhibitor, fadrozole, or saline vehicle. An adulthood vocalization of cocks and hens was recorded during corresponding tests of sexual behavior. The exposure to EB or fadrozole had no effect on sexual differentiation of the gonads and all fadrozole-treated hens laid eggs at a rate similar to the control hens that received saline. While the levels of plasma testosterone at adulthood did not differ in treated and untreated cocks, the incidence of crowing rate was significantly lower in cocks that were exposed to estradiol. Acoustic analysis revealed a considerable reduction in duration and acoustic energy of calls while the main frequency characteristics were not changed. Four out of the seven tested fadrozole-treated hens demonstrated regularly crow-like vocalization with shorter duration and lower energy of calls in comparison to crows of the control males. These findings point out to a role for estradiol in organization of crowing behavior and a specific temporal pattern of the crowing call.}, }
@article {pmid15326105, year = {2004}, author = {Saw, SM and Tan, SB and Fung, D and Chia, KS and Koh, D and Tan, DT and Stone, RA}, title = {IQ and the association with myopia in children.}, journal = {Investigative ophthalmology &amp; visual science}, volume = {45}, number = {9}, pages = {2943-2948}, doi = {10.1167/iovs.03-1296}, pmid = {15326105}, issn = {0146-0404}, support = {EY-07354/EY/NEI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Books ; Child, Preschool ; Corneal Topography ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Models, Theoretical ; Multivariate Analysis ; Myopia/epidemiology/pathology/physiopathology/*psychology ; Prevalence ; Reading ; Refraction, Ocular ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To evaluate the association between intelligence and myopia in children.<br><br>METHODS: Cycloplegic refraction and ocular biometry parameters, including axial length, vitreous chamber depth, lens thickness, anterior chamber depth, and corneal curvature were obtained in 1204 Chinese school children aged 10 to 12 years from three schools who were participants in the Singapore Cohort Study Of the Risk Factors for Myopia (SCORM). Intelligence quotient (IQ) was assessed using the nonverbal Raven Standard Progressive Matrix test.<br><br>RESULTS: After controlling for age, gender, school, parental myopia, father's education, and books read per week, myopia (spherical equivalent [SE]) of at least -0.5 D was associated with high nonverbal IQ (highest quartile) versus low IQ (lowest quartile) (odds ratio = 2.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.7-3.4). Controlling for the same factors, children with higher nonverbal IQ scores had significantly more myopic refractions (-1.86 D for children with nonverbal IQ in the highest quartile compared with -1.24 D for children with nonverbal IQ in the lowest quartile; P = 0.002) and longer axial lengths (24.06 mm versus 23.80 mm; P = 0.022). Nonverbal IQ accounted for a greater proportion of the variance in refraction compared with books read per week.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Nonverbal IQ may be an independent risk factor of myopia, and this relationship may not be explained merely by increased reading (books per week) among myopes. An interesting observation is that nonverbal IQ may be a stronger risk factor for myopia compared with books read per week. The complexity of the relationships between nonverbal IQ, reading, and myopia warrant additional studies to clarify any cause-effect relationship.}, }
@article {pmid15324918, year = {2004}, author = {Xiao, Y and Werner-Wasik, M and Michalski, D and Houser, C and Bednarz, G and Curran, W and Galvin, J}, title = {Comparison of three IMRT inverse planning techniques that allow for partial esophagus sparing in patients receiving thoracic radiation therapy for lung cancer.}, journal = {Medical dosimetry : official journal of the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists}, volume = {29}, number = {3}, pages = {210-216}, doi = {10.1016/j.meddos.2004.03.019}, pmid = {15324918}, issn = {0958-3947}, mesh = {Esophagus/*radiation effects ; Humans ; Lung Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Radiation Injuries/*prevention &amp; control ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this study is to compare 3 intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) inverse treatment planning techniques as applied to locally-advanced lung cancer. This study evaluates whether sufficient radiotherapy (RT) dose is given for durable control of tumors while sparing a portion of the esophagus, and whether large number of segments and monitor units are required. We selected 5 cases of locally-advanced lung cancer with large central tumor, abutting the esophagus. To ensure that no more than half of the esophagus circumference at any level received the specified dose limit, it was divided into disk-like sections and dose limits were imposed on each. Two sets of dose objectives were specified for tumor and other critical structures for standard dose RT and for dose escalation RT. Plans were generated using an aperture-based inverse planning (ABIP) technique with the Cimmino algorithm for optimization. Beamlet-based inverse treatment planning was carried out with a commercial simulated annealing package (CORVUS) and with an in-house system that used the Cimmino projection algorithm (CIMM). For 3 of the 5 cases, results met all of the constraints from the 3 techniques for the 2 sets of dose objectives. The CORVUS system without delivery efficiency consideration required the most segments and monitor units. The CIMM system reduced the number while the ABIP techniques showed a further reduction, although for one of the cases, a solution was not readily obtained using the ABIP technique for dose escalation objectives.}, }
@article {pmid15324793, year = {2004}, author = {Herbst, SA}, title = {External fixation of Charcot arthropathy.}, journal = {Foot and ankle clinics}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {595-609, x}, doi = {10.1016/j.fcl.2004.05.010}, pmid = {15324793}, issn = {1083-7515}, mesh = {Arthropathy, Neurogenic/*surgery ; *External Fixators/adverse effects ; Foot/*surgery ; Humans ; }, abstract = {Deformity, instability, and ulceration are present in a high percentage of patients who have Charcot arthropathy. Traditional treatment of these conditions has consisted of debridement, antibiotics, and immobilization with limited weight bearing. These measures are followed by long-term use of various foot and ankle bracing devices, such as the CROW walker, double metal upright, and the lined clam shell AFO with accommodative footwear either incorporated or attached. Sometimes these conservative measures fail and surgery is indicated for foot and ankle deformities with: (1) unbraceable deformity; (2) recurrent ulceration secondary to deformity, instability, or both; and (3) Charcot arthropathy with pain that is unresponsive to conservative measures. Certain acute traumatic situations with impending deformity also may benefit from early surgical stabilization. High deep infection rates (25%) have been reported in surgical reconstruction of feet that have a history of ulceration. The high rates of infection with internal fixation techniques and improved external fixation devices have led surgeons to consider external fixation as a viable alternative for: (1) singlestage correction of a limb with recent or current ulceration; (2) revision or salvage of previously reconstructed limbs; and (3) acute treatment of insufficiency type fractures (impending Charcot arthropathy) in the diabetic who has severe peripheral neuropathy with or without adjuvant internal fixation.}, }
@article {pmid15321842, year = {2004}, author = {Bar Joseph, N and Reisfeld, D and Tirosh, E and Silman, Z and Rennert, G}, title = {Neurobehavioral and cognitive performances of children exposed to low-dose radiation in the Chernobyl accident: the Israeli Chernobyl Health Effects Study.}, journal = {American journal of epidemiology}, volume = {160}, number = {5}, pages = {453-459}, doi = {10.1093/aje/kwh231}, pmid = {15321842}, issn = {0002-9262}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/epidemiology/*etiology ; Child ; Child Behavior/radiation effects ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*radiation effects ; Educational Status ; Embryonic and Fetal Development/radiation effects ; Epidemiologic Methods ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Israel/epidemiology ; Male ; Psychomotor Disorders/epidemiology/*etiology ; *Radioactive Hazard Release ; Ukraine/ethnology ; }, abstract = {Exposure to low levels of ionizing radiation after the Chernobyl accident in the Ukraine could potentially have influenced the neurobehavioral and cognitive performances of exposed children. A cohort study of adolescents who were children at the time of the accident and who subsequently emigrated to Israel was conducted in 1998-2001. A total of 1,629 children (59% of all 2,769 invited) were included in the study (41% from higher contamination areas, 25% from lower contamination areas, 34% from noncontaminated areas). Mean scores of the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices Test were highest in children in all exposure groups whose parents had a high level of education. No overall relation was found between the cognitive function scores of the child and his/her putative radiation exposure level. Conners' test T scores did not differ significantly by level of exposure. Mothers of all exposure groups who were pregnant at the time of the accident gave their children significantly higher Conners' test scores than did those who were not pregnant. Scores for hyperactivity and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder were significantly higher among those who were in utero at the time of the accident. These results do not show differences of neurobehavioral or cognitive performance in exposed versus nonexposed children. There is a possible behavioral effect among offspring of pregnant mothers or mothers of very young children in all exposure levels.}, }
@article {pmid15321527, year = {2002}, author = {Yentis, SM}, title = {The Magpie has landed: preeclampsia, magnesium sulphate and rational decisions.}, journal = {International journal of obstetric anesthesia}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {238-241}, doi = {10.1054/ijoa.2002.0995}, pmid = {15321527}, issn = {0959-289X}, }
@article {pmid15318369, year = {2003}, author = {Mazur, ML}, title = {"You will not quit." Jay Hewitt knows the meaning of "motivation". He's in training for the World Championship Ironman Triathlon, billed as the most grueling one-day race in the world.}, journal = {Diabetes forecast}, volume = {56}, number = {12}, pages = {54-57}, pmid = {15318369}, issn = {0095-8301}, mesh = {Adult ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/*physiopathology/psychology ; Humans ; Male ; *Motivation ; Physical Endurance ; *Sports ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid15315684, year = {2004}, author = {Bhagabati, NK and Brown, JL and Bowen, BS}, title = {Geographic variation in Mexican jays (Aphelocoma ultramarina): local differentiation, polyphyly or hybridization?.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {13}, number = {9}, pages = {2721-2734}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294X.2004.02290.x}, pmid = {15315684}, issn = {0962-1083}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; Beak/growth &amp; development ; Body Constitution ; Cluster Analysis ; DNA Primers ; Gene Frequency ; *Genetic Variation ; Geography ; *Hybridization, Genetic ; Locus Control Region/genetics ; Mexico ; Microsatellite Repeats/genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Ovum/physiology ; *Phylogeny ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Social Behavior ; Songbirds/*genetics ; Species Specificity ; Vocalization, Animal/physiology ; }, abstract = {Studies of genetic variation within highly variable taxa can provide valuable insight into the factors influencing biological diversification. We examined six microsatellite loci, a nuclear intron and the mitochondrial control region to determine if the Mexican jay subspecies Aphelocoma ultramarina couchii and A. u. potosina have hybridized with western scrub-jays (A. californica). We suspected hybridization because these Mexican Jay populations resemble scrub-jays in several traits. We sampled six Mexican jay (N = 105) and four scrub-jay (N = 78) populations. Suspected hybrid Mexican Jay populations did not share any mitochondrial types or intron alleles with scrub-jays. All microsatellite alleles found in the suspected hybrid Mexican jay populations are also found in the control Mexican jay populations. Genetic distance-based trees from microsatellites supported reciprocal monophyly of Mexican jays and scrub-jays with bootstrap support > 80%. We randomized genotypes among populations to test scenarios consistent with hybridization. In some areas where Mexican jays and scrub-jays occur in sympatry or geographical proximity, randomization tests yield results expected under hybridization (100% support for seven of nine scenarios). However, these populations were not the primary candidates for hybridization based on phenotype. Even if low-level hybridization did occur, hybridization does not appear to be the main reason some Mexican jay populations resemble scrub-jays more than others. The scrub-jay-like traits in these populations may be due to drift, adaptation or plasticity. Alternatively, ancient hybridization, followed by selection for scrub-jay like traits in some Mexican jay populations, might have given rise to the observed variation.}, }
@article {pmid15311418, year = {2004}, author = {Basić, J and Katić, S and Vranicć, A and Zarevski, P and Babić, T and Mahović-Lakusić, D}, title = {Cognition in Parkinson's disease.}, journal = {Croatian medical journal}, volume = {45}, number = {4}, pages = {451-456}, pmid = {15311418}, issn = {0353-9504}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Case-Control Studies ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/physiology ; Male ; Memory/physiology ; Middle Aged ; Parkinson Disease/*physiopathology/*psychology ; }, abstract = {AIM: Studies of accentuated drop in cognitive functioning of Parkinson's disease patients mostly use global intelligence measures that have a masking effect on differential drop in specific cognitive abilities. The goal of this study was to investigate the possible differential drop in different types of cognitive tasks. Applied tests tapped fluid and crystallized intelligence, memory, and metacognition.<br><br>METHOD: A sample of 116 participants participated in the study. Half of the participants were diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (average duration of disease 6.5 years) and control group participants equaled them in age, sex, and education level. All participants were tested using Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (CPM), Crichton Vocabulary Scale (CVS), memory subtests from Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS DS-F, WAIS DS-B), and Mini-mental Status Examination (MMSE). Participants, and in the case of clinical group their caregivers as well, were asked questions concerning their metamemory and metacognition.<br><br>RESULTS: Parkinson's disease patients scored lower than control group on all instruments used but the difference was significant only on CPM (F[1,114]=19.14, p=0.001) and MMSE (F[1,110]=4.04, p=0.047).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Patients with Parkisons' disease have greater cognitive damage in fluid intelligence than in crystallized intelligence. They seem to have relatively accurate metamemory and metacognition.}, }
@article {pmid15310336, year = {2004}, author = {Gokulshankar, S and Ranganathan, S and Ranjith, MS and Ranjithsingh, AJ}, title = {Prevalence, serotypes and mating patterns of Cryptococcus neoformans in the pellets of different avifauna in Madras, India.}, journal = {Mycoses}, volume = {47}, number = {7}, pages = {310-314}, doi = {10.1111/j.1439-0507.2004.00995.x}, pmid = {15310336}, issn = {0933-7407}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/microbiology ; Birds/classification/microbiology ; Columbidae/microbiology ; Cryptococcosis/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; Cryptococcus neoformans/*classification/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Feces/*microbiology ; India/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; Serotyping ; Songbirds/microbiology ; }, abstract = {A total of 887 pellets of different avifauna were screened for the presence of Cryptococcus neoformans. One hundred and six of 887 samples (12%) yielded Cr. neoformans in culture. The report on the isolation of Cr. neoformans from the pellets of the crow appears to be new and of greater significance because of the ubiquitous prevalence of this bird in India. The prevalence of both MAT a and MAT alpha mating types were recorded. The serotype D was predominant over serotype A. The findings of the present study reveal the growing diverse ecological niche of Cr. neoformans in a the pellets of various avifauna in India.}, }
@article {pmid15310117, year = {2004}, author = {Davidson, D}, title = {Raven Lang. A founding mother of modern North American midwifery.}, journal = {Midwifery today with international midwife}, volume = {}, number = {70}, pages = {20-21}, pmid = {15310117}, issn = {1551-8892}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Licensure, Nursing/*history/standards ; Midwifery/*history/standards ; Natural Childbirth/*history/standards ; Nurse Midwives/history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid15306809, year = {2004}, author = {Paz-Y-Miño C, G and Bond, AB and Kamil, AC and Balda, RP}, title = {Pinyon jays use transitive inference to predict social dominance.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {430}, number = {7001}, pages = {778-781}, doi = {10.1038/nature02723}, pmid = {15306809}, issn = {1476-4687}, mesh = {Animals ; Cognition/*physiology ; Group Structure ; Male ; *Social Dominance ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Living in large, stable social groups is often considered to favour the evolution of enhanced cognitive abilities, such as recognizing group members, tracking their social status and inferring relationships among them. An individual's place in the social order can be learned through direct interactions with others, but conflicts can be time-consuming and even injurious. Because the number of possible pairwise interactions increases rapidly with group size, members of large social groups will benefit if they can make judgments about relationships on the basis of indirect evidence. Transitive reasoning should therefore be particularly important for social individuals, allowing assessment of relationships from observations of interactions among others. Although a variety of studies have suggested that transitive inference may be used in social settings, the phenomenon has not been demonstrated under controlled conditions in animals. Here we show that highly social pinyon jays (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) draw sophisticated inferences about their own dominance status relative to that of strangers that they have observed interacting with known individuals. These results directly demonstrate that animals use transitive inference in social settings and imply that such cognitive capabilities are widespread among social species.}, }
@article {pmid15306330, year = {2004}, author = {Bugnyar, T and Stöwe, M and Heinrich, B}, title = {Ravens, Corvus corax, follow gaze direction of humans around obstacles.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {271}, number = {1546}, pages = {1331-1336}, pmid = {15306330}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Attention/*physiology ; *Eye Movements ; Orientation/*physiology ; Songbirds/*physiology ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; Videotape Recording ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The ability to follow gaze (i.e. head and eye direction) has recently been shown for social mammals, particularly primates. In most studies, individuals could use gaze direction as a behavioural cue without understanding that the view of others may be different from their own. Here, we show that hand-raised ravens not only visually co-orient with the look-ups of a human experimenter but also reposition themselves to follow the experimenter's gaze around a visual barrier. Birds were capable of visual co-orientation already as fledglings but consistently tracked gaze direction behind obstacles not before six months of age. These results raise the possibility that sub-adult and adult ravens can project a line of sight for the other person into the distance. To what extent ravens may attribute mental significance to the visual behaviour of others is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid15305746, year = {2004}, author = {Wünschmann, A and Shivers, J and Carroll, L and Bender, J}, title = {Pathological and immunohistochemical findings in American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) naturally infected with West Nile virus.}, journal = {Journal of veterinary diagnostic investigation : official publication of the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians, Inc}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {329-333}, doi = {10.1177/104063870401600413}, pmid = {15305746}, issn = {1040-6387}, mesh = {Animals ; Antigens, Viral/analysis ; DNA, Viral/analysis ; Heart/virology ; Immunohistochemistry ; Kidney/pathology/virology ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Songbirds/*virology ; West Nile Fever/immunology/*pathology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {Twenty-one American crows were identified as being West Nile virus (WNV) infected by WNV-specific reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) performed on fresh brain tissue (cerebrum and cerebellum of 16 crows) or by WNV-specific immunohistochemistry of various organs (21 crows). Consistent gross lesions attributable to WNV infection were not detected. Common histological lesions included necrosis of spleen and bone marrow. West Nile virus antigen was consistently detected in heart and kidney (100%). In addition, bone marrow (92%), duodenum (89%), proventriculus (87%), liver (86%), lung (85%), spleen (80%), pancreas (61%), and brain (45%) contained WNV antigen-positive cells. Infected cells included cardiomyocytes; neurons; endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells; hematopoietic cells of bone marrow; and macrophages of spleen, liver (Kupffer cells), and lungs. Epithelial cells of renal tubules, duodenum, pancreas, and proventriculus were also infected. The diagnostic histopathologist should consider WNV infection in crows in the absence of any inflammatory lesions. Immunohistochemistry of heart and kidney is as reliable in detecting WNV infection in American crows as RT-PCR of fresh brain tissue.}, }
@article {pmid15293761, year = {2004}, author = {Yoritaka, A and Sakai, M and Ohta, K and Kishida, S}, title = {[A case of Crow-Fukase syndrome showing improvement following excision and irradiation of bone lesions].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {44}, number = {6}, pages = {369-371}, pmid = {15293761}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Bone Neoplasms/*complications/radiotherapy/surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications ; Plasmacytoma/*complications/radiotherapy/surgery ; Ribs/*radiation effects/*surgery ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors/blood ; }, abstract = {A 57-year-old woman suffering from pleural and pericardial effusion, pulmonary hypertention, lymphadenopathy, hepatosplenomegaly, edema, hypertrichosis, small hemangioma and polyneuropathy was diagnosed as Crow-Fukase syndrome. Osteoctomy of the left second rib and irradiation of this rib and the left iliac bone were performed. Serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) level decreased to less than one-half the level before the operation (from 5,180 to 2,150 pg/ml). Immediately after the operation, pleural and pericardial effusions due to hyperpenetration improved, and polyneuropathy and hypertrichosis due to hypervasularity also gradually improved. The resected lesion was histopathologically found to be of a plasmacytoma of the IgG lambda type. Since the level of VEGF in the tissue specimen was much lower (116 pg/ml) than that in the serum, VEGF could not have been produced by the plasmacytoma.}, }
@article {pmid15291236, year = {2004}, author = {Katsarou, Z and Bostantjopoulou, S and Kimiskidis, V and Rossopoulos, E and Kazis, A}, title = {Auditory event-related potentials in Parkinson's disease in relation to cognitive ability.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {98}, number = {3 Pt 2}, pages = {1441-1448}, doi = {10.2466/pms.98.3c.1441-1448}, pmid = {15291236}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/*etiology ; Event-Related Potentials, P300/physiology ; Evoked Potentials, Auditory/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/*complications/*physiopathology ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {Auditory event-related potentials were evaluated in 45 nondemented patients with mild to moderate Parkinson's disease and 40 matched normal controls. All patients were neuropsychologically assessed by means of the Raven Colored Progressive Matrices, four subtests of the Wechsler Memory Scale (Digit Span Forward, Logical Memory, Visual Memory, Associate Learning), and the Wisconsin Card-sorting Test. The P300 component of the auditory event-related potentials was significantly prolonged in the patients with Parkinson's disease. Correlations between P300 latency and neuropsychological measures showed significant associations with lower performance on the Raven Colored Progressive Matrices and the Wisconsin Card-sorting Test. Our results indicate that for patients with mild to moderate Parkinson's disease subtle changes in cognitive abilities may be reflected as P300 prolongation.}, }
@article {pmid15291199, year = {2004}, author = {Shaunessy, E and Karnes, FA and Cobb, Y}, title = {Assessing potentially gifted students from lower socioeconomic status with nonverbal measures of intelligence.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {98}, number = {3 Pt 2}, pages = {1129-1138}, doi = {10.2466/pms.98.3c.1129-1138}, pmid = {15291199}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Child ; *Child, Gifted ; Culture ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Nonverbal Communication ; Socioeconomic Factors ; *Students ; }, abstract = {The screening and identification of gifted students has historically been conducted using verbal measures of intelligence. However, the underrepresentation in gifted programs of culturally diverse children, who may have limited English proficiency or cultural values different from those measured in traditional intelligence tests, has prompted researchers to consider other measures. Nonverbal measures of intelligence have been utilized to increase the number of gifted children from diverse backgrounds. Researchers in the current study sought to increase the number of culturally diverse gifted students at a rural public school enrolling predominantly African-American students from low socioeconomic homes. 169 students in Grades 2 through 6 were assessed using three nonverbal measures of intelligence: the Culture-Fair Intelligence Test, the Naglieri Nonverbal Abilities Test, and the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices. The scores on these nonverbal measures indicated that the Culture-Fair Intelligence Test and the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices identified more students than the Naglieri Nonverbal Abilities Test. A discussion of the results and implications for research are presented.}, }
@article {pmid15273844, year = {2004}, author = {Fonseca, LC and Tedrus, GM and Tonelotto, JM and Antunes Td, Tde A and Chiodi, MG}, title = {[School performance in children with benign childhood epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes].}, journal = {Arquivos de neuro-psiquiatria}, volume = {62}, number = {2B}, pages = {459-462}, doi = {10.1590/s0004-282x2004000300015}, pmid = {15273844}, issn = {0004-282X}, mesh = {Anticonvulsants/therapeutic use ; Brain/*physiopathology ; Child ; Electroencephalography ; Epilepsy, Rolandic/drug therapy/*physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Reading ; *Underachievement ; }, abstract = {Neuropsychological implications of benign childhood epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes-rolandic spikes (BECTS) have not been adequately investigated. The aim of this study was to compare the results in a school performance test of patients with BECTS and normal age-matched controls. A total of 20 children with BECTS and 20 normal controls were submitted to anamnesis, clinical evaluation, Raven test, school performance test (SPT), digital electroencephalogram and quantitative electroencephalogram analysis. Comparing with normal controls, children with BECTS showed significantly lower SPT results, especially in reading test. There was an association between the higher number of rolandic spikes and inferior performance in SPT reading test. These findings suggest that discharges may be a factor in the genesis of lower performance in reading test in children with BECTS.}, }
@article {pmid15273843, year = {2004}, author = {Fonseca, LC and Tedrus, GM and Chiodi, MG and Cerqueira, JN and Duran, MH}, title = {[Quantitative electroencephalography in children with benign childhood epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes: analysis of band power].}, journal = {Arquivos de neuro-psiquiatria}, volume = {62}, number = {2B}, pages = {455-458}, doi = {10.1590/s0004-282x2004000300014}, pmid = {15273843}, issn = {0004-282X}, mesh = {Brain/*physiopathology ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Electroencephalography/*methods ; Epilepsy, Rolandic/*physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; }, abstract = {Quantitative EEG aspects are studied in children with benign childhood epilepsy with centrotempral spikes (BCET). A total of 27 children, from 7 to 11 years neurologically and intellectually normal was studied and compared to a control group of normal children. They were submitted to anamnesis, neurological examination, Raven test, digital electroencephalogram and quantitative eletroencephalogram analysis. There was a higher delta, theta, alpha and beta absolute power in most of the electrodes and of alpha and beta for some electrodes in the BCET group. Relative theta power was also higher for the BECT group in most of the electrodes. These findings suggest that in BECT there are diffuse differences form age-matched normal children including a difference in relative spectrum of electrical cerebral activity and that this may be related to a functional immaturity.}, }
@article {pmid15273648, year = {2004}, author = {Gheorge, MD and Baloescu, A and Grigorescu, G}, title = {Premorbid cognitive and behavioral functioning in military recruits experiencing the first episode of psychosis.}, journal = {CNS spectrums}, volume = {9}, number = {8}, pages = {604-606}, doi = {10.1017/s1092852900002777}, pmid = {15273648}, issn = {1092-8529}, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological ; Adult ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/psychology ; Cohort Studies ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Early Diagnosis ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Disorders/*diagnosis/psychology ; Military Personnel/*psychology ; Romania ; Schizophrenia/*diagnosis ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Schizotypal Personality Disorder/*diagnosis/psychology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To characterize the premorbid cognitive and behavioral abilities in apparently healthy adolescents who at a later time will be diagnosed with schizophreniform disorder or schizophrenia.<br><br>BACKGROUND: Clarifying the pathological relationship between subtle intellectual and behavioral abnormalities and disease could provide markers for the early prediction of future psychosis.<br><br>METHOD: Premorbid data on young male patients admitted to the Department of Psychiatry of the Central Military Hospital in Bucharest, Romania, between 1996 and 2002 and diagnosed with a first episode of psychosis or schizophreniform disorder were collected. The premorbid data consisted in the test scores of intellectual functioning and personality traits were collected by the Romanian Draft Board in order to assesses their aptitude to serve in the military. Premorbid cognitive and behavioral scores of male patients (cases=157) were compared with the scores of healthy male individuals (non-cases=169) matched for age, education, and geographic area of residence. The tests were administered when subjects were 18 years of age (initial screening) and the entire assessment was completed and concluded when subjects reached 20 years of age (actual conscription).<br><br>RESULTS: As a group, apparently healthy males later admitted for a first episode of psychosis or schizophreniform disorder, obtained lower (worse) scores on the Raven Progressive Matrices test and on relevant personality traits in comparison to controls.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The results add to the accumulating body of evidence suggesting that aspects of schizophrenia manifest years before the illness is formally diagnosed. Despite these results, more studies are needed to improve the diagnosing specificity and predictive value of the premorbid cognitive and behavioral manifestations, before they can be used as markers in models of primary or secondary prevention.}, }
@article {pmid15272566, year = {2004}, author = {Kucher, AN and Maksimova, NR and Nogovitsina, AN and Sukhomiasova, AL}, title = {[Genetic demographic description of the Ust-Aldan rural population of Sakha Republic (Yakutia): ethnic, sex, and age compositions, vital statistics, and surname structure].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {40}, number = {5}, pages = {677-684}, pmid = {15272566}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Age Distribution ; *Demography ; Family Characteristics ; Female ; Genetics, Population/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Humans ; Male ; Names ; Rural Population/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Sex Distribution ; Siberia/ethnology ; Vital Statistics ; }, abstract = {Information on the sex, age, and ethnic compositions; reproductive parameters; intensity of natural selection (Crow's indices); and surname diversity of three rural populations (the Byadi, Dyupsya, and Cheriktey villages) of the Ust-Aldan ulus (district) of Sakha Republic (Yakutia) has been analyzed. The rural Yakut population of the Ust-Aldan ulus is demographically young (the mean age 25-31 years) and characterized by low outbreeding, unfavorable sex ratio in both prereproductive and reproductive ages, and high fertility (3.58-5.45 children surviving until the reproductive age per woman that has completed the reproductive period), although the actual reproductively active period is shorter than half its physiological duration. In the structure of total selection, the differential-fertility component is considerably greater than the differential-mortality component (Itot = 0.625, Im = 0.093, and If = 0.487). In the villages studied, some surnames are accumulated (45-65% of the population have five most frequent surnames), which determines the low surname diversity (alpha = 11.62-25.19) and high random isonymy (Ir = 0.0391-0.0823).}, }
@article {pmid15262230, year = {2004}, author = {Evans, RP and Fletcher, GL}, title = {Isolation and purification of antifreeze proteins from skin tissues of snailfish, cunner and sea raven.}, journal = {Biochimica et biophysica acta}, volume = {1700}, number = {2}, pages = {209-217}, doi = {10.1016/j.bbapap.2004.05.006}, pmid = {15262230}, issn = {0006-3002}, mesh = {Animals ; Antifreeze Proteins/blood/classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; Base Sequence ; Epithelium/chemistry ; *Fishes ; Liver/chemistry ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Skin/*chemistry ; Tissue Distribution ; }, abstract = {Antifreeze proteins/polypeptides (AFPs), which are found in diverse species of marine fish, are grouped into four distinct classes (types I-IV). The discovery of skin-specific type I AFPs established that this class contains distinct isoforms, liver-type and skin-type, which are encoded by separate gene families. In this study, type I AFPs were isolated and partially characterized from skin tissues of Atlantic snailfish (Liparis atlanticus) and cunner (Tautogolabrus adspersus). Interestingly, evidence from this study indicates that snailfish type I AFPs synthesized in skin tissues are identical to those circulating in their blood plasma. Furthermore, type II AFPs that are identical to those expressed in liver for export into blood were purified from sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus) skin tissue extracts. It is clear that epithelial tissues are an important source for antifreeze expression to enhance the complement of AFPs that protect fish from freezing in extreme cold environments. In addition, the evidence generated in this study demonstrates that expression of AFPs in fish skin is a widespread phenomenon that is not limited to type I proteins.}, }
@article {pmid15259606, year = {2003}, author = {Ramana, SP and Atluri, JB and Reddi, CS}, title = {Autecology of the tailed jay butterfly Graphium agamemnon (Lepidoptera : Rhopalocera : Papilionidae).}, journal = {Journal of environmental biology}, volume = {24}, number = {3}, pages = {295-303}, pmid = {15259606}, issn = {0254-8704}, mesh = {Animals ; *Butterflies/growth &amp; development/physiology ; Diet ; *Feeding Behavior ; Flowers ; India ; Larva/growth &amp; development ; Ovum/growth &amp; development ; Pollen ; Population Dynamics ; *Reproduction ; }, abstract = {The Tailed Jay Graphium agamemnon is one of the attractive papilionid butterflies that enliven the environment of Visakhapatnam. It occurs throughout the year. It lays eggs singly on young leaves of the mast tree Polyalthia longifolia var. pendula (Annonaceae). The eggs take 3-4 days to hatch. The larvae go through 5 instars over a period of 15-16 days. The pupal period is 13-14 days. The total period from egg to adult emergence spans over 33-36 days. Based on this short life cycle, and larval and pupal development success studied every month, this butterfly can be multivoltine with a minimum of 7-8 broods in a year. Both CI and GR decreased with the age of larva, their average figures being 3.78 and 0.43 respectively. AD values are high (average 92%) and decreased through successive instars. Both ECD and ECI followed a similar pattern with an increase from instar I up to II, then a decrease up to IV and again an increase in instar V and the highest value is with fifth instar. Adults frequently visited flowers (12-35 flowers in a min) spending 1.0 to 3.2 seconds on a flower. The nectar concentration ranged between 16 and 58%. Peak foraging activity mostly fell between 0900-1000 h. The proboscis received pollen in most of the floral species visited, thus satisfying one of the characteristics of butterfly pollination. Being a fast and strong flier it is treated as "high energy" pollinator promoting cross-pollination.}, }
@article {pmid15258208, year = {2004}, author = {Cervilla, J and Prince, M and Joels, S and Lovestone, S and Mann, A}, title = {Premorbid cognitive testing predicts the onset of dementia and Alzheimer's disease better than and independently of APOE genotype.}, journal = {Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry}, volume = {75}, number = {8}, pages = {1100-1106}, pmid = {15258208}, issn = {0022-3050}, mesh = {Aged ; Alzheimer Disease/*diagnosis ; Apolipoproteins E/*genetics ; Cohort Studies ; Dementia/*diagnosis ; Female ; Genotype ; Humans ; Male ; *Mental Status Schedule ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Prospective Studies ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine whether a cognitive test package can predict the onset of dementia up to 11 years later, and the extent to which this prediction is independent of that provided by APOE genotype.<br><br>METHODS: Prospective cohort study based on 54 general practices in the UK; 657 survivors of the 1088 participants in the MRC treatment trial of hypertension in older adults were followed for up to 11 years; 370 participants (57% of survivors) were traced, screened for dementia, and genotyped for APOE in 1994. Baseline assessments included trail making test A, paired associated learning test, Raven's progressive matrices, and national adult reading test. At follow up, both mini-mental state examination and CAMCOG were used. Outcome measures were DSM-IIIR dementia and NINCDS-ADRDA possible and probable Alzheimer's disease.<br><br>RESULTS: All the cognitive tests completed in 1983 predicted onset of dementia and Alzheimer's disease up to 11 years later, as did APOE genotype. Cognitive test performance was not associated with APOE genotype. Addition of cognitive tests increased the area under the ROC curve for the prediction of Alzheimer's disease provided by age, family history, and APOE genotype (0.81 v 0.69, p = 0.048); addition of APOE genotype did not increase the area under the ROC curve for the prediction provided by age, family history, and cognitive tests (0.81 v 0.77, p = 0.28).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Simple tests of cognitive ability provide useful predictive information up to a decade before the onset of dementia. The predictive information provided is independent of, but not enhanced by, the addition of APOE genotype.}, }
@article {pmid15252254, year = {2004}, author = {Batniji, RK and Falk, AN}, title = {Update on botulinum toxin use in facial plastic and head and neck surgery.}, journal = {Current opinion in otolaryngology &amp; head and neck surgery}, volume = {12}, number = {4}, pages = {317-322}, doi = {10.1097/01.moo.0000131443.50445.53}, pmid = {15252254}, issn = {1068-9508}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins/classification/*therapeutic use/toxicity ; Face/surgery ; Head/*surgery ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Neck/*surgery ; Otorhinolaryngologic Surgical Procedures/methods ; Plastic Surgery Procedures/*methods ; Surgery, Plastic/methods ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to discuss current trends in the medicinal use of botulinum toxin in head and neck and facial plastic surgery. The basic science of botulinum toxin is presented along with a comparison of the subtypes currently available on the market. Site-specific applications of botulinum toxin in the head and neck region are presented.<br><br>RECENT FINDINGS: The use of botulinum toxin continues to expand, both in volume and in number of applications. The main application of botulinum toxin in facial plastic surgery is in the effacement of dynamic or hyperkinetic facial lines. The granting of US Food and Drug Administration approval for the use of Botulinum Toxin type A in the treatment of glabella lines marks a major milestone for the more widespread usage of this product in cosmetic settings. Additional cosmetic applications include crow's feet, marionette lines, and platysma banding. Noncosmetic applications in the head and neck include dystonias (including torticollis), facial and generalized muscle spasms, migraine headaches, hyperhidrosis, spasmodic dysphonia, sialorrhea, gustatory sweating, and involuntary movement disorders.<br><br>SUMMARY: The use of botulinum toxin in the treatment of hyperkinetic conditions and disorders of excessive salivation is well established and enjoys an excellent safety profile. The cosmetic use of botulinum toxin continues to expand. The chronic use of botulinum toxin specifically for cosmetic purposes is worthy of additional study.}, }
@article {pmid15244960, year = {2004}, author = {Ye, YH and Ding, J and Jeong, DY and Khoo, IC and Zhang, QM}, title = {Finite-size effect on one-dimensional coupled-resonator optical waveguides.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {69}, number = {5 Pt 2}, pages = {056604}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.69.056604}, pmid = {15244960}, issn = {1539-3755}, abstract = {We study the finite-size effect on the dispersion relation, group velocity, and transmission curves of one-dimensional finite-size coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) structures. Both the dispersion relation and the group velocity curves of a finite-size CROW oscillate along those of the corresponding infinite-extended ones. The oscillations can be suppressed by matching the equivalent admittance of the surrounding medium to that of the unit cell. Thelen's method is used to find the parameters of the matching layer to reduce oscillations on the group velocity and transmission spectra, and to analyze the structure parameters that determine the bandwidth and the group velocity.}, }
@article {pmid15241766, year = {2004}, author = {May, LA and Butt, C and Kolbinson, K and Minor, L and Tulloch, K}, title = {Wheelchair back-support options: functional outcomes for persons with recent spinal cord injury.}, journal = {Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation}, volume = {85}, number = {7}, pages = {1146-1150}, doi = {10.1016/j.apmr.2003.08.105}, pmid = {15241766}, issn = {0003-9993}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Spinal Cord Injuries/*rehabilitation ; Task Performance and Analysis ; *Wheelchairs ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the functional outcomes for people with a recent spinal cord injury (SCI) when using 3 different back-support options.<br><br>DESIGN: Repeated-measures within-subject comparison.<br><br>SETTING: Rehabilitation center.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: Twenty-seven manual wheelchair users with recent SCI.<br><br>INTERVENTIONS: Three types of wheelchair back supports--a standard sling upholstery, a Jay J2 back, and a Pindot PaxBac--were used by each participant to evaluate performance of 4 functional tasks.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Functional tasks included timed forward wheeling, ramp ascent, distance for forward vertical reach, and 1-stroke push. Product satisfaction was also rated.<br><br>RESULTS: For most participants, best performance for each task varied with back support used. Significant differences in functional performance were found for the reaching activity (P=.01), with greater reach when the J2 was used. Satisfaction ratings also differed significantly (P=.017), with participants indicating greater satisfaction with the J2. Participants' choice of back support varied and did not consistently correspond with best performance.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Except for reaching, performance of functional activities did not differ depending on back support used. Objective evaluation of reaching ability may assist in product decision making. Inclusion of a consistent battery of functional tasks could provide a standardized reference point for clients' subjective evaluations.}, }
@article {pmid15236572, year = {2004}, author = {Sharp, KH and Moody, PC and Brown, KA and Raven, EL}, title = {Crystal structure of the ascorbate peroxidase-salicylhydroxamic acid complex.}, journal = {Biochemistry}, volume = {43}, number = {27}, pages = {8644-8651}, doi = {10.1021/bi049343q}, pmid = {15236572}, issn = {0006-2960}, mesh = {Arginine/chemistry/metabolism ; Ascorbate Peroxidases ; Binding Sites ; Crystallography, X-Ray ; Heme/chemistry/metabolism ; Iron/chemistry ; Models, Molecular ; Molecular Structure ; Peroxidases/*chemistry/*metabolism ; Protein Structure, Tertiary ; Protons ; Protoporphyrins/chemistry ; Salicylamides/*chemistry/*metabolism ; Glycine max/enzymology ; Spectrophotometry ; }, abstract = {Ascorbate peroxidase is a bifunctional peroxidase that catalyzes the H(2)O(2)-dependent oxidation of both ascorbate and various aromatic substrates. The ascorbate binding site was recently identified as being close to the gamma-heme edge [Sharp, K. H., Mewies, M., Moody, P. C. E., and Raven, E. L. (2003)Nat. Struct. Biol. 10, 303-307]. In this work, the X-ray crystal structure of recombinant soybean cytosolic ascorbate peroxidase (rsAPX) in complex with salicylhydroxamic acid (SHA) has been determined to 1.46 A. The SHA molecule is bound close to the delta-heme edge in a cavity that connects the distal side of the heme to the surface of the protein. There are hydrogen bonds between the phenolic hydroxide of the SHA and the main chain carbonyl of Pro132, between the carbonyl oxygen of SHA and the side chain guanadinium group of Arg38, and between the hydroxamic acid group and the indole nitrogen of Trp41. The structure provides the first information about the location of the aromatic binding site in ascorbate peroxidase and, together with our previous data [Sharp, K. H., et al. (2003) Nat. Struct. Biol. 10, 303-307], completes the structural description of the binding properties of ascorbate peroxidase. The mechanistic implications of the results are discussed in terms of our current understanding of how APX catalyzes oxidation of different types of substrates bound at different locations.}, }
@article {pmid15232136, year = {2004}, author = {Weingartl, HM and Neufeld, JL and Copps, J and Marszal, P}, title = {Experimental West Nile virus infection in blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) and crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos).}, journal = {Veterinary pathology}, volume = {41}, number = {4}, pages = {362-370}, doi = {10.1354/vp.41-4-362}, pmid = {15232136}, issn = {0300-9858}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Antigens, Viral/immunology ; Bird Diseases/pathology/*virology ; Female ; Immunohistochemistry/veterinary ; Male ; Rabbits ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Songbirds/*virology ; Spleen/virology ; Trachea/virology ; Viral Load ; Virus Cultivation ; West Nile Fever/pathology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Ten crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and three blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata), species indigenous to North America, were intravenously inoculated with 10(3) PFU of West Nile virus (WNV) strain NY99 for production of positive tissues for Canadian surveillance. Both species developed clinical signs 4 days postinoculation (dpi). Virus was detected in blood, cloacal and tracheal swabs, and in a number of organs by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and virus isolation (titers reaching over 10(7) PFU/0.1 g). Virus appeared as early as 1 dpi in blood (10(2)-10(3) PFU/ml) and spleen (10(3)-10(4) PFU/0.1 g of tissue), whereas kidney, liver, intestine, gonads, heart, skeletal muscle, and lung tested positive for WNV in a later stage of the infection. Immunostaining (IHC) using heterologous rabbit anti-WNV polyclonal antiserum detected viral antigen in a wide range of organs, starting at 2 dpi. Detection of WNV antigen in the brain of blue jays and crows by IHC was laborious as only few cells, not present in all sections, would stain positive. Mononuclear cells appeared to be an important target for virus replication, contributing to virus spread throughout tissues during the infection. This conclusion was based on the positive IHC staining of these cells in organs before virus antigen detection in parenchymal cells and supported by virus isolation and RT-PCR-positive results in white blood cells. The inability of blue jays and crows to perch and fly may reflect weakness due to generalized infection and marked skeletal muscle involvement, although involvement of the central nervous system cannot be excluded.}, }
@article {pmid15230732, year = {2004}, author = {Collard, JM and Romagnoli, R and Goncette, L and Gutschow, C}, title = {Whole stomach with antro-pyloric nerve preservation as an esophageal substitute: an original technique.}, journal = {Diseases of the esophagus : official journal of the International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {164-167}, doi = {10.1111/j.1442-2050.2004.00395.x}, pmid = {15230732}, issn = {1120-8694}, mesh = {Esophageal Diseases/surgery ; Esophagectomy ; Esophagus/*surgery ; Gastrointestinal Motility ; Humans ; Stomach/*innervation/surgery ; *Vagotomy/methods ; Vagus Nerve ; }, abstract = {The paper describes an original technique of gastric tailoring in which the two-thirds of the lesser curvature proximal to the crow's foot are denuded flush with the gastric wall, leaving both nerves of Latarjet and the hepatic branches of the left vagus nerve intact. Maintenance of the vagal supply to the antro-pyloric segment in two patients resulted in the presence of peristaltic contractions sweeping over the antrum on simple observation of the antral wall at the end of the procedure and on both upper G-I series and intragastric manometry tracings 6 weeks postoperatively. Gastric exposure to bile on 24-h gastric bile monitoring was normal 6 weeks after the operation. Neither patient had any gastrointestinal symptoms with the exception of early sensations of postprandial fullness when overeating.}, }
@article {pmid15225835, year = {2004}, author = {Nakagawa, K and Kawaura, A and Kato, S and Takeda, E and Okano, T}, title = {Metastatic growth of lung cancer cells is extremely reduced in Vitamin D receptor knockout mice.}, journal = {The Journal of steroid biochemistry and molecular biology}, volume = {89-90}, number = {1-5}, pages = {545-547}, doi = {10.1016/j.jsbmb.2004.03.066}, pmid = {15225835}, issn = {0960-0760}, mesh = {Actins/genetics ; Animals ; Green Fluorescent Proteins ; Luminescent Proteins/genetics ; Lung Neoplasms/genetics/*pathology ; Mice ; Mice, Knockout ; *Neoplasm Metastasis ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Receptors, Calcitriol/genetics/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Lung metastatic neoplasms are the major cause of cancer mortality. Despite the progress of diagnostic techniques and improvements in surgical procedures, the prognosis of patients with lung cancer is generally poor, even in the early stages of cancer [Cancer: Principles and Practice of Oncology, vol. 1, fifth ed., Lippincott-Raven, New York, 1997, p. 849]. Epidemiological studies indicate a positive correlation with the prevalence of cancers and low serum levels of Vitamin D metabolites [Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 54 (1991) 193s; Cancer Epidemiol. Biomark. Prev. 9 (2000) 1059]. 1alpha,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D(3) [1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3)] is a potent inhibitor of cancer cell proliferation in vitro [Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 78 (1981) 4990; Endocrinol. 139 (1998) 1046; Mol. Endocr. 15 (2001) 1127]. There is, however, no report demonstrating that 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) is operative in vivo to inhibit metastatic growth of cancer cells. To verify this possibility, we generated a stable transfectant of the Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cell expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) and examined its metastatic activity in wild-type mice and Vitamin D receptor (VDR) knockout mice that exhibit no Vitamin D-dependent calcemic activity and extremely high serum levels of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) due to the overexpression of the 1alpha-hydroxylase gene [Nat. Genet. 16 (1997) 391; Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 94 (1997) 9831]. Here, we show that 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) inhibits metastatic growth of lung cancer cells in the defined animal model and may work as an intrinsic factor for prevention of metastasis in intact animals. These findings establish a critical role for 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) in lung metastatic neoplasms and provide a new model for metastasis of malignant cells.}, }
@article {pmid15223741, year = {2004}, author = {Maeshima, S and Osawa, A and Maeshima, E and Shimamoto, Y and Sekiguchi, E and Kakishita, K and Ozaki, F and Moriwaki, H}, title = {Usefulness of a cube-copying test in outpatients with dementia.}, journal = {Brain injury}, volume = {18}, number = {9}, pages = {889-898}, doi = {10.1080/02699050410001671847}, pmid = {15223741}, issn = {0269-9052}, mesh = {Aged ; Amnesia/etiology/*psychology ; *Cognition ; Dementia/complications/*psychology ; Humans ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Prospective Studies ; Psychological Tests ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To clarify whether a quantitatively scored cube-copying test could rapidly assess dementia patients, predicting thier performance in cognitive tests.<br><br>METHODS: Subjects were 171 outpatients with amnesia who were including 92 with Alzheimer's disease (AD); 59 vascular dementia (VD); 17 frontotemporal dementia (FTD); and three lewy body disease (DLB) and 32 normal healthy subjects. Subjects asked to copy a perspective drawing of a cube. Points of connection and plane-orientation errors were scored using Maeshima's method. The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), an auditory verbal learning test (AVLT), a word fluency test and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) were administered. Age, clinical disease severity, symptom duration, specific diagnosis and neuropsychological scores were evaluated for relationships with constructional ability.<br><br>RESULTS: The cube-copying test showed errors in most dementia patients and 11 of 32 normal subjects. Only three patients each with AD and VD copied correctly, but 11 patients with 17 FTD drew the cube correctly. Numbers of connections completed and plane-orientation errors correlated significantly with MMSE, AVLT, word fluency and RCPM scores.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The cube-copying test is useful for routine clinical dementia screening, however the test examines only one aspect of cognitive function. While not an alternative to conventional neuropsychological examinations, quantitatively scored cube copying can provide a rough estimate of cognitive dysfunction in dementia patients.}, }
@article {pmid15222574, year = {2004}, author = {Klein, AW}, title = {Botox for the eyes and eyebrows.}, journal = {Dermatologic clinics}, volume = {22}, number = {2}, pages = {145-9, vi}, doi = {10.1016/j.det.2004.02.001}, pmid = {15222574}, issn = {0733-8635}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Esthetics ; *Eye ; *Eyebrows ; Facial Muscles/drug effects ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Neuromuscular Agents/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {The forehead and crow's-feet (periorbital wrinkles) are among areas where Botox has been quite helpful. This cosmetic use is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is considered off-label. The effect, although temporary, is extremely popular with patients, has a very low incidence of side effects, and is a relatively easy technique to acquire.}, }
@article {pmid15217673, year = {2004}, author = {Gunn, DM and Jarrold, C}, title = {Raven's matrices performance in Down syndrome: evidence of unusual errors.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {25}, number = {5}, pages = {443-457}, doi = {10.1016/j.ridd.2003.07.004}, pmid = {15217673}, issn = {0891-4222}, support = {G9423916/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Age Factors ; Child ; Down Syndrome/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Learning Disabilities/*psychology ; Male ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; Task Performance and Analysis ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to investigate the types of errors produced by three participant groups (individuals with Down syndrome, with moderate learning disability, and typically developing children) whilst completing the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices task. An analysis of error categories revealed that individuals with Down syndrome produced a significantly different pattern of errors to the comparison groups. This difference remained, though was less marked, when the groups were matched on overall task performance. Consequently, even when the groups were making the same number of errors, they were not making the same type of errors. An investigation of age-related error patterns revealed that there was a significant change in the types of errors made by typically developing individuals with age. However, no significant age-related change was found in the types of errors made by participants with Down syndrome. The analysis also provided evidence that individuals with Down syndrome were not producing error types appropriate for their chronological age, or for their overall level of task performance. Possible explanations for these differences in terms of problems of integration of perceptual information, reduced visual acuity, and a lax criterion for task completion in Down syndrome are considered.}, }
@article {pmid15207583, year = {2004}, author = {Burger, J and Bowman, R and Woolfenden, GE and Gochfeld, M}, title = {Metal and metalloid concentrations in the eggs of threatened Florida scrub-jays in suburban habitat from south-central Florida.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {328}, number = {1-3}, pages = {185-193}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2004.01.030}, pmid = {15207583}, issn = {0048-9697}, mesh = {Animals ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; *Environment ; Environmental Monitoring/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Florida ; Metals, Heavy/*analysis/pharmacokinetics ; Ovum/*chemistry ; Songbirds/*metabolism ; Spectrophotometry, Atomic ; }, abstract = {Monitoring and assessing changes in contaminants in urban and suburban environments is essential to assessing ecosystem well-being in human-influenced landscapes. We analyzed metal and metalloid levels in the eggs of the threatened Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens), an extremely sedentary and modestly long-lived passerine bird that is federally threatened and endemic only in Florida. Eggs that failed to hatch were collected in a suburban environment to compare with the long-term study of this species at the Archbold Biological Station, located 8 km south in a more rural part of south-central Florida. Florida scrub-jays remain in a permanent territory in scrub oak habitat where they feed mainly on insects and acorns, but in suburban habitats human-provided foods comprise 30% of their diet. From the data previously collected at Archbold, and their low position on the food chain, we expected levels of contaminants to be comparatively low and remain relatively constant over time. Except for the low mercury value, all means were within the range of mean values reported for a wide range of non-passerine species (including those at higher tropic levels), are lower than concentrations associated with abnormalities in birds, and are lower than those previously reported for scrub-jays from Archbold Biological Station. A significant increase in selenium occurred from 1996 to 2001, but did not appear associated with changes in human density.}, }
@article {pmid15207437, year = {2004}, author = {Sinforiani, E and Banchieri, L and Zucchella, C and Pacchetti, C and Sandrini, G}, title = {Cognitive rehabilitation in Parkinson's disease.}, journal = {Archives of gerontology and geriatrics. Supplement}, volume = {}, number = {9}, pages = {387-391}, doi = {10.1016/j.archger.2004.04.049}, pmid = {15207437}, issn = {0924-7947}, mesh = {Aged ; Cognition Disorders/*complications/diagnosis/*rehabilitation ; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/*methods ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/*complications ; Severity of Illness Index ; Therapy, Computer-Assisted/instrumentation ; }, abstract = {A rehabilitation program of 6 weeks, including both motor and cognitive training, was applied to 20 patients affected by Parkinson's disease (PD) in the early stages, presenting with mild cognitive deficits, but no dementia. Cognitive rehabilitation has been performed by utilizing a software elaborated for neuropsychological training (TNP). At the end of the scheduled sessions, the patients showed a significant improvement at verbal fluency, logic memory and Raven's matrices tests, as compared to baseline. These results remained stable over the time. We hypothesize that rehabilitative training exerts its positive effects by reinforcing cognitive strategies, in particular, by enhancing frontal function, which are typically impaired in PD, and suggests that this instrument could be implemented in nonpharmacological treatment of this pathology.}, }
@article {pmid15207433, year = {2004}, author = {Ravaglia, G and Forti, P and Maioli, F and Scali, RC and Saccheitti, L and Talerico, T and Mantovani, V and Bianchin, M}, title = {Homocysteine and cognitive performance in healthy elderly subjects.}, journal = {Archives of gerontology and geriatrics. Supplement}, volume = {}, number = {9}, pages = {349-357}, doi = {10.1016/j.archger.2004.04.045}, pmid = {15207433}, issn = {0924-7947}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Alzheimer Disease/blood/epidemiology ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Dementia, Vascular/blood/epidemiology ; Female ; Folic Acid/blood ; *Health Status ; Humans ; Hyperhomocysteinemia/blood/*epidemiology ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Nutritional Status ; Phonetics ; Psychometrics ; Severity of Illness Index ; Vitamin B 12/blood ; Vitamin B 6/blood ; Vocabulary ; }, abstract = {Hyperhomocysteinemia is a risk factor for dementia but only scanty data exist about its relationship to specific cognitive abilities during normal aging. We recruited 62 healthy and cognitively normal subjects of age 65-91 years from the Conselice Study of brain aging. The following neuropsychological tests were applied (i) The mental deterioration battery(MDB) consisting of 7 parts: the Rey's 15 words immediate and delayed recall, word fluency, sentence construction, Raven's progressive matrices '47, immediate visual memory, freehand copying of drawings and copying drawings with landmarks. (ii) The Prose memory test. (iii) The Corsi block-tapping task. (iv) The mini mental state examination(MMSE) scores. We measured plasma total homocysteine (tHcy), serum folate, vitamin B12 and plasma vitamin B6. Multivariate-adjusted linear regression analysis showed statistically significant negative association of plasma tHcy with scores at MMSE (b= -0.01 2,p < 0.001) and word fluency (b = -0.009, p = 0.021). A non-significant trend towards a negative association was also found for sentence construction (b = -0.006, p = 0.076). One can conclude that in healthy elderly subjects, increased plasma tHcy is correlated to poorer performance at a specific measure of language abilities being compromised in both vascular and Alzheimer's dementia. The study suggests that plasma tHcy could be an early marker of cognitive impairment.}, }
@article {pmid15204497, year = {2004}, author = {Osawa, A and Maeshima, S and Shimamoto, Y and Maeshima, E and Sekiguchi, E and Kakishita, K and Ozaki, F and Moriwaki, H}, title = {Relationship between cognitive function and regional cerebral blood flow in different types of dementia.}, journal = {Disability and rehabilitation}, volume = {26}, number = {12}, pages = {739-745}, doi = {10.1080/09638280410001704331}, pmid = {15204497}, issn = {0963-8288}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Case-Control Studies ; Cerebrovascular Circulation/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/*physiopathology ; Dementia/*physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: We assessed relationships between cognitive impairment and regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in the different types of dementia.<br><br>SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Subjects, who included 27 with Alzheimer's disease (AD), seven with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), six with vascular dementia (VaD), and 12 normal controls, were evaluated using the Mini-mental State (MMS), Kana-hiroi Test, an auditory verbal learning test (AVLT), a word fluency test (WFT) and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM). The rCBF was measured using a three-dimensional stereotaxic ROI template method (3DSRT).<br><br>RESULTS: In all dementia types, left superior frontal hypoperfusion was demonstrated. In AD and VaD significant CBF reduction also was seen in both angular, temporal, occipital, and precentral, both hippocampi, thalami, and pericallosal regions, and the left lenticular nucleus. MMS, Kana-hiroi Test, and AVLT scores correlated with CBF in all regions. WFT scores were correlated highly with CBF in the left side in frontal, temporal, and angular regions and right and left lenticular nuclei, thalami, and pericallosal regions. RCPM scores correlated with CBF in posterior regions.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Close coupling was evident between reduced rCBF and cognitive dysfunction in patients with dementia. Use of neuropsychologic tests and rCBF determinations in combination should enhance diagnostic accuracy.}, }
@article {pmid15204024, year = {2004}, author = {Kilani, M and Micallef, J and Soubrouillard, C and Rey-Lardiller, D and Dematteï, C and Dib, M and Philippot, P and Ceccaldi, M and Pouget, J and Blin, O}, title = {A longitudinal study of the evolution of cognitive function and affective state in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.}, journal = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and other motor neuron disorders : official publication of the World Federation of Neurology, Research Group on Motor Neuron Diseases}, volume = {5}, number = {1}, pages = {46-54}, doi = {10.1080/14660820310017560}, pmid = {15204024}, issn = {1466-0822}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/*complications/psychology ; Analysis of Variance ; Case-Control Studies ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology ; Depression/*etiology ; Emotions/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Mental Status Schedule ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychometrics ; Time Factors ; Trail Making Test ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to evaluate cognitive function and emotional reactivity in 18 patients with ALS, compared to 19 matched controls, and assess their evolution over a 12-month period.<br><br>METHODS: 18 ALS patients and 19 matched controls were included, and assessed at inclusion, six months and twelve months later. Depression was evaluated with the Geriatric Depression Scale, and cognitive function with the Folstein Mini Mental State. A battery of psychometric tests (Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), the numerical Empan test, the Trail-making test, the Boston Naming Test, the 15-word Rey memory test, the Benton visual retention test and the Raven Progressive Matrix) was used to measure frontal processing and non-frontal function. Emotional reactivity was measured with the film-evoked emotions test.<br><br>RESULTS: ALS patients were significantly more depressed than controls, as measured on the Geriatric Depression Scale, and depression increased over the study period. There was a very mild defect in cognitive function, and a performance deficit in the Trail-making test, a measure of frontal processing. These deficits, unlike neuromuscular function and depression, did not aggravate over the 12 months of the study. There was no observable change in non-frontal function. Emotional reactivity did not differ significantly between ALS patients and controls.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study provides further evidence for a mild defect in frontal cognitive processing in ALS patients that evolves only slowly, if at all, with time.}, }
@article {pmid15203463, year = {2004}, author = {Jinabhai, CC and Taylor, M and Rangongo, MF and Mkhize, NJ and Anderson, S and Pillay, BJ and Sullivan, KR}, title = {Investigating the mental abilities of rural Zulu primary school children in South Africa.}, journal = {Ethnicity &amp; health}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {17-36}, doi = {10.1080/13557850410001673978}, pmid = {15203463}, issn = {1355-7858}, mesh = {Child ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Pilot Projects ; *Rural Population ; *Schools ; South Africa ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Maximising the full potential of health and educational interventions in South African schools requires assessment of the current level of mental abilities of the school children as measured by cognitive and scholastic tests and the identification of any barriers to improved performance.<br><br>OBJECTIVES: This study reports on the application and interpretation of a selected battery of mental ability tests among Zulu school children and the methodological and analytical issues that need to be addressed.<br><br>DESIGN: The test scores of 806 primary school children from a rural community are presented, based on four tests: Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM), an Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT), the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) and Young's Group Mathematics Test (GMT).<br><br>RESULTS: Significant gender differences were found in the test scores, and the mean scores of Zulu children in this study were lower than those reported in other studies. The results of this selected test battery provide data for the further development of appropriate test instruments for South African conditions.<br><br>CONCLUSION: These results can contribute towards the development of a test battery for South African children that can be used to assess and improve their school performance.}, }
@article {pmid15200865, year = {2004}, author = {Yaremych, SA and Warner, RE and Mankin, PC and Brawn, JD and Raim, A and Novak, R}, title = {West Nile virus and high death rate in American crows.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {10}, number = {4}, pages = {709-711}, pmid = {15200865}, issn = {1080-6040}, support = {U50/CCU520518-02/CC/ODCDC CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Bird Diseases/*mortality ; Female ; Male ; Songbirds/*virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {We document effects of West Nile virus (WNV) on American Crows. More than two thirds of our crows died of WNV infection, peaking when the proportion of infected mosquitoes at roosts was greatest. WNV antibody prevalence in crows was low. Local ecologic effects can be dramatic as WNV inhabits new areas.}, }
@article {pmid15200837, year = {2004}, author = {Watson, JT and Jones, RC and Gibbs, K and Paul, W}, title = {Dead crow reports and location of human West Nile virus cases, Chicago, 2002.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {10}, number = {5}, pages = {938-940}, pmid = {15200837}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*mortality/virology ; Chicago/epidemiology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Disease Outbreaks ; Disease Reservoirs/*veterinary ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Middle Aged ; Sentinel Surveillance ; Songbirds/*virology ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {During the summer and fall of 2002, an epidemic (223 cases) and epizootic of West Nile virus infections occurred in Chicago. Retrospective spatial analysis demonstrated that age-adjusted human case rates were three times higher inside geographic areas with high early-season crow deaths than outside these areas.}, }
@article {pmid15200828, year = {2004}, author = {Docherty, DE and Long, RR and Griffin, KM and Saito, EK}, title = {Corvidae feather pulp and West Nile virus detection.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {10}, number = {5}, pages = {907-909}, pmid = {15200828}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Chlorocebus aethiops ; Feathers/*virology ; Organ Specificity ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Songbirds/*virology ; Vero Cells ; West Nile Fever/veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {We evaluated cloacal swab, vascular pulp of flight feather, and kidney and spleen pool samples from carcasses of members of the family Corvidae as sources of West Nile virus (WNV). The cloacal swab, kidney and spleen pool, and feather pulp were the source of WNV in 38%, 43%, and 77%, respectively, of the carcasses.}, }
@article {pmid15198697, year = {2004}, author = {Alexander, RM}, title = {Bipedal animals, and their differences from humans.}, journal = {Journal of anatomy}, volume = {204}, number = {5}, pages = {321-330}, pmid = {15198697}, issn = {0021-8782}, mesh = {Animals ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Energy Metabolism/physiology ; Gait/*physiology ; Humans ; Posture/*physiology ; Range of Motion, Articular/physiology ; Running/physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Humans, birds and (occasionally) apes walk bipedally. Humans, birds, many lizards and (at their highest speeds) cockroaches run bipedally. Kangaroos, some rodents and many birds hop bipedally, and jerboas and crows use a skipping gait. This paper deals only with walking and running bipeds. Chimpanzees walk with their knees bent and their backs sloping forward. Most birds walk and run with their backs and femurs sloping at small angles to the horizontal, and with their knees bent. These differences from humans make meaningful comparisons of stride length, duty factor, etc., difficult, even with the aid of dimensionless parameters that would take account of size differences, if dynamic similarity were preserved. Lizards and cockroaches use wide trackways. Humans exert a two-peaked pattern of force on the ground when walking, and an essentially single-peaked pattern when running. The patterns of force exerted by apes and birds are never as markedly two-peaked as in fast human walking. Comparisons with quadrupedal mammals of the same body mass show that human walking is relatively economical of metabolic energy, and human running is expensive. Bipedal locomotion is remarkably economical for wading birds, and expensive for geese and penguins.}, }
@article {pmid15196819, year = {2004}, author = {Morrey, JD and Day, CW and Julander, JG and Olsen, AL and Sidwell, RW and Cheney, CD and Blatt, LM}, title = {Modeling hamsters for evaluating West Nile virus therapies.}, journal = {Antiviral research}, volume = {63}, number = {1}, pages = {41-50}, doi = {10.1016/j.antiviral.2004.02.005}, pmid = {15196819}, issn = {0166-3542}, support = {N01-AI-65291/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antiviral Agents/*therapeutic use ; Cell Culture Techniques ; Cricetinae ; *Disease Models, Animal ; Interferon Type I/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Interferon-alpha ; Interferons/therapeutic use ; Recombinant Proteins ; West Nile Fever/*drug therapy/epidemiology/pathology/veterinary ; West Nile virus/drug effects/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {A hamster model infected with a New York crow brain isolate of West Nile virus (WNV) was characterized for evaluating potential antiviral therapies. Older hamsters (7-11 weeks old) had a lower mortality of approximately 50% and more apparent disease signs as compared to >90% mortality in younger hamsters and mice. Disease signs such as limb strength, lacrimation, front limb tremors, somnolence, and deficiencies in neurological responses were noted at different times after viral injection. Weight loss was a marker for WNV disease signs, whereas, the ability to climb up an inclined ramp was associated with whether the animals survived the disease or died. Infectious WNV assays performed on tissues from hamsters during development of the infection indicated that viral titers peaked first in plasma, but that titers were eventually highest in kidney tissue. Viral titers achieved maximal levels in brain tissue on 6 dpi, which was 1-2 days before strong neurological signs and death started to occur. Maximal spleen and plasma titers were achieved sooner in young hamsters as compared with older hamsters, which correlated with increased susceptibility. To test the hypothesis that older hamsters would be more sensitive for identifying antiviral effects, Infergen, a consensus human interferon-alpha highly active against WNV in cell culture, was administered subcutaneously to older and younger hamsters beginning on 2 dpi. The effects of Infergen on weight change, survival, and climbing ability of infected animals were more apparent in older hamsters than in younger hamsters. The use of older hamsters is another WNV-infectious model, in addition to mice, for evaluating potential antiviral therapies.}, }
@article {pmid15193583, year = {2004}, author = {Nagano-Saito, A and Kato, T and Arahata, Y and Washimi, Y and Nakamura, A and Abe, Y and Yamada, T and Iwai, K and Hatano, K and Kawasumi, Y and Kachi, T and Dagher, A and Ito, K}, title = {Cognitive- and motor-related regions in Parkinson's disease: FDOPA and FDG PET studies.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {22}, number = {2}, pages = {553-561}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroimage.2004.01.030}, pmid = {15193583}, issn = {1053-8119}, mesh = {Biological Transport ; Brain/diagnostic imaging/*physiopathology ; Brain Mapping/*methods ; Cognition/*physiology ; Dihydroxyphenylalanine/*analogs &amp; derivatives/pharmacokinetics ; Female ; Fluorine Radioisotopes ; Fluorodeoxyglucose F18/pharmacokinetics ; Functional Laterality ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Motor Activity/*physiology ; Parkinson Disease/*physiopathology ; Radiopharmaceuticals/pharmacokinetics ; Regression Analysis ; Tomography, Emission-Computed ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Using 6-[(18)F]fluoro-L-dopa (FDOPA) and [(18)F]fluorodeoxyglucoce (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET), multiple regression analyses were performed to determine the specific brain regions that are related to cognitive and motor symptoms in nondemented patients with Parkinson's disease.<br><br>METHODS: Spatially normalized images of FDOPA influx rate constant (Ki) values and relative regional cerebral metabolic rates for glucose (rrCMRglc) were created. Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) scores and the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) motor scores were used to determine the patients' cognitive and motor functions, respectively. Multiple correlation analyses between the FDOPA and FDG images and the cognitive and motor scores were performed for each voxel.<br><br>RESULTS: RCPM score was significantly positively correlated with the FDOPA Ki in the left hippocampus and with the rrCMRglc in the left middle frontal gyrus and right retrosplenial cortex. Motor function was significantly positively correlated with the FDOPA Ki in the bilateral striatum and with the rrCMRglc in association areas and primary visual cortex. The level of motor function was significantly inversely correlated with the FDOPA Ki in the anterior cingulate gyrus and with the rrCMRglc in bilateral primary motor cortex and right putamen.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Changes of striatal FDOPA uptake and rrCMRglc in the primary motor cortex likely represent dysfunction in the motor system involving the corticobasal ganglia-thalamocortical loop. Change of FDOPA uptake in the anterior cingulate gyrus may be related to up-regulation of dopamine synthesis in surviving dopamine neurons. The regions where correlation with cognitive function was observed belong to a cognitive frontoparietal-hippocampal network.}, }
@article {pmid15191011, year = {2004}, author = {Krasin, MJ and Crawford, BT and Zhu, Y and Evans, ES and Sontag, MR and Kun, LE and Merchant, TE}, title = {Intensity-modulated radiation therapy for children with intraocular retinoblastoma: potential sparing of the bony orbit.}, journal = {Clinical oncology (Royal College of Radiologists (Great Britain))}, volume = {16}, number = {3}, pages = {215-222}, doi = {10.1016/j.clon.2003.11.008}, pmid = {15191011}, issn = {0936-6555}, support = {R25 CA023944/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Child ; Dose Fractionation, Radiation ; Eye Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Humans ; Orbit/radiation effects ; Radiation Injuries/prevention &amp; control ; Radiotherapy, Conformal ; Retinoblastoma/*radiotherapy ; Retrospective Studies ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {AIMS: We have evaluated the potential for intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to reduce dose to surrounding normal tissues in children with retinoblastoma confined to the globe of the eye.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Treatment planning computed tomography (CT) scans from five children were used for comparison of four radiotherapy techniques to treat the eye. IMRT, conformal, anterior-lateral photon and en face electron plans were generated using the Corvus (NOMOS) and PLUNC treatment planning systems. Doses to surrounding critical structures were compared after normalisation of target coverage.<br><br>RESULTS: The IMRT treatment technique allowed the greatest sparing of the surrounding bony orbit, with an average of 60% of the ipsilateral bony orbit treated above 20 Gy and 48% treated above 24 Gy when 45 Gy is prescribed to the globe. IMRT techniques reduced dose to the surrounding bony orbit by more than one-third compared with anterior-lateral photon and electron techniques, and by 23% compared with conformal techniques. The application of IMRT also reduced dose to other surrounding normal tissues, including the temporal lobe and contralateral orbit.<br><br>CONCLUSION: IMRT shows potential for protecting normal tissues in patients requiring external beam radiation therapy for retinoblastoma.}, }
@article {pmid15190094, year = {2004}, author = {Populin, LC and Tollin, DJ and Yin, TC}, title = {Effect of eye position on saccades and neuronal responses to acoustic stimuli in the superior colliculus of the behaving cat.}, journal = {Journal of neurophysiology}, volume = {92}, number = {4}, pages = {2151-2167}, doi = {10.1152/jn.00453.2004}, pmid = {15190094}, issn = {0022-3077}, support = {P51 RR000167/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DC007177/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; DC-03693/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; DC-00116/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; DC-02840/DC/NIDCD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Acoustic Stimulation ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Cats ; Ear, External/physiology ; Eye Movements/*physiology ; Mesencephalon/physiology ; Neurons/*physiology ; Saccades/*physiology ; Sound Localization/physiology ; Superior Colliculi/*physiology ; }, abstract = {We examined the motor error hypothesis of visual and auditory interaction in the superior colliculus (SC), first tested by Jay and Sparks in the monkey. We trained cats to direct their eyes to the location of acoustic sources and studied the effects of eye position on both the ability of cats to localize sounds and the auditory responses of SC neurons with the head restrained. Sound localization accuracy was generally not affected by initial eye position, i.e., accuracy was not proportionally affected by the deviation of the eyes from the primary position at the time of stimulus presentation, showing that eye position is taken into account when orienting to acoustic targets. The responses of most single SC neurons to acoustic stimuli in the intact cat were modulated by eye position in the direction consistent with the predictions of the "motor error" hypothesis, but the shift accounted for only two-thirds of the initial deviation of the eyes. However, when the average horizontal sound localization error, which was approximately 35% of the target amplitude, was taken into account, the magnitude of the horizontal shifts in the SC auditory receptive fields matched the observed behavior. The modulation by eye position was not due to concomitant movements of the external ears, as confirmed by recordings carried out after immobilizing the pinnae of one cat. However, the pattern of modulation after pinnae immobilization was inconsistent with the observations in the intact cat, suggesting that, in the intact animal, information about the position of the pinnae may be taken into account.}, }
@article {pmid15188656, year = {2004}, author = {Ternovoĭ, VA and Shchelkanov, MIu and Shestopalov, AM and Aristova, VA and Protopopova, EV and Gromashevskiĭ, VL and Druziaka, AV and Slavskiĭ, AA and Zolotykh, SI and Loktev, VB and L'vov, DK}, title = {[Detection of West Nile virus in birds in the territories of Baraba and Kulunda lowlands (West Siberian migration way) during summer-autumn of 2002].}, journal = {Voprosy virusologii}, volume = {49}, number = {3}, pages = {52-56}, pmid = {15188656}, issn = {0507-4088}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Animals, Wild/*virology ; Antigens, Viral/analysis ; Birds/*virology ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Viral/analysis ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Seasons ; Sequence Alignment ; Siberia ; West Nile virus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {West Nile Virus (WNV) was discovered in 3 species of birds collected in summer-autumn, 2002, in the South of Western Siberia. WNV was identified by ELISA and RT-PCR. Three of 5 dead rooks (Corvus frugilegus), which were found in the territory of the Kulunda plain, were WNV-infected. WNV RNA was detected in 2% of samples of internal organs of aquatics birds, i.e. teal (Anas crecca) and garganey (Anas querquedula), caught in the Chany Lake (Baraba plain). Nucleotide sequencing of the 300-472 aa fragment of WNV protein E gene showed the maximum level of homology with strain WNV/LEIV-Vlg99-27889, which was isolated from a patient in Volgograd (1999). A high homology level of nucleotide sequencing denotes the relationship between the WNV circulating in the Northern Caspian Region and in the South of Western Siberia.}, }
@article {pmid15185956, year = {2004}, author = {Cupp, EW and Tennessen, KJ and Oldland, WK and Hassan, HK and Hill, GE and Katholi, CR and Unnasch, TR}, title = {Mosquito and arbovirus activity during 1997-2002 in a wetland in northeastern Mississippi.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {41}, number = {3}, pages = {495-501}, pmid = {15185956}, issn = {0022-2585}, support = {R01 AI049724/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI049724-04/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01-AI-49724/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Arboviruses/classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Base Sequence ; Birds/parasitology ; Climate ; *Culex/physiology/virology ; *Culicidae/physiology/virology ; DNA Primers ; Environment ; Feeding Behavior ; Mississippi ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; }, abstract = {The species composition and population dynamics of adult mosquitoes in a wetland near Iuka, MS, were analyzed over a 6-yr period (1997-2002) and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection rates of arboviruses determined during five of those years. Blood meals of three likely vector species were identified using a PCR-based method that allows identification of the host to species. Culex erraticus (Dyar &amp; Knab) composed 51.9% of the population during the 6-yr period with 295 females collected per trap night. Eastern equine encephalomyelitis (EEE) virus was detected in six genera of mosquitoes [Coquillettidia perturbans (Walker), Culex restuans Theobald, Culex salinarius Coquillett, Culex erraticus (Dyar &amp; Knab), Anopheles crucians Wiedemann, Anopheles quadrimaculatus Say, Aedes vexans (Meigen), Ochlerotatus triseriatus Say, and Psorophora ferox Humboldt) with positive pools occurring in 1998, 1999, and 2002. Culiseta melanura Coquillett occurred at a low level (< 1%) and was not infected. Saint Louis encephalitis virus was detected once in a single pool of Cx. erraticus in 1998. Neither West Nile virus nor LaCrosse virus was found. Minimum infection rates per 1000 females tested of competent vectors of EEE virus were variable and ranged from 0.14 for Cx. erraticus to 40.0 for Oc. triseriatus. Thirty-nine species of birds were identified in the focus with blood-engorged mosquitoes found to contain meals (n = 29) from eight avian species. The majority of meals was from the great blue heron, Ardea herodias L. (n = 55%), but when bird abundance data were adjusted for avian mass, the brown-headed cowbird, Molothrus ater (Boddaert); blue jay, Cyanocitta cristata (L.); and northern mockingbird, Mimus polyglottos (L.), were overrepresented as hosts.}, }
@article {pmid15177684, year = {2004}, author = {Komiyama, T and Ikeo, K and Gojobori, T}, title = {The evolutionary origin of long-crowing chicken: its evolutionary relationship with fighting cocks disclosed by the mtDNA sequence analysis.}, journal = {Gene}, volume = {333}, number = {}, pages = {91-99}, doi = {10.1016/j.gene.2004.02.035}, pmid = {15177684}, issn = {0378-1119}, mesh = {Aggression ; Animals ; Chickens/classification/*genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/chemistry/*genetics ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Female ; Genetics, Behavioral ; Geography ; Japan ; Male ; Models, Genetic ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Chickens with exceptionally long crow are often favored all over the world, and connoisseur breeders have bred certain types of chicken exclusively for this trait. In Japan, three chicken varieties have been specifically bred to develop an exceptionally long crow of over 15 s. Although these three long-crowing chickens, Naganakidori, are honored as heritage varieties of Japan, the domestication process and genealogical origin of long-crowing chickens remain unclear. The purpose of this study is to clarify these issues using nucleotide sequences of the mitochondrial DNA D-loop region. Blood samples from a total of nine long-crowing chickens and 74 chickens from 11 Japanese native varieties were collected. DNA sequence data of two Junglefowl species were also collected from the International DNA database (DDBJ /EMBL/GenBank) for use as the outgroup. A phylogenetic tree was then constructed revealing that all three Naganakidori varieties were monophyletic and originated from a fighting cock, a Shamo, for cockfighting. These results suggest that these three long-crowing chickens share a common origin in spite of their conspicuously different characters, and that human cultures favoring long-crowing chickens might have been preceded by a tradition of cockfighting. Moreover, these long-crowing varieties first separated from the fighting cocks of Okinawa, which is geographically closer to Southern China and Indochina than Mainland Japan (Honshu/Kyushu). This implies that Japanese long-crowing chickens were first brought to Mainland Japan as fighting cocks from the surrounding regions of Southern China or Indochina and through Okinawa.}, }
@article {pmid15175879, year = {2004}, author = {Petney, TN and Andrews, RH and McDiarmid, LA and Dixon, BR}, title = {Argas persicus sensu stricto does occur in Australia.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {93}, number = {4}, pages = {296-299}, pmid = {15175879}, issn = {0932-0113}, mesh = {Animals ; Argas/*classification/genetics ; DNA/genetics ; Disease Vectors ; Poultry Diseases/parasitology ; RNA/analysis ; RNA, Mitochondrial ; RNA, Ribosomal/analysis ; South Australia/epidemiology ; Tick Infestations/epidemiology/parasitology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {The status of Argas persicus in Australia has been a matter of controversy for over 25 years. Although early records of A. persicus sensu stricto are common, a major revision of the genus indicated that these records refer to A. robertsi, first described in 1968 from northern Australia, and to an "undescribed" member of the complex occurring in the south. Here, we show that A. persicus sensu stricto does occur in southern Australia and is the only species of Argas in the area recorded from poultry. Another undescribed species belonging to the A. persicus complex, from crows' nests near Lake Eyre in South Australia, was also discovered. This information is of considerable epidemiological significance, as A. persicus sensu stricto is a major vector for a number of highly pathogenic diseases of poultry, not all of which have yet been recorded from Australia.}, }
@article {pmid15174535, year = {2004}, author = {Verhoef, M and Barf, HA and Post, MW and van Asbeck, FW and Gooskens, RH and Prevo, AJ}, title = {Secondary impairments in young adults with spina bifida.}, journal = {Developmental medicine and child neurology}, volume = {46}, number = {6}, pages = {420-427}, doi = {10.1017/s0012162204000684}, pmid = {15174535}, issn = {0012-1622}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Health Status ; Humans ; Hydrocephalus/epidemiology/*etiology ; Male ; Medical History Taking ; Prevalence ; Spinal Dysraphism/*complications ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of secondary impairments in young adults with spina bifida and to relate the prevalence to the type of spina bifida and the level of lesion. This cross-sectional study is part of the ASPINE (Adolescents with Spina Bifida in the Netherlands) study. Data were collected on medical history, hydrocephalus (shunt: yes/no), neurological level of lesion (International Standards for Neurological and Functional Classification of Spinal Cord Injury), visual acuity (Landolt rings), spasticity (Modified Ashworth Scale), contractures (range of motion), scoliosis (deviation from perpendicular), ambulation (Hoffer criteria), pressure sores and blood pressure (physical examination), epilepsy, pain, incontinence and sexuality (questionnaire), and cognitive functioning (Raven Standard Progressive Matrices). In total, 179 patients with spina bifida participated (41% male, age range 16 to 25 years, mean 20 years 9 months, SD 2 years 11 months). These were 37 patients with spina bifida occulta, 119 patients with spina bifida aperta and hydrocephalus (AHC+) and 23 patients with spina bifida aperta without hydrocephalus (AHC-). Of our patient group, 73 had a high-level lesion (L2 and above), 68 a mid-level lesion (L3 to L5), and 38 a low-level lesion (S1 and below). Both subdivisions were strongly related with patients with higher lesions more often having hydrocephalus. Most secondary impairments were found for patients with AHC+, and patients with AHC- were mostly comparable to patients with spina bifida occulta. According to level of lesion, most medical problems were found in the high-level lesion group. However, all subgroups suffered from health problems.}, }
@article {pmid15171181, year = {2004}, author = {Asamura, H and Takayanagi, K and Ota, M and Kobayashi, K and Fukushima, H}, title = {Unusual characteristic patterns of postmortem injuries.}, journal = {Journal of forensic sciences}, volume = {49}, number = {3}, pages = {592-594}, pmid = {15171181}, issn = {0022-1198}, mesh = {Aged ; Animals ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Fires ; *Forensic Anthropology ; Humans ; *Postmortem Changes ; Songbirds ; Wounds and Injuries/*pathology ; }, abstract = {Animal scavenging is one of the most significant causes of postmortem injuries. A large variety of scavenging animals have been reported on in previous papers. Although postmortem injuries attributable to birds are well known in the case of "aerial burial," the custom in Tibet, few cases of bird scavenging have been reported. In the two cases discussed herein, postmortem injuries were attributed to crows. Both cases, shared characteristic patterns of postmortem injuries, and in both cases death was attributed to fire. Although massive tissue loss by the crow scavenging made it difficult to determine the cause of the death and rendered personal identification difficult, 1 mL of blood drawn from the intracranial cavity and DNA analysis enabled this information to be determined, albeit with some difficulty.}, }
@article {pmid15164696, year = {2004}, author = {Fong, T}, title = {Acting the part. While Cover the Uninsured Week adds star power to its campaign, few viable solutions are in the works.}, journal = {Modern healthcare}, volume = {34}, number = {19}, pages = {6-7, 14, 1}, pmid = {15164696}, issn = {0160-7480}, mesh = {Anniversaries and Special Events ; Drama ; Famous Persons ; Health Care Reform/economics/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Medically Uninsured/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Politics ; Television ; United States ; Universal Health Insurance/economics/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; }, abstract = {While Cover the Uninsured Week may have a celebrity spokesman in TV star Noah Wyle, the campaign is still lacking viable legislative solutions. As Sen. Jay Rockefeller, left, noted at a news conference kicking off the event, the "me-first" special interests of the various healthcare trade associations have made putting together a comprehensive approach to the uninsured problem nearly impossible.}, }
@article {pmid15163421, year = {2004}, author = {Tewari, D and Kim, H and Feria, W and Russo, B and Acland, H}, title = {Detection of West Nile virus using formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissues in crows and horses: quantification of viral transcripts by real-time RT-PCR.}, journal = {Journal of clinical virology : the official publication of the Pan American Society for Clinical Virology}, volume = {30}, number = {4}, pages = {320-325}, doi = {10.1016/j.jcv.2004.01.003}, pmid = {15163421}, issn = {1386-6532}, mesh = {Animals ; Antigens, Viral/analysis ; Bird Diseases/virology ; Formaldehyde ; Horse Diseases/virology ; Horses/*virology ; Immunohistochemistry ; Organ Specificity ; Paraffin Embedding/*methods ; RNA, Viral/*analysis ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction/*methods ; Songbirds/*virology ; Tissue Fixation ; Transcription, Genetic ; West Nile Fever/veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) RNA was quantified in WNV infected crows and horses with the help of a real-time reverse transcriptase-PCR assay. A 5' nuclease assay, based on NS5 gene detection with a fluorescent probe was used for quantifying WNV RNA using formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissue specimens. Quantitative detection of WNV RNA showed the presence of a higher amount of the viral RNA in crow tissues compared to equine tissues and these results correlated well with the detection of WNV antigen by immunostaining. In crows, the highest amount of virus was seen in the intestine and in horses in the brain.}, }
@article {pmid15160707, year = {2004}, author = {Heath, I}, title = {"The cawing of the crow...Cassandra-like, prognosticating woe".}, journal = {The British journal of general practice : the journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners}, volume = {54}, number = {501}, pages = {320-321}, pmid = {15160707}, issn = {0960-1643}, mesh = {*Contracts ; Family Practice/*organization &amp; administration ; Humans ; Physician-Patient Relations ; Primary Health Care/organization &amp; administration ; State Medicine/organization &amp; administration ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid15158548, year = {2004}, author = {Klein, AW}, title = {Contraindications and complications with the use of botulinum toxin.}, journal = {Clinics in dermatology}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {66-75}, doi = {10.1016/j.clindermatol.2003.12.026}, pmid = {15158548}, issn = {0738-081X}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; Contraindications ; Face ; Humans ; Hyperhidrosis/drug therapy ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Migraine Disorders/drug therapy ; Neuromuscular Agents/administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; Skin Aging ; Torticollis/drug therapy ; }, abstract = {Cosmetic use of BTX has skyrocketed in recent years, especially since the approval of BTX-A for treatment of glabellar lines. Complications and adverse reactions can easily arise, particularly for the novice injector. This paper provides insights from an experienced physician on how to avoid these complications, and how to treat them when and if they occur. The main cosmetic uses for BTX are analyzed for possible complications and adverse events. Injection techniques are discussed. Comparisons between BTX-A and BTX-B are given to point out the need for different injection techniques based on the product being used. Treatment recommendations for the Glabella, Brow, Crow's Feet, Upper Lip Wrinkling/Lines, Depressor Anguli Oris, Nasolabial Folds, Mentalis, Neck and Hyperhidrosis are discussed, as well as systemic complications. It is important for the injecting physician to be familiar with these potential complications, even though the use of BTX has been safe and generally well tolerated, because it will lead to even greater success with the use of BTX.}, }
@article {pmid15158547, year = {2004}, author = {Baumann, LS and Halem, ML}, title = {Botulinum toxin-B and the management of hyperhidrosis.}, journal = {Clinics in dermatology}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {60-65}, doi = {10.1016/j.clindermatol.2003.11.001}, pmid = {15158547}, issn = {0738-081X}, mesh = {Axilla ; Botulinum Toxins/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; Hand ; Humans ; Hyperhidrosis/*drug therapy ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; }, abstract = {A new serotype of botulinum toxin has recently arrived in the US. Botulinum toxin type B (BTX-B), known as Myobloc in the United States and as Neurobloc in Europe, is one of seven different antigenic members of the botulinum toxin family, five of which the human nervous system is susceptible to. Like botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A), BTX-B has been used for a myriad of both dermatologic and nondermatologic problems since its recent approval by the FDA for the treatment of cervical dystonia in December 2000. It is currently not approved however, for a cosmetic use but has been used for this purpose in an "off-label" fashion. It has followed in the therapeutic footsteps of BTX-A in the prevention and treatment of facial wrinkles such as crow's feet and glabellar frown lines. In addition, one of its current and popular uses is in the management of hyperhidrosis, a disease in search of a long needed treatment. This past year researchers have been investigating the efficacy as well as defining the dosing and application regiments of BTX-B in the treatment of hyperhidrosis. In addition, recent studies have been examining its side effect profile, which may be very different than that seen with BTX-A. There are only a handful of studies in the literature examining the cosmetic applications of BTX-B. This chapter will review what is currently known about BTX-B and its current use in regards to the treatment of hyperhidrosis.}, }
@article {pmid15158543, year = {2004}, author = {Yamauchi, PS and Lowe, NJ}, title = {Botulinum toxin types A and B: comparison of efficacy, duration, and dose-ranging studies for the treatment of facial rhytides and hyperhidrosis.}, journal = {Clinics in dermatology}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {34-39}, doi = {10.1016/j.clindermatol.2003.11.005}, pmid = {15158543}, issn = {0738-081X}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins/*administration &amp; dosage ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Facial Muscles ; Humans ; Hyperhidrosis/*drug therapy ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {One of the most common etiologic forces for the persistence of facial rhytides is the repetitive contraction of the intrinsic muscles that are necessary for facial expression. These include the forehead lines, crow's feet, glabellar rhytides, and wrinkles in the lower face. Although filling agents such as collagen and laser procedures can help reduce the appearance of these lines, they do not address the underlying forces that cause these wrinkles to persist. Botulinum toxin type-A and type-B are neurotoxins that address these issues and result in the relaxation of the intrinsic facial muscles and subsequent resolution of these dynamic facial rhytides. This article will compare the efficacy, duration, dose ranging studies, and safety in the treatment of facial rhytides with both types of toxins. In addition, the treatment of hyperhidrosis with type-A and type-B botulinum toxin will also be discussed.}, }
@article {pmid15155993, year = {2004}, author = {Garvin, MC and Tarvin, KA and Smith, J and Ohajuruka, OA and Grimes, S}, title = {Patterns of West Nile virus infection in Ohio blue jays: implications for initiation of the annual cycle.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {70}, number = {5}, pages = {566-570}, pmid = {15155993}, issn = {0002-9637}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology ; Birds ; Ohio ; Prevalence ; Time Factors ; West Nile Fever/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) was first detected in North America in New York City in 1999 and rapidly moved westward. Understanding the mechanisms by which the amplification cycle is reinitiated each year increases our ability to predict epizootics and geographic expansion of the disease. Such understanding is enhanced by knowledge of the patterns of infection in the vertebrate reservoir hosts. Blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) may serve as reservoir hosts for WNV. We examined the influence of age and date on the prevalence of WNV in jay carcasses in Ohio during May-August 2002. Percent of carcasses that were infected increased significantly with time from 3% in May to more than 90% by August. We found no difference in prevalence between juvenile (nestlings and fledglings) and adult jays early in the season, which contradicts the expected pattern if the majority of the adults sampled in 2002 had been exposed to the virus in 2001. Therefore, jays infected in 2001 were unlikely to have been important in initiating the 2002 virus cycle in Ohio.}, }
@article {pmid15155396, year = {2004}, author = {O'Callaghan, FJ and Harris, T and Joinson, C and Bolton, P and Noakes, M and Presdee, D and Renowden, S and Shiell, A and Martyn, CN and Osborne, JP}, title = {The relation of infantile spasms, tubers, and intelligence in tuberous sclerosis complex.}, journal = {Archives of disease in childhood}, volume = {89}, number = {6}, pages = {530-533}, pmid = {15155396}, issn = {1468-2044}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Cerebral Cortex ; Child ; England/epidemiology ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Intelligence ; Learning Disabilities/*etiology ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Spasms, Infantile/*etiology ; Tuberous Sclerosis/*complications/pathology ; Wechsler Scales/standards ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The aetiology of the learning difficulty in tuberous sclerosis is debated. It may be related to the amount of tubers in the brain or caused by the infantile spasms that occur in early life.<br><br>AIMS: To examine the relative contributions to final intelligence (IQ) made by both cerebral tubers and infantile spasms.<br><br>METHODS: As part of an epidemiological study of tuberous sclerosis in the south of England, patients were recruited who were able to undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) without the need for an anaesthetic. Epilepsy history was determined by interview and review of clinical records. IQ was assessed using either Wechsler intelligence scales or Raven's matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 41 patients consented to have an MRI scan. IQ scores were normally distributed about a mean of 91. Twenty six patients had a positive history of epilepsy, and 11 had suffered from infantile spasms. There was a significant relation between the number of tubers and IQ. Infantile spasm status partly confounded the relation between tubers and IQ, but did not render the relation statistically insignificant. The relation between infantile spasms and learning difficulty remained strong even when controlling for the number of tubers.}, }
@article {pmid15155036, year = {2004}, author = {Croizet, JC and Després, G and Gauzins, ME and Huguet, P and Leyens, JP and Méot, A}, title = {Stereotype threat undermines intellectual performance by triggering a disruptive mental load.}, journal = {Personality &amp; social psychology bulletin}, volume = {30}, number = {6}, pages = {721-731}, doi = {10.1177/0146167204263961}, pmid = {15155036}, issn = {0146-1672}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition ; Female ; Heart Rate ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Stereotyping ; *Stress, Psychological ; }, abstract = {Research on stereotype threat has repeatedly demonstrated that the intellectual performance of social groups is particularly sensitive to the situational context in which tests are usually administered. In the present experiment, an adaptation of the Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices Test was introduced as a measure of cognitive ability. Results showed that individuals targeted by a reputation of intellectual inferiority scored lower on the test than did other people. However, when the identical test was not presented as a measure of cognitive ability, the achievement gap between the target and the control group disappeared. Using heart rate variability indices to assess mental workload, our findings showed that the situational salience of a reputation of lower ability undermined intellectual performance by triggering a disruptive mental load. Our results indicate that group differences in cognitive ability scores can reflect different situational burdens and not necessarily actual differences in cognitive ability.}, }
@article {pmid15147999, year = {2004}, author = {Crone, EA and van der Molen, MW}, title = {Developmental changes in real life decision making: performance on a gambling task previously shown to depend on the ventromedial prefrontal cortex.}, journal = {Developmental neuropsychology}, volume = {25}, number = {3}, pages = {251-279}, doi = {10.1207/s15326942dn2503_2}, pmid = {15147999}, issn = {8756-5641}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Analysis of Variance ; Case-Control Studies ; Chi-Square Distribution ; Child ; Concept Formation/physiology ; Decision Making/*physiology ; Feedback ; Female ; Gambling/*psychology ; Humans ; Male ; *Neuropsychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Prefrontal Cortex/*physiology ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {Patients with bilateral lesions of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, when performing gambling tasks modeling real-life decision-making, opt for choices that yield high immediate gains in spite of higher future losses. Under the hypothesis that the prefrontal cortex is the last brain region to mature, it was examined whether young children would show a similar preference for immediate prospects. In Experiment 1, 4 age groups (6-9, 10-12, 13-15 and 18-25 years olds) performed 2 versions of a computerized variant of the original Iowa gambling task under 3 different feedback conditions (no feedback, global feedback, and option-specific feedback) and completed the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices as an index of inductive reasoning ability. In Experiment 2, 3 age groups (7-8, 11-12, and 15-16 year olds) performed both task versions in addition to a working memory task ("Digit Span Backwards"). Results showed a developmental increase in the sensitivity to future consequences, positive or negative, that could not be explained by developmental changes in working memory capacity or inductive reasoning. It was concluded that young children share with ventromedial prefrontal patients the failure to anticipate on future outcomes.}, }
@article {pmid15147489, year = {2004}, author = {Frey, MC and Detterman, DK}, title = {Scholastic Assessment or g? The relationship between the Scholastic Assessment Test and general cognitive ability.}, journal = {Psychological science}, volume = {15}, number = {6}, pages = {373-378}, doi = {10.1111/j.0956-7976.2004.00687.x}, pmid = {15147489}, issn = {0956-7976}, support = {HD 07176/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Cognition ; *Educational Measurement ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; }, abstract = {There is little evidence showing the relationship between the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) and g (general intelligence). This research established the relationship between SAT and g, as well as the appropriateness of the SAT as a measure of g, and examined the SAT as a premorbid measure of intelligence. In Study 1, we used the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979. Measures of g were extracted from the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery and correlated with SAT scores of 917 participants. The resulting correlation was.82 (.86 corrected for nonlinearity). Study 2 investigated the correlation between revised and recentered SAT scores and scores on the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices among 104 undergraduates. The resulting correlation was.483 (.72 corrected for restricted range). These studies indicate that the SAT is mainly a test of g. We provide equations for converting SAT scores to estimated IQs; such conversion could be useful for estimating premorbid IQ or conducting individual difference research with college students.}, }
@article {pmid15145162, year = {2004}, author = {Ben-Josef, E and Shields, AF and Vaishampayan, U and Vaitkevicius, V and El-Rayes, BF and McDermott, P and Burmeister, J and Bossenberger, T and Philip, PA}, title = {Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and concurrent capecitabine for pancreatic cancer.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {59}, number = {2}, pages = {454-459}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijrobp.2003.11.019}, pmid = {15145162}, issn = {0360-3016}, mesh = {Adenocarcinoma/*drug therapy/*radiotherapy ; Adult ; Aged ; Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic/*therapeutic use ; Capecitabine ; Combined Modality Therapy ; Deoxycytidine/*analogs &amp; derivatives/*therapeutic use ; Fluorouracil/analogs &amp; derivatives ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Pancreatic Neoplasms/*drug therapy/*radiotherapy ; Prodrugs/*therapeutic use ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/adverse effects/*methods ; Retrospective Studies ; Gemcitabine ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: Local failure continues to be a major problem in the management of pancreatic cancer. Delivery of adequate radiation doses to the pancreas is limited by radiation-sensitive normal structures in the upper abdomen. To overcome some of these restrictions, we have developed a regimen of intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) with concurrent capecitabine.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIAL: This is a retrospective analysis of the first 15 patients with adenocarcinoma of the pancreas treated on this regimen (7 as adjuvant therapy after curative resection and 8 patients for unresectable disease). Intensity-modulated radiotherapy was planned using the CORVUS system and delivered with a segmented multileaf collimator, using a 6-MV photon beam and 10 intensity steps. Two target volumes were entered: target 1 consisted of the gross tumor volume (in unresectable cases) or the tumor bed (in postsurgical cases); and target 2 consisted of the draining lymph nodes. Both targets were treated simultaneously in 25 daily fractions, 5 days a week. In the postoperative setting, the total dose to target 1 was 45-54 Gy (median, 54 Gy). For unresectable disease the dose was 54-55 Gy (median, 54 Gy). The total dose to target 2 was 45 Gy in all patients. Patients were treated with one of two six-field beam arrangements found to produce superior dose distributions. Capecitabine was given at 1,600 mg/m(2)/day in two divided doses, 5 days per week, concurrently with radiotherapy. In addition, most patients (73%) received gemcitabine-based chemotherapy. Systemic chemotherapy was given before, after, or both before and after chemoradiotherapy in 47%, 7%, and 20% of patients, respectively. Patients were evaluated on a weekly basis.<br><br>RESULTS: Treatment was tolerated well. Grade 1/2 nausea/vomiting developed in 8 patients (53%) and Grade 1/2 hematologic toxicity developed in 9 patients (60%). Only 1 patient (7%) had Grade 3 toxicity, a gastric ulceration that responded to medical management. Nine patients (60%) had weight loss (median, 7 lbs; range, 3-12 lbs). The median follow-up time is 8.5 months (10.1 months in patients who are alive). In the resectable group there have been no deaths, and there has been 1 local relapse (14%). In the unresectable group there have been 2 deaths, and the 1-year actuarial survival rate is 69%. Two patients converted to resectability, 5 patients (62.5%) have persistent locoregional disease after chemoradiotherapy, and 1 patient (12%) is locally controlled without surgery.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This regimen of IMRT with tumor-selective radiosensitization is well tolerated. The low toxicity profile compares favorably with that of protocols based on continuous-infusion 5-fluorouracil or gemcitabine, and the preliminary indications of efficacy are encouraging.}, }
@article {pmid15143597, year = {2004}, author = {Khalimov, EV and Kapustin, BB}, title = {[On the question of functional postvagotomy complications].}, journal = {Vestnik khirurgii imeni I. I. Grekova}, volume = {163}, number = {1}, pages = {98-101}, pmid = {15143597}, issn = {0042-4625}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Diarrhea/*etiology ; Female ; Hemodynamics ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Postoperative Care ; *Vagotomy, Proximal Gastric ; }, abstract = {The intraoperative measures preventing functional complications after vagotomy were determined in performing organ-saving operations on 63 patients with complications of ulcer disease of the duodenum. Truncal vagotomy must be supplemented with draining operation. The draining operations should be carried out with the dissection of the cicatricial-ulcerous infiltration. The gastroduodenal anastomosis in draining operation should be formed by a one-row suture. When performing selective proximal vagotomy and its variants it is necessary to avoid iatrogenic damage of the Laterge nerve and its terminal part--"crow's feet". Mobilization of the abdominal part of the esophagus during different variants of selective proximal vagotomy must be fulfilled along the length not more than 5 cm proximal to the gastro-esophageal passage and to be associated with a correcting operation on the esophagocardial part.}, }
@article {pmid15134034, year = {2004}, author = {Blazková-Ctrnáctá, D and Kalvach, P and Preissová, I and Müllerová, B}, title = {[Loss of intelligence in aphasic disorders].}, journal = {Casopis lekaru ceskych}, volume = {143}, number = {3}, pages = {164-168}, pmid = {15134034}, issn = {0008-7335}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aphasia/etiology/*psychology ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Stroke/complications ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Certain level of aphasia is considered to be an integral component of dementia. More controversial is the question whether every--e.g. also strictly focal--aphasia must be accompanied with dementia.<br><br>METHODS AND RESULTS: 41 persons hospitalized after the cerebral stroke (17 men, 24 women, average age 64.6, 47 to 89 years old) were tested to correlate the level of aphasia with mental and intelligence scores. 35 patients had an ischaemic stroke, 6 had a hemorrhagic one; according to CT/MRI there were 37 patients with left sided impairment, one patient with a right sided one and 3 patients with bilateral lesions. As an aphasiologic test the Western Aphasia Battery (WAB) was used, to determine the general mental performance as an equivalent of IQ test the non-verbal Raven's and verbal Euro-ADAS test were used. Correlation analysis using non-parametric Spearman's coefficient showed a significant relation between results in phatic functions and the score in intelligence tests. Phatic performance had in all elementary tests closer relation to verbal IQ in Euro-ADAS than with non-verbal IQ in Raven's test. The highest correlation was found in the relation between "apprehension vs. Euro-ADAS" (-0.842) and "apprehension vs. Raven" (0.782), while the lowest correlation was found for "repetition vs. Euro-ADAS" (-0.769), and "repetition vs. Raven" (0.646). The correlation was in all cases significant (p < 0.00001). Similar narrow relation occurred between the clinical forms of aphasia and intelligence tests. Sensory aphasia was associated most closely with both relations, with Euro-ADAS (-0.800), and Raven's test (0.800), while global aphasia had the lowest correlation with Euro-ADAS (-0.451) and with Raven's test (0.517).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Speech is not only a product of thinking but also represents a source and structural tool for thinking.}, }
@article {pmid15133731, year = {2004}, author = {Fernández-Juricic, E and Jokimäki, J and McDonald, JC and Melado, F and Toledano, A and Mayo, C and Martín, B and Fresneda, I and Martín, V}, title = {Effects of opportunistic predation on anti-predator behavioural responses in a guild of ground foragers.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {140}, number = {1}, pages = {183-190}, pmid = {15133731}, issn = {0029-8549}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; *Food Chain ; Models, Biological ; *Predatory Behavior ; Songbirds/physiology ; }, abstract = {We studied factors that affect prey selection by a generalist predator that opportunistically attacks prey species, and the associated inter- and intra-specific responses of prey to this type of predation. Our model system was a guild of ground-foraging birds that are preyed upon by magpies (Pica pica) during the breeding season. We found that magpies attacked up to 12 species during three consecutive breeding seasons. The overall capture success was estimated to be 4.9%. Magpies tended to attack from the air, targeting solitary prey, either on the ground or flying. Inter-specific prey responses to the risk of magpie predation included a reduction in the mean number of species occupying a foraging patch when magpies were present and a decrease in the distance between heterospecific neighbours. Intra-specific responses to magpie predation varied between species that were subject to different attack rates. Preferentially attacked prey enhanced their risk responses (increase in scanning time and scanning rate in the presence of magpies) relative to those species attacked in proportion to their abundance (increase only in scanning rate with magpies). Species attacked infrequently, relative to their abundance, showed no antipredator response. The probability of being attacked, rather than mortality rate, appears to be the factor to which prey species respond.}, }
@article {pmid15131967, year = {2004}, author = {Spiridonova, LN and Kriukov, AP}, title = {[Genetic variation of carrion and hooded crows and their hybrids based on RAPD-PCR data].}, journal = {TSitologiia i genetika}, volume = {38}, number = {2}, pages = {31-39}, pmid = {15131967}, issn = {0564-3783}, mesh = {Animals ; *Chimera ; *Genetic Variation ; Heterozygote ; Phylogeny ; Polymorphism, Genetic ; Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Technique/*methods ; Songbirds/*genetics ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {RAPD-PCR analysis of genetic variability of carrion crows, hooded crows and their phenotypic hybrids from the zones of overlap of their areals and hybridization of parental forms in Siberia has been carried out. According to RAPD variability the following parameters were estimated for both species and their hybrids: genetical distances (DN), polymorphism (P95), mean expected heterozygosity (H(e)), gene fixation coefficient (Fst) and the portion of interpopulation differentiation (Gst). It was shown that the rate of genetic variability in carrion crows and hooded crows is less than in the hybrids. It turned out that the hybrids were genetically closer to each other (DN = 0.295) than to both parental species (DN = 0.441 and 0.397 with C. corone and C. cornix, correspondingly). The studied individuals of C. cornix show the minimal level of heterozygosity and polymorphism (H(e) = 0.12 and P95 = = 27.8%) in comparison with C. corone and the crows of hybrid zone (H(e) = 0.18 and 0.20; P95 = 42.6% and 50.4%, correspondingly). Right's indexes of inbreeding (Fst = 0.285) and population spliting (Gst = 0.352) indicate low genetic variability in all the analysed birds. Nevertheless UPGMA and NJ dendrogrammes differentiate the individuals from the areals of carrion crows, hooded crows and from hybrid zone to different clusters. Our data correlate with molecular-genetic investigations of Corvidae carried out with other methods, and do not contradict the conception of carrion crows and hooded crows as semispecies in the context of the conception of overspecies.}, }
@article {pmid15129966, year = {2004}, author = {Drovetski, SV and Zink, RM and Rohwer, S and Fadeev, IV and Nesterov, EV and Karagodin, I and Koblik, EA and Red'kin, YA}, title = {Complex biogeographic history of a Holarctic passerine.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {271}, number = {1538}, pages = {545-551}, pmid = {15129966}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; DNA Primers ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; *Demography ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Genetics, Population ; Geography ; Likelihood Functions ; Models, Genetic ; Molecular Sequence Data ; *Phylogeny ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Songbirds/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Our analysis of the ND2 sequences revealed six clades within winter wrens (Troglodytes troglodytes). These clades corresponded to six geographical regions: western Nearctic, eastern Nearctic, eastern Asia, Nepal, Caucasus and Europe, and differed by 3-8.8% of sequence divergence. Differences among regions explained 96% of the sequence variation in winter wren. Differences among individuals within localities explained 3% of the sequence variation, and differences among localities within regions explained 1%. Grouping sequences into subspecies instead of localities did not change these proportions. Proliferation of the six clades coincided with Early and Middle Pleistocene glaciations. The distribution of winter wren clades can be explained by a series of five consecutive vicariant events. Western Nearctic wrens diverged from the Holarctic ancestor 1.6 Myr before the present time (MYBP). Eastern Nearctic and Palaearctic wrens diverged 1 MYBP. Eastern and western Palaearctic birds diverged 0.83 MYBP. Nepalese and east Asian wrens diverged 0.67 MYBP, and Caucasian birds diverged from European wrens 0.54 MYBP. The winter wren has a much greater degree of inter- and intracontinental differentiation than the three other Holarctic birds studied to date--dunlin (Calidris alpina), common raven (Corvus corax) and three-toed woodpecker (Picoides trydactylus)--and represents an example of cryptic speciation that has been overlooked.}, }
@article {pmid15124986, year = {2004}, author = {Luan, S and Wang, C and Chen, DZ and Hu, XS and Naqvi, SA and Yu, CX and Lee, CL}, title = {A new MLC segmentation algorithm/software for step-and-shoot IMRT delivery.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {31}, number = {4}, pages = {695-707}, doi = {10.1118/1.1646471}, pmid = {15124986}, issn = {0094-2405}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Computer Simulation ; Humans ; *Models, Biological ; Pancreatic Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Radiometry/*methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; Software ; }, abstract = {We present a new MLC segmentation algorithm/software for step-and-shoot IMRT delivery. Our aim in this work is to shorten the treatment time by minimizing the number of segments. Our new segmentation algorithm, called SLS (an abbreviation for static leaf sequencing), is based on graph algorithmic techniques in computer science. It takes advantage of the geometry of intensity maps. In our SLS approach, intensity maps are viewed as three-dimensional (3-D) "mountains" made of unit-sized "cubes." Such a 3-D "mountain" is first partitioned into special-structured submountains using a new mixed partitioning scheme. Then the optimal leaf sequences for each submountain are computed by either a shortest-path algorithm or a maximum-flow algorithm based on graph models. The computations of SLS take only a few minutes. Our comparison studies of SLS with CORVUS (both the 4.0 and 5.0 versions) and with the Xia and Verhey segmentation methods on Elekta Linac systems showed substantial improvements. For instance, for a pancreatic case, SLS used only one-fifth of the number of segments required by CORVUS 4.0 to create the same intensity maps, and the SLS sequences took only 25 min to deliver on an Elekta SL 20 Linac system in contrast to the 72 min for the CORVUS 4.0 sequences (a three-fold improvement). To verify the accuracy of our new leaf sequences, we conducted film and ion-chamber measurements on phantom. The results showed that both the intensity distributions as well as dose distributions of the SLS delivery match well with those of CORVUS delivery. SLS can also be extended to other types of Linac systems.}, }
@article {pmid15118882, year = {2004}, author = {Formisano, R and Carlesimo, GA and Sabbadini, M and Loasses, A and Penta, F and Vinicola, V and Caltagirone, C}, title = {Clinical predictors and neuropsychological outcome in severe traumatic brain injury patients.}, journal = {Acta neurochirurgica}, volume = {146}, number = {5}, pages = {457-462}, doi = {10.1007/s00701-004-0225-4}, pmid = {15118882}, issn = {0001-6268}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Brain Injuries/complications/*physiopathology/psychology ; Case-Control Studies ; Cognition/*physiology ; Coma, Post-Head Injury/etiology/physiopathology/psychology ; Enteral Nutrition ; Female ; Glasgow Outcome Scale ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Recovery of Function ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; Verbal Behavior/physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to evaluate the possible significant role of some clinical factors in predicting cognitive outcome in a group of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients, with Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) lower than 8 and duration of unconsciousness for at least 15 days (prolonged coma).<br><br>METHOD: A consecutive sample of 25 survivors of severe TBI attending the Physical and Cognitive Rehabilitation program participated in this study. The neuropsychological test battery included: Word-list Learning, Prose recall, Rey Figure Delayed recall, Word fluency, Raven's Progressive Matrices' 47. The clinical variables evaluated in correlation with the neuropsychological outcome were the following: age, duration of unconsciousness, duration of post-traumatic amnesia, interval from head trauma to neuropsychological evaluation, interval from head trauma to recovery of oral feeding, and finally interval from head trauma to first verbal communication.<br><br>FINDINGS: The clinical variable with a significant predictive value on most neuropsychological scores was the interval from head trauma to the recovery of oral feeding.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: If this result is confirmed in larger samples, time interval of oral feeding recovery from head trauma should be considered as a possible predictor of neuropsychological outcome in TBI patients with prolonged coma.}, }
@article {pmid15116730, year = {2004}, author = {Ravens, U}, title = {[Life pictures. Ursula Ravens].}, journal = {Deutsche medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)}, volume = {129}, number = {15}, pages = {844}, pmid = {15116730}, issn = {0012-0472}, mesh = {Germany ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Pharmacology/*history ; }, }
@article {pmid15113445, year = {2004}, author = {,  and , }, title = {The Magpie Trial follow up study: outcome after discharge from hospital for women and children recruited to a trial comparing magnesium sulphate with placebo for pre-eclampsia [ISRCTN86938761].}, journal = {BMC pregnancy and childbirth}, volume = {4}, number = {1}, pages = {5}, pmid = {15113445}, issn = {1471-2393}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The Magpie Trial compared magnesium sulphate with placebo for women with pre-eclampsia. 10,141 women were recruited, 8804 before delivery. Overall, 9024 children were included in the analysis of outcome at discharge from hospital. Magnesium sulphate more than halved the risk of eclampsia, and probably reduced the risk of maternal death. There did not appear to be any substantive harmful effects on the baby, in the short term. It is now important to assess whether these benefits persist, and to provide adequate reassurance about longer term safety.The main objective of the Magpie Trial Follow Up Study is to assess whether in utero exposure to magnesium sulphate has a clinically important effect on the child's chance of surviving without major neurosensory disability. Other objectives are to assess long term outcome for the mother, and to develop and assess appropriate strategies for following up large numbers of children in perinatal trials. STUDY DESIGN: Follow up is only feasible in selected centres. We therefore anticipate contacting 2800-3350 families, for 2435-2915 of whom the woman was randomised before delivery. A further 280-335 children would have been eligible for follow up if they had survived. The total sample size for the children is therefore 3080-3685, 2680-3210 of whom will have been born to women randomised before delivery.Families eligible for the follow up will be contacted, and surviving children screened using the Ages and Stages Questionnaires. Children who screen positive, and a sample of those who screen negative, will whenever possible have a paediatric and neurodevelopmental assessment. When women are contacted to ask how their child is, they will also be asked about their own health. The primary outcome is a composite measure of death or neurosensory disability for the child at 18 months. DISCUSSION: The Follow Up Study began in 2002, and now involves collaborators in 19 countries. Data collection will close at the end of 2003.}, }
@article {pmid15109359, year = {2004}, author = {Freitag, FG and Lake, A and Lipton, R and Cady, R and Diamond, S and Silberstein, S and , }, title = {Inpatient treatment of headache: an evidence-based assessment.}, journal = {Headache}, volume = {44}, number = {4}, pages = {342-360}, doi = {10.1111/j.1526-4610.2004.04093.x}, pmid = {15109359}, issn = {0017-8748}, mesh = {Adult ; Ambulatory Care ; Chronic Disease ; *Evidence-Based Medicine ; Female ; Headache/*therapy ; Headache Disorders/economics/epidemiology/*therapy ; *Hospitalization ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Prevalence ; United States/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate inpatient treatment of headache in the United States.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: Participants were selected by the meeting chairpersons, Drs. Diamond and Silberstein as well as Dr. Freitag. Criteria for selection included participation in an inpatient treatment program, headache specialists not affiliated with an inpatient treatment program, clinician with interest in headache but not affiliated with a dedicated headache treatment program. The single meeting held in New York was by invitation only. All invitees were provided with opportunity to present their views and participate in the recommendations of the Consortium. The list of participants at the meeting were: Harvey Blumenthal, MD, Roger Cady, MD, James Couch, MD, Seymour Diamond, MD, Frederick G. Freitag, DO, R. Michael Gallagher, DO, Al Lake III, PhD, Richard Lipton, MD, NinanMathew,MD, Alan Rapoport, MD, Jay Rosenberg, MD, Joel Saper, MD, Stephen Silberstein, MD. Funding for theproject was provided by the US Headache Guidelines Consortium Project through the American Academy of Neurology and the National Headache Foundation.<br><br>EVIDENCE: Each of the authors were part of the writing committee each with specific areas that they were responsible for conducting the literature reviews and submitting a portion of the original document for editing and review. Dr. Freitag coordinated this process and assembled the first draft of the article for circulation and review among the authors and chairpersons. In the absence of class I evidence consensus expert opinion was fundamental to the process.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The treatment of headache is commonly delivered in the outpatient office environment. There exists a group of patients who have been refractive to outpatient treatment and in whom in patient care may be appropriate. The factors that determine the optimal treatment setting, the methodology of the treatment and the results of such treatment have come under increasing scrutiny secondary to the cost of treatment in the hospital. The US Headache Consortium guidelines project in conjunction with the national headache foundation believed that the need existed to objectively examine the issues surrounding inpatient treatment. The epidemiology of chronic headache is important to understand in this context since essentially all patients that are treated in hospital have high frequency headache often associated with significant disability. This severity of illness produces both health care costs but also is responsible for significant impact on businesses and the economy. The method of treatment of headache in the hospital environment can follow several paths based on the accessibility of the resources specific to headache treatment. While there exist these differing paths of treatment only treatment in a dedicated headache treatment unit has been investigated in depth here in the US though reports from other countries that do not have dedicated inpatient treatment lends support to options in headache treatment. Some have suggested that inpatient treatment is not required even in recidivist patients and limited reports have examined aggressive outpatient treatment as an option in headache management. None of the studies reported to date provide class one evidence for efficacy either inpatient or outpatient. Recommendations are made to assess headache treatment in patients with high frequency headaches to garner better scientific evidence for differing treatment approaches.}, }
@article {pmid15108902, year = {2004}, author = {Har-Shai, Y and Hirshowitz, B}, title = {Extended upper blepharoplasty for lateral hooding of the upper eyelid using a scalpel-shaped excision: a 13-year experience.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {113}, number = {3}, pages = {1028-35; discussion 1036}, doi = {10.1097/01.prs.0000105652.09882.b8}, pmid = {15108902}, issn = {0032-1052}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Blepharoplasty/*methods ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Excess skin of the upper lids is often accompanied by lateral overlap of skin with crow's feet because of the absence of fixation to the tarsal plate, giving the eye a sad, heavy look that often disturbs the lateral visual field. The accepted crescent-shaped blepharoplasty is somewhat convex, which is widest at the center of the lid with or without a lateral extension. However, in patients who have normal brow position or minimal eyebrow ptosis and whose main concern is the excess upper eyelid skin and lateral hooding, such a crescent excision may not suffice. A scalpel-shaped excision that is widest laterally and that tapers to a point medially will extirpate the maximal skin where it is most needed and overcome the skin excess in the lateral aspect of the upper lid. Between 1990 and 2002, 301 white patients (275 women and 26 men) between the ages of 33 and 79 years were operated on using the extended scalpel-shaped upper blepharoplasty technique. The follow-up period was more than 1 year. The lower margin of the incision is along the supratarsal crease, about 10 mm above the ciliary line. It begins medially about 1 cm above and lateral to the medial canthus. Above the lateral canthus, the skin marking is gently curved upward and outward, often within a natural skin crease or crow's feet to reach a little below and slightly beyond the lateral extremity of the eyebrow. The upper border of the incision joins the two extremities of the skin outline in a gentle convex curve. The general outline of the incision takes on the shape of a number 20 scalpel blade in which the maximal width is located laterally. Following excision of the excess skin and removal of protuberant fat pads if needed, suturing is executed from lateral to medial. The final suture line is in the form of an oblique flattened lazy S. Following the removal of the stitches on the fifth postoperative day, no wound dehiscence was noticed at the lateral scar zone. In the older individuals, due to the lax skin, the scar becomes scarcely noticeable with time and often falls within a pre-existent crow's feet crease. Elimination of some of the crow's feet was also demonstrated. In patients with visual field impairment, significant functional and visual improvement was achieved. Most patients mentioned a pleasing postoperative open "Oriental" look of the eyes. The extended scalpel-shaped upper blepharoplasty adequately deals with the hooding of the skin laterally. This technique overcomes the excess of skin in both vertical and horizontal directions, since in suturing the lateral part of the skin defect in an oblique plane, slack skin is taken up transversely, and the technique provides some indirect upward support to the lateral eyebrow. In the absence of crow's feet in the younger person, this technique is not recommended because the lateral part of this suture line is visible, especially if the scar widens.}, }
@article {pmid15101428, year = {2004}, author = {Hunt, GR and Gray, RD}, title = {The crafting of hook tools by wild New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {271 Suppl 3}, number = {Suppl 3}, pages = {S88-90}, pmid = {15101428}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Learning/*physiology ; Motor Skills/*physiology ; New Caledonia ; Plant Stems ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The 'crafting' of tools involves (i) selection of appropriate raw material, (ii) preparatory trimming and (iii) fine, three-dimensional sculpting. Its evolution is technologically important because it allows the open-ended development of tools. New Caledonian crows manufacture an impressive range of stick and leaf tools. We previously reported that their toolkit included hooked implements made from leafy twigs, although their manufacture had never been closely observed. We describe the manufacture of 10 hooked-twig tools by an adult crow and its dependent juvenile. To make all 10 tools, the crows carried out a relatively invariant three-step sequence of complex manipulations that involved (i) the selection of raw material, (ii) trimming and (iii) a lengthy sculpting of the hook. Hooked-twig manufacture contrasts with the lack of sculpting in the making of wooden tools by other non-humans such as chimpanzees and woodpecker finches. This fine, three-stage crafting process removes another alleged difference between humans and other animals.}, }
@article {pmid15098953, year = {2004}, author = {Mottron, L}, title = {Matching strategies in cognitive research with individuals with high-functioning autism: current practices, instrument biases, and recommendations.}, journal = {Journal of autism and developmental disorders}, volume = {34}, number = {1}, pages = {19-27}, pmid = {15098953}, issn = {0162-3257}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Asperger Syndrome/psychology ; Autistic Disorder/physiopathology/*psychology ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Control Groups ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Research Design ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {A meta-analysis was performed on the 133 cognitive and behavioral papers in autism using comparison groups in the 1999-2002 period. High-functioning (average IQ: 84.7), adolescents (average, 14.4 years) are largely dominant. IQ is the most frequent matching variable in use (51.2%). The instruments that are most frequently used to determine IQ or general level are Wechsler scales (46.9%), British Picture Vocabulary Scale (BPVS; 22.3%), and Raven Progressive Matrices (RPM; 16.9%). In order to determine if these instruments were equivalent when applied to individuals with pervasive developmental disorders (PDDs), Wechsler IQ, EVIP (a French Canadian translation of the BPVS), and RPM were given to a group of 14 individuals with autism and 12 with Asperger syndrome. Comparison of Wechsler and RPM IQs values, expressed as percentiles, to percentile values of EVIP score revealed that EVIP (and to a lesser extent RPM) considerably overestimates the level of all PDD participants as compared to Wechsler Verbal IQ (VIQ), Performance IQ (PIQ), or Full-Scale IQ (FSIQ), whereas these instruments are reported to be strongly correlated in typically developing individuals. This study reveals that identification of objects from a verbal label--the BPVS-PPVT-EVIP task--is a peak of ability in high functioning individuals with PDDs. This peak of ability, even superior to that of block design, has a detrimental effect on matching based on this instrument. A recommendation to replace BPVS/PPVT/EVIP or RPM by Wechsler scale as a basis of IQ/level matching is provided. Accordingly, the former instruments are a potential source of type-1 (for cognitive deficits) or type-2 (for cognitive hyperfunctioning) errors.}, }
@article {pmid15093926, year = {2004}, author = {Pawlicki, T and Luxton, G and Le, QT and Findley, D and Ma, CM}, title = {Lens dose in MLC-based IMRT treatments of the head and neck.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {59}, number = {1}, pages = {293-299}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijrobp.2004.01.019}, pmid = {15093926}, issn = {0360-3016}, mesh = {Calibration ; Head and Neck Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Humans ; Lens, Crystalline/*radiation effects ; Phantoms, Imaging ; Radiation Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: The objectives of this work are: (1) to determine typical dose to the lens during step-and-shoot intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) treatments of the head and neck, and (2) to report on the dose calculation accuracy of a commercial inverse planning system in predicting lens dose.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: The Corvus inverse treatment planning system (Nomos, Cranberry Township, PA) was used to plan IMRT treatments for patients with head-and-neck cancers in our clinic. Patients were treated on Varian C-series linacs (Varian, Palo Alto, CA) with 4-MV or 6-MV X-rays. A Rando phantom (Alderson Laboratories, Stamford, CT) was specially modified to accommodate 1 x 1 x 1 mm(3) thermoluminescent dosimeters at the position of the lens. The IMRT treatment plans were then delivered to the modified Rando phantom. The thermoluminescent dosimeter measurements were converted to dose and taken as an estimate of the lens dose. A total of 20 cases were used in this study (15 cases with 4 MV and 5 cases with 6 MV).<br><br>RESULTS: Expressed as a percentage of the prescription dose, the mean dose to the left and right lens for all 4-MV cases was 9.1% (range, 2.0% to 61.3%). For the 6-MV cases, the mean dose to the left and right lens was 12.8% (range, 3.6% to 41.3%). For both the 4-MV and 6-MV cases, the case of maximum dose occurred when the IMRT treatment target included volumes superior to the level of the lens. The field size and number of monitor units did not correlate with the measured lens dose. The only factor of significance affecting lens dose was the inferior-to-superior distance of the target to the lens. For target-lens distance >/=6 mm, the maximum measured lens doses were 5.9% and 9.0% relative to the prescribed dose for the 4-MV and 6-MV beams, respectively. These data are similar to those observed in conventional head-and-neck treatments. For all cases, the difference between the dose measured and that predicted by Corvus was less than 2% and 4% of the dose prescribed to the gross tumor volume for the 4-MV and 6-MV cases, respectively.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In IMRT, factors such as leaf leakage and number of monitor units play a secondary role and are not more significant than what is observed in conventional head-and-neck treatment when the lens is shielded by the collimator jaws. The target-lens distance is the parameter that affects the lens dose most strongly. For cases where the tumor is at or above the level of the lens, the lens dose can amount to an appreciable fraction of the prescription dose. To keep the lens dose to a minimum, noncoplanar beams that enter or exit into the lens should not be used.}, }
@article {pmid15085469, year = {2004}, author = {Messmore, HL and Wehrmacher, WH and Coyne, E and Fareed, J}, title = {Heparin to pentasaccharide and beyond: the end is not in sight.}, journal = {Seminars in thrombosis and hemostasis}, volume = {30 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {81-88}, doi = {10.1055/s-2004-823006}, pmid = {15085469}, issn = {0094-6176}, mesh = {Heparin/adverse effects/history/*therapeutic use ; Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight/therapeutic use ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Humans ; Oligosaccharides/history/*therapeutic use ; Thromboembolism/drug therapy/prevention &amp; control ; }, abstract = {The 87-year history of heparin began in 1916 when a 26-year-old medical student named Jay McLean startled his mentor William Howell, Professor of Physiology at Johns Hopkins University, by proclaiming that he had discovered "antithrombin." This discovery was so surprising to Howell because he had expected McLean to isolate thromboplastin, a clot-promoting substance from animal tissue. In 1928, Charles Best, M.D., in Toronto, Canada, organized a team of chemists, physiologists, and surgeons to focus on the development of heparin. This group determined which animal tissues were the best source, had performed purification and identification, and had determined pharmacologic properties in vitro. By 1935, they were ready for human trials. By 1941, the group reported a series of 700 patients treated with the glycosaminoglycan called heparin. Meanwhile a critical cofactor, antithrombin, had been discovered at the University of Iowa (Brinkhous, et al). Introduction of newer tests for laboratory monitoring enabled refinement of dosages during the 1960s and 1970s. Its use permitted the development of hemodialysis and cardiopulmonary bypass surgery, and the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis in surgical patients. The concept of low-molecular-weight heparin occurred to Dr. Choay and others in France in the late 1970s. During the 1980s and 1990s, the development of low-molecular-weight heparins evolved for both prophylaxis and therapy. The first synthetic product was called the pentasaccharide, named for the five critical sugar units in heparin that bind to antithrombin (1983). Since then, this drug has been studied extensively to prove its clinical efficacy and safety.}, }
@article {pmid15072266, year = {2003}, author = {Stiefelhagen, P}, title = {[Botulinum: fashionable drug and effective medication. What the "miracle weapon against crow's feet" can do in addition].}, journal = {MMW Fortschritte der Medizin}, volume = {145}, number = {14}, pages = {4-6}, pmid = {15072266}, issn = {1438-3276}, mesh = {Adult ; Blepharospasm/*drug therapy ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Child ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Dystonia/*drug therapy ; Headache/*drug therapy ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Middle Aged ; Migraine Disorders/*drug therapy ; Neuromuscular Agents/administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Pain/*drug therapy ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Spasm/therapy ; Torticollis/drug therapy ; }, }
@article {pmid15069612, year = {2004}, author = {Chappell, J and Kacelnik, A}, title = {Selection of tool diameter by New Caledonian crows Corvus moneduloides.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {121-127}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-003-0202-y}, pmid = {15069612}, issn = {1435-9448}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; *Choice Behavior ; Discrimination Learning ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Functional Laterality ; *Manufactured Materials ; *Plant Leaves ; *Problem Solving ; *Songbirds ; Technology ; }, abstract = {One important element of complex and flexible tool use, particularly where tool manufacture is involved, is the ability to select or manufacture appropriate tools anticipating the needs of any given task-an ability that has been rarely tested in non-primates. We examine aspects of this ability in New Caledonian crows-a species known to be extraordinary tool users and manufacturers. In a 2002 study, Chappell and Kacelnik showed that these crows were able to select a tool of the appropriate length for a task among a set of different lengths, and in 2002, Weir, Chappell and Kacelnik showed that New Caledonian crows were able to shape unfamiliar materials to create a usable tool for a specific task. Here we examine their handling of tool diameter. In experiment 1, we show that when facing three loose sticks that were usable as tools, they preferred the thinnest one. When the three sticks were presented so that one was loose and the other two in a bundle, they only disassembled the bundle when their preferred tool was tied. In experiment 2, we show that they manufacture, and modify during use, a tool of a suitable diameter from a tree branch, according to the diameter of the hole through which the tool will have to be inserted. These results add to the developing picture of New Caledonian crows as sophisticated tool users and manufacturers, having an advanced level of folk physics.}, }
@article {pmid15069611, year = {2004}, author = {Hunt, GR and Gray, RD}, title = {Direct observations of pandanus-tool manufacture and use by a New Caledonian crow (Corvus moneduloides).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {114-120}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-003-0200-0}, pmid = {15069611}, issn = {1435-9448}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Discrimination Learning ; *Feeding Behavior ; *Functional Laterality ; Manufactured Materials ; *Plant Leaves ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian crows are reported to have impressive pandanus-tool manufacture abilities. These claims are based on an extensive artefact record. However, inferring behavioural and cognitive abilities without direct observation of tool manufacture is problematic. Here we report (and document on video) direct observations of a crow making and using stepped pandanus tools at Pic Ningua. We observed (1) a bias for making tools on left edges consistent with that previously found at the site, (2) faithful manufacture of a stepped design with high overall congruence in the shapes of tools, (3) the use of convergent rips to first form the tapered end working away from the trunk then the wide end working towards the trunk, (4) appropriate functional use of stepped tools by use of the leaf-edge barbs to hook food from holes, and (5) consistent holding of tools on the left side of its head when using them. Our observations verify most of the claims based on the artefact record, but the crow's exact manufacture technique was slightly different to that inferred previously.}, }
@article {pmid15069605, year = {2004}, author = {Bugnyar, T and Kotrschal, K}, title = {Leading a conspecific away from food in ravens (Corvus corax)?.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {69-76}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-003-0189-4}, pmid = {15069605}, issn = {1435-9448}, mesh = {Animals ; *Association Learning ; Behavior, Animal ; Competitive Behavior ; *Deception ; *Dominance-Subordination ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Food ; Male ; *Problem Solving ; Social Environment ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {Active misleading of conspecifics has been described as a social strategy mainly for primates. Here we report a raven leading a competitor away from food in a social foraging task. Four individuals had to search and compete for hidden food at color-marked clusters of artificial food caches. At the beginning of the experiment, a subordinate male found and exploited the majority of the food. As a result, the dominant male displaced him from the already opened boxes. The subordinate male then developed a pattern, when the loss of reward to the dominant got high, of moving to unrewarded clusters and opening boxes there. This diversion often led the dominant to approach those unrewarded clusters and the subordinate then had a head start for exploiting the rewarded boxes. Subsequently, however, the dominant male learned not to follow the subordinate to unrewarded clusters and eventually started searching for the reward himself. These interactions between the two males illustrate the ravens' potential for deceptively manipulating conspecifics. We discuss under which circumstances ravens might use this capacity.}, }
@article {pmid15061621, year = {2004}, author = {Azambuja, MI}, title = {Spanish flu and early 20th-century expansion of a coronary heart disease-prone subpopulation.}, journal = {Texas Heart Institute journal}, volume = {31}, number = {1}, pages = {14-21}, pmid = {15061621}, issn = {0730-2347}, mesh = {Cohort Studies ; Coronary Disease/etiology/history/*mortality ; Disease Outbreaks/*history ; Epidemiologic Studies ; Female ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Influenza, Human/complications/history/*mortality ; Male ; Population Surveillance ; Risk Factors ; United States/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {According to Stephen Jay Gould, "we have a strong preference for seeing trends as entities moving somewhere." However, trends may instead be the product of relative expansions and contractions of different subpopulations constituting the system. Variation in attributes of coronary heart disease cases during the decline in coronary heart disease mortality suggests a change in the primary source-subpopulation of cases over time. It is proposed that an early 20th-century expansion of a coronary heart disease-prone subpopulation, characterized by high serum-cholesterol phenotype and high case-fatality--which contributed to most of the coronary heart disease cases and deaths during the 1960s--may have been a late result of the 1918 influenza pandemic. The same unusual immune response to infection that in 1918 killed preferentially men, whites, and those born from 1880 to 1900 (20-40 years old) may have "primed" survivors of those birth cohorts to late coronary heart disease mortality. Ecologic evidence in favor of a birth cohort and geographic association between both epidemics is presented. Cross-reactive auto-immune response upon reinfection could explain the excess coronary heart disease deaths reported during influenza epidemics from the late 1920s onward. Mimicry between the viral hemagglutinin and the apolipoprotein B or the low-density lipoprotein receptor could be the link between infection and hypercholesterolemia. The extinction of those birth cohorts would result in a relative increase in cases coming from a 2nd subpopulation, which was characterized by insulin resistance and chronic expression of low-grade inflammation markers and was comparatively less vulnerable to die acutely from coronary heart disease.}, }
@article {pmid15061281, year = {2004}, author = {Garvin, MC and Tarvin, KA and Stark, LM and Woolfenden, GE and Fitzpatrick, JW and Day, JF}, title = {Arboviral infection in two species of wild jays (Aves: Corvidae): evidence for population impacts.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {41}, number = {2}, pages = {215-225}, doi = {10.1603/0022-2585-41.2.215}, pmid = {15061281}, issn = {0022-2585}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/virology ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Arbovirus Infections/epidemiology/*veterinary ; Arboviruses/classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; Encephalitis Virus, Eastern Equine/*isolation &amp; purification ; Encephalomyelitis, Eastern Equine/epidemiology/veterinary ; Hemagglutination Inhibition Tests/veterinary ; Population Density ; Songbirds/*virology ; United States/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {We examined the prevalence of antibodies to three mosquito-borne arboviruses in blue jays, Cyanocitta cristata, and Florida scrub-jays, Aphelocoma coerulescens, to identify the effects on host survival, the influence of sex and age on infection, and the temporal patterns of antibody prevalence. Blood samples from 306 blue jays and 219 Florida scrub-jays were collected at Archbold Biological Station (Lake Placid, FL) from April 1994 through December 1995. Sera were analyzed for hemagglutination-inhibition antibody to eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and St. Louis encephalitis (SLE) viruses, and neutralizing antibodies to EEE, Highlands J (HJ), and SLE viruses. Overall, 31.4% of blue jay samples and 22.1% of scrub-jay samples had antibodies to EEE. Antibodies to HJ were detected in slightly >15% of samples in each jay species, and SLE was detected in <3% of the samples in each jay species. A single EEE virus isolation was made from the blood of an 11-d-old scrub-jay nestling. Survival of adult blue jays seropositive to EEE was significantly lower than that of seronegative birds based on resight rates, but infection did not seem to affect survival of adult or juvenile Florida scrub-jays.}, }
@article {pmid15037841, year = {2004}, author = {Lagueny, A and Bouillot, S and Vital, C and Ferrer, X and Larrieu, JM and Vital, A}, title = {[POEMS syndrome (or Crow-Fukase syndrome)].}, journal = {Revue neurologique}, volume = {160}, number = {3}, pages = {285-295}, doi = {10.1016/s0035-3787(04)70903-0}, pmid = {15037841}, issn = {0035-3787}, mesh = {Humans ; *POEMS Syndrome/complications/diagnosis/etiology/therapy ; }, abstract = {POEMS is an acronym for polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M-protein and skin changes. POEMS syndrome is also called Crow-Fukase syndrome, chiefly in Japan. The 5 above mentioned features are not always present at the first examination. The minimal criteria to establish the diagnosis are the presence of a demyelinating and axonal polyneuropathy associated with an IgA or IgG monoclonal gammopathy, the light chain being almost always lambda, and at least 2 of the 8 other features: sclerosing plasmocytoma, endocrinopathy, skin changes, organomegaly, Castleman's disease, anasarca, papillary edema or thrombocytosis. Among these features, only cutaneous glomeruloid angioma are specific. Ultrastructural identification of uncompacted myelin lamellae on the peripheral nerve biopsy is also a strong argument in favor of the diagnosis. An associated "osteosclerotic" bone lesion must be carefully searched, because its treatment may improve the other features of the syndrome, especially the neuropathy. Cytokines and the vascular growth endothelial factor might play a role in the pathogenesis of this rare multisystemic disorder.}, }
@article {pmid15036932, year = {2004}, author = {Brüne, M}, title = {Schizophrenia-an evolutionary enigma?.}, journal = {Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews}, volume = {28}, number = {1}, pages = {41-53}, doi = {10.1016/j.neubiorev.2003.10.002}, pmid = {15036932}, issn = {0149-7634}, mesh = {Adaptation, Biological/*genetics ; *Biological Evolution ; Brain/*physiopathology ; Dominance, Cerebral/genetics ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease ; Heterozygote ; Humans ; *Psychological Theory ; Schizophrenia/*genetics ; }, abstract = {The term 'schizophrenia' refers to a group of disorders that have been described in every human culture. Two apparently well established findings have corroborated the need for an evolutionary explanation of these disorders: (1) cross-culturally stable incidence rates and (2) decreased fecundity of the affected individuals. The rationale behind this relates to the evolutionary paradox that susceptibility genes for schizophrenia are obviously preserved in the human genepool, despite fundamental reproductive disadvantages associated with the disorders. Some researchers have therefore proposed that a compensatory advantage must exist in people who are carriers of these genes or in their first-degree relatives. Such advantages were hypothesised to be outside the brain (e.g. greater resistance against toxins or infectious diseases), or within the social domain (e.g. schizotypal shamans, creativity). More specifically, T.J. Crow has suggested an evolutionary theory of schizophrenia that relates the disorders to an extreme of variation of hemispheric specialisation and the evolution of language due to a single gene mutation located on homologous regions of the sex chromosomes. None of the evolutionary scenarios does, however, fully account for the diversity of the symptomatology, nor does any one hypothesis acknowledge the objection that the mere prevalence of a disorder must not be confused with adaptation. In the present article, I therefore discuss the evolutionary hypotheses of schizophrenia, arguing that a symptom-based approach to psychotic disorders in evolutionary perspective may improve upon the existing models of schizophrenia.}, }
@article {pmid15036846, year = {2004}, author = {Adams, EJ and Convery, DJ and Cosgrove, VP and McNair, HA and Staffurth, JN and Vaarkamp, J and Nutting, CM and Warrington, AP and Webb, S and Balyckyi, J and Dearnaley, DP}, title = {Clinical implementation of dynamic and step-and-shoot IMRT to treat prostate cancer with high risk of pelvic lymph node involvement.}, journal = {Radiotherapy and oncology : journal of the European Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology}, volume = {70}, number = {1}, pages = {1-10}, doi = {10.1016/j.radonc.2003.09.004}, pmid = {15036846}, issn = {0167-8140}, mesh = {Humans ; Lymph Nodes/*pathology ; Male ; Pelvis ; Prostatic Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Quality Assurance, Health Care ; Radiotherapy/methods ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Reproducibility of Results ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Two systems have been developed for treating patients with locally advanced prostate cancer using intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT): one using dynamic multi-leaf collimator delivery and the other using step-and-shoot. This paper describes the clinical implementation of these two techniques, and presents results from the first 14 patients treated in a clinical setting (nine dynamic, five step-and-shoot).<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: Dynamic treatments were planned using Corvus, and step-and-shoot using Helax-TMS; all were delivered using Elekta accelerators. Prior to the first clinical treatments, validation measurements were carried out for each system, including measurements for a complete IMRT treatment. The reproducibility of dynamic delivery and the characteristics of the accelerator for low-monitor-unit (MU) deliveries were also assessed. An extensive quality assurance (QA) program was performed for each of the patients. Additionally, timing measurements were carried out to assess the practicalities of the technique.<br><br>RESULTS: The planning objectives were met in most cases. Absolute doses for complete IMRT treatments were within 2%, on average, with dose distributions generally showing agreement within 3% or 3 mm. Beam modulation measurements made throughout each patient's treatment indicated that both delivery methods were reproducible. The dynamic plans required an average of 765 MU per beam, with a treatment delivery time of 14 min; corresponding results for step-and-shoot plans were 105 MU and 10 min.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Two IMRT techniques for this group of patients have been successfully implemented in the clinic. The more complex dynamic treatments showed no advantages over the step-and-shoot approach. QA results have shown accurate and reproducible delivery for both techniques, giving increased confidence in the techniques and allowing a reduction in the QA program.}, }
@article {pmid15025147, year = {2004}, author = {Austin, RJ and Whiting, TL and Anderson, RA and Drebot, MA}, title = {An outbreak of West Nile virus-associated disease in domestic geese (Anser anser domesticus) upon initial introduction to a geographic region, with evidence of bird to bird transmission.}, journal = {The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne}, volume = {45}, number = {2}, pages = {117-123}, pmid = {15025147}, issn = {0008-5286}, mesh = {Animals ; Cohort Studies ; Disease Outbreaks/*veterinary ; Disease Transmission, Infectious/veterinary ; Female ; *Geese ; Male ; Manitoba/epidemiology ; Poultry Diseases/*epidemiology/transmission ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; Songbirds/virology ; Viremia/veterinary ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/transmission/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus activity in Manitoba was documented for the first time by the collection of an infected crow found on July 8, 2002, in Winnipeg. West Nile virus was identified as the cause of death for a large number of domestic geese at a single farm in southern Manitoba in August. Of the 5 differently aged cohorts on the affected farm, which included 2 breeding flocks and 3 growing flocks, the 6-week-old cohort was most severely affected with 692 of 2731 goslings dying within a 10-day period. Seroprevalence of West Nile virus in 2 clinically affected and recovered juvenile cohorts was 98% and 100%. In breeding geese without clinical disease, seroprevalence was 90% for 15-month-old birds and 10% for 5-year-old birds. Seroreaction in 3 of 4 cohorts tested exceeded what would be expected by mosquito transmission alone.}, }
@article {pmid15018775, year = {2004}, author = {Apperson, CS and Hassan, HK and Harrison, BA and Savage, HM and Aspen, SE and Farajollahi, A and Crans, W and Daniels, TJ and Falco, RC and Benedict, M and Anderson, M and McMillen, L and Unnasch, TR}, title = {Host feeding patterns of established and potential mosquito vectors of West Nile virus in the eastern United States.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {4}, number = {1}, pages = {71-82}, pmid = {15018775}, issn = {1530-3667}, support = {R01 AI049724/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI049724-04/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01-AI49724/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/parasitology/virology ; Birds/parasitology/virology ; Culicidae/classification/*physiology/*virology ; Disease Reservoirs/veterinary ; Feeding Behavior ; Host-Parasite Interactions ; Humans ; Insect Vectors/classification/*physiology/*virology ; Mammals/parasitology/virology ; New Jersey/epidemiology ; New York/epidemiology ; Tennessee/epidemiology ; United States/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*transmission ; West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {An important variable in determining the vectorial capacity of mosquito species for arthropod-borne infections is the degree of contact of the vector and the vertebrate reservoir. This parameter can be estimated by examining the host-feeding habits of vectors. Serological and polymerase chain reaction based methods have been used to study the host-feedings patterns of 21 mosquito species from New York, New Jersey, and Tennessee, 19 of which previously have been found infected with West Nile virus. Mammalophilic mosquito species in New Jersey and New York fed primarily upon white-tailed deer, while those from Memphis, Tennessee, fed mainly upon domestic dogs. A total of 24 different avian host species were detected among the avian-derived blood meals. American Robin, Northern Cardinal, Northern Mockingbird, Tufted Titmouse, and Brown-headed Cowbird were common avian hosts, while blood meals derived from the American Crow were relatively rare. Although the majority of common host species were potentially among the most abundant birds at each location, the proportion of blood meals from the most commonly fed upon avian species was greater than was predicted based upon the likely abundance of these species alone. These findings suggest that vector species for West Nile virus may preferentially feed upon certain avian hosts.}, }
@article {pmid15008861, year = {2004}, author = {Carruthers, J and Carruthers, A}, title = {The effect of full-face broadband light treatments alone and in combination with bilateral crow's feet Botulinum toxin type A chemodenervation.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {355-66; discussion 366}, doi = {10.1111/j.1524-4725.2004.30101.x}, pmid = {15008861}, issn = {1076-0512}, mesh = {Adult ; *Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; *Light ; Middle Aged ; *Neuromuscular Agents ; Prospective Studies ; Skin Aging/*drug effects/*radiation effects ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Broadband light (BBL; Intense Pulsed Light; Lumenis Ltd., Yokneam, Israel) is a powerful, nonablative, light-based technology that targets melanin and hemoglobin and stimulates the formation of collagen and elastin. Botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A; BOTOX; Allergan Inc., Irvine, CA) treatment of the lateral periocular region relaxes the vertical fibers of the orbicularis oculi and results in softening of the lateral orbital crow's feet rhytides and widening of the palpebral aperture.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of full-face BBL in combination with BTX-A and BBL alone in female subjects with Fitzpatrick I-III skin types, Glogau II-III rhytides, and significant associated facial lentigines and telangiectasia.<br><br>METHODS: This was a prospective, randomized study of 30 women with moderate to severe crow's feet rhytides. Half of the subjects were treated with BTX-A and BBL and the other half with BBL alone. Their response was assessed clinically and photographically. Skin biopsies of the temporal skin were taken from two subjects in each group and were stained with Masson trichrome.<br><br>RESULTS: Patients treated with a combination of BTX-A and BBL experienced a better response to treatment, both at rest and on maximum smile, as well as a slightly improved response in associated lentigines, telangiectasia, pore size, and facial skin texture compared with patients who received BBL treatment alone. Skin biopsies showed an increase in dermal collagen in each group.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The patients in this study benefited from both treatments. Although BBL led to a remarkable improvement in full-face telangiectasias, lentigines, and skin texture, the improvement increased in all categories with combination therapy. In addition, an added improvement in the full-face aesthetic with both BTX-A and BBL therapy combined was obvious. These results suggest that both treatments--although evidently complementary--may also act synergistically to produce optimal clinical effects, revolutionizing the treatment of facial aging.}, }
@article {pmid15008843, year = {2004}, author = {Baba, T and Østerby, R and Neugebauer-Baba, S and Nozawa, Y and Watanabe, T and Sakurai, K and Katoh, T and Watanabe, T}, title = {No nephropathy in Type 2 diabetic patient with POEMS syndrome with an elevated plasma VEGF.}, journal = {Diabetic medicine : a journal of the British Diabetic Association}, volume = {21}, number = {3}, pages = {292-294}, doi = {10.1111/j.1464-5491.2004.01094.x}, pmid = {15008843}, issn = {0742-3071}, mesh = {Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/blood/*complications/diagnosis ; Diabetic Nephropathies/*diagnosis ; Humans ; Kidney/pathology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/blood/*complications/pathology ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/*blood ; }, abstract = {Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is considered to have a role in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy. Recent experimental observations that anti-VEGF neutralizing antibody fully abolished the hyperfiltration and the increase in urinary albumin excretion suggested the contribution of VEGF to the development of diabetic nephropathy, as well. Here, we present a case of POEMS (Crow-Fukase) syndrome with Type 2 diabetes, which was associated with elevated plasma VEGF level, but no sign of diabetic nephropathy. The findings obtained from this case did not support the hypothesis that VEGF may enhance the development of diabetic nephropathy.}, }
@article {pmid15004034, year = {2004}, author = {Gustafsson, AB and Tsai, JG and Logue, SE and Crow, MT and Gottlieb, RA}, title = {Apoptosis repressor with caspase recruitment domain protects against cell death by interfering with Bax activation.}, journal = {The Journal of biological chemistry}, volume = {279}, number = {20}, pages = {21233-21238}, doi = {10.1074/jbc.M400695200}, pmid = {15004034}, issn = {0021-9258}, support = {R01 HL 60590/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Apoptosis/*physiology ; Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins ; *Caspase Inhibitors ; Cell Death/*physiology ; Cell Line ; Creatine Kinase/metabolism ; Cytochromes c/metabolism ; Muscle Proteins/*metabolism ; Myocardial Infarction/enzymology/prevention &amp; control ; Myocardium/metabolism ; Proto-Oncogene Proteins/*metabolism ; *Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2 ; Rats ; Recombinant Fusion Proteins/metabolism ; bcl-2-Associated X Protein ; }, abstract = {Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) is associated with an extensive loss of myocardial cells. The apoptosis repressor with caspase recruitment domain (ARC) is a protein that is highly expressed in heart and skeletal muscle and has been demonstrated to protect the heart against I/R injury (Gustafsson, A. B., Sayen, M. R., Williams, S. D., Crow, M. T., and Gottlieb, R. A. (2002) Circulation 106, 735-739). In this study, we have shown that transduction of TAT-ARCL31F, a mutant of ARC in the caspase recruitment domain, did not reduce creatine kinase release and infarct size after I/R. TAT-ARCL31F also failed to protect against hydrogen peroxide-mediated cell death in H9c2 cells, suggesting that the caspase recruitment domain is important in mediating ARC's protective effects. In addition, we report that ARC co-immunoprecipitated with the pro-apoptotic protein Bax, which causes cytochrome c release when activated. TAT-ARC, but not TAT-ARCL31F, prevented Bax activation and cytochrome c release in hydrogen peroxide-treated H9c2 cells. TAT-ARC was also effective in blocking cytochrome c release after ischemia and reperfusion, whereas TAT-ARCL31F had no effect on cytochrome c release. In addition, recombinant ARC protein abrogated Bax-induced cytochrome c release from isolated mitochondria. This suggests that ARC can protect against cell death by interfering with activation of the mitochondrial death pathway through the interaction with Bax, preventing mitochondrial dysfunction and release of pro-apoptotic factors.}, }
@article {pmid15002657, year = {2004}, author = {Edison, BL and Green, BA and Wildnauer, RH and Sigler, ML}, title = {A polyhydroxy acid skin care regimen provides antiaging effects comparable to an alpha-hydroxyacid regimen.}, journal = {Cutis}, volume = {73}, number = {2 Suppl}, pages = {14-17}, pmid = {15002657}, issn = {0011-4162}, mesh = {Adult ; Cosmetics ; Female ; Gluconates/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Humans ; Hydroxy Acids/pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Lactones ; Middle Aged ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; *Skin Care ; Skin Diseases/drug therapy ; Skin Irritancy Tests ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {There have been numerous clinical studies conducted to evaluate the beneficial effects of the polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) in skincare. Although there is significant evidence that PHAs provide antiaging effects to skin, a direct comparison between alpha-hydroxyacids (AHAs) and PHAs for these effects has not been conducted. This 12-week clinical study evaluated gluconolactone-containing products (PHAs) in comparison with glycolic acid-containing products (AHAs). Clinical grading of photoaging, as well as objective and subjective irritation, was conducted on the face at baseline and after 6 and 12 weeks of product use. Pinch recoil, silicone replicas of the crow's-feet area, and self-assessment of product efficacy and tolerance were also collected. Both regimens showed significant antiaging benefits to skin as measured by silicone replicas, clinical grading, and pinch recoil for skin resiliency. There were only 2 statistically significant (P < .05) differences between the regimens in antiaging benefits: (1) sallowness showed greater improvement with AHA use at week 12 only (AHA, 17. 1%; PHA, 12.4%), and (2) pinch recoil showed greater improvement with AHA use at week 12 only (AHA, 13.5%; PHA, 10.2%). Irritation grading and subject self-assessment showed that the PHA regimen was better tolerated than the AHA regimen. Stinging and burning were significantly worse for subjects in the AHA treatment group at both week 6 and 12, and degree of sensitivity was rated worse for the AHA regimen as well. The present study shows the enhanced mildness of PHAs and their equivalence in providing antiaging benefits compared with an AHA regimen.}, }
@article {pmid14995084, year = {2004}, author = {Wicksell, RK and Kihlgren, M and Melin, L and Eeg-Olofsson, O}, title = {Specific cognitive deficits are common in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.}, journal = {Developmental medicine and child neurology}, volume = {46}, number = {3}, pages = {154-159}, doi = {10.1017/s0012162204000283}, pmid = {14995084}, issn = {0012-1622}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention ; Auditory Perceptual Disorders/diagnosis/psychology ; Child ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/psychology ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term ; Muscular Dystrophy, Duchenne/*diagnosis/psychology ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Orientation ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Perceptual Disorders/diagnosis/psychology ; Problem Solving ; Psychometrics ; Psychomotor Disorders/diagnosis/psychology ; Reference Values ; Speech Perception ; }, abstract = {A neuropsychological assessment was conducted to study cognition, with emphasis on memory, information processing/learning ability, and executive functions in boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). A group of 20 boys with DMD, aged 7 to 14 years (mean age 9 years 5 months, SD 2 years 2 months), was contrasted with 17 normally developing age-matched comparison individuals, using specific neuropsychological tests (Block Span, Digit Span, Story Recall, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Rey Complex Figure Test, Spatial Learning Test, Verbal Fluency, Trail Making Test, Tower of London, Memory for Faces, and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices). The DMD group performed significantly worse on all aspects of memory, learning, and executive functions. There was no significant difference in general intellectual ability between the two groups. Analyses of group differences indicate that problems in short-term memory are the most apparent, suggesting specific cognitive deficits. The differences between the groups were similar for both verbal-auditory and visuospatial tests, thus contradicting the idea that cognitive deficits are related to type of stimulus presented. It is concluded from this study that short-term memory deficits might play a critical role in the cognitive impairment and intellectual development seen in those with DMD.}, }
@article {pmid14983288, year = {2002}, author = {Wang, H}, title = {[Causes and management of gingival coloration caused by metal ceramic crows].}, journal = {Shanghai kou qiang yi xue = Shanghai journal of stomatology}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, pages = {115-117}, pmid = {14983288}, issn = {1006-7248}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To analyse the marginal gingival coloration caused by metal based ceramic crowns in 28 patients,and to explore the methods to remove or reduce this abnormal coloration.<br><br>METHODS: 28 patients with metal based ceramic crowns developed gingival coforation. The period of wearing crowns ranged from 2 weeks to 3 years. To remove or reduce gingival coloration,the original metal based ceramic crowns were discarded. Temporary plastic crowns were utilized for 2 weeks. The cervical ceramic approach was used for rehabilitation,or the abutments were re-prepared for metal based ceramic crowns.<br><br>RESULTS: At the end of follow up,gingival coloration disappeared in patients managed with cervical ceramic approach. While in patients managed with second metal crowns, gingival coloration was improved greatly.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Gingiral coloration can be removed or reduced by cervical ceramic approach or re-fabrication of metal based ceramic crowns.}, }
@article {pmid14979104, year = {2003}, author = {Giorgianni, C and Faranda, M and Brecciaroli, R and Beninato, G and Saffioti, G and Muraca, G and Congia, P and Catanoso, R and Agostani, G and Abbate, C}, title = {[Cognitive disorders among welders exposed to aluminum].}, journal = {Giornale italiano di medicina del lavoro ed ergonomia}, volume = {25 Suppl}, number = {3}, pages = {102-103}, pmid = {14979104}, issn = {1592-7830}, mesh = {Adult ; Aluminum/*toxicity ; Cognition Disorders/*chemically induced ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Occupational Exposure/*adverse effects ; *Welding ; }, abstract = {In order to evaluate the relationship between exposure to aluminum and cognitive functions, a group of 50 aluminum welders underwent to the following neuropsychological tests: Wechsler Memory Scale, Color-Word Test and Raven Progressives Matrices test. The results of the tests showed a reduction of memory, of concentration and a slight reduction of attention. The authors conclude that aluminum exposure leads cognitive changes.}, }
@article {pmid14971686, year = {2004}, author = {Ebenso, IE}, title = {Molluscicidal effects of neem (Azadirachta indica) extracts on edible tropical land snails.}, journal = {Pest management science}, volume = {60}, number = {2}, pages = {178-182}, doi = {10.1002/ps.810}, pmid = {14971686}, issn = {1526-498X}, mesh = {Animals ; Azadirachta/*chemistry ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Molluscacides/*toxicity ; Plant Bark/chemistry ; Plant Extracts/administration &amp; dosage/*toxicity ; Plant Leaves/chemistry ; Plant Roots/chemistry ; Snails/*drug effects/growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {The effects of 350, 500 and 700 mg kg(-1) of crude extracts of neem, Azadirachta indica A Juss, on edible tropical land snails Archachatina marginata and Limicolaria aurora (Jay) were determined and compared with control using pawpaw, Carica papaya L as bait. Responses were measured through normal feeding, cessation of food intake, cessation of crawling, mucus secretion, lack of response to mechanical stimuli (mortality) and decomposition. Results showed no effects on the controls or snails exposed to neem seed oil extract. Crude extracts of bark, root and leaf of neem at 500 and 700 mg kg(-1) produced mortality after exposure for 48 h for L aurora and 72 h for A marginata.}, }
@article {pmid14970927, year = {2004}, author = {Luttbeg, B and Langen, TA}, title = {Comparing alternative models to empirical data: cognitive models of western scrub-jay foraging behavior.}, journal = {The American naturalist}, volume = {163}, number = {2}, pages = {263-276}, doi = {10.1086/381319}, pmid = {14970927}, issn = {0003-0147}, mesh = {Animals ; Bayes Theorem ; California ; Cognition/*physiology ; *Decision Theory ; *Feeding Behavior ; Likelihood Functions ; *Models, Biological ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Animals often select one item from a set of candidates, as when choosing a foraging site or mate, and are expected to possess accurate and efficient rules for acquiring information and making decisions. Little is known, however, about the decision rules animals use. We compare patterns of information sampling by western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) when choosing a nut with three decision rules: best of n (BN), flexible threshold (FT), and comparative Bayes (CB). First, we use a null hypothesis testing approach and find that the CB decision rule, in which individuals use past experiences to make nonrandom assessment and choice decisions, produces patterns of behavior that more closely correspond to observed patterns of nut sampling in scrub-jays than the other two rules. This approach does not allow us to quantify how much better CB is at predicting scrub-jay behavior than the other decision rules. Second, we use a model selection approach that uses Akaike Information Criteria to quantify how well alternative models approximate observed data. We find that the CB rule is much more likely to produce the observed patterns of scrub-jay behavior than the other rules. This result provides some of the best empirical evidence of the use of Bayesian information updating by a nonhuman animal.}, }
@article {pmid14967850, year = {2004}, author = {Mak, SK and Spurgeon, P}, title = {The effects of acute sleep deprivation on performance of medical residents in a regional hospital: prospective study.}, journal = {Hong Kong medical journal = Xianggang yi xue za zhi}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {14-20}, pmid = {14967850}, issn = {1024-2708}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition ; Female ; Hong Kong ; Humans ; *Internship and Residency ; Male ; Occupational Diseases/psychology ; Physician's Role ; Physicians/*psychology ; Prospective Studies ; Sleep Deprivation/*psychology ; Stress, Psychological/psychology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of acute sleep deprivation on the level of perceived occupational stress and cognitive functioning in a group of medical residents.<br><br>DESIGN: Prospective study.<br><br>SETTING: Regional hospital, Hong Kong.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: Twenty-one residents who had regular in-hospital on-call duties.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: From January to April 2002, participants were asked to complete the Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices (sets I and II) and Occupational Stress Inventory-Revised tests at the beginning of an on-call day. They then repeated the tests towards the end of their on-call duties on their next on-call day, at a mean (standard deviation) interval of 8.9 (2.3) days. Occupational Stress Inventory-Revised test scores were transformed into T-scores to provide information about an individual's scores relative to the scores of participants in a normative sample.<br><br>RESULTS: The group slept for a mean (standard deviation) of 2.9 (1.0) hours during 29.3 (3.8) hours of on-call duties. Before the on-call duties, participants' mean T-scores for the Occupational Stress Inventory-Revised test ranged from 50.6 to 54.5 for the Occupational Role Questionnaire, 52.0 to 57.0 for the Personal Strain Questionnaire, and 37.3 to 52.3 for the Personal Resources Questionnaire. After on-call duties, apart from a slight increase in Role Insufficiency T-scores (50.6 [5.9] versus 52.1 [6.0]; P=0.044), there was no significant change in all other scales of the Occupational Stress Inventory-Revised test. The scores of the Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices test remained stable after the on-call duties (11.3 [1.2] versus 11.5 [0.8], P=0.129 for set I; 29.9 [5.5] versus 30.2 [6.3], P=0.2 for set II).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Acute sleep deprivation among medical residents was not associated with any significant changes in both cognitive functioning and level of stress perceived.}, }
@article {pmid14967548, year = {2004}, author = {Langdon, R and Coltheart, M}, title = {Recognition of metaphor and irony in young adults: the impact of schizotypal personality traits.}, journal = {Psychiatry research}, volume = {125}, number = {1}, pages = {9-20}, doi = {10.1016/j.psychres.2003.10.005}, pmid = {14967548}, issn = {0165-1781}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Female ; Humans ; *Language ; Male ; *Metaphor ; Phobic Disorders/psychology ; *Recognition, Psychology ; Schizotypal Personality Disorder/diagnosis/*psychology ; Semantics ; Severity of Illness Index ; *Speech Perception ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Wechsler Scales ; *Wit and Humor as Topic ; }, abstract = {Patients with schizophrenia demonstrate two dissociable impairments of pragmatic language comprehension: (1) an insensitivity to irony, which is associated with poor theory-of-mind (i.e. a difficulty with inferring other people's thoughts); and (2) poor recognition of metaphors, which may reflect degraded semantics. This study investigated whether non-clinical high-schizotypal adults show similar impairments of pragmatic language. Thirty-six university students completed the Raine Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire, the Wechsler Memory Scale Logical-Memories subtest, Raven's Progressive Matrices and a story comprehension task that tested the ability to discriminate between incongruous statements and appropriate uses of ironical, metaphorical or literal speech. Counter to the pattern found for patients, high-schizotypal adults were just as capable as low-schizotypal adults of identifying appropriate metaphors, suggesting a discontinuity between schizophrenia and schizotypy for the metaphor-recognition problem. This study's finding of intact metaphor recognition in high-schizotypal adults contrasts with previous findings of poor proverb comprehension in these individuals and is interpreted in terms of different semantic processes required for recognizing and interpreting metaphors. Consistent with the pattern found for patients, high-schizotypal adults were significantly impaired in their ability to appreciate when a literally contradictory utterance could be interpreted as ironical, suggesting continuity between schizophrenia and schizotypy for the irony-appreciation problem.}, }
@article {pmid14959498, year = {2003}, author = {Pleskacheva, MG and Kuptsov, PA and Smirnova, AA and Bagotskaia, MS and Lipp, HP}, title = {[Conditioning of gray crows (Corvus cornix L.) in a "giant" eight-arm radial maze].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {53}, number = {6}, pages = {808-811}, pmid = {14959498}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; *Maze Learning ; Memory ; Songbirds ; Space Perception ; }, abstract = {Twelve adult hooded crows (Corvus cornix) were trained to perform a standard radial-maze task in a giant eight-arm outdoor radial maze constructed at the "Chistyi les" Biological Station (Tver oblast) for comparative investigations of spatial memory in birds and mammals. The maze consists of a central part of 250 cm diameter, and has arms of 650 cm length, 170 cm height and 80 cm width. The examined hooded crows showed good task performance. Errors (repeated visits to empty arms) were few in number and were predominantly connected with the tendency to avoid arms close to an observer.}, }
@article {pmid14765678, year = {2003}, author = {Reisen, WK and Chiles, RE and Martinez, VM and Fang, Y and Green, EN}, title = {Experimental infection of California birds with western equine encephalomyelitis and St. Louis encephalitis viruses.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {40}, number = {6}, pages = {968-982}, doi = {10.1603/0022-2585-40.6.968}, pmid = {14765678}, issn = {0022-2585}, support = {1-R01-AI32939/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; 1-R01-AI39483/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; 1-R01-AI47855/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Birds/classification/*virology ; California ; Disease Vectors ; Encephalitis Virus, St. Louis/*isolation &amp; purification ; Encephalitis Virus, Western Equine/*isolation &amp; purification ; Encephalitis, St. Louis/transmission/*veterinary ; Encephalomyelitis, Equine/transmission/*veterinary ; Songbirds/classification/virology ; }, abstract = {A total of 27 bird species from the San Joaquin and Coachella valleys of California were inoculated subcutaneously with sympatric strains of western equine encephalomyelitis (WEE) and St. Louis encephalitis (SLE) viruses. Overall, 133 of 164 birds inoculated with WEE virus developed a viremia detected by plaque assay; significantly greater than 72 of 163 birds inoculated with SLE virus. Host competence was calculated as the average number of days that each avian species had a viremia > or = 2 log10 plaque-forming units per 0.1 ml, the threshold for infecting susceptible Culex tarsalis Coquillett, the primary vector of these viruses in California. Eleven of 20 species inoculated with WEE virus had a value > or = 1 and were considered to be competent hosts, whereas only six of 22 species inoculated with SLE virus had a value > or = 1. Overall, 133 of 164 birds inoculated with WEE virus and 105 of 163 inoculated with SLE virus produced antibody detectable by enzyme immunoassay and/or plaque reduction neutralization test. Six birds infected with WEE virus (one house finch, three mourning doves, one Brewer's sparrow, and one white-crowned sparrow) and nine birds infected with SLE virus (two house finches, three white-crowned sparrows, one song sparrow, two Western scrub-jays, and one orange crowned warbler) contained viral RNA detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction at necropsy > 6 wk postinoculation; infectious WEE and SLE viruses were only recovered from three mourning doves and an orange-crowned warbler, respectively, after blind passage in mosquito cells. Our study indicated that birds with elevated field antibody prevalence rates may not be the most competent hosts for encephalitis viruses and that relatively few birds developed chronic infections that could be important in virus persistence and dispersal.}, }
@article {pmid14759584, year = {2003}, author = {Atamoros, FP}, title = {Botulinum toxin in the lower one third of the face.}, journal = {Clinics in dermatology}, volume = {21}, number = {6}, pages = {505-512}, doi = {10.1016/j.clindermatol.2003.11.014}, pmid = {14759584}, issn = {0738-081X}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins/*administration &amp; dosage ; *Face ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; *Neck ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {The use of botulinum toxin (BTX) in the lower one third of the face has rapidly become one of the most popular ways to rejuvenate the face, due to the effectiveness of BTX in this area and the lack of major side effects. It is recommended that physicians planning on treating patients in this area of the face first have extensive experience treating the more traditional areas, such as the forehead, glabella, or crow's feet, because the inferior one third of the face has many co-dependent and interdigitating (interrelated) muscles that are very sensitive and readily affected by minimal amounts of BTX. We prefer to reconstitute a 100-U vial of Botox(R) with 1-2.5 mL of saline solution because some of the muscles in this area of the face are very sensitive to diffusion of the toxin and will be weakened beyond the area originally planned for treatment.}, }
@article {pmid14753646, year = {2003}, author = {Boarman, WI}, title = {Managing a subsidized predator population: reducing common raven predation on desert tortoises.}, journal = {Environmental management}, volume = {32}, number = {2}, pages = {205-217}, pmid = {14753646}, issn = {0364-152X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; Desert Climate ; Ecology ; Environment ; Population Dynamics ; Predatory Behavior ; *Turtles ; }, abstract = {Human communities often are an inadvertent source of food, water, and other resources to native species of wildlife. Because these resources are more stable and predictable than those in a natural environment, animals that subsist on them are able to increase in numbers and expand their range, much to the detriment of their competitors and species they prey upon. In the Mojave Desert, common ravens (Corvus corax) have benefited from human-provided resources to increase in population size precipitously in recent years. This trend has caused concern because ravens prey on juvenile desert tortoises (Gopherus agassizi), a federally threatened species. In this paper, I discuss management strategies to reduce raven predation on desert tortoises. The recommendations fall into three categories: (1) managing raven populations by reducing access to anthropogenic resources; (2) removing offending ravens or other birds in specially targeted tortoise management zones; and (3) continuing research on raven ecology, raven behavior, and methods of reducing raven predation on tortoises. I also recommend approaching the problem within an adaptive management framework: management efforts should first be employed as scientific experiments--with replicates and controls--to yield an unbiased assessment of their effectiveness. Furthermore, these strategies should be implemented in concert with actions that reduce other causes of desert tortoise mortality to aid the long-term recovery of their populations. Overall, the approaches outlined in this paper are widely applicable to the management of subsidized predators, particularly where they present a threat to a declining species of prey.}, }
@article {pmid14739240, year = {2004}, author = {Harrison, GL and McLenachan, PA and Phillips, MJ and Slack, KE and Cooper, A and Penny, D}, title = {Four new avian mitochondrial genomes help get to basic evolutionary questions in the late cretaceous.}, journal = {Molecular biology and evolution}, volume = {21}, number = {6}, pages = {974-983}, doi = {10.1093/molbev/msh065}, pmid = {14739240}, issn = {0737-4038}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Base Sequence ; Bayes Theorem ; Birds/*genetics ; Classification/methods ; DNA, Mitochondrial/*genetics ; *Evolution, Molecular ; *Models, Biological ; Models, Genetic ; Molecular Sequence Data ; New Zealand ; *Phylogeny ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Good phylogenetic trees are required to test hypotheses about evolutionary processes. We report four new avian mitochondrial genomes, which together with an improved method of phylogenetic analysis for vertebrate mt genomes give results for three questions in avian evolution. The new mt genomes are: magpie goose (Anseranas semipalmata), an owl (morepork, Ninox novaeseelandiae); a basal passerine (rifleman, or New Zealand wren, Acanthisitta chloris); and a parrot (kakapo or owl-parrot, Strigops habroptilus). The magpie goose provides an important new calibration point for avian evolution because the well-studied Presbyornis fossils are on the lineage to ducks and geese, after the separation of the magpie goose. We find, as with other animal mitochondrial genomes, that RY-coding is helpful in adjusting for biases between pyrimidines and between purines. When RY-coding is used at third positions of the codon, the root occurs between paleognath and neognath birds (as expected from morphological and nuclear data). In addition, passerines form a relatively old group in Neoaves, and many modern avian lineages diverged during the Cretaceous. Although many aspects of the avian tree are stable, additional taxon sampling is required.}, }
@article {pmid14725285, year = {2003}, author = {Marr, JS and Calisher, CH}, title = {Alexander the Great and West Nile virus encephalitis.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {9}, number = {12}, pages = {1599-1603}, pmid = {14725285}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {*Famous Persons ; Greece, Ancient ; History, Ancient ; West Nile Fever/*history ; West Nile virus/growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {Alexander the Great died in Babylon in 323 BC. His death at age 32 followed a 2-week febrile illness. Speculated causes of death have included poisoning; assassination, and a number of infectious diseases. One incident, mentioned by Plutarch but not considered by previous investigators, may shed light on the cause of Alexander's death. The incident, which occurred as he entered Babylon, involved a flock of ravens exhibiting unusual behavior and subsequently dying at his feet. The inexplicable behavior of ravens is reminiscent of avian illness and death weeks before the first human cases of West Nile virus infection were identified in the United States. We posit that Alexander may have died of West Nile virus encephalitis.}, }
@article {pmid14723316, year = {2003}, author = {Bandhu, R and Shankar, N and Tandon, OP and Madan, N}, title = {Effects of iron therapy on cognition in anemic school going boys.}, journal = {Indian journal of physiology and pharmacology}, volume = {47}, number = {3}, pages = {301-310}, pmid = {14723316}, issn = {0019-5499}, mesh = {Anemia/*drug therapy/*psychology ; Attention/drug effects ; Blood Cell Count ; Child ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Event-Related Potentials, P300/drug effects ; Evoked Potentials, Auditory/drug effects/physiology ; Hemoglobins/analysis/metabolism ; Humans ; Iron/*therapeutic use ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {The present study was conducted on 18 anemic and 34 control subjects (mean age 9.26 +/- 0.26 years) to observe the effect of anemia on cognition and to see effect of 3 months of iron therapy on it. Anemia was defined on the basis of hematological values and peripheral smear examinations. Cognitive data consisted of the recording of the P300 wave of Auditory Event Related Potentials (AERP), Ravens Progressive Matrices Test (RPMT), and Digit Span Attention Test (DSAT) under standard test conditions. RPMT scores were then converted to the intelligence quotient (IQ) scores for comparison. Both anemic and control boys were dewormed after recording pretreatment values and then anemic boys were given iron therapy for 3 months, after which the recordings were taken again. Pretreatment, anemic boys showed significantly lower hematological values, delayed P300 latency, and lower RPMT scores as compared to controls. Post therapy the hematological profile of anemic boys though significantly improved as compared to the pretreatment values, was still significantly lower than that of control boys. The P300 latency values of anemic boys showed improvement but were still significantly delayed than the control group. RPMT values and derived IQ scores of anemic boys were similar to control boys after therapy suggesting that though the 3 months iron therapy regime resulted in improvement in psychometric cognitive tests in anemic boys, the basic P300 defects persisted. This suggests that the P300 component of AERP in anemic children is relatively refractory to 3 months of iron therapy.}, }
@article {pmid14723175, year = {2004}, author = {Kellerman, B}, title = {Thinking about ... leadership. Warts and all.}, journal = {Harvard business review}, volume = {82}, number = {1}, pages = {40-5, 112}, pmid = {14723175}, issn = {0017-8012}, mesh = {Administrative Personnel/ethics/*psychology ; Humans ; Interprofessional Relations ; *Leadership ; *Morals ; Politics ; Power, Psychological ; Professional Competence ; *Psychological Theory ; Social Dominance ; }, abstract = {Does using Tyco's funds to purchase a $6,000 shower curtain and a $15,000 dog-shaped umbrella stand make Dennis Kozlowski a bad leader? Is Martha Stewart's career any less instructive because she may have sold some shares on the basis of a tip-off? Is leadership synonymous with moral leadership? Before 1970, the answer from most leadership theorists would certainly have been no. Look at Hitler, Stalin, Pol Pot, Mao Tsetung--great leaders all, but hardly good men. In fact, capricious, murderous, high-handed, corrupt, and evil leaders are effective and commonplace. Machiavelli celebrated them; the U.S. constitution built in safeguards against them. Everywhere, power goes hand in hand with corruption--everywhere, that is, except in the literature of business leadership. To read Tom Peters, Jay Conger, John Kotter, and most of their colleagues, leaders are, as Warren Bennis puts it, individuals who create shared meaning, have a distinctive voice, have the capacity to adapt, and have integrity. According to today's business literature, to be a leader is, by definition, to be benevolent. But leadership is not a moral concept, and it is high time we acknowledge that fact. We have as much to learn from those we would regard as bad examples as we do from the far fewer good examples we're presented with these days. Leaders are like the rest of us: trustworthy and deceitful, cowardly and brave, greedy and generous. To assume that all good leaders are good people is to be willfully blind to the reality of the human condition, and it severely limits our ability to become better leaders. Worse, it may cause senior executives to think that, because they are leaders, they are never deceitful, cowardly, or greedy. That way lies disaster.}, }
@article {pmid14720402, year = {2003}, author = {Estrada-Franco, JG and Navarro-Lopez, R and Beasley, DW and Coffey, L and Carrara, AS and Travassos da Rosa, A and Clements, T and Wang, E and Ludwig, GV and Cortes, AC and Ramírez, PP and Tesh, RB and Barrett, AD and Weaver, SC}, title = {West Nile virus in Mexico: evidence of widespread circulation since July 2002.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {9}, number = {12}, pages = {1604-1607}, pmid = {14720402}, issn = {1080-6040}, support = {N01AI25489/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; N01-AI-25489/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; U90 CCU 618754/CC/ODCDC CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*virology ; Birds ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay/veterinary ; Female ; Hemagglutination Inhibition Tests/veterinary ; Horse Diseases/epidemiology/*virology ; Horses ; Male ; Mexico/epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Viral/chemistry/genetics ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) antibodies were detected in horses from five Mexican states, and WNV was isolated from a Common Raven in the state of Tabasco. Phylogenetic studies indicate that this isolate, the first from Mexico, is related to strains from the central United States but has a relatively high degree of sequence divergence.}, }
@article {pmid14718083, year = {2003}, author = {Lindsay, R and Barker, Ik and Nayar, G and Drebot, M and Calvin, S and Scammell, C and Sachvie, C and Fleur, TS and Dibernardo, A and Andonova, M and Artsob, H}, title = {Rapid antigen-capture assay to detect West Nile virus in dead corvids.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {9}, number = {11}, pages = {1406-1410}, pmid = {14718083}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*virology ; Manitoba ; Ontario ; Oropharynx/virology ; Population Surveillance ; Species Specificity ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {The utility of the VecTest antigen-capture assay to detect West Nile virus (WNV) in field-collected dead corvids was evaluated in Manitoba and Ontario, Canada, in 2001 and 2002. Swabs were taken from the oropharynx, cloaca, or both of 109 American Crows, 31 Blue Jays, 6 Common Ravens, and 4 Black-billed Magpies from Manitoba, and 255 American Crows and 28 Blue Jays from Ontario. The sensitivity and specificity of the antigen-capture assay were greatest for samples from American Crows; oropharyngeal swabs were more sensitive than cloacal swabs, and interlaboratory variation in the results was minimal. The sensitivity and specificity of the VecTest using oropharyngeal swabs from crows were 83.9% and 93.6%, respectively, for Manitoba samples and 83.3% and 95.8%, respectively, for Ontario birds. The VecTest antigen-capture assay on oropharyngeal secretions from crows is a reliable and rapid diagnostic test that appears suitable for incorporation into a WNV surveillance program.}, }
@article {pmid14717633, year = {2004}, author = {Kuncel, NR and Hezlett, SA and Ones, DS}, title = {Academic performance, career potential, creativity, and job performance: can one construct predict them all?.}, journal = {Journal of personality and social psychology}, volume = {86}, number = {1}, pages = {148-161}, doi = {10.1037/0022-3514.86.1.148}, pmid = {14717633}, issn = {0022-3514}, mesh = {*Career Mobility ; *Creativity ; Educational Measurement ; *Educational Status ; Humans ; *Job Satisfaction ; Predictive Value of Tests ; }, abstract = {This meta-analysis addresses the question of whether 1 general cognitive ability measure developed for predicting academic performance is valid for predicting performance in both educational and work domains. The validity of the Miller Analogies Test (MAT; W. S. Miller, 1960) for predicting 18 academic and work-related criteria was examined. MAT correlations with other cognitive tests (e.g., Raven's Matrices [J. C. Raven, 1965]; Graduate Record Examinations) also were meta-analyzed. The results indicate that the abilities measured by the MAT are shared with other cognitive ability instruments and that these abilities are generalizably valid predictors of academic and vocational criteria, as well as evaluations of career potential and creativity. These findings contradict the notion that intelligence at work is wholly different from intelligence at school, extending the voluminous literature that supports the broad importance of general cognitive ability (g).}, }
@article {pmid14716529, year = {2003}, author = {Caffarra, P and Vezzadini, G and Zonato, F and Copelli, S and Venneri, A}, title = {A normative study of a shorter version of Raven's progressive matrices 1938.}, journal = {Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology}, volume = {24}, number = {5}, pages = {336-339}, doi = {10.1007/s10072-003-0185-0}, pmid = {14716529}, issn = {1590-1874}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Brain Damage, Chronic/*diagnosis/physiopathology/*psychology ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Italy ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/*standards ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Reference Values ; Regression Analysis ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {A shorter four-set (A, B, C, D) version of Raven's progressive matrices 1938 (PM38) has gained increasing use in neuropsychological assessment. No normative data spanning across a wide age range are, however, available. This study collected norms for the shorter version of PM38, established an inferential cut-off value and derived equivalent scores in a sample of 248 individuals from 20 to 89 years of age, evenly distributed across sex, age and education levels. Results showed significant effects of age and education but no effect of sex on performance. These normative data will complement existing norms for other tests, will increase the wealth of neuropsychological tools for which normative data are available for the Italian population, and may be useful in the early detection of individuals at risk of developing dementia.}, }
@article {pmid14714967, year = {2003}, author = {Tokashiki, T and Hashiguchi, T and Arimura, K and Eiraku, N and Maruyama, I and Osame, M}, title = {Predictive value of serial platelet count and VEGF determination for the management of DIC in the Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome.}, journal = {Internal medicine (Tokyo, Japan)}, volume = {42}, number = {12}, pages = {1240-1243}, doi = {10.2169/internalmedicine.42.1240}, pmid = {14714967}, issn = {0918-2918}, mesh = {Antithrombins/therapeutic use ; Arginine/analogs &amp; derivatives ; Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation/*blood/physiopathology ; Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use ; Humans ; Male ; Methylprednisolone Hemisuccinate/therapeutic use ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/drug therapy/*metabolism ; Pipecolic Acids/therapeutic use ; Platelet Count ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Sulfonamides ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/*blood/physiology ; }, abstract = {We report a case of a 62-year-old man diagnosed as Crow-Fukase syndrome (POEMS syndrome), in which the serial platelet count and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) concentration were determined before and during the state of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). The serum VEGF concentration was noted to be gradually decreased prior to DIC, after which it abruptly decreased with a corresponding drop in platelet count upon the onset of DIC. The physiological effects of VEGF are viewed as one of the causative factors in DIC and its abrupt and excessive release may have caused the exacerbation of the patient's clinical symptoms.}, }
@article {pmid14714466, year = {2003}, author = {Spiridonova, LN and Chelomina, GN and Kriukov, AP}, title = {[Genetic diversity of carrion and jungle crows from RAPD-PCR analysis data].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {39}, number = {11}, pages = {1516-1526}, pmid = {14714466}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; DNA Primers ; Phylogeny ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Polymorphism, Genetic ; Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Technique ; Songbirds/*genetics ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {RAPD-PCR analysis of the genetic diversity of the carrion crow (Corvus corone) and jungle crow (C. macrorhynchos) living in the continental parts of their species ranges and on some Russian and Japanese Far Eastern islands has been performed. Taxon-specific molecular markers have been found for each species. The genetic diversity of the carrion crow is considerably less than that of the jungle crow at the same genetic distance (P95 = 68.2%, DN = 0.27 and P95 = 88.4%, DN = 0.24, respectively). In both species, the genetic polymorphism of island samples is almost two times greater than that of continental samples (62 and 31.8%, respectively, for C. corone and 81.5 and 47.2%, respectively, for C. macrorhynchos). In addition, differences in genetic diversity between males and females (P95 = 55.1 and P95 = 72.1, respectively) has been found in the carrion crow but not in the jungle crow. The gene diversity of C. macrorhynchos is greater than that of C. corone: the mean numbers of alleles per locus are 2 and 1.81, effective numbers of alleles are 1.62 and 1.43, and the mean expected heterozygosities are 0.39 and 0.30, respectively. The phenograms and phylograms significantly segregate the clusters of the carrion and jungle crows. The clustering patterns of carrion crows corresponds to the intraspecies taxonomic and geographic differentiation: subspecies C. c. corone and C.c. orientalis living in the western and eastern parts of the species range, respectively, form different subclusters. The cluster of the jungle crow does not exhibit differentiation into subspecies C. m. mandshuricus and C. m. japonensis; molecular genetic differences between them are small.}, }
@article {pmid14704392, year = {2003}, author = {Montoro-Rodriguez, J and Kosloski, K and Montgomery, RJ}, title = {Evaluating a practice-oriented service model to increase the use of respite services among minorities and rural caregivers.}, journal = {The Gerontologist}, volume = {43}, number = {6}, pages = {916-924}, doi = {10.1093/geront/43.6.916}, pmid = {14704392}, issn = {0016-9013}, mesh = {Alzheimer Disease/ethnology/*nursing ; Caregivers/*psychology ; Chi-Square Distribution ; Ethnicity ; Humans ; Regression Analysis ; Respite Care/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Rural Population ; United States ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: The goal of this study was to evaluate the practice-oriented model of service use (Yeatts, Crow, &amp; Folts, 1992) relative to the more widely used behavioral model (Andersen, 1968) in its ability to explain the use of respite services by caregivers of Alzheimer's patients. Unlike the behavioral model, which focuses primarily on characteristics of the service user, the practice-oriented model focuses primarily on characteristics of the service.<br><br>DESIGN AND METHODS: Interview data from 1,158 caregivers participating in the Alzheimer's Disease Demonstration Grants to States program (Montgomery, Kosloski, Karner, &amp; Schaefer, 2002) were analyzed. Separate regression models were estimated for adult day care and in-home respite, using the full information maximum likelihood procedure described by Arbuckle (1996), and ordinary least squares regression with listwise deletion of missing data.<br><br>RESULTS: The findings indicate that the factors related to respite use tapped by the practice-oriented model add significantly to explanatory models of service use over models that use only the factors typically represented by the behavioral model. Additional analyses, including a set of interactions with ethnicity, indicated that this improvement occurs primarily for White and Hispanic caregivers, and less so for African Americans.<br><br>IMPLICATIONS: The findings are discussed in terms of their implications for enhancing the timely use of respite services and directions for future research.}, }
@article {pmid14700386, year = {2003}, author = {Hustad, KC and Jones, T and Dailey, S}, title = {Implementing speech supplementation strategies: effects on intelligibility and speech rate of individuals with chronic severe dysarthria.}, journal = {Journal of speech, language, and hearing research : JSLHR}, volume = {46}, number = {2}, pages = {462-474}, pmid = {14700386}, issn = {1092-4388}, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Cerebral Palsy/complications ; Communication Devices for People with Disabilities ; Dysarthria/etiology/physiopathology/*therapy ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Speech Acoustics ; *Speech Intelligibility ; Speech Therapy/*methods ; }, abstract = {A growing body of experimental research suggests that speech supplementation strategies can markedly increase speech intelligibility for individuals with dysarthria (D. Beukelman &amp; K. Yorkston, 1977; E. Crow &amp; P. Enderby, 1989; L. Hunter, T. Pring, &amp; S. Martin, 1991; K. C. Hustad &amp; D. R. Beukelman, 2001). However, studies in which speech supplementation strategies were actually implemented by speakers with dysarthria are limited, leaving their clinical efficacy unknown. The present study compared intelligibility and speech rate differences following speaker implementation of 3 strategies (topic, alphabet, and combined topic and alphabet supplementation) and a habitual (noncued) speech control condition for 5 speakers with severe dysarthria. Results revealed that combined cues and alphabet cues yielded significantly higher intelligibility scores and slower speech rates than topic cues and noncued speech. Overall, topic cues and noncued speech did not differ from one another with regard to intelligibility or speech rate. Combined cues and alphabet cues did not differ from one another with regard to intelligibility; however, speech rate was significantly different between the 2 strategies. Individual differences among speakers were generally consistent with group findings. Results were somewhat different from previous research in which strategies were experimentally superimposed on the habitual speech signal. However, findings provide evidence that alphabet cues and combined cues can have an important effect on intelligibility for speakers with severe dysarthria.}, }
@article {pmid14692529, year = {2003}, author = {Singh, D and Wadhwa, J and Kumar, L and Raina, V and Agarwal, A and Kochupillai, V}, title = {POEMS syndrome: experience with fourteen cases.}, journal = {Leukemia &amp; lymphoma}, volume = {44}, number = {10}, pages = {1749-1752}, doi = {10.1080/1042819031000111044}, pmid = {14692529}, issn = {1042-8194}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Female ; Humans ; India ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *POEMS Syndrome/classification/diagnosis/therapy ; Paraproteinemias/diagnosis/therapy ; Retrospective Studies ; }, abstract = {The POEMS syndrome, also known as Crow-Fukase disease, is a rare multisystem disorder, which may take several years to evolve fully. The combination of symptoms and signs is highly complex and some of the features are detected at sub-clinical level requiring high level of suspicion. The clinical data on POEMS is still evolving with only a few case reports from India. Herein, we report a series of 14 cases with POEMS syndrome at our centre over the past 8 years, which were analysed retrospectively for their clinical features, response to therapy and treatment outcome. Presence of plasma cell dyscrasia (PCD) was essential for inclusion in this study. Confirmation of PCD was done by positive "M" spike in serum and/or urine, bone marrow plasmacytosis or presence of plasmacytoma on biopsy. In addition, the diagnosis of POEMS syndrome needed the presence of at least two of the following features: polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy and/or skin changes. Patients were excluded from study if there was a secondary cause of polyneuropathy like amyloidosis, drugs like vincristine, nerve root or spinal cord compression. Two patients had complete form (all five features) of the syndrome, whereas 12 had incomplete form. Median age was 48 years (range 32-65). Peripheral neuropathy was seen in 13 (92.85%) cases, organomegaly 10 (71.42%), endocrinal involvement 7 (50%) and skin changes 9 (64.28%). An association with Castleman's disease and vasculitis was also noted. With different chemotherapy protocols, all treated patients (n = 12), had significant symptomatic improvement with or without objective improvement at median follow up of 48 months (range 6-120). In conclusion, high level of suspicion is required to detect this rare entity.}, }
@article {pmid14681064, year = {2004}, author = {Asaoka, Y and Yanai, T and Hirayama, H and Une, Y and Saito, E and Sakai, H and Goryo, M and Fukushi, H and Masegi, T}, title = {Fatal necrotic enteritis associated with Clostridium perfringens in wild crows (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Avian pathology : journal of the W.V.P.A}, volume = {33}, number = {1}, pages = {19-24}, doi = {10.1080/03079450310001636228}, pmid = {14681064}, issn = {0307-9457}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/microbiology/*pathology ; Clostridium Infections/epidemiology/pathology/*veterinary ; Clostridium perfringens/isolation &amp; purification/*pathogenicity ; Disease Outbreaks/veterinary ; Enteritis/microbiology/pathology/*veterinary ; Enterotoxins/isolation &amp; purification/toxicity ; Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage/microbiology/pathology/veterinary ; Intestine, Small/microbiology/pathology ; Japan/epidemiology ; Liver/pathology ; Necrosis ; *Songbirds ; Spleen/pathology ; }, abstract = {Sporadic outbreaks of fatal enteritis occurred among free-living wild crows ('large billed' or 'wok' crow; Corvus macrorhynchos) in an open-air park in Japan in 2002. Eight crows were found dead during February, followed by two more in September, and five of the eight were examined histopathologically. At necropsy, all cases showed a markedly dilated small intestine, especially the jejunum and ileum, with large amounts of gas, and dark red to greenish-brown soft content. The necrotic intestinal wall was markedly thickened with multifocal haemorrhages. All cases had multifocal white foci in the liver, and four cases showed marked splenomegaly. Histologically, there was severe necrotic enteritis characterized by extensive mucosal necrosis and multifocal haemorrhages, as well as inflammatory cell infiltrations. A prominent pseudo-membrane formation was noted in the affected intestine. Severe adhesive peritonitis was also observed in three cases. Gram-positive bacilli were present in large numbers in the lumen, and in and around necrotic lesions in the affected intestine. The bacilli were positive for Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin type A by immunohistochemistry, and were also positive for C. perfringens type A using the immunofluorescence method. C. perfringens was isolated by anaerobic culture from the intestinal contents. The present enteritis was thought to be induced by proliferated C. perfringens in the intestine, and to be the cause of death.}, }
@article {pmid14680122, year = {2003}, author = {Anderson, JF and Main, AJ and Andreadis, TG and Wikel, SK and Vossbrinck, CR}, title = {Transstadial transfer of West Nile virus by three species of ixodid ticks (Acari: Ixodidae).}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {40}, number = {4}, pages = {528-533}, doi = {10.1603/0022-2585-40.4.528}, pmid = {14680122}, issn = {0022-2585}, support = {U50/CCU116806-01-1/CC/ODCDC CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cricetinae ; Dermacentor/virology ; Female ; Humans ; Ixodidae/classification/*virology ; Larva ; Mice ; Rabbits ; Species Specificity ; Viral Plaque Assay ; West Nile Fever/*transmission ; West Nile virus/growth &amp; development/isolation &amp; purification/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {Larvae and/or nymphs of four species of ixodid ticks, Ixodes scapularis Say, Amblyomma americanum (L.), Dermacentor andersoni Stiles, and Dermacentor variabilis Say, were fed to completion on laboratory hamsters or mice which had been inoculated with a West Nile (WN) virus isolate from Culex pipiens L. captured in Connecticut USA. Maximum titers in mice and hamsters were approximately 5 and two logs, respectively, lower than recorded (10 logs) in a naturally infected American crow, Corvus brachyrhynchos Brehm. WN virus was isolated in Vero cell culture from ticks and detected by TaqMan RT-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in ticks that had completed their feeding as larvae or nymphs, and in I. scapularis, D. andersoni, and D. variabilis that had molted into the next stage of development. Naive hosts, fed upon by nymphs that as larvae had fed on viremic hosts, did not become infected. WN virus was isolated in Vero cell culture from one female I. scapularis and was detected by TaqMan RT-PCR in 24 adult I. scapularis, one D. andersoni, and two D. variabilis adults that had fed to completion as larvae on viremic hosts and as nymphs on naive mice or hamsters. Three species of ixodid ticks acquired WN virus from viremic hosts and transstadially passed the virus, but vector competency was not demonstrated.}, }
@article {pmid14673584, year = {2003}, author = {Lewerenz, J and Gocht, A and Hoeger, PH and von den Driesch, P and Eckert, B and Lamszus, K and Stuerenburg, HJ and Methner, A}, title = {Multiple vascular abnormalities and a paradoxical combination of vitamin B12 deficiency and thrombocytosis in a case with POEMS syndrome.}, journal = {Journal of neurology}, volume = {250}, number = {12}, pages = {1488-1491}, doi = {10.1007/s00415-003-0261-7}, pmid = {14673584}, issn = {0340-5354}, mesh = {Adult ; Arteriovenous Fistula/complications ; Female ; Humans ; Lung/blood supply/pathology ; Lung Diseases/complications/pathology ; POEMS Syndrome/blood/*complications/pathology/physiopathology ; Paraproteinemias/complications/physiopathology ; Spinal Cord/blood supply/pathology ; Spinal Cord Diseases/complications/pathology ; Thrombocytosis/*complications ; Vascular Diseases/*complications/pathology ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/blood ; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency/*complications ; }, abstract = {POEMS/Crow-Fukase syndrome is a rare multisystem disorder associated with elevated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which clinically presents with polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M-protein, and skin changes. We report a case of POEMS syndrome due to a gammopathy of undetermined significance with thrombocytosis, vitamin B(12) deficiency, highly elevated VEGF and in addition to glomeruloid angiomas two previously undescribed proliferative vascular lesions: a spinal arteriovenous fistula and a plexogenic pulmonary arteriopathy, which ultimately resulted in lethal pulmonary hypertension. We assume that the high VEGF levels caused the vascular abnormalities observed in our patient.}, }
@article {pmid14672297, year = {2003}, author = {Whaley, SE and Sigman, M and Neumann, C and Bwibo, N and Guthrie, D and Weiss, RE and Alber, S and Murphy, SP}, title = {The impact of dietary intervention on the cognitive development of Kenyan school children.}, journal = {The Journal of nutrition}, volume = {133}, number = {11 Suppl 2}, pages = {3965S-3971S}, doi = {10.1093/jn/133.11.3965S}, pmid = {14672297}, issn = {0022-3166}, mesh = {Animals ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Developing Countries ; Diet/*standards ; *Dietary Supplements ; Humans ; Kenya ; Meat ; Rural Population ; }, abstract = {Previous observational studies in developing countries have suggested that diet quality, particularly increased animal source food (ASF) consumption, is positively associated with child cognitive development. This report presents findings from a study in rural Kenya, designed to test the impact of three different diets on the cognitive development of school children. Twelve schools with a total of 555 Standard 1 children (equivalent to U.S. Grade 1) were randomized to one of four feeding interventions: Meat, Milk, Energy or Control (no feeding). Feeding continued for seven school terms (21 mo), and cognitive tests were administered before the commencement of feeding and during every other term of feeding. Hierarchical linear random effects models and associated methods were used to examine the effects of treatment group on changes in cognitive performance over time. Analyses revealed that children receiving supplemental food with meat significantly outperformed all other children on the Raven's Progressive Matrices. Children supplemented with meat, and children supplemented with energy, outperformed children in the Control group on tests of arithmetic ability. There were no group differences on tests of verbal comprehension. Results suggest that supplementation with animal source food has positive effects on Kenyan children's cognitive performance. However, these effects are not equivalent across all domains of cognitive functioning, nor did different forms of animal source foods produce the same beneficial effects. Implications of these findings for supplementation programs in developing countries are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid14658059, year = {2004}, author = {Griffin, DR and Speck, GB}, title = {New evidence of animal consciousness.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {5-18}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-003-0203-x}, pmid = {14658059}, issn = {1435-9448}, mesh = {Animal Communication ; Animals ; Awareness ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Consciousness ; }, abstract = {This paper reviews evidence that increases the probability that many animals experience at least simple levels of consciousness. First, the search for neural correlates of consciousness has not found any consciousness-producing structure or process that is limited to human brains. Second, appropriate responses to novel challenges for which the animal has not been prepared by genetic programming or previous experience provide suggestive evidence of animal consciousness because such versatility is most effectively organized by conscious thinking. For example, certain types of classical conditioning require awareness of the learned contingency in human subjects, suggesting comparable awareness in similarly conditioned animals. Other significant examples of versatile behavior suggestive of conscious thinking are scrub jays that exhibit all the objective attributes of episodic memory, evidence that monkeys sometimes know what they know, creative tool-making by crows, and recent interpretation of goal-directed behavior of rats as requiring simple nonreflexive consciousness. Third, animal communication often reports subjective experiences. Apes have demonstrated increased ability to use gestures or keyboard symbols to make requests and answer questions; and parrots have refined their ability to use the imitation of human words to ask for things they want and answer moderately complex questions. New data have demonstrated increased flexibility in the gestural communication of swarming honey bees that leads to vitally important group decisions as to which cavity a swarm should select as its new home. Although no single piece of evidence provides absolute proof of consciousness, this accumulation of strongly suggestive evidence increases significantly the likelihood that some animals experience at least simple conscious thoughts and feelings. The next challenge for cognitive ethologists is to investigate for particular animals the content of their awareness and what life is actually like, for them.}, }
@article {pmid14655941, year = {2003}, author = {Yang, Y and Xing, L and Li, JG and Palta, J and Chen, Y and Luxton, G and Boyer, A}, title = {Independent dosimetric calculation with inclusion of head scatter and MLC transmission for IMRT.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {30}, number = {11}, pages = {2937-2947}, doi = {10.1118/1.1617391}, pmid = {14655941}, issn = {0094-2405}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Computer Simulation ; Equipment Failure Analysis/*methods ; Humans ; *Models, Biological ; Phantoms, Imaging ; Quality Assurance, Health Care/*methods ; Radiation Protection/methods ; Radiometry/*methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*instrumentation/*methods ; Reproducibility of Results ; Scattering, Radiation ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; }, abstract = {Independent verification of the MU settings and dose calculation of IMRT treatment plans is an important step in the IMRT quality assurance (QA) procedure. At present, the verification is mainly based on experimental measurements, which are time consuming and labor intensive. Although a few simplified algorithms have recently been proposed for the independent dose (or MU) calculation, head scatter has not been precisely taken into account in all these investigations and the dose validation has mainly been limited to the central axis. In this work we developed an effective computer algorithm for IMRT MU and dose validation. The technique is superior to the currently available computer-based MU check systems in that (1) it takes full consideration of the head scatter and leaf transmission effects; and (2) it allows a precise dose calculation at an arbitrary spatial point instead of merely a point on the central axis. In the algorithm the dose at an arbitrary spatial point is expressed as a summation of the contributions of primary and scatter radiation from all beamlets. Each beamlet is modulated by a dynamic modulation factor (DMF), which is determined by the MLC leaf trajectories, the head scatter, the jaw positions, and the MLC leaf transmission. A three-source model was used to calculate the head scatter distribution for irregular segments shaped by MLC and the scatter dose contributions were computed using a modified Clarkson method. The system reads in MLC leaf sequence files (or RTP files) generated by the Corvus (NOMOS Corporation, Sewickley, PA) inverse planning system and then computes the doses at the desired points. The algorithm was applied to study the dose distributions of several testing intensity modulated fields and two multifield Corvus plans and the results were compared with Corvus plans and experimental measurements. The final dose calculations at most spatial points agreed with the experimental measurements to within 3% for both the specially designed testing fields and the clinical intensity modulated field. Furthermore, excellent agreement (mostly within +/- 3.0%) was also found between our independent calculation and the ion chamber measurements at both central axis and off-axis positions for the multifield Corvus IMRT plans. These results indicate that the approach is robust and valuable for routine clinical IMRT plan validation.}, }
@article {pmid14650979, year = {2003}, author = {}, title = {Project teams produce successful turnaround for Illinois hospital.}, journal = {Performance improvement advisor}, volume = {7}, number = {10}, pages = {134-7, 129}, pmid = {14650979}, issn = {1543-6160}, mesh = {Cooperative Behavior ; Efficiency, Organizational ; Financial Management, Hospital ; Hospitals, Voluntary/*organization &amp; administration ; Illinois ; Income ; *Institutional Management Teams ; *Management Audit ; Organizational Innovation ; Patient Care Planning ; *Process Assessment, Health Care ; }, abstract = {When Jay Kreuzer was hired as president and CEO of West Suburban Health Care, it didn't take him long to realize the organization was headed in the wrong direction. The not-for-profit system, which includes a 258-bed medical center, was projected to end fiscal year 2001 with a loss of $19 million. Kreuzer put together a team that implemented an organization-wide performance improvement effort. In just two years the turnaround has been completed, as West Suburban ended fiscal year 2003 with a small surplus.}, }
@article {pmid14646982, year = {2003}, author = {Witecki, K and Czapla, A and Kidoń, Z and Pawlas, K and Powazka, E}, title = {The application of computer posturography in psychological diagnosis.}, journal = {Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research}, volume = {9}, number = {12}, pages = {MT133-8}, pmid = {14646982}, issn = {1234-1010}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Cognition ; Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Postural Balance/*physiology ; Posture ; Psychological Tests ; Psychomotor Performance ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: We analyzed assessment of equilibrium system efficiency versus organic test performance and dependence on functional aspect of cognitive and psychomotor functions.<br><br>MATERIAL/METHODS: A population of 250 persons from 15 to 65 years of age was examined. Measurements of the sense of balance were carried out by means of computer posturograph. Three parameters describing the posturographic trajectory (its variability over time) were selected for analysis: the resultant sway coefficient, average, and maximum sway speeds. CNS function was assessed against the background of tests results from the psychoorganic triad. Cognitive and psychomotor functions were evaluated on the basis of the Raven test, Digital Symbol test, Poppelreuter test, Toulous - Pieron test, and the cross-type apparatus, as well as measurement of direct reaction to auditory and visual stimuli.<br><br>RESULTS: The results showed decreased efficiency of the equilibrium system in persons with poorer performance on organic tests and a lower level of cognitive and psychomotor functions. The analyzed parameters of the equilibrium system demonstrated a higher degree of dependence on the degree of organic alteration than on the location of defects within the central nervous system.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The resultant sway coefficient proved to be the most useful parameter of equilibrium for diagnostic purposes.}, }
@article {pmid14649854, year = {2003}, author = {Neuzil, CE}, title = {Comment on "A creative solution to the NIMBY problem" editorial by Jay Lehr and Herbert Inhaber, Ground Water 41, no. 4: 401.}, journal = {Ground water}, volume = {41}, number = {6}, pages = {722; discussion 722}, doi = {10.1111/j.1745-6584.2003.tb02411.x}, pmid = {14649854}, issn = {0017-467X}, mesh = {Commerce ; Decision Making ; Education ; *Hazardous Waste ; Humans ; Politics ; *Public Opinion ; *Refuse Disposal ; }, }
@article {pmid14632242, year = {2003}, author = {Fales, CL and Knowlton, BJ and Holyoak, KJ and Geschwind, DH and Swerdloff, RS and Gonzalo, IG}, title = {Working memory and relational reasoning in Klinefelter syndrome.}, journal = {Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society : JINS}, volume = {9}, number = {6}, pages = {839-846}, doi = {10.1017/S1355617703960036}, pmid = {14632242}, issn = {1355-6177}, mesh = {Adult ; Case-Control Studies ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Klinefelter Syndrome/*physiopathology ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/*physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving ; Semantics ; Verbal Learning ; }, abstract = {Klinefelter syndrome (KS) is a sex chromosome abnormality associated with male infertility and mild cognitive deficits. Individuals with KS have been reported to have impaired verbal ability, as well as deficits in executive function. To further understand the nature of their deficits, we assessed specific elements of frontal lobe function such as working memory and relational reasoning. Men with KS exhibited a deficit in a transitive inference task in which participants ordered a set of names based on a list of propositions about the relative heights of the people named. This deficit was present even for items in which the propositions were given in order, so a chaining strategy could be used. Men with KS are also impaired on the n-back task, which uses letters as stimuli. In contrast, these men performed as well as controls in nonverbal reasoning (Raven's Progressive Matrices). These results suggest that men with KS have intact nonverbal reasoning abilities, but that a difficulty in encoding verbal information into working memory may underlie their executive and linguistic impairments.}, }
@article {pmid14630301, year = {2003}, author = {Caspi, A and Reichenberg, A and Weiser, M and Rabinowitz, J and Kaplan, Z and Knobler, H and Davidson-Sagi, N and Davidson, M}, title = {Cognitive performance in schizophrenia patients assessed before and following the first psychotic episode.}, journal = {Schizophrenia research}, volume = {65}, number = {2-3}, pages = {87-94}, doi = {10.1016/s0920-9964(03)00056-2}, pmid = {14630301}, issn = {0920-9964}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/*etiology ; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Psychometrics ; Psychotic Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology/psychology ; Schizophrenia/*complications ; Severity of Illness Index ; Time Factors ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The purpose of this historical prospective study was to follow the cognitive impairment in schizophrenia from the premorbid period until shortly after the onset of the first psychotic episode within the same subjects.<br><br>METHODS: Forty-four first episode schizophrenia patients were enrolled in the study. Their cognitive performance was assessed as part of the Israeli Draft Board aptitude assessments at ages 16-17, when all were found to be in good mental health (first assessment) and again, following the manifestation of the first psychotic episode (second assessment). Forty-four healthy comparisons were also enrolled and tested twice, at the same ages as the patients. Both times, the assessments included four subtests assessing abstract reasoning (Raven Progressive Matrices-R), mental speed and concentration (Otis-R), verbal reasoning (Similarities-R), and mathematical abilities (Arithmetic-R).<br><br>RESULTS: A within group analysis did not reveal statistically significant changes between the first and the second assessment among the schizophrenia patients on any measure. However, a between group comparison of changes showed that relative to the healthy comparisons, schizophrenia patients deteriorated on the RPM-R (p=0.021) and Otis-R (p<0.001), but not on the Similarities-R and Arithmetic-R. Schizophrenia patients performed worse than comparisons in all four subtests on the first and second assessments (all p<0.01).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that most of the cognitive impairment exhibited by first-episode schizophrenia patients precedes the first psychotic episode. A decline between ages 16 and 17 and the onset of psychosis is evident in some but not all cognitive functions.}, }
@article {pmid14629522, year = {2003}, author = {Conwell, LS and O'Callaghan, MJ and Andersen, MJ and Bor, W and Najman, JM and Williams, GM}, title = {Early adolescent smoking and a web of personal and social disadvantage.}, journal = {Journal of paediatrics and child health}, volume = {39}, number = {8}, pages = {580-585}, doi = {10.1046/j.1440-1754.2003.00240.x}, pmid = {14629522}, issn = {1034-4810}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adolescent Behavior/*psychology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Queensland/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; Sex Distribution ; Smoking/epidemiology/*psychology ; Smoking Prevention ; *Social Environment ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To examine concurrent physical, educational, behavioural, social and family factors associated with cigarette smoking in adolescents at 14 years.<br><br>METHODOLOGY: This study reports cross-sectional data on 14-year-old adolescents and their mothers, drawn from a prospective cohort study commencing at the time of the first antenatal visit. At 14 years, 5247 adolescents completed questionnaires on current cigarette smoking. Adolescents and mothers completed health, psychological, school and social questionnaires relating to the youth. A total of 3864 adolescents were assessed physically, and undertook the Wide Range Achievement Test (WRAT) and Ravens Progressive Matrices Test.<br><br>RESULTS: Cigarette smoking at 14 years was associated with externalizing and internalizing behaviour problems, school suspension, contact with children's services and alcohol/illicit drug use. Apart from internalizing behaviour problems, these problems were more prevalent in boys. Poor school performance on maternal/adolescent reports was associated with increased smoking quantity for both genders, though WRAT scores were only decreased in male smokers. The Ravens Progressive Matrices Test scores were lower for boys with greater smoking quantity. The trend was less marked in girls. Body mass index and exercise frequency were not associated with cigarette smoking at 14 years, though girls who smoked had a higher reported prevalence of asthma. Parental smoking, marital conflict, maternal depression, lower income, and mothers aged in their teens and with a lower level of education at the time of this pregnancy were also positively associated with adolescent tobacco use.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Findings of this study indicate that cigarette smoking, at this critical time of smoking initiation, is associated with a broad spectrum of personal and social disadvantage that needs to be considered in intervention strategies.}, }
@article {pmid14629394, year = {2003}, author = {Nielsen, R and Tarpy, DR and Reeve, HK}, title = {Estimating effective paternity number in social insects and the effective number of alleles in a population.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {12}, number = {11}, pages = {3157-3164}, doi = {10.1046/j.1365-294x.2003.01994.x}, pmid = {14629394}, issn = {0962-1083}, support = {NIGMS-0201037/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Alleles ; Animals ; Computer Simulation ; Genetics, Population ; Insecta/*genetics/physiology ; *Models, Genetic ; Monte Carlo Method ; Reproduction/physiology ; *Sexual Behavior, Animal ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Estimating paternity and genetic relatedness is central to many empirical and theoretical studies of social insects. The two important measures of a queen's mating number are her actual number of mates and her effective number of mates. Estimating the effective number of mates is mathematically identical to the problem of estimating the effective number of alleles in population genetics, a common measure of genetic variability introduced by Kimura &amp; Crow (1964). We derive a new bias-corrected estimator of effective number of types (mates or alleles) and compare this new method to previous methods for estimating true and effective numbers of types using Monte Carlo simulations. Our simulation results suggest that the examined estimators of the true number of types have very similar statistical properties, whereas the estimators of effective number of types have quite different statistical properties. Moreover, our new proposed estimator of effective number of types is approximately unbiased, and has considerably lower variance than the original estimator. Our new method will help researchers more accurately estimate intracolony genetic relatedness of social insects, which is an important measure in understanding their ecology and social behaviour. It should also be of use in population genetic studies in which the effective number of alleles is of interest.}, }
@article {pmid14629358, year = {2003}, author = {Hughes, JM and Mather, PB and Toon, A and Ma, J and Rowley, I and Russell, E}, title = {High levels of extra-group paternity in a population of Australian magpies Gymnorhina tibicen: evidence from microsatellite analysis.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {12}, number = {12}, pages = {3441-3450}, doi = {10.1046/j.1365-294x.2003.01997.x}, pmid = {14629358}, issn = {0962-1083}, mesh = {Animals ; DNA Primers ; Female ; Gene Frequency ; Lod Score ; Male ; Microsatellite Repeats/genetics ; *Sexual Behavior, Animal ; Songbirds/*genetics/*physiology ; Territoriality ; Western Australia ; }, abstract = {Breeding systems vary widely in birds, from monogamous pairs through to complex group systems where subordinates assist breeding individuals to rear young each season. The Australian magpie varies geographically both in plumage patterns and social organization. Some populations of both eastern and western plumage forms are plural breeders with group size varying from three to over 15 mature individuals. This study used variation at microsatellite loci to determine the level of extra-group paternity in a population of the western form near Perth in Western Australia. Extra-group paternity was the highest recorded for any bird species to date (82%) and indicates that few offspring within a territory are sired by the social partner of the female. In addition, the data indicated that nearly 10% of juveniles were not the genetic offspring of any female within their territory, suggesting some intraspecific brood parasitism. Taken together, these findings are remarkable considering the highly territorial nature of the species and the extent of territorial defence practised by all members of the group towards extra-group conspecifics during daylight hours.}, }
@article {pmid14626746, year = {2003}, author = {Wick, JY}, title = {Mudpies and magpies: iron at the extremes.}, journal = {Journal of the American Pharmacists Association : JAPhA}, volume = {43}, number = {5}, pages = {556-560}, doi = {10.1331/154434503322452175}, pmid = {14626746}, issn = {1544-3191}, mesh = {*Acidosis/diagnosis/drug therapy/physiopathology ; Adolescent ; Anemia, Hypochromic/physiopathology ; Anemia, Iron-Deficiency/drug therapy/*etiology ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; *Iron/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; }, }
@article {pmid14624215, year = {2003}, author = {Frias, AE and Belfort, MA}, title = {Post Magpie: how should we be managing severe preeclampsia?.}, journal = {Current opinion in obstetrics &amp; gynecology}, volume = {15}, number = {6}, pages = {489-495}, doi = {10.1097/00001703-200312000-00006}, pmid = {14624215}, issn = {1040-872X}, mesh = {Anticonvulsants/*therapeutic use ; Clinical Trials as Topic ; Delivery, Obstetric/*methods ; Eclampsia/diagnosis/therapy ; Female ; Humans ; Magnesium Sulfate/*therapeutic use ; Pre-Eclampsia/diagnosis/*therapy ; Pregnancy ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Preeclampsia is a common complication of pregnancy and a significant cause of fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this review is to highlight and discuss aspects of some of the more recent clinical management papers published in the field of preeclampsia and eclampsia. The title explains the clinical nature of this paper and a detailed review of the basic science literature is beyond the scope of this article.<br><br>RECENT FINDINGS: Several controversial areas still exist in the current management of severe preeclampsia/eclampsia. We present a number of interesting papers dealing with practical management questions and discuss the optimum treatment regimen for preventing eclampsia. The findings of the MAGPIE study are discussed. Opinions are expressed as to the current management of preterm severe preeclampsia, and we outline a new hypothesis on the etiology of eclampsia.<br><br>SUMMARY: Preeclampsia/eclampsia remains a disease without a clear etiology. Despite this, clinical management issues are being addressed and maternal morbidity and mortality continue to fall.}, }
@article {pmid14616301, year = {2003}, author = {Ruggieri, RM and Palermo, R and Vitello, G and Gennuso, M and Settipani, N and Piccoli, F}, title = {Cognitive impairment in patients suffering from relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis with EDSS &lt; or = 3.5.}, journal = {Acta neurologica Scandinavica}, volume = {108}, number = {5}, pages = {323-326}, doi = {10.1034/j.1600-0404.2003.00157.x}, pmid = {14616301}, issn = {0001-6314}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory Disorders/diagnosis/etiology ; Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting/*complications ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Severity of Illness Index ; Task Performance and Analysis ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Previous papers have mainly demonstrated the presence and the frequency of cognitive impairment in patients suffering from relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The purpose of this study was to investigate subjects with the relapsing-remitting form of the disease and mild clinical disability (EDSS < or = 3.5), so as to quantify this deficit when the illness does not yet interfere with daily living and the ability to work.<br><br>METHODS: Fifty patients and 50 healthy controls were submitted to a wide neuropsychological battery, including Wechsler Memory Scale I- (WMS), Benton Visual Retention Test D- (BVRT), Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM), Kohs' test (KT), Judgement of Lines Orientation H- (JLO), Facial Recognition (FR) and Aachner Aphasie Test (AAT). They also underwent Clinical Depression Scale (CDQ) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI).<br><br>RESULTS: The results show the presence of significant memory impairment on both WMS (P = 0.000) and BVRT (P = 0.000) in patients compared with controls. Patients were also impaired in abstract reasoning and problem-solving deficit (KT P = 0.003; RCPM P = 0.000) and in FR (P = 0.019). Cognitive decline correlated with illness duration (r = 0.761), but was independent of EDSS (r = 0.085).<br><br>CONCLUSION: Cognitive decline was present even when physical disability was not yet severe, but it was mild and did not limit patients' ability to work. The cognitive impairment outlined was of the subcortical type and correlated with illness duration. This study emphasizes the importance of cognitive examination in clinical practice. It is suggested that a complete neurological examination include tests on memory and abstract reasoning.}, }
@article {pmid14614551, year = {2003}, author = {Bain, GH and Lemmon, H and Teunisse, S and Starr, JM and Fox, HC and Deary, IJ and Whalley, LJ}, title = {Quality of Life in healthy old age: relationships with childhood IQ, minor psychological symptoms and optimism.}, journal = {Social psychiatry and psychiatric epidemiology}, volume = {38}, number = {11}, pages = {632-636}, doi = {10.1007/s00127-003-0685-5}, pmid = {14614551}, issn = {0933-7954}, mesh = {Activities of Daily Living/psychology ; Aged/*psychology ; Aged, 80 and over ; Anxiety/diagnosis/psychology ; *Attitude ; *Cognition ; Cohort Studies ; Depression/diagnosis/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Quality of Life/*psychology ; Regression Analysis ; Scotland ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to examine relationships in old age between Quality of Life (QoL), childhood IQ, current cognitive performance and minor psychological symptoms, and to estimate possible contributions to these relationships made by sex, education, socioeconomic deprivation, current living group, sex, and balance and 6m walk time.<br><br>METHODS: We conducted a follow-up study on 88 community residents without dementia who were survivors of the Aberdeen City 1921 birth cohort. QoL was measured by the Schedule for the Evaluation of Individual QoL-Direct Weighting (SEIQoL-DW), current cognition by MMSE and Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM), childhood IQ, minor psychological symptoms as assessed by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and optimism by the Life Orientation Test (LOT); we included balance, 6m walk time and demographic data.<br><br>RESULTS: QoL was better in men than in women. Women reported more anxiety and depression. QoL correlated significantly with current cognition measured by RPM, childhood intelligence, anxiety and depressive symptoms, optimism and balance. The best model to predict QoL relied on childhood intelligence (13.4% of the variance) and was improved by addition of HADS (8.8 %) and LOT (4.8 %). Other variables did not contribute to the prediction of QoL.<br><br>CONCLUSION: In the absence of dementia, childhood IQ, HADS and LOT explain 26.9% of the variance in QoL as reported by community-resident old people. The direction of association between current anxiety and depressive symptoms and lower QoL is uncertain. Lower childhood IQ may contribute to coping less well with later life. Lower QoL is not an invariable concomitant of mild cognitive decline.}, }
@article {pmid14609472, year = {2003}, author = {Yaremych, SA and Warner, RE and Van de Wyngaerde, MT and Ringia, AM and Lampman, R and Novak, RJ}, title = {West Nile virus detection in American crows.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {9}, number = {10}, pages = {1319-1321}, pmid = {14609472}, issn = {1080-6040}, support = {U50/CCU 520518-02/CC/ODCDC CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Capsid/immunology ; Feces/virology ; Illinois ; Immunoassay/methods/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Saliva/virology ; Songbirds/*virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {A dipstick immunochromatographic assay used for West Nile virus (WNV) detection in mosquitoes was investigated for application to testing of fecal, saliva, and tissue samples from dead American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos). Results suggest that VecTest may be an efficient method for WNV detection in field-collected, dead American Crows, although confirmation of results and further investigation are warranted.}, }
@article {pmid14608026, year = {2003}, author = {Kiupel, M and Simmons, HA and Fitzgerald, SD and Wise, A and Sikarskie, JG and Cooley, TM and Hollamby, SR and Maes, R}, title = {West Nile virus infection in Eastern fox squirrels (Sciurus niger).}, journal = {Veterinary pathology}, volume = {40}, number = {6}, pages = {703-707}, doi = {10.1354/vp.40-6-703}, pmid = {14608026}, issn = {0300-9858}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain/pathology ; Immunohistochemistry ; Kidney/pathology ; Myocardium/pathology ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Rodent Diseases/*pathology ; *Sciuridae ; West Nile Fever/*pathology/veterinary ; West Nile virus/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Since the initial outbreak of West Nile virus (WNV) in the northeastern United States in 1999, the virus has rapidly spread westward and southward across the USA, causing high mortality in crows as well as sporadic mortality in horses, humans, and a wide variety of birds. In 2002 the epidemic widened as hundreds of equine and human cases and sporadic cases in other mammalian species were reported. This is the first report of WNV infection in three Eastern fox squirrels (Sciurus niger). Neurologic signs included head tilt, uncoordinated movement, paralysis, and tremors. Gross lesions were absent. Microscopic lesions consisted of lymphoplasmacytic inflammation involving the brain, heart, kidney, and liver. Formalin-fixed tissues from the three squirrels were tested for WNV antigen by immunohistochemical staining and for WNV-specific RNA by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The kidneys of all three squirrels stained positive with immunohistochemistry for WNV, whereas the brain and heart were positive in only one animal. Two of the three squirrels were positive for WNV by RT-PCR.}, }
@article {pmid14597373, year = {2003}, author = {Weichbold, V and Herka, H}, title = {Performance of hearing impaired children on Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices Test.}, journal = {International journal of pediatric otorhinolaryngology}, volume = {67}, number = {11}, pages = {1213-1217}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijporl.2003.07.011}, pmid = {14597373}, issn = {0165-5876}, mesh = {Child ; Female ; Hearing Loss/*physiopathology ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Pilot Projects ; *Visual Acuity ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Hearing impairment (HI) is presumed to influence the visual skills of affected children, possibly biasing their performance on tests requiring visual analyzing skills. We investigated whether such a bias would occur on Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM); a set of three subtests (labeled A, AB and B) for measurement of non-verbal intelligence.<br><br>METHOD: A sample of 62 children presenting with various degrees of HI were administered the test. Raw scores were controlled for age, and correlated to degree of HI.<br><br>RESULTS: The correlation between degree of HI and overall test score missed significance (r=0.23, P=0.07), but scores from subtest B showed a significant positive correlation with HI (r=0.37, P=0.003).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that severe or profound HI may lead to increased competence for task solution on subtest B. However, despite the biasing effect on this subtest, the CPM overall test score is only slightly affected.}, }
@article {pmid14595486, year = {2003}, author = {Fonseca, LC and Tedrus, GM and Martins, SM and Gibert, MA and Antunes Td, Tde A and Laloni, DT}, title = {[Quantitative electroencephalography in healthy school-age children: analysis of band power].}, journal = {Arquivos de neuro-psiquiatria}, volume = {61}, number = {3B}, pages = {796-801}, doi = {10.1590/s0004-282x2003000500018}, pmid = {14595486}, issn = {0004-282X}, mesh = {Age Distribution ; Alpha Rhythm ; Analysis of Variance ; Brain/*physiology ; *Brain Mapping ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Delta Rhythm ; *Electroencephalography ; Evoked Potentials/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Learning Disabilities/diagnosis ; Male ; Regression Analysis ; Sex Distribution ; Sex Factors ; Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Theta Rhythm ; }, abstract = {Quantitative EEG aspects are studied with respect to age, sex and sociocultural parameters. A total of 162 children, from 7 to 11 years, neurologically and intellectually normal was studied. They were submitted to anamnesis, neurological examination, Raven test, school performance test, digital electroencephalogram and quantitative electroencephalogram analysis. There was a decrease in absolute and relative delta and theta power and an increase in alpha 2 relative power with the increase of age. These findings are similar to those observed in studies from Europe, Asia and North America. Absolute delta and alpha power were higher in children with better scores in school performance test. There were no significant differences in quantitative electroencephalographic parameters according to sex and the mother's educational level.}, }
@article {pmid14590205, year = {2000}, author = {Ardila, A and Lopera, F and Rosselli, M and Moreno, S and Madrigal, L and Arango-Lasprilla, JC and Arcos, M and Murcia, C and Arango-Viana, JC and Ossa, J and Goate, A and Kosik, KS}, title = {Neuropsychological profile of a large kindred with familial Alzheimer's disease caused by the E280A single presenilin-1 mutation.}, journal = {Archives of clinical neuropsychology : the official journal of the National Academy of Neuropsychologists}, volume = {15}, number = {6}, pages = {515-528}, pmid = {14590205}, issn = {0887-6177}, abstract = {It was hypothesized that subjective memory complaints represent the earliest sign of dementia in carriers of the presenilin-1 (PS1) mutation. A total of 122 subjects (44 males, 78 females) were included in this study. Forty of them were positive for the mutation in the PS1 gene (mutation positive, MP) whereas 82 showed negative results (mutation negative, MN). Subjects were active, functionally normal, even though some of them complained of memory difficulties. Two groups of neuropsychological instruments were administered: (a) The Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease (CERAD) neuropsychological test battery (Morris et al., 1989), and (b) some additional neuropsychological tests (Raven Test, Wechsler Memory Scale, Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure, Boston Naming Test, Naming of Categories, Boston Diagnostic Aphasia Examination, Memory of Three Phrases, Knopman Test, Digit Symbol, and Visual "A" Cancellation Test). Performance in both groups was quite similar. In a secondary analysis, the MP group was subdivided into two subgroups: without and with memory complaints. When comparing both subgroups, a better performance in the first subgroup was found throughout the different subtests. Statistically significant differences were observed in the following test scores: Mini-Mental State Examination, Naming Test (Low Frequency), Memory of Words Test, Recall of Drawings, Wechsler Memory Scale (Logical Memory, Associative Learning, and Total Score), Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure (Immediate Recall Condition), Boston Diagnostic Aphasia Examination (Complex Ideational Material Subtest), Memory of Three Phrases Test, Serial Verbal Learning (maximum score and Delayed Recall), Knopman Test (First Trial, Second Trial, and Recall after 5 Minutes), Digit Symbol, and Visual "A" Cancellation Test (Additions). Results supported the hypothesis that memory complaints represent the earliest symptom of familial Alzheimer's disease. In addition to the memory difficulties, other minor cognitive impairments were also found, particularly, mild anomia, concentration difficulties and defects in the understanding of complex verbal material.}, }
@article {pmid14587795, year = {2003}, author = {Soltani, M and Adibi, A and Xu, Y and Lee, RK}, title = {Systematic design of single-mode coupled-resonator optical waveguides in photonic crystals.}, journal = {Optics letters}, volume = {28}, number = {20}, pages = {1978-1980}, doi = {10.1364/ol.28.001978}, pmid = {14587795}, issn = {0146-9592}, abstract = {By establishing a direct relation between the dispersion and the field profile of a coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW) and those of its constituent cavities, we present a systematic method for the design of a single-mode CROW and for control of its dispersion. The procedure includes the design of a single-mode cavity and control of its frequency by engineering its structure. Then, by chaining these cavities in the proper direction and at an appropriate distance, we achieve the desired dispersion for the CROW.}, }
@article {pmid14582396, year = {2003}, author = {Varzar', AM and Spitsyn, VA and Sheremet'eva, VA}, title = {[Genetic-demographic study of the Gagauz population of Moldava].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {39}, number = {9}, pages = {1258-1267}, pmid = {14582396}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Data Collection ; Demography ; Female ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Male ; Marriage ; Moldova ; }, abstract = {The genetic demographic structure of the Gagauz population of Moldova has been described for the first time. Data of interviews and official records have been used to analyze the sex and age structure of the population and marriage relationships, as well as to estimate the effective sizes of the populations of six settlements and selection intensity (according to Crow's formula). The demographic data indicate that social transformations have substantially affected the genetic demographic parameters of the population. The gene exchange rate per generation has been determined (m = 0.0204 in 1972 and m = 0.0309 in 1997). The estimated ratio between the components of Crow's index (I(m) < I(f)) in the Gagauz population is similar to those for the populations of developed countries with traditionally rural lifestyles. The study of marriage relationships of the Gagauz population has shown that Gagauzes are intensely mixing with Moldovans, Bulgarians, Russians, and Ukrainians.}, }
@article {pmid14562887, year = {2003}, author = {Fitzgerald, SD and Patterson, JS and Kiupel, M and Simmons, HA and Grimes, SD and Sarver, CF and Fulton, RM and Steficek, BA and Cooley, TM and Massey, JP and Sikarskie, JG}, title = {Clinical and pathologic features of West Nile virus infection in native North American owls (Family strigidae).}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {47}, number = {3}, pages = {602-610}, doi = {10.1637/6088}, pmid = {14562887}, issn = {0005-2086}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*pathology/virology ; Disease Susceptibility/veterinary ; Immunohistochemistry/veterinary ; Severity of Illness Index ; Species Specificity ; *Strigiformes ; West Nile Fever/pathology/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {Since the initial report of West Nile virus in the northeastern United States in 1999, the virus has spread rapidly westward and southward across the country. In the summer of 2002, several midwestern states reported increased cases of neurologic disease and mortality associated with West Nile virus infection in various native North American owl species. This report summarizes the clinical and pathologic findings for 13 captive and free-ranging owls. Affected species were all in the family Strigidae and included seven snowy owls (Nyctea scandiaca), four great-horned owls (Bubo virginianus), a barred owl (Strix varia), and a short-eared owl (Asio flammeus). Neurologic signs identified included head tilt, uncoordinated flight, paralysis, tremors, and seizures. Owls that died were screened for flaviviral proteins by immunohistochemical staining of formalin-fixed tissues, followed by specific polymerase chain reaction assay to confirm West Nile virus with fresh tissues when available. Microscopic lesions were widespread, involving brain, heart, liver, kidney, and spleen, and were typically nonsuppurative with infiltration by predominantly lymphocytes and plasma cells. Lesions in owls were much more severe than those previously reported in corvids such as crows, which are considered highly susceptible to infection and are routinely used as sentinel species for monitoring for the presence and spread of West Nile virus. This report is the first detailed description of the pathology of West Nile virus infection in Strigiformes and indicates that this bird family is susceptible to natural infection with West Nile virus.}, }
@article {pmid14561278, year = {2003}, author = {Rae, C and Digney, AL and McEwan, SR and Bates, TC}, title = {Oral creatine monohydrate supplementation improves brain performance: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {270}, number = {1529}, pages = {2147-2150}, pmid = {14561278}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Adult ; Brain Chemistry/drug effects ; Creatinine/*administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; Cross-Over Studies ; *Dietary Supplements ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*drug effects ; Male ; Memory/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {Creatine supplementation is in widespread use to enhance sports-fitness performance, and has been trialled successfully in the treatment of neurological, neuromuscular and atherosclerotic disease. Creatine plays a pivotal role in brain energy homeostasis, being a temporal and spatial buffer for cytosolic and mitochondrial pools of the cellular energy currency, adenosine triphosphate and its regulator, adenosine diphosphate. In this work, we tested the hypothesis that oral creatine supplementation (5 g d(-1) for six weeks) would enhance intelligence test scores and working memory performance in 45 young adult, vegetarian subjects in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over design. Creatine supplementation had a significant positive effect (p < 0.0001) on both working memory (backward digit span) and intelligence (Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices), both tasks that require speed of processing. These findings underline a dynamic and significant role of brain energy capacity in influencing brain performance.}, }
@article {pmid14560490, year = {2003}, author = {Wiener, D and Rybakowski, J}, title = {[Schizophrenia in the light of the evolutionary theories].}, journal = {Psychiatria polska}, volume = {37}, number = {4}, pages = {601-613}, pmid = {14560490}, issn = {0033-2674}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Physiological ; Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Humans ; *Models, Psychological ; *Psychological Theory ; *Schizophrenia ; }, abstract = {The aim of the article was to review the hypotheses of schizophrenia in the light of the evolutionary theory. The authors distinguished adaptationist and non-adaptationist hypotheses concerning the evolutionary underpinnings of schizophrenia. The adaptationist hypotheses are firmly based on notions of adaptation, natural selection and proximate and ultimate causes. The standard hypotheses of this sort proposed by Steven and Price as well as by Pollimeni and Reiss were discussed. Also, the other similar conceptions originated from McGuire and Troisi and proposed by David Horrobin were presented of which the latter is especially promising and worth further investigating. The non-adaptationistic authors criticised many assumptions of the adapationist program i.e. too broad use of term "adaptation" in the area of human behaviour or the very idea of proximate and ultimate causes. Unlike the adaptionists, they focus their attention on other aspects of the evolutionary processes i.e. the role of the mutation and also they are searching in a much intensive way than their opponents for verification of the hypotheses based on the empirical evidence. The theories developed by Crow and by Yeo were listed among the non-adaptationistic ones and presented.}, }
@article {pmid14535936, year = {2003}, author = {Kaden, V and Lange, E and Steyer, H and Bruer, W and Langner, CH}, title = {Role of birds in transmission of classical swine fever virus.}, journal = {Journal of veterinary medicine. B, Infectious diseases and veterinary public health}, volume = {50}, number = {7}, pages = {357-359}, doi = {10.1046/j.1439-0450.2003.00670.x}, pmid = {14535936}, issn = {0931-1793}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Birds/*virology ; Classical Swine Fever/*transmission ; Classical Swine Fever Virus/genetics/immunology/*pathogenicity ; *Disease Vectors ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay/veterinary ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; }, abstract = {Active transmission of classical swine fever virus (CSFV) was studied in six birds (five ravens, one hooded crow) and two laying hens. Cloacal swabs, blood and organs of birds and hens as well as blood and organ samples of pigs which had been fed with faeces derived from CSFV infected birds or which had come in contact with faeces of infected hens were negative for CSFV. None of the animals seroconverted during the study. This result demonstrates that active virus transmission by these animals is unlikely. Dissemination of CSFV from wild boar to domestic pigs is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid14534826, year = {2003}, author = {Fogli, AL}, title = {Temporal lift by galeapexy: a review of 270 cases.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {27}, number = {3}, pages = {159-65; discussion 166}, doi = {10.1007/s00266-003-0062-5}, pmid = {14534826}, issn = {0364-216X}, mesh = {Adult ; Blepharoplasty/*methods ; Blepharoptosis/surgery ; Eyelids/surgery ; Female ; Forehead/*surgery ; Humans ; Lebanon ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Retrospective Studies ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; Scalp/surgery ; Skin Aging ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this technique is to correct the ptotic tail of the brow and crow's feet as well as to redrape the premalar skin to allow us to make a greater skin resection in the lower lid. The purpose of this presentation is to expose the advantages, the inconveniences, and the complications of this technique. We reviewed the charts of 270 patients who were operated on between June 1996 and January 2002. The average age of the patients was 45 years old. Temporal lifts were performed during a frontotemporal lift in 92 cases, and during a three-stage lift (frontal, facial, and cervical) in 170 cases. In eight cases, an isolated temporal lift was performed. An upper blepharoplasty was performed in 252 cases and transconjunctival fat pad excision was performed in 188 cases. Finally, a lower lid skin resection was done following a galeapexy in 241 cases. The surgical approach consists of a temporal incision, followed by a subgaleal dissection, and then a subcutaneous dissection that allows the cephalic galea, previously incised, to be anchored to the temporal aponeurosis. This allows good cutaneous redraping that raises the brow tail and a detachment of the orbicularis fibers. The suturing of the scalp is done without tension and without eliminating hair. The results of the technique with a follow-up period of more than five years for the earlier cases and six months for the last cases, were evaluated with three criteria: (1) the distance between the brow and the eyelashes, (2) the reduction of crow's feet, (3) the reduction of wrinkles at the level of the lower lid and the malar region. Overall satisfaction was also rated. Of 270 patients, 225 had ratings of very good to good, 13 had average results, and 13 had unsatisfactory results. As far as complications, five had unilateral hematoma requiring an evacuation, four patients had temporary alopecia, and eight patients had temporary frontal muscle weakness that resolved within one to three months. This technique, performed under local anesthesia, is very efficient, reproducible, and simple. The incidence of complications can be reduced when one is meticulous during dissection.}, }
@article {pmid14533572, year = {2003}, author = {Mendez-Eastman, SK}, title = {BOTOX: a review.}, journal = {Plastic surgical nursing : official journal of the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgical Nurses}, volume = {23}, number = {2}, pages = {64-69}, doi = {10.1097/00006527-200323020-00006}, pmid = {14533572}, issn = {0741-5206}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; *Cosmetic Techniques/adverse effects/nursing ; Humans ; Informed Consent ; Neuromuscular Agents/pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Nurse's Role ; Patient Education as Topic ; Patient Selection ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BOTOX cosmetic is proving to be an affordable alternative for thousands of people looking to enhance their appearance without the cost, risks and downtime associated with surgical procedures. Botulinum toxin is a neuromuscular blocking agent produced by Clostridium Botulinum, an anaerobic bacterium. When first discovered BOTOX was pinpointed as the cause of severe paralysis acquired through the ingestion of contaminated food. Paralysis related to BOTOX is caused by chemodenervation, which is a result of blockage of the presynaptic release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction. The corrugator (medial eyebrows), crow's feet, forehead, platysmal neckbands, and the jowl are frequently targeted areas for BOTOX injections. There are no current guidelines for physical limitations following the administration of BOTOX. Side effects associated with BOTOX infections appear to be either local, due to the paralysis of adjacent muscles, or mild flu-like symptoms lasting a few days in a small number of patients.}, }
@article {pmid14529660, year = {2003}, author = {Heron, DE and Gerszten, K and Selvaraj, RN and King, GC and Sonnik, D and Gallion, H and Comerci, J and Edwards, RP and Wu, A and Andrade, RS and Kalnicki, S}, title = {Conventional 3D conformal versus intensity-modulated radiotherapy for the adjuvant treatment of gynecologic malignancies: a comparative dosimetric study of dose-volume histograms.}, journal = {Gynecologic oncology}, volume = {91}, number = {1}, pages = {39-45}, doi = {10.1016/s0090-8258(03)00461-x}, pmid = {14529660}, issn = {0090-8258}, mesh = {Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation ; Endometrial Neoplasms/*radiotherapy/surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/adverse effects/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Adjuvant/adverse effects ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/adverse effects ; Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/*radiotherapy/surgery ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The goals of this study were to evaluate the feasibility of pelvic intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) in the adjuvant treatment of gynecologic malignancies and to compare the dose-volume histograms (DVHs) and determine the potential impact on acute and long-term toxicity based on the dose to target and nontarget tissues for both planning techniques.<br><br>METHODS: Ten consecutive patients referred for adjuvant radiotherapy for gynecologic malignancies at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Hospital were selected for CT-based treatment planning using the ADAC 3D version 4.2g and the NOMOS Corvus IMRT version 4.0. Normal tissues and critical structures were contoured on axial CT slices by both systems in conjunction with a gynecologic radiologist. These regions included internal, external, and common iliac nodal groups, rectum, upper 4 cm of vagina, bladder, and small bowel. Conventional treatment planning included 3D four-field box using 18-MV photons designed to treat a volume from the L(5)/S(1) border superiorly to the bottom of the ischial tuberosity on the AP/PA field and shaped blocks on the lateral fields to minimize the dose to the rectum and small bowel. A seven-field technique using 6-MV photons was used for IMRT. Restraints on small bowel for IMRT were set at 23.0 Gy +/- 5% and 35.0 Gy+/- 5% for the rectum and 37.5 Gy +/- 5% for the bladder while simultaneously delivering full dose (45.0 Gy) to the intrapelvic nodal groups in 1.8-Gy daily fractions. The dose-volume histograms where then compared for both treatment delivery systems.<br><br>RESULTS: The volume of each organ of interest (small bowel, bladder, and rectum) receiving doses in excess of 30 Gy was compared in the 3D and IMRT treatment plans. The mean volume of small bowel receiving doses in excess of 30 Gy was reduced by 52% with IMRT compared with 3D. A similar advantage was noted for the rectum (66% reduction) and the bladder (36% reduction). The nodal regions at risk and the upper vagina all received the prescribed dose of 45.0 Gy.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Intensity-modulated radiotherapy appears to offer several advantages over conventional 3D radiotherapy (3D CRT) planning for adjuvant radiotherapy for gynecologic malignancies. These include a significant reduction in treatment volume for bladder, rectum, and small bowel. It is anticipated that this reduction in volume of normal tissue irradiated would translate into overall reduction in acute and potentially late treatment-related toxicity. Prospective trials are necessary to better evaluate the advantages in a larger group of patients.}, }
@article {pmid14524539, year = {2003}, author = {Kutz, FW and Wade, TG and Pagac, BB}, title = {A geospatial study of the potential of two exotic species of mosquitoes to impact the epidemiology of West Nile virus in Maryland.}, journal = {Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {190-198}, pmid = {14524539}, issn = {8756-971X}, mesh = {Aedes/*virology ; Animals ; Environment ; Environmental Monitoring ; Epidemiological Monitoring ; *Geographic Information Systems ; Humans ; *Insect Vectors ; Maryland/epidemiology ; Population Dynamics ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology ; West Nile virus/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {We used geospatial techniques to study the potential impact of 2 exotic mosquitoes, Aedes albopictus and Ochlerotatus japonicus japonicus, on the epidemiology of West Nile virus in Maryland. These 2 species have established populations in Maryland over the past 15 years. Larvae of both mosquito species are found in natural and artificial water-holding cavities and containers, particularly water in tires. Therefore, we used locations of licensed tire dealers and of tire dumps scheduled for clean up as an index for potential sources of mosquito vectors. This index was expected to underestimate the actual population of source habitats. West Nile virus activity in Maryland during 1999, 2000, and 2001 was indicated by the presence of dead, infected birds, particularly American crows and other corvids; infected pools of mosquitoes; and human and horse infections. Adult females of both mosquito species are aggressive, opportunistic feeders that have been observed to take blood meals from avian and mammalian hosts. Susceptible vertebrate hosts, particularly birds, are ubiquitously distributed throughout the developed areas of the state. This analysis demonstrated a spatial convergence of the virus, the exotic mosquito vectors, and susceptible hosts. This conjunction indicated that these 2 mosquito species have a high potential to serve as bridge vectors and thus, impact the epidemiology of West Nile virus under favorable environmental and climatic conditions. Positive mosquito pools were collected from only the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan corridor, suggesting a newly created enzootic focus for this virus. Land-cover analysis of the sites where virus activity had been detected showed predominantly developed land uses. Analyses of the environmental justice aspects (social, economic, and housing characteristics) of block groups with human West Nile fever cases or with positive mosquito pools were equivocal. Human cases seemed to occur in developed block groups with lower income levels.}, }
@article {pmid14524538, year = {2003}, author = {Takeda, T and Whitehouse, CA and Brewer, M and Gettman, AD and Mather, TN}, title = {Arbovirus surveillance in Rhode Island: assessing potential ecologic and climatic correlates.}, journal = {Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {179-189}, pmid = {14524538}, issn = {8756-971X}, mesh = {Animals ; Arboviruses/isolation &amp; purification/*pathogenicity/*physiology ; *Climate ; Culicidae/*virology ; Ecology ; Population Dynamics ; Population Surveillance ; Rhode Island ; Temperature ; }, abstract = {During 1995-2000, mosquitoes were collected from sites throughout Rhode Island and tested for the presence of arboviruses. Mosquito trapping was done weekly from June to October with CO2-baited light traps. In all, 186,537 mosquitoes belonging to 7 different genera were collected, of which Coquillettidia perturbans was most abundant. A total of 6,434 pools were processed for arbovirus isolation, from which 193 arboviral isolations were made. These included 109 Highlands J, 71 eastern equine encephalomyelitis, 1 California encephalitis serogroup, 2 Jamestown Canyon, 3 Cache Valley, and 9 Flanders viruses. Our isolations of Flanders virus represent the 1st reported occurrence of this virus in Rhode Island. After the 1999 sudden occurrence of the West Nile virus (WN) in the New York City area, a dead-bird surveillance program was started to test for this virus. Although no isolations of WN were made from mosquitoes, 87 virus isolations were made from a total of 330 wild birds tested. All the WN-infected birds were either American crows or blue jays. Isolation of WN from dead birds marked the 1st documented appearance of this virus in Rhode Island. Significant interannual variation of arbovirus activity in Rhode Island prompted us to examine if climate-associated factors such as rainfall and temperature correlate with virus activity. Total rainfall amounts from May to June were higher than normal in 1996 and 1998. These years showed significantly higher arbovirus activity. Deviations from normal temperature showed low correlation with arbovirus activity during the 6-year study period. Therefore, precipitation appeared to be more important than temperature in predicting arbovirus activity in Rhode Island.}, }
@article {pmid14519243, year = {2003}, author = {Turell, MJ and Bunning, M and Ludwig, GV and Ortman, B and Chang, J and Speaker, T and Spielman, A and McLean, R and Komar, N and Gates, R and McNamara, T and Creekmore, T and Farley, L and Mitchell, CJ}, title = {DNA vaccine for West Nile virus infection in fish crows (Corvus ossifragus).}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {9}, number = {9}, pages = {1077-1081}, pmid = {14519243}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Songbirds ; *Vaccines, DNA ; *Viral Vaccines ; West Nile Fever/*prevention &amp; control ; West Nile virus/*immunology ; }, abstract = {A DNA vaccine for West Nile virus (WNV) was evaluated to determine whether its use could protect fish crows (Corvus ossifragus) from fatal WNV infection. Captured adult crows were given 0.5 mg of the DNA vaccine either orally or by intramuscular (IM) inoculation; control crows were inoculated or orally exposed to a placebo. After 6 weeks, crows were challenged subcutaneously with 105 plaque-forming units of WNV (New York 1999 strain). None of the placebo inoculated-placebo challenged birds died. While none of the 9 IM vaccine-inoculated birds died, 5 of 10 placebo-inoculated and 4 of 8 orally vaccinated birds died within 15 days after challenge. Peak viremia titers in birds with fatal WNV infection were substantially higher than those in birds that survived infection. Although oral administration of a single DNA vaccine dose failed to elicit an immune response or protect crows from WNV infection, IM administration of a single dose prevented death and was associated with reduced viremia.}, }
@article {pmid14511793, year = {2003}, author = {Mackay, CE and Barrick, TR and Roberts, N and DeLisi, LE and Maes, F and Vandermeulen, D and Crow, TJ}, title = {Application of a new image analysis technique to study brain asymmetry in schizophrenia.}, journal = {Psychiatry research}, volume = {124}, number = {1}, pages = {25-35}, doi = {10.1016/s0925-4927(03)00088-x}, pmid = {14511793}, issn = {0165-1781}, support = {R01 MH-44245/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Chronic Disease ; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/anatomy &amp; histology ; Functional Laterality/physiology ; Humans ; *Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Occipital Lobe/anatomy &amp; histology ; Parietal Lobe/anatomy &amp; histology ; Schizophrenia/*diagnosis ; Sex Factors ; Temporal Lobe/anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {The hypothesis that normal brain torque (i.e. rightward frontal and leftward occipital asymmetry) is anomalous in schizophrenia (Crow, 1997. Trends in Neuroscience, 20, 339-343) was tested by application of a novel image analysis technique on three-dimensional magnetic resonance images obtained in 26 adult patients with chronic schizophrenia (18 males, 8 females) and 24 controls (14 males, 10 females). Right and left cerebral hemisphere tissue was extracted via non-linear co-registration with a mask image, and maps were computed of inter-hemispheric differences in tissue volume in an array of columns of voxels orthogonal to the mid-plane (2D), and profiles of coronal slice volumes (1D). Furthermore, integration of two-dimensional column maps gave approximate lobar asymmetries, and occipital and frontal asymmetries were combined to give a volumetric measure of brain torque. Significant brain torque was revealed in male and female control and patient groups, and did not correlate with brain size. Frontal and occipital asymmetries were significantly correlated in all groups. Both frontal and occipital components of torque were significantly increased in males than females. Patients tended to have reduced torque, particularly the leftward occipital component. Furthermore, 3/26 patients (but no controls) had reversed torque (leftward frontal and rightward occipital asymmetry). Contrary to Crow's hypothesis, brain torque was not significantly reduced in patients with schizophrenia relative to controls, although reversal of torque was found in three cases. Future studies with larger sample sizes should consider sexual dimorphism and specific symptoms in relation to asymmetry.}, }
@article {pmid14504499, year = {2003}, author = {Guerrissi, JO}, title = {Intraoperative injection of botulinum toxin A into the orbicularis oculi muscle for the treatment of crow's feet.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {112}, number = {5 Suppl}, pages = {161S-163S}, doi = {10.1097/01.PRS.0000082205.71631.F1}, pmid = {14504499}, issn = {0032-1052}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; *Face ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Injections ; Intraoperative Period ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; *Oculomotor Muscles ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, }
@article {pmid14504483, year = {2003}, author = {Kane, MA}, title = {Classification of crow's feet patterns among Caucasian women: the key to individualizing treatment.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {112}, number = {5 Suppl}, pages = {33S-39S}, doi = {10.1097/01.PRS.0000082192.45787.B6}, pmid = {14504483}, issn = {0032-1052}, mesh = {Adult ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Eye ; *Face ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Skin Aging ; *White People ; }, abstract = {One of the most common complaints of aging patients is the appearance of crow's feet lines in the lateral canthal region. Many different treatment methods, including chemical peels, surgical procedures, filler material injections, botulinum toxin injections, and laser resurfacing, have been used for effacement of these lines among aging patients and patients with sun damage. Despite the fact that many scientific articles have been written regarding the treatment of crow's feet lines, the actual patterns of these lines have not been adequately studied or classified. Several different patterns of animation in this area have been observed. These different patterns and their frequencies are described. All crow's feet patterns are not the same, and it follows that treatment of different patterns of crow's feet lines should be adapted to the particular patterns.}, }
@article {pmid14503355, year = {2003}, author = {Takahashi, T and Ono, S and Ogawa, K and Tamura, M and Mizutani, T}, title = {[A case of anaphylactoid shock occurring immediately after the initiation of second intravenous administration of high-dose immunoglobulin (IVIg) in a patient with Crow-Fukase syndrome].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {43}, number = {6}, pages = {350-355}, pmid = {14503355}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Anaphylaxis/*etiology ; Biomarkers/blood ; Capillary Permeability ; Endothelial Growth Factors/blood/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Immunoglobulins, Intravenous/administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/blood/physiology ; Lymphocyte Activation ; Lymphokines/blood/physiology ; Middle Aged ; Neovascularization, Pathologic ; POEMS Syndrome/diagnosis/*therapy ; Polyethylene Glycols/adverse effects ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors ; }, abstract = {We report a case of anaphylactoid shock occurring immediately after the initiation of second intravenous administration of high-dose immunoglobulin (IVIg) in a patient with Crow-Fukase syndrome. The patient was a 57-year-old woman, who was admitted to our hospital because of numbness and muscle weakness in the four extremities, difficulty in walking, and foot edema. On admission, her skin was dry and rough, and also showing scattered pigmentation, small hemangiomas, and hypertrichosis in both legs. She had distal dominant muscle weakness, more prominent in her legs, and was not able to walk. Deep tendon reflexes in her four extremities were markedly diminished or absent. She had a glove and stocking type of paresthesia, severe impairment of vibration, and absence of joint position sensation in her four extremities. On laboratory data, serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was markedly elevated to 5,184 pg/ml (normal: below 220 pg/ml). Cerebrospinal fluid examination revealed cell counts of 2/microliter and protein level of 114 mg/dl. Abdominal echo showed marked hepatosplenomegaly. On peripheral nerve conduction study, both motor and sensory conduction velocity were undetectable in her legs. We diagnosed her condition as Crow-Fukase syndrome, and started IVIg of polyethyleneglycol-treated gamma-globulin (PEG-glob) at 400 mg/kg/day for 5 consecutive days for polyneuropathy. Since the first IVIg mildly improved muscle weakness, we tried the second IVIg of PEG-glob. However, immediately after the initiation of second IVIg of PEG-glob, she developed hypotention, dyspnea, cold sweating, cyanosis, and became lethargic. We immediately stopped IVIg and started first-aid treatment with epinephrine and corticosteroid for these symptoms. This treatment was successful and the patient fully recovered without any sequelae. Since serum IgE level remained unchanged and lymphocyte stimulation test (LST) was positive against the same rot number of PEG-glob, we diagnosed these symptoms as anaphylactoid shock. Based on the results of LST, we speculated that PEG-glob was the causative agent of anaphylactoid reaction. Anaphylactic or anaphylactoid reaction as adverse effects of IVIg is very rare, and to our knowledge, there are only 4 previous reports of anaphylactic or anaphylactoid reaction caused by IVIg. Therefore, we speculated that the prominent high level of serum VEGF in the present patient might play a significant contributory role in the development of anaphylactoid shock, since the vascular permeability of VEGF is 50,000 times stronger than that of histamine. We consider that it is necessary to carefully monitor IVIg of PEG-glob administration for polyneuropathy in patients with high level of serum VEGF, like Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid14502050, year = {2003}, author = {Harrison, AR}, title = {Chemodenervation for facial dystonias and wrinkles.}, journal = {Current opinion in ophthalmology}, volume = {14}, number = {5}, pages = {241-245}, doi = {10.1097/00055735-200310000-00003}, pmid = {14502050}, issn = {1040-8738}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins/*therapeutic use ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Dystonia/*drug therapy ; *Facial Muscles/innervation ; Humans ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Sympathectomy, Chemical ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Chemodenervation has evolved greatly over the past 30 years since botulinum toxin was first introduced as a therapeutic injection for managing strabismus.<br><br>RECENT FINDINGS: Botulinum toxins are now accepted as a first-line treatment for patients suffering from spasms secondary to facial dystonias. These treatments are extremely effective and well tolerated by most patients. New agents including doxorubicin, Doxil, and ricin mab35 are being developed to create a longer-lasting treatment option for patients with facial dystonias. Recently the use of chemodenervation for managing facial wrinkles has expanded the use of these agents. The botulinum toxins have been found to be extremely efficacious in managing facial wrinkles, especially in the upper half of the face. The federal drug administration approved the use of Botox (Allergan, Irvine, CA) for glabellar furrows. Periocular crow's feet lines and horizontal forehead lines are also amenable to treatment with the botulinum toxins. Further uses including chemical browlift, as well as lower face and neck line treatments have also been described.<br><br>SUMMARY: The use of the botulinum toxins has revolutionized the treatment of a broad array of diseases from benign essential blepharospasm to facial wrinkles.}, }
@article {pmid14501826, year = {2003}, author = {Levine, PH and Wei, XJ and Gagner, JP and Flax, H and Mittal, K and Blank, SV}, title = {Pleomorphic liposarcoma of the uterus: case report and literature review.}, journal = {International journal of gynecological pathology : official journal of the International Society of Gynecological Pathologists}, volume = {22}, number = {4}, pages = {407-411}, doi = {10.1097/01.pgp.0000092156.33490.89}, pmid = {14501826}, issn = {0277-1691}, mesh = {Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal/*adverse effects ; Breast Neoplasms/drug therapy/prevention &amp; control ; Female ; Humans ; Liposarcoma/*chemically induced/*pathology/surgery ; Middle Aged ; Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/prevention &amp; control ; Tamoxifen/*adverse effects ; Uterine Neoplasms/*chemically induced/*pathology/surgery ; }, abstract = {A 62-year-old woman with a history of breast carcinoma being treated with tamoxifen presented with a rapidly enlarging pelvic mass. Imaging studies suggested a uterine leiomyoma with possible sarcomatous transformation. Laparotomy revealed a 15-cm, oval, well-circumscribed mass emanating from the posterior cervix and left uterosacral ligament. The tumor had a variegated fleshy, tan, myxoid, and necrotic sectioned surface. Microscopic examination revealed a variety of patterns and cell types characteristic of liposarcoma that included myxoid/round cell, storiform/pleomorphic, epithelioid, and spindle cell areas. Lipogenic areas exhibited a "crow's feet" vasculature and characteristic lipoblasts. The tumor cells were highly pleomorphic with numerous mitotic figures, some of them atypical. The tumor cells were immunoreactive for vimentin, estrogen receptors, and S-100. The tumor recurred 9 months postoperatively. Although a variety of uterine tumors have been associated with tamoxifen treatment, this appears to be the first example of tamoxifen-associated uterine liposarcoma.}, }
@article {pmid19336069, year = {2003}, author = {Gold, AH and Burns, AJ and Slavin, JW}, title = {Skin resurfacing techniques.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {23}, number = {2}, pages = {140-141}, doi = {10.1067/maj.2003.47}, pmid = {19336069}, issn = {1527-330X}, abstract = {Mechanical dermabrasion, chemical peels, and laser resurfacing have been used to improve the appearance of scarred, sun damaged, and aging skin. Each modality has its proponents, and some surgeons use all of these techniques in a variety of circumstances. A. Jay Burns, MD, and James W. Slavin, MD, share their treatment choices and approaches to common skin resurfacing problems in response to questions posed by "Comparing Notes" editor, Alan H. Gold, MD. (Aesthetic Surg J 2003;23:140-141.).}, }
@article {pmid19331995, year = {2002}, author = {Connell, BF}, title = {Male face lift.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {22}, number = {4}, pages = {385-396}, doi = {10.1067/maj.2002.128454}, pmid = {19331995}, issn = {1527-330X}, abstract = {The author describes how to use the deep layer support technique for male face lift to achieve natural-looking results and virtually undetectable scars. He discusses incisions and neck contouring in detail and provides pointers on eliminating crow's-feet. (Aesthetic Surg J 2002;22:385-396.).}, }
@article {pmid19331874, year = {2001}, author = {Matarasso, A and Glassman, M}, title = {Effective use of botox for lateral canthal rhytids.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {21}, number = {1}, pages = {61-63}, doi = {10.1067/maj.2001.113196}, pmid = {19331874}, issn = {1527-330X}, abstract = {The authors discuss why Botox is their preferred nonsurgical treatment for lateral canthal rhytids, or crow's-feet. Three or 4 injections are spaced at 1.0- to 1.5-cm intervals beginning immediately beneath the lateral edge of the eyebrow and extending down to the lateral infraorbital rim. Complications are infrequent and can usually be avoided with the injection techniques described.}, }
@article {pmid19328157, year = {1998}, author = {Roberts, TL and Yokoo, KM}, title = {In pursuit of optimal periorbital rejuvenation: laser resurfacing with or without blepharoplasty and brow lift.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {18}, number = {5}, pages = {321-332}, doi = {10.1016/s1090-820x(98)70086-x}, pmid = {19328157}, issn = {1090-820X}, abstract = {The reader is presumed to have a broad understanding of plastic surgical procedures and concepts. After studying this article, the participant should be able to: Physicians may earn 1 hour of Category 1 CME credit by successfully completing the examination based on material covered in this article. The examination begins on page 333. Although blepharoplasty and coronal foreheadplasty have been the traditional methods for improving the periorbital region, in our opinion these techniques together can address only three of the 11 major signs of periorbital aging. We found no improvement with skin-muscle flap type blepharoplasty and coronal lift in the wrinkling and pigmentation changes in the infrabrow, crow's-foot, lower lid, and malar regions, and no improvement in malar bags, "dark circles" under the eyes, or the apparent lengthening of the vertical height of the lower lid and its associated sharp transition between cheek and lid skin. CO(2) laser resurfacing can improve these signs of periorbital aging and permits the laser transconjunctival approach if blepharoplasty is necessary, thus eliminating a visible lower lid incision. When brow ptosis is present, we prefer endoscopic brow lift to minimize dysesthesia and incision size. We evaluated 174 patients and contrasted the results of the traditional approach versus laser resurfacing with or without laser blepharoplasty and endoscopic brow lift. The mean time to evaluation was 9 months, ranging up to 2 (1/2) years. We found that the laser approach can address almost all of the 11 major signs of periorbital aging at one procedure. It is minimally invasive, technically simple and fast, offers lasting improvements, and yields high patient satisfaction and better results with fewer persistent problems than the traditional surgical approach.}, }
@article {pmid16571495, year = {1997}, author = {Annett, M}, title = {Schizophrenia and autism considered as the products of an agnosic right shift gene.}, journal = {Cognitive neuropsychiatry}, volume = {2}, number = {3}, pages = {195-214}, doi = {10.1080/135468097396333}, pmid = {16571495}, issn = {1354-6805}, abstract = {Crow (1995a) has argued that schizophrenia is caused by a gene associated with the evolution of human language and cerebral specialisation. This paper suggests a mechanism for Crow's theory which requires only one new assumption for the right shift genetic model of handedness and cerebral dominance (Annett, 1978). The proposal is that the RS+ allele, whose normal function is to induce the left hemisphere to serve speech by impairing speech-related cortex in the right hemisphere, tends to lose its directional coding. It becomes agnosic (RS+ a) for right versus left and impairs the left or right hemisphere at random. Schizophrenia is likely to develop when the RS+ a gene is paired with a normal RS+ gene but only in the 50% of cases where both hemispheres are affected. In the 50% where RS+ a affects the right hemisphere, development is normal as in the RS+ RS+ genotype. The risks for schizophrenia in monozygotic and dizygotic twins and other relatives are as expected for 50% expression of a Mendelian gene which is paired with a particular allele, but not alternative alleles at the same locus. The frequency of homozygotes for the agnosic gene is about 4 in 10,000, the rate observed for autism. A random pattern of double hemisphere deficits would give scope for a range of developmental strengths and weaknesses as observed within the spectrum of autistic disorders. Tests of the model require brain-imaging studies sensitive to individual differences in hemisphere lateralisation and a search for a genetic locus with human and nonhuman primate alleles, together with a mutant of the human form with a frequency of about 2%.}, }
@article {pmid19327707, year = {1997}, author = {McDaniel, DH and Ash, K and Lord, J and Newman, J and Zukowski, M}, title = {The erbium: YAG laser: a review and preliminary report on resurfacing of the face, neck, and hands.}, journal = {Aesthetic surgery journal}, volume = {17}, number = {3}, pages = {157-164}, doi = {10.1016/s1090-820x(97)80036-2}, pmid = {19327707}, issn = {1090-820X}, abstract = {The use of short-pulsed or flash-scanned CO(2) lasers to resurface skin has rapidly joined chemical peels and dermabrasion as an accepted procedure. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a mid-infrared pulsed Erbium: YAG laser prospectively to determine its clinical efficacy for resurfacing of the face, neck, and hands. Postoperative changes and recovery period were also evaluated. A total of 21 patients were evaluated on a prospective basis with Er: YAG laser resurfacing (12 crow's feet, five upper lips, three hands, and one neck). Additional nonstudy clinical experience is also reported. Posttreatment crusting or scabbing lasted an average of 2.7 days, pain an average of 3 days, erythema an average of 5.2 days, and swelling an average of 3 days. Blinded subjective grading was performed 2 months postoperatively. This grading revealed a 52% combined improvement from all areas. The appearance of crow's feet was improved by 58%; upper lip, 43%; dorsal hand, 48%; and neck, 44%. Overall the Er: YAG laser consistently produced reduction in rhytids and improvement in the appearance of sun-damaged skin. The times for reepithelialization and duration of erythema were strikingly shorter than those typically observed with current CO(2) laser resurfacing. This report details the study, reviews Er: YAG laser technology, and compares our findings with those observed with standard CO(2) laser resurfacing.}, }
@article {pmid15275123, year = {1997}, author = {Roberts, MC and Modha, J}, title = {Probing the nematode surface.}, journal = {Parasitology today (Personal ed.)}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {52-56}, doi = {10.1016/s0169-4758(96)10082-x}, pmid = {15275123}, issn = {0169-4758}, support = {//Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {The surface of parasitic nematodes has been well studied with respect to its structural and immunological properties, but little is known about its biophysical nature and the role this plays in the host-parasite relationship. In this article, Clare Roberts and Jay Modha highlight some biophysical features of nematode surfaces and discuss their recent findings regarding mechanisms controlling surface-associated biophysical phenomena observed in parasitic nematodes during infection or culture in medium simulating the mammalian host environment. The nematode surface is distinct from the plasma membrane, nevertheless some parallel features exist and are described.}, }
@article {pmid18645865, year = {1996}, author = {Cooper, JE}, title = {Health studies on the Indian house crow (Corvus splendens).}, journal = {Avian pathology : journal of the W.V.P.A}, volume = {25}, number = {2}, pages = {381-386}, doi = {10.1080/03079459608419148}, pmid = {18645865}, issn = {0307-9457}, abstract = {Fifteen Indian house crows (Corvus splendens) were obtained from a live-trap in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Two died soon after arrival. The remainder were examined clinically prior to euthanasia. All birds were examined post-mortem and a limited number of laboratory investigations was performed. None of the birds showed significant clinical signs or pathological lesions. Lice were found on one. Only Escherichia coli and Proteus spp. were isolated from the rectum. Coccidia were detected in three birds and cestodes in one. Haematological values were low. No blood parasites were seen. More extensive studies are warranted on the possible role of this species in the dissemination of pathogens.}, }
@article {pmid15275242, year = {1996}, author = {Modha, J and Roberts, MC and Kusel, JR}, title = {Schistosomes and serpins: a complex business.}, journal = {Parasitology today (Personal ed.)}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, pages = {119-121}, doi = {10.1016/0169-4758(96)80672-7}, pmid = {15275242}, issn = {0169-4758}, support = {//Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {The view of the schistosome host-parasitic relationship has changed in the past two decades. Previously, it was thought the parasite simply defended itself in the face of a hostile host environment. However, it is now realized that the host-parasite interaction is much more of a dynamic interplay, where the parasite is able to exploit host homeostatic mechanisms for survival, maturity and transmission. Here, Jay Modha, Clare Roberts and John Kusel discuss the recent identification of serine protease inhibitors (serpins) on the schistosome surface and suggest how their properties might be exploited by the parasite.}, }
@article {pmid18653037, year = {1996}, author = {Assisi, A and Alimenti, M and Maceli, F and Di Pietro, S and Lalloni, G and Montera, P}, title = {Diabetes and cognitive function: preliminary studies.}, journal = {Archives of gerontology and geriatrics}, volume = {22 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {229-232}, doi = {10.1016/0167-4943(96)86942-1}, pmid = {18653037}, issn = {0167-4943}, abstract = {The relationships between diabetes mellitus and cognitive function were studied in patients aged over 50 years with good metabolic control and without chronic complications. The following tests were performed: CES-D, Rey's, Benton's, Span's, Corsi's, MMSE, Raven's. No differences were found in the comparison between groups (12 diabetics and 17 normals) contrary to other similar studies. This could be for the bad metabolic control of patients studied in previous studies or for the existence of minimal deficit not shown with the conventional tests.}, }
@article {pmid18653003, year = {1996}, author = {Mastroianni, F and Panza, F and Solfrizzi, V and Nardó, GA and Torres, F and Resta, F and Capurso, A}, title = {Analysis of some aspects of learning and memorization processes in an adult population.}, journal = {Archives of gerontology and geriatrics}, volume = {22 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {29-34}, doi = {10.1016/0167-4943(96)86908-1}, pmid = {18653003}, issn = {0167-4943}, abstract = {This study evaluated the impact of aging, gender and education on learning function and memory process. Hundred-six normal subjects, in the age range 20-79 years were recruited, and their following functions were evaluated as inclusion criteria: (i) global cognitive performance by using the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE > or = 24), (ii) depressive disorders by using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS < 14); (iii) intelligence and "problem solving" ability by means of the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (PM 47 > or = 9). The prospective memory and the working memory, the incidental memory, as well as the immediate and delayed visuo-verbal association of these subjects were evaluated in the daily life conditions with the aid of a personal computer. Statistical analysis was performed by a model of multiple linear regression. The results suggested that prospective memory and working memory was influenced by age and education in both sexes. The percental loss of visuo-verbal association was not influenced by education, but was by gender and age. Test exploring incidental memory evidenced a worsening of performance in both sexes, being influenced only by the age.}, }
@article {pmid15091609, year = {1995}, author = {Medvedev, N and Markova, L}, title = {Residues of chlorinated pesticides in the eggs of Karelian birds, 1989-90.}, journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)}, volume = {87}, number = {1}, pages = {65-70}, doi = {10.1016/s0269-7491(99)80009-8}, pmid = {15091609}, issn = {0269-7491}, abstract = {Eggs (n = 52) of four aquatic bird species (Larus canus, Larus argentatus, Larus ridibundus, Sterna hirundo) and crow (Corvus cornix), collected in Southern Karelia in 1989 and 1990, contained DDE and lindane. The highest mean levels of these pollutants were in herring gull eggs and in common tern eggs. The lowest mean levels of pesticides were in crow eggs. In all eggs, DDE concentrations were lower than the critical threshold and it seems, cannot influence reproductive success.}, }
@article {pmid15091496, year = {1995}, author = {Fossi, MC and Massi, A and Lari, L and Marsili, L and Focardi, S and Leonzio, C and Renzoni, A}, title = {Interspecies differences in mixed function oxidase activity in birds: Relationship between feeding habits, detoxication activities and organochlorine accumulation.}, journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)}, volume = {90}, number = {1}, pages = {15-24}, doi = {10.1016/0269-7491(94)00098-x}, pmid = {15091496}, issn = {0269-7491}, abstract = {The relationship between feeding habits and interspecies differences in the detoxication ability of the mixed function oxidase (MFO) system was investigated in birds. The role of MFO (particularly aldrin epoxidase activity) in the detoxication/bioaccumulation of organochlorines was also investigated. Euriphagic (yellow-legged herring gull (Larus cachinnans), black-headed gull (Larus ridibundus), jackdaw (Corvus monedula), magpie (Pica pica) and stenophagic (cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo), coot (Fulica atra) and sparrow (Passer italiae)) species were collected in northern and central Italy. The following liver microsomal monooxygenase activities were measured: aldrin epoxidase, ethoxyresorufin dealkylation (EROD), benzyloxyresorufin dealkylation (BROD) and pentoxyresorufin dealkylation (PROD). NADPH-and NADH-cytochrome c reductase (NAD(P)H-CYT-CRED) and NADH-ferricyanide reductase (NADH-FERRIRED) activities were also measured in the liver microsomal fraction. Glutathione concentration (GSH) was measured in the liver cytosolic fraction. As a marker of liver damage gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGTP) activity was assayed in the serum. The residues of organochlorines (HCB, pp'DDTs and PCBs) were determined in muscle samples. Omnivorous species, particularly the yellow-legged herring gull, had the highest aldrin epoxidase activities. In the yellow-legged herring gull the activity was approximately twice as high as in the jackdaw (p < 0.05), black-headed gull (p < 0.05) and coot (p < 0.05). Values five times lower were detected in the specialist fish-eater, the cormorant (p < 0.001). The lowest values of aldrin epoxidase activity were detected in the sparrow. Feeding habits were found to be related to evolutionary interspecies differences in MFO activity. A significant statistical correlation (r = 0.656) was found between the 'omnivore index' and MFO detoxication activity expressed as aldrin epoxidation. Organochlorines, and particularly PCBs, were higher in cormorants and yellow-legged herring gulls from a polluted lagoon than in the other species analysed (black-headed gull p < 0.01; sparrow p < 0.001; jackdaw p < 0.01; coot p < 0.001). Levels of pp'DDE were much higher in the cormorant and sparrow than in the other birds. Knowledge of the different species-specific detoxication abilities was found to be a useful tool for the identification of species potentially at risk in environments with high pollution by chlorinated hydrocarbons, or in general contaminants metabolized by the MFO system.}, }
@article {pmid17812340, year = {1993}, author = {Izett, GA and Cobban, WA and Obradovich, JD and Kunk, MJ}, title = {The Manson Impact Structure: 40Ar/39Ar Age and Its Distal Impact Ejecta in the Pierre Shale in Southeastern South Dakota.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {262}, number = {5134}, pages = {729-732}, doi = {10.1126/science.262.5134.729}, pmid = {17812340}, issn = {0036-8075}, abstract = {The (40)Ar/(39)Ar ages of a sanidine clast from a melt-matrix breccia of the Manson, Iowa, impact structure (MIS) indicate that the MIS formed 73.8 +/- 0.3 million years ago (Ma) and is not coincident with the Cretaceous-Tertiary boundary (64.43 +/- 0.05 Ma). The MIS sanidine is 9 million years older than (40)Ar/(39)Ar age spectra of MIS shock-metamorphosed microcline and melt-matrix breccia interpreted earlier to be 64 to 65 Ma. Grains of shock-metamorphosed quartz, feldspar, and zircon were found in the Crow Creek Member (upper Campanian) at a biostratigraphic level constrained by radiometric ages in the Pierre Shale of South Dakota that are consistent with the (40)Ar/(39)Ar age of 73.8 +/- 0.3 Ma for MIS reported herein.}, }
@article {pmid17424208, year = {1993}, author = {Machin, K and Langelier, KM and Lewis, RJ}, title = {British Columbia. Aspergillosis Outbreak in Stellar's jays (Cyanocitta stelleri) from central Vancouver Island.}, journal = {The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne}, volume = {34}, number = {4}, pages = {247-248}, pmid = {17424208}, issn = {0008-5286}, }
@article {pmid18670984, year = {1992}, author = {Uterak, I and Hejlicek, K and Nezval, J and Folk, C}, title = {Incidence of Toxoplasma gondii in populations of wild birds in the Czech Republic.}, journal = {Avian pathology : journal of the W.V.P.A}, volume = {21}, number = {4}, pages = {659-665}, doi = {10.1080/03079459208418887}, pmid = {18670984}, issn = {0307-9457}, abstract = {The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii was isolated from 193 individuals of 25 wild avian species, in a survey between 1981 and 90 in which 5880 individuals, comprising 76 species, were examined. The incidence of T. gondii was 18% in rooks (Corvus frugilegus), 12% in mallards (Anas platyrhynchos), 8% in common buzzards (Buteo buteo), 2% in pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) and 0.5% in house sparrows (Passer domesticus) and differed significantly in these species (X(2) test, P<0.001). In rooks, the cysts of T. gondii were found in the heart, brain, sex organs, skeletal muscle and liver.}, }
@article {pmid17423990, year = {1992}, author = {Keller, CB}, title = {Bilateral extraction of cataracts in a crow.}, journal = {The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne}, volume = {33}, number = {4}, pages = {273-274}, pmid = {17423990}, issn = {0008-5286}, }
@article {pmid18647692, year = {1992}, author = {Lipponi, G and Gasparrini, PM and Lucantoni, C and Cadeddu, G and Gaetti, R}, title = {Peripheral neuropathy and multiple myeloma in aging: a case report.}, journal = {Archives of gerontology and geriatrics}, volume = {15 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {229-235}, doi = {10.1016/s0167-4943(05)80022-6}, pmid = {18647692}, issn = {0167-4943}, abstract = {A 67-year-old man affected by moderate weight loss, acral paresthesia and plantar burning sensation was admitted to our department. Electromyographic (EMG) and electroneurographic (ENG) studies confirmed a peripheral, asymmetrical, motor-sensorial polyneuropathy (PPN). Hematological data and bone marrow biopsy discovered a non-secerning multiple myeloma (MM). All other probable causes of peripheral neuropathy could be excluded, and the possible relationship between nerve damage and neoplasia was confirmed. Furthermore, all possibilities of association of MM with PPn, namely the osteosclerotic variant, the Crow-Fukase syndrome, and the amyloid one have been evaluated. The only finding of osteolytic bone areas by radiology, the absence of organomegaly, diabetes mellitus, skin alterations, and of amyloid deposition in muscles and nerves, exclude the possible connection of the case to any of the listed possibilities. On the other hand, some clinical aspects differ, in part, to others described in the literature. In conclusion, the association between PPN and MM as the result of multiform clinical variants could be considered.}, }
@article {pmid17808247, year = {1990}, author = {Walsh, B}, title = {Population Biology of Genes and Molecules. Naouki Takahata and James F. Crow, Eds. Baifukan, Tokyo, 1990. xii, 370 pp., illus. {yen}9,270. From a symposium, Tokyo, Dec. 1988.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {250}, number = {4977}, pages = {144-145}, doi = {10.1126/science.250.4977.144-a}, pmid = {17808247}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid17782815, year = {1990}, author = {Morris, PJ}, title = {Synthetic Fuel Technology Development in the United States. A Retrospective Assessment. Michael Crow, Barry Bozeman, Walter Meyer, and Ralph Shangraw, Jr. Praeger, Westport, CT, 1988. xiv, 175 pp. $39.95.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {247}, number = {4950}, pages = {1593-1594}, doi = {10.1126/science.247.4950.1593}, pmid = {17782815}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid18620313, year = {1990}, author = {Dougherty, WJ}, title = {Sem observations on the interfacial surface of the cement of the adult barnacle, attached to natural and synthetic adherends.}, journal = {Tissue &amp; cell}, volume = {22}, number = {4}, pages = {463-470}, doi = {10.1016/0040-8166(90)90075-k}, pmid = {18620313}, issn = {0040-8166}, abstract = {The barnacle, Chthamalus fragilis Darwin, is found attached to a variety of natural and man-made substrates in the marine environment. Bases of specimens of this species attached to the leaves and stalks of marsh grass, Spartina alterniflora, and to polyethylene films placed in the high intertidal zone of the marsh were studied by scanning electron microscopy in order to determine the interfacial features of the cement holding these animals in place. When removed carefully, the interfacial surfaces of the barnacle cement appeared as finely detailed replicas of the leaf surfaces and of the polyethylene film surfaces, mimicking the highly contoured surface features and peripheral interdigitations of the adjacent epithelial cells which compose the surfaces of the leaves and 'crow's foot' and linear perturbations in the relatively smooth polyethylene films. These observations indicate that the bioadhesive secretion of this barnacle species loses its liquidity and becomes a hardened adhesive cement. It is probable that this mold-like replication of adherend surface details contributes to barnacle adhesion by mechanical interaction between the barnacle cement and the adherend surfaces.}, }
@article {pmid18679867, year = {1989}, author = {Reece, RL}, title = {Hepatic coccidiosis (Eimeria sp) in a wild magpie-lark (Grallina cyanoleuca).}, journal = {Avian pathology : journal of the W.V.P.A}, volume = {18}, number = {2}, pages = {357-362}, doi = {10.1080/03079458908418609}, pmid = {18679867}, issn = {0307-9457}, abstract = {Marked distension of the bile ducts was associated with various stages of a protozoan life-cycle which were identified as schizogony and gametogony. The bile ducts contained oocysts some of which were sporulated and had four sporocysts, each with two sporozoites, thus conforming to the genus Eimeria. This is the first report of a coccidian parasite in the bile duct epithelial cells of birds. It is proposed that this coccidia be named Eimeria grallinida ns.}, }
@article {pmid14591130, year = {1989}, author = {Parks, RW and Crockett, DJ and McGeer, PL}, title = {Systems model of cortical organization: positron emission tomography and neuropsychological test performance.}, journal = {Archives of clinical neuropsychology : the official journal of the National Academy of Neuropsychologists}, volume = {4}, number = {4}, pages = {335-349}, pmid = {14591130}, issn = {0887-6177}, abstract = {Positron Emission Tomography (PET) has allowed researchers to examine in vivo brain-behavior relationships. Correlations of metabolic increases measured by PET with simple sensory tasks involving hearing, vision, and tactile/motor responses have generally produced metabolic changes in agreement with known neuronal pathways. However, complex neuropsychological tests such as Raven's Matrices and Verbal Fluency have resulted in cortical activation of unexpected areas as well as some negative correlations between test performance and metabolism. These observations provide the first demonstration of complex relationships between neuropsychological functioning and activation of the normal brain. Since PET technology offers a means of computing the simultaneous proportional contribution of multiple brain regions, the issue of "localization" of neuropsychological test performance might appropriately be considered for redefinition in terms of a "systems" approach. In spite of the advances brought about by PET, methodological problems still remain for researchers. Future studies will need to take into account the subtle regional effects of neuropsychological paradigms.}, }
@article {pmid17812785, year = {1987}, author = {Blackman, MB}, title = {A Museum Centenary: Raven's Journey.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {236}, number = {4804}, pages = {1005-1006}, doi = {10.1126/science.236.4804.1005}, pmid = {17812785}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid15237314, year = {1987}, author = {Mikawa, K and Hoshino, Y and Obara, H and Iwai, S}, title = {Anesthetic management of a patient with Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {Journal of anesthesia}, volume = {1}, number = {1}, pages = {102-104}, pmid = {15237314}, issn = {0913-8668}, }
@article {pmid19456966, year = {1987}, author = {Schmidt, C and Camus, C and Caudiu, H and Her, C and Soudant, E and Bazin, R}, title = {[Not Available].}, journal = {International journal of cosmetic science}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {21-28}, doi = {10.1111/j.1467-2494.1987.tb00457.x}, pmid = {19456966}, issn = {0142-5463}, abstract = {Synopsis Several methods exist for measuring cutaneous relief. Profilometry allows the measurement of the profile of a skin-positive araldite replica. Image analysis detects and measures shadows behind the crests created by glazing lighting on a negative silicone skin replica. We have studied the correlation between both methods for twenty-nine crow's feet replicas. The area explored by image analysis is a circle of fifteen millimeters diameter. The areas explored by profilometry are, on one hand, ten scans 9500 mum long at intervals of 60 mum, i.e., 5.13 mm(2) (D 60 mum), and on the other hand ten scans of the same length at intervals of 900 mum, i.e., 76.95 mm(2) (D 900 mum). All parameters of peak height and surface were correlated. The best correlations were obtained between image analysis and profilometry for D 900 mum. In this case the P parameter (wrinkles depth measured by image analysis) was influenced for 46% by surface S under the peaks and for 33.5% by the peak height H measured by profilometry. In the same way the coefficient of developed skin surface CDSS was influenced for 45% by H and for 44% by S. The field of analysis common to both methods was found to be middle wrinkles with depth between 45 and 100 mum.}, }
@article {pmid17769571, year = {1986}, author = {Nelson, DE and Morlan, RE and Vogel, JS and Southon, JR and Harington, CR}, title = {New dates on northern yukon artifacts: holocene not upper pleistocene.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {232}, number = {4751}, pages = {749-751}, doi = {10.1126/science.232.4751.749}, pmid = {17769571}, issn = {0036-8075}, abstract = {New radiocarbon dates on four artifacts that were thought to provide evidence for human occupation of the Yukon Territory during the upper Pleistocene indicate that all four are of late Holocene age. The original radiocarbon age obtained for one artifact (the so-called "Old Crow flesher") was in error by almost 26,000 years.}, }
@article {pmid18223704, year = {1985}, author = {Seguin, VA and Seguin, HJ and Capjack, CE}, title = {Electrical characteristics of a MAGPIE coaxial laser discharge system.}, journal = {Applied optics}, volume = {24}, number = {9}, pages = {1265}, doi = {10.1364/ao.24.001265}, pmid = {18223704}, issn = {1559-128X}, }
@article {pmid17795345, year = {1985}, author = {Ligon, JD}, title = {Cooperation in birds: the Florida scrub jay.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {227}, number = {4694}, pages = {1573-1574}, doi = {10.1126/science.227.4694.1573}, pmid = {17795345}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid16663488, year = {1984}, author = {Silk, WK and Walker, RC and Labavitch, J}, title = {Uronide Deposition Rates in the Primary Root of Zea mays.}, journal = {Plant physiology}, volume = {74}, number = {3}, pages = {721-726}, pmid = {16663488}, issn = {0032-0889}, abstract = {The spatial distribution of the rate of deposition of uronic acids in the elongation zone of Zea mays L. Crow WF9 x Mo 17 was determined using the continuity equation with experimentally determined values for uronide density and growth velocity. In spatial terms, the uronide deposition rate has a maximum of 0.4 micrograms per millimeter per hour at s = 3.5 mm (i.e., at the location 3.5 mm from the root tip) and decreases to 0.1 mg mm(-1) h(-1) by s = 10 mm. In terms of a material tissue element, a tissue segment located initially from s = 2.0 to s = 2.1 mm has 0.14 mug of uronic acids and increases in both length and uronic acid content until it is 0.9 mm long and has 0.7 mug of uronide when its center is at s = 10 mm. Simulations of radioactive labeling experiments show that 15 min is the appropriate time scale for pulse determinations of deposition rate profiles in a rapidly growing corn root.}, }
@article {pmid16663165, year = {1983}, author = {Johanson, JG and Cheeseman, JM}, title = {Uptake and distribution of sodium and potassium by corn seedlings : I. Role of the mesocotyl in ;sodium exclusion'.}, journal = {Plant physiology}, volume = {73}, number = {1}, pages = {153-158}, pmid = {16663165}, issn = {0032-0889}, abstract = {The distribution of sodium and potassium throughout corn (Zea mays L. [A632 x Crows 3640] x Oh 43) plants is not simply a matter of uptake by cortical cells and irreversible delivery to the xylem for upward transport. We show that sodium, but not potassium, accumulates in the mesocotyl of corn seedlings grown on NaCl medium. Upon transfer to NaCl-free medium, total sodium is reduced by export through the roots but remains at high levels within the mesocotyl. We report experiments which consider uptake from the xylem.Shoots excised at the seed were allowed to transpire solutions containing (22)Na and (42)K. Potassium uptake within the mesocotyl was very sensitive to concentration, increasing 27-fold between 1 and 10 millimolar. Sodium uptake was dependent upon the square root of the concentration suggesting active accumulation. At sodium concentrations below 1 millimolar, more than 80% of the sodium in the plant was retained in the mesocotyl. Both the uptake by and retention within the mesocotyl were dependent upon transpiration rate as well as concentration. We discuss the limitations of measuring uptake from a finite, depletable medium. The mesocotyl is a modified root with a cuticularized epidermis. We discuss the feasibility of using this ;plastic-coated root' as a model for root transport studies.}, }
@article {pmid17795833, year = {1983}, author = {Nicolaus, LK and Cassel, JF and Carlson, RB and Gustavson, CR}, title = {Taste-aversion conditioning of crows to control predation on eggs.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {220}, number = {4593}, pages = {212-214}, doi = {10.1126/science.220.4593.212}, pmid = {17795833}, issn = {0036-8075}, abstract = {Free-ranging crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) that ate chicken eggs that were painted green and contained a nonlethal toxin subsequently avoided green eggs at various locations, whether or not they contained toxin. The crows also continued to eat unpainted and nontoxic chicken eggs. Illness-induced aversions among predators in nature may be a powerful determiner of the evolution of Batesian mimicry and, in human hands, serve as a practical tool for wildlife ecologists.}, }
@article {pmid16662746, year = {1982}, author = {Dupont, FM and Giorgi, DL and Spanswick, RM}, title = {Characterization of a proton-translocating ATPase in microsomal vesicles from corn roots.}, journal = {Plant physiology}, volume = {70}, number = {6}, pages = {1694-1699}, pmid = {16662746}, issn = {0032-0889}, abstract = {Sealed microsomal vesicles were prepared from corn (Zea mays, Crow Single Cross Hybrid WF9-Mo17) roots by centrifugation of a 10,000 to 80,000g microsomal fraction onto a 10% dextran T-70 cushion. The Mg(2+)-ATPase activity of the sealed vesicles was stimulated by Cl(-) and NH(4) (+) and by ionophores and protonophores such as 2 micromolar gramicidin or 10 micromolar carbonyl cyanide p-trifluoromethoxyphenyl hydrazone (FCCP). The ionophore-stimulated ATPase activity had a broad pH optimum with a maximum at pH 6.5. The ATPase was inhibited by NO(3) (-), was insensitive to K(+), and was not inhibited by 100 micromolar vanadate or by 1 millimolar azide.Quenching of quinacrine fluorescence was used to measure ATP-dependent acidification of the intravesicular volume. Quenching required Mg(2+), was stimulated by Cl(-), inhibited by NO(3) (-), was insensitive to monovalent cations, was unaffected by 200 micromolar vanadate, and was abolished by 2 micromolar gramicidin or 10 micromolar FCCP. Activity was highly specific for ATP. The ionophore-stimulated ATPase and ATP-dependent fluorescence quench both required a divalent cation (Mg(2+) >/= Mn(2+) > Co(2+)) and were inhibited by high concentrations of Ca(2+). The similarity of the ionophore-stimulated ATPase and quinacrine quench and the responses of the two to ions suggest that both represent the activity of the same ATP-dependent proton pump. The characteristics of the proton-translocating ATPase differed from those of the mitochondrial F(1)F(0)-ATPase and from those of the K(+)-stimulated ATPase of corn root plasma membranes, and resembled those of the tonoplast ATPase.}, }
@article {pmid16662623, year = {1982}, author = {Dupont, FM and Bennett, AB and Spanswick, RM}, title = {Localization of a proton-translocating ATPase on sucrose gradients.}, journal = {Plant physiology}, volume = {70}, number = {4}, pages = {1115-1119}, pmid = {16662623}, issn = {0032-0889}, abstract = {Ionophore-stimulated ATPase activity and ATP-dependent quinacrine quench were enriched in parallel when microsomal vesicles were prepared from corn (Crow Single Cross Hybrid WF9-Mo17) roots and collected on a cushion of 10% dextran. Activities were highest in the apical 1.5 centimeters of the roots. Vesicles collected on the dextran cushion also contained NADH cytochrome c reductase (enriched in the apical 0.5 cm of the root) and nucleoside diphosphatase (distributed throughout the first four cm). On continuous sucrose gradients, ATP-dependent proton transport and ionophore-stimulated ATPase activity coincided in a broad band extending from 1.08 to 1.15 grams per cubic centimeter with maximum activity at 1.10 to 1.12 grams per cubic centimeter. Large portions of the proton-translocating ATPase activity and ionophore-stimulated ATPase activity were clearly separable from mitochondrial membranes containing cytochrome c oxidase activity and azide-sensitive, pH 8.5 ATPase activity and from membranes bearing beta-glucan synthetase I and II. The vesicles coincided with a minor portion of the NADH-cytochrome c reductase and nucleoside diphosphatase activities. It is suggested that the vesicles are of tonoplast origin.}, }
@article {pmid17249120, year = {1981}, author = {Slatkin, M}, title = {Estimating levels of gene flow in natural populations.}, journal = {Genetics}, volume = {99}, number = {2}, pages = {323-335}, pmid = {17249120}, issn = {0016-6731}, abstract = {The results from a simulation model of selection, mutation and genetic drift in a geographically subdivided population are presented. The infinite-alleles mutation model of Kimura and Crow (1964) is asumed, and both advantageous and deleterious mutations are considered. It is shown that the average frequency of an allele conditioned on the number of local populations it appears in-the conditional average frequency-is approximately independent of both the selection intensity and mutation rates assumed, but depends strongly on the overall level of gene flow. This result justifies the use of the conditional average frequency to obtain a rough estimate of the level of gene flow in a subdivided population. Data from 16 species are presented and discussed. There are large differences in the conditional average frequencies of different species, although there is some consistency within taxa. Some species apparently have high levels of gene flow and others, particularly salamanders, have low levels. Alternative explanations for the patterns found in the data are considered.}, }
@article {pmid17802545, year = {1981}, author = {Stanford, D and Bonnichsen, R and Morlan, RE}, title = {The ginsberg experiment: modern and prehistoric evidence of a bone-flaking technology.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {212}, number = {4493}, pages = {438-440}, doi = {10.1126/science.212.4493.438}, pmid = {17802545}, issn = {0036-8075}, abstract = {The discovery of butchered and modified bones of extinct Pleistocene fauna from Old Crow Flats, Yukon Territory, and the Dutton and Selby sites, Colorado, provides some of the earliest evidence for man in the New World. However, the significance of these discoveries rests entirely on the ability to determine whether these remains were modified by man. The results of experiments of elephant butchering, bone fracturing, and bone tool manufacturing support the hypothesis that these modified bones can be used to identify the presence of cultural activities.}, }
@article {pmid17819042, year = {1981}, author = {Brown, JL and Brown, ER}, title = {Extended family system in a communal bird.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {211}, number = {4485}, pages = {959-960}, doi = {10.1126/science.211.4485.959}, pmid = {17819042}, issn = {0036-8075}, abstract = {The genealogical structure of an extended family system in a nonprimate species is described. In Mexican jays, social units are more complex genealogically than in most other communal birds and may contain grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins in addition to parents and older siblings. The average relatedness within the units varies greatly, and is lower than would be expected for a highly social bird.}, }
@article {pmid17831471, year = {1980}, author = {Högstedt, G}, title = {Evolution of clutch size in birds: adaptive variation in relation to territory quality.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {210}, number = {4474}, pages = {1148-1150}, doi = {10.1126/science.210.4474.1148}, pmid = {17831471}, issn = {0036-8075}, abstract = {Reproductive output from enlarged or reduced magpie broods showed that each female generally lays a clutch of optimal size. This size varies considerably between females. Approximately 85 percent of the within-years variation in clutch size was associated with differences between territories. Colonial bird species, lacking individual foraging territories, have a smaller clutch size variation than territorial species.}, }
@article {pmid17756814, year = {1980}, author = {}, title = {Erratum.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {209}, number = {4456}, pages = {544}, doi = {10.1126/science.209.4456.544-e}, pmid = {17756814}, issn = {0036-8075}, abstract = {In the report "Associative behavioral modification in Hermissenda: Cellular correlates" by T. J. Crow and D. L. Alkon (18 July, p. 412), the last sentence on page 412, column 2, paragraph 1, should read, "We have now found that modification of the photopositive response in Hermissenda is correlated with cellular changes in the type B photo-receptors."}, }
@article {pmid17249043, year = {1980}, author = {Trippa, G and Loverre, A and Cicchetti, R}, title = {Cytogenetic Analysis of an SD Chromosome from a Natural Population of DROSOPHILA MELANOGASTER.}, journal = {Genetics}, volume = {95}, number = {2}, pages = {399-412}, pmid = {17249043}, issn = {0016-6731}, abstract = {The discovery and the cytogenetic characterization of a new SD (Segregation Distorter) chromosome 2 from a natural population in Ranna (Sicily, Italy), SD(Ra), are reported. The main features of this chromosome are as follows: (a) it contains an Sd(Ra) gene with a moderate degree of segregation distortion (k = 0.72), (b) a recessive female sterile gene, fs(2)(TLM), responsible for modifications of the morphology and structure of the tests and ovaries is located at 89.7, (c) SD(Ra)/SD(Ra) males and females are viable but sterile, the females due to homozygosis of fs(2)(TLM) and the males because of homozygosis of a region containing the Sd locus, and (d) SDi/SDj combinations are fertile, thus suggesting that the different Sd factors found in natural populations constitute a multiple allelic series.-These data may indicate that each population containing SD chromosomes has evolved its own genetic architecture for the complex SD system, with specific modifiers and perhaps different Sd genes. The possibility of reconstructing the evolutionary pattern of the SD(Ra) chromosome in the natural Ranna population after the model of Charlesworth and Hartl (1978) and Crow (1979) is considered.}, }
@article {pmid18810164, year = {1980}, author = {Subotnick, SI}, title = {The foot and its relationship to gait: a series of articles and editorial comments.}, journal = {The Journal of orthopaedic and sports physical therapy}, volume = {2}, number = {2}, pages = {48-54}, doi = {10.2519/jospt.1980.2.2.48}, pmid = {18810164}, issn = {0190-6011}, abstract = {The following series of articles by various authors is presented to inform the readers of some current concepts in biomechanics of gait and podiatric sports medicine. Better understanding of the contents should facilitate health care delivery in orthopaedic and sports physical therapy: 1) The Foot and Sports Medicine-Biomechanical Foot Faults as Related to Chondromalacia Patellae*David Ramig, DPM, Jay Shadle, DPM, C. Allen Watkins, DPM, Daniel Cavolo, DPM,Jeffrey R. Kreutzberg, DPM, PhD, RPT 2) The Foot and Chondromalacia-A Case of Biomechanical Uncertainty?Dr. J. G. P. Williams, Secretary General J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 1980;2(2):48-54.}, }
@article {pmid17248992, year = {1980}, author = {Fuerst, PA and Ferrell, RE}, title = {The stepwise mutation model: an experimental evaluation utilizing hemoglobin variants.}, journal = {Genetics}, volume = {94}, number = {1}, pages = {185-201}, pmid = {17248992}, issn = {0016-6731}, abstract = {The stepwise mutation model of Ohta and Kimura (1973) was proposed to explain patterns of genetic variability revealed by means of electrophoresis. The assumption that electrophoretic mobility was principally determined by unit changes in net molecular charge has been criticized by Johnson (1974, 1977). This assumption has been tested directly using hemoglobin. Twenty-seven human hemoglobin variants with known amino acid substitutions, and 26 nonhuman hemoglobins with known sequences were studied by starch gel electrophoresis. Of these hemoglobins, 60 to 70% had electrophoretic mobilities that could be predicted solely on the basis of net charge calculated from the amino acid composition alone, ignoring tertiary structure. Only four hemoglobins showed a mobility that was clearly different from an expected mobility calculated using only the net charge of the molecule. For the remaining 30% of hemoglobins studied, mobility was determined by a combination of net charge and other unidentified components, probably reflecting changes in ionization of some amino acid residues as a result of small alterations in tertiary structure due to the amino acid substitution in the variant. For the nonhuman hemoglobins, the deviation of a sample from its expected mobility increased with increasing amino acid divergence from human hemoglobin A.-It is concluded that the net electrostatic charge of a molecule is the principal determinant of electrophoretic mobility under the conditions studied. However, because of the significant deviation from strict stepwise mobility detected for 30 to 40% of the variants studied, it is further concluded that the infinite-allele model of Kimura and Crow (1964) or a "mixed model" such as that proposed by Li (1976) may be more appropriate than the stepwise mutation model for the analysis of much of the available electrophoretic data from natural populations.}, }
@article {pmid16592765, year = {1980}, author = {Cockerham, CC and Burrows, PM}, title = {Selection limits and strategies.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {77}, number = {1}, pages = {546-549}, pmid = {16592765}, issn = {0027-8424}, abstract = {Strategies are analyzed for maximizing the ultimate limit to truncation selection for a quantitative trait in finite populations. By using a formulation of Kimura and Crow [Kimura, M. &amp; Crow, J. F. (1978) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 75, 6168-6171], it is shown that the limit is maximized by truncating at the mode with the highest ordinate of the phenotypic distribution. This implies 50% selection for the normal or any unimodal symmetric distribution and, for skewed distributions, selection of more than one-half if desired phenotypes are in the long tail of the distribution, less than one-half if in the short tail. For dioecious populations, the optimal procedure requires, in addition, equal numbers recorded and selected of each sex. For monoecious populations the limit can be improved by using the best individuals mated to the next-best individuals. Limitations of the results are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid17813172, year = {1979}, author = {Pietrewicz, AT and Kamil, AC}, title = {Search Image Formation in the Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata).}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {204}, number = {4399}, pages = {1332-1333}, doi = {10.1126/science.204.4399.1332}, pmid = {17813172}, issn = {0036-8075}, abstract = {Blue jays trained to detect Catocala moths in slides were exposed to two types of slide series containing these moths: series of one species and series of two species intermixed. In one-species series, detection ability increased with successive encounters with one prey type. No similar effect occurred in two-species series. These results are a direct demonstration of a specific search image.}, }
@article {pmid17778703, year = {1977}, author = {}, title = {Erratum.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {196}, number = {4293}, pages = {965}, doi = {10.1126/science.196.4293.965}, pmid = {17778703}, issn = {0036-8075}, abstract = {According to the latest information the publisher has provided to Science the current price of The Nervous System (Donald B. Tower, Ed.; Raven Press), reviewed by John G. Hildebrand, 22 April 1977, p. 419, is $15 a volume, rather than $25 a volume and $65 for the three-volume set, the prices listed at the head of the review.}, }
@article {pmid17732294, year = {1977}, author = {Pietrewicz, AT and Kamil, AC}, title = {Visual Detection of Cryptic Prey by Blue Jays (Cyanocitta cristata).}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {195}, number = {4278}, pages = {580-582}, doi = {10.1126/science.195.4278.580}, pmid = {17732294}, issn = {0036-8075}, abstract = {Blue jays learned to respond differentially to the presence or absence of Catocala moths in slides. This detection of the moths by the jays was affected by the background upon which the moth was placed and its body orientation, thus providing an objective measure of crypticity. These procedures are useful for the study of visual detection of prey.}, }
@article {pmid16811906, year = {1976}, author = {Powell, RW and Kelly, W}, title = {Responding under positive and negative response contingencies in pigeons and crows.}, journal = {Journal of the experimental analysis of behavior}, volume = {25}, number = {2}, pages = {219-225}, pmid = {16811906}, issn = {0022-5002}, abstract = {Four crows were trained to key peck for food. Then, they were exposed to a positive response contingency that required them to peck the key when it was illuminated briefly (the trial) in order to receive food. This procedure resulted in consistent within-trial pecking. When the contingency changed so that food was presented at the end of a trial when no response occurred, but the trial terminated immediately and food was omitted when a response occurred (negative response contingency), responding decreased markedly. Eight pigeons were studied under the same change in contingencies. These birds varied in their response histories from naive to having several years' experience. The previously naive pigeons also showed rapid declines in responding under the negative contingency; the responding of the birds with extended training histories declined much more slowly. Eventually, however, six of the eight pigeons showed little or no responding under the negative contingency, while they responded consistently when re-exposed to the positive contingency. These findings question the power and the generality of the negative automaintenance phenomenon.}, }
@article {pmid16811876, year = {1975}, author = {Powell, RW and Kelly, W}, title = {A method for the objective study of tool-using behavior.}, journal = {Journal of the experimental analysis of behavior}, volume = {24}, number = {2}, pages = {249-253}, pmid = {16811876}, issn = {0022-5002}, abstract = {Key pecking for food was shaped in four crows within a conventional operant-conditioning test chamber. When pecking stabilized, a metal screen with openings 2.5 cm high by 1.0 cm wide, was placed over the response key, so that the crow could still see but could no longer peck the key. At the same time, several dozen wooden matchsticks, which could be used to operate the key, were placed in the test chamber. The crows made no use of these during 50 to 75 hr of exposure to this condition. Subsequently, the behavior of two crows was shaped so that they approached the matchsticks, picked one up in their beaks, approached the response key with the matchstick in their beak, and finally operated the response key by poking the matchstick through the screen. This shaping procedure was ineffective with the two other crows. However, these birds were successfully trained through positional fading of the tool. This involved suspending a metal rod from the ceiling so that it hung directly in front of the response key, and the crow had only to peck it to operate the key. Then, the rod was gradually lowered by lengthening its tether until it eventually rested on the floor of the test chamber. The principal advantage of this methodology is the automatic recording of the terminal (tool-using) behavior under study.}, }
@article {pmid17806587, year = {1973}, author = {Jones, TB and Kamil, AC}, title = {Tool-making and tool-using in the northern blue jay.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {180}, number = {4090}, pages = {1076-1078}, doi = {10.1126/science.180.4090.1076}, pmid = {17806587}, issn = {0036-8075}, abstract = {Laboratory-raised Northeirn blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) have been observed tearing pieces from pages of newspaper and utilizing them as tools to rake in food pellets which were otherwise out of reach. The frequency of this behavior was dependenit upon the motivational state of the jay and the presence of food pellets.}, }
@article {pmid17829293, year = {1972}, author = {G, R}, title = {Crow creek: case history of an "ecological disaster".}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {176}, number = {4037}, pages = {891}, doi = {10.1126/science.176.4037.891}, pmid = {17829293}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid16562097, year = {1966}, author = {Protass, JJ and Korn, D}, title = {Impairment of Temperate Bacteriophage Adsorption by Brief Treatment of Escherichia coli with Dilute Solutions of Ethylenediaminetetraacetate.}, journal = {Journal of bacteriology}, volume = {91}, number = {1}, pages = {143-147}, pmid = {16562097}, issn = {0021-9193}, abstract = {Protass, Jay J. (National Institute of Arthritis and Metabolic Diseases, Bethesda, Md.), and David Korn. Impairment of temperate bacteriophage adsorption by brief treatment of Escherichia coli with dilute solutions of ethylenediaminetetraacetate. J. Bacteriol. 91:143-147. 1966.-Cells of Escherichia coli K-12 treated for 2 min with 2 x 10(-4)m ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA) are unable to adsorb the temperate bacteriophages lambdavir and 434 but show no impairment of their ability to adsorb T-even phages or T5. This finding is consistent with the hypothesis that there are basic structural differences between the cell-wall receptors involved in the adsorption of the temperate and T classes of coliphages.}, }
@article {pmid17751052, year = {1965}, author = {Eisner, T}, title = {Defensive Spray of a Phasmid Insect.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {148}, number = {3672}, pages = {966-968}, doi = {10.1126/science.148.3672.966}, pmid = {17751052}, issn = {0036-8075}, abstract = {The walkingstick, Anisomorpha buprestoides, has two defensive glands in its thorax from which it ejects an aimed spray when disturbed. Contact stimulation is the usual trigger for the discharge, but birds may elicit the spray by merely approaching the insect. The secretion proved effectively deterrent to ants, predaceous beetles, mice, and blue jays, but not to an opossum.}, }
@article {pmid14479490, year = {1962}, author = {NICKOLS, JE}, title = {Insight, superior intelligence, and the Raven Progressive Matrices, set E.}, journal = {Journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {18}, number = {}, pages = {351}, doi = {10.1002/1097-4679(196207)18:3&lt;351::aid-jclp2270180336&gt;3.0.co;2-s}, pmid = {14479490}, issn = {0021-9762}, mesh = {Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Problem Solving ; }, }
@article {pmid14464674, year = {1962}, author = {LEVINSON, BM}, title = {Positional and figural errors made by the aged on Raven coloured progressive matrices.}, journal = {The Journal of genetic psychology}, volume = {100}, number = {}, pages = {183-192}, doi = {10.1080/00221325.1962.10533587}, pmid = {14464674}, issn = {0022-1325}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; }, }
@article {pmid14464890, year = {1961}, author = {Lewis, M and Hildes, JA and Kaita, H and Chown, B}, title = {The blood groups of the Kutchin Indians at Old Crow, Yukon Territory.}, journal = {American journal of physical anthropology}, volume = {19}, number = {4}, pages = {383-389}, doi = {10.1002/ajpa.1330190411}, pmid = {14464890}, issn = {0002-9483}, mesh = {Animals ; *Asian People ; Blood Group Antigens/*genetics ; *Chromosomes ; *Crows ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Yukon Territory ; }, }
@article {pmid14368439, year = {1955}, author = {ROBINSON, EJ}, title = {Observations of the epizootiology of filarial infections in two species of the avian family corvidae.}, journal = {The Journal of parasitology}, volume = {41}, number = {2}, pages = {209-214}, pmid = {14368439}, issn = {0022-3395}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bird Diseases ; *Birds ; *Filariasis ; *Filarioidea ; }, }
@article {pmid14357642, year = {1954}, author = {ZAMPARO, D}, title = {[Raven's progressive matrices test administered individually to 200 normal adults].}, journal = {Rassegna di neuropsichiatria e scienze affini}, volume = {8}, number = {5-6}, pages = {313-328}, pmid = {14357642}, issn = {0048-6760}, mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; }, }
@article {pmid14378924, year = {1954}, author = {BRYGOO, ER and QUESNEL, JJ}, title = {[Microfilaria sanguinicole in Corvus albus of Madagascar].}, journal = {Bulletin de la Societe de pathologie exotique et de ses filiales}, volume = {47}, number = {6}, pages = {833-835}, pmid = {14378924}, mesh = {Filariasis/*transmission ; Humans ; }, }
@article {pmid14946754, year = {1952}, author = {SHNEIDMAN, ES}, title = {The case of Jay; psychological test and anamnestic data.}, journal = {Journal of projective techniques}, volume = {16}, number = {3}, pages = {297-345}, doi = {10.1080/08853126.1952.10380433}, pmid = {14946754}, mesh = {Humans ; *Psychological Tests ; }, }
@article {pmid14933345, year = {1952}, author = {ZOUTENDYK, A and LEVINE, P}, title = {A second example of the rare serum anti-jay (TJ).}, journal = {American journal of clinical pathology}, volume = {22}, number = {7}, pages = {630-633}, doi = {10.1093/ajcp/22.7.630}, pmid = {14933345}, issn = {0002-9173}, mesh = {*Blood Group Antigens ; Humans ; }, }
@article {pmid17648463, year = {1950}, author = {Mitchell, CA and Duthie, RC}, title = {Tuberculosis of the Common Crow.}, journal = {Canadian journal of comparative medicine and veterinary science}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {109-117}, pmid = {17648463}, issn = {0316-5957}, }
@article {pmid18107034, year = {1948}, author = {TRACHT, VS}, title = {Preliminary findings on testing the cerebral palsied with Raven's progressive matrices.}, journal = {Journal of exceptional children}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {77-79}, doi = {10.1177/001440294801500304}, pmid = {18107034}, issn = {0887-5405}, mesh = {*Cerebral Palsy ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; *Paralysis ; }, }
@article {pmid18128884, year = {1948}, author = {VOGET, F}, title = {Individual motivation in the diffusion of the Wind River Shoshone Sundance to the Crow Indians.}, journal = {American anthropologist}, volume = {50 Pt 1}, number = {4}, pages = {634-646}, doi = {10.1525/aa.1948.50.4.02a00060}, pmid = {18128884}, issn = {0002-7294}, mesh = {*American Indian or Alaska Native ; Animals ; *Asian People ; *Crows ; Humans ; *Motivation ; *Rivers ; *Wind ; }, }
@article {pmid17836451, year = {1946}, author = {Wheeler, CO}, title = {Homer Jay Wheeler, 1861-1945.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {103}, number = {2687}, pages = {751-752}, doi = {10.1126/science.103.2687.751-a}, pmid = {17836451}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid17833347, year = {1939}, author = {Beebe, W}, title = {THE BLUE JAY CACHED THE NUT.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {89}, number = {2312}, pages = {366}, doi = {10.1126/science.89.2312.366}, pmid = {17833347}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid17857328, year = {1939}, author = {Lund, FB}, title = {MEMOIR: FREDERIC JAY COTTON 1869-1938.}, journal = {Annals of surgery}, volume = {109}, number = {2}, pages = {317-319}, doi = {10.1097/00000658-193902000-00015}, pmid = {17857328}, issn = {0003-4932}, }
@article {pmid17732503, year = {1939}, author = {Gesell, A}, title = {WHAT DID THE BLUE JAY DO WITH THE NUT?.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {89}, number = {2298}, pages = {35}, doi = {10.1126/science.89.2298.35}, pmid = {17732503}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid16577488, year = {1932}, author = {Rowan, W}, title = {Experiments in Bird Migration: III. The Effects of Artificial Light, Castration and Certain Extracts on the Autumn Movements of the American Crow(Corvus brachyrhynchis).}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {18}, number = {11}, pages = {639-654}, pmid = {16577488}, issn = {0027-8424}, }
@article {pmid17835617, year = {1925}, author = {Daly, RA and Palache, C and Mather, KF}, title = {JAY BACKUS WOODWORTH.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {62}, number = {1612}, pages = {450-451}, doi = {10.1126/science.62.1612.450}, pmid = {17835617}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid17757756, year = {1925}, author = {}, title = {JAY BACKUS WOODWORTH.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {62}, number = {1598}, pages = {150}, doi = {10.1126/science.62.1598.150}, pmid = {17757756}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid17811238, year = {1921}, author = {Welsh, FR}, title = {CROWS AND STARLINGS.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {53}, number = {1377}, pages = {485}, doi = {10.1126/science.53.1377.485}, pmid = {17811238}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid17732654, year = {1896}, author = {Beal, FE}, title = {FOOD OF THE EUROPEAN ROOK (CORVUS FRUGILEGUS).}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {3}, number = {78}, pages = {918-919}, doi = {10.1126/science.3.78.918}, pmid = {17732654}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid17784431, year = {1893}, author = {Ridgeway, R}, title = {DESTRUCTION OF CROWS DURING THE RECENT COLD SPELL.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {21}, number = {523}, pages = {77}, doi = {10.1126/science.ns-21.523.77}, pmid = {17784431}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid17789409, year = {1883}, author = {Kneeland, S}, title = {Prehensile feet of the crows.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {2}, number = {30}, pages = {265-266}, doi = {10.1126/science.ns-2.30.265}, pmid = {17789409}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid17744698, year = {1883}, author = {Abbott, CC}, title = {Intelligence of the crow.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {1}, number = {20}, pages = {576}, doi = {10.1126/science.ns-1.20.576}, pmid = {17744698}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid17735429, year = {1883}, author = {Allen, JA}, title = {Intelligence of the crow.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {1}, number = {18}, pages = {513}, doi = {10.1126/science.ns-1.18.513-c}, pmid = {17735429}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid17808087, year = {1883}, author = {Wade, JM}, title = {Intelligence of the crow.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {1}, number = {16}, pages = {458}, doi = {10.1126/science.ns-1.16.458}, pmid = {17808087}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid17830549, year = {1883}, author = {Kneeland, S}, title = {Intelligence of the crow.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {1}, number = {13}, pages = {359}, doi = {10.1126/science.ns-1.13.359}, pmid = {17830549}, issn = {0036-8075}, }
@article {pmid13680463, year = {2003}, author = {Naismith, SL and Hickie, IB and Turner, K and Little, CL and Winter, V and Ward, PB and Wilhelm, K and Mitchell, P and Parker, G}, title = {Neuropsychological performance in patients with depression is associated with clinical, etiological and genetic risk factors.}, journal = {Journal of clinical and experimental neuropsychology}, volume = {25}, number = {6}, pages = {866-877}, doi = {10.1076/jcen.25.6.866.16472}, pmid = {13680463}, issn = {1380-3395}, mesh = {Adult ; Age of Onset ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Apolipoproteins E/genetics ; Cardiovascular Diseases/complications/physiopathology ; *Depressive Disorder, Major/epidemiology/genetics/physiopathology ; Female ; Genotype ; Humans ; Interviews as Topic ; Male ; Memory ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Psychometrics ; Psychomotor Disorders/complications/physiopathology ; Reaction Time ; *Risk Factors ; Trail Making Test ; Verbal Learning ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {The present study explores neuropsychological functioning in patients with depression with reference to key clinical, etiological and genetic features. In comparison to healthy volunteers, patients with severe depression demonstrated poorer performance on all neuropsychological tests except for WAIS-R Vocabulary and a 64-item computerized version of the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test. On average, patients exhibited significant impairments (greater than -2 standard deviation units) on tests of simple reaction time, Part B of the Trail Making Test and Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices. When performance decrements were analyzed with reference to key clinical features, patients with melancholia performed more poorly on WAIS-R Vocabulary, semantic fluency and choice reaction time than those with nonmelancholic depression. After controlling for age, those patients with late-onset depression (i.e., age of onset > or =50 years) exhibited poorer performance on a computerized version of the Tower of London test in comparison to those with an early onset. While there was no relationship between neuropsychological test scores and summed vascular risk factors or apolipoprotein E genotypes, presence of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene mutation was associated with slowed reaction time. The differential relationships between clinical, etiological and genetic risks and neuropsychological performance supports the presence of unique pathophysiological mechanisms in distinct subgroups of patients. These findings underscore the need to consider subtypes when investigating neuropsychological deficits in patients with depression.}, }
@article {pmid13679615, year = {2003}, author = {Buckley, A and Dawson, A and Moss, SR and Hinsley, SA and Bellamy, PE and Gould, EA}, title = {Serological evidence of West Nile virus, Usutu virus and Sindbis virus infection of birds in the UK.}, journal = {The Journal of general virology}, volume = {84}, number = {Pt 10}, pages = {2807-2817}, doi = {10.1099/vir.0.19341-0}, pmid = {13679615}, issn = {0022-1317}, mesh = {Alphavirus Infections/immunology/veterinary/virology ; Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/*blood ; Base Sequence ; Bird Diseases/immunology/*virology ; Birds/virology ; Encephalitis Viruses, Japanese/*immunology ; Encephalitis, Arbovirus/immunology/veterinary/virology ; Flavivirus Infections/immunology/veterinary/virology ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Neutralization Tests ; RNA, Viral/analysis ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Sindbis Virus/*immunology ; United Kingdom ; Viral Plaque Assay ; West Nile virus/classification/genetics/*immunology ; }, abstract = {The introduction and rapid dispersal of the African flavivirus West Nile virus (WNV) throughout North America, and the high fatality rate due to encephalitis in birds, horses, other wildlife species and humans, has attracted major attention worldwide. Usutu virus, another flavivirus, came to prominence in 2001, when it was identified as the agent responsible for a drop in the bird population in Austria; previously this encephalitic virus was found only in birds and mosquitoes in Africa. Sindbis virus, a pathogenic alphavirus that causes arthritis, is widespread throughout Africa, Europe, Asia and Australia, infecting a range of arthropods and vertebrates and is genetically related to encephalitic viruses in North America. Currently there is no evidence that any of these viruses cause disease in the UK. Here the presence of virus-specific neutralizing antibodies is reported in the sera of resident and migrant birds in the UK, implying that each of these viruses is being introduced to UK birds, possibly by mosquitoes. This is supported by nucleotide sequencing that identified three slightly different sequences of WNV RNA in tissues of magpies and a blackbird. The detection of specific neutralizing antibodies to WNV in birds provides a plausible explanation for the lack of evidence of a decrease in the bird population in the UK compared with North America. The potential health risk posed to humans and animals by these viruses circulating in the UK is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid13678680, year = {2003}, author = {Lee, SI and Parr, CS and Hwang, Y and Mindell, DP and Choe, JC}, title = {Phylogeny of magpies (genus Pica) inferred from mtDNA data.}, journal = {Molecular phylogenetics and evolution}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {250-257}, doi = {10.1016/s1055-7903(03)00096-4}, pmid = {13678680}, issn = {1055-7903}, mesh = {Animals ; Classification ; DNA, Mitochondrial/*genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; Geography ; Phylogeny ; Songbirds ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {We investigated the phylogenetic relationships of species and subspecies of the cosmopolitan genus Pica using 813 bp of the mitochondrial genome (including portions of 16s rDNA, tRNA-Leu, and ND1). The phylogenetic relationships within the genus Pica revealed in our molecular analyses can be summarized as follows: (1). the Korean magpie (Pica pica sericea) appears basal within the genus Pica; (2). the European magpie (Pica pica pica) shows a close relationship to the Kamchatkan magpie (Pica pica camtschatica); (3). two North American species (Pica hudsonia and Pica nuttalli) shows a sister-group relationship; (4). most importantly, the European+Kamchatkan clade appears more closely related to the North American clade than to Korean magpies. Based on these results and genetic distance data, it is possible that members of an ancestral magpie lineage in East Asia initially moved north to form Kamchatkan magpies and then crossed the Bering land bridge to found North American taxa. At a later date, a group might have split off from Kamchatkan magpies and migrated west to form the Eurasian subspecies. The divergence between the two North American taxa appears to have happened no later than the divergence of Eurasian subspecies and both processes appear to have been relatively rapid. Rather than the formation of P. hudsonia by re-colonization from an Asian magpie ancestor, as suggested by, our data suggest a shared ancestry between P. hudsonia and P. nuttalli. Based on the above findings, including phylogenetic placement of P. hudsonia and P. nuttalli as nested within the larger Pica pica clade, and the lack of evidence suggesting reproductive isolation within the genus Pica, we believe that the current classification may be inaccurate. A more conservative classification would recognize one monophyletic species (i.e., P. pica) and treat P. nuttalli and P. hudsonia as subspecies (i.e., P. p. nuttalli and P. p. hudsonia). More extensive studies on the population genetics and biogeography of magpies should be conducted to better inform any taxonomic decisions.}, }
@article {pmid12964466, year = {2002}, author = {Carr, NG}, title = {Bob's meltdown.}, journal = {Harvard business review}, volume = {80}, number = {1}, pages = {25-8; discussion 30-4, 124}, pmid = {12964466}, issn = {0017-8012}, mesh = {Administrative Personnel/*psychology ; Commerce/organization &amp; administration ; Electronic Mail ; *Employee Discipline ; Humans ; Institutional Management Teams ; *Interprofessional Relations ; Knowledge ; Organizational Case Studies ; Organizational Innovation ; Personnel Management ; Staff Development ; United States ; }, abstract = {Annette Innella is just coming into the lunchroom at Concord Machines when Bob Dunn starts screaming at her. After throwing his lunch tray against the wall, he stomps out, leaving Annette stunned. Naturally, Annette, the new senior VP for knowledge management, is beside herself. She knows her proposal to establish a cross-functional knowledge management committee is progressive thinking for this oldline manufacturer, but Bob's reaction is totally over the line. If Bob stays, she goes--that's all there is to it. Bob is contrite, but he's under a lot of pressure. The general manager of the Services Group, he's just returned from a two-week trip around the globe to gear up his troops to beat revenue targets again, despite shrinking budgets and hiring freezes. And what does he see when he gets back? An e-mail from Annette requesting that two of his best people devote half their time to what he calls her "idiotic" Knowledge Protocols Group. He's carrying the company on his back, and she's throwing this nonsense at him. Graphics specialist Paula Chancellor is surprised. Sure, Bob's gruff, but his staff loves him, and he's the only one of the big shots who ever talks to her. But HR director Nathan Singer is incensed; Bob's never been a team player, Singer complains, and it's time he learned a lesson. CEO Jay Nguyen is in a bind. Bob is his top manager; he brings in all the money. And even though future revenues are going to have to come from somewhere else, Jay is not totally behind Annette's initiative in the current business climate. He can't afford to lose Bob. But if he reins in Annette, it will look like he's condoning Bob's outburst. What should he do? Four commentators offer advice in this fictional case study.}, }
@article {pmid12963469, year = {2003}, author = {Suddendorf, T and Busby, J}, title = {Mental time travel in animals?.}, journal = {Trends in cognitive sciences}, volume = {7}, number = {9}, pages = {391-396}, doi = {10.1016/s1364-6613(03)00187-6}, pmid = {12963469}, issn = {1879-307X}, abstract = {Are humans alone in their ability to reminisce about the past and imagine the future? Recent evidence suggests that food-storing birds (scrub jays) have access to information about what they have stored where and when. This has raised the possibility of mental time travel (MTT) in animals and sparked similar research with other species. Here we caution that such data do not provide convincing evidence for MTT. Examination of characteristics of human MTT (e.g. non-verbal declaration, generativity, developmental prerequisites) points to other avenues as to how a case for animal MTT could be made. In light of the current lack of evidence, however, we maintain that MTT is a uniquely human characteristic.}, }
@article {pmid12953359, year = {2003}, author = {Howe, EG}, title = {Lessons from "Jay Carter".}, journal = {The Journal of clinical ethics}, volume = {14}, number = {1-2}, pages = {109-117}, pmid = {12953359}, issn = {1046-7890}, mesh = {Asperger Syndrome/psychology/therapy ; Beneficence ; Guidelines as Topic ; Humans ; Informed Consent/*ethics ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Narration ; Periodicals as Topic ; Personal Autonomy ; Physician-Patient Relations/*ethics ; Psychiatry/*ethics ; Publishing/*ethics ; }, }
@article {pmid12949843, year = {2003}, author = {Whalley, LJ and Fox, HC and Lemmon, HA and Duthie, SJ and Collins, AR and Peace, H and Starr, JM and Deary, IJ}, title = {Dietary supplement use in old age: associations with childhood IQ, current cognition and health.}, journal = {International journal of geriatric psychiatry}, volume = {18}, number = {9}, pages = {769-776}, doi = {10.1002/gps.915}, pmid = {12949843}, issn = {0885-6230}, mesh = {Aged ; Body Mass Index ; Child ; *Cognition ; Diet ; *Dietary Supplements ; Female ; *Health Status ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Psychological Tests ; Sex Factors ; Vitamins/blood ; }, abstract = {AIMS: Dietary supplement (DS) use is actively promoted among old people but there is little evidence in favour of DS use or information about the demographic, health and cognitive characteristics of DS users.<br><br>METHOD: We examined 176 healthy, old people without dementia all born in 1921 and living independently in the community. IQ scores aged about 11 years were available for all subjects. DS users were more often female, had a lower BMI and were taking fewer prescribed medications than non-users.<br><br>RESULTS: Usual dietary intake, as measured by food frequency questionnaire, did not differ between DS users and DS non-users. DS users were seen to have higher Vitamin C (p<0.05), alpha-carotene (p<0.05) and lower gamma-tocopherol (p<0.001) and homocysteine (p<0.01). DS users did not differ from DS non-users in years of education, indices of occupational code, current socio-economic category or parameters of cardiovascular or respiratory functions. DS users had higher (p<0.05) childhood IQ scores but did not differ in current Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score or performance on Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM) either before or after adjustment for childhood IQ.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: DS users may enjoy somewhat better general health than non-users but the source of this difference is unknown. Possible health benefits of DS use merit further study.}, }
@article {pmid12943634, year = {2003}, author = {Kumar, A}, title = {Observations on rectal cancer practice in Japan (report of the Ronald Raven Travelling Fellowship 2002).}, journal = {European journal of surgical oncology : the journal of the European Society of Surgical Oncology and the British Association of Surgical Oncology}, volume = {29}, number = {7}, pages = {630-631}, doi = {10.1016/s0748-7983(03)00103-3}, pmid = {12943634}, issn = {0748-7983}, mesh = {Fellowships and Scholarships ; Hepatectomy ; Humans ; Japan ; Liver Neoplasms/*secondary/*surgery ; Lymph Node Excision ; Lymphatic Metastasis ; Rectal Neoplasms/pathology/*surgery ; Risk Factors ; Survival Analysis ; Travel ; Treatment Outcome ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid12932102, year = {2003}, author = {Langevin, SA and Arroyo, J and Monath, TP and Komar, N}, title = {Host-range restriction of chimeric yellow fever-West Nile vaccine in fish crows (Corvus ossifragus).}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {69}, number = {1}, pages = {78-80}, pmid = {12932102}, issn = {0002-9637}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/immunology/prevention &amp; control/virology ; Birds/*immunology/*virology ; DNA, Recombinant/genetics ; Viral Envelope Proteins/genetics/immunology ; Viral Vaccines/genetics/*immunology ; Viremia ; West Nile Fever/immunology/*prevention &amp; control/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*immunology ; Yellow fever virus/*genetics ; }, abstract = {We evaluated a recombinant virus chimera, ChimeriVax-WN, in which the West Nile virus (WNV) surface protein genes (pre-membrane [prM] and envelope [E]) are substituted into the genome of the 17D vaccine strain yellow fever virus (YF-17D), as a vaccine candidate for protection of birds from WNV disease. Using fish crows (Corvus ossifragus) as a model, we found that none of eight crows that received two high doses of vaccine (approximately 100,000 plaque-forming units [PFU]) developed viremia and only one developed WNV-neutralizing antibodies. When challenged with subcutaneous injection of 2,000 PFU of WNV (NY99 strain), all eight developed viremia levels similar to unvaccinated control birds (n = 4). Two of the vaccinated birds died of the infection, compared with no mortality in the four controls. To further investigate the failure of the vaccine, we inoculated chickens with both the vaccine and YF-17D and found no evidence of replication with either of these viruses. These data indicate that this vaccine candidate failed to protect birds from the morbidity and mortality attributed to WNV infections. However, if used in mammals, this recombinant viral vaccine is unlikely to inadvertently enter a natural transmission cycle with birds as amplifying hosts.}, }
@article {pmid12930337, year = {2003}, author = {Flynn, TC and Carruthers, JA and Carruthers, JA and Clark, RE}, title = {Botulinum A toxin (BOTOX) in the lower eyelid: dose-finding study.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {29}, number = {9}, pages = {943-50; discussion 950-1}, doi = {10.1046/j.1524-4725.2003.29257.x}, pmid = {12930337}, issn = {1076-0512}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Eyelids/*drug effects ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Oculomotor Muscles/*drug effects ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A, BOTOX) is an excellent therapeutic option for hyperkinetic facial lines. It improves wrinkles by relaxing the muscles of facial expression, which underlie the rhytids. Periocular wrinkles such as lateral orbital rhytids respond well to treatment. BOTOX can be used in the lower eyelid to improve wrinkles and widen the eye.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To determine whether there is additional benefit in using more than 2 U of BTX-A to improve infraorbital wrinkles and widen the eye.<br><br>METHODS: Nineteen women had BTX-A injected into the orbicularis oculi muscle. Eleven women had 4 U injected into the lower eyelid bilaterally, 3 mm below the ciliary margin, and 12 U of BTX-A injected into one lateral orbital (crow's feet) area. Eight patients had 8 U injected bilaterally into the lower eyelid and 12 U placed unilaterally into the crow's feet. Physicians and patients independently evaluated the degree of improvement (grade 3=dramatic improvement, grade 2=moderate improvement, grade 1=mild improvement, and grade 0=no improvement). Single investigator analysis was used to measure, in actual millimeters, the amount of increase in palpebral aperture. Side effects were noted.<br><br>RESULTS: Improvement was noted in lower eyelid wrinkles by both physicians and patients at both dose groups. When only the lower lid was injected, patients reported an improvement of 1.18 with 4 U and a grade of 1.63 with 8 U. When both the lower eyelid the lateral orbital area were treated, an improvement of 1.73 was reported with 4 U and a grade of 2.25 reported with 8 U in the lower eyelid. Physician evaluations had grades of 1.85 for 4 U alone and 1.85 with 8 U alone. Grades of 2.35 and 2.25 were obtained for 4 U plus 12 U and 8 U plus 12 U, respectively. An increase in palpebral aperture (IPA) occurred in all subjects. Subjects who received 4 U in the lower eyelid alone had a 1.8-mm IPA at rest and a 2.6-mm increase at full smile. Subjects who received 8 U of BTX-A alone in the lower lid had an IPA of 2.2 mm at rest and 2.9 mm at full smile. Eyes treated with 12 U in the bilateral orbital area plus 4 U in the lower eyelid had an IPA of 2.2 at rest and 4.5 mm at full smile. Those treated with 8 U in the lower lid plus the crow's feet had an IPA of 1.5 at rest and 4.0 at full smile. Side effects increased with dosage, with eight of eight subjects in the 8-U dose groups reporting bothersome side effects such as lower eyelid edema and incomplete sphincter function.<br><br>CONCLUSION: A dose-response curve is seen with increasing doses of BTX-A used in the lower eyelid. Treatment of the lateral orbital area in combination with the lower lid produces a synergistic response at lower doses, but at higher doses, a plateau effect is suggested. Although increasing doses of BTX-A increases eye widening, unattractive results and side effects are seen at higher doses. The authors recommend that lower 2- or 4-U doses of BTX-A be used in the lower eyelid and specifically discuss techniques.}, }
@article {pmid12919712, year = {2003}, author = {Grabner, RH and Stern, E and Neubauer, AC}, title = {When intelligence loses its impact: neural efficiency during reasoning in a familiar area.}, journal = {International journal of psychophysiology : official journal of the International Organization of Psychophysiology}, volume = {49}, number = {2}, pages = {89-98}, doi = {10.1016/s0167-8760(03)00095-3}, pmid = {12919712}, issn = {0167-8760}, mesh = {Adult ; Automobile Driving ; Brain Mapping ; Cerebral Cortex/*physiology ; Electroencephalography ; Evoked Potentials ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; }, abstract = {Several studies have revealed that persons with a lower IQ show more cortical activity when solving intelligence-related tasks than more intelligent persons do. Such results are interpreted in terms of neural efficiency: the more intelligent a person is, the fewer mental resources have to be activated. In an experiment with 31 experienced taxi drivers of varying IQs (measured by Raven's advanced progressive matrices test), we investigated cortical activation by measuring the amount of event-related desynchronization in the electroencephalogram during a familiar task (thinking about routes to take in their city) and a novel task (memorizing routes of an artificial map). A comparison of participants with lower and higher IQs (median split) revealed higher cortical activation in the less intelligent group for the novel task, but not for the familiar task. These results suggest that long-term experience can compensate for lower intellectual ability, even at the level of cortical activation.}, }
@article {pmid12908975, year = {2003}, author = {Brodin, A and Lundborg, K}, title = {Is hippocampal volume affected by specialization for food hoarding in birds?.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {270}, number = {1524}, pages = {1555-1563}, pmid = {12908975}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological/physiology ; Animals ; Body Weights and Measures ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Hippocampus/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Memory/physiology ; Songbirds/*anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The hypothesis that spatial-memory specialization affects the size of the hippocampus has become widely accepted among scientists. The hypothesis comes from studies on birds primarily in two families, the Paridae (tits, titmice and chickadees) and the Corvidae (crows, nutcrackers, jays, etc.). Many species in these families store food and rely on spatial memory to relocate the cached items. The hippocampus is a brain structure that is thought to be important for memory. Several studies report that hoarding species in these families possess larger hippocampi than non-hoarding relatives, and that species classified as large-scale hoarders have larger hippocampi than less specialized hoarders. We have investigated the largest dataset on hippocampus size and food-hoarding behaviour in these families so far but did not find a significant correlation between food-hoarding specialization and hippocampal volume. The occurrence of such an effect in earlier studies may depend on differences in the estimation of hippocampal volumes or difficulties in categorizing the degree of specialization for hoarding or both. To control for discrepancies in measurement methods we made our own estimates of hippocampal volumes in 16 individuals of four species that have been included in previous studies. Our estimates agreed closely with previous ones, suggesting that measurement methods are sufficiently consistent. Instead, the main reasons that previous studies have found an effect where we did not are difficulties in assessing the degree of hoarding specialization and the fact that smaller subsets of species were compared than in our study. Our results show that a correlation between food-hoarding specialization and hippocampal volume cannot be claimed on the basis of present data in these families.}, }
@article {pmid12907183, year = {2003}, author = {Nettle, D}, title = {Hand laterality and cognitive ability: a multiple regression approach.}, journal = {Brain and cognition}, volume = {52}, number = {3}, pages = {390-398}, doi = {10.1016/s0278-2626(03)00187-8}, pmid = {12907183}, issn = {0278-2626}, mesh = {Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Functional Laterality/*physiology ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Regression Analysis ; }, abstract = {Several different associations between hand laterality and cognitive ability have been proposed. Studies reporting different conclusions vary in their procedures for defining laterality, and several of them rely on measures which are statistically problematic. Previous methods for measuring relative hand skill have not satisfactorily separated the overall level of hand skill, which is a known correlate of cognitive ability, from the asymmetry of its distribution. This paper uses a multiple regression paradigm that separates these two components. Support is found for Leask and Crow's [Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 5 (2001) 513] proposal that average cognitive ability increases monotonically with increasing strength of laterality, regardless of its direction. The small average advantage to dextrals stems from them being more strongly lateralised than sinistrals. The paucity of strong dextrals amongst the very gifted is due to a smaller variance in cognitive ability in this group.}, }
@article {pmid12904234, year = {2003}, author = {Vital, C and Vital, A and Ferrer, X and Viallard, JF and Pellegrin, JL and Bouillot, S and Larrieu, JM and Lequen, L and Larrieu, JL and Brechenmacher, C and Petry, KG and Lagueny, A}, title = {Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome: a study of peripheral nerve biopsy in five new cases.}, journal = {Journal of the peripheral nervous system : JPNS}, volume = {8}, number = {3}, pages = {136-144}, doi = {10.1046/j.1529-8027.2003.03019.x}, pmid = {12904234}, issn = {1085-9489}, mesh = {Aged ; Antigens, CD/metabolism ; Antigens, CD20/metabolism ; Antigens, Differentiation, Myelomonocytic/metabolism ; Axons/ultrastructure ; Biopsy/methods ; Demyelinating Diseases/metabolism/pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Immunohistochemistry/methods ; In Vitro Techniques ; Leukocyte Common Antigens/metabolism ; Lymphocytes/metabolism ; Male ; Microscopy, Electron/instrumentation/methods ; Middle Aged ; Myelin Sheath/metabolism/ultrastructure ; POEMS Syndrome/cerebrospinal fluid/immunology/*pathology ; Peripheral Nerves/immunology/*ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {The pathogenesis of Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome is not well known, and in some cases, a definite diagnosis is difficult to establish. Nerve fibers have been studied in about 120 peripheral nerve biopsies (PNBs), and a mixture of axonal and demyelinating lesions were found in most of them. We report five new cases of Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome with ultrastructural examination of their PNBs. In every case, there were features of axonal degeneration and primary demyelination. Interestingly, uncompacted myelin lamellae (UMLs) were present in every case at a percentage of 1-7. The association of UML and Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome was described 20 years ago but was only reported in a few studies and found in 31 of 41 cases. In fact, this association is very significant because apart from Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome, UMLs can only be found with such a frequency in rare cases of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1B. UML was also reported in acute and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathies but at a much lower percentage. Moreover, in our five cases, UML was frequently associated with a decrease in the number of intra-axonal filaments, and this finding raises the problem of relationships between myelin formation and neurofilaments. So far, glomeruloid hemangiomas present in the dermis of some patients are considered as the only specific criteria of Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome, but we think UML can also be regarded as highly suggestive of this entity on condition that a thorough ultrastructural examination of a PNB is performed.}, }
@article {pmid12900711, year = {2003}, author = {Mazzone, D and Nicolosi, A and Aliberti, C and Mazzone, L and Caruso-Nicoletti, M}, title = {[Psychological findings in children with short stature].}, journal = {Minerva pediatrica}, volume = {55}, number = {3}, pages = {261-266}, pmid = {12900711}, issn = {0026-4946}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Anxiety/etiology ; *Body Height ; Child ; Depression/etiology ; Female ; Growth Disorders/*psychology ; Humans ; Male ; }, abstract = {AIM: The aim of this study is to evaluate the psychological findings in patients with short stature.<br><br>METHODS: We studied 19 subjects, 13 males and 6 females, with age range 7-14 years. We evaluated heigth, growth velocity, bone age, target height and growth hormone secretion after provocative stimuli. Psychological evaluation included: Kovacs Scale, Children's Depression Inventory (CDI), Anxiety Scale (Busnelli-Dall'Aglio-Farina); drawing of the human figure (Goodenough Test); Raven Test for neuropsychological performances (P.M. 38 and 47). Statistical analysis was performed using Mann-Whitney U-test.<br><br>RESULTS: We diagnosed familial short stature (FSS) in 7 patients and growth hormone deficit (GHD) in 12. No statistical difference was found in the anxiety and depression tests, although the score was higher in GHD patients. The human figure drawing and the interview revealed low self-esteem, sense of inadequacy, dependence from parents, social inhibition in all patients. These characteristics were more evident in patients with GHD. Neuropsycho-logical evaluation by Raven test showed normal score in all patients, however subjects with FSS exhibited a higher score than with GHD (p<0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest a negative influence of short stature on the affective field of children with short stature; GHD patients exhibited lower neuropsychological performances and more psychological problems than patients with FSS.}, }
@article {pmid12897278, year = {2003}, author = {O'Keeffe, MJ and O'Callaghan, M and Williams, GM and Najman, JM and Bor, W}, title = {Learning, cognitive, and attentional problems in adolescents born small for gestational age.}, journal = {Pediatrics}, volume = {112}, number = {2}, pages = {301-307}, doi = {10.1542/peds.112.2.301}, pmid = {12897278}, issn = {1098-4275}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*epidemiology/etiology ; Cognition Disorders/etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; Infant, Premature/*psychology ; Infant, Small for Gestational Age/*psychology ; *Intelligence ; Learning Disabilities/*epidemiology/etiology ; Male ; Prospective Studies ; *Psychology, Adolescent ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the presence, severity, or symmetry of growth restriction in term infants is an independent risk factor for learning, cognitive, and attentional problems in adolescence.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 7388 term infants have been followed prospectively since birth. At 14 years, 5059 mothers completed a Child Behavior Checklist and provided information on their child's school progress. A total of 5051 adolescents completed a Youth Self Report, with 3703 also undergoing psychometric testing with Ravens Progressive Matrices and Wide Range Achievement Test (WRAT) reading subtest. Outcomes were compared on the basis of birth weight groups and measures of body symmetry and were adjusted for the level of social risk at birth.<br><br>RESULTS: Adolescents who were born small for gestational age (SGA), when compared with their appropriately grown counterparts (>10th percentile), were more likely to experience learning difficulties, with a higher prevalence in those of birth weight < or =3rd percentile. Girls of birth weight < or =3rd percentile were more likely to have attentional problems and low WRAT reading scores. There was no significant difference in Ravens IQ or mean WRAT reading scores between SGA and non-SGA groups. There was no association between body symmetry and any of the outcomes studied.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: SGA status seems to have only modest independent effects on learning, cognition, and attention in adolescence. Severity but not symmetry of growth restriction predicted learning difficulties.}, }
@article {pmid12894243, year = {2003}, author = {Clayton, NS and Bussey, TJ and Dickinson, A}, title = {Can animals recall the past and plan for the future?.}, journal = {Nature reviews. Neuroscience}, volume = {4}, number = {8}, pages = {685-691}, doi = {10.1038/nrn1180}, pmid = {12894243}, issn = {1471-003X}, mesh = {Animal Population Groups/*physiology/*psychology ; Animals ; *Forecasting ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; Planning Techniques ; }, abstract = {According to the 'mental time travel hypothesis' animals, unlike humans, cannot mentally travel backwards in time to recollect specific past events (episodic memory) or forwards to anticipate future needs (future planning). Until recently, there was little evidence in animals for either ability. Experiments on memory in food-caching birds, however, question this assumption by showing that western scrub-jays form integrated, flexible, trial-unique memories of what they hid, where and when. Moreover, these birds can adjust their caching behaviour in anticipation of future needs. We suggest that some animals have elements of both episodic-like memory and future planning.}, }
@article {pmid12889205, year = {2003}, author = {Smirnova, AA and Bagotskaia, MS and Zorina, ZA}, title = {[Analysis of the effect of a training regime for the correct choice of matched learning in gray crows].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {53}, number = {3}, pages = {321-328}, pmid = {12889205}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Concept Formation/physiology ; Conditioning, Psychological/*physiology ; Discrimination Learning/*physiology ; Form Perception/physiology ; Generalization, Psychological ; Memory/physiology ; Songbirds ; Visual Perception/physiology ; }, abstract = {It was shown that a large set of training stimuli promotes abstract concept learning. These experiments were designed to assess whether an application of a large set of training stimuli would facilitate matching learning in crows. Four hooded crows were trained with a set of 72 unique combinations of stimuli in two-alternative simultaneous matching tasks with stimuli of three different categories: achromatic color (white, light-grey, dark-grey, and black), shape (Arabic numerals from 1 to 4 used as visual shapes only), and number of elements (heterogeneous graphic arrays from 1 to 4 items). Although the performance of all crows was significantly above chance (p < 0.01) in some 72-trial blocks, birds were unable to establish matching and to reach the criterion of learning 80% correct or better over 72 consecutive trials) in 5184 trials. Thus, the modified training procedure was less efficient than the training technique previously used (successive cyclic repetition of three small sets of training stimuli), which allowed four of six crows to acquire the matching rule after 1780, 2360, 3830, and 5260 trials [4,9].}, }
@article {pmid12884826, year = {2003}, author = {Takakura, Y and Yamaguchi, Y and Miyoshi, T}, title = {[A case of Crow-Fukase syndrome with extramedullary plasmacytoma: marked clinical deterioration following a biopsy to plasmacytoma].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {43}, number = {4}, pages = {170-175}, pmid = {12884826}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Aged ; Biomarkers/blood ; Biopsy/adverse effects ; Capillary Permeability ; Disease Progression ; Endothelial Growth Factors/blood/metabolism/physiology ; Humans ; Immunoglobulin G/blood ; Immunoglobulin lambda-Chains/blood ; Immunoglobulins, Intravenous/therapeutic use ; Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/blood/metabolism/physiology ; Lymphokines/blood/metabolism/physiology ; Male ; POEMS Syndrome/diagnosis/*etiology/physiopathology/therapy ; Plasmacytoma/*complications/metabolism ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors ; }, abstract = {A 66-year-old man developed paresthesia of the distal parts of the bilateral lower limbs a week after his upper respiratory infection, followed by the weakness with the legs and paresthesia with the lip area, tongue and finger tips. Those symptoms gradually became worse to the point that he was unable to walk 10 days later. Although skin pigmentation, edema, and lymph node swelling were not found, we made a diagnosis of Crow-Fukase syndrome (CFS) because of clinical features of polyneuropathy, IgG-lambda type M proteinemia, endocrinological abnormality, elevated plasma level of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and extramedullary plasmacytoma in his abdomen. Following intravenous immunoglobulin therapy (IVIg), he showed marked improvement. However, his neurologic symptoms deteriorated acutely just after open biopsy together with the elevation of VEGF level, and a few days later he was in the state of flaccid quadriparesis. We tried IVIg therapy again and his neurologic symptoms were markedly improved. We speculated that an elevated VEGF, released from plasma cells induced by the bioprocedure, might have caused an increase in microvascular permeability and affected the blood-nerve-barrier, thereby his neurologic symptoms deteriorated. It is thought that this case may support the hypothesis that a significant role is played by VEGF in the pathomechanism of the development of CFS. Additionally we experienced that IVIg was very effective to the neurologic symptoms, and we think that IVIg will be able to be one of the future therapy of the CFS. To our knowledge, there has been no report of CFS which manifested acute deterioration of his neurologic symptoms just after open biopsy with acute onset with Guillain-Barré syndrome like symptoms.}, }
@article {pmid12876812, year = {2000}, author = {Smith, CL}, title = {State senator awarded National AMA Award. Jay Bradford honored for his dedication to health care reform.}, journal = {The Journal of the Arkansas Medical Society}, volume = {97}, number = {4}, pages = {123}, pmid = {12876812}, issn = {0004-1858}, mesh = {American Medical Association ; *Awards and Prizes ; Government/history ; *Health Care Reform/history ; History, 21st Century ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid12866800, year = {2003}, author = {Weaver, JM}, title = {The powerful influence of Jay J. Jacoby MD, PhD, on dental anesthesiology training.}, journal = {Anesthesia progress}, volume = {50}, number = {2}, pages = {51-52}, pmid = {12866800}, issn = {0003-3006}, mesh = {Anesthesia, Dental/*history ; Anesthesiology/education/history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid12854008, year = {2003}, author = {Marcopulos, B and McLain, C}, title = {Are our norms "normal"? A 4-year follow-up study of a biracial sample of rural elders with low education.}, journal = {The Clinical neuropsychologist}, volume = {17}, number = {1}, pages = {19-33}, doi = {10.1076/clin.17.1.19.15630}, pmid = {12854008}, issn = {1385-4046}, support = {P50-MH49173/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Age Factors ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders ; Educational Status ; Evaluation Studies as Topic ; Follow-Up Studies ; *Geriatric Assessment ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Prospective Studies ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Psychometrics ; *Reference Standards ; Reference Values ; Reproducibility of Results ; Rural Population/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; }, abstract = {Conventional norms that test presumably normal elderly individuals at one point in time may include preclinical cases of dementia and therefore may be less sensitive to the presence of dementia (Sliwinski, Lipton, Buschke, &amp; Stewart, 1996). A sample of presumably normal African American and White rural community older adults (first reported in Marcopulos, McLain, &amp; Giuliano, 1997) were retested after approximately 4 years to develop "robust" norms for the Mini Mental State Examination, Mattis Dementia Rating Scale Fuld Object Memory Evaluation, WAIS-R Vocabulary and Block Design, Wechsler Memory Scale - Revised Logical Memory and Visual Reproduction, Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, and Clock Drawing Test. Ninety-four out of the original 133 participants were located and agreed to be retested. Twelve of the participants retested at Time 2 showed significant decline on testing relative to their own baseline and were dropped from the recalculated norms. Participants who declined on testing tended to be older, less educated, had lower WAIS-R scores on Vocabulary and Block Design combined, had poorer IADLs and were less socially active. There was no difference in physical health status or level of depression. Recalculated group means showed little change when the participants who declined had been removed, but this left very few participants at the extremes of age (>85 years) and education (<4 years). It appears that the incidence of cognitive decline in this sample is comparable to other community samples of cognitive decline and dementia. Results are discussed in light of the practical difficulties of identifying preclinical dementia for deriving robust norms, implications for the theory of cognitive reserve, risk of cognitive decline in persons with low education and/or low premorbid mental ability and the clinical utility of utilizing education-corrected norms.}, }
@article {pmid12853960, year = {2003}, author = {Day, M and Langston, R and Morris, RG}, title = {Glutamate-receptor-mediated encoding and retrieval of paired-associate learning.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {424}, number = {6945}, pages = {205-209}, doi = {10.1038/nature01769}, pmid = {12853960}, issn = {1476-4687}, mesh = {2-Amino-5-phosphonovalerate/pharmacology ; 6-Cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione/pharmacology ; Animals ; Association Learning/*physiology ; Excitatory Amino Acid Antagonists/pharmacology ; Food Preferences ; Hippocampus/physiology ; Male ; Mental Recall ; Rats ; Receptors, AMPA/antagonists &amp; inhibitors/*physiology ; Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate/antagonists &amp; inhibitors/*physiology ; Spatial Behavior ; }, abstract = {Paired-associate learning is often used to examine episodic memory in humans. Animal models include the recall of food-cache locations by scrub jays and sequential memory. Here we report a model in which rats encode, during successive sample trials, two paired associates (flavours of food and their spatial locations) and display better-than-chance recall of one item when cued by the other. In a first study, pairings of a particular foodstuff and its location were never repeated, so ensuring unique 'what-where' attributes. Blocking N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors in the hippocampus--crucial for the induction of certain forms of activity-dependent synaptic plasticity--impaired memory encoding but had no effect on recall. Inactivating hippocampal neural activity by blocking alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid (AMPA) receptors impaired both encoding and recall. In a second study, two paired associates were trained repeatedly over 8 weeks in new pairs, but blocking of hippocampal AMPA receptors did not affect their recall. Thus we conclude that unique what-where paired associates depend on encoding and retrieval within a hippocampal memory space, with consolidation of the memory traces representing repeated paired associates in circuits elsewhere.}, }
@article {pmid12846519, year = {2003}, author = {Alanazi, FM and Rodrigues, A}, title = {Power bases and attribution in three cultures.}, journal = {The Journal of social psychology}, volume = {143}, number = {3}, pages = {375-395}, doi = {10.1080/00224540309598451}, pmid = {12846519}, issn = {0022-4545}, mesh = {Anger ; Brazil ; Cross-Cultural Comparison ; *Culture ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Power, Psychological ; Saudi Arabia ; United States ; }, abstract = {The authors used a Saudi context to verify the cross-cultural generality of findings (A. Rodrigues &amp; K. L. Lloyd, 1998) reported for U.S. and Brazilian samples in which compliant behavior caused by reward, informational, and referent influences was perceived as more controllable and more internal than compliant behavior resulting from legitimate, expert, and coercive influences. This differential attribution led, in turn, to different affective and behavioral responses. In the present study, cognitive and affective reactions of Saudi students were measured with regard to compliant behavior (leading to a good outcome or a bad outcome) caused by each of the 6 bases of power described by B. H. Raven (1965). As expected, power bases had significant effects. However, when the outcome of the compliant behavior was bad, compliant behavior caused by a coercive influence led to the perception of more internality and controllability. Also--and not found in previous studies--the perception of less internality and controllability of compliant behavior was caused by an informational influence. Findings are discussed in the light of related research and Saudi cultural characteristics.}, }
@article {pmid12832905, year = {2003}, author = {Viterbo, F}, title = {New treatment for crow's feet wrinkles by vertical myectomy of the lateral orbicularis oculi.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {112}, number = {1}, pages = {275-9; discussion 280-1}, doi = {10.1097/01.PRS.0000066369.64499.DF}, pmid = {12832905}, issn = {0032-1052}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Blepharoplasty/methods ; Facial Muscles/surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; }, abstract = {Crow's feet wrinkles are common complaints in patients looking for facial rejuvenation. This article describes a new technique for a lasting treatment by vertical myectomy of the lateral orbicularis oculi muscle. The author presents 20 cases surgically treated in the past 16 months. The results are very promising.}, }
@article {pmid12832827, year = {2003}, author = {Tokita, M}, title = {The skull development of parrots with special reference to the emergence of a morphologically unique cranio-facial hinge.}, journal = {Zoological science}, volume = {20}, number = {6}, pages = {749-758}, doi = {10.2108/zsj.20.749}, pmid = {12832827}, issn = {0289-0003}, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological ; Animals ; Animals, Newborn ; *Biological Evolution ; Diet ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; Parrots/*anatomy &amp; histology/*embryology/growth &amp; development ; Phylogeny ; Skull/*anatomy &amp; histology/*embryology/growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {The order Psittaciformes (parrots) has unique morphological features in the head that are evolutionarily novel. To better understand the unique evolution of the head in parrots, the developmental pattern of the skull of the budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus) was initially described on the basis of transparent skeletal specimens. Although the fundamental pattern of the skull development of birds is conserved in parrots, some differences were observed between parrots and other groups of birds. In parrots, the vacuity in the interorbital septum did not emerge throughout ontogeny, in contrast to other lineages of birds, for example Galliformes and Coliiformes. This feature seems to be concerned with the attachment of the unique jaw muscle of parrots, M. ethmomandibularis, to the interorbital septum. In spite of a prokinetic skull, the cranio-facial hinge of parrots was brought about by secondary transformation of dermal bones unlike that of birds with a standard prokinetic skull (e.g. Corvus) in which the nasal-frontal suture directly becomes a hinge of bending. To further understand the evolution of "pseudoprokinesis" in parrots, the construction of a robust avian phylogeny is desired. The parrot-specific suborbital arch and cranio-facial hinge are not seen until birds leave the nest and can feed themselves. In conclusion, these structures are considered to be essential for eating hard and/or large meals.}, }
@article {pmid12831797, year = {2003}, author = {Mitchell, D}, title = {A chapter in the history of nurse education: learning disability nursing and The Jay Report.}, journal = {Nurse education today}, volume = {23}, number = {5}, pages = {350-6; discussion 357-61}, doi = {10.1016/s0260-6917(03)00025-x}, pmid = {12831797}, issn = {0260-6917}, mesh = {Advisory Committees/*history ; Dissent and Disputes/history ; Education, Nursing/*history ; Health Care Reform/history ; History, 20th Century ; Learning Disabilities/*history/nursing ; Politics ; Terminology as Topic ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {This paper is a discussion of the Jay Report into mental handicap nursing and care that was published in 1979. Following a brief discussion of the report itself, the paper considers material from the period that was published in the nursing press. This material gives an insight into the way in which nurses reacted to Jay's recommendation that mental handicap nursing be replaced with a professional grouping based on the Certificate in Social Services. Whilst this was not the first time that the continuation of mental handicap nursing had been questioned, it was the first occasion in which there was a public debate about the issue. Although the Jay Report was concerned with a minority of nurses it is argued that lessons can be drawn about nurse education generally. Conclusions are drawn about the way in which changes to nurse education and service need to be linked in order to be effective. Furthermore the discussion places the Jay Report within the broad political concerns of the day. It is argued that the report is a further example of the way in which change within nursing takes place when it corresponds with central government policy concerns.}, }
@article {pmid12827547, year = {2004}, author = {Emery, NJ and Dally, JM and Clayton, NS}, title = {Western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica) use cognitive strategies to protect their caches from thieving conspecifics.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {37-43}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-003-0178-7}, pmid = {12827547}, issn = {1435-9448}, support = {MH2602/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; NS 35465-05/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; *Food ; Male ; *Memory ; }, abstract = {Food caching birds hide food and recover the caches when supplies are less abundant. There is, however, a risk to this strategy because the caches are susceptible to pilfering by others. Corvids use a number of different strategies to reduce possible cache theft. Scrub-jays with previous experience of pilfering other's caches cached worms in two visuospatially distinct caching trays either in private or in the presence of a conspecific. When these storers had cached in private, they subsequently observed both trays out of reach of a conspecific. When these storers had cached in the presence of a conspecific, they subsequently watched the observer pilfering from one of the trays while the other tray was placed in full view, but out of reach. The storers were then allowed to recover the remaining caches 3 h later. Jays cached more worms when they were observed during caching. At the time of recovery, they re-cached more than if they had cached in private, selectively re-caching outside of the trays in sites unbeknown to potential thieves. In addition, after a single pilfering trial, the jays switched their recovery strategy from predominantly checking their caches (i.e. returning to a cache site to see whether the food remained there) to predominantly eating them. Re-caching remained constant across the three trials. These results suggest that scrub-jays use flexible, cognitive caching and recovery strategies to aid in reducing potential future pilfering of caches by conspecifics.}, }
@article {pmid12826731, year = {2003}, author = {Searcy, YM and Caine, NG}, title = {Hawk calls elicit alarm and defensive reactions in captive Geoffroy's marmosets (Callithrix geoffroyi).}, journal = {Folia primatologica; international journal of primatology}, volume = {74}, number = {3}, pages = {115-125}, doi = {10.1159/000070645}, pmid = {12826731}, issn = {0015-5713}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Callithrix/*physiology/psychology ; Female ; Male ; Motor Activity ; Predatory Behavior ; Raptors/*physiology ; Reflex, Startle ; Tape Recording ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Most descriptions of callitrichid antipredator behavior have come from observations of visual encounters with predators, but there is also anecdotal evidence suggesting that callitrichids may use auditory cues associated with raptors for the early detection of potential danger. In the present study, Geoffroy's marmosets consistently reacted to the tape-recorded calls of a red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) with high-intensity antipredator behaviors. Compared to the taped calls of a raven (Corvus corax) and the taped sound of a power drill, the hawk calls elicited more startle reactions, more alarm calls, longer freeze times, increased use of safe areas of their enclosure and greater disruption in ongoing behavior. Once in a relatively safe location in the enclosure, the marmosets visually monitored the site of origin of the calls for 10 min and minimized locomotion for 30 min, but resumed baseline levels of other activities that had been disrupted by the hawk calls. Marmosets may use the auditory cues associated with predators for early detection, and subsequent avoidance, of a potential predator in the vicinity.}, }
@article {pmid12822567, year = {2003}, author = {Pietikainen, P and Ihanus, J}, title = {On the origins of psychoanalytic psychohistory.}, journal = {History of psychology}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {171-194}, doi = {10.1037/1093-4510.6.2.171}, pmid = {12822567}, issn = {1093-4510}, mesh = {*Historiography ; History, 20th Century ; *Psychoanalytic Interpretation ; United States ; }, abstract = {This article examines the origins and early development of psychoanalytically inspired psychohistory from the late 1950s to the early 1970s. It focuses on Erik H. Erikson, Bruce Mazlish, and Robert Jay Lifton and illustrates their contributions to psychoanalytic psychohistory. Erikson, Mazlish, and Lifton were core members of the Wellfleet group, a research project originally funded by the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 1965 to conceptualize the foundation of psychohistory. The article gives an account of the early history of the Wellfleet group and argues for specific historical reasons to explain why psychoanalytic psychohistory emerged on the East Coast of the United States in the late 1950s and early 1960s. A critique of the Wellfleet group in unpublished correspondence of Erich Fromm and David Riesman is also discussed.}, }
@article {pmid12818088, year = {1999}, author = {Pietrzak, I and Bodalski, J}, title = {[The influence of the psycho-biological factors on the level of knowledge and skills concerning the diabetes in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus].}, journal = {Endokrynologia, diabetologia i choroby przemiany materii wieku rozwojowego : organ Polskiego Towarzystwa Endokrynologow Dzieciecych}, volume = {5}, number = {2}, pages = {63-70}, pmid = {12818088}, issn = {1234-625X}, abstract = {The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of the psycho-biological factors on the level of knowledge and skills concerning the diabetes in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus. The study was performed in 100 patients aged 12-18 years with diabetes duration 1-13 years. Diabetes knowledge was assessed by using a 29 item diabetes knowledge test. Then practical abilities concerning self-control were estimated. The analysis of psycho-biological qualities of patients included age, sex, duration of the disease, age at onset of diabetes, education, intellectual abilities level (Raven's Standard Matrix Test) and general condition of the patient (HbA1c, occurrence of severe hypoglycaemia, co-occurrence of other chronic diseases). The best results of written and practical tests were obtained by patients at the age of 15 or more. The lowest evaluation of knowledge and practical ability was obtained by children at the age of 12-13. Practical ability level was statistically significantly higher in patients suffering for 1-2 years than in the remaining of the examined persons. Children who fell ill at the age of 0.5-6 years presented a statistically significantly lower level of knowledge in their self-control than patients who fell ill after 11 years of age. Theoretical and practical training degree in diabetes self-control showed a positive correlation with the education level of the subjects. A positive correlation between the test results and intellectual abilities of the subjects was observed within the examined group. The level of patients' health education positively correlates with their age, formal education and intelligence. Health education of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus should be individualised and adapted to their particular qualities.}, }
@article {pmid12817149, year = {2003}, author = {Baglione, V and Canestrari, D and Marcos, J and Ekman, J}, title = {Kin selection in cooperative alliances of carrion crows.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {300}, number = {5627}, pages = {1947-1949}, doi = {10.1126/science.1082429}, pmid = {12817149}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Biological Evolution ; *Breeding ; Cooperative Behavior ; Female ; Male ; Microsatellite Repeats ; Reproduction ; *Selection, Genetic ; Sexual Behavior, Animal ; Social Behavior ; Songbirds/genetics/*physiology ; Spain ; Territoriality ; }, abstract = {In most cooperative vertebrates, delayed natal dispersal is the mechanism that leads to the formation of kin societies. Under this condition, the possibility that kin-based cooperative breeding is an unselected consequence of dispersal patterns can never be ruled out because helpers can only help their relatives. Here we show that a population of carrion crows (Corvus corone corone) fully fits the central prediction of kin selection theory that cooperative breeding should arise among relatives. On their territory, resident breeders are aided not only by nonbreeding retained offspring but also by immigrants (mainly males), with whom they share matings. Philopatry cannot account, however, for the high degree of genetic relatedness found between breeders and immigrants of the same sex that cooperate at a nest, indicating that crows actively choose to breed cooperatively with their relatives.}, }
@article {pmid12812450, year = {2003}, author = {Crooks, SM and Wu, X and Takita, C and Watzich, M and Xing, L}, title = {Aperture modulated arc therapy.}, journal = {Physics in medicine and biology}, volume = {48}, number = {10}, pages = {1333-1344}, doi = {10.1088/0031-9155/48/10/307}, pmid = {12812450}, issn = {0031-9155}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Biophysical Phenomena ; Biophysics ; Head and Neck Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Humans ; Male ; Meningeal Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Meningioma/radiotherapy ; Particle Accelerators/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Prostatic Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods/statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {We show that it is possible to translate an intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) treatment plan and deliver it as a single arc. This technique is referred to in this paper as aperture modulation arc therapy (AMAT). During this arc, the MLC leaves do not conform to the projection of the target PTV and the machine output of the accelerator has a constant value. Dose was calculated using the CORVUS 4.0 IMRT system, which uses a pencil beam dose algorithm, and treatments were delivered using a Varian 2100C/D Clinac. Results are presented for a head and neck and a prostate case, showing the equivalence of the IMRT and the translated AMAT delivery. For a prostate AMAT delivery, coronal plane film dose for the IMRT and AMAT deliveries agreed within 7.19 +/- 6.62%. For a meningioma the coronal plane dose distributions were similar to a value of 4.6 +/- 6.62%. Dose to the isocentre was measured as being within 2% of the planned value in both cases.}, }
@article {pmid12806711, year = {2003}, author = {, }, title = {The Magpie study--clinical implications for poor countries.}, journal = {South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde}, volume = {93}, number = {4}, pages = {264-265}, pmid = {12806711}, issn = {0256-9574}, }
@article {pmid12798024, year = {2001}, author = {Bargues, MD and Vigo, M and Horak, P and Dvorak, J and Patzner, RA and Pointier, JP and Jackiewicz, M and Meier-Brook, C and Mas-Coma, S}, title = {European Lymnaeidae (Mollusca: Gastropoda), intermediate hosts of trematodiases, based on nuclear ribosomal DNA ITS-2 sequences.}, journal = {Infection, genetics and evolution : journal of molecular epidemiology and evolutionary genetics in infectious diseases}, volume = {1}, number = {2}, pages = {85-107}, doi = {10.1016/s1567-1348(01)00019-3}, pmid = {12798024}, issn = {1567-1348}, mesh = {Animals ; Cell Nucleus/*genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal Spacer/*genetics ; Disease Reservoirs ; Evolution, Molecular ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; Snails/classification/*genetics/*parasitology ; Trematoda/*physiology ; Trematode Infections/transmission ; }, abstract = {Freshwater snails of the family Lymnaeidae are of a great parasitological importance because of the very numerous helminth species they transmit, mainly trematodiases of large medical and veterinary impact. The present knowledge on the genetics of lymnaeids and on their parasite-host inter-relationships is far from being sufficient. The family is immersed in a systematic-taxonomic confusion. The necessity for a tool which enables species distinction and population characterization is evident. This paper aims to review the European Lymnaeidae basing on the second internal transcribed spacer ITS-2 of the nuclear ribosomal DNA. The ITS-2 sequences of 66 populations of 13 European and 1 North American lymnaeid species, including the five generic (or subgeneric) taxa Lymnaea sensu stricto, Stagnicola, Omphiscola, Radix and Galba, have been obtained. The ITS-2 proves to be a useful marker for resolving supraspecific, specific and population relationships in Lymnaeidae. Three different groupings according to their ITS-2 length could be distinguished: Radix and Galba may be considered the oldest taxa (370-406 bp lengths), and Lymnaea s. str., European Stagnicola and Omphiscola (468-491 bp lengths) the most recent, American Stagnicola and Hinkleyia being intermediate (434-450 bp lengths). This hypothesis agrees with the phylogeny of lymnaeids based on palaeontological data, chromosome numbers and radular dentition. ITS-2 sequences present a conserved central region flanked by two variable lateral regions corresponding to the 5' and 3' ends. The number of repeats of two microsatellites found in this conserved central region allows to differentiate Radix from all other lymnaeids. Phylogenetic trees showed four clades: (A) Lymnaea s. str., European Stagnicola and Omphiscola; (B) Radix species; (C) Galba truncatula; and (D) North American stagnicolines. ITS-2 results suggest that retaining Stagnicola as a subgenus of Lymnaea may be the most appropriate and that genus status for Omphiscola is justified. Radix shows a complexity suggesting different evolutionary lines, whereas G. truncatula appears to be very homogeneous. North American and European stagnicolines do not belong to the same supraspecific taxon; the genus Hinkleyia may be used for the American stagnicolines. Genetic distances and sequence differences allowed us to distinguish the upper limit to be expected within a single species and to how different sister species may be. S. palustris, S. fuscus and S. corvus proved to be valid species, but S. turricula may not be considered a species independent from S. palustris. Marked nucleotide divergences and genetic distances detected between different S. fuscus populations may be interpreted as a process of geographic differentiation developping in the present. Among Radix, six valid species could be distinguished: R. auricularia, R. ampla, R. peregra (=R. ovata;=R. balthica), R. labiata, R. lagotis and Radix sp. The information which the ITS-2 marker furnishes is of applied interest concerning the molluscan host specificity of the different trematode species. The phylogenetic trees inferred from the ITS-2 sequences are able to differentiate between lymnaeids transmitting and those non-transmitting fasciolids, as well as between those transmitting F. hepatica and those transmitting F. gigantica. The Fasciola specificity is linked to the two oldest genera which moreover cluster together in the phylogenetic trees, suggesting an origin of the Fasciola ancestors related to the origin of this branch. European Trichobilharzia species causing human dermatitis are transmitted only by lymnaeids of the Radix and Lymnaea s. str.-Stagnicola groups. Results suggest the convenience of reinvestigating compatibility differences after accurate lymnaeid species classification by ITS-2 sequencing. Similarly, ITS-2 sequencing would allow a step forward in the appropriate rearrangement of the actual systematic confusion among echinostomatids.}, }
@article {pmid12788197, year = {2003}, author = {Dong, L and Antolak, J and Salehpour, M and Forster, K and O'Neill, L and Kendall, R and Rosen, I}, title = {Patient-specific point dose measurement for IMRT monitor unit verification.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {56}, number = {3}, pages = {867-877}, doi = {10.1016/s0360-3016(03)00197-4}, pmid = {12788197}, issn = {0360-3016}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Calibration ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging/*radiotherapy ; Normal Distribution ; Quality Control ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*instrumentation/standards ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To review intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) monitor unit verification in a phantom for 751 clinical cases.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: A custom water-filled phantom was used to measure the integral dose with an ion chamber for patient-specific quality assurance. The Corvus IMRT planning system was used for all cases reviewed. The 751 clinical cases were classified into 9 treatment sites: central nervous system (27 cases), gastrointestinal (24 cases), genitourinary (447 cases), gynecologic (18 cases), head and neck (200 cases), hematology (12 cases), pediatric (3 cases), sarcoma (8 cases), and thoracic (12 cases). Between December 1998 and January 2002, 1591 measurements were made for these 751 IMRT quality assurance plans.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean difference (MD) in percent between the measurements and the calculations was +0.37% (with the measurement being slightly higher). The standard deviation (SD) was 1.7%, and the range of error was from -4.5% to 9.5%. The MD and SD were +0.49% and 1.4% for MIMiC treatments delivered in 2-cm mode (261 cases) and -0.33% and 2.7% for those delivered in 1-cm mode (36 cases). Most treatments (420) were delivered using the step-and-shoot multileaf collimator with a 6-MV photon beam; the MD and SD were +0.31% and 1.8%, respectively. Among the 9 treatment sites, the prostate IMRT (in genitourinary site) was most consistent with the smallest SD (1.5%). There were 23 cases (3.1% of all cases) in which the measurement difference was greater than 3.5%; of those, 6 cases used the MIMiC in 1-cm mode, and 14 of the cases were from the head-and-neck treatment site.<br><br>CONCLUSION: IMRT monitor unit calculations from the Corvus planning system agreed within 3.5% with the point-dose ion chamber measurement in 97% of 751 cases representing 9 different treatment sites. A good consistency was observed across sites.}, }
@article {pmid12777516, year = {2003}, author = {Sorenson, MD and Oneal, E and Garcia-Moreno, J and Mindell, DP}, title = {More taxa, more characters: the hoatzin problem is still unresolved.}, journal = {Molecular biology and evolution}, volume = {20}, number = {9}, pages = {1484-1498}, doi = {10.1093/molbev/msg157}, pmid = {12777516}, issn = {0737-4038}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/classification/*genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/*genetics ; Evolution, Molecular ; *Genetic Variation ; *Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {The apparently rapid and ancient diversification of many avian orders complicates the resolution of their relationships using molecular data. Recent studies based on complete mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences or shorter lengths of nuclear sequence have helped corroborate the basic structure of the avian tree (e.g., a basal split between Paleognathae and Neognathae) but have made relatively little progress in resolving relationships among the many orders within Neoaves. We explored the potential of a moderately sized mtDNA data set (approximately 5000 bp for each of 41 taxa), supplemented with data from a nuclear intron (approximately 700 bp per taxon), to resolve relationships among avian orders. Our sampling of taxa addresses two issues: (1). the sister relationship and monophyly, respectively, of Anseriformes and Galliformes and (2). relationships of the enigmatic hoatzin Opisthocomus hoazin. Our analyses support a basal split between Galloanserae and Neoaves within Neognathae and monophyly of both Galliformes and Anseriformes. Within Galliformes, megapodes and then cracids branch basally. Within Anseriformes, mitochondrial data support a screamer (Anhimidae) plus magpie goose (Anseranatidae) clade. This result, however, may be an artifact of divergent base composition in one of the two anatids we sampled. With deletion of the latter taxon, Anseranas is sister to anatids as in traditional arrangements and recent morphological studies. Although our data provide limited resolution of relationships within Neoaves, we find no support for a sister relationship between either cuckoos (Cuculiformes) or turacos (Musophagiformes) and hoatzin. Both mitochondrial and nuclear data are consistent with a relationship between hoatzin and doves (Columbiformes), although this result is weakly supported. We also show that mtDNA sequences reported in another recent study included pervasive errors that biased the analysis towards finding a sister relationship between hoatzin and turacos.}, }
@article {pmid12776657, year = {2003}, author = {Blajer, M and Kucia, K and Klasik, A and Mac-Blajer, H}, title = {[Personality characteristics of police candidates].}, journal = {Psychiatria polska}, volume = {37}, number = {2}, pages = {259-268}, pmid = {12776657}, issn = {0033-2674}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/*standards ; Male ; *Personality ; Personality Inventory/*standards ; Poland ; *Police ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {AIM: The aim of the present study is an attempt to study personality characteristics of police volunteers and to determine the correlation between their age and personality features.<br><br>METHOD: A number of 106 persons have been investigated, between them 12 women and 94 men in the age from 19 to 35 years. A set of standardised psychological tests has been used as a diagnostic tool, e.g. Eysenck Personality Inventory, MMPI, Raven's Test and Similarities and Vocabulary subscales from the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale. The analysis of these correlations has been conducted by the use of the Pearson's correlation ratio.<br><br>RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: In the investigated group the IQ results were within an average range. The analysis of the personality profiles delivered by the MMPI-test has proved that it is impossible to determine any concrete personality disturbances in police volunteers. Results achieved in the Eysneck's test eliminate the test as a diagnostic tool useful in the qualification of police volunteers no correlation has been found between age of the volunteers and their personality features.}, }
@article {pmid12774834, year = {2003}, author = {Smirnova, AA and Lazareva, OF and Zorina, ZA}, title = {Prototype symbolization in hooded crows.}, journal = {Neuroscience and behavioral physiology}, volume = {33}, number = {4}, pages = {335-348}, pmid = {12774834}, issn = {0097-0549}, mesh = {Animals ; Form Perception/*physiology ; Generalization, Psychological ; Mental Processes/*physiology ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Studies were undertaken to determine whether four crows previously trained to an image-based abstract selection rule could establish a relationship between the number of elements in a group and initially indifferent symbols (arabic numerals) and operate with these symbols, i.e., studies addressed the ability of these birds to symbolize. Unlike other similar studies, there was no use of special development of associative connections between the symbols and the corresponding arrays of elements, but conditions were created in which birds could observe these relationships on the basis of comparison with previously obtained information. Demonstration series were performed for this purpose, in which correct solutions by the crow resulted in receipt of a number of larvae corresponding to the number of elements in the array pictured or numeral imaged on the stimulus selected by the crow. Images belonged to the same category as the corresponding stimulus for selection (the second stimulus was another category): if the image was an array, then the corresponding picture for selection also bore an array, and vice versa. Crows could solve the task successfully by using an image-based selection rule. In test series, the image and both selection stimuli were initially from different categories: if the image was a numeral, then both selection stimuli were arrays, and vice versa. All four crows successfully coped with this task. Despite the absence of any similarity between the image and "correct" stimulus, they selected the array corresponding to the numeral and vice versa. It is suggested that the birds could achieve this result by comparing the information obtained during the presentation series--about the number of reinforcement units corresponding to each stimulus. Similar experiments showed that crows could use numbers to perform operations analogous to arithmetic addition.}, }
@article {pmid12765327, year = {2003}, author = {Dogan, N and Leybovich, LB and Sethi, A and Emami, B}, title = {Automatic feathering of split fields for step-and-shoot intensity modulated radiation therapy.}, journal = {Physics in medicine and biology}, volume = {48}, number = {9}, pages = {1133-1140}, doi = {10.1088/0031-9155/48/9/304}, pmid = {12765327}, issn = {0031-9155}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Dose Fractionation, Radiation ; Esophageal Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Humans ; Phantoms, Imaging ; Radiometry/instrumentation/*methods ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; }, abstract = {Due to leaf travel range limitations of the Varian Dynamic Multileaf Collimator (DMLC) system, an IMRT field width exceeding 14.5 cm is split into two or more adjacent abutting sub-fields. The abutting sub-fields are then delivered as separate treatment fields. The accuracy of the delivery is very sensitive to multileaf positioning accuracy. The uncertainties in leaf and carriage positions cause errors in the delivered dose (e.g., hot or cold spots) along the match line of abutting sub-fields. The dose errors are proportional to the penumbra slope at the edge of each sub-field. To alleviate this problem, we developed techniques that feather the split line of IMRT fields. Feathering of the split line was achieved by dividing IMRT fields into several sub-groups with different split line positions. A Varian 21EX accelerator with an 80-leaf DLMC was used for IMRT delivery. Cylindrical targets with varying widths (>14.5 cm) were created to study the split line positions. Seven coplanar 6 MV fields were selected for planning using the NOMOS-CORVUS system. The isocentre of the fields was positioned at the centre of the target volume. Verification was done in a 30 x 30 x 30 cm3 polystyrene phantom using film dosimetry. We investigated two techniques to move the split line from its original position or cause feathering of them: (1) varying the isocentre position along the target width and (2) introduction of a 'pseudo target' outside of the patient (phantom). The position of the 'pseudo target' was determined by analysing the divergence of IMRT fields. For target widths of 14-28 cm, IMRT fields were automatically split into two sub-fields, and the split line was positioned along the centre of the target by CORVUS. Measured dose distributions demonstrated that the dose to the critical structure was 10% higher than planned when the split line crossed through the centre of the target. Both methods of modifying the split line positions resulted in maximum shifts of approximately 1 cm from the original. Therefore, it was concluded that the feathering of the split line may be used for reducing the magnitude of hot/cold spots. This method was tested for an oesophageal cancer case. For a six-field arrangement, it was possible to create three field sub-groups with different split lines. The feathering technique developed in this work does not require any modifications of the radiation fields during the course of treatment because only one treatment plan is used to deliver the entire course of radiation treatments. In addition, this method may be more biologically effective because the split line feathering is achieved for every fraction of radiation.}, }
@article {pmid12752519, year = {2003}, author = {Baumann, L and Slezinger, A and Vujevich, J and Halem, M and Bryde, J and Black, L and Duncan, R}, title = {A double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study of the safety and efficacy of Myobloc (botulinum toxin type B)-purified neurotoxin complex for the treatment of crow's feet: a double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {29}, number = {5}, pages = {508-515}, doi = {10.1046/j.1524-4725.2003.29132.x}, pmid = {12752519}, issn = {1076-0512}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins/*administration &amp; dosage ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Double-Blind Method ; Eye ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Pilot Projects ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {Crow's feet develop with age and are one of the earliest signs of the normal aging process. Botulinum toxin type A, approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of glabellar wrinkles in April 2002, has been used off-label to treat facial wrinkles since 1981. Botulinum toxin type B (BTX-B, Myobloc) was Food and Drug Administration-approved for use in cervical dystonia in the United States in December 2000 and has subsequently been used in an off-label indication to treat facial wrinkles. There are sparse data in the literature evaluating the safety and efficacy of BTX-B for the treatment of facial wrinkles. In this pilot study, participants with moderate or severe crow's feet wrinkles were treated with Myobloc versus placebo. The duration of correction and side effect profile are reported.}, }
@article {pmid12752516, year = {2003}, author = {Semchyshyn, N and Sengelmann, RD}, title = {Botulinum toxin A treatment of perioral rhytides.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {29}, number = {5}, pages = {490-5; discussion 495}, doi = {10.1046/j.1524-4725.2003.29118.x}, pmid = {12752516}, issn = {1076-0512}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Female ; Humans ; Lip ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin A is well documented as a useful therapy for smoothing dynamic facial rhytides of the upper face. Most controlled studies have focused on the treatment of glabellar frown lines, horizontal forehead lines, and crow's feet. Reports of botulinum toxin A use in the lower face are few and anecdotal.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: We present our experience using botulinum toxin A in the lip as a treatment of vertical perioral rhytides, which resulted in the added cosmetic benefits of lip eversion and enhanced lip fullness.<br><br>METHODS: Eighteen patients were injected with botulinum toxin A into the vertical lip rhytides. The effect of treatment was evaluated at 2 to 3 weeks after procedure.<br><br>RESULTS: Smoothening of hyperfunctional lines and upper lip fullness/eversion is observed in patients treated with perioral botulinum toxin A injections; 72% of patients continued treatment.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In select patients, perioral botulinum toxin A results in amelioration of perioral rhytides and enhancement of lip fullness and lip eversion.}, }
@article {pmid12743708, year = {2003}, author = {de Kort, SR and Emery, NJ and Clayton, NS}, title = {Food offering in jackdaws (Corvus monedula).}, journal = {Die Naturwissenschaften}, volume = {90}, number = {5}, pages = {238-240}, pmid = {12743708}, issn = {0028-1042}, mesh = {Animals ; DNA/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; *Feeding Behavior ; Male ; Social Behavior ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Food sharing among unrelated same-sex individuals has received considerable interest from primatologists and evolutionary biologists because of its apparent altruistic nature and implications for the evolution of complex social cognition. In contrast to primates, food sharing in birds has received relatively little attention. Here we describe three types of food sharing in jackdaws, with the initiative for the transfer either with the receiver or the giver. The latter situation is of particular interest because the food transfer takes place through active giving. Compared to primates, jackdaws show high rates of food sharing. Finally we discuss the implications of food sharing in jackdaws, and in birds in general.}, }
@article {pmid12741743, year = {2003}, author = {Daley, TC and Whaley, SE and Sigman, MD and Espinosa, MP and Neumann, C}, title = {IQ on the rise: the Flynn effect in rural Kenyan children.}, journal = {Psychological science}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {215-219}, doi = {10.1111/1467-9280.02434}, pmid = {12741743}, issn = {0956-7976}, mesh = {Child ; Cohort Studies ; *Developing Countries ; Female ; Health Surveys ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Kenya ; Male ; *Rural Population ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {Multiple studies have documented significant IQ gains over time, a phenomenon labeled the Flynn effect. Data from 20 industrialized nations show massive IQ gains over time, most notably in culturally reduced tests like the Raven's Progressive Matrices. To our knowledge, however, this is the first study to document the Flynn effect in a rural area of a developing country. Data for this project were collected during two large studies in Embu, Kenya, in 1984 and 1998. Results strongly support a Flynn effect over this 14-year period, with the most significant gains found in Raven's matrices. Previously hypothesized explanations (e.g., improved nutrition; increased environmental complexity; and family, parental, school, and methodological factors) for the Flynn effect are evaluated for their relevance in this community, and other potential factors are reviewed. The hypotheses that resonate best with our findings are those related to parents' literacy, family structure, and children's nutrition and health.}, }
@article {pmid12740629, year = {2003}, author = {, }, title = {The nature and prevalence of psychological problems in New Zealand primary healthcare: a report on Mental Health and General Practice Investigation (MaGPIe).}, journal = {The New Zealand medical journal}, volume = {116}, number = {1171}, pages = {U379}, pmid = {12740629}, issn = {1175-8716}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Distribution ; Aged ; Comorbidity ; Family Practice/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; Health Surveys ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Disorders/classification/*epidemiology ; Middle Aged ; New Zealand/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; Random Allocation ; Sex Distribution ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {AIMS: This paper describes the methods used in a study of the prevalence and types of common mental disorders among patients attending New Zealand general practices, and reports some key findings from the first phase of the study. The study also aimed to determine the degree of associated disability and other factors influencing recognition, management, course and outcome of these disorders, and subsequent papers will address these issues.<br><br>METHODS: General practitioners (GPs) were selected randomly. In the first phase of the study, all adult attenders at each practice on selected days were administered a short questionnaire, the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), which screens for psychological symptoms. The GP recorded the reasons for each consultation, and was interviewed at the end of each day about selected patients to determine their opinion about the type of psychological problems experienced. Selected patients were then visited in their own homes and an extensive interview conducted, which included the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) to determine mental health status, the World Health Organization's Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS) to determine disability, and a detailed exploration of use of health services. In the second phase of the study, patients were contacted by telephone at three, six, nine and 12 months, and both patients and GPs were re-interviewed at 12 months.<br><br>RESULTS: The study achieved a very high response rate among the GPs (90%). Nearly all eligible patients (93%) completed the GHQ screening, and their response rate was 70% for the first-phase interview. GPs thought that 54% of female and 46% of male patients had experienced some level of psychological problems in the past year. GHQ screening also found that more than half of those attending their general practitioner experienced some psychological symptoms at initial screening, and the CIDI interview found that more than one in three had a diagnosable mental disorder during the past 12 months. The most common mental disorders were depressive, anxiety and substance use disorders. These disorders were more common among younger than older general practice attenders, and comorbidity was high.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Mental health problems are very common among general practice attenders. Contrary to the prevailing view that general practitioners seldom identify psychological problems in their patients, they identified about half their patients as having some type of psychological problems in the past year, although they considered that these were moderate or severe in about only one in ten patients. Further work from this large New Zealand study will focus on the nature of the relationship between disorder and disability, and on the recognition, management and outcome of psychological problems.}, }
@article {pmid12739380, year = {2002}, author = {Yamamoto, T and Oishi, K and Oya, Y and Ogawa, M and Kawai, M}, title = {[Compulsive repetition of movements in a case of progressive supranuclear palsy].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {42}, number = {10}, pages = {925-929}, pmid = {12739380}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {*Compulsive Behavior ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Supranuclear Palsy, Progressive/*psychology ; }, abstract = {A 51-year-old right-handed man with an 8-year history of progressive supranuclear palsy developed a peculiar behavior including compulsive repetition of movements. At the age of 47, it was noted that he continuously scratched his trunk with the right hand. He also scratched his thighs until his trousers were torn. On the scalp, posterior neck and forearms, patches of skin were scraped away and the bleeding wounds were scratched over and over again. Although he perceived pain, he could not terminate the strange scratching movement. He could not stop his eating action even after the bowl became empty. He could not leave the bathroom because he continued to wipe the anus after defecation. Yet the patient was not demented. Psychometric assessments including Wechsler adult intelligence scale revised, meaningful and meaningless syllables memory test. Raven's color matrix test, Wisconsin card sorting test (Keio version), and modified Stroop test were within the normal range. When requested to write a letter or a figure, he was always successful, however, he endlessly wrote the same letter or figure until he was told to stop. Although he repeated the behavior and could not terminate the action by himself, he immediately stopped the action on verbal command. When another task was given during the repetitive action, he responded quickly and successfully. His strange behavior was compulsive because he wanted to cease it, but it was not compulsive-obsessive behavior because he did not feel anxiety or pain when his repetitive action was stopped. It was different from stereotypy because he repeated not only meaningless movements but also meaningful complex actions. Unlike perseveration, he changed his activity immediately and successfully when a new task was given. Magnetic resonance imaging findings were remarkable only for mild atrophy of the midbrain tegmentum. Single photon emission computed tomography with ethyl cysteinate dimer demonstrated hypoperfusion in the frontal lobes and the left thalamus. A thalamofrontal disconnection or dysfunction is suggested as the mechanism underlying the compulsive repetifim of moving its based on the SPECT findings in this patient.}, }
@article {pmid12737666, year = {2003}, author = {Hunt, GR and Gray, RD}, title = {Diversification and cumulative evolution in New Caledonian crow tool manufacture.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {270}, number = {1517}, pages = {867-874}, pmid = {12737666}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animal Communication ; Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Biological Evolution ; Birds/*physiology ; Environment ; Manufactured Materials ; Mental Processes ; New Caledonia ; *Technology ; }, abstract = {Many animals use tools but only humans are generally considered to have the cognitive sophistication required for cumulative technological evolution. Three important characteristics of cumulative technological evolution are: (i) the diversification of tool design; (ii) cumulative change; and (iii) high-fidelity social transmission. We present evidence that crows have diversified and cumulatively changed the design of their pandanus tools. In 2000 we carried out an intensive survey in New Caledonia to establish the geographical variation in the manufacture of these tools. We documented the shapes of 5550 tools from 21 sites throughout the range of pandanus tool manufacture. We found three distinct pandanus tool designs: wide tools, narrow tools and stepped tools. The lack of ecological correlates of the three tool designs and their different, continuous and overlapping geographical distributions make it unlikely that they evolved independently. The similarities in the manufacture method of each design further suggest that pandanus tools have gone through a process of cumulative change from a common historical origin. We propose a plausible scenario for this rudimentary cumulative evolution.}, }
@article {pmid12737548, year = {2002}, author = {Turell, MJ and O'Guinn, ML and Dohm, DJ and Webb, JP and Sardelis, MR}, title = {Vector competence of Culex tarsalis from Orange County, California, for West Nile virus.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {2}, number = {3}, pages = {193-196}, doi = {10.1089/15303660260613756}, pmid = {12737548}, issn = {1530-3667}, mesh = {Animals ; California ; Chickens/parasitology/virology ; Culex/physiology/*virology ; Female ; Insect Vectors/physiology/*virology ; Viral Plaque Assay ; West Nile Fever/*transmission ; West Nile virus/*physiology ; }, abstract = {To evaluate the vector competence of Culex tarsalis Coquillett for West Nile virus (WN), females reared from larvae collected in Huntington Beach, Orange County, CA, were fed on 2-3-day-old chickens previously inoculated with a New York strain (Crow 397-99) of WN. The Cx. tarsalis mosquitoes were efficient laboratory vectors of WN, with estimated transmission rates of 81% and 91% for mosquitoes that ingested 10(6.5) or 10(7.3) plaque-forming units of WN/mL of blood, respectively. Based on efficiency of viral transmission and the role of this species in the transmission of the closely related St. Louis encephalitis virus, Cx. tarsalis should be considered a potentially important vector of WN in the western United States.}, }
@article {pmid12737544, year = {2002}, author = {Julian, KG and Eidson, M and Kipp, AM and Weiss, E and Petersen, LR and Miller, JR and Hinten, SR and Marfin, AA}, title = {Early season crow mortality as a sentinel for West Nile virus disease in humans, northeastern United States.}, journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)}, volume = {2}, number = {3}, pages = {145-155}, doi = {10.1089/15303660260613710}, pmid = {12737544}, issn = {1530-3667}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*mortality/*virology ; *Disease Outbreaks ; Disease Reservoirs/veterinary ; Humans ; Mid-Atlantic Region/epidemiology ; New England/epidemiology ; Risk ; Seasons ; *Sentinel Surveillance ; Songbirds/*virology ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/mortality/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification ; Zoonoses/epidemiology/virology ; }, abstract = {The 1999 New York epidemic of human West Nile virus (WN) encephalitis and meningitis was preceded by a crow die-off also caused by WN infection. As one component of the subsequently developed national surveillance system, crow mortality data were collected to detect WN activity before humans might become infected. However, predicting areas at risk for human WN disease likely requires assessment of multiple factors, including the intensity and timing of crow epizootics. To identify early season measures of WN activity in crows associated with subsequent WN disease in humans, county-level crow mortality data from seven northeastern states were analyzed. A predictive model was developed based on analysis of 2000 surveillance data and then assessed for 2001. To characterize the intensity of early season WN activity in crows, 15 variables were constructed from surveillance data of 52 counties that tested at least four crows during the early season (defined as June 17-July 28, 2000). County values for each variable were dichotomized at the 75th percentile into "high" and "low" activity. Multivariate analysis indicated that "high" early season activity of two variables-density of reported dead crow sightings (reported dead crows/area) and [(WN-infected crows/tested crows) x (human population)]--were associated with report of at least one human WN disease case (for each variable: adjusted odds ratio, 6.9; 95% confidence interval, 1.2-40.6). An assessment of this model using 2001 surveillance data from 61 counties yielded similar findings. With emphasis on early season WN activity, crow surveillance may allow timely targeting of interventions to protect the public health.}, }
@article {pmid12735938, year = {2003}, author = {Noveck, IA and Posada, A}, title = {Characterizing the time course of an implicature: an evoked potentials study.}, journal = {Brain and language}, volume = {85}, number = {2}, pages = {203-210}, doi = {10.1016/s0093-934x(03)00053-1}, pmid = {12735938}, issn = {0093-934X}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Brain/physiology ; Electroencephalography ; Electrooculography ; Evoked Potentials/*physiology ; Functional Laterality/physiology ; Humans ; Language ; Reaction Time ; *Semantics ; Speech Perception ; }, abstract = {This work employs Evoked Potential techniques as 19 participants are confronted with sentences that have the potential to produce scalar implicatures, like in Some elephants have trunks. Such an Underinformative utterance is of interest to pragmatists because it can be considered to have two different truth values. It can be considered true when taken at face value but false if one were to treat Some with the implicature Not All. Two accounts of implicature production are compared. The neo-Gricean approach (e.g., Levinson, 2000) assumes that implicatures intrude automatically on the semantics of a term like Some. Relevance Theory (Sperber &amp; Wilson, 1985/1996) assumes that implicatures are effortful and not automatic. In this experiment, the participants are presented with 25 Underinformative sentences along with 25 sentences that are Patently True (e.g. Some houses have bricks) and 25 that are Patently False (e.g. Some crows have radios). As reported in an earlier study (Noveck, 2001), Underinformative sentences prompt strong individual differences. Seven participants here responded true to all (or nearly all) of the Underinformative sentences and the remaining 12 responded false to all (or nearly all) of them. The present study showed that those who responded false to the Underinformative sentences took significantly longer to do so that those who responded true. The ERP data indicate that: (a) the Patently True and Patently False sentences prompt steeper N400's--indicating greater semantic integration--than the Underinformative sentences and that (b) regardless of one's ultimate response to the Underinformative sentences, the N400's were remarkably flat, indicating no particular reaction to these sentences. Collectively, the data are taken to show that implicatures are part of a late-arriving, effort-demanding decision process.}, }
@article {pmid12734241, year = {2003}, author = {Johnson, AJ and Langevin, S and Wolff, KL and Komar, N}, title = {Detection of anti-West Nile virus immunoglobulin M in chicken serum by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.}, journal = {Journal of clinical microbiology}, volume = {41}, number = {5}, pages = {2002-2007}, pmid = {12734241}, issn = {0095-1137}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/*blood ; Birds/immunology/virology ; Chickens/*immunology/*virology ; Cross Reactions ; Encephalitis Virus, St. Louis/immunology ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay/methods/statistics &amp; numerical data/*veterinary ; Female ; Immunoglobulin M/*blood ; Poultry Diseases/diagnosis/immunology/virology ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Sentinel Surveillance/veterinary ; West Nile Fever/diagnosis/immunology/veterinary ; West Nile virus/*immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {The emergence of West Nile (WN) virus in New York and the surrounding area in 1999 prompted an increase in surveillance measures throughout the United States, including the screening of sentinel chicken flocks for antibodies. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of chicken immunoglobulin M (IgM) to WN virus was developed, standardized, and characterized as a rapid and sensitive means to detect WN viral antibodies in sentinel flocks. Serum specimens from experimentally infected chickens were analyzed by using this assay, and IgM was detected as early as 3 to 7 days postinfection. Persistence of IgM varied from at least 19 to more than 61 days postinfection, which indicates the need to bleed sentinel flocks at least every 2 weeks for optimal results if this method is to be used as a screening tool. The ELISA was compared to hemagglutination-inhibition and plaque reduction neutralization tests and was found to be the method of choice when early detection of WN antibody is required. House sparrows and rock doves are potential free-ranging sentinel species for WN virus, and the chicken WN IgM-capture ELISA was capable of detecting anti-WN IgM in house sparrow serum samples from laboratory-infected birds but not from rock dove serum samples. The chicken WN IgM-capture ELISA detected anti-WN antibodies in serum samples from naturally infected chickens. It also detected IgM in serum samples from two species of geese and from experimentally infected ring-necked pheasants, American crows, common grackles, and redwinged blackbirds. However, the test was determined to be less appropriate than an IgG (IgY)-based assay for use with free-ranging birds. The positive-to-negative ratios in the ELISA were similar regardless of the strain of WN viral antigen used, and only minimal cross-reactivity was observed between the WN and St. Louis encephalitis (SLE) IgM-capture ELISAs. A blind-coded serum panel was tested, and the chicken WN IgM-capture ELISA produced consistent results, with the exception of one borderline result. A preliminary test was done to assess the feasibility of a combined SLE and WN IgM-capture ELISA, and results were promising.}, }
@article {pmid12718190, year = {2001}, author = {Grigor'ev, MP and Evchenko, IuM and Shaposhnikova, LI and Shchenetts, KV and Emel'ianov, SA and Ermolova, NV and Tikhenko, NI and Levchenko, BI}, title = {[Role of some wild birds and mammals in the natural foci of Crimean haemorrhagic fever in Stavropol' region].}, journal = {Zhurnal mikrobiologii, epidemiologii i immunobiologii}, volume = {}, number = {6 Suppl}, pages = {92-95}, pmid = {12718190}, issn = {0372-9311}, mesh = {Animals ; *Arachnid Vectors ; Birds/*parasitology ; Hares/*parasitology ; Hedgehogs ; *Hemorrhagic Fever Virus, Crimean-Congo ; Hemorrhagic Fever, Crimean/*transmission ; *Ixodes ; Larva ; Nymph ; Population Surveillance ; Russia ; Seasons ; Songbirds ; Turkeys ; }, abstract = {The results of the study on the role of some wild mammals and birds as feeding sources of for ticks Hyalomma marginatum, the main vectors of Crimean haemorrhagic fever virus in the Stavropol Territory, in the preimago phases of their development are presented. These phases (larvae and nymphs) were found on rooks, hooded crows, partridges, European brown hares and eared hedgehogs. The examination of domestic fowl resulted in finding larvae and nymphs in small amounts on turkeys. According to the data of the epizootological survey carried out in summer and autumn of 2000 in the Stavropol Territory, rooks and, to a lesser extent, hares were found to be the main feeding sources for ticks in the preimago phases. Rodents seemed to be of minimal importance as feeding sources under the conditions of the Stavropol Territory. Of all animals, rooks must be the main object in the epizootological survey of the territory.}, }
@article {pmid12716987, year = {2003}, author = {Odeen, A and Hastad, O}, title = {Complex distribution of avian color vision systems revealed by sequencing the SWS1 opsin from total DNA.}, journal = {Molecular biology and evolution}, volume = {20}, number = {6}, pages = {855-861}, doi = {10.1093/molbev/msg108}, pmid = {12716987}, issn = {0737-4038}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Color Perception/*genetics ; DNA/*genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Rod Opsins/chemistry/*genetics ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {To gain insights into the evolution and ecology of visually acute animals such as birds, biologists often need to understand how these animals perceive colors. This poses a problem, since the human eye is of a different design than that of most other animals. The standard solution is to examine the spectral sensitivity properties of animal retinas through microspectophotometry-a procedure that is rather complicated and therefore only has allowed examinations of a limited number of species to date. We have developed a faster and simpler molecular method, which can be used to estimate the color sensitivities of a bird by sequencing a part of the gene coding for the ultraviolet or violet absorbing opsin in the avian retina. With our method, there is no need to sacrifice the animal, and it thereby facilitates large screenings, including rare and endangered species beyond the reach of microspectrophotometry. Color vision in birds may be categorized into two classes: one with a short-wavelength sensitivity biased toward violet (VS) and the other biased toward ultraviolet (UVS). Using our method on 45 species from 35 families, we demonstrate that the distribution of avian color vision is more complex than has previously been shown. Our data support VS as the ancestral state in birds and show that UVS has evolved independently at least four times. We found species with the UVS type of color vision in the orders Psittaciformes and Passeriformes, in agreement with previous findings. However, species within the families Corvidae and Tyrannidae did not share this character with other passeriforms. We also found UVS type species within the Laridae and Struthionidae families. Raptors (Accipitridae and Falconidae) are of the violet type, giving them a vision system different from their passeriform prey. Intriguing effects on the evolution of color signals can be expected from interactions between predators and prey. Such interactions may explain the presence of UVS in Laridae and Passeriformes.}, }
@article {pmid12708780, year = {2003}, author = {Kabelitz, D}, title = {Why not work on T and NK cells in the Kunkel laboratory?.}, journal = {Lupus}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, pages = {195-199}, doi = {10.1191/0961203303lu355xx}, pmid = {12708780}, issn = {0961-2033}, mesh = {Allergy and Immunology/*history ; Autoimmune Diseases/*history/immunology ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Killer Cells, Natural/*immunology ; Lymphocyte Culture Test, Mixed ; T-Lymphocytes/*immunology ; }, abstract = {Coming from Hans Wigzell's laboratory in Uppsala, Sweden, I joined the Kunkel laboratory in 1981 to spend a post-doctoral fellowship period financed by the German Research Organization. While I initially worked with Nick Chiorazzi in an attempt to generate monoclonal antibody-secreting human B-cell hybridomas, I later studied the in vitro effects of tumor promoters on human natural killer cells and collaborated with Mary Crow on some aspects of the so-called autologous mixed lymphocyte reaction. Working in the stimulating atmosphere of the Kunkel laboratory was an exceptional experience. I was particularly impressed by the efficient organization of clinical research at Rockefeller University. The following is a very personal resumee of my stay in the Kunkel laboratory.}, }
@article {pmid12703337, year = {2003}, author = {Moss, SW}, title = {John A. Kenney, MD, and the North Jersey Medical Society. Taking on Jim Crow.}, journal = {New Jersey medicine : the journal of the Medical Society of New Jersey}, volume = {100}, number = {4}, pages = {37-41}, pmid = {12703337}, issn = {0885-842X}, mesh = {Black or African American/*history ; History, 20th Century ; Hospitals, Voluntary/history ; Humans ; New Jersey ; Periodicals as Topic/history ; Prejudice ; Societies, Medical/*history ; }, }
@article {pmid12696795, year = {2003}, author = {Ma, CM and Jiang, SB and Pawlicki, T and Chen, Y and Li, JS and Deng, J and Boyer, AL}, title = {A quality assurance phantom for IMRT dose verification.}, journal = {Physics in medicine and biology}, volume = {48}, number = {5}, pages = {561-572}, doi = {10.1088/0031-9155/48/5/301}, pmid = {12696795}, issn = {0031-9155}, support = {CA78331/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Equipment Design ; Phantoms, Imaging/*standards ; Polymethyl Methacrylate ; Quality Assurance, Health Care/methods/*standards ; Quality Control ; Radiometry/instrumentation/methods/*standards ; Radiotherapy Dosage/standards ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/instrumentation/methods/*standards ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*instrumentation/methods/*standards ; Reference Standards ; United States ; }, abstract = {This paper investigates a quality assurance (QA) phantom specially designed to verify the accuracy of dose distributions and monitor units (MU) calculated by clinical treatment planning optimization systems and by the Monte Carlo method for intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). The QA phantom is a PMMA cylinder of 30 cm diameter and 40 cm length with various bone and lung inserts. A procedure (and formalism) has been developed to measure the absolute dose to water in the PMMA phantom. Another cylindrical phantom of the same dimensions, but made of water, was used to confirm the results obtained with the PMMA phantom. The PMMA phantom was irradiated by 4, 6 and 15 MV photon beams and the dose was measured using an ionization chamber and compared to the results calculated by a commercial inverse planning system (CORVUS, NOMOS, Sewickley, PA) and by the Monte Carlo method. The results show that the dose distributions calculated by both CORVUS and Monte Carlo agreed to within 2% of dose maximum with measured results in the uniform PMMA phantom for both open and intensity-modulated fields. Similar agreement was obtained between Monte Carlo calculations and measured results with the bone and lung heterogeneity inside the PMMA phantom while the CORVUS results were 4% different. The QA phantom has been integrated as a routine QA procedure for the patient's IMRT dose verification at Stanford since 1999.}, }
@article {pmid12693852, year = {2003}, author = {Kent, RJ and Lacer, LD and Meisch, MV}, title = {Initiating arbovirus surveillance in Arkansas, 2001.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {40}, number = {2}, pages = {223-229}, doi = {10.1603/0022-2585-40.2.223}, pmid = {12693852}, issn = {0022-2585}, mesh = {Animals ; Arbovirus Infections/*epidemiology/*prevention &amp; control/transmission ; Arboviruses/*classification/isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity ; Arkansas/epidemiology ; Birds/virology ; Culicidae/*virology ; Geography ; Insect Vectors ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/prevention &amp; control/transmission ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {Migratory birds could introduce West Nile (WN) virus to Arkansas. The purpose of this study was to establish a cooperative arbovirus surveillance program to monitor mosquitoes and birds in Arkansas for arboviruses. Our objectives were to: 1) perform routine, multicounty collections of mosquitoes and test them for eastern equine encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, and WN viruses; and 2) conduct passive surveillance by testing dead wild birds for WN virus. Arbovirus surveillance was organized by the Arkansas Department of Health, University of Arkansas, and Vector Disease Control Incorporated. None of the 14,560 mosquitoes (425 pools) tested were virus positive. Two hundred forty-two dead birds from 62 counties were tested for WN virus. Four blue jays in three counties were positive. These infections are the first reported incidences of WN virus in Arkansas. Sera from five horses with suspected encephalitis all tested negative for WN, eastern equine encephalitis, and western equine encephalitis viruses.}, }
@article {pmid12693851, year = {2003}, author = {Ngo, KA and Kramer, LD}, title = {Identification of mosquito bloodmeals using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with order-specific primers.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {40}, number = {2}, pages = {215-222}, doi = {10.1603/0022-2585-40.2.215}, pmid = {12693851}, issn = {0022-2585}, support = {U50CCU22053201/CC/ODCDC CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; Birds/*blood/classification/parasitology ; *Blood ; Culicidae/genetics/*physiology ; Cytochrome b Group/*blood/*genetics ; *DNA Primers ; *Feeding Behavior ; Geography ; New York ; Restriction Mapping ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Songbirds/blood/classification/parasitology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocol was developed to identify host bloodmeals from mosquitoes. Primers for the cytochrome b gene were designed to distinguish between mammalian and avian bloodmeals and further differentiate among four avian orders: passeriformes, falconiformes, columbiformes, and galliformes. The assay was validated by testing tissues from 18 species of passeriformes, three species of falconiformes, three species of columbiformes, and two species of galliformes. American crows were distinguished from other passeriformes by restriction enzyme digestion. Host bloodmeals from engorged mosquitoes collected in New York State were identified to avian order level. PCR was able to detect the mosquito bloodmeal for up to 3 d after feeding on a quail. Significantly, these studies use order-specific primers in a single PCR test to identify mosquito bloodmeals.}, }
@article {pmid12693826, year = {2003}, author = {Horseman, RE}, title = {Crow's feet and white teeth.}, journal = {Journal of the California Dental Association}, volume = {31}, number = {3}, pages = {282, 281}, pmid = {12693826}, issn = {1043-2256}, mesh = {Aging/pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Skin Aging/*pathology ; Tooth/pathology ; *Tooth Bleaching/instrumentation/methods ; Tooth Discoloration/therapy ; *Wit and Humor as Topic ; }, }
@article {pmid12685081, year = {2003}, author = {Garvin, MC and Greiner, EC}, title = {Ecology of Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) in southcentral Florida and experimental Culicoides vectors of the avian hematozoan Haemoproteus danilewskyi Kruse.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {39}, number = {1}, pages = {170-178}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-39.1.170}, pmid = {12685081}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/parasitology/*transmission ; Ceratopogonidae/classification/growth &amp; development/*parasitology ; Ecosystem ; Florida ; Haemosporida/*growth &amp; development ; Insect Vectors/classification/growth &amp; development/*parasitology ; Population Density ; Protozoan Infections, Animal/parasitology/*transmission ; Rain ; Seasons ; Songbirds/*parasitology ; Temperature ; }, abstract = {To determine the vectors of Haemoproteus danilewskyi in blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) in southcentral Florida (USA), we conducted a 2 yr study from January 1993 to December 1995 of the presence and seasonal abundance of Culicoides spp. Of the 14 species of Culicoides captured in Centers for Disease Control light traps, 10 were ornithophilic. Of these, C. edeni, C. knowltoni, C. stellifer, C. beckae, and C. arboricola were most abundant, representing 46% of the total collection and 99% of the ornithophilic collection. The presence of C. stellifer in Bennett trap collections represents a new biting record for this species on passerine birds. We experimentally challenged the most abundant ornithophilic species to determine which were capable of supporting sporogonic development of H. danilewskyi. Culicoides edeni, C. knowltoni, and C. arboricola supported sporogonic development of H. danilewskyi.}, }
@article {pmid12685080, year = {2003}, author = {Garvin, MC and Homer, BL and Greiner, EC}, title = {Pathogenicity of Haemoproteus danilewskyi, Kruse, 1890, in blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata).}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {39}, number = {1}, pages = {161-169}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-39.1.161}, pmid = {12685080}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*blood/pathology ; Erythrocytes/parasitology ; Female ; Haemosporida/growth &amp; development/*pathogenicity ; Leukocyte Count/veterinary ; Liver/parasitology/pathology ; Lung/parasitology/pathology ; Male ; Parasitemia/veterinary ; Protozoan Infections, Animal/*blood/pathology ; Random Allocation ; Songbirds/*parasitology ; Spleen/parasitology/pathology ; }, abstract = {Although the impact of blood parasite infections on passerine birds is potentially great, little is known of their pathologic effects. We studied Haemoproteus danilewskyi in experimentally infected captive and naturally infected free-ranging blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) to determine patterns of infection and examine the pathologic effects of the parasite on the host. Physiologic changes, such as elevated numbers of lymphocytes, heterophils, basophils, eosinophils, and monocytes and decreased packed cell volume in the peripheral blood were associated with the erythrocytic phase of experimental infections of captive juvenile jays. Sublethal pathologic changes associated with the pre-erythrocytic phase of infections were observed in the liver, lung, and spleen. Schizonts were observed in the pulmonary capillaries of a 1 yr old jay necropsied 31 days post-inoculation, but not in 20 juvenile jays necropsied 57 days post-inoculation. In free-ranging naturally infected jays plasma protein concentration increased with density of natural infections.}, }
@article {pmid12685064, year = {2003}, author = {Daniels, MJ and Hutchings, MR and Beard, PM and Henderson, D and Greig, A and Stevenson, K and Sharp, JM}, title = {Do non-ruminant wildlife pose a risk of paratuberculosis to domestic livestock and vice versa in Scotland?.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {39}, number = {1}, pages = {10-15}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-39.1.10}, pmid = {12685064}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animal Feed ; Animals ; *Animals, Domestic ; *Animals, Wild ; Feces/microbiology ; Food Contamination ; Mycobacterium tuberculosis/pathogenicity ; Paratuberculosis/epidemiology/*transmission ; Risk Factors ; Scotland/epidemiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Paratuberculosis (Johne's disease) was long considered only a disease of ruminants. Recently non-ruminant wildlife species have been shown to harbor Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis, the causative organism of paratuberculosis. We review the known non-ruminant wildlife host range of M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis and consider their role in the epidemiology of paratuberculosis in domestic ruminant livestock. Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis has been isolated from lagomorph, canid, mustelid, corvid, and murid species. In agricultural environments domestic ruminants may contact wildlife and/or their excreta when grazing or feeding on farm-stored feed contaminated with wildlife feces, opening up the possibility of inter-species transmission. Of the wildlife species known to harbor M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis in Scotland, the rabbit is likely to pose the greatest risk to grazing livestock. Paratuberculosis in domestic ruminants is a notoriously difficult disease to control; the participation of non-ruminant wildlife in the epidemiology of the disease may partially account for this difficulty.}, }
@article {pmid12685063, year = {2003}, author = {Garvin, MC and Greiner, EC}, title = {Epizootiology of Haemoproteus danilewskyi (Haemosporina: Haemoproteidae) in blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) in southcentral Florida.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {39}, number = {1}, pages = {1-9}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-39.1.1}, pmid = {12685063}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/parasitology ; Ceratopogonidae/parasitology ; Female ; Florida/epidemiology ; Haemosporida/*isolation &amp; purification ; Insect Vectors/parasitology ; Male ; Prevalence ; Protozoan Infections, Animal/*epidemiology/parasitology ; Seasons ; Songbirds/*parasitology ; }, abstract = {Prevalence and density of Haemoproteus danilewskyi was studied in a population of free-ranging blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) in southcentral Florida (USA) from May 1992 to December 1995. Prevalence of infection was 27% for data combined over years, seasons, ages, and sexes. Prevalence did not vary between sexes or among years, but increased with age and varied with season, being highest in June-July and lowest in November-January. Parasite density did not vary between sexes or among seasons, but was higher in younger birds when controlling for season. To determine periods of natural transmission, seasonal patterns of infection were compared with previous month abundance of the biting fly vectors. Mean monthly prevalence of H. danilewskyi in older jays was positively correlated with previous month abundance of Culicoides edeni and C. arboricola, both capable of sporogonic development of H. danilewskyi.}, }
@article {pmid12684206, year = {2003}, author = {Russell, J and Thompson, D}, title = {Memory development in the second year: for events or locations?.}, journal = {Cognition}, volume = {87}, number = {3}, pages = {B97-B105}, doi = {10.1016/s0010-0277(02)00238-x}, pmid = {12684206}, issn = {0010-0277}, mesh = {*Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; Humans ; Infant ; *Memory ; *Orientation ; *Psychomotor Performance ; }, abstract = {We employed an object-placement/object-removal design, inspired by recent work on 'episodic-like' memory in scrub jays (Clayton, N. S., &amp; Dickinson, A. (1998). Episodic-like memory during cache recovery by scrub jays. Nature, 395, 272-274), to examine the possibility that children in the second year of life have event-based memories. In one task, a successful search could have been due to the recall of an object-removal event. In the second task, a successful search could only have been caused by recall of where objects were located. Success was general in the oldest group of children (21-25 months), while performance was broadly similar on the two tasks. The parsimonious interpretation of this outcome is that the first task was performed by location memory, not by event memory. We place these data in the context of object permanence development.}, }
@article {pmid12678958, year = {2003}, author = {Wang, SS and Lu, L and Wang, XR and Ning, L and Bai, B and Jiang, DQ and Wang, M and An, GW}, title = {[Study on subcretin in 8 minorities of Yunnan province].}, journal = {Zhonghua liu xing bing xue za zhi = Zhonghua liuxingbingxue zazhi}, volume = {24}, number = {1}, pages = {26-29}, pmid = {12678958}, issn = {0254-6450}, mesh = {Child ; Child Development ; China/epidemiology ; Congenital Hypothyroidism/*epidemiology ; Ethnicity ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Prevalence ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of subcretins in 8 minorities of Yunnan province and to provide scientific basis for public health policy-making, as well as for prevention and control of iodine deficiency disorders.<br><br>METHODS: Four thousand two hundred and twenty-two minority school children aged 8-12 years selected from 29 schools in 8 minority counties were measured by Combined Raven's Test in China (CRT-C(2)) and Jinyi Psychomotor test Battery (JPB).<br><br>RESULTS: Average of intelligence quotient (IQ) on 4,222 children was 91 +/- 19. Among 277 pupils with IQ between 55 - 69, 119 of them showed abnormal on JPB test and 5.4% of the children was found to have Goiter under ultrasonography. Median level of urinary iodine was 466.9 microg/L, and the qualified rate of iodized salt was 94.9%.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The estimated prevalence rate of subcretin was 2.8%.}, }
@article {pmid12675982, year = {2003}, author = {McKinzey, RK and Prieler, J and Raven, J}, title = {Detection of children's malingering on Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {The British journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {42}, number = {Pt 1}, pages = {95-99}, doi = {10.1348/014466503762842048}, pmid = {12675982}, issn = {0144-6657}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Malingering/*diagnosis ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {A formula for detecting faked Raven's SPM profiles was cross-validated on 44 children and adolescents (ages 7-17). It yielded a false negative rate of 64%. However, a rule using three very easy items (i.e., any of A3, A4 or B1 missed) yielded a hit rate of 95%, with 5% false positive and negative rates. All but two of the participants were able to produce lower scores when asked to fake the test.}, }
@article {pmid12661111, year = {2002}, author = {Namekawa, M and Muramatsu, S and Hashimoto, R and Kawakami, T and Fujimoto, K and Nakano, I}, title = {[A case of Crow-Fukase syndrome with respiratory failure due to bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {42}, number = {7}, pages = {635-638}, pmid = {12661111}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*etiology ; Respiratory Insufficiency/*etiology ; Respiratory Paralysis/*complications ; }, abstract = {A 62-year-old man with well-controlled diabetes mellitus developed numbness of the bilateral feet and hands, followed by subacutely progressive weakness and amyotrophy of extremities. He became bed-ridden state, and dyspnea also appeared, so he was referred to our hospital. Physical examination revealed a lean man, with dark-reddish skin pigmentation, crabbed fingers, bilateral pretibial pitting edema, and bristles in extremities. Thoracoabdominal paradoxical respiration was observed and pulmonary vesicular sounds was decreased markedly in the both lungs. Laboratory data revealed hypoproteinemia, abnormalities of endocrine system, but M-protein was not detected. Serum vascular endothelial growth factor level was quite high. Chest radiography revealed elevation of the bilateral diaphragm, the % vital capacity (%VC) was 24%, and arterial blood gas analysis showed marked hypoxia with hypercapnia. These findings suggested that his respiratory failure was induced by bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis caused by bilateral phrenic nerve palsy due to Crow-Fukase syndrome. He became somnolent because of hypercapnic narcosis, so non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) was started. We treated him with intravenous immunoglobulin and oral corticosteroids therapies, and after these therapies, his symptoms were remarkably recovered and NIPPV became unnecessary soon. The most frequent causes of respiratory failure in Crow-Fukase syndrome are pleural effusion and pulmonary hypertension, and only two cases of this syndrome with respiratory failure caused by bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis were reported until now. When the patients with Crow-Fukase syndrome complain of dyspnea, we should take the diaphragmatic paralysis into consideration, which may be improved by appropriate therapies.}, }
@article {pmid12648389, year = {2003}, author = {Rabbitt, P and Chetwynd, A and McInnes, L}, title = {Do clever brains age more slowly? Further exploration of a nun result.}, journal = {British journal of psychology (London, England : 1953)}, volume = {94}, number = {Pt 1}, pages = {63-71}, doi = {10.1348/000712603762842101}, pmid = {12648389}, issn = {0007-1269}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*physiology/*psychology ; Brain/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Language Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Models, Psychological ; Occupations/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Sex Factors ; Time Factors ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {Recent epidemiological evidence suggests that individuals who have higher levels of mental ability in youth experience a slower cognitive decline as they grow old. In a sample of 3,263 Newcastle residents, average scores on a vocabulary test (Raven's 1965 'Mill Hill A') did not vary, while average scores on a test of fluid mental ability (the Heim, 1970, AH 4 (1) group intelligence test) sharply declined with age from 49 to 92 years. In young adults, Mill Hill A scores are good proxies for AH 4 (1) scores. This relationship allowed individuals' youthful AH 4 (1) test scores to be estimated from their current, unchanged, Mill Hill A scores so that age-related changes in AH 4 test scores over the adult life-span could be estimated and compared between high and low ability groups, men and women, and individuals of different levels of socio-economic advantage. The cross-sectional estimated rate of age-related decline in general mental ability was found to be the same for people of all levels of ability and socio-economic advantage, and not to differ between men and women.}, }
@article {pmid12647739, year = {2003}, author = {Orton-Jay, L}, title = {Formation of the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists (IFPA). An interview with Linda Orton-Jay.}, journal = {Complementary therapies in nursing &amp; midwifery}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {35-37}, doi = {10.1016/s1353-6117(02)00134-8}, pmid = {12647739}, issn = {1353-6117}, mesh = {*Aromatherapy ; Female ; Humans ; International Agencies ; Societies, Medical/*organization &amp; administration ; }, }
@article {pmid12647726, year = {2003}, author = {Banks, A}, title = {The nurturers. Interview by Jay Greene.}, journal = {Healthplan}, volume = {44}, number = {1}, pages = {33-34}, pmid = {12647726}, issn = {1087-3678}, mesh = {Adoption ; Child ; Child Rearing ; Colorado ; Children with Disabilities ; Female ; Health Maintenance Organizations/*standards ; Humans ; Mothers/*psychology ; Parenting ; *Patient-Centered Care ; *Quality of Health Care ; }, }
@article {pmid12647137, year = {2003}, author = {Reynolds, SJ and Schoech, SJ and Bowman, R}, title = {Nutritional quality of prebreeding diet influences breeding performance of the Florida scrub-jay.}, journal = {Oecologia}, volume = {134}, number = {3}, pages = {308-316}, pmid = {12647137}, issn = {0029-8549}, mesh = {Animal Feed/*standards ; Animal Husbandry/methods ; *Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Breeding ; Dietary Fats/administration &amp; dosage ; Dietary Proteins/administration &amp; dosage ; Dietary Supplements/*standards ; *Eggs/analysis/standards ; Female ; Florida ; Male ; Nutritive Value ; Oviposition/*physiology ; Random Allocation ; Reproduction ; }, abstract = {Food supplementation studies of breeding birds have traditionally concentrated on energetic constraints on breeding performance. It is only recently that the nutritional quality of the prebreeding diet has also been considered influential. We examined the importance of specific nutrients in the prebreeding diet of the Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens). Birds were provided with one of two supplements (rich in protein and fat or rich in fat only) prior to breeding in 2000 and 2001 and their breeding performance, in relation to unsupplemented (control) birds, was examined. Birds receiving both supplements significantly advanced laying in both years, and increased clutch size in 2000 but not in 2001. Laying date explained variation in clutch size in birds on dietary supplements. Egg mass and volume declined with laying order, irrespective of dietary treatment, but birds on the high fat, high protein diet laid heavier third eggs than controls and this was independent of laying date. Laboratory analysis of 14 abandoned and unhatched eggs revealed that as egg mass increased so did the absolute amount of protein and water while fat content remained relatively fixed. Using these relationships between the masses of egg components and fresh egg mass, we calculated that heavier third eggs laid by birds on high fat and high protein, compared with those laid by controls, contained more water that may be fundamental to chick growth and survival. This is the first demonstration for an avian species that nutritional quality of prebreeding diet can simultaneously influence laying date, clutch size, and egg size and composition.}, }
@article {pmid12643825, year = {2003}, author = {Komar, N and Langevin, S and Hinten, S and Nemeth, N and Edwards, E and Hettler, D and Davis, B and Bowen, R and Bunning, M}, title = {Experimental infection of North American birds with the New York 1999 strain of West Nile virus.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {311-322}, pmid = {12643825}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Culex ; Female ; Male ; Species Specificity ; Viral Load ; West Nile Fever/physiopathology/*transmission ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {To evaluate transmission dynamics, we exposed 25 bird species to West Nile virus (WNV) by infectious mosquito bite. We monitored viremia titers, clinical outcome, WNV shedding (cloacal and oral), seroconversion, virus persistence in organs, and susceptibility to oral and contact transmission. Passeriform and charadriiform birds were more reservoir competent (a derivation of viremia data) than other species tested. The five most competent species were passerines: Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata), Common Grackle (Quiscalus quiscula), House Finch (Carpodacus mexicanus), American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), and House Sparrow (Passer domesticus). Death occurred in eight species. Cloacal shedding of WNV was observed in 17 of 24 species, and oral shedding in 12 of 14 species. We observed contact transmission among four species and oral in five species. Persistent WNV infections were found in tissues of 16 surviving birds. Our observations shed light on transmission ecology of WNV and will benefit surveillance and control programs.}, }
@article {pmid12640053, year = {2003}, author = {Abe, Y and Kachi, T and Kato, T and Arahata, Y and Yamada, T and Washimi, Y and Iwai, K and Ito, K and Yanagisawa, N and Sobue, G}, title = {Occipital hypoperfusion in Parkinson's disease without dementia: correlation to impaired cortical visual processing.}, journal = {Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry}, volume = {74}, number = {4}, pages = {419-422}, pmid = {12640053}, issn = {0022-3050}, mesh = {Aged ; Cerebrovascular Circulation/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/diagnostic imaging/*etiology/*physiopathology ; Dementia/*complications/diagnostic imaging/*physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Occipital Lobe/diagnostic imaging/*physiopathology ; Parkinson Disease/*complications/diagnostic imaging/*physiopathology ; Severity of Illness Index ; Tomography, Emission-Computed, Single-Photon ; Vision Disorders/diagnostic imaging/*etiology/*physiopathology ; Visual Cortex/diagnostic imaging/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to analyse changes in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in Parkinson's disease (PD) without dementia.<br><br>METHODS: Twenty eight non-demented patients with PD and 17 age matched normal subjects underwent single photon emission computed tomography with N-isopropyl-p-[(123)I]iodoamphetamine to measure rCBF. The statistical parametric mapping 96 programme was used for statistical analysis.<br><br>RESULTS: The PD patients showed significantly reduced rCBF in the bilateral occipital and posterior parietal cortices (p<0.01, corrected for multiple comparison p<0.05), when compared with the control subjects. There was a strong positive correlation between the score of Raven's coloured progressive matrices (RCPM) and the rCBF in the right visual association area (p<0.01, corrected for multiple comparison p<0.05) among the PD patients.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study showed occipital and posterior parietal hypoperfusion in PD patients without dementia. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that occipital hypoperfusion is likely to underlie impairment of visual cognition according to the RCPM test, which is not related to motor impairment.}, }
@article {pmid12638255, year = {2003}, author = {Fukuyama, M and Furuhata, K and Oonaka, K and Sakata, S and Hara, M and Kakuno, Y and Itoh, T and Kai, A and Obata, H and Watanabe, T}, title = {[Isolation and serotypes of Vero toxin-producing Escherichia coli (VTEC) from pigeons and crows].}, journal = {Kansenshogaku zasshi. The Journal of the Japanese Association for Infectious Diseases}, volume = {77}, number = {1}, pages = {5-9}, doi = {10.11150/kansenshogakuzasshi1970.77.5}, pmid = {12638255}, issn = {0387-5911}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/microbiology ; Columbidae/*microbiology ; Escherichia coli/*isolation &amp; purification/metabolism ; Japan ; Serotyping ; Shiga Toxins/*biosynthesis ; Songbirds/*microbiology ; Zoonoses ; }, abstract = {To clarify the source and route of infection with Vero toxin-producing Escherichia coli (VTEC) in humans, we sampled gastrointestinal contents and isolated VTEC from wild birds captured to exterminate harmful birds between August 1997 and January 1998. Pigeons were caught in Sagamihara-shi and crows were caught in Sagamihara-shi, Kawasaki-shi, Yokohama-shi, and the Tokyo metropolitan area. The following results were obtained. 1) VTEC was isolated from 32 of 521 birds (6.1%) examined. Among pigeons, VTEC was isolated from 25 of 262 birds (9.5%) captured in Sagamihara-shi. Among crows, VTEC was isolated from 7 of 184 birds (3.8%) captured in Sagamihara-shi, but not isolated from any bird of 11.4, and 60 birds captured in Yokohama-shi, Kawasaki-shi, and the Tokyo metropolitan area, respectively. 2) Toxin was typed in 33 isolates. There were four VT1-producing isolates (6.5%), 27 VT2-producing isolates (88.7%), and two VT1, VT2-producing isolates (4.8%). 3) The serotypes of the isolates were: O78: H-, 10; O152: H-, 7; O153: H19.2; O164: H-, 1; O128: H-, 1; O164/143: H-, and O1: HUT, 1. The serotype was unknown in 10 isolates. Among 10 isolates for which the serotype could not be determined, auto-aggregation was observed in one isolate. 4) EaeA was investigated in the 33 isolates, and 31 isolates (93.9%) possessed eaeA. The above findings showed that strains with same toxin types and serotypes of human diarrhea-derived VTEC were isolated from pigeons and crows, and the isolates frequently possessed eaeA, which is considered to have an important association with its pathology, suggesting that birds are involved in VTEC infection in humans as a source of infection.}, }
@article {pmid12629242, year = {2003}, author = {Dufouil, C and Alpérovitch, A and Tzourio, C}, title = {Influence of education on the relationship between white matter lesions and cognition.}, journal = {Neurology}, volume = {60}, number = {5}, pages = {831-836}, doi = {10.1212/01.wnl.0000049456.33231.96}, pmid = {12629242}, issn = {1526-632X}, mesh = {Aged ; Aging/physiology ; Brain Damage, Chronic/*diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Cerebrovascular Disorders/*diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Cognition/physiology ; Cognition Disorders/*epidemiology ; Cohort Studies ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Educational Status ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; France/epidemiology ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Vascular Diseases/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To test the hypothesis that education level modulates the effects of cerebral white matter hyperintensities (WMH) on cognition in a large population-based study.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 845 elderly subjects aged 64 to 76 years who enrolled in a longitudinal study on cognitive decline and vascular aging had an MRI examination. Cognitive functions were assessed by Mini-Mental State Examination, Trail Making Test Part B, Digit Symbol Substitution Test of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised, Finger Tapping Test, Word Fluency Test, and Raven Progressive Matrix. MRI scans were interpreted visually using a standardized scale for rating WMH.<br><br>RESULTS: Severe WMH were present in 17% of the participants who had lower performances on tests involving attention tasks. In participants with a lower level of education, presence of severe WMH was significantly associated with lower cognitive performances. This was found for all cognitive tests. Conversely, in participants with a high level of education, there was no significant association between severity of WMH and level of cognitive functions.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Education modulates the consequences of WMH on cognition. Participants with a high level of education were protected against the cognitive deterioration related to vascular insults of the brain.}, }
@article {pmid12627843, year = {2002}, author = {Lillandt, BG and Bensch, S and Hansson, B and Wennerberg, L and Von Schantz, T}, title = {Isolation and cross-species amplification of microsatellite loci in the Siberian jay (Perisoreus infaustus).}, journal = {Hereditas}, volume = {137}, number = {2}, pages = {157-160}, doi = {10.1034/j.1601-5223.2002.01675.x}, pmid = {12627843}, issn = {0018-0661}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; Birds/*genetics ; DNA Primers ; *Hybridization, Genetic ; Microsatellite Repeats/*genetics ; }, }
@article {pmid12624941, year = {2003}, author = {El'chinova, GI and Zinchenko, RA and Izhevskiĭ, PV and Ginter, EK}, title = {[Genetic and demographic structure of Russian populations from the Tver' and Rostov regions].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {39}, number = {1}, pages = {107-110}, pmid = {12624941}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {*Demography ; Female ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Male ; Rural Population ; Russia ; Urban Population ; }, abstract = {Based on the data from 569 questionnaires collected in Udomlya and Ostashkov raions of Tver oblast and 436 questionnaires collected in Tsimlyansk and Dubovsk raions of Rostov oblast, genetic demographic characteristics and Crow's index for urban and rural populations of these regions were calculated. The data obtained were compared with those for other Russian populations obtained earlier.}, }
@article {pmid12624027, year = {2003}, author = {Blitvich, BJ and Marlenee, NL and Hall, RA and Calisher, CH and Bowen, RA and Roehrig, JT and Komar, N and Langevin, SA and Beaty, BJ}, title = {Epitope-blocking enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays for the detection of serum antibodies to west nile virus in multiple avian species.}, journal = {Journal of clinical microbiology}, volume = {41}, number = {3}, pages = {1041-1047}, pmid = {12624027}, issn = {0095-1137}, support = {U50 CCU820510/CC/ODCDC CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies/*blood ; Antibody Specificity ; Chickens/virology ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay/*methods ; Flavivirus Infections/blood/immunology/*veterinary/virology ; Songbirds/virology ; West Nile virus/*immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {We report the development of epitope-blocking enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for the rapid detection of serum antibodies to West Nile virus (WNV) in taxonomically diverse North American avian species. A panel of flavivirus-specific monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) was tested in blocking assays with serum samples from WNV-infected chickens and crows. Selected MAbs were further tested against serum samples from birds that represented 16 species and 10 families. Serum samples were collected from birds infected with WNV or Saint Louis encephalitis virus (SLEV) and from noninfected control birds. Serum samples from SLEV-infected birds were included in these experiments because WNV and SLEV are closely related antigenically, are maintained in similar transmission cycles, and have overlapping geographic distributions. The ELISA that utilized MAb 3.1112G potentially discriminated between WNV and SLEV infections, as all serum samples from WNV-infected birds and none from SLEV-infected birds were positive in this assay. Assays with MAbs 2B2 and 6B6C-1 readily detected serum antibodies in all birds infected with WNV and SLEV, respectively, and in most birds infected with the other virus. Two other MAbs partially discriminated between infections with these two viruses. Serum samples from most WNV-infected birds but no SLEV-infected birds were positive with MAb 3.67G, while almost all serum samples from SLEV-infected birds but few from WNV-infected birds were positive with MAb 6B5A-5. The blocking assays reported here provide a rapid, reliable, and inexpensive diagnostic and surveillance technique to monitor WNV activity in multiple avian species.}, }
@article {pmid12617349, year = {2003}, author = {Elbedour, S and Bart, WM and Hektner, J}, title = {Intelligence and family marital structure: the case of adolescents from monogamous and polygamous families among Bedouin Arabs in Israel.}, journal = {The Journal of social psychology}, volume = {143}, number = {1}, pages = {95-110}, doi = {10.1080/00224540309598433}, pmid = {12617349}, issn = {0022-4545}, mesh = {Adolescent ; *Arabs ; Cultural Characteristics ; Family Relations ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Israel/ethnology ; Male ; *Marriage ; }, abstract = {The levels of intelligence among Bedouin Arab adolescents from monogamous and polygamous families living in the Negev region of Israel were examined. A shortened version of the Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM) test (S. Elbedour, T. J. Bouchard, &amp; Y. Hur, 1997; J. Raven, J. C. Raven, &amp; J. H. Court, 1998) was used to assess intelligence. There were no significant test score differences between adolescents from monogamous families and adolescents from polygamous families. In addition, participants with 2 mothers tended to have lower RPM scores than those with 3 or 4 mothers, and participants with related parents tended to have lower RPM scores than participants with unrelated parents. One major finding of this study is that polygamous family marital structures tended not to have deleterious effects on the Bedouin Arab adolescents' RPM test scores.}, }
@article {pmid12614689, year = {2003}, author = {Degroot, A and Treit, D}, title = {Septal GABAergic and hippocampal cholinergic systems interact in the modulation of anxiety.}, journal = {Neuroscience}, volume = {117}, number = {2}, pages = {493-501}, doi = {10.1016/s0306-4522(02)00651-6}, pmid = {12614689}, issn = {0306-4522}, mesh = {Animals ; Anxiety/drug therapy/*metabolism ; Cholinergic Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Cholinergic Fibers/drug effects/*physiology ; Hippocampus/drug effects/*physiology ; Male ; Rats ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; Septum of Brain/drug effects/*physiology ; }, abstract = {According to Gray [(1982) The neuropsychology of anxiety: an enquiry into the function of the septo-hippocampal system. Oxford: Oxford University Press; (1991) Neural systems, emotion and personality. In: Neurobiology of learning, emotion, and affect (Madden J, ed), pp 273-306. New York: Raven Press; Gray JA, McNaughton N (2000) The neuropsychology of anxiety. Oxford: Oxford University Press], the septum and the hippocampus act in concert to control anxiety. In the present study we examined a possible interaction between septal GABAergic and hippocampal cholinergic systems in the shock-probe burying test, an animal model of anxiety. In experiment 1, we found that a 10-ng infusion of muscimol in the medial septum produced a significant suppression of burying behavior, whereas lower doses (2.5 and 5.0 ng) did not. In experiment 2, we found a significant suppression of burying behavior after a 20-microg infusion of physostigmine into the dorsal hippocampus, but not after lower-dose infusions (5 and 10 microg). In experiment 3, we infused combined sub-effective doses of physostigmine and muscimol in the hippocampus and medial septum respectively. The combination of sub-effective doses of physostigmine (5 microg) and muscimol (2.5 ng) significantly reduced burying of the shock probe. The results indicate that the hippocampal cholinergic and septal GABAergic systems act synergistically in the modulation of anxiety.}, }
@article {pmid12614572, year = {2003}, author = {Soler, JJ and de Neve, L and Pérez-Contreras, T and Soler, M and Sorci, G}, title = {Trade-off between immunocompetence and growth in magpies: an experimental study.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {270}, number = {1512}, pages = {241-248}, pmid = {12614572}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Body Weight ; Lymphocytes/parasitology ; Methionine/metabolism ; Parasitemia/immunology/metabolism ; Phytohemagglutinins/immunology/metabolism ; Protozoan Infections, Animal/immunology/metabolism ; Random Allocation ; Songbirds/*growth &amp; development/*immunology/metabolism ; Spain ; }, abstract = {A trade-off between immunity and growth has repeatedly been suggested, mainly based on laboratory and poultry science, but also from experiments where parasitism intensity was manipulated in field bird populations. However, as resource allocation to different activities (or organs) during growth is difficult to manipulate, this trade-off has only been experimentally tested by studying the effects of non-pathogenic antigens. By providing some nestling magpies (Pica pica) with methionine, a sulphur amino acid that specifically enhances T-cell immune response in chickens, we investigated this trade-off by directly affecting allocation of limited resources during growth. Results were in accordance with the hypothetical trade-off because nestlings fed with methionine showed a lower growth rate during the four days of methionine administration, but a larger response when fledglings were challenged with phytohaemagglutinin (a measure of the intensity of T-lymphocyte-mediated immune responsiveness) than control nestlings. Surprisingly, we found that control and experimental nestlings fledged with similar body mass, size and condition, but experimental nestlings suffered less from blood parasites (Haemoproteus) and had fewer lymphocytes (a widely used measure of health status) than control nestlings, suggesting a negative effect of blood parasites or other pathogens on nestling growth.}, }
@article {pmid12592404, year = {2003}, author = {Gray, JR and Chabris, CF and Braver, TS}, title = {Neural mechanisms of general fluid intelligence.}, journal = {Nature neuroscience}, volume = {6}, number = {3}, pages = {316-322}, doi = {10.1038/nn1014}, pmid = {12592404}, issn = {1097-6256}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Attention/physiology ; Brain/*physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Choice Behavior ; Cognition/physiology ; Conflict, Psychological ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; Multivariate Analysis ; Parietal Lobe/physiology ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Prefrontal Cortex/physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Reference Values ; Regression Analysis ; Verbal Behavior/physiology ; }, abstract = {We used an individual-differences approach to test whether general fluid intelligence (gF) is mediated by brain regions that support attentional (executive) control, including subregions of the prefrontal cortex. Forty-eight participants first completed a standard measure of gF (Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices). They then performed verbal and nonverbal versions of a challenging working-memory task (three-back) while their brain activity was measured using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Trials within the three-back task varied greatly in the demand for attentional control because of differences in trial-to-trial interference. On high-interference trials specifically, participants with higher gF were more accurate and had greater event-related neural activity in several brain regions. Multiple regression analyses indicated that lateral prefrontal and parietal regions may mediate the relation between ability (gF) and performance (accuracy despite interference), providing constraints on the neural mechanisms that support gF.}, }
@article {pmid12584078, year = {2002}, author = {Hiscock, M and Inch, R and Gleason, A}, title = {Raven's progressive matrices performance in adults with traumatic brain injury.}, journal = {Applied neuropsychology}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {129-138}, doi = {10.1207/S15324826AN0903_1}, pmid = {12584078}, issn = {0908-4282}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Brain Injuries/*complications/psychology ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/*standards ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sampling Studies ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM), a widely used test of reasoning, is sensitive to aging, but it has not proven to be helpful in the assessment of acquired focal or lateralized brain damage. Clinical experience suggests that the test is insensitive to traumatic brain injury (TBI), but the data are difficult to interpret because of rapid inflation of norms over time (the Flynn effect). In examining data from 64 adult patients with TBI who were administered the Standard RPM between 1981 and 1989, we used previous and subsequent norms conjointly to adjust for the Flynn effect. Anterograde and retrograde adjustment of norms led to highly convergent results. After adjustment for the Flynn effect, RPM performance was comparable to Wechsler IQ, significantly below estimated premorbid IQ, and nearly 2 SD above performance on 2 TBI-sensitive neuropsychological tests. We conclude that RPM performance is neither more nor less sensitive than Wechsler IQ to the consequences of TBI in the adult, but erroneous conclusions are likely to be reached if the Flynn effect is not taken into account.}, }
@article {pmid12569968, year = {2002}, author = {Glogau, RG}, title = {Review of the use of botulinum toxin for hyperhidrosis and cosmetic purposes.}, journal = {The Clinical journal of pain}, volume = {18}, number = {6 Suppl}, pages = {S191-7}, doi = {10.1097/00002508-200211001-00012}, pmid = {12569968}, issn = {0749-8047}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins/administration &amp; dosage/classification/*therapeutic use ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Cosmetics/administration &amp; dosage/therapeutic use ; Dermatology/methods ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Face ; Facial Muscles/*drug effects ; Humans ; Hyperhidrosis/*drug therapy ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Injections, Subcutaneous ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {This article reviews the current status of dermatological uses for botulinum toxin type A (Botox), recently approved in the United States for treatment of glabellar wrinkles, and type B (Myobloc), approved for cervical dystonia. The respective formulations of Botox and Myobloc are described, and injection techniques and special considerations for administration in the treatment of dermatologic conditions are also discussed. The use of botulinum toxin injections for cosmetic treatment of movement-related facial lines and platysmal bands in the neck is reviewed, including injection procedures, efficacy, and potential complications. Recent developments in the use of botulinum toxins for the treatment of palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis are also described, comparing type A and type B results. Although direct comparisons between botulinum toxins for dermatologic applications are complicated by the lack of functional equivalence of the standard potency assays, appropriate dosing strategies for obtaining satisfactory clinical results using type B are being established, which will add to the experience already gained with type A. The diffusion characteristics of type B appear to show different and potentially advantageous clinical profiles in the treatment of crows' feet and hyperhidrosis compared with type A.}, }
@article {pmid12561130, year = {2003}, author = {Clayton, NS and Yu, KS and Dickinson, A}, title = {Interacting Cache memories: evidence for flexible memory use by Western Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma californica).}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Animal behavior processes}, volume = {29}, number = {1}, pages = {14-22}, pmid = {12561130}, issn = {0097-7403}, support = {NS35465-03/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Appetitive Behavior ; Association Learning ; *Discrimination Learning ; Feeding Behavior ; *Food Preferences ; *Retention, Psychology ; Songbirds/*physiology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {When Western Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma californica) cached and recovered perishable crickets, N. S. Clayton, K. S. Yu, and A. Dickinson (2001) reported that the jays rapidly learned to search for fresh crickets after a 1-day retention interval (RI) between caching and recovery but to avoid searching for perished crickets after a 4-day RI. In the present experiments, the jays generalized their search preference for crickets to intermediate RIs and used novel information about the rate of decay of crickets presented during the RI to reverse these search preferences at recovery. The authors interpret this reversal as evidence that the birds can integrate information about the caching episode with new information presented during the RI.}, }
@article {pmid12549800, year = {2002}, author = {Benjasuwantep, B and Ruangdaraganon, N and Visudhiphan, P}, title = {Prevalence and clinical characteristics of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder among primary school students in Bangkok.}, journal = {Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand = Chotmaihet thangphaet}, volume = {85 Suppl 4}, number = {}, pages = {S1232-40}, pmid = {12549800}, issn = {0125-2208}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Prevalence ; Schools/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Students/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Thailand/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is an important disorder because it is the most prevalent chronic health condition affecting school aged children. Children with ADHD are at risk for academic and behavior problems. There are several studies in many countries worldwide. In Thailand, there have been a few published papers about ADHD. Most of them were studies in a clinically referred population. Four hundred and thirty-three first to sixth grade students from Wat Samiennaree School were included in this study. All children were administered Raven's progressive matrices test for estimation of intellectual functioning and were observed for their behavior in the classrooms by one researcher. Their demographic data was collected by questionnaires. The revised Conners rating scales were scored for each student. Students whose parents did not score the Conners parent rating scale were excluded. The parents of students, whose scores were positive for ADHD, were interviewed according to DSM IV criteria. 353 (81.5%) students from 433 were enrolled in this study. 23 students were diagnosed with ADHD making a prevalence of 6.5 per cent. There were 11 boys and 12 girls. The ratio of male to female was 1:1.09. The ADHD students had lower scores in mathematics than the group without this diagnosis with statistical significance (p = 0.006).}, }
@article {pmid12549782, year = {2002}, author = {Roongpraiwan, R and Ruangdaraganon, N and Visudhiphan, P and Santikul, K}, title = {Prevalence and clinical characteristics of dyslexia in primary school students.}, journal = {Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand = Chotmaihet thangphaet}, volume = {85 Suppl 4}, number = {}, pages = {S1097-103}, pmid = {12549782}, issn = {0125-2208}, mesh = {Child ; Dyslexia/complications/*diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Prevalence ; Schools/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Thailand/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Dyslexia is the most common subtype of learning disabilities with a prevalence ranging from 5-10 per cent. The central difficulty in dyslexia is the phonological awareness deficit. The authors have developed a screening test to assess the reading ability of Thai primary school students.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: 1. To study the prevalence of dyslexia in first to sixth grade students at Wat Samiannaree School. 2. To study the clinical characteristics such as sex, neurological signs, verbal intelligence and comorbid attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) of the dyslexia group.<br><br>METHOD: A total of 486 first to sixth grade students were administered "Raven's progressive matrices test" for estimation of intellectual functioning. Those who scored below the fifth percentile were labeled as mental retardation and excluded from the study. The students' reading ability was evaluated by 3 steps; first by classroom teachers using some items of the screening test, second by the researchers examining some more items individually, and third by the special educator assessing more details in reading and phonology. The students who had a reading ability two-grade levels below their actual grades and impairment in phonology were diagnosed with dyslexia.<br><br>RESULTS: The prevalence of dyslexia and probable dyslexia were found to be 6.3 per cent and 12.6 per cent, respectively. The male to female ratio of dyslexia was 3.4:1. The dyslexia group had significantly lower Thai language scores than those of the normal group (p < 0.05). All of the dyslexia group had a normal grossly neurological examination but 90 per cent showed positive soft neurological signs. Mean verbal intellectual quotient score in the dyslexia group assessed by using Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children--Revised was 76 +/- 7. The comorbid ADHD was 8.7 per cent in the dyslexia group.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Dyslexia was a common problem among primary school students in this study. Further studies in a larger population and different socioeconomic statuses are required to determine the prevalence of dyslexia in the general population. The authors suggest evaluating the reading ability carefully by using a test that can detect phonological awareness deficit in all children who have learning problems.}, }
@article {pmid12542184, year = {2002}, author = {Sardelis, MR and Turell, MJ and O'Guinn, ML and Andre, RG and Roberts, DR}, title = {Vector competence of three North American strains of Aedes albopictus for West Nile virus.}, journal = {Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association}, volume = {18}, number = {4}, pages = {284-289}, pmid = {12542184}, issn = {8756-971X}, mesh = {Aedes/*virology ; Animals ; Chickens/virology ; Hawaii ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; Maryland ; Texas ; West Nile Fever/transmission ; West Nile virus/*physiology ; }, abstract = {To evaluate the potential for North American (NA) Aedes albopictus to transmit West Nile virus (WN), mosquito strains derived from 3 NA sources (Frederick County, Maryland, FRED strain; Cheverly, MD, CHEV strain; Chambers and Liberty counties, Texas, TAMU strain) were tested. These strains were tested along with a previously tested strain from a Hawaiian source (OAHU strain). Mosquitoes were fed on 2- to 3-day-old chickens previously inoculated with a New York strain (Crow 397-99) of WN. All of the NA strains were competent laboratory vectors of WN, with transmission rates of 36, 50, 83, and 92% for the FRED, CHEV, OAHU, and TAMU strains, respectively. The extrinsic incubation period for WN in Ae. albopictus held at 26 degrees C was estimated to be 10 days. Based on efficiency of viral transmission, evidence of natural infection, bionomics, and distribution, Ae. albopictus could be an important bridge vector of WN in the southeastern USA.}, }
@article {pmid12541656, year = {2001}, author = {Lao, BS and Sheng, GY and Fu, JM and Wen, KW and Zhang, G and Min, YS}, title = {[A study on the contents of fat and fatty acids in five shellfishes].}, journal = {Se pu = Chinese journal of chromatography}, volume = {19}, number = {2}, pages = {137-140}, pmid = {12541656}, issn = {1000-8713}, mesh = {Animals ; Dietary Fats/*analysis ; Eicosapentaenoic Acid/*analogs &amp; derivatives/analysis ; Fatty Acids/*analysis ; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry ; Pyrones/analysis ; Shellfish/*analysis ; }, abstract = {The contents of fat and fatty acids in Callista erycina (Linnaeus), Paphia (Paratapes) undulata (Born), Meretrix meretrix (Linnaeus), Chlamys farreri (Jones et Preston) and Patinopecten yessoensis (Jay) were studied. Fat was extracted with Bligh &amp; Dyer (B&amp;D) method. The lipid classes were transesterified with potassium hydroxide in methanol. Fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) were assayed with GC-MS and polar capillary column (HP-INNOWax 30 m x 0.25 mm i.d. x 0.25 micron). GC injector temperature was 220 degrees C. The column temperature was programmed from 150 degrees C (1 min) to 200 degrees C at 10 degrees C/min and then from 200 degrees C to 250 degrees C at 2 degrees C/min. FAMEs were identified by MS library, and part by their standards. Total identified fatty acids were over 99% for all samples. Fat contents of them were all over 1% by wet samples. And ratios between omega-3PUFA and omega-6PUFA were above 2 by and large. Patinopecten yessoensis (Jay) contains more fat and the valuable fatty acids, EPA and DHA. It is suitable to use it as the source of EPA and DHA.}, }
@article {pmid12540899, year = {2003}, author = {Tobalske, BW and Hedrick, TL and Dial, KP and Biewener, AA}, title = {Comparative power curves in bird flight.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {421}, number = {6921}, pages = {363-366}, doi = {10.1038/nature01284}, pmid = {12540899}, issn = {0028-0836}, mesh = {Animals ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Birds/*physiology ; Bone and Bones/physiology ; Columbidae/physiology ; Flight, Animal/*physiology ; *Models, Biological ; Muscle, Skeletal/physiology ; Psittaciformes/physiology ; Wings, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The relationship between mechanical power output and forward velocity in bird flight is controversial, bearing on the comparative physiology and ecology of locomotion. Applied to flying birds, aerodynamic theory predicts that mechanical power should vary as a function of forward velocity in a U-shaped curve. The only empirical test of this theory, using the black-billed magpie (Pica pica), suggests that the mechanical power curve is relatively flat over intermediate velocities. Here, by integrating in vivo measurements of pectoralis force and length change with quasi-steady aerodynamic models developed using data on wing and body movement, we present mechanical power curves for cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) and ringed turtle-doves (Streptopelia risoria). In contrast to the curve reported for magpies, the power curve for cockatiels is acutely concave, whereas that for doves is intermediate in shape and shows higher mass-specific power output at most speeds. We also find that wing-beat frequency and mechanical power output do not necessarily share minima in flying birds. Thus, aspects of morphology, wing kinematics and overall style of flight can greatly affect the magnitude and shape of a species' power curve.}, }
@article {pmid12539930, year = {2002}, author = {Jones, JE and Antoniadis, E and Shettleworth, SJ and Kamil, AC}, title = {A comparative study of geometric rule learning by nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana), pigeons (Columba livia), and jackdaws (Corvus monedula).}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {116}, number = {4}, pages = {350-356}, doi = {10.1037/0735-7036.116.4.350}, pmid = {12539930}, issn = {0735-7036}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Birds ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Learning/*physiology ; *Mathematics ; Random Allocation ; Spatial Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Three avian species, a seed-caching corvid (Clark's nutcrackers; Nucifraga columbiana), a non-seed-caching corvid (jackdaws; Corvus monedula), and a non-seed-caching columbid (pigeons; Columba livia), were tested for ability to learn to find a goal halfway between 2 landmarks when distance between the landmarks varied during training. All 3 species learned, but jackdaws took much longer than either pigeons or nutcrackers. The nutcrackers searched more accurately than either pigeons or jackdaws. Both nutcrackers and pigeons showed good transfer to novel landmark arrays in which interlandmark distances were novel, but inconclusive results were obtained from jackdaws. Species differences in this spatial task appear quantitative rather than qualitative and are associated with differences in natural history rather than phylogeny.}, }
@article {pmid12537154, year = {2003}, author = {Colom, R and García-López, O}, title = {Secular gains in fluid intelligence: evidence from the Culture-Fair intelligence test.}, journal = {Journal of biosocial science}, volume = {35}, number = {1}, pages = {33-39}, pmid = {12537154}, issn = {0021-9320}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Cohort Studies ; Educational Status ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Spain ; }, abstract = {There is no doubt about the reality of the secular increase in cognitive test scores. However, there is disagreement about a key issue: does the observed increase reflect a genuine upward trend in intelligence? Evidence from the Raven test is clear, although there are some doubts about its adequacy as a fine-grained measure of fluid intelligence. Evidence from the so-called 'method of correlated vectors' is much less clear. When a crystallized battery is considered, the results leave little doubt: the increase does not reflect gains in general intelligence. However, when a fluid battery is analysed, the increase does reflect gains in general intelligence. The present study uses one of the best available measures of fluid intelligence (the Culture-Fair intelligence test) to provide new evidence for the secular increase in fluid intelligence, beyond the findings from the Raven test and the method of correlated vectors. A total of 4498 Spanish high school students and high school graduates were tested within a time interval of 20 and 23 years, respectively. The results show that there is a clear upward trend in intelligence. Moreover, students show an average increase equivalent to 6 IQ points, while graduates show an average increase of 4 IQ points. Therefore, more selected people (graduates) show a smaller increase than less selected people (students). Some implications are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid12533100, year = {2003}, author = {Greenberg, SA}, title = {The history of dermatome mapping.}, journal = {Archives of neurology}, volume = {60}, number = {1}, pages = {126-131}, doi = {10.1001/archneur.60.1.126}, pmid = {12533100}, issn = {0003-9942}, mesh = {Animals ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Neurology/*history ; Skin/*innervation ; Spinal Cord/physiology ; }, abstract = {Dermatome maps are commonly used in clinical neurology. These maps are valuable for the localization of varied sensory phenomena in patients with neurological disorders. The methods used in the construction of the classic maps by Sir Henry Head, Sir Charles Sherrington, Otfrid Foerster, and Jay Keegan and Frederic Garrett are of historical interest and are relevant to the current understanding of dermatome anatomy and physiology. In particular, the work of Derek Denny-Brown and his colleagues demonstrates that patterns of dermatomal sensory loss depend on the anatomical and physiological characteristics of large regions of nervous tissue, multiple adjacent dorsal ganglia, and the nearby caudal and rostral spinal cord.}, }
@article {pmid12530710, year = {2002}, author = {Brown, RD and Cothern, CM}, title = {Individual differences in faking integrity tests.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {91}, number = {3 Pt 1}, pages = {691-702}, doi = {10.2466/pr0.2002.91.3.691}, pmid = {12530710}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {Adult ; *Attitude ; *Deception ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Personality Inventory/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Personnel Loyalty ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; Students/psychology ; Theft/*psychology ; }, abstract = {The present study assessed whether success at faking a commercially available integrity test relates to individual differences among the test takers. We administered the Reid Report, an overt integrity test, twice to a sample of college students with instructions to answer honestly on one administration and "fake good" on the other. These participants also completed a measure of general cognitive ability, the Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices. Integrity test scores were 1.3 standard deviations higher in the faking condition (p<.05). There was a weak, but significant, positive relation between general cognitive ability and faking success, calculated as the difference in scores between the honest and faked administrations of the Reid Report (r=.17, p<.05). An examination of the correlations between faking success and general cognitive ability by item type suggested that the relation is due to the items that pose hypothetical scenarios, e.g., "Should an employee be fired for stealing a few office supplies?" (r=.22, p<.05) and not the items that ask for admissions of undesirable past behaviors. e.g., "Have you ever stolen office supplies?" (r=.02, p>.05: t=2.06, p<.05) for the difference between correlations. These results suggest that general cognitive ability is indeed an individual difference relevant to success at faking an overt integrity test.}, }
@article {pmid12530279, year = {2002}, author = {Rahman, A and Maqbool, E and Zuberi, HS}, title = {Lead-associated deficits in stature, mental ability and behaviour in children in Karachi.}, journal = {Annals of tropical paediatrics}, volume = {22}, number = {4}, pages = {301-311}, doi = {10.1179/027249302125001958}, pmid = {12530279}, issn = {0272-4936}, mesh = {Age Distribution ; Body Height/*drug effects ; Body Weight ; Child ; Child Behavior/*drug effects ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Educational Status ; Environmental Exposure/*adverse effects ; Female ; Head/anatomy &amp; histology ; Hemoglobins/analysis ; Humans ; Intelligence/*drug effects ; Lead/*adverse effects/analysis/blood ; Male ; Pakistan ; Regression Analysis ; Sex Distribution ; Tooth/metabolism ; }, abstract = {This study was conducted to evaluate the cumulative and steady-state lead burden in children from Karachi, an area of high lead exposure, and to assess the degree of damage to physical growth and mental ability related to lead exposure. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in seven primary schools from around Karachi. Shed primary teeth and blood samples were collected from students of grades I to III (age range 6-10 years) and were analysed for lead by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Haemoglobin concentration, height, weight and head circumference were measured. IQ was estimated using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. Classroom behaviour was rated by teachers and school performance was estimated from the percentage mark in a school examination taken just before the date of the IQ test. Complete data were available for 138 children. Over 80% of children had lead levels above the safety limit set by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The blood lead levels in boys did not differ significantly from that in girls. Significant differences were observed between the schools. Univariate analysis showed negative association of blood lead with haemoglobin, IQ and height. Tooth lead was negatively associated with height, classroom behaviour and performance. When adjusted for other confounding variables, blood lead was negatively associated with haemoglobin and IQ, whereas tooth lead was negatively associated only with classroom behaviour. Height was negatively associated with blood or tooth lead. These results were further supported when the upper and lower quintiles for blood or tooth lead were compared. Tooth lead level was not a better marker of lead poisoning than blood lead level in our study population. These data demonstrate the association of increased lead with impaired learning and adverse behaviour in Karachi children and call for strict government regulations to limit environmental lead burden.}, }
@article {pmid12530151, year = {2002}, author = {Kurbatov, AV and Vologodskaia, IA and Grigor'eva, ES}, title = {[Genetic-epidemiologic study of reproductive outcomes in the Ozersk population, located in "Maiak" control area].}, journal = {Radiatsionnaia biologiia, radioecologiia}, volume = {42}, number = {6}, pages = {687-689}, pmid = {12530151}, issn = {0869-8031}, mesh = {Cohort Studies ; *Environmental Exposure ; Female ; Fertility/genetics/*radiation effects ; Humans ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Rate ; Russia/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {In the population of Ozyorsk town situated in the control area of the nuclear enterprise (Production Association "Mayak") the number of pregnancies and its outcomes was studied in cohort of 2.258 women of completed fertility. The mean number of pregnancies per woman is 5.6 +/- 0.07. The mean size of family is 1.9 +/- 0.02. It was estimated that 2.7% of women had no pregnancies, 4.0% of women had no delivery till the end of their reproductive performance. 4.65% of women contributed nothing to the genofond of the next generation, i.e., they had not any children lived till their reproductive performance (20 years). The Crow Index of Opportunity for Selection and its components connected with differential fertility and differential mortality were estimated. In the population under study tow components of selection--selection at the prenatal stages (72.6%) and selection associated with infertility--are shown to be significant.}, }
@article {pmid12522961, year = {2002}, author = {L'vov, DK and Dzharkenov, AF and L'vov, DN and Aristova, VA and Kovtunov, AI and Gromashevskiĭ, VL and Vyshemirskiĭ, OI and Galkina, IV and Al'khovskiĭ, SV and Samokhvalov, EI and Prilipov, AG and Deriabin, PG and Odolevskiĭ, EI and Ibragimov, RM}, title = {[Isolation of the West Nile fever virus from the great cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo, the crow Corvus corone, and Hyalomma marginatum ticks associated with them in natural and synanthroic biocenosis in the Volga delta (Astrakhan region, 2001)].}, journal = {Voprosy virusologii}, volume = {47}, number = {5}, pages = {7-12}, pmid = {12522961}, issn = {0507-4088}, mesh = {Animals ; Antigens, Viral/analysis ; Birds/parasitology/*virology ; Hemagglutination Tests ; Immunoenzyme Techniques ; Neutralization Tests ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Russia ; Species Specificity ; Ticks/*virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Four strains identified as West Nile fever virus by inhibited hemagglutination and neutralization tests, enzyme immunoassay, and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction were isolated during a virological examination of birds and their collected ticks in the natural and synanthropic biocenoses of the Volga delta. The strains were isolated from the great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo), the crow (Corvus corone) and its collected Hyalomma marginatum nymphs. The types of interpopulational relations in the ecological system wild-birds-virus-mosquitoes-synanthroic birds-ticks are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid12519968, year = {2003}, author = {Safran, M and Chalifa-Caspi, V and Shmueli, O and Olender, T and Lapidot, M and Rosen, N and Shmoish, M and Peter, Y and Glusman, G and Feldmesser, E and Adato, A and Peter, I and Khen, M and Atarot, T and Groner, Y and Lancet, D}, title = {Human Gene-Centric Databases at the Weizmann Institute of Science: GeneCards, UDB, CroW 21 and HORDE.}, journal = {Nucleic acids research}, volume = {31}, number = {1}, pages = {142-146}, pmid = {12519968}, issn = {1362-4962}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Chromosome Mapping ; *Chromosomes, Human, Pair 21 ; *Databases, Genetic ; Gene Expression Profiling ; *Genome, Human ; Humans ; Israel ; Receptors, Odorant/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Recent enhancements and current research in the GeneCards (GC) (http://bioinfo.weizmann.ac.il/cards/) project are described, including the addition of gene expression profiles and integrated gene locations. Also highlighted are the contributions of specialized associated human gene-centric databases developed at the Weizmann Institute. These include the Unified Database (UDB) (http://bioinfo.weizmann.ac.il/udb) for human genome mapping, the human Chromosome 21 database at the Weizmann Insti-tute (CroW 21) (http://bioinfo.weizmann.ac.il/crow21), and the Human Olfactory Receptor Data Explora-torium (HORDE) (http://bioinfo.weizmann.ac.il/HORDE). The synergistic relationships amongst these efforts have positively impacted the quality, quantity and usefulness of the GeneCards gene compendium.}, }
@article {pmid12512511, year = {2003}, author = {Parekh, V}, title = {Smart crows win out.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {299}, number = {5603}, pages = {45}, doi = {10.1126/science.299.5603.45}, pmid = {12512511}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Cognition ; *Problem Solving ; *Songbirds ; }, }
@article {pmid12503565, year = {2002}, author = {Shermer, MB}, title = {This view of science: Stephen Jay Gould as historian of science and scientific historian, popular scientist and scientific popularizer.}, journal = {Social studies of science}, volume = {32}, number = {4}, pages = {489-524}, doi = {10.1177/0306312702032004001}, pmid = {12503565}, issn = {0306-3127}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; *Historiography ; History, 20th Century ; Periodicals as Topic/*history ; Philosophy, Medical/*history ; *Public Opinion ; Science/*history ; United States ; }, abstract = {Science historian Ronald Numbers once remarked that the two most influential historians of science of the 20th century were Thomas Kuhn and Stephen Jay Gould. All historians are deeply familiar with Kuhn's work and influence, and most know of the remarkable impact Gould has had on evolutionary theory through both his professional and popular works. But little attention has been paid to the depth, scope, and importance of Gould's rôle as historian and philosopher of science, and his use of popular science exposition to reinforce old knowledge and generate new. This paper presents the results of an extensive quantitative content analysis of Gould's 22 books, 101 book reviews, 479 scientific papers, and 300 Natural History essays, in terms of their subject matter (Evolutionary Theory, History and Philosophy of Science, Natural History, Paleontology/Geology, Social Science/Commentary), and thematic dichotomies (Theory-Data, Time's Arrow-Time's Cycle, Adaptationism- Nonadaptationalism, Punctuationism-Gradualism, Contingency-Necessity). Special emphasis is placed on the interaction between the subjects and themata, how Gould has used the history of science to reinforce his evolutionary theory (and vice versa), and how his philosophy of science has influenced both his evolutionary theory and his historiography. That philosophy can best be summed up in a quotation from Charles Darwin, frequently cited by Gould: 'All observation must be for or against some view if it is to be of any service'. Gould followed Darwin's advice throughout his career, including his extensive writings on the history and philosophy of science.}, }
@article {pmid12500864, year = {2002}, author = {Ackerman, PL and Beier, ME and Boyle, MO}, title = {Individual differences in working memory within a nomological network of cognitive and perceptual speed abilities.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. General}, volume = {131}, number = {4}, pages = {567-589}, pmid = {12500864}, issn = {0096-3445}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Female ; Humans ; *Individuality ; *Intelligence ; Male ; *Mental Recall ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Orientation ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Problem Solving ; *Reaction Time ; Retention, Psychology ; Speech Perception ; Verbal Learning ; Vocabulary ; }, abstract = {It has become fashionable to equate constructs of working memory (WM) and general intelligence (g). Few investigations have provided direct evidence that WM and g measures yield similar ordering of individuals. Correlational investigations have yielded mixed results. The authors assess the construct space for WM and g and demonstrate that WM shares substantial variance with perceptual speed (PS) constructs. Thirty-six ability tests representing verbal, numerical, spatial, and PS abilities; the Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices; and 7 WM tests were administered to 135 adults. A nomological representation for WM is provided through a series of cognitive and PS ability models. Construct overlap between PS and WM is further investigated with attention to complexity, processing differences, and practice effects.}, }
@article {pmid12497611, year = {2003}, author = {Weiser, M and Noy, S and Kaplan, Z and Reichenberg, A and Yazvitsky, R and Nahon, D and Grotto, I and Knobler, HY}, title = {Generalized cognitive impairment in male adolescents with schizotypal personality disorder.}, journal = {American journal of medical genetics. Part B, Neuropsychiatric genetics : the official publication of the International Society of Psychiatric Genetics}, volume = {116B}, number = {1}, pages = {36-40}, doi = {10.1002/ajmg.b.10853}, pmid = {12497611}, issn = {1552-4841}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Analysis of Variance ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Mass Screening ; Schizophrenia/diagnosis ; Schizotypal Personality Disorder/*diagnosis ; }, abstract = {Schizotypal Personality Disorder (SPD) shares common genetic and biological substrates with schizophrenia, and patients with SPD have been reported to suffer both from specific cognitive impairments, and from a generalized cognitive dysfunction, similar to those found in schizophrenia. The aim of this cross-sectional, population-based study was to assess general cognitive functioning in adolescents with SPD. The Israeli Draft Board systematically assesses cognitive functioning and administers psychiatric screening in all 16-17-year-old males in the population. Of 341,511 males assessed, the cognitive test scores of adolescents with SPD (N = 326) were retrieved, and compared to the scores of adolescents diagnosed as suffering from schizophrenia (N = 901), and adolescents with no neurological or psychiatric diagnosis (controls, N = 293,820). Male adolescents with SPD or with schizophrenia scored lower on all measures compared to healthy individuals (effect sizes ranging from 0.6-0.88, all P < 0.001). The SPD patients scored significantly higher than the schizophrenia patients on the sub-tests of similarities and Ravens Progressive Matrices, tests that reflect abstract reasoning. On the sub-tests of arithmetic and instruction comprehension, tests that rely on concentration, SPD and schizophrenia patients' scores did not differ significantly from each other. These results might be interpreted to imply that a generalized cognitive impairment, in the presence of schizotypal personality traits and in the absence of psychosis, might be conceptualized as being the core of the schizotaxia syndrome. The greater impairment in abstract reasoning in the schizophrenia patients might be correlated with the psychotic symptoms that differentiate schizophrenia from SPD.}, }
@article {pmid12486275, year = {2003}, author = {Starr, JM and Leaper, SA and Murray, AD and Lemmon, HA and Staff, RT and Deary, IJ and Whalley, LJ}, title = {Brain white matter lesions detected by magnetic resonance [correction of resosnance] imaging are associated with balance and gait speed.}, journal = {Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry}, volume = {74}, number = {1}, pages = {94-98}, pmid = {12486275}, issn = {0022-3050}, mesh = {Aged ; Brain/pathology/physiopathology ; Brain Diseases/*diagnosis/epidemiology/*physiopathology ; Brain Stem/pathology/physiopathology ; Cohort Studies ; Comorbidity ; Depression/diagnosis/epidemiology/physiopathology ; Female ; Gait ; Gait Disorders, Neurologic/*diagnosis/epidemiology/*physiopathology ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Longitudinal Studies ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Multivariate Analysis ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Postural Balance ; Scotland/epidemiology ; Visual Acuity ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relations between premorbid and current mental ability, mood, and white matter signal abnormalities detected by T2 weighted brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and impairment of balance and mobility in older adults.<br><br>METHODS: 97 subjects from the Aberdeen 1921 birth cohort underwent brain MRI, evaluation of balance, and measurement of gait speed. White matter hyperintensities detected on T2 weighted MRI scans were rated by three independent raters on three variables: white matter lesions; periventricular lesions; and brain stem lesions.<br><br>RESULTS: Decreased gait speed was correlated with impaired visual acuity (p = 0.020), shorter stature (p = 0.008), a lower childhood IQ (p = 0.030), a lower current Raven's progressive matrices score (Raven score) (p < 0.001), a higher hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) score (p = 0.004), and an increased grade of brain stem lesions on MRI. Inability to balance was correlated with Raven score (p = 0.042), brain stem lesions (p = 0.003), white matter lesions (p = 0.003), and periventricular lesions (p = 0.038). Binary logistic regression identified brain stem lesions (odds ratio (OR) 0.22; 95% confidence interval 0.09 to 0.54) and HADS depression score (OR 0.75; 0.58 to 0.97) as the only significant associations with balance. Structural equation modelling detected an association between two latent traits representing white matter disease and an integrating function, respectively.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In this cohort, white matter lesions, periventricular lesions, and brain stem lesions were associated with impaired balance. Current mental ability was strongly related to gait speed. There appears to be a concordance between motor skills and intellect in old age, which is degraded by white matter disease.}, }
@article {pmid12481142, year = {2002}, author = {Stephens, DW and McLinn, CM and Stevens, JR}, title = {Discounting and reciprocity in an Iterated Prisoner's Dilemma.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {298}, number = {5601}, pages = {2216-2218}, doi = {10.1126/science.1078498}, pmid = {12481142}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Cooperative Behavior ; *Feeding Behavior ; Food ; *Game Theory ; Random Allocation ; *Songbirds ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {The Iterated Prisoner's Dilemma (IPD) is a central paradigm in the study of animal cooperation. According to the IPD framework, repeated play (repetition) and reciprocity combine to maintain a cooperative equilibrium. However, experimental studies with animals suggest that cooperative behavior in IPDs is unstable, and some have suggested that strong preferences for immediate benefits (that is, temporal discounting) might explain the fragility of cooperative equilibria. We studied the effects of discounting and strategic reciprocity on cooperation in captive blue jays. Our results demonstrate an interaction between discounting and reciprocity. Blue jays show high stable levels of cooperation in treatments with reduced discounting when their opponent reciprocates, but their levels of cooperation decline in all other treatment combinations. This suggests that stable cooperation requires both reduced discounting and reciprocity, and it offers an explanation of earlier failures to find cooperation in controlled payoff games.}, }
@article {pmid12478010, year = {2002}, author = {Voynov, G and Kaufman, S and Hong, T and Pinkerton, A and Simon, R and Dowsett, R}, title = {Treatment of recurrent malignant gliomas with stereotactic intensity modulated radiation therapy.}, journal = {American journal of clinical oncology}, volume = {25}, number = {6}, pages = {606-611}, doi = {10.1097/00000421-200212000-00017}, pmid = {12478010}, issn = {0277-3732}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Central Nervous System Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Cranial Irradiation/*methods ; Dexamethasone/therapeutic use ; Female ; Glioma/*radiotherapy ; Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/*radiotherapy ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Retrospective Studies ; Salvage Therapy ; *Stereotaxic Techniques ; Survival Analysis ; }, abstract = {Malignant gliomas are usually refractory to aggressive combined-modality therapy, and the incidence of recurrence and death after treatment is very high. State-of-the-art techniques such as stereotactic intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) are now available to deliver a high dose of radiation to the tumor with relative preservation of surrounding tissues to achieve optimal tumor coverage with minimal toxicity. We report 10 patients (median age 48 years) with recurrent malignant gliomas that were treated with stereotactic directed IMRT. Initial tumor histologies included one low grade glioma (upgraded to anaplastic astrocytoma at recurrence), four anaplastic astrocytomas, and four glioblastomas multiforme. One patient was originally presumed to have a brain metastasis secondary to renal cell carcinoma but was pathologically confirmed as having glioblastoma multiforme at the time of recurrence. Before recurrence, all patients had been treated with external beam radiation therapy (median 59.7 Gy). All recurrences were confirmed by a subtotal resection (5/10) or by imaging (5/10). The median Karnofsky performance score at the time of IMRT was 80. The median tumor volume was 34.69 cm. Treatment was delivered on a 10-MV linear accelerator with a mini-multileaf collimator, MIMiC, and planned with Peacock/Corvus software. Radiation was delivered in daily fractions of 5 Gy, to a total median dose of 30 Gy at the 71% to 93% median isodose line. Median overall survival time was 10.1 months from the date of stereotactic treatment, with 1- and 2-year survival rates of 50% and 33.3%, respectively. Fractionated stereotactic intensity modulated radiation therapy is a novel technique used in the treatment of recurrent malignant gliomas, which produces results comparable to other currently used stereotactic techniques.}, }
@article {pmid12475131, year = {2002}, author = {Suutama, T and Ruoppila, I and Stig, B}, title = {Changes in cognitive functioning from 75 to 80 years of age: a 5-year follow-up in two Nordic localities.}, journal = {Aging clinical and experimental research}, volume = {14}, number = {3 Suppl}, pages = {29-36}, pmid = {12475131}, issn = {1594-0667}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*psychology ; *Cognition ; Demography ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Memory ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychometrics/methods ; Psychomotor Performance ; Scandinavian and Nordic Countries ; Thinking ; Verbal Behavior ; Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {The purpose of the study was to analyze changes and stability in cognitive functions among older persons aged from 75 to 80 years, as well as differences in this development between two Nordic localities. The number of subjects taking part in the follow-up phase was 188 in Jyväskylä, Finland, and 184 in Göteborg, Sweden. Cognitive functions were assessed using conventional memory tests (Digit Span Forward and Backward for assessing primary working memory; Visual Reproduction for visual memory) and intelligence tests (Digit Symbol for assessing psychomotor speed; Word Fluency for verbal ability; Raven's Matrices for non-verbal reasoning). With few exceptions, the mean test scores declined significantly among the retested men and women in both localities. Analyses showed that generally over half of the subjects maintained their level of performance over the 5-year period, while a part of the deteriorating minority had a steep decline. There were significant differences in the test performance between the localities both at the baseline and follow-up assessments, but few differences between women and men. On the whole, however, the groups of older women and men from the two Nordic localities had a similar pattern of cognitive development from 75 to 80 years of age.}, }
@article {pmid12461598, year = {2002}, author = {Waite, TA}, title = {Interruptions improve choice performance in gray jays: prolonged information processing versus minimization of costly errors.}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {5}, number = {4}, pages = {209-214}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-002-0146-7}, pmid = {12461598}, issn = {1435-9448}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Choice Behavior ; Female ; Learning ; Male ; Models, Biological ; Motivation ; Reinforcement Schedule ; Songbirds/*physiology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Under the assumption that selection favors minimization of costly errors, erroneous choice may be common when its fitness cost is low. According to an adaptive-choice model, this cost depends on the rate at which an animal encounters the choice: the higher this rate, the smaller the cost of choosing a less valuable option. Errors should thus be more common when interruptions to foraging are shorter. A previous experiment supported this prediction: gray jays, Perisoreus canadensis, were more error prone when subjected to shorter delays to access to food rewards. This pattern, though, is also predicted by an attentional-constraints model. Because the subjects were able to inspect the rewards during delays, their improved performance when subjected to longer delays could have been a byproduct of the experimentally prolonged opportunity for information processing. To evaluate this possibility, a follow-up experiment manipulated both delay to access and whether rewards could be inspected during delays. Depriving jays of the opportunity to inspect rewards (using opaque lids) induced only a small, nonsignificant increase in error rate. This effect was independent of length of delay and so the jays' improved performance when subjected to longer delays was not simply a byproduct of prolonged information processing. More definitively, even when the jays were prevented from inspecting rewards during delays, their performance improved when subjected to longer delays. The findings are thus consistent with the adaptive-choice model.}, }
@article {pmid12459822, year = {2002}, author = {Voldsgaard, P and Schiffman, J and Mednick, S and Rodgers, B and Christensen, H and Bredkjaer, S and Schulsinger, F}, title = {Accuracy of retrospective reports of infections during pregnancy.}, journal = {International journal of methods in psychiatric research}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {184-186}, pmid = {12459822}, issn = {1049-8931}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Influenza, Human/*epidemiology/microbiology ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Complications ; Retrospective Studies ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {A large body of research suggests a relationship between maternal influenza and the development of schizophrenia in the adult offspring. Some researchers, however, have questioned this association. A study by Crow and Done (1992) asserts that prenatal exposure to influenza does not cause schizophrenia. The methodology employed by Crow and Done may account for their null findings. Crow and colleagues assessed influenza by asking mothers at the time of birth to recall influenza infections experienced during pregnancy. Such retrospective recall may bias reporting. We assessed influenza symptoms during pregnancy in a group of 136 mothers at the twenty-fifth week of pregnancy, and again one or two days after birth. We compared accounts of influenza at the twenty-fifth week to recollection of influenza after birth. Results suggest that mothers tend to under-report infections when recalling infections after birth. Retrospective assessment of influenza symptoms at birth may be an inaccurate method of assessing influenza during pregnancy.}, }
@article {pmid12451366, year = {2002}, author = {Lowe, NJ and Lask, G and Yamauchi, P and Moore, D}, title = {Bilateral, double-blind, randomized comparison of 3 doses of botulinum toxin type A and placebo in patients with crow's feet.}, journal = {Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology}, volume = {47}, number = {6}, pages = {834-840}, doi = {10.1067/mjd.2002.124070}, pmid = {12451366}, issn = {0190-9622}, mesh = {Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Double-Blind Method ; Drug Administration Schedule ; Esthetics ; Facial Muscles/*drug effects ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Injections, Subcutaneous ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Probability ; Prospective Studies ; Reference Values ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Optimum dosing for botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) in crow's feet remains to be defined.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: Our purpose was to compare the efficacy and safety of 3 doses of BTX-A and placebo in patients with crow's feet.<br><br>METHODS: Patients were treated with 6, 12, or 18 units of BTX-A in orbicularis oculi muscle on one side and placebo contralaterally (double-blind design). At 16 weeks after injection, patients were treated with 12 or 18 units of BTX-A bilaterally (open-label design). Trained observers and patients rated the wrinkles on a scale of 0 (none) to 3 (severe) at maximum contraction and repose and at baseline and 4-week intervals over a 16-week period after injection.<br><br>RESULTS: All doses of BTX-A were significantly superior to placebo with no clear dose-response relationship. Benefits of the second injection lasted longer than the first. Few and mild adverse events were seen.<br><br>CONCLUSION: BTX-A is a safe and effective treatment for crow's feet. Benefits are more sustained with repeat treatment.}, }
@article {pmid12449681, year = {2002}, author = {Sermonti, G}, title = {"The median isn't the message". A homage to Stephen Jay Gould.}, journal = {Rivista di biologia}, volume = {95}, number = {2}, pages = {181-3, 185-7}, pmid = {12449681}, issn = {0035-6050}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; Paleontology/history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid12446291, year = {2002}, author = {Blake, H and McKinney, M and Treece, K and Lee, E and Lincoln, NB}, title = {An evaluation of screening measures for cognitive impairment after stroke.}, journal = {Age and ageing}, volume = {31}, number = {6}, pages = {451-456}, doi = {10.1093/ageing/31.6.451}, pmid = {12446291}, issn = {0002-0729}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Cognition Disorders/*complications/*diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mass Screening ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Program Evaluation/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Stroke/*etiology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To assess the sensitivity and specificity of a screening battery for detecting cognitive impairment after stroke.<br><br>DESIGN: A randomized controlled trial.<br><br>METHODS: Stroke patients were recruited from hospitals in three centres. Patients were screened for cognitive impairment on the Mini-Mental State Examination, the Sheffield Screening Test for Acquired Language Disorders and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices and received a further battery of assessments of cognitive function. Sensitivity and specificity values were calculated for the three screening measures for overall conclusions regarding cognitive impairment reached from a comprehensive assessment. Receiver Operating Characteristic Curves were plotted.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The Mini-Mental State Examination was not a useful screen for memory problems or overall cognitive impairment after stroke. The Sheffield Screening Test for Acquired Language Disorders was an appropriate screen for language problems. The Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices was appropriate as a screen for perceptual problems and visual inattention but not for executive deficits.}, }
@article {pmid12443352, year = {2002}, author = {Mookherjea, S and Yariv, A}, title = {Kerr-stabilized super-resonant modes in coupled-resonator optical waveguides.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {66}, number = {4 Pt 2}, pages = {046610}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.66.046610}, pmid = {12443352}, issn = {1539-3755}, abstract = {We investigate the effects of the optical Kerr nonlinearity in a coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW). Under certain conditions, there exists a stationary spatial distribution of the field whose envelope does not change with time-a super-resonant mode. The analysis does not indicate the existence of traveling hyperbolic-secant solitons of the Schrödinger type.}, }
@article {pmid12437797, year = {2002}, author = {Doubleday, EK and King, P and Papageorgiou, C}, title = {Relationship between fluid intelligence and ability to benefit from cognitive-behavioural therapy in older adults: a preliminary investigation.}, journal = {The British journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {41}, number = {Pt 4}, pages = {423-428}, doi = {10.1348/014466502760387542}, pmid = {12437797}, issn = {0144-6657}, mesh = {Aged ; Anxiety Disorders/diagnosis/*therapy ; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/*methods ; Counseling/methods ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Severity of Illness Index ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to conduct a preliminary evaluation of the hypothesis that fluid intelligence in older adults is associated with the ability to benefit from cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), but unrelated to the ability to benefit from non-directive supportive counselling (SC).<br><br>METHOD: A sample of 32 older adults who had completed a randomized controlled trial course of either CBT (N = 16) or SC (N = 16) for anxiety disorders took part in the study. The Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test was used to assess fluid intelligence. The Beck Anxiety Inventory change scores between pre-treatment and post-treatment were used as an index of ability to benefit from therapy. A measure of depressive symptomatology was also administered to control statistically for the effects of depression on intellectual functioning.<br><br>RESULTS: The results for the SC group showed a significant and positive association between fluid intelligence scores and anxiety change scores, such that older adults with higher levels of fluid intelligence demonstrated the most benefit from this intervention. In contrast, there was no significant association between level of fluid intelligence and ability to benefit from therapy in the CBT group.<br><br>CONCLUSION: CBT for anxiety disorders is suitable for older adults, irrespective of their fluid intelligence, while the nature of SC may render it more sensitive to level of fluid intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid12437430, year = {2002}, author = {Kokoska, MS and Amato, JB and Hollenbeak, CS and Glaser, DA}, title = {Modifications of eyebrow position with botulinum exotoxin A.}, journal = {Archives of facial plastic surgery}, volume = {4}, number = {4}, pages = {244-247}, doi = {10.1001/archfaci.4.4.244}, pmid = {12437430}, issn = {1521-2491}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; Eyebrows/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Female ; Humans ; *Injections ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Prospective Studies ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine if clinically used botulinum exotoxin A (Botox) injections to the forehead and glabellar and crow's-feet regions result in modifications of eyebrow position.<br><br>DESIGN: Prospective study.<br><br>SETTING: Academic medical center in St Louis, Mo.<br><br>SUBJECTS: Twenty-nine adult patients treated with botulinum exotoxin A injections for rhytids.<br><br>INTERVENTION: The eyebrow position at 13 different sites was measured before injection and 2 weeks after treatment. The areas injected were based on patient preference and physician assessment. Of the 29 patients, 14 received injections into the glabella only and 15 received injections into the glabella and forehead, with or without treatment of the crow's-feet.<br><br>RESULTS: In 29 patients at rest, we found no significant (P value range,.17 to.97) change in eyebrow position, except for a point depression at the right lateral eyebrow. The 15 patients who received injections into the forehead and glabella, with or without treatment of the crow's-feet, had no significant (P value range,.11 to.84) change in eyebrow position, except for a point of depression at the left medial eyebrow. Both groups exhibited eyebrow depression in the active state (eyebrow maximally elevated).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Botulinum exotoxin A injections into the forehead and glabellar, and crow's-feet regions did not significantly change the resting eyebrow position. However, forehead injections contributed to eyebrow depression in the active state.}, }
@article {pmid12436396, year = {2002}, author = {Rivero Martinez, E and Pascual Castroviejo, I}, title = {[Joubert syndrome. Report of four cases with a favourable evolution].}, journal = {Revista de neurologia}, volume = {35}, number = {10}, pages = {918-921}, pmid = {12436396}, issn = {0210-0010}, mesh = {Ataxia/complications/*physiopathology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Ocular Motility Disorders/complications/*physiopathology ; Prognosis ; Psychomotor Disorders/complications/*physiopathology ; Syndrome ; Telencephalon/*abnormalities ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To present 4 patients with Joubert syndrome who had a favourable evolution as well as to show that many cases have better prognosis than it is usually though.<br><br>CASE REPORT: Anamnesis, image and psychological studies of 4 children with Joubert syndrome, who had been seen in the Pediatric Neurology Service of the University Hospital La Paz of Madrid.<br><br>RESULTS: Four of our 11 patients with Joubert syndrome (36.36%) presented a favourable evolution. Their age ranged between 25 months old and 12 years old. The comprehensive language corresponded to their ages in 3 patients. Two patients began to talk at 19 and 20 months respectively. Three children exhibited a normal language and 1 only communicated by gestures at the time of the last clinical study. All the four children walked without help. The mental level was calculated by the Raven scale in 2 cases and they showed a borderline intellectual quotient (IQ). Both patients were self sufficient in their daily cleanliness and feeding. A patient was able to read, to write and to make mathematical calculi.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The Joubert syndrome is a heterogeneous disease from the clinic and genetics points of view, as well as in the evolution. Because of that, an attentive neuropsychological evaluation is necessary before giving the prognosis of the children.}, }
@article {pmid12434825, year = {2002}, author = {Kazlauskaite, V and Lynn, R}, title = {Two-year test-retest reliability of the colored progressive matrices.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {95}, number = {2}, pages = {354}, doi = {10.2466/pms.2002.95.2.354}, pmid = {12434825}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; *Color Perception ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Lithuania ; Male ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {The Raven Colored Progressive Matrices was administered to a sample of 259 children in Lithuania and re-administered 2 years later. The test-retest reliability was .499.}, }
@article {pmid12424652, year = {2002}, author = {Klingberg, T and Forssberg, H and Westerberg, H}, title = {Training of working memory in children with ADHD.}, journal = {Journal of clinical and experimental neuropsychology}, volume = {24}, number = {6}, pages = {781-791}, doi = {10.1076/jcen.24.6.781.8395}, pmid = {12424652}, issn = {1380-3395}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*psychology/*therapy ; Child ; *Cognition ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Memory ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Task Performance and Analysis ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {Working memory (WM) capacity is the ability to retain and manipulate information during a short period of time. This ability underlies complex reasoning and has generally been regarded as a fixed trait of the individual. Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) represent one group of subjects with a WM deficit, attributed to an impairment of the frontal lobe. In the present study, we used a new training paradigm with intensive and adaptive training of WM tasks and evaluated the effect of training with a double blind, placebo controlled design. Training significantly enhanced performance on the trained WM tasks. More importantly, the training significantly improved performance on a nontrained visuo-spatial WM task and on Raven's Progressive Matrices, which is a nonverbal complex reasoning task. In addition, motor activity--as measured by the number of head movements during a computerized test--was significantly reduced in the treatment group. A second experiment showed that similar training-induced improvements on cognitive tasks are also possible in young adults without ADHD. These results demonstrate that performance on WM tasks can be significantly improved by training, and that the training effect also generalizes to nontrained tasks requiring WM. Training improved performance on tasks related to prefrontal functioning and had also a significant effect on motor activity in children with ADHD. The results thus suggest that WM training potentially could be of clinical use for ameliorating the symptoms in ADHD.}, }
@article {pmid12419451, year = {2002}, author = {Crooks, SM and Xing, L}, title = {Application of constrained least-squares techniques to IMRT treatment planning.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {54}, number = {4}, pages = {1217-1224}, doi = {10.1016/s0360-3016(02)03810-5}, pmid = {12419451}, issn = {0360-3016}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Humans ; Least-Squares Analysis ; Male ; Prostatic Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: The purpose of this work was to apply the method of constrained least-squares to inverse treatment planning and to explore its potential for providing a fast interactive planning environment for intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: The description of the dose inside a patient is a linear matrix transformation of beamlet weights. The constrained least-squares method adds additional matrix operators and produces beamlet weights by a direct linear transformation. These matrix operators contain a priori knowledge about the radiation distribution. The constrained least-squares technique was applied to obtain IMRT plans for prostate and paraspinal cancer patients and compared with the corresponding plans optimized using the CORVUS inverse planning system.<br><br>RESULTS: It was demonstrated that a constrained least-squares technique is suitable for IMRT plan optimization with significantly increased computing speed. For the two cases we have tested, the constrained least-squares method was an order of magnitude faster than conventional iterative techniques because of the avoidance of the iterative calculations. We also found that the constrained least-squares method is capable of generating clinically acceptable treatment plans with less trial-and-error adjustments of system variables, and with improved target volume coverage as well as sensitive structure sparing in comparison with that obtained using CORVUS.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The constrained least-squares method has the advantage that it does not require iterative calculation and thus significantly speeds up the therapeutic plan optimization process. Besides shedding important insight into the inverse planning problem, the technique has strong potential to provide a fast and interactive environment for IMRT treatment planning.}, }
@article {pmid12414232, year = {2002}, author = {Weeks, AD and Ononge, S}, title = {The magpie trial.}, journal = {Lancet (London, England)}, volume = {360}, number = {9342}, pages = {1331; author reply 1331-2}, doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(02)11324-9}, pmid = {12414232}, issn = {0140-6736}, mesh = {Anticonvulsants/*administration &amp; dosage ; Eclampsia/*prevention &amp; control ; Female ; Humans ; Magnesium Sulfate/*administration &amp; dosage ; Pregnancy ; }, }
@article {pmid12414231, year = {2002}, author = {Guidotti, R}, title = {The magpie trial.}, journal = {Lancet (London, England)}, volume = {360}, number = {9342}, pages = {1331; author reply 1331-2}, doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(02)11325-0}, pmid = {12414231}, issn = {0140-6736}, mesh = {Anticonvulsants/*therapeutic use ; Eclampsia/*drug therapy ; Female ; Humans ; Magnesium Sulfate/*therapeutic use ; Pregnancy ; World Health Organization ; }, }
@article {pmid12414229, year = {2002}, author = {Mittendorf, R and Pryde, PG and Herschel, M and Lee, KS}, title = {The magpie trial.}, journal = {Lancet (London, England)}, volume = {360}, number = {9342}, pages = {1330-1; author reply 1331-2}, doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(02)11323-7}, pmid = {12414229}, issn = {0140-6736}, mesh = {Anticonvulsants/*adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Eclampsia/*prevention &amp; control ; Female ; Humans ; Magnesium Sulfate/*adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Pregnancy ; Tocolytic Agents/*adverse effects/therapeutic use ; }, }
@article {pmid12414228, year = {2002}, author = {Walters, BN and Graham, D and Hamilton, D}, title = {The magpie trial.}, journal = {Lancet (London, England)}, volume = {360}, number = {9342}, pages = {1329-30; author reply 1331-2}, doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(02)11322-5}, pmid = {12414228}, issn = {0140-6736}, mesh = {Anticonvulsants/*therapeutic use ; Eclampsia/*prevention &amp; control ; Female ; Humans ; Magnesium Sulfate/*therapeutic use ; Pre-Eclampsia/*drug therapy ; Pregnancy ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; }, }
@article {pmid12414227, year = {2002}, author = {Sibai, BM}, title = {The magpie trial.}, journal = {Lancet (London, England)}, volume = {360}, number = {9342}, pages = {1329; author reply 1331-2}, doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(02)11321-3}, pmid = {12414227}, issn = {0140-6736}, mesh = {Anticonvulsants/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Eclampsia/*prevention &amp; control ; Female ; Humans ; Magnesium Sulfate/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Pre-Eclampsia/*prevention &amp; control ; Pregnancy ; }, }
@article {pmid12406754, year = {2002}, author = {Refsum, T and Handeland, K and Baggesen, DL and Holstad, G and Kapperud, G}, title = {Salmonellae in avian wildlife in Norway from 1969 to 2000.}, journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology}, volume = {68}, number = {11}, pages = {5595-5599}, pmid = {12406754}, issn = {0099-2240}, mesh = {Animals ; Bacteriophage Typing ; Bird Diseases/*microbiology ; Norway ; Plasmids/genetics ; Salmonella/*classification/physiology ; Salmonella Infections, Animal/*microbiology ; }, abstract = {Postmortem records of wild-living birds in Norway with laboratory-confirmed findings of salmonella infection were summarized for the period from 1969 to 2000. Salmonella spp. were isolated from 470 birds belonging to 26 species. The salmonella-positive birds included 441 small passerines, 15 gulls, 5 waterfowl, 4 birds of prey, 3 doves, and 2 crows. The bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula) was by far the most frequently recorded species (54% of the cases). Salmonella enterica serover Typhimurium was recovered from all cases except from one hooded crow (Corvus corone), which yielded serovar Paratyphi-B var. Java. Variant O:4,12 comprised 96% (451 cases) of all serovar Typhimurium isolates, including all the passerines, while variant O:4,5,12 accounted for the remaining 4% (18 cases). The occurrence of salmonellae in small passerines showed a distinct seasonality, with a peak in February and March. Plasmid profile analysis of 346 isolates of serovar Typhimurium O:4,12 detected six profiles, of which two comprised 66 and 28% of the isolates, respectively. Phage typing of 52 randomly selected isolates of serovar Typhimurium O:4,12 from passerines detected four types: DT 40 (54%), U277 (35%), DT 99 (6%), and DT 110 (4%).}, }
@article {pmid12405482, year = {2002}, author = {von Gontard, A and Backes, M and Laufersweiler-Plass, C and Wendland, C and Lehmkuhl, G and Zerres, K and Rudnik-Schöneborn, S}, title = {Psychopathology and familial stress - comparison of boys with Fragile X syndrome and spinal muscular atrophy.}, journal = {Journal of child psychology and psychiatry, and allied disciplines}, volume = {43}, number = {7}, pages = {949-957}, doi = {10.1111/1469-7610.00098}, pmid = {12405482}, issn = {0021-9630}, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological ; Adolescent ; Child ; Chronic Disease ; Family/*psychology ; Fragile X Syndrome/*psychology ; Humans ; Male ; Muscular Atrophy, Spinal/*psychology ; Psychopathology ; Social Support ; *Stress, Psychological ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Chronic illness and mental retardation are both associated with an increased rate of behavioural problems in children and with considerable emotional strain in families. The aim of the study was to analyse and compare the specific effects of two exemplary conditions on familial stress and coping.<br><br>METHODS: Forty-nine boys with Fragile X syndrome (FXS) were compared with 46 boys with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) and 32 male controls. Intelligence was measured with the RAVEN or K-ABC tests. Psychopathology was assessed with the CBCL questionnaire and a structured psychiatric interview (Kinder-DIPS), parental stress with the QRS, coping with the F-COPES and social support with the F-SOZU questionnaires.<br><br>RESULTS: The mean age of the FXS boys was 8.6, of the SMA boys 12.7 and of the controls 11.2 years. The mean IQ was 47 for the FXS, 112 for the SMA and 103 for the control groups. According to the CBCL, 89.8% of the FXS boys, 21.7% of the SMA and 15.7% of the controls had a total score in the borderline or clinical range. The rates were 63.3%, 34.8% and 21.9% for internalising and 67.3%, 10.9% and 18.8% for externalising behaviour, respectively. 81.6% of the FXS and 10.9% of the SMA patients had a DSM-IV or ICD-10 psychiatric diagnosis. The most common were ADHD (FXS: 36) and Separation Anxiety Disorder (SMA: 4). In total, parental stress was significantly higher in the FXS than in the SMA families (and in both compared to controls). There were no major inter-group differences regarding social support and familial coping.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Children with FXS are severely mentally retarded and have a high rate of mainly externalising disorders. Despite good coping abilities and social support, this is associated with high familial stress. The SMA boys, with an intelligence in the upper normal range, are no more deviant than their healthy controls. Parental stress is lower in the SMA families with good coping abilities. In conclusion, families with mentally retarded children are in even greater need of help than those of children with severe chronic illness/physical handicap.}, }
@article {pmid12404467, year = {2001}, author = {Klärner, FG}, title = {About the Antiaromaticity of Planar Cyclooctatetraene I thank Jens Panitzky for the additional DFT calculations, and Professor Jay Siegel, La Jolla, CA, and Professor Otto Ermer, Cologne, for helpful comments.}, journal = {Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English)}, volume = {40}, number = {21}, pages = {3977-3981}, pmid = {12404467}, issn = {1521-3773}, }
@article {pmid12399602, year = {2002}, author = {Murata, K}, title = {Prevalence of blood parasites in Japanese wild birds.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {64}, number = {9}, pages = {785-790}, doi = {10.1292/jvms.64.785}, pmid = {12399602}, issn = {0916-7250}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/blood/*parasitology ; Bird Diseases/blood/*epidemiology/*parasitology ; Birds/blood/*parasitology ; Haemosporida/isolation &amp; purification ; Japan/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; Protozoan Infections, Animal/blood/*epidemiology/parasitology ; }, abstract = {The prevalence of blood parasites was investigated in 701 Japanese wild birds for 13 years from January, 1988 to March, 2001. Most of the injured or sick birds were caught in the suburbs of Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture and brought to the zoo for clinical care. Among all the birds examined, 10.6% were infected with hematozoa belonging to three genera as Plasmodium (1.7% of the samples), Haemoproteus (5.1% of the samples) and Leucocytozoon (4.6% of the samples), and two birds (0.29% of the samples), a Japanese grosbeak (Coccothraustes personatus) and a dusky thrush (Turdus naumanni), were infected with microfilariae. Mixed infection with Leucocytozoon sp. and Haemoproteus sp. was observed in 6 individuals of 4 species and that with Leucocytozoon sp. and microfilariae was observed in 2 individuals of 2 species of bird. Relatively high positive rates were 75%(3/4) in the scops owl (Otus scops), 71.4% (10/14) in the ural owl (Strix uralensis), 57.7% (15/26) in the jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos), 57.1% (4/7) in the black-tailed gull (Larus crassirostris), 55.6% (5/9) in the brown hawk owl (Ninox scutulata), 41% (16/39) in the carrion crow (Corvus corone) and 24.1% (7/29) in the night heron (Nycticorax nicticorax).}, }
@article {pmid12397447, year = {2002}, author = {Bosch, G and Jacobo, O and Seoane, J and Martirena, A and de los Ríos, G}, title = {The extended brow lift: the toucan technique.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {26}, number = {4}, pages = {255-262}, doi = {10.1007/s00266-002-2023-9}, pmid = {12397447}, issn = {0364-216X}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Blepharoplasty/*methods ; *Eyebrows ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; }, abstract = {Brow ptosis is the main consequence of aging in the upper third of the face. Many methods have been described to correct it: skin excisions of the brow hairline, skin excisions of the forehead natural creases, skin trimmings of the temporal, coronal, or forehead hairline flaps, and endoscopic methods [1,15,17,18,24,26,27]. The authors created a procedure which is based on a forehead-temporal subcutaneous flap and a muscular relocation. It treats the brow ptosis and its surrounding area-temporal ptosis, upper and lower lateral eyelid ptosis, crow's feet-and at the same time improves the sclera show or ectropion. The method preserves the sideburn and the temporal hairline and can reduce the width between the temporal hairline and the lateral end of the eyebrow. The method produces maximum improvement, with high-quality scars and minimal evidence of surgery. The procedure is called "The Toucan Technique," due to the shape of the skin resection which looks like a toucan bird [11,13,14].}, }
@article {pmid12374376, year = {2002}, author = {Kapulsky, A and Mullokandov, E and Gejerman, G}, title = {An automated phantom-film QA procedure for intensity-modulated radiation therapy.}, journal = {Medical dosimetry : official journal of the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists}, volume = {27}, number = {3}, pages = {201-207}, doi = {10.1016/s0958-3947(02)00137-1}, pmid = {12374376}, issn = {0958-3947}, mesh = {Electronic Data Processing/*instrumentation/*methods ; Film Dosimetry/*instrumentation/*methods ; Humans ; Models, Biological ; Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; *Phantoms, Imaging ; Quality Control ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy, Computer-Assisted/*instrumentation/*methods ; }, abstract = {To verify that the calculated dose distribution is delivered accurately during intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), we have implemented an automated plan/film validation protocol. The cubic polystyrene film phantom provided with the Peacock IMRT system and the Radiation Imaging Technology (RIT) film dosimetry system were used to compare planned and delivered dose distributions. The calculated dose matrix from CORVUS was transferred to RIT and analyzed. The analysis included dose-difference histograms, dose comparison in low-gradient areas, distance to agreement in high-gradient areas, dose profiles, and isodose comparisons. Dose differences of up to 5% were commonly observed in the high-dose and low-gradient areas between verification films and treatment plans for prostate patients. The most prominent discrepancies were detected in the high-gradient areas of dose distributions. The automated protocol is an efficient technique that provides information about spatial differences between calculated and delivered doses.}, }
@article {pmid12373841, year = {2002}, author = {Nishitani, H}, title = {[Contribution of Japanese researchers to progress in the field of neurology in the last 100 years: Crow-Fukase (POEMS)].}, journal = {Nihon Naika Gakkai zasshi. The Journal of the Japanese Society of Internal Medicine}, volume = {91}, number = {8}, pages = {2316-2320}, pmid = {12373841}, issn = {0021-5384}, mesh = {Endothelial Growth Factors/history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/history ; Japan ; Lymphokines/history ; POEMS Syndrome/etiology/*history ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors ; }, }
@article {pmid12373368, year = {2002}, author = {Evdokimidis, I and Smyrnis, N and Constantinidis, TS and Stefanis, NC and Avramopoulos, D and Paximadis, C and Theleritis, C and Efstratiadis, C and Kastrinakis, G and Stefanis, CN}, title = {The antisaccade task in a sample of 2,006 young men. I. Normal population characteristics.}, journal = {Experimental brain research}, volume = {147}, number = {1}, pages = {45-52}, doi = {10.1007/s00221-002-1208-4}, pmid = {12373368}, issn = {0014-4819}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Computer Graphics ; Epidemiologic Methods ; Humans ; Male ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Reaction Time/physiology ; Reference Values ; Saccades/*physiology ; }, abstract = {A population of 2,075 young men aged 18-25 years selected from the conscripts of the Greek Air Force performed an antisaccade task as part of a prospective study for the identification of risk factors in the development of psychoses. The aim of this study, which is ongoing, is to follow this population and investigate the possible predictive value of oculomotor, cognitive, and psychometric factors for the development of psychosis and other psychiatric conditions. In this report we present data concerning the antisaccade task in this population. We measured performance indices, including the percentage of errors (PE), the latencies of different eye movement responses (latency for correct antisaccades, errors, corrections), and performance in perseveration-prone trials. These indices were also evaluated with respect to IQ (measured by the Raven progressive matrices test) and educational level. Mean PE was 23%, with 17% variance. This large variance is of particular importance whenever the detection of a putative deviant behavior is explored. As mean latency of the first eye movement decreased, the PE increased, as did the latency variance. While the negative correlation between percentage of error and mean latency is well established, the relationship of the latency variability of the first response to error production has not been studied before. Thus, optimal performance appears to require both an intermediate mean latency and a small variability. Furthermore, performance seems to be affected by IQ (the higher the IQ score, the lower the percentage of errors). This report offers an analysis of the interindividual variation in the performance of the antisaccade task and discusses some of the sources of this variation.}, }
@article {pmid12372360, year = {2002}, author = {Andreou, G and Galanopoulou, C and Gourgoulianis, K and Karapetsas, A and Molyvdas, P}, title = {Cognitive status in Down syndrome individuals with sleep disordered breathing deficits (SDB).}, journal = {Brain and cognition}, volume = {50}, number = {1}, pages = {145-149}, doi = {10.1016/s0278-2626(02)00019-2}, pmid = {12372360}, issn = {0278-2626}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology ; Down Syndrome/*complications ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Polysomnography ; Severity of Illness Index ; Sleep Apnea Syndromes/*complications ; }, abstract = {Twelve subjects with Down syndrome underwent polysomnographic studies during night sleep and performed the Mini-Mental state test and the Raven Progressive Matrices (RPM), sets A, B, and B(1). Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) deficits were observed in Down syndrome individuals and their Mini-Mental and RPM scores were extremely low. Regression analysis of the results revealed that the number of apneas per hour was related with the results of the RPM, set A, which were also related with the orientation of Mini-Mental test, indicating that the more apneas an individual has the more difficulties he has in the kind of visuoperceptual skills, including orientation, associated with normal right hemisphere functioning, which are tested by set A of the RPM.}, }
@article {pmid12365854, year = {2002}, author = {Natsopoulo, D and Christou, C and Koutselini, M and Raftopoulos, A and Karefillidou, C}, title = {Structure and coherence of reasoning ability in Down Syndrome adults and typically developing children.}, journal = {Research in developmental disabilities}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {297-307}, doi = {10.1016/s0891-4222(02)00088-4}, pmid = {12365854}, issn = {0891-4222}, mesh = {Adult ; Child, Preschool ; *Concept Formation ; Down Syndrome/*diagnosis/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Logic ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; *Problem Solving ; Reference Values ; }, abstract = {The present study investigates the ability of Down Syndrome (DS) adults to reason: (a) deductively with transitivity (linear and reverse relations) and categorical syllogisms (all-some relations); (b) inductively with classical verbal analogies and non-verbal analogical reasoning (Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices); and (c) to retain information in short-term memory. The results have shown that: (i) The Down Syndrome adults did not differ from typically developing children, matched on expressive and verbal ability, in transitivity and non-verbal analogical thinking; (ii) they differed in categorical reasoning, classical verbal analogies and short-term memory. Application of a structural model demonstrated that, despite differences in slope means in the three measures, the structure of functioning within-and-across all domains of cognition tests and its growth pattern, equally reliable and coherent, goes in parallel for the Down Syndrome adults and the typically developing children. The results are discussed within the context of the two-group developmental and difference approach.}, }
@article {pmid12349925, year = {2002}, author = {Chen, Z and Xing, L and Nath, R}, title = {Independent monitor unit calculation for intensity modulated radiotherapy using the MIMiC multileaf collimator.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {29}, number = {9}, pages = {2041-2051}, doi = {10.1118/1.1500397}, pmid = {12349925}, issn = {0094-2405}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Computer Simulation ; Equipment Design ; Models, Biological ; Photons ; Quality Control ; Radiometry/instrumentation/*methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/instrumentation/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/instrumentation/*methods ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; }, abstract = {A self-consistent monitor unit (MU) and isocenter point-dose calculation method has been developed that provides an independent verification of the MU for intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) using the MIMiC (Nomos Corporation) multileaf collimator. The method takes into account two unique features of IMRT using the MIMiC: namely the gantry-dynamic arc delivery of intensity modulated photon beams and the slice-by-slice dose delivery for large tumor volumes. The method converts the nonuniform beam intensity planned at discrete gantry angles of 5 degrees or 10 degrees into conventional nonmodulated beam intensity apertures of elemental arc segments of 1 degree. This approach more closely simulates the actual gantry-dynamic arc delivery by MIMiC. Because each elemental arc segment is of uniform intensity, the MU calculation for an IMRT arc is made equivalent to a conventional arc with gantry-angle dependent beam apertures. The dose to the isocenter from each 1 degree elemental arc segment is calculated by using the Clarkson scatter summation technique based on measured tissue-maximum-ratio and output factors, independent of the dose calculation model used in the IMRT planning system. For treatments requiring multiple treatment slices, the MU for the arc at each treatment slice takes into account the MU, leakage and scatter doses from other slices. This is achieved by solving a set of coupled linear equations for the MUs of all involved treatment slices. All input dosimetry data for the independent MU/isocenter point-dose calculation are measured directly. Comparison of the MU and isocenter point dose calculated by the independent program to those calculated by the Corvus planning system and to direct measurements has shown good agreement with relative difference less than +/-3%. The program can be used as an independent initial MU verification for IMRT plans using the MIMiC multileaf collimators.}, }
@article {pmid12298188, year = {2002}, author = {Karwowska-Polecka, W and Halicka, D and Jakubów, P and Braszko, JJ}, title = {[The effect of enalapril and captopril on emotional processes in hypertensive patients].}, journal = {Psychiatria polska}, volume = {36}, number = {4}, pages = {591-601}, pmid = {12298188}, issn = {0033-2674}, mesh = {Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors/*pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Antihypertensive Agents/*pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Captopril/*pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Emotions/*drug effects ; Enalapril/*pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Female ; Humans ; Hypertension/*drug therapy/*psychology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Single-Blind Method ; Stress, Psychological/*etiology ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {This study was aimed at the estimation of influence of enalapril and captopril on emotional processes in hypertensive patients. Hypertensive subjects evaluated before introducing drug treatment and normotensive persons comprised the control groups. All groups were examined with the psychological methods (BDI, HSC, Raven's Matric test). In BDI, there were no significant differences between the groups in the total score and particular factors as well. In HSC, there were significant differences in the total ratings between untreated hypertensive subjects and the normotensive group (p < 0.05). The depression/anxiety profile was the main contributing factor being itself significantly different (p < 0.05) in those groups. Enalapril and captopril reversed the negative behavioural changes caused by hypertension only moderately with no statistical significance. There were no alterations in intellectual abilities tested by the Raven's Matric test in any group examined. In conclusion, significant negative emotional effects of high blood pressure are only partly reversed by the antihypertensive doses of enalapril and captopril.}, }
@article {pmid12235821, year = {2001}, author = {Arimura, K and Osame, M and Hashiguchi, T}, title = {[Vascular endothelial growth factor and Crow-Fukase syndrome].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {41}, number = {12}, pages = {1144-1146}, pmid = {12235821}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Animals ; Blood Platelets/metabolism ; Capillary Permeability ; Endothelial Growth Factors/*blood ; Humans ; Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/*blood ; Lymphokines/*blood ; Mice ; Mice, Nude ; POEMS Syndrome/*etiology ; Platelet Aggregation ; T-Lymphocytes ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors ; }, abstract = {Serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is highly elevated in patients with Crow-Fukase syndrome (CFS) and is well correlated with the clinical manifestations of CFS. In circulating blood, VEGF is specifically stored in platelets and released during platelet aggregation. To clarify the role of VEGF in the pathomechanism of CFS, we transplanted VEGF secretion tumors in nude mice and studied the pathological findings in these mice. Prominent edema with elevated serum VEGF were found. Organomegaly was also found in liver, spleen and kidney. Pathological findings in these organs were similar to those found in autopsies of CFS patients. In peripheral nerve, mild intraneural edema was seen, however, neuropathy was not prominent. These findings suggest that elevated VEGF may be closely correlated with generalized edema (anasarca). However, it is also important to consider factors such as cytokines and other T cell functions that, in association with VEGF, may be the cause of neuropathy in CFS.}, }
@article {pmid12227834, year = {2002}, author = {Thomas, SP}, title = {Eating crow while it's still warm.}, journal = {Issues in mental health nursing}, volume = {23}, number = {7}, pages = {673-674}, doi = {10.1080/01612840290052794}, pmid = {12227834}, issn = {0161-2840}, mesh = {Humans ; *Psychiatric Nursing ; Societies, Nursing/*organization &amp; administration ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid12217643, year = {2002}, author = {Scott, AE and Kashon, ML and Yucesoy, B and Luster, MI and Tinkle, SS}, title = {Insights into the quantitative relationship between sensitization and challenge for allergic contact dermatitis reactions.}, journal = {Toxicology and applied pharmacology}, volume = {183}, number = {1}, pages = {66-70}, doi = {10.1006/taap.2002.9469}, pmid = {12217643}, issn = {0041-008X}, mesh = {Adjuvants, Immunologic/administration &amp; dosage/*toxicity ; Animals ; Cyclobutanes/administration &amp; dosage/*toxicity ; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact/*etiology/immunology ; Dinitrochlorobenzene/administration &amp; dosage/*toxicity ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Female ; Immunization/*methods ; Irritants/administration &amp; dosage/*toxicity ; Local Lymph Node Assay ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Risk Assessment ; }, abstract = {The ability of chemical or pharmaceutical agents to induce allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is of major health and regulatory concern. As such, tests to identify their sensitizing capacity, such as the guinea pig maximization test and the more recently developed local lymph node assay, are broadly used. Ideally, for risk assessment it is useful to translate results from animal data into establishing safe or no-effect levels for occupational or environmental agents. This, of course, would require consideration of the quantitative relationships between sensitizing and challenge doses as well as other exposure conditions. In the present studies, we modeled two sensitizers, 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene and squaric acid dibutyl ester, over a large range of concentrations using the LLNA and more traditional tests that measure both sensitization and elicitation responses. Both the sensitization and challenge phases provided similar dose-response curves, demonstrating a threshold followed by a shallow linear increase and eventual plateau at increasing doses. Extending earlier studies by P. S. Friedmann (1994, Immunotoxicology and Immunopharmacology, pp. 589-616, Raven Press, New York) in humans, we observed that the minimum dose required to elicit sensitization or challenge was not static, but rather reflected a "sliding-scale." That is, as the sensitization dose was increased, the concentration required to elicit a challenge response was decreased. Correspondingly, as the challenge dose was increased, the dose required for sensitization was lessened. Taken together, these findings indicate that there is a need to consider dose-response relationships for sensitization and challenge in establishing minimum exposure levels for chemicals that cause ACD.}, }
@article {pmid12211533, year = {2002}, author = {Araki, T and Konno, T and Soma, R and Nakashima, A and Takimoto, H and Tofuku, Y and Shimizu, M}, title = {Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with high-output heart failure.}, journal = {Internal medicine (Tokyo, Japan)}, volume = {41}, number = {8}, pages = {638-641}, doi = {10.2169/internalmedicine.41.638}, pmid = {12211533}, issn = {0918-2918}, mesh = {Cardiac Output, High/diagnosis/*etiology/physiopathology ; Endothelial Growth Factors/blood ; Female ; Heart Failure/diagnosis/*etiology/physiopathology ; Humans ; Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/blood ; Lymphokines/blood ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications/diagnosis/physiopathology ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors ; }, abstract = {A 64-year-old woman was admitted with systemic edema and exertional dyspnea. High-output heart failure was diagnosed by right heart catheterization and she was treated with diuretics. After 3 weeks, her symptoms disappeared but a high cardiac output state persisted. A diagnosis of Crow-Fukase syndrome was made based on the presence of polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M-protein, and skin changes. Her serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) level was markedly elevated after recovery from heart failure. We suspect that an elevated VEGF level and a high cardiac output state may play a role in the pathogenesis of heart failure in Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid12210104, year = {2002}, author = {Shaw, BK and Kennedy, GG}, title = {Evidence for species differences in the pattern of androgen receptor distribution in relation to species differences in an androgen-dependent behavior.}, journal = {Journal of neurobiology}, volume = {52}, number = {3}, pages = {203-220}, doi = {10.1002/neu.10079}, pmid = {12210104}, issn = {0022-3034}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Chickens ; Chimera ; Coturnix ; Immunohistochemistry ; Mesencephalon/*chemistry/physiology ; Receptors, Androgen/*analysis ; Rhombencephalon/*chemistry/physiology ; Species Specificity ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) and Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica), two closely related gallinaceous bird species, exhibit a form of vocalization-crowing-which differs between the species in two components: its temporal acoustic pattern and its accompanying postural motor pattern. Previous work utilizing the quail-chick chimera technique demonstrated that the species-specific characteristics of the two crow components are determined by distinct brain structures: the midbrain confers the acoustic pattern, and the caudal hindbrain confers the postural pattern. Crowing is induced by androgens, acting directly on androgen receptors. As a strategy for identifying candidate neurons in the midbrain and caudal hindbrain that could be involved in crow production, we performed immunocytochemistry for androgen receptors in these brain regions in both species. We also investigated midbrain-to-hindbrain vocal-motor projections. In the midbrain, both species showed prominent androgen receptor immunoreactivity in the nucleus intercollicularis, as had been reported in previous studies. In the caudal hindbrain, we discovered characteristic species differences in the pattern of androgen receptor distribution. Chickens, but not quail, showed strong immunoreactivity in the tracheosyringeal division of the hypoglossal nucleus, whereas quail, but not chickens, possessed strong immunoreactivity in a region of the ventrolateral medulla. Some of these differences in hindbrain androgen receptor distribution may be related to the species differences in the postural component of crowing behavior. The results of the present study imply that the spatial distribution of receptor proteins can vary even between closely related species. Such variation in receptor distribution could underlie the evolution of species differences in behavior.}, }
@article {pmid12209822, year = {2002}, author = {Hatzimanikatis, V and Liao, JC}, title = {A memorial review of Jay Bailey's contribution in prokaryotic metabolic engineering.}, journal = {Biotechnology and bioengineering}, volume = {79}, number = {5}, pages = {504-508}, doi = {10.1002/bit.10406}, pmid = {12209822}, issn = {0006-3592}, mesh = {Biochemistry/history ; Biomedical Engineering/*history ; Biotechnology/*history ; History, 20th Century ; Prokaryotic Cells/metabolism ; Protein Engineering/methods ; Switzerland ; United States ; }, abstract = {When mentioning prokaryotic metabolic engineering, most people will immediately think of Jay Bailey. Jay's contribution to this fast-growing field is evident and familiar to many. Therefore, instead of a detailed technical review, we attempt in this article to summarize his contribution and dissect reasons for his success in this area from a standpoint of one of his former students (VH) and of a colleague in the field (JCL). This short review is by no means complete and provides only a partial view of Jay's contribution to the metabolic engineering of prokaryotes.}, }
@article {pmid12209820, year = {2002}, author = {Dordick, JS and Khosla, C}, title = {Engineering of molecular and cellular biocatalysts: selected contributions by James E. Bailey.}, journal = {Biotechnology and bioengineering}, volume = {79}, number = {5}, pages = {490-495}, doi = {10.1002/bit.10404}, pmid = {12209820}, issn = {0006-3592}, mesh = {Biochemistry/history ; Biomedical Engineering/*history ; Biotechnology/*history ; Catalysis ; Enzymes, Immobilized ; History, 20th Century ; Switzerland ; United States ; }, abstract = {James (Jay) E. Bailey was a pioneer in biotechnology and biochemical engineering. During his 30 years in academia he made seminal contributions to many fields of chemical engineering science, including catalysis and reaction engineering, bioprocess engineering, mathematical modeling of cellular processes, recombinant DNA technology, enzyme engineering, and metabolic engineering. This article celebrates some of his contributions to the engineering of molecular and cellular biocatalysts, and identifies the influence he had on current and future research in biotechnology.}, }
@article {pmid12209819, year = {2002}, author = {Reardon, KF and Lee, KH and Wittrup, KD and Hatzimanikatis, V}, title = {Jay Bailey as mentor--the students' perspective.}, journal = {Biotechnology and bioengineering}, volume = {79}, number = {5}, pages = {484-489}, doi = {10.1002/bit.10402}, pmid = {12209819}, issn = {0006-3592}, mesh = {Biochemistry/*history ; Biomedical Engineering/*history ; History, 20th Century ; Mentors/history ; Students/history ; Switzerland ; Teaching/history ; United States ; }, abstract = {Professor James E. Bailey was not only a world-renowned leader and pioneer in biochemical engineering but also a mentor to the many graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in his group. To provide non-"Bailey-ites" with an impression of Jay as a mentor, we begin with a brief review of his career, focusing on the dynamics of the research group. Typical student experiences of being part of the Bailey group are then discussed, including the recognition of a particular research style and Jay's expectations for hard work. Finally, we provide some thoughts on Jay's mentoring style, which was marked by an ability to foster independence, a sense of quality, and passion for research. Jay's contributions as a mentor can perhaps be recognized as being as significant as his research achievements.}, }
@article {pmid12204132, year = {2002}, author = {Ekman, J and Griesser, M}, title = {Why offspring delay dispersal: experimental evidence for a role of parental tolerance.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {269}, number = {1501}, pages = {1709-1713}, pmid = {12204132}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Cooperative Behavior ; Female ; *Intergenerational Relations ; Male ; Parenting ; Population Dynamics ; Reproduction ; *Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Approximately 3% of all bird species live in families based on a prolonged parent-offspring association. Formation of family groups often appears to be associated with various constraints on the possibilities of independent reproduction for the offspring. However, delayed dispersal is not the only alternative for offspring that defer reproduction. To account for the formation of a family group it is also necessary to explain why non-dispersing offspring forego the alternative options to join other groups as 'extra birds' or to become 'floaters' and roam between territories. We removed fathers from Siberian jay Perisoreus infaustus family groups to test the proposal that nepotistic parental tolerance gives the natal territory a special value for the offspring, which they cannot find elsewhere and that makes them stay. In this species, parents are more tolerant of their retained offspring than towards immigrant extra birds. In response to the removal of fathers, retained offspring dispersed, whereas there was no similar response among the unrelated extra birds. Retained offspring, however, left only after despotic immigrant alpha-males replaced removed fathers, indicating that the presence of fathers is an essential motive for offspring to delay their dispersal. By blocking immigrant and unrelated males from becoming alpha-males and by being tolerant themselves, fathers provide a 'safe haven' in the natal territory where retained offspring can avail themselves of available resources without any, or only mild, competitive interference.}, }
@article {pmid12204127, year = {2002}, author = {Fok, KW and Wade, CM and Parkin, DT}, title = {Inferring the phylogeny of disjunct populations of the azure-winged magpie Cyanopica cyanus from mitochondrial control region sequences.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {269}, number = {1501}, pages = {1671-1679}, pmid = {12204127}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; DNA, Mitochondrial/*genetics ; Evolution, Molecular ; Female ; Genetic Variation/genetics ; Haplotypes/genetics ; Male ; *Phylogeny ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Population Dynamics ; Pseudogenes/genetics ; Regulatory Sequences, Nucleic Acid/*genetics ; Songbirds/*classification/*genetics ; }, abstract = {The azure-winged magpie (AWM), Cyanopica cyanus, is found in Asia and Iberia. This remarkable disjunct distribution has been variously explained by either the sixteenth-century introduction of birds into Iberia from the Far East, or by the loss of individuals from the central part of their range as a result of Pleistocene glaciations. We have used the mitochondrial control region to undertake a molecular phylogenetic analysis of the AWM, with sequences examined from individuals collected from across the current distribution range and incorporating representatives of all currently defined subspecies. The Western birds are genetically distinct from their Asian congeners and their divergence is basal in the phylogenetic tree. This indicates that the AWM is native to Iberia and not the result of a recent introduction from Asia. In Asia, two major mitochondrial DNA lineages were identified. These correspond to an Inland Asia group and a Pacific Seaboard group, and are separated topographically by the Da Hingan Ling mountains and the Yellow Sea. Molecular clock estimates suggest that these divergences are associated with Pleistocene glaciations. Furthermore, our data do not support the current classification of the AWM into 10 subspecies, as defined based on morphology and geographical distribution.}, }
@article {pmid12201415, year = {2002}, author = {Hossain, M and Houser, CJ and Galvin, JM}, title = {Output variation from an intensity modulating dynamic collimator.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {29}, number = {8}, pages = {1693-1697}, doi = {10.1118/1.1493782}, pmid = {12201415}, issn = {0094-2405}, mesh = {Equipment Failure Analysis/*methods ; *Models, Biological ; Quality Control ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*instrumentation/*methods ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Water ; }, abstract = {Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) offers a method of delivering radiation dose conforming to the shape of targets while minimizing the dose to the surrounding tissue and nearby critical organs. One popular device is the NOMOS MIMiC Collimator coupled to the CORVUS treatment planning system. The MIMiC collimator, mounted on a linac head, opens and closes one or more of its 40 small leaves as determined by the planner while the linac delivers radiation and the gantry rotates. This dynamic IMRT allows the intensity to be modulated yielding a highly conformal dose distribution. However, the dose output becomes a function of the detailed manner in which the leaves open and close, since the opening and closing are not instantaneous. We investigate the effect of switch rates and delay in the open/close events on the output profiles. The output is enhanced as the switch rate increases. The enhancement factor at any point of measurement is dependent on its distance from the central plane. We interpret these variations in terms of a simple model, which includes the effect of leaf travel time during the process of opening and closing. We also include the time delay in establishing the specified pressure in the pneumonic device, which controls the opening and closing of the leaves. The information presented here offers a means for incorporating these output changes into the planning system. This may avoid the current situation where many patient plans need to be renormalized based on the actual measurement taken during the delivery of the specified intensity pattern to a phantom.}, }
@article {pmid12201234, year = {2002}, author = {Kosztolányi, P and Kállai, J and Balás, I and Karádi, K and Dóczi, T}, title = {[Neuropsychologic outcome after bilateral pallidotomy in patients with Parkinson disease].}, journal = {Ideggyogyaszati szemle}, volume = {55}, number = {7-8}, pages = {263-267}, pmid = {12201234}, issn = {0019-1442}, mesh = {Age of Onset ; Aged ; Female ; Globus Pallidus/*surgery ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Neurosurgical Procedures/methods ; Parkinson Disease/*physiopathology/*psychology/surgery ; Psychomotor Performance ; Time Factors ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Although significant improvement of motor function following bilateral pallidotomy for the treatment of Parkinson's disease has been proved, the cognitive sequelae have not been clearly defined. There are recurrent loops interconnecting specific areas of the frontal cortex and the basal ganglia, suggesting the continuity or complementary functioning between these areas.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: Pre- and postoperative cognitive function was evaluated in 19 Parkinsonian patients who underwent bilateral pallidotomy in order to clarify its effects on cognitive function. All patients were evaluated one day before the procedure and 12+ months after surgery using neuropsychological tests (Raven Progressive Matrices and Bergen Facial Recognition Test). Proper performance in these tests requires reasoning, abstraction and spatial memory, involving strongly the frontal functions. These functions could be described in terms of the "working memory" concept. Hand Mental Rotation Test was used as comparing task not involving frontal functions. Scores were analyzed by Student's t-test.<br><br>RESULTS: Modest improvement was observed in these cognitive functions as assessed by Raven Progressive Matrices (p < 0.0688) and a significant change in the complex parts of Bergen Facial Recognition Test (p < 0.0547; p < 0.0468) was also noticed, but no change was registered in mental rotation tasks.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Present data revealed that bilateral pallidotomy is associated with modest and long-lasting improvement in tasks involving the "working memory".}, }
@article {pmid12192654, year = {2002}, author = {Herzenberg, CL}, title = {On Stephen Jay Gould.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {297}, number = {5584}, pages = {1120}, doi = {10.1126/science.297.5584.1120b}, pmid = {12192654}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Biological Evolution ; Biology/history ; Communism/*history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid12186355, year = {2002}, author = {Brewin, CR and Beaton, A}, title = {Thought suppression, intelligence, and working memory capacity.}, journal = {Behaviour research and therapy}, volume = {40}, number = {8}, pages = {923-930}, doi = {10.1016/s0005-7967(01)00127-9}, pmid = {12186355}, issn = {0005-7967}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; *Memory ; *Motivation ; *Thinking ; }, abstract = {The importance of individual differences in intelligence and working memory capacity in predicting the ability to intentionally suppress thoughts was investigated. Sixty participants completed a thought suppression task, and measures of working memory capacity (OSPAN), fluid intelligence (Raven's Matrices), and crystallised intelligence (the National Adult Reading Test). As predicted, the results indicated that more effective thought suppression was independently related to higher working memory capacity and greater fluid intelligence, but was unrelated to crystallised intelligence. The findings have theoretical implications for understanding the mechanisms underlying a failure to inhibit unwanted intrusions and clinical implications for disorders involving high levels of intrusive thoughts and memories.}, }
@article {pmid12186223, year = {2002}, author = {, }, title = {Weekly update: West Nile virus activity--United States, July 17-23, 2002.}, journal = {MMWR. Morbidity and mortality weekly report}, volume = {51}, number = {29}, pages = {645-646}, pmid = {12186223}, issn = {0149-2195}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/virology ; Culicidae/virology ; Horse Diseases/virology ; Horses/virology ; Humans ; Louisiana/epidemiology ; Middle Aged ; Mississippi/epidemiology ; Songbirds/virology ; United States/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology ; West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {This report summarizes West Nile virus (WNV) surveillance data reported to CDC through ArboNET and verified by states and other jurisdictions as of July 23, 2002. During the reporting week of July 17-23, nine human cases of WNV were reported from two states (Louisiana and Mississippi). During the same period, WNV infections were reported in 202 dead crows, 48 other dead birds, 13 horses, and 69 mosquito pools.}, }
@article {pmid12174592, year = {2002}, author = {Tarskaia, LA and El'chinova, GI and Varzar', AM and Shabrova, EV}, title = {[Genetic and demographic structure of the yakut population: reproduction indices].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {38}, number = {7}, pages = {985-991}, pmid = {12174592}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Adult ; Birth Rate ; Child ; Demography ; Family Planning Services ; Female ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Male ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Rate ; *Reproduction ; Sex Ratio ; Siberia/ethnology ; }, abstract = {Genetic and demographic information for the Yakut population living in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) is presented. The mean number of children per woman constituted 4.605. Crow's index and its components (Im and If) were 0.483, 0.104, and 0.343, respectively.}, }
@article {pmid12169726, year = {2002}, author = {Weir, AA and Chappell, J and Kacelnik, A}, title = {Shaping of hooks in New Caledonian crows.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {297}, number = {5583}, pages = {981}, doi = {10.1126/science.1073433}, pmid = {12169726}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Cognition ; Female ; Male ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, }
@article {pmid12169334, year = {2002}, author = {Hayashi, M and Morikawa, T and Hori, T}, title = {Circasemidian 12 h cycle of slow wave sleep under constant darkness.}, journal = {Clinical neurophysiology : official journal of the International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology}, volume = {113}, number = {9}, pages = {1505-1516}, doi = {10.1016/s1388-2457(02)00168-2}, pmid = {12169334}, issn = {1388-2457}, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Circadian Rhythm/physiology ; *Darkness ; Electroencephalography ; Electromyography ; Electrooculography ; Humans ; Male ; *Periodicity ; Polysomnography ; Reference Values ; Sensory Deprivation/*physiology ; Sleep/*physiology ; Sleep, REM/physiology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Afternoon sleepiness is a widespread phenomenon. The present study aimed to test Broughton's hypothesis (Sleep and alertness: chronobiological, behavioral, and medical aspects of napping. New York, NY: Raven Press, 1989. p. 71-98) that afternoon sleep propensity might reflect the circasemidian 12h cycle of slow wave sleep (SWS).<br><br>METHODS: Nine subjects (21-27 year) stayed alone under constant darkness (0 lux) without social contact for 72 h. They were allowed to sleep and eat freely. Their polysomnograms during 72 h of constant darkness were analyzed.<br><br>RESULTS: The total sleep time (TST) accounted for 41.6h (57.9%) of the 72 h and decreased progressively as a function of time. The reduction in TST was dependent on the decrease in sleep stage 2 and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. The amount of SWS did not significantly change among the days. The circadian (1 cycle/day) and circasemidian (2cycles/day) cycles were observed in SWS. Those accounted for 13.9 and 11.1% of the total variance, respectively. SWS during the time corresponding to daytime occurred 9-10h before and 15-16 h after the nocturnal sleep gate. In addition, weak but significant correlations were observed between the amounts of SWS and the waking time before the sleep episodes (r=0.332) and prior REM sleep (r=-0.236).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The present findings suggest that SWS might occur not only always in a homeostatic manner as a function of prior wakefulness, but also as a circasemidian rhythmic function.}, }
@article {pmid12164299, year = {2002}, author = {Beckwith, WH and Sirpenski, S and French, RA and Nelson, R and Mayo, D}, title = {Isolation of eastern equine encephalitis virus and West Nile virus from crows during increased arbovirus surveillance in Connecticut, 2000.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {66}, number = {4}, pages = {422-426}, doi = {10.4269/ajtmh.2002.66.422}, pmid = {12164299}, issn = {0002-9637}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*virology ; Brain/virology ; Connecticut/epidemiology ; Encephalitis Virus, Eastern Equine/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Encephalomyelitis, Eastern Equine/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; Population Surveillance ; RNA, Viral/analysis/isolation &amp; purification ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Songbirds/*virology ; Virus Cultivation ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {The emergence of the West Nile virus (WNV) in the northeastern United States has drawn emphasis to the need for expanded arbovirus surveillance in Connecticut. Although the state of Connecticut began a comprehensive mosquito-screening program in 1997, only since 1999 have there been efforts to determine the prevalence of arboviruses in bird populations in this state. Herein, we report on our results of an arbovirus survey of 1,704 bird brains. Included in this report are the first known isolations of eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) from crows and data on the geographic and temporal distribution of 1,092 WNV isolations from crow species. Moreover, these nine isolations of EEEV identify regions of Connecticut where the virus is rarely found. With the exception of WNV and EEEV, no other arboviruses were isolated or detected. Taken together, these data illustrate the distribution of avian borne EEEV and WNV in 2000 and support the need for ongoing avian arbovirus surveillance in Connecticut.}, }
@article {pmid12162211, year = {2002}, author = {Fidel, JL and Cluzan, RV}, title = {[The Cognacq-Jay Hospital and its lymphology department: an original service in an unusual establishment].}, journal = {La Revue de medecine interne}, volume = {23 Suppl 3}, number = {}, pages = {442s-445s}, doi = {10.1016/s0248-8663(02)80390-3}, pmid = {12162211}, issn = {0248-8663}, mesh = {*Hospitals, Urban ; Humans ; Interprofessional Relations ; Lymphedema/*diagnosis/*therapy ; Paris ; Quality of Health Care ; }, }
@article {pmid12162206, year = {2002}, author = {Vignes, S and Champagne, A and Poisson, O}, title = {[Management of lymphedema: experience of the Cognacq-Jay Hospital].}, journal = {La Revue de medecine interne}, volume = {23 Suppl 3}, number = {}, pages = {414s-420s}, doi = {10.1016/s0248-8663(02)80385-x}, pmid = {12162206}, issn = {0248-8663}, mesh = {Adult ; Bandages ; Breast Neoplasms/complications ; Drainage ; Female ; Humans ; Lymphedema/*therapy ; Obesity/complications ; *Physical Therapy Modalities ; Pressure ; Treatment Outcome ; Weight Loss ; }, abstract = {Treatment of lymphedema includes practical advices, manual lymph drainage, bandaging, self-bandaging, elastic compression garment, skin care and physical exercises. Weight loss may be useful if obesity. Surgery is indicated in genital lymphedema more than in limb lymphedema. In 2001, in Lymphology Unit, 248 women were treated for secondary upper limb lymphedema after breast cancer. Excess of volume of lymphedema was reduced by 31.3% after a mean time of 2.1 weeks. For lower limb lymphedema (primary or secondary), 136 patients were treated with a mean reduction of excess of lymphedema by 29.8% after a mean time of 2.2 weeks. After this treatment, long term follow-up is necessary to maintain results and the motivation of the patient.}, }
@article {pmid12161839, year = {2002}, author = {Apatsidis, DP and Solomonidis, SE and Michael, SM}, title = {Pressure distribution at the seating interface of custom-molded wheelchair seats: effect of various materials.}, journal = {Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation}, volume = {83}, number = {8}, pages = {1151-1156}, doi = {10.1053/apmr.2002.33987}, pmid = {12161839}, issn = {0003-9993}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Equipment Design ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Materials Testing ; Middle Aged ; Pressure ; Pressure Ulcer/prevention &amp; control ; *Wheelchairs ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To identify which of 4 materials has the most favorable pressure distribution when used in custom-molded seats (CMSs) to assist clinicians in providing appropriate seating for wheelchair-bound individuals who are prone to develop pressure ulcers.<br><br>DESIGN: Repeated-interface pressure measurements for all materials, followed by statistical analysis.<br><br>SETTING: The general community and referral centers.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: Seven subjects, 5 with cerebral palsy, 1 with Schilder's disease, and 1 with postmeningitis effects. All subjects were seated in a CMS and had spinal deformities.<br><br>INTERVENTIONS: Viscoelastic polyurethane foams (Pudgee, Sunmate) and gels (Floam trade mark, Jay) were used as inserts in the CMSs. Evazote foam was used as a control material.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Pressure readings were taken at the seat interface with pneumatic pressure sensors and the Talley Pressure Monitor. Peak pressure readings, mean pressure ratio, and peak pressure ratio for the different materials were compared.<br><br>RESULTS: Foams, Sunmate in particular, produced lower peak-interface pressures and also showed better pressure distribution than did gels.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Foams are the preferred insert material with CMSs when increased tissue breakdown risk is present.}, }
@article {pmid12150038, year = {2002}, author = {Chappell, J and Kacelnik, A}, title = {Tool selectivity in a non-primate, the New Caledonian crow (Corvus moneduloides).}, journal = {Animal cognition}, volume = {5}, number = {2}, pages = {71-78}, doi = {10.1007/s10071-002-0130-2}, pmid = {12150038}, issn = {1435-9448}, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological ; Animals ; *Cognition ; Female ; *Learning ; Male ; Perception ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {We present an experiment showing that New Caledonian crows are able to choose tools of the appropriate size for a novel task, without trial-and-error learning. This species is almost unique amongst all animal species (together with a few primates) in the degree of use and manufacture of polymorphic tools in the wild. However, until now, the flexibility of their tool use has not been tested. Flexibility, including the ability to select an appropriate tool for a task, is considered to be a hallmark of complex cognitive adaptations for tool use. In experiment 1, we tested the ability of two captive birds (one male, one female), to select a stick (from a range of lengths provided) matching the distance to food placed in a horizontal transparent pipe. Both birds chose tools matching the distance to their target significantly more often than would be expected by chance. In experiment 2, we used a similar task, but with the tools placed out of sight of the food pipe, such that the birds had to remember the distance of the food before selecting a tool. The task was completed only by the male, who chose a tool of sufficient length significantly more often than chance but did not show a preference for a matching length.}, }
@article {pmid12141781, year = {2002}, author = {Rijsdijk, FV and Vernon, PA and Boomsma, DI}, title = {Application of hierarchical genetic models to Raven and WAIS subtests: a Dutch twin study.}, journal = {Behavior genetics}, volume = {32}, number = {3}, pages = {199-210}, doi = {10.1023/a:1016021128949}, pmid = {12141781}, issn = {0001-8244}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*genetics ; *Intelligence Tests ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; *Models, Genetic ; Phenotype ; Twins/*genetics ; *Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {Hierarchical models of intelligence are highly informative and widely accepted. Application of these models to twin data, however, is sparse. This paper addresses the question of how a genetic hierarchical model fits the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) subtests and the Raven Standard Progressive test score, collected in 194 18-year-old Dutch twin pairs. We investigated whether first-order group factors possess genetic and environmental variance independent of the higher-order general factor and whether the hierarchical structure is significant for all sources of variance. A hierarchical model with the 3 Cohen group-factors (verbal comprehension, perceptual organisation and freedom-from-distractibility) and a higher-order g factor showed the best fit to the phenotypic data and to additive genetic influences (A), whereas the unique environmental source of variance (E) could be modeled by a single general factor and specifics. There was no evidence for common environmental influences. The covariation among the WAIS group factors and the covariation between the group factors and the Raven is predominantly influenced by a second-order genetic factor and strongly support the notion of a biological basis of g.}, }
@article {pmid12110164, year = {2002}, author = {Carroll, SB}, title = {Stephen Jay Gould (1941-2002): a wonderful life.}, journal = {Developmental cell}, volume = {3}, number = {1}, pages = {21-23}, doi = {10.1016/s1534-5807(02)00207-1}, pmid = {12110164}, issn = {1534-5807}, mesh = {Biological Evolution ; Genetics/history ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Journalism, Medical/history ; Paleontology/*history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid12095448, year = {2002}, author = {Komar, N and Lanciotti, R and Bowen, R and Langevin, S and Bunning, M}, title = {Detection of West Nile virus in oral and cloacal swabs collected from bird carcasses.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {8}, number = {7}, pages = {741-742}, pmid = {12095448}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*diagnosis/*virology ; Birds/*virology ; Cloaca/*virology ; Mouth/*virology ; RNA, Viral/isolation &amp; purification ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; West Nile Fever/*diagnosis/veterinary/*virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {We evaluated if postmortem cloacal and oral swabs could replace brain tissue as a specimen for West Nile virus (WNV) detection. WNV was detected in all three specimen types from 20 dead crows and jays with an average of >10(5) WNV PFU in each. These findings suggest that testing cloacal or oral swabs might be a low-resource approach to detect WNV in dead birds.}, }
@article {pmid12094980, year = {2002}, author = {Chuang, CF and Verhey, LJ and Xia, P}, title = {Investigation of the use of MOSFET for clinical IMRT dosimetric verification.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {29}, number = {6}, pages = {1109-1115}, doi = {10.1118/1.1481520}, pmid = {12094980}, issn = {0094-2405}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation ; Humans ; Phantoms, Imaging ; Radiometry/*instrumentation/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*instrumentation/*methods ; Software ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {(Received 22 October 2001; accepted for publication 26 March 2002; published 22 May 2002) With advanced conformal radiotherapy using intensity modulated beams, it is important to have radiation dose verification measurements prior to treatment. Metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFET) have the advantage of a faster and simpler reading procedure compared to thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLD), and with the commercial MOSFET system, multiple detectors can be used simultaneously. In addition, the small size of the detector could be advantageous, especially for point dose measurements in small homogeneous dose regions. To evaluate the feasibility of MOSFET for routine IMRT dosimetry, a comprehensive set of experiments has been conducted, to investigate the stability, linearity, energy, and angular dependence. For a period of two weeks, under a standard measurement setup, the measured dose standard deviation using the MOSFETs was +/- 0.015 Gy with the mean dose being 1.00 Gy. For a measured dose range of 0.3 Gy to 4.2 Gy, the MOSFETs present a linear response, with a linearity coefficient of 0.998. Under a 10 x 10 cm2 square field, the dose variations measured by the MOSFETs for every 10 degrees from 0 to 180 degrees is +/- 2.5%. The percent depth dose (PDD) measurements were used to verify the energy dependence. The measured PDD using the MOSFETs from 0.5 cm to 34 cm depth agreed to within +/- 3% when compared to that of the ionization chamber. For IMRT dose verification, two special phantoms were designed. One is a solid water slab with 81 possible MOSFET placement holes, and another is a cylindrical phantom with 48 placement holes. For each IMRT phantom verification, an ionization chamber and 3 to 5 MOSFETs were used to measure multiple point doses at different locations. Preliminary results show that the agreement between dose measured by MOSFET and that calculated by Corvus is within 5% error, while the agreement between ionization chamber measurement and the calculation is within 3% error. In conclusion, MOSFET detectors are suitable for routine IMRT dose verification.}, }
@article {pmid12090236, year = {2002}, author = {Waples, RS}, title = {Evaluating the effect of stage-specific survivorship on the N(e)/N ratio.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {11}, number = {6}, pages = {1029-1037}, doi = {10.1046/j.1365-294x.2002.01504.x}, pmid = {12090236}, issn = {0962-1083}, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Fertility ; *Genetics, Population ; Male ; Mathematics ; Models, Biological ; Population Density ; Survival Rate ; }, abstract = {Evaluating effective population size (Ne) and the effective size to census size ratio (Ne/N) in species with Type III survivorship curves is complicated when key demographic parameters [mean (k macro) and variance (V(k)) of family size] are measured during early life stages. The method of Crow &amp; Morton (1955) for scaling demographic data collected at a juvenile stage to expected values at adulthood is extended to consider sequential episodes of random and family correlated survival. Results show the following: (i) The order in which the episodes of random and family-correlated survival occur does not affect N(e) or N(e)/N; (ii) If a population experiences an episode of family-correlated survival, N(e)/N scaled to its expected value in a population of constant size (k macro= 2) is simply the survival rate during the family-correlated stage. If multiple such stages occur, scaled N(e)/N is the product of the survivals during all family-correlated life stages; (iii) Under the assumption of random post-enumeration survival, adjusting the variance effective size to its expected value at k macro= 2 is equivalent to computing the inbreeding effective size at the earlier life stage. Application to experimental data for hatchery populations of Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) indicates that nonrandom survival during the marine phase led to estimated reductions in effective size of 0-62 (mean 19) in 12 different cohorts. This approach can provide insights into N(e)/N in highly fecund species, including some marine species in which N(e) has been estimated to be several orders of magnitude less than N.}, }
@article {pmid12082994, year = {2002}, author = {McLean, RG and Ubico, SR and Bourne, D and Komar, N}, title = {West Nile virus in livestock and wildlife.}, journal = {Current topics in microbiology and immunology}, volume = {267}, number = {}, pages = {271-308}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-642-59403-8_14}, pmid = {12082994}, issn = {0070-217X}, mesh = {Amphibians/virology ; Animals ; Animals, Domestic/*virology ; Animals, Wild/*virology ; Birds/virology ; Disease Outbreaks/veterinary ; Disease Reservoirs ; Ecosystem ; Horse Diseases/etiology ; Horses/virology ; Humans ; Insect Control ; Mammals/virology ; Population Surveillance ; Reptiles/virology ; West Nile Fever/etiology/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {WN virus is one of the most ubiquitous arboviruses occurring over a broad geographical range and in a wide diversity of vertebrate host and vector species. The virus appears to be maintained in endemic foci on the African continent and is transported annually to temperate climates to the north in Europe and to the south in South Africa. Reports of clinical disease due to natural WN virus infection in wild or domestic animals were much less common than reports of infection (virus isolation or antibody detection). Until recently, records of morbidity and mortality in wild birds were confined to a small number of cases and infections causing encephalitis, sometimes fatal, in horses were reported infrequently. In the period 1996-2001, there was an increase in outbreaks of illness due to WN virus in animals as well as humans. Within the traditional range of WN virus, encephalitis was reported in horses in Italy in 1998 and in France in 2000. The first report of disease and deaths caused by WN virus infection in domestic birds was reported in Israel in 1997-1999, involving hundreds of young geese. In 1999 WN virus reached North America and caused an outbreak of encephalitis in humans in the New York area at the same time as a number of cases of equine encephalitis and deaths in American crows and a variety of other bird species, both North American natives and exotics. Multi-state surveillance for WN virus has been in place since April 2000 and has resulted in the detection of WN virus in thousands of dead birds from an increasing number of species in North America, and also in several species of mammals. The surveillance system that has developed in North America because of the utility of testing dead birds for the rapid detection of WN virus presence has been a unique integration of public health and wildlife health agencies. It has been suggested that the recent upsurge in clinical WN virus infection in wild and domestic animals as well as in humans may be related to the emergence of one or more new strains of WN virus. Virus isolated in New York in 1999 was found to be identical to that from Israel. It was alarming for WN virus to so easily invade the United States and surprising that it became established so quickly in the temperature climate of New York. Its persistence and rapid expansion in the United States leave a number of unanswered questions. New disease characteristics and patterns have occurred and more are evolving as WN virus further invades the western hemisphere. Additional animal research is needed to answer these questions. Some of the research needs include bird migration as a mechanism of virus dispersal, vector and vertebrate host relationships, virus persistence mechanisms, laboratory diagnosis, viral pathogenesis, risk factor studies, vaccine development, and WN virus impact on wildlife (CDC 2001a). Determination of the primary reservoir host species that are involved in the epidemiology of WN virus and the suitable sentinel species for active surveillance are also important research areas.}, }
@article {pmid12079661, year = {2002}, author = {Ruegg, KC and Smith, TB}, title = {Not as the crow flies: a historical explanation for circuitous migration in Swainson's thrush (Catharus ustulatus).}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {269}, number = {1498}, pages = {1375-1381}, pmid = {12079661}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {*Animal Migration ; Animals ; Biological Evolution ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; Female ; *Flight, Animal ; Haplotypes/genetics ; Male ; North America ; Phylogeny ; Population Dynamics ; Seasons ; Songbirds/*genetics/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Many migratory songbirds follow circuitous migratory routes instead of taking the shortest path between overwintering and breeding areas. Here, we study the migration patterns in Swainson's thrush (Catharus ustulatus), a neartic-neotropical migrant songbird, using molecular genetic approaches. This species is presently separated into genetically distinct coastal and continental populations that diverged during the Late Pleistocene (as indicated by molecular dating), yet appear to have retained ancestral patterns of migration. Low nucleotide diversity, a star-like haplotype phylogeny and unimodal mismatch distributions all support the hypothesis that both the coastal and the continental populations have undergone recent demographic expansions. Nearctic-neotropical banding and genetic data show nearly complete segregation of migratory routes and of overwintering locations: coastal populations migrate along the Pacific Coast to overwintering sites in Central America and Mexico, whereas continental populations migrate along an eastern route to overwintering sites in Panama and South America. Nearctic-neotropical banding data also show that continental birds north, northwest and east of this migratory divide fly thousands of miles east before turning south. We conclude that circuitous migration in the Swainson's thrush is an artefact of a Late Pleistocene range expansion.}, }
@article {pmid12068751, year = {2002}, author = {Matsuda, M and Shibuya, T and Itoh, Y and Takiguchi, M and Furuhata, K and Moore, JE and Murayama, O and Fukuyama, M}, title = {First isolation of urease-positive thermophilic Campylobacter (UPTC) from crows (Corvus levaillantii) in Japan.}, journal = {International journal of hygiene and environmental health}, volume = {205}, number = {4}, pages = {321-324}, doi = {10.1078/1438-4639-00157}, pmid = {12068751}, issn = {1438-4639}, mesh = {Animals ; Campylobacter/enzymology/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; DNA/analysis ; Digestive System/microbiology ; Electrophoresis, Gel, Pulsed-Field ; Japan ; Songbirds/*microbiology ; Urease ; }, abstract = {Two strains of urease-positive thermophilic Campylobacter (UPTC), designated YC98-1 and YC98-2, were identified by biochemical characterization after isolation from the intestinal contents of crows around Yokohama City, Japan, in 1998. The biochemical characteristics of these strains were identical to those of strains described previously. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) after separate digestion with ApaI, SalI, and SmaI of the genomic DNA from the two strains indicated that respective PFGE profiles were distinctly different and distinguishable from each other. This is the first report of the isolation of UPTC from crows (Corvus levaillantii).}, }
@article {pmid12066322, year = {2002}, author = {Adler, J}, title = {Evolution's revolutionary. Stephen Jay Gould, paleontologist: 1941-2002.}, journal = {Newsweek}, volume = {139}, number = {22}, pages = {59}, pmid = {12066322}, issn = {0028-9604}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; *Paleontology ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid12065825, year = {2002}, author = {Fortey, RA}, title = {Evolution: retrospective. Stephen Jay Gould (1941-2002).}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {296}, number = {5575}, pages = {1984}, doi = {10.1126/science.1074307}, pmid = {12065825}, issn = {1095-9203}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Books ; Developmental Biology/history ; Fossils ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Paleontology/history ; United States ; Writing ; }, }
@article {pmid12065112, year = {2002}, author = {Linthout, N and Verellen, D and Van Acker, S and Van de Vondel, I and Coppens, L and Storme, G}, title = {Assessment of the acceptability of the Elekta multileaf collimator (MLC) within the Corvus planning system for static and dynamic delivery of intensity modulated beams (IMBs).}, journal = {Radiotherapy and oncology : journal of the European Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology}, volume = {63}, number = {1}, pages = {121-124}, doi = {10.1016/s0167-8140(02)00031-2}, pmid = {12065112}, issn = {0167-8140}, mesh = {Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/instrumentation/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/instrumentation/*methods ; Software ; }, abstract = {The sliding window technique used for static and dynamic segmentation of intensity modulated beams is evaluated. Dynamic delivery is preferred since the resulting distributions correspond better with the calculated distributions, the treatment beam is used more efficiently and the delivery is less sensitive to small variations in the accuracy of the multileaf collimator (MLC).}, }
@article {pmid12065041, year = {2002}, author = {Baglione, V and Canestrari, D and Marcos, JM and Griesser, M and Ekman, J}, title = {History, environment and social behaviour: experimentally induced cooperative breeding in the carrion crow.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {269}, number = {1497}, pages = {1247-1251}, pmid = {12065041}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Breeding ; *Cooperative Behavior ; *Environment ; Female ; Male ; *Phylogeny ; *Reproduction ; Sexual Behavior, Animal ; Social Behavior ; Songbirds/genetics/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Kin-based cooperative breeding, where grown offspring delay natal dispersal and help their parents to rear new young, has a long history in some avian lineages. Family formation and helping behaviour in extant populations may therefore simply represent the retention of ancestral features, tolerated under current conditions, rather than a current adaptive process driven by environmental factors. Separating these two possibilities challenges evolutionary biologists because of the tight coupling that normally exists between phylogeny and the environmental distribution of species and populations. The carrion crow Corvus corone corone, which exhibits extreme interpopulational variation in the extent of cooperative breeding, with populations showing no delayed dispersal and helping at all, provides a unique opportunity for an experimental approach. Here we show that offspring of non-cooperative carrion crows from Switzerland will remain on the natal territory and express helping behaviour when raised in a cooperative population in Spain. When we transferred carrion crow eggs from Switzerland to Spain, five out of six transplanted juveniles delayed dispersal, and two of those became helpers in the following breeding season. Our results provide compelling experimental evidence of the causal relationship between current environmental conditions and expression of cooperative behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid12063012, year = {2002}, author = {Meeks, SL and Paulino, AC and Pennington, EC and Simon, JH and Skwarchuk, MW and Buatti, JM}, title = {In vivo determination of extra-target doses received from serial tomotherapy.}, journal = {Radiotherapy and oncology : journal of the European Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology}, volume = {63}, number = {2}, pages = {217-222}, doi = {10.1016/s0167-8140(02)00074-9}, pmid = {12063012}, issn = {0167-8140}, mesh = {Gonads/*radiation effects ; Head and Neck Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Humans ; Particle Accelerators ; Radiation Dosage ; Radiometry ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; *Radiotherapy, Computer-Assisted ; *Radiotherapy, High-Energy ; Sternum/*radiation effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to perform in-vivo measurements of extracranial doses received by patients undergoing serial tomotherapy of the head and neck.<br><br>MATERIAL AND METHODS: Intensity modulated radiotherapy treatment (IMRT) plans were designed for nine patients using the CORVUS treatment planning system (NOMOS Corp.). These plans were delivered using a tertiary collimator dedicated for serial tomotherapy attached to a 10-MV linear accelerator. For each patient, one optically stimulated luminescence dosimeter (OSLD) was placed on the sternum and one on the lower abdomen. The OSLDs were then processed, thereby estimating the in vivo absorbed doses to the sternum and gonads as a function of distance from the treatment site.<br><br>RESULTS: The OSLDs were shown to measure known doses to within 5%, thereby validating their accuracy for this dose and energy range. In the patient studies, the dose received by the OSLDs varied in direct proportion to the number of monitor units delivered and inversely with the distance from the target volume; the patient dose at a distance of 15 cm from the target is approximately 0.4% of the total monitor units delivered, and drops to below 0.1% of the total MUs at approximately 40 cm from the center of the target. The average sternal dose was 1353 mSv and the average abdominal dose was 327 mSv for an average prescribed dose of 60.1 Gy. This can be attributed, at least partially, to the inefficient treatment delivery that on average required 9.9 MU/0.01 Gy.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: While IMRT reduces the normal tissue volume in the high-dose region, it also increases the overall monitor units delivered, and hence the whole-body dose, when compared with conventional treatment delivery. As has been noted in existing literature, these increases in whole-body dose from radiotherapy delivery may increase the likelihood of a radiation-induced secondary malignancy. Therefore, it is important to assess the risk of secondary malignancies from IMRT delivery, and compare this relative risk against the potential benefits of decreased normal tissue complication probabilities.}, }
@article {pmid12059725, year = {2002}, author = {Mookherjea, S and Yariv, A}, title = {Pulse propagation in a coupled resonator optical waveguide to all orders of dispersion.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {65}, number = {5 Pt 2}, pages = {056601}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.65.056601}, pmid = {12059725}, issn = {1539-3755}, abstract = {In studying the propagation of optical pulses beyond the linear dispersion approximation, the conventional term-by-term Taylor series expansion of the waveguide dispersion relationship fails when applied to the recently introduced family of coupled resonator optical waveguides (CROWs). We have found the surprising result that retaining the complete form of the dispersion relationship in the tight-binding approximation does in fact lead to a closed form analytical solution, clearly highlighting the role of the various phenomenological factors. Such an analysis is usually not possible in the majority of waveguiding structures and is especially useful in the design of photonic crystal CROWs and deep superstructure Bragg gratings.}, }
@article {pmid12057549, year = {2002}, author = {Altman, D and Carroli, G and Duley, L and Farrell, B and Moodley, J and Neilson, J and Smith, D and , }, title = {Do women with pre-eclampsia, and their babies, benefit from magnesium sulphate? The Magpie Trial: a randomised placebo-controlled trial.}, journal = {Lancet (London, England)}, volume = {359}, number = {9321}, pages = {1877-1890}, doi = {10.1016/s0140-6736(02)08778-0}, pmid = {12057549}, issn = {0140-6736}, mesh = {Anticonvulsants/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Blood Pressure ; Cause of Death ; Female ; *Fetal Death ; Gestational Age ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; Magnesium Sulfate/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Maternal Mortality ; Pre-Eclampsia/diagnosis/drug therapy/*prevention &amp; control ; Pregnancy ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Anticonvulsants are used for pre-eclampsia in the belief they prevent eclamptic convulsions, and so improve outcome. Evidence supported magnesium sulphate as the drug to evaluate.<br><br>METHODS: Eligible women (n=10141) had not given birth or were 24 h or less postpartum; blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg or more, and proteinuria of 1+ (30 mg/dL) or more; and there was clinical uncertainty about magnesium sulphate. Women were randomised in 33 countries to either magnesium sulphate (n=5071) or placebo (n=5070). Primary outcomes were eclampsia and, for women randomised before delivery, death of the baby. Follow up was until discharge from hospital after delivery. Analyses were by intention to treat.<br><br>FINDINGS: Follow-up data were available for 10,110 (99.7%) women, 9992 (99%) of whom received the allocated treatment. 1201 of 4999 (24%) women given magnesium sulphate reported side-effects versus 228 of 4993 (5%) given placebo. Women allocated magnesium sulphate had a 58% lower risk of eclampsia (95% CI 40-71) than those allocated placebo (40, 0.8%, vs 96, 1.9%; 11 fewer women with eclampsia per 1000 women). Maternal mortality was also lower among women allocated magnesium sulphate (relative risk 0.55, 0.26-1.14). For women randomised before delivery, there was no clear difference in the risk of the baby dying (576, 12.7%, vs 558, 12.4%; relative risk 1.02, 99% CI 0.92-1.14). The only notable difference in maternal or neonatal morbidity was for placental abruption (relative risk 0.67, 99% CI 0.45-0.89).<br><br>INTERPRETATION: Magnesium sulphate halves the risk of eclampsia, and probably reduces the risk of maternal death. There do not appear to be substantive harmful effects to mother or baby in the short term.}, }
@article {pmid12048598, year = {2002}, author = {Santos, DN and Borges, AP and Pereira, PS and Chalhub, AA and Happe, F and Silva, RC and Assis, AM and Blanton, RE and Parraga, IM and Reis, MG and Almeida Filho, NM and Barreto, ML}, title = {[Epidemiology of schoolchildren's cognitive development in Jequié, Bahia State, Brazil: assessment procedures and general results].}, journal = {Cadernos de saude publica}, volume = {18}, number = {3}, pages = {723-733}, pmid = {12048598}, issn = {0102-311X}, mesh = {*Achievement ; Adolescent/*physiology ; Brazil ; Child ; *Child Development ; Educational Measurement ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/standards ; Male ; Psychological Tests/standards ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; *Teaching ; }, abstract = {This paper describes the methodology, applicability and utility of the Raven Progressive Matrix (Raven Test) and the Brazilian Intellectual Probe (TSI), comparing them with school achievement in a typical medium-size urban community of Northeastern Brazil. 388 schoolchildren (7-17 years old) were examined, with 371 Raven tests applied. Only 231 TSIs were completed, since 106 students were illiterate. School grades were obtained for all participants. A questionnaire evaluating school resources, and teacher profiles was answered by 200 teachers. Raven and TSI test scores were highly correlated (r = 0.53, p < 0.001), but both correlated weakly with overall school grade (r = 0.22, p < 0.001 and r = 0.12, p < 0.07 respectively). For individual school grades, the Raven scores showed statistically significant correlation with all subjects, while the Brazilian TSI presented statistically significant correlation only with geography, history and sciences. Boys' mean scores were higher than girls' for both the Raven and the TSI Tests, but for the school grades girls performed better. In general, level of cognitive development was below that expected for children in the age-group analyzed.}, }
@article {pmid12048149, year = {2002}, author = {Wilder-Willis, KE and Shear, PK and Steffen, JJ and Borkin, J}, title = {The relationship between cognitive dysfunction and coping abilities in schizophrenia.}, journal = {Schizophrenia research}, volume = {55}, number = {3}, pages = {259-267}, doi = {10.1016/s0920-9964(01)00211-0}, pmid = {12048149}, issn = {0920-9964}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Psychological ; Adult ; Aged ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Multivariate Analysis ; Regression Analysis ; Schizophrenia/*complications/rehabilitation ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; }, abstract = {Cognitive dysfunction is a core feature of schizophrenia [Psychiatr. Clin. North Am., 16 (1993) 295; Psychopharmacology: The fourth generation of progress, Raven Press, New York (1995) 1171; Clinical Neuropsychology, Oxford University Press, New York (1993) 449] and is related to psychosocial functioning in this population [Am. J. Psychiatry, 153 (1996) 321]. It is unclear whether cognitive dysfunction is related to specific areas of functioning in schizophrenia, such as coping abilities. Individuals with schizophrenia have deficient coping skills, which may contribute to their difficulties dealing with stressors [Am. J. Orthopsychiatry, 62 (1992) 117; J. Abnorm. Psychol., 82 (1986) 189]. The current study examined the relationship between coping abilities and cognitive dysfunction in a community sample of individuals with schizophrenia. It was hypothesized that executive dysfunction and mnemonic impairments would be positively related to deficiencies in active coping efforts involving problem solving and self-initiation (e.g. advocating for oneself and others with mental illness and becoming involved in meaningful activities, such as work), independent of the contributions of the general intellectual deficits associated with the disorder and psychiatric symptoms. The results indicated that both executive dysfunction and mnemonic impairments were related to decreased usage of active coping mechanisms after controlling for general intellectual deficits. Further, recognition memory made independent contributions to the prediction of coping involving action and help seeking after controlling for the effects of negative symptoms. These findings suggest that individuals with schizophrenia may be less flexible in their use of coping strategies, which may in turn contribute to their difficulties in coping with mental illness and its consequences.}, }
@article {pmid12043212, year = {2002}, author = {Saito, K and Nakase, K and Shimura, M and Wakita, Y and Minamikawa, K and Yamaguchi, T and Shiku, H}, title = {[Successful treatment of Crow-Fukase syndrome with radiation therapy].}, journal = {[Rinsho ketsueki] The Japanese journal of clinical hematology}, volume = {43}, number = {4}, pages = {298-300}, pmid = {12043212}, issn = {0485-1439}, mesh = {Aged ; Female ; Humans ; POEMS Syndrome/pathology/*radiotherapy ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; }, abstract = {A 73-year-old woman was referred to our hospital because of gait disturbance. She had peripheral polyneuropathy which was mainly of the demyelinating type, splenomegaly, a skin change and M protein (IgA-lambda). A bone scinti and a CT scan showed a mass lesion in the thoracic vertebra, and a biopsy revealed plasmacytoma. She was diagnosed as Crow-Fukase syndrome, and treated with local radiation therapy. After the treatment, M protein became undetectable, and gait disturbance was improved.}, }
@article {pmid12037058, year = {2002}, author = {Hunt, AR and Hall, RA and Kerst, AJ and Nasci, RS and Savage, HM and Panella, NA and Gottfried, KL and Burkhalter, KL and Roehrig, JT}, title = {Detection of West Nile virus antigen in mosquitoes and avian tissues by a monoclonal antibody-based capture enzyme immunoassay.}, journal = {Journal of clinical microbiology}, volume = {40}, number = {6}, pages = {2023-2030}, pmid = {12037058}, issn = {0095-1137}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/immunology ; Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; Antigens, Viral/*analysis ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Culicidae/*virology ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay/*methods ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Songbirds/virology ; West Nile Fever/diagnosis/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {An antigen capture immunoassay to detect West Nile (WN) virus antigen in infected mosquitoes and avian tissues has been developed. With this assay purified WN virus was detected at a concentration of 32 pg/0.1 ml, and antigen in infected suckling mouse brain and laboratory-infected mosquito pools could be detected when the WN virus titer was 10(2.1) to 10(3.7) PFU/0.1 ml. In a blindly coded set of field-collected mosquito pools (n = 100), this assay detected WN virus antigen in 12 of 18 (66.7%) TaqMan-positive pools, whereas traditional reverse transcriptase PCR detected 10 of 18 (55.5%) positive pools. A sample set of 73 organ homogenates from naturally infected American crows was also examined by WN virus antigen capture immunoassay and TaqMan for the presence of WN virus. The antigen capture assay detected antigen in 30 of 34 (88.2%) TaqMan-positive tissues. Based upon a TaqMan-generated standard curve of infectious WN virus, the limit of detection in the antigen capture assay for avian tissue homogenates was approximately 10(3) PFU/0.1 ml. The recommended WN virus antigen capture protocol, which includes a capture assay followed by a confirmatory inhibition assay used to retest presumptive positive samples, could distinguish between the closely related WN and St. Louis encephalitis viruses in virus-infected mosquito pools and avian tissues. Therefore, this immunoassay demonstrates adequate sensitivity and specificity for surveillance of WN virus activity in mosquito vectors and avian hosts, and, in addition, it is easy to perform and relatively inexpensive compared with the TaqMan assay.}, }
@article {pmid12023150, year = {2002}, author = {Yu, CX and Li, XA and Ma, L and Chen, D and Naqvi, S and Shepard, D and Sarfaraz, M and Holmes, TW and Suntharalingam, M and Mansfield, CM}, title = {Clinical implementation of intensity-modulated arc therapy.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {53}, number = {2}, pages = {453-463}, doi = {10.1016/s0360-3016(02)02777-3}, pmid = {12023150}, issn = {0360-3016}, support = {R29CA66075/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Brain Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Feasibility Studies ; Film Dosimetry ; Head and Neck Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Humans ; Male ; Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Phantoms, Imaging ; Prostatic Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/instrumentation/*methods ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: Intensity-modulated arc therapy (IMAT) is a method for delivering intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) using rotational beams. During delivery, the field shape, formed by a multileaf collimator (MLC), changes constantly. The objectives of this study were to (1) clinically implement the IMAT technique, and (2) evaluate the dosimetry in comparison with conventional three-dimensional (3D) conformal techniques.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: Forward planning with a commercial system (RenderPlan 3D, Precision Therapy International, Inc., Norcross, GA) was used for IMAT planning. Arcs were approximated as multiple shaped fields spaced every 5-10 degrees around the patient. The number and ranges of the arcs were chosen manually. Multiple coplanar, superimposing arcs or noncoplanar arcs with or without a wedge were allowed. For comparison, conventional 3D conformal treatment plans were generated with the same commercial forward planning system as for IMAT. Intensity-modulated treatment plans were also created with a commercial inverse planning system (CORVUS, Nomos Corporation). A leaf-sequencing program was developed to generate the dynamic MLC prescriptions. IMAT treatment delivery was accomplished by programming the linear accelerator (linac) to deliver an arc and the MLC to step through a sequence of fields. Both gantry rotation and leaf motion were enslaved to the delivered MUs. Dosimetric accuracy of the entire process was verified with phantoms before IMAT was used clinically. For each IMAT treatment, a dry run was performed to assess the geometric and dosimetric accuracy. Both the central axis dose and dose distributions were measured and compared with predictions by the planning system.<br><br>RESULTS: By the end of May 2001, 50 patients had completed their treatments with the IMAT technique. Two to five arcs were needed to achieve highly conformal dose distributions. The IMAT plans provided better dose uniformity in the target and lower doses to normal structures than 3D conformal plans. The results varied when the comparison was made with fixed gantry IMRT. In general, IMAT plans provided more uniform dose distributions in the target, whereas the inverse-planned fixed gantry treatments had greater flexibility in controlling dose to the critical structures. Because the field sizes and shapes used in the IMAT were similar to those used in conventional treatments, the dosimetric uncertainty was very small. Of the first 32 patients treated, the average difference between the measured and predicted doses was -0.54 +/- 1.72% at isocenter. The 80%-95% isodose contours measured with film dosimetry matched those predicted by the planning system to within 2 mm. The planning time for IMAT was slightly longer than for generating conventional 3D conformal plans. However, because of the need to create phantom plans for the dry run, the overall planning time was doubled. The average time a patient spent on the table for IMAT treatment was similar to conventional treatments.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Initial results demonstrated the feasibility and accuracy of IMAT for achieving highly conformal dose distributions for different sites. If treatment plans can be optimized for IMAT cone beam delivery, we expect IMAT to achieve dose distributions that rival both slice-based and fixed-field IMRT techniques. The efficient delivery with existing linac and MLC makes IMAT a practical choice.}, }
@article {pmid12013662, year = {2002}, author = {Smirnova, AA and Lazareva, OF and Zorina, ZA}, title = {[Prototype symbolization in hooded crows].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {52}, number = {2}, pages = {241-254}, pmid = {12013662}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {*Animal Communication ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The ability in prototype symbolization was studied in four crows trained in matching concept. The experimental approach was characterized by the absence of direct training providing an association between the pictured arrays and Arabic numerals. Experimental sessions were divided into demonstrative and test phases. In the demonstrative phases, the sample and the reinforced stimulus belonged to the same category: if the sample was a pictured array, the reinforced stimulus was also the pictured array, if the sample was a numeral, the reinforced stimulus was likewise a numeral. Matching-to-sample competence was sufficient to perform this task successfully. In case of a correct choice a crow received some mealworms, their number was equal to the number of items in the pictured array or the Arabic numeral. In the test phases, the sample and the comparison stimuli were of different categories. If the sample was a pictured array, the comparison stimuli were numerals; if the sample was a numeral, the comparisons were the pictured arrays. Such tests required the birds to choose a numeric symbol corresponding to the pictured array or to choose the array of pictured items numerically equal to the Arabic symbol. All four crows performed this task successfully. Birds were able to set up a correspondence between the Arabic numeral from 1 to 4 and the number of elements in pictured arrays by way of mental juxtaposition of the earlier received information. Similar experiments showed that crows are likely to be able to perform mental operations with numerals analogous to simple arithmetic addition.}, }
@article {pmid11993185, year = {2001}, author = {Shibuya, S and Aihara, N and Tsukamoto, T and Itoyama, Y}, title = {[A case of polyneuropathy associated with increased levels of vascular endotherial growth factor (VEGF) insera].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {41}, number = {10}, pages = {665-667}, pmid = {11993185}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Endothelial Growth Factors/*blood ; Female ; Humans ; Lymphokines/*blood ; Middle Aged ; Polyneuropathies/*blood ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors ; }, abstract = {A 54-year-old woman began to notice numbness and motor weakness in the lower extremities in July 1999. These symptoms rapidly progressed and she could not walk any more. When she admitted to our hospital, she showed peripherally dominant, moderate motor weakness, drop foot and loss of superficial and deep sensation in the lower extremities, but only slight weakness in the hands. Cranial nerves were intact. Deep tendon reflexes were all absent. Nerve conduction velocities were reduced and cerebrospinal fluid protein was elevated. VEGF was greatly increased in serum (1,850 pg/ml), which has been found to be increased exclusively in patients with Crow-Fukase syndrome. Many characteristic manifestations of the syndrome except polyneuropathy are well explained to be resulted from the abnormal production of VEGF. She did not, however, exhibit any constellation of Crow-Fukase syndrome such as edema, skin change, organomegaly, bone lesions or M-proteinemia. Steroid therapy improved her symptoms and lessened the levels of serum VEGF and cerebrospinal fluid protein. This case indicated that overproduction of VEGF could induce polyneuropathy rather than the other symptoms of Crow-Fukase syndrome, and that a polyneuropathy associated with increased VEGF might exist.}, }
@article {pmid11976166, year = {2002}, author = {Duthie, SJ and Whalley, LJ and Collins, AR and Leaper, S and Berger, K and Deary, IJ}, title = {Homocysteine, B vitamin status, and cognitive function in the elderly.}, journal = {The American journal of clinical nutrition}, volume = {75}, number = {5}, pages = {908-913}, doi = {10.1093/ajcn/75.5.908}, pmid = {11976166}, issn = {0002-9165}, mesh = {Aged ; Aging/*blood/*psychology ; *Cognition ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Folic Acid/*blood ; Homocysteine/*blood ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Psychological Tests ; Vitamin B 12/*blood ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Old age is associated with reduced cognitive performance. Nutritional factors may contribute to this association.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: We tested associations between cognitive performance and plasma vitamin B-12, folate, and homocysteine concentrations in the elderly.<br><br>DESIGN: We studied survivors of the Scottish Mental Surveys of 1932 (Aberdeen 1921 Birth Cohort, or ABC21) and 1947 (Aberdeen 1936 Birth Cohort, or ABC36), which surveyed childhood intelligence quotient. We measured folate, vitamin B-12, and homocysteine concentrations in fasting blood samples and cognitive performance by the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), National Adult Reading Test (NART), Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM), Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT), digit symbol (DS) subtest, and block design (BD) subtest.<br><br>RESULTS: Homocysteine was higher in the ABC21 than in the ABC36 (P < 0.0001). There were positive correlations between folate and vitamin B-12 and negative correlations between homocysteine and both folate and vitamin B-12. MMSE, RPM, AVLT, DS, and BD scores were higher in the ABC36. In the ABC21, folate, vitamin B-12, and MMSE score were positively correlated and homocysteine was negatively correlated with RPM, DS, and BD scores. Folic acid was positively correlated with AVLT and DS scores. In the ABC36, folate was positively correlated with BD score. After adjustment for childhood intelligence quotient, partial correlations were strengthened between vitamin B-12 and NART score and between homocysteine and RPM score but weakened between red blood cell folate and DS score.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: B vitamins and homocysteine are associated with cognitive variation in old age. In the ABC21 but not the ABC36, homocysteine accounted for approximately 7-8% of the variance in cognitive performance. This may prove relevant to the design of neuroprotective studies in late life.}, }
@article {pmid11971771, year = {2002}, author = {Bunning, ML and Bowen, RA and Cropp, CB and Sullivan, KG and Davis, BS and Komar, N and Godsey, MS and Baker, D and Hettler, DL and Holmes, DA and Biggerstaff, BJ and Mitchell, CJ}, title = {Experimental infection of horses with West Nile virus.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {8}, number = {4}, pages = {380-386}, pmid = {11971771}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Aedes/physiology/virology ; Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood/immunology ; Bird Diseases/virology ; Brain/virology ; Chlorocebus aethiops ; Female ; Horse Diseases/blood/immunology/transmission/virology ; Horses/blood/immunology/*virology ; Insect Vectors/physiology/virology ; Male ; Saliva/immunology/virology ; Songbirds/virology ; Vero Cells ; Viremia/blood/immunology/transmission/virology ; West Nile Fever/blood/immunology/*transmission/virology ; West Nile virus/immunology/*physiology ; }, abstract = {A total of 12 horses of different breeds and ages were infected with West Nile virus (WNV) via the bites of infected Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. Half the horses were infected with a viral isolate from the brain of a horse (BC787), and half were infected with an isolate from crow brain (NY99-6625); both were NY99 isolates. Postinfection, uninfected female Ae. albopictus fed on eight of the infected horses. In the first trial, Nt antibody titers reached >1:320, 1:20, 1:160, and 1:80 for horses 1 to 4, respectively. In the second trial, the seven horses with subclinical infections developed Nt antibody titers >1:10 between days 7 and 11 post infection. The highest viremia level in horses fed upon by the recipient mosquitoes was approximately 460 Vero cell PFU/mL. All mosquitoes that fed upon viremic horses were negative for the virus. Horses infected with the NY99 strain of WNV develop low viremia levels of short duration; therefore, infected horses are unlikely to serve as important amplifying hosts for WNV in nature.}, }
@article {pmid11962141, year = {2002}, author = {Galloro, V}, title = {Unexpected turn of events. After a five-year battle, an appeals court overturns the fraud convictions of two former Columbia/HCA executives.}, journal = {Modern healthcare}, volume = {32}, number = {13}, pages = {6-7, 16, 1}, pmid = {11962141}, issn = {0160-7480}, mesh = {Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, U.S. ; Disclosure ; Florida ; Fraud/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Hospital Administrators/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Hospitals, Proprietary/economics/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Medicare/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; United States ; }, abstract = {For former Columbia/HCA executives Jay Jarrell and Robert Whiteside, the overturning of their 1999 fraud convictions was a get-out-of-jail-free card. A federal appeals court ruled that the government didn't prove its case against them and that the rules they were meant to follow were confusing. And if the government didn't prove its case here, what does this judgment mean for other fraud cases?}, }
@article {pmid11953204, year = {2002}, author = {Liu, Y and Wang, Y}, title = {[Cognitive functions of children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder].}, journal = {Zhonghua yi xue za zhi}, volume = {82}, number = {6}, pages = {389-392}, pmid = {11953204}, issn = {0376-2491}, mesh = {Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*psychology ; Child ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Memory ; Task Performance and Analysis ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate the features of cognitive function in children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).<br><br>METHODS: Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-RC, Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS), Number Cancellation Test, Ravin's Standard Progressive Matrices, and Stroop test were conducted among 60 7 approximately 12-year-old children diagnosed with ADHD and 60 children matched by age, sex, and maternal education level.<br><br>RESULTS: The verbal intelligence quotient, performance IQ, full scale IQ, verbal comprehension IQ, perceptual organization IQ, and freedom from distractibility IQ of the ADHD CHILDREN were 104 +/- 13, 98 +/- 14, 102 +/- 13, 100 +/- 15, and 102 +/- 15, all less than those of the controls (112 +/- 11, 108 +/- 13, 112 +/- 12, 111 +/- 12, 107 +/- 13, and 116 +/- 13, all P < 0.01). The scores of long-term memory, short-term memory, immediate memory, memory quotient, and reverse digit span in the children with ADHD were 40 +/- 7, 58 +/- 12, 7 +/- 3, 95 +/- 15, and 4.2 +/- 1.7 respectively, all less than those in the controls (49 +/- 5, 63 +/- 10, 8.4 +/- 3.0, 109 +/- 12.5, and 5.0 +/- 1.4 respectively, all P < 0.05). Number cancellation test showed significantly lower total score and higher error rate in ADHD children than in the controls (51.5 and 76.4 VS 77.3 and 38.0, both P = 0.000). In Stroop test, the ADHD children spent more time for all the four parts, had to make more effort to eliminate the interference of word meaning, and made more errors in the C and D parts. The average standard score of Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices was 4.0 +/- 1.5, significantly higher than that in the controls (2.7 +/- 1.2, P = 0.000).<br><br>CONCLUSION: The levels of intelligence, memory, and attention in ADHD children are lower that those in normal children. ADHD children have deficiency in executive functions, such as selective inhibition, working memory and plan implementation.}, }
@article {pmid11950154, year = {2001}, author = {Reeves, JT and Weil, JV}, title = {Chronic mountain sickness. A view from the crow's nest.}, journal = {Advances in experimental medicine and biology}, volume = {502}, number = {}, pages = {419-437}, pmid = {11950154}, issn = {0065-2598}, mesh = {Altitude ; Altitude Sickness/metabolism/*physiopathology ; Arteries/metabolism ; Brain/physiopathology ; Chronic Disease ; Female ; Hematopoiesis ; Hemoglobins/metabolism ; Humans ; Lung/blood supply ; Male ; Oxygen/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Chronic mountain sickness (CMS) is a poorly understood syndrome, characterized by hypoxemia and polycythemia and occurring in persons residing at high altitude. To better characterize the disorder, we have reviewed measurements in more than 750 men and 200 women living at altitude as published and as submitted by colleagues. In men, blood hemoglobin concentration (Hb) and arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) related to altitude (r=0.72). There was greater variability in both SaO2 and hemoglobin above than below 3000 m, largely due to inter-individual variations in effective ventilation. For the entire cohort, a linear relationship (r=0.72) of an index of hematopoietic response (Hb) to an index of stimulus (SaO2) was independent of age, altitude, duration of altitude residence greater than one year, ethnic origin, geographic location, presence or absence of CMS and nearly independent of gender. A potentially important and usually unrecognized variation in the hypoxic stimulus was desaturation during sleep. Contributions to variation in response include ingested toxins, such as cobalt, and nutritional deficiencies, including iron. Pulmonary hypertension was related to chronic hypoxia, with an uncertain contribution from polycythemia. In CMS there were profound hypoxemia at night, decrease in cerebral blood flow, and loss of cerebral blood flow regulation, possibly causing the cerebral symptoms. We speculate that the relationship of Hb to SaO2 is more useful than of hemoglobin to altitude, that hypoventilation awake and asleep are the primary causes accentuating altitude-hypoxia, and that the brain is the primary target organ in the disorder.}, }
@article {pmid11944836, year = {2002}, author = {Staples, JK and Krall, BS and Bartelt, RJ and Whitman, DW}, title = {Chemical defense in the plant bug Lopidea robiniae (Uhler).}, journal = {Journal of chemical ecology}, volume = {28}, number = {3}, pages = {601-615}, pmid = {11944836}, issn = {0098-0331}, mesh = {Alcohols/isolation &amp; purification/pharmacology ; Aldehydes/isolation &amp; purification/pharmacology ; Animals ; *Avoidance Learning ; *Birds ; Exocrine Glands ; Female ; Heteroptera/*chemistry/*physiology ; Male ; Odorants ; Predatory Behavior ; }, abstract = {Secretions from the metathoracic glands (MTG) of the black locust bug, Lopidea robiniae (Uhler) (Heteroptera: Miridae) contained six major compounds, including (E)-2-hexenal, (E)-2-hexen-1-ol, (E)-2-octenal, (E)-2-octen-1-ol (E)-2-heptenal, and (Z)-3-octen-1-ol. Males and females did not differ significantly in the relative compositions of identified compounds. In feeding trials, six bird species [robin (Turdus migratorious), blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata), brown thrasher (Toxostoma rufum), killdeer (Charadrius vociferus), starling (Sturnus vulgaris), and house wren (Troglodytes aedon)] demonstrated feeding aversions towards L. robiniae implying that black locust bugs are chemically defended. Bugs discharged the liquid contents of their MTG when attacked, thereby producing a strong and distinct odor. Some birds immediately ejected bugs out of their mouth after biting them, suggesting that the MTG secretion was a deterrent.}, }
@article {pmid11944061, year = {2002}, author = {Hodoscek, M and Borstnik, U and Janezic, D}, title = {CROW for large scale macromolecular simulations.}, journal = {Cellular &amp; molecular biology letters}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {118-119}, pmid = {11944061}, issn = {1425-8153}, mesh = {Computational Biology/*instrumentation ; Computer Systems/*economics ; Models, Molecular ; }, abstract = {CROW (Columns and Rows Of Workstations - http://www.sicmm.org/crow/) is a parallel computer cluster based on the Beowulf (http://www.beowulf.org/) idea, modified to support a larger number of processors. Its architecture is based on point-to-point network architecture, which does not require the use of any network switching equipment in the system. Thus, the cost is lower, and there is no degradation in network performance even for a larger number of processors.}, }
@article {pmid11942767, year = {2002}, author = {Choo, HY and Lee, DW and Park, JW and Kaya, HK and Smitley, DR and Lee, SM and Choo, YM}, title = {Life history and spatial distribution of Oriental beetle (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) in golf courses in Korea.}, journal = {Journal of economic entomology}, volume = {95}, number = {1}, pages = {72-80}, doi = {10.1603/0022-0493-95.1.72}, pmid = {11942767}, issn = {0022-0493}, mesh = {Animals ; Coleoptera/*physiology ; Demography ; Ecosystem ; Female ; Golf ; Korea ; Larva ; Male ; Population Density ; Time Factors ; Trees ; }, abstract = {Larval and adult activity of the oriental beetle Exomala orientalis (Waterhouse), a pest of turfgrass in Korea, was investigated at four golf clubs in Pusan, Korea, from 1995 to 1999. Adult emergence was first observed on the greens in late May with peak activity occurring 2 wk later. During the day, E. orientalis adults were most active between 1800 and 2200 hours. First instars were found mostly in early July, second instars mostly in late July, and third instars from August to April. The density of larvae in fixed plots decreased steadily from the time of egg laying to pupation: 667/m3 on 26 July, 267/m3 on 29 August, and 122/m3 on 2 October 1997. All the observed E. orientalis completed one generation per year. Adult females were observed feeding on flowers of a late-blooming variety of Japanese chestnut (Castanea crenata Sieb &amp; Zucc). E. orientalis larval densities were higher in greens with Japanese chestnut nearby, and where magpie, Pica pica sericea (Gould), feeding was observed. More E. orientalis adults emerged from the right, left, and back of greens than from the front or middle. The intensity of emergence was inversely proportional to the amount of golfer traffic on various parts of the green. Counting emergence holes may be a way that golf course superintendents can predict which greens and tees are most likely to be damaged from E. orientalis larvae without destructive sampling.}, }
@article {pmid11939091, year = {2002}, author = {Faleh-Tamimi, A and Qudah, A}, title = {Surgical treatment of temporal lobe epilepsy. Personal experience.}, journal = {Neurocirugia (Asturias, Spain)}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {33-37}, doi = {10.1016/s1130-1473(02)70648-9}, pmid = {11939091}, issn = {1130-1473}, mesh = {Adult ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Epilepsy, Temporal Lobe/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; }, abstract = {The authors present their results with epilepsy surgery of the temporal lobe performed during a 5 years period at the Hospital of the University of Jordan, in 12 patients. All patients underwent comprehensive presurgical evaluation, including neurological history, examination, video-Electroencefalogram, Electroencephalogram for intercritical and habitual seizures and optimum magnetic resonance. After appropriate selection, we performed epilepsy surgery in 12 patients (9 males and 3 females). The mean age at operation was 21.4 years (range 4-44 years). All patients were receiving high therapeutic doses of antiepileptic therapy. Abnormal findings in Magnetic Resonance were observed in all cases. Pre and post resection electrocorticogram were recorded and graded according to Jay Scale. Pathological findings showed, neoplasic lesion in 2 cases (16%); one ganglioglioma and a low grade astrocytoma) and 10 patients (84%) showed non-neoplasic lesions. Three patients (25%) had cortical dysplasia, another 3 (25%) had mesotemporal sclerosis, three more (25%) gliosis and one (8%) an arachnoid cyst. Post resection ECoG showed (84%) type A, (8%) type B, and (8%) type C. The present study has shown that intraoperative ECoG has an important role in the prediction of medically intractable epilepsy. Outcome of temporal lobe epilepsy surgery in our series was comparable to results reported by other authors despite of the absence of sophisticated functional tests.}, }
@article {pmid11931507, year = {2002}, author = {Kumar, P and Husain, SG and Murthy, RC and Srivastava, SP and Anand, M and Ali, MM and Seth, PK}, title = {Neuropsychological studies on lead battery workers.}, journal = {Veterinary and human toxicology}, volume = {44}, number = {2}, pages = {76-78}, pmid = {11931507}, issn = {0145-6296}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Central Nervous System Diseases/*chemically induced ; Cognition Disorders/*chemically induced ; *Electric Power Supplies ; Humans ; Lead/*adverse effects ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Occupational Exposure ; }, abstract = {This study assessed the psychological status of 60 lead-acid battery workers occupationally exposed to low level lead and 30 referents in Lucknow. Digit spans and symbol, Bourdon-wiersma vigilance and Raven's Progressive matrices tests were administered. Significant impairments in concentration, attention, auditory and visual memory, psycho-motor speed, perceptual accuracy, and visual reasoning were observed in the workers compared to the referents. The deficits were not related to exposure duration since the magnitude of the impairments observed in workers with 1-y duration was the same as in those with more (up to 30 years) work duration. The blood lead of the battery workers was significantly elevated. There were functional deficits of the central nervous system in the lead-acid battery workers.}, }
@article {pmid11931463, year = {2002}, author = {Jing, SR and Lin, YF and Wang, TW and Lee, DY}, title = {Microcosm wetlands for wastewater treatment with different hydraulic loading rates and macrophytes.}, journal = {Journal of environmental quality}, volume = {31}, number = {2}, pages = {690-696}, pmid = {11931463}, issn = {0047-2425}, mesh = {*Ecosystem ; *Models, Theoretical ; Nitrogen/analysis ; Phosphorus/analysis ; Plants ; Waste Disposal, Fluid/*methods ; *Water Movements ; }, abstract = {Constructed wetlands (CW) usually require large land areas for treating wastewater. This study evaluated the feasibility of applying CW with less land requirement by operating a group of microcosm wetlands at a hydraulic retention time (HRT) of less than 4 d in southern Taiwan. An artificial wastewater, simulating municipal wastewater containing 200 mg L(-1) of chemical oxygen demand (COD), 20 mg L(-1) of NH4+-N (AN), and 20 mg L(-1) of PO4(3-)-P (OP), was the inflow source. Three emergent plants [reed, Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud.; water primrose, Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) P.H. Raven; and dayflower, Commelina communis L.] and two floating plants [water spinach, Ipomoea aquatica Forssk.; and water lettuce, Pistia stratiotes L.] plants were tested. The planted systems showed more nutrient removal than unplanted systems; however, the type of macrophytes in CW did not make a major difference in treatment. At the HRTs of 2 to 4 d, the planted system maintained greater than 72,80, and 46% removal for COD, AN, and OP, respectively. For AN and OP removal, the highest efficiencies occurred at the HRT of 3 d, whereas maximum removal rates for AN and OP occurred at the HRT of 2 d. Both removal rates and efficiencies were reduced drastically at the HRT of 1 d. Removals of COD, OP, and AN followed first-order reactions within the HRTs of 1 to 4 d. The efficient removals of these constituents obtained with HRT between 2 and 4 d indicated the possibility of using a CW system for wastewater treatment with less land requirement.}, }
@article {pmid11931261, year = {2002}, author = {Dohm, DJ and O'Guinn, ML and Turell, MJ}, title = {Effect of environmental temperature on the ability of Culex pipiens (Diptera: Culicidae) to transmit West Nile virus.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {39}, number = {1}, pages = {221-225}, doi = {10.1603/0022-2585-39.1.221}, pmid = {11931261}, issn = {0022-2585}, mesh = {Animals ; Chickens ; Chlorocebus aethiops ; Culex/*virology ; Disease Models, Animal ; *Disease Outbreaks ; Environment ; Female ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; New York/epidemiology ; Temperature ; Time Factors ; Vero Cells ; Viremia ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/virology ; West Nile virus/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Environmental temperature can affect the ability of mosquitoes to transmit an arbovirus. However, results of various studies indicate that these effects are not consistent among viruses or mosquito species, and there is no information available on the effect of environmental temperature on the ability of North American mosquito species to transmit West Nile (WN) virus. We evaluated the effect of incubation temperature (18, 20, 26, or 30 degrees C) on the ability of Culex pipiens L. derived from specimens collected during the outbreak in New York in 1999 to transmit a strain of WN virus obtained from a crow that died during this outbreak. Although mosquitoes fed on the same viremic chickens, infection rates were directly related to subsequent incubation temperatures. In mosquitoes held at 30 degrees C, virus was recovered from nearly all mosquitoes tested, disseminated infections were detected as early as 4 d after the infectious blood meal, and >90% of all mosquitoes had a disseminated infection 12 or more days after the infectious blood meal. In contrast, for mosquitoes held at 18 degrees C, disseminated infections were not detected until 25 d after the infectious blood meal, and even after 28 d, <30% contained a disseminated infection. Results for mosquitoes held at 20 and 26 degrees C were intermediate for both infection and dissemination rates. The effect of environmental temperature should to be considered when evaluating the vector competence of these mosquitoes and modeling risk of WN virus transmission in nature.}, }
@article {pmid11921166, year = {2002}, author = {Cibert, C}, title = {Axonemal activity relative to the 2D/3D-waveform conversion of the flagellum.}, journal = {Cell motility and the cytoskeleton}, volume = {51}, number = {2}, pages = {89-111}, doi = {10.1002/cm.10016}, pmid = {11921166}, issn = {0886-1544}, mesh = {Animals ; Flagella/*physiology/ultrastructure ; Male ; Sea Urchins ; Sperm Motility/*physiology ; Spermatozoa/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The waveform of the flagellum of the sea urchin spermatozoon is mainly planar, but its 3D-properties were evoked for dynamic reasons and described as helical. In 1975, the apparent twisting pattern of the sea urchin axoneme was described [Gibbons I. 1975. The molecular basis of flagellar motility in sea urchin spermatozoa. In: Inoué S, Stephens R, editors. Molecular and cellular movement. New York: Raven Press, p. 207-232.] and was considered to be one of the main elements involved in axonemal behaviour. Recently, planar, quasi-planar, and helical waveforms were observed when the flagellum of sea urchin sperm cells was submitted to an increase in viscosity. The quasi-planar conformation seemed to be due to the alternating torsion of the inter-bend segments [Woolley D, Vernon G. 2001. A study of helical and planar waves on sea urchin sperm flagella, with a theory of how they are generated. J. Exp. Biol. 204:1333-1345]. These three waveforms, which are due to a change in axonemal activity, are possibly used by the sperm cells to adapt their movement to variations in the physico-chemical characteristics of the medium (seawater) in which the cells normally swim. We constructed a simple model to describe qualitatively the central shear (between the axonemal doublets and the central pair) and the tangential shear (between the doublets themselves). In this model, the 3D-bending is resolved into components in two perpendicular planes and each of the nine planes of inter-doublet interaction defines a potential bending plane that is independently regulated. These shears were calculated for the three waveforms and their inter-conversion. This allowed us to propose that axoneme is resolved in successive modules delineated by abscissas where the sliding is always nil. We discuss these data concerning the axonemal machinery, and especially the alternating activity of opposite sides of (two) neutral surface(s) that seem(s) to be responsible for this inter-conversion, and for the possible twist of the axoneme during the beating.}, }
@article {pmid11902321, year = {2001}, author = {Wachi, M and Tomikawa, M and Fukuda, M and Kameyama, S and Kasahara, K and Sasagawa, M and Shirane, S and Kanazawa, O and Yoshino, M and Aoki, S and Sohma, Y}, title = {Neuropsychological changes after surgical treatment for temporal lobe epilepsy.}, journal = {Epilepsia}, volume = {42 Suppl 6}, number = {}, pages = {4-8}, pmid = {11902321}, issn = {0013-9580}, mesh = {Adult ; Amygdala/surgery ; Brain Damage, Chronic/*diagnosis/psychology ; Epilepsy, Temporal Lobe/psychology/*surgery ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Hippocampus/surgery ; Humans ; MMPI ; Male ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Postoperative Complications/*diagnosis/psychology ; *Psychosurgery ; Temporal Lobe/surgery ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: The effect of unilateral temporal lobectomy on seizure frequency is well recognized, but little is known about the neuropsychological changes that occur after surgical treatment. We assessed neuropsychological status in 26 patients with an average age of 35 years before and after unilateral temporal lobectomy for medically intractable TLE.<br><br>METHODS: Neuropsychological examination to assess cognitive function, memory, attention, visuospatial analysis, language, and emotional functions was performed preoperatively and at 1 month and 1 year after the surgery.<br><br>RESULTS: At both 1 month and 1 year after the surgery, the patients had improved scores, compared with the preoperative scores, on the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (WAIS-R: verbal IQ, performance IQ, and full-scale IQ), Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised (WMS-R: verbal, general, and delayed paired associates memory), and Raven Colored Progressive Matrices. In the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), significant decreases were observed at 1 year after the surgery in the scores for infrequency, hypochondriasis, psychasthenia, and schizophrenia. Patients in whom the seizures had been relieved postoperatively also had improved scores on the WAIS-R, WMS-R, and Raven Colored Progressive Matrices.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: These data suggest that neuropsychological improvement postoperatively is influenced by the reduction in the frequency of seizures after surgery.}, }
@article {pmid11900722, year = {2002}, author = {Mayringer, H and Wimmer, H}, title = {No deficits at the point of hemispheric indecision.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {40}, number = {7}, pages = {701-704}, doi = {10.1016/s0028-3932(01)00191-9}, pmid = {11900722}, issn = {0028-3932}, mesh = {Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition Disorders/physiopathology ; *Decision Making ; Dyslexia/*physiopathology ; Functional Laterality ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Processes ; *Motor Skills ; }, abstract = {This study attempted to replicate a recent finding by Crow et al. [Neuropsychologia 36 (1998) 1275] showing that about equal skill of right and left hand (i.e. hemispheric indecision) is associated with deficits in cognitive and scholastic achievement. The present study assessed hemispheric indecision by using Annett's [Left, Right, Hand and Brain: The Right Shift Theory, Lawrence Erlbaum, London, 1985] peg moving test and by assessing the consistency of hand preference at school entrance. Non-verbal intelligence, reading and spelling accuracy were assessed about three years later. The sample consisted of 530 boys. Contrary to Crow et al., children with about equal hand skill did not show deficits in non-verbal intelligence, reading and spelling. Also, there were no deficits when inconsistent hand preference was taken as indication of hemispheric indecision. The findings cast doubt on the hemispheric indecision hypothesis and speak specifically against Orton's [Reading, Writing and Speech Problems in Children, Norton, New York, 1937] position, revived by Crow et al., that delayed or absent hemispheric dominance may lead to difficulties with the acquisition of reading and spelling.}, }
@article {pmid11887890, year = {2001}, author = {Chen, JD and Jiao, SJ and Sun, HL}, title = {Tracking reliability for space cabin-borne equipment in development by Crow model.}, journal = {Hang tian yi xue yu yi xue gong cheng = Space medicine &amp; medical engineering}, volume = {14}, number = {6}, pages = {391-394}, pmid = {11887890}, issn = {1002-0837}, mesh = {Equipment Design ; Equipment Failure ; Equipment and Supplies/*standards ; *Models, Theoretical ; *Quality Control ; Space Flight/*instrumentation/standards ; Spacecraft/*instrumentation/standards ; }, abstract = {Objective. To study and track the reliability growth of manned spaceflight cabin-borne equipment in the course of its development. Method. A new technique of reliability growth estimation and prediction, which is composed of the Crow model and test data conversion (TDC) method was used. Result. The estimation and prediction value of the reliability growth conformed to its expectations. Conclusion. The method could dynamically estimate and predict the reliability of the equipment by making full use of various test information in the course of its development. It offered not only a possibility of tracking the equipment reliability growth, but also the reference for quality control in manned spaceflight cabin-borne equipment design and development process.}, }
@article {pmid11886361, year = {2002}, author = {Maeshima, S and Moriwaki, H and Ozaki, F and Okita, R and Yamaga, H and Ueyoshi, A}, title = {Silent cerebral infarction and cognitive function in middle-aged neurologically healthy subjects.}, journal = {Acta neurologica Scandinavica}, volume = {105}, number = {3}, pages = {179-184}, doi = {10.1034/j.1600-0404.2002.1o068.x}, pmid = {11886361}, issn = {0001-6314}, mesh = {Adult ; Cerebral Infarction/*complications/pathology ; Cerebral Ventricles/*pathology ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology ; Female ; Health Status ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Mental Status Schedule ; Middle Aged ; }, abstract = {We sought to clarify whether apparently silent cerebral infarcts and periventricular hyperintensities are associated with depressed cognitive function in middle-aged subjects. Subjects were 84 middle-aged neurologically normal adults who wished to undergo a screening examination of the brain. We performed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and neuropsychologic tests in all subjects. Silent cerebral infarcts and periventricular hyperintensities, respectively, were detected in 21 and 14 of 84 subjects. Mini-mental state (MMS) and Raven's colored progressive matrices (RCPM) scores were significantly lower in subjects with than without silent cerebral infarcts. By two-factor analysis of variance, MMS score was affected by silent cerebral infarcts or periventricular hyperintensities, with interactions between the two lesion types (P < 0.05). Silent cerebral infarcts may be an independent factor in the pathogenesis of intellectual dysfunction, but truly independent analysis is difficult because many subjects with silent cerebral infarcts also have periventricular hyperintensities.}, }
@article {pmid11871666, year = {2002}, author = {Daniels, MJ and Hutchings, MR and Allcroft, DJ and McKendrick, J and Greig, A}, title = {Risk factors for Johne's disease in Scotland--the results of a survey of farmers.}, journal = {The Veterinary record}, volume = {150}, number = {5}, pages = {135-139}, doi = {10.1136/vr.150.5.135}, pmid = {11871666}, issn = {0042-4900}, mesh = {Animals ; Incidence ; Logistic Models ; Paratuberculosis/*epidemiology/etiology/prevention &amp; control ; Prevalence ; Risk Factors ; Scotland/epidemiology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {The reported incidence of Johne's disease has been increasing in the east of Scotland since 1993. A postal questionnaire survey was sent to 127 farms to identify potential risk factors for Johne's disease in relation to wildlife and farm management practices, and 86 returns were obtained. Of 22 farms which had been assumed to be free of the disease, on the basis of information held by local veterinary centres, seven (32 per cent) reported cases of Johne's disease in the 1990s, indicating that the disease is under-reported. Logistic regression analyses showed that eight of 63 potentially explanatory variables were significant at the 5 per cent level in affecting the likelihood of farms reporting Johne's disease. Of these, large numbers of livestock and rabbits, and access of wildlife to feed stores were the clearest and most consistent risk factors associated with the disease. The application of manure to grazing pasture, the type of water supply for the cattle and the numbers of crows were also related to the presence of Johne's disease but the nature of these relationships was less clear. Only 38 per cent of the farms reported taking any control measures to combat Johne's disease, but three of the control measures were relevant to risk factors identified as significant by the survey, namely maintaining a clean water supply, controlling rabbits and not spreading manure on to grazing pasture.}, }
@article {pmid11860902, year = {2000}, author = {Qian, M and Wang, D and Chen, Z}, title = {[A preliminary meta-analysis of 36 studies on impairment of intelligence development induced by iodine deficiency].}, journal = {Zhonghua yu fang yi xue za zhi [Chinese journal of preventive medicine]}, volume = {34}, number = {2}, pages = {75-77}, pmid = {11860902}, issn = {0253-9624}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*etiology/prevention &amp; control ; Intelligence/*drug effects ; Iodine/*deficiency/*therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Since 1980 s', numerous studies on intelligence quotient (IQ) have documented, in the areas prevalent with severe, moderate and even mild iodine deficiency, which is a risk factor for retardation in mental development there. It was purposed for this paper to quantify the relationship between iodine deficiency and mental development in children and to explore the etiological role of iodine deficiency in mental retardation and the protective effects on children's intelligence of iodine supplementation.<br><br>METHODS: A total of 59 independent investigations published during 1980 and 1998 were selected for meta-analysis, including 20 studies on intelligence determined by Raven's Test and 39 by China Benit Scale.<br><br>RESULTS: Homogeneity test showed that there was no significant difference in baseline features between two groups (P > 0.05). The hypothesis testing showed that the homogeneity of each study group was obviously statistically significant (P > 0.05). The results demonstrated that IQ in children at risk for iodine deficiency showed a marked drop by 8.94 points with Raven's Test and by 10.80 points with China Binet Scale, respectively, with an average drop of 10 points. Substantial evidence now available has showed that mental retardation can be prevented by effective correction of iodine deficiency through iodine supplement either iodized salt or iodized oil, which is confirmed by an obvious increase in 11.5 points of IQ in average, and in 11.85 by Raven's Test and 11.64 by China Binet Scale, respectively.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Iodine nutrition plays an important and positive role in brain development. Iodine deficiency leads to loss of 10 points of IQ and 11.5 points can be gained for children in the iodine deficiency areas after significant iodine supplement.}, }
@article {pmid11860426, year = {2002}, author = {Matarasso, SL}, title = {Decreased tear expression with an abnormal Schirmer's test following botulinum toxin type A for the treatment of lateral canthal rhytides.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {28}, number = {2}, pages = {149-152}, doi = {10.1046/j.1524-4725.2002.01149.x}, pmid = {11860426}, issn = {1076-0512}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Dry Eye Syndromes/chemically induced/*diagnosis ; Facial Muscles/drug effects ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Inactivation of muscles of facial expression by chemodenervation with botulinum toxin remains an off-label indication. Nevertheless, it continues to be a safe and effective technique to improve dynamic rhytides and is the treatment of choice for the hypertrophic lateral fibers of the orbicularis oculi muscle that can cause the superimposed crow's feet.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: Although infrequent and self-limiting, the complication of unexpected muscle weakness from toxin diffusion or erroneous placement is documented.<br><br>METHODS: However, injection into the pretarsal portion of the orbicularis oculi muscle resulting in unilateral ocular irritation and diminished tear expression as evidenced by a dry eye and an abnormal Schirmer's test has rarely been reported. Direct injection into the pretarsal fibers of the muscle as opposed to diffusion of the toxin into the muscle fibers or the lacrimal gland was consistent with the onset of action of the toxin and the prolonged duration of the ocular symptoms.<br><br>RESULTS: Treatment consisted of ocular lubrication until the effects of the toxin dissipated and muscle tone returned. Subsequent treatment did not result in a result in a recurrence of adverse sequelae.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Facial muscles are small, not isolated, and often have fibers that interdigitate. An important factor in the administration of botulinum toxin is the identification of the muscles responsible for the corresponding rhytide. Precise knowledge of muscular anatomy and function will aid in minimizing this and other potential complications.}, }
@article {pmid11852800, year = {2002}, author = {El'chinova, GI and Zinchenko, RA and Zinchenko, SP and Ginter, EK}, title = {[Comparison of Chuvashs with Maris and Russians by vital statistics and the Crow index].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {38}, number = {1}, pages = {93-96}, pmid = {11852800}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Demography ; Ethnicity/*genetics ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Russia ; *Vital Statistics ; }, abstract = {Genetic demographic characteristics were calculated for Chuvash and Russian inhabitants of the Republic of Chuvashia. The generation lengths were 27.09 and 26.4 years and the sibship sizes were 2.54 and 1.82 for Chuvashes and Russians, respectively. Crow's indices and their components were as follows: Im = 0.05, If = 0.31, and Itot = 0.37 for Chuvashes and Im = 0.03, If = 0.43, and Itot = 0.46 for Russians. The genetic demographic characteristics obtained were compared with those for Highland and Meadow Maris.}, }
@article {pmid11842610, year = {2001}, author = {Górna, R and Kustrzycki, W and Kiejna, A and Rymaszewska, J}, title = {[Assessment of short-term neuropsychologic changes after normothermic versus hypothermic coronary artery bypass grafting].}, journal = {Psychiatria polska}, volume = {35}, number = {5}, pages = {781-795}, pmid = {11842610}, issn = {0033-2674}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/epidemiology ; Coronary Artery Bypass/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Hypothermia, Induced/*methods ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Postoperative Period ; Severity of Illness Index ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is one of the main methods of treatment of coronary artery disease. Neuropsychological testing is a sensitive method for quantitative assessment of cognitive dysfunctioning following cardiopulmonary bypass. The aim of the present clinical study was to evaluate the neuropsychologic changes in CABG patients, operated with normothermic or hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB).<br><br>METHODS: Neuropsychological changes were assessed in 33 first-time CABG patients before and 3-10 days after surgery. Patients underwent CABG with hypothermic (Gr. H, n = 17) or normothermic (Gr. N, n = 16) CPB with standard anesthesia. Neuropsychological performance was assessed using a well-established battery of 10 tests. A neuropsychological test battery includes: Digit Span-subtest of WAIS-R (PL), the Trail Making Test, Raven Test, Benton, Bourdon, Verbal Fluency (F,A,S), Turm von Hanoi, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Supermarket, WAIS-R (PL) Digit Symbol-subtest of WAIS-R (PL). All patients completed the test for perception, attention, immediate and delayed verbal and visual memory, visual and verbal learning, problem-solving strategies, abstraction, recognition, word fluency, visual- motor coordination and psychomotor speed. For comparison, the incidence of decline using the 1.5 standard deviation (at least in 2 tests) also was calculated.<br><br>RESULTS: Comparing the reliable change and SD methods, statistically significant differences in the incidence of decline were observed in 6 of the 10 neuropsychological measures. Patients' scores showed a significant deterioration in concentration of attention, immediate verbal memory, psychomotor speed, visuoconstructive tasks and verbal learning. Neuropsychological deficits were found in 66.7% of patients after surgery. Post-operative deficits were not associated with the method used (normothermia or hypothermia).}, }
@article {pmid11796095, year = {2002}, author = {Maeshima, S and Itakura, T and Komai, N and Matsumoto, T and Ueyoshi, A}, title = {Relationships between event-related potentials (P300) and activities of daily living in Parkinson's disease.}, journal = {Brain injury}, volume = {16}, number = {1}, pages = {1-8}, doi = {10.1080/02699050110088245}, pmid = {11796095}, issn = {0269-9052}, mesh = {*Activities of Daily Living ; Adult ; Aged ; Case-Control Studies ; *Event-Related Potentials, P300 ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/*physiopathology/*psychology ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; }, abstract = {The correlation between event-related potentials (P300) and activities of daily living was studied in Parkinson's disease. The P300 of 30 patients with Parkinson's disease and 118 normal subjects were recorded. All patients were evaluated by the Mini-Mental State, Kana-hiroi Test, word fluency, Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, Osaka Memory Scale, revised Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, self-rating depression scale, state-trait anxiety inventory, and Functional Independence Measure. Eight patients showed prolonged P300 latencies. P300 latency showed relationships to the Mini-Mental State (p < 0.05) and cognitive items of the Functional Independence Measure (p < 0.05). P300 amplitude showed a relationship to performance IQ (p < 0.005), Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (p < 0.01) and motor items of the Functional Independence Measure (p < 0.05). It was concluded that P300 should be useful in predicting difficulties with activities of daily living in patients with Parkinson's disease.}, }
@article {pmid11839110, year = {2002}, author = {Maeshima, S and Ueyoshi, A and Matsumoto, T and Boh-Oka, S and Yoshida, M and Itakura, T}, title = {Quantitative assessment of impairment in constructional ability by cube copying in patients with aphasia.}, journal = {Brain injury}, volume = {16}, number = {2}, pages = {161-167}, doi = {10.1080/02699050110102095}, pmid = {11839110}, issn = {0269-9052}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Apraxias/*diagnosis/*etiology ; Brain/*blood supply/physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Severity of Illness Index ; Stroke/*complications/physiopathology ; }, abstract = {Constructional apraxia was evaluated in patients with aphasia using a cube-copying task. It was assessed whether quantitative assessment of cube copying could be used to estimate the performance intelligence quotient (IQ) according to neuropsychological tests. Abnormality in the cube-copying test was observed in 42 of 46 patients (91.3%). Performance according to Raven's coloured progressive matrices and the revised Wechshler adult intelligence scale (WAIS-R) in patients with poor cube copying was significantly lower than in the other four patients. Numbers of the connections completed and plane-orientation errors made in the cube-copying test were significantly correlated with performance IQ on the WAIS-R, correlating particularly with block design, digit symbol, and object assembly in performance IQ subtests. The quantitatively scored cube-copying test, then, can roughly predict non-verbal IQ in patients with aphasia.}, }
@article {pmid11836903, year = {2002}, author = {Range, P}, title = {Video communication visions.}, journal = {Health estate}, volume = {56}, number = {1}, pages = {30-31}, pmid = {11836903}, mesh = {Europe ; Hospital Communication Systems ; Hotlines ; Information Centers ; *Information Systems ; State Medicine/organization &amp; administration ; Systems Integration ; Telecommunications/*trends ; United Kingdom ; Videotape Recording/*trends ; }, abstract = {In a recent study, entitled: Study on the Use of Advanced Telecoms by Healthcare Establishments, commissioned by the Information Society Directorate General of the European Commission, it was emphasised that: "Telecommunications networks and services are central to the achievement of seamless care, where patients' needs are addressed smoothly and efficiently, by whatever services they need, as and when they need it." Video communications, as part of an integrated information and communications strategy, has the capability to provide a continuum of care throughout a person's lifespan--from the cradle to the grave. Moreover in the future, video-enabled healthcare will help the government redesign the health service around the patient. It is a fast developing area and estate managers will need to be part of any implementation strategy, as exemplified in the IP network being developed across the Welsh healthcare estate. Motion Media is a founding member of the UK e-Health Association, a circle member of the American Telemedicine Association and a member of the European Health Telematics Association (EHTEL). The company was chosen recently by the EHTEL to run the first approved Telehealth demonstration centre in Europe. In October 2001 Motion Media appointed Dr Jay Sanders as its Consulting Medical Director. Dr Sanders is known throughout the US healthcare industry as the "Father of Telemedicine."}, }
@article {pmid11832937, year = {2002}, author = {Bond, AB and Kamil, AC}, title = {Visual predators select for crypticity and polymorphism in virtual prey.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {415}, number = {6872}, pages = {609-613}, doi = {10.1038/415609a}, pmid = {11832937}, issn = {0028-0836}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Color ; Computer Simulation ; Ecology ; *Genetic Variation ; Moths/anatomy &amp; histology/genetics ; Phenotype ; *Predatory Behavior ; Selection, Genetic ; Songbirds/genetics/*physiology ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Cryptically coloured animals commonly occur in several distinct pattern variants. Such phenotypic diversity may be promoted by frequency-dependent predation, in which more abundant variants are attacked disproportionately often, but the hypothesis has never been explicitly tested. Here we report the first controlled experiment on the effects of visual predators on prey crypticity and phenotypic variance, in which blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) searched for digital moths on computer monitors. Moth phenotypes evolved via a genetic algorithm in which individuals detected by the jays were much less likely to reproduce. Jays often failed to detect atypical cryptic moths, confirming frequency-dependent selection and suggesting the use of searching images, which enhance the detection of common prey. Over successive generations, the moths evolved to become significantly harder to detect, and they showed significantly greater phenotypic variance than non-selected or frequency-independent selected controls.}, }
@article {pmid11825319, year = {2001}, author = {Sunanda, GV and Johanson, R}, title = {Pre-eclampsia, diagnosis and treatment.}, journal = {Expert opinion on pharmacotherapy}, volume = {2}, number = {11}, pages = {1817-1824}, doi = {10.1517/14656566.2.11.1817}, pmid = {11825319}, issn = {1465-6566}, mesh = {Adult ; Anticonvulsants/therapeutic use ; Female ; Fluid Therapy ; Humans ; Postpartum Period ; Pre-Eclampsia/*diagnosis/prevention &amp; control/*therapy ; Pregnancy ; }, abstract = {Pre-eclampsia is a multisystem disorder of pregnancy usually associated with raised blood pressure (BP) and proteinuria. The pathogenesis is not understood despite decades of research. Abnormal placentation related to immune mechanisms and maladaptation of the placenta may be the first step in the development of the disease. Although there are a number of risk factors and new innovatory tests (e.g., uterine artery Doppler) which can be used to predict pre-eclampsia, none fulfils standard diagnostic criteria. Of possible prophylactic value are antiplatelet agents, calcium supplementation and vitamins C and E. Prevention of eclampsia with magnesium sulfate is the subject of a current international randomised controlled trial (RCT), known as MAGPIE. Therapeutic strategies include avoidance of hypertensive injury and delivery of the baby and placenta. Further research into specific antihypertensive agents and conservative management strategies is required.}, }
@article {pmid11823950, year = {2002}, author = {Reinhardt, D and Thiele, C and Creutzig, U and , }, title = {[Neuropsychological sequelae in children with AML treated with or without prophylactic CNS-irradiation].}, journal = {Klinische Padiatrie}, volume = {214}, number = {1}, pages = {22-29}, doi = {10.1055/s-2002-19861}, pmid = {11823950}, issn = {0300-8630}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention/radiation effects ; Brain/*radiation effects ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cranial Irradiation/*adverse effects ; Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Intelligence/radiation effects ; Learning Disabilities/diagnosis/psychology ; Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/*radiotherapy ; Leukemic Infiltration/*radiotherapy ; Male ; Meninges/*pathology ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Radiation Injuries/*diagnosis/psychology ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In study AML-BFM 87 the relapse rate was lower in patients receiving cranial irradiation (CRT). However, CRT has always been associated with adverse cognitive side effects. Therefore, the impact of CRT on neuropsychological function in children with AML was retrospectively evaluated.<br><br>PATIENTS: We tested 53 children (30 boys, 23 girls) treated according to the AML-BFM-87 protocol (median age at diagnosis: 8.5 years, range 0.3 - 17.5; median time since diagnosis: 5.7 yrs, 3.8 - 10.7 yrs). To avoid any bias from additional therapy elements, patients with relapse or initial CNS involvement and transplanted patients were excluded (n=32). Our cohort was representative of the total group of 104 long term survivors of study AML-BFM 87. CNS prophylaxis consisted of ARA-C i.th., high dose ARA-C i. v. and either no CRT (n=15) or CRT (n=38) at a dose of 12 - 18 Gy depending on age.<br><br>METHODS: Neuropsychological function was evaluated by psychological tests of attention and concentration (test d2 by Brickenkamp) and an intelligence test (Progressive Matrices by Raven). In addition, patients and their parents were interviewed about the occurrence of learning problems, subjective deficits in concentration and physical impairment.<br><br>RESULTS: In the total group, no significant differences were seen between irradiated and non-irradiated patients regarding the psychological tests. However, the irradiated patients scored below the non-irradiated control group in test "d2" (concentration: 41st vs. 59th percentile). In the interview, irradiated patients tended to report more learning problems (lp) (10/36 vs. 1/14; p=0.15) and subjective deficits in concentration (con). In irradiated girls (con: 6/15 vs. 0/8; p=0.06; lp: 5/15 vs. 0/8; p=0.12) and younger patients (0 - 5 years at diagnosis; con: 7/12 vs. 2/9; p=0.18; lp 3/10 vs. 1/9; p=0.18) this trend was even more pronounced.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Children with AML and CRT had no significant intellectual impairment in standardized tests when compared to non-irradiated patients. However, more irradiated patients reported learning problems and subjective concentration deficits.}, }
@article {pmid11816861, year = {2001}, author = {Martin, DS and Craft, A and Sheng, ZN}, title = {The impact of cognitive strategy instruction on deaf learners: an international comparative study.}, journal = {American annals of the deaf}, volume = {146}, number = {4}, pages = {366-378}, doi = {10.1353/aad.2012.0156}, pmid = {11816861}, issn = {0002-726X}, mesh = {Child ; *Cognition ; Cross-Cultural Comparison ; *Deafness ; Humans ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving ; *Teaching ; }, abstract = {Teacher cohorts in England and China received special training in techniques for teaching higher-level critical and creative cognitive strategies to deaf learners. Both cohorts implemented the strategies in the classroom at least twice weekly for 6 months. Measures included Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (1959), a systematic observation checklist for cognitive behaviors (Martin &amp; Craft, 1998), and critical and creative problem situations to which students had to respond. Results were compared with those from a study of similar learners in the United States (Martin &amp; Jonas, 1985), and little difference was found. Students in all three countries improved in reasoning, devising real-world problem solutions involving critical thinking (but not creative thinking), using cognitive vocabulary in the classroom, and expressing others' viewpoints. Postintervention focus groups showed teachers in China used a more invariant sequence in teaching the cognitive strategies, but teachers in all three countries experienced similar expansion in cognitive terminology and self-perceptions as teachers of problem solving.}, }
@article {pmid11806591, year = {2001}, author = {Amador-Campos, JA and Kirchner-Nebot, T}, title = {Children's embedded figures test and matching familiar figures test-20: factorial structure for boys and girls from 6 to 11 years old.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {93}, number = {3}, pages = {709-712}, doi = {10.2466/pms.2001.93.3.709}, pmid = {11806591}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Child ; *Discrimination Learning ; Female ; *Field Dependence-Independence ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Personality Assessment/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Personality Development ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {The factorial structure of two tests of cognitive style (the Children's Embedded Figures Test and the Matching Familiar Figures Test-20) and one test of cognitive ability (Raven Progressive Matrices) was examined in this study with a sample of 337 boys and 287 girls between ages 6 and 11 years. Factor I related to Impulsivity and Factor II related to cognitive ability and disembedding skills, which were stable across age groups and sex and accounted for 84.6% of variance.}, }
@article {pmid11805115, year = {2002}, author = {Daiber, A and Frein, D and Namgaladze, D and Ullrich, V}, title = {Oxidation and nitrosation in the nitrogen monoxide/superoxide system.}, journal = {The Journal of biological chemistry}, volume = {277}, number = {14}, pages = {11882-11888}, doi = {10.1074/jbc.M111988200}, pmid = {11805115}, issn = {0021-9258}, mesh = {Animals ; Biochemical Phenomena ; Biochemistry ; Cattle ; Chelating Agents/pharmacology ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid ; Chromogenic Compounds/pharmacology ; Disulfides ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Free Radicals ; Hydrazines/pharmacology ; Hydrogen Peroxide/pharmacology ; Models, Chemical ; Molsidomine/*analogs &amp; derivatives/metabolism/pharmacology ; Nitric Oxide/*metabolism/pharmacology ; Nitric Oxide Donors/pharmacology ; Nitrogen/*metabolism ; Nitrogen Oxides ; Oxygen/*metabolism ; Peroxynitrous Acid/pharmacology ; Protein Binding ; Resorcinols/pharmacology ; Spectrophotometry ; Spectrum Analysis, Raman ; Spermine/*analogs &amp; derivatives/pharmacology ; Sulfhydryl Compounds ; Superoxides/*metabolism/pharmacology ; Time Factors ; Ultraviolet Rays ; Xanthine Oxidase/metabolism ; Zinc/chemistry ; }, abstract = {Based on the previous report of McCord and co-workers (Crow, J. P., Beckman, J. S., and McCord, J. M. (1995) Biochemistry 34, 3544-3552), the zinc dithiolate active site of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) has been studied as a target for cellular oxidants. In the nitrogen monoxide ((*NO)/superoxide (O(2)) system, an equimolar generation of both radicals under peroxynitrite (PN) formation led to rapid inactivation of ADH activity, whereas hydrogen peroxide and (small middle dot)NO alone reacted too slowly to be of physiological significance. 3-Morpholino sydnonimine inactivated the enzyme with an IC(50) value of 250 nm; the corresponding values for PN, hydrogen peroxide, and (*NO) were 500 nm, 50 microm, and 200 microm. When superoxide was generated at low fluxes by xanthine oxidase, it was quite effective in ADH inactivation (IC(50) (XO) approximately 1 milliunit/ml). All inactivations were accompanied by zinc release and disulfide formation, although no strict correlation was observed. From the two zinc thiolate centers, only the zinc Cys(2)His center released the metal by oxidants. The zinc Cys(4) center was also oxidized, but no second zinc atom could be found with 4-(2-pyridylazo)resorcinol (PAR) as a chelating agent except under denaturing conditions. Surprisingly, the oxidative actions of PN were abolished by a 2-3-fold excess of (*)NO under generation of a nitrosating species, probably dinitrogen trioxide. We conclude that in cellular systems, low fluxes of (*)NO and O(2) generate peroxynitrite at levels effective for zinc thiolate oxidations, facilitated by the nucleophilic nature of the complexed thiolate group. With an excess of (*)NO, the PN actions are blocked, which may explain the antioxidant properties of (*)NO and the mechanism of cellular S-nitrosations.}, }
@article {pmid11798915, year = {2001}, author = {Gao, T and Teng, W and Shan, Z}, title = {[Effect of iodine intake on thyroid diseases and intelligence among schoolchildren in rural areas].}, journal = {Zhonghua yi xue za zhi}, volume = {81}, number = {8}, pages = {453-456}, pmid = {11798915}, issn = {0376-2491}, mesh = {Child ; China ; Female ; Humans ; Hypothyroidism/chemically induced/*metabolism ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Iodide Peroxidase/metabolism ; Iodine/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/urine ; Male ; Psychological Tests ; Rural Population ; Thyroglobulin/metabolism ; Thyroid Function Tests ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To understand the throid function and intelligence among the schoolchildren in three rural areas with different iodine intakes in China to probe the side-effect of excessive iodine intake on intelligence of schoolchildren.<br><br>METHODS: Chinese version of Raven's test was made among rural schoolchildren, 190 from Panshan County, Liaoning Province, a low iodine intake area with the median urinary iodine (MUI) of 99 microgram/L among its inhabitants, 236 from Zhangwu County, Liaoning Province, a moderate iodine intake area with the MUI of 338 microgram/L, and 313 from Huanghua County, Hebei Province, an excessive iodine intake area with the MUI of 631 microgram/L. Thyroid function, thyroid autoantibody (TAA), and MUI were determined among 116, 110 and 112 from the above-mentioned schoolchildren from these three areas respectively.<br><br>RESULTS: There was no significant difference among the prevalence rates of overt hyperthyroidism, subclinical hyperthyroidism and overt hypothyroidism in the areas of Panshan, Zhangwu and Huanghua. However, a significant difference was found among the prevalence rates of subclinical hypothyroidism in theses three areas (P = 0.001). The prevalence rates of subclinical hypothyroidism in Huanghua and Zhangwu were 4.76 and 3.37 times higher than that in Panshan (P = 0.001). TAA was negative among all of the schoolchildren with subclinical hypothyroidism except for one. No significant difference was found among the positive rates of thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) and thyroglobulin antibody (TGAb) in these three areas. Serum thyroglobulin (TG) values in Huanghua were markedly higher than those in the other two areas (P = 0.015 7). Serum TG value in Zhangwu was higher than that in Panshan but with no significant difference. The IQ value of the schoolchildren in Huanghua was markedly higher than that in Zhangwu (P = 0.001 2). The IQ value of the schoolchildren in Panshan was lower than that in Huanghua and higher than that in Zhangwu but with no significant difference.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The increase of iodine intake may increase the risk of subclinical hypothyroidism among schoolchildren. In the area with excessive iodine intake, most of the subclicical hypothyroidism cases among schoolchildren are not of autoimmune origin. No obvious effect of excessive iodine intaue is found on mental development of schoolchildren.}, }
@article {pmid11797807, year = {2001}, author = {Kramer, LD and Bernard, KA}, title = {West Nile virus infection in birds and mammals.}, journal = {Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences}, volume = {951}, number = {}, pages = {84-93}, doi = {10.1111/j.1749-6632.2001.tb02687.x}, pmid = {11797807}, issn = {0077-8923}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology ; Birds/*virology ; Brain/virology ; Culex ; Disease Models, Animal ; Female ; Horses ; Humans ; Kidney/virology ; Mammals/*virology ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred BALB C/virology ; New York City/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) was found throughout New York State in year 2000. The epicenter was located in New York City with a high level of activity in the immediately surrounding counties, including Rockland, Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk. During 2000, WNV testing was performed by the Wadsworth Center on 3,687 dead birds, representing 153 species, 46 families, and 18 orders. There were 1,203 WNV-positive birds, representing 63 species, 30 families and 14 orders. The percentage of WNV-positive birds was 33% for all birds tested throughout the state, with no significant difference in infection rates in migratory versus resident birds, although significantly more resident birds were submitted for testing. The highest apparent mortality for the entire season was observed in American crows in Staten Island, a location that also showed the highest minimal infection rate in Culex pipiens complex mosquitoes. Studies examining tissue tropism of WNV in corvids and noncorvids from the epicenter and from remote locations indicated that the kidney was the most consistently infected tissue in birds, regardless of level of infection. The brain was the next most consistently positive tissue. The differences in infection among the tissues were most apparent when low levels of virus were present. Experimental mouse inoculation demonstrated a classical flavivirus infection pattern.}, }
@article {pmid11797804, year = {2001}, author = {McLean, RG and Ubico, SR and Docherty, DE and Hansen, WR and Sileo, L and McNamara, TS}, title = {West Nile virus transmission and ecology in birds.}, journal = {Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences}, volume = {951}, number = {}, pages = {54-57}, doi = {10.1111/j.1749-6632.2001.tb02684.x}, pmid = {11797804}, issn = {0077-8923}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/*transmission ; Culex ; Humans ; *Songbirds ; United States/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/transmission/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {The ecology of the strain of West Nile virus (WNV) introduced into the United States in 1999 has similarities to the native flavivirus, St. Louis encephalitis (SLE) virus, but has unique features not observed with SLE virus or with WNV in the old world. The primary route of transmission for most of the arboviruses in North America is by mosquito, and infected native birds usually do not suffer morbidity or mortality. An exception to this pattern is eastern equine encephalitis virus, which has an alternate direct route of transmission among nonnative birds, and some mortality of native bird species occurs. The strain of WNV circulating in the northeastern United States is unique in that it causes significant mortality in exotic and native bird species, especially in the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos). Because of the lack of information on the susceptibility and pathogenesis of WNV for this species, experimental studies were conducted at the USGS National Wildlife Health Center. In two separate studies, crows were inoculated with a 1999 New York strain of WNV, and all experimentally infected crows died. In one of the studies, control crows in regular contact with experimentally inoculated crows in the same room but not inoculated with WNV succumbed to infection. The direct transmission between crows was most likely by the oral route. Inoculated crows were viremic before death, and high titers of virus were isolated from a variety of tissues. The significance of the experimental direct transmission among captive crows is unknown.}, }
@article {pmid11797803, year = {2001}, author = {Eidson, M}, title = {"Neon needles" in a haystack: the advantages of passive surveillance for West Nile virus.}, journal = {Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences}, volume = {951}, number = {}, pages = {38-53}, pmid = {11797803}, issn = {0077-8923}, support = {U50/CCU212415/CC/ODCDC CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Disease Reservoirs ; Humans ; New York/epidemiology ; Population Surveillance/*methods ; Songbirds ; United States/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Passive surveillance is usually viewed as less efficient for case ascertainment than active surveillance. However, for diseases with nonhuman animal reservoirs, active surveillance can be like looking for a needle in a haystack and may be prohibitively expensive. Fortunately for surveillance of West Nile virus (WNV) in the northeast US, the dead crows have served as "neon needles in a haystack"--indicators of viral activity that call attention to themselves. In 2000, laboratory testing of dead birds, including all species, birds found singly, with signs of trauma, or no compatible pathology, provided the first confirmation of viral activity in most areas. The surveillance factor most closely associated with the number of human cases was the dead crow density. In 2001, dead crow densities will be used as an additional index for monitoring human risk and need for prevention and control activities. If there are few crows in an area, if their case-fatality rate is reduced, or if there is public complacency about reporting dead crow sightings, this passive surveillance indicator may not be helpful in identifying areas likely to have occasional human cases or an outbreak.}, }
@article {pmid11769885, year = {2001}, author = {Karádi, K and Kállai, J and Kovács, B}, title = {Cognitive subprocesses of mental rotation: why is a good rotator better than a poor one?.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {93}, number = {2}, pages = {333-337}, doi = {10.2466/pms.2001.93.2.333}, pmid = {11769885}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Adult ; Attention ; *Concept Formation ; Decision Making ; *Depth Perception ; Female ; Humans ; Individuality ; Intelligence ; Male ; Mental Recall ; *Orientation ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Problem Solving ; Saccades ; }, abstract = {The Vanderberg-Kuse Mental Rotation Test is a standard test of mental rotation ability. Recent experiments have demonstrated that mental rotation is a complex cognitive process wherein different subprocesses (focused attention, visual scanning, perceptual decision, visual memory) play important roles in performance. We classified the population as good and poor rotators by performance of mental rotation (ns = 47: 22 men and 25 women, respectively; mean age: 20.7 yr.). To examine differences cognitive subprocesses of mental rotation of these two groups were compared. There were significant differences between poor and good rotators in performance on Raven's test and the Pieron Focused Attention test scores. The good rotators scored better because their perceptual decision-analytical intelligence (Raven) and focused attention scores were higher.}, }
@article {pmid11765760, year = {2000}, author = {Leśniewski, M}, title = {[The origin of the Wilno Obstetric and Gynaecological Clinic and its roots, which reach as far back as the 18th century].}, journal = {Archiwum historii i filozofii medycyny}, volume = {63}, number = {3-4}, pages = {40-47}, pmid = {11765760}, issn = {0860-1844}, mesh = {Ambulatory Care Facilities/*history ; Gynecology/*history ; History, 18th Century ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Obstetrics/*history ; Poland ; Universities/*history ; }, abstract = {Studies carried out in libraries and archives in Wilno, Cracow, Warsaw and Gdánsk raven how the clinic of obstetrics and gynaecology was created in Wilno, describe the first years activity, and the persons who had the greatest influence on its creation and position. This clinic, which was organized by Tadeusz Burdziński and developed by Władysław Jakowicki in cooperation with Wacław Zaleski, functioned in the years 1922-1939. In its scarcely 17 years of existence this clinic had a marked presence among the Polish clinics of obstetrics and gynaecology in the Second Republic (II RP). In the author's opinion this fact can be traced back to the roots of obstetrics and gynaecology in the university in Wilno, which reach as far as the 18th century and the person of Mikołaj Regnier. For the first half of the 19th century the gynaecologists and obstetrics of Wilno includes Andrzej Matusewicz and Mikołaj Mianowski carried out their scientific activities outside the University for nearly 80 years. It seems that this activity, which lead to numerous publications, is the platform upon which rests continuous scientific tradition of obstetrics and gynaecology in Wilno and lets us see to present clinic in the University of Stefan Batory - in 21st surely century - as her heiress of that tradition.}, }
@article {pmid11757995, year = {2001}, author = {Bischoff, K and Morgan, S and Chelsvig, J and Spencer, D}, title = {4-aminopyridine poisoning of crows in the Chicago area.}, journal = {Veterinary and human toxicology}, volume = {43}, number = {6}, pages = {350-352}, pmid = {11757995}, issn = {0145-6296}, mesh = {4-Aminopyridine/*poisoning ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*chemically induced ; Fatal Outcome ; Female ; Potassium Channel Blockers/*poisoning ; Seizures/chemically induced ; *Songbirds ; Vocalization, Animal ; Zea mays/chemistry ; }, abstract = {Poisoning of crows with the avicide 4-aminopyridine is reported. Seven crows had frequent vocalization and nervous signs; 6 died. Postmortem examination of 4 found evidence of trauma and corn-based bait present in the gastrointestinal tract. The bait contained 4-aminopyridine, a rapidly fatal nervous system toxin. When utilized by pest control professionals using manufacturer's recommendations, 4-aminopyridine has little risk of direct or relay toxicosis to non-target species. Treatment of exposed individuals involves symptomatic care and control of seizures.}, }
@article {pmid11755045, year = {2001}, author = {Muñoz-Hoyos, A and Augustin-Morales, MC and Ruíz-Cosano, C and Molina-Carballo, A and Fernández-García, JM and Galdó-Munoz, G}, title = {Institutional childcare and the affective deficiency syndrome: consequences on growth, nutrition and development.}, journal = {Early human development}, volume = {65 Suppl}, number = {}, pages = {S145-52}, doi = {10.1016/s0378-3782(01)00216-x}, pmid = {11755045}, issn = {0378-3782}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Body Height ; Body Mass Index ; Body Weight ; Charities ; Child ; *Child Development ; *Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; Child, Institutionalized/*psychology ; Child, Preschool ; *Growth ; Humans ; Psychometrics ; Skinfold Thickness ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {It is generally accepted that, in the face of certain family and social circumstances, a minor may need to be taken into care within an institution, a course of action that provides, at least, an alternative to the risks of abandonment and life "on the street". Nevertheless, the reality of life in childcare centres can lead to children undergoing an additional trauma after escaping the miserable situation of the family home. After the advances made in recent years (economic, healthcare, social, legal, etc.), it has been suggested that the institutionalization of a minor, as a rule, does not in itself represent a negative factor for the child's wellbeing. In order to test this hypothesis, we studied two groups of children in care. The first group comprised 101 children being cared for in a large traditional institution during 1986. The second group was composed of 66 children studied in 1996, resident in a smaller, charitable institution, providing a more family-like atmosphere. Growth evaluation methods were applied, including anthropometry (weight, height, weight/height ratio, body mass index, Rorer index and weight index), nutrition (skin folds, body density, percentage of body fat and weight of the fat) and development (psychometry: Boehm test, CMMS, Raven and EIT). The data were analyzed by means of the Student's t-test. The most important result obtained was the demonstration that the second group of children presented results that were clearly higher in nearly all the studied variables, thus showing that institutionalization in itself does not have a negative influence on child development.}, }
@article {pmid11745509, year = {2001}, author = {Ma, L and Yu, CX and Earl, M and Holmes, T and Sarfaraz, M and Li, XA and Shepard, D and Amin, P and DiBiase, S and Suntharalingam, M and Mansfield, C}, title = {Optimized intensity-modulated arc therapy for prostate cancer treatment.}, journal = {International journal of cancer}, volume = {96}, number = {6}, pages = {379-384}, doi = {10.1002/ijc.1039}, pmid = {11745509}, issn = {0020-7136}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Prostatic Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; }, abstract = {We recently implemented intensity-modulated arc therapy (IMAT) at our institution. In this study, we evaluate the dosimetric merits of the application of this technique to the treatment of prostate cancer. Each IMAT treatment plan incorporated bilateral overlapping arcs. The dose from each beam segment was computed using the three-dimensional dose model of a clinical treatment planning system (Render Plan 3.5, Precision Therapy). The weights assigned to the individual arc segments were optimized using a gradient search method. For 12 patients, comparisons were made between the IMAT treatment plans and corresponding plans using fixed cone-beam intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) from a commercial inverse planning system (CORVUS, NOMOS Corp.). We found that the optimized IMAT treatments produced similar dose distributions to the IMRT deliveries. Compared with the IMRT treatments, the IMAT treatments produced slightly less target dose homogeneity with consistently greater sparing of the rectum in regions of lower dose. The trade-off between target dose conformity and rectum sparing can be adjusted in both optimization procedures. Because the total beam-on time for IMAT delivery is 1 to 2 minutes with approximately 5-6 minutes of patient setup time, the delivery efficiency of the IMAT treatment was significantly better than the multiple-beam IMRT treatment.}, }
@article {pmid11742382, year = {2001}, author = {Hunt, GR and Corballis, MC and Gray, RD}, title = {Animal behaviour: Laterality in tool manufacture by crows.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {414}, number = {6865}, pages = {707}, doi = {10.1038/414707a}, pmid = {11742382}, issn = {0028-0836}, mesh = {Animals ; Feeding Behavior ; Functional Laterality/*physiology ; Humans ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {New Caledonian crows (Fig. 1) fashion tapered tools from either the left or the right edge of the long narrow leaves of pandanus trees or screw pines, which they use to extract invertebrates in rainforest vegetation. Although right-handedness is thought to be uniquely human, we show here that crows from different localities display a widespread laterality in making their tools, indicating that this behaviour is unlikely to be attributable to local social traditions or ecological factors. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of species-level laterality in manipulatory skills outside humans.}, }
@article {pmid11736291, year = {2001}, author = {Mookherjea, S and Yariv, A}, title = {Optical pulse propagation and holographic storage in a coupled-resonator optical waveguide.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {64}, number = {6 Pt 2}, pages = {066602}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.64.066602}, pmid = {11736291}, issn = {1539-3755}, abstract = {We propose a method of storage and reconstruction of a classical light pulse based on photorefractive holography in a coupled-resonator optical waveguide (CROW). Pulse propagation in a CROW is described in the context of the tight-binding approximation; the use of a CROW results in a large reduction of the group velocity, which is important for spatial compression of the optical pulses. Further, the efficiency of the photorefractive effect is enhanced in a CROW, enabling quasistatic holographic grating formation using much lower intensity optical pulses. We describe in detail the formation of a photorefractive index grating in a CROW via interference with a reference pulse and the subsequent holographic reconstruction of the signal pulse.}, }
@article {pmid11727013, year = {2000}, author = {Schouwink, MH and Fong, BF and Mol, BW and van der Veen, F}, title = {Ultrasonographic criteria for non-viability of first trimester intra-uterine pregnancy.}, journal = {Early pregnancy}, volume = {4}, number = {3}, pages = {203-213}, pmid = {11727013}, issn = {1537-6583}, mesh = {Female ; *Fetal Viability ; Humans ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Complications, Cardiovascular/diagnostic imaging ; Pregnancy Trimester, First/physiology ; Ultrasonography, Prenatal/methods/*standards ; Yolk Sac/abnormalities/diagnostic imaging ; }, abstract = {This prospective cohort study evaluated the performance of transvaginal sonography in the assessment of first trimester intra-uterine pregnancy. Consecutive women with singleton pregnancies who underwent a first trimester transvaginal sonographic examination between May 1995 and March 1996 were included. Women had to have an intra-uterine gestational sac and time since last menstrual period of less than 12 weeks. In case of absent cardiac activity and a crow-rump length < 12 mm, the test sonography was repeated with a 7 to 10 days interval. A final diagnosis, that was considered to be the gold standard in further analysis, was established by sonography performed one week after the last test sonography. Among 372 pregnancies, there were 92 (25%) non-viable. The combination of absence of cardiac activity and absence of a yolk sac appeared to be a highly specific criterion whenever the mean sac diameter was > or = 16 mm or whenever a crown rump length was > 5 mm. We conclude that single transvaginal sonography is a reliable test to diagnose non-viable pregnancy in case the MSD is > or = 16 mm or in case the crown rump length is > 5 mm. The combination of absence of cardiac activity and absence of a yolk sac virtually rules out the possibility of a viable pregnancy in these patients.}, }
@article {pmid11723993, year = {2001}, author = {Yuen, HK and Garrett, D}, title = {Comparison of three wheelchair cushions for effectiveness of pressure relief.}, journal = {The American journal of occupational therapy : official publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association}, volume = {55}, number = {4}, pages = {470-475}, doi = {10.5014/ajot.55.4.470}, pmid = {11723993}, issn = {0272-9490}, mesh = {Adult ; Equipment Design ; Humans ; Male ; Pressure ; Pressure Ulcer/prevention &amp; control ; Spinal Cord Injuries/*rehabilitation ; *Wheelchairs ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Previous studies have suggested that no single wheelchair pressure-relieving cushion material was optimal for all persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of the short-term pressure-relieving ability of the three most commonly prescribed wheelchair cushions (Roho, Jay, Pindot) for a person with SCI.<br><br>METHOD: The number of pressure sensors registering at the buttock-cushion interface during wheelchair sitting was measured by the Xsensor Pressure Mapping System after 5 min of sitting. An alternating treatments research design, with an initial baseline and a final treatment phase ending with the most effective cushion for relieving pressure, was used for the clinical evaluation. Measurements were compared using visual inspection and a Wilcoxon signed ranks test.<br><br>RESULTS: Data analyses indicated that the number of pressure sensors that registered potential harmful levels of pressure at the buttock-cushion interface for the Roho cushion was significantly less than those of the Jay and Pindot cushions.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The Roho cushion was more effective in relieving pressure at the seating surface than the Jay and Pindot cushions.}, }
@article {pmid11722546, year = {2001}, author = {Livermore, DM and Warner, M and Hall, LM and Enne, VI and Projan, SJ and Dunman, PM and Wooster, SL and Harrison, G}, title = {Antibiotic resistance in bacteria from magpies (Pica pica) and rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) from west Wales.}, journal = {Environmental microbiology}, volume = {3}, number = {10}, pages = {658-661}, doi = {10.1046/j.1462-2920.2001.00239.x}, pmid = {11722546}, issn = {1462-2912}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Birds/*microbiology ; Colony Count, Microbial/veterinary ; *Drug Resistance, Microbial ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple ; Escherichia coli/drug effects/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Intestines/*microbiology ; Prevalence ; Rabbits/*microbiology ; }, abstract = {The prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in wild animal and bird populations is largely unknown, with little consistency among the few published reports. We therefore examined intestinal bacteria from magpies (Pica pica) and rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) collected in rural west Wales. Escherichia coli isolates resistant to multiple antibiotics were grown from eight of 20 magpies trapped in spring, 1999 and one of 17 in spring, 2000; the most prevalent resistance trait among these isolates was to tetracycline, but resistances to ampicillin, chloramphenicol, kanamycin, sulphonamide, tetracycline and trimethoprim were also found. Tetracycline-resistant Enterococcus spp. were found in one of 20 magpies in 1999 and three of 17 in 2000. Only one resistant E. coli isolate was detected among gut bacteria from 13 rabbits, and this strain was resistant only to tetracycline. Differences in the prevalence of resistance between bacteria from rabbits and magpies may reflect differences in diet: rabbits graze field edges, whereas magpies are omnivorous and opportunistic. The resistance genes found in E. coli isolates from magpies mostly corresponded to those common among human isolates, but those conferring tetracycline resistance were unique.}, }
@article {pmid11720194, year = {2001}, author = {Yamamoto, T and Kuroda, M and Nishioka, K}, title = {Increased serum level of vascular endothelial growth factor in Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {Acta dermato-venereologica}, volume = {81}, number = {4}, pages = {317-318}, doi = {10.1080/00015550152573100}, pmid = {11720194}, issn = {0001-5555}, mesh = {Biomarkers/blood ; Endothelial Growth Factors/*blood ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay ; Female ; Humans ; Lymphokines/*blood ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*blood ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors ; }, }
@article {pmid11719804, year = {2001}, author = {Emery, NJ and Clayton, NS}, title = {Effects of experience and social context on prospective caching strategies by scrub jays.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {414}, number = {6862}, pages = {443-446}, doi = {10.1038/35106560}, pmid = {11719804}, issn = {0028-0836}, mesh = {Animals ; *Feeding Behavior ; Learning ; Social Behavior ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Social life has costs associated with competition for resources such as food. Food storing may reduce this competition as the food can be collected quickly and hidden elsewhere; however, it is a risky strategy because caches can be pilfered by others. Scrub jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) remember 'what', 'where' and 'when' they cached. Like other corvids, they remember where conspecifics have cached, pilfering them when given the opportunity, but may also adjust their own caching strategies to minimize potential pilfering. To test this, jays were allowed to cache either in private (when the other bird's view was obscured) or while a conspecific was watching, and then recover their caches in private. Here we show that jays with prior experience of pilfering another bird's caches subsequently re-cached food in new cache sites during recovery trials, but only when they had been observed caching. Jays without pilfering experience did not, even though they had observed other jays caching. Our results suggest that jays relate information about their previous experience as a pilferer to the possibility of future stealing by another bird, and modify their caching strategy accordingly.}, }
@article {pmid11712954, year = {2001}, author = {Wilson, BA and Gracey, F and Bainbridge, K}, title = {Cognitive recovery from "persistent vegetative state": psychological and personal perspectives.}, journal = {Brain injury}, volume = {15}, number = {12}, pages = {1083-1092}, doi = {10.1080/02699050110082197}, pmid = {11712954}, issn = {0269-9052}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition Disorders/etiology/*psychology/*rehabilitation ; Encephalomyelitis/complications/psychology/rehabilitation ; Female ; Humans ; Persistent Vegetative State/etiology/*psychology/*rehabilitation ; Psychological Tests ; }, abstract = {This study reports on the case of a young woman who, at the age of 26, developed a severe encephalomyelopathy and was in a vegetative state or minimally conscious state for 6 months. She showed a sleep-wake cycle, but no evidence of cognitive functioning. Six months after her illness, she began to respond to her environment and eventually returned home to the care of her parents, with regular periods of respite care in a home for people with severe physical disabilities. She remains in a wheelchair with a severe dysarthria and communicates via a letter board. Two years after her illness, staff at the home requested an assessment of her cognitive functioning. On the WAIS-R verbal scale and the Raven's Progressive Matrices, the woman's scores were in the normal range. So too were her recognition of real versus nonsense words and her memory functioning (apart from a visual recognition memory test which was in the impaired range). Although she enjoyed the tests, she became distressed when asked about her illness and previous hospitalization. She was reassessed 1 year later, when there were few significant changes in her test scores but she could talk about her illness and hospitalization without becoming distressed. She was angry, however, about her experiences in the first hospital. Further tests suggested good executive functioning. In short, this woman's cognitive functioning is in the normal range for most tasks assessed, despite a severe physical disability and dysarthria, and despite the fact that she was vegetative for 6 months. Although some recovery following 6 months of being vegetative/minimally conscious is not unknown, it is rare, particularly for those with non-traumatic injuries, and the majority of people similarly affected remain with significant cognitive deficits. This client has, by and large, made an almost complete cognitive recovery. She feels positive about her life now and says the formal assessment showed people she was not stupid and this made her happy. The paper concludes with the young woman's own comments and views about what happened to her and her present feelings.}, }
@article {pmid11707507, year = {2001}, author = {Boggs, DF and Baudinette, RV and Frappell, PB and Butler, PJ}, title = {The influence of locomotion on air-sac pressures in little penguins.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {204}, number = {Pt 20}, pages = {3581-3586}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.204.20.3581}, pmid = {11707507}, issn = {0022-0949}, mesh = {Abdominal Muscles/physiology ; Air Sacs/*physiology ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Electromyography ; Motor Activity/*physiology ; Muscle, Skeletal/physiology ; Oxygen Consumption ; Pressure ; Swimming/physiology ; Transducers, Pressure ; Walking/physiology ; Wings, Animal ; }, abstract = {Air-sac pressures have been reported to oscillate with wing beat in flying magpies and with foot paddling in diving ducks. We sought to determine the impact on air-sac pressure of wing beats during swimming and of the step cycle during walking in little penguins (Eudyptula minor). Fluctuations averaged 0.16+/-0.06 kPa in the interclavicular air sacs, but only 0.06+/-0.04 kPa in the posterior thoracic sac, generating a small differential pressure between sacs of 0.06+/-0.02 kPa (means +/- S.E.M., N=4). These fluctuations occurred at approximately 3 Hz and corresponded to wing beats during swimming, indicated by electromyograms from the pectoralis and supracoracoideus muscles. There was no abdominal muscle activity associated with swimming or exhalation, but the abdominal muscles were active with the step cycle in walking penguins, and oscillations in posterior air-sac pressure (0.08+/-0.038 kPa) occurred with steps. We conclude that high-frequency oscillations in differential air-sac pressure enhance access to and utilization of the O(2) stores in the air sacs during a dive.}, }
@article {pmid11707092, year = {2001}, author = {Davatzikos, C and Genc, A and Xu, D and Resnick, SM}, title = {Voxel-based morphometry using the RAVENS maps: methods and validation using simulated longitudinal atrophy.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {14}, number = {6}, pages = {1361-1369}, doi = {10.1006/nimg.2001.0937}, pmid = {11707092}, issn = {1053-8119}, support = {AG-93-07/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01-AG14971/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Atrophy ; *Brain Mapping ; Cerebral Cortex/*pathology ; Dominance, Cerebral/physiology ; Humans ; *Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; *Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; Longitudinal Studies ; *Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Mathematical Computing ; Normal Distribution ; Reference Values ; Reproducibility of Results ; Stereotaxic Techniques ; Temporal Lobe/pathology ; }, abstract = {Statistical analysis of anatomical maps in a stereotaxic space has been shown to be a useful tool in population-based studies for quantifying local anatomical differences or changes, without a priori assumptions about the location and extent of the regions of interest. This paper presents an extension and validation of a previously published methodology, referred to as RAVENS, for characterizing regional atrophy in the brain. A new method for elastic, volume-preserving spatial normalization, which allows for accurate quantification of very localized atrophy, is used. The RAVENS methodology was tested on images with simulated atrophy within two gyri: precentral and superior temporal. It was found to accurately determine the regions of atrophy, despite their localized nature and the interindividual variability of cortical structures. Moreover, it was found to perform substantially better than the voxel-based morphology method of SPM'99. Improved sensitivity was achieved at the expense of human effort involved in defining a number of sulcal curves that serve as constraints on the 3D elastic warping.}, }
@article {pmid11705708, year = {2001}, author = {Garver, DL and Holcomb, J and Mapua, FM and Wilson, R and Barnes, B}, title = {Schizophrenia spectrum disorders: an autosomal-wide scan in multiplex pedigrees.}, journal = {Schizophrenia research}, volume = {52}, number = {3}, pages = {145-160}, doi = {10.1016/s0920-9964(01)00157-8}, pmid = {11705708}, issn = {0920-9964}, mesh = {Chromosomes, Human/genetics ; Ethnicity/genetics ; Genetic Heterogeneity ; *Genetic Linkage ; *Genetic Predisposition to Disease ; Humans ; *Pedigree ; Phenotype ; Schizophrenia/ethnology/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Genome-wide linkage studies, examining the relationship between the schizophrenia syndrome(s) and possible susceptibility regions within the human genome have identified multiple regions within which linkage to the syndrome may be explored. No regions have been found to provide supportive evidence for linkage in all cohorts. These findings are consistent with the schizophrenia syndrome being genetically heterogeneous, with genetic susceptibility arising from multiple sites which are differentially distributed in from pedigree to pedigree. The authors present data from an autosomal-wide scan of 30 multiplex pedigrees, each with a mean of 4.1 members affected with a schizophrenia spectrum disorder with respect to regions of interest for linkage with the schizophrenia spectrum disease(s). Partial, though not significant replications of susceptibility sites at D1S518 (P=0.029) described by Shaw et al. (1998: Shaw, S.H., Kelly, M., Smith, A.B., Shields, G., Hopkins, P.J., Loftus, J., Laval, S.H., Vita, A., DeHert, M., Cardon, L.R., Crow, T.J., Sherrington, R., DeLisi, L.E., 1998. A Genome-wide search for schizophrenia susceptibility genes. Am. J. Med. Genet. (Neuropsychiatric Genet.) 81, 364-376.), and at D5S426 (P=0.015) described by : Silverman, J.M., Greenberg, D.A., Altstiel, L.D., Siever, L.J., Mohs, R.C., Smith, C.J., Zhou, G., Hollander, T.Y., Yang, X.-P., Kedache, M., Li, G., Zaccario, M.L., Davis, K.L., 1996. Evidence of a locus for schizophrenia and related disorders on the short arm of chromosome 5 in a large pedigree. Am. J. Med. Genet. 67, 162-171.) were documented using multipoint non-parametric (NPL) statistics. Two additional novel regions worthy of further investigation were identified at D1S1150 (P=0.004) and at D20S171 (P=0.009). Previously reported genomic regions of interest for the schizophrenias are reviewed in the context of the same/flanking markers utilized with the present cohort of pedigrees. The data further suggests that only a fraction of pedigrees multiplex for schizophrenia link at any single susceptibility region.}, }
@article {pmid11704322, year = {2001}, author = {Kupelian, PA and Reddy, CA and Klein, EA and Willoughby, TR}, title = {Short-course intensity-modulated radiotherapy (70 GY at 2.5 GY per fraction) for localized prostate cancer: preliminary results on late toxicity and quality of life.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {51}, number = {4}, pages = {988-993}, doi = {10.1016/s0360-3016(01)01730-8}, pmid = {11704322}, issn = {0360-3016}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Dose Fractionation, Radiation ; Follow-Up Studies ; Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage/etiology ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Quality of Life ; Radiation Injuries/*complications ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*adverse effects/methods ; Rectum/*radiation effects ; Urinary Bladder/*radiation effects ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To present our preliminary observations on the late toxicity and quality of life (QOL) of patients treated with short-course intensity-modulated radiotherapy (SCIM-RT).<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: Fifty-one patients were treated with SCIM-RT at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation between October 1998 and May 1999. The technique consisted of intensity-modulated radiotherapy using 5 static fields (anterior, 2 laterals, and 2 anterior obliques). Inverse plans were generated by the Corvus treatment-planning system. The treatment delivery was performed with a dynamic multileaf collimator. A total of 70.0 Gy was prescribed in all cases at 2.5 Gy per fraction to be delivered in 28 fractions over 5 and a half weeks. The location of the prostate gland was verified and adjusted daily with the BAT transabdominal ultrasound system. The median follow-up was 18 months (range: 11 to 26 months). The Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) scales were used to evaluate late toxicity. The Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC) was used to evaluate QOL. A total of 24 patients completed the EPIC questionnaire at approximately 2 years after therapy (median time from treatment to questionnaire administration: 24 months; range: 21 to 26 months). The results from the EPIC questionnaires were compared to scores from 46 patients treated during the same time period with conformal radiotherapy (CRT) to 78 Gy at 2 Gy per fraction.<br><br>RESULTS: The dose was prescribed to an isodose line ranging from 82.0% to 90.0% (mean: 87.2%). The range of the individual prostate mean doses was 73.5 to 78.5 Gy (average: 75.3 Gy). To date, only 1 patient had Grade 1 late urinary toxicity. To date, only 4 patients had Grade 1 late rectal toxicity. No Grade 2 or 3 late urinary or rectal complications have occurred. The actuarial rectal bleeding rate observed at 18 months was 7%. There were no differences in scores from the urinary, bowel, hormonal, and overall QOL domains between SCIM-RT patients and patients treated with CRT. The overall physical and mental QOL scores were also nearly identical to scores reported for the general U.S. population.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Preliminary late toxicity results up to 2 years after SCIM-RT are encouraging, with a median follow-up of 18 months (range 11 to 26 months). Late toxicity assessed by the physicians using RTOG late toxicity scores has been excellent. QOL reported by the patients using the EPIC questionnaire reveals no difference between patients treated with high-dose CRT at standard fractionation and patients treated with SCIM-RT. SCIM-RT is an alternative method of dose escalation in the treatment of localized prostate cancer. The proposed schedule significantly increases convenience to patients due to the decrease in overall treatment time.}, }
@article {pmid11702826, year = {2001}, author = {Jay, N}, title = {The older patient. Nita Jay interviewed by Elaine McClellan-Holm.}, journal = {Southern medical journal}, volume = {94}, number = {10}, pages = {990-991}, pmid = {11702826}, issn = {0038-4348}, mesh = {Aged ; Aging/*psychology ; *Education ; Female ; Humans ; }, }
@article {pmid11697945, year = {2001}, author = {Christoff, K and Prabhakaran, V and Dorfman, J and Zhao, Z and Kroger, JK and Holyoak, KJ and Gabrieli, JD}, title = {Rostrolateral prefrontal cortex involvement in relational integration during reasoning.}, journal = {NeuroImage}, volume = {14}, number = {5}, pages = {1136-1149}, doi = {10.1006/nimg.2001.0922}, pmid = {11697945}, issn = {1053-8119}, support = {AG112/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; AG12995/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Brain Mapping ; Discrimination Learning/physiology ; Female ; Hemodynamics/physiology ; Humans ; *Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Pattern Recognition, Visual/physiology ; Prefrontal Cortex/*physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Reaction Time/physiology ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; }, abstract = {Patient and neuroimaging studies indicate that complex reasoning tasks are associated with the prefrontal cortex (PFC). In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the process of relational integration, or considering multiple relations simultaneously, is a component process of complex reasoning that selectively recruits PFC. We used fMRI to examine brain activation during 0-relational, 1-relational, and 2-relational problems adapted from the Raven's Progressive Matrices and hypothesized that PFC would be preferentially recruited by the 2-relational problem type. Event-related responses were modeled by convolving a canonical hemodynamic response function with the response time (RT) associated with each trial. The results across different analyses revealed the same pattern: PFC activation was specific to the comparison between 2- and 1-relational problems and was not observed in the comparison between 1- and 0-relational problems. Furthermore, the process of relational integration was specifically associated with bilateral rostrolateral PFC (RLPFC; lateral area 10) and right dorsolateral PFC (areas 9 and 46). Left RLPFC showed the greatest specificity by remaining preferentially recruited during 2-relational problems even after comparisons were restricted to trials matched for RT and accuracy. The link between RLPFC and the process of relational integration may be due to the associated process of manipulating self-generated information, a process that may characterize RLPFC function.}, }
@article {pmid11672936, year = {2001}, author = {Derégnaucourt, S and Guyomarc'h, J and Richard, V}, title = {Classification of hybrid crows in quail using artificial neural networks.}, journal = {Behavioural processes}, volume = {56}, number = {2}, pages = {103-112}, doi = {10.1016/s0376-6357(01)00188-7}, pmid = {11672936}, issn = {1872-8308}, abstract = {In galliforms, calls are strongly determined genetically and no influence of learning has ever been demonstrated. Hybridization is a useful tool for investigating patterns of heritability. The vocal repertoire of the European quail (Coturnix c. coturnix) and of the Japanese quail (C. c. japonica) are similar except for their crows. The European quail possesses two forms of crows and the Japanese quail only one form. We produced hybrids from the following crosses; F(1), F(2) and backcrosses. Visual analysis of spectrograms showed that hybrid crows presented all intermediaries between the three forms of crows produced by the two subspecies. According to the level of analysis of a crow, visual classifications of spectrograms probably include some subjectivity. Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) are now widely used as a powerful classification technique in behavioural sciences. We trained an ANN to recognize the three crows of the two subspecies. Then we analysed its classification of hybrid crows. The ANN revealed important inter-individual variability between the crows of the F(1) and the F(2) crosses. Birds issued from backcrosses produced crows similar to those of the European quail to which they were backcrossed. This study confirms that ANN is a useful tool to classify spectrograms rapidly.}, }
@article {pmid11624666, year = {2000}, author = {Numbers, RL and Stenhouse, J}, title = {Antievolutionism in the Antipodes: from protesting evolution to promoting creationism in New Zealand.}, journal = {British journal for the history of science}, volume = {33}, number = {118 Pt 3}, pages = {335-350}, doi = {10.1017/s0007087499004045}, pmid = {11624666}, issn = {0007-0874}, mesh = {Australia ; *Biological Evolution ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; New Zealand ; Pacific Islands ; *Public Opinion ; *Religion and Science ; }, abstract = {Like other English-speaking peoples around the world, New Zealanders began debating Darwinism in the early 1860s, shortly after the publication of Charles Darwin's Origin of Species. Despite the opposition of some religious and political leaders - and even the odd scientist - biological evolution made deep inroads in a culture that increasingly identified itself as secular. The introduction of pro-evolution curricula and radio broadcasts provoked occasional antievolution outbursts, but creationism remained more an object of ridicule than a threat until the last decades of the twentieth century, when first American and then Australian creationists began fomenting antievolutionism among New Zealanders. Although Stephen Jay Gould assured them in 1986 that they had little to fear from so-called scientific creationism, because it was a 'peculiarly American' phenomenon, scientific creationism by the mid-1990s had captured the allegiance of an estimated five per cent of the country and proved especially attractive to Maori and Pacific Islanders. In 1992 New Zealand creationists formed their own antievolution society, Creation Science (NZ).}, }
@article {pmid11605427, year = {2001}, author = {Voronov, LN and Alekseev, VV}, title = {[Classification of the forebrain striatum neurons in birds].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {51}, number = {4}, pages = {477-483}, pmid = {11605427}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Corpus Striatum/anatomy &amp; histology/*cytology ; Neurons/*classification ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Polymorphism of neurons in the basic fields of the forebrain striatum of birds was described using specially developed classification of neurons in Nissl preparations. Birds with different degrees of development of elementary rational activity were studied: Corvus monedula, Columba livia, Coturnix coturnix, and Melopsittacus undulatus. According to the proposed method, the neurons were classified in 3 basic types and 2 additional, 6 subtypes and 26 classes. It was found that in the higher brain regions of Corvus monedula, birds with advanced rational activity, there are a greater variety and number of complex associative stellate cells than in birds with poorly developed rational activity (Columba livia and Coturnix coturnix).}, }
@article {pmid11604050, year = {2001}, author = {Ezzell, GA and Schild, SE and Wong, WW}, title = {Development of a treatment planning protocol for prostate treatments using intensity modulated radiotherapy.}, journal = {Journal of applied clinical medical physics}, volume = {2}, number = {2}, pages = {59-68}, pmid = {11604050}, issn = {1526-9914}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Prostatic Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging/*radiotherapy ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; Rectum/diagnostic imaging ; Reproducibility of Results ; Seminal Vesicles/diagnostic imaging ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; Urinary Bladder ; }, abstract = {We have developed a treatment planning protocol for intensity-modulated radiation therapy of the prostate using commercially available inverse planning software. Treatment plans were developed for ten patients using the Corvus version 3.8 planning system, testing various prescription options, including tissue types, dose volume histogram values for the target and normal structures, beam arrangements, and number of intensity levels. All plans were scaled so that 95% of the clinical target volume received 75.6 Gy; mean doses to the prostate were typically 79 Gy. The reproducibility of the inverse planning algorithm was tested by repeating a set of the plans five times. Plans were deemed acceptable if they satisfied predefined dose constraints for the targets and critical organs. Figures of merit for target coverage, target dose uniformity, and organ sparing were used to rank acceptable plans. Certain systematic behaviors of the optimizer were noted: the high dose regions for both targets and critical organs were 5-10 Gy more than prescribed; reducing bladder and rectum tolerance increased the range of doses within the target; increasing the number of fields incrementally improved plan quality. A set of planning parameters was found that usually satisfied the minimum requirements. Repeating the optimization with different beam order produced similar but slightly different dose distributions, which was sometimes useful for finding acceptable solutions for difficult cases. The standard set of parameters serves as a useful starting point for individualized planning.}, }
@article {pmid11602010, year = {2001}, author = {Ezzell, GA and Chungbin, S}, title = {The overshoot phenomenon in step-and-shoot IMRT delivery.}, journal = {Journal of applied clinical medical physics}, volume = {2}, number = {3}, pages = {138-148}, pmid = {11602010}, issn = {1526-9914}, mesh = {Computer Simulation ; Dose Fractionation, Radiation ; Film Dosimetry ; Head and Neck Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Humans ; Male ; *Medical Errors ; Particle Accelerators/*standards ; Prostatic Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Quality Control ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*instrumentation ; }, abstract = {The control loop in the Varian DMLC system (V4.8) requires approximately 65 msec to monitor and halt the irradiation of a segment, causing an "overshoot" effect: the segment ends on a fractional monitor unit larger than that planned. As a result, the actual MU delivered may differ from that planned. In general, for step-and-shoot treatments, the first segment receives more, the last receives less, and intermediate segments vary. The overshoot for each segment (DeltaMU) is small, approximately 0.6 MU at 600 MU/min. Our IMRT planning system (Corvus) produces plans often having more than 20% of the segments with less than 1 MU/segment. Such segments may be skipped if the DeltaMU exceeds the segments' planned MU. Furthermore, QA filming often requires reducing the total MU by a factor of 4-6, increasing the potential for dosimetric error. This study measured DeltaMU over a range of MU/min and MU/segment. At >5 MU/segment, the DeltaMU was stable, corresponding to a delay of 62 msec. DeltaMU became larger and more variable at <1 MU/segment. The behavior was modeled in a computer program that predicted the change in delivered MU/segment and total change in delivered MU to each beamlet. Beams were analyzed for patients receiving 5 field prostate or 9 field head and neck treatments. At 400 MU/min, 28% and 16%, respectively, of the planned segments were skipped. For QA filming, up to 75% of the segments were skipped. The cumulative error averaged <0.1 MU/beamlet, but individual beamlets had errors exceeding 200%. The effect is most significant for low dose regions. Recommendations are given for deciding when to treat or do QA studies with lower MU/min. In general, treatments are not significantly affected, but QA films taken at reduced MU may be improved if irradiated at lowered MU/min.}, }
@article {pmid11596849, year = {2001}, author = {DeLisi, LE}, title = {Speech disorder in schizophrenia: review of the literature and exploration of its relation to the uniquely human capacity for language.}, journal = {Schizophrenia bulletin}, volume = {27}, number = {3}, pages = {481-496}, doi = {10.1093/oxfordjournals.schbul.a006889}, pmid = {11596849}, issn = {0586-7614}, mesh = {Adult ; Biological Evolution ; Chronic Disease ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Schizophrenia/*complications/diagnosis/genetics ; Severity of Illness Index ; Speech Disorders/*complications/diagnosis/genetics ; }, abstract = {The language capacity of modern humans is thought by some to be clearly distinct from that of nonhuman primates (Bickerton 1990). Crow (1997, 1998a) has proposed that a disturbance in the uniquely human aspects of language is central to the genetic etiology of schizophrenia. A review of the literature on language disorder in schizophrenia provides evidence for widespread deficits in comprehension, production, attention, and cerebral lateralization of language. We focused here on those anomalies that are uniquely human aspects of language. Bickerton's five distinctly human language devices were examined in patients with schizophrenia and their families by using a structured scoring format on oral soliloquies. The chronic patients showed reduced use of clausal embedding and used fewer words than first episode patients or well family members. The amount of sentence complexity was found to be familial and to cosegregate with schizophrenia within families. These data are consistent with previous literature and additionally show a familial component to these measures, thus suggesting that deficits in specifically human aspects of language may be related to the genetics of schizophrenia.}, }
@article {pmid11595987, year = {2001}, author = {Marfin, AA and Gubler, DJ}, title = {West Nile encephalitis: an emerging disease in the United States.}, journal = {Clinical infectious diseases : an official publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America}, volume = {33}, number = {10}, pages = {1713-1719}, doi = {10.1086/322700}, pmid = {11595987}, issn = {1058-4838}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; Birds/virology ; Communicable Diseases, Emerging/*epidemiology ; *Disease Outbreaks ; Horse Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; Horses/virology ; Humans ; Songbirds ; United States/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/therapy/transmission/veterinary ; West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {In 1999, an epidemic of West Nile virus (WNV) encephalitis occurred in New York City (NYC) and 2 surrounding New York counties. Simultaneously, an epizootic among American crows and other bird species occurred in 4 states. Indigenous transmission of WNV had never been documented in the western hemisphere until this epidemic. In 2000, the epizootic expanded to 12 states and the District of Columbia, and the epidemic continued in NYC, 5 New Jersey counties, and 1 Connecticut county. In addition to these outbreaks, several large epidemics of WNV have occurred in other regions of the world where this disease was absent or rare >5 years ago. Many of the WNV strains isolated during recent outbreaks demonstrate an extremely high degree of homology that strongly suggests widespread circulation of potentially epidemic strains of WNV. The high rates of severe neurologic illness and death among humans, horses, and birds in these outbreaks are unprecedented and unexplained. We review the current status of WNV in the United States.}, }
@article {pmid11593951, year = {2001}, author = {Durbrow, EH and Schaefer, BA and Jimerson, SR}, title = {Learning-related behaviours versus cognitive ability in the academic performance of Vincentian children.}, journal = {The British journal of educational psychology}, volume = {71}, number = {Pt 3}, pages = {471-483}, doi = {10.1348/000709901158622}, pmid = {11593951}, issn = {0007-0998}, mesh = {*Achievement ; Adolescent ; Anxiety/psychology ; *Aptitude ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Developing Countries ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; *Learning ; Male ; Personality Assessment ; Social Environment ; West Indies ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The few studies of children's academic performance in developing countries have largely focused on effects of early risks and cognitive ability and usually neglected other factors such as attention and anxiety. Previously, we reported that scores on the Learning Behaviour Scale (LBS) and the Revised Behaviour Problem Checklist (RBPC) were correlated with academic scores and achievement test scores for village children in St Vincent, the West Indies.<br><br>AIMS: We examined the stability of LBS and RBPC scores and their ability to predict academic and achievement scores in the same population.<br><br>SAMPLE: Vincentian village children, ages 6-12, participated in the study: 65 participated in the one-year sample and 68 participated in the two-year sample.<br><br>METHOD: Children completed a curriculum-based achievement test and the Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices. Teachers completed the LBS and an adjusted RBPC and reported children's academic scores in 1998 and 1999.<br><br>RESULTS: LBS scores were stable over one year and RBPC scores were stable over two years. LBS, RBPC, and Raven scores predicted achievement and academic scores. For both academic scores and achievement test scores, the greatest improvement in prediction came when the RBPC's attention and anxiety subscales were added to regression models.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Results provide additional support for the finding that Caribbean village children's academic performance is greatly influenced by attention and anxiety problems, not just their cognitive ability. Despite cultural differences, LBS and RBPC scores were as predictive of academic performance in this population as in American populations. The best way to improve academic performance for these children may be to reduce attention problems.}, }
@article {pmid11592255, year = {2001}, author = {Panella, NA and Kerst, AJ and Lanciotti, RS and Bryant, P and Wolf, B and Komar, N}, title = {Comparative West Nile virus detection in organs of naturally infected American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos).}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {7}, number = {4}, pages = {754-755}, pmid = {11592255}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Bird Diseases/pathology/*virology ; *Disease Outbreaks ; New Jersey/epidemiology ; RNA, Viral/analysis ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Songbirds/*virology ; West Nile Fever/pathology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Widespread deaths of American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos)were associated with the 1999 outbreak of West Nile (WN) virus in the New York City region. We compared six organs from 20 crow carcasses as targets for WN virus detection. Half the carcasses had at least one positive test result for WN virus infection. The brain was the most sensitive test organ; it was the only positive organ for three of the positive crows. The sensitivity of crow organs as targets for WN virus detection makes crow death useful for WN virus surveillance.}, }
@article {pmid11589045, year = {2001}, author = {Chelomina, G and Kryukov, A and Suzuki, H}, title = {Phylogenetic relationships of three species of crows (Corvidae, Aves) based on the restriction site variation of nuclear ribosomal RNA gene.}, journal = {TSitologiia i genetika}, volume = {35}, number = {1}, pages = {52-57}, pmid = {11589045}, issn = {0564-3783}, mesh = {Animals ; Cell Nucleus/genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal/*genetics ; Evolution, Molecular ; Genetic Variation ; Phylogeny ; Repetitive Sequences, Nucleic Acid ; Restriction Mapping ; Songbirds/*genetics ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Southern blot analysis of nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) was carried out to examine phylogenetic relationships between three species of crows: Corvus cornix, C. corone and C. macrorhynchos. In this purpose DNA samples of birds were digested by 12 restriction enzymes (EcoRI, HindIII, PstI, BamHI, DraI, PvuII, KpnI, XbaI, BglII, BclI, SacI and AatI) and hybridized with the clones of mouse rDNA probes (18S, 28S and INT). Based on the data obtained and Gallus gallus restriction map as a standard the restriction site maps of the main rDNA repeating unit types (repetypes) were constructed. The length of crow rDNA genes was estimated to be 22.5 kb for Jungle and 22.0 kb for Hooded and Carrion crows. C. corone and C. cornix shared a common repetype which differed, by presence of two restriction sites (XbaI and PvuII) in the spacer region, from that of C. macrorhynchos with the estimated sequence divergence of 0.26%. Restriction-size variation was revealed between individuals of C. corone and C. cornix, although the substantial meanings of this variation remain unclear yet. These data suggest that the crow species evolve with slower rate of molecular evolution, as generally observed in other avian species, compared with the higher extent in external morphology, ecological features and behavior.}, }
@article {pmid11585532, year = {2001}, author = {Bernard, KA and Maffei, JG and Jones, SA and Kauffman, EB and Ebel, G and Dupuis, AP and Ngo, KA and Nicholas, DC and Young, DM and Shi, PY and Kulasekera, VL and Eidson, M and White, DJ and Stone, WB and Kramer, LD and , }, title = {West Nile virus infection in birds and mosquitoes, New York State, 2000.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {7}, number = {4}, pages = {679-685}, pmid = {11585532}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Aedes/virology ; Animals ; Anopheles/virology ; Bird Diseases/mortality/*virology ; Birds/classification/*virology ; Culex/virology ; Culicidae/*virology ; Disease Reservoirs/*veterinary ; Humans ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; New York/epidemiology ; Songbirds/classification/virology ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {West Nile (WN) virus was found throughout New York State in 2000, with the epicenter in New York City and surrounding counties. We tested 3,403 dead birds and 9,954 mosquito pools for WN virus during the transmission season. Sixty-three avian species, representing 30 families and 14 orders, tested positive for WN virus. The highest proportion of dead birds that tested positive for WN virus was in American Crows in the epicenter (67% positive, n=907). Eight mosquito species, representing four genera, were positive for WN virus. The minimum infection rate per 1,000 mosquitoes (MIR) was highest for Culex pipiens in the epicenter: 3.53 for the entire season and 7.49 for the peak week of August 13. Staten Island had the highest MIR (11.42 for Cx. pipiens), which was associated with the highest proportion of dead American Crows that tested positive for WN virus (92%, n=48) and the highest number of human cases (n=10).}, }
@article {pmid11585530, year = {2001}, author = {Andreadis, TG and Anderson, JF and Vossbrinck, CR}, title = {Mosquito surveillance for West Nile virus in Connecticut, 2000: isolation from Culex pipiens, Cx. restuans, Cx. salinarius, and Culiseta melanura.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {7}, number = {4}, pages = {670-674}, pmid = {11585530}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Animals ; Chlorocebus aethiops ; Connecticut/epidemiology ; Culex/classification/*virology ; Culicidae/classification/*virology ; Insect Vectors/classification/*virology ; Sentinel Surveillance/*veterinary ; Vero Cells ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/virology ; West Nile virus/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Fourteen isolations of West Nile (WN) virus were obtained from four mosquito species (Culex pipiens [5], Cx. restuans [4], Cx. salinarius [2], and Culiseta melanura [3]) in statewide surveillance conducted from June through October 2000. Most isolates were obtained from mosquitoes collected in densely populated residential locales in Fairfield and New Haven counties, where the highest rates of dead crow sightings were reported and where WN virus was detected in 1999. Minimum field infection rates per 1,000 mosquitoes ranged from 0.5 to 1.8 (county based) and from 1.3 to 76.9 (site specific). Cx. restuans appears to be important in initiating WN virus transmission among birds in early summer; Cx. pipiens appears to play a greater role in amplifying virus later in the season. Cs. melanura could be important in the circulation of WN virus among birds in sylvan environments; Cx. salinarius is a suspected vector of WN virus to humans and horses.}, }
@article {pmid11585529, year = {2001}, author = {Eidson, M and Miller, J and Kramer, L and Cherry, B and Hagiwara, Y and , }, title = {Dead crow densities and human cases of West Nile virus, New York State, 2000.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {7}, number = {4}, pages = {662-664}, pmid = {11585529}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*mortality/virology ; Disease Reservoirs/*veterinary ; Humans ; New York/epidemiology ; New York City/epidemiology ; Population Surveillance ; Songbirds/*virology ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/mortality/veterinary ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {In 2000, Staten Island, New York, reported 10 human West Nile virus cases and high densities of dead crows. Surrounding counties with <2 human cases had moderate dead crow densities, and upstate counties with no human cases had low dead crow densities. Monitoring such densities may be helpful because this factor may be determined without the delays associated with specimen collection and testing.}, }
@article {pmid11585525, year = {2001}, author = {Hadler, J and Nelson, R and McCarthy, T and Andreadis, T and Lis, MJ and French, R and Beckwith, W and Mayo, D and Archambault, G and Cartter, M}, title = {West Nile virus surveillance in Connecticut in 2000: an intense epizootic without high risk for severe human disease.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {7}, number = {4}, pages = {636-642}, pmid = {11585525}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/mortality/*virology ; Birds/virology ; Connecticut/epidemiology ; Culex/virology ; Culicidae/virology ; Disease Reservoirs/*veterinary ; Horse Diseases/epidemiology/mortality/*virology ; Horses/virology ; Humans ; Insect Vectors/virology ; *Population Surveillance/methods ; Prospective Studies ; Risk Factors ; Sentinel Surveillance/*veterinary ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; Songbirds ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/mortality/veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {In 1999, Connecticut was one of three states in which West Nile (WN) virus actively circulated prior to its recognition. In 2000, prospective surveillance was established, including monitoring bird deaths, testing dead crows, trapping and testing mosquitoes, testing horses and hospitalized humans with neurologic illness, and conducting a human seroprevalence survey. WN virus was first detected in a dead crow found on July 5 in Fairfield County. Ultimately, 1,095 dead crows, 14 mosquito pools, 7 horses, and one mildly symptomatic person were documented with WN virus infection. None of 86 hospitalized persons with neurologic illness (meningitis, encephalitis, Guillain-Barré-like syndrome) and no person in the seroprevalence survey were infected. Spraying in response to positive surveillance findings was minimal. An intense epizootic of WN virus can occur without having an outbreak of severe human disease in the absence of emergency adult mosquito management.}, }
@article {pmid11585524, year = {2001}, author = {Eidson, M and Kramer, L and Stone, W and Hagiwara, Y and Schmit, K and , }, title = {Dead bird surveillance as an early warning system for West Nile virus.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {7}, number = {4}, pages = {631-635}, pmid = {11585524}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/classification/*virology ; Disease Reservoirs/*veterinary ; Humans ; New York/epidemiology ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Sentinel Surveillance/*veterinary ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {As part of West Nile (WN) virus surveillance in New York State in 2000, 71,332 ill or dead birds were reported; 17,571 (24.6%) of these were American Crows. Of 3,976 dead birds tested, 1,263 (31.8%) were positive for WN virus. Viral activity was first confirmed in 60 of the state's 62 counties with WN virus-positive dead birds. Pathologic findings compatible with WN virus were seen in 1,576 birds (39.6% of those tested), of which 832 (52.8%) were positive for WN virus. Dead crow reports preceded confirmation of viral activity by several months, and WN virus-positive birds were found >3 months before the onset of human cases. Dead bird surveillance appears to be valuable for early detection of WN virus and for guiding public education and mosquito control efforts.}, }
@article {pmid11585521, year = {2001}, author = {Eidson, M and Komar, N and Sorhage, F and Nelson, R and Talbot, T and Mostashari, F and McLean, R and , }, title = {Crow deaths as a sentinel surveillance system for West Nile virus in the northeastern United States, 1999.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {7}, number = {4}, pages = {615-620}, pmid = {11585521}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*mortality/virology ; *Disease Outbreaks ; Disease Reservoirs/*veterinary ; Humans ; Mid-Atlantic Region/epidemiology ; Sentinel Surveillance/*veterinary ; Songbirds/*virology ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/mortality/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {In addition to human encephalitis and meningitis cases, the West Nile (WN) virus outbreak in the summer and fall of 1999 in New York State resulted in bird deaths in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. From August to December 1999, 295 dead birds were laboratory-confirmed with WN virus infection; 262 (89%) were American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos). The New York State Department of Health received reports of 17,339 dead birds, including 5,697 (33%) crows; in Connecticut 1,040 dead crows were reported. Bird deaths were critical in identifying WN virus as the cause of the human outbreak and defining its geographic and temporal limits. If established before a WN virus outbreak, a surveillance system based on bird deaths may provide a sensitive method of detecting WN virus.}, }
@article {pmid11574436, year = {2001}, author = {McAulay, V and Deary, IJ and Ferguson, SC and Frier, BM}, title = {Acute hypoglycemia in humans causes attentional dysfunction while nonverbal intelligence is preserved.}, journal = {Diabetes care}, volume = {24}, number = {10}, pages = {1745-1750}, doi = {10.2337/diacare.24.10.1745}, pmid = {11574436}, issn = {0149-5992}, mesh = {Adult ; *Attention ; Blood Glucose/analysis ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology ; Female ; Glucose Clamp Technique ; Hearing ; Humans ; Hyperinsulinism ; Hypoglycemia/*complications ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Memory ; Verbal Behavior ; Vision, Ocular ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Experimentally induced hypoglycemia in humans causes progressive but reversible cognitive dysfunction, but it is not known to what extent neuropsychological tests index abilities of cognitive functioning that are important in everyday life. This study examines the effects of acute insulin-induced hypoglycemia on attention and intelligence in nondiabetic humans.<br><br>RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A hyperinsulinemic glucose clamp was used to achieve controlled euglycemia (4.50 [0.22] mmol/l) and hypoglycemia (blood glucose 2.59 [0.19] mmol/l) in 20 healthy volunteers. Subjects were studied on two occasions in a counterbalanced order. During each study condition, subjects completed parallel tests of cognitive function. Cognitive function was assessed by the Test of Everyday Attention and Raven's Progressive Matrices.<br><br>RESULTS: Hypoglycemia induced a significant deterioration in tests sensitive to both visual and auditory selective attention. During hypoglycemia, attentional flexibility deteriorated and speed of information processing was delayed. Sustained attention was preserved and intelligence scores did not deteriorate during hypoglycemia.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: During hypoglycemia, a significant deterioration occurs in attentional abilities, whereas fluid intelligence is preserved. On the basis of these results, it can be surmised that many complex attention tasks relevant to everyday life are impaired during moderate hypoglycemia.}, }
@article {pmid11574054, year = {2001}, author = {Serres, MH and Gopal, S and Nahum, LA and Liang, P and Gaasterland, T and Riley, M}, title = {A functional update of the Escherichia coli K-12 genome.}, journal = {Genome biology}, volume = {2}, number = {9}, pages = {RESEARCH0035}, pmid = {11574054}, issn = {1474-760X}, support = {R01 RR007861/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; R01 RR07861/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Bacterial Proteins/*genetics/physiology ; Chromosomes, Bacterial/genetics ; Escherichia coli/*genetics ; Genes, Bacterial/*physiology ; *Genome, Bacterial ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Since the genome of Escherichia coli K-12 was initially annotated in 1997, additional functional information based on biological characterization and functions of sequence-similar proteins has become available. On the basis of this new information, an updated version of the annotated chromosome has been generated.<br><br>RESULTS: The E. coli K-12 chromosome is currently represented by 4,401 genes encoding 116 RNAs and 4,285 proteins. The boundaries of the genes identified in the GenBank Accession U00096 were used. Some protein-coding sequences are compound and encode multimodular proteins. The coding sequences (CDSs) are represented by modules (protein elements of at least 100 amino acids with biological activity and independent evolutionary history). There are 4,616 identified modules in the 4,285 proteins. Of these, 48.9% have been characterized, 29.5% have an imputed function, 2.1% have a phenotype and 19.5% have no function assignment. Only 7% of the modules appear unique to E. coli, and this number is expected to be reduced as more genome data becomes available. The imputed functions were assigned on the basis of manual evaluation of functions predicted by BLAST and DARWIN analyses and by the MAGPIE genome annotation system.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Much knowledge has been gained about functions encoded by the E. coli K-12 genome since the 1997 annotation was published. The data presented here should be useful for analysis of E. coli gene products as well as gene products encoded by other genomes.}, }
@article {pmid11571038, year = {2001}, author = {Clayton, NS and Griffiths, DP and Emery, NJ and Dickinson, A}, title = {Elements of episodic-like memory in animals.}, journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences}, volume = {356}, number = {1413}, pages = {1483-1491}, doi = {10.1098/rstb.2001.0947}, pmid = {11571038}, issn = {0962-8436}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Memory/*physiology ; }, abstract = {A number of psychologists have suggested that episodic memory is a uniquely human phenomenon and, until recently, there was little evidence that animals could recall a unique past experience and respond appropriately. Experiments on food-caching memory in scrub jays question this assumption. On the basis of a single caching episode, scrub jays can remember when and where they cached a variety of foods that differ in the rate at which they degrade, in a way that is inexplicable by relative familiarity. They can update their memory of the contents of a cache depending on whether or not they have emptied the cache site, and can also remember where another bird has hidden caches, suggesting that they encode rich representations of the caching event. They make temporal generalizations about when perishable items should degrade and also remember the relative time since caching when the same food is cached in distinct sites at different times. These results show that jays form integrated memories for the location, content and time of caching. This memory capability fulfils Tulving's behavioural criteria for episodic memory and is thus termed 'episodic-like'. We suggest that several features of episodic memory may not be unique to humans.}, }
@article {pmid11569749, year = {2001}, author = {Butler, KL and Fitzgerald, SD and Berry, DE and Church, SV and Reed, WM and Kaneene, JB}, title = {Experimental inoculation of European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) and American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) with Mycobacterium bovis.}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {45}, number = {3}, pages = {709-718}, pmid = {11569749}, issn = {0005-2086}, mesh = {Administration, Oral ; Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Bird Diseases/*microbiology/pathology ; Body Weight ; Deer ; Injections, Intraperitoneal/veterinary ; Liver/pathology ; Mycobacterium bovis/*pathogenicity ; Organ Size ; Pilot Projects ; Songbirds/*microbiology ; Tuberculosis/microbiology/pathology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this series of pilot studies was to determine whether the passerine species studied are susceptible to infection with Mycobacterium bovis. Separate experiments were conducted on wild-caught starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) and American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos). In each experiment, four birds were challenged intraperitoneally and four were challenged orally with microorganisms. Challenge dose was 1 x 10(5) colony-forming units of M. bovis cultured from a white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) case in Michigan. Birds were euthanatized at 1 and 2 mo postinoculation. Histologic lesions suggestive of mycobacteriosis, without the presence of acid-fast bacilli, were noted in all experimental groups. Mycobacterial cultures performed on pooled tissue samples were positive for M. bovis in only some of the intraperitoneal inoculates of each species.}, }
@article {pmid11566209, year = {2001}, author = {Griffiths, DP and Clayton, NS}, title = {Testing episodic memory in animals: a new approach.}, journal = {Physiology &amp; behavior}, volume = {73}, number = {5}, pages = {755-762}, doi = {10.1016/s0031-9384(01)00532-7}, pmid = {11566209}, issn = {0031-9384}, support = {N0T-99-022//PHS HHS/United States ; NS35465/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Appetitive Behavior/*physiology ; Attention/*physiology ; Brain/physiology ; Genetics, Behavioral ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; Mice ; Mice, Knockout/genetics ; Mice, Transgenic/genetics ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Episodic memory involves the encoding and storage of memories concerned with unique personal experiences and their subsequent recall, and it has long been the subject of intensive investigation in humans. According to Tulving's classical definition, episodic memory "receives and stores information about temporally dated episodes or events and temporal-spatial relations among these events." Thus, episodic memory provides information about the 'what' and 'when' of events ('temporally dated experiences') and about 'where' they happened ('temporal-spatial relations'). The storage and subsequent recall of this episodic information was thought to be beyond the memory capabilities of nonhuman animals. Although there are many laboratory procedures for investigating memory for discrete past episodes, until recently there were no previous studies that fully satisfied the criteria of Tulving's definition: they can all be explained in much simpler terms than episodic memory. However, current studies of memory for cache sites in food-storing jays provide an ethologically valid model for testing episodic-like memory in animals, thereby bridging the gap between human and animal studies memory. There is now a pressing need to adapt these experimental tests of episodic memory for other animals. Given the potential power of transgenic and knock-out procedures for investigating the genetic and molecular bases of learning and memory in laboratory rodents, not to mention the wealth of knowledge about the neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of the rodent hippocampus (a brain area heavily implicated in episodic memory), an obvious next step is to develop a rodent model of episodic-like memory based on the food-storing bird paradigm. The development of a rodent model system could make an important contribution to our understanding of the neural, molecular, and behavioral mechanisms of mammalian episodic memory.}, }
@article {pmid11561971, year = {2001}, author = {Berg, M and Johansson, M and Montell, H and Berg, AL}, title = {Wild birds as a possible natural reservoir of Borna disease virus.}, journal = {Epidemiology and infection}, volume = {127}, number = {1}, pages = {173-178}, doi = {10.1017/s0950268801005702}, pmid = {11561971}, issn = {0950-2688}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*virology ; Borna disease virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; Disease Reservoirs/*veterinary ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; }, abstract = {The natural reservoir of Borna disease virus (BDV) is unknown. In this paper, we show that mallards (Anas platyrhyncos) and jackdaws (Corvus monedula) can be subclinically infected carriers of this virus. From faecal samples collected at a bird pond, we were able to amplify fragments of the BDV p24 and p40 genes. Following cloning and sequencing, a phylogenetic analysis revealed that these birds carry strains of BDV closely related to but distinct from the reference strains BDV V and He/80. To our knowledge, this is the first confirmed finding of BDV in wild birds.}, }
@article {pmid11560686, year = {2000}, author = {Emerson, J and Enderby, P}, title = {Concerns of speech-impaired people and those communicating with them.}, journal = {Health &amp; social care in the community}, volume = {8}, number = {3}, pages = {172-179}, doi = {10.1046/j.1365-2524.2000.00240.x}, pmid = {11560686}, issn = {1365-2524}, abstract = {This study investigated the perception and experiences of people with speech impairments and of the general public when communicating with speech impaired people. The aim was to identify the actual concerns of people and factors that make communication easier or more difficult, to inform treatment programmes and information. A triangulated approach was used. Discussion groups were held with members of the public, in-depth interviews were conducted with speech-impaired people and an experimental study examined encounters between speech-impaired people and shop workers. In a partial replication of the work of Crow (1988) the views of speech-impaired people were elicited by a questionnaire. Concerns identified in group discussions related to the importance of time and the need for information. The experiment suggested that the type of speech impairment might influence attitudes. Findings from the questionnaire and the interviews emphasized the importance of taking time and being assertive. The limitations of the findings and the possible service implications are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid11558237, year = {2001}, author = {Roslik, GV and Kriukov, AP}, title = {[Karyological study of some Corvine birds (Corvidae, aves)].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {37}, number = {7}, pages = {962-973}, pmid = {11558237}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Animals ; Chromosome Banding ; Chromosomes/*genetics ; Evolution, Molecular ; Female ; Genotype ; Karyotyping ; Male ; Songbirds/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Karyotypes were studied in the hooded and carrion crows, their naturally occurred hybrids, the jungle crow, the azure-winged magpie (2n = 80 in all aforementioned birds), and the magpie (2n = 82). Corvine birds of Primorskii Krai were karyotyped for the first time. In addition to the similarity in the diploid chromosome sets, corvine birds were shown to have a similar structure of karyotype: in all studied birds, 14 macrochromosomes (Mchs) classified into three groups according to their size were detected. By karyotype structure, birds belonging to the same genus are similar. Some intergeneric differences are due to a change in the position of centromeres of the largest and sex chromosomes. Karyotypes of interspecific hybrids of crows are remarkable for the presence of heteromorphic (t/st) chromosome pair 2 in some individuals, which apparently does not affect their fecundity. Using differential C-banding, the sex chromosome W in female magpies was identified. In addition, heteromorphism was detected in C-bands of homologs of Mch pair 4 in the hooded crow. In the jungle crow, the azure-winged magpie, and the magpie, bright QH-bands and numerous G-bands were detected on Mchs and on some microchromosomes only. Active Ag-NOR-bands were detected on one macrochromosome pair in the magpie. In all, the karyotype structure of corvine birds is comparable to the basic structural scheme of the karyotype in the order Passeriformes, which confirms the concept of conservatism of the avian karyotype.}, }
@article {pmid11552321, year = {2001}, author = {Böni, R and Kargl, A and Kreyden, OP and Burg, G}, title = {[Treatment of hyperfunctional facial lines with botulinum toxin].}, journal = {Praxis}, volume = {90}, number = {34}, pages = {1408-1412}, pmid = {11552321}, issn = {1661-8157}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Facial Muscles/*drug effects ; Female ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Isometric Contraction/*drug effects ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Retreatment ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {Lines and wrinkles in the face are not only due to intrinsic and photoaging, but are also caused by lines of facial expression due to muscular action. Botulinum toxin A, which blocks the cholinergic transmission resulting in flaccid paralysis, is a powerful therapeutic tool in the treatment of frown lines, glabellar lines, crow-feet and platysma-bands. It has to be kept in mind, however, that the benefits of this treatment are transient and repeated injections are necessary. A treatment guide with injection sides and concentration of the toxin is presented in the context of the current literature.}, }
@article {pmid11548582, year = {2001}, author = {Bochkov, AV}, title = {[On systematics of mites of the genus Syringophiloidus (Acari: Syringophilidae) from the european part of Russia].}, journal = {Parazitologiia}, volume = {35}, number = {2}, pages = {149-154}, pmid = {11548582}, issn = {0031-1847}, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Male ; Mites/*classification ; Russia ; }, abstract = {A new species Syringophiloidus delichonum sp. n. (Acari: Syringophilidae) is described from quills of Delichon urbica (Hirundinidae) and S. glandarii (Fritsch, 1958) from Garrulus glandarius (Corvidae) is redescribed. Syringophiloidus glandarii, female: body length 650-680, width 160-180. Peritremes: longitudinal branch with 11-14 chambers, lateral--with 2 chambers. All propodosomal setae slightly serrate. Length of setae: vi 33-36, ve 87-96, sci 150-180, sce 180-240, h 200-230, dl 210-230, d2 140-170, d4 25-32, d5 33-40, l1 190-210, l2 150-170, l4 250-280, l5 310-320, pg1 140-150, pg2 120-160, pg3 190-200, g1, g2 40-45, a1, a2 25-33. Male. Body length 500-520, width 150-170. Peritremes: longitudinal branch with 13-14 chambers, lateral with 4 chambers. Length of setae: vi 32-36, ve 50-56, sci 74-80, sce 120-135, h 90-100, d1 135-140, d2 13-22, d5 20-22, l1 24-45, l2 13-22, l5 180-200, pg1 90-110, pg2 70-90. S. glandarii is closely related to S. presentalis Chirov et Kravsova, 1995. It is distinguished from the latter species by following characters. In female S. glandarii, setae vi, ve are thick and serrate, ve 87-96 in length. In female S. presentalis, setae vi, ve are thin and nude, ve 40-70 in length. Syringophiloidus delichonum sp. n., female (holotype): body length 900, width 135. Peritremes: longitudinal branch with 8 chambers, lateral--with 1-2 chambers. All setae nude. Length of setae: vi 45, ve 90, sci 200, sce 200, h 225, d2 90, d4 35, d5 33, l1 140, l2 ?, 155-160 in paratypes, l4 230, l5 320, pg1 135, pg2 120, pg3 170, g1, g2 40, a1, a2 17. Male Body length 506, width 135. Peritremes: longitudinal branch with 9 chambers, lateral with 2 chambers. Length of setae; vi 33, ve 78, sci 90, sce 123, h 130, d1 135, d2 15, d5 17, l1 22, l2 15, l5 180, pg1 105, pg2 45. S. delichonum sp. n. is closely related to S. presentalis, but differs by following characters. In female S. delichonum sp. n., body length is 850-920; longitudinal branch of peritreme includes 6-8 chambers; setae ve 85-90 in length; in male, longitudinal branch of peritreme include 9 chambers. In female S. glandarii, body length 630-700; longitudinal branch of peritreme include 10-11 chambers; setae ve 40-70 in length; in male, longitudinal branch of peritreme include 11-13 chambers.}, }
@article {pmid11527553, year = {2001}, author = {Henkel, V and Mergl, R and Juckel, G and Rujescu, D and Mavrogiorgou, P and Giegling, I and Möller, H and Hegerl, U}, title = {Assessment of handedness using a digitizing tablet: a new method.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {39}, number = {11}, pages = {1158-1166}, doi = {10.1016/s0028-3932(01)00043-4}, pmid = {11527553}, issn = {0028-3932}, mesh = {Adult ; Brain/physiology ; Female ; Functional Laterality/*physiology ; Humans ; Male ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; Schizophrenia/*diagnosis ; Schizophrenic Psychology ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; }, abstract = {The assessment of handedness is of interest in some psychiatric populations, above all in schizophrenic patients, because there may be a relationship between neurodevelopmental, hemispheric damage and psychiatric disease processes (Crow TJ. Schizophrenia Bulletin 1990;16:433-443; Tyler M, Diamond J, Lewis S. Schizophrenia Research 1995;18:37-41). Various methods to assess handedness have been proposed. In order to detect the most precise instrument for the assessment of handedness, two different measures, a questionnaire and a computational procedure for movement analysis, were compared in a group of healthy subjects. The ability of the methods to discriminate not only between the groups of right-handers (n=12) and left-handers (n=23), but also between left-handers trained in school to use the non-dominant right hand ('inconsistent' left-handers; n=11) and those allowed to use their left hand for writing ('consistent' left-handers; n=12) was investigated. For future investigations, our main concern was to determine if one method had superiority over the other. The results revealed that the Edinburgh Handedness Inventory (EHI) distinguishes just as well as the computational method between right-handers and non-right-handers. However, more precise discrimination between the subgroups of 'consistent' and 'inconsistent' left-handers is possible using digitized analysis of hand-motor performance. According to our results handedness should be assessed not only with the EHI, but also with the computer-aided analysis of hand-movements.}, }
@article {pmid11518436, year = {2001}, author = {Hadas-Lidor, N and Katz, N and Tyano, S and Weizman, A}, title = {Effectiveness of dynamic cognitive intervention in rehabilitation of clients with schizophrenia.}, journal = {Clinical rehabilitation}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {349-359}, doi = {10.1191/026921501678310153}, pmid = {11518436}, issn = {0269-2155}, mesh = {Activities of Daily Living ; Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Cognition ; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/*methods ; Community Mental Health Services/standards ; Female ; Humans ; Israel ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Schizophrenia/etiology/*rehabilitation ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Self Concept ; Social Adjustment ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To examine the efficacy of dynamic cognitive treatment in rehabilitation of schizophrenic clients.<br><br>SUBJECTS: Fifty-eight schizophrenic clients that were matched equally into two groups: a study group (n = 29) (treated by Instrumental Enrichment) and a control group (treated with traditional occupational therapy methods).<br><br>SETTING: The subjects were treated in a day rehabilitation centre in the community.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: The programme lasted one year, the same schedule was provided for both groups. Subjects were randomly assigned and assessed before and after intervention with the same battery and at a follow-up six months later, work and residence status were evaluated.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Instruments included: (1) memory and thought processes, measured by a battery of structured tests from the Learning Potential Assessment Device (LPAD), Raven Progressive Matrices and General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB); (2) functional outcomes, instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), measured by a questionnaire; work and residence status; (3) self-concept measured with Fitts questionnaire.<br><br>RESULTS: Results showed significant differences between the groups on almost all the cognitive tests (MANOVA revealed significant differences between the two groups for both memory and thought process (F(2.52) = 13.75, p < 0.001; and F(1.46) = 7.28, p < 0.001, respectively) as well as in work (chi2 = 14.30, p < 0.001), and residence (chi2 = 3.86, p < 0.05) status. There were no significant differences in IADL questionnaire or the self-concept scale.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The successful outcome points to the importance of including long-term cognitive intervention in rehabilitation of schizophrenic clients. This work suggests that the classic view of schizophrenia as a progressive irreversible decline that cannot be altered may be wrong.}, }
@article {pmid11518111, year = {2001}, author = {Ichikawa, Y and Nakata, T and Ohhata, J and Wakabayashi, T and Sasao, H and Tsuchihashi, K and Shimamoto, K and Chiba, S and Matsumoto, H}, title = {Crow-Fukase syndrome with ischemic cardiomyopathy.}, journal = {Internal medicine (Tokyo, Japan)}, volume = {40}, number = {8}, pages = {726-730}, doi = {10.2169/internalmedicine.40.726}, pmid = {11518111}, issn = {0918-2918}, mesh = {Adult ; Coronary Angiography ; Dipyridamole ; Electrocardiography ; Humans ; Male ; Myocardial Ischemia/complications/diagnosis/*etiology/physiopathology ; POEMS Syndrome/complications/*diagnosis/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology ; Radionuclide Imaging ; Thallium ; Vasodilator Agents ; Ventricular Dysfunction, Left/diagnosis/*etiology/physiopathology ; }, abstract = {A 31-year-old man was admitted to our hospital for further evaluation of heart failure symptoms. Crow-Fukase syndrome was diagnosed on the basis of findings of polyneuropathy, hepatomegaly, monoclonal hypergammaglobulinemia, and hypertrichosis. Dipyridamole-stress thallium-201 perfusion imaging, contrast left ventriculography, and coronary angiography revealed a markedly dilated and dysfunctioning left ventricle, extensive reversible ischemia with fixed defect, and multiple coronary lesions. Histopathology of myocardial biopsy specimens demonstrated ischemia-induced myocardial necrosis. These findings suggested that ischemic cardiomyopathy, probably due to inflammatory reactions of coronary arteries in Crow-Fukase syndrome, was responsible for the heart failure symptoms and left ventricular dysfunction in this patient.}, }
@article {pmid11517096, year = {2001}, author = {Angelsen, NK and Vik, T and Jacobsen, G and Bakketeig, LS}, title = {Breast feeding and cognitive development at age 1 and 5 years.}, journal = {Archives of disease in childhood}, volume = {85}, number = {3}, pages = {183-188}, pmid = {11517096}, issn = {1468-2044}, support = {1-HD-1-3127/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; 1-HD-4-2803/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Breast Feeding ; Child Development/*physiology ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*physiology ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Male ; Maternal Age ; Mothers ; Prospective Studies ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; Statistics as Topic ; Time Factors ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {AIM: To examine whether duration of breast feeding has any effect on a child's cognitive or motor development in a population with favourable environmental conditions and a high prevalence of breast feeding.<br><br>METHODS: In 345 Scandinavian children, data on breast feeding were prospectively recorded during the first year of life, and neuromotor development was assessed at 1 and 5 years of age. Main outcome measures were Bayley's Scales of Infant Development at age 13 months (Mental Index, MDI; Psychomotor Index, PDI), Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scales of Intelligence (WPPSI-R), and Peabody Developmental Scales at age 5.<br><br>RESULTS: Children breast fed for less than 3 months had an increased risk, compared to children breast fed for at least 6 months, of a test score below the median value of MDI at 13 months and of WPPSI-R at 5 years. Maternal age, maternal intelligence (Raven score), maternal education, and smoking in pregnancy were significant confounders, but the increased risk of lower MDI and total IQ scores persisted after adjustment for each of these factors. We found no clear association between duration of breast feeding and motor development at 13 months or 5 years of age.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that a longer duration of breast feeding benefits cognitive development.}, }
@article {pmid11516876, year = {2001}, author = {Portelance, L and Chao, KS and Grigsby, PW and Bennet, H and Low, D}, title = {Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) reduces small bowel, rectum, and bladder doses in patients with cervical cancer receiving pelvic and para-aortic irradiation.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {51}, number = {1}, pages = {261-266}, doi = {10.1016/s0360-3016(01)01664-9}, pmid = {11516876}, issn = {0360-3016}, support = {R01 CA84409/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Intestine, Small/diagnostic imaging ; Lymphatic Metastasis/radiotherapy ; Radiation Dosage ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; Rectum/diagnostic imaging ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; Urinary Bladder/diagnostic imaging ; Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging/*radiotherapy ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: The emergent use of combined modality approach (chemotherapy and radiation therapy) for the treatment of patients with cervical cancer is associated with significant gastrointestinal and genitourinary toxicity. Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) has the potential to deliver adequate dose to the target structures while sparing the normal organs and could also allow for dose escalation to grossly enlarged metastatic lymph node in pelvic or para-aortic area without increasing gastrointestinal/genitourinary complications. We conducted a dosimetric analysis to determine if IMRT can meet these objectives in the treatment of cervical cancer.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: Computed tomography scan studies of 10 patients with cervical cancer were retrieved and used as anatomic references for planning. Upon the completion of target and critical structure delineation, the imaging and contour data were transferred to both an IMRT planning system (Corvus, Nomos) and a three-dimensional planning system (Focus, CMS) on which IMRT as well as conventional planning with two- and four-field techniques were derived. Treatment planning was done on these two systems with uniform prescription, 45 Gy in 25 fractions to the uterus, the cervix, and the pelvic and para-aortic lymph nodes. Normalization was done to all IMRT plans to obtain a full coverage of the cervix with the 95% isodose curve. Dose-volume histograms were obtained for all the plans. A Student's t test was performed to compute the statistical significance.<br><br>RESULTS: The volume of small bowel receiving the prescribed dose (45 Gy) with IMRT technique was as follows: four fields, 11.01 +/- 5.67%; seven fields, 15.05 +/- 6.76%; and nine fields, 13.56 +/- 5.30%. These were all significantly better than with two-field (35.58 +/- 13.84%) and four-field (34.24 +/- 17.82%) conventional techniques (p < 0.05). The fraction of rectal volume receiving a dose greater than the prescribed dose was as follows: four fields, 8.55 +/- 4.64%; seven fields, 6.37 +/- 5.19%; nine fields, 3.34 +/- 3.0%; in contrast to 84.01 +/- 18.37% with two-field and 46.37 +/- 24.97% with four-field conventional technique (p < 0.001). The fractional volume of bladder receiving the prescribed dose and higher was as follows: four fields, 30.29 +/- 4.64%; seven fields, 31.66 +/- 8.26%; and nine fields, 26.91 +/- 5.57%. It was significantly worse with the two-field (92.89 +/- 35.26%) and with the four-field (60.48 +/- 31.80%) techniques (p < 0.05).<br><br>CONCLUSION: In this dosimetric study, we demonstrated that with similar target coverage, normal tissue sparing is superior with IMRT in the treatment of cervical cancer.}, }
@article {pmid11515234, year = {2001}, author = {Leiva Plaza, B and Inzunza Brito, N and Pérez Torrejón, H and Castro Gloor, V and Jansana Medina, JM and Toro Díaz, T and Almagiá Flores, A and Navarro Díaz, A and Urrutia Cáceres, MS and Cervilla Oltremari, J and Ivanovic Marincovich, D}, title = {[The impact of malnutrition on brain development, intelligence and school work performance].}, journal = {Archivos latinoamericanos de nutricion}, volume = {51}, number = {1}, pages = {64-71}, pmid = {11515234}, issn = {0004-0622}, mesh = {Brain/*growth &amp; development ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Chile ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Nutrition Disorders/*complications ; Severity of Illness Index ; Socioeconomic Factors ; *Underachievement ; }, abstract = {The findings from several authors confirm that undernutrition at an early age affects brain growth and intellectual quotient. Most part of students with the lowest scholastic achievement scores present suboptimal head circumference (anthropometric indicator of past nutrition and brain development) and brain size. On the other hand, intellectual quotient measured through intelligence tests (Weschler-R, or the Raven Progressives Matrices Test) has been described positively and significantly correlated with brain size measured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); in this respect, intellectual ability has been recognized as one of the best predictors of scholastic achievement. Considering that education is the change lever for the improvement of the quality of life and that the absolute numbers of undernourished children have been increasing in the world, is of major relevance to analyse the long-term effects of undernutrition at an early age. The investigations related to the interrelationships between nutritional status, brain development, intelligence and scholastic achievement are of greatest importance, since nutritional problems affect the lowest socioeconomic stratum with negative consequences manifested in school-age, in higher levels of school dropout, learning problems and a low percentage of students enrolling into higher education. This limits the development of people by which a clear economic benefit to increase adult productivity for government policies might be successful preventing childhood malnutrition.}, }
@article {pmid11515233, year = {2001}, author = {Márquez Acosta, M and Sutil de Naranjo, R and Rivas de Yépez, CE and Rincón Silva, M and Torres, M and Yépez, RD and Portillo, Z}, title = {[Influence of breakfast on cognitive functions of children from an urban area in Valencia, Venezuela].}, journal = {Archivos latinoamericanos de nutricion}, volume = {51}, number = {1}, pages = {57-63}, pmid = {11515233}, issn = {0004-0622}, mesh = {Anthropometry ; Attention/physiology ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; *Eating ; Fatigue ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Nutritional Status ; Urban Population ; Venezuela ; }, abstract = {It's well known that physical growth and intellectual activity is influenced by nutritional status. With the purpose of evaluate the fasting effects on the cognitive functions, anthropometric state and cognitive functions (logic and school work performance), under fasting and post-breakfast condition were assessed in a group of 68 school children age 9 and 10 years, who studied in a private school (1998-1999). Logic reasoning was measured with Raven test and attention, precision, velocity and fatigue with the Lepez test. The main of the children (80%) were well-nourished and 20% had showed overweight. At breakfast condition all subjects were over 50 percentil for Raven test. Consumption of breakfast influence on logic reasoning (p < 0.001) and school work performance (p < 0.01). It is concluded that in these well nourished children, breakfast consumption improved cognitive performance.}, }
@article {pmid11509196, year = {2001}, author = {Degroot, A and Kashluba, S and Treit, D}, title = {Septal GABAergic and hippocampal cholinergic systems modulate anxiety in the plus-maze and shock-probe tests.}, journal = {Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior}, volume = {69}, number = {3-4}, pages = {391-399}, doi = {10.1016/s0091-3057(01)00541-x}, pmid = {11509196}, issn = {0091-3057}, mesh = {Animals ; *Anxiety ; Cholinesterase Inhibitors/pharmacology ; Exploratory Behavior/drug effects/physiology ; GABA Agonists/pharmacology ; Hippocampus/drug effects/*physiology ; Male ; Muscimol/pharmacology ; Physostigmine/pharmacology ; Rats ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; Receptors, Cholinergic/*physiology ; Receptors, GABA/*physiology ; Septum of Brain/drug effects/*physiology ; }, abstract = {According to Gray [The neuropsychology of anxiety: an inquiry into the function of the septo-hippocampal system. Oxford: Oxford Univ. Press, 1982; Neural systems, emotion and personality. In: Madden VJ, editor. Neurobiology of learning, emotion, and affect. New York: Raven Press, 1991. p. 273-306.] the septum and hippocampus act in concert to control anxiety. In the present study we examined the roles of these structures in two animal models of anxiety: the elevated plus-maze and the shock-probe burying tests. We found that microinfusions (20 ng/0.4 microl) of the GABA(A) agonist muscimol into either the lateral or the medial septum increased rats' open-arm exploration in the plus-maze test, and decreased their burying behavior in the shock-probe test. We also found that infusions of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor physostigmine (10 microg/microl) into the dorsal hippocampus, like intraseptal muscimol (20 ng/0.4 microl), increased open-arm exploration in the plus-maze test, and decreased burying behavior in the shock-probe test. Although combined infusions of intraseptal muscimol and intrahippocampal physostigmine did not increase the magnitude of anxiolysis, this may have been due to "ceiling" effects. Overall, the results confirm that septal GABAergic and hippocampal cholinergic systems are both involved in the modulation of anxiety.}, }
@article {pmid11508370, year = {2001}, author = {Gabbard, GO}, title = {Introduction to "The analyst's participation: a new look" by Jay Greenberg.}, journal = {Journal of the American Psychoanalytic Association}, volume = {49}, number = {2}, pages = {355-357}, doi = {10.1177/00030651010490020501}, pmid = {11508370}, issn = {0003-0651}, mesh = {Humans ; *Object Attachment ; *Psychoanalytic Theory ; Psychoanalytic Therapy/*methods ; }, }
@article {pmid11505612, year = {2001}, author = {Vickers, D and Butavicius, M and Lee, M and Medvedev, A}, title = {Human performance on visually presented Traveling Salesman problems.}, journal = {Psychological research}, volume = {65}, number = {1}, pages = {34-45}, doi = {10.1007/s004260000031}, pmid = {11505612}, issn = {0340-0727}, mesh = {Attention/physiology ; Cognition/physiology ; Discrimination Learning/physiology ; Humans ; *Problem Solving ; *Psychomotor Performance ; Random Allocation ; Reaction Time ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Little research has been carried out on human performance in optimization problems, such as the Traveling Salesman problem (TSP). Studies by Polivanova (1974, Voprosy Psikhologii, 4, 41-51) and by MacGregor and Ormerod (1996, Perception &amp; Psychophysics, 58, 527-539) suggest that: (1) the complexity of solutions to visually presented TSPs depends on the number of points on the convex hull; and (2) the perception of optimal structure is an innate tendency of the visual system, not subject to individual differences. Results are reported from two experiments. In the first, measures of the total length and completion speed of pathways, and a measure of path uncertainty were compared with optimal solutions produced by an elastic net algorithm and by several heuristic methods. Performance was also compared under instructions to draw the shortest or the most attractive pathway. In the second, various measures of performance were compared with scores on Raven's advanced progressive matrices (APM). The number of points on the convex hull did not determine the relative optimality of solutions, although both this factor and the total number of points influenced solution speed and path uncertainty. Subjects' solutions showed appreciable individual differences, which had a strong correlation with APM scores. The relation between perceptual organization and the process of solving visually presented TSPs is briefly discussed, as is the potential of optimization for providing a conceptual framework for the study of intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid11504228, year = {2001}, author = {Wellehan, JF and Calsamiglia, M and Ley, DH and Zens, MS and Amonsin, A and Kapur, V}, title = {Mycoplasmosis in captive crows and robins from Minnesota.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {37}, number = {3}, pages = {547-555}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-37.3.547}, pmid = {11504228}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/microbiology ; Colony Count, Microbial ; Conjunctivitis, Bacterial/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; DNA Fingerprinting/veterinary ; DNA, Ribosomal/chemistry ; Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect ; Minnesota/epidemiology ; Mycoplasma/classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Mycoplasma Infections/epidemiology/*veterinary ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Technique/methods/veterinary ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; *Songbirds ; }, abstract = {Mycoplasma sturni is a recently described organism previously associated with conjunctivitis in European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris), northern mockingbirds (Mimus polyglottos) and blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata). Herein we describe the isolation of M. sturni from an American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) presenting with conjunctivitis. A nested-PCR was designed for identification of M. sturni in clinical specimens and the sensitivity of the reaction was found to be 10 colony-changing units. The organism was found in asymptomatic American crows caged with a nestmate of the crow with conjunctivitis. Mycoplasma sturni also was found in asymptomatic American robins (Turdus migratorius) and in a European starling (Sturnus vulgaris) housed at the same facility as the crows. Heterogenity of M. sturni isolates from different host species was found by random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analyses. Heterogeneity also was found among M. sturni isolates recovered from American crows. We suggest that M. sturni can successfully infect American crows and American robins with or without the presence of clinical disease. Furthermore, we demonstrate that nested-PCR is an effective method for the detection of M. sturni and that substantial genetic heterogeneity exists among natural isolates of this bacterial pathogen.}, }
@article {pmid11504226, year = {2001}, author = {Januszewski, MC and Olsen, SC and McLean, RG and Clark, L and Rhyan, JC}, title = {Experimental infection of nontarget species of rodents and birds with Brucella abortus strain RB51 vaccine.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {37}, number = {3}, pages = {532-537}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-37.3.532}, pmid = {11504226}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Arvicolinae ; Bird Diseases/etiology/*prevention &amp; control ; Brucella Vaccine/*administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Brucella abortus/*immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; Brucellosis/etiology/prevention &amp; control/*veterinary ; Colony Count, Microbial ; Female ; Liver/microbiology/pathology ; Male ; Peromyscus ; Rodent Diseases/etiology/*prevention &amp; control ; Safety ; Sciuridae ; Songbirds ; Spleen/microbiology/pathology ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {The Brucella abortus vaccine strain RB51 (SRB51) is being considered for use in the management of bnucellosis in wild bison (Bison bison) and elk (Cervus elaphus) populations in the Greater Yellowstone Area (USA). Evaluation of the vaccines safety in non-target species was considered necessary prior to field use. Between June 1998 and December 1999, ground squirrels (Spermophilus richardsonii, n = 21), deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus, n = 14), prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster, n = 21), and ravens (Corvus corax, n = 13) were orally inoculated with SRB51 or physiologic saline. Oral and rectal swabs and blood samples were collected for bacteriologic evaluation. Rodents were necropsied at 8 to 10 wk and 12 to 21 wk post inoculation (PI), and ravens at 7 and 11 wk PI. Spleen, liver and reproductive tissues were collected for bacteriologic and histopathologic evaluation. No differences in clinical signs, appetite, weight loss or gain, or activity were observed between saline- and SRB51-inoculated animals in all four species. Oral and rectal swabs from all species were negative throughout the study. In tissues obtained from SRB51-inoculated animals, the organism was isolated from six of seven (86%) ground squirrels, one of six (17%) deer mice, none of seven voles, and one of five (20%) ravens necropsied at 8, 8, 10, and 7 wk PI, respectively. Tissues from four of seven (57%) SRB51-inoculated ground squirrels were culture positive for the organism 12 wk PI; SRB51 was not recovered from deer mice, voles. or ravens necropsied 12, 21, or 11 wk, respectively, PI. SRB51 was not recovered from saline-inoculated ground squirrels, deer mice, or voles at any time but was recovered from one saline-inoculated raven at necropsy, 7 wk PI, likely attributable to contact with SRB51-inoculated ravens in an adjacent aviary room. Spleen was time primary tissue site of colonization in ground squirrels, followed by the liver and reproductive organs. The results indicate oral exposure to SRB51 does not produce morbidity or mortality in ravens, ground squirrels, deer mice, or prairie voles.}, }
@article {pmid11500573, year = {2000}, author = {Verstappen, M and Aerts, P}, title = {Terrestrial locomotion in the black-billed magpie. I. Spatio-temporal gait characteristics.}, journal = {Motor control}, volume = {4}, number = {2}, pages = {150-164}, doi = {10.1123/mcj.4.2.150}, pmid = {11500573}, issn = {1087-1640}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Gait ; *Locomotion ; Running ; Walking ; }, abstract = {Spatio-temporal gait characteristics are determined for walking, running, and out of phase hopping magpies, at velocities ranging from 0.4 to 4 m/s. Below 1 m/s, magpies walk. At higher velocities they either run or hop, the latter being preferred. Stride length and frequency during walking and running relate to speed in an identical way. It is suggested that the control of walking and running, despite the abrupt drop in duty factor and step length at the transition from walking to either running or hopping, is represented by one single intrinsic pattern. Swing phase duration is independent of speed and similar of the three gaits, pointing to a passive, mechanical control. Stride frequencies during hopping barely change with velocity, while its stride length relates to velocity in a way highly comparable to that of walking and running. Hopping step length and duty factor are indifferent from those of running. These facts, combined with the similar spatio-temporal behavior of both legs in hopping suggest fairly comparable intra-limb coordination for running and hopping, and a simple phase-shift in inter-limb coordination to transform a run into a hop.}, }
@article {pmid11497500, year = {2001}, author = {Zimbler, MS and Holds, JB and Kokoska, MS and Glaser, DA and Prendiville, S and Hollenbeak, CS and Thomas, JR}, title = {Effect of botulinum toxin pretreatment on laser resurfacing results: a prospective, randomized, blinded trial.}, journal = {Archives of facial plastic surgery}, volume = {3}, number = {3}, pages = {165-169}, doi = {10.1001/archfaci.3.3.165}, pmid = {11497500}, issn = {1521-2491}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Facial Muscles/*drug effects ; Female ; Humans ; Injections ; *Laser Therapy ; Middle Aged ; Neuromuscular Agents/administration &amp; dosage ; Postoperative Period ; Prospective Studies ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; Single-Blind Method ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Facial laser resurfacing and chemodenervation with botulinum toxin type A are used independently as means of nonsurgical facial rejuvenation. Recent reports in the literature have described combining these 2 therapies, claiming improved and longer-lasting laser resurfacing results. To date, no scientific investigation has been undertaken to prove or disprove this theory.<br><br>DESIGN: Institutional review board-approved, prospective, randomized, blinded study at university-affiliated outpatient cosmetic surgery offices.<br><br>INTERVENTION: Patients had one side of their face injected, at specific anatomic subsites (crow's feet, horizontal forehead furrows, and glabellar frown lines), with botulinum toxin 1 week before laser resurfacing. After receiving an injection, patients underwent cutaneous laser exfoliation on both sides of the face with either a carbon dioxide or an erbium dual-mode laser.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Patients' injected (experimental) and noninjected (control) sides were compared after laser resurfacing. Follow-up was documented at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after laser resurfacing. Subjective evaluation, based on a visual analog scale, was performed in person by a blinded observer. Furthermore, a blinded panel of 3 expert judges (1 facial plastic surgeon, 1 oculoplastic surgeon, and 1 cosmetic dermatologist) graded 35-mm photographs taken during postoperative follow-up visits.<br><br>RESULTS: Ten female patients were enrolled in the study. A 2-tailed t test showed that all sites that were pretreated with botulinum toxin showed statistically significant improvement (P< or =.05) over the nontreated side, with the crow's feet region showing the greatest improvement. Comparing results between the carbon dioxide and erbium lasers did not result in any statistically significant differences.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Hyperdynamic facial lines, pretreated with botulinum toxin before laser resurfacing, heal in a smoother rhytid-diminished fashion. These results were clinically most significant in the crow's feet region. We recommend pretreatment of movement-associated rhytides with botulinum toxin before laser resurfacing. For optimum results, we further recommend continued maintenance therapy with botulinum toxin postoperatively.}, }
@article {pmid11493292, year = {2001}, author = {Flynn, TC and Carruthers, JA and Carruthers, JA}, title = {Botulinum-A toxin treatment of the lower eyelid improves infraorbital rhytides and widens the eye.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {27}, number = {8}, pages = {703-708}, doi = {10.1046/j.1524-4725.2001.01038.x}, pmid = {11493292}, issn = {1076-0512}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; *Cosmetic Techniques ; *Eyelids ; Female ; Humans ; Injections ; Middle Aged ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {Botulinum-A exotoxin (BTX-A) can be used cosmetically to improve rhytides, particularly of the upper one-third of the face. In this study, fifteen women had BTX-A (BOTOX, Allergan, Inc.) injected into the orbicularis oculi muscle. One lower eyelid received two units just subdermally in the midpupillary line three millimeters below the ciliary margin. The opposite periocular area received two units BTX-A in the lower eyelid with 12 units BTX-A injected into the lateral orbital ("crow's foot") area. Three injections of four units each were placed 1.5 cm from the lateral canthus, each 1 cm apart. Patients and physicians independently evaluated the degree of improvement (grade 0 = no improvement, grade 1 = mild improvement, grade 2 = moderate improvement, and grade 3 = dramatic improvement). An independent photographic analysis was performed. Patients reported a grade of 0.73 when two units were injected alone into the lower lid, and a grade of 1.9 when the lower eyelid and the lateral orbital areas were injected. Physician assessment was grade 0.7 with injection of the eyelid alone and grade 1.8 with injection of the lower eyelid and lateral orbital area. Single investigator photographic analysis demonstrated that 40% of the subjects who had injection of the lower eyelid alone had an increased palpebral aperture (IPA), while 86% of the subjects who had injection of the lower eyelid and lateral orbital area had an IPA. Subjects receiving two units alone had an average 0.5 mm IPA and a mean 1.3 mm IPA at full smile. Concomitant treatment of the lateral orbital area produced a mean 1.8 mm IPA at rest and a mean 2.9 mm IPA at full smile. The results were more notable in the Asian eye. Two units of BTX-A injected into the lower eyelid orbicularis oculi muscle improves infraorbital wrinkles, particularly when used in combination with BTX-A treatment of the lateral orbital area.}, }
@article {pmid11481854, year = {2001}, author = {Shinde, A and Matsumae, H and Maruyama, A and Oida, J and Kawamoto, Y and Kouhara, N and Oka, N and Shirase, T and Kitaichi, M and Akiguchi, I and Shibasaki, H}, title = {[A patient with Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with pulmonary plasmacytoma].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {41}, number = {2-3}, pages = {121-125}, pmid = {11481854}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating/administration &amp; dosage ; Drug Therapy, Combination ; Female ; Humans ; Lung Neoplasms/*complications/drug therapy ; Melphalan/administration &amp; dosage ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/drug therapy/*etiology ; Plasmacytoma/*complications/drug therapy ; Prednisolone/administration &amp; dosage ; }, abstract = {We here reported a 54-year-old female patient with Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with pulmonary plasmacytoma. She was found to have scattered tumor in 1990. Although the tumor had slowly grown for the last 10 years, she showed no clinical symptoms. Numbness and weakness of lower extremities began in June 1999, and she was referred to Kyoto University Hospital on Oct. 21 1999 for evaluation of progressive symptoms. She had skin pigmentation, edema of the lower extremities, lymphadenopathy, muscle weakness and sensory disturbance in a glove-and-stocking distribution. Serological examination showed monoclonal IgG-lambda gammopathy. Serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was markedly elevated. Microscopic studies on biopsied sural nerve demonstrated mild decrease of myelinated fibers. Immunohistochemically, the pulmonary tumor was defined as an IgG (lambda type) plasmacytoma. After treatment with melphalan-prednisolone therapy, the neurological symptoms improved along with decrease of serum VEGF levels as well as the size of pulmonary plasmacytoma. This is the first report of a patient with Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with pulmonary plasmacytoma. This case suggests that growth of pulmonary plasmacytoma might have played an important role in the overproduction of VEGF and thus development of Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid11472446, year = {2001}, author = {Ross, LA and Frier, BM and Kelnar, CJ and Deary, IJ}, title = {Child and parental mental ability and glycaemic control in children with Type 1 diabetes.}, journal = {Diabetic medicine : a journal of the British Diabetic Association}, volume = {18}, number = {5}, pages = {364-369}, doi = {10.1046/j.1464-5491.2001.00468.x}, pmid = {11472446}, issn = {0742-3071}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Biomarkers/blood ; Blood Glucose/*metabolism ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/*blood/*psychology ; Female ; Glycated Hemoglobin/*analysis ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Occupations ; Parents/*psychology ; Reading ; Regression Analysis ; Scotland ; Social Class ; }, abstract = {AIMS: Many psycho-social factors can affect the glycaemic control of children with Type 1 diabetes, but the influence of the intelligence of the child and their parents has not been reported.<br><br>METHODS: Seventy-eight children and adolescents with Type 1 diabetes and their mothers performed standardized tests to assess psychometric intelligence. The children were aged (median (range)) 12.0 (5-17) years with duration of diabetes 5.0 (1.0-13.0) years and required an insulin dose of (mean +/- SD) 1.0 +/- 0.3 U/kg per day. The children completed the Wide Range Achievement Test 3 reading test (WRAT3) and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM). A mean annual HbA1c was calculated for each subject (8.6 +/- 1.4%). The mothers performed the National Adult Reading Test (NART) and provided details of the occupation of the main wage-earner in the family from which social class (SC) was derived.<br><br>RESULTS: The HbA1c of the child correlated with their age (r = 0.26, P = 0.02), SC (Kendall's rank correlation, tau = 0.17, P = 0.03) and with the NART error score of their mother (r = 0.28, P = 0.01), but no correlation was observed with the child's WRAT3 or RSPM score. Stepwise regression revealed that age and NART error score were the strongest independent determinants of glycaemic control (total adjusted r2 = 0.117).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Parental intelligence appears to have a significant influence on the glycaemic control of a child with Type 1 diabetes, accounting for 7.6% of the reliable variance in HbA1c.}, }
@article {pmid11444515, year = {2001}, author = {Ayyangar, KM and Nizin, PS and Saw, CB and Gearheart, D and Shen, B and Enke, CA}, title = {Independent dose calculations for the corvus MLC IMRT.}, journal = {Medical dosimetry : official journal of the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists}, volume = {26}, number = {2}, pages = {135-141}, doi = {10.1016/s0958-3947(01)00067-x}, pmid = {11444515}, issn = {0958-3947}, mesh = {*Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; }, abstract = {Two independent dose calculation methods have been explored to validate MLC-based IMRT plans from the NOMOS CORVUS system. After the plan is generated on the CORVUS planning system, the beam parameters are imported into an independent workstation. The beam parameters consist of intensity maps at each gantry angle. In addition, CT scans of the patient are imported into the independent workstation to obtain the external contour of the patient. The coordinate system is defined relative to the alignment point chosen in the CORVUS plan. The 2 independent calculation methods are based on a pencil beam kernel convolution and a Clarkson-type differential scatter summation, respectively. The pencil beam data for a 1 x 1-cm beam, as formed by the multileaf collimator, were measured for the 6-MV photon beam from a Siemens PRIMUS linear accelerator using film dosimetry. In the pencil beam method, the dose at a point is calculated using the depth and off-axis distance from a given pencil beam, corrected for beam intensity. The scatter summation method used the conversion of measured depth dose data into scatter maximum ratios. In this method, the differential scatter from each pencil beam is corrected for the beam intensity. Isodose distributions were generated using the independent dose calculations and compared to the CORVUS plans. Although isodose distributions from both methods show good agreement with the CORVUS plan, our implementation of the differential scatter summation approach seems more favorable. The 2 independent dose calculation algorithms are described in this paper.}, }
@article {pmid11444514, year = {2001}, author = {Saw, CB and Ayyangar, KM and Zhen, W and Thompson, RB and Enke, CA}, title = {Commissioning and quality assurance for MLC-based IMRT.}, journal = {Medical dosimetry : official journal of the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists}, volume = {26}, number = {2}, pages = {125-133}, doi = {10.1016/s0958-3947(01)00066-8}, pmid = {11444514}, issn = {0958-3947}, mesh = {Equipment Design ; Particle Accelerators ; Quality Control ; Radiotherapy, Computer-Assisted/*instrumentation/*methods/standards ; Software ; }, abstract = {The commissioning and quality assurance (QA) associated with the implementation of linear accelerator multileaf collimator (MLC)-based intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) at the University of Nebraska Medical Center are described. Our MLC-based IMRT is implemented using the PRIMUS linear accelerator interface through the IMPAC record and verification system to the CORVUS treatment planning system. The "step-and-shoot" technique is used for this MLC-based IMRT. Commissioning process requires the verification of predefined parameters available on the CORVUS and the collection of some machine data. The machine data required are output factor in air and output factor in phantom, and percent depth dose for a number of field sizes. In addition, inplane and crossplane dose profiles of 4 x 4 cm and 20 x 20 cm field sizes and diagonal dose profiles of a large field size have to be measured. Validation of connectivity and dose model includes the use of uniform intensity bar strips, triangular-shaped nonuniform intensity bar strip, and N-shaped target. QA procedure follows the recommendation of the AAPM Task Group No. 40 report. In addition, the leaf position accuracy and reproducibility of the MLC should be checked at regular intervals. The dose validation is implemented through the hybrid plan where the patient beam parameters are applied to a flat phantom. Independent dose calculation method is used to confirm the dose delivery plan and data input to the CORVUS.}, }
@article {pmid11443027, year = {2001}, author = {Leeds, L and Meara, RJ and Woods, R and Hobson, JP}, title = {A comparison of the new executive functioning domains of the CAMCOG-R with existing tests of executive function in elderly stroke survivors.}, journal = {Age and ageing}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {251-254}, doi = {10.1093/ageing/30.3.251}, pmid = {11443027}, issn = {0002-0729}, mesh = {Aged ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests/*standards ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Stroke/*psychology ; Survivors ; }, abstract = {AIM: to compare the two new executive function tests of the revised Cambridge Cognitive Examination (CAMCOG-R), a bedside measure of cognitive function, with existing neuropsychological assessments of executive function in elderly stroke survivors.<br><br>METHODS: we assessed 83 stroke survivors at 1 and 3 months post-stroke with the new CAMCOG-R, the Weigl colour form sorting test and Raven's coloured progressive matrices. We assessed functional recovery with the Barthel index and depression with the self-report 15-item geriatric depression scale. We used descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficients, paired t-tests and principal axis factor analyses to interpret the data.<br><br>RESULTS: the new CAMCOG-R executive functioning tests showed moderate correlation with the Weigl and Raven tests (P<0.01). Improved functional outcome as measured by the Barthel index was significantly associated with higher executive function test scores (P<0.05). Depression was significantly associated with poorer performance on all tasks of executive function (P<0.05). A factor analysis of the scores on all of the neuropsychological tests revealed a single strong factor that accounted for 66% of the variance. The CAMCOG-R and the executive functioning subscales used in this population established sensitivity to change over time.<br><br>CONCLUSION: although the new executive tests of the CAMCOG-R compared reasonably well with the Weigl and Raven neuropsychological tests, the extra time taken to administer the CAMCOG-R may not be justified. The new CAMCOG-R executive function tests were vulnerable to the effects of depression. Finally, the executive function tests might have provided more of a global measure of cognitive function, raising doubts about their construct validity in our patient population.}, }
@article {pmid11434361, year = {2001}, author = {Lambotte, O and Dürrbach, A and Ammor, M and Paradis, V and Djeffal, R and Machover, D and Charpentier, B}, title = {Association of a POEMS syndrome and light chain deposit disease: first case report.}, journal = {Clinical nephrology}, volume = {55}, number = {6}, pages = {482-486}, pmid = {11434361}, issn = {0301-0430}, mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; Hypergammaglobulinemia/*complications/epidemiology ; Immunoglobulin kappa-Chains/*analysis ; Kidney/pathology ; Male ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Monoclonal immunoglobulin (Ig) deposition diseases are characterized by deposition in tissues of excessive amounts of the Ig, compromising organ functions. Light chain deposition disease (LCDD) and AL amyloidosis are the commonest [Buxbaum 1992]. LCDD is usually characterized by rapidly progressive renal failure with glomerular and tubular deposits of Ig fragments mostly composed by kappa light chain. Monoclonal Ig production can also be observed associated with various symptoms, that, taken together, have been described as the Crow-Fukase syndrome or POEMS syndrome. It associates polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal Ig, and skin changes. In POEMS syndrome, renal abnormalities are rare and are reported as a moderate renal insufficiency with mild proteinuria or acute functional renal insufficiency leading in some cases to end-stage renal failure [Fukatsu et al. 1991]. Although a monoclonal Ig is produced, no Ig deposit disease had been described in POEMS syndrome except a case of AL amyloidosis [Toyokuni et al. 1992]. Here, to our knowledge, we report the first case of an LCDD associated with a POEMS syndrome. Although an autologous bone marrow graft was realized, the monoclonal component reappeared and was responsible for end-stage renal disease, cachexia and death.}, }
@article {pmid11428945, year = {2000}, author = {Black, D and Del Pozo, A and Lagarde, JM and Gall, Y}, title = {Seasonal variability in the biophysical properties of stratum corneum from different anatomical sites.}, journal = {Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI)}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {70-76}, doi = {10.1034/j.1600-0846.2000.006002070.x}, pmid = {11428945}, issn = {1600-0846}, abstract = {BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: A 10-month-long study on a panel of 24 young female subjects was carried out to determine whether various biophysical aspects of the stratum corneum (SC) varied with season. METHODS: Three different anatomical sites (calf, inner forearm and crow's foot wrinkle area of the face) were assessed in February, April, July and December of the same year. The assessments made were skin surface hydration using an electrical capacitance technique, transepidermal water loss by evaporimetry, number of corneocytes released using a turbine stimulation method, and skin surface topography using optical profilometry. RESULTS: The results showed significant anatomical differences: with the crow's foot site > forearm > calf, for skin surface hydration and corneocyte numbers; and the crow's foot site > forearm and calf, with no difference between the latter two sites, for TEWL measurements. With these techniques, seasonal differences were observed mainly in the calf, to a lesser extent in the forearm, but not in the crow's foot area. These mainly involved increases in these three parameters in July, as opposed to the other time-points. Parameters of skin surface topography however, showed no consistent seasonal pattern, but markedly higher values were observed for the forearm in comparison to the calf and crow's foot sites, which were similar. From meteorological data obtained, the average daily maximum temperature and hours of sunshine increased to peak values in July, as did the absolute humidity derived from relative humidity data. CONCLUSION: We conclude that the results are most likely to represent changes in the SC due to climatic factors, with the calf and forearm sites being most affected in comparison to the face (crow's foot wrinkle area), which seems unaffected. The reasons for this latter site remaining unchanged may be due to its greater UV exposure, sebum content, and that the use of facial cosmetics was allowed.}, }
@article {pmid11426623, year = {2000}, author = {Sharabi, Y and Raanani, P and Shenkar, A and Thaler, M and Grossman, E}, title = {Plasma cell dyscrasia with polyneuropathy--POEMS syndrome presenting with vasculitic skin lesions and responding to combination chemotherapy.}, journal = {Leukemia &amp; lymphoma}, volume = {40}, number = {1-2}, pages = {209-213}, doi = {10.3109/10428190009054899}, pmid = {11426623}, issn = {1042-8194}, mesh = {Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/administration &amp; dosage ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*diagnosis/drug therapy/pathology ; Paraproteinemias/drug therapy/etiology/pathology ; Polyneuropathies/drug therapy/etiology/pathology ; Skin Diseases, Vascular/*diagnosis/pathology ; Vasculitis/etiology/pathology ; }, abstract = {We report a 61-year-old male patient who presented with severe sensorimotor neuropathy, leg edema and skin lesions with M-paraprotein and 50% plasma cells in the bone marrow. The POEMS (Crow-Fukase) syndrome was diagnosed and the skin lesions were compatible with vasculitis according to the histopathology. The patient was treated with aggressive combined chemotherapy, which induced improvement in both the clinical and laboratory parameters of his disease. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report of a vasculitic process underlying the skin changes in the POEMS syndrome. Our findings may shed light on the unknown pathogenesis of this syndrome and the successful results of treatment support the adoption of an aggressive therapeutic approach in symptomatic patients.}, }
@article {pmid11424479, year = {2001}, author = {Sato, H and Kawamata, T and Kanaya, N and Namiki, A}, title = {[Anesthetic management of a patient with Crow-Fukase syndrome complicated with severe heart failure].}, journal = {Masui. The Japanese journal of anesthesiology}, volume = {50}, number = {5}, pages = {552-554}, pmid = {11424479}, issn = {0021-4892}, mesh = {Adult ; Anesthesia/*methods ; Anesthesia, Epidural ; Heart Failure/*complications ; Humans ; Male ; Orthopedic Procedures ; POEMS Syndrome/complications/*surgery ; }, abstract = {A 31-year-old man with Crow-Fukase syndrome was scheduled for orthopedic surgery of the right lower limb. Preoperative examination revealed severe heart failure due to cardiomyopathy. Anesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane and nitrous oxide in oxygen, and supplemental fentanyl combined with continuous epidural block. During surgery, we evaluated cardiac function using transesophageal echocardiography. To maintain his cardiac function, intravenous dopamine and dobtamine were administered continuously, and the surgery was performed successfully. We must take care of cardiac function during anesthetic management of a patient with this syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid11420526, year = {2001}, author = {Matarasso, SL and Matarasso, A}, title = {Treatment guidelines for botulinum toxin type A for the periocular region and a report on partial upper lip ptosis following injections to the lateral canthal rhytids.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {108}, number = {1}, pages = {208-14; discussion 215-7}, doi = {10.1097/00006534-200107000-00033}, pmid = {11420526}, issn = {0032-1052}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; Cosmetic Techniques/*adverse effects ; Facial Muscles/*drug effects ; Humans ; Injections ; *Lip ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Muscle Weakness/*chemically induced ; Neuromuscular Agents/administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; Orbit ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {Inactivation of the orbicularis oculi muscle by chemodenervation with botulinum toxin type A (Botox, Allergan, Inc., Irvine, Calif.) as a sole procedure or in conjunction with blepharoplasty has proved to be a reliable method to improve the appearance of the periocular area. Botox has the unique and ideal characteristic in that, with repeated use, there is potential for a prolonged clinical effect with smaller dosages. In addition, if a complication does arise--while not aesthetically acceptable and potentially untoward--it is time-limited, and the anatomical area will eventually return to its pretreatment baseline status. In this study, in three cases [in more than 1000 crow's feet treatment sessions (2000 sides)] over the course of 1 year, partial lip ptosis resulting from weakening of the zygomaticus major muscle after the injection of Botox into the periocular region are reported. This article reviews suggested treatment guidelines and anatomic considerations for the periocular region to maintain injection standardization and improve the safety profile of Botox as the aesthetic indications for its use expand and the number of individuals who inject it increases.}, }
@article {pmid11417509, year = {2001}, author = {Nizin, PS and Kania, A and Ayyangar, K}, title = {Basic concepts of CORVUS dose model.}, journal = {Medical dosimetry : official journal of the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {65-69}, doi = {10.1016/s0958-3947(01)00056-5}, pmid = {11417509}, issn = {0958-3947}, mesh = {Humans ; Monte Carlo Method ; Radiometry ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; }, abstract = {Basic concepts of the dose model utilized in the CORVUS treatment planning system are reviewed. Following the Peacock delivery tool (MIMiC) by NOMOS Corporation, CORVUS "delivers" radiation to a patient by means of narrow x-ray beams (pencil beams), which are subject to lateral electronic disequilibrium. Dose data for such beams are difficult to obtain experimentally. Therefore, the CORVUS dose model uses analytically calculated (rather than experimentally measured) narrow-beam dose data. The model is based on the idea that physical parameters necessary to calculate absorbed dose in narrow x-ray beams can be derived from measured broad-beam dose data. Calculation of central-axis and off-axis absorbed dose in narrow beams as well as a method of generating beam profiles are described.}, }
@article {pmid11417508, year = {2001}, author = {Saw, CB and Ayyangar, KM and Thompson, RB and Zhen, W and Enke, CA}, title = {Commissioning of Peacock System for intensity-modulated radiation therapy.}, journal = {Medical dosimetry : official journal of the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {55-64}, doi = {10.1016/s0958-3947(00)00056-x}, pmid = {11417508}, issn = {0958-3947}, mesh = {Humans ; Particle Accelerators ; Radiometry/instrumentation ; Radiotherapy/*instrumentation/*methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; }, abstract = {The Peacock System was introduced to perform tomographic intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). Commissioning of the Peacock System included the alignment of the multileaf intensity-modulating collimator (MIMiC) to the beam axis, the alignment of the RTA device for immobilization, and checking the integrity of the CRANE for indexing the treatment couch. In addition, the secondary jaw settings, couch step size, and transmission through the leaves were determined. The dosimetric data required for the CORVUS planning system were divided into linear accelerator-specific and MIMiC-specific. The linear accelerator-specific dosimetric data were relative output in air, relative output in phantom, percent depth dose for a range of field sizes, and diagonal dose profiles for a large field size. The MIMiC-specific dosimetric data were the in-plane and cross-plane dose profiles of a small and a large field size to derive the penumbra fit. For each treatment unit, the Beam Utility software requires the data be entered into the CORVUS planning system in modular forms. These modules were treatment unit information, angle definition, configuration, gantry and couch angles range, dosimetry, results, and verification plans. After the appropriate machine data were entered, CORVUS created a dose model. The dose model was used to create known simple dose distribution for evaluation using the verification tools of the CORVUS. The planned doses for phantoms were confirmed using an ion chamber for point dose measurement and film for relative dose measurement. The planning system calibration factor was initially set at 1.0 and will be changed after data on clinical cases are acquired. The treatment unit was released for clinical use after the approval icon was checked in the verification plans module.}, }
@article {pmid11417507, year = {2001}, author = {Singh, RR and Ayyangar, KM and Shen, B and Gearheart, D and Saw, CB}, title = {Comparative study between IMRT with NOMOS BEAK and linac-based radiosurgery in the treatment of intracranial lesions.}, journal = {Medical dosimetry : official journal of the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {47-53}, doi = {10.1016/s0958-3947(00)00065-0}, pmid = {11417507}, issn = {0958-3947}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Brain Neoplasms/*radiotherapy/*surgery ; Humans ; Particle Accelerators ; *Radiosurgery ; Radiotherapy/*instrumentation/methods ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; }, abstract = {A comparative study was undertaken to examine intracranial irradiation using intensity-modulation radiation therapy (IMRT) and linear accelerator-based radiosurgery. The IMRT was examined using the Peacock system with a BEAK attachment. A clinical case involving a metastatic brain lesion, treated with 3 radiosurgery isocenters, was planned for IMRT. The radiosurgery was planned using the Leibinger planning system. The IMRT was planned using the CORVUS planning system. The CORVUS planning system uses an inverse planning algorithm, a recent development in radiotherapy. Isodose distributions and dose volume histograms were generated and compared. Analysis of the dosimetry shows that the dose conformity and homogeneity within the target using the RTOG guidelines are superior for IMRT. The advantages of IMRT using inverse planning system include the ease of planning and execution of treatment, especially for cases that involve concave targets that require multiple isocenters using radiosurgery.}, }
@article {pmid11417504, year = {2001}, author = {Ayyangar, KM and Saw, CB and Shen, B and Enke, CA and Nizin, PS}, title = {Independent dose calculations for the PEACOCK System.}, journal = {Medical dosimetry : official journal of the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {29-35}, doi = {10.1016/s0958-3947(00)00057-1}, pmid = {11417504}, issn = {0958-3947}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Film Dosimetry ; Humans ; Particle Accelerators ; Radiotherapy/*instrumentation/methods ; *Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy, High-Energy ; }, abstract = {An independent dose calculation method has been developed to validate intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) plans from the NOMOS PEACOCK System. After the plan is generated on the CORVUS planning system, the beam parameters are imported into an independent workstation. The beam parameters consist of intensity maps at each gantry angle and each arc position. In addition, CT scans of the patient are imported into the independent workstation to obtain the external contour of the patient. The coordinate system is defined relative to the alignment point chosen in the CORVUS plan. The independent calculation uses the pencil beam data viz tissue maximum ratio (TMR) and beam profiles for a single 1 x 0.8-cm beamlet formed by the NOMOS multileaf intensity-modulating collimator (MIMiC) leaf. The pencil beam data were measured for the 6-MV photon beam from Siemens PRIMUS linear accelerator using film dosimetry. The dose at a point is calculated using the depth and off-axis distance from a given pencil beam, corrected for its beam intensity. Isodose distributions are generated using the independent dose calculations and compared to the CORVUS plans. Isodose distributions show good agreement with the CORVUS plans for a number of clinical cases. The independent dose calculation algorithm is described in this paper.}, }
@article {pmid11415005, year = {2001}, author = {Ruban, VP and Podolsky, DI and Rasmussen, JJ}, title = {Finite time singularities in a class of hydrodynamic models.}, journal = {Physical review. E, Statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics}, volume = {63}, number = {5 Pt 2}, pages = {056306}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.63.056306}, pmid = {11415005}, issn = {1539-3755}, abstract = {Models of inviscid incompressible fluid are considered, with the kinetic energy (i.e., the Lagrangian functional) taking the form L approximately integral k(alpha)/vk/2dk in 3D Fourier representation, where alpha is a constant, 0<alpha<1. Unlike the case alpha=0 (the usual Eulerian hydrodynamics), a finite value of alpha results in a finite energy for a singular, frozen-in vortex filament. This property allows us to study the dynamics of such filaments without the necessity of a regularization procedure for short length scales. The linear analysis of small symmetrical deviations from a stationary solution is performed for a pair of antiparallel vortex filaments and an analog of the Crow instability is found at small wave numbers. A local approximate Hamiltonian is obtained for the nonlinear long-scale dynamics of this system. Self-similar solutions of the corresponding equations are found analytically. They describe the formation of a finite time singularity, with all length scales decreasing like (t*-t)(1/(2-alpha)), where t* is the singularity time.}, }
@article {pmid11414115, year = {2001}, author = {Bohnert, M and Schmidt, U and Perdekamp, MG and Pollak, S}, title = {[Extent of burn lesions--an analysis of 68 burned cadavers].}, journal = {Archiv fur Kriminologie}, volume = {207}, number = {3-4}, pages = {104-113}, pmid = {11414115}, issn = {0003-9225}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Autopsy/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Burns/classification/*pathology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Germany ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Retrospective Studies ; }, abstract = {The burned bodies (n = 68) autopsied at the Freiburg Institute of Forensic Medicine in the years 1996-2001 (until the end of February) were examined with regard to the extent of consumption by the fire using the classifications suggested by Eckert et al., Maxeiner, Glassman and Crow, and Gerling et al. Further classification parameters were exposure of the body cavities and amputation of extremities as a result of the fire. Most cases were accidental deaths (approximately 75%). The fires occurred mainly in buildings (57%) or vehicles (34%); in 6 cases the burning took place in the open air. In most cases the degree of consumption by the fire was slight to moderate. Only 15% of the burned bodies showed extensive destruction with severe loss of soft tissue and shrinking or amputation of the extremities. In one case the soft tissue was completely destroyed with fragmentation of the calcined skeletal remains. In bodies recovered from house fired the extent of consumption by the fire was usually less pronounced than in bodies retrieved from burned-out vehicles.}, }
@article {pmid11413793, year = {2001}, author = {Sanders, CV}, title = {Memorial. Jay P. Sanford 1928-1996.}, journal = {Transactions of the American Clinical and Climatological Association}, volume = {112}, number = {}, pages = {xliv-xlvi}, pmid = {11413793}, issn = {0065-7778}, mesh = {Anti-Bacterial Agents/history/therapeutic use ; Clinical Medicine/history ; Communicable Diseases/drug therapy/*history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid11403342, year = {2001}, author = {Bostantjopoulou, S and Kiosseoglou, G and Katsarou, Z and Alevriadou, A}, title = {Concurrent validity of the Test of Nonverbal Intelligence in Parkinson's disease patients.}, journal = {The Journal of psychology}, volume = {135}, number = {2}, pages = {205-212}, doi = {10.1080/00223980109603691}, pmid = {11403342}, issn = {0022-3980}, mesh = {Aged ; Case-Control Studies ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests/*standards ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/standards ; Nonverbal Communication/*psychology ; Parkinson Disease/*psychology ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Regression Analysis ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {The Test of Nonverbal Intelligence (TONI-2; L. Brown, R. J. Sherbenou, &amp; S. Johnsen, 1990) and Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM; J. C. Raven, 1965) are defined as language-free measures of cognitive ability. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relation between the RCPM and the TONI-2 for samples of patients with Parkinson's disease (n = 75) and controls (n = 47). A regression equation was computed to evaluate the relation of the RCPM scores to the TONI-2 quotient. Regression equation results indicate that there is a significant overlapping linear variance between the two measures in both patients and controls.}, }
@article {pmid11381751, year = {2001}, author = {Lance, BK and Irons, DB and Kendall, SJ and McDonald, LL}, title = {An evaluation of marine bird population trends following the Exxon Valdez oil spill, Prince William Sound, Alaska.}, journal = {Marine pollution bulletin}, volume = {42}, number = {4}, pages = {298-309}, doi = {10.1016/s0025-326x(00)00155-7}, pmid = {11381751}, issn = {0025-326X}, mesh = {Alaska ; Animals ; *Birds ; Ecosystem ; Environmental Monitoring ; Petroleum/*adverse effects ; Population Dynamics ; Water Pollutants/*adverse effects ; }, abstract = {We examined post-spill trends (1989-1998) of marine bird populations in Prince William Sound (PWS) following the Exxon Valdez oil spill (EVOS) to evaluate recovery of injured taxa. Two criteria were employed. First, we examined population trends of injured taxa only in the oiled area of PWS using regression models. Second, we examined population trends of injured taxa in the oiled area relative to the unoiled area using homogeneity of the slopes tests. We considered a population recovering if there was a positive trend using either criteria. We considered a population not recovering if there was no trend using either criteria or a negative trend in the oiled area. A significant negative trend in the oiled area relative to the unoiled area was considered a continuing and increasing effect. Most taxa for which injury was previously demonstrated were not recovering and some taxa showed evidence of increasing effects nine years after the oil spill. Four taxa (loons Gavia spp, Harlequin Duck Histrionicus histrionicus, Bufflehead Bucephala spp, and North-western Crow Corvus caurinus) showed weak to very weak evidence of recovery. None of these taxa showed positive trends in both winter and summer. Nine taxa (grebes Podiceps spp, cormorants Phalacrocorax spp, Black Oystercatcher Haematopus bachmani, Mew Gull Larus canus, Glaucous-winged Gull Larus glaucescens, terns Sterna spp, murres Uria spp, Pigeon Guillemot Cepphus columba, and murrelets Brachyramphus spp) showed no evidence of recovery during summer or winter. Four taxa (scoters Melanitta spp, mergansers Mergus spp, goldeneyes Bucephala spp, and Black-legged Kittiwaka Rissa tridactyla) showed evidence of continuing, increasing effects. We showed evidence of slow recovery, lack of recovery, and divergent population trends in many taxa which utilize shoreline and nearshore habitats where oil is likely to persist. Potential lingering spill effects and natural variability appear to be acting in concert in delaying recovery of many PWS bird populations.}, }
@article {pmid11377732, year = {2001}, author = {Deng, C and Kaplan, G and Rogers, LJ}, title = {Similarity of the song nuclei of male and female Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen).}, journal = {Behavioural brain research}, volume = {123}, number = {1}, pages = {89-102}, doi = {10.1016/s0166-4328(01)00200-5}, pmid = {11377732}, issn = {0166-4328}, mesh = {Animals ; Basal Nucleus of Meynert/anatomy &amp; histology/cytology/physiology ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Birds/*physiology ; Brain/anatomy &amp; histology/cytology/*physiology ; Coloring Agents ; Courtship ; Female ; Male ; Neostriatum/anatomy &amp; histology/cytology/physiology ; Sex Characteristics ; Tissue Fixation ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The organisation of the song control nuclei of the Australian magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen), a species with highly complex song, was investigated. In contrast to most of the songbirds studied so far, the Australian magpie sings throughout the year and both males and females sing. All of the forebrain song nuclei, including the high vocal centre (HVC), the robust nucleus of the archistriatum (RA), Area X and the lateral and medial magnocellular nuclei of the anterior neostriatum (lMAN and mMAN) were found to be well developed in both male and female magpies. Consistent with the known vocal competence of juvenile magpies, all of the song nuclei were also well-developed in juvenile magpies (2--3 months old). HVC in both male and female magpies consists of a rostrolateral and a caudomedial region. The ventromedial part of RA differs from the dorsolateral part by having medium-sized neurons packed in higher density. The HVC to RA projections were labelled anterogradely by DiI and DiA. However, no HVC to Area X projections were labeled by DiI or DiA, suggesting a possible difference from songbirds studied previously.}, }
@article {pmid11372976, year = {2001}, author = {Dohm, DJ and Turell, MJ}, title = {Effect of incubation at overwintering temperatures on the replication of West Nile Virus in New York Culex pipiens (Diptera: Culicidae).}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {38}, number = {3}, pages = {462-464}, doi = {10.1603/0022-2585-38.3.462}, pmid = {11372976}, issn = {0022-2585}, mesh = {Animals ; Culex/*virology ; New York ; Seasons ; Temperature ; *Virus Replication ; West Nile virus/*physiology ; }, abstract = {We examined the effect of simulated overwintering temperatures on West Nile (WN) virus replication in Culex pipiens L. derived from mosquitoes collected during the autumn 1999 WN epizootic in New York. The WN virus was a strain isolated from a dead crow also collected during this outbreak. Virus was recovered from most mosquitoes held exclusively at 26 degres C. In contrast, none of the mosquitoes held exclusively at the lower temperatures had detectable infections. When mosquitoes were transferred to 26 degrees C after being held at 10 degrees C for 21-42 d, infection and dissemination rates increased with increased incubation at 26 degrees C. Future studies involving the attempted isolation of WN virus from overwintering mosquitoes may benefit from holding the mosquitoes at 26 degrees C before testing for infectious virus.}, }
@article {pmid11364910, year = {1997}, author = {Lalezari, J}, title = {Drug-resistant herpes: cidofovir gel in limbo. Interview with Jay Lalezari, M.D. Interview by John S. James.}, journal = {AIDS treatment news}, volume = {}, number = {No 283}, pages = {5-6}, pmid = {11364910}, issn = {1052-4207}, mesh = {Administration, Topical ; Antiviral Agents/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Cidofovir ; Clinical Trials as Topic ; Cytosine/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Drug Approval ; Drug Resistance, Microbial ; Gels ; Herpesviridae Infections/*drug therapy ; *Organophosphonates ; Organophosphorus Compounds/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Treatment Outcome ; United States ; United States Food and Drug Administration ; }, }
@article {pmid11345328, year = {2001}, author = {Sonerud, GA and Smedshaug, CA and Bråthen, O}, title = {Ignorant hooded crows follow knowledgeable roost-mates to food: support for the information centre hypothesis.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {268}, number = {1469}, pages = {827-831}, doi = {10.1098/rspb.2001.1586}, pmid = {11345328}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Food ; Male ; Models, Biological ; Social Behavior ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Communal roosting in birds may function to enhance foraging efficiency as explained by the information centre hypothesis, which predicts that successful foragers return from the roost to the rewarding food patch and that birds ignorant of this food follow knowledgeable roost-mates. We tested these predictions by exposing 34 radio-tagged, free-ranging, flock-living hooded crows (Corvus corone cornix) to a novel experimental set-up mimicking a superfluous food patch with maximum temporal and spatial unpredictability Each replicate lasted two days and was located on a new site. Data were collected during ten replicates over three years. First, a crow was more likely to visit the experimental food patch on the second day when it had been there on the first day. Second, when a crow had not been at this food patch on the first day, it was more likely to visit it on the second day if it had roosted together with a crow that had been there on the first day, but only if this knowledgeable roost-mate returned to the food patch on the second day. Our results support the information centre hypothesis and suggest that communal roosting might function to enhance foraging efficiency in hooded crows.}, }
@article {pmid11328243, year = {2001}, author = {Dam, H}, title = {Depression in stroke patients 7 years following stroke.}, journal = {Acta psychiatrica Scandinavica}, volume = {103}, number = {4}, pages = {287-293}, doi = {10.1034/j.1600-0447.2001.103004287.x}, pmid = {11328243}, issn = {0001-690X}, mesh = {Activities of Daily Living ; Aged ; Anti-Inflammatory Agents ; Brain/*pathology ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/etiology ; Depressive Disorder, Major/diagnosis/epidemiology/*etiology ; Dexamethasone ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Functional Laterality/physiology ; Humans ; Hydrocortisone/metabolism ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Severity of Illness Index ; Stroke/*psychology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To study the frequency of depression in stroke patients many years following stroke, most previous studies having concentrated on the first few years.<br><br>METHOD: Participants of a previous study of post-stroke depression (99 stroke patients and 28 control subjects) were re-examined 7 years later. Depression was diagnosed using research diagnostic criteria. The test battery comprised the Mini Mental State Examination, the Raven Matrices A+B and Word Pair Learning. Subjective experience of changes in memory, concentration, mood, irritability and fatigue during the 7-year period was also examined.<br><br>RESULTS: Twenty per cent of the stroke patients fulfilled the criteria for major or minor depression compared with 11% of the control subjects. No differences in cognitive function were found between depressed and non-depressed stroke patients. The stroke patients reported experiencing more lability of mood and irritability during the 7-year period following stroke than the control subjects. Depressed stroke patients experienced more impairment of concentration and memory function than non-depressed stroke patients.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Affective symptoms are common among stroke patients 7 years following stroke.}, }
@article {pmid11327166, year = {2001}, author = {Shine, R and LeMaster, MP and Moore, IT and Olsson, MM and Mason, RT}, title = {Bumpus in the snake den: effects of sex, size, and body condition on mortality of red-sided garter snakes.}, journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution}, volume = {55}, number = {3}, pages = {598-604}, doi = {10.1554/0014-3820(2001)055[0598:bitsde]2.0.co;2}, pmid = {11327166}, issn = {0014-3820}, mesh = {Animals ; Asphyxia ; *Colubridae/growth &amp; development ; Female ; Male ; Manitoba ; *Mortality ; Predatory Behavior ; Sex Factors ; Songbirds ; Starvation ; }, abstract = {Huge breeding aggregations of red-sided garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis) at overwintering dens in Manitoba provide a unique opportunity to identify sources of mortality and to clarify factors that influence a snake's vulnerability to these factors. Comparisons of sexes, body sizes, and body condition of more than 1000 dead snakes versus live animals sampled at the same time reveal significant biases. Three primary sources of mortality were identified. Predation by crows, Corvus brachyrhynchos (590 snakes killed), was focussed mostly on small snakes of both sexes. Crows generally removed the snake's liver and left the carcass, but very small snakes were sometimes brought back to the nest. Suffocation beneath massive piles of other snakes within the den (301 dead animals) involved mostly small males and (to a lesser extent) large females; snakes in poor body condition were particularly vulnerable. Many emaciated snakes (n = 142, mostly females) also died without overt injuries, probably due to depleted energy reserves. These biases in vulnerability are readily interpretable from information on behavioral ecology of the snakes. For example, sex biases in mortality reflect differences in postemergence behavior and locomotor capacity, the greater attractiveness of larger females to males, and the high energy costs of reproduction for females.}, }
@article {pmid11325446, year = {2001}, author = {Rowbottom, CG and Nutting, CM and Webb, S}, title = {Beam-orientation optimization of intensity-modulated radiotherapy: clinical application to parotid gland tumours.}, journal = {Radiotherapy and oncology : journal of the European Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology}, volume = {59}, number = {2}, pages = {169-177}, doi = {10.1016/s0167-8140(00)00321-2}, pmid = {11325446}, issn = {0167-8140}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; Humans ; Parotid Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/adverse effects/*methods ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: An optimization algorithm has been developed to determine the best beam-arrangement for a small number of intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) fields. The algorithm is designed to avoid, if possible, beam-orientations that pass through organs-at-risk (OARs) with low radiation tolerance.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: An independent, fast IMRT algorithm based on the Bortfeld algorithm was developed to determine the profile of the intensity-modulated beams (IMBs) for each beam-arrangement and a fast-simulated-annealing algorithm finds the 'optimal' beam-arrangement. The final beam-arrangement was transferred to the CORVUS (NOMOS Corporation) treatment planning system, and the IMBs were re-optimized for comparison with a standard nine-field, equi-spaced arrangement. The algorithm has been initially tested on a single example patient, with a parotid gland carcinoma.<br><br>RESULTS: The nine-field, IMRT plan for an example patient with a parotid gland tumour significantly reduced the dose to the cochlea compared with the conformal radiotherapy plan. In addition, the planning-target-volume (PTV) homogeneity was improved, but the plan produced a higher dose to the contralateral parotid (73% of the OAR received more than 6 Gy). The beam-orientation optimization algorithm produced a three-field plan that greatly reduced the dose to the contralateral parotid (maximum dose of 2 Gy), whilst maintaining the PTV dose homogeneity and the reduced cochlear dose of the nine-field plan. Some changes in the dose to the other OARs, namely the brain and the oral cavity, were seen, but were deemed not to be clinically significant.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, IMB-orientation optimization for head and neck treatment sites can produce improvements in treatment plans with only a few fields.}, }
@article {pmid11322583, year = {2001}, author = {Björkqvist, K and Osterman, K}, title = {At what age do children learn to discriminate between act and actor?.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {92}, number = {1}, pages = {171-176}, doi = {10.2466/pms.2001.92.1.171}, pmid = {11322583}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Aging/*physiology ; Child Development/*physiology ; Child, Preschool ; Discrimination Learning/*physiology ; Humans ; }, abstract = {Children's ability to make moral judgements about an act on the basis of aspects of the act rather than on liking and preconceived ideas about the actor was investigated. 85 children of 4 age groups (preschool, Grades 1, 2, and 3, age range 5-9 years) participated. Act/Actor discrimination was investigated with a test consisting of 8 cartoons. In 4, a rabbit was behaving aggressively against a wolf; the other 4 portrayed identical acts with the wolf as aggressor and the rabbit as victim. Participants made moral evaluations of each cartoon. IQ was measured with Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices, and the general level of moral development was measured in accord with Piaget's (1932) criteria. Age, IQ, and general moral development correlated with discriminative ability for Act and Actor. In Piagetian terms, children at the heteronomous level were not capable of such discrimination, while children at the autonomous level (above 7 years of age) in general were.}, }
@article {pmid11316380, year = {2001}, author = {Lowe, MR and Foster, GD and Kerzhnerman, I and Swain, RM and Wadden, TA}, title = {Restrictive dieting vs. "undieting" effects on eating regulation in obese clinic attenders.}, journal = {Addictive behaviors}, volume = {26}, number = {2}, pages = {253-266}, doi = {10.1016/s0306-4603(00)00106-4}, pmid = {11316380}, issn = {0306-4603}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Ambulatory Care Facilities ; Body Mass Index ; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ; *Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Obesity/*diet therapy/*psychology ; Random Allocation ; Weight Loss ; }, abstract = {This study tested predictions from restraint theory [Herman &amp; Polivy (1984). A boundary model for the regulation of eating. In: A. J. Stunkard, &amp; E. Stellar (Eds.), Eating and its disorders (pp. 141-156) New York: Raven Press.] and the three-factor model of dieting [Psychol. Bull. 114 (1993) 100.] using an eating regulation paradigm. Participants were 42 obese, nonbinge eaters assigned to either a weight loss group (restrictive dieters or RDs) or a group designed to eliminate dieting ("undieters" or UDs). Participants took part in an ostensible ice cream taste test with or without a preload, both before and after the weight control intervention. At pretest, restraint theory's prediction that participants would engage in counter-regulatory eating was not supported. At posttest, after 8 weeks of the dieting interventions, RDs increased and UDs decreased their intake following a preload, a pattern most consistent with the predictions of restraint theory. This counter-regulatory trend was observed in spite of a significant decrease in RDs' Disinhibition scale scores following treatment. Implications of these findings for restraint theory, the three-factor model of dieting, and relapse in obesity treatment were discussed.}, }
@article {pmid11315225, year = {2001}, author = {Lai, TJ and Guo, YL and Guo, NW and Hsu, CC}, title = {Effect of prenatal exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls on cognitive development in children: a longitudinal study in Taiwan.}, journal = {The British journal of psychiatry. Supplement}, volume = {40}, number = {}, pages = {s49-52}, doi = {10.1192/bjp.178.40.s49}, pmid = {11315225}, issn = {0960-5371}, mesh = {Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition Disorders/*chemically induced ; Developmental Disabilities/chemically induced ; Embryonic and Fetal Development/*drug effects ; Female ; *Food Contamination ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Oryza ; Plant Oils ; Polychlorinated Biphenyls/*poisoning ; Pregnancy ; *Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects ; Taiwan ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: From 1978 to 1979, a group of people in Taiwan were exposed to high levels of heat-degraded polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) owing to accidental ingestion of contaminated rice oil. Children born to mothers following the exposure ('Yucheng' children) were known to have hyperpigmented skin and other dysmorphology after birth.<br><br>AIMS: To determine the effect of prenatal exposure to PCBs on cognitive development in Yucheng children.<br><br>METHOD: One hundred and eighteen Yucheng children prenatally exposed to PCBs and degradation products, and community-matched control children who were exposed to background levels only, were followed from 1985 to 1998. The Bayley Scale for Infant Development, Chinese version of the Stanford-Binet IQ Test, Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices and Raven's Standardised Progressive Matrices were used to assess the cognitive development of these children.<br><br>RESULTS: The Yucheng children scored lower than control children on each of these methods of measurement between the ages of 2 and 12 years.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Prenatal exposure to PCBs and their derivatives has long-term adverse effects on cognitive development in humans.}, }
@article {pmid11310888, year = {2001}, author = {Perez, M and Henke, SE and Fedynich, AM}, title = {Detection of aflatoxin-contaminated grain by three granivorous bird species.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {37}, number = {2}, pages = {358-361}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-37.2.358}, pmid = {11310888}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Aflatoxins/*analysis ; Animal Feed/*microbiology ; Animals ; Aspergillus ; Aspergillus flavus ; Avoidance Learning/physiology ; Colinus/*physiology ; Columbidae/*physiology ; Food Preferences/*physiology ; Random Allocation ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Supplemental feeding of game species and the use of backyard feeders to attract avian wildlife are common practices throughout the United States. However, these activities may expose wildlife to aflatoxins. We tested the hypothesis that wild birds would avoid consuming aflatoxin-contaminated feed. Individual northern bobwhites (Colinus virginianus), white-winged doves (Zenaida asiatica), and green jays (Cyanocorax yncas) were presented with feeders that had four compartments, which contained milo that was contaminated with aflatoxin levels of 0, 100, 500, and 1,000 microg/kg, respectively. Feed remaining was weighed at 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, 60, and 72 hr after the initiation of the trial. White-winged doves and northern bobwhites did not avoid contaminated feed. However, green jays selected against aflatoxin-tainted grain. Because white-winged doves and northern bobwhites did not avoid contaminated feed, the risk of exposure to this potentially hazardous toxin exists for these species.}, }
@article {pmid11296813, year = {2001}, author = {Turell, MJ and O'Guinn, ML and Dohm, DJ and Jones, JW}, title = {Vector competence of North American mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) for West Nile virus.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {38}, number = {2}, pages = {130-134}, doi = {10.1603/0022-2585-38.2.130}, pmid = {11296813}, issn = {0022-2585}, mesh = {Aedes/*virology ; Animals ; Chickens ; Culex/*virology ; Female ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; New York City/epidemiology ; North America ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/virology ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {We evaluated the potential for several North American mosquito species to transmit the newly introduced West Nile (WN) virus. Mosquitoes collected in the New York City metropolitan area during the recent WN virus outbreak, at the Assateague Island Wildlife Refuge, VA, or from established colonies were allowed to feed on chickens infected with WN virus isolated from a crow that died during the 1999 outbreak. These mosquitoes were tested approximately 2 wk later to determine infection, dissemination, and transmission rates. Aedes albopictus (Skuse), Aedes atropalpus (Coquillett), and Aedes japonicus (Theobald) were highly susceptible to infection, and nearly all individuals with a disseminated infection transmitted virus by bite. Culex pipiens L. and Aedes sollicitans (Walker) were moderately susceptible. In contrast, Aedes vexans (Meigen), Aedes aegypti (L.), and Aedes taeniorhynchus (Wiedemann) were relatively refractory to infection, but individual mosquitoes inoculated with WN virus did transmit virus by bite. Infected female Cx. pipiens transmitted WN virus to one of 1,618 F1 progeny, indicating the potential for vertical transmission of this virus. In addition to laboratory vector competence, host-feeding preferences, relative abundance, and season of activity also determine the role that these species could play in transmitting WN virus.}, }
@article {pmid11293841, year = {2001}, author = {Gerritsen, M and Berg, I and Deelman, B}, title = {[Snijders-Oomen Nonverbal Intelligence Test: useful for the elderly?].}, journal = {Tijdschrift voor gerontologie en geriatrie}, volume = {32}, number = {1}, pages = {24-28}, pmid = {11293841}, issn = {0167-9228}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Feasibility Studies ; Female ; *Geriatric Psychiatry ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests/*standards ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Netherlands ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Reference Values ; }, abstract = {The feasibility of the SON-R 5 1/2-17, a non-verbal intelligence test for deaf children, was investigated in a group of older adults, with a view to the future use of the test in older neurological patients. In a group of 58 healthy elderly persons intelligence was measured with the SON, the Raven Progressive Matrices and a Dutch reading test. The subjects were also asked for their subjective judgements of the tests. The SON-R 5 1/2-17 appears to be a user-friendly test. The high correlations between the subtests, and between the SON and other measures of intelligence suggest that the SON is a valid test for measuring fluid intelligence in elderly persons. The existing norms are not suitable when the SON is used in elderly people, new norms for adults should therefore be developed.}, }
@article {pmid11283080, year = {2001}, author = {Beard, PM and Daniels, MJ and Henderson, D and Pirie, A and Rudge, K and Buxton, D and Rhind, S and Greig, A and Hutchings, MR and McKendrick, I and Stevenson, K and Sharp, JM}, title = {Paratuberculosis infection of nonruminant wildlife in Scotland.}, journal = {Journal of clinical microbiology}, volume = {39}, number = {4}, pages = {1517-1521}, pmid = {11283080}, issn = {0095-1137}, mesh = {Animals ; *Animals, Wild ; Feces/microbiology ; Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis/*isolation &amp; purification ; Paratuberculosis/*epidemiology/microbiology/pathology ; Ruminants ; Scotland/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Recent reports of natural paratuberculosis (or Johne's disease) in rabbits, foxes, and stoats has focused debate on the presence and importance of wildlife reservoirs in the epidemiology of this disease. This paper describes an extensive study investigating 18 nonruminant wildlife species for evidence of paratuberculosis. Using both culture and histopathological analysis, fox, stoat, weasel, crow, rook, jackdaw, rat, wood mouse, hare, and badger were found to harbor Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis, the causative organism of paratuberculosis, suggesting that the epidemiology of this disease is more complex than previously realized.}, }
@article {pmid11276926, year = {2001}, author = {Azizi, F and Afkhami, M and Sarshar, A and Nafarabadi, M}, title = {Effects of transient neonatal hyperthyrotropinemia on intellectual quotient and psychomotor performance.}, journal = {International journal for vitamin and nutrition research. Internationale Zeitschrift fur Vitamin- und Ernahrungsforschung. Journal international de vitaminologie et de nutrition}, volume = {71}, number = {1}, pages = {70-73}, doi = {10.1024/0300-9831.71.1.70}, pmid = {11276926}, issn = {0300-9831}, mesh = {Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Cohort Studies ; *Congenital Hypothyroidism ; Female ; Humans ; Hypothyroidism/psychology ; Infant, Newborn ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Iodine/*deficiency/urine ; Male ; *Psychomotor Performance ; Thyroid Hormones ; Thyrotropin/*blood ; Thyroxine/blood ; }, abstract = {Transient neonatal hyperthyrotropinemia (TNH) occurs frequently in areas of iodine deficiency. To evaluate the effect of TNH in intellectual function and psychomotor performance, a historical cohohrt study was performed in 9 years old children with documented TNH at birth. 18 children with TNH who had been born in Mahdieh Hospital were studied at age 9 and compared to 19 matcheal children born at the same time, but having normal thyroid function at birth. Global intelligence (IQ) and psychomotor performance were evaluated with Raven and Bender-Gestalt tests, respectively. Total serum T4 and T3 by commercial RIA and TSH by IRMA. Urine was tested for iodine content by digestion method. Height and weight were similar in two groups at birth and at 9 years of age. Thyroid function tests were similar in the two groups except for TSH at birth which was higher in TNH than in control group (23.4 +/- 8.3 vs 3.6 +/- 1.0 mU/L, P < 0.001). Results of T4, T3, resine uptake, and urinary iodine at 9 years of age were not different between two groups. Mean IQ was 98 +/- 11 and 106 +/- 8 in TNH and normal children, respectively (P < 0.01). There was no significant difference between psychomotor performance in the two groups. There was no correlation between TSH at birth and IQ at 9 years of age. The present finding suggests that TNH can adversely affect longterm intellectual development.}, }
@article {pmid11276911, year = {2000}, author = {Anderson, B}, title = {The g factor in non-human animals.}, journal = {Novartis Foundation symposium}, volume = {233}, number = {}, pages = {79-90; discussion 90-5}, pmid = {11276911}, issn = {1528-2511}, mesh = {Animals ; Brain/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Cognition ; Columbidae ; Haplorhini ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Learning/physiology ; Mice ; Pan troglodytes ; Raccoons ; Raptors ; Rats ; Thinking ; *Vertebrates ; }, abstract = {Animals possess the attributes we label as 'intelligent' in humans. 'Insight' and 'reasoning' have been demonstrated in chimpanzees, monkeys, racoons, rats, mice, ravens and pigeons. In the rat, the animal species best characterized psychologically and neuroanatomically, reasoning ability correlates with other cognitive capacities and brain size. Other learning task paradigms tested on mice and rats have confirmed consistent individual differences, indicated a neuroanatomical network for learning, and shown the presence of genetic influences for cognitive ability. Animals offer an opportunity to test ideas about intelligence that cannot be performed on humans. Methylazoxymethanol (MAM) administered prenatally can arrest cortical cell division and produce a 'mentally retarded' microcephalic rat. This intellectual deficiency can be ameliorated by postnatal induction of dendritic arborization and synapse formation with naltrexone, suggesting the relevance of neuronal and synapse number for behavioural variation in rat g. Inbred mice lines differ in brain size and behaviour, permitting, through the use of recombinant inbred strains, the determination of genetic loci with quantitative effects on structure and function. Lastly, genetic contributions to g can be directly tested by modifying gene expression and determining the anatomical, physiological, and behavioural benefits.}, }
@article {pmid11276904, year = {2000}, author = {Flynn, JR}, title = {IQ gains, WISC subtests and fluid g: g theory and the relevance of Spearman's hypothesis to race.}, journal = {Novartis Foundation symposium}, volume = {233}, number = {}, pages = {202-16; discussion 216-27}, doi = {10.1002/0470870850.ch13}, pmid = {11276904}, issn = {1528-2511}, mesh = {Brain/*physiology ; Child ; Cross-Cultural Comparison ; Educational Status ; Humans ; *Intelligence/genetics/physiology ; Learning ; Models, Psychological ; *Psychometrics ; *Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {IQ gains over time were calculated for each WISC (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children) subtest and the subtests ranked by size of gain. Verbal similarities led at 20 points per generation--larger than gains on Raven's Progressive Matrices. Similarities measures on-the-spot problem-solving (something akin to fluid g); verbal subtests that do not measure this show low rates of gain. WISC subtests were also ranked by their correlations with Raven's, the latter being used as a marker for fluid g. The r between the two hierarchies was calculated to approximate a correlation between IQ gains and fluid g. The result of 0.50 contrasts with the negative correlation between IQ gains and the g generated by factor analysing the WISC battery itself, which is generally viewed as predominately a crystallized g. In sum, it appears that human groups can make massive fluid g gains in a period too short to accommodate radical change in the speed and efficiency of neural processes. Moreover, once gains in intelligent behaviour over historical time are seen to be independent of brain physiology, does g really provide a criterion for assessing their significance? Finally, not only a measure of fluid g (which is highly heritable) but also inbreeding depression are shown to be correlated with IQ gains--gains overwhelmingly environmental in origin. Therefore, correlations between such genetically influenced factors and the size of the black/white IQ gap do not show that the gap has a genetic component.}, }
@article {pmid11262845, year = {2001}, author = {Otonicar, B and Velikonja, V and Zorn, B}, title = {[Personality traits of men with Klinefelter syndrome and their partners].}, journal = {Gynecologie, obstetrique &amp; fertilite}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {123-128}, doi = {10.1016/s1297-9589(00)00059-x}, pmid = {11262845}, issn = {1297-9589}, mesh = {Adult ; Attitude ; Female ; Humans ; Infertility, Male/etiology ; Intelligence ; Klinefelter Syndrome/complications/*psychology ; Labor, Obstetric ; Male ; *Personality ; Pregnancy ; Sexual Partners ; Sexuality ; Social Behavior ; Spouses ; }, abstract = {The aim of the study was to find whether personality traits of men with Klinefelter syndrome and their partners (group 1-n = 17) differ from those of couples affected by idiopathic infertility (group 2; n = 16) and from those of fertile couples (group 3 n = 17). We further investigated the attitudes of the three groups towards pregnancy, labour and sexuality to find potential différences among the three groups. Besides, we verified the hypotheses of below average or low average intelligence of men with Klinefelter syndrome, and of inferior quality of social life in these men. The data were collected using the interview on medical history, the questionnaire on attitudes towards pregnancy, labour and sexuality (S-S-G), the personality questionnaire MMPI-2. The Raven progressive matrices were used only in group 1. The results show that men with Klinefelter syndrome and their partners do not differ significantly from the couples with idiopathic infertility (group 2), having some shizoide traits in their personality structure and mostly negative attitudes towards pregnancy, labour and sexuality. However, a significant difference has been found between the Klinefelter syndrome group and the fertile couples group. The hypothesis of below average intelligence has not been confirmed, but the quality of social life of men with Klinefelter syndrome has been found inférior. We may thus conclude that in the management of infertile couples in whom the man has been affected by Klinefelter syndrome, the personality structure, importantly affecting the outcome of treatment, should be taken into consideration.}, }
@article {pmid11246430, year = {2000}, author = {Lassus, C}, title = {Benefits from lifting of the lower eyelid.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {24}, number = {6}, pages = {424-428}, doi = {10.1007/s002660010071}, pmid = {11246430}, issn = {0364-216X}, mesh = {Adipose Tissue/surgery ; Adult ; Blepharoplasty/*methods ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Rhytidoplasty/methods ; Suture Techniques ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {Lifting the lower eyelid includes removing skin excess of the lid and, most of the time, improves the fat herniation without any removal of the fat because of the tension of the orbicularis muscle obtained with this maneuver. The "lifting" also corrects the arcus marginalis as well as malar bags when they exist. Most of the crow's-feet lines are eliminated by this procedure, and the superior aspect of the nasolabial fold is often considerably smoothed.}, }
@article {pmid11243664, year = {2001}, author = {, }, title = {Psychological problems in New Zealand primary health care: a report on the pilot phase of the Mental Health and General Practice Investigation (MaGPIe).}, journal = {The New Zealand medical journal}, volume = {114}, number = {1124}, pages = {13-16}, pmid = {11243664}, issn = {0028-8446}, mesh = {*Family Practice ; Humans ; Mental Disorders/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; *Mental Health ; New Zealand/epidemiology ; Pilot Projects ; Prevalence ; Primary Health Care ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {AIM: To carry out a pilot study in two regions in order to investigate prevalence of psychological problems in primary care in New Zealand.<br><br>METHOD: General Practitioners (GPs) within two geographic regions were randomly selected. All adult attenders at their practice on selected days were administered a short questionnaire, the GHQ-12, which assesses the presence of psychological symptoms. The GP recorded the reasons for each consultation, and was interviewed at the end of each day about selected patients, to determine their opinion about the type of psychological problems experienced.<br><br>RESULTS: Three-quarters of selected GPs (76%) agreed to participate. 96% of patients attending their GP agreed to complete the GHQ. Scores from 385 completed GHQ screening questionnaires suggested that 23.4% of GP patients had significant psychological symptoms. When GPs were asked about the main reason for consultation, they identified only 5.7% of current consultations as being for psychological reasons. In contrast, the GPs thought that 20.6% of patients described having some symptoms which were either mildly, moderately or completely psychological in the current consultation, and recognised that 17.4% of their patients had a mild, moderate or severe case of psychological disorder over the past twelve months.<br><br>CONCLUSION: GPs identified one in five of their patients as having symptoms which were mildly, moderately or completely psychological, although psychological factors were the main reason for consultation in only one patient in twenty. Previous reports of very low rates of psychological problems among GP attenders in New Zealand have been thought to indicate major differences in access to health care or prevalence of common mental disorders within primary care services in this country. However, the apparently low rates of conspicuous mental disorder in New Zealand general practices may be better explained as an artifact of the type of questions asked.}, }
@article {pmid11242341, year = {2000}, author = {Fagien, S}, title = {Intraoperative Injection of Botulinum Toxin A into Orbicularis Oculi Muscle for the Treatment of Crow's Feet.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {105}, number = {6}, pages = {2226-2228}, doi = {10.1097/00006534-200005000-00050}, pmid = {11242341}, issn = {1529-4242}, }
@article {pmid11242328, year = {2000}, author = {Guerrissi, JO}, title = {Intraoperative Injection of Botulinum Toxin A into Orbicularis Oculi Muscle for the Treatment of Crow's Feet.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {104}, number = {6}, pages = {2219-2225}, pmid = {11242328}, issn = {1529-4242}, abstract = {The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the degree of efficacy of eliminating crow's feet by means of direct injection of botulinum toxin A into orbicularis oculi muscles under direct surgical vision during either blepharoplasty or face lift operations. Eighteen patients were injected with Botox A-14 in each orbicularis oculi muscle. Dilution was obtained by adding 4 ml of preservative-free saline to 100 IU of Botox A. Doses ranged from 15 to 50 IU in each muscle, varying according to the severity of wrinkles and intensity of muscle contraction. In 10 patients (56 percent), the Botox was injected throughout the outer surface of both orbicularis oculi dissected during a face-lift operation. In eight other patients (44 percent), the toxin was injected into the inner surface of both orbicularis oculi exposed during classic blepharoplasty procedures. Most authors have demonstrated that the effect produced by transcutaneous Botox lasts between 4 and 6 months; the paralysis obtained by direct muscular injection was effective for 9 months in 14 patients (78 percent) and 10 months in the other 4 patients (22 percent). Results were documented by means of preinjection and postinjection photographs, videotapes, and electromyographs. Neither local nor general adverse effects were noted. The improvement obtained in crow's feet was satisfactory to the patient and to us. The use of Botox intraoperatively permitted at the same time not only the treatment of crow's feet by paralysis of orbicularis oculi muscles but also the correction of senile changes in the lids and face by means of either blepharoplasty or face-lift operations.}, }
@article {pmid11240573, year = {2001}, author = {Parnas, J and Vianin, P and Saebye, D and Jansson, L and Volmer-Larsen, A and Bovet, P}, title = {Visual binding abilities in the initial and advanced stages of schizophrenia.}, journal = {Acta psychiatrica Scandinavica}, volume = {103}, number = {3}, pages = {171-180}, doi = {10.1034/j.1600-0447.2001.00160.x}, pmid = {11240573}, issn = {0001-690X}, mesh = {Adult ; Cerebral Cortex/physiopathology ; Chronic Disease ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/*etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory Disorders/diagnosis/etiology ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Optical Illusions ; Reaction Time ; Schizophrenia/*complications/*diagnosis/physiopathology ; Severity of Illness Index ; Space Perception/*physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The study tests the hypothesis that intramodal visual binding is disturbed in schizophrenia and should be detectable in all illness stages as a stable trait marker.<br><br>METHOD: Three groups of patients (rehospitalized chronic schizophrenic, first admitted schizophrenic and schizotypal patients believed to be suffering from a pre-schizophrenic prodrome) and a group of normal control subjects were tested on three tasks targeting visual 'binding' abilities (Muller-Lyer's illusion and two figure detection tasks) in addition to control parameters such as reaction time, visual selective attention, Raven's test and two conventional cortical tasks of spatial working memory (SWM) and a global local test.<br><br>RESULTS: Chronic patients had a decreased performance on the binding tests. Unexpectedly, the prodromal group exhibited an enhanced Gestalt extraction on these tests compared both to schizophrenic patients and to healthy subjects. Furthermore, chronic schizophrenia was associated with a poor performance on cortical tests of SWM, global local and on Raven. This association appears to be mediated by or linked to the chronicity of the illness.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The study confirms a variety of neurocognitive deficits in schizophrenia which, however, in this sample seem to be linked to chronicity of illness. However, certain aspects of visual processing concerned with Gestalt extraction deserve attention as potential vulnerability- or prodrome- indicators. The initial hypothesis of the study is rejected.}, }
@article {pmid11240261, year = {2001}, author = {Chao, KS and Bosch, WR and Mutic, S and Lewis, JS and Dehdashti, F and Mintun, MA and Dempsey, JF and Perez, CA and Purdy, JA and Welch, MJ}, title = {A novel approach to overcome hypoxic tumor resistance: Cu-ATSM-guided intensity-modulated radiation therapy.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {49}, number = {4}, pages = {1171-1182}, doi = {10.1016/s0360-3016(00)01433-4}, pmid = {11240261}, issn = {0360-3016}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/diagnostic imaging/metabolism/radiotherapy ; *Cell Hypoxia ; Coordination Complexes ; Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation ; Feasibility Studies ; Head and Neck Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging/*radiotherapy ; Humans ; *Organometallic Compounds/pharmacokinetics ; *Phantoms, Imaging ; *Thiosemicarbazones/pharmacokinetics ; Tomography, Emission-Computed ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: Locoregional tumor control for locally advanced cancers with radiation therapy has been unsatisfactory. This is in part associated with the phenomenon of tumor hypoxia. Assessing hypoxia in human tumors has been difficult due to the lack of clinically noninvasive and reproducible methods. A recently developed positron emission tomography (PET) imaging-based hypoxia measurement technique which employs a Cu(II)-diacetyl-bis(N(4)-methylthiosemicarbazone) (Cu-ATSM) tracer is of great interest. Oxygen electrode measurements in animal experiments have demonstrated a strong correlation between low tumor pO(2) and excess (60)Cu-ATSM accumulation. Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) allows selective targeting of tumor and sparing of normal tissues. In this study, we examined the feasibility of combining these novel technologies to develop hypoxia imaging (Cu-ATSM)-guided IMRT, which may potentially deliver higher dose of radiation to the hypoxic tumor subvolume to overcome inherent hypoxia-induced radioresistance without compromising normal tissue sparing.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: A custom-designed anthropomorphic head phantom containing computed tomography (CT) and positron emitting tomography (PET) visible targets consisting of plastic balls and rods distributed throughout the "cranium" was fabricated to assess the spatial accuracy of target volume mapping after multimodality image coregistration. For head-and-neck cancer patients, a CT and PET imaging fiducial marker coregistration system was integrated into the thermoplastic immobilization head mask with four CT and PET compatible markers to assist image fusion on a Voxel-Q treatment-planning computer. This system was implemented on head-and-neck cancer patients, and the gross tumor volume (GTV) was delineated based on physical and radiologic findings. Within GTV, regions with a (60)Cu-ATSM uptake twice that of contralateral normal neck muscle were operationally designated as ATSM-avid or hypoxic tumor volume (hGTV) for this feasibility study. These target volumes along with other normal organs contours were defined and transferred to an inverse planning computer (Corvus, NOMOS) to create a hypoxia imaging-guided IMRT treatment plan.<br><br>RESULTS: A study of the accuracy of target volume mapping showed that the spatial fidelity and imaging distortion after CT and PET image coregistration and fusion were within 2 mm in phantom study. Using fiducial markers to assist CT/PET imaging fusion in patients with carcinoma of the head-and-neck area, a heterogeneous distribution of (60)Cu-ATSM within the GTV illustrated the success of (60)Cu-ATSM PET to select an ATSM-avid or hypoxic tumor subvolume (hGTV). We further demonstrated the feasibility of Cu-ATSM-guided IMRT by showing an example in which radiation dose to the hGTV could be escalated without compromising normal tissue (parotid glands and spinal cord) sparing. The plan delivers 80 Gy in 35 fractions to the ATSM-avid tumor subvolume and the GTV simultaneously receives 70 Gy in 35 fractions while more than one-half of the parotid glands are spared to less than 30 Gy.<br><br>CONCLUSION: We demonstrated the feasibility of a novel Cu-ATSM-guided IMRT approach through coregistering hypoxia (60)Cu-ATSM PET to the corresponding CT images for IMRT planning. Future investigation is needed to establish a clinical-pathologic correlation between (60)Cu-ATSM retention and radiation curability, to understand tumor re-oxygenation kinetics, and tumor target uncertainty during a course of radiation therapy before implementing this therapeutic approach to patients with locally advanced tumor.}, }
@article {pmid11240007, year = {2001}, author = {Yamamoto, K and Furuya, I and Watanabe, S}, title = {Near-field visual acuity in Japanese jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos).}, journal = {Physiology &amp; behavior}, volume = {72}, number = {1-2}, pages = {283-286}, doi = {10.1016/s0031-9384(00)00356-5}, pmid = {11240007}, issn = {0031-9384}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Discrimination, Psychological/physiology ; Photic Stimulation ; Songbirds/*physiology ; Vision, Binocular/physiology ; Visual Acuity/*physiology ; Visual Fields/physiology ; }, abstract = {The near-field visual acuity of three Japanese jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) was determined by means of operant conditioning. The task was discrimination of grating stimuli, and the threshold was measured by up-and-down method between sessions. To keep observing distance constant, a photo sensor was used and the head position was behaviorally fixed. The average visual acuity was 8.4 cycles/degree. When compared with other birds, this result is better than that of pigeons, and worse than that of predators.}, }
@article {pmid11235669, year = {2001}, author = {Benrahmoune, M and Filali-Mouhim, A and Jay-Gerin, JP}, title = {[Electronic coupling and charge transfer of DNA: energy control].}, journal = {Canadian journal of physiology and pharmacology}, volume = {79}, number = {2}, pages = {122-129}, pmid = {11235669}, issn = {0008-4212}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Chemical Phenomena ; Chemistry, Physical ; DNA/*chemistry ; Electrochemistry ; Electrons ; Models, Molecular ; }, abstract = {The influence of the energetic gap on the effective distance-decay rate of electronic coupling (beta(eff)) in DNA is investigated in the context of the superexchange mechanism. The DNA double helix is described by a tight-binding electronic Hamiltonian model, in which all orbitals have the same energy and interact with one another through an exponentially decaying function of distance. Our numerical results concerning the beta(eff) values obtained for two different DNA molecules are analyzed within the theoretical framework of the "continuous-medium approximation," previously developed by Lopez-Castillo et al. (J.-M. Lopez-Castillo, A. Filali-Mouhim, I.L. Plante, and J.-P. Jay-Gerin. J. Phys. Chem. 99 : 6864-6875, 1995). We find that the intervening DNA bridge between the donor and acceptor sites is defined by a unique dimensionless control parameter gamma/E, where E is the energy of the orbitals of this medium with respect to those of the redox site orbitals (energetic gap) and gamma is the electronic band width of the bridge considered as a continuous medium. In the narrow-band regime, our "through-space" coupling model predicts beta(eff) values that are in good order of magnitude agreement with those calculated by other theoretical approaches as well as with those obtained from experiment. Moreover, under equivalent energetic conditions, the DNA-mediated transfers of holes and electrons differ considerably. This difference depends upon the sign of the parameter gamma/E.}, }
@article {pmid11227896, year = {2001}, author = {Dubey, JP and Garner, MW and Willette, MM and Batey, KL and Gardiner, CH}, title = {Disseminated toxoplasmosis in magpie geese (Anseranas semipalmata) with large numbers of tissue cysts in livers.}, journal = {The Journal of parasitology}, volume = {87}, number = {1}, pages = {219-223}, doi = {10.1645/0022-3395(2001)087[0219:DTIMGA]2.0.CO;2}, pmid = {11227896}, issn = {0022-3395}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Protozoan/blood ; Bird Diseases/*diagnosis/immunology/parasitology/pathology ; Fatal Outcome ; Female ; Geese/*parasitology ; Liver/parasitology ; Male ; Toxoplasma/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Toxoplasmosis, Animal/*diagnosis/immunology/parasitology/pathology ; }, abstract = {Fatal disseminated Toxoplasma gondii infection was diagnosed in 2 captive magpie geese (Anseranas semipalmata) from a zoo in Texas. Both geese died suddenly, without apparent clinical signs. Lesions associated with T. gondii tachyzoites were seen in lungs, pancreas, liver, adrenals, bursa of Fabricius, spleen, brain, and kidneys. Toxoplasmic pneumonia and hepatitis were considered to be the primary cause of death. An unusual feature was the presence of numerous tissue cysts in hepatocytes of both geese. The diagnosis was confirmed immunohistochemically. Antibodies to T. gondii were found in 2 of 11 other geese from the zoo examined using the modified agglutination test. This is the first report of T. gondii infection in magpie geese (Anseranas semipalmata).}, }
@article {pmid11222131, year = {2001}, author = {Rosén, M and Hedenström, A}, title = {Gliding flight in a jackdaw: a wind tunnel study.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {204}, number = {Pt 6}, pages = {1153-1166}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.204.6.1153}, pmid = {11222131}, issn = {0022-0949}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Female ; Flight, Animal/*physiology ; Mathematics ; Models, Biological ; Physical Phenomena ; Physics ; Songbirds/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Tail/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Wings, Animal/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; }, abstract = {We examined the gliding flight performance of a jackdaw Corvus monedula in a wind tunnel. The jackdaw was able to glide steadily at speeds between 6 and 11 m s(-1). The bird changed its wingspan and wing area over this speed range, and we measured the so-called glide super-polar, which is the envelope of fixed-wing glide polars over a range of forward speeds and sinking speeds. The glide super-polar was an inverted U-shape with a minimum sinking speed (V(ms)) at 7.4 m s(-1) and a speed for best glide (V(bg)) at 8.3 m s(-)). At the minimum sinking speed, the associated vertical sinking speed was 0.62 m s(-1). The relationship between the ratio of lift to drag (L:D) and airspeed showed an inverted U-shape with a maximum of 12.6 at 8.5 m s(-1). Wingspan decreased linearly with speed over the whole speed range investigated. The tail was spread extensively at low and moderate speeds; at speeds between 6 and 9 m s(-1), the tail area decreased linearly with speed, and at speeds above 9 m s(-1) the tail was fully furled. Reynolds number calculated with the mean chord as the reference length ranged from 38 000 to 76 000 over the speed range 6-11 m s(-1). Comparisons of the jackdaw flight performance were made with existing theory of gliding flight. We also re-analysed data on span ratios with respect to speed in two other bird species previously studied in wind tunnels. These data indicate that an equation for calculating the span ratio, which minimises the sum of induced and profile drag, does not predict the actual span ratios observed in these birds. We derive an alternative equation on the basis of the observed span ratios for calculating wingspan and wing area with respect to forward speed in gliding birds from information about body mass, maximum wingspan, maximum wing area and maximum coefficient of lift. These alternative equations can be used in combination with any model of gliding flight where wing area and wingspan are considered to calculate sinking rate with respect to forward speed.}, }
@article {pmid11219183, year = {2001}, author = {Schweizer, K and Koch, W}, title = {[Capacity limitation and intellectual ability].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur experimentelle Psychologie : Organ der Deutschen Gesellschaft fur Psychologie}, volume = {48}, number = {1}, pages = {1-19}, pmid = {11219183}, issn = {0949-3964}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aptitude ; *Attention ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; *Mental Recall ; Reaction Time ; Students/psychology ; }, abstract = {In a study examining the influence of cognitive capacity limitation on intellectual ability, 124 university students were subjected to 7 computer-based tests in which cognitive demands were manipulated by varying the number of required ordering, arithmetic, and memory operations, respectively. Intelligence data were obtained by forming a composite score from Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices and the Berlin Intelligence Structure Test. Increases in cognitive demands led to increases in reaction times and number of errors as well as to increases in common variance and in correlations between intelligence and number of errors in 5 and 2 (of 5) comparisons, respectively, while correlations between intelligence and reaction time were found to decrease with increasing task demands in 3 comparisons. All correlations were reduced considerably when storage capacity and coordination efficiency were partialled out. These findings suggest a relationship between capacity limitation and intellectual ability.}, }
@article {pmid11218795, year = {2001}, author = {Kulkin, J}, title = {A day in the life of managed care. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia's Jay Kulkin, MD.}, journal = {Healthplan}, volume = {42}, number = {1}, pages = {15-18}, pmid = {11218795}, issn = {1087-3678}, mesh = {Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance Plans/*organization &amp; administration ; Georgia ; Health Promotion ; Health Services Accessibility ; Job Description ; Managed Care Programs/*organization &amp; administration ; *Physician Executives ; }, }
@article {pmid11216376, year = {2000}, author = {Tandon, A and Kumari, S and Ramji, S and Malik, A and Singh, S and Nigam, VR}, title = {Intellectual psycho-educational and functional status of low birth weight survivors beyond 5 years of age.}, journal = {Indian journal of pediatrics}, volume = {67}, number = {11}, pages = {791-796}, pmid = {11216376}, issn = {0019-5456}, mesh = {Child ; Child Development/*physiology ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Low Birth Weight/physiology/*psychology ; Infant, Newborn ; Intelligence Tests ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Psychomotor Performance ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {To determine the intellectual, psycho-educational and functional status of low birth weight (LBW) survivors (birth weight < or = 2000 gms) beyond 5 years of age and to compare their status with normal birth weight counterparts. This was cross-sectional study. On hospital based cohort on longitudinal follow-up at the High Risk and Well Baby Clinics of a teaching hospital. The demographic data of these children was recorded. A detailed physical examination was performed. The tests of cognition included the Stanford Binet and the Raven's Progressive Matrices. Academic achievement was evaluated by the Wide range achievement test-Revised (WRAT-R). Assessment of visuo motor integration was done by the Bender Gestalt Test. The proportion of children having soft neurological signs was determined. Vineland Social Maturity Scale was performed on all children. Fifty-nine LBW children and fifty-seven matched control children participated in the study. 27 of LBW children were examined at a mean age of 7.0 +/- 1.1 years (group I) and 32 were examined at a mean age of 10.6 +/- 1.2 years (group II). The LBW children as a group performed in the normal range on the tests of cognition and academic achievement, but were significantly disadvantaged (p < 0.005) as compared to controls. A higher percentage of LBW children had low scores on the Bender Gestalt. Test as compared to controls but the difference was not significant. A significantly higher proportion of LBW children of both the groups showed the presence of soft neurological signs as compared to controls. The social quotient as assessed by the vineland Social Maturity Scale was significantly lower in the LBW children as compared to controls. Thus, though the LBW children were performing in the normal range on various measures, comparison with the control group showed that they were clearly disadvantaged on nearly every measure tested, emphasizing the need for early detection and referral for special education.}, }
@article {pmid11213025, year = {2001}, author = {Kanemaru, A and Kanemaru, K and Kuwajima, I}, title = {The effects of short-term blood pressure variability and nighttime blood pressure levels on cognitive function.}, journal = {Hypertension research : official journal of the Japanese Society of Hypertension}, volume = {24}, number = {1}, pages = {19-24}, doi = {10.1291/hypres.24.19}, pmid = {11213025}, issn = {0916-9636}, mesh = {Aged ; Blood Pressure/*physiology ; Blood Pressure Monitoring, Ambulatory ; Circadian Rhythm/physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; }, abstract = {We investigated the relationship between 24-h blood pressure (BP) and cognitive function. We performed the Hasegawa Dementia Scale Revised (HDSR), the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices Test (RCPM) in 88 subjects (71+/-9 years) with no history of stroke. Ambulatory BP was non-invasively measured using a TM2421 for 24 h in all patients. Whereas 90% of the scores converged into a narrow range between 25 and 30 points in the HDSR and the MMSE tests, the RCPM score was widely distributed, ranging from 9 to 36 points. The subjects were therefore divided into three groups of > or =25, 26-30, and 31-36 according to their RCPM scores. Subjects with lower scores were significantly associated with increased short-term BP variability during the daytime (p<0.05) and had a tendency toward higher nighttime SBP (p=0.05) compared with those with higher scores. Increased short-term variability of daytime BP and high nighttime systolic BP were associated with cognitive impairment as assessed by the RCPM. The RCPM, which can assess the capacity for judgment through visual information processing, may detect earlier stages of cognitive impairment related to high BP. To prevent a deterioration of cognitive function, strict control of nighttime BP and suppression of short-term BP variability are thus necessary.}, }
@article {pmid11212815, year = {2000}, author = {Hashiguchi, T and Arimura, K and Osame, M}, title = {[Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome].}, journal = {Ryoikibetsu shokogun shirizu}, volume = {}, number = {32}, pages = {595-598}, pmid = {11212815}, mesh = {Capillary Permeability ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Endothelial Growth Factors/blood/physiology ; Humans ; Lymphokines/blood/physiology ; Neovascularization, Pathologic ; *POEMS Syndrome/etiology/physiopathology ; Prognosis ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors ; }, }
@article {pmid11199511, year = {2001}, author = {Clayton, NS and Yu, KS and Dickinson, A}, title = {Scrub jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) form integrated memories of the multiple features of caching episodes.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Animal behavior processes}, volume = {27}, number = {1}, pages = {17-29}, pmid = {11199511}, issn = {0097-7403}, support = {NS3546503/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Feeding Behavior ; *Memory ; Space Perception ; Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Four experiments examined whether food-storing scrub jays remember when and where they cached different foods. The scrub jays cached and recovered perishable and nonperishable foods in visuospatially distinct and trial-unique cache sites. They rapidly learned to avoid searching for foods that had perished by the time of recovery, while continuing to search for the same foods after shorter retention intervals when the foods were still fresh. The temporal control of searching at recovery was also observed when the familiarity of cache sites did not provide any information about the time of caching and when the same food was cached in distinct sites at different times. The authors argue that the jays formed an integrated memory for the location and time of caching of particular foods.}, }
@article {pmid11197800, year = {2000}, author = {Niimi, H and Arimura, K and Jonosono, M and Hashiguchi, T and Kawabata, M and Osame, M and Kitajima, I}, title = {VEGF is causative for pulmonary hypertension in a patient with Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome.}, journal = {Internal medicine (Tokyo, Japan)}, volume = {39}, number = {12}, pages = {1101-1104}, doi = {10.2169/internalmedicine.39.1101}, pmid = {11197800}, issn = {0918-2918}, mesh = {Cytokines/blood ; Endothelial Growth Factors/*blood ; Female ; Humans ; Hypertension, Pulmonary/blood/*etiology/physiopathology ; Immunosuppressive Agents/therapeutic use ; Lymphokines/*blood ; Methylprednisolone/therapeutic use ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/blood/complications/*physiopathology ; Prednisolone/therapeutic use ; Tricuspid Valve Insufficiency/etiology ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors ; }, abstract = {We report a case of Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome associated with pulmonary hypertension (PH). In this case, the concentration of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was extremely high in the serum, and the levels of IL-1beta, IL-6, TNF-alpha, and thiamine, which were thought in past reports to be mediators of PH in Crow-Fukase syndrome, were normal. After prednisolone therapy, PH disappeared with a dramatic decrease in serum VEGF. Our results suggest that VEGF is closely correlated with PH in Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid11197122, year = {2000}, author = {Omland, KE and Tarr, CL and Boarma, WI and Marzluff, JM and Fleischer, RC}, title = {Cryptic genetic variation and paraphyly in ravens.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {267}, number = {1461}, pages = {2475-2482}, pmid = {11197122}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/classification/*genetics/physiology ; Cytochrome b Group/genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/*genetics ; Genetic Variation/*genetics ; Microsatellite Repeats/*genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; }, abstract = {Widespread species that are morphologically uniform may be likely to harbour cryptic genetic variation. Common ravens (Corvus corax) have an extensive range covering nearly the entire Northern Hemisphere, but show little discrete phenotypic variation. We obtained tissue samples from throughout much of this range and collected mitochondrial sequence and nuclear microsatellite data. Our study revealed a deep genetic break between ravens from the western United States and ravens from throughout the rest of the world. These two groups, the 'California clade' and the 'Holarctic clade' are well supported and over 4% divergent in mitochondrial coding sequence. Microsatellites also reveal significant differentiation between these two groups. Ravens from Minnesota, Maine and Alaska are more similar to ravens from Asia and Europe than they are to ravens from California. The two clades come in contact over a huge area of the western United States, with mixtures of the two mitochondrial groups present in Washington, Idaho and California. In addition, the restricted range Chihuahuan raven (Corvus cryptoleucus) of the south-west United States and Mexico is genetically nested within the paraphyletic common raven. Our findings suggest that the common raven may have formerly consisted of two allopatric groups that may be in the process of remerging.}, }
@article {pmid11195649, year = {2000}, author = {Swayne, DE and Beck, JR and Zaki, S}, title = {Pathogenicity of West Nile virus for turkeys.}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {44}, number = {4}, pages = {932-937}, pmid = {11195649}, issn = {0005-2086}, mesh = {Animals ; Poultry Diseases/mortality/pathology/*virology ; Turkeys/*virology ; Viremia/veterinary ; West Nile Fever/mortality/pathology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {In the fall of 1999, West Nile virus (WNV) was isolated during an outbreak of neurologic disease in humans, horses, and wild and zoological birds in New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey. Turkeys could potentially be a large reservoir for WNV because of the high-density turkey farming and the presence of large wild turkey populations in the eastern seaboard of the United States. Little is known about the pathogenicity of WNV in domestic or wild turkeys. Specific-pathogen-free 3-wk-old turkeys were inoculated subcutaneously with 10(3.3) mean tissue culture infective doses of a WNV strain isolated fromthe index case in a New York crow. No clinical signs were observed in the turkeys over the 21 days of the experiment. One turkey died abruptly at 8 days postinoculation (DPI). Many turkeys developed viremia between 2 and 10 DPI, but the average level of virus was very low, less than needed to efficiently infect mosquitos. Low levels of WNV were detected in feces on 4 and 7 DPI, but no virus was isolated from oropharyngeal swabs. WNV wasnot transmitted from WNV-inoculated to contact-exposed turkeys. All WNV-inoculated poults seroconverted on 7 DPI. In the turkey that died, WNV was not isolated from intestine, myocardium, brain, kidney, or cloacal and oropharyngeal swabs, but sparse viral antigen was demonstrated by immunohistochemistry in the heart and spleen. Turkeys in contact with WNV-inoculated turkeys and sham-inoculated controls lacked WNV specific antibodies,and WNV was not isolated from plasma and cloacal and oropharyngeal swabs. These data suggest that WNV lacks the potential to be a major new disease of turkeys and that turkeys will not be a significant amplifying host for infecting mosquitos.}, }
@article {pmid11191929, year = {2000}, author = {Bostantjopoulou, S and Katsarou, Z and Zafiriou, D and Gerasimou, G and Alevriadou, A and Georgiadis, G and Kiosseoglou, G and Kazis, A}, title = {Abnormality of N30 somatosensory evoked potentials in Parkinson's disease: a multidisciplinary approach.}, journal = {Neurophysiologie clinique = Clinical neurophysiology}, volume = {30}, number = {6}, pages = {368-376}, doi = {10.1016/s0987-7053(00)00235-5}, pmid = {11191929}, issn = {0987-7053}, mesh = {Aged ; Brain/diagnostic imaging ; Cerebrovascular Circulation ; Cognition Disorders/etiology ; *Evoked Potentials, Somatosensory ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Median Nerve/*physiopathology ; Middle Aged ; Models, Neurological ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/diagnostic imaging/*physiopathology/psychology ; Severity of Illness Index ; Tomography, Emission-Computed, Single-Photon ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Assess the N30 component of median nerve somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) and correlate its parameters with the severity of the disease, general cognitive ability and regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF).<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: Twenty-three non-demented, non-depressed PD patients (at stage II and III of the disease) and 23 age- and education-matched normal controls were enrolled in the study. SEPs were elicited by median nerve stimulation. PD patients' cognitive ability was assessed by means of: 1) Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM); 2) the Test of Non-Verbal Intelligence (TONI-2); and 3) the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST). The patients' rCBF was evaluated by HMPAO SPECT.<br><br>RESULTS: There was no difference between SEP N30 latency in PD patients and controls (P > 0.05). The P20-N30 peak-to-peak amplitude was lower in PD patients bilaterally (P < 0.05), and the amplitude of N30-P40 was lower on the right side only (P < 0.05). A significant increase in the amplitude ratio P14-N20/P20-N30 was observed in PD patients (P < 0.05). The correlation of these findings with the clinical parameters of the disease, and notably motor signs, was not significant. Of the three neuropsychological tests only the RCPM showed a positive relation to right P20-N30 amplitude. Regression analysis between SEP parameters and rCBF showed a correlation of N30 amplitude with blood flow in parietal cortical areas, but not in frontal regions.}, }
@article {pmid11189714, year = {2000}, author = {Komar, N}, title = {West Nile viral encephalitis.}, journal = {Revue scientifique et technique (International Office of Epizootics)}, volume = {19}, number = {1}, pages = {166-176}, doi = {10.20506/rst.19.1.1201}, pmid = {11189714}, issn = {0253-1933}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/transmission/virology ; Birds ; Culicidae ; *Disease Outbreaks ; Europe/epidemiology ; Horse Diseases/*epidemiology/transmission/virology ; Horses ; Humans ; Insect Vectors ; New York City/epidemiology ; North America/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/diagnosis/*epidemiology/therapy/transmission ; }, abstract = {West Nile virus (WNV) has emerged in recent years in temperate regions of Europe and North America, presenting a threat to both public and animal health. The most serious manifestation of infection is fatal encephalitis in humans and horses, as well as mortality in certain domestic and wild birds. A recent development in the epizootiology of this mosquito-borne flavivirus was the occurrence of a severe outbreak in New York City and surrounding areas. During this outbreak, mortality was observed in humans, horses, a cat and numerous species of wild birds, particularly members of the family Corvidae (crows). The author reviews basic information and summarises recent developments in the epidemiology and epizootiology of WNV.}, }
@article {pmid11188960, year = {2000}, author = {Gelpi, RJ and Pérez, ML and Rancich, AM and Mainetti, JA}, title = {[Confidentiality in medical oaths: (When the white crow becomes gray...)].}, journal = {Medicina}, volume = {60}, number = {4}, pages = {506-514}, pmid = {11188960}, issn = {0025-7680}, mesh = {*Confidentiality ; *Hippocratic Oath ; Humans ; *Physician-Patient Relations ; }, abstract = {Confidentiality, together with the ethical principles of beneficence and non-maleficence, is the most important rule in Medical Oaths at the present time. However, the scientific-technical advances in medicine have made this rule one of the most controversial ones because of its exceptions. In consequence, the aim of the present paper is to comparatively analyze the rule of confidentiality in Medical Oaths of different places, times, origins and in different versions of the Hippocratic Oath in order to determine what should be kept a secret and with what degree of commitment (absolute or "prima facie"). Of the thirty six analyzed Oaths, twenty-seven manifest this rule and nine do not. No relation was found between the manifestation of this rule and the place, time, origin and different versions of the Hippocratic Oath. Most pledges suggest not to reveal what has been seen or heard during the medical act, the same as in the Hippocratic Oath. Seven texts point out that confidentiality should be absolute and four give exceptions in connection with beneficence and justice principles and the moral duty of causing no damage to third parties. Two pledges specify protection of privacy. In conclusion, today confidentiality is considered to be a moral duty for the benefit of the patient and out of consideration for his autonomy; however, at the present time in medicine the duty of keeping absolute secrecy is being reconsidered.}, }
@article {pmid11187036, year = {2000}, author = {Stokstad, E}, title = {Paleontology. Tiny, feathered dino is most birdlike yet.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {290}, number = {5498}, pages = {1871-1872}, doi = {10.1126/science.290.5498.1871a}, pmid = {11187036}, issn = {0036-8075}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; *Birds/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; China ; Feathers/anatomy &amp; histology ; Foot/anatomy &amp; histology ; *Fossils ; Locomotion ; *Reptiles/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Tail/anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {Chinese paleontologists studying the fossil known as Microraptor describe it as both the smallest and the most birdlike dinosaur yet discovered. In this week's issue of Nature, they say the crow-sized, feathered creature--whose fossilized tail once formed part of a now-discredited "missing link" between birds and dinosaurs known as Archaeoraptor--belongs to the dromaeosaurs, dinosaurs that many paleontologists consider the closest dinosaurian relatives of birds.}, }
@article {pmid11169904, year = {2001}, author = {Jantz, RL and Owsley, DW}, title = {Variation among early North American crania.}, journal = {American journal of physical anthropology}, volume = {114}, number = {2}, pages = {146-155}, doi = {10.1002/1096-8644(200102)114:2&lt;146::AID-AJPA1014&gt;3.0.CO;2-E}, pmid = {11169904}, issn = {0002-9483}, mesh = {Adult ; Anthropology, Physical/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Anthropometry ; Female ; Fossils ; Humans ; *Indians, North American ; Male ; North America ; Reference Values ; Skull/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {The limited morphometric work on early American crania to date has treated them as a single, temporally defined group. This paper addresses the question of whether there is significant variability among ancient American crania. A sample of 11 crania (Spirit Cave, Wizards Beach, Browns Valley, Pelican Rapids, Prospect, Wet Gravel male, Wet Gravel female, Medicine Crow, Turin, Lime Creek, and Swanson Lake) dating from the early to mid Holocene was available. Some have recent accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) dates, while others are dated geologically or archaeologically. All are in excess of 4500 BP, and most are 7000 BP or older. Measurements follow the definitions of Howells [(1973) Cranial variation in man, Cambridge: Harvard University). Some crania are incomplete, but 22 measurements were common to all fossils. Cranial variation was examined by calculating the Mahalanobis distance between each pair of fossils, using a pooled within sample covariance matrix estimated from the data of Howells. The distance relationships among crania suggest the presence of at least three distinct groups: 1) a middle Archaic Plains group (Turin and Medicine Crow), 2) a Paleo/Early Archaic Great Lakes/Plains group (Browns Valley, Pelican Rapids, Lime Creek), and 3) a spatially and temporally heterogeneous group that includes the Great Basin/Pacific Coast (Spirit Cave, Wizards Beach, Prospect) and Nebraska (Wet Gravel specimens and Swanson Lake). These crania were also compared to Howells' worldwide recent sample, which was expanded by including six additional American Indian samples. None of the fossils, except for the Wet Gravel male, shows any particular affinity to recent Native Americans; their greatest similarities are with Europe, Polynesia, or East Asia. Several crania would be atypical in any recent population for which we have data. Browns Valley, Pelican Rapids, and Lime Creek are the most distinctive. They provide evidence for the presence of an early population that bears no similarity to the morphometric pattern of recent American Indians or even to crania of comparable date in other regions of the continent. The heterogeneity among early American crania makes it inadvisable to pool them for purposes of morphometric analysis. Whether this heterogeneity results from different early migrations or one highly differentiated population cannot be established from our data. Our results are inconsistent with hypotheses of an ancestor-descendent relationship between early and late Holocene American populations. They suggest that the pattern of cranial variation is of recent origin, at least in the Plains region.}, }
@article {pmid11169900, year = {2001}, author = {Madrigal, L and Ware, B and Miller, R and Saenz, G and Chavez, M and Dykes, D}, title = {Ethnicity, gene flow, and population subdivision in Limón, Costa Rica.}, journal = {American journal of physical anthropology}, volume = {114}, number = {2}, pages = {99-108}, doi = {10.1002/1096-8644(200102)114:2&lt;99::AID-AJPA1010&gt;3.0.CO;2-V}, pmid = {11169900}, issn = {0002-9483}, mesh = {Adult ; Costa Rica ; Emigration and Immigration ; Ethnicity/*genetics ; Female ; *Gene Frequency ; Hispanic or Latino/*genetics ; Humans ; Male ; Marriage ; Pedigree ; }, abstract = {In this paper we examine the effects of ethnicity on the gene flow between two groups living in Limón, Costa Rica. Our main interest is to determine if ethnicity has acted as a barrier to the exchange of genes, and if the groups have remained distinct genetically. We report the admixture estimates, F(st) values, and inbreeding coefficients of the two samples. The data consist of blood samples and surnames obtained from 375 individuals. The subjects' two surnames were analyzed to determine the ethnicity of their parents (individuals carry their father's and mother's first surnames). We used the formula of Crow and Mange ([1965] Eugen Q 12:199-203) to compute F(t), F(n), and F(r) with the surnames. Admixture estimates were computed for both groups using the computer program ADMIX.PAS kindly provided by Jeffrey Long. The estimates for the Hispanic-Limonense group are M1 = 0.5866 European, M2 = 0.3383 Amerindian, and M3 = 0.0751 African ancestry. For the Afro-Limonense group, the admixture estimates indicate M1 = 0.1047 European, M2 = 0.1357 Amerindian, and M3 = 0.7595 African ancestry. The F(st) values are F(st) = 0.00558 for the Hispanic group and F(st) = 0.05137 for the Afro-Limonense group. These F(st) values indicate that the Afro-Limonense group has experienced more genetic drift than has the other group, possibly as a result of its long history of isolation in Costa Rica. Indeed, when plotted along a scaled eigenvector R matrix of Caribbean gene frequencies, the two Limonense groups did not cluster with each other. Thus we conclude that the two ethnic groups have remained distinct breeding populations.}, }
@article {pmid11166080, year = {2001}, author = {Lipp, HP and Pleskacheva, MG and Gossweiler, H and Ricceri, L and Smirnova, AA and Garin, NN and Perepiolkina, OP and Voronkov, DN and Kuptsov, PA and Dell'Omo, G}, title = {A large outdoor radial maze for comparative studies in birds and mammals.}, journal = {Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews}, volume = {25}, number = {1}, pages = {83-99}, doi = {10.1016/s0149-7634(00)00050-6}, pmid = {11166080}, issn = {0149-7634}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Mammals/*physiology ; Maze Learning/*physiology ; Psychology, Comparative/*instrumentation ; Rats ; }, abstract = {For a comparative neurobiological analysis of spatial learning and memory, a large outdoor eight-arm radial maze was constructed which permits behavioral assessment of many avian and mammalian species both from the laboratory or the wild, using the same metric space and session schedules. It consists of a central part of 250cm diameter, and has arms of 650cm length, 170cm height and 80cm width. In order to determine appropriate training schedules for comparison of different species, we tested four mammalian and two avian species during 9-15 sessions: 18 albino rats (Rattus norvegicus), nine outdoors and nine in a conventional small indoor maze; six guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus); six rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus); five hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus); seven hooded crows (Corvus corone cornix) and six chickens (Gallus domesticus). Rats learned fast in both mazes yet significantly better in the large one. Good-to-excellent learning was also observed in juvenile rabbits and wild-caught crows, although the latter tended to avoid arms in the vicinity of the observer. Hedgehogs and chickens did not show significant learning as a group, but some individuals appeared to learn the task. Guinea pigs remained continuously passive and could not be trained. Thus, in spite of species-specific demands for reward, adaptation and pre-training, this type of radial maze permits to directly compare a wide variety of species. Such comparability is essential for an analysis of underlying neurobiological mechanisms.}, }
@article {pmid11163372, year = {2001}, author = {Giovagnoli, AR}, title = {Relation of sorting impairment to hippocampal damage in temporal lobe epilepsy.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {39}, number = {2}, pages = {140-150}, doi = {10.1016/s0028-3932(00)00104-4}, pmid = {11163372}, issn = {0028-3932}, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; *Association Learning ; Case-Control Studies ; Dominance, Cerebral ; Epilepsy, Frontal Lobe/pathology/*psychology ; Epilepsy, Temporal Lobe/pathology/*psychology ; Female ; Hippocampus/*pathology ; Humans ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {One hundred and twelve patients with left (n=65) or right (n=47) temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), associated with mesial or lateral temporal lobe lesion, were compared to 53 patients with left (n=30) or right (n=23) frontal lobe epilepsy (FLE), in order to explore the contributions of hippocampal lesions and of memory deficits to sorting impairment. Thirty-six healthy subjects of similar age and education were controls. The Modified Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (MWCST) was used to explore sorting ability. The two-syllable word span and consistent long-term retrieval from the selective reminding procedure for word-list learning were used to evaluate memory. Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices and Attentive Matrices served to control for abstract reasoning and attention. Left FLE patients and TLE patients with left hippocampal sclerosis were significantly impaired on MWCST, short-term memory, and word learning. TLE patients with other left hippocampal lesions were also impaired on MWCST, although not significantly so. Analysis of individual scores showed that 42% of TLE patients with left hippocampal sclerosis, 14% of TLE patients with other hippocampal lesions, 63% of left FLE patients, and 30% of right FLE patients were impaired on the MWCST. In patients with left hippocampal sclerosis, MWCST score was associated with the learning score provided by the selective reminding procedure and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices score, whereas in FLE patients, MWCST score was associated with Attentive Matrices score. These results suggest that only some TLE patients, i.e. those with hippocampal damage, may be expected to be impaired on card sorting. The impaired sorting ability of these TLE patients may be due to involvement of the hippocampal function in forming associations or in registering new information.}, }
@article {pmid11149538, year = {2000}, author = {Gould-Beierle, K}, title = {A comparison of four corvid species in a working and reference memory task using a radial maze.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {114}, number = {4}, pages = {347-356}, doi = {10.1037/0735-7036.114.4.347}, pmid = {11149538}, issn = {0735-7036}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Maze Learning ; *Mental Recall ; Orientation ; Phylogeny ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Birds were tested in an open-room radial maze with learned spatial locations that varied from trial to trial (working memory) and locations that remained spatially stable (reference memory). Three of the species, the Clark's nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana), pinyon jay (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus), and Western scrub jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) store food to varying degrees. The other species, the Eurasian jackdaw (Corvus monedula) does not. Pinyon jays and scrub jays performed better than the nutcrackers and jackdaws in both working and reference memory components of the maze. The pinyon jay and jackdaw performed as would be expected on the basis of their natural history and previous research, but the scrub jay and nutcracker did not. Results are consistent with phylogenetic relationships among the 4 species, but could also be explained by differences in response strategies or interference in processing both types of memory components of the maze.}, }
@article {pmid11143254, year = {2000}, author = {Borden, JA and Mahajan, A and Tsai, JS}, title = {A quality factor to compare the dosimetry of gamma knife radiosurgery and intensity-modulated radiation therapy quantitatively as a function of target volume and shape. Technical note.}, journal = {Journal of neurosurgery}, volume = {93 Suppl 3}, number = {}, pages = {228-232}, doi = {10.3171/jns.2000.93.supplement}, pmid = {11143254}, issn = {0022-3085}, mesh = {Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations/*surgery ; Phantoms, Imaging ; *Quality Assurance, Health Care ; Radiosurgery/*methods ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {The authors have developed a quality factor (QF) to compare gamma knife radiosurgery, linear accelerator radiosurgery, and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) dosimetry. This QF relates the percentage of target covered (PTC) by the prescription radiation isodose, target volume (V(T)), and enclosed tissue volume, which receives greater than a particular dose (V(X)): QF(X) = PTCxV(T)/V(X). The authors investigated target shape independent of volume in predicting radiosurgical complication rates. Plastic targets of a defined volume (0.2, 0.5, 1.5, and 10 cm3) and four increasingly complex shapes (spherical, ellipsoid, simulated arteriovenous malformation [AVM], and horseshoe) were created. Dosimetry was studied on the Leksell GammaPlan, Adac/Pinnacle, and Nomos Corvus workstations. The dosimetry of a new 4 mm x 10-mm IMRT collimator array (the Nomos Beak) not yet validated for use in our clinical practice was studied. Particularly for larger targets, the gamma knife and IMRT Beak plans show similar conformality (QF assuming 15-Gy volume [QF15]). Particularly for small and round targets the gamma knife plan quality is significantly higher (QF assuming 12-Gy volume [QF12]). As V(T) and complexity increase, the IMRT Beak QF12 approaches that of the gamma knife. The QF12 of gamma knife dosimetry has an inverse correlation with target shape complexity independent of V(T). At a prescription dose of 15 Gy to the target margin, the QF15 is a conformality index. The 12-Gy volume (volume enclosed by 12-Gy surface/volume receiving at least 12 Gy) estimates the radiosurgical normal tissue complication rate for AVMs. When the target is well covered, the QF12 is inversely proportional to the complication risk and is a measure of the plan quality.}, }
@article {pmid11124886, year = {2000}, author = {Li, SH and Brown, JL}, title = {High frequency of extrapair fertilization in a plural breeding bird, the Mexican jay, revealed by DNA microsatellites.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {60}, number = {6}, pages = {867-877}, doi = {10.1006/anbe.2000.1554}, pmid = {11124886}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {We used tetra-nucleotide microsatellite DNA typing to estimate the frequency of extrapair fertilization (EPF) in a plural breeding species, the Mexican jay, Aphelocoma ultramarina, in Arizona. We found EPF in 32 of 51 complete broods (63%) and 55 of 139 nestlings (40%) for which the putative father had been identified (one of the highest rates of EPF known for birds). At least 96.1% of EPF fathers came from within the group. This is by far the highest known within-group EPF rate among socially monogamous, communally rearing species. Most (70%) males of breeding age (3+ years) had no genetic paternity in a given year. Social fathers (i.e. those with nests and mated females) rarely obtained EPFs; of 25 social fathers, 23 had young in only one nest and only two had young in two nests by virtue of EPF. Of the 27 males known to be EPF fathers without a nest of their own, none had young in more than one nest. Only 7% of EPF fathers had their own broods reaching banding age (day 14), compared with 29.7% of social fathers. The proportion of EPF young was significantly larger in smaller broods. Breeding females in all age classes were equally likely to have EPF young. Copyright 2000 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid11118423, year = {2000}, author = {Bell, CD and Patterson, RW}, title = {Molecular phylogeny and biogeography of Linanthus (Polemoniaceae).}, journal = {American journal of botany}, volume = {87}, number = {12}, pages = {1857-1870}, pmid = {11118423}, issn = {0002-9122}, abstract = {To better understand the evolutionary history of Linanthus (Polemoniaceae) and its relatives, molecular phylogenies based on DNA sequence data from the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of nrDNA and the chloroplast gene matK were estimated using several methods. Our data suggest two separate and well-supported lineages of Linanthus in close association with two other genera-Leptodactylon and Phlox. These results agree with previous molecular systematic work on the Polemoniaceae, but do not support the traditional classification of the genus as a natural group, nor do they support the sectional classification within the genus. With a distribution centered primarily in western North America and a high degree of endemism in the California Floristic Province, it has been suggested by Raven and Axelrod that the origin and diversification of Linanthus and its relatives were tied to the development of a summer-dry climate in western North America, which began around 13-15 million years ago (mya). Increased drying during the Pliocene (1.2-5 mya) has also been hypothesized by Axelrod to have led to an increase in plant speciation in California and adjacent areas. Divergence times within the Linanthus lineages were estimated from the ITS and matK gene trees. A log-likelihood ratio test could not reject clock-like evolution for the matK data; however, the clock was strongly rejected for the ITS data set. Although ITS molecular evolution was not clock-like, the estimated times of divergence were similar to those of the matK data set. Within both lineages of Linanthus there seems to have been considerable diversification that has occurred since the Pliocene.}, }
@article {pmid11107830, year = {2000}, author = {}, title = {[Botulinum toxin A in esthetic medicine. Poison for facial lines and crows feet].}, journal = {MMW Fortschritte der Medizin}, volume = {142}, number = {45}, pages = {64}, pmid = {11107830}, issn = {1438-3276}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; *Surgery, Plastic ; }, }
@article {pmid11103763, year = {2000}, author = {Pinzur, MS and Shields, N and Trepman, E and Dawson, P and Evans, A}, title = {Current practice patterns in the treatment of Charcot foot.}, journal = {Foot &amp; ankle international}, volume = {21}, number = {11}, pages = {916-920}, doi = {10.1177/107110070002101105}, pmid = {11103763}, issn = {1071-1007}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Arthropathy, Neurogenic/diagnosis/etiology/*therapy ; Benchmarking ; Data Collection ; Diabetes Complications ; Foot Deformities, Acquired/diagnosis/etiology/*therapy ; Humans ; Immobilization ; Middle Aged ; Orthopedics/*standards/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Orthotic Devices ; *Tarsal Joints ; }, abstract = {Treatment of Charcot foot osteoarthropathy has emerged as a major component of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Diabetes 2000 Initiative. A two-part survey described treatment patterns and current footwear use of patients with Charcot osteoarthropathy of the foot and ankle. In the first part, 94 consecutive patients with a history of Charcot foot and ankle presenting for care were questioned on their foot-specific treatment and current footwear use. A history of diabetic foot ulcer was given by 39 (41%) patients, and an infection had been present in a foot of 20 (21%) patients. The initial treatment of the Charcot foot and ankle had been a total contact cast in 46 (49%) patients, and a pre-fabricated walking boot in 19 (20%). Charcot related surgery had consisted of 76 procedures in 46 (49%) patients. Sixty-three (67%) patients were currently using accommodative footwear (depth-inlay shoes in 46 [49%], custom shoes in 10 [11%], and CROW in 7 [7%] patients), and 72 (77%) were currently using custom accommodative foot orthoses. The second part of this study consisted of a questionnaire completed by 37 orthopaedic surgeons (members of AOFAS) interested in forming a Charcot Study Group. They treated an average of 11.8 patients having Charcot foot or ankle per month. Thirty (81%) used the Semmes-Weinstein 5.07 monofilament as a screening tool for peripheral neuropathy. For treatment of Eichenholtz Stage I, 29 (78%) used a total contact cast and 15 (41%) allowed weightbearing; for Stage II, 30 (81%) physicians used a total contact cast and 18 (49%) allowed weightbearing. Although the literature contains uniform recommendations for immobilization and non-weightbearing as treatment for the initial phases of Charcot arthropathy, the results of this benchmarking study reveal that currenl treatment is varied.}, }
@article {pmid11099887, year = {2000}, author = {Kumari, V and Sharma, T}, title = {The 10th Biennial Winter Workshop on Schizophrenia. A report.}, journal = {Schizophrenia research}, volume = {46}, number = {1}, pages = {65-72}, doi = {10.1016/s0920-9964(00)00073-6}, pmid = {11099887}, issn = {0920-9964}, mesh = {*Education ; England ; Humans ; *Schizophrenia/diagnosis/epidemiology/etiology ; }, abstract = {The 10th Biennial Winter Workshop on Schizophrenia (5-11 February 2000), organized by Drs Tim Crow and Steven Hirsch, attracted a wide range of contributions, not only from European countries, but from all across the world, encompassing clinical, neuropsychological, cognitive, experimental, pharmacological and neuroimaging approaches to enhance the understanding of possible causes, features and the treatments of this illness. The Kongresszentrum, Davos, Switzerland was once again the venue. We present a flavour of the variety of presentations, the news and the views emerging from these presentations, and discuss their implications for further advancement in the field of schizophrenia research.}, }
@article {pmid11099189, year = {2000}, author = {Kung, JH and Chen, GT and Kuchnir, FK}, title = {A monitor unit verification calculation in intensity modulated radiotherapy as a dosimetry quality assurance.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {27}, number = {10}, pages = {2226-2230}, doi = {10.1118/1.1286553}, pmid = {11099189}, issn = {0094-2405}, mesh = {Humans ; Phantoms, Imaging ; Quality Assurance, Health Care ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*standards ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*standards ; Software ; }, abstract = {In standard teletherapy, a treatment plan is generated with the aid of a treatment planning system, but it is common to perform an independent monitor unit verification calculation (MUVC). In exact analogy, we propose and demonstrate that a simple and accurate MUVC in intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) is possible. We introduce the concept of modified Clarkson integration (MCI). In MCI, we exploit the rotational symmetry of scattering to simplify the dose calculation. For dose calculation along a central axis (CAX), we first replace the incident IMRT fluence by an azimuthally averaged fluence. Second, the Clarkson integration is carried over annular sectors instead of over pie sectors. We wrote a computer code, implementing the MCI technique, in order to perform a MUVC for IMRT purposes. We applied the code to IMRT plans generated by CORVUS. The input to the code consists of CORVUS plan data (e.g., DMLC files, jaw settings, MU for each IMRT field, depth to isocenter for each IMRT field), and the output is dose contribution by individual IMRTs field to the isocenter. The code uses measured beam data for Sc, Sp, TPR, (D/MU)ref and includes effects from multileaf collimator transmission, and radiation field offset. On a 266 MHz desktop computer, the code takes less than 15 to calculate a dose. The doses calculated with the MCI algorithm agreed within +/-3% with the doses calculated by CORVUS, which uses a 1 cm x 1 cm pencil beam in dose calculation. In the present version of MCI, skin contour variations and inhomogeneities were neglected.}, }
@article {pmid11084587, year = {2001}, author = {d'Anjou, MC and Daugulis, AJ}, title = {A rational approach to improving productivity in recombinant Pichia pastoris fermentation.}, journal = {Biotechnology and bioengineering}, volume = {72}, number = {1}, pages = {1-11}, doi = {10.1002/1097-0290(20010105)72:1&lt;1::aid-bit1&gt;3.0.co;2-t}, pmid = {11084587}, issn = {0006-3592}, mesh = {Biotechnology/methods ; Escherichia coli/genetics ; Fermentation ; Genetic Engineering/methods ; Genetic Vectors ; Glycerol ; Methanol ; Pichia/*genetics/*growth &amp; development ; Recombination, Genetic ; Transformation, Genetic ; }, abstract = {A Mut(S) Pichia pastoris strain that had been genetically modified to produce and secrete sea raven antifreeze protein was used as a model system to demonstrate the implementation of a rational, model-based approach to improve process productivity. A set of glycerol/methanol mixed-feed continuous stirred-tank reactor (CSTR) experiments was performed at the 5-L scale to characterize the relationship between the specific growth rate and the cell yield on methanol, the specific methanol consumption rate, the specific recombinant protein formation rate, and the productivity based on secreted protein levels. The range of dilution rates studied was 0. 01 to 0.10 h(-1), and the residual methanol concentration was kept constant at approximately 2 g/L (below the inhibitory level). With the assumption that the cell yield on glycerol was constant, the cell yield on methanol increased from approximately 0.5 to 1.5 over the range studied. A maximum specific methanol consumption rate of 20 mg/g. h was achieved at a dilution rate of 0.06 h(-1). The specific product formation rate and the volumetric productivity based on product continued to increase over the range of dilution rates studied, and the maximum values were 0.06 mg/g. h and 1.7 mg/L. h, respectively. Therefore, no evidence of repression by glycerol was observed over this range, and operating at the highest dilution rate studied maximized productivity. Fed-batch mass balance equations, based on Monod-type kinetics and parameters derived from data collected during the CSTR work, were then used to predict cell growth and recombinant protein production and to develop an exponential feeding strategy using two carbon sources. Two exponential fed-batch fermentations were conducted according to the predicted feeding strategy at specific growth rates of 0.03 h(-1) and 0.07 h(-1) to verify the accuracy of the model. Cell growth was accurately predicted in both fed-batch runs; however, the model underestimated recombinant product concentration. The overall volumetric productivity of both runs was approximately 2.2 mg/L. h, representing a tenfold increase in the productivity compared with a heuristic feeding strategy.}, }
@article {pmid11082237, year = {2000}, author = {Hall, ML}, title = {The function of duetting in magpie-larks: conflict, cooperation, or commitment?.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {60}, number = {5}, pages = {667-677}, doi = {10.1006/anbe.2000.1517}, pmid = {11082237}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {Avian duetting is a poorly understood phenomenon despite many hypotheses as to its function. Contrary to the recent view that duetting functions for mate guarding and is a result of conflict between the sexes, Australian magpie-larks, Grallina cyanoleuca, do not use duetting as a paternity guard. I used a playback experiment to investigate the role of antiphonal duetting in territorial defence and pair bond maintenance, two traditional hypotheses about the function of duetting. The experiment showed that, like many nonduetting species, magpie-larks recognize neighbours on the basis of song. It also provided evidence of functional differences between duetting and solo singing which indicate that temporal coordination of song between partners is used to maintain the territory and pair bond. Duets were more threatening territorial signals than solo songs: males initiated more vocalizations in response to playback of duets than playback of solos. Simulated intrusion also caused males and females to approach the speaker together and coordinate more of their vocalizations to form duets. Females did not engage in sex-specific territorial defence, responding equally strongly to playback of male and female song, and maintaining both territory and pair bond by attempting to exclude intruders of either sex. Males initiated more vocalizations in response to playback of male than female song, and their likelihood of duetting appeared to be related more to threats to the pair bond, in particular desertion by their partner. Copyright 2000 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid11081956, year = {2000}, author = {Torralva, T and Dorrego, F and Sabe, L and Chemerinski, E and Starkstein, SE}, title = {Impairments of social cognition and decision making in Alzheimer's disease.}, journal = {International psychogeriatrics}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, pages = {359-368}, doi = {10.1017/s1041610200006463}, pmid = {11081956}, issn = {1041-6102}, mesh = {Aged ; Alzheimer Disease/*complications ; Cognition Disorders/*complications/*diagnosis ; *Decision Making ; Female ; Humans ; Judgment ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Severity of Illness Index ; *Social Perception ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate the nature of deficits in social cognition and real-life decision making in a group of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD).<br><br>DESIGN: A comprehensive neuropsychological and psychiatric assessment, including the Moral Judgment Interview and the Bechara's Card Test, was carried out in 25 patients with AD and 20 age-comparable normal controls.<br><br>SETTING: Outpatient clinic.<br><br>RESULTS: AD patients had significantly lower scores in the Moral Judgment Interview and obtained significantly less earnings in the card test when compared to the normal control group. The Moral Judgment Interview score correlated significantly with Raven's Progressive Matrices and Block Design, whereas the card test correlated significantly with both the Benton Visual Retention Test and the Buschke Selective Reminding Test. No significant correlations were observed between the experimental tasks and the psychiatric variables.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: AD patients demonstrated significant deficits on tasks assessing social cognition and real-life decision making. These impairments correlated with deficits on specific neuropsychological tasks, but not with behavioral problems frequently found in AD patients.}, }
@article {pmid11055049, year = {2000}, author = {Velásquez, M and Arcos-Burgos, M and Toro, ME and Castaño, A and Madrigal, L and Moreno, S and Jaramillo, N and Lopera, F}, title = {[Factorial and discriminant analyses of neuropsychological variables in familial and sporadic late onset Alzheimer disease].}, journal = {Revista de neurologia}, volume = {31}, number = {6}, pages = {501-506}, pmid = {11055049}, issn = {0210-0010}, mesh = {Age of Onset ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Alzheimer Disease/*epidemiology/*genetics/pathology ; Brain/pathology ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Discriminant Analysis ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Prevalence of late onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD) both familial and sporadic is increasing with the raising proportion of third-age population. There are evidences either supporting or rejecting the existence of differences in the behavior of neuropsychological variables between familial and sporadic cases of LOAD.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To identify neuropsychological variables discriminating between familial and sporadic cases of LOAD, in order to detect clinical manifestations that may provide information on the pathological process of the neurodegenerative process.<br><br>PATIENTS AND METHODS: Using sequential sampling, we selected individuals affected by LOAD according to the criteria of the DSM-IV and NINCS-ADRDA. The following neuropsychological protocol was used: CERAD, Wisconsin, Phonological Fluency, Rey's Figure, Raven, A Cancellation Test, WAIS (Arithmetic); also used were: Global Deterioration Scale, Functional Assessment Staging of Reisberg (FAST), Barthel and Yesavage. Parametrical and non-parametrical univariate, factorial (principal components) and discriminant analyses were performed. In total, 52 patients were analyzed (average age: 74.8 years; mean age at onset of the disease: 69 years; time of disease's evolution: 5.7 years; average of educational level: 6.4 years).<br><br>RESULTS: No significant statistical differences were found in clinical or neuropsychological variables between familial and sporadic cases of LOAD. Additionally, neither variables nor models were detected discriminating significantly between them.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Familial and sporadic cases of LOAD present the same clinical and neuropsychological phenotype which makes very probable that sporadic cases are low penetrance familial ones.}, }
@article {pmid11048793, year = {2000}, author = {Vernay, M}, title = {Trends in inbreeding, isonymy, and repeated pairs of surnames in the Valserine Valley, French Jura, 1763-1972.}, journal = {Human biology}, volume = {72}, number = {4}, pages = {675-692}, pmid = {11048793}, issn = {0018-7143}, mesh = {*Consanguinity ; Female ; France ; *Gene Frequency/genetics ; History, 18th Century ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Male ; Marriage/*history ; Models, Genetic ; *Names ; Pedigree ; Population Density ; Registries ; }, abstract = {The estimates of inbreeding derived from pedigrees and frequency of isonymous marriages (i.e., between persons of the same surname) are compared using genealogical and isonymic information from 4,899 marriages recorded between 1763 and 1972 in 4 rural villages of the French Jura region (a mountainous area near the Swiss border). Before the second half of the 20th century, the two kinds of estimates show a different temporal evolution. The mean inbreeding coefficient based on pedigrees increases between 1763 and 1852 and reaches a maximum between 1853 and 1882 (alpha = 0.0028), with a very low percentage (< 1%) the result of remote kinship. The mean inbreeding coefficient based on isonymy is always higher, with a maximum observed between 1793 and 1822 (F = 0.0200), and it remains roughly the same between 1763 and 1882 (F = 0.0150), with a high percentage resulting from a random component (Fr), a consequence of the small population size and genetic drift. After 1883, the 2 mean coefficients decrease. This discordance is largely explained by the poor quality, for the first periods, of the genealogical data base, which ignores the more remote links of kinship, justifying the use of the model of Crow and Mange (1965) to explore consanguinity during the more ancient periods. The temporal evolution of the repeated pairs of surnames index (RP) confirms the recent evolution of the marital structure of the valley. Moreover, it appears that isonymous marriages and repeated and unique pairs of surnames constitute 3 distinct matrimonial groups characterized by both a different mean coefficient of inbreeding (alpha) and a different rate of endogamy.}, }
@article {pmid11043802, year = {2000}, author = {Ikawa, M and Nakanishi, M and Furukawa, T and Nakaaki, S and Hori, S and Yoshida, S}, title = {Relationship between EEG dimensional complexity and neuropsychological findings in Alzheimer's disease.}, journal = {Psychiatry and clinical neurosciences}, volume = {54}, number = {5}, pages = {537-541}, doi = {10.1046/j.1440-1819.2000.00749.x}, pmid = {11043802}, issn = {1323-1316}, mesh = {Aged ; Alzheimer Disease/*diagnosis/*physiopathology ; Brain/*physiopathology ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis ; *Electroencephalography ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {The aim of the present study was to examine the region-specific correlations between electroencephalography (EEG) dimensional complexity (DC), a measure of non-linear dynamics, and neuropsychological performance in 25 right-handed patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Electroencephalography recording sites were according to the international 10-20 system. Neuropsychological tests included Wechelor Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (WAIS-R) (Full-scale Intelligence Quotient (FIQ), Verbal Intelligence Quotient (VIQ), Performance Intelligent Quotient (PIQ)); Mini-Mental State Examination; Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM); Rey Auditory-Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT); seven word pairs-revised Miyake Paired-Associate Word Learning Test; Benton Visual Retention Test; and Rey Complex Figure Test. A partial correlational analysis was carried out, controlling for age and sex (P< 0.005). The FIQ, VIQ and RCPM scores were found to be significantly correlated with DC at the F3, C3 and T3 electrodes. Significant correlations were also found between RAVLT scores and DC at the C3, P3 and T5 electrodes. The study on AD indicated region-specific correlations between DC and neuropsychological performance: one between the DC value in the left frontal, central and mid-temporal areas and intellectual function; and another between the DC value in the left central, parietal and post-temporal areas and verbal memory. Dimensional complexity would therefore seem to be a useful indicator for the assessment of neuropsychological deficits in AD.}, }
@article {pmid11042813, year = {2000}, author = {Kriukov, AP and Odati, S}, title = {[On the phylogenetic relationship of Corvinae birds (Aves, Corvidae) from data of partial sequencing of cytochrome b gene mitochondrial DNA].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {36}, number = {9}, pages = {1262-1268}, pmid = {11042813}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Cytochrome b Group/*genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/*genetics ; Phylogeny ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Songbirds/classification/*genetics ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {To establish phylogenetic relationships within the corvine birds at the interspecific and intergeneric levels, the sequence of the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome b gene was analyzed. The NJ, UPGMA, and MP trees showed similar clustering. Relationships between the jungle crow, on the one hand, and the rook and Australian raven, on the other hand, were closer than between the jungle crow and the hooded and carrion crows. Mitochondrial genome of Australian raven displayed the closest similarity to the ancestral genome of the genus Corvus. Populations inhabiting the eastern part of the carrion crow C. corone orientations area were statistically significantly subdivided into three lineages. These data also confirmed the hypothesis on the location of the carrion crow ancestral lineage in the southeastern part of the area. In general, the transition and transversion substitution levels, their relationships, and distribution over codon positions were similar to that already reported for birds. Synonymous transitions in the third codon position were the prevailing substitution type. Using standard calibration scales, the time of divergence between species and genera within the corvine family was estimated to be 3.1-4 and 3.8-8.8 Myr, respectively. The divergence time between the examined corvine birds and birds of paradise constituted from 8 to 10 Myr.}, }
@article {pmid11037788, year = {2000}, author = {Turell, MJ and O'Guinn, M and Oliver, J}, title = {Potential for New York mosquitoes to transmit West Nile virus.}, journal = {The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene}, volume = {62}, number = {3}, pages = {413-414}, doi = {10.4269/ajtmh.2000.62.413}, pmid = {11037788}, issn = {0002-9637}, mesh = {Animals ; Chickens/virology ; Culicidae/*virology ; Disease Outbreaks ; Insect Bites and Stings ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; New York City/epidemiology ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*transmission ; West Nile virus/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {We evaluated the potential for several North American mosquito species to transmit the newly introduced West Nile (WN) virus. Mosquitoes collected in the New York City Metropolitan Area during the recent (1999) WN outbreak were allowed to feed on chickens infected with WN virus isolated from a crow that had died during this outbreak. These mosquitoes were tested approximately 2 weeks later to determine infection, dissemination, and transmission rates. Culex pipiens mosquitoes were highly susceptible to infection, and nearly all individuals with a disseminated infection did transmit WN virus by bite. In contrast, Aedes vexans were only moderately susceptible to oral infection; however, those individuals inoculated with WN virus did transmit virus by bite.}, }
@article {pmid11037192, year = {2000}, author = {Koike, H and Sobue, G}, title = {Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {Neuropathology : official journal of the Japanese Society of Neuropathology}, volume = {20 Suppl}, number = {}, pages = {S69-72}, doi = {10.1046/j.1440-1789.2000.00309.x}, pmid = {11037192}, issn = {0919-6544}, mesh = {Humans ; Nerve Degeneration/immunology/pathology/physiopathology ; POEMS Syndrome/*immunology/*pathology/therapy ; Peripheral Nerves/*immunology/*pathology/physiopathology ; }, abstract = {Crow-Fukase syndrome is a unique multisystem disorder that is also known as POEMS syndrome (an acronym for polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, the presence of M-protein and skin change). This syndrome is strongly associated with plasma cell dyscrasia. Circulating light chains of M component, almost invariably IgG lambda or IgA lambda, are found in 75% of patients. Neuropathologically, segmental demyelination, particularly in the proximal segment of the peripheral nerve trunk, is the primary process. Axonal degeneration and marked endoneurial edema are also characteristic. Focal excessive myelin outfolds with globular features corresponding to periodicity and paranodal enlargement of myelin are also highly characteristic of this syndrome. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was found to be specifically and highly elevated in the serum of patients with this syndrome, suggesting a pathogenic role. M-protein, interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha are also considered to be involved in the pathogenesis. Treatment consists of radiation and surgical resection of the myeloma, chemotherapy, and a high dose of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg).}, }
@article {pmid11033783, year = {2000}, author = {Kriukov, AP and Suzuki, H}, title = {[Phylogeographic carrion, hooded and jungle crows (Aves, Corvidae) from data on partial sequencing of the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome B gene].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {36}, number = {8}, pages = {1111-1118}, pmid = {11033783}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; Cytochrome b Group/*genetics ; DNA Primers ; DNA, Mitochondrial/*genetics ; Geography ; Phylogeny ; Songbirds/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Distribution of mitochondrial DNA cytochrome b gene haplotypes in two crow species was examined by means of sequencing of the 336-bp gene fragment. The topology of the NJ and UPGMA trees showed that the carrion crow range was split into two parts due to the presence of significantly diverged ancestral lineage localized in the southeastern part of the range. The carrion crow populations, inhabiting a territory ranging from France to northern Sakhalin, along with interspersed hooded crow populations and hybrid Siberian populations, shared a common haplotype. The border between two carrion crow lineages revealed is located in central Sakhalin. The subdivision of two weakly differentiated lineages within the jungle crown range, also observed within this territory, coincided with the subspecies division of this species. The estimated genetic distances indicate the isolation of the subgenus Coloeus. These data also suggest the convergent similarity between the chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax and the Corvus genus, as well as the conspecificity of Corvus corone corone and C. c. cornix.}, }
@article {pmid11031971, year = {2000}, author = {Arai, K}, title = {[Paraneoplastic Crow-Fukase syndrome].}, journal = {Ryoikibetsu shokogun shirizu}, volume = {}, number = {29 Pt 4}, pages = {367-369}, pmid = {11031971}, mesh = {Diagnosis, Differential ; Endothelial Growth Factors/physiology ; Humans ; Lymphokines/physiology ; *POEMS Syndrome/etiology ; *Paraneoplastic Syndromes/etiology ; Prognosis ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors ; }, }
@article {pmid11016790, year = {2000}, author = {Shaw, BK}, title = {Involvement of a midbrain vocal nucleus in the production of both the acoustic and postural components of crowing behavior in Japanese quail.}, journal = {Journal of comparative physiology. A, Sensory, neural, and behavioral physiology}, volume = {186}, number = {7-8}, pages = {747-757}, doi = {10.1007/s003590000128}, pmid = {11016790}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Coturnix/*physiology ; Electric Stimulation ; Electrodes ; Female ; Male ; Mesencephalon/*physiology ; Nerve Net/physiology ; Posture/*physiology ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Many bird species produce vocalizations which are accompanied by distinctive postural displays, but the neural mechanisms that allow such integrated production of vocal and postural motor patterns are not understood. In the crowing behavior of Japanese quail, a characteristic vocal pattern is accompanied by and coordinated with a postural display that consists of a sequence of rapid, patterned head movements. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the role of a midbrain vocal nucleus, the nucleus intercollicularis, in the production of the acoustic and postural components of crowing in quail. Brief electrical stimuli were applied to the nucleus intercollicularis during spontaneously emitted crows in quail with chronically implanted electrodes, to determine if perturbing neural activity in the nucleus intercollicularis resulted in a disruption of ongoing crowing behavior. The most common effect of such stimuli was a concurrent, premature termination of both the acoustic and head movement components of the crow. These results imply that the nucleus intercollicularis plays a role in the production of both the acoustic and postural components of crowing in quail.}, }
@article {pmid11012719, year = {2000}, author = {Baker, AM and Mather, PB and Hughes, JM}, title = {Population genetic structure of Australian magpies: evidence for regional differences in juvenile dispersal behaviour.}, journal = {Heredity}, volume = {85 (Pt 2)}, number = {}, pages = {167-176}, doi = {10.1046/j.1365-2540.2000.00733.x}, pmid = {11012719}, issn = {0018-067X}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; DNA, Mitochondrial ; Genetic Markers ; Genetics, Population ; Isoenzymes/genetics ; Songbirds/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Territorial group size in Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen) ranges from monogamous pairs to groups of more than 20 individuals. It has been hypothesized that large territorial groups result from the retention of juveniles after a breeding effort. If this is true, local populations consisting of large groups are likely to exhibit the most genetic structure, because over time similar genotypes will tend to be confined to limited areas if juveniles are predominantly philopatric. The objective of the present study was to test this hypothesis using allozyme and mitochondrial DNA data to provide indirect estimates of regional gene flow (derived from hierarchical population subdivision analyses). These data were used in combination with estimates of group size to infer patterns of dispersal among magpie populations across mainland Australia. Territorial groups were significantly larger in the south-west compared to three eastern regions. Although inferred levels of gene flow were substantial for all four regions, a striking pattern emerged from both sets of genetic data: more differentiation was evident among populations in the south-western region than in any eastern region. We conclude that levels of juvenile dispersal influence group size in G. tibicen, because in the south-western region where groups were largest, populations were most genetically differentiated. Our results suggest that contrasting population genetic structures may develop within a single species as a result of differences in social system.}, }
@article {pmid11011737, year = {2000}, author = {Xing, L and Li, JG}, title = {Computer verification of fluence map for intensity modulated radiation therapy.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {27}, number = {9}, pages = {2084-2092}, doi = {10.1118/1.1289374}, pmid = {11011737}, issn = {0094-2405}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Computer Simulation ; Humans ; Models, Theoretical ; Quality Control ; Radiometry/instrumentation/methods ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; Reproducibility of Results ; Software ; }, abstract = {In a treatment planning system for intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), the time sequence of multileaf collimator (MLC) settings are derived from an optimal fluence map as a postoptimization process using a software module called a "leaf sequencer." The dosimetric accuracy of the dynamic delivery depends on the functionality of the module and it is important to verify independently the correctness of the leaf sequences for each field of a patient treatment. This verification is unique to the IMRT treatment and has been done using radiographic film, electronic portal imaging device (EPID) or electronic imaging system (BIS). The measurement tests both the leaf sequencer and the dynamic multileaf collimator (MLC) delivery system, providing a reliable assurance of clinical IMRT treatment. However, this process is labor intensive and time consuming. In this paper, we propose to separate quality assurance (QA) of the leaf sequencer from the dynamic MLC delivery system. We describe a simple computer algorithm for the verification of the leaf sequences. The software reads in the leaf sequences and simulates the motion of the MLC leaves. The generated fluence map is then compared quantitatively with the reference map from the treatment planning system. A set of pre-defined QA indices is introduced to measure the "closeness" between the computed and the reference maps. The approach has been used to validate the CORVUS (NOMOS Co., Sewickley, PA) treatment plans. The results indicate that the proposed approach is robust and suitable to support the complex IMRT QA process.}, }
@article {pmid11008950, year = {2000}, author = {Ma, CM and Pawlicki, T and Jiang, SB and Li, JS and Deng, J and Mok, E and Kapur, A and Xing, L and Ma, L and Boyer, AL}, title = {Monte Carlo verification of IMRT dose distributions from a commercial treatment planning optimization system.}, journal = {Physics in medicine and biology}, volume = {45}, number = {9}, pages = {2483-2495}, doi = {10.1088/0031-9155/45/9/303}, pmid = {11008950}, issn = {0031-9155}, support = {CA78331/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Computer Simulation ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Monte Carlo Method ; Phantoms, Imaging ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/standards ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods/standards ; Reproducibility of Results ; Water ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this work was to use Monte Carlo simulations to verify the accuracy of the dose distributions from a commercial treatment planning optimization system (Corvus, Nomos Corp., Sewickley, PA) for intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). A Monte Carlo treatment planning system has been implemented clinically to improve and verify the accuracy of radiotherapy dose calculations. Further modifications to the system were made to compute the dose in a patient for multiple fixed-gantry IMRT fields. The dose distributions in the experimental phantoms and in the patients were calculated and used to verify the optimized treatment plans generated by the Corvus system. The Monte Carlo calculated IMRT dose distributions agreed with the measurements to within 2% of the maximum dose for all the beam energies and field sizes for both the homogeneous and heterogeneous phantoms. The dose distributions predicted by the Corvus system, which employs a finite-size pencil beam (FSPB) algorithm, agreed with the Monte Carlo simulations and measurements to within 4% in a cylindrical water phantom with various hypothetical target shapes. Discrepancies of more than 5% (relative to the prescribed target dose) in the target region and over 20% in the critical structures were found in some IMRT patient calculations. The FSPB algorithm as implemented in the Corvus system is adequate for homogeneous phantoms (such as prostate) but may result in significant under or over-estimation of the dose in some cases involving heterogeneities such as the air-tissue, lung-tissue and tissue-bone interfaces.}, }
@article {pmid11007013, year = {2000}, author = {Senne, DA and Pedersen, JC and Hutto, DL and Taylor, WD and Schmitt, BJ and Panigrahy, B}, title = {Pathogenicity of West Nile virus in chickens.}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {44}, number = {3}, pages = {642-649}, pmid = {11007013}, issn = {0005-2086}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Animals, Zoo ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/pathology/virology ; Birds ; Chickens ; Disease Outbreaks/veterinary ; Horse Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; Horses ; Humans ; New England/epidemiology ; Poultry Diseases/pathology/physiopathology/*virology ; Specific Pathogen-Free Organisms ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/pathology/*veterinary ; West Nile virus/isolation &amp; purification/*pathogenicity ; }, abstract = {In the fall of 1999, West Nile virus (WNV) was isolated for the first time in the Western Hemisphere during an outbreak of neurologic disease in humans, horses, and wild and zoo birds in the northeastern United States. Chickens are a potential reservoir for WNV, and little is known about the pathogenicity of WNV in domestic chickens. Seven-week-old chickens derived from a specific-pathogen-free flock were inoculated subcutaneously with 1.8 x 10(3) 50% tissue culture infectious dose of a crow isolate of WNV in order to observe clinical signs and evaluate the viremic phase, gross and microscopic lesions, contact transmission, and immunologic response. There were no observable clinical signs in the WNV-inoculated chickens during the 21-day observation period. However, histopathologic examination of tissues revealed myocardial necrosis, nephritis, and pneumonitis at 5 and 10 days postinoculation (DPI); moderate to severe nonsuppurative encephalitis also was observed in brain tissue from one of four inoculated birds examined at 21 DPI. WNV was recovered from blood plasma for up to 8 DPI. Virus titers as high as 10(5)/ml in plasma were observed at 4 DPI. Fecal shedding of virus was detected in cloacal swabs on 4 and 5 DPI only. The WNV also was isolated from myocardium, spleen, kidney, lung, and intestine collected from chickens euthanatized at 3, 5, and 10 DPI. No virus was isolated from inoculated chickens after 10 DPI. Antibodies specific to WNV were detected in inoculated chickens as early as 5 DPI by the plaque reduction neutralization test and 7 DPI by the indirect fluorescent antibody test. Chickens placed in contact with inoculated chickens at 1 DPI lacked WNV-specific antibodies, and no WNV was isolated from their blood plasma or cloacal swabs throughout the 21 days of the experiment.}, }
@article {pmid11000943, year = {1999}, author = {Brey, PT}, title = {[Paul-Louis Simond and coccidia].}, journal = {Bulletin de la Societe de pathologie exotique (1990)}, volume = {92}, number = {5 Pt 2}, pages = {381-382}, pmid = {11000943}, issn = {0037-9085}, mesh = {Animals ; *Coccidia/growth &amp; development ; Coccidiosis/*history/parasitology ; Flagella ; History, 19th Century ; Humans ; Malaria/history ; Turkey ; Caudata/parasitology ; }, abstract = {In 1880, during a sojourn at Constantine, Alphonse Laveran discovered the etiological agent of human malaria. During his microscopic observations of the parasite in freshly collected blood, Laveran's attention was attracted to the movement of flagellar bodies in the preparations. For Laveran these flagellar bodies corresponded to living organisms, in fact he considered them the most characteristic stage of the parasite; perhaps the sexual form of the parasite. In 1884, back in Paris at the military hospital Val de Grâce, A. Laveran showed these flagellated bodies to Pasteur, Roux and Chamberland who all thought that is was impossible not to recognize a living body in this mass of protoplasm displacing the surrounding red blood cells with its protruding flagella. As early as 1890, Elie Metchnikoff established a link between the flagellar bodies of Laveran and the stealthy stage of parasitic Coccidia infecting the intestinal epithelium of salamanders. It was the Pasteuriens and a few others scientists like Danilewski and Pfeiffer who firmly believed that the flagellar forms were indeed a normal stage during the hematozoan life cycle. On the contrary, Grassi and the Italian school, as well as the French protozoologist Labbé were convinced that the flagellar bodies corresponded to a degenerative form of the parasite provoked by the exposure of the parasites to air during slide preparation. In early 1896, P-L Simond joined Metchnikoff's laboratory and was assigned to study salamander coccidia in order to clarify the nature of the flagellar bodies. In a very short period of time, Simond clearly demonstrated that the coccidia had two types of life cycles; one of which resulted in the formation of flagellar bodies. Simond called the flagellar bodies "chromatozoites" due to the important quantities of chromatin twisted around the flagellum. From these observations and the sperm-like movement of the chromatozoites, Simond put forth the hypothesis that the chromatozoites were the male sexual forms of the parasite. He noted that they were found in all species of coccidia, as well as in the different species of malaria causing hematozoans of man and birds. Simond went even further in his interpretation to suggest that malaria parasites undergo sexual reproduction. This was indeed true, but Simond thought erroneously that sexual reproduction in hematozoans would result in the formation of resistant spores like in the Coccidia. The sexual reproduction hypothesis of malaria parasites was also formulated independently a year later by W. G. MacCallum (1898) working in the United States on Halteridium, a hematozoan infecting crows. Initially MacCallum was not aware of Simond's work, but later gave Simond full credit for his work on Coccidia. Furthermore, MacCallum observed for the first time the chromatozoite (microgamete) enter a female element (macrogamete) to form a mobile worm-like stage of the parasite know today as the ookinete. In his writings Simond is very modest, giving most of the credit to his mentors Metchnikoff and Laveran, but Laveran in an article which appeared in 1899 recognizes P.-L. Simond as the first person having put forth the hypothesis that the flagellar bodies of hematozoans causing human and bird malaria were the male forms of the parasite destined to fertilize the female elements.}, }
@article {pmid10997860, year = {2000}, author = {Nakamura, H and Nakanishi, M and Furukawa, TA and Hamanaka, T and Tokudome, S}, title = {Validity of brief intelligence tests for patients with Alzheimer's disease.}, journal = {Psychiatry and clinical neurosciences}, volume = {54}, number = {4}, pages = {435-439}, doi = {10.1046/j.1440-1819.2000.00733.x}, pmid = {10997860}, issn = {1323-1316}, mesh = {Aged ; *Alzheimer Disease ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; *Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {The validity of two kinds of brief intelligence tests for patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) was investigated. In study 1, five short forms of the Japanese Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (JWAIS-R) were administered to 102 AD patients. The results showed that the intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) between IQ estimated with the short forms and those obtained by administration of the full JWAIS-R were satisfactory, ranging from 0.82 to 0.98, and that the abbreviated forms took a shorter time to execute. In study 2, the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) were administered to 67 AD patients. The ICC between the IQ estimated with these tests and the full-scale IQ of the JWAIS-R were both acceptable at 0.57, and each test could be carried out in a very short time. It was concluded that these brief tests, particularly the WAIS-R short forms, are highly practical for quick measurement of intelligence in AD patients, although they have their respective limitations.}, }
@article {pmid10983832, year = {2000}, author = {Griffin, LR and Thomas, CJ}, title = {The spatial distribution and size of rook (Corvus frugilegus) breeding colonies is affected by both the distribution of foraging habitat and by intercolony competition.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {267}, number = {1451}, pages = {1463-1467}, doi = {10.1098/rspb.2000.1165}, pmid = {10983832}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Birds/*physiology ; Breeding ; *Competitive Behavior ; Demography ; Habits ; Multivariate Analysis ; }, abstract = {Explanations for the variation in the number of nests at bird colonies have focused on competitive or habitat effects without considering potential interactions between the two. For the rook, a colonial corvid which breeds seasonally but forages around the colony throughout the year, both the amount of foraging habitat and its interaction with the number of competitors from surrounding colonies are important predictors of colony size. The distance over which these effects are strongest indicates that, for rooks, colony size may be limited outside of the breeding season when colony foraging ranges are larger and overlap to a greater extent.}, }
@article {pmid10974465, year = {2000}, author = {Posner, MD and Quivey, JM and Akazawa, PF and Xia, P and Akazawa, C and Verhey, LJ}, title = {Dose optimization for the treatment of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma: a comparison of treatment planning techniques.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {48}, number = {2}, pages = {475-483}, doi = {10.1016/s0360-3016(00)00621-0}, pmid = {10974465}, issn = {0360-3016}, mesh = {Carcinoma/diagnostic imaging/*radiotherapy ; Female ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Middle Aged ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; Thyroid Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging/*radiotherapy ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To evaluate and compare dose optimization for the treatment of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma using a 3D conformal plan, and two 3D intensity-modulated inverse plans.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: After patient immobilization using an alpha cradle and head-mask system, a postoperative CT scan was obtained to delineate the gross tumor volume (GTV), the clinical tumor volume (CTV), and adjacent critical structures. Treatment plans were generated using UM-Plan (University of Michigan), PeacockPlan and Corvus (NOMOS Corporation, Sewickley, PA). Isodoses were displayed in the sagittal, coronal, and multiple axial planes, and dose-volume histograms (DVH) were generated for the GTV, CTV, and critical normal tissues. Treatment times were estimated to compare the practicality of delivering each plan in a busy radiotherapy department.<br><br>RESULTS: All three treatment planning systems were able to deliver a minimum dose of 60 Gy to the GTV while keeping the maximum spinal cord dose at or below 45 Gy. However, there were differences in the doses delivered to 50% and 5% of the cord, the minimum CTV dose, and the overall treatment time. The PeacockPlan best spared the uninvolved tissues of the posterior neck, and provided the lowest dose to the cord without compromising the CTV.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Inverse treatment planning provides superior dose optimization for the treatment of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. The radiobiologic impact of intensity modulation for this tumor should be further tested clinically.}, }
@article {pmid10960132, year = {2000}, author = {Vander Lee, B and Lutz, RS}, title = {Dose-tissue relationships for dieldrin in nestling black-billed magpies.}, journal = {Bulletin of environmental contamination and toxicology}, volume = {65}, number = {4}, pages = {427-434}, doi = {10.1007/s001280000025}, pmid = {10960132}, issn = {0007-4861}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*metabolism ; Dieldrin/*blood ; Environmental Monitoring ; Pesticide Residues/*blood ; Tissue Distribution ; Weight Gain/drug effects ; }, }
@article {pmid10955717, year = {2000}, author = {Kivelä, T and Jääskeläinen, J and Vaheri, A and Carpén, O}, title = {Ezrin, a membrane-organizing protein, as a polarization marker of the retinal pigment epithelium in vertebrates.}, journal = {Cell and tissue research}, volume = {301}, number = {2}, pages = {217-223}, doi = {10.1007/s004410000225}, pmid = {10955717}, issn = {0302-766X}, mesh = {Aged ; Animals ; Biomarkers/analysis ; Cattle ; Ciliary Body/chemistry/cytology ; Cytoskeletal Proteins ; Dogs ; Epithelial Cells/chemistry ; Eye Neoplasms/chemistry ; Fetus ; Humans ; Immunohistochemistry ; Iris/chemistry ; Membrane Proteins/analysis/immunology ; Microvilli/chemistry ; Middle Aged ; Phosphoproteins/*analysis/immunology ; Pigment Epithelium of Eye/*chemistry/cytology ; Rats ; Vertebrates/*anatomy &amp; histology/embryology ; }, abstract = {Immunoreactivity for ezrin, a membrane-organizing phosphoprotein that tethers actin microfilaments to cell membrane proteins, was evaluated as a polarization marker in the intraocular neuroepithelial cells of vertebrates, especially in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Six fetal human eyes representing the 14th-28th gestational weeks, 9 normal adult eyes, 12 eyes with intraocular tumors, and 26 eyes from 15 other vertebrate species were analyzed by immunohistochemistry using the avidin-biotinylated peroxidase complex (ABC) method and monoclonal antibody (mAb) 3C12 to ezrin. The apical cytoplasm and microvilli of the human RPE always reacted with mAb 3C12, but the basal cytoplasm was labeled in reactive RPE only. In autopsy eyes and if fixation was delayed, ezrin immunoreactivity in RPE was more diffuse. Developing RPE became gradually immunoreactive from the 14th week of gestation onward. The microvilli of the baboon, pig, raccoon dog, cow, and rat RPE cells were likewise labeled, and their basal cytoplasm was variably immunoreactive as well, but the microvilli of the avian RPE did not react with the antibody used. In all six mammals mentioned, both layers of the ciliary epithelium and the anterior iris epithelium reacted for ezrin, and the posterior epithelium was weakly labeled in pig, cow, and rat eyes. Normal peripheral and reactive human retina, and normal baboon, pig, raccoon dog, cow, rat, black grouse, and jay eyes, showed immunoreaction for ezrin in Muller cells, usually in their microvilli. Ezrin is widely found in RPE and anterior segment neuroepithelia of the mammalian eye, in which it may segregate membrane proteins to specific membrane surfaces, especially to the apical microvilli of the RPE, which intimately interact with outer segments of photoreceptor cells. The ezrin gene on human chromosome 6q25-26 is consequently a candidate gene for causing retinal degenerations.}, }
@article {pmid10948266, year = {2000}, author = {Saunders, MA and Edwards, SV}, title = {Dynamics and phylogenetic implications of MtDNA control region sequences in New World Jays (Aves: Corvidae).}, journal = {Journal of molecular evolution}, volume = {51}, number = {2}, pages = {97-109}, doi = {10.1007/s002390010070}, pmid = {10948266}, issn = {0022-2844}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Pairing ; Base Sequence ; Birds/*genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/*genetics ; Likelihood Functions ; Molecular Sequence Data ; *Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {To study the evolution of mtDNA and the intergeneric relationships of New World Jays (Aves: Corvidae), we sequenced the entire mitochondrial DNA control region (CR) from 21 species representing all genera of New World jays, an Old World jay, crows, and a magpie. Using maximum likelihood methods, we found that both the transition/transversion ratio (kappa) and among site rate variation (alpha) were higher in flanking domains I and II than in the conserved central domain and that the frequency of indels was highest in domain II. Estimates of kappa and alpha were much more influenced by the density of taxon sampling than by alternative optimal tree topologies. We implemented a successive approximation method incorporating these parameters into phylogenetic analysis. In addition we compared our study in detail to a previous study using cytochrome b and morphology to examine the effect of taxon sampling, evolutionary rates of genes, and combined data on tree resolution. We found that the particular weighting scheme used had no effect on tree topology and little effect on tree robustness. Taxon sampling had a significant effect on tree robustness but little effect on the topology of the best tree. The CR data set differed nonsignificantly from the tree derived from the cytochrome b/morphological data set primarily in the placement of the genus Gymnorhinus, which is near the base of the CR tree. However, contrary to conventional taxonomy, the CR data set suggested that blue and black jays (Cyanocorax sensu lato) might be paraphyletic and that the brown jay Psilorhinus (=Cyanocorax) morio is the sister group to magpie jays (Calocitta), a phylogenetic hypothesis that is likely as parsimonious with regard to nonmolecular characters as monophyly of Cyanocorax. The CR tree also suggests that the common ancestor of NWJs was likely a cooperative breeder. Consistent with recent systematic theory, our data suggest that DNA sequences with high substitution rates such as the CR may nonetheless be useful in reconstructing relatively deep phylogenetic nodes in avian groups.}, }
@article {pmid10947265, year = {2000}, author = {Kung, JH and Chen, GT}, title = {Intensity modulated radiotherapy dose delivery error from radiation field offset inaccuracy.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {27}, number = {7}, pages = {1617-1622}, doi = {10.1118/1.599028}, pmid = {10947265}, issn = {0094-2405}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Models, Theoretical ; Phantoms, Imaging ; Radiometry/*methods ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*methods ; Reproducibility of Results ; Software ; }, abstract = {In Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT), irradiation is delivered in a number of small aperture subfields. The fluences shaped by these small apertures are highly sensitive to inaccuracies in multileaf collimator (MLC) calibration. The Radiation Field Offset (RFO) is the difference between a radiation and a light field at the Source to Axis Distance (SAD) for a MLC. An Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) system must incorporate a RFO by closing in all leaf openings. In IMRT, RFO inaccuracy will result in a dose error to the interior of a target volume. We analyze dosimetric consequences of incorporating a wrong RFO into the CORVUS, 1 cm x 1 cm, step and shoot, IMRT system. The following method was employed. First an IMRT plan is generated for a target volume in a phantom, which produces a set of dynamic MLC (DMLC) files with the correct RFO value. To simulate delivery with a wrong RFO value, we wrote a computer code that reads in the DMLC file with the correct RFO value and produces another DMLC with an incorrect RFO specified by a user. Finally the phantom was irradiated with the correct and the incorrect RFO valued DMLC files, and the doses were measured with an ionization chamber. The method was applied to 9 fields, 6 MV, IMRT plans. We measured Dose Error Sensitivity Factor (DESF) for each plan, which ranged from (0-8)% mm(-1). The DESF(x) is defined as a fractional dose error to a point (x) in a target volume per mm of the RFO error, i.e., DESF(x) is equivalent to ¿deltaD(x)/D(x)deltaRFO¿. Therefore, we concluded that for CORVUS, 6 MV, 1 cm x 1 cm, step and shoot IMRT, RFO must be determined within an accuracy of 0.5 mm if a fractional dose error to a target volume is to be less than 4%. We propose an analytic framework to understand the measured DESF's. From the analysis we conclude that a large DESF was associated with an DMLC file with small average leaf openings. For 1 cm x 1 cm, step and shoot IMRT, the largest possible DESF is predicted to be 20% mm(-1). In addition, we wrote computer code that can calculate a DESF of a DMLC file. The code was written in Mathematica 3.0. The code can be used to screen patient IMRT plans that are highly sensitive to a RFO error.}, }
@article {pmid10945921, year = {2000}, author = {Raven, J}, title = {The Raven's progressive matrices: change and stability over culture and time.}, journal = {Cognitive psychology}, volume = {41}, number = {1}, pages = {1-48}, doi = {10.1006/cogp.1999.0735}, pmid = {10945921}, issn = {0010-0285}, mesh = {Child ; *Culture ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Data relating to the stability and variation in the norms for the Raven's Progressive Matrices Test (a well-validated measure of basic cognitive functioning) for different cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups on a worldwide and within-country basis are first summarized. Subsequent sections deal with variation over time. A possible explanation for the variation in norms over time and between ethnic groups within countries is offered.}, }
@article {pmid10945084, year = {2000}, author = {Rabinowitz, J and Reichenberg, A and Weiser, M and Mark, M and Kaplan, Z and Davidson, M}, title = {Cognitive and behavioural functioning in men with schizophrenia both before and shortly after first admission to hospital. Cross-sectional analysis.}, journal = {The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science}, volume = {177}, number = {}, pages = {26-32}, doi = {10.1192/bjp.177.1.26}, pmid = {10945084}, issn = {0007-1250}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Case-Control Studies ; Cognition Disorders/physiopathology ; Disease Progression ; Hospitalization ; Humans ; Israel ; Male ; Mental Disorders/*physiopathology ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The extent of premorbid changes associated with the onset of schizophrenia are debated.<br><br>AIMS: The study examined cognitive and behavioural functioning prior to, and after, first hospitalisation for schizophrenia.<br><br>METHOD: Data from the Israeli Draft Board Register of intelligence, social functioning and behaviour testing for all Israeli males aged 16-17 was linked with data from the National Psychiatric Hospitalisation Case Register. This identified 692 men who had been admitted to hospital for schizophrenia. Cases and non-cases matched on age and school were compared, as were cases aggregated by the time that had elapsed between testing and first admission to hospital.<br><br>RESULTS: Cases performed worse than non-cases on all measures. On Social Functioning and on Raven's Progressive Matrices-R, differences between cases and non-cases were progressively greater for cases admitted closer to the time of testing. These differences were greatest for persons tested after first psychiatric hospitalisation.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The results confirm premorbid deficits associated with schizophrenia and support the hypothesis that decline is progressive.}, }
@article {pmid10937312, year = {2000}, author = {Blagrove, M and Akehurst, L}, title = {Effects of sleep loss on confidence-accuracy relationships for reasoning and eyewitness memory.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Applied}, volume = {6}, number = {1}, pages = {59-73}, doi = {10.1037//1076-898x.6.1.59}, pmid = {10937312}, issn = {1076-898X}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Attention ; *Concept Formation ; Criminal Law ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Mental Recall ; *Problem Solving ; Sleep Deprivation/*psychology ; Suggestion ; }, abstract = {Participants (n = 48) deprived of sleep for 29-50 hr, in comparison with controls (n = 45), underestimated their performance on logical reasoning and Raven's matrices. Such caution may ameliorate adverse practical consequences of sleep loss. In contrast, although sleep loss participants were more suggestible on the Gudjonsson Suggestibility Scale (G. H. Gudjonsson, 1984, 1987), they maintained confidence in their suggestible responses and were inaccurate when responding with the highest rating of confidence. This indicates that the increased suggestibility is internalized and is due to a cognitive deficit rather than to compliance. Eyewitness confidence-accuracy correlations were low but usually significant and were lowest after 47-50 hr of sleep loss. Repetition of leading questions led to increases in confidence for suggestible responses (with no interaction with sleep loss) but not for nonsuggestible responses, indicating a problem for jurors' evaluations of practiced testimony.}, }
@article {pmid10935041, year = {2000}, author = {Schoenbaum, MA and Hall, SM and Glock, RD and Grant, K and Jenny, AL and Schiefer, TJ and Sciglibaglio, P and Whitlock, RH}, title = {An outbreak of type C botulism in 12 horses and a mule.}, journal = {Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association}, volume = {217}, number = {3}, pages = {365-8, 340}, doi = {10.2460/javma.2000.217.365}, pmid = {10935041}, issn = {0003-1488}, mesh = {Animals ; Arizona/epidemiology ; Bird Diseases/transmission ; Birds ; Botulinum Toxins/*isolation &amp; purification ; Botulism/epidemiology/transmission/*veterinary ; Disease Outbreaks/*veterinary ; Disease Vectors ; *Equidae ; Feces/chemistry ; Female ; Gastrointestinal Contents/chemistry ; Horse Diseases/*epidemiology/transmission ; Horses ; Male ; }, abstract = {A USDA Early Response Team investigated deaths of several horses and a mule in northern Arizona at the request of local animal health officials. Thirteen animals (12 horses and 1 mule) housed at 5 facilities in a 7.4 square mile area died between August 1998 and January 1999. Clinical signs consisted of muscular weakness that rapidly progressed to lateral recumbency. Ten animals had paresis of the tongue, throat, or lips. Affected animals appeared alert and were interested in eating and drinking, even while recumbent. All 13 animals were euthanatized. Clostridium botulinum type C was isolated from feces or intestinal contents from 3 affected horses. Preformed toxin was detected in samples of soil and bird droppings collected from a nearby horse burial site. It was hypothesized that the outbreak was a result of birds, presumably ravens, feeding at the burial site and at horse facilities in the area that transferred toxin to the affected animals.}, }
@article {pmid10917261, year = {2000}, author = {Cooper, RA and Dvorznak, MJ and Rentschler, AJ and Boninger, ML}, title = {Displacement between the seating surface and hybrid test dummy during transitions with a variable configuration wheelchair: a technical note.}, journal = {Journal of rehabilitation research and development}, volume = {37}, number = {3}, pages = {297-303}, pmid = {10917261}, issn = {0748-7711}, mesh = {Biomechanical Phenomena ; Biomedical Engineering/methods ; Equipment Design/methods ; Equipment Safety ; Humans ; *Manikins ; *Posture ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Surface Properties ; *Wheelchairs ; }, abstract = {Changing seating posture can extend the amount of time a person can safely remain seated without damaging tissue or becoming fatigued. The Excelsior is an electrically powered wheelchair that utilizes sit-to-stand (STS) and sit-to-recline (STR) motions to aid in pressure relief. The motion of the wheelchair seating system must closely follow anatomical paths or ulcers may develop from the resulting shear forces. Displacement between the person and the wheelchair seating surface is one measure of these shear forces. The displacement between a Hybrid II 50th percentile anthropometric test dummy (ATD) and the seating surface of the Excelsior wheelchair was examined during STS and STR with two cushions, a Jay Active and a low-profile Roho cushion. The difference between the backrest and ATD back angles were 4.29 degrees +/- 2.13 degrees and 1.78 degrees +/- 1.73 degrees for the Roho and Jay cushions respectively during STS and 3.32 degrees +/- 4.21 degrees and 10.71 degrees +/- 6.20 degrees during STR. These were statistically significant at p<.05. During STS, shear displacement between the Hybrid II back and Excelsior backrest did not exceed 1.5 cm for either cushion. ATD thigh-to-seat displacements were 2.5 cm for the Jay and 3.0 cm for the Roho cushion. STR produced dummy thigh-to-seat displacements of 1.5 cm and 3.5 cm for the Jay and Roho cushions respectively. Shear displacement in the ATD back was about 3.5 cm for the Roho and 6 cm for the Jay. The latter displacement should be reduced; however, the other conditions are marginal or acceptable. Hysteresis was acceptable or better for all cushion/motion combinations, with the highest net displacement of about 2.5 cm.}, }
@article {pmid10913462, year = {2000}, author = {Shevitz, SA}, title = {Jay Haley revisited: the art of being a failure as an administrator.}, journal = {Psychiatric services (Washington, D.C.)}, volume = {51}, number = {8}, pages = {1047-1048}, doi = {10.1176/appi.ps.51.8.1047}, pmid = {10913462}, issn = {1075-2730}, mesh = {Mental Disorders/therapy ; *Patient Care Management ; Treatment Failure ; }, }
@article {pmid10907701, year = {2000}, author = {Yoshida, T and Sugimoto, T and Sato, M and Hirai, K}, title = {Incidence of Listeria monocytogenes in wild animals in Japan.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {62}, number = {6}, pages = {673-675}, doi = {10.1292/jvms.62.673}, pmid = {10907701}, issn = {0916-7250}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/*microbiology ; Birds/*microbiology ; Feces/microbiology ; Haplorhini/microbiology ; Incidence ; Japan/epidemiology ; Listeria monocytogenes/*isolation &amp; purification ; Listeriosis/epidemiology/*veterinary ; Mammals/*microbiology ; Songbirds/microbiology ; }, abstract = {Between 1991 and 1993, the intestinal contents and feces of wild animals in Japan were examined for the presence of Listeria. The wild animals examined included 623 mammals (11 species) and 996 birds (18 species). Listeria species were isolated from 38 (6.1%) of the 623 mammalian samples and 133 (13.4%) of 996 bird samples. The highest incidence of Listeria in the mammals was found in Japanese monkeys (20.0%) and that in birds was found in crows (43.2%). The incidence of Listeria in Japanese monkeys varied from 0 to 40.0% depending on the capture area. L. monocytogenes was isolated from II of these positive samples. Serovars 1/2a and 4b predominated in eight serotyped L. monocytogenes isolates.}, }
@article {pmid10886309, year = {2000}, author = {Farina, E and Gattellaro, G and Pomati, S and Magni, E and Perretti, A and Cannatà, AP and Nichelli, P and Mariani, C}, title = {Researching a differential impairment of frontal functions and explicit memory in early Parkinson's disease.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {7}, number = {3}, pages = {259-267}, doi = {10.1046/j.1468-1331.2000.00066.x}, pmid = {10886309}, issn = {1351-5101}, mesh = {Aged ; Cognition ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/*physiopathology ; Humans ; Male ; *Memory ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/*physiopathology/*psychology ; Reference Values ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {An impairment at tasks sensitive to frontal lobe damage has been repeatedly reported in Parkinson's disease, but the exact nature of these deficits has not yet been clarified. Similarly, deficits of visuo-spatial functions have been frequently observed, but it is still debated whether verbal and visuo-spatial memory can be differentially affected. In this study we have compared the performance of 20 mild Parkinson's disease patients (I-II Hoehn and Yahr stage) and 18 matched normal controls, at tasks assessing frontal functions and explicit memory. We detected a selective deficit in set shifting and maintaining, without impairment in categorization and set formation. The lack of a selective increase in perseverative errors might indicate that perseverations either measure something different from set shifting or that they do not represent an index sensitive enough to set shifting impairment. Parkinson's disease patients were also significantly impaired at Raven's Progressive Matrices, a task assessing both frontal and visuo-spatial aspects. However, they did not show any differential impairment of visuo-spatial memory. Indeed, despite a trend of lower performance in visuo-spatial learning, memory performance of Parkinson's disease patients was significantly different from that of controls only at a free recall test which involved both verbal and visuo-spatial memory. We suggest the exploration of set shifting and maintaining to detect 'frontal' deficits in mild Parkinson's disease. We argue that Raven's Progressive Matrices is a valuable task for detecting subclinical cognitive deficits in Parkinson's disease, even if it does not show a specific profile of impairment in these patients. According to our results, a differential evaluation of verbal vs. visuo-spatial memory is not necessary in clinical practice, whilst free recall confirms its usefulness to detect subclinical impairments of memory functions.}, }
@article {pmid10902320, year = {2000}, author = {Coyle, DR and McMillin, JD and Krause, SC and Hart, ER}, title = {Laboratory and field evaluations of two Bacillus thuringiensis formulations, Novodor and Raven, for control of cottonwood leaf beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae).}, journal = {Journal of economic entomology}, volume = {93}, number = {3}, pages = {713-720}, doi = {10.1603/0022-0493-93.3.713}, pmid = {10902320}, issn = {0022-0493}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bacillus thuringiensis ; *Coleoptera ; Pest Control, Biological/*methods ; }, abstract = {Laboratory and field experiments were conducted to determine the efficacy of two Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner formulations, Novodor and Raven, for controlling cottonwood leaf beetle, Chrysomela scripta F. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). In laboratory bioassays, larvae or adults were added to petri dishes containing Populus x euramericana Guinier 'Eugenei' foliage that had been treated with distilled water (control) or one of the commercial Bt formulations at either high or low label rates. Survival was recorded on a 24-h basis, and leaf area consumed was measured at the conclusion of all trials. Significant differences from the control in mortality and leaf area consumption resulted in the Novodor and Raven treatments for all life stages tested; however, adults were better able to withstand the effects of B. thuringiensis toxins than were the immatures. Early- and late instar C. scripta populations were monitored in the field (1998 and 1999) after treatment with either water or various concentrations of one of the commercial Bt formulations. Significant mortality resulted with all concentrations and for all life stages tested compared with the control (tap water). The commercial formulations also were tested under plantation conditions as part of a long-term defoliation study. Both Novodor and Raven reduced cottonwood leaf beetle defoliation damage after a single application, giving high efficacy for control of cottonwood leaf beetle under the conditions and concentrations evaluated.}, }
@article {pmid10900295, year = {2000}, author = {Miura, T and Funato, T and Yabuki, S and Sasaki, T and Kaku, M}, title = {Detection of monoclonal proteins by capillary electrophoresis using a zwitterion in the running buffer.}, journal = {Clinica chimica acta; international journal of clinical chemistry}, volume = {299}, number = {1-2}, pages = {87-99}, doi = {10.1016/s0009-8981(00)00277-1}, pmid = {10900295}, issn = {0009-8981}, mesh = {Antibodies, Monoclonal/*analysis ; Buffers ; Electrophoresis, Capillary ; Electrophoresis, Cellulose Acetate ; Humans ; Immunoglobulin G/analysis ; Immunoglobulin M/analysis ; Immunoglobulins/analysis ; Indicators and Reagents ; Ions ; }, abstract = {Some cases have been reported in which a small monoclonal protein (M-protein) cannot be detected by conventional cellulose acetate membrane electrophoresis (CAE) or capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) using a short fused-silica capillary. This is probably because these methods do not have the necessary sensitivity or resolution. To overcome this problem, we improved the CZE system by using a longer capillary and adding a zwitterion to the running buffer (pH 10.0). A comparison of CZE and CAE demonstrated that with the exception of alpha(1)- and alpha(2)-globulin, the correlation was satisfactory in serum samples from 34 patients with M-proteins which had been detected by immunoelectrophoresis. In addition, a comparison of CZE electropherograms with those from CAE showed that small M-proteins that went undetected by CAE could be detected by CZE in four patients whose diseases included epipharyngeal carcinoma, solitary plasmacytoma, Crow-Fukase syndrome and macroglobulinemia. The improved resolution produced by a longer capillary may be effective for the detection of small M-proteins.}, }
@article {pmid10890586, year = {2000}, author = {Pollok, B and Prior, H and Güntürkün, O}, title = {Development of object permanence in food-storing magpies (Pica pica).}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {114}, number = {2}, pages = {148-157}, doi = {10.1037/0735-7036.114.2.148}, pmid = {10890586}, issn = {0735-7036}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Birds ; *Cognition ; *Food ; *Memory ; }, abstract = {The development of object permanence was investigated in black-billed magpies (Pica pica), a food-storing passerine bird. The authors tested the hypothesis that food-storing development should be correlated with object-permanence development and that specific stages of object permanence should be achieved before magpies become independent. As predicted, Piagetian Stages 4 and 5 were reached before independence was achieved, and the ability to represent a fully hidden object (Piagetian Stage 4) emerged by the age when magpies begin to retrieve food. Contrary to psittacine birds and humans, but as in dogs and cats, no "A-not-B error" occurred. Although magpies also mastered 5 of 6 invisible displacement tasks, evidence of Piagetian Stage 6 competence was ambiguous.}, }
@article {pmid10890243, year = {1999}, author = {Biederman, GB and Stepaniuk, S and Davey, VA and Raven, K and Ahn, D}, title = {Observational learning in children with Down syndrome and developmental delays: the effect of presentation speed in videotaped modelling.}, journal = {Down's syndrome, research and practice : the journal of the Sarah Duffen Centre}, volume = {6}, number = {1}, pages = {12-18}, doi = {10.3104/reports.93}, pmid = {10890243}, issn = {0968-7912}, mesh = {Child ; Child Behavior/physiology ; Developmental Disabilities/*diagnosis ; *Down Syndrome ; Female ; Humans ; Learning/*physiology ; Male ; *Photic Stimulation ; Social Behavior ; Time Factors ; Videotape Recording ; }, abstract = {Children with severe developmental delays (three with Down syndrome and three with autism as the primary diagnosis) observed a videotaped model performing two basic dressing skills without prompting, verbal or otherwise, or explanation by an instructor. In a within-subjects design, dressing skills that were presented at a relatively slow presentation speed through videotaped modelling were eventually performed better than those presented at a relatively fast speed. These data in combination with evidence from this laboratory that passive modelling of basic skills is more effective than interactive modelling (e.g., Biederman, Fairhall, Raven, &amp; Davey, 1998; Biederman, Davey, Ryder, &amp; Franchi, 1994; Biederman, Ryder, Davey, &amp; Gibson, 1991) suggest that standard instructional techniques warrant reexamination both from the basis of instructional effectiveness and the efficient use of the allotment of teacher time.}, }
@article {pmid10889782, year = {2000}, author = {Murfitt, J and Peyton, R}, title = {Launching a new continuing professional development programme from the Raven Department of Education.}, journal = {Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England}, volume = {82}, number = {5 Suppl}, pages = {166-167}, pmid = {10889782}, issn = {0035-8843}, mesh = {Education, Medical, Continuing/*organization &amp; administration ; General Surgery/*education ; Humans ; Program Development ; Staff Development/methods ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {In recent years the quality agenda has taken centre stage in the medical arena. Coupled with this, the present era of rapid scientific and technological advance means that all professionals are engaged in a continuing process of life-long learning. With the pace of change increasing all the time, new thinking challenges conventional wisdom and traditional methods are constantly being superseded. Continuing professional development is the only way for surgeons to stay at the leading edge in such as challenging environment at every stage in their career, to progress--to be participants in these changes rather than merely observers.}, }
@article {pmid10889775, year = {2000}, author = {Egerton, O}, title = {Skills courses in the Raven Department of Education.}, journal = {Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England}, volume = {82}, number = {4 Suppl}, pages = {131-132}, pmid = {10889775}, issn = {0035-8843}, mesh = {Education, Medical, Continuing/*methods ; General Surgery/*education ; Humans ; Societies, Medical ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid10882999, year = {2000}, author = {Hashiguchi, T and Arimura, K and Matsumuro, K and Otsuka, R and Watanabe, O and Jonosono, M and Maruyama, Y and Maruyama, I and Osame, M}, title = {Highly concentrated vascular endothelial growth factor in platelets in Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {Muscle &amp; nerve}, volume = {23}, number = {7}, pages = {1051-1056}, doi = {10.1002/1097-4598(200007)23:7&lt;1051::aid-mus7&gt;3.0.co;2-v}, pmid = {10882999}, issn = {0148-639X}, mesh = {Adenosine Diphosphate/pharmacology ; Aged ; Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use ; Blood Platelets/*metabolism ; Calcium/pharmacology ; Endothelial Growth Factors/*blood ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay ; Female ; Humans ; Lymphokines/*blood ; Male ; Methylprednisolone/therapeutic use ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*blood/drug therapy ; Platelet Activation/drug effects ; Platelet Aggregation/physiology ; Platelet Count ; Thrombin/pharmacology ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors ; }, abstract = {We report a marked difference in concentration of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) between serum and plasma in patients with Crow-Fukase syndrome (CFS). The serum/plasma VEGF levels in 4 CFS patients were 8,634/152, 5,203/176, 3,724/127, and 868/13 pg/ml, respectively. We also showed that platelets were a major source of this VEGF and that VEGF was released during platelet aggregation by physiological stimulation. It is suggested that in CFS, local VEGF concentration is markedly elevated by aggregation of platelets containing excessive VEGF and their adhesion to vascular walls, resulting in excessive physiological activities of VEGF. Our findings provide important information for developing more effective therapeutic trials.}, }
@article {pmid10881289, year = {2000}, author = {Muñoz-Antolí, C and Toledo, R and Esteban, JG}, title = {The life cycle and transmission dynamics of the larval stages of Hypoderaeum conoideum.}, journal = {Journal of helminthology}, volume = {74}, number = {2}, pages = {165-172}, pmid = {10881289}, issn = {0022-149X}, mesh = {Animals ; Chickens/parasitology ; Ducks/parasitology ; Echinostomatidae/*growth &amp; development/pathogenicity/ultrastructure ; Larva ; Lymnaea/parasitology ; Trematode Infections/parasitology/transmission/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {The morphology of the different larval stages and life cycle of Hypoderaeum conoideum (Trematoda: Echinostomatidae) are described. The freshwater snail species Lymnaea peregra (Gastropoda: Lymnaeidae) serves as the natural first intermediate host and this and L. corvus serve as experimental first intermediate hosts. These and other freshwater snails, such as Physella acuta and Gyraulus chinensis, in turn serve as second intermediate hosts. Adult worms were obtained from chicks and ducks, but not from rats, mice and golden hamsters. The morphology of the larval stages is compared with previous work on H. conoideum. Several aspects of the biology of the life history stages are described with emphasis on the transmission dynamics of the free-living stages. Differential suitability of the snail species that may act as first and/or second intermediate hosts is studied and discussed.}, }
@article {pmid10877899, year = {2000}, author = {Midford, PE and Hailman, JP and Woolfenden, GE}, title = {Social learning of a novel foraging patch in families of free-living Florida scrub-jays.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {59}, number = {6}, pages = {1199-1207}, doi = {10.1006/anbe.1999.1419}, pmid = {10877899}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {Free-living juvenile Florida scrub-jays, Aphelocoma coerulescens, learned to forage in a novel patch (the centre of a ring) when in proximity to other family members that foraged successfully. We were able to distinguish the contributions of social learning and of individual learning, and to show that social learning occurred. The foraging task required individual jays to dig for peanut bits (chopped fragments) buried in sand in the centre of a 33-cm plastic ring. Jays were trained in their family groups to perform the task during a summer season, and were allowed to perform the task in the presence of juveniles (aged 40-85 days) in later years. Jays living in 18 control families received partial exposure to the training situation, but received no exposure to the ring before being presented with the task in the presence of their young. Juveniles in 16 families with trained jays were able to witness demonstrations and to scrounge peanut pieces from the models as they completed the task. These 41 juveniles learned more of the task than the 33 juveniles in control families. Seven juvenile jays and two older, nonbreeding jays in the trained families completed the task at least once, whereas no jays in control families completed the task. A modified task that prevented snatching also prevented transmission of the complete task, although the 22 juveniles that observed the modified task learned more of the task than the 33 control juveniles. Further analysis indicated that demonstrations had their greatest effect in increasing the probability that juveniles would enter the ring. Copyright 2000 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid10869760, year = {2000}, author = {Xing, L and Lin, Z and Donaldson, SS and Le, QT and Tate, D and Goffinet, DR and Wolden, S and Ma, L and Boyer, AL}, title = {Dosimetric effects of patient displacement and collimator and gantry angle misalignment on intensity modulated radiation therapy.}, journal = {Radiotherapy and oncology : journal of the European Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology}, volume = {56}, number = {1}, pages = {97-108}, doi = {10.1016/s0167-8140(00)00192-4}, pmid = {10869760}, issn = {0167-8140}, support = {CA43840/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Immobilization ; Lumbar Vertebrae ; Movement ; Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Quality Control ; Radiation Dosage ; *Radiotherapy Dosage/standards ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; Spinal Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVE: The primary goal of this study was to examine systematically the dosimetric effect of small patient movements and linear accelerator angular setting misalignments in the delivery of intensity modulated radiation therapy. We will also provide a method for estimating dosimetric errors for an arbitrary combination of these uncertainties.<br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sites in two patients (lumbar-vertebra and nasopharynx) were studied. Optimized intensity modulated radiation therapy treatment plans were computed for each patient using a commercially available inverse planning system (CORVUS, NOMOS Corporation, Sewickley, PA). The plans used nine coplanar beams. For each patient the dose distributions and relevant dosimetric quantities were calculated, including the maximum, minimum, and average doses in targets and sensitive structures. The corresponding dose volumetric information was recalculated by purposely varying the collimator angle or gantry angle of an incident beam while keeping other beams unchanged. Similar calculations were carried out by varying the couch indices in either horizontal or vertical directions. The intensity maps of all the beams were kept the same as those in the optimized plan. The change of a dosimetric quantity, Q, for a combination of collimator and gantry angle misalignments and patient displacements was estimated using Delta=Sigma(DeltaQ/Deltax(i))Deltax(i). Here DeltaQ is the variation of Q due to Deltax(i), which is the change of the i-th variable (collimator angle, gantry angle, or couch indices), and DeltaQ/Deltax(i) is a quantity equivalent to the partial derivative of the dosimetric quantity Q with respect to x(i).<br><br>RESULTS: While the change in dosimetric quantities was case dependent, it was found that the results were much more sensitive to small changes in the couch indices than to changes in the accelerator angular setting. For instance, in the first example in the paper, a 3-mm movement of the couch in the anterior-posterior direction can cause a 38% decrease in the minimum target dose or a 41% increase in the maximum cord dose, whereas a 5 degrees change in the &amp;theta;(1)=20 degrees beam only gave rise to a 1.5% decrease in the target minimum or 5.1% in the cord maximum. The effect of systematic positioning uncertainties of the machine settings was more serious than random uncertainties, which tended to smear out the errors in dose distributions.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The dose distribution of an intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) plan changes with patient displacement and angular misalignment in a complex way. A method was proposed to estimate dosimetric errors for an arbitrary combination of uncertainties in these quantities. While it is important to eliminate the angular misalignment, it was found that the couch indices (or patient positioning) played a much more important role. Accurate patient set-up and patient immobilization is crucial in order to take advantage fully of the technological advances of IMRT. In practice, a sensitivity check should be useful to foresee potential IMRT treatment complications and a warning should be given if the sensitivity exceeds an empirical value. Quality assurance action levels for a given plan can be established out of the sensitivity calculation.}, }
@article {pmid10862728, year = {2000}, author = {Verstappen, M and Aerts, P and Van Damme, R}, title = {Terrestrial locomotion in the black-billed magpie: kinematic analysis of walking, running and out-of-phase hopping.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {203}, number = {Pt 14}, pages = {2159-2170}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.203.14.2159}, pmid = {10862728}, issn = {0022-0949}, mesh = {Animals ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Birds/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; Hindlimb/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Locomotion/*physiology ; Running/physiology ; Video Recording ; Walking/physiology ; }, abstract = {The inter-limb kinematic patterns of walking, running and out-of-phase hopping in black-billed magpies (Pica pica) were studied using high-speed video recordings. The flexion/extension patterns of the joints were similar between the gait types, suggesting that the within-leg control of the angular excursions is similar. This result is further supported by the fact that running and hopping are alternative gaits at speeds higher than walking; however, magpies show a preference for hopping. Moreover, only small differences occur between the kinematic patterns of the two limbs during out-of-phase hopping, during which the legs are believed to have different functions. The hindlimb kinematic patterns of magpies are like those of other flying and more terrestrial bird species; however, striking differences are found in comparison with humans at the level of the internal angles. This is probably due to the differences in the morphology and configuration of their legs.}, }
@article {pmid10860920, year = {2000}, author = {Lippok, B and Gardine, AA and Williamson, PS and Renner, SS}, title = {Pollination by flies, bees, and beetles of Nuphar ozarkana and N. advena (Nymphaeaceae).}, journal = {American journal of botany}, volume = {87}, number = {6}, pages = {898-902}, pmid = {10860920}, issn = {0002-9122}, abstract = {Nuphar comprises 13 species of aquatic perennials distributed in the temperate Northern Hemisphere. The European species N. lutea and N. pumila in Norway, the Netherlands, and Germany are pollinated by bees and flies, including apparent Nuphar specialists. This contrasts with reports of predominant beetle pollination in American N. advena and N. polysepala. We studied pollination in N. ozarkana in Missouri and N. advena in Texas to assess whether (1) there is evidence of pollinator shifts associated with floral-morphological differences between Old World and New World species as hypothesized by Padgett, Les, and Crow (American Journal of Botany 86: 1316-1324. 1999) and (2) whether beetle pollination characterizes American species of Nuphar. Ninety-seven and 67% of flower visits in the two species were by sweat bees, especially Lasioglossum (Evylaeus) nelumbonis. Syrphid fly species visiting both species were Paragus sp., Chalcosyrphus metallicus, and Toxomerus geminatus. The long-horned leaf beetle Donacia piscatrix was common on leaves and stems of N. ozarkana but rarely visited flowers. Fifteen percent of visits to N. advena flowers were by D. piscatrix and D. texana. The beetles' role as pollinators was investigated experimentally by placing floating mesh cages that excluded flies and bees over N. advena buds about to open and adding beetles. Beetles visited 40% of the flowers in cages, and flowers that received visits had 69% seed set, likely due to beetle-mediated geitonogamy of 1st-d flowers. Experimentally outcrossed 1st-d flowers had 62% seed set, and open-pollinated flowers 76%; 2nd-d selfed or outcrossed flowers had low seed sets (9 and 12%, respectively). Flowers are strongly protogynous and do not self spontaneously. Flowers shielded from pollinators set no seeds. A comparison of pollinator spectra in the two Old World and three New World Nuphar species studied so far suggests that the relative contribution of flies, bees, and beetles to pollen transfer in any one population depends more on these insects' relative abundances (and in the case of Donacia, presence) and alternative food sources than on stamen length differences between Old World and New World pond-lilies.}, }
@article {pmid10844823, year = {1999}, author = {Crockard, A and Briggs, N and Hoadley-Maidment, E}, title = {The Raven Department of Education: the principles of effective curriculum planning.}, journal = {Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England}, volume = {81}, number = {7 Suppl}, pages = {326-328}, pmid = {10844823}, issn = {0035-8843}, mesh = {*Curriculum ; Education, Medical, Graduate/*methods ; England ; General Surgery/*education ; Humans ; Societies, Medical ; }, }
@article {pmid10840893, year = {2000}, author = {Proctor, BE and Kranzler, JH and Rosenbloom, AL and Martinez, V and Guevara-Aguire, J}, title = {An initial investigation of validation of the Matrix Analogies Test-Expanded Form in Ecuador.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {86}, number = {2}, pages = {445-453}, doi = {10.2466/pr0.2000.86.2.445}, pmid = {10840893}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cross-Cultural Comparison ; Ecuador ; Ethnicity/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; *Problem Solving ; Psychometrics ; Reference Values ; }, abstract = {This is a first preliminary study of the validity and reliability of the Matrix Analogies Test--Expanded Form in South America. Participants were 104 Spanish-speaking children between the ages of 5 and 17 years living in Ecuador. Values of Cronbach alpha ranged from .87 to .92 for the 4 groups of items and was .95 for the total score. Raw scores on the MAT increased across ages. Scores of boys did not differ significantly from those of girls. Total test scores correlated significantly with scores on the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices (r = .62, p < .005; r = .82 before controlling for age). A principal factor analysis conducted to provide evidence of the test's construct validity indicated that all four sets of items loaded substantially on one unrotated factor, presumed to be g. In sum, these results suggest that the test is a valid and reliable nonverbal measure of general cognitive ability in this population.}, }
@article {pmid10840506, year = {2000}, author = {Everatt, J and Smythe, I and Adams, E and Ocampo, D}, title = {Dyslexia screening measures and bilingualism.}, journal = {Dyslexia (Chichester, England)}, volume = {6}, number = {1}, pages = {42-56}, doi = {10.1002/(SICI)1099-0909(200001/03)6:1&lt;42::AID-DYS157&gt;3.0.CO;2-0}, pmid = {10840506}, issn = {1076-9242}, mesh = {Child ; Dyslexia/*diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; Language ; Male ; *Multilingualism ; Verbal Learning ; }, abstract = {A series of measures used in a number of dyslexia screening tests was administered to groups of 7-8-year old English monolinguals and Sylheti/English bilinguals. Within these groups a subgroup of children was distinguished by poor spelling and reading in the absence of general ability, sensory, emotional or behavioural problems, i.e. specific literacy difficulties (SpLD). General ability (assessed by Raven's matrices), chronological age, male/female ratio and mono/bilingualism were controlled between SpLD and control groups. Screening measures assessed phonological skills, rapid naming, the ability to recite or repeat sequences of verbal and non-verbal stimuli, and visual and motor skills. Sample sizes were small owing to the selection criteria used and the small number of bilingual SpLD children identified. However, the results were encouraging in differentiating SpLD bilinguals from their peers, with the phonological measures in particular presenting consistent findings across bilingual and monolingual groupings. Those differences found between bilinguals and monolinguals are discussed in terms of a bilingual influence on the skills assessed or the reduced reliability of the measure.}, }
@article {pmid10839423, year = {2000}, author = {Guerrissi, JO}, title = {Intraoperative injection of botulinum toxin A into orbicularis oculi muscle for the treatment of crow's feet.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {105}, number = {6}, pages = {2219-25; discussion 2226-8}, pmid = {10839423}, issn = {0032-1052}, mesh = {Adult ; Blepharoplasty ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Facial Muscles ; Female ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Intraoperative Period ; Middle Aged ; *Rhytidoplasty ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the degree of efficacy of eliminating crow's feet by means of direct injection of botulinum toxin A into orbicularis oculi muscles under direct surgical vision during either blepharoplasty or face lift operations. Eighteen patients were injected with Botox A-14 in each orbicularis oculi muscle. Dilution was obtained by adding 4 ml of preservative-free saline to 100 IU of Botox A. Doses ranged from 15 to 50 IU in each muscle, varying according to the severity of wrinkles and intensity of muscle contraction. In 10 patients (56 percent), the Botox was injected throughout the outer surface of both orbicularis oculi dissected during a face-lift operation. In eight other patients (44 percent), the toxin was injected into the inner surface of both orbicularis oculi exposed during classic blepharoplasty procedures. Most authors have demonstrated that the effect produced by transcutaneous Botox lasts between 4 and 6 months; the paralysis obtained by direct muscular injection was effective for 9 months in 14 patients (78 percent) and 10 months in the other 4 patients (22 percent). Results were documented by means of preinjection and postinjection photographs, videotapes, and electromyographs. Neither local nor general adverse effects were noted. The improvement obtained in crow's feet was satisfactory to the patient and to us. The use of Botox intraoperatively permitted at the same time not only the treatment of crow's feet by paralysis of orbicularis oculi muscles but also the correction of senile changes in the lids and face by means of either blepharoplasty or face-lift operations.}, }
@article {pmid10827781, year = {2000}, author = {Ribbans, B and Galea, M}, title = {New distance learning courses from the Raven Department of Education.}, journal = {Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England}, volume = {82}, number = {3 Suppl}, pages = {91-94}, pmid = {10827781}, issn = {0035-8843}, mesh = {Education, Distance/*organization &amp; administration ; Education, Medical, Graduate/*organization &amp; administration ; General Surgery/*education ; Humans ; Teaching Materials ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {The Raven Department of Education is marking the new century by developing two new distance learning courses, both of which will include computer-based learning using the College web site. STEP 2000 will be offered to basic surgical trainees from August 2000 and replaces the MRCS-STEP course for those preparing to take the MRCS examination. The second course is the department's first distance learning offer for higher surgical trainees. Designed for HSTs in general surgery in years 1-3, it provides an introduction to the surgery of breast disease. In the two articles below, the sessional tutors leading these developments outline the main features of the two courses and explain the educational principles behind them.}, }
@article {pmid10827774, year = {2000}, author = {Jowett, P}, title = {Help for basic surgical trainees: what the Raven Department of Education can offer.}, journal = {Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England}, volume = {82}, number = {2 Suppl}, pages = {57-59}, pmid = {10827774}, issn = {0035-8843}, mesh = {Education, Medical, Graduate/*methods ; General Surgery/*education ; Humans ; Societies, Medical ; Teaching/*methods ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid10813603, year = {2000}, author = {Tripathy, DN and Schnitzlein, WM and Morris, PJ and Janssen, DL and Zuba, JK and Massey, G and Atkinson, CT}, title = {Characterization of poxviruses from forest birds in Hawaii.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {36}, number = {2}, pages = {225-230}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-36.2.225}, pmid = {10813603}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Avipoxvirus/*classification/genetics/pathogenicity ; Bird Diseases/*virology ; Cell Line ; Chick Embryo ; Chickens ; Coturnix ; Cytopathogenic Effect, Viral ; DNA, Viral/analysis ; Fowlpox virus/pathogenicity ; Hawaii ; Poxviridae Infections/*veterinary/virology ; *Songbirds ; Specific Pathogen-Free Organisms ; Virulence ; Virus Replication ; }, abstract = {Two strains of avian pox viruses were isolated from cutaneous lesions in Hawaiian crows (Corvus hawaiiensis) examined in 1994 and a third from a biopsy obtained in 1992 from an infected bird of the Apapane species (Himatione sanguinea) by inoculation of the chorioallantoic membranes (CAM) of developing chicken embryos. The resulting proliferative CAM lesions contained eosinophilic cytoplasmic inclusion bodies characteristic of pox virus infection. The pathogenicity of these three viruses in domestic chickens was mild as evidenced by the development of relatively minor lesions of short duration at the sites of inoculation. Their virulence in this host was similar to that of a fowlpox virus (FPV) vaccine strain and contrasted greatly with the ability of two field strains of FPV to produce extensive proliferative lesions. One of the Hawaiian crow pox virus isolates as well as the one originating from the Apapane species could be propagated in two secondary avian cell lines, QT-35 and LMH. A comparison of the restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP) of the genomes of the two cell line-adapted viruses, generated by EcoRI digestion, revealed a limited degree of similarity. Moreover, neither profile was comparable to those of the two field isolates of FPV, which were almost indistinguishable from each other. Thus, based on the genetic distinctness of the two Hawaiian bird viruses, they appear to represent different strains of avipoxvirus.}, }
@article {pmid10813600, year = {2000}, author = {Work, TM and Massey, JG and Rideout, BA and Gardiner, CH and Ledig, DB and Kwok, OC and Dubey, JP}, title = {Fatal toxoplasmosis in free-ranging endangered 'Alala from Hawaii.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {36}, number = {2}, pages = {205-212}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-36.2.205}, pmid = {10813600}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Agglutination Tests/veterinary ; Animals ; Antibodies, Protozoan/blood ; Biological Assay/veterinary ; Bird Diseases/drug therapy/*mortality/pathology ; Brain/parasitology/pathology ; Coccidiostats/therapeutic use ; Female ; Hawaii/epidemiology ; Immunohistochemistry ; Liver/parasitology/pathology ; Male ; Mice ; Nitriles/therapeutic use ; Songbirds/*parasitology ; Toxoplasma/immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; Toxoplasmosis, Animal/drug therapy/*mortality/pathology ; Triazines/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {The 'Alala (Corvus hawaiiensis) is the most endangered corvid in the world, and intensive efforts are being made to reintroduce it to its former native range in Hawaii. We diagnosed Toxoplasma gondii infection in five free-ranging 'Alala. One 'Alala, recaptured from the wild because it was underweight and depressed, was treated with diclazuril (10 mg/kg) orally for 10 days. Antibodies were measured before and after treatment by the modified agglutination test (MAT) using whole T. gondii tachyzoites fixed in formalin and mercaptoethanol. The MAT titer decreased four-fold from an initial titer of 1:1,600 with remarkable improvement in physical condition. Lesions of toxoplasmosis also were seen in two partially scavenged carcasses and in a third fresh intact carcass. Toxoplasma gondii was confirmed immunohistochemically by using anti-T. gondii specific serum. The organism was also cultured by bioassay in mice from tissues of one of these birds and the brain of a fifth 'Alala that did not exhibit lesions. The life cycle of the parasite was experimentally completed in cats. This is the first record of toxoplasmosis in 'Alala, and the parasite appears to pose a significant threat and management challenge to reintroduction programs for 'Alala in Hawaii.}, }
@article {pmid10810985, year = {2000}, author = {Steele, KE and Linn, MJ and Schoepp, RJ and Komar, N and Geisbert, TW and Manduca, RM and Calle, PP and Raphael, BL and Clippinger, TL and Larsen, T and Smith, J and Lanciotti, RS and Panella, NA and McNamara, TS}, title = {Pathology of fatal West Nile virus infections in native and exotic birds during the 1999 outbreak in New York City, New York.}, journal = {Veterinary pathology}, volume = {37}, number = {3}, pages = {208-224}, doi = {10.1354/vp.37-3-208}, pmid = {10810985}, issn = {0300-9858}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*pathology ; Birds ; Disease Outbreaks/*veterinary ; Immunohistochemistry ; In Situ Hybridization/veterinary ; Microscopy, Electron/veterinary ; New York City ; West Nile Fever/pathology/*veterinary ; West Nile virus ; }, abstract = {West Nile fever caused fatal disease in humans, horses, and birds in the northeastern United States during 1999. We studied birds from two wildlife facilities in New York City, New York, that died or were euthanatized and were suspected to have West Nile virus infections. Using standard histologic and ultrastructural methods, virus isolation, immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization and reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, we identified West Nile virus as the cause of clinical disease, severe pathologic changes, and death in 27 birds representing eight orders and 14 species. Virus was detected in 23/26 brains (88%), 24/ 25 hearts (96%), 15/18 spleens (83%), 14/20 livers (70%), 20/20 kidneys (100%), 10/13 adrenals (77%), 13/ 14 intestines (93%), 10/12 pancreata (83%), 5/12 lungs (42%), and 4/8 ovaries (50%) by one or more methods. Cellular targets included neurons and glial cells in the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral ganglia; myocardial fibers; macrophages and blood monocytes; renal tubular epithelium; adrenal cortical cells; pancreatic acinar cells and islet cells; intestinal crypt epithelium; oocytes; and fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells. Purkinje cells were especially targeted, except in crows and magpies. Gross hemorrhage of the brain, splenomegaly, meningoencephalitis, and myocarditis were the most prominent lesions. Immunohistochemistry was an efficient and reliable method for identifying infected cases, but the polyclonal antibody cross-reacted with St. Louis encephalitis virus and other flaviviruses. In contrast, the in situ hybridization probe pWNV-E (WN-USAMRIID99) reacted only with West Nile virus. These methods should aid diagnosticians faced with the emergence of West Nile virus in the United States.}, }
@article {pmid10800626, year = {2000}, author = {Pontón, MO and Gonzalez, JJ and Hernandez, I and Herrera, L and Higareda, I}, title = {Factor analysis of the Neuropsychological Screening Battery for Hispanics (NeSBHIS).}, journal = {Applied neuropsychology}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {32-39}, doi = {10.1207/S15324826AN0701_5}, pmid = {10800626}, issn = {0908-4282}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Attention ; *Cognition ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Female ; Hispanic or Latino/*psychology ; Humans ; *Language ; Learning ; Male ; Memory ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/*standards ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {The Neuropsychological Screening Battery for Hispanics (NeSBHIS; Pontón et al., 1996) was developed to provide clinicians and researchers with appropriate tests and norms to assess the Latino population. However, the construct validity of the NeSBHIS is unclear, and its clinical utility is untested. This study provides data on the construct validity of this battery via factor analytic methodology. Five factors were identified: (a) a language factor, which included the Controlled Oral Word Association Test, the Pontón-Satz Boston Naming Test, and the Escala de Inteligencia Wechsler para Adultos (EIWA; Wechsler, Green, &amp; Martinez, 1968) Digit Span; (b) a verbal learning factor, which included all the World Health Organization--University of California, Los Angeles Auditory Verbal Learning Test scores (Trials V, VII, and VIII); (c) an attentional-mental control factor, which included the EIWA Digit Symbol, Color Trails 1 and 2, and the EIWA Block Design; (d) a visuospatial factor, made up of the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test Copy and Memory and the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices total score; and (e) a psychomotor factor, the Pin Test. This was a stable factor structure, suggesting that the NeSBHIS has a robust construct validity.}, }
@article {pmid10789031, year = {2000}, author = {Freeman, J and Godfrey, H}, title = {The validity of the NART-RSPM index in detecting intellectual decline following traumatic brain injury: a controlled study.}, journal = {The British journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {39}, number = {1}, pages = {95-103}, doi = {10.1348/014466500163130}, pmid = {10789031}, issn = {0144-6657}, mesh = {Adult ; Brain Injuries/complications/*psychology ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/*standards ; Male ; *Reading ; Regression Analysis ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {The present study replicated Van den Broek and Bradshaw's (1994) study by developing a multiple regression equation to predict Ravens Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) scores from participants' National Adult Reading Test (NART) scores and demographic variables. A test of the validity of this procedure was undertaken by applying both the Van den Broek and Bradshaw equation and the present study's equation to a mixed sample of orthopedic control (OC) and closed head injury (CHI) participants. Premorbid RSPM scores were estimated using both equations and then compared to obtained scores. Results indicated that both equations had good predictive accuracy in estimating RSPM scores and were able to detect significantly higher rates of impairment in general intelligence in the CHI participants (24%) compared to the OC sample (7%).}, }
@article {pmid10784007, year = {2000}, author = {Smirnova, AA and Lazareva, OF and Zorina, ZA}, title = {Use of number by crows: investigation by matching and oddity learning.}, journal = {Journal of the experimental analysis of behavior}, volume = {73}, number = {2}, pages = {163-176}, pmid = {10784007}, issn = {0022-5002}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Concept Formation/physiology ; Learning/*physiology ; *Mathematics ; Songbirds ; }, abstract = {Hooded crows were trained in two-alternative simultaneous matching and oddity tasks with stimulus sets of three different categories: color (black and white), shape (Arabic Numerals 1 and 2, which were used as visual shapes only), and number of elements (arrays of one and two items). These three sets were used for training successively and repeatedly; the stimulus set was changed to the next one after the criterion (80% correct or better over 30 consecutive trials) was reached with the previous one. Training was continued until the criterion could be reached within the first 30 to 50 trials for each of the three training sets. During partial transfer tests, familiar stimuli (numerals and arrays in the range from 1 to 2) were paired with novel ones (numerals and arrays in the range from 3 to 4). At the final stage of testing only novel stimuli were presented (numerals and arrays in the range from 5 to 8). Four of 6 birds were able to transfer in these tests, and their performance was significantly above chance. Moreover, performance of the birds on the array stimuli did not differ from their performance on the color or shape stimuli. They were capable of recognizing the number of elements in arrays and comparing the stimuli by this attribute. It was concluded that crows were able to apply the matching (or oddity) concept to stimuli of numerical category.}, }
@article {pmid10781324, year = {2000}, author = {Lazareva, OF and Smirnova, AA and Rayevsky, VV and Zorina, ZA}, title = {Transitive inference in hooded crows: preliminary data.}, journal = {Doklady biological sciences : proceedings of the Academy of Sciences of the USSR, Biological sciences sections}, volume = {370}, number = {}, pages = {30-32}, pmid = {10781324}, issn = {0012-4966}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Learning ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, }
@article {pmid10779489, year = {2000}, author = {Gaasterland, T and Sczyrba, A and Thomas, E and Aytekin-Kurban, G and Gordon, P and Sensen, CW}, title = {MAGPIE/EGRET annotation of the 2.9-Mb Drosophila melanogaster Adh region.}, journal = {Genome research}, volume = {10}, number = {4}, pages = {502-510}, pmid = {10779489}, issn = {1088-9051}, mesh = {Alcohol Dehydrogenase/*genetics ; Animals ; Calcium Channels/genetics ; Computational Biology/*methods ; *Databases, Factual ; Drosophila melanogaster/*enzymology/*genetics ; Eukaryotic Cells/chemistry/physiology ; Genes, Insect/genetics ; *Software ; }, abstract = {Our challenge in annotating the 2.91-Mb Adh region of the Drosophila melanogaster genome was to identify genetic and genomic features automatically, completely, and precisely within a 6-week period. To do so, we augmented the MAGPIE microbial genome annotation system to handle eukaryotic genomic sequence data. The new configuration required the integration of eukaryotic gene-finding tools and DNA repeat tools into the automatic data collection module. It also required us to define in MAGPIE new strategies to combine data about eukaryotic exon predictions with functional data to refine the exon predictions. At the heart of the resulting new eukaryotic genome annotation system is a reverse comparison of public protein and complementary DNA sequences against the input genome to identify missing exons and to refine exon boundaries. The software modules that add eukaryotic genome annotation capability to MAGPIE are available as EGRET (Eukaryotic Genome Rapid Evaluation Tool).}, }
@article {pmid10768763, year = {2000}, author = {Toledo, R and Muñoz-Antolí, C and Esteban, JG}, title = {The life-cycle of Echinostoma friedi n. sp. (Trematoda: Echinostomatidae) in Spain and a discussion on the relationships within the 'revolutum' group based on cercarial chaetotaxy.}, journal = {Systematic parasitology}, volume = {45}, number = {3}, pages = {199-217}, pmid = {10768763}, issn = {0165-5752}, mesh = {Animals ; Chickens ; Cricetinae ; Echinostoma/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification/*growth &amp; development ; Echinostomiasis/parasitology/veterinary ; Lymnaea/parasitology ; Mice ; Muridae/parasitology ; Rats ; Sense Organs/physiology ; Snails/parasitology ; Spain ; }, abstract = {The morphology of the different stages and life-cycle of Echinostomna friedi n. sp. are described and figured. The freshwater snail Lymnaea peregra (Gastropoda: Lymnaeidae) serves as the natural and experimental first intermediate host and L. corvus and Gyraulus chinensis (Gastropoda: Planorbidae) as experimental first intermediate hosts. These, and Physella acuta (Gastropoda: Physidae), also serve as second intermediate hosts. Adult worms, possessing 37 collar spines, were obtained from naturally infected Rattus norvegicus and experimentally from albino rats, golden hamsters and chickens. Mice were not suitable experimental definitive hosts. E. friedi differs from the most closely related species in the 'revolutum' group mainly in terms of several morphological and biological features of the life-cycle stages and in its cercarial chaetotaxy. The chaetotaxy patterns of the species of the 'revolutum' group are analyzed and the results show that a taxonomic comparison of these species may be carried out on the basis of the number of sensilla in the clusters CIII VI, CIII V2 (or CIII V1 + CIII V2), CIV DL and UVb. These clusters appear adequate to establish taxonomic relationships between different species within the 'revolutum' group.}, }
@article {pmid10759810, year = {2000}, author = {Trelles, MA and Pardo, L and Benedetto, AV and García-Solana, L and Torrens, J}, title = {The significance of orbital anatomy and periocular wrinkling when performing laser skin resurfacing.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {26}, number = {3}, pages = {279-286}, doi = {10.1046/j.1524-4725.2000.09313.x}, pmid = {10759810}, issn = {1076-0512}, mesh = {Aging/pathology ; *Blepharoplasty ; Facial Muscles/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Humans ; *Laser Therapy ; Orbit/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Retrospective Studies ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {Knowledge of orbital anatomy and the interaction of muscle contractions, gravitational forces and photoagingis fundamental in understanding the limitations of carbon dioxide (CO2) laser skin resurfacing when rejuvenating the skin of the periocular area. Laser resurfacing does not change the mimetic behavior of the facial muscles nor does it influence gravitational forces. When resurfacing periocular tissue, the creation of scleral show and ectropion are a potential consequence when there is an over zealous attempt at improving the sagging malar fat pad and eyelid laxity by performing an excess amount of laser passes at the lateral portion of the lower eyelid. This results in an inadvertent widening of the palpebral fissure due to the lateral pull of the Orbicularis oculi. Retrospectively, 85 patients were studied, who had undergone periorbital resurfacing with a CO2 laser using anew treatment approach. The Sharplan 40C CO2 Feather Touchlaser was programmed with a circular scanning pattern and used just for the shoulders of the wrinkles. A final laser pass was performed with the same program over the entire lower eyelid skin surface, excluding the outer lateral portion (e.g. a truncated triangle-like area),corresponding to the lateral canthus. Only a single laser pass was delivered to the lateral canthal triangle to avoid widening the lateral opening of the eyelid, which might lead to the potential complications of scleral show and ectropion. When the area of the crows' feet is to be treated, three passes on the skin of this entire lateral orbital surface are completed by moving laterally and upward toward the hairline. Patients examined on days 1, 7, 15, 30, 60, and one year after laser resurfacing showed good results. At two months after treatment, the clinical improvement was rated by the patient and physician as being "very good" in 81 of the 85 patients reviewed. These patients underwent laser resurfacing without complications. The proposed technique of periocular resurfacing prevents complications of scleral show and laxity in the lateral eyelid opening and even ectropion, because treatment conforms to the osseo-muscular anatomical relationship of eyelid structures.}, }
@article {pmid10758330, year = {2000}, author = {Dogan, N and Leybovich, LB and Sethi, A and Krasin, M and Emami, B}, title = {A modified method of planning and delivery for dynamic multileaf collimator intensity-modulated radiation therapy.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {47}, number = {1}, pages = {241-245}, doi = {10.1016/s0360-3016(99)00557-x}, pmid = {10758330}, issn = {0360-3016}, mesh = {*Particle Accelerators ; *Phantoms, Imaging ; Physical Phenomena ; Physics ; *Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/*instrumentation/standards ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To develop a modified planning and delivery technique that reduces dose nonuniformity for tomographic delivery of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: The NOMOS-CORVUS system delivers IMRT in a tomographic paradigm. This type of delivery is prone to create multiple dose nonuniformity regions at the arc abutment regions. The modified technique was based on the cyclical behavior of arc positions as a function of a target length. With the modified technique, two plans are developed for the same patient, one with the original target and the second with a slightly increased target length and the abutment regions shifted by approximately 5 mm compared to the first plan. Each plan is designed to deliver half of the target prescription dose delivered on alternate days, resulting in periodic shifts of abutment regions. This method was experimentally tested in phantoms with and without intentionally introduced errors in couch indexing.<br><br>RESULTS: With the modified technique, the degree of dose nonuniformity was reduced. For example, with 1 mm error in couch indexing, the degree of dose nonuniformity changed from approximately 25% to approximately 12%.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Use of the modified technique reduces dose nonuniformity due to periodic shifts of abutment regions during treatment delivery.}, }
@article {pmid10743416, year = {1999}, author = {Crockard, A and Briggs, N}, title = {The Raven Department of Education: a strategic perspective.}, journal = {Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England}, volume = {81}, number = {6 Suppl}, pages = {292-293}, pmid = {10743416}, issn = {0035-8843}, mesh = {Curriculum ; *Education, Medical, Continuing ; General Surgery/*education ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid10730973, year = {2000}, author = {Xing, L and Chen, Y and Luxton, G and Li, JG and Boyer, AL}, title = {Monitor unit calculation for an intensity modulated photon field by a simple scatter-summation algorithm.}, journal = {Physics in medicine and biology}, volume = {45}, number = {3}, pages = {N1-7}, doi = {10.1088/0031-9155/45/3/401}, pmid = {10730973}, issn = {0031-9155}, support = {CA43840/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Algorithms ; Brain Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Head and Neck Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Humans ; Liver Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Male ; Models, Statistical ; Phantoms, Imaging ; *Photons ; Prostatic Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; *Scattering, Radiation ; }, abstract = {An important issue in intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) is the verification of the monitor unit (MU) calculation of the planning system using an independent procedure. Because of the intensity modulation and the dynamic nature of the delivery process, the problem becomes much more involved than that in conventional radiation therapy. In this work, a closed formula for MU calculation is derived. The approach is independent of the specific form of leaf sequence algorithms. It is straightforward to implement the procedure using a simple computer program. The approach is illustrated by a simplified example and is demonstrated by a few CORVUS (NOMOS Corporation, Sewickley, PA) treatment plans. The results indicate that it is robust and suitable for IMRT MU verification.}, }
@article {pmid10722223, year = {2000}, author = {Hunt, GR}, title = {Human-like, population-level specialization in the manufacture of pandanus tools by New Caledonian crows Corvus moneduloides.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {267}, number = {1441}, pages = {403-413}, pmid = {10722223}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Biological Evolution ; Humans ; Models, Biological ; Plant Leaves ; Population ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The main way of gaining insight into the behaviour and neurological faculties of our early ancestors is to study artefactual evidence for the making and use of tools, but this places severe constraints on what knowledge can be obtained. New Caledonian crows, however, offer a potential analogous model system for learning about these difficult-to-establish aspects of prehistoric humans. I found new evidence of human-like specialization in crows' manufacture of hook tools from pandanus leaves: functional lateralization or 'handedness' and the shaping of these tools to a rule system. These population-level features are unprecedented in the tool behaviour of free-living non-humans and provide the first demonstration that a population bias for handedness in tool-making and the shaping of tools to rule systems are not concomitant with symbolic thought and language. It is unknown how crows obtain their tool behaviour. Nevertheless, at the least they can be studied in order to learn about the neuropsychology associated with early specialized and/or advanced population features in tool-making such as hook use, handedness and the shaping of tools to rule systems.}, }
@article {pmid10701736, year = {2000}, author = {Mohan, DS and Kupelian, PA and Willoughby, TR}, title = {Short-course intensity-modulated radiotherapy for localized prostate cancer with daily transabdominal ultrasound localization of the prostate gland.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {46}, number = {3}, pages = {575-580}, doi = {10.1016/s0360-3016(99)00454-x}, pmid = {10701736}, issn = {0360-3016}, mesh = {Dose Fractionation, Radiation ; Feasibility Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Prostate/*diagnostic imaging ; Prostatic Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging/*radiotherapy ; Radiotherapy, Conformal ; Rectum/radiation effects ; Ultrasonography ; Urinary Bladder/radiation effects ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To present our initial observations on the clinical feasibility of the technique of short-course intensity-modulated radiotherapy (SCIM-RT) in the treatment of localized prostate cancer coupled with daily transabdominal ultrasound localization of the prostate. The proposed regimen consists of a hypofractionated course delivering 70.0 Gy in 28 fractions.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: The treatment data of the first 51 patients treated with SCIM-RT at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation are presented in this report. The technique consisted of intensity-modulated radiotherapy using 5 static fields (anterior, 2 laterals, and 2 anterior obliques). Inverse plans were generated by the Corvus treatment-planning system. The treatment delivery was performed with a Varian Dynamic Multileaf Collimator. The target was the prostate only in patients with low-risk disease (stage T1-T2, pretreatment PSA < or =10, and biopsy Gleason < or =6). The target was the prostate and seminal vesicles in patients with high-risk disease (stage T3 or pretreatment PSA > 10 or biopsy Gleason > or =7). In the Corvus planning system, the margins for the planning target volume (PTV) were 4 mm posteriorly, 8 mm laterally, and 5 mm in all other directions. A total of 70.0 Gy (mean prostate dose approximately 75 Gy) was prescribed in all cases at 2.5 Gy per fraction to be delivered in 28 fractions over 5 1/2 weeks. Prior to treatment delivery, the patients were minimally immobilized on the treatment table, only using lasers and skin marks. The location of the prostate gland was verified daily with the BAT transabdominal ultrasound system and patient position adjustments were performed accordingly. Fifty-one patients completed therapy between October 1998 and May 1999.<br><br>RESULTS: The dose was prescribed to an isodose line ranging from 82.0% to 90.0% (mean: 87.2%). The range of the individual prostate mean doses was 73.5 to 78.5 Gy (average: 75.3 Gy). The range of the maximum doses was 77.4 to 84.5 Gy (average: 80.2 Gy). The range of the minimum doses was 64.3 to 69.2 Gy (average: 67.5 Gy). The average time for the prostate position verification and alignment of the prostate using the BAT system was 5 minutes. The entire localization/alignment process was performed by the radiation therapists. The daily alignment images were automatically saved and reviewed by the radiation oncologist, a process similar to port film checks. The total treatment (beam-on) time was around 6 minutes using the 5 static intensity-modulated fields. The mean and standard deviation (SD) of bladder volumes irradiated to 50, 60, and 70 Gy were as follows: 24 +/- 11 cc, 16 +/- 8 cc, and 8 +/- 6 cc. The mean and SD of rectal volumes irradiated to 50, 60, and 70 Gy were as follows: 22 +/- 11 cc, 15 +/- 8 cc, and 7 +/- 5 cc. The RTOG acute bladder toxicity scores were as follows: 0 in 3 (6%), 1 in 38 (74%), and 2 in 10 (20%). The RTOG acute rectal toxicity scores for SCIM-RT cases were as follows: 0 in 10 (20%), 1 in 33 (65%), and 2 in 8 (16%). No Grade 3 or 4 acute toxicities were observed.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The delivery of our proposed hypofractionated-schedule SCIM-RT in combination with daily target localization/alignment with the BAT transabdominal ultrasound system is clinically feasible. It is an alternative method of dose escalation in the treatment of localized prostate cancer. The proposed schedule would significantly increase convenience to patients due to the decrease in overall treatment time. Preliminary acute toxicity results are extremely encouraging. Long-term follow-up is needed to assess late complications and treatment efficacy.}, }
@article {pmid10697827, year = {1999}, author = {Kalsi, G and Gamble, D and Curtis, D and Brynjolfsson, J and Sigmundsson, T and Butler, R and Read, T and Murphy, P and Petursson, H and Gurling, HM}, title = {No evidence for linkage of schizophrenia to DXS7 at chromosome Xp11.}, journal = {Psychiatric genetics}, volume = {9}, number = {4}, pages = {197-199}, doi = {10.1097/00041444-199912000-00006}, pmid = {10697827}, issn = {0955-8829}, mesh = {Chromosome Mapping ; *Chromosomes, Human, Pair 11 ; Female ; *Genetic Linkage ; Genetic Markers ; Humans ; Iceland ; Lod Score ; Male ; Pedigree ; Schizophrenia/*genetics ; Statistics, Nonparametric ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {There have been claims that a gene on the X chromosome may contribute to susceptibility to schizophrenia. Crow (1988) initially proposed that such a gene might lie in the pseudoautosomal region, but when evidence that weakened this hypothesis accumulated, he proposed that a susceptibility locus might be present elsewhere on the sex chromosomes instead. DeLisi et al. (1994) found a small nonsignificant positive lod score between the marker DXS7 and schizophrenia, but other failed to replicate this finding. Another study reported by Crow and DeLisi's group was also weakly positive for this marker (Dann et al., 1997). This locus was then investigated in a collaborative study by Laval et al. (1997), which produced a nonparametric lod score of 2.44. Using a sample of 17 pedigrees from Britain and Iceland, we have also tested the hypothesis of linkage between DXS7 and schizophrenia. The 17 families were selected from a larger sample on the basis of an absence of male-to-male transmission for schizophrenia. These families were originally selected for having multiple cases of schizophrenia within them and for having no cases of bipolar affective disorder. We genotyped subjects for a marker at DXS7 and performed classical lod score and model-free linkage analysis using broad and narrow definitions of affection with schizophrenia. We found strongly negative lod scores and no evidence for linkage using model-free analysis. Therefore, this study does not support the hypothesis of linkage of schizophrenia to DXS7, and the evidence for a susceptibility locus on this part of the X chromosome is weakened.}, }
@article {pmid10684092, year = {1998}, author = {Wang, H and Zhao, Y and Li, Y and Fan, Y}, title = {[Improving the bonding strength of castable ceramic crowns].}, journal = {Hua xi yi ke da xue xue bao = Journal of West China University of Medical Sciences = Huaxi yike daxue xuebao}, volume = {29}, number = {3}, pages = {278-280}, pmid = {10684092}, issn = {0257-7712}, mesh = {*Crowns ; Dental Bonding ; *Dental Porcelain ; *Dentin-Bonding Agents ; Humans ; Molar ; Tensile Strength ; }, abstract = {To study the influence of bonding agent on fracture strength of Plat-II castable ceramic crowns bonded to molars, we tested the specimens in vitro with Panavia 21 resin bonding agent and porcelite dual cure cement. The results showed that the fracture loading (845.8 +/- 137.1 N) of crowns bonded with Panavia 21 bonding agent was higher than that (534.0 +/- 58.7 N) of crows bonded with porcelite dual cure cement. The difference between the two agents was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The crowns bonded with Panavia 21 agent had higher strength than bite forces. These suggest that costable ceramic crowns could be bonded with Panavia 21 resin agent in clinical practice.}, }
@article {pmid10682246, year = {1999}, author = {Pearson, JT and Tazawa, H}, title = {Development of cardiac rhythms in altricial avian embryos.}, journal = {Comparative biochemistry and physiology. Part A, Molecular &amp; integrative physiology}, volume = {124}, number = {4}, pages = {475-482}, doi = {10.1016/s1095-6433(99)00140-3}, pmid = {10682246}, issn = {1095-6433}, mesh = {Animals ; Ballistocardiography ; Body Constitution/physiology ; Chick Embryo/*physiology ; Electrocardiography ; Heart/*embryology/*physiology ; Heart Rate/*physiology ; Parakeets ; Songbirds ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Mean heart rate (MHR) was determined during incubation and in hatchlings of 14 altricial avian species to investigate (1) if there is a common developmental pattern of heart rate in altricial embryos and (2) if heart rate changes during incubation are correlated with changes in embryonic growth rate. On the basis of normalized incubation MHR increased approximately linearly in 12 of 14 species from as early as 30-40% of incubation to that of pipped embryos. The MHR of hatchlings was equal to or higher than that of pipped embryos in seven species. Passerine embryos and hatchlings maintained higher MHR in comparison to parrots of similar egg mass, which may reflect phylogenetic differences in development. Embryonic MHR increased at a higher rate while embryonic growth rates were highest during the first 40% of incubation in tit, budgerigar and crow embryos than during subsequent development when relative growth rates decreased. MHR became independent of yolk-free wet mass at a smaller fraction of hatchling mass in budgerigar and crow than in the tit, suggesting that MHR is more likely to increase continuously after 40% of incubation in small altricial species than larger species.}, }
@article {pmid10661909, year = {2000}, author = {Holmes, LB and Rosenberger, PB and Harvey, EA and Khoshbin, S and Ryan, L}, title = {Intelligence and physical features of children of women with epilepsy.}, journal = {Teratology}, volume = {61}, number = {3}, pages = {196-202}, doi = {10.1002/(SICI)1096-9926(200003)61:3&lt;196::AID-TERA7&gt;3.0.CO;2-T}, pmid = {10661909}, issn = {0040-3709}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Anthropometry ; Body Height/*physiology ; Child ; Cognition/physiology ; Data Interpretation, Statistical ; Epilepsy/*physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*physiology ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Complications/physiopathology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {The teratogenicity of maternal epilepsy has been attributed to several factors, including the antiepileptic drugs taken to prevent seizures during pregnancy, the occurrence of seizures during pregnancy, and the factors in the mother that caused her to have epilepsy. We have addressed the hypothesis that the children of women who have a history of epilepsy (seizure history), but who took no antiepileptic drugs (AED) and had no tonic-clonic seizures in pregnancy, have an increased risk of malformations and diminished intelligence. The frequency of cognitive dysfunction was determined in 57 seizure history and 57 matched control children aged 6-l6 years. The masked evaluation of the children included a physical and neurologic examination and testing with the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R) and a systematic physical examination for the features of the fetal AED syndrome. The evaluation of both parents of each child included a test of reasoning (Ravens Progressive Matrix) and a physical examination. There were no differences between the two groups of children in either IQ scores or physical features; none of the seizure history children was judged to have the "anticonvulsant face" or digit hypoplasia. This study had 80% power to rule out a difference of seven or more IQ points between the two groups, based on a two-sided test at a 5% level of significance. Our confidence in concluding that there was no difference between seizure history and control infants was strengthened by the fact that no statistically significant differences were observed with respect to multiple outcomes, including eight related measures of intelligence. Thirty (53%) of the seizure history mothers resumed taking AED after the birth of the child we evaluated. Additional studies are needed to address the teratogenicity of the antiepileptic drugs as monotherapy.}, }
@article {pmid10635111, year = {1999}, author = {Lindeboom, J and Smits, CH and Smit, JH and Jonker, C}, title = {[Normal values for a short form of the Raven Colored Progressive Matrices].}, journal = {Tijdschrift voor gerontologie en geriatrie}, volume = {30}, number = {6}, pages = {249-255}, pmid = {10635111}, issn = {0167-9228}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Aged/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*psychology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Netherlands/epidemiology ; Population Surveillance ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales/*standards ; Psychometrics ; Reference Values ; Reproducibility of Results ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {Psychometric data are presented for the Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM), shortened to series A and B. The data were derived from a sample of 2791 persons aged 55 to 85 years. Six 5-year age strata were equally represented, as well as both sexes. The distribution of educational attainment was representative for the elderly population. Norms were stratified for age and education; gender differences were too small to necessitate separate norms. Analysis of reliability according to Mokken's IRT-model indicated modest scalability, but high internal consistency. A loss of 2 to 4 points at retest (depending on personal characteristics) is interpretable as a loss of capacity. Ample attention is paid to qualitative aspects of test performance, but it is concluded that error analysis is mainly useful to def1p4 positional preferences.}, }
@article {pmid10629976, year = {1999}, author = {Berger, J}, title = {Anthropogenic extinction of top carnivores and interspecific animal behaviour: implications of the rapid decoupling of a web involving wolves, bears, moose and ravens.}, journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences}, volume = {266}, number = {1435}, pages = {2261-2267}, doi = {10.1098/rspb.1999.0917}, pmid = {10629976}, issn = {0962-8452}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Birds ; Carnivora/*psychology ; Deer/*psychology ; North America ; *Statistical Distributions ; Ursidae/psychology ; Wolves/psychology ; }, abstract = {The recent extinction of grizzly bears (Ursus arctos) and wolves (Canis lupus) by humans from 95-99% of the contiguous USA and Mexico in less than 100 years has resulted in dramatically altered and expanded prey communities. Such rampant ecological change and putative ecological instability has not occurred in North American northern boreal zones. This geographical variation in the loss of large carnivores as a consequence of anthropogenic disturbance offers opportunities for examining the potential consequences of extinction on subtle but important ecological patterns involving behaviour and interspecific ecological interactions. In Alaska, where scavengers and large carnivores are associated with carcasses, field experiments involving sound playback simulations have demonstrated that at least one prey species, moose (Alces alces), is sensitive to the vocalizations of ravens (Corvus corax) and may rely on their cues to avoid predation. However, a similar relationship is absent on a predator-free island in Alaska's Cook Inlet and at two sites in the Jackson Hole region of the Rocky Mountains (USA) where grizzly bears and wolves have been extinct for 50-70 years. While prior study of birds and mammals has demonstrated that prey may retain predator recognition capabilities for thousands of years even after predation as a selective force has been relaxed, the results presented here establish that a desensitization in interspecific responsiveness can also occur in less than ten generations. These results affirm (i) a rapid decoupling in behaviour involving prey and scavengers as a consequence of anthropogenic-caused predator-prey disequilibriums, and (ii) subtle, community-level modifications in terrestrial ecosystems where large carnivores no longer exist. If knowledge about ecological and behavioural processes in extant systems is to be enhanced, the potential effects of recently extinct carnivores must be incorporated into current programmes.}, }
@article {pmid11126751, year = {2000}, author = {Enomoto, T and Nakao, C and Ohyama, H}, title = {Regulation of glycolysis during acclimation of scallops (Patinopecten yessoensis Jay) to anaerobiosis.}, journal = {Comparative biochemistry and physiology. Part B, Biochemistry &amp; molecular biology}, volume = {127}, number = {1}, pages = {45-52}, doi = {10.1016/s0305-0491(00)00235-2}, pmid = {11126751}, issn = {1096-4959}, mesh = {Adenosine Triphosphate/metabolism ; Animals ; Arginine/analogs &amp; derivatives/metabolism ; Fermentation ; Fructosediphosphates/metabolism ; Fructosephosphates/metabolism ; Glucose-6-Phosphate/metabolism ; *Glycolysis ; *Hypoxia ; Mollusca/*metabolism/*physiology ; Oxygen/*metabolism ; Oxygen Consumption ; Phosphofructokinase-1/metabolism ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Some glycolytic metabolites in the adductor muscle were measured after transfer of scallops from aerobic to anaerobic saltwater for 12 h. The level of octopine increased gradually during the initial 3 h incubation, and thereafter the level increased rapidly up to 12 h. The ATP level also did not show any significant change for the initial 3 h, and then decreased rapidly. The fructose 2,6-biphosphate (Fru 2,6-BP) level increased drastically during the initial 3 h incubation, but thereafter the level did not show any significant change up to 12 h. In the short-term effects of anaerobiosis for 90 min, the level of fructose 6-phosphate (Fru 6-P) increased just after transfer to anaerobiosis, and then its level decreased. In contrast, the fructose 1,6-biphosphate (Fru 1,6-BP) level increased greatly, at the time when both glucose 6-phosphate (Glc 6-P) and Fru 6-P decreased. The Fru 2,6-BP level did not any significant change during the initial 15 min incubation, but thereafter the level increased gradually up to 90 min. Scallop 6-phosphofructo 1-kinase (EC 2.7.1.11) (PFK1) was strongly activated by 1 microM Fru 2,6-BP when 0.2 mM Fru 6-P was used as a substrate, but the activity was not affected at 5 mM Fru 6-P. In view of these results, the regulation mechanism of glycolysis is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid10627794, year = {1999}, author = {Highley, JR and McDonald, B and Walker, MA and Esiri, MM and Crow, TJ}, title = {Schizophrenia and temporal lobe asymmetry. A post-mortem stereological study of tissue volume.}, journal = {The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science}, volume = {175}, number = {}, pages = {127-134}, doi = {10.1192/bjp.175.2.127}, pmid = {10627794}, issn = {0007-1250}, mesh = {Adult ; Age of Onset ; Aged ; Autopsy ; Brain Diseases/*pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Parahippocampal Gyrus/pathology ; Schizophrenia/*pathology ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Sex Distribution ; Temporal Lobe/*pathology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: A previous report by Crow of a left-sided increase in temporal horn volume in schizophrenia implies a left-sided loss of tissue.<br><br>AIMS: To elucidate the structural nature of schizophrenia.<br><br>METHOD: The volume of grey matter in the temporal pole and inferior, middle and superior temporal gyri was measured, in addition to the total volume of grey and white matter, in the temporal lobes of the brains of 29 patients with schizophrenia and 27 controls.<br><br>RESULTS: We found a significant left-sided reduction in the superior temporal gyrus in both males and females with schizophrenia, which was related to increasing age of onset in the males. The total volume of temporal lobe grey and white matter was also significantly reduced. Although being more marked on the left than the right, the lateralisation for these total grey and white measures (by contrast with the superior temporal gyrus alone) did not attain formal statistical significance.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Confirmation of a lateralised reduction in the superior temporal gyrus, which is differentially related to age of onset according to gender, adds to evidence that the changes in schizophrenia are in systems that are lateralised. The findings implicate language as the relevant function.}, }
@article {pmid10626949, year = {2000}, author = {Sampath, P and Long, DM and Brem, H}, title = {The Hunterian Neurosurgical Laboratory: the first 100 years of neurosurgical research.}, journal = {Neurosurgery}, volume = {46}, number = {1}, pages = {184-94; discussion 194-5}, pmid = {10626949}, issn = {0148-396X}, support = {CA09574/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Baltimore ; History, 18th Century ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Neurosurgery/*history ; Research/history ; United States ; }, abstract = {Modern neurosurgery has long had a strong laboratory foundation, and much of this tradition can be traced to the Hunterian Neurosurgical Laboratory of the Johns Hopkins Hospital. Founded with the basic goals of investigating the causes and symptoms of disease and establishing the crucial role that surgeons may play in the treatment of disease, the Hunterian laboratory has adhered to these tenets, despite the dramatic changes in neurosurgery that have occurred in the last 100 years. Named for the famous English surgeon John Hunter (1728-1793), the Hunterian laboratory was conceived by William Welch and William Halsted as a special laboratory for experimental work in surgery and pathology. In 1904, Harvey Cushing was appointed by Halsted to direct the laboratory. With the three primary goals of student education, veterinary surgery that stressed surgical techniques, and meticulous surgical and laboratory record-keeping, the laboratory was quite productive, introducing the use of physiological saline solutions, describing the anatomic features and function of the pituitary gland, and establishing the field of endocrinology. In addition, the original development of hanging drop tissue culture, fundamental investigations into cerebrospinal fluid, and countless contributions to otolaryngology by Samuel Crowe all occurred during this "crucible" period. In 1912, Cushing was succeeded by Walter Dandy, whose work on experimental hydrocephalus and cerebrospinal fluid circulation led to the development of pneumoencephalography. The early days of neurosurgery evolved with close ties to general surgery, and so did the Hunterian laboratory. After Dandy began devoting his time to clinical work, general surgeons (first Jay McLean and then, in 1922, Ferdinand Lee) became the directors of the laboratory. Between 1928 and 1942, more than 150 original articles were issued from the Hunterian laboratory; these articles described significant advances in surgery, including pioneering research on calcium metabolism by William MacCallum and Carl Voegtlin and seminal preclinical work by Alfred Blalock and Vivian Thomas that led to the famous "blue baby" operation in 1944. With the introduction of the operating microscope in the 1950s, much of the focus in neurosurgical science shifted from the laboratory to the operating room. The old Hunterian building was demolished in 1956. The Hunterian laboratory for surgical and pathological research was rebuilt on its original site in 1987, and the Hunterian Neurosurgical Laboratory was reestablished in 1991, with a focus on novel treatments for brain tumors. The strong tradition of performing basic research with clinical relevance has continued.}, }
@article {pmid10620932, year = {1999}, author = {Booth, C}, title = {Cosmetic surgery. Light makes right for everything from crow's-feet to blotchy skin, lasers are the cosmetic quick fix of the moment.}, journal = {Time}, volume = {154}, number = {15}, pages = {66, 69-70}, pmid = {10620932}, issn = {0040-781X}, mesh = {Cicatrix/surgery ; Hair Removal/methods ; *Health Education ; Humans ; Laser Therapy ; Surgery, Plastic/*methods ; Tooth Discoloration/therapy ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid10619279, year = {1999}, author = {Croona, C and Kihlgren, M and Lundberg, S and Eeg-Olofsson, O and Eeg-Olofsson, KE}, title = {Neuropsychological findings in children with benign childhood epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes.}, journal = {Developmental medicine and child neurology}, volume = {41}, number = {12}, pages = {813-818}, doi = {10.1017/s0012162299001620}, pmid = {10619279}, issn = {0012-1622}, mesh = {Achievement ; Adolescent ; Child ; Child Behavior Disorders/complications/diagnosis ; Cognition Disorders/complications/diagnosis ; Electroencephalography ; Epilepsy, Rolandic/complications/*diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving ; Severity of Illness Index ; Speech Disorders/complications/diagnosis ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {Benign childhood epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (BCECTS) is a well-known idiopathic age- and localization-related epileptic syndrome with characteristic clinical and EEG manifestations. Due to the reported benign evolution of this epilepsy syndrome, neuropsychological assessment has been considered unnecessary. However, the benign nature of BCECTS has recently been challenged: verbal dysfunction as well as impaired visuomotor coordination, specific learning disabilities, and attention deficit have been noticed. These findings prompted this research study in which all children with BCECTS attending our epilepsy clinic underwent neuropsychological assessment. Seventeen children (10 boys and seven girls) aged 7 to 14 years were investigated with a neuropsychological test battery focusing on immediate and delayed recall of auditory-verbal and visual material, verbal fluency, problem-solving ability, and visuospatial constructional ability. Raven's coloured matrices and questionnaires regarding school functioning and behaviour were also administered. The children were matched with control subjects for age, sex, and school. Children with BCECTS had significantly lower scores than their control subject partners on the neuropsychological items. Intellectual abilities did not differ and neither did school functioning or behaviour according to teachers. Parents, however, recognized greater difficulties with concentration, temperament, and impulsiveness in children with BCECTS.}, }
@article {pmid10608569, year = {1999}, author = {Templeton, JJ and Kamil, AC and Balda, RP}, title = {Sociality and social learning in two species of corvids: the pinyon jay (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) and the Clark's nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana).}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {113}, number = {4}, pages = {450-455}, doi = {10.1037/0735-7036.113.4.450}, pmid = {10608569}, issn = {0735-7036}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; *Appetitive Behavior ; Attention ; *Birds ; Discrimination, Psychological ; *Learning ; *Social Behavior ; *Social Facilitation ; Transfer, Psychology ; }, abstract = {The hypothesis that social learning is an adaptive specialization for social living predicts that social species should learn better socially than they do individually, but that nonsocial species should not exhibit a similar enhancement of performance under social learning conditions. The authors compared individual and social learning abilities in 2 corvid species: the highly social pinyon jay (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) and the less social Clark's nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana). The birds were tested on 2 different tasks under individual and social learning conditions. Half learned a motor task individually and a discrimination task socially; the other half learned the motor task socially and the discrimination task individually. Pinyon jays learned faster socially than they did individually, but nutcrackers performed equally well under both learning conditions. Results support the hypothesis that social learning is an adaptive specialization for social living in pinyon jays.}, }
@article {pmid10608564, year = {1999}, author = {Clayton, NS and Dickinson, A}, title = {Scrub jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) remember the relative time of caching as well as the location and content of their caches.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {113}, number = {4}, pages = {403-416}, doi = {10.1037/0735-7036.113.4.403}, pmid = {10608564}, issn = {0735-7036}, support = {NS35465-03/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Appetitive Behavior ; Birds ; *Food ; *Memory ; *Mental Processes ; }, abstract = {Two experiments examined whether food-storing scrub jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) could remember when they cached particular food items as well as what they cached and where. In Experiment 1, scrub jays cached and recovered perishable "wax worms" (wax moth larvae) and nonperishable peanuts in 2 visuospatially distinct and trial-unique trays. The birds searched preferentially for fresh wax worms if they had cached them 4 hr earlier but rapidly learned to search for peanuts and avoid decayed wax worms that had been cached 124 hr previously. This pattern also was observed when the food items were removed before recovery on test trials. These results were replicated in Experiment 2 using a procedure in which both types of food were cached in different sides of the same caching tray: On the basis of a single, trial-unique experience, scrub jays could remember the relative time of caching as well as what type of food was cached in each cache site.}, }
@article {pmid10605625, year = {1999}, author = {Hwa, V and Oh, Y and Rosenfeld, RG}, title = {The insulin-like growth factor-binding protein (IGFBP) superfamily.}, journal = {Endocrine reviews}, volume = {20}, number = {6}, pages = {761-787}, doi = {10.1210/edrv.20.6.0382}, pmid = {10605625}, issn = {0163-769X}, support = {CA-58110/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; DK-51513/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Evolution, Molecular ; Humans ; *Insulin-Like Growth Factor Binding Proteins ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; }, abstract = {Over the last decade, the concept of an IGFBP family has been well accepted, based on structural similarities and on functional abilities to bind IGFs with high affinities. The existence of other potential IGFBPs was left open. The discovery of proteins with N-terminal domains bearing striking structural similarities to the N terminus of the IGFBPs, and with reduced, but demonstrable, affinity for IGFs, raised the question of whether these proteins were "new" IGFBPs (22, 23, 217). The N-terminal domain had been uniquely associated with the IGFBPs and has long been considered to be critical for IGF binding. No other function has been confirmed for this domain to date. Thus, the presence of this important IGFBP domain in the N terminus of other proteins must be considered significant. Although these other proteins appear capable of binding IGF, their relatively low affinity and the fact that their major biological actions are likely to not directly involve the IGF peptides suggest that they probably should not be classified within the IGFBP family as provisionally proposed (22, 23). The conservation of this single domain, so critical to high-affinity binding of IGF by the six IGFBPs, in all of the IGFBP-rPs, as well, speaks to its biological importance. Historically, and perhaps, functionally, this has led to the designation of an "IGFBP superfamily". The classification and nomenclature for the IGFBP superfamily, are, of course, arbitrary; what is ultimately relevant is the underlying biology, much of which still remains to be deciphered. The nomenclature for the IGFBP related proteins was derived from a consensus of researchers working in the IGFBP field (52). Obviously, a more general consensus on nomenclature, involving all groups working on each IGFBP-rP, has yet to be reached. Further understanding of the biological functions of each protein should help resolve the nomenclature dilemma. For the present, redesignating these proteins IGFBP-rPs simplifies the multiple names already associated with each IGFBP related protein, and reinforces the concept of a relationship with the IGFBPs. Beyond the N-terminal domain, there is a lack of structural similarity between the IGFBP-rPs and IGFBPs. The C-terminal domains do share similarities to other internal domains found in numerous other proteins. For example, the similarity of the IGFBP C terminus to the thyroglobulin type-I domain shows that the IGFBPs are also structurally related to numerous other proteins carrying the same domain (87). Interestingly, the functions of the different C-terminal domains in members of the IGFBP superfamily include interactions with the cell surface or ECM, suggesting that, even if they share little sequence similarities, the C-terminal domains may be functionally related. The evolutionary conservation of the N-terminal domain and functional studies support the notion that IGFBPs and IGFBP-rPs together form an IGFBP superfamily. A superfamily delineates between closely related (classified as a family) and distantly related proteins. The IGFBP superfamily is therefore composed of distantly related families. The modular nature of the constituents of the IGFBP superfamily, particularly their preservation of an highly conserved N-terminal domain, seems best explained by the process of exon shuffling of an ancestral gene encoding this domain. Over the course of evolution, some members evolved into high-affinity IGF binders and others into low-affinity IGF binders, thereby conferring on the IGFBP superfamily the ability to influence cell growth by both IGF-dependent and IGF-independent means (Fig. 10). A final word, from Stephen Jay Gould (218): "But classifications are not passive ordering devices in a world objectively divided into obvious categories. Taxonomies are human decisions imposed upon nature--theories about the causes of nature's order. The chronicle of historical changes in classification provides our finest insight into conceptual revolutions}, }
@article {pmid10600742, year = {1999}, author = {Lanciotti, RS and Roehrig, JT and Deubel, V and Smith, J and Parker, M and Steele, K and Crise, B and Volpe, KE and Crabtree, MB and Scherret, JH and Hall, RA and MacKenzie, JS and Cropp, CB and Panigrahy, B and Ostlund, E and Schmitt, B and Malkinson, M and Banet, C and Weissman, J and Komar, N and Savage, HM and Stone, W and McNamara, T and Gubler, DJ}, title = {Origin of the West Nile virus responsible for an outbreak of encephalitis in the northeastern United States.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {286}, number = {5448}, pages = {2333-2337}, doi = {10.1126/science.286.5448.2333}, pmid = {10600742}, issn = {0036-8075}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/immunology ; Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; Base Sequence ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; Birds/virology ; *Disease Outbreaks ; Encephalitis Viruses, Japanese/classification/genetics ; Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect ; Genome, Viral ; Humans ; Molecular Sequence Data ; New England/epidemiology ; New York City/epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; Songbirds/virology ; Viral Envelope Proteins/chemistry/genetics/immunology ; West Nile Fever/*epidemiology/veterinary/*virology ; West Nile virus/*classification/*genetics/immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {In late summer 1999, an outbreak of human encephalitis occurred in the northeastern United States that was concurrent with extensive mortality in crows (Corvus species) as well as the deaths of several exotic birds at a zoological park in the same area. Complete genome sequencing of a flavivirus isolated from the brain of a dead Chilean flamingo (Phoenicopterus chilensis), together with partial sequence analysis of envelope glycoprotein (E-glycoprotein) genes amplified from several other species including mosquitoes and two fatal human cases, revealed that West Nile (WN) virus circulated in natural transmission cycles and was responsible for the human disease. Antigenic mapping with E-glycoprotein-specific monoclonal antibodies and E-glycoprotein phylogenetic analysis confirmed these viruses as WN. This North American WN virus was most closely related to a WN virus isolated from a dead goose in Israel in 1998.}, }
@article {pmid10600741, year = {1999}, author = {Anderson, JF and Andreadis, TG and Vossbrinck, CR and Tirrell, S and Wakem, EM and French, RA and Garmendia, AE and Van Kruiningen, HJ}, title = {Isolation of West Nile virus from mosquitoes, crows, and a Cooper's hawk in Connecticut.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {286}, number = {5448}, pages = {2331-2333}, doi = {10.1126/science.286.5448.2331}, pmid = {10600741}, issn = {0036-8075}, support = {P01-AI-30548/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aedes/virology ; Animals ; Base Sequence ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*virology ; Brain/*virology ; Connecticut/epidemiology ; Culex/virology ; Culicidae/*virology ; Genome, Viral ; Humans ; Insect Vectors/*virology ; Phylogeny ; Raptors/virology ; Romania ; Songbirds/virology ; West Nile Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary/virology ; West Nile virus/classification/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {West Nile (WN) virus, a mosquito-transmitted virus native to Africa, Asia, and Europe, was isolated from two species of mosquitoes, Culex pipiens and Aedes vexans, and from brain tissues of 28 American crows, Corvus brachyrhynchos, and one Cooper's hawk, Accipiter cooperii, in Connecticut. A portion of the genome of virus isolates from four different hosts was sequenced and analyzed by comparative phylogenetic analysis. Our isolates from Connecticut were similar to one another and most closely related to two WN isolates from Romania (2.8 and 3.6 percent difference). If established in North America, WN virus will likely have severe effects on human health and on the health of populations of birds.}, }
@article {pmid10596729, year = {1999}, author = {Mano, T and Mori, K and Sawai, Y and Oda, N and Tugawa, T and Nakano, I and Watanabe, F and Hamada, M and Nakai, A and Yamamoto, H and Harada, N and Nagasaka, A and Itoh, M}, title = {Accelerated conversion of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate to estrogen in a patient with Crow-Fukase syndrome and diabetes mellitus.}, journal = {Endocrine research}, volume = {25}, number = {3-4}, pages = {371-380}, doi = {10.1080/07435809909066154}, pmid = {10596729}, issn = {0743-5800}, mesh = {Aromatase/genetics/metabolism ; Blood Glucose/metabolism ; Dehydroepiandrosterone/blood ; Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate/*blood ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/blood/complications/*diagnosis ; Estradiol/blood ; Estrogens/*blood ; Estrone/blood ; Glycated Hemoglobin/metabolism ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/blood/complications/*diagnosis ; Prednisolone/therapeutic use ; RNA, Messenger/analysis ; Testosterone/blood ; }, abstract = {About 28% of patients with the Crow-Fukase syndrome exhibit glucose intolerance which may be induced by low serum levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). We report a patient with the Crow-Fukase syndrome who exhibited non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) worsened prior to admission. He received the DHEA sulfate (DHEA-S) infusion test to evaluate aromatase activity. This patient exhibited an increase in aromatase activity measured by the conversion of the intravenously loaded DHEA-S to estrogen, and low serum levels of DHEA and DHEA-S. These abnormalities returned to nearly normal during the administration of prednisolone, 60 mg per day. No adverse effect on his diabetes was observed during the corticosteroid treatment. Five control patients with diabetes but without the Crow-Fukase syndrome showed no increase in the conversion of DHEA-S to estrogen, which suggests that aromatase activity is normal in diabetes. The increase in aromatase activity in our patient may have led to a low serum concentration of DHEA that in turn caused glucose intolerance and a deterioration of the diabetes prior to admission. Glucocorticoid therapy may be beneficial in Crow-Fukase syndrome to improve the distorted metabolism of DHEA with no adverse effect on the diabetes.}, }
@article {pmid10590833, year = {1999}, author = {McKinzey, RK and Podd, MH and Krehbiel, MA and Raven, J}, title = {Detection of malingering on Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices: a cross-validation.}, journal = {The British journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {38}, number = {4}, pages = {435-439}, doi = {10.1348/014466599162935}, pmid = {10590833}, issn = {0144-6657}, mesh = {Adult ; False Positive Reactions ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Malingering/*diagnosis/psychology ; Mental Disorders/diagnosis ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales/*standards ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {A formula for detecting faked Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices profiles was cross-validated on 46 experimental malingerers and 381 people from the standardization sample. The formula yielded a cross-validated 26% false-negative rate and a 5% false-positive rate.}, }
@article {pmid10577266, year = {1999}, author = {Giovagnoli, AR}, title = {Verbal semantic memory in temporal lobe epilepsy.}, journal = {Acta neurologica Scandinavica}, volume = {99}, number = {6}, pages = {334-339}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-0404.1999.tb07361.x}, pmid = {10577266}, issn = {0001-6314}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age of Onset ; Case-Control Studies ; Cognition Disorders/physiopathology ; Concept Formation/*physiology ; Epilepsy, Temporal Lobe/*physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory Disorders/classification/*physiopathology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Semantics ; Statistics as Topic ; Temporal Lobe/physiopathology ; Verbal Behavior/*physiology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) may determine memory difficulties not explained by episodic memory impairment. The present study was aimed to verify the presence of specific semantic memory dysfunctions in TLE and to explore their relations to epilepsy variables.<br><br>SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Forty-seven patients with lateralized temporal (n = 26) or extra-temporal lobe epilepsy (n = 21) and 23 healthy subjects were compared. Picture Naming and Pointing to a Picture were used to explore expressive and receptive vocabulary and the Semantic Questionnaire evaluated semantic judgment of verbally presented items. The Selective Reminding Procedure for word list learning and Story Recall were used to assess episodic memory. Spontaneous speech and the Token Test controlled for language disturbances, and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices were used to evaluate abstract reasoning ability.<br><br>RESULTS: Multivariate analysis of variance of test scores showed significant impairment of semantic memory in patients with left TLE compared to healthy controls, whereas episodic memory was impaired in left temporal and extra-temporal epilepsy (as measured by word learning) and all epilepsy groups (as measured by Story Recall). In the TLE groups, naming abilities were more compromised than single-word comprehension and semantic judgment - which were not significantly affected. No deficits in language abilities or in abstract reasoning were found in any patient group. Factor analysis of memory tests scores in the patients produced two factors, one semantic and the other episodic. Regression analysis revealed that the semantic factor was related to abstract reasoning, left hemisphere lateralization of seizures, and age of seizure onset; while the episodic factor was related to age.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Left TLE may determine significant verbal semantic memory compromise, maybe due to impaired access to the semantic-lexical storage. In non-aphasic epilepsy patients, comparison of performance on semantic and episodic memory tests may be useful for assessing the nature of memory failures, and may complement clinical and neurophysiological means for defining the epileptic center.}, }
@article {pmid10564596, year = {1999}, author = {Vleck, CM and Brown, JL}, title = {Testosterone and social and reproductive behaviour in Aphelocoma jays.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {58}, number = {5}, pages = {943-951}, doi = {10.1006/anbe.1999.1226}, pmid = {10564596}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {When there is a direct relationship between testosterone level and payoff in reproductive success through aggression, testosterone levels should be elevated. Elevated testosterone, however, has fitness costs, particularly a decreased tendency to display parental care. Thus the pattern of testosterone secretion in males should vary with the social and mating system. Western scrub-jays, Aphelocoma californica woodhouseii, form monogamous pairs on territories during the breeding season. Mexican jays, A. ultramarina, live in large, stable groups and up to five females within a group attempt nesting each spring. In both species, testosterone levels rose rapidly in March and peak levels did not differ. Elevated testosterone levels were only observed for about 3 weeks in the monogamous western scrub-jay, but were observed into May in Mexican jays, a reflection of prolonged opportunity for males to mate with multiple females and continual interaction with other competing males. In Mexican jays, nonbreeding yearlings had lower testosterone levels than all other age groups. Testosterone in males owning nests did not differ from that in other adult males, many of whom engage in extrapair fertilizations. Testosterone was elevated throughout the incubation phase, but was significantly lower when chicks were present in any nest in the group. Nearly all birds in the group fed all chicks. These observations support the hypothesis that testosterone is elevated when male-male competition is frequent and mating opportunities depend on the outcome of that competition, and testosterone is decreased when the necessity for parental or alloparental care would make its effects deleterious. Copyright 1999 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid10512655, year = {1999}, author = {Robert, M and Sorci, G and Møller, AP and Hochberg, ME and Pomiankowski, A and Pagel, M}, title = {Retaliatory cuckoos and the evolution of host resistance to brood parasites.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {58}, number = {4}, pages = {817-824}, doi = {10.1006/anbe.1999.1205}, pmid = {10512655}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {We present a dynamic model of the evolution of host resistance to avian brood parasites, when the latter can retaliate against hosts that reject parasitic eggs. In a verbal model, Zahavi (1979, American Naturalist, 113, 157-159) suggested that retaliatory cuckoos might prevent the evolution of host resistance by reducing the reproductive success of rejecter hosts (i.e. by destroying their eggs or nestlings). Here we develop a model based on the association between the great spotted cuckoo, Clamator glandarius, and its main host, the European magpie, Pica pica, because this is the only system that has provided supportive evidence, to date, for the existence of retaliatory behaviour. Our aims were (1) to derive the conditions for invasion of the retaliation strategy in a nonretaliatory parasite population and (2) to investigate the consequences of retaliation for the evolution of host defence. If we assume a cost of discrimination for rejecter hosts in the absence of parasitism, and a cost paid by a retaliator for monitoring nests, our model shows cyclical dynamics. There is no evolutionarily stable strategy, and populations of both hosts and parasites will cycle indefinitely, the period of the cycles depending on mutation and/or migration rate. A stable polymorphism of acceptors and rejecters occurs only when parasites are nonretaliators. The spread of retaliator parasites drives rejecter hosts to extinction. Copyright 1999 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid10574436, year = {1999}, author = {Krivolutski, DA and Lebedeva, NV and Shuktomova, II}, title = {Birds as objects in bioindication of radioactive pollution.}, journal = {Acta biologica Hungarica}, volume = {50}, number = {1-3}, pages = {145-160}, pmid = {10574436}, issn = {0236-5383}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Environmental Monitoring ; *Radiation Effects ; Radioactive Pollutants/*analysis ; }, abstract = {This article is a review the recent results of research in the accumulation of natural and artificial radionuclides in birds from Russia (Adigea, Krasnodar, Rostov, Astrahan and Moscow regions, Novaya Zemlya isles), Ukraine, Vietnam, Poland, Ethiophia and Mongolia after global precipitation and local pollution, such as in the East-Urals radioactive region and radioactive zones after the Chernobyl accident. Resident birds reflect local level of radionuclide contamination. The 90Sr concentration in the food of the Pied Flycatcher had a tendency to increase in dependent of age. The Common Jay and the Mallard were the most contaminated with 137Cs in the Bryansk region. The total content of various radio-isotopes of plutonium in bird bones from Southwest Russia were hundred and thousand times more, than in Mongolia. Activity levels in specimens from Ethiopia bear record to Ethiopia can notbe a "pure" control site in radioecological research and radioactive background since it does not significantly differ from Turkmenia and Mongolia.}, }
@article {pmid10555129, year = {1999}, author = {Fischbein, S and Guttman, R and Nathan, M}, title = {Genetic and environmental influences on pupil performances.}, journal = {Twin research : the official journal of the International Society for Twin Studies}, volume = {2}, number = {3}, pages = {183-195}, doi = {10.1375/136905299320565852}, pmid = {10555129}, issn = {1369-0523}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; *Cognition ; *Cross-Cultural Comparison ; Female ; Humans ; Israel ; Language Tests ; *Learning ; Male ; Mathematics ; Reading ; Rural Population ; Sex Characteristics ; Sweden ; Teaching/*methods ; *Twins ; Urban Population ; }, abstract = {The results presented in this paper are part of a current comparative study of genetic and environmental influences in three educational settings: Stockholm, Jerusalem and the Israeli kibbutz. We specifically wanted to investigate whether a more restrictive educational setting would decrease genetic influences. Here we report on comparisons of cognitive performance measures at several time points for twins/controls, boys/girls and within-pair similarity in MZ, DZ and controls. The tests used were the Raven Progressive Matrices, verbal, reading comprehension and arithmetic. The results show no differences between twins and controls, whilst gender differences seem to be smallest in the Stockholm sample and largest in Jerusalem. A pattern of genetic influences on cognitive performance was also clearly visible in Jerusalem. In Stockholm shared environmental influences at home and at school seemed even stronger than in the kibbutz. No consistent differences were found between tests or occasions.}, }
@article {pmid10544420, year = {1999}, author = {Blough, LK and Rittenhouse, RK and Dancer, J}, title = {Identification of gifted deaf children: a complex but critical educational process.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {89}, number = {1}, pages = {219-221}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1999.89.1.219}, pmid = {10544420}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Attitude ; Child ; Child, Gifted/*classification/*education ; Deafness/complications/*psychology/rehabilitation ; *Education, Special ; Humans ; Psychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Sign Language ; Teaching ; }, abstract = {11 deaf students in a large midwestern school for the deaf were divided into gifted and nongifted groups by ratings of teachers and school administrators. There were six subjects in the gifted group (3 boys and 3 girls) and five subjects in the comparison group (3 boys and 2 girls). There was no statistically significant difference between mean raw scores of the two groups on Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices. Also, teachers' rankings of the subjects identified as gifted did not correlate significantly with their Raven scores. Identification of gifted deaf students is too complex to be based only on teachers' ratings.}, }
@article {pmid10538950, year = {1999}, author = {Taylor, M and Bellandi, D and Kirchheimer, B}, title = {Jury convicts two in Columbia fraud case.}, journal = {Modern healthcare}, volume = {29}, number = {27}, pages = {4}, pmid = {10538950}, issn = {0160-7480}, mesh = {Chief Executive Officers, Hospital/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Florida ; Fraud/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Hospitals, Proprietary/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence/organization &amp; administration ; Multi-Institutional Systems/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/organization &amp; administration ; United States ; }, abstract = {Nearly three years after the federal government began a criminal investigation of Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corp. and its executives, a federal jury in Tampa, Fla., found Columbia financial executives Jay Jarrell and Robert Whiteside guilty of defrauding government health programs. A third executive, Michael Neeb, was acquitted in the case, and the jury couldn't reach a verdict on a fourth, Carl Lynn Dick.}, }
@article {pmid10536806, year = {1999}, author = {Kozlov, AA and Buzina, TS}, title = {[The psychological characteristics of patients with drug addictions].}, journal = {Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova}, volume = {99}, number = {10}, pages = {14-19}, pmid = {10536806}, issn = {1997-7298}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Chronic Disease ; Emotions ; Heroin Dependence/*psychology ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; MMPI/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Opioid-Related Disorders/*psychology ; *Opium ; Personality ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {The paper presents results of the examination of 70 patients with different forms of drug addiction (opium, heroin, pervitin addictions, including patients with polynarcomania). Psychologic tests were used to evaluate personal traits of the patients (MMPI variation), peculiarities of the emotional sphere (test of Lusher) and the intellectual level (Progressive Matrices of Raven). It was revealed that chronic drug dependence resulted in considerable disorders of personality--psychopathization and schizoidization. Intellectual abilities of the patients were on the low normal level.}, }
@article {pmid10522500, year = {1999}, author = {Traikovich, SS}, title = {Use of topical ascorbic acid and its effects on photodamaged skin topography.}, journal = {Archives of otolaryngology--head &amp; neck surgery}, volume = {125}, number = {10}, pages = {1091-1098}, doi = {10.1001/archotol.125.10.1091}, pmid = {10522500}, issn = {0886-4470}, mesh = {Administration, Topical ; Adult ; Aged ; Antioxidants/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Ascorbic Acid/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Skin/drug effects ; *Skin Aging/drug effects ; Sunlight/*adverse effects ; Treatment Outcome ; Ultraviolet Rays/adverse effects ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy of topical ascorbic acid application in treating mild to moderate photodamage of facial skin using an objective, computer-assisted image analysis of skin surface topography and subjective clinical, photographic, and patient self-appraisal questionnaires.<br><br>DESIGN: A 3-month, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled study.<br><br>SETTING: Facial plastic surgery private practice.<br><br>PATIENTS: Nineteen evaluable volunteer sample patients aged between 36 and 72 years with Fitzpatrick skin types I, II, and III who were in good physical and mental health with mild to moderately photodamaged facial skin were considered for analysis.<br><br>INTERVENTION: Coded, unmarked medications were randomly assigned to the left and right sides of each subject's face, one containing the active agent, topical ascorbic acid (Cellex-C high-potency serum; Cellex-C International, Toronto, Ontario), the other, the vehicle serum (Cellex-C International). Three drops (0.5 mL) of each formulation were applied daily to the randomly assigned hemifaces over the 3-month study period. Treatment assignments were not disclosed to subjects, clinicians, or personnel involved in analyzing skin replicas.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Specific clinical parameters were evaluated and graded on a 0- to 9-point scale (0, none; 1-3, mild; 4-6, moderate; and 7-9, severe). Reference photographs were used to standardize grading criteria. Overall investigator scores were compared with baseline and graded as excellent (much improved), good (improved), fair (slightly improved), no change, or worse. Patient self-appraisal questionnaires rated the degree of improvement (much improved, improved, slightly improved, no change, or worse) and reported adverse effects (burning, stinging, redness, peeling, dryness, discoloration, itching, and rash). Standard photographs were taken at baseline, including anteroposterior and left and right oblique views to facilitate subsequent clinical evaluations, and at the end of therapy for comparison. Optical profilometry analysis was performed on the skin surface replicas of the lateral canthal (crow's feet) region, comparing baseline to end-of-study specimens. Using this computer-based system, the resulting image was digitally analyzed, and numeric values were assigned to reflect surface features. The parameters obtained included Rz, Ra, and shadows. These values provided objective data that document pretreatment and posttreatment texture changes proportional to the degree of wrinkling, roughness, and other surface irregularities.<br><br>RESULTS: Optical profilometry image analysis demonstrated a statistically significant 73.7% improvement in the Ra and shadows north-south facial axis values with active treatment greater than vehicle control, as well as a trend for improvement in the Rz north-south facial axis parameter, showing a 68.4% greater improvement of active treatment vs vehicle control. Clinical assessment demonstrated significant improvement with active treatment greater than control for fine wrinkling, tactile roughness, coarse rhytids, skin laxity/tone, sallowness/yellowing, and overall features. Patient questionnaire results demonstrated statistically significant improvement overall, active treatment 84.2% greater than control. Photographic assessment demonstrated significant improvement, active treatment 57.9% greater than control.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: A 3-month daily regimen of topical ascorbic acid provided objective and subjective improvement in photodamaged facial skin. Skin replica optical profilometry is an objective method for quantification of the skin surface texture changes.}, }
@article {pmid10512030, year = {1999}, author = {Voronov, LN}, title = {[The characteristics of the morphological structure of the endbrain in the hooded crow (Corvus corone cornix L.) and in the rock dove (Columba livia) in relation to their development of elementary reasoning activities].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {49}, number = {4}, pages = {684-688}, pmid = {10512030}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Columbidae/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Mental Processes/*physiology ; Neurons/cytology/physiology ; Songbirds/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Telencephalon/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; }, abstract = {The number of neurons in the endbrain [correction of forebrain] of two avian species--carrion crows and rock pigeons--was assessed. It was shown that the higher development of reasoning activity of crows is associated with greater number of cells in evolutionary new fields of hyperstriatum and greater number of cell complexes than in pigeons.}, }
@article {pmid10507514, year = {1999}, author = {Crow, TJ}, title = {Commentary on Annett, Yeo et al., Klar, Saugstad and Orr: cerebral asymmetry, language and psychosis--the case for a Homo sapiens-specific sex-linked gene for brain growth.}, journal = {Schizophrenia research}, volume = {39}, number = {3}, pages = {219-231}, doi = {10.1016/s0920-9964(99)00076-6}, pmid = {10507514}, issn = {0920-9964}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Cerebral Cortex/growth &amp; development ; Developmental Disabilities/genetics ; Dominance, Cerebral/*genetics ; Female ; Genetic Linkage ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease/genetics ; Humans ; Language ; Language Development ; Male ; *Models, Genetic ; Psychotic Disorders/*genetics ; Selection, Genetic ; Sex Chromosomes/*genetics ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Annett, Yeo et al. and Klar have each proposed theories that relate the genetics of cerebral lateralization to predisposition to psychosis. These theories are considered in relation to the central paradox that psychosis is associated with a substantial biological disadvantage. Annett's heterozygote advantage hypothesis critically identified lateralization as a major determinant of ability, but it appears that what is inherited is degrees (as suggested by Yeo et al.) rather than (or as well as) direction of lateralization. Relative hand skill has been shown (Crow, T.J., Crow, L.R., Done, D.J., Leask, S.J., 1998. Relative hand skill predicts academic ability: global deficits at the point of hemispheric indecision. Neuropsychologia 36, 1275-1282.) to be a powerful predictor (interacting with sex) of academic ability but the greatest region of vulnerability (that includes reading disability and predisposition to psychosis) is close to the point of equal hand skill ('hemispheric indecision'). In contrast with Annett's single locus, Yeo's polygenic and Klar's strand-segregation hypotheses, each of which postulates an autosomal locus or loci, the hypothesis of a single gene for asymmetry located in a sex-specific region of homology on both X and Y chromosomes can account for sex differences, as observed in age of onset, and premorbid precursors of psychosis, as well as differences in the general population in relation to degrees of hand skill, verbal ability and cerebral asymmetry. The evolutionarily recent transposition to, and subsequent paracentric inversion in, the Y chromosome short arm of a 4-Mb block from Xq21.3 (the proximal long arm of the X) are candidates for speciation events in the lineage that led to Homo sapiens. A gene associated with a range of variation (that may be due to a high mutation site, or perhaps to epigenetic modification) on the Y that overlaps with, but differs quantitatively from, that on the X may explain the sex differences associated with psychosis, and may be relevant to its persistence. Such a gene could be the principal determinant in Man of the rate of brain growth, as suggested by Saugstad and by the findings of a recent study of adolescent onset psychosis (James, A., Crow, T.J., Renowden, S., Wardell, M., Smith, D.M., Anslow, P., in press. Is the course of brain development in schizophrenia delayed? Evidence from onsets in adolescence. Schizophr. Res.).}, }
@article {pmid10507512, year = {1999}, author = {Yeo, RA and Gangestad, SW and Edgar, C and Thoma, R}, title = {The evolutionary genetic underpinnings of schizophrenia: the developmental instability model.}, journal = {Schizophrenia research}, volume = {39}, number = {3}, pages = {197-206}, doi = {10.1016/s0920-9964(99)00074-2}, pmid = {10507512}, issn = {0920-9964}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Cerebral Cortex/*growth &amp; development ; Congenital Abnormalities/genetics ; Developmental Disabilities/genetics ; Dominance, Cerebral/*genetics ; *Genetic Predisposition to Disease ; Genetic Variation ; Growth/genetics ; Humans ; Language Development ; Models, Genetic ; Models, Neurological ; Schizophrenia/*genetics/pathology ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {The importance of genes in the etiology of schizophrenia is well known, but the manner in which the relevant genomic factors influence neural development and the nature of selection forces operating on these factors are poorly understood. In several prominent papers, Crow has provided a unique and comprehensive theory that attempts to deal with these issues. A central aspect of his theory is that a single gene leads to reduced cerebral lateralization, increased ventricular size, and risk for developing schizophrenia. He relies greatly on Annett's right shift theory of individual variation in handedness. An alternative approach, based on the construct of developmental instability, provides a different way to conceptualize genetic influences, selection forces, and atypical lateralization in schizophrenia. We suggest that the developmental instability model has stronger empirical support and is better grounded in contemporary evolutionary genetics.}, }
@article {pmid10507510, year = {1999}, author = {Annett, M}, title = {The theory of an agnosic right shift gene in schizophrenia and autism.}, journal = {Schizophrenia research}, volume = {39}, number = {3}, pages = {177-182}, doi = {10.1016/s0920-9964(99)00072-9}, pmid = {10507510}, issn = {0920-9964}, mesh = {Autistic Disorder/*genetics/physiopathology ; Cerebral Cortex/growth &amp; development/physiopathology ; Dominance, Cerebral/*genetics ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease/genetics ; Genotype ; Humans ; Language Development ; Language Disorders/*genetics ; Models, Genetic ; Models, Neurological ; Schizophrenia/*genetics/physiopathology ; }, abstract = {The right shift (RS) theory (Annett, M., 1972. The distribution of manual asymmetry. Br. J. Psychol. 63, 343-358; Annett, M., 1985. Left, Right, Hand and Brain: The Right Shift Theory. Lawrence Erlbaum, London) suggests that the typical pattern of human cerebral and manual asymmetries depends on a single gene (RS+) which impairs speech-related cortex of the right hemisphere. The theory offers solutions to several puzzles, including the distribution of handedness in families (Annett, M., 1978. A Single Gene Explanation of Right and Left Handedness and Brainedness. Lanchester Polytechnic, Coventry; Annett, M., 1996. In defense of the right shift theory. Percept. Motor Skills 82, 115-137), relations between handedness and cerebral speech laterality (Annett, M., 1975. Hand preference and the laterality of cerebral speech. Cortex 11, 305-328; Annett, M., Alexander, M.P., 1996. Atypical cerebral dominance: predictions and tests of the right shift theory. Neuropsychologia 34, 1215-1227) and handedness and dyslexia (Annett, M. et al., 1996. Types of dyslexia and the shift to dextrality. J. Child Psychol. Psychiatry 37, 167-180). If Crow's (Crow, T.J. et al., 1989. Schizophrenia as an anomaly of development of cerebral asymmetry. A postmortem study and a proposal concerning the genetic basis of the disease. Arch. Gen. Psychiatry 46, 1145-1150; Crow, T.J., 1997. Is schizophrenia the price that Homo sapiens pays for language? Schizophr. Res. 28, 127-141) theory that schizophrenia is due to an anomaly of cerebral dominance is correct, and if the RS theory is correct, schizophrenia could be due to an anomaly of the RS+ gene. If the RS+ gene were at risk for a mutation which caused a loss of directional coding, the mutant could be described as 'agnosic' for left and right. Such a gene would impair either hemisphere at random. When paired with another RS+ gene, both hemispheres would be impaired in 50% of cases. The other 50% and people in whom the agnosic gene is paired with an RS-allele (neutral for asymmetry and not giving hemisphere impairment) would have one unaffected hemisphere and, thus, normal development. Quantitative predictions based on the RS genetic theory as previously developed, plus an agnosic mutant with frequency required to give schizophrenia in 1% of the population, are consistent with estimates of concordance for schizophrenia in relatives. Homozygotes of the agnosic mutant would occur at about the rate estimated for autism.}, }
@article {pmid10505269, year = {1999}, author = {Kucher, AN and Puzyrev, VP and Sanchat, NO and Erdynieva, LS}, title = {[Genetic-demographic characteristics of the rural population of the Republic of Tuva: reproductive indicators and the structure of Crow's indices].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {35}, number = {6}, pages = {811-817}, pmid = {10505269}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Female ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Pregnancy ; Reproduction/*genetics ; Rural Population ; Russia ; }, abstract = {The age limits of the female reproductive function, vital statistics, and Crow's indices were estimated in populations of three districts of the Tuva Republic that were remote from one another. These were the Kyzyl (the Shinaan population), Todzhinskii, and Bai-Taiginskii raions. The monoethnic Shinaan population was characterized by the longest reproductive period (15.88 years) but the lowest average number of pregnancies throughout the reproductive period (5.77); childbirth was an outcome of 86.72% of pregnancies. In the Bai-Taiginskii population, which was also monoethnic but lived in an industrial area of Tuva, these parameters were 12.99 years, 7.06 pregnancies, and 81.97%, respectively. The Todzhinskii population, which was ethnically mixed, exhibited the shortest actual reproductive period (10.72 years) and the greatest average number of pregnancies throughout the reproductive period (7.29), with the proportion of pregnancies ending in childbirth as low as 48.30%. The indices of potential selection and their components related to differential mortality and differential fertility were the following: in the Shinaan population, Itot = 0.59, Im = 0.19, and I(f) = 0.34; in the Bai-Taiginskii population, Itot = 0.48, Im = 0.18, and I(f) = 0.26; and in the Todzhinskii population, Itot = 0.90, Im = 0.23, and I(f) = 0.55. Thus, reproductive parameters in the studied populations of the Tuva Republic were largely determined by the ethnic composition of the population and social factors.}, }
@article {pmid10498014, year = {1999}, author = {Wagner, BT and Hess, CW}, title = {Supervisors' use of social power with graduate supervisees in speech-language pathology.}, journal = {Journal of communication disorders}, volume = {32}, number = {5}, pages = {351-67; quiz 367-8}, doi = {10.1016/s0021-9924(99)00016-7}, pmid = {10498014}, issn = {0021-9924}, mesh = {Adult ; *Education, Graduate ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Power, Psychological ; Speech-Language Pathology/*education ; *Students ; }, abstract = {This investigation discusses social power as an identifiable and measurable aspect of the supervisory process in speech-language pathology (SLP). This study examined the use of French and Raven's (1959) types of social power by 61 clinical supervisors with their 69 beginning and 69 advanced graduate supervisees from 14 university programs. Both supervisors' and supervisees' perceptions of supervisors' use of expert, referent, coercive, legitimate, and reward power were obtained with modified versions of the Rahim Leader Power Inventory (RLPI) (Rahim, 1988). The supervisors' perceptions of their use of the five types of social power with beginning supervisees were not significantly different from the beginning supervisees' perceptions. By contrast, the study yielded discrepant perceptions of supervisors' use of social power with advanced supervisees. Further, supervisors reported differential use of power with supervisees with different amounts of clinical experience. Yet, the perceptions of beginning and advanced supervisees did not differ relative to supervisors' use of any of the five types of social power. These findings can sensitize clinical supervisors to the sources of social power inherent in their practice.}, }
@article {pmid10489761, year = {1999}, author = {Ambrus, E and Szekeres, G and Kéri, S and Csernay, L and Janka, Z and Pávics, L}, title = {[Regional cerebral blood flow changes in schizophrenic patients detected by SPECT studies under resting and active conditions].}, journal = {Orvosi hetilap}, volume = {140}, number = {32}, pages = {1783-1786}, pmid = {10489761}, issn = {0030-6002}, mesh = {Adult ; *Cerebrovascular Circulation ; Chronic Disease ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Motor Activity ; Rest ; Schizophrenia/*diagnosis/physiopathology ; Tomography, Emission-Computed, Single-Photon ; }, abstract = {Brain SPECT studies in schizophrenia revealed changes in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF). The rCBF changes can be detected more accurate by activating tests. The aim of this study was to assess rCBF changes under resting and activation condition by the Raven test. Four control patients (2 male, 2 female, average age 45 years, 26-57 years) and 11 chronic, treated schizophrenic patients (4 male, 7 female, average age: 46 years, 33-56 years) were studied in two HMPAO brain SPECT sessions, 48 hours apart, both resting and during activation task. The images were evaluated visually and semiquantitatively. Under resting condition in the control group, there were no significant rCBF changes. In the Raven activation test, a significantly higher blood flow in the prefrontal region was seen (p < 0.05). The schizophrenic group had a significantly lower rCBF in the temporal region under resting condition (p < 0.05): four patients displayed left, 4 right temporal hypoperfusion and 3 exhibited no rCBF abnormality. In the Raven activation tests 5 patients had prefrontal hyperperfusion, and the remaining 6 patients had no such activation answer. Five patients had hypoperfusion in the temporal region. In our sample, patients with chronic schizophrenia displayed significant temporal hypoperfusion. Moreover the chronic schizophrenic group exhibited a poor response to prefrontal activation compared to the control group.}, }
@article {pmid10477024, year = {1999}, author = {Low, DA and Mutic, S and Dempsey, JF and Markman, J and Goddu, SM and Purdy, JA}, title = {Abutment region dosimetry for serial tomotherapy.}, journal = {International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics}, volume = {45}, number = {1}, pages = {193-203}, doi = {10.1016/s0360-3016(99)00125-x}, pmid = {10477024}, issn = {0360-3016}, mesh = {Equipment Design/methods ; Models, Theoretical ; Physical Phenomena ; Physics ; Radiotherapy Dosage ; Radiotherapy, Conformal/instrumentation/*methods/standards ; Research Design ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: A commercial intensity modulated radiation therapy system (Corvus, NOMOS Corp.) is presently used in our clinic to generate optimized dose distributions delivered using a proprietary dynamic multileaf collimator (DMLC) (MIMiC) composed of 20 opposed leaf pairs. On our accelerator (Clinac 600C/D, Varian Associates, Inc.) each MIMiC leaf projects to either 1.00 x 0.84 or 1.00 x 1.70 cm2 (depending on the treatment plan and termed 1 cm or 2 cm mode, respectively). The MIMiC is used to deliver serial (axial) tomotherapy treatment plans, in which the beam is delivered to a nearly cylindrical volume as the DMLC is rotated about the patient. For longer targets, the patient is moved (indexed) between treatments a distance corresponding to the projected leaf width. The treatment relies on precise indexing and a method was developed to measure the precision of indexing devices. A treatment planning study of the dosimetric effects of incorrect patient indexing and concluded that a dose heterogeneity of 10% mm(-1) resulted. Because the results may be sensitive to the dose model accuracy, we conducted a measurement-based investigation of the consequences of incorrect indexing using our accelerator. Although the indexing provides an accurate field abutment along the isocenter, due to beam divergence, hot and cold spots will be produced below and above isocenter, respectively, when less than 300 degree arcs were used. A preliminary study recently determined that for a 290 degree rotation in 1 cm mode, 15% cold and 7% hot spots were delivered to 7 cm above and below isocenter, respectively. This study completes the earlier work by investigating the dose heterogeneity as a function of position relative to the axis of rotation, arc length, and leaf width. The influence of random daily patient positioning errors is also investigated.<br><br>METHODS AND MATERIALS: Treatment plans were generated using 8.0 cm diameter cylindrical target volumes within a homogeneous rectilinear film phantom. The plans included both 1 and 2 cm mode, optimized for 300 degrees, 240 degrees, and 180 degrees gantry rotations. Coronal-oriented films were irradiated throughout the target volumes and scanned using a laser film digitizer. The central target irradiated in 1 cm mode was also used to investigate the effects of incorrect couch indexing.<br><br>RESULTS: The dose error as a function of couch index error was 25% mm(-1), significantly greater than previously reported. The clinically provided indexing system yielded 0.10 mm indexing precision. The intrinsic dose distributions indicated that more heterogeneous dose distributions resulted from the use of smaller gantry angle ranges and larger leaf projections. Using 300 degrees gantry angle and 1 cm mode yielded 7% hot and 15% cold spots 7 cm below and above isocenter, respectively. When a 180 degree gantry angle was used, the values changed to 22% hot and 27% cold spots for the same locations. The heterogeneities for the 2 cm mode were 70% greater than the corresponding 1 cm values.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: While serial tomotherapy is used to deliver highly conformal dose distributions, significant dosimetric factors must be considered before treatment. The patient must be immobilized during treatment to avoid dose heterogeneities caused by incorrect indexing due to patient movement. Even under ideal conditions, beam divergence can cause significant abutment-region dose heterogeneities. The use of larger gantry angle ranges, smaller leaf widths, and appropriate locations of the gantry rotation axis can minimize these effects.}, }
@article {pmid10473796, year = {1999}, author = {Burger, J and Woolfenden, GE and Gochfeld, M}, title = {Metal concentrations in the eggs of endangered Florida scrub-jays from central Florida.}, journal = {Archives of environmental contamination and toxicology}, volume = {37}, number = {3}, pages = {385-388}, doi = {10.1007/s002449900529}, pmid = {10473796}, issn = {0090-4341}, support = {ESO 5022/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*metabolism ; Ecosystem ; Environmental Pollutants/analysis/*metabolism ; Florida ; Food Chain ; Metals/analysis/*pharmacokinetics ; Ovum/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {We analyzed metal levels in the eggs of the endangered Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens), an extremely sedentary and modestly long-lived passerine bird. Eggs were obtained as part of the long-term study of this species at the Archbold Biological Station, located in south central Florida. Following a brief and usually short dispersal, Florida scrub-jays remain in a permanent territory in their scrub oak habitat, where they feed mainly on insects and acorns. As they are low on the food chain and sedentary, we expected levels of contaminants to be comparatively low and to reflect the local environment. No significant yearly differences existed for any metal between eggs collected in 1997 (n = 11) and 1998 (n = 5). Arithmetic mean metal concentrations (whole egg, dry weight) were low for arsenic (34 ppb), cadmium (25 ppb), mercury (74 ppb), and lead (66 ppb), intermediate for chromium (226 ppb), and higher for selenium (1,470 ppb) and manganese (2,230 ppb). Except for the low mercury value, all these means were within the range of mean values reported for a wide range of nonpasserine species, including those at high trophic levels, but are lower than concentrations associated with abnormalities in birds. The three essential elements (chromium, selenium, and manganese) were approximately normally distributed, whereas arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury were highly skewed (arithmetic mean much higher than geometric mean).}, }
@article {pmid10457181, year = {1999}, author = {Bronchti, G and Corthésy, ME and Welker, E}, title = {Partial denervation of the whiskerpad in adult mice: altered patterns of metabolic activity in barrel cortex.}, journal = {The European journal of neuroscience}, volume = {11}, number = {8}, pages = {2847-2855}, doi = {10.1046/j.1460-9568.1999.00720.x}, pmid = {10457181}, issn = {0953-816X}, mesh = {Animals ; Denervation ; Deoxyglucose/pharmacokinetics ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred ICR ; Nerve Regeneration/physiology ; Nervous System Physiological Phenomena ; Neuronal Plasticity/physiology ; Physical Stimulation ; Reference Values ; Somatosensory Cortex/*physiology ; Vibrissae/*innervation ; }, abstract = {One hundred days after unilateral C-row nerve transection in the adult mouse whiskerpad, the caudal follicles of row C are reinnervated with approximately 80 % of the original number of axons [Corthésy, M.-E., Bronchti, G. &amp; Welker, E. (1999) Eur. J. Neurosci. , 11, 2835-2846]. To what extent is this reinnervation functional, and how does it interact with the enlargement of the functional representation of neighbouring rows subsequent to the denervation? Using the autoradiographic deoxyglucose method, we studied the whisker representation at the level of the barrel cortex 100 days post lesionem. We stimulated whiskers belonging to the denervated row C, the neighbouring rows B and D, or to all five rows A-E. The deoxyglucose uptake was measured in tangential sections through layer IV. The results indicate that, 100 days post lesionem, whiskers of row C reactivate their cortical barrels. However, (i) the magnitude of this cortical response was reduced; (ii) row C barrels were equivalently activated by the stimulation of the neighbouring rows; and (iii) when all whiskers were stimulated, we observed a significantly reduced deoxyglucose uptake over the representation of nonlesioned whiskers of rows D and E. Therefore, 100 days after the peripheral nerve lesion the reinnervation of the whiskerpad had not restored a normal pattern of activation at the level of the barrel cortex. We propose that this is due to a modified interaction between the representations of the various rows of follicles at the cortical level that does not return to normal.}, }
@article {pmid10454314, year = {1999}, author = {Ramirez, OM}, title = {Buccal fat pad pedicle flap for midface augmentation.}, journal = {Annals of plastic surgery}, volume = {43}, number = {2}, pages = {109-118}, pmid = {10454314}, issn = {0148-7043}, mesh = {Adipose Tissue/surgery ; Adult ; Cheek ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; *Surgical Flaps ; }, abstract = {Midface aging is characterized by soft-tissue ptosis with loss of cheek projection. Subperiosteal midface lifts may reposition the soft-tissue mounds and improve the tear trough, but may not fill the lateral cheeks in patients with significant jowls or poor bony support. Correction with alloplastic implants is helpful, but may not be accepted by many patients. During subperiosteal midface lifts, the author often excises Bichat's fat pad to decrease the jowl and to diminish face fullness. He has modified this approach and used a vascularized Bichat's fat flap to aid lateral cheek projection while still improving lower face fullness and the jowl. For the last 4 years, close to 150 patients undergoing subperiosteal midface lifts have had vascularized Bichat's fat pad flaps. The jowls were marked preoperatively. All patients had complete cheek undermining either through a buccal sulcus incision or through a crow's-foot incision, or through a muscle-sparing limited lower blepharoplasty incision. Bichat's fat pad is identified in its pocket medial to the masseter tendon. Mobilization of Bichat's fat pad is done by blunt dissection, preserving its thin fascial envelope. The "hernial saclike" pocket, excluding Stensen's duct and the buccal branches of the facial nerve, is identified and protected. Suspension is accomplished by fixation with 3-0 polydioxanone sutures either to the temporalis fascia (via the temporal incisions), to the arcus marginalis, or to the suborbicularis oculi fat pad. Fixation technique is dependent on where the fat pad is needed and the surgeon's preference. Fat pad repositioning is accomplished with a minor learning curve. The most common problems are tearing of the fat pad during fixation and temporary numbness of the long buccal nerve. Attention to leaving the capsule intact and gentle handling is essential to fixation. Nevertheless, in some patients with poor-quality fat pads, fixation is extremely difficult. Four-year results have been excellent. Further studies with magnetic resonance imaging of postoperative patients are necessary to assess longevity. Bichat's fat pad provides autologous vascularized tissue for midface fill. Placement may be lateral for cheek augmentation or medial for deep nasolabial folds. Jowl improvement also occurs with the removal of Bichat's fat pad from its pocket.}, }
@article {pmid10452860, year = {1999}, author = {McFadden, DW and Souba, WW}, title = {Joel Jay Roslyn, M.D. (1951-1999).}, journal = {The Journal of surgical research}, volume = {86}, number = {1}, pages = {1}, doi = {10.1006/jsre.1999.5733}, pmid = {10452860}, issn = {1095-8673}, }
@article {pmid10452041, year = {1997}, author = {Zhang, Y and Zhang, D and Wang, W}, title = {[Reconstruction of the skin structure of the aging].}, journal = {Zhonghua zheng xing shao shang wai ke za zhi = Zhonghua zheng xing shao shang waikf [i.e. waike] zazhi = Chinese journal of plastic surgery and burns}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {338-340}, pmid = {10452041}, issn = {1000-7806}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; *Dermatologic Surgical Procedures ; Female ; Humans ; Rats ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; *Plastic Surgery Procedures ; Rhytidoplasty/methods ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {Based on the character of degeneration and change of the aging skin, reconstruction and repair of the skin structure are performed with a method of subdermal incision in order to increase the content of collagen protein and replace the degenerates collagen in the dermis. The animal experiment shows that the treated skin contracts by nearly thirty percent (P < 0.01) at 15 days after surgery. The epidermis becomes thicker and the dermis contains more fiberoblasts and collagen than that of preoperation. Seven patients were treated with the method. Afterwards their crow's feet deformity and the wrinkles of the nasolabial groove almost disappeared.}, }
@article {pmid10434708, year = {1999}, author = {Hitoshi, S and Kusunoki, S}, title = {[Crow-Fukase syndrome].}, journal = {Ryoikibetsu shokogun shirizu}, volume = {}, number = {27 Pt 2}, pages = {496-499}, pmid = {10434708}, mesh = {Endothelial Growth Factors ; Humans ; Kidney/pathology ; Lymph Nodes/pathology ; Lymphokines ; Neural Conduction ; *POEMS Syndrome/etiology/physiopathology ; Peripheral Nervous System/pathology/physiopathology ; Prognosis ; Skin/pathology ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors ; }, }
@article {pmid10434415, year = {1999}, author = {Tarr, CL and Fleischer, RC}, title = {Population boundaries and genetic diversity in the endangered Mariana crow (Corvus kubaryi).}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {8}, number = {6}, pages = {941-949}, doi = {10.1046/j.1365-294x.1999.00644.x}, pmid = {10434415}, issn = {0962-1083}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/genetics ; Base Sequence ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; DNA Fingerprinting ; DNA, Mitochondrial/chemistry/genetics ; Ecosystem ; *Genetic Variation ; Guam ; Microsatellite Repeats/genetics ; Minisatellite Repeats/genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; Songbirds/*genetics/physiology ; }, abstract = {The Mariana crow (Corvus kubaryi) is an endangered species that is restricted to the islands of Guam and Rota in the Mariana archipelago. Predation by the introduced brown tree snake (Boiga irregularis) has decimated bird populations on Guam, and the crow population there is the last wild remnant of the endemic forest avifauna. The population on Guam is critically endangered and, despite intensive management, the population has continued to decline. Additional management options include intermixing the Guam and Rota populations, but such options are best evaluated within a population genetics framework. We used three types of molecular markers to assay genetic variation in the Mariana crow: mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences, minisatellites and microsatellites. The two populations could be differentiated by mtDNA sequencing and they differed in allele frequencies at nuclear markers. Thus, the populations could be designated as evolutionarily significant units. However, the Guam population is genetically more diverse than the Rota population, and its survival probability if managed separately is very low. All markers did indicate that the two populations are closely related and separated by a shallow genealogical division. Intermixing the populations is justified by two rationales. First, the apparent population differences may result from recent human activities. Second, a greater amount of genetic information may be preserved by joint management. The translocation of birds from Rota to Guam has begun, but strategies that will ensure maintenance of the variation in the Guam population warrant further exploration.}, }
@article {pmid10424142, year = {1999}, author = {Hashimoto, R and Taguchi, T and Kano, M and Hanyu, S and Tanaka, Y and Nishizawa, M and Nakano, I}, title = {[A case report of dementia with cluttering-like speech disorder and apraxia of gait].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {39}, number = {5}, pages = {520-526}, pmid = {10424142}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Apraxias/*complications ; Corpus Callosum/pathology ; Dementia/*complications/pathology ; Female ; *Gait ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Middle Aged ; Speech Disorders/*complications ; }, abstract = {A 57-year-old woman presented with a slowly progressive gait disturbance in 1992 (53 years of age). Over the next year, she gradually began to talk less, but her speech itself became more rapid than before. He speech was frequently too fast even for family members to understand. In 1997, she was admitted to our hospital. On admission, the patient was disoriented but able to follow simple verbal commands, to name things, and to write simple words. Neither apraxia, aphasia, hemispatial neglect, nor a corpus callosum disconnection syndrome was observed. There was no muscle weakness or atrophy. She showed a positive Babinski sign with mild spasticity in the legs and Gegenhalten, but no rigidity. Her speech was monotonous and abnormally fast (cluttering-like speech). Her speech became faster and faster toward the end of sentences, skipping several syllables or even words. She was unable to speak slowly and clearly, even when efforts were made to pace her speech to the speed set by the examiner. She was able to stand only with a wide base of support and body flexion. When standing, she was unable to place one foot directly beside the other; as she tried to have one foot near the other, the former repelled the latter. She had great difficulties in taking her first step forward, and showed rapid freezing of gait even when she managed to succeed in starting. She was able to imitate walking or bicycling with her legs unloaded, indicating that her gait disturbance was a kind of apraxia of gait. Her intelligence was somehow difficult to assess because of her peculiar speech disturbance. However, her family members had noticed her memory disturbance and personality change (offensiveness) since 3 to 4 years before the admission. Moreover, she was defective not only on Hasegawa Damentia Scale-Revised but also on Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices which estimates non-verbal intelligence. It was also noted that she was inattentive and lazy in thinking on questionnaires. Thus we considered that she was at least mildly demented and the type of dementia was of frontal pathology. Laboratory data were all normal except for the head MRI, which demonstrated prominent and thinness of the corpus callosum from the anterior part of the body to splenium without any other brain lesions that could cause the thinness secondarily. Our case resembles two cases reported by Sunohara et al in 1985, together comprising a unique clinical feature. Although Sunohara et al did not refer to the thinness of the corpus callosum in their cases, the clinical profiles in our case and theirs raise the possibility that they form a new disease entity. A further study in a large number of similar cases, including autopsies will provide a conclusion.}, }
@article {pmid10408011, year = {1999}, author = {Blatt, T and Mundt, C and Mummert, C and Maksiuk, T and Wolber, R and Keyhani, R and Schreiner, V and Hoppe, U and Schachtschabel, DO and Stäb, F}, title = {[Modulation of oxidative stresses in human aging skin].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Gerontologie und Geriatrie}, volume = {32}, number = {2}, pages = {83-88}, doi = {10.1007/s003910050088}, pmid = {10408011}, issn = {0948-6704}, mesh = {Aged ; Antioxidants/pharmacology ; Cell Survival/drug effects/physiology/radiation effects ; Coenzymes ; Female ; Free Radicals/metabolism ; Humans ; Keratinocytes/drug effects/physiology/radiation effects ; Lipid Peroxidation/drug effects/genetics/*physiology ; Male ; Skin Aging/drug effects/*physiology/radiation effects ; Ubiquinone/analogs &amp; derivatives/pharmacology ; Ultraviolet Rays ; }, abstract = {Oxidative stress (UV irradiation, free radicals) plays a significant role in aging. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and exogenously applied antioxidants can significantly reduce the formation of oxidative stress with increasing age. In our in vitro and in vivo experiments concerning the parameters of ultraweak photon emission (UPE), intracellular thiol status, mitochondrial membrane potential and cell vitality, we demonstrated a diminished resistance in keratinocytes of old donors against UV irradiation. This reduced epidermal resistance against oxidative stressors, i.e. UV irradiation, can be improved by topical application of CoQ10 and antioxidants like alpha-glucosylrutin (15). Furthermore, our in vivo investigations show that wrinkles around the region of the eyes ("crow feet") could be reduced by long-term application of CoQ10.}, }
@article {pmid10407837, year = {1999}, author = {Löffler, W and Häfner, H}, title = {[Dimensions of schizophrenic symptomatology. Comparative testing of several theoretical models in a first-episode population sample].}, journal = {Der Nervenarzt}, volume = {70}, number = {5}, pages = {416-429}, doi = {10.1007/s001150050457}, pmid = {10407837}, issn = {0028-2804}, mesh = {Acute Disease ; Adolescent ; Adult ; Child ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Models, Psychological ; Negativism ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Prospective Studies ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Sampling Studies ; Schizophrenia/*diagnosis/*physiopathology ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; *Social Adjustment ; }, abstract = {The issue of this study was the investigation of the dimensional structure of non-psychotic and psychotic symptoms in 232 first-episode schizophrenic patients (ICD-9 295., 297., 298.3, 298.4). The study was conducted within the ABC-Schizophrenia-Study. The three-factor-model of Liddle with three factors (psychomotor poverty, disorganisation, reality distortion) was replicated for the time at first admission. The model is also valid for first-episode-patients as well as to chronic patients. The comparison of the three-factor-model of Liddle with Crow's dual process model, Andreasen's bipolar model and the "severity-liability" model was done by means of confirmatory factor analysis. The comparison shows that at first admission, the three-factor-model fitted in best with the data. In contrast to previous analyses within the ABC-Study, in which positive correlations have been found between positive and negative symptoms, no positive correlation exists between Liddle's negative and positive dimensions. This may be the consequence of the subdivision of the positive dimension into the two dimensions disorganisation and psychotic symptoms. As within the three-factor-model only the negative dimension and disorganisation correlated weekly, the three dimensions are best viewed as relatively independent for the time at first admission. There are no associations between sex, type of onset, age at onset and the three dimensions of Liddle's model. Patients with the familial load are more disorganized and patients with obstetric complications show more negative symptoms. While the negative dimension shows a high stability over five years, the dimensions "disorganisation" and "positive symptoms" are not stable over time. However, there is a high degree of correlation for the dimensions "disorganization" and "positive symptoms" among cross-sections while the negative dimension was independent of the other two dimensions. The negative dimension is a highly significant predictor for social disability and social development over five years, whereas the dimensions "disorganization" and "positive symptoms" have no prognostic importance for the outcome in the long term.}, }
@article {pmid10406814, year = {1999}, author = {Cushman, WC and Horn, HR and Tuck, ML}, title = {Jay michael sullivan 936-1999.}, journal = {Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979)}, volume = {34}, number = {1}, pages = {2-3}, doi = {10.1161/01.hyp.34.1.2}, pmid = {10406814}, issn = {1524-4563}, }
@article {pmid10396650, year = {1999}, author = {Work, TM and Ball, D and Wolcott, M}, title = {Erysipelas in a free-ranging Hawaiian crow (Corvus hawaiiensis).}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {43}, number = {2}, pages = {338-341}, pmid = {10396650}, issn = {0005-2086}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*pathology ; Erysipelas/pathology/*veterinary ; Fatal Outcome ; Female ; Songbirds ; }, abstract = {We describe a case of erysipelas in a free-ranging endangered Hawaiian crow. The partially scavenged carcass exhibited gross emaciation and petechial hemorrhages in both lungs. Microscopy revealed multiple necrotic foci associated with gram-positive rods in the liver and adrenal, diffuse acute proximal tubular necrosis of kidney, diffuse necrosis and inflammation of proventricular mucosa associated with gram-positive rods, and multiple intravascular aggregates of gram-positive rods associated with thrombi. Culture of the kidney revealed the bacterium to be Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae. The implications of this finding to free-ranging crows remain unclear.}, }
@article {pmid10395253, year = {1998}, author = {Rich, NM}, title = {25th Annual Vascular Surgery Seminar and Meeting of the Society for Military Vascular Surgery.}, journal = {Cardiovascular surgery (London, England)}, volume = {6}, number = {6}, pages = {537-544}, doi = {10.1016/s0967-2109(98)00074-x}, pmid = {10395253}, issn = {0967-2109}, mesh = {Humans ; *Military Medicine ; *Societies, Medical ; United States ; *Vascular Surgical Procedures ; }, abstract = {The 25th Annual (Silver Anniversary) Vascular Surgery Seminar and Meeting of the Society for Military Vascular Surgery was held in the Jay P. Sanford Auditorium at the F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS), 4-6 December 1997. This highly successful exchange included active duty military surgeons, military surgeons in the reserves, retired military officers continuing second careers in civilian vascular surgery, distinguished visiting professors from the United States and abroad, International Guest Scholars, USUHS Faculty as well as colleagues and friends. The emphasis continued to be directed to ensuring that military vascular surgery remains current, recognizing the rich heritage of contributions to vascular surgery in general that have come from surgeons serving on battlefields around the world, particularly in this 20th century.}, }
@article {pmid10391973, year = {1999}, author = {Hori, T and Tsuboi, Y and Okubo, R and Hirooka, M and Yamada, T}, title = {[Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with Castleman disease showing hypertrophic cranial pachymeningitis and bilateral internal carotid artery occlusion].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {39}, number = {4}, pages = {456-460}, pmid = {10391973}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Arterial Occlusive Diseases/*etiology ; Carotid Artery Diseases/*etiology ; Carotid Artery, Internal ; Castleman Disease/*complications ; Cerebral Infarction/etiology ; Dura Mater/pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Hypertrophy ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Meningitis/*complications/pathology ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications ; }, abstract = {A 51-year-old woman was diagnosed as Crow-Fukase syndrome on July 1997, presenting with lymph node swelling, polyneuropathy, hepatomegaly, hypothyroidism, renal dysfunction, edema and skin change. Lymph node swelling and polyneuropathy improved in some degree after chemotherapy. She was admitted to our hospital on march 6, 1998 because of consciousness disturbance, right hemiparesis and non-fluent aphasia after fever and hypotension. The next day of admission, consciousness disturbance, right hemiparesis and non-fluent aphasia disappeared. MR images of the brain revealed low intensity on a T1-weighted image and high intensity on a T2-weighted image in the left parietal lobe. Furthermore, MR images also revealed diffuse hypertrophic dura matter with enhancement by Gd-DTPA, which made the diagnosis of chronic cranial pachymeningitis. The cerebral angiographies showed bilateral internal carotid artery occlusion. The cerebrospinal fluid showed normal cell count, total protein level of 82 mg/dl, and IgG level of 18 mg/dl. Since there has been very few case reports describing intimate relationship between Crow-Fukase syndrome and pachymeningitis, and between carotid occlusion and pachymeningitis, we speculated that the pachymeningitis might be associated with Crow-Fukase syndrome. Furthermore, pachymeningitis might be a cause of her bilateral carotid occlusion. The number of cases of Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with cerebrovascular disease was very rare. This is the first case which had bilateral internal carotid artery occlusion probably caused by chronic cranial pachymeningitis. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to cerebrovascular disease when the patient of Crow-Fukase syndrome is associated with pachymeningitis.}, }
@article {pmid10378043, year = {1999}, author = {Sigrist, T}, title = {["Crow's feet wrinkles" as a sign of preserved consciousness].}, journal = {Archiv fur Kriminologie}, volume = {203}, number = {3-4}, pages = {103-107}, pmid = {10378043}, issn = {0003-9225}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Autopsy/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Burns/pathology ; *Consciousness ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Electric Injuries/pathology ; Eyelids ; Humans ; Male ; *Skin Aging ; Suicide/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Wounds and Injuries/*pathology ; }, abstract = {We report on 3 deaths after the influence of high voltage current, fire and traumatic injury respectively. In all cases we found radial bands beside the eyes--so called "crow's feet". They are a sign of vital reaction in the cases of traumatic and thermic injury, possibly also in high-voltage burns due to sparking. In general, the "crow's feet" show that the person was conscious at the moment of the event.}, }
@article {pmid10377815, year = {1999}, author = {Arimura, K}, title = {[Increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is causative in Crow-Fukase syndrome].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {39}, number = {1}, pages = {84-85}, pmid = {10377815}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Animals ; Blood-Brain Barrier/drug effects ; Capillary Permeability/drug effects ; Cells, Cultured ; Endothelial Growth Factors/metabolism/pharmacology/*physiology ; Endothelium, Vascular/cytology ; Lymphokines/metabolism/pharmacology/*physiology ; POEMS Syndrome/*etiology/metabolism ; Rats ; Recombinant Proteins ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors ; }, abstract = {Crow-Fukase syndrome is a rare multisystem disorder characterized by polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, skin changes and M-protein. We have examined levels of vascular endothelial growth factor/vascular permeability factor (VEGF) in serum with Crow-Fukase patients. Serum VEGF levels in Crow-Fukase syndrome were about 15 to 30 times higher than control and other neurological disorders. Most of the characteristic manifestations may be well explainable by the biological function of VEGF except polyneuropathy. We examined the direct effects of VEGF on blood nerve barrier function using blood brain barrier model of rat and intraneural injection of recombinant VEGF. As the result, VEGF affected blood nerve barrier and increased microvascular permeability, thereby inducing endoneurial edema. After increasing the permeability of the blood nerve barrier by VEGF, serum components toxic to nerves such as complements and thrombins may induce nerve damage. Our results suggest that overproduction of VEGF plays an important role in the pathogenesis of Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid10367650, year = {1999}, author = {Tangredi, BP and Krook, LP}, title = {Nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism in free-living fledgling American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos brachyrhynchos).}, journal = {Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine : official publication of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians}, volume = {30}, number = {1}, pages = {94-99}, pmid = {10367650}, issn = {1042-7260}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/blood/*etiology/pathology ; Female ; Fractures, Bone/diagnostic imaging/pathology/veterinary ; Hyperparathyroidism, Secondary/etiology/pathology/*veterinary ; Hyperplasia/veterinary ; Male ; New York ; Nutrition Disorders/complications/*veterinary ; Osteitis Fibrosa Cystica/etiology/pathology/*veterinary ; Parathyroid Glands/pathology ; Radiography ; *Songbirds ; Tarsus, Animal/diagnostic imaging/injuries/pathology ; Tibia/diagnostic imaging/injuries/pathology ; }, abstract = {From June 1994 to June 1996, 18 fledgling American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos brachyrhynchos) from multiple locations on Long Island, New York, were presented with signs of metabolic bone disease characterized by folding fractures of the proximal tibiotarsus. Plasma alkaline phosphatase levels were elevated, and the calcium/phosphorus ratio and 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25-(OH)D3) levels were decreased. The histopathologic diagnosis was parathyroid hyperplasia and generalized osteodystrophia fibrosa. A diet low in bioavailable calcium and/or vitamin D3 was the probable cause. Also, exposure to xenobiotics could have contributed to the depression of 25-(OH)D3 levels.}, }
@article {pmid10358433, year = {1998}, author = {Slabá, S and Cepická, B}, title = {[Psychological characteristics of obese patients hospitalized at the obesity unit of the 4th Internal Medicine Clinic of the Medical School Hospital in Prague].}, journal = {Sbornik lekarsky}, volume = {99}, number = {3}, pages = {319-321}, pmid = {10358433}, issn = {0036-5327}, mesh = {Body Image ; Female ; Hospitalization ; Humans ; Male ; Obesity/*psychology/therapy ; Personality ; Psychological Tests ; }, abstract = {This study presents the results of a psychological survey carried out in 1995 and 1996 in the Obesity Unit of IVth Department of Internal Medicine, General Faculty Hospital in Prague. There were 86 patients examined. The patients underwent a series of tests and questionnaires--Raven's Progressive Matrices, STAI, Miniscripts, Body Image. No significant differences were found between men and women. On the basis of this screening the general characteristics of obese patients hospitalized in this Unit can be described as follows: average to above average level of mental capacity for the general population, a need to "be strong and have everything under control", a need for recognition from other people, slightly increased level of anxiety. In their perception of their bodies they see themselves as overweight, unattractive and in a poor state of health.}, }
@article {pmid10355679, year = {1999}, author = {Esposito, G and Kirkby, BS and Van Horn, JD and Ellmore, TM and Berman, KF}, title = {Context-dependent, neural system-specific neurophysiological concomitants of ageing: mapping PET correlates during cognitive activation.}, journal = {Brain : a journal of neurology}, volume = {122 (Pt 5)}, number = {}, pages = {963-979}, doi = {10.1093/brain/122.5.963}, pmid = {10355679}, issn = {0006-8950}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aging/*physiology ; Brain Mapping/*methods ; Cerebrovascular Circulation/physiology ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/physiopathology ; *Cues ; Data Interpretation, Statistical ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Nervous System Physiological Phenomena ; Prefrontal Cortex/physiology ; Problem Solving ; Tomography, Emission-Computed ; }, abstract = {We used PET to explore the neurophysiological changes that accompany cognitive disability in ageing, with a focus on the frontal lobe. Absolute regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) was measured in 41 healthy volunteers, evenly distributed across an age range of 18-80 years, during two task paradigms: (i) the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), which depends heavily on working memory and is particularly sensitive to dysfunction of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC); and (ii) Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM), which may also have a working memory component, but depends more on visuo-spatial processing and is most sensitive to dysfunction of postrolandic regions. We used voxel-wise correlational mapping to determine age-related changes in WCST and RPM activation and developed a method to quantitate and localize statistical differences between the correlation maps for the two task paradigms. Because both WCST and RPM performance declined with age, as expected, correlational analyses were performed with and without partialling out the effect of task performance. Task-specific reductions of rCBF activation with age were found in the DLPFC during the WCST and in portions of the inferolateral temporal cortex involved in visuo-spatial processing during the RPM. We also found reduced ability to suppress rCBF in the right hippocampal region during the WCST and in mesial and polar portions of the prefrontal cortex during both task conditions. Task-dependent alterations with age in the relationship between the DLPFC and the hippocampus were also documented; because the collective pattern of changes in the hippocampal-DLPFC relationship with ageing was opposite to that seen in a previous study using dextroamphetamine, we postulated a dopaminergic mechanism. These results indicate that, despite some cognitive overlap between the two tasks and the age-related cognitive decline in both, many of the changes in rCBF activation with age were task-specific, reflecting functional alteration of the different neural circuits normally engaged by young subjects during the WCST and RPM. Reduced activation of areas critical for task performance (i.e. the DLPFC during the WCST and posterior visual association areas of the inferolateral temporal cortex during the RPM), in conjunction with the inability to suppress areas normally not involved in task performance (i.e. the left hippocampal region during the WCST and mesial polar prefrontal cortex during both the WCST and RPM), suggest that, overall, reduced ability to focus neural activity may be impaired in older subjects. The context dependency of the age-related changes is most consistent with systems failure and disordered connectivity.}, }
@article {pmid10349336, year = {1998}, author = {Arimura, K and Osame, M}, title = {[Recent advance in neuroimmunology].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {38}, number = {12}, pages = {993-996}, pmid = {10349336}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Autoantibodies ; Capillary Permeability ; Central Nervous System/cytology/virology ; Endothelial Growth Factors ; *Fasciculation/immunology ; Humans ; KCNQ Potassium Channels ; KCNQ1 Potassium Channel ; Lymphokines ; *Neuroimmunomodulation ; *POEMS Syndrome/etiology ; *Paraparesis, Tropical Spastic/immunology ; Potassium Channels/immunology ; *Potassium Channels, Voltage-Gated ; T-Lymphocytes, Cytotoxic/immunology ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors ; }, abstract = {Many important reports have been published during these several years in Japan in the field of neuroimmunology. Serum vascular endothelial factor (VEGF) levels in Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome were about 15 to 30 times than those in the control subjects and other neurological disorders. The overproduction of VEGF may be relevant to the pathogenesis of most of the manifestations including neuropathy. We speculate that VEGF may affect the blood nerve barrier by increasing microvascular hyperpermeability and thereby increasing endoneural pressure subsequent to edema. In Isaacs' syndrome, voltage-gated potassium channel (VGKC) were suppressed by anti-VGKC antibodies. The patch clamp study indicate that the pathophysiology of the suppression of VGKC seems to be due to the increased degradation of VGKC. By the recent nationwide survey, the total number of HTLV-I-associated myelopathy (HAM) patients in Japan is now estimated as 1,432. A most likely pathological mechanism of HAM is that cytotoxic T lymphocytes attack the HTLV-I infected lymphocytes infiltrating the central nervous system, resulting a surrounding nervous tissue damage by bystander mechanism.}, }
@article {pmid10339947, year = {1999}, author = {Ifuku, Y and Minami, K and Sata, T and Inoue, Y and Fujii, K and Shigematsu, A}, title = {[Prolonged effects of vecuronium in a patient with Crow-Fukase syndrome].}, journal = {Masui. The Japanese journal of anesthesiology}, volume = {48}, number = {4}, pages = {424-426}, pmid = {10339947}, issn = {0021-4892}, mesh = {*Anesthesia, General ; Appendectomy ; Appendiceal Neoplasms/complications/surgery ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Monitoring, Intraoperative ; *Neuromuscular Blockade ; Neuromuscular Depolarizing Agents/*pharmacology ; *POEMS Syndrome/complications ; Time Factors ; Vecuronium Bromide/*pharmacology ; }, abstract = {We gave anesthesia to a patient with the Crow-Fukase syndrome. A patient with this syndrome shows polyneuropathy, endocrinological symptoms, skin change, hypertrichosis, organomegaly and osteosclerotic change. We monitored the effects of vecuronium using a neuromuscular blockade monitor. The patient with this syndrome was hypersensitive to vecuronium and its effects lasted longer than usual. It is important to monitor neuromuscular blockade carefully in patients with this syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid10053079, year = {1999}, author = {Bogliani, G and Sergio, F and Tavecchia, G}, title = {Woodpigeons nesting in association with hobby falcons: advantages and choice rules.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {57}, number = {1}, pages = {125-131}, doi = {10.1006/anbe.1998.0959}, pmid = {10053079}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {Many bird species nest in close association with other bolder and more aggressive birds which provide protection against nest predators. The woodpigeons, Columba palumbus, that nest in poplar plantations in Northern Italy are found almost exclusively clumped around hobby, Falco subbuteo, nests. Woodpigeons settle in the area and build their nests after the hobby has started nesting. We carried out experiments with dummy nests and observations on woodpigeon nests. Dummy woodpigeon nests placed near a hobby's nest suffered less depredation by hooded crows, Corvus corone cornix, than those placed far from it. A logistic regression analysis showed that three variables, hobby nesting stage, distance from the hobby's nest and the hobby's aggressiveness, influenced the probability of nest predation. The degree of protection varied during the hobby's nesting period and was highest when chicks were in the nest. The hobby's aggressiveness against intruders varied both between and within individuals during different nesting phases. The predation rate of dummy nests associated with the falcon was negatively correlated with the aggressiveness score of the hobby during the 6 days of dummy nest exposure. Observations on real nests showed that woodpigeons selected hobbies that had a high fledging success, and a more vigorous defensive behaviour. Clues that would allow woodpigeons to choose the best protector may be early nesting by the hobby and its aggressiveness. Hobbies preyed on adult woodpigeons, but the risk incurred by the woodpigeons was low compared with the very high risk of nest predation in this area. Copyright 1999 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid10049484, year = {1999}, author = {Clayton, NS and Dickinson, A}, title = {Motivational control of caching behaviour in the scrub jay, Aphelocoma coerulescens.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {57}, number = {2}, pages = {435-444}, doi = {10.1006/anbe.1998.0989}, pmid = {10049484}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {We investigated the motivational control of caching behaviour in scrub jays using a two-stage procedure to examine the effects of prefeeding and/or precaching (stage 1) on subsequent caching behaviour (stage 2). Experiment 1 demonstrated that both prefeeding and precaching reduced the subsequent caching of both edible (peanuts) and inedible (stones) items. The reduction in caching was greatest when the items available for storing were the same in the two stages. This item specificity was confirmed in experiment 2 using two food types, peanuts and dog food kibbles. The final experiment demonstrated that the effect of prefeeding on subsequent caching can also be food specific, in that birds that received food in a powdered form that they could eat, but not cache in stage 1, showed a reduction in subsequent caching in stage 2 only when the food type was the same in the two stages. These results suggest that caching behaviour is controlled by both the feeding system and an independent caching system, and that this control is mediated by the incentive value of the specific items rather than by a general motivational state. Copyright 1999 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid10049468, year = {1999}, author = {Delestrade, A}, title = {Foraging strategy in a social bird, the alpine chough: effect of variation in quantity and distribution of food.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {57}, number = {2}, pages = {299-305}, doi = {10.1006/anbe.1998.0951}, pmid = {10049468}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {I conducted feeding experiments to determine the effect of variations in food availability on individual flocking behaviour and foraging efficiency in a social corvid, the alpine chough Pyrrhocorax graculus, which lives in large flocks all year round. In 37 trials I varied both food quantity and the number of food patches. A decrease in the amount of available food reduced the mean flock size, the proportion of birds that had access to food, and their mean pecking rate. A decrease in the number of patches, on the other hand, reduced only the proportion of birds that had access to food. The number of choughs foraging was not influenced by food competition but depended only on the number visiting the site. Females competed less well than males: when food was made scarce, they frequented the site in the same proportion as did males, but had less access to food. I suggest that in this social corvid, long-term advantages to flocking related to social bonds, such as the maintenance of pair bonds, may compensate for short-term costs such as a reduction in foraging efficiency. Copyright 1999 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid10318924, year = {1999}, author = {Brown, JL and Li, SH and Bhagabati, N}, title = {Long-term trend toward earlier breeding in an American bird: a response to global warming?.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {96}, number = {10}, pages = {5565-5569}, pmid = {10318924}, issn = {0027-8424}, mesh = {Animals ; Arizona ; Birds/*physiology ; Breeding ; Ecology ; Female ; *Greenhouse Effect ; North America ; *Reproduction ; Seasons ; Temperature ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {In regions with severe winters, global warming may be expected to cause earlier onset of breeding in most animals, yet no documentation of such a trend exists in North America. In a study of marked individuals of the Mexican jay (Aphelocoma ultramarina) in southeastern Arizona, from 1971 to 1998, the mean Julian date of first clutch in the population declined significantly by 10.1 days. The date of the first nest in the population also became earlier, by 10.8 days. These changes were associated with significant trends toward increased monthly minimum temperatures on the study area, traits that are associated with the onset of breeding in this population. Significant trends from 1971 to 1997 toward warmer minimum temperatures in the months before and during the initiation of breeding were observed. These trends parallel changes in minimum temperatures and community composition in a recent study of grassland ecology in the western United States. Together, they suggest that more attention should be given to the possible ecological importance of global change in minimum temperatures.}, }
@article {pmid10234230, year = {1999}, author = {Griffiths, D and Dickinson, A and Clayton, N}, title = {Episodic memory: what can animals remember about their past?.}, journal = {Trends in cognitive sciences}, volume = {3}, number = {2}, pages = {74-80}, doi = {10.1016/s1364-6613(98)01272-8}, pmid = {10234230}, issn = {1879-307X}, abstract = {The question of whether episodic memory, the ability to recall unique, personal experiences, is restricted to humans is a matter of current controversy. Recent work on food-storing jays suggests that several features of episodic memory may not be as exclusive to humans as previously thought. In this review we outline the critical features of episodic memory in humans, its relationship to declarative memory, and recent results revealing that jays can learn to perform a task that depends on certain features of episodic memory and can thus be considered 'episodic-like'. Finally, we compare this avian performance with a contemporary definition of human episodic memory and consider the implications for studies of hippocampal function and animal cognition.}, }
@article {pmid10227913, year = {1999}, author = {Leopizzi, G}, title = {A transpalpebral approach to treatment of eyebrow ptosis.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {23}, number = {2}, pages = {125-130}, doi = {10.1007/s002669900254}, pmid = {10227913}, issn = {0364-216X}, mesh = {Blepharoplasty/*methods ; Blepharoptosis/*surgery ; Eyebrows/*anatomy &amp; histology/surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; }, abstract = {The aging process in the human face most often is first visible in the temporal-orbital region, where the ptosis of the eyebrow edge and pseudoexcess of upper eyelid skin are caused by orbicularis oculi muscle downfall. Through the upper blepharoplasty standard incision, the orbicularis oculi muscle is mobilized widely and suspended into a higher position with a stitch put on the deep temporal fascia. In this way the eyebrow is elevated and stabilized, thus reducing so-called "crow's feet." In some cases, when the skin distance between the temporal hairline and the eyebrow edge is too short or when it is necessary to lift the eyebrow edge more than 3 mm, a supplementary temporal incision is recommended to tighten better, in the same direction as the tension vector, the superficial temporal fascia and the overlying skin, firmly bonded to it.}, }
@article {pmid10216669, year = {1998}, author = {Tandon, A and Ramji, S and Kumari, S and Goyal, A and Chandra, D and Nigam, VR}, title = {Cognitive abilities of asphyxiated survivors beyond 5 years of age.}, journal = {Indian pediatrics}, volume = {35}, number = {7}, pages = {605-612}, pmid = {10216669}, issn = {0019-6061}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Asphyxia Neonatorum/*physiopathology ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Child Behavior ; Child Development/*physiology ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cohort Studies ; Educational Status ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; Intelligence ; Interpersonal Relations ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Neurologic Examination ; Psychomotor Performance ; *Survivors ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the intellectual, psychoeducational and social maturity of a cohort of unimpaired asphyxiated survivors beyond 5 years of age.<br><br>DESIGN: Case control study on hospital based cohorts on a longitudinal follow up at High Risk and Well Baby Clinics of a teaching hospital.<br><br>METHODS: The demographic data of these children was recorded. A detailed physical examination was performed. The tests of cognition included the Stanford Binet and the Raven's Progressive matrices. Academic achievement was evaluated by the Wide range achievement test-Revised (WRAT-R). Assessment of visuo-motor integration was done by the Bender Gestalt Test. The proportion of children having soft neurological signs was determined. Vineland Social Maturity Scale was performed on all children.<br><br>RESULTS: Fifty-four asphyxiated and 57 matched control children participated in the study. Of the 54 asphyxiated children, 27 were tested at a mean age of 7.2 +/- 1.6 years (Group 1) and 27 were tested at a mean age of 10.9 +/- 1.52 years (Group 2). The asphyxiated children as a group performed in the normal range on tests of cognition and academic achievement but were significantly disadvantaged (p < 0.005) as compared to controls. A higher percentage of asphyxiated children had low scores on the Bender Gestalt Test as compared to controls but the difference was not significant. A significantly higher proportion of asphyxiated children of both the groups showed the presence of soft neurological signs as compared to controls. Approximately 11% of the asphyxiated children performed in the abnormal range in the Vineland Social Maturity Scale.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Cognitive abilities of asphyxiated children beyond the age of 5 years are impaired in comparison to controls, emphasizing the need for early detection and referral for special education.}, }
@article {pmid10210858, year = {1998}, author = {Brazzelli, M and Spinnler, H}, title = {An example of lack of frontal inhibition: the 'utilization behaviour'.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {5}, number = {4}, pages = {357-353}, doi = {10.1046/j.1468-1331.1998.540347.x}, pmid = {10210858}, issn = {1468-1331}, abstract = {The focus of this report is utilization behaviour (UB) conceived as part of the Environmental Dependency Syndrome following frontal damage. An historical sketch is provided on the many conceptualizations of the frontal lobe functions relevant to the understanding of UB. The detailed study of the neuropsychological picture presented by a patient (PG) with massive herpetic damage is then outlined. Emphasis is put on PG's prominent UB as well as on her several dissociations between impaired (as expected) and spared (non expected) cognitive abilities. Such dissociations are discussed with reference to the historical conceptualizations outlined above. The question is raised of whether a great inter-subjects variability of the topo-functional arrangements in the healthy frontal lobes could be the main cause of the variability of symptoms observed in patients with frontal lesions. Copyright 1998 Lippincott-Raven Publishers}, }
@article {pmid10210849, year = {1998}, author = {Lim, SM and Oldfield, M and Abbott, RJ}, title = {Systemic lupus erythematosus presenting with steroid-responsive parkinsonism and post-hemiplegic dystonia.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {309-312}, doi = {10.1046/j.1468-1331.1998.530309.x}, pmid = {10210849}, issn = {1468-1331}, abstract = {A young male patient who presented with steroid-responsive parkinsonism, hemiplegia, thrombocytopaenia and systemic illness who was subsequently diagnosed to have systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is described. He later developed post-hemiplegic dystonia. Thalamic lesions on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are demonstrated. Clinical features and neuropathology of central nervous system lupus are discussed. This is the first report of SLE presenting with Parkinsonism, and the first to demonstrate anatomically-relevant MRI lesions in Parkinsonism associated with SLE.Copyright Lippincott-Raven Publishers}, }
@article {pmid10210848, year = {1998}, author = {Berry, C and MacKie, RM}, title = {A case of facial diplegia associated with herpes simplex reactivation.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {305-307}, doi = {10.1046/j.1468-1331.1998.530305.x}, pmid = {10210848}, issn = {1468-1331}, abstract = {Facial nerve palsy is the commonest cranial neuropathy affecting 40/100 000 people in the Western World but is idiopathic in 50-70% of cases. This report describes a case of recurrent facial nerve palsy in association with herpes simplex virus (HSV) reactivation. HSV may be a major cause of racial nerve palsy. Further research is required to clarify this issue in order that targeted treatment strategies can be developed for this common problem.Copyright Lippincott-Raven Publishers}, }
@article {pmid10210847, year = {1998}, author = {Guidolin, L and Vignoli, A and Canger, R}, title = {Worsening in seizure frequency and severity in relation to folic acid administration.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {301-303}, doi = {10.1046/j.1468-1331.1998.530301.x}, pmid = {10210847}, issn = {1468-1331}, abstract = {We report a case of increase in seizure frequency and severity in a 26-year-old woman receiving folic acid at a dosage of 0.8 mg/day. She had symptomatic partial epilepsy with simple and complex seizures treated with carbamazepine. She was planning pregnancy and we prescribed folic acid for prevention of neural-tube defects. In the next few days she had a generalized tonic-clonic seizure for the first time and a significant increase in seizure frequency. Because of the temporal relation between the seizure worsening and the administration of folic acid, we hypothesize a role of folic acid in provoking seizures, as has been reported in the literature.Copyright Lippincott-Raven Publishers}, }
@article {pmid10210846, year = {1998}, author = {Tiberti, C and Sabe, L and Jason, L and Leiguarda, R and Starkstein, S}, title = {A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of methylphenidate in patients with organic amnesia.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {297-299}, doi = {10.1046/j.1468-1331.1998.530297.x}, pmid = {10210846}, issn = {1468-1331}, abstract = {We examined the usefulness of methylphenidate (MPH) in the treatment of organic amnesia in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design. Twenty patients with amnesia due to closed head injuries (n = 10), viral encephalitis (n = 2), stroke lesions (n = 4), or surgical brain resections (n = 4) were assessed with a neuropsychological battery after the intake of MPH (10, 20, 30 or 40 mg), or placebo. We found no significant benefit of MPH for any of the cognitive tests.Copyright Lippincott-Raven Publishers}, }
@article {pmid10210845, year = {1998}, author = {Boller, F and Marcie, P and Starkstein, S and Traykov, L}, title = {Memory and depression in Parkinson's disease.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {291-295}, doi = {10.1046/j.1468-1331.1998.530291.x}, pmid = {10210845}, issn = {1468-1331}, abstract = {Disorders of learning and memory are a frequent finding in nondemented Parkinson disease (PD) patients. It is not clear to what extent depression, present in at least half the cases of PD, contributes to these disorders. This paper investigates the possible influence of depression on tests of episodic memory in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). We studied three groups of 11 subjects each (controls, non-depressed PD, mildly to moderately depressed PD). Neuropsychological tests included tests of short and long-term memory in verbal and non-verbal modalities. The two groups of PD patients performed significantly worse than controls on the memory tests, but there were no differences between the depressed and non-depressed PD patients. This lack of influence of depression on neuropsychological performance is compatible with Starkstein's view that cognitive imnpairment is only found beyond a given threshold of depression severity.Copyright Lippincott-Raven Publishers}, }
@article {pmid10210844, year = {1998}, author = {Szczepanski, M and Cieslak, E and Gardas, A and Bauer, A and Majkowski, J}, title = {Prevalence of high IgM anticardiolipins in patients with ischemic stroke.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {287-290}, doi = {10.1046/j.1468-1331.1998.530287.x}, pmid = {10210844}, issn = {1468-1331}, abstract = {Lupus anticoagulant (LA), IgG and IgM isotypes of anticardiolipins (aCL), lipoprotein (a), and the resistance to activated protein C were determined in patients with ischemic stroke. The raised concentration of the aCL-IgM isotype was noted in 42% of patients with this type of stroke, and it was in contrast with an 8% frequency of an increased level of aCL-IgG isotype in these cases. The high level of lipoprotein (a) was found with similar frequency in stroke patients and in age-matched control subjects. It is concluded that the elevated concentration of IgM isotype of anticardiolipin antibodies can be regarded as significant in the ethiological work-up in elderly stroke patients.Copyright Lippincott-Raven Publishers}, }
@article {pmid10210843, year = {1998}, author = {Patti, F and Failla, G and Ciancio, MR and L'Episcopo, MR and Reggio, A}, title = {Neuropsychological, neuroradiological and clinical findings in multiple sclerosis. A 3 year follow-up study.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {283-286}, doi = {10.1046/j.1468-1331.1998.530283.x}, pmid = {10210843}, issn = {1468-1331}, abstract = {Cognitive impairment is a frequent feature in multiple sclerosis patients. To assess its evolution in comparison with clinical and neuroradiological evolution, we followed up 57 multiple sclerosis patients over a 3-year period. During this time EDSS deteriorated significantly but not the MRI lesional load nor the cognitive test performance; nevertheless both at the beginning and at the end of the follow-up neuropsychological results showed a significant correlation with both EDSS and lesional load. No clinical or paraclinical features could reliably predict neuropsychological evolution.Copyright Lippincott-Raven Publishers}, }
@article {pmid10210842, year = {1998}, author = {Bendtsen, L and Mellerup, ET}, title = {The platelet serotonin transporter in primary headaches.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {277-282}, doi = {10.1046/j.1468-1331.1998.530277.x}, pmid = {10210842}, issn = {1468-1331}, abstract = {Serotonin (5-HT) plays a major role in the pathophysiology of primary headaches. The presynaptic 5-HT uptake mechanism, which is important for the regulation of 5-HT levels in the neuronal synapses, can be examined indirectly by measuring the number of 5-HT transporters in membranes from platelets. The aim of the present study was to investigate the platelet 5-HT transport system in patients with primary headache disorders. Bmax, an index of the number of platelet 5-HT transporters, was measured in 40 patients with chronic tension-type headache, in 30 patients with migraine without aura, and in 40 healthy controls using a binding analysis with tritiated paroxetine as the ligand. The Bmax was 664 (589-846) (median (quartiles)) fmol/mg protein in patients with tension-type headache and 662 (534-781) fmol/mg protein in healthy controls, P = 0.40. The Bmax was 675 (558-747) fmol/mg protein in patients with migraine, which was not significantly different from the Bmax in controls, P = 0.94. In conclusion, the present results indicate that the number of platelet 5-HT transporters is normal in patients with chronic tension-type headache and in patients with migraine without aura.Copyright Lippincott-Raven Publishers}, }
@article {pmid10210841, year = {1998}, author = {Matusevicius, D and Kivisakk, P and Navikas, V and Tian, W and Soderstrom, M and Fredrikson, S and Link, H}, title = {Influence of IFN-beta1b (Betaferon) on cytokine mRNA profiles in blood mononuclear cells and plasma levels of soluble VCAM-1 in multiple sclerosis.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {265-275}, doi = {10.1046/j.1468-1331.1998.530265.x}, pmid = {10210841}, issn = {1468-1331}, abstract = {Inflammatory cell infiltration within the central nervous system (CNS) and upregulation of both pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines are characteristic for multiple sclerosis (MS). Treatment with interferon-beta 1b (IFN-beta1b) reduces the number and severity of MS relapses. To examine whether treatment with IFN-beta1b affects levels of cytokine mRNA expressing blood mononuclear cells (MNC) we employed in-situ hybridization with synthetic oligonucleotide probes to detect and enumerate IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, IL-10, TGF-beta and perforin mRNA expressing cells in MS patients before treatment with IFN-beta1b and during treatment for 3-6 weeks and for 3-6 months. Numbers of blood MNC spontaneously expressing TNF-alpha and IL-10 mRNA were lower after 3-6 months of treatment, while numbers of IFN-gamma, TGF-beta and perforin mRNA expressing MNC were not affected by treatment. IFN-beta1b had no influence on levels of MBP-reactive IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, TGF-beta, IL-10 or perforin mRNA expressing blood MNC determined after 3-6 weeks or 3-6 months of treatment. Parallel measurements of plasma concentrations of soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) revealed elevated levels after 3-6 weeks of treatment and these levels remained higher after 3-6 months of treatment. The results suggest that IFN-beta1b treatment upregulates plasma levels of sVCAM-1, but has little effects on numbers of blood MNC expressing mRNA of the pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines under study.Copyright Lippincott-Raven Publishers}, }
@article {pmid10210840, year = {1998}, author = {Alarcon, F and Cevallos, N and Lees, AJ}, title = {Does combined levodopa and bromocriptine therapy in Parkinson's disease prevent late motor complications?.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {255-263}, doi = {10.1046/j.1468-1331.1998.530255.x}, pmid = {10210840}, issn = {1468-1331}, abstract = {Levodopa-carbidopa (LD) in low dosages adequately controls symptoms in most patients with Parkinson's disease and delays the appearance of fluctuations and dyskinesias. It has been suggested that early combination therapy with bromocriptine and levodopa delays or prevents the onset of late treatment complication associated with LD monotherapy in Parkinson's disease. We have conducted this study to assess the possible benefit of combined therapy compared with levodopa monotherapy. Seventy-eight previously untreated patients with Parkinson's disease were recruited over a period of 54 months and randomly allocated to either a levodopa-carbidopa (LD) Group or a levodopa-carbidopa in combination with low-dose bromocriptine (LD-Br) Group. The appearance of motor complications determined the end point of the study. We gradually increased the doses of bromocriptine (2.5-15 mg/d) or levodopa (125-500 mg/d) until the maximum "on" time was reached. In six patients, the doses of levodopa had to be increased up to the optimal dose (625-1000 mg/day). In the last evaluation the on-time and parkinsonian disability were similar in both treatment groups. We did not find statistically significant differences in the frequency of motor complications when comparing the two groups of treatment. Our study suggests that early combination of levodopa and bromocriptine does not confer any clinical benefit over levodopa alone in treating early Parkinson's disease, nor will it influence the evolution of the disease.Copyright Lippincott-Raven Publishers}, }
@article {pmid10210839, year = {1998}, author = {Belfiore, G and Di Maio L,  and Napolitano, G and Cella, S and Filla, A and De Michele G,  and Campanella, G}, title = {Long-term effect of a single dose of flunarizine in Huntington's disease.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {249-253}, doi = {10.1046/j.1468-1331.1998.530249.x}, pmid = {10210839}, issn = {1468-1331}, abstract = {We report a preliminary pilot study on the clinical efficacy of flunarizine (FNZ), a calcium-entry blocker that causes extrapyramidal side-effects, in 10 patients with Huntington's disease (HD). FNZ (20 mg) administered by the sublingual route resulted in a decrease in choreic movements and improved dexterity in performing several tests. These effects lasted for at least 7 days after a single dose. Therefore, FNZ seems to exert the same effect as a long-acting neuroleptic agent in our HD patients.Copyright Lippincott-Raven Publishers}, }
@article {pmid10210838, year = {1998}, author = {Tanji, H and Nagasawa, H and Araki, T and Onodera, J and Takase, S and Itoh, M and Itoyama, Y}, title = {PET study of striatal fluorodopa uptake and dopamine D2 receptor binding in a patient with juvenile parkinsonism.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {243-248}, doi = {10.1046/j.1468-1331.1998.530243.x}, pmid = {10210838}, issn = {1468-1331}, abstract = {We studied pre-synaptic and post-synaptic function in the striatum of a patient with juvenile parkinsonism (JP) using positron emission tomography (PET). [18F]6-fluorodopa (18FDOPA), 11C-YM-09151-2 and [18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose (18FDG) were used to measure fluorodopa uptake, dopamine D2 receptor binding and glucose metabolism, respectively. In this patient, 18FDOPA accumulation was decreased markedly in the caudate nucleus and the putamen bilaterally. In the images of 11C-YM-09151-2 and 18FDG, in contrast, no conspicuous changes were observed in the striatum. Thus our PET studies using 18FDOPA, 11C-YM-09151-2 and 18FDG provide a useful approach for assisting the diagnosis of JP, because the present findings are different from the results in patients with dopa-responsive dystonia and hereditary progressive dystonia with marked diurnal fluctuation. Furthermore, our findings are of particular interest in relation to the pathogenesis of JP.Copyright Lippincott-Raven Publishers}, }
@article {pmid10210837, year = {1998}, author = {Wermuth, L}, title = {A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, multi-center study of pramipexole in advanced Parkinson's disease.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {235-242}, doi = {10.1046/j.1468-1331.1998.530235.x}, pmid = {10210837}, issn = {1468-1331}, abstract = {Pramipexole (SND 919), a potent non-ergot dopamine agonist, or placebo, was administered to 69 patients with advanced Parkinson's disease (33 received placebo, 36 received pramipexole) in a double-blind, randomized, multi-center study in which individually optimized doses of L-dopa plus a dopa decarboxylase inhibitor were associated with dyskinesia, "on-off" fluctuation, dystonia, akinesia, or end-of-dose deterioration. Study medication was titrated over 7 weeks to the maximal tolerated dose or to the maximal dose allowed by the study (5 mg/day in four divided doses). Dosing was maintained for 4 weeks and then tapered during the final week. Total score on the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) for the intent-to-treat population was significantly improved in the pramipexole-treated group compared with the placebo-treated group (16.9 +/- 14.9 vs 9.0 +/- 16.1; p = 0.0184). By the end of maintenance, the mean reduction in L-dopa requirement was -150.7 mg for pramipexole-treated patients compared to -10.6 for placebo-treated patients. The most common adverse events (< 10%) were dizziness, insomnia, nausea, and postural hypotension. Aggravated parkinsonism occurred only after withdrawal of the study medication. Treatment with pramipexole in doses up to 5 mg/day was safe and well tolerated by patients with advanced Parkinson's disease.Copyright Lippincott-Raven Publishers}, }
@article {pmid10210836, year = {1998}, author = {Davous, P}, title = {CADASIL: a review with proposed diagnostic criteria.}, journal = {European journal of neurology}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {219-233}, doi = {10.1046/j.1468-1331.1998.530219.x}, pmid = {10210836}, issn = {1468-1331}, abstract = {Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) can be considered as a new disease predominantly affecting the small vessels of the brain with an autosomal dominant transmission linked to chromosome 19. This review includes an historical perspective showing how the disease was identified from the spectrum of vascular leukoencephalopathies. More than two hundred patients have now been described, belonging to at least 30 unrelated pedigrees in Europe, America and Asia. The clinical features include four major neurological presentations associated in variable degrees during the course of the disease: migraine with or without aura, strokes or stroke-like episodes, major psychiatric symptoms and dementia. The patients are free of the classical vascular risk factors. The disease has a progressive or stepwise course with age at onset in the forties and a mean duration of 13.6 +/- 10.7 years. Death occurs in the fifties in a characteristic condition associating a pseudo-bulbar syndrome and subcortical dementia. Cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is highly contributive to the diagnosis, showing a diffuse leukoencephalopathy with subcortical infarcts in the basal ganglia and white matter. Pathological data show macroscopic lesions similar to Binswanger's disease but different lesions of the small vessels including thickening of the media, characteristic PAS+ granular material and narrowing of the lumen. Skin biopsy may be a valuable diagnostic tool, showing ultrastructural alterations of skin vessels similar to those of brain vessels. The disease is highly homogeneous on a genetic basis and the identification of the gene Notch 3 on chromosome 19 has opened new avenues for research and genetic counselling. The pathogenesis of the disease has still to be elucidated. A definite diagnosis relies on genetical or pathological data. Diagnostic criteria are proposed to recognize the disease on clinical and imaging parameters. So far, no treatment has been reported to be successful for CADASIL. Copyright Lippincott-Raven Publishers}, }
@article {pmid10097417, year = {1998}, author = {Bellis, G and Roux, F and Chaventré, A}, title = {Endemic cretinism in a traditional society in Mali: from the collectivity to the individual.}, journal = {Collegium antropologicum}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {23-30}, pmid = {10097417}, issn = {0350-6134}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Child ; Congenital Hypothyroidism/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Female ; Goiter, Endemic/epidemiology ; Humans ; Male ; Mali/epidemiology ; Middle Aged ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {The prevalence of endemic cretinism was measured in a village belonging to the Bwa ethnic group in Mali liable to iodine deficiency and suffering from endemic goitre. In this village according to mental and motor handicaps found in cretinism, we used two psychometric tests: the Raven's Progressive Matrice (PM 47) and a "peg test". Using the fiduciary inference method on the two tests associated with a clinical and qualitative approach, we obtained a prevalence of myxedematous cretinism close to 1.2%.}, }
@article {pmid10077861, year = {1999}, author = {Yazaki, Y and Matsushima, T and Aoki, K}, title = {Testosterone modulates stimulation-induced calling behavior in Japanese quails.}, journal = {Journal of comparative physiology. A, Sensory, neural, and behavioral physiology}, volume = {184}, number = {1}, pages = {13-19}, doi = {10.1007/s003590050302}, pmid = {10077861}, mesh = {Animals ; Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal/metabolism/*pharmacology ; Brain Chemistry/*physiology ; Cell Size/drug effects/physiology ; Coturnix ; Dendrites/drug effects/physiology ; Electric Stimulation ; Female ; Male ; Mesencephalon/cytology/physiology ; Neuronal Plasticity/*drug effects/physiology ; Neurons/cytology/physiology/ultrastructure ; Sex Characteristics ; Silver Staining ; Testosterone/*pharmacology/physiology ; Vocalization, Animal/*drug effects/physiology ; }, abstract = {Japanese quails have a variety of calling patterns depending on sex and age. Sexually mature adult males emit a characteristic crow which has a frequency-modulated acoustical trill element. Recently we reported that the intercollicular nucleus of the mesencephalon is the vocal neural system for producing the distress call in untreated chick and the crowing vocalization in testosterone-treated chick in Japanese quails. We postulated that the intercollicular nucleus could mediate this testosterone action on vocal behavior. The present study showed histologically that the intercollicular nucleus neurons of adult males have many more dendrites than those of females. The adult males produced the call with trill element with electrical stimulation of the intercollicular nucleus alone. Females produced the simple call, which has no frequency modulation, with electrical stimulation; 4 days after the testosterone treatment together with electrical stimulation, they also produced the call with trill element, the characteristic call of males. We suggest that the vocal neural system in the intercollicular nucleus is modulated by testosterone during development and produces the crow in males, and the intercollicular nucleus neurons in adults mediate the action of testosterone on vocal behavior. The crow of adult males could therefore be due to effects of testosterone on the neural mechanism in the intercollicular nucleus.}, }
@article {pmid10075193, year = {1999}, author = {Gully, KJ and Britton, H and Hansen, K and Goodwill, K and Nope, JL}, title = {A new measure for distress during child sexual abuse examinations: the genital examination distress scale.}, journal = {Child abuse &amp; neglect}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {61-70}, doi = {10.1016/s0145-2134(98)00111-2}, pmid = {10075193}, issn = {0145-2134}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Child Abuse, Sexual/*diagnosis ; Child, Preschool ; Discriminant Analysis ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Male ; Physical Examination/*psychology ; *Stress, Psychological ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The primary aim was to develop a simple scale to quantify indices of emotional distress during the rectal-genital (anogenital) phase of a child sexual abuse examination.<br><br>METHOD: A scale successfully developed to measure reactions of children to painful procedures, in particular bone marrow aspirations, was used as a model (Elliot, Jay, &amp; Woody, 1987). This new scale was developed to have a simplified rating format, more relevant operational definitions and possibly a different set of behavioral categories. This new scale was developed using 300 children being examined for possible child sexual abuse. Intraclass correlation coefficients identified reliable items to use. Factor analysis and Cronbach alpha were employed to understand the internal structure of the scale. Paired t-tests, Pearson correlations and hierarchical regression were used to explore validity.<br><br>RESULTS: A simple 7-item scale was developed along with two subscales representing agitated and verbally mediated distress. Ratings of distress were significantly greater during the anogenital phase than the general physical part of the examination. Increased distress was associated with positive physical findings. Ratings by the children that they disliked the physician looking at their bodies provided discriminant validity by correlating with increased scores for emotional distress during the anogenital segment of the examination.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The Genital Examination Distress Scale (GEDS) has been developed for measuring the emotional distress of children during the anogenital component of child sexual abuse examinations. The GEDS has been provided for prudent use. Descriptive data offer a comparative standard for other programs and research.}, }
@article {pmid10070795, year = {1999}, author = {Xing, L and Curran, B and Hill, R and Holmes, T and Ma, L and Forster, KM and Boyer, AL}, title = {Dosimetric verification of a commercial inverse treatment planning system.}, journal = {Physics in medicine and biology}, volume = {44}, number = {2}, pages = {463-478}, doi = {10.1088/0031-9155/44/2/013}, pmid = {10070795}, issn = {0031-9155}, support = {CA43840/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Algorithms ; Equipment Design ; Humans ; *Phantoms, Imaging ; Radiotherapy/instrumentation/*methods ; *Radiotherapy Dosage ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; Software ; Water ; }, abstract = {A commercial three-dimensional (3D) inverse treatment planning system, Corvus (Nomos Corporation, Sewickley, PA), was recently made available. This paper reports our preliminary results and experience with commissioning this system for clinical implementation. This system uses a simulated annealing inverse planning algorithm to calculate intensity-modulated fields. The intensity-modulated fields are divided into beam profiles that can be delivered by means of a sequence of leaf settings by a multileaf collimator (MLC). The treatments are delivered using a computer-controlled MLC. To test the dose calculation algorithm used by the Corvus software, the dose distributions for single rectangularly shaped fields were compared with water phantom scan data. The dose distributions predicted to be delivered by multiple fields were measured using an ion chamber that could be positioned in a rotatable cylindrical water phantom. Integrated charge collected by the ion chamber was used to check the absolute dose of single- and multifield intensity modulated treatments at various spatial points. The measured and predicted doses were found to agree to within 4% at all measurement points. Another set of measurements used a cubic polystyrene phantom with radiographic film to record the radiation dose distribution. The films were calibrated and scanned to yield two-dimensional isodose distributions. Finally, a beam imaging system (BIS) was used to measure the intensity-modulated x-ray beam patterns in the beam's-eye view. The BIS-measured images were then compared with a theoretical calculation based on the MLC leaf sequence files to verify that the treatment would be executed accurately and without machine faults. Excellent correlation (correlation coefficients > or = 0.96) was found for all cases. Treatment plans generated using intensity-modulated beams appear to be suitable for treatment of irregularly shaped tumours adjacent to critical structures. The results indicated that the system has potential for clinical radiation treatment planning and delivery and may in the future reduce treatment complexity.}, }
@article {pmid10069201, year = {1999}, author = {Ako, S and Kaneko, Y and Higuchi, M and Ideura, T and Arakura, H and Hora, K and Oguchi, H and Kiyosawa, K}, title = {Crow-Fukase syndrome--immunoadsorption plasmapheresis effectively lowers elevated interleukin-6 concentration.}, journal = {Nephrology, dialysis, transplantation : official publication of the European Dialysis and Transplant Association - European Renal Association}, volume = {14}, number = {2}, pages = {419-422}, doi = {10.1093/ndt/14.2.419}, pmid = {10069201}, issn = {0931-0509}, mesh = {Ascites/metabolism ; Female ; Humans ; *Immunosorbent Techniques ; Interleukin-6/*metabolism ; Middle Aged ; Osmolar Concentration ; POEMS Syndrome/physiopathology/*therapy ; *Plasmapheresis ; }, }
@article {pmid10068494, year = {1999}, author = {Maney, DL and Schoech, SJ and Sharp, PJ and Wingfield, JC}, title = {Effects of vasoactive intestinal peptide on plasma prolactin in passerines.}, journal = {General and comparative endocrinology}, volume = {113}, number = {3}, pages = {323-330}, doi = {10.1006/gcen.1998.7220}, pmid = {10068494}, issn = {0016-6480}, mesh = {Animals ; Depression, Chemical ; Female ; Injections, Intravenous ; Male ; Prolactin/*blood ; Radioimmunoassay ; Restraint, Physical ; Songbirds/*blood ; Species Specificity ; Stress, Psychological/metabolism ; Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; }, abstract = {Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a potent releaser of prolactin (PRL) in domestic fowl, turkey, and ring doves. However, few comparative studies have investigated this in wild species. We tested the effects of intravenously administered chicken VIP on plasma PRL concentrations in four passerine species: the white-crowned sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii), the dark-eyed junco (Junco hyemalis), the Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens), and the western scrub-jay (A. californica). In the white-crowned sparrow, junco, and Florida scrub-jay, which were tested during the breeding season, VIP induced a rapid increase in plasma PRL. Serial plasma samples taken after VIP injection in the white-crowned sparrow show a 10-fold increase in PRL within 2 min of treatment, followed by a gradual decline. Effects of VIP, as compared to saline, remained significant for at least 20 min after treatment. Western scrub-jays did not respond to intravenous VIP with a significant rise in PRL secretion, possibly because they were tested after termination of the breeding season. This study indicates that VIP control of PRL release may be widespread among avian species, and that seasonal changes in plasma PRL may be mediated in part at the level of the pituitary. In addition, analysis of the control data revealed no increase in plasma PRL as a result of injection or restraint, suggesting that unlike in mammals, PRL is not released during acute stress in passerines.}, }
@article {pmid10202087, year = {1999}, author = {Fritz, J and Kotrschal, K}, title = {Social learning in common ravens, Corvus corax.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {57}, number = {4}, pages = {785-793}, doi = {10.1006/anbe.1998.1035}, pmid = {10202087}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {We conducted an experiment to investigate whether the presence of a conspecific model can promote the acquisition of a motor task in common ravens. For this purpose, dyads, either of control birds or of model-observer pairings, were allowed to operate together in an arena with a set of identical boxes. Each box consisted of two compartments each containing a reward of three pieces of meat. The compartments were closed by gliding lids with red flaps on their front, opening horizontally in opposite directions. Naive control individuals opened the lids exclusively by levering, that is, jumping on top of the box, inserting the beak at the posterior rim of the lid and pushing it open. Models were trained to demonstrate an alternative opening technique, pulling at the front flap, then jumping on top of the box to get at the reward. In contrast to the control birds, observers initially opened boxes both ways, by pulling and levering. Furthermore, observers approached the boxes more quickly and showed less fearful behaviour than the control birds, which we attribute to the enhancing effect of the model. We discuss both stimulus enhancement and motor imitation as possible learning mechanisms. Even though observers initially obtained a considerable amount of reward produced by the models, scrounging evidently did not inhibit learning. Copyright 1999 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid10051683, year = {1999}, author = {Steadman, DW and White, JP and Allen, J}, title = {Prehistoric birds from New Ireland, Papua New Guinea: extinctions on a large Melanesian island.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {96}, number = {5}, pages = {2563-2568}, pmid = {10051683}, issn = {0027-8424}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology/*classification ; Geography ; *Paleontology ; Papua New Guinea ; }, abstract = {At least 50 species of birds are represented in 241 bird bones from five late Pleistocene and Holocene archaeological sites on New Ireland (Bismarck Archipelago, Papua New Guinea). The bones include only two of seabirds and none of migrant shorebirds or introduced species. Of the 50 species, at least 12 (petrel, hawk, megapode, quail, four rails, cockatoo, two owls, and crow) are not part of the current avifauna and have not been recorded previously from New Ireland. Larger samples of bones undoubtedly would indicate more extirpated species and refine the chronology of extinction. Humans have lived on New Ireland for ca. 35,000 years, whereas most of the identified bones are 15,000 to 6,000 years old. It is suspected that most or all of New Ireland's avian extinction was anthropogenic, but this suspicion remains undetermined. Our data show that significant prehistoric losses of birds, which are well documented on Pacific islands more remote than New Ireland, occurred also on large, high, mostly forested islands close to New Guinea.}, }
@article {pmid10028468, year = {1999}, author = {Sella, EJ and Barrette, C}, title = {Staging of Charcot neuroarthropathy along the medial column of the foot in the diabetic patient.}, journal = {The Journal of foot and ankle surgery : official publication of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons}, volume = {38}, number = {1}, pages = {34-40}, doi = {10.1016/s1067-2516(99)80086-6}, pmid = {10028468}, issn = {1067-2516}, mesh = {Adult ; Arthropathy, Neurogenic/classification/etiology/*pathology/therapy ; Diabetic Foot/*complications ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Orthotic Devices ; Tarsal Joints/diagnostic imaging/*pathology ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {Diabetes mellitus is the leading cause of Charcot neuroarthropathy. The most common location is along the medial column of the foot. Over a 2-year period, the process can result in a severely deformed foot, which is highly prone to ulcers, infection, and subsequent amputation. To help identify the early stages of the disease process, the histories, physical examinations, and radiographs of 40 patients with 51 neuropathic feet were evaluated. We were able to identify five stages of Charcot deformities. Stage 0 is a clinical stage in which the patient presents with a locally swollen, warm, and often painful foot. Radiographs are negative and technetium 99 bone scan is markedly positive. Indium and gallium scans are normal. Stage 1, in addition to the clinical findings, demonstrates periarticular cysts, erosions, localized osteopenia, and sometimes diastases. Stage 2 is marked by joint subluxations, usually starting between the second cuneiform and the base of the second metatarsal and spreading laterally. Stage 3 is identified by joint dislocation and arch collapse. Stage 4 is the healed and stable end result of the process. Clinically, there is no temperature gradient between the two feet. Radiographically, there is bony trabeculation across joint spaces indicative of mature fusion. Treatment of stage 0 consists of limited weightbearing and close observation while the diagnosis becomes clear. Stage 1 is treated with casting followed by a University of California Biomechanics Lab orthosis (UCBL), to maintain the arch while allowing limited weightbearing. In stage 2, a partial weightbearing total contact cast followed by a Charcot restraint orthotic walker (CROW) is used. Surgery may be needed at this stage, while the joints are still reducible. Arthrodesis with rigid fixation is recommended. Stage 3 is treated with casting for the acute phase, then with a patellar-tendon-bearing ankle-foot orthosis, CROW, or caliper orthosis. If ulcers are present, they are treated with weekly local debridement, antibiotics, and total contact casting. Occasionally decompressive ostectomy is required. Stage 4 may need surgical removal of the bony prominences causing the nonhealing ulcers. Extra-depth shoes and pressure-relieving orthoses are also used. Twenty-five percent of our patients diagnosed and treated in the early stages (stages 0, 1 and 2) did not develop deformity. Surgery to prevent deformity is recommended early, before the destructive stage (stage 3). Close follow-up, especially in a noncompliant population is necessary.}, }
@article {pmid10024983, year = {1999}, author = {Maeshima, S and Komai, N and Nakai, K and Oura, Y and Nakagawa, M and Itakura, T and Masuo, O and Yamaga, H and Okita, R and Ozaki, F and Moriwaki, H}, title = {[Construct validity of a new computer-assisted cognitive assessment battery in normal adults].}, journal = {No shinkei geka. Neurological surgery}, volume = {27}, number = {1}, pages = {41-47}, pmid = {10024983}, issn = {0301-2603}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Cognition/*physiology ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis ; Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Microcomputers ; Middle Aged ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {A computer-assisted battery for neuropsychological tests (CNT) has been designed to screen adults for cognitive impairment. The aim of this study was to gather evidence for the construct validity of CNT and also investigate the relationship between CNT and conventional neuropsychological tests. Subjects were 45 healthy adults (21 men and 24 women), who ranged in age from 20 to 70 years (mean = 33.5, SD = 1.9) with no history of substance abuse, or of psychotic or neurological disorders. The CNT in our study consists of six subtests designed to assess various components of driving, such as digit span, visual scanning, visual and verbal memory, complex reaction time, and vigilance. Mini-mental state test, Kana-hiroi test, word fluency, the auditory-verbal learning test and Raven's colored progressive matrices were also performed as conventional neuropsychological tests. Results showed there were high correlations between each CNT subtests and conventional neuropsychological tests. A factor analysis (with varimax rotation) identified 4 factors with eigen values greater than 1, which accounted for over 70% of the variance. CNT was able to estimate each factor related to cognitive function such as learning and memory, attention, judgment, and visual scanning selectively. CNT may thus be a useful tool for detection of cognitive impairment, although this test has important limitations. Broader applications of these tests will require extensive population-based validation.}, }
@article {pmid9987859, year = {1999}, author = {Clayton, NS and Dickinson, A}, title = {Memory for the content of caches by scrub jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens).}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Animal behavior processes}, volume = {25}, number = {1}, pages = {82-91}, pmid = {9987859}, issn = {0097-7403}, mesh = {Animals ; *Appetitive Behavior ; *Birds ; Female ; Male ; *Mental Recall ; Motivation ; *Orientation ; Retention, Psychology ; }, abstract = {To test whether scrub jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) remember the contents of food caches, in Experiment 1 birds cached peanuts and kibbles in two distinct caching trays and recovered them 4 or 172 hr later. The relative incentive value of the foods was manipulated by prefeeding one of the foods immediately before cache recovery. Birds preferentially searched for non-prefed food caches even when the caches had been pilfered prior to the recovery test. In Experiment 2, birds cached both foods in different sites within each tray, recovering peanuts from one tray and kibbles from the other tray 3 hr later. After prefeeding with one food, birds preferentially searched tray sites in which they had cached but not retrieved the non-prefed food. Thus jays remember the specific foods they cache and recover by a mnemonic process that cannot be explained in terms of simple associations between the foods and their cache locations.}, }
@article {pmid9972103, year = {1999}, author = {Paoli, G and Franceschi, MG and Lasker, GW}, title = {Changes over 100 years in degree of isolation of 21 parishes of the Lima Valley, Italy, assessed by surname isonymy.}, journal = {Human biology}, volume = {71}, number = {1}, pages = {123-133}, pmid = {9972103}, issn = {0018-7143}, mesh = {Cohort Studies ; *Consanguinity ; Emigration and Immigration ; Female ; Humans ; Italy ; Male ; *Names ; Population Dynamics ; Registries ; Regression Analysis ; Sex Ratio ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Changes over 100 years (1887-1986) in degree of isolation of 21 parishes of the Lima valley, Italy, were assessed using surname analysis. Crow and Mange's inbreeding coefficients and Lasker and Kaplan's repeated pair values were calculated using 8026 marriage records; temporal changes were assessed by dividing birth cohorts into 4 time periods of 25 years each: 1887-1911, 1912-1936, 1937-1961, and 1962-1986. Analysis was carried out at 2 hierarchical levels: the population of the valley as a whole and the valley's subdivision into 21 parishes. The relationship between population size and level of isonymy during the breakdown of isolates was investigated. The results show that there is a small difference in inbreeding coefficients between the first 2 periods at either hierarchical level of analysis and a substantial decrease in marital isonymy during the study period is mostly due to the change in male random isonymy. Furthermore, the Fn value at the higher hierarchical level almost coincides with the mean F value at the lower hierarchical level, indicating that over time the parish remained the fundamental reproductive unit. Regression analysis showed that geographic isolation became increasingly important in differentiation among the parishes in population size and in levels of inbreeding. The marked deviation from equilibrium between drift and migration that characterizes the breakdown of isolates of almost all the rural populations is an important disturbing factor in assessing the relationship between level of inbreeding and population size. Comparison over time allows us to better describe the evolutionary forces at the basis of the changes in genetic structure of a population.}, }
@article {pmid9951965, year = {1999}, author = {Toledo, R and Muñoz-Antolí, C and Pérez, M and Esteban, JG}, title = {Miracidial infectivity of Hypoderaeum conoideum (Trematoda: Echinostomatidae): differential susceptibility of two lymnaeid species.}, journal = {Parasitology research}, volume = {85}, number = {3}, pages = {212-215}, doi = {10.1007/s004360050537}, pmid = {9951965}, issn = {0932-0113}, mesh = {Animals ; Echinostomatidae/*physiology ; Fresh Water ; Host-Parasite Interactions ; Lymnaea/*parasitology ; Signal Transduction ; Snails/*parasitology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {A study was made of the infectivity of Hypoderaeum conoideum miracidia to a range of laboratory-reared specimens of freshwater snail species (Lymnaea peregra, L. corvus, Physella acuta, and Gyraulus chinensis) that coexist with the parasite in the same natural habitat. L. peregra and L. corvus were found to be equally susceptible to the parasite when specimens of each snail species were singly exposed to miracidia. However, when miracidia could choose either lymnaeid species, they showed a high degree of specificity toward L. peregra. The results obtained suggest that H. conoideum miracidia are capable of distinguishing among these lymnaeids in their orientation to the host. This indicates that miracidia might achieve specificity before actually contacting the snail host and suggests that during the host-snail orientation process they respond to signals different from those generated upon snail contact and invasion. The specificity toward L. peregra observed in H. conoideum miracidia seems to indicate adaptation to the snail community in their natural habitat, resulting in enhancement of their transmission.}, }
@article {pmid9950563, year = {1999}, author = {Fagien, S}, title = {Botox for the treatment of dynamic and hyperkinetic facial lines and furrows: adjunctive use in facial aesthetic surgery.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {103}, number = {2}, pages = {701-713}, doi = {10.1097/00006534-199902000-00055}, pmid = {9950563}, issn = {0032-1052}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Denervation/methods ; *Face ; Humans ; Neuromuscular Agents/*therapeutic use ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {Our improved understanding of the pathophysiology of facial lines, wrinkles, and furrows has broadened the treatment options for a variety of facial cosmetic blemishes. The persistence or recurrence of certain facial rhytids after surgery has confirmed the lack of full comprehension of their origin. Glabellar forehead furrows (frown lines) and lateral canthal rhytids (crow's feet) have been the most popular facial lines that have been shown to be mostly the result of regional hyperkinetic muscles, and their eradication may be more suitable, at times, to chemodenervation than to soft-tissue fillers, skin resurfacing, or surgical resection. Aesthetic surgical procedures that have yielded suboptimal results may also occur from failure to recognize other causative factors including hyperkinetic or dynamic musculature, which may contribute to etiology of the visible soft-tissue changes and lack of persistent effect after surgery. Chemodenervation with botulinum toxin A (Botox) has proven to be useful both as a primary treatment for certain facial rhytids and as an adjunctive agent for a variety of facial aesthetic procedures to obtain optimal results.}, }
@article {pmid9949535, year = {1998}, author = {Smirnova, AA and Lazareva, OF and Zorina, ZA}, title = {[Teaching hooded crows (Corvus cornix L.) the abstract rule of choice by the matching/oddity of the sample].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {48}, number = {5}, pages = {855-867}, pmid = {9949535}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Choice Behavior/*physiology ; Discrimination Learning/*physiology ; Generalization, Psychological/physiology ; Photic Stimulation/methods ; Reinforcement, Psychology ; Songbirds/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Six hooded crows (Corvus cornix) were trained in alternative simultaneous matching-to-sample and oddity-from-sample tasks with visual stimuli. Bird's ability to acquire the abstract same/different concept was investigated. For this purpose three stimulus sets of the following categories were used: color (black and white cards), shape (Arabic numerals "1" and "2"), and numerousness (heterogeneous arrays of 1 or 2 elements). These three sets were used for training successively and repeatedly; each time the stimulus set was changed for the next one after the criterion (80% correct or better over 30 successive trials) was reached with the previous one. The training procedure was repeated until the criterion could be reached for each of the three stimulus sets within the initial 30-50 trials. After that, the abstractness of the rule acquired by birds was tested. First, the "partial" transfer tests were conducted, which consisted in presentation of novel stimuli with familiar ones (numerals and arrays in the range from 1 to 4). At the final stage, only sets of novel numerals and arrays in the range from 5 to 8 were presented. The crows demonstrated successful transfer in all of these tests, including the test with absolutely novel stimuli (in the first 24 presentations: min 75.0%, p < 0.02; max 83.3%, p < 0.01). The level of correct choices did not differ from the baseline (p > 0.05). This allows us to conclude that birds are capable for formation of the abstract same/different concept.}, }
@article {pmid9927214, year = {1999}, author = {Hagan, H and McGough, JP and Thiede, H and Weiss, NS and Hopkins, S and Alexander, ER}, title = {Syringe exchange and risk of infection with hepatitis B and C viruses.}, journal = {American journal of epidemiology}, volume = {149}, number = {3}, pages = {203-213}, doi = {10.1093/oxfordjournals.aje.a009792}, pmid = {9927214}, issn = {0002-9262}, support = {1F31DA05680/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; 1RO1DA08023/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; U62/CCU006260//PHS HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Cohort Studies ; Confounding Factors, Epidemiologic ; Female ; Hepatitis B/epidemiology/*prevention &amp; control ; Hepatitis C/epidemiology/*prevention &amp; control ; Humans ; Incidence ; Male ; Needle Sharing/*adverse effects ; *Needle-Exchange Programs ; Risk-Taking ; *Substance Abuse, Intravenous ; Time Factors ; Washington/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {The authors utilized a cohort study among Seattle injection drug users (IDUs) to assess whether participation in a syringe exchange program was associated with incidence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Susceptible IDU subjects (187 seronegative for antibody to HCV, and 460 seronegative for core antibody to HBV) were identified in drug treatment, corrections, and social service agencies from June 1994 to January 1996, and followed for seroconversion one year later. The subjects included in the analysis were Seattle-King County (Washington State) area IDUs enrolled in a larger multipurpose cohort study, the Risk Activity Variables, Epidemiology, and Network Study (RAVEN Study). There were 39 HCV infections (20.9/100/year) and 46 HBV infections (10.0/100/year). There was no apparent protective effect of syringe exchange against HBV (former exchange users, relative risk (RR) = 0.68, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.2-2.5; sporadic exchange users, RR = 2.4, 95% CI 0.9-6.5; regular users, RR = 1.81, 95% CI 0.7-4.8; vs. RR = 1.0 for nonusers of the exchange; adjusted for daily drug injection). Neither did the exchange protect against HCV infection (sporadic users, RR = 2.6, 95% CI 0.8-8.5; regular users, RR = 1.3, 95% CI 0.8-2.2; vs. RR = 1.0 for nonusers; adjusted for recent onset of injection and syringe sharing prior to enrollment). While it is possible that uncontrolled confounding or other bias obscured a true beneficial impact of exchange use, these data suggest that no such benefit occurred during the period of the study.}, }
@article {pmid9922140, year = {1998}, author = {Loewen, MC and Gronwald, W and Sönnichsen, FD and Sykes, BD and Davies, PL}, title = {The ice-binding site of sea raven antifreeze protein is distinct from the carbohydrate-binding site of the homologous C-type lectin.}, journal = {Biochemistry}, volume = {37}, number = {51}, pages = {17745-17753}, doi = {10.1021/bi9820513}, pmid = {9922140}, issn = {0006-2960}, mesh = {Animals ; Antifreeze Proteins ; Base Sequence ; Binding Sites ; Carbohydrates/*chemistry ; Fishes ; Freezing ; Glycoproteins/*chemistry/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; *Ice ; Lectins/*chemistry ; Models, Molecular ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Mutagenesis, Insertional ; Mutagenesis, Site-Directed ; Pichia/genetics ; Protein Conformation ; Recombinant Proteins/biosynthesis/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification ; Sequence Homology, Amino Acid ; }, abstract = {Antifreeze proteins lower the freezing point of their solution by binding to ice and inhibiting its growth. One of several structurally different antifreeze proteins in fishes (type II) is homologous to the carbohydrate-recognition domain of Ca2+-dependent lectins and adopts the same three-dimensional fold. Type II antifreeze proteins from herring and smelt require Ca2+ for binding to ice, whereas this same antifreeze protein in sea raven binds to ice in the absence of Ca2+ and has only two of the five Ca2+-liganding amino acids that are present in the lectin. To locate the ice-binding site, site-directed mutants of the 15 kDa, globular, disulfide-bonded sea raven antifreeze protein were produced by secretion from Pichia pastoris. Pairs of amino acid replacements, insertions, and a peptide loop swap were made in the region equivalent to the sugar-binding site of the lectin that encompasses loops 3 and 4 and beta-sheets 7 and 8. Even the most extensive mutation caused only a 25% decrease in antifreeze activity and demonstrated that the residues corresponding to the Ca2+-binding site are only peripherally involved in ice binding. When adjacent surface residues were mutated, the replacement of one residue, Ser120 by His, caused a 35% decrease in activity by itself and an 80% loss in conjunction with the peptide loop swap mutation. This pivotal sea raven antifreeze protein amino acid does not coincide with the herring ice-binding epicenter, but is located within the region corresponding to the proposed CaCO3-binding surface of a third homologue, the pancreatic stone protein. Intron and exon structure of the sea raven AFP gene also suggests that it might be more closely related to the stone protein gene than to the lectin gene. These results support the notion that this family of proteins has evolved more than one binding surface from the same protein scaffold.}, }
@article {pmid9882553, year = {1999}, author = {Vleck, CM and Patrick, DJ}, title = {Effects of vasoactive intestinal peptide on prolactin secretion in three species of passerine birds.}, journal = {General and comparative endocrinology}, volume = {113}, number = {1}, pages = {146-154}, doi = {10.1006/gcen.1998.7191}, pmid = {9882553}, issn = {0016-6480}, mesh = {Animals ; Drug Implants ; Female ; Male ; Prolactin/*metabolism ; Radioimmunoassay ; Songbirds/*metabolism ; Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide/administration &amp; dosage/*pharmacology ; }, abstract = {Previous work on domesticated species has indicated that vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is an important prolactin-releasing factor in these birds, but no comparative work in passerine birds has been reported. This study showed that iv injections of VIP (50-100 microg/kg body mass) result in a dramatic, but transitory, rise in plasma prolactin in Mexican jays (Aphelocoma ultramarina). Significant increases in prolactin were also observed following VIP injection in blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) and zebra finches (Poephilla guttata). At the dosage we used, maximum levels of prolactin attained were slightly lower (Mexican jays) or very similar (blue jay and zebra finch) to the maximum prolactin levels observed in other, breeding birds of the same species. In zebra finches that initially had low prolactin, VIP injection resulted in a greater than 10-fold increase in prolactin within 10 min, but those individuals that already had elevated prolactin showed no further increase in response to VIP. Slow-release pellets of VIP implanted subcutaneously in Mexican jays and releasing 10 or 15 microg VIP/day (two or three pellets) produced a significant increase in plasma prolactin (78 and 92% rise, respectively) compared to birds with placebo pellets or with with one pellet releasing only 5 microg/day.}, }
@article {pmid9880836, year = {1998}, author = {Wilkes, J and Weigel, A}, title = {[Comparison of WISC-R and Raven's Progressive Matrices tests in a clinical consultation population].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie und Psychotherapie}, volume = {26}, number = {4}, pages = {261-265}, pmid = {9880836}, issn = {1422-4917}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Child Behavior Disorders/diagnosis/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Mental Disorders/diagnosis/psychology ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; Wechsler Scales/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: What are the differences between measuring intelligence with the WISC-R or with the Progressive Matrices Tests?<br><br>METHODS: 702 children were tested as outpatients of the Child and Adolescent Department of the Psychiatric University Hospital Erlangen-Nuremberg by means of the WISC-R and the Progressive Matrices Tests (CPM and SPM).<br><br>RESULTS: Highly significant differences in the mean were found. The mean IQ was 10 points higher on the CPM than on the WISC-R but 6 points lower than the WISC-R on the SPM. At 0.67 the correlations between WISC-R and the Matrices Tests were each in the middle high range. Differences between the tests were substantial and remain unchanged despite the recently newly normed SPM.}, }
@article {pmid9875711, year = {1998}, author = {Rockstroh, B and Clementz, BA and Pantev, C and Blumenfeld, LD and Sterr, A and Elbert, T}, title = {Failure of dominant left-hemispheric activation to right-ear stimulation in schizophrenia.}, journal = {Neuroreport}, volume = {9}, number = {17}, pages = {3819-3822}, doi = {10.1097/00001756-199812010-00010}, pmid = {9875711}, issn = {0959-4965}, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation ; Case-Control Studies ; Evoked Potentials, Auditory/*physiology ; Female ; Functional Laterality/*physiology ; Humans ; Magnetoencephalography ; Male ; Schizophrenia/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {Schizophrenia is associated with an absence of the lateralizations that typify the human brain. Previous evidence emphasized structural changes, particularly reduced asymmetry in extension and surface of the planum temporale, although gross structural deviations occur only in a minority of patients. The present study describes an absence of lateralization on a robust functional measure that characterized schizophrenia patients: healthy subjects but not schizophrenics displayed a contralateral left-hemispheric dominance of the auditory evoked magnetic field to right-ear auditory stimulation. Absence of contralateral dominance in response to auditory stimuli among schizophrenia patients may indicate a failure to establish unequivocal left-hemispheric dominance of the phonological loop as hypothesized by Crow.}, }
@article {pmid9870053, year = {1998}, author = {Shenk, D and Zablotsky, D and Croom, MB}, title = {Thriving older African American women: aging after Jim Crow.}, journal = {Journal of women &amp; aging}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {75-95}, doi = {10.1300/j074v10n01_06}, pmid = {9870053}, issn = {0895-2841}, mesh = {Black or African American/*psychology ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Prejudice ; Self Concept ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {This paper is based on the findings of small group discussions with self-defined successful African American women age 60+ in Charlotte, North Carolina. These women, who lived through the Jim Crow era and thrived in spite of the obstacles, continue to seek meaning in their lives through the roles they play in their families, churches, and communities. They feel strongly that there is a core of key values that continue to hold meaning and struggle to impart these values to those whose lives they touch. The key values identified include education, religion, work, and giving back to the community, and illustrate the integration of both traditional and nontraditional definitions of success. Mentoring is proposed as an important concept for understanding the lives of African American women in later life.}, }
@article {pmid9865799, year = {1998}, author = {Shimomura, T and Mori, E and Yamashita, H and Imamura, T and Hirono, N and Hashimoto, M and Tanimukai, S and Kazui, H and Hanihara, T}, title = {Cognitive loss in dementia with Lewy bodies and Alzheimer disease.}, journal = {Archives of neurology}, volume = {55}, number = {12}, pages = {1547-1552}, doi = {10.1001/archneur.55.12.1547}, pmid = {9865799}, issn = {0003-9942}, mesh = {Aged ; Alzheimer Disease/diagnosis/*psychology ; Cognition/*classification ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory ; Motor Skills ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/diagnosis/*psychology ; Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is emerging as a common cause of degenerative dementia. Some preliminary evidence exists that the pattern of cognitive impairment in DLB is different from that in Alzheimer disease (AD).<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To delineate features of cognitive impairment of DLB on standardized neuropsychological tests.<br><br>METHODS: We performed neuropsychological assessments of 26 patients with probable DLB (based on criteria of the consortium on DLB international workshop) and of 52 patients with probable AD (based on criteria of the National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke [now the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke])-Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Association) who were matched to the patients with DLB 2:1 by age, sex, education, and Mini-Mental State Examination score.<br><br>RESULTS: Compared with the group with probable AD, the group with probable DLB scored significantly lower on the picture arrangement, block design, object assembly, and digit symbol substitution subtests of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised and on the Raven Colored Progressive Matrices test and significantly higher on the Mini-Mental State Examination locational orientation subtest and the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale word recall subtest. A discriminant analysis revealed that the word recall score on the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale and the block design score on the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised were the best discriminant factors.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The disproportionately severe visuoperceptual, visuoconstructive, and visuospatial dysfunction and the disproportionately mild memory impairment in DLB compared with AD, which likely reflect the distribution of the pathologic changes in DLB, can help to differentiate DLB from AD.}, }
@article {pmid9857569, year = {1998}, author = {Wójtowicz-Kaczmarek, K}, title = {Morphometric study of the muscles spindles of the eye muscle in human fetuses between 24-29 weeks.}, journal = {Folia morphologica}, volume = {57}, number = {3}, pages = {221-228}, pmid = {9857569}, issn = {0015-5659}, mesh = {Embryonic and Fetal Development/physiology ; Gestational Age ; Humans ; Muscle Spindles/*embryology ; Oculomotor Muscles/*embryology ; }, abstract = {The studies were carried out on human fetuses with the crow-rump length between 230 to 270 mm (24-29 weeks). The length of recti muscles varies from 12-15 mm in 24th week to 25-28 mm in 29th week. Number of muscle spindles varies from 29-36 in 24th week to 54-59 in 29th week. The length of the muscle spindles is from 30-300 microns in 24th week to 40-450 microns in 29th week. The diameter of the muscle spindles varies from 11-36 microns in 24th week to 15-70 microns in 29th week.}, }
@article {pmid9819322, year = {1998}, author = {Heinrich, B and Pepper, Jw}, title = {Influence of competitors on caching behaviour in the common raven, Corvus corax.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {56}, number = {5}, pages = {1083-1090}, doi = {10.1006/anbe.1998.0906}, pmid = {9819322}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {Both territorial breeding common ravens and nonbreeding vagrants scatter-hoard carcass meat extensively. We show experimentally with four captive nonbreeders in a large semi-natural enclosure that common ravens alter their caching behaviour in the presence of conspecifics. When four birds were simultaneously given a small amount of food, which any one bird by itself could easily remove in several trips, all four birds decreased the latency to begin caching and increased caching speed. In contrast, when the four birds were given only enough food for a single individual to control, caching was greatly delayed. If, as these results suggest, competition between conspecifics over food sources induces caching behaviour, then individuals should cache close to the food source to reduce travelling time and increase the time available to effectively compete for food in the presence of conspecifics. Here we show, that in the presence of competitors, common ravens instead cached further from the food source, provided they had space into which they could escape from the sight of the competitors. When escape from competitor vigilance was not possible, common ravens delayed caching and/or hid food when the competitor was preoccupied. A second factor that influenced caching behaviour was cache robbing; ravens not only recovered their own caches, but also routinely recovered the caches they saw others make. Copyright 1998 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid9790707, year = {1998}, author = {Kono, H and Reid, PJ and Kamil, AC}, title = {The effect of background cuing on prey detection.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {56}, number = {4}, pages = {963-972}, doi = {10.1006/anbe.1998.0847}, pmid = {9790707}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {Studies of prey detection have typically focused on how search image affects the capture of cryptic items. This study also considers how background vegetation influences cryptic prey detection. Blue jays, Cyanocitta cristata, searched digitized images for two Catocala moths: C. ilia, which is cryptic on oak, and C. relicta, which is cryptic on birch. Some images contained moths while others did not. The ability of blue jays to detect prey during repeated presentations of one prey type within a session was compared with their performance during randomly alternating presentations of both prey types within a session to examine search-image formation under two background conditions (informative and ambiguous). In the informative background condition, both trees in the image were of the same species and therefore, the background was a reliable indicator of which prey type might be present. In the ambiguous background condition, there was one tree of each species in the image and either prey type could be present. The results indicate that: (1) a search-image effect was observed only for the more cryptic prey type and only when the background was informative; (2) as accuracy on prey images (those with moths) increased, response latency remained unchanged; (3) performance on nonprey images (those without moths) was primarily determined by the difficulty of searching the background and not by the prey type in the accompanying prey images; and (4) search-image effects disappeared with extended practice. These results suggest that the ability to detect prey is influenced by background and that the presence of either multiple backgrounds or multiple prey types interferes with search-image formation. Copyright 1998 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour.}, }
@article {pmid9843009, year = {1998}, author = {Creidi, P and Vienne, MP and Ochonisky, S and Lauze, C and Turlier, V and Lagarde, JM and Dupuy, P}, title = {Profilometric evaluation of photodamage after topical retinaldehyde and retinoic acid treatment.}, journal = {Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology}, volume = {39}, number = {6}, pages = {960-965}, doi = {10.1016/s0190-9622(98)70270-1}, pmid = {9843009}, issn = {0190-9622}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Female ; Humans ; Keratolytic Agents/*therapeutic use ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Ointments ; Pharmaceutical Vehicles/*therapeutic use ; Reference Values ; Retinaldehyde/*therapeutic use ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Tretinoin/*therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: We compared the activity and tolerance profile of a 0.05% retinaldehyde cream with a 0.05% retinoic acid cream and the retinaldehyde vehicle in patients with photodamaged skin of the face.<br><br>METHODS: A silicone replica of the left crow's feet area was taken at baseline and at weeks 18 and 44. Skin replicas were then analyzed by means of an optical profilometry technique. Standard wrinkle and roughness features were then calculated and statistically analyzed. The tolerance profile of the test products was also clinically evaluated during the entire study.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 125 patients (40 in the retinoic acid group, 40 in the retinaldehyde group, and 45 in the vehicle group) were studied. At week 18, a significant reduction of the wrinkle and roughness features was observed with both retinaldehyde and retinoic acid. At week 44, a less pronounced reduction was demonstrated in both active groups. No statistically significant changes were observed with the retinaldehyde vehicle at any assessment point. A total of 135 patients constituted the safety population. Retinaldehyde was well tolerated during the entire study. In contrast, retinoic acid caused more local irritation, and affected compliance of the patients.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Retinaldehyde was efficacious and well tolerated in patients with photodamage.}, }
@article {pmid9834736, year = {1998}, author = {Hankins, CL and Strimling, R and Rogers, GS}, title = {Botulinum A toxin for glabellar wrinkles. Dose and response.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {24}, number = {11}, pages = {1181-1183}, doi = {10.1111/j.1524-4725.1998.tb04095.x}, pmid = {9834736}, issn = {1076-0512}, mesh = {Animals ; Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*administration &amp; dosage ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Facial Muscles/*drug effects/innervation ; Female ; Humans ; Lethal Dose 50 ; Mice ; Muscle Denervation ; Neuromuscular Agents/*administration &amp; dosage ; Safety ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Botulinum A exotoxin injection is a well-established method for treatment of glabellar frown lines, crow's feet, and horizontal furrows of the forehead. However, there is no consensus as to the optimal dosage per injection site or the concentration of injectate to be used.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the minimal effective dose per injection site to be used as well as the effect of concentration in response to treatment.<br><br>RESULTS: A total of 46 subjects were divided into ten groups and injected with escalating doses and concentrations of botulinum toxin. The response and longevity of treatment were then followed on a monthly basis. A dose between 2.5-4 U per injection site (12.5-20 U total) was determined to be an effective starting dose, with a duration of 2-5 months (median 14 weeks).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: There was no statistically significant difference in safety or efficacy for concentrations ranging from 50 to 200 U/ml of botulinum toxin.}, }
@article {pmid9827004, year = {1998}, author = {Denef, C and Van Bael, A}, title = {A new family of growth and differentiation factors derived from the N-terminal domain of proopiomelanocortin (N-POMC).}, journal = {Comparative biochemistry and physiology. Part C, Pharmacology, toxicology &amp; endocrinology}, volume = {119}, number = {3}, pages = {317-324}, doi = {10.1016/s0742-8413(98)00020-6}, pmid = {9827004}, issn = {1367-8280}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Cell Differentiation/genetics/physiology ; Growth Substances/*genetics/*physiology ; Humans ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Pituitary Gland/physiology ; Pro-Opiomelanocortin/*genetics/*physiology ; Rats ; }, abstract = {There is a large body of in vitro evidence that pituitary function is not only dependent on hormonal signals from the brain but also on paracrine signals produced in the tissue itself. These signals appear to be involved in the control of pituitary hormone secretion as well as in pituitary cell differentiation and development (for review see Denef C. Paracrine mechanisms in the pituitary. In: Imura H, editor. The pituitary gland, 2nd ed. Raven Press, 1994: 351-378; Denef C. Autocrine/paracrine intermediates in hormone action and modulation of cellular responses to hormones. In: Conn M, editor. Handbook of Physiology. New York: Oxford University Press, 1998 (in press)). The paracrine factors which have been identified in the pituitary belong to diverse biological molecules such as neuropeptides, acetylcholine, growth factors, cytokines and posttranslationally modified derivatives of pituitary hormone such as cleaved prolactin (PRL) and the gonadotropin alpha-subunit. Recently, we have identified several N-terminal fragments of the polypeptide proopiomelanocortin (POMC) as a novel family of growth and differentiation factors in the rat anterior pituitary.}, }
@article {pmid9819481, year = {1998}, author = {Kiese-Himmel, C and Kruse, E}, title = {[Higher touch and kinesthetic functions in children with former speech/language development disorders: a neuropsychological study].}, journal = {Folia phoniatrica et logopaedica : official organ of the International Association of Logopedics and Phoniatrics (IALP)}, volume = {50}, number = {4}, pages = {195-204}, doi = {10.1159/000021461}, pmid = {9819481}, issn = {1021-7762}, mesh = {Child ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Functional Laterality ; Humans ; *Kinesthesis ; Language Development Disorders/*diagnosis ; Male ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Speech Disorders/*diagnosis ; *Touch ; }, abstract = {Two groups of children took part in this study to test the hypothesis that children diagnosed in infancy as specific speech/language-impaired have deficits in tactile-kinesthetic functions: A formerly clinical group of 25 German-speaking pupils with a mean age of 8;7 years (SD 7.1 months) who have previously been identified as specific speech/language-impaired (on average at 4;11 years, SD 10.6 months) and a control group of 25 normal pupils in elementary school without a former or actual speech/language disorder (mean age: 9;2 years, SD 8.3 months). The control group was matched with the formerly clinical group for gender and age. Performance scores of both groups on a nonverbal intelligence test (the Raven's Matrices), on a tactile-kinesthetic subtest (Berliner-Luria-Neuropsychologisches Verfahren f¿r Kinder), and on a developmental language test (Heidelberger Sprachentwick- lungstest) were compared. There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) in the mean tactile-kinesthetic performance of both groups (3.1 vs. 4.0) who present a nearly identical nonverbal intelligence. Thirty-two percent of the formerly clinical group demonstrated a performance below the norm. Analysis of the laterality did not reveal significant differences in performance between left and right hand, neither in right-handers nor in left-handers of both groups. Nevertheless right-handers demonstrated on average a better somatosensory performance with their left hand. Mean language and tactile-kinesthetic performance correlate significantly in the formerly clinical group (r = 0.45, p < 0.05), but not in the control group (r = 0.08). The formerly clinical group was inferior in performance to the normal subjects especially in complex functions as in the tactile discrimination of sharp/blunt and in topognosia.}, }
@article {pmid9818559, year = {1998}, author = {Lynn, R}, title = {Sex differences in intelligence: a rejoinder to Mackintosh.}, journal = {Journal of biosocial science}, volume = {30}, number = {4}, pages = {529-32; discussion 533-9}, doi = {10.1017/s002193209800529x}, pmid = {9818559}, issn = {0021-9320}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Psychometrics ; *Sex Characteristics ; }, abstract = {The author's theory that among adults men have a higher mean IQ than women has been critized by Mackintosh. His criticisms are examined and found wanting. New evidence is adduced that men obtain higher means than women on Raven's Progressive Matrices.}, }
@article {pmid9804116, year = {1998}, author = {Counter, SA and Buchanan, LH and Rosas, HD and Ortega, F}, title = {Neurocognitive effects of chronic lead intoxication in Andean children.}, journal = {Journal of the neurological sciences}, volume = {160}, number = {1}, pages = {47-53}, doi = {10.1016/s0022-510x(98)00180-4}, pmid = {9804116}, issn = {0022-510X}, mesh = {Ceramics ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition Disorders/*chemically induced/diagnosis/epidemiology ; Ecuador/epidemiology ; Environmental Exposure ; Female ; Humans ; Industry ; Lead/blood ; Lead Poisoning/epidemiology/*psychology ; Male ; Nervous System Diseases/*chemically induced/diagnosis/epidemiology ; Neurologic Examination ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Occupational Exposure ; Psychomotor Performance ; }, abstract = {Lead (Pb) intoxication in children has been associated with neurodevelopmental disabilities which may result in motor and cognitive impairment. We conducted blood lead (PbB) measurements, neurological examinations and cognitive tests on children living in Ecuadorian villages where Pb is used extensively in the glazing of ceramics. Group I consisted of 55 children with a mean PbB level of 48.0 microg/dl (SD: 26.4, range: 9.2-119.1 microg/dl) who received PbB tests and complete neurological examinations. An appreciable number of the children with elevated PbB levels were normal on specific components of the neurological examination. Among the children who showed neurological deficits, higher PbB levels were associated with abnormal tendon reflexes, finger tapping, visual pursuit, size discrimination, draw-a-person, and math calculation skills. Group II consisted of 41 children with a mean PbB level of 47.4 microg/dl (SD: 22.0, range: 6.6-84.7 microg/dl) who were administered Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) non-verbal reasoning test. Performance on RCPM was abnormal in 22 (53.7%) of 41 children. Children with abnormal RCPM scores had higher PbB levels (t-test: P=0.030). There was a significant inverse correlation between RCPM scores and PbB levels for children ages 9 years and older (r=-0.618, P=0.011). Males had higher mean PbB levels as a function of age than females (t-test: P=0.037), and more males showed neurocognitive deficits. The results demonstrate a range of neurological responses in children with chronically elevated PbB levels from apparent exceptional neuro-physiological tolerance of PbB intoxication, to some fine motor and cognitive deficits.}, }
@article {pmid9802510, year = {1998}, author = {Caine, NG}, title = {Cutting costs in response to predatory threat by Geoffroy's marmosets (Callithrix geoffroyi).}, journal = {American journal of primatology}, volume = {46}, number = {3}, pages = {187-196}, doi = {10.1002/(SICI)1098-2345(1998)46:3&lt;187::AID-AJP1&gt;3.0.CO;2-B}, pmid = {9802510}, issn = {0275-2565}, mesh = {Animals ; Callithrix/*physiology ; Escape Reaction/*physiology ; Female ; Locomotion ; Male ; Predatory Behavior/*physiology ; Risk Assessment ; }, abstract = {Ideally, prey should respond to their predators efficiently, without over- or underreacting to the threat. This may be particularly important for small-bodied species for whom metabolic demands are high and predatory risk is great. In the current study, two family groups of Callithrix geoffroyi living outside in a rural setting at the Center for Reproduction of Endangered Species, San Diego Wild Animal Park, were observed before, during, and after ten presentations of a great horned owl model. The owl was mounted on a post on a nearby hillside, simulating a situation in which a real but nonimminent threat is posed. As controls, a model of a crow and a cloth bag were also presented, each for ten trials. During the 10 min presentations of the owl, rates of play and foraging decreased, and rates of locomotion and vigilant looking increased from baseline rates. Data on occupation of the best viewing area suggest that the marmosets shared the job of monitoring a potential threat. After the owl was removed, behavior quickly returned to baseline rates, with the exception of looking at the place where the owl had been, and play. Neither the bag nor the crow generated significant differences from the baseline condition that preceded it. Marmosets may reduce the costs of antipredator behavior by appropriately assessing the degree of risk and by quickly resuming important activities once a potential threat has passed.}, }
@article {pmid9784887, year = {1998}, author = {Wogar, MA and van den Broek, MD and Bradshaw, CM and Szabadi, E}, title = {A new performance-curve method for the detection of simulated cognitive impairment.}, journal = {The British journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {37}, number = {3}, pages = {327-339}, doi = {10.1111/j.2044-8260.1998.tb01389.x}, pmid = {9784887}, issn = {0144-6657}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Brain Injuries/complications ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Malingering/*diagnosis ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate a new performance-curve method for detecting simulated cognitive impairment.<br><br>DESIGN: The method was based on quantitative analysis of choice reaction times in a series of eight matching-to-sample tasks of graded complexity, in which participants were required to identify which of two comparison stimuli was identical to a simultaneously presented sample stimulus. The stimuli consisted of arrays of letters, the number of letters ranging from 1 to 10 in the eight tasks.<br><br>METHODS: Mean reaction times of a standardization group of 20 healthy young adults were used to construct regression equations to describe the behaviour of three test groups: 20 healthy individuals instructed to perform to the best of their ability (non-simulators), 20 healthy individuals instructed to simulate cognitive impairment incurred as a result of a head injury (simulators), and 25 patients with a history of closed head injury (patients).<br><br>RESULTS: There was a linear relationship between individual participants' latencies and the mean latencies of the standardization sample; the patient group showed steeper slopes, and the simulators higher intercepts, than the non-simulator group. A univariate measure of performance, based on the proportionate increase in latency corresponding to a standard increase in the standardization group's latency was able to identify 14/20 simulators while misclassifying 2/20 non-simulators and 2/25 patients. Other measures, including the number of errors made in the choice reaction time task and in recognition memory tasks, and a performance-curve measure based on Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices, were less successful in identifying simulators.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This new performance-curve method may prove to be a useful addition to tests currently used to diagnose simulated cognitive impairment in clinical and medicolegal settings.}, }
@article {pmid9773481, year = {1998}, author = {Menge, H and Lang, A and Cuntze, H}, title = {[Pica in Germany--amylophagia as the etiology of iron deficiency anemia].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Gastroenterologie}, volume = {36}, number = {8}, pages = {635-640}, pmid = {9773481}, issn = {0044-2771}, mesh = {Adult ; Anemia, Iron-Deficiency/*etiology ; Child ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Female ; Germany ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Pica/*complications ; Pregnancy ; *Starch ; }, abstract = {Pica (pica = magpie) is an eating disorder that is manifested by a craving for oral ingestion of a given substance that is unusual in kind (nonfood items) or quantity (food items). Pica has been described as a world wide phenomenon, but there are more frequent occurrences of selected substances among selected groups--especially young children and black pregnant and nonpregnant women in the southern part of the USA. In Central Europe and Germany this syndrome has not been described in the moderne literature. For this reason, we report a case of pica for starch associated with severe iron deficiency anemia in Germany. Iron deficiency anemia and--less often-potassium and zinc deficiency are the main complications of an excessive starch or clay ingestion, followed by gastrointestinal obstructions due to gastroliths or impaction. Additionally, naphtalene poisoning (in pica for toilet air-freshener blocks), phosphorus poisoning (in matches pica), mercury poisoning (in paper pica), and lead poisoning (in dried paint pica) have been described.}, }
@article {pmid9772018, year = {1998}, author = {Fujimori, M and Imamura, T and Yamashita, H and Hirono, N and Ikejiri, Y and Shimomura, T and Mori, E}, title = {Age at onset and visuocognitive disturbances in Alzheimer disease.}, journal = {Alzheimer disease and associated disorders}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, pages = {163-166}, doi = {10.1097/00002093-199809000-00007}, pmid = {9772018}, issn = {0893-0341}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Alzheimer Disease/*diagnosis/psychology ; Attention ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/psychology ; Discrimination Learning ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Recall ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Perceptual Disorders/*diagnosis/psychology ; Problem Solving ; Psychometrics ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {We examined the relation of age at onset and visuocognitive disturbances in Alzheimer disease (AD) using a large sample of patients, quantitative neuropsychological measures, and multivariate statistics controlling for gender, education, stage of dementia, and disease duration. Significant positive coefficients were obtained with forward and backward digit and visual spans, visual counting, copying Rey complex figure, and block design task. The results indicated that patients with early-onset AD performed worse than late-onset AD patients on these tasks. There was no significant effect of age at onset on identification of overlapping figures, visual form discrimination, or Raven's colored progressive matrices. These findings confirm the greater attentional and visuospatial impairments in early onset patients when these confounding factors were controlled for, although no significant effect of age at onset in visuoperceptual function was observed.}, }
@article {pmid9772017, year = {1998}, author = {Gainotti, G and Marra, C and Villa, G and Parlato, V and Chiarotti, F}, title = {Sensitivity and specificity of some neuropsychological markers of Alzheimer dementia.}, journal = {Alzheimer disease and associated disorders}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, pages = {152-162}, doi = {10.1097/00002093-199809000-00006}, pmid = {9772017}, issn = {0893-0341}, mesh = {Aged ; Alzheimer Disease/*diagnosis/psychology ; Dementia/diagnosis/psychology ; Dementia, Multi-Infarct/diagnosis/psychology ; Depressive Disorder/diagnosis/psychology ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Factitious Disorders/diagnosis/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Parkinson Disease/diagnosis/psychology ; Psychometrics ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Supranuclear Palsy, Progressive/diagnosis/psychology ; }, abstract = {A standardized neuropsychological test battery was administered to 167 patients with different forms of mild-to-moderate dementia: probable Alzheimer dementia (AD: n = 49), multi-infarct dementia (n = 43), idiopathic Parkinson disease with dementia (n = 35), depressive pseudodementia (n = 26), and progressive supranuclear palsy (n = 14). Results obtained were used (a) to analyze the profiles of cognitive impairment shown by the different dementia groups; (b) to assess the incidence of some neuropsychological patterns that we hypothesized to be more characteristic of AD, in the various groups; and hence (c) to evaluate the reliability of these patterns as diagnostic markers of AD. Four of the patterns investigated were derived from a verbal learning task (Rey's Auditory Verbal Learning test): (1) absence of the primacy effect; (2) tendency to produce intrusion errors during free recall of a word list; (3) absolute decay of memory trace; and (4) tendency to produce false alarms during delayed recognition of the same word list. Two additional patterns were derived from visual-spatial tasks (copying drawings and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices): (5) occurrence of the closing-in phenomenon in copying drawings; and (6) tendency to choose globalistic or odd responses in Raven's matrices. Though all the six patterns were somewhat useful for identifying AD patients, no pattern met the criteria of being both highly sensitive and highly specific, which should characterize an ideal marker. In fact, intrusions and false alarms were observed in many AD patients, but also in patients affected by other forms of dementia. The absence of the primacy effect, the closing-in phenomenon, and the absolute decay of memory trace were more specific, but could be observed in only one-third of AD patients. We also computed the number of positive patterns shown by each patient and assumed the presence of two or more patterns as a global index suggestive of a dementia of the Alzheimer type. With this cumulative method, a higher level of sensitivity and specificity was achieved in the identification of AD patients.}, }
@article {pmid9771661, year = {1998}, author = {Watanabe, O and Maruyama, I and Arimura, K and Kitajima, I and Arimura, H and Hanatani, M and Matsuo, K and Arisato, T and Osame, M}, title = {Overproduction of vascular endothelial growth factor/vascular permeability factor is causative in Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome.}, journal = {Muscle &amp; nerve}, volume = {21}, number = {11}, pages = {1390-1397}, doi = {10.1002/(sici)1097-4598(199811)21:11&lt;1390::aid-mus5&gt;3.0.co;2-4}, pmid = {9771661}, issn = {0148-639X}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Blotting, Western ; Connectin ; Endothelial Growth Factors/analysis/*blood/chemistry ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay ; Female ; Humans ; Immunoglobulins/analysis ; Immunotherapy ; Isomerism ; Lymphokines/analysis/*blood/chemistry ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Molecular Weight ; Muscle Proteins/analysis/blood ; *Myeloma Proteins ; POEMS Syndrome/*etiology/*metabolism/therapy ; Polyneuropathies/etiology/metabolism/therapy ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors ; }, abstract = {Crow-Fukase or POEMS syndrome of polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M-protein, and skin changes is a rare multisystem disorder of obscure pathogenesis that is associated with microangiopathy, neovascularization, and accelerated vasopermeability. We examined the levels of the vascular endothelial growth factor/vascular permeability factor (VEGF) in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from 10 patients with this syndrome. Serum VEGF levels were about 15-30 times those in control subjects or patients with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), and other neurological disorders. The CSF VEGF levels, however, were similar to those found in GBS and CIDP. Elevated VEGF levels in the serum decreased in 7 patients with Crow-Fukase syndrome after conventional therapy. The principal isoform of VEGF in Crow-Fukase syndrome was VEGF165. Elevated VEGF was independent of M-protein. Our results suggest that the overproduction of VEGF is important in the pathogenesis of this disorder.}, }
@article {pmid9763168, year = {1998}, author = {Mehta, JA and Brown, C and Sargeant, N}, title = {Charcot restraint orthotic walker.}, journal = {Foot &amp; ankle international}, volume = {19}, number = {9}, pages = {619-623}, doi = {10.1177/107110079801900909}, pmid = {9763168}, issn = {1071-1007}, mesh = {Adult ; Arthropathy, Neurogenic/*therapy ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Orthotic Devices ; }, abstract = {Five patients (three with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), one with noninsulin dependent diabetes mettlitus (NIDDM), and one with hereditary sensorimotor neuropathy (HSMN)) with stage 1 Charcot's neuroarthropathy involving the midfoot and or subtalar and ankle joints were fitted with a Charcot restraint orthotic walker (CROW). The rationale for this orthotic management was to maintain a plantigrade foot for ambulation and to protect the joints and skin by the uniform transfer or distribution of weight over the foot until the time when the pathology reached the stage of coalescence. The patients were able to fully bear weight and to ambulate with the CROW. All patients noted varying measures of improvement in symptoms and function at an average 12-month follow-up. The CROW is a useful orthosis in the armamentarium for treating neuroarthropathy of the pedal joints.}, }
@article {pmid9754879, year = {1998}, author = {Rijsdijk, FV and Vernon, PA and Boomsma, DI}, title = {The genetic basis of the relation between speed-of-information-processing and IQ.}, journal = {Behavioural brain research}, volume = {95}, number = {1}, pages = {77-84}, doi = {10.1016/s0166-4328(97)00212-x}, pmid = {9754879}, issn = {0166-4328}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Mental Processes/*physiology ; Models, Genetic ; Multivariate Analysis ; Phenotype ; Reaction Time/physiology ; Twin Studies as Topic ; }, abstract = {The relationship of speed-of-information-processing (SIP), as derived from reaction times (RTs) on experimental tasks, and intelligence has been extensively studied. SIP is suggested to measure the efficiency with which subjects can perform basic cognitive operations underlying a wide range of intellectual abilities. Observed phenotypic correlations between RT and IQ typically are in the -0.2 to -0.4 range, and the question is addressed to what extent this relationship is determined by genetic or environmental influences. In a group of Dutch twins the heritabilities for RT tasks at age 16 and 18 years were estimated longitudinally and the nature of the RT-IQ relationship was investigated. At age 16 years heritabilities for a simple reaction time (SRT) and choice reaction time (CRT) were 64 and 62% and the average phenotypic correlations between the RTs and IQ, assessed by the Raven standard progressive matrices, was -0.21. At the second test occasion lower heritabilities were observed for the RTs, probably due to modifications in administration procedures. The mean correlations between the RTs and WAIS verbal and per formal subtests were -0.18 and -0.16. Multivariate genetic analyses at both ages showed that the RT-IQ correlations were explained by genetic influences. These results are in agreement with earlier findings (Baker et al., Behav Genet 1991;21:351-67; Ho et al., Behav Genet 1988;18:247-61) and support the existence of a common, heritable biological basis underlying the SIP-IQ relationship.}, }
@article {pmid9754125, year = {1998}, author = {Goldszal, AF and Davatzikos, C and Pham, DL and Yan, MX and Bryan, RN and Resnick, SM}, title = {An image-processing system for qualitative and quantitative volumetric analysis of brain images.}, journal = {Journal of computer assisted tomography}, volume = {22}, number = {5}, pages = {827-837}, doi = {10.1097/00004728-199809000-00030}, pmid = {9754125}, issn = {0363-8715}, support = {AG-93-07/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aged ; Bayes Theorem ; Brain/*pathology ; Equipment Design ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/*instrumentation/methods/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/*instrumentation/methods/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Phantoms, Imaging ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {In this work, we developed, implemented, and validated an image-processing system for qualitative and quantitative volumetric analysis of brain images. This system allows the visualization and quantitation of global and regional brain volumes. Global volumes were obtained via an automated adaptive Bayesian segmentation technique that labels the brain into white matter, gray matter, and cerebrospinal fluid. Absolute volumetric errors for these compartments ranged between 1 and 3% as indicated by phantom studies. Quantitation of regional brain volumes was performed through normalization and tessellation of segmented brain images into the Talairach space with a 3D elastic warping model. Retest reliability of regional volumes measured in Talairach space indicated errors of < 1.5% for the frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital brain regions. Additional regional analysis was performed with an automated hybrid method combining a region-of-interest approach and voxel-based analysis, named Regional Analysis of Volumes Examined in Normalized Space (RAVENS). RAVENS analysis for several subcortical structures showed good agreement with operator-defined volumes. This system has sufficient accuracy for longitudinal imaging data and is currently being used in the analysis of neuroimaging data of the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging.}, }
@article {pmid9751827, year = {1998}, author = {Birkinshaw, CR and Colquhoun, IC}, title = {Pollination of Ravenala madagascariensis and Parkia madagascariensis by Eulemur macaco in Madagascar.}, journal = {Folia primatologica; international journal of primatology}, volume = {69}, number = {5}, pages = {252-259}, doi = {10.1159/000021634}, pmid = {9751827}, issn = {1421-9980}, abstract = {Primates are known to be important in dispersal of seeds of tropical rainforest trees, but their role in pollination is very poorly documented. Although the 'traveller's palm' Ravenala madagascariensis is widespread, only a single well-documented report exists for its pollination by Malagasy prosimians. Black lemurs, Eulemur macaco, exploit nectaries of Parkia as well as Ravenala systematically at the massifs of Ambato and Lokobe, and almost certainly contribute substantially to their pollination, confirming a proposal first made by Sussman and Raven [Science 1978;200: 731-736].}, }
@article {pmid9751053, year = {1998}, author = {Clayton, NS and Dickinson, A}, title = {Episodic-like memory during cache recovery by scrub jays.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {395}, number = {6699}, pages = {272-274}, doi = {10.1038/26216}, pmid = {9751053}, issn = {0028-0836}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Food Preferences ; Learning ; Memory/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The recollection of past experiences allows us to recall what a particular event was, and where and when it occurred, a form of memory that is thought to be unique to humans. It is known, however, that food-storing birds remember the spatial location and contents of their caches. Furthermore, food-storing animals adapt their caching and recovery strategies to the perishability of food stores, which suggests that they are sensitive to temporal factors. Here we show that scrub jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) remember 'when' food items are stored by allowing them to recover perishable 'wax worms' (wax-moth larvae) and non-perishable peanuts which they had previously cached in visuospatially distinct sites. Jays searched preferentially for fresh wax worms, their favoured food, when allowed to recover them shortly after caching. However, they rapidly learned to avoid searching for worms after a longer interval during which the worms had decayed. The recovery preference of jays demonstrates memory of where and when particular food items were cached, thereby fulfilling the behavioural criteria for episodic-like memory in non-human animals.}, }
@article {pmid9745114, year = {1998}, author = {Duckworth, RM and Lynch, RJ}, title = {Fluoride uptake to demineralised enamel: A comparison of sampling techniques.}, journal = {Caries research}, volume = {32}, number = {6}, pages = {417-421}, doi = {10.1159/000016481}, pmid = {9745114}, issn = {0008-6568}, mesh = {Acid Etching, Dental ; Animals ; Carbon Compounds, Inorganic ; Cariostatic Agents/analysis/*pharmacokinetics ; Cattle ; Dental Enamel/chemistry/*metabolism/ultrastructure ; Dentifrices ; Fluorides/analysis/*pharmacokinetics ; Ion-Selective Electrodes ; Perchlorates/chemistry ; Silicon Compounds ; Tooth Demineralization/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Fluoride uptake is a recognised way of assessing the potential anticaries efficacy of fluoride (F) treatments. The aim of the present study was to compare an abrasion method of sampling treated enamel, based on that of Weatherell et al. [Caries Res 1985;19:97-102], with the acid-etch method of Raven et al. [Caries Res 1991;25:130-137]. Two adjacent demineralised areas were created on the polished surfaces of bovine incisors using an acid gel system. One artificial lesion from each tooth was subsequently treated for 6 h at 37 degrees C with one of two fluoridated dentifrice slurries (1 part: 3 parts water), whereas the other was treated similarly with a slurry of non-F control dentifrice. One set of treated lesions was then separated, the base of each enamel block polished until planoparallel with the demineralised surface and the lesions isolated by cutting away the adjacent sound enamel. Each block was mounted on the probe of a digital micrometer and the demineralised surface abraded with silicon carbide lapping film until sound material was reached. Abraded material was dissolved in perchloric acid and the buffered solution analysed for fluoride by ion-selective electrode. Each lesion of a second set of treated, demineralised enamel blocks was etched by 20microl acid and the resulting solutions analysed for F. Mean F uptakes [microg cm-2 (SD)] were: abrasion (n = 7/treatment); F dentifrice A = 1.39 (0.89) and B = 0.86 (0.45) relative to non-F controls = 0.11 (0.12), 0.14 (0.06), respectively; and acid-etch (n = 14/treatment); A = 1.27 (0. 49), B = 0.69 (0.23), controls = 0.12 (0.06), 0.12 (0.06), respectively. Significant differences (p<0.05) for both data sets were: A>B> control. The results show good agreement between the sampling methods and demonstrate the ability of the abrasion technique to distinguish between F treatments.}, }
@article {pmid9744024, year = {1998}, author = {Emanuelson, I and von Wendt, L and Beckung, E and Hagberg, I}, title = {Late outcome after severe traumatic brain injury in children and adolescents.}, journal = {Pediatric rehabilitation}, volume = {2}, number = {2}, pages = {65-70}, doi = {10.3109/17518429809068157}, pmid = {9744024}, issn = {1363-8491}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Brain Injuries/psychology/*rehabilitation ; *Cognition ; *Children with Disabilities/classification ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Motor Skills ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Eighteen surviving adolescents with severe traumatic brain injury were re-examined a mean period of 7.1 years after their trauma in order to determine their life situation, motor, cognitive functions and pattern of handicap.<br><br>METHODS: A structured interview, the EB test of motor function, Ravens's progressive matrices, Peabody's neuropsychological test, SPIQ and the WHO classification of handicap were used.<br><br>RESULTS: The group had a mean WHO Classification of Handicap score of 1.61 (SD 1.60) revealing mild handicap, and performed as a group significantly subnormal (p < 0.0001) in gross motor, fine motor, sensibility and perception sub-tests. The EB test revealed a mean value of 2.23 (SD 0.89) corresponding to mild disability. The mean non-verbal IQ score of 93.1 (SD 13.9) and the verbal score of 93.4 (SD 14.8) were within normal limits.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Only 28% of the group of surviving adolescent TBI victims functioned within normal limits. The most crucial disabling component was poor social integration, which was clearly demonstrated in the WHO score.}, }
@article {pmid9736861, year = {1998}, author = {Judd, LL}, title = {NIMH during the tenure of Director Lewis L. Judd, M.D. (1987-1990): the decade of the brain and the four national research plans.}, journal = {The American journal of psychiatry}, volume = {155}, number = {9 Suppl}, pages = {25-31}, pmid = {9736861}, issn = {0002-953X}, mesh = {Administrative Personnel/history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Mental Disorders/history ; National Institute of Mental Health (U.S.)/*history/organization &amp; administration ; Neurosciences/history ; Research/history ; United States ; }, abstract = {My tenure at NIMH was an exhilarating, heady time of great satisfaction and achievement for all of us at the Institute. I have great affection and loyalty for NIMH, but my fondest memories are of the individuals who led and staffed the Institute's programs while I was there. One of the most gratifying aspects of my tenure was the opportunity to recruit and appoint people to new responsibilities and to interact with and support them as they grew into and beyond their positions of leadership within NIMH. When I left NIMH, I felt that the Institute's managers and staff were unparalleled in their creativity, competence, commitment, loyalty, and sheer hard work on behalf of the Institute and our field. My thanks and deep gratitude genuinely go out to the entire staff at NIMH during my tenure. However, a special debt of gratitude is owed to a group of colleagues and friends who, at my request, carried very heavy responsibilities and excelled in meeting them: Dr. Alan Leshner (Deputy Director of NIMH, now Director of NIDA); Dr. Stephen Koslow, Dr. Stephen Paul, Dr. Jack "Jay" Burke, Dr. David Segal, Dr. Ira Glick, Dr. Ellen Stover, Dr. Irene Levine, Dr. Daryl Kirsch, Dr. Rex Cowdry, Dr. Sam Keith, Dr. Delores Paron, Leroy Goldman, Richard Pine, William Fitzsimmons, Gordon Seidenberg, Lewis Steinberg, Gemma Weiblinger, George Halter, and my invaluable assistant, Margaret Shanley.}, }
@article {pmid9725129, year = {1998}, author = {Xia, P and Verhey, LJ}, title = {Multileaf collimator leaf sequencing algorithm for intensity modulated beams with multiple static segments.}, journal = {Medical physics}, volume = {25}, number = {8}, pages = {1424-1434}, doi = {10.1118/1.598315}, pmid = {9725129}, issn = {0094-2405}, mesh = {Algorithms ; Humans ; Models, Theoretical ; Neoplasms/*radiotherapy ; Radiotherapy/*instrumentation/*methods ; *Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {The "stop and shoot" method of producing intensity modulation using combinations of static multileaf collimator (MLC) segments has a number of advantages including precise dose delivery, easy verification, and general availability. However, due to the potential limitation of prolonged treatment time, it is essential to keep the number of required segments to a reasonable number. We propose an algorithm to minimize the number of segments for an intensity modulated field. In this algorithm, the sequence of delivery intensity is proposed to be a series of powers of 2, depending on the maximum intensity level in the matrix. The MLC leaf position sequence is designed directly on the two-dimensional intensity matrix to irradiate the largest possible area in each segment. The algorithm can be applied directly to MLC systems with different motion constraints. This algorithm has been evaluated by generating 1000 random 15 x 15 cm intensity matrices, each having from 3 to 16 intensity levels. Five clinical intensity modulated fields generated from the NOMOS CORVUS planning system for a complex clinical head and neck case were also tested with this and two other algorithms. The results of both the statistical and clinical studies showed that for all the intensity matrices tested, the proposed algorithm results in the smallest number of segments with a moderately increased monitor units. Thus it is well-suited for use in static MLC intensity modulation beam delivery. For MLC systems with interleaf motion constraint, we prove mathematically that this constraint reduces the tongue and groove effect at the expense of an increase of 25% in the number of segments.}, }
@article {pmid9720270, year = {1998}, author = {Clark, AG}, title = {Mutation-selection balance with multiple alleles.}, journal = {Genetica}, volume = {102-103}, number = {1-6}, pages = {41-47}, pmid = {9720270}, issn = {0016-6707}, mesh = {Alleles ; BRCA1 Protein/genetics ; Breast Neoplasms/genetics ; Cystic Fibrosis/genetics ; Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator/genetics ; Female ; Gene Frequency ; Genetic Diseases, Inborn/*genetics ; Humans ; *Models, Genetic ; Models, Statistical ; Muscular Dystrophies/genetics ; *Mutation ; Phenylketonurias/genetics ; *Selection, Genetic ; Ureohydrolases/genetics ; }, abstract = {Human genetic disorders provide an extraordinary richness of data on the diversity of defective alleles. Well over 100 defective alleles for each of several human genetic disorders have been identified, including breast cancer (BRCA1), cystic fibrosis (CFTR), muscular dystrophy (DZM), and phenylketonuria (PAH). These observations raise the classical question of balance between the action of mutation generating new defective alleles and selection removing those alleles from the population. The problem of multiple-allele, mutation-selection balance was considered by Crow and Kimura, who obtained some approximate results showing that the level of dominance and degrees of interallelic complementation are important in determining the equilibrium allele frequencies. Here those deterministic results are reviewed and extended, showing that there are conditions yielding surprisingly high equilibrium frequencies of defective alleles. Just as the equilibrium mutation load is independent of the level of dominance, it is also independent of the number of defective alleles.}, }
@article {pmid9719846, year = {1998}, author = {Roy, P and Venugopalan, AT and Manvell, R}, title = {Isolation of Newcastle disease virus from an Indian house crow.}, journal = {Tropical animal health and production}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {177-178}, doi = {10.1023/a:1005011703895}, pmid = {9719846}, issn = {0049-4747}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*virology ; Chick Embryo ; Chickens/virology ; Hemagglutination/physiology ; Hemagglutination Inhibition Tests/veterinary ; India ; Newcastle Disease/*transmission ; Newcastle disease virus/*isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity ; }, }
@article {pmid9706574, year = {1998}, author = {Young, EA and Cornish, TE and Little, SE}, title = {Concomitant mycotic and verminous pneumonia in a blue jay from Georgia.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {34}, number = {3}, pages = {625-628}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-34.3.625}, pmid = {9706574}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Air Sacs/microbiology/parasitology/pathology ; Animals ; Aspergillosis/complications/microbiology/*veterinary ; *Bird Diseases/microbiology/parasitology/pathology ; Birds ; Fatal Outcome ; Georgia ; Lung/microbiology/parasitology/pathology ; Lung Diseases, Fungal/complications/microbiology/*veterinary ; Lung Diseases, Parasitic/complications/parasitology/*veterinary ; Male ; Nematode Infections/complications/parasitology/*veterinary ; Pneumonia/microbiology/parasitology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {An emaciated, moribund, male blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata) was collected in Georgia (USA) and died shortly after capture. Necropsy revealed nine large nematodes identified as Diplotriaena tricuspis in the thoracic and abdominal air sacs and within the pericardial sac. Multiple mycotic granulomas also were observed in the lungs and air sacs, and fungal culture of these lesions yielded pure growth of Aspergillus fumigatus. Histologic examination of the lungs revealed disseminated granulomatous inflammation containing both larvated nematode eggs and abundant fungal hyphae. This is the first description of concomitant A. fumigatus and D. tricuspis infection in a bird.}, }
@article {pmid9704985, year = {1998}, author = {Clayton, NS}, title = {Memory and the hippocampus in food-storing birds: a comparative approach.}, journal = {Neuropharmacology}, volume = {37}, number = {4-5}, pages = {441-452}, doi = {10.1016/s0028-3908(98)00037-9}, pmid = {9704985}, issn = {0028-3908}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; Birds/*physiology ; *Food ; Hippocampus/*physiology ; Memory/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Comparative studies provide a unique source of evidence for the role of the hippocampus in learning and memory. Within birds and mammals, the hippocampal volume of scatter-hoarding species that cache food in many different locations is enlarged, relative to the remainder of the telencephalon, when compared with than that of species which cache food in one larder, or do not cache at all. Do food-storing species show enhanced memory function in association with the volumetric enlargement of the hippocampus? Comparative studies within the parids (titmice and chickadees) and corvids (jays, nutcrackers and magpies), two families of birds which show natural variation in food-storing behavior, suggest that there may be two kinds of memory specialization associated with scatter-hoarding. First, in terms of spatial memory, several scatter-hoarding species have a more accurate and enduring spatial memory, and a preference to rely more heavily upon spatial cues, than that of closely related species which store less food, or none at all. Second, some scatter-hoarding parids and corvids are also more resistant to memory interference. While the most critical component about a cache site may be its spatial location, there is mounting evidence that food-storing birds remember additional information about the contents and status of cache sites. What is the underlying neural mechanism by which the hippocampus learns and remembers cache sites? The current mammalian dogma is that the neural mechanisms of learning and memory are achieved primarily by variations in synaptic number and efficacy. Recent work on the concomitant development of food-storing, memory and the avian hippocampus illustrates that the avian hippocampus may swell or shrivel by as much as 30% in response to presence or absence of food-storing experience. Memory for food caches triggers a dramatic increase in the total number of number of neurons within the avian hippocampus by altering the rate at which these cells are born and die.}, }
@article {pmid9693666, year = {1998}, author = {Levy, PM and Salomon, D}, title = {Use of Biobrane after laser resurfacing.}, journal = {Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]}, volume = {24}, number = {7}, pages = {729-734}, doi = {10.1111/j.1524-4725.1998.tb04241.x}, pmid = {9693666}, issn = {1076-0512}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Analgesics/therapeutic use ; Biocompatible Materials/*therapeutic use ; Carbon Dioxide ; *Coated Materials, Biocompatible ; Dermatitis, Irritant/prevention &amp; control ; Erythema/prevention &amp; control ; Female ; Glycosaminoglycans/administration &amp; dosage/therapeutic use ; Humans ; Hyperpigmentation/etiology ; Hypopigmentation/etiology ; *Laser Therapy ; Middle Aged ; *Occlusive Dressings ; Ointments ; Pain, Postoperative/prevention &amp; control ; Patient Satisfaction ; Retrospective Studies ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; Skin Aging ; Skin Care ; Wound Healing ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Laser skin resurfacing has become an ever more popular and effective technique for the treatment of photoaged skin. Often a prolonged postoperative healing period adversely affects patients and physician satisfaction. Erythema and a certain degree of patient discomfort are often believed to be inevitable as they are thought to reflect depth of wounding and consequently the efficacy of wrinkle removal. In addition, a high incidence of irritant contact dermatitis has been observed, complicating recovery.<br><br>OBJECTIVE: To develop a simplified wound dressing protocol aimed at achieving mild, short-term erythema and minimal side effects following effective rhytidectomy performed by laser resurfacing.<br><br>METHODS: In a retrospective study from September 1995 to May 1997, 85 patients undergoing laser resurfacing for rhytid removal were placed on a postoperative wound care protocol consisting of immediate postsurgical once-only application, for 6 days, of Biobrane, a biosynthetic semipermeable dressing followed by the topical use of only a 10% cartilage extract in ointment.<br><br>RESULTS: Thirty-eight full-face/three-quarter face, 26 supralabial, 13 perioral, and eight lower eyelid/crow's feet cosmetic units were treated. The fine and course wrinkles were improved in most patients, comparing favorably with other reported series. In 94% of patients erythema was absent to light pink at 4 weeks. Mild pain necessitating a medication was used in only five patients. Twenty-six patients developed transient hyperpigmentation and three patients developed focal hypopigmentation. Delayed irritant contact dermatitis presented in three patients. No infections developed and no scarring was observed.<br><br>CONCLUSION: With this wound healing protocol, carbon dioxide laser skin resurfacing can effectively improved facial rhytids with minimal to insignificant erythema or discomfort.}, }
@article {pmid10185011, year = {1998}, author = {Keiser, JF and Howard, BJ}, title = {Critical pathways: design, implementation, and evaluation.}, journal = {Clinical laboratory management review : official publication of the Clinical Laboratory Management Association}, volume = {12}, number = {5}, pages = {317-332}, pmid = {10185011}, issn = {0888-7950}, mesh = {*Critical Pathways ; Data Collection ; Episode of Care ; Evaluation Studies as Topic ; Forms and Records Control ; Laboratories, Hospital/standards ; Organizational Innovation ; *Outcome Assessment, Health Care ; *Patient Care Team ; Planning Techniques ; Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Quality of Health Care ; United States ; United States Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality ; }, abstract = {As David M. Eddy, M.D., Ph.D., Senior Advisor for Health Policy and Management to Southern California Kaiser Permanente, discusses in his excellent book, Clinical Decision Making: From Theory to Practice (1), we are now in a time where we must rethink what we are doing and how we are doing it. Substantial variations among physicians in almost every aspect of the diagnostic process have been documented repeatedly, and these variations appear to cause patients to be treated differently. Eddy says these variations are not the fault of physicians or anyone else because of the complexity of the medical decision process. Nonetheless, the cost and quality of health care have suffered as a result. Numerous articles and individuals such as Jay McDonald, M.D., Professor and Chair of the Department of Pathology at the University at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, also have highlighted these variables in practice patterns and their consequences (2). Dr. Eddy, Dr. McDonald, Michael G. Bissell, M.D., Ph.D., Director, Clinical Pathology, Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and other leaders in the field have stressed the need for more standardization of health care; clinical decisions concerning diagnostic testing and therapeutic choices must be based on scientific evidence that demonstrates the practice being used is truly effective (1-6). This evidence, as well as other parameters discussed below, are known as outcomes. As expressed by Dr. McDonald, "there is a transition that is going on from doing what seems best to doing what one knows is best" (2). Practice guidelines and critical pathways now are seen by many as one solution to providing more standardization of health care and to meeting the demands of the rapidly changing medical environment for simultaneously increasing the quality of care while decreasing the costs.}, }
@article {pmid9678746, year = {1998}, author = {Andersson, S and Finset, A}, title = {Heart rate and skin conductance reactivity to brief psychological stress in brain-injured patients.}, journal = {Journal of psychosomatic research}, volume = {44}, number = {6}, pages = {645-656}, doi = {10.1016/s0022-3999(97)00305-x}, pmid = {9678746}, issn = {0022-3999}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Brain Injuries/diagnosis/*psychology ; Cerebrovascular Disorders/diagnosis/*psychology ; Female ; Functional Laterality ; Galvanic Skin Response/*physiology ; Heart Rate/*physiology ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Stress, Psychological/*psychology ; }, abstract = {Autonomic reactivity in response to two mentally challenging tasks was studied in 74 patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI; n=33), cerebrovascular insults (CVA; n=27), and hypoxic brain damage (n = 14). Heart rate, skin conductance level, and number of spontaneous skin conductance responses were recorded during baseline and two problem-solving stress conditions consisting of Raven progressive matrices and mental arithmetic. CVA and TBI patients with focal right hemisphere injury showed significantly reduced stress reactivity compared to patients with focal left hemisphere injury. This right-left hemisphere difference was maintained when controlled for diagnosis, gender, sex, age, and stressor task performance and involvement. The results indicate that lateralization of lesion rather than diagnosis or etiology is the critical factor in autonomic stress hyporeactivity in brain-injured patients. The results are discussed in relation to brain lateralization of autonomic reactivity and possible clinical consequences of autonomic hyporeactivity for rehabilitation of patients with acquired brain injury.}, }
@article {pmid9674775, year = {1998}, author = {Rae, C and Karmiloff-Smith, A and Lee, MA and Dixon, RM and Grant, J and Blamire, AM and Thompson, CH and Styles, P and Radda, GK}, title = {Brain biochemistry in Williams syndrome: evidence for a role of the cerebellum in cognition?.}, journal = {Neurology}, volume = {51}, number = {1}, pages = {33-40}, doi = {10.1212/wnl.51.1.33}, pmid = {9674775}, issn = {0028-3878}, mesh = {Adenosine Triphosphate/analysis ; Adolescent ; Adult ; *Brain Chemistry ; Cerebellum/chemistry/*physiology ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Ethanolamines/analysis ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/chemistry ; Glycerophosphates/analysis ; Hexosephosphates/analysis ; Humans ; Inositol Phosphates/analysis ; Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parietal Lobe/chemistry ; Phosphocreatine/analysis ; Phosphorus Radioisotopes ; Phosphorylcholine/analysis ; Phosphoserine/analysis ; Protons ; Radionuclide Imaging ; Williams Syndrome/diagnostic imaging/metabolism/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine what biochemical changes may occur in the brain in Williams syndrome (WS) and whether these changes may be related to the cognitive deficits.<br><br>BACKGROUND: WS is a rare, congenital disorder with a characteristic physical, linguistic, and behavioral phenotype with known cognitive deficits.<br><br>METHODS: We obtained 31P magnetic resonance spectra (MRS) from a region consisting of mostly frontal and parietal lobe of 14 patients with WS (age, 8 to 37 years) and 48 similarly-aged controls. 1H MRS (27 cm3) localized to the left cerebellum obtained from the WS cohort were compared with those from 16 chronological age- and sex-matched normal controls. A battery of cognitive tests were administered to all subjects undergoing 1H MRS.<br><br>RESULTS: WS brains exhibited significant biochemical abnormalities. All 31P MRS ratios containing the phosphomonoester (PME) peak were significantly altered in WS, suggesting that PME is significantly decreased. Ratios of choline-containing compounds and creatine-containing compounds to N-acetylaspartate (Cho/NA and Cre/NA) were significantly elevated in the cerebellum in WS cf. controls, whereas the ratio of Cho/Cre was not altered. This suggests a decrease in the neuronal marker N-acetylaspartate in the cerebellum. Significant correlations were found between the cerebellar ratios Cho/NA and Cre/NA and the ability of all subjects at various neuropsychological tests, including Verbal and Performance IQ, British Picture Vocabulary Scale, Ravens Progressive Matrices, and Inspection Time.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The correlations can be interpreted in two ways: 1) Our sampling of cerebellar biochemistry reflects a measure of "global" cerebral biochemistry and is unrelated to cerebellar function, or 2) The relations indicate that cerebellar neuronal integrity is a requirement (on a developmental time scale or in real-time) for ability on a variety of cognitive tests.}, }
@article {pmid9673101, year = {1998}, author = {Vineis, P}, title = {[Interactions between genetics and environment].}, journal = {La Medicina del lavoro}, volume = {89}, number = {2}, pages = {117-123}, pmid = {9673101}, issn = {0025-7818}, mesh = {Aged ; *Carcinogens, Environmental ; Case-Control Studies ; Confidence Intervals ; Disease Susceptibility ; *Environment ; Ethics, Medical ; Female ; Genetic Testing ; Helicobacter Infections/complications ; Helicobacter pylori ; Humans ; Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin/etiology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neoplasms/chemically induced/*etiology/*genetics ; Occupational Diseases/*chemically induced/prevention &amp; control ; *Occupational Exposure ; Polymorphism, Genetic ; Racial Groups ; Smoking/adverse effects ; Stomach Neoplasms/etiology ; Tuberculosis/etiology ; }, abstract = {From a scientific point of view, the idea that genes exert an important role in explaining human pathology has gained much popularity in recent decades. However, according to Stephen Jay Gould, the "genetic fallacy" has been repeatedly used to avoid environmental action. In the case of occupational cancer, genetic screening of workers for their susceptibility to the action of chemical carcinogens, on the basis of "metabolic polymorphisms", would be unacceptable because of racial discrimination, related to uneven racial distribution of most polymorphisms, for example, 90% of Africans and 10% of Asians have the "slow" acetylator genotype. Therefore, not only technical and scientific aspects of genetic susceptibility to cancer, but also ethical and social implication have to be considered.}, }
@article {pmid9658793, year = {1998}, author = {Saccomani, L and Vercellino, F and Rizzo, P and Becchetti, S}, title = {[Adolescents with scoliosis: psychological and psychopathological aspects].}, journal = {Minerva pediatrica}, volume = {50}, number = {1-2}, pages = {9-14}, pmid = {9658793}, issn = {0026-4946}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Anxiety/etiology ; Body Image ; Child ; Depression/etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Interview, Psychological ; Male ; Psychological Tests ; Scoliosis/*psychology/therapy ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The present study focuses on psychological and psychopathological aspects in children and adolescents with scoliosis.<br><br>METHODS: The case series included 28 subjects with scoliosis (7 males, 21 females; range 9-25 years; mean age 15.8 years) admitted to the Dept. of Orthopaedics of Gaslini Institute and referred to our observation. Psychological approach included semi-structured interviews focused on the evolution of scoliosis and based on questions about consciousness of illness, family and patient emotional reactions during treatment; familial, social and school adaptation; body image; onset of psychopathological disorders. Family relational and educational attitudes were also considered. The following psychological tests were also performed: Raven Progressive Matrices; "Draw-a-Person" test; Sacks' battery of incomplete sentences to evaluate cognitive aspects, body image, familial and social relationships, interactive aspects.<br><br>RESULTS: During adolescence consciousness of illness appeared concomitantly with the beginning of treatment. Most subjects presented intellectual-relational compensation strategies, but in a reasonable number of cases they showed insecurity and inferiority feelings. On a conscious level, body image appeared normal in most cases, but unconsciously (in 45% of cases) there were anguish aspects related to feelings of body deterioration. During long-term treatments anxious reactions, sometimes temporary, (in 36% of cases) and depressive aspects (in 9% of cases) were observed.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The results obtained stress the importance of the family and the medical staff in providing a reassuring and firm support, in order to face difficulties related to the patient's illness.}, }
@article {pmid9654465, year = {1998}, author = {Woessner, DE and Bansal, N}, title = {Temporal characteristics of NMR signals from spin 3/2 nuclei of incompletely disordered systems.}, journal = {Journal of magnetic resonance (San Diego, Calif. : 1997)}, volume = {133}, number = {1}, pages = {21-35}, doi = {10.1006/jmre.1998.1423}, pmid = {9654465}, issn = {1090-7807}, support = {R29 HL54574/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; RR02584/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Algorithms ; Biocompatible Materials/chemistry ; Chemical Phenomena ; Chemistry, Physical ; Computer Simulation ; Diffusion ; Electron Spin Resonance Spectroscopy ; Energy Transfer ; Filtration ; Humans ; Hydrogen/chemistry ; Macromolecular Substances ; Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy/*methods ; Models, Chemical ; Sodium/chemistry ; Time Factors ; Water/chemistry ; }, abstract = {Anisotropic nuclear quadrupole interactions can produce residual quadrupole splitting in the NMR spectra of rapidly moving quadrupolar nuclei in incompletely disordered aqueous heterogeneous systems. Such systems may include hydrated sodium nuclei in biological tissue and biopolymer gels. To describe the NMR signals from such samples, we use a domain model in which each domain is characterized by a quadrupole frequency and a residence time of the nucleus. We show that the signals from each domain after one pulse, the quadrupole echo sequence, and the various multiple quantum filters (MQFs) can be expressed as a linear combination of five different phase coherences. To simulate the effect of various distributions (Pake powder pattern, Gaussian, etc.) of quadrupole frequencies for different domains on the NMR signal, we have written the computer program CORVUS. CORVUS also includes the effects of exchange between different domains using diffusion and random jump models. The results of computer simulations show that the Gaussian and Pake powder pattern quadrupole frequency distributions produce very different phase coherences and observable NMR signals when the exchange rate (1/taue) between different domains is slow. When 1/taue is similar to the root mean square quadrupole frequency (final sigma), the signals from the two distributions are similar. When 1/taue is an order of magnitude greater than final sigma, there is no apparent evidence of quadrupole splitting in the shape of the signal following one pulse, but the residual effects of the quadrupole splitting make a significant contribution to the fast transverse relaxation rate. Therefore, in this case, it is inappropriate to use the observed biexponential relaxation rates to obtain a single correlation time. The quadrupole echo and the various MQF signals contain an echo from the satellite transitions in the presence of quadrupole splitting. The peak of this echo is very sensitive to 1/taue. The time domain analysis of these signals is more direct and less ambiguous than the frequency domain analysis because the echo does not occur at the beginning of data acquisition. The quadrupole echo pulse sequence is the most sensitive detector of residual quadrupole splitting and exchange of sodium ions between different domains. However, if the sample is compartmentalized so that only a fraction of the nuclei have quadrupole splitting, the double quantum magic angle filter (DQ-MA) is more suitable. This is because the DQ-MA signal contains only the contributions from satellite transitions. Use of simulations to analyze signals from various one-pulse, quadrupole echo, and multiple quantum filter pulse sequences can yield information on substrate order and aid in quantitation of multiple quantum filter signals.}, }
@article {pmid9648950, year = {1998}, author = {Gevenois, PA and de Maertelaer, V and Madani, A and Winant, C and Sergent, G and De Vuyst, P}, title = {Asbestosis, pleural plaques and diffuse pleural thickening: three distinct benign responses to asbestos exposure.}, journal = {The European respiratory journal}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {1021-1027}, doi = {10.1183/09031936.98.11051021}, pmid = {9648950}, issn = {0903-1936}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Asbestos/*adverse effects ; Asbestosis/*diagnostic imaging ; Cluster Analysis ; Environmental Exposure ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Pleural Diseases/diagnostic imaging/*etiology ; Radiography, Thoracic ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to investigate by computed tomography (CT) whether asbestosis, diffuse pleural thickening and/or pleural plaques are statistically associated. We also tried to find criteria to differentiate between diffuse and circumscribed pleural thickening. From 231 exposed workers, only those subjects whose radiograph showed neither bilateral calcified pleural plaques nor small pulmonary opacities higher than 1/1 grade according to the 1980 International Labour Office (ILO) Classification were considered. Scans were assessed for the presence of subpleural curvilinear lines, septal and intralobular lines, parenchymal bands, honeycombing, rounded atelectasis, pleural plaques and diffuse pleural thickening. CT scans revealed pleural and/or lung abnormalities in 99 workers. Pleural plaques were unilateral in one-third of cases with plaques. Diffuse pleural thickening, parenchymal bands and rounded atelectasis were unilateral in, respectively, 62 and 69 and 75% of cases with the abnormality. Septal and intralobular lines, and honeycombing were always bilateral. CT signs could be grouped into three patterns: 1) septal and intralobular lines, and honeycombing corresponding to pulmonary fibrosis; 2) pleural plaques corresponding to parietal pleural fibrosis; and 3) diffuse pleural thickening, rounded atelectasis and parenchymal bands corresponding to visceral pleural fibrosis. In these workers with a normal or near-normal radiograph, three groups of subjects with different responses were distinguished. Crow's feet and rounded atelectasis help to differentiate plaques from diffuse thickening.}, }
@article {pmid9627472, year = {1998}, author = {Saida, K}, title = {[Physiopathology and clinical presentation of Crow-Fukase Syndrome].}, journal = {Nihon Naika Gakkai zasshi. The Journal of the Japanese Society of Internal Medicine}, volume = {87}, number = {4}, pages = {643-647}, pmid = {9627472}, issn = {0021-5384}, mesh = {Humans ; POEMS Syndrome/*pathology ; }, }
@article {pmid9600810, year = {1998}, author = {Grandjean, P and Weihe, P and White, RF and Debes, F}, title = {Cognitive performance of children prenatally exposed to "safe" levels of methylmercury.}, journal = {Environmental research}, volume = {77}, number = {2}, pages = {165-172}, doi = {10.1006/enrs.1997.3804}, pmid = {9600810}, issn = {0013-9351}, support = {ES06112/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Cognition/*drug effects/physiology ; Eye Movements/drug effects/physiology ; Female ; Fingers/physiology ; Hand/physiology ; Humans ; Male ; Maternal Exposure/*adverse effects ; Maximum Allowable Concentration ; Mercury/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; Mercury Poisoning/etiology/physiopathology/psychology ; Methylmercury Compounds/administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; Motor Activity/drug effects/physiology ; Movement/drug effects/physiology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychomotor Performance/*drug effects/physiology ; Reaction Time/drug effects/physiology ; }, abstract = {Within a cohort of 1022 consecutive singleton births in the Faroe Islands, we assessed prenatal methylmercury exposure from the maternal hair mercury concentration. At approximately 7 years of age, 917 of the children underwent detailed neurobehavioral examination. Little risk is thought to occur as long as the hair mercury concentration in pregnant women is kept below 10-20 microg/g (50-100 nmol/l). A case group of 112 children whose mothers had a hair mercury concentration of 10-20 microg/g was therefore matched to children with exposure below 3 microg/g, using age, sex, time of examination, and the mother's score on Raven's Progressive Matrices as matching criteria. The two groups were almost identical with regard to other factors that might affect neurobehavioral performance in this community. On six neuropsychological test measures, the case group showed mild decrements, relative to controls, especially in the domains of motor function, language, and memory. Subtle effects on brain function therefore seem to be detectable at prenatal methylmercury exposure levels currently considered to be safe.}, }
@article {pmid9599947, year = {1998}, author = {Hemam, NS and Reddy, BM}, title = {Demographic implications of socioeconomic transition among the tribal populations of Manipur, India.}, journal = {Human biology}, volume = {70}, number = {3}, pages = {597-619}, pmid = {9599947}, issn = {0018-7143}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Distribution ; Aged ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cluster Analysis ; Emigration and Immigration/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Ethnicity/*genetics ; Female ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; India/epidemiology ; Infant ; Infant Mortality/trends ; Male ; Marriage/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Middle Aged ; Population Surveillance ; Sex Distribution ; *Social Conditions ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {The demographic implications of socioeconomic transition are studied among the three subsistence categories of the Gangte, a little known tribe from northeast India. Reproductive histories of 444 ever-married women and other data on the 343 households from which these women were drawn were collected from 11 villages representing the 3 transitional groups. A trend of increasing household income and literacy of couples was observed from shifting cultivators to settled agriculturists to the town-dwelling Gangte. The effect of socioeconomic transition is also seen in the constriction at the base of the age-sex pyramid of the town dwellers compared with the other subsistence categories, suggesting a relatively lower proportion of children in the 0-5-year-old age group. Although exogamy is practiced among all the subsistence categories, a considerably higher percentage of admixture with non-Gangte is observed among the town dwellers compared with the others. Overall infant and child mortality among the Gangte is low. However, variation exists among the three subsistence groups in the sense that a considerable reduction is seen from the traditional shifting cultivators to the urbanized town dwellers, reflecting better socioeconomic conditions and greater awareness and accessibility of the town dwellers to public health amenities. No consistent or perceptible trend is evident in mean number of live births. The genetic implications of this demographic transition are reflected in Crow's indexes of selection.}, }
@article {pmid9587411, year = {1998}, author = {Liochev, SI and Chen, LL and Hallewell, RA and Fridovich, I}, title = {The familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-associated amino acid substitutions E100G, G93A, and G93R do not influence the rate of inactivation of copper- and zinc-containing superoxide dismutase by H2O2.}, journal = {Archives of biochemistry and biophysics}, volume = {352}, number = {2}, pages = {237-239}, doi = {10.1006/abbi.1998.0616}, pmid = {9587411}, issn = {0003-9861}, support = {HL5625-03/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/*genetics ; Enzyme Stability/genetics ; Humans ; Hydrogen Peroxide/*pharmacology ; Kinetics ; Metalloproteins/metabolism ; Mutation/*genetics ; Peroxidases/metabolism ; Superoxide Dismutase/*genetics ; Uric Acid/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {Inactivation of copper- and zinc-containing superoxide dismutase (Cu,ZnSOD) by H2O2 is the consequence of several sequential reactions: reduction of the active site Cu(II) to Cu(I) by H2O2; oxidation of the Cu(I) by a second H2O2, thus generating a powerful oxidant, which may be Cu(I)O or Cu(II)OH or Cu(III); and finally oxidation of one of the histidines in the ligand field, causing loss of SOD activity. Three familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FALS)-associated mutant Cu,ZnSODs, i.e., E100G, G93A, and G93R, did not differ from the control enzyme in susceptibility to inactivation by H2O2. It thus appears that an increased peroxidase activity of the FALS-associated Cu,ZnSOD variants might not be a factor in the development of this disease. This leaves the loss of Zn, and the consequent increase in peroxidase activity, or in nitration activity, as a viable explanation (J. P. Crow et al., 1997, J. Neurochem. 69, 1936-1944), among other possibilities.}, }
@article {pmid9537986, year = {1998}, author = {Gronwald, W and Loewen, MC and Lix, B and Daugulis, AJ and Sönnichsen, FD and Davies, PL and Sykes, BD}, title = {The solution structure of type II antifreeze protein reveals a new member of the lectin family.}, journal = {Biochemistry}, volume = {37}, number = {14}, pages = {4712-4721}, doi = {10.1021/bi972788c}, pmid = {9537986}, issn = {0006-2960}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; *Antifreeze Proteins, Type II ; Carrier Proteins/*chemistry/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Freezing ; Lectins/*chemistry ; Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy ; Models, Chemical ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Protein Conformation ; Recombinant Proteins/chemistry/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {A recombinant form of the sea raven type II antifreeze protein (SRAFP) has been produced using the Pichia pastoris expression system. The antifreeze activity of recombinant SRAFP is indistinguishable from that of the wild-type protein. The global fold of SRAFP has been determined by two-dimensional 1H homonuclear and three-dimensional 1H-¿15N¿ heteronuclear NMR spectroscopy using 785 NOE distance restraints and 47 angular restraints. The molecule folds into one globular domain that consists of two helices and nine beta-strands in two beta-sheets. The structure confirms the proposed existence of five disulfide bonds. The global fold of SRAFP is homologous to C-type lectins and pancreatic stone proteins, even though the sequence identity is only approximately 20%.}, }
@article {pmid9578009, year = {1998}, author = {Guerrini, R and Belmonte, A and Canapicchi, R and Casalini, C and Perucca, E}, title = {Reversible pseudoatrophy of the brain and mental deterioration associated with valproate treatment.}, journal = {Epilepsia}, volume = {39}, number = {1}, pages = {27-32}, doi = {10.1111/j.1528-1157.1998.tb01270.x}, pmid = {9578009}, issn = {0013-9580}, mesh = {Atrophy/chemically induced/pathology/physiopathology ; Brain/*drug effects/*pathology/physiopathology ; Brain Diseases/chemically induced/diagnosis/physiopathology ; Child ; Cognition Disorders/chemically induced/diagnosis ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Electroencephalography ; Epilepsy/*drug therapy ; Female ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*chemically induced/diagnosis ; Intelligence Tests ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Prospective Studies ; Retrospective Studies ; Valproic Acid/*adverse effects/poisoning/therapeutic use ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To describe an 11-year-old girl with symptomatic localization-related epilepsy and normal intelligence who developed reversible mental deterioration and pseudoatrophic brain changes while receiving valproate (VPA).<br><br>METHODS: Assessment of mental function using Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-III (WISC) and Raven's Progressive Matrices (PM), EEG recordings while awake and asleep, and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), were performed at the beginning of VPA therapy, after 2 years and 8 months of treatment and following VPA discontinuation.<br><br>RESULTS: After 2 years and 6 months on VPA (< or = 26 mg/kg/day) the girl insidiously developed mental deterioration (loss of 18 IQ points and drop in age-adjusted PM score from the 95th to the 50th percentile) associated with MRI-documented pseudoatrophy of the brain. Onset of severe cognitive impairment coincided with serum VPA concentrations near 100 microg/ml. There were no other manifestations of drug toxicity or hyperammonemia. Background EEG activity was normal. Reduction of VPA dosage and subsequent discontinuation 4 months later resulted in disappearance of clinical symptoms with a 20-point improvement at IQ testing and recovery of previous PM score. Repeat MRI showed disappearance of pseudoatrophic changes.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The striking cognitive improvement and reversal of pseudoatrophic brain changes following VPA discontinuation strongly suggest a drug-induced condition. Based on this and previous reports, the syndrome of VPA-associated mental deterioration and pseudoatrophy of the brain appears to encompass different but possibly related clinical entities, which include parkinsonism with cognitive deterioration, mental deterioration with signs of VPA-toxicity, and isolated mental deterioration, as seen in our patient. A drug-induced effect should be considered whenever cognitive deterioration and imaging findings of brain atrophy occur in VPA-treated patients.}, }
@article {pmid9577796, year = {1998}, author = {Ley, DH and Geary, SJ and Berkhoff, JE and McLaren, JM and Levisohn, S}, title = {Mycoplasma sturni from blue jays and northern mockingbirds with conjunctivitis in Florida.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {34}, number = {2}, pages = {403-406}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-34.2.403}, pmid = {9577796}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*microbiology ; Birds ; Conjunctivitis, Bacterial/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; Disease Outbreaks/*veterinary ; Florida/epidemiology ; Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect/veterinary ; Mycoplasma Infections/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {Northern mockingbirds (Mimus polyglottos) and blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) in a Florida (USA) wildlife care facility developed clinical signs and gross lesions suggestive of the ongoing outbreak of Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) conjunctivitis in house finches (Carpodacus mexicanus) and American goldfinches (Carduelis tristis). Mycoplasmal organisms were cultured from conjunctival/corneal swabs of birds with sinusitis, conjunctivitis, and/or epiphora. All of the isolates tested were identified as Mycoplasma sturni by indirect immunofluorescence. Mycoplasma sturni as well as MG should be considered in the differential diagnosis of songbirds with conjunctivitis.}, }
@article {pmid9577778, year = {1998}, author = {To, H and Sakai, R and Shirota, K and Kano, C and Abe, S and Sugimoto, T and Takehara, K and Morita, C and Takashima, I and Maruyama, T and Yamaguchi, T and Fukushi, H and Hirai, K}, title = {Coxiellosis in domestic and wild birds from Japan.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {34}, number = {2}, pages = {310-316}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-34.2.310}, pmid = {9577778}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Agglutination Tests/veterinary ; Animals ; Animals, Domestic ; Animals, Wild ; Antibodies, Bacterial/blood ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology ; Birds ; Coxiella burnetii/genetics/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; DNA, Bacterial/analysis ; Disease Reservoirs ; Japan/epidemiology ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary ; Prevalence ; Q Fever/epidemiology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {Serological evidence of infection with Coxiella burnetii was found in 41 (2%) of 1,951 domestic birds and in 167 (19%) of 863 wild birds from 17 and 5 prefectures in Japan, respectively, by microagglutination (MA) test. The bacteriological evidence of the infection was found in 17 (41%) of 41 domestic birds and 37 (22%) of 167 wild birds by the nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In addition, C. burnetii was isolated from five each of serum, spleen and fecal specimens from five jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) (whose sera were positive by both the MA test and PCR) by inoculating laboratory mice. Domestic quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) (3%), domestic muscovy ducks (Cairina moschata) (3%), domestic chickens (2%), domestic mallards (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus) (2%), carrion crows (Corvus corone) (37%), jungle crows (35%), and wild rock doves (Columba livia) (6%) showed serologic evidence of experience with C. burnetii. There was a tendency for a high prevalence among birds living and/or feeding in close proximity to infected livestock. This suggests that these birds are one of the less important links in maintaining the whole cycle of C. burnetii infection.}, }
@article {pmid9576567, year = {1998}, author = {Wood, B and Mandel, L and Schaad, D and Curtis, JD and Murray, C and Broudy, V and Gernsheimer, T and Wener, MH and LeCrone, CN and Astion, ML}, title = {Teaching the clinical interpretation of peripheral blood smears to a second-year medical school class using the PeripheralBlood-Tutor computer program.}, journal = {American journal of clinical pathology}, volume = {109}, number = {5}, pages = {514-520}, doi = {10.1093/ajcp/109.5.514}, pmid = {9576567}, issn = {0002-9173}, mesh = {*Blood Cell Count ; Curriculum ; Education, Medical/*methods ; Hematologic Diseases/diagnosis ; Humans ; *Software ; Teaching/*methods ; }, abstract = {The interpretation of peripheral blood smears has an important role in the diagnosis of hematologic diseases and is, therefore, part of the education of physicians and technologists. We describe a computer program, PeripheralBlood-Tutor (Lippincott-Raven, Philadelphia, Pa), that teaches the morphologic features of normal and abnormal peripheral blood smears; we also describe the evaluation of the effectiveness of the program in 133 second-year medical students who were required to use the program in their hematology course. The version of the PeripheralBlood-Tutor used in the study had 2 distinct but equivalent 20-question examinations; one examination, the pretest, was taken before the students viewed the contents of the program, and the other examination, the posttest, was taken after completing the program. The mean score on the pretest was 61% (SD, 14%), the mean on the posttest was 91% (SD, 10%), and the improvement was significant. In addition, 4 questions about peripheral blood smears, which were based on printed images, were administered at the end of the hematology course. The students scored an average of 2.75 (SD, 0.86), and a positive correlation was found between these scores and the scores on the Tutor posttest. The results of the study suggest that PeripheralBlood-Tutor is feasible to implement, and it helps students learn to interpret peripheral blood smears. The use of PeripheralBlood-Tutor is now a requirement in the medical school curriculum, the medical technology program, and the pathology residency at the University of Washington, Seattle.}, }
@article {pmid9562305, year = {1998}, author = {Roudier, M and Marcie, P and Grancher, AS and Tzortzis, C and Starkstein, S and Boller, F}, title = {Discrimination of facial identity and of emotions in Alzheimer's disease.}, journal = {Journal of the neurological sciences}, volume = {154}, number = {2}, pages = {151-158}, doi = {10.1016/s0022-510x(97)00222-0}, pmid = {9562305}, issn = {0022-510X}, mesh = {Alzheimer Disease/*psychology ; *Discrimination, Psychological ; *Dissociative Disorders ; *Emotions ; *Facial Expression ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Status Schedule ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate processing of human faces identity and of emotional expressions in patients with Alzheimer's Disease (AD).<br><br>BACKGROUND: Mechanisms responsible for discriminating facial identity may be dissociated from those involved in discriminating facial expressions. Patients with prosopagnosia often have preserved capacities for processing emotional facial expressions and occasionally, patients with focal lesions may recognize human faces without being able to recognize their facial expression. Such a dissociation has not been clearly shown in groups of AD patients.<br><br>METHODS: Thirty-one probable AD patients and 14 control subjects were administered tasks of discrimination of faces and of emotions.<br><br>RESULTS: AD patients were significantly impaired in discriminating facial identities and in naming and pointing to named emotions, but were comparable to controls in discriminating facial expressions of emotion. The deficits of facial discrimination and of identification of emotions were, on the whole, correlated with the MMS and Raven scores. Discrimination of emotions was not correlated to either test, suggesting that this ability is based on cognitive processes different from those underlying the MMS and the PM47.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This dissociation implies two separate systems, one dedicated to discrimination of facial identities and the other to discrimination of emotions. This is compatible with the modular organization of cognitive deficits in AD and may explain the well known experience that nonverbal communication often remains effective even in patients with severe dementia.}, }
@article {pmid9559992, year = {1998}, author = {Tanaka, F and Kachi, T and Yamada, T and Sobue, G}, title = {Auditory and visual event-related potentials and flash visual evoked potentials in Alzheimer's disease: correlations with Mini-Mental State Examination and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Journal of the neurological sciences}, volume = {156}, number = {1}, pages = {83-88}, doi = {10.1016/s0022-510x(98)00004-5}, pmid = {9559992}, issn = {0022-510X}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Alzheimer Disease/*physiopathology ; *Evoked Potentials, Auditory ; *Evoked Potentials, Visual ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {We investigated possible correlations among neurophysiological examinations [auditory and visual event-related potentials (A-ERPs, V-ERPs), and flash visual evoked potentials (F-VEPs)] and neuropsychological tests [Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM)] in 15 subjects with probable or possible Alzheimer's disease (AD) according to the National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke and the Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Association (NINCDS-ADRDA) criteria. The P300 latency of A-ERPs was correlated with the scores of MMSE but not with those of RCPM. The P300 latency of V-ERPs was more significantly correlated with the scores of RCPM than with those of MMSE. The P2 latency of F-VEPs was more significantly correlated with the scores of RCPM than with those of MMSE. The P2 latency of F-VEPs was not correlated with the P300 latency of A-ERPs but was correlated with the P300 latency of V-ERPs. The close relationship among V-ERPs, F-VEPs and RCPM suggests that these examinations at least partly reflect the functions of visual association areas in AD. Furthermore, discrepancy between P300 latency by A-ERPs and V-ERPs suggests that the mechanism responsible for P300 generation is not identical between these two stimulus modalities.}, }
@article {pmid9554087, year = {1998}, author = {Witkowski, T and Stiensmeier-Pelster, J}, title = {Performance deficits following failure: learned helplessness or self-esteem protection?.}, journal = {The British journal of social psychology}, volume = {37 (Pt 1)}, number = {}, pages = {59-71}, doi = {10.1111/j.2044-8309.1998.tb01157.x}, pmid = {9554087}, issn = {0144-6665}, mesh = {*Achievement ; Adult ; Defense Mechanisms ; Female ; *Helplessness, Learned ; Humans ; *Internal-External Control ; Male ; Problem Solving ; *Self Concept ; Social Environment ; Students/psychology ; }, abstract = {We report two laboratory experiments which compare two competing explanations of performance deficits following failure: one based on Seligman's learned helplessness theory (LHT), and the other, on self-esteem protection theory (SEPT). In both studies, participants (Study 1: N = 40 pupils from secondary schools in Walbrzych, Poland; Study 2: N = 45 students from the University of Bielefeld, Germany) were confronted with either success or failure in a first phase of the experiment. Then, in the second phase of the experiment the participants had to work on a set of mathematical problems (Study 1) or a set of tasks taken from Raven's Progressive Matrices (Study 2) either privately or in public. In both studies failure in the first phase causes performance deficits in the second phase only if the participants had to solve the test tasks in public. These results were interpreted in line with SEPT and as incompatible with LHT.}, }
@article {pmid9548007, year = {1998}, author = {Taillia, H and Chabriat, H and Kurtz, A and Verin, M and Levy, C and Vahedi, K and Tournier-Lasserve, E and Bousser, MG}, title = {Cognitive alterations in non-demented CADASIL patients.}, journal = {Cerebrovascular diseases (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {8}, number = {2}, pages = {97-101}, doi = {10.1159/000015825}, pmid = {9548007}, issn = {1015-9770}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Brain/pathology ; Cerebral Arteries/abnormalities/pathology ; Cerebrovascular Disorders/congenital/pathology/*psychology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {CADASIL is an inherited small-artery disease of the brain due to mutations of the Notch3 gene on chromosome 19. It is characterized by strokes, migraine with aura, and severe mood disturbances during mid adulthood and leads progressively to subcortical dementia. The precise onset of the cognitive decline in CADASIL remains unknown. We report here the cognitive evaluation of 8 non-demented symptomatic patients with CADASIL from 35 to 66 years of age. Altered performances were found in all subjects with the Wisconsin Card-Sorting Test (WCST), in 5/8 with the Trail-Making Test, and in 3/8 with copying of Rey's figure. Altered performances with codes and similarities of the WAIS-R, the Wechsler Memory Scale, Raven's Progressive Matrices, and the category and letter fluency task were observed less frequently (n < or = 2). The score obtained with the WCST was not significantly correlated with the severity of the white-matter or basal ganglia signal abnormalities at MRI examination. Our data show that: (1) symptomatic CADASIL patients, although non-demented, can present with a subtle cognitive impairment; (2) tasks involving the frontal lobes are found most frequently altered, and (3) this subtle cognitive deficit can develop in the absence of major vascular events and does not appear to be correlated with the severity of brain lesions as seen at MRI examination.}, }
@article {pmid9533189, year = {1998}, author = {Colonia-Willner, R}, title = {Practical intelligence at work: relationship between aging and cognitive efficiency among managers in a bank environment.}, journal = {Psychology and aging}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {45-57}, doi = {10.1037//0882-7974.13.1.45}, pmid = {9533189}, issn = {0882-7974}, support = {1 P50 AG11715-02/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Administrative Personnel/*psychology ; Adult ; Aging/*psychology ; Cognition ; Commerce ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Middle Aged ; }, abstract = {A study was conducted to determine which better predicts performance among bank managers: tacit practical knowledge as assessed by the Tacit Knowledge Inventory for Managers (TKIM) or 2 psychometric measures of reasoning, the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (Raven's) and the Verbal Reasoning subtest of the Differential Aptitude Test (DAT). Two hundred bank managers (43 experts and 157 nonexperts), ages 24-59 years old, participated. Increased age was associated with lower performance in Raven's and the DAT but less so in the TKIM; best performing older managers on average had high levels of tacit knowledge, although they scored lower on psychometric reasoning measures; TKIM predicted managerial skill; DAT and Raven's did not. These results suggest that stabilization of some aspects of intelligence may occur in old age. Implications of the findings for the study of practical intelligence, expertise, and compensatory abilities are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid9532766, year = {1998}, author = {Tarr, CL and Fleischer, RC}, title = {Primers for polymorphic GT microsatellites isolated from the Mariana crow, Corvus kubaryi.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {253-255}, pmid = {9532766}, issn = {0962-1083}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*genetics ; DNA Primers/*chemistry ; *Genetic Markers ; Genetic Variation ; Micronesia ; Microsatellite Repeats/*genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Nucleic Acid Hybridization ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; *Polymorphism, Genetic ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid10180147, year = {1998}, author = {}, title = {Fulfilling a responsibility to the pediatric patient.}, journal = {Caring : National Association for Home Care magazine}, volume = {17}, number = {5}, pages = {16-17}, pmid = {10180147}, issn = {0738-467X}, mesh = {Baltimore ; Child ; *Delivery of Health Care, Integrated ; *Children with Disabilities ; Education, Medical, Undergraduate ; Home Care Services/*organization &amp; administration ; Humans ; Pediatrics/organization &amp; administration ; Program Development ; Virginia ; }, abstract = {Dr. Jay A. Perman set up a successful pediatric home care program at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine that seeks to provide families with health care services, products, and equipment from a single source. Using the basics of that program, Dr. Perman has now created a comprehensive pediatric provider program at the Virginia Commonwealth University Medical College of Virginia.}, }
@article {pmid9526819, year = {1998}, author = {Spence, JE}, title = {Vaginal and uterine anomalies in the pediatric and adolescent patient.}, journal = {Journal of pediatric and adolescent gynecology}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {3-11}, doi = {10.1016/s1083-3188(98)70100-7}, pmid = {9526819}, issn = {1083-3188}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Congenital Abnormalities/diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Uterus/*abnormalities ; Vagina/*abnormalities ; }, abstract = {Congenital malformations of the vagina, cervix, and uterus, although rare, may have profound implications for the young gynecological patient. These anomalies are often detected in the adolescent period. For proper management, the physician requires a thorough understanding of normal embryology and sexual differentiation. Although clinical experience helps the gynecologist appreciate the disturbed anatomic configurations, each and every individual who presents with a defect must be thoroughly evaluated because genital tract aberrations do not necessarily follow any defined and consistent pattern. Other anomalies often coexist, particularly related to the renal tract, so a thorough assessment is warranted. Genital malformations can be particularly disturbing to the patient and her family because they not only have reproductive implications but also significant psychological and sexual overtones that need to be addressed and dealt with in a sensitive and reassuring manner. This report is meant to provide an overview of the various abnormalities encountered and guide the clinician by providing an approach to management. A more indepth discussion is best found in the classic textbooks (Rock JA: Surgery for anomalies of the müllerian ducts. In: Te Linde's Operative Gynecology (8th ed). Edited by J Rock, J. Thompson. Philadelphia, Lippincott-Raven, 1997; Edmonds DK: Sexual development anomalies and their reconstruction: upper and lower tracts. In: Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology. Edited by J Sanfilippo, D Muram, P Lee, J Dewhurst. Philadelphia, W.B. Saunders, 1994; Jones HW Jr: Reconstruction of congenital uterovaginal anomalies. In: Female Reproductive Surgery. Edited by J Rock, A Murphy, HW Jones Jr. Baltimore, Williams &amp; Wilkins, 1992).}, }
@article {pmid9523784, year = {1998}, author = {Kernozek, TW and Lewin, JE}, title = {Seat interface pressures of individuals with paraplegia: influence of dynamic wheelchair locomotion compared with static seated measurements.}, journal = {Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation}, volume = {79}, number = {3}, pages = {313-316}, doi = {10.1016/s0003-9993(98)90012-0}, pmid = {9523784}, issn = {0003-9993}, mesh = {Adult ; Buttocks/*physiology ; Equipment Design ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Multivariate Analysis ; Paraplegia/*physiopathology ; Pressure ; Weight-Bearing/physiology ; *Wheelchairs ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To provide a comparison of the seat interface pressures between static seating and dynamic seating during wheelchair locomotion of individuals with paraplegia.<br><br>DESIGN: Repeated measures multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) comparing two conditions: static seat and dynamic seat interface pressures.<br><br>SETTING: University campus and clinic.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: Fifteen participants, each of whom propelled a manual wheelchair for at least 5 hours per week over the previous 6 months and functioned with a spinal cord injury/ disability level of T1 or below.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Peak pressure (PP) and pressure time integral (PTI) as measured by the Novel Pliance System, which consists of a flexible 32 x 32 capacitive sensor mat (each sensor 1.5 cm2) interfaced with a PC, was sampled at 10Hz. The participants were measured in their own wheelchair with a new Jay Active seat cushion.<br><br>RESULTS: The repeated measures MANOVA showed a difference in the PP and PTI between the static and dynamic measurements (Wilk's = .00, p < .05). Follow-up dependent t tests yielded a difference in PP (t = 5.40, p < 0.025) and no difference in the PTI between static and dynamic conditions (t = 1.45, p > 0.025). The PP during static seating (mean = 16.2 +/- 5.0 kPa [121 +/- 37.5 mmHg]) was less than during dynamic seat interface pressures during wheelchair locomotion (20.03 +/- 6.6 kPa [152.3 +/- 49.5 mmHg]). PP varied by up to 42% during the wheelchair locomotion cycle. The PTI was similar between static (30.1 +/- 9.3 kPa [225.75 +/- 69 mmHg]) and dynamic conditions (36.2 +/- 18.1 kPa [271 +/- 135.7 mmHg]).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The results from this study are consistent with some of the previous work on the nondisabled and a single case study, but with greater external validity because of the nature of the sample chosen and the methodology employed. PPs were greater during dynamic wheelchair locomotion compared with static seating interface pressures, with the peak varying up to 42% during the wheelchair locomotion cycle. The PTI indicates that the cumulative effect of the loading was comparable between conditions. The question that remains is whether this dynamic loading, resulting in a change in PP throughout the cycle, has a significant effect on tissue health.}, }
@article {pmid9519387, year = {1998}, author = {Dollaghan, C}, title = {Late talker or SLI?: the story of Jay X.}, journal = {Seminars in speech and language}, volume = {19}, number = {1}, pages = {7-14}, doi = {10.1055/s-2008-1064030}, pmid = {9519387}, issn = {0734-0478}, mesh = {Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; Humans ; Language Development Disorders/*diagnosis ; Male ; }, abstract = {Distinguishing between children who will "catch up" after delays in early language development (late talkers), and children whose early delays are a harbinger of the condition known as specific language impairment (SLI), remains one of the biggest mysteries facing speech-language pathologists who work with young children. The case of Jay X, a preschool child with a history of delayed language acquisition, illustrates the process by which the crucial pieces of clinical information are accumulated and interpreted to make this determination.}, }
@article {pmid9517831, year = {1998}, author = {Castagna, C and Absil, P and Foidart, A and Balthazart, J}, title = {Systemic and intracerebroventricular injections of vasotocin inhibit appetitive and consummatory components of male sexual behavior in Japanese quail.}, journal = {Behavioral neuroscience}, volume = {112}, number = {1}, pages = {233-250}, doi = {10.1037//0735-7044.112.1.233}, pmid = {9517831}, issn = {0735-7044}, support = {R01 MH50388/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Appetitive Behavior/*drug effects ; Brain/*drug effects ; Copulation/*drug effects ; Coturnix ; Diuresis/drug effects ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Injections, Intraventricular ; Male ; Sexual Behavior, Animal/*drug effects ; Testosterone/pharmacology ; Vasotocin/*pharmacology ; Vocalization, Animal/drug effects ; }, abstract = {The authors investigated the behavioral actions of vasotocin (VT) in castrated testosterone-treated male Japanese quail. The appetitive and consummatory components of sexual behavior as well as the occurrence frequency of crows were inhibited, in a dose-dependent manner, by injections of VT. The authors observed opposite effects after injection of the V1 receptor antagonist, dPTyr(Me)AVP. Lower doses of VT were more active after central than after systemic injection, and effects of systemic injections of VT were blocked by a central injection of dPTyr(Me)AVP. The behavioral inhibition was associated with a modified diuresis after systemic but not central injection. These results provide direct evidence that VT affects male sexual behavior in quail by a direct action on the brain independent of its peripheral action on diuresis.}, }
@article {pmid9516994, year = {1998}, author = {Georgiev, BB and Genov, T}, title = {Redescription of the type-species of the cestode genus Deltokeras (Cyclophyllidea: Paruterinoidea).}, journal = {Folia parasitologica}, volume = {45}, number = {1}, pages = {44-46}, pmid = {9516994}, issn = {0015-5683}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*parasitology ; Cestoda/*anatomy &amp; histology/classification ; Female ; Male ; }, abstract = {The syntypes of Deltokeras ornitheios Meggitt, 1927 (the type-species of Deltokeras Meggitt, 1927), a parasite of Urocissa erythrorhyncha (Passeriformes, Corvidae) in South Asia, are redescribed. Deltokeras is considered a monotypic genus. An amended generic diagnosis is presented.}, }
@article {pmid9507800, year = {1998}, author = {Roberts, TL}, title = {Laser blepharoplasty and laser resurfacing of the periorbital area.}, journal = {Clinics in plastic surgery}, volume = {25}, number = {1}, pages = {95-108}, pmid = {9507800}, issn = {0094-1298}, mesh = {Blepharoplasty/*methods ; *Dermatologic Surgical Procedures ; Eyelids/surgery ; Humans ; *Laser Therapy ; }, abstract = {Although blepharoplasty has long been the traditional method of improving the aesthetic appearance of the eyelid area, it yields little improvement in several of the major signs of periorbital aging including (1) wrinkling of the infrabrow and lower lid skin, (2) crow's foot wrinkles, (3) malar bags and wrinkles, (4) crepey changes in the periorbital skin texture, (5) pigment spots and other actinic damage, (6) elongation of the apparent vertical height of the lower lid, and (7) loss of the gentle, indistinct transition between the lower lid and cheek skin. All of these indications can be improved by the combination of laser blepharoplasty and laser resurfacing of the periorbital region. In addition to resurfacing, the author prefers to use the laser for the incisional aspects of the blepharoplasty, as it is quick, causes less sensory nerve stimulation, is less likely to damage the inferior oblique muscle, and has essentially no bleeding--and therefore, less ecchymosis--postoperatively. This technique is described and illustrated photographically. Its outcomes include a high-quality result that maintains itself well over time, improvement in the signs of periorbital aging not treated by traditional blepharoplasty, a low rate of complication, and high patient satisfaction.}, }
@article {pmid9504368, year = {1998}, author = {Tiplady, B and Jackson, SH and Maskrey, VM and Swift, CG}, title = {Validity and sensitivity of visual analogue scales in young and older healthy subjects.}, journal = {Age and ageing}, volume = {27}, number = {1}, pages = {63-66}, doi = {10.1093/ageing/27.1.63}, pmid = {9504368}, issn = {0002-0729}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*psychology ; Discrimination Learning ; Female ; Geriatric Assessment/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Pain Measurement/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Previous findings from studies on the acute effects of drugs indicate that older subjects report less change on visual analogue scales than do younger subjects, when the observed drug effects on objective performance measures are as great or greater.<br><br>AIM: To validate the use of visual analogue scales independently of internal perceptions.<br><br>SUBJECTS AND METHODS: 50 younger and 50 older subjects rated attributes of four animals--tortoise, crow, tiger and wasp--on a series of 10 cm lines. The attributes rated included physical qualities (size, noise) and psychological aspects (danger).<br><br>RESULTS: Ratings were generally similar for the two groups, although older subjects tended to rate slightly greater differences between animals, but the variability was also slightly greater. Thus the mean difference between tiger and wasp for size was 60.1 (SD 15.6) in the younger group and 68.8 (SD 18.4) in the older group.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: These results support the validity of the use of visual analogue scales in both groups. Explanations for the previously observed discrepancy may need to be sought in terms of an effect of age on the perception of internal changes rather than on any difference in the use of the scales.}, }
@article {pmid9493347, year = {1998}, author = {Legate, NJ and Bailey, JR and Driedzic, WR}, title = {Oxygen consumption in myoglobin-rich and myoglobin-poor isolated fish cardiomyocytes.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental zoology}, volume = {280}, number = {4}, pages = {269-276}, doi = {10.1002/(sici)1097-010x(19980301)280:4&lt;269::aid-jez1&gt;3.0.co;2-m}, pmid = {9493347}, issn = {0022-104X}, mesh = {Animals ; Carbonyl Cyanide m-Chlorophenyl Hydrazone/pharmacology ; Cells, Cultured ; Fishes ; Mitochondria/metabolism ; Myocardium/cytology/*metabolism ; Myoglobin/*physiology ; Oxidation-Reduction ; Oxygen Consumption/*physiology ; Sodium Nitrite/pharmacology ; Uncoupling Agents/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {The function of myoglobin at the cellular level was investigated by comparing O2 consumption in isolated myoglobin-rich cardiac myocytes from the sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus) and myoglobin-poor myocytes from the ocean pout (Macrozoarces americanus). O2 consumption by sea raven myocytes, 0.21 +/- 0.04 microM O2/10(6) cells.min-1, was significantly higher than O2 consumption by ocean pout myocytes, 0.10 +/- 0.07 microM O2/10(6) cells.min-1 at high PO2. O2 consumption in sea raven myocytes treated with sodium nitrite was not significantly different than that in untreated myocytes at high PO2, but it was significantly lower than controls at low PO2. O2 consumption of sea raven myocytes treated with the mitochondrial uncoupler CCCP was not significantly different from that of control myocytes at high PO2, but it was significantly greater than untreated controls at low PO2. In ocean pout preparations, O2 consumption by nitrite-treated myocytes was significantly higher than that of untreated myocytes at high PO2, but it was not different from that of controls at low PO2. CCCP-treated ocean pout myocytes had a significantly higher oxygen consumption than that of untreated myocytes at high PO2, but oxygen consumption was not different from that of controls at low PO2. The CCCP-activated O2 consumption at low PO2 was myoglobin-dependent in that CCCP alone resulted in a threefold increase in sea raven cells over controls but had no impact on sea raven cells in the presence of nitrite or ocean pout cells treated with CCCP alone. This study further supports the contention that myoglobin only plays an important role in oxygen metabolism at low extracellular PO2's.}, }
@article {pmid9486942, year = {1997}, author = {Shimizu, N and Goya, M and Akimoto, H and Koike, A and Nogami, A and Ito, H and Marumo, F and Hiroe, M}, title = {Cardiomyopathy in a case of Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {Japanese heart journal}, volume = {38}, number = {6}, pages = {877-880}, doi = {10.1536/ihj.38.877}, pmid = {9486942}, issn = {0021-4868}, mesh = {Cardiomyopathy, Hypertrophic/*etiology ; Connectin ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Muscle Proteins ; Myeloma Proteins/analysis ; POEMS Syndrome/blood/*complications ; }, abstract = {Crow-Fukase syndrome or POEMS syndrome is a variant of plasma cell dyscrasia that is characterized by polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, the presence of M-protein in serum, and dermatological changes. A 60-year-old man presented with features of Crow-Fukase syndrome, such as the presence of M-protein in serum, dermatological changes, and osteosclerotic changes, but did not have polyneuropathy. To our knowledge, this is the first case of Crow-Fukase syndrome in which the presence of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy has been confirmed by a left endomyocardial biopsy. The findings suggest that hypertrophic cardiomyopathy may be a manifestation of organomegaly in patients with Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid9480220, year = {1997}, author = {Osipova, LP and Kashinskaia, IuO and Posukh, OL and Ivakin, EA and Kriukov, IuA}, title = {[A genetic-demographic study of the South Altaian population of the Mendur-Sokkon village (Altai Republic)].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {33}, number = {11}, pages = {1559-1564}, pmid = {9480220}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Demography ; Ethnicity/genetics ; Female ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Reproduction/physiology ; *Rural Population ; Russia ; Transients and Migrants ; }, abstract = {The main demographic parameters of the population of South Altaians from the Mendur-Sokkon village, Ust'-Kanskii raion, Altai Republic, were studied. This population was classified as a growing one because the population's reproductive size was large (37%), the prereproductive part constituted the majority of the population (52%), and the average number of surviving children per spouse was 2.6. The population studied began to mix with other ethnic groups (mostly Russians and Kazakhs) only recently; therefore, the proportion of interethnic hybrids was only 5%. The tribal structure of the Mendur-Sokkon population was typical of all South Altaians and characterized by stringent observance of exogamous regulations. An ethnically pure core was preserved in the population. The degree of endogamy was 0.36; however, the population mostly exchanged marriage migrants within the Ust'-Kanskii raion. A study of postreproductive females revealed that the average number of surviving children and pregnancies per female was 4.9 and 5.3, respectively; these values were lower than those in indigenous northern Siberian populations studied earlier. The high value of the Crow's index of total selection (Itot = 0.63) was mainly accounted for by the differential fecundity component, I(f) = 0.40, whereas the prereproductive mortality component (Im = 0.16) was considerably lower than in northern Siberian populations (Nganasans, Forest and Tundra Nentsi, Evens, Asian Eskimos, etc.) and closer to the values characteristic of urban human populations.}, }
@article {pmid9460788, year = {1998}, author = {Barnard, N and Crewther, SG and Crewther, DP}, title = {Development of a magnocellular function in good and poor primary school-age readers.}, journal = {Optometry and vision science : official publication of the American Academy of Optometry}, volume = {75}, number = {1}, pages = {62-68}, doi = {10.1097/00006324-199801000-00026}, pmid = {9460788}, issn = {1040-5488}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Contrast Sensitivity/*physiology ; Dyslexia/*physiopathology ; Flicker Fusion ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Reading ; Retinal Ganglion Cells/physiology ; Visual Cortex/physiopathology ; Visual Pathways/*physiology ; Visual Perception/physiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Abnormal functioning of the transient visual pathway (the M-pathway) has been implicated in specific reading disability (SRD). The aim of this study is to examine the contrast thresholds for flicker-defined form discrimination in primary school children, and to compare its development with reading and mentation development as a means of identifying children at risk of SRD.<br><br>METHODS: One hundred eighty-seven children (aged 4 to 13 years) and 22 adults (aged 18 to 45 years) were assessed for contrast sensitivity to an illusory, flicker contrast-defined form (the letter 'E')--a task which was designed to rely to a large extent on magnocellular pathway function. Reading age (Neale Analysis of Reading) and mental age (Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices) were assessed in the children, who had been previously screened for clinically normal binocular vision and refractive anomalies.<br><br>RESULTS: The ability of primary school-age children to discriminate the orientation of the low contrast flickered letters (from a choice of 4) showed a significant improvement from kindergarten (ages 4 to 6 years) to grade 3 (ages 8 to 10 years) and older age groups. No significant difference was found between good and disabled readers (at least 1-year lag in reading readiness for the kindergarten group and 2-year lag in reading performance for 8 to 10 and 10 to 12-year-olds).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: It appears that there is a developmental improvement in perceptual capacity for tasks attributed to magnocellular function, which plateaus at the age of about 8 to 10 years. However, despite the reported reduction of magnocellular function in specific reading disabled children, no significant difference in contrast threshold for flicker-defined letter discrimination was found between good and poor readers.}, }
@article {pmid9348619, year = {1997}, author = {Nisii, H and Hirai, T and Ohara, H and Masuda, Y}, title = {Laparoscopic Hill's vagotomy by the abdominal wall lifting method.}, journal = {Surgical laparoscopy &amp; endoscopy}, volume = {7}, number = {5}, pages = {394-398}, pmid = {9348619}, issn = {1051-7200}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Duodenal Ulcer/surgery ; Humans ; Laparoscopes ; Laparoscopy/*methods ; Middle Aged ; Surgical Instruments ; Vagotomy/instrumentation/*methods ; }, abstract = {We performed laparoscopic Hill's vagotomy by the abdominal wall lifting method in nine patients with intractable duodenal ulcer. Our original I-type lifting bar is a curved stainless-steel rod 5 mm in diameter. One I-type lifting bar is inserted intraperitoneally into each of the right and left hypochondrial regions. An incision is made in the lesser omentum near the gastroesophageal junction, and the right esophageal wall and right crus of the diaphragm are dissected and exposed. The posterior trunk of the vagus nerve is identified and divided. Then the neurovascular bundle is dissected and divided repeatedly along the lesser curvature of the stomach from the first branch of the crow's foot to the gastroesophageal junction. The mean operating time was 163 min, with little blood loss. The reduction rate of basal acid output and maximal acid output was, respectively, 73.7 +/- 0.1 and 63.7 +/- 0.1%. Four weeks after surgery, gastroduodenoscopy revealed ulcer healing to a scar.}, }
@article {pmid9455280, year = {1997}, author = {Jay, M}, title = {Jay talking. Interview by Rodney Porter.}, journal = {Nursing times}, volume = {93}, number = {50}, pages = {12-13}, pmid = {9455280}, issn = {0954-7762}, mesh = {Health Care Reform ; Humans ; *Nursing ; *Politics ; *State Medicine ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid9453699, year = {1997}, author = {Willey, P and Galloway, A and Snyder, L}, title = {Bone mineral density and survival of elements and element portions in the bones of the Crow Creek massacre victims.}, journal = {American journal of physical anthropology}, volume = {104}, number = {4}, pages = {513-528}, doi = {10.1002/(SICI)1096-8644(199712)104:4&lt;513::AID-AJPA6&gt;3.0.CO;2-S}, pmid = {9453699}, issn = {0002-9483}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Anthropology, Physical/*methods ; Archaeology/*methods ; *Bone Density ; Bone and Bones ; Cannibalism ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; }, abstract = {The interpretation of archaeologically-derived skeletal series is dependent on the elements and portions of elements preserved for examination. Bone and bone portion survival is affected by factors, both intrinsic and extrinsic to the elements themselves, that influence deterioration and preservation. Among the intrinsic variables, the density of the element and element portion are particularly important with respect to the degree of preservation. Recently reported bone mineral density values from a contemporary human sample are compared to the survival of prehistoric limb bones of the Crow Creek specimens, a fourteenth-century massacre skeletal series. The contemporary density values are positively correlated with Crow Creek element and element portion survival. Two calculations of bone mineral density, however, are more closely related to preservation than a third. Such density information has implications for assessing minimum number of elements and individuals and documenting taphonomic processes.}, }
@article {pmid9446525, year = {1997}, author = {Fieguth, A and Kistenmacher, L and Tröger, HD and Kleemann, WJ}, title = {[Fatalities caused by exposure to heat].}, journal = {Archiv fur Kriminologie}, volume = {200}, number = {3-4}, pages = {79-86}, pmid = {9446525}, issn = {0003-9225}, mesh = {Accidents/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Burns/*pathology ; Carbon Monoxide Poisoning/pathology ; Cause of Death ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Heat Exhaustion/*pathology ; Homicide/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Humans ; Lung/pathology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Suicide/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; }, abstract = {Between 1978 and 1987 52 cases of death by burning or in connection with fire (13 females and 39 males) were examined at the Institute of Legal Medicine of the Medical School of Hannover. The causes were fires in flats (25), cars (15) and buildings(4), clothes set on fire (3) and explosions (3). In two cases death was caused by scalding. These cases could be divided into accidents (30), over 1/3 caused by smoking (11)), suicides (9) and homicides (6). The other seven cases could not be clarified definitively. Evidence of CO-elevation (38), soot inhalation (33), petechiae (11) and "crow's feet" (6) were noted. However, isolated findings cannot lead to a satisfactory assessment after death by burning. The reconstruction of events requires a comprehensive evaluation of the case history, the scene of death and the autopsy as well as complementary analyses. Therefore intensive cooperation between criminal investigators and forensic physicians is absolutely necessary.}, }
@article {pmid9445810, year = {1997}, author = {Ivanov, VP and Churnosov, MI and Kirilenko, AI}, title = {[Selection intensity in the population of Kurst district].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {33}, number = {10}, pages = {1438-1440}, pmid = {9445810}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Demography ; Emigration and Immigration ; Ethnicity/genetics ; Female ; Homozygote ; Humans ; Male ; *Rural Population ; Russia ; *Selection, Genetic ; *Urban Population ; }, abstract = {Total selection indices and their components in the Kursk Oblast, calculated from Crow's equations, are: Itot = = 0.403, I(f) = 0.345, Im = 0.043. The selection intensity was higher in rural than in urban populations. The levels of total selection and differential fertility in rural populations depended on the genetic and demographic structure of these populations. An increase of homozygosity in the rural populations (decreases in the mean square distance between spouses' birthplaces and in the frequency of long-range migrations, increase in ethnic assortativeness, etc.) increased the selection intensity.}, }
@article {pmid9434858, year = {1997}, author = {Bishop, JB and Witt, KL and Sloane, RA}, title = {Genetic toxicities of human teratogens.}, journal = {Mutation research}, volume = {396}, number = {1-2}, pages = {9-43}, doi = {10.1016/s0027-5107(97)00173-5}, pmid = {9434858}, issn = {0027-5107}, mesh = {Animals ; Congenital Abnormalities/etiology ; DNA/drug effects/radiation effects ; *DNA Damage ; Embryonic and Fetal Development/drug effects ; Environmental Exposure ; Female ; Gene Expression Regulation/drug effects ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; Infections/complications ; Metabolic Diseases ; Mice ; Mutagenicity Tests ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Complications/metabolism ; Pregnancy Complications, Infectious ; Teratogens/*pharmacology/toxicity ; }, abstract = {Birth defects cause a myriad of societal problems and place tremendous anguish on the affected individual and his or her family. Current estimates categorize about 3% of all newborn infants as having some form of birth defect or congenital anomaly. As more precise means of detecting subtle anomalies become available this estimate, no doubt, will increase. Even though birth defects have been observed in newborns throughout history, our knowledge about the causes and mechanisms through which these defects are manifested is limited. For example, it has been estimated that around 20% of all birth defects are due to gene mutations, 5-10% to chromosomal abnormalities, and another 5-10% to exposure to a known teratogenic agent or maternal factor [D.A. Beckman, R.L. Brent, Mechanisms of teratogenesis. Ann. Rev. Pharmacol. Toxicol. 24 (1984) 483-500; K. Nelson, L.B. Holmes Malformations due to presumed spontaneous mutations in newborn infants, N. Engl. J. Med. 320 (1989) 19-23.]. Together, these percentages account for only 30-40%, leaving the etiology of more than half of all human birth defects unexplained. It has been speculated that environmental factors account for no more than one-tenth of all congenital anomalies [D.A. Beckman, R.L. Brent, Mechanisms of teratogenesis, Ann. Rev. Pharmacol. Toxicol. 24 (1984) 483-500]. Furthermore, since there is no evidence in humans that the exposure of an individual to any mutagen measurably increases the risk of congenital anomalies in his or her offspring' [J.F. Crow, C. Denniston, Mutation in human populations, Adv. Human Genet. 14 (1985) 59-121; J.M. Friedman, J.E. Polifka, Teratogenic Effects of Drugs: A Resource for Clinicians (TERIS). The John Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, 1994], the mutagenic activity of environmental agents and drugs as a factor in teratogenesis has been given very little attention. Epigenetic activity has also been given only limited consideration as a mechanism for teratogenesis. As new molecular methods are developed for assessing processes associated with teratogenesis, especially those with a genetic or an epigenetic basis, additional environmental factors may be identified. These are especially important because they are potentially preventable. This paper examines the relationships between chemicals identified as human teratogens (agents that cause birth defects) and their mutagenic activity as evaluated in one or more of the established short-term bioassays currently used to measure such damage. Those agents lacking mutagenic activity but with published evidence that they may otherwise alter the expressions or regulate interactions of the genetic material, i.e. exhibit epigenetic activity, have likewise been identified. The information used in making these comparisons comes from the published literature as well as from unpublished data of the U.S. National Toxicology Program (NTP).}, }
@article {pmid9421987, year = {1997}, author = {Hajek, VE and Gagnon, S and Ruderman, JE}, title = {Cognitive and functional assessments of stroke patients: an analysis of their relation.}, journal = {Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation}, volume = {78}, number = {12}, pages = {1331-1337}, doi = {10.1016/s0003-9993(97)90306-3}, pmid = {9421987}, issn = {0003-9993}, mesh = {*Activities of Daily Living ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cerebrovascular Disorders/*rehabilitation ; *Cognition ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Female ; *Health Status Indicators ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To improve the assessment of stroke patients for the purpose of designing rehabilitation treatments and predicting rehabilitation outcomes. Specific objectives included the evaluation of the power of functional scales to properly assess both physical and cognitive disabilities, and the evaluation of the relations between functional, neurological, physical, and cognitive assessments. The hypothesis was that the relations between different assessment types (eg, functional, neurological, etc) can be assessed by the relations between the results of these assessments when administered to stroke patients.<br><br>DESIGN: Sixty-six stroke patients were administered a series of tests including functional assessments (Functional Independence Measure, barthel Index, Rankin Functional Scale), neurological assessments (Canadian Neurological Scale, National Institute of Health Stroke Scale), physical assessments (Stages of Motor Recovery, Clinical Outcome Variables Scale), and cognitive assessments (Stroke Unit Mental Status Examination, Mini Mental State, Raven Matrices, Boston Naming Test).<br><br>RESULTS: Analysis of correlation coefficients revealed that the stronger relationships were observed between functional assessments and physical assessments, and between functional assessments and neurological assessments. Cognitive tests did not correlate highly with any of the functional tests used in this study. Three factors were extracted using factor analysis. They were interpreted as being a physical disability factor (50% of the variance), a cognitive disability factor (23% of the variance), and a dementia factor (12% of variance). Functional scales obtained higher loads on the physical disability factor only.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Considering that cognitive functions are frequently affected in stroke patients, cognitive impairment needs to be more seriously considered when describing and/or predicting a patient's level of independence. In brain injured patients, such as stroke patients, we suggest that the total score provided by standardized functional scales should be interpreted with care. We believe that rehabilitation outcome could be better predicted if the results of functional assessment were coupled with in-depth cognitive assessment.}, }
@article {pmid9398375, year = {1997}, author = {Soler, M and Soler, JJ and Martinez, JG}, title = {Great spotted cuckoos improve their reproductive success by damaging magpie host eggs.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {54}, number = {5}, pages = {1227-1233}, doi = {10.1006/anbe.1997.0524}, pmid = {9398375}, issn = {0003-3472}, abstract = {Adult great spotted cuckoos, Clamator glandariusdamage the eggs of their magpie, Pica picahost without removing or eating them. The number of damaged magpie eggs was recorded in 360 parasitized nests of which 62.2% contained between one and eight damaged magpie eggs. Egg-destroying behaviour may be adaptive if it reduces nestling competition and/or enhances the hatching success of the cuckoo. To clarify the role of egg destruction for the reproductive success of great spotted cuckoos, unparasitized magpie nests were experimentally parasitized (without egg damage) by introducing cuckoo eggs or chicks. Egg damage was common in parasitized nests but the eggs were not damaged by the hosts. Egg damage increased the breeding success of the cuckoos, by both reducing the number of competing host chicks in the nest and increasing the likelihood that late-laid cuckoo eggs would hatch.Copyright 1997 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour1997The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour}, }
@article {pmid9392856, year = {1997}, author = {Wierzbicki, A and Madura, JD and Salmon, C and Sönnichsen, F}, title = {Modeling studies of binding of sea raven type II antifreeze protein to ice.}, journal = {Journal of chemical information and computer sciences}, volume = {37}, number = {6}, pages = {1006-1010}, doi = {10.1021/ci9702353}, pmid = {9392856}, issn = {0095-2338}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; *Antifreeze Proteins, Type II ; Carrier Proteins/*chemistry ; Chemical Phenomena ; Chemistry, Physical ; Models, Chemical ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Software ; }, abstract = {Certain plants, insects, and fish living in cold environments prevent tissue damage due to freezing by producing antifreeze proteins or antifreeze glycoproteins that inhibit ice growth below the normal equilibrium freezing point of water in a noncolligative fashion. In polar fish these macromolecules, taking into account their structural characteristics, are grouped into three broad classes, namely Type I, Type II, and Type III. In this paper we report the results of our studies on the stereospecific binding of sea raven, a Type II antifreeze protein (AFP) to (111) hexagonal bipyramidal faces of ice. Earlier studies of Type I and Type III AFPs have shown that stereospecific binding of these proteins, recognizing specific planes of ice, is essential for their noncolligative antifreeze point depression. Moreover, as it has been shown for the AFT of Type I, this binding also occurs along specific vectors on these planes and also is enantioselective, distinguishing between the mirror related directions. In this study we will show, by using molecular modeling, that the fold of Type II AFP could facilitate a stereospecific mode of interaction with (111) planes of ice. Similar to Type I AFP, preferential directionality of binding was also observed in the simulations.}, }
@article {pmid9390456, year = {1997}, author = {Loewen, MC and Liu, X and Davies, PL and Daugulis, AJ}, title = {Biosynthetic production of type II fish antifreeze protein: fermentation by Pichia pastoris.}, journal = {Applied microbiology and biotechnology}, volume = {48}, number = {4}, pages = {480-486}, doi = {10.1007/s002530051083}, pmid = {9390456}, issn = {0175-7598}, mesh = {Amino Acids/metabolism ; Animals ; *Antifreeze Proteins, Type II ; Carrier Proteins/*biosynthesis ; Culture Media ; Fermentation ; Fishes/genetics ; Glycerol/metabolism ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Methanol/metabolism ; Oxygen/metabolism ; Pichia/*metabolism ; Plasmids ; Recombinant Fusion Proteins/*biosynthesis ; }, abstract = {Sea raven type II antifreeze protein (SRAFP) is one of three different fish antifreeze proteins isolated to date. These proteins are known to bind to the surface of ice and inhibit its growth. To solve the three-dimensional structure of SRAFP, study its ice-binding mechanism, and as a basis for engineering these molecules, an efficient system for its biosynthetic production was developed. Several different expression systems have been tested including baculovirus, Escherichia coli and yeast. The latter, using the methylotrophic organism Pichia pastoris as the host, was the most productive. In shake-flask cultures the levels of SRAFP secreted from Pichia were up to 5 mg/l. The recombinant protein has an identical activity to SRAFP from sea raven serum. In order to increase yields further, four different strategies were tested in 10-l fermentation vessels, including: (1) optimization of pH and dissolved oxygen, (2) mixed feeding of methanol and glycerol with Mut(s) clones, (3) supplementation of amino acid building blocks, and (4) methanol feeding with Mut+ clones. The mixed-feeding/Mut(s) strategy proved to be the most efficient with SRAFP yields reaching 30 mg/l.}, }
@article {pmid9360313, year = {1997}, author = {Tobalske, BW and Olson, NE and Dial, KP}, title = {Flight style of the black-billed magpie: variation in wing kinematics, neuromuscular control, and muscle composition.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental zoology}, volume = {279}, number = {4}, pages = {313-329}, doi = {10.1002/(sici)1097-010x(19971101)279:4&lt;313::aid-jez1&gt;3.0.co;2-r}, pmid = {9360313}, issn = {0022-104X}, mesh = {Animals ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Birds/*physiology ; Electromyography ; Flight, Animal/*physiology ; Muscle Fibers, Fast-Twitch/physiology ; Muscle, Skeletal/anatomy &amp; histology/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Black-billed magpies (Pica pica; Corvidae) exhibit an unusual flight style with pronounced, cyclic variation in wingbeat frequency and amplitude during level, cruising flight. In an effort to better understand the underlying internal mechanisms associated with this flight style, we studied muscle activity patterns, fiber composition of the pectoralis muscle, and wingbeat kinematics using both laboratory and field techniques. Over a wide range of speeds in a windtunnel (0-13.4 m s-1), wingbeat frequency, wingtip elevation, and relative intensity of electromyographic (EMG) signals s-1 from the flight muscles were least at intermediate speeds, and increased at both slower and faster speeds, in approximate agreement with theoretical models that predict a U-shaped curve of power output with flight speed. Considerable variation was evident in kinematic and electromyographic variables, but variation was continuous, and, thus, was not adequately described by the simple two-gait system which is currently accepted as describing gait selection during vertebrate flight. Indirect evidence suggests that magpies vary their flight style consistent with reducing average power costs in comparison to costs associated with continuous flapping at a fixed level of power per wingbeat. The range of variation for the kinematic variables was similar in the field and lab; however, in the field, proportionally fewer flights showed significant correlations between wingbeat frequency and the other variables. Average flight speed in the field was 8.0 m s-1. Average wingbeat frequency was less in the field than in the windtunnel, but mean values for wingtip elevation and wingspan at midupstroke were not significantly different. Histological study revealed that the pectoralis muscle of magpies contained only fast-twitch (acid-stable) muscle fibers, which were classified as red (R) and intermediate (I) based on oxidative and glycolytic capacities along with fiber diameter. This fiber composition may be related to variation in wingbeat kinematics, but such composition is found in the pectoralis of other bird species. This suggests that the muscle fibers commonly found in the pectoralis of small to medium sized birds are capable of a wider range of efficient contractile velocities than predicted by existing theory. Future studies should explore alternative explanations for variation in wingbeat kinematics, including the potential role of nonverbal communication among cospecifics.}, }
@article {pmid9356898, year = {1997}, author = {Smits, CH and Smit, JH and van den Heuvel, N and Jonker, C}, title = {Norms for an abbreviated Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices in an older sample.}, journal = {Journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {53}, number = {7}, pages = {687-697}, doi = {10.1002/(sici)1097-4679(199711)53:7&lt;687::aid-jclp6&gt;3.0.co;2-f}, pmid = {9356898}, issn = {0021-9762}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/standards/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Reference Values ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {Percentile age norms for ages 55 to 85 using overlapping intervals at specified age midpoints are presented for the sum scores of sections A and B of Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM). The representative age and gender stratified sample (N = 2,815) used is derived from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (the Netherlands). As RCPM scores appear to be strongly associated with education, percentile norms for three educational levels are presented: low (0-9 years), middle (10-15 years) and high (16 years and more).}, }
@article {pmid9343133, year = {1997}, author = {Zuccalà, G and Cattel, C and Manes-Gravina, E and Di Niro, MG and Cocchi, A and Bernabei, R}, title = {Left ventricular dysfunction: a clue to cognitive impairment in older patients with heart failure.}, journal = {Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry}, volume = {63}, number = {4}, pages = {509-512}, doi = {10.1136/jnnp.63.4.509}, pmid = {9343133}, issn = {0022-3050}, mesh = {Aged ; Analysis of Variance ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology ; Female ; Functional Laterality ; Heart Failure/*complications ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Severity of Illness Index ; Ventricular Dysfunction, Left/*complications ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Cognitive impairment has been reported in middle aged patients with end stage heart failure. This cross sectional study assessed the prevalence and determinants of cognitive dysfunction in older patients with mild to moderate heart failure.<br><br>METHODS: 57 consecutive patients (mean age 76.7 years) with chronic heart failure underwent physical examination, blood chemistry, urinalysis, chest radiography ECG, Doppler echocardiography, and the mini mental state examination (MMSE), mental deterioration battery, depression scale of the Center for Epidemiological Studies (CES-D), Katz activities of daily living, and instrumental activities of daily living 24 hours before hospital discharge.<br><br>RESULTS: MMSE scores <24 were found in 53% of participants. The MMSE score was associated with left ventricular ejection fraction according to a non-linear correlation, so that cognitive performance was significantly lower in subjects with left ventricular ejection fraction < or =30%. The same pattern of correlation was evidenced between left ventricular ejection fraction and both the attention sub-item of MMSE and the Raven test score. In a multivariate linear regression model, after adjusting for age, sex, and a series of clinical data and objective tests, both age (beta=-0.30; P=0.038) and the natural log of left ventricular ejection fraction (beta=0.58; P=0.001) were associated with the MMSE score.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Cognitive impairment in older patients with chronic heart failure is common, and independently associated with lower left ventricular ejection fraction. Given the overwhelming incidence and prevalence of heart failure in older populations, early detection of cognitive impairment in these subjects with prompt, intensive treatment of left ventricular systolic dysfunction may prevent or delay a remarkable proportion of dementia in advanced age.}, }
@article {pmid9341098, year = {1997}, author = {de la Iglesia, FA and Gough, AW and Sigler, RE}, title = {alpha2u-Globulin nephropathy and ravens: do ravens of a different feather flock together?.}, journal = {Environmental health perspectives}, volume = {105}, number = {9}, pages = {903-904}, pmid = {9341098}, issn = {0091-6765}, mesh = {Acetates/*adverse effects ; Alpha-Globulins/adverse effects/*biosynthesis/metabolism ; *Amines ; Animals ; Anticonvulsants/*adverse effects ; Carcinogenicity Tests ; *Cyclohexanecarboxylic Acids ; Gabapentin ; Humans ; Kidney/drug effects/pathology ; Kidney Neoplasms/*chemically induced/etiology ; Rats ; Reproducibility of Results ; *gamma-Aminobutyric Acid ; }, }
@article {pmid9336215, year = {1997}, author = {Ohnesorge, FM and Hörber, JK and Häberle, W and Czerny, CP and Smith, DP and Binnig, G}, title = {AFM review study on pox viruses and living cells.}, journal = {Biophysical journal}, volume = {73}, number = {4}, pages = {2183-2194}, pmid = {9336215}, issn = {0006-3495}, mesh = {Animals ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Biophysical Phenomena ; Biophysics ; Cells, Cultured ; Elasticity ; Haplorhini ; *Microscopy, Atomic Force ; Poxviridae/*pathogenicity/physiology/*ultrastructure ; Poxviridae Infections/pathology/virology ; Virus Replication ; Viscosity ; }, abstract = {Single living cells were studied in growth medium by atomic force microscopy at a high--down to one image frame per second--imaging rate over time periods of many hours, stably producing hundreds of consecutive scans with a lateral resolution of approximately 30-40 nm. The cell was held by a micropipette mounted onto the scanner-piezo as shown in Häberle, W., J. K. H. Hörber, and G. Binnig. 1991. Force microscopy on living cells. J. Vac. Sci. Technol. B9:1210-0000. To initiate specific processes on the cell surface the cells had been infected with pox viruses as reported earlier and, most likely, the liberation of a progeny virion by the still-living cell was observed, hence confirming and supporting earlier results (Häberle, W., J. K. H. Hörber, F. Ohnesorge, D. P. E. Smith, and G. Binnig. 1992. In situ investigations of single living cells infected by viruses. Ultramicroscopy. 42-44:1161-0000; Hörber, J. K. H., W. Häberle, F. Ohnesorge, G. Binnig, H. G. Liebich, C. P. Czerny, H. Mahnel, and A. Mayr. 1992. Investigation of living cells in the nanometer regime with the atomic force microscope. Scanning Microscopy. 6:919-930). Furthermore, the pox viruses used were characterized separately by AFM in an aqueous environment down to the molecular level. Quasi-ordered structural details were resolved on a scale of a few nm where, however, image distortions and artifacts due to multiple tip effects are probably involved--just as in very high resolution (<15-20 nm) images on the cells. Although in a very preliminary manner, initial studies on the mechanical resonance properties of a single living (noninfected) cell, held by the micropipette, have been performed. In particular, frequency response spectra were recorded that indicate elastic properties and enough stiffness of these cells to make the demonstrated rapid scanning of the imaging tip plausible. Measurements of this kind, especially if they can be proven to be cell-type specific, may perhaps have a large potential for biomedical applications. Images of these living cells were also recorded in the widely known (e.g., Radmacher, M., R. W. Tillmann, and H. E. Gaub. 1993. Imaging viscoelasticity by force modulation with the atomic force microscope. Biophys. J. 64:735-742) force modulation mode, yet at one low modulation frequency of approximately 2 kHz. (Note: After the cells were attached to the pipette by suction, they first deformed significantly and then reassumed their original spherical shape, which they also acquire when freely suspended in solution, to a great extent with the exception of the portion adjusting to the pipette edge geometry after approximately 0.5-1 h, which occurred in almost the same manner with uninfected cells, and those that had been infected several hours earlier. This seems to be a process which is at least actively supported by the cellular cytoskeleton, rather than a mere osmotic pressure effect induced by electrolyte transport through the membrane. Furthermore, several hours postinfection (p.i.) infected cells developed many optically visible refraction effects, which appeared as small dark spots in the light microscope, that we believed to be the regions in the cell plasma where viruses are assembled; this is known from the literature on electron microscopy on pox-infected cells and referred to there as "virus factories" (e.g., Moss, B. 1986. Replication of pox viruses. In Fundamental Virology, B. N. Fields and D. M. Knape, editors. Raven Press, New York. 637-655). Therefore, we assume that the cells stay alive during imaging, in our experience for approximately 30-45 h p.i.).}, }
@article {pmid9314882, year = {1997}, author = {Larkin, M}, title = {Jay Hoofnagle: soldiering on against viral hepatitis.}, journal = {Lancet (London, England)}, volume = {350}, number = {9082}, pages = {938}, doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(05)63281-3}, pmid = {9314882}, issn = {0140-6736}, mesh = {Animals ; Hepatitis, Viral, Human/*therapy ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; National Institutes of Health (U.S.) ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid9308329, year = {1997}, author = {Lai, KA and Lin, CJ and Su, FC}, title = {Gait analysis of adult patients with complete congenital dislocation of the hip.}, journal = {Journal of the Formosan Medical Association = Taiwan yi zhi}, volume = {96}, number = {9}, pages = {740-744}, pmid = {9308329}, issn = {0929-6646}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; *Gait ; Hip Dislocation, Congenital/*physiopathology ; Humans ; }, abstract = {Comprehensive gait analysis is valuable in understanding the performance of patients with lower limb disorders. The gait pattern of adult patients with untreated congenital dislocation of the hip (CDH) has not yet been reported. We studied the gait pattern in nine women (mean age 31.4 years) with Crows group IV CDH. Six had unilateral and three had bilateral involvement. They were not treated during childhood and had no pain at the time of study. A control group comprised 15 normal female subjects of the same age group. Gait was studied using a motion-analysis system, force plateforms, and computer calculation during level walking. Common abnormal gait patterns seen in patients with both unilateral and bilateral CDH were slower walking velocity, which was due to a shorter stride length, less forward tilting of the pelvis, insufficient flexion, and excessive internal rotation of the hips. The patients with unilateral CDH had a shorter step length, lower pelvis, a lateral shift of the ground reaction force, decreased maximum adduction moments of the hip and knee on the diseased side, and increased maximum adduction moments of the hip and knee on the unaffected side. This asymmetry may have been due to leg length inequality. Thus, correlation of the leg length discrepancy may be important for unilateral CDH patients in improving their gait.}, }
@article {pmid9381236, year = {1997}, author = {Sandiford, P and Cassel, J and Sanchez, G and Coldham, C}, title = {Does intelligence account for the link between maternal literacy and child survival?.}, journal = {Social science &amp; medicine (1982)}, volume = {45}, number = {8}, pages = {1231-1239}, doi = {10.1016/s0277-9536(97)00042-7}, pmid = {9381236}, issn = {0277-9536}, mesh = {Adult ; Child ; *Child Welfare ; *Educational Status ; Female ; Housing ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant Mortality ; *Intelligence ; Maternal Behavior ; Nicaragua ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {The strong and consistent correlation between maternal education and child health is now well known, and numerous studies have shown that wealth and income cannot explain the link. Policy-makers have therefore assumed that the relationship is causal and explicitly advocate schooling as a child health intervention. However, there are other factors which could account for the apparent effect of maternal education on child morbidity and mortality, one of which is intelligence. This paper examines the effect of maternal intelligence on child health and looks at the degree to which it can explain the literacy associations with child survival and risk of malnutrition. The data are from a retrospective cohort study of 1294 mothers and their 7475 offspring, of whom 454 were women who had learned to read and write as adults in Nicaragua's literacy programme, 457 were illiterate, and 383 had become literate as young girls attending school. The women's intelligence was tested using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices. Acquisition of literacy was strongly related to intelligence. Statistically significant associations with maternal literacy were found for under five mortality, infant mortality, and the risk of low mid-upper-arm circumference (MUAC) for age, before and after controlling for a wide range of socio-economic factors. Under five, child (one to four years), infant and post-neonatal mortality plus the risk of low height for age were significantly correlated with intelligence, but only with infant and under mortality rates did the association remain significant after controlling for socio-economic factors. A significant interaction between intelligence and literacy for under five mortality was due to literacy having a strong effect in the women of low intelligence, and a negligible effect among those of high intelligence. This study provides evidence that intelligence is an important determinant of child health among the illiterate, and that education may have the greatest impact on child health for mothers of relatively low intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid9299889, year = {1997}, author = {Madrigal, L and Ware, B}, title = {Inbreeding in Escazú, Costa Rica (1800-1840, 1850-1899): isonymy and ecclesiastical dispensations.}, journal = {Human biology}, volume = {69}, number = {5}, pages = {703-714}, pmid = {9299889}, issn = {0018-7143}, mesh = {Anthropology/history ; Catholicism/*history ; *Consanguinity ; Costa Rica ; Female ; Genetics, Population/*history ; History, 19th Century ; Humans ; Male ; Names ; }, abstract = {We investigate the inbreeding levels in Escazú, Costa Rica, during 1800-1840 and 1850-1899. Inbreeding was researched through analysis of ecclesiastical dispensations and by two isonymy methods (Crow and Mange 1965; Pinto-Cisternas et al. 1985). As expected, the dispensation inbreeding coefficients were lower than those obtained through isonymy. However, the three methods indicate that consanguinity increased in the community during the second part of the nineteenth century.}, }
@article {pmid9256491, year = {1997}, author = {Vlcek, C and Paces, V and Maltsev, N and Paces, J and Haselkorn, R and Fonstein, M}, title = {Sequence of a 189-kb segment of the chromosome of Rhodobacter capsulatus SB1003.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {94}, number = {17}, pages = {9384-9388}, pmid = {9256491}, issn = {0027-8424}, mesh = {*Chromosomes, Bacterial ; Rhodobacter capsulatus/*genetics ; Sequence Analysis ; }, abstract = {Cosmids from the 1A3-1A10 region of the complete miniset were individually subcloned by using the vector M13 mp18. Sequences of each cosmid were assembled from about 400 DNA fragments generated from the ends of these phage subclones and merged into one 189-kb contig. About 160 ORFs identified by the CodonUse program were subjected to similarity searches. The biological functions of 80 ORFs could be assigned reliably by using the WIT and Magpie genome investigation tools. Eighty percent of these recognizable ORFs were organized in functional clusters, which simplified assignment decisions and increased the strength of the predictions. A set of 26 genes for cobalamin biosynthesis, genes for polyhydroxyalkanoic acid metabolism, DNA replication and recombination, and DNA gyrase were among those identified. Most of the ORFs lacking significant similarity with reference databases also were grouped. There are two large clusters of these ORFs, one located between 45 and 67 kb of the map, and the other between 150 and 183 kb. Nine of the loosely identified ORFs (of 15) of the first of these clusters match ORFs from phages or transposons. The other cluster also has four ORFs of possible phage origin.}, }
@article {pmid9284386, year = {1997}, author = {Ley, DH and Berkhoff, JE and Levisohn, S}, title = {Molecular epidemiologic investigations of Mycoplasma gallisepticum conjunctivitis in songbirds by random amplified polymorphic DNA analyses.}, journal = {Emerging infectious diseases}, volume = {3}, number = {3}, pages = {375-380}, pmid = {9284386}, issn = {1080-6040}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/*microbiology ; Birds ; Conjunctivitis, Bacterial/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; DNA Primers/genetics ; DNA, Bacterial/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Disease Outbreaks/veterinary ; Mycoplasma/*genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; Mycoplasma Infections/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Technique ; United States/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {An ongoing outbreak of conjunctivitis in free-ranging house finches (Carpodacus mexicanus) began in 1994 in the eastern United States. Bacterial organisms identified as Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) were isolated from lesions of infected birds. MG was also isolated from a blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata) that contracted conjunctivitis after being housed in a cage previously occupied by house finches with conjunctivitis, and from free-ranging American goldfinches (Carduelis tristis) in North Carolina in 1996. To investigate the molecular epidemiology of this outbreak, we produced DNA fingerprints of MG isolates by random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD). We compared MG isolates from songbirds examined from 1994 through 1996 in 11 states, representing three host species, with vaccine and reference strains and with contemporary MG isolates from commercial poultry. All MG isolates from songbirds had RAPD banding patterns identical to each other but different from other strains and isolates tested. These results indicate that the outbreak of MG in songbirds is caused by the same strain, which suggests a single source; the outbreak is not caused by the vaccine or reference strains analyzed; and MG infection has not been shared between songbirds and commercial poultry.}, }
@article {pmid9246523, year = {1997}, author = {Posnick, JC}, title = {The treatment of secondary and residual dentofacial deformities in the cleft patient. Surgical and orthodontic therapy.}, journal = {Clinics in plastic surgery}, volume = {24}, number = {3}, pages = {583-597}, pmid = {9246523}, issn = {0094-1298}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Cleft Lip/*complications/therapy ; Cleft Palate/*complications/therapy ; Craniofacial Abnormalities/etiology/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Orthodontics/*methods ; Retrospective Studies ; Surgery, Plastic/*methods ; Tooth Abnormalities/etiology/*surgery ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {The methods described to manage secondary jay deformities, resulting malocclusion, residual oronasal fistulas, and bony defects in adolescents born with a cleft are safe and reliable when carried out by an experienced cleft surgeon and team. They enhance the patient's quality of life and well-being. They also provide a stable foundation in which final soft-tissue lip and nose revisions may be carried out.}, }
@article {pmid9219579, year = {1997}, author = {Gavrilov, LA and Gavrilova, NS and Kroutko, VN and Evdokushkina, GN and Semyonova, VG and Gavrilova, AL and Lapshin, EV and Evdokushkina, NN and Kushnareva, YE}, title = {Mutation load and human longevity.}, journal = {Mutation research}, volume = {377}, number = {1}, pages = {61-62}, doi = {10.1016/s0027-5107(97)00058-4}, pmid = {9219579}, issn = {0027-5107}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Europe ; Female ; Humans ; Longevity/*genetics ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Mutation ; Nuclear Family ; *Paternal Age ; Reproduction/genetics/physiology ; Sex Factors ; X Chromosome/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Since paternal age at reproduction is considered to be the main factor determining human spontaneous mutation rate (Crow, J. (1993) Environ. Mol. Mutagenesis, 21, 122-129), the effect of paternal age on human longevity was studied on 8,518 adult persons (at age 30 and above) from European aristocratic families with well-known genealogy. The daughters born to old fathers (50-59 years) lose about 4.4 years of their life compared to daughters of young fathers (20-29 years) and these losses are highly statistically significant, while sons are not significantly affected. Since only daughters inherit the paternal X chromosome, this sex-specific decrease in daughters' longevity might indicate that human longevity genes (crucial, house-keeping genes) sensitive to mutational load might be located in this chromosome.}, }
@article {pmid9261938, year = {1997}, author = {Bingham, J and Schumacher, CL and Aubert, MF and Hill, FW and Aubert, A}, title = {Innocuity studies of SAG-2 oral rabies vaccine in various Zimbabwean wild non-target species.}, journal = {Vaccine}, volume = {15}, number = {9}, pages = {937-943}, doi = {10.1016/s0264-410x(97)00009-1}, pmid = {9261938}, issn = {0264-410X}, mesh = {Administration, Oral ; Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Antibodies, Viral/blood/immunology ; Birds ; Carnivora ; Dogs ; Gerbillinae ; Herpestidae ; Mice ; Papio ; Rabies/immunology/veterinary ; Rabies Vaccines/*administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects ; Rabies virus/immunology ; Saliva/virology ; Vaccines, Synthetic/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects ; }, abstract = {The SAG-2 modified live rabies vaccine was tested for innocuity when administered by the oral route in several potential wild non-target bait-consuming species, as follows: ten chacma baboons (Papio ursinus), six African civets (Civettictis civetta), six slender mongooses (Galerella sanguinea), six honey badgers (Mellivora capensis), six large-spotted genets (Genetta tigrina), 39 multi-mammate mice (Mastomys natalensis), 26 bushveld gerbils (Tatera leucogaster) and six pied crows (Corvus albus). At least 9.0 log10 median tissue culture infectious doses (TCID50), given in a volume of 1 ml, was administered orally to each of the animals, except the rodents which received 8.0 log10 TCID50, given in 0.1 ml. All the animals were observed for not < 90 days for signs of vaccine-induced rabies. Most of the species were also tested for vaccine virus replication in the oral cavity and persistent virus infection in the brain, salivary gland and tonsil. None of the animals died of rabies and no persistent infection was found. Rabies virus which was pathologically and serotypically indistinguishable from the vaccinal strain was isolated from the saliva of one genet 1 day after vaccine administration. From this study it was concluded that SAG-2 rabies vaccine would be safe for use in most situations where oral vaccination campaigns for jackals are required in Zimbabwe.}, }
@article {pmid9244621, year = {1997}, author = {Fernández-Torre, JL and Orizaola, P and Figols, J and Rebollo, M}, title = {[Osterosclerotic myeloma and polyneuropathy].}, journal = {Revista de neurologia}, volume = {25}, number = {142}, pages = {883-886}, pmid = {9244621}, issn = {0210-0010}, mesh = {Aged ; Antibodies, Monoclonal ; Demyelinating Diseases ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay ; Evoked Potentials, Somatosensory ; Female ; Humans ; Interleukin-6/blood ; Multiple Myeloma/complications/*pathology ; Osteosclerosis/complications/*pathology ; POEMS Syndrome/complications/*diagnosis ; Peripheral Nervous System Neoplasms/complications/*pathology ; Spine/*pathology ; Sural Nerve/*pathology ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The peripheral neuropathy is a common complication in patients with osteosclerotic myeloma. The association with hepatosplenomegaly, lymphadenopathy and variable endocrine disturbances and skin changes constitute the POEMS syndrome. The pathogenesis of this syndrome is unclear, but the presence of M protein and elevated levels of interleukin-6 in the serum of patients, suggests an immunologic mechanism.<br><br>CASE: A 68 year old woman presented with a 2 year history of progressive weakness and paresthesias in both legs. Neurological examination revealed a sensorimotor polyneuropathy, involving predominantly the lower extremities. In addition to neurological findings, the patient had lymphadenopathy and skin hyperpigmentation. Serum protein immunoelectrophoresis revealed a peak of monoclonal IgA lambda paraprotein. Radiographic examination disclosed multiple osteosclerotic lesions. Electrophysiological evaluation showed a severe axonal and demyelinating sensorimotor polyneuropathy. Biopsy of sural nerve revealed demyelination and axonal degeneration. Axillary lymph node biopsy were consistent with giant lymph node hyperplasia. Interleukin-6 serum levels were normal.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The POEMS syndrome or Crow-Fusake syndrome is a rare multisystem disorder often associated with osteosclerotic myeloma. A severe demyelinating sensorimotor polyneuropathy frequently constitutes the chief complaint. These patients have a polyneu-ropathy which resembles idiopathic chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) and the electrophysi-ological studies are essential in the diagnosis. The pathogenesis has not been explained. Presumably, the plasma cells secrete an immunoglobulin or another substance that is toxic to peripheral nerves. Interleukin-6 is implicated in the pathogenesis of this disease.}, }
@article {pmid9212721, year = {1997}, author = {Prabhakaran, V and Smith, JA and Desmond, JE and Glover, GH and Gabrieli, JD}, title = {Neural substrates of fluid reasoning: an fMRI study of neocortical activation during performance of the Raven's Progressive Matrices Test.}, journal = {Cognitive psychology}, volume = {33}, number = {1}, pages = {43-63}, doi = {10.1006/cogp.1997.0659}, pmid = {9212721}, issn = {0010-0285}, support = {AG12995/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Brain/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; *Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; }, abstract = {We examined brain activation, as measured by functional magnetic resonance imaging, during problem solving in seven young, healthy participants. Participants solved problems selected from the Raven's Progressive Matrices Test, a test known to predict performance on a wide range of reasoning tasks. In three conditions, participants solved problems requiring (1) analytic reasoning; (2) figural or visuospatial reasoning; or (3) simple pattern matching that served as a perceptual-motor control. Right frontal and bilateral parietal regions were activated more by figural than control problems. Bilateral frontal and left parietal, occipital, and temporal regions were activated more by analytic than figural problems. All of these regions were activated more by analytic than match problems. Many of these activations occurred in regions associated with working memory. Figural reasoning activated areas involved in spatial and object working memory. Analytic reasoning activated additional areas involved in verbal working memory and domain-independent associative and executive processes. These results suggest that fluid reasoning is mediated by a composite of working memory systems.}, }
@article {pmid9170282, year = {1997}, author = {Hanson, MT and Coss, RG}, title = {Age differences in the response of California ground Squirrels (Spermophilus beecheyi) to avian and mammalian predators.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {111}, number = {2}, pages = {174-184}, doi = {10.1037/0735-7036.111.2.174}, pmid = {9170282}, issn = {0735-7036}, mesh = {Aging/*psychology ; Animals ; Arousal ; Birds ; Discrimination Learning ; Dogs ; *Escape Reaction ; *Fear ; Female ; Male ; *Predatory Behavior ; Problem Solving ; Sciuridae/*psychology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The antipredator behavior of juvenile and adult California ground squirrels (Spermophilus beecheyi) was videotaped in Experiment 1 to measure the effects of age on assessment of a briefly presented live dog and a model red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) in simulated flight. Adult squirrels treated the hawk as more dangerous than the dog, whereas juvenile squirrels showed less differentiation of the predator types. Juvenile squirrels also perceived the dog as a more immediate danger than adult squirrels did. For Experiment 2, the red-tailed hawk model was compared with models of a nonthreatening turkey vulture (Cathartes aura) and crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos). Neither age class differentiated the avian models; however, the adult squirrels treated these birds as more threatening than the juvenile squirrels did. Both studies suggest that learning may contribute to predator assessment.}, }
@article {pmid9385085, year = {1997}, author = {Agmo, A}, title = {Male rat sexual behavior.}, journal = {Brain research. Brain research protocols}, volume = {1}, number = {2}, pages = {203-209}, doi = {10.1016/s1385-299x(96)00036-0}, pmid = {9385085}, issn = {1385-299X}, mesh = {Animals ; Copulation/physiology ; Ejaculation/physiology ; Female ; Male ; Neurosciences/*methods ; Rats ; Rats, Inbred Strains ; Reaction Time ; *Sex Characteristics ; Sexual Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The male rat's sexual behavior constitutes a highly ordered sequence of motor acts involving both striate and smooth muscles. It is spontaneously displayed by most adult made rats in the presence of a sexually receptive female. Although the behavior is important for the survival of the species it is not necessary for survival of the individual. In that way it is different from other spontaneous behaviors such as eating, drinking, avoidance of pain, respiration or thermoregulation. Among other things, this means that it is difficult to talk about sexual deprivation or need. Nevertheless, studies of male sex behavior distinguish sexual motivation (the ease by which behavior is activated, "libido") from the execution of copulatory acts (performance, "potency") (Meisel, R.L. and Sachs, B.D., The physiology of male sexual behavior. In: E. Knobil and J.D. Neill (Eds.), The Physiology of Reproduction, 2nd Edn., Vol. 2, Raven Press, New York, 1994, pp. 3-105 [13]). The hormonal control of male sexual behavior has been extensively studied. It is clear that steroid hormones, androgens and estrogens, act within the central nervous system, modifying neuronal excitability. The exact mechanism by which these hormones activate sex behavior remains largely unknown. However, there exists a considerable amount of knowledge concerning the brain structures important for sexual motivation and for the execution of sex behavior. The modulatory role of some non-steroid hormones is partly known, as well as the consequences of manipulations of several neurotransmitter systems.}, }
@article {pmid9172407, year = {1997}, author = {Bouttefroy, A and Lemaître, JP and Rousset, A}, title = {Prevalence of Listeria sp. in droppings from urban rooks (Corvus frugilegus).}, journal = {Journal of applied microbiology}, volume = {82}, number = {5}, pages = {641-647}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2672.1997.tb02874.x}, pmid = {9172407}, issn = {1364-5072}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*microbiology ; Birds/*microbiology ; Feces/microbiology ; Listeriosis/epidemiology/microbiology/*veterinary ; Prevalence ; Serotyping ; }, abstract = {Droppings from 112 urban rooks (Corvus frugilegus) were cultured for the presence of Listeria sp. Overall, 46% of rooks sampled harboured one or more Listeria species. Of all birds examined, 33%, 24% and 8%, respectively, were infected with Listeria monocytogenes, Listeria innocua and Listeria seeligeri. Differentiation of L. monocytogenes and L. seeligeri carried out by several phenotypic typing methods proved the diversity of strains and the major role of rooks which widely contribute to spreading this bacteria in our environment. The results also suggest that the ability to recover specific Listeria strains from the same sample is at least partially dependent on the methodology. These findings reinforce the need for strain-specific typing of multiple L. monocytogenes isolates from the same sample.}, }
@article {pmid9161019, year = {1997}, author = {Li, SH and Huang, YJ and Brown, JL}, title = {Isolation of tetranucleotide microsatellites from the Mexican jay Aphelocoma ultramarina.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {6}, number = {5}, pages = {499-501}, doi = {10.1046/j.1365-294x.1997.00215.x}, pmid = {9161019}, issn = {0962-1083}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; Birds/*genetics ; DNA Primers/genetics ; Ecosystem ; Female ; Male ; *Microsatellite Repeats ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Polymorphism, Genetic ; Species Specificity ; }, }
@article {pmid9126399, year = {1997}, author = {Del Ser, T and González-Montalvo, JI and Martínez-Espinosa, S and Delgado-Villapalos, C and Bermejo, F}, title = {Estimation of premorbid intelligence in Spanish people with the Word Accentuation Test and its application to the diagnosis of dementia.}, journal = {Brain and cognition}, volume = {33}, number = {3}, pages = {343-356}, doi = {10.1006/brcg.1997.0877}, pmid = {9126399}, issn = {0278-2626}, mesh = {Aged ; Dementia/*diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Observer Variation ; Spain ; }, abstract = {The Word Accentuation Test assesses the accentuation of 30 infrequent Spanish words written without the accentuation mark and is an easy-to-use tool for estimating premorbid intelligence of Spanish-speaking people. Its intraobserver (0.97) and interobserver (0.93) reliabilities and its correlation with the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (.837) and Raven's Progressive Matrices (.655) are high, offering a good prediction of general intelligence. It is resistant to mental deterioration; 20 demented and 40 controls matched by sex, age, and education obtained similar scores. The discrepancies between current and predicted scores in Raven's scale can diagnose mild-moderate dementia with 0.79 accuracy (sensitivity, 0.78; specificity, 0.82).}, }
@article {pmid9121507, year = {1997}, author = {Saida, K and Kawakami, H and Ohta, M and Iwamura, K}, title = {Coagulation and vascular abnormalities in Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {Muscle &amp; nerve}, volume = {20}, number = {4}, pages = {486-492}, doi = {10.1002/(sici)1097-4598(199704)20:4&lt;486::aid-mus12&gt;3.0.co;2-x}, pmid = {9121507}, issn = {0148-639X}, mesh = {Antifibrinolytic Agents/analysis ; Antithrombin III/analysis ; Axons/pathology ; Biopsy ; Blood Coagulation Factors/*analysis ; Capillaries/pathology ; Endothelium, Vascular/pathology ; Female ; Fibrinogen/analysis ; Fibrinolysin/analysis ; Fibrinopeptide A/analysis ; HLA-DR Antigens/analysis ; Humans ; Interferon-alpha/therapeutic use ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Monocytes/pathology ; Nerve Degeneration ; Nerve Fibers/pathology ; Neutrophils/pathology ; POEMS Syndrome/*blood/*pathology/therapy ; Peptide Hydrolases/analysis ; Plasminogen/analysis ; Prednisolone/therapeutic use ; Schwann Cells/pathology ; Sural Nerve/blood supply/*pathology ; *alpha-2-Antiplasmin ; }, abstract = {Coagulation and vascular abnormalities were studied in 4 patients with Crow-Fukase syndrome (CFS or POEMS) to understand the pathophysiology. Fibrinogen, fibrinopeptide A, and thrombin-antithrombin complexes (TAT) increased in sera during active phase of CFS. In nerves of 2 untreated cases, the endothelium of small vessels was immunohistochemically stained with antithrombin III antibody, which indicates the existence of TAT. HLA-DR+ inflammatory cell infiltrate surrounded these vessels. Blood-nerve barrier opening was suggested by strong immunoglobulin staining in the endoneurium. More than 50% of endoneurial blood vessels had narrowed or closed lumina with thick basement membranes. Endothelial cell abnormality and chronic intravascular coagulation may play an important role in the pathogenesis of CFS, in addition to a still unknown demyelinating factor. Refractory cases responded to combined treatment of prednisolone, human leukocyte interferon, and antithrombin drug.}, }
@article {pmid9109785, year = {1997}, author = {Blitzer, A and Binder, WJ and Aviv, JE and Keen, MS and Brin, MF}, title = {The management of hyperfunctional facial lines with botulinum toxin. A collaborative study of 210 injection sites in 162 patients.}, journal = {Archives of otolaryngology--head &amp; neck surgery}, volume = {123}, number = {4}, pages = {389-392}, doi = {10.1001/archoto.123.4.389}, pmid = {9109785}, issn = {0886-4470}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Anti-Dyskinesia Agents/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Botulinum Toxins/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Electromyography ; Facial Muscles/*drug effects ; Female ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Rejuvenation ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine the optimum dose and efficacy of botulinum toxin injections in the management of hyperfunctional facial lines.<br><br>DESIGN: This study included 210 hyperfunctional facial sites in 162 different patients. The patients had preinjection and postinjection photographic documentation and ratings on a 4-point qualitative evaluation scale of lines at rest and with action. The patients then had botulinum toxin type A injections via a monopolar hollow bore, Teflon-coated electromyographic needle into the facial muscles associated with the hyperfunctional lines. The total dose for each region of 1.25 to 25 U was divided into 1.25- to 5-U aliquots representing 0.1 to 0.2 mL per injection site, depending on the site and the prior experience with that patient on using toxin. The patients had their reevaluation at 2 to 3 weeks after injection. Patients returned for further follow-up when the therapeutic effect diminished.<br><br>PATIENTS: One hundred sixty-two patients had 210 hyperfunctional sites evaluated and injected. The group consisted of 25 male patients and 137 female patients ranging in age from 21 to 78 years with a mean (+/-SD) of 46.1 (+/-1.98) years. All patients had cosmetically troubling hyperfunctional lines involving the forehead, glabella, crow's feet (lateral canthal lines), nasolabial area, platysma, and mentalis region.<br><br>RESULTS: All patients had an effect of toxin within the first 24 to 72 hours. Ninety-five percent of the patients treated had cosmetic improvement of unsightly facial lines or contractions. The best results were achieved in management of the forehead lines, followed by glabella, crow's feet, and nasolabial. The dose for forehead lines was 5 to 25 U (mean +/- SD, 17.3 +/- 6.2 U); glabellar lines, 5 to 20 U (mean +/- SD, 11.1 +/- 3.1 U); crow's feet, 5 to 15 U (mean +/- SD, 6.2 +/- 1.6 U); nasolabial, 2.5 to 5 U (mean +/- SD, 3.12 +/- 1.2 U); and platysma, 10 to 20 (mean +/- SD, 15 +/- 4.0 U). Evaluation by age and site suggested a trend of increased toxin dose with increased age. Effects of the toxin are usually seen 24 to 72 hours after injection, and last from 3 to 6 months, whereon the increased muscular activity returns, as do the hyperfunctional lines. The only morbidity was related to temporary mild weakness of other adjacent facial muscles. There were no systemic side effects noted.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Botulinum toxin is a safe and important adjunctive technique for the management of patients with symptomatic hyperfunctional facial lines.}, }
@article {pmid9106083, year = {1997}, author = {Ellis, DA and Tan, AK}, title = {Cosmetic upper-facial rejuvenation with botulinum.}, journal = {The Journal of otolaryngology}, volume = {26}, number = {2}, pages = {92-96}, pmid = {9106083}, issn = {0381-6605}, mesh = {Botulinum Toxins, Type A/*therapeutic use ; Contraindications ; Drug Monitoring ; Facial Expression ; Humans ; Neuromuscular Agents/*therapeutic use ; Prospective Studies ; Rhytidoplasty/adverse effects/*methods ; Skin Aging/*drug effects/pathology ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to evaluate the cosmetic use of botulinum toxin type A (Botox), which blocks the release of acetylcholine at the presynaptic neuromuscular junction leading to an irreversible, but temporary chemical denervation muscular paralysis and weakness. This produces a significant cosmetic improvement of wrinkling in the upper face due to hyperfunctional animation.<br><br>METHOD: A prospective clinical study representing our experience with this new technique is presented. Patient selection and evaluation, classification of animation lines, techniques, results and complications are discussed. In a 15-month period, 23 patients with seven anatomic sites were injected. Twenty-three patients had the lateral aspect and the inferior aspect of their squint lines injected, and 26 patients had their glabellar frownlines injected.<br><br>RESULTS: Significant improvement occurred to the average depth and length of the glabellar frownlines. The subjective improvement by the patients was also significant. Regarding the crow's feet, the lateral canthal lines showed more improvement than the inferior lateral canthal lines because the latter has a greater component of zygomaticus major and minor muscle, which contributes to the inferior lateral squint line.<br><br>CONCLUSION: Botox is a safe, easy-to-use, effective modality for the temporary elimination of hyperfunctioning upper-facial muscles.}, }
@article {pmid9132054, year = {1997}, author = {Ferullo, JM and Vézina, LP and Rail, J and Laberge, S and Nadeau, P and Castonguay, Y}, title = {Differential accumulation of two glycine-rich proteins during cold-acclimation alfalfa.}, journal = {Plant molecular biology}, volume = {33}, number = {4}, pages = {625-633}, pmid = {9132054}, issn = {0167-4412}, mesh = {Acclimatization/*physiology ; *Cold Temperature ; Freezing ; *Glycine ; Medicago sativa/*physiology ; Plant Proteins/*biosynthesis/genetics/immunology ; Plant Shoots/metabolism ; RNA, Messenger/isolation &amp; purification ; RNA, Plant/isolation &amp; purification ; Recombinant Fusion Proteins/biosynthesis ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Two mRNAs, MsaCiA and MsaCiB, encoding for proteins harboring glycine-rich motifs, accumulate in alfalfa during cold acclimation. Fusion polypeptides containing the amino acid sequences deduced from these mRNAs were produced in Escherichia coli and used to raise antibodies. Each antibody cross-reacted specifically with soluble polypeptides, MSACIA-32 and MSACIB, respectively. These polypeptides were detectable only in crowns of cold-acclimated plants, even though MsaCiA mRNA accumulated in both crows and leaves during cold acclimation. The analysis of parietal proteins showed that several MSACIA-related proteins, with a molecular mass of 32, 41 and 68 kDa, did accumulate in leaf cell walls and one of 59 kDa crown cell walls. This diversity is most probably due to a tissue-specific maturation of MSACIA. A discrepancy was found between the time-course of accumulation of MSACIB and the one of the corresponding transcript. These results indicate that timing and localization of MSACIA and MSACIB expression are different, and suggest that this differential expression involves both transcriptional and post-transcriptional events. Comparisons made among six cultivars of contrasting freezing tolerance suggest that low tolerance could be explained by failure to accumulate proteins like MSACIA and MSACIB at a sufficient level.}, }
@article {pmid9075020, year = {1997}, author = {García-Sánchez, C and Estévez-González, A and Suárez-Romero, E and Junqué, C}, title = {Right hemisphere dysfunction in subjects with attention-deficit disorder with and without hyperactivity.}, journal = {Journal of child neurology}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {107-115}, doi = {10.1177/088307389701200207}, pmid = {9075020}, issn = {0883-0738}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*physiopathology ; Brain/*physiopathology ; Discriminant Analysis ; Female ; Functional Laterality ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Sex Factors ; Spain ; }, abstract = {The attention-deficit disorder, with and without hyperactivity, is associated with defective attention, response inhibition and, in attention-deficit disorder with hyperactivity, with motor restlessness. In adults, inattention, defective response inhibition, and impersistence are more commonly seen in right hemisphere lesions. In the present study, we investigate possible right hemisphere dysfunctions in attention-deficit disorder with hyperactivity and attention-deficit disorder without hyperactivity. The right hemisphere performance of 60 teenagers, 16 having attention-deficit disorder with hyperactivity, 9 having attention-deficit disorder without hyperactivity, and 35 controls, selected clinically (DSM-III) and experimentally (through Continuous Performance Test and Paced Auditory Addition Task), with normal IQ was assessed using a wide-ranging battery of visuospatial, visuoperceptive, and visuoconstructive functions (Benton's Line Orientation, Benton's Visual Retention, Raven's Progressive Matrices, Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale [WAIS] Block-Design, Rey's Complex Figure). Teenagers with attention-deficit disorder with and without hyperactivity performed significantly worse than controls. Greater differences were found between subjects with attention-deficit disorder without hyperactivity and control than between subjects with attention-deficit disorder with hyperactivity and control subjects. Our results seem to be consistent with right-hemisphere dysfunction, especially in subjects with attention-deficit disorder without hyperactivity. Additionally, WAIS Block-Design and Benton's Line Orientation are the visuospatial tests with the highest discriminant power to differentiate between controls, subjects with attention-deficit disorder without hyperactivity, and subjects with attention-deficit disorder with hyperactivity.}, }
@article {pmid9058039, year = {1997}, author = {Lindley, GA and Palmer, CV and Goldstein, H and Pratt, S}, title = {Environmental awareness and level-dependent hearing protection devices.}, journal = {Ear and hearing}, volume = {18}, number = {1}, pages = {73-82}, doi = {10.1097/00003446-199702000-00007}, pmid = {9058039}, issn = {0196-0202}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Audiometry, Pure-Tone ; Auditory Perception ; *Awareness ; *Ear Protective Devices ; *Environment ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The effect of level-dependent hearing protection devices (HPDs) on subjects' ability to identify real-life environmental sounds was investigated.<br><br>DESIGN: Eighteen subjects with no hunting experience attempted to identify sounds (crow, duck, turkey, deer, owl, goose, and person) recorded at various distances in the presence of the SoundScope and Sonic II level-dependent HPDs as well as in an open ear condition. Knowles Electronic's Manikin for Auditory Research was employed in making the experimental recordings. The Sonic II accomplishes level-dependent attenuation via a passive mechanism, whereas the SoundScope employs active circuitry that attenuates loud sounds while providing a small amount of high frequency amplification for soft sounds. Both devices are commercially available and are advertised for hunters/shooters. Sound identification scores (SISs) were determined for each condition.<br><br>RESULTS: Mean SISs differed significantly among the three earplug conditions, collapsed over type of sound and distance, with the best SIS obtained under the open ear condition (96.43%) and the worst under the Sonic II condition (84.13%). Further analysis revealed that the listening conditions differed significantly only at the 100 yard distance.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Auditory awareness was not maintained by either device investigated during the 100 yard condition. However, auditory awareness was maintained by both devices at a distance of 75 yards or closer. These devices may be appropriate for use in certain hunting/shooting situations depending on several factors including type of game being hunted, environment, and shooting range of the weapon. Further support also is provided for the usage of level-dependent HPDs during recreational shooting activities (i.e., at a shooting range).}, }
@article {pmid9474319, year = {1997}, author = {King, AJ and Farnworth, D and Thompson, JR}, title = {Inter-observer and intra-observer agreement in the interpretation of visual fields in glaucoma.}, journal = {Eye (London, England)}, volume = {11 (Pt 5)}, number = {}, pages = {687-691}, doi = {10.1038/eye.1997.178}, pmid = {9474319}, issn = {0950-222X}, mesh = {Cohort Studies ; Disease Progression ; Glaucoma, Open-Angle/*physiopathology ; Humans ; Observer Variation ; *Visual Fields ; }, abstract = {Visual field changes are one of the main parameters used to monitor progression of glaucoma. This study assesses the degree of intra-observer and inter-observer agreement among nine observers in grading visual fields in glaucoma patients using a visual field system previously described by Jay. The results show a median inter-observer agreement of 61% (median kappa = 0.52) and a median intra-observer agreement of 72% (median kappa = 0.65). This system for grading fields in glaucoma has a high degree of intra-observer agreement, suggesting it is a useful system for longitudinal follow-up of patients by a single observer. The higher degree of disagreement between observers points to the need for careful pretraining of observers in clinical management and research where the results from visual field examinations are to be graded by more than one clinician.}, }
@article {pmid9386912, year = {1997}, author = {Sherry, DF}, title = {Cross-species comparisons.}, journal = {Ciba Foundation symposium}, volume = {208}, number = {}, pages = {181-9; discussion 189-94}, doi = {10.1002/9780470515372.ch10}, pmid = {9386912}, issn = {0300-5208}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Psychological ; Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Birds ; *Choice Behavior ; Food ; Hippocampus ; Humans ; }, abstract = {Cognitive and neural adaptations in animals have been analysed using the comparative method. Comparisons between closely related species that differ in a cognitive or neural character, and comparison between distantly related species that share a cognitive or neural character, can be used to identify adaptations. Recent research has identified adaptive modifications of memory and the hippocampus that have evolved convergently in two clades of food-storing birds, the chickadees and tits (Paridae), and the jays and nutcrackers (Corvidae). Similar modifications of the hippocampus occur in other groups of animals, such as the cowbird brood parasites, in which there has been selection for spatial memory. Three general patterns that emerge from the comparative study of animal cognition provide a framework for research on human psychological adaptations: the existence of both specialized and general cognitive capacities; a clear relation between specialized capacities and specific selective pressures; and evolutionary change in the relative size of brain areas with cognitive functions.}, }
@article {pmid9319310, year = {1997}, author = {Boggs, D and Seveyka, J and Kilgore, D and Dial, K}, title = {Coordination of respiratory cycles with wingbeat cycles in the black-billed magpie (Pica pica).}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {200}, number = {Pt 9}, pages = {1413-1420}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.200.9.1413}, pmid = {9319310}, issn = {1477-9145}, abstract = {Magpies fly with a variable pattern of wingstroke, including high-amplitude rapid flaps and low-amplitude slower flaps with interspersed brief glides. This allowed us to test the hypothesis that if phasic coordination between respiratory and wingbeat cycles is important mechanically and energetically, then, as a bird changes its wingbeat cycle, its respiratory cycle should change with it. We also tested the strength of the drive to coordinate respiratory to locomotor cycles by stimulating breathing with 5 % CO2 during flight. We found that magpies (N=5) do shorten their breath cycle time when they shorten their wingbeat cycle time and prolong their breath cycle time when they glide. When the coordination ratio of wingbeat cycles to breaths is 3:1, the pattern of phasic coordination ensures two upstrokes per inspiration and two downstrokes per expiration. Upstroke tends to coincide with the transition into inspiration or with early inspiration and late inspiration. Downstroke tends to coincide with the transition into expiration or with early expiration and late expiration. When magpies switch from a 3:1 ratio to a 2:1 ratio of wingbeat cycles to breaths, they shorten inspiratory time to ensure that upstroke occurs through most of inspiration and downstroke corresponds to the transition into expiration. These phasic coordination patterns ensure that the compression of the airsacs during downstroke can provide a net assistance to expiration and that the expansion of the airsacs with upstroke can provide a net assistance to inspiration. The failure of an atmosphere containing 5 % CO2 to disrupt these phasic coordination patterns between respiratory and locomotory cycles suggests that there may be a potent mechanical and energetic benefit to such coordination.}, }
@article {pmid9319297, year = {1997}, author = {Boggs, D and Jenkins, F and Dial, K}, title = {The effects of the wingbeat cycle on respiration in black-billed magpies (Pica pica).}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {200}, number = {Pt 9}, pages = {1403-1412}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.200.9.1403}, pmid = {9319297}, issn = {1477-9145}, abstract = {Interclavicular and posterior thoracic airsac pressures, tracheal airflows and pectoralis muscle activity were recorded simultaneously to determine the effect of the wingbeat cycle upon the function of the respiratory system. The effects of the wingbeat cycle on the relative positions of thoraco-abdominal skeletal structures were also assessed using high-speed X-ray cinematography of magpies Pica pica flying in a windtunnel. We found that the furcula bends laterally on the downstroke and recoils medially on the upstroke, as previously described for starlings, and that the coraco-sternal joint (the most consistently visible point on the sternum for digitization) is displaced dorsally during the downstroke and ventrally, with respect to the vertebral column, during the upstroke. In magpies, there are generally three wingbeat cycles during a respiratory cycle. When downstroke occurs during inspiration, its compressive effect reduces the inspiratory subatmospheric airsac pressure by an average of 92 % (0.35 kPa), whereas when upstroke occurs during expiration its expansive effect can reduce the expiratory supra-atmospheric airsac pressure by 63 % (0.23 kPa). Corresponding changes occur in tracheal airflow. Changes in respiratory parameters during short flights with respect to resting values include a doubling of tidal volume and a tripling of respiratory frequency. We conclude that the wingbeat cycle can have a substantial impact on respiratory system function in the flying magpie, and that this represents a mechanical basis for breathing patterns and patterns of phasic coordination between wingbeat and respiratory cycles that may result in minimal interference and maximal assistance from the wingbeat upon the respiratory cycle.}, }
@article {pmid9277920, year = {1997}, author = {Imai, H}, title = {[POEMS syndrome (Crow-Fukase syndrome)].}, journal = {Ryoikibetsu shokogun shirizu}, volume = {}, number = {17 Pt 2}, pages = {292-294}, pmid = {9277920}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Kidney/pathology ; *POEMS Syndrome/pathology ; }, }
@article {pmid9245006, year = {1997}, author = {Mal'chikova, LP and Vissarionov, VA and Sakovich, VP and Gerasimova, LD and Tret'iakov, EA and Sablin, IV}, title = {[The surgical correction of traumatic deformities of the orbit in naso-fronto-orbito-cribriform fractures].}, journal = {Stomatologiia}, volume = {76}, number = {3}, pages = {38-40}, pmid = {9245006}, issn = {0039-1735}, mesh = {Accidents, Traffic ; Esthetics ; Ethmoid Bone/*injuries/*surgery ; Female ; Frontal Bone/*injuries/*surgery ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Multiple Trauma/*surgery ; Nasal Bone/*injuries/*surgery ; Orbit/*surgery ; Orbital Fractures/*surgery ; Skull Fractures/*surgery ; }, abstract = {J. Raven's (1992) classification was used in the treatment of patients with multiple fractures of the face associated with contusions, brain concussions, and injuries to the skull vault and base. According to this classification, all injuries of the cerebral and facial skull are classified as types I, II, and subtype Ia. Use of this classification became possible due to introduction of computer-aided tomography. A clinical example of a possible surgical correction of the orbit in a patient with type II fracture is presented.}, }
@article {pmid9231378, year = {1997}, author = {Schoech, SJ and Mumme, RL and Wingfield, JC}, title = {Corticosterone, reproductive status, and body mass in a cooperative breeder, the Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens).}, journal = {Physiological zoology}, volume = {70}, number = {1}, pages = {68-73}, doi = {10.1086/639545}, pmid = {9231378}, issn = {0031-935X}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/blood/physiopathology ; Birds/*blood/*physiology ; *Body Mass Index ; Breeding ; Corticosterone/*blood ; Female ; Florida ; Handling, Psychological ; Linear Models ; Male ; Radioimmunoassay ; Reproduction/*physiology ; Stress, Physiological/blood/physiopathology/veterinary ; }, abstract = {In the cooperatively breeding Florida scrub-jay, nonbreeders are subordinate to the breeders with which they share a territory. Corticosterone is secreted in response to a wide range of stressors, including social stress, and suppresses reproductive and territorial behaviors in several taxa; thus, elevated baseline levels of corticosterone might be a causal mechanism of reproductive suppression. To test the hypothesis that nonbreeder Florida scrub-jays are reproductively suppressed through the actions of corticosterone, we compared corticosterone levels of nonbreeders and breeders and found no differences. However, baseline corticosterone levels only provide information about a bird's current hormonal status. Virtually all species exhibit a rapid rise in glucocorticoids in response to an acute stressor. If the adrenocortical response of nonbreeders is greater than that of breeders, this might be a mechanism whereby nonbreeders remain reproductively quiescent. We compared the responses of breeders and nonbreeders to the acute stress of being captured and held for 1 h. Both exhibited significant but equivalent increases in corticosterone titers. Because in some species heavier or fatter individuals have reduced glucocorticoid responses to stressors, we examined whether body mass was correlated with corticosterone titers. Both baseline and maximum corticosterone levels covaried with body mass, and the effect of body mass on corticosterone levels explained the increase due to capture and handling. Our data do not support the hypothesis that Florida scrub-jay nonbreeders are reproductively suppressed through the actions of corticosterone.}, }
@article {pmid9055268, year = {1997}, author = {Cronin-Golomb, A and Braun, AE}, title = {Visuospatial dysfunction and problem solving in Parkinson's disease.}, journal = {Neuropsychology}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {44-52}, doi = {10.1037//0894-4105.11.1.44}, pmid = {9055268}, issn = {0894-4105}, mesh = {Aged ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/*psychology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) perform deficiently on Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM), in contrast to their relatively good performance on many other problem-solving tasks. The question is raised as to whether a visuospatial deficit may account for poor RCPM performance in PD. The authors analyzed RCPM results in 50 nondemented participants with PD and 39 age-matched healthy control participants. The PD group made significantly more errors than the control group on all RCPM subtests, including the subtest that mainly assessed visuospatial function (RCPM-A). For the PD group, the composite score of other visuospatial tests, but not the composite scores of tests of executive function or verbal memory, significantly predicted performance on the RCPM-A. Visuospatial impairment in PD may arise from dysfunction of the basal ganglia-thalamocortical circuit that also includes the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and, importantly, the posterior parietal lobes.}, }
@article {pmid9021249, year = {1997}, author = {Takazoe, K and Shimada, T and Kawamura, T and Kitajima, T and Joh, K and Kimura, Y and Sakai, O}, title = {Possible mechanism of progressive renal failure in Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {Clinical nephrology}, volume = {47}, number = {1}, pages = {66-67}, pmid = {9021249}, issn = {0301-0430}, mesh = {Adult ; Chronic Disease ; Disease Progression ; Fatal Outcome ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications/pathology ; Renal Insufficiency/*etiology/pathology ; }, }
@article {pmid10736606, year = {1996}, author = {Huff, J}, title = {Response: alpha-2-mu-Globulin Nephropathy, Posed Mechanisms, and White Ravens.}, journal = {Environmental health perspectives}, volume = {104}, number = {12}, pages = {1264-1267}, pmid = {10736606}, issn = {1552-9924}, }
@article {pmid9118861, year = {1996}, author = {Ashby, J}, title = {Alpha 2 mu-globulin nephropathy in white ravens.}, journal = {Environmental health perspectives}, volume = {104}, number = {12}, pages = {1264-1267}, pmid = {9118861}, issn = {0091-6765}, mesh = {Alpha-Globulins/*toxicity ; Animals ; Carcinogens/*toxicity ; Humans ; Kidney Neoplasms/*chemically induced ; Rats ; Science/methods ; }, }
@article {pmid8941281, year = {1996}, author = {Saida, K and Ohta, M and Kawakami, H and Saida, T}, title = {Cytokines and myelin antibodies in Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {Muscle &amp; nerve}, volume = {19}, number = {12}, pages = {1620-1622}, doi = {10.1002/(SICI)1097-4598(199612)19:12&lt;1620::AID-MUS16&gt;3.0.CO;2-V}, pmid = {8941281}, issn = {0148-639X}, mesh = {Antibodies/*analysis ; Arthritis, Rheumatoid/immunology/metabolism ; Cytokines/*metabolism ; Humans ; Immunoglobulin G/analysis ; Immunoglobulin M/analysis ; Interleukin-6/metabolism ; Myelin Sheath/*immunology ; POEMS Syndrome/*immunology/*metabolism ; Scleroderma, Systemic/immunology/metabolism ; }, }
@article {pmid9375357, year = {1996}, author = {MacKay, ME and Raelson, J and Lazier, CB}, title = {Up-regulation of estrogen receptor mRNA and estrogen receptor activity by estradiol in liver of rainbow trout and other teleostean fish.}, journal = {Comparative biochemistry and physiology. Part C, Pharmacology, toxicology &amp; endocrinology}, volume = {115}, number = {3}, pages = {201-209}, doi = {10.1016/s0742-8413(96)00093-x}, pmid = {9375357}, issn = {1367-8280}, mesh = {Animals ; Binding, Competitive ; Blotting, Northern ; Estradiol/pharmacology/*physiology ; Female ; Fishes/metabolism ; Liver/drug effects/*metabolism ; Male ; Oncorhynchus mykiss/*metabolism ; Protein Biosynthesis ; Protein Processing, Post-Translational ; RNA, Messenger/genetics/*metabolism ; Receptors, Estrogen/genetics/*metabolism ; Species Specificity ; Transcription, Genetic ; Up-Regulation ; Vitellogenins/biosynthesis/genetics/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Injection of estradiol (E2) into immature rainbow trout resulted in the induction of the hepatic vitellogenin gene mediated by the nuclear estrogen receptor (ER). Liver ER mRNA rose markedly on E2 treatment in three groups of trout kept at different temperatures. Only in the group kept at 4 degrees C did the total cellular ER, as measured by [3H]estradiol-binding activity in nuclear and cytosol fractions, parallel the ER mRNA level. In fish kept at 9 degrees C and 15 degrees C, the ratio of total ER activity to ER mRNA fell during chronic E2 treatment, probably reflecting translational of post-translational control mechanisms. Upregulation of ER mRNA also occurred in sea raven, sculpin, winter flounder, and Atlantic salmon after E2 treatment. Intrahepatic ER activity rose proportionately in Atlantic salmon kept at 6-9 degrees C but not in sea raven, sculpin, or flounder. We conclude that the regulation of ER expression in teleosts is complex and includes transcriptional, translational, and post-translational elements and is influenced by environmental temperature.}, }
@article {pmid9014291, year = {1996}, author = {Masson, E and Cliquet, F and Aubert, M and Barrat, J and Aubert, A and Artois, M and Schumacher, CL}, title = {Safety study of the SAG2 rabies virus mutant in several non-target species with a view to its future use for the immunization of foxes in Europe.}, journal = {Vaccine}, volume = {14}, number = {16}, pages = {1506-1510}, doi = {10.1016/s0264-410x(96)00114-4}, pmid = {9014291}, issn = {0264-410X}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Birds ; Ferrets ; Foxes/*immunology ; Goats ; Hedgehogs ; Mice ; *Mutation ; Neutralization Tests ; Rabies/immunology/*prevention &amp; control/*veterinary ; Rabies Vaccines/*adverse effects/genetics/*immunology ; Rabies virus/*genetics/immunology/isolation &amp; purification ; Rats ; Swine ; Vaccines, Attenuated/adverse effects/genetics/immunology ; }, abstract = {The safety of the SAG2 virus, a low virulence mutant of the SAD strain, was investigated in ten species of mammals and seven species of birds liable to consume vaccine baits. These species are the western hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus), the meadow vole (Microtus arvalis), the bank vole (Clethrionomys glareolus), the water vole (Arvicola terrestris), the field mouse (Apodemus flavicollis or A. sylvaticus), the Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus), the european badger (Meles meles), the domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo), the wild boar (Sus scrofa), the domestic goat (Capra hircus), the carrion crow (Corvus corone), the rook (Corvus frugilegus), the buzzard (Buteo buteo), the red kite (Milvus milvus), the tawny owl (Strix aluco), the long-eared owl (Asio otus) and the barn owl (Tyto alba). The vaccine was administered orally to each species, by an intramuscular (i.m.) route to the rodents and ferret, and by an intracerebral route to the field mouse. No pathogenicity was observed in the 169 animals vaccinated throughout an observation period of over 30 days. After euthanasia, no rabies virus could be detected either in the brain or in the salivary glands of any of the animals. The SAG2 virus administered orally, triggered a specific seroconversion in the field mouse, wild boar, ferret and most of the raptors. Following administration by the i.m. route, specific antibody titres were observed in most of the rodents, as well as in the ferrets.}, }
@article {pmid8929322, year = {1996}, author = {Ramirez, OM and Pozner, JN}, title = {Subperiosteal minimally invasive laser endoscopic rhytidectomy: the SMILE facelift.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {20}, number = {6}, pages = {463-470}, pmid = {8929322}, issn = {0364-216X}, mesh = {Adult ; *Endoscopy ; Face/*surgery ; Humans ; *Laser Therapy ; Middle Aged ; *Surgery, Plastic ; Surgical Flaps ; }, abstract = {Current concepts of total facial rejuvenation involve a comprehensive integrated approach to achieve a balanced youthful appearance. Recently introduced endoscopic-assisted techniques allow us to rejuvenate the face through small, remote incisions. Previously, we have considered only young patients with good skin turgor as candidates for minimally invasive procedures, but the advent of the resurfacing laser has allowed us to expand our indications for single stage minimal access rejuvenation. Full facial immediate laser resurfacing at the time of standard rhytidectomy has been avoided due to risk of flap necrosis. Subperiosteal minimally invasive endoscopic assisted techniques do not substantially interfere with facial blood supply. We can now perform endoscopic-assisted full facelifts combined with immediate laser resurfacing to reposition the tissues in a more youthful position and then tighten the skin envelope. Extended endoscopic-assisted subperiosteal forehead lift is performed through three to five scalp incisions; subperiosteal midface lift is performed through a crow's foot or intraoral incision. Cervicoplasty, if needed, is performed through a small submental incision. Full face laser resurfacing is done using a Coherent Ultrapulse laser. To date we have performed eleven subperiosteal minimally invasive laser endoscopic (SMILE) rhytidectomies. There has been no evidence of flap necrosis with this technique. Postoperative recovery has been no different from patients treated only by full face resurfacing, except perhaps for the slight increase in early facial edema. We believe the SMILE facelift is a viable alternative to standard techniques. The limitations of this procedure still need to be elucidated.}, }
@article {pmid8923544, year = {1996}, author = {Rusakov, DA and Stewart, MG and Korogod, SM}, title = {Branching of active dendritic spines as a mechanism for controlling synaptic efficacy.}, journal = {Neuroscience}, volume = {75}, number = {1}, pages = {315-323}, doi = {10.1016/0306-4522(96)00253-9}, pmid = {8923544}, issn = {0306-4522}, mesh = {Calcium/metabolism ; *Computer Simulation ; Dendrites/physiology/*ultrastructure ; Learning/physiology ; Long-Term Potentiation/physiology ; *Models, Neurological ; Synapses/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Recent experimental findings (Yuste R. and Denk W. (1995) Nature 375, 682-684) suggest that dendritic spines possess excitable membranes. Theoretically, it was shown earlier that the shape of active spines can significantly affect somatopetal synaptic signal transfer. Studies of long-term potentiation in the hippocampus have related the increased synaptic efficacy to a number of structural modifications of spines, including an increased number of branched spines [Trommald M. et al. (1990) In Neurotoxicity of Excitatory Amino Acids, pp. 163-174. Raven Press, New York] and a strengthened capability for spines to alter their spatial positions [Hosokawa T. et al. (1995) J. Neurosci. 15, 5560-5573]. In the present simulation study, the potential physiological impact of several types of spine changes was examined in a compartmental neuron model built using the neuromodelling software NEURON [Hines M. (1993) In Neural Systems: Analysis and Modeling, pp. 127-136. Kluwer Academic, Norwell, MA]. The model included 30 complex spines, with dual component synaptic currents and mechanisms of Ca2+ uptake, diffusion, binding and extrusion within spine heads. The results show that local clustering properties of spine distributions along dendrites are unlikely to affect synaptic efficacy. However, partial fusion of active spines, which results in formation of spine branches, or subtle changes in spine branch positions, could alone significantly increase synaptic signal transfer. These data illustrate possible mechanisms whereby subtle morphological changes in dendritic spines (compatible with changes reported in the literature) may be linked to the cellular mechanisms of learning and memory.}, }
@article {pmid8909342, year = {1996}, author = {Dealberto, MJ and Pajot, N and Courbon, D and Alpérovitch, A}, title = {Breathing disorders during sleep and cognitive performance in an older community sample: the EVA Study.}, journal = {Journal of the American Geriatrics Society}, volume = {44}, number = {11}, pages = {1287-1294}, doi = {10.1111/j.1532-5415.1996.tb01397.x}, pmid = {8909342}, issn = {0002-8614}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Aged ; Body Mass Index ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology ; Cohort Studies ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; Logistic Models ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Odds Ratio ; Prevalence ; Psychomotor Performance ; Risk Factors ; Sleep Wake Disorders/*complications ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To determine whether poor cognitive performance was associated with symptoms related to the sleep apnea syndrome, snoring, and breathing stoppage during sleep.<br><br>DESIGN: Cross-sectional analysis of data collected at baseline in the EVA Study, a 4-year cohort study.<br><br>SETTING: The city of Nantes in western France.<br><br>SAMPLE: A total of 1389 persons, aged 60 to 70 years, recruited from the electoral rolls of the city of Nantes.<br><br>MEASUREMENTS: Demographic characteristics and data on drug use and tobacco and alcohol consumption were collected using a standardized questionnaire. Weight and height were measured. Individuals completed a previously validated sleep questionnaire about nocturnal sleep characteristics, snoring, breathing stoppage during sleep, and day-time sleepiness. Trained psychologists administered eight neuropsychological tests: The Mini-Mental State Examination, Trail Making Test, Digit Symbol Substitution Test of the WAIS-Revised, Benton Visual Retention Test, Paced Auditory Serial-Addition Task, Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Raven Progressive Matrices, and Word Fluency Test. Depressive symptomatology was assessed by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression scale.<br><br>MAIN RESULTS: In this older sample, 49.5% of subjects reported snoring, and 10.8% reported breathing stoppage during sleep. Both respiratory disorders were associated significantly with male gender and high body mass index. In men, prevalence of snoring was increased significantly in those with alcohol consumption greater than 40 mL per day. Breathing stoppage during sleep was associated with depressive symptoms in women. Logistic regression models adjusted for age, gender, educational level, tobacco status and alcohol consumption, depressive symptomatology, and number of medications found that both snoring and breathing stoppage were associated with low scores (< or = 10th percentile) in tests requiring visual attention skills, the Trail Making Test (OR = 2.14, 95% CI = 1.24-3.69 and OR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.04-3.39, respectively), and the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (OR = 1.80, 95% CI = 1.09-2.99 and OR = 1.58, 95% CI = .87-2.89, respectively). These relationships were significant only when either snoring or breathing stoppage was associated with daytime sleepiness.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This cross-sectional analysis suggested that in community-dwelling individuals 60 to 70 years of age, snoring and breathing stoppage during sleep associated with daytime sleepiness were risk factors for low cognitive performance in tests requiring visual attention skills.}, }
@article {pmid8936896, year = {1996}, author = {Bachanas, PJ and Blount, RL}, title = {The Behavioral Approach-Avoidance and Distress Scale: an investigation of reliability and validity during painful medical procedures.}, journal = {Journal of pediatric psychology}, volume = {21}, number = {5}, pages = {671-681}, doi = {10.1093/jpepsy/21.5.671}, pmid = {8936896}, issn = {0146-8693}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Psychological ; Adult ; *Avoidance Learning ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Defense Mechanisms ; Escape Reaction ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Pain/*psychology ; Pain Measurement/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Personality Assessment/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Sick Role ; Vaccination/*psychology ; }, abstract = {Validated the use of the Behavioral Approach-Avoidance and Distress Scale (BAADS; Hubert, Jay, Saltoun, &amp; Hayes, 1988), which was reported to be easily completed and scored in an analog situation, for measuring children's distress and coping style during actual painful medical procedures. 60 preschool children who were receiving immunizations at a health department were subjects. Objective measures (Observational Scale of Behavioral Distress and Child-Adult Medical Procedure Interaction Scale-Revised) and subjective measures (child-, parent-, and nurse-report) were used. Results of the current study support the internal consistency and concurrent validity of the Distress subscale of the BAADS; however, some caution is suggested in interpreting the Approach-Avoidance subscale. Discussion focuses on the utility of this scale in clinical settings and the cost-effectiveness of this measure for assessing pediatric patients.}, }
@article {pmid8922086, year = {1996}, author = {Araya, M and Espinoza, J and Zegers, B and Cruchet, S and Brunser, O and Humphreys, D and Fernandez, CL}, title = {Altered maternal psychological profile as health risk factor in poor urban infants.}, journal = {Acta paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)}, volume = {85}, number = {10}, pages = {1213-1216}, doi = {10.1111/j.1651-2227.1996.tb18231.x}, pmid = {8922086}, issn = {0803-5253}, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Chile ; Diarrhea, Infantile/*epidemiology ; Female ; Health Status Indicators ; Humans ; Infant ; Intelligence Tests ; *Maternal Behavior ; Mental Health ; *Poverty ; *Psychotic Disorders ; Regression Analysis ; Respiratory Tract Diseases/*epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; Rorschach Test ; Urban Population ; }, abstract = {To test the hypothesis that the increased health risk of children selected by a previously calculated and validated predictive model is associated with some maternal psychological characteristics, the universe of 107 mothers of children selected by this model was evaluated by means of Goldberg's General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-30), Raven (Ra) and Rorschach (Ro) tests; 37.4% were cases according to GHQ-30, 80.9% were < 50th percentile in Ra and 85% exhibited deviant responses in Ro tests. Children whose mother's IQ was < 50th percentile suffered more episodes of total morbidity (Tm) and of diarrhoea (p = 0.0364). Children whose mothers were normal in Ro had less Tm (p = 0.0364) and fewer respiratory symptoms (p = 0.0300) and tended to have less diarrhoea (p = 0.0690). In poor urban families in Santiago psychological maternal characteristics are associated with an increased health risk for the infants. Supportive programmes should consider both biological characteristics of the infants and maternal psychological needs.}, }
@article {pmid8914431, year = {1996}, author = {Suzuki, K}, title = {[Neurological disorders associated with impaired glucose tolerance].}, journal = {Nihon rinsho. Japanese journal of clinical medicine}, volume = {54}, number = {10}, pages = {2704-2708}, pmid = {8914431}, issn = {0047-1852}, mesh = {Autonomic Nervous System Diseases/*etiology ; Diabetes Complications ; Glucose Intolerance/*complications ; Humans ; Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/etiology ; }, abstract = {The clinical relevance of neurological disorders associated with impaired glucose tolerance(IGT) is reviewed. In this review some neurological diseases, such as, myotonic dystrophy, Crow-Fukase syndrome, Wolfram syndrome (DIDMOAD), Friedreich ataxia, spinal muscular atrophy of the Kennedy-Alter-Sung type, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson-dementia, and MELAS are discussed in relation to, glucose intolerance. Although the etiology of these disorders still remains an enigma, MELAS was caused by an A-to-G mutation at nucleotide position 3243 of the mitochondria genome. An association of "diabetic neuropathy" with IGT appears to be negative. Peripheral nerve function did not differ between IGT and control subjects, whereas autonomic nerve function deviated; an abnormal expiration to inspiration ratio of R-R interval was significantly more common in IGT than in control subjects. In conclusion, diabetes, but not IGT, is associated with peripheral nerve dysfunction.}, }
@article {pmid8816500, year = {1996}, author = {Han, J and Sabbatini, P and White, E}, title = {Induction of apoptosis by human Nbk/Bik, a BH3-containing protein that interacts with E1B 19K.}, journal = {Molecular and cellular biology}, volume = {16}, number = {10}, pages = {5857-5864}, pmid = {8816500}, issn = {0270-7306}, support = {CA53370/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; CA64807/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adenovirus E1B Proteins/isolation &amp; purification/*metabolism ; Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; *Apoptosis ; Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins ; Consensus Sequence ; DNA-Binding Proteins ; Fungal Proteins/metabolism ; Gene Library ; HeLa Cells ; Humans ; Kinetics ; *Membrane Proteins ; Mitochondrial Proteins ; Molecular Sequence Data ; *Protein Biosynthesis ; Proteins/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification/*metabolism ; Recombinant Fusion Proteins/isolation &amp; purification/metabolism ; Saccharomyces cerevisiae/growth &amp; development/metabolism ; *Saccharomyces cerevisiae Proteins ; Sequence Homology, Amino Acid ; *Transcription Factors ; Transfection ; }, abstract = {The E1B 19-kilodalton protein (19K protein) is a potent apoptosis inhibitor and the adenovirus homolog of Bcl-2 (E. White, Genes Dev. 10:1-15, 1996). To obtain a better understanding of the biochemical mechanism by which the E1B 19K protein regulates apoptosis, proteins that interact with 19K have been identified; one of these is Bax (J. Han, P. Sabbatini, D. Perez, L. Rao, D. Mohda, and E. White, Genes Dev. 10:461-477, 1996), and another is Bak (S. N. Farrow, J. H. M. White, I. Martinou, T. Raven, K.-T. Pun, C. J. Grinham, J.-C. Martinou, and R. Brown, Nature (London) 374:731-733, 1995). Bax and Bak are Bcl-2 family members which contain Bcl-2 homology regions 1, 2, and 3 (BH1, BH2, and BH3), which interact with E1B 19K and Bcl-2 and promote apoptosis. Like Bax and Bak, Nbk was cloned from a yeast two-hybrid screen for proteins that interact with E1B 19K. Nbk contained BH3 but not BH1 or BH2. It also interacted with Bcl-2 but not with Bax. Both Bcl-2 and E1B 19K interacted with Nbk in vitro, and this interaction was highly specific. In vivo, the Nbk and E1B 19K proteins may colocalize with cytoplasmic and nuclear membranes. Nbk expression functionally antagonized 19K-mediated inhibition of apoptotic cell death and completely prevented transformation by E1A and E1B 19K. Nbk was sufficient for induction of apoptosis in the presence of mutant p53 and thus low levels of Bax, suggesting that Nbk functions independently of Bax to induce apoptosis. Nbk may therefore represent a novel death regulator which contains only a BH3 that interacts with and antagonizes apoptosis inhibitors such as the E1B 19K protein.}, }
@article {pmid9171016, year = {1996}, author = {Behr, M and Fellner, C and Bayreuther, G and Leibrock, A and Held, P and Fellner, F and Handel, G}, title = {MR-imaging of the TMJ: artefacts caused by dental alloys.}, journal = {The European journal of prosthodontics and restorative dentistry}, volume = {4}, number = {3}, pages = {111-115}, pmid = {9171016}, issn = {0965-7452}, mesh = {*Artifacts ; Dental Alloys/*chemistry ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/*methods ; Magnetics ; Temporomandibular Joint/*pathology ; Temporomandibular Joint Disorders/*diagnosis ; }, abstract = {The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of dental alloys and their components on magnetic resonance imaging of the temporomandibular joint. A plaster and a water- filled acrylic resin phantom - representing the disc and the condyle of the TMJ - were used. Cylindrical crow-type samples of 13 alloys and 14 pure substances were investigated. All alloys were examined with regard to their magnetic susceptibility, using a vibrating sample magnetometer. Metallic artefacts appeared on spin-echo technique as distortions, and on gradient-echo technique signal loss could be observed. Precious alloys were shown to be diamagnetic. The non precious alloys we investigated were paramagnetic. Paramagnetic alloys with a magnetic molar-susceptibility Cmol > 2000 x10(-6) cm3/mol can produce clinically relevant artefacts.}, }
@article {pmid9000218, year = {1996}, author = {Zorina, ZA and Kalinina, TS and Markina, NV}, title = {Capacity of birds for transitive inference: the solution of the Gillan test by corvids and pigeons.}, journal = {Neuroscience and behavioral physiology}, volume = {26}, number = {5}, pages = {454-459}, pmid = {9000218}, issn = {0097-0549}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Columbidae/*physiology ; Individuality ; Learning/*physiology ; Physiology, Comparative ; *Reinforcement, Psychology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {A system of four to five differentiations forming a series, in which the magnitude of the reinforcement (R) of each succeeding color stimulus was greater than the preceding by one unit, was formed in pigeons (Columba livia L.) and crows (Corvus corone cornix L.). The number of units of the R that was associated with each of the stimuli increased successively from stimulus pair to stimulus pair from one up to four to five (1st series) and from five to ten (2nd series). After the development of the system of differentiations, the capacity of the birds to compare the magnitudes of R in given new combinations of stimuli and to choose the stimulus associated with the greater R (transitive inference) was tested. Given small Rs, the pigeons and crows solved the test equally successfully; in the case of large reinforcements, the pigeons began to make random choices, while in the crows the proportion of correct choices decreased. The proportion of appropriate solutions was greater when it was a greater absolute difference between the number of units of the R to be compared. The solution of the test employed by the birds is not proof of their capacity for transitive inference, since it can be explained by their capacity for unexpected comparison of the absolute values of the R associated with each of the stimuli.}, }
@article {pmid8840682, year = {1996}, author = {Hubálek, Z and Anderson, JF and Halouzka, J and Hájek, V}, title = {Borreliae in immature Ixodes ricinus (Acari:Ixodidae) ticks parasitizing birds in the Czech Republic.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {33}, number = {5}, pages = {766-771}, doi = {10.1093/jmedent/33.5.766}, pmid = {8840682}, issn = {0022-2585}, support = {AI30548/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Borrelia burgdorferi Group/*isolation &amp; purification ; Ixodes/*microbiology ; Tick Infestations/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {Of 411 forest birds of 33 species examined near Valtice, Czech Republic, 29% were infested with Ixodes ricinus (L.); 2.2% were parasitized by Haemaphysalis concinna Koch. Borreliae were detected in 5.1 and 11.7% of larval and nymphal I. ricinus, respectively. None of the 13 H. concinna tested was infected. In total, 3.2% of the birds examined were parasitized by I. ricinus immatures infected by borreliae. Borreliae-containing ticks parasitized European robin, Erithacus rubecula (L.); Eurasian blackbird, Turdus merula L.; Blackcap, Sylvia atricapilla (L.); Eurasian chiffchaff, Phylloscopus collybita (Vieillot); Great tit, Parus major L.; and Eurasian jay, Garrulus glandarius (L.). The isolate BR-34 from a nymphal I. ricinus off a Eurasian blackbird had a sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis protein pattern, reactions to monoclonal antibodies, and fragments of HindIII digested DNA probed with fla and ospA genes that suggested to us that it belongs to the genospecies Borrelia garinii. Free-living birds may be involved in the circulation of B. burgdorferi sensu lato principally as disseminators of infected ixodid ticks to new area.}, }
@article {pmid8828394, year = {1996}, author = {Elphick, R}, title = {Issues in comparing the speechreading abilities of hearing-impaired and hearing 15 to 16 year-old pupils.}, journal = {The British journal of educational psychology}, volume = {66 (Pt 3)}, number = {}, pages = {357-365}, doi = {10.1111/j.2044-8279.1996.tb01202.x}, pmid = {8828394}, issn = {0007-0998}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Female ; Hearing/*physiology ; *Hearing Loss, Sensorineural ; Humans ; *Lipreading ; Male ; }, abstract = {The speechreading skills of 57 hearing-impaired 15 to 16-year-olds were compared with a sample of 30 hearing pupils in the same school year. Previous comparative studies have included a complete population of hearing-impaired pupils or have been confined to those who are severely-profoundly deaf. In the present study only pupils who had sufficient verbal memory to be able to repeat up to six words in a sentence were included. The test stimuli consisted of two word lists, one from the AB isophonemic word lists and the other from the New Manchester Picture Test together with a sentence list from the Manchester Speechreading (Lipreading) Test. The hearing-impaired pupils were placed full time in mainstream units for the hearing impaired and special schools for the hearing impaired. The sample also contained a small group of five who were placed in schools for children with moderate learning difficulties. The hearing-impaired group scored significantly better than the hearing group in all of the lists. Intelligence factors assessed by the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices were not a major influence except for the MLD group. The superiority of the hearing-impaired sample is attributed to a greater need for speechreading and the practice derived from it. Evidence from this study supports the view that sufficient development in memory for spoken language needs to occur for a child to maximise speechreading skills.}, }
@article {pmid8964485, year = {1996}, author = {Kadoshnikova, MIu and Brusintseva, OV and Startseva, EA and El'chinova, GI and Petrova, NV and Bukina, AM and Mamedova, RA and Ginter, EK}, title = {[Genetico-demographic characteristics of the population from three districts of the Bryansk region].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {32}, number = {8}, pages = {1142-1147}, pmid = {8964485}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {*Demography ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Russia ; }, abstract = {Results of genetic demographic investigation of three nations located in west Bryanskaya oblast (Klintsovskii, Klimovskii, and Starodubskii nations) are presented. A comparison is made with respect to a number of demographic parameters of "southern" (Krasnodar) and "northern" (Kirov) Russian populations. A low level of the Crow index, which is associated with a differential mortality rate, Im = 0.07, was established in the population studied. This fact significantly distinguishes the population of Bryanskaya oblast from other studied Russian populations. With respect to sex and age structure and the Crow index, the Bryansk population is comparable to the southern Krasnodar population, while in terms of level of isolation and inbreeding, the Bryansk population is similar to the northern Kirov population. Moreover, it was found that the Chernobyl meltdown in 1986 did not lead to any change in the genetic demographic situation in the three studied nations.}, }
@article {pmid8915764, year = {1996}, author = {Giovagnoli, AR and Del Pesce, M and Mascheroni, S and Simoncelli, M and Laiacona, M and Capitani, E}, title = {Trail making test: normative values from 287 normal adult controls.}, journal = {Italian journal of neurological sciences}, volume = {17}, number = {4}, pages = {305-309}, pmid = {8915764}, issn = {0392-0461}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Education ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Italy ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Reference Values ; Regression Analysis ; Reproducibility of Results ; Trail Making Test/*standards ; }, abstract = {The Trail Making Test (TMT), which explores visual-conceptual and visual-motor tracking, is a frequently used neuropsychological test because of its ease of administration and sensitivity to brain damage. In this paper, norms are provided for the time scores derived from parts A and B, and for the (B-A) difference. The data were collected from 287 adult Italian subjects stratified by gender, schooling and age (from 20 to 79 years). The test scores were affected by age, education and general intelligence (as expressed by Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices). Only for part A did females have longer time scores than males. Test-retest reliability was high for each score.}, }
@article {pmid8894744, year = {1996}, author = {Satoh, K and Miura, I and Chubachi, A and Utsumi, S and Imai, H and Miura, AB}, title = {Development of secondary leukemia associated with (1;7)(q10;p10) in a patient with Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {Internal medicine (Tokyo, Japan)}, volume = {35}, number = {8}, pages = {660-662}, doi = {10.2169/internalmedicine.35.660}, pmid = {8894744}, issn = {0918-2918}, mesh = {Adult ; Alkylating Agents/adverse effects ; *Chromosome Aberrations ; Chromosomes, Human, Pair 1 ; Chromosomes, Human, Pair 7 ; Cyclophosphamide/adverse effects ; Female ; Humans ; Leukemia, Erythroblastic, Acute/*etiology/*genetics ; Melphalan/adverse effects ; Myelodysplastic Syndromes/etiology/genetics ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications ; Translocation, Genetic ; Trisomy ; }, abstract = {A 42-year-old woman with Crow-Fukase syndrome developed acute myeloid leukemia (M6: FAB classification) following treatment with alkylating agents (a total of 2,500 mg of melphalan and 9,800 mg of cyclophosphamide). Chromosome analysis of the bone marrow showed 49,XX,der(1;7)(q10;p10), +8, +19, +21 in therapy-related myelodysplastic syndrome with additional chromosomes 8, and 12 and two additional chromosomes 21 in acute leukemia. Because of the risk of therapy-related leukemia, alkylating agents should be used with caution in the treatment of Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid8764668, year = {1996}, author = {Mattay, VS and Berman, KF and Ostrem, JL and Esposito, G and Van Horn, JD and Bigelow, LB and Weinberger, DR}, title = {Dextroamphetamine enhances "neural network-specific" physiological signals: a positron-emission tomography rCBF study.}, journal = {The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience}, volume = {16}, number = {15}, pages = {4816-4822}, pmid = {8764668}, issn = {0270-6474}, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Brain/*diagnostic imaging ; Cerebrovascular Circulation/*drug effects ; Cognition/drug effects ; Dextroamphetamine/*pharmacology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory/drug effects ; Tomography, Emission-Computed ; }, abstract = {Previous studies in animals and humans suggest that monoamines enhance behavior-evoked neural activity relative to nonspecific background activity (i.e., increase signal-to-noise ratio). We studied the effects of dextroamphetamine, an indirect monoaminergic agonist, on cognitively evoked neural activity in eight healthy subjects using positron-emission tomography and the O15 water intravenous bolus method to measure regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF). Dextroamphetamine (0.25 mg/kg) or placebo was administered in a double-blind, counterbalanced design 2 hr before the rCBF study in sessions separated by 1-2 weeks. rCBF was measured while subjects performed four different tasks: two abstract reasoning tasks--the Wisconsin Card Sorting Task (WCST), a neuropsychological test linked to a cortical network involving dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and other association cortices, and Ravens Progressive Matrices (RPM), a nonverbal intelligence test linked to posterior cortical systems--and two corresponding sensorimotor control tasks. There were no significant drug or task effects on pCO2 or on global blood flow. However, the effect of dextroamphetamine (i.e., dextroamphetamine vs placebo) on task-dependent rCBF activation (i.e., task - control task) showed double dissociations with respect to task and region in the very brain areas that most distinctly differentiate the tasks. In the superior portion of the left inferior frontal gyrus, dextroamphetamine increased rCBF during WCST but decreased it during RPM (ANOVA F (1,7) = 16.72, p < 0.0046). In right hippocampus, blood flow decreased during WCST but increased during RPM (ANOVA F(1,7) = 18.7, p < 0.0035). These findings illustrate that dextroamphetamine tends to "focus" neural activity, to highlight the neural network that is specific for a particular cognitive task. This capacity of dextroamphetamine to induce cognitively specific signal augmentation may provide a neurobiological explanation for improved cognitive efficiency with dextroamphetamine.}, }
@article {pmid8876010, year = {1996}, author = {Dupont, RM and Rourke, SB and Grant, I and Lehr, PP and Reed, RJ and Challakere, K and Lamoureux, G and Halpern, S}, title = {Single photon emission computed tomography with iodoamphetamine-123 and neuropsychological studies in long-term abstinent alcoholics.}, journal = {Psychiatry research}, volume = {67}, number = {2}, pages = {99-111}, doi = {10.1016/0925-4927(96)02769-2}, pmid = {8876010}, issn = {0165-1781}, support = {MH-13899/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; MH-30914/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; MO1-RR00827/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Alcoholism/*diagnosis ; Brain/blood supply ; Humans ; Male ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Smoking ; *Tomography, Emission-Computed, Single-Photon ; }, abstract = {Ten long-term abstinent alcoholics (mean abstinence = 7.7 years) were compared with 13 recently detoxified substance-dependent inpatients (mean abstinence = 25 days) and 8 nonalcoholic control subjects on global end regional measures of cortical cerebral blood flow (CBF), and on neuropsychological measures. CBF was assessed using 123iodoamphetamine (IMP) single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) under conditions of behavioral challenge (Raven's Progressive Matrices). CBF and neuropsychological test performance were worse in the recently detoxified inpatients. Of greater interest, there was a dissociation in the long-term abstinent group, which, while neuropsychologically indistinguishable from controls, showed significantly decreased mean cortical IMP uptake. We conclude that there may be persistent physiologic abnormalities in long-term abstinent alcoholics who have achieved full behavioral recovery. Smoking on the day of SPECT scanning was also identified to be a significant confound to understanding CBF changes in alcoholism.}, }
@article {pmid8912342, year = {1996}, author = {Zorina, ZA and Smirnova, AA}, title = {Quantitative evaluations in gray crows: generalization of the relative attribute "larger set".}, journal = {Neuroscience and behavioral physiology}, volume = {26}, number = {4}, pages = {357-364}, pmid = {8912342}, issn = {0097-0549}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Choice Behavior/physiology ; Conditioning, Operant/physiology ; Generalization, Psychological ; Size Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Four gray crows were trained to choose the larger of two sets presented to them within the "1-12" range. The color, form, and size of the stimulus elements on cards, as well as the patterns of their disposition, were varied constantly during training, while at the same time prohibiting the use of extraneous features not relating to the number of elements. In order to exclude choice on the basis of the total area of the elements, series of presentations with variation of the ratio of the number of elements and their total area were carried out: in half of the presentations the larger set consisted of small elements, and the smaller set of large elements; in the second half, the reverse. In this range all of the birds demonstrated a high accuracy of evaluations (75.3 +/- 2.4%), including when there were minimal differences between the sets to be compared. Thus, in the "1-12" range, the crows were found to be capable of accurately comparing sets precisely on the basis of the number of elements in them. When a transition was made to a new "10-20" range, all of the crows demonstrated a successful transfer of the developed reaction (71.5 +/- 2.3%). However, when the ratio of the number of elements and their total area was varied, only two birds were able to cope with this task (71.9 +/- 3.6%). Overall, the results obtained indicate a capacity of crows for the formation of the concept "larger set," and are regarded as a manifestation of a high level of development of reflective activity.}, }
@article {pmid8711631, year = {1996}, author = {Berlit, P}, title = {[Vasculitis].}, journal = {Therapeutische Umschau. Revue therapeutique}, volume = {53}, number = {7}, pages = {559-567}, pmid = {8711631}, issn = {0040-5930}, mesh = {Behcet Syndrome/diagnosis ; Cerebral Arterial Diseases/*diagnosis ; Churg-Strauss Syndrome/diagnosis ; Collagen Diseases/diagnosis ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Giant Cell Arteritis/diagnosis ; Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis ; Humans ; Vasculitis/*diagnosis ; }, abstract = {Vasculitis, restricted to the central nervous system, may be an iodiopathic disorder or may be secondary to toxins, infections or neoplasm. Alternatively, it may be part of a systemic autoimmune disease. Temporal arteritis presents with headache, jay claudication, polymyalgia rheumatica and constitutional symptoms. Hemispheric strokes occur in 10%, especially in the territory supplied by the posterior or the middle cerebral arteries. Corticosteroids are the treatment of choice. Isolated angitis of the central nervous system is an idiopathic recurrent inflammatory disease of the small and medium-sized vessels, confirmed to the brain and the spinal cord. Persisting headaches, encephalopathy with personality changes, cognitive disorders and memory disturbances as well as multifocal neurologic deficits resulting from recurrent cerebral ischemia and cranial nerve involvement are the most frequent presently symptoms of the disease. Angiography of the intracranial vessels presents segmental stenoses or dilatations of the medium and small vessels; a leptomeningeal biopsy demonstrating vasculitis is the only reliable diagnostic method. Treatment is instituted with prednisone and cyclophosphamide. At least one year of therapy is necessary. The typical dermatological manifestations of Behçet's disease are aphthous stomatitis, genital ulcerations and ocular inflammation. Neurological involvement has been described in 30% of all patients with Behçhet's disease. Sinus thrombosis presents with the signs of intracranial hypertension. A meningoencephalitis with headaches, disturbances of consciousness and focal neurologic symptoms is frequent; spinal cord involvement occurs. The treatment of choice for Behçet's disease consists of steroids in combination with chlorambucil or azathioprine. While polyarteritis nodosa and the Churg-Strauss syndrome most frequently involve the peripheral nervous system. CNS involvement is encountered in Wegener's granulomatosis. In lupus erythematosus and Sjorgren's syndrome, cerebral symptoms are rarely caused by a true vasculitis. In lupus erythematosus, nervous system involvement has been attributed to autoantibodies which interact directly with neurons [antineuronal antibodies] or indirectly lead to thrombotic vasculopathy by influencing the coagulation system [antiphospholipid antibodies].}, }
@article {pmid8699451, year = {1996}, author = {Klich, M and Lankester, MW and Wu, KW}, title = {Spring migratory birds (Aves) extend the northern occurrence of blacklegged tick (Acari:Ixodidae).}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {33}, number = {4}, pages = {581-585}, doi = {10.1093/jmedent/33.4.581}, pmid = {8699451}, issn = {0022-2585}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Birds ; Female ; *Ixodes/classification ; Mites/classification ; Ontario ; Peromyscus/parasitology ; Rabbits ; Sciuridae/parasitology ; Tick Infestations/parasitology/*veterinary ; Ticks/classification ; }, abstract = {Birds that had migrated northward across Lake Superior were captured upon reaching landfall at Thunder Cape (48 degrees 18' N, 88 degrees 56' W) at the southwestern tip of the Sibley Peninsula, northwestern Ontario, from 9 May to 9 June 1995. Twenty-one of 530 birds examined (6 of 55 species) had a total of 34 ticks; 1 blue jay, Cyanocitta cristata, had a northern fowl mite, Ornithonyssus sylviarum (Canestrini &amp; Fanzago). Four blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis Say, larvae were found on an American robin, Turdus migratorius, and 2 on a chipping sparrow, Spizella passerina. This tick was not found on small mammals at Thunder Cape. Twenty-six larvae and a nymph of the rabbit tick, Haemaphysalis leporispalustris (Packard) were found on 1 American robin, 2 Swainson's thrushes, Catharus ustulatus, 1 white-throated sparrow, Zonotrichia albicollis, 1 common yellowthroat, Geothlypis trichas, 1 blue jay, and 12 chipping sparrows. A nymph of H. chordeilis (Packard) occurred on 1 chipping sparrow. Results demonstrate that northward migrating birds transport larvae of I. scapularis to areas of Ontario where the tick does not appear to have become established in small mammal populations. Spring migrants may be more involved in the dispersal of I. scapularis larvae than previously thought. Cooler temperatures and shorter seasons experienced in the more northerly, continental parts of the established distribution of this tick may extend the life cycle, resulting in a predominance of larvae rather than nymphs being acquired by northward-bound birds in early spring. Consequently, the role of spring migrating birds in the northward spread of I. scapularis and of borreliosis should be reevaluated.}, }
@article {pmid8682213, year = {1996}, author = {Charlebois, RL and Gaasterland, T and Ragan, MA and Doolittle, WF and Sensen, CW}, title = {The Sulfolobus solfataricus P2 genome project.}, journal = {FEBS letters}, volume = {389}, number = {1}, pages = {88-91}, doi = {10.1016/0014-5793(96)00525-x}, pmid = {8682213}, issn = {0014-5793}, mesh = {Databases, Factual ; *Genome, Bacterial ; Multigene Family ; Sulfolobus/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Over 800 kbp of the 3-Mbp genome of Sulfolobus solfataricus have been sequenced to date. Our approach is to sequence subclones of mapped cosmids, followed by sequencing directly on cosmid templates with custom primers. Using a prototype automated system for genome-scale analysis, known as MAGPIE, along with other tools, we have discovered one open reading frame of at least 100 amino acids per kbp of sequence, and have been able to associate 50% of these with known genes through database searches. An examination of completely sequenced cosmids suggests a clustering of genes by function in the S. solfataricus genome.}, }
@article {pmid8964469, year = {1996}, author = {Posukh, OL and Osipova, LP and Kriukov, IuA and Ivakin, EA}, title = {[Genetic-demographic analysis of the population of native inhabitants of the Samburg tundra].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {32}, number = {6}, pages = {822-829}, pmid = {8964469}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Distribution ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Consanguinity ; *Demography ; Female ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Male ; Marriage ; Middle Aged ; Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander/*genetics ; Racial Groups ; Reproduction/physiology ; Selection, Genetic ; Sex Distribution ; Siberia ; Transients and Migrants ; }, abstract = {Genetic-demographic parameters (Tundra Nentsi, Forest Nentsi, and Komi) of the population of native inhabitants of the Samburg Tundra (population size, age and sex structure, sex ratio) are presented. The size of the portion of the population of reproductive age (35.5% of the total), family size (3.04), and the predominance of the portion of the population under reproductive allow us to classify this population as growing. Results of analysis of marriage structure, mixing, and migration processes in the group of Tundra Nentsi are presented. It is shown, that the gene contribution of Tundra Nentsi themselves into the population is 74%. The index of endogamy is 42.4%. The inbreeding coefficient in the population is 0.003. It is demonstrated that the average number and variance of births for Tundra Nentsi women who have passed their reproductive years are 7.55 and 11.07, respectively. Crow's index of total selection (Itot) and its components (Im, I(f)) were 0.75, 0.47, and 0.19, respectively.}, }
@article {pmid8774025, year = {1996}, author = {Hill, OW}, title = {The internal/external dimension in psychoepistemic orientation and measures of ability.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {82}, number = {3 Pt 1}, pages = {872-874}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1996.82.3.872}, pmid = {8774025}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Adult ; *Aptitude ; Female ; *Field Dependence-Independence ; Humans ; *Internal-External Control ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Orientation ; Psychomotor Performance ; Students/*psychology ; }, abstract = {This study examined the associations of scores on the internal/external dimension of psychoepistemic style and measures of ability. Subjects were assessed using the portable rod and frame test, the Psycho-Epistemological Profile, and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. The grade point averages of the subjects were also recorded. A principal components factor analysis indicated that, while GPA was significantly loaded on both the internal and external orientation factors, the measure of analogical reasoning was significantly loaded on the internal orientation factor only. The implications of these findings are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid8767042, year = {1996}, author = {Verdoux, H and Bourgeois, M}, title = {[Schizophrenic deficit syndrome and neurologic tolerance].}, journal = {L'Encephale}, volume = {22 Spec No 2}, number = {}, pages = {45-47}, pmid = {8767042}, issn = {0013-7006}, mesh = {Antipsychotic Agents/*adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Depression/classification/diagnosis/*drug therapy/psychology ; Dyskinesia, Drug-Induced/*diagnosis/psychology ; Humans ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Risk Factors ; Schizophrenia/classification/diagnosis/*drug therapy ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; }, abstract = {Risk factors promoting the occurrence of neuroleptic-related tardive dyskinesia remain poorly understood. It has been hypothesized that type II schizophrenia, based on Crow's classification, would be more liable to this complication due to cerebral structural abnormalities involved in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia characterized by deficitary symptoms. Association between tardive dyskinesia and cognitive deficit is currently the most firmly established. Data in the literature concerning the association between tardive dyskinesia and the other features of type II schizophrenia are more contradictory.}, }
@article {pmid8767037, year = {1996}, author = {Samuelian, JC}, title = {[Incidence of the deficit form in refractory schizophrenia].}, journal = {L'Encephale}, volume = {22 Spec No 2}, number = {}, pages = {19-23}, pmid = {8767037}, issn = {0013-7006}, mesh = {Antipsychotic Agents/*therapeutic use ; Chronic Disease ; Depression/classification/diagnosis/*drug therapy ; Humans ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Schizophrenia/classification/diagnosis/*drug therapy ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Treatment Failure ; }, abstract = {The treatment and management of schizophrenic patients "resistant" to neuroleptics is one of the major problem areas in current psychiatry, as is deficitary (non-productive) schizophrenia, which is considered to be the least curable clinical form of the disease. What is the scope of these definitions? The majority of definitions amalgamate affective blunting, social withdrawal, poverty of ideas and speech when describing the deficitary clinical picture. Even though there are differences between authors such as Andreasen and Kay, the consensus opinion holds that there is impoverished emotional range and diminished spontaneous movement. The term "resistance" refers to resistance to neuroleptic treatments. Kane, for example, stipulates that 3 antipsychotic treatments at effective doses and prescribed for an adequate length of time must have proved to be ineffective before the patient can be termed "treatment-resistant". Based on studies, 5 to 20% of these patients are also intolerant of neuroleptics, in particular of their extrapyramidal effects, which induce Parkinson's syndrome, akathisia and tardive dyskinesia. The sedative and extrapyramidal effects of neuroleptics may incidentally augment the negative symptoms (Möller, 1993). Currently there is no scientific method of predicting the likely profile of responders and non-responders to neuroleptics. Collaborative studies carried out by the National Institute of Mental Health (Cole et al., 1964, 1966) on the response to neuroleptics in the acute phase of schizophrenia showed that 3% of patients were worsened, 22% marginally improved and 69% greatly improved by treatment. Recognition of negative forms in resistant schizophrenia also requires distinction between depressive features which develop during the course of schizophrenia. Symptoms such as anhedonia, apathy, social withdrawal and poverty of speed which are typical of depressive illness are also considered to be schizophrenic symptoms (Maier et al., 1990). It is currently accepted that 10 to 25% of schizophrenic patients may be considered as non-responders to antipsychotic treatments. When evaluating this response not only the disappearance of positive and negative symptoms, but also the ability to function socially and professionally and the number of hospitalizations must be taken into account (Strauss and Carpenter, 1972), (Brenner, 1990). It is highly appropriate to evaluate the beneficial effects of treatments on positive and negative symptoms. Johnstone et al. (1978) verified the hypothesis that the traditional neuroleptics were less effective against negative symptoms. Kay and Opler (1987) showed that improvement in these symptoms took longer to become established. The negative symptoms which characterize type II schizophrenia described by Crow (1980, 1985) are considered to be non-responders to treatment. However, authors such as Goldberg (1985) and Meltzer et al. (1986) in the French tradition have dismissed this argument. Studies on the evaluation of treatment currently tend to make a sharp distinction between negative and positive poles. In all cases, biological treatment is rarely adequate and it is essential to combine it with psychosocial therapy. Information from patient and family on the type of illness involved and on the different types of assistance which can be provided, as much medical as purely social, invariably proves useful.}, }
@article {pmid8744759, year = {1996}, author = {Nunn, GB and Cracraft, J}, title = {Phylogenetic relationships among the major lineages of the birds-of-paradise (Paradisaeidae) using mitochondrial DNA gene sequences.}, journal = {Molecular phylogenetics and evolution}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {445-459}, doi = {10.1006/mpev.1996.0041}, pmid = {8744759}, issn = {1055-7903}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Base Composition ; Base Sequence ; Birds/*classification/*genetics ; Cytochrome b Group/genetics ; DNA, Mitochondrial/chemistry/*genetics ; Evolution, Molecular ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Papua New Guinea ; *Phylogeny ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Sequence Homology, Nucleic Acid ; Time ; }, abstract = {Complete mitochondrial cytochrome b gene sequences were determined from 12 species of the Australo-Papuan birds-of-paradise (Paradisaeidae) representing 9 genera. Phylogenetic analysis of these and 5 previously published sequences reveals a radiation of the main paradisaeinine lineages that took place over a relatively short evolutionary time scale. The core paradisaeinines are resolved as the monophyletic sister-group to the crow-like manucodines. The genus Parotia is basal to other paradisaeinines and is not closely related to the morphologically similar genera Ptiloris and Lophorina. Three major clades within the paradisaeinine ingroup include: (1) Cicinnurus and Diphyllodes, (2) Ptiloris and Lophorina, and (3) the genus Paradisaea. The monotypic genus Seleucidis is apparently closely related to clades (1) and (2). Cytochrome b sequences did not provide evidence for the monophyly of the sicklebill genera Epimachus and Drepanornis. The paradisaeid tree is characterized by short internodal distances. Thus, some clades cannot be strongly resolved by cytochrome b sequences alone.}, }
@article {pmid8660149, year = {1996}, author = {Zappacosta, B and Monza, D and Meoni, C and Austoni, L and Soliveri, P and Gellera, C and Alberti, R and Mantero, M and Penati, G and Caraceni, T and Girotti, F}, title = {Psychiatric symptoms do not correlate with cognitive decline, motor symptoms, or CAG repeat length in Huntington's disease.}, journal = {Archives of neurology}, volume = {53}, number = {6}, pages = {493-497}, doi = {10.1001/archneur.1996.00550060035012}, pmid = {8660149}, issn = {0003-9942}, mesh = {Adult ; Awareness ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*genetics/psychology ; Denial, Psychological ; Female ; Humans ; Huntington Disease/diagnosis/*genetics/psychology ; Interview, Psychological ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neurocognitive Disorders/diagnosis/*genetics/psychology ; Neurologic Examination ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Psychomotor Disorders/diagnosis/*genetics/psychology ; Sick Role ; Trinucleotide Repeats/*genetics ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To investigate the hypothesis that psychiatric disturbances in Huntington's disease are related to degree of cognitive or motor compromise and to determine correlations between CAG repeat length within the gene for Huntington's disease and disease severity.<br><br>DESIGN: Consecutive series of patients with Huntington's disease.<br><br>SETTING: Neurological specialty hospital.<br><br>PATIENTS: Seventeen men and 12 women from 24 families.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The Hamilton Psychiatric and Anxiety Rating Scales and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale were used to assess psychiatric disturbances; Folstein's Quantified Neurological Examination to evaluate motor status; and the Mini-Mental State Examination, Raven Progressive Matrices), Phonemic Verbal Fluency Test, Short Tale Test, Visual Search Test, and Benton's Visual Orientation Line Test to evaluate cognitive function. The length of the CAG repeat sequence in the Huntington's gene was determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction.<br><br>RESULTS: Cognitive test scores correlated significantly with each other; of these, results of the Visual Search and Short Tale tests correlated significantly with the Folstein's Quantified Neurological Examination score (P = .05 and P = .03, respectively). Results of the Folstein's Quantified Neurological Examination also correlated with the illness duration and the length of the CAG repeat. Although psychiatric scores correlated significantly among themselves (P < .01), neither cognitive compromise, motor deterioration, nor CAG length were related to the extent of psychiatric compromise. Patients who were depressed when they were examined tended to have a history of psychiatric disorders.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The lack of correlation between disease severity and psychiatric disturbances indicates that psychiatric disorders progress nonlinearly, possibly because of differential degeneration of the striatal-cortical circuits; the possibility that psychiatric disorders are prevalent in certain families with a member who has Huntington's disease is being further investigated. The lack of correlation between CAG length and cognitive and psychiatric variables needs further investigation.}, }
@article {pmid8761978, year = {1996}, author = {Simpson, VR and MacKenzie, G and Harris, EA}, title = {Fatal microfilarial infection in red billed blue magpies (Urocissa erythrorhynchus).}, journal = {The Veterinary record}, volume = {138}, number = {21}, pages = {522-523}, doi = {10.1136/vr.138.21.522}, pmid = {8761978}, issn = {0042-4900}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology/pathology ; Birds/*parasitology ; Fatal Outcome ; Female ; Filariasis/parasitology/pathology/*veterinary ; *Filarioidea ; Liver/parasitology/pathology ; Lung/parasitology/pathology ; Male ; Microfilariae ; }, }
@article {pmid11363530, year = {1996}, author = {Levy, JA}, title = {Scanning the headlines with Jay A. Levy, MD. Interview by Mark Mascolini.}, journal = {Journal of the International Association of Physicians in AIDS Care}, volume = {2}, number = {5}, pages = {40-44}, pmid = {11363530}, issn = {1081-454X}, mesh = {Animals ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Disease Models, Animal ; Genes, nef ; HIV/genetics/*isolation &amp; purification ; *HIV Infections/complications/drug therapy/immunology ; Humans ; Needlestick Injuries ; Papio ; Sarcoma, Kaposi/virology ; Sexual Behavior ; Simplexvirus/isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity ; }, }
@article {pmid8991383, year = {1996}, author = {Levy, JA and Mackewicz, CE and Barker, E}, title = {Controlling HIV pathogenesis: the role of the noncytotoxic anti-HIV response of CD8+ T cells.}, journal = {Immunology today}, volume = {17}, number = {5}, pages = {217-224}, doi = {10.1016/0167-5699(96)10011-6}, pmid = {8991383}, issn = {0167-5699}, mesh = {CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/*immunology ; *Cytotoxicity, Immunologic ; HIV/*immunology/*pathogenicity ; HIV Infections/*etiology/immunology/*microbiology ; Humans ; }, abstract = {Noncytotoxic CD8+ T cells may play a critical role in preventing progression to disease following human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. This antiviral response, mediated by a novel CD8+ T-cell antiviral factor (CAF), occurs soon after infection and is maintained in asymptomatic individuals. Here, Jay Levy and colleagues propose that this antiviral activity represents a natural cellular immune reaction that controls HIV production and protects the host from potential harmful effects of cytotoxic T lymphocytes.}, }
@article {pmid8767044, year = {1996}, author = {Brazo, P and Ribeyre, JM and Petit, M and Dollfus, S}, title = {[Identification by typological analysis of distinct groups of schizophrenic patients. Applicability of a disorganized schizophrenia subtype].}, journal = {L'Encephale}, volume = {22}, number = {3}, pages = {165-174}, pmid = {8767044}, issn = {0013-7006}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cluster Analysis ; Cohort Studies ; Depressive Disorder/classification/diagnosis/psychology ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Psychiatric Status Rating Scales/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; Schizophrenia, Disorganized/*classification/diagnosis/psychology ; Thinking ; }, abstract = {Since Crow, Andreasen et al. have described schizophrenia in terms of negative and positive symptoms, the dichotomic approach has been well established. As a matter of fact, factor analyses, especially principal components analyses, led with symptomatic specific scales, have proved their validity. But they have shown their limits too : some authors think that the dichotomic model fails to explain all of the schizophrenic psychopathology and that a third dimension including formal thought disorders, most of the time called "disorganization", should systematically be taken into account. In this study, the authors have hypothesized that a categorial approach could describe this "disorganization". Using a cluster analysis they investigated the existence of subtypes in a population including 136 schizophrenic patients assessed with the PANSS (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, Kayet al., 1987). The results suggested at least five subtypes: a pure positive subtype, characterized by high scores on items delusions, hallucinatory behavior, suspiciousness/persecution, and by a low score on conceptual disorganization item; a disorganized positive subtype, characterized by high scores on positive items, including conceptual disorganization item, and also high scores on unusual thought content and autistic preoccupation items; a negative subtype, characterized by high scores on negative items and low scores on positive items, including conceptual disorganization item; a mixed subtype, characterized by high scores on the most positive, negative and general psychopathological items; a residual subtype, characterized by low scores on all the positive, negative and general psychopathological items. The good validity of this analysis was showed since differences on a number of clinical characteristics were observed between the five clusters. These results demonstrated the oversimplication of the positive-negative dichotomy and the relevance of a disorganized subtype.}, }
@article {pmid8810845, year = {1996}, author = {Fushimi, T and Inoue, A and Koh, CS and Yahikozawa, H and Yanagisawa, N}, title = {[A study on the pathogenesis of hepatomegaly in patients with Crow-Fukase syndrome].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {36}, number = {4}, pages = {534-539}, pmid = {8810845}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Aged ; Animals ; Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Ascitic Fluid/metabolism ; Cell Division/drug effects ; Cells, Cultured ; Female ; Hepatocyte Growth Factor/metabolism/physiology ; Hepatomegaly/drug therapy/*etiology ; Humans ; Liver/cytology ; Male ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred BALB C ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications ; Prednisolone/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {We studied pathogenesis of hepatomegaly in Crow-Fukase syndrome. Hepatocytes were isolated from BALB/c mice and cultured with serum or ascites of three patients with Crow-Fukase syndrome. After 24 hours culture, total number of hepatocytes was counted. The levels of human hepatocyte growth factor (h-HGF) in the serum were also measured. In the hepatocyte culture study, the numbers of hepatocytes after 24 hours cultured in the serum of two patients were significantly larger than those of the control group. When the hepatocytes were cultured with patients' serum after corticosteroid therapy, the survival numbers were markedly reduced. The serum levels of h-HGF in our three patients were 0.62, 0.52, 0.53 ng/ml respectively. They were all slightly higher than normal values (< or = 0.39 ng/ml). Our study indicates that in the serum or ascites of patients with Crow-Fukase syndrome, there may be some humoral factors other than h-HGF, which promote proliferation of hepatocyte or protect hepatocyte.}, }
@article {pmid8737824, year = {1996}, author = {Uberall, MA and Renner, C and Edl, S and Parzinger, E and Wenzel, D}, title = {VEP and ERP abnormalities in children and adolescents with prepubertal onset of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.}, journal = {Neuropediatrics}, volume = {27}, number = {2}, pages = {88-93}, doi = {10.1055/s-2007-973755}, pmid = {8737824}, issn = {0174-304X}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Arousal/physiology ; Attention/physiology ; Brain Diseases, Metabolic/diagnosis/*physiopathology ; Brain Mapping ; Cerebral Cortex/*physiopathology ; Child ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/diagnosis/*physiopathology ; Diabetic Neuropathies/diagnosis/*physiopathology ; *Electroencephalography ; Evoked Potentials/*physiology ; Evoked Potentials, Visual/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Reaction Time/physiology ; Reference Values ; Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted ; }, abstract = {Visual evoked sensory (VEP) and event-related potentials (ERP) were assessed in 29 adolescents with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) and in 29 controls matched for age and gender. Data were compared with clinical and psychometric measures, age at onset, duration of disease, and metabolic control. Analysis revealed no latency differences for the first cortical VEP component (P50) but a steadily increasing latency delay for subsequent VEP (N80, P100, N150, P200) and ERP components (P300) in the IDDM group compared to healthy controls. IDDM subjects showed highly significant latency prolongations (p < 0.001) for P100, N150 and P200 and P300 compared with healthy controls. A pathological VEP/ERP latency delay of more than 3 SD above the reference value range was observed in 21 IDDM patients (72.4%). Psychometric outcome measures in IDDM subjects showed no significant performance deficits on the Raven SPMs relative to non-diabetic controls. In contrast to VEP and ERP anomalies, which were highly interrelated, there was no tendency for neurophysiological and psychometric abnormalities to be contemporarily present. Neither electrophysiological nor psychometric measures were correlated with age at onset, IDDM duration, quality of metabolic control, or the presence of peripheral neuropathy. These findings give evidence that 1) higher cognitive functions are frequently affected in adolescents even with prepubertal IDDM onset, 2) neurophysiological ERP analysis seems to detect minor neurocognitive restrictions, presently not affecting psychometric outcome, 3) altered neurophysiological parameters were present in more than 70% of IDDM subjects studied, and 4) functional CNS disturbances affecting neurocognition are apparently not correlated with metabolic parameters previously thought to be important predictors of CNS outcome, suggesting the presence of multifactorial influences affecting neurocognition in IDDM subjects.}, }
@article {pmid8700448, year = {1996}, author = {Pollitt, E and Jacoby, E and Cueto, S}, title = {School breakfast and cognition among nutritionally at-risk children in the Peruvian Andes.}, journal = {Nutrition reviews}, volume = {54}, number = {4 Pt 2}, pages = {S22-6}, doi = {10.1111/j.1753-4887.1996.tb03894.x}, pmid = {8700448}, issn = {0029-6643}, mesh = {Child ; *Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; Cognition/*physiology ; *Food Services ; Humans ; Nutrition Disorders ; Peru ; Risk Factors ; *Schools ; }, }
@article {pmid8652731, year = {1996}, author = {Hárosi, FI}, title = {Visual pigment types and quantum-catch ratios: implications from three marine teleosts.}, journal = {The Biological bulletin}, volume = {190}, number = {2}, pages = {203-212}, doi = {10.2307/1542540}, pmid = {8652731}, issn = {0006-3185}, support = {EY04876/EY/NEI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Bass ; *Fishes ; Flounder ; Models, Chemical ; Photoreceptor Cells/*chemistry ; Retinal Pigments/*analysis/chemistry ; Species Specificity ; Spectrophotometry ; }, abstract = {Experimental data on photoreceptor cells and visual pigments are the basis for model calculations performed to assess photoreceptor quantum catches under disparate irradiance conditions. Three unrelated species of fish--black sea bass (Centropristis striata), sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus), and adult winter flounder (Pseudopleuronectes americanus)--are considered. In each case, receptor type quantum catches are compared for various water types and depths. By associating the habit and habitat of an organism with the physical properties of its photoreceptors, quantum-catch ratios are found as possible criteria in the selection of pigment peaks (lambda max). In addition to integrated ("total") quantum catches by the receptor types, rates of quantum catches are determined as a function of wavelength. The latter functions are replotted as pairwise difference spectra. These, in turn, are used to assess the ability of receptor types to participate in wavelength discrimination.}, }
@article {pmid8636587, year = {1996}, author = {Starr, JM and Whalley, LJ and Deary, IJ}, title = {The effects of antihypertensive treatment on cognitive function: results from the HOPE study.}, journal = {Journal of the American Geriatrics Society}, volume = {44}, number = {4}, pages = {411-415}, doi = {10.1111/j.1532-5415.1996.tb06412.x}, pmid = {8636587}, issn = {0002-8614}, mesh = {Aged ; Antihypertensive Agents/*administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology ; Bendroflumethiazide/*administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Diuretics ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Hypertension/*drug therapy/psychology ; Male ; Psychological Tests ; Sodium Chloride Symporter Inhibitors/*administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Hypertension is associated with impaired cognition, but it is unclear whether this impairment is reversible. We sought to evaluate the effect of blood pressure reduction on cognition.<br><br>DESIGN: A randomized, double-blind trial.<br><br>SETTING: A single center, with assessments in subjects' domiciles.<br><br>PARTICIPANTS: Community-screened subjects more than 69 years of age who had median diastolic pressures > 99 mm Hg and systolic pressures > 159 mm Hg or diastolic > 85 mm Hg and systolic > 179 mm Hg with Mini-Mental State Examination scores of 20 to 28. Subjects had not previously received antihypertensive treatment.<br><br>INTERVENTION: Captopril 12.5 mg twice daily or bendrofluazide 2.5 mg daily for 24 weeks, preceded by a 2-week placebo phase.<br><br>MEASUREMENTS: Cognition was evaluated by a psychometric test battery comprising Immediate and Delayed Logical Memory, Paired Associates recall, Raven's Progressive Matrices, Halstead Reitan Trail Making A, and the Anomalous Sentences Repetition Test.<br><br>RESULTS: Eighty-one subjects (28 male, 53 female) were treated (41 captopril, 40 bendrofluazide). At entry, mean age was 76.1 years (range 70-84), mean blood pressure was 191 (160-230) mm Hg systolic, 101 (88-110) mm Hg diastolic, and mean MMSE score 26.1. A total of 69 subjects completed the trial. The 25th, 50th, and 75th percentiles of the difference between pretreatment and Week 24 blood pressures wer 15 mm Hg, 35 mm Hg, and 50 mm Hg (systolic) and 5 mm Hg, 10 mm Hg, and 19 mm Hg (diastolic). There were no significant differences in any psychometric test between captopril and bendrofluazide. The 19 subjects in the quartile that lowered their diastolic blood pressure most (> or = 19 mm Hg) had improved scores on Anomalous Sentences (P = .012) and Paired Associates (P = .044) compared to the 19 subjects in the least blood pressure responsive quartile (fall < or = 5 mm Hg)s.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The treatment of hypertension is not hazardous to cognitive function in older people with pre-existing cognitive impairment. Long-term adequate blood pressure control may reverse cognitive impairment associated with pre-existing hypertension.}, }
@article {pmid8618971, year = {1996}, author = {Mogelvang, C}, title = {Brow lift by flap transposition in the glabrous brow area.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {97}, number = {5}, pages = {1040-50; discussion 1051-2}, doi = {10.1097/00006534-199604001-00025}, pmid = {8618971}, issn = {0032-1052}, mesh = {Aged ; *Eyebrows ; Facial Expression ; Female ; Forehead ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Postoperative Care ; Preoperative Care ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; Surgical Flaps/*methods ; Suture Techniques ; }, abstract = {In brow lift, if a direct approach is utilized, the suture line medially is placed in a normal frontalis crease, and then the lateral part of the suture line, by lateral transfer of a small superiorly based flap, is caused to fall into a natural "laugh line" or "crow's feet" crease, three improvements result: 1. Greater control and predictability of shaping and position than with other techniques; 2. A more normal appearance, including better lateral lift and a much more inconspicuous scar than with supraciliary direct lift; 3. A longer-lasting result. In approximately 150 patients, scar appearance has been very gratifying indeed, with only 3 limited segmental scar revisions and 2 secondary midforehead elliptical excisions. It is believed that the principle exhibited in the tightening of the upper suture line by flap transfer, referred to by analogy as the worm principle, accounts for much of the improvement, especially in durability. This principle is seen as an aid in thinking through the mechanics of several other plastic surgical situations as well.}, }
@article {pmid8901169, year = {1996}, author = {Richardson, K and Webster, DS}, title = {Analogical reasoning and the nature of context: a research note.}, journal = {The British journal of educational psychology}, volume = {66 (Pt 1)}, number = {}, pages = {23-32}, doi = {10.1111/j.2044-8279.1996.tb01173.x}, pmid = {8901169}, issn = {0007-0998}, mesh = {*Attention ; Child ; Discrimination Learning ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Recall ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Problem Solving ; *Thinking ; }, abstract = {Recent theorising about children's reasoning has tended to move towards a 'contextualist' view of cognition and away from the idea of an overall, context-free, mechanism, varying in efficiency, which is the presupposition underlying traditional standardised reasoning tests. An earlier study suggesting improved reasoning performance among children on socio-cognitively meaningful versions of Raven's Matrices tended to support this shift. The main purpose of the study reported here was to observe whether a similar improvement would be found with contextually-based analogical reasoning problems as well. Ten analogy items from a standardised test were administered to 11-year-olds together with 10 structurally-equivalent knowledge-based items. The results reflected improved performance on the latter, overall, and additional analyses led to further suggestions about the nature of the 'contextual advantage' and the origins of item difficulty.}, }
@article {pmid8867407, year = {1996}, author = {Jay, SJ}, title = {A conversation with C. Everett Koop, M.D.. Interview by Stephen J. Jay.}, journal = {Indiana medicine : the journal of the Indiana State Medical Association}, volume = {89}, number = {2}, pages = {116-120}, pmid = {8867407}, issn = {0746-8288}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Advertising/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Child ; Health Education/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Humans ; Smoking/adverse effects/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; *Smoking Prevention ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid8833689, year = {1996}, author = {Thomas, P and Kearney, G and Napier, E and Ellis, E and Leuder, I and Johnson, M}, title = {Speech and language in first onset psychosis differences between people with schizophrenia, mania, and controls.}, journal = {The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science}, volume = {168}, number = {3}, pages = {337-343}, doi = {10.1192/bjp.168.3.337}, pmid = {8833689}, issn = {0007-1250}, mesh = {Bipolar Disorder/*psychology ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; *Language ; Male ; Psychotic Disorders/*psychology ; *Schizophrenia ; Severity of Illness Index ; Social Class ; *Speech ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Several studies have revealed linguistic differences between diagnostic groups. This study investigates the extent to which these differences are accounted for by factors such as chronicity, or disturbances in cognition associated with acute psychosis.<br><br>METHOD: Transcripts of interviews with patients suffering from RDC schizophrenia (n=38), mania (n=11) and controls (n=16) were examined using the Brief Syntactic Analysis (BSA). Patients were within two years of first onset of psychotic symptoms, and received tests of working memory and attention.<br><br>RESULTS: The speech of patients with schizophrenia was syntactically less complex than that of controls. Patients with schizophrenia and mania made more errors than controls. These differences were, to some extent, related to group differences in social class, working memory and attention, although significant group differences in language persisted after the effects of covariates were removed.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The study confirms the existence of differences in the speech of psychiatric patients. Low complexity appears to be a particular feature of speech in schizophrenia, even in the earliest stages of the condition. The importance of this finding is discussed in relation to two recent theories of schizophrenia: Crow's evolutionary model, and Frith's neuro-psychological model.}, }
@article {pmid8776219, year = {1996}, author = {Johnson, PC and Wagner, PD and Wilson, DF}, title = {Regulation of oxidative metabolism and blood flow in skeletal muscle. Summary report of the first ACSM Basic Science Specialty Conference, Indianapolis, IN, September 28-30, 1995.}, journal = {Medicine and science in sports and exercise}, volume = {28}, number = {3}, pages = {305-314}, doi = {10.1097/00005768-199603000-00006}, pmid = {8776219}, issn = {0195-9131}, mesh = {Endothelium, Vascular/physiology ; Energy Metabolism/*physiology ; Humans ; Lactic Acid/blood ; Microcirculation ; Muscle, Skeletal/*blood supply/*metabolism ; Muscle, Smooth/physiology ; Oxygen Consumption/*physiology ; Regional Blood Flow ; Vasodilation/physiology ; }, abstract = {The first ACSM Basic Science Specialty Conference was held in Indianapolis, September 28-30, 1995. The topic was integration among cellular metabolism, blood flow regulation, and O2 supply during exercise, principally in skeletal muscle. The structure of the meeting was uniquely designed to emphasize free discussion among the 102 registrants; thus, this unique program design does not lend itself to a conventional collection of written symposium proceedings. On the other hand, the College, editor-in-chief Peter B. Raven, and the meeting organizers felt that a summary of the meeting's major points was important to compile and distribute to members via Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise. Therefore, the organizing committee present a summary of the major issues discussed.}, }
@article {pmid8726576, year = {1996}, author = {Zorina, ZA and Smirnova, AA}, title = {[The numerousness judgement by the hooded crow of a set consisting of 12-25 elements].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {46}, number = {2}, pages = {389-392}, pmid = {8726576}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Choice Behavior/physiology ; Discrimination, Psychological/physiology ; Higher Nervous Activity/*physiology ; *Mathematics ; Photic Stimulation/methods ; }, }
@article {pmid8639154, year = {1996}, author = {Reynolds, CA and Baker, LA and Pedersen, NL}, title = {Models of spouse similarity: applications to fluid ability measured in twins and their spouses.}, journal = {Behavior genetics}, volume = {26}, number = {2}, pages = {73-88}, pmid = {8639154}, issn = {0001-8244}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; *Aptitude ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*genetics ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Models, Genetic ; Pedigree ; Phenotype ; *Social Environment ; Spouses/*psychology ; Twins/*genetics/psychology ; Twins, Dizygotic/genetics/psychology ; Twins, Monozygotic/genetics/psychology ; }, abstract = {Genetic influences have consistently been reported to be the principal explanation for resemblance among relatives for intelligence, with shared environmental effects playing a much smaller role. However, crucial to understanding the nature of environmental influences are the mechanisms of assortative mating. Phenotypic assortment, albeit widely assumed or modeled in biometrical analyses, may be less important than other assortment processes, such as social homogamy. Consequently, effects of shared environment may play a greater role than prior studies have suggested. The goal of this study was to resolve environmental and genetic influences on fluid ability based on alternative models of assortment by examining the similarity of monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic (DZ) twins and their spouses. Raven's Progressive Matrices scores were available from a population-based Swedish sample of 138 twin kinships. The effects of both social homogamy and phenotypic assortment were tested simultaneously in each of two alternate assortment models. A factor/delta path model represented social homogamy as a common factor and phenotypic assortment as a delta path, while a delta/delta path model represented both social homogamy and phenotypic assortment as delta paths. Overall, the factor/delta path model was found to be superior. Results suggested that social homogamy completely explained spouse similarity; phenotypic assortment was not significant. The results of these analyses suggest the presence of shared environmental effects among twins and their spouses, which would have been underestimated if only phenotypic modeled phenotypic assortment may have underestimated the effects of environment.}, }
@article {pmid8604259, year = {1996}, author = {Rubin, DH and Erickson, CJ and San Agustin, M and Cleary, SD and Allen, JK and Cohen, P}, title = {Cognitive and academic functioning of homeless children compared with housed children.}, journal = {Pediatrics}, volume = {97}, number = {3}, pages = {289-294}, pmid = {8604259}, issn = {0031-4005}, mesh = {Anxiety ; Child ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology/psychology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Depression ; Developmental Disabilities/diagnosis/*etiology/psychology ; Educational Status ; Ethnicity ; Female ; *Homeless Youth ; *Housing ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Mothers/psychology ; Social Class ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: During the past 10 years, the number of homeless families has increased in every region of the United States. Despite several studies of this population, there are few data regarding the cognitive functioning of these homeless children. The aim of this controlled study was to determine the effect of homelessness on cognitive and academic functioning of children aged 6 to 11 years.<br><br>METHODS: Homeless children (N = 102) and their mothers living in shelters were compared with a housed group of children (N = 178) and their mothers selected from the homeless child's classroom in New York City between August 1990 and August 1992. Groups were compared using standardized cognitive and academic performance instruments.<br><br>RESULTS: Controlling for child's age, sex, race, social class, and family status, verbal intelligence (estimated by the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test) and nonverbal intelligence (estimated by the Raven's Progressive Matrices) were not significantly different between the groups. However, academic achievement (measured by the Wide Range Achievement Test-Revised [WRAT-R]) was significantly poorer in reading, (75% of homeless children compared with 48% of housed children were below grade level), spelling (72.4% of the homeless children compared with 50% of housed children were below grade level) and arthmetic (53.6% of homeless children compared with 21.7% of housed children were below grade level). These dramatic differences in academic performance did not appear to be related to the mother's report of the number of days missed from school or the length of homelessness, but were associated with: (1) the number of school changes for the WRAT-R reading subtest and (2) grade repetition for the WRAT-R spelling subtest.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: These data demonstrae no difference in cognitive functioning between homeless and housed children. However, homeless children performed significantly more poorly than housed children in tests of academic performance.}, }
@article {pmid8678114, year = {1996}, author = {Corballis, MC and Lee, K and McManus, IC and Crow, TJ}, title = {Location of the handedness gene on the X and Y chromosomes.}, journal = {American journal of medical genetics}, volume = {67}, number = {1}, pages = {50-52}, doi = {10.1002/(SICI)1096-8628(19960216)67:1&lt;50::AID-AJMG8&gt;3.0.CO;2-W}, pmid = {8678114}, issn = {0148-7299}, mesh = {Chromosome Mapping ; Female ; Functional Laterality/*genetics ; Gene Frequency ; Genetic Linkage ; Humans ; Male ; *X Chromosome ; *Y Chromosome ; }, abstract = {Accumulated data from five handedness surveys show that concordance for sex is slightly but reliably higher among siblings of the same handedness than among those of opposite handedness. This is consistent with Crow's theory that the genetic locus for handedness is in an X-Y homologous region of the sex chromosomes. The small size of the effect is predicted from genetic models in which there is a substantial random component underlying phenotypic left handedness. The findings are relevant to the putative role of cerebral asymmetry in the aetiology of psychosis.}, }
@article {pmid8704456, year = {1996}, author = {Pomfret, IJ}, title = {Catheters: design, selection and management.}, journal = {British journal of nursing (Mark Allen Publishing)}, volume = {5}, number = {4}, pages = {245-251}, doi = {10.12968/bjon.1996.5.4.245}, pmid = {8704456}, issn = {0966-0461}, mesh = {Catheters, Indwelling/classification/*standards/supply &amp; distribution ; Equipment Design ; Humans ; Urinary Catheterization/*instrumentation/*nursing ; }, abstract = {Urinary catheterization is a common procedure that is performed on 12% of hospital patients (Crow et al, 1996) and 4% of community patients (Getliffe, 1990). When considering catheterization as a method of care, many decisions need to be made in order to select the optimum equipment and provide effective catheter care. This includes selecting the type of catheterization that needs to be performed, i.e. intermittent or indwelling, and choosing the right catheter material, size and balloon infill volume. The type and design features of the urinary drainage and suspensory system have a direct effect on individual patient comfort, dignity and life. Aspects of catheter care that need to be considered include: meatal hygiene, fluid intake, bladder washouts, constipation, clamping catheters, collecting specimens of urine, fixation of catheters and sexuality.}, }
@article {pmid8597578, year = {1996}, author = {Duncker, BP and Gauthier, SY and Davies, PL}, title = {Evidence for a proprotein intermediate during maturation of type II antifreeze protein in sea raven, Hemitripterus americanus.}, journal = {Biochimica et biophysica acta}, volume = {1292}, number = {2}, pages = {312-316}, doi = {10.1016/0167-4838(95)00212-x}, pmid = {8597578}, issn = {0006-3002}, mesh = {Animals ; Antifreeze Proteins ; Cell Line ; Chromatography, Gel ; Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel ; Fishes/*metabolism ; Freezing ; Glycoproteins/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification/*metabolism ; Liver/*metabolism ; Mass Spectrometry ; Protein Biosynthesis ; Protein Precursors/chemistry/*isolation &amp; purification/*metabolism ; Recombinant Proteins/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification/metabolism ; Spodoptera ; Transfection ; }, abstract = {The circulating Type II antifreeze protein (AFP) in sea raven is 129 amino acids (aa) long (14 kDa) and is derived from an initial 163 aa translation product that is synthesised in the liver. Signal peptide cleavage algorithms, as well as transgenic expression studies in fall armyworm cells, predict the formation of a 146 aa (16 kDa) proprotein intermediate. A protein of this size that cross-reacted with anti-sea raven AFP antibody was detected in sea raven serum using phosphate/urea SDS-PAGE, and was purified by size-exclusion chromatography and reverse-phase HPLC. N-terminal sequencing and mass spectrometry identified the protein as the predicted proAFP, and immunoblotting suggested that it is the predominant form present in liver. These results are consistent with production and storage of a proAFP intermediate in the liver, and its subsequent processing to mature AFP during or soon after its release into the circulation.}, }
@article {pmid8851977, year = {1996}, author = {Gaasterland, T and Sensen, CW}, title = {MAGPIE: automated genome interpretation.}, journal = {Trends in genetics : TIG}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {76-78}, doi = {10.1016/0168-9525(96)81406-5}, pmid = {8851977}, issn = {0168-9525}, mesh = {*Databases, Factual ; Genome ; *Software ; }, }
@article {pmid8839295, year = {1996}, author = {Kumari, V and Corr, PJ}, title = {Menstrual cycle, arousal-induction, and intelligence test performance.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {78}, number = {1}, pages = {51-58}, doi = {10.2466/pr0.1996.78.1.51}, pmid = {8839295}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {Adult ; Aptitude ; *Arousal ; Female ; Humans ; India ; *Intelligence ; Menstrual Cycle/*psychology ; Stress, Psychological/complications ; Time Perception ; }, abstract = {Regularly menstruating students (aged 19 to 25 yr.) were tested in the morning under high and low arousal-induction conditions (with time-pressure instructions vs without time-pressure instructions) during either midcycle (n = 16 or menstruation phase (n = 16) to study the interactive effects of menstrual phases and time-pressure stress-induced arousal on intelligence test scores on Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices and Hundal's General Mental Ability Test. A crossover interactive effect of menstrual phase and stress-induced arousal was found on performance of the Hundal test, suggesting that performance of subjects who were tested during the midcycle phase (putatively High Basal Arousal) was impaired under the time-pressure instructions condition (High-induced Arousal) as compared to performance under the without time-pressure instructions condition (Low-induced Arousal), with the reverse pattern of effects being true for subjects who were tested during the menstruation phase. Scores on Hundal's test conform to the Yerkes-Dodson (1908) law which relates arousal to task performance and suggests that the menstrual cycle and performance on the intelligence test was arousal-based. No effects, however, were observed for Raven's Matrices, raising the possibility that task characteristics may mediate the relationship between arousal and performance.}, }
@article {pmid8627494, year = {1996}, author = {Massey, JG and Graczyk, TK and Cranfield, MR}, title = {Characteristics of naturally acquired Plasmodium relictum capistranoae infections in naive Hawaiian crows (Corvus hawaiiensis) in Hawaii.}, journal = {The Journal of parasitology}, volume = {82}, number = {1}, pages = {182-185}, pmid = {8627494}, issn = {0022-3395}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Protozoan/blood ; Birds/*blood ; Blood Cell Count/veterinary ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay/veterinary ; Hawaii ; Immunoglobulin G/blood ; Malaria, Avian/*blood/diagnosis/immunology ; Parasitemia/veterinary ; Plasmodium/immunology ; Reference Values ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; }, abstract = {Indigenous to Hawaii, the Hawaiian crow (Corvus hawaiiensis) is the world's most severely endangered species with only 3 reproductively active pairs remaining in the wild. Seven captive-reared, avian malaria-naive C. hawaiiensis were exposed in an outdoor aviary and hematologically and serologically monitored for 9 wk. Three birds showed Plasmodium relictum capistranoae parasitemia (6.35%, 2.15%, and 0.60%). All birds were seroconverted for malaria on week 7 as determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Malaria IgG levels of exposed parasitemic birds did not differ from those of exposed nonparasitemic C. hawaiiensis and were not significantly correlated with the level of parasitemia. Four of 9 hematological parameters, e.g., white blood cell count (WBC), relative and absolute lymphocytosis, and total solids (TS), showed significant increases related to ELISA-determined malarial infection. The sensitivity, specificity, and the positive predictive values of these 4 parameters for malarial infections in C. hawaiiensis were higher than 66%, with the WBC and TS sensitivity reaching 100%. The reference range of 9 hematological parameters was established based on uninfected, clinically healthy C. hawaiiensis. Seven birds were successfully treated and released, increasing the total wild C. hawaiiensis world population by approximately 50%.}, }
@article {pmid8561165, year = {1996}, author = {Prince, MJ}, title = {Predicting the onset of Alzheimer's disease using Bayes' theorem.}, journal = {American journal of epidemiology}, volume = {143}, number = {3}, pages = {301-308}, doi = {10.1093/oxfordjournals.aje.a008742}, pmid = {8561165}, issn = {0002-9262}, support = {//Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Aged ; Alzheimer Disease/blood/*diagnosis ; Apolipoprotein E4 ; Apolipoproteins E/blood ; Bayes Theorem ; Blood Pressure ; Case-Control Studies ; Cerebrovascular Disorders/mortality/prevention &amp; control ; Cognition Disorders/prevention &amp; control ; *Epidemiologic Methods ; False Negative Reactions ; Female ; Humans ; Hypertension/therapy ; Likelihood Functions ; Male ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Single-Blind Method ; }, abstract = {Bayes' theorem describes the effect of new information (e.g., a test result) on the probability of an outcome (e.g., a disease). Likelihood ratios for separate tests can be combined to assess the joint effect of their results on disease probability. This approach has been used to develop a test package for Alzheimer's disease that consists of some simple cognitive tests (Paired Associate Learning Test, Trailmaking Test, and Raven's Progressive Matrices) combined with age and family history of dementia. A total of 1,454 subjects who had been recruited into the Medical Research Council Elderly Hypertension Trial between 1983 and 1985 completed cognitive tests at entry to the trial (when they were without signs of dementia) and 1 month later. Their dementia status was ascertained in 1990-1991. The test package identified 52% of Alzheimer's disease cases with a 9% false-positive rate or 90% of Alzheimer's disease cases with a 29% false-positive rate. The author proposes the use of a similar test package in conjunction with a test for apolipoprotein E e4 status, which is a powerful risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer's disease, as a likelihood ratio approach to the prospective identification of Alzheimer's disease cases. This approach could be followed by ethically sound trials of new therapeutic agents for subjects who have a high probability of developing Alzheimer's disease.}, }
@article {pmid8531285, year = {1996}, author = {Hargarten, SW and Karlson, TA and O'Brien, M and Hancock, J and Quebbeman, E}, title = {Characteristics of firearms involved in fatalities.}, journal = {JAMA}, volume = {275}, number = {1}, pages = {42-45}, pmid = {8531285}, issn = {0098-7484}, mesh = {Data Collection ; *Firearms/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Homicide/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Humans ; Suicide/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Wisconsin/epidemiology ; Wounds, Gunshot/*mortality ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To document the types of firearms associated with firearm fatalities, and to determine the availability of information on firearm characteristics in existing data sources.<br><br>DESIGN: Review of police, medical examiner, and crime laboratory records for all firearm homicides and review of medical examiner records for all suicides and unintentional and undetermined firearm fatalities.<br><br>SETTING: City of Milwaukee, Wis, from 1990 through 1994.<br><br>POPULATION: A total of 175 firearm suicides and 524 firearm homicides.<br><br>MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Source of data; circumstances and means of death; host demographic characteristics; firearm make, model, caliber, barrel length, and serial number.<br><br>RESULTS: Handguns accounted for 468 (89%) of 524 firearm homicides and 124 (71%) of 175 firearm suicides. Handguns of .25 caliber accounted for 14% (n = 63) of 438 firearm homicides and 12% (n = 15) of all firearm suicides in which caliber was known. The Raven MP-25 was the single most commonly identified firearm and accounted for 10% (n = 15) of 153 handgun homicide cases and 7% (n = 7) of the 76 suicide cases in which the manufacturer of the firearm was identified. From all data sources combined, information on firearm type was available in 681 (97%) of 699 cases, caliber/gauge in 636 cases (91%), manufacturer/model in 309 cases (44%), and serial number in 276 cases (40%).<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Inexpensive, short-barreled .25-caliber handguns were the most common weapon type associated with firearm homicides and suicides in Milwaukee during 1990 through 1994. Product-specific information is a crucial part of planning appropriate injury countermeasures for firearms. In combination, police, crime laboratory, and medical examiner data can supply this information with modest changes in data collection procedures.}, }
@article {pmid11363373, year = {1996}, author = {Smart, T}, title = {HIV suppressors found in cells.}, journal = {GMHC treatment issues : the Gay Men's Health Crisis newsletter of experimental AIDS therapies}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {10-12}, pmid = {11363373}, issn = {1077-1824}, mesh = {CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/*immunology ; Cells, Cultured ; Chemokines/pharmacology ; HIV/drug effects ; HIV Infections/immunology/*virology ; Humans ; Interleukin-16 ; *Lymphokines/pharmacology ; }, }
@article {pmid9319410, year = {1996}, author = {Vijayan, M and Mommsen, T and Gl&amp;Eacute;Met, H and Moon, T}, title = {Metabolic effects of cortisol treatment in a marine teleost, the sea raven.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {199}, number = {Pt 7}, pages = {1509-1514}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.199.7.1509}, pmid = {9319410}, issn = {1477-9145}, abstract = {Sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus) given intraperitoneal implants of coconut oil containing cortisol (50 mg kg-1) and sampled 5 days later had plasma cortisol, glucose and urea concentrations higher than in a sham-implanted group. No differences in plasma ammonia, free amino acid or fatty acid concentrations were apparent between the cortisol- and sham-treated groups. There was no change in hepatic glycogen content, whereas glutamine synthetase, allantoicase, arginase, aspartate aminotransferase, tyrosine aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, glutamate dehydrogenase, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase and 3-hydroxyacyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase activities were higher in the cortisol-treated fish liver compared with the sham-implanted fish. On the basis of these general increases in enzyme activities, our results suggest that cortisol stimulates nitrogen metabolism in the sea raven. Amino acid catabolism may be a major source of substrate for gluconeogenesis and/or oxidation, while fatty acid mobilization may provide the fuel for endogenous use by the liver in cortisol-treated sea raven. These results further support the hypothesis that cortisol plays a role in the regulation of glucose production in stressed fish.}, }
@article {pmid9317775, year = {1996}, author = {Tobalske, B and Dial, K}, title = {Flight kinematics of black-billed magpies and pigeons over a wide range of speeds.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {199}, number = {Pt 2}, pages = {263-280}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.199.2.263}, pmid = {9317775}, issn = {1477-9145}, abstract = {To investigate how birds that differ in morphology change their wing and body movements while flying at a range of speeds, we analyzed high-speed (60 Hz) video tapes of black-billed magpies (Pica pica) flying at speeds of 4-14 m s-1 and pigeons (Columba livia) flying at 6-20 m s-1 in a wind-tunnel. Pigeons had higher wing loading and higher-aspect-ratio wings compared with magpies. Both species alternated phases of steady-speed flight with phases of acceleration and deceleration, particularly at intermediate flight speeds. The birds modulated their wingbeat kinematics among these phases and frequently exhibited non-flapping phases while decelerating. Such modulation in kinematics during forward flight is typical of magpies but not of pigeons in the wild. The behavior of the pigeons may have been a response to the reduced power costs for flight in the closed wind-tunnel relative to those for free flight at similar speeds. During steady-speed flight, wingbeat frequency did not change appreciably with increasing flight speed. Body angle relative to the horizontal, the stroke-plane angles of the wingtip and wrist relative to the horizontal and the angle describing tail spread at mid-downstroke all decreased with increasing flight speed, thereby illustrating a shift in the dominant function of wing flapping from weight support at slow speeds to positive thrust at fast speeds. Using wingbeat kinematics to infer lift production, it appeared that magpies used a vortex-ring gait during steady-speed flight at all speeds whereas pigeons used a vortex-ring gait at 6 and 8 m s-1, a transitional vortex-ring gait at 10 m s-1, and a continuous-vortex gait at faster speeds. Both species used a vortex-ring gait for acceleration and a continuous-vortex gait or a non-flapping phase for deceleration during flight at intermediate wind-tunnel speeds. Pigeons progressively flexed their wings during glides as flight speed increased but never performed bounds. Wingspan during glides in magpies did not vary with flight speed, but the percentage of bounds among non-flapping intervals increased with speed from 10 to 14 m s-1. The use of non-flapping wing postures seemed to be related to the gaits used during flapping and to the aspect ratio of the wings. We develop an 'adverse-scaling' hypothesis in which it is proposed that the ability to reduce metabolic and mechanical power output using flap-bounding flight at fast flight speeds is scaled negatively with body mass. This represents an alternative to the 'fixed-gear' hypothesis previously suggested by other authors to explain the use of intermittent flight in birds. Future comparative studies in the field would be worthwhile, especially if instantaneous flight speeds and within-wingbeat kinematics were documented; new studies in the laboratory should involve simultaneous recording of wing kinematics and aerodynamic forces on the wing.}, }
@article {pmid9317563, year = {1996}, author = {Sherry, D and Duff, S}, title = {Behavioural and neural bases of orientation in food-storing birds.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {199}, number = {Pt 1}, pages = {165-172}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.199.1.165}, pmid = {9317563}, issn = {1477-9145}, abstract = {Food-storing birds retrieve hoarded food by remembering the locations of large numbers of spatially dispersed caches. The basic patterns of spatial orientation in these animals have been established in research on two major groups of food-storing birds, chickadees and tits (Paridae), and jays and nutcrackers (Corvidae). Experiments using displacement of landmark arrays show that food-storing birds rely on visual information from nearby landmarks to locate concealed caches. The appearance of the cache sites themselves seems to be relatively unimportant in cache retrieval, perhaps because local features are subject to change during the lifetime of a cache. Under some conditions, food-storing birds use sun-compass information to orient their search for caches, but appear to integrate sun-compass information with landmark information. Lesions of the avian hippocampus disrupt cache retrieval and other spatial tasks in food-storing birds without disrupting the formation of simple associations. Comparative studies show that food-storing birds possess a hippocampus larger than that of non-food-storing birds, probably as an evolutionary consequence of their dependence on spatial orientation for cache retrieval. Experience with cache retrieval plays a role in the development of increased hippocampal size, and there are indications of seasonal variation in hippocampal size in food-storing species.}, }
@article {pmid8934717, year = {1996}, author = {Glassman, DM and Crow, RM}, title = {Standardization model for describing the extent of burn injury to human remains.}, journal = {Journal of forensic sciences}, volume = {41}, number = {1}, pages = {152-154}, pmid = {8934717}, issn = {0022-1198}, mesh = {Burns/*classification/pathology ; Forensic Anthropology/*methods ; Humans ; }, abstract = {This paper provides a model for standardizing descriptions of the extent of burn injury to human bodies consumed in fire. Its intent is to simplify and make comparable case reports and legal descriptions by medical examiners, pathologists, crime scene investigators, forensic odontologists, forensic anthropologists, fire fighters, paramedics, and others responsible for recovery, analysis, or identification of burn victims. The Crow-Glassman scale (CGS) is divided into five levels depicting increasing destruction to the body relative to burn injury. Each level relates to a unique set of circumstances that may affect on the recovery procedure, analysis strategy for identification, and choice of personnel most suited for making identifications.}, }
@article {pmid8920326, year = {1996}, author = {Kulig, J and Thorpe, K}, title = {Teaching and learning needs of culturally diverse post-R.N. students.}, journal = {The Canadian journal of nursing research = Revue canadienne de recherche en sciences infirmieres}, volume = {28}, number = {2}, pages = {119-123}, pmid = {8920326}, issn = {0844-5621}, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological ; Adult ; *Cultural Diversity ; Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate/*organization &amp; administration ; Education, Professional, Retraining/*organization &amp; administration ; Female ; Humans ; Learning ; Mentors ; Social Support ; Students, Nursing/*psychology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {Despite the multicultural nature of our country, Canadian schools of nursing have generally attracted white middle-class females. The literature has identified many of the difficulties culturally diverse students experience in coping with and completing their program. The reasons noted for these difficulties include differences in learning styles, with culturally diverse students preferring visual learning (Crow, 1993; More, 1989); differences in language aptitude, particularly for those students whose first language is not English (Bowker, 1992; Harrison, 1992; Phillips &amp; Hartley, 1990); differences in communication style (Wax &amp; Thomas, 1961); lack of role models and social support within their cultural group (Bowker, 1992; Edwards, Smith, &amp; French, 1989; Sedlacek, 1983); and a lack of understanding among faculty and other students regarding their lifestyles, backgrounds, and belief systems (Abu-Saad, Kaysar-Jones, &amp; Gutierrez, 1981; Crow, 1993; Harrison, 1992).}, }
@article {pmid8905148, year = {1996}, author = {Gaasterland, T and Sensen, CW}, title = {Fully automated genome analysis that reflects user needs and preferences. A detailed introduction to the MAGPIE system architecture.}, journal = {Biochimie}, volume = {78}, number = {5}, pages = {302-310}, doi = {10.1016/0300-9084(96)84761-4}, pmid = {8905148}, issn = {0300-9084}, mesh = {Automation ; Computational Biology/*methods ; Computer Communication Networks ; DNA, Bacterial/*genetics ; Sequence Alignment ; Sequence Analysis/*methods ; Sequence Homology, Amino Acid ; Sequence Homology, Nucleic Acid ; *Software ; }, abstract = {A system called MAGPIE (Multipurpose Automated Genome Project Investigation Environment) has been designed and implemented to meet the challenges of automated whole genome analysis. The system initiates large numbers of remote and local transactions, each depending on evolving criteria and on changing remote and local conditions. Transactions are requested from different types of remote and local resources. The remote request load is fairly balanced with other community demands on server resources. Local decision modules monitor and obey user preferences and combine evidence from multiple sources to formulate credible hypotheses about sequence function. Consistency checks from multiple types of data are integrated into the ongoing local analysis. The system performs reliably on local UNIX workstations and communicates with remote resources through standard networking protocols.}, }
@article {pmid8863002, year = {1996}, author = {Mohr, F and Hubmann, W and Cohen, R and Bender, W and Haslacher, C and Hönicke, S and Schlenker, R and Wahlheim, C and Werther, P}, title = {Neurological soft signs in schizophrenia: assessment and correlates.}, journal = {European archives of psychiatry and clinical neuroscience}, volume = {246}, number = {5}, pages = {240-248}, pmid = {8863002}, issn = {0940-1334}, mesh = {Adult ; Alcoholism/physiopathology/psychology ; Antipsychotic Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Chronic Disease ; Evaluation Studies as Topic ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Nervous System/*physiopathology ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychomotor Performance ; Reproducibility of Results ; Schizophrenia/diagnostic imaging/drug therapy/*physiopathology ; Schizophrenic Psychology ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {A German version of the Neurological Evaluation Scale (NES) was administered to 143 schizophrenic patients, 45 of them being severly chronic and disabled. Seventy-eight alcohol-dependent inpatients and 57 healthy volunteers were tested as control groups. Neurological soft signs (NSS) were rated with convincing agreement. Schizophrenic patients are more impaired on all scales than healthy controls. The chronic, severly disabled schizophrenic patients are more impaired compared with the main group of schizophrenic patients and both control groups. A significant difference between the main group of schizophrenic patients and alcohol-dependent patients was only found for the subscale "Motor Coordination". Compared with healthy controls the alcohol-dependent patients show a higher NES total score. The NES total score was related to the relative width of the third ventricle. Total score and subscales were correlated consistently with the level of cognitive functioning as measured by the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices and various neuropsychological tests presumably sensitive to dysfunctions of the prefrontal cortex. The NSS were related to positive as well as to negative symptoms, the correlations with negative symptoms being confined to items of "Cognitive Disorganization". This close association of psychomotor and cognitive dysfunctions may be seen as related to the frequently discussed dysfunctions of the prefrontal cortex or the neurointegrative deficit postulated by Meehl.}, }
@article {pmid8680849, year = {1996}, author = {Basil, JA and Kamil, AC and Balda, RP and Fite, KV}, title = {Differences in hippocampal volume among food storing corvids.}, journal = {Brain, behavior and evolution}, volume = {47}, number = {3}, pages = {156-164}, doi = {10.1159/000113235}, pmid = {8680849}, issn = {0006-8977}, mesh = {Animals ; Appetitive Behavior/*physiology ; *Biological Evolution ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Body Weight/physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Hippocampus/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; Organ Size/physiology ; Orientation/*physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The hippocampal complex (hippocampus and parahippocampalis) is known to play a role in spatial memory in birds and is known to be larger in food-storing versus non-storing birds. In the present study, we investigated the relative volume of the hippocampal complex in four food-storing corvids: gray-breasted jays (Aphelocoma ultramarina), scrub jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens), pinyon jays (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus), and Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana). The results show that Clark's nutcrackers have a larger hippocampal complex, relative to both body and total brain size, than the other three species. Clark's nutcrackers rely more extensively on stored food in the wild than the other three species. Clark's nutcrackers also perform better during cache recovery and operant tests of spatial memory than scrub jays. Thus, greater hippocampal volume is associated with better performance in laboratory tests of spatial memory and with stronger dependence on food stores in the wild.}, }
@article {pmid8647412, year = {1996}, author = {Startseva, EA and El'chinova, GI and Rassanov, VP and Moshkina, IS and Kadoshnikova, MIu and Ginter, EK}, title = {[Genetic-demographic characteristics of highland Mari].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {32}, number = {1}, pages = {110-113}, pmid = {8647412}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Altitude ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Demography ; Female ; Gene Frequency ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Russia/ethnology ; Sexual Maturation ; }, abstract = {Genetic and demographic characteristics of the population of the Gornomariiskii raion, Marii El Republic, were estimated. The length of generation was 28.16 +/- 0.45 years, the average sibship size was 2.17, Crow index was 0.687, and its components were the following: Im = 0.114 and I(f) = 0.515. the position of the population of highland Mari among other populations studied in the space of genetic and demographic characteristics is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid8589739, year = {1996}, author = {Duncker, BP and Hermans, JA and Davies, PL and Walker, VK}, title = {Expression of a cystine-rich fish antifreeze in transgenic Drosophila melanogaster.}, journal = {Transgenic research}, volume = {5}, number = {1}, pages = {49-55}, pmid = {8589739}, issn = {0962-8819}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Animals, Genetically Modified ; *Antifreeze Proteins, Type II ; Base Sequence ; Carrier Proteins/*biosynthesis/chemistry/*genetics ; Crystallization ; Drosophila melanogaster/*genetics ; Female ; Hemolymph/chemistry/metabolism ; Ice ; Male ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Protein Precursors/biosynthesis/genetics ; }, abstract = {We have used Drosophila melanogaster as a model system for the transgenic expression of cystine-rich Type II antifreeze protein (AFP) from sea raven. This protein was synthesized and secreted into fly haemolymph where it migrated as a larger species (16 kDa) than the mature form of the protein (14 kDa) as judged by immunoblotting. Drosophila-produced Type II AFP demonstrated antifreeze activity both in terms of thermal hysteresis (0.13 degree C) and inhibition of ice recrystallization. Recombinant AFP was purified and N-terminal sequencing revealed a 17 aa extension that began at the predicted signal peptide cleavage point. The expression of all three AFP types in transgenic Drosophila has now been achieved. We conclude that the globular Type II and Type III AFPs are better choices for antifreeze transfer to other organisms than is the more widely used linear Type I AFP.}, }
@article {pmid8618869, year = {1995}, author = {Edwards, SV and Wakeland, EK and Potts, WK}, title = {Contrasting histories of avian and mammalian Mhc genes revealed by class II B sequences from songbirds.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {92}, number = {26}, pages = {12200-12204}, pmid = {8618869}, issn = {0027-8424}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Base Sequence ; *Biological Evolution ; Birds/*genetics/immunology ; DNA Primers ; *Genes, MHC Class II ; Histocompatibility Antigens Class II/chemistry/*genetics ; *Major Histocompatibility Complex ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/methods ; Protein Sorting Signals/genetics ; Protein Structure, Secondary ; Sequence Homology, Amino Acid ; Sequence Homology, Nucleic Acid ; Species Specificity ; Spleen/immunology ; }, abstract = {To explore the evolutionary dynamics of genes in the major histocompatibility complex (Mhc) in nonmammalian vertebrates, we have amplified complete sequences of the polymorphic second (beta1) and third (beta2) exons of class II beta chain genes of songbirds. The pattern of nucleotide substitution in the antigen-binding site of sequences cloned from three behaviorally and phylogenetically divergent songbirds [scrub jays Aphelocoma coerulescens), red-winged blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus), and house finches (Carpodacus mexicanus) reveals that class II B genes of songbirds are subject to the same types of diversifying forces as those observed at mammalian class II loci. By contrast, the tree of avian class II B genes reveals that orthologous relationships have not been retained as in placental mammals and that, unlike class II genes in mammals, genes in songbirds and chickens have had very recent common ancestors within their respective groups. Thus, whereas the selective forces diversifying class II B genes of birds are likely similar to those in mammals, their long-term evolutionary dynamics appear to be characterized by much higher rates of concerted evolution.}, }
@article {pmid8586934, year = {1995}, author = {Yoshida, H and Takano, T and Tsujino, S and Higashihara, M and Nozaka, K and Kaneko, Y and Watanabe, T and Kurokawa, K}, title = {[Fatal case of Crow-Fukase syndrome with kidney failure, acute consciousness disorder and thrombocytopenia].}, journal = {Nihon Naika Gakkai zasshi. The Journal of the Japanese Society of Internal Medicine}, volume = {84}, number = {12}, pages = {2078-2079}, pmid = {8586934}, issn = {0021-5384}, mesh = {Acute Disease ; Anti-Inflammatory Agents/administration &amp; dosage ; Consciousness Disorders/*etiology ; Fatal Outcome ; Glomerulonephritis, Membranous/drug therapy ; Humans ; Male ; Methylprednisolone/administration &amp; dosage ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications/drug therapy ; Prednisolone/administration &amp; dosage ; Thrombocytopenia/*etiology ; }, }
@article {pmid8729767, year = {1995}, author = {Wigg, CM and Duro, LA}, title = {[Longitudinal psychological study in myotonic dystrophy].}, journal = {Arquivos de neuro-psiquiatria}, volume = {53}, number = {4}, pages = {749-754}, doi = {10.1590/s0004-282x1995000500006}, pmid = {8729767}, issn = {0004-282X}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Child ; Electrophysiology ; Female ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Myotonic Dystrophy/physiopathology/*psychology ; *Psychological Tests ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {The authors studied in two occasions a group of 12 patients with myotonic dystrophy in a mean interval of three years and a half between the examinations. The neuro-psychological battery included the following tests: Raven's progressive matrices (coloured and general scales), Wechsler children intelligence scale (WISC), Kohs' blocks and Piaget-Head. 50% of the patients had better scores on the second examination on RCPM, 81.89% on WISC-digit span, 63.67% on WISC-numbers, 44.44% on Piaget-Head 2 and 60% on Kohs' blocks. However, on Piaget-Head 1-3, the majority had worse results (87.56%) with statistical significative difference (p < 0.05). Though the scores from Kohs' blocks were better in 60% of the patients with p < 0.05, we have to consider that 60% had 0 point on first examination being their scores a little better on second one. This is enough to result on statistical significative difference, however, very low if compared to normal subjects.}, }
@article {pmid8721199, year = {1995}, author = {Mauri, MC and Bravin, S and Fabiano, L and Invernizzi, G}, title = {[Effects of psychopathological components of the onset of Alzheimer's disease].}, journal = {Minerva psichiatrica}, volume = {36}, number = {4}, pages = {203-207}, pmid = {8721199}, issn = {0374-9320}, mesh = {Activities of Daily Living ; Age of Onset ; Aged ; Alzheimer Disease/diagnosis/physiopathology/*psychology ; Brain/physiopathology ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis ; Depressive Disorder/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {A particular importance can assume, especially during the onset of Alzheimer's disease, the psychiatric symptomatology characterized by depressive mood, auto and hetero-aggressive behaviour, psychomotor agitation, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, delusions and hallucinations, these pictures showing a prevalence of 30%. 13 patients affected by Alzheimer's disease at the onset, of both sexes, age ranging from 45 to 80 years, were included in the study. The clinical picture was assessed by BDS, GDS, ICS, IADL, BIMC, MMSE, ADAS, a neuropsychological test battery such as Token Test, verbal fluency test for semantic categories, prose memory test, scribble discrimination test, numeric matrix test, Raven test, judgement of line orientation. A computerized test battery by NYU Computerized Test Battery have been also administered. The psychiatric clinical picture has been evaluated by HRS-D and the non cognitive session of ADAS. There was a positive significant (r = 0.85, p = 0.0004) correlation between depressive symptomatology evaluated at HRS-D and deterioration of daily living activities evaluated at the Blessed Dementia Scale (BDS). On the other hand the deterioration of cognitive capacities was not significantly correlated with a worsening of behavioural aspects. In conclusion seems to have a particular importance, at the onset of Alzheimer's disease, the psychopathological component that often seems to be the principal component in the determination of the early deterioration of daily living and behaviour or patients.}, }
@article {pmid8684937, year = {1995}, author = {Newman, J and Rosenbach, JH and Burns, KL and Latimer, BC and Matocha, HR and Vogt, ER}, title = {An experimental test of "the mozart effect": does listening to his music improve spatial ability?.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {81}, number = {3 Pt 2}, pages = {1379-1387}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1995.81.3f.1379}, pmid = {8684937}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Auditory Perception ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Music ; *Problem Solving ; Relaxation Therapy ; }, abstract = {This experiment was designed as a test of the 1993 findings of Rauscher, Shaw, and Ky who reported a positive effect of listening to classical music on spatial reasoning. Present results do not demonstrate the "Mozart effect." In our study, 114 students were pretested on items from the Raven's Progressive Matrices--Advanced Form, then instructed to listen to either 8 min. of Mozart's music, relaxation instructions, or silence. Then subjects were posttested on an equivalent set of Raven's items. The subjects were also asked to provide information about their musical background and preferences. All instructions and treatments were audiotaped and played to individual subjects through earphones in the university language laboratory, ensuring standardization of procedures. Subjects in all 3 treatment groups showed a practice effect, but this improvement in Raven's scores was not dependent on the type of treatment received. There were no differences in Raven's scores among groups before or after treatment so our results do not confirm the prior ones. There was no evidence that the brief music had a different effect on subsequent problem solving according to listeners' musical background and training.}, }
@article {pmid8564010, year = {1995}, author = {Edwards, SV and Grahn, M and Potts, WK}, title = {Dynamics of Mhc evolution in birds and crocodilians: amplification of class II genes with degenerate primers.}, journal = {Molecular ecology}, volume = {4}, number = {6}, pages = {719-729}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-294x.1995.tb00272.x}, pmid = {8564010}, issn = {0962-1083}, mesh = {Alligators and Crocodiles/*genetics/*immunology ; Animals ; Base Sequence ; *Biological Evolution ; Birds/*genetics/*immunology ; Cloning, Molecular ; Conserved Sequence ; DNA Primers/genetics ; Ecosystem ; Gene Amplification ; *Genes, MHC Class II ; Genetic Variation ; *Major Histocompatibility Complex ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Sequence Homology, Nucleic Acid ; }, abstract = {Genes of the major histocompatibility complex (Mhc) are the most polymorphic functional loci in mammalian populations, but little is known of Mhc variability in natural populations of nonmammalian vertebrates. To help extend such studies to birds and relatives, we present a pair of degenerate primers that amplify polymorphic segments of one chain (the beta chain) of the class II genes from the major histocompatibility complex (Mhc) of archosaurs (birds+crocodilians). The primers target two conserved regions lying within portions of the antigen-binding site (ABS) encoded by the second exon and amplify multiple genes from both genomic DNA and cDNA. The pattern of nucleotide substitution in ABS codons of 51 sequences amplified and cloned from five species of passerine birds and an alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) indicates that archosaurian class II beta genes are subject to selective forces similar to those operating in mammalian populations. Hybridization of a genomic clone generated by the primers revealed highly polymorphic bands in a sample of Florida scrub jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens coerulescens). Because the primers amplify only part of the ABS from multiple class II genes, they will be useful primarily for generating species specific clones, thereby providing a critical inroad to more detailed structural and evolutionary studies.}, }
@article {pmid8522605, year = {1995}, author = {Karpova, TS and Tatchell, K and Cooper, JA}, title = {Actin filaments in yeast are unstable in the absence of capping protein or fimbrin.}, journal = {The Journal of cell biology}, volume = {131}, number = {6 Pt 1}, pages = {1483-1493}, pmid = {8522605}, issn = {0021-9525}, support = {GM 47337/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; GM 47789/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Actins/genetics/*metabolism/ultrastructure ; Alleles ; Animals ; Carrier Proteins/*physiology ; *Cytoskeletal Proteins ; Dictyostelium/physiology ; Fungal Proteins/physiology ; Membrane Glycoproteins/*physiology ; *Membrane Proteins ; *Microfilament Proteins ; Mutation/physiology ; Plasmids ; Protein Conformation ; Saccharomyces cerevisiae/chemistry/*physiology ; *Saccharomyces cerevisiae Proteins ; }, abstract = {Many actin-binding proteins affect filament assembly in vitro and localize with actin in vivo, but how their molecular actions contribute to filament assembly in vivo is not understood well. We report here that capping protein (CP) and fimbrin are both important for actin filament assembly in vivo in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, based on finding decreased actin filament assembly in CP and fimbrin mutants. We have also identified mutations in actin that enhance the CP phenotype and find that those mutants also have decreased actin filament assembly in vivo. In vitro, actin purified from some of these mutants is defective in polymerization or binding fimbrin. These findings support the conclusion that CP acts to stabilize actin filaments in vivo. This conclusion is particularly remarkable because it is the opposite of the conclusion drawn from recent studies in Dictyostelium (Hug, C., P.Y. Jay, I. Reddy, J.G. McNally, P.C. Bridgman, E.L. Elson, and J.A. Cooper. 1995. Cell. 81:591-600). In addition, we find that the unpolymerized pool of actin in yeast is very small relative to that found in higher cells, which suggests that actin filament assembly is less dynamic in yeast than higher cells.}, }
@article {pmid7480276, year = {1995}, author = {Fogli, AL}, title = {Orbicularis muscleplasty and face lift: a better orbital contour.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {96}, number = {7}, pages = {1560-70; discussion 1571-2}, pmid = {7480276}, issn = {0032-1052}, mesh = {Aging ; Facial Muscles/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Orbit/*surgery ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; Surgical Flaps/methods ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {In the course of aging, the jugopalpebral tegumentary continuity disappears, and the orbital rim becomes more visible with the appearance of the palpebrojugal fold and the wrinkles of crow's feet. The deepening crease just above the sulcus cannot be well assessed because of the palpebral bags and the depression below the cheek due to ptosis of the premalar fat pad that comes down into the nasolabial fold. Repositioning of these volumes can be ensured by raising the cutaneous muscular and fat structures en bloc. Following an anatomic study of the aging process, I propose to section the fibers of the orbicularis muscle and to include them in the large cheek flap. This manipulation of the orbicularis will consolidate a weakened orbital septum. Resectioning of the fat pads under these conditions may not be necessary or at least may be more moderate because the deserted zones will be filled, which is what is desired. The cutaneous and capillary incisions adapted to the requirements of this technique are described. The results obtained with 123 patients over a period of 3 years by the same surgeon appear to be more complete and more natural because the transitional zones between the closed techniques of face lift on the one hand and of lower blepharoplasty on the other cease to exist.}, }
@article {pmid8857111, year = {1995}, author = {Fushimi, T and Inoue, A and Yahikozawa, H and Koh, CS and Yanagisawa, N}, title = {[The detection of factors that may promote the hepatocyte proliferation in the serum of a patient with crow-fukase syndrome].}, journal = {Arerugi = [Allergy]}, volume = {44}, number = {11}, pages = {1311-1316}, pmid = {8857111}, issn = {0021-4884}, mesh = {Aged ; Animals ; Female ; Hepatocyte Growth Factor/*blood ; Hepatomegaly/blood ; Humans ; In Vitro Techniques ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred BALB C ; POEMS Syndrome/*blood ; }, abstract = {We reported a case of Crow-Fukase syndrome and examined the mechanism of hepatomegaly in Crow-Fukase syndrome. A 67-year-old woman was presented with polyneruopathy, hepatosplenomegaly, pericardial effusion and M proteinemia. On examination, all laboratory data and clinical symptoms were compatible with Crow-Fukase syndrome. The patient was treated with prednisolone and immunoadsorption plasmaphresis therapy. All the clinical manifestations including hepatomegaly gradually improved. In order to examine whether some factors that promote the prolifelation of hepatocyte may exist in the patient's serum, we cultured mouse hepatocyte in the presence of patient's or control serum together. Though the number of hepatocytes decreased after 2 days culture, the number of hepatocytes cultured with patient's serum in active disease stage remained significantly greater than of hepatocytes cultured with either control serum or patient's serum in healing stage. There were no abnormal pathological findings in biopsied liver. Liver suggesting that hepatomegaly was the results of normal hepatocytes proliferation. Taken together, these findings suggest there were some factors that may promote the proliferation of hepatocytes or may have protective effect of hepatocyte in patient's serum. Though the level of human hepatocyte growth factor (h-HGF) in patient's serum in active disease stage was slightly increased, hepatomegaly cannot be attributable solely to h-HGF. Organomegaly is one of the important symptoms of the Crow-Fukase syndrome, however, in so far as we are aware its mechanism is not examined. In this report it is suggested that several unknown factors other than h-HGF may contribute the hepatomegaly of the Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid8700573, year = {1995}, author = {Hefti, D}, title = {Complications of trauma: the nurse's role in prevention.}, journal = {Orthopedic nursing}, volume = {14}, number = {6}, pages = {9-14; quiz 15-6}, doi = {10.1097/00006416-199511000-00003}, pmid = {8700573}, issn = {0744-6020}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Multiple Trauma/complications/nursing ; Orthopedic Nursing ; }, abstract = {Trauma is the leading cause of death in the United States for persons less than 40 years of age. It is the fourth leading cause of death in persons of all ages. Over 60 million injuries occur annually, therefore multiply injured patients represent a large portion of hospital admissions (Cordona, Hurd, Mason, et al., 1994; Geerts, Code, Jay, et al., 1994) Due to the complexity of patient care, and the potential for complications, nurses caring for these patients must be knowledgeable of their role in the patient's management and recovery. The following case scenario represents a typical multiply-injured patient and discusses common potential complications and how the nurse can intervene to prevent these complications from occurring.}, }
@article {pmid8587020, year = {1995}, author = {Fulcher, T and O'Keefe, M and Bowell, R and Lanigan, B and Burke, T and Carr, A and O'Rourke, M and Bolger, M}, title = {Intellectual and educational attainment in albinism.}, journal = {Journal of pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus}, volume = {32}, number = {6}, pages = {368-372}, doi = {10.3928/0191-3913-19951101-09}, pmid = {8587020}, issn = {0191-3913}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Albinism/*genetics/physiopathology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Educational Measurement ; *Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*genetics ; Male ; Visual Acuity/physiology ; }, abstract = {We studied the intellectual and educational ability of a group of 18 albino children as compared with that of a group of demographically matched controls. Intellectual ability was measured using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices, and educational ability was measured by the reading, spelling, and arithmetic tests of the Wide Range Achievement Test. There was no statistically significant difference in intelligence of the two groups. However, there was a significant difference in reading, spelling, and arithmetic skills. No correlation was found between the clinical features of the albino children and their performance on the intelligence or educational tests.}, }
@article {pmid7572983, year = {1995}, author = {Eskenazi, B and Trupin, LS}, title = {Passive and active maternal smoking during pregnancy, as measured by serum cotinine, and postnatal smoke exposure. II. Effects on neurodevelopment at age 5 years.}, journal = {American journal of epidemiology}, volume = {142}, number = {9 Suppl}, pages = {S19-29}, doi = {10.1093/aje/142.supplement_9.s19}, pmid = {7572983}, issn = {0002-9262}, mesh = {Biomarkers/blood ; Child Behavior/drug effects ; Child, Preschool ; Cotinine/*blood ; Female ; Humans ; Linear Models ; Male ; *Maternal Exposure ; Nervous System/*drug effects/growth &amp; development ; Odds Ratio ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Complications/*blood ; *Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects ; Smoking/*adverse effects/blood ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Tobacco Smoke Pollution/*adverse effects ; }, abstract = {The authors sought to determine the neurobehavioral effects of prenatal exposure to maternal active smoking and environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), assessed by maternal serum cotinine level, and of postnatal exposure to smoke based on maternal report. Five-year-old children (n = 2,124) who were participants in the Child Health and Development Studies in Oakland, California, between 1964 and 1967 were evaluated with the use of the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (PPVT) and the Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices Test, and also assessed on a behavioral rating scale completed by the mother that included questions on activity level. Children of ETS-exposed women did not differ from children of other nonsmokers on neurobehavioral assessment. Children whose mothers smoked during pregnancy had somewhat higher adjusted Raven (p = 0.10) and PPVT scores (p = 0.06) than children of nonsmokers, although they did not differ in their activity level (p = 0.32). However, children smoke-exposed during childhood did have lower adjusted Raven (p = 0.01) and PPVT scores (p = 0.16), and were rated more active by their mothers (p = 0.04). These differences may be attributed to uncontrolled confounding of sociobehavioral variables. However, the authors cannot rule out the possibility that ETS exposure during childhood may be more hazardous to neurodevelopment than prenatal exposure.}, }
@article {pmid7495610, year = {1995}, author = {Nagano, K and Tanabe, H and Kazui, H and Ikeda, M and Hashimoto, M and Yamada, N and Nakagawa, Y and Nishimura, T}, title = {[Assessment for intelligence on patients with Pick's disease].}, journal = {No to shinkei = Brain and nerve}, volume = {47}, number = {11}, pages = {1051-1057}, pmid = {7495610}, issn = {0006-8969}, mesh = {Aged ; Aphasia/psychology ; Atrophy ; Dementia/*psychology ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/pathology ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Temporal Lobe/pathology ; }, abstract = {In contrast to Alzheimer's disease, it is unclear whether the MMS (Mini-Mental State) or the RCPM (Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices) is clinically useful as a mental test battery in patients with Pick's disease, and it has not been fully evaluated whether intelligence of these patients really deteriorate along with the staging of dementia. The present study aimed to make these problems clear. We administered the MMS and the RCPM to 17 cases of Pick's disease, including 7 cases with predominantly frontal lobe atrophy and 10 cases with predominantly temporal lobe atrophy, which were all classified into 3 groups according to the staging of dementia by using the NM scale (New Clinical Scale for Rating of Mental States). We also investigated whether these patients had "Denkfaulheit" (laziness of thinking) and/or "gogi" aphasia (word meaning aphasia), which may affect performances on the mental test batteries. Two cases with predominantly frontal lobe atrophy and 5 cases with predominantly temporal lobe atrophy were assessed by the same examinations several years later. In cases with predominantly frontal lobe atrophy, all the patients presented with "Denkfaulheit". However, the mean RCPM score was normal in the mildly damaged patients, suggesting that their intelligence were relatively preserved. In the moderately and severely damaged groups, their intelligence could not be assessed owing to their severe "Denkfaulheit". In cases with predominantly temporal lobe atrophy, all the patients had "gogi" aphasia and 3 cases of the severely damaged groups presented with "Denkfaulheit".(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid8546149, year = {1995}, author = {Arranz, M and Sharma, T and Sham, P and Kerwin, R and Nanko, S and Owen, M and Gill, M and Collier, D}, title = {Schizophrenia and the androgen receptor gene: report of a sibship showing co-segregation with Reifenstein syndrome but no evidence for linkage in 23 multiply affected families.}, journal = {American journal of medical genetics}, volume = {60}, number = {5}, pages = {377-381}, doi = {10.1002/ajmg.1320600506}, pmid = {8546149}, issn = {0148-7299}, support = {//Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Base Sequence ; Disorders of Sex Development/*genetics ; Female ; Genetic Linkage ; Humans ; Male ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Mutation ; Pedigree ; Receptors, Androgen/*genetics ; Schizophrenia/*genetics/metabolism ; Syndrome ; *X Chromosome ; }, abstract = {Crow et al. [1993: Am J Med Genet (Neuropsychiatr Genet) 48:159-160] have reported excess sharing of alleles by male sibling pairs with schizophrenia, at a triplet repeat marker within the androgen receptor gene, indicating that mutations at or near this gene may be a risk factor for males. In this report, we describe a pair of male siblings concordant for both schizophrenia and Reifenstein syndrome, which is caused by a mutation in this gene. This provides support for the hypothesis that the androgen receptor may contribute to liability to develop schizophrenia. Because of this, we have examined a collection of 23 pedigrees multiply affected by schizophrenia for linkage to the androgen receptor. We have found no evidence for linkage by both the LOD score and affected sibling-pair methods, under a range of genetic models with a broad and narrow definition of phenotype, and when families with male-to-male transmission are excluded. However, because of the small number of informative male-male pairs in our sample, we cannot confirm or refute the excess allele sharing for males reported by Crow.}, }
@article {pmid11619071, year = {1995}, author = {Raven, K}, title = {War and peace.}, journal = {International history of nursing journal : IHNJ}, volume = {1}, number = {2}, pages = {53-74}, pmid = {11619071}, issn = {1360-1105}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; *Nursing ; United Kingdom ; *Warfare ; }, abstract = {The Dame Kathleen Raven Lecture is an annual lecture in recognition of the contribution of Dame Kathleen Raven to nurse education and nursing practice. Each year, distinguished speakers are encouraged, in front of an invited and eminent audience, to range far and wide and reflect on nursing, education and patient care. Uniquely, in 1995, Dame Kathleen herself gave the lecture. The following comprised the substantial part of her important speech to the assembled guests.}, }
@article {pmid8789678, year = {1995}, author = {Sobel, BE}, title = {Ravens, contrapositives, and gene therapy.}, journal = {Coronary artery disease}, volume = {6}, number = {10}, pages = {839-840}, pmid = {8789678}, issn = {0954-6928}, mesh = {*Attitude ; *Biotechnology ; Genetic Therapy ; Humans ; }, }
@article {pmid8749709, year = {1995}, author = {Nappo, A}, title = {Cock-crow reflex epilepsy.}, journal = {Italian journal of neurological sciences}, volume = {16}, number = {7}, pages = {501-503}, pmid = {8749709}, issn = {0392-0461}, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation ; Adult ; Epilepsy/*physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Reflex/*physiology ; }, }
@article {pmid7472875, year = {1995}, author = {Baker, DG and Morishita, TY and Brooks, DL and Shen, SK and Lindsay, DS and Dubey, JP}, title = {Experimental oral inoculations in birds to evaluate potential definitive hosts of Neospora caninum.}, journal = {The Journal of parasitology}, volume = {81}, number = {5}, pages = {783-785}, pmid = {7472875}, issn = {0022-3395}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Birds/parasitology ; Coccidiosis/parasitology/*veterinary ; Feces/parasitology ; Mice ; Neospora/isolation &amp; purification/*pathogenicity ; Parasite Egg Count ; Rats ; }, abstract = {Experimental oral inoculations to evaluate potential definitive hosts of Neospora caninum were conducted by feeding infected rodent tissues to 9 carnivorous birds of 4 species. Birds included 2 red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis), 2 turkey vultures (Cathartes aura), 2 barn owls (Tyto alba), and 3 American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchus). The rodents (mice or rats) had been inoculated with 100,000 culture-derived tachyzoites of N. caninum 1-6 mo before feeding to the birds. Fecal samples were collected from each bird daily for 1 mo after feeding rodents and examined for oocysts by fecal flotation. In addition, processed aliquots from all avian fecal samples were fed to BALB/c mice. Five weeks after feeding, mice were bled and sera were tested for antibodies against N. caninum. One to two months later, mice were killed and brain tissue was examined microscopically for protozoal cysts. While occasional oocysts were found in avian fecal samples, these were likely not N. caninum because they were not infective to BALB/c mice. It was concluded that the bird species tested are not likely to be definitive hosts of N. caninum.}, }
@article {pmid7677720, year = {1995}, author = {Clark, DA and Oates, T}, title = {Daily hassles, major and minor life events, and their interaction with sociotropy and autonomy.}, journal = {Behaviour research and therapy}, volume = {33}, number = {7}, pages = {819-823}, doi = {10.1016/0005-7967(95)00020-x}, pmid = {7677720}, issn = {0005-7967}, mesh = {Adult ; Cognition ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; Humans ; *Life Change Events ; Male ; }, abstract = {A cross-sectional study investigated whether Beck's (1983; 1987) (Treatment of depression: Old controversies and new approaches. New York: Raven Press; Journal of Cognitive Psychotherapy, 1, 2-27) cognitive-personality traits of sociotropy and autonomy had a specific interaction with daily minor life events (hassles) or major life experiences within the interpersonal and autonomous domains. Ninety-four undergraduates were administered the revised Sociotropy-Autonomy Scale (SAS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Negative Experiences Inventory--Student Version (NEI), List of Threatening Events and the Hassles and Uplifts Scale. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis, with the BDI as the dependent variable, revealed a specific congruent interaction between Solitude, one of the two dimensions of autonomy, and NEI negative autonomous events. Sociotropy and the other dimension of autonomy, Independence, did not interact significantly with any of the life event scales. The findings suggest that more severe life events rather than daily hassles or strains may be more relevant when investigating cognitive diathesis-stress interactions in dysphoria.}, }
@article {pmid7489891, year = {1995}, author = {Bulaeva, KB and Kurbatova, OL and Pavlova, TA and Guseĭnov, GG and Bodia, IE and Charukhilova, SM and Akhkuev, SKh}, title = {[Genetic-demographic study of mountain populations from Dagestan and their migrants to the lowlands. Comparison of basic parameters of fitness].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {31}, number = {9}, pages = {1300-1307}, pmid = {7489891}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Physiological ; Child ; Consanguinity ; *Demography ; *Emigration and Immigration ; Female ; Fertility ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease ; *Genetics, Population ; Heterozygote ; Humans ; Male ; Marriage ; Mortality ; Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander/*genetics ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Outcome ; Racial Groups ; Russia ; }, abstract = {Results of a total genetic demography study of females of postreproductive age from both parts of "splits" highland isolates of Dagestan, highlanders, and migrants to lowlands are described. The components of natural selection that were related to differential mortality and differential fertility were estimated in the highlanders and the migrants using Crow indices. Offsprings of female migrants were characterized by a higher prenatal (spontaneous abortions and still-births) and a lower prereproductive mortality. These differences may be accounted for by two mechanisms: (1) the effects of changing marital structure (female migrants are more exogamous) and (2) better medical care for the children of migrants compared to those living in highland auls (settlements), which are still difficult to access. It was demonstrated that mortality of probands' children before reproductive age, as well as the proportion of their close genetic relatives that died within five years after resettling, increased with an increase in the level of individual inbreeding in women examined (probands). These data allow us to suggest that the drastic increase revealed in mortality of the highlanders during the first years after resettling may be partially attributed to high levels of inbreeding and heterozygosity; these, in turn, decrease the individual's nonspecific resistance to new ecological factors. Fertility and prenatal mortality appeared to increase and decrease, respectively, with an increase in the inbreeding level.}, }
@article {pmid12346528, year = {1995}, author = {Mackinnon, A}, title = {Were women present at the demographic transition? Questions from a feminist historian to historical demographers.}, journal = {Gender &amp; history}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {222-240}, doi = {10.1111/j.1468-0424.1995.tb00022.x}, pmid = {12346528}, issn = {0953-5233}, mesh = {*Birth Rate ; *Demography ; Developed Countries ; Europe ; *Feminism ; Fertility ; Population ; *Population Dynamics ; *Social Change ; Social Sciences ; }, }
@article {pmid8545507, year = {1995}, author = {Meissner, WW}, title = {In the shadow of death.}, journal = {Psychoanalytic review}, volume = {82}, number = {4}, pages = {535-557}, pmid = {8545507}, issn = {0033-2836}, mesh = {*Attitude to Death ; Fantasy ; Humans ; Male ; *Paintings ; *Psychoanalytic Interpretation ; Religion and Psychology ; Suicide/psychology ; Symbolism ; Unconscious, Psychology ; }, abstract = {Death dogged Vincent's footsteps throughout his life, and formed a core component of his unconscious fantasy system. It cast a lugubrious shadow over all of his undertakings--he found little joy and less love in life. It found its way onto his canvases, both directly--the grinning death's head--and indirectly. It found expression in his portrayals of sowers and reapers, in his representations of trees--especially the highly symbolic treatments of cypresses--in the menacing crows hovering over storm-darkened fields of wheat, and finally in the images of Christ, suffering and dead, held in the embrace of a loving and grieving mother. If death was a bottomless pit that haunted him with its terrors, it was also a siren song that drew him ever closer to his destiny, ever closer to the edge of the pit. The power of that attraction lies in his identification with the dead Vincent whose place he had taken and whose name he bore. It was through that identification, and through the passageway of suffering and death that he would surcease in the arms of a loving and accepting mother whose warm embrace he had sought throughout his odyssey, but in vain. It was to be gained only in and through death. It was only through death that he would find rest from his pain and would gain the heavenly reward of his suffering in eternal love and bliss.}, }
@article {pmid7546254, year = {1995}, author = {Wang, HJ and Chen, TM and Yang, TS and Wang, DS and Lin, SZ}, title = {Regional skin blood flow in deep burn wounds: a preliminary report.}, journal = {Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries}, volume = {21}, number = {5}, pages = {340-343}, doi = {10.1016/0305-4179(94)00020-4}, pmid = {7546254}, issn = {0305-4179}, mesh = {Animals ; Antipyrine/analogs &amp; derivatives ; Burns/pathology/*physiopathology ; Carbon Radioisotopes ; Male ; Rats ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; Regional Blood Flow ; Skin/*blood supply/pathology ; }, abstract = {Local skin blood flow (LSBF) using the Walker's deep burn rat model was studied on the first three postburn days using the carbon-14 iodoantipyrine ([14C]IAP) perfusion method. The radioactive [14C]IAP (12.5 microCi) was infused through the femoral vein over a period of 30 seconds and the blood samples were collected by a free flow from the femoral artery at 5-s intervals to evaluate the concentration of the isotope, in the blood. At the conclusion of the infusion, the rats were guillotined and biopsies were obtained from the burned skin, unburned skin from burned rats and skin from sham control rats to assay the isotope in the skin. The LSBF was calculated from the skin tissue and plasma radioactivity data using Jay's equation. The results showed significant decreases of the skin blood flow in the deep burn wound with 4.05 +/- 1.16, 5.31 +/- 1.32 and 4.77 +/- 2.48 ml/100 g/min as compared to the LSBF of unburned skin 10.27 +/- 1.49, 12.39 +/- 2.05, 14.79 +/- 1.85 ml/100 g/min on postburn days 1, 2 and 3 (P < 0.05). The blood flow of the control group skin was 11.5 +/- 1.97 ml/100 g/min (P < 0.05). There were also significant differences of LSBF among burn wounds on postburn days 1, 2 and 3 (P < 0.05). Pathological study of the deep burn wound showed that more of the blood flow was in the subcutaneous adjacent areolar tissue, than in the deep reticular dermis, and only a little occurred in the upper reticular dermis occasionally.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid7481061, year = {1995}, author = {Gebauer, W and Lamberti, G}, title = {[Neuropsychological analysis of schizophrenia-induced attention deficits--attempt at an overview].}, journal = {Die Rehabilitation}, volume = {34}, number = {3}, pages = {128-138}, pmid = {7481061}, issn = {0034-3536}, mesh = {*Attention/physiology ; Humans ; Neurocognitive Disorders/physiopathology/*rehabilitation ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Schizophrenia/physiopathology/*rehabilitation ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; }, abstract = {In this review schizophrenic attention disorders are described from a neuropsychological perspective. After a historical excursion to Wundt, James and Kraepelin, the experimental psychology attention research of the last decades is presented, with special regard to Joseph Zubin's model of attention. After describing the symptomatology and course of schizophrenic psychosis, the concept of positive and negative symptoms according to Crow and Andreasen is set out as well. In describing the cognitive disorders it is on the one hand tried to elucidate the concept of "Basisstörung", and, on the other, to deal with attention disorders as potential vulnerability markers. After setting out various models re. the origin of attention disorders in both acute and chronic psychoses, implications for diagnosis and treatment are offered for the clinical psychologist in conclusion.}, }
@article {pmid8749046, year = {1995}, author = {Pruneti, CA and Boem, A}, title = {Physiological response in healthy subjects and in patients after myocardial infarction, elicited by a new computerised version of the Raven Coloured PM 47 as a mental stress test.}, journal = {Functional neurology}, volume = {10}, number = {4-5}, pages = {195-201}, pmid = {8749046}, issn = {0393-5264}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Arousal/*physiology ; Autonomic Nervous System/physiopathology ; Electromyography ; Galvanic Skin Response/physiology ; Heart Rate/physiology ; Humans ; Male ; *Microcomputers ; Middle Aged ; Myocardial Infarction/*physiopathology/psychology ; Pattern Recognition, Visual/*physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Respiration/physiology ; Skin Temperature/physiology ; Social Environment ; Stress, Psychological/*complications ; Type A Personality ; }, abstract = {The Raven Progressive Matrices Test, in its various versions, has frequently been used in research on stress related diseases. In this paper the preliminary data relating to the administration of this version of test performed by a personal computer are presented. The "Coloured" version of the PM 47 was used, with the addition of a series of visual and acoustic stress stimuli; a maximum 30-second matrix presentation time was also introduced. Two groups took part in the test modified in this way: the first was made up of 23 male subjects aged 30 to 65 who had had a myocardial infarction in the previous six months; the second, a control group of the first, was composed of an equal number of subjects, without present or past cardiovascular or psychiatric disorders or illness. Frontal EMG, skin conductance response, peripheral temperature, heart rate and respiration rate were recorded at rest and during the test administration. The results obtained from the psychophysiological profile carried out on the two groups demonstrated the effectiveness of the methodology used in eliciting constant and stable stress responses.}, }
@article {pmid8540255, year = {1995}, author = {Zorina, ZA and Kalinina, TS and Markina, NV}, title = {[The capacity for transitive inference in birds: the solving of the Gillan test by Corvidae and pigeons].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {45}, number = {4}, pages = {716-722}, pmid = {8540255}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Color ; Columbidae/*physiology ; Discrimination Learning/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Psychophysiology ; Reinforcement, Psychology ; }, abstract = {Transitive inference in birds was investigated using D. J. Gillan (1981) experimental procedure. In the initial experiment 11 pigeons and 14 crows were trained to differentiate colour stimuli in pairs of adjacent ones from five-stimulus succession A, B, C, D, and E. The birds learned that stimulus E was associated with more food items than D, D, in turn, signalled less food items than C, and so on. Then the birds were tested by newly formed pairs of stimuli from the same succession (BD, CE, and BE). There were two series of testing. Both crows and pigeons solved the transitive inference test successfully (choosing D and E) in the series with small numbers of food items. In the series with larger numbers of food items the pigeons shifted to random performance while in crows the percentage of correct choices decreased. The proportion of adequate test solutions grew with the absolute difference between the numbers of food items associated with stimuli to compare. The capacity for solving the test in our experiments can be considered as the result of immediate comparison of the absolute numbers of food items associated with each stimulus. Thus, the data cannot be regarded as the final proof that these species are capable for transitive inference.}, }
@article {pmid8540254, year = {1995}, author = {Pleskacheva, MG and Zorina, ZA and Chebykina, LI and Kostyna, ZA}, title = {[The solving of the Revecz-Krushinskiĭ test by Norway rats].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {45}, number = {4}, pages = {701-715}, pmid = {8540254}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Choice Behavior/physiology ; Conditioning, Psychological/physiology ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Male ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Rats ; Reinforcement, Psychology ; }, abstract = {Reasoning abilities of Norway rats were studied in Revecz-Krushinskiĭ test. In this test 12 opaque plastic cylinders were placed in a row. Rats obtained the bait (sunflower seeds) after tipping the goal cylinder (from the feeder situated under it) independently of the number of one tipped before. Positions of the baits were changed in the following order: the cylinder No 1 in the first trial, No 2--in the second and so on up to the twelfth one. Rats were tested 3 times (12 trials, once a week) in a rectangular box with a starting chamber and a working part with a special device which excluded the influence of olfactory stimuli. Solution scores demonstrated that rats chose cylinders in the nonrandom manner and their behaviour scores were similar to those of crows and monkeys. Analysis of errors and strategies of behaviour of rats showed that quick improvement of feeding was at least partly determined by easy acquisition of recent food positions (i.e., the algorithm of shifting).}, }
@article {pmid7663094, year = {1995}, author = {Guo, YL and Lai, TJ and Chen, SJ and Hsu, CC}, title = {Gender-related decrease in Raven's progressive matrices scores in children prenatally exposed to polychlorinated biphenyls and related contaminants.}, journal = {Bulletin of environmental contamination and toxicology}, volume = {55}, number = {1}, pages = {8-13}, pmid = {7663094}, issn = {0007-4861}, mesh = {Benzofurans/*adverse effects ; Child ; China ; Cognition/*drug effects ; Cognition Disorders/*chemically induced ; Cohort Studies ; Dibenzofurans, Polychlorinated ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Maternal Exposure ; Plant Oils/adverse effects ; Polychlorinated Biphenyls/*adverse effects ; Pregnancy ; *Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects ; Regression Analysis ; Sex Characteristics ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Taiwan ; }, }
@article {pmid7623016, year = {1995}, author = {Haraldsson, E}, title = {Personality and abilities of children claiming previous-life memories.}, journal = {The Journal of nervous and mental disease}, volume = {183}, number = {7}, pages = {445-451}, doi = {10.1097/00005053-199507000-00004}, pmid = {7623016}, issn = {0022-3018}, mesh = {Achievement ; Adolescent ; Attitude ; Child ; Child Behavior Disorders/epidemiology/psychology ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Memory ; *Parapsychology ; Parents/psychology ; *Personality ; Psychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Psychology, Child ; Social Adjustment ; Sri Lanka/epidemiology ; Suggestion ; Teaching ; }, abstract = {Young children who claim memories of a previous life can be found in many countries, particularly in Asia. The child frequently states where he/she lived previously, often claims violent death in the previous life and shows phobias/philias, and sometimes has birthmarks or deformities that he/she associates with the previous life. The Gudjonsson Suggestibility Scale, Raven Progressive Matrices, Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test, and the Child Behavior Checklist were administered to 23 children in Sri Lanka who, mostly at an earlier age, had consistently been claiming memories of a previous life. They had greater verbal skills and better memory than their peers, performed much better in school, and were more socially active, but were not more suggestible. As judged by their parents, they had a higher Child Behavior Checklist problem score than their peers, but not according to their teachers.}, }
@article {pmid7575363, year = {1995}, author = {Rijsdijk, FV and Boomsma, DI and Vernon, PA}, title = {Genetic analysis of peripheral nerve conduction velocity in twins.}, journal = {Behavior genetics}, volume = {25}, number = {4}, pages = {341-348}, pmid = {7575363}, issn = {0001-8244}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Humans ; Intelligence/*genetics ; Median Nerve/physiology ; Netherlands ; Peripheral Nerves/*physiology ; Phenotype ; Reaction Time/genetics ; Reference Values ; Synaptic Transmission/*genetics ; Twins, Dizygotic/*genetics ; Twins, Monozygotic/*genetics ; }, abstract = {We studied variation in peripheral nerve conduction velocity (PNCV) and intelligence in a group of 16-year-old Dutch twins. It has been suggested that both brain nerve conduction velocity and PNCV are positively correlated with intelligence (Reed, 1984) and that heritable differences in NCV may explain part of the well established heritability of intelligence. The Standard Progressive Matrices test was administered to 210 twin pairs to obtain IQ scores. Median nerve PNCV was determined in a subgroup of 156 pairs. Genetic analyses showed a heritability of 0.65 for Raven IQ score and 0.77 for PNCV. However, there was no significant phenotypic correlation between IQ score and PNCV.}, }
@article {pmid7568518, year = {1995}, author = {Dosiak, M}, title = {[Schizophrenia: one or two psychoses? Positive and negative symptoms].}, journal = {Psychiatria polska}, volume = {29}, number = {4}, pages = {455-464}, pmid = {7568518}, issn = {0033-2674}, mesh = {Antidepressive Agents/therapeutic use ; Brain/physiopathology ; Cholinergic Antagonists/therapeutic use ; Humans ; Neurotransmitter Agents/metabolism ; Schizophrenia/*diagnosis/drug therapy/physiopathology ; Schizophrenic Psychology ; Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {In this paper are presented conceptions of the twofold idea of schizophrenia as disease of two types dependent on positive or negative symptoms. Actual examination of fundamental research about the fluctuating of brain turnover of neurotransmitters confirm Crow's theory of selected two types of schizophrenic patients. In conclusion the results suggest that, depending on the course of schizophrenia, individual and multiplex forms of treatment including pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy and psychosocial effects are required.}, }
@article {pmid7496083, year = {1995}, author = {Okura, H and Gohma, I and Hatta, K and Imanaka, T}, title = {Thiamine deficiency and pulmonary hypertension in Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {Internal medicine (Tokyo, Japan)}, volume = {34}, number = {7}, pages = {674-675}, doi = {10.2169/internalmedicine.34.674}, pmid = {7496083}, issn = {0918-2918}, mesh = {Drug Therapy, Combination ; Female ; Humans ; Hypertension, Pulmonary/drug therapy/*etiology ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications/drug therapy ; Prednisolone/therapeutic use ; Thiamine/therapeutic use ; Thiamine Deficiency/drug therapy/*etiology ; }, abstract = {A 57-year-old woman with Crow-Fukase syndrome presented thiamine deficiency and pulmonary hypertension of unknown etiology. After oral administration of prednisolone and thiamine, echocardiogram showed marked improvement of the pulmonary hypertension. To our knowledge, this is the first case of this syndrome associated with thiamine deficiency and precapillary pulmonary hypertension, which may play a role in the pathogenesis of polyneuropathy and heart failure of this syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid7484302, year = {1995}, author = {Andrés Carrasco, MA and Catalá, MA and Gómez-Beneyto, M}, title = {[Study of the prevalence of the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in ten-year-old children living in the Valencia metropolitan area].}, journal = {Actas luso-espanolas de neurologia, psiquiatria y ciencias afines}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {184-188}, pmid = {7484302}, issn = {0300-5062}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Humans ; Incidence ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Spain/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {The point prevalence of Attentional Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity is estimated in a random sample of 387 10-year-old children selected from the municipal census of the city of Valencia (Spain). A number of associated factors are described, along with the utilization of public health services. Diagnosis was established according to DSM-III-R criteria. The instruments used were: K-SADS-E; GAF Scale; Raven Progressive Matrices Test and Sociodemographic, Health and Services Use Information Questionnaire. Prevalence was estimated at 8.01 +/- 2.7% (mild 3.9%; moderate 3.9%; severe 0.3%). The male/female ratio was 2:1. Attentional Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity was significantly associated with low academic performance and the condition of living with only one parent. These children made use of the psychological support services with significantly greater frequency than non hyperactive children, regardless of the degree of severity or academic performance.}, }
@article {pmid7476691, year = {1995}, author = {Beér, SA and Solonets, TM and Dorozhenkova, TE and Zhukova, TV}, title = {[Human cercariasis caused by schistosomatid larvae from aquatic birds in the Narochanka River recreational area of Byelarus].}, journal = {Meditsinskaia parazitologiia i parazitarnye bolezni}, volume = {}, number = {3}, pages = {8-11}, pmid = {7476691}, issn = {0025-8326}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology/transmission ; *Disease Vectors ; Ducks/*parasitology ; Ecology ; Female ; Fresh Water/*parasitology ; Humans ; Larva ; Male ; *Recreation ; Republic of Belarus ; Schistosomatidae/*isolation &amp; purification ; Snails/parasitology ; Trematode Infections/*parasitology/transmission/veterinary ; }, abstract = {The reasons of the dramatically aggravated cercarial situation were examined in the Naroch Lake area (Minsk Province, Byelorussia). The incidence of infection with cercariae of the family Schistosomatidae trematodes in 8 mollusk species of the genera Lymnaea, Planorbarius, Planorbis, Anisus which were nonuniformly distributed in the upper littoral were studied. The snails form mosaic congestions of various density (from solitary individuals in a 50-100 m2 area to hundreds per m2), which is associated with the nature of aquaphytocenoses and the degree of plant overgrowth. The snails infected with Trichobilharzia ocellata and Bilharziella polonica cercariae accounted for 18.8%. Schistosoma cercariae affected L. stagnalis, L. ovata, and L.p. corvus to the greatest extent. The proportion of ducks (Anas platyrhyncha) infected with the two Schistosomatidae is 30.0% in the area in question with the average infestation rate of as many as 20 trematodes of both sexes per duck. High-risk areas for human infestation (with the number of Schistosoma cercariae exceeding 10 larvae in 10 liters of water) were recorded in the upper littorals in the beach zones of all recreation institutions such as sanatoria, rest homes, camping, etc.). The fact that Schistosoma cercariae can be active in attacking man under the conditions of the Naroch Lake littoral was verified by the self-infestation of one of the authors (S.A. Be'er). Schistosome dermatitis showing its typical clinical manifestations developed after 120-130 cercariae had penetrated into the arms and legs.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid11362540, year = {1995}, author = {Levy, J}, title = {The CD8 cell antiviral factor: an interview with immunologist Jay Levy, MD. Interview by Mark Mascolini.}, journal = {BETA : bulletin of experimental treatments for AIDS : a publication of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {18-24}, pmid = {11362540}, issn = {1058-708X}, mesh = {AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections/prevention &amp; control ; Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/*immunology/therapy/transmission ; Animals ; Antigens, CD/*immunology ; Biological Factors/*isolation &amp; purification ; CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology ; CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/*immunology ; Cells, Cultured ; Female ; HIV-1/*physiology ; HIV-2/physiology ; Humans ; Male ; *Virus Replication ; }, }
@article {pmid7758292, year = {1995}, author = {Olson, DJ and Kamil, AC and Balda, RP and Nims, PJ}, title = {Performance of four seed-caching corvid species in operant tests of nonspatial and spatial memory.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {109}, number = {2}, pages = {173-181}, doi = {10.1037/0735-7036.109.2.173}, pmid = {7758292}, issn = {0735-7036}, support = {MH44200/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Appetitive Behavior ; Attention ; *Birds ; Choice Behavior ; Feeding Behavior ; *Mental Recall ; *Orientation ; Retention, Psychology ; *Space Perception ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The performance of 4 seed-caching corvid species was tested using 2 different operant nonmatching tasks. These species differ in their dependence on stored food, and differences in spatial memory tests have been correlated with better performance by the more cache-dependent species. Acquisition and retention of a color non-matching-to-sample task was tested in Experiment 1. Acquisition of the color task was not correlated with cache dependence, and no differences between species in performance during memory testing were found. Acquisition and retention of an operant spatial non-matching-to-sample task was tested in Experiment 2. Species differences in the spatial task were found for acquisition and during retention testing. The influence of natural history on the evolution of memory is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid7676661, year = {1995}, author = {Krízová, J and Mazárová, V and Válek, J and Charvát, J and Englis, M}, title = {[The Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome].}, journal = {Vnitrni lekarstvi}, volume = {41}, number = {6}, pages = {400-402}, pmid = {7676661}, issn = {0042-773X}, mesh = {Aged ; Humans ; Male ; *POEMS Syndrome/diagnosis/therapy ; }, }
@article {pmid8562880, year = {1995}, author = {Bonanni, F and Rattenni, S and Mela, D and Goretti, R and Ricciardi, S and Marenco, G}, title = {POEMS and Crow-Fukase syndrome: two cases giving rise to more questions about plasma cell dyscrasias.}, journal = {In vivo (Athens, Greece)}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {193-194}, pmid = {8562880}, issn = {0258-851X}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/drug therapy/*pathology ; Paraproteinemias/*etiology ; }, abstract = {Two cases of POEMS and Crow-Fukase syndrome are reported. We focused our attention on the problems recently debated in the literature regarding POEMS and osteosclerotic myeloma, the pathogenetic mechanisms of the clinical symptoms in these syndromes and the problems of their classification among plasma cell dyscrasias with polyneuropathy.}, }
@article {pmid7737103, year = {1995}, author = {Linde, L}, title = {Mental effects of caffeine in fatigued and non-fatigued female and male subjects.}, journal = {Ergonomics}, volume = {38}, number = {5}, pages = {864-885}, doi = {10.1080/00140139508925157}, pmid = {7737103}, issn = {0014-0139}, mesh = {Adult ; Caffeine/*pharmacology ; Fatigue/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Processes/*drug effects ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {In experiment 1 eight male and eight female subjects were randomly assigned to either a caffeine or a placebo condition. Caffeine (150 mg) was given at midnight and at 4 a.m. Oral temperature, subjective ratings of fatigue and mood, and performance in two cognitive tasks (an auditive attention task and a visual coding task) were assessed. Subjective 'drowsiness' and 'tiredness' increased significantly more in subjects given placebo than in subjects given caffeine treatment. The effects of drug treatment in performance and temperature were non-significant. However, the temperature of female subjects increased between midnight and 4 a.m. and the temperature of male subjects decreased during the same period of time. On the other hand, at 5 a.m. female subjects rated themselves as more sleepy, tired and 'disorganized' than the male subjects. In experiment 2 nine female and nine male subjects were assigned randomly to either placebo or caffeine treatment. Caffeine (200 mg) was given at 5 a.m. Oral temperature, subjective ratings of fatigue and mood, and level of performance in three cognitive tasks (the same as above plus Raven's progressive matrices) were assessed. Moreover, the subjects rated the effort of performing each task. The effects of drug treatment in level of performance were non-significant. However, the subjective effort of performing the auditive attention task increased significantly in subjects given placebo treatment, suggesting a compensatory arousal mechanism (Broadbent 1971). The effect of gender on temperature was non-significant. There was a significant interaction between gender and treatment in respect of subjective effort of performing the matrices task. In men caffeine decreased subjective effort and in women subjective effort was increased by caffeine. Experiment 3 was set up to investigate the hypothesis that negative effects of caffeine in women, observed in experiment 2, were due to over-optimal ('vigilance-related') arousal for the visual coding and matrices tasks. Ten female and eight male non-sleep deprived subjects were given 200 mg caffeine or placebos at 3 p.m. and tested at 4 p.m. Experiment 3 was not found to support the over-optimal 'vigilance-related-arousal' hypothesis. Effects of caffeine in performance and effort were non-significant in experiment 3. Combining data from experiments 2 and 3 gave a significant three-way interaction between caffeine, time for experiment and rule complexity in the visual coding task. When there was a complex rule, caffeine was found to have a positive effect in experiment 3 and a negative effect in experiment 2.}, }
@article {pmid7645324, year = {1995}, author = {Zorina, ZA and Smirnova, AA}, title = {[Numerousness judgement in hooded crows: generalization by the "more than" concept].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {45}, number = {3}, pages = {490-499}, pmid = {7645324}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Choice Behavior/physiology ; Discrimination, Psychological ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Generalization, Psychological/*physiology ; Higher Nervous Activity/*physiology ; *Mathematics ; Photic Stimulation/methods ; }, abstract = {Four carrion crows were trained to choose the greater array from pairs of numerousness discriminanda in the range of 1-12. In the process of training all irrelevant attributes of the arrays (geometric form, size and color of elements, patterns of distribution) were varied. Several control procedures were employed to make extraneous cues unlikely. In particular, in order to preclude the use of cumulative area or other magnitude cues the ratio of cumulative area of elements to their number was varied (in a half of presentations the greater array consisted of bigger elements while the lesser array consisted of smaller elements and in the other half the greater array consisted of smaller elements while the lesser array consisted of bigger elements). All the crows demonstrated high accuracy of comparisons (75.3 +/- 2.4%). Correct performance dominated also under conditions with minimal difference between the compared arrays. It was concluded that these crows were able to compare the arrays in the range of 1-12 by numerosity itself. When arrays in the new range of 10-20 were presented all the crows demonstrated successful transfer of acquired reaction without any additional training (71.5 +/- 2.3%). However, when the ratio of cumulative area of elements to their number varied only two of the four crows performed successfully (71.9 +/- 3.6). Taken together these data suggest that crows are capable of forming the concept "more than" based on numerical discrimination up to 20.}, }
@article {pmid7636014, year = {1995}, author = {Miller, MW}, title = {Relationship of the time of origin and death of neurons in rat somatosensory cortex: barrel versus septal cortex and projection versus local circuit neurons.}, journal = {The Journal of comparative neurology}, volume = {355}, number = {1}, pages = {6-14}, doi = {10.1002/cne.903550104}, pmid = {7636014}, issn = {0021-9967}, support = {AA 06916/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA 07568/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; DE 07734/DE/NIDCR NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Brain Mapping ; Cell Death/physiology ; Cell Differentiation/physiology ; Cell Movement/physiology ; Cell Survival/physiology ; Gestational Age ; Neural Pathways/physiology ; Neurons/*physiology ; Rats ; Somatosensory Cortex/embryology/*pathology ; }, abstract = {The birth of a neuron initiates a series of ontogenetic events, e.g., neuronal migration and differentiation. The outcomes of these events are neurons that successfully integrate into the cortical circuitry and neurons that are unsuccessful and ultimately die. The present study determined whether there is a relationship between the generation and death of cortical neurons. The decrease in the density of postmigratory neurons (heavily labeled by a single injection of [3H]thymidine) during normal development was used as an index of neuronal death. The survival indices of neurons varied with their times of origin. Neurons born from gestational day (G) 15 to G18 had the highest rates of survival. In contrast, the earliest and latest generated neurons (i.e., those born on G12-G13 and those born on G19-G21, respectively) had the lowest survival rates. The role of neuronal death in the formation of cortical patterns was determined by assessing the survival of neurons in the barrels and septa of somatosensory cortex. No differences in the survival index were determined for neurons in the C-row barrels and adjacent septa with a particular time of origin. The survival rate of projection and local circuit neurons was determined with a double-labeling technique. One label, [3H]thymidine, was used to determine the time of origin of the neurons. The second label was used to identify the chemical or hodological characteristics of a neuron; projection neurons were labeled either by retrograde transport of horseradish peroxidase or by glutamate immunohistochemistry, and local circuit neurons were immunohistochemically identified with an antibody directed against gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) antibody.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid11539288, year = {1995}, author = {Cater, JP and Huffman, SD}, title = {Use of the Remote Access Virtual Environment Network (RAVEN) for coordinated IVA-EVA astronaut training and evaluation.}, journal = {Presence (Cambridge, Mass.)}, volume = {4}, number = {2}, pages = {103-109}, doi = {10.1162/pres.1995.4.2.103}, pmid = {11539288}, issn = {1054-7460}, mesh = {Astronauts/*education ; Astronomy/instrumentation ; *Computer Communication Networks ; *Computer Simulation ; Computer Systems ; Evaluation Studies as Topic ; *Extravehicular Activity ; Humans ; Space Flight/*instrumentation ; Space Simulation ; *User-Computer Interface ; }, abstract = {This paper presents a unique virtual reality training and assessment tool developed under a NASA grant, "Research in Human Factors Aspects of Enhanced Virtual Environments for Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Training and Simulation." The Remote Access Virtual Environment Network (RAVEN) was created to train and evaluate the verbal, mental and physical coordination required between the intravehicular (IVA) astronaut operating the Remote Manipulator System (RMS) arm and the EVA astronaut standing in foot restraints on the end of the RMS. The RAVEN system currently allows the EVA astronaut to approach the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) under control of the IVA astronaut and grasp, remove, and replace the Wide Field Planetary Camera drawer from its location in the HST. Two viewpoints, one stereoscopic and one monoscopic, were created all linked by Ethernet, that provided the two trainees with the appropriate training environments.}, }
@article {pmid7702129, year = {1995}, author = {Hill, PE}, title = {Go tell it on the mountain: Hilla Sheriff and public health in the South Carolina Piedmont, 1929 to 1940.}, journal = {American journal of public health}, volume = {85}, number = {4}, pages = {578-584}, pmid = {7702129}, issn = {0090-0036}, mesh = {Community Health Services/history ; History, 20th Century ; Pediatrics/history ; Pellagra/history ; Public Health/*history ; South Carolina ; State Government ; Women's Health Services/history ; }, abstract = {As director of the South Carolina units of the American Women's Hospitals and as the state's first female county health official, Hilla Sheriff combined elements of the Progressive Era's social gospel; the New Deal notion that concerned, public-spirited officials could make a difference; and a nascent feminism that led her into the controversial fields of family planning and nutrition. Sheriff's responses to endemic pellagra, innovative maternal and child health campaigns, and contraceptive research for the Milbank Memorial Fund attracted national attention and spawned programs based on her models throughout the South. Her ability to tailor programs to diverse communities--mothers who bore double burdens as textile workers, isolated farm families, mountaineers, and African Americans denied access to most health care facilities in the Jim Crow South--serves as a timeless example for those committed to community medicine.}, }
@article {pmid7560349, year = {1995}, author = {Bhawan, J and Andersen, W and Lee, J and Labadie, R and Solares, G}, title = {Photoaging versus intrinsic aging: a morphologic assessment of facial skin.}, journal = {Journal of cutaneous pathology}, volume = {22}, number = {2}, pages = {154-159}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-0560.1995.tb01399.x}, pmid = {7560349}, issn = {0303-6987}, mesh = {Aged ; Aging/*pathology ; Face/*pathology ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Prospective Studies ; Skin Diseases/*pathology ; Sunlight/*adverse effects ; }, abstract = {Histologic studies have become increasingly important in recognizing morphologic differences in photoaged versus intrinsically aged skin. Earlier histologic studies have attempted to evaluate these changes by examining anatomical sites which are not comparable, such as face and buttocks. As part of a multicenter study, we have quantitatively examined a panel of 16 histologic features in baseline facial skin biopsies from 158 women with moderate to severe photodamage. When compared to the postauricular area (photo protected), biopsies of the crow's feet area (photo exposed) had a twofold increase in melanocytes and a statistically significant increase in melanocytic atypia (p < .0001) and epidermal melanin (p < .0001). Other epidermal changes included reduced epidermal thickness (p < .01), more compact stratum corneum (p < .0001) and increased granular layer thickness (p < .0001) in the crow's feet skin. There was increased solar elastosis (p < .0001), dermal elastic tissue (p < .0001), melanophages (p < .0001), perivascular inflammation (p < .05) and perifollicular fibrosis (p < .01) but no change in the number of mast cells or dermal mucin in the photo exposed skin. Our data document quantitative differences in photoaged versus intrinsically aged facial skin and provides the groundwork for future studies to evaluate the efficacy of new treatments for photoaged skin.}, }
@article {pmid7768451, year = {1995}, author = {Orr, HA}, title = {Somatic mutation favors the evolution of diploidy.}, journal = {Genetics}, volume = {139}, number = {3}, pages = {1441-1447}, pmid = {7768451}, issn = {0016-6731}, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; *Diploidy ; Genes, Dominant/genetics ; Haploidy ; Mathematics ; Models, Genetic ; Mutation/*genetics ; Reproduction, Asexual/genetics ; }, abstract = {Explanation of diploidy have focused on advantages gained from masking deleterious mutations that are inherited. Recent theory has shown that these explanations are flawed. Indeed, we still lack any satisfactory explanation of diploidy in species that are asexual or that recombine only rarely. Here I consider a possibility first suggested by Efroimson in 1932, by Muller in 1964 and by Crow and Kimura in 1965: diploidy may provide protection against somatic, not inherited, mutations. I both compare the mean fitness of haploid and diploid populations that are asexual and investigate the invasion of "diploidy" alleles in sexual populations. When deleterious mutations are partially recessive and somatic mutation is sufficiently common, somatic mutation provides a clear advantage to diploidy in both asexual and sexual species.}, }
@article {pmid7759344, year = {1995}, author = {Lee, MB and Hezekiah, J and Watters, D}, title = {Rural women and power in Pakistan.}, journal = {Health care for women international}, volume = {16}, number = {2}, pages = {125-133}, doi = {10.1080/07399339509516164}, pmid = {7759344}, issn = {0739-9332}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Analysis of Variance ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Pakistan ; *Power, Psychological ; *Rural Population ; Self Concept ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Women/*psychology ; }, abstract = {Perceptions of power in women living in rural villages in Pakistan were explored. The Lee-Hezekiah Power Perception Scale was developed by the authors to measure women's perception of their power. The instrument was administered in interviews conducted by a group of Lady Health Visitors who were participating in a project funded by the Canadian International Development Agency. Sixty-nine women ranging in age from 20 to 65 were interviewed. One-way analysis of variance revealed that the oldest group perceived themselves to have more power than the youngest group perceived themselves to have. Stepwise multiple regression indicated that the number of male children a woman had was predictive of the amount of power she perceived herself to have. The results are discussed in relation to existing literature on women and power in developing countries. Implications for further research on women's perceptions of power and health are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid7699917, year = {1995}, author = {Hitoshi, S}, title = {[Crow-Fukase syndrome].}, journal = {Nihon rinsho. Japanese journal of clinical medicine}, volume = {53}, number = {3}, pages = {747-751}, pmid = {7699917}, issn = {0047-1852}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Male ; Multiple Myeloma ; *POEMS Syndrome ; }, abstract = {The association of polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal gammopathy, and skin changes forms a characteristic multisystem syndrome, Crow-Fukase syndrome, or acronym POEMS syndrome. The pathogenesis of the syndrome is still unknown. An M component found in more than three quarters of the patients appears not be the direct cause, because no evidence of deposition or interaction was observed in skin, peripheral nerve or endocrine organs with few exceptions. Solitary or multiple bone lesions, or plasmacytoma, are found in more than half of patients with Crow-Fukase syndrome. The nature of abnormal plasma cells of Crow-Fukase syndrome seems to be distinct from that of multiple myeloma. Substances elaborated by plasmacytoma cells are recently postulated as a pathogenesis of the disorder because of the finding that the Crow-Fukase syndrome may regress after resection or irradiation of solitary plasmacytoma, although a definite conclusion awaits further investigations.}, }
@article {pmid7598031, year = {1995}, author = {Mühlbauer, W and Fairley, J and van Wingerden, J}, title = {Mimetic modulation for problem creases of the face.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {19}, number = {2}, pages = {183-191}, pmid = {7598031}, issn = {0364-216X}, mesh = {Adult ; Electromyography ; Facial Muscles/physiopathology/*surgery ; Female ; Forehead/surgery ; Humans ; Hyperkinesis/physiopathology/surgery ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Paresis/physiopathology ; Paresthesia/physiopathology ; Postoperative Complications ; Recurrence ; *Skin Aging ; }, abstract = {Problem creases of the face such as frontal lines and frown lines, crow's feet, deep nasolabial and perioral folds, and cervical bands may be caused by the aging process, excessive exposure to the sun, disease, or genetic disposition. The condition may become aggravated by habitual hyperkinesia of certain mimetic muscles like the frontalis, corrugators, orbicularis oculi, levatores labii superioris, zygomatici, and the platysma. The diagnosis is established clinically by electromyography and selective muscle and nerve blocks. In these cases we advocate regulation of the mimetic hyperkinesia through selective myotomy, myectomy, and neurotomy of the responsible mimetic muscles (mimetic modulation). These procedures may be performed exclusively or in combination with a blepharoplasty, rhytidectomy, or other procedure. Our experience with 60 patients over the past five years (medium = 3.5 years) is presented. Problems and complications such as paresthesia and hypesthesia, partial paresis and asymmetry, incomplete correction, and recurrences are discussed. We believe that mimetic modulation is a valuable concept in treating problem creases and thereby improves the results of the aesthetic surgery of the face.}, }
@article {pmid7540906, year = {1995}, author = {Sönnichsen, FD and Sykes, BD and Davies, PL}, title = {Comparative modeling of the three-dimensional structure of type II antifreeze protein.}, journal = {Protein science : a publication of the Protein Society}, volume = {4}, number = {3}, pages = {460-471}, pmid = {7540906}, issn = {0961-8368}, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological ; Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Antifreeze Proteins ; Calcium-Binding Proteins/chemistry ; Carrier Proteins/chemistry ; Cell Adhesion Molecules/chemistry ; Computer Simulation ; Conserved Sequence ; Crystallography, X-Ray ; Disulfides/chemistry ; E-Selectin ; *Fishes ; *Freezing ; Glycoproteins/*chemistry ; Lithostathine ; Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy ; *Mannose-Binding Lectin ; Models, Molecular ; Molecular Sequence Data ; *Nerve Tissue Proteins ; Sequence Alignment ; Sequence Homology, Amino Acid ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; }, abstract = {Type II antifreeze proteins (AFP), which inhibit the growth of seed ice crystals in the blood of certain fishes (sea raven, herring, and smelt), are the largest known fish AFPs and the only class for which detailed structural information is not yet available. However, a sequence homology has been recognized between these proteins and the carbohydrate recognition domain of C-type lectins. The structure of this domain from rat mannose-binding protein (MBP-A) has been solved by X-ray crystallography (Weis WI, Drickamer K, Hendrickson WA, 1992, Nature 360:127-134) and provided the coordinates for constructing the three-dimensional model of the 129-amino acid Type II AFP from sea raven, to which it shows 19% sequence identity. Multiple sequence alignments between Type II AFPs, pancreatic stone protein, MBP-A, and as many as 50 carbohydrate-recognition domain sequences from various lectins were performed to determine reliably aligned sequence regions. Successive molecular dynamics and energy minimization calculations were used to relax bond lengths and angles and to identify flexible regions. The derived structure contains two alpha-helices, two beta-sheets, and a high proportion of amino acids in loops and turns. The model is in good agreement with preliminary NMR spectroscopic analyses. It explains the observed differences in calcium binding between sea raven Type II AFP and MBP-A. Furthermore, the model proposes the formation of five disulfide bridges between Cys 7 and Cys 18, Cys 35 and Cys 125, Cys 69 and Cys 100, Cys 89 and Cys 111, and Cys 101 and Cys 117.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid7876847, year = {1995}, author = {Pillon, B and Gouider-Khouja, N and Deweer, B and Vidailhet, M and Malapani, C and Dubois, B and Agid, Y}, title = {Neuropsychological pattern of striatonigral degeneration: comparison with Parkinson's disease and progressive supranuclear palsy.}, journal = {Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry}, volume = {58}, number = {2}, pages = {174-179}, pmid = {7876847}, issn = {0022-3050}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Corpus Striatum/*pathology ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Nerve Degeneration ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parkinson Disease/pathology/*psychology ; Substantia Nigra/*pathology ; Supranuclear Palsy, Progressive/pathology/*psychology ; }, abstract = {To study the neuropsychological pattern of striatonigral degeneration (SND), 14 consecutive patients with probable SND were submitted to an extensive battery of neuropsychological tests. Compared with controls the performance of patients with SND was impaired on category and phonemic fluency, frontal behaviours, trail making test A and B, and free recall of the Grober and Buschke test, but normal on the revised WAIS verbal scale, Raven 47 coloured progressive matrices, Wechsler memory scale, California verbal learning test, Wisconsin card sorting test, and the Stroop interference condition. The performance of patients with SND was also compared with that of 14 patients with Parkinson's disease and 14 patients with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) matched for age at onset, duration of disease, severity of intellectual deterioration, and depression. The results showed that the dysexecutive syndrome of SND is similar to that of Parkinson's disease and less severe than in PSP.}, }
@article {pmid7668808, year = {1995}, author = {Ascher, B and Klap, P and Marion, MH and Chanteloub, F}, title = {[Botulinum toxin in the treatment of frontoglabellar and periorbital wrinkles. An initial study].}, journal = {Annales de chirurgie plastique et esthetique}, volume = {40}, number = {1}, pages = {67-76}, pmid = {7668808}, issn = {0294-1260}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins/*administration &amp; dosage ; Female ; Forehead ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular ; Middle Aged ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; }, abstract = {Glabellar frown lines and crow's feet are wrinkles of facial expression related to an underlying muscular activity, which is particularly strong during facial expression. Classic treatments of these wrinkles only give partially satisfactory are associated with results, and secondary effects, whether they involve skin and muscle lifting, surgical section of muscles, dermal stimulation by thread or injectable fillers, chemical or mechanical abrasion, transient or permanent soft tissue augmentation with various materials. The authors studied the efficacy and safety of intramuscular injections botulinum A Exotoxin in glabellar and crow's feet areas in 19 well-informed and consenting patients. Botulinum toxin injections have been used since 1980 in the treatment of focal dystonia (blepharospasm, oromandibular dystonia, spasmodic torticollis, spasmodic dysphonia and writer's cramp) and safety hemifacial spasm. Their wide use in these indications has highlighted their excellent and efficacy, and the need to repeat injections every 3 to 4 months. The dose required was progressively adjusted around glabellar and orbital areas, while injections of the peri-buccal and forehead areas are still being evaluated. The 19 patients were examined clinically, filmed and photographed every month over a period of 12 to 24 months, and skin prints were performed. Evaluation criteria included the percentage improvement as assessed by the patients themselves, and also evaluation by the investigators of the data of clinical examination, and blind comparison of photographic, videoscopic, and prints. The authors obtained a significant decrease of wrinkles of the areas studied, with a "smoothing" effect during the period of activity of the toxin, which lased an average of 3 to 4 months at the beginning, and 6 to 9 months after several injections. No secondary effects, either general or local, were observed. The product's specificity means that the operator must have a complete mastery of the injection technique and a thorough knowledge of its pharmacology.}, }
@article {pmid10134008, year = {1994}, author = {Rockefeller, JD}, title = {VIP interview: John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, United States Senator.}, journal = {Managed care quarterly}, volume = {2}, number = {2}, pages = {90-91}, pmid = {10134008}, issn = {1064-5454}, mesh = {Competitive Medical Plans/organization &amp; administration ; Health Benefit Plans, Employee/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Health Care Reform/*economics/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Insurance, Psychiatric/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Managed Care Programs/organization &amp; administration ; Mental Health Services/*economics ; Policy Making ; Politics ; United States ; West Virginia ; }, abstract = {John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV has proudly served the people of West Virginia for nearly 30 years. After coming to the town of Emmons in 1964 as a VISTA worker, Jay Rockefeller made the Mountain State his home. In 1966, he was elected to a two-year term in the West Virginia House of Delegates. He then served four years as Secretary of State, three years as President of West Virginia Wesleyan College, and eight years as Governor of West Virginia. In 1984, he was elected to the United States Senate and was reelected in 1990.}, }
@article {pmid8830000, year = {1995}, author = {Azizi, F and Kalani, H and Kimiagar, M and Ghazi, A and Sarshar, A and Nafarabadi, M and Rahbar, N and Noohi, S and Mohajer, M and Yassai, M}, title = {Physical, neuromotor and intellectual impairment in non-cretinous schoolchildren with iodine deficiency.}, journal = {International journal for vitamin and nutrition research. Internationale Zeitschrift fur Vitamin- und Ernahrungsforschung. Journal international de vitaminologie et de nutrition}, volume = {65}, number = {3}, pages = {199-205}, pmid = {8830000}, issn = {0300-9831}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Female ; Goiter/etiology ; Growth Disorders/etiology ; Hearing Disorders/etiology ; Humans ; Iodine/*deficiency ; Iran ; Male ; Nervous System Diseases/*etiology ; Psychomotor Disorders/*etiology ; Thyroid Gland/physiopathology ; Thyroid Hormones/blood ; Thyrotropin/blood ; }, abstract = {Thyroid status and neurologic, psychometric and auditory functions were evaluated in presumably normal schoolchildren aged 6 to 16 years from three areas of iodine deficiency in Iran. The subjects from each area were identified as members of groups A, B or C. In group A there were retarded growth, high prevalence of visible goiter (93%), low T4 (39%) and high TSH (70%). In group B 66% had a visible goiter and 7% had high serum TSH. In group C visible goiter was present in 22% of the subjects but they had normal thyroid function. Urinary iodine excretion was low in all three groups. Head circumference was less in groups A and B, as compared to C. Pyramidal signs occurred in over half of the subjects in Group A (hyperreflexia in 39% and crossed adductor reflex in 29%). The glabellar sign was present in 50% of group A and 20% of group B. Forty-four percent of the subjects in group A and 17% in group B had hearing deficits as shown by audiometry. Psychomotor examination was performed using the Bender Gestalt test. A higher number of errors was evident in groups A and B their psychomotor age was below their chronological age. The results of the Raven test showed mild impairment of IQ in group A, with 55% having an IQ below 91 and 15% less than 70. The subjects in group B had lower IQ than group C, but higher than group A. There was a negative correlation between serum TSH and free thyroid indices and a positive correlation between TSH and the number of pyramidal signs. This study demonstrates that mild to moderate growth retardation and neurological, auditory and psychomotor impairments occur in apparently normal subjects residing in areas of iodine deficiency.}, }
@article {pmid8591800, year = {1995}, author = {Vingerhoets, F and Kuntzer, T and Delacrétaz,  and Steck, AJ and Knecht, H and Bogousslavsky, J and Meier, C and Regli, F}, title = {Chronic relapsing neuropathy associated with Castleman's disease (angiofollicular lymph node hyperplasia).}, journal = {European neurology}, volume = {35}, number = {6}, pages = {336-340}, doi = {10.1159/000117156}, pmid = {8591800}, issn = {0014-3022}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Asthenia/etiology ; Biopsy ; Castleman Disease/*complications/pathology ; Chronic Disease ; DNA, Viral/analysis ; Demyelinating Diseases/*complications/pathology/virology ; Electrophysiology ; Herpesvirus 4, Human/genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; Humans ; Lymph Nodes/pathology/virology ; Male ; Mesentery ; Recurrence ; Sural Nerve/pathology ; }, abstract = {We report a 17-year-old patient who presented a chronic relapsing sensorimotor demyelinating neuropathy with 6 relapses over a 7-year period, preceding by 4 years the diagnosis of a multicentric angiofollicular lymph node hyperplasia. A role for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) as a trigger of the neuropathy may be suggested by the presence of EBV DNA in the biopsied abdominal abdominal adenopathies. This unusual reported association seems to have a better prognosis than the known chronic progressive form of neuropathy associated with Castleman's disease and the Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid7809273, year = {1995}, author = {Cuadros, CL and Driscoll, CL and Rothkopf, DM}, title = {The anatomy of the lower serratus anterior muscle: a fresh cadaver study.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {95}, number = {1}, pages = {93-7; discussion 98-9}, pmid = {7809273}, issn = {0032-1052}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Cadaver ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Muscles/*anatomy &amp; histology/blood supply ; *Surgical Flaps ; Thorax ; }, abstract = {Forty fresh cadaver dissections were studied to determine variations in the anatomy of the lower portion of the serratus anterior muscle. In all cases, the lower three to five slips of the serratus anterior muscle were supplied by one to three branches from the thoracodorsal artery, the so-called serratus branches. Three vascular patterns were identified: type I with one branch (40 percent), type II with two branches (50 percent), and type III with three branches (10 percent). The mean dimensions of the lower serratus anterior flap were 18.0 x 9.0 cm (range 12.0 x 8.0 cm to 21.0 x 15.0 cm). The mean pedicle length was 11.3 +/- 2.8 cm (range 7.3 to 13.3 cm). A crow's foot landmark has been identified to facilitate flap dissection. This landmark marks the juncture of the long thoracic nerve and the dominant serratus branch. This juncture can be found at the superior border of the sixth or seventh rib. The lower serratus anterior flap is ideal for reconstruction of small to moderate-sized defects because of its flat, broad dimensions and its long vascular pedicle.}, }
@article {pmid7778398, year = {1995}, author = {Kozlova, IA and Pukhovskiĭ, AA and Riabukhin, VIu}, title = {[The psychological and psychiatric study of children living in Kaluga and Bryansk provinces, Russia (the aftermath of the Chernobyl accident)].}, journal = {Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova}, volume = {95}, number = {1}, pages = {70-74}, pmid = {7778398}, issn = {1997-7298}, mesh = {Child ; Environmental Exposure/*adverse effects/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Humans ; Japan ; Nuclear Warfare ; Parents/psychology ; *Power Plants ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychological Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Psychology, Child/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Radioactive Hazard Release/*psychology/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Russia ; Ukraine ; }, abstract = {According to WHO project "Brain Damage in Utero" in the framework of the screening phase of the programme, 1025 children (725 in experimental group-Novozybkov and Klintsy towns of Bryansk region; 300 in control group--Obninsk town of Kaluga region) and 600 parents (300 in experimental group and 300 in control group) were studied using standardized methods of psychological psychiatric assessment (Draw-a-man test, British picture vocabulary test, Raven coloured matrices, Parental and teacher Rutter Scales, CHQ-28, Verbal subtest of Wechsler test) for potential psychological and psychiatric effects of Chernobyl accident on child's intelligence, behavioural and emotional state, mental health of parents and parental intellectual level. The following results were obtained: comparison of verbal IQ scores in children revealed a 6-fold increase of these values in experiment group. Comparison of nonverbal IQ scores in children revealed that these values are 4 times higher in experimental group. Comparison of scores according to Rutter parental and teacher scales revealed that emotional and behavioural disorders are 1.5 times more prevalent in children of experimental group. All the above differences were statistically significant. Comparison of CHQ-28 scores was indicative of relative prevalence of these values in parents of experimental group, but there was no statistically significant difference between such score in experimental and control groups. Comparison of scores of parental IQ showed relative prevalence of these values in experimental group. The results obtained can not be completely estimated without thorough identification of individual doses received by mothers and their children. Only after obtaining these data it will be possible to solve the problem of dose effect.}, }
@article {pmid7643327, year = {1995}, author = {Dillenberg, J}, title = {1994 Special Merit Award: Jay W. Friedman, DDS, MPH.}, journal = {Journal of public health dentistry}, volume = {55}, number = {2}, pages = {110}, doi = {10.1111/j.1752-7325.1995.tb02347.x}, pmid = {7643327}, issn = {0022-4006}, mesh = {*Awards and Prizes ; History, 20th Century ; *Public Health Dentistry/history ; Societies, Dental ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid7591376, year = {1995}, author = {Musolino, SV}, title = {Comments on "Breast cancer: evidence for a relation to fission products in the diet".}, journal = {International journal of health services : planning, administration, evaluation}, volume = {25}, number = {3}, pages = {475-80; discussion 481-8}, doi = {10.2190/0Y05-MRGU-VY2E-DGF3}, pmid = {7591376}, issn = {0020-7314}, mesh = {Air Pollutants, Radioactive/*adverse effects ; Bias ; Breast Neoplasms/*etiology/mortality ; Data Interpretation, Statistical ; Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation ; Female ; *Food Contamination, Radioactive ; Humans ; Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced/*etiology/mortality ; Power Plants ; Risk Factors ; Survival Analysis ; United States ; }, abstract = {For over 30 years, Ernest Sternglass (recently joined by Jay Gould) has claimed that large occurrences of health effects result from small exposures to ionizing radiation. A recent study published in the Journal claimed to show a "supralinear" dose-effect relationship versus curies per million persons. The authors of this article show that Sternglass and Gould did not follow accepted scientific methods, never calculated the dose equivalent to the population studied, misinterpreted the raw data, and did not evaluate any possible confounding factors that could influence the observed breast cancer mortality. The reanalysis of the raw data shows that, while there may have been changes in the mortality patterns from breast cancer in the four geographical regions reported, Sternglass and Gould failed to demonstrate a relationship between the operational histories of the Haddam Neck, Millstone, and Indian Point reactors and breast cancer mortality.}, }
@article {pmid7541600, year = {1995}, author = {von Knorring, L and Lindström, E}, title = {Principal components and further possibilities with the PANSS.}, journal = {Acta psychiatrica Scandinavica. Supplementum}, volume = {388}, number = {}, pages = {5-10}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-0447.1995.tb05937.x}, pmid = {7541600}, issn = {0065-1591}, mesh = {Affective Symptoms/classification/*diagnosis/drug therapy/psychology ; Antipsychotic Agents/therapeutic use ; Humans ; Isoxazoles/therapeutic use ; Piperidines/therapeutic use ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; Risperidone ; Schizophrenia/classification/*diagnosis/drug therapy ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {At the end of the last century, Hughlings-Jackson suggested that positive and negative syndromes should be kept apart in psychotic disorders. When the concepts of dementia praecox and schizophrenia were introduced by Kraepelin and Bleuler, emphasis was laid on the negative symptoms, regarded as fundamental. After the introduction of the "first rank symptoms" by Schneider emphasis switched to the positive symptoms in schizophrenia and these symptoms were included in most diagnostic criteria. In the 1980s Andreasen and Crow suggested a dichotomy into positive and negative syndromes in schizophrenia. Kay and co-workers introduced a Positive And Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) for schizophrenia. In the original studies satisfactory construct validity and inter-rater reliability were demonstrated. However, in studies outside the USA a high construct validity was found for the negative scales but not for the positive and general psychopathology scales. Furthermore, the inter-rater reliability of the negative scale was a problem. After introduction of the Structured Clinical Interview for the PANSS (SCI-PANSS) the inter-rater reliability increased for all three scales. In an early study Kay and Sevy found seven factors in a principal component analysis of the PANSS and suggested a four factor pyramidical model. Later principal component analyses by Lepine, Peralta et al. and Kawasaki et al. suggested that the four factor model was an oversimplification and Lindström and von Knorring suggested a five factor pyramidical model. A similar model was later suggested by Bell et al. after a reanalysis of the original series of Kay and Sevy.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid7484019, year = {1995}, author = {Atsumi, T and Kato, K and Kurosawa, S and Abe, M and Fujisaku, A}, title = {A case of Crow-Fukase syndrome with elevated soluble interleukin-6 receptor in cerebrospinal fluid. Response to double-filtration plasmapheresis and corticosteroids.}, journal = {Acta haematologica}, volume = {94}, number = {2}, pages = {90-94}, doi = {10.1159/000203980}, pmid = {7484019}, issn = {0001-5792}, mesh = {Adult ; Combined Modality Therapy ; Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use ; Humans ; Interleukin-6/*cerebrospinal fluid/metabolism ; Male ; POEMS Syndrome/*cerebrospinal fluid/metabolism/*therapy ; Plasmapheresis ; Receptors, Interleukin/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {We report the case of a 33-year-old Japanese male who presented with thrombocytosis, lower limb edema, severe polyneuropathy with elevated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein level and serum IgA lambda monoclonal component, fulfilling the manifestations of Crow-Fukase syndrome. A high level of soluble interleukin-6 receptor in the CSF was also found, which fluctuated in parallel with the clinical course. Initial treatment with double-filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) reduced the serum IgA paraprotein level with improvement of the sensory component of the polyneuropathy and decrease of soluble interleukin-6 receptor in the CSF. The remaining clinical features waned off after steroid treatment. The possible role of interleukin-6 in the pathogenesis of the Crow-Fukase syndrome and the utility of DFPP treatment are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid7887490, year = {1994}, author = {Braekevelt, CR}, title = {Retinal photoreceptor fine structure in the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos).}, journal = {Anatomia, histologia, embryologia}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {376-387}, doi = {10.1111/j.1439-0264.1994.tb00488.x}, pmid = {7887490}, issn = {0340-2096}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Microscopy, Electron/veterinary ; Photoreceptor Cells/*ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {The morphology of the light-adapted retinal photoreceptors of the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) has been investigated by light and electron microscopy. They consist of rods, single cones and double (unequal) cones present in a ratio of about 4:3:3 respectively. The rods are stout cells with a long inner segment and an outer segment that reaches to the RPE cell body. In the light-adapted state, the pigment-laden apical processes of the RPE cells surround cell photoreceptor types for most of their length. The rod inner segment displays an ellipsoid of mitochondria, a large hyperboloid of glycogen, much RER, numerous polysomes, Golgi zones and autophagic vacuoles. Single cones show a slightly tapered outer segment, a large and usually heterogeneous oil droplet and an ellipsoid of mitochondria at the apex of the inner segment. Double cones consist of a longer, stouter chief member which displays a more homogeneous oil droplet and a prominent paraboloid of glycogen and a slightly shorter and thinner accessory member with no oil droplet or paraboloid. Both members of the double cone as well as the single cones show a prominent ellipsoid and plentiful polysomes, RER and Golgi zones in the inner segment. Along the length of the contiguous membranes of the two members of the double cone are presumed interreceptor junctions. All cone photoreceptors are relatively small in diameter and hence are tightly packed. Judging by their morphology in the light-adapted state neither rods nor cones are felt to undergo photomechanical movements in this species. Rods and cones (both types) display both invaginated (ribbon) synapses as well as numerous flat (conventional) synaptic sites.}, }
@article {pmid7887489, year = {1994}, author = {Braekevelt, CR}, title = {Retinal pigment epithelial fine structure in the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos).}, journal = {Anatomia, histologia, embryologia}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {367-375}, doi = {10.1111/j.1439-0264.1994.tb00487.x}, pmid = {7887489}, issn = {0340-2096}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Capillaries/ultrastructure ; Endoplasmic Reticulum/ultrastructure ; Melanocytes/ultrastructure ; Microscopy, Electron/veterinary ; Mitochondria/ultrastructure ; Pigment Epithelium of Eye/blood supply/*ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {The fine structure of the retinal epithelial (RPE) region has been investigated by light and electron microscopy in the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos). In this species the RPE consists of a single layer of cuboidal cells which display numerous deep basal (scleral) infoldings and plentiful apical (vitreal) microvillar processes which surround photoreceptor inner and outer segments. The RPE cells are joined laterally by a series of tight junctions (Verhoeff's membrane) located in the mid to basal region. Within the epithelial cells, smooth endoplasmic reticulum is very abundant while rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) is scarce. Mitochondria of various shapes are abundant basally while polysomes are plentiful and widespread. In the light-adapted state RPE nuclei are large and vesicular and basally located while the melanosomes of these cells are predominantly located with the apical processes indicating photomechanical movements. Myeloid bodies are large and numerous and often have ribosomes on their outer surface. Bruch's membrane (complexus basalis) is typical of avian species in that it is pentalaminate and the lamina densa is displaced near the choriocapillaris. The endothelium of the choriocapillaris is thin facing Bruch's membrane but is only moderately fenestrated. Some of these fenestrations display a double-layered diaphragm while the majority show the more typical single-layered diaphragm noted in most species.}, }
@article {pmid7887488, year = {1994}, author = {Braekevelt, CR}, title = {Fine structure of the pecten oculi in the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos).}, journal = {Anatomia, histologia, embryologia}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {357-366}, doi = {10.1111/j.1439-0264.1994.tb00486.x}, pmid = {7887488}, issn = {0340-2096}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Capillaries/ultrastructure ; Microscopy, Electron/veterinary ; Retinal Vessels/*ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {The pecten oculi of the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) has been examined by both light and electron microscopy. In this species the pecten is very large and of the pleated type. It consists of 22-25 accordion folds that are joined apically by a bridge of tissue which holds the pecten in a fan-like shape widest at its base. Within each fold are numerous capillaries, larger supply and drainage vessels and many melanocytes. The capillaries are extremely specialized for transport functions and display extensive microfolds on both their luminal and abluminal borders. Except for the nuclear region which contains most of the organelles, the endothelial cell bodies are extremely thin. These capillaries are surrounded by thick fibrillar basal laminae which are conjectured to be structurally important. Pericytes are a common feature of these capillaries. The numerous pleomorphic melanocytes interspersed between the capillaries are also felt to be important in structural support of the pecten. The pecten is considered to be comparable to the falciform process of some teleosts, the conus papillaris of reptiles, the supraretinal vessels of amphibians and teleosts and the intraretinal vessels of mammals which are all felt to be alternative methods of bringing nutrients to the inner retina.}, }
@article {pmid7814754, year = {1994}, author = {Thompson, JY and Anusavice, KJ and Naman, A and Morris, HF}, title = {Fracture surface characterization of clinically failed all-ceramic crowns.}, journal = {Journal of dental research}, volume = {73}, number = {12}, pages = {1824-1832}, doi = {10.1177/00220345940730120601}, pmid = {7814754}, issn = {0022-0345}, support = {DE09307/DE/NIDCR NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Aluminum Oxide/chemistry ; Chemical Phenomena ; Chemistry, Physical ; *Crowns ; Dental Porcelain/*chemistry ; Dental Stress Analysis ; Hardness ; Humans ; Materials Testing ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Porosity ; Prosthesis Failure ; Surface Properties ; }, abstract = {The goal of this study was to establish a protocol for the retrieval and fractographic analysis of failed restorations, and to compare the fracture surface features of clinically failed ceramic restorations and with those of controlled laboratory test specimens fabricated from the same materials. Ten fractured Dicor crowns and 12 fractured Cerestore crows were retrieved and analyzed. Optical microscopy of the failed crowns revealed that the critical segments of nine of the 10 (90%) Dicor crowns and nine of the 12 (75%) Cerestore crowns were acceptable for fractographic analysis. Twelve disks of each material were fabricated as controls and fractured by bi-axial flexure for analysis of the similarities and/or differences between the fractographic features of fractured clinical crowns and the disks. Each of the 10 Dicor crowns was observed to fail along the internal surface. For 78% of the Cerestore crowns, failure initiation occurred at the porcelain/core interface or inside the core material. Critical flaw sizes of the failed Dicor crowns ranged from 127 to 272 microns. Failure stresses of the Dicor crowns, estimated by fractographic techniques and fracture mechanics relationships, ranged from 65 to 94 MPa. Estimated failure stresses for two of the Cerestore crowns which had failure initiation sites in the porcelain layer were 15 and 68 MPa. It is concluded that the fracture initiation sites of dental ceramics are controlled primarily by the location and size of the critical flaw, and not by specimen thickness.}, }
@article {pmid7813195, year = {1994}, author = {Kamil, AC and Balda, RP and Olson, DJ}, title = {Performance of four seed-caching corvid species in the radial-arm maze analog.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {108}, number = {4}, pages = {385-393}, doi = {10.1037/0735-7036.108.4.385}, pmid = {7813195}, issn = {0735-7036}, support = {MH44200/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; *Birds ; Feeding Behavior ; Habituation, Psychophysiologic ; Learning ; Memory ; Space Perception ; *Spatial Behavior ; *Task Performance and Analysis ; }, abstract = {Four seed-caching corvid species were tested in an open-room analog of the radial-arm maze. During Experiment 1, the species more dependent on stored food. Clark's nutcrackers (Nucifraga columbiana) and pinyon jays (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus), acquired the task more quickly and to higher accuracy levels than either scrub jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) or Mexican jays (A. ultramarina). During Experiment 2, performance after retention intervals was tested. When intervals of 30-210 min were tested in ascending order, species differences observed during acquisition were again obtained. However, when intervals of 5-300 min were tested in random order, the species differed only at shorter intervals. During Experiment 3, only nutcrackers gave any indication of performing above chance after a 24-hr retention intervals. Results support the hypothesis of species differences in spatial information processing that correlate with dependence on stored food.}, }
@article {pmid7696416, year = {1994}, author = {Nasu, T and Nakai, M and Murakami, N}, title = {Vascularization of the pineal gland in the crow.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {56}, number = {6}, pages = {1185-1186}, doi = {10.1292/jvms.56.1185}, pmid = {7696416}, issn = {0916-7250}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Corrosion Casting/veterinary ; Female ; Male ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning/veterinary ; Pineal Gland/*blood supply ; }, abstract = {The blood vascularization in the pineal gland of the crow was investigated in detail using a vascular corrosion cast technique and by scanning electron microscopy. The pineal gland received two afferent arteries on either side, each artery arising from the A. cerebralis caudalis (CC) which supplied its branches to the hemisphere. The pineal gland of the crow was so highly vascularized as to be suggestive of its high metabolic and endocrine activities. The efferent veins drained into the Sinus occipitalis and the Sinus sagittalis dorsalis. There was a direct vascular connection between capillaries of the stalk of the gland and those of the Plexus choroideus.}, }
@article {pmid7892431, year = {1994}, author = {Stough, C and Mangan, G and Bates, T and Pellett, O}, title = {Smoking and Raven IQ.}, journal = {Psychopharmacology}, volume = {116}, number = {3}, pages = {382-384}, pmid = {7892431}, issn = {0033-3158}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Autonomic Pathways/drug effects/physiology ; Decision Making/drug effects ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Parasympathetic Nervous System/drug effects/physiology ; Receptors, Nicotinic/drug effects ; Smoking/*psychology ; }, abstract = {Nicotine has recently been shown to enhance measures of information processing speed including the decision time (DT) component of simple and choice reaction time and the string length measure of evoked potential waveform complexity. Both (DT and string length) have been previously demonstrated to correlate with performance on standard intelligence tests (IQ). We therefore hypothesised that nicotine is acting to improve intellectual performance on the elementary information processing correlates of IQ. In the current experiment we tested this hypothesis using the Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM) test. APM scores were significantly higher in the smoking session compared to the non-smoking session, suggesting that nicotine acts to enhance physiological processes underlying performance on intellectual tasks.}, }
@article {pmid7879454, year = {1994}, author = {Golubeva, TB}, title = {[A delay in the development of hearing and a shift in the leading afferentation in the early behavioral ontogeny of birds].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {44}, number = {6}, pages = {992-1003}, pmid = {7879454}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation/instrumentation/methods ; Afferent Pathways/physiology ; Animals ; Animals, Newborn ; Auditory Threshold/physiology ; Birds/embryology/*physiology ; Cochlear Microphonic Potentials/physiology ; Electrodes, Implanted ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Hearing/*physiology ; Vision, Ocular/physiology ; }, abstract = {Development of auditory sensitivity was studied by recording microphonic component of cochlear potentials during the period of opening the eyes in 6 species of birds with different types of ontogeny (Anas plathyrynchos, Larus canus and L. argentatus, Sterna paradisaea, Coloeus monedula and Corvus frugeleus). The onset of opening the eyes is accompanied by a delay in development of auditory sensitivity and temporary decrease of upper frequency limit of the audible range. Before such a delay acoustic afferentation is leading in feeding behaviour or in response of following in nestlings or chicks. After the period of delay pure tones lose the efficacy in eliciting feeding and following reactions, and the correlation between the low-frequency range of increased sensitivity and the efficacy of pure tone signals disappears, while the new peak of sensitivity appears which fits the maximal energetic component of the parental acoustic signals. It seems possible that the delay may be the result of brain temperature decrease while eyes open the thermoregulation being unstable. Such a delay may facilitate also the substitution of acoustic afferentation for visual in the main behavioural responses in early ontogeny.}, }
@article {pmid7874042, year = {1994}, author = {van den Broek, MD and Bradshaw, CM}, title = {Detection of acquired deficits in general intelligence using the National Adult Reading Test and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {The British journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {33}, number = {4}, pages = {509-515}, doi = {10.1111/j.2044-8260.1994.tb01147.x}, pmid = {7874042}, issn = {0144-6657}, mesh = {Adult ; Brain Diseases/*complications/physiopathology ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis/*etiology ; Female ; Functional Laterality ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; *Reading ; }, abstract = {A multiple regression equation for estimating premorbid Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) scores on the basis of age and the National Adult Reading Test (NART) was derived. A sample of patients with confirmed cerebral lesions was examined to determine the proportion of patients with significant discrepancies between their predicted and obtained RSPM performance. The sensitivity of the procedure was modest (52 per cent), although a comparison with discrepancies between premorbid and current performance on the Wechsler scales indicated that the RSPM was more sensitive to neuropathology. These findings suggest that when NART-intelligence test comparisons are used to diagnose cerebral impairment, the likelihood of a false-negative diagnosis is high.}, }
@article {pmid7832614, year = {1994}, author = {Grellner, W and Madea, B}, title = {["Crows' feet wrinkles" in high voltage electric accident--a sign of survival?].}, journal = {Archiv fur Kriminologie}, volume = {194}, number = {5-6}, pages = {164-170}, pmid = {7832614}, issn = {0003-9225}, mesh = {Accidents, Occupational/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Adult ; Burns, Electric/pathology ; Electric Injuries/*pathology ; Facial Muscles/*pathology ; Humans ; Male ; Muscle Contraction/*physiology ; *Postmortem Changes ; Skin/pathology ; }, abstract = {A "crowsfoot-like" pattern is considered as being a sign of vitality in fatalities due to the effects of smoke, fire or high voltage (active or reflex contraction of mimic muscles). Introducing the autopsy results of a high voltage accident (66,600 V) it is discussed, whether this phenomenon and the underlying contraction of the facial muscles could also be caused by electrical current in the agony or supravital period. It seems possible that this mechanism of direct muscle contraction anticipates a nerval indirect stimulation of muscle fibres by innervating motoneurones--active or on the basis of a polysynaptic extraneous reflex. If the electrophysiological course discussed should be right, a "crowsfoot-like" pattern in equivalent cases could be interpreted as a vital sign only with great reserve.}, }
@article {pmid7845480, year = {1994}, author = {Amos, GJ and Ravens, U}, title = {The inotropic agents DPI 201-106 and BDF 9148 differentially affect potassium currents of guinea-pig ventricular myocytes.}, journal = {Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology}, volume = {350}, number = {4}, pages = {426-433}, pmid = {7845480}, issn = {0028-1298}, mesh = {Action Potentials/drug effects ; Animals ; Azetidines/*pharmacology ; Cardiotonic Agents/*pharmacology ; Cell Membrane/drug effects/metabolism ; Guinea Pigs ; Heart Ventricles/cytology/*drug effects ; In Vitro Techniques ; Indoles/*pharmacology ; Myocardial Contraction/drug effects ; Myocardium/metabolism ; Patch-Clamp Techniques ; Piperazines/*pharmacology ; Potassium/*metabolism ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; }, abstract = {The inotropic agents DPI 201-106 and BDF 9148 increase action potential duration (APD) of heart muscle. This effect can be explained by inhibition of inactivation of sodium current, which is affected by both agents to a similar extent (Ravens et al. 1991, Br J Pharmacol 104:1019-1023). However, as DPI 201-106 prolongs APD of guinea-pig ventricle to a larger extent than BDF 9148, other currents may also be involved. The aim of the present study was to measure the effects of DPI 201-106 and BDF 9148 on the inward rectifier IK1, and the two components of the delayed rectifier, IKs and IKr. The methyl-for-carbonitrile-substituted derivative BDF 8784 was included to study structure-activity relationships. Single-electrode whole-cell voltage-clamp technique was used to measure membrane currents of guinea-pig ventricular myocytes. Only DPI 201-106 reduced IK1 at potentials both negative and positive to the reversal potential. Three microM of DPI 201-106 reduced IKs, whereas 1 microM of BDF 9148 had no effect on this current. These concentrations were equieffective with respect to positive inotropic action (Ravens et al. 1991, Br J Pharmacol 104:1019-1023). BDF 9148 did however block IKs at higher concentrations, as did BDF 8784. It is concluded that block of outward current by DPI 201-106, but insignificant effects of BDF 9148, are responsible for the differential effects of these compounds on APD at equieffective concentrations with respect to inotropy.}, }
@article {pmid7945337, year = {1994}, author = {Duncker, BP and Gauthier, SY and Davies, PL}, title = {Cystine-rich fish antifreeze is produced as an active proprotein precursor in fall armyworm cells.}, journal = {Biochemical and biophysical research communications}, volume = {203}, number = {3}, pages = {1851-1857}, doi = {10.1006/bbrc.1994.2403}, pmid = {7945337}, issn = {0006-291X}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Antifreeze Proteins ; *Antifreeze Proteins, Type II ; Base Sequence ; Carrier Proteins/*biosynthesis/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification ; Cell Line ; DNA Primers ; Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel ; Fishes/*metabolism ; Freezing ; Glycoproteins/*biosynthesis/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification ; Kinetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Protein Biosynthesis ; Protein Precursors/*biosynthesis/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification ; Recombinant Proteins/biosynthesis/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification ; Spodoptera ; Transfection ; }, abstract = {Recombinant cystine-rich fish antifreeze protein (AFP) was produced by fall armyworm cells from a baculovirus expression vector containing sea raven AFP cDNA. The natural signal sequence encoded in the cDNA directed secretion of the antifreeze into the medium, from where it was recovered and purified to homogeneity. The M(r) of the exported protein (16k), as determined by SDS-PAGE, was larger than that (14k) of mature AFP isolated from sea raven serum. Sequencing of the recombinant AFP showed that it had a 17-amino-acid extension N-terminal to the 129-amino-acid mature AFP that began where signal peptide cleavage should occur according to current algorithms. Recombinant proAFP had antifreeze activity equivalent to that of the mature AFP, which indicates that the disulfide bonds were correctly formed and that the ice-binding site on the antifreeze is not sterically hindered by the 17-amino-acid N-terminal extension.}, }
@article {pmid7929066, year = {1994}, author = {Askew, GR and Lingrel, JB}, title = {Identification of an amino acid substitution in human alpha 1 Na,K-ATPase which confers differentially reduced affinity for two related cardiac glycosides.}, journal = {The Journal of biological chemistry}, volume = {269}, number = {39}, pages = {24120-24126}, pmid = {7929066}, issn = {0021-9258}, support = {HL 41496/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Amino Acids/genetics/*metabolism ; Base Sequence ; Cardiac Glycosides/*metabolism ; DNA, Complementary ; Digitoxin/pharmacology ; Digoxin/pharmacology ; HeLa Cells ; Humans ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phenotype ; Sodium-Potassium-Exchanging ATPase/antagonists &amp; inhibitors/genetics/*metabolism ; Substrate Specificity ; }, abstract = {The ouabain-resistant cell line H1C1 displays a 30-fold differential of reduced sensitivity to the structurally related cardiac glycosides digoxin and digitoxin (Baker, R. M. (1976) in Biogenesis and Turnover of Membrane Macromolecules (Cook, J.S., ed) pp. 93-103, Raven Press, New York). Since these ligand congeners differ only by the presence of a hydroxyl group at C-12 of digoxin we predicted that the H1C1 phenotype must reflect a mutation which alters the binding site of the cardiac glycoside receptor (Na,K-ATPase). Complementary DNA encoding the alpha 1 Na,K-ATPase was prepared from H1C1 cell total RNA by reverse transcription-coupled polymerase chain reaction and these cDNAs were cloned. Sequence analysis of the reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction clones revealed several independent isolates containing a G > A transition at nucleotide 332 of the propeptide coding sequence, generating the amino acid substitution C108Y. The ability of this substitution to confer differential sensitivity for digoxin and digitoxin was tested and confirmed by expressing a human alpha 1 C108Y-Na,K-ATPase in wild type HeLa cells and assaying for inhibition of cell growth and inhibition of Na,K-ATPase activity. Phenylalanine or alanine substitutions of this cysteine also confer this pattern of ligand discrimination. Ouabain-resistant Na,K-ATPase substitutions, at positions other than Cys-108 failed to exhibit differential sensitivity indicating that this ligand discrimination is unique to Cys-108 substitutions rather than a general property of cardiac glycoside-resistant mutants. It is proposed that differential resistance of the C108Y receptor for these ligands is a consequence of altering two features of the ligand-receptor interaction; one, a disruption of a common hydrogen bond resulting in general loss of affinity for cardiac glycosides and the other, formation of a new H-bond between the C-12 hydroxyl of digoxin and the receptor, specifically augmenting the stability of this ligand-receptor complex.}, }
@article {pmid7993958, year = {1994}, author = {Wolkin, A and Sanfilipo, M and Angrist, B and Duncan, E and Wieland, S and Wolf, AP and Brodie, JD and Cooper, TB and Laska, E and Rotrosen, JP}, title = {Acute d-amphetamine challenge in schizophrenia: effects on cerebral glucose utilization and clinical symptomatology.}, journal = {Biological psychiatry}, volume = {36}, number = {5}, pages = {317-325}, doi = {10.1016/0006-3223(94)90629-7}, pmid = {7993958}, issn = {0006-3223}, support = {NS-15638/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Arousal/drug effects/physiology ; Blood Glucose/*metabolism ; Cerebral Cortex/diagnostic imaging/*drug effects ; *Dextroamphetamine ; Dominance, Cerebral/drug effects/physiology ; Double-Blind Method ; Humans ; Male ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Schizophrenia/chemically induced/diagnosis/*diagnostic imaging ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Temporal Lobe/diagnostic imaging/drug effects ; *Tomography, Emission-Computed ; }, abstract = {The effects of d-amphetamine (0.5 mg/kg orally) on regional cerebral glucose utilization were measured with positron emission tomography (PET) in 17 schizophrenics (along with a placebo-control group of an additional six schizophrenic patients). The acute d-amphetamine challenge tended to decrease glucose utilization throughout much of the brain, with a regional effect that was statistically significant in the left temporal cortex. There was no apparent relationship between the effects of amphetamine-induced changes in regional cerebral metabolism and psychotic symptom exacerbation. An exploratory analysis suggested that features characteristic of Crow's type II syndrome were significant predictors of cerebral hyporesponsivity to stimulant challenge, however.}, }
@article {pmid7987782, year = {1994}, author = {Roy, MA and DeVriendt, X}, title = {[Positive and negative symptoms in schizophrenia: a current overview].}, journal = {Canadian journal of psychiatry. Revue canadienne de psychiatrie}, volume = {39}, number = {7}, pages = {407-414}, doi = {10.1177/070674379403900704}, pmid = {7987782}, issn = {0706-7437}, mesh = {Antipsychotic Agents/therapeutic use ; Cognition Disorders/classification/diagnosis/drug therapy/psychology ; Depressive Disorder/classification/diagnosis/drug therapy/psychology ; Humans ; Prognosis ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Risk Factors ; Schizophrenia/*classification/diagnosis/drug therapy ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Social Environment ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this article is to summarize the results of studies examining the validity of the positive and negative sub-types of schizophrenia as proposed by Crow. The authors summarized Crow's model's predictions in the form of 12 research questions and examined whether its predictions were confirmed. The following predictions are generally confirmed by the data collected: (i) it is possible to measure negative symptoms with accuracy; (ii) the negative symptoms predict a deterioration; (iii) the negative symptoms are generally correlated with overall cognitive deficits; (iv) each dimension appears to have distinct neurobiological substrata. However, several elements of the Crow model are not supported by the data collected. Among the necessary modifications, the most important are as follows: (i) it appears more productive to conceive of the negative symptoms as distinct dimensions, rather than distinct diseases; (ii) at least three dimensions exist for describing the symptoms of schizophrenia; (iii) the negative symptoms are not necessarily intrinsic to the schizophrenic process, and they may be due to other causes; (iv) the negative symptoms are not necessarily irreversible, and can be improved under ataractics; (v) the positive symptoms, in particular those relating to disorganization, can also be correlated with cognitive deficits.}, }
@article {pmid7966175, year = {1994}, author = {Crans, WJ and Caccamise, DF and McNelly, JR}, title = {Eastern equine encephalomyelitis virus in relation to the avian community of a coastal cedar swamp.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {31}, number = {5}, pages = {711-728}, doi = {10.1093/jmedent/31.5.711}, pmid = {7966175}, issn = {0022-2585}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Birds/*virology ; Culicidae/virology ; Disease Vectors ; Encephalitis Virus, Eastern Equine/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Encephalomyelitis, Equine/epidemiology/transmission ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; New Jersey/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Eastern equine encephalomyelitis virus (EEEV) is perpetuated in eastern North America in a mosquito-wild bird maintenance cycle that involves Culiseta melanura (Coquillett) as the principal enzootic vector and passerine birds as the primary amplifying hosts. We examined the role of birds in the EEEV cycle at a site in southern New Jersey where EEEV cycles annually at high levels. Birds and mosquitoes were sampled during three epiornitics and one season of limited virus activity. We examined antibody prevalence in birds in relation to eight physical and natural history characteristics. Our goal was to compare EEEV cycling in C. melanura and the primary avian hosts better to understand the mechanisms that initiate annual epiornitics. Antibody prevalence was highest in the Blue Jay (62%), Wood Thrush (60%), and Tufted Titmouse (44%). Resident status of birds was the natural history characteristic most closely linked to participation in the EEEV cycle. Species spending the greatest amount of time at our study site (permanent residents, summer residents) had the highest antibody rates. We captured viremic birds as early as 25 May, 51 d before we first detected virus in C. melanura. We recaptured 10 after hatching year adults and one hatching year (HY) bird that seroconverted before we detected virus in C. melanura. We also found EEEV antibody in 15 HY birds up to 31 d before we isolated EEEV from C. melanura. We provide evidence that a cryptic cycle develops weeks before epiornitic cycling is detected in C. melanura by traditional laboratory techniques, indicating that the early season cycle is initiated by the recrudescence of latent virus in previously infected birds.}, }
@article {pmid7817850, year = {1994}, author = {Peralta Martin, V and Cuesta Zorita, MJ}, title = {[Schizophrenia models: a review of the hypothetical pathologic processes underlying phenomenological manifestations].}, journal = {Actas luso-espanolas de neurologia, psiquiatria y ciencias afines}, volume = {22}, number = {5}, pages = {230-238}, pmid = {7817850}, issn = {0300-5062}, mesh = {Humans ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Schizophrenia/*classification/diagnosis ; Schizophrenic Psychology ; }, abstract = {Since Kraepelin and Bleuler consolidated the concepts of dementia preacox and schizophrenia almost a century ago, the heterogeneity of the disorder has been recognized as a problem. Since the germinal contribution of Crow, two different processes underlying positive and negative symptoms have been intensively studied. However, there are data that suggest the existence of four underlaying pathological processes to schizophrenic phenomenology: positive, negative, disorganisation and relational, the former three processes being of physiopathological nature and the disorders of relating having a psychological character. Other symptomatological dimensions such as subjective cognitive disorders and catatonic phenomena deserve further research.}, }
@article {pmid7804933, year = {1994}, author = {Wein, EE}, title = {The high cost of a nutritionally adequate diet in four Yukon communities.}, journal = {Canadian journal of public health = Revue canadienne de sante publique}, volume = {85}, number = {5}, pages = {310-312}, pmid = {7804933}, issn = {0008-4263}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Child ; Costs and Cost Analysis ; *Feeding Behavior/ethnology ; Female ; Food/*economics ; Food Services/economics ; Food Supply/economics/standards ; Humans ; *Indians, North American ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Nutritional Requirements ; Poverty ; Yukon Territory ; }, abstract = {The cost of purchasing a nutritionally adequate diet in four Yukon communities was examined, based on the 46 food items and quantities of the federal government's Northern Food Basket. In Old Crow, unit purchase prices were on average 250% of those in Edmonton, while in three southern Yukon communities, unit purchase prices were about 125% of those in Edmonton. In quantities needed to meet weekly nutrient needs of a family of four, the cost in Old Crow was 320% of that in Edmonton, while in three southern Yukon communities, it was 140%. It appears that due to financial necessity, Yukon aboriginal people need continuing access to traditional food resources (wild game animals, birds, fish and berries). Since the Northern Food Basket does not include any traditional foods, it alone is of limited acceptability to these people. The high cost of marketed food and the role of traditional foods in contemporary diets should be considered in giving dietary advice and in determining food allowances in social assistance programs.}, }
@article {pmid10138071, year = {1994}, author = {Niederman, GA and Christiansen, JD and Phillips, K}, title = {Recent developments in 'any willing provider' legislation.}, journal = {Medical group management journal}, volume = {41}, number = {5}, pages = {30, 32-4}, pmid = {10138071}, issn = {0899-8949}, mesh = {Medical Staff Privileges/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Pharmaceutical Services/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Preferred Provider Organizations/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; State Government ; United States ; }, abstract = {Because of recent state-level legislation, many health care networks may not be allowed to choose between qualified member providers. Gerald A. Neiderman, J.D., Jay D. Christiansen, J.D., and Kelly Phillips, J.D., of the health care practice group of Fagre &amp; Benson, update the background, trends and potential impacts of any willing providers laws.}, }
@article {pmid7999913, year = {1994}, author = {Otsuka, Y and Okada, Y and Makino, S and Maruyama, T}, title = {Isolation of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis from city-living crows captured in a zoo.}, journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science}, volume = {56}, number = {4}, pages = {785-786}, doi = {10.1292/jvms.56.785}, pmid = {7999913}, issn = {0916-7250}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/microbiology ; Animals, Zoo/microbiology ; Bird Diseases/microbiology/transmission ; Birds/*microbiology ; Disease Reservoirs/veterinary ; Japan ; Yersinia pseudotuberculosis/*isolation &amp; purification ; Yersinia pseudotuberculosis Infections/microbiology/transmission/veterinary ; }, abstract = {To study the distribution of pathogenic Yersinia in city-living birds, 145 wild jungle crows were captured in a zoo between June, 1992 and April, 1993. Although pathogenic Yersinia enterocolitica was not isolated, Y. pseudotuberculosis belonging to serovar 4b was independently isolated from 7 caecal contents, respectively. All 7 isolates were positive on temperature-dependent autoagglutination and had a 70 Kb large plasmid. The plasmid DNAs from the 7 strains had the same BamHI digestion pattern. These results suggest that the wild crows in a zoo are one of the possible reservoirs of Yersinia.}, }
@article {pmid7924200, year = {1994}, author = {Korb, KB}, title = {Stephen Jay Gould on intelligence.}, journal = {Cognition}, volume = {52}, number = {2}, pages = {111-123}, doi = {10.1016/0010-0277(94)90064-7}, pmid = {7924200}, issn = {0010-0277}, mesh = {Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Racial Groups ; }, abstract = {In The Mismeasure of Man (1981) Stephen Jay Gould provides a typically readable history of one of our most vexatious intellectual enterprises: the scientific study of intelligence. Gould is successful, as always, in rendering the relevant scientific debates accessible to general readers. What Gould does less well is to carry through his attack on prior attempts to understand natural intelligence scientifically: attempting to muster all possible arguments against such science, he conjures up a variety of impossible arguments as well. One such argument urges that Gould's predecessors are not to be taken seriously because they are racists and have let their racism influence their scientific practice. Gould has no difficulty in demonstrating the influence of racism; where he goes astray is in his dismissal of such prior work as simply unscientific because the racist conclusions preceded the collection of data. Advancing hypotheses prior to experimentation is how all of science proceeds, and is no mark of inferior work. And no science is immune to influences--racist or otherwise--from the culture in which it is embedded, as Gould elsewhere readily acknowledges. Another failed argument claims that all of the factor analysts studying intelligence have committed the intellectual sin of reifying the factors uncovered in IQ tests--concluding that the factors are real solely on the basis of how a factor analysis summarizes IQ data. Gould concludes that factor analysis is worthless for the study of intelligence. However: (1) contrary to what Gould suggests, the factor analysts themselves warned against concluding that the factors "discovered" are physiologically real merely on the basis of a factor analysis; and (2) factor analysis nevertheless remains a strong candidate technique for developing causal models worth investigating subsequently by other means.}, }
@article {pmid7856470, year = {1994}, author = {Mochizuki, Y and Yoshihashi, H and Oishi, M and Takasu, T and Nozawa, K and Uchiyama, T and Sawada, S}, title = {Crow-Fukase syndrome: a case associated with vasospastic angina.}, journal = {Acta neurologica}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {170-176}, pmid = {7856470}, issn = {0001-6276}, mesh = {Acetylcholine ; Angina Pectoris, Variant/*complications/diagnostic imaging/drug therapy ; Humans ; Isosorbide Dinitrate/therapeutic use ; Male ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications/drug therapy ; Prednisolone/therapeutic use ; Radiography ; }, abstract = {The patient is a 60-year-old man who developed numbness of the extremities, paralysis, hyperpigmentation of the skin, hypertrichosis, anasarca and chest pain at the age of 58 years. The diagnosis of Crow-Fukase syndrome was made and myeloma was not found. Prednisolone therapy was effective but chest pain reappeared every morning when prednisolone was tapered to 30 mg alternate day. Coronary arteriogram showed no stenosis but administration of acetylcholine into the coronary artery produced ST elevation in electrocardiogram, chest pain and coronary artery stenosis which were relieved by administration of nitrates into the coronary artery.}, }
@article {pmid7813517, year = {1994}, author = {Danpure, CJ and Fryer, P and Jennings, PR and Allsop, J and Griffiths, S and Cunningham, A}, title = {Evolution of alanine:glyoxylate aminotransferase 1 peroxisomal and mitochondrial targeting. A survey of its subcellular distribution in the livers of various representatives of the classes Mammalia, Aves and Amphibia.}, journal = {European journal of cell biology}, volume = {64}, number = {2}, pages = {295-313}, pmid = {7813517}, issn = {0171-9335}, mesh = {Alanine Transaminase/*analysis ; Amphibians/*metabolism ; Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Birds/*metabolism ; Catalysis ; Cell Compartmentation/physiology ; Cross Reactions ; Immunoblotting ; Liver/*enzymology/ultrastructure ; Mammals/*metabolism ; Microbodies/enzymology ; Microscopy, Immunoelectron ; Mitochondria, Liver/enzymology ; Subcellular Fractions/enzymology ; *Transaminases ; }, abstract = {As part of a wider study on the molecular evolution of alanine:glyoxylate aminotransferase 1 (AGT1) intracellular compartmentalization, we have determined the subcellular distribution of immunoreactive AGT1, using postembedding protein A-gold immunoelectron microscopy, in the livers of various members of the classes Mammalia, Aves, and Amphibia. As far as organellar distribution is concerned, three categories could be distinguished. In members of the first category (type I), all, or nearly all, of the immunoreactive AGT1 was concentrated within the peroxisomes. In the second category (type II), AGT1 was found more evenly distributed in both peroxisomes and mitochondria. In the third category (type III), AGT1 was localized mainly within the mitochondria with much lower, but widely variable, amounts in the peroxisomes. Type I animals include the human, two great apes (gorilla, orangutan), two Old World monkeys (anubis baboon, Japanese macaque), a New World monkey (white-faced Saki monkey), a lago, morph (European rabbit), a bat (Seba's short-tailed fruit bat), two caviomorph rodents (guinea pig, orange-rumped agouti), and two Australian marsupials (koala, Bennett's wallaby). Type II animals include two New World monkeys (common marmoset, cotton-top tamarin), three prosimians (brown lemur, fat-tailed dwarf lemur, pygmy slow loris), five rodents (a hybrid crested porcupine, Colombian ground squirrel, laboratory rat, laboratory mouse, golden hamster), an American marsupial (grey short-tailed opossum), and a bird (raven). Type III animals include the large tree shrew, three insectivores (common Eurasian mole, European hedgehog, house shrew), four carnivores (domestic cat, ocelot, domestic dog, polecat ferret), and an amphibian (common frog). In addition to these categories, some animals (e.g. guinea pig, common frog) possessed significant amounts of cytosolic AGT1. Whereas the subcellular distribution of AGT1 in some orders (e.g. Insectivora and Carnivora) did not appear to vary markedly between the different members, in other orders (e.g. Primates, Rodentia and Marsupialia) it fluctuated widely between the different species. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that the subcellular distribution of AGT1 has changed radically on numerous occasions during the evolution of mammals. The new observations presented in this paper are compatible with our previous demonstration of a relationship between AGT1 subcellular distribution and either present or putative ancestral dietary habit, and our previous suggestion that the molecular evolution of the AGT gene has been markedly influenced by dietary selection pressure.}, }
@article {pmid8072225, year = {1994}, author = {Takeshita, S and Yamakado, M and Nagano, M and Umezu, M and Tagawa, H}, title = {[A case of Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis].}, journal = {Nihon Jinzo Gakkai shi}, volume = {36}, number = {7}, pages = {858-862}, pmid = {8072225}, issn = {0385-2385}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Glomerulonephritis, Membranoproliferative/*complications/pathology ; Humans ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications ; }, abstract = {Crow-Fukase syndrome is a rare multiorgan disorder. Although renal disorders, such as proteinuria, and renal impairment, have been observed in half the cases of this syndrome, there have been few reports describing the renal lesions. We report here a case of this syndrome associated with membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. A 43-year-old woman was referred to our hospital because of hyperglycemia. She had also been suffering from hyperpigmentation, hepatosplenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, polyneuropathy and endocrine dysfunction, including diabetes mellitus and amenorrhea. Serum electrophoresis showed M protein and immunoelectrophoresis revealed IgA (lambda). Bone marrow aspiration showed a slight increase in the number of plasma cells. Urine protein was 30 mg/dl, BUN was 17 mg/dl and creatinine 0.8 mg/dl. Light microscopic examinations showed enlargement of glomeruli with proliferation of mesangial cells and matrix, a lobular pattern of the glomeruli and thickening of the glomerular basement membrane and associated double contour. Electron microscopic examinations showed thickened capillary walls, associated mesangial interposition and subendothelial dense deposits. Moreover, fine granular deposits of IgM, C3, and fibrinogen along the basement membrane were observed on immunofluorescent studies.}, }
@article {pmid8016257, year = {1994}, author = {Keen, M and Blitzer, A and Aviv, J and Binder, W and Prystowsky, J and Smith, H and Brin, M}, title = {Botulinum toxin A for hyperkinetic facial lines: results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled study.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {94}, number = {1}, pages = {94-99}, doi = {10.1097/00006534-199407000-00009}, pmid = {8016257}, issn = {0032-1052}, mesh = {Adult ; Botulinum Toxins/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Double-Blind Method ; Facial Dermatoses/*therapy ; Facial Muscles/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Muscle Contraction/*physiology ; *Skin Aging ; Sodium Chloride/administration &amp; dosage/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {Previous work on patients with muscular dystonia has shown that small intramuscular doses of botulinum toxin A eliminated hyperkinetic facial lines for approximately 6 months. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of botulinum toxin A injections in eliminating facial wrinkles in aesthetic surgery patients who do not have muscular dystonia. Eleven healthy subjects were studied in a double-blind fashion. On both sides of the face, 0.2 cc of either normal saline or botulinum toxin A was injected into the forehead or into the periorbital wrinkles (crow's feet). Documentation of results was made by photographs taken of the patients during repose and during facial animation before and after injection. Assessment of facial wrinkles was done from a grading system in which the patient and the facial plastic surgeon were asked to judge the severity of the wrinkles on a scale from 0 to 3, with 0 reflecting no facial wrinkles and 3 reflecting severe facial wrinkling. Nine of 11 subjects injected with botulinum toxin A noted a significant improvement in the severity of their facial wrinkles in comparison with the side of the face injected with saline, with a rating improvement of 2 points. Two of 11 subjects noted a moderate improvement, with a rating improvement of 1 point. No patient injected with saline reported an improvement in the severity of the facial wrinkles on the control side. There were no serious complications. Botulinum toxin A is an efficacious method of nonsurgically eliminating facial wrinkles and may play a role in the cosmetic enhancement of the aging face.}, }
@article {pmid7988405, year = {1994}, author = {Ribeyre, JM and Dollfus, S and Lesieur, P and Ménard, JF and Petit, M}, title = {[Schedule for evaluation of the deficit syndrome in schizophrenia: Schedule for Deficit Syndrome (SDS) (Kirkpatrick et al.). Importance pertinence of the SDS. Introduction of the French version].}, journal = {L'Encephale}, volume = {20}, number = {4}, pages = {413-419}, pmid = {7988405}, issn = {0013-7006}, mesh = {*Arousal ; *Cross-Cultural Comparison ; Depression/classification/*diagnosis/psychology ; Humans ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; Schizophrenia/classification/*diagnosis ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; }, abstract = {The negative symptoms of schizophrenia have generated a great interest leading some authors (Crow, Andreasen, Kay) to delineate schizophrenic subtypes based on their presence or absence. Carpenter et al. have recently proposed another subtype, the deficit syndrome, based on Kraepelin's clinical description. This differs from other proposed negative subtypes and refers to the presence or absence of prominent, enduring and primary negative symptoms. Primary negative symptoms have to be due to psychophrenia itself, in other words, independent of factors such as depression, anxiety, akinesia... Kirkpatrick et al. have proposed the Schedule for the Deficit Syndrome (SDS) to reliably identify this deficit syndrome. Some studies using this instrument have supported the validity of the deficit syndrome concept. Particularly, deficit patients have clinical, neuropsychological, neurological, eye-tracking and brain imaging impairments compared to nondeficit patients. We realized a french translation of SDS and used it to study a biological index (plasma homovanillic acid, pHVA) among deficit and nondeficit schizophrenic patients. Our data suggest a specific biochemical basis for the deficit syndrome, ie, significant lower mean pHVA levels with a lack of diurnal variation for deficit patients. The french version of SDS was validated by Kirkpatrick after english back translation. We present here our psychometric data regarding reliability (assessed by weighted and unweighted kappa coefficients) and cohesiveness of the construct (assessed by rank-order correlations of each negative symptoms with the other five, using Spearman's rho). These data are quite significant and in agreement with the SDS authors.}, }
@article {pmid7981593, year = {1994}, author = {Bresolin, N and Castelli, E and Comi, GP and Felisari, G and Bardoni, A and Perani, D and Grassi, F and Turconi, A and Mazzucchelli, F and Gallotti, D}, title = {Cognitive impairment in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.}, journal = {Neuromuscular disorders : NMD}, volume = {4}, number = {4}, pages = {359-369}, doi = {10.1016/0960-8966(94)90072-8}, pmid = {7981593}, issn = {0960-8966}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Animals ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology ; Gene Deletion ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Language ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Memory ; Muscular Dystrophies/*complications/genetics/psychology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychometrics ; Psychomotor Performance ; Tomography, Emission-Computed ; }, abstract = {Cognitive function and dystrophin gene mutations were investigated in 50 DMD patients (mean age 11.1 yr; range 3.5-20.3). General intelligence assessment showed 31% of patients with Wechsler full intelligence quotient (FIQ) lower than 75 (normal values: 100 +/- 14), and only 24% with appropriate FIQ level. Modal distribution of Wechsler verbal, performance, and FIQs, and Raven IQs was normal. Verbal IQ was more affected than performance IQ (PIQ) only in the younger group of subjects. Low PIQ correlated with the presence of macroglossia, detected in 13 out of 50 patients. Impairment of productive language was of non-dysphasic nature and correlated with defects of short-term memory, which was also affected in non-verbal skills. DMD patients shared the same spectrum of neuropsychological defects, regardless of whether they were or were not mentally retarded. The proportion of patients with dystrophin gene deletions was 64%. No statistically significant correlations were found between genetic data and psychometric assessment. Finally, (18F)-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography studies demonstrated cerebellar hypometabolism in all the DMD patients examined and variable involvement of associative cortical areas. These findings suggest a possible role of the cerebral and cerebellar hypometabolism in the cognitive impairment of DMD.}, }
@article {pmid7951207, year = {1994}, author = {Soukup, VM and Harrell, EH and Clark, T}, title = {Right hemispace presentation and left cueing on Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices among right brain-damaged neglect patients.}, journal = {Brain injury}, volume = {8}, number = {5}, pages = {449-455}, doi = {10.3109/02699059409150996}, pmid = {7951207}, issn = {0269-9052}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Attention ; Brain Damage, Chronic/diagnosis/*psychology/rehabilitation ; Cues ; *Dominance, Cerebral ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Orientation ; Psychomotor Performance ; Rehabilitation Centers ; }, abstract = {Despite the substantial experimental literature that has accrued on factors associated with a reduction in neglect, few empirical studies have attempted to extrapolate these findings to clinical assessment and evaluate the efficacy of neglect-reducing strategies on patient performance. The current study developed a modified version of the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) by aligning the response alternatives in a column, in the right hemispace. Three groups of patients (right brain-damaged (RBD) with neglect, RBD without neglect, and orthopaedic controls) were administered abbreviated versions of the revised format, and performance was compared to the standard presentation format. The efficacy of left cues with the revised format was also investigated. Presence of neglect was assessed via the Schenkenberg Line Bisection Task and the Bells Test. Results showed a significant performance decrement among RBD neglect patients under all conditions. However, contrary to predictions, RBD neglect patients did not reveal significantly better performance on the revised version as compared to the standard presentation format. No significant effects associated with left side cueing were observed. The finding that no significant performance changes emerged as a function of stimulus modification and verbal prompts suggests that, although these manipulations may be employed by clinicians to maximize patient performance, empirical support for the efficacy of these procedures is lacking.}, }
@article {pmid7878602, year = {1994}, author = {Vaiva, G and Thomas, P and Leroux, JM and Cottencin, O and Dutoit, D and Erb, F and Goudemand, M}, title = {[Erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (eSOD) determination in positive moments of psychosis].}, journal = {Therapie}, volume = {49}, number = {4}, pages = {343-348}, pmid = {7878602}, issn = {0040-5957}, mesh = {Adult ; Antipsychotic Agents/therapeutic use ; Erythrocytes/*chemistry ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Psychotic Disorders/*blood/drug therapy ; Schizophrenia/blood/drug therapy ; Superoxide Dismutase/*blood ; }, abstract = {Dysregulation of free radical metabolism has been supposed to be involved in schizophrenia etiopathogeny. Recently, Wang et al. showed a red blood cell super oxide dismutase increase in positive schizophrenia (Crow's type I), but neither in negative schizophrenia (Crow's type II) nor in controls. The study included 28 in-patients suffering from acute positive psychosis who were compared with 15 controls. We confirmed the results of Wang. We found a significantly red blood cell Super oxide dismutase increase in positive psychosis, in comparison to negative psychosis and controls (p = 0.0001). This SOD increase was in relationship with the degree of clinical psychomotor excitement. After 21 days of neuroleptic treatment, SOD activity decreased and reached standard values. These results support the hypothesis of striking relationships between catecholaminergic hyper-metabolism and SOD increase, in positive psychosis. These could account for psychotic positive symptoms improvement with neuroleptic treatment, which blocks dopamine pathways.}, }
@article {pmid11613378, year = {1994}, author = {Wiese, G}, title = {Beyond the "Jim Crow" experience: blacks in chiropractic education.}, journal = {Chiropractic history : the archives and journal of the Association for the History of Chiropractic}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {14-21}, pmid = {11613378}, issn = {0736-4377}, mesh = {Black or African American/*history ; Chiropractic/*history ; Education, Medical/*history ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; United States ; }, abstract = {Although the first chiropractic adjustment was given by D.D. Palmer to a black man in 1895, within two decades attendance at the Palmer School of Chiropractic was forbidden to blacks. Not until mid-century were blacks allowed entrance into the oldest and largest chiropractic college in the United states. Denied entry at the Palmer School, most blacks who entered chirporactic studied in "Jim Crow" schools run by white practitioners in the North. This paper explores the social, historicl and economic factors influencing the exclusion of blacks from medical education, and concludes that chirpractic education is at the stage medical education was twenty-five years ago in its attempts to recruit black students. The author recommends that the Association of Chiropractic Colleges establish a task force on minoritiy recruitment to expand the educational opportunities in chiropractic for blacks and other minorities.}, }
@article {pmid8054178, year = {1994}, author = {Babcock, RL}, title = {Analysis of adult age differences on the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices Test.}, journal = {Psychology and aging}, volume = {9}, number = {2}, pages = {303-314}, doi = {10.1037//0882-7974.9.2.303}, pmid = {8054178}, issn = {0882-7974}, support = {AG06826/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*physiology/psychology ; Goals ; Humans ; Logic ; Memory, Short-Term ; Middle Aged ; Pattern Recognition, Automated ; *Psychological Tests ; Reaction Time ; Regression Analysis ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this project was to examine the nature of performance, and specifically, age-related performance, on the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM) Test (Raven, Court, &amp; Raven, 1983). In the 1st of 2 studies, 2 tests presumed to measure each of 4 hypothesized components of the APM and 3 tests presumed to measure processing speed were presented to 165 young adults. On the basis of correlational and confirmatory analyses, 1 of the components was not included in Study 2. The 2nd study was designed to examine the influence of the 3 remaining components, processing speed, and working memory on the individual and age-related differences on the APM. Participants included 183 adults between the ages of 21 and 83. The results suggest that although all 3 components are important to performance on the APM, rule application tasks seem to hold the most promise in accounting for age-related variance on the APM.}, }
@article {pmid7961050, year = {1994}, author = {Mitrushina, M and Stamm, J}, title = {Task-induced differential cortical activation pattern.}, journal = {International journal of psychophysiology : official journal of the International Organization of Psychophysiology}, volume = {17}, number = {1}, pages = {15-23}, doi = {10.1016/0167-8760(94)90051-5}, pmid = {7961050}, issn = {0167-8760}, mesh = {Adult ; Attention/physiology ; Cerebral Cortex/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; *Electroencephalography ; Fourier Analysis ; Functional Laterality/physiology ; Humans ; Male ; Models, Neurological ; Space Perception/physiology ; Verbal Behavior/physiology ; }, abstract = {Measures of task-dependent cortical activation were assessed by bilateral EEG recordings from frontal, temporal, parietal and occipital areas. Two pictorial tests, the Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices and the Space Relations Test were used for verbal and spatial conditions, respectively. Recordings were obtained for 20 trials of each task from 22 right-handed adult males and 16 s. trial epochs were subjected to Fast Fourier analyses. Averaged intensity values for the alpha band were compared between verbal and spatial tasks for all subjects and between subgroups of verbalizers and visualizers, allotted on the basis of subject's performance index, derived from response speed and accuracy on the two tasks. The results were as follows: (1) The most pronounced EEG discriminators between the two performance subgroups are the left and right parietal and the right frontal area; (2) The left parietal zone provides the most pronounced discrimination between two groups; (3) There were significant interactions between the left parietal and the right frontal region; (4) The two parietal areas show characteristic frequency shifts in opposite directions for the task conditions. The findings imply complex interplay among the two parietal and right frontal areas, associated with sequential and holistic strategies. The results urge researchers to take into consideration subjectively preferred cognitive strategy, which along with objective task demands influences the process of problem solving and accompanying physiological changes.}, }
@article {pmid7960335, year = {1994}, author = {Conine, TA and Hershler, C and Daechsel, D and Peel, C and Pearson, A}, title = {Pressure ulcer prophylaxis in elderly patients using polyurethane foam or Jay wheelchair cushions.}, journal = {International journal of rehabilitation research. Internationale Zeitschrift fur Rehabilitationsforschung. Revue internationale de recherches de readaptation}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {123-137}, doi = {10.1097/00004356-199406000-00003}, pmid = {7960335}, issn = {0342-5282}, mesh = {Aged ; Equipment Design ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Polyurethanes/therapeutic use ; Pressure ; Pressure Ulcer/physiopathology/*prevention &amp; control ; *Wheelchairs ; }, abstract = {A significantly lower proportion of the patients in the Jay group (25%) experienced pressure ulcer formation during the three months of observation as compared to the foam group (41%). No statistically significant differences were found between groups on the location, severity, or healing duration of the pressure ulcers. Most lesions (65%) were limited to persistent erythema of intact skin, and healed in three to four weeks. Significantly higher proportions of patients in the Jay groups (7%) rejected their cushion because of discomfort as compared to foam (1%). The incidence of pressure ulcers was significantly higher among those patients who experienced peak interface pressures recorded at 60 mmHg or higher, had low Norton scores (< or = 11), or were malnourished.}, }
@article {pmid7959997, year = {1994}, author = {Sankar, R and Rai, B and Pulger, T and Sankar, G and Srinivasan, T and Srinivasan, L and Pandav, CS}, title = {Intellectual and motor functions in school children from severely iodine deficient region in Sikkim.}, journal = {Indian journal of pediatrics}, volume = {61}, number = {3}, pages = {231-236}, pmid = {7959997}, issn = {0019-5456}, mesh = {Child ; *Child Development ; Congenital Hypothyroidism/epidemiology ; Female ; Goiter, Endemic/epidemiology ; Humans ; India/epidemiology ; Iodine/*deficiency ; Male ; *Motor Skills ; Pilot Projects ; Random Allocation ; }, abstract = {High prevalence of endemic goitre (54%) and endemic cretinism (3.5%) exist in Sikkim. The level of intellectual functioning and motor performance were assessed in 90 school children in the age group of 10 to 12 years selected randomly from four severely iodine-deficient villages. Bender Visual Motor Gestalt Test, Binet-Kamat Test for mental ability and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices were the tests used. The results show an impairment in intellectual and other neuropsychological functions in a high percentage of the children. Visuomotor coordination was poor in 62 (69%). Binet-Kamat test results showed that 19 (21%) children were intellectually subnormal (IQ < 70). Majority of the children (> 80%) had significant impairment in language, meaningful memory, non-meaningful memory, conceptual thinking, numerical reasoning and motor skills. The children did better on non-verbal reasoning and social intelligence. Goitre was detected in 82 (91.1%). Urine samples for iodine estimations was collected from every second child examined. The mean urinary iodine concentration was 4.23 micrograms/dl (SD 2.16). Urinary iodine concentration was less than 2 micro gm/dl in 26.1% (11 children) and less than 5 micro gm/dl in 84.8% (39 children) indicating severe iodine deficiency. The test results show impairment of psychomotor development in children born and brought up in iodine-deficient environment.}, }
@article {pmid7941728, year = {1994}, author = {Zorina, ZA and Smirnova, AA}, title = {[Relative quantitative estimations in pigeons and crows: the spontaneous choice of a greater set of food items].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {44}, number = {3}, pages = {618-621}, pmid = {7941728}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Choice Behavior/*physiology ; Columbidae/*physiology ; Food Deprivation/physiology ; Food Preferences/*physiology ; }, }
@article {pmid7520905, year = {1994}, author = {Schooler, NR}, title = {Negative symptoms in schizophrenia: assessment of the effect of risperidone.}, journal = {The Journal of clinical psychiatry}, volume = {55 Suppl}, number = {}, pages = {22-28}, pmid = {7520905}, issn = {0160-6689}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Antipsychotic Agents/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Female ; Haloperidol/therapeutic use ; Humans ; Isoxazoles/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Piperidines/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; Risperidone ; Schizophrenia/classification/*drug therapy ; Single-Blind Method ; }, abstract = {This article reviews the definitions of negative symptoms and the deficit syndrome of schizophrenia, rating scale criteria (the Scale for Assessment of Negative Symptoms and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale), Crow's Type II syndrome, and Carpenter's deficit syndrome in relation to the DSM-IV. The effectiveness of conventional neuroleptics against negative symptoms is still in question. Improvement in negative symptoms may occur in tandem with improvement in the florid symptoms of schizophrenia, but negative symptoms may be difficult to discriminate from the extrapyramidal side effects that are caused by conventional neuroleptics. In a multicenter trial comparing the novel antipsychotic risperidone with haloperidol and placebo in symptomatic schizophrenia, negative symptoms (assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale) were reduced more by risperidone at a dose of 6, 10, and 16 mg/day than by placebo. Haloperidol at a dose of 20 mg/day was not significantly better than placebo. Risperidone 6 mg was the lowest dose that produced substantial change in negative symptoms and no increase in extrapyramidal symptoms and antiparkinsonian medication use.}, }
@article {pmid8072960, year = {1994}, author = {Masson, C and Krespi, Y}, title = {[POEMS syndrome].}, journal = {Presse medicale (Paris, France : 1983)}, volume = {23}, number = {14}, pages = {646-648}, pmid = {8072960}, issn = {0755-4982}, mesh = {Adrenal Cortex Hormones/therapeutic use ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/therapeutic use ; Bone Neoplasms/complications/therapy ; Combined Modality Therapy ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*etiology/physiopathology/therapy ; Plasmacytoma/complications/therapy ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {POEMS syndrome has been defined as an association of plasma cell dyscrasia with polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M protein and skin changes. Although certain authors do not distinguish this syndrome from osteosclerosing myeloma, syndromes comparable to POEMS have been observed without bone lesions. Others have described the clinical features involved under the terms of Crow-Fukase's syndrome, PEP syndrome (pigmentation, oedema, plasma cell dyscrasia, or Takatsuki's syndrome. Seen in men twice as often as in women, usually between the ages of 40-50 years, all five clinical features are not always present or may be accompanied by other signs. The first sign of the peripheral polyneuropathy is usually sensorial impairment followed by distal then proximal motor deficit. The deficit is usually severe and 50% of the patients become unable to walk. Cranial nerves are rarely involved. Liver, spleen and lymph node enlargement are observed. The most frequent signs of an endocrinopathy are gynaecomastia, atrophy of the testicules, impotence and amenorrhoea. Testosterone levels are low and oestrogen levels are increased in men together with luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone and prolactin. Hypothyroidism is frequent and diabetes mellitus is observed in 50% of the patients. Protein M is a monoclonal immunoglobulin (IgG or IgA), almost always with a light lambda chain. Skin changes include hyperpigmentation, hypertrichosis, hyperhidrosis, thickening of the skin suggestive of sclerodermia and papillary angiomas. Other signs, especially peripheral oedema often occur early in the disease course and may precede the peripheral neuropathy. POEMS syndrome is often associated with a myeloma (up to 50% of the cases in certain series). Although immunoglobulin deposit on myelin sheaths, anti-endocrine antibodies and receptors of lambda chains have been proposed as playing a role, no mechanism of pathogenesis has been determined. The natural history of the disease leads to a severe polyneuropathy. The patients become totally bedridden and death results from complications of decubitus rather from the direct effect of the underlying dyscrasia. When bone lesions are minor, radiotherapy or surgery can improve the neuropathy and resection of a solitary plasmocytoma can lead to total remission. Chemotherapy or corticosteroids may improve the polyneuropathy in certain cases. Plasma exchange has not been successful.}, }
@article {pmid10134446, year = {1994}, author = {Crow, NR}, title = {Choosing and using a lawyer. What every medical practice administrator needs to know.}, journal = {Medical group management journal}, volume = {41}, number = {3}, pages = {38-40, 42, 44}, pmid = {10134446}, issn = {0899-8949}, mesh = {Contract Services/*standards ; Decision Making ; Fees and Charges ; Group Practice/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/*organization &amp; administration ; *Jurisprudence ; Liability, Legal ; Planning Techniques ; United States ; }, abstract = {Attorney Nancy Crow, J.D., L.L.M., writes about some of the legal issues encountered by medical groups, such as business law, real estate and land use, taxes and employee benefits, among many others, and what types of attorneys are more appropriate for particular concerns.}, }
@article {pmid8020538, year = {1994}, author = {Heidrich, SM and Denney, NW}, title = {Does social problem solving differ from other types of problem solving during the adult years?.}, journal = {Experimental aging research}, volume = {20}, number = {2}, pages = {105-126}, doi = {10.1080/03610739408253957}, pmid = {8020538}, issn = {0361-073X}, support = {NR05932-02/NR/NINR NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*physiology ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Language Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Regression Analysis ; Sex Characteristics ; *Social Problems ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {One hundred thirteen individuals, ages 18-81, were presented with a test of social problem solving, a test of practical problem solving, the Twenty Questions task (a test of traditional problem solving), the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale--Revised Vocabulary subtest (a measure of crystallized intelligence), and Raven's Progressive Matrices (a measure of fluid intelligence). The effects of age, sex, education, and intellectual abilities on problem-solving performance were examined. Social problem solving was positively related to higher education and higher Vocabulary scores, but it was not related to age. Social problem solving and practical problem solving were significantly related to each other and to scores on the Vocabulary subtest, whereas traditional problem solving was significantly related to scores on Raven's Progressive Matrices. These results suggest that different types of problem solving are differentially related to other intellectual abilities and to age.}, }
@article {pmid8031493, year = {1994}, author = {Healy, SD and Clayton, NS and Krebs, JR}, title = {Development of hippocampal specialisation in two species of tit (Parus spp.).}, journal = {Behavioural brain research}, volume = {61}, number = {1}, pages = {23-28}, doi = {10.1016/0166-4328(94)90004-3}, pmid = {8031493}, issn = {0166-4328}, mesh = {Aging/*physiology ; Animals ; Appetitive Behavior/*physiology ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Brain Mapping ; Cell Count ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Female ; Hippocampus/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Male ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; Neurons/ultrastructure ; Orientation/*physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Food storing birds have been shown to have a larger hippocampus, relative to the rest of the telencephalon, than do non-storers. A previous study reported that this difference in relative hippocampal volume is not apparent in a comparison of nestling birds, but emerges after birds have fledged. This conclusion was based on a comparison of a storing and a non-storing species in the corvid family. The present study compared another storer/non-storer pair of species in order to test whether the results of the previous study can be replicated in another family of birds. The volumes of the hippocampal region and remainder of the telencephalon were measured and estimates of neuron size, density and total number in the hippocampal region were made for nestlings and adults of the food-storing marsh tit Parus palustris and non-storing blue tit Parus caeruleus. Relative hippocampal volume did not differ between nestlings of the two species, whilst the relative hippocampal volume of adult marsh tits was greater than that of blue tits. The difference between adults arose because in marsh tits but not blue tits, adults had a significantly larger relative hippocampal volume than did nestlings. Neuron density was significantly higher in both species in nestlings than in adults and adult blue tits had fewer neurons than did adult marsh tits. The results of this study are largely consistent with the earlier study comparing a storing and non-storing species of corvid, suggesting that the observed patterns may reflect a general difference between storers and non-storers in the development of the hippocampal region.}, }
@article {pmid8037075, year = {1994}, author = {Blennerhassett, L and Strohmeier, SJ and Hibbett, C}, title = {Criterion-related validity of Raven's Progressive Matrices with deaf residential school students.}, journal = {American annals of the deaf}, volume = {139}, number = {2}, pages = {104-110}, doi = {10.1353/aad.2012.0053}, pmid = {8037075}, issn = {0002-726X}, mesh = {Achievement ; Adolescent ; *Deafness ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; Language ; Male ; *Reproducibility of Results ; *Residential Facilities ; *Schools ; *Students ; }, abstract = {Criterion-related validity of Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM) was investigated using a sample of 107 deaf residential adolescents. Data collection involved retrieval of psychoeducational test scores (RPM; WISC-R Performance IQ; VMI-R; Bender-Gestalt; and SAT-HI Reading Comprehension, Spelling, and Language) from student files. Concurrent validity between the Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) and WISC-R PIQ was established, with significant (p .001) correlations of .598 (using WISC-R deaf norms) and .616 (using WISC-R hearing norms). Predictive validity was supported by significant correlations between the SPM and SAT-HI Reading Comprehension, Spelling, and Language scores.}, }
@article {pmid8014253, year = {1994}, author = {Saarnio, P}, title = {A comparative study of dynamic and static testing in abstinent alcoholics.}, journal = {Journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {50}, number = {2}, pages = {272-280}, doi = {10.1002/1097-4679(199403)50:2&lt;272::aid-jclp2270500221&gt;3.0.co;2-7}, pmid = {8014253}, issn = {0021-9762}, mesh = {Adult ; Alcoholism/psychology/*rehabilitation ; Discrimination Learning/drug effects ; Ethanol/*adverse effects ; Field Dependence-Independence ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Orientation/drug effects ; Pattern Recognition, Visual/drug effects ; Problem Solving/drug effects ; Substance-Related Disorders/classification/*diagnosis/psychology ; Temperance/*psychology ; Transfer, Psychology ; }, abstract = {The performance of 44 Finnish alcoholics was measured on a Vygotskian version of the Raven's Progressive Matrices and four traditional static tests (the Digit Symbol and Block Design subtests from the WAIS, Part B of the Trial Making Test, and the Embedded Figures Test). Of the static tests only the Block Design showed consistent congruence with the results of the learning potential test. The other static tests discriminated only partially from each other the groups which were formed according to learning potential. The most fruitful way to test alcoholics is probably to have a flexible combination of static and dynamic tests. We also need to have tests that are applicable to both static and dynamic testing.}, }
@article {pmid10132070, year = {1993}, author = {Averill, R and Kalison, MJ}, title = {VIP interview: Richard Averill and Michael Jay Kalison.}, journal = {Managed care quarterly}, volume = {1}, number = {3}, pages = {82-87}, pmid = {10132070}, issn = {1064-5454}, mesh = {Competitive Medical Plans/economics ; Cost Control/legislation &amp; jurisprudence/*methods ; Economic Competition ; Health Care Reform/*economics/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Industry/economics ; Managed Care Programs/economics ; Prospective Payment System ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid8194261, year = {1994}, author = {Hara, K and Shirabe, T and Funakawa, I and Yasuda, T and Terao, A}, title = {[Relationship between thermal threshold and population of peripheral nerve fibers].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {34}, number = {2}, pages = {106-113}, pmid = {8194261}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Cell Count ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Nerve Fibers/pathology ; Peripheral Nerves/*pathology ; Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/pathology/*physiopathology ; *Sensory Thresholds ; Thermosensing/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The relationship skin thermal threshold (TT) and density of both myelinated and unmyelinated fibers were investigated in 12 patients with various peripheral nerve diseases including Crow-Fukase syndrome, carcinomatous neuropathy and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. The TT was measured at a site above the medial tibial condyle using a thermal threshold tester. The TT was defined as the threshold at which a slight rise or fall in temperature could be detected. The size of the skin stimulation area was 13.5 cm2, the temperature change rate was 1 degrees C/sec, and the basal temperature was set at 34 degrees C. A sural nerve biopsy was performed and an image processor (IBAS) was used to measure the nerve fiber density. The TT in the patients with peripheral nerve disease was found to be elevated when compared with that of the 74 healthy controls (mean age of 38.1 +/- 13.3 years). Elevation of the TT has an intimate relation to damage of the small myelinated nerve fibers. In conclusion, unmyelinated fibers may play a relatively minor role in conveying thermal sensation.}, }
@article {pmid8165922, year = {1994}, author = {Larson, GE and Saccuzzo, DP and Brown, J}, title = {Motivation: cause or confound in information processing/intelligence correlations?.}, journal = {Acta psychologica}, volume = {85}, number = {1}, pages = {25-37}, doi = {10.1016/0001-6918(94)90018-3}, pmid = {8165922}, issn = {0001-6918}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; *Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; *Motivation ; Random Allocation ; Refractory Period, Psychological ; }, abstract = {The goal of the present study was to determine whether correlations between information processing scores and intelligence can be explained in terms of between-subject motivational differences. One hundred and nine male and female volunteer college students were tested on a battery of microcomputerized cognitive tests. One hundred of these subjects returned for a second session in which they were randomly assigned to an incentive or no-incentive condition and then retested. The effort expended on the tests was measured via heart rate, skin conductance, and a self-report questionnaire. Criterion measures, including the Advanced Otis-Lennon Test of Mental Abilities and Advanced Raven Progressive Matrices were also taken. The findings revealed that incentives had relatively modest effects on performance. In no case, however, did incentives affect the overall IQ-performance correlation for the tests used in the battery. These results support the view that correlations between information processing scores and intelligence reflect common mental capacities, rather than some affective variable such as motivation.}, }
@article {pmid8157394, year = {1994}, author = {Lange, P and Schnohr, P}, title = {The relationship between facial wrinkling and airflow obstruction.}, journal = {International journal of dermatology}, volume = {33}, number = {2}, pages = {123-126}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-4362.1994.tb01541.x}, pmid = {8157394}, issn = {0011-9059}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Female ; Forced Expiratory Volume ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Pulmonary Ventilation ; Skin Aging/*physiology ; Smoking ; Vital Capacity ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Similar smoking-related changes in the collagen and elastin could play a role in the pathogenesis of both skin wrinkling and chronic airflow obstruction. The hypothesis was tested by analyzing whether increased facial wrinkling, especially in smokers, is associated with the presence of airflow obstruction.<br><br>METHODS: An age-stratified randomized sample of the general population comprising 6034 men and 7152 women between 30 and 80 years of age was analyzed. The recording of wrinkling in the crow's foot area of the right eye was performed according to an earlier described severity score. As an index of airflow obstruction, we used the ratio between forced expiratory volume in 1 s and forced vital capacity in percent (FEV1/FVC%).<br><br>RESULTS: Multiple regression analysis comprising current and previous smokers showed that, after controlling for age, subjects with highest wrinkle scores had on average FEV1/FVC% that was 1.2-1.9% lower than in subjects with lower wrinkle scores. No association between facial wrinkling and airflow obstruction was observed among lifetime nonsmokers.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Increased facial wrinkling is independent of age when associated with airflow obstruction in smokers, but not in never-smokers. The magnitude of this association, however, is small.}, }
@article {pmid9317568, year = {1994}, author = {Sephton, D and Driedzic, W}, title = {GLUCOSE METABOLISM BY SEA RAVEN (HEMITRIPTERUS AMERICANUS) AND RAINBOW TROUT (ONCORHYNCHUS MYKISS) ERYTHROCYTES.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {194}, number = {1}, pages = {167-180}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.194.1.167}, pmid = {9317568}, issn = {1477-9145}, abstract = {The fate of extracellular glucose in blood isolated from sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus) and rainbow trout (Onchorhynchus mykiss) was determined. In blood from both species incubated in vitro at low physiological pH, the decrease in plasma glucose concentration was more than adequate to support oxygen consumption. Glucose disappearance could not be accounted for by increases in lactate, red blood cell (RBC) glucose or RBC glycogen concentrations. Rates of 14CO2 production from [6-14C]glucose over a 2 h incubation period were less than 1 % of metabolic rate. Only small amounts of label appeared in RBC protein, lipid or glycogen fractions relative to metabolic rates, but label accumulated in the intracellular acid-soluble fraction (presumably free glucose, glycolytic intermediates, amino acids, citric acid cycle intermediates, etc.) at rates consistent with oxygen consumption and glucose disappearance. The simplest explanation for the mismatch between 14CO2 production and the other estimates of metabolic rate is that incubation times were too short for equilibration to occur. A consequence is that studies of this nature cannot use 14CO2 production to elucidate rates of aerobic fuel utilization. By default, the data imply that glucose serves as a primary aerobic metabolic fuel for the RBCs, at least under some conditions.}, }
@article {pmid8188037, year = {1994}, author = {Spitsyn, VA and Agapova, RK and Spitsyna, NKh}, title = {[Effects of maximal possible potential selection in the world population. New data on selection structure in the CIS nations].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {30}, number = {1}, pages = {115-118}, pmid = {8188037}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Commonwealth of Independent States ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {New information on maximal possible potential selection and its component values in some ethno-territorial groups in CIS was presented. The heterogeneity observed in the Crow's index and its components can be explained as a result of the differences in the social economic status of the groups studied and the influence of climate geographical factors. The data gathered during the biodemographical study of 67 populations allowed to detect regularities of the effects of selective factors in world population: non-random and discrete nature of considered populations distribution in the coordinate space of selection components associated with differential mortality (I) and differential fertility (I) was shown. Differentiation of three big aggregations of populations was shown: urbanized contemporary communities with low I values; small endogamous populations, mostly of hunters and gatherers; small towns' populations and rural populations with balanced reproductive indices. Microevolutionary changes take place in the latter conglomerate even now, statistically subdividing it into two clusters. A proposition was made about the existence of "ecological optimum" for populations intermediate between advanced industrial communities and communities of hunters and gatherers, corresponding to the population size and the nature and rate of population reproduction.}, }
@article {pmid8182355, year = {1994}, author = {Bürger, R and Hofbauer, J}, title = {Mutation load and mutation-selection-balance in quantitative genetic traits.}, journal = {Journal of mathematical biology}, volume = {32}, number = {3}, pages = {193-218}, pmid = {8182355}, issn = {0303-6812}, mesh = {Alleles ; Diploidy ; Mathematics ; *Models, Genetic ; *Mutation ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {Haldane (1937) showed that the reduction of equilibrium mean fitness in an infinite population due to recurrent deleterious mutations depends only on the mutation rate but not on the harmfulness of mutants. His analysis, as well as more recent ones (cf. Crow 1970), ignored back mutation. The purpose of the present paper is to extend these results to arbitrary mutation patterns among alleles and to quantitative genetic traits. We derive first-order approximations for the equilibrium mean fitness (and the mutation load) and determine the order of the error term. For a metric trait under mutation-stabilizing-selection balance our result differs qualitatively from that of Crow and Kimura (1964), whose analysis is based on a Gaussian assumption. Our general approach also yields a mathematical proof that the variance under the usual mutation-stabilizing-selection model is, to first order, micro/s (the house-of cards approximation) as micro/s tends to zero. This holds for arbitrary mutant distributions and does not require that the population mean coincide with the optimum. We show how the mutant distribution determines the order of the error term, and thus the accuracy of the house-of-cards approximation. Upper and lower bounds to the equilibrium variance are derived that deviate only to second order as micro/s tends to zero. The multilocus case is treated under the assumption of global linkage equilibrium.}, }
@article {pmid8174593, year = {1994}, author = {Yamada, M and Yamawaki, M and Michikawa, M and Kameda, N and Furukawa, T and Kaneko, E}, title = {The Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome with vasospastic angina.}, journal = {European neurology}, volume = {34}, number = {2}, pages = {110}, doi = {10.1159/000117020}, pmid = {8174593}, issn = {0014-3022}, mesh = {Adult ; Angina Pectoris, Variant/*diagnosis ; Humans ; Ischemic Attack, Transient/*diagnosis ; Male ; Multiple Myeloma/diagnosis ; Neurologic Examination ; POEMS Syndrome/*diagnosis ; }, }
@article {pmid8123260, year = {1994}, author = {Bathurst, K and Kee, DW}, title = {Finger-tapping interference as produced by concurrent verbal and nonverbal tasks: an analysis of individual differences in left-handers.}, journal = {Brain and cognition}, volume = {24}, number = {1}, pages = {123-136}, doi = {10.1006/brcg.1994.1007}, pmid = {8123260}, issn = {0278-2626}, mesh = {Adult ; *Attention ; Dominance, Cerebral ; Female ; *Functional Laterality ; Humans ; *Individuality ; Male ; Mental Recall ; *Motor Activity ; *Motor Skills ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Orientation ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Problem Solving ; *Verbal Behavior ; }, abstract = {Verbal cerebral asymmetry was examined in 96 right- and left-handed college students using dual-task methods. The manual task was finger-tapping; verbal tasks were anagram-solution in silent and aloud conditions; nonverbal tasks were solution of Raven's Progressive Matrices and forms memory. Both handedness groups were sensitive to the task manipulation, i.e., verbal tasks produced a significant change in tapping rate from a no-change rate of zero; nonverbal tasks produced no significant change in tapping rate. Right-handers experienced the expected asymmetric manual performance indicative of left-hemisphere language laterality. Left-handers as a group experienced no asymmetric pattern but rather a percentage decrease in both hands which suggested bilateralization of language functions. Only when examining manual performance patterns within specific left-handed subpopulations (composed of a complete crossing of handwriting posture, familial sinistrality, and sex) did laterality patterns emerge. Specifically, asymmetric manual performance was found only in familial sinistral inverted posture females. Results demonstrate the advantage of controlling for subject characteristics when assessing cerebral laterality in left-handers.}, }
@article {pmid8091149, year = {1994}, author = {Nanki, T and Tomiyama, J and Arai, S}, title = {Mixed connective tissue disease associated with multicentric Castleman's disease.}, journal = {Scandinavian journal of rheumatology}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {215-217}, doi = {10.3109/03009749409103064}, pmid = {8091149}, issn = {0300-9742}, mesh = {Castleman Disease/*complications/genetics/immunology ; Female ; HLA-DR4 Antigen/blood ; Humans ; Interleukin-6/blood ; Middle Aged ; Mixed Connective Tissue Disease/*complications/genetics/immunology ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications/genetics/immunology ; Prednisolone/therapeutic use ; Sex Chromosome Aberrations ; X Chromosome ; }, abstract = {We describe a 60-year-old woman who developed mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) associated with multicentric Castleman's disease (MCD) and Crow-Fukase syndrome (CFS). She showed HLA DR-4 antigen and an abnormal X chromosome (47,XXX). The serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) level was markedly increased and IL-6 mRNA was detected in enlarged lymph node cells. After prednisolone was administered, her IL-6 level decreased and the symptoms of MCTD, MCD, and CFS all improved. Thus, IL-6 may be involved in the modification of the pathologic condition in this patient.}, }
@article {pmid8090864, year = {1994}, author = {Martin, M and Ewert, O and Schwanenflugel, PJ}, title = {The role of verbal ability in the processing of complex verbal information.}, journal = {Psychological research}, volume = {56}, number = {4}, pages = {301-309}, pmid = {8090864}, issn = {0340-0727}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Reaction Time ; *Verbal Learning ; }, abstract = {This study investigated the relation between psychometric mental-ability test scores and several reaction-time measures; a simple-reaction task, a choice-reaction task, the Posner and Mitchell (1967) letter-identification task, and a variation of the sentence-verification task. Scores on the Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices and the Verbal Subtest of the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SATV) were obtained. The less complex information-processing tasks replicate earlier studies in which general intelligence was only marginally related to reaction-time measures. The sentence-verification task systematically varied task complexity. Several direct and derived measures from the task were significantly correlated with psychometric mentalability measures. However, even though a number of precautions were taken to ensure that the sentence-verification task assessed purely verbal-processing efficiency, there was little evidence for an important task-specific relation between verification measures and verbal ability. Moreover, despite its relative verbal complexity, sentence verification did not reflect a greater relationship to verbal ability than other tasks did. Overall, the information-processing efficiency measures used in this study suggested a fairly general, rather than a task-specific, relationship to intellectual ability.}, }
@article {pmid8053122, year = {1994}, author = {Hejlícek, K and Treml, F and Cerný, L}, title = {[Epizootiology and pathogenesis of avian mycobacteriosis in the field rook (Corvus frugilegus)].}, journal = {Veterinarni medicina}, volume = {39}, number = {6}, pages = {337-344}, pmid = {8053122}, issn = {0375-8427}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Czech Republic/epidemiology ; Tuberculosis, Avian/*epidemiology ; }, abstract = {The occurrence of avian mycobacteriosis in the rook (C. frugilegus) was investigated in the years 1966-1985. A total of 188 birds captured at three localities of the Czech Republic were subjected to patho-morphological examination and to culture examination. Patho-anatomic lesions were observed in five rooks (2.6%), M. avium was isolated from 10 rooks (5.3%). Positive findings occurred in each examined locality. Rook sensitivity to M. avium infection was tested by experimental infections. After intramuscular infection with M. avium suspension macroscopic tuberculosis lesions were found out at the place of puncture, histological lesions in liver and spleen at the beginning of the trial (days 12-35). Mycobacteria were isolated from particular organs and tissues, more frequently at the beginning of the trial. Peroral infection by feed contaminated with liver of tuberculous fowl failed to induce tuberculous lesions, while a proof of M. avium from the organs was the only one after 157 days. The contact of the rook with the tuberculous fowl did not lead to the origin of tuberculous lesions after 238 days nor were the mycobacteria proved in the rook tissues. In comparison with e.g. the house sparrow, tree sparrow and pheasant, the rook is very resistant to M. avium infection according to the results of experimental infections. A relatively frequent occurrence of tuberculous processes or of mycobacteria in the rook captured in the open area is probably conditioned by a possibility of repeated, frequent contacts of the rook with the contaminated environment during its longer life.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid7914043, year = {1994}, author = {Schooler, NR}, title = {Deficit symptoms in schizophrenia: negative symptoms versus neuroleptic-induced deficits.}, journal = {Acta psychiatrica Scandinavica. Supplementum}, volume = {380}, number = {}, pages = {21-26}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-0447.1994.tb05827.x}, pmid = {7914043}, issn = {0065-1591}, mesh = {Affective Symptoms/chemically induced/diagnosis/psychology ; Antipsychotic Agents/*adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Arousal/*drug effects ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Humans ; *Motivation ; Neurologic Examination ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Schizophrenia/diagnosis/*drug therapy ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; }, abstract = {Definitions of negative symptoms and deficit syndromes are reviewed in this article; rating scale criteria (the Scale for Assessment of Negative Symptoms and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale); Crow's type II syndrome; Carpenter's deficit syndrome; and the draft of DSM-IV. The core negative symptoms identified by these investigators also describe the neuroleptic-induced deficit syndrome (NIDS). Study designs and assessment methods to distinguish NIDS from the symptoms of schizophrenia are presented. Assessment methods include rating scales and a novel method that uses descriptive symptom vignettes. Designs include neuroleptic discontinuation studies, dose comparisons and comparison of atypical antipsychotic medicines to typical neuroleptic drugs.}, }
@article {pmid7888610, year = {1994}, author = {Pedersen, M and Johnsson, A}, title = {A study of the singularities in a mathematical model for circadian rhythms.}, journal = {Bio Systems}, volume = {33}, number = {3}, pages = {193-201}, doi = {10.1016/0303-2647(94)90004-3}, pmid = {7888610}, issn = {0303-2647}, mesh = {Animals ; Circadian Rhythm/*physiology ; Computer Simulation ; Humans ; Light ; Mathematics ; *Models, Biological ; }, abstract = {One of the models that has been suggested for describing circadian rhythms mathematically is an extension of the van der Pol equation given by ÿ + 0.5(y2 + y-2 - 3)y + (1 + 0.6 y) y = z + z + z, where y is the oscillating variable, and z is the light intensity assumed to excite the oscillator. In order for the equation to exhibit self-sustained oscillations, z has to be within the oscillatory range (0.847 < z < 3.189). This equation has been shown to simulate several of the features possessed by circadian systems (Wever, R., 1984, Toward a mathematical model of circadian rhythmicity, in: Mathematical Models of the Circadian Sleep-Wake Cycle, M.C. Moore-Ede and C.A. Czeisler (eds.) (Raven Press, New York) pp. 17-79). Physiological experiments have been performed which show that circadian rhythms can have stable singularities. Therefore, it was of interest to investigate whether or not the equation given above also has this property. We have studied the stability of the two singularities of the model system above. One of the singularities is unstable and corresponds to non-physiological conditions. The other one is an unstable spiral point if the light conditions are such that oscillations can occur in the system. We conclude that the model mentioned above is unsuitable to describe circadian systems which have stable singularities. The model has been simulated, and pulses have been applied to the system by temporarily changing the value of z to find appropriate conditions forcing the system into its singularity. The strategy to find such pulses is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid7708268, year = {1994}, author = {Chazot, C and Dijoud, F and Trolliet, P and Charra, B and Ruffet, M and Terrat, JC and Vanel, T and Calemard, E and Laurent, G}, title = {Crow-Fukase disease/POEMS syndrome presenting with severe microangiopathic involvement of the kidney.}, journal = {Nephrology, dialysis, transplantation : official publication of the European Dialysis and Transplant Association - European Renal Association}, volume = {9}, number = {12}, pages = {1800-1802}, pmid = {7708268}, issn = {0931-0509}, mesh = {Female ; Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome/*etiology ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications ; }, }
@article {pmid7618638, year = {1994}, author = {Blechner, BB and Hager, CL and Williams, NR}, title = {The Jay Healey technique: teaching law and ethics to medical and dental students.}, journal = {American journal of law &amp; medicine}, volume = {20}, number = {4}, pages = {439-455}, pmid = {7618638}, issn = {0098-8588}, mesh = {Canada ; Connecticut ; *Curriculum ; Education, Dental/*methods ; Education, Medical/*methods ; Ethics, Medical/*education ; *Legislation, Medical ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid7526451, year = {1994}, author = {Capitani, E and Della Sala, S and Marchetti, C}, title = {Is there a cognitive impairment in MND? A survey with longitudinal data.}, journal = {Schweizer Archiv fur Neurologie und Psychiatrie (Zurich, Switzerland : 1985)}, volume = {145}, number = {1}, pages = {11-13}, pmid = {7526451}, issn = {0258-7661}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Dementia/*diagnosis/psychology ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Motor Neuron Disease/*diagnosis/psychology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {Twenty-nine patients affected by motor neuron disease (MND) were investigated with the Raven Progressive Matrices, a test of logical non verbal intelligence, requiring neither motor nor verbal skills. The score distribution of the MND patients did not differ from that of 321 controls. Eleven of these patients were retested after a mean interval of 8.5 months. The resulting differences in the test scores showed that their intellectual performance had not worsened over time. Even allowing for the limitations posed by the use of a single test, these data add to the evidence against systematic cognitive involvement in MND.}, }
@article {pmid11639285, year = {1993}, author = {Harris, B}, title = {The demographic impact of the First World War: an anthropometric perspective.}, journal = {Social history of medicine : the journal of the Society for the Social History of Medicine}, volume = {6}, number = {3}, pages = {343-366}, doi = {10.1093/shm/6.3.343}, pmid = {11639285}, issn = {0951-631X}, mesh = {*Demography ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; United Kingdom ; *Warfare ; }, abstract = {During the 1970s and 1980s Jay Winter published a series of highly influential articles on the demographic impact of the First World War, culminating in his study of The Great War and the British People in 1986. Winter argued that the war led to a dramatic improvement in average living standards, and that the survival chances of most sections of the civilian population improved more rapidly than they might have done if peace had been maintained. This paper seeks to test the strength of Winter's hypothesis in three main ways. Section I examines the arguments which Winter himself put forward to support his view that the war led to a systematic erosion of pre-war differentials in infant mortality. Section III utilizes evidence relating to children's heights to examine the extent to which the war led to improvements in children's 'nutritional status'. The paper's overall conclusion is that the war did not lead to any dramatic improvements in civilian health; the overall impression to be gained from an analysis of wartime health statistics is one of continuity rather than change.}, }
@article {pmid8284167, year = {1993}, author = {Grossi, D and Correra, G and Calise, C and Ruscitto, MA and Vecchione, V and Vigliardi, MV and Nolfe, G}, title = {Evaluation of the influence of illiteracy on neuropsychological performances by elderly persons.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {77}, number = {3 Pt 1}, pages = {859-866}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1993.77.3.859}, pmid = {8284167}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over/psychology ; Aging/*psychology ; *Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Italy ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychometrics ; Reference Values ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Rural Population ; }, abstract = {The aim of the present study was to verify the role of the primary notions acquired in early school in the formation of a general strategy in elaboration of information. For this purpose we selected a tiny rural village in southern Italy which comprises a substantial number of elderly persons having very little formal schooling. These subjects were screened using a test battery composed of classic neuropsychological tests and reaction-time tests. In the subjects studied we observed a significant correlation between the amount of education and the neuropsychological performances, although no such correlation existed for reaction times. Subjects having little schooling (up to 3 years) performed better than the illiterate persons on the Constructional Apraxia test and on the Raven Matrices. However, the reaction times were similar in these groups. On this basis we claim that reaction-time tests might form a basic tool in evaluating cognitive performances of persons with very little schooling. Further, the primary notions learned during the first few years of schooling induce an improvement in mental strategies that is well-preserved in the normal aging process.}, }
@article {pmid8138864, year = {1993}, author = {Powers, SW and Blount, RL and Bachanas, PJ and Cotter, MW and Swan, SC}, title = {Helping preschool leukemia patients and their parents cope during injections.}, journal = {Journal of pediatric psychology}, volume = {18}, number = {6}, pages = {681-695}, doi = {10.1093/jpepsy/18.6.681}, pmid = {8138864}, issn = {0146-8693}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Psychological ; Behavior Therapy ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; Injections, Intramuscular/*psychology ; Injections, Intravenous/*psychology ; Mothers/education/*psychology ; Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma/*psychology/therapy ; *Sick Role ; }, abstract = {Taught 4 preschool leukemia patients (ages 3-5) to engage in specific coping behaviors before and during painful intramuscular and intravenous injections. Parents were taught to coach their children in the use of the coping behaviors. Intervention was delivered in a multiple baseline across-subjects design. Parent and child behavior was coded using the Child-Adult Medical Procedure Interaction Scale-Revised (CAMPIS-R, Blount, Powers, &amp; Sturges) and Observation Scale of Behavioral Distress (OSBD, Elliott, Jay, Woody). Parents and nurses rated child behavior as well. Results indicated that parents learned coping-promoting behaviors, children learned specific coping behaviors, and children displayed less behavioral distress. Maintenance of behavior change was addressed. Contributions of this study to the current literature on children's coping with invasive medical procedures and implications for future research and clinical practice are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid8119583, year = {1993}, author = {Brusintseva, OV and El'chinova, GI and Kadoshnikova, MIu and Mamedova, RA}, title = {[Comparison of the population of the Krasnodar region with other Russian populations regarding genetic and demographic parameters].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {29}, number = {12}, pages = {2074-2080}, pmid = {8119583}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Age Distribution ; Female ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Male ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Outcome ; Rural Population ; Russia ; Sex Distribution ; Urban Population ; }, abstract = {The estimates of some genetical and demographical parameters important for populational structure of the population of West part of Krasnodar province are presented. The differences in forming of population structure of districts was revealed. In general, the decrescent type of reproduction, active family planning (average family value is 2.10 +/- 0.07 when average pregnancy quantity is 6.31 +/- 0.32), significant migration activity approached rural populations of Krasnodar district to those of urban type. The migration processes was the main factor of structure population forming. When effort of natural selection was studied the decrease of index Crow was discovered in comparison with rural Russian populations Kirov and Kostroma regions. Population of Krasnodar district approaches to pan-mixture one by genetic and demographic parameters. It can be considered as a gene sample from all regions when Russian live.}, }
@article {pmid11607439, year = {1993}, author = {Pimm, SL and Diamond, J and Reed, TM and Russell, GJ and Verner, J}, title = {Times to extinction for small populations of large birds.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {90}, number = {22}, pages = {10871-10875}, doi = {10.1073/pnas.90.22.10871}, pmid = {11607439}, issn = {0027-8424}, abstract = {A major practical problem in conservation biology is to predict the survival times-"lifetimes"-for small populations under alternative proposed management regimes. Examples in the United States include the 'Alala (Hawaiian Crow; Corvus hawaiiensis) and Northern Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis caurina). To guide such decisions, we analyze counts of all crow, owl, and hawk species in the most complete available data set: counts of bird breeding pairs on 14 European islands censused for 29-66 consecutive years. The data set yielded 129 records for analysis. We define the population ceiling as the highest number of breeding pairs observed from colonization to extinction, within a consecutive series of counts for a given species on a given island. The resulting distributions of population lifetimes as a function of population size prove to be highly skewed: most small populations disappear quickly, but a few last for a long time. Median (i.e., 50th percentile) lifetimes are calculated as only 1-5 yr for hawk, owl, and crow populations with ceilings of one or two breeding pairs. As expected if demographic accidents are the main cause of extinction for small populations, lifetimes rise by a factor of 3-4 for each additional pair up to three pairs. They rise more slowly thereafter. These observations suggest that lifetimes of the 'Alala (now reduced to about three pairs in the wild), and of populations of Northern Spotted Owl in the smallest forest fragments, will be short unless active management is implemented.}, }
@article {pmid8277851, year = {1993}, author = {Helm-Bychowski, K and Cracraft, J}, title = {Recovering phylogenetic signal from DNA sequences: relationships within the corvine assemblage (class aves) as inferred from complete sequences of the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome-b gene.}, journal = {Molecular biology and evolution}, volume = {10}, number = {6}, pages = {1196-1214}, doi = {10.1093/oxfordjournals.molbev.a040072}, pmid = {8277851}, issn = {0737-4038}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; Birds/classification/*genetics ; Cytochrome b Group/*genetics ; DNA Primers ; DNA, Mitochondrial/analysis/*genetics ; Models, Genetic ; Molecular Sequence Data ; *Phylogeny ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Sequence Homology, Nucleic Acid ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Phylogenetic analysis of cytochrome-b sequences and cranial osteological characters for nine genera of corvine passerine birds supports the hypothesis that the two major groups of birds of paradise, the manucodines and paradisaeinines, constitute a monophyletic group and that their postulated sister group is the Corvidae (crows, jays, and allies). The data are also consistent with the hypothesis that the bowerbirds are not closely related to the birds of paradise but instead lie near the base of the corvine assemblage. The corvine radiation exemplifies a case of multiple star phylogenies embedded within a major clade, with the branching pattern characterized by very short internodal divergence times. Such histories are difficult to resolve no matter what type of data is employed, because little change accumulates between branching events. With respect to sequence data, reconstructed tree topologies are sensitive to the choice of outgroup and to the method of analysis (e.g., transversion vs. global parsimony). In such cases, assessing the "reliability" of a best-fit or most-parsimonious tree inferred from any particular data set becomes problematic. Statistical tests of tree topologies that depend on random sampling of characters will generally be inconclusive in that all cladistic components will tend to be poorly supported because relatively few character-state changes will be recorded between branching events. It is suggested, on the other hand, that congruence in cladistic signal across different data sets may be a potentially more useful method for evaluating the reliability of the signal of any one data set. Resolution of star phylogenies will probably be possible only if DNA sequence and morphological characters are combined in a single analysis.}, }
@article {pmid8272833, year = {1993}, author = {Dmowski, K and Golimowski, J}, title = {Feathers of the magpie (Pica pica) as a bioindicator material for heavy metal pollution assessment.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {139-140}, number = {}, pages = {251-258}, doi = {10.1016/0048-9697(93)90024-z}, pmid = {8272833}, issn = {0048-9697}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Cadmium/*analysis ; Electrochemistry/methods ; Environmental Monitoring/*methods ; Environmental Pollution/*analysis ; Feathers/*chemistry ; Geography ; Industry ; Lead/*analysis ; Poland ; }, abstract = {This study examined the lead and cadmium content of external tail feathers of magpies from 15 localities in Poland, differing in degree of industralization and urbanization. Extremely high levels (up to 1500 micrograms/g dry wt. Pb and about 40 micrograms/g dry wt. Cd) were found in samples from areas surrounding two zinc smelting works. The correlation between metal content in feathers and size of immission (mg/m2/y) at the sites of capture was 0.96 for Pb and 0.97 for Cd. Magpie tail feathers are recommended as a material for environmental biomonitoring.}, }
@article {pmid8238165, year = {1993}, author = {Wesley, BD and van den Berg, BJ and Reece, EA}, title = {The effect of forceps delivery on cognitive development.}, journal = {American journal of obstetrics and gynecology}, volume = {169}, number = {5}, pages = {1091-1095}, doi = {10.1016/0002-9378(93)90261-g}, pmid = {8238165}, issn = {0002-9378}, mesh = {*Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Cohort Studies ; Delivery, Obstetric/*methods ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Mothers ; *Obstetrical Forceps ; Pregnancy ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the influence of forceps delivery on cognitive development of preschool children.<br><br>STUDY DESIGN: A cohort of 3413 children who were born at the Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Oakland, California, were selected at age 5 for intelligence quotient testing with the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test and the Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices. Data were analyzed by means of the Student t test to compare mean intelligence quotient scores of intervention modes of delivery with spontaneous delivery.<br><br>RESULTS: No significant difference in intelligence quotient was seen in 1192 children delivered by forceps (114 midforceps) compared with 1499 who were delivered spontaneously.<br><br>CONCLUSION: The association of forceps delivery with adverse cognitive development cannot be supported.}, }
@article {pmid8223623, year = {1993}, author = {Arts, EG and Kuiken, J and Jager, S and Hoekstra, D}, title = {Fusion of artificial membranes with mammalian spermatozoa. Specific involvement of the equatorial segment after acrosome reaction.}, journal = {European journal of biochemistry}, volume = {217}, number = {3}, pages = {1001-1009}, doi = {10.1111/j.1432-1033.1993.tb18331.x}, pmid = {8223623}, issn = {0014-2956}, mesh = {*Acrosome ; Animals ; Cattle ; Cryopreservation ; Female ; Humans ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Liposomes ; Male ; *Membrane Fusion ; *Membranes, Artificial ; Microscopy, Fluorescence ; Sperm-Ovum Interactions ; Spermatozoa/*cytology ; Zona Pellucida ; }, abstract = {The fusogenic properties of bovine and human spermatozoa membranes were investigated, using phospholipid bilayers (liposomes) as target membranes. Fusion was monitored by following lipid mixing, as revealed by an assay based on resonance-energy transfer. In addition, fusion was visualized by fluorescence microscopy, using fluorescent lipid vesicles. Cryopreserved bovine sperm fused with liposomes before induction of the acrosome reaction, fluorescence being located in essentially all spermatozoa membrane domains. Fresh bovine and human spermatozoa fused with liposomes only after the induction of the acrosome reaction, as triggered by calcium ionophore A23187 or zonae pellucidae (proteins), while the fluorescence distribution was mainly restricted to the equatorial segment (ES). However, with spermatozoa that had undergone a freeze/thawing cycle, domains other than ES also became labeled. Hence, the redistribution of the lipid probes over the entire membrane occurring during lipid mixing with cryopreserved bovine sperm is probably related to membrane perturbations caused by long-term cryopreservation. Fusion with liposomes was governed by spermatozoa factors and required the presence of acidic phospholipids like cardiolipin and phosphatidylserine in the liposomal bilayer. Incorporation of the zwitterionic lipid phosphatidylcholine in the vesicles inhibited the fusion reaction. Fusion was pH dependent. The results indicate that the ES is the primary domain of spermatozoa membranes that harbours the fusogenic capacity of sperm. Liposomes appear a valuable tool in further characterizing the properties of this domain, which has been claimed [Yanagimachi, R. (1988) in The physiology of reproduction (Knobil, E. &amp; Neill, J., eds) pp. 135-185, Raven Press, New York] to represent the putative, initial fusion site for the oocyte.}, }
@article {pmid8222450, year = {1993}, author = {Morgan, JM and Biehl, WC and Wagner, FW}, title = {Management of neuropathic arthropathy with the Charcot Restraint Orthotic Walker.}, journal = {Clinical orthopaedics and related research}, volume = {}, number = {296}, pages = {58-63}, pmid = {8222450}, issn = {0009-921X}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Arthropathy, Neurogenic/diagnostic imaging/*therapy ; Diabetic Neuropathies/complications/*therapy ; Female ; Fractures, Bone/etiology/*therapy ; Humans ; Locomotion ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Orthotic Devices ; Patient Satisfaction ; Radiography ; }, abstract = {A recently designed Charcot Restraint Orthotic Walker (CROW) was used in the treatment of 18 patients with diabetic neuroarthropathy involving the foot and ankle. Eight of these patients had no surgery before the use of the CROW. In ten patients, the device was used for prolonged immobilization after surgery for complications of neuropathic joint disease. The CROW is a rigid, custom, full-foot enclosure ankle-foot orthosis. It was used after an initial period of cast immobilization. The CROW effectively controls limb edema, returns the patient to ambulatory activities, and prevents significant progression of deformity. All patients rated their satisfaction with the device as good or excellent. The CROW is an attractive alternative to currently used methods to provide the prolonged immobilization and protection necessary for healing in neuropathic arthropathy.}, }
@article {pmid8124874, year = {1993}, author = {Nakazawa, M and Kitamura, S and Nagazumi, A and Terashi, A}, title = {[Cognitive function and its evaluation methods in Parkinson's disease--a study including RCPM and ERP].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {33}, number = {11}, pages = {1157-1163}, pmid = {8124874}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Aged ; *Cognition ; *Evoked Potentials, Auditory ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Parkinson Disease/diagnosis/*psychology ; *Psychological Tests ; }, abstract = {In order to investigate features of cognitive impairment in idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD) and suitable methods for the cognitive evaluation of patients with PD, 23 PD patients and 15 normal control subjects were studied using neuropsychological tests and auditory event-related potential (ERP). The two groups did not differ from each other in age or education. Clinical severity of the patients based on Hoehn &amp; Yahr's staging ranged from stage I to IV: 7 patients at stage I, 8 at stage II, 7 at stage III and 1 at stage IV. All patients achieved the Mini-Mental State test (MMS) scores of 24 or greater, and none of the patients showed middle or serious grade of dementia based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Third edition-Revised (DSM-III-R). All patients and controls underwent MMS, the Hasegawa's Dementia Screening Scale (HDS), the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (WAIS-R), the Raven's coloured progressive matrices (RCPM), The Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) and the Benton Visual Retention Test (BVRT). Auditory ERPs by standard oddball paradigm (two-choice reaction time task) were elicited (band-pass 0.1-50 Hz) from Cz electrode sites on all subjects with a random series of binaural 1,000 (standard; 80%) or 2,000 (target; 20%) Hz tones presented every 2 sec at 70 dB SPL. In RCPM, N100 peak latencies of ERP (target and standard), performance-IQ of WAIS-R (especially block design and digit symbol subtests) and in error scores of BVRT there were striking differences between the two groups (p < 0.001).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid11656324, year = {1993}, author = {Pellegrino, ED}, title = {Autonomy, beneficence, and the experimental subject's consent: a response to Jay Katz.}, journal = {Saint Louis University law journal}, volume = {38}, number = {1}, pages = {55-62}, pmid = {11656324}, issn = {0036-3030}, mesh = {*Altruism ; *Beneficence ; Decision Making ; *Disclosure ; Ethics Committees ; Ethics Committees, Research ; Federal Government ; *Freedom ; Government ; Government Regulation ; *Human Experimentation ; Human Rights ; Humans ; *Informed Consent ; Moral Obligations ; *Paternalism ; Patients ; Peer Review ; *Personal Autonomy ; Physician-Patient Relations ; *Physicians ; Privacy ; *Research Personnel ; *Research Subjects ; *Researcher-Subject Relations ; Social Control, Formal ; Social Responsibility ; *Social Values ; *Virtues ; }, }
@article {pmid8247692, year = {1993}, author = {Sparrow, WA and Wright, BJ}, title = {Effect of physical exercise on the performance of cognitive tasks.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {77}, number = {2}, pages = {675-679}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1993.77.2.675}, pmid = {8247692}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Adult ; *Cognition ; Exercise/*psychology ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Problem Solving ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {This experiment examined the effect of physical exercise on measures of cognitive performance, Raven's Matrices, and an adaptation of the revised WAIS arithmetic subtest. We also tested the inverted-U hypothesis of an interactive relation between exercise-induced arousal and cognitive performance. 50 physically active men were assigned to five groups (n = 10) of equal physical fitness based on predicted maximum oxygen uptake. Three exercise groups undertook bench stepping at mean power outputs of either 47, 75, or 120 watts. One control group played Bingo and another control had no activity. There was no change in the Raven's Matrices scores pre- to posttest intervention, neither were there any between-group differences either pre- or posttest. The arithmetic scores were significantly higher over-all (p < .05) on the posttest, but there were no reliable differences between groups either pre- or posttest. These results suggest that short duration (6 min.) aerobic exercise has no effect on cognitive performance. This finding supports the majority of previous studies that used step-up tasks to examine the relation between physical exercise and cognitive performance.}, }
@article {pmid8227519, year = {1993}, author = {Miller, MW and Dow-Edwards, DL}, title = {Vibrissal stimulation affects glucose utilization in the trigeminal/somatosensory system of normal rats and rats prenatally exposed to ethanol.}, journal = {The Journal of comparative neurology}, volume = {335}, number = {2}, pages = {283-284}, doi = {10.1002/cne.903350211}, pmid = {8227519}, issn = {0021-9967}, support = {AA 06916/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; AA 07568/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; DE 07734/DE/NIDCR NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Autoradiography ; Deoxyglucose/metabolism ; Diet ; Ethanol/*toxicity ; Female ; Glucose/*metabolism ; Physical Stimulation ; Pregnancy ; *Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects ; Rats ; Somatosensory Cortex/cytology/*metabolism ; Thalamus/cytology/metabolism ; Trigeminal Nerve/cytology/*metabolism ; Vibrissae/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The effect of gestational ethanol exposure on stimulus-induced sensory activity in the trigeminal/somatosensory system was determined. The mature offspring of mothers fed an ethanol-containing diet (Et) or pair-fed a nutritionally matched control diet (Ct) were examined. The C-row mystacial whiskers were stimulated. Glucose utilization in the principal sensory nucleus of the trigeminal nerve (PSN), ventrobasal thalamus, and somatosensory cortex was determined with [14C]2-deoxyglucose autoradiography. In Ct- and Et-treated rats, whisker stimulation increased glucose utilization in C-row barrel(oid)s in the left PSN, the right ventrobasal thalamus, and the right somatosensory cortex. The rate of glucose utilization in the C-row barrel(oid)s and in nonstimulated regions was lower in the Et-treated rats than in controls. In the cortices of Ct-treated rats, the activity in the C-row barrels on the right side was greater than in the right nonbarrel somatosensory cortex. Et-treated rats also exhibited an increase in glucose utilization, albeit smaller than that in the Ct-treated rats. In contrast, the glucose utilization in the left B- and C-row barrels of Ct-treated rats was decreased. No such decrease was evident in the left cortices of Et-treated rats. Thus, stroking whiskers stimulates the activity of sites in the trigeminal/somatosensory system. In cortex, the definition of these sites is emphasized by depressed activity, i.e., "surround" inhibition, in sites connected via callosal or corticocortical projections. Prenatal exposure to ethanol depresses the metabolic activity regardless of the physiological state; however, the "surround" inhibition of cortical activity is eliminated by prenatal exposure to ethanol through an exuberant projection.}, }
@article {pmid8234905, year = {1993}, author = {Marks, NJ and Shaw, C and Halton, DW and Maule, AG and Curry, WJ and Verhaert, P and Thim, L}, title = {Isolation and primary structure of a novel avian pancreatic polypeptide from five species of Eurasian crow.}, journal = {Regulatory peptides}, volume = {47}, number = {2}, pages = {187-194}, doi = {10.1016/0167-0115(93)90423-6}, pmid = {8234905}, issn = {0167-0115}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Birds/*metabolism ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Molecular Weight ; Pancreas/chemistry ; Pancreatic Polypeptide/*chemistry/*isolation &amp; purification ; Sequence Homology, Amino Acid ; }, abstract = {Chicken pancreatic polypeptide is the prototype of the neuropeptide Y (NPY)/PP superfamily of regulatory peptides. This polypeptide was appended the descriptive term avian, despite the presence of some 8600 extant species of bird. Additional primary structures from other avian species, including turkey, goose and ostrich, would suggest that the primary structure of this polypeptide has been highly-conserved during avian evolution. Avian pancreatic polypeptides structurally-characterised to date have distinctive primary structural features unique to this vertebrate group including an N-terminal glycyl residue and a histidyl residue at position 34. The crow family, Corvidae, is representative of the order Passeriformes, generally regarded as the most evolutionarily recent and diverse avian taxon. Pancreatic polypeptide has been isolated from pancreatic tissues from five representative Eurasian species (the magpie, Pica pica; the jay, Garrulus glandarius; the hooded crow, Corvus corone; the rook, Corvus frugilegus; the jackdaw, Corvus monedula) and subjected to structural analyses. Mass spectroscopy estimated the molecular mass of each peptide as 4166 +/- 2 Da. The entire primary structures of 36 amino acid residue peptides were established in single gas-phase sequencing runs. The primary structures of pancreatic polypeptides from all species investigated were identical: APAQPAYPGDDAPVEDLLRFYNDLQQYLNVVTRPRY. The peptides were deemed to be amidated due to their full molar cross-reactivity with the amide-requiring PP antiserum employed. The molecular mass (4165.6 Da), calculated from the sequences, was in close agreement with mass spectroscopy estimates. The presence of an N-terminal alanyl residue and a prolyl residue at position 34 differentiates crow PP from counterparts in other avian species.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid8398136, year = {1993}, author = {Diamond, P and Mallavarapu, A and Schnipper, J and Booth, J and Park, L and O'Connor, TP and Jay, DG}, title = {Fasciclin I and II have distinct roles in the development of grasshopper pioneer neurons.}, journal = {Neuron}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {409-421}, doi = {10.1016/0896-6273(93)90146-i}, pmid = {8398136}, issn = {0896-6273}, mesh = {Animals ; Axons/physiology/radiation effects/ultrastructure ; Cell Adhesion Molecules, Neuronal/*physiology ; Cellular Senescence/physiology ; Grasshoppers/embryology ; Lasers ; Neurons/*physiology/ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {We have used a new technique, micro-CALI (chromophore-assisted laser inactivation), to investigate the function of the neural cell adhesion molecules fasciclin I and II in the development of the grasshopper Ti1 neurons. Micro-CALI of fasciclin I results in defasciculation of the Ti1 axons similar to that achieved using large scale CALI (Jay and Keshishian, 1990). The initial point of axon separation corresponds to the site of laser irradiation, and defasciculation always continues distal to this point. Micro-CALI of fasciclin II prevents the initiation of Ti1 axon outgrowth but has no effect on fasciculation. This effect is restricted to a 3 hr interval between cytokinesis and growth cone emergence.}, }
@article {pmid8306646, year = {1993}, author = {Templer, DI and Kaiser, G and Siscoe, K}, title = {Correlates of pathological gambling propensity in prison inmates.}, journal = {Comprehensive psychiatry}, volume = {34}, number = {5}, pages = {347-351}, doi = {10.1016/0010-440x(93)90022-v}, pmid = {8306646}, issn = {0010-440X}, mesh = {Adult ; Gambling/*psychology ; Humans ; MMPI/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Mental Disorders/classification/diagnosis/psychology ; Middle Aged ; Nevada ; Prisoners/*psychology ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {The South Oaks Gambling Inventory was administered to 136 consecutively admitted inmates in a medium-security prison in Nevada. According to the criteria of the authors of this instrument, 22.79% of these inmates had some problem and 26% were probable pathological gamblers. Significant positive correlations with the F, depression, psychopathic deviate, psychasthenia, paranoia, schizophrenia, and Mac Andrew alcoholism scales of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) were found. Gambling score was negatively correlated with the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices measure of intelligence. Clinical implications are suggested.}, }
@article {pmid8254647, year = {1993}, author = {Mannelli, A and Kitron, U and Jones, CJ and Slajchert, TL}, title = {Ixodes dammini (Acari: Ixodidae) infestation on medium-sized mammals and blue jays in northwestern Illinois.}, journal = {Journal of medical entomology}, volume = {30}, number = {5}, pages = {950-952}, doi = {10.1093/jmedent/30.5.950}, pmid = {8254647}, issn = {0022-2585}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology ; Birds ; Host-Parasite Interactions ; Illinois/epidemiology ; Mammals/*parasitology ; Prevalence ; Tick Infestations/epidemiology/*veterinary ; Ticks/*growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {High prevalence of infestation of five species of medium-sized mammals and blue jays, Cyanocitta cristata (L.), by immature Ixodes dammini Spielman, Clifford, Piesman and Corwin was found in Castle Rock State Park in northwestern Illinois during May-August 1991. Raccoons, Procyon lotor L., and opossums, Didelphis virginiana Kerr, were infested with the highest larval densities and were trapped primarily in bottomland forest and ecotone habitats. All species had similar nymphal densities, except the eastern cottontails, Sylvilagus floridanus Allen, which were infested with fewer nymphs. Infestation by I. dammini is reported for the first time for fox squirrels, Sciurus niger E. G. St. Hilaire, and for the first time in the midwestern United States for blue jays, C. cristata. These two species were hosts for nymphs in upland forest habitat. Molting rates varied among ticks that fed on different host species and among larvae that fed on individuals of the same species. Molting rate is proposed as an important factor in determining the relative importance of a host species to I. dammini population dynamics.}, }
@article {pmid8369962, year = {1993}, author = {Taniguchi, M and Murakami, N and Nakamura, H and Nasu, T and Shinohara, S and Etoh, T}, title = {Melatonin release from pineal cells of diurnal and nocturnal birds.}, journal = {Brain research}, volume = {620}, number = {2}, pages = {297-300}, doi = {10.1016/0006-8993(93)90169-n}, pmid = {8369962}, issn = {0006-8993}, mesh = {8-Bromo Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate/pharmacology ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Cells, Cultured ; *Circadian Rhythm ; Columbidae/*physiology ; Melatonin/*metabolism ; *Motor Activity ; Pineal Gland/cytology/drug effects/*metabolism ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Melatonin release from the pineal cells of chicks, pigeons and crows (diurnal birds) in vitro was compared with that from owls (a nocturnal bird). The pineal cells of diurnal birds secreted large amounts of melatonin during the dark period, whereas owl pineal cells released virtually no melatonin over 24 h and did not respond to exogenous stimulant agents. Histological examination revealed that the owl pineal gland is very small and has a poor vascular network. These results suggest that the pineal gland of owls may have degenerated and is not involved in the circadian clock mechanism in this species.}, }
@article {pmid8400720, year = {1993}, author = {Facon, B and Bollengier, T and Grubar, JC}, title = {Overestimation of mentally retarded persons' IQs using the PPVT: a re-analysis and some implications for future research.}, journal = {Journal of intellectual disability research : JIDR}, volume = {37 (Pt 4)}, number = {}, pages = {373-379}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2788.1993.tb00880.x}, pmid = {8400720}, issn = {0964-2633}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Forecasting ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*diagnosis/psychology ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Psychometrics ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {Numerous validity studies have shown that the PPVT consistently overestimates mentally retarded persons' IQs. One possible interpretation is that this phenomenon is an outcome of the dissociation between their cognitive level and their experience. Indeed, compared to intellectually average subjects of the same mental age, they have had more learning opportunities, simply because they have lived longer. In order to validate this hypothesis, the French version of the PPVT, Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM), and the 1966 version of the Binet-Simon were administered to 90 subjects of various chronological ages matched on mental age (30 nonretarded 5 year olds and two groups of 30 retarded subjects aged 10 and 16 years, respectively). The results indicate that CA exerts a strong effect on vocabulary, but not on RCPM performance. The research implications of this finding are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid8392000, year = {1993}, author = {Précigoux, G and Geoffre, S and Léonard, R and Llido, S and Dautant, A and d'Estaintot, BL and Picard, P and Ménard, A and Guillemain, B and Hospital, M}, title = {Modelling, synthesis and biological activity of a BLV proteinase, made of (only) 116 amino acids.}, journal = {FEBS letters}, volume = {326}, number = {1-3}, pages = {237-240}, doi = {10.1016/0014-5793(93)81798-5}, pmid = {8392000}, issn = {0014-5793}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Endopeptidases/chemical synthesis/*chemistry/metabolism ; Human T-lymphotropic virus 1/enzymology ; Leukemia Virus, Bovine/*enzymology ; Models, Molecular ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Molecular Structure ; Protein Folding ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; Substrate Specificity ; }, abstract = {Bovine leukaemia virus (BLV) is the aetiological agent of Leukosis enzootica bovis [Viral Oncology (1980), G. Klein (Ed.) Raven Press, New York, pp. 231-238], a widely spread disease in cattle. BLV is reported as the animal model of human T-cell leukaemia virus (HLTV) which is the causative agent of adult T-cell leukaemia and tropical spastic paraparesis. Like the viruses themselves, the two retroviral proteinases (PR) are very closely related [Virology 142 (1985) 357-377]. BLV and HTLV-I PR are reported as putative proteins made of 126 [J. Virol. 57 (1986) 826-832] and 125 [FEBS Lett. 293 (1991) 106-110] amino acids, respectively (long sequences), belonging to the aspartyl proteinase family [Nature 329 (1987) 351-354], with the aid of molecular modelling, we show that BLV and HTLV-I proteinases made of only 116 and 115 amino acids, respectively (short sequences), display three-dimensional structures similar to that observed for other retroviral aspartyl proteinases. The models are based on three-dimensional structures of Rous sarcoma virus (RSV PR) and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1 PR). We used solid phase peptide synthesis to produce the putative proteolytic enzyme of BLV (116 amino acids). In this study, we show that the folded synthetic protease accurately hydrolyzes a decapeptide corresponding to the sequence of the Matrice-Capside (MA/CA) cleavage site of the gag polyprotein. In addition, the proteolytic activity is inhibited by a statine ((4S,3S)-4-amino-3-hydroxyl-6-methylheptanoic acid) containing an analogous sequence.}, }
@article {pmid8375320, year = {1993}, author = {Köhler, B}, title = {[Example of the concentration of salmonellae in the environment].}, journal = {DTW. Deutsche tierarztliche Wochenschrift}, volume = {100}, number = {7}, pages = {264-274}, pmid = {8375320}, issn = {0341-6593}, mesh = {Animal Feed/*microbiology ; Animals ; Berlin ; Birds ; *Environmental Microbiology ; Humans ; Plants, Edible/*microbiology ; *Refuse Disposal ; Salmonella/*growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {During a period of 3 years the occurrence of Salmonellas was cleared up on depots for refuse of households around Berlin. The investigations were carried out by susceptible fractionated enrichment in Medium of Rappaport/Vassiliadis. 15.1% of samples were positive (77 out of 511). Most Salmonellas wer detected in soil samples contaminated with feces of birds. The isolation rate reached his maximum during autumn and winter, when great bird herds lived on the depots. Mainly S. typhimurium, S. saint paul and S. enteritidis were found. S. enteritidis LT 17 (Colindale) was isolated first time in former East Germany. Diseased children of Berlin (West) were the source for contamination of refuse of households and wild birds (crows, gulls) with this Lysotype. During 51 months dissemination of Salmonellas in 4 contaminated feedstuff yeast and animal meal plants was examined. Salmonella were found in 12.02% of samples of feedstuff yeast (2047) and 6.2% of samples of animal meal (337). Characteristically was the seasonal distribution during winter and early spring and the persistence of the same serotypes for years. Recontamination by the environment was the main reason for the occurrence of Salmonella. Regular examination of filter dust samples of all production units was a very effective way for detection of Salmonella contamination in feed plants. S. enteritidis was demonstrated in the environment of an animal meal factory 18 months after his shutdown.}, }
@article {pmid8372633, year = {1993}, author = {Measso, G and Zappalà, G and Cavarzeran, F and Crook, TH and Romani, L and Pirozzolo, FJ and Grigoletto, F and Amaducci, LA and Massari, D and Lebowitz, BD}, title = {Raven's colored progressive matrices: a normative study of a random sample of healthy adults.}, journal = {Acta neurologica Scandinavica}, volume = {88}, number = {1}, pages = {70-74}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-0404.1993.tb04190.x}, pmid = {8372633}, issn = {0001-6314}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aging/physiology ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Sex Factors ; Space Perception ; Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices Test (RCPM) was administered to 894 normal healthy adults who were randomly selected in six Italian cities and in the Republic of San Marino. Gender, age, and education significantly influenced overall test performance, and performance on different RCPM subsets. Findings from this large random sample provide demographic corrections to test scores for use in clinical practice.}, }
@article {pmid8365154, year = {1993}, author = {Emslie, ES}, title = {Contact dermatitis due to Metasol D3T in a Jay cushion.}, journal = {Contact dermatitis}, volume = {29}, number = {1}, pages = {41}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-0536.1993.tb04537.x}, pmid = {8365154}, issn = {0105-1873}, mesh = {Dermatitis, Allergic Contact/*etiology ; Fungicides, Industrial/*adverse effects ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Thiadiazines/*adverse effects ; *Wheelchairs ; }, }
@article {pmid8360233, year = {1993}, author = {Jensen, AR and Whang, PA}, title = {Reaction times and intelligence: a comparison of Chinese-American and Anglo-American children.}, journal = {Journal of biosocial science}, volume = {25}, number = {3}, pages = {397-410}, doi = {10.1017/s0021932000020721}, pmid = {8360233}, issn = {0021-9320}, mesh = {Asian/*psychology ; Child ; China/ethnology ; *Cross-Cultural Comparison ; Female ; Humans ; Individuality ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Reaction Time ; }, abstract = {Chinese-American and Anglo-American school children were compared on a nonverbal test of intelligence (Raven's Progressive Matrices) and on twelve chronometric variables which measure the speed with which basic information processes (e.g. stimulus apprehension, decision, and discrimination) can be carried out. All of these tasks are correlated with psychometric intelligence. The two groups differed significantly on most of the variables, but the differences appear to be multidimensional and are not simply due to a group difference in psychometric intelligence, equivalent to about 5 IQ points in favour of the Chinese-Americans. The results are compared with those of Lynn and his colleagues on Bristish, Japanese, and Hong Kong children, and both consistencies and inconsistencies are found.}, }
@article {pmid8286834, year = {1993}, author = {Iwasaki, H and Ogawa, K and Yoshida, H and Takashima, F and Shimizu, K and Lee, JD and Ueda, T and Nakamura, T}, title = {Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with pulmonary hypertension.}, journal = {Internal medicine (Tokyo, Japan)}, volume = {32}, number = {7}, pages = {556-560}, doi = {10.2169/internalmedicine.32.556}, pmid = {8286834}, issn = {0918-2918}, mesh = {Bone Marrow/pathology ; Dyspnea/etiology ; Edema/etiology ; Empty Sella Syndrome/complications ; Female ; Heart Failure/etiology ; Humans ; Hypertension, Pulmonary/drug therapy/*etiology ; Middle Aged ; Myocardium/pathology ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications/diagnosis/drug therapy/pathology ; Prednisolone/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {A 60-year-old woman suffering from heart failure was found to have Crow-Fukase syndrome. A precise cardiovascular study revealed the existence of pulmonary hypertension (PH), cardiomegaly and myocardial hypertrophy in addition to manifestations of this syndrome such as hyperpigmentation, hypertrichosis, finger clubbing, polyneuropathy, organomegaly and plasma cell dyscrasia. These findings suggest the possibility that patients with Crow-Fukase syndrome have cardiopulmonary disorders including PH and cardiomegaly which might cause some cardiovascular symptoms such as peripheral edema and finger clubbing.}, }
@article {pmid8348321, year = {1993}, author = {Montagnese, CM and Krebs, JR and Székely, AD and Csillag, A}, title = {A subpopulation of large calbindin-like immunopositive neurones is present in the hippocampal formation in food-storing but not in non-storing species of bird.}, journal = {Brain research}, volume = {614}, number = {1-2}, pages = {291-300}, doi = {10.1016/0006-8993(93)91047-v}, pmid = {8348321}, issn = {0006-8993}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Calbindins ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Hippocampus/*cytology ; Immunohistochemistry ; Male ; Neurons/*metabolism/ultrastructure ; S100 Calcium Binding Protein G/immunology/*metabolism ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The avian hippocampal formation (HP) is thought to play a role in the processing of spatial memory related to food-storing behaviour. The HP of two food-storing species (marsh tit (Parus palustris) and magpie (Pica pica)) and two non-storing species (great tit (Parus major) and jackdaw (Corvus monedula)) were compared following calbindin-like immunostaining. In the dorsal hippocampal region, both species of food-storing birds had larger calbindin-immunoreactive cells than did the two non-storing species. The fact that this association between storing behaviour and cell morphology is seen in two unrelated families of birds, the Paridae (marsh tit versus great tit) and Corvidae (magpie versus jackdaw) suggests that there may be a direct link between food-storing behaviour and the dorsal hippocampal calbindin-immunoreactive cell population.}, }
@article {pmid12288838, year = {1993}, author = {Henley, E}, title = {Norplant implants.}, journal = {The IHS primary care provider}, volume = {18}, number = {6}, pages = {117}, pmid = {12288838}, issn = {1063-4398}, mesh = {Americas ; Contraception ; Developed Countries ; *Evaluation Studies as Topic ; Family Planning Services ; *Health Planning ; *Health Services Accessibility ; New Mexico ; North America ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid8404455, year = {1993}, author = {Jyothi, K and Susheela, S and Kodali, VR and Balakrishnan, S and Seshaiah, V}, title = {Poor cognitive task performance of insulin-dependent diabetic children (6-12 years) in India.}, journal = {Diabetes research and clinical practice}, volume = {20}, number = {3}, pages = {209-213}, doi = {10.1016/0168-8227(93)90080-o}, pmid = {8404455}, issn = {0168-8227}, mesh = {Age of Onset ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; India ; Male ; Reference Values ; Sex Factors ; *Task Performance and Analysis ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Cognitive function was assessed in 22 diabetic and 39 healthy children, all in the age group of 6-12 years. Wechsler's coding, digit span test and Raven's colored progressive matrices were included in the battery of tests. The diabetic children underscored on all these tasks compared to the healthy children. The raw scores (mean +/- S.D.), of the diabetic and healthy children were: Wechsler's coding: 17.4 +/- 6.48, 37.4 +/- 9.33; digit span: 22.0 +/- 8.8, 44.1 +/- 7.67 and on Raven's A+AB+B: 16.2 +/- 3.5. 24.1 +/- 6.26; P < 0.001 in each instance, respectively. Duration of diabetes did not correlate with any of the test scores. No significant differences were noted between the early onset (IDDM starting before the age of 5 years) and late onset (IDDM starting after 5 years) diabetic children in their performance. We attribute the very low scores in our diabetic children to the psycho-social factors in addition to the metabolic control.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: (1) specific cognitive dysfunction is present in children with IDDM compared to the healthy children; (2) duration of diabetes did not correlate with cognitive function scores; (3) IDDM manifesting after the age of 5 years also had hitherto unknown detrimental effects on the cognitive process.}, }
@article {pmid8518987, year = {1993}, author = {Cashman, FE and Gilbert, R}, title = {Blue jay mania.}, journal = {Canadian journal of psychiatry. Revue canadienne de psychiatrie}, volume = {38}, number = {4}, pages = {299}, doi = {10.1177/070674379303800419}, pmid = {8518987}, issn = {0706-7437}, mesh = {Adult ; Arousal ; *Baseball ; Bipolar Disorder/*psychology ; Humans ; Male ; Social Facilitation ; }, }
@article {pmid8415191, year = {1993}, author = {Cianchetti, C and Marrosu, MG}, title = {[The analysis of nervous system functions in dysmorphic syndromes].}, journal = {La Pediatria medica e chirurgica : Medical and surgical pediatrics}, volume = {15 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {26-28}, pmid = {8415191}, issn = {0391-5387}, mesh = {Congenital Abnormalities/diagnosis/*physiopathology ; Electroencephalography ; Electrophysiology ; Humans ; Nervous System/*physiopathology ; Neurologic Examination ; Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {The involvement of the C.N.S. in dysmorphic syndromes is very frequent; therefore a systematic analysis of the functions of the nervous system is important in the clinical definition of these syndromes. Besides the morphological aspects, studied by magnetic resonance imaging, investigations should be carried out in the neuroelectrophysiological and neuropsychological fields. For the former, the following examinations are proposed: EEG in wakefulness and sleep, multimodal evoked potentials (VEP, BAEP, SEP), cortical magnetic stimulation and P300 (P3). For the neuropsychological field, a general intelligence test appropriate to the mental age of the subject (the Wechsler, Terman-Merrill, or Brunet-Lezine scale) and, whenever possible, the following complementary tests: Raven's Progressive Matrices, Bender's and Santucci's graphic tests, go-no go, Goodenough draw-a-person, reading and writing tests, Langeot's scale for development of the logical thinking, sorting test and verbal and spatial memory tests. In some cases, the behaviour should be defined, through Conner's scale for attention deficit-hyperactivity disorders, the Autism Diagnostic Interview, the Adaptive Behaviour Scale and the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale.}, }
@article {pmid8335241, year = {1993}, author = {Rautian, GS and Mironenko, EV and Anokhin, AP and Rozanov, AS and Ata-Muradova, FA}, title = {[Genetic and demographic structure of the Talysh population].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {29}, number = {5}, pages = {837-844}, pmid = {8335241}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Azerbaijan ; Birth Rate ; *Ethnicity ; Family Characteristics ; Female ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Outcome ; Reproduction ; Sex Ratio ; Transients and Migrants ; }, abstract = {Investigation was carried out in Talysh population in mountain region of South Azerbaijan. There is extended reproduction in the population. From XVIII till the beginning of XX century there were 3-3.6 offsprings in a family. In the last generation with completed reproduction, the family size raised to 7.13. Modern factors of population size dynamics are considered. It turned out that the main new factor (in conditions of increased family size) is the intensive migration from the population, mainly in men, that results in transformation of sex index in the reproductive age (ratio men/women is 0.77), and a large part of women stay unmarried. Crow index is Itot = 0.426, its components are Im = 0.115, If = 0.260.}, }
@article {pmid8319054, year = {1993}, author = {Salthouse, TA}, title = {Influence of working memory on adult age differences in matrix reasoning.}, journal = {British journal of psychology (London, England : 1953)}, volume = {84 (Pt 2)}, number = {}, pages = {171-199}, doi = {10.1111/j.2044-8295.1993.tb02472.x}, pmid = {8319054}, issn = {0007-1269}, support = {AG06826/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aging/*physiology ; Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Memory/*physiology ; *Mental Recall ; Middle Aged ; Task Performance and Analysis ; }, abstract = {The four studies reported in this article, involving a total of 401 adults ranging between 18 and 80 years of age, were designed to investigate how working memory might mediate adult age differences in matrix reasoning tasks such as the Raven's Progressive Matrices Test. Evidence of this medication is available in the finding that statistical control of an index of working memory reduces the age-related variance in matrix reasoning performance by approximately 70 per cent. Because the age differences were nearly constant across items of varying difficulty, it was concluded that the factors responsible for variation in item difficulty were distinct from those responsible for the age differences. However, young adults were found to be more accurate than older adults at recognizing information presented earlier in the matrix reasoning trial, thereby supporting the interpretation that working memory exerts its influence by contributing to the preservation of information during subsequent processing.}, }
@article {pmid8101009, year = {1993}, author = {Adames, AJ and Dutary, B and Tejera, H and Adames, E and Galindo, P}, title = {[The relationship between mosquito vectors and aquatic birds in the potential transmission of 2 arboviruses].}, journal = {Revista medica de Panama}, volume = {18}, number = {2}, pages = {106-119}, pmid = {8101009}, issn = {0379-1629}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Birds/*immunology ; Culicidae/*microbiology ; *Disease Vectors ; Encephalitis Virus, St. Louis/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Encephalitis Virus, Venezuelan Equine/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Encephalitis, St. Louis/immunology/microbiology/*transmission ; Encephalomyelitis, Venezuelan Equine/immunology/microbiology/*transmission ; Insect Vectors/*microbiology ; Nesting Behavior ; Panama ; }, abstract = {The authors studied for two years the role of the chicks of aquatic birds in the arboviral cycles in coastal lagoons in central Panama in order to determine the relation between Culex (Melanoconion) ocossa and Mansonia (Mansonia) dyari mosquitoes in the transmission and dissemination of the viruses of Saint Louis Encephalitis (SLE) and Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis (VEE). Mosquitoes were captured every fifteen days on two consecutive nights to isolate the virus, using light traps (CDC) and baited traps. The attempts to isolate the virus were made using Vero cell cultures and the determination of antibodies was performed. The results of the serologic tests seem to indicate that four bird species: the ex (?) heron (Bubulcus ibis), the American heron (Casmerodius albus), the spoon-billed duck (Cochlearius cochlearius) and the needle crow (Anhinga anhinga) could function as intermediate hosts in the transmission cycle of SLE. Two species, the ibis (Endocimus albus) and the spoon-billed duck (Cochlearius cochlearius) could also be intermediate hosts of VEE in the coastal lagoons of Panama. The presence of antibodies in chicks could indicate an infection acquired recently, after their birth, in this area. The VEE virus was recovered from blood filled mosquitoes which had fed on a spoon-billed duck probably infected and exposed in a Trinidad #10 trap. No SLE virus was isolated. Other unknown viruses were isolated from mosquitoes selected for these studies, such as C. ocossa and M. dyari. The results obtained with these studies indicate the need for more studies utilizing new field techniques in order to establish a link between SLE and VEE, the vector mosquitoes and the aquatic birds in the coastal lagoons of the area under investigation.}, }
@article {pmid8516192, year = {1993}, author = {McDermott, S and Cokert, AL and McKeown, RE}, title = {Low birthweight and risk of mild mental retardation by ages 5 and 9 to 11.}, journal = {Paediatric and perinatal epidemiology}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {195-204}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-3016.1993.tb00393.x}, pmid = {8516192}, issn = {0269-5022}, mesh = {Child ; Child, Preschool ; Cohort Studies ; Humans ; *Infant, Low Birth Weight ; Infant, Newborn ; Intellectual Disability/*epidemiology/ethnology ; Logistic Models ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {This prospective analysis assessed the risk of mild mental retardation (MMR) associated with low birthweight (LBW) in the Child Health and Development Studies. Scores of 50-70 on the Raven Progressive Matrices, a relatively culture-free test of cognitive functioning, were used to categorize MMR. At the age of 5, 13.8% of the 195 children with birthweights less than 2500 g (LBW) were MMR, whilst 4.2% of the 2293 children with normal birthweights (> 2955 grams) were MMR. After adjusting for confounders (maternal age, race, education, prenatal alcohol use, maternal conditions, and congenital anomalies), the relative risk of MMR for LBW was 3.4 (95% CI 1.2-5.4). For children aged 9-11, 7.7% of 194 LBW children were MMR, compared with 6.2% of the 2546 with normal birthweights; the adjusted relative risk for LBW was 1.2 (95% CI 0.7-2.0). Although a strong association between LBW and MMR was observed for both blacks and non-blacks at the age of 5, the association between birthweight and MMR was apparent only for blacks in the cohort of children aged 9-11. These findings suggest that race, a marker for environmental factors which were not measured in this study, may modify the LBW and MMR relationship.}, }
@article {pmid8501895, year = {1993}, author = {Klaasen, HL and Koopman, JP and Van den Brink, ME and Bakker, MH and Poelma, FG and Beynen, AC}, title = {Intestinal, segmented, filamentous bacteria in a wide range of vertebrate species.}, journal = {Laboratory animals}, volume = {27}, number = {2}, pages = {141-150}, doi = {10.1258/002367793780810441}, pmid = {8501895}, issn = {0023-6772}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Animals ; Animals, Laboratory/*microbiology ; Bacteria/*isolation &amp; purification/ultrastructure ; Cats ; Cricetinae ; Dogs ; Female ; Guinea Pigs ; Humans ; Intestines/*microbiology ; Male ; Mice ; Middle Aged ; Rabbits ; Rats ; }, abstract = {Segmented, filamentous bacteria (SFBs) form a group of bacteria with similar morphology and are identified on the basis of their morphology only. The relationships of these organisms are unclear as the application of formal taxonomic criteria is impossible currently due to the lack of an in vitro technique to culture SFBs. The intestine of laboratory animals such as mice, rats, chickens, dogs, cats and pigs is known to harbour SFBs. To see whether this extends to other animal species, intestines from 18 vertebrate species, including man, were examined. SFBs were detected with light microscopy in the cat, dog, rhesus monkey, crab-eating macaque, domestic fowl, South African claw-footed toad, carp, man, laboratory mouse and rat, wood mouse, jackdaw and magpie. These results suggest that non-pathogenic SFBs are ubiquitous in the animal kingdom. Among apparently identical animals, there was considerable variation in the degree of SFB colonization. It is suggested that SFB colonization could serve as a criterion of standardization of laboratory animals.}, }
@article {pmid8489697, year = {1993}, author = {Dechamp, C}, title = {Comparison of gramineae and ragweed pollen counts measured by Hirst's and Cour's traps.}, journal = {Allergie et immunologie}, volume = {25}, number = {4}, pages = {154-158}, pmid = {8489697}, issn = {0397-9148}, mesh = {Air ; Environmental Monitoring/*instrumentation ; Poaceae ; *Pollen ; Seasons ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study is to appreciate what conclusions may be drawn from the comparison between two different methods for pollen count determination in clinical allergology. In Lyon (France), two pollen collectors are set up in two places separated by ten kilometers, as the crow flies. The Hirst-type trap is on the roof of the Pasteur Institute in the town; the Cour's trap (French Association for Ragweed Study), is located at the meteorological station in the country at the east of the town. In the Rhône-Alpes region, pollinosis is essentially due to Poacae and Ambrosia elatior. The weekly data have been recorded during three years. The results of the two categories of herbaceous plants are not comparable, except as regards the date at which the pollen season commenced. Graminae pollination (GP) commences between 20th April and 6th of May. Ragweed pollination (RP) accurately commences 5th and 6th of August! Differences in the fluctuations of peak concentrations of GP from one trap to the other can be imputed to the collectors, the site where these are located, the method used to process the data, the herbaceous weeds themselves. RPC (the dates of the peaks) are closer and more coherent. Lastly, in allergological practice, the Jacques Dechamp's rule, to only emply with the A.F.E.D.A. trap, is a hardy aid used to predict the week of the all-important peak pollen concentrations of G and R.}, }
@article {pmid8485939, year = {1993}, author = {Connell, BF and Marten, TJ}, title = {Surgical correction of the crow's feet deformity.}, journal = {Clinics in plastic surgery}, volume = {20}, number = {2}, pages = {295-302}, pmid = {8485939}, issn = {0094-1298}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Oculomotor Muscles ; Postoperative Care ; Postoperative Complications/etiology ; Preoperative Care ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods/standards ; *Skin Aging ; Surgical Flaps/methods/standards ; }, abstract = {Improved methods and important adjuncts for rejuvenation of the aging face have evolved as surgeons have recognized the limitations of the techniques they employ. Presented here is a simple, safe, and straightforward technique for correction of the "crow's feet" deformity that has proven to produce a predictable and long-lasting improvement.}, }
@article {pmid8472769, year = {1993}, author = {Riordan, T and Humphrey, TJ and Fowles, A}, title = {A point source outbreak of campylobacter infection related to bird-pecked milk.}, journal = {Epidemiology and infection}, volume = {110}, number = {2}, pages = {261-265}, pmid = {8472769}, issn = {0950-2688}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*microbiology ; Campylobacter Infections/*epidemiology/*microbiology ; *Campylobacter jejuni/isolation &amp; purification ; Child Day Care Centers ; Child, Preschool ; *Disease Outbreaks ; England/epidemiology ; *Food Microbiology ; Humans ; Milk/*microbiology ; Zoonoses ; }, abstract = {A point source outbreak of Campylobacter jejuni affected 11 children in a day nursery. Milk consumed by the children was known to have been pecked by magpies on occasions. Illness was significantly associated with consumption of milk on a single morning. Examination of milk from a bottle pecked after the outbreak yielded campylobacters. The level of contamination was approximately six cells of C. jejuni per 500 ml of milk.}, }
@article {pmid8370204, year = {1993}, author = {Watanabe, M and Ushiyama, O and Matsui, M and Kakigi, R and Kuroda, Y}, title = {[A case of Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with chronic pachymeningitis].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {33}, number = {4}, pages = {422-426}, pmid = {8370204}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Adult ; Chronic Disease ; Dura Mater/*pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Intracranial Pressure ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Meningitis/*complications ; POEMS Syndrome/*etiology ; }, abstract = {A 34-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital in 1991, because of progressive headache, nausea and generalized edema. She was diagnosed as Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with plasma cell dyscrasia (IgA lambda type) in 1987, presenting with polyneuropathy, edema, and dermatologic changes. Those manifestations were improved with irradiation and corticosteroids, but headache, nausea and generalized edema gradually developed after the discontinuation of corticosteroid therapy in 1991. On admission, marked bilateral papilledema was noted but fever and meningeal irritation signs were absent. A spinal tap showed a clear cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) with an open pressure of more than 400 mmH2O, normal cell count, total protein level of 87 mg/dl, and IgG level of 12.3 mg/dl. The CSF culture for microorganisms was negative and the cytological study of CSF also was normal. De novo synthesis rate of CSF IgG was markedly elevated (35.3 mg/day). MRI of the head using Gd-DTPA revealed diffuse hypertrophic dura mater, which made the diagnosis of chronic pachymeningitis. Cerebral angiographies were normal. An RI cisternography demonstrated delayed absorption of the CSF without ventricular reflux. Gallium and bone scintigrams did not show any pathological accumulation of the isotopes in the head. The lack of abnormalities causing chronic pachymeningitis in this case suggests that the chronic pachymeningitis might be associated with Crow-Fukase syndrome. The development of increased intracranial pressure is not rare in Crow-Fukase syndrome but the etiology remained unknown in most cases. We therefore suggest that MRI study with contrast enhancement should be performed in cases of this condition with increased intracranial pressure.}, }
@article {pmid8486273, year = {1993}, author = {Atramentova, LA and Fedchun, LI and Povolotskiĭ, SA}, title = {[Differential fertility in the Kharkhov population].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {29}, number = {3}, pages = {520-530}, pmid = {8486273}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cohort Studies ; Female ; Fertility/*genetics ; Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Pregnancy ; Ukraine ; }, abstract = {The distribution of the number of pregnancies, births and abortions in the Kharkov population was analysed in the cohort of women with the completed fertility. The mean number of pregnancies per woman was 3.77 for the first generation and 4.30 for the second generation. The mean number of births in the first and second generations was 1.47 and 1.35. The Crow's Index of the opportunity for selection and its components connected with differential mortality was estimated. The value of the Crow's Index was decreased during one generation from 0.56 to 0.35. In the women of the second generations having high and secondary education, the number of pregnancies was 3.72 and 4.38, respectively, the Crow's Indexes being 0.33 and 0.35.}, }
@article {pmid8456338, year = {1993}, author = {Harrison, A}, title = {Comparing nurses' and patients' pain evaluations: a study of hospitalized patients in Kuwait.}, journal = {Social science &amp; medicine (1982)}, volume = {36}, number = {5}, pages = {683-692}, doi = {10.1016/0277-9536(93)90065-c}, pmid = {8456338}, issn = {0277-9536}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; Inpatients/psychology ; Kuwait ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Nurses/psychology ; Nursing Assessment ; Pain/*diagnosis/psychology ; Pain Management ; *Pain Measurement ; }, abstract = {All eligible patients hospitalized on the general medical, surgical and pediatric wards of a district hospital in Kuwait during the first 2 weeks of April 1990 (N = 199) were interviewed about their pain and the medical care provided. Patients rated their current pain using a 0-10 visual analogue scale (VAS) on which 0 was labelled 'no pain' and 10 'unbearable pain', and also the least and worst levels of pain which they had experienced during the previous 24 hr. Pediatric patients rated their mood at these times using a cartoon faces scale ([1]: McGrath P.A., DeVeber L. L. and Hearn M. T. Advances in Pain Research and Therapy, pp. 387-393. Raven Press, New York, 1985). Patients were asked to describe the most painful procedure which they had experienced whilst hospitalized, to detail their reactions to any uncontrolled pain, and recount the outcome of any requests made for additional analgesics. Whichever nurse on duty had had prime responsibility for caring for the patient was asked to furnish comparable VAS ratings of the patient's pain, and to categorize the patient as providing an accurate picture of, exaggerating, or understating his/her pain. Overall, nurses returned significantly lower pain estimates than their patients. Pediatric patients and patients described by their nurses as 'understating their pain', however, were exceptions. The vast majority of patients approved of the medical care provided and the pain management, and considered that nurses are well able to judge patients' pain and are concerned about what pain patients experience. And yet the VAS reports from patients indicated that uncontrolled pain was common. Also, when specifically questioned, a substantial proportion of patients stated that pain had had a negative impact on their mood and activity. Various explanations for these findings are discussed, and their implications for effective pain management. Some of the special problems facing nurses in Kuwait are considered.}, }
@article {pmid8275896, year = {1993}, author = {Dollfus, S and Petit, M}, title = {[J. Delay hypothymic disorder. Current aspects and pertinence of the concept in schizophrenic states].}, journal = {L'Encephale}, volume = {19}, number = {2}, pages = {109-115}, pmid = {8275896}, issn = {0013-7006}, mesh = {Depressive Disorder/*diagnosis/psychology ; Humans ; Mood Disorders/*diagnosis/psychology ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Schizophrenia/*diagnosis ; Schizophrenia, Paranoid/diagnosis/psychology ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; }, abstract = {In the first part, the authors re-examined the concept of "hypothymie" described by J. Delay in 1946. "Hypothymie" is characterized by a mood disorder and particularly by an absence of mood and it is a fundamental syndrome of hebephrenia. From this syndrome "hypothymie", others signs will appear such as schizophrenic symptoms (characterized by attention disorder and formal thought disorder), paranoid symptoms or catatonic ones. Several authors, like J. Delay, had emphasized the importance of the mood disorder (an absence) in this pathology. It is the case of Kretschmer, Dide and Guiraud (who evoked the "athymhormie"), Bleuler, Kraepelin and also Stransky, Griesinger and at the beginning of the XIXth century, Haslam in England and Pinel in France. In the present time, "hypothymie" is related to some current concepts, especially the deficit forms of schizophrenia described by Carpenter and the schizophrenia type II defined by Crow. In the second part, the relationships between paranoid symptoms, depression and "hypothymie" were studied. The authors stressed the fact that there is an overlap between depressive and paranoid symptoms at the acute phase. They gave an illustration including 51 patients in an acute phase and in a stabilized one. In the acute phase, there was a negative correlation between positive symptoms and depressive symptoms in particular between conceptual disorganization, suspiciousness/persecution, positive formal thought disorder and depression (r = -0.65, p < 0.01; r = -0.57, p < 0.01; r = -0.66, p < 0.01 respectively). These correlations disappeared at discharge of the hospital and did not exist in the stabilized group.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid8466658, year = {1993}, author = {Healy, SD and Krebs, JR}, title = {Development of hippocampal specialisation in a food-storing bird.}, journal = {Behavioural brain research}, volume = {53}, number = {1-2}, pages = {127-131}, doi = {10.1016/s0166-4328(05)80272-4}, pmid = {8466658}, issn = {0166-4328}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Hippocampus/anatomy &amp; histology/cytology/*growth &amp; development ; Neurons/physiology ; Species Specificity ; Telencephalon/anatomy &amp; histology/growth &amp; development/physiology ; }, abstract = {Previous studies demonstrated that amongst food-storing passerine birds the hippocampal region (dorso-medial cortex) is enlarged relative to the rest of the telencephalon. It has been hypothesised that this hippocampal specialisation is related to the spatial memory requirements of retrieving large numbers of stored items. Here we compare the development of the hippocampus in a food-storing and a non-storing corvid, the adults of which differ in relative hippocampal volume. The volume, cell density and number of cells in the hippocampal region of nestling (5-25 days post hatching) and adult (> 320 days old) magpies Pica pica (food-storing) and jackdaws Corvus monedula (non-storing) were measured. In both species the volume of the hippocampus increases with the volume of the rest of the telencephalon during the nestling growth phase. The relative volume of the hippocampus in 5- to 25-day-old nestlings of the two species does not differ significantly. In the food-storing magpie, the relative volume of the adult hippocampus is significantly larger than that of nestlings, whilst in the jackdaw, adults and nestlings do not differ. The density of neurons declines with increasing age and this effect is more marked in jackdaws than in magpies. Neuron number did not change significantly with age, but is significantly greater in adult magpies than in adult jackdaws. These results are discussed in relation to the possibility that changes in hippocampal volume and cell number are related to the use of spatial memory in retrieving stored food.}, }
@article {pmid8501311, year = {1993}, author = {Sabhesan, S and Natarajan, M}, title = {Long-term outcome following head injury.}, journal = {Journal of the Indian Medical Association}, volume = {91}, number = {2}, pages = {37-39}, pmid = {8501311}, issn = {0019-5847}, mesh = {Craniocerebral Trauma/*complications/epidemiology ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; India/epidemiology ; Mental Disorders/epidemiology/*etiology ; Nervous System Diseases/epidemiology/*etiology ; Prospective Studies ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {In a perspective study of follow-up of 141 head-injured patients, neurological, behavioural, neuropsychological and psychosocial parameters of outcome were used to measure the patient's functional status for 18 months. Neurophysical sequelae including seizure disorders were seen in 29 patients. Cortical functional disturbances observed were nominal difficulties in 5 patients, perseveration in 5 patients, disturbed kinetic melodies in 9 patients, frontal acalculia in 4 patients, constructional apraxia in one patient and left side neglect in one patient. These deficits were reversed except in 13 cases. Only 32 patients (22.7%) did not suffer from any behavioural changes. The role of compensation as an aetiologic factor was found in 5 patients. Out of 94 patients in whom scores in memory test was done, 11 patients performed better than their age and education-related norms. Scores in Raven's matrices for level of intellectual performance were done in 71 patients. The score was below 25th percentile in majority (58 cases). Among 130 patients with some jobs, 56 patients (43%) were fully restored. Out of 105 married patients, 45 patients (43%) had disturbed relations after head injury. Seven patients had separation of marriage. Compared to neurological deficits, behavioural and neuropsychological impairments were more prevalent and disabling. Psychosocial outcome, particularly vocational restoration was adversely affected by behavioural changes and cognitive deficits. Need for a multidisciplinary intervention to minimise the avoidable morbidity is emphasised.}, }
@article {pmid8467276, year = {1993}, author = {Cockburn, J and Smith, PT}, title = {Correlates of everyday memory among residents of Part III homes.}, journal = {The British journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {32}, number = {1}, pages = {75-77}, doi = {10.1111/j.2044-8260.1993.tb01029.x}, pmid = {8467276}, issn = {0144-6657}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Aged ; *Homes for the Aged ; Humans ; Intelligence ; *Memory ; Self Care ; Social Behavior ; }, abstract = {Performance on the Rivermead Behavioural Memory Test (RBMT) of 43 residents of Part III homes was compared with performance on Raven's Coloured Progressive matrices and the National Adult Reading Test (NART). Health, medication, selfcare and social activity were also measured. Results show that although Raven's score was the best predictor of memory test performance, it had a high refusal rate. Age was not a significant predictor of overall memory test score but results were complicated by age of entry into Part III, with older people performing better on some items. Medication, in particular drugs acting on the central nervous system, enhanced performance on some items.}, }
@article {pmid8364686, year = {1993}, author = {Ewart, KV and Fletcher, GL}, title = {Herring antifreeze protein: primary structure and evidence for a C-type lectin evolutionary origin.}, journal = {Molecular marine biology and biotechnology}, volume = {2}, number = {1}, pages = {20-27}, pmid = {8364686}, issn = {1053-6426}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Antifreeze Proteins ; Base Sequence ; DNA/chemistry/isolation &amp; purification ; Fishes/classification/*genetics ; Freezing ; Gene Library ; Glycoproteins/chemistry/*genetics ; Lectins/chemistry/*genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Phylogeny ; Protein Precursors/chemistry/*genetics ; Sequence Alignment ; Sequence Homology, Amino Acid ; }, abstract = {A complementary DNA (cDNA) for a type II antifreeze protein (AFP) was isolated from an Atlantic herring liver cDNA library and sequenced. The predicted protein sequence is homologous to those of the type II fish AFP from smelt and sea raven; it is also homologous to the carbohydrate recognition domains (CRD) of calcium-dependent (C-type) lectins and similar domains in lectin-like proteins. Herring belong to the infradivision Clupeomorpha, which is distinct from the Euteleostei to which all other AFP-producing fish belong. The occurrence of type II AFP in widely divergent fish groups and their homology to C-type lectin CRDs suggest that type II AFPs evolved from these lectins. Amino acid residues forming the hydrophobic cores of rat mannose-binding protein A (MBP-A) that are conserved in character among C-type lectins are also conserved in the herring AFP. The herring AFP also requires Ca2+ for thermal hysteresis activity. These results suggest that herring AFP is structurally and functionally similar to the CRDs of C-type lectins and related domains in other proteins.}, }
@article {pmid8447247, year = {1993}, author = {Stanovich, KE}, title = {Does reading make you smarter? Literacy and the development of verbal intelligence.}, journal = {Advances in child development and behavior}, volume = {24}, number = {}, pages = {133-180}, doi = {10.1016/s0065-2407(08)60302-x}, pmid = {8447247}, issn = {0065-2407}, mesh = {Child ; *Child Development ; Educational Status ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Mental Recall ; *Reading ; *Verbal Learning ; Vocabulary ; }, abstract = {The studies reported here represent the first steps in the development of a new research paradigm for studying the unique cognitive correlates of literacy. Reading experience exhibits enough isolable variance within a generally literate society to be reliably linked with cognitive differences. Research on such links is therefore facilitated because the consequences of engaging in literacy activities can be studied without necessarily obtaining totally illiterate samples or setting up cross-cultural comparisons. Issues that are at least analogous issues to those raised in cross-cultural research can be studied within literate societies with a paradigm such as this, and therefore the speed with which we can answer questions about the cognitive consequences of literacy may be greatly increased because more studies can be carried out, larger samples can be studied, and the range of the cognitive domains tapped can be widened. Research in this area appears to have been stifled because of the widespread acceptance of the most extreme interpretations of the outcome of Scribner and Cole's (1981) investigation--interpretations that have slowly diffused throughout the literature without being accompanied by any new data. These conclusions are fueled by a powerful social critique that advances the argument that the positive cultural and economic effects of literacy have been overstated--indeed, that literacy is, if anything, a repressive force (Auerbach, 1992; Street, 1984, 1988; Stuckey, 1991). Educational theorists such as Frank Smith accused the educational establishment of "overselling" literacy and have argued that "Literacy doesn't generate finer feelings or higher values. It doesn't even make anyone smarter" (1989, p. 354). The data reported herein appear to indicate that these theorists could well be wrong in this conclusion. If "smarter" means having a larger vocabulary and more world knowledge in addition to the abstract reasoning skills encompassed within the concept of intelligence, as it does in most laymen's definitions of intelligence (Stanovich, 1989; Sternberg, 1990), then reading may well make people smarter. Certainly our data demonstrate time and again that print exposure is associated with vocabulary, general knowledge, and verbal skills even after controlling for abstract reasoning abilities (as measured by such indicators as the Raven).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid8439391, year = {1993}, author = {Helscher, RJ and Pinter, MM}, title = {Speed and power of higher cerebral functions in parkinsonian patients.}, journal = {Journal of neural transmission. Parkinson's disease and dementia section}, volume = {5}, number = {1}, pages = {35-44}, doi = {10.1007/BF02260913}, pmid = {8439391}, issn = {0936-3076}, mesh = {Arousal/physiology ; Cognition/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Levodopa/therapeutic use ; Male ; Mental Processes/*physiology ; Middle Aged ; Parkinson Disease/drug therapy/*psychology ; Perception/physiology ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; }, abstract = {We compared 21 idiopathic, pharmaceutically well managed parkinsonian patients, neurological stages I and II on the Hoehn and Yahr scale with 21 parkinsonian patients stage III and 19 healthy controls group-matched for age, sex and education to study to what extent impairments of fluid intelligence in parkinsonian patients are due to a slowing of cognitive processes, i.e. to bradyphrenia (a deficit in the speed component) or to a true performance deficit (a deficit in the power component). The Vienna Matrices Test, which is similar to Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices was presented to the patients in a modified form. The Cognitrone was used to measure the influence of vigilance and perception on the cerebral function assessed. With increasing neurological severity of the disease, the dimension examined showed true deficits in the power component. There was no bradyphrenia in the sense of slower performance which would otherwise be equal to that of the control subjects. Vigilance and perception did not change in the course of the disease.}, }
@article {pmid8430525, year = {1993}, author = {Camirand, A}, title = {Treatment of dynamic crow's feet while performing a blepharoplasty.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {17}, number = {1}, pages = {17-21}, pmid = {8430525}, issn = {0364-216X}, mesh = {Blepharoptosis/*surgery ; Classification ; *Eye ; *Facial Muscles ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods/standards ; Severity of Illness Index ; Skin Aging/*pathology ; Treatment Outcome ; }, abstract = {A classification of crow's feet and its pathophysiology are discussed. The author demonstrates a technique of removing a portion of the overactive orbicularis muscle, the underlying cause of crow's feet, while performing the blepharoplasty. The procedure is effective, safe, and simple.}, }
@article {pmid8422789, year = {1993}, author = {Acton, K and Rogers, B and Campbell, G and Johnson, C and Gohdes, D}, title = {Prevalence of diagnosed diabetes and selected related conditions of six reservations in Montana and Wyoming.}, journal = {Diabetes care}, volume = {16}, number = {1}, pages = {263-265}, doi = {10.2337/diacare.16.1.263}, pmid = {8422789}, issn = {0149-5992}, mesh = {Amputation, Surgical ; Diabetes Complications ; Diabetes Mellitus/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Diabetic Nephropathies/complications ; Humans ; Hypertension/complications ; *Indians, North American ; Kidney Failure, Chronic/epidemiology ; Medical Records ; Montana/epidemiology ; Myocardial Infarction/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; Wyoming/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To describe the prevalence of diabetes and related complications in Plains Indians.<br><br>RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: The medical records of individuals with diagnosed diabetes seen in IHS facilities before 1 January 1987 were reviewed. Records were obtained from primary care clinics and hospitals accessible to the following six reservation communities in Montana and Wyoming: Blackfeet, Crow, Fort Belknap, Fort Peck, Northern Cheyenne, and Wind River. Medical records were reviewed to ascertain accuracy of diagnosis and associated complications.<br><br>RESULTS: Age-adjusted prevalence rate of diagnosed diabetes was 119/1000 adults > or = 15 yr of age.<br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Diabetes rates in Plains Indians are higher than rates described for the general U.S. population.}, }
@article {pmid8346617, year = {1993}, author = {Hejlícek, K and Treml, F}, title = {[The occurrence of avian mycobacteriosis in wild birds during various epizootic conditions of tuberculosis in poultry].}, journal = {Veterinarni medicina}, volume = {38}, number = {5}, pages = {305-317}, pmid = {8346617}, issn = {0375-8427}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Czechoslovakia ; Disease Outbreaks/*veterinary ; Poultry ; Poultry Diseases/*epidemiology ; Tuberculosis, Avian/*epidemiology ; }, abstract = {The occurrence of tuberculosis in free-living birds was studied in relation to a certain epidemiological situation in a long-term study from 1966 to 1990. A total of 3210 birds were examined. Mycobacteria were isolated in five cases from free-living birds in the environment of six poultry rearing farms where tuberculosis was found in domestic fowl. At individual localities, the occurrence of mycobacteria was 3.5-50.0%. Generalized tuberculosis was found in one case in house sparrow (Passer domesticus). On the investigated poultry rearing farms, the distribution of tuberculosis infection in free-living birds was directly related to the distribution and stage of tuberculosis in poultry or to the achieved extent of eradication. On a poultry rearing farm where no mycobacteria were isolated from free-living birds, a successful eradication of tuberculosis by flock exchange was in progress. During the examination of free-living birds on three farms, mycobacteria were found at two localities where poultry infected with tuberculosis was kept either on the farm or in its immediate vicinity. On the third farm, where no mycobacteria were found in free-living birds, only sporadic reactors to tuberculin were found during survey in spatially separated flocks. No mycobacteria were isolated from birds examined on two farms in whose vicinity poultry was not reared at all. Similarly, bacteriological cultures were negative in a group of 298 birds examined during five years in the environment of a poultry enterprise farm free from tuberculosis. No mycobacteria were found in a large group of 2303 free-living birds taken in the wild except four rooks (Corvus frugilegus). However, this is a migratory species which is noted for its considerable longevity. It is thus more probable that these birds were infected outside the locality which the specimens were taken from. Out of the isolated strains of mycobacteria that were further examined by a biological experiment, 86.6% were pathogenic to domestic fowl, serotype M. avium 2. The results of these examinations suggest that the presence of tuberculosis-infected poultry as a major source of M. avium is necessary for the infection of free-living birds. The infectious agent apparently does not persist and spread within the flocks of free-living birds.}, }
@article {pmid8334776, year = {1993}, author = {Furuzono, H and Moritoyo, T and Yamada, H and Sugihara, R and Nagamatsu, K}, title = {[A case of Crow-Fukase syndrome which developed seven years following myelopathy of unknown origin].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {33}, number = {1}, pages = {56-60}, pmid = {8334776}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications ; Spinal Cord Diseases/diagnosis/*etiology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {A rare case of Crow-Fukase syndrome was reported, which developed 7 years following myelopathy of unknown origin. In September 1983, a 31-year-old man came to our department for progressive gait disturbance and numbness in both lower extremities. Examination on admission showed hyperreflexia with clonus and moderated muscle weakness of legs, and paresthesia below Th9 level, but myelography and CT indicated no abnormality. Thereafter, he was doing as well as walkable with a cane, but in 1989 he developed hypertrichosis, skin pigmentation, leg edema and gynecomastia with aggravation of numbness of lower extremity and was rehospitalized in October. Detailed examination on the present admission indicated compression of the conus medullaris due to an osteosclerotic lesion of vertebral body L1, which did not correspond to the possible site of pyramidal sign. Thus, the origin of the myelopathy remained unknown. After hospitalization, polyneuropathy newly developed, making him confined to his bed. Thus, the diagnosis was established as Crow-Fukase syndrome. Subtotal extirpation of L1 vertebral body and steroid therapy (PSL 10 mg/day) caused improvements of polyneuropathy and numbness of lower extremity, making him walkable again and return to his social work 3 months later. Pathohistological examination of the osteosclerotic lesion proved partial plasmacytoma. In MRI findings of the osteosclerotic lesion, the osteosclerotic and plasmacytomatous regions were outlined as low and high signals, respectively for both T1 and T2-weighted. MRI examination was very useful for grasping the tumorous extent within the osteosclerotic lesion as observed with Crow-Fukase syndrome and for determining the extent of indication for surgery and radiotherapy.}, }
@article {pmid8243509, year = {1993}, author = {Botez-Marquard, T and Botez, MI}, title = {Cognitive behavior in heredodegenerative ataxias.}, journal = {European neurology}, volume = {33}, number = {5}, pages = {351-357}, doi = {10.1159/000116970}, pmid = {8243509}, issn = {0014-3022}, mesh = {Adult ; Cerebellum/physiopathology ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology/physiopathology ; Female ; Friedreich Ataxia/*psychology ; Functional Laterality ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Olivopontocerebellar Atrophies/*psychology ; Reaction Time ; }, abstract = {Fifteen patients with Friedreich's ataxia (FA) and 15 others with olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OPCA) were evaluated with a comprehensive neuropsychological battery of tests. They were pair-matched with normal controls for age, sex and education. Depressed patients were excluded from the study as were those with extrapyramidal signs. The following results were obtained: (1) the Raven test, untimed block design performance in OPCA and quantitative analysis of Rey figure drawing revealed a visuospatial deficit suggestive of a mild parietal-like syndrome; signs of mild frontal-like syndrome were also found; (2) cognition was slowed in the FA group; (3) simple visual and auditory reaction times were increased in both patient groups. It appears that the cerebellum may interfere indirectly with cognition through various physiological and neurochemical 2-way cerebellocortical loops. Finally, the cerebellum seems to interfere directly also with basic speed of information processing.}, }
@article {pmid8242187, year = {1993}, author = {Arenas, NM}, title = {[An alternative methodology for the teaching of anatomy in nursing studies at the University of Carabobo].}, journal = {Revista latino-americana de enfermagem}, volume = {1}, number = {1}, pages = {73-83}, pmid = {8242187}, issn = {0104-1169}, mesh = {Anatomy/*education ; Education, Nursing/*methods/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Humans ; Teaching/*methods/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Universities ; Venezuela ; }, abstract = {An alternative methodology for the teaching of Human Anatomy which contributes to improve academic yield by Nursing students at the Faculty of Health Sciences of the University of Carabobo is presented. A total of 50 first-year Nursing students who participated in the experiment were divided into 2 groups, control and experimental. This research project was of the almost-experimental type and the work methodology was experimental-evaluation. Three instruments were used to obtain data: an investigation of the Lickert school type consisting of 40 proposals related to the students attitude concerning the study of this discipline and in view of a teaching methodology (EAEAM), accompanied by the school of Interests of Thurstone and by the Psychometric Test of Raven, to determine relationships in accordance with the research objectives. In function of the empirical results of the experiment and of revision of the literature pertaining to this theme, a methodological proposal is presented for the teaching of Human Anatomy; its theoretical-practical nature demands: previous study, observation, discussion and, fundamentally, subdivision, as an alternative to improve academic yield by Nursing students.}, }
@article {pmid8235454, year = {1993}, author = {Butler, LD and Stieglitz, TL}, title = {Contagion in schizophrenia: a critique of Crow and Done (1986).}, journal = {Schizophrenia bulletin}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {449-54; discussion 455-9}, doi = {10.1093/schbul/19.3.449}, pmid = {8235454}, issn = {0586-7614}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease ; Humans ; Male ; Neurocognitive Disorders/genetics/*microbiology ; Risk Factors ; Schizophrenia/genetics/*microbiology ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Virus Diseases/complications/psychology/*transmission ; }, abstract = {This article discusses the literature on the possible role of viruses in the development of schizophrenia and outlines the evidence that compelled Crow and Done (1986) to reject a horizontal contagion hypothesis (e.g., sibling to sibling transmission). We posit a genetically determined age after which one becomes vulnerable to the illness, rather than a strict age of onset. We also propose an environmentally determined range of resistance to this susceptibility as an alternative conceptualization of the role of inheritance and of viral exposure in the etiology of the disease. The predictions derived from our new model fit the findings of Crow and Done and are consistent with the older literature of possible viral factors, thus reaffirming the horizontal contagion hypothesis.}, }
@article {pmid8235210, year = {1993}, author = {Deruaz, JP and Assal, G and Peter-Favre, C}, title = {[A clinicopathological case of progressive aphasia].}, journal = {Revue neurologique}, volume = {149}, number = {3}, pages = {186-191}, pmid = {8235210}, issn = {0035-3787}, mesh = {Aphasia/etiology/*pathology ; Atrophy ; Cerebral Cortex/*pathology ; Dementia/diagnosis ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Female ; Gliosis/pathology ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; }, abstract = {We report the case of a 59-year old right-handed woman presenting with progressive aphasia without any other neurological deficit and characterized by anomia, agramatism and auditory comprehension difficulties. CT scan showed no abnormalities. Four years later, aphasia was complete but neurological examination was normal. CT scan disclosed a mild cortico-subcortical cerebral atrophy with slight widening of both sylvian fissures. The results obtained with the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test and the Raven's Matrices showed only minor deficits. The IQ (WAIS) was 90. During the following 6 years the patient remained fully self-sufficient and carried out her homework normally. At that time MRI showed progression of cerebral atrophy more pronounced on the left side. Besides a rapid deterioration, twelve months later she developed severe dementia and died 13 years after the onset of the illness. Brain examination disclosed a severe atrophy (brain weight: 880 g) prominent in both frontal lobes and in the anterior perisylvian structures, more pronounced on the left side. There were no vascular lesions. Microscopy revealed widespread neuronal loss and astrocytic fibrillary gliosis confined to cortical areas and vacuolation in the superficial layers. Neurofibrillary tangles and neuritic plaques were found in the most atrophic areas but not in sufficient number to fulfill the histological criteria for Alzheimer's disease. There were no neuropathological changes of Pick's disease or subcortical degeneration. Previous microscopical studies of primary progressive aphasia showed non specific, mostly lobar atrophy similar to that observed in our case, although Alzheimer, Pick and Creutzfeldt-Jakob diseases have been reported. This neuropathological heterogeneity confirms that progressive aphasia is a non-specific language disorder mostly observed in lobar forms of brain degeneration.}, }
@article {pmid8120349, year = {1993}, author = {Bonnyman, G}, title = {Unmasking Jim Crow.}, journal = {Journal of health politics, policy and law}, volume = {18}, number = {4}, pages = {871-879}, doi = {10.1215/03616878-18-4-871}, pmid = {8120349}, issn = {0361-6878}, mesh = {*Black or African American ; *Civil Rights ; Health Care Reform/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Health Services Accessibility/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Insurance, Health ; Medicaid/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Prejudice ; *Race Relations ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid8063505, year = {1993}, author = {Sandyk, R}, title = {Aggressive behavior in schizophrenia: relationship to age of onset and cortical atrophy.}, journal = {The International journal of neuroscience}, volume = {68}, number = {1-2}, pages = {1-10}, doi = {10.3109/00207459308994254}, pmid = {8063505}, issn = {0020-7454}, mesh = {Adult ; Age of Onset ; Aggression/*psychology ; Atrophy/pathology ; Cerebral Cortex/*pathology ; Female ; Functional Laterality ; Hospitalization ; Hospitals, Psychiatric ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Schizophrenia/*diagnosis/pathology ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Serotonin/metabolism ; Suicide/psychology ; }, abstract = {Aggressive behavior is a common feature of schizophrenia and is associated with the presence of 'soft' neurological signs. Since early age of onset of schizophrenia has been found to be associated with the negative syndrome, which according to Crow (1982) is related to structural brain abnormalities, I predicted that early age of onset may be a biological risk factor for aggressive behavior in the disease. To test this hypothesis, I investigated in 52 chronic institutionalized schizophrenic patients (mean age = 32.8 years; SD = 8.0), the association between age of onset of the disease and the severity of belligerent behavior. The age of onset was judged from the patient's histories as the age at which florid symptoms first emerged. Patients with early onset schizophrenia had a significantly higher belligerent score compared to those with later-onset schizophrenia (p < .05). These findings support the hypothesis of an association between early age of onset of schizophrenia and the risk of aggressive behavior and suggest, furthermore, that schizophrenic symptoms which emerge early may predict a higher risk of aggressive behavior. Furthermore, this study suggest that the neurochemical mechanisms which underlie the early emergence of symptoms may also predispose to aggressive behavior in schizophrenia. Specifically, since aggressive behavior has been linked to impairment of serotonergic (5-HT) functions, I propose that the timing of onset of schizophrenia may be partly associated with dysregulation of the 5-HT system. In a second study, I investigated whether schizophrenic patients with aggressive (suicide) behavior are characterized by more extensive brain damage and hence greater degree of cerebral atrophy on CT scan. The study, which involved 26 schizophrenic patients (mean age: 31.3 years; SD = 6.8), revealed that patients with aggressive behavior had a significantly greater degree of parieto-occipital atrophy on CT scan (p < .05). In contrast, ventricular size and prefrontal cortical atrophy did not distinguish aggressive from nonaggressive patients. These findings suggest that cortical atrophy may be a neuroradiological marker of aggressive behavior in schizophrenia.}, }
@article {pmid11645801, year = {1992}, author = {Campbell, CS}, title = {It never dies: assessing the Nazi analogy in bioethics.}, journal = {The Journal of medical humanities}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {21-29}, pmid = {11645801}, issn = {1041-3545}, mesh = {*Bioethical Issues ; *Bioethics ; Biomedical Research ; *Complicity ; Democracy ; Double Effect Principle ; *Ethical Analysis ; Ethical Theory ; *Ethics ; Ethics, Medical ; Eugenics ; Euthanasia ; Euthanasia, Active ; Euthanasia, Passive ; Fetal Tissue Transplantation ; Germany ; Health Care Rationing ; History ; Human Experimentation ; Humans ; Intention ; Metaphor ; *Morals ; Motivation ; *National Socialism ; Patient Selection ; Physicians ; *Political Systems ; Prejudice ; *Professional Misconduct ; Quality of Life ; Research ; *Social Values ; United States ; Value of Life ; Wedge Argument ; }, abstract = {... As should be evident from the foregoing analysis, I have significant reservations about the moral utility of the Nazi analogy in debates over bioethics issues. Nevertheless, I am unable to dismiss its force entirely. I want to suggest that the real threat to the moral and human values expressed by the analogy will come not from responsibly formulated and clearly articulated proposals that undergo debate and scrutiny in the public forum, and whose practical impact in a democratic society is limited by institutional review and procedural safeguards. My concern instead is with the psychology of moral distancing, in which moral conscience is compartmentalized from vocational interests, such as the pursuit of scientific knowledge through biomedical research. It is the kind of psychology that Robert Jay Lifton has referrred to as "doubling: the division of the self into two functioning wholes, so that a part-self acts as an entire self," and which Lifton believes enabled the transformation of physicians from healers to killers in Nazi Germany....}, }
@article {pmid12318402, year = {1992}, author = {Von Urff, W}, title = {Comments on "Human Capital Accumulation in Post Green Revolution Rural Pakistan: a Progress Report".}, journal = {Pakistan development review}, volume = {31}, number = {4 Pt 1}, pages = {488-490}, pmid = {12318402}, issn = {0030-9729}, mesh = {Asia ; Demography ; Developing Countries ; *Economics ; Education ; *Educational Status ; *Evaluation Studies as Topic ; *Health Workforce ; Pakistan ; Population ; Population Characteristics ; *Rural Population ; *Schools ; Social Class ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, }
@article {pmid10183602, year = {1991}, author = {Madden, DL and Awan, J}, title = {A revealing look at the realities of reform.}, journal = {The Internist}, volume = {32}, number = {10}, pages = {10-3, 18}, pmid = {10183602}, issn = {0020-9546}, mesh = {Cost Control/methods ; Health Policy/*economics ; Health Services Accessibility ; Humans ; Internal Medicine/economics ; Medicare Part B ; National Health Insurance, United States ; United States ; }, abstract = {Attendees of ASIM's 35th Annual Meeting in Washington heard first hand from two leading health policy figures--Gail Wilensky and Sen. Jay Rockefeller--about what's ahead for health care reform. Vermont Gov. Howard Dean, MD, an internist, looked at the roles that states--and physicians--can take.}, }
@article {pmid10114926, year = {1991}, author = {Wharton, CR and Lorsch, JW and Hanson, L}, title = {Advice and dissent: rating the corporate governance compact.}, journal = {Harvard business review}, volume = {69}, number = {6}, pages = {136-143}, pmid = {10114926}, issn = {0017-8012}, mesh = {Administrative Personnel/*psychology ; Commerce/*organization &amp; administration ; *Decision Making, Organizational ; *Governing Board ; Hospitals, Proprietary/organization &amp; administration ; Humans ; Interprofessional Relations ; Ownership ; United States ; }, abstract = {The July-August 1991 HBR presented "A New Compact for Owners and Directors," a set of principles for reconciling differences between owners and managers. In "Advice and Dissent: Rating the Corporate Governance Compact," a panel of three experts evaluates the Compact--and takes issue with its fundamental recommendation. Clifton R. Wharton, Jr., chairman and CEO of TIAA-CREF, describes how his organization brings delinquent managers and directors to task. Harvard Business School professor Jay W. Lorsch explains why strengthening the role of outside directors will develop more effective corporate control. And Lord Hanson, chairman of Hanson PLC, reaffirms the importance of maintaining a unitary board of directors and maximizing shareholder value.}, }
@article {pmid10108976, year = {1991}, author = {Strosberg, MA}, title = {Intensive care units in the triage mode: an organizational perspective.}, journal = {Hospital &amp; health services administration}, volume = {36}, number = {1}, pages = {95-109}, pmid = {10108976}, issn = {8750-3735}, mesh = {Decision Making ; *Health Care Rationing ; Intensive Care Units/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Patient Admission ; Patient Discharge ; *Patient Selection ; Policy Making ; Referral and Consultation ; *Resource Allocation ; Triage/*organization &amp; administration ; Uncertainty ; United States ; }, abstract = {Decisions to admit and discharge patients to and from the intensive care unit (ICU) when beds are scarce should be made in accordance with the triage principle--that is, allocate resources on the basis of the ability to benefit from intensive care. However, uncertainty over resource capacity and patient prognosis limits the ability of decision makers to use this prioritization principle and results in ICUs containing inappropriately placed patients who are denying or delaying care to patients who could benefit more. Using Jay Galbraith's "information processing" model, ICU admission and discharge decision making is described. Organizational strategies to reduce uncertainty and improve decision making are discussed, including strengthening the management role of the ICU physician director and employing prognostic instruments (e.g., mortality prediction models) to share and process information.}, }
@article {pmid11650222, year = {1989}, author = {Caplan, AL}, title = {The meaning of the Holocaust for bioethics.}, journal = {The Hastings Center report}, volume = {19}, number = {4}, pages = {2-3}, pmid = {11650222}, issn = {0093-0334}, mesh = {*Biomedical Research ; Economics ; Ethical Theory ; Ethics ; Eugenics ; Euthanasia ; Euthanasia, Active ; Germany ; History ; *Human Experimentation ; Humans ; Hypothermia ; Jews ; *Metaphor ; *National Socialism ; Nontherapeutic Human Experimentation ; Physicians ; *Political Systems ; Prisoners ; *Research ; Research Personnel ; *Scientific Misconduct ; Social Desirability ; Warfare ; }, }
@article {pmid10303453, year = {1989}, author = {Mitzel, JR}, title = {Hospitals can use price data, surveys to help pick groups.}, journal = {Hospital material[dollar sign] management}, volume = {14}, number = {4}, pages = {15-17}, pmid = {10303453}, issn = {0888-3068}, mesh = {Costs and Cost Analysis ; Data Collection ; Decision Making ; Hospital Bed Capacity, 100 to 299 ; Hospital Shared Services/*economics ; *Materials Management, Hospital ; Ohio ; Planning Techniques ; }, abstract = {In the first of a two-part series, Jay R. Mitzel measures the price impact of committed volume purchasing and discusses a survey of leading group purchasing directors.}, }
@article {pmid11649915, year = {1987}, author = {Caplan, AL}, title = {Can we talk? A review of Jay Katz, The Silent World of Doctor and Patient.}, journal = {Western New England law review}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, pages = {43-52}, pmid = {11649915}, issn = {0190-6593}, mesh = {Attitude ; *Communication ; *Decision Making ; Disclosure ; Economics ; *Freedom ; Human Experimentation ; Humans ; *Informed Consent ; Medicine ; Moral Obligations ; *Paternalism ; Patient Care ; *Patient Participation ; Patients ; *Personal Autonomy ; *Physician-Patient Relations ; Research Personnel ; Research Subjects ; Social Dominance ; Social Responsibility ; Social Values ; }, }
@article {pmid12281421, year = {1986}, author = {Farley, R}, title = {Assessing black progress: voting and citizenship rights, residency and housing, education.}, journal = {Economic outlook USA}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {16-19}, pmid = {12281421}, issn = {0095-3830}, mesh = {*Black or African American ; Americas ; Culture ; Demography ; Developed Countries ; Economics ; *Education ; *Educational Status ; Ethnicity ; *Geography ; *Hispanic or Latino ; *Housing ; *Human Rights ; North America ; Population ; Population Characteristics ; *Prejudice ; *Residence Characteristics ; Social Class ; Socioeconomic Factors ; United States ; *Urban Population ; *Urbanization ; *White People ; }, }
@article {pmid11608464, year = {1986}, author = {}, title = {Reproduction: a behavioral and neuroendocrine perspective. In honor of Jay S. Rosenblatt.}, journal = {Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences}, volume = {474}, number = {}, pages = {1-465}, pmid = {11608464}, issn = {0077-8923}, mesh = {Animals ; Behavior, Animal/*physiology ; History, 20th Century ; History, Modern 1601- ; Hormones/*physiology ; *Neurosecretion ; New Jersey ; *Reproduction/drug effects ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid10311371, year = {1985}, author = {Gornick, M and Greenberg, JN and Eggers, PW and Dobson, A}, title = {Twenty years of Medicare and Medicaid: covered populations, use of benefits, and program expenditures.}, journal = {Health care financing review}, volume = {Suppl}, number = {Suppl}, pages = {13-59}, pmid = {10311371}, issn = {0195-8631}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aid to Families with Dependent Children ; Child ; Demography ; Health Expenditures/*trends ; Humans ; Kidney Failure, Chronic ; Medicaid/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Medicare/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Middle Aged ; Population ; United States ; }, abstract = {Marian Gornick is Director, Division of Beneficiary Studies, in the Office of Research, Health Care Financing Administration. She has been involved in research studies relating to Medicare and Medicaid since the programs were first implemented. Jay N. Greenberg is on the faculty of the Heller Graduate School, Brandeis University. Dr. Greenberg serves as the Associate Director for Research of the school's Health Policy Center. Paul W. Eggers is Chief, Program Evaluation Branch, in the Office of Research, Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA). Dr. Eggers’ research activities involve the evaluation of the impact of HCFA programs on the beneficiaries. Allen Dobson is Director, Office of Research, Health Care Financing Administration. Dr. Dobson is responsible for directing the planning and development of the Agency's research agenda.}, }
@article {pmid10261420, year = {1983}, author = {}, title = {Informed consent: a contradictory doctrine for MDs, reports lecturer Jay Katz.}, journal = {American College of Physicians observer}, volume = {3}, number = {6}, pages = {10, 14}, pmid = {10261420}, issn = {0279-9529}, mesh = {*Informed Consent ; Physician-Patient Relations ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid7162914, year = {1982}, author = {Karnes, FA and Lee, LA and May, B}, title = {Correlations among scores on the 1966, 1973, and 1979 norms of Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices for economically disadvantaged students.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {55}, number = {3 Pt 1}, pages = {793-794}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1982.55.3.793}, pmid = {7162914}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Child ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Poverty ; Reference Values ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid7145266, year = {1982}, author = {Tavris, DR and Read, JA}, title = {Effect of maternal weight gain on fetal, infant, and childhood death and on cognitive development.}, journal = {Obstetrics and gynecology}, volume = {60}, number = {6}, pages = {689-694}, pmid = {7145266}, issn = {0029-7844}, mesh = {*Body Weight ; *Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Fetal Death/etiology ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant Mortality ; Infant, Newborn ; Intelligence Tests ; *Mortality ; Pregnancy ; }, abstract = {The effect of maternal weight gain during pregnancy on fetal, infant, and childhood death and on cognitive development was analyzed by examining the conception products of 2590 women who participated in the Child Health and Development Studies of the School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley. Although there was a strong inverse association between maternal weight gain and fetal and neonatal death, the implications of this are uncertain and are herein discussed. When the analysis was confined to pregnancies with gestational periods greater than 35 weeks, there was no effect of maternal weight gain on fetal, neonatal, infant, or childhood death. Children whose mothers gained between 5 and 29 lb during their pregnancy scored higher on the Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices test at age 5 than did those whose mothers gained less than 5 or more than 29 lb. Within the 5- to 29-lb group there were no significant differences in test scores among the different categories of maternal weight gain.}, }
@article {pmid7126930, year = {1982}, author = {Ruddle, HV and Bradshaw, CM}, title = {On the estimation of premorbid intellectual functioning: validation of Nelson &amp; McKenna's formula, and some new normative data.}, journal = {The British journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {21}, number = {Pt 3}, pages = {159-165}, doi = {10.1111/j.2044-8260.1982.tb00548.x}, pmid = {7126930}, issn = {0144-6657}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Brain Damage, Chronic/psychology ; Cognition Disorders/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neurocognitive Disorders/*psychology ; Psychometrics ; Reference Values ; }, abstract = {The Schonell Graded Word Reading Test (SGWRT), the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) were administered to 78 healthy subjects aged between 18 and 84 years. Regression equations were derived for predicting Verbal, Performance and Full-Scale IQs measured with the WAIS on the basis of a subject's score on the SGWRT, and for predicting total score on the RSPM on the basis of age and score on the SGWRT. Discrepancies between obtained and predicted scores were approximately normally distributed; z scores are presented for these discrepancies for each of the predicted variables. The equation derived for predicting Full-Scale IQ was in good agreement with the equation derived by Nelson &amp; McKennais sample. 'Significant' discrepancies (z score greater than 1.645) between obtained and predicted Full-Scale IQs were found in approximately half of a group of patients with confirmed organic cortical damage. These results constitute a validation of Nelson &amp; McKenna's formula for estimating premorbid IQ, and in addition provide new normative data which may be used for estimating premorbid Verbal or Performance IQ, or score on the RSPM.}, }
@article {pmid10258853, year = {1982}, author = {Lowell, RS and DeLoach, JA}, title = {Equal Employment Opportunity: are you overlooking the application form?.}, journal = {Personnel}, volume = {59}, number = {4}, pages = {49-55}, pmid = {10258853}, issn = {0031-5702}, mesh = {Civil Rights/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Forms and Records Control ; *Job Application ; *Personnel Management ; United States ; }, abstract = {In 1975 the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) listed those subjects and questions on employment application forms that could be considered violations of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Since then, how well have U.S. firms abided by EEOC regulations in this area? Navy Lieutenants Richard S. Lowell and Jay A. DeLoach, graduate students in management and supervision at Central Michigan University, screened the application blanks used by 50 major organizations and found that 48 of them contained violations--most of which occurred in questions concerning military background, education, arrest record, physical handicaps, age, and name. The authors strongly recommend that human resources managers reevaluate their companies' selection processes and check for any violations on their application forms.}, }
@article {pmid7136005, year = {1982}, author = {Husain, MM and Kumar, A and Mukhtar, H}, title = {Inhibition of tissue aryl hydrocarbon (benzo[a]pyrene) hydroxylase by 7,8-benzoflavone in birds.}, journal = {Xenobiotica; the fate of foreign compounds in biological systems}, volume = {12}, number = {6}, pages = {375-380}, doi = {10.3109/00498258209052478}, pmid = {7136005}, issn = {0049-8254}, mesh = {Animals ; Aryl Hydrocarbon Hydroxylases/*antagonists &amp; inhibitors ; Benzoflavones/*pharmacology ; Benzopyrene Hydroxylase/*antagonists &amp; inhibitors ; Birds ; Columbidae ; Flavonoids/*pharmacology ; Kidney/*enzymology ; Liver/*enzymology ; Male ; Rats ; }, abstract = {1. Addition of 7,8-benzoflavone (7,8-BF) inhibited both hepatic and renal constitutive activity of aryl hydrocarbon (benzo[a]pyrene) hydroxylase in vitro for a number of avian species. Inhibition of hepatic benzo[a]pyrene hydroxylase was 70-94% in wild pigeon; 46-88% in homing pigeon; 85-93% in house crow; 18-53% in common kite; 56-86% in cattle egret; and for the renal enzyme was 43-84, 52-88, 18-73 and 13-48% respectively. 2. 3-Methylcholanthrene treatment of homing pigeons resulted in the induction of liver and kidney benzo[a]pyrene hydroxylase activity. Induced enzyme activity was also significantly inhibited by 7,8-BF.}, }
@article {pmid7073493, year = {1982}, author = {Mason, EE}, title = {Vertical banded gastroplasty for obesity.}, journal = {Archives of surgery (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)}, volume = {117}, number = {5}, pages = {701-706}, doi = {10.1001/archsurg.1982.01380290147026}, pmid = {7073493}, issn = {0004-0010}, mesh = {Body Weight ; Gastroenterostomy ; Humans ; Methods ; Obesity/*therapy ; Postoperative Complications ; Stomach/*surgery ; }, abstract = {Vertical banded gastroplasty combines the best that has been learned about gastric reduction operations with another feature: a window through both walls of the stomach just above the crow's foot and next to the outlet along the lesser curvature. This window allows the application of staples up to the His' angle to create a small pouch (less than 50 mL). In addition, the outlet can be banded with a polypropylene mesh collar that is sutured to itself but not to the stomach. This banding provides an outlet diameter that remains constant. In experience with 42 patients during a one-year period, there were fewer complications and greater weight loss than have been obtained with any other operation for obesity, to my knowledge.}, }
@article {pmid7096057, year = {1982}, author = {Bisgard, JC}, title = {Should physicians prepare for war? 1. The obligation to care for the casualties.}, journal = {The Hastings Center report}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {15-17}, pmid = {7096057}, issn = {0093-0334}, mesh = {*Disaster Planning ; Dissent and Disputes ; *Ethics, Medical ; Group Processes ; Humans ; *Military Medicine ; *Moral Obligations ; *Nuclear Warfare ; Physician's Role ; Social Responsibility ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid7093000, year = {1982}, author = {Zorina, ZA and Dashevskiĭ, BA and Fedotova, IB}, title = {[Ability of Corvidae to operate with the empirical dimensions of figures after destruction of the Wulst and archicortex].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {32}, number = {2}, pages = {357-359}, pmid = {7093000}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Brain/*physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Cerebral Cortex/physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Size Perception/*physiology ; }, }
@article {pmid7063353, year = {1982}, author = {Rock, DL and Nolen, PA}, title = {Comparison of the standard and computerized versions of the Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices Test.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {54}, number = {1}, pages = {40-42}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1982.54.1.40}, pmid = {7063353}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; *Computers ; Humans ; Learning Disabilities/*diagnosis ; Psychological Tests/*instrumentation ; Psychometrics ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {Computerized psychological assessment is potentially a viable alternative to the traditional method of examiner based assessment. 15 children, 4 females and 11 males, ranging in age from 7 to 14 yr., were administered a computerized version of the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices test. The necessary software for computerizing this test was developed and programmed for use with an Apple II Plus microcomputer. Scores obtained from the computerized and traditional versions of the Raven's test were compared on total mean score, correlation with the WISC-R, Raven's subscale intercorrelations, and Raven's total mean score composition. In general, results indicate that the two versions of the Raven's Matrices do not statistically significantly differ on the dimensions tested in the present study. The relatively small number of subjects and the lack of rigorous experimental control limit generalization of the results. Continued research into the use of computerized psychological assessment is warranted.}, }
@article {pmid7183560, year = {1982}, author = {Hughston, GA and Merriam, SB}, title = {Reminiscence: a nonformal technique for improving cognitive functioning in the aged.}, journal = {International journal of aging &amp; human development}, volume = {15}, number = {2}, pages = {139-149}, doi = {10.2190/61h0-ecq8-1m8h-ndyu}, pmid = {7183560}, issn = {0091-4150}, mesh = {Aged ; Cognition Disorders/*therapy ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; *Memory ; *Mental Recall ; Research ; }, abstract = {This study investigated the effect of a structured reminiscent intervention program upon cognitive functioning of the elderly. The sample consisted of 105 volunteers residing in a public housing complex in central Pennsylvania. Using an experimental design, the volunteers were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups. One group was given learning tasks to be performed using material from their past personal lives. A second group was asked to perform operations on new material and a control group was pre and posttested but given no treatment. It was found that females in the reminiscent group significantly improved scores of cognitive functioning as measured by the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices. Secondly, compared with the control Group, both the reminiscent and new material groups improved performance as a result of the planned learning activities. Both findings suggest that attempts to stimulate cognitive functioning in older people are worth undertaking, and that memories can provide the material for such activities.}, }
@article {pmid7180511, year = {1982}, author = {Péczely, P and Pethes, G}, title = {Seasonal cycle of gonadal, thyroid, and adrenocortical function in the rook (Corvus frugilegus).}, journal = {Acta physiologica Academiae Scientiarum Hungaricae}, volume = {59}, number = {1}, pages = {59-73}, pmid = {7180511}, issn = {0001-6756}, mesh = {Adrenal Cortex/*physiology ; Aging ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Corticosterone/blood ; Estrogens/blood ; Female ; Male ; Ovary/*physiology ; Progesterone/blood ; Reproduction ; *Seasons ; Testis/*physiology ; Testosterone/blood ; Thyroid Gland/*physiology ; Thyroxine/blood ; Triiodothyronine/blood ; }, }
@article {pmid7158030, year = {1982}, author = {Krushinskiĭ, LZ and Zorina, ZA}, title = {[New method of evaluation of reasoning ability in birds].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {32}, number = {5}, pages = {895-900}, pmid = {7158030}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; Birds/*physiology ; Choice Behavior ; *Conditioning, Operant ; *Higher Nervous Activity ; Methods ; }, abstract = {A study was made on 52 birds of five Corvidae species of the ability to solve an elementary logical problem proposed by L. V. Krushinsky and N. P. Popova for the assessment of non-verbal human thinking. In the problem the bait was placed in turn in each of twelve similar food cups located in one row and covered with lids. The first and second time the bird could detect the bait only by means of random search, while by the third presentation it obtained the information necessary and sufficient for errorless determination of the bait location. It was found that 25% of the studied birds coped with the problem, although some solutions were "incomplete" since along with errorless choices, the bird found the bait only after opening one or two empty cups, located near by. The data obtained attest that the Corvidae are capable of a determination of a discrete stimulus displacement schedule presented by the experimenter. This fact may be considered as one more evidence of a high level of the Corvidae reasoning ability, since the problem presents a greater degree of complexity as compared with the tests previously used.}, }
@article {pmid7152225, year = {1982}, author = {Nikodémusz, E and Imre, R}, title = {Pathological features of 3-chloro-4-methyl benzamine HCl toxicity in rooks (Corvus frugilegus L.) and pheasants (Phasianus colchicus L.).}, journal = {Gegenbaurs morphologisches Jahrbuch}, volume = {128}, number = {5}, pages = {753-761}, pmid = {7152225}, issn = {0016-5840}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/chemically induced/mortality/*pathology ; Birds ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Kidney/pathology ; Liver/pathology ; Lung/pathology ; Pericardium/pathology ; Pesticides/*toxicity ; Species Specificity ; Toluidines/*toxicity ; }, abstract = {Gross and microscopic changes in response to single po. doses of avicide 3-chloro-4-methyl benzamine HCl were studied in rooks (Corvus frugilegus L.) and pheasants (Phasianus colchicus L.). The observed changes followed a dose- and survival time related pattern and rooks were considerable more susceptible than pheasants to the toxicity of the compound. No effect was found in rooks and pheasants which survived safely 0.7 to 1.0 and 7.0 to 10.0 mg/kg doses, respectively. Early acute effect, in rooks died from 7.0 to 16.0 mg/kg within 16 to 18 h, included: congestion of the major organs, fatty degeneration of the liver, and extensive parenchymal degeneration of the kidney, particularly the proximal tubular epithelial cells. Progressive late effect developed in rooks and pheasants at 2.2 to 5.0 and 16.0 to 120.0 mg/kg doses, respectively, which died in coma between 32 to 80 h. It was characterized by a grayish white, frost-like material of uric acid overlaying the serosal surfaces of the various organs, accompanied by sterile inflammation and necrosis in the affected and adjacent tissues. Few urate deposition was also seen in some of the kidneys. Infrequently, interstitial pneumonia did also occur. The lesions produced by the toxic effect of the test compound seemed to be analogous to that of avian visceral gout.}, }
@article {pmid7106651, year = {1982}, author = {Kucera, J}, title = {Blood parasites of birds in Central Europe. 4. Trypanosoma, "Atoxoplasma", Microfilariae and other rare haematozoa.}, journal = {Folia parasitologica}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {107-113}, pmid = {7106651}, issn = {0015-5683}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/microbiology/*parasitology ; Blood/parasitology ; Coccidia/*isolation &amp; purification ; Europe ; Microfilariae/isolation &amp; purification ; Spirochaetales/*isolation &amp; purification ; Trypanosoma/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {The present paper, the last in the series on avian blood parasites in Central Europe, summarizes the data on parasites of the genera Trypanosoma, "Atoxoplasma", "Lankesterella", microfilariae and spirochaetes found in this region. Trypanosomes occur most frequently in Columbiformes, Corvidae, Galliformes and Strigiformes, while "Aloxoplasma" is encountered only in passerines, most frequently in Fringillidae, Passeridae and Hirundinidae; "Lankesterella" is to be found only in two species of passerines. Microfilariae occur in Corvidae and Galliformes, and spirochaetes were encountered in the blood smears from four birds only. All these organisms are very rarely found in birds due to the fact that the blood smears made from peripheral blood of birds are unsuitable for the diagnosis of these parasites.}, }
@article {pmid7054135, year = {1982}, author = {Gibian, GL and Kim, DO}, title = {Cochlear microphonic evidence for mechanical propagation of distortion products (f2 - f1) and (2f1 - f2).}, journal = {Hearing research}, volume = {6}, number = {1}, pages = {35-59}, doi = {10.1016/0378-5955(82)90006-5}, pmid = {7054135}, issn = {0378-5955}, support = {NS 00162/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; NS 07057/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; NS 07498/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation ; Animals ; Basilar Membrane/physiology ; Chinchilla ; Cochlear Duct/physiology ; *Cochlear Microphonic Potentials ; Cochlear Nerve/physiology ; *Evoked Potentials, Auditory ; Models, Biological ; }, abstract = {The present cochlear microphonic (CM) study was undertaken to help resolve a conflict in the literature regarding cochlear nonlinear properties. The CM studies of Dallos and his coworkers have concluded that "(up to 70-80 dB SPL [re 20 mu Pa]), all orders of distortion components...do not seem to be accompanied by traveling waves of their own" (Dallos, P. (1973): The Auditory Periphery: Biophysics and Physiology. Academic Press, New York). However, studies of spatial distributions of cochlear nerve fiber responses, acoustic distortion products in the ear canal, and related modeling studies of Kim et al. (Kim, D.O. and Molnar, C.E. (1975): in: The Nervous System, Vol. 3: Human Communication and Its Disorders. Editor: D.B. Tower. Raven Press, New York; Kim, D.O., Molnar, C.E. and Matthews, J.W. (1980): J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 67, 1704-1721) have led to conclusions to the contrary. In the present study, CM data were obtained from the second and third turns of the chinchilla cochlea using fluid-filled glass micropipettes in scala media and nichrome wire electrodes in scala vestibuli and scala tympani. We sought responses containing predominant distortion products (f2 - f1) and (2f1 - f2) by fixing a distortion frequency (fD) near the characteristic frequency (CF) of the recording site and varying the stimulus frequencies f1 and f2 and SPLs (with L1 = L2). By subsequently varying the distortion frequency around the CF, e.g., fixing f1 well above the CF and varying f2, we measured the tuning characteristics of the distortion products (f2 - f1) and (2f1 - f2). Tuning characteristics of single-tone responses were measured by applying single-tone stimuli of various frequencies with a constant SPL at the eardrum. We have observed, with SPLs as low as 25 dB, that these distortion products in CM display tuning similar to the single-tone response which is consistent with above neural results. From these tuning similarities, we conclude that our CM data reflect the presence of mechanically propagated distortion products at low SPLs, in agreement with the above studies by Kim et al. Validity of our results is supported by the sensitivity and sharp tuning of our CM data and, in the case of the scala media recordings, by the presence of a normal d.c. endolymphatic potential. Plausible explanations for the opposing conclusions of previous studies of Dallos et al. and the present study are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid7335828, year = {1981}, author = {Littmann, E}, title = {[Results of psychodiagnostic examinations in forensic-psychologically and psychiatrically evaluated criminals].}, journal = {Psychiatrie, Neurologie, und medizinische Psychologie}, volume = {33}, number = {12}, pages = {734-743}, pmid = {7335828}, issn = {0033-2739}, mesh = {*Crime ; Expert Testimony ; *Forensic Psychiatry ; Humans ; Mental Disorders/*diagnosis/psychology ; Psychological Tests ; }, abstract = {In this contribution, the necessity and expediency, but also the limits of the application of psychodiagnostic methods within the scope of forensic-psychological-psychiatric expertises are briefly discussed. On the basis of an intelligence and personality-diagnostic routine programme (RAVEN-PM, MWT-B; FPI, PpKV and Giessen test), the findings obtained in the examination of about 600 culprits who had been subjected to an expertise are presented. Test-psychological examination methods can and should reasonably supplement expertises in foro, but they will only gain their informative value and importance from the connection with the anamnesis, the content of the records, the exploration of the personality, of deed and deed experience of the person on whom expert opinion was given and the large range of neuropsychiatric diagnostic methods.}, }
@article {pmid7335487, year = {1981}, author = {Rosef, O}, title = {[The occurrence of campylobacter fetus subsp. jejuni and Salmonella bacteria in some wild birds (author's transl)].}, journal = {Nordisk veterinaermedicin}, volume = {33}, number = {12}, pages = {539-543}, pmid = {7335487}, issn = {0029-1579}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*microbiology ; Campylobacter/*isolation &amp; purification ; Campylobacter fetus/*isolation &amp; purification ; Disease Reservoirs/veterinary ; Norway ; Salmonella/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {An investigation was carried out into the occurrence of Campylobacter fetus subsp. jejuni and Salmonella species in some wild birds. A total of 129 birds was examined, consisting of 71 pigeons, 54 seagulls, three crows and one raven. Campylobacter bacteria were isolated from 32 birds (24.8%), of which three were pigeons, 27 seagulls and two were crows. Of the 27 Campylobacter strains isolated from seagulls, four had the biochemical characteristics of the NARTC biotype described by Skirrow and Benjamin, seven were grouped as Campylobacter coli biotype and 16 as the biotype of Campylobacter jejuni. All the strains isolated from crows and pigeons had the biochemical characteristics of Campylobacter jejuni biotypes. Salmonella bacteria were isolated from the intestinal contents of two of the 54 seagulls (3.7%), and were identified serologically as Salmonella indiana and Salmonella typhimurium. One seagull was found to be a carrier of both Campylobacter fetus subsp. jejuni and Salmonella typhimurium. A correlation could not be demonstrated between the occurrence of Salmonella bacteria and Campylobacter fetus subsp. jejuni.}, }
@article {pmid7326564, year = {1981}, author = {Basso, A and Capitani, E and Luzzatti, C and Spinnler, H}, title = {Intelligence and left hemisphere disease. The role of aphasia, apraxia and size of lesion.}, journal = {Brain : a journal of neurology}, volume = {104}, number = {Pt 4}, pages = {721-734}, doi = {10.1093/brain/104.4.721}, pmid = {7326564}, issn = {0006-8950}, mesh = {Aphasia/physiopathology/*psychology ; Aphasia, Broca/psychology ; Aphasia, Wernicke/psychology ; Apraxias/*physiopathology/psychology ; Brain Diseases/physiopathology/*psychology ; Cerebral Cortex/physiopathology ; Dominance, Cerebral/*physiology ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Middle Aged ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {The Raven Progressive Matrices and four subtests of the Wechsler-Bellevue Performance Scale were given to 173 left hemisphere patients subdivided according to presence/absence, type (fluent/non-fluent) and severity (moderate/severe) of aphasia. Constructive and ideomotor apraxia scores and CT scan data of each subject entered the statistical analysis. Factors significant in producing a low score on Progressive Matrices and Wechsler-Bellevue were presence of aphasia and constructive apraxia. Site and size of lesion per se failed to account for the intelligence scores. The relationship between aphasia, apraxia, intelligence test scores, and CT scan data were discussed in an attempt to clarify the meaning of these low intelligence test scores in aphasics and to assess the underlying roles of the brain lesions in this deficit. It appears that there are a number of methodological difficulties complicating interpretation of the intellectual deficit based on the Progressive Matrices and Wechsler-Bellevue scores, since performance on these tests is adversely affected by both aphasia and apraxia.}, }
@article {pmid7349617, year = {1981}, author = {Shagass, C and Roemer, RA and Straumanis, JJ}, title = {Intelligence as a factor in evoked potential studies of psychopathology. II. Correlations between treatment-associated changes in IQ and evoked potentials.}, journal = {Biological psychiatry}, volume = {16}, number = {11}, pages = {1031-1040}, pmid = {7349617}, issn = {0006-3223}, support = {MH 12507/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Evoked Potentials/*drug effects ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence/drug effects ; Male ; Mental Disorders/*drug therapy/physiopathology ; Middle Aged ; }, abstract = {The first report of this series indicated that evoked potential (EP) characteristics previously shown to correlate with psychopathology differed between subjects with high and low intelligence test scores (IQ). This paper reports the results of an attempt to determine if these IQ-EP relationships could result from variations in clinical state, rather than from differences between groups in trait IQ. Two patient groups were selected on the basis of the shifts in their Raven Progressive Matrices scores from first test to retest: (i) increase of 17-46 percentile points; (ii) decrease of 5 to 30 points. Their somatosensory, visual, and auditory EPs were compared in several ways to determine if the EP changes on retest were correlated with the IQ changes, as predicted from the state hypothesis. The results did not confirm the predictions, suggesting that the previous findings reflected differences in trait IQ.}, }
@article {pmid7349616, year = {1981}, author = {Shagass, C and Roemer, RA and Straumanis, JJ and Josiassen, RC}, title = {Intelligence as a factor in evoked potential studies of psychopathology. I. Comparison of low and high IQ subjects.}, journal = {Biological psychiatry}, volume = {16}, number = {11}, pages = {1007-1030}, pmid = {7349616}, issn = {0006-3223}, support = {MH07920/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; MH12507/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Child ; *Evoked Potentials ; Evoked Potentials, Auditory ; Evoked Potentials, Somatosensory ; Evoked Potentials, Visual ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Mental Disorders/*physiopathology/psychology ; Middle Aged ; Psychotic Disorders/physiopathology/psychology ; }, abstract = {To evaluate possible influences of differences in intelligence on evoked potential (EP) relations to psychopathology, EPs of subjects with high and low scores on Raven's Progressive Matrices were compared. EPs to left median nerve (LSEP), right median nerve (RSEP), visual (VEP), and auditory (AEP) stimul were recorded from 15 leads. EPs of age- and sex-matched high and low IQ nonpatients (7 of each) and psychiatric patients (40 of each) were compared with respect to group mean EPs, amplitude, latency, and wave-shape stability measures; high and low IQ patients were also matched for diagnosis. Certain differences between high and low IQ subjects were common to both patients and nonpatients; lower IQ was associated with (i) higher early (before 100 msec) LSEP and RSEP amplitudes; (ii) lower later LSEP amplitudes; (iii) less late epoch LSEP wave-shape stability; (iv) less VEP wave-shape stability. Since these EP characteristics resemble deviations from normal reported for psychotics, intelligence differences could account for part, but by no means all, of the psychopathology-related EP differences. The relationship to IQ of the EP contour length ("string") measure, reported by Hendrickson and Hendrickson to be highly correlated with IQ, was also assessed; results were negative.}, }
@article {pmid12279556, year = {1981}, author = {Roth, EA}, title = {Demography and computer simulation in historic village population reconstruction.}, journal = {Journal of anthropological research}, volume = {37}, number = {3}, pages = {279-301}, doi = {10.1086/jar.37.3.3629729}, pmid = {12279556}, issn = {0091-7710}, mesh = {Americas ; Anthropology ; *Anthropology, Cultural ; Canada ; *Demography ; Developed Countries ; Genetics, Population ; *Models, Theoretical ; North America ; Research ; Social Sciences ; *Statistics as Topic ; }, abstract = {"Demographic anthropology has given rise to methodological advances in the analysis of single community populations. However, the obstacles of small data bases and incomplete vital-event registration remain. This paper details one approach to these problems; the principles of community demography are incorporated with computer simulation methodology, with the goals of validating the internal consistency of and determining demographic secular trends from data commonly utilized in anthropological investigations." The approach is tested on data for the 250 inhabitants of Old Crow Village, Yukon Territory, Canada, in 1978.}, }
@article {pmid7338980, year = {1981}, author = {Pfaffenberger, GS and Butler, WF}, title = {Helminths recovered from the white-necked raven (Corvus cryptoleucus couch) in eastern New Mexico.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {17}, number = {4}, pages = {563-566}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-17.4.563}, pmid = {7338980}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Birds/parasitology ; Cestode Infections/parasitology/veterinary ; Female ; *Helminthiasis, Animal ; Male ; Nematode Infections/parasitology/veterinary ; New Mexico ; }, }
@article {pmid7338973, year = {1981}, author = {Taylor, TT and Pence, DB}, title = {Avian cholera in common crows, Corvus brachyrhynchos, from the central Texas panhandle.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {17}, number = {4}, pages = {511-514}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-17.4.511}, pmid = {7338973}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/pathology ; Birds ; Liver/pathology ; Pasteurella Infections/epidemiology/pathology/*veterinary ; Texas ; }, abstract = {An epornitic of avian cholera involving approximately 150 birds is described from a flock of common crows, Corvus brachyrhynchos, on a single playa lake utilized as a roost in Castro County, Texas, during early spring of 1980. There was a concomitant epornitic of avian cholera involving several hundred ducks and geese of several species on adjacent lakes in he same area. Crows scavenged extensively on waterfowl carcasses. Gross and histopathologic lesions in waterfowl were typical of acute avian cholera. Crows had a more chronic form of the disease, especially neurological involvement with the most common lesion consisting of a hemorrhagic meningitis. Other endemic species from which Pasteurella multocida was isolated included the short-eared owl, Asio flammeus, and cottontail rabbit, Silvilagus sp. The role of crows in the dissemination and maintenance of avian cholera is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid7338002, year = {1981}, author = {Aston, SJ}, title = {Orbicularis oculi muscle flaps. A follow-up of the technique to reduce crow's feet and lateral canthal skin folds.}, journal = {Clinics in plastic surgery}, volume = {8}, number = {4}, pages = {679-686}, pmid = {7338002}, issn = {0094-1298}, mesh = {Eyelids/*surgery ; Face/surgery ; Facial Muscles ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Methods ; Middle Aged ; *Surgical Flaps ; }, }
@article {pmid7340061, year = {1981}, author = {Sulochana, S and Pillai, RM and Nair, GK and Sudharma, D and Abdulla, PK}, title = {Epizootology of Newcastle disease in Indian house crows.}, journal = {The Veterinary record}, volume = {109}, number = {12}, pages = {249-251}, doi = {10.1136/vr.109.12.249}, pmid = {7340061}, issn = {0042-4900}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/analysis ; Birds ; Housing ; India ; Newcastle Disease/*epidemiology/immunology ; Newcastle disease virus/immunology ; }, abstract = {During an investigation into the role of Indian house crows (Corvus splendens splendens) in the epizootology of Newcastle disease, a total of 164 samples from 82 crows were examined. Fifteen isolations of Newcastle diseases virus were made from 10 birds and one of these was highly pathogenic to chicken. Haemagglutination inhibition (HI) tests showed that 38 per cent of these crows possessed antibody to Newcastle disease virus. Initiation and duration of virus excretion and development of HI antibodies were also studied by experimental infection. Virus excretion began on day 3, continued till day 5 and complete elimination occurred by day 6. HI antibody titre began to rise from the seventh day to peak by the twenty-first day and declined thereafter.}, }
@article {pmid7329784, year = {1981}, author = {Nielsen, BB and Clausen, B and Elvestad, K}, title = {The incidence of Salmonella bacteria in wild-living animals from Denmark and in imported animals.}, journal = {Nordisk veterinaermedicin}, volume = {33}, number = {9-11}, pages = {427-433}, pmid = {7329784}, issn = {0029-1579}, mesh = {Animal Population Groups/*microbiology ; Animals ; Animals, Wild/*microbiology ; Birds/*microbiology ; Denmark ; Greenland ; Mammals/*microbiology ; Salmonella/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {In a 6 year examination (1975-80) of 3036 game mammals and 3004 game birds from Denmark, and of 684 warm-blooded animals of foreign origin, Salmonella was found in 0.2% of Danish mammals, 0.8% of danish game birds, and 0.1% of the animals of foreign origin. Furthermore, Salmonella was isolated from 16% of 605 mute swans which died from starvation during the winter 1978-79, and from 2.4% of 296 faeces samples from hooded crows. Even though the occurrence of Salmonella among Danish cattle has been increasing during recent years, this does not seem to be the case among game, mallards excepted. Mallards raised in breeding units are often treated with antibiotics as a routine; in this way the mortality due to Salmonella is reduced, but some birds will still carry Salmonella bacteria when released. The high salmonella frequency among the mute swans that died during the winter of 1978-79 was probably a result of large numbers of birds gathering in harbours or in small stretches of open water near sew outlets.}, }
@article {pmid7318931, year = {1981}, author = {Murakami, T and Saito, I and Mochizuki, K}, title = {[The sinuatrial node of the avian heart (author's transl)].}, journal = {Jikken dobutsu. Experimental animals}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {263-268}, doi = {10.1538/expanim1978.30.3_263}, pmid = {7318931}, issn = {0007-5124}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Sinoatrial Node/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {Comparative histologic observations were made of the sinuatrial nodes of avian hearts from a short-tailed shearwater (Puffinus tenuirostris), a black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax), two ducks (Anas platyrhycha domestica), eight Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix Japonica), a pigeon (Columba livia domestica), a macaw (Ara macao), three budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) and a jungle crow (Corvus macrorhynchos). The node lies between the right atrial myocardium and epicardium at the right caudal region of the orifice of right anterior vena cava, where the right and left sinuatrial valves come close each and fuse with the right atrial wall. The sinuatrial node is well developed in the duck, black-crowned night heron and budgerigar and enters into the both sinuatrial valves and, in the budgerigar, further into the sinus septum. In the duck and black-crowned night heron, the node is composed of two types of cells; the one is atrial muscle-like cells and the other has morphologic characteristics intermediate between atrial muscle fiber and the Purkinje fiber. The node cells of the budgerigar are of the intermediate cells, while the nodal cells in the jungle crow, macaw, short-tailed shearwater, pigeon and Japanese quail are totally atrial muscle-like cells. The nodal cells of these birds are continuous with the adjacent ordinary cardiac muscle fibers and subendocardial Purkinje fibers of the right atrium, but do not reach to the atrioventricular node. There is an extensive network of Purkinje fibers beneath the endocardium and around arteries in both atrial walls, though not as far as to the atrioventricular node, nor to the ventricle.}, }
@article {pmid7285591, year = {1981}, author = {Zaidel, E and Zaidel, DW and Sperry, RW}, title = {Left and right intelligence: case studies of Raven's progressive matrices following brain bisection and hemidecortication.}, journal = {Cortex; a journal devoted to the study of the nervous system and behavior}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {167-185}, doi = {10.1016/s0010-9452(81)80039-1}, pmid = {7285591}, issn = {0010-9452}, support = {GM-01335/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; MH-00179/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; MH-57381/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Brain/*surgery ; Cerebral Decortication ; *Functional Laterality ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; }, }
@article {pmid7279596, year = {1981}, author = {Kaphalia, BS and Husain, MM and Seth, TD and Kumar, A and Murti, CR}, title = {Organochlorine pesticide residues in some Indian wild birds.}, journal = {Pesticides monitoring journal}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {9-13}, pmid = {7279596}, issn = {0031-6156}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*metabolism ; Chickens/metabolism ; Columbidae/metabolism ; *Hydrocarbons, Chlorinated ; India ; Insecticides/*analysis/blood ; Pesticide Residues/*analysis ; Tissue Distribution ; }, abstract = {Residues of BHC and DDT were estimated by gas-liquid chromatographic analysis of the internal body organs, depot fat, and blood plasma of a few species of Indian wild birds, captured in and around the urban area of Lucknow. Total BHC and gamma-BHC (lindane) levels were high in breast muscle, liver, heart, and lung tissues of pigeon, crow, and vulture, compared with the respective tissues of chicken, cattle egret, and kite. More lindane and total BHC was found in tissues of vulture compared with other species. The major part of BHC isomers in the brain of birds examined was accounted for by alpha-BHC. Total BHC detected in depot fat of crows was 29.7 ppm; lesser amounts were found in vulture, kite, and cattle egret, respectively. Total DDT levels were comparable in the blood plasma of chicken, pigeon, crow, and cattle egret, although residues generally showed the following order in the tissues examined: chicken less than pigeon less than cattle egret less than crow less than kite less than vulture. High levels of DDT were detected in depot fat of crow, kite, and vulture (50.8, 67.0 and 95.3 ppm, respectively). Avian species thus reflect biological magnification of BHC and DDT residues, presumably due to their food habits.}, }
@article {pmid7264640, year = {1981}, author = {Das, M and Dixit, R and Seth, PK and Mukhtar, H}, title = {Glutathione-S-transferase activity in the brain: species, sex, regional, and age differences.}, journal = {Journal of neurochemistry}, volume = {36}, number = {4}, pages = {1439-1442}, doi = {10.1111/j.1471-4159.1981.tb00584.x}, pmid = {7264640}, issn = {0022-3042}, mesh = {Aging ; Animals ; Birds ; Brain/*enzymology/growth &amp; development ; Columbidae ; Cytosol/enzymology ; Female ; Glutathione Transferase/*metabolism ; Guinea Pigs ; Male ; Mice ; Rats ; Sex Factors ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Glutathione-S-transferase activity in the brain of male mammals (rat and mouse) was found to be relatively lower than in that of females. In contrast, the male aves (pigeon, kite, vulture, and crow) exhibited comparatively higher activity in brain glutathione-S-transferase than the corresponding females. Postnatal development of cytosolic glutathione-S-transferase activity in the rat brain was also investigated. The day-7 rats showed a low activity of 48 nmol/min/mg protein that gradually increased 3.2-fold over the age of 28 days. No striking differences in brain enzyme activities were observed between the 35- and 90-day-old rats. Discrete brain regions of immature rats were found to possess considerable but lower quantities of glutathione-S-transferase activity than those of the adults. The activity increased with the onset of development and attained a steady state after 21 days of age.}, }
@article {pmid7255069, year = {1981}, author = {Gabassi, PG}, title = {Meaningfulness and isolation effect for normal and retarded subjects.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {52}, number = {2}, pages = {595-598}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1981.52.2.595}, pmid = {7255069}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Child ; Color Perception ; Discrimination Learning ; Female ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*psychology ; Male ; *Memory ; *Mental Recall ; *Serial Learning ; }, abstract = {The aim of this study was to verify whether, in the normal and retarded subjects (aged 11.7 yr.), the isolation effect is less evidence the lower the meaningfulness of the material to be recalled. 12 groups were tested, six normal and six retarded, each of 25 subjects. The retardation was diagnosed with Raven's Progressive Matrix '38. Three series each of 9 CVC trigrams were used at 15--20%, 50--55% and 85--90% of associative value, respectively. Each trigram was exposed for 3 sec. As the level of meaningfulness increased so did the isolation effect for both normal and retarded subjects. For the retarded, however, the isolation effect only appears when the level of meaningfulness is very high.}, }
@article {pmid7451494, year = {1981}, author = {Rando, RR}, title = {The chemical labeling of glutamate decarboxylase in vivo.}, journal = {The Journal of biological chemistry}, volume = {256}, number = {3}, pages = {1111-1114}, pmid = {7451494}, issn = {0021-9258}, support = {NS 11550/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Alkynes ; Aminocaproates/*pharmacology ; Animals ; Brain/*enzymology ; Carboxy-Lyases/*metabolism ; Cyclohexanecarboxylic Acids/*pharmacology ; Cyclohexylamines/pharmacology ; Glutamate Decarboxylase/*metabolism ; Kinetics ; Mice ; Protein Binding ; Tritium ; }, abstract = {Mouse brain glutamate decarboxylase(s) was specifically titrated in vivo and in crude brain homogenates by a combination of gabaculine and [alpha-3H]acetylenic gamma-aminobutyric acid. This specific titration is based on the differential spectra of action of these two mechanism-based enzyme inactivators. The specificity of the titration in vitro was demonstrated by showing that the time course of radioactivity incorporation exactly paralleled the time course for glutamate of decarboxylase inactivation. Furthermore, pretreatment of the crude homogenate with aminooxyacetic acid and alpha-methyl-trans-3-dehydroglutamate, two inactivators of glutamate decarboxylase which function by entirely different mechanisms, decreased count incorporation ([alpha-3H]acetylenic gamma-aminobutyric acid) to the same extent as the activity was decreased. Injection of [alpha-3H]acetylenic gamma-aminobutyric acid intraperitoneally after gabaculine injection led to incorporation of 0.46 nmol of inactivator/mouse brain, when approximatley 70% of the enzyme was inactivated. This means that there is approximately 0.66 nmol of glutamate decarboxylase/0.5 g of mouse brain, assuming the stoichiometry of inactivator bound to enzyme is one. This value is similar to the one (0.646 nmol) obtained from a calculation based on the enzyme purification data (Wu, J.-Y. (1974) in gamma-Aminobutyric Acid in Nervous System Function (Roberts, E., Chase, E. N., and Tower, D. B., eds) pp. 7-55, Raven Press, New York).}, }
@article {pmid7459627, year = {1981}, author = {Pendower, JE}, title = {A comparison of the Burge and Grassi intraoperative tests for completeness of nerve section in parietal cell vagotomy.}, journal = {The British journal of surgery}, volume = {68}, number = {2}, pages = {83-84}, doi = {10.1002/bjs.1800680207}, pmid = {7459627}, issn = {0007-1323}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Duodenal Ulcer/physiopathology/*surgery ; *Electrodiagnosis ; Female ; Gastric Acid/metabolism ; Humans ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Intraoperative Period ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Pentagastrin ; Pressure ; Stomach/physiopathology ; *Vagotomy ; *Vagotomy, Proximal Gastric ; }, abstract = {The Burge and Grassi tests were compared in 22 patients after parietal cell vagotomy. Dissection was continued until the Burge test was negative or until no further nerve fibres could be found. Three Burge-negative patients were Grassi-positive, 2 due to inadequate division of the terminal branches of the nerve of Latarjet at the 'crow's foot' and 1 due to epiploic fibres. One Burge-positive patient was also Grassi-positive but the latter test indicated the position of an undivided oesophageal nerve fibre. It is concluded that the Grassi intraoperative test for completeness of vagotomy is superior to the Burge procedure because it shows how much stomach needs to be vagotomized to denervate the parietal cells and abolish gastric acid secretion and also indicates the position of residual fibres if vagotomy is incomplete.}, }
@article {pmid11630841, year = {1981}, author = {Gregg, JB and Zimmerman, LJ and Steele, JP and Ferwerda, H and Gregg, PS}, title = {Ante-mortem osteopathology at Crow Creek.}, journal = {Plains anthropologist}, volume = {26}, number = {94 pt 1}, pages = {287-300}, doi = {10.1080/2052546.1981.11909059}, pmid = {11630841}, issn = {0032-0447}, mesh = {History, Ancient ; History, Early Modern 1451-1600 ; History, Medieval ; History, Modern 1601- ; Paleopathology/*history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid7299031, year = {1981}, author = {Rudolph, J}, title = {Aggression in the service of the ego and the self.}, journal = {Journal of the American Psychoanalytic Association}, volume = {29}, number = {3}, pages = {559-579}, doi = {10.1177/000306518102900304}, pmid = {7299031}, issn = {0003-0651}, mesh = {Aggression/*psychology ; Child ; Child Behavior Disorders/*psychology ; *Ego ; Humans ; Male ; Narcissism ; Object Attachment ; Psychoanalytic Therapy ; }, abstract = {With Jay, as with other patients in psychoanalysis, the pathological has shed light on the normal. First, during symbiosis, physical illness markedly disrupted his sense of well-being. He did not develop sufficient reserves of narcissism and instead built up a superabundance of hostile aggression. In the differentiation subphase of separation-individuation, his aggression could not be used constructively in the service of differentiation. In the practicing subphase, still immobilized, he was unable to effect even physical separation, let alone psychic separation. These subphase inadequacies, of course, influenced the character of his rapprochement subphase. With functioning already impaired by earlier subphase experience, continuing emotional pain and frustration affected his ability to negotiate the rapprochement subphase. Missing for Jay were the contributions that an adequate rapprochement subphase furnishes the organizing function of the ego. Not only did the rapprochement subphase fail to correct the inadequacies of the earlier subphases, the failures of rapprochement represented the last and final blow to the development of even a semblance of self- and object constancy, so that borderline pathology was the result. We can follow the progress made by the analysand by his own statements: Early: "I don't have a reserve of self-love to carry me through." Later, "I'm at a stage when I feel I can organize things without great anxiety. Plan things. Going ahead and slipping back sometimes too, but feeling confident." It has been the aim of this paper to show how the most malignant narcissistic rage has been converted into constructive aggression. Despite the greatest intrinsic and environmental odds, this patient, because of his good endowment, and aided by psychoanalysis, succeeded in gradually converting destructive aggression into constructive aggression by amalgamating it with more and more libido. Along with this, he also developed a sound secondary narcissism, so that his prognosis at eighteen years of age is optimistic.}, }
@article {pmid7288435, year = {1981}, author = {Fowler, CJ and Carlsson, A and Winblad, B}, title = {Monoamine oxidase-A and -B activities in the brain stem of schizophrenics and non-schizophrenic psychotics.}, journal = {Journal of neural transmission}, volume = {52}, number = {1-2}, pages = {23-32}, pmid = {7288435}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aging ; Brain Stem/*enzymology/growth &amp; development ; Humans ; Isoenzymes/*metabolism ; Middle Aged ; Monoamine Oxidase/*metabolism ; Pons/enzymology ; Psychosurgery ; Psychotic Disorders/*enzymology ; Schizophrenia/*enzymology ; }, abstract = {In the pons of autopsy cases who had suffered from chronic schizophrenic or nonschizophrenic psychoses, an increased activity of monoamine oxidase -B but not -A was found, as compared with age-matched controls. Consequently, the ratio of the activities of MAO-B : MAO-A was elevated in the cases of psychosis. There was no significant difference in enzyme activities between schizophrenic and nonschizophrenic psychoses. Lobotomy appeared not to influence the monoamine oxidase activity. Increased ratios of the activities of MAO-B : MAO-A in various brain parts of chronic schizophrenics in comparison with age-matched controls was found in the previously published data of Eckert et al (1980) and Schwartz et al. (1974) but not Crow et al. (1979). The mechanism underlying the change in enzyme activities is unclear. There seems to exist an association between an increased monoamine oxidase-B activity and degenerative processes in the brain resulting in loss of neuronal activity. The change observed may be linked either to pathological processes associated with chronic psychosis or to long-term treatment with neuroleptic drugs.}, }
@article {pmid7253102, year = {1981}, author = {Bartlett, CM and Anderson, RC}, title = {Occult filariasis in crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos brachyrhynchos Brehm) infected with Splendidofilaria caperata Hibler, 1964 (Nematoda: Filarioidea).}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {17}, number = {1}, pages = {69-77}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-17.1.69}, pmid = {7253102}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology/pathology ; Birds ; Female ; Filariasis/parasitology/pathology/*veterinary ; Male ; Pulmonary Artery/parasitology/pathology ; }, abstract = {Adult Splendidofilaria caperata Hibler, 1964 were found in the tunica media of the pulmonary arteries of 21% of 341 crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos brachyrhynchos Brehm) wintering in southern Ontario, Canada. Microfilariae of S. caperata were not observed in the peripheral blood or in skin snips of infected crows. Microfilariae were rarely found in lung blood and then only in small numbers. Microfilariae were apparently overcome in the wall of the pulmonary artery; chronic inflammation was associated with their presence in arterial tissue. Crows apparently acquire S. caperata from insects that hae fed on birds in which a microfilaraemia does develop.}, }
@article {pmid7248874, year = {1981}, author = {Hanson, J and Howell, J}, title = {Possible fenthion toxicity in magpies (Pica pica).}, journal = {The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {18-19}, pmid = {7248874}, issn = {0008-5286}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*chemically induced ; Birds ; Fenthion/*poisoning ; }, abstract = {Unusual mortality in magpies (Pica pica) is described. Dead or sick birds were discovered in proximity to cattle in Alberta feedlots. Subsequent examinations indicated magpies were being exposed to fenthion, an organophosphate used on cattle for control of warble larvae and lice. The possibility of toxicity with fenthion is suggested.}, }
@article {pmid7245906, year = {1981}, author = {Zorina, ZA and Fedotova, IB}, title = {[Role of the wulst in solving extrapolation problems in Corvidae birds].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {31}, number = {1}, pages = {185-187}, pmid = {7245906}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Brain/*physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; }, }
@article {pmid7251266, year = {1980}, author = {Yadav, MP and Sethi, MS}, title = {A study on the reservoir status of Q-fever in avifauna, wild mammals and poikilotherms in Uttar Pradesh (India).}, journal = {International journal of zoonoses}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {85-89}, pmid = {7251266}, issn = {0377-0168}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/microbiology ; Disease Reservoirs/*veterinary ; India ; Mammals/microbiology ; Q Fever/*veterinary ; Reptiles/microbiology ; }, abstract = {Fifteen species of free-living birds (pigeon, mynah, house-sparrow, crow, vulture, owl, swallow, parrot, heron, duck, guinea fowl, hawk, kite, dove and peacock), 11 species of small/large wild mammals (rat, bandicoot, house mouse, shrew, bat, mongoose, ant eater, Jackal wild cat, chinkara and tiger) and 5 species of poikilotherms (snakes, python, tortoise, monitor and eel) were screened for evidence of Q-fever infection by the capillary agglutination test on sera to detect antibodies and/or by attempts to demonstrate Coxiella burnetii in samples of visceral organs. Sero-reactors were observed among mynah (19/69), owlet (1/6), pigeon (1/11), swallow (6/200), parrot (13/56), rat (3/21), shrew (1/24), bat (2/14) and snake (7/23). Eleven strains of the organism comprising 3 from mynah, 2 from rats, and 1 each from parrot, crow, swallow, bandicoot, chinkara and python were isolated. This appears to be the first record of natural Q-fever infection in free-living birds in India. C. burnetii was also recovered in 1 of 12 water samples processed from ponds. Possibility of contamination of ponds with C. burnetii from infected water-fauna has been discussed.}, }
@article {pmid7220226, year = {1980}, author = {Schmidtke, A and Schaller, S}, title = {Comparative study of factor structure of Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {51}, number = {3 Pt 2}, pages = {1244-1246}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1980.51.3f.1244}, pmid = {7220226}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Color Perception ; Discrimination Learning ; *Form Perception ; Humans ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Perceptual Closure ; }, abstract = {The Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices were administered on group or individual bases to children ranging in age from 4 yr. 9 mo. to 11 yr. 0 mo. (N = 728). Factor analysis yielded three factors: 1. Perceptual closure involving complex figures and patterns with heterogeneous inner structures, 2. Concrete and abstract reasoning, 3. Completion of homogeneous patterns and recognition of given elements. Factor matrix comparisons across age groups resulted in a mean similarity coefficient of .75. Comparisons of data with earlier analyses also resulted in high similarity. This supports the hypothesis of a three-factor structure rather than a four-factor solution or a simple dual classification into items which can be solved by perceptual processes and those which require conceptual solutions.}, }
@article {pmid7193453, year = {1980}, author = {Foch, TT and Plomin, R}, title = {Specific cognitive abilities in 5- to 12-year-old twins.}, journal = {Behavior genetics}, volume = {10}, number = {6}, pages = {507-520}, pmid = {7193453}, issn = {0001-8244}, mesh = {Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Cognition ; Environment ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Memory ; Pregnancy ; Space Perception ; Twins/*psychology ; Twins, Dizygotic/psychology ; Twins, Monozygotic/psychology ; Verbal Behavior ; Visual Perception ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {Eleven tests of specific cognitive abilities were administered to 108 pairs of young twins (average age of 7.6 years). Internal consistencies are high for all measures except Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices and Delayed Picture Memory. Two-month, test-retest reliabilities are also reported. The twin sample is representative in terms of both means and variances when compared to normative data from standardization samples, and twin correlations for height and weight are similar to those obtained in six other twin studies. Because all measures were highly correlated with age (average correlation with age was 0.64), scores were aged adjusted. Previous twin studies of specific cognitive abilities in adolescents and adults found genetic variance for nearly all tests. In contrast, our study of young twins yielded significant genetic influence for only 1 of the 11 measures, PIAT Reading Recognition, and suggested the possibility of genetic influence on 2 others (vocabulary and WISC-R mazes). Environmental influences seem to dominate, particularly for nonverbal measures, as children begin their education. In accord with other studies, we found that between-family environmental factors have an important influence on the development of nearly all of the measures of specific cognitive abilities. However, we found that our tests of perceptual speed and memory were substantially influenced by within-family environmental factors independent of error.}, }
@article {pmid7463608, year = {1980}, author = {Pfaffenberger, GS and Butler, WF and Hudson, DS}, title = {New host record and notes on mallophaga from the white-necked raven (Corvus cryptoleucus Couch).}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {545-547}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-16.4.545}, pmid = {7463608}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Birds/*parasitology ; Ectoparasitic Infestations/parasitology/*veterinary ; Feathers/parasitology ; Female ; Male ; New Mexico ; Phthiraptera/*classification ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Fifty-eight white-necked ravens (Corvus cryptoleucus) were examined for ectoparasites. Brueelia afzali and Philopterus ocellatus osborni were the most abundant mallophagans while Colpocephalum fregili and Myrsidea interruptus were the least common. The white-necked raven is listed as a new host for P. ocellatus osborni. Host sexual selection is indicated by statistical treatment of data obtained from ecologically distinct host populations.}, }
@article {pmid7403878, year = {1980}, author = {Dayhoff, MO and Schwartz, RM and Chen, HR and Hunt, LT and Barker, WC and Orcutt, BC}, title = {Nucleic acid sequence bank.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {209}, number = {4462}, pages = {1182}, pmid = {7403878}, issn = {0036-8075}, mesh = {Base Sequence ; *Information Systems ; *Nucleic Acids ; }, abstract = {In the report by T. Kakunaga and J. D. Crow (25 July, p. 505), Fig. 1 on page 506 should have been printed as follows: [See figure in the PDF file]}, }
@article {pmid7412225, year = {1980}, author = {Shewan, CM and Kertesz, A}, title = {Reliability and validity characteristics of the Western Aphasia Battery (WAB).}, journal = {The Journal of speech and hearing disorders}, volume = {45}, number = {3}, pages = {308-324}, doi = {10.1044/jshd.4503.308}, pmid = {7412225}, issn = {0022-4677}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aphasia/diagnosis ; Humans ; Language Tests/*standards ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/*standards ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {The reliability and validity characteristics of the Western Aphasia Battery (WAB) are described. High internal consistency measures and high test-retest reliability argue for stability of the test both because its parts contribute to the composite index and because of its temporal reliability. Inter- and intrajudge reliability are both very high, suggesting consistent scoring within and between scorers. The WAB satisfies face- and content-validity criteria. Results from the WAB and the Neurosensory Center Comprehensive Examination for Aphasia (NCCEA) highly correlate, indicating good construct validity. WAB AQ scores and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices scores significantly correlate, suggesting that the language portions of the WAB are not totally independent from nonverbal functioning. WAB AQ scores reliably differentiate between aphasic and control groups, with only a small overlap for high functioning anomic aphasic subjects.}, }
@article {pmid7411742, year = {1980}, author = {Cawthorn, RJ and Anderson, RC}, title = {Diplotriaena tricuspis (Fedtschenko, 1874) (Nematoda: Diplotriaenoidea) in crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos Brehm) wintering in Ontario.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {16}, number = {3}, pages = {363-365}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-16.3.363}, pmid = {7411742}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*parasitology ; Nematoda ; Nematode Infections/epidemiology/*veterinary ; Ontario ; }, abstract = {Two hundred and eleven of 4404 (4.8%) crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) collected in the winters of 1976-77 and 1977-78 in Essex County, southwestern Ontario, were infected with Diplotriaena tricuspis (Fedtschenko, 1874) Henry and Ozoux, 1909. Prevalence of potentially patent infections was only 2.6%, however, as crows often had nematodes of a single sex only. Intensity was 4.0 (1-74) and was similar in both male and female crows of all age groups. Intensity tended to be higher in young-of-the-year crows than yearlings and adults.}, }
@article {pmid7461918, year = {1980}, author = {Sharma, VD and Sethi, MS and Singh, SP}, title = {The occurrence of salmonellae in free-flying-avifauna: isolation and antibiogram.}, journal = {International journal of zoonoses}, volume = {7}, number = {1}, pages = {54-57}, pmid = {7461918}, issn = {0377-0168}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Birds/*microbiology ; Salmonella/drug effects/*isolation &amp; purification ; Serotyping ; }, abstract = {The occurrence of salmonellae in a variety of free-flying birds was investigated. Of 790 intestinal-content-samples examined, 20 yielded different Salmonella serotypes, which included 10 strains of S. saint-paul, 4 of S. bareilly, 3 of S. weltevreden, 2 of S. typhimurium and 1 of Salmonella E1 group. Common Mynah, house-sparrow, swallow, grey-partridge, parrot and crow were found positive for the presence of salmonellae. Antibiogram of the isolates was studied against 14 common chemotherapeutic agents.}, }
@article {pmid7427819, year = {1980}, author = {Wong, PL and Poon, SK and Anderson, RC}, title = {New records of nematodes in the house crow (Corvus splendens Vieillot) in Asia.}, journal = {Canadian journal of zoology}, volume = {58}, number = {6}, pages = {1212-1213}, doi = {10.1139/z80-169}, pmid = {7427819}, issn = {0008-4301}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*parasitology ; Female ; Malaysia ; Male ; Nematoda/*classification ; }, }
@article {pmid7402850, year = {1980}, author = {Panek, PE and Stoner, SB}, title = {Age differences on Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {50|3 Pt 1}, number = {}, pages = {977-978}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1980.50.3.977}, pmid = {7402850}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; *Aging ; *Color Perception ; Female ; *Form Perception ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices was administered to 150 subjects (75 males, 75 females) ranging in age from 20 to 86 yr. Subjects were placed into one of three age groups: adult (M age = 27.04 yr.), middle-age (M age = 53.36 yr.), old (M age = 73.78 yr.), with 25 males and 25 females in each age group. Significant differences between age groups on the matrices were obtained after partialing out the effects of educational level, while sex of subject was not significant.}, }
@article {pmid7393850, year = {1980}, author = {Granath, WO}, title = {Fat of the wild avian filarial nematode Chandlerella quiscali (Onchocercidae: Filarioidea) in the domestic chicken.}, journal = {Poultry science}, volume = {59}, number = {5}, pages = {996-1000}, doi = {10.3382/ps.0590996}, pmid = {7393850}, issn = {0032-5791}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Chickens/*microbiology ; Filariasis/parasitology/veterinary ; Filarioidea/*pathogenicity ; Poultry Diseases/*microbiology ; }, abstract = {Chandlerella quiscali is a filarial nematode parasitizing the brain of the common grackle (Quiscalus quiscula versicolor), blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata bromia), brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater ater), and starling (Sturnus vulgaris). Filarial infections of many wild bird species are common but natural infections of domestic fowl are rare. The habits of many wild birds commonly bring them in close association with domestic poultry. Because of the high prevalence of C. quiscali in grackles (98%) and the pathogenesis it might cause in an unnatural host, this parasite was used to test the receptiveness of the domestic chicken as a host. Microfilariae of C. quiscali were injected into chickens and adult worms were transplanted into the brain or body cavity of other chickens. One group of experimental chickens was immunosuppressed (IS) while another group was not immunosuppressed (NIS). Microfilariae circulated in the blood of IS and NIS chickens for at least 56 days. There was no significant difference in the number of microfilariae recovered from IS and NIS chickens. Adult worms were encapsulated in the brain of NIS chickens and in the body cavity of IS and NIS chickens. Worms survived for 36 hr in the brains of IS chickens. Past 36 hr the worms were shriveled and dead, apparently the result of a physiological and/or nutritional deficiency in the brain.}, }
@article {pmid7372836, year = {1980}, author = {Kish, GB and Hagen, JM and Woody, MM and Harvey, HL}, title = {Alcoholics' recovery from cerebral impairment as a function of duration of abstinence.}, journal = {Journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {36}, number = {2}, pages = {584-589}, doi = {10.1002/jclp.6120360234}, pmid = {7372836}, issn = {0021-9762}, mesh = {*Alcohol Drinking ; Alcoholism/psychology/*rehabilitation ; Cognition Disorders/*chemically induced/psychology ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Psychological Tests ; }, abstract = {There is clear evidence in the literature for permanent cerebral impairment due to prolonged alcohol abuse. Observation also suggests that there is a component of this cerebral impairment that is found immediately subsequent to heavy drinking and that is reversible. This study examined the time-course of recovery from this temporary impairment and delineated more specifically the neuropsychological functions that participate in the recovery. Four groups (N = 87) of hospitalized male alcoholics were tested after 6, 15, 21, and 110 days of abstinence using the Raven Progressive Matrices, the Trail-Making Test, the Memory for Designs, and the following subscales of the WAIS: Arithmetic, Digit Span, Block Design, Similarities, and Digit Symbol. The results indicated that significant improvement occurred during the third week of abstinence (between 15 and 21 days) on the Digit Span, Block Design, Similarities, Memory for Designs, Raven, and Trail-Making tests, but not on the Arithmetic and Digit Symbol tests. These results suggest that treatment programs that use a preliminary "drying-out" period should consider lengthening this period to 3 weeks to insure that patients are maximally responsive to psychotherapy.}, }
@article {pmid7403950, year = {1980}, author = {Singh, M and Sinniah, B}, title = {A new record of Platynosomum proxilliciens in Malaysian crows (Trematoda: Dicrocoeliidae).}, journal = {The Southeast Asian journal of tropical medicine and public health}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {148}, pmid = {7403950}, issn = {0125-1562}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*parasitology ; Malaysia ; Species Specificity ; Trematoda/*anatomy &amp; histology/classification ; }, }
@article {pmid7352314, year = {1980}, author = {Petropoulos, PC}, title = {Early results of simplified proximal high selective transgastric vagotomy without drainage.}, journal = {Surgery, gynecology &amp; obstetrics}, volume = {150}, number = {2}, pages = {219-225}, pmid = {7352314}, issn = {0039-6087}, mesh = {Adult ; *Drainage ; Duodenal Ulcer/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Postoperative Complications ; Recurrence ; Stomach/*innervation ; Vagotomy/*methods ; }, abstract = {The technique of preservation of the antral vagal nerve supply of the stomach and division of the transverse gastric branches of the nerves of Latarjet remains unchanged. However, if the evidence suggests that there is an ascending branch of the vagus crow's foot extending to the gastric body, this branch should be transmurally divided at the level in which it reaches the acid secreting boundary. Transection of the hiatal cardioesophageal vagus nerve branches as well as of the nerve branches accompanying the arteries entering the fundus of the stomach is replaced by transgastric intramural transection and excision of all nerve fibers entering the fundus of the stomach. Six months to one year results after the application of proximal transgastric vagotomy in 51 patients with uncomplicated duodenal ulcers have shown no mortality and insignificant morbidity. The previous ulcer symptoms disappeared. Dumping syndrome, recurrent ulcer and other signigicant complications have not been observed.}, }
@article {pmid7352162, year = {1980}, author = {Aston, SJ}, title = {Orbicularis oculi muscle flaps: a technique to reduce crows feet and lateral canthal skin folds.}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {65}, number = {2}, pages = {206-216}, pmid = {7352162}, issn = {0032-1052}, mesh = {Aged ; Face/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Oculomotor Muscles/*surgery ; Surgery, Plastic/*methods ; }, abstract = {Flaps of the lateral orbital portion of the orbicularis oculi muscle splayed out and sutured under tension help smooth skin folds and reduce wrinkles in the lateral canthal area.}, }
@article {pmid7471815, year = {1980}, author = {Mittal, OP and Sakhuja, S}, title = {Bone marrow chromosomes in Corvus species (Corvidae: Passeriformes: Aves).}, journal = {Cytobios}, volume = {29}, number = {114}, pages = {81-89}, pmid = {7471815}, issn = {0011-4529}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Bone Marrow/*ultrastructure ; Centromere/ultrastructure ; Chromosomes/*ultrastructure ; Female ; Karyotyping ; Male ; }, abstract = {The diploid number of 80 +/- chromosomes has been established for two species of Indian crows, viz. Corvus splendens splendens Viellot, and Corvus macrorhynchus culminatus Sykes. In addition to the usual macro- and microchromosomes, there exist certain elements in both cases, falling in between the two different size categories of chromosomes. The number of these medium-sized, and of the macrochromosomes, was found to be 6 and 14, respectively, in both species. All chromosomes included in these two categories depict the clear position of their centromeres, while in the microchromosomes the centromeric position is not distinct. The sex-chromosome mechanism which has been studied only in Corvus splendens splendens, is of the ZZ and ZW type in the male and female, respectively.}, }
@article {pmid11610644, year = {1979}, author = {Gregg, JB and Gregg, PS}, title = {The postmortem on Crow Creek.}, journal = {Paleopathology newsletter}, volume = {}, number = {27}, pages = {4-8}, pmid = {11610644}, issn = {2159-2292}, mesh = {History, Early Modern 1451-1600 ; History, Modern 1601- ; Paleopathology/*history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid10244599, year = {1979}, author = {Tayler, W}, title = {Dear Ivor...: Having spent my last four years in the NHS working for the mentally handicapped.}, journal = {Health and social service journal}, volume = {89}, number = {4650}, pages = {864-865}, pmid = {10244599}, issn = {0300-8347}, mesh = {Humans ; Institutionalization ; Mental Health Services/*standards ; *Patient Advocacy ; Professional-Patient Relations ; State Medicine ; United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {An administrator who has been promoted out of the field of mental handicap writes an open letter to one of his recent patients in the mental handicap sector of Brentry Hospital. Aware of the deficiencies of the 1959 Mental Health Act and with deep reservations about any real improvements resulting from the Jay committee's recommendations, Winston Tayler, states the case, as he sees it, for the mentally handicapped.}, }
@article {pmid10241731, year = {1979}, author = {Harbert, W and Allen, P and Hayes, T and Mellor, P}, title = {In the bold footsteps of Jay--the professions now reply.}, journal = {Health and social service journal}, volume = {89}, number = {4635}, pages = {348-349}, pmid = {10241731}, issn = {0300-8347}, mesh = {Attitude of Health Personnel ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*rehabilitation ; Mental Health Services/*organization &amp; administration ; Residential Facilities/*organization &amp; administration ; United Kingdom ; Workforce ; }, }
@article {pmid12277533, year = {1976}, author = {}, title = {Korea: household distribution program resulted in one-third increase in effective method use.}, journal = {International family planning digest}, volume = {2}, number = {3}, pages = {5-7}, pmid = {12277533}, issn = {0362-4056}, mesh = {Asia ; Community Health Workers/education ; Contraception Behavior ; Contraceptive Devices, Male ; Contraceptives, Oral ; *Cost-Benefit Analysis ; Costs and Cost Analysis ; *Delivery of Health Care ; Developing Countries ; *Evaluation Studies as Topic ; Family Planning Services ; Asia, Eastern ; Female ; Health Personnel ; *Health Planning ; Humans ; Intrauterine Devices ; Korea ; Male ; Marketing of Health Services ; Organization and Administration ; Rural Population ; Sex Education ; }, }
@article {pmid14298163, year = {1965}, author = {SKIBBA, CA}, title = {JAY JACOBY, M.D.}, journal = {Marquette medical review}, volume = {31}, number = {}, pages = {151-152}, pmid = {14298163}, mesh = {*Anesthesiology ; *History ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid14345015, year = {1965}, author = {SOTNIKOVA, AN and SOLDATOV, GM}, title = {[ISOLATION OF TICK-BORNE ENCEPHALITIS VIRUS FROM JAYS].}, journal = {Meditsinskaia parazitologiia i parazitarnye bolezni}, volume = {34}, number = {}, pages = {114-115}, pmid = {14345015}, issn = {0025-8326}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Encephalitis Viruses ; *Encephalitis Viruses, Tick-Borne ; }, }
@article {pmid14234794, year = {1964}, author = {COHEN, JO and SMITH, PB}, title = {SEROLOGICAL TYPING OF STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS. II. TYPING BY SLIDE AGGLUTINATION AND COMPARISON WITH PHAGE TYPING.}, journal = {Journal of bacteriology}, volume = {88}, number = {5}, pages = {1364-1371}, pmid = {14234794}, issn = {0021-9193}, mesh = {*Agglutination ; *Bacteriological Techniques ; *Bacteriophage Typing ; *Hemagglutination ; Rabbits ; *Research ; *Serology ; *Staphylococcal Infections ; *Staphylococcus ; *Staphylococcus Phages ; *Staphylococcus aureus ; }, abstract = {Cohen, Jay O. (Communicable Disease Center, Atlanta, Ga.), and P. B. Smith. Serological typing of Staphylococcus aureus. II. Typing by slide agglutination and comparison with phage typing. J. Bacteriol 88:1364-1371. 1964.-Over 700 cultures were typed by both antisera and phages; 15 serotypes accounted for 481 of the cultures. The i factor was found predominantly in phage group II strains, and the n factor was found in group III, whereas the c(1) factor was found in both groups II and III. Factors h, k, and m were found predominantly in groups I and II. Strains of phage type 80/81 were somewhat heterogeneous serologically. When cultures were typed by both phages and antisera, more definitive characterization was possible than with either method alone. Closely related cultures usually exhibited the same serotype and phage type. Phage-nontypable strains were usually typable by serology. A total of 60 different serotypes were observed among 183 phage-nontypable strains.}, }
@article {pmid14231170, year = {1964}, author = {CLARK, GW}, title = {FREQUENCY OF INFECTION AND SEASONAL VARIATION OF LEUCOCYTOZOON BERESTNEFFI IN THE YELLOW-BILLED MAGPIE, PICA NUTTALLI.}, journal = {The Journal of protozoology}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {481-484}, doi = {10.1111/j.1550-7408.1964.tb01783.x}, pmid = {14231170}, issn = {0022-3921}, mesh = {Animals ; *Apicomplexa ; *Bird Diseases ; *Pica ; *Protozoan Infections ; *Research ; *Seasons ; }, }
@article {pmid14231114, year = {1964}, author = {SOKOLOFF, L}, title = {IN MEMORIAM: JOSEPH JAY BUNIM.}, journal = {Journal of chronic diseases}, volume = {17}, number = {}, pages = {891-892}, doi = {10.1016/0021-9681(64)90110-9}, pmid = {14231114}, issn = {0021-9681}, mesh = {*Arthritis ; History, 20th Century ; *Medicine ; *Rheumatic Diseases ; }, }
@article {pmid14229587, year = {1964}, author = {KELLGREN, JH}, title = {JOSEPH JAY BUNIM, 1906-1964.}, journal = {Annals of the rheumatic diseases}, volume = {23}, number = {6}, pages = {510-511}, doi = {10.1136/ard.23.6.510}, pmid = {14229587}, issn = {0003-4967}, mesh = {*History, 20th Century ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid14219046, year = {1964}, author = {BECK, JV and SHAFIA, FM}, title = {EFFECT OF PHOSPHATE ION AND 2,4-DINITROPEHENOL ON THE ACTIVITY OF INTACT CELLS OF THIOBACILLUS FERROOXIDANS.}, journal = {Journal of bacteriology}, volume = {88}, number = {4}, pages = {850-857}, pmid = {14219046}, issn = {0021-9193}, mesh = {*2,4-Dinitrophenol ; *Acidithiobacillus ; *Carbon Dioxide ; *Dinitrophenols ; *Electron Transport ; Iron/*metabolism ; *Metabolism ; *Oxidation-Reduction ; *Pharmacology ; *Phosphates ; *Research ; *Sulfur ; *Thiobacillus ; Utah ; }, abstract = {Beck, Jay V. (Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah), and Fred M. Shafia. Effect of phosphate ion and 2,4-dinitrophenol on the activity of cell suspensions of Thiobacillus ferrooxidans. J. Bacteriol. 88:850-857. 1964.-The rate of oxidation of ferrous salts or elemental sulfur by aged cell suspensions, phosphate-depleted cells, or 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP)-treated cells of Thiobacillus ferrooxidans was increased by addition of orthophosphate salts. The effect was found to be transitory, with the rate gradually approaching that observed prior to phosphate ion addition. The total increased oxygen uptake was observed to be roughly proportional to the amount of phosphate salt added. The efficiency of CO(2) fixation accompanying oxidation of ferrous salts was found to be about 1.7 mumoles of CO(2) fixed per 100 mumoles of O(2) absorbed, in contrast to a value of about 8.0 mumoles of CO(2) fixed per 100 mumoles of O(2) uptake during sulfur oxidation. The rate of oxidation did not affect the CO(2) fixation efficiency. Whereas addition of phosphate salts to aged or phosphate-depleted cells increased slightly the already high efficiency of CO(2) fixation, it did not affect the complete inhibition of CO(2) fixation observed in the presence of 10(-5)m DNP. The results indicate that the phosphate ion is essential for oxidation of the ferrous ion, and that dinitrophenol and other so-called upcoupling agents interfere with phosphate metabolism. The latter may be a result of action at the site of assimilation of the ferrous ion or it may be an effect on the electron-transport system. In any event, it seems obvious that the phosphate ion is converted into a nonactive form in the presence of dinitrophenol-treated cells, because additional quantities of orthophosphate salts cause an immediate, marked restoration of oxidative activity.}, }
@article {pmid14212948, year = {1964}, author = {MCEWEN, C}, title = {JOSEPH JAY BUNIM, 1906-1964, IN MEMORIAM.}, journal = {Arthritis and rheumatism}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {542-544}, doi = {10.1002/art.1780070510}, pmid = {14212948}, issn = {0004-3591}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; *Medicine ; *Rheumatic Diseases ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid14225864, year = {1964}, author = {RECHICHI, M and POZZI, O}, title = {[ON SOME ASPECTS OF THE RESPONSES TO RAVEN'S PROGRESSIVE MATRICES '38 IN SCHIZOPHRENICS].}, journal = {Acta neurologica}, volume = {19}, number = {}, pages = {747-748}, pmid = {14225864}, issn = {0001-6276}, mesh = {Humans ; *Psychological Tests ; *Schizophrenia ; }, }
@article {pmid14197871, year = {1964}, author = {WOLK, RL and RUSTIN, SL}, title = {PSYCHOLOGIC EVALUATION OF A GERONTOLOGIC POPULATION: COMPARISON OF RESULTS WITH THE RAVEN PROGRESSIVE MATRICES (1947) VERSUS THE WECHSLER ADULT INTELLIGENCE SCALE.}, journal = {Journal of the American Geriatrics Society}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {807-809}, doi = {10.1111/j.1532-5415.1964.tb05031.x}, pmid = {14197871}, issn = {0002-8614}, mesh = {Adult ; *Geriatrics ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Psychology, Clinical ; *Wechsler Scales ; }, }
@article {pmid14177653, year = {1964}, author = {EVANS, RB and MARMORSTON, J}, title = {SCORING RAVEN'S COLOURED PROGRESSIVE MATRICES TO DIFFERENTIATE BRAIN DAMAGE.}, journal = {Journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {20}, number = {}, pages = {360-364}, doi = {10.1002/1097-4679(196407)20:3&lt;360::aid-jclp2270200312&gt;3.0.co;2-e}, pmid = {14177653}, issn = {0021-9762}, mesh = {*Arteriosclerosis ; *Brain ; *Brain Diseases ; *Geriatrics ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; *Intracranial Embolism ; *Myocardial Infarction ; *Psychological Tests ; Thrombosis ; }, }
@article {pmid14188704, year = {1964}, author = {GREGORY, KF and HUANG, JC}, title = {TYROSINASE INHERITANCE IN STREPTOMYCES SCABIES. II. INDUCTION OF TYROSINASE DEFICIENCY BY ACRIDINE DYES.}, journal = {Journal of bacteriology}, volume = {87}, number = {6}, pages = {1287-1294}, pmid = {14188704}, issn = {0021-9193}, mesh = {*Acridines ; *Acriflavine ; Canada ; *Coloring Agents ; *Genetics ; Half-Life ; *Monophenol Monooxygenase ; *Mutation ; *Pharmacology ; *Phenotype ; *Research ; *Scabies ; *Streptomyces ; *Tyrosine Decarboxylase ; }, abstract = {Gregory, Kenneth F. (Ontario Agricultural College, Guelph, Ontario, Canada), and Jay C. C. Huang. Tyrosinase inheritance in Streptomyces scabies. II. Induction of tyrosinase deficiency by acridine dyes. J. Bacteriol. 87:1287-1294. 1964.-Growth in minimal medium containing 1 mug of acriflavine per ml resulted in a large increase (up to 62%) in the frequency of tyrosinase-deficient (tye(-)) mutants in all of ten strains of Streptomyces scabies and eight unidentified streptomycetes studied. This increased frequency did not result from the selection of preformed mutants, since tye(-) clones were usually inhibited by lower concentrations of acriflavine than were tyrosinase-producing (tye(+)) clones, and no significant difference in mycelial yields occurred between the two types growing in a 1 mug/ml concentration of the dye. The mutations induced by X rays and acriflavine were either allelic or closely linked. This tye(-) phenotype was not caused by the production of an enzyme inhibitor, lack of a cofactor, or defect in the conversion of a protyrosinase to tyrosinase. Tye(-) mutants formed no detectable tyrosinase under a variety of conditions, including the presence of possible inducers. Mutants were able to oxidize glucose and succinate. The S. scabies tyrosinase was heat-labile (half-life at 59 C = 1.6 min) and not particle-bound. We conclude that acriflavine induces the loss of, or alteration in, a structural gene for tyrosinase production present as an extrachromosomal factor.}, }
@article {pmid14188703, year = {1964}, author = {GREGORY, KF and HUANG, JC}, title = {TYROSINASE INHERITANCE IN STREPTOMYCES SCABIES. I. GENETIC RECOMBINATION.}, journal = {Journal of bacteriology}, volume = {87}, number = {6}, pages = {1281-1286}, pmid = {14188703}, issn = {0021-9193}, mesh = {Canada ; *Genetics ; *Monophenol Monooxygenase ; *Recombination, Genetic ; *Research ; *Scabies ; *Spores, Bacterial ; *Streptomyces ; *Tyrosine Decarboxylase ; }, abstract = {Gregory, Kenneth F. (Ontario Agricultural College, Guelph, Ontario, Canada), and Jay C. C. Huang. Tyrosinase inheritance in Streptomyces scabies. I. Genetic recombination. J. Bacteriol. 87:1281-1286. 1964.-Mutants derived from Streptomyces scabies strain A26 recombined with other derivatives of A26, but not with nine other strains of S. scabies nor with eight strains of other streptomycetes. Most of the spore progeny of heterogenomic mycelia formed from complementary diauxotrophic strains of S. scabies A26 were capable of forming tyrosinase (tye(+)), provided either of the parents was tye(+). About 99.8% of these spores carried the nutritional markers of either one or the other of the two parents. All recombinant classes between nutritional and streptomycin susceptibility markers were like-wise predominantly tye(+). We suggest that the tye(+) characteristic is carried in a small genetic unit, which is unlinked to most other genes and capable of replicating faster than the rest of the S. scabies genome.}, }
@article {pmid14126859, year = {1964}, author = {WALDHALM, DG and MASON, DR and MEINERSHAGEN, WA and SCRIVNER, LH}, title = {MAGPIES AS CARRIERS OF OVINE VIBRIO FETUS.}, journal = {Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association}, volume = {144}, number = {}, pages = {497-500}, pmid = {14126859}, issn = {0003-1488}, mesh = {*Abortion, Veterinary ; Animals ; *Birds ; *Campylobacter fetus ; *Epidemiology ; Female ; Pregnancy ; *Research ; Sheep ; *Sheep Diseases ; *Vibrio ; }, }
@article {pmid14346939, year = {1964}, author = {RUTKOWSKA, M}, title = {[PRELIMINARY DATA CONCERNING HELMINTHOFAUNA OF CORVIDAE].}, journal = {Wiadomosci parazytologiczne}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {561-562}, pmid = {14346939}, issn = {0043-5163}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bird Diseases ; *Epidemiology ; *Helminthiasis ; Poland ; }, }
@article {pmid14161265, year = {1964}, author = {SHEPARD, P}, title = {THE CORVIDEAN MILLENNIUM; OR, LETTER FROM AN OLD CROW.}, journal = {Perspectives in biology and medicine}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {331-342}, doi = {10.1353/pbm.1964.0037}, pmid = {14161265}, issn = {0031-5982}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior ; *Birds ; *Crows ; *Culture ; *Ecology ; }, }
@article {pmid14051209, year = {1963}, author = {HERON, WT}, title = {CROWS AND PIGEONS AND PSYCHOTHERAPY.}, journal = {The American journal of clinical hypnosis}, volume = {6}, number = {}, pages = {85-91}, doi = {10.1080/00029157.1963.10402328}, pmid = {14051209}, issn = {0002-9157}, mesh = {Animals ; *Anxiety ; *Birds ; Child ; *Columbidae ; *Crows ; *Fear ; Humans ; *Hypnosis ; *Interpersonal Relations ; *Psychotherapy ; *Punishment ; *Reinforcement, Psychology ; }, }
@article {pmid14088852, year = {1963}, author = {SKVRNOVA, E}, title = {[ATTACK ON A CHILD BY A JACKDAW].}, journal = {Ceskoslovenska pediatrie}, volume = {18}, number = {}, pages = {828-829}, pmid = {14088852}, issn = {0069-2328}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Birds ; Child ; *Crows ; *Facial Injuries ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; *Social Behavior ; }, }
@article {pmid14066426, year = {1963}, author = {HAMMEL, JM and ZIMMERMAN, LN}, title = {GROWTH STIMULATION OF STREPTOCOCCUS FAECALIS VAR. LIQUEFACIENS BY CANAVANINE.}, journal = {Journal of bacteriology}, volume = {86}, number = {3}, pages = {490-493}, pmid = {14066426}, issn = {0021-9193}, mesh = {*Arginine ; *Bacteriological Techniques ; *Canavanine ; *Enterococcus faecalis ; *Hydrolases ; *Research ; }, abstract = {Hammel, Jay M. (The Pennsylvania State University, University Park) and L. N. Zimmerman. Growth stimulation of Streptococcus faecalis var. liquefaciens by canavanine. J. Bacteriol. 86:490-493. 1963.-l-Canavanine, a competitive inhibitor of arginine, was found to stimulate the growth of Streptococcus faecalis var. liquefaciens in the presence of arginine. This growth stimulation by canavanine was unique, since it previously was found to inhibit the growth of organisms which require arginine. When equimolar concentrations of arginine and canavanine were tested from 10(-7) to 10(-2)m, maximal stimulation occurred at 10(-4)m. Canavanine concentrations of 5 x 10(-6)m to 10(-2)m stimulated growth in the presence of 5 x 10(-5)m arginine. Ornithine similarly stimulated growth. Canavanine inhibited the rate of arginine degradation by the arginine dihydrolase enzyme system in intact cells. It is assumed that the mechanism of canavanine stimulation involves an inhibition of arginine desimidase of the arginine dihydrolase enzyme system, which in turn makes more arginine available for growth over a longer period of time.}, }
@article {pmid14022057, year = {1962}, author = {COHEN, JO and OEDING, P}, title = {Serological typing of staphylococci by means of fluorescent antibodies. I. Development of specific reagents for seven serological factors.}, journal = {Journal of bacteriology}, volume = {84}, number = {4}, pages = {735-741}, pmid = {14022057}, issn = {0021-9193}, mesh = {*Agglutination Tests ; *Fluorescence ; *Fluorescent Antibody Technique ; *Indicators and Reagents ; *Staining and Labeling ; *Staphylococcus ; }, abstract = {Cohen, Jay O. (Communicable Disease Center, Atlanta, Ga.) and Per Oeding. Serological typing of staphylococci by means of fluorescent antibodies. I. Development of specific reagents for seven serological factors. J. Bacteriol. 84:735-741. 1962-Fluorescent antibody reagents for identifying seven antigenic factors of staphylococci have been prepared. The fluorescent staining reactions of these reagents were compared to the agglutination reactions with diagnostic cultures of coagulase-positive staphylococci. Correlation between the two serological tests was almost complete with factors a, b, i, and k. The c fluorescent antibody reagent had a somewhat broader spectrum of activity than the corresponding agglutination serum, whereas the m fluorescent antibody reagent stained fewer strains than were agglutinated in m serum. The fluorescent antibody reagent for h factor stained strains possessing h(1) factor but not strains possessing only h(2) factor. Fluorescent antibody reagents for specific staphylococcal factors did not stain strains of group A streptococci.}, }
@article {pmid13980735, year = {1962}, author = {TESI, G and BOUTOURLINE YOUNG, H}, title = {A standardization of Raven's Progressive Matrices 1938 (Revised Order 1956).}, journal = {Archivio di psicologia, neurologia e psichiatria}, volume = {23}, number = {}, pages = {455-464}, pmid = {13980735}, issn = {0004-0150}, mesh = {Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Reference Standards ; }, }
@article {pmid13890851, year = {1961}, author = {ESTES, BW and CURTIN, ME and DEBURGER, RA and DENNY, C}, title = {Relationships between 1960 Stanford-Binet, 1937 Stanford-Binet, WISC, Raven, and Draw-A-Man.}, journal = {Journal of consulting psychology}, volume = {25}, number = {}, pages = {388-391}, doi = {10.1037/h0043383}, pmid = {13890851}, issn = {0095-8891}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Projective Techniques ; }, }
@article {pmid13694390, year = {1961}, author = {COHEN, JO and COWART, GS and CHERRY, WB}, title = {Antibodies against Staphylococcus aureus in nonimmunized rabbits.}, journal = {Journal of bacteriology}, volume = {82}, number = {1}, pages = {110-114}, pmid = {13694390}, issn = {0021-9193}, mesh = {Animals ; *Coagulase ; Rabbits ; *Staphylococcal Infections ; Staphylococcus/*immunology ; *Staphylococcus aureus ; }, abstract = {Cohen, Jay O. (Communicable Disease Center, Atlanta, Ga.), Glenda S. Cowart, and William B. Cherry. Antibodies against Staphylococcus aureus in nonimmunized rabbits. J. Bacteriol. 82:110-114. 1961.-Antibody against staphylococci was demonstrated in the serum of each of 36 nonimmunized specific-pathogen-free rabbits that were tested. Evidence obtained is in agreement with the proposition that two distinct staphylococcal antibodies are present in the sera from these nonimmunized rabbits. One is responsible for agglutination of Staphylococcus aureus Cowan serotype I, and the other for the formation of a reaction line observed in Ouchterlony plates with soluble antigens of both Cowan serotype I and Cowan serotype III. Fluorescent antibody reagent prepared from preimmune rabbit serum stained some strains of coagulase positive staphylococci, including Cowan's types I and III, and failed to stain any of 14 coagulase negative strains. The sera of rabbits obtained from a commercial source were shown to contain other antibodies for staphylococci in addition to the two found in the sera of specific-pathogen-free rabbits. The data suggested that rabbits from commercial sources have had contact with a great variety of antigens capable of stimulating staphylococcal antibody.Evidence demonstrated that normal rabbit serum from specific-pathogen-free animals of our colony could be used for differentiation of certain staphylococcal strains.}, }
@article {pmid13790541, year = {1961}, author = {JONES, J}, title = {Description of Splendidofilaria flexivaginalis n. sp. (Nematoda: Onchocercidae) from the Eastern crow, and key to species of the genus Splendidofilaria skrjabin.}, journal = {The Journal of parasitology}, volume = {47}, number = {}, pages = {437-440}, pmid = {13790541}, issn = {0022-3395}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*parasitology ; *Crows ; *Filarioidea ; *Nematoda ; }, }
@article {pmid13742964, year = {1961}, author = {ROMAGNA, BM}, title = {[Study of correlations between Wechsler's intellectual efficiency scale for children and Raven's 1947 progressive matrices].}, journal = {Rassegna di studi psichiatrici}, volume = {50}, number = {}, pages = {46-54}, pmid = {13742964}, issn = {0033-9636}, mesh = {Child ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; *Psychology, Child ; }, }
@article {pmid13695638, year = {1961}, author = {CORRADETTI, A and ILARDI, A}, title = {[A strain of Plasmodium elongatum in the gray crow (Corvus cornix)].}, journal = {Rendiconti - Istituto superiore di sanita}, volume = {24}, number = {}, pages = {115-118}, pmid = {13695638}, issn = {0370-5811}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*parasitology ; *Crows ; *Plasmodium ; }, }
@article {pmid13840477, year = {1960}, author = {URMER, AH and MORRIS, AB and WENDLAND, LV}, title = {The effect of brain damage on Raven's Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {16}, number = {}, pages = {182-185}, doi = {10.1002/1097-4679(196004)16:2&lt;182::aid-jclp2270160218&gt;3.0.co;2-a}, pmid = {13840477}, issn = {0021-9762}, mesh = {*Brain ; *Brain Diseases ; *Brain Injuries ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; }, }
@article {pmid13852329, year = {1959}, author = {HILDES, JA and WHALEY, R and WHALEY, H and IRVING, L}, title = {Old Crow-a healthy Indian community.}, journal = {Canadian Medical Association journal}, volume = {81}, number = {10}, pages = {837-841}, pmid = {13852329}, issn = {0008-4409}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cold Temperature ; *Crows ; *Health Surveys ; Humans ; *Indians, North American ; *Public Health ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid13611074, year = {1959}, author = {COSTELLO, CG}, title = {Aphasic cerebral palsied children's wrong answers on Raven's Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {76-77}, doi = {10.1002/1097-4679(195901)15:1&lt;76::aid-jclp2270150123&gt;3.0.co;2-p}, pmid = {13611074}, issn = {0021-9762}, mesh = {*Aphasia ; Cerebral Palsy/*psychology ; Child ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; *Psychological Tests ; }, }
@article {pmid13611106, year = {1958}, author = {HIGGINS, C and SIVERS, CH}, title = {A comparison of Stanford-Binet and Colored Raven Progressive Matrices IQs for children with low socioeconomic status.}, journal = {Journal of consulting psychology}, volume = {22}, number = {6}, pages = {465-468}, doi = {10.1037/h0046808}, pmid = {13611106}, issn = {0095-8891}, mesh = {Child ; *Environment ; Humans ; *Income ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Psychological Tests ; *Social Class ; }, }
@article {pmid13587946, year = {1958}, author = {BURKE, HR}, title = {Raven's progressive matrices: a review and critical evaluation.}, journal = {The Journal of genetic psychology}, volume = {93}, number = {2}, pages = {199-228}, doi = {10.1080/00221325.1958.10532420}, pmid = {13587946}, issn = {0022-1325}, mesh = {Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; *Psychological Tests ; }, }
@article {pmid13575803, year = {1958}, author = {DAVIES, JB}, title = {On some trematode parasites from the jackdaw, Corvus monedula in Britian.}, journal = {Journal of helminthology}, volume = {32}, number = {1-2}, pages = {33-44}, doi = {10.1017/s0022149x00019325}, pmid = {13575803}, issn = {0022-149X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; *Parasites ; *Trematoda ; }, }
@article {pmid13499238, year = {1958}, author = {SANGER, R}, title = {The P and Jay systems of blood groups.}, journal = {Bibliotheca haematologica}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {110-113}, doi = {10.1159/000427068}, pmid = {13499238}, issn = {0067-7957}, mesh = {*Blood Group Antigens ; Humans ; }, }
@article {pmid13498534, year = {1957}, author = {TIMON-DAVID, J}, title = {[Experimental development of Brachylecithum alfortense (A. Railiiet) R. Ph. Dollfus 1954, a dicrocoeliid trematode parasite of the biliary tract of magpie].}, journal = {Annales de parasitologie humaine et comparee}, volume = {32}, number = {4}, pages = {353-368}, pmid = {13498534}, issn = {0003-4150}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biliary Tract ; *Dicrocoeliidae ; *Dicrocoelium ; *Parasites ; *Trematoda ; }, }
@article {pmid13447286, year = {1957}, author = {BUSNEL, RG and GIBAN, J and GRAMET, P and FRINGS, H and FRINGS, M and JUMBER, J}, title = {[Interspecificity of acoustic signals having a semantic value for European and North American Corvidae].}, journal = {Comptes rendus hebdomadaires des seances de l'Academie des sciences}, volume = {245}, number = {1}, pages = {105-108}, pmid = {13447286}, issn = {0001-4036}, mesh = {*Acoustics ; Animals ; *Birds ; *Learning ; *Passeriformes ; *Semantics ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid13406153, year = {1957}, author = {HALL, JC}, title = {Correlation of a modified form of Raven's progressive matrices (1938) with the Wechsler adult intelligence scale.}, journal = {Journal of consulting psychology}, volume = {21}, number = {1}, pages = {23-26}, doi = {10.1037/h0041794}, pmid = {13406153}, issn = {0095-8891}, mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Psychological Tests ; *Wechsler Scales ; }, }
@article {pmid13528791, year = {1957}, author = {NISTRI, M and SFERLAZZO, R and DEVOTO, A}, title = {[Attempted electroencephalopsychotest; EEG recording during projection of the tables of the Raven Progressive Matrices combined with recording of the reaction time (auditory discrimination and motor response].}, journal = {Rivista di patologia nervosa e mentale}, volume = {78}, number = {3}, pages = {1053-1056}, pmid = {13528791}, issn = {0035-6433}, mesh = {*Auditory Perception ; *Electroencephalography ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; *Psychological Tests ; *Reaction Time ; }, }
@article {pmid13332505, year = {1956}, author = {BOYD, EM and DIMINNO, RL and NESSLINGER, C}, title = {Metazoan parasites of the blue jay, Cyanocitta cristata L.}, journal = {The Journal of parasitology}, volume = {42}, number = {3}, pages = {332-346}, pmid = {13332505}, issn = {0022-3395}, mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Parasites ; *Passeriformes ; }, }
@article {pmid13312645, year = {1956}, author = {LICHTIN, A and SCHAMBERG, IL}, title = {Jay Frank Schamberg, a pioneer in dermatologic research and chemotherapy.}, journal = {A.M.A. archives of dermatology}, volume = {73}, number = {5}, pages = {493-500}, doi = {10.1001/archderm.1956.01550050071013}, pmid = {13312645}, issn = {0096-5359}, mesh = {Dermatology/*history ; *History, 19th Century ; *History, 20th Century ; *Research ; }, }
@article {pmid13317938, year = {1956}, author = {FINLAY, P and MANWELL, RD}, title = {Toxoplasma from the crow, a new natural host.}, journal = {Experimental parasitology}, volume = {5}, number = {2}, pages = {149-153}, doi = {10.1016/0014-4894(56)90011-x}, pmid = {13317938}, issn = {0014-4894}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bird Diseases ; *Crows ; *Toxoplasma ; }, }
@article {pmid13413926, year = {1956}, author = {THREADGOLD, LT}, title = {The annual gonad cycle of the male jackdaw Corvus monedulus; quantitative aspects.}, journal = {La Cellule}, volume = {58}, number = {1}, pages = {43-54}, pmid = {13413926}, issn = {0008-8757}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Crows ; *Genitalia ; Genitalia, Male/*physiology ; *Gonads ; Male ; }, }
@article {pmid13413925, year = {1956}, author = {THREADGOLD, LT}, title = {The annual gonad cycle of the male jackdaw Corvus monedulus; qualitative aspects.}, journal = {La Cellule}, volume = {58}, number = {1}, pages = {17-42}, pmid = {13413925}, issn = {0008-8757}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Crows ; *Genitalia ; Genitalia, Male/*physiology ; *Gonads ; Male ; }, }
@article {pmid13288569, year = {1955}, author = {SANGER, R}, title = {An association between the P and Jay systems of blood groups.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {176}, number = {4494}, pages = {1163-1164}, doi = {10.1038/1761163a0}, pmid = {13288569}, issn = {0028-0836}, mesh = {*Blood Group Antigens ; Humans ; }, }
@article {pmid13263473, year = {1955}, author = {BOLIN, BJ}, title = {A comparison of Raven's progressive matrices (1938) with the ACE psychological examination and the Otis gamma mental ability test.}, journal = {Journal of consulting psychology}, volume = {19}, number = {5}, pages = {400}, doi = {10.1037/h0046235}, pmid = {13263473}, issn = {0095-8891}, mesh = {Animals ; *Aptitude Tests ; *Crows ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Mental Disorders ; *Psychological Tests ; }, }
@article {pmid13243592, year = {1955}, author = {ESSER, A}, title = {[The crow and the eye].}, journal = {Klinische Monatsblatter fur Augenheilkunde und fur augenarztliche Fortbildung}, volume = {126}, number = {4}, pages = {492-496}, pmid = {13243592}, issn = {0344-6360}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; *Eye ; *Folklore ; }, }
@article {pmid13238991, year = {1955}, author = {TIMON-DAVID, J}, title = {[Urotocus tholonetensis nov. sp. (Trematodes, Leucochloridiidae) a parasite of Fabricious' bursa of magpie].}, journal = {Annales de parasitologie humaine et comparee}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {193-201}, pmid = {13238991}, issn = {0003-4150}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Bursa, Synovial ; *Parasites ; *Trematoda ; }, }
@article {pmid13211847, year = {1955}, author = {STACEY, CL and GILL, MR}, title = {The relationship between Raven's colored progressive matrices and two tests of general intelligence for 172 subnormal adult subjects.}, journal = {Journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {86-87}, doi = {10.1002/1097-4679(195501)11:1&lt;86::aid-jclp2270110123&gt;3.0.co;2-f}, pmid = {13211847}, issn = {0021-9762}, mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; *Psychological Tests ; *Wechsler Scales ; }, }
@article {pmid13211846, year = {1955}, author = {STACEY, CL and CARLETON, FO}, title = {The relationship between Raven's colored progressive matrices and two tests of general intelligence.}, journal = {Journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {84-85}, doi = {10.1002/1097-4679(195501)11:1&lt;84::aid-jclp2270110122&gt;3.0.co;2-o}, pmid = {13211846}, issn = {0021-9762}, mesh = {Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Psychological Tests ; }, }
@article {pmid13152251, year = {1954}, author = {MARTIN, AW and WIECHERS, JE}, title = {Raven's colored progressive matrices and the Wechsler intelligence scale for children.}, journal = {Journal of consulting psychology}, volume = {18}, number = {2}, pages = {143-144}, doi = {10.1037/h0055913}, pmid = {13152251}, issn = {0095-8891}, mesh = {Animals ; Child ; *Crows ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Psychological Tests ; *Wechsler Scales ; }, }
@article {pmid13124621, year = {1954}, author = {DE LORIMIER, AA}, title = {John Jay Moore, 1888-1953.}, journal = {The American journal of roentgenology, radium therapy, and nuclear medicine}, volume = {71}, number = {2}, pages = {340-341}, pmid = {13124621}, issn = {0002-9580}, mesh = {*History, 19th Century ; *History, 20th Century ; Humans ; }, }
@article {pmid13134268, year = {1953}, author = {WORK, TH and HURLBUT, HS and TAYLOR, RM}, title = {Isolation of West Nile virus from hooded crow and rock pigeon in the Nile delta.}, journal = {Proceedings of the Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine. Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {84}, number = {3}, pages = {719-722}, doi = {10.3181/00379727-84-20764}, pmid = {13134268}, issn = {0037-9727}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Columbidae ; *Crows ; *Viruses ; *West Nile virus ; }, }
@article {pmid13097292, year = {1953}, author = {NEILAND, KA}, title = {Leucochloridium perisorisae, a new species of trematode (Leucochloridinae) from the Oregon jay, with a discussion of the application of host-parasite relationships to the taxonomy of this group.}, journal = {The Journal of parasitology}, volume = {39}, number = {5}, pages = {533-537}, pmid = {13097292}, issn = {0022-3395}, mesh = {Animals ; *Host-Parasite Interactions ; Oregon ; *Trematoda ; }, }
@article {pmid13143549, year = {1953}, author = {JOHNSON, EZ}, title = {Klopfer's prognostic scale used with Raven's progressive matrices in play therapy prognosis.}, journal = {Journal of projective techniques}, volume = {17}, number = {3}, pages = {320-326}, doi = {10.1080/08853126.1953.10380494}, pmid = {13143549}, mesh = {Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; *Play Therapy ; Prognosis ; *Projective Techniques ; *Rorschach Test ; }, }
@article {pmid13148755, year = {1953}, author = {NEEL, R and LE MINOR, L and KAWEH, M}, title = {[A new species of Salmonella isolated from the crow; S. hessarek].}, journal = {Annales de l'Institut Pasteur}, volume = {85}, number = {2}, pages = {271-274}, pmid = {13148755}, issn = {0020-2444}, mesh = {Animals ; *Antibodies ; *Antigens ; *Birds ; *Crows ; *Salmonella ; }, }
@article {pmid13050741, year = {1953}, author = {JOHNSON, EZ}, title = {The clinical use of Raven's progressive matrices to appraise potential for progress in play therapy: a study of institutionalized mentally and educationally retarded children.}, journal = {The American journal of orthopsychiatry}, volume = {23}, number = {2}, pages = {391-405}, doi = {10.1111/j.1939-0025.1953.tb00070.x}, pmid = {13050741}, issn = {0002-9432}, mesh = {Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; *Play Therapy ; *Projective Techniques ; *Psychological Tests ; }, }
@article {pmid13125104, year = {1953}, author = {TIMON-DAVID, J}, title = {[Trematodes of the magpie in Provence].}, journal = {Annales de parasitologie humaine et comparee}, volume = {28}, number = {4}, pages = {247-288}, pmid = {13125104}, issn = {0003-4150}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bird Diseases ; *Birds ; *Trematoda ; *Trematode Infections ; }, }
@article {pmid13011748, year = {1952}, author = {HOLT, RR}, title = {Interpretation of Jay's thematic apperception test.}, journal = {Journal of projective techniques}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {457-461}, pmid = {13011748}, mesh = {*Projective Techniques ; *Thematic Apperception Test ; }, }
@article {pmid13011747, year = {1952}, author = {VORHAUS, PG}, title = {Interpretation of Jay's Rorschach test.}, journal = {Journal of projective techniques}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {453-456}, pmid = {13011747}, mesh = {*Projective Techniques ; *Rorschach Test ; }, }
@article {pmid13011746, year = {1952}, author = {FINE, R}, title = {Interpretation of Jay's make-a picture-story method.}, journal = {Journal of projective techniques}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {449-453}, pmid = {13011746}, mesh = {Humans ; *Projective Techniques ; }, }
@article {pmid13011745, year = {1952}, author = {KUTASH, SB}, title = {Interpretation of Jay's Wechsler-Bellevue scale.}, journal = {Journal of projective techniques}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {445-449}, pmid = {13011745}, mesh = {*Intelligence Tests ; *Psychological Tests ; }, }
@article {pmid13011744, year = {1952}, author = {SHNEIDMAN, ES and BELL, JE and FINE, R and HOLT, RR and KUTASH, SB and VORHAUS, PG}, title = {The case of Jay: interpretations and discussion.}, journal = {Journal of projective techniques}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {444-445}, doi = {10.1080/08853126.1952.10380445}, pmid = {13011744}, mesh = {Humans ; *Projective Techniques ; }, }
@article {pmid12999345, year = {1952}, author = {FRANCO, SC}, title = {John Jay Wittmer.}, journal = {Industrial medicine &amp; surgery}, volume = {21}, number = {10}, pages = {491-495}, pmid = {12999345}, issn = {0019-8536}, mesh = {*History ; Occupational Health/*history ; }, }
@article {pmid12981183, year = {1952}, author = {JOHNSON, EZ}, title = {Sex differences and variability in the performance of retarded children on Raven, Binet and Arthur tests.}, journal = {Journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {8}, number = {3}, pages = {298-301}, doi = {10.1002/1097-4679(195207)8:3&lt;298::aid-jclp2270080314&gt;3.0.co;2-7}, pmid = {12981183}, issn = {0021-9762}, mesh = {Animals ; *Crows ; Humans ; *Psychological Tests ; *Sex Characteristics ; }, }
@article {pmid1454001, year = {1992}, author = {Horsburgh, BJ and Stark, DJ and Harrison, JD}, title = {Ocular injuries caused by magpies.}, journal = {The Medical journal of Australia}, volume = {157}, number = {11-12}, pages = {756-759}, doi = {10.5694/j.1326-5377.1992.tb141277.x}, pmid = {1454001}, issn = {0025-729X}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Animals ; Anterior Chamber/injuries ; *Birds ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Conjunctiva/injuries ; Corneal Injuries ; Eye Injuries, Penetrating/*etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Iris/injuries ; Male ; Sclera/injuries ; Vitreous Body/injuries ; }, abstract = {This paper presents a series of six patients with ocular injuries resulting from magpie attacks. Five cases involved children. In two cases the penetration was overlooked initially. In one case the keratitis was caused by Bacillus cereus. Full ophthalmic examination, including indirect ophthalmoscopy and microbiological studies, must be undertaken initially to identify unrecognised eye injuries and to prevent the possible sight-threatening complications of vitreal fibrosis with subsequent retinal detachment or endophthalmitis.}, }
@article {pmid1339982, year = {1992}, author = {Manfredi, MT and Saino, A and Genchi, C}, title = {Aprocta matronensis in crows (Corvus corone corone) from northern Italy.}, journal = {Parassitologia}, volume = {34}, number = {1-3}, pages = {97-101}, pmid = {1339982}, issn = {0048-2951}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Birds/genetics/*parasitology ; Female ; Hybridization, Genetic ; Immunity, Innate ; Italy ; Male ; Orbital Diseases/parasitology/*veterinary ; Species Specificity ; Spirurida/*isolation &amp; purification ; Spirurida Infections/parasitology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {Aprocta matronensis (Nematoda, Spirurida) has been found in the orbital cavities of carrion crows. Hooded crows and crows from the hybrid crow zone in the studied areas were not infected. The parasite population showed the typical morphology described for this species. This is the first record of A. matronensis in crows in Italy and in Corvus corone corone. Some hypotheses about the distribution of the parasites in crow populations are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid1282461, year = {1992}, author = {Rossi, A and Decchi, B and Vecchione, V}, title = {Supraspinal influences on recurrent inhibition in humans. Paralysis of descending control of Renshaw cells in patients with mental retardation.}, journal = {Electroencephalography and clinical neurophysiology}, volume = {85}, number = {6}, pages = {419-424}, doi = {10.1016/0168-5597(92)90056-h}, pmid = {1282461}, issn = {0013-4694}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Electric Stimulation/methods ; H-Reflex/physiology ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*physiopathology ; Interneurons/*physiology ; Isometric Contraction/physiology ; Motor Neurons/physiology ; Neural Inhibition/*physiology ; Paralysis/*physiopathology ; Posture/physiology ; Recurrence ; Spinal Cord/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {The recurrent inhibition of alpha motoneurons was studied in 8 mentally retarded subjects (age 16-35 years), six of whom also had non-pyramidal or extrapyramidal motor alterations, manifesting as rigid and inflexible voluntary and/or postural movements. Despite a similar degree of mental retardation (Raven spatial general intelligence test), the other 2 cases showed much more modest changes in motor behavior. At rest, recurrent inhibition on soleus motoneurons was normal in all patients. In the 6 cases exhibiting more severe motor abnormality, the changes in Renshaw cell excitability, which occur during postural or voluntary contractions in normal subjects, were not found. This expressed the lack of supraspinal influences on Renshaw cells in these patients. On the other hand, supraspinal modulating influences on Renshaw cells were virtually normal in the remaining 2 patients. The absence of excitability changes of recurrent inhibition to postural or voluntary movements is discussed in relation to the abnormality of motor behavior observed in these patients. In addition, since paralysis of adaptive changes of recurrent inhibition has so far only been described in spastic subjects, the present study demonstrates that the descending pathways, which control recurrent inhibition gain, are different from those which, when damaged, lead to spasticity. Finally, our results indicate that the changes in motor behavior often associated with mental retardation cannot be regarded merely as the consequence of defective motor learning.}, }
@article {pmid1358075, year = {1992}, author = {Davies, LP and Barlin, GB and Ireland, SJ and Ngu, MM}, title = {Substituted imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazines. New compounds with activity at central and peripheral benzodiazepine receptors.}, journal = {Biochemical pharmacology}, volume = {44}, number = {8}, pages = {1555-1561}, doi = {10.1016/0006-2952(92)90472-u}, pmid = {1358075}, issn = {0006-2952}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Anxiety Agents/*pharmacology ; Binding, Competitive ; Diazepam/pharmacology ; Flumazenil/pharmacology ; Imidazoles/*pharmacology ; Mice ; Prosencephalon/*drug effects ; Pyridazines/*pharmacology ; Rats ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; Receptors, GABA-A/*drug effects ; gamma-Aminobutyric Acid/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {A large range of substituted imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazines have been synthesized, and a number of potent ligands at central benzodiazepine (Bz) receptors on rat brain membranes have been identified in initial binding screens using [3H]diazepam. For those tested more extensively, binding studies conducted in the presence and absence of gamma-aminobutyric acid suggest that they were full receptor agonists. Some preliminary evidence was found suggesting some species selectivity, i.e. several of the compounds were more active in in vivo tests in rats than in mice. The agonist activity of these 2-phenyl (and substituted phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazines is consistent with the model of Bz receptor ligands as proposed by Fryer [Raven Press, 1983, pp. 7-20]. Several compounds were identified which had more selective activity at peripheral-type (mitochondrial) Bz binding sites. Thus, substituted imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazines represent yet another class of low molecular mass compounds which have activity at Bz receptor sites.}, }
@article {pmid1410110, year = {1992}, author = {Templer, DI and Jackson, PA}, title = {Jewish inmates: an atypical prison group.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {71}, number = {2}, pages = {513-514}, doi = {10.2466/pr0.1992.71.2.513}, pmid = {1410110}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {Antisocial Personality Disorder/diagnosis/*psychology ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Jews/*psychology ; Male ; Personality Assessment ; Prisoners/*psychology ; *Religion and Psychology ; }, abstract = {12 Jewish inmates scored significantly higher than 1497 non-Jewish inmates on a measure of intelligence, the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. Interview findings indicated that the present Jewish inmates were never very involved in the practice of Judaisn and were not strongly integrated into their local Jewish communities.}, }
@article {pmid1307180, year = {1992}, author = {Fogli, A}, title = {[Orbicularis oculi muscle and crow's feet. Pathogenesis and surgical approach].}, journal = {Annales de chirurgie plastique et esthetique}, volume = {37}, number = {5}, pages = {510-518}, pmid = {1307180}, issn = {0294-1260}, mesh = {Esthetics ; Eyelids/surgery ; Facial Muscles/anatomy &amp; histology/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; *Skin Aging ; Suture Techniques ; }, abstract = {Crow's feet is one of the characteristic signs of the aging face. Minor techniques designed to obliterate these lesions rapidly demonstrate their limits. The orbital fibers of the orbicularis oculi muscle play a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of wrinkles. Their contracture will create wrinkles in a similar way to the spokes of a wheel perpendicularly to the orientation of the muscle fibers. The dynamic action of the zygomatic muscles contributes to exaggerate these wrinkles. Statically, ptosis of the lateral brow and the aging skin also contributes to these lesions. Surgical treatment can be accomplished by a temporal lift or via a blepharoplasty approach. The vertical fibers of the orbicularis oculi muscle must be corrected by muscle incision or resection, muscle incision and suspension, muscle redraping and fixation, covering of the orbicularis oculi muscle with the malar SMAS. In patients with ptosis of the tail of the eyebrow one must either do a forehead lift or a mask-lift that will redrape the skin. The surface of the skin may require peeling by dermabrasion. Of course, these surgical techniques require a detailed knowledge of the anatomy of this region and especially the distribution of the branches of the facial nerve. The author analyses and compares the results of the different techniques.}, }
@article {pmid1502338, year = {1992}, author = {Blackburn, JR and Pfaus, JG and Phillips, AG}, title = {Dopamine functions in appetitive and defensive behaviours.}, journal = {Progress in neurobiology}, volume = {39}, number = {3}, pages = {247-279}, doi = {10.1016/0301-0082(92)90018-a}, pmid = {1502338}, issn = {0301-0082}, mesh = {Aggression/*physiology/psychology ; Animals ; Appetitive Behavior/*physiology ; Dopamine/*physiology ; Humans ; }, abstract = {The data reviewed here are compatible with the hypothesis that telencephalic dopamine activity is elicited by motivationally significant stimuli which in turn creates a neural state in which animals are more prepared to respond to significant stimuli in the environment. This analysis may be viewed as extensions of both the sensorimotor hypothesis, which depicts dopamine as potentiating the ability of stimuli to elicit responses (Clody and Carlton, 1980; Marshall et al., 1974; White, 1986) and of the incentive motivational hypothesis, which emphasizes the importance of dopamine in responding to stimuli that serve as signals of biologically significant events (Blackburn et al., 1989a; Crow, 1973; Mogenson and Phillips, 1976). In addition, we have sought to emphasize that not all responses are equally dependent upon the integrity of forebrain dopamine activity. Some responses, such as ingestion of standard foods by hungry animals, copulation, and escape, are relatively impervious to dopamine disruption. Further, once other behaviours, such as avoidance or appetitive operant responses, have been acquired, they can be maintained at an initially high rate despite perturbation of dopamine systems, although performance deteriorates with repeated testing. This analysis has emerged from the joint consideration of how both appetitive and defensive behaviours are influenced by dopamine antagonists, along with an examination of dopamine release during sequences of behaviour. The data reviewed suggest that dopamine is involved in fundamental psychological processes through which environmental stimuli come to exert control over certain aspects of behaviour. In the future, as knowledge in this field advances, there will have to be an integration of the literature on dopamine and motivation with the literature on dopamine and motor systems. We expect that dopamine release will be seen as a mechanism by which important environmental cues, of innate or learned significance, lead to a general enhancement of motor skeletal responses directed towards distal cues. We conclude with a caveat: Caution must be exercised when attempting to infer a general role of any neurotransmitter in motivated behaviour based on the study of a limited number of motivational systems. Although neurotransmitter pathways may figure prominently in the control of certain behaviours, it is incorrect to think of neurotransmitters as having a single role in behaviour. However, when comparative analyses reveal a common thread among different motivational systems, as is becoming apparent for the general role of mesotelencephalic dopamine pathways in behaviour, then the goal of generating coherent and comprehensive theory concerning a neurotransmitter's function in behaviour will begin to be realised.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid1476060, year = {1992}, author = {Nakazawa, K and Itoh, N and Shigematsu, H and Koh, CS}, title = {An autopsy case of Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome with a high level of IL-6 in the ascites. Special reference to glomerular lesions.}, journal = {Acta pathologica japonica}, volume = {42}, number = {9}, pages = {651-656}, doi = {10.1111/j.1440-1827.1992.tb03046.x}, pmid = {1476060}, issn = {0001-6632}, mesh = {Ascites/*metabolism ; Humans ; Interleukin-6/*analysis/metabolism ; Kidney Glomerulus/*chemistry/pathology ; Kidney Neoplasms/chemistry/pathology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*metabolism/pathology ; }, abstract = {A 58-year-old man developed polyneuropathy, organomegaly, gynecomastia, skin pigmentation, and multiple myeloma (IgG-lambda type). Although transient clinical improvement was obtained with prednisolone and cyclophosphamide, his general condition deteriorated progressively, and he died 3 years after onset. Lymph nodes showed angiofollicular hyperplasia, and the sural nerve revealed segmental demyelination. At autopsy, the glomeruli were enlarged and showed mild mesangial cell proliferation with segmental mesangiolysis and proliferation of endothelial cells forming abnormal vessels. The massive volume of ascites contained a high level of interleukin-6 (IL-6). IL-6, a multifunctional cytokine, may be the pathogenic factor which induces the various clinical symptoms and pathological features of Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid1414239, year = {1992}, author = {Bottini, G and Vallar, G and Cappa, S and Monza, GC and Scarpini, E and Baron, P and Cheldi, A and Scarlato, G}, title = {Oxiracetam in dementia: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study.}, journal = {Acta neurologica Scandinavica}, volume = {86}, number = {3}, pages = {237-241}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-0404.1992.tb05077.x}, pmid = {1414239}, issn = {0001-6314}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Alzheimer Disease/diagnosis/*drug therapy/psychology ; Attention/drug effects ; Dementia, Multi-Infarct/diagnosis/*drug therapy/psychology ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Recall/drug effects ; Middle Aged ; Neurologic Examination/drug effects ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving/drug effects ; Psychotropic Drugs/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Pyrrolidines/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; Reaction Time/drug effects ; }, abstract = {A multicentre, double-blind, between-patient study was carried out to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of oxiracetam (800 mg tablet), in comparison with placebo, each given twice daily for 12 weeks to patients suffering from primary degenerative, multi-infarct or mixed dementia. Efficacy was assessed by a neuropsychological battery (simple reaction time, controlled associations, short story, Raven's Progressive Matrices, token test, digit span, word list learning), administered at the beginning and at the end of the study, and by a quality of life scale, administered at entry and after 6 and 12 weeks treatment. Sixty-five patients (28 men, 37 women, mean age 71 yrs) were enrolled; 58 completed the study: 2 on oxiracetam were withdrawn because of poor tolerability, 2 (one in each group) were withdrawn for poor compliance, one (on oxiracetam) for the occurrence of a transient ischaemic attack (defined as not related to the treatment) and 2 for administrative reasons. A significantly (p < 0.01) different effect in favour of oxiracetam was observed on the quality of life scale, and confirmed by significant (defined according to the Bonferroni technique) differences in some neuropsychological tests (e.g. controlled associations, short story). Four patients in the oxiracetam group complained of a total of 5 unwanted effects, and 1 on placebo complained of 3 unwanted effects, but none of them was withdrawn from the study.}, }
@article {pmid1410181, year = {1992}, author = {Lyytinen, H and Blomberg, AP and Näätänen, R}, title = {Event-related potentials and autonomic responses to a change in unattended auditory stimuli.}, journal = {Psychophysiology}, volume = {29}, number = {5}, pages = {523-534}, doi = {10.1111/j.1469-8986.1992.tb02025.x}, pmid = {1410181}, issn = {0048-5772}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Arousal/*physiology ; Attention/*physiology ; Autonomic Nervous System/*physiology ; Cerebral Cortex/physiology ; *Electroencephalography ; Evoked Potentials, Auditory/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Pitch Discrimination/*physiology ; Problem Solving/physiology ; }, abstract = {Event-related brain potentials (ERPs) and autonomic nervous system (ANS) responses to occasional pitch and rise-time changes in a task-irrelevant auditory stimulus repeating at short intervals were measured while the subject performed a difficult intellectual task (Raven Matrices). It was found that deviant stimuli elicited the mismatch negativity (MMN) component of the ERP even when they elicited no ANS response. There was no significant difference in the mismatch negativity between trials in which the skin conductance response was or was not elicited. The pitch deviant tone also elicited heart rate deceleration, whereas the rise-time deviant tone tended to elicit a later heart rate acceleration. Neither heart rate change correlated with the mismatch negativity. The pattern of results obtained suggests that the mismatch negativity is generated by an automatic discrimination process associated with the cerebral events initiating the orienting response to stimulus change, but does not necessarily lead to the orienting response elicitation. Longer-latency ERP components tended to show slight covariation with ANS responses. The P3 was larger when a skin conductance response was elicited than when it was not elicited. Further, heart rate change trials tended to be accompanied by larger slow waves than trials with no heart rate response. Heart rate acceleration trials were accompanied by a larger slow parietal positivity and a smaller frontal negativity than were heart rate deceleration trials.}, }
@article {pmid1390188, year = {1992}, author = {Marks, R and Edwards, C}, title = {The measurement of photodamage.}, journal = {The British journal of dermatology}, volume = {127 Suppl 41}, number = {}, pages = {7-13}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2133.1992.tb16981.x}, pmid = {1390188}, issn = {0007-0963}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Elasticity ; Glucosephosphate Dehydrogenase/metabolism ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Skin/blood supply/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology ; Skin Aging/*pathology ; Sunlight/*adverse effects ; Tretinoin/therapeutic use ; Ultrasonography ; }, abstract = {The use of non-invasive and invasive techniques for the assessment of human photodamaged skin is reviewed. Physical changes during photodamage and its treatment are best scored using a visual analogue scale rather than a short, non-equal interval scale. Epidermal thickness can be measured by histometric methods but dermal thickness can be measured non-invasively using pulsed A-scan and B-scan ultrasound techniques. These approaches are not effective in detecting any changes due to photodamage. Mechanical properties of the dermis can be determined using either a static or a dynamic test mode. The authors have used extensometry to provide a measure of the laxity of skin. Replicas of the crow's foot areas have been taken before and after tretinoin treatment, and the replicas have been inspected by optical profilometry. Reductions of blood flow in photodamaged skin have been established using laser Doppler measurements, the effect being reversed by topical tretinoin. Invasive biochemical techniques have the disadvantage that they generally require large amounts of tissue. Cytochemical techniques, however, have shown increased glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity in the granular cell layer of patients with non-melanoma skin cancer, premalignant epidermal lesions, sun-damaged epidermis and artificially irradiated skin. This technique may provide an important model for the study of photodamage. It is concluded that there is no single method available to quantify the degenerative changes associated with photodamage and the effects of tretinoin.}, }
@article {pmid1644794, year = {1992}, author = {Ng, NF and Hew, CL}, title = {Structure of an antifreeze polypeptide from the sea raven. Disulfide bonds and similarity to lectin-binding proteins.}, journal = {The Journal of biological chemistry}, volume = {267}, number = {23}, pages = {16069-16075}, pmid = {1644794}, issn = {0021-9258}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Antifreeze Proteins ; Chromatography, Gel ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid ; Chromatography, Ion Exchange ; Cysteine/analysis ; Cystine/analysis ; Disulfides/*analysis ; Fishes/*blood ; Freezing ; Glycoproteins/blood/*chemistry/isolation &amp; purification ; Humans ; Lectins/*chemistry ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Peptide Fragments/isolation &amp; purification ; Protein Conformation ; Sequence Homology, Nucleic Acid ; }, abstract = {The antifreeze polypeptide (AFP) from the sea raven, Hemitripterus americanus, is a member of the cystine-rich class of blood antifreeze proteins which enable survival of certain fishes at sub-zero temperatures. Sea raven AFP contains 129 residues with 10 half-cystine residues. We have analyzed these half-cystine residues and established that all 10 of the half-cystine residues appeared to be involved in disulfide bond formation and that disulfide bonds linked Cys7 to Cys18, Cys35 to Cys125, and Cys89 to Cys117. These assignments were established by extensive proteolytic digestions of native AFP using pepsin and thermolysin and purification of the peptides by Sephadex G-15 gel filtration chromatography, anion exchange chromatography, and C18 reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography. Cystine-containing peptides were detected by a colorimetric assay using nitrothiosulfobenzoate. Disulfide-containing peptides were reduced and alkylated, purified, and analyzed by amino acid analysis. The unreduced disulfide-linked peptides were sequenced directly by automated Edman degradations to confirm the disulfide assignments. Possible arrangements of the two remaining disulfide bonds include linkages Cys69/111 to Cys100/101. The sea raven AFP shares structural similarity with pancreatic stone protein and several lectin-binding proteins, especially with respect to half-cystines, glycines, and bulky aromatic residues. Two of the disulfide linkages we determined for sea raven AFP: Cys7-Cys18 and Cys35-Cys125, are conserved in these proteins. These similarities in covalent structure suggest that the sea raven AFP, pancreatic stone protein, and several lectin-binding proteins comprise a family of proteins which may possess a common fold.}, }
@article {pmid1643621, year = {1992}, author = {Toyokuni, S and Ebina, Y and Okada, S and Yamabe, H and Ishikawa, T and Uchiyama, T and Yodoi, J and Uchino, H and Takatsuki, K}, title = {Report of a patient with POEMS/Takatsuki/Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with focal spinal pachymeningeal amyloidosis.}, journal = {Cancer}, volume = {70}, number = {4}, pages = {882-886}, doi = {10.1002/1097-0142(19920815)70:4&lt;882::aid-cncr2820700426&gt;3.0.co;2-r}, pmid = {1643621}, issn = {0008-543X}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Amyloidosis/*complications ; Autopsy ; Dura Mater ; Humans ; Male ; POEMS Syndrome/*etiology ; Sciatic Nerve/pathology ; Spinal Diseases/*complications ; Thoracic Vertebrae ; }, abstract = {The authors present the results of an autopsy of a 67-year-old Japanese man with POEMS/Takatsuki/Crow-Fukase syndrome (P/T/CFS) diagnosed in 1972. Each component of the syndrome was gradually recognized after the resection of lumbar vertebral solitary plasmacytoma in 1967. The patient died in 1989 of generalized infection and renal failure. Autopsy revealed in the vertebral canal between the fifth and seventh thoracic vertebrae dorsal pachymeningeal fibrosis, with prominent amyloid deposition that oppressed the spinal cord. This condition was consistent with the final neurologic manifestation of the patient, bilateral motor and sensory disturbance below the sixth thoracic level. Myelopathy remained clinically unnoticed because neurologic disturbance had begun as peripheral polyneuropathy. Normocellular marrow with heterogeneously scattered lambda light chain-positive plasma cells and degeneration of the myelinated fibers of sciatic nerve also were observed. This is the first report of focal spinal amyloidosis associated with P/T/CFS.}, }
@article {pmid1636595, year = {1992}, author = {Kato, T and Kaneko, E and Numano, F and Oniki, T and Hashimoto, Y and Kishi, Y and Yajima, M and Iwakami, M and Sekine, T and Maezawa, H}, title = {Vasospastic angina in Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {American heart journal}, volume = {124}, number = {2}, pages = {505-507}, doi = {10.1016/0002-8703(92)90619-7}, pmid = {1636595}, issn = {0002-8703}, mesh = {Adult ; Angina Pectoris, Variant/diagnostic imaging/*etiology ; Coronary Angiography ; Electrocardiography ; Humans ; Male ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications ; }, }
@article {pmid1326904, year = {1992}, author = {Braggio, JT and Pishkin, V}, title = {Systolic blood pressure and neuropsychological test performance of alcoholics.}, journal = {Alcoholism, clinical and experimental research}, volume = {16}, number = {4}, pages = {726-733}, doi = {10.1111/j.1530-0277.1992.tb00669.x}, pmid = {1326904}, issn = {0145-6008}, mesh = {Adult ; Alcoholism/*physiopathology/psychology/rehabilitation ; Blood Pressure/*drug effects/physiology ; Brain/physiopathology ; Concept Formation/drug effects/physiology ; Ethanol/*adverse effects ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Mental Recall/drug effects/physiology ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychomotor Performance/drug effects/physiology ; Substance Abuse Treatment Centers ; Substance-Related Disorders/*physiopathology/psychology/rehabilitation ; }, abstract = {This study examined resting systolic blood pressure (SBP) as a mediator of neuropsychological (NP) test performance in nonhypertensive alcoholics and controls. A median-split was used to assign alcoholics and controls to low and high SBP groups. Results showed that: (1) When SBP level was not considered, alcoholics only performed worse than controls on the WAIS Comprehension subtest. (2) Alcoholics and controls in the high SBP groups had fewer correct items on the WAIS Comprehension and Raven's, Set I tests than subjects in the low SBP groups. (3) Significant Diagnostic Group by SBP Group interaction was found for the Sentence Writing test. For this test only controls in the High SBP Group did worse than controls in the Low SBP Group. (4) Individual group comparisons for all NP tests showed that alcoholics in the High SBP Group were more impaired than controls in the Low SBP Group on the WAIS Comprehension, Shipley Abstraction Age and Stark Visual-Spatial tests; but alcoholics in the Low SBP Group did not differ from, or outperformed, controls in the High SBP Group on the WAIS Comprehension, Shipley Abstraction Age, Raven's, Set I, and Stark Visual-Spatial tests. These data demonstrate that both alcoholism and high SBP adversely and differentially affect the NP test performance of alcoholics and controls.}, }
@article {pmid1638329, year = {1992}, author = {Gorwood, P and Leboyer, M and d'Amato, T and Jay, M and Campion, D and Hillaire, D and Mallet, J and Feingold, J}, title = {Evidence for a pseudoautosomal locus for schizophrenia. I: A replication study using phenotype analysis.}, journal = {The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science}, volume = {161}, number = {}, pages = {55-58}, doi = {10.1192/bjp.161.1.55}, pmid = {1638329}, issn = {0007-1250}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Male ; Phenotype ; Schizophrenia/*genetics ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {A locus for schizophrenia within the pseudoautosomal region of chromosomes X and Y has been suggested by Crow on the basis of epidemiological data. The present report replicates this finding in a sample of 38 French multiply affected families with schizophrenia. Sibship and pairwise analysis, with or without weighted-pair correction, with three different systems of family classifications, showed there to be an excess of same-sex pairs in paternally derived sibships, as predicted by the pseudoautosomal hypothesis.}, }
@article {pmid1403975, year = {1992}, author = {Myung, JA and Lynn, R}, title = {Reaction times and intelligence in Korean children.}, journal = {The Journal of psychology}, volume = {126}, number = {4}, pages = {421-428}, doi = {10.1080/00223980.1992.10543375}, pmid = {1403975}, issn = {0022-3980}, mesh = {Child ; *Cross-Cultural Comparison ; Female ; Gender Identity ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Korea ; Male ; *Personality Development ; *Reaction Time ; }, abstract = {Nine-year-old Korean children (N = 299) were tested for reaction time (RT) and intelligence measured by Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. Reaction times were broken into decision times and movement times and into three degrees of complexity. The results showed low but generally statistically significant correlations between decision times and intelligence. Generally, no significant differences existed between movement times and intelligence. Boys showed significantly faster movement times than girls did.}, }
@article {pmid1628466, year = {1992}, author = {Karp, RJ and Martin, R and Sewell, T and Manni, J and Heller, A}, title = {Growth and academic achievement in inner-city kindergarten children. The relationship of height, weight, cognitive ability, and neurodevelopmental level.}, journal = {Clinical pediatrics}, volume = {31}, number = {6}, pages = {336-340}, doi = {10.1177/000992289203100604}, pmid = {1628466}, issn = {0009-9228}, mesh = {*Achievement ; Body Height ; Body Weight ; Child ; *Child Development ; Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; Child, Preschool ; Educational Measurement ; Female ; *Growth ; Humans ; Learning ; Male ; Philadelphia ; Poverty ; Problem Solving ; Psychology, Child ; Psychomotor Performance ; *Urban Population ; }, abstract = {Measures of height, weight, nonverbal cognitive ability (Ravens progressive matrix), visual-motor-perceptual ability (Beery-Buktenica test of Visual Motor Integration [VMI]), the imitation-of-gestures technique, and academic achievement (Stanford Early Achievement) were obtained for a sample of 82 children from a poor inner-city community. In contrast to prior reports from the United States and about other developed countries, anthropometric measures were related both to academic achievement and to these measures of neurodevelopment. They were not consistently related to measures of nonverbal cognitive ability. Regression analyses revealed that general cognitive ability contributed more variance (39%) to predictions of achievement than all other variables, including weight for age (13%) and VMI (6%). Children with reduced somatic growth were likely to do poorly in school, but the data do not show that undernutrition causes learning failure. Rather, they suggest that environmental problems affecting the development of thought processes and nutrient intake precede both growth and learning failure.}, }
@article {pmid1501988, year = {1992}, author = {Templer, DI}, title = {Prison norms for Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {74}, number = {3 Pt 2}, pages = {1193-1194}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1992.74.3c.1193}, pmid = {1501988}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Adult ; Black or African American/psychology ; Antisocial Personality Disorder/*psychology ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Prisoners/*psychology ; Psychometrics ; Reference Values ; }, abstract = {Prison norms for the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices were developed using 1126 male inmates in a prison in Nevada. 556 of the men were white, 480 black, 55 Mexican, 19 Cuban, 9 Asian, and 7 Native-American. Norms were provided for three age categories--under 35 years, age 36 to 54, and all ages combined. Normative information was presented for white inmates, black inmates, and all ethnicities combined. There was substantial overlap in distribution of scores by black and white inmates.}, }
@article {pmid1495765, year = {1992}, author = {}, title = {Special issue in honour of Barrie Jay.}, journal = {Ophthalmic paediatrics and genetics}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {35-143}, pmid = {1495765}, issn = {0167-6784}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; }, }
@article {pmid1424334, year = {1992}, author = {Hitoshi, S and Sato, K and Suzuki, K and Sato, K and Sakuta, M}, title = {[The role of interleukin-6 in Crow-Fukase syndrome].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {32}, number = {6}, pages = {577-582}, pmid = {1424334}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Endothelium, Vascular/metabolism ; Hemangioma/metabolism ; Humans ; Immunohistochemistry ; Interleukin-6/metabolism/*physiology ; POEMS Syndrome/*metabolism ; Skin Neoplasms/metabolism ; }, abstract = {We measured serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in 14 patients with Crow-Fukase syndrome. Five out of 14 patients with Crow-Fukase syndrome showed high serum IL-6 levels above 10 pg/ml, which was statistically significant in comparison with control subjects with other neurological diseases. Serial studies of serum IL-6 levels in two patients revealed the increase before the exacerbation of clinical symptoms of edema, and pleural or cardiac effusion, and the fall after the treatment by high dose pulsed methylprednisolone. We suggest that serum IL-6 level appears to be a useful marker to predict its exacerbation. Also we performed immunohistochemical study on cutaneous angioma from three Crow-Fukase syndrome patients using anti-IL-6 antibody. The cytoplasm of endothelial cells of cutaneous angioma from two patients was positively stained, which might imply the abnormality of endothelial cells in Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid1305366, year = {1992}, author = {Leibovich de Figueroa, NB and Schufer de Paikin, ML}, title = {[Colored matrices test (special scale): how to evaluate and interpret it in our milieu].}, journal = {Acta psiquiatrica y psicologica de America latina}, volume = {38}, number = {2}, pages = {147-158}, pmid = {1305366}, issn = {0001-6896}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Argentina ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Psychology, Child ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {Raven's "Colored Matrixes" (Special scale) were specially adapted for 5- to 11-years-old children by their author. The present paper analyzes: 1) The importance of taking into account wrong responses to the matrixes since they are likely to occur at a higher (5/6) probability level than correct responses (Burnbaum, 1968; Bock, 1972); 2) The proposal of considering the Colored Matrixes as a test with cultural reduced influences. The findings of a research carried out with 790 preschool- and schoolchildren (ranging 4- to 11.5-years-old) in Argentina are presented: Total scoring, and series scoring are shown. By means of a multiple variance analysis it has been found out that both age and series, as well as the interaction between both have a statistically significant influences on score variations. Besides, new evaluation guidelines are presented.}, }
@article {pmid1292971, year = {1992}, author = {Shimai, S}, title = {Emotion and identification of environmental sounds and electroencephalographic activity.}, journal = {Fukushima journal of medical science}, volume = {38}, number = {1}, pages = {43-56}, pmid = {1292971}, issn = {0016-2590}, mesh = {Adult ; *Electroencephalography ; *Emotions ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Sound ; }, abstract = {Eight environmental sounds, i.e., playing the harp, cuckoo's song, sound of the waves, cock's crow, noise of the subway, alarm of a clock, sound of a dentist's drill, scratching of the blackboard, and their temporally reverse sounds were presented for 20 sec to 16 college students in a sound-attenuated chamber. The subjects were requested to estimate the degree of pleasantness-unpleasantness and confidence in identifying each sound 10 sec after presentation. Electroencephalography was recorded at C3, C4, O1 and O2 (International 10-20 system), and the mean EEG powers of delta, theta, alpha-1, alpha-2, beta-1 and beta-2 bands during the sound presentations were computed by a signal processor. The results were as follows: 1) Even when the loudness and frequency component of the sounds were equivalent, there was big difference in pleasantness-unpleasantness estimation among the environmental sounds. 2) Inaccuracy in identifying the sounds presented backwards neutralized the pleasantness-unpleasantness estimation. 3) Powers of theta and low frequency alpha bands were higher during presentation of the pleasant sounds than during presentation of the unpleasant sounds. 4) Alpha activity was more closely related with subjective confidence in sound identification than with pleasantness-unpleasantness estimation of sound. These findings suggest that pleasantness-unpleasantness estimation of environmental sounds depends not only on their loudness level or frequency component but on the accuracy in sound identification and that modification of sound identification may be useful in alleviating the environment noise problem. Alpha activity seems to be closely related to the recognition of sound, but further research is needed on EEG activity in the relationship between the emotional state and sound identification.}, }
@article {pmid1599470, year = {1992}, author = {Ewart, KV and Rubinsky, B and Fletcher, GL}, title = {Structural and functional similarity between fish antifreeze proteins and calcium-dependent lectins.}, journal = {Biochemical and biophysical research communications}, volume = {185}, number = {1}, pages = {335-340}, doi = {10.1016/s0006-291x(05)90005-3}, pmid = {1599470}, issn = {0006-291X}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Antifreeze Proteins ; Base Sequence ; Biological Evolution ; Calcium/metabolism ; Fishes/*physiology ; Freezing ; Glycoproteins/*genetics ; Lectins/*genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Protein Conformation ; Sequence Homology, Nucleic Acid ; }, abstract = {A cDNA for a type II antifreeze protein was isolated from liver of smelt (Osmerus mordax). The predicted protein sequence is homologous to that from sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus) and both show homology to a family of calcium-dependent lectins. Smelt and sea raven belong to taxonomic orders believed to have diverged prior to Cenozoic glaciation. Thus, type II antifreeze proteins appear to have evolved independently in these fish species from pre-existing calcium-dependent lectins. Sequence alignment of the antifreezes and the lectins suggest that these proteins adopt a similar fold, that the sea raven antifreeze has lost its Ca2+ binding sites, and the smelt antifreeze has retained one site. Experiments show that smelt antifreeze protein activity is responsive to Ca2+ but that of sea raven antifreeze protein is not. These results suggest that the type II fish antifreeze proteins and calcium-dependent lectins share a common ancestry, related folding structures, and functional similarity.}, }
@article {pmid1517761, year = {1992}, author = {van Dijk, JG and Jennekens-Schinkel, A and Caekebeke, JF and Zwinderman, AH}, title = {Are event-related potentials in multiple sclerosis indicative of cognitive impairment? Evoked and event-related potentials, psychometric testing and response speed: a controlled study.}, journal = {Journal of the neurological sciences}, volume = {109}, number = {1}, pages = {18-24}, doi = {10.1016/0022-510x(92)90088-3}, pmid = {1517761}, issn = {0022-510X}, mesh = {Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology/physiopathology ; Evoked Potentials ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Motor Activity ; Multiple Sclerosis/complications/physiopathology/*psychology ; Neural Conduction ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Psychomotor Performance ; Reaction Time ; }, abstract = {Bimodal event-related potentials (ERPs), together with evoked potentials (EPs), measures of motor speed (tapping test, EMG latencies and reaction times (RT)), and psychometric test results were studied in a group of 30 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and 19 controls. ERPs have been advocated as objective tests of cognitive function. In the present study ERPs were compared with the results of psychometric tests, which have a proven validity in measuring aspects of cognitive function that are important in daily life. Abnormal EMG, RT and tapping speed confirmed that motor aspects of performance were slowed in the MS group. In contrast, cognitive non-motor variables such as Raven-IQ and MQ were not significantly abnormal. The proportions of abnormal ERP N2 and P3 latencies did not differ between the groups. It is concluded that the slow performance of MS subjects is therefore most likely not due to cognitive speed decrement, but to motor, executive impairments. No significant relationships between ERP latencies and psychometric test results were found. This held even for a subgroup of 5 MS patients with psychometrically established cognitive impairments. Based on these results, we query the relevance of ERPs as subtle indicators of cognitive impairment in MS.}, }
@article {pmid1603301, year = {1992}, author = {Chiarello, C and Richards, L}, title = {Another look at categorical priming in the cerebral hemispheres.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {30}, number = {4}, pages = {381-392}, doi = {10.1016/0028-3932(92)90111-x}, pmid = {1603301}, issn = {0028-3932}, support = {MH43868/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; *Arousal ; *Attention ; *Dominance, Cerebral ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Recall ; *Paired-Associate Learning ; Psycholinguistics ; *Semantics ; }, abstract = {This study investigated the effect of exemplar dominance on semantic priming in the left and right visual fields for words that are members of the same category, but not strongly associated. A low proportion of related primes was employed in lexical decision and word pronunciation tasks to assess the automatic activation of word meanings in each cerebral hemisphere. Priming was reliably obtained only in the LVF/right hemisphere. In addition, this effect did not vary with category dominance of the prime:equivalent LVF priming was observed for ROBIN-CROW (high dominant) and DUCK-CROW (low dominant) pairs. These findings support the view that a broader range of related meanings is activated during word recognition in the right, than in the left, hemisphere.}, }
@article {pmid1597681, year = {1992}, author = {Hernández, JA and Fischbarg, J}, title = {Kinetic analysis of water transport through a single-file pore.}, journal = {The Journal of general physiology}, volume = {99}, number = {4}, pages = {645-662}, pmid = {1597681}, issn = {0022-1295}, support = {EY-06178/EY/NEI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Biological Transport/physiology ; Kinetics ; Mathematics ; Models, Biological ; Osmosis/*physiology ; *Water ; }, abstract = {We apply the diagrammatic method developed by Hill (1977. Free Energy Transduction in Biology. Academic Press, New York) to analyze single-file water transport. We use this formalism to derive explicit expressions for the osmotic and diffusive permeabilities Pf and Pd of a pore. We first consider a vacancy mechanism of transport analogous to the one-vacancy pore model previously used by Kohler and Heckmann (1979. J. Theor. Biol. 79:381-401). (a) For the general one-vacancy case, we find that the permeability ratio can be expressed by Pf/Pd = (Pf/Pd)eqf(wA,wB), where the second factor is a function of the water activities in the two adjoining compartments A and B. As a consequence, the permeability ratio in general can effectively differ from its value at equilibrium. We also find that n - 1 less than or equal to (Pf/Pd)eq less than or equal to n, a result already proposed by Kohler and Heckmann (1979. J. Theor. Biol. 79:381-401). (b) When vacancy states are transient intermediates, the model can be reduced to a diagram consisting of only fully occupied states. Such a diagram resembles the one describing a no-vacancy mechanism of transport (c), but in spite of the similarity the expressions obtained for the permeability coefficients still retain the basic relationships of the original (a) nonreduced one-vacancy model. (c) We then propose a kinetic description of a no-vacancy mechanism of single-file water transport. In this case, the expressions derived for Pf and Pd are formally equivalent to those obtained by Finkelstein and Rosenberg (1979. Membrane Transport Processes. Vol. 3. C.F. Stevens and R.W. Tsien, editors, Raven Press, New York. 73-88.) A main difference with the vacancy mechanism is that here the permeability coefficients are independent of the water activities.}, }
@article {pmid1576790, year = {1992}, author = {Guyuron, B}, title = {Subcutaneous approach to forehead, brow, and modified temple incision.}, journal = {Clinics in plastic surgery}, volume = {19}, number = {2}, pages = {461-476}, pmid = {1576790}, issn = {0094-1298}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Male ; Rhytidoplasty/adverse effects/*methods ; Surgical Flaps ; }, abstract = {Placing the incision at the hairline or just posterior to the boundary of the hair, with subcutaneous elevation of the flaps, is a more effective way to correct the aging upper face, whether it be "crow's feet," excess forehead skin, or eyebrow ptosis. Furthermore, by placing the facial rhytidectomy incision at the sideburn boundary caudally and anteriorly, the sideburn can be preserved, regardless of the amount of skin removed. Patient selection and procedure have been described. Patients who are candidates for this type of surgery include those who have a long forehead, a short forehead, deep wrinkles, or thinner skin, as well as patients with deep frown lines and hyperactive corrugator muscles. The scars are generally minimal but can be camouflaged in one of many ways if they are visible. The most effective method is medical-grade tattooing. There are many advantages to the technique, the most important of which is control of forehead length and preservation of sensory and motor nerves. The results are far superior to most other available techniques in properly selected cases. In today's world of aesthetic surgery finesse, those who have expertise with a variety of approaches are more equipped to best serve the patients, and the techniques described here should be part of the aesthetic surgery armamentarium.}, }
@article {pmid1572947, year = {1992}, author = {Gainotti, G and Parlato, V and Monteleone, D and Carlomagno, S}, title = {Neuropsychological markers of dementia on visual-spatial tasks: a comparison between Alzheimer's type and vascular forms of dementia.}, journal = {Journal of clinical and experimental neuropsychology}, volume = {14}, number = {2}, pages = {239-252}, doi = {10.1080/01688639208402826}, pmid = {1572947}, issn = {1380-3395}, mesh = {Aged ; Alzheimer Disease/diagnosis/*psychology ; Attention ; Dementia, Multi-Infarct/diagnosis/psychology ; Dementia, Vascular/diagnosis/*psychology ; Depth Perception ; Dominance, Cerebral ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Orientation ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Psychomotor Performance ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {The incidence of the "closing-in" phenomenon and of the tendency to give "primitive answers" on the Raven's Colored Matrices was studied in 50 normal subjects and in two groups of Alzheimer's type (n = 41) and of vascular (n = 35) dementia patients, carefully matched as for the overall severity of dementia and the degree of visual-spatial impairment. The aims of this research were to determine if these patterns of behavior can be considered as neuropsychological markers of dementia and if their incidence is similar in the two dementia groups. Results show that both the closing-in phenomenon and the tendency to give globalistic and odd responses on the Raven's Colored Matrices are good markers of dementia and that, in particular, they point to a degenerative, rather than to a vascular form of dementia. From the clinical point of view, these data suggest that a qualitative analysis of the patient's behavior can increase the diagnostic efficacy of neuropsychological tests and that neuropsychological markers of dementia point more to Alzheimer's disease (considered as the most prototypic form of dementia) than to a vascular form of dementia even when the two groups of patients are well balanced in terms of visual-spatial impairment and the overall severity of dementia.}, }
@article {pmid1567273, year = {1992}, author = {Fenton, WS and McGlashan, TH}, title = {Testing systems for assessment of negative symptoms in schizophrenia.}, journal = {Archives of general psychiatry}, volume = {49}, number = {3}, pages = {179-184}, doi = {10.1001/archpsyc.1992.01820030011002}, pmid = {1567273}, issn = {0003-990X}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales/*standards/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychometrics ; ROC Curve ; Reproducibility of Results ; Retrospective Studies ; Schizophrenia/classification/*diagnosis ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Severity of Illness Index ; }, abstract = {To compare methods of measuring negative symptoms, eight rating scales were employed to retrospectively assess and subtype 187 patients with schizophrenia from the Chestnut Lodge Follow-up Study. These included Andreasen's Schedule for Assessment of Negative Symptoms, Carpenter's Criteria for the Deficit Syndrome, Kay and Opler's Positive and Negative Symptom Scale, the scales developed by Krawiecka et al and Crow's modification of them, the Negative Symptom Scale developed by Lewine et al, Pogue-Geile and Harrow's Negative Symptom Scale, and Abrams and Taylor's Emotional Blunting Scale. The overlap and concordance, temporal stability, and predictive validity of these instruments are described. When rated from detailed medical records, the reliability of all scales was fair to good. Despite their inclusion of different items, there were high positive correlations between the scales when used to rate negative symptoms dimensionally. When used to classify individual patients as having the negative or deficit syndrome, however, concordance among criteria was low. Using the broadest criteria (Pogue-Geile and Harrow), 75 (40%) patients were diagnosed as having negative syndrome; the narrowest criteria (Andreasen and Olsen) yielded 11 (6%) diagnoses of negative syndrome. Narrower definitions tended to be subsets of broader ones. Carpenter's Criteria for the Deficit Syndrome focus on primary enduring negative symptoms and show the greatest temporal stability. Broader criteria, which diagnose the deficit or negative syndrome independent of severity of positive symptoms, had the greatest predictive validity.}, }
@article {pmid1293200, year = {1992}, author = {Buehler, JA}, title = {Traditional Crow Indian health beliefs and practices. Toward a grounded theory.}, journal = {Journal of holistic nursing : official journal of the American Holistic Nurses' Association}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {18-33}, doi = {10.1177/089801019201000104}, pmid = {1293200}, issn = {0898-0101}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Attitude to Health/*ethnology ; Female ; *Holistic Health ; Humans ; *Indians, North American ; Interviews as Topic ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Montana ; Nursing Methodology Research ; Transcultural Nursing/*methods ; }, abstract = {An important element in American Indian cultures is a holistic view of wellness. Nurses attempting to provide holistic, culturally sensitive health services to American Indian clients must assess the cultural orientation of their clients and have culture-specific knowledge. A pilot qualitative study was conducted at the Crow Indian Reservation in south central Montana. Qualitative analysis of data identified categories of traditional contemporary health practices of Crow Indians. These categories are use of rituals/ceremonies, indigenous healers, and sacred objects. Five patterns of use of traditional health practices were also discovered. These are (a) initial use of traditional practices followed by modern health services, (b) initial use of modern health services followed by traditional practices, (c) simultaneous bicultural use, (d) traditional use only, and (e) modern use only.}, }
@article {pmid1310673, year = {1992}, author = {Lu, XP and Koch, KS and Lew, DJ and Dulic, V and Pines, J and Reed, SI and Hunter, T and Leffert, HL}, title = {Induction of cyclin mRNA and cyclin-associated histone H1 kinase during liver regeneration.}, journal = {The Journal of biological chemistry}, volume = {267}, number = {5}, pages = {2841-2844}, pmid = {1310673}, issn = {0021-9258}, mesh = {Animals ; CDC2 Protein Kinase/metabolism ; Cell Cycle ; Cyclins/genetics/*metabolism ; Kinetics ; Liver/cytology/physiology ; *Liver Regeneration ; Protamine Kinase/*biosynthesis ; Proto-Oncogene Mas ; RNA, Messenger/*biosynthesis ; Rats ; }, abstract = {Cyclins and cyclin-associated cdc kinases are key regulators of oocyte maturation (Maller, J. L. (1990) in The Biology and Medicine of Signal Transduction (Nishizuka, Y., Endo, M., and Tanaka, C., eds) pp. 323-328, Raven Press, New York), yeast cell cycles (Nurse, P. (1990) Nature 344, 503-508), DNA replication in cell-free systems (D'Urso, F., Marraccino, R. L., Marshak, R. R., and Roberts, J. M. (1990) Science 250, 786-791), and amphibian cell proliferative transitions (Hunt, T. (1991) Nature 350, 462-463). The extent to which these regulatory molecules participate in the growth control of differentiated epithelial cells like hepatocytes is unknown. Therefore, we investigated the expression of "G1" (E, C, and D) and "G2/M" (A, B1, and B2) cyclin mRNAs, the relative levels of cyclin A- and B1-associated histone H1-kinase activity, and the appearance of cyclin-associated kinases (p32/p33cdk2 and p33/p34cdc2) in regenerating rat liver and in control tissues from sham hepatectomized rats. To do this, we exploited a battery of human cyclin cDNAs and cyclin antisera that recognize rat molecules. The results suggest an apparent sequence of regeneration-specific changes: 1) elevated and induced expression of cyclins E (2.1 kilobases (kb)) and C (4 kb), and D mRNAs (4 kb), within 12 h, respectively; 2) induction of cyclins A (3.4 and 1.8 kb), B1 (2.5 and 1.8 kb), and B2 (1.9 kb) mRNAs at 24 h; 3) induction of cyclin A- and B1-associated nuclear histone H1 kinase at 24 h; and 4) enhanced levels of PSTAIRE-containing proteins of Mr approximately 32-33 and 33-34 kDa in nuclear extracts from 24-h regenerating liver that co-immunoprecipitate with cyclin A and B1 antisera, respectively. These observations provide an intellectual framework that unifies the biology of hepatocyte mitogenesis, proto-oncogene expression, and the machinery of the cell cycle.}, }
@article {pmid1592333, year = {1992}, author = {Arima, F and Dohmen, K and Yamano, Y and Omori, F and Yoshimura, H and Nagano, M and Itoh, H and Ishibashi, H}, title = {[Five cases of Crow-Fukase syndrome].}, journal = {Fukuoka igaku zasshi = Hukuoka acta medica}, volume = {83}, number = {2}, pages = {112-120}, pmid = {1592333}, issn = {0016-254X}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; Hyperthyroidism/diagnosis/*physiopathology ; Hypothyroidism/diagnosis/*physiopathology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Paraproteinemias/diagnosis/*physiopathology ; Pigmentation Disorders/diagnosis/physiopathology ; Polyneuropathies/diagnosis/physiopathology ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {We presented five cases of Crow-Fukase syndrome. Plasma cell hyperplasia or dyscrasia in bone marrow were recognized in all cases and localized bone lesion was seen in three cases. Thyroid dysfunction was seen in three cases; hyperthyroidism in one case and hypothyroidism in two cases, which was considered to be one of the characteristics though it has seldom been described in this disease. Two of four cases treated with prednisolone had good responses but two cases treated with interferon had no effect.}, }
@article {pmid1568830, year = {1992}, author = {Rohkamm, R}, title = {[Comment on the contribution by A. Krupp and K. G. Ravens: "Foudroyant course of generalized cryptococcosis with no signs of immune compromise"].}, journal = {Der Internist}, volume = {33}, number = {2}, pages = {127}, pmid = {1568830}, issn = {0020-9554}, mesh = {Amphotericin B/therapeutic use ; Drug Therapy, Combination ; Flucytosine/therapeutic use ; Humans ; Immunocompromised Host/*immunology ; Meningitis, Cryptococcal/diagnosis/drug therapy/*immunology ; }, }
@article {pmid1537947, year = {1992}, author = {Morrow, DM}, title = {Chemical peeling of eyelids and periorbital area.}, journal = {The Journal of dermatologic surgery and oncology}, volume = {18}, number = {2}, pages = {102-110}, doi = {10.1111/j.1524-4725.1992.tb02441.x}, pmid = {1537947}, issn = {0148-0812}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Chemexfoliation/methods ; Eyelids/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Laser Therapy ; Middle Aged ; *Orbit ; Pigmentation Disorders/surgery ; *Skin Aging ; Skin Pigmentation ; Trichloroacetic Acid/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {Chemical peeling promotes formation of new epidermis and new dermal collagen, resulting in skin shrinkage, reduction of wrinkling and crepe paper skin, softening of crow's feet, and, when desired, lightened eyelid color. Chemical peeling may be performed as the only eyelid procedure, simultaneously with CO2 laser surgical blepharoplasty, after healing of cold-steel-scalpel or CO2-laser blepharoplasty, and as a repeated procedure to achieve maximal results.}, }
@article {pmid1730738, year = {1992}, author = {Gross, M and Crow, P and White, J}, title = {The site of hydrolysis by rabbit reticulocyte peptidyl-tRNA hydrolase is the 3'-AMP terminus of susceptible tRNA substrates.}, journal = {The Journal of biological chemistry}, volume = {267}, number = {3}, pages = {2080-2086}, pmid = {1730738}, issn = {0021-9258}, support = {HL-30121/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Adenosine Monophosphate ; Animals ; Carboxylic Ester Hydrolases/*blood ; Globins/genetics ; Kinetics ; RNA, Messenger/metabolism ; RNA, Ribosomal/metabolism ; RNA, Transfer/metabolism ; RNA, Transfer, Amino Acyl/*metabolism ; Rabbits ; Reticulocytes/*enzymology ; Substrate Specificity ; }, abstract = {The preceding paper (Gross, M., Starn, T.K., Rundquist, C., Crow, P., White, J., Olin, A., and Wagner, T. (1992) J. Biol. Chem. 267, 2073-2079) reported the purification and partial characterization of rabbit reticulocyte peptidyl-tRNA hydrolase. In this article we demonstrate that, unlike bacterial and yeast peptidyl-tRNA hydrolase which act by deacylation, the reticulocyte enzyme hydrolyzes N-acylaminoacyl-tRNA to N-acylaminoacyl-AMP. Reticulocyte lysate has a separate enzyme, that we have isolated and termed aminoacyl-AMP deacylase, which hydrolyzes N-acylaminoacyl-AMP and aminoacyl-AMP, recycling the amino acid and nucleotide components. The action of this enzyme is relatively specific for the N-acylaminoacyl-AMP generated by peptidyl-tRNA hydrolase, since it is much less active with N-acylaminoacyl-adenosine and inactive with N-acylaminoacyl-ACCAC, N-acylaminoacyl-tRNA, or aminoacyl-tRNA. The tRNA product of peptidyl-tRNA hydrolase action is tRNA missing only its 3'-AMP terminus (tRNA(c-c)), since reaminoacylation requires tRNA nucleotidyltransferase but not CTP. The 3' exonucleolytic action of reticulocyte peptidyl-tRNA hydrolase is specific to susceptible tRNA substrates, since it does not hydrolyze CACCA, CACCA-N-acylamino acid, polyuridylic acid, or the 3' polyadenylate tail of globin mRNA, and, since its ability to hydrolyze Escherichia coli f[3H]Met-tRNA(fMet) is not reduced by excess 5 S or 28 S ribosomal RNA and is reduced only slightly by excess tRNA(c-c). Reticulocyte peptidyl-tRNA hydrolase also hydrolyzes th 3'-AMP terminus of deacylated tRNA. This property may explain why the 3'-terminal AMP of tRNA undergoes turnover in reticulocytes and reticulocyte lysate, since we find that such turnover in gel-filtered reticulocyte lysate is increased under conditions where aminoacylation is reduced.}, }
@article {pmid1620796, year = {1992}, author = {Linde, L and Bergström, M}, title = {The effect of one night without sleep on problem-solving and immediate recall.}, journal = {Psychological research}, volume = {54}, number = {2}, pages = {127-136}, pmid = {1620796}, issn = {0340-0727}, mesh = {Adult ; Attention ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Problem Solving ; *Sleep Deprivation ; }, abstract = {The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of spending one night without sleep on the performance of complex cognitive tasks, such as problem-solving, in comparison with a purely short-term memory task. One type of task investigated was immediate free recall, assumed to reflect the holding capacity of the working memory. The other type of task investigated was represented by syntactical reasoning and problem-solving tasks, assumed to reflect the processing (the mental transformation of input) and monitoring capacity of the working memory. Two experiments with a repeated-measures design were performed. Experiment 1 showed a significant decline in performance as a function of sleep loss on Raven's progressive matrices, a problem-solving task. No other main effect of sleep loss was found. Experiment 2 had a different order between tasks than Experiment 1 and the time without sleep was increased. A number-series induction task was also used in Experiment 2. A significant, negative effect of sleep loss in performance on Raven's progressive matrices was found in Experiment 2. The effects of sleep loss on the other tasks were nonsignificant. It is suggested that Raven's progressive-matrices task reflects the ability to monitor encoding operations (selective attention) and to monitor mental "computations".}, }
@article {pmid1568043, year = {1992}, author = {Sakemi, H and Okada, H}, title = {An autopsy case of Crow-Fukase syndrome which developed 18 years after the first manifestation of plasmacytoma.}, journal = {Internal medicine (Tokyo, Japan)}, volume = {31}, number = {1}, pages = {50-54}, doi = {10.2169/internalmedicine.31.50}, pmid = {1568043}, issn = {0918-2918}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications/diagnosis/etiology ; Plasmacytoma/*complications ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {A 57-yr-old woman developed Crow-Fukase syndrome 18 yr after resection of plasmacytoma of the rib. Irradiation applied to the relapsed plasmacytoma and systemic chemotherapy alleviated symptoms and signs, but the tumor relapsed in the unirradiated cervical lymph node and she died of Pseudomonas pneumonia during chemotherapy 3 yr after diagnosis. Biopsy of the lymph node revealed proliferation of IgG-lambda-positive atypical plasma cells while autopsy revealed plasmacytoma remnant in the pleura of the affected side 21 yr before. No amyloid was found on autopsy. Crow-Fukase syndrome can develop long after the origination of plasmacytoma.}, }
@article {pmid1544616, year = {1992}, author = {Pakesch, G and Pfersmann, D and Loimer, N and Grünberger, J and Linzmayer, L and Mayerhofer, S}, title = {[Noopsychological changes and psychopathological characteristics of HIV-1 patients of various risk groups].}, journal = {Fortschritte der Neurologie-Psychiatrie}, volume = {60}, number = {1}, pages = {17-27}, doi = {10.1055/s-2007-999121}, pmid = {1544616}, issn = {0720-4299}, mesh = {AIDS Dementia Complex/*diagnosis/psychology ; Adolescent ; Adult ; Female ; *HIV-1 ; Homosexuality/psychology ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; MMPI ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neurocognitive Disorders/diagnosis/psychology ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Risk Factors ; Substance Abuse, Intravenous/complications/psychology ; }, abstract = {Reports on neuropsychological assessment and psychopathological symptoms in HIV-1 patients are rather different. The aim of the study was to assess frequency and extent of noopsychic changes and psychopathological symptoms in HIV-1 patients of different risk groups. Of the 77 patients being included in the study 35 patients belonged to risk group 1, 42 to risk group 2. The patient groups were compared to a control-group of healthy volunteers (n = 50) and to a control-group of HIV-negative i.v. drug-addicts (n = 31). The psychometric test battery included Raven and MWT Test, Benton Test, numerical memory Test, ARG Test. Personality variables were assessed by MMPI, Psychopathology by AMDP-System, Hamilton Depression Scale, Wellbeing Scale (von Zerssen), STAI 1 and 2 and BPRS. Patients of risk group 1 showed significantly less impairment of noopsychic performance than patients of risk group 2. Risk group 1 showed only in the Benton Test significant impairment compared to healthy volunteers while risk group 2 in most of the tests was impaired. Risk group 2 did not show impairment compared to the control-group of seronegative drug users. Depressive syndromes mainly in risk group 2 showed a significant influence on the noopsychic performance.}, }
@article {pmid1523972, year = {1992}, author = {Sobue, G and Doyu, M and Watanabe, M and Hayashi, F and Mitsuma, T}, title = {Extensive demyelinating changes in the peripheral nerves of Crow-Fukase syndrome: a pathological study of one autopsied case.}, journal = {Acta neuropathologica}, volume = {84}, number = {2}, pages = {171-177}, pmid = {1523972}, issn = {0001-6322}, mesh = {Aged ; Brain/pathology ; Demyelinating Diseases/*pathology ; Humans ; Immunohistochemistry ; Male ; POEMS Syndrome/*pathology ; Peripheral Nerves/*pathology ; Spinal Cord/pathology ; T-Lymphocytes/ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {Pathological changes of the peripheral nervous system in one autopsied case of Crow-Fukase syndrome (POEMS syndrome) was systemically examined. Distally accentuated myelinated axon loss was observed in the peripheral nerve trunks, ventral and dorsal spinal roots, but was not observed in the fasciculus gracilis. Segmental demyelination and remyelination associated with focal excessive myelin outfolds were the most characteristic features, the distribution of which was more prominent in the proximal nerve trunks and the spinal nerve roots. Endoneurial edema was present, and focal perivascular T lymphocyte accumulation was occasionally observed in the spinal nerve roots and proximal nerve trunks. Neurons in the sympathetic ganglia, dorsal root ganglia and ventral horns were well preserved.}, }
@article {pmid1478521, year = {1992}, author = {Tsurikova, GV and Spitsyn, VA and Gladkova, EV and Minaeva, OP}, title = {[Biodemographic parameters as indicators of genetic adaptation to harmful occupational factors (e.g. asbestos)].}, journal = {Gigiena truda i professional'nye zabolevaniia}, volume = {}, number = {6}, pages = {28-30}, pmid = {1478521}, issn = {0016-9919}, mesh = {Abortion, Spontaneous/*etiology/genetics ; Adaptation, Biological/genetics ; Adult ; Air Pollutants, Occupational/*adverse effects ; Asbestos/*adverse effects ; Asbestosis/*complications/genetics ; Disease Susceptibility ; Female ; Genotype ; Humans ; Infant ; *Infant Mortality ; Infant, Newborn ; Infertility, Female/*etiology/genetics ; Pregnancy ; *Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects ; Russia ; }, abstract = {A total of 129 women working at asbestos-concentrating factories and asbestos articles manufacture plant, including 87 of them facing asbestosis and 42 exposed to asbestos without asbestosis were examined. There was no marked shifts in the reproductive function and pregnancy results of women facing asbestosis and those exposed to asbestos without asbestosis. Women facing asbestosis has infant mortality higher than other women. Parameters of potential selection (index Crow) in the studied population showed an unfavourable demographic situation in women facing asbestosis. Analysis of biodemographic data helped to suggest the possibility of genetic predisposition to asbestosis.}, }
@article {pmid1461906, year = {1992}, author = {Kovalev, GK}, title = {[Serological studies of synanthropic birds for infection by M. avium].}, journal = {Problemy tuberkuleza}, volume = {}, number = {9-10}, pages = {44-46}, pmid = {1461906}, issn = {0032-9533}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*microbiology ; Hemagglutination Tests ; Mycobacterium avium/*isolation &amp; purification ; Russia ; }, abstract = {Examination for M. avium contamination covered 702 specimens of the synanthropic birds of 6 species (hooded crows, daws, rooks, magpies, sparrows, starlings) which was carried out in 13 landscape-epizootic areas of the northern zone of the Low Volga region. Contamination was studied by a serological test (AIT) using the M. avium extract and dry avian tuberculin as an antigen in the parallel tests. It was found that 96 (23%) of the 416 specimens from the right bank of the Volga and 65 (22.72%) of the 286 birds from the left bank were AIT-seropositive. The paper presents methods of study and contamination parameters of birds; the character of distribution of the infected birds by the region of the examination zone is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid1340050, year = {1992}, author = {Spencer, HG}, title = {Assortative versus selective mating: is the distinction worthwhile?.}, journal = {Social biology}, volume = {39}, number = {3-4}, pages = {310-315}, doi = {10.1080/19485565.1992.9988827}, pmid = {1340050}, issn = {0037-766X}, support = {GM-21179/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Alleles ; Animals ; Fertility ; *Genetics, Population ; Genotype ; Heterozygote ; *Models, Genetic ; Phenotype ; Random Allocation ; *Selection, Genetic ; *Sexual Behavior, Animal ; }, abstract = {The study examines the distinction between assortative and selective mating made by Lewontin, Kirk, and Crow in 1968 and finds it unproductive. Not only has the difference been ignored on many occasions even as it was invoked, but maintaining it obscures several useful properties of both nonrandom mating schemes and some formally equivalent systems such as fertility selection. The elucidation of these similarities could have accelerated the work of population biologists.}, }
@article {pmid1302137, year = {1992}, author = {Schakal, A and Cordonnier, M and Soupart, A}, title = {[POEMS syndrome and papilledema].}, journal = {Bulletin de la Societe belge d'ophtalmologie}, volume = {243}, number = {}, pages = {1-10}, pmid = {1302137}, issn = {0081-0746}, mesh = {Adrenal Cortex Hormones/therapeutic use ; Humans ; Immunoglobulin A/isolation &amp; purification ; Immunoglobulin lambda-Chains/isolation &amp; purification ; Interferon alpha-2 ; Interferon-alpha/therapeutic use ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Optic Disk Drusen ; POEMS Syndrome/*diagnosis/drug therapy/immunology ; Papilledema/*diagnosis/etiology ; Recombinant Proteins ; }, abstract = {The Crow-Fukase syndrome or POEMS syndrome (Polyneuropathy, Organomegaly, Edema, Monoclonal protein, Skin changes) is an uncommon plasma cell dyscrasia leading to a multisystemic disorder. An optic disc swelling is often related to this syndrome. We report the case of a 51-year-old man with a papilledema. We presume that vasculitis or plasma cell infiltration is the cause of the papilledema.}, }
@article {pmid1295275, year = {1992}, author = {Rhenius, D and Locher, J}, title = {[Evaluation algorithm for eye movement patterns during a problem solving task].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur experimentelle und angewandte Psychologie}, volume = {39}, number = {4}, pages = {646-661}, pmid = {1295275}, issn = {0044-2712}, mesh = {*Algorithms ; *Attention ; *Eye Movements ; *Fixation, Ocular ; Humans ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {Cognitive processes are accompanied by eye movements, which are interrupted by fixations of an almost infinite number of points in the visual field. To investigate these processes, a systematic analysis of those movements is required to structure the long sequences of fixations. This task is possible if there are interrelationships between the ongoing thought processes and the fixations. Such interrelationships may manifest themselves through certain patterns of eye movements. It often happens that subsets of visual points are being looked at repeatedly. This is because a cognitive connection among the subset's elements is being discovered or created by such repetition. The method presented here attempts to achieve automatic recognition of fixation point patterns. Its usefulness is demonstrated using data from an experiment where eye movements were recorded while subjects were solving Raven Test items. The method may be characterized as a variant of time series analysis for nominal data. It is suitable for non-numerical data in general.}, }
@article {pmid1815165, year = {1991}, author = {}, title = {Aeolus Press awards first OPG medal to Dr. Marcelle Jay.}, journal = {Ophthalmic paediatrics and genetics}, volume = {12}, number = {4}, pages = {159-160}, doi = {10.3109/13816819109025810}, pmid = {1815165}, issn = {0167-6784}, mesh = {*Awards and Prizes ; Denmark ; History, 20th Century ; *Ophthalmology/history ; Publishing ; }, }
@article {pmid1800434, year = {1991}, author = {Margetts, BM and Rowland, MG and Foord, FA and Cruddas, AM and Cole, TJ and Barker, DJ}, title = {The relation of maternal weight to the blood pressures of Gambian children.}, journal = {International journal of epidemiology}, volume = {20}, number = {4}, pages = {938-943}, doi = {10.1093/ije/20.4.938}, pmid = {1800434}, issn = {0300-5771}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Birth Weight ; *Blood Pressure ; *Body Weight ; Child ; Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Gambia ; Humans ; Infant ; Male ; *Nutritional Status ; Pregnancy/*physiology ; Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects ; Rural Health ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {The objective of the study was to relate blood pressure levels in children to their mother's weight in pregnancy. The blood pressures of 675 children aged from one to nine years in three villages in rural Gambia were measured. They were matched to antenatal clinic data which had been collected from all pregnant women in the three villages since 1980. Among children under eight years of age those born in the dry season had the highest blood pressures and were heavier. Their blood pressures were positively related to body weight and to mothers' weight at six months of pregnancy. These relationships were independent of mothers' age and parity, birthweight, gestational age, and placental weight. Among older children, aged eight and nine years, those born in the rainy season had the highest blood pressures. Their blood pressures were not related to their mothers' weight at six months of pregnancy. Rather they were inversely related to mothers' weight gain in the last trimester. An interpretation of these findings is that among young children differences in blood pressure are largely determined by rates of maturation. However, the long-term effects of adverse intra-uterine influences which elevate blood pressure become apparent in older children.}, }
@article {pmid1799200, year = {1991}, author = {Mitchell, G}, title = {The great narcissist: a study of Fitzgerald's Jay Gatsby.}, journal = {American journal of psychoanalysis}, volume = {51}, number = {4}, pages = {387-396}, doi = {10.1007/BF01251033}, pmid = {1799200}, issn = {0002-9548}, mesh = {Ego ; Female ; Humans ; *Literature, Modern ; Male ; *Narcissism ; *Psychoanalytic Interpretation ; Self Concept ; }, }
@article {pmid1816594, year = {1991}, author = {Sosnowski, T and Nurzynska, M and Polec, M}, title = {Active-passive coping and skin conductance and heart rate changes.}, journal = {Psychophysiology}, volume = {28}, number = {6}, pages = {665-672}, doi = {10.1111/j.1469-8986.1991.tb01011.x}, pmid = {1816594}, issn = {0048-5772}, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological/*physiology ; Adolescent ; Adult ; Arousal/*physiology ; Female ; Galvanic Skin Response/*physiology ; Heart Rate/*physiology ; Humans ; Problem Solving/physiology ; Psychophysiology ; Verbal Behavior/physiology ; }, abstract = {Sixty subjects were administered 33 tasks, selected from the Raven Progressive Matrices, in conditions that differed by type of monetary reinforcement (reward, frustration, and control group). Subjects were tested in pairs. One subject, assigned as the active one, was asked to solve a problem while the other was only a passive observer. Heart rate level and the amplitude of evoked skin conductance responses were measured. Statistical analysis detected a higher heart rate level in active versus passive subjects at the beginning stage of the experiment, as well as a faster heart rate decrease in the former versus the latter group during subsequent blocks of four tasks. Changes in skin conductance response magnitude during the ensuing task phases exhibited a descending trend in passive subjects and an ascending trend in active subjects. The monetary reinforcement manipulation was not effective. The results support a concept put forward by Fowles (1988), who maintained that tonic heart rate and skin conductance response amplitude may serve as indices of the behavioral activation system and behavioral inhibition system, respectively, as postulated by Gray's model of arousal.}, }
@article {pmid1813198, year = {1991}, author = {Honda, Y and Murai, I and Aramaki, M and Shoji, H and Oizumi, K}, title = {[A patient with lambda type light-chain disease associated with Crow-Fukase syndrome and autoimmune thrombocytopenia].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {31}, number = {11}, pages = {1248-1251}, pmid = {1813198}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Aged ; Cyclophosphamide/therapeutic use ; Female ; Humans ; Hypergammaglobulinemia/*complications ; Immunoglobulin G/metabolism ; *Immunoglobulin Light Chains ; *Immunoglobulin lambda-Chains ; Melphalan/therapeutic use ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications ; Paraproteinemias/complications ; Thrombocytopenia/drug therapy/*etiology ; }, abstract = {A 67-year-old woman, who presented polyneuropathy, pleural effusion, ascites and sclerosing changes in the ribs, was admitted to our hospital on June 17, 1987. On admission, cerebrospinal examination showed a marked protein-cell dissociation and a delay in nerve conduction velocity. Bence-Jones protein was detected in urine, and the immunohistochemical study of biopsied bone marrow of the rib revealed lambda-chain positive plasmacytoma. Serum immunoelectrophoresis, however, showed no monoclonal gamma-globulinemia. From the findings described above, she was diagnosed as having Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with lambda-type light chain disease. Even with a therapy by prednisolone, platelet counts progressively declined to 10,000/ml3. Bone marrow aspiration showed normal number of megakaryocytes. Since platelet-associated IgG was increased to 452 ng/1.0 x 10(8) plt, a diagnosis of autoimmune thrombocytopenia was considered. Melphalan and cyclophosphamide to plasmacytoma resulted in a marked improvement of platelets. In addition, the level of platelet-associated IgG returned to normal range. Polyneuropathy, however, didn't respond to those therapies. It was suggested that both Crow-Fukase syndrome and thrombocytopenia were closely concerned with plasmacytoma but developed in a different manner.}, }
@article {pmid1806361, year = {1991}, author = {Gorwood, P and Leboyer, M and Jay, M and Hillaire, D and Carteault, F and Dugain, AM and Berg, S and Des Lauriers, A and Feingold, J}, title = {[Familial forms of schizophrenia. Cytogenetic study].}, journal = {L'Encephale}, volume = {17}, number = {6}, pages = {525-529}, pmid = {1806361}, issn = {0013-7006}, mesh = {Chromosome Aberrations ; Humans ; Karyotyping ; Pedigree ; Research ; Schizophrenia/*genetics ; }, abstract = {As a preliminary step in the search for chromosomal location of a susceptibility gene predisposing to schizophrenia, cytogenetic screening of patients might be useful. Search for chromosomal aberrations has successfully directed and accelerated the identification of several disease genes, such as the Duchenne muscular dystrophy gene, retinoblastoma, Burkitt's lymphoma and chronic myeloïd leukemia. Although karyotypes abnormalities do not account for a large portion of cases of Schizophrenia, the two candidate regions predisposing to this disease resulted from observation of chromosomal abnormalities. First, the identification of a partial trisomy of the 5q11-q13 region (Basset et al., 1988) led Sherrington et al. (1988) to report a positive linkage with markers localized on the long arm of chromosome 5, which has not yet been replicated (Kauffman et al., 1989; Kennedy et al., 1988; St Clair et al., 1989). Second, on the basis of frequent cytogenetic abnormalities of the sex chromosome (DeLisi, 1985) in addition to epidemiological observations, Crow (1988) suggested that there could be a locus for psychosis within the pseudoautosomal region, a data which has been recently confirmed (Collinge et al., 1991). With the hypothesis that such aberrations could be more frequent among schizophrenics who have at least one affected first-degree relative, we undertook cytogenetic screening on a sample recruited from consecutive psychiatric admissions to a Psychiatric facility (Hôpital Saint Paul) involving patients living in a limited geographical area on the island of La Réunion, a French Department in the Indian Ocean.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid1772260, year = {1991}, author = {Rabinowitz, MB and Wang, JD and Soong, WT}, title = {Dentine lead and child intelligence in Taiwan.}, journal = {Archives of environmental health}, volume = {46}, number = {6}, pages = {351-360}, doi = {10.1080/00039896.1991.9934402}, pmid = {1772260}, issn = {0003-9896}, mesh = {Air Pollutants/adverse effects ; Child ; Dentin/*chemistry ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Industry ; Intelligence/*drug effects ; Intelligence Tests ; Lead/adverse effects/*analysis/blood ; Male ; Parents ; Rural Population ; Sex Factors ; Taiwan ; Tooth, Deciduous/*chemistry ; Urban Population ; }, abstract = {It is well known that lead is a developmental neurotoxin, but, because many factors influence a child's development, a safe level of lead for children is still not clear. In this study, personal lead exposure was assessed. A total of 940 deciduous teeth--mostly incisors--was collected from 764 children in grades 1-3 who attended 7 primary schools. Two of the primary schools were near smelters, 4 were in Taipei City, and 1 was located in a coastal village. Teachers were provided with a questionnaire about classroom performance, and 97% completed and returned the questionnaire to the laboratory. Parents were given a questionnaire about family background, pregnancy, and health history (92% returned). Dentine lead levels of shed incisors for children in Taipei City were higher than levels reported in Boston, i.e., mean (standard deviation) of 4.4 (3.5) versus 3.3 (2.5) micrograms/g, respectively (p less than .001). The lead values were significantly higher in children who attended school near a smelter than in children who attended school in Taipei City: 6.3 (3.3) (p less than .001). The mean lead levels in children who attended school in a coastal village was 5.1 (2.8). The ranges for all schools overlapped, which indicated that there were multiple lead sources. Intelligence scores from Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices Test were negatively correlated with lead levels, especially among girls and among children whose parents had less education. We adjusted for other risk factors--most notably parental education, which correlates inversely with lead levels--and found that the role of the lead term was lowered but not eliminated.}, }
@article {pmid1757645, year = {1991}, author = {Van Vleck, LD}, title = {C. R. Henderson: farm boy, athlete, and scientist.}, journal = {Journal of dairy science}, volume = {74}, number = {11}, pages = {4082-4096}, doi = {10.3168/jds.S0022-0302(91)78603-7}, pmid = {1757645}, issn = {0022-0302}, mesh = {Breeding/history ; History, 20th Century ; Iowa ; New York ; Statistics as Topic/history ; }, abstract = {Charles R. Henderson was proud to be a product of a farm in Page County, Iowa. He was a one man track team in Coin, Iowa, and a brilliant student. He became a world class competitor in track at Iowa State College and, at the same time, compiled a top academic record. His early experiences set the stage for the exceptional contributions of his animal breeding career, which did not begin until he was nearly 40 yr of age, but which spanned 40 yr when he was the acknowledged leader in development of statistical methodology applied to animal breeding. His career goals were to find the best possible ways to analyze data and to provide the best genetic evaluations to the livestock industry. If the best could not be done because of computational limitations, then he would pragmatically work to find the best way that was possible. Only his interest in Cornell hockey overshadowed his enjoyment in listening to classical music. He was an avid sports fan, especially for the St. Louis Cardinals or any midwestern team against the New York Yankees. Midwestern trips during the weeks when the Drake Relays were held were as often as possible. Henderson's acknowledged scientific hero was Jay L. Lush, with whom he studied during his Ph.D. program at Iowa State College and with whom he shared similar talents and the intuition that made both of them leaders in the field of animal breeding.}, }
@article {pmid1953726, year = {1991}, author = {Rubinsky, B and Arav, A and Fletcher, GL}, title = {Hypothermic protection--a fundamental property of "antifreeze" proteins.}, journal = {Biochemical and biophysical research communications}, volume = {180}, number = {2}, pages = {566-571}, doi = {10.1016/s0006-291x(05)81102-7}, pmid = {1953726}, issn = {0006-291X}, mesh = {Animals ; Antifreeze Proteins ; Cattle ; Cell Survival/drug effects ; Female ; Fertilization in Vitro ; Fishes ; Freezing ; Glycoproteins/isolation &amp; purification/*pharmacology ; In Vitro Techniques ; Oocytes/*cytology/drug effects/physiology ; }, abstract = {For the last two decades fish antifreeze proteins have been considered to function exclusively in conferring freeze-resistance to fish by binding to ice crystals and thereby depressing blood plasma freezing points non-colligatively. We report here the discovery of a second fundamental property of antifreeze proteins, the ability to protect cells and their membranes from hypothermic damage. Experiments were carried out exposing immature bovine oocytes to 4 degrees C for 24 h in the presence of type I alanine rich alpha helical antifreeze polypeptides (AFP) from winter flounder, type II cysteine-rich AFP from sea raven or type III AFP from ocean pout. The presence of AFP in the incubation medium resulted in an approximate four fold increase in the number of oocytes retaining an intact oolemma and a three fold increase in the number of oocytes able to undergo in vitro maturation. None of the control oocytes could be fertilized, whereas, of those incubated in AFP, the percentage which developed normally following fertilization was comparable to that observed for fresh oocytes. These results indicate that cold-sensitive mammalian cells can be rendered cold-tolerant through the addition of "antifreeze" proteins.}, }
@article {pmid1936158, year = {1991}, author = {Hudson, SJ and Lightfoot, NF and Coulson, JC and Russell, K and Sisson, PR and Sobo, AO}, title = {Jackdaws and magpies as vectors of milkborne human Campylobacter infection.}, journal = {Epidemiology and infection}, volume = {107}, number = {2}, pages = {363-372}, pmid = {1936158}, issn = {0950-2688}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Animals ; *Birds ; Campylobacter Infections/*transmission ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Disease Vectors ; England ; Female ; Humans ; Infant ; Interviews as Topic ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Milk/*microbiology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Telephone ; }, abstract = {In 1990 we reported that milk bottles pecked by jackdaws and magpies were a probable source of human campylobacter infection. During April to June 1990 an extended study of campylobacter infections was carried out in the Gateshead area. Prior to the study a health education programme was undertaken in an attempt to reduce human infection. Fifty-nine cases of human infection were recorded and 52 were interviewed. Thirty were entered into a case control study which demonstrated a very strong association between consumption of pecked milk and human campylobacter infection (chi 2 = 12.6, P less than 0.0004). It was estimated that between 500 and 1000 jackdaws (Corvus monedula) were present in the area where milk bottles were pecked and 63 isolates of campylobacter were made from the bill and cloaca. Target bottles were put out in the early mornings and campylobacters were isolated from 12 of 123 pecked bottles. Typing of the campylobacters revealed a wide distribution of strains amongst birds, pecked milk and human infections. The health education programme had only limited success.}, }
@article {pmid1916745, year = {1991}, author = {Cabello, PH and Krieger, H}, title = {Note on estimates of the inbreeding coefficient through study of pedigrees and isonymous marriages.}, journal = {Human biology}, volume = {63}, number = {5}, pages = {719-723}, pmid = {1916745}, issn = {0018-7143}, mesh = {Brazil ; *Consanguinity ; *Marriage ; *Models, Genetic ; *Names ; *Pedigree ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {Crow and Mange (1965) developed a method to estimate the inbreeding coefficient (F) through an ingenious surname analysis. Such formulations assume a regularity of transmission of surnames, monophyletism, and random occurrence of consanguineous marriages. Accordingly, the ratio of isonymous partners to F of the offspring is equal to 4. Nevertheless, genealogy analyses show that the consanguineous marriages do not necessarily occur regularly. Therefore the isonymy analysis gives a misestimation of the inbreeding coefficient, depending on the prevailing form of nonrandomness. We suggest a small correction to the formulation in situations when pedigree information is available. The weighted mean of the ratio of isonymous partners to F of the known consanguineous marriages is suggested as a way to improve the formulas. The technique was applied to a northeastern Brazilian sample, and the results agree well with those of bioassays and therefore provide an apparently more realistic estimate of the inbreeding coefficient by isonymy.}, }
@article {pmid1916740, year = {1991}, author = {Rogers, AR}, title = {Doubts about isonymy.}, journal = {Human biology}, volume = {63}, number = {5}, pages = {663-668}, pmid = {1916740}, issn = {0018-7143}, support = {1 R29 GM39593-01/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Consanguinity ; Female ; *Gene Frequency ; Humans ; Male ; *Models, Genetic ; *Names ; Reproducibility of Results ; }, abstract = {The method of isonymy, developed by Crow and Mange for estimating inbreeding from surname frequencies, requires an assumption that has not been appreciated: It is necessary to assume that all males in some ancestral generation, the founding stock, had unique surnames. Because this assumption is seldom justified in real populations, the applicability of the isonymy method is extremely limited. Even worse, the estimates it provides refer to an unspecified founding stock, and this implies that these estimates are devoid of information.}, }
@article {pmid1744593, year = {1991}, author = {Olson, DJ}, title = {Species differences in spatial memory among Clark's nutcrackers, scrub jays, and pigeons.}, journal = {Journal of experimental psychology. Animal behavior processes}, volume = {17}, number = {4}, pages = {363-376}, doi = {10.1037//0097-7403.17.4.363}, pmid = {1744593}, issn = {0097-7403}, support = {MH44200/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Appetitive Behavior ; *Birds ; *Columbidae ; Conditioning, Operant ; *Mental Recall ; *Orientation ; Retention, Psychology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {An operant nonmatching to sample procedure was used to compare the spatial memory abilities of 3 avian species. A trial consisted of the presentation of a spatially defined sample, a delay interval, and a 2-choice test during which the correct location was the new location. A single spatial location served as the sample in Experiment 1. The delay interval was manipulated using a titration procedure. In Experiment 2, 1, 2, or 3 sequentially illuminated locations served as the sample. The delay was 1 of 4 predetermined intervals. In Experiment 3, sample presentation was the same as Experiment 2, but the delay interval was titrated. In all of the experiments, the performance of nutcrackers was consistently better than the performance of scrub jays and pigeons (Experiment 1) and was correlated with differences in their foraging ecology.}, }
@article {pmid1935002, year = {1991}, author = {Campbell, CB and Hodos, W}, title = {The Scala naturae revisited: evolutionary scales and anagenesis in comparative psychology.}, journal = {Journal of comparative psychology (Washington, D.C. : 1983)}, volume = {105}, number = {3}, pages = {211-221}, doi = {10.1037/0735-7036.105.3.211}, pmid = {1935002}, issn = {0735-7036}, support = {EY00735/EY/NEI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Adaptation, Physiological ; Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Humans ; *Phylogeny ; *Psychology, Comparative ; *Social Environment ; }, abstract = {Recent suggestions that evolutionary scales have a place in theorization about the evolution of behavior have been based on the concept of anagenesis, formerly associated with notions of biological progress. An associated concept is that of grades, often used as units of anagenetic advance. Advocates of anagenetic analysis in comparative psychology cite the writings of biologists Bernard Rensch, Julian Huxley, George Gaylord Simpson, and Stephen Jay Gould to support the usefulness of anagenesis but treat the positions of each of these theorists as if they were the same. In fact, they differ considerably in their definition of anagenesis and in its application to specific issues in evolution. The anagenetic approach is criticized as axiological and frequently anthropocentric. Although the formation of grades can be useful, a sequence of grades must not be assumed to represent historical stages in the evolution of specific structures or behaviors.}, }
@article {pmid1891123, year = {1991}, author = {Bargagliotti, LA and Jones, DL and Trygstad, L and Hayward, M and Crow, G and Bower, FL}, title = {Joint venture arrangement for RN to BSN. A model of synergy between academia and service.}, journal = {Nursing &amp; health care : official publication of the National League for Nursing}, volume = {12}, number = {7}, pages = {380-384}, pmid = {1891123}, issn = {0276-5284}, mesh = {Advertising ; Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate/*organization &amp; administration ; Education, Professional, Retraining/*organization &amp; administration ; Humans ; *Interinstitutional Relations ; Multi-Institutional Systems/*organization &amp; administration ; Program Evaluation ; San Francisco ; Schools, Nursing/*organization &amp; administration ; }, abstract = {The joint venture between or among educational and practice institutions is fast becoming the norm in nursing education and practice. Authors Bargagliotti, Jones, Trygstad, Hayward, Crow, and Bower, describe one such program enabling RNs to pursue the BSN degree.}, }
@article {pmid1875943, year = {1991}, author = {Green, JE}, title = {trans activation of nerve growth factor in transgenic mice containing the human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I tax gene.}, journal = {Molecular and cellular biology}, volume = {11}, number = {9}, pages = {4635-4641}, pmid = {1875943}, issn = {0270-7306}, mesh = {Animals ; Base Sequence ; Cell Line ; DNA ; DNA Mutational Analysis ; *Genes, pX ; Human T-lymphotropic virus 1/*genetics ; Mice ; Mice, Transgenic ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Nerve Growth Factors/*genetics ; Neurofibroma ; Promoter Regions, Genetic ; *Transcriptional Activation ; Tumor Cells, Cultured ; }, abstract = {Three lines of transgenic mice containing the human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I) tax gene develop neurofibromas composed of perineural fibroblasts (S. H. Hinrichs, M. Nerenberg, R. K. Reynolds, G. Khoury, and G. Jay, Science 237:1340-1343, 1987; M. Nerenberg, S. H. Hinrichs, R. K. Reynolds, G. Khoury, and G. Jay, Science 237:1324-1327, 1987). Tumors and tumor cell lines derived from these mice produce neurite outgrowth from PC-12 cells and nerve growth factor (NGF), as determined by RNA (Northern) blot analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. In vitro cotransfection studies demonstrate that Tax is able to trans activate the NGF promoter in NIH 3T3 fibroblast cells. The major cis-acting tax-responsive element in the NGF promoter (AGGGTGTGACGA) has 92% homology with a tax-responsive element contained within the 21-bp repeats of the HTLV-I long terminal repeat. The receptor for NGF is also expressed in the transgenic tumor cells, suggesting that Tax may activate an autocrine mechanism through the upregulation of NGF.}, }
@article {pmid1838095, year = {1991}, author = {Turaeva, SH and Bol'shakova, LP and Revazov, AA and Nekrasova, EP and Orazova, GA and Kirova, MA}, title = {[Influence of urbanization level on the lethal load and on the intensity of natural selection in the Turkmen population].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {27}, number = {9}, pages = {1617-1625}, pmid = {1838095}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Genes, Lethal/*genetics ; Humans ; Rural Population/statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Selection, Genetic ; Turkmenistan/ethnology ; *Urbanization ; }, abstract = {Dynamics of genetic load in aboriginal population of the Turkmen SSR was studied using two approaches to calculate "lethal" equivalents. Intensity and structure of natural selection were measured using the Crow's index and its components. All statistics indicated were determined using the data obtained in Ashkhabad city and in two rural populations of Ashkhabad region (Yasman and Nokhur) within the time interval prior to 60s and after 70s. The results obtained made it possible to subdivide the populations under study into three different groups according to different stages of demographic process: 1) urbanized population; 2) rural (transient) population; 3) "relict" rural population.}, }
@article {pmid1745729, year = {1991}, author = {Yoerg, SI}, title = {Ecological frames of mind: the role of cognition in behavioral ecology.}, journal = {The Quarterly review of biology}, volume = {66}, number = {3}, pages = {287-301}, doi = {10.1086/417243}, pmid = {1745729}, issn = {0033-5770}, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological ; Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Cognition ; *Ecology ; Memory ; Models, Psychological ; }, abstract = {Cognitive psychology is the study of how information, from the senses and from memory, is used in the production of behavior. Investigation of the specifics of behavioral adaptation has already led some behavioral ecologists into the domain of animal cognition. I make several arguments for the benefits and the necessity of a sophisticated assessment by ecologists of the cognitive aspects of behavioral adaptation. First, because cognition typically serves to produce adaptive behavior, cognitive structure and function should reflect ecological demands; studies of cognition in ecological contexts are opportunities to understand adaptation. Furthermore, constraints on cognitive properties may help determine how behavior meets the environment. Studies of spatial memory in food-caching corvids exemplify how cognitive aspects of behavior may both reflect and determine specifics of adaptation. Second, many models in behavioral ecology assume certain cognitive abilities, such as timing or counting. Cognitive theory and methodology should be used to determine whether animals possess these abilities. I have provided examples. Third, consideration of cognitive function can lead to original ideas about the details of behavioral adaptation. Without a thorough integration of cognitive psychology with behavioral ecology, our understanding of the relation between behavior and selective pressures will be compromised.}, }
@article {pmid1652757, year = {1991}, author = {Ylinen, AM and Miettinen, R and Pitkänen, A and Gulyas, AI and Freund, TF and Riekkinen, PJ}, title = {Enhanced GABAergic inhibition preserves hippocampal structure and function in a model of epilepsy.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {88}, number = {17}, pages = {7650-7653}, pmid = {1652757}, issn = {0027-8424}, mesh = {4-Aminobutyrate Transaminase/metabolism ; Animals ; Electric Stimulation ; Electroencephalography ; Epilepsy/pathology/*physiopathology ; Hippocampus/pathology/*physiology/physiopathology ; Male ; Models, Neurological ; Neurons/cytology/pathology/physiology ; Rats ; Rats, Inbred Strains ; Synapses/physiology ; Synaptic Transmission ; gamma-Aminobutyric Acid/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Extensive electrical stimulation of the perforant pathway input to the hippocampus results in a characteristic pattern of neuronal death, which is accompanied by an impairment of cognitive functions similar to that seen in human temporal lobe epilepsy. The excitotoxic hypothesis of epileptic cell death [Olney, J. W. (1978) in Kainic Acid as a Tool in Neurobiology, eds. McGeer, E., Olney, J. W. &amp; McGeer, P. (Raven, New York), pp. 95-121; Olney, J. W. (1983) in Excitotoxins, eds. Fuxe, K., Roberts, P. J. &amp; Schwartch, R. (Wenner-Gren International Symposium Series, Macmillan, London), Vol. 39, pp. 82-96; and Rothman, S. M. &amp; Olney, J. W. (1986) Ann. Neurol. 19, 105-111] predicts an imbalance between excitation and inhibition, which occurs probably as a result of hyperactivity in afferent pathways or impaired inhibition. In the present study, we investigated whether the enhancement of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-mediated (GABAergic) inhibition of neurotransmission by blocking the GABA-metabolizing enzyme, GABA transaminase, could influence the histopathological and/or the behavioral outcome in this epilepsy model. We demonstrate that the loss of pyramidal cells and hilar somatostatin-containing neurons can be abolished by enhancing the level of synaptically released GABA, and that the preservation of hippocampal structure is accompanied by a significant sparing of spatial memory as compared with placebo-treated controls. These results suggest that enhanced GABAergic inhibition can effectively block the pathophysiological processes that lead to excitotoxic cell death and, as a result, protect the brain from seizure-induced cognitive impairment.}, }
@article {pmid1942531, year = {1991}, author = {Fujii, H and Yashige, H and Kanoh, T and Urata, Y}, title = {[Progression from Crow-Fukase syndrome with double gammopathy (IgM-kappa, IgG-lambda) to primary macroglobulinemia].}, journal = {[Rinsho ketsueki] The Japanese journal of clinical hematology}, volume = {32}, number = {8}, pages = {890-896}, pmid = {1942531}, issn = {0485-1439}, mesh = {Aged ; Female ; Humans ; Hypergammaglobulinemia/*immunology ; Immunoglobulin G/*analysis ; Immunoglobulin M/*analysis ; Immunoglobulin kappa-Chains/*analysis ; Immunoglobulin lambda-Chains/*analysis ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications/immunology ; Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia/*immunology ; }, abstract = {This report deals with a case of double gammopathy (IgM-kappa, IgG-lambda) with Crow-Fukase syndrome, which developed into primary macroglobulinemia four years after the diagnosis. In May 1980, a 74-year-old woman was admitted to the hospital because of a rapid progression of peripheral neuropathy. The patient was diagnosed as having Crow-Fukase syndrome from the following data: albumin-cytologic dissociation of cerebrospinal fluid, peripheral edema, diffuse hyperpigmentation of the skin, diabetic glucose intolerance, serum double gammopathy (IgM-kappa, IgG-lambda) and hepatomegaly. The administration of prednisolone yielded the improvement of neuropathy. In December 1984, serum IgM level was increased from 104 mg/dl to 3,025 mg/dl. Plasma cells in the bone marrow increased in the percentage from 5.6% to 18.4%, and then Bence Jones protein (kappa type) was excreted in the urine. No antibody activity to myelin antigens was detected in the serum. The patient died of cerebral infarction in 1985. At postmortem examination, lymphomatous involvement was found in the jejunum. At the immunohistological examination of the tumor specimens, the morphology and the distribution of IgM- and IgG-positive cells corresponded to that of kappa- and lambda-positive cells, respectively. A small number of cells containing both kappa and lambda light chains were also demonstrated. It seems likely that IgM (kappa)- and IgG (lambda)-positive cells were derived from the common precursor cells.}, }
@article {pmid1934663, year = {1991}, author = {Fukatsu, A and Tamai, H and Nishikawa, K and Matsukawa, W and Yoshida, F and Matsuo, S and Takeda, A and Kodera, K and Morozumi, K and Ito, Y}, title = {The kidney disease of Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome: a clinico-pathological study of four cases.}, journal = {Clinical nephrology}, volume = {36}, number = {2}, pages = {76-82}, pmid = {1934663}, issn = {0301-0430}, mesh = {Aged ; Biopsy ; Female ; Glomerulonephritis/*etiology/pathology ; Humans ; Kidney Glomerulus/chemistry/*pathology ; Male ; Microscopy, Electron ; Microscopy, Fluorescence ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*complications/pathology ; }, abstract = {We studied four cases of Crow-Fukase syndrome with renal dysfunction. Kidney specimens obtained by needle biopsy showed glomerular lesions resembling those seen in conditions characterized by microangiopathy. Common glomerular findings by light microscopy were mesangial expansion and narrowing of the capillary lumina. An enlarged subendothelial space and mesangial area with deposition of amorphous material as well as swelling and vacuolization of endothelial cells were observed by electron microscopy. In an active phase, severe mesangial edema and segmental mesangiolysis, and in a late stage, mesangial cell interposition and sclerosis were seen. Tests by immunofluorescence microscopy for the presence of immunoglobulins A, M, G, lambda and kappa light chains, C3, and C4 were negative. Decay accelerating factor was found in glomeruli and in the vascular pole. Other findings included lymph node angiosclerosis, peripheral nerve microangiopathy and hemangioma formation with endothelial cell proliferation. These observations suggest that chronic endothelial injury constitutes the basic pathology of Crow-Fukase syndrome. Hemodialysis was required to manage anasarca in three of the patients although serum creatinine levels were below 5.0 mg/dl. Urinalysis revealed mild abnormalities and did not reflect the severity of the glomerular lesion. Corticosteroids given to three of the patients were effective in controlling fever and the lymphadenopathy; in two cases the corticosteroids induced a recovery of renal function. Thus Crow-Fukase syndrome may be due to chronic endothelial injury; the clinical symptoms and renal involvement respond to corticosteroid therapy.}, }
@article {pmid1897579, year = {1991}, author = {Cianchetti, C and Sannio-Fancello, G and Fratta, AL and Manconi, F and Orano, A and Pischedda, MP and Pruna, D and Spinicci, G and Archidiacono, N and Filippi, G}, title = {Neuropsychological, psychiatric, and physical manifestations in 149 members from 18 fragile X families.}, journal = {American journal of medical genetics}, volume = {40}, number = {2}, pages = {234-243}, doi = {10.1002/ajmg.1320400222}, pmid = {1897579}, issn = {0148-7299}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Autistic Disorder ; Child ; Face/abnormalities ; Female ; Fragile X Syndrome/genetics/*psychology ; *Heterozygote ; Humans ; Hyperkinesis ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; }, abstract = {One hundred forty-nine subjects from 18 families with fragile X [fra(X)] syndrome were evaluated for their neuropsychological, psychiatric, and physical characteristics. The 36 fra(X) males had intelligence quotients ranging from less than 20 to 61, which prevented the delineation of a reliable neuropsychological profile. Behaviour fitted DSM-III-R and ADI diagnostic criteria of autism in only 2 subjects, both with very low intelligence level (IQ less than 20). Of 36 heterozygotes (HZ), 22 had an IQ between 20 and 80 and 14 between 81 and 99. The neuropsychological profile of the latter was compared with IQ-age-environment-matched 14 normal females and 14 normal males. Significantly poorer results in HZ were found on immediate digit memory and on Raven's progressive matrices (a visuo-spatial test of logical capabilities). The latter result, in conjunction with those results on the Bender visual-motor gestalt test and on some WAIS subtests, suggests a frequent deficit in spatial capabilities in such subjects. Such results tended to be confirmed by the profiles of the 22 HZ with IQ 20-80. No psychiatric abnormalities were found in HZ, except in one subject with IQ less than 20 which fitted DSM-III-R and ADI criteria for autism. Typical physical manifestations, especially cranio-facial, were more frequently present in the HZ group with lower IQ. Subnormal IQ was probably the most reliable abnormality for the detection of HZ in 49 females at 50% and 25% risk of heterozygosity.}, }
@article {pmid1872815, year = {1991}, author = {Damiani, E and Margreth, A}, title = {Subcellular fractionation to junctional sarcoplasmic reticulum and biochemical characterization of 170 kDa Ca(2+)- and low-density-lipoprotein-binding protein in rabbit skeletal muscle.}, journal = {The Biochemical journal}, volume = {277 (Pt 3)}, number = {Pt 3}, pages = {825-832}, pmid = {1872815}, issn = {0264-6021}, mesh = {Animals ; Calcium-Binding Proteins/*chemistry/metabolism ; Cell Compartmentation ; Lipoproteins, LDL/*metabolism ; Male ; Membrane Proteins/chemistry/metabolism ; Molecular Weight ; Phosphoproteins/chemistry ; Proteins/*chemistry/metabolism ; Rabbits ; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum/*chemistry/metabolism ; Solubility ; Subcellular Fractions/metabolism ; Trypsin/pharmacology ; Histidine-Rich Glycoprotein ; }, abstract = {Skeletal-muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) comprises two distinct domains, corresponding to the free membrane of longitudinal SR (LSR) and the junctional membrane region of the terminal cisternae (TC), respectively. The junctional membrane contains the ryanodine receptor (RyR)/Ca(2+)-release channel and additional minor protein components that still require biochemical investigation, in relation to excitation-contraction coupling. Recent findings suggested the involvement in this process of a 170 kDa protein [Kim, Caswell, Talvenheimo &amp; Brandt (1990) Biochemistry 29, 9281-9289], also characterized as a phosphoprotein in junctional TC in independent studies [Chu, Submilla, Inesi, Jay &amp; Campbell (1990) Biochemistry 29, 5899-5905]. We show that this protein is a specific substrate of exogenous cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase, that it is exposed to the outer surface of intact TC vesicles, and that it co-localizes with the RyR to the junctional membrane. Comparative analysis of LSR and TC subfractions for the 160 kDa glycoprotein sarcalumenin, using Western-blot techniques and specific monoclonal antibodies or concanavalin A as a ligand, revealed that the distribution of this protein within the SR corresponds inversely to both that of the RyR and of the 170 kDa protein. The 170 kDa protein, like sarcalumenin, stains blue with the cationic dye Stains-All and binds 45Ca2+ on blots, but it is uniquely distinguished by its ability to bind 125I-labelled low-density lipoprotein. The similarity of these properties, as well as the pI and solubility properties, to those described for the SR protein, recently purified and cloned and named histidine-rich Ca(2+)-binding protein [HCP; Hofmann, Brown, Lee, Pathak, Anderson &amp; Goldstein (1989) J. Biol. Chem. 264, 8260-8270], makes it very likely that our protein and HCP may indeed be identical. The protein described in the present study differs from sarcalumenin because its migration in SDS/PAGE is accelerated in the presence of Ca2+, a previously reported property of other Ca(2+)-binding proteins [leMaire, Lund, Viel, Champeil &amp; Moller (1989) J. Biol. Chem. 265, 1111-1123], arguing for Ca(2+)-induced protein-conformational changes. Kinase-dependent phosphorylation of our protein is another distinguishing feature, which, although not previously reported for HCP, is consistent with the presence of potential serine/threonine phosphorylation sites in the middle portion of the cloned HCP molecule. The finding that HCP, contrary to early views, selectively binds to the cytoplasmic side of the junctional membrane, together with its newly characterized properties, seem to provide new clues as to a possible role in electromechanical coupling and/or Ca2+ release.}, }
@article {pmid1885379, year = {1991}, author = {Chapman, AB}, title = {Jay Laurence Lush 1896-1982: a brief biography.}, journal = {Journal of animal science}, volume = {69}, number = {7}, pages = {2671-2676}, doi = {10.2527/1991.6972671x}, pmid = {1885379}, issn = {0021-8812}, mesh = {Animal Husbandry/history ; History, 20th Century ; Iowa ; Texas ; }, }
@article {pmid1879671, year = {1991}, author = {Schmidt, LG and Bradshaw, SD and Follett, BK}, title = {Plasma levels of luteinizing hormone and androgens in relation to age and breeding status among cooperatively breeding Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen Latham).}, journal = {General and comparative endocrinology}, volume = {83}, number = {1}, pages = {48-55}, doi = {10.1016/0016-6480(91)90104-e}, pmid = {1879671}, issn = {0016-6480}, mesh = {Aging ; Animals ; Birds/*blood/growth &amp; development/physiology ; Breeding ; Dihydrotestosterone/*blood ; Luteinizing Hormone/*blood ; Male ; Sexual Behavior, Animal/physiology ; Testosterone/*blood ; }, abstract = {Plasma levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (T), and 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) were measured in relation to age and social/breeding status among free-living male Australian magpies. Magpies live in territorial groups of up to 20 individuals and due to a largely age-related dominance hierarchy among males, many individuals are prevented from breeding. Adult plumage is not attained until the fourth year, but males can produce motile sperm in their first year. Plasma levels of LH and T peaked just prior to egg-laying among breeding males, but DHT levels remained steady or declined slightly during the breeding period. Adults (greater than 3.5 years) had significantly higher levels of both LH and androgens than did subadults (less than 3.5 years) during the breeding season. Nonbreeding adults had similar levels to those found among the breeding adults, but breeding subadults had higher levels of both LH and androgens than the nonbreeding subadults. These results are interpreted in terms of the opportunities for each of these classes to obtain copulations and are discussed in relation to age-related hormonal secretion in other species.}, }
@article {pmid1823585, year = {1991}, author = {Negru, T and Antochi, F}, title = {Study on some reactivity aspects in chronical psychic-organic syndrome.}, journal = {Revue roumaine de physiologie (Bucharest, Romania : 1990)}, volume = {28}, number = {3-4}, pages = {89-104}, pmid = {1823585}, issn = {1220-840X}, mesh = {Aged ; Chronic Disease ; Hormones/*blood ; Humans ; Immunochemistry ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neurocognitive Disorders/*metabolism/psychology ; Psychological Tests ; }, abstract = {In the present work, a number of patients with chronic psychic-organic syndromes, with confuse states, with the exaggeration of some personality features during the beginning period of brain atherosclerosis or senility was studied. The anamnestic and psycho-organic syndromes in different dysfunctions degrees, the evolution of dysfunctions with vascular determination, the deficiency of some intelligence compounds were also investigated. We tried to analyse the psychometric results and to distinguish the functional dysfunction from the organic one using Raven's test, Thurstone's scale, WAIS scale and test. We also tried to distinguish the intellectual decrease of medium and deep level. We studied the reactivity, the plasma level of ACTH, ACTH-stimulation test, integrity of the hypophyseo-hypothalamic test. The multitude of results of paraclinical analysis correspond to the multitude of clinical syndromes. These studies are preliminary for a more thorough research of the physiopathology of this kind of patients. The detailed investigation of these patients' specific nature reactivity offers a lot of possibilities used for therapy.}, }
@article {pmid1786657, year = {1991}, author = {Hitoshi, S and Okazawa, H and Shimizu, J and Suzuki, K and Sakuta, M}, title = {[A case of Crow-Fukase syndrome with increased serum interleukin-6].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {31}, number = {7}, pages = {730-733}, pmid = {1786657}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Factor VIII/*metabolism ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Hemangioma/complications ; Humans ; Interleukin-6/biosynthesis/*blood ; Middle Aged ; POEMS Syndrome/*blood/etiology ; Platelet Count ; Skin Neoplasms/complications ; Thrombosis/blood/etiology ; }, abstract = {We experienced a 47-year-old Japanese female with polyneuropathy, edema, hypertrichosis, hyperpigmentation, and white nail, which were diagnostic as having Crow-Fukase syndrome. Laboratory and radiological evaluation showed neither plasma cell dyscrasia nor monoclonal gammopathy. Increased factor VIII activity and thrombocytosis, which suggested thrombotic tendency, were observed at the exacerbation of clinical symptoms. In her third exacerbation, she presented marked cyanosis in her right foot, and angiography confirmed narrowing of arteries at the ankle. Increased serum interleukin-6 was also observed, and the production of interleukin-6 by endothelial cells of cutaneous angioma was shown. Possible role of interleukin-6 in Crow-Fukase syndrome was discussed.}, }
@article {pmid1683623, year = {1991}, author = {Vanelle, JM and Loloum, T}, title = {[Principles of chemotherapy of paranoid schizophrenia].}, journal = {L'Encephale}, volume = {17}, number = {4}, pages = {235-240}, pmid = {1683623}, issn = {0013-7006}, mesh = {Antipsychotic Agents/*therapeutic use ; Drug Therapy, Combination ; Humans ; Psychotropic Drugs/*therapeutic use ; Schizophrenia, Paranoid/*drug therapy ; }, abstract = {The pharmacological treatment for paranoid schizophrenia is based on antipsychotic drugs. Their actions is only suspensive but not curative. In 1980 Crow proposed a division of schizophrenia in two major syndromes, type 1 being characterized by prominent positive symptoms. Andreasen in 1982 suggested similar criteria for positive subtype. Many others have described schizophrenia subtypes over the years. The paranoid schizophrenia criteria are very close to Crow's type 1 criteria. Since chlorpromazine was synthetized in France in 1952, the French speaking psychiatrists have classified neuroleptics according to their therapeutic efficacy and their side effects. So Deniker and Ginestet categorized neuroleptics on the basis of their behavioural efficacy and distinguished sedative neuroleptics from anti-delusional neuroleptics and anti-autistic neuroleptics. French psychiatrists consider that there are qualitative differences between various neuroleptics. In USA, equivalent doses are established with chlorpromazine for many neuroleptic drugs, but equivalency doses are considered as crude at best by some, such as J.M. Kane. The typical neuroleptic treatment is reviewed: target symptoms, choice of drug, dosage, route of administration, combined medications, predictive clinical and biological parameters of response, duration of treatment. Failure to response to neuroleptic treatment is not uncommon. Some strategies are detailed for the treatment-resistant patients. Combination of neuroleptics like haloperidol + thioproperazine or haloperidol + trifluoperazine may be useful.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid1891324, year = {1991}, author = {Frey, PD and Pinelli, B}, title = {Visual discrimination and visuomotor integration among two classes of Brazilian children.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {72}, number = {3 Pt 1}, pages = {847-850}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1991.72.3.847}, pmid = {1891324}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Brazil ; Child ; *Cross-Cultural Comparison ; *Discrimination Learning ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Male ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Psychometrics ; *Psychomotor Performance ; *Social Class ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {The Raven Matrices, Beery, and Bender-Gestalt tests were given to 415 Brazilian children in public and private schools corresponding to two socioeconomic statuses. Both social class and grade in school influenced all scores more than age. The Raven Matrices appeared to be the most affected by social class differences. Visual-motor integration and visual discrimination skills were moderately (.47-.69) correlated, especially among the private school students. Maturational differences based on age and school grade were considered somewhat better assessed by the Beery than the Raven or Bender-Gestalt tests. The wide age range at each grade and the decreasing enrollment in higher grades makes interpretation difficult.}, }
@article {pmid2065259, year = {1991}, author = {Tartaglione, A and Inglese, ML and Bandini, F and Spadavecchia, L and Hamsher, K and Favale, E}, title = {Hemisphere asymmetry in decision making abilities. An experimental study in unilateral brain damage.}, journal = {Brain : a journal of neurology}, volume = {114 (Pt 3)}, number = {}, pages = {1441-1456}, doi = {10.1093/brain/114.3.1441}, pmid = {2065259}, issn = {0006-8950}, mesh = {Attention ; Brain Damage, Chronic/*physiopathology/psychology ; Choice Behavior ; *Decision Making ; *Functional Laterality ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Movement ; Reaction Time ; Reference Values ; }, abstract = {Thirty control subjects and 60 unilateral brain-damaged patients, 30 with left hemisphere (LH) damage and 30 with right hemisphere (RH) disease, underwent a disjunctive 4-choice reaction time study. Speed of reaction (as defined by the reciprocal of reaction time (RT), movement time (MT) and total response time (TRT] and accuracy of response (as represented by the sum of errors in selecting the correct response key) were investigated comparatively as a function of side of lesion and of performance on Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (PM47). In contrast to movement speed (1/MT), reaction speed (1/RT) as well as total response speed (1/TRT) showed a lesion effect independent of side of damage. Conversely, accuracy was differentially impaired, LH damage being associated with a significantly higher number of errors. Speed and accuracy had different relationships with the performance on the PM47 in the two hemisphere groups. Speed was affected in parallel with changes in PM47 performance both in the LH and in RH groups, whereas accuracy was altered only in LH patients. It was concluded that speed of motor reaction is affected by unilateral brain lesions irrespective of their side, whereas decision making processes, as expressed by accuracy of response, seem to be specifically impaired by LH damage.}, }
@article {pmid2063944, year = {1991}, author = {Garber, SL and Dyerly, LR}, title = {Wheelchair cushions for persons with spinal cord injury: an update.}, journal = {The American journal of occupational therapy : official publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association}, volume = {45}, number = {6}, pages = {550-554}, doi = {10.5014/ajot.45.6.550}, pmid = {2063944}, issn = {0272-9490}, mesh = {Beds/*standards/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Consumer Behavior ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Male ; Occupational Therapy/*standards ; Prescriptions/*standards ; Pressure Ulcer/etiology/*prevention &amp; control/psychology ; Spinal Cord Injuries/*complications ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Wheelchairs/*standards ; }, abstract = {Occupational therapists frequently prescribe wheelchair cushions to reduce the risk of pressure sores in patients with spinal cord injury. In an earlier study (Garber, 1985b), Roho cushions were prescribed for the greatest number of subjects studied. The present study of 197 subjects updates these data and describes current prescription patterns, the use of cushions over time, satisfaction with prescribed cushions, and the occurrence of pressure sores with prescribed cushions. The study shows that the Jay cushion was prescribed most frequently for the current subjects, although it was not recommended for all persons with spinal cord injury. In the second phase of the present study, involving 30 subjects, 30% of the subjects discontinued use of the prescribed cushion. Skin breakdown and the discovery of alternative solutions were given as primary reasons. There was no significant difference in the incidence of pressure sores between subjects who continued to use their prescribed cushions and those who did not. This research supports the conclusion of earlier studies that no one wheelchair cushion is universally effective for all persons and that individual evaluation and routine reassessment are essential in reducing the occurrence of pressure sores.}, }
@article {pmid2053054, year = {1991}, author = {Hellbusch, LC}, title = {J. Jay Keegan, M.D.: 1889-1978.}, journal = {Surgical neurology}, volume = {35}, number = {6}, pages = {421-423}, doi = {10.1016/0090-3019(91)90173-7}, pmid = {2053054}, issn = {0090-3019}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Neurosurgery/history ; Skin/innervation ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid1874970, year = {1991}, author = {Rushbrook, JI and Weiss, C and Yao, TT}, title = {Developmental myosin heavy chain progression in avian type IIB muscle fibres.}, journal = {Journal of muscle research and cell motility}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, pages = {281-291}, pmid = {1874970}, issn = {0142-4319}, support = {AR34307/AR/NIAMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Amino Acids/analysis/metabolism ; Animals ; Chick Embryo ; Chickens/*metabolism ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid ; Chromatography, Ion Exchange ; Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel ; Gene Expression ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Muscles/chemistry/embryology/*metabolism ; Myosin Subfragments/analysis/genetics/*metabolism ; Myosins/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Myosin heavy chain species were investigated during development in avian pectoralis major muscles (type IIB fibres) by high resolution anion-exchange chromatography of the myosin head region, subfragment-1. At 15 days in ovo four distinct fast-type heavy chain species, I, II, III and IV, in order of elution, were identified. By 19 days in ovo, form IV had become predominant and remained the major species through 3-days post-hatch. This form has been named the peri-hatch form. Between 3 and 5 days post-hatch, a second massive change occurred such that by 5 days post-hatch a new species, V, apparent at 19 days in ovo in small amounts, dominated and at 8 days post-hatch was the only heavy chain species present. Form V, which corresponds to that previously identified as the post-hatch form, continued as the major species through 20 days post-hatch and was replaced slowly by the adult form. N-terminal sequencing of CNBr peptides from three subfragment-1 heavy chain species, the peri-hatch (form IV), the post-hatch (form V) and adult, revealed differences in amino acid sequence consistent with the three being products of different genes. These results confirm and extend recent reports of complexity in fast heavy chain expression prior to hatching in the chicken (Hofmann et al., 1988; Van Horn &amp; Crow, 1989).}, }
@article {pmid1799130, year = {1991}, author = {Larraguibel, M and Lolas Stepke, F}, title = {[Oral and written affective expression in children of low socioeconomic status].}, journal = {Acta psiquiatrica y psicologica de America latina}, volume = {37}, number = {2}, pages = {129-135}, pmid = {1799130}, issn = {0001-6896}, mesh = {Anxiety ; Child ; Chile ; Female ; Hostility ; Humans ; Male ; Psychological Tests ; *Psychology, Child ; Socioeconomic Factors ; *Verbal Behavior ; *Writing ; }, abstract = {Descriptive data on affective expression of 58 children (33 girls and 25 boys) of low socioeconomic status (Graffar index), with ages between 8 and 12 are presented. Intelligence was assessed by means of Raven Progressive Matrixes Test, all subjects exhibiting mean level. Evaluated were the six forms of anxiety and the four hostility forms defined by the Gottschalk method of verbal content analysis. Hope scores, positive and negative, were also obtained from the same verbal samples. The oral sample consisted in speech produced spontaneously during 5 minutes, in response to a standard instruction, and the written sample consisted in brief stories produced under standardized conditions during 15 minutes. The most frequently expressed form of anxiety was separation anxiety, while the most frequently expressed form of hostility was directed outwards covert hostility. "Positive" hope was expressed more frequently than "negative" hope. Data are discussed in terms of their contribution to the establishment of population norms in Spanish-speaking populations for the psychological constructs explored. It is concluded that the method of content analysis of verbal behavior may represent a useful tool for the study of child psychology in different contexts.}, }
@article {pmid2062992, year = {1991}, author = {Lighton, LL and Kaczmarski, EB and Jones, DM}, title = {A study of risk factors for Campylobacter infection in late spring.}, journal = {Public health}, volume = {105}, number = {3}, pages = {199-203}, doi = {10.1016/s0033-3506(05)80109-x}, pmid = {2062992}, issn = {0033-3506}, mesh = {Acute Disease ; Adult ; Animals ; Birds ; Campylobacter Infections/*epidemiology/microbiology/prevention &amp; control ; Case-Control Studies ; Diarrhea/epidemiology/etiology/microbiology ; England/epidemiology ; Enteritis/epidemiology/etiology/microbiology ; Feces/microbiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Risk Factors ; *Seasons ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {A case-control study was carried out to investigate possible reasons for the large increase in the number of cases of infection caused by Campylobacter species reported in the Regional Epidemiology Section of Manchester Public Health Laboratory in late spring each year. The hypothesis tested was that a risk factor peculiar to campylobacter infection is responsible for this phenomenon. Interviews about a wide variety of risk factors were conducted with 29 patients suffering from campylobacter enteritis and 41 out of a control group of 42 with acute diarrhoeal illness from other causes. The only statistically significant association with campylobacter infection was having had milk bottle tops pecked by birds, while previously recognised associated factors such as outdoor activities, pet ownership and consumption of chicken showed no significant association. Interviewees identified the birds responsible as magpies.}, }
@article {pmid2024984, year = {1991}, author = {Bhawan, J and Gonzalez-Serva, A and Nehal, K and Labadie, R and Lufrano, L and Thorne, EG and Gilchrest, BA}, title = {Effects of tretinoin on photodamaged skin. A histologic study.}, journal = {Archives of dermatology}, volume = {127}, number = {5}, pages = {666-672}, pmid = {2024984}, issn = {0003-987X}, mesh = {Administration, Cutaneous ; Adult ; Double-Blind Method ; Epidermis/drug effects/pathology ; *Face ; Female ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Keratinocytes/drug effects/pathology ; Male ; Melanins/analysis ; Melanocytes/drug effects/pathology ; Middle Aged ; Mucins ; Placebos ; Skin/chemistry/drug effects/*pathology ; Skin Aging/*drug effects ; Tretinoin/administration &amp; dosage/*therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {The histologic effects of topical tretinoin therapy on photodamaged facial skin were investigated in two 24-week, double-blind, randomized, vehicle-controlled studies involving 533 subjects at eight US centers. Three concentrations of tretinoin (0.05%, 0.01%, and 0.001%) in a new emollient cream were studied. Pretherapy and posttherapy biopsy specimens from the periorbital (crow's foot) area were examined by conventional light microscopy and computerized image analysis. Four significant dose-dependent differences from vehicle were found in the tretinoin groups: increased epidermal thickness, increased granular layer thickness, decreased melanin content, and stratum corneum compaction. There was no significant difference between 0.001% tretinoin and the vehicle, and no obvious dermal changes were detected in any group. The four epidermal changes in tretinoin-treated skin establish the biologic activity of the new emollient cream formulation and may partially account for the clinical improvements in photodamage observed in the same group of subjects.}, }
@article {pmid1916259, year = {1991}, author = {Timakov, VV and Kurbatova, OL}, title = {[Significance of indices of potential selection for residents of the USSR].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {27}, number = {5}, pages = {928-937}, pmid = {1916259}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Demography ; Ethnicity ; Female ; Fertility ; Fetal Death ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Male ; *Selection, Genetic ; USSR ; }, abstract = {Crow's indices of the opportunity for selection and their components connected with differential mortality (Im) and differential fertility (If) were estimated for populations of Soviet Union republics and for a number of USSR ethnic groups on the basis of demographic statistics. More than 10-fold decrease in the Im value was revealed in the total population of the USSR during 1926-1987. At present, the Im values in republics vary from 0.020 to 0.094 for urban population and from 0.030 to 0.121 in rural population, the ratio of perinatal mortality in the whole structure of prereproductive mortality being higher in the republics with lower values of the Im. The range of the If values for different peoples (0.148-0.643) is wider than for the populations of the republics (0.326-0.578). Interethnic differences contribute 47% of the variance in fertility. The structure of Crow's indices is given for urban and rural populations of the republics. Genetic implications of the data presented are discussed with respect to possible manifestation of the effects of inter-group selection.}, }
@article {pmid2009098, year = {1991}, author = {Thompson, HM and Mackness, MI and Walker, CH and Hardy, AR}, title = {Species differences in avian serum B esterases revealed by chromatofocusing and possible relationships of esterase activity to pesticide toxicity.}, journal = {Biochemical pharmacology}, volume = {41}, number = {8}, pages = {1235-1240}, doi = {10.1016/0006-2952(91)90663-p}, pmid = {2009098}, issn = {0006-2952}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*blood ; Butyrylcholinesterase/*blood ; Carboxylesterase ; Carboxylic Ester Hydrolases/*blood ; Isoelectric Point ; Pesticides/*toxicity ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Serum cholinesterase (BChE) and carboxylesterase (CbE) activities were investigated in ten species of birds. Multiple forms of serum BChE and CbE were also separated by chromatofocusing. Higher CbE activity and a wider range of CbE and BChE forms were present in the sera of omnivorous/herbivorous birds than carnivores. Omnivores/herbivores studied were the starling, house sparrow, tree sparrow, pigeon, partridge and magpie. Serum CbE activities of these species ranged from 0.46 to 2.93 mumol/min/mL with 2-6 forms separated by chromatofocusing. 0-6 forms of BChE were separated by the same method. The serum CbE activities of the little owl, tawny owl, barn owl and razorbill ranged from 0.19 to 0.58 mumoles/min/mL with 0-2 forms separated by chromatofocusing. No ChE forms were present within the pH gradient. These results may be significant in contributing to the understanding of the selective toxicity of organophosphorus and carbamate pesticides.}, }
@article {pmid1888577, year = {1991}, author = {Kawaguchi, Y and Nagasato, K and Yoshimura, T and Motomura, M and Tsujihata, M and Nagataki, S}, title = {[A case of Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura].}, journal = {No to shinkei = Brain and nerve}, volume = {43}, number = {4}, pages = {377-380}, pmid = {1888577}, issn = {0006-8969}, mesh = {Adult ; Autoantibodies/metabolism ; Autoimmune Diseases/complications ; Axons/physiology ; Blood Platelets/immunology ; Edema/*complications ; Humans ; Immunoglobulin G/metabolism ; Male ; Nerve Degeneration ; Pigmentation Disorders/*complications ; Polyneuropathies/*complications/physiopathology ; Purpura, Thrombocytopenic/*complications/immunology ; Sural Nerve/physiopathology ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {A 40-year-old man was admitted to our hospital because of paresthesia and weakness of the limbs. At the age of 38, he was diagnosed as having an idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) which have been refractory to oral administration of prednisolone and splenectomy. Platelet-associated IgG was elevated markedly at that time. It was, however, only mildly elevated on this admission. He showed polyneuritis, generalized pigmentation, hirsutism, and marked edema on the legs. The bone X-ray disclosed a lytic lesion in the left iliac bone, which was confirmed as a plasmacytoma by bone biopsy. Axonal degeneration with marked loss of myelinated figure was seen on sural nerve biopsy. Serum immunoelectrophoresis revealed his monoclonal IgG was lambda type. Then, he was diagnosed as having a Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with ITP. Plasma exchange, pulse therapy, and irradiation to plasmacytoma resulted in a slight improvement of the polyneuritis and the skin symptoms, and a disappearance of edema. However, ITP has not responded to these therapies. Although the same autoimmune mechanism is suggested in these conditions, we could not clarify how this monoclonal IgG produce both polyneuritis and ITP.}, }
@article {pmid1652645, year = {1991}, author = {Lawler, KA and Lacy, J and Armstead, CA and Lawler, JE}, title = {Family history of hypertension, gender, and cardiovascular responsivity during stress.}, journal = {Journal of behavioral medicine}, volume = {14}, number = {2}, pages = {169-186}, pmid = {1652645}, issn = {0160-7715}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Blood Pressure/physiology ; Female ; *Heart Rate/physiology ; Humans ; Hypertension/etiology/*genetics ; Male ; Prospective Studies ; Reaction Time ; Receptors, Adrenergic, beta/physiology ; Risk Factors ; Sex Factors ; Stress, Psychological/*complications ; Task Performance and Analysis ; }, abstract = {The relationships of family history of hypertension and gender to cardiovascular responses to stress were investigated in this research. One hundred twenty-three subjects were monitored while they rested and performed two tasks, reaction time and Ravens progressive matrices. Positive-family history males exhibited higher levels of systolic blood pressure than the negative male group and higher levels of rate pressure product than the positive-family history female group. Positive-family history males also had heart rate levels as high as the females. Female subjects did not differ from each other based on family history. In addition, subjects were grouped by gender and by high- or low-heart rate reactivity. The results suggest that heart rate reactivity has equally broad effects on cardiovascular function for males and females; for males, this reactivity during rests and tasks also tends to be associated with family history of hypertension.}, }
@article {pmid2030135, year = {1991}, author = {O'Leary, UM and Rusch, KM and Guastello, SJ}, title = {Estimating age-stratified WAIS-R IQS from scores on the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {47}, number = {2}, pages = {277-284}, doi = {10.1002/1097-4679(199103)47:2&lt;277::aid-jclp2270470215&gt;3.0.co;2-i}, pmid = {2030135}, issn = {0021-9762}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Ambulatory Care ; Hospitalization ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/*standards/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Mental Disorders/classification/diagnosis/*psychology ; Middle Aged ; Psychometrics ; Racial Groups ; Regression Analysis ; Wechsler Scales/*standards/statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {Total scores of the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) were correlated with Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised Full Scale IQs (WAIS-R FSIQ) in order to obtain age-stratified estimates of WAIS-R FSIQ (N = 308). Results show a significant positive correlation between age-stratified WAIS-R FSIQ and SPM in all age groups except those 65 and older and between educational level and SPM for all age groups except the very young (16 to 24 years), the 55- to 64-year-olds, and the elderly (65 and older). A multiple regression and cross-validation revealed that race and age also must be used as moderator variables when one is predicting FSIQ in this population. It is concluded that the SPM can be used as an estimate of WAIS-R FSIQ.}, }
@article {pmid2030133, year = {1991}, author = {Vincent, KR}, title = {Black/white IQ differences: does age make the difference?.}, journal = {Journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {47}, number = {2}, pages = {266-270}, doi = {10.1002/1097-4679(199103)47:2&lt;266::aid-jclp2270470213&gt;3.0.co;2-s}, pmid = {2030133}, issn = {0021-9762}, mesh = {Achievement ; Adult ; *Black or African American ; Age Factors ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Civil Rights/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/standards/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Psychometrics ; United States ; Wechsler Scales/standards/statistics &amp; numerical data ; *White People ; }, abstract = {Data are presented on racial differences from the norms of the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children, the recent renorming of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised, the Stanford-Binet IV, and Raven's Progressive Matrices. The premise of the present article is that, while the one standard deviation IQ difference between Black and White adults has remained constant, IQ differences between Black and White children are declining. These data are discussed in the context of previous studies on possible racial bias of IQ tests, as well as marked changes in educational and economic opportunities that have occurred in the United States in the decades since Jensen's (1969) article.}, }
@article {pmid2019516, year = {1991}, author = {Fleming, J}, title = {Child health and education in Kenyan schools programmes.}, journal = {Health visitor}, volume = {64}, number = {3}, pages = {80-81}, pmid = {2019516}, issn = {0017-9140}, mesh = {Child ; Community Health Nursing/*organization &amp; administration/standards ; Health Education/*organization &amp; administration/standards ; Humans ; Kenya ; School Health Services/*organization &amp; administration/standards ; }, abstract = {Jane Fleming describes the health education in schools programme launched by the Aga Khan Health Services in Kisumu, Kenya. The project has brought major improvements in child health and mortality rates as well as better health awareness to the community as a whole.}, }
@article {pmid1887655, year = {1991}, author = {Krause, W and Voigt, C and Donczik, J and Michels, W and Gstöttner, H}, title = {[Assisted spontaneous delivery vs. Bracht manual aid within the scope of vaginal delivery in breech presentation. Late morbidity in children 5-7 years of age].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Geburtshilfe und Perinatologie}, volume = {195}, number = {2}, pages = {76-81}, pmid = {1887655}, issn = {0300-967X}, mesh = {Brain Damage, Chronic/diagnosis/*etiology/psychology ; *Breech Presentation ; Child ; *Extraction, Obstetrical ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Functional Laterality/physiology ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Neurocognitive Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology/psychology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Pregnancy ; Risk Factors ; Social Adjustment ; Social Environment ; }, abstract = {For judgment of late morbidity we investigated 52 children after vaginal delivery in breech presentation age from 5 to 7 years. This concerned 27 children after assisted spontaneous labour and 25 children after manual expression according to Bracht. All the children were mature and eutrophic and without neonatal distress after delivery. They were explored with help of an voluminous screening programme, concerning not only the intellectual development but also the psychomotoric capacity. The result was an very high intellectual conduct in frame of the test according to Raven (PR greater than 75). The difference in confrontation to the collective after manual expression according to Bracht was statistical significant (p less than 0.05). Neuropsychologic investigations according to Simernitzkaja demonstrated evident differences in disfavour to children after manual expression according to Bracht concerning the visual memory performance for symbols and letters. Further investigations referring to the graphomotoric accomplishment of one hand or both hands reinforced the opinion; that means the visual motoric totality performance in a narrowed sense or the psychomotoric performance in a enlarged sense was statistical significant poorer pronounced (p less than 0.05). The results underline the claim to estimate more critical the manual expression according to Bracht till now.}, }
@article {pmid1651621, year = {1991}, author = {Zorin, ZA and Kalinina, TS and Maĭorova, ME and Mikitich, IuB and Khurtina, AV}, title = {[Relative numerousness judgements in crows and pigeons in the urgent comparison of stimuli earlier linked to different amounts of reinforcement].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {41}, number = {2}, pages = {306-313}, pmid = {1651621}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Color ; Columbidae/*physiology ; Discrimination, Psychological/*physiology ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Problem Solving/physiology ; *Reinforcement, Psychology ; }, abstract = {The ability of pigeons (Colomba livia, L.) and crows (Corvus corone cornix, L.) was studied to realize urgent numerousness judgement of reinforcement consisting of discrete elements (wheat grains and meal worm larvae, respectively). In the process of preliminary training the birds mastered the information about the conformity of the feeder colour with the definite number (1-9 for pigeons and 5-12 for crows) of reinforcement units at isolated presentation of feeders. In test at presentation of pairs formed from these feeders, pigeons and crows chose the stimulus connected with a greater quantity of reinforcement. In the range of 1-8 units the precision of choice in pigeons depended on absolute and relative differences between comparing values. In crows in the range of 6-12 this dependence was not revealed. The ability to solve the given test is considered as one of manifestations of elementary reasoning.}, }
@article {pmid1868768, year = {1991}, author = {Wei, GZ}, title = {[Crow-Fukase syndrome. A report of 2 cases].}, journal = {Zhonghua shen jing jing shen ke za zhi = Chinese journal of neurology and psychiatry}, volume = {24}, number = {1}, pages = {45-7, 63}, pmid = {1868768}, issn = {0412-4057}, mesh = {Adult ; Edema ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Paraproteinemias ; Pigmentation Disorders ; *Polyneuropathies ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {Two cases of crow-fukase syndrome were reported. Both cases showed the characteristic polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinologic disturbances and skin involvement. There was no evident response to cortico--steroid therapy.}, }
@article {pmid1984765, year = {1991}, author = {Weinberger, DR and Suddath, RL and Casanova, MF and Torrey, EF and Kleinman, JE}, title = {Crow's 'lateralization hypothesis' for schizophrenia.}, journal = {Archives of general psychiatry}, volume = {48}, number = {1}, pages = {85-87}, doi = {10.1001/archpsyc.1991.01810250087013}, pmid = {1984765}, issn = {0003-990X}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Brain/*anatomy &amp; histology/diagnostic imaging ; Cerebral Ventricles/anatomy &amp; histology ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Diseases in Twins ; *Functional Laterality ; Hippocampus/anatomy &amp; histology ; Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Schizophrenia/*diagnosis/genetics ; Temporal Lobe/anatomy &amp; histology ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; Twins, Monozygotic ; }, }
@article {pmid1947875, year = {1991}, author = {Lenzenweger, MF and Dworkin, RH and Wethington, E}, title = {Examining the underlying structure of schizophrenic phenomenology: evidence for a three-process model.}, journal = {Schizophrenia bulletin}, volume = {17}, number = {3}, pages = {515-524}, doi = {10.1093/schbul/17.3.515}, pmid = {1947875}, issn = {0586-7614}, mesh = {Adult ; Diseases in Twins/psychology ; Humans ; Interpersonal Relations ; *Personality Development ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Psychometrics ; Schizophrenia/classification/*diagnosis/rehabilitation ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; *Social Adjustment ; *Social Environment ; }, abstract = {The present report examined the latent structure of schizophrenic phenomenology. Schizophrenic patient case histories (n = 192) were rated for positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and premorbid social adjustment and the observed covariation among these clinical features was evaluated using a model-based confirmatory factor analytic approach. Our results indicated that schizophrenic phenomenology was best characterized by three distinct underlying structures. These data provide empirical support for Strauss et al.'s (1974) three-process model, which suggests that positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and disordered premorbid personal-social relationships are three distinct classes of phenomenology possibly reflective of three relatively independent pathological processes in schizophrenia. The data are also consistent with Crow's (1980, 1985, 1987) model of schizophrenic symptomatology, differentiating social impairment from both positive and negative symptoms. The heuristic implications of these data for the development of schizophrenia are discussed and the utility of a replication of the present study is noted.}, }
@article {pmid1941647, year = {1991}, author = {Gilsdorf, P and Patterson, R and Fisher, S}, title = {Thirty-minute continuous sitting force measurements with different support surfaces in the spinal cord injured and able-bodied.}, journal = {Journal of rehabilitation research and development}, volume = {28}, number = {4}, pages = {33-38}, doi = {10.1682/jrrd.1991.10.0033}, pmid = {1941647}, issn = {0748-7711}, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; Body Weight/physiology ; Data Interpretation, Statistical ; Equipment Design ; Humans ; Paraplegia/complications/*physiopathology ; Posture/*physiology ; Pressure Ulcer/*etiology/prevention &amp; control ; Quadriplegia/complications/*physiopathology ; Spinal Cord Injuries/complications/*physiopathology ; *Wheelchairs ; }, abstract = {Able-bodied, paraplegic, and quadriplegic subjects sat for 30-minute intervals on various surfaces in a wheelchair with a forceplate mounted on the seat in order to determine factors that could contribute to the formation of decubitus ulcers. All three groups of subjects sat on ROHO and Jay cushions; in addition to sitting on the two cushions, the able-bodied subjects sat on a hard surface. Factors studied were: normal and shear seat forces, the location of the center of mass, and armrest force. The forceplate was under the cushions; therefore, the values reflect average forces over the buttocks and posterior thighs. These factors were compared between disability levels as well as between surface types. Larger, normal, and forward shear forces and a more anterior position of the center of mass were observed with the ROHO cushion. More frequent and larger lateral weight shifts occurred with the Jay cushion. The armrests tended to support from 5 percent of the body weight for quadriplegics to 9 percent for paraplegics. The results suggest that armrests reduce seat forces by carrying some of the body weight.}, }
@article {pmid1938029, year = {1991}, author = {Gibson, L and MacLennan, WJ and Gray, C and Pentland, B}, title = {Evaluation of a comprehensive assessment battery for stroke patients.}, journal = {International journal of rehabilitation research. Internationale Zeitschrift fur Rehabilitationsforschung. Revue internationale de recherches de readaptation}, volume = {14}, number = {2}, pages = {93-100}, doi = {10.1097/00004356-199106000-00001}, pmid = {1938029}, issn = {0342-5282}, mesh = {Activities of Daily Living ; Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cerebrovascular Disorders/*physiopathology ; Cognition/physiology ; Craniocerebral Trauma/physiopathology ; Evaluation Studies as Topic ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Psychological Tests ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; }, abstract = {The authors describe their experience of evaluating a battery of tests to assess function in patients with stroke and head injuries. They consisted of the Abbreviated Mental Test Score, Ravens Progressive Coloured Matrices, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD), Motricity Index, Shortened Rivermead Perceptual Assessment Battery (RPAB), Frenchay Aphasia Screening Test (FAST) and Barthel's Activities of Daily Living Index. These were applied to 50 patients, six of whom had had a head injury and 44 a stroke. Over 80% of subjects were able to complete the battery. Reasons for failure amongst the remainder were language problems, poor concentration and short term memory loss. Abnormalities in one aspect of cerebral function often compromised tests designed to assess another aspect of this. For example, upper limb incoordination interfered with RPAB, language difficulties affected the Abbreviated Mental Test, and HAD, and hemianopia compromised both RPAB and FAST tests. The battery can usually be completed within 1h, and could be performed by a wide range of professionals. It is likely to be particularly useful in screening for abnormalities requiring more detailed evaluation by particular professionals, and in monitoring the progress of patients during the course of treatment.}, }
@article {pmid1819301, year = {1991}, author = {Stevanac-Papić, J}, title = {[Intellectual development in cases with normal occlusion and malocclusions].}, journal = {Bilten Udruzenja ortodonata Jugoslavije = Bulletin of Orthodontic Society of Yugoslavia}, volume = {24}, number = {2}, pages = {101-108}, pmid = {1819301}, issn = {0350-1043}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Educational Measurement ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Malocclusion/*psychology ; Tooth Loss/psychology ; }, abstract = {Purpose of this study is to evaluate psychical maturity of two orthodontic groups of examinees. Sample consists of 640 children: 320 are (E) orthognathous (160 girls and 160 boys) and 320 are (PS) dysgnathous (160 girls and 160 boys). They are classified according to their age (7-14 years) into 32 groups, 20 examinees each. The dysgnathous subjects have a specific malocclusion; early tooth loss or secondary crowding. The evaluation of psychical maturity is based on the general success in school and the results of the intelligence test of the "Raven's Progressive Matrices", both are expressed in points. The results are statistically treated and presented in tables and graphs. PS children, in the analyzed sample, develop psychically slower than E children. PS examinees have lower score (in points) of general success in school, as well as in results of the intelligence test. Although the difference in the arithmetic means obtained by the results of the intelligence test between E and PS subjects is statistically significant, (t = 6.76; P = 0.009), clinically it is not considered significant and it is not interpretable, (as when expressed in points it amounts to only two points).}, }
@article {pmid1809980, year = {1991}, author = {de Leon, J and Wilson, WH and Simpson, GM}, title = {Negative symptoms, defect state and Huber's basic symptoms: a comparison of the concepts.}, journal = {The Psychiatric quarterly}, volume = {62}, number = {4}, pages = {277-298}, pmid = {1809980}, issn = {0033-2720}, mesh = {Cross-Sectional Studies ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Schizophrenia/*diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Terminology as Topic ; }, abstract = {Comparing Crow's schizophrenia model with the defect state and Huber's basic symptoms shows that this model is an oversimplification of the complex reality of schizophrenic outcomes. The concept of negative symptoms is undermined by several factors, such as differing definitions, other confounding cross-sectional variables (e.g., akinesia and depression), short follow-ups and lack of confirmation by factorial analysis. The longitudinal concept of a defect state, which has been used in long-term follow-up studies, includes enduring symptoms currently classified as positive and negative. Huber's conceptualization of basic symptoms describes prodromal and enduring residual symptoms of schizophrenia associated with structural brain abnormalities. The overlap and lack of equivalence of these concepts and the limited empirical evidence does not allow firm conclusions. New longitudinal studies using clinical, psychosocial, and neuropsychological measures are needed to understand the natural history and etiology of the defect state.}, }
@article {pmid1808029, year = {1991}, author = {Poon, SK and Chew, WK}, title = {Isospora corvi Ray, Shivnani, Oommen and Bhaskaran, 1952 from the common house crow (Corvus splendens Vieillot) of Selangor, peninsular Malaysia.}, journal = {Folia parasitologica}, volume = {38}, number = {3}, pages = {201-207}, pmid = {1808029}, issn = {0015-5683}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/*parasitology ; Birds ; Coccidiosis/epidemiology/parasitology/*veterinary ; Feces/parasitology ; Female ; Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/epidemiology/parasitology/*veterinary ; Intestines/parasitology ; Isospora/classification/growth &amp; development/*isolation &amp; purification ; Malaysia/epidemiology ; Male ; Prevalence ; }, abstract = {Faecal samples of 56 common house crows (Corvus splendens Vieillot) were collected from the Petaling Jaya and Kelang districts of Selangor, peninsular Malaysia, and examined for coccidia. Intestinal tracts of 8 of the above crows wee histologically examined under light microscopy to determine the site of coccidial infection and the endogenous stages present. Fifty three (94.6%) crows had coccidial oocysts morphologically conforming to only one species of Isospora in their faeces at the time they were examined. The sporulated oocysts were found to be Isospora corviae (Ray et al. 1952) which has been emended to I. corvi. These oocysts are redescribed in greater detail. Corvus splendens is a new host record for I. corvi. Coccidial infection was observed in all the intestinal tracts and generally confined to the anterior two thirds of the intestine. The parasites occurred within intestinal epithelial cells, located usually above the host cell nucleus. Developmental stages of both the asexual and sexual phases were found in the epithelium, and are deemed to be the endogenous stages of I. corvi on the basis of the oocysts recovered from the same crows used for histological study. These stages are described here for the first time. The prevalence of I. corvi, its relationship with the host C. splendens, and its probable transmission from C. macrorhynchus are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid1791416, year = {1991}, author = {al-Sallami, S}, title = {A possible role of crows in the spread of diarrhoeal diseases in Aden.}, journal = {The Journal of the Egyptian Public Health Association}, volume = {66}, number = {3-4}, pages = {441-449}, pmid = {1791416}, issn = {0013-2446}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*microbiology ; Data Collection ; Diarrhea/*microbiology ; *Disease Vectors ; Yemen ; }, abstract = {The Indian House Crow (Corvus splendens) has increased dramatically in number in Aden. These birds pollute the environment by dropping their faecal material all over the city. They may accordingly be related to important public health problems. The present work aimed at investigating the possibility that they play a role in the spread of diarrheal diseases. One hundred and fifty crows were collected and their liver, intestine and cloaca examined bacteriologically for Enterobacteriaceae and Vibrionaceas as well as for parasites. Different members of Enterobacteriaceae including Salmonella, and Shigella serotypes and Proteus strains as well as members of Vibrionaceae and Pseudomonads were isolated from a great proportion of crows. Some of them were found identical to the strains previously isolated from patients suffering from diarrhea in Aden. Giardia lamblia cysts and Hymenolepis nana ova were also recovered from crows. It was concluded that crows may participate in the spread of diarrheal diseases in Aden.}, }
@article {pmid1776040, year = {1991}, author = {Aboud, F and Samuel, M and Hadera, A and Addus, A}, title = {Intellectual, social and nutritional status of children in an Ethiopian orphanage.}, journal = {Social science &amp; medicine (1982)}, volume = {33}, number = {11}, pages = {1275-1280}, doi = {10.1016/0277-9536(91)90075-n}, pmid = {1776040}, issn = {0277-9536}, mesh = {Child ; Child Development ; *Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; Child Welfare ; Ethiopia ; Evaluation Studies as Topic ; Family ; Female ; *Health Status ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Interpersonal Relations ; Male ; *Nutritional Status ; Self Concept ; }, abstract = {Children at the Jimma community orphanage between the ages of 5 and 14 years were given a battery of tests to assess their intellectual, social, and nutritional well-being relative to a group of family-reared controls. On two tests of intellectual ability, the Ravens Progressive Matrices and the Conservation test, the orphanage children performed as well as the family children. Children who entered the orphanage at an early age scored higher than those who entered later. On social-emotional measures of self-esteem, the orphanage children scored higher than or similar to the controls. However, in terms of their relationships with adults, the orphanage children reported fewer interactions and weaker attachments to adults. This was largely determined by the higher child: adult ratio in the orphanage than in family homes. Also, the orphanage children were more likely to be stunted but not more likely to be wasted than the family children. The former was attributed to the malnutrition experienced by children before they entered the orphanage, which in many cases was during the 1984 famine. Stunting was associated with lower Ravens scores. The generally favourable status of the orphanage children can largely be attributed to the noninstitutional orphanage rather than to their preorphanage family life. This raises disturbing questions about family life under conditions of economic stress.}, }
@article {pmid1726608, year = {1991}, author = {Dixit, AK and Kushwaha, RK}, title = {Occurrence of keratinophilic fungi on Indian birds.}, journal = {Folia microbiologica}, volume = {36}, number = {4}, pages = {383-386}, pmid = {1726608}, issn = {0015-5632}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*microbiology ; Fungi/*isolation &amp; purification/metabolism ; India ; Keratins/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Keratinophilic fungi were isolated from feathers of most common Indian birds, viz. domestic chicken (Gallus domesticus), domestic pigeon (Columba livia), house sparrow (Passer domesticus), house crow (Corvus splendens), duck (Anas sp.), rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri). Out of 87 birds, 58 yielded 4 keratinophilic fungal genera representing 13 fungal species and one sterile mycelium. The isolated fungi were cultured on Sabouraud's dextrose agar at 28 +/- 2 degrees C. Chrysosporium species were isolated on most of the birds. Chrysosporium lucknowense and Chrysosporium tropicum were the most common fungal species associated with these Indian birds. Maximum occurrence of fungi (47%) was recorded on domestic chickens and the least number of keratinophilic fungi was isolated from the domestic pigeon and duck. The average number of fungi per bird was found to be the 0.44.}, }
@article {pmid1650856, year = {1991}, author = {Shirabe, S and Kishikawa, M and Mine, M and Miyazaki, T and Kuratsune, H and Tobinaga, K}, title = {Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with extramedullary plasmacytoma.}, journal = {Japanese journal of medicine}, volume = {30}, number = {1}, pages = {64-66}, doi = {10.2169/internalmedicine1962.30.64}, pmid = {1650856}, issn = {0021-5120}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Axilla ; Combined Modality Therapy ; Edema/*etiology ; Gynecomastia/etiology ; Humans ; Hyperhidrosis/*etiology ; Immunoglobulin A/metabolism ; Immunoglobulin lambda-Chains/metabolism ; Male ; Neoplasm Proteins/metabolism ; Paraneoplastic Syndromes/*etiology ; Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/*etiology ; Plasmacytoma/*complications/radiotherapy/surgery ; *Skin Pigmentation ; Soft Tissue Neoplasms/*complications/radiotherapy/surgery ; }, abstract = {A patient with extramedullary solitary tumor had progressive sensory motor neuropathy, generalized pigmentation of skin, pretibial edema and gynecomastia. Serological examination of this patient showed monoclonal IgA-lambda gammopathy. Histologically, the tumor was defined as an IgA (lambda type) positive extramedullary plasmacytoma by using peroxidase anti-peroxidase staining. The tumor was accompanied by angiofollicular lymphoid hyperplasia. Pathologically, it was recognized as an extramedullary plasmacytoma associated with Castleman's disease like changes, and was successfully treated by surgical resection, followed by irradiation.}, }
@article {pmid1978882, year = {1990}, author = {Southern, JP and Smith, RM and Palmer, SR}, title = {Bird attack on milk bottles: possible mode of transmission of Campylobacter jejuni to man.}, journal = {Lancet (London, England)}, volume = {336}, number = {8728}, pages = {1425-1427}, doi = {10.1016/0140-6736(90)93114-5}, pmid = {1978882}, issn = {0140-6736}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Animals ; Behavior, Animal ; Birds/*microbiology ; Campylobacter Infections/microbiology/*transmission ; Campylobacter jejuni/*isolation &amp; purification ; Case-Control Studies ; Child ; Disease Vectors ; Epidemiologic Methods ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Milk/*microbiology ; Wales/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {A case-control study was carried out to test the hypothesis that the rise in the rate of Campylobacter jejuni infection in the Brigend area of South Wales during May was due to the consumption or handling of milk from bottles that had been attacked by birds. 32 of 36 cases meeting the case definition were interviewed, along with 2 controls per case, matched for age, sex, and area of residence. There were strong associations between campylobacter infection and doorstep delivery of milk bottles, a history of milk bottle attack by birds, milk bottle attack by birds during the week before illness, and consumption of milk from attacked bottles during the week before illness. There was a very strong dose-response relation between frequency of bird attack and illness. Controls with a history of milk bottle attack by birds were more likely than cases to have taken preventive measures against bird attack and consumption of contaminated milk. Although few people witnessed the attacks, the likely culprits are magpies (Pica pica) and jackdaws (Corvus monedula).}, }
@article {pmid2287130, year = {1990}, author = {Maruyama, S and Tanaka, T and Katsube, Y and Nakanishi, H and Nukina, M}, title = {Prevalence of thermophilic campylobacters in crows (Corvus levaillantii, Corvus corone) and serogroups of the isolates.}, journal = {Nihon juigaku zasshi. The Japanese journal of veterinary science}, volume = {52}, number = {6}, pages = {1237-1244}, doi = {10.1292/jvms1939.52.1237}, pmid = {2287130}, issn = {0021-5295}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*microbiology ; Campylobacter/classification/*isolation &amp; purification ; Feces/*microbiology ; Japan ; Seasons ; Serotyping ; }, abstract = {A total of 500 fecal droppings of crows collected from a seashore of an ocean bay and from a cemetery on a hill surrounded by a forest were examined for thermophilic campylobacters, and the Skirrow's biovars and Penner's serogroups of the isolates were determined. The organisms were isolated from 169 (62.6%) of 270 seashore crow samples and 106 (46.1%) of 230 cemetery crow samples. During the investigation period from May 1986 to April 1987, the monthly isolation rate of thermophilic campylobacters in the seashore crow varied from 32.0 to 85.0%. C. jejuni, C. coli, and C. laridis were isolated from 150, 21 and 14 samples, respectively. In case of the cemetery crow, the monthly isolation rate varied from 20.0 to 75.0%, and C. jejuni, C. coli, and C. laridis were detected from 80, 12 and 16 samples, respectively. Among 192 strains of C. jejuni selected from 98 seashore and 57 cemetery crow samples, 106 (93.0%) of 114 seashore crow strains and 69 (88.5%) of 78 cemetery crow strains were identified as Skirrow's biovar I. Of 192 strains of C. jejuni serogrouped, 169 strains were classified into 20 serogroups. The Penner's serogroup 2, one of common serogroups among poultry and human isolates in Japan, was the most predominant in crow strains.}, }
@article {pmid2286656, year = {1990}, author = {Diesfeldt, HF}, title = {Recognition memory for words and faces in primary degenerative dementia of the Alzheimer type and normal old age.}, journal = {Journal of clinical and experimental neuropsychology}, volume = {12}, number = {6}, pages = {931-945}, doi = {10.1080/01688639008401032}, pmid = {2286656}, issn = {1380-3395}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Alzheimer Disease/diagnosis/*psychology ; *Attention ; Dementia/diagnosis/psychology ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Mental Recall ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Psychometrics ; Retention, Psychology ; *Verbal Learning ; }, abstract = {The suitability of Warrington's Recognition Memory Test (RMT) for discriminating between patients with dementia of the Alzheimer type and nondemented elderly subjects was tested in a study with 44 patients (aged 59 to 94) and 45 normal elderly (aged 69 to 92). The patients showed a significant memory deficit, both in Recognition Memory for Words (RMW) and Recognition Memory for Faces (RMF), even when the scores were corrected for verbal intelligence score (WAIS Vocabulary) or a measure of visuoperceptual ability (Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, CPM). Word-face discrepancy scores did not differentiate between dementia and normal old age. At the 95%-specificity level, the sensitivity of RMW and RMF for the detection of memory impairment in dementia was 81% and 100% for subjects below 80, and, less satisfactory, 59% and 76% for subjects of 80 years or older. Correlational analysis showed that the patients' RMW and RMF scores were moderately correlated (r = .40). The significant correlation (r = .45) between CPM and RMF suggests that visuoperceptual deficits are involved in deficient face recognition.}, }
@article {pmid2081404, year = {1990}, author = {Drebing, CE and Takushi, RY and Tanzy, KS and Murdock, GA and Stewart, JC and Majovski, LV}, title = {Re-examination of CPM performance and neglect in lateralized brain injury.}, journal = {Cortex; a journal devoted to the study of the nervous system and behavior}, volume = {26}, number = {4}, pages = {661-664}, doi = {10.1016/s0010-9452(13)80316-4}, pmid = {2081404}, issn = {0010-9452}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Brain Damage, Chronic/*diagnosis/psychology ; *Dominance, Cerebral ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; }, abstract = {The current study examines the effects of lateralized brain injury on Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM) performance. Archival data on 106 unilateral brain-damage patients, 59 with right hemisphere damage and 47 with left, was utilized to examine four aspects of differential performance. Right brain-damaged subjects performed significantly lower than left brain-damaged subjects overall on the CPM. They also showed evidence of a higher incidence of and greater severity of hemi-neglect. After partialling out the effects of hemi-neglect, the subject groups were no longer significantly different on overall CPM performance. Evidence supporting the presence of heterogeneous subtests was not found. The results support the emerging pattern in research findings indicating that hemi-neglect plays a central role in differential performance. The CPM appears limited in its application and interpretation for patients with hemi-neglect.}, }
@article {pmid1966017, year = {1990}, author = {Saito, T}, title = {[Humoral antibodies in immune mediated neuropathy].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {30}, number = {12}, pages = {1364-1367}, pmid = {1966017}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Antibody Formation ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay ; Gangliosides/immunology ; Glycoproteins/immunology ; Humans ; Myelin Proteins/*immunology ; Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/*immunology ; }, abstract = {Immune mediated neuropathy includes acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP), chronic inflammatory demyelinating neuropathy (CIDN), paraproteinemic polyneuropathy (PPN) and Crow-Fukase syndrome (CFS). Serum antibodies as humoral immunity in patients with immune mediated neuropathy were measured by the method of immunoblots and ELISA. P0 protein, P2 protein, 170K-Mr glycoprotein and ganglioside (GGD) of human peripheral nerve myelin and MBP, myelin associated glycoprotein (MAG) of human central nerve myelin were used as antigens. In AIDP anti P2 antibodies were elevated significantly. However, anti MBP antibodies were also elevated in parallel. In PPN anti MAG antibodies were detected in 4 patients with IgM-M proteinemia and demyelinating neuropathy. High titers of anti MAG antibodies were also detected in the same 4 patients. Characteristic pathological findings of biopsied sural nerve were segmental demyelination with widening of the intraperiod line of the outer myelin lamella in all 4 patients. Positive rate of anti myelin antibodies were 23% in 23 cases with PPN. Anti 170K-Mr glycoprotein was detected only in one patient with IgM-M proteinemia, polyneuropathy and incurable dermatitis. Anti GGD antibodies were not detected in PPN or CFS. A few patients with GBS or CIDN have anti GGD antibodies in ELISA. It is well known that various antibodies to peripheral nerve myelin are detected in neuropathy, especially demyelinating state. The most important antigen established in this study in the pathogenesis of neuropathy is MAG. IgM monoclonal protein including anti MAG antibodies was absorbed by purified MAG completely. Anti 170K Mr glycoprotein was also absorbed by purified 170K-Mr glycoprotein. Role of humoral antibody to peripheral nerve myelin specific 170K-Mr glycoprotein remains to be solved.}, }
@article {pmid2150054, year = {1990}, author = {Sladkova, SV and Revazov, AA and Golubtsov, VI and Kadoshnikova, MIu}, title = {[Analysis of the structure of the urban and rural populations of the central portion of Krasnodar Krai].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {26}, number = {11}, pages = {2070-2075}, pmid = {2150054}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Family Planning Services/statistics &amp; numerical data ; Female ; Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Male ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Outcome/epidemiology ; Rural Population/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; Russia ; Transients and Migrants ; Urban Population/*statistics &amp; numerical data ; }, abstract = {The structure of the populations in Korenovsk and Ust-Labinsk districts--sexual, age, family and migrant is described Reproduction is low in these populations. The after-reproduction age class in rural populations prevailed, which affects the ratio of recessive and dominant forms in hereditary pathology of these populations. Family planning in towns accounts for small size of the families and decrease of the role of natural selection. Gametic and endogamy indexes for these populations indicate that intensive migrant processes take place in populations studied, as shown by the level of recessive pathology. The results obtained can be used in the medical-genetic studies for this territory.}, }
@article {pmid2124865, year = {1990}, author = {Jay, P}, title = {Relatives caring for the terminally ill.}, journal = {Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987)}, volume = {5}, number = {5}, pages = {30-32}, doi = {10.7748/ns.5.5.30.s42}, pmid = {2124865}, issn = {0029-6570}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Psychological ; Community Health Nursing/*methods ; Family/*psychology ; *Home Nursing ; Humans ; Nursing Assessment ; Nursing Theory ; Social Support ; *Terminal Care ; }, abstract = {Patricia Jay reviews the literature on informal carers and suggests how Roy's Adaptation Model can be adapted to ensure that relatives as well as patients' needs are assessed accurately.}, }
@article {pmid2282490, year = {1990}, author = {Grassi, S and Ottaviani, F and Bambagioni, D}, title = {Vocalization-related stapedius muscle activity in different age chickens (Gallus gallus), and its role in vocal development.}, journal = {Brain research}, volume = {529}, number = {1-2}, pages = {158-164}, doi = {10.1016/0006-8993(90)90823-t}, pmid = {2282490}, issn = {0006-8993}, mesh = {Aging ; Animals ; Chickens ; Electric Stimulation ; Electromyography ; Male ; Mesencephalon/physiology ; Muscle Development ; Muscles/innervation ; Occipital Lobe/physiology ; Reference Values ; Sexual Maturation ; Stapedius/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {The stapedius muscle activity associated with vocalization was analyzed in young and adult roosters. Our results show that remarkable differences in the behavior of vocalization-related stapedius muscle activity exist between these two ages. Unlike young roosters, electrical stimulation in the midbrain of adult cocks yields vocalizations associated with stapedius muscle EMG responses that always show a higher threshold and a longer latency than those of the vocalization induced. Moreover, the maximal amplitude of the stapedius muscle EMG response is consistently lower than that detected in young roosters, despite the fact that the maximal vocalization amplitude of the adult birds is much higher. On the whole our results demonstrate that vocalization-related stapedius muscle activity is strongly reduced in adulthood. The possibility that stapedius muscle may play a role during the vocal development was verified by comparing the crow of normal roosters with that of cocks from which the stapedius muscle had been removed shortly after hatching. Strong differences exist in the amplitude/frequency distribution of the crowing of normal and stapedectomized roosters, suggesting that the stapedius muscle exerts an important role in auditory feedback modulation, and that this feedback is used for normal vocal development.}, }
@article {pmid2270835, year = {1990}, author = {Zeig, JK and Geary, BB}, title = {Seeds of strategic and interactional psychotherapies: seminal contributions of Milton H. Erickson.}, journal = {The American journal of clinical hypnosis}, volume = {33}, number = {2}, pages = {105-112}, doi = {10.1080/00029157.1990.10402912}, pmid = {2270835}, issn = {0002-9157}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Hypnosis/*history ; Psychotherapy/*history ; United States ; }, abstract = {The life and work of Milton H. Erickson exerts a considerable influence upon the development of strategic and interactional psychotherapies. In this paper we trace the historical course of Erickson's impact in these areas from his early associations with Gregory Bateson and Margaret Mead through his contributions to the ideologies of Jay Haley and practitioners at the Mental Research Institute. We have identified seven philosophical and methodological realms which represent the incorporation of Ericksonian principles into strategic and interactional family therapy models.}, }
@article {pmid2250325, year = {1990}, author = {Bachmann, P and Bramwell, RN and Fraser, SJ and Gilmore, DA and Johnston, DH and Lawson, KF and MacInnes, CD and Matejka, FO and Miles, HE and Pedde, MA}, title = {Wild carnivore acceptance of baits for delivery of liquid rabies vaccine.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {26}, number = {4}, pages = {486-501}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-26.4.486}, pmid = {2250325}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; *Animals, Wild ; Birds ; *Carnivora ; Foxes ; Mephitidae ; Rabies/prevention &amp; control/*veterinary ; Rabies Vaccines/*administration &amp; dosage ; Raccoons ; Regression Analysis ; }, abstract = {A series of experiments are described on the acceptance, by red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and other species, of two types of vaccine-baits intended to deliver liquid rabies vaccine. The baits consisted of a cube of sponge coated in a mixture of tallow and wax, or a plastic blister-pack embedded in tallow. All baits contained tetracycline as a biological marking agent: examination of thin sections of carnivore canines under an ultraviolet microscope revealed a fluorescent line of tetracycline if an individual had eaten baits. Baits were dropped from fixed-wing aircraft flying about 100 m above ground at approximately 130 km/h. Flight lines followed the edges of woodlots midway between parallel roads. Baits were dropped at one/sec, resulting in one bait/36 m on the ground, or 17 to 25 baits per km2. Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) removed many baits, but did not appear to lower the percent of the fox population which took bait. Dropping baits only into corn and woodland to conceal baits, to reduce depredation by crows, reduced acceptance by foxes. Acceptance by foxes ranged between 37 and 68%. Meat added as an attractant did not raise acceptance. Presence, absence, color and perforations of plastic bags did not alter bait acceptance. Dispersal by juvenile foxes probably lowered the estimates of bait acceptance. It took 7 to 17 days for 80% (n = 330) of foxes to eat their first bait. The rapidity with which foxes picked up their first bait appeared more affected by unknown characteristics of years or study areas than by experimental variables. Skunks (Mephitis mephitis) and raccoons (Procyon lotor) also ate these baits, but acceptance was lower. Small mammals contacted baits, but rarely contacted the vaccine, which had the potential for vaccine-induced rabies in some species. Aerial distribution of baits was more cost-effective than ground distribution as practiced in Europe. This system has potential for field control of rabies, although higher acceptance will be desirable.}, }
@article {pmid2135443, year = {1990}, author = {Di Creddo, RC and do Valle, AL and Bonachela, WC and de Araujo, Cdos R and Pandolfi, RF and Pegoraro, LF}, title = {[Traction resistance of cast metal posts with and without retention, cemented with zinc phosphate cement in smooth and rough canals].}, journal = {Revista de odontologia da Universidade de Sao Paulo}, volume = {4}, number = {4}, pages = {299-303}, pmid = {2135443}, issn = {0103-0663}, mesh = {Cementation ; Cuspid ; Dental Stress Analysis ; Humans ; *Post and Core Technique ; Surface Properties ; Tensile Strength ; *Zinc Phosphate Cement ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this research was to test the traction resistance of cast posts and cores with and without roughness cemented with zinc phosphate cement in cuspids roots, with smooth and roughness canals walls. From the results of the tests and statistical analysis there was significant difference between roughness posts cemented in root canals with roughness walls and smooth posts cemented in smooth root canals. It was also analyzed, the retention of cast crows cemented on roughness posts and canals and it was concluded that posts are responsible for crows retention, when the cores were done at the correct way.}, }
@article {pmid2394747, year = {1990}, author = {Verweij, CL and Guidos, C and Crabtree, GR}, title = {Cell type specificity and activation requirements for NFAT-1 (nuclear factor of activated T-cells) transcriptional activity determined by a new method using transgenic mice to assay transcriptional activity of an individual nuclear factor.}, journal = {The Journal of biological chemistry}, volume = {265}, number = {26}, pages = {15788-15795}, pmid = {2394747}, issn = {0021-9258}, support = {CA 39612/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; CA 42551/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; HL 33942/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cell Line ; Cell Nucleus/metabolism ; Cyclosporins/pharmacology ; Humans ; *Lymphocyte Activation ; Mice ; Mice, Transgenic ; Nuclear Proteins/*genetics/metabolism ; Organ Specificity ; Plasmids ; RNA, Messenger/genetics ; Restriction Mapping ; Spleen/immunology ; T-Lymphocytes/*immunology ; Transcription Factors/*genetics/metabolism ; *Transcription, Genetic/drug effects ; Transfection ; }, abstract = {Nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT-1) is a transcription factor which is considered to be an important regulator in early T-cell activation. We have developed a system to monitor the transcriptional activity of NFAT-1 at the single cell level in whole animals. The system is based on the use of an oligomerized NFAT-1 binding motif that directs transcription of SV40 T-antigen in transgenic mice. This report represents the first demonstration that a multimerized short binding motif can function appropriately in transgenic mice. NFAT-1 activity had previously been thought to be confined to activated T-lymphocytes upon release of intracellular calcium. By targeting NFAT-1-dependent gene expression in transgenic mice we discovered new sites of NFAT-1 activity. Besides in T-lymphocytes NFAT-1 activity could also be induced in T-lymphocyte-depleted spleen cells and purified B-lymphocytes and requires agents that both release intracellular calcium and activate protein kinase C. A difference in the time course of appearance of NFAT-1 activity between T-lymphocytes and non-T-lymphocytes was revealed. Constitutive expression was observed in a small population of cells in the dermis and some mice have developed skin lesions. Interestingly, the tissue pattern of expression of the NFAT-1 activity resembles the expression pattern described for HIV-LTR/tat transgenic mice (Vogel, J., Hinrichs, S. H., Reynolds, R. K., Luciw, P. A., and Jay, G. (1988) Nature 335, 606-611). This similarity in expression and the fact that NFAT-1 has been shown to bind functional sequences in HIV-LTR suggest a role for NFAT-1 in dermal activation of the HIV-LTR.}, }
@article {pmid2249440, year = {1990}, author = {Villa, G and Gainotti, G and De Bonis, C and Marra, C}, title = {Double dissociation between temporal and spatial pattern processing in patients with frontal and parietal damage.}, journal = {Cortex; a journal devoted to the study of the nervous system and behavior}, volume = {26}, number = {3}, pages = {399-407}, doi = {10.1016/s0010-9452(13)80089-5}, pmid = {2249440}, issn = {0010-9452}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Analysis of Variance ; Cognition ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Parietal Lobe/*injuries ; *Space Perception ; Temporal Lobe/*injuries ; *Time Perception ; }, abstract = {One hundred and twenty nine patients affected by a cerebral lesion confined to a single lobe, underwent a battery of tests including the "Temporal Rule Induction" (TRI) and the Raven's "Coloured Progressive Matrices" (CPM). Frontal patients scored lower than any other group on TRI and parietal patients on CPM. This contrasting pattern of performance provides strong empirical support to the hypothesis that the frontal lobe is specifically involved in tasks that require a control on temporally ordered information whereas the parietal lobe is concerned with cognitive activities that imply visuo-spatial analysis.}, }
@article {pmid2230527, year = {1990}, author = {Ancalmo, N and Ochsner, J}, title = {Heparin, the miracle drug: a brief history of its discovery.}, journal = {The Journal of the Louisiana State Medical Society : official organ of the Louisiana State Medical Society}, volume = {142}, number = {9}, pages = {22-24}, pmid = {2230527}, issn = {0024-6921}, mesh = {Heparin/*history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; United States ; }, abstract = {Heparin is a drug used widely in almost every field of medicine; nevertheless, very little is known about its discovery. Jay McLean, a second year medical student at Johns Hopkins University, discovered this wonderful drug in 1916 while performing research in the laboratory of W.H. Howell, MD. This is a brief account of the story told by Dr McLean before his death.}, }
@article {pmid2167780, year = {1990}, author = {Sanada, I and Fujiwara, H and Tsukamoto, A and Sato, M and Kawano, F and Shido, T}, title = {Genetic predisposition to the Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {Clinical immunology and immunopathology}, volume = {56}, number = {3}, pages = {420-422}, doi = {10.1016/0090-1229(90)90161-i}, pmid = {2167780}, issn = {0090-1229}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Endocrine System Diseases/*genetics/immunology ; Female ; HLA Antigens/*analysis ; HLA-DQ Antigens/*analysis ; HLA-DR Antigens/*analysis ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Paraproteinemias/*genetics/immunology ; Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/*genetics/immunology ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {Histocompatibility antigens (HLA-A,B,C,DR, and DQ antigens) were investigated in 25 Japanese patients with the Crow-Fukase syndrome (Takatsuki's disease). No significant associations were detected between the patients with the Crow-Fukase syndrome and the healthy controls.}, }
@article {pmid2079207, year = {1990}, author = {Posukh, OL and Vibe, VP and Sukernik, RI}, title = {[Genetic and ecologic study of aboriginal inhabitants of the Siberian northeast. III. Demographic structure of three modern population links of Yakutia].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {26}, number = {9}, pages = {1628-1636}, pmid = {2079207}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Demography ; Female ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Labor, Obstetric ; Male ; Marriage ; Pregnancy ; Siberia ; }, abstract = {Demographic data of genetic interest were studied in three separate populations of Tungus-speaking Evens. They are characterized as expanding populations, rather as a result of migration and admixture, than due to natural increase. The mean and variance of livebirths per female, whose reproduction was completed, were 7.23 and 13.07, respectively. The Crow's index of the opportunity for selection (It) and its components (Im and If) were found to be 0.62, 0.30 and 0.25, respectively. The values of Im and If appeared to be essentially lower than those previously found in other northern populations.}, }
@article {pmid2236395, year = {1990}, author = {Harriman, AE and Fry, EG}, title = {Solution acceptance by common ravens (Corvus corax) given two-bottle preference tests.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {67}, number = {1}, pages = {19-26}, doi = {10.2466/pr0.1990.67.1.19}, pmid = {2236395}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Choice Behavior ; Discrimination Learning ; Female ; Male ; *Taste ; Taste Threshold ; }, abstract = {Two-bottle tests of solution acceptance were conducted in an outdoor aviary with eight common ravens (Corvus corax). Aqueous concentrations of the following chemicals were used: five common sugars, three salts, two acids, quinine hydrochloride, and sodium saccharin. Solution acceptance, as recorded for the different ravens on each test, was the percentage of preference shown for a test solution over water (comparison solution). Mid-range saccharin concentrations (0.10% to 0.80% [w/w]) were preferred over water in the tests. The preference for saccharin contrasts with all other reports on avian response to the chemical in two-bottle tests. Nonetheless, the ravens nonpreferentially accepted lower concentrations or were averse at higher concentrations to drinking sugar solutions. Similar, though more sharply marked, shifts from indifference to aversion were noted in tests with the other chemicals. The possible relevance of these latter findings to the food habits of ravens is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid2236250, year = {1990}, author = {Carroll, RG}, title = {Minority recruitment physiology instruction on the Crow Indian Reservation.}, journal = {The Physiologist}, volume = {33}, number = {4}, pages = {77-78}, pmid = {2236250}, issn = {0031-9376}, mesh = {Humans ; *Indians, North American ; Minority Groups/*education ; Montana ; Physiology/*education ; }, }
@article {pmid2381998, year = {1990}, author = {Carpenter, PA and Just, MA and Shell, P}, title = {What one intelligence test measures: a theoretical account of the processing in the Raven Progressive Matrices Test.}, journal = {Psychological review}, volume = {97}, number = {3}, pages = {404-431}, pmid = {2381998}, issn = {0033-295X}, support = {MH-00661/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; MH-00662/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Attention ; *Concept Formation ; *Discrimination Learning ; *Form Perception ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Problem Solving ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {The cognitive processes in a widely used, nonverbal test of analytic intelligence, the Raven Progressive Matrices Test (Raven, 1962), are analyzed in terms of which processes distinguish between higher scoring and lower scoring subjects and which processes are common to all subjects and all items on the test. The analysis is based on detailed performance characteristics, such as verbal protocols, eye-fixation patterns, and errors. The theory is expressed as a pair of computer simulation models that perform like the median or best college students in the sample. The processing characteristic common to all subjects is an incremental, reiterative strategy for encoding and inducing the regularities in each problem. The processes that distinguish among individuals are primarily the ability to induce abstract relations and the ability to dynamically manage a large set of problem-solving goals in working memory.}, }
@article {pmid2126070, year = {1990}, author = {Smith, CV and Hoskins, IA and Eglinton, GS}, title = {The role of transvaginal ultrasound in a referral military hospital.}, journal = {Military medicine}, volume = {155}, number = {7}, pages = {319-320}, pmid = {2126070}, issn = {0026-4075}, mesh = {Female ; Hospitals, Military ; Humans ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Complications/*diagnostic imaging ; Pregnancy Tests/*methods ; Ultrasonography/methods ; Uterus/*diagnostic imaging ; Vagina ; }, abstract = {In an attempt to overcome some of the difficulties encountered with transabdominal ultrasonography we report on 55 patients who underwent 88 transvaginally directed sonograms. In 24 patients in whom a diagnosis of an early intrauterine pregnancy was made, the mean crow-rump length (CRL) was 10.7 mm (range, 3 to 27). In six patients (25%) the CRL was 5 mm or less. These data suggest that the use of transvaginally directed sonography may permit an earlier diagnosis of pregnancy than the abdominal approach does. This earlier diagnosis should allow the exclusion of ectopic pregnancy in many of the patients at risk for this disorder.}, }
@article {pmid2101548, year = {1990}, author = {Dörr-Zeggers, O}, title = {[Dialectic and psychiatry].}, journal = {Acta psiquiatrica y psicologica de America latina}, volume = {36}, number = {3-4}, pages = {111-123}, pmid = {2101548}, issn = {0001-6896}, mesh = {Humans ; Personality Disorders/*psychology ; *Philosophy, Medical ; Psychopathology ; Psychotic Disorders/*psychology ; }, abstract = {A definition of Dialectics is intended. Its evolution is furthered on--from its originating in the pre-Socratic philosophy up to its culminating with Hegel. Its importance is then postulated for a better understanding of vital history, of endogenous or functional psychoses, as well as classical personality types in their relation with fundamental psychopathological structures. As regards the former, it is the author's contention that dialectical thinking should allow vital history to be understood as the unfolding in time of a consciousness more and more split into increasingly tensioned contradictions until its resolution into either a failure (i.e. disease) or into a synthesis implying a step forward towards maturation, plenitude, or wisdom. As far as endogenous or functional psychoses are concerned, great psychoses could be seen as dialectical polarities, either in themselves (mania v. depression, Crow's Type I v. Type II), or as a group facing another group (v.g. affective diseases v. schizophrenic diseases). What belongs to schizophrenia, and what belongs to depression appear as opposite poles both in previous personality, and the outbreaking situation, both in symptomatology, and evolution. Finally, Dialectics should also allow a conception of the highly classical personality types to be built, and ordered according to polarities (v.g. schizoid-depressive polarity, or hysterical-obsessive polarity) wherein each one may be seen as positive opposite the other one. Deviation towards one of the poles of such alternative need not be considered a deficiency but a dynamic displacement of existence against the opposite pole. A scheme of interrelationship among the aforementioned structures, and psychiatric syndromes likely to be more frequently found is proposed.}, }
@article {pmid2075845, year = {1990}, author = {Dörr Zegers, O}, title = {[Toward a dialectic concept in psychiatry].}, journal = {Actas luso-espanolas de neurologia, psiquiatria y ciencias afines}, volume = {18}, number = {4}, pages = {244-257}, pmid = {2075845}, issn = {0300-5062}, mesh = {*Conflict, Psychological ; Europe ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; History, Ancient ; Humans ; Logic ; Mental Disorders/classification/*psychology ; *Philosophy/history ; *Psychological Theory ; }, abstract = {It is intended to define dialectics, and then to follow its evolution from its origin in the pre-Socratic philosophy up to its culmination in Hegel. It is then postulated its importance for the better understanding of the vital history, of the endogenous or functional psychoses and of the classical types of personality in its relation with the fundamental psychopathological structures. With respect to the first one, dialectic thinking would allow to understand vital history as the unfolding in time of a consciousness that is being splinted in contradictions of increasing tension up to its resolution in a failure (disease) or in a synthesis that implies a step forward in the maturation, plenitude or wisdom. With respect to the second one, the great psychoses could be seen as dialectic polarities, both within themselves (mania versus depression, type I versus type II of Crow), and of a group with respect of the other (affective diseases versus schizophrenic diseases). What is schizophrenic and what is depressive appear as polar ones both in the previous personality and in the outbreaking situations, both in the symptomatology as in the evolution. In the third place, dialectics would also allow to conceive the most classic types of personality as ordered in polarities (schizoid-depressive, hysterical-obsessive), in which the poles simultaneously attract and repel themselves, so that each one can be seen as a positivity with respect to the other one. The deviation towards a pole of the alternative does not need to be seen as a lack, but as a dynamic displacement of the existence against the other pole of the alternative. Finally, the author proposes a scheme on the interrelation between the mentioned four structures and the more frequent psychiatric syndromes.}, }
@article {pmid2192557, year = {1990}, author = {Mundy, GR}, title = {Presentation of the Southern Society for Clinical Investigation Founder's Medal to Dr. Jay H. Stein.}, journal = {The American journal of the medical sciences}, volume = {299}, number = {6}, pages = {372-373}, doi = {10.1097/00000441-199006000-00003}, pmid = {2192557}, issn = {0002-9629}, mesh = {*Awards and Prizes ; History, 20th Century ; *Nephrology ; Societies, Medical ; Texas ; }, }
@article {pmid1971891, year = {1990}, author = {Hudson, SJ and Sobo, AO and Russel, K and Lightfoot, NF}, title = {Jackdaws as potential source of milk-borne Campylobacter jejuni infection.}, journal = {Lancet (London, England)}, volume = {335}, number = {8698}, pages = {1160}, doi = {10.1016/0140-6736(90)91162-4}, pmid = {1971891}, issn = {0140-6736}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Campylobacter Infections/*transmission/veterinary ; Disease Outbreaks ; Disease Vectors ; England ; Enteritis/*etiology ; *Food Microbiology ; Humans ; *Milk ; }, }
@article {pmid2119268, year = {1990}, author = {Hirayama, M and Kiyosawa, K and Nakazaki, S and Fujiki, N and Iida, M}, title = {[Measurement of gamma-interferon in sera and CSF in patients with multiple sclerosis and inflammatory neurological diseases].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {30}, number = {5}, pages = {557-559}, pmid = {2119268}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Behcet Syndrome/*metabolism ; Humans ; Interferon-gamma/*blood/cerebrospinal fluid ; Multiple Sclerosis/*metabolism ; Polyradiculoneuropathy/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {We examined whether gamma-interferon (gamma-IFN) can be detected in serum and CSF of patients with multiple sclerosis and other inflammatory neurological diseases. Gamma-IFN was assayed by solid phase radioimmunoassay on the forward sandwich principle. In 7 serum samples in acute stage of multiple sclerosis without corticosteroid, in 2 CSF samples in acute stage, gamma-IFN was not detected. In stable stage there was no case with positive gamma-IFN. The patient with tuberculous meningitis showed high titer in CSF but not in serum. One case with herpes zoster meningitis, one case out of 2 aseptic encephalitis showed positive gamma-IFN in CSF. In one case with Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease, gamma-IFN was detected both in serum and CSF. One case with Neuro-Behçet syndrome showed positive gamma-IFN in CSF. No gamma-IFN was detected in 2 cases with Guillain-Barré syndrome, one case with Crow-Fukase syndrome, Fisher syndrome, 2 cases with polymyosits. gamma-IFN in CSF was detected in meningitis and encephalitis, but not in serum. This suggests that the locally infiltrating cells produce gamma-IFN. However, we could not detect gamma-IFN in either CSF or serum of patients with multiple sclerosis. Negative results of gamma-IFN in patients with multiple sclerosis can be interpreted in 2 ways. 1. The half life of gamma-IFN is very short in vivo, and the level of gamma-IFN may not be detected at the time of sampling. 2. Generalized augmentation of gamma-IFN production may not be observed but locally infiltrating cells or astrocytes might produce gamma-IFN.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid2381059, year = {1990}, author = {Inoue, T and Ohta, K and Ohhira, H and Nakao, Y and Yasui, Y and Furukawa, Y and Yamane, T and Hiyoshi, M and Sasaki, A and Kishida, T}, title = {[Juvenile Crow-Fukase syndrome with response to bolus of methylprednisolone after failure of treatment by plasma exchange].}, journal = {[Rinsho ketsueki] The Japanese journal of clinical hematology}, volume = {31}, number = {4}, pages = {448-451}, pmid = {2381059}, issn = {0485-1439}, mesh = {Adult ; Edema/drug therapy ; Female ; Humans ; Methylprednisolone/*administration &amp; dosage/therapeutic use ; Paraproteinemias/*drug therapy/therapy ; Pigmentation Disorders/drug therapy ; Plasma Exchange ; Polyneuropathies/*drug therapy/therapy ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {A 20-year-old woman was hospitalized because of abdominal distention. She had developed facial edema about one year earlier, and recently amenorrhea and red verrucae on the chest and abdomen. Neurological examination disclosed hypesthesia, paresthesia, and diminished tendon reflexes in the arms and legs. The level of serum immunoglobulin A (IgA) was elevated and an M protein was detected. Examination of the bone marrow disclosed abnormal increase in plasma cells. Results of glucose tolerance test were mildly abnormal. The patient was diagnosed as Crow-Fukase syndrome. Plasma exchange was done four times and melphalan was given orally for two weeks, but the level of serum IgA increased further. Then one bolus injection of methylprednisolone decreased the serum IgA with improvement in other signs. The disorder is now controlled satisfactory with a low dose of prednisolone.}, }
@article {pmid2254234, year = {1990}, author = {Líndal, E}, title = {Post-operative depression and coronary bypass surgery.}, journal = {International disability studies}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {70-74}, doi = {10.3109/03790799009166254}, pmid = {2254234}, issn = {0259-9147}, mesh = {Aged ; Coronary Artery Bypass/*psychology/rehabilitation ; Depressive Disorder/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Female ; *Health Status ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Postoperative Complications/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Factors pertaining to post-surgical rehabilitation were investigated. These included personality, mental, and pain issues. The investigation covered the first year of bypass operations.<br><br>SUBJECTS: 60 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABE) operations.<br><br>INSTRUMENTS: a questionnaire, a personality inventory (MMPI), and a test of mental status (Raven's). The questionnaire was first administered a few days before and then after surgery and then repeated at intervals of 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery.<br><br>RESULTS: 76% were within normal limits on the Raven while 54% of those tested had significant depression. Both the depressed patients' dates of surgery and their ages were evenly distributed, and no significant differences were found between these and those not tested. Other MMPI results were that 36% scored above normal on the hysteria scale, 27% were quite anxious, and 24% were above average on the schizophrenia scale. The answers to the questionnaire items were relatively stable. In a comparison of the answers of the depressed versus the non-depressed, no significant differences were found. The reason for the depression is not apparent, but it is not considered to be the result of medication or of a greater severity of pain. The depression was not found to have affected the rehabilitation progress.}, }
@article {pmid2334110, year = {1990}, author = {Luna, F and Moral, P}, title = {Mechanisms of natural selection in human rural populations, survey of a Mediterranean region (La Alpujarra, SE Spain).}, journal = {Annals of human biology}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {153-158}, doi = {10.1080/03014469000000902}, pmid = {2334110}, issn = {0301-4460}, mesh = {Adult ; Demography ; Female ; *Fertility ; Health Policy ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Mortality ; Rural Population ; *Selection, Genetic ; Social Conditions ; Spain/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Measures of fecundity and mortality among 476 women from a Mediterranean population in SE Spain (La Alpujarra) have been used to estimate the possibilities of the action of natural selection, using Crow's Index of Total Selection. The component due to differential fecundity was twice that attributed to mortality. The Crow's index variation in different populations seems to reflect a change in the action model of evolutionary factors from a primitive situation characterized by high mortality to a new situation typified by very low fecundity. The intermediate step could be represented by the rural communities defined by a sharp decrease of mortality while fecundity remains high. The selection potential found in La Alpujarra was in the range corresponding to these rural groups.}, }
@article {pmid2317294, year = {1990}, author = {Denney, NW and Heidrich, SM}, title = {Training effects on Raven's progressive matrices in young, middle-aged, and elderly adults.}, journal = {Psychology and aging}, volume = {5}, number = {1}, pages = {144-145}, doi = {10.1037//0882-7974.5.1.144}, pmid = {2317294}, issn = {0882-7974}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aging/*physiology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Education ; Evaluation Studies as Topic ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests/*methods ; Male ; Middle Aged ; }, abstract = {Previous training studies of fluid intellectual abilities have involved training on either figural relations or induction tasks. In the present study, young, middle-aged, and elderly adults were given training on another measure of fluid ability--Raven's Progressive Matrices. The training involved a strategy-modeling technique that lasted no more than a few minutes. The results indicated that (a) performance on the Raven decreased with increasing age, (b) training significantly improved performance, and (c) the effect of training did not differ as a function of the age or sex of the subjects. Thus, the results indicate that performance on the Raven can be significantly improved in a single, brief training session.}, }
@article {pmid2198231, year = {1990}, author = {Carcaterra, A and Santini, R and Sozzi, G and Zuccoli, E}, title = {[Crow-Fukase syndrome (POEMS syndrome). The first Italian presentation of a case and review of the literature].}, journal = {Giornale italiano di dermatologia e venereologia : organo ufficiale, Societa italiana di dermatologia e sifilografia}, volume = {125}, number = {3}, pages = {97-103}, pmid = {2198231}, issn = {0392-0488}, mesh = {Adult ; Endocrine System Diseases/*diagnosis ; Glycoproteins/*urine ; Hepatomegaly/diagnosis ; Humans ; Italy ; Lymphatic Diseases/*diagnosis/pathology ; Male ; Nervous System Diseases/*diagnosis ; Skin Diseases/*diagnosis/pathology ; Splenomegaly/diagnosis ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {A 42-year-old Italian man affected with a multisystemic disease is presented. The main features were: polyneuropathy, organomegaly (liver, spleen and lymph nodes enlargement), endocrinopathy (loss of libido, low plasmatic levels of testosterone), monoclonal protein (k-light chains only in 100-fold-concentrated urine sample, without other signs of plasmocytic proliferation), skin changes. Clinical skin alterations were striking: diffuse thickening, hyperpigmentation, hyperhidrosis , hypertrichosis, while histo- and immunopathological examination of skin biopsies showed proliferation of dermal collagen fibers and deposition of melanin in the epidermis. These findings were suggestive for the diagnosis of Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome, associated with peculiar angiofollicular lymph node hyperplasia (Castleman's disease). The patient was followed up for 15 months with steroids, systemic chemotherapy, plasma-exchange and immunomodulating drugs. A massive anasarca complicated the picture leading him to death. Actually the pathomechanisms of this rare disease have not been fully elucidated. The relations between this syndrome and some malignant lymphoproliferative diseases (i.e. osteosclerotic myeloma) are controversial; at least a part of its features could be either reactive or tissue-specific-antibody mediated. A genetic influence should be suggested from the Japanese reports.}, }
@article {pmid1691212, year = {1990}, author = {Drolet, JL}, title = {Transcending death during early adulthood: symbolic immortality, death anxiety, and purpose in life.}, journal = {Journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {46}, number = {2}, pages = {148-160}, doi = {10.1002/1097-4679(199003)46:2&lt;148::aid-jclp2270460205&gt;3.0.co;2-t}, pmid = {1691212}, issn = {0021-9762}, mesh = {Adaptation, Psychological ; Adolescent ; Adult ; Anxiety/*psychology ; *Attitude to Death ; *Concept Formation ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Motivation ; *Personality Development ; Personality Tests ; Psychometrics ; Reality Testing ; *Symbolism ; }, abstract = {Robert Jay Lifton has originated a comprehensive theory of development based on the human psychobiological need to symbolize death and life continuity. He calls this condition the sense of symbolic immortality and argues that life is threatened whenever death is not transcended. A Sense of Symbolic Immortality Scale was built and administered to two groups of young adults (N = 136) in order to test the hypothesis that symbolic immortality develops with age (Drolet, 1986). Templer's Death Anxiety Scale and Crumbaugh and Maholick's Purpose in Life Test also were administered. Results show that established adults have a sense of symbolic immortality and a purpose in life significantly stronger than those of young adults. They show a negative relation between death anxiety and purpose in life, while purpose in life correlates highly with the sense of symbolic immortality. Finally, the premise that the sense of symbolic immortality helps cope with the fear of death is supported.}, }
@article {pmid2313303, year = {1990}, author = {Berman, KF and Weinberger, DR}, title = {Lateralisation of cortical function during cognitive tasks: regional cerebral blood flow studies of normal individuals and patients with schizophrenia.}, journal = {Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry}, volume = {53}, number = {2}, pages = {150-160}, pmid = {2313303}, issn = {0022-3050}, mesh = {Adult ; Arousal/physiology ; Cerebral Cortex/*blood supply ; Cognition Disorders/*physiopathology ; Dominance, Cerebral/*physiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Neurocognitive Disorders/*physiopathology ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Regional Blood Flow/physiology ; Schizophrenia/*physiopathology ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Xenon Radioisotopes ; }, abstract = {To assess cognitively-related regional asymmetries of brain function, regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) was determined by the xenon inhalation method while normal subjects performed 10 different tasks and also while they were at rest. In addition to healthy subjects, patients with schizophrenia were also studied. A total of 447 rCBF studies were carried out during the following conditions: the Wisconsin Card Sort Test, a numbers matching test, a symbols matching test, Raven's Progressive Matrices, an auditory discrimination test, an auditory control task, two versions of a visual continuous performance task, line orientation, semantic classification, and resting. On the whole, those tasks that seem to require or allow for internal verbalisation resulted in the greatest activation of the left hemisphere compared with the right; right hemisphere activation predominated only in the two tasks primarily involving attention and vigilance. Furthermore, a consistent regional topography of normal cerebral functional laterality was seen: under most conditions left prefrontal cortical activity exceeded that of right prefrontal cortex; during all non-auditory tasks, parieto-occipital cortical activity had an opposite pattern-greater right than left. During most conditions the schizophrenic patients displayed the same pattern. While several cognitively specific between-group differences were found, no single cortical region was consistently implicated and no specific direction of abnormal asymmetry predominated. These data suggest that there is a predominant task-independent functional pattern of cortical activity emphasising relatively greater left anterior and right posterior activation. This pattern may reflect the verbal and attentional primacy of these areas, respectively.}, }
@article {pmid2107407, year = {1990}, author = {Krauss, J}, title = {Education: a circle of care. The 1989 Kathleen A Raven nursing lecture.}, journal = {Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987)}, volume = {4}, number = {16}, pages = {23-25}, pmid = {2107407}, issn = {0029-6570}, mesh = {Education, Nursing/*standards ; Humans ; Nurses ; Quality Assurance, Health Care ; Social Perception ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid2406697, year = {1990}, author = {Marcum, JA}, title = {William Henry Howell and Jay McLean: the experimental context for the discovery of heparin.}, journal = {Perspectives in biology and medicine}, volume = {33}, number = {2}, pages = {214-230}, doi = {10.1353/pbm.1990.0015}, pmid = {2406697}, issn = {0031-5982}, mesh = {Heparin/*history ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid2404141, year = {1990}, author = {Baird, RJ}, title = {"Give us the tools...". The story of heparin--as told by sketches from the lives of William Howell, Jay McLean, Charles Best, and Gordon Murray.}, journal = {Journal of vascular surgery}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {4-18}, pmid = {2404141}, issn = {0741-5214}, mesh = {Canada ; *Heparin/history/isolation &amp; purification/therapeutic use ; History, 20th Century ; United States ; Vascular Surgical Procedures/*history ; }, }
@article {pmid2401955, year = {1990}, author = {Gilsdorf, P and Patterson, R and Fisher, S and Appel, N}, title = {Sitting forces and wheelchair mechanics.}, journal = {Journal of rehabilitation research and development}, volume = {27}, number = {3}, pages = {239-246}, doi = {10.1682/jrrd.1990.07.0239}, pmid = {2401955}, issn = {0748-7711}, mesh = {Biomechanical Phenomena ; Humans ; Posture/*physiology ; Pressure/*adverse effects ; Pressure Ulcer/*etiology/prevention &amp; control ; Quadriplegia/*rehabilitation ; *Wheelchairs ; }, abstract = {The effects of back angle and leg height on sitting forces in a wheelchair were studied, using a force plate mounted on a wheelchair seat. Readings of both normal force (perpendicular to the seat) and shear force were measured while the chair's back angle and footrest height were changed. Pressure under the ischial tuberosities was also measured during the footrest height adjustments. Five normal subjects sat directly on the plate as well as upon ROHO and Jay cushions placed on the force plate. Returning the back to the upright position after a recline caused the normal force (+/- SD) to increase 5.4 +/- 2.5, 9.5 +/- 4.0, and 10.0 +/- 2.3 kg for the hard surface, Jay cushion, and ROHO cushion respectively, while shear at the plate increased to 5.1 +/- 2.2, 11.6 +/- 2.6, and 12.3 +/- 2.7 kg for the hard surface, Jay cushion, and ROHO cushion respectively. Leaning forward (away from the back) caused all the forces to return to measurements close to the starting values. The results suggest that the wheelchair user should momentarily lean forward after a recline to reduce undesired forces. If a cushion with firm thigh support is used, ischial tuberosity pressure can be reduced by lowering the leg height as much as possible, which causes a levering action by lifting the pelvis.}, }
@article {pmid2350253, year = {1990}, author = {Varaksin, AA and Usheva, LN and Zverkov, IV}, title = {[Location of immunoreactive leucine enkephalin in the digestive gland of the Mollusca Mizuhopecten yessoensis (Jay)].}, journal = {Arkhiv anatomii, gistologii i embriologii}, volume = {98}, number = {1}, pages = {71-74}, pmid = {2350253}, issn = {0004-1947}, mesh = {Animals ; Chromaffin System/*metabolism ; Digestive System/cytology/*metabolism ; Enkephalin, Leucine/analysis/*metabolism ; Enterochromaffin Cells/*metabolism ; Immunohistochemistry ; Mollusca/cytology/*metabolism ; Vacuoles/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Distribution of leu-enkephalin-like peptides in the digestive gland of the Japanese scallop has been investigated by means of the indirect immunohistochemical method. The immunoreactive leu-enkephalin is revealed in supranuclear vacuoles of separate large secretory cells. These cells are situated in epithelium of the digestive tubules along the gland periphery. Their number is from 1-3 up to 5-6 per tubue section. The basal part of the cell and small apical vacuoles do not contain any products of the reaction. It is possible that in the bivalve molluscs, as in vertebrates, the leu-enkephalin-immunoreactive elements participate in regulation of digestion.}, }
@article {pmid2313986, year = {1990}, author = {Hessemer, V and Heinrich, A and Jacobi, KW}, title = {[Changes in the circulation of the eye caused by Vörösmarthy preoperative ocular pressure].}, journal = {Klinische Monatsblatter fur Augenheilkunde}, volume = {196}, number = {1}, pages = {11-16}, doi = {10.1055/s-2008-1046120}, pmid = {2313986}, issn = {0023-2165}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Blood Pressure/*physiology ; Cataract Extraction/*methods ; Ciliary Body/blood supply ; Eye/*blood supply ; Female ; Humans ; Intraocular Pressure/*physiology ; Ischemia/physiopathology ; Lenses, Intraocular ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Ophthalmodynamometry ; Postoperative Complications/physiopathology ; Pressure ; Regional Blood Flow/physiology ; Retinal Vessels/physiopathology ; }, abstract = {Prior to, directly after and 15 minutes after preoperative Vörösmarthy oculopression (30, 40, or 50 mm Hg; 15 min), 30 patients were examined by oculooscillodynamography after Ulrich. Systolic retinal and ciliary perfusion pressures were higher directly after oculopression, whereas the systolic and diastolic ocular blood pressures (intramural pressures) were lower. These changes did not depend significantly on the level of oculopression. Fifteen minutes after oculopression, the ocular perfusion and blood pressures were largely normalized. The hemodynamic changes observed reflect the decrease in intraocular pressure resulting from oculopression. The changes are thought to have a beneficial effect on ocular perfusion (reduction in tissue pressure, decrease in vascular resistance, increase in transmural pressure). The authors' results are consistent with the finding in animal experiments that blood flow to the retina, optic nerve, and uvea increases for a short time after oculopression (Jay et al., Acta Ophthalmol. 1986).}, }
@article {pmid2304190, year = {1990}, author = {White, DH and Seginak, JT}, title = {Brain cholinesterase inhibition in songbirds from pecan groves sprayed with phosalone and disulfoton.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {103-106}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-26.1.103}, pmid = {2304190}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*metabolism ; Brain/enzymology ; Cholinesterase Inhibitors/*adverse effects ; Cholinesterases/metabolism ; Disulfoton/*adverse effects ; Georgia ; Insecticides/*adverse effects ; Organothiophosphorus Compounds/*adverse effects ; }, abstract = {Brain cholinesterase (ChE) activities of songbirds collected in pecan groves 6 to 7 hr after separate applications of the organophosphorus pesticides, phosalone and disulfoton, were compared to mean ChE activities of controls (normals) as a measure of insecticide exposure. In general, reduction of brain ChE activity greater than or equal to 2 standard deviations below the control mean indicates exposure to an anticholinesterase compound. Phosalone had little effect on brain ChE activity of birds from treated groves; only slight to moderate (21 to 38%) ChE inhibition was detected in blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) and red-bellied woodpeckers (Melanerpes carolinus). However, 11 of 15 blue jays from disulfoton-treated groves had moderate to severe ChE depression, ranging from 32 to 72%. Inhibition greater than or equal to 50% of normal may be diagnostic for cause of death. Direct mortality was not observed, but studies have shown that bird carcasses disappear rapidly from agricultural areas, many within 24 hr. We recommend additional field studies of the effects of disulfoton to wildlife, since large wheat-growing areas in the western United States are being considered for disulfoton treatment to control the Russian wheat aphid (Diuraphis noxia).}, }
@article {pmid2174631, year = {1990}, author = {Umehara, F and Izumo, S and Zyounosono, M and Osame, M}, title = {An autopsied case of the Crow-Fukase syndrome: a neuropathological study with emphasis on spinal roots.}, journal = {Acta neuropathologica}, volume = {80}, number = {5}, pages = {563-567}, pmid = {2174631}, issn = {0001-6322}, mesh = {Aged ; Autopsy ; Ganglia, Spinal/pathology ; Humans ; Male ; Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/*pathology ; Spinal Cord/pathology ; Spinal Nerve Roots/*pathology/ultrastructure ; Sural Nerve/pathology ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {An autopsied case of the Crow-Fukase syndrome is reported. Neuropathological findings were as follows: (1) in the sural nerve, there was marked decrease of large and small myelinated fibers. Myelinated fibers showing axonal degeneration and segmental demyelination and remyelination were moderately increased. (2) In the lumbar spinal roots, myelinated fibers showing segmental demyelination and remyelination were frequently observed. The density of myelinated fibers of the ventral root was less at the dural site than the spinal site, while that of the dorsal roots was less at the spinal site than the dural site. (3) In the dorsal root ganglion, there were Nageotte's residual nodules and satelliotosis; (4) in the lumbar and thoracic spinal cord, there was pallor of the dorsal column; and (5) nerve cells showing central chromatolysis were frequently observed in the spinal anterior horn cells. Segmental demyelination and remyelination in the spinal roots and loss of myelinated fibers with axonal degeneration in the sural nerve are main neuropathological features of this syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid2081238, year = {1990}, author = {Pearce, N}, title = {White swans, black ravens, and lame ducks: necessary and sufficient causes in epidemiology.}, journal = {Epidemiology (Cambridge, Mass.)}, volume = {1}, number = {1}, pages = {47-50}, doi = {10.1097/00001648-199001000-00011}, pmid = {2081238}, issn = {1044-3983}, mesh = {Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/epidemiology/etiology ; *Causality ; Chronic Disease/epidemiology ; Communicable Diseases/epidemiology/etiology ; *Epidemiologic Methods ; Humans ; *Logic ; *Models, Statistical ; Philosophy, Medical ; Science/methods ; }, abstract = {Several authors have used Popper's "white swan" example to support arguments for a falsificationist approach to epidemiology. The statement "all swans are white" cannot be verified by finding even a large number of white swans, but can be falsified by finding a single black swan. An analogous epidemiologic example that has been proposed is the hypothesis that a particular virus is a necessary cause of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Such examples, however, have little relevance to science since scientific theories are not generalizations of facts; rather, they involve an understanding of the underlying processes that cause certain facts to occur. Furthermore, the "white swan" example is particularly inapplicable to epidemiology, since most factors of scientific or public health importance are neither necessary nor sufficient causes of disease. Nevertheless, epidemiologic research has achieved success in the understanding and prevention of disease. These points are exemplified by applying Rothman's model of causal constellations, which provides a conceptual basis for the development of epidemiologic theories.}, }
@article {pmid2073535, year = {1990}, author = {Kazachenko, BN}, title = {[The genetic-demographic approach in anthropological research. VII. The influence of the social environment on the indices of the reproductive function in Khakass women].}, journal = {Nauchnye doklady vysshei shkoly. Biologicheskie nauki}, volume = {}, number = {11}, pages = {90-99}, pmid = {2073535}, issn = {0470-4606}, mesh = {Adult ; Anthropology/methods ; *Ethnicity ; Family ; Female ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy, Multiple ; *Reproduction ; Research Design ; Selection, Genetic ; Siberia/ethnology ; *Social Environment ; }, abstract = {The biodemographic parameters showing the influence of social factors upon the different elements of population and family structure are considered. It has been shown that the semi-generation time interval which corresponds to the duration of the active reproductive period of the generation is worth using to reveal the mechanisms of the social adaptation of the population. It has been found that socially determined differential fertility of families and genetically determined mortality in perinatal period are now the main components of the potential selection (index Crow).}, }
@article {pmid2603175, year = {1989}, author = {Diesfeldt, HF and Vink, MT}, title = {[Visual pattern analysis and reasoning: Ravens' Coloured Progressive Matrices in old-age and very-old-age adults].}, journal = {Tijdschrift voor gerontologie en geriatrie}, volume = {20}, number = {6}, pages = {241-247}, pmid = {2603175}, issn = {0167-9228}, mesh = {Aged/*psychology ; Aged, 80 and over/*psychology ; *Cognition ; Educational Status ; Female ; *Form Perception ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {Sixty-five non-demented elderly adults, born between 1895 and 1918 (mean age +/- sd: 80.0 +/- 5.4) were tested with Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM). Subjects were recruited from homes for the aged and were rated by the staff as free from any symptoms of dementia or other psychiatric disease. Mean number of years of education was 8.2 (range 5 to 18). CPM scores ranged from 9 to 35 with mean +/- sd of 25.9 +/- 5.9. Subjects who had received more formal education performed better on the CPM (Pearson's r: 0.49). When education was controlled for in the analysis, the correlation between age and performance was attenuated and did not reach statistical significance (Pearson's r: -0.24). Test results appeared to be specific for generations, regardless of age. Mean performance in this sample was significantly higher than less recently published norms suggest. Analysis of item content revealed that the CPM consists of three main types of problems: two of a predominantly visuospatial type (12 items of simple continuous pattern-completion and 15 concrete items showing progressive changes in one or two directions) and 9 items of an abstract reasoning type. The concrete visuospatial items appear very useful in the assessment of visuoperceptive dysfunction, as for example in visual apperceptive agnosia. The abstract matrices were very difficult for most of our elderly subjects, so that these items cannot be used to detect deviations from normal old age.}, }
@article {pmid2698295, year = {1989}, author = {Nakanishi, T}, title = {[Crow-Fukase syndrome].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {29}, number = {12}, pages = {1477-1484}, pmid = {2698295}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Adult ; Edema/pathology/physiopathology ; Endocrine System Diseases/pathology/physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Lymph Nodes/pathology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neural Conduction ; Paraproteinemias/pathology/physiopathology ; Peripheral Nerves/physiopathology ; *Pigmentation Disorders/pathology/physiopathology ; *Polyneuropathies/pathology/physiopathology ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {In Japan, Crow-Fukase syndrome is a target of active research because of many cases reported. Therefore, the following three topics regarding this syndrome were discussed. 1) Etiology of Crow-Fukase syndrome. Even in reported cases of Crow-Fukase syndrome with monoclonal protein or polyclonal immunoglobulins and no apparent multiple myeloma, there were plasmacytomas in the lymph node or other tissues, and symptoms became improved after removal of these tumors. Therefore, plasma cells seem to be involved. According to recent studies, impairment of the pituitary function may play some role. 2) New pathological findings in the lymph node histology. In the lymph node of patients with this syndrome, we found in its germinal center a peculiar abnormality called angiosclerosis, in which branching tortuous capillaries with thickened wall including many cells were prominent, which may be different from those of Castleman's disease. 3) Nerve conduction studies using a new collision technique. Crow-Fukase syndrome is associated with marked slowing of even the maximal motor and sensory conduction velocities. Therefore, in order to understand its pathophysiology better, submaximal conduction velocities should be measured using the new collision technique because this technique is different from Hopf's method that is affected by the refractory period of nerve fibers.}, }
@article {pmid2606469, year = {1989}, author = {Clifton, PG and Andrew, RJ}, title = {Contrasting effects of pre- and posthatch exposure to gonadal steroids on the development of vocal, sexual, and aggressive behavior of young domestic fowl.}, journal = {Hormones and behavior}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {572-589}, doi = {10.1016/0018-506x(89)90043-3}, pmid = {2606469}, issn = {0018-506X}, mesh = {Aggression/*drug effects ; Animals ; Arousal/drug effects ; Chickens ; Dihydrotestosterone/*analogs &amp; derivatives/pharmacology ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Estradiol/*pharmacology ; Male ; Sex Differentiation/*drug effects ; Sexual Behavior, Animal/*drug effects ; Sexual Maturation/*drug effects ; Testosterone/*pharmacology ; Vocalization, Animal/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {Prehatch treatment of domestic chicks with 17 beta-estradiol dipropionate (EDP) reduces later testosterone-facilitated sexual behavior, crowing, and suppression of peeping. Prehatch treatment with 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone propionate (DHTP) reduces later testosterone-facilitated aggressive behavior and produces greatly enhanced avoidance that interferes with sexual behavior in some test situations. It also disturbs crowing by removing trilled call elements and increasing the number of elements/crow but has little effect on crowing posture. The majority of these results can be understood as "demasculinizing" effects of gonadal steroids on the developing male fetus, but the possibility that some result from more extreme pathological changes is also discussed. Posthatch treatment with DHTP facilitates attack and cackling but has no effect on sexual behavior or crowing; the synthetic androgen R1881 has similar effects on cackling and also has no effect on sexual behavior or crowing. Posthatch treatment with EDP enhances sexual behavior but has no effect on attack; the aromatase inhibitor 1,4,6-Androstatrien-3,17-dione (ATD) blocked the suppression of peeping by testosterone but had no effect on testosterone-facilitated sexual behavior. Combined posthatch treatment with EDP and DHTP facilitated crowing although treatment with either steroid alone was ineffective.}, }
@article {pmid2606169, year = {1989}, author = {Martinov, SP and Pandarov, S and Popov, GV}, title = {Seroepizootology of Q fever in Bulgaria during the last five years.}, journal = {European journal of epidemiology}, volume = {5}, number = {4}, pages = {425-427}, doi = {10.1007/BF00140133}, pmid = {2606169}, issn = {0393-2990}, mesh = {Abortion, Septic/veterinary ; Abortion, Veterinary ; Animals ; Breeding ; Bulgaria ; Complement Fixation Tests/veterinary ; Female ; Humans ; Mastitis/veterinary ; Pregnancy ; Q Fever/drug therapy/*epidemiology ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; }, abstract = {The work presents results of investigations on Q fever seroepizootology in Bulgaria during the last five years. These data are compared with the preceding period from 1950 to 1983. The basic method for investigation is Complement fixation test. Also used are immunofluorescence, agglutination reaction, cultivation and direct Electron microscopy. In general 15,814 samples were tested. Q fever positivity was foundin 10.08% of cattle, 20.44% of sheep, 10.17% of goats, 59.25% of dogs, 26.66% of magpies, 11.11% of wood-pigeons, 7.40% of mouflons, 7.14% of foxes and 5.82% of hens. These data confirm the results of our preceding investigations for the wide dissemination of C. burnetti among domestic animals. Positive data for the significant spread of C. burnetti among the wild animals and birds also exists. The disease manifests itself clinically in abortions in sheep and cattle and mastitis in sheep. The inapparent form, however, is much more frequent. The infected dogs represent a special interest. The control measures are based on the wide use of tetracyclines. The presented data testify to the continuing importance of the problem of Q fever in Bulgaria.}, }
@article {pmid2559570, year = {1989}, author = {Thajeb, P and Chee, CY and Lo, SF and Lee, N}, title = {The POEMS syndrome among Chinese: association with Castleman's disease and some immunological abnormalities.}, journal = {Acta neurologica Scandinavica}, volume = {80}, number = {6}, pages = {492-500}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-0404.1989.tb03916.x}, pmid = {2559570}, issn = {0001-6314}, mesh = {Adult ; China ; Endocrine System Diseases/complications/epidemiology/*ethnology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Paraproteinemias/complications/epidemiology/*ethnology ; Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/complications/epidemiology/*ethnology ; Skin Diseases/complications/epidemiology/*ethnology ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {POEMS or Crow-Fukase syndrome is a multisystemic, clinically malignant disorder of obscure etiology. Peripheral neuropathy and plasma cell dyscrasia are central features. The authors now report 7 Chinese patients with this syndrome in which PCD or paraproteinemia were absent in 6, and 2 had a lymph node histology resembling that of hyaline-vascular Castleman's disease. Immunological abnormalities consisted of either increased or decreased numbers of B- and T-cells in 2 cases, and an elevated OKT4/OKT8 ratio with paradoxical dissociation of the lymphocyte transformations to various concentrations and types of mitogens in 1 case. This suggests that the underlying abnormalities of POEMS syndrome are heterogeneous and that it may be an immunologically related syndrome of varying etiology.}, }
@article {pmid2515042, year = {1989}, author = {Sigman, M and Neumann, C and Jansen, AA and Bwibo, N}, title = {Cognitive abilities of Kenyan children in relation to nutrition, family characteristics, and education.}, journal = {Child development}, volume = {60}, number = {6}, pages = {1463-1474}, pmid = {2515042}, issn = {0009-3920}, mesh = {*Aptitude ; Attention ; Body Height ; Body Weight ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Developing Countries ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Infant ; Intelligence Tests ; Kenya ; Learning Disabilities/*psychology ; Male ; Nutrition Surveys ; Protein-Energy Malnutrition/*psychology ; Risk Factors ; *Rural Population ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to determine whether nutritional factors, family characteristics, and the duration of schooling were associated with cognitive and attentional capacities in children growing up in rural Kenya. Food intake was measured by direct observation and weighment twice monthly over the course of a year. Families were characterized in terms of socioeconomic status and the literacy of the parents. Children who were better nourished had higher composite scores on a test of verbal comprehension and the Raven's matrices. Better-nourished females were more attentive during classroom observations than malnourished female schoolchildren. Family characteristics and duration of school participation were associated with cognitive abilities for both boys and girls. For the children considered as a group, cognitive scores were best predicted by a combination of factors including duration of schooling, food intake, physical stature, and SES.}, }
@article {pmid2514087, year = {1989}, author = {Arendt, G and Hefter, H and Elsing, C and Neuen-Jakob, E and Strohmeyer, G and Freund, HJ}, title = {[New electrophysiological findings on the incidence of brain involvement in clinically and neurologically asymptomatic HIV infections].}, journal = {EEG-EMG Zeitschrift fur Elektroenzephalographie, Elektromyographie und verwandte Gebiete}, volume = {20}, number = {4}, pages = {280-287}, pmid = {2514087}, issn = {0012-7590}, mesh = {AIDS-Related Complex/physiopathology ; Basal Ganglia Diseases/etiology ; Brain/pathology/*physiopathology ; Electrophysiology ; Female ; HIV Infections/pathology/*physiopathology ; HIV Seropositivity/physiopathology ; Humans ; Male ; Models, Statistical ; Motor Activity ; Psychometrics ; Reaction Time ; Tremor/etiology ; }, abstract = {Motor (postural tremor of the outstretched hands, most rapid voluntary alternating index finger movements and rise times of most rapid voluntary isometric index finger extensions) and psychometric tests (multiple choice vocabulary test - form b, syndrome short test, the German version of the standard progressive matrices - Raven, and the psychic and somatic findings according to the AMDP-system) as well as MRI-Scans were analysed in 100 HIV-infected patients of all stages according to the actual CDC-classification, but without any central-nervous or psychic deficit. Patients with drug, alcohol or tranquilizer abuse, opportunistic, cerebral infections or fever were excluded from the study. Tremor-peak-frequencies and reaction times did not show any significant difference to an age- and sex-matched control group; the other motor parameters revealed significant slowing in the patient group and a worsening with the CDC-stages. MRI-scans of all the patients were normal. The psychometric tests did not show significant alterations on a group statistical level, especially not in the depression scales. Morphologically, the motor performances of the HIV-infected patients resembled those of patients with basal ganglia diseases (M. Huntington, M. Wilson, M. Parkinson). Correspondingly, in some cases of clinically demented HIV-positive patients, MRI-scans showed lesions in the basal ganglia. It can be concluded, that there is an early subclinical central-nervous system affection in HIV-infected patients, especially of the basal ganglia, detectable with appropriate motor function tests sometimes considerably preceeding structural deficits seen later in the course of the disease in MRI-scans.}, }
@article {pmid2572595, year = {1989}, author = {Hayes, PH and Scott, GK and Ng, NF and Hew, CL and Davies, PL}, title = {Cystine-rich type II antifreeze protein precursor is initiated from the third AUG codon of its mRNA.}, journal = {The Journal of biological chemistry}, volume = {264}, number = {31}, pages = {18761-18767}, pmid = {2572595}, issn = {0021-9258}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Antifreeze Proteins ; Base Sequence ; Cloning, Molecular ; Codon/*genetics ; Cystine ; Exons ; Fishes/*genetics ; Freezing ; Gene Expression Regulation/*genetics ; Glycoproteins/*genetics ; Methionine/*genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Nucleic Acid Hybridization ; Polymorphism, Restriction Fragment Length ; Protein Precursors/*genetics ; RNA, Messenger/*genetics ; Regulatory Sequences, Nucleic Acid ; }, abstract = {The primary translation product encoded by sea raven antifreeze protein mRNA was labeled during cell-free synthesis with [3H]leucine. N-terminal sequencing of the immunoselected translation product showed that the third AUG in the mRNA is used as the initiating methionine codon. The antifreeze protein precursor is therefore 163 amino acids long. Amino acid analysis and sequencing of the deblocked N-terminal peptide from the mature circulating form of the antifreeze indicated that glutamine at position 35 is the N-terminal residue. The most likely site of signal peptide cleavage is after alanine at position 17, suggesting that the sea raven antifreeze protein is produced as a preproprotein. Analysis of slot blots indicates that the gene for the antifreeze protein is present in 12-15 copies in the sea raven genome. A representative gene copy was sequenced. It is split into six exons spanning 2.2 kilobase pairs and, based on composite maps of genomic clones, is not accompanied by a second copy within at least 25 kilobase pairs of flanking DNA. The transcription start site was determined by primer extension. Ninety base pairs upstream from this point, beyond the CAAT and TATA boxes, is a putative cis-acting regulatory element in the form of a triplicated 21-base pair tandem repeat.}, }
@article {pmid2689863, year = {1989}, author = {Green, JE and Begley, CG and Wagner, DK and Waldmann, TA and Jay, G}, title = {trans activation of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor and the interleukin-2 receptor in transgenic mice carrying the human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 tax gene.}, journal = {Molecular and cellular biology}, volume = {9}, number = {11}, pages = {4731-4737}, pmid = {2689863}, issn = {0270-7306}, mesh = {Animals ; Blotting, Northern ; Colony-Stimulating Factors/biosynthesis/*genetics ; *Genes, Viral ; Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor ; Growth Substances/biosynthesis/*genetics ; Histocytochemistry ; Human T-lymphotropic virus 1/*genetics ; Humans ; Mice ; Mice, Transgenic ; Receptors, Interleukin-2/*genetics/metabolism ; Trans-Activators/genetics ; Transcription, Genetic ; Transcriptional Activation/*genetics ; Tumor Cells, Cultured ; }, abstract = {Three lines of transgenic mice carrying the human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 tax gene have previously been reported to develop neurofibromas composed of perineural fibroblasts (S. H. Hinrichs, M. Nerenberg, R. K. Reynolds, G. Khoury, and G. Jay, Science 237:1340-1343, 1987; M. Nerenberg, S. H. Hinrichs, R. K. Reynolds, G. Khoury, and G. Jay, Science 237:1324-1329, 1987). Tumors from these mice and tumor cell lines derived from them expressed high levels of tax RNA and protein. They also expressed high levels of the granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) gene as measured by proliferative responses of FD-CP1 target cells using conditioned media from tumor cells and by Northern (RNA) blot analysis of RNA from tumors and tumor cell lines. Although other tissues, such as salivary glands and muscles, in the transgenic mice also expressed high levels of tax, they did not express the gene for GM-CSF. This indicates that tissue-specific cellular factors, in addition to tax, are required for GM-CSF gene expression. Systemic effects of excessive GM-CSF production were demonstrated by infiltration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes into tumor tissues which are not necrotic, by peripheral granulocytosis, and by splenomegaly resulting from myeloid hyperplasia. The interleukin-2 (IL-2) receptor was also found to be expressed by the tumors and tumor cell lines as measured by IL-2-binding and cross-linking studies. This is the first demonstration that the IL-2 receptor can be activated by tax in a nonlymphoid cell type. These in vivo findings are consistent with other reports which have demonstrated in vitro cis-regulatory elements within the 5'-flanking regions of the genes for GM-CSF and the IL-2 receptor which are responsive to trans activation by the tax gene.}, }
@article {pmid2629389, year = {1989}, author = {Zorina, ZA and Salimov, RM}, title = {[Evaluation of the ability to solve the Revecz-Krushinskiĭ test in corvine birds].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {39}, number = {6}, pages = {1056-1060}, pmid = {2629389}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Computer Simulation ; Decision Trees ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Models, Psychological ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Psychophysiology ; Stochastic Processes ; }, abstract = {Reasoning ability in crows was investigated by means of the Revecz-Krushinskiĭ test, in which the bird has to apprehend the rule of stimulus (food bait) displacement: "In each next trial the food bait is hidden in a new place--one step further along the row". By means of computer modelling the criteria of statistical evaluation of this problem solving were established. The test was considered solved when the number of trials which preceded the detection of food was less than those which were calculated for chance performance. High level of reasoning ability in crows is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid2813300, year = {1989}, author = {Artner, K and Barthlen-Weis, M and Offenberg, M}, title = {[Intelligence assessment using the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children: a pilot study of a sample of children with language development disorders].}, journal = {Praxis der Kinderpsychologie und Kinderpsychiatrie}, volume = {38}, number = {8}, pages = {299-303}, pmid = {2813300}, issn = {0032-7034}, mesh = {Child ; Child Development ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Language Development Disorders/*psychology ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {The German version of the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children, which will soon be available commercially, was administered to 29 children with developmental speech and language disorders between 7;4 and 11;11 years of age who were patients on an inpatient child psychiatry unit. The correlations of the test results with the WISC-R (German version), the AID (a German intelligence test) and the Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices were calculated; furthermore, an assessment was made for differences in performance on tasks requiring sequential processing and those requiring simultaneous processing. The results of the study indicate that the K-ABC enables a relatively broad-based assessment of cognitive development in speech-and language-disordered children despite the children's verbal handicaps and that the instrument yields information of relevance in planning remedial programs.}, }
@article {pmid2795648, year = {1989}, author = {Olurin, J and Sturmey, P}, title = {The psychometric properties of the Social Training and Achievement Record: II. Reliabilities and concurrent validities.}, journal = {Journal of mental deficiency research}, volume = {33 (Pt 5)}, number = {}, pages = {423-427}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2788.1989.tb01497.x}, pmid = {2795648}, issn = {0022-264X}, mesh = {*Activities of Daily Living ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*diagnosis ; Intelligence ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {Three studies are reported which investigated the test-retest and inter-rater reliabilities of the Social Training and Achievement Record as well as concurrent validities with intelligence. Reliabilities of total and sub-scale scores as well as individual items are reported. Test-retest reliabilities over the period of one month were good for total scores, subscale scores and individual items. Inter-rater reliabilities were more modest. At times, inter-rater reliabilities of a small proportion of items were only at chance levels. Concurrent validities with Raven's Matrices and the Weschler Adult Intelligence Scale were comparable with other measures of adaptive behaviour. The role of direct observation in the assessment of adaptive behaviour, in particular with respect to individual skills being selected for teaching, is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid2695805, year = {1989}, author = {Bruwer, A}, title = {Thoughts after reading Robert Jay Lifton's 'The Nazi Doctors'.}, journal = {Medicine and war}, volume = {5}, number = {4}, pages = {185-196}, doi = {10.1080/07488008908408877}, pmid = {2695805}, issn = {0748-8009}, mesh = {Codes of Ethics ; *Concentration Camps ; *Ethics, Medical ; Female ; Germany ; *Homicide ; Humans ; Internationality ; Jews ; *Literature, Modern ; Male ; *National Socialism ; *Physicians ; *Prisons ; *Professional Misconduct ; World War II ; }, abstract = {Robert Jay Lifton's remarkable book The Nazi Doctors and its tragic subject matter provided an opportunity to try and place the complicity of doctors in such barbarity in historical perspective. Massive episodes of killing of human beings by other human beings have been an ongoing saga for centuries. Misguided belief and misguided science, and the abuse of constantly advancing technology in the name of one or other nation-state, have made possible the acceleration of megadeath. The Nazi concentration and death camps were a particularly vicious manifestation within the spectrum of killing. Modern weaponry makes omnicide quite feasible. Our urgent need is to learn the lesson and to cultivate and promote planetary patriotism as promptly as possible. Adherence to an international code of human ethics is a compelling requirement. The origin of the International Committee of the Red Cross in 1863 was an inspiring and promising beginning. The formulation of the Declaration of Geneva by the World Medical Association in 1947 profoundly enhanced the value of the Hippocratic Oath and provides a sound ethical basis for the national and international guidance of the medical profession today. The International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War establishes another firm step in the right direction.}, }
@article {pmid2681844, year = {1989}, author = {Brochier, B and Blancou, J and Thomas, I and Languet, B and Artois, M and Kieny, MP and Lecocq, JP and Costy, F and Desmettre, P and Chappuis, G}, title = {Use of recombinant vaccinia-rabies glycoprotein virus for oral vaccination of wildlife against rabies: innocuity to several non-target bait consuming species.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {25}, number = {4}, pages = {540-547}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-25.4.540}, pmid = {2681844}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Administration, Oral ; Animals ; *Animals, Wild ; Arvicolinae ; Birds ; *Carnivora ; Muridae ; Rabies/prevention &amp; control/*veterinary ; Rabies Vaccines/administration &amp; dosage/*adverse effects/immunology ; Swine ; Vaccines, Attenuated/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/immunology ; Vaccines, Synthetic/administration &amp; dosage/adverse effects/immunology ; Vero Cells ; }, abstract = {The pathogenicity of a vaccinia recombinant virus expressing the rabies glycoprotein (VVTGgRAB) was tested in several wild animal species which could compete with the natural rabies host, the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) in consuming vaccine baits in Europe. The following species were included in this study: wild boar (Sus scrofa), Eurasian badger (Meles meles), wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus), yellow-necked mouse (Apodemus flavicollis), bank vole (Clethrionomys glareolus), common vole (Microtus arvalis), field vole (Microtus agrestis), water vole (Arvicola terrestris), common buzzard (Buteo buteo), kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), carrion crow (Corvus corone), magpie (Pica pica) and jay (Garrulus glandarius). During the observation period, the 107 animals given the VVTGgRAB vaccine orally did not show any clinical signs. Daily monitoring for 28 days and postmortem examination did not result in the detection of pox lesions in the oral mucosa or the skin in mammals or the unfeathered portions of birds. VVTGgRAB seems to multiply in the mammalian species tested, since rabies seroconversion was observed in all of them. Birds failed to develop demonstrable rabies virus-neutralizing antibody. A seroconversion against vaccinia virus was observed in two of four wild boars. Serological results obtained in badgers and wild boars also demonstrates the absence of direct or indirect horizontal transmission of the recombinant virus. The potential of the recombinant virus for the immunization of badgers against rabies also was investigated. Only 50% of the badgers orally administered with 1 x 10(8.3) TCID50 of this vaccine were protected against rabies.}, }
@article {pmid2602220, year = {1989}, author = {Rolon, PG and Audouin, J and Diebold, J and Rolon, PA and González, A}, title = {Multicentric angiofollicular lymph node hyperplasia associated with a solitary osteolytic costal IgG lambda myeloma. POEMS syndrome in a South American (Paraguayan) patient.}, journal = {Pathology, research and practice}, volume = {185}, number = {4}, pages = {468-75; discussion 476-9}, doi = {10.1016/S0344-0338(89)80064-0}, pmid = {2602220}, issn = {0344-0338}, mesh = {Bone Neoplasms/*complications ; Castleman Disease/*complications/pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Immunoglobulin G ; Middle Aged ; Plasmacytoma/*complications ; *Ribs ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {We report the case of a 46-year-old woman presenting with a disorder characterized by the association of multicentric Castleman's disease, organomegaly, a solitary IgA lambda myeloma with lytic bone lesions but no serum monoclonal peak, peripheral neuropathy and skin changes. This unusual association resulted in an incomplete form of that peculiar multisystem syndrome described under a variety of names: Crow-Fukase syndrome, Shimpo's syndrome, Takatsuki's syndrome, PEP syndrome or POEMS syndrome. The possible relationship between localized and multicentric Castleman's disease with myeloma or extramedullary plasmacytoma on one hand and on the other hand with polyneuropathy and the other symptoms of the POEMS syndrome is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid2790318, year = {1989}, author = {Diesfeldt, H and Vink, M}, title = {Recognition memory for words and faces in the very old.}, journal = {The British journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {28}, number = {3}, pages = {247-253}, doi = {10.1111/j.2044-8260.1989.tb01374.x}, pmid = {2790318}, issn = {0144-6657}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over/*psychology ; Attention ; Face ; Female ; *Form Perception ; Humans ; Male ; *Memory ; *Mental Recall ; Neuropsychological Tests ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Semantics ; *Verbal Learning ; }, abstract = {The assessment of very elderly people is hindered by a scarcity of normative and reliability data for non-verbal memory tests. We tested the suitability of Warrington's Recognition Memory Test (RMT) for use with the elderly. The RMT consists of verbal (Recognition Memory for Words, RMW) and non-verbal (Recognition Memory for Faces, RMF) subtests. The facial recognition test was used in the standard format and a Dutch-language version of the word recognition test was developed using low frequency (10 or less/million) monosyllabic words. Eighty-nine subjects, varying in age from 69 to 93, were tested with the RMF. Means and SD are provided for three age groups (69-79, 80-84 and 85-93). Forty-five consecutive subjects were tested both with the RMW and the RMF. Recognition memory for words was better than recognition memory for faces in this sample. Moderate correlations (0.30-0.48) were found between RMT and WAIS Vocabulary and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices scores. Warrington's RMT was well tolerated, even by very elderly adults. The standardization data for the elderly over 70 add to the usefulness of this test of verbal and non-verbal episodic memory.}, }
@article {pmid2789816, year = {1989}, author = {Shuttleworth, EC and Huber, SJ}, title = {The picture absurdities test in the evaluation of dementia.}, journal = {Brain and cognition}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {50-59}, doi = {10.1016/0278-2626(89)90004-3}, pmid = {2789816}, issn = {0278-2626}, mesh = {Aged ; Alzheimer Disease/*diagnosis/psychology ; *Attention ; Dementia/*diagnosis/psychology ; Dementia, Vascular/*diagnosis/psychology ; Depressive Disorder/*diagnosis/psychology ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Female ; *Form Perception ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Recall ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Orientation ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Psychomotor Performance ; }, abstract = {Recognition of picture absurdities was found to be significantly impaired in a group of patients with dementia of Alzheimer type compared to patients with dementia syndrome of depression and cerebrovascular dementia, even when matched for age, education, and dementia severity. None of the other neuropsychological measures investigated, including visual recent memory, Raven's progressive matrices, geographic orientation, and copying of geometric figures, resulted in a similar pattern. Although uncertainty remains as to what the picture absurdities test measures, normal performance likely depends on the integrity of many independently assessable variables, in addition to cognition and judgment utilizing visual data.}, }
@article {pmid2773846, year = {1989}, author = {Pollitt, E and Hathirat, P and Kotchabhakdi, NJ and Missell, L and Valyasevi, A}, title = {Iron deficiency and educational achievement in Thailand.}, journal = {The American journal of clinical nutrition}, volume = {50}, number = {3 Suppl}, pages = {687-96; discussion 696-7}, doi = {10.1093/ajcn/50.3.687}, pmid = {2773846}, issn = {0002-9165}, mesh = {Anthelmintics/administration &amp; dosage ; Blood Cell Count ; Child ; Erythrocyte Volume ; Erythrocytes/analysis ; Ferritins/analysis ; Ferrous Compounds/therapeutic use ; Hematocrit ; Hemoglobinopathies/diagnosis ; Hemoglobins/analysis ; Humans ; Intelligence ; *Iron Deficiencies ; Learning Disabilities/*etiology ; Protoporphyrins/blood ; Thailand ; Thalassemia/diagnosis ; Transferrin/analysis ; }, abstract = {This double-blind clinical trial was conducted in Thailand to assess the impact of iron treatment on the IQ and educational attainment of 1358 9-11-y-old children. The children were classified into one of three groups: iron replete, iron depleted, and iron-deficient anemic. The Raven Progressive Matrices was used to measure IQ. A Thai language and a math test were administered to assess school attainment. A 50-mg/d tablet of ferrous sulphate was given for 2 wk and a 100 mg/d tablet, for 14 wk. An anthelminthic drug was given on the day of the blood test before treatment and 3 mo after the intervention started. There is evidence of a positive association between iron status and IQ and a language school achievement test but there is no support for the internal validity of the hypothesis that this association is causal.}, }
@article {pmid2674225, year = {1989}, author = {Leyden, JJ and Grove, GL and Grove, MJ and Thorne, EG and Lufrano, L}, title = {Treatment of photodamaged facial skin with topical tretinoin.}, journal = {Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology}, volume = {21}, number = {3 Pt 2}, pages = {638-644}, doi = {10.1016/s0190-9622(89)70231-0}, pmid = {2674225}, issn = {0190-9622}, mesh = {Adult ; Aging ; Clinical Trials as Topic ; Double-Blind Method ; Face ; Female ; Humans ; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted ; Middle Aged ; Random Allocation ; Skin Diseases/diagnosis/*drug therapy/etiology ; Tretinoin/administration &amp; dosage/pharmacology/*therapeutic use ; Ultraviolet Rays/*adverse effects ; }, abstract = {A 6-month, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled study was conducted with 0.05% tretinoin cream once daily in the treatment of photodamaged facial skin. Significant amelioration of many of the signs of photodamage were achieved with minimal side effects. Clinical grading showed significant improvement both in the assessments based on changes in clinical scores and in pre- and posttreatment comparisons of standardized photographs. Fine wrinkling, coarse wrinkling, sallowness, looseness, and hyperpigmentation were significantly improved with tretinoin therapy. Furthermore, a self-appraisal questionnaire indicated that tretinoin-treated patients, but not vehicle-treated patients, were able to perceive improvement in their facial appearance. An objective method based on digital image processing of silicone rubber casts obtained from the crow's-feet area also indicated that the skin surface topography was smoother and less wrinkled in the tretinoin-treated group compared with the vehicle-control group.}, }
@article {pmid2809391, year = {1989}, author = {Honma, T and Imai, H and Nakamoto, Y and Miura, AB}, title = {[Crow-Fukase syndrome accompanied by pericardial effusion: report of a case].}, journal = {Nihon Naika Gakkai zasshi. The Journal of the Japanese Society of Internal Medicine}, volume = {78}, number = {8}, pages = {1199-1200}, doi = {10.2169/naika.78.1199}, pmid = {2809391}, issn = {0021-5384}, mesh = {Adult ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Echocardiography ; Edema/complications ; Female ; Humans ; Immunoglobulin A/analysis ; Paraproteinemias/complications ; Pericardial Effusion/*complications/diagnosis ; Polyneuropathies/*complications ; Syndrome ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, }
@article {pmid2805125, year = {1989}, author = {Weiss, P}, title = {[Psychological predictors of recidivism in sex offenders].}, journal = {Ceskoslovenska psychiatrie}, volume = {85}, number = {4}, pages = {250-255}, pmid = {2805125}, issn = {0069-2336}, mesh = {Humans ; Paraphilic Disorders/psychology/*therapy ; Psychological Tests ; Psychotherapy ; Recurrence ; Sex Offenses/*psychology ; }, abstract = {Based on comparison of results of psychological examinations of 24 recidivists and 25 patients having compulsive sexuological treatment, who within a three-year period after taking a specialized sexuological course did not relapse, the author detected some differences which appear to be significant for the prediction of successful treatment. As to psychodiagnostic methods (Hand test, Raven, EPI, DOPEN, MAS, Sullivan-Adelson, ICL, MMPI), the most marked differences between the investigated groups were found in Raven's test of progressive matrices and in the Minnesota personality inventory. Based on the assembled results it may be assumed that there is a higher risk of relapses of sexual delinquency in patients with inadequate defence against mental weakness, in psychoasthenic and schizoid personalities. Higher intelligence is in this context a favourable prognostic factor.}, }
@article {pmid2765145, year = {1989}, author = {Barnes, SJ and Mercer, DM and Cochrane, TD}, title = {Flash burns to the face.}, journal = {Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {250-251}, doi = {10.1016/0305-4179(89)90042-9}, pmid = {2765145}, issn = {0305-4179}, mesh = {Adult ; Burns/*pathology ; Burns, Electric/*pathology ; *Eye ; Facial Injuries/*pathology ; Gasoline/adverse effects ; Humans ; Male ; }, abstract = {A characteristic 'crow's foot' pattern is seen around the eye in many flash burns. The protective blink reflex underlies this, and the injury is due to convected rather than radiant energy.}, }
@article {pmid2763033, year = {1989}, author = {Anderson, BO and Sun, JH and Moore, EE and Thompson, LL and Harkin, AH and Bartle, EJ}, title = {The development and evaluation of a clinical test of surgical resident proficiency.}, journal = {Surgery}, volume = {106}, number = {2}, pages = {347-52; discussion 352-3}, doi = {10.1002/bjs.1800760938}, pmid = {2763033}, issn = {0039-6060}, mesh = {Adult ; Appendicitis/diagnosis ; Female ; General Surgery/*education ; Humans ; *Internship and Residency ; Intestinal Perforation/diagnosis ; Laparotomy ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Professional Competence/*standards ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {The two purposes of this study were to develop a clinical test of surgical resident proficiency and to compare this clinical test with currently applied methods of resident evaluation. Appendicitis is a common surgical disease, and its accurate diagnosis depends largely on clinical acumen. Ten third-year surgical residents prospectively evaluated 107 patients admitted because of suspected appendicitis. After taking a history, performing a physical examination, and reviewing laboratory data, these residents were asked to state, as a percentage, the likelihood that each patient had appendicitis. Sixty-three patients had appendicitis documented by pathologic inspection after appendectomy. Forty-four patients did not have appendicitis, as was determined by operation (17) or by in-house observation and resolution of abdominal pain (27). These outcomes were used to calculate a diagnostic ability score (DAS) for each resident. Residents were evaluated by standard methods including in-service examinations and monthly evaluations by the attending staff. Residents were also evaluated by nonstandard, but potentially useful, neuropsychologic and psychologic tests, including the trail making test, the Ravens progressive matrices test, the paced auditory serial addition test (PASAT), the grooved pegboard test of manual dexterity, and the profile of mood states (POMS) psychologic questionnaire. Cumulative scores were calculated and compared by multiple regression with coefficient variance analysis. The correlation (R2) of DAS with standard evaluation techniques was as follows: In-service (0.055), faculty (0.508), trails (-0.293), Ravens (0.028), PASAT (0.251), dexterity (0.432), POMS (0.381). We found that (1) the DAS is a discriminating clinical test; (2) the DAS correlates with subjective faculty evaluation; and (3) the DAS does not correlate with in-service examination scores. We conclude that faculty evaluation remains the best currently applied test of surgical resident clinical proficiency as measured by the DAS.}, }
@article {pmid2816051, year = {1989}, author = {Zorina, ZA and Kalinina, TA and Markina, NV}, title = {[The learning capacity of crows and pigeons: the formation of a system of color stimulus discrimination with an increasing number of reinforcements].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {39}, number = {4}, pages = {660-666}, pmid = {2816051}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Aging/physiology ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Color ; Color Perception/*physiology ; Columbidae/*physiology ; Conditioning, Classical/physiology ; Discrimination Learning/*physiology ; Extinction, Psychological/physiology ; Photic Stimulation/methods ; *Reinforcement, Psychology ; }, }
@article {pmid2806182, year = {1989}, author = {Roudier, M and Marcie, P and Podrabinek, N and Lamour, Y and Davous, P}, title = {[Quantified neuropsychological study in senile dementia of Alzheimer's type].}, journal = {L'Encephale}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {397-403}, pmid = {2806182}, issn = {0013-7006}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Agnosia/diagnosis ; Alzheimer Disease/physiopathology/*psychology ; Apraxias/diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; Language Disorders/diagnosis ; Male ; Memory Disorders/diagnosis ; *Neuropsychological Tests/standards ; }, abstract = {Forty six patients affected by senile dementia of the Alzheimer type and 20 control subjects of similar age, sex and educational level have been studied, using a quantified neuropsychological battery (Wechsler memory scale, Raven progressive matrices and quantified tests for aphasia, apraxia and agnosia). There was a significant correlation between the scores of all cognitive functions with one another and with the Mini Mental State. The results show a rather global impairment of cognitive functions in these patients and suggest that intellectual impairment progresses as a continuum in senile dementia of the Alzheimer type.}, }
@article {pmid2802400, year = {1989}, author = {Serrano Luna, JL and Sabater García, A}, title = {[Prognosis for encopresis].}, journal = {Anales espanoles de pediatria}, volume = {31}, number = {1}, pages = {10-14}, pmid = {2802400}, issn = {0302-4342}, mesh = {Child ; Child, Preschool ; Encopresis/drug therapy/*physiopathology/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Prognosis ; }, abstract = {Here is presented a study concerning a hundred children with encopresis, aged from three to twelve years old, controlled for eleven years, so that the period of its evolution can be determined. We have contrasted the data with that obtained by other authors referring to different parameters: pregnancy, delivery, neonatal pathology, etc. We have compared the study of the prediction concerning the time of its evolution, and we have only found two citations in the looked-up bibliography. We have concluded that this time of evolution will be the more shortened when it is a secondary encopresis, there is good scholastic performance, there aren't any disturbances in the EEG, when the dark enema is normal, because the C1 in the Goodenough test is bigger, and so is the percentage in the Raven test and when there is no feeling of guilt, jealousy or introversion.}, }
@article {pmid2664233, year = {1989}, author = {Couch, NP}, title = {About heparin, or ... whatever happened to Jay McLean?.}, journal = {Journal of vascular surgery}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {1-8}, pmid = {2664233}, issn = {0741-5214}, mesh = {Heparin/*history ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid2789446, year = {1989}, author = {Kryger, P and Jensen, EM}, title = {[Alternative treatment of patients with rheumatism. The extent, effect and utilization of resources].}, journal = {Ugeskrift for laeger}, volume = {151}, number = {26}, pages = {1684-1687}, pmid = {2789446}, issn = {0041-5782}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; *Complementary Therapies ; Costs and Cost Analysis ; Denmark ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Rheumatic Diseases/economics/*therapy ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; }, abstract = {An anonymous questionnaire investigation involving 393 rheumatological patients showed that 185 patients (47%) had tried alternative treatment (52% of the women and 33% of the men). The three forms of treatment most commonly employed were chiropractor treatment, zone therapy and acupuncture. The 185 patients had, on an average, tried 2.2 types of treatment and 30% had tried more than two forms of treatment. One third of the patients had tried alternative treatment before or simultaneously with medical treatment while the remaining 2/3 had received medical treatment from weeks up to several years. The sources of information about alternative treatment were, most frequently, friends and relatives (70%) while in 16%, the general practitioner was the source. Only 58% replied to the question about the effect of the alternative treatment. Out of these, 56% had experienced improvement, 41% stated that there was no effect and 2% stated that deterioration had occurred. On an average, the patients had employed 2,444 Danish crows (approximately 200 pounds) for the alternative treatment. In addition, 6% stated that had spent more than 10,000 Danish crowns (approximately 833 pounds). It is concluded that alternative treatment frequently constitutes a considerable economical stress for the patients. Greater frankness and a increased level of information about the alternative forms of treatment are necessary.}, }
@article {pmid2794667, year = {1989}, author = {Soma, J and Kinoshita, Y and Sato, H and Akiu, N and Ootaka, T and Ogawa, M and Tanno, A and Endo, K and Saito, T and Yoshinaga, K}, title = {[A case of Crow-Fukase syndrome with renal failure: its glomerular lesions are different from membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis].}, journal = {Nihon Naika Gakkai zasshi. The Journal of the Japanese Society of Internal Medicine}, volume = {78}, number = {6}, pages = {844-845}, doi = {10.2169/naika.78.844}, pmid = {2794667}, issn = {0021-5384}, mesh = {Adult ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Endocrine System Diseases ; Female ; Glomerular Mesangium/*pathology/ultrastructure ; Glomerulonephritis, Membranoproliferative/*pathology ; Humans ; Kidney Diseases/*pathology ; Polyneuropathies ; Skin Diseases ; Syndrome ; }, }
@article {pmid2755076, year = {1989}, author = {}, title = {[Elias and the raven. Miraculous feeding].}, journal = {Krankenpflege Journal}, volume = {27}, number = {6}, pages = {88}, pmid = {2755076}, issn = {0174-108X}, mesh = {*Ambulatory Care ; *Bible ; Humans ; *Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; *Religion and Medicine ; }, }
@article {pmid2640710, year = {1989}, author = {Skłodowski, H and Stańczak, J and Gaszyński, W and Zboralski, K}, title = {[Psychological evaluation of postoperative pain and its significance for treatment].}, journal = {Polski tygodnik lekarski (Warsaw, Poland : 1960)}, volume = {44}, number = {20}, pages = {456-459}, pmid = {2640710}, issn = {0032-3756}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Humans ; Manifest Anxiety Scale ; Meperidine/therapeutic use ; Pain Measurement/methods ; Pain, Postoperative/diagnosis/etiology/*psychology/therapy ; Psychophysiologic Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology/therapy ; Stress, Psychological/*complications ; Surgical Procedures, Operative/*psychology ; Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation ; }, abstract = {The results of tests applied to two groups of the patients who underwent elective surgeries are being discussed. The patients were selected with the aid of J.C. Raven's Intelligence Quotient, H.J. Eysenck's Personality Inventory, J. Taylor's Personality Scale, and Spielberg's S.T.A.I. The patients were operated at the Casualty and Orthopaedic Surgery Department of the Surgical Institute, Military Academy of Medicine. Postoperative analgesia was achieved with i.m. pethidine (1 mg/kg b.w.) in the group of 30 patients with low intensity of neurosis and anxiety while the group of 60 patients with high level of neurosis and anxiety required three different techniques: pethidine (dose as above) intravenously, electric stimulation and placebo stimulation. The following tests were applied to all patients before surgery and on the three postoperative days: 1) evaluation of anxiety level, 2) determination and detection of pain points, 3) pain intensity determination, 4) determination of the dose of analgetic agent required for pain abolishment. Other factors determined included: 1) efficiency of both electric and placebo efficacy, 2) analgesic drug dose vs. pain intensity, 3) pain vs. anxiety ratio. The obtained results indicated that considerable oscillations of the emotional tension are observed in both pre- and postoperative periods. Intensity of pain and its compliance to the treatment are closely related to the level of anxiety. Psychological examination performed in patients preoperatively enables to foresee the postoperative pain intensity and to plan the course of therapy.}, }
@article {pmid2745585, year = {1989}, author = {Picaud, R and Caamano, A}, title = {[A technic of fundus vagotomy].}, journal = {Journal de chirurgie}, volume = {126}, number = {5}, pages = {334-337}, pmid = {2745585}, issn = {0021-7697}, mesh = {Esophagus/surgery ; Gastric Fundus/*surgery ; Humans ; Vagotomy/*methods ; Vagus Nerve/anatomy &amp; histology/surgery ; }, abstract = {High recurrence rates after fundic vagotomy are mainly related to incomplete vagotomy at the level of abdominal oesophagus or antrum. 5-7 cm of oesophagus must be denudated and 6-7 cm of the antrum are left innervated, the most proximal branch of the "crow's foot" being divided. Finally, anterior and posterior peritonealized surfaces are approximated with fundoplicature around the oesophagus.}, }
@article {pmid2736341, year = {1989}, author = {Annett, M and Manning, M}, title = {The disadvantages of dextrality for intelligence.}, journal = {British journal of psychology (London, England : 1953)}, volume = {80 (Pt 2)}, number = {}, pages = {213-226}, doi = {10.1111/j.2044-8295.1989.tb02315.x}, pmid = {2736341}, issn = {0007-1269}, mesh = {Cerebral Cortex/physiology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; *Functional Laterality ; Hand/physiology ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Polymorphism, Genetic ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; }, abstract = {The right shift (RS) theory of handedness suggests that the human bias to dextrality has costs as well as benefits. Samples of children from six primary schools were individually tested for hand preference, hand skill and Raven's Matrices. Scores on standardized educational tests recently given by teachers were available for three schools. When children were stratified for ability, the distributions of hand preference and of right minus left (R-L) hand skill were as expected if extent of RS is inversely related to ability. When children were classified for R-L score, the most strongly dextral children were poorer than all others for Matrices, English and several other tests. The trend for ability to decline from left to right across the laterality continuum was consistent for all scores available. Strong dextrality is associated with weak left-hand skill, not good right-hand skill, in accord with the hypothesis that the costs of RS are to the right hemisphere. The findings and their interpretation are discussed in comparison with Geschwind's theory of developmental pathology, and for their implications for theories of hemisphere specialization.}, }
@article {pmid2761497, year = {1989}, author = {Donati, L and Venturi, S and Andreani, M and Antonelli, A and Gori, E and Bertoni, F and Pruneti, CA and Berrettini, S and Bruschini, P and Baschieri, L}, title = {[Audiological and neuropsychological development study in a sample of school children from a low-iodine area of the Central Apennines that is endemic for cretinism].}, journal = {Minerva endocrinologica}, volume = {14}, number = {2}, pages = {99-103}, pmid = {2761497}, issn = {0391-1977}, mesh = {Child ; *Child Development ; Congenital Hypothyroidism/*epidemiology/physiopathology ; Female ; Goiter, Endemic/*epidemiology/physiopathology ; *Hearing Tests ; Humans ; Italy ; Male ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; *Psychology, Child ; }, abstract = {We have evaluated neuropsychic development in 70 normal schoolchildren in an area of severe endemic goitre and cretinism in the Central Apennines (Montefeltro). In each subject we have studied auxological, psychometric and audiometric parameters, together with tympanograms and stapedial reflexograms. Auxological data were in the normal range, as were the stapedial reflexograms and tympanograms. On the contrary, 54.8% of the sample performed below the 25th percentile in psychometric tests (Raven test PM-47), being also 22.8% below the 5th percentile. Audiometric data showed a neurological hearing impairment in 3.1% of the children tested, as compared with 0.28% in the area of Pisa. These data point out that an impairment of central nervous system function still persists in this area of severe endemic goitre.}, }
@article {pmid2723683, year = {1989}, author = {Jennekens-Schinkel, A and van der Velde, EA and Sanders, EA and Lanser, JB}, title = {Visuospatial problem solving, conceptual reasoning and sorting behaviour in multiple sclerosis out-patients.}, journal = {Journal of the neurological sciences}, volume = {90}, number = {2}, pages = {187-201}, doi = {10.1016/0022-510x(89)90101-9}, pmid = {2723683}, issn = {0022-510X}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Cognition Disorders/*etiology/physiopathology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Multiple Sclerosis/complications/physiopathology/*psychology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Visuospatial problem solving, conceptual reasoning and shifting of set were studied in out-patients with definite and probable MS. The sample of MS patients was homogeneous with respect to 2 important dimensions. All were out-patients, leading a normal although handicap-restricted social life. Furthermore, in all patients relapse or obvious instability of the disease were absent for at least a month. On Raven's Progressive Matrices, the Category test and the Wisconsin Modified Card Sorting test, no significant differences were found between the group of MS patients and a control group of healthy volunteers. However, 18% of MS patients and 4% of controls were rated as performing slightly below the expected levels of cognition. Stepwise regression analysis failed to reveal effects of illness variables, and no difference between patients with definite and probable MS could be detected. Clearly, most socially integrated MS patients in stable disease stages are capable of normal visuospatial problem solving, abstract reasoning and shifting of set.}, }
@article {pmid2716098, year = {1989}, author = {White, DH and Hayes, LE and Bush, PB}, title = {Case histories of wild birds killed intentionally with famphur in Georgia and West Virginia.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {25}, number = {2}, pages = {184-188}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-25.2.184}, pmid = {2716098}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*chemically induced ; Birds ; Brain/enzymology ; Cholinesterases/metabolism ; Digestive System/analysis ; Georgia ; Insecticides/*poisoning ; *Organophosphate Poisoning ; Organothiophosphates/analysis ; Organothiophosphorus Compounds/*poisoning ; West Virginia ; }, abstract = {Five incidences of bird mortality in Georgia and West Virginia (USA) involving migratory waterfowl, cranes, raptors, corvids and songbirds were investigated during the first 6 mo of 1988. Gross and histopathologic examinations revealed no evidence of infectious or other diseases. However, severe depression of cholinesterase activity was evident in brains of birds found dead, suggesting gross exposure to an organophosphorus (OP) or carbamate pesticide. All of the gastrointestinal tract contents chemically analyzed contained famphur, an OP insecticide used as a pour-on treatment against lice and grubs on livestock, ranging from 5 to 1,480 ppm (wet weight). Grain scattered at two of the mortality sites contained 4,240 and 8,500 ppm famphur. Gastrointestinal tracts of most of the dead birds contained mainly corn and some wheat. This is the first report to document the use of famphur as an intentional means of killing wildlife thought to be depredating crops.}, }
@article {pmid2930449, year = {1989}, author = {Glünder, G}, title = {[Characterization of Campylobacter spp. from wild birds].}, journal = {Berliner und Munchener tierarztliche Wochenschrift}, volume = {102}, number = {2}, pages = {49-52}, pmid = {2930449}, issn = {0005-9366}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*microbiology ; Birds ; Campylobacter/*isolation &amp; purification ; Campylobacter Infections/microbiology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {Bacteria of the genus Campylobacter were isolated from 28 Rooks (Corvus frugilegus), 1 Red Kite (Milvus milvus), 1 Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus), 1 Coot (Fulica atra), 1 Common Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus) and 1 Northern Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos). Altogether, C. jejuni biovar 1, was isolated 19x, C. jejuni biovar 2 8x and C. coli 5x. Among C. jejuni biovar 1 and 2 there were 5 isolates tolerating a content of 1.5% NaCl in the medium. H2S proof of 3 C. jejuni biovar 2 and 1 C. coli isolates resulted positive or negative dependent on incubation time of the used bacterial inoculum. Concerning Rooks the findings indicate that nestlings are more often infected with campylobacters than older birds. Only 1 campylobacter isolate could be recovered from altogether 54 birds of prey although 16 Buzzards (Buteo buteo) were investigated as nestlings.}, }
@article {pmid2708643, year = {1989}, author = {Lenzenweger, MF and Dworkin, RH and Wethington, E}, title = {Models of positive and negative symptoms in schizophrenia: an empirical evaluation of latent structures.}, journal = {Journal of abnormal psychology}, volume = {98}, number = {1}, pages = {62-70}, doi = {10.1037//0021-843x.98.1.62}, pmid = {2708643}, issn = {0021-843X}, mesh = {*Diseases in Twins ; Humans ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Schizophrenia/*genetics ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Twins, Monozygotic ; }, abstract = {The present investigation empirically evaluated three competing models of the relations between positive and negative symptoms in schizophrenia, namely the severity-liability model (Gottesman, McGuffin, &amp; Farmer, 1987), Andreasen's unidimensional bipolar model (Andreasen &amp; Olsen, 1982), and Crow's independent dual-process model (Crow, 1980a, 1980b). Using positive and negative symptom ratings based on 220 schizophrenic subjects, the results of a LISREL VI (Joreskog &amp; Sorbom, 1984) confirmatory factor analysis revealed that Crow's model of positive and negative symptoms provided the best fit to the observed data among the three models. The severity-liability model provided a modest fit to observed data, and Andreasen's model fit the data poorly. Results are interpreted as supporting the validity of the positive and negative symptom distinction in schizophrenia and as providing substantive empirical support for Crow's independent dual-process model. The methodological advantages of confirmatory factor analysis in the specification and evaluation of theoretical models in experimental and developmental psychopathology are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid2649157, year = {1989}, author = {Pandurangi, AK and Goldberg, SC and Brink, DD and Hill, MH and Gulati, AN and Hamer, RM}, title = {Amphetamine challenge test, response to treatment, and lateral ventricle size in schizophrenia.}, journal = {Biological psychiatry}, volume = {25}, number = {2}, pages = {207-214}, doi = {10.1016/0006-3223(89)90165-0}, pmid = {2649157}, issn = {0006-3223}, mesh = {Adult ; Cerebral Ventricles/*pathology ; Clinical Trials as Topic ; *Dextroamphetamine ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Random Allocation ; Schizophrenia/*diagnosis/pathology ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; }, abstract = {The hypothesis of two independent pathologies in schizophrenia proposed by Crow (1980) were tested. Two dimensions of the dopamine variable, namely, the behavioral response during the Amphetamine Challenge Test (ACT) and the response to neuroleptic treatment, were studied in a cohort of 19 subjects with a research diagnosis of schizophrenia (n = 18) or schizoaffective disorder (n = 1) in an acute inpatient setting. The size of the lateral ventricle was assessed by mesauring the ventricle-brain ratio (VBR) on the computerized tomographic brain scan. Patients who had greater symptom reduction with the neuroleptic treatment worsened more in their positive psychotic symptoms during the ACT. Those with larger VBRs showed less treatment responsiveness and no worsening during the ACT. The findings are supportive of Crow's hypothesis. The ACT has the potential to be an index of both Type I and Type II pathologies.}, }
@article {pmid2913573, year = {1989}, author = {Ward, TB and Stagner, BH and Scott, JG and Marcus-Mendoza, ST and Turner, D}, title = {Classification behavior and measures of intelligence: dimensional identity versus overall similarity.}, journal = {Perception &amp; psychophysics}, volume = {45}, number = {1}, pages = {71-76}, pmid = {2913573}, issn = {0031-5117}, support = {MH 39369/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; *Attention ; *Discrimination Learning ; *Form Perception ; Humans ; Individuality ; *Orientation ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {Individuals tend to adopt either analytic or holistic modes of categorizing objects. In two studies, we examined the relation between these categorization tendencies and cognitive abilities as measured by standard psychometric instruments. The participants in both studies were pretested with a restricted classification task in which it was possible for them to classify simple stimuli by dimensional identity or overall similarity. Those making a large number of either type of categorization were then tested with subtests of the WAIS-R and with the Raven's progressive matrices. Across both studies, the analytic individuals (many dimensional identity classifications) scored higher than the holistic individuals (many overall similarity classifications) on some but not all of the subtests. The results are consistent with the idea that holistic modes of categorization may be more "primitive" than analytic modes. The findings are discussed in terms of the association between categorization mode and either general or specific cognitive abilities.}, }
@article {pmid2800733, year = {1989}, author = {Hochmeister, M and Dirnhofer, R}, title = {[Formation of a "crow's foot pattern" in the smoke residue in homicide by forehead gunshot injury].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Rechtsmedizin. Journal of legal medicine}, volume = {102}, number = {8}, pages = {545-548}, doi = {10.1007/BF00200653}, pmid = {2800733}, issn = {0044-3433}, mesh = {Brain Injuries/*pathology ; Female ; Forehead/*injuries ; Homicide/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Skin/pathology ; *Smoke ; Suicide/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Wounds, Gunshot/*pathology ; }, abstract = {We report a "crowsfoot-like" pattern in the smoke marks around the entrance of a close-range bullet wound in the center of the forehead; the weapon in this homicide was a revolver. This pattern only occurs if the facial muscles that form expression are completely contracted at the moment the shooting occurs and if the victim expects the event. The wrinkles gather around the entrance of the bullet, and this wound pattern may indicate that the shot was expected by the victim and represent a piece of the mosaic that might help clarify the circumstances in a case.}, }
@article {pmid2741436, year = {1989}, author = {Uzunov, N and Nikoevski, N and Nachev, Ch}, title = {[Crow-Fukase syndrome--the first case report in Bulgaria].}, journal = {Vutreshni bolesti}, volume = {28}, number = {1}, pages = {100-105}, pmid = {2741436}, issn = {0506-2772}, mesh = {Bulgaria ; Edema/diagnosis/*pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Pigmentation Disorders/diagnosis/*pathology ; Polyneuropathies/diagnosis/*pathology ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {A case of a 53 years old woman with Crow-Fukase's syndrome, the first case diagnosed and described in Bulgaria, is presented. The patient presented with polyneuropathy (predominantly locomotor, better expressed in the legs and less expressed in the hands, with hyperproteinorachia), anasarca (peripherial edema, ascites, hydrothorax), skin changes (hyperpigmentations), endocrinopathy (transitory carbohydrate intolerance), dysglobulinemia, organomegaly (hepatomegaly).}, }
@article {pmid2728741, year = {1989}, author = {Makarova, VA and Shekhovtsova, LF}, title = {[Psychometric study of the intellect in patients with hepatocerebral dystrophy].}, journal = {Zhurnal nevropatologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova (Moscow, Russia : 1952)}, volume = {89}, number = {3}, pages = {22-26}, pmid = {2728741}, issn = {0044-4588}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Female ; Hepatic Encephalopathy/*psychology ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Psychomotor Performance/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Psychometric investigation was performed in 35 patients with hepatocerebral dystrophy. The techniques of Vexler, Raven, Kussi were used. Moderately marked signs of reduced intellect were found. The intellectual defect pronounced itself in the impairment of imaginative-active mental component irrespective of educational level. Verbal-logical notional thinking was preserved and matched the educational level. Cu depleting therapy caused regression of the intellectual deficit in a majority of patients. These peculiarities of intellect reduction in hepatocerebral dystrophy patients and the possibility of their therapeutic correction should be taken into account in assessment of labor capability and in recommendations as to future occupation.}, }
@article {pmid2724530, year = {1989}, author = {Mazzuero, G and Zotti, AM and Bertolotti, G and Tavazzi, L}, title = {Hemodynamic response to different types of mental stress in patients with recent myocardial infarction.}, journal = {Japanese heart journal}, volume = {30}, number = {1}, pages = {35-46}, doi = {10.1536/ihj.30.35}, pmid = {2724530}, issn = {0021-4868}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; *Hemodynamics ; Humans ; Male ; Mathematics ; Middle Aged ; Myocardial Infarction/*complications ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Noise ; Stress, Psychological/complications/etiology/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to analyze the cardiovascular effects induced by mental stress evoked by different stressors in patients with recent uncomplicated myocardial infarction. Twenty four males, aged 52 +/- 10 years, were studied 45 +/- 22 days after uncomplicated myocardial infarction in the absence of specific cardiovascular drugs. During electrocardiographic and hemodynamic monitoring with a Swan-Ganz catheter the patients underwent 4 different stressors: mental arithmetic, Sacks test, Raven progressive matrices, white noise. All hemodynamic parameters were significantly (p less than 0.001) modified by 3 of the 4 stressors, while noise significantly affected (p less than 0.005) only blood pressure. Mental arithmetic was more powerful in inducing hemodynamic effects than either the Sacks test or the Raven matrices. Thus, experimentally induced mental stress challenges the recently infarcted patient's cardiovascular system to a quantifiable extent, causing important increments in left ventricular filling pressure. Hemodynamic response is different depending on the stressor employed.}, }
@article {pmid2638547, year = {1989}, author = {Szymczak, JT}, title = {Influence of environmental temperature and photoperiod on temporal structure of sleep in corvids.}, journal = {Acta neurobiologiae experimentalis}, volume = {49}, number = {6}, pages = {359-366}, pmid = {2638547}, issn = {0065-1400}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; *Circadian Rhythm ; *Cold Temperature ; Electroencephalography ; Sleep/*physiology ; Sleep Stages/physiology ; Temperature ; }, abstract = {A survey is presented of the author's own investigations on the effects of ambient temperature and photoperiod on sleep in corvids. Daily sleep patterns of rook, Corvus frugilegus and magpie, Pica pica have been studied electrographically under natural ambient conditions of light and temperature. The daily amount of total sleep time (TST) was positively correlated with night duration, whereas the proportion of TST spent in paradoxical sleep (PS) was strongly reduced in low ambient temperature (Ta). The mean duration of sleep cycle was found to be positively correlated with Ta. The temporal structure of PS in contrast to that of slow wave sleep (SWS) underwent dramatic changes due to cold exposure. In cold PS episodes appeared randomly throughout the night. The systematic trend observed in nocturnal distributions of SWS did not vary significantly when Ta changed from thermoneutral to moderate cold. This study provided indirect support for the view that PS in birds, like in mammals, is associated with inhibition of thermoregulatory responses.}, }
@article {pmid2631124, year = {1989}, author = {Xu, WB and Cai, BQ and Luo, WC and Tong, ZY and Tan, MX and Guo, YP}, title = {Crow-Fukase syndrome--a case report.}, journal = {Proceedings of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and the Peking Union Medical College = Chung-kuo i hsueh k'o hsueh yuan, Chung-kuo hsieh ho i k'o ta hsueh hsueh pao}, volume = {4}, number = {4}, pages = {237-238}, pmid = {2631124}, issn = {0258-8757}, mesh = {Adult ; Edema/diagnosis ; Humans ; Male ; Pigmentation Disorders/*diagnosis ; Polyneuropathies/*diagnosis ; Syndrome ; }, }
@article {pmid2611638, year = {1989}, author = {Sherry, DF and Vaccarino, AL and Buckenham, K and Herz, RS}, title = {The hippocampal complex of food-storing birds.}, journal = {Brain, behavior and evolution}, volume = {34}, number = {5}, pages = {308-317}, doi = {10.1159/000116516}, pmid = {2611638}, issn = {0006-8977}, mesh = {Animals ; Appetitive Behavior/*physiology ; *Biological Evolution ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Brain Mapping ; Feeding Behavior/physiology ; Hippocampus/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Memory/*physiology ; Mental Recall/*physiology ; Organ Size/physiology ; Orientation/*physiology ; Social Environment ; Space Perception/*physiology ; *Species Specificity ; Telencephalon/anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {Three families of North American passerines--chickadees, nuthatches and jays--store food. Previous research has shown that memory for the spatial locations of caches is the principal mechanism of cache recovery. It has also been previously shown that the hippocampal complex (hippocampus and area parahippocampalis) plays an important role in memory for cache sites. The present study determined the volume of the hippocampal complex and the telencephalon in 3 food-storing families and in 10 non-food-storing families and subfamilies of passerines. The hippocampal complex is larger in food-storing birds than in non-food-storing birds. This difference is greater than expected from allometric relations among the hippocampal complex, telencephalon and body weight. Food-storing families are not more closely related to each other than they are to non-food-storing families and subfamilies, and the greater size of the hippocampal complex in food-storing birds is therefore the result of evolutionary convergence. Natural selection has led to a larger hippocampal complex in birds that rely on memory to recover spatially dispersed food caches.}, }
@article {pmid2576485, year = {1989}, author = {Raykov, T}, title = {Reserve capacity of the elderly in aging sensitive tests of fluid intelligence: a reanalysis via a structural equation modelling approach.}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Psychologie mit Zeitschrift fur angewandte Psychologie}, volume = {197}, number = {3}, pages = {263-282}, pmid = {2576485}, issn = {0044-3409}, mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Aging/*psychology ; *Computer Simulation ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Middle Aged ; Psychometrics ; *Software ; }, abstract = {In the last decade there has been a growing interest among developmental psychologists to investigate whether the cognitive performance of older adults can be improved by means of training programs. A number of cognitive training studies involving aging sensitive abilities of fluid intelligence have been performed with healthy older adults (Willis et al. 1981; Baltes et al., 1984/1986). In this paper we reanalyse data from Baltes et al. (1986) concerning the ADEPT Induction, ADEPT Figural Relations, Induction Standard and the Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices Tests. In contrast to the above study, where the data analysis was based on a MANOVA approach, usually carried out when experimental data were gathered, this discussion implements an approach to change measurement for which the structural equation of different aspects of change in means as manifested in the moment matrices. The results here confirm these by Baltes et al. (1986), and suggest conclusions concerning change in means over time in the experimental and control groups, which are not implied by their study.}, }
@article {pmid2564435, year = {1989}, author = {Murray, JB}, title = {Neuroleptic-resistant schizophrenics.}, journal = {The Journal of psychology}, volume = {123}, number = {1}, pages = {69-78}, doi = {10.1080/00223980.1989.10542963}, pmid = {2564435}, issn = {0022-3980}, mesh = {Antipsychotic Agents/*therapeutic use ; Humans ; Schizophrenia/*drug therapy ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; }, abstract = {According to Crow's postulated positive-negative distinction, negative symptoms of schizophrenia are less responsive to neuroleptic drugs. Not all research evidence supports that expectation, however, so that neuroleptics need not be withheld from any schizophrenic patients. Other aspects of Crow's hypothesized distinction have indicated possible promising results, but more research is required.}, }
@article {pmid2488047, year = {1989}, author = {Nasincová, V and Busta, J and Krasnolobova, TA}, title = {Contribution to the developmental cycle and taxonomy of Neoglyphe sobolevi Shaldybin, 1953 (Trematoda: Omphalometridae).}, journal = {Folia parasitologica}, volume = {36}, number = {4}, pages = {313-319}, pmid = {2488047}, issn = {0015-5683}, mesh = {Animals ; Cricetinae ; Culex ; Czechoslovakia ; Eulipotyphla/*parasitology ; Larva ; Mesocricetus ; Mice ; Snails ; Trematoda/anatomy &amp; histology/classification/*growth &amp; development ; Trematode Infections/parasitology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {In Europe, the life cycle of the trematode N. sobolevi was studied for the first time. Following developmental stages are described in detail: daughter sporocysts, cercariae, metacercariae, adults. Snails Galba corvus and Lymnaea stagnalis were found to be the first intermediate hosts in nature. Metacercariae were obtained experimentally from larvae of the mosquitoes Culex pipiens molestus, adults from the intestine of hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) and mice (Mus musculus). This is the first finding of this species in Czechoslovakia. The stability of taxonomically important features and comparison with closely related species is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid2470330, year = {1989}, author = {Trepsat, F}, title = {[The choice of incisions and myoplasties in face lifts].}, journal = {Annales de chirurgie plastique et esthetique}, volume = {34}, number = {1}, pages = {9-14}, pmid = {2470330}, issn = {0294-1260}, mesh = {Facial Muscles/*surgery ; Humans ; Rhytidoplasty/*methods ; }, abstract = {The choice of the site of incision in facial and forehead face lifts is very important, as, apart from minimising the scars, it determines the absence of alteration in the hairline. This is particularly important in occipital and frontal regions but also in the "sideburns". After defining the incision, the surgeon must decide which platysma muscles must be used to correct frontal, horizontal or vertical wrinkles, crows feet or cervical folds. The author presents his experience and technical developments in these two fields.}, }
@article {pmid3248046, year = {1988}, author = {Motsvkin, PA and Varaksin, AA and Niziaeva, EP and Reunova, OV}, title = {[Types of neurons in the central nervous system of the Japanese scallop Mizuhopecten yessoensis (Jay)].}, journal = {Arkhiv anatomii, gistologii i embriologii}, volume = {95}, number = {12}, pages = {14-20}, pmid = {3248046}, issn = {0004-1947}, mesh = {Animals ; Central Nervous System/*anatomy &amp; histology/cytology ; Ganglia/anatomy &amp; histology ; Mollusca/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Neurons/*cytology ; }, abstract = {Composition of neurons, their structure and neuromediatory specialization in the Japanese scallop ganglia have been studied by means of morphological, morphometrical and histochemical methods. Three groups of neurons, differing in their histophysiological characteristics have been defined. Large neurons are cholinergic ones. A well developed system of smooth membranes and large amount of cytosomes are specific for them. Middle size and small neurons of the I type contain a granular endoplasmic reticulum, elementary neurosecretory peptide granules and are considered as peptidergic. Small neurons of the II type possess increased nuclear-plasmic relations, moderately developed endoplasmic reticulum, positively react to biogenic amines and according to their mediatory specialization are monoaminergic.}, }
@article {pmid3209693, year = {1988}, author = {Rushbrook, JI and Weiss, C and Yao, TT and Lin, JM}, title = {Complexity of myosin species in the avian posterior latissimus dorsi muscle.}, journal = {Journal of muscle research and cell motility}, volume = {9}, number = {6}, pages = {552-562}, pmid = {3209693}, issn = {0142-4319}, support = {NS 18438/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Chickens ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Muscles/*analysis/drug effects ; Myosins/*analysis ; Trypsin/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {The myosin content of the avian posterior latissimus dorsi muscle, a small fast-twitch muscle similar in fibre type to the much-studied pectoralis major muscle (type IIB), has been explored using high resolution chromatography of the proteolytic fragment known as subfragment-1 and of the products of its limited tryptic digestion, followed by N-terminal sequencing of selected peptides. The complexity of species found greatly exceeds that anticipated from the fibre-type homogeneity of the muscle and from previous studies (Bandman et al., Cell 29 (1982) 645-50; Lowey et al., J. Musc. Res. Cell Motility 4 (1983) 695-716; Crow &amp; Stockdale Dev. Biol. 118 (1986) 333-42). A minimum of four heavy chain species were identified. One form, approximately 40% of the heavy chain complement, appears to be identical to the well-characterized type IIB isoform of the pectoralis major muscle. The remaining species differ from the pectoralis major form in primary sequence. None is identical to the post-hatch isoform of the pectoralis major muscle.}, }
@article {pmid3058719, year = {1988}, author = {Vivarelli, E and Brown, WE and Whalen, RG and Cossu, G}, title = {The expression of slow myosin during mammalian somitogenesis and limb bud differentiation.}, journal = {The Journal of cell biology}, volume = {107}, number = {6 Pt 1}, pages = {2191-2197}, pmid = {3058719}, issn = {0021-9525}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/immunology ; Blotting, Western ; Cell Differentiation ; Cells, Cultured ; Extremities/*embryology ; Fluorescent Antibody Technique ; Gestational Age ; Mice ; Muscles/*embryology ; Myosins/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The developmental pattern of slow myosin expression has been studied in mouse embryos from the somitic stage to the period of secondary fiber formation and in myogenic cells, cultured from the same developmental stages. The results obtained, using a combination of different polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies, indicate that slow myosin is coexpressed in virtually all the cells that express embryonic (fast) myosin in somites and limb buds in vivo as well as in culture. On the contrary fetal or late myoblasts (from 15-d-old embryos) express in culture only embryonic (fast) myosin. At this stage, muscle cells in vivo, as already shown (Crow, M.T., and F.A. Stockdale. 1986. Dev. Biol. 113:238-254; Dhoot, G.K. 1986. Muscle &amp; Nerve. 9:155-164; Draeger, A., A.G. Weeds, and R.B. Fitzsimons. 1987. J. Neurol. Sci. 81:19-43; Miller, J.B., and F.A. Stockdale. 1986. J. Cell Biol. 103:2197-2208), consist of primary myotubes, which express both myosins, and secondary myotubes, which express preferentially embryonic (fast) myosin. Under no circumstance neonatal or adult fast myosins were detected. Western blot analysis confirmed the immunocytochemical data. These results suggest that embryonic myoblasts in mammals are all committed to the mixed embryonic-(fast) slow lineage and, accordingly, all primary fibers express both myosins, whereas fetal myoblasts mostly belong to the embryonic (fast) lineage and likely generate fibers containing only embryonic (fast) myosin. The relationship with current models of avian myogenesis are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid2854831, year = {1988}, author = {Jitsukawa, K and Hayashi, Y and Sato, S and Anzai, T}, title = {Cutaneous angioma in Crow-Fukase syndrome: the nature of globules within the endothelial cells.}, journal = {The Journal of dermatology}, volume = {15}, number = {6}, pages = {513-522}, doi = {10.1111/j.1346-8138.1988.tb01201.x}, pmid = {2854831}, issn = {0385-2407}, mesh = {Adult ; Endocrine System Diseases/*pathology ; Endothelium/ultrastructure ; Female ; Hemangioma/*ultrastructure ; Humans ; Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/*pathology ; Skin Diseases/*pathology ; Skin Neoplasms/*ultrastructure ; Syndrome ; }, }
@article {pmid3242461, year = {1988}, author = {Varaksina, GS and Varaksin, AA}, title = {[Localization of 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in the gonads of bivalve mollusks--the sea pecten (Patinopecten yessoensis Jay) and Gray's mussel (Crenomytilus grayanus Dunker)].}, journal = {Arkhiv anatomii, gistologii i embriologii}, volume = {95}, number = {11}, pages = {79-82}, pmid = {3242461}, issn = {0004-1947}, mesh = {17-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases/*metabolism ; Animals ; Female ; Gonads/*enzymology/ultrastructure ; Histocytochemistry ; Male ; Microscopy, Electron ; Mollusca/*enzymology/ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {Presence of 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17 beta-HSD) in testes and ovaries of the common mussels--Patinopecten yessoensis (Jay) and Crenomytilus grayanus (Dunker) has been demonstrated histochemically. The enzyme is revealed in some granular amebocytes and germ cells. In growing oocytes its activity is higher that in oocytes completed their growth. 17 beta-HSD is revealed electron microscopically near agranular endoplasmic reticulum, or on the external surface of its membranes and in globules, possessing, evidently, lipid nature. The data obtained demonstrate that synthesis and metabolism of steroid hormones are possible both in additional gonadal elements and in germ cells of the animals investigated.}, }
@article {pmid2464187, year = {1988}, author = {Frizzera, G}, title = {Castleman's disease and related disorders.}, journal = {Seminars in diagnostic pathology}, volume = {5}, number = {4}, pages = {346-364}, pmid = {2464187}, issn = {0740-2570}, mesh = {Blood Vessels/pathology ; Castleman Disease/classification/diagnosis/*pathology ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Humans ; Hyalin/metabolism ; Lymph Nodes/pathology ; Multiple Myeloma/pathology ; Plasma Cells/pathology ; Plasmacytoma/pathology ; }, abstract = {Three disorders that bear the eponym of Castleman's disease (CD) are discussed. The localized CD of hyaline-vascular (HV) type features an architecturally abnormal, hypervascular lymphoid tissue with burned-out germinal centers, and presents as an asymptomatic, slowly growing mass. It may represent a lymphoid hyperplasia associated with excessive angiogenesis. The localized CD of plasma cell (PC) type, instead, features an architecturally recognizable lymph node with solid sheets of PCs and presents with systemic manifestations of inflammation and B cell hyperreactivity. It appears as a localized chronic reaction to unknown antigens. "Multicentric" CD indicates a clinicopathologic entity characterized by the histology of CD of "mixed" type, a predominantly lymphadenopathic presentation consistently involving peripheral nodes, manifestations of multisystem involvement, and an idiopathic nature. It is best considered as a systemic B cell lymphoproliferation, which probably arises in a setting of immunoregulatory deficit, and may result in the outgrowth of clonal B cell populations. An attempt is presented to place the latter two forms of CD in the larger perspective of idiopathic PC disorders, by taking into account both the nature of the diseases (hyperplastic, dysplastic, neoplastic) and the lymphocyte traffic system that is involved (bone marrow-bound, mucosa-associated or peripheral-node-bound). In such a scheme, localized CD, PC type, and multicentric CD appear as a hyperplastic and a dysplastic disorder, respectively, of peripheral-node-bound B cells, related to, and often associated with, primary nodal plasmacytoma and osteosclerotic myeloma (so-called POEMS, Takatsuki's or Crow-Fukase's syndrome).}, }
@article {pmid2460993, year = {1988}, author = {Affabris, E and Federico, M and Romeo, G and Coccia, EM and Rossi, GB}, title = {Opposite effects of murine interferons on erythroid differentiation of Friend cells.}, journal = {Virology}, volume = {167}, number = {1}, pages = {185-193}, doi = {10.1016/0042-6822(88)90068-2}, pmid = {2460993}, issn = {0042-6822}, mesh = {2',5'-Oligoadenylate Synthetase/analysis ; Animals ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/immunology ; Cell Differentiation ; Cell Division ; Erythrocytes/cytology/*physiology ; *Erythropoiesis ; Friend murine leukemia virus ; Interferon Type I/immunology/pharmacology ; Interferon-gamma/immunology/pharmacology ; Interferons/immunology/*pharmacology ; Leukemia, Erythroblastic, Acute/immunology/*pathology ; Mice ; Protein Kinases/analysis ; Tumor Cells, Cultured ; }, abstract = {Interferons (IFNs), in addition to inducing an antiviral state in uninfected cells, are able to affect cell physiology, including cell differentiation. In this respect hematopoiesis is certainly the area in which most data have accumulated. In general IFN-alpha or -beta inhibit cell growth of normal progenitors of hematopoietic lineages. In leukemia cell cultures IFNs may either stimulate or inhibit cell growth and differentiation. We report here different biological effects of murine (mu) IFN-alpha 1, -beta, and -gamma species on the erythroid differentiation of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)-induced Friend leukemia cells. Treatment with mu recombinant IFN-beta enhances DMSO-induced FLC differentiation, whereas treatment with IFN-alpha 1 species as well as with natural and recombinant mu IFN-gamma preparations only inhibits it. All these observed effects are neutralized by monoclonal antibodies against IFN-alpha, -beta, and -gamma species. When mu fibroblast IFN (a mixture of alpha and beta species) was used, the inhibitory effect attributable to IFN-alpha was partly overshadowed by the simultaneous presence of a majority of IFN-beta molecules exerting the opposite effect. This is in agreement with data obtained neutralizing fibroblast IFN preparations with excess amounts of monoclonal antibodies against IFN-beta (G.B. Rossi et al., 1988, "The Status of Differentiation Therapy of Cancer," Raven Press, New York) and with our previous reports indicating that mu fibroblast IFN can either enhance or inhibit DMSO-induced differentiation when administered at low (less than 500 U/ml) or high (greater than 5000 U/ml) doses, respectively. The inhibitory effect of IFN-alpha 1 on cell differentiation is not linked to any inhibitory effect on cell growth. Results obtained analyzing the effect of IFN-alpha 1 and -beta on various IFN-resistant FLC clones indicate that different mechanisms underlie the stimulatory effect of IFN-beta and the inhibitory effect of IFN-alpha 1. These results shed light on possibly distinct physiological roles of the various species of IFNs.}, }
@article {pmid2460389, year = {1988}, author = {Bandman, E and Bennett, T}, title = {Diversity of fast myosin heavy chain expression during development of gastrocnemius, bicep brachii, and posterior latissimus dorsi muscles in normal and dystrophic chickens.}, journal = {Developmental biology}, volume = {130}, number = {1}, pages = {220-231}, doi = {10.1016/0012-1606(88)90428-9}, pmid = {2460389}, issn = {0012-1606}, support = {AR31731/AR/NIAMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/immunology ; Blotting, Western ; Cell Differentiation ; Chick Embryo ; Chickens ; Epitopes ; Immunoenzyme Techniques ; Muscular Dystrophy, Animal/*metabolism ; Myosins/*metabolism ; Peptide Mapping ; }, abstract = {The expression of fast myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoforms was examined in developing bicep brachii, lateral gastrocnemius, and posterior latissimus dorsi (PLD) muscles of inbred normal White Leghorn chickens (Line 03) and genetically related inbred dystrophic White Leghorn chickens (Line 433). Utilizing a highly characterized monoclonal antibody library we employed ELISA, Western blot, immunocytochemical, and MHC epitope mapping techniques to determine which MHCs were present in the fibers of these muscles at different stages of development. The developmental pattern of MHC expression in the normal bicep brachii was uniform with all fibers initially accumulating embryonic MHC similar to that of the pectoralis muscle. At hatching the neonatal isoform was expressed in all fibers; however, unlike in the pectoralis muscle the embryonic MHC isoform did not disappear. With increasing age the neonatal MHC was repressed leaving the embryonic MHC as the only detectable isoform present in the adult bicep brachii muscle. While initially expressing embryonic MHC in ovo, the post-hatch normal gastrocnemius expressed both embryonic and neonatal MHCs. However, unlike the bicep brachii muscle, this pattern of expression continued in the adult muscle. The adult normal gastrocnemius stained heterogeneously with anti-embryonic and anti-neonatal antibodies indicating that mature fibers could contain either isoform or both. Neither the bicep brachii muscle nor the lateral gastrocnemius muscle reacted with the adult specific antibody at any stage of development. In the developing posterior latissimus dorsi muscle (PLD), embryonic, neonatal, and adult isoforms sequentially appeared; however, expression of the embryonic isoform continued throughout development. In the adult PLD, both embryonic and adult MHCs were expressed, with most fibers expressing both isoforms. In dystrophic neonates and adults virtually all fibers of the bicep brachii, gastrocnemius, and PLD muscles were identical and contained embryonic and neonatal MHCs. These results corroborate previous observations that there are alternative programs of fast MHC expression to that found in the pectoralis muscle of the chicken (M.T. Crow and F.E. Stockdale, 1986, Dev. Biol. 118, 333-342), and that diversification into fibers containing specific MHCs fails to occur in the fast muscle fibers of the dystrophic chicken. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that avian muscular dystrophy is a developmental disorder that is associated with alterations in isoform switching during muscle maturation.}, }
@article {pmid3217184, year = {1988}, author = {Esquivel, GB and Lopez, E}, title = {Correlations among measures of cognitive ability, creativity, and academic achievement for gifted minority children.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {67}, number = {2}, pages = {395-398}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1988.67.2.395}, pmid = {3217184}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {*Achievement ; Adolescent ; Child ; Child, Gifted/*psychology ; *Creativity ; Female ; Hispanic or Latino/*psychology ; Humans ; Male ; Reading ; United States ; }, abstract = {This study explored the correlations among nonverbal reasoning ability, creativity, and academic achievement in gifted minority children, 89 girls and 71 boys in Grades 1 through 8 in a program for gifted. A random half of students from all grade levels were tested at the beginning of the year and the remaining half after 7 mo. with Raven Progressive Matrices, Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking, and the California Achievement Test. Pearson correlations reflected limited relations among these variables except for a significant positive value between creativity and reading achievement. Suggestions for further study and implications for identification procedures and program development were provided.}, }
@article {pmid3067353, year = {1988}, author = {Rix, KJ}, title = {Alexander Wood (1725-1807): deacon of the incorporation of surgeons, surgeon-in-ordinary, Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, and 'doctor of mirth'.}, journal = {Scottish medical journal}, volume = {33}, number = {5}, pages = {346-348}, doi = {10.1177/003693308803300518}, pmid = {3067353}, issn = {0036-9330}, mesh = {General Surgery/history ; History, 18th Century ; History, 19th Century ; Scotland ; }, abstract = {This account of the Edinburgh surgeon, Alexander Wood (1725-1807), brings together information from a number of sources including the diaries of his friend and patient, James Boswell, and anecdotes recorded by James Paterson who wrote the biographical notes for Kay's Portraits. Wood was a fashionable eccentric who took a sheep and raven on his home visits and he was as popular with the poor and working classes as he was with more well-to-do patients. He was a Deacon of the Incorporation of Surgeons and one of the first Surgeons-in-Ordinary at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. His clinical skills were admired by patients and colleagues alike and he did much to enrich the life of the Edinburgh medical fraternity.}, }
@article {pmid3400062, year = {1988}, author = {Bartle, EJ and Sun, JH and Thompson, L and Light, AI and McCool, C and Heaton, S}, title = {The effects of acute sleep deprivation during residency training.}, journal = {Surgery}, volume = {104}, number = {2}, pages = {311-316}, pmid = {3400062}, issn = {0039-6060}, mesh = {Adult ; Fatigue/psychology ; Female ; General Surgery/*education ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; *Internship and Residency ; Male ; *Mental Processes ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Rest ; *Sleep Deprivation ; Stress, Physiological/psychology ; }, abstract = {Verbal and symbol concentration, learning, problem solving, clear thinking, manual skills, and memory were tested in 42 surgical residents to assess the effects of acute sleep deprivation on specific neuropsychological parameters. A series of eight neuropsychological tests--digit symbols, digit vigilance, story memory, trail making, PASAT, Raven matrices, delayed story, and pegboard--and a questionnaire on mood states were completed by the residents both when fatigued (less than 4 hours of sleep: mean, 2.0 +/- 1.5 hours) and when rested (more than 4 hours of sleep: mean, 6.5 +/- 1.0 hours), with at least 7 days between tests. In order to eliminate the effects of learning from the first test series, randomization of residents was performed so that one half were first evaluated when rested and one half when fatigued. ANOVA, multiple regression analysis, and the Student t test were used to assess differences. In the acute sleep-deprived state, residents were less vigorous and more fatigued, depressed, tense, confused, and angry (p less than 0.05) than they were in rested state. Despite these changes in mood, however, the responses on all of the functional tests were no different statistically in those who were rested and those who were fatigued (even in those with less than 2 hours' sleep). We conclude that acute sleep deprivation of less than 4 hours alters mood state but does not change performance in test situations in which concentration, clear thinking, and problem solving are important.}, }
@article {pmid3240625, year = {1988}, author = {Tomi, H and Mukoyama, M and Kamei, N and Sunohara, N and Satoyoshi, E}, title = {[An autopsy case of Crow-Fukase syndrome with massive appearance of amyloid bodies in the central nervous systems].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {28}, number = {8}, pages = {887-890}, pmid = {3240625}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Amyloid/*metabolism ; Central Nervous System/metabolism/*pathology ; Edema/pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Paraproteinemias/metabolism/pathology ; Pigmentation Disorders/metabolism/*pathology ; Polyneuropathies/metabolism/*pathology ; Syndrome ; }, }
@article {pmid3190595, year = {1988}, author = {Mason, RW and Fain, A}, title = {Knemidocoptes intermedius identified in forest ravens (Corvus tasmanicus).}, journal = {Australian veterinary journal}, volume = {65}, number = {8}, pages = {260}, doi = {10.1111/j.1751-0813.1988.tb14316.x}, pmid = {3190595}, issn = {0005-0423}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology/pathology ; Birds/parasitology ; Mite Infestations/parasitology/pathology/*veterinary ; Mites/*classification ; Tasmania ; }, }
@article {pmid3169393, year = {1988}, author = {Smith, IM and Bryson, SE}, title = {Monozygotic twins concordant for autism and hyperlexia.}, journal = {Developmental medicine and child neurology}, volume = {30}, number = {4}, pages = {527-531}, doi = {10.1111/j.1469-8749.1988.tb04780.x}, pmid = {3169393}, issn = {0012-1622}, mesh = {Autistic Disorder/genetics/psychology ; Child ; Child Development ; *Diseases in Twins ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/genetics ; Male ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Reflex, Abnormal/*genetics/psychology ; Twins, Monozygotic ; }, abstract = {The authors describe male monozygotic twins, Jon and Jay, who are concordant for autism and hyperlexia. Autism and mental retardation were diagnosed at the age of 2 years 5 months. Jay was the more advanced twin in motor co-ordination, attention span and receptive abilities, but had frequent tantrums. When psychologically assessed at 7 years 2 months, Jon showed borderline/severe mental retardation on the measure of non-verbal intelligence and Jay was moderately retarded. Their receptive language age was greater than their expressive language age: Jon's speech was less mature but more communicative and Jay's was perseverative and ritualistic. Even though Jon was the more mentally retarded twin, Jay was the more autistic in some behavioral aspects. These twins highlight the relationship between autism and hyperlexia.}, }
@article {pmid3226144, year = {1988}, author = {Chao, L}, title = {Evolution of sex in RNA viruses.}, journal = {Journal of theoretical biology}, volume = {133}, number = {1}, pages = {99-112}, doi = {10.1016/s0022-5193(88)80027-4}, pmid = {3226144}, issn = {0022-5193}, mesh = {Models, Genetic ; Mutation ; RNA Viruses/*genetics ; Selection, Genetic ; *Sex ; }, abstract = {The distribution of deleterious mutations in a population of organisms is determined by the opposing effects of two forces, mutation pressure and selection. If mutation rates are high, the resulting mutation-selection balance can generate a substantial mutational load in the population. Sex can be advantageous to organisms experiencing high mutation rates because it can either buffer the mutation-selection balance from genetic drift, thus preventing any increases in the mutational load (Muller, 1964: Mut. Res. 1, 2), or decrease the mutational load by increasing the efficiency of selection (Crow, 1970: Biomathematics 1, 128). Muller's hypothesis assumes that deleterious mutations act independently, whereas Crow's hypothesis assumes that deleterious mutations interact synergistically, i.e., the acquisition of a deleterious mutation is proportionately more harmful to a genome with many mutations than it is to a genome with a few mutations. RNA viruses provide a test for these two hypotheses because they have extremely high mutation rates and appear to have evolved specific adaptations to reproduce sexually. Population genetic models for RNA viruses show that Muller's and Crow's hypotheses are also possible explanations for why sex is advantageous to these viruses. A re-analysis of published data on RNA viruses that are cultured by undiluted passage suggests that deleterious mutations in such viruses interact synergistically and that sex evolved there as a mechanism to reduce the mutational load.}, }
@article {pmid3411703, year = {1988}, author = {Ito, K and Kubokura, Y and Kaneko, K and Totake, Y and Ogawa, M}, title = {Occurrence of Campylobacter jejuni in free-living wild birds from Japan.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {24}, number = {3}, pages = {467-470}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-24.3.467}, pmid = {3411703}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/*microbiology ; Birds/*microbiology ; Campylobacter fetus/*isolation &amp; purification ; Diet ; Japan ; }, abstract = {Campylobacter jejuni was isolated from 44 of 313 free-living birds from Japan. The highest isolation rate was found in 30 of 87 (34%) crows (Corvus levaillanti and Corvus corone), followed by 2 of 10 (20%) blue magpies (Cyanopica cyanus), 5 of 35 (14%) gray starlings (Sturnus cineraceus), 2 of 16 (13%) domestic pigeons (Columbia livia domestica), 4 of 36 (11%) bulbuls (Hypsipetes amaurotis), and 1 of 62 (2%) eastern turtledoves (Streptopelia orientalis). One-fourth of the contents of the crop and stomach of the crows was human refuse. One-third of the crop and stomach contents of gray starlings and blue magpies consisted of insects. More than one-half of the contents of bulbuls and eastern turtledoves were seeds and plant material. These differences in food habits may be a primary factor in the varying prevalence of C. jejuni in these respective avian species.}, }
@article {pmid3382321, year = {1988}, author = {Berman, KF and Illowsky, BP and Weinberger, DR}, title = {Physiological dysfunction of dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in schizophrenia. IV. Further evidence for regional and behavioral specificity.}, journal = {Archives of general psychiatry}, volume = {45}, number = {7}, pages = {616-622}, doi = {10.1001/archpsyc.1988.01800310020002}, pmid = {3382321}, issn = {0003-990X}, mesh = {Adult ; Cerebral Cortex/metabolism/physiopathology ; Cerebrovascular Circulation ; Chronic Disease ; Cognition/physiology ; Dopamine/metabolism/physiology ; Female ; Frontal Lobe/blood supply/metabolism/*physiopathology ; Humans ; Male ; Problem Solving/physiology ; Psychological Tests ; Schizophrenia/metabolism/*physiopathology ; Xenon Radioisotopes ; }, abstract = {In previous studies we found that patients with chronic schizophrenia had lower regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) than did normal subjects during performance of the Wisconsin Card Sort Test, an abstract reasoning task linked to DLPFC function. This was not the case during less complex tasks. To examine further whether this finding represented regionally circumscribed pathophysiology or a more general correlate of abstract cognition, 24 medication-free patients and 25 age- and sex-matched normal control subjects underwent rCBF measurements with the xenon 133 technique while they performed two tasks: Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM) and an active baseline control task. While performing RPM, normal subjects activated posterior cortical areas over baseline, but did not activate DLPFC, as had been seen during the Wisconsin Card Sort Test. Like normal subjects, patients showed maximal rCBF elevations posteriorly and, moreover, they had no significant DLPFC or other cortical deficit while performing RPM. These results suggest that DLPFC dysfunction in schizophrenia is linked to pathophysiology of a regionally specific neural system rather than to global cortical dysfunction, and that this pathophysiology is most apparent under prefrontally specific cognitive demand.}, }
@article {pmid3241139, year = {1988}, author = {Witoonpanich, R and Jootar, S and Vejjajiva, A and Chuahirun, S and Nitiyanant, P}, title = {The POEMS (Crow-Fukase) syndrome: a case report.}, journal = {Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand = Chotmaihet thangphaet}, volume = {71}, number = {7}, pages = {406-412}, pmid = {3241139}, issn = {0125-2208}, mesh = {*Dysgammaglobulinemia ; *Endocrine System Diseases ; Hepatomegaly ; Humans ; Immunoglobulin M/*deficiency ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Nervous System Diseases ; *Skin Diseases ; Splenomegaly ; Syndrome ; }, }
@article {pmid3170759, year = {1988}, author = {Halligan, FR and Reznikoff, M and Friedman, HP and La Rocca, NG}, title = {Cognitive dysfunction and change in multiple sclerosis.}, journal = {Journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {44}, number = {4}, pages = {540-548}, doi = {10.1002/1097-4679(198807)44:4&lt;540::aid-jclp2270440410&gt;3.0.co;2-9}, pmid = {3170759}, issn = {0021-9762}, mesh = {Adult ; *Cognition ; Dementia/etiology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Multiple Sclerosis/complications/*psychology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {A cross-sectional study of 60 multiple sclerosis outpatients assessed neuropsychological variables in relation to age, duration of disease, and degree of disability. The test battery included subtests of the WAIS (Vocabulary, Similarities, and Digit Span);the Raven matrices; and memory tests (Wechsler Paired Associates, Benton Visual Retention). Results showed that cognitive functioning of MS patients varies considerably. There is a general mild decline that affects abstract reasoning and memory as the disease progresses. These deficits are usually not sufficient to impair occupational or social functioning. In addition, there is spotty deterioration in certain cognitive functions for some patients (17%). Only a small subsample (6.7%), however, showed global deterioration significant enough to be highlighted by an Index of Dementia that was developed for this investigation.}, }
@article {pmid3045679, year = {1988}, author = {}, title = {The University of Nebraska Hospital at Omaha. By J. Jay Keegan, 1927.}, journal = {The Nebraska medical journal}, volume = {73}, number = {7}, pages = {215-220}, pmid = {3045679}, issn = {0091-6730}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; Hospitals, Teaching/*history ; Hospitals, University/*history ; Nebraska ; }, }
@article {pmid3396232, year = {1988}, author = {Rovelli, E and Luciani, L and Pagani, C and Albonico, C and Colleoni, N and D'Amico, G}, title = {Correlation between serum aluminum concentration and signs of encephalopathy in a large population of patients dialyzed with aluminum-free fluids.}, journal = {Clinical nephrology}, volume = {29}, number = {6}, pages = {294-298}, pmid = {3396232}, issn = {0301-0430}, mesh = {Aluminum/adverse effects/*blood ; Brain Diseases/*chemically induced/diagnosis ; Deferoxamine ; Electroencephalography ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neurologic Examination ; Peritoneal Dialysis, Continuous Ambulatory/adverse effects ; Psychological Tests ; Renal Dialysis/*adverse effects ; Risk Factors ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {The role of persistently high serum aluminum levels (sAl) in the pathogenesis of dialysis encephalopathy (DE) was evaluated in two groups selected from 170 patients dialyzed with low Al fluids. Group 1 (G1) consisted of 24 patients showing two or more sAl below 50 micrograms/l and group 2 (G2) consisted of 27 patients with sAl above 100 micrograms/l in at least 2 of 3 determinations. The two groups did not show any significant difference for age, sex, education or duration of the dialysis treatment. All G1 patients were treated by hemodialysis. In G2, 24 patients underwent hemodialysis and 3 were on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). We evaluated body loads of Al in 25 of 27 G2 patients with the desferrioxamine (DFO) infusion test. All 51 patients underwent a neurological examination and a waking EEG. Intelligence was assessed by Raven's Progressive Matrices 47 test in 19 of the G1 patients and in 20 of the G2 patients; short-term memory was measured by digit span and by word span and long-term memory by a short story in 10 G1 patients and 17 G2 patients. We diagnosed DE only in the presence of the typical EEG changes, with or without manifest clinical symptoms. DE was diagnosed in none of the G1 patients and in 8 of the G2 patients (0 vs 29.6%, chi 2 = 6.34; p less than 0.025). Five of the patients with DE showed both clinical and EEG signs, while the remaining three showed only EEG signs.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid3045191, year = {1988}, author = {Righetti, PG}, title = {Isoelectric focusing as the crow flies.}, journal = {Journal of biochemical and biophysical methods}, volume = {16}, number = {2-3}, pages = {99-108}, doi = {10.1016/0165-022x(88)90023-1}, pmid = {3045191}, issn = {0165-022X}, mesh = {Isoelectric Focusing/*methods ; }, abstract = {The evolution of isoelectric focusing is traced back over the years, from a somewhat shaky origin to present-day immobilized pH gradients. Four generations of methodology are classified and discussed: (A) Kolin's approach, consisting of a two-step technique, generation of a pH gradient by diffusion followed by a rapid electrokinetic protein separation; (B) Svensson-Rilbe's approach, consisting of creating a pH gradient in an electric field by utilizing as buffers a multitude of carrier ampholytes, i.e. of amphoteric species possessing good buffering capacity and conductivity at their pI; (C) immobilized pH gradients, by which non-amphoteric buffers and titrants (acrylamido weak acids and bases), titrated around their pK values, are grafted (insolubilized) onto a polyacrylamide gel matrix and (D) mixed-bed carrier ampholyte-Immobiline gel, by which a soluble, carrier ampholyte generated pH gradient coexists in the same matrix with an insoluble, Immobiline generated, pH gradient.}, }
@article {pmid3043002, year = {1988}, author = {Gurling, HM}, title = {Testing the retrovirus hypothesis of manic depression and schizophrenia with molecular genetic techniques.}, journal = {Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine}, volume = {81}, number = {6}, pages = {332-334}, pmid = {3043002}, issn = {0141-0768}, support = {//Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; }, mesh = {Bipolar Disorder/*genetics ; DNA, Viral/*genetics ; Genetic Techniques ; Humans ; Polymorphism, Genetic ; Retroviridae/*genetics ; Schizophrenia/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Crow's viral hypothesis of schizophrenia proposes that psychosis may be the result of mutagenesis caused by viral integration or transposition in human genomic DNA. Molecular genetic techniques can be used to systematically investigate this hypothesis. In a study of genomic lymphocyte DNA unexpected DNA polymorphisms which were probably insertions and deletions were found in specific human genomic retroviral (proviral) related sequences. However these changes were found exclusively in normal Icelandic individuals and are probably of evolutionary origin. The extent to which human retroviral insertion and deletion has taken place and the mobility of such sequences will help in understanding their evolutionary origin and might provide a source of polymorphic marker sequences that could be used in genetic linkage studies of disease.}, }
@article {pmid2969321, year = {1988}, author = {Jaffe, B and Harlap, S and Baras, M and Gordon, L and Lieblich, A and Magidor, S and Sanchez, M}, title = {Long-term effects of MPA on human progeny: intellectual development.}, journal = {Contraception}, volume = {37}, number = {6}, pages = {607-619}, doi = {10.1016/0010-7824(88)90007-8}, pmid = {2969321}, issn = {0010-7824}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Contraceptive Agents, Female/*adverse effects ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence/*drug effects ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Medroxyprogesterone/adverse effects/*analogs &amp; derivatives ; Medroxyprogesterone Acetate ; Pregnancy ; *Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects ; }, abstract = {Tests of verbal and spatial ability were done on 450 boys and 537 girls in their late teens of whom 73 and 97, respectively, had been exposed in utero to MPA. Exposed boys achieved higher raw scores than controls on verbal and spatial tests but the differences were explained by their more favorable demographic and social characteristics. Exposed girls did not differ from controls. Although, mothers of exposed boys reported that their offspring talked and walked later than controls, our results support the hypothesis that intrauterine exposure to MPA at contraceptive doses has no long-term effect on intellectual development.}, }
@article {pmid3373143, year = {1988}, author = {Bailey, JR and Driedzic, WR}, title = {Perfusion-independent oxygen extraction in myoglobin-rich hearts.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {135}, number = {}, pages = {301-315}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.135.1.301}, pmid = {3373143}, issn = {0022-0949}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*metabolism ; Heart/drug effects ; Hydroxylamine ; Hydroxylamines/pharmacology ; In Vitro Techniques ; Myocardium/*metabolism ; Myoglobin/*metabolism ; *Oxygen Consumption ; Perfusion ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Cardiac myoglobin plays a role in oxygen consumption and has a protective effect during periods of hypoxia, but little is known about the role of myoglobin during periods of ischaemia. Myoglobin-rich sea raven hearts and myoglobin-poor ocean pout hearts were isolated and perfused at varying flow rates and under conditions of low and high oxygen demand to assess the role of myoglobin in oxygen extraction. In the myoglobin-rich hearts, oxygen extraction remained constant over the flow range. In the myoglobin-poor hearts, oxygen extraction was significantly elevated, relative to controls, at the lower flow rates but decreased as the flow rate increased. In hearts where myoglobin was inactivated by an oxidizing agent, oxygen extraction was similar to that observed in myoglobin-poor hearts. Under conditions of high oxygen demand, myoglobin-rich hearts again showed a constant oxygen extraction over the flow range. Myoglobin-inactivated hearts had a significantly elevated oxygen extraction at low flows, and this decreased as flow rate increased. These data suggest that myoglobin renders oxygen extraction by fish hearts independent of the rate of perfusion.}, }
@article {pmid3344920, year = {1988}, author = {Deitel, M and Khanna, RK and Hagen, J and Ilves, R}, title = {Vertical banded gastroplasty as an antireflux procedure.}, journal = {American journal of surgery}, volume = {155}, number = {3}, pages = {512-516}, doi = {10.1016/s0002-9610(88)80125-9}, pmid = {3344920}, issn = {0002-9610}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Gastroesophageal Reflux/physiopathology/*prevention &amp; control ; Humans ; Male ; Manometry ; Middle Aged ; Obesity, Morbid/physiopathology/therapy ; Stomach/*surgery ; }, abstract = {Vertical banded gastroplasty creates a channel by two applications of the TA-90 stapler from an end-to-end anastomosis window above the crow's foot to the angle of His, against a 32 F. tube along the lesser curvature. The caudad end of the channel is restricted by a 5 cm collar. Thirty-one obese patients more than 45 kg overweight were studied by interview, barium swallow, endoscopy, and manometry. These procedures were repeated 13 +/- 5.5 weeks postoperatively, after resolution of operative edema and before extensive weight loss. Preoperative symptoms included heartburn in 24 patients, regurgitation in 17 patients, and aspiration in 2 patients, and barium swallow demonstrated hiatal hernia in 7 patients and reflux in 7 patients (5 with hiatal hernia). In addition, endoscopy detected mild esophagitis in 3 patients, and hiatal hernia in 11 patients. Postoperatively, the incidence of heartburn decreased in all patients, barium swallow showed slow channel emptying but no hiatal hernia or reflux, and endoscopy did not identify any esophagitis. Preoperative lower esophageal sphincter pressure was 14.5 +/- 7.2 mm Hg. Postoperatively, the vertical banded gastroplasty channel had an initial peak (collar) pressure of 19.2 +/- 7.8 mm Hg (p less than 0.01 compared with preoperative lower esophageal sphincter pressure), a channel pressure of 9.5 +/- 6 mm Hg, a lower esophageal sphincter pressure of 20.1 +/- 7.7 mm Hg (p less than 0.005), and a channel length of 6.8 +/- 1.4 cm. Vertical banded gastroplasty creates a high pressure channel, inhibiting reflux of gastric juice without the need for any additional procedure.}, }
@article {pmid3286556, year = {1988}, author = {Berker, E and Smith, A}, title = {Diaschisis, site, time and other factors in raven performances of adults with focal cerebral lesions.}, journal = {The International journal of neuroscience}, volume = {38}, number = {3-4}, pages = {267-285}, doi = {10.3109/00207458808990689}, pmid = {3286556}, issn = {0020-7454}, support = {1-R01-NS24344-01/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Brain/*physiopathology ; Brain Diseases/*physiopathology ; Brain Neoplasms/*physiopathology ; *Cognition ; Humans ; Orientation ; Psychological Tests ; Time ; }, abstract = {Analyses of Raven matrices performances by 35 patients with acute and 22 with chronic focal lesions restricted to the anterior or posterior regions of the left or right hemispheres illustrate the importance of controlling for diaschisis, specific site, time, age and other factors determining neuropsychological performances. These findings have important practical and theoretical implications with respect to the elucidation of principles underlying organization, disorganization and reorganization of human brain functions. They also suggest that many of the previous controversial and conflicting reports may be reconciled when these and other significant underlying factors are accounted for. Finally, they confirm Jackson's earlier observations of the critical role of the right posterior lobe in "visuopsychic" non verbal mental processes.}, }
@article {pmid3078871, year = {1988}, author = {Kimura, M}, title = {Thirty years of population genetics with Dr. Crow.}, journal = {Idengaku zasshi}, volume = {63}, number = {1}, pages = {1-10}, doi = {10.1266/jjg.63.1}, pmid = {3078871}, issn = {0021-504X}, mesh = {Genetics, Population/*history ; History, 20th Century ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid2966092, year = {1988}, author = {Bol'shakova, LP and Revazov, AA}, title = {[Heritability of fertility in human populations and the structure of Crow's index].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {24}, number = {2}, pages = {340-349}, pmid = {2966092}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Asia, Central ; Ethnicity ; Female ; *Fertility ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Infertility, Female/genetics ; Postpartum Period ; Pregnancy ; Rural Population ; Russia ; *Selection, Genetic ; Urban Population ; }, abstract = {Heritability of fertility was determined in populations with natural character of reproduction (Middle Asia Republics) and in populations with family planning (Middle Russia). The material was collected by interviewing the married women of postreproductive age. The heritability of fertility was estimated as a doubled coefficient of correlations between sisters for effective fertility. In populations with natural character of reproduction the heritability was about 50% and it did not differ from O in the populations with family planning. The values of heritability were used in the components of the Crow index analysis. The main contribution into broad-sense heritability of fertility comes from additive component, as shown in an Asia population (Turkmen). The values of heritability of fecundability (86%) and of postpartum sterility (66%) have been calculated for the same population.}, }
@article {pmid3376631, year = {1988}, author = {Kruglova, EE}, title = {[Ratio and composition of the plasmalogen and diacylated forms of phospholipids in subcellular fractions of the avian brain].}, journal = {Zhurnal evoliutsionnoi biokhimii i fiziologii}, volume = {24}, number = {1}, pages = {21-27}, pmid = {3376631}, issn = {0044-4529}, mesh = {Aldehydes/analysis ; Animals ; Birds/*metabolism ; *Brain Chemistry ; Chromatography, Gas ; Columbidae ; Fatty Acids/analysis ; Phosphatidic Acids/*analysis/isolation &amp; purification ; Phospholipids/*analysis/isolation &amp; purification ; Plasmalogens/*analysis/isolation &amp; purification ; Subcellular Fractions/analysis ; }, abstract = {Studies have been made on the specific content of plasmalogen and diacylated forms of phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylcholine in subcellular fractions (myelin, nuclei, microsomes, mitochondria, synaptosomes) from the brain of pigeons, as well as in the myelin fraction from the brain of the crow Corvus cornix and the hawk Accipiter gentelis. Fatty acid composition and fatty aldehyde composition of these two main phospholipids of the brain were studied in the subcellular fractions obtained. It was shown that plasmalogen forms of phospholipids are localized in birds mainly in the myelin fraction which exhibits the highest plasmalogen concentration as compared to the same fraction of all the vertebrates investigated. With respect to fatty acid and fatty aldehyde composition, as well as to the degree of their unsaturation, myelin plasmalogens from birds are similar to those from other cold-blooded and warm-blooded animals. This fact indicates that high relative content of plasmalogens together with their high unsaturation account for normal functional activity of myelin membranes in all vertebrates.}, }
@article {pmid3280839, year = {1988}, author = {Mörner, T and Mattsson, R}, title = {Experimental infection of five species of raptors and of hooded crows with Francisella tularensis biovar palaearctica.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {24}, number = {1}, pages = {15-21}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-24.1.15}, pmid = {3280839}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Agglutination Tests ; Animals ; Antibodies, Bacterial/analysis ; Bird Diseases/*immunology/pathology ; Birds ; Disease Susceptibility ; Fluorescent Antibody Technique ; Francisella tularensis/immunology ; Immunity, Innate ; Tularemia/immunology/pathology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {Sixteen raptors and three hooded crows were infected experimentally with Francisella tularensis biovar palaearctica. The birds were infected parenterally or per os. One goshawk, one sparrow hawk and one hooded crow died during the experimental period, and the remaining 16 birds were killed 14-77 days after the first infection. Francisella tularensis was not isolated from any bird. Antibody levels against F. tularensis measured in nine birds varied from 0 to 1:1,280. In one goshawk with a titer of 1:1,280, positive fluorescent antibody reactions against F. tularensis were seen in the liver and spleen. These results are similar to those found by other authors indicating that raptors and corvids are normally resistant to infections with F. tularensis.}, }
@article {pmid3249022, year = {1988}, author = {Mahata, SK and Mandal, A and Ghosh, A}, title = {Influence of age and splanchnic nerve on the action of melatonin in the adrenomedullary catecholamine content and blood glucose level in the avian group.}, journal = {Journal of comparative physiology. B, Biochemical, systemic, and environmental physiology}, volume = {158}, number = {5}, pages = {601-607}, pmid = {3249022}, issn = {0174-1578}, mesh = {Adrenal Medulla/*analysis/metabolism ; Aging/*physiology ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Blood Glucose/*analysis/metabolism ; Catecholamines/*analysis/metabolism ; Columbidae ; Female ; Homeostasis/drug effects ; Male ; Melatonin/*pharmacology ; Microscopy, Fluorescence ; Parakeets ; Spectrometry, Fluorescence ; Splanchnic Nerves/*physiology ; }, abstract = {A single intraperitoneal (IP) melatonin injection (0.5 mg/100 g body wt.) caused an increase in norepinephrine (NE) fluorescence and elevation of NE content in newly-hatched pigeons (Columba livia), but a reduction of NE fluorescence and depletion of NE content in the adrenal medulla of newly-hatched crows (Corvus splendens) after 0.5 h of treatment. In contrast, in adults melatonin caused increase in NE fluorescence and elevation of NE content only in the parakeet (Psittacula krameri). Half an hour of IP melatonin treatment (0.5 mg/100 g body wt.) induced release of epinephrine (E) from the adrenal medulla of newly-hatched pigeon and parakeet. In contrast, in the adults melatonin caused more than a two-fold increase in E in the pigeon, and a significant increase in the crow. Single IP melatonin injection (0.5 mg/100 g body wt.) caused hypoglycemia in the newly-hatched parakeet and adult pigeon, and hyperglycemia in newly-hatched pigeon after 0.5 h of treatment. Melatonin failed to regulate glucose homoeostasis in newly-hatched and adult crow. Splanchnic denervation of the left adrenal gland was performed in the adult pigeon. The right adrenal served as the innervated gland. Melatonin-induced modulation of catecholamines following a single IP injection (0.5 mg/100 g body wt.) revealed significant increases in NE fluorescence and NE content at 4 and 12 h after treatment in the denervated gland only, which gradually approached normal levels 9 days after treatment.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid3205049, year = {1988}, author = {Burt, RA}, title = {Uncertainty and medical authority in the world of Jay Katz.}, journal = {Law, medicine &amp; health care : a publication of the American Society of Law &amp; Medicine}, volume = {16}, number = {3-4}, pages = {190-196}, doi = {10.1111/j.1748-720x.1988.tb01945.x}, pmid = {3205049}, issn = {0277-8459}, mesh = {*Authoritarianism ; Cesarean Section ; Child Advocacy/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Female ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; Informed Consent/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Judicial Role ; Patient Advocacy/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Personal Autonomy ; *Physician-Patient Relations ; Pregnancy ; Pregnant People ; Truth Disclosure ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid3203139, year = {1988}, author = {Yoshioka, K and Hayakawa, A and Furuta, T and Ishikawa, N and Shigei, T}, title = {Distinctive characteristics of the splenic vein in the dog. Its morphological and pharmacological discontinuities with the portal vein and splenic capsule.}, journal = {Blood vessels}, volume = {25}, number = {6}, pages = {273-284}, pmid = {3203139}, issn = {0303-6847}, mesh = {Animals ; Dogs ; In Vitro Techniques ; Isoproterenol/pharmacology ; Muscle Contraction/drug effects ; Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Neostigmine/pharmacology ; Portal Vein/anatomy &amp; histology/*drug effects/physiology ; Serotonin/pharmacology ; Spleen/anatomy &amp; histology/*drug effects/physiology ; Splenic Vein/anatomy &amp; histology/*drug effects/physiology ; }, abstract = {Vascular characteristics of the splenic vein are entirely different from the portal vein in the dog. We compared the responsiveness of the splenic capsule, which contains abundant smooth muscle with the portal and splenic veins. With respect to potentiation of acetylcholine-induced contraction by neostigmine, the relaxation response to isoproterenol and the contractile response to 5-hydroxytryptamine, the splenic capsule differed from the splenic vein, but was rather similar to the portal vein. A site of morphological and pharmacological discontinuity between the portal vein and the splenic vein occurred at the junction of the splenic vein and the left gastric vein to form the gastrosplenic vein. This junction may coincide with the site of connection of the embryonic splenic vein, a newly formed efferent vein of the spleen, with the portal vein, which was reported by Miki [cf. Bevan et al.: 4th Int. Symp. on Vascular Neuroeffector Mechanisms; Raven Press, New York 1983]. On the splenic side, histological examination revealed that smooth muscle of the splenic capsule and trabeculae are interconnected, but did not extend to the splenic vein. At openings of the trabecular veins into the 'intrasplenic' portion of the splenic vein the trabecular smooth muscle continued to the extended capsule. The site of change in pharmacological responses was also found to be located between the trabeculae and the intrasplenic portion of the splenic vein. Thus the splenic vein can be regarded as a distinct segment of vessel inserted between the portal vein and the spleen. This may reflect differences in embryogenesis of their smooth muscle.}, }
@article {pmid3169563, year = {1988}, author = {Sixl, W and Wisidagama, E and Stünzner, D and Withalm, H and Sixl-Voigt, B}, title = {Serological examinations of crows in Colombo's slaughter-house Sri Lanka.}, journal = {Geographia medica. Supplement = Geographia medica. Sonderband}, volume = {1}, number = {}, pages = {87-88}, pmid = {3169563}, issn = {0866-4323}, mesh = {Abattoirs ; Agglutination Tests/veterinary ; Animals ; Antibodies/*isolation &amp; purification ; Birds/*immunology ; Chlamydophila psittaci/immunology ; Complement Fixation Tests/veterinary ; Q Fever/immunology ; Rickettsia/immunology ; Sri Lanka ; }, abstract = {Crows from Colombo's slaughter-house were examined serologically towards ornithosis, Rickettsia, Newcastle Disease and Adenovirus. Positive reactions were shown in ornithosis, Q-fever, RMSF-Rickettsia-group and Adenovirus.}, }
@article {pmid3144990, year = {1988}, author = {Cohen, MM}, title = {Craniosynostosis update 1987.}, journal = {American journal of medical genetics. Supplement}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {99-148}, doi = {10.1002/ajmg.1320310514}, pmid = {3144990}, issn = {1040-3787}, mesh = {Animals ; *Craniosynostoses/etiology/physiopathology ; Disease Models, Animal ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; }, abstract = {Information on craniosynostosis in this paper updates "Craniosynostosis: Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Management" (Cohen MM Jr: New York: Raven Press, 1986). It also discusses recent developments that were included in the book but need further explanation or emphasis. Subjects discussed are: epidemiology, etiology, sutural biology, growth and development, neurological and psychosocial aspects, surgery, cloverleaf skulls, craniosynostosis syndromes, and prenatal diagnosis. Under the subject of etiology, fetal head constraint, maternal thyroid disease, calcified cephalohematoma, teratogens, and delayed suture closure and Wormian bones are considered. An updating of 15 cloverleaf skull conditions includes four monogenic disorders, two chromosomal disorders, one disruption, one iatrogenic condition, and seven syndromes of unknown cause. Newly recognized disorders with cloverleaf skull include Beare-Stevenson cutis gyratum syndrome and Say-Poznanski syndrome. Craniosynostosis syndromes and associations discussed include acrocraniofacial dysostosis, Apert syndrome, Beare-Stevenson cutis gyratum syndrome, Calabro syndrome, calvarial hyperostosis, chromosomal craniostenosis, Cole-Carpenter type osteogenesis imperfecta, Crouzon syndrome, Curry-Jones syndrome, Curry variant of Carpenter syndrome, cutis aplasia and cranial stenosis, Fontaine-Farriaux syndrome, Gomex-López-Hernández syndrome, Hersh syndrome, hyper-IgE syndrome and craniostenosis, hypomandibular faciocranial dysostosis, Marfanoid features and craniostenosis, Pfeiffer-type cardiocranial syndrome, Pfeiffer-type dolichocephalosyndactyly, and Say-Barber syndrome.}, }
@article {pmid3066134, year = {1988}, author = {van Manen, J and van Veelen, CW}, title = {Experiences in psycho-surgery in The Netherlands.}, journal = {Acta neurochirurgica. Supplementum}, volume = {44}, number = {}, pages = {167-169}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-7091-9005-0_32}, pmid = {3066134}, mesh = {Epilepsy/surgery ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Mental Disorders/*surgery ; Netherlands ; Psychosurgery/*methods ; Stereotaxic Techniques ; }, abstract = {The authors report on their experiences in 54 cases operated upon for various psychiatric diseases including compulsive neurosis, depression, anxiety, tension and in some of this group also automutilation; intractable temporal lobe epilepsy and aggressive behaviour; aggressive behaviour and minor epileptic problems; severe mental retardation, restlessness, automultilation and in some of this group also aggression. Operative procedures have been fronto-basal lesions according to Knight and Bridges, as well as lesions in the cingulum, the paracingular white matter, the anterior part of the radiation of the corpus callosum and the basal frontal region, using the technique of Crow. Amygdalotomy and thalamotomy was performed for epilepsy, aggression and automutilation in the mentally retarded patients. Because of the small number of patients and the variety of different diseases and techniques no statistically valid analysis of the results is possible.}, }
@article {pmid3060691, year = {1988}, author = {Calabresi, G}, title = {Jay Katz and law and medicine at Yale.}, journal = {Law, medicine &amp; health care : a publication of the American Society of Law &amp; Medicine}, volume = {16}, number = {3-4}, pages = {159}, doi = {10.1111/j.1748-720x.1988.tb01940.x}, pmid = {3060691}, issn = {0277-8459}, mesh = {Connecticut ; Education, Medical/history ; History, 20th Century ; Jurisprudence/history ; }, }
@article {pmid3060690, year = {1988}, author = {}, title = {A bibliography of Jay Katz, M.D.}, journal = {Law, medicine &amp; health care : a publication of the American Society of Law &amp; Medicine}, volume = {16}, number = {3-4}, pages = {157-158}, pmid = {3060690}, issn = {0277-8459}, mesh = {*Bibliographies as Topic ; History, 20th Century ; *Jurisprudence ; }, }
@article {pmid3060689, year = {1988}, author = {Capron, AM}, title = {Jay Katz: preface to a celebration.}, journal = {Law, medicine &amp; health care : a publication of the American Society of Law &amp; Medicine}, volume = {16}, number = {3-4}, pages = {153-156}, doi = {10.1111/j.1748-720x.1988.tb01938.x}, pmid = {3060689}, issn = {0277-8459}, mesh = {Education, Medical/history ; History, 20th Century ; Jurisprudence/history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid3060688, year = {1988}, author = {}, title = {Jay Katz: authority and autonomy, power and process.}, journal = {Law, medicine &amp; health care : a publication of the American Society of Law &amp; Medicine}, volume = {16}, number = {3-4}, pages = {153-273}, pmid = {3060688}, issn = {0277-8459}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; *Human Experimentation ; Humans ; Informed Consent/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Jurisprudence/*history ; Malpractice/legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Power, Psychological ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid3059473, year = {1988}, author = {Bleich, A and Brown, SL and Kahn, R and van Praag, HM}, title = {The role of serotonin in schizophrenia.}, journal = {Schizophrenia bulletin}, volume = {14}, number = {2}, pages = {297-315}, doi = {10.1093/schbul/14.2.297}, pmid = {3059473}, issn = {0586-7614}, mesh = {Brain/physiopathology ; Dopamine/physiology ; Humans ; Receptors, Serotonin/physiology ; Schizophrenia/*physiopathology ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Serotonin/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Studies examining serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5HT) in schizophrenia show variable and inconsistent findings, which might reflect the heterogeneity of the disease. When these studies are reviewed in the light of Crow's "two-syndrome" paradigm of schizophrenia, a new trend emerges. It appears that 5HT findings may be related to certain features of Type II schizophrenia such as negative symptoms, degenerative brain changes, and chronicity in the following manner: (1) 5HT2 antagonists, which have recently become available, have been shown to have an antipsychotic effect, particularly on the negative symptom cluster. (2) Decreased levels of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid in cerebrospinal fluid have been found to be correlated with cortical atrophy or ventricular enlargement in schizophrenic patients. (3) A subgroup of chronic schizophrenic patients has been shown to have elevated levels of platelet or whole blood 5HT. We propose, then, that 5HT dysfunction might be related to Type II, or negative syndrome, schizophrenia, and that the nature of this dysfunction might involve 5HT postsynaptic receptor hypersensitivity. We further suggest that the pharmacotherapy of schizophrenia should include a 5HT-blocking component, as well as a dopamine-blocking component, and we propose that future research should address the role of selective 5HT receptor hypersensitivity in schizophrenia.}, }
@article {pmid2847276, year = {1988}, author = {Gherardi, R and Zuber, M and Viard, JP}, title = {[Dysglobulinemic neuropathies].}, journal = {Revue neurologique}, volume = {144}, number = {6-7}, pages = {391-408}, pmid = {2847276}, issn = {0035-3787}, mesh = {Amyloidosis/complications ; Cryoglobulinemia/complications ; Dysgammaglobulinemia/*complications/diagnosis ; Humans ; Motor Neurons ; Paraproteinemias/complications ; Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/*complications/diagnosis ; Plasmacytoma/complications ; }, abstract = {Monoclonal gammopathies are frequently associated with peripheral neuropathies of which clinical, electrophysiological, pathological and possibly pathogenetical aspects are heterogeneous. Nevertheless some clinico-biological entities, which account for the majority of cases, have been recently recognized: 1) The IgM neuropathy is a chronic demyelinating sensori-motor polyneuropathy with tremor and ataxia as prominent features. It can be either associated with MGUS or Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. The light chain of the gammopathy is kappa in a majority of cases. Numerous reports have demonstrated specific antibody activities supported by the M-protein and directed against various peripheral nerve antigens, usually myelin components such as the myelin associated glycoprotein (MAG). The ultrastructural evidence of widely spaced myelin is suggestive of the diagnosis but is not consistent. Treatment directed towards the gammopathy is occasionally associated with improvement of the symptoms. 2) The neuropathy of the osteosclerotic myelomas and solitary plasmacytomas present as a chronic sensori-motor polyradiculoneuropathy with conspicuous demyelination and may be associated with one or more of the systemic clinical features of the Crow-Fukase or POEMS syndrome (Polyneuropathy, Organomegaly, Endocrinopathy, M-protein, Skin changes). The POEMS syndrome may also be associated with "benign" monoclonal or even polyclonal dysproteinemias. The M-proteins are almost all IgG or IgA with lambda light chains. There are some relations between POEMS syndrome and Castleman's disease. The pathogenesis of both disorders remains obscure. Treatment is most favorable in case of solitary plasmacytomas, which may be completely removed. 3) The neuropathy observed in patients with primary AL amyloidosis or amylosis associated with malignant plasma-cell dyscrasias is rare. Sensory deficit and autonomic dysfunction are related to a prominent involvement of small myelinated and unmyelinated fibers. A clinical and/or electro-physiological carpal tunnel syndrome is frequent. In a majority of cases the light chain of the M-protein is lambda. Amyloid deposits are observed on nerve biopsy. Treatment is inefficient. 4) The neuropathy associated with cryoglobulinemias may be asymmetric, painful, cryosensitive and associated with cutaneous purpura and neuromuscular vasculitis. In fact, in a majority of cases the symptoms are less suggestive raising the problem of an incidental laboratory finding. 5) A motoneuron disease-like syndrome may develop in patients with various types of monoclonal gammopathies.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid3315380, year = {1987}, author = {Cotton, FJ}, title = {Artificial impaction in hip fracture. By F. J. Cotton, 1911.}, journal = {Clinical orthopaedics and related research}, volume = {}, number = {225}, pages = {3-6}, pmid = {3315380}, issn = {0009-921X}, mesh = {Femoral Neck Fractures/*therapy ; Fracture Fixation/*history/methods ; History, 20th Century ; United States ; }, abstract = {Frederic Jay Cotton (Fig. 1) was born in Prescott, Wisconsin, and educated at Harvard. After postgraduate study in New York and in Europe, he returned to Boston where he had an association with most of the important hospitals. In addition to great surgical talent, he also was an able administrator and medical politician. He is remembered primarily for his work on fractures, which is summarized in his book, Dislocations and Joint Fractures. The two editions of this book were illustrated by many of the author's own drawings. Cotton was a founder of the American College of Surgeons and served as Regent of the College as well as on the Committee on Fractures. He served in both the Spanish American War and World War I. In the summer of 1918, he was the Chief of Surgery at Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington, D.C. This article on "Artificial Impaction in Hip Fracture" is an example of the application of a clinical observation to the development of an improvement in the care of patients. It had been known for a long time that impacted fractures of the neck of the femur healed, while displaced fractures did not. Cotton was the first to suggest that impaction, after reduction of the fracture, would be of value. Cotton published three additional papers on the use of impaction in the treatment of hip fractures, the last in 1938, the year of his death. Impaction of fractures of the neck of the femur after reduction of the displacement was rapidly incorporated into all of the procedures for internal fixation of such injuries.}, }
@article {pmid3479776, year = {1987}, author = {Foley, P}, title = {Molecular clock rates at loci under stabilizing selection.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {84}, number = {22}, pages = {7996-8000}, pmid = {3479776}, issn = {0027-8424}, mesh = {Alleles ; *Biological Evolution ; Genetics, Population ; Mathematics ; *Models, Genetic ; *Mutation ; Selection, Genetic ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Under stabilizing selection in a finite population, lambda, the rate of allelic substitutions at a locus is approximately lambda approximately mu(1 + S)-1/2, where mu is the mutation rate. S, the stringency of selection upon new mutants, is defined by S = NVm/Vs, where N is the population size and Vm/Vs is a measure of the average fitness decrease experienced by new mutants. The approximation holds both for a "lonely" locus, which is the sole provider of genetic variation for the character under selection, and for an "embedded" locus, which is not. In both cases I use the Crow and Kimura model of a continuum of alleles with Gaussian selection and mutation. Monte Carlo simulations corroborate the substitution rate formula. Some molecular evolution data suggest the potential utility and limitations of the formula for estimating population size, mutation, and selection parameters. This work agrees with the rest of nearly neutral theory in emphasizing the important role of population size for substitution rates.}, }
@article {pmid3447808, year = {1987}, author = {Umehara, F and Izumo, S and Jounosono, M and Osame, M and Igata, A}, title = {[An autopsied case of Crow-Fukase syndrome. A neuropathological study with emphasis on spinal roots].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {27}, number = {11}, pages = {1474-1479}, pmid = {3447808}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Aged ; Edema/pathology ; Humans ; Male ; Microscopy, Electron ; Paraproteinemias/pathology ; Pigmentation Disorders/*pathology ; Polyneuropathies/*pathology ; Spinal Nerve Roots/*pathology/ultrastructure ; Syndrome ; }, }
@article {pmid3684469, year = {1987}, author = {Persaud, G}, title = {Sex and age differences on the Raven's matrices.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {65}, number = {1}, pages = {45-46}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1987.65.1.45}, pmid = {3684469}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aging/*psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Psychological Tests ; Psychometrics ; Sex Factors ; }, abstract = {This study examined the effects of sex and age on scores on a matrices test among university and college students aged 17 to 51 yr. Sex differences in mean scores were nonsignificant. The general decline with age was linear and negative, significantly so for women (n = 132), not for men (n = 74). Significant decrements occurred from the age of 26 yr. upwards for women only. The findings suggest that loss of intellectual capacity on the Raven's Matrices can be attributed to age.}, }
@article {pmid3625580, year = {1987}, author = {Szymczak, JT}, title = {Daily distribution of sleep states in the rook Corvus frugilegus.}, journal = {Journal of comparative physiology. A, Sensory, neural, and behavioral physiology}, volume = {161}, number = {2}, pages = {321-327}, pmid = {3625580}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Brain/physiology ; Electroencephalography ; Evoked Potentials ; Motor Activity/physiology ; Seasons ; Sleep Stages/*physiology ; Sleep, REM/physiology ; Temperature ; Wakefulness/physiology ; }, abstract = {Sleep and wake states were monitored polygraphically in the rook Corvus frugilegus, under the natural photoperiod and temperature. The indices of sleep and wake states in the rook were similar to those described previously for birds in general. The appearance of sleep episodes was confined to the dark part of the photoperiod. Slow wave sleep (SWS) showed a tendency to increase during the course of the night, while paradoxical sleep (PS) showed the opposite trend. The distribution of short SWS episodes were clustered into two groups, one group occurred in the period following the onset of sleep and the other, less prominent group occurred towards the end of sleep. The longest episodes of SWS appeared in the second half of the night, whereas those of PS appeared after onset of sleep.}, }
@article {pmid3308601, year = {1987}, author = {Jerger, J}, title = {Diagnostic audiology: historical perspectives.}, journal = {Ear and hearing}, volume = {8}, number = {4 Suppl}, pages = {7S-12S}, doi = {10.1097/00003446-198708001-00004}, pmid = {3308601}, issn = {0196-0202}, mesh = {Audiology/*history ; Hearing Tests/history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; United States ; }, abstract = {In summary, the modern era of diagnostic audiometry began with the era of loudness recruitment in the 1950s, followed closely by the era of acoustic impedance in the 1960s and 1970s and, most recently, the era of evoked potentials in the 1970s and early 1980s. Throughout this period, the era of speech audiometry has grown slowly but steadily. Jay Sanders has made important contributions in each of these areas, but his most important legacy will be the continuing contributions of his many dedicated and loyal students in the years to come.}, }
@article {pmid3308593, year = {1987}, author = {}, title = {Proceedings of a meeting in honor of Professor Jay Sanders. Nashville, July 26, 1986.}, journal = {Ear and hearing}, volume = {8}, number = {4 Suppl}, pages = {1S-57S}, pmid = {3308593}, issn = {0196-0202}, mesh = {Audiology/history ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid3307511, year = {1987}, author = {Nagoshi, CT and Wilson, JR}, title = {Influence of family alcoholism history on alcohol metabolism, sensitivity, and tolerance.}, journal = {Alcoholism, clinical and experimental research}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {392-398}, doi = {10.1111/j.1530-0277.1987.tb01330.x}, pmid = {3307511}, issn = {0145-6008}, support = {AA-03527/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; DA-07043/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adoption ; Adult ; Alcohol Drinking/*psychology ; Alcoholism/*genetics/metabolism ; *Diseases in Twins ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Psychological Tests ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Twins, Dizygotic ; Twins, Monozygotic ; }, abstract = {As part of the Colorado Alcohol Research on Twins and Adoptees (CARTA), 35 subjects who reported having an alcoholic parent or sibling [family alcoholism history positive (FHP)] were matched with 35 controls [family alcoholism history negative (FHN)]. All subjects were tested three times on a battery of physiological, motor, and cognitive performance tasks before the ingestion of alcohol, then were tested three more times over a 3-hr period during which their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was brought up to and maintained at about 0.10 g/dl by an initial large dose of ethanol and subsequent topping doses. FHP subjects scored significantly lower than FHN subjects on the Raven's Progressive Matrices and on some of the cognitive tasks before alcohol ingestion. FHP and FHN subjects, however, did not significantly differ in absorption and clearance of alcohol or in sensitivity and acute tolerance scores calculated on the repeated measures. Contrary to expectations, FHP subjects perceived themselves as being more impaired by alcohol than FHN subjects, and there was little evidence to suggest that they were less sensitive to variations in BAC.}, }
@article {pmid3677925, year = {1987}, author = {Szymczak, JT}, title = {Distribution of sleep and wakefulness in 24-h light-dark cycles in the juvenile and adult magpie, Pica pica.}, journal = {Chronobiologia}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {277-287}, pmid = {3677925}, issn = {0390-0037}, mesh = {Aging/*physiology ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Circadian Rhythm ; Electroencephalography ; Electromyography ; Electrooculography ; Sleep/*physiology ; Sleep Stages/physiology ; Wakefulness ; }, abstract = {The daily organization of sleep and wakefulness was examined electrographically under natural conditions in captive juvenile and adult magpies, Pica pica. Electrographic indices of sleep in the magpie were found to be similar to those of other avian species. The daily amount of TS in juveniles was 17% greater than in adults. The amount of paradoxical sleep (PS) in adults was one-fifth that of juveniles. In adults sleep was confined to darkness, while in juveniles it also occurred during the light period. SWS in adults was almost constant, while PS slightly increased across the night. No systematic trends were observed in juveniles. In both groups of birds, the longest sleep episodes appeared around midnight.}, }
@article {pmid3625568, year = {1987}, author = {Ziv, A}, title = {The effect of humor on aggression catharsis in the classroom.}, journal = {The Journal of psychology}, volume = {121}, number = {4}, pages = {359-364}, doi = {10.1080/00223980.1987.9712676}, pmid = {3625568}, issn = {0022-3980}, mesh = {*Abreaction ; Adolescent ; Aggression/*psychology ; *Catharsis ; Female ; Frustration ; Humans ; Learning Disabilities/*psychology ; Male ; *Wit and Humor as Topic ; }, abstract = {Two studies were designed to measure the cathartic effects of humor on aggressive responses. In the first study, two versions (easy and difficult) of Raven's intelligence test were administered to two groups of high school students. Only the easy version could be solved in the alloted time. Rosenzweig's (1951) Picture Frustration test was then administered and the students' aggressive responses were scored. Results showed that those who did not solve the problems had significantly higher scores on aggressivity than did the others. The second study, using four different groups, was planned according to a modified Solomon design. Two of the four groups of students completed the difficult part of the Raven test, and then two video-tapes were presented: a humorous one to two groups and a neutral one to the others. Finally, the Rosenzweig Picture Frustration test was administered to all four groups. An analysis of variance computed on the aggressivity scores showed one significant difference: frustrated students who viewed the humorous videotape had lower scores than those viewing the neutral one.}, }
@article {pmid3436647, year = {1987}, author = {Ahmad, A and Siddiqui, AA and Ali, B}, title = {Ultrasonic propagation in tissues of the bird Corvus splendens Vieillot.}, journal = {Indian journal of experimental biology}, volume = {25}, number = {7}, pages = {483-484}, pmid = {3436647}, issn = {0019-5189}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Body Water ; In Vitro Techniques ; *Ultrasonics ; }, }
@article {pmid3627917, year = {1987}, author = {Manschreck, TC and Ames, D and Maher, BA and Schneyer, ML}, title = {Impoverished written responses and negative features of schizophrenia.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {64}, number = {3 Pt 2}, pages = {1163-1169}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1987.64.3c.1163}, pmid = {3627917}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Humans ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Schizophrenia/*diagnosis ; Schizophrenic Language ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Semantics ; Thinking ; *Writing ; }, abstract = {Repetition in the written language of schizophrenics and its possible relationships to other aspects of schizophrenic disorders are not well understood. We investigated repetitiousness in written utterances, finding schizophrenic subjects to be more repetitive than affective controls and normal controls. Over-all, written repetitiousness was more strongly correlated with psychopathologic features than oral repetitiousness. As in previous work, thought-disordered schizophrenic subjects produced the most repetitive responses. Poverty of content and illogical thinking were correlated with scores for written repetition. Measures of other negative features, disturbed mental functioning and motor behavior were also associated with repetitiousness in both written and oral modes. That these negative features are linked (namely, linguistic repetitiousness, negative formal thought disorder, voluntary motor abnormalities, and deficient mental functioning) is consistent with Crow's concept of a defect syndrome (Type 2) in schizophrenia.}, }
@article {pmid3662426, year = {1987}, author = {Reddy, BM and Chopra, VP and Malhotra, KC}, title = {Opportunity for natural selection with special reference to population structural measures among the Vadde.}, journal = {Annals of human biology}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {249-261}, doi = {10.1080/03014468700009011}, pmid = {3662426}, issn = {0301-4460}, mesh = {Fertility ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; India ; Male ; Marriage ; Mathematics ; Mortality ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {Crow's indices of opportunity for natural selection have been studied among the Vadde, a fishing community of Kolleru Lake, Andhra Pradesh, India. The sample comes from 15 of the 60 fishing villages. The indices were computed both at the level of village and population units. A village sample of Palle, another fishing group in the area, has also been analysed for the purpose of comparison. An attempt has been made to explain variation in selection indices among the villages using population structural measures. A wide variation is found in both the fertility and mortality indices between the villages. The values were compatible with those found for other fishing groups studied previously, and in the middle of the range observed for the Indian populations (about 100) studied so far. Population structural measures are found to explain a significant amount of variation in Im and It but not in the fertility index.}, }
@article {pmid3646745, year = {1987}, author = {Moriarty, MB}, title = {Jay's alive. Do we owe him an apology?.}, journal = {RN}, volume = {50}, number = {5}, pages = {38-41}, pmid = {3646745}, issn = {0033-7021}, mesh = {Adult ; Amputation, Surgical ; Humans ; Life Support Care ; Male ; Meningitis, Meningococcal/complications/*nursing ; *Patient Advocacy ; *Quality of Life ; }, }
@article {pmid3307978, year = {1987}, author = {McGuffin, P and Farmer, A and Gottesman, II}, title = {Is there really a split in schizophrenia? The genetic evidence.}, journal = {The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science}, volume = {150}, number = {}, pages = {581-592}, doi = {10.1192/bjp.150.5.581}, pmid = {3307978}, issn = {0007-1250}, mesh = {Adult ; Diseases in Twins ; Genetic Markers ; Humans ; Models, Psychological ; Phenotype ; Schizophrenia/classification/*genetics ; }, abstract = {Although the clinical presentation and course of schizophrenia is highly variable, it is unclear whether this reflects heterogeneity at an aetiological level. The genetic evidence is reviewed concerning 'traditional' clinical subtypes as more novel categories derived from multivariate statistical methods and Crow's type I-type II classification. Recent data based on a twin series and re-analysis of older published family material suggest that attempts to divide up schizophrenia have resulted in splits between two or more categories of disorder which occupy different positions on the same continuum of liability. Thus, apparent heterogeneity is more likely to be due to quantitative difference in familial-genetic loading rather than qualitative differences. Similarly, the hypothesis that schizophrenia can be broadly divided into two groups, one genetic and the other non-genetic has little to support it. It seems improbable that any further useful and genetically relevant subdivision of schizophrenia can be effected on purely clinical grounds. Further progress awaits developments in the discovery of endophenotypes and the application of molecular genetic marker strategies.}, }
@article {pmid3827265, year = {1987}, author = {Burton, JL}, title = {Systemic plasmacytosis and the Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {Archives of dermatology}, volume = {123}, number = {4}, pages = {425-426}, pmid = {3827265}, issn = {0003-987X}, mesh = {Humans ; *Hypergammaglobulinemia ; *Lymphatic Diseases ; Plasma Cells/*pathology ; Skin/*pathology ; *Skin Diseases ; Syndrome ; }, }
@article {pmid3666548, year = {1987}, author = {Basso, A and Capitani, E and Laiacona, M}, title = {Raven's coloured progressive matrices: normative values on 305 adult normal controls.}, journal = {Functional neurology}, volume = {2}, number = {2}, pages = {189-194}, pmid = {3666548}, issn = {0393-5264}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; *Color Perception ; Female ; *Form Perception ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Reference Values ; }, abstract = {The use of Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (PM 47) in experiments with brain-damaged patients is briefly reviewed. Because norms for adults are still not available, normative data were calculated on 305 normals; corrections for age and education and centile allocation of the scores are furnished.}, }
@article {pmid3626046, year = {1987}, author = {Kitamura, T and Sugaya, N and Ishiyama, T and Wakabayashi, Y and Hirose, S}, title = {[A case of Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with periodic fever and severe thrombocytopenia].}, journal = {[Rinsho ketsueki] The Japanese journal of clinical hematology}, volume = {28}, number = {4}, pages = {547-552}, pmid = {3626046}, issn = {0485-1439}, mesh = {Fever/*etiology ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Paraproteinemias/*complications ; Periodicity ; Pigmentation Disorders/complications ; Polyneuropathies/*complications ; Syndrome ; Thrombocytopenia/*etiology ; }, }
@article {pmid3108067, year = {1987}, author = {Foster, GD and Moon, TW}, title = {Metabolism in sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus) hepatocytes: the effects of insulin and glucagon.}, journal = {General and comparative endocrinology}, volume = {66}, number = {1}, pages = {102-115}, doi = {10.1016/0016-6480(87)90355-8}, pmid = {3108067}, issn = {0016-6480}, mesh = {Animals ; Carbon Dioxide/metabolism ; Fishes/*metabolism ; Glucagon/antagonists &amp; inhibitors/*pharmacology ; Gluconeogenesis/drug effects ; Glucose/metabolism ; Glycogen/metabolism ; Insulin/*pharmacology ; Liver/drug effects/*metabolism ; Serine/metabolism ; }, abstract = {The metabolism of the sea raven, Hemitripterus americanus, hepatocyte preparation was studied, emphasizing the roles of insulin and glucagon on carbohydrate status. Sea raven hepatocyte glycogen was depleted throughout the preincubation and 2-hr incubation period in the presence of either glucose or serine. Bovine glucagon stimulated glycogen loss and increased glucose levels and serine flux to glucose. Porcine insulin prevented glycogen depletion at least over 1.5 hr of incubation, but did not affect glucose levels in the hepatocytes. It also significantly increased serine flux to glucose, glycogen, and protein, and alanine flux to glucose, CO2, and protein. Teleost insulin did not alter the pattern of hepatic glycogen depletion, while it did increase glucose levels and serine flux to glucose, glycogen, and lipids, and alanine flux to CO2 and glucose. Both glucagon and porcine insulin increased glucose flux to glycogen, but neither altered glucose conversion to CO2, lactate, or protein. The teleost insulin had no effect on glucose conversion to any product tested. Teleost insulin had an additive effect on the glucagon-induced increases in total glucose production and gluconeogenesis from serine, while glucagon offset the insulin stimulation of serine flux to glycogen and CO2. The results demonstrate that glucagon functions to increase glucose production from gluconeogenic precursors and glycogen in sea raven hepatocytes, while insulin demonstrates anabolic effects through gluconeogenic precursors. It is suggested that insulin functions in sea raven hepatocytes to increase glycogen stores through increased amino acid utilization and/or to increase glucose production for transport to, and storage in, glucose-utilizing tissues (e.g., muscle). An antagonism between insulin and glucagon on the glycolytic/gluconeogenic pathways as is found in mammalian livers is not as clear in sea raven hepatocytes. These findings are consistent with the carnivorous diet of the sea raven and a preferentially gluconeogenic role for the liver of this species.}, }
@article {pmid3824110, year = {1987}, author = {Braghetto, I and Lazo, M and Leiva, V and Rebolledo, P and Gallardo, I and Csendes, A and Bardavid, A and Diaz, A and Bahamonde, A}, title = {A prospective study of intraoperative histologic antrum and corpus boundary in patients undergoing highly selective vagotomy for duodenal ulcer.}, journal = {Surgery, gynecology &amp; obstetrics}, volume = {164}, number = {3}, pages = {213-218}, pmid = {3824110}, issn = {0039-6087}, mesh = {Adult ; Duodenal Ulcer/*surgery ; Female ; Gastric Mucosa/*cytology ; Humans ; Intraoperative Period ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Parietal Cells, Gastric/*cytology ; Prospective Studies ; Pyloric Antrum/*anatomy &amp; histology/innervation ; Stomach/innervation ; Vagotomy, Proximal Gastric/*methods ; }, abstract = {The results of the present study demonstrate that, at the level of the proximal branch of Crow's foot of Latarjet, parietal cells are found, and therefore, it must be sectioned when performing highly selective vagotomy. At the level of the distal branch, antral mucosa is found. At the level of the middle branch, in almost one-half of the instances, parietal cells are found, and its section must be evaluated with gastric emptying studies.}, }
@article {pmid3664100, year = {1987}, author = {Farmer, A and Jackson, R and McGuffin, P and Storey, P}, title = {Cerebral ventricular enlargement in chronic schizophrenia: consistencies and contradictions.}, journal = {The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science}, volume = {150}, number = {}, pages = {324-330}, doi = {10.1192/bjp.150.3.324}, pmid = {3664100}, issn = {0007-1250}, mesh = {Adult ; Brain/diagnostic imaging/pathology ; Cerebral Ventricles/*anatomy &amp; histology/pathology ; Chronic Disease ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Schizophrenia/classification/*diagnosis/pathology ; *Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {A study of cerebral ventricular size measured as ventricle to brain ratio (VBR) using computerised tomographic brain scan in chronic schizophrenics provided no support for suggestions that there are significant differences between patients who fall into different clinical subtypes. We found no significant difference in VBR between patients with and without a family history of schizophrenia or between those with or without paranoid symptoms. Applying Crow's classification, contrary to expectations, Type 1 patients had significantly larger ventricles than those with 'mixed' symptomatology (both Type 1 and Type 2 features). We also applied a variety of operational criteria which attempt to define schizophrenia as a whole: of these only Schneider's first-rank symptoms (FRS) yielded conclusive results--FRS-positive patients had significantly larger mean VBR than those without such symptoms. Previously, it has been suggested that ventricular enlargement is more closely associated with 'negative' than with 'positive' symptoms.}, }
@article {pmid3581593, year = {1987}, author = {Ohkoshi, N and Nakanishi, T and Ozaki, Y and Kanazawa, I and Sakuma, H}, title = {[The Crow-Fukase syndrome associated with extramedullary plasmacytoma--an autopsy case].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {27}, number = {2}, pages = {185-193}, pmid = {3581593}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Humans ; Lymphatic Diseases/*pathology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Pigmentation Disorders/pathology ; Plasmacytoma/complications/*pathology ; Polyneuropathies/complications/*pathology ; Retroperitoneal Neoplasms/complications/*pathology ; Syndrome ; }, }
@article {pmid3800427, year = {1987}, author = {Shelley, WB and Shelley, ED}, title = {The skin changes in the Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome. A case report.}, journal = {Archives of dermatology}, volume = {123}, number = {1}, pages = {85-87}, pmid = {3800427}, issn = {0003-987X}, mesh = {Aged ; Humans ; Male ; Pigmentation Disorders/complications/*pathology ; Plasmacytoma/complications/*pathology ; Polyneuropathies/complications/*pathology ; Skin/*pathology ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {A man with a six-year history of intermittent burning sensations in his legs, hypothyroidism, and peripheral neuropathy also had hypertrichosis, hyperpigmentation, Terry nails, and taut thickened skin of the extremities. Discovery of a plasma cell tumor led to recognition of the Crow-Fukase syndrome, and appropriate treatment with melphalan and prednisone.}, }
@article {pmid3687014, year = {1987}, author = {Okulewicz, A and Kozak, B}, title = {[Nematoda of corvid birds in Lower Silesia].}, journal = {Wiadomosci parazytologiczne}, volume = {33}, number = {2}, pages = {199-207}, pmid = {3687014}, issn = {0043-5163}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*parasitology ; Female ; Host-Parasite Interactions ; Male ; Nematoda/*classification/physiology ; Poland ; }, }
@article {pmid3687013, year = {1987}, author = {Zuchowska, E}, title = {[Role of synanthropic corvid birds in the transmission of parasites to birds in a zoo].}, journal = {Wiadomosci parazytologiczne}, volume = {33}, number = {2}, pages = {193-198}, pmid = {3687013}, issn = {0043-5163}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Zoo/*parasitology ; Birds/*parasitology ; Helminths/*physiology ; Host-Parasite Interactions ; Poland ; }, }
@article {pmid3594512, year = {1987}, author = {Tavazzi, L and Zotti, AM and Mazzuero, G}, title = {Acute pulmonary edema provoked by psychologic stress. Report of two cases.}, journal = {Cardiology}, volume = {74}, number = {3}, pages = {229-235}, doi = {10.1159/000174202}, pmid = {3594512}, issn = {0008-6312}, mesh = {Acute Disease ; Aged ; *Hemodynamics ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Pulmonary Edema/*etiology ; Stress, Psychological/*complications/physiopathology ; }, abstract = {Emotional stress has been considered responsible for life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias but acute stress-induced heart failure has not been reported in man. Two patients with recent uncomplicated myocardial infarction presenting acute pulmonary edema immediately after psychologic stress testing are the object of this report. Four stressors, mental arithmetic, 30 emotionally involving questions (Sacks' test modified), an image quiz (Raven's matrices) and white noise were administered during hemodynamic monitoring (Swan-Ganz catheter) in a 3-min stress-5-min recovery sequence. Response to the stressors was not unusual; greatest cardiovascular response occurred during mental arithmetic, least during noise and intermediate patterns were induced by the other stressors. Heart rate and systemic blood pressure, markers of autonomic activation, increased moderately. Neither ventricular arrhythmias nor ischemic electrocardiographic changes were observed during or after stress testing. Complete recovery followed each stress-induced cardiovascular response. About 10 min after completing stress testing, acute pulmonary edema occurred in both patients neither of whom had presented other episodes of acute pulmonary edema, suggesting that psychologic stress may induce pump dysfunction in patients with latent heart failure.}, }
@article {pmid3549539, year = {1987}, author = {Hed, HM}, title = {Opportunity for selection in the parish of Tuna, Sweden.}, journal = {Human heredity}, volume = {37}, number = {1}, pages = {30-35}, doi = {10.1159/000153674}, pmid = {3549539}, issn = {0001-5652}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Female ; Fertility ; Fetal Death ; *Genetics, Medical ; Genetics, Population ; History, 18th Century ; History, 19th Century ; Humans ; Infant Mortality ; Parity ; Pregnancy ; Probability ; *Selection, Genetic ; Sweden ; }, abstract = {This article is part of a series of studies on the opportunity for selection in Swedish populations. The study concerns women who, with some exceptions, were born during the first half of the 19th century. A modified form of Crow's index has been used to estimate the upper limit of natural selection. The average index for the period 1805-1850 was I = 1.136, which value falls within the limits of what has been found for the other Swedish populations that have been studied.}, }
@article {pmid3449486, year = {1987}, author = {Vogel, F and Krüger, J and Schalt, E and Schnobel, R and Hassling, L}, title = {No consistent relationships between oscillations and latencies of visually and auditory evoked EEG potentials and measures of mental performance.}, journal = {Human neurobiology}, volume = {6}, number = {3}, pages = {173-182}, pmid = {3449486}, issn = {0721-9075}, mesh = {Adult ; Alpha Rhythm ; Concept Formation ; Electroencephalography ; *Evoked Potentials, Auditory ; *Evoked Potentials, Visual ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term ; Problem Solving ; *Reaction Time ; }, abstract = {In this study, the hypothesis was tested whether there is any relationship between measures of intelligence and working speed on the one hand, and characteristics of visually or auditory evoked EEG potentials, on the other. The study was performed on two samples: 1. In 236 University students selected for presence of four different, inherited EEG variants, product-moment correlations were computed between test scores for various aspects of mental performance on the one hand, and two measures of averaged visual and auditory evoked EEG potentials (VEPs and AEPs), on the other. The two EP measures were the average latency of all identifiable peaks between 70 and 600 ms after stimulation; and the "oscillation", a combined measure of amplitudes, comparable to Hendrickson's "string measure". Moreover, correlations were computed between two selected test scores (IQ and Raven) on the one sides, and the amplitudes and latencies of the components named P1, N1, and P2 by Buchsbaum on the other. 2. Twenty-four adults with mental retardation of unknown origin, inmates of an institution for the mentally retarded, were compared with 19 normal controls matched for age and sex - there were no consistent positive correlations between the characteristics of VEPs and AEPs and any of the performance measures studied. Hence, the hypothesis that there are consistent correlations between oscillation and latency of EPs and measures of mental performance was not confirmed. There is no convincing overall explanation for the discrepancies between various results reported in the literature but some of them may be explained either by individual differences in EEG maturation among children, or by additional sensoric input in some series, or by admixture of subjects with organic brain damage in some of the series, or by the individual characteristics of the resting EEG - a parameter that had been neglected in all previous studies.}, }
@article {pmid3445809, year = {1987}, author = {Bruck, JC and Baker, TJ and Gordon, H}, title = {Facial mimics and the coronal brow lift.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {199-201}, pmid = {3445809}, issn = {0364-216X}, mesh = {Eyebrows/*surgery ; Facial Expression ; Facial Muscles/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Surgery, Plastic/*methods ; }, abstract = {The classic rhytidectomy leaves the upper third of the face without improvement. Yet the eye-eyebrow region is the most influential in determining facial expressions. There is only a narrow range of positions of the eyebrows in which they are perceived as attractive. The influence of the coronal browlift on facial mimics is discussed as it seems to be a way to predictably reposition the eyebrows and improve crow's feet and forehead, and glabellar wrinkles at the same time. The results of 56 patients surveyed 1-3 years postoperatively are presented.}, }
@article {pmid3434128, year = {1987}, author = {Guttman, R and Nathan, M and Esrachi, A}, title = {Restrictiveness-permissiveness of their environment as perceived by kibbutz twins and singletons.}, journal = {Acta geneticae medicae et gemellologiae}, volume = {36}, number = {2}, pages = {165-170}, doi = {10.1017/s0001566000004396}, pmid = {3434128}, issn = {0001-5660}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Authoritarianism ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Faculty ; Humans ; Infant ; Israel ; Parents ; Permissiveness ; Psychological Tests ; *Social Environment ; *Social Perception ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Twins/*psychology ; }, abstract = {This research compares similarities and differences between kibbutz twins and singletons on individual perceptions of extent of restriction imposed by their fathers and mothers, teachers, caretakers and peers with regard to the children's choices, plans, and actual activities. During the past two years, the parents of all kibbutz twins in Israel of age 1 to 18 have been contacted. They provided background information about themselves and their twin children. In each kibbutz, two control singletons were selected of the same sex and age for each twin pair, yielding a "quartet". With the aid of a mapping sentence, questionnaires were constructed to help ascertain the child's role in life areas such as family, friendship, school, hobbies, work, amusement. Questionnaires with the same facet design are being administered to children (twin and singleton), mothers, fathers, teachers, and caretakers. In addition, each child is given a battery of tests--including the verbal WISC, Block Design, Raven Matrices, and Reading Comprehension. The children will be interviewed and tested in three successive years, beginning either in grade 4 or 5. Data will thus be obtained on changes in perception of permissiveness-restrictiveness and their relation to performance at ages 9 to 13. To date 9-year-olds in 14 kibbutzim have been interviewed. Analyses of responses to four questions are presented in this paper. The preliminary analyses indicate that twins and singletons have similar means and distributions with regard to the extent to which the children feel they are told what to do by either parent.}, }
@article {pmid3789196, year = {1986}, author = {Bailey, JR and Driedzic, WR}, title = {Function of myoglobin in oxygen consumption by isolated perfused fish hearts.}, journal = {The American journal of physiology}, volume = {251}, number = {6 Pt 2}, pages = {R1144-50}, doi = {10.1152/ajpregu.1986.251.6.R1144}, pmid = {3789196}, issn = {0002-9513}, mesh = {Animals ; Cardiac Output ; Fishes/*metabolism ; Heart/physiology ; In Vitro Techniques ; Myocardium/*metabolism ; Myoglobin/*metabolism ; *Oxygen Consumption ; Partial Pressure ; Perfusion ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Myoglobin, an intracellular O2-binding protein, plays a protective role in maintaining performance of isolated fish hearts under hypoxic conditions. This study was designed to test the hypothesis that the protein contributes to O2 consumption under conditions of increased O2 demand or hypoxia. Isolated myoglobin-rich sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus) hearts and myoglobin-poor ocean pout (Macrozoarces americanus) hearts were perfused under conditions of changing partial pressure of O2 (PO2) and afterload. Sea raven hearts maintained O2 consumption and cardiac performance at low PO2 and high afterload, whereas ocean pout hearts did not. In other cases sea raven and ocean pout hearts were treated with hydroxylamine, which renders myoglobin incapable of binding O2, and subjected to changing PO2 and afterload. Sea raven hearts could not maintain O2 consumption and cardiac performance, whereas hydroxylamine treatment had no effect on O2 consumption in ocean pout hearts under these conditions. These data provide the first evidence to support the concept that myoglobin plays a role in O2 consumption of hearts.}, }
@article {pmid3782083, year = {1986}, author = {Ng, NF and Trinh, KY and Hew, CL}, title = {Structure of an antifreeze polypeptide precursor from the sea raven, Hemitripterus americanus.}, journal = {The Journal of biological chemistry}, volume = {261}, number = {33}, pages = {15690-15695}, pmid = {3782083}, issn = {0021-9258}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Antifreeze Proteins ; Base Sequence ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid ; DNA/genetics ; DNA, Recombinant ; Fishes/*blood ; Glycoproteins/*blood/genetics ; Molecular Weight ; Nucleic Acid Hybridization ; Protein Conformation ; Protein Precursors/*blood ; }, abstract = {The cystine-rich antifreeze polypeptides (AFP) from sea raven were fractionated by reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography into several components, with SR2 (Mr 17,000) as the major AFP. Sea raven AFP cDNA clones were isolated from a liver cDNA library using a synthetic oligonucleotide, and the identity of one of the clones, C2-1, was confirmed by hybridization selection and cell-free translation. C2-1 encodes a pre-AFP of 195 amino acids with no evidence of any profragments. Comparison of the deduced amino acid sequence with partial peptide sequences from SR2 showed substitutions in at least four amino acid positions, suggesting that C2-1 cDNA codes for a minor component. Both the primary and the predicted secondary structures of sea raven AFP are completely different from those of other fish AFP. This further confirms that sea raven AFP belongs to a different class of antifreezes. The high frequency of reverse turns and the presence of paired hydrophilic amino acids in these structures are striking features of the protein and may contribute to their antifreeze action.}, }
@article {pmid3095918, year = {1986}, author = {Meier, C and Reulecke, M and Kesselring, J and König, MP and Pfaundler, S and Galeazzi, RL and Mumenthaler, M}, title = {[Polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy and skin changes in a case of solitary myeloma].}, journal = {Schweizerische medizinische Wochenschrift}, volume = {116}, number = {39}, pages = {1326-1331}, pmid = {3095918}, issn = {0036-7672}, mesh = {Adult ; Endocrine System Diseases/diagnosis/*etiology/pathology ; Female ; Hepatomegaly/diagnosis/*etiology/pathology ; Humans ; Immunoglobulin lambda-Chains ; Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance/diagnosis/pathology ; Nervous System Diseases/diagnosis/*etiology/pathology ; Pigmentation Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology/pathology ; Plasmacytoma/*complications/diagnosis/pathology ; Splenomegaly/diagnosis/*etiology/pathology ; }, abstract = {The case is reported of a 32-year-old woman with polyneuropathy, organomegaly, edema, endocrinopathy, dark skin and solitary myeloma with monoclonal gammopathy of IgG/lambda type. More than 100 cases of this rare disorder have been observed up to now, mainly in Japan. In recent reviews the terms POEMS-syndrome or Crow-Fukase-syndrome have been used. Local radiotherapy of the myeloma led to lasting regression of symptoms. Studies with immunocytochemistry and immunoelectroblotting revealed specific antibody activity against hypophysis, suggesting that the pathologic monoclonal myeloma antibodies may damage the neuroendocrinic centers in hypothalamus and hypophysis as the primary target. Most of the multisystemic symptoms would thus be explained as secondary alterations.}, }
@article {pmid2427556, year = {1986}, author = {Dahl, D and Crosby, CJ and Bignami, A}, title = {Neurofilament proteins in fish: a study with monoclonal antibodies reacting with mammalian NF 150K and NF 200K.}, journal = {The Journal of comparative neurology}, volume = {250}, number = {3}, pages = {399-402}, doi = {10.1002/cne.902500312}, pmid = {2427556}, issn = {0021-9967}, support = {NS 13034/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Monoclonal ; Biological Evolution ; Cattle ; Dogfish ; Epitopes/analysis ; Fishes/*metabolism ; Goldfish ; Intermediate Filament Proteins/*analysis/immunology ; Neurofilament Proteins ; Spinal Cord/*analysis ; Trout ; }, abstract = {Monoclonal antibodies were obtained upon immunization of mice with chicken brain antigen and with the two high molecular weight neurofilament proteins (NF 150K and NF 200K) isolated from bovine spinal cord by anion exchange chromatography. By the immunoblotting procedure, the antibodies selected for this study reacted with bovine NF 150K and NF 200K. By the same procedure the antibodies reacted with sea raven, goldfish, sea bass, shark, and trout spinal cord extracts. In goldfish and sea raven the antibodies stained a single band at approximately 150 kDa and 200 kDa, respectively. Two bands were stained in the shark, sea bass, and trout. In the shark and sea bass these bands were in the molecular weight range of mammalian NF 150K and NF 200K. In the trout the upper band was approximately 150 kDa and the lower band 130 kDa. Our findings suggest an early origin of NF 150K and NF 200K in vertebrate phylogeny as well as considerable divergence in several species.}, }
@article {pmid3718982, year = {1986}, author = {Yechiel, E and Barenholz, Y}, title = {Cultured heart cell reaggregates: a model for studying relationships between aging and lipid composition.}, journal = {Biochimica et biophysica acta}, volume = {859}, number = {1}, pages = {105-109}, doi = {10.1016/0005-2736(86)90323-8}, pmid = {3718982}, issn = {0006-3002}, support = {HL 17576/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Aging ; Animals ; Cell Aggregation ; Cell Membrane/*physiology ; Cholesterol/physiology ; Creatine Kinase/metabolism ; In Vitro Techniques ; Liposomes ; Membrane Fusion ; Membrane Lipids/*physiology ; Myocardium/*cytology/enzymology ; Phosphatidylcholines/physiology ; Rats ; Sphingomyelins/physiology ; }, abstract = {Cultured heart cells serve as a common model for studying the electronphysiology and pharmacology of intact cells of the myocardium from which they are derived (Sperelakis, N. (1982) in Cardiovascular Toxicology (Van Stel, E.W., ed.), pp. 57-108, Raven Press, New York). In this study, heart cell reaggregates were used for investigating the relationship between lipid composition and aging of the heart cells. Spherical reaggregates were prepared from newborn, 3- and 18-month-old rats, respectively. They were grown for 6 days in culture and then analyzed for their lipid composition and creatine phosphokinase levels. There was an age-related increase in total phospholipids and cholesterol level per unit of cell protein. Due to a relatively greater increase in the cholesterol, the mole ratio of cholesterol to phospholipids increased with animal age. The phospholipid composition was also affected. Thus, sphingomyelin levels increased, while those of phosphatidylcholine decreased; these alterations became much more pronounced with increasing animal age. All these changes could be affected by adding small unilamellar vesicles composed of egg phosphatidylcholine to the growth medium on the 5th day after seeding. Such treatment resulted in a lesser ratio of cholesterol to phospholipid as well as sphingomyelin to phosphatidylcholine, without reducing the total phospholipid per unit protein; the level of creatine phosphokinase was also reduced. This study demonstrated that cultured heart reaggregates can serve as a model for studying aging of the whole animal. Its main advantage is the ability to employ cells from rats of any desired age. Currently this is not possible for cultured heart monolayers.}, }
@article {pmid3792119, year = {1986}, author = {Szymczak, JT}, title = {Daily distribution of sleep states in the jackdaw, Corvus monedula.}, journal = {Chronobiologia}, volume = {13}, number = {3}, pages = {227-235}, pmid = {3792119}, issn = {0390-0037}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Circadian Rhythm ; Electroencephalography ; Sleep Stages/*physiology ; Sleep, REM/physiology ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Polygraphic and behavioral studies of the jackdaws Corvus monedula have revealed a strong influence of the natural day-night cycle on their daily wakefulness-sleep activity. The jackdaws were behaviorally active during the light part of the photoperiod. The daily distribution of slow wave sleep (SWS) was symmetric and that of paradoxical sleep (PS) was asymmetric. The amount of PS was greater in the second half of the night than in the first. Short and intermediate length episodes occurred almost homogeneously throughout the night. The longest sleep episodes clustered toward the middle part of the night and did not occur in the periods following onset of sleep and before the end of sleep.}, }
@article {pmid3591362, year = {1986}, author = {Szymczak, JT}, title = {Sleep pattern in the rook, Corvus frugilegus.}, journal = {Acta physiologica Polonica}, volume = {37}, number = {4-5}, pages = {191-198}, pmid = {3591362}, issn = {0044-6033}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Electroencephalography/veterinary ; Electromyography/veterinary ; Electrooculography/veterinary ; Sleep Stages/*physiology ; Wakefulness/physiology ; }, abstract = {In the rook, Corvus frugilegus, electrographic and behavioural correlates of sleep and wakefulness have been determined under natural lighting conditions. Slow wave sleep (SWS) was characterized by high amplitude slow EEG activity, low neck EMG, and behavioural inactivity. Paradoxical sleep (PS) was characterized by low amplitude fast EEG activity and inconsistent decrease in EMG. PS episodes always commenced with head downward. Several eye movements occurred activity were present. The rook spent in sleep 31.8% of the 24-h period. PS however, eye movements, high tonic neck EMG activity, and behavioural activity were present. The rook spent in sleep 31.8% of the 24-h period. PS constituted 1.8% of total sleep, while the rest of total sleep was occupied by SWS. On the average, episodes of SWS and PS lasted 10.8 min and 24 s respectively. The daily percentage of SWS was highly correlated with the mean episode duration. PS amount was better correlated with the number of episodes than with their mean duration. Our data suggest that over-short period of recovery from surgery and adaptation with implanted electrodes could lead to underestimation of sleep duration in rook.}, }
@article {pmid3014586, year = {1986}, author = {Crow, TJ and Done, DJ}, title = {Age of onset of schizophrenia in siblings: a test of the contagion hypothesis.}, journal = {Psychiatry research}, volume = {18}, number = {2}, pages = {107-117}, doi = {10.1016/0165-1781(86)90023-5}, pmid = {3014586}, issn = {0165-1781}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; DNA Transposable Elements ; Environment ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Retroviridae Infections/complications ; Schizophrenia/*etiology/genetics ; Sibling Relations ; }, abstract = {The possibility that schizophrenia is horizontally transmitted has been assessed in an analysis of age of onset in 264 recorded pairs of siblings with the disease. Age of onset was found to be correlated between siblings, and there was a tendency for the disease to occur at an earlier age in the younger sibling. Three explanations for this finding are considered: horizontal transmission, early detection, and ascertainment bias. An analysis by date of birth differences between siblings gives results consistent with horizontal transmission, but analysis by order of onset of illness (which shows that the age shift is not seen in elder-sibling-ill-first pairs) indicates that ascertainment bias (which arises from a tendency to include an excess of early onsets in younger siblings) is a more cogent explanation of the age shift. Although horizontal transmission is not altogether eliminated, the data suggest that age of onset is determined by genetic or prenatal factors rather than environmental precipitants in postnatal life. The retrovirus/transposon hypothesis (Crow, 1984) can accommodate the findings more readily than the gene-virus interaction hypothesis (Crow, 1983).}, }
@article {pmid3522175, year = {1986}, author = {Keil, W}, title = {[Control of birds in the agricultural area: the rook and carrion crow].}, journal = {DTW. Deutsche tierarztliche Wochenschrift}, volume = {93}, number = {5}, pages = {206}, pmid = {3522175}, issn = {0341-6593}, mesh = {*Agriculture ; Animals ; *Birds ; Germany, West ; Pest Control/*methods ; }, }
@article {pmid3723076, year = {1986}, author = {Farrell, AP}, title = {Cardiovascular responses in the sea raven, Hemitripterus americanus, elicited by vascular compression.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {122}, number = {}, pages = {65-80}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.122.1.65}, pmid = {3723076}, issn = {0022-0949}, mesh = {Animals ; Arteries/physiology ; Blood Pressure ; Cardiac Output ; *Cardiovascular Physiological Phenomena ; Electric Conductivity ; Fishes/*physiology ; Heart Rate/drug effects ; Papaverine/pharmacology ; Pressure ; Propranolol/pharmacology ; Vasodilation/drug effects ; }, abstract = {Increases in the water pressure (PW) around the trunk of the sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus Gmelin) were used to evaluate the effects of vascular compression on cardiovascular variables. Cardiac output (Vb), heart rate (fH) and blood pressures in the ventral aorta, dorsal aorta and ductus Cuvier (Pva, Pda and Pdc, respectively) were measured. A 20 cm H2O increase in PW decreased vascular conductance by up to 25%. During vascular compression, a reflex bradycardia reduced Vb and attenuated the accompanying rise in arterial blood pressure. Pretreatment of the fish with the sympathetic antagonist, propranolol, further attenuated the hypertension by accentuating the reflex bradycardia. Subsequent pretreatment with papaverine, a vascular smooth muscle poison, potentiated these effects and did not reveal any autoregulatory vasodilation in the periphery. Atropine pretreatment completely abolished the reflex bradycardia, indicating that the bradycardia resulted from increased vagal cholinergic tone. The fish also exhibited cardiovascular compensation during the 2 min vascular compression. An accommodation of the barostatic reflex (reduced vagal tone) and a sympathetic tachycardia raised Vb and passively increased vascular conductance. The set point for the barostatic bradycardia was apparently temperature-sensitive.}, }
@article {pmid3013479, year = {1986}, author = {Nagara, H and Doi, H and Iwaki, T and Kuramitsu, M and Tateishi, J}, title = {Intracytoplasmic inclusion of Hirano type in Purkinje cells.}, journal = {Clinical neuropathology}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {131-133}, pmid = {3013479}, issn = {0722-5091}, mesh = {Brain/pathology ; Female ; Humans ; Inclusion Bodies/ultrastructure ; Microscopy, Electron ; Middle Aged ; Paraproteinemias/*pathology ; Pigmentation Disorders/*pathology ; Polyneuropathies/*pathology ; Purkinje Cells/*ultrastructure ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {Intracytoplasmic, rod-shaped and eosinophilic inclusions were recognized only in Purkinje cells in a case of Crow-Fukase syndrome. The ultrastructure of the inclusions was similar to that of the Hirano body and was suspected to have some relation to neurofilaments.}, }
@article {pmid3958200, year = {1986}, author = {Cernovsky, Z}, title = {Masculinity-femininity scale of the MMPI and intellectual functioning of female addicts.}, journal = {Journal of clinical psychology}, volume = {42}, number = {2}, pages = {310-312}, pmid = {3958200}, issn = {0021-9762}, mesh = {Adult ; Alcoholism/psychology ; Female ; *Gender Identity ; Humans ; *Identification, Psychological ; Intelligence ; *MMPI ; Middle Aged ; Substance-Related Disorders/*psychology ; }, abstract = {In a group of 85 female chronic alcoholics and other addicts, scores on the Raven's Matrices and on a multiple-choice version of WAIS Vocabulary were found unrelated to the 13 standard and 4 MMPI research scales and 3 MMPI indices (average profile elevation, average elevations of the neurotic and the psychotic triad) except for the relationship of the raw scores (r = -.32) and the IQ equivalents (r = -.30) on the Vocabulary test to Masculinity-Femininity scores and of IQ equivalents on the Matrices to Barron's Ego Strength scale (r = .32): Women with more extensive vocabulary scored lower on the Masculinity-Femininity scale, and women with better visuo-spatial reasoning skills obtained higher Ego Strength scores.}, }
@article {pmid3786179, year = {1986}, author = {Cracco, A and Angriman, A and Dal Maso, D and Frigiola, A and Menicanti, L and Belloli, GP}, title = {[Cardiosurgical intervention in extracorporeal circulation and intellectual performance in childhood. Study and follow-up of 20 cases].}, journal = {La Pediatria medica e chirurgica : Medical and surgical pediatrics}, volume = {8}, number = {2}, pages = {175-183}, pmid = {3786179}, issn = {0391-5387}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; *Child Development ; *Extracorporeal Circulation ; Female ; Heart Defects, Congenital/*surgery ; Humans ; Male ; *Psychological Tests ; }, abstract = {6 and 12 months before and after surgery in E.C.C., twenty subjects, at the age of development between 6 and 14 years, suffering from congenital heart disease, were subjected to psychometric observations with tests of level and others (wisc, raven, pm 38, rey, bender), in order to analyse the intellective level, specific mental capacities and eventual modifications in the mental and cognitive performances of the patients. No psychometric, statistically meaningful variations were generally noticed during the 3 observations. No meaningful correlations resulted between the duration of E.C.C. and psychometric observations. The patients subjected to the E.C.C. longer than the average of the total group generally didn't show any statistically meaningful variations in the scores of the 3 observations. To sum up the authors think that the experimental group showed and maintained before and after the cardiac surgery, a normal developing and maturative level and anyway that after the follow-up, no changes in the several intellective capacities of the patient were noticed.}, }
@article {pmid3961038, year = {1986}, author = {Kopelman, MD}, title = {Psychiatrists' education in psychology: jackdaw or sponge?.}, journal = {Psychological medicine}, volume = {16}, number = {1}, pages = {13-17}, doi = {10.1017/s003329170000249x}, pmid = {3961038}, issn = {0033-2917}, mesh = {Curriculum ; Humans ; Psychiatry/*education ; Psychology/*education ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid3957026, year = {1986}, author = {Kucher, AN and Kurbatova, OL}, title = {[Population genetics study of the differential fertility in urban populations].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {22}, number = {2}, pages = {304-311}, pmid = {3957026}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Abortion, Habitual/*genetics ; Female ; *Fertility ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Moscow ; Pregnancy ; Selection, Genetic ; *Urban Population ; }, abstract = {In an urban population with widespread birth control practice the distribution of the number of pregnancies, births and abortions was studied in a cohort of women of completed fertility. The mean number of pregnancies per woman was 4.03 +/- 0.08 (sigma = = 2.98); the mean number of births - 1.12 +/- 0.02 (sigma = 0.77). 7.4% of women which had completed their reproductive performance had no pregnancies and 19.5% - no births. The Crow's Index of the Opportunity for Selection and its components connected with differential fertility and differential mortality were estimated. In the population under study two components of selection - selection at the prenatal stages and selection associated with infertility - are shown to be still significant. Such type of selection is exemplified by investigation of couples suffering from repeated spontaneous abortions.}, }
@article {pmid3960998, year = {1986}, author = {Harriman, AE and Berger, RH}, title = {Olfactory acuity in the common raven (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Physiology &amp; behavior}, volume = {36}, number = {2}, pages = {257-262}, doi = {10.1016/0031-9384(86)90013-2}, pmid = {3960998}, issn = {0031-9384}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Cues ; Feeding Behavior/*physiology ; Female ; Food ; Male ; Odorants ; Smell/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The efficacy with which ravens can locate concealed carrion and similar foods has been noted from antiquity. This ability has been claimed in folklore to indicate an acute sense of smell. Contemporary opinion among ornithologists is that the sense of smell is weak at best in passerines, and particularly so in corvids which lack developed olfactory apparatus. Four studies were performed to test whether ravens could find hidden food (fresh ground fish) under conditions where scent was presumed to be the sole cue. The subjects, captive juvenile ravens (five males and three females) capably chose which one in a pair of containers held food buried under 2.0 cm of No. 4 gravel, discovered food concealed under as much as 2.5 cm of gravel, and located as little as 1.0 g of food covered by 1.5 cm of gravel. The several findings are consistent with the possibility that ravens can use olfactory cues to find food.}, }
@article {pmid3944243, year = {1986}, author = {Gainotti, G and D'Erme, P and Villa, G and Caltagirone, C}, title = {Focal brain lesions and intelligence: a study with a new version of Raven's Colored Matrices.}, journal = {Journal of clinical and experimental neuropsychology}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {37-50}, doi = {10.1080/01688638608401295}, pmid = {3944243}, issn = {1380-3395}, mesh = {Aphasia/physiopathology/*psychology ; Female ; Functional Laterality/physiology ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Language Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Spatial Behavior ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Contrasting results have been obtained in previous investigations, which have used the standard version of Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices for studying the effects of localized brain lesion on visual-spatial intelligence. Some of these discrepancies might be due to the fact that specific factors, such as unilateral spatial neglect, could contribute to decreased performance obtained on Raven's test by patients with focal brain lesions. A new set of Colored Matrices, devised to minimize the influence of unilateral spatial neglect without changing the essential features of the original task, was therefore constructed. The test was administered to 76 normal controls, 74 right brain-damaged patients, 87 aphasics, and 61 nonaphasic left brain-damaged patients, in order to study the effect of laterality of lesions and of language impairment on Raven's scores. The results show that, if the influence of unilateral spatial neglect is minimized and Raven's scores are corrected in reference to age, educational level, and lesion size, then: no significant differences are observed between right and left brain-damaged patients; aphasics score worse than nonaphasic left brain-damaged patients; impairment is greater in patients with Wernicke's and Global aphasia (i.e., in patients with severe language comprehension disorders) than in patients classified as Broca's, Anomic, or Conduction aphasia; impairment is greater in patients with semantic-lexical discrimination errors than in patients free from semantic-lexical comprehension disorders.}, }
@article {pmid3823704, year = {1986}, author = {Lapresle, J and Lacroix-Ciaudo, C and Reynès, M and Madoulé, P}, title = {[Crow-Fukase syndrome (POEMS syndrome) and osseous mastocytosis secondary to Castleman's angiofollicular lymphoid hyperplasia].}, journal = {Revue neurologique}, volume = {142}, number = {10}, pages = {731-737}, pmid = {3823704}, issn = {0035-3787}, mesh = {Aged ; Bone Diseases/*complications/pathology ; Bone Marrow/pathology ; Castleman Disease/*complications/pathology ; Endocrine System Diseases/*complications/pathology ; Humans ; Immunoglobulins/*metabolism ; Male ; Mastocytosis/*complications ; Peripheral Nerves/pathology ; Polyradiculoneuropathy/*complications ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {In a case of Crow-Fukase (POEMS) syndrome there was a chronic, progressive, and eventually lethal polyradiculoneuropathy. In addition, adenomegaly, oedema and pleural effusions, gonadic atrophy, serum monoclonal IgA, and skin pigmentation were present. Plain x-rays and CT scan of the pelvis and lower vertebrae showed multiple poorly defined lesions. At postmortem there was no myeloma and a bone mastocytosis was found. In addition, next to T11, there was an abdominal nodule, 2 cm in diameter, with histological characteristics of Castleman's angiofollicular lymphoid hyperplasia. Immunohistochemical studies showed that plasmocytes of this lesion secreted polyclonal immunoglobulins with a high prevalence of IgA. Thus, the primary interest of this case lies in the association of bone mastocytosis with a POEMS syndrome. Also, one single localisation of Castleman angiofollicular lymphoid hyperplasia was found, assumed to be in this case the cause of the POEMS syndrome. Therefore, a minute and benign hyperplasic lesion, which was only discovered at autopsy, secreted the protein responsible for the symptoms and signs, and eventually the patient's death.}, }
@article {pmid3757013, year = {1986}, author = {Boyd, RB and DeVries, AL}, title = {A comparison of anionic sites in the glomerular basement membranes from different classes of fishes.}, journal = {Cell and tissue research}, volume = {245}, number = {3}, pages = {513-517}, pmid = {3757013}, issn = {0302-766X}, mesh = {Animals ; Anions ; Basement Membrane/*ultrastructure ; Binding Sites ; Dogfish ; Ferritins ; Fishes ; Kidney Glomerulus/*ultrastructure ; Microscopy, Electron ; Skates, Fish ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Cationized ferritin was injected into the circulatory system of teleosts, the sea raven and Atlantic eelpout, and into elasmobranchs, the spiny dogfish and the skate, to determine if the glomerular basement membranes (GBM) from these different groups of fishes possess anionic binding sites similar to those present in the GBM of mammals. The distribution of cationized ferritin was the same in all fishes listed. Cationized ferritin was localized only in the GBM and the mesangial matrix. The regular distribution of cationized ferritin within the laminae rarae (approximately 60 nm intervals) was taken as evidence of the presence of anionic binding sites. Cationized ferritin did not bind to the glomerular capillary endothelium, nor was any of it localized at the base of the slit diaphragms of the foot processes of the podocytes. The distribution of binding sites in the GBM of these fishes is similar to that in another teleost, the winter flounder, and in a cyclostome, the hagfish.}, }
@article {pmid3735180, year = {1986}, author = {Waal-Manning, HJ and Knight, RG and Spears, GF and Paulin, JM}, title = {The relationship between blood pressure and personality in a large unselected adult sample.}, journal = {Journal of psychosomatic research}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {361-368}, doi = {10.1016/0022-3999(86)90014-0}, pmid = {3735180}, issn = {0022-3999}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; *Blood Pressure ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Obesity/physiopathology ; *Personality ; }, abstract = {As part of a general health survey of a small New Zealand town, the Crow-Crisp Experiential Index, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, a shortened version of the Hostility and Direction of Hostility Questionnaire, and the Zung Self-rating Depression Scale were administered to 1173 subjects over the age of 15. Blood pressure was moderately correlated with age and Quetelet's Index, a measure of obesity. Low but significant correlations were found between Somatic Anxiety, Hysteria, and the Urge to Act-out Hostility scale. However, when effects of age were controlled for, in a series of multiple regression analyses, the correlations with psychometric test scores were no longer significant. This study confirms several previous reports that neuroticism, anxiety, depression, and hostility are of little significant in predicting levels of blood pressure in the general population.}, }
@article {pmid3733545, year = {1986}, author = {Hirokawa, N}, title = {Cytoskeletal architecture of the chicken hair cells revealed with the quick-freeze, deep-etch technique.}, journal = {Hearing research}, volume = {22}, number = {}, pages = {41-54}, doi = {10.1016/0378-5955(86)90076-6}, pmid = {3733545}, issn = {0378-5955}, mesh = {Actin Cytoskeleton/ultrastructure ; Actins/metabolism ; Animals ; Chickens ; Cytoskeleton/ultrastructure ; Freeze Etching ; Mechanoreceptors/*ultrastructure ; Microscopy, Electron ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Microtubules/ultrastructure ; Microvilli/ultrastructure ; Saccule and Utricle/*innervation ; }, abstract = {Replicas of the apical surface of hair cells of the inner ear (vestibular organ) were examined after quick-freeze, deep-etch and rotary shadowing. With this technique we demonstrate how actin filaments are organized and associated with the plasma membrane in the stereocilia and cuticular plate as well as inside the junctional complex. In each stereocilium there are thread-like connectors running from the actin filament bundle to the limiting membrane. Many of the actin filaments in the cuticular plate are connected to the apical cell membrane by tiny branched connecting units like a 'crow's foot'. Where these 'feet' contact the membrane there is a small swelling. These branched 'feet' extend mainly from the ends of the actin filaments but some connect the lateral surfaces of the actin filaments as well. Actin filaments in the cuticular plate are also connected to each other by finer filaments, 3 nm in thickness and 74 +/- 14 nm in length. These 3 nm filaments (which measure 4 nm in replicas) connect actin filaments, not only of the same polarity, but of opposite polarities as documented by examining replicas of the cuticular plate which had been decorated with subfragment 1 (S1) of myosin. At the apicolateral margins of the cell we find two populations of actin filaments, one just beneath the tight junction as a network, the other at the level of the intermediate junction as a ring. The latter is composed of actin filaments that run parallel to each other; adjacent filaments often show opposite polarities, as evidenced by S1 decoration. Because of the polarity of the filaments this ring may be a 'contractile' ring.}, }
@article {pmid3715849, year = {1986}, author = {Loupal, G and Rabitsch, A}, title = {[Squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus in a free-living rook].}, journal = {Tierarztliche Praxis}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {143-146}, pmid = {3715849}, issn = {0303-6286}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bird Diseases/pathology ; Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/pathology/*veterinary ; Esophageal Neoplasms/pathology/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {In a free living rook (Corvus frugilegus) a well differentiated squamous cell carcinoma without keratinization arising from the oesophageal mucosa was found. This tumour had grown around the right main bronchus and so caused marked respiratory distress.}, }
@article {pmid3705848, year = {1986}, author = {Mastiukova, EM and Pevzner, MS and Peresleni, LI}, title = {[Diagnosis and clinical picture of oligophrenia among students with cerebral palsy].}, journal = {Zhurnal nevropatologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova (Moscow, Russia : 1952)}, volume = {86}, number = {3}, pages = {386-389}, pmid = {3705848}, issn = {0044-4588}, mesh = {Cerebral Palsy/*complications ; Child ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/complications/*diagnosis ; Intelligence Tests ; }, abstract = {A clinico-psychological examination covered 112 children aged 7-9 years with cerebral paralysis. The authors consider the diagnosis of intellectual disorders using traditional clinico-psychological techniques and an original technique of prediction ("Ugadaika" and Raven's matrices). the latter two methods, when combined with clinical examination, were shown to be highly informative in diagnosing oligophrenia in junior schoolchildren. Characteristics of oligophrenia in different forms of infantile cerebral paralysis are described.}, }
@article {pmid3699635, year = {1986}, author = {Slabý, O}, title = {A few morphological features of interest in development of the nasal apparatus of the magpie (Pica pica L.). Morphogenesis and evolutionary morphology of the nasal capsule, the nasal epithelial tube and the organ of Jacobson in sauropsida. XVII.}, journal = {Folia morphologica}, volume = {34}, number = {1}, pages = {26-35}, pmid = {3699635}, issn = {0015-5640}, mesh = {Animals ; *Biological Evolution ; Birds/*embryology ; Central Nervous System/*embryology ; Nasal Cavity/*embryology ; Nasal Septum/*embryology ; Olfactory Pathways/*embryology ; }, }
@article {pmid3557641, year = {1986}, author = {North, AJ and Ulatowska, HK and Macaluso-Haynes, S and Bell, H}, title = {Discourse performance in older adults.}, journal = {International journal of aging &amp; human development}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {267-283}, doi = {10.2190/BPF0-2BWD-BGNQ-HWCW}, pmid = {3557641}, issn = {0091-4150}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Aged ; *Aging ; Cognition ; Female ; Humans ; *Language ; Mental Recall ; Middle Aged ; Speech ; }, abstract = {Thirty-three elderly women, whose mean age was 76.2 years, and eighteen middle-aged women, whose mean age was 45.6 years, were assessed on a number of linguistic discourse tasks. The women were well educated, and most of them were or had been engaged in the teaching profession. Each woman was given narrative discourse tasks involving recall of stories, summarizing stories, giving the morals of the stories, procedural discourse tasks, interview to assess cognitive functioning and communicative abilities, and the following cognitive tests: Block Design, Symbol-Digit, Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices, and Word Fluency. The findings were that the older group generally performed more poorly than did the middle-aged group on most of the discourse tasks and cognitive tests. Within the older group, measures of quality of discourse were generally negatively related to age and positively related to scores on cognitive tests.}, }
@article {pmid3530358, year = {1986}, author = {Beardsley, EH}, title = {Good-bye to Jim Crow: the desegregation of Southern hospitals, 1945-70.}, journal = {Bulletin of the history of medicine}, volume = {60}, number = {3}, pages = {367-386}, pmid = {3530358}, issn = {0007-5140}, mesh = {Black or African American ; History, 20th Century ; Hospitals/*history ; Humans ; *Prejudice ; United States ; White People ; }, }
@article {pmid3099070, year = {1986}, author = {Watts, RW and Spellacy, E and Adams, JH}, title = {Neuropathological and clinical correlations in Hurler disease.}, journal = {Journal of inherited metabolic disease}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {261-272}, pmid = {3099070}, issn = {0141-8955}, mesh = {Brain/*pathology ; Cerebellum/pathology ; Cerebral Cortex/pathology ; Cerebral Ventricles/pathology ; Cerebrospinal Fluid Shunts ; Child ; Female ; Glycoside Hydrolases/*deficiency ; Humans ; Hydrocephalus/pathology ; Iduronidase/*deficiency ; Meninges/pathology ; Microscopy, Electron ; Mucopolysaccharidosis I/diagnosis/genetics/*pathology ; Neurons/ultrastructure ; Organ Size ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {We report studies on two patients (1 and 2) with Hurler disease. They both had all of the non-neurological features of Hurler disease to a similar and extreme degree and similar signs of brain damage on computed tomography. However, intellectual function was unusually well-preserved in patient 1, but seriously and typically impaired in patient 2. The reason for this discrepancy has been investigated by reference to the neuropathological findings, the results of alpha-L-iduronidase assays using different substrates and comparisons to other cases (patients 3 and 4). We suggest that patient 1 is an unusual variant of the disease who may have had a very low residual alpha-L-iduronidase activity in neuronal cells only, and that this could not be demonstrated by either enzyme assays on whole brain using the 4-methylumbelliferyliduronide substrate (Crow et al., 1983) or in studies on fibroblast lysates using a radioactive disaccharide substrate.}, }
@article {pmid3085338, year = {1986}, author = {Sano, M and Terasaki, T and Koyama, A and Narita, M and Tojo, S}, title = {Glomerular lesions associated with the Crow-Fukase syndrome.}, journal = {Virchows Archiv. A, Pathological anatomy and histopathology}, volume = {409}, number = {1}, pages = {3-9}, pmid = {3085338}, issn = {0174-7398}, mesh = {Adult ; Dysgammaglobulinemia/pathology ; Edema/*pathology ; Endocrine System Diseases/*pathology ; Glomerular Mesangium/pathology ; Humans ; Kidney Diseases/*pathology ; Kidney Glomerulus/*pathology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Nervous System Diseases/*pathology ; Skin Diseases/*pathology ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {Three cases of the Crow-Fukase syndrome without radiographic changes of multiple myeloma are reported, with special reference to the glomerular changes seen. Proteinuria was detected in one case, although decreased renal function was observed in all (GFR: 41.0, 62.0, 74.1 ml/min respectively) at the time of renal biopsy. Glomerular changes were similar in all three cases. The main characteristic changes were mesangial proliferation and thickening of the glomerular capillary walls. Pictures by light microscopy were therefore similar to that of MPGN. On electron microscopy, the thickened capillary walls showed circumferential mesangial interposition and the subendothelial zone was electron-lucent and contained small dense granules or flocculent deposits. By immunofluorescent microscopy, no immunoglobulins, complement components or light chain were detected in the glomeruli except in one case.}, }
@article {pmid4078185, year = {1985}, author = {Tzuriel, D and Klein, PS}, title = {The assessment of analogical thinking modifiability among regular, special education, disadvantaged, and mentally retarded children.}, journal = {Journal of abnormal child psychology}, volume = {13}, number = {4}, pages = {539-552}, pmid = {4078185}, issn = {0091-0627}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Color Perception ; *Concept Formation ; *Education of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Problem Solving ; Prognosis ; *Psychological Tests ; Size Perception ; Socioeconomic Factors ; *Thinking ; }, abstract = {The objectives of the current study were (a) to develop a measure of children's analogical thinking modifiability (CATM) based on the Feuerstein, Rand, and Hoffman (1979) theory of dynamic assessment of cognitive modifiability, (b) to compare the performance of groups assumed to be differentially modified by intervention, (c) to compare CATM performance with performance on a conventional test, and (d) to study qualitative changes after a learning process. Subjects were disadvantaged, regular, and special education kindergarten children (N = 140), and mentally retarded children (N = 20). The CATM was administered together with the Ravens Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) in a balanced order. Disadvantaged and regular children achieved higher gain scores than other groups in both none-or-all and partial credit methods (p less than .01). The MR and the special education groups showed small gains according to the none-or-all credit method; however, according to the partial credit method, the MR group showed high gains and the special education group a performance decrease. Performance scores on the CATM were higher than on the RCPM, especially in comparison to the B8-B12 items--differences reach a peak of 61% and 67% for the disadvantaged and regular groups, respectively. Qualitative analysis indicated that form mistakes were most resistant to change, whereas color mistakes were most easy to modify. Results were explained within Feuerstein's theoretical framework of cognitive modifiability. Impaired cognitive functions as well as analytic versus synthetic processes were suggested to explain group differences.}, }
@article {pmid2867743, year = {1985}, author = {Katsumata, M and Gupta, C and Goldman, AS}, title = {Glucocorticoid receptor IB: mediator of anti-inflammatory and teratogenic functions of both glucocorticoids and phenytoin.}, journal = {Archives of biochemistry and biophysics}, volume = {243}, number = {2}, pages = {385-395}, doi = {10.1016/0003-9861(85)90515-6}, pmid = {2867743}, issn = {0003-9861}, mesh = {Animals ; *Anti-Inflammatory Agents ; Arachidonic Acid ; Arachidonic Acids/metabolism ; Chromatography, Gel ; Chromatography, Ion Exchange ; Cytosol/metabolism ; Dexamethasone/metabolism ; Enzyme Induction/drug effects ; Female ; Glucocorticoids/*pharmacology/toxicity ; Liver/metabolism ; Liver Neoplasms, Experimental/metabolism ; Lung/metabolism ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred A ; Phenytoin/*metabolism/pharmacology/toxicity ; Radioligand Assay ; Receptors, Glucocorticoid/classification/*physiology ; *Teratogens ; Thymus Gland/metabolism ; Tyrosine Transaminase/biosynthesis ; }, abstract = {We studied the glucocorticoid receptor complexes of pulmonary and thymic cytosols of female A/J and CD-1 mice and of hepatoma G2 cells by two column-chromatographic systems, using both [3H]dexamethasone (DEX) and [3H]phenytoin (DPH) as ligands. Three DNA-cellulose adsorbable [3H]DEX-receptor complexes were separated in each system. Molecular sieving gave a 7-, a 5.4-, and a 3.5-nm complex (Stokes radii), and DEAE-Sephadex A-50 chromatography gave a complex eluting in the wash, one at 0.14 M KCl, and one at 0.20 M KCl by a KCl gradient. DPH blocked the binding of the 7- and 3.5-nm, wash, and 0.14 M KCl [3H]DEX complexes. Only two DNA-cellulose adsorbable [3H]DPH complexes, each blocked by DEX, were obtained in each system: a 7- and a 3.5-nm, a wash, and a 0.14 M KCl complex. Thus, there is a common receptor for both DPH and DEX. This receptor has two properties which distinguish it from the 5.4-nm DEX-specific receptor: (i) it binds with a variety of steroids other than glucocorticoids and DPH, and (ii) it rebinds new [3H]DEX or [3H]DPH after loss of ligand during chromatographic separation. These results indicate that DPH binds to receptor IB and not to receptor II of Litwack. [G. Litwack, 1976, in Glutathion: Metabolism and Function (Arias, I.M., and Jakoby, W.B., eds.), pp. 285-299, Raven Press, New York]. We have also found that hepatoma G2 cells have only receptor II. DPH affects neither the induction of tyrosine aminotransferase by DEX nor the basal level of this enzyme in these cells. Moreover, neither DEX nor DPH inhibits the release of [3H]arachidonic acid prelabeled in these cells, as they do in thymocytes which have the common receptor. Thus, it appears that glucocorticoid receptor IB binds DEX and DPH as glucocorticoid agonists mediating the anti-inflammatory and teratogenic action of these drugs, while receptor II apparently is responsible for the induction of tyrosine aminotransferase by DEX.}, }
@article {pmid2419033, year = {1985}, author = {Villardita, C}, title = {Raven's colored Progressive Matrices and intellectual impairment in patients with focal brain damage.}, journal = {Cortex; a journal devoted to the study of the nervous system and behavior}, volume = {21}, number = {4}, pages = {627-634}, doi = {10.1016/s0010-9452(58)80010-6}, pmid = {2419033}, issn = {0010-9452}, mesh = {Aged ; Aphasia/diagnosis ; Brain Damage, Chronic/*diagnosis ; Cerebral Infarction/diagnosis ; Color Perception ; Discrimination Learning ; *Dominance, Cerebral ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Middle Aged ; }, abstract = {To assess the validity of Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) as a measure of intellectual impairment after focal brain damage, we compared the performance of 24 right brain-damaged patients, 24 left brain-damaged patients (10 non-aphasic and 15 aphasic) and 20 controls on the RCPM. In addition to the total, we analyzed the scores obtained on each of the three sets in which the 36 items of the test could be categorized on the grounds of the cognitive ability mainly involved for their solution. The first set, which calls for the identification of sameness, posed special problems to RBD patients. The second set, which involves the principle of symmetry, was selectively failed by aphasic patients. The third set, which is more demanding in terms of analogical and conceptual thinking, was poorly performed by left brain-damaged patients, aphasics as well as non-aphasics. The implications of these findings for the relation of focalized brain damage to intelligence is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid4057512, year = {1985}, author = {Markowitz, LE and Hynes, NA and de la Cruz, P and Campos, E and Barbaree, JM and Plikaytis, BD and Mosier, D and Kaufmann, AF}, title = {Tick-borne tularemia. An outbreak of lymphadenopathy in children.}, journal = {JAMA}, volume = {254}, number = {20}, pages = {2922-2925}, doi = {10.1001/jama.254.20.2922}, pmid = {4057512}, issn = {0098-7484}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Animals ; Antibodies, Bacterial/analysis ; *Arachnid Vectors ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Disease Outbreaks ; Dogs ; Epidemiologic Methods ; Francisella tularensis/immunology ; Humans ; Indians, North American ; Lymphatic Diseases/epidemiology/*etiology ; South Dakota ; *Ticks ; Tularemia/*epidemiology ; }, abstract = {Between June 1 and July 15, 1984, twenty persons with glandular tularemia were identified on the Lower Brule and Crow Creek Indian reservations in South Dakota. The median age of the patients was 6 years (range, 2 to 20 years). The clinical illness was mild, consisting of fever, headache, and lymphadenopathy. All lymphadenopathy was in the head and neck area. Dermacentor variabilis ticks were identified as the vector. Although the mild clinical illness suggested Francisella tularensis, type B, was the agent, both type A and type B strains of F tularensis were isolated from ticks collected from dogs in the area. Tularemia is generally thought to be a severe systemic illness in North America. This outbreak illustrates that it can be a mild disease and that both type A and type B strains can be tick-borne and coexist in the same ecosystem.}, }
@article {pmid4091667, year = {1985}, author = {Motavkin, PA and Bozhko, GG}, title = {[Adrenergic neuromuscular junctions in the cerebral arteries of birds].}, journal = {Arkhiv anatomii, gistologii i embriologii}, volume = {89}, number = {11}, pages = {26-34}, pmid = {4091667}, issn = {0004-1947}, mesh = {Adrenergic Fibers/metabolism/*ultrastructure ; Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Cerebral Arteries/*innervation/metabolism/ultrastructure ; Chickens ; Columbidae ; Ducks ; Histocytochemistry ; Microscopy, Electron ; Neuromuscular Junction/metabolism/*ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {By means of the histochemical and electron microscopical methods, adrenergic innervation of the middle cerebral artery and its branches have been investigated in three sparrows (Passer montanus), blue rock pigeons (Columba livia), hens (Gallus domestica), hazel-grouses (Tetrastes bonasia), large billed crows (Corvus levaillantii), ducks (Anas domestica) and slaty backed gulls (Larus schistisagus). Neuromuscular connections in all the birds investigated have similar organizational features. Some adrenergic effectors are situated 700 nm from the external layer of myocytes in the vascular middle tunic, and they perform the distant transmission. Other effectors are at the distance of 40-80 nm from myocytes, and they are built according to the synaptic type. They produce certain action upon single muscle cells, thus performing local transmission. For the neuromuscular connections of the cerebral vessels in the birds, presence of multiaxonal complexes is specific. Axons of the complex innervate groups of muscle cells and they are at the distance of 50-270 nm from their plasmic membranes. Perhaps, they combine the local and distant means of transmission.}, }
@article {pmid2417314, year = {1985}, author = {Blus, LJ and Henny, CJ and Krynitsky, AJ}, title = {The effects of heptachlor and lindane on birds, Columbia Basin, Oregon and Washington, 1976-1981.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {46}, number = {}, pages = {73-81}, doi = {10.1016/0048-9697(85)90284-0}, pmid = {2417314}, issn = {0048-9697}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Brain Chemistry ; Heptachlor/analysis/*poisoning ; Hexachlorocyclohexane/analysis/*poisoning ; Oregon ; Ovum/analysis ; Species Specificity ; Time Factors ; Washington ; }, abstract = {The effects of heptachlor seed treatments on birds in the vicinity of the Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge, Oregon and Washington, were investigated from 1978 to 1981. An egg was collected from each of 60 nests representing six species. Heptachlor epoxide (HE) residues were detected in 35 eggs and were particularly high (8-13 micrograms g-1) in a few eggs of the black-billed magpie, mallard, and ring-necked pheasant. These residues were within the range that induced reproductive problems in other species in the area. Diagnostically lethal residue levels (greater than or equal to 9 micrograms g-1) of HE were detected in the brains of nine birds (four species). Most of the avifauna in the area contained residues of HE and related compounds. Lindane, the replacement chemical for heptachlor, did not produce adverse effects in birds, and residues were not detected in either their eggs or brains.}, }
@article {pmid3851347, year = {1985}, author = {Meeajun, Y and Spooner, B and Gilbert, P}, title = {Jay walking in the community.}, journal = {Nursing times}, volume = {80}, number = {43}, pages = {28-30}, pmid = {3851347}, issn = {0954-7762}, mesh = {Community Health Nursing/*education ; Curriculum ; England ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*nursing ; Psychiatric Nursing/*education ; }, }
@article {pmid4062765, year = {1985}, author = {Green, RG and Morgan, DR}, title = {The effects of mild hypoxia on a logical reasoning task.}, journal = {Aviation, space, and environmental medicine}, volume = {56}, number = {10}, pages = {1004-1008}, pmid = {4062765}, issn = {0095-6562}, mesh = {Altitude ; Atmospheric Pressure ; Humans ; Hypoxia/*physiopathology ; *Logic ; *Task Performance and Analysis ; }, abstract = {In an attempt to replicate the findings of Crow and Kelman (1969) and Denison et al. (1966), which suggest that the performance of novel tasks can be impaired at altitudes below 3,050 m, 150 subjects were divided into five independent groups and their performance tested on a logical reasoning task. One group was tested at ground level in a lecture room; the remaining groups were tested in a decompression chamber, one at 305 m, one at 2,440 m, one at 3,050 m and one at 3,660 m. Significant differences were identified between the 'lecture room' and 'chamber' groups in both speed of work and error rate (p less than 0.05); this finding is interpreted as the effect of apprehension on the naive subjects. A significant difference was found between the group tested at 3660 m and the remaining groups for error rate (p less than 0.05); this finding is interpreted as the effect of apprehension on the naive subjects. A significant difference was found between the group tested at 3660 m and the remaining groups for error rate (p less than 0.05) but not for speed of work. However, no effect of altitude on the way in which the task was learned could be demonstrated.}, }
@article {pmid4085406, year = {1985}, author = {Mathieu, P and Lemoine, P and Szestak, M and Greffe, J and Gros, N and Echassoux, C}, title = {Homovanillic acid (HVA) urinary excretion and day/night rhythm of chronic schizophrenic patients. Preliminary observations.}, journal = {L'Encephale}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {199-202}, pmid = {4085406}, issn = {0013-7006}, mesh = {Adult ; Biological Clocks ; Chronic Disease ; Female ; Homovanillic Acid/*urine ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Schizophrenia/*physiopathology/urine ; Schizophrenia, Paranoid/physiopathology/urine ; }, abstract = {The authors report, as compared to healthy subjects, a higher daily excretion and a higher urinary variations of homovanillic acid (HVA) for schizophrenic chronic paranoid patients (patients with positive symptomatology predominating, CROW,s type I). Inversely, a lower HVA excretion and probably an inversion of the circadian rhythm of urinary HVA were found for schizophrenic chronic undifferentiated patients (patients with negative symptomatology predominating, CROW's type II). These results have to be confirmed by the study of a greater number of patients and the measure, for comparison among themselves, of other precursors and metabolites of monoamines.}, }
@article {pmid4078442, year = {1985}, author = {Nakanishi, T}, title = {[Crow-Fukase syndrome].}, journal = {Nihon Naika Gakkai zasshi. The Journal of the Japanese Society of Internal Medicine}, volume = {74}, number = {9}, pages = {1205-1209}, pmid = {4078442}, issn = {0021-5384}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Endocrine System Diseases/complications/epidemiology ; Female ; Humans ; Japan ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Multiple Myeloma/complications ; Paraproteinemias/complications/*epidemiology ; Polyneuropathies/complications/*epidemiology ; Syndrome ; }, }
@article {pmid4037049, year = {1985}, author = {Katz, N}, title = {Occupational therapy's domain of concern: reconsidered.}, journal = {The American journal of occupational therapy : official publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association}, volume = {39}, number = {8}, pages = {518-524}, doi = {10.5014/ajot.39.8.518}, pmid = {4037049}, issn = {0272-9490}, mesh = {Culture ; Models, Theoretical ; *Occupational Therapy ; Professional Practice ; Time ; }, abstract = {This paper focuses on the domain of concern part of a professional model presented by Mosey in her book Occupational Therapy: Configuration of a Profession (Raven, 1981). Based on additional review of the literature, I suggest two principal alterations. A change in core versus parameter. "Human occupation" replaces "occupational performance" and is presented as the core of the domain of concern because this is the focus of occupational therapy practice; the "performance components" defined here as "competence components" actually serve as a parameter of practice. A reconceptualization of two parameters: "time" and "cultural environment." Time should be considered a separate parameter, including categories of time practice, balance of activities over time, and time perspective. Cultural environment is perceived as a parameter that is composed of four categories: the symbolic, social, physical, and natural environments. This paper emphasizes the interrelatedness of all parts of the model and points out the qualitative differences between the parameters.}, }
@article {pmid4075641, year = {1985}, author = {Nakahara, K and Hoketsu, Y and Sano, Y and Shinmyozu, K and Igata, A}, title = {[Improvement of parameters concerning blood coagulation and complement systems in a case of Crow-Fukase syndrome].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {25}, number = {7}, pages = {755-759}, pmid = {4075641}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Blood Coagulation Factors/*analysis ; Complement System Proteins/*analysis ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Paraproteinemias/*blood/immunology ; Polyneuropathies/blood/immunology ; Skin Pigmentation ; Syndrome ; }, }
@article {pmid4015970, year = {1985}, author = {Kligman, AM and Zheng, P and Lavker, RM}, title = {The anatomy and pathogenesis of wrinkles.}, journal = {The British journal of dermatology}, volume = {113}, number = {1}, pages = {37-42}, doi = {10.1111/j.1365-2133.1985.tb02042.x}, pmid = {4015970}, issn = {0007-0963}, mesh = {Aged ; *Aging ; Elastic Tissue/ultrastructure ; Epidermis/ultrastructure ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Middle Aged ; Skin/*ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {The anatomy of linear wrinkles ("crow's feet' and temporal frown lines), fine criss-cross wrinkles of the face and wrinkling of the general body surface of elderly persons, was studied by light and scanning electron microscopy. No histological features distinguished the various wrinkles from surrounding skin. It was concluded that the wrinkle is a configuration change, like the grooves worn into an old glove, without specific structural alterations at the histological level. As regards pathogenesis, the common setting was found to be deterioration of the elastic tissue network. The skin becomes looser, excessive, and loses the ability to snap back to its original state after being deformed.}, }
@article {pmid4051758, year = {1985}, author = {Motavkin, PA and Varaksin, AA}, title = {[Small granule-containing cells of the central nervous system of the bivalve mollusk Patinopectin yessoensis (Jay)].}, journal = {Arkhiv anatomii, gistologii i embriologii}, volume = {88}, number = {6}, pages = {13-16}, pmid = {4051758}, issn = {0004-1947}, mesh = {Animals ; Cytoplasmic Granules/ultrastructure ; Ganglia/*cytology ; Microscopy, Electron ; Mollusca/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Neurons/cytology/ultrastructure ; Organoids/ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {In the CNS of the Patinopecten yessoensis (Jay) two types of cells have been revealed. The I type cells are typical unipolar neurons with a developed granular endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi compex, with a nucleus containing small amount of chromatin. They possess elementary peptidergic granules. The II type cells have in their cytoplasm and processes a large amount of electron-opague granules, specific for adrenergic systems. The nucleus is rich in clustered chromatin, the granular endoplasmic reticulum is poorly developed, cytosomes are absent. According to their ultrastructural organization the latter correspond to small granular cells of the mammalian autonomic nervous system.}, }
@article {pmid2996815, year = {1985}, author = {Ogawa, M and Kawamata, T and Toyama, I and Ohnishi, A}, title = {[A case report of Crow-Fukase syndrome with markedly retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy].}, journal = {Rinsho shinkeigaku = Clinical neurology}, volume = {25}, number = {6}, pages = {716-720}, pmid = {2996815}, issn = {0009-918X}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Lymph Nodes/pathology ; Lymphatic Diseases/*complications ; Middle Aged ; Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/*etiology ; Retroperitoneal Space ; Syndrome ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, }
@article {pmid4010218, year = {1985}, author = {Holldack, J and Kalff, R and Schindler, H and Rappen, U and Havers, W}, title = {[Neurologic and psychosocial disorders in children with brain tumors].}, journal = {Klinische Padiatrie}, volume = {197}, number = {3}, pages = {188-191}, doi = {10.1055/s-2008-1033966}, pmid = {4010218}, issn = {0300-8630}, mesh = {*Adaptation, Psychological ; Adolescent ; Brain Damage, Chronic/psychology ; Brain Neoplasms/*psychology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Learning Disabilities/psychology ; Male ; Neurocognitive Disorders/*psychology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychomotor Performance ; }, abstract = {We studied 15 tumor-free patients, that had already finished treatment at the university-hospital Essen. Beside from a neurological check-up our complete assessment included the following tests: CMM (Columbia Mental Maturity Scale), BM and CM (Raven Test), PPVT (Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test), BA (Following Directions), KP (Dotting), d2, HAWIK-Test (Mathematical part), LOS (Lincoln Oseretzky Motor Development Scale) and GFT (Göttinger Formreproduktionstest). A half structured interview of parents was performed, too. All, but two patients, had neurological disorders of different degrees. All these 13 patients had signs of ataxia. For the intelligence- and development-tests (CMM, BA, BM, CM and PPVT) the results for all patients were better than the 50th percentile, for the KP and LOS-test worse (40-47%). A diminished ability for concentration and slowness shows the d2-reached only a rate of 22 percent. The results of the HAWIK-test shows a test-age-equivalent, which is 3,4 years above the actual age. From the results of the GFT you can conclude, that these disorders are caused by brain damage. Parents mentioned during the interviews abnormalities in behaviour, interaction-problems between siblings and inadequate emotional reactions. For all these reasons we want to point out, that for an overall assessment of these patients and there families a well-planed therapeutical procedure including rehabilitive measures is necessary for diminishing the described disturbances as far as possible.}, }
@article {pmid3914002, year = {1985}, author = {Perea, G and Sánchez, R and Yong, M}, title = {[Comparison of growth rate of Helisoma duryi (Wetherby, 1879) and Helisoma scalare (Jay, 1839) (Mollusca: Planorbidae)].}, journal = {Revista cubana de medicina tropical}, volume = {37}, number = {2}, pages = {150-154}, pmid = {3914002}, issn = {0375-0760}, mesh = {Animals ; Cuba ; *Disease Vectors ; Snails/classification/*growth &amp; development ; }, }
@article {pmid3985774, year = {1985}, author = {Wilmot, CB and Cope, DN and Hall, KM and Acker, M}, title = {Occult head injury: its incidence in spinal cord injury.}, journal = {Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation}, volume = {66}, number = {4}, pages = {227-231}, doi = {10.1016/0003-9993(85)90148-0}, pmid = {3985774}, issn = {0003-9993}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Brain Injuries/*complications ; Child ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/etiology ; Craniocerebral Trauma/*complications ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Psychological Tests ; Spinal Cord Injuries/*complications ; }, abstract = {This study investigated the suspicion that a significant proportion of individuals having spinal cord injury (SCI) also sustain a concomitant undiagnosed occult head injury during the trauma accident. The criteria for high risk of head injury included the following: (1) quadriplegia with high energy deceleration accident, (2) loss of consciousness at time of injury, (3) brainstem or cortical neurologic indicators, or (4) respiratory support required at time of injury. In this study, 67 patients admitted to the rehabilitation unit were given a neuropsychologic evaluation a median of 48 days after injury. Motor free scales used were the Galveston Orientation and Amnesia Test (GOAT), Quick Test, Raven Progressive matrices, serial 7s, Shipley Hartford, Stroop Color/Word Interference, and the Wechsler Memory Scale Associate Learning Tests. Forty-three of the 67 patients (64%) scored mildly to profoundly impaired on the test battery. Evidence of poor premorbid academic history was present in 19 (44%) of those with impaired performance on the neurologic evaluation and in only three (13%) of those scoring unimpaired. Consequently, 56% (24/43) of the impaired had no previous record of scholastic difficulties, presumably acquiring cognitive impairment at the time of injury. The implications of this high incidence of impaired cognitive functioning for treatment of individuals with SCI are significant.}, }
@article {pmid3891053, year = {1985}, author = {Lesher, RJ and Casiano-Colon, AE}, title = {Comparison of fluorescent antibody, bacitracin susceptibility, latex agglutination, coagglutination, and API 20S for identifying group A streptococci.}, journal = {Canadian journal of microbiology}, volume = {31}, number = {4}, pages = {335-338}, doi = {10.1139/m85-064}, pmid = {3891053}, issn = {0008-4166}, mesh = {Agglutination Tests ; Bacitracin/pharmacology ; Fluorescent Antibody Technique ; Latex Fixation Tests ; Serotyping ; Streptococcus pyogenes/*classification/drug effects ; }, abstract = {A total of 200 beta-hemolytic streptococci, isolated from clinical specimens submitted to our laboratory, were identified as group A versus non-A using the fluorescent antibody technique (FA), bacitracin susceptibility (BBL, Difco, and Raven disks), SeroSTAT, Streptex, Phadebact, and the API 20S system. Of the 122 group A isolates, all methods except SeroSTAT and Phadebact yielded 92-99% agreement when compared with the Lancefield precipitin test. Phadebact yielded an 84% agreement and SeroSTAT changed from 83 to 98% after trypsinization. Numerous false positives were obtained and only FA (91%) and API 20S (96%) yielded better than 90% agreement on non-A identification when compared with the Lancefield test. The most false positives were obtained (45%) using the SeroSTAT reagents. Considering accuracy, our data suggests the FA technique to be the method of choice for identifying group A streptococci.}, }
@article {pmid3985903, year = {1985}, author = {Ellis, HD and Wilcock, SE and Zaman, SA}, title = {Cold and performance: the effects of information load, analgesics, and the rate of cooling.}, journal = {Aviation, space, and environmental medicine}, volume = {56}, number = {3}, pages = {233-237}, pmid = {3985903}, issn = {0095-6562}, mesh = {Adult ; Analgesics/*pharmacology ; Body Temperature ; Cold Temperature/*adverse effects ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Mefenamic Acid/pharmacology ; Reaction Time/drug effects/*physiology ; Stress, Physiological/*psychology ; *Task Performance and Analysis ; Time Factors ; Tolmetin/analogs &amp; derivatives/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {In the first experiment, 8 subjects took part in two experimental sessions--one after receiving one of two kinds of analgesic and the other after receiving a placebo. For each session, subjects completed 8- and 4-choice versions of a serial choice reaction time (SCRT) task at three times: before, during, and after exposure in a cold room at -5 degrees C. Body temperatures were monitored throughout and comfort ratings were recorded. The results indicated that cold increased error rate on the SCRT task, particularly for the 8-choice version which was also associated with faster RTs. However, a speed-accuracy tradeoff explanation for the data was discounted on the grounds that, although overall latencies were faster in the cold compared with precold, these were no faster than postcold RTs. The analgesics had no effect on comfort nor did they have an interpretable effect on performance. In experiment 2, where cooling was much slower for 5 subjects, no such increase in error rate on the SCRT task was observed. Similarly slow cooling did not impair general intellectual ability as measured by Raven's Progressive Matrices.}, }
@article {pmid3985012, year = {1985}, author = {Pinto-Cisternas, J and Pineda, L and Barrai, I}, title = {Estimation of inbreeding by isonymy in Iberoamerican populations: an extension of the method of Crow and Mange.}, journal = {American journal of human genetics}, volume = {37}, number = {2}, pages = {373-385}, pmid = {3985012}, issn = {0002-9297}, mesh = {*Consanguinity ; Female ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Latin America ; Male ; *Models, Genetic ; *Names ; Pedigree ; Spain ; Venezuela ; }, abstract = {The method of isonymy for the estimation of inbreeding levels was extended to use the potentialities offered by the Iberoamerican surname system, in which a child inherits his surnames both from the father and the mother. Four possible types of isonymy were recognized between the family names of a husband-wife pair. It was found that, limited to simple consanguinity, the ratio between isonymy and the inbreeding coefficient of consanguineous individuals, starting from first cousins, is constant and equal to 16. Consanguinity levels were studied in four Venezuelan groups, Isla de Toas, Los Teques, Quibor, and Colonia Tovar, using genealogies, classical isonymy, and the extended method. It was found that, for Iberoamerican populations, the extended method is more precise than the classical method.}, }
@article {pmid3920810, year = {1985}, author = {Uhrín, V}, title = {[Dystrophic muscular fibers in the muscles of certain breeds of birds].}, journal = {Veterinarni medicina}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {179-192}, pmid = {3920810}, issn = {0375-8427}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*pathology ; Birds ; Muscles/pathology ; Muscular Diseases/pathology/*veterinary ; Poultry ; Poultry Diseases/*pathology ; }, abstract = {The occurrence of pathologically changed muscular fibers in some wild species of birds and in economically important domesticated species of birds is described. The hydrops of muscular fibers, necrosis and atrophy with connective tissue infiltration in muscular bundles were detected in breast and thigh muscles in wild birds, e. g. in raven, pigeon and pheasant. The same pathological processes were also found in domesticated species, e. g. in guinea fowl, less often in geese and duck. Their incidence in turkeys and laying types of fowl was more frequent, they were observed most often in muscles of broiler hens. Fission of muscular fibers, very thin, but also hypertrophic fibers and resorption of necrotic fibers were detected in hens besides the above changes. The described histological picture is confronted with the picture of hereditary myodystrophy in chickens.}, }
@article {pmid2986389, year = {1985}, author = {Ivashchenko, AT and Li, T and Uteulin, KR}, title = {[Comparative research on erythrocyte anionic adenosine triphosphatase in vertebrates].}, journal = {Zhurnal evoliutsionnoi biokhimii i fiziologii}, volume = {21}, number = {2}, pages = {197-201}, pmid = {2986389}, issn = {0044-4529}, mesh = {Adenosine Triphosphatases/*blood ; Animals ; Anions ; Birds ; Ca(2+) Mg(2+)-ATPase ; Calcium-Transporting ATPases/blood ; Cricetinae ; Erythrocyte Membrane/enzymology ; Erythrocytes/*enzymology ; Fishes ; Humans ; Male ; Mice ; Rabbits ; Rana ridibunda ; Rats ; Reptiles ; Sheep ; Sodium-Potassium-Exchanging ATPase/blood ; Turtles ; }, abstract = {Studies have been made on the level of activity of anion ATPase and its sensitivity to anions in erythrocytic membranes from fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Significant variations in these properties of the ATPase were found among the species investigated. Protein composition of erythrocytic membranes was also investigated by means of disc-electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel in men, rabbit, rat, mouse, hamster, tortoise, crow and starling.}, }
@article {pmid3978727, year = {1985}, author = {Musil, JV}, title = {[Expectation index in Raven's PM in the diagnosis of alcoholics].}, journal = {Ceskoslovenska psychiatrie}, volume = {81}, number = {1}, pages = {20-25}, pmid = {3978727}, issn = {0069-2336}, mesh = {Alcoholism/diagnosis/*psychology ; Humans ; *Psychological Tests ; *Self-Assessment ; }, }
@article {pmid3978355, year = {1985}, author = {Todman, J and Gibb, CM}, title = {High speed memory scanning in retarded and non-retarded adolescents.}, journal = {British journal of psychology (London, England : 1953)}, volume = {76 (Pt 1)}, number = {}, pages = {49-57}, doi = {10.1111/j.2044-8295.1985.tb01930.x}, pmid = {3978355}, issn = {0007-1269}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Female ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*psychology ; Intelligence ; Male ; *Memory ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Reaction Time ; }, abstract = {Four groups of 13-14-year-olds, classified on the basis of Raven's Progressive Matrices scores as intellectually above average, average, below average and retarded, were subjects in a Sternberg (1966) type memory scanning task in which memory sets of two, three and four letters were used. Slope values of the memory search function did not differ between groups, whereas intercept values decreased with higher intelligence up to the average intelligence level. There was an overall inverse relation between intercept values and intelligence (r = -0.77) and similar relations obtained within the three non-retarded groups (rs greater than or equal to -0.57), but not within the retarded group (r = -0.06). Possible connections between these results and findings from inspection time studies are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid3844210, year = {1985}, author = {Birchenall, M}, title = {Mental health nursing. Why Jay need not be a threat.}, journal = {Nursing times}, volume = {81}, number = {3}, pages = {55}, pmid = {3844210}, issn = {0954-7762}, mesh = {Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*rehabilitation ; Mental Health Services/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Research ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid4050018, year = {1985}, author = {Fischer, G and Dieterich, HJ}, title = {[Ultrastructural findings in the smooth muscles of the iris of magpies (Pica pica)].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur mikroskopisch-anatomische Forschung}, volume = {99}, number = {3}, pages = {415-424}, pmid = {4050018}, issn = {0044-3107}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Iris/*ultrastructure ; Microscopy, Electron ; Muscle, Smooth/*ultrastructure ; Species Specificity ; }, }
@article {pmid4043480, year = {1985}, author = {Nakamura, M and Mori, K and Inooka, S and Nomura, T}, title = {In vitro production of hydrogen peroxide by the amoebocytes of the scallop, Patinopecten yessoensis (Jay).}, journal = {Developmental and comparative immunology}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {407-417}, doi = {10.1016/0145-305x(85)90004-7}, pmid = {4043480}, issn = {0145-305X}, mesh = {Animals ; Bacteria/immunology ; Blood Cells/*metabolism ; Concanavalin A/pharmacology ; Hemocytes/immunology/*metabolism ; Homovanillic Acid ; Hydrogen Peroxide/*metabolism ; Mollusca/cytology/immunology/*metabolism ; Phagocytes/immunology/metabolism ; }, abstract = {In vitro production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) by the amoebocytes of the scallop, Patinopecten yessoensis, was studied. The authors first confirmed the availability of the direct quantitative method using homovanillic acid, and found that both resting and stimulated amoebocytes produced H2O2. However, the latter showed higher capacity for H2O2 production. The amoebocytes stimulated by concanavalin A released a large amount of H2O2 compared with the cells challenged with three species of bacteria.}, }
@article {pmid4035303, year = {1985}, author = {Cornblatt, BA and Lenzenweger, MF and Dworkin, RH and Erlenmeyer-Kimling, L}, title = {Positive and negative schizophrenic symptoms, attention, and information processing.}, journal = {Schizophrenia bulletin}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {397-408}, doi = {10.1093/schbul/11.3.397}, pmid = {4035303}, issn = {0586-7614}, support = {MH-30906-06/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; MH-34206/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; *Attention ; Depressive Disorder/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Recall ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Schizophrenia/*diagnosis ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Speech Perception ; }, abstract = {This study was concerned with the relationship between attentional and information-processing deficits and positive vs. negative symptoms in schizophrenia. Sixteen schizophrenic patients, rated for extent of positive and negative symptomatology, 17 depressed patients, and 31 normal control subjects were tested on a measure of distractibility and ability to process under information overload. To establish the validity of our measures, schizophrenic patients were compared with depressed patients and with normal control subjects. Lowered processing capacity appeared to be specific to schizophrenia, although the specificity of differential distractibility was less clear. For schizophrenic patients, positive symptoms were related to distractibility, whereas negative symptoms were associated with lowered processing capacity. These findings were interpreted as supporting Crow's (1981) hypothesis that the two clinical syndromes reflect independent pathological processes.}, }
@article {pmid4029961, year = {1985}, author = {Rajanikumari, J and Srikumari, CR and Rao, TV}, title = {Variability of selection opportunities with changing socio-cultural environments.}, journal = {Human heredity}, volume = {35}, number = {4}, pages = {218-222}, doi = {10.1159/000153548}, pmid = {4029961}, issn = {0001-5652}, mesh = {Humans ; India/ethnology ; *Selection, Genetic ; *Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {Opportunity for selection has been studied against their contrasting socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds in two endogamous populations, namely, Brahmins and Jalaris of Visakhapatnam, India. Total selection was slightly higher among the better off Brahmins than in Jalaris. But a marked qualitative and quantitative variation was found in the contributing components; the fertility differential was circa 60% in Brahmins while the mortality differential was circa 60% in Jalaris according to the Crow Index. The decreased mortality differential in Brahmins suggests that this component was directly affected by the better socio-economic level and reflects on the population's transitional phase. Further, the If value fell to a half in women who completed their fertility by family planning when compared to women who completed their fertility by menopause, thus reducing the variance in fertility component in the family planning group.}, }
@article {pmid3988176, year = {1985}, author = {Slabý, O}, title = {Development and comparative morphology of the nasal apparatus of the rook (Corvus frugilegus L.). (Morphogenesis of the nasal capsule, the nasal epithelial tube and the organ of Jacobson in Sauropsida XI).}, journal = {Folia morphologica}, volume = {33}, number = {1}, pages = {48-62}, pmid = {3988176}, issn = {0015-5640}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*embryology ; Morphogenesis ; Nasal Bone/embryology ; Nasal Septum/embryology ; Nose/*embryology ; Olfactory Mucosa/embryology ; Species Specificity ; }, }
@article {pmid3977310, year = {1985}, author = {Kato, Y and Ito, K and Kubokura, Y and Maruyama, T and Kaneko, K and Ogawa, M}, title = {Occurrence of Yersinia enterocolitica in wild-living birds and Japanese serows.}, journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology}, volume = {49}, number = {1}, pages = {198-200}, pmid = {3977310}, issn = {0099-2240}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Antelopes/*microbiology ; Artiodactyla/*microbiology ; Birds/*microbiology ; Feces/microbiology ; Japan ; Seasons ; Species Specificity ; Yersinia/*isolation &amp; purification ; Yersinia enterocolitica/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Yersinia spp. were isolated from 34 of 500 birds representing nine species. The highest isolation rate, 5 of 21 (23.8%), was found in blue magpies (Cyanopia cyanus), followed by pheasants (Phasianus colchicus tohkaidi), 5 of 33 (15.2%); gray starlings (Sturnus cineraceus), 6 of 57 (10.5%); tree sparrows (Passer montanus), 1 of 14 (7.1%); bulbuls (Hypsipetes amaurotis), 4 of 57 (7.0%); crows (Corvus levailantii or Corvus corone), 7 of 117 (6.0%); eastern turtledoves (Streptopelia orientalis), 4 of 118 (3.4%); Chinese bamboo pheasants (Bumbusicola thoracica thoracica), 1 of 36 (2.8%); and domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica), 1 of 47 (2.1%). The isolates were identified as Yersinia enterocolitica O:3, O:4, O:4,32, O:5A, O:6,30, O:7,8, and O:14, Yersinia frederiksenii, Yersinia intermedia, and Yersinia kristensenii. Yersinia spp. were isolated from 35 of 157 wild-living Japanese serows (Capricornis cripus). The isolates were identified as Y. enterocolitica O:4, O:4,32, O:5A, O:7, O:7,8, O:9, O:14, O:18, and O:34, Y. frederiksenii, Y. intermedia, and Y. kristensenii.}, }
@article {pmid3974855, year = {1985}, author = {Basso, A and Capitani, E and Luzzatti, C and Spinnler, H and Zanobio, ME}, title = {Different basic components in the performance of Broca's and Wernicke's aphasics on the Colour-Figure Matching Test.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {51-59}, doi = {10.1016/0028-3932(85)90043-0}, pmid = {3974855}, issn = {0028-3932}, mesh = {Aphasia/*psychology ; Aphasia, Broca/*psychology ; Aphasia, Wernicke/*psychology ; Brain Damage, Chronic/physiopathology/psychology ; Cerebral Cortex/physiopathology ; Cognition/physiology ; Dominance, Cerebral/physiology ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; }, abstract = {It is known that focal damage of the left hemisphere causes poor performances in a number of tasks devoid of overt verbal connotation, often referred to as "non-verbal intelligence", "association" or "abstract attitude" tasks. However, it is not clear whether the existence of a unitary basic functional defect to account for the faulty performances outlined above can be supposed. In this investigation we have compared the behaviour of left-hemisphere damaged patients grouped according to aphasia type and have studied the extent to which two different, widely used tests of this supposed "non-verbal basic ability" (i.e. the Weigl Sorting Test and the Raven Progressive Matrices) overlap in their predictive power of the performance of a non-verbal association task, i.e. the Colour-Figure Matching Test. Notwithstanding the identical level of performance in the three tests between groups having different aphasia types, a clear-cut dissociation was found between Broca's and Wernicke's aphasics; in the former group the Colour-Figure Matching Test was highly correlated only with Weigl Sorting Test and in the latter only with Progressive Matrices. The conclusions are that in this case the breakdown of non-verbal basic resources does not coincide in patients with different types of aphasia, and the hypothesis of the existence of a unitary basic defect caused by left hemisphere damage is not in line with our findings.}, }
@article {pmid3972946, year = {1985}, author = {Seltzer, CC and Oechsli, FW}, title = {Psychosocial characteristics of adolescent smokers before they started smoking: evidence of self-selection. A prospective study.}, journal = {Journal of chronic diseases}, volume = {38}, number = {1}, pages = {17-26}, doi = {10.1016/0021-9681(85)90004-9}, pmid = {3972946}, issn = {0021-9681}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Personality ; Personality Tests ; Prospective Studies ; Psychological Tests ; *Psychology, Adolescent ; *Smoking ; }, abstract = {Evidence of noncomparability of self-formed smoker and nonsmoker groups of adolescents from the Child Health and Development Studies of the University of California, Berkeley, was found in a study of antecedent psychosocial characteristics (observed at age 10) before the adoption of the smoking habit. With possible confounding factors controlled, eventual smokers showed significantly greater prevalence than nonsmokers of Type A personality traits, extraversion, psychoticism, anger, and restless sleep. Eventual smokers were lower in socioeconomic status than nonsmokers, and also exhibited significantly lower mean scores for the Raven Progressive Matrices and Peabody Picture Vocabulary tests. For each trait, the trends of the data were consistent in boys and girls. Since many of these traits are shown to "track" into adult life, where they are then related to coronary heart disease, the role of self-selection requires further consideration in causal inferences about smoking and coronary heart disease.}, }
@article {pmid3968156, year = {1985}, author = {Bennion, RS and Owens, ML and Wilson, SE}, title = {The effect of unilateral carotid endarterectomy on neuropsychological test performance in 53 patients.}, journal = {The Journal of cardiovascular surgery}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {21-26}, pmid = {3968156}, issn = {0021-9509}, mesh = {Endarterectomy/*psychology ; Humans ; Ischemic Attack, Transient/therapy ; Language Tests ; Male ; Memory, Short-Term ; Middle Aged ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; Prospective Studies ; }, abstract = {Six psychomotor tests (Ravens matrices, finger tapping, spatial orientation, arithmetic, vocabulary, and short-term memory) were administered preoperatively, at 3-7 days and 3 months postoperatively to 53 patients undergoing unilateral carotid endarterectomy between 1978 and 1982. Standard operative technique included general anesthesia and Javid shunt. None of the patients experienced postoperative neurological deficit or significant complications. Individual and cumulative test scores were correlated with prior CVA, neurological examination, cerebral angiography, pre and postoperative computerized cerebral tomograms and intraoperative carotid flow measurements. Psychometric scores did not change postoperatively in 18 patients with prior CVA's. Forty-five patients operated upon for high grade stenosis (75% reduction in cross sectional diameter) had a significant increase in early post-endarterectomy test scores which returned to preoperative levels by three months postoperatively. Increase in intra-operative carotid artery blood flow correlated with improved test performance. We conclude that carotid endarterectomy of flow restrictive stenosis initially augments psychometric test performance but the improvement is not sustained at the third postoperative month.}, }
@article {pmid3965643, year = {1985}, author = {Crow, T}, title = {Conditioned modification of phototactic behavior in Hermissenda. II. Differential adaptation of B-photoreceptors.}, journal = {The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience}, volume = {5}, number = {1}, pages = {215-223}, doi = {10.1523/JNEUROSCI.05-01-00215.1985}, pmid = {3965643}, issn = {0270-6474}, support = {HD15793/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Action Potentials/radiation effects ; Adaptation, Physiological ; Animals ; Conditioning, Psychological/*physiology ; *Light ; Mollusca/*physiology ; Movement ; Photoreceptor Cells/*physiology/radiation effects ; Synapses/physiology ; }, abstract = {Changes in the response of B-type photoreceptors to illumination were examined in the isolated nervous systems of Hermissenda following the conditioning procedures described in the preceding paper. Analysis of the transient peak amplitude of the depolarizing generator potential at the onset of two of the three light intensities used in the behavioral studies did not reveal an enhanced photoresponse to the light. However, when the activity of the same B-photoreceptors was examined after 5 min of continuous light, there was a significant decrease in the light-adapted discharge rate and a decreased generator potential amplitude in conditioned animals as compared to the random controls. An examination of the light adapted photoresponse in preparations where spike generation and synaptic interactions were eliminated showed that the decreased photoresponse of conditioned animals was due to factors that are intrinsic to the B-photoreceptors. These results are consistent with previous work suggesting that conditioning produces substantial adaptation effects in B-photoreceptors (Crow, T. (1982) Soc. Neurosci. Abstr. 8: 824). Since the cellular changes qualitatively follow the behavioral changes and are observed at times and light intensities that are similar to those where the suppression of phototactic behavior is expressed, phototactic suppression may be directly related to the changes in the B-photoreceptors and may not require the previously proposed complex network interactions within the eyes of Hermissenda.}, }
@article {pmid3911248, year = {1985}, author = {Cantalamessa, L and Catania, A and Silva, A and Orsatti, A and Motta, P and Cazzullo, CL}, title = {Gonadotropin releasing hormone elicits abnormal hormone responses in schizophrenia.}, journal = {Psychoneuroendocrinology}, volume = {10}, number = {4}, pages = {481-484}, doi = {10.1016/0306-4530(85)90088-5}, pmid = {3911248}, issn = {0306-4530}, mesh = {Acute Disease ; Adolescent ; Adult ; Growth Hormone/*metabolism ; Humans ; Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System/*physiopathology ; Male ; *Pituitary Hormone-Releasing Hormones ; Prolactin/*metabolism ; Schizophrenia/*physiopathology ; }, abstract = {We studied the non-specific responses of GH and PRL to gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) in eleven male patients aged 18-30 in whom a diagnosis of acute schizophrenia was made according to Crow's criteria. GnRH administration was followed by a significant increase in plasma GH in five patients; plasma PRL increased in two patients. The two prolactin responders were also GH responders. Non-specific GH response was confirmed on repeated testing in two patients in whom GnRH stimulation was performed twice. During saline control, non-specific hormone responses were not observed. The abnormal hormone responses observed in acute schizophrenia are probably due to the disordered monoamine regulation characteristic of this condition.}, }
@article {pmid3894293, year = {1985}, author = {Lam, CR}, title = {The strange story of Jay McLean, the discoverer of heparin.}, journal = {Henry Ford Hospital medical journal}, volume = {33}, number = {1}, pages = {18-23}, pmid = {3894293}, issn = {0018-0416}, mesh = {Heparin/*history ; History, 20th Century ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid3885384, year = {1985}, author = {Sohlberg, SC and Yaniv, S}, title = {Social adjustment and cognitive performance of high-risk children.}, journal = {Schizophrenia bulletin}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {61-65}, doi = {10.1093/schbul/11.1.61}, pmid = {3885384}, issn = {0586-7614}, mesh = {Attention ; Child ; *Cognition ; Environment ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Mathematics ; Risk ; Schizophrenia/*genetics ; *Social Adjustment ; Social Desirability ; Social Isolation ; Sociometric Techniques ; }, abstract = {The study children were given two group-administered tests: the Raven's Matrices and an arithmetic achievement test. In addition they were observed in their classrooms, and also ranked by their classmates in terms of standard sociometric measures. The index children tended to perform somewhat more poorly on the arithmetic and Raven's Matrices tests than the controls. Classroom observations suggested that index cases concentrated more poorly and showed more forms of withdrawal behavior than controls; moreover, they had a lower social status, as viewed by their peers. The relationship of these findings to prior work is discussed, as is the importance of gathering naturalistic observational data.}, }
@article {pmid3860070, year = {1985}, author = {Brower, LP and Fink, LS}, title = {A natural toxic defense system: cardenolides in butterflies versus birds.}, journal = {Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences}, volume = {443}, number = {}, pages = {171-188}, doi = {10.1111/j.1749-6632.1985.tb27072.x}, pmid = {3860070}, issn = {0077-8923}, mesh = {Animals ; Appetitive Behavior/*drug effects ; Avoidance Learning/*drug effects ; Birds ; *Butterflies ; Cardenolides/*pharmacology ; Conditioning, Classical/*drug effects ; Discrimination Learning/drug effects ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Eating/drug effects ; *Lepidoptera ; Predatory Behavior/*drug effects ; Taste/*drug effects ; }, abstract = {We have verified that wild birds can become conditioned to reject naturally toxic insects either visually (experiment 1) or by taste (experiment 2). We have also verified, however, that unconditioned taste rejection of noxious chemicals by wild birds also occurs (experiment 3). Such unconditioned responses to the aposematic visual and taste cues of many insects, in fact, often appear to be as important as, or more important than, conditioned responses. In a large number of laboratory feeding experiments with wild birds as predators of aposematic insects, initial and/or long-term rejection occurs without prior laboratory conditioning experience. Although in some experiments the birds may have previously been exposed to (and therefore perhaps conditioned by) the aposematic prey in the wild, other experiments have used naive birds or insects whose ranges do not overlap those of the birds. Wiklund and Jarvi, for example, tested the response of 47 naive hand-raised birds of four species to five aposematic insect species, and found that 69/136 (51%) insects were rejected visually without even tasting, while 63 were tasted and then rejected. Only four of the insects were actually ingested. Similarly, in Bowers' study of the response of Massachusetts blue jays to aposematic western U.S. Euphydryas butterflies, several blue jays consistently rejected the butterflies visually or by taste without having eaten any. While these studies were not designed to separate neophobic effects from innate visual and/or taste aversions, they do differentiate between conditioned and unconditioned responses. Since both conditioned and unconditioned rejections can be demonstrated in the lab by insectivorous birds, and our available field evidence does not yet let us distinguish the mechanisms behind the observed patterns, our initial question, of the relative importance of conditioned versus unconditioned rejection mechanisms in different natural situations, is not yet answerable. The most important requirement of a food-rejection strategy is that it prevents both poisoning and starvation. We have shown, however, that rejection of a noxious insect by a bird can take place at four distinct levels (visual, non-destructive taste sampling, destructive taste sampling, or post-ingestional physiological rejection), the first three of which may be either unconditioned or conditioned by a physiological reaction to ingestion.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid3161305, year = {1985}, author = {Nicolle, FV}, title = {Correction of age- and disease-related contour deficiencies of the face.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {9}, number = {2}, pages = {159-162}, pmid = {3161305}, issn = {0364-216X}, mesh = {Acne Vulgaris/surgery ; Aging ; Collagen/adverse effects/*therapeutic use ; *Dermatologic Surgical Procedures ; Face/*surgery ; Humans ; *Prostheses and Implants/adverse effects ; *Surgery, Plastic ; }, abstract = {The main indications for Zyderm Collagen Implant in the face are for the correction of acne scars and facial wrinkles, such as the lines of the forehead, crow's feet, naso-labial crease lines, and creases of the lips. Few complications have been found, but it is vitally important that patients are carefully assessed and well informed before treatment is commenced.}, }
@article {pmid2863872, year = {1985}, author = {Goldberg, SC}, title = {Negative and deficit symptoms in schizophrenia do respond to neuroleptics.}, journal = {Schizophrenia bulletin}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {453-456}, doi = {10.1093/schbul/11.3.453}, pmid = {2863872}, issn = {0586-7614}, mesh = {Antipsychotic Agents/*therapeutic use ; Arousal/drug effects ; Humans ; Interpersonal Relations ; Neurocognitive Disorders/drug therapy ; Schizophrenia/*drug therapy ; Schizophrenia, Disorganized/drug therapy ; Schizophrenic Language ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Social Environment ; Verbal Behavior/drug effects ; }, abstract = {Five large-scale placebo-controlled studies are cited to show that, contrary to the contention of Johnstone et al. (1976) and Crow (1980), negative and/or deficit symptoms in schizophrenia do indeed respond to neuroleptic treatment. Further evidence is given that it is the "organic-like" symptoms (visual and olfactory hallucinations, disorientation, and memory deficit) that do not respond to neuroleptics. This would more sensibly reformulate the hypothesis of Johnstone et al. (1976) and Crow (1980) to state that schizophrenic patients with enlarged ventricles tend to show symptoms of organicity and tend not to respond to neuroleptics.}, }
@article {pmid6569781, year = {1984}, author = {Crow, R}, title = {Interview with Dr. Rosemary Crow. Interview by Evelyn Guillemin, Nancy Grant.}, journal = {AARN news letter}, volume = {40}, number = {11}, pages = {8-10}, pmid = {6569781}, issn = {0001-0197}, mesh = {Alberta ; *Nursing ; *Research ; }, }
@article {pmid6529408, year = {1984}, author = {Agrawal, N and Sinha, SN and Jensen, AR}, title = {Effects of inbreeding on Raven matrices.}, journal = {Behavior genetics}, volume = {14}, number = {6}, pages = {579-585}, pmid = {6529408}, issn = {0001-8244}, mesh = {Adolescent ; *Consanguinity ; Genetic Variation ; Humans ; India ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Islam ; Male ; Phenotype ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, }
@article {pmid6522499, year = {1984}, author = {Wasserman, FE and Dowd, C and Byman, D and Schlinger, BA and Battista, SP and Kunz, TH}, title = {Aversion/attraction of blue jays to microwave irradiation.}, journal = {Physiology &amp; behavior}, volume = {33}, number = {5}, pages = {805-807}, doi = {10.1016/0031-9384(84)90051-9}, pmid = {6522499}, issn = {0031-9384}, mesh = {Animals ; Biophysical Phenomena ; Biophysics ; Birds/*physiology ; Escape Reaction ; *Microwaves ; Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Aversion/attraction experiments were conducted to determine whether birds can perceive the presence of 2.45 GHz continuous wave microwave irradiation by observing whether Blue Jays (Cyanocitta cristata) exhibit an attraction or an aversion to the field when exposed to 25 and 50 mW/cm2. At power densities of 25 and 50 mW/cm2 Blue Jays exhibit an aversion to microwave irradiation.}, }
@article {pmid6439858, year = {1984}, author = {Cerná, Z}, title = {The role of birds as definitive hosts and intermediate hosts of heteroxenous coccidians.}, journal = {The Journal of protozoology}, volume = {31}, number = {4}, pages = {579-581}, doi = {10.1111/j.1550-7408.1984.tb05508.x}, pmid = {6439858}, issn = {0022-3921}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*parasitology ; Coccidia/growth &amp; development/*isolation &amp; purification ; Digestive System/parasitology ; Muscles/parasitology ; Sarcocystis/growth &amp; development/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Sarcocystis-like oocysts-sporocysts were found in four species of owls (Asio otus, Bubo bubo, Strix aluco, and Tyto alba) and in five species of predatory birds (Accipiter gentilis, Accipiter nisus, Buteo buteo, Circus aeruginosus, Falco tinnunculus). In addition, the muscles of 15 of 41 (36.5%) pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) and one of two jays (Garrulus glandarius) were found to harbor three types of Sarcocystis. Three of 15 (20%) infected pheasants had type I cystozoites (6-8 X 2 microns) in muscle homogenates, but sarcocysts were not seen whereas the other 12 infected pheasants had type II cystozoites (16 X 2-3 microns) and sarcocysts (90 X 600 microns) in their muscles. The one infected jay had type III cystozoites (8-10.5 X 2.5-3 microns) and sarcocysts (35-40 X greater than 770 microns) in its muscles.}, }
@article {pmid6240202, year = {1984}, author = {Berry, P and Groeneweg, G and Gibson, D and Brown, RI}, title = {Mental development of adults with Down syndrome.}, journal = {American journal of mental deficiency}, volume = {89}, number = {3}, pages = {252-256}, pmid = {6240202}, issn = {0002-9351}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Deinstitutionalization ; Down Syndrome/*psychology/rehabilitation ; *Education of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Male ; Psychological Tests ; *Social Adjustment ; }, abstract = {Measures of cognitive, verbal, and functional performance obtained at widely separated time periods were examined for adults with Down syndrome. Comparisons of first and last test profiles for Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices, Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test, and Adaptive Functioning Index (Social Education) Test all demonstrated significant increases over a mean time span of 5 years. These increases could not be attributed to year of entry into program, history of institutionalization, or age of the individuals. The findings indicate that mental development of adults with Down syndrome continues well into the third and fourth decade of life.}, }
@article {pmid6391247, year = {1984}, author = {Shelley, WB and Beerman, H}, title = {Jay Frank Schamberg (1870-1934).}, journal = {The American Journal of dermatopathology}, volume = {6}, number = {5}, pages = {441-444}, doi = {10.1097/00000372-198410000-00005}, pmid = {6391247}, issn = {0193-1091}, mesh = {Dermatology/history ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Pigmentation Disorders/*history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid6238865, year = {1984}, author = {Revazov, AA and Bol'shakova, LP}, title = {[Medical genetic study of the population of Turkmenia. VI. An analysis of the genetic component of fertility dispersion in the population of Nokhor].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {20}, number = {10}, pages = {1714-1718}, pmid = {6238865}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; *Ethnicity ; Family Characteristics ; Female ; *Fertility ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Selection, Genetic ; Turkmenistan ; }, abstract = {The index of the total opportunity for selection (the Crow index) and the genetic part of total variance in progeny size was studied in small Turkmenian isolated population "Nochur". The average number of children per family in families that had completed their reproductive period was 6.84, the variance being 12.31. The index of total opportunity for selection was computed by the standard method of J. Crow: Jm = 0.313, Jf = 0.454, Jtot = 0.909. Some correlation coefficients of the progeny size were calculated. The sister-sister correlation coefficient was significantly distinguished from 0 and was equal to +0.22. Thus, the genetic part of total variance of the progeny size is 0.4-0.5. It is essential for understanding of the Jf estimation.}, }
@article {pmid6206094, year = {1984}, author = {David, RM and Skilbeck, CE}, title = {Raven IQ and language recovery following stroke.}, journal = {Journal of clinical neuropsychology}, volume = {6}, number = {3}, pages = {302-308}, doi = {10.1080/01688638408401220}, pmid = {6206094}, issn = {0165-0475}, mesh = {Aged ; Aphasia/diagnosis/*psychology ; Cerebral Infarction/*psychology ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {The relationship between IQ and language recovery in aphasic patients was investigated using Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, Functional Communication Profile, and Schuell scores. The study involved 148 stroke patients who were part of a controlled trial of speech therapy. Although initial IQ correlated with severity of aphasia, no evidence was found for a relationship between IQ and subsequent language recovery. Nevertheless, initial IQ level was found to relate to some measures of physical status and to death soon after testing.}, }
@article {pmid6539431, year = {1984}, author = {Nakanishi, T and Sobue, I and Toyokura, Y and Nishitani, H and Kuroiwa, Y and Satoyoshi, E and Tsubaki, T and Igata, A and Ozaki, Y}, title = {The Crow-Fukase syndrome: a study of 102 cases in Japan.}, journal = {Neurology}, volume = {34}, number = {6}, pages = {712-720}, doi = {10.1212/wnl.34.6.712}, pmid = {6539431}, issn = {0028-3878}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Blood Proteins/analysis ; Bone Neoplasms/blood/diagnostic imaging/*pathology ; Female ; Humans ; *Immunoglobulins ; Japan ; Lymph Nodes/pathology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neural Conduction ; Plasmacytoma/blood/diagnostic imaging/*pathology ; Polyneuropathies/blood/*pathology/physiopathology ; Radiography ; Skin Diseases/blood/*pathology ; Syndrome ; }, abstract = {Clinical manifestations of 102 cases with the Crow- Fukase syndrome (the syndrome of polyneuropathy, anasarca, skin changes, endocrinopathy, dysglobulinemia, and organomegaly), with or without myeloma, were reviewed. Fifty-six cases with myeloma consisted of 31 with osteosclerotic, 17 with mixed osteosclerotic and osteolytic, and 8 with osteolytic. Forty-six cases without myeloma consisted of 2 with extramedullary plasmacytoma, 33 with M protein alone, and 11 with polyclonal protein alone. There was no significant difference in incidence of the major clinical manifestations between the two groups with and without myeloma. They had a common characteristic histologic finding of the lymph node resembling that of Castleman's disease.}, }
@article {pmid6563571, year = {1984}, author = {Stanworth, R}, title = {Mental health nursing. Whatever became of Jay?.}, journal = {Nursing times}, volume = {80}, number = {21}, pages = {57-58}, pmid = {6563571}, issn = {0954-7762}, mesh = {Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*nursing/rehabilitation ; Psychiatric Nursing/*organization &amp; administration ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid6325441, year = {1984}, author = {DiFrancesco, R and Bhatnagar, SK and Brown, A and Bessman, MJ}, title = {The interaction of DNA polymerase III and the product of the Escherichia coli mutator gene, mutD.}, journal = {The Journal of biological chemistry}, volume = {259}, number = {9}, pages = {5567-5573}, pmid = {6325441}, issn = {0021-9258}, support = {GM-18649/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Bacterial Proteins/*genetics ; DNA Polymerase III/isolation &amp; purification/*metabolism ; DNA-Directed DNA Polymerase/*metabolism ; Escherichia coli/enzymology/*genetics ; *Genes ; *Genes, Bacterial ; Kinetics ; *Mutation ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {A comparison of DNA polymerase III core enzyme (McHenry, C. S., and Crow, W. (1979) J. Biol. Chem. 254, 1748-1753) prepared from wild type Escherichia coli and a strain harboring the mutator gene, mutD5 (Degnen, G. E., and Cox, E. C. (1974) J. Bacteriol. 17, 477-487) has revealed several differences in their properties. Among these are alterations in the heat stability, divalent cation requirement, pH optimum, 3'----5'-single strand exonuclease activity, and DNA-dependent conversion of a deoxynucleoside triphosphate to its corresponding monophosphate ("turnover"). The decrease in the 3'-single strand exonuclease and turnover indicate a defect in the editing function of the mutD strain, which is at least in part responsible for the high spontaneous mutation rate in mutD. Transformation of mutD by a hybrid plasmid, pRD3, constructed from an EcoRI restriction fragment of E. coli and pBR322, cures mutD of its abnormally high mutation rate, and simultaneously restores its 3'-exonuclease activity. These observations are consistent with the notion that the mutD gene product is a subunit of DNA polymerase III, and it either contains the catalytic site for the 3'-exonuclease or modulates its activity. From a consideration of the known molecular weights of the subunits in DNA polymerase III core (McHenry C. S., and Crow, W. (1979) J. Biol. Chem. 254, 1748-1753) the molecular weights of the two proteins translated in maxicells transformed with pRD3, and from a comparison of our results with those obtained with the mutator dnaQ (Horiuchi, T., Maki, H., Maruyama, M., and Sekiguchi, M. (1981) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 78, 3770-3774) and the work of Cox and Horner (Cox, E. C., and Horner, D. L. (1983) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 80, 2295-2299) as well as Echols et al. (Echols, H., Lu, C., and Burgers, P. M. J. (1983) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 80, 2189-2192) we tentatively assign the mutD gene product to the epsilon subunit of DNA polymerase III.}, }
@article {pmid6746478, year = {1984}, author = {Okuno, I and Connolly, GE and Savarie, PJ and Breidenstein, CP}, title = {Gas chromatographic analysis of coyote and magpie tissues for residues of compound 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate).}, journal = {Journal - Association of Official Analytical Chemists}, volume = {67}, number = {3}, pages = {549-553}, pmid = {6746478}, issn = {0004-5756}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*metabolism ; Carnivora/*metabolism ; Chromatography, Gas/instrumentation/methods ; Fluoroacetates/*analysis ; Muscles/analysis ; Pectoralis Muscles/analysis ; Pesticide Residues/*analysis ; Preservation, Biological ; Rodenticides/*analysis ; Stomach/analysis ; }, abstract = {Tissues of coyotes and magpies administered known dosages of 1080 were analyzed for residues by an analytical method specifying gas chromatography and electron capture detection. The repeatability of the method was determined for the replicate analyses of coyote muscle tissue samples aged under different storage conditions. The average coefficient of variation (CV) was 6% for quadruplicate determinations of 1080 in fresh tissues, 12-14% for samples stored at - 10 degrees C for 30-60 days, and 24% for samples aged for 7 days at ambient temperatures. The larger CV value obtained for stored samples is attributed more to greater sample variability than to less precision of the analytical method. Residues of 1080 appear to be relatively stable in tissues; there was essentially no change in the concentration of 1080 in samples stored up to 28 days at ambient temperature. Residue levels in the muscle, heart, kidney, and intestine were comparable, slightly lower in the liver, and much higher in the stomach. The concentration of 1080 in the muscle tissue was related to the administered dosages. Correlation analyses of dosages and residue levels in coyote muscle tissue showed a correlation coefficient of 0.99 for 1080 administered by gavage, and 0.88 for 1080 administered by bait. A correlation coefficient of 0.99 was observed between dosages and mean residues in the breast muscle tissues of magpies. The average CV value was 3.5% for duplicate analyses of 1 g samples of magpie tissues.}, }
@article {pmid6748450, year = {1984}, author = {Chiba, N and Arikawa, J and Takashima, I and Hashimoto, N}, title = {Isolation and serological survey of chlamydiosis in feral pigeons and crows in Hokkaido.}, journal = {Nihon juigaku zasshi. The Japanese journal of veterinary science}, volume = {46}, number = {2}, pages = {243-245}, doi = {10.1292/jvms1939.46.243}, pmid = {6748450}, issn = {0021-5295}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/microbiology ; Antibodies, Bacterial/analysis ; Bird Diseases/*microbiology ; Birds ; Chlamydophila psittaci/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Columbidae/*microbiology ; Japan ; Lung/microbiology ; Psittacosis/microbiology/*veterinary ; Spleen/microbiology ; }, }
@article {pmid6426540, year = {1984}, author = {Samsel, RW and Perelson, AS}, title = {Kinetics of rouleau formation. II. Reversible reactions.}, journal = {Biophysical journal}, volume = {45}, number = {4}, pages = {805-824}, pmid = {6426540}, issn = {0006-3495}, support = {5 K04 AI00450-04/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; S07 RR05664-11/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Edetic Acid ; *Erythrocyte Aggregation ; Hematocrit ; Humans ; Kinetics ; Mathematics ; Models, Biological ; Thermodynamics ; }, abstract = {Red blood cells aggregate face-to-face to form long, cylindrical, straight chains and sometimes branched structures called rouleaux. Here we extend a kinetic model developed by R. W. Samsel and A. S. Perelson (1982, Biophys. J. 37:493-514) to include both the formation and dissociation of rouleaux. We examine thermodynamic constraints on the rate constants of the model imposed by the principle of detailed balance. Incorporation of reverse reactions allows us to compute mean sizes of rouleaux and straight chain segments within rouleaux, as functions of time and at equilibrium. Using the Flory - Stockmayer method from polymer chemistry, we obtain a closed-form solution for the size distribution of straight chain segments within rouleaux at any point in the evolution of the reaction. The predictions of our theory compare favorably with data collected by D. Kernick , A.W.L. Jay , S. Rowlands , and L. Skibo (1973, Can. J. Physiol. Pharmacol. 51:690-699) on the kinetics of rouleau formation. When rouleaux grow large, they may contain rings or loops and take on the appearance of a network. We demonstrate the importance of including the kinetics of ring closure in the development of realistic models of rouleaux formation.}, }
@article {pmid6742987, year = {1984}, author = {Hirano, S and Shirai, T}, title = {Morphogenetic studies on the neural crest of hynobius larvae using vital staining and India ink labeling methods.}, journal = {Archivum histologicum Japonicum = Nihon soshikigaku kiroku}, volume = {47}, number = {1}, pages = {57-70}, doi = {10.1679/aohc.47.57}, pmid = {6742987}, issn = {0004-0681}, mesh = {Animals ; Cell Differentiation ; Cell Movement ; Intercellular Junctions/ultrastructure ; Larva ; *Metamorphosis, Biological ; Microscopy, Electron ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Neural Crest/*cytology ; Caudata ; }, abstract = {The neural crest cells of hynobius larvae during the morphogenesis of the neural crest were studied with the following methods: the region of the primordial neural crest was first determined by vital stainings, and then the movement of individual neural crest cells was traced with India ink labeling. The cytoarchitecture and the fine structure of neural crest cells were further observed by light, transmission and scanning electron microscopy. The primordium of the neural crest is located in the area extending from the lateral part of the neural plate to the medial part of the neural fold. RAVEN (1931) suggested that the lateral part of the neural fold was a part of the primordial neural crest. The result of our vital staining shows that it is the primordial epidermal ectoderm. The morphogenesis of the neural crest was found to proceed as follows: at first both neural folds moved to the dorsal mid line of larva, then contacted and fused to each other. The primordial neural crest cells in the neural folds became polygonal, and these cells from both folds mixed and formed a neural crest cell mass. In this process they lost their junctional apparatuses. When larvae developed at the tail bud stage, the cells in the lateral part of the neural crest extended their cytoplasmic processes and began to migrate.}, }
@article {pmid6539540, year = {1984}, author = {Krause, W and Daute, KH and Thiele, G and Fuhrmeister, EM and Burgmeier, J and Donczik, J and Michels, W}, title = {[Morbidity of term and low-birth weight infants born in breech presentation by vaginal or abdominal delivery].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Geburtshilfe und Perinatologie}, volume = {188}, number = {2}, pages = {80-86}, pmid = {6539540}, issn = {0300-967X}, mesh = {Apgar Score ; Attention ; *Birth Weight ; *Breech Presentation ; *Cesarean Section ; Child ; *Child Development/physiology ; Child, Preschool ; Extraction, Obstetrical ; Female ; Humans ; Infant, Low Birth Weight ; Infant, Newborn ; Intelligence ; *Labor Presentation ; Morbidity ; Motor Activity ; Pregnancy ; Psychological Tests ; }, abstract = {182 children born in breech presentation were investigated at the age of 5 to 6 years with regard to late morbidity after vaginal delivery and caesarean section. From case historical data, development in early childhood was assessed comparing the criteria of walking, speaking and "dryness". An attempt was made to find a relation between neonatal data and late morbidity. 156 children (85,7%) had a birthweight of not less than 2 500 g. 26 children (14,3%) were preterm and/or small for date. 80 term babies and 8 preterm and/or small for date babies were delivered by caesarean section. The birth weight of the preterm and/or small for date babies was 2 212,5 +/- 286,5 g for those delivered by caesarean section and 2 070,5 +/- 312,0 g for those delivered vaginally. The investigation program consisted of the following items: A. Assessment of intellectual development by means of the Raven-test, B. Examination of total and minute motor activity by means of the Rostock- Oseretzky -scale, C. Assessment of concentration abilities according to Koch- Pleissner . Statistically significant advantages in all items investigated were found in the group of term as well as preterm and/or small for date babies delivered by caesarean section. Except for intellectual development, analogous results were found for term delivered babies. Concerning development in early childhood, as reflected in walking, speaking and "dryness", there were no statistically significant differences between children delivered vaginally and those delivered by caesarean section. No relation could be found between neonatal data (Apgar-score, pH-value in the umbilical artery) and late morbidity. Problems of birth management are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid6704607, year = {1984}, author = {Liddle, PF and Crow, TJ}, title = {Age disorientation in chronic schizophrenia is associated with global intellectual impairment.}, journal = {The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science}, volume = {144}, number = {}, pages = {193-199}, doi = {10.1192/bjp.144.2.193}, pmid = {6704607}, issn = {0007-1250}, mesh = {Chronic Disease ; Cognition Disorders/*complications ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Learning ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Schizophrenia/*complications ; Schizophrenic Psychology ; Self Concept ; Time Perception ; }, abstract = {From a population of long-stay patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia according to the St Louis criteria, a group of 21 patients with 'age disorientation' was selected, and compared on a series of tests of intellect and learning capacity with a matched control group of 21 schizophrenic patients without this feature. The age-disorientated patients demonstrated substantial impairments on tests of orientation and general knowledge, associational learning, the 'famous personality' test, tests of vocabulary and aphasia, Raven's matrices, the digit-symbol substitution test and the mental test score. We conclude that profound 'organic-type' psychological deficits (global impairment of intellectual function associated with temporal disorientation) undoubtedly occur in chronic schizophrenia. The findings on the 'famous personality' test and the Peabody vocabulary test did not exclude the possibility that such impairment arises early in life, at a time preceding the onset of the illness which leads to hospital admission.}, }
@article {pmid6729000, year = {1984}, author = {Wytek, R and Opgenoorth, E and Presslich, O}, title = {Development of a new shortened version of Raven's matrices test for application and rough assessment of present intellectual capacity within psychopathological investigation.}, journal = {Psychopathology}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {49-58}, doi = {10.1159/000284003}, pmid = {6729000}, issn = {0254-4962}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Mental Disorders/diagnosis/*psychology ; Middle Aged ; Psychometrics ; Psychopathology ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {Based on a sample of 300 psychiatric patients the items of the Standard Progressive Matrices test are analyzed in terms of classical and probabilistic methods, and a version shortened to 30 items is developed. This new version of the test is then standardized from a new sample of 1,200 patients. A table of selected percentiles is computed. Validation with respect to rough classification of intelligence is proved by comparison with results of the WIP .}, }
@article {pmid6721377, year = {1984}, author = {Millet, P and Bain, O}, title = {[New filaria of the magpie, Eufilaria kalifai n. sp. (Lemdaninae) and its development in Culicoides nubeculosus].}, journal = {Annales de parasitologie humaine et comparee}, volume = {59}, number = {2}, pages = {177-187}, pmid = {6721377}, issn = {0003-4150}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*parasitology ; Ceratopogonidae/*parasitology ; Female ; Filarioidea/*classification/growth &amp; development ; Male ; Microfilariae/growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {E. kalifai n. sp. (Lemdaninae) is described from Pica pica galliae captured in France (Herault); this species resembles E. longicaudata from North American Corvidae as well as E. delicata and E. bartlettae from European Turdidae but is distinguished principally by the large size of the microfilaria (180-220 microns). The life is completed using Culicoides nubeculosus as intermediate host. The above four species of Eufilaria are very similar but the caudal extremity of the infective stage has four "languettes" in the parasites of Corvidae; it is smooth in parasites of Turdidae.}, }
@article {pmid6489764, year = {1984}, author = {Köberle, S and Spiegel, R}, title = {A long-term study with co-dergocrine mesylate (Hydergine) in healthy pensioners. Results after 3 years.}, journal = {Gerontology}, volume = {30 Suppl 1}, number = {}, pages = {3-52}, doi = {10.1159/000212674}, pmid = {6489764}, issn = {0304-324X}, mesh = {Aged ; Aging/*drug effects ; Alcohol Drinking ; Blood Chemical Analysis ; Blood Pressure/drug effects ; Cardiovascular System/drug effects ; Dihydroergotoxine/blood/*pharmacology ; Electrocardiography ; Electroencephalography ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Health Status ; Hemodynamics/*drug effects ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Psychological Tests ; *Retirement ; Smoking ; Time Factors ; }, abstract = {Started in 1976, a long-term study in healthy pensioners is now in progress in Basel, Switzerland, to investigate medical, psychological, and electrophysiological aspects of the normal aging process and to establish whether these can be influenced by drug treatment. The subjects are receiving co-dergocrine mesylate (Hydergine) 1.5 three times daily or placebo orally under double-blind conditions. At 1-year intervals each subject's case history is reviewed, a clinical examination and laboratory tests are carried out, an ECG and an EEG are recorded, and a shortened form of the Hamburg-Wechsler Intelligence Test for Adults (German version of the WAIS, i.e., the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale), the Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices Test, and the Maudsley Personality Inventory are administered. Treatment compliance is being monitored by pill counting and determination of drug plasma levels. The results after 3 years of the study are presented. The subjects included in this evaluation are those who have undergone all examinations under double-blind conditions (n = 99). During the 3-year period, 27 of the 148 subjects (64 women and 84 men, mean age 63 years) initially recruited for the study have withdrawn, mainly because serious illness has supervened. Three subjects in the placebo group and 1 in the co-dergocrine mesylate group have died. The double-blind code has been broken for medical reasons in 18 cases; these subjects have continued to participate under open conditions. During this 3-year period, the following changes have been observed: A slight but statistically significant rise in systolic and diastolic blood pressure in the sample as a whole (mean increase 12 mm Hg). A decrease in systolic blood pressure in subjects with high initial values (mean decrease 6 mm Hg in the placebo group, and 18 mm Hg in the co-dergocrine mesylate group). An increase in systolic blood pressure in subjects with low initial values (mean increase 17 mm Hg in the placebo group and 16 mm Hg in the co-dergocrine mesylate group). A significant decrease in pulse rate in all subjects (mean decrease 7 beats/min). An increase in the number of subjects with pathological ECGs. A significant decrease in mean serum creatinine and lipid levels (all subjects) and a decrease of about 70% in the number of subjects with pathologically raised values. A decrease in the number of subjects from both groups with pathological signs in the EEG.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)}, }
@article {pmid6483175, year = {1984}, author = {Vocate, DR}, title = {Differential cerebral speech lateralization in Crow Indian and Anglo children.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {22}, number = {4}, pages = {487-494}, doi = {10.1016/0028-3932(84)90043-5}, pmid = {6483175}, issn = {0028-3932}, mesh = {Child ; *Dominance, Cerebral ; Humans ; Indians, North American/*psychology ; *Language ; Montana ; Phonetics ; Semantics ; *Speech Perception ; }, abstract = {Sixty pairs of dichotically presented CV syllables were administered to matched samples of bilingual Native American Crow and monolingual Anglo subjects. While sex and grade were not significant factors, a significant variance was found between the performance of the bilingual Native American Crow and the monolingual Anglo subjects. As predicted (1) the bilingual children demonstrated a more symmetrical cerebral representation for language processing than the monolingual children; and (2) the bilingual primary Crow speakers had a greater right hemisphere involvement in receptive language processing than the monolingual English speakers. Possible factors influencing these results are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid6393746, year = {1984}, author = {Morales, P and Castro, R and Errea, E and Nociti, J}, title = {Suprazygomatic SMAS in rhytidectomy.}, journal = {Aesthetic plastic surgery}, volume = {8}, number = {3}, pages = {181-187}, pmid = {6393746}, issn = {0364-216X}, mesh = {Face/*surgery ; Facial Muscles/*surgery ; Humans ; Neck/*surgery ; *Surgery, Plastic ; Suture Techniques ; }, abstract = {A personal method for the treatment of the suprazygomatic SMAS and its results are presented. By acting on the suprazygomatic fibromuscular layer in the rhytidectomy, the surgeon can avoid tension on the cutaneous layer, and possible consequences thereof, as well as diminish the probabilities of damaging the facial nerve. At the same time, desired effects as a result of pulling on "crow's feet," wrinkles, lateral eyebrows, and wrinkles on the lateral forehead are enhanced.}, }
@article {pmid6392063, year = {1984}, author = {Hed, H}, title = {Opportunity for selection during the 17th-19th centuries in the diocese of Linköping as estimated with Crow's index in a population of clergymen's wives.}, journal = {Human heredity}, volume = {34}, number = {6}, pages = {378-387}, doi = {10.1159/000153499}, pmid = {6392063}, issn = {0001-5652}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Clergy/history ; Family Characteristics ; Female ; *Fertility ; History, 15th Century ; History, 16th Century ; History, 17th Century ; History, 18th Century ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; History, Medieval ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant Mortality ; Infant, Newborn ; Middle Aged ; Mortality ; Parity ; *Selection, Genetic ; Social Class ; Sweden ; }, abstract = {Opportunity for selection in human populations can be estimated by means of Crow's index, which is the sum of two indices, one measuring prefertile mortality and the other reproductive performance. Data on the population under study (1,616 clergymen's wives in the diocese of Linköping born 1600-1850) were obtained from a biography of all the clergymen in the diocese during the period of study. The total material was divided into 9 time periods. Crow's index was found to vary over time. This variation was influenced by fluctuations in both index components. A comparison of the indices for the period 1800-1849 with those from two other contemporary Swedish populations, Fleninge (county of Malmöhus) and Nedertorneå (county of Norrbotten), was performed. The highest index was found for Nedertorneå, the lowest for Fleninge, while the index for the Linköping population is intermediate. The bias introduced by different strategies for data collection is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid6677515, year = {1983}, author = {MacKinnon, L}, title = {Contrasting strategic and Milan therapies.}, journal = {Family process}, volume = {22}, number = {4}, pages = {425-440}, doi = {10.1111/j.1545-5300.1983.00425.x}, pmid = {6677515}, issn = {0014-7370}, mesh = {Family ; Family Therapy/*methods ; Humans ; Mental Disorders/genetics/therapy ; Models, Psychological ; Professional-Family Relations ; Psychotherapy, Brief/*methods ; }, abstract = {Three related models of therapy are often grouped together as the strategic therapies. These are brief therapy model associated with the Mental Research Institute, approaches developed by Jay Haley and Cloë Madanes, and the model developed by the Milan associates. Controversy exists, however, as to whether the Milan model should be included as a strategic therapy. It appears that the similarities among the three models can mask deeper differences, thus confounding the confusion. This paper contrast the models in their development, theory, and practice.}, }
@article {pmid6674245, year = {1983}, author = {Capitani, E and Della Pria, M and Doro, G and Spinnler, H}, title = {Is memory impairment greater than cognitive impairment in moderate chronic alcoholics?.}, journal = {Italian journal of neurological sciences}, volume = {4}, number = {4}, pages = {443-449}, pmid = {6674245}, issn = {0392-0461}, mesh = {Adult ; Alcoholism/complications/*psychology ; Cognition Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology ; Educational Status ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Memory Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology ; Middle Aged ; Task Performance and Analysis ; }, abstract = {The aims of the research were to test (i) whether moderate chronic alcoholics (A/pts) perform worse than non teetotaler controls (C/pts) either on memory or on intelligence tasks or on both, and (ii) whether there was a significant difference between verbal and spatial memory scores pointing to the claimed prevailing right hemisphere sensitivity to alcohol abuse. Great care was taken in selecting C/pts not to exaggerate by sample biasing the psychological effects of alcoholism. Intelligence was tested by means of verbal and performance Wechsler-Bellevue IQ and Raven PM47; memory was tested by means of serial immediate memory span and learning by means of verbal and spatial devices. The results support the conclusion that chronic wine alcoholism in a band of drinkers with lowish educational background and very set drinking habits impairs memory and intelligence without any significant difference. Moreover there is no evidence of a prevalent right hemisphere sensitivity to chronic alcohol addiction.}, }
@article {pmid6362436, year = {1983}, author = {Dawson, WR and Marsh, RL and Yacoe, ME}, title = {Metabolic adjustments of small passerine birds for migration and cold.}, journal = {The American journal of physiology}, volume = {245}, number = {6}, pages = {R755-67}, doi = {10.1152/ajpregu.1983.245.6.R755}, pmid = {6362436}, issn = {0002-9513}, mesh = {*Acclimatization ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Carbohydrate Metabolism ; Cold Climate ; Energy Metabolism ; Lipid Metabolism ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {Passerines (members of the order Passeriformes such as finches, chickadees, jays, and warblers) are predominantly small birds characterized by relatively intense metabolic rates. Members of this group breeding at middle or high latitudes may either evade winter cold by migration or enhance their resistance to it by acclimatization. We review the energetic consequences associated with these two modes of response. Despite their apparent dissimilarity, migration and winter acclimatization both depend on substantial aerobic endurance, and both involve extensive power outputs by the flight muscles in locomotion or shivering. Such power outputs entail extensive deposition and catabolism of fat. Information available on these processes and their control in passerine birds is discussed. Knowledge of them is still in a formative stage, but it is already clear that aerobic capacity of passerines is stable at a high level throughout the year. However, changes are observed in the activity of certain enzymes involved in the catabolism of fats and carbohydrates. Full interpretation of these findings must await additional research. Nevertheless it is evident that the complex processes of migration and winter acclimatization are intimately linked with the metabolic properties of the highly aerobic skeletal muscle contained within the flight apparatus of passerines.}, }
@article {pmid6668460, year = {1983}, author = {Farrell, AP and MacLeod, KR and Driedzic, WR and Wood, S}, title = {Cardiac performance in the in situ perfused fish heart during extracellular acidosis: interactive effects of adrenaline.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {107}, number = {}, pages = {415-429}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.107.1.415}, pmid = {6668460}, issn = {0022-0949}, mesh = {Acidosis/*physiopathology ; Animals ; Cardiac Output/drug effects ; Epinephrine/*pharmacology ; Fishes/*physiology ; Heart/*physiopathology ; Perfusion ; Stroke Volume/drug effects ; }, abstract = {The physiological integrity of the in situ perfused heart of the ocean pout was established by its ability to maintain cardiac output (Q) over a range of work loads, and by the dependence of Q upon the filling pressure of the heart. Similar observations have been reported previously for the in situ perfused heart of the sea raven. Physiological levels of extracellular acidosis (pH 7.6/1% CO2 and pH 7.4/2% CO2) significantly depressed cardiac performance in sea raven and ocean pout hearts in situ. Negative chronotropic and inotropic responses were observed. Adrenaline (AD; 10(-7) M) under control conditions (pH 7.9/0.5% CO2) produced a sustained tachycardia. The tachycardia reduced filling time of the ventricle and stroke volume was compromised because of the constant preload to the heart. Consequently, AD produced only an initial, transient increase in stroke volume and Q. Thereafter, stroke volume was reduced in proportion with the increase in heart rate, and Q remained unchanged. The combined challenge of extracellular acidosis and AD demonstrated interactive effects between AD and acidosis in situ. Q and power output were maintained in both species at both levels of extracellular acidosis during the combined challenge. Thus AD alone can maintain (but not improve upon) basal Q during extracellular acidosis. The effects of extracellular acidosis, circulating catecholamines and venous return pressure to the heart are discussed in relation to the regulation of Q following exhaustive exercise.}, }
@article {pmid6666328, year = {1983}, author = {Sotskaia, MN and Molodkina, LN and Kuznetsova, LM}, title = {[Effect of animal rearing conditions on their ability to solve extrapolation problems].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {33}, number = {6}, pages = {1048-1053}, pmid = {6666328}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animal Husbandry/*methods ; Animals ; Birds/physiology ; Cats ; *Environment ; Foxes/physiology ; Individuality ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Raccoons/physiology ; Sensory Deprivation/*physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The ability for elementary rational activity (Krushinsky, 1977) was analysed in various animals (crows, foxes, cats, rats). The animals raised in "enriched" environment solved an extrapolation problem as successfully as those raised in "impoverished" environment. The question requires further investigation.}, }
@article {pmid6668117, year = {1983}, author = {De Obaldia, R and Parsons, OA and Yohman, R}, title = {Minimal brain dysfunction symptoms claimed by primary and secondary alcoholics: relation to cognitive functioning.}, journal = {The International journal of neuroscience}, volume = {20}, number = {3-4}, pages = {173-181}, doi = {10.3109/00207458308986571}, pmid = {6668117}, issn = {0020-7454}, support = {AA 04164/AA/NIAAA NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Alcoholism/*diagnosis/psychology ; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/*diagnosis/psychology ; Cognition Disorders/*diagnosis ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Psychological Tests ; Psychometrics ; }, abstract = {A group of chronic alcoholics were classified as Primary or Secondary alcoholics according to a self-administering questionnaire. Primary, compared to Secondary, alcoholics claimed a significantly higher number of childhood symptoms associated with the Hyperkinetic and/or the Minimal Brain Dysfunction (Hk/MBD) Syndromes. Primary alcoholics also performed significantly poorer on the Shipley and Raven tests than Secondary alcoholics and had more severe alcoholic dependence scores. High Hk/MBD patients performed more poorly than Low Hk/MBD patients on the Shipley and Raven tests. The results support the hypothesis that a childhood history of Hk/MBD might be a predisposing factor to a more severe type of alcoholism. The results also suggest that certain alcoholics may have premorbid deficits in cognitive functions.}, }
@article {pmid6359777, year = {1983}, author = {Niida, M and Makino, S and Ishiguro, N and Sato, G and Nishio, T}, title = {Genetic properties of conjugative R plasmids in Escherichia coli and Salmonella isolated from feral and domestic pigeons, crows and kites.}, journal = {Zentralblatt fur Bakteriologie, Mikrobiologie und Hygiene. 1. Abt. Originale A, Medizinische Mikrobiologie, Infektionskrankheiten und Parasitologie = International journal of microbiology and hygiene. A, Medical microbiology, infectious...}, volume = {255}, number = {2-3}, pages = {271-284}, pmid = {6359777}, issn = {0174-3031}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Birds/*microbiology ; Conjugation, Genetic ; Escherichia coli/drug effects/*genetics/isolation &amp; purification ; *R Factors ; Salmonella/drug effects/*genetics ; Salmonella typhimurium/*genetics ; Temperature ; }, abstract = {A total of 62 conjugative R plasmids detected in 48 Escherichia coli and 19 conjugative R plasmids in 16 Salmonella strains from domestic (carrier and emerald) and feral pigeons, crows (Japanese jungle crows and carrion crows) and black kite, were examined for genetic properties. Out of the 62 E. coli R plasmids examined for fertility inhibition (Fi), 29 (46.8%) were Fi+, and the remainder were Fi-. Among the 62 R plasmids, 16 (25.8%) were classified into incompatibility (Inc) group FII, 15 (24.2%) into I alpha, 7 (11.3%) into H1 and 2 (3.2%) into N. The remaining 23 R plasmids could not be classified in this study. Among the 19 Salmonella R plasmids, 4 showed thermosensitive (ts) transfer. Out of the 18 plasmids tested, 13 (72.2%) including 4 ts-R plasmids were Fi-, and the remaining 5 (27.8%) were Fi+. Five R plasmids containing 4 Fi- were IncI alpha, while 4 ts-R plasmids belonged to IncH1 (1 R plasmid) and H2 (3 R plasmids). The remainings were not tested. In E. coli strains, IncFII and I alpha were widely (4 of 6 lots of birds, respectively) distributed, followed by N (2 lots) and H1 (1 lot). IncN R plasmid was detected from domestic pigeons and crows, but not from feral pigeons. In Salmonella strains from 5 lots of birds, IncFII and N plasmids which were detected from E. coli were not found, but IncH2 was detected from domestic pigeons (1 lot) and kite (1 lot). IncI alpha was detected from feral pigeons (1 lot) and kite (1 lot). The potential transfer of R plasmids between Salmonella and E. coli, and of dissemination of the plasmids among the free-flying birds, animals and humans is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid6227525, year = {1983}, author = {Revazov, AA}, title = {[Population genetics of the inhabitants of the European northern RSFSR. VI. The dynamics of the genetic load].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {19}, number = {9}, pages = {1560-1565}, pmid = {6227525}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Consanguinity ; Female ; Gene Frequency ; *Genetics, Population ; Genotype ; Humans ; Male ; Pregnancy ; Rural Population ; Russia ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {The dynamics of the lethal equivalents in two rural populations of Archangelsk regions during the periods from 1930 to 1953 and from 1954 to 1970 was investigated. The outcomes of 1617 pregnancies for 500 couples were analysed. The coefficient of inbreeding varied fo these couples from 0.001 to 0.08. For computing the genetic load, we followed the the methodology suggested by Morton, Crow and Muller in S. Smith's modification. The importance of comprehensive determination of inbreeding coefficient for reliable estimation of the genetic load was demonstrated. By comparing the two groups, it was shown that the coefficient B diminished approximately twice and the B/A ratio increased in both populations also by the factor of two. It is supposed that the diminishing of the number of lethal equivalents can be explained by a decrease in natural selection pressure. It is also supposed, that the segregational load is more sensitive to the decrease in natural selection pressure.'}, }
@article {pmid6886487, year = {1983}, author = {Schmid, GP and Kornblatt, AN and Connors, CA and Patton, C and Carney, J and Hobbs, J and Kaufmann, AF}, title = {Clinically mild tularemia associated with tick-borne Francisella tularensis.}, journal = {The Journal of infectious diseases}, volume = {148}, number = {1}, pages = {63-67}, doi = {10.1093/infdis/148.1.63}, pmid = {6886487}, issn = {0022-1899}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Antibodies, Bacterial/analysis ; Arachnid Vectors/microbiology/*parasitology ; Bites and Stings/complications ; Child ; Dermacentor/microbiology/*parasitology ; Disease Outbreaks/*epidemiology ; Dogs ; Francisella tularensis/immunology/pathogenicity ; Humans ; Montana ; Ticks/*parasitology ; Tularemia/*epidemiology/parasitology/transmission ; Virulence ; }, abstract = {Between May 9 and July 3, 1979, 12 cases of glandular or ulceroglandular tularemia occurred in residents of the Crow Indian Reservation in southcentral Montana; only 13 cases had been reported from this geographic area in the preceding 25 years. The illness was mild, characterized by fever and cervical or occipital adenopathy. Systemic symptoms were self-limited although residual lymphadenopathy was common. Francisella tularensis was isolated from ticks (Dermacentor variabilis), the suspected vector. The strains of F tularensis did not ferment glycerol and thus were identified as type B rather than the more virulent type A. None of 83 adults hospitalized in an urban area 50 miles from the reservation had agglutination titers of antibody to F tularensis of greater than or equal to 1:40 compared with eight of 77 patients at the reservation hospital (P less than 0.01). Mild tularemia in reservation residents may have gone unrecognized; similar illness due to type B F tularensis may occur elsewhere.}, }
@article {pmid6863395, year = {1983}, author = {Stya, M and Axelrod, D}, title = {Mobility and detergent extractability of acetylcholine receptors on cultured rat myotubes: a correlation.}, journal = {The Journal of cell biology}, volume = {97}, number = {1}, pages = {48-51}, pmid = {6863395}, issn = {0021-9525}, support = {NS 14565/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; NS 17017/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Azides/pharmacology ; Cell Survival ; Cells, Cultured ; Diffusion ; Muscles/*analysis/cytology ; Octoxynol ; Polyethylene Glycols/pharmacology ; Rats ; Receptors, Cholinergic/isolation &amp; purification/*physiology ; Sodium Azide ; }, abstract = {On aneurally cultured rat primary myotubes, 10% of the acetylcholine receptors (AChR) are found aggregated and immobilized in endogenous clusters. The remaining receptors are diffusely distributed over the cell membrane and the majority of these are free to diffuse in the plane of the membrane. This study correlates the mobility of AChR (as measured with the fluorescence photobleaching recovery technique, FPR) with the detergent extractability of this receptor. Gentle detergent extraction of the cells removes the lipid membrane and the soluble cytoplasmic proteins but leaves an intact cytoskeletal framework on the substrate. Two studies indicate a correlation between mobility and extractability: (a) mobility of diffusely distributed AChR decreases as myotubes age in culture; previous work showed that extractability of AChR decreases as myotubes age in culture (Prives, J., C. Christian, S. Penman, and K. Olden, 1980, In Tissue Culture in Neurobiology, E. Giacobini, A. Vernadakis, and A. Shahar, editors, Raven Press, New York, 35-52); (b) mobility of clustered AChR increases when cells are treated with metabolic inhibitors such as sodium azide (NaN3); extractability of clustered AChR also increases with this treatment. From these results we suggest the involvement of a cytoskeletal framework in the immobilization of AChR on the cell surface.}, }
@article {pmid6357185, year = {1983}, author = {Hirsh, DC and Ikeda, JS and Martin, LD and Kelly, BJ and Ghazikhanian, GY}, title = {R plasmid-mediated gentamicin resistance in salmonellae isolated from turkeys and their environment.}, journal = {Avian diseases}, volume = {27}, number = {3}, pages = {766-772}, pmid = {6357185}, issn = {0005-2086}, mesh = {Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Conjugation, Genetic ; DNA, Bacterial/analysis ; DNA, Circular/analysis ; Drug Resistance, Microbial ; Escherichia coli/drug effects/genetics ; Gentamicins/*pharmacology ; *R Factors ; Salmonella/drug effects/*genetics ; Salmonella arizonae/drug effects/genetics ; Species Specificity ; Turkeys/*microbiology ; }, abstract = {Gentamicin-resistant salmonellae were isolated from turkey poults, hatching eggs, and litter on three unrelated farms and from a scrub jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) on a fourth farm unrelated to the other three. The isolates were Salmonella arizonae from three of the farms (poults, eggs, scrub jay) and S. thompson (litter) from the fourth farm. The genes responsible for gentamicin resistance were located on the same conjugal plasmid. This plasmid also encoded resistance to kanamycin, streptomycin, ampicillin, and sulfadiazine.}, }
@article {pmid6621054, year = {1983}, author = {Griffin, M}, title = {How much evolutionary advantage does sex confer?.}, journal = {Journal of theoretical biology}, volume = {102}, number = {3}, pages = {447-458}, doi = {10.1016/0022-5193(83)90380-6}, pmid = {6621054}, issn = {0022-5193}, mesh = {Biological Evolution ; *Models, Genetic ; Mutation ; Recombination, Genetic ; Reproduction ; *Sex ; }, abstract = {In discussing the long term advantage of sex, Crow and Kimura (1965) and Maynard Smith (1971) have argued that the advantage of a reproductive system allowing recombination (sex) is greatest for large populations. However the validity of this conclusion depends upon the model used for evolution. We propose two simple models: the bootstrap model, where the number of loci at which favourable mutations may take place remains constant over long time periods; and the environment-led model, where evolution is at a constant rate dictated by the environment (and does not depend on the organism's ability to evolve). While the bootstrap model leads to conclusions similar to those mentioned above, the conclusions for environment-led evolution are the opposite: as the size of the population decreases the advantage for sex increases.}, }
@article {pmid6605734, year = {1983}, author = {Masutani-Noda, T and Yamada, E}, title = {The mosaic pattern of the inner surface of vertebrate retina.}, journal = {Archivum histologicum Japonicum = Nihon soshikigaku kiroku}, volume = {46}, number = {3}, pages = {393-400}, doi = {10.1679/aohc.46.393}, pmid = {6605734}, issn = {0004-0681}, mesh = {Animals ; Basement Membrane/ultrastructure ; Birds/anatomy &amp; histology ; Cattle/anatomy &amp; histology ; Humans ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Rana catesbeiana/anatomy &amp; histology ; Retina/*ultrastructure ; Species Specificity ; Swine/anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {Retinas of various vertebrates (bullfrog, crow, bull, pig and human) were treated with HCl and collagenase for removal of the basement membrane. The exposed basal surface of Müller cells was observed under a scanning electron microscope. In the nerve fiber layer, the Müller cells divide into small basal processes which extend towards the basal surface, where they terminate with a mosaic pattern. This pattern varies somewhat from species to species and from region to region of the retina.}, }
@article {pmid6876379, year = {1983}, author = {Frey, MA and Siervogel, RM}, title = {Cardiovascular response to a mentally stressful stimulus.}, journal = {Japanese heart journal}, volume = {24}, number = {3}, pages = {315-323}, doi = {10.1536/ihj.24.315}, pmid = {6876379}, issn = {0021-4868}, support = {R01-HL-23194/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Blood Pressure ; Child ; Electrocardiography ; Female ; Forearm/blood supply ; Heart Rate ; *Hemodynamics ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Regional Blood Flow ; *Stress, Psychological ; Stroke Volume ; }, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to investigate multivariable cardiovascular responses to a non-mathematical mental task. Fifty-two subjects, 8 to 69 years of age, were monitored at rest and while attempting to solve a Raven's matrix test without prodding or pressure from the experimentors. Adults (greater than or equal to 18 years) had higher blood pressures (BP) and longer pre-ejection periods (PEP) at rest than did the children. Women had higher resting heart rates (HR) than men. The task induced significant increases in systolic and diastolic BP and HR in adults and children, with the adults exhibiting larger BP responses. During the stressful stimulus significant decreases in left ventricular ejection time occurred in men and women, and significant increases in forearm blood flow occurred in men. The stability in PEP during the stressful period when both BP and HR were increased is evidence of enhanced contractility brought on by the stress. In general, men and women responded similarly. Thus, even a mild, non-mathematical stress of short duration elicits the multiple cardiovascular responses, including increases in BP, HR, muscle blood flow, and contractility, which are observed with more threatening tasks.}, }
@article {pmid6622939, year = {1983}, author = {Nichelli, P and Pollam, A and Sorgato, P}, title = {[Subclinical deficit in the memory of chronic alcoholics. Comparison between 2 learning tests].}, journal = {Rivista di patologia nervosa e mentale}, volume = {103}, number = {3}, pages = {133-145}, pmid = {6622939}, issn = {0035-6433}, mesh = {Adult ; Alcohol Amnestic Disorder/*diagnosis ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Psychological Tests ; *Verbal Learning ; }, abstract = {Normal subjects and chronic alcoholics without clinical evidence of memory disorders have been compared on two tasks of verbal learning of a word list, one administered with the classical procedure and the other with the "selective reminding" technique developed by Bushke. Results showed that the selective reminding technique has the same discriminative power as the classical procedure: both brought out a remarkable learning deficit in chronic alcoholics. The selective reminding procedure is easier to administer and can distinguish between storage and retrieval deficits; it seems therefore preferable for diagnostic purposes. Practical criteria to distinguish a normal from pathologic performance on this test are suggested. Alcoholics were also inferior on Raven Progressive Matrices. The scope of the impairment produced by chronic alcohol consumption is wider than suggested by clinical observations and deserves careful assessment.}, }
@article {pmid6192295, year = {1983}, author = {Lvov, DK and Zhdanov, VM}, title = {Persistence of genes of epidemical influenza viruses in natural populations in the USSR.}, journal = {Medical biology}, volume = {61}, number = {2}, pages = {83-91}, pmid = {6192295}, issn = {0302-2137}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Domestic ; Animals, Wild ; Epitopes/analysis ; *Genes, Viral ; Hemagglutinins, Viral/analysis ; Humans ; Influenza A virus/genetics/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Neuraminidase/analysis ; USSR ; Water Microbiology ; }, abstract = {Antigenic analogues of all known epidemic human viruses (H1, H2 and H3) have been isolated from natural sources in the USSR. A 5 to 25-year persistence of genes coding haemagglutinins of these viruses in the genome structures of natural populations of viruses have been established. The viruses are more commonly isolated from water birds (ducks, gulls, terns, coots, shelducks, sandpipers), and the circulation of influenza viruses in nature among pigeons, crows, chickens and other birds have been identified. The viruses have been also isolated from bats, whales, squirrels, deer, fishes and lake water. The exchange between the genofond of natural populations of influenza A viruses and epidemic influenza viruses is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid6854198, year = {1983}, author = {Hudson, DM and Bernstein, MH}, title = {Gas exchange and energy cost of flight in the white-necked raven, Corvus cryptoleucus.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {103}, number = {}, pages = {121-130}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.103.1.121}, pmid = {6854198}, issn = {0022-0949}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; *Flight, Animal ; Oxygen Consumption ; Respiration ; }, abstract = {Energy expenditure during steady-state, wind tunnel flights was estimated from O2 and CO2 exchange in five white-necked ravens (Corvus cryptoleucus, mean mass, 0.48 kg) at air speeds of 8-11 m/s. Power input was closely similar to allometric predictions based on data from other species of smaller birds. It increased significantly with air speed and flight angle above horizontal, and decreased with increasing angles below horizontal. Maximum power input reached seven times the preflight value measured under resting but not basal conditions, 14 times the previously measured basal values and three times the calculated maximum for a similar sized running mammal. Energy cost to travel 1 km decreased with increasing air speed. These trends are similar to those previously observed in smaller birds.}, }
@article {pmid6838832, year = {1983}, author = {Powell, JR and Castellino, FJ}, title = {Amino acid sequence analysis of the asparagine-288 region of the carbohydrate variants of human plasminogen.}, journal = {Biochemistry}, volume = {22}, number = {4}, pages = {923-927}, doi = {10.1021/bi00273a033}, pmid = {6838832}, issn = {0006-2960}, support = {HL-13423/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Asparagine ; Carboxypeptidase B ; Carboxypeptidases ; *Genetic Variation ; Glycopeptides/analysis ; Humans ; Oligosaccharides/genetics ; Peptide Fragments/analysis ; Plasminogen/*genetics ; Trypsin ; }, abstract = {The amino acid sequences of the two major carbohydrate variants in the region of Asn288 have been determined. A peptide isolated from plasminogen variant 1, which contains a complex-type Asn288-linked oligosaccharide, was found to possess the amino acid sequence-Ser280-Ala-Gln-Thr-Pro-His-Thr-His-Asn(CHO)-Arg-Thr290-Pro-Glu-, in agreement with the previously published sequence [Sottrup-Jensen, L., Claeys, H., Zajdel, M., Petersen, T. E., &amp; Magnusson, S. (1978) in Progress in Chemical Fibrinolysis and Thrombolysis (Davidson, J. F., Rowan, R. M., Samama, M. M., &amp; Desnoyers, P. C., Eds.) Vol. 3, pp 191-209, Raven Press, New York]. A similar peptide isolated from plasminogen variant 2 did not contain oligosaccharide but possessed an amino acid sequence identical with the corresponding variant 1 peptide. Thus, the basis for the lack of the complex-type oligosaccharide in human plasminogen variant 2 does not reside in substitution of essential amino acid residues in the region of the Asn288-linked glycosylation site.}, }
@article {pmid6826764, year = {1983}, author = {Leftoff, S}, title = {Psychopathology in the light of brain injury: a case study.}, journal = {Journal of clinical neuropsychology}, volume = {5}, number = {1}, pages = {51-63}, doi = {10.1080/01688638308401150}, pmid = {6826764}, issn = {0165-0475}, mesh = {Adult ; Aphasia/psychology ; Brain Damage, Chronic/*psychology ; Cerebral Infarction/*psychology ; Cognition Disorders/psychology ; Concept Formation ; Humans ; Interpersonal Relations ; Male ; Mental Recall ; Neurocognitive Disorders/*psychology ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Paranoid Disorders/psychology ; Social Adjustment ; Social Isolation ; Wechsler Scales ; }, abstract = {A case study of late onset psychopathology following brain injury is presented to illustrate the effects of cognitive and perceptual loss on personality functions. Based on Hughling Jackson's (1884/1958) notion of the duality of the symptom, we proposed a model of the development and process of psychopathology following brain injury, which views the development of the psychopathological behavior as a product of acquired cognitive and perceptual defects and ensuing compensatory strategies. For the present case study of paranoia, this involved defects in long-term memory, conceptual ability, and compensatory strategies of confabulation and self-referential orientation. Neuropsychological testing established defects in concept formation tasks including the Raven Progressive Matrices, the Leiter International Performance Scale, and the Wisconsin Card Sorting test, as well as long-term memory defects where cognitive reorganization was needed. The paranoid process was understood as a product of disordered conceptual ability in interpersonal situations, and a self-referential conceptual classification system, which took time, and changed social relations, to emerge. The implications of this model for psychotherapy with brain injury is elaborated in our case study, in which psychotherapeutic intervention included training on interpersonal hypothesis formation.}, }
@article {pmid6338824, year = {1983}, author = {Kapperud, G and Rosef, O}, title = {Avian wildlife reservoir of Campylobacter fetus subsp. jejuni, Yersinia spp., and Salmonella spp. in Norway.}, journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology}, volume = {45}, number = {2}, pages = {375-380}, pmid = {6338824}, issn = {0099-2240}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*microbiology ; Campylobacter/*isolation &amp; purification ; Campylobacter fetus/*isolation &amp; purification ; Cloaca/microbiology ; Norway ; Salmonella/*isolation &amp; purification ; Salmonella typhimurium/isolation &amp; purification ; Yersinia/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Cloacal swabs from 540 wild-living birds were cultured for Campylobacter fetus subsp. jejuni, Yersinia spp., and Salmonella spp. The carrier rates detected were as follows: C. fetus subsp. jejuni, 28.4%; Yersinia spp., 1.2%; and Salmonella spp., 0.8%. All birds were apparently healthy when captured. C. fetus subsp. jejuni was isolated from 11 of the 40 bird species examined. Among birds inhabiting the city of Oslo, the highest isolation rate was found in crows (Corvus corone cornix) (89.8%), followed by gulls (Larus spp.) (50.0%) and domestic pigeons (Columba livia domesticus) (4.2%). The gulls and crows scavenge on refuse dumps. High carrier rates were also detected among the following birds from nonurban, coastal areas: puffin (Fratercula arctica) (51.3%), common tern (Sterna hirundo) (5.6%), common gull (Larus canus) (18.9%), black-headed gull (Larus ridibundus) (13.2%), and herring gull (Larus argentatus) (4.2%). The list of species harboring C. fetus subsp. jejuni also includes the Ural owl (Strix uralensis), goldeneye (Bucephala clangula), and reed bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus). The following five Yersinia strains were isolated: Y. kristensenii (two strains), Y. intermedia (two strains), and "Yersinia X2" (one strain). Four strains belonging to the genus Salmonella were isolated from three different species of gulls. These isolates were identified as S. typhimurium, S. indiana, and S. djugu. The results indicate that campylobacters are a normal component of the intestinal flora in several bird species, whereas Salmonella and Yersinia carriers are more sporadic.}, }
@article {pmid6840695, year = {1983}, author = {Oberthür, W and Wiesner, H and Braunitzer, G}, title = {[Primary structure of alpha and beta chains from the major hemoglobin component of the magpie goose (Anseranas semipalmata, Anatidae)].}, journal = {Hoppe-Seyler's Zeitschrift fur physiologische Chemie}, volume = {364}, number = {1}, pages = {51-59}, doi = {10.1515/bchm2.1983.364.1.51}, pmid = {6840695}, issn = {0018-4888}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Geese/*blood ; *Hemoglobins/genetics ; Hemoglobins, Abnormal ; Humans ; Macromolecular Substances ; Mutation ; Peptide Fragments/analysis ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The amino acid sequence of the alpha and beta chains from the major hemoglobin component (HbA) of Australian Magpie Goose (Anseranas semipalmata) is given. The minor component with the alpha D chains was detected, but only found in low concentrations. By homologous comparison, Greylag Goose hemoglobin (Anser anser) and Australian Magpie Goose alpha chains differ by 13 amino acids or 17 nucleotide (4 two point mutations) exchanges, beta chains by 6 exchanges. Seven alpha 1 beta 1 contacts are modified by substitutions in positions alpha 30-(B11)Glu leads to Gln, alpha 34(B15)Thr leads to Gln, alpha 35(B16)-Ala leads to Thr, alpha 36(B17)Tyr leads to Phe, beta 55(D6)Leu leads to Ile, beta 119(GH2)Ala leads to Ser and beta 125(H3)Glu leads to Asp. Further, one alpha 1 beta 2 contact point was changed in beta 39(C5)Gln leads to Glu. Mutation in this position, except in two abnormal human hemoglobins, was not found in any species. Amino acid exchanges between hemoglobin of Australian Magpie Goose and other birds are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid6838386, year = {1983}, author = {Varaksin, AA and Deridovich, II and Shvaleva, NI}, title = {[Gonad innervation in bivalve mollusks].}, journal = {Arkhiv anatomii, gistologii i embriologii}, volume = {84}, number = {1}, pages = {43-49}, pmid = {6838386}, issn = {0004-1947}, mesh = {Adrenergic Fibers/cytology ; Animals ; Axons/ultrastructure ; Cholinergic Fibers/cytology ; Gonads/*innervation ; Microscopy, Electron ; Mollusca/*physiology ; }, abstract = {In marine Lamellibranchia--Patinopecten yessoensis (Jay) and Crenomytilus grayanus (Dunker)--neural cells, small ganglia and neural fibres have been revealed in the gonad wall. The sensitive and effector parts are presented by rather variable morphological formations. By means of histochemical and ultrastructural investigations, functional affiliation of axons is revealed and their relations to tissue elements of the gonad are demonstrated. The effector neural apparatus is formed by peptidergic, cholinergic and monoaminergic axons. Most of the axons, forming a thick network, are monoaminergic. There are some essential differences in the structure of the monoaminergic plexuses in juvenile and mature individuals. No specialized membrane differentiations, specific for sinapses, have been found.}, }
@article {pmid6829717, year = {1983}, author = {Long, KA}, title = {The experience of repeated and traumatic loss among Crow Indian children: response patterns and intervention strategies.}, journal = {The American journal of orthopsychiatry}, volume = {53}, number = {1}, pages = {116-126}, doi = {10.1111/j.1939-0025.1983.tb03356.x}, pmid = {6829717}, issn = {0002-9432}, mesh = {Art Therapy ; Child ; Death ; Denial, Psychological ; Family ; Female ; Grief ; Humans ; Indians, North American/*psychology ; Interpersonal Relations ; Male ; Montana ; *Object Attachment ; Psychotherapy/*methods ; }, abstract = {Crow Indian children residing on the Montana Reservation appear to experience traumatic losses of family members and friends with much greater frequency than children in the population at large. Responses to these losses include interpersonal distancing, and sadness without apparent anger. Assessment and clinical intervention are considered within the sociocultural context of Indian child client and white, middle-class clinician.}, }
@article {pmid6667891, year = {1983}, author = {Lilja, C}, title = {A comparative study of postnatal growth and organ development in some species of birds.}, journal = {Growth}, volume = {47}, number = {4}, pages = {317-339}, pmid = {6667891}, issn = {0017-4793}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/anatomy &amp; histology/*growth &amp; development ; Organ Specificity ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {An hypothesis has been formulated stating that the rate at which postnatal growth proceeds is at least partly determined by the distribution of growth between different organs. In order to test the hypothesis a series of studies of organ growth has been undertaken in some birds with widely varying growth rate capacities (geese, quail, turkeys, fieldfares and jackdaws). With regard to nidifugous birds the data show that the growth pattern of the goose, a species which has a high growth rate capacity, is characterized by a rapid early development of the digestive organs and the liver whereas that of the quail and the turkey, species which have low growth rate capacities, is characterized by a rapid early development of the pectorals and the feathers. The growth pattern of the nidicolous species, the fieldfare and the jackdaw which also show high growth rate capacities, is similar to that of the goose. These results are in close agreement with the hypothesis.}, }
@article {pmid6639008, year = {1983}, author = {Sen, A and Jensen, AR and Sen, AK and Arora, I}, title = {Correlation between reaction time and intelligence in psychometrically similar groups in America and India.}, journal = {Applied research in mental retardation}, volume = {4}, number = {2}, pages = {139-152}, doi = {10.1016/0270-3092(83)90006-1}, pmid = {6639008}, issn = {0270-3092}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Female ; Humans ; India ; Intellectual Disability/*psychology ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Psychometrics ; *Reaction Time ; United States ; }, abstract = {The relationship between psychometrically tested reasoning ability, or general intelligence (Raven's Progressive Matrices), short-term memory (forward and backward digit span), and measures of reaction time (RT), including visual and auditory simple RT and four degrees of choice RT, was investigated in groups of unskilled workers, mostly of below average, borderline, or retarded mental ability, selected in the United States and in India. Both groups showed parallel phenomena with respect to the relative difficulty of the various RT tests, their factor structure, and their theoretically expected correlations with psychometric intelligence, although the correlations were lower (and generally nonsignificant) in the Indian group, most likely because of this group's greater restriction in range of ability. The findings, overall, are consistent with other recent studies of RT and intelligence, which indicate that our standard IQ tests reflect basic cognitive processes, particularly speed of information processing, involved in individual differences in intellectual ability, and not merely differences in specific acquired knowledge, skills, or cultural background.}, }
@article {pmid6609014, year = {1983}, author = {Bárdos, V and Sixl, W and Wisidagama, CL and Halouzka, J and Stünzner, D and Hubálek, Z and Withalm, H}, title = {Prevalence of arbovirus antibodies in sera of animals in Sri Lanka.}, journal = {Bulletin of the World Health Organization}, volume = {61}, number = {6}, pages = {987-990}, pmid = {6609014}, issn = {0042-9686}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Bacterial/*immunology ; Arboviruses/*immunology ; Birds/immunology ; Cattle/immunology ; Dogs/immunology ; Goats/immunology ; Sri Lanka ; Viral Plaque Assay ; }, abstract = {The sera of cattle, goats, dogs and crows from the Colombo area were tested for antibodies against seven arboviruses of the families Togaviridae and Bunyaviridae by a plaque-reduction neutralization microtest, using Vero cells and a stable line of pig kidney (PS) cells. The overall percentages of positive sera among the mammals were: Bhanja, 92.5%; Calovo (Batai), 30.6%; Sindbis, 13.8%; Langat, 4.8%; Tahyna, 3.9%; West Nile, 1.6%. Among the birds, 23.8% had antibodies to Bhanja virus and 9.5% to Sindbis. No antibodies against tick-borne encephalitis virus were found. The results show that at least two members of the Bunyaviridae family (Bhanja and Calovo) are highly endemic in Colombo.}, }
@article {pmid6413270, year = {1983}, author = {Alvarez, MA and Barroso, CC and Arce, B}, title = {Psychological characterization of testicular feminization syndrome.}, journal = {Reproduccion}, volume = {7}, number = {1-2}, pages = {9-15}, pmid = {6413270}, issn = {0303-5220}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Androgen-Insensitivity Syndrome/blood/*psychology ; Body Image ; Follicle Stimulating Hormone/blood ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Luteinizing Hormone/blood ; MMPI ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Sexual Behavior ; }, abstract = {Ten cases with testicular feminization syndrome (TFS) diagnosed at the National Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, were studied. The patients were interviewed and subjected to the following psychological tests: Raven's Progressive Matrices, the MMPI, the 16PF, and the TAT. Laboratory determinations included: nuclear chromatin, karyotype, FHS, LH, estradiol, testosterone and nitrogen retention test. Intellectual achievement was found normal, and as far as psychological stability is concerned (MMPI) there was no common profile typical of the group. Psychosexual attitudes showed alterations related to acceptance of body image, fears to be unable to maintain the stability of the couple, and lack of a strong maternal drive. Personality profile manifested two outstanding traits in the group: Dominance (E+) and Shrewdness (N+), the former being remarkably high for a female population. A hypothesis is advanced in regard to the psychological alterations of the possible role of partial androgenization of the central nervous system in these patients.}, }
@article {pmid6307227, year = {1983}, author = {Annuar, BO and Mackenzie, JS and Lalor, PA}, title = {Isolation and characterization of avipoxviruses from wild birds in Western Australia.}, journal = {Archives of virology}, volume = {76}, number = {3}, pages = {217-229}, pmid = {6307227}, issn = {0304-8608}, mesh = {Animal Population Groups/*microbiology ; Animals ; Animals, Wild/*microbiology ; Antigens, Viral/analysis ; Australia ; Birds/*microbiology ; Culture Techniques ; Immunodiffusion ; Microscopy, Electron ; Poxviridae/growth &amp; development/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Poxviridae Infections/microbiology/*veterinary ; Warts/microbiology ; }, abstract = {Avipoxviruses were isolated from wart-like lesions in an Australian magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen) and a silvereye (Zosterops lateralis), and the poxvirus aetiology of wart-like lesions in a magpie-lark (Grallina cyanoleuca) was confirmed. The three viruses produced typical pock lesions on the chorioallantoic membrane of embryonated eggs and were able to replicate in trypsin-dispersed chick embryo fibroblast cultures but not confluent monolayer cultures. Pock neutralization and immunodiffusion studies showed that the three wild bird isolates were distinct from fowlpox, although antigenically closer to fowlpox than pigeonpox. The magpie and silvereye isolates were more closely related to each other than to the magpie-lark isolate.}, }
@article {pmid6296443, year = {1983}, author = {Mertz, JE and Murphy, A and Barkan, A}, title = {Mutants deleted in the agnogene of simian virus 40 define a new complementation group.}, journal = {Journal of virology}, volume = {45}, number = {1}, pages = {36-46}, pmid = {6296443}, issn = {0022-538X}, support = {CA-07175/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; CA-22443/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; T32 CA-09135/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Cell Line ; Chlorocebus aethiops ; *Genes, Viral ; Genetic Complementation Test ; Mutation ; Simian virus 40/*genetics/physiology ; Viral Proteins/analysis/*genetics/physiology ; }, abstract = {Analysis of the DNA sequence of the late leader region of simian virus 40 indicates that it might encode a 61-amino acid, highly basic protein, LP-1. Mutants deleted in this region are viable, but they produce infectious progeny more slowly than wild-type virus in established monkey cells. On the basis of the rates of appearance and the sizes of mixed plaques formed after cotransfections with pairs of mutants, we found that mutants defective in the synthesis of LP-1 complementation was also observed in infections with virions and was bidirectional. Therefore, these mutants define a new complementation group, group G. In addition, a protein of the appropriate molecular weight for LP-1 (approximately 8 X 10(3)) was synthesized by wild-type virus-infected cells but not by mock-infected or group G gene mutant-infected cells. This protein, whose identity has been established definitively by Jay et al. (Nature (London) 291:346-349, 1981), was synthesized at a high rate at late times after infection, was present predominantly in the cytoplasmic fraction of cells, possessed a fairly short half-life, and was absent from mature virions. Once formed, virions of group G gene mutants behaved biologically and physically like virions of wild-type virus. On the basis of these findings and other known properties of LP-1 and mutants defective in LP-1 synthesis, we hypothesize that LP-1 functions to facilitate virion assembly, possibly by serving as a nonreusable scaffolding protein.}, }
@article {pmid6139222, year = {1983}, author = {Driedzic, WR}, title = {The fish heart as a model system for the study of myoglobin.}, journal = {Comparative biochemistry and physiology. A, Comparative physiology}, volume = {76}, number = {3}, pages = {487-493}, doi = {10.1016/0300-9629(83)90451-6}, pmid = {6139222}, issn = {0300-9629}, support = {S07 RR05764-07/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; Energy Metabolism ; Fishes/*metabolism ; In Vitro Techniques ; *Models, Biological ; Myocardium/*metabolism ; Myoglobin/*metabolism ; Oxygen Consumption ; Perfusion ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {A model is presented for myoglobin study based upon naturally occurring differences in myocardial myoglobin content in fish. The sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus) and the ocean pout (Macrozoarces americanus) have heart myoglobin contents of approx. 65 and 5 nmol/g wet wt, respectively. The maximal activities of enzymes associated with energy metabolism are similar in the two hearts. Isolated perfused hearts performed with similar efficiencies based upon similar rates of work, oxygen consumption and lactate production. Under normoxic perfusion conditions both hearts met 98% of the ATP demand by oxidative mechanisms. Myoglobin-rich sea raven hearts performed significantly better than myoglobin-poor ocean pout hearts under conditions of hypoxia and glycolytic blockage. The performance of sea raven hearts was impaired during hypoxia by decreasing the content of functional myoglobin with hydroxylamine. No effect upon performance was observed with the ocean pout heart. The data provide the first evidence that myoglobin plays a role in the maintenance of contractility in heart under hypoxic conditions.}, }
@article {pmid6132706, year = {1983}, author = {Mishaga, RJ and Whitford, WG}, title = {Temperature regulation and metabolism in developing white-necked ravens.}, journal = {Comparative biochemistry and physiology. A, Comparative physiology}, volume = {74}, number = {3}, pages = {605-613}, doi = {10.1016/0300-9629(83)90555-8}, pmid = {6132706}, issn = {0300-9629}, mesh = {*Aging ; Animals ; Birds/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; *Body Temperature Regulation ; Body Weight ; Energy Metabolism ; Oxygen Consumption ; Shivering ; Temperature ; }, abstract = {1. Nestlings less than six days old were ectothermic at ambient temperatures between 15 and 35 degrees C. Shivering was absent and panting sporadic and awkward. 2. At 7-14 days of age, shivering and panting responses were evident but body temperature was labile. 3. At 20 and 30 degrees C the rate of oxygen consumption increased with age to a peak of 3.5 ml/g per hr then decreased to around 2 ml/g per hr in the 400 g nestlings. At 40 degrees C the larger nestlings had a higher Vo2 than the younger birds. 4. Evaporative water loss (EWL) at Ta of 20-30 degrees C increased from approx 1 mg/g per hr in two-day-old ravens to 3-6 mg/g per hr in 11-20-day-old birds. At 40 and 45 degree C, EWL increased from approx 5 mg/g per hr in young nestlings to 10-34 mg/per hr in birds more than 11 days old. 5. Differentials in Vo2 between 20 and 30 degrees C show that the transition from ectothermy to endothermy occurred rapidly and completely in 12-14-day-old ravens. 6. At the onset of physiological thermoregulation the Vo2 of nestling birds was nearly twice that of a hypothetical adult. 7. The dry heat transfer coefficient decreased as weight increased indicating that young birds dissipate more heat passively than do older birds. Older birds dissipate heat predominantly by evaporative cooling.}, }
@article {pmid6890555, year = {1982}, author = {Hirokawa, N and Tilney, LG}, title = {Interactions between actin filaments and between actin filaments and membranes in quick-frozen and deeply etched hair cells of the chick ear.}, journal = {The Journal of cell biology}, volume = {95}, number = {1}, pages = {249-261}, pmid = {6890555}, issn = {0021-9525}, support = {HD14474/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Actins/*physiology ; Animals ; Cell Membrane/ultrastructure ; Chickens ; Cytoskeleton/*ultrastructure ; Freeze Etching/methods ; Freezing ; Hair Cells, Auditory/*ultrastructure ; Intercellular Junctions/ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {Replicas of the apical surface of hair cells of the inner ear (vestibular organ) were examined after quick freezing and rotary shadowing. With this technique we illustrate two previously undescribed ways in which the actin filaments in the stereocilia and in the cuticular plate are attached to the plasma membrane. First, in each stereocilium there are threadlike connectors running from the actin filament bundle to the limiting membrane. Second, many of the actin filaments in the cuticular plate are connected to the apical cell membrane by tiny branched connecting units like a "crow's foot." Where these "feet" contact the membrane there is a small swelling. These branched "feet" extend mainly from the ends of the actin filaments but some connect the lateral surfaces of the actin filaments as well. Actin filaments in the cuticular plate are also connected to each other by finer filaments, 3 nm in thickness and 74 +/- 14 nm in length. Interestingly, these 3-nm filaments (which measure 4 nm in replicas) connect actin filaments not only of the same polarity but of opposite polarities as documented by examining replicas of the cuticular plate which had been decorated with subfragment 1 (S1) of myosin. At the apicolateral margins of the cell we find two populations of actin filaments, one just beneath the tight junction as a network, the other at the level of the zonula adherens as a ring. The latter which is quite substantial is composed of actin filaments that run parallel to each other; adjacent filaments often show opposite polarities, as evidenced by S1 decoration. The filaments making up this ring are connected together by the 3-nm connectors. Because of the polarity of the filaments this ring may be a "contractile" ring; the implications of this is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid7041632, year = {1982}, author = {Shekelle, RB and Stamler, J and Paul, O and Shryock, AM and Liu, S and Lepper, M}, title = {Dietary lipids and serum cholesterol level: change in diet confounds the cross-sectional association.}, journal = {American journal of epidemiology}, volume = {115}, number = {4}, pages = {506-514}, doi = {10.1093/oxfordjournals.aje.a113332}, pmid = {7041632}, issn = {0002-9262}, mesh = {Cholesterol/*blood ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Dietary Fats/*metabolism ; Epidemiologic Methods ; Humans ; Hypercholesterolemia/diet therapy ; Illinois ; Regression Analysis ; }, abstract = {In the Chicago Western Electric Company study, diet was assessed at the initial examination, in 1957-1958, of 1900 middle-aged men and again at their second examination about one year later. At the first examination, lipid composition of the diet, as summarized by a score based on the formula of Keys, Anderson and Grande (Grande, F. Predicting change in serum cholesterol from change in lipid composition of the diet. In: Lauer RM, Shekelle RB, eds. Childhood Prevention of Atherosclerosis and Hypertension. New York: Raven Press, 1980:145-53), was positively associated with level of serum cholesterol. Between the first and second examinations, however, hypercholesterolemic men were more likely than others to have reduced intake of dietary saturated fatty acids and cholesterol. As a result, at the second examination the cross-sectional linear association between the diet score and serum cholesterol concentration was significantly positive for men with initial levels of serum cholesterol less than 250 mg/dl, significantly negative for men with initial levels of 250 mg/dl or higher and not significantly different from zero for all men together. The bias introduced by change in diet among hypercholesterolemic men differs importantly from bias due to unreliability of measurement and to interindividual differences in intrinsic level of serum cholesterol, because it can produce statistically significant but spurious correlations.}, }
@article {pmid6197234, year = {1982}, author = {Grafman, J and Passafiume, D and Faglioni, P and Boller, F}, title = {Calculation disturbances in adults with focal hemispheric damage.}, journal = {Cortex; a journal devoted to the study of the nervous system and behavior}, volume = {18}, number = {1}, pages = {37-49}, doi = {10.1016/s0010-9452(82)80017-8}, pmid = {6197234}, issn = {0010-9452}, mesh = {Aphasia/physiopathology ; Brain Damage, Chronic/*physiopathology ; Brain Injuries/physiopathology ; Brain Neoplasms/physiopathology ; Cerebral Cortex/physiopathology ; Cerebral Infarction/physiopathology ; Dominance, Cerebral/*physiology ; Humans ; Mathematics ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; Psychomotor Performance/physiology ; }, abstract = {It has been suggested that hemisphere-damaged patients with calculation disorders can be subdivided into 3 groups: agraphia or alexia for numbers, spatial dyscalculia and anarithmetia. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the role played by visuospatial disorders and by anarithmetia in subjects with impaired calculation abilities. Seventy-six patients with focal hemispheric lesions and 26 normal controls with demonstrated ability to read and write numbers were given a written calculation task, the Token Test, the Crosses Test, a test of Constructional Apraxia and Raven's Progressive Matrices. In the calculation task, a quantitative score represented the number of digits that were correct numerically and put in correct position. A qualitative score with emphasis on visuospatial factors was obtained by scoring each problem with the criteria used in Benton's Visual Retention Test. Analysis of the results showed that both left and right hemisphere-damaged patients performed significantly worse than controls and that patients with left posterior lesions were particularly impaired even after correction of the acalculia scores by the results of the other neuropsychological tests. These results suggest that even though different factors may contribute to calculation disorders (impairment of intelligence, visuoconstructive difficulties and above all aphasia), left posterior lesions are particularly prone to produce an impairment in calculating abilities which is partially independent from the above disorders.}, }
@article {pmid6175327, year = {1981}, author = {Bailey, S and Powell, GE and Clark, E}, title = {A note on intelligence and recovery from aphasia: the relationship between Raven's Matrices Scores and change on the Schuell Aphasia Test.}, journal = {The British journal of disorders of communication}, volume = {16}, number = {3}, pages = {193-203}, doi = {10.3109/13682828109011400}, pmid = {6175327}, issn = {0007-098X}, mesh = {Aged ; Aphasia/*diagnosis/psychology ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Prognosis ; }, }
@article {pmid6948069, year = {1981}, author = {Regnault, P}, title = {Facial and submandibular lipectomy with upward rhytidectomy.}, journal = {Journal of maxillofacial surgery}, volume = {9}, number = {4}, pages = {247-252}, doi = {10.1016/s0301-0503(81)80051-3}, pmid = {6948069}, issn = {0301-0503}, mesh = {Adipose Tissue/*surgery ; Adult ; Esthetics ; Face/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neck/*surgery ; Surgery, Plastic/adverse effects/*methods ; }, abstract = {This paper describes the removal of fat from several areas of the face and neck. Defatting is recommended whenever an excess is unaesthetic. The areas to be treated are most frequently submental and submandibular, but also chin, lower check and Bichat fat pads may have to be removed. A special type of rhytidectomy with upward pulling and direct crow's foot excision is often performed in conjunction with the defatting.}, }
@article {pmid6458043, year = {1981}, author = {Kuwabara, N and Uchida, H}, title = {Functional cooperation of the dnaE and dnaN gene products in Escherichia coli.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {78}, number = {9}, pages = {5764-5767}, pmid = {6458043}, issn = {0027-8424}, mesh = {Bacteriophage lambda ; DNA Polymerase III/*genetics ; *DNA Replication ; DNA-Directed DNA Polymerase/*genetics ; Escherichia coli/*genetics ; *Genes, Bacterial ; Macromolecular Substances ; Suppression, Genetic ; Transduction, Genetic ; }, abstract = {A system was designed to isolate second-site intergenic suppressors of a thermosensitive mutation of the dnaE gene of Escherichia coli. The dnaE gene codes for the alpha subunit of DNA polymerase III [McHenry, C. S. &amp; Crow, W. (1979) J. Biol. Chem. 254, 1748-1753]. One such suppressor, named sueA77, was finely mapped and found to be located at 82 min on the E. coli chromosome, between dnaA and recF, and within the dnaN gene [Sakakibara, Y. &amp; Mizukami, T. (1980) Mol. Gen. Genet. 178, 541-553]. The dnaN gene codes for the beta subunit of DNA polymerase III holoenzyme [Burgers, P. M. J., Kornberg, A. &amp; Sakakibara, Y. (1981) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 78, 5391-5395]. The sueA77 mutation was trans-dominant over its wild-type allele, and it suppressed different thermosensitive mutations of dnaE with different maximal permissive temperature. These properties were interpreted as providing genetic evidence for interaction of the dnaE and dnaN gene products in E. coli.}, }
@article {pmid7023332, year = {1981}, author = {Gregg, JB and Steele, JP and Zimmerman, L and Ferwerda, H and Gregg, PS}, title = {Otolaryngic osteopathology in 14th century mid-america. The crow creek massacre.}, journal = {The Annals of otology, rhinology, and laryngology}, volume = {90}, number = {3 Pt 1}, pages = {288-293}, doi = {10.1177/000348948109000320}, pmid = {7023332}, issn = {0003-4894}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Bone Diseases/history ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Facial Bones/abnormalities ; Female ; History, Medieval ; Humans ; *Indians, North American/history ; Infant ; Male ; Mastoid/pathology ; Middle Aged ; Otitis Media/history ; Otorhinolaryngologic Diseases/*history ; *Paleopathology ; Skull/abnormalities ; South Dakota ; }, abstract = {Over 486 people were massacred and buried communally at the Crow Creek Village Site, South Dakota, about 1350 AD. Osseous pathology in the craniofacial area of the victims' skeletons is reviewed and compared to data from other indigenous skeletal populations past and present. The Crow Creek mastoid x-rays are analyzed and compared to four other studies which span over 1000 years of Dakota Territory history. Findings regarding external auditory canal exostoses in the different groups are compared. Unusual findings in the craniofacial area are assessed. Insight into longitudinal epidemiology in one portion of the U.S. is possible through this study.}, }
@article {pmid6786326, year = {1981}, author = {Gullick, WJ and Tzartos, S and Lindstrom, J}, title = {Monoclonal antibodies as probes of acetylcholine receptor structure. 1. Peptide mapping.}, journal = {Biochemistry}, volume = {20}, number = {8}, pages = {2173-2180}, doi = {10.1021/bi00511a016}, pmid = {6786326}, issn = {0006-2960}, support = {NS11323/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Antibodies ; Antibodies, Monoclonal ; Antigen-Antibody Complex ; Clone Cells ; Electric Organ/analysis ; Fishes ; Indicators and Reagents ; Macromolecular Substances ; Maleimides ; Peptide Fragments/*analysis ; Quaternary Ammonium Compounds ; *Receptors, Cholinergic/immunology ; }, abstract = {The isolated subunits of the acetylocholine receptor from Torpedo californica were digested with proteolytic enzymes, and the resulting polypeptide fragments were analyzed by gel electrophoresis. We have identified those fragments which contain carbohydrate and those from the alpha subunit which are labelled with the acetylcholine binding site specific reagent [4-(N-maleimido)benzyl]tri[3H]methylammonium iodide. We have tested several monoclonal antibodies raised to the acetylcholine receptor from torpedo, some of which react with the denatured subunits [Tzartos, S.J., &amp; Lindstrom, J.M. (1980) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A.77, 755; Tzartos, S.J., &amp; Lindstrom, J.M. (1981) in Monoclonal antibodies in Endocrine Research (Fellows, R., &amp; Eisenbarth, G., Eds.) Raven Press (in press)]. The binding specificities of these antibodies to radioiodinated proteolytically generated fragments of the alpha subunit were determined by immunoprecipitation followed by gel electrophoresis. The antibodies tested fell into at least three main groups on the basis of their binding specificities. These antibodies were also tested for their capacity to bind to acetylcholine receptor solubilized in Triton X-100, sodium cholate, or sodium cholate supplemented with exogenous lipids. A monoclonal antibody raised to the denatured delta subunit, was tested for its ability to select radioiodinated proteolytic fragments of these subunits. These molecules provide probes for many sites on the acetylcholine receptor with affinities and specificities comparable to alpha-neurotoxins.}, }
@article {pmid6940183, year = {1981}, author = {Dippold, WG and Jay, G and DeLeo, AB and Khoury, G and Old, LJ}, title = {p53 transformation-related protein: detection by monoclonal antibody in mouse and human cells.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {78}, number = {3}, pages = {1695-1699}, pmid = {6940183}, issn = {0027-8424}, support = {CA 08748/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; CA 19765-04/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; N01 CP-81054/CP/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Animals ; *Antibodies ; Cell Division ; Cell Line ; *Cell Transformation, Neoplastic ; Cell Transformation, Viral ; Humans ; Hybrid Cells/*immunology ; Melanoma ; Mice ; Molecular Weight ; Proteins/*analysis ; }, abstract = {A transformation-related protein of M(r) 53,000, designated p53, has been detected in a range of neoplastic cell types of the mouse by using immunoprecipitation of [(35)S]-methionine-labeled cell extracts with mouse antiserum [DeLeo, A. B., Jay, G., Appella, E., DuBois, G. C., Law, L. W. &amp; Old, L. J. (1979) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 76, 2420-2424]. We have now prepared a monoclonal antibody to p53 and have used it to study the occurrence and intracellular location of p53 by indirect immunofluorescence assays. In accordance with the results of immunoprecipitation, these tests showed p53 in all 13 transformed mouse cell lines studied. In each case, p53 was found in the nucleus. No p53 was detected in normal mouse fibroblasts, 3T3 cells, bone marrow cells, thymus cells, or embryo cells. A serologically related protein was detected in the nucleus of human cells by monoclonal antibody and was found in both normal and neoplastic cultured cells. Expression of p53 in human cells correlates with the growth characteristics of the culture, high p53 levels being associated with rapid cell proliferation and low p53 levels, with cessation of cell division. Normal and malignant human cells differ, however, with regard to the effect of confluency on p53 expression. Normal kidney epithelium and fetal brain cells, which express high p53 levels during exponential growth, show a prompt decrease in p53 associated with contact inhibition of cell division. Malignant cells, on the other hand, continue to express p53 after confluency and subsequent overgrowth of the monolayers. These results suggest that p53 may be involved in the normal regulation of cell division and that malignant transformation leads to abnormalities in the control of p53 expression.}, }
@article {pmid6780556, year = {1981}, author = {Slaughter, D and Fletcher, GL and Ananthanarayanan, VS and Hew, CL}, title = {Antifreeze proteins from the sea raven, Hemitripterus americanus. Further evidence for diversity among fish polypeptide antifreezes.}, journal = {The Journal of biological chemistry}, volume = {256}, number = {4}, pages = {2022-2026}, pmid = {6780556}, issn = {0021-9258}, mesh = {Amino Acids/analysis ; Animals ; Circular Dichroism ; Fishes/*blood ; Immunodiffusion ; Kinetics ; Peptides/*blood ; Protein Conformation ; Protein Denaturation ; Radioimmunoassay ; Species Specificity ; Temperature ; }, abstract = {The antifreeze proteins of the sea raven, Hemitripterus americanus, were isolated and compared with other fish antifreeze proteins. The sea raven contains one major protein of molecular weight 14,000-16,000 with little or no carbohydrate. Except for its similar seasonal appearance, the sea raven antifreeze protein differs from other polypeptide antifreeze in its amino acid composition, secondary structure, and immunological specificity. Amino acid analysis of sea raven antifreeze showed that it contains a high amount of half-cystine, hydrophilic amino acids, and only an average amount of alanine. In contrast, all other fish antifreeze proteins contain approximately 60% alanine and no half-cystine residues. Furthermore, the sea raven antifreeze protein is sensitive to sulfhydryl reagents. The antifreeze activity was decreased by 67% in the presence of 0.01 M dithiothreitol. Circular dichroism studies indicated the absence of significant amounts of alpha-helix and the possible presence of beta-structure. Antibodies raised against the antifreeze protein did not cross-react with the known polypeptide antifreeze from the winter flounder and shorthorn sculpin (Hew, C. L., Fletcher, G. L., and Ananthanarayanan, V. S. (1980) Can. J. Biochem. 58, 377-383). A specific radioimmunoassay was developed for the sea raven antifreeze protein and was used to quantitate the protein concentration in the fish. The seasonal profile obtained by radioimmunoassay was compatible with the antifreeze activity determined with a freezing point osmometer.}, }
@article {pmid7015498, year = {1981}, author = {Zimmerman, LJ and Gregg, JB and Gregg, PS}, title = {Para-mortem osteopathology in the Crow Creek massacre victims.}, journal = {South Dakota journal of medicine}, volume = {34}, number = {2}, pages = {7-12}, pmid = {7015498}, mesh = {History, Medieval ; Humans ; Indians, North American/*history ; *Paleopathology ; South Dakota ; }, }
@article {pmid6783411, year = {1981}, author = {Henderson, JY and Moir, AJ and Fothergill, LA and Fothergill, JE}, title = {Sequences of sixteen phosphoserine peptides from ovalbumins of eight species.}, journal = {European journal of biochemistry}, volume = {114}, number = {2}, pages = {439-450}, doi = {10.1111/j.1432-1033.1981.tb05165.x}, pmid = {6783411}, issn = {0014-2956}, mesh = {Amino Acid Sequence ; Animals ; Birds ; Chickens ; Ducks ; Geese ; *Ovalbumin ; Peptide Fragments/analysis ; *Phosphopeptides ; Phosphoserine/*analysis ; Serine/*analogs &amp; derivatives ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Phosphoserine peptides have been isolated by a diagonal electrophoresis method from proteolytic digests of ovalbumins from hen, grouse, turkey, golden pheasant, magpie goose, chinese goose, Aylesbury duck and fulvous whistling duck. The amino acid sequences of these peptides have been determined. There are two sites of phosphorylation in each ovalbumin, which are located in two different regions of the ovalbumin molecule. Amino acid replacements are more frequent in the site 1 sequences than in the site 2 sequences. Both site 1 and site 2 sequences contain invariant residues. Sequence variations occur near the serine residues that are phosphorylated, but the amino acid two residues C-terminal to the phosphoserine is always glutamic acid, suggesting that this may be a recognition signal for the phosphorylating enzyme. Variations in amino acid sequence among the species are consistent with differences in the ovalbumins determined by peptide mapping and quantitative immunoprecipitation assays. A phylogenetic tree has been constructed from a comparison of the sequences of 248 residues from the eight ovalbumins.}, }
@article {pmid7009423, year = {1981}, author = {Hollenberg, NK and Williams, GH and Adams, DF}, title = {Essential hypertension: abnormal renal vascular and endocrine responses to a mild psychological stimulus.}, journal = {Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979)}, volume = {3}, number = {1}, pages = {11-17}, doi = {10.1161/01.hyp.3.1.11}, pmid = {7009423}, issn = {0194-911X}, support = {GM 18674/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; HL 11668/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; HL 14944/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Aldosterone/blood ; Angiotensin II/blood ; Blood Pressure ; Emotions/*physiology ; Heart Rate ; Humans ; Hydrocortisone/blood ; Hypertension/*physiopathology/psychology ; Kidney/*blood supply ; Middle Aged ; Renin/blood ; }, abstract = {We have assessed the influence of a mild emotional stimulus on arterial blood pressure, heart rate, renal blood flow, plasma renin activity (PRA), and plasma aldosterone concentration in 24 normal subjects, eight of who had a parent with hypertension, and in 15 patients with essential hypertension. A nonverbal IQ test, Raven's Progressive Matrices, was employed as the stimulus. In 11 of the 15 hypertensives, arterial blood pressure rose transiently by 7 mm Hg or more, but in only three of 16 normal subjects (x2 = 7.23, p less than 0.01). Transient moderate increases in heart rate were also more common in the hypertensives (p less than 0.01). Renal blood flow rose in 11 of 16 normal subjects and fell in each of the 15 patients with essential hypertension (x2 = 15.1; p less than 0.005). As opposed to the transient changes in arterial pressure and heart rate, the fall in renal perfusion was sustained. The PRA fell in 10 of the 16 normal subjects with a negative family history and rose in 14 of 15 patients with essential hypertension (p less than 0.005). Changes in plasma angiotensin II concentration and in plasma aldosterone were in accord with the changes in PRA, but plasma cortisol did not change. Both the renal vascular response and the change in PRA were intermediate in normal subjects in whom family history was positive for hypertension. For the entire group of 39 subjects there was statistically significant agreement between the direction of the renal vascular response and the directional change in PRA: renal blood flow rose when PRA fell and fell when PRA rose (p less than 0.005). We conclude that there is an abnormality in the control of both the renal circulation and of renin release in patients with essential hypertension in response to psychological provocation, and that a similar process is present in some normotensive subjects whose parents have hypertension.}, }
@article {pmid6900136, year = {1980}, author = {Campbell, SJ}, title = {Before the cock crows. Writing contest winner.}, journal = {Newsletter. Kentucky Nurses Association}, volume = {28}, number = {3}, pages = {9-10}, pmid = {6900136}, issn = {0023-0316}, mesh = {England ; Female ; Humans ; *Nurse-Patient Relations ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Complications, Cardiovascular/*nursing ; Quality of Health Care ; Truth Disclosure ; }, }
@article {pmid6928979, year = {1980}, author = {Takahata, N}, title = {Composite stepwise mutation model under the neutral mutation hypothesis.}, journal = {Journal of molecular evolution}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {13-20}, pmid = {6928979}, issn = {0022-2844}, mesh = {Alleles ; Animals ; Drosophila/*genetics ; Genetic Variation ; Genetics, Population ; Heterozygote ; Isoenzymes/genetics ; Mathematics ; Models, Genetic ; *Mutation ; Polymorphism, Genetic ; Xanthine Dehydrogenase/genetics ; }, abstract = {As an extension of the conventional ("Ohta-Kimura") stepwise mutation model, a new model is proposed. In this model, it is assumed that each charge state ("electromorph") is represented by K alleles and that a mutation changes an allele either by one step in the charge space or to one of the other members of the identical electromorph. It is shown that the net genetic variability within a population is similar to that predicted by the infinite-allele model ("Kimura-Crow" model) rather than to that predicted by the stepwise mutation model, and the K-dependence of genetic variability is rather weak when K greater than or equal to 2 and the effective population size is not much greater than the reciprocal of mutation rate. The results are compared with the recent observations at the xanthine dehydrogenase locus in Drosophila pseudoobscura.}, }
@article {pmid6899194, year = {1980}, author = {Hicks, C}, title = {An alternative to Jay.}, journal = {Nursing times}, volume = {76}, number = {9}, pages = {939}, pmid = {6899194}, issn = {0954-7762}, mesh = {Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*nursing ; *Legislation, Nursing ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid6445069, year = {1980}, author = {Thruston, M}, title = {Court, Warnock, Jay -- words or action for children with handicaps?.}, journal = {Royal Society of Health journal}, volume = {100}, number = {1}, pages = {26-29}, doi = {10.1177/146642408010000109}, pmid = {6445069}, issn = {0035-9130}, mesh = {Adult ; Child ; Child Health Services/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Child, Preschool ; *Community Health Nursing ; *Persons with Disabilities ; Education, Special ; England ; *Health Policy ; Humans ; Parents/education ; }, }
@article {pmid6899090, year = {1980}, author = {Dopson, L}, title = {According to Jay.}, journal = {Nursing times}, volume = {76}, number = {1}, pages = {8-9}, pmid = {6899090}, issn = {0954-7762}, mesh = {Community Mental Health Centers/organization &amp; administration ; England ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*nursing ; Residential Facilities/organization &amp; administration ; }, }
@article {pmid537866, year = {1979}, author = {Bloom, H and Taylor, W and Bloom, WR and Ayling, GM}, title = {Organochlorine pesticide residues in animals of Tasmania, Australia-1975-77.}, journal = {Pesticides monitoring journal}, volume = {13}, number = {3}, pages = {99-108}, pmid = {537866}, issn = {0031-6156}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Birds ; Fishes ; *Hydrocarbons, Chlorinated ; Insecticides/*analysis ; Pesticide Residues/*analysis ; Trout ; }, abstract = {Animals taken in Tasmania including duck (Anas superciliosa), eel (Anguilla australis), English perch (Perca fluviatilis), white-faced heron (Ardea pacifica), brown trout (Salmo trutta), European starling (Strunus vulgaris), cat (Felis cattus), cormorant (Phalacrocorax sp.), mutton bird (Puffinus tenuirostris), Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii), rainbow trout (Salmo gairdnerii), Tasmanian raven (Corvus mellori), tench (Tinca tinca), and quail (Coturnix sp.) were sampled for p,p'-DDE, pp,p'-TDE, p,p'-DDT, lindane, dieldrin, and hexachlorobenzene. Pesticide residue levels exceeded 0.1 ppm in at least one animal from each area and in the majority of animals sampled from all areas. Pesticide sources could not be determined, partly because migratory species such as ducks, mutton birds, cormorants, and eels may have ingested pesticides outside of Tasmania.}, }
@article {pmid540901, year = {1979}, author = {Kern, I and Fischer, U and Fischer, B}, title = {[Intelligence testing in early old age. The correlation between the multiple-choice vocabulary test (MCVT-B) and the progressive matrices test (PMT) in a patient cohort in early old age].}, journal = {Fortschritte der Medizin}, volume = {97}, number = {40}, pages = {1821-1823}, pmid = {540901}, issn = {0015-8178}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Language Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; }, abstract = {Taking a random sample of 147 patients a substantial correlation of 0.54 between the "Mehrfachwahl-Wortschatz-Test (MWT-B)" by Lehrl and the "Progressiver Matrizen-Test" by Raven could be found. The MWT-B did not show significant differences between the age groups of 34-44 years, 45-54 years and 55-64 years. In the PMT differences between the age groups only showed up when the raw-scores were converted to IQ-scores (reffering to the corresponding age groups). Using the raw-scores no significant differences could be determined. Investigating an average IQ of 109 in the PMT, we found an average IQ of 97 in the MWT-B for the same patients. A main reason for the superelevated IQ-scores in PMT seems to be the reference to different age groups. A new standardization of the test should be undertaken.}, }
@article {pmid260141, year = {1979}, author = {}, title = {'No' to the Jay training proposals.}, journal = {Nursing mirror}, volume = {149}, number = {17}, pages = {7}, pmid = {260141}, issn = {0029-6511}, mesh = {Education, Nursing/*economics ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/nursing ; *Legislation, Nursing ; Midwifery/*education ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid258455, year = {1979}, author = {Joinson, P}, title = {Community nursing: Why did Jay ignore us?.}, journal = {Nursing mirror}, volume = {149}, number = {15}, pages = {31}, pmid = {258455}, issn = {0029-6511}, mesh = {*Community Health Nursing ; *Legislation, Nursing ; Politics ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid525972, year = {1979}, author = {Ulizzi, L and San Martini, A and Terrenato, L}, title = {Changes of selection opportunities with a changing environment: regional heterogeneity in Italy.}, journal = {Annals of human genetics}, volume = {43}, number = {2}, pages = {137-141}, doi = {10.1111/j.1469-1809.1979.tb02006.x}, pmid = {525972}, issn = {0003-4800}, mesh = {Educational Status ; *Environment ; Fertility ; Humans ; Italy ; Mortality ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {The mortailty and fertility components of the index of opportunity for selection (the Crow index) have been studied in the various Italian regions during the last century. To estimate the relevance of environmental factors on both components, their trends and those of their interregional variances have been compared with illiteracy. The results show that the selection opportunities due to mortality have decreased in a smiliar way in all the regions with a trend parallel to that of the national percentage of illiteracy, suggesting that this component is directly affected by the general socio-cultural level. As to the component due to fertility differentials, the regions, though scattered in the time scale, show a characteristic cycle of rise and fall. Moreover, the interregional variances of this component and of illiteracy are quite parallel, thus supporting the hypothesis that the reproductive pattern is strongly influenced by the individual cultural level.}, }
@article {pmid522220, year = {1979}, author = {Riemann, HP and Behymer, DE and Franti, CE and Crabb, C and Schwab, RG}, title = {Survey of Q-fever agglutinins in birds and small rodents in Northern California, 1975-76.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {515-523}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-15.4.515}, pmid = {522220}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Agglutinins/isolation &amp; purification ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*immunology ; Birds ; California ; Columbidae ; Fever/immunology/*veterinary ; Rats ; Rodent Diseases/*immunology ; Rodentia ; }, abstract = {Serum samples from 15 species of rodents and 33 species of birds were tested for agglutinins against Coxiella burnetii by the microagglutination test. Of 759 rodents tested, 21 (3%) were seropositive. Antibody positive rodents included muskrats, Ondatra zebethica, (11%), Rattus spp. (10%), Beechey ground squirrels, Otospermophilus beecheyi, (6%), wood rats, Neotoma fuscipes, (5%), and Peromyscus spp. (2%). Of 583 birds tested, 118 (20%) were seropositive. This included white crowned sparrows, Zonotrichia leucophrys, gold crowned sparrows, Z. atricapilla, and English sparrows, Passer domesticus, (68% in the composite); coots, Fulica americana, (29%); blackbirds, Euphagus cyanocephalus, (33%); crows, Corvus brachyrhyncos, (29%); robins, Turdus migratorius, (16%); pigeons, Columba fasciata, (10%); and mallard ducks, Anas platyrhynchos, (7%). There was a tendency for the seropositive animals to have been collected in the vicinity of endemically infected livestock.}, }
@article {pmid555541, year = {1979}, author = {Brambilla, G and Sangiovanni, G and Vender, S and Barale, F}, title = {[Changes in CSF dynamics and performance tests after head injuries (author's transl)].}, journal = {Rivista di patologia nervosa e mentale}, volume = {100}, number = {4}, pages = {227-237}, pmid = {555541}, issn = {0035-6433}, mesh = {Adult ; Brain Concussion/diagnosis ; Brain Injuries/*diagnosis/diagnostic imaging/surgery ; Female ; Hematoma, Epidural, Cranial/diagnosis/surgery ; Hematoma, Subdural/diagnosis/surgery ; Humans ; Indium ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Psychological Tests ; Radioisotopes ; Radionuclide Imaging ; }, abstract = {In a large series of head-injured patients (132 cases), we have selected 30 patients (mean age 43 years) with only primary school education: they have been investigated with isotope cisternography and psycodiagnostic tests. 19 underwent neurosurgical procedures (6 extradural haematomas, 8 subdural haematomas, 5 cerebral lacerations). These investigations have been carried at least six months after the head injury. We have used for isotopic cisternography RISA and In111-DTPA. Raven's Progressive Coloured Matrices and Immediate Memory Tests were performed. Cisternographic pictures were classified as 1) normal, 2) with asymmetrical diffusion, 3) with ventricular reflux and were correlated with the neuropsychological data. We have found ventricular reflux in 10 patients (5 underwent surgical procedures), asimmetrical diffusion in 15 patients (11 operated); in 5 cases cisternographic pictures were normal. Neuropsychological tests give quantitative data about progressive mental deterioration, in full agreement with cisternographic results.}, }
@article {pmid492969, year = {1979}, author = {Rehbinder, C and Karlsson, KA}, title = {Tuleremia in the raven (Corvus corax).}, journal = {Nordisk veterinaermedicin}, volume = {31}, number = {7-8}, pages = {339}, pmid = {492969}, issn = {0029-1579}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology ; Birds ; Disease Reservoirs/veterinary ; Francisella tularensis/isolation &amp; purification ; Sweden ; Tularemia/*veterinary ; }, }
@article {pmid255991, year = {1979}, author = {Dopson, L}, title = {Nursing Times explains: CCETSW (Central Council for Education and Training in Social Work)--the Council Jay prefers.}, journal = {Nursing times}, volume = {75}, number = {25}, pages = {1033}, pmid = {255991}, issn = {0954-7762}, mesh = {Health Occupations/*education ; *Licensure ; *Licensure, Nursing ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid377250, year = {1979}, author = {Allen, M}, title = {David Williams is no Jay-bird.}, journal = {Nursing mirror}, volume = {148}, number = {23}, pages = {19-20}, pmid = {377250}, issn = {0029-6511}, mesh = {History of Medicine ; *Labor Unions ; Legislation, Nursing ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid520382, year = {1979}, author = {Panek, PE and Rush, MC}, title = {Intellectual and personality differences between community-living and institutionalized older adult females.}, journal = {Experimental aging research}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, pages = {239-250}, doi = {10.1080/03610737908257201}, pmid = {520382}, issn = {0361-073X}, mesh = {Aged ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Nursing Homes ; *Personality ; Social Adjustment ; *Social Environment ; }, abstract = {The purpose of the present study was to investigate simultaneously differences between normal institutionalized older adults and community-living older adults with respect to intelligence/cognitive test performance and personality. Participants were 25 community-living females (M age = 72.9 yrs, SD = 6.34) and 25 institutionalized females (M age = 80.0 yrs, SD = 6.46). Intellectual/cognitive ability was assessed by the WAIS, Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale (Form L-M), Ravens Coloured Progressive Matrices; personality was assessed by the Hand Test, a projective technique. Several multivariate analyses (discriminant analysis) were conducted. Results suggested that even when controlling for age and level of education, institutionalization appears to be associated with intellectual/cognitive as well as personality deficits. The findings were discussed in terms of the potential implications for the professional working with institutionalized older adults.}, }
@article {pmid255960, year = {1979}, author = {Bavin, J}, title = {Jay Report critique--2: The Gloucestershire project.}, journal = {Nursing times}, volume = {75}, number = {21}, pages = {887-890}, pmid = {255960}, issn = {0954-7762}, mesh = {Adult ; Child ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*nursing ; *Legislation, Nursing ; Mental Health Services/*legislation &amp; jurisprudence ; Politics ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid255949, year = {1979}, author = {Bavin, J}, title = {Jay Report critique--1. Why the recommendations will not succeed.}, journal = {Nursing times}, volume = {75}, number = {20}, pages = {821-825}, pmid = {255949}, issn = {0954-7762}, mesh = {Community Health Nursing ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*nursing ; *Legislation, Nursing ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid112801, year = {1979}, author = {Krushinskiĭ, LV and Zorina, ZA and Dashevskiĭ, BA}, title = {[Ability of birds of the Corvidae family to operate by the empirical dimensions of figures].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {29}, number = {3}, pages = {590-597}, pmid = {112801}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Cats ; Conditioning, Classical ; Dogs ; Food ; *Form Perception ; Generalization, Psychological ; Haplorhini ; *Problem Solving ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {The reasoning ability was investigated in 29 Corvidae birds. The experimental task consisted in finding a hidden bait, the task being based on the fact that volumetric bait could be hidden in a volumetric geometrical figure only and not in a flat one. Thus it was possible to value the bird's ability to operate the empirical dimensions of objects. It was found that although the structure of bird brain is basically different from that of mammals, Corvidae surpass carnivorous mammals (dogs and cats) in solving this problem, their ability to operate the dimensions of objects being developped almost as well as that of monkeys.}, }
@article {pmid254934, year = {1979}, author = {Altschul, A}, title = {Jumping ahead with Jay.}, journal = {Nursing mirror}, volume = {148}, number = {19}, pages = {17-19}, pmid = {254934}, issn = {0029-6511}, mesh = {Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*nursing ; *Legislation, Nursing ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid111841, year = {1979}, author = {Andrieux, M}, title = {[Operant vocal conditioning in the raven (Corvus corax L.)].}, journal = {Comptes rendus des seances de l'Academie des sciences. Serie D, Sciences naturelles}, volume = {288}, number = {15}, pages = {1191-1194}, pmid = {111841}, issn = {0567-655X}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Conditioning, Operant/*physiology ; Psychophysiology/methods ; Vocalization, Animal/*physiology ; }, }
@article {pmid86053, year = {1979}, author = {Rodgers, JS}, title = {Care of the mentally handicapped. The Jay committee report.}, journal = {Lancet (London, England)}, volume = {1}, number = {8120}, pages = {816-817}, doi = {10.1016/s0140-6736(79)91330-8}, pmid = {86053}, issn = {0140-6736}, mesh = {*Persons with Disabilities ; Humans ; Mental Disorders/nursing/*therapy ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid454140, year = {1979}, author = {Wolpert, E and Neundörfer, B and Kömpf, D and Braun, J}, title = {[Studies on the psychopathology of adults with 4-5 c/s EEG rhythm (author's transl)].}, journal = {Archiv fur Psychiatrie und Nervenkrankheiten}, volume = {226}, number = {4}, pages = {269-282}, pmid = {454140}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; *Electroencephalography ; Female ; *Genetic Variation ; Humans ; Male ; Mental Disorders/*psychology ; Middle Aged ; Neurotic Disorders/psychology ; Personality Disorders/psychology ; Psychological Tests ; Psychophysiologic Disorders/psychology ; }, abstract = {Nineteen subjects (10 males and 9 females, aged between 18 and 61 years) with an occipital 4-5 c/s EEG rhythm were tested using a multidimensional psychological test program. The program consisted of the IST of Amthauer, the Raven Test, the German version of the MMPI ("MMPI Saarbrücken"), the Cattell 16-PF-questionnaire, Brickenkamp's d2-Test, and a test battery for psychomotor impairment. A group of normal persons with a regular alpha EEG, matched according to sex and age, was used to provide test norms for the 4-5 c/s EEG group. No difference in intelligence was found, but statistically significant differences were found in some personality traits in the MMPI and the 16-PF-questionnaire. Taking into consideration that the 4-5 c/s EEG group of the study is a subjective sample not randomly selected, this study showed that the male subjects with a 4-5 c/s rhythm as more sensitive, more tender and gentle, more anxious, and less tolerant of stress when compared with the control group; in terms of sex-specific personality traits, they tend to show more female features. Furthermore, the clinical observations of the psychological test date are discussed, i.e., that the subjects with 4-5 c/s rhythms suffer more frequently from functional somatic complaints (observed in 13 cases: 9 with neurovegetative disturbances, 4 with psychosomatic diseases) and/or show psychopathological features (observed in 12 cases: 8 with abnormal personality traits, 4 with neurotic personality development).}, }
@article {pmid549906, year = {1979}, author = {DeLeon, B and Berg, RA and Battin, RR}, title = {Congenital vs acquired deafness: differences in reading and mathematics levels.}, journal = {The Journal of auditory research}, volume = {19}, number = {2}, pages = {123-125}, pmid = {549906}, issn = {0021-9177}, mesh = {*Achievement ; Adult ; Deafness/*congenital/etiology/psychology ; Educational Status ; Humans ; Intelligence ; *Mathematics ; *Reading ; }, abstract = {Measures of reading ability and math skills were taken in 22 adults who were either congenitally deaf or had acquired deafness in the second or third year of life. Both groups were equivalent with respect to I.Q., education level and degree of loss. The following tests were administered: (1) the performance scale of the Weschler Adult Intelligence Scale, (2) the math section of the Wide Range Achievement Test, (3) the Reading Comprehension subtest of the Peabody Individual Achievement Test, and (4) the Raven Test of Progressive Matrices. There were no significant differences between the two groups on reading level, but a significantly higher math level was found in the congenital group. It was suggested that the pathology in the acquired group may have affected other neural centers in addition to the auditory, or that the acquired group may have been handicapped by the possibility of switching from one coding system (auditory) to another (visual), while in the congenital group the coding remained confined to the visual mode.}, }
@article {pmid260745, year = {1979}, author = {Martin, EC}, title = {A study of the effect of birth interval on the development of 9-year-old schoolchildren in Singapore.}, journal = {The Journal of tropical pediatrics and environmental child health}, volume = {25}, number = {2-3}, pages = {46-76}, doi = {10.1093/tropej/25.2.46}, pmid = {260745}, issn = {0300-9920}, mesh = {Adult ; Analysis of Variance ; *Birth Intervals ; Body Height ; Body Weight ; Child ; *Child Development ; Ethnicity ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Regression Analysis ; Singapore ; Vocabulary ; }, }
@article {pmid254211, year = {1979}, author = {Hosking, G}, title = {No way, Mrs Jay: don't disband the RNMS--improve it!.}, journal = {Nursing mirror}, volume = {148}, number = {13}, pages = {7}, pmid = {254211}, issn = {0029-6511}, mesh = {Child ; *Education, Nursing, Diploma Programs ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*nursing ; *Legislation, Nursing ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid254100, year = {1979}, author = {Gorman, V and Dugdale, R}, title = {A bright new future; beware of the Jay.}, journal = {Nursing times}, volume = {75}, number = {12}, pages = {473-474}, pmid = {254100}, issn = {0954-7762}, mesh = {*Education, Nursing ; *Legislation, Nursing ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid254182, year = {1979}, author = {Williams, D}, title = {Why I wouldn't sign the Jay report.}, journal = {Nursing mirror}, volume = {148}, number = {11}, pages = {6-7}, pmid = {254182}, issn = {0029-6511}, mesh = {Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*nursing ; *Legislation, Nursing ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid254178, year = {1979}, author = {Brown, A}, title = {Counting the cost of Jay.}, journal = {Nursing mirror}, volume = {148}, number = {11}, pages = {4-5}, pmid = {254178}, issn = {0029-6511}, mesh = {Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*nursing ; *Legislation, Nursing ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid254091, year = {1979}, author = {Oswin, M}, title = {Newsmakers: the challenge of Jay.}, journal = {Nursing times}, volume = {75}, number = {11}, pages = {435-436}, pmid = {254091}, issn = {0954-7762}, mesh = {Child ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*nursing ; *Legislation, Nursing ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid254090, year = {1979}, author = {Jay, P}, title = {Newsmakers: Peggy Jay: bête noire or Messiah?.}, journal = {Nursing times}, volume = {75}, number = {11}, pages = {434-435}, pmid = {254090}, issn = {0954-7762}, mesh = {Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*nursing ; *Legislation, Nursing ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid254089, year = {1979}, author = {Williams, D}, title = {Jay report: what chance implementation?.}, journal = {Nursing times}, volume = {75}, number = {11}, pages = {429}, pmid = {254089}, issn = {0954-7762}, mesh = {Humans ; Intellectual Disability/nursing ; *Legislation, Nursing ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid254072, year = {1979}, author = {}, title = {The Jay recommendations.}, journal = {Nursing times}, volume = {75}, number = {10}, pages = {392-394}, pmid = {254072}, issn = {0954-7762}, mesh = {Education, Nursing ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/*nursing ; *Legislation, Nursing ; United Kingdom ; }, }
@article {pmid570956, year = {1979}, author = {Vogel, F and Schalt, E and Krüger, J and Propping, P and Lehnert, KF}, title = {The electroencephalogram (EEG) as a research tool in human behavior genetics: psychological examinations in healthy males with various inherited EEG variants. I. Rationale of the study. Material. Methods. Heritability of test parameters.}, journal = {Human genetics}, volume = {47}, number = {1}, pages = {1-45}, pmid = {570956}, issn = {0340-6717}, mesh = {Adult ; *Electroencephalography ; England ; Female ; Genetic Variation ; *Genetics, Behavioral/history ; Genetics, Medical ; Germany, West ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Male ; Mathematics ; Personality Assessment ; Pregnancy ; *Psychological Tests ; *Research Design ; Twins ; United States ; }, abstract = {In the first section of this paper, various research designs in human behavior genetics are compared. In this context, the commonly used concept of biometric genetics is critically evaluated from the point of view of science theory. It is contrasted with the Mendelian gene concept, which, in principle, leads to a much deeper theoretical understanding by offering clues for basic mechanisms. To explore this advantage fully, a research strategy is needed that first looks for genetic variability in a physiological parameter of possible importance for human behavior and then tries to explore the influence of this parameter on the function of the human brain and on behavior. If possible, this genetic parameter should be selected in a way that inferences as to the mechanism of its influence on behavior become feasible. Such genetic variability is provided by the hereditary variants of the normal EEG discovered by earlier work (cf. Vogel, 1970). In the following section, a research program on 298 adult healthy males, most of them soldiers, with various inherited EEG variants is described. Apart from controls with inconspicuous EEGs, this material comprises probands with the following EEG variants: low-voltage (N); low-voltage borderline (NG); monotonous alpha-waves (R); occipital fast alpha-variants (BO); fronto-precentral beta-groups (BG), and diffuse beta-waves (BD). In addition to an EEG examination, the probands were examined with various test methods measuring intelligence (IST; LPS; Raven); working speed and concentration (d-2; KLT); personal attitudes (MMPI; 16PF; RKS); and sensory and motor abilities (flicker fusion; tachistoscopy; reaction time to optic, acoustic and combined stimuli; two-hand dexterity; pursuit rotor; tapping). In a supplementary twin study on 52 male adult twin pairs (26 MZ, 26 DZ), heritabilities were determined for the test scores included in the main study. For most test scores, heritabilities are relatively low; the data are compared with those from the literature. We conclude that the test methods utilized in the main study (on EEG variants) are expected to demonstrate at the most a small to moderate correlation of the EEGs with psychological phenotypes as defined by test examinations, even if a major part of the genetic variability underlying these phenotypes would be due to differences in brain physiology that could be revealed by EEG variation.}, }
@article {pmid452956, year = {1979}, author = {Chalana, RK and Guraya, SS}, title = {Morphological and histochemical observations on the ovarian surface epithelium during the reproductive cycle of crow (Corvus splendens) and myna (Acridotheres tristis).}, journal = {Acta morphologica Neerlando-Scandinavica}, volume = {17}, number = {1}, pages = {65-72}, pmid = {452956}, issn = {0001-6225}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology/physiology ; Breeding ; Cell Division ; Epithelial Cells ; Female ; Golgi Apparatus/ultrastructure ; Ovary/*cytology/physiology ; Proteins/analysis ; RNA/analysis ; *Reproduction ; Theca Cells/cytology ; }, abstract = {A morphological and histochemical study has been made of ovarian surface epithelium during the sexual cycle of seasonally breeding birds: crow (Corvus splendens) and common myna (Acridotheres tristis). The surface epithelium is composed of a single layer of compactly arranged columnar and flat cells in the quiescent ovary. It develops numerous villi during the breeding season. The formation of villi has been correlated with the proliferation of cells which are subsequently incorporated into the ovarian stroma where they appear to form follicle and thecal cells around the growing oocytes as evidenced by the close similarities in the morphological and histochemical characteristics of these cell types. As the ovarian activity increases, the surface epithelial cells show increasing amounts of RNA and proteins, which are indicative of their rapid multiplication. No lipids and enzyme activities of acid and alkaline phosphatases, ATPase. DPN- and TPN- diaphorases and delta5-3beta HSDH have been detected in the surface epithelium of both quiescent and active ovaries.}, }
@article {pmid755621, year = {1979}, author = {Hill, SY and Reyes, RB and Mikhael, M and Ayre, F}, title = {A comparison of alcoholics and heroin abusers: computerized transaxial tomography and neuropsychological functioning.}, journal = {Currents in alcoholism}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {187-205}, pmid = {755621}, issn = {0161-8504}, mesh = {Adult ; Alcoholism/*complications ; Brain Damage, Chronic/diagnosis/*etiology ; Heroin Dependence/*complications ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Memory ; Middle Aged ; Motor Skills ; Psychological Tests ; Remission, Spontaneous ; Time Factors ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; }, abstract = {A number of conclusions may be drawn from the present neuropsychological and neuroanatomical assessment of alcoholic and heroin abusers: (1) Heroin abusers display deficits on the Category Test, TPT (Time and Localization) and Raven's Progressive Matrices (Set I and II) when compared to controls. (2) Alcoholics show significantly greater deficits than heroin abusers on these tests. (3) Duration of heroin and alcohol abuse are positively related to the extent of the observed deficits. (4) Observed deficits on the Progressive Matrices and Category tests appear to be reversible in the heroin abuser, but not the alcoholic, after comparable periods of remission. (5) The same proportion (1/15) of alcoholics and heroin abusers showed evidence of cerebral atrophy based on enlarged ventricular size.}, }
@article {pmid575902, year = {1979}, author = {Janout, V and Uvízl, M and Chmela, J and Tůmová, B and Stumpa, A and Smékal, M}, title = {A study on the role of birds in the spread of infections.}, journal = {Journal of hygiene, epidemiology, microbiology, and immunology}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {457-461}, pmid = {575902}, issn = {0022-1732}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Czechoslovakia ; *Disease Vectors ; Influenza A virus/isolation &amp; purification ; Paramyxoviridae/isolation &amp; purification ; Salmonella/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {During three expeditions undertaken in March 1977 to June 1978, 797 cloacal swabs were collected from birds of 54 species. Seven salmonella strains of six serotype were isolated from Larus ridibundus (five strains), Corvus frugilegus and Acrocephalus schoenobaenus (one each). Four strains of influenza A (HAV2 NA4V) virus were isolated from Larus ridibundus. For the first time in Czechoslovakia, two strains of Yucaipa paramyxovirus were isolated, both of them from Troglodytes troglodytes. These results are the first contribution to a study on the role of birds as hosts and vectors of different bacterial and viral agents.}, }
@article {pmid520838, year = {1979}, author = {Gol'tsova, TV and Sukernik, RI}, title = {[Genetic structure of an isolated group of the indigenous population of northern Siberia, the Nganasans (Tavginians) of Taĭmir].}, journal = {Genetika}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {734-744}, pmid = {520838}, issn = {0016-6758}, mesh = {Birth Rate ; Demography ; *Ethnicity ; Female ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Male ; Population Dynamics ; Sex Ratio ; Siberia ; }, abstract = {Demographic data of genetic interest were studied in presently living population in comparison with preseding generations of Nganasans. Decrease of sex ratio in the whole population has been revealed along with the reduction of reproductive and, possibly, effective size. The number and variance of livebirths per female were 7.29 and 9.86 respectively. Crow' index of the opportunity for selection (I) and its components (Im and If) were estimated. I was found to be 1.17, whereas Im and If--1.56 and 0.18 respectively. Linear pattern of settling in the past as well as the type of migration between adjoining subpopulations depended on culture and economy of arctic reindeer hunters as well as landscape character.}, }
@article {pmid471889, year = {1979}, author = {Chalana, RK and Guraya, SS}, title = {Morphological and histochemical observations on the primordial and early growing oocytes of crow (Corvus splendens) and myna (Acridotheres tristis).}, journal = {Poultry science}, volume = {58}, number = {1}, pages = {225-231}, doi = {10.3382/ps.0580225}, pmid = {471889}, issn = {0032-5791}, mesh = {Acid Phosphatase/analysis ; Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Dihydrolipoamide Dehydrogenase/analysis ; Female ; Histocytochemistry ; Lipids/analysis ; Oocytes/analysis/*cytology/enzymology ; Ovum/*cytology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {A morphological and histochemical study has been made of the primordial and early growing oocytes in the ovaries of crow (Corvus splendens) and common myna (Acridotheres tristis). The primordial oocytes in the myna ovary are loosely arranged in groups or nests, whereas in crow they form compact nests surrounded by highly vascularized connective tissue bands or lie in layers beneath the surface epithelium. The primordial oocytes in both the species are surrounded by flat granulosa cells whose number, shape, and cytochemical properties change with the initiation of growth. The oocyte nucleus shows a single basophilic nucleolus and thick diplotene chromosomes. With the initiation of growth, the number of nucleoli increases; simultaneously the chromosomes attain lampbrush configuration. Crescent-shaped Balbiani's vitelline body consists of ribonucleoproteins, lipoproteins, and phospholipids. The amount of these substances increases with the oocyte growth. The nature of proteins and lipids in the ooplasm and follicular epithelium also changes with the oocyte growth. Some randomly distributed protein bodies are also present in the ooplasm of primordial follicles. They disappear with the initiation of oocyte growth. The enzyme activities of acid phosphatase, NADP-diaphorase and NAD-diaphorase, also increase in the Balbiani's vitelline body with the oocyte growth. Alkaline phosphatase and delta 5-3 beta-HSDH activities are not seen. The possible functional significance of these morphological and histochemical changes has been discussed in relation to the initiation of growth in quiescent oocytes.}, }
@article {pmid459044, year = {1979}, author = {Ohishi, I and Sakaguchi, G and Riemann, H and Behymer, D and Hurvell, B}, title = {Antibodies to Clostridium botulinum toxins in free-living birds and mammals.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {3-9}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-15.1.3}, pmid = {459044}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animal Population Groups/*immunology ; Animals ; Animals, Wild/*immunology ; Antibodies, Bacterial/*analysis ; Birds/immunology ; Botulinum Toxins/*immunology ; Carnivora/immunology ; Hemagglutination Tests ; Rats/immunology ; Turkeys/immunology ; }, abstract = {Naturally-occuring antibodies against Clostridium botulinum toxins were found in Cathartes aura (turkey vultures), Canis latrans (coyotes) and Corvus brachyrhynchos (crows) by the passive hemagglutination (PHA) test and verified by the serum neutralization (SN) test. The prevalence of IHA antibodies was 18 of 20 vultures (90%), 5 of 12 crows (42%) and 25 to 110 coyotes (23%). Vultures and coyotes were seropositive by the PHA test against A, B, C, D, and F toxins. The highest antibody titer 1:8192 was in vulture serum against type C. In descending order, the highest antibody levels were against type C, D, F, E, A and B toxins.}, }
@article {pmid434780, year = {1979}, author = {Terrenato, L and Ulizzi, L and San Martini, A}, title = {The effects of demographic transition on the opportunity for selection: changes during the last century in Italy.}, journal = {Annals of human genetics}, volume = {42}, number = {3}, pages = {391-399}, doi = {10.1111/j.1469-1809.1979.tb00671.x}, pmid = {434780}, issn = {0003-4800}, mesh = {*Demography ; Female ; Fertility ; History, 19th Century ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Italy ; Mortality ; *Selection, Genetic ; United States ; }, abstract = {The index of opportunity for selection proposed by Crow has been calculated for the Italian population during the last century. The evolution of its two components, the pre-reproductive mortality and the variance in fertility, has been also analysed and compared with similar data for the United States. The results clearly show the relevance of socio-economic changes to the evolution of selective patterns in our species; in particular the relative incidence of mortality and fertility to selection intensity: the total index has in fact been reduced by 75% during the last century, the relative amount due to fertility increasing from 57 to 89%. The probable different relevance of genetic factors in the two components has also been discussed.}, }
@article {pmid390907, year = {1979}, author = {Chalana, RK and Guraya, SS}, title = {Correlative morphological and cytochemical observations on the nucleoli and nuclear bodies during avian oogenesis.}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur mikroskopisch-anatomische Forschung}, volume = {93}, number = {3}, pages = {449-457}, pmid = {390907}, issn = {0044-3107}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Cell Nucleolus/metabolism/*ultrastructure ; Cell Nucleus/metabolism/*ultrastructure ; Cytological Techniques ; Egg Yolk/metabolism ; Female ; Histocytochemistry ; Oocytes/growth &amp; development ; *Oogenesis ; Vitelline Membrane/metabolism ; }, abstract = {A correlative morphological and cytochemical study has been made of the nucleoli and nuclear bodies in the growing oocytes of the crow (Corvus splendens) and common myna (Acridotheres tristis). The nucleoli show morphological and cytochemical changes during oocyte growth, which are described in detail. In young oocytes at diplotene stage, two to six nucleoli, which are attached to condensed diplotene chromosomes, show RNA, lysine-rich histones and some non-histones, the proteins contain S-S and SH groups. In subsequent stages of oocyte growth, the cortex of nucleolus also develops arginine-rich histones whereas the medulla shows lysine-rich histones. The significance of both morphological and cytochemical changes of nucleoli has been discussed in relation to oocyte growth. Seven types of nuclear bodies are described. They are composed of proteins and carbohydrates. Their shape, size and structure vary during different stages of oocyte growth. Finally, their material is transported into the ooplasm.}, }
@article {pmid261654, year = {1979}, author = {Putnam, H}, title = {Commentary on papers by Tim Crow and Sidney Crown.}, journal = {Ciba Foundation symposium}, volume = {}, number = {69}, pages = {355-368}, doi = {10.1002/9780470720523.ch22}, pmid = {261654}, issn = {0300-5208}, mesh = {Brain/*physiology ; Computers ; Dreams/physiology ; Humans ; Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; Mental Disorders/diagnosis/*psychology/therapy ; Models, Neurological ; *Philosophy ; Psychoanalytic Theory ; *Psychotherapy ; Schizophrenia/diagnosis ; }, }
@article {pmid252202, year = {1979}, author = {Curtin, LL}, title = {Quoth the raven, "Nevermore!".}, journal = {Supervisor nurse}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {6}, pmid = {252202}, issn = {0039-5870}, mesh = {*American Nurses' Association ; *Collective Bargaining ; Labor Unions ; Nursing ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid733463, year = {1978}, author = {Foort, J and Hannah, R and Cousins, S}, title = {Rehabilitation engineering as the crow flies. Part V--a problem-solving method for rehabilitation engineering.}, journal = {Prosthetics and orthotics international}, volume = {2}, number = {3}, pages = {157-160}, doi = {10.3109/03093647809166701}, pmid = {733463}, issn = {0309-3646}, mesh = {*Biomedical Engineering ; Group Processes ; Humans ; Interpersonal Relations ; Interprofessional Relations ; *Problem Solving ; *Rehabilitation ; }, }
@article {pmid735600, year = {1978}, author = {Golubeva, TB}, title = {[Heterochronicity in the development of hearing in birds during ontogenesis].}, journal = {Zhurnal evoliutsionnoi biokhimii i fiziologii}, volume = {14}, number = {6}, pages = {589-596}, pmid = {735600}, issn = {0044-4529}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Auditory Threshold ; Birds/*physiology ; Cochlea/embryology/growth &amp; development/*physiology ; Electrophysiology ; Hearing/*physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Studies have been made on the development of hearing in the jackdaw Coloeus monedula and sea-gulls Larus canus and L. argenatus, by means of recording microphonic component of the cochlear potential under chronic experimental conditions. Special attention was paid to changes in the regions of maximum sensitivity of the microphonic component during avian growth. It was shown that the range of the perceived frequencies at the beginning of functioning of the auditory analyser coincides completely with the spectrum of parental feeding signals. Threshold parameters of the microphonic component in jackdaw nestlings differ from those of sea-gull embryos by more evident flatness. Narrow bands of the increased sensitivity which are typical of the threshold curves in sea-gull embryos essentially correlated with the chirps of embryos. These data suggest the influence of afferent stimulation on the development of the organ of hearing in birds.}, }
@article {pmid368353, year = {1978}, author = {Daoust, PY}, title = {Osteomyelitis and arthritis caused by Salmonella typhimurium in a crow.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {14}, number = {4}, pages = {483-485}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-14.4.483}, pmid = {368353}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Arthritis, Infectious/etiology/*veterinary ; Bird Diseases/*etiology ; Birds ; Osteomyelitis/etiology/*veterinary ; Salmonella Infections, Animal/*complications ; Salmonella typhimurium ; Tibia ; }, abstract = {Salmonella typhimurium was isolated from an arthritic elbow joint of a crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) which also had bilateral osteomyelitis of proximal tibias. The prevalence of Salmonella organisms in wild birds is reviewed briefly.}, }
@article {pmid366994, year = {1978}, author = {Sato, G and Oka, C and Asagi, M and Ishiguro, N}, title = {Detection of conjugative R plasmids conferring chloramphenicol resistance in Escherichia coli isolated from domestic and feral pigeons and crows.}, journal = {Zentralblatt fur Bakteriologie, Parasitenkunde, Infektionskrankheiten und Hygiene. Erste Abteilung Originale. Reihe A: Medizinische Mikrobiologie und Parasitologie}, volume = {241}, number = {4}, pages = {407-417}, pmid = {366994}, issn = {0300-9688}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Chloramphenicol/*pharmacology ; Columbidae ; *Drug Resistance, Microbial ; Escherichia coli/*drug effects ; Plasmids ; Salmonella/drug effects ; }, abstract = {A total of 87 domestic pigeons of 2 lots and 184 feral pigeons of 15 lots were examined from 1975 to 1977 for the presence of drug-resistant (especially chloramphenicol resistant) Escherichia coli. 20 (23.0%) of the domestic pigeons of the 2 lots, and 39 (21.2%) of the feral pigeons of 5 lots (33,3%) showed resistant E. coli. Usage of selective media containing chloramphenicol, streptomycin or tetracycline resulted in the increase in isolation frequency of resistant E. coli excepting one lot of domestic pigeons in which isolation of chloramphenicol resistant E. coli was very frequent without selection by the drug. Among a total of 106 resistant E. coli isolates from pigeons, 64 (60.4%) were multiply resistant and 58 of the 64 isolates were resistant to chloramphenicol. 58 (90.6%) of the multiply resistant E. coli carried conjugative R plasmids, including 13 thermosensitive R plasmids. 8 (19.0%) of 42 singly resistant E. coli isolates had conjugative R plasmids. 10 crows of 2 lots were examined similarly. Half of them had resistant E. coli. 15 (78.9%) of a total of 19 resistant E. coli isolates were multiply resistant. Of the 15 multiply resistant E. coli isolates, 5, from 2 Japanese jungle crows, were resistant to chloramphenicol. 11 (73.3%) of the 15 multiply resistant isolates carried conjugative R plasmids, including one thermosensitive R plasmid. Difference of drug resistance status between Salmonella and E. coli isolated from pigeons was discussed.}, }
@article {pmid228619, year = {1978}, author = {Iftimovici, R and Mihail, A and Iacobesco, V and Popesco, A and Mutiu, A and Niculesco, R and Puca, D and Ignatesco, B and Tudor, S}, title = {[Preliminary note on the circulation of some human respiratory viruses by wild birds].}, journal = {Archives de l'Institut Pasteur de Tunis}, volume = {55}, number = {3}, pages = {293-301}, pmid = {228619}, issn = {0020-2509}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Disease Reservoirs ; Europe, Eastern ; Humans ; Influenza, Human/transmission ; Paramyxoviridae Infections/transmission ; Respiratory Tract Infections/*transmission ; Romania ; Virus Diseases/*transmission ; }, abstract = {With a view to detecting infections and carriage of human respiratory viruses in wild birds, 349 serum samples collected from 21 bird species -- sedentary ones and birds with large or limited migration areas -- were investigated. The following antigens were used: influenza virus A/Hong Kong 1/68 (H3N2)), A2 England 42/73 (H3N2), A2 Victoria 3/75 (H3N2), A/New Jersey 8/76 (HswN1), B/Hong Kong 5/72; parainfluenza virus type I Sendai and type II, coronavirus OC/43. An elevated incidence of antibodies to A2 Victoria 3/75 (H3N2) and parainfluenza type I virus was detected in herons (Ardea cinerea, Nyctycorax myctycorax). The high incidence of antibodies to B/Hong Kong 5/72 (30.7% of the samples exhibited significant titers) found in the crow (Corvus corone sardonius) is ascribed to the fact that this bird is carnivorus, feeding on corpses of mammals.}, }
@article {pmid724421, year = {1978}, author = {Foort, J and Hannah, R and Cousins, S}, title = {Rehabilitation engineering as the crow flies. Part IV--Criteria and constraints.}, journal = {Prosthetics and orthotics international}, volume = {2}, number = {2}, pages = {81-85}, doi = {10.1080/03093647809177774}, pmid = {724421}, issn = {0309-3646}, mesh = {Activities of Daily Living ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; *Biomedical Engineering ; Humans ; Orthotic Devices ; *Patient Care Planning ; Prosthesis Design ; *Rehabilitation ; }, abstract = {When engineers function in a biomechanics clinic team, collecting information for the definition and solution of problems, and developing solutions in a logical pattern, then establishment of criteria by which to judge actions and results at various stages are essential. In our procedures, we make the most general statement we can which will indicate the goal we have for the patient or the type of patient being considered. Based on this, we proceed with a breakdown of the goal into increasingly explicit statements keeping the objective in focus. Eventually, with the criteria we need in order to decide "yes or no" to any aspect of the solution developing, we consider the constraints. These we see as imposed by the life-requirements of the patient, the effects of the physical environment, the limitations imposed by the social environment, and the limits of available technology including the skills of the designers, the manufacturing capabilities and the distribution system with which the designers must cope. When a "checklist" of requirements and limits has been established, the "critical eye" watches over the rehabilitation engineer as he in effect watches over himself!}, }
@article {pmid152107, year = {1978}, author = {Harrigan, KE and Arundel, JH}, title = {Syngamus trachea infections in the white-backed magpie (Gymnorhina hypoleuca).}, journal = {Australian veterinary journal}, volume = {54}, number = {7}, pages = {360-361}, doi = {10.1111/j.1751-0813.1978.tb02496.x}, pmid = {152107}, issn = {0005-0423}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; Birds ; Feces/parasitology ; Strongylida Infections/*parasitology ; Strongyloidea ; }, }
@article {pmid663616, year = {1978}, author = {Firkowska, AN and Ostrowska, A and Sokolowska, M and Stein, Z and Susser, M and Wald, I}, title = {Cognitive development and social policy.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {200}, number = {4348}, pages = {1357-1362}, doi = {10.1126/science.663616}, pmid = {663616}, issn = {0036-8075}, mesh = {Child ; *Cognition ; Educational Status ; Environment ; Humans ; Occupations ; Poland ; Socioeconomic Factors ; }, abstract = {The city of Warsaw was razed at the end of World War II and rebuilt under a socialist government whose policy was to allocate dwellings, schools, and health facilities without regard to social class. Of the 14,238 children born in 1963 and living in Warsaw, 96 percent were given the Raven's Progressive Matrices Test and an arithmetic and a vocabulary test in March to June of 1974. Information was collected on the families of the children, and on characteristics of schools and city districts. Parental occupation and education were used to form a family factor, and the district data were collapsed into two factors, one relating to social marginality, and the other to distance from city center. Analysis showed that the initial assumption of even distribution of family, school, and district attributes was reasonable. Mental performance was unrelated either to school or district factors; it was related to parental occupation and education in a strong and regular gradient. It is concluded that an egalitarian social policy executed over a generation failed to override the association of social and family factors with cognitive development that is characteristic of more traditional industrial societies.}, }
@article {pmid667036, year = {1978}, author = {Motais, R and Sola, F and Cousin, JL}, title = {Uncouplers of oxidative phosphorylation. A structure-activity study of their inhibitor effect on passive chloride permeability.}, journal = {Biochimica et biophysica acta}, volume = {510}, number = {1}, pages = {201-207}, doi = {10.1016/0005-2736(78)90141-4}, pmid = {667036}, issn = {0006-3002}, mesh = {Biological Transport/drug effects ; Chlorides/*blood ; Erythrocytes/drug effects/*metabolism ; Humans ; Kinetics ; Mathematics ; Permeability ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; Uncoupling Agents/*pharmacology ; }, abstract = {Uncoupling agents inhibit chloride transport in red blood cells, which is a metabolism-independent process. An analysis of the molecular requirements shows that this inhibitory activity is closely correlated with the electronic and the hydrophobic bonding properties of phenols: the more lipophilic and the more electron-attracting the substituent groups are, the greater the activity they confer on the parent molecule. A recent structure-activity study concerning various classes of reversible inhibitors of chloride transport led to the same conclusion (Motais, R. and Cousin, J.L. (1977) in International Conference on Biological Membranes: Drugs, Hormones and Membranes (Bolis, L., Hoffman, J.F. and Straub, R.W., eds.), Raven Press, New York, in the press). The effects of substituents on the activity of phenols as uncouplers have been recently examined (Stockdale, M. and Selwyn, M.J. (1971) Eur. J. Biochem. 21, 565). The comparison of these results with our data shows that uncoupling depends more on electronic properties of phenols than does choloride inhibition.}, }
@article {pmid567911, year = {1978}, author = {Miller, DB}, title = {Species-typical and individually distinctive acoustic features of crow calls of red jungle fowl.}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Tierpsychologie}, volume = {47}, number = {2}, pages = {182-183}, doi = {10.1111/j.1439-0310.1978.tb01830.x}, pmid = {567911}, issn = {0044-3573}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild ; Birds/*physiology ; Chickens/physiology ; Humans ; Male ; Sex Factors ; Species Specificity ; Stereotyped Behavior ; *Vocalization, Animal ; }, abstract = {Crow calls of red jungle fowl (Gallus gallus) were analyzed for the purposes of (a) determining the extent of commonality and variability of acoustic features within and between individual roosters, and (b) characterizing the modal crow call of this species. Comparisons were made between crow calls of jungle fowl and those of domestic fowl to assess the extent to which domestication has affected these motor patterns.}, }
@article {pmid275857, year = {1978}, author = {Kimura, M and Ohta, T}, title = {Stepwise mutation model and distribution of allelic frequencies in a finite population.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {75}, number = {6}, pages = {2868-2872}, pmid = {275857}, issn = {0027-8424}, mesh = {*Alleles ; *Gene Frequency ; Genetics, Population ; Models, Biological ; Monte Carlo Method ; *Mutation ; }, abstract = {A mathematical theory is developed that enables us to derive a formula for the equilibrium distribution of allelic frequencies in a finite population when selectively neutral alleles are produced in stepwise fashion (stepwise mutation model). It is shown that the stepwise mutation model has a remarkable property that distinguishes it from the conventional infinite allele model (Kimura-Crow model): as the population size increases indefinitely while the product of the effective population size and the mutation rate is kept at a fixed value, the mean number of different alleles contained in the population rapidly reaches a plateau which is not much larger than the effective number of alleles (reciprocal of homozygosity).}, }
@article {pmid209399, year = {1978}, author = {Berson, G and Samuel, JL and Swynghedauw, B}, title = {A comparative study of the cardiac troponin inhibitory factor (TNI) from mammalians.}, journal = {Pflugers Archiv : European journal of physiology}, volume = {374}, number = {3}, pages = {277-283}, pmid = {209399}, issn = {0031-6768}, mesh = {Adenosine Triphosphatases/antagonists &amp; inhibitors ; Animals ; Catalysis ; Cattle ; Chemical Phenomena ; Chemistry ; Chromatography, Affinity ; Cyclic AMP/pharmacology ; Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel ; Mice ; *Muscle Proteins/isolation &amp; purification ; Myocardium/*analysis ; Papain ; Phosphates ; Protein Kinases ; Rabbits ; Rats ; Swine ; *Troponin/isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {Troponin inhibitory factor, TNI, was prepared by affinity chromatography from different mammalian hearts. (i) Structure. These different TNI have the same M.W. (28000), which is higher than that found in rabbit skeletal muscle (23000). Nevertheless they differ with respect of their charge as shown by alkaline urea polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis using cardiac TNI which has previously been bound to an excess of skeletal troponin Ca2+-binding factor. These changes do not correlate with the PO4 content of TNI. They are associated with structural differences demonstrated by peptide mapping of the unfolded molecule after papain treatment. The structure of cardiac TNI from rat and rabbit differs clearly from that of crow and pig. (ii) Biological activity. These different TNI have the same inhibitory effect on skeletal actomyosin. ATPase, the same content of PO4 and the same ability to be phosphorylated in-vitro by a bovine heart c-AMP-dependent protein kinase.}, }
@article {pmid655202, year = {1978}, author = {Carlson, JS and Wiedl, KH}, title = {Use of testing-the-limits procedures in the assessment of intellectual capabilities in children with learning difficulties.}, journal = {American journal of mental deficiency}, volume = {82}, number = {6}, pages = {559-564}, pmid = {655202}, issn = {0002-9351}, mesh = {Child ; Feedback ; Form Perception ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Learning Disabilities/*psychology ; Perceptual Closure ; Problem Solving ; Verbal Behavior ; }, abstract = {Various testing-the-limits procedures were employed in administering the Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices test to 108 subjects with learning difficulties (age range 8.4 to 12.9 years). Both the picture and the puzzle forms of the test were employed in a repeated-measures format. Results revealed significant improvement in performance due to testing condition, test version, and repeated testing. Testing conditions involving verbalization and feedback were most salient. Performance on the second testing was higher than on the first testing. Localization of these effects was made to subgroupings of items on the test. The results were discussed in theoretical and practical terms.}, }
@article {pmid26309, year = {1978}, author = {Armstrong, JE and Calder, JA}, title = {Inhibition of light-induced pH increase and O2 evolution of marine microalgae by water-soluble components of crude and refined oils.}, journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology}, volume = {35}, number = {5}, pages = {858-862}, pmid = {26309}, issn = {0099-2240}, mesh = {Eukaryota/*metabolism ; *Fuel Oils ; Hydrocarbons/*metabolism ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; *Light ; Oxygen/*metabolism ; *Petroleum ; Photosynthesis ; Seawater ; *Water Microbiology ; }, abstract = {Light-induced alkalinization of the extracellular medium was found to be a common feature of the primary photosynthetic process of several marine microalgae. The light-induce PH increase of suspensions of whole cells was immediately and severely inhibited by a single dose of water-soluble components from crude and fuel oils. Differential effects on the rates of microalgal photosynthetic O2 evolution and cell suspension pH increase suggest different toxicity mechanisms of the water-soluble components of no. 2 fuel oil as compared with Southern Louisiana and Jay Crude oils. These short-term studies on the nature of sublethal petroleum toxicity to microalgae indicate that the primary effect may be through direct action on the energy-yielding electron transport systems.}, }
@article {pmid724412, year = {1978}, author = {Foort, J and Hannah, R and Cousins, S}, title = {Rehabilitiation of engineering as the crow flies. Part I-Development of the biomechanics clinic team.}, journal = {Prosthetics and orthotics international}, volume = {2}, number = {1}, pages = {15-23}, doi = {10.3109/03093647809146292}, pmid = {724412}, issn = {0309-3646}, mesh = {*Biomechanical Phenomena ; *Biomedical Engineering ; Humans ; Information Services ; Interprofessional Relations ; Orthopedic Equipment ; *Patient Care Team ; Problem Solving ; Prosthesis Design ; *Rehabilitation ; Research ; }, }
@article {pmid637745, year = {1978}, author = {Montelli, TB and Ribeiro, MV and Ribeiro, RM and Ribeiro, MC}, title = {[Neurological and electroencephalographic outcome in children after purulent meningoencephalitis].}, journal = {Arquivos de neuro-psiquiatria}, volume = {36}, number = {1}, pages = {37-45}, doi = {10.1590/s0004-282x1978000100005}, pmid = {637745}, issn = {0004-282X}, mesh = {Cerebrospinal Fluid Proteins/analysis ; Child ; *Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; *Electroencephalography ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Infant ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Meningoencephalitis/cerebrospinal fluid/*complications/psychology ; Nervous System Diseases/*etiology ; Reference Values ; }, abstract = {Twenty children with meningitis diagnosed in the Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto between 1963 and 1967 were available for prospective study; each was submitted to neurological and electroencephalographic examination, D.Q. (Gesell) and I.Q. (Raven) tests. Patients were followed from 6 months to 3 years after the acute phase of the disease. There is statistically significant difference between the D.Q. of post-meningetic children and the D.Q. of non meningitic controls of same social class and ages, when the onset of illness was before 30 months of age. No statistically significant correlation was found between the D.Q. and the patient's length of hospitalization or the first cerebrospinal fluid protein level. There is a possibility that significant correlation between the D.Q. and age at onset of illness may be observed by studying a larger number of patients. No statistically significant difference was found between the I.Q. of post-meningitic children and controls when the onset of illness was after age 4.}, }
@article {pmid342445, year = {1978}, author = {}, title = {Papers of Jay M. Enoch.}, journal = {Investigative ophthalmology &amp; visual science}, volume = {17}, number = {3}, pages = {204-207}, pmid = {342445}, issn = {0146-0404}, mesh = {*Bibliographies as Topic ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Ophthalmology/history ; United States ; Vision, Ocular ; }, }
@article {pmid342443, year = {1978}, author = {Kaufman, HE}, title = {On presentation of the Proctor Medal of The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology to Jay M. Enoch.}, journal = {Investigative ophthalmology &amp; visual science}, volume = {17}, number = {3}, pages = {200-201}, pmid = {342443}, issn = {0146-0404}, mesh = {*Awards and Prizes ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Ophthalmology/history ; United States ; Vision, Ocular ; }, }
@article {pmid342565, year = {1978}, author = {Behrman, HT}, title = {John Jay's "pimple": a medical puzzle.}, journal = {The Journal of dermatologic surgery and oncology}, volume = {4}, number = {2}, pages = {145-152}, pmid = {342565}, issn = {0148-0812}, mesh = {Famous Persons ; History, 18th Century ; History, 19th Century ; Humans ; Jurisprudence/history ; Skin Diseases/*history/therapy ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid748813, year = {1978}, author = {Denes, F and Semenza, C and Stoppa, E and Gradenigo, G}, title = {Selective improvement by unilateral brain-damaged patients on Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {16}, number = {6}, pages = {749-752}, doi = {10.1016/0028-3932(78)90011-8}, pmid = {748813}, issn = {0028-3932}, mesh = {Aged ; Brain Damage, Chronic/physiopathology/*psychology ; Cerebral Cortex/physiopathology ; Cognition/*physiology ; Concept Formation/physiology ; Dominance, Cerebral/*physiology ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Middle Aged ; *Psychological Tests ; Space Perception/physiology ; Visual Perception/physiology ; }, }
@article {pmid742415, year = {1978}, author = {Dang, HR and Guraya, SS}, title = {Seasonal fluctuations in the testicular asymmetry of birds.}, journal = {Acta morphologica Academiae Scientiarum Hungaricae}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {1-2}, pmid = {742415}, issn = {0001-6217}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Male ; Organ Size ; *Seasons ; Testis/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, abstract = {A comparative study has been made of the seasonal fluctuations in the testicular asymmetry of the house crow, the common mina, the bank mina, the house sparrow and the roseringed parakeet. Their left testis usually attains a larger size and higher weight than the right one. These differences are more pronounced during the breeding seasons.}, }
@article {pmid658994, year = {1978}, author = {Chatterjee, RK and Tandon, A and Saxena, KC and Ghatak, S and Sen, AB}, title = {Antigenic studies with Chandlerella hawkingi, the filarial parasite of Indian jungle crow, Corvus macrorhynchos.}, journal = {The Indian journal of medical research}, volume = {67}, number = {}, pages = {34-41}, pmid = {658994}, issn = {0971-5916}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies/analysis ; *Antigens ; Bird Diseases/*immunology ; Birds ; Cross Reactions ; Filariasis/immunology/*veterinary ; Filarioidea/*immunology ; Rabbits ; }, }
@article {pmid636901, year = {1978}, author = {Andersson, E and Berg, S and Lawenius, M and Svanborg, A}, title = {Intellectual functioning in a 70-year-old urban population.}, journal = {Acta psychiatrica Scandinavica}, volume = {57}, number = {1}, pages = {59-66}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-0447.1978.tb06874.x}, pmid = {636901}, issn = {0001-690X}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Aged ; Cognition ; Educational Status ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Mental Processes ; Perception ; Sex Factors ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Sweden ; Urban Population ; }, abstract = {A subsample of 229 persons from the population study "70-year-olds in Gothenburg" was studied with different intelligence tests. The non-response was 15%, and another 4% refused to take part in the psychological examination or had handicaps which made the performance of all or some of the tests impossible. Measurements were made of verbal meaning (SRB1), reasoning (SRB2), spatial ability (SRB3), perceptual speed (Ps-if) and logical thinking and observation (Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices). There were no differences in the tests between men and women except with Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, where the men had a better score. Amongst the women, those who had received a longer education had a better score compared with those who had had less education. Norm-tables for the different tests are presented. As far as could be judged from cross-sectional comparisons the average general cognitive capability was good, even though the 70-year-olds to a higher degree were suffering from mental disorders than younger individuals and more often were living in social situations that could have influenced basic physical and mental functions. The perceptual speed was the only ability that showed a marked change at the age of 70.}, }
@article {pmid636642, year = {1978}, author = {Dobrokhotova, LP}, title = {[Comparative study of the neuronal structure of the neostriatum in birds with different extrapolation capabilities].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {28}, number = {1}, pages = {162-168}, pmid = {636642}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Axons/ultrastructure ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Columbidae/anatomy &amp; histology ; Corpus Striatum/*cytology/physiology ; Dendrites/ultrastructure ; Food ; *Judgment ; Motion Perception/physiology ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {A comparative study of the neuronal structure of neostriatum in crows possessing a great capacity for extrapolation of the movement direction of an alimentary stimulus, and in pigeons deprived of it, did not reveal any fundamental differences in the size of cells, the number of dendritic endings and dendritic ramifications. Differences were observed in the neuronal morphology. In the crow neostriatum neurones, the dendrites are thinner, more sinous and provided with a denser cover of extremely fine protoplasmatic protrusions. In corresponding pigeon neurones the dendrites are thicker, more straight and with a smaller number of rather large protoplasmatic outgrowths. Such differences apparently set up morphological prerequisites for a finer analysis and processing of information, which may contribute to greater capacity of crows for extrapolation.}, }
@article {pmid263582, year = {1978}, author = {Murphy, EA}, title = {Genetic and evolutionary fitness.}, journal = {American journal of medical genetics}, volume = {2}, number = {1}, pages = {51-79}, doi = {10.1002/ajmg.1320020107}, pmid = {263582}, issn = {0148-7299}, support = {GM19489/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Family Characteristics ; Female ; Fertility ; Genetics, Population ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Models, Genetic ; Mutation ; *Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {The advantages and disadvantages of evolutionary fitness (probability that a single mutant line will not become extinct) and genetic fitness (mean fecundity) are compared. For deterministic processes the two are equivalent, but for stochastic branching processes they may be totally unrelated except that an absolute genetic fitness of unity or less implies an evolutionary fitness of zero. To know the variance as well as the mean family size does not in general uniquely determine the evolutionary fitness. Except where genetic fitness is close to unity, the impact of selection is shown to be rapid for the binomial, Poisson, negative binomial, and truncated negative binomial distributions. Evolutionary fitness, though somewhat cumbersome, has greater relevance to evolution, genetic counseling, and voluntary population control; but genetic fitness which is much easier to handle is the more appropriate measure where a large number of mutants is involved. Some empirical data on the transmission of various types of characters from parent to child are analyzed to allow comparison of genetic fitness, Crow's index, and a Malthusian parameter, with evolutionary fitness. There is a fair, but far from perfect, agreement among them. Multiple correlation of evolutionary fitness with mean and variance of family size taken jointly suggests a much more satisfactory approximation. It thus appears that, at the least, the population geneticist cannot afford to ignore the variance (which is not adequately represented in Crow's index). These relationships, based on two sets of data only may be accidental and should be invoked with caution. It seems more than likely that other aspects of the distribution of family size (eg, even higher moments) may contain relevant information in certain cases.}, }
@article {pmid600657, year = {1977}, author = {Simon, A and Ward, LO}, title = {Influence of age, ability, and angle on pupils' judgments of size of angles.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {45}, number = {3 Pt 1}, pages = {949-950}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1977.45.3.949}, pmid = {600657}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Age Factors ; *Aptitude ; Child ; Female ; *Form Perception ; Humans ; Judgment ; Male ; *Reading ; *Space Perception ; }, abstract = {80 subjects of 11 to 14 years were tested with 8 cards on which were printed angles between 0 degrees and 180 degrees, and on the Raven's Progressive Matrices Test and the Schonell R4 Reading Test. Significant differences on performance were found in relation to age and ability variables and as between angle sizes 0 degrees--90 degrees and 90 degrees--180 degrees.}, }
@article {pmid340743, year = {1977}, author = {Sato, G and Ishiguro, N and Asagi, M and Oka, C and Kawanishi, T and Inoue, T}, title = {Biochemical characteristics and in-vitro drug sensitivity of Salmonella typhimurium, Copenhagen variety isolated from domestic and feral pigeons, crows, a kite, chickens and animals in Japan.}, journal = {Nihon juigaku zasshi. The Japanese journal of veterinary science}, volume = {39}, number = {6}, pages = {609-617}, doi = {10.1292/jvms1939.39.609}, pmid = {340743}, issn = {0021-5295}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Domestic/microbiology ; Bird Diseases/microbiology ; Birds/microbiology ; Cattle ; Chickens/microbiology ; Columbidae/*microbiology ; Drug Resistance, Microbial ; Horses/microbiology ; Japan ; Rats ; Salmonella Infections, Animal/microbiology ; Salmonella typhimurium/drug effects/*isolation &amp; purification/metabolism ; Swine/microbiology ; }, }
@article {pmid614181, year = {1977}, author = {Kanwar, U and Sheikher, C and Mehta, HS}, title = {Seasonal changes in testicular lipids of the crow Corvus splendens splendens: cytochemical &amp; biochemical studies.}, journal = {Indian journal of experimental biology}, volume = {15}, number = {11}, pages = {1040-1042}, pmid = {614181}, issn = {0019-5189}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*metabolism ; Lipids/*analysis ; Male ; *Seasons ; Testis/*analysis ; }, }
@article {pmid332615, year = {1977}, author = {Friedman, E}, title = {Medicaid: one seed for the crow (fourth of a series).}, journal = {Hospitals}, volume = {51}, number = {19}, pages = {61-66}, pmid = {332615}, issn = {0018-5973}, mesh = {Administrative Personnel ; Attitude ; Eligibility Determination ; *Hospital Administration ; Hospitals, General ; Hospitals, Teaching ; Humans ; Insurance, Health, Reimbursement ; *Medicaid/economics ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid607436, year = {1977}, author = {Dissanaike, AS and Poopalachelvam, M}, title = {Isospora and not Eimeria oocysts in the crows from Klang.}, journal = {The Southeast Asian journal of tropical medicine and public health}, volume = {8}, number = {3}, pages = {420}, pmid = {607436}, issn = {0125-1562}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/parasitology ; Eimeria/isolation &amp; purification ; Feces/*parasitology ; Isospora/*isolation &amp; purification ; Malaysia ; }, }
@article {pmid901750, year = {1977}, author = {Streefkerk, DG and Glaudemans, CP}, title = {Binding studies on anti-fructofuranan mouse myeloma immunoglobulins A47N, A4, U61, and E109.}, journal = {Biochemistry}, volume = {16}, number = {17}, pages = {3760-3765}, doi = {10.1021/bi00636a005}, pmid = {901750}, issn = {0006-2960}, mesh = {Animals ; Binding Sites, Antibody ; Carbohydrates/*immunology ; Fructose/immunology ; *Immunoglobulin A ; *Immunoglobulin Fab Fragments ; Inulin/immunology ; Ligands ; Mice ; Models, Molecular ; Molecular Conformation ; *Myeloma Proteins ; Plasmacytoma/immunology ; Precipitin Tests ; Spectrometry, Fluorescence ; }, abstract = {Four murine myeloma immunoglobulins, A4, A47N, U61, and E109, have been studied for their binding affinities with inulin and a series of oligosaccharides derived from inulin. The results indicate that the combining site of these immunoglobulins shows highest complementarity for a trifructofuranosyl sequence (A4 and A47N) and a tetrafructofuranosyl sequence (U61 and E109). The size of the combining area of the immunoglobulin E109 derived from the antigenic determinant (approximately 15 X 14 X 10 A) agrees well with the size observed on a hypothetical space model of the Fv portion of E109 (Potter, M., Rudikoff, S., Padlan, E. A., and Vrana, M. (1976), Antibodies in Human Diagnosis and Therapy, Haber, E., and Krause, R.M., Ed., New York, N.Y., Raven Press).}, }
@article {pmid916145, year = {1977}, author = {Zinkl, JG and Hurt, JJ and Hyland, JM and Dey, N and Studnicka, D and King, DD}, title = {Treatment of captive giant Canada geese affected by avian cholera.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {13}, number = {3}, pages = {294-296}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-13.3.294}, pmid = {916145}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/microbiology/*prevention &amp; control ; Birds ; Ducks ; *Geese ; Oxytetracycline/therapeutic use ; Pasteurella/isolation &amp; purification ; Pasteurella Infections/microbiology/prevention &amp; control/*veterinary ; Water Microbiology ; }, abstract = {In the spring of 1975, an epornitic of avian cholera in Nebraska affected wild waterfowl, common crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos), and a captive flock of guant Canada geese (Branta canadensis maxima). Measures taken to control the disease in the captive geese included flushing the water of their pen with fresh well water, parenteral (50mg oxytetracycline intramuscularly) and feed (tetracycline 500 g/ton) antibiotic treatment, and removing dead waterfowl and crows from the pen, and keeping wild waterfowl and crows out of the pen. Other measures taken to prevent a recurrence of the outbreak included monitoring the area with susceptible sentinel birds and culturing nasal swabs for Pasteurella multocida. Young Canada geese and wood ducks (Aix sponsa) raised in the area also were cultured before release to assure that carriers would not be released into the wild. Presently, ponds in the pen have been dried up so that the area is less attractive to wild waterfowl. Swine feeders and waterers that have been modified to discourage their use by crows are being used to feed and water the geese.}, }
@article {pmid200213, year = {1977}, author = {Chung, YS and Spradbrow, PB}, title = {Studies on poxvirus isolated from a magpig in Queensland.}, journal = {Australian veterinary journal}, volume = {53}, number = {7}, pages = {334-336}, doi = {10.1111/j.1751-0813.1977.tb00243.x}, pmid = {200213}, issn = {0005-0423}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/analysis ; Australia ; Birds/*microbiology ; Chick Embryo ; Chickens ; Cross Reactions ; Poxviridae/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification ; Poxviridae Infections/etiology/veterinary ; }, abstract = {An avian poxvirus was isolated from a black-backed magpie in Queensland. The virus produced pocks on the chorio-allantoic membrane of chicken embryos and lesions on the skin of chickens. Comparison by passive haemagglutination test and neutralisation test indicated that the virus was related more closely to pigeonpox virus than to fowlpox virus.}, }
@article {pmid325565, year = {1977}, author = {Shields, D and Blobel, G}, title = {Cell-free synthesis of fish preproinsulin, and processing by heterologous mammalian microsomal membranes.}, journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America}, volume = {74}, number = {5}, pages = {2059-2063}, pmid = {325565}, issn = {0027-8424}, mesh = {Animals ; Cell-Free System ; Dogs ; Fishes/*metabolism ; Islets of Langerhans/analysis ; Membranes/metabolism ; Microsomes/metabolism/ultrastructure ; Molecular Weight ; Pancreas/*metabolism ; Poly A/isolation &amp; purification ; Proinsulin/biosynthesis/*metabolism ; Protein Precursors/biosynthesis/*metabolism ; RNA, Messenger/isolation &amp; purification/metabolism ; Species Specificity ; Triticum ; }, abstract = {Poly(A)-containing mRNA isolated from the islets of Langerhans obtained from two species of fish, angler fish (Lophius americanus) and sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus), stimulated protein synthesis 16-fold in a wheat germ cell-free system. Characterization of the translation products by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in sodium dodecyl sulfate showed a major polypeptide weighing 11,500 daltons that was specifically precipitated by an antibody against angler fish insulin. Partial sequence analysis of the amino terminal revealed that this polypeptide is preproinsulin, in which the amino terminus of proinsulin is preceded by either 23 (angler fish) or 25 (sea raven) amino acid residues. Translation of fish islet mRNA in a wheat germ cell-free system in the presence of dog pancreas microsomal membranes led to the correct cleavage of the nascent preproinsulin, resulting in the synthesis of authentic fish proinsulin, as verified by partial sequence analysis. Moreover, the synthesized fish proinsulin was segregated, presumably into the luminal space of the dog pancreas microsomal vesicles, because it was found to be resistant to proteolysis by added trypsin and chymotrypsin. Our data thus suggest that the mechanisms and information for the transfer of secretory proteins across the microsomal membrane are highly conserved during evolution.}, }
@article {pmid864853, year = {1977}, author = {Zinkl, JG and Dey, N and Hyland, JM and Hurt, JJ and Heddleston, KL}, title = {An epornitic of avian cholera in waterfowl and common crows in Phelps County, Nebraska, in the spring, 1975.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {194-198}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-13.2.194}, pmid = {864853}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/prevention &amp; control ; Birds ; Ducks ; Geese ; Nebraska ; Pasteurella Infections/epidemiology/prevention &amp; control/*veterinary ; }, abstract = {In the spring of 1975, many species of waterfowl and common crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) were found dead in Phelps County, Nebraska. About 25,000 water fowl and at least 3,000 crows died in the epornitic. Few waterfowl were seen dying, but the crows experienced a chronic illness during which they became debilitated and were lethargic and dyspneic. Gross and microscopic lesions in the waterfowl were typical for acute avian cholera. The crows had dark, firm areas within the lungs, loosely adhered yellow fibrous material in the pericardial sac and air sacs and, occasionally, liver abscesses. Microscopically, focal purulent pneumonia was present and a fibrinopurulent exudate overlaid a granulomatous reaction on the heart and lung surfaces. Isolation of Pasteurella multocida serotype 1 confirmed the diagnosis of acute and chronic avian cholera in the waterfowl and crows, respectively.}, }
@article {pmid864852, year = {1977}, author = {Zinkl, JG and Hyland, JM and Hurt, JJ}, title = {Aspergillosis in common crows in Nebraska, 1974.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {191-193}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-13.2.191}, pmid = {864852}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Aspergillosis/pathology/*veterinary ; *Bird Diseases/pathology ; Birds ; Lung/pathology ; Nebraska ; }, abstract = {During fall 1974, approximately 1,000 to 1,500 common crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) died of aspergillosis in south-central Nebraska. The birds were debilitated, lethargic and dyspneic. On necropsy, typical lesions of aspergillosis were found in the lungs and air sacs. Histopathologic examination revealed granulomatous lesions around fungal hyphae in the respiratory system.}, }
@article {pmid907286, year = {1977}, author = {Gabrion, C}, title = {[Experimental study of the larval development of Hymenolepis stylosa (Rudolphi, 1809), Raillet, 1899 (Cestoda : cyelophyllidea) (author's transl)].}, journal = {Annales de parasitologie humaine et comparee}, volume = {52}, number = {2}, pages = {117-130}, pmid = {907286}, issn = {0003-4150}, mesh = {Animals ; Cestoda/*growth &amp; development ; Coleoptera/parasitology ; Female ; Grasshoppers/parasitology ; Hymenolepis/analysis/*growth &amp; development/ultrastructure ; Larva/growth &amp; development/ultrastructure ; Male ; Tenebrio/parasitology ; }, abstract = {Comparative studies of the larval development of Hymenolepis stylosa Rudolphi, 1809 (Cestoda : Cyclophyllidea), a parasite of Corvid birds are undertaken from three insect species. The development in the beetle, Tenebrio molitor shows that the scolex differenciation occurs before the invagination of the metacestode in the cystic vesicle. The cercomer is long, narrow and flexuous. In the grasshopper, Lousta migratoria, the development is the same one but the scolex invaganation begins early. In another beetle, Dermestes frischi, the oncosphere is stopped in the gut-wall. The morphology and development of the cysticercoids of avian species of Hymenolepis, which have a well known life cycle, are similar. Studies on the structure of the larval stages of avian and mammal species of Hymenolepis seem necessary to find the relations between the different species of this genus.}, }
@article {pmid850116, year = {1977}, author = {Karnaky, KG and Kinter, WB}, title = {Killifish opercular skin: a flat epithelium with a high density of chloride cells.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental zoology}, volume = {199}, number = {3}, pages = {355-364}, doi = {10.1002/jez.1401990309}, pmid = {850116}, issn = {0022-104X}, mesh = {Animals ; Chlorides/*metabolism ; Epithelial Cells ; Epithelium/metabolism/ultrastructure ; Fishes/*anatomy &amp; histology/metabolism ; Killifishes/*anatomy &amp; histology/metabolism ; Skin/metabolism/*ultrastructure ; }, abstract = {In teleosts the head region, particularly the gills, plays the key role in osmoregulatory NaCl transport, presumably by mechanisms located in the chloride cell. As interest has focused on specific mechanisms of chloride cell function, two classical preparations, the intact fish and the isolated, perfused gill, have continued to serve as the only available model systems. However, both of these preparations have severe limitations, e.g., as they are not flat sheets, they cannot be studied readily under the ideal thermodynamic conditions achieved with the short-circuit current technique. The present sutdy describes the histology and ultrastructure of a particular area of skin in the head region of both killifish (Fundulus heteroclitus) and sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus). This skin lies on the inside of the operculum and possesses a flat epithelium containing chloride cells. In the present study the identity of the chloride cell in this epithelium was definitively established with the electron microscope. Although the opercular epithelium from the marine sea raven contains few chloride cells, that from the euryhaline killifish adapted to pond water, 100%-, and 200% artificial seawater is predominately chloride cells. Significantly, the teleost gill has never been reported to contain more than 10% chloride cells. Thus the opercular skin of the killifish can serve as a model to study the adaptive role of chloride cells in euryhaline teleosts. A separate electrophysiological study has deminstrated that the short-circuit current technique can be applied to this skin.}, }
@article {pmid360232, year = {1977}, author = {Abuzzahab, FS and Merwin, GE and Zimmermann, RL and Sherman, MC}, title = {A double blind investigation of piracetam (Nootropil) vs placebo in geriatric memory.}, journal = {Pharmakopsychiatrie, Neuro-Psychopharmakologie}, volume = {10}, number = {2}, pages = {49-56}, doi = {10.1055/s-0028-1094519}, pmid = {360232}, issn = {0031-7098}, mesh = {Aged ; Clinical Trials as Topic ; Double-Blind Method ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Memory Disorders/*drug therapy ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Piracetam/*therapeutic use ; Placebos ; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales ; Pyrrolidinones/*therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {Fifty-six hospitalized geriatric patients between the ages of 65 and 80 were given piracetam (Nootropil) 2400 mg/day or placebo on a double blind basis over a two month period. Every patient submitted to a battery of psychological tests before and after the two month trial. These tests included the Similarities, Vocabulary, Digit Symbol, and Block Design subtests of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale; Graham Kendall Memory for Design; Benton Visual Retention; Hooper Visual Organization; Raven Colored Progressive Matrices A, AB, and B; Wechsler Memory Scale A and B; Porteus Maze and Finger Tapping. Patients who were unable to complete this battery were not included in this investigation. In addition, at pretreatment, 4 and 8 weeks, the patient completed a Profiles of Mood States, a Clinical Global Evaluation was done by the investigator, and laboratory determinations were performed. Fifty Patients completed the investigation (25 piracetam, 25 placebo). There were no significant statistical differences between the two groups of patients on all measures utilized except for the Clinical Global Evaluation, where 52% of the patients on piracetam showed minimal improvement versus 25% of the placebo group (P less than 0.05).}, }
@article {pmid320829, year = {1977}, author = {Miceli, G and Caltagirone, C and Gainotti, G}, title = {Gangliosides in the treatment of mental deterioration. A double-blind comparison with placebo.}, journal = {Acta psychiatrica Scandinavica}, volume = {55}, number = {2}, pages = {102-110}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-0447.1977.tb00145.x}, pmid = {320829}, issn = {0001-690X}, mesh = {Clinical Trials as Topic ; Drug Evaluation ; Educational Status ; Gangliosides/*therapeutic use ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Mental Disorders/*drug therapy ; Neurocognitive Disorders/drug therapy ; Neuropsychological Tests ; Placebos ; Psychological Tests ; Spatial Behavior ; Verbal Behavior ; }, abstract = {Thirty patients showing signs of mental deterioration were submitted to a neuropsychological battery before and after treatment with gangliosides. Their performances were compared, in a double-blind study, with those obtained on the same tests by 30 patients affected by similar degrees of dementia and treated with placebo. The improvement shown on Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices and on Immediate Visual Memory by the active group was significantly higher than that shown by the placebo group. Furthermore, an evaluation of the overall effect of gangliosides therapy showed a highly significant difference between the active and placebo group, still in favour of the subjects treated with gangliosides. It is concluded that gangliosides may exert a positive effect in the treatment of demential syndromes.}, }
@article {pmid913692, year = {1977}, author = {Tomek, T}, title = {The development of thermoregulation in nestlings of the rook (Corvus f. frugilegus L.).}, journal = {Folia biologica}, volume = {25}, number = {3}, pages = {341-347}, pmid = {913692}, issn = {0015-5497}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; *Body Temperature Regulation ; }, }
@article {pmid896023, year = {1977}, author = {Gainotti, G and Caltagirone, C and Miceli, G}, title = {Poor performance of right brain-damaged patients on Raven's coloured matrices: derangement of general intelligence or of specific abilities?.}, journal = {Neuropsychologia}, volume = {15}, number = {4-5}, pages = {675-679}, doi = {10.1016/0028-3932(77)90071-9}, pmid = {896023}, issn = {0028-3932}, mesh = {Brain Damage, Chronic/*physiopathology ; *Dominance, Cerebral ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; *Space Perception ; }, }
@article {pmid868380, year = {1977}, author = {Morenkov, ED and Do Kong Hun, }, title = {[Neuronal spike responses to visual stimuli in the hyperstriatal region of the brains of Corvus corone crows].}, journal = {Zhurnal evoliutsionnoi biokhimii i fiziologii}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {69-74}, pmid = {868380}, issn = {0044-4529}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Electrophysiology ; Motion Perception/*physiology ; Visual Pathways/*physiology ; Visual Perception/*physiology ; }, abstract = {Studies of impulse activity in 452 neurons of the hyperstriatal part of the forebrain in crows revealed visual projectional zone within Wulst. With deepening of microelectrode, the receptive fields shifted upward and increased in the diameter from 3--4 to 30--50 and even 90 degrees; the relative amount of directionally sensitive neurons with the preferred movement of the stimuli backward and upward increased. In rostral regions, neurons with the receptive fields in temporal areas of the visual field are located, whereas nasal areas are projected to caudal parts of the Wulst. Selectivity of neuronal reactions to changes in illumination, the size and the rate of movement of the stimuli, as well as neuronal sensitivity to repeated stimulation were demonstrated.}, }
@article {pmid831954, year = {1977}, author = {Holst-Christensen, J and Hansen, OH and Pedersen, T and Kronborg, O}, title = {Recurrent ulcer after proximal gastric vagotomy for duodenal and pre-pyloric ulcer.}, journal = {The British journal of surgery}, volume = {64}, number = {1}, pages = {42-46}, doi = {10.1002/bjs.1800640111}, pmid = {831954}, issn = {0007-1323}, mesh = {Duodenal Ulcer/surgery ; Female ; Gastric Acidity Determination ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Recurrence ; Stomach Ulcer/*surgery ; Time Factors ; *Vagotomy/methods ; }, abstract = {Factors thought to be important in the development of recurrent ulcer after proximal gastric vagotomy were investigated 1-4 years after operation in 211 patients with duodenal ulcer and in 49 with pre-pyloric ulcer. Recurrent ulcer was found in 25 patients with duodenal ulcer (12 per cent) and in 6 with pre-pyloric ulcer (12 per cent). Recurrence was not related to age, sex, duration of dyspepsia, radiological findings or peak acid output before and 10 days after vagotomy. Fifty-six patients were operated upon by the method of Amdrup and Jensen (1970), including skeletonization of about 2 cm of the oesophagus. The remaining 204 patients were operated on by a technique in which the dissection of the lesser curve was begun at the 'crow's foot' and the oesophageal dissection was extended, in most cases, to more than 4 cm above the cardia. Recurrence was more frequent among the 56 patients in the first group than among the remaining patients with duodenal ulcer. Recurrence was positively related to basal acid output after vagotomy. An increase of peak acid output of 50 per cent was seen in a smaller group with recurrence and patients with dyspepsia within 18 months of vagotomy. It was concluded that the risk of recurrence is not related to the number of parietal cells, as expressed by peak acid output to histamine. The risk may probably be reduced by extension of the oesophageal skeletonization. A marked increase in peak acid output may be seen during the first year after proximal gastric vagotomy in patients with recurrence or dyspepsia.}, }
@article {pmid1012884, year = {1976}, author = {Hartlage, LC and Lucas, TL}, title = {Differential correlates of Bender-Gestalt and Beery visual motor integration test for black and for white children.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {43}, number = {3 Pt 2}, pages = {1039-1042}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1976.43.3f.1039}, pmid = {1012884}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {Achievement ; *Black or African American ; *Bender-Gestalt Test ; Child ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Learning Disabilities/diagnosis ; *Motor Skills ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {The Bender-Gestalt and Beery Developmental Test of Visual Motor Integration were administered to 58 black and 33 white children, aged 10-5, mean IQ of 81, of comparable socioeconomic class. WISC, Peabody, Raven Matrices, and Wide Range Achievement Test scores were correlated separately for each racial group. No test appeared to have unique value in helping alleviate possible racial differences in test performance, correlated with achievement test scores at levels exceeding correlation of the WISC with such scores.}, }
@article {pmid998663, year = {1976}, author = {Budoff, M and Corman, L}, title = {Effectiveness of a learning potential procedure in improving problem-solving skills of retarded and nonretarded children.}, journal = {American journal of mental deficiency}, volume = {81}, number = {3}, pages = {260-264}, pmid = {998663}, issn = {0002-9351}, mesh = {Adolescent ; *Association Learning ; Child ; *Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; *Education of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities ; Evaluation Studies as Topic ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; *Learning ; Male ; Practice, Psychological ; *Problem Solving ; Social Class ; }, abstract = {In this study we sought to determine the effectiveness of learning potential training on improving children's probelm-solving skills on Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices. A sample of 553 retarded and nonretarded students were pretested, randomly assigned to trained or nontrained groups, and posttested. Analyses of variance on factor scores derived from a varimax rotation of item responses revealed that learning potential training was effective in increasing the ability to reason by analogy of both retarded and nonretarded children. The learning potential procedure provided learning experiences related to reasoning skills that may not have been previously acquired in school.}, }
@article {pmid977457, year = {1976}, author = {Franti, CE and Riemann, HP and Behymer, DE and Suther, D and Howarth, JA and Ruppanner, R}, title = {Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in wild and domestic animals in northern California.}, journal = {Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association}, volume = {169}, number = {9}, pages = {901-906}, pmid = {977457}, issn = {0003-1488}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Domestic/immunology ; Antibodies/*analysis ; Birds/immunology ; California ; Carnivora/immunology ; Cattle/immunology ; Mice/immunology ; Raccoons/immunology ; Rats/immunology ; Sciuridae/immunology ; Sheep/immunology ; Toxoplasma/*immunology ; }, abstract = {Wild and domestic animals from 3 geographic-climatologic areas in northern California were tested for antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii. A total of 2,796 serum samples representing 37 species of wild mammals, 35 species of wild birds, and 5 species of domestic animals were tested by the indirect hemagglutination test. Of 1,174 wild mammal serums tested, 10.8% were positive, which compared with 14.7% of the 1,221 domestic mammal serums. Of 229 wild carnivores tested, 45% were seropositive, including 69% of 86 bobcats, 28% of 58 coyotes, 48% of 25 raccoons, 27% of 26 gray foxes, 22% of 32 striped skunks, a civet cat, and a mink. Serologic evidence of infection was found in 38% of 47 rural domestic cats, but none of the 7 dogs tested was seropositive. Of 160 murid rodents (rats and house mice) in rural habitats, 4% were seropositive, which compared with 2% of 399 cricetine rodents (mostly deer mice) collected from wilderness habitats. Seven percent of 56 wild Artiodactyla (deer and feral pigs) were seropositive, which compared with 15% of 1,048 domestic sheep tested. Of 401 birds tested, 3.5% had antibodies against T gondii. The highest prevalence of antibodies among birds was in crows (14%). Toxoplasma was isolated from 1 raven, by mouse inoculation. In general, the highest prevalence of seropositive carnivores, rodents, and sheep was in the coastal region below 100 ft elevation, where the weather is cool and damp for much of the year. In the central valley the highest prevalence among sheep was in areas under irrigation. The prevalence of antibodies was lowest in the mountain areas, where climatologic extremes prevail at various seasons of the year.}, }
@article {pmid794548, year = {1976}, author = {Asagi, M and Oka, C and Sato, G}, title = {Isolation of Salmonella typhimurium var. copenhagen from crows in the city of Otaru.}, journal = {Nihon juigaku zasshi. The Japanese journal of veterinary science}, volume = {38}, number = {5}, pages = {521-522}, doi = {10.1292/jvms1939.38.521}, pmid = {794548}, issn = {0021-5295}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*microbiology ; Japan ; Salmonella typhimurium/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, }
@article {pmid1000990, year = {1976}, author = {Colombo, A and De Renzi, E and Faglioni, P}, title = {The occurrence of visual neglect in patients with unilateral cerebral disease.}, journal = {Cortex; a journal devoted to the study of the nervous system and behavior}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, pages = {221-231}, doi = {10.1016/s0010-9452(76)80003-2}, pmid = {1000990}, issn = {0010-9452}, mesh = {Brain Damage, Chronic/*complications ; Brain Mapping ; *Dominance, Cerebral ; Humans ; Perceptual Disorders/diagnosis/*etiology ; Psychometrics ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Visual neglect for the contralateral space has been reported to occur more frequently and more severely following right than left brain damage. The present study sought to determine whether this hemispheric difference is task dependent, i.e. is maximal for tests demanding a thorough exploration and minimal for tests leaving space scanning to the patient's initiative. The findings supported this hypothesis. When the occurrence of neglect was assessed by means of a copying drawings test omissions of details contralateral to the involved hemisphere were found only in the right brain-damaged patient. When the patient was required to bisect a line or to choose the correct response among the alternatives of the Raven test, a tendency for preferring the homolateral hemi-space was also shown by left brain-damaged patients, although it was much more marked in the right-sided group. When patients were asked to insert balls in the holes of a board, both hemispheric groups showed a preference for the homolateral space. The incidence of constructional apraxia was evaluation in the same hemispheric groups and found not to be significantly different.}, }
@article {pmid997988, year = {1976}, author = {Ammann, R and Erne, H}, title = {[Personality and scholastic achievement].}, journal = {Sozial- und Praventivmedizin}, volume = {21}, number = {5}, pages = {215-216}, doi = {10.1007/BF01998113}, pmid = {997988}, issn = {0303-8408}, mesh = {*Achievement ; Adolescent ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; MMPI ; *Personality ; Schools ; Social Class ; Switzerland ; }, abstract = {Based on the data of the "Basle Adolescents Study" 7 scales of the MMPI and the IQ according to Raven were compared with the average of grades. Teachers confirmed socially desirable personality traits with good grades and gave lower grades to pupils with a less desirable personality.}, }
@article {pmid962664, year = {1976}, author = {Parkes, M and Fein, W}, title = {Further experience with the pinch technique for repair of eyelid deformities.}, journal = {Archives of ophthalmology (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)}, volume = {94}, number = {9}, pages = {1534-1536}, doi = {10.1001/archopht.1976.03910040368012}, pmid = {962664}, issn = {0003-9950}, mesh = {Anesthesia, Local/methods ; Ectropion/prevention &amp; control/surgery ; Eyelids/*surgery ; Humans ; Hyaluronoglucosaminidase/therapeutic use ; Surgery, Plastic/*methods ; }, abstract = {The pinch technique has been found to be useful in repairing cosmetic eyelid deformities. However, the local anesthetic containing hyaluronidase must be injected only in small amounts and only into the subcutaneous space. Scar tissue and skin that is firmly adherent to underlying muscle do not yield a satisfactory ridge, and therefore, the pinch technique should not be used. Ectropion can be predicted by the observation of eversion of the lid margin when even only minimal skin is pinched, and impending ectropion can be discovered by our "lean forward and look up" maneuver. An ectropion repair can then be combined with the blepharoplasty surgical operation. The pinch technique has also been found useful when upper and lower blepharoplasties are joined laterally to elevate the lateral canthus and eliminate "crow's feet." One component of a repair of trichiasis also involves the use of the pinch technique.}, }
@article {pmid956802, year = {1976}, author = {Andreasen, NC}, title = {Do depressed patients show thought disorder?.}, journal = {The Journal of nervous and mental disease}, volume = {163}, number = {3}, pages = {186-192}, doi = {10.1097/00005053-197609000-00006}, pmid = {956802}, issn = {0022-3018}, mesh = {Adult ; Association ; *Depression/therapy ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; *Thinking ; Verbal Behavior ; }, abstract = {Twenty-one patients suffering from major depressive disorder are compared for evidence of thought disorder on admission and at the time of discharge. Two aspects of cognition are evaluated: the ability to abstract, and the quality of association. These aspects of cognition were tested using the Shipley-Hartford, the Raven Progressive Matrices, and the Goldstein-Scheerer Object Sorting Test. Althouh the patients showed some improvement in ability to abstract, and although their associations became somewhat less underinclusive or improverished, these improvements did not achieve statistical significance. Consequently, this group of depressed patients did not appear to show any thought disorder of the type under investigation.}, }
@article {pmid1085103, year = {1976}, author = {Stein, Z and Susser, M and Saenger, G}, title = {Mental retardation in a national population of young men in the Netherlands. II. Prevalence of mild mental retardation.}, journal = {American journal of epidemiology}, volume = {104}, number = {2}, pages = {159-169}, doi = {10.1093/oxfordjournals.aje.a112286}, pmid = {1085103}, issn = {0002-9262}, mesh = {Adult ; Cross-Sectional Studies/methods ; Education of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities ; Humans ; Intellectual Disability/diagnosis/*epidemiology ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Netherlands ; Religion ; Risk ; Social Class ; Social Environment ; Urbanization ; }, abstract = {The prevalence of mild mental retardation in 19-year-old survivors of male births during 1944-1947 is derived from military records. The data are singular in that they are national, virtually complete for a total population of more than 400,000 men and include attributes not previously examined. They allow for the simultaneous use of three criteria: education (history of special schooling), psychometric (Raven intelligence test score), and clinical diagnosis (ICD (1948) 325.2, 325.3), which yielded rates per 1000 of 30,58 and 61, respectively. Rates by all three criteria varied in similar fashion with father's occupation and with religious affiliation. Rates by the psychometric and diagnostic criteria were higher for rural- and urban-born, while rates by the special schooling criterion were lower for rural-born. These variations are presumed to indicate deficiencies in rural provisions of special schooling on the one hand, and a substantive increment in "true" prevalence on the other. Marked variations in rates by province are not accounted for by social class and urban/rural birthplace. A rise in rates in the 1947 birth cohort on the psychometric and diagnostic criteria but not on the schooling criterion is attributable to a scoring change in the IQ criterion. Relative risks are estimated for the psychometric criterion of low Raven test score according to father's occupation, urban-rural origin, and religious affiliation. The overlap of identification among individuals designated by one, two, or three of the criteria is examined, and the issue of labeling is explored.}, }
@article {pmid993699, year = {1976}, author = {Stevens, ED and Sutterlin, AM}, title = {Heat transfer between fish and ambient water.}, journal = {The Journal of experimental biology}, volume = {65}, number = {1}, pages = {131-145}, doi = {10.1242/jeb.65.1.131}, pmid = {993699}, issn = {0022-0949}, mesh = {Animals ; Body Temperature Regulation ; Fishes/*physiology ; Gills/physiology ; Oxygen Consumption ; Skin Physiological Phenomena ; }, abstract = {1. The ability of fish gills to transfer heat was measured by applying a heat pulse to blood in the ventral aorta and measuring it before and after passing through the gills of a teleost, Hemitripterus americanus. 2. 80-90% of heat contained in the blood is lost during passage through the gills. 3. The fraction of heat not lost during passage through the gills is due to direct transfer of heat between the afferent and efferent artery within the gill bar. 4. The major fraction of metabolic heat (70 - 90%) is lost through the body wall and fins of the sea raven in sea water at 5 degrees C; the remainder is lost through the gills.}, }
@article {pmid983330, year = {1976}, author = {Zinov'eva, IB and Zorina, ZA}, title = {[Extrapolation capability in crows following destruction of the Wulst and archicortex].}, journal = {Zhurnal obshchei biologii}, volume = {37}, number = {4}, pages = {600-607}, pmid = {983330}, issn = {0044-4596}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Cerebral Cortex/*physiology ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; }, }
@article {pmid941933, year = {1976}, author = {Budoff, M and Hamilton, JL}, title = {Optimizing test performance of moderately and severely mentally retarded adolescents and adults.}, journal = {American journal of mental deficiency}, volume = {81}, number = {1}, pages = {49-57}, pmid = {941933}, issn = {0002-9351}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Aptitude ; Child ; Color Perception ; Education of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities ; Female ; Form Perception ; Hospitalization ; Humans ; *Intellectual Disability ; *Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Stanford-Binet Test ; Teaching/methods ; Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {This study provided further evidence for the validity of a learning potential assessment procedure with institutionalized moderately and severely retarded adolescents and adults. Significant positive correlations were obtained between psychometric and learning scores, attendants' and teachers' ratings of ability, and the posttraining scores on the modified Kohs Extended Learning Potential procedure. In addition, performance on this test-train-test procedure was compared with a train-within-test format for two different tasks: training embedded within the administration of the Leiter International Performance Scale and a formboard version of Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices. The students responded equally to the two formats. Stanford-Binet IQs were least predictive of performance on the three learning potential measures and were unrelated to teachers' and attendants' ratings of ability. The implications of these data were discussed with particular attention to the potential advantages of the train-within-test model.}, }
@article {pmid950634, year = {1976}, author = {Morton, RO and Gershwin, ME and Brady, C and Steinberg, AD}, title = {The incidence of systemic lupus erythematosus in North American Indians.}, journal = {The Journal of rheumatology}, volume = {3}, number = {2}, pages = {186-190}, pmid = {950634}, issn = {0315-162X}, mesh = {Humans ; *Indians, North American ; Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/*epidemiology ; United States ; }, abstract = {The annual incidence (AI) of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was determined in 75 highly inbred North American Indian tribes, a total of approximately 800,000 people, during the fiscal years 1971-1975. Seventy-two of the Indian tribes had an AI of SLE which was of similar magnitude to previously published studies from Sweden, Rochester (Minn.), Alabama, New York City, and San Francisco. However, Three tribes, the Crow, Arapahoe, and Sioux Indians, had a markedly elevated AI of SLE. These three tribes share common historical, geographic, and cultural characteristics. Further, they all reside in the northern half of the United States, in states that do not receive intense sun exposure, thereby eliminating photosensitivity as a major determinant of this increased prevalence. Finally, the AI of SLE in the Sioux Indians was highest for "full-blooded" members and lowest for genetic admixtures.}, }
@article {pmid961120, year = {1976}, author = {Simons, D}, title = {["Counting" experiments with ravens using "matching-from-sample" methods. A contribution on problem-solving behavior in higher aniMALS].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Tierpsychologie}, volume = {41}, number = {1}, pages = {1-33}, pmid = {961120}, issn = {0044-3573}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Concept Formation ; Female ; Male ; *Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {The research goal is divided into two parts: 1. Detailed analysis of behavior in selection in a 6-choice matching-from-sample task. 2. Discussion of all observed preferences on the basis of the models of Sutherland and Mackintosh and of Miller, Galanter and Pribram. The experiments were run with 4 one-year-old ravens (Corvus corax); two of them were probably 2 males. The design is similar to Koehler's. In the task the correct responses were equally distributed between all stimuli and positions (random system). Although the task ("counting") was learned, a lot of relevant preferences for stimuli, positions, patterns etc. show that problem-solving in higher animals can be very complex. It could be shown that only a detailed analysis may clarify animal learning processes.}, }
@article {pmid952494, year = {1976}, author = {Bhalla, V and Bhatia, K}, title = {Isonymy in a Bhatia leut.}, journal = {Annals of human genetics}, volume = {39}, number = {4}, pages = {497-500}, doi = {10.1111/j.1469-1809.1976.tb00158.x}, pmid = {952494}, issn = {0003-4800}, mesh = {Female ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; *Inbreeding ; India ; Male ; *Models, Biological ; }, abstract = {Isonymy has been described in a North Indian Hindu Community, which shows surname exogamy. A modification is suggested in the formula of Crow and Mange for the estimation of FIS to make it applicable to populations exhibiting clan exogamy. The values of FIS obtained by different methods are compared.}, }
@article {pmid951540, year = {1976}, author = {Bernstein, MH}, title = {Ventilation and respiratory evaporation in the flying crow, Corvus ossifragus.}, journal = {Respiration physiology}, volume = {26}, number = {3}, pages = {371-382}, doi = {10.1016/0034-5687(76)90007-4}, pmid = {951540}, issn = {0034-5687}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; *Body Temperature Regulation ; *Flight, Animal ; Lung/physiology ; Oxygen ; Oxygen Consumption ; *Respiration ; Temperature ; Tidal Volume ; }, abstract = {Tidal volume (VT), respiration frequency (f) and respiratory evaporation (mre) were measured in the passeriform fish crow, Corvus ossifragus (mass 0.28 kg), during steady state, horizontal, wind-tunnel flight, at air speeds of 7.4-11.0 m-sec-1 and air temperatures (TA) of 12-28 degrees C. Ventilation (V1) of the respiratory system was calculated as f-VT. All parameters were independent of speed. Respiration frequency was independent of TA. VT and V1 were independent of TA below 23 degrees C, but above 23 degrees C increased linearly, as did mre. Oxygen extraction (E), the fraction of available oxygen removed from respiratory system air, was calculated using oxygen consumption data (VO2) reported previously, and VI. E was independent of TA below 23 degrees C, where mean E, similar to that in crows resting at 20 degrees C, was substantially higher than in resting mammals of the same mass. E decreased at higher TA, reflecting hyperventilation accompanying elevated mre. mre accounted for the loss of only 17% of total metabolic heat production (Hp), as calculated from VO2, with a partial efficiency of 25%. Thus most heat loss must follow cutaneous evaporative, or nonevaporative routes.}, }
@article {pmid817236, year = {1976}, author = {}, title = {Nutriton classics. Public Health Reports, Volume 56, 1941, pages 761-792. Domestic water and dental caries. II. A study of 2,832 white children, aged 12-14 years, of 8 suburban Chicago communities, including Lactobacillus acidophilus studies of 1,761 children. By H. Trendley Dean, Philip Jay, Francis A. Arnold, Jr., and Elias Elvove.}, journal = {Nutrition reviews}, volume = {34}, number = {4}, pages = {116-118}, doi = {10.1111/j.1753-4887.1976.tb05724.x}, pmid = {817236}, issn = {0029-6643}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Child ; Dental Caries/*history ; Fluorides/analysis ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Illinois ; Lactobacillus acidophilus ; Saliva/microbiology ; Water Supply/analysis ; }, }
@article {pmid773368, year = {1976}, author = {Carter-Saltzman, L and Scarr-Salapatek, S and Barker, WB and Katz, S}, title = {Left-handedness in twins: incidence and patterns of performance in an adolescent sample.}, journal = {Behavior genetics}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {189-203}, pmid = {773368}, issn = {0001-8244}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Black or African American ; Child ; Cognition/*physiology ; Concept Formation/physiology ; Female ; *Functional Laterality ; Humans ; Male ; Pregnancy ; Projective Techniques ; Sex Factors ; Space Perception/physiology ; *Twins ; Twins, Dizygotic ; Twins, Monozygotic ; Verbal Behavior/physiology ; }, abstract = {Data on handedness and cognitive performance in an adolescent sample of same-sex twins were collected, and questions about incidence of left-handedness in twins and the relation between handedness and cognitive performance were considered. Same-sex twins have been found to have a higher incidence of left-handedness than that usually reported in the general population. There is a high incidence of handedness discordance (one twin right-handed and his cotwin left-handed) in both monozygotic and dizygotic twin pairs. In this sample, males and Blacks had particularly high rates of left-handedness. Among the monozygotic and dizygotic discordant pairs, quite different patterns of cognitive performance were found. On the Raven Progressive Matrices, the Columbia Test of Mental Maturity, and the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test, the left-handers did better than their right-handed cotwins in the monozygotic pairs and the right-handers did better than their left-handed cotwins in the dizygotic pairs. Within subjects, no signficant differences were found for superiority of spatial or verbal abilities for either right-handers or left-handers. No general statements can be made about the performance of left-handed twins, since performance differs according to zygosity and handedness of cotwin configurations.}, }
@article {pmid1261281, year = {1976}, author = {Costa, LD}, title = {Interset variability on the raven coloured progressive matrices as an indicator of specific ability deficit in brain-lesioned patients.}, journal = {Cortex; a journal devoted to the study of the nervous system and behavior}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {31-40}, doi = {10.1016/s0010-9452(76)80027-5}, pmid = {1261281}, issn = {0010-9452}, mesh = {Brain Diseases/complications/*diagnosis ; *Dominance, Cerebral ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Perceptual Disorders/*diagnosis/etiology ; *Psychological Tests ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {Patients with right cerebral lesions were found to have lower RCPM scores than a matched group of patients with left lesions. Analysis of interset patterns of performance demonstrated relatively greater difficulty for right lesion patients, especially those with posterior lesions on the Ab set. The findings were interpreted in terms of the abilities that Raven maintains underly test performance.}, }
@article {pmid1064581, year = {1976}, author = {Felix, R and Wintner, I and Amit, M and Honig, Y}, title = {A comparative psychological study of the Samaritan community -- developmental aspects as revealed by the Raven, D-A-P and Bender Gestalt tests.}, journal = {The Israel annals of psychiatry and related disciplines}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, pages = {27-38}, pmid = {1064581}, issn = {0021-1958}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Child ; *Cross-Cultural Comparison ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Israel ; Jordan ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Personality Development ; *Psychological Tests ; Sex Factors ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid1255354, year = {1976}, author = {Cooper, CL and Crites, JL}, title = {Community ecology of helminth parasitism in an insular passerine avifauna.}, journal = {The Journal of parasitology}, volume = {62}, number = {1}, pages = {105-120}, pmid = {1255354}, issn = {0022-3395}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*parasitology ; Birds ; Helminthiasis/parasitology ; *Helminthiasis, Animal ; }, abstract = {Three hundred and thirty specimens of 7 species of passerine birds from South Bass Island, Ottawa County, Ohio, were examined for helminth parasites. The total number of helminth specimens collected was 4,333. Forty-one helminth taxa were identified. Ten species of helminths were identified as having foci of infection on the island. An index of association for these 10 species is presented. The low association revealed between helminth species utilizing common species of intermediate hosts indicated that a single intermediate host specimen is likely to harbor infective stages of only one species of parasitic helminth. An index of similarity is presented to express the species importance relationships of the helminth faunas of the 7 species of birds: red-winged blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus), blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata), brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater), common grackles (Quiscalus quiscula), house sparrows (Passer domesticus), starlings (Sturnus vulgaris), and robins (Turdus migratorius). The results reveal that competition between these avian species for invertebrate food resources helps to maximize the transmission of those helminth populations which utilize these same invertebrates as intermediate hosts. The aggregation of birds into mixed feeding flocks insures a heavy loading of the feeding grounds with agents infective for the invertebrate populations.}, }
@article {pmid1274428, year = {1976}, author = {Zorina, ZA and Popova, NP}, title = {[A comparison of problem solving by extrapolation before and after removal of the archicortex and Wulst in cows].}, journal = {Zhurnal vysshei nervnoi deiatelnosti imeni I P Pavlova}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {127-131}, pmid = {1274428}, issn = {0044-4677}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Brain/*physiology ; Brain Mapping ; Problem Solving/*physiology ; }, abstract = {The change in the capacity for extrapolation was studied in crows after ablation of Wulst and the archicortex. After the ablation of the archicortex, the solution of the extrapolation problem does not change. After the ablation of Wulst, the number of "refusals" to solve increases, the number of correct responses diminishes, although it remains significantly higher than the number of errors. It is assumed that the archicortex and Wulst play no decisive part in the process of solving problems involving extrapolation; yet Wulst apparently controls the achievement of the final reaction, by-passing the screen.}, }
@article {pmid1252703, year = {1976}, author = {Smart, DE and Beumont, PJ and George, GC}, title = {Some personality characteristics of patients with anorexia nervosa.}, journal = {The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science}, volume = {128}, number = {}, pages = {57-60}, doi = {10.1192/bjp.128.1.57}, pmid = {1252703}, issn = {0007-1250}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Anorexia Nervosa ; Anxiety/diagnosis ; Dependency, Psychological ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence Tests ; Introversion, Psychological ; Neurotic Disorders/diagnosis ; Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder/diagnosis ; *Personality ; Personality Inventory ; }, abstract = {Twenty-two female patients with anorexia nervosa were assessed by means of objective personality testing. The EPI, Leyton Obsessional Inventory, Cattell's 16 PF and Raven's Matrices were used for this purpose. The personality profile that emerged was of a highly neurotic and introverted person with moderately severe obsessional features and average intelligence.}, }
@article {pmid1107381, year = {1976}, author = {Avery, JK}, title = {Philip Jay, 1898-1974. President of the IADR, 1943-1944.}, journal = {Journal of dental research}, volume = {55}, number = {1}, pages = {4-5}, doi = {10.1177/00220345760550012101}, pmid = {1107381}, issn = {0022-0345}, mesh = {Dentistry ; History, 20th Century ; Michigan ; }, }
@article {pmid1032325, year = {1976}, author = {Sobrero, L and Paggi, L and Manilla, G}, title = {[New faunal and biological observations on ticks in Abruzzo].}, journal = {Parassitologia}, volume = {18}, number = {1-3}, pages = {109-118}, pmid = {1032325}, issn = {0048-2951}, mesh = {Animals ; Animals, Wild/parasitology ; Dermacentor/growth &amp; development ; Female ; Male ; *Ticks/classification/growth &amp; development ; }, abstract = {Ticks collected during the years 1975-76 in Abruzzo (Prov. l'Aquila and Chieti) Italy are reported. The following species have been identified: Ixodes canisuga, Ixodes frontalis, Ixodes hexagonus, Ixodes ricinus, Dermacentor marginatus, Haemaphysalis sulcata, Rhipicephalus bursa, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Hyalomma marginatum. New hosts are: Felis catus for Ixodes canisuga; Scolopax rusticola, Motacilla flava, Corvus cornix for Ixodes frontalis; Sciurus vulgaris for Haemaphysalis punctata; Garrulus glandarius for Haemaphysalis sulcata. For Italy the following records are new: hosts: Corvus frugilegus for Ixodes frontalis; Coturnix coturnix and Alauda arvensis for Haemaphysalis sulcata; immature stages: Ixodes canisuga on Vulpes vulpes; Ixodes frontalis on Turdus merula; Haemaphysalis punctata on Coturnix coturnix, Phasianus colchicus, Erinaceus europaeus, Lepus europaeus; Accordingly numerous species, hosts and seasonal records are new for Abruzzo.}, }
@article {pmid1026266, year = {1976}, author = {Voronov, NP}, title = {[Comparative study of the digestive organs of passerine birds (Corvidae)].}, journal = {Nauchnye doklady vysshei shkoly. Biologicheskie nauki}, volume = {}, number = {8}, pages = {51-55}, pmid = {1026266}, issn = {0470-4606}, mesh = {Animals ; Beak/anatomy &amp; histology ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Digestive System/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Intestines/anatomy &amp; histology ; Liver/anatomy &amp; histology ; Organ Size ; Stomach, Avian/anatomy &amp; histology ; }, }
@article {pmid1010496, year = {1976}, author = {Dusbábek, F}, title = {Argas (Argas) vulgaris Filippova, 1961, a new member of Czechoslovak tick fauna.}, journal = {Folia parasitologica}, volume = {23}, number = {3}, pages = {281-283}, pmid = {1010496}, issn = {0015-5683}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/parasitology ; Czechoslovakia ; Ticks/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification ; }, abstract = {In the eastern part of the Czechoslovak Socialist Republic the occurrence of the soft tick Argas (A.) vulgaris Fil., 1961 was established in four localities. All findings were made in synanthropic nesting sites of Columbia livia Gm. and Corvus frugilegus L. in the belfries and lofts of churches.}, }
@article {pmid941527, year = {1976}, author = {Hartung, ML and Lehrl, S}, title = {[Psychological findings in a group of patients with perioral dermatitis].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychoanalyse}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {110-114}, pmid = {941527}, issn = {0340-5613}, mesh = {Dermatitis/*diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Interpersonal Relations ; MMPI ; Mouth Diseases/*diagnosis ; *Personality ; Personality Inventory ; Personality Tests ; Rorschach Test ; Social Conformity ; }, abstract = {Female patients suffering from perioral dermatitis were given the Raven Test, two personality inventories (MMPI and FPI) and the Rorschach Test. The results of these four tests show statistically significant differences from controls, indicating emotional immaturity combined with high intelligence level, inability to achieve satisfactory interpersonal relationships contrasting with an overemphasis upon social conformity, and a tendency to 'hysteriform' reactions.}, }
@article {pmid940916, year = {1976}, author = {Gebhardt, R and Neumann, H}, title = {[Intelligence related to IQ test and personality characteristics. A comparison of the WAIS and Raven's Progressive Matrices].}, journal = {Psychotherapie, medizinische Psychologie}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {23-31}, pmid = {940916}, issn = {0302-8984}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Mental Disorders/diagnosis ; Middle Aged ; *Personality ; Wechsler Scales ; }, }
@article {pmid819913, year = {1976}, author = {Noblet, R and Moore, HS and Noblet, GP}, title = {Survey of leucocytozoon in in South Carolina.}, journal = {Poultry science}, volume = {55}, number = {1}, pages = {447-449}, doi = {10.3382/ps.0550447}, pmid = {819913}, issn = {0032-5791}, mesh = {Animals ; *Apicomplexa ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology ; Birds ; Chickens ; Columbidae ; Ducks ; Geese ; Poultry Diseases/epidemiology ; Protozoan Infections/epidemiology ; *Protozoan Infections, Animal ; South Carolina ; }, abstract = {An extensive survey of birds for Leucocytozoon in South Carolina during the summer of 1972 revealed that Blue Jays, Purple Grackles and domestic chickens were commonly infected. No alternate hosts were found for Leucocytozoon smithi of turkeys.}, }
@article {pmid785721, year = {1976}, author = {}, title = {Jay George Linn, 1886-1975.}, journal = {Transactions - Pennsylvania Academy of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology}, volume = {29}, number = {1}, pages = {7-8}, pmid = {785721}, issn = {0048-3206}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; Ophthalmology/history ; Otolaryngology/history ; Pennsylvania ; }, }
@article {pmid135472, year = {1976}, author = {Vyas, DK and Jacob, D}, title = {Seasonal study of the adrenal gland of some Indian avian species.}, journal = {Acta anatomica}, volume = {95}, number = {4}, pages = {518-528}, doi = {10.1159/000144639}, pmid = {135472}, issn = {0001-5180}, mesh = {Acid Phosphatase/metabolism ; Adrenal Glands/*anatomy &amp; histology/metabolism ; Alkaline Phosphatase/metabolism ; Animals ; Ascorbic Acid/metabolism ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Body Weight ; Female ; Glycogen/metabolism ; Glycosaminoglycans/metabolism ; Lipid Metabolism ; Male ; Organ Size ; Reproduction ; Seasons ; Species Specificity ; }, abstract = {Adrenal glands of eight Indian species of birds, namely Columba livia, Passer domesticus, Corvus splendens, Acridotheres tristis, Acridotheres ginginianus, Milvus migrans, Francolinus pondicerianus and Bubulcus ibis were examined during the sexually active and inactive phases of their annual reproductive cycles. Excepting A ginginianus and M. migrans, among members of either sex of the remaining six species the weight of the adrenal gland increases during the period of sexual activity. Histologically, the interrenal tissue of these birds could be divided into a peripheral subcapsular zone and a central zone. The cytochemical content of these two zones varies between sexual activity and inactivity. In sexually active birds of both sexes, interrenal cells of the central zone exhibit an increased concentration of alkaline phosphatase, glycogen, acid mucopolysaccharides and gross lipids, while in the subcapsular interrenal cells there is a prominent increase of ascorbic acid content. Cytochemical contents of chromaffin cells remain unchanged except acid phosphatase, which increases during the sexually active phase.}, }
@article {pmid1238436, year = {1975}, author = {Rust, J}, title = {Cortical evoked potential, personality, and intelligence.}, journal = {Journal of comparative and physiological psychology}, volume = {89}, number = {10}, pages = {1220-1226}, doi = {10.1037/h0077178}, pmid = {1238436}, issn = {0021-9940}, mesh = {Acoustic Stimulation ; Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Anxiety/diagnosis ; Boredom ; Cerebral Cortex/*physiology ; *Evoked Potentials ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Personality ; Personality Inventory ; Pregnancy ; Prisoners ; Psychological Theory ; Reaction Time ; Twins ; }, abstract = {The averaged cortical evoked potential (CEP) was measured from 296 male subjects in two studies and was correlated with scores on intelligence and personality tests. For both studies, auditory stimuli were used with bipolar electrode placement to the Cz and T3 scalp positions. In the first study, with 84 subjects, stimulus intensity was 95 dB (all dB readings re 20 muN/m2). Intelligence was measured with the Mill Hill Vocabulary Scale and personality with H. J. Eysenck's PEN questionnaire. The second study, with 212 subjects, used additional stimuli at 75 dB and 55 dB. Intelligence was measured with the Ravens Progressive Matrices. State anxiety and other state measures at the time of testing were also taken. Neither study found any relation between the CEP and IQ or personality. However, more bored subjects showed larger CEP amplitudes. The results are discussed in terms of Ertl's neural efficiency hypothesis and Eysenck's arousal theory of personality.}, }
@article {pmid1207096, year = {1975}, author = {Wilson, JJ and Rapin, I and Wilson, BC and Van Denburg, FV}, title = {Neuropsychologic function of children with severe hearing impairment.}, journal = {Journal of speech and hearing research}, volume = {18}, number = {4}, pages = {634-652}, doi = {10.1044/jshr.1804.634}, pmid = {1207096}, issn = {0022-4685}, mesh = {Audiometry ; Brain Damage, Chronic/*complications ; Child ; Cognition Disorders/*complications ; Deafness/*complications ; Female ; Humans ; Intelligence ; Language Development ; Male ; Memory ; Motor Skills ; Neurologic Examination ; Physical Examination ; Psychological Tests ; Space Perception ; Stereognosis ; Touch ; Vision Disorders/*complications ; }, abstract = {A neuropsychologic and medical study was carried out on a selected sample of 34 hearing-impaired children aged seven to 10 years at the onset of the study. In 16 children the cause of the hearing loss was thought to be exogenous. Eight of these had evidence for organic brain dysfunction. Nine children were thought to have genetic etiologies, and in nine no cause could be determined (sporadic hearing loss). Medical examination revealed several unsuspected abnormalities, particularly visual ones. Motor and visual motor deficits were frequent among hearing-impaired children with brain damage. The Performance Scale of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, and Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices, as well as the Paper Folding item of the Hiskey-Nebraska Test of Learning Aptitude appeared sensitive to the presence of brain damage. The mean score for the WISC Performance Scale fell within the average range for hearing children, supporting previous findings of cognitive competence of the deaf. In this sample, Hiskey-Nebraska scores tended to be lower than WISC scores. Reasons for this discrepancy were suggested and did not appear to be accounted for by brain damage. Deficits in items requiring visual memory, sequencing, and categorization were relatively prevalent but showed no etiologic predilection. They were thought to be related to the consequence of hearing loss rather than to brain damage. Difficulty with stereognosis highlighted the problem of deciding why a hearing-impaired child might fail a particular task. This difficulty suggested that failure might not indicate a deficit in the function the task was designed to measure, but rather, reliance on an inefficient strategy for success.}, }
@article {pmid1209689, year = {1975}, author = {Kobayashi, M and Mitsuhashi, H}, title = {Marine sterols. VI(1). Sterols of the scallop, Patinopecten yessoensis.}, journal = {Steroids}, volume = {26}, number = {5}, pages = {605-624}, doi = {10.1016/0039-128x(75)90054-9}, pmid = {1209689}, issn = {0039-128X}, mesh = {Animals ; Chromatography, Gas ; Mass Spectrometry ; Mollusca/*analysis ; Optical Rotation ; Seawater ; Sterols/*analysis ; }, abstract = {The sterols of the scallop, Patinopecten yessoensis Jay, was found to contain over 20 components. The major components were delta5-sterols, and lesser amount of ring-saturated sterols were also present. Biogenetically unusual C26 sterols (24-norcholesta-5,22-dien-3beta-ol and 24-norcholest-22-en-3beta-ol) and 24(28)-cis-24-propylidenecholest-5-en-3beta-ol (29-methylisofucosterol), 22-trans-27-nor-(24S)-24-methylcholesta-5,22-dien-3beta-ol (occelasterol), and a new sterol, 22-trans-27-nor-(24S)-24-methylcholest-22-en-3beta-ol (patinosterol), were isolated and their structures were confirmed. Occurrence of 22-trans-(24S)-24-methylcholesta-5,22-dien-3beta-ol (24-epibrassicasterol) was confirmed. 22-cis-Cholesta-5,22-dien-3beta-ol was not found.}, }
@article {pmid1218375, year = {1975}, author = {Kertesz, A and McCabe, P}, title = {Intelligence and aphasia: performance of aphasics on Raven's coloured progressive matrices (RCPM).}, journal = {Brain and language}, volume = {2}, number = {4}, pages = {387-395}, doi = {10.1016/s0093-934x(75)80079-4}, pmid = {1218375}, issn = {0093-934X}, mesh = {*Aphasia ; Brain Damage, Chronic ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; *Intelligence Tests ; Language ; Speech ; }, }
@article {pmid1176357, year = {1975}, author = {Pearson, GL and McCann, MK}, title = {The role of indigenous wild, semidomestic, and exotic birds in the epizootiology of velogenic viscerotropic Newcastle disease in southern California, 1972-1973.}, journal = {Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association}, volume = {167}, number = {7}, pages = {610-614}, pmid = {1176357}, issn = {0003-1488}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology/immunology/microbiology ; Birds ; California ; Columbidae ; Ducks ; Geese ; Newcastle Disease/*epidemiology/immunology/microbiology ; Newcastle disease virus/isolation &amp; purification ; Psittaciformes ; Quail ; }, abstract = {During an epornitic of velogenic viscerotropic Newcastle disease (VVND) in southern California, free-flying wild birds, captive and free-ranging semidomestic birds, and exotic birds were collected from the quarantine area to determine their role in the epizootiology of the disease. The VVND virus was isolated from 0.04% of 9,446 free-flying wild birds, 0.76% of 4,367 semidomestic birds, and 1.01% of 3,780 exotic birds examined. Three house sparrows and 1 crow directly associated with infected poultry flocks were the only free-flying wild birds from which VVND virus was isolated. Among semidomestic species, ducks, quail, chukars, pheasants, peafowl, pigeons, and doves were found to be infected. Psttacines, pittas, and toucans accounted for 92% of the VVND virus isolations from exotic birds. In addition, domestic Newcastle disease virus (NDV) was isolated from 0.29% of the free-flying wild birds, from 1.65% of the semidomestic birds, and from 0.19% of the exotic birds collected. Hemagglutination-inhibition against domestic NDV was demonstrated in 0.24% of 3,796 wild bird serums, 8.28% of 2,004 semidomestic bird serums, and 3.90% of 231 exotic bird serums tested. Although few free-flying wild birds were infected with VVND virus in this epornitic, the isolation of domestic NDV strains from free-flying wild ducks and mourning doves suggests the potential for transportation of NDV over long distances by migratory birds.}, }
@article {pmid1166457, year = {1975}, author = {van Nie, GJ}, title = {[Possible chloralose poisoning in buzzards (author's transl)].}, journal = {Tijdschrift voor diergeneeskunde}, volume = {100}, number = {19}, pages = {1052-1053}, pmid = {1166457}, issn = {0040-7453}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*chemically induced ; Birds ; Chloralose/*poisoning ; Eggs ; Pest Control ; }, abstract = {The use of alpha-chloralose in poisoned eggs is conditionally permitted in the control of Corvidae. Chloralose does not have a selective action. Poisoning occurs in other egg-eating animals (hedgehogs) and, indirectly, in carrion-eating predators which prey on these unintended victims. A tentative diagnosis of alpha-chloralose poisoning in three buzzards (Buteo buteo) was based on the history, the clinical picture (identical with that in magpies with known chloralose poisoning), the complete recovery and the exclusion of other diseases. Other methods for the control of Corvidae are advocated.}, }
@article {pmid175553, year = {1975}, author = {Obidor, EL and Pankov, BG}, title = {[Persistence of the foot-and-mouth disease virus in experimentally infected jackdaws].}, journal = {Veterinariia}, volume = {}, number = {9}, pages = {47-48}, pmid = {175553}, issn = {0042-4846}, mesh = {Animals ; Aphthovirus/*isolation &amp; purification ; Birds/*microbiology ; Carrier State/microbiology ; Foot-and-Mouth Disease/*microbiology ; Time Factors ; }, }
@article {pmid1211748, year = {1975}, author = {Mahe, E and Camblin, J}, title = {[Resection of the depressor muscle of the tip in esthetic rhinoplasties].}, journal = {Annales d'oto-laryngologie et de chirurgie cervico faciale : bulletin de la Societe d'oto-laryngologie des hopitaux de Paris}, volume = {92}, number = {7-8}, pages = {381-387}, pmid = {1211748}, issn = {0003-438X}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Male ; Muscles/surgery ; Rhinoplasty/*methods ; }, abstract = {Musculus depressor septi nasi is a muscle of facial expression, supplied by the facial nerve, it is more or less visible according to the individual. Easily exposed, using the intersepto-columellar incision, it is dissected from the skin surrounding it, then resected and in cases where the muscle is clearly defined, he can be brought up immediately. We consider resection of the musculus depressor septi nasi to be invaluable in rhinoplasty: -- firstly, to keep the tip of the nose well positioned during; -- secondly, to prevent certain "pseudo crow's-bill" deformities; -- finally, to give an impression of length to certain short upper (white ?) lips.}, }
@article {pmid1155587, year = {1975}, author = {Crawford, MH and Goldstein, E}, title = {Demography and evolution of an urban ethnic community: Polish Hill, Pittsburgh.}, journal = {American journal of physical anthropology}, volume = {43}, number = {1}, pages = {133-140}, doi = {10.1002/ajpa.1330430117}, pmid = {1155587}, issn = {0002-9483}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Communicable Diseases/mortality ; Cultural Characteristics ; Demography ; *Ethnicity ; Female ; Fertility ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Mortality ; Pennsylvania ; Poland/ethnology ; *Selection, Genetic ; Sex Ratio ; Urban Population ; }, abstract = {Polish Hill is an urban, ethnic enclave of approximately 3000 residents residing in a 25-block area of Pittsburgh. This paper documents changes in the fertility, morbidity, and mortality patterns in the community from the turn of the century to the present. The demographic reconstruction is based upon baptismal and marriage records, the administration of demographic proformae and population censuses. The high mortality, morbidity, and fertility variance suggest that the immigrant population has experienced a period of high opportunity for selection in the early 1900's and that Crow's index was gradually reduced to its present level.}, }
@article {pmid1150894, year = {1975}, author = {Raven, JL and Robson, MB}, title = {Extraction of serum vitamin B12 for radio-isotopic and Lactobacillus leichmannii assay.}, journal = {Journal of clinical pathology}, volume = {28}, number = {7}, pages = {531-539}, pmid = {1150894}, issn = {0021-9746}, mesh = {Lactobacillus ; Papain ; Radioligand Assay/methods ; Statistics as Topic ; Vitamin B 12/blood/*isolation &amp; purification ; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency ; }, abstract = {The protein precipitates discarded during the extraction process of the Lactobacillus leichmannii vitamin B12 assay have been shown to contain significant amounts of vitamin B12. This loss of vitamin B12 provide a satisfactory explanation for many of the descrepancies between the serum vitamin B12 values obtained by the L. leichmannii method and the radio-isotopic method of Raven et al (1969). It is possible to produce lower results by the method of Raven et al (1969)by incorporating into that method the L. leichmannii extraction process; it is also possible to produce higher results by the L. leichmannii method using a papain extraction process.}, }
@article {pmid1137554, year = {1975}, author = {Huston, JP}, title = {Reinterpretation of Crow et al.'s "Electrophysiological correlates of cortical spreading depression".}, journal = {Behavioral biology}, volume = {14}, number = {3}, pages = {403-404}, doi = {10.1016/s0091-6773(75)90595-7}, pmid = {1137554}, issn = {0091-6773}, mesh = {Animals ; *Cortical Spreading Depression ; Electrodes ; *Electrophysiology ; Methods ; Rats ; }, }
@article {pmid168411, year = {1975}, author = {Harrigan, KE and Barker, IK and Studdert, MJ}, title = {Poxvirus infection in the white-backed magpie (Gymnorhina hypoleuca) and pox-like conditions in other birds in Australia.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {343-347}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-11.3.343}, pmid = {168411}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Australia ; *Bird Diseases/microbiology/pathology ; Birds ; Canaries ; Chickens ; Columbidae ; Poxviridae/ultrastructure ; Poxviridae Infections/microbiology/pathology/*veterinary ; Turkeys ; }, abstract = {Lesions, grossly and histologically typical of pox infection, occurred in a white-backed magpie from Melbourne, Australia. Electron microscopic examination revealed typical poxvirus particles in lesion material. The disease was experimentally transmitted to other magpies, but chickens, turkeys, pigeons, and canaries were refractory to experimental infection with magpie poxvirus. The epidemiology of magpie pox and the probable occurrence of pox-like disease in other native Australian birds are discussed.}, }
@article {pmid1099918, year = {1975}, author = {Wild, BW}, title = {The Prentice medalist for 1974-Jay M. Enoch.}, journal = {American journal of optometry and physiological optics}, volume = {52}, number = {6}, pages = {435}, doi = {10.1097/00006324-197506000-00011}, pmid = {1099918}, issn = {0093-7002}, mesh = {Awards and Prizes ; History, 20th Century ; Optometry/history ; }, }
@article {pmid1215578, year = {1975}, author = {Freire-Maia, A}, title = {[Human genetics studies in areas of high natural radiation. VII. Genetic load].}, journal = {Revista brasileira de pesquisas medicas e biologicas}, volume = {8}, number = {3-4}, pages = {287-299}, pmid = {1215578}, issn = {0034-7310}, mesh = {Brazil ; Demography ; *Genetics, Medical ; Humans ; Mathematics ; *Radiation Genetics ; }, abstract = {Two methods to estimate the inbreeding load (Morton, Crow and Muller17 1956; Freire-Maia and Freire-Maia6 1965) are reviewed. Both are employed in the analysis of our data. Besides the total population, a sample constituted of individuals with no alien ancestral is also analysed. No clean effect of natural radioactivity, as measured by genetic load models, has been found (this is especially valid for abortions, pre-natal mortality, anomalies, and abnormalities in general). The results on stillbirths and post-natal and total mortalities are discussed, and it is concluded that most probably the differences found are due to uncontrolled concomitant variables (if not to chance alone). Further analysis are under way.}, }
@article {pmid1149465, year = {1975}, author = {Costa, LD}, title = {The relation of visuospatial dysfunction to digit span performance in patients with cerebral lesions.}, journal = {Cortex; a journal devoted to the study of the nervous system and behavior}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {31-36}, doi = {10.1016/s0010-9452(75)80018-9}, pmid = {1149465}, issn = {0010-9452}, mesh = {Aphasia/complications/etiology ; Brain Damage, Chronic/complications/*diagnosis ; Dominance, Cerebral ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Memory Disorders/etiology ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Middle Aged ; *Space Perception ; Visual Fields ; *Visual Perception ; }, abstract = {DSF and DSB performance was compared in hospitalized controls and right and left brain lesion groups dichotomized for the presence or absence of visuospatial deficits. Digit Span performance was also correlated with WAIS Similarities and Block Design and Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices. No differences between groups were observed on DSF. On DSB patients with brain lesions had lower scores than controls and brain-lesioned patients with visuospatial deficits had lower scores than those without. DSB correlated significantly with WAIS Block Design and Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices supporting the hypothesis that visuospatial ability is needed to mediate proper DSB performance. The correlation of DSB with WAIS Similarities, however, lends support to the idea that low DSB may merely reflect severity of cognitive deficit.}, }
@article {pmid1179952, year = {1975}, author = {Gaud, J and Atyeo, WT}, title = {[Sarcoptic feather mites (Freyanidae), parasites of the magpie goose, Anseranas semipalmata Latham].}, journal = {Acarologia}, volume = {16}, number = {3}, pages = {506-521}, pmid = {1179952}, issn = {0044-586X}, mesh = {Animals ; Feathers/parasitology ; Female ; Geese/parasitology ; Male ; Mites/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification ; }, }
@article {pmid1118223, year = {1975}, author = {Oleske, JM}, title = {Letter: Not all children are magpies.}, journal = {Pediatrics}, volume = {55}, number = {2}, pages = {297-298}, pmid = {1118223}, issn = {0031-4005}, mesh = {Child, Preschool ; Environment ; Humans ; Infant ; Lead Poisoning/*etiology/prevention &amp; control ; Mother-Child Relations ; Pica/*complications/diagnosis ; }, }
@article {pmid805364, year = {1975}, author = {Pandey, J}, title = {Further studies on heterozygous effects of radiation on viability of Drosophila melanogaster.}, journal = {Mutation research}, volume = {27}, number = {2}, pages = {249-255}, doi = {10.1016/0027-5107(75)90084-6}, pmid = {805364}, issn = {0027-5107}, mesh = {Animals ; Chromosomes/radiation effects ; Drosophila melanogaster/*radiation effects ; Female ; Genes, Lethal ; Genes, Recessive ; *Heterozygote ; Inbreeding ; Male ; Mutation ; Probability ; Radiation Dosage ; *Radiation Genetics ; Spermatozoa/radiation effects ; X-Rays ; }, abstract = {Drosophila second chromosomes which had received a dose of 1000 R of X-rays were studied for heterozygous effects of newly-induced mutations on viability. In both homozygous and heterozygous backgrounds, the mean effect of radiation was not significantly different from zero. The results, therefore, do not support the experiments of Wallace and Mukai nor those reported by Maruyama and Crow.}, }
@article {pmid1233887, year = {1975}, author = {Kerr, WE}, title = {Population genetic studies in bees (APIDAE, Hymenoptera). I. Genetic load.}, journal = {Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciencias}, volume = {47}, number = {2}, pages = {319-334}, pmid = {1233887}, issn = {0001-3765}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bees ; *Genetics, Population ; Inbreeding ; Mutation ; }, abstract = {Three populations of Apis mellifera each predominantly of a different subspecies (mellifera, ligustica and adansonii) and 7 species of stingless bees (Meliponinae, Apidae) were manipulated for applying the MORTON, CROW &amp; MULLER's methodology in order to estimate the lethal equivalents (B) of each population. A total of 249 queens were used, 27 being meliponids and 222 Apis mellifera. The populations of Apis have a B that does not differ significantly when they are compared to each other (1.29, 1.36, 1.32) and the balanced average equals 1.33. When the x-alleles are not considered, this balanced value is 0.262. The figures for B in the seven species of stingless bees ranged between 0.104 and 0.159 with balanced average of 0.132. The main reason for this smaller load in meliponids may rest in their effective population numbers, which are smaller than those of Apis. The average mortality for diploid females (0.141) and for haploid males (0.163) allows the estimation of the total elimination (sigma E = 0.073). Since for haplo-diploid systems the total mutation rate is sigma mu = 2 sigma E divided by 3 the figure 0.048 is obtained. Since about 15% of the genes in Apis mellifera are sex limited, this value of sigma mu should be added of 0.0072 (that is 0.15 X 0.048) and then, the total mutation rate becomes 0.055. Using a quite different method, the one by MORTON, CROW &amp; MULLER, the figure 0.076 was obtained. If a mutation rate of 10(-5) is assumed, the number of genes in Apis mellifera that can make a contribution to the genetic load would vary between 5,500 and 7,600.}, }
@article {pmid1202581, year = {1975}, author = {Drunkenmölle, C}, title = {[Psychological investigations on patients with breast carcinoma (A pilot study)].}, journal = {Psychiatria clinica}, volume = {8}, number = {3}, pages = {127-139}, pmid = {1202581}, issn = {0033-264X}, mesh = {Adult ; Attitude to Health ; *Breast Neoplasms/complications ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Neurotic Disorders/complications ; Personality Inventory ; Pilot Projects ; Psychology ; }, abstract = {A pilot study was undertaken on patients with breast carcinoma to establish guidelines for improvements in patient care and health education. Of 113 patients who were asked to attend for examination after they had completed ray therapy only 40 turned up. After a half hour exploration the patients were asked to fill in the following: a complaints inventory questionnaire according to Hess; the Raven's progressive matrices; the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory; the 16-PF of Cattell et al., and a questionnaire regarding attitudes to the illness. The connections between fear and length of delay were discussed. It appears possible to distinguish neurotic from non-neurotic patients with carcinoma. A few working hypotheses were developed which could be tested on a larger number of patients.}, }
@article {pmid1187900, year = {1975}, author = {Friedman, L}, title = {The struggle in psychotherapy: its influence on some theories.}, journal = {Psychoanalytic review}, volume = {62}, number = {3}, pages = {453-462}, pmid = {1187900}, issn = {0033-2836}, mesh = {Freudian Theory ; Humans ; *Psychoanalytic Theory ; *Psychoanalytic Therapy/methods ; }, abstract = {If the theories of Jerome Frank, Jay Halley, and Hans Strupp are considered as a conversation with the spirit of psychoanalysis, the subject of the conversation appears to be the struggle involved in psychotherapy. Beyond implying that there is such a struggle, the theories do not satisfactorily establish its nature. The author suggests that the struggle may have to do with the therapist's insistence on what Frank calls a sheltered environment for patient experimentation.}, }
@article {pmid1115226, year = {1975}, author = {Neel, JV and Weiss, KM}, title = {The genetic structure of a tribal population, the Yanomama Indians. XII. Biodemographic studies.}, journal = {American journal of physical anthropology}, volume = {42}, number = {1}, pages = {25-51}, doi = {10.1002/ajpa.1330420105}, pmid = {1115226}, issn = {0002-9483}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; Aged ; Birth Rate ; Blood Group Antigens ; Brazil ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Consanguinity ; Demography ; Female ; Fertility ; *Genetics, Population ; Humans ; *Indians, South American ; Infant ; Infant Mortality ; Infant, Newborn ; Infanticide ; Male ; Menarche ; Middle Aged ; Models, Theoretical ; Mortality ; Physical Examination ; Population Growth ; Pregnancy ; Pregnancy Tests ; Sex Factors ; Venezuela ; }, abstract = {The Yyanomama Indians of Southern Venezuela and Northern Brazil are one of the largest, relatively unacculturated tribes of the tropical rain forest. Over a period of eight years data have been collected from a considerable portion of their territory on estimated age, sex ratio, fertility rates (as determined by physical examination and urine tests), and infant death rates. Although it has been impossible to collect direct data on infanticide, this subject can be approached indirectly through distortions of the sex ratio and anecdotal information. Some historical data are also available as a basis for estimating tribal expansion in the past 100 years. With this material it has been possible to construct Life Tables for the anomama,, and to explore the results of various perturbations of the input parameters. Data are also presented on patterns of mating and reproduction: number of spouses, mean and variance in number of surviving children, frequency of "extra-marital conceptions" based on the results of extensive blood group typings, and consanguinity rates as determined by observation and computer simulation. Although we do not present the Yanomama as typical, these data are seen as providing a basis for more realistic population models than have existed in the past. In addition, the data provide a basis for relatively precise estimates of such demographic measures as Fisher's Reproductive Value, Crow's Index of Total Selection, and Weiss' Index of Growth Regulation.}, }
@article {pmid1109393, year = {1975}, author = {Cunningham, WR and Clayton, V and Overton, W}, title = {Fluid and crystallized intelligence in young adulthood and old age.}, journal = {Journal of gerontology}, volume = {30}, number = {1}, pages = {53-55}, doi = {10.1093/geronj/30.1.53}, pmid = {1109393}, issn = {0022-1422}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; *Aging ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Middle Aged ; Problem Solving ; Statistics as Topic ; Verbal Learning ; }, abstract = {The theory of fluid and crystallized intelligence predicts that the relationship between these two abilities will decline systematically across the age span after young adulthood. In order to test this hypothesis in an elderly sample, the Raven Progressive Martices and the WAIS vocabulary subtest were administered to a sample of individuals (N=40), ranging in age from 60 to 79, and also, for purposes of comparison, to a sample of young adults (N=35). It was found that the correlation was significantly lower in the elderly sample (.386) than in the young adult sample (.672).}, }
@article {pmid773154, year = {1975}, author = {Hornung, SM}, title = {In memoriam--Dr. Philip Jay.}, journal = {Alumni bulletin. University of Michigan. School of Dentistry}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {45-49}, pmid = {773154}, issn = {0887-4387}, mesh = {Bacteriology/history ; Dental Caries/prevention &amp; control ; Dentistry ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Male ; Michigan ; }, }
@article {pmid235202, year = {1975}, author = {Trubitsyn, BI and Voronin, ES and Dzhibilov, II and Shcherbakova, OE}, title = {Contamination of some avian species with viruses of the leukosis-sarcoma complex.}, journal = {Acta virologica}, volume = {19}, number = {1}, pages = {78-83}, pmid = {235202}, issn = {0001-723X}, mesh = {Age Factors ; Animals ; Antibodies, Viral/analysis ; Antigens, Viral/analysis ; Avian Sarcoma Viruses/immunology/*isolation &amp; purification/pathogenicity ; Birds/*microbiology ; Chick Embryo/immunology ; Complement Fixation Tests ; Ducks ; Liver/immunology ; Neutralization Tests ; Poultry ; Quail ; Species Specificity ; USSR ; }, abstract = {Contamination of 8 avian species with leukosis viruses was studied. An insignificant portion of sera from 4 and 24 months old chickens contained neutralizing antibody to 3 sero-types (A, B and D) of Rous sarcoma virus (RSV). Sera from guinea-fowl reacted positively in the neutralization test only with the RSV-RAV-1 strain. None of the Peking duck and semi-domestic Maran fowl sera was found to contain antibody to RSV strains. Twenty-five and 6.6% of embryos derived from 7-8 and 24 to 30 months old chickens respectively, 30% of liver specimens from 3-4 months old chickens 3.3% of liver specimens from adult guinea-fowl and 72% of liver specimens from Maran fowl contained the group-specific leukosis complement-fixing antigen (gs-antigen). Duck embryos and livers from 24-30 months old chickens, crows, sparrows, rooks or jackdaws contained no gs-antigen. Duck embryos did not react and ducklings reacted poorly to inoculation with RSV whereas guinea-fowl embryos and chickens proved to be highly susceptible to RSV.}, }
@article {pmid7126, year = {1975}, author = {Picot, H and Lavarde, V and Donsimoni, JM and Jay, M}, title = {[Presence of Angiostrongylus cantonensis at la Réunion].}, journal = {Acta tropica}, volume = {32}, number = {4}, pages = {381-383}, pmid = {7126}, issn = {0001-706X}, mesh = {Adult ; Animals ; Cerebrospinal Fluid/cytology ; Child ; Disease Vectors ; Eosinophils ; Humans ; Indian Ocean Islands ; Male ; Meningitis/*epidemiology/parasitology ; Rats ; Snails ; Strongyloidea/*isolation &amp; purification ; }, abstract = {The eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis is well known on Madagascar and on Mauritius Island, but was never described on Reunion Island. Two cases have been lately oberved in Doctor Jay's department at Gabriel Martin's hospital. Local achatines were dissected and contained larvae which, when absorbed by rats, were found in there brains ten days later. These larvae belong certainly to Angiostrongylus genus, but the species has not yet been found with certitude. Lately infested rats are passing through the normal laps of time for adult maturation until they will be sacrified for further examinations.}, }
@article {pmid4476962, year = {1974}, author = {Voronov, NP}, title = {[The rate of digestive system development during the postnatal period of young Corvus monedula L. jackdaws and Corvus frugilegus L. rooks (a morphometric study)].}, journal = {Zhurnal obshchei biologii}, volume = {35}, number = {6}, pages = {934-943}, pmid = {4476962}, issn = {0044-4596}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*growth &amp; development ; Digestive System/*growth &amp; development ; }, }
@article {pmid4434280, year = {1974}, author = {Cooper, CL and Crites, JL}, title = {The helminth parasites of the blue jay, Cyanocitta cristata bromia, from South Bass Island, Ohio.}, journal = {Canadian journal of zoology}, volume = {52}, number = {11}, pages = {1421-1423}, doi = {10.1139/z74-180}, pmid = {4434280}, issn = {0008-4301}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology ; Birds ; Helminthiasis/epidemiology ; *Helminthiasis, Animal ; Ohio ; }, }
@article {pmid4422272, year = {1974}, author = {Pinkerton, RE and Badke, FR}, title = {Coronary heart disease. An epidemiologic study of Crow and Northern Cheyenne Indians.}, journal = {Rocky Mountain medical journal}, volume = {71}, number = {10}, pages = {577-583}, pmid = {4422272}, issn = {0035-760X}, mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Coronary Disease/*epidemiology ; Female ; Humans ; Indians, North American ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Montana ; }, }
@article {pmid4421219, year = {1974}, author = {Bernstein, MH and Schmidt-Nielsen, K}, title = {Ventilation and oxygen extraction in the crow.}, journal = {Respiration physiology}, volume = {21}, number = {3}, pages = {393-401}, doi = {10.1016/0034-5687(74)90069-3}, pmid = {4421219}, issn = {0034-5687}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; *Oxygen Consumption ; *Respiration ; Temperature ; }, }
@article {pmid4413556, year = {1974}, author = {Guttman, R}, title = {Genetic analysis of analytical spatial ability: Raven's progressive matrices.}, journal = {Behavior genetics}, volume = {4}, number = {3}, pages = {273-284}, pmid = {4413556}, issn = {0001-8244}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Age Factors ; *Aptitude Tests ; Child ; *Family ; Female ; Form Perception ; Genetics, Medical ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Pattern Recognition, Visual ; Sex Factors ; *Space Perception ; }, }
@article {pmid4530035, year = {1974}, author = {Hsu, CC and See, R and Lin, CC}, title = {[6-year longitudinal study of urban primary school students' responses to Raven's Progressive Matrices in Taiwan].}, journal = {Taiwan yi xue hui za zhi. Journal of the Formosan Medical Association}, volume = {73}, number = {8}, pages = {451-460}, pmid = {4530035}, issn = {0371-7682}, mesh = {Child ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Sex Factors ; Taiwan ; }, }
@article {pmid4841590, year = {1974}, author = {Ligon, JD}, title = {Green cones of the piñon pine stimulate late summer breeding in the piñon jay.}, journal = {Nature}, volume = {250}, number = {461}, pages = {80-82}, doi = {10.1038/250080a0}, pmid = {4841590}, issn = {0028-0836}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; Diet ; Feeding Behavior ; Female ; Male ; Plants ; *Reproduction ; *Seasons ; *Seeds ; }, }
@article {pmid4852001, year = {1974}, author = {Cross, KW and Turner, RD}, title = {Factors affecting the visiting pattern of geriatric patients in a rural area.}, journal = {British journal of preventive &amp; social medicine}, volume = {28}, number = {2}, pages = {133-139}, pmid = {4852001}, issn = {0007-1242}, mesh = {Aged ; England ; Female ; *Geriatrics ; Hospital Planning ; *Hospital Units ; *Hospitalization ; Humans ; Length of Stay ; Male ; Residence Characteristics ; *Rural Population ; }, abstract = {For a period of one week, all visitors to Shropshire patients in geriatric units were interrogated about the method, duration, and starting point of their journey to hospital. These data, together with those of the patients, were used to examine the extent to which the duration of hospital stay, and the `crow-fly' distances of patients' and visitors' homes from the hospitals, affected visiting rates. The pronounced effect of the first factor underlines the need to consider separately those patients requiring assessment and rehabilitation from those requiring mainly custodial care when the siting of hospitals for geriatric patients is being planned. The visiting pattern for the former type of patient was not materially affected by the distance of the patient's home from hospital (within a range of 0-32 kilometres), whereas visiting rates for long-stay patients decreased rapidly as distance increased beyond 16 kilometres (10 miles).}, }
@article {pmid4823247, year = {1974}, author = {Powell, RW}, title = {Comparison of differential reinforcement of low rates (DRL) performance in pigeons (Columba livia) and crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos).}, journal = {Journal of comparative and physiological psychology}, volume = {86}, number = {4}, pages = {736-746}, doi = {10.1037/h0036167}, pmid = {4823247}, issn = {0021-9940}, mesh = {Animals ; Biological Evolution ; Birds/*physiology ; Color Perception ; Columbidae/*physiology ; *Conditioning, Operant ; Discrimination, Psychological ; Extinction, Psychological ; Feeding Behavior ; Inhibition, Psychological ; Photic Stimulation ; *Reinforcement Schedule ; Species Specificity ; Time Factors ; }, }
@article {pmid4833580, year = {1974}, author = {Ohta, T and Kimura, M}, title = {Simulation studies on electrophoretically detectable genetic variability in a finite population.}, journal = {Genetics}, volume = {76}, number = {3}, pages = {615-624}, pmid = {4833580}, issn = {0016-6731}, mesh = {*Alleles ; Animals ; Electrophoresis ; Enzymes ; Gene Frequency ; *Genetic Variation ; Humans ; *Models, Biological ; Mutation ; *Operations Research ; Polymorphism, Genetic ; Selection, Genetic ; }, abstract = {Using a new model of isoalleles, extensive Monte Carlo experiments were performed to examine the pattern of allelic distribution in a finite population. In this model it was assumed that the set of allelic states is represented by discrete points on a one-dimensional lattice and that change of state by mutation occurs in such a way that an allele moves either one step in the positive direction or one step in the negative direction on the lattice. Such a model was considered to be appropriate for estimating theoretically the number of electrophoretically detectable alleles within a population. The evenness of allelic distribution was measured by the ratio of the effective to the actual number of alleles (n(e)/n(a)). The results of the Monte Carlo experiments have shown that this ratio is generally larger under the new model of isoalleles than under the conventional Kimura-Crow model of neutral isoalleles. In other words, the distribution of allelic frequencies within a population is expected to be more uniform in the new model. By comparing the Monte Carlo results with actual observations, it was concluded that the observed deviation from what is predicted under the new model with selective neutrality is not in the direction of conforming to the overdominance hypothesis but is, in fact, in the opposite direction.}, }
@article {pmid4821096, year = {1974}, author = {Raven, JL and Robson, MB}, title = {Experience with a commercial kit for the radioisotopic assay of vitamin B12 in serum: the Phadebas B12 test.}, journal = {Journal of clinical pathology}, volume = {27}, number = {1}, pages = {59-65}, pmid = {4821096}, issn = {0021-9746}, mesh = {Anemia, Pernicious/blood/diagnosis ; Biological Assay ; Cobalt Radioisotopes ; Humans ; Lactobacillus ; Methods ; Time Factors ; Vitamin B 12/*blood ; }, abstract = {The first commercial kit for the radioisotopic assay of vitamin B(12) in serum-the Phadebas B(12) Test produced higher values than the radioisotopic method of Raven, Robson, Walker, and Barkham (1969) and the Lactobacillus leichmannii microbiological assay. Its normal range was 300-1100 pg/ml and its reproducibility was similar to that of the other radioisotopic method. It should be possible to lower the results obtained by the Phadebas method by modifying its standard curve and to reduce the time taken for the assay by shortening its incubation period.}, }
@article {pmid4549487, year = {1974}, author = {Webster, RG and Isachenko, VA and Carter, M}, title = {A new avian influenza virus from feral birds in the USSR: recombination in nature?.}, journal = {Bulletin of the World Health Organization}, volume = {51}, number = {4}, pages = {325-332}, pmid = {4549487}, issn = {0042-9686}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/microbiology ; Influenza A virus/*classification ; *Recombination, Genetic ; Serotyping ; USSR ; }, abstract = {Six avian influenza A viruses isolated in the USSR were characterized antigenically by using specific antisera to the isolated surface subunits of the known reference strains. Three of the viruses, all isolated from the same region, were characterized as A/duck/Ukraine/63 (Hav7 Neq2), and a virus isolated from a crow was of the Hong Kong/68 (H3 N2) type. The remaining two viruses were novel in that they possessed Hav7 Nav2 antigens, a combination that has not previously been reported. It is suggested that these new influenza viruses might have arisen by recombination in nature between the A/duck/Ukraine/63 (Hav7 Neq2) and A/tern/So. Africa/61 (Hav5 Nav2) strains of avian influenza viruses.}, }
@article {pmid4750607, year = {1973}, author = {Belmont, L and Marolla, FA}, title = {Birth order, family size, and intelligence.}, journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {182}, number = {4117}, pages = {1096-1101}, doi = {10.1126/science.182.4117.1096}, pmid = {4750607}, issn = {0036-8075}, mesh = {Adult ; Age Factors ; *Birth Order ; *Family Characteristics ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Netherlands ; Sampling Studies ; Sex Factors ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Statistics as Topic ; }, abstract = {The relation of birth order and family size to intellectual performance, as measured by the Raven Progressive Matrices, was examined among nearly all of 400,000 19-year-old males born in the Netherlands in 1944 through 1947. It was found that birth order and family size had independent effects on intellectual performance. Effects of family size were not present in all social classes, but effects of birth order were consistent across social class.}, }
@article {pmid4522054, year = {1973}, author = {Hsu, CC and See, R and Lin, CC}, title = {[Assessment of learning potential of Chinese children with Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices].}, journal = {Taiwan yi xue hui za zhi. Journal of the Formosan Medical Association}, volume = {72}, number = {12}, pages = {658-670}, pmid = {4522054}, issn = {0371-7682}, mesh = {*Aptitude Tests ; Child ; *Educational Measurement ; Humans ; Taiwan ; }, }
@article {pmid4778577, year = {1973}, author = {Rietschel, G}, title = {[Studies on the life history of some nematode-species occurring in crows (Corvidae) (author's transl)].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Parasitenkunde (Berlin, Germany)}, volume = {42}, number = {4}, pages = {243-250}, pmid = {4778577}, issn = {0044-3255}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Coleoptera ; Disease Reservoirs ; Disease Vectors ; Grasshoppers ; Houseflies ; Nematoda/*growth &amp; development ; *Nematode Infections ; Oligochaeta ; Parasites ; Snails ; Tenebrio ; }, }
@article {pmid4578016, year = {1973}, author = {Sandler, SG}, title = {Thomas Holley Chivers, M.D. (1809-1858) and the origin of Edgar Allan Poe's "The Raven".}, journal = {The New England journal of medicine}, volume = {289}, number = {7}, pages = {351-354}, doi = {10.1056/NEJM197308162890706}, pmid = {4578016}, issn = {0028-4793}, mesh = {*Famous Persons ; Georgia ; History, 19th Century ; Literature, Modern ; *Poetry as Topic ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid4749256, year = {1973}, author = {Pollet, J and Lallemant, Y and Gehanno, P and Hagege, }, title = {[Cutaneous resections for the correction of the so-called "crow's beak" deformity after rhinoplasty].}, journal = {Annales d'oto-laryngologie et de chirurgie cervico faciale : bulletin de la Societe d'oto-laryngologie des hopitaux de Paris}, volume = {90}, number = {7}, pages = {481-484}, pmid = {4749256}, issn = {0003-438X}, mesh = {Cicatrix ; Dermatologic Surgical Procedures ; Female ; Humans ; Methods ; Nose/*surgery ; *Surgery, Plastic/adverse effects ; }, }
@article {pmid4585539, year = {1973}, author = {Rogerson, CT}, title = {Fred Jay Seaver 1877-1970.}, journal = {Mycologia}, volume = {65}, number = {4}, pages = {721-724}, pmid = {4585539}, issn = {0027-5514}, mesh = {History, 20th Century ; Mycology/education/*history ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid4711821, year = {1973}, author = {Aleksiuk, M}, title = {Temperature-dependent enzyme kinetics during avian ontogeny: malate dehydrogenase in the common crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and the pintail (Anas acuta).}, journal = {Canadian journal of zoology}, volume = {51}, number = {6}, pages = {557-565}, doi = {10.1139/z73-082}, pmid = {4711821}, issn = {0008-4301}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*metabolism ; Ducks/*metabolism ; Electrophoresis, Starch Gel ; Kinetics ; Malate Dehydrogenase/*metabolism ; Temperature ; }, }
@article {pmid4145438, year = {1973}, author = {Marder, J}, title = {Body temperature regulation in the brown-necked raven (Corvus corax ruficollis). II. Thermal changes in the plumage of ravens exposed to solar radiation.}, journal = {Comparative biochemistry and physiology. A, Comparative physiology}, volume = {45}, number = {2}, pages = {431-440}, doi = {10.1016/0300-9629(73)90450-7}, pmid = {4145438}, issn = {0300-9629}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*physiology ; *Body Temperature Regulation/radiation effects ; Color ; Feathers/physiology ; Kinetics ; Radiation Effects ; Weather ; }, }
@article {pmid4145437, year = {1973}, author = {Marder, J}, title = {Body temperature regulation in the brown-necked raven (Corvus corax ruficollis). I. Metabolic rate, evaporative water loss and body temperature of the raven exposed to heat stress.}, journal = {Comparative biochemistry and physiology. A, Comparative physiology}, volume = {45}, number = {2}, pages = {421-430}, doi = {10.1016/0300-9629(73)90449-0}, pmid = {4145437}, issn = {0300-9629}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/metabolism/*physiology ; *Body Temperature Regulation ; Carbon Dioxide/biosynthesis ; *Oxygen Consumption ; Physiology/instrumentation ; Respiration ; Stress, Physiological ; Temperature ; Water Loss, Insensible ; }, }
@article {pmid4784918, year = {1973}, author = {Kertesz, A}, title = {Intelligence and aphasia. Performance of aphasies on Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Transactions of the American Neurological Association}, volume = {98}, number = {}, pages = {126-128}, pmid = {4784918}, issn = {0065-9479}, mesh = {Adult ; *Aphasia/complications ; Brain Damage, Chronic ; Evaluation Studies as Topic ; Humans ; *Intelligence ; Intelligence Tests ; Language ; Mental Disorders/etiology ; }, }
@article {pmid4711451, year = {1973}, author = {Pollet, J}, title = {[Crow's feet].}, journal = {Annales de chirurgie plastique}, volume = {18}, number = {2}, pages = {191-194}, pmid = {4711451}, issn = {0003-3960}, mesh = {Dermatologic Surgical Procedures ; Face/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Surgery, Plastic ; }, }
@article {pmid4199686, year = {1973}, author = {Magon, VK}, title = {A histochemical study of few enzymes in the neoplastic liver of Corvus spledens (Vieillot).}, journal = {Acta histochemica}, volume = {45}, number = {2}, pages = {207-213}, pmid = {4199686}, issn = {0065-1281}, mesh = {Acid Phosphatase/analysis ; Alkaline Phosphatase/analysis ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*enzymology ; Esterases/analysis ; Lipase/analysis ; Liver Neoplasms/enzymology/*veterinary ; Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin/enzymology/*veterinary ; Nucleotidases/analysis ; }, }
@article {pmid4129674, year = {1973}, author = {Kirshner, LA}, title = {Joel Kovel and Robert Jay Lifton: two psychohistorical modes.}, journal = {Psychoanalytic review}, volume = {60}, number = {4}, pages = {613-619}, pmid = {4129674}, issn = {0033-2836}, mesh = {Anthropology ; Child ; Child Development ; Culture ; Existentialism ; *History ; History, 20th Century ; Humans ; Psychoanalysis/history ; *Psychoanalytic Theory ; *Symbolism ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid4663606, year = {1972}, author = {Tangri, AN and Sen, AB}, title = {Leucocytes in Chandlerella hawkingi infection in Indian jungle crows Corvus macrorhynchos Wagler.}, journal = {The Indian journal of medical research}, volume = {60}, number = {12}, pages = {1744-1749}, pmid = {4663606}, issn = {0971-5916}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*blood/immunology ; Birds ; Filariasis/blood/immunology/*veterinary ; Immunity, Active ; Leukocyte Count ; *Leukocytes ; }, }
@article {pmid4644640, year = {1972}, author = {van Dongen, HR and Luteijn, F and van Harskamp, F}, title = {[The comparability of a W.A.I.S., an abbreviated G.I.T. and a Raven I.Q. test in a group of neurological patients].}, journal = {Nederlands tijdschrift voor de psychologie en haar grensgebieden}, volume = {27}, number = {10}, pages = {631-641}, pmid = {4644640}, issn = {0028-2235}, mesh = {Adult ; Central Nervous System Diseases/*diagnosis ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Nervous System Diseases/*diagnosis ; Probability ; Psychometrics ; }, }
@article {pmid4563889, year = {1972}, author = {}, title = {Peter Gerald Jay.}, journal = {The Medical journal of Australia}, volume = {2}, number = {8}, pages = {448-450}, doi = {10.5694/j.1326-5377.1972.tb47396.x}, pmid = {4563889}, issn = {0025-729X}, mesh = {Australia ; History, 20th Century ; Otolaryngology/history ; }, }
@article {pmid5021253, year = {1972}, author = {Owen, WH and Idler, DR}, title = {Identification and metabolic clearance of cortisol and cortisone in amarine teleost, the sea raven Hemitripterus americanus Gmelin (family Scorpaenidae).}, journal = {The Journal of endocrinology}, volume = {53}, number = {1}, pages = {101-112}, doi = {10.1677/joe.0.0530101}, pmid = {5021253}, issn = {0022-0795}, mesh = {Anhydrides ; Animals ; Carbon Isotopes ; Chromatography, Paper ; Chromatography, Thin Layer ; Cortisone/blood/*metabolism ; Fishes/*metabolism ; Hydrocortisone/blood/*metabolism ; Injections ; Metabolic Clearance Rate ; Tritium ; }, }
@article {pmid4552036, year = {1972}, author = {Alpen, EL}, title = {Leonard Jay Cole (1916-1971).}, journal = {Radiation research}, volume = {49}, number = {3}, pages = {657-658}, pmid = {4552036}, issn = {0033-7587}, mesh = {Allergy and Immunology ; History, 20th Century ; Radiobiology ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid5059326, year = {1972}, author = {Regnault, P}, title = {Complete face and forehead lifting, with double traction on "crow's-feet".}, journal = {Plastic and reconstructive surgery}, volume = {49}, number = {2}, pages = {123-129}, doi = {10.1097/00006534-197202000-00002}, pmid = {5059326}, issn = {0032-1052}, mesh = {Aged ; Dermabrasion ; Eyelids/surgery ; Face/*surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Methods ; Middle Aged ; Rhinoplasty ; Scalp/surgery ; *Surgery, Plastic ; }, }
@article {pmid5026942, year = {1972}, author = {Rauchfleisch, U and Rauchfleisch-Malisius, R}, title = {[Relation between Raven's progressive matrices test and the Hamburg Wechsler intelligence test for adults. Significance of these tests for children and juveniles with behavior disorders].}, journal = {Praxis der Kinderpsychologie und Kinderpsychiatrie}, volume = {21}, number = {2}, pages = {54-58}, pmid = {5026942}, issn = {0032-7034}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Brain Damage, Chronic/diagnosis ; Electroencephalography ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Social Behavior Disorders ; }, }
@article {pmid5015756, year = {1972}, author = {Unsicker, K}, title = {[Synapses on interrenal cells in crows].}, journal = {Die Naturwissenschaften}, volume = {59}, number = {2}, pages = {81}, pmid = {5015756}, issn = {0028-1042}, mesh = {Adrenal Glands/*innervation ; Animals ; Axons/cytology ; Birds ; Species Specificity ; Synapses/*cytology ; Synaptic Membranes ; }, }
@article {pmid5075378, year = {1972}, author = {Edkins, E and Hansen, IA}, title = {Wax esters secreted by the uropygial glands of some Australian waterfowl, including the magpie goose.}, journal = {Comparative biochemistry and physiology. B, Comparative biochemistry}, volume = {41}, number = {1}, pages = {105-112}, doi = {10.1016/0305-0491(72)90012-0}, pmid = {5075378}, issn = {0305-0491}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*metabolism ; Caproates/metabolism ; Chemical Phenomena ; Chemistry ; Chromatography, Gas ; Chromatography, Thin Layer ; Ducks/*metabolism ; Esters/analysis/metabolism ; Fatty Acids/analysis/metabolism ; Fatty Alcohols/analysis/metabolism ; Geese/classification/*metabolism ; Lipids/analysis ; Methylation ; Physiology, Comparative ; Poultry/classification ; Sebaceous Glands/*metabolism ; Species Specificity ; Squalene/analysis/metabolism ; Waxes/*analysis/*metabolism ; }, }
@article {pmid5081452, year = {1972}, author = {Quentin, JC and Seureau, C and Gabrion, C}, title = {[The life-cycle of Acuaria anthuris (Rudolphi, 1819), a parasitic nematode of the magpie].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Parasitenkunde (Berlin, Germany)}, volume = {39}, number = {2}, pages = {103-126}, pmid = {5081452}, issn = {0044-3255}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Ecology ; Grasshoppers ; Metamorphosis, Biological ; Nematoda/classification/*growth &amp; development ; }, }
@article {pmid5160045, year = {1971}, author = {Beyel, V and Fracchia, J and Sheppard, C and Merlis, S}, title = {Relationships among Raven progressive matrices avoidable and atypical errors and Bender Gestalt errors.}, journal = {Perceptual and motor skills}, volume = {33}, number = {3}, pages = {1269-1270}, doi = {10.2466/pms.1971.33.3f.1269}, pmid = {5160045}, issn = {0031-5125}, mesh = {*Bender-Gestalt Test ; Humans ; Male ; *Psychological Tests ; *Schizophrenic Psychology ; Thinking ; }, }
@article {pmid5134897, year = {1971}, author = {Daniell, HW}, title = {Smoker's wrinkles. A study in the epidemiology of "crow's feet".}, journal = {Annals of internal medicine}, volume = {75}, number = {6}, pages = {873-880}, doi = {10.7326/0003-4819-75-6-873}, pmid = {5134897}, issn = {0003-4819}, mesh = {*Aging ; Body Weight ; Environmental Exposure ; *Face ; Methods ; *Skin Manifestations ; *Smoking ; Sunlight ; Time Factors ; *Weather ; }, }
@article {pmid5132399, year = {1971}, author = {Raven, C}, title = {Testimony in favor of abortion reform hearings before the Michigan State House Committee on Social Services.}, journal = {The Woman physician}, volume = {26}, number = {11}, pages = {584-586}, pmid = {5132399}, issn = {0002-7103}, mesh = {*Abortion, Legal ; Adolescent ; *Expert Testimony ; Female ; Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; *Legislation, Medical ; Michigan ; Pregnancy ; }, }
@article {pmid5000921, year = {1971}, author = {Khan, RA and Fallis, AM}, title = {Speciation, transmission, and schizogony of leucocytozoon in corvid birds.}, journal = {Canadian journal of zoology}, volume = {49}, number = {10}, pages = {1363-1367}, doi = {10.1139/z71-204}, pmid = {5000921}, issn = {0008-4301}, mesh = {Animals ; Apicomplexa/*classification ; Bird Diseases/epidemiology/microbiology/*pathology ; Birds ; Carrier State/veterinary ; Liver/microbiology/pathology ; Ontario ; Protozoan Infections/epidemiology/pathology ; *Protozoan Infections, Animal ; Reproduction ; Species Specificity ; }, }
@article {pmid5156481, year = {1971}, author = {Helmboldt, CF and Eckerlin, RP and Penner, LR and Wyand, DS}, title = {The pathology of capillariasis in the blue jay.}, journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases}, volume = {7}, number = {3}, pages = {157-161}, doi = {10.7589/0090-3558-7.3.157}, pmid = {5156481}, issn = {0090-3558}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*pathology ; Birds ; Esophagus/pathology ; Tongue/pathology ; Trichuriasis/pathology/*veterinary ; }, }
@article {pmid5560090, year = {1971}, author = {van Harskamp, F and van Dongen, HR}, title = {[Comparability of a short-form G. I. T. -and a Raven IQ test in a neurologic patient material].}, journal = {Nederlands tijdschrift voor de psychologie en haar grensgebieden}, volume = {26}, number = {5}, pages = {291-297}, pmid = {5560090}, issn = {0028-2235}, mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Nervous System Diseases ; }, }
@article {pmid4929786, year = {1971}, author = {}, title = {Citation for the William John Gies Award to Philip Jay.}, journal = {The Journal of the American College of Dentists}, volume = {38}, number = {2}, pages = {121-122}, pmid = {4929786}, issn = {0002-7979}, mesh = {*Awards and Prizes ; *Dentists ; History, 20th Century ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid5101967, year = {1971}, author = {Ouellet, H}, title = {[Pterylography of the gray jay Perisoreus canadensis (Linnaeus), (Aves: Corvidae)].}, journal = {Canadian journal of zoology}, volume = {49}, number = {2}, pages = {147-158}, doi = {10.1139/z71-024}, pmid = {5101967}, issn = {0008-4301}, mesh = {Adaptation, Physiological ; Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Cold Temperature ; Feathers/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Skin/anatomy &amp; histology ; Species Specificity ; Temperature ; Wings, Animal/anatomy &amp; histology ; }, }
@article {pmid4395539, year = {1970}, author = {Jacob, J and Glaser, A}, title = {[The uropygial gland secretion of the rook (Corvus frugilegus)].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Naturforschung. Teil B, Chemie, Biochemie, Biophysik, Biologie und verwandte Gebiete}, volume = {25}, number = {12}, pages = {1435-1437}, pmid = {4395539}, issn = {0044-3174}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Chemical Phenomena ; Chemistry ; Esters/analysis ; Fatty Acids/analysis ; Methylation ; Sebaceous Glands/metabolism ; Sebum/*analysis ; Tail ; }, }
@article {pmid5508296, year = {1970}, author = {Franchebois, P and Poisson, R}, title = {[Pharyngo-esophageal reconstruction using Raven's technic].}, journal = {L'union medicale du Canada}, volume = {99}, number = {10}, pages = {1837-1843}, pmid = {5508296}, issn = {0041-6959}, mesh = {Esophageal Neoplasms/*surgery ; Humans ; Methods ; Pharyngeal Neoplasms/*surgery ; }, }
@article {pmid5498032, year = {1970}, author = {Swenson, LC}, title = {One versus two discrimination by whitenecked ravens (Corvus cryptoleucus) with non-number dimensions varied.}, journal = {Animal behaviour}, volume = {18}, number = {3}, pages = {454-460}, doi = {10.1016/0003-3472(70)90039-4}, pmid = {5498032}, issn = {0003-3472}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; *Cues ; *Discrimination Learning ; }, }
@article {pmid5527852, year = {1970}, author = {Arena, JM}, title = {Testimony of Jay M. Arena, M.D. before the Senate Commerce Committee S. 2162--the Poison Prevention Packaging Act of 1969.}, journal = {Clinical toxicology}, volume = {3}, number = {2}, pages = {289-290}, doi = {10.3109/15563657008990479}, pmid = {5527852}, issn = {0009-9309}, mesh = {*Drug Packaging ; Humans ; *Legislation, Pharmacy ; Poisoning/*prevention &amp; control ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid4397257, year = {1970}, author = {Ray, B}, title = {Action of autonomic effector agents on the catecholamine secretion of the suprarenal medulla of the crow and the fowl.}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Biologie}, volume = {116}, number = {5}, pages = {327-331}, pmid = {4397257}, mesh = {Adrenal Medulla/*drug effects/metabolism ; Animals ; Birds ; Epinephrine/metabolism ; Ganglionic Blockers/*pharmacology ; Norepinephrine/metabolism ; Species Specificity ; Sympatholytics/*pharmacology ; Sympathomimetics/*pharmacology ; }, }
@article {pmid4192893, year = {1970}, author = {}, title = {The Jackdaw series on the History of Medicine and Science.}, journal = {Bulletin of the New York Academy of Medicine}, volume = {46}, number = {5}, pages = {386-387}, pmid = {4192893}, issn = {0028-7091}, mesh = {*Audiovisual Aids ; *History of Medicine ; Publishing ; *Science ; Teaching ; }, }
@article {pmid4395026, year = {1970}, author = {Fracchia, J and Fiorentino, D and Sheppard, C and Merlis, S}, title = {Raven Progressive Matrices avoidable errors as a measure of psychopathological ideational influences upon reasoning ability.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {26}, number = {2}, pages = {359-362}, doi = {10.2466/pr0.1970.26.2.359}, pmid = {4395026}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {*Antisocial Personality Disorder ; Heroin ; Humans ; *Logic ; MMPI ; Psychological Tests ; *Psychotic Disorders ; *Substance-Related Disorders ; }, }
@article {pmid5433957, year = {1970}, author = {Malinovský, L and Zemánek, R}, title = {Sensory nerve endings in the joint capsules of the large limb joints in the domestic hen (Gallus domesticus) and the rook (Corvus frugilegus).}, journal = {Folia morphologica}, volume = {18}, number = {3}, pages = {206-212}, pmid = {5433957}, issn = {0015-5640}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; *Chickens ; Hindlimb/innervation ; Joints/*innervation ; Microscopy, Electron ; Nerve Endings/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Sensory Receptor Cells/anatomy &amp; histology ; Wings, Animal/innervation ; }, }
@article {pmid4904181, year = {1969}, author = {Pelner, L}, title = {Jay Frank Schamberg, M.D. (1870-1934). Medical scholar and founder of the independent American Pharmaceutical industry.}, journal = {Medical times}, volume = {97}, number = {12}, pages = {95-100}, pmid = {4904181}, issn = {0025-7583}, mesh = {Drug Industry/*history ; History of Medicine ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid5402215, year = {1969}, author = {Marinig, L}, title = {[Eysenck's Maudsley Personality Inventory (MPI), Cattell's 16 P.F. (Form C) and the Raven progressive matrices in a group of normal subjects].}, journal = {Il Friuli medico}, volume = {24}, number = {5}, pages = {495-502}, pmid = {5402215}, issn = {0016-1535}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; *Extraversion, Psychological ; Female ; Humans ; Neurotic Disorders/*diagnosis ; *Personality Inventory ; }, }
@article {pmid5777298, year = {1969}, author = {Goetzinger, MR and Houchins, RR}, title = {The 1947 colored Raven's progressive matrices with deaf and hearing subjects.}, journal = {American annals of the deaf}, volume = {114}, number = {2}, pages = {95-101}, pmid = {5777298}, issn = {0002-726X}, mesh = {Child ; *Deafness ; Female ; *Hearing Disorders ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; }, }
@article {pmid5789415, year = {1969}, author = {Eisenthal, S and Harford, T}, title = {Variation in the form and administration of Raven's Progressive Matrices Scale in a neuropsychiatric population.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {24}, number = {1}, pages = {262}, doi = {10.2466/pr0.1969.24.1.262}, pmid = {5789415}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {Analysis of Variance ; Humans ; Mental Disorders/*diagnosis ; *Personality Inventory ; }, }
@article {pmid5774047, year = {1969}, author = {Chatterjee, RJ and Sen, AB}, title = {Chemotherapeutic reactions of Chandlerella hawkingi, the filarial parasite of the Indian jungle crow, Corvus macrorhynchos (Agler).}, journal = {British journal of pharmacology}, volume = {35}, number = {2}, pages = {339-343}, pmid = {5774047}, issn = {0007-1188}, mesh = {Animals ; Anthelmintics/pharmacology ; Arsenicals/pharmacology ; Bird Diseases/drug therapy ; Filariasis/*drug therapy ; Filarioidea/*drug effects ; Tartrates/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {1. A high percentage of Indian jungle crows (Corvus macrorhynchos Wagler), found in and around Lucknow, harbour a natural filarial infection Chandlerella hawkingi. The microfilariae of this species are sheathed and show nocturnal periodicity.2. Fourteen compounds active against other kinds of filariae, especially against Litomosoides carinii, were tested against Ch. hawkingi in jungle crows to find whether this infection would be suitable for routine filarial chemotherapy. This is apparently the first report of systematic screening of antifilarial compounds against an avian filariasis.3. Tartar emetic (10 mg/kg intravenously, daily for 6 days) and arsenamide (5 mg/kg intraperitoneally, daily for 6 days) proved to be effective in killing adult worms. Trivalent tryparsamide, though effective, was toxic in the doses tried. Diethylcarbamazine and other compounds tested were ineffective.4. The chemotherapeutic susceptibilities of Ch. hawkingi differ considerably from those of L. carinii and Wuchereria bancrofti.}, }
@article {pmid5820701, year = {1969}, author = {Jovanović, V and Atkins, L}, title = {Karyotypes of four passerine birds belonging to the families Turdidae, Mimidae, and Corvidae.}, journal = {Chromosoma}, volume = {26}, number = {4}, pages = {388-394}, pmid = {5820701}, issn = {0009-5915}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Chromosomes ; Female ; Karyotyping ; Male ; Sex Chromosomes ; }, }
@article {pmid5406341, year = {1969}, author = {Santorelli, G and Bertolino, A}, title = {[A peculiar error of schizophrenics in the Progressive Matrices of Raven].}, journal = {L'Ospedale psichiatrico}, volume = {37}, number = {1}, pages = {223-232}, pmid = {5406341}, issn = {0048-2285}, mesh = {*Aptitude Tests ; Humans ; Schizophrenia/*diagnosis ; }, }
@article {pmid5390612, year = {1969}, author = {Traciuc, E}, title = {[Structure of the epididymis of Coloeus monedula (Aves, Corvidae)].}, journal = {Anatomischer Anzeiger}, volume = {125}, number = {1}, pages = {49-67}, pmid = {5390612}, issn = {0003-2786}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Epididymis/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Male ; }, }
@article {pmid4883963, year = {1969}, author = {Gifford, ES}, title = {Memoir of Jay Besson Rudolphy, 1887-1968.}, journal = {Transactions &amp; studies of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia}, volume = {36}, number = {3}, pages = {182}, pmid = {4883963}, issn = {0010-1087}, mesh = {History of Medicine ; Pennsylvania ; }, }
@article {pmid4388581, year = {1969}, author = {Sheppard, C and Fiorentino, D and Collins, L and Merlis, S}, title = {Further study of performance errors on Ravens progressive matrics (1938).}, journal = {The Journal of psychology}, volume = {71}, number = {1}, pages = {127-132}, doi = {10.1080/00223980.1969.10543078}, pmid = {4388581}, issn = {0022-3980}, mesh = {Adult ; Antisocial Personality Disorder ; Heroin ; Humans ; MMPI ; Paranoid Disorders ; *Psychological Tests ; Psychometrics ; *Psychotic Disorders ; Schizophrenic Psychology ; *Substance-Related Disorders ; }, }
@article {pmid4388378, year = {1968}, author = {Sheppard, C and Fiorentino, D and Collins, L and Merlis, S}, title = {Performance errors on Ravens progressive matrices (1938) by sociopathic and schizotypic personality types.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {23}, number = {3}, pages = {1043-1046}, doi = {10.2466/pr0.1968.23.3f.1043}, pmid = {4388378}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {Adult ; *Antisocial Personality Disorder ; Humans ; MMPI ; *Personality Disorders ; Problem Solving ; Schizophrenic Psychology ; Substance-Related Disorders ; *Thinking ; }, }
@article {pmid5698780, year = {1968}, author = {Sheppard, C and Fiorentino, D and Collins, L and Merlis, S}, title = {Ravens Progressive Matrices (1938): normative data on male narcotic addicts.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {23}, number = {2}, pages = {343-348}, doi = {10.2466/pr0.1968.23.2.343}, pmid = {5698780}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Socioeconomic Factors ; *Substance-Related Disorders ; }, }
@article {pmid5666140, year = {1968}, author = {Tulkin, SR and Newbrough, JR}, title = {Social class, race, and sex differences on the Raven (1956) Standard Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Journal of consulting and clinical psychology}, volume = {32}, number = {4}, pages = {400-406}, doi = {10.1037/h0026099}, pmid = {5666140}, issn = {0022-006X}, mesh = {Black or African American ; Analysis of Variance ; Child ; *Ethnicity ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Sex Factors ; *Social Class ; }, }
@article {pmid4871335, year = {1968}, author = {Soffer, A}, title = {The Jay Arthur Myers dedication issue.}, journal = {Diseases of the chest}, volume = {53}, number = {6}, pages = {665-669}, doi = {10.1378/chest.53.6.665}, pmid = {4871335}, issn = {0096-0217}, mesh = {History of Medicine ; Ohio ; Tuberculosis ; }, }
@article {pmid4929667, year = {1968}, author = {Seigneurin, R and Seigneurin, JM}, title = {[The crow of the Alps is infected by Rickettsia burnetti].}, journal = {Bulletin de l'Academie nationale de medecine}, volume = {152}, number = {1}, pages = {5-7}, pmid = {4929667}, issn = {0001-4079}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology ; France ; Rickettsia/immunology ; Rickettsia Infections/*epidemiology ; Zoonoses ; }, }
@article {pmid5709345, year = {1968}, author = {Oehme, H}, title = {[The ciliary ganglion of the crows (Corvidae)].}, journal = {Anatomischer Anzeiger}, volume = {123}, number = {3}, pages = {261-277}, pmid = {5709345}, issn = {0003-2786}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds/*anatomy &amp; histology ; Eye/*innervation ; Ganglia, Autonomic/*anatomy &amp; histology ; }, }
@article {pmid5666263, year = {1968}, author = {Birová-Volosinovicová, }, title = {[Finding of Thominx frugilegi (Czaplinski, 1962) in ravens of Slovakia].}, journal = {Biologia}, volume = {23}, number = {2}, pages = {154-155}, pmid = {5666263}, issn = {0006-3088}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Czechoslovakia ; *Helminths ; }, }
@article {pmid6079224, year = {1967}, author = {Jurjevich, RM}, title = {Avoidable errors on Raven progressive matrices and psychopathological indices.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {21}, number = {2}, pages = {364}, doi = {10.2466/pr0.1967.21.2.364}, pmid = {6079224}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Personality Inventory ; Psychometrics ; }, }
@article {pmid5340620, year = {1967}, author = {}, title = {Jay McLean (1890-1957), discoverer of heparin.}, journal = {JAMA}, volume = {201}, number = {10}, pages = {770}, pmid = {5340620}, issn = {0098-7484}, mesh = {Brain Chemistry ; History, 20th Century ; United States ; }, }
@article {pmid6069228, year = {1967}, author = {Watson, WA and Hunter, D and Bellhouse, R}, title = {Studies on vibrionic infection of sheep and carrion crows.}, journal = {The Veterinary record}, volume = {81}, number = {10}, pages = {220-225}, doi = {10.1136/vr.81.10.220}, pmid = {6069228}, issn = {0042-4900}, mesh = {Abortion, Veterinary/*etiology ; Animals ; Birds ; Disease Reservoirs ; Female ; Pregnancy ; Sheep ; Sheep Diseases/*microbiology ; Vibrio/isolation &amp; purification ; Vibrio Infections/*complications/immunology/microbiology/*veterinary ; }, }
@article {pmid6057161, year = {1967}, author = {Klingelhofer, EL}, title = {Performance of Tanzanian secondary school pupils on the Raven standard progressive matrices test.}, journal = {The Journal of social psychology}, volume = {72}, number = {2}, pages = {205-215}, doi = {10.1080/00224545.1967.9922316}, pmid = {6057161}, issn = {0022-4545}, mesh = {Adolescent ; *Culture ; *Ethnicity ; *Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Humans ; *Psychological Tests ; Tanzania ; }, }
@article {pmid5613728, year = {1967}, author = {Roch, E and Varela, G}, title = {[Dye test (Sabine and Feldman) for the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in magpies (Quiscalus macrotus)].}, journal = {Revista de investigacion en salud publica}, volume = {27}, number = {3}, pages = {215-216}, pmid = {5613728}, issn = {0034-8384}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/*diagnosis ; *Coloring Agents ; Toxoplasmosis, Animal/*diagnosis ; }, }
@article {pmid6082514, year = {1967}, author = {Jurjevich, RM}, title = {Intellectual assessment with Gorham's Proverbs Test, Raven's Progressive Matrices, and WAIS.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {20}, number = {3}, pages = {Suppl:1185-6}, doi = {10.2466/pr0.1967.20.3c.1285}, pmid = {6082514}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; }, }
@article {pmid6051666, year = {1967}, author = {Dabrowski, Z}, title = {The absorption spectrum in ultra-violet light of the hemoglobin of birds of the crow family.}, journal = {Comparative biochemistry and physiology}, volume = {21}, number = {3}, pages = {703-707}, doi = {10.1016/0010-406x(67)90464-1}, pmid = {6051666}, issn = {0010-406X}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; Hemoglobins/*analysis ; Spectrum Analysis ; Ultraviolet Rays ; }, }
@article {pmid6042493, year = {1967}, author = {Sydiaha, D}, title = {Prediction of WAIS IQ for psychiatric patients using the Ammons' FRPV and Raven's Progressive Matrices.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {20}, number = {3}, pages = {823-826}, doi = {10.2466/pr0.1967.20.3.823}, pmid = {6042493}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; *Mental Disorders ; *Psychological Tests ; }, }
@article {pmid6067109, year = {1967}, author = {Todd, KS and Worley, DE}, title = {Helminth parasites of the black-billed magpie, Pica pica hudsonia (Sabine, 1823), from Southwestern Montana.}, journal = {The Journal of parasitology}, volume = {53}, number = {2}, pages = {364-367}, pmid = {6067109}, issn = {0022-3395}, mesh = {Aging ; Animals ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology ; Cestoda/isolation &amp; purification ; Echinostoma/isolation &amp; purification ; *Helminthiasis, Animal ; Montana ; Nematoda/isolation &amp; purification ; Seasons ; }, }
@article {pmid6067107, year = {1967}, author = {Todd, KS}, title = {Aploparaksis picae sp. n. (Cestoda, Hymenolepididae) from the black-billed magpie, Pica pica hudsonia (Sabine, 1823).}, journal = {The Journal of parasitology}, volume = {53}, number = {2}, pages = {350-351}, pmid = {6067107}, issn = {0022-3395}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bird Diseases ; Cestoda/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification ; Montana ; Parasitic Diseases, Animal ; }, }
@article {pmid6067583, year = {1967}, author = {Dennis, SM}, title = {The possible role of the raven in the transmission of ovine vibriosis.}, journal = {Australian veterinary journal}, volume = {43}, number = {2}, pages = {45-48}, doi = {10.1111/j.1751-0813.1967.tb15061.x}, pmid = {6067583}, issn = {0005-0423}, mesh = {Abortion, Veterinary/*epidemiology ; Animals ; Animals, Newborn ; Australia ; *Birds ; *Disease Reservoirs ; Female ; Pregnancy ; Sheep ; Sheep Diseases/*epidemiology ; *Vibrio ; }, }
@article {pmid6070414, year = {1967}, author = {Birová-Volosinovicová, }, title = {[A new species of plathelminth Dilepsis? spasskayae sp.n. (Dilepididae) from the jay (Garrulus glandarius L.)].}, journal = {Biologia}, volume = {22}, number = {11}, pages = {823-830}, pmid = {6070414}, issn = {0006-3088}, mesh = {Animals ; Bird Diseases/microbiology ; Cestoda/anatomy &amp; histology/*classification ; Cestode Infections/microbiology ; Czechoslovakia ; }, }
@article {pmid5981073, year = {1966}, author = {Kilburn, KL and Sanderson, RE and Melton, K}, title = {Relation of the Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices to two measures of verbal ability in a sample of mildly retarded hospital patients.}, journal = {Psychological reports}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {731-734}, doi = {10.2466/pr0.1966.19.3.731}, pmid = {5981073}, issn = {0033-2941}, mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Female ; Humans ; *Intellectual Disability ; *Intelligence Tests ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Psychometrics ; }, }
@article {pmid5937238, year = {1966}, author = {Jay, JM}, title = {Production of lysozyme by staphylococci and its correlation with three other extracellular substances.}, journal = {Journal of bacteriology}, volume = {91}, number = {5}, pages = {1804-1810}, pmid = {5937238}, issn = {0021-9193}, mesh = {Coagulase ; Hemolysin Proteins/biosynthesis ; In Vitro Techniques ; Muramidase/*biosynthesis ; Staphylococcus/*metabolism ; }, abstract = {Jay, James M. (Wayne State University, Detroit, Mich.). Production of lysozyme by staphylococci and its correlation with three other extracellular substances. J. Bacteriol. 91:1804-1810. 1966.-Lysozyme production was determined on plates containing 1 mg/ml of Lysozyme Substrate in Heart Infusion Agar with incubation at 37 C for 48 hr. Its production was compared with that of alpha-hemolysin and sheep hemolysin and egg-yolk precipitation, by use of both coagulase-positive and coagulase-negative strains of staphylococci. Of 126 coagulase-positive strains tested, 120 or 95.2% produced lysozyme, 117 or 92.9% produced alpha-hemolysin, 108 or 85.7% precipitated egg yolk, and 102 or 81% produced sheep hemolysin. Of the 49 coagulase-negative strains (which included 22 pathogens), only 4 or 8.1% produced lysozyme, 14 or 28.6% produced alpha-hemolysin, 13 or 26.5% produced sheep hemolysins, and 5 or 10.2% precipitated egg yolk. Only two of the six coagulase-positive strains which failed to produce lysozyme showed any consistent patterns in relation to the four characteristics determined. The four coagulase-negative strains which produced lysozyme were inconsistent for the other characteristics measured. It is suggested that lysozyme production is more a property of coagulase-positive staphylococci, and therefore a better ancillary test of pathogenicity, than either production of alpha-hemolysin or egg-yolk precipitation, because the incidence of lysozyme producers is higher among this group than among those producing the other substances and because fewer coagulase-negative staphylococci produced lysozyme than hemolysins or egg-yolk precipitation. Of 16 other species of bacteria and yeasts tested, all were found negative except Bacillus subtilis. Lysozyme production by staphylococci in heavily contaminated foods was not inhibited on plates containing sodium azide, whereas media containing 7.5% salt and sorbic acid were unsuitable. The possible relationship of lysozyme production to staphylococcal pathogenicity is discussed.}, }
@article {pmid5995353, year = {1966}, author = {Gwinner, E}, title = {[On several kinetic plays of the common raven (Corvus corax L.)].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Tierpsychologie}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {28-36}, pmid = {5995353}, issn = {0044-3573}, mesh = {Animals ; *Behavior, Animal ; *Birds ; Motor Activity ; *Play and Playthings ; }, }
@article {pmid5938498, year = {1966}, author = {Bingham, WC and Burke, HR and Murray, S}, title = {Raven's progressive matrices: construct validity.}, journal = {The Journal of psychology}, volume = {62}, number = {2}, pages = {205-209}, doi = {10.1080/00223980.1966.10543785}, pmid = {5938498}, issn = {0022-3980}, mesh = {Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Perception ; Psychometrics ; }, }
@article {pmid4956338, year = {1966}, author = {Lundgren, DL and Thorpe, BD and Haskell, CD}, title = {Infectious diseases in wild animals in Utah. VI. Experimental infection of birds with Rickettsia rickettsii.}, journal = {Journal of bacteriology}, volume = {91}, number = {3}, pages = {963-966}, pmid = {4956338}, issn = {0021-9193}, mesh = {Animals ; Antibodies ; Antibody Formation ; *Bird Diseases ; Blood ; Complement Fixation Tests ; Guinea Pigs ; In Vitro Techniques ; Poultry ; *Rickettsia rickettsii ; *Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever ; Species Specificity ; Utah ; }, abstract = {Lundgren, D. L. (University of Utah, Salt Lake City), B. D. Thorpe, and C. D. Haskell. Infectious diseases in wild animals in Utah. VI. Experimental infection of birds with Rickettsia rickettsii. J. Bacteriol. 91:963-966. 1966.-Chickens, pigeons, pheasants, sparrow hawks, red-tailed hawks, ravens, magpies, and a marsh hawk were inoculated with Rickettsia rickettsii, the etiological agent of Rocky Mountain spotted fever. The development and persistence of complement-fixing (CF) antibodies and rickettsemias were tested for in these birds. Rickettsiae were recovered from the blood of a number of birds up to the 16th day after inoculation, whereas only the pigeon was found to develop high CF antibody titers. It was concluded that certain species of birds have the potential of contributing to the dissemination of R. rickettsii in nature, and that the CF test is generally unsuitable for serological diagnosis of this organism in birds.}, }
@article {pmid4957992, year = {1966}, author = {Clark, GW}, title = {Incidence and seasonal variations in blood and tissue parasites of yellow-billed magpies.}, journal = {The Journal of protozoology}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {108-110}, doi = {10.1111/j.1550-7408.1966.tb01878.x}, pmid = {4957992}, issn = {0022-3921}, mesh = {Animals ; Apicomplexa ; Bird Diseases/*epidemiology ; Filariasis ; Malaria ; Protozoan Infections/*epidemiology ; Seasons ; }, }
@article {pmid4380402, year = {1966}, author = {Wenke, W and Müller, U}, title = {[Possibilities and limitations in the use of various short diagnostic procedures in the selection of students, demonstrated by the example of the Raven progressive matrices].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Psychologie mit Zeitschrift fur angewandte Psychologie}, volume = {172}, number = {1}, pages = {82-116}, pmid = {4380402}, issn = {0044-3409}, mesh = {Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; *Psychological Tests ; *Students ; }, }
@article {pmid4227999, year = {1966}, author = {Collin, JP}, title = {[On the development of the rudimentary epiphyseal photoreceptors in the magpie (Pica pica L)].}, journal = {Comptes rendus des seances de la Societe de biologie et de ses filiales}, volume = {160}, number = {10}, pages = {1876-1880}, pmid = {4227999}, issn = {0037-9026}, mesh = {Animals ; Birds ; Epiphyses/*innervation ; *Light ; Microscopy, Electron ; Sensory Receptor Cells/*cytology ; }, }
@article {pmid5862611, year = {1965}, author = {Chatterjee, RK and Sen, AB and Bhattacharya, BK}, title = {Chandlerella hawkingi sp. nov., a filarial parasite of the Indian jungle crow, Corvus macrorhynchos Wagler.}, journal = {Annals of tropical medicine and parasitology}, volume = {59}, number = {4}, pages = {434-440}, doi = {10.1080/00034983.1965.11686329}, pmid = {5862611}, issn = {0003-4983}, mesh = {Animals ; *Bird Diseases ; *Filariasis ; Filarioidea/classification ; In Vitro Techniques ; }, }
@article {pmid5844422, year = {1965}, author = {Hildes, JA and Parker, WL and Delaat, A and Stackiw, W and Wilt, JC}, title = {The elusive source of psittacosis in the Arctic.}, journal = {Canadian Medical Association journal}, volume = {93}, number = {22}, pages = {1154-1155}, pmid = {5844422}, issn = {0008-4409}, mesh = {Animals ; *Antibody Formation ; Arctic Regions ; *Birds ; *Cold Climate ; In Vitro Techniques ; Psittacosis/*immunology ; }, abstract = {Eskimos and Arctic Indians have a high incidence of psittacosis antibodies. The following Arctic birds were therefore examined in an endeavour to find the reservoir of infection: snow geese in their Arctic nesting grounds; migrating geese in the spring and in the fall; ptarmigan, raven, and snow bunting on the Arctic Circle in the late winter. Psittacosis virus was not recovered from any of the birds examined, but a percentage of migrating geese had psittacosis antibodies. The source of human and avian antibodies in the Arctic remains elusive.}, }
@article {pmid5888489, year = {1965}, author = {Reinert, J}, title = {[Discrimination of muscle time and rhythm in jackdaws].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Tierpsychologie}, volume = {22}, number = {6}, pages = {623-671}, pmid = {5888489}, issn = {0044-3573}, mesh = {Animals ; *Birds ; *Pitch Discrimination ; *Time ; }, }
@article {pmid5894207, year = {1965}, author = {Meinershagen, WA and Waldhalm, DG and Frank, FW and Scrivner, LH}, title = {Magpies as a reservoir of infection for ovine vibriosis.}, journal = {Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association}, volume = {147}, number = {8}, pages = {843-845}, pmid = {5894207}, issn = {0003-1488}, mesh = {*Abortion, Veterinary ; Animals ; *Birds ; Female ; Pregnancy ; Sheep ; *Sheep Diseases ; *Vibrio ; }, }
@article {pmid5871065, year = {1965}, author = {Vitetta, M}, title = {[Raven's progressive matrix reaction applied to Sicilian children].}, journal = {Biologica Latina}, volume = {18}, number = {4}, pages = {385-391}, pmid = {5871065}, issn = {0006-3150}, mesh = {Child ; Female ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Italy ; Male ; }, }
@article {pmid5325060, year = {1965}, author = {McEwen, OC}, title = {Joseph Jay Bunim 1906-1964.}, journal = {Transactions of the Association of American Physicians}, volume = {78}, number = {}, pages = {13-14}, pmid = {5325060}, issn = {0066-9458}, mesh = {History of Medicine ; }, }
@article {pmid5882170, year = {1964}, author = {Rimondini, R and Zanibelli, G}, title = {[Correlations between the results of Raven's progressive matrices, of the Wechsler-Bellevue scale and of color naming in a group of 100 young persons in Cremona Province].}, journal = {Bollettino - Societa medico chirurgica Cremona}, volume = {18}, number = {4}, pages = {681-684}, pmid = {5882170}, issn = {0037-8852}, mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; *Intelligence Tests ; Italy ; Male ; *Psychological Tests ; }, }